Where Are You Coming From (Jane Weaver rework) (4:05)
Out From Under (Emperor Machine extended rework) (8:49)
We All Need (Jezebell Ghost Train mix) (5:47)
Review: Perhaps one of the most important bands to come out of Manchester ever. Up there with Joy Division, their funky post-punk is the very essence of that genre and possibly why a lot of bands like to call themselves post-punk. They're just wishing they sound as good as A Certain Ratio. For this latest release, the follow-up to their album It All Comes Down To This, they've reworked songs from said album - sensationally - and released a Christmas single. 'Now And Laughter' is described as an ode to "the unsung heroes that are on hand when the pressures of the festivities can become too much to bear." It's awash with sumptuous echoing guitar, a somber lead vocal which makes you want to raise your lighter and gently sway. There's a hint of David Bowie in there and the lyrics appear genuinely emotional and appreciative. This is a song of blissful poignance that can help remind us of what really matters in life as it captures a sense of vulnerability and awe in the magic of the moment.
Review: Three standout tracks from Dave Lee's 2023 album Metamorphosis - which he dropped under his AC Soul Symphony alias - now get pulled apart and reworked by the one and only Dub-disco king Ray Mang. First comes 'It's Got To Be Love' with its super funky and bubbly bass and lush string elegance, then he flips 'Tradewinds' into a deeper, still lush and lavish instrumental disco gem that is seductive and warm for the winter months. Last but not least, 'K-Jee' brings an infectious groove to the dance floor with a little more percussive energy and upbeat bounce - but again swooning strings are the icing on the cake. All three of these are classy and sophisticated reworks from the one and only Mang.
Kidz (Elena Colombi's Are The Kids Alright remix) (6:14)
Review: This is the debut EP from DJ, producer and multidisciplinary artist Sol Leon under the moniker aka-Sol. It marks years of creative evolution and finds him blending vibrant energy with raw emotion across three tracks. aka-Sol channels a psychedelic edge into the punk roots of electronic music here by using modular synths and analogue textures to challenge modern club norms and genre boundaries. It results in a fearless offering that is equal parts love letter and provocation and invites headbanging and liberation on the dancefloor. A remix by Osare! Editions' Elena Colombi completes the EP, with experimental, post-punk and club intersections.
Review: MF TEEN: Your Concurrence In The Above Is Assumed sees Melbourne's The Pro-Teens, led by Hudson Whitlock, tackle the vast world of MF DOOM's musical legacy. With their instrumental soul approach, they reinterpret iconic tracks like 'Doomsday' and deeper cuts such as 'The Gas Face,' blending boom-bap rhythms with cinematic flair. From the lush soundscapes to the gritty funk, The Pro-Teens capture the essence of DOOM's discography. Available on standard vinyl, this release is an essential for both MF DOOM enthusiasts and fans of leftfield instrumental music, preserving the late legend's influence with their unique touch.
Review: Italian disco DJ and producer Corrado Alunni shares his latest nu-disco soul nostrum, 'Make It Feel More', which, owing to the title, is an EP whose aim is to enliven the largely electronic and mechanistic bent of nu-disco with a good bit of live-recorded pizzazz. Such is heard on the title track, which moves naturally through both augmented and diminished electric piano cadences, not to mention slap basses, to be poised against the beats. Then 'Perfect Direction' brings the boughed basses and disco hits to a new layer of chill; with this, and the ensuing 'Keep Moving', it feels as if we've kept finding new rooms, in which new room contains a new type of hors d'oeuvre to try. 'The Beat Goes On' closes on a snappier and vinyl-driven vexation, perfect for the snakier kind of dancer.
Review: Army of God's 'Salvation'' back in 2012 soon became a cult coldwave cut. It was the one and only release by the pair of Aroy Dee and Miss Jagroe... until now. More than ten years on they are back with 'Endless Skies' which is a new EP full of analogue warmth, signature synth designs and aching strings. Of course, Jagroe's unique voice features and brings extra allure to the beats. Aroy Dee steps up with an edit of the title cut and lays in some more form drums and pairs back the vocals to make things even darker. On the flip you'll find the throbbing bass and off-kilter keys of 'Fear the Night' with a dark version going even more into the shady unknown.
