Back catalogue: Funk

Review: Best known to many as Brett Domino from 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown and all round internet keytar cover verion fame, Rob J Madin steps out from his comedy roots with a fresh suite of instrumental jazz-funk recorded mostly in his Sheffield attic. Drawing from the energy of artists like BadBadNotGood and Mildlife, the new six-track EP blends silky keys, warped synths, and choppy drum samples into a head-nodding, sun-drenched mod soul anthem set. 'Callisto Disco' veers over brash momenta, while 'Cherryade' leans back towards a laid-back optimism, not to mention the opener 'Bouquet Garni', which prophesies restless singalong hums by the never-forgetting listener.

Review: The turn of 1980 saw limited quantities of Salty Miller's lone album, a hidden gem of the beach music scene of the Carolinas, after which the properly named Beach Music Records names itself (they monopolised the scene early on). Miller's album blends soul, disco, and mid-tempo steppers, perfect accompaniments for the shag, beach music's signature dance. Though an 80s classic in its own right, Album 1 was made after Miller took extended time away from releasing: his masterwork heard a noble North Carolinian cast, including members of fellow The Embers, then join him on backing duties. Oceanic soundscapes and emotive string arrangements contrast with a local joviality; 'One More Time', 'Music Makes Me High', and 'The Fox' are standouts, though the peak sensation 'Happy Is The Word' has to be our highlight, bringing boardwalk-strutter soul and pitchy electric organs to a well chorused mix.

Review: Miles Away: One, curated by label founder Dom Ore, is a soulful journey spanning continents, eras, and genres. Rooted in soul, this compilation seamlessly blends legendary musical figures with lesser-known gems, creating a cohesive listening experience. Disc one kicks off with Idris Muhammad's spiritual-jazz masterpiece 'I'm A Believer,' leading into modern soul and disco selections that showcase Miles Away's reputation. Highlights include Eugene Smiley's rare crossover-soul track 'Yes It's You' and Solid Gold Revue's infectious dance cut 'She's So Good.' The compilation also features enduring soul funk like 'No Communication' by True Transfusion and gospel-infused sounds like 'Fantasy Ride' by Uneda Dennard. Disc two takes a different turn, offering soundtrack and library music cuts alongside eclectic finds like Laine August's electro-pop gem 'Be My Friend' and Colour's stripped-back street-soul track 'Deeper.' The set concludes with Margaret Singana's timeless cover of Stretch's 'Why Did You Do It.' Painstakingly researched and officially licensed, each track is accompanied by in-depth liner notes, honoring the artists and their music. Miles Away: One is a worthy addition to any collection.