Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Kiefer's first live album captures the brilliant energy of his trio which features longtime collaborators Luke Titus and Pera Krstajic. This record was recorded at an intimate, secret Los Angeles show in April 2023 and includes a brand-new title track alongside selections from Kiefer's catalogue and a moving rendition of Bobby Hutcherson's 'Montara'. A GRAMMY-winning artist, Kiefer has worked with Anderson .Paak and Drake and recently performed an NPR Tiny Desk concert with Nate Smith, Carrtoons, Theo Croker and Charlie Hunter which have helped establish him on the world stage. This album is one that will resonate with fans of acts like Theo Croker, Mndsgn and Dinner Party.

Review: After the success of their 2021 release 'The Bent Bow Must Wait to Be Released', musician, writer and filmmaker Sunik Kim is back with more brilliance. This time this second crucial album comes as two side-ing pieces that pair playful synth innovation with "a touch of slapstick humour, a la Henry Cow." It has been crafted using MIDI instrumentation and is about the art of fining beauty and order in chaos. Complex structures and regularly breaking rhythms intertwine with harsh clusters of keys and sweeping orchestral manoeuvres all making this as intense as it is rewarding.

Review: John Carroll Kirby has worked with the likes of Solange, Frank Ocean, Sebastian Tellier and many more, but he's equally celebrated as a solo artist who returns to Stones Throw for his fifth LP. This time around, the album has been made in tandem with incredible Canadian artist Yu Su, who lends her touch to the production around Kirby's infectious keys. The album is largely instrumental save for an uplifting guest spot from Laraaji on opening track 'Dawn of New Day', but as with previous Kirby albums he has more than enough to say in the conviction of his playing. Ever chameleonic, his sound on Dance Ancestral is removed from the solo piano ambience of Conflict, but as ever Kirby's deep-rooted musicality soars, buffeted by Yu Su's fantasy confections. If you're in search of something to make you feel good, this record has positive energy for days.

Review: The ever-prolific John Carroll Kirby is back on Stones Throw barely a minute after releasing no less than two albums last year. Of course, no one is complaining when the quantity is matched with the quality Kirby brings, and Blowout is bursting with the laid back musicality and inherent joy Kirby is so well-loved for. The album was recorded during a recent stay in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, and you can sense the surroundings feeding into the music, from the 5am wake up call from the oropendola birds to the blissful sunsets. This is smooth as silk jazz funk with a mission: to help you enjoy life. Consider this mission accomplished.

Review: You don't sell 5.27 million copies of anything without doing something right. Winner of the E3 Game Critics award for Best Platform Game in 1999, to name just one of countless nominations and awards, Donkey Kong 64 was one of the best loved titles on the iconic Nintendo 64, and represented two years of programming, coding and designing on the part of legendary software house, Rare. Amazingly, considering this was almost three decades ago and cartridge-based titles are usually regarded as the stronghold of chip music, Grant Kirkhope's score is anything but and still sounds fresh. From aptly titled opener, 'DK Rap', to the meandering jazz closer 'Candy Kong', featuring David Leo Kemp on sax, via 'Angry Aztec' and its Indiana Jones vibe, and the John Williams-esque 'Mine Cart', it's all so enjoyable.

Review: A self-titled debut album that's an impressive and deeply personal statement, featuring the trio's dynamic blend of jazz, fusion and West African influences. Rooted in their Newcastle upbringing, the record captures both the joy and struggles of their journey, translating lived experience into sophisticated, groove-driven compositions. Led by bassist Stan Woodward and drummer King David-Ike Elechi, with the virtuosic Ferg Kilsby on trumpet, Knats have crafted a sound that is both intricate and accessible. Tracks like the lead up single, 'Tortuga (For Me Mam)' radiate warmth and gratitude, while 'Se7en' delves into darker, introspective territory, reflecting Stan's complex relationship with his father, DJ Se7en. 'Adaeze', a poignant tribute to King's late sister, weaves gospel-folk melodies with West African percussive textures, adding a rich emotional depth. Their latest single, 'Rumba(r)', highlights the band's playful yet refined approach, fusing rumba clave rhythms with melodic sophistication, nodding to both 70s fusion and romantic classical influences. Their ability to balance technical prowess with emotive storytelling has earned them critical acclaim, and with infectious energy and masterful musicianship, Knats' debut is sure to turn heads.