Review: The overdetermination of many sources of inspiration fed the making of this new EP by Asymmetrical (Giovanni Inglese), whose regular top-ups for the label have earned him his very own catalogue number reservation, this one coming as no exception. Said inspirations include: the digit 7, elevated to the status of Jim Carrey's number 23; a sticker glimpsed in a bathroom in a north-west Rome nightclub; and a long gestation of studio sessions, committed to between 2018 and 2020. The result was a slurrying EBM release of the coldest affect, consisting largely of all-consuming licky bass, mussitating monologues ('Estetica Della Notte' tells the tale of assuming nocturnal form while under the domed hoardings of Rome's famous Pantheon) and subtly vampiric overtones ('Porno Incubo').
Review: The Stamp label is up to its 18th outing here and once again it is an irresistible coming together of club-ready grooves with well-chosen and well-worked samples. First up the essence of one of George Benson's most iconic cuts gets reworked into a smooth house beat with the guitar kicks, vocal inflections, claps and melodies all getting you up on your toes on 'Night' (dub). 'New York To Rio' then brings some dusty deep house grooves and impassioned vocals for a more upbeat kinda party. Hand-stamped white label business this, so do not hang about.
Review: Fresh from inspiring the global disco community with a tasty debut 7", Portuguese duo the Bam Jam band (AKA Pedro Teneiro and Sergio Alves) return with a similarly impressive sequel. A-side 'Keepin' On' is a genuinely killer workout - a low-slung bass guitar-propelled chunk of revivalist dancefloor disco-jazz rich in sustained organ chords, funky Clavinet licks and restless, Latin-influenced piano riffs and solos. The duo's love of memorable basslines comes to the fore once more on 'Something About Love', a more languid, picturesque and bittersweet affair in which slow, eyes-closed piano patterns and squelchy synths stretch out across a relaxed mid-tempo groove. An artist to watch in 2025 for sure.
Review: Bongo Joe and Sofa Records' third instalment of the Maghreb K7 Club Disco Single series dives deep into Algeria's vibrant 1980s scene, offering four tracks that shine a light on the region's overlooked gems. The A-side is led by two irresistible pop-boogie-funk tracks from Khaled Barkat: 'Galouli Enshara' and 'Zourini'. Self-taught and self-produced in 1983, Barkat's music was a hit at the time but got overshadowed by the rising tide of rai. His dynamic collaboration with Yazid Fentazi, Redouane Ayoub, and Mhenni Benlala resulted in a sound that blends infectious grooves with local flair. Now, for the first time, these tracks are on vinyl, offering fresh ears the chance to rediscover a key player in Algeria's pop history. Cheb Tati takes over on the B-side with 'Dub El Hammam', a heavyweight dub number that showcases his range as a rai vocalist. Tati was flown to London in 1989 to work with dub pioneer Denis Bovell, and this track is a standout from their sessions, merging the pulsating rhythms of reggae with a distinctly North African flavour. Closing out the release is the Kabyle band Asif, whose only known recording, 'Tafsut', serves as a fitting finale. Formed by three brothers in Lille during the late 70s, this beautifully crafted pop-boogie track captures the band's unique sound, bringing a sense of nostalgia and triumph to the collection.
Review: Sundries' Disco Goodies series, which rounds up the best of the label's digital releases and presents them on multi-artist EPs, reaches its fourth instalment. It hits home hard from the start, where Berobreo's 'Soul Driven Dynamics' provides an attractive mix of 1970s orchestral soul samples and rubbery deep house beats. Experienced re-editor Oldchap brings the goods with a lightly tooled-up and beefed-up rework of an orchestra-sporting disco gem ('Coloridos'), before X Gets The Crest delivers a percussive, hot-stepping and filter-smothered re-wire of a much-loved Cymande classic ('Still Come Home'). Over on side B, Alexny's heavy disco-funk re-edit ('People Says') is joined by a hazy and horn-heavy revision courtesy of Sould Out ('City Gal') and the pitched-up disco loop-funk of 'Since You Came' by Workerz.
Don't You Want My Love (vocal extended mix) (7:39)
Don't You Want My Love (dub mix) (7:31)
Don't You Want My Love (The Coney Island Rhythm Band remix) (6:45)
Don't You Want My Love (Jerk Boy remix) (7:18)
Review: Tinted Records offer up the latest new single by LA-based funky pop house producer Birdee. A resident of the likes of Groove Culture and Body Heat among many other hot label names, Birdee delivers big newness on this stratospheric uplifter, replete with surrounded fingerclick claps and a serious vocal line. Three new mixes also feature, with a new dub mix on the A2, as well as a nighttime caban-bound flip by The Coney Island Rhythm Band on the B-side, as well as a closing piano weapon version by Jerk Boy.
