New releases this week: Soul

Review: France's faves Battle Weapons deliver two heady new edits, only for those ready. On the A comes an ingenious, probably never-done-before, almost laughably why-hasn't-anyone-else-ever-thought-of-this-until-now breakbeat rendition of Peter Bjorn & John's 'The Young Folks'. To be frank, they've not done much besides beef up the backbeat a little, but a simple sprucing up is sometimes all a tune needs. On the flip comes a phattened version of 'Forgot About Dre' mashed up with the Azzido Da Bass UK garage classic 'Dooms Night', also produced to hilariously, surreally arresting effect.

Review: The Invitations have roots tracing back to the mid-60s and saw various lead singers take the mic until Lew Kirton joined in 1973. Kirton's vocals grace both 'Look On The Good Side' and 'They Say The Girl's Crazy' from 1974 which are now reissued for the first time. Originally released on Silver Blue Records, a label founded by songwriter and producer Joel Diamond, these tracks were arranged and co-produced by Bobby Martin in Philadelphia and boast the unmistakable Philly Sound. Kirton later departed for a successful solo career, notably remembered for hits like 'Heaven In The Afternoon' but this reissue brings forth a timeless slice of soul history.

Review: Nick and Astro, known collectively as Potatohead People, join forces once again on a tantalising teaser 7" from their upcoming album, Eat Your Heart Out'. Featured on 'Paradise' is the highly hyped Canadian artist Diamond Cafe, whose velvety vocals grace this early 80s-inspired blend of digital sex funk that will remind you of Sade, El Debarge, and Prefab Sprout. Describing his music as "bathing in a cloud of honey on a very foggy night," Diamond Cafe's performance is nothing short of magic here. On the flipside, Nick Wisdom puts his spin on the track, infusing it with dub elements and enhancing the bassline.

Review: Say She She is the psychedelic soul group from Brooklyn that's exploded onto the scene since their debut in 2019. Receiving critical acclaim for their two albums to date, and the pleasure of touring Europe and North America, the Nile Rodgers-inspired female trio even got a video message of approval from the legend himself. Authentic and organic are two words that fit the classically trained troupe to a tea and, in the great soul tradition, covers are a necessity. Jim Spencer's 1979 attempt at foraying into disco 'Wrap Myself Up in Your Love' wasn't received amazingly at the time, but thanks to the adoration of archive label The Numero Group, the song has seen a resurgence in covers and fans. The original vocal is zany and expressive against some jangly funk guitars, whilst Say She She's rendition hones in on the sultry aspect of the track. Guitars are muted down to transform the song into a lovemaking slow jam, wind passages are introduced and the vocal is subtly powerful and sexy. This 7" contains both Spencer's original track and the interpretation by the trio, pressed on white vinyl.

Review: Brooklyn-based psychedelic soul group Say She She have exploded onto the scene since their debut in 2019. Receiving critical acclaim for their two albums to date, and multiple TV performances, the Nile Rodgers-inspired female trio even got a video message of approval from the legend himself. Organic and authentic are two words that fit the classically trained troupe to a tea and, in the great soul tradition, covers are a necessity. Jim Spencer's 1979 track 'Wrap Myself Up in Your Love' didn't get much attention at the time - his attempt at doing disco wasn't well received - but thanks to the adoration of archive label The Numero Group, the song has seen a resurgence in covers and fans. The original vocal is expressive and powerful against some jangly funk guitars, whilst Say She She's rendition hones in on the sultry aspect of the track. Guitars are muted down to transform the song into a lovemaking slow jam, wind passages are introduced and the vocal is subtly powerful and sexy. This single has both Say She She's cover - as well as the original - on a 7" disc.

Review: Brazilian artist Lucas Arruda, is fast becoming a regarded figure in the Latin scene. 'Ominira' is his latest long player that once again, finds a home on the French label Favorite Recordings. An album full of rich sounding musical textures that cross boundaries and bridge many genres such as Latin, soul, house, jazz and pop. The vibrant summer jams 'The Bravest Heart' and 'Novos Planos' are A-side standouts that will surely excite veteran and new listeners alike, who are into World music. '4:28' and 'The Mountain' start the second side with some catchy instrumentals that give off memorable beachy 70s vibes. ' Projecoes' closes the album with one of the most soulful performances of the album. All and all, you have a wonderful sounding jazzy grooved piece that ups the expectation of what a Latin jazz album can be. Cafe Del Mar approved!

