Back catalogue: Funk

Review: The Natural Yogurt Band, purveyors of enigmatic library music, return with their eighth release, a cosmic odyssey that pushes the boundaries of their signature sound. Joined by keyboardist Huw Rees aka The Oracle, the band ventures into a richer galaxy of sonic exploration. 'Projections' sets the stage with its warped organs and gritty drum breaks, while 'Altered States' and 'Bio Morphic Patterns' delve deeper into the cosmic unknown, their swirling melodies and hypnotic rhythms evoking the vastness of space. 'Messages' and 'Nebulous' offer moments of introspection, their ethereal textures and ambient soundscapes creating a sense of otherworldly wonder. On the flipside, 'Perception' and 'Poly Morph' continue the exploration, their pulsating rhythms and experimental soundscapes challenging the listener's perception of reality. 'Existence' and 'Dimensions' close out the journey, their expansive sounds and philosophical undertones leaving a lasting impression. This is a must-listen for those seeking a unique and thought-provoking musical experience.

Review: Nomade Orquestra's long-awaited Terceiro Mundo marks the culmination of a conceptual cycle for the Sao Paulo collective. This fifth studio LP is a powerful journey of resilience, conceived during the challenges of the 2020 pandemic. The album's eight tracks weave together a sonic patchwork that merges revived older ideas with fresh, pandemic-era compositions. The record brings the trilogy of instrumental releases to a close, with grooves and energetic beats drawing heavily on funk and soul influences. Brass sections add intensity, while flutes and ethnic instruments infuse global flavour. It's a soundscape-driven experience, transporting listeners without ever leaving their surroundings. Released via Nublu Records, Terceiro Mundo reflects Nomade Orquestra's distinctive approach to Brazilian instrumental music. Their performance, recorded live, captures a raw, almost collage-like energy that defines the album's eclecticism. The title, inspired by third-worldism, mirrors their journey through adversity with a sense of hope and conviction, celebrating their past while looking towards new creative horizons.