Review: Black Truffle is back and serving up a delicious four-course musical meal that traverses vintage disco styles while blending in jazz-funk and Latin influences. Black Truffle has long since proven his ability to serve up fine reinterpretations of hidden 70s gems and for preserving the original essence while adding his own flair. 'Disco Meringue' kicks off this latest gem with a crisp, piano-driven Latin vibe ideal for mixing between disco, Latin and deep house. 'Drum Tartar' is a percussion-driven exploration of jazz-funk and Bossa-Nova featuring a powerful drum break. 'Consomme' then delivers a high-energy dancefloor banger with pulsing percussion, organ riffs and sax solos and finally 'Souffle' concludes with a funky big-band jazz number.
Lady, Lady, Lady (Are You Crazy For Me) (instrumental) (3:24)
Lady, Lady, Lady (Are You Crazy For Me) (feat Mel Hayes - vocal) (4:10)
Review: The Boogie Man Orchestra's 'Lady, Lady, Lady (Are You Crazy For Me)' is a hidden gem in the soulful disco world but it won't stay that way now it is getting this new reissue. It's one of those jams with an impossibly smooth, seductive groove that embodies the essence of 70s funk and soul. The lush arrangements are accompanied by silky vocals and tight instrumentation to make for a perfect balance of upbeat energy and romantic charm. Add in the rich brass sections and driving bassline and you have a perfect example of the orchestral disco sound that we all still love so much.
Review: Washington, D.C. label People's Potential Unlimited (PPU) snub the usual boundaries put upon most entities in dance music, attesting instead to the limitlessness of human musical potential. Here they set another example of such accumulative panache with 'Turn It Out', the very latest vinyl EP from roster producer Bravuda, hailing from the Russian Federation. 'Turn It Out' is Bravuda's re-recording of a demo also recorded for PPU by Terry Patton and Robbie M, entitled 'Tri-Fire'; Bravuda's version is a slimy, windowlicking electro-funk Janus mask, as 'Turn It Out' and its underside '1984' both bring almost equally grumbly and wily sleights of hand, their tiny room reverbs and crushed, sculpted piano chords being of special note.
Review: This is an new EP in a series of edits that takes four obscure gems from the world of disco and flips them into absolute bangers for Das who want to make an impact. 'Maledetta Panna' is retro-future 80s pop and disco with cold analogue drums, then 'Voglio Panna' brings some loose-limbed percussive and funky vibes, 'Ancora Panna' has an Afro feel next to some lush little melodic sequences and smeared, widescreen chords. 'Tanta Panna' closes with some well known chords from Gloria Estefan with all new and impactful drums.
Review: 'Dance With Me' is a real blast from the past. First released in 1977 via his homestead T.K. Records, 'Dance With Me' was American disco producer and performer Peter Brown's sophomore record, chronologically second only to his breakout career-definer hit, 'Do Ya Wanna Get Funky With Me'. Here, however, a contemporary glut of DJ and remixing experience, embodied in human form, is heard lent to the record by way of one Dr. Packer. Packer's commitment to stylish remixes makes up the bulk of his career; here he adds an extra garland to the totem, laying down two floor-ready remixes, one standard-length, one extended, of Brown's enduring classic.
I Specialize In Love (Le Disco instrumental mix) (6:27)
Review: Sharon Brown's 'I Specialize In Love' hit the dancefloors hard when it dropped in March 1982, becoming an essential anthem of the early 80s club scene. Released on New York's Profile Records, it didn't take long for the track to catch fire. The song, which was Brown's debut, was produced by Eddie O'Loughliniwho later went on to found Next Plateau, a label that would become a key player in the world of club music. Brown, whose uncle is the legendary songwriter Phil Medley, delivered a track that dominated dance charts for weeks, holding onto the number two spot on the US Hot Dance Club Play chart for three weeks straight. 'I Specialize In Love' wasn't just a local hitiit became a global sensation, charting in the UK and making its way into the Dutch Top 15, proving its international appeal. Over time, the track has seen various reworks, with the 90s seeing Ben Liebrand putting his spin on it through his Classic Rework and a DJ Mix that kept the original's essence but brought it up to date for a new generation of clubbers. Now, with the release of the Ben Liebrand Le Disco Mixes, the track gets yet another revival. From the opening filtered kick drum to the irresistible bassline, this mix is a party-starter of the highest order, designed to set the dancefloor alight. Six and a half minutes of pure disco bliss, this mix takes the original's infectious energy and dials it up, giving today's dancers exactly what they needia no-nonsense, funk-fuelled groove that nods to its roots while keeping things fresh for modern ears. It's a masterclass in how to take a classic and reimagine it without losing the magic that made it a hit in the first place.
