Funk / Reissue Recommendations May 2011

Review: In afrobeat circles, Ghanaian highlife guitarist Ebo Taylor has long been regarded as one of the scene's most undervalued talents. During his golden period during the 1970s, Taylor was responsible for some landmark recordings - not just as an artist, but composer, arranger and producer. This comprehensive set from serial crate-diggers Strut revisits that fertile period, gathering together the best of Taylor's solo, collaborative and production work. For those with a passing interest in afrobeat and highlife, it's near-essential. Highlights come thick and fast, from the strangely spaced-out grooves of "Peace On Earth" and lazy afro jazz-funk of "Ohiana Sua Efir" to the epic American R&B stylings of "Aba Yaa".

Review: ** Repress for the breaks dons ** The long awaited new Visioneers Limited Edition 45 produced by Marc Mac of 4hero is here at last on BBE offshoot Omniverse. No messin' here as Visioneers go straight for the funk jugular with two dope versions. On the A-Side a version of The Shadows classic ''Apache'' gets flipped by Visioneers remake of Johnny Pate's B-Boy bomb "Shaft In Africa". Heavy horns and bongos aplenty - this is just wanted the doctor ordered. It's limited, it's hot, go get it!

Review: The mighty Jazzman continues its soulful reissue crusade with a fine release on the Soul 7 sub-label with two tracks plucked from the reissued Flat Foot Hustlin' album. "I Like Your Stuff" has jangly guitar and a summery feel good chorus vibe - very nice! On the flipside "Flat Foot Hustlin" has a more aggressive urban soulful funk appeal with jazzy touches aplenty. Nothing short of essential.

Review: The second release from Timmion offshoot Mit Wit comes from Soul La Das, who have been playing for many years - and composed many songs - but this is their first commercial dinked 45 release. "Movin' & Groovin" Parts 1 & 2 boast a smouldering Hammond organ offset by southern styled guitar, the result being a meaningful and thoughtful funk instrumental. This one needs a couple of listens to hook you in, but rest assured this release is brimming with raw quality.