Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Mr Bongo's Brazilian 45 series hits it's ninth gear with two region-defining slices of sun-kissed samba soul. Doris takes the lead with delicate frontage. Leading from the front, all instruments follow her cues and mirror each vocal flourish with mild big band cheekiness. The instantly distinctive "Tudo Que Voce Podia Ser" from sister quartet Quarteto Em Cy is a great twist on a Latin classic with its slightly rocky guitars and full bodied harmonies. Previously released in 1972, a return has been long overdue.

Review: Soul and r&b are rich scenes that often cross-pollinate. Right now, few are doing it better than the organic creative partnership between LA's Jamma-Dee and London's Qendresa. Their new work 'Undercover Lover' finds its roots in Jamma-Dee's robust beat which anchors a tapestry of intricate rhythms and textures that define the West Coast soul-funk scene. Qendresa's adept songwriting adds seamless hooks and flowing vocal melodies that have true bold energy. Gary Gritness's live bassline, born from a spontaneous studio session, injects deep groove into the track while engineer K15 enhances the record with resonant richness.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Missing original sleeve, record in working order***


Having made a name for himself around the world, DJ