Review: Serious deep house heads take note, this is a superb new EP that instantly fits in with your favourite classics by the likes of Moodymann and Theo Parrish. It comes from Dean Bryce, one of London's best-kept secrets, and he delivers his signature touch on this latest release for Extra Soul Perception. Known as the founder of Technicolour Records-home to early releases from Peggy Gou, Actress, and the breakout Barry Can't Swim-Dean has a reputation that speaks for itself. This record sees him tapping into his re-edit collection to bring us three timeless tracks. The much-loved 'H.E.R.' makes a triumphant return next to two gems 'TEAZE' and 'Winner' on the flip side. Crucial.
Review: Erin Buku's standout track 'See You Shine' gets a special remix treatment from Soundway Records' affiliate SAI GALAXY, now available as a limited edition 12". A perfect fusion of styles, this remix infuses the original's soulful charm with SAI GALAXY's vibrant production flair. Fans of Lord Echo, Fat Freddy's Drop and Masters At Work will feel right at home with this.
Keni Burke - "Risin' To The Top" (A Mike Maurro mix) (8:50)
Evelyn Champagne King - "I'm In Love" (A Mike Maurro mix) (9:30)
Review: Two legendary boogie anthems of the 80s are getting a fresh spin, with Mike Maurro offering new takes on Keni Burke's 'Risin' to the Top' and Evelyn 'Champagne' King's 'I'm In Love'. Set to drop via RCA on 12" vinyl, these remixes breathe new life into two classics that defined an era. Burke's 'Risin' to the Top', first released in 1982 on his album Changes, remains one of his most enduring tracks. It's a song that has been sampled across genres, from hip-hop to r&b, by the likes of Mary J. Blige and LL Cool J. Maurro's remix stays true to the original, adding subtle guitar riffs and an extended rhythm section, while preserving the song's chilled-out vibe. The result is a refined version that respects the sensual groove that made it such a standout. On the flip side, Maurro turns his attention to Evelyn 'Champagne' King's 1981 hit 'I'm In Love'. Originally a high-energy singalong anthem, this remix stays close to the spirit of the track but pushes the production forward. King's uplifting vocals remain the focal point, but with Maurro's touch, the track feels revitalised, with a polished mix that's ready to captivate the dancefloor once again. Both tracks offer a reminder of just how timeless this era of boogie and disco remains, with Maurro's remixes ensuring they sound as fresh today as they did decades ago. Perfect for DJs looking to inject some classic charm into their sets, these re-releases will no doubt reignite the love for these iconic tunes, proving once more that great music never goes out of style.
Review: Red Laser Records continue their stellar form with another knockout release, blending Manctalo fire from old hands and fresh faces alike. Frank Butters opens the EP with The Call Of The Wild, a dazzling blast of crystalline synths, thunderous bass, and cosmic effects that showcase his forward-thinking production skills. Bob Swans delivers 'Bodyform4U', a dreamy arpeggiated groove that builds an uplifting, futuristic atmosphere, perfect for igniting the dancefloor. Lone Saxon switches things up with 'Hypersleep' a breakbeat-infused piano gem that oozes nostalgic charm, before Franz Scala and Il Bosco finish strong with Webo, a late-night, tension-filled Manctalo banger.
Robert Byrne - "Do You Wanna Make Some Love" (previously unreleased) (2:52)
Review: Byrne and Barnes 'Love You Out Of Your Mind',first released in 1981, epitomises the smooth blend of soft rock and AOR during its peak era. Featured on the album An Eye For An Eye, this track marked a unique collaboration between the duo, both of whom would later contribute to the success of artists like Earth, Wind & Fire, Patti Austin, and Phil Collins. The song showcases the signature AOR sound, merging jazzy elements with soulful grooves, giving it a timeless WestCoast flair. Now, for the first time, this classic is getting the 7" single treatment, backed by an exclusive, never-before-heard track from Byrne's archives. 'Do You Wanna Make Some Love', also rooted in AOR and WestCoast vibes, flirts with Boogie and Disco influences, offering a fresh yet nostalgic sound. This newly unearthed gem, found by the original executive producer, is a great B-side addition. Despite being somewhat overlooked in its time, Byrne & Barnes' music has built a dedicated following over the decades. This reissue brings their sophisticated sound back into the spotlight, ready to win over another generation of music lovers.
