Sdban Belguim Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Traditionally, Dutch jazz has not been that celebrated globally, despite the Netherlands producing some terrific performers and must-check recordings. Hip Holland does its best to set the record straight, offering up an impressive selection of 'modern jazz' gems recorded in the Netherlands between 1950 and 1970. It's an entertaining and eye-opening selection all told, with our picks of a very strong bunch including the soft-lit shuffle of The Diamond Five's 'Amsterdam Blues', the classic Blue Note flavours of The Jacob Brothers' 'Two Brothers', the bluesy brilliance of 'Golden Eaarings' by Martin Beenen and His Orchestra (where singer Sandy Fort supplies a sublime lead vocal) and the up-tempo hedonism of 'Sing Sing Sing' by the fabulously named Leddy Wessel With Jack Van Poll and His Tree-Oh.

Review: A Special Radio: TV Record No 23 is a deep dive into the eclectic world of Belgian radio and TV music from the 1980s and is exactly the sort of esoteric record that we nerdish collectors fawn over owning. Arriving on limited transparent yellow vinyl, it features a diverse selection of tracks ranging from funk and jazz to synth-pop and electronic experimentation. Each song is a snapshot of the vibrant and innovative music scene that thrived during that era and comes with some nice infectious grooves, catchy melodies, and nostalgic charm that all serve as a delightful homage to the golden age of Belgian broadcasting. It's a must-have for those who seek out hidden gems and forgotten treasures.