Review: Over a year since the release of their exhilarating debut album Could We Be More, Kokoroko present a new collection of remixes of tracks from their debut album. The record brings together a dizzying, globe-spanning array of contemporary music's most forward-thinking artists including Dreamcastmoe, anaiis, KeiyaA, Eun, Demae, Hagan, Ash Lauryn, Stefan Ringer, Miles James, and Vanyfox. A beguiling slice of contemporary jazzdance lent a fresh modern glitzing twist, mixing old friends and fresh faces alike, while not failing to demonstrate the enduring talents of Kokoroko in equal measure.

Review: Kokoroko have been on all world music lovers' radars since their very first and very impressive EP on Brownswood back in 2018. Now we are treated to an expansive and adventurous debut album on the same label that sees the group build on their great early start. Could We Be More has been preceded by new single 'We Give Thanks' and draws plenty of inspiration from the highlife and jazz sounds of West Africa, the Afrobeat and psych-funk sounds of the 70s and plenty of modern broken beat styles. Each tunes swells with emotion and evokes good times.

Review: Ruth Koleva hails from Sofia, Bulgaria, and has been a TV star and singing out concert halls for years. She has also long been singing on some superb broken beat and nu-jazz records while working with top-level production talent and having her tunes remixed by Zed Bias, Kaidi Tatham, Mark de Clive-Lowe and Eric Lau. The neo-soul star's Ruth album gets a special anniversary edition release here with four heart-melting and textbook neo-soul tunes on the A-side then some super remixes on the flip. This is timeless stuff that works on the heart and the heel in equal measure.

Review: Outer Spaceways Incorporated: Kronos Quartet & Friends Meet Sun Ra is a tribute to the legendary Sun Ra, the fourth in a series inspired by his music and vision and bringing together an eclectic group of musicians, composers, producers, and emcees, all converging to honor the cosmic spirituality and innovative genius of Sun Ra. Harrington aimed to place Sun Ra alongside American music giants like Charles Ives and Duke Ellington. The project features a diverse lineup, including Jlin, Nicole Lizee, Zachary Watkins, Trey Spruance, Victoria Shen, and Jacob Garchik. The album's collaborative spirit is highlighted by contributions from Marshall Allen, Georgia Anne Muldrow, RP Boo, Armand Hammer, and 700 Bliss, among others. Harrington and his team sought to create a sonic landscape that reflects Sun Ra's world, blending genres and pushing the boundaries of music, much like Sun Ra himself did throughout his career. The result is a forward-thinking, cosmic journey that truly captures the expansive and boundary-defying essence of Sun Ra's work.

Review: To celebrate the 25th anniversary of The K&D Sessions, Kruder & Dorfmeister present a stunning limited-edition box set, available on 6xLP. Mastered by renowned engineer Bernie Grundman, this edition promises an audiophile listening experience. The set includes a newly added 6th LP featuring previously unreleased material, including remixes of Madonna, Roni Size, Lewis Taylor and Count Basic. The lavish packaging boasts gloss finishes, metallic gold Pantone details, and clear UV varnishing on the sleeves. Additionally, it includes a 40-page booklet filled with rare, unseen photos from the original era and extensive liner notes by Max Dax, Robert Menasse, and Werner Geier. A hi-res A2 poster is also part of the package. The standout tracks on the sixth LP include Kruder's 11-minute remix of Madonna's 'Nothing Really Matters', along with K&D's interpretation of Roni Size's 'Heroes' and U.F.O.'s 'L.O.V.E.'. Lewis Taylor's 'Lucky' appears in two remixed forms, one dubbed out and the other vocal-driven. This deluxe release elevates the original The K&D Sessions, which became the soundtrack for countless late 90s afterparties and lounge sessions, to new heights with a beautifully crafted presentation fitting for its enduring legacy.

Review: For the 25th anniversary of Kruder & Dorfmeister's iconic Sessions, this CD box set is the best version yet for fans and collectors. The set includes previously unreleased music and remixes from artists like Madonna, Lewis Taylor, and Count Basic. Originally released in 1999, Sessions compiled Kruder & Dorfmeister's masterful remixes and original tracks, defining the "mood music" genre with its rich blend of dubby downtempo, drum & bass and Brazilian sampladelia. The compilation's subtle complexity and cinematic allure remain as influential as ever, capturing the essence of its era with a smoky, introspective vibe that continues to resonate. This edition includes a 40 page booklet plus a poster as an added bonus.

Review: To get away from the 'one track after the other' compilation concept K&D checked in at Havlis Super Sound where their man Alex (don of the echo chambers) has a secret dub-laboratory. There K&D did a dub session on the selected tracks to inject some dynamics and life into it. They took two bottles of Highland Park whisky and their old dub-echoes from the cellar and did a smoked-out dub echo-orgy.

Review: Undoubtedly one of the most anticipated releases of 2020, legendary UK producer DJ Krust makes a comeback with his first release in 14 years, and rather surprisingly on Crosstown Rebels - of all labels. While we all know Damian Lazarus' established imprint is anything but drum and bass, it is well known that he was an early champion of the sound, long before his tenure at City Rockers in the early '00s when he embraced 'electroclash' - but that's another story. It's clear that Krust created some of the most seminal records in the genre throughout the nineties and noughties, and he is back in fine form on The Edge Of Everything, having explored radical new philosophies and creative processes. Minimalist arrangements as heard on tracks like 'Constructive Ambiguity' hark back to his signature sound of the aforementioned period, while he also explores more experimental minded beats as heard on 'Antigravity Love' and proper darkside rolling drama exemplified on 'Deep Fields Of Liars'.

Review: Takuya Kuroda's Rising Son album on First Word Records heralds a new chapter in jazz innovation. With masterful trumpet prowess and genre-defying compositions, Kuroda's album is a new school take on classic sounds that traverses many a vibrant landscape. Seamlessly blending traditional jazz with contemporary influences, Kuroda's musical vision resonates with soulful depth and infectious energy across all of these most exquisite pieces. Each one is a testament to Kuroda's dynamic artistry and his ability to push the boundaries of the genre with his meaningful and stirring melodies and rich textures. It is another great work from this pioneering jazz force that is poised to captivate audiences worldwide.

Review: Talib Kweli and Madlib, two hip-hop heavyweights, have reunited for the highly anticipated Liberation 2, an expansive album exploring themes of revolution, love, and pan-Africanism, all set against Madlib's jazz-infused productions. Featuring collaborations with Q-Tip, Westside Gunn, and Mac Miller, the album is a global call for unity. Its thought-provoking lyrics and raw soundscapes showcase Kweli's enduring influence and Madlib's production prowess, paying homage to the genre's roots while pushing its boundaries. This album has been on many people's list as a potential hip-hop album of the year and we won't be at all surprised if that's where it ends up.

Review: Evergreen jazzers Shuya and Yoshihiro Okino mark an impressive 30 years performing and recording as Kyoto Jazz Massive with this superb selection of favourite covers the brothers have enjoyed playing across their storied careers. Embellished with the vocal prowess of Vanessa Freeman and Bembe Segue, the immaculately presented collection blends elements of Latin, jazz, disco and funk over a typically fusionist set. Opening with the gentle waves of 'Black Renaissance', the record bursts into life with the samba flex of 'Kowree Sambazzi'. The soul-heavy thrust of 'No Cross No Crown' stirs the senses, before the nocturnal energy of 'Karmapa Chenno' veers ever so slightly off-piste with its jagged rhythms and grooves. Finally, the hands-in-the-air positivity of 'Love Is Everywhere' ends on a joyously uplifting note.