Review: Don Carlos should by now be known to most house music crate-ologists as Carlo Troja from Verase, Italy -not Euvin Spencer from Kingston town. Alas, confusion still runs rampant over the ambiguity surrounding the Don Carlos name; if only they'd heard just how great this new EP from the former North Italian nuff-sayer truly was, they'd never forget the difference, of course! 'Italian Paradise' is a fresh, still dripping-wet house EP out via Groove Culture; its lightweight organ triplets, electric piano smears, and lens-fogged sunglass strings are what makes it *it*: a more than suitable release for hammock skygazing and/or wooly garment shedding.
Last Night (feat Harriet Brown - MAD vocal mix) (7:11)
Last Night (6:27)
Phone Sexting (5:23)
New Life (5:19)
Review: One-man dance music production line Tom Carruthers - a regular contributor to L.I.E.S and the man behind the admirable Nonstop Rhythm label - makes his bow on Make a Dance's M.A.D imprint. Fittingly, the fast-rising duo kick things off with their take on title track 'Last Night', delivering a vintage-sounding house cut featuring sublime lead vocals from Harriet Brown that sits somewhere between Frankie Knuckles' turn-of-the-90s productions and Larry Heard's late 80s deep house jams. Carruthers' gorgeous instrumental original mix follows. Over on side B, 'Phone Sexting' sees Carruthers blur the boundaries between proto-house and early Chicago jack tracks, while 'New Life' is a picturesque slab of deep techno loveliness.
Review: Casinoboy makes a triumphant return to Duca Bianco with a sparkling EP that once again shows his studio mastery. Previously featuring alongside luminaries like Rune Lindbaek and Khidja on a well-received compilation, Casinoboy's latest kicks off with 'Honesty' which is a blend of Balearic and breaks that brings a shuffle-and-wiggle experience with uplifting samples and an old-school UK rap edge. 'This Feeling' has a catchy Street Soul feel, while 'Searos' mixes up ambient sounds and Spanish Guitar to evoke the essence of the White Isle. Closing with 'Astral Go Go,' really pumps the party in ways only he knows how.
Review: Kendrick Lamar's 'King Kunta' and Kelis' 'Milkshake' hear an unlikely pairing on the perfunctorily named Edits series. The former track - some might agree its dust is still settling, as it was released in 2015 - sounds almost twice as lively here, its "oh, yes, you can, oh, yes you can!" ad-lib sounding about as squeezed as a hand-wrung lime steeped in its own juices and then dried out in Saharan heat. There's a diatonic, electric piano hook added on top too; Kelis' flip has a similar feel, mashing up the noughts teaser hit with a dash of easily identified r&b goodness - we're 99% sure you'll recognise the instrumental, its having also originated somewhere in the familiar fires of pop musical preeminence.
Review: Cetu Javu's 'Por Que?' gets a fresh release on vinyl from Blanco Y Negro and it's a proper nod to classic dance nostalgia. Side 1 kicks off with the extended mix of 'Por Que?,' a melodic, synth-heavy track packed with infectious grooves, followed by 'Don't Leave Me,' which keeps the energy high with its pulsating basslines and emotive vocals. Side 2 brings a remix of 'Por Que?' that adds a modern twist, alongside the original album version, perfect for fans craving that irresistible late 80s/early 90s dance vibe.
Review: Soanish mega-label Blanco Y Negro continues to reissue rather good, but frequently overlooked, gems from its vast archives. This one, from German-Spanish synth-pop band Cetu Javu, dates from 1992 and sees the combo combine their early Depeche Mode-esque vocals and synth sounds with nods to the more driving, peak-time ready sounds of European house music. That's best exemplified by the opening 'Remix' version of title track 'Dame Tu Mano', which also comes in the moody synth-pop style 'Extended Mix'. Over on the flip, we get the chiming melodies, mid-80s Pet Shop Boys grooves and Euro-dance bleeps of 'Una Mujer (remix)' and the Bobby Orlando-meets-Shep Pettibone fun of 'Tempo (remix)'.
Review: Cetu Javu's 'Dame Tu Mano' is something of a classic for lovers of early synth sounds and now it is back and reissued on grey marbled vinyl. Known for their blend of synthpop and Latin-inspired melodies, this track captures Cetu Javu's signature emotive style and irresistible sense of analogue rhythm. Originally a hit in the late 80s and early 90s, this fine single is a staple for fans of 80s beats and its great vocals also bring plenty of old-school vibes.
Review: Cetu Javu's iconic track 'Por Que?' (which as you probably can work out translates as why?) returns on a lovely grey marbled vinyl 12" courtesy of Blanco Y Negro Spain. A timeless classic from the late 80s and early 90s synth-pop and electronic scene, this single captures the band's signature blend of infectious melodies and emotive Spanish vocals. It's a fiery sound that is packed with melancholic undertones and driving rhythms that mean it has remained a dancefloor favourite for fans of vintage electronic sounds. This special edition offers a pristine homage to the era that takes you back in an instant.
Charlotte & Reinhard for WeCanDance - "To Be Free Again" (extended) (5:10)
Ollie Loudon - "LMT" (extended) (6:21)
Lily Ko - "Pure Rubber" (5:58)
Biancolato - "Resolution" (edit) (5:46)
Review: We're promised Mellow Magic and that's precisely what we get, across four tracks emerging from disparate corners of the globe but united in a common mission to provide beats that work on the more relaxed end of the dancefloor. Belgian duo Charlotte & Reinhard of Rheinzand fame kick things off with a slow motion Balearic version of a well known 80s MOR classic. Ollie Loudon's 'L.M.T.' finally makes it to vinyl after long being a secret weapon in Gratts' DJ sets, where handclaps and languid strumming meet a gentle but infectious groove. Flip it over for the more tracky affairs, as Japan's Lily Ko makes an impressive debut with 'Pure Rubber', an original mix of disco foundations and always snazzy but never showy 80s synth play. Melbourne's Biancolato finishes things off with understated deep house shuffling that adds just a touch jazzy keys and dreamy, wispy pads.
Review: Parisian label Cracki Records has once again collaborated with Hong Kong's Fauve Records, which is headed up by producer and DJ Romain FX, for another fine edition of the Make Italo Disco Great Again series. This is volume four and it comes after artists like COEO, Arash & Quasar and Mangabey made their amir in the past. This new one continues to showcase global talent and has artists from Ireland, Korea, Mexico, Germany and beyond each sharing their unique take on Italo disco. This volume includes dazzlers by Mystery Affair, Shubostar, Sara Miller, COLE, Maltitz and Romain FX who all impress.
Review: The Space Grapes return with a 12" EP from the Italian trio Collettivo Immaginario which is made up of LA-based drummer Tommaso Cappellato, pianist Alberto Lincetto and bassist Nicolo Masetto. Known for their experimental fusion of eclectic jazz, funk, downtempo beats and vintage Italian library music, this release marks a fine exploration of Italian vocals. The A-side, 'Luce' features a vibrant mix of 80s jazz-funk and boogie in an extended, energetic version. On the B-side, 'Luna Gioia' presents a contemporary take on downtempo Brazilian funk and slow disco complemented by an instrumental version that highlights the music's intrinsic beauty.
Review: 'Back For More"' by Cool Million stands out as a true Neo-Boogie classic. Originally released in 2010, this infectious dancefloor anthem has become a coveted gem among DJs and collectors, with original pressings fetching remarkable prices due to its limited run of just 1,000 copies. Featuring the iconic vocals of Eugene Wilde, the title track is a soulful synth funk jam that continues to dominate playlists worldwide. The flipside offers another smooth midtempo delight featuring DeeDee alongside Wilde, further showcasing the duo's knack for crafting irresistible grooves. Now, in 2024, Cool Million is set to reintroduce their signature sound with new recordings, while simultaneously delighting fans with a limited re-release of the original pressing. This is an essential addition for any serious vinyl collector or DJ looking to elevate their sets.
Review: Reissued from the original Sedsoul 7" first laid down in 2010, and then a further digital 'House Session' edition in 2015, Cool Million and Eugene Wild are again 'Back For More'. Clearly, the Danish-German production duo, when in collaborative cahoots with r&b singer Wilde, are prone to redound to milking the dance for all it's worth; we gather that for as long as this tune is out, they'll always want their seconds and thirds, else they wouldn't eat, so to speak. So too does this third edition of the stellar, four-alt-mix 'Back For More' prove just as funky as it did at the moment of its original release fourteen years ago; Wilde rides the groove with serious flux, assuring the fulfilling of said prophesied return against spiccato strings and a curvaceous synth bass. There's even a karaoke version on there too, just in case you'd like to flaunt your underground soul intel at your next knees-up.
Review: Marc Cotterell's 'Feel The Groove' EP is a vibrant, disco-infused collection that merges classic grooves with modern production. The title track, 'Feel The Groove', is a light, fun disco gem, capturing a funky 70s mood with a fresh UK garage twist and that xylophone magic touch. 'Get It Right' takes the funk further, building up to a filtered disco crescendo that's perfect for late-night floors, oozing with energy and sleek edits. On the flip side, 'My Groove' offers a deeper vibe, giving the EP a well-rounded feel with its rich bassline and smooth production. Finally, 'Work Me' is catchy and playful, bringing a polished sound that keeps the rhythm flowing. Altogether, 'Feel The Groove' is a solid pick for those craving both nostalgic and modern dancefloor moments.
Review: REPRESS ALERT!: Cruise Music marks its tenth EP by serving up what it says are "secret funky house weapons" and there isn't much wrong with their description. Danny Cruz kicks off with 'Shoulda Been You' which rides on smooth grooves and has gentle synth waves breaking over the beats as heartfelt vocal sounds rise out of the mix. Mark Funk's 'True Lies' brings a classic 90s vocal sample to a non-stop soul beat and the B-side has got Dirty Disco Stars going big and funky and glorious on 'Look Up' then Mirko & Meex Re-touch 'Young Hearts' .
Review: Legofunk's 12" series is back in action with this fantastic two-track EP from Da Lukas and Massimilliano Troiani. Extending outwards from Afrobeat and into sunny house dance-realms, 'Voodoo Bongos' comprises 'Bad Duna' and 'Afro Panda', the first of which exorcises any traces of bad juju with a righteous, shimmying shindig, through hand-drummed ascensions and chanted revelations against solid kicks. The sax line over and above predominates, though at times it blends back into the ensconcing euphony, at which point a retrofusion of white noise fallers and jaunty male verses displace the limelight. 'Afro Panda' moves similarly, unveiling another carnivorous piebald prance.
Review: Dandy was the alias of choice of Italian singer Alessandre Persone, who collaborated with a string of producers to craft Hi-NRG and 'Eurobeat'-powered synth-pop hits between 1987-91. 'For Your Heart' dates from 1989. Rooted in the kind of sing-along, Hi-NRG pop pioneered by Bobby Orlando but developed commercially by Stock, Aitiken and Waterman, the song is a genuine earworm and comes complete with weighty, arpeggio-driven bass, echoing drum fills and classic Italo-disco style stabs. The killer version is the EP leading, extended 'Mix version', though plenty will also reach for the jaunty and heavy instrumental take. The short bonus 'MYOM version' is a DJ tool that cycles through various riffs and echoing vocal snippets.
Review: In 1977 in Portland, writer Ron Stassens assembled members of Pleasure and Transport around Slickaphonic frontman Milton Davis and the result was an album's worth of amazingly soulful disco-funk, re-released in July 2023 under the Albina Music Trust label... However, here for the first time ever, on Soul7/Jazzman records' picture sleeved 7" 45, Milton Davis returns home in this most apt of formats, on only 500 numbered copies with the stand out 'Headed For The Disco'. A gorgeously sweet solid gold soul track that ventures into jazz funk at the beautifully timed electric guitar and organ breaks where the 'get down' is inevitable but satisfyingly returns to the repetitive refrains of the melody. Joyously extending what disco truly means, be that a hustle or a step back, here the breadth of this uplifting genre is celebrated, concluding in a lush decrescendo 'aaaahhhh...'. Add this to the more mid-tempo classically soulful smoochy B-side 'All I Want To Do' and you won't want to hang around, as Soul 7/Jazzman singles whilst applauding rarer grooves notoriously become collectables in themselves.
Review: Devando's Don't Trust A Man (With No Vices) brings a fusion of hip-hop, funk and soul with electro and boogie influences. Part 1 on the A-side delivers infectious fun funk vibes, featuring electro elements and a vocoder-generated robotic voice that adds a playful edge. The track is driven by a captivating synthesiser lead and complemented by great organ sounds, creating an irresistible groove that keeps listeners moving. On the flip there's a different take on the theme, presenting more of a dub version with an alternate twist. While retaining some vocals, this version leans more towards instrumental elements, allowing the music itself to take centre stage.
Review: Arthur Russell's "Kiss Me Again," originally released in 1978, is a defining moment in disco's evolution, marking a pivotal collaboration between Russell and Nicky Siano. The reissue by Week-End Records offers a fresh look at this influential track, remastered from the original tapes and accompanied by insightful liner notes from notable figures like David Byrne and Nicky Siano. This reissue captures the essence of Russell's groundbreaking work. The 12" single showcases the extended mix, reflecting the intricate production process where Russell's vision was brought to life. His unique approach to recordingimelding diverse instruments and unconventional techniquesiresulted in a rich, layered sound that defied traditional recording practices. Siano's input was equally crucial; his first-ever production from scratch was instrumental in shaping the track's iconic status. The band, featuring Wilbur Bascomb, Allan Schwartzberg, and other prominent musicians, infused the project with a dynamic energy, making the track a staple of its era. The new edition highlights Russell's innovative spirit and the collaborative magic that defined his work with Siano. It serves as a testament to the track's enduring appeal and its impact on the disco genre, ensuring that 'Kiss Me Again' remains a cornerstone of its era.
Review: Here we have a new Disco Combine ready to plough the proverbial disco fields. This time Dave Lee harvests some disco/dunk gold with his mix of 'Dancin' For Your Love', a foot stompin' Rod Temperton style dancefloor rocket filled with soaring strings, rippling piano, vocal harmonies and killer bass action. Backed up by a cosmic Moog dub which doubles down on the delays and synths. On the flip Dave doths his cap to mid 80s NYC for some serious proto house biz. Brimming with detuned cowbells, house basslines & proggy synth arpeggios under a Colonel Abrams-ish vocal. Think Serious Intention meeting Visual in Cultural Vibe's garage.
Review: 'Vision Of Love' is a Euro-disco gem released initially in 1987 by DJ's Project, a supergroup made up of two core members, Hamburg's Mike Mareen and Italian singer Silvano Pulignano. Their third single landed them conveniently in the laps of long-runners ZYX Records, whose continual activity in the retro Italo reissues game is the best reason one can have for a 2024 reissue. This new 12" version stays true to the DJ'ses' best-loved and most-well known hit, bringing the duo's authentic electro-tom hits and up-down basslines to our attentions once more.
Review: Doctr's third trip to Bordello A Parigi delivers another gem with 'Now You Can Fly'. This time, he's teamed up with Julia to create two tracks brimming with peak-time energy and infectious rhythms. The title track is a burst of hi-NRG euphoria. Doctr expertly layers bending synths and sharp stabs over relentless beats, all while Julia's vocals add a soulful edge. There's a sense of anticipation in the air, each key change lifting the track to new heights. As the vocals weave in and out, the uplifting melodies build a strong synergy, creating a seamless blend of emotional depth and dancefloor power. On the flip, 'Now You Can Fly' takes a different approach. The vocals are stripped back, allowing the track's instrumental elements to shine. Sun-soaked synth lines float effortlessly above calypso-tinged percussion, creating a summery vibe that's both breezy and energising. The contrast between the two versions is striking, with the instrumental allowing the track's deeper textures and melodic layers to take centre stage. Doctr's latest offering is a masterclass in how to craft uplifting, feel-good music that doesn't sacrifice depth for accessibility. Whether it's the vocal-driven euphoria of the A-side or the more understated warmth of the flip, 'Now You Can Fly' is a testament to his ability to create tracks that resonate on multiple levels - exactly what the doctor ordered.
Review: Chicago's Mike Dunn is well loved for his raw-as-you-like take on house music, often with plenty of attitude borrowed from hip hop also thrown into the mix. He's got tons of seminal tunes to his name and can also bang out edits and more disco gems. This first volume of his Seeds Sticks & Stems series on the label of the same name is backed with quality tools. The opener is a darker number with marching drums and funky bass, 'Track 2' is a rework of a Talking Heads classic and 'Track 3' brings some feel-good disco vibrations.
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