Review: The self-titled debut record from South Carolina soul septet The Entertainers first dropped in 1980 and laid claim to a distinctive quirkiness. The kernel of the album's success was its unabashed choice of subject matter - sexual attraction - which when combined with its bright mixes and burstingly clear compositions, helped propel the band out from their local beach scene roots and into increasing interstate acclaim. With members Earl Dawkins on vocals, Hugh "Tuff" Blanton on bass, Richard Robertson on trumpet andzz flugelhorn, Ric Sanders on keyboards, Danny Baker on guitar, Marc Goins on drums and John Franklin on trombone, the Entertainers did nothing but.

Review: Wah Wah welcome the return of multi-talented Norwegian producer Espen Horne, following a 24 year hiatus. Sometimes, such resurfacings must happen - even after such long periods of time - if only to reaffirm the round-robin integrity of the label. The Anatomy Of Serene Eloquence is thus the logical, LP-form follow-up to 1999's acid jazz single/EP 'Magnetica', which, though released only to furtive acclaim, launched the label's reputation as a pusher of delights. This new one, however, makes for a remarkably different turn in sound, coming as a full-length of ambient, tremolo-ing and glistening jazz-funk verging on hip-hop (though certainly cut from the same cloth as 'Magnetica'). Vocalists and instrumentalists such as Olav Wollo, Faye Houston and Aich are kept firmly in tow, squeezing the icing onto an already spongy, delicious sonic gateau.

Review: Patrice Rushen's Remind Me: The Classic Elektra Recordings 1978-1984 celebrates the unmatched talent of a jazz and r&b legend whose influence extends far beyond her chart success. Rushen's songs, including hits like 'Forget Me Nots' and 'Haven't You Heard,' have left an indelible mark on popular music, with countless artists sampling her work. Despite facing criticism and lackluster label support, Rushen's crossover into sophisticated urban pop paved the way for future R&B and hip-hop hits. This compilation shows Rushen's talents as a musician and arranger, with her production providing the building blocks for decades of musical innovation. Tracks like 'Givin' It Up Is Givin' Up' and 'Remind Me' highlight Rushen's electrifying performances and innovative sound. Rushen's timeless music remains as relevant and influential as ever, cementing her status as a true icon of musical innovation and creativity.

Review: Leon Bridges and Keite Young's rendition of 'Like A Ship' is a soulful masterpiece that pays homage to Pastor T.L. Barrett's gospel classic while adding a fresh Southern soul twist. Bridges' velvety vocals, combined with Young's passionate delivery and the stirring gospel choir, create a deeply moving musical experience. The track's heartfelt lyrics and uplifting melodies transport listeners to the heart of a joyous Sunday service, evoking a sense of spiritual renewal and celebration. With its classy organ solo and soul-stirring harmonies, this collaboration showcases the timeless power of gospel music while reaffirming Bridges and Young's status as rising stars in the world of soul and t&b.

Review: Ronnie April's Positive Energy's 'Snowflake' is a legendary release that has achieved mythical status within the jazzdance scene. Originally pressed on Ronnie's own Jude imprint and distributed locally with limited success, this impossibly rare gem has become a coveted holy grail for collectors. The track's infectious groove and captivating melody have solidified its place as a timeless classic, even spawning bootleg copies due to its scarcity. Beyond its rarity, the music itself is truly exceptional, showcasing Ronnie April's immense talent as a composer, arranger, and multi-instrumentalist. With a career that boasts collaborations with jazz luminaries such as Tito Puente, Louis Armstrong, and Lionel Hampton, 'Snowflake' stands as a testament to April's enduring musical legacy. The album continues from there, highlights including the excellent upbeat gem 'Dancer's Theme' and the beautiful haunting 'A Ballad For Sir James' that really exemplify that variety of great Soul music here.