Review: Kyoto Jazz Massive returns with a new era of sound. It has been 20 years since Eclipse and 19 years since Spirit of the Sun but now their highly anticipated second album, Message From A New Dawn, is finally here. This record marks an evolution of the line-up into a full band and blend of techno, jazz, house, boogie, soul, broken beats, fusion, Afrobeat, and more as Kyoto Jazz Massive presents their vision of the ultimate crossover electric jazz fusion, and featuring none other than the legendary Roy Ayers. It all adds up to a fresh take on their iconic sound, crafted to push boundaries and inspire the future of jazz.

Review: Shuya Okino is a DJ, club owner, writer and producer as well as being a part of the Kyoto Jazz Massive, and has been a vital figure in the Japanese club scene for over three decades. He is involved in a wide range of projects from Cosmic Village to Root Soul to Mondo Grosso, but his work with brother Yoshihiro as Kyoto Jazz Massive might be his best. This new album is another standout fusion of synth, broken beat and nu-jazz styles. Some of the tunes are pure dance floor heaters such as the prickly vibes of 'Get Up' while others gaze off to a cosmic future such as the gorgeous synths of 'Visions Of Tomorrow'. Essential.

Review: Kyoto Jazz Sextet are an acoustic jazz 'unit' established in 2015 fronted by Shuya Okino. After their first two albums 'Mission' and 'Unity' this new third album channels only the best of what Tokyo's jazz scene has to offer, illuminating both past and present musical narratives in Japan by enlisting both new artists and legends (Takeo Moryiama appears on drums) alike.

Review: There's a point in 'Awakening', about 2:15 in, when you realise how perfectly balanced the piece is. A sumptuous mixture of jazz, downtempo and drum & bass, just like Labour's election win, you have to ask yourself how hollow the track will turn out to be once it's actually front and centre. But regardless of the next four years, Sonic Weapon and KoolMFL's laidback afternoon bliss delivers in terms of depth and instance gratification. No mean feat, Sneaker 012 doesn't slip from thereon in. 'Suckers' is percussive opium, somehow both calming and compelling, 'K-Dub' belongs in all our hopes for hip hop instrumentals, and as we get further into things how about those warbling disco cuts ('KCAB') and organic house grooves ('I Thought It Was Lonnie')? Let's leave it there then.

Review: Nothing Leaves The House: The Anthology brings together four talented producers who each bring their own flavour to instrumental hip-hop. Tall Black Guy kicks things off with 'One to One,' a jazzy, laid-back track with a smooth groove, followed by 'Solar Coaster For The People,' which ups the energy with its infectious rhythm. Eric Lau's 'Chop For Mr Thing' is a standout, with intricate beats and soulful layers, while Kidkanevil's 'Loopin' Ill' brings playful, quirky melodies. Mr Thing closes the collection with 'Changes,' a funky, groove-driven track that wraps things up on a high note. An essential compilation for fans of soulful hip-hop and jazzy beats.

Review: For the first time, experimental saxophonist and composer Jimi Tenor finds Norweigan dance powerhouse DJ Sotofett, both teaming up for a collaboration: 'No Warranty Dubs'. Completing the trifecta is Berlin ensemble Kabukabu, the five-piece Afro-jazz-funkers whose original recordings - many of which were overseen expertly by Tenor himself - now come redistilled through a dubwise filter paper. The loose-limbed, lackadaisical energy of Kabukabu's live instrumentation merge fully with Tenor's genre-blurring composites, as Sotofett recasts fifteen tracks into rhythm-driven, bass-heavy versions. The original free jazz and Afro-influenced elements remain present, but they here serve as rawer material for layered studio treatments, channelling echo-drenched edit work and hypnotic repetition, where nothing ever rests to the point of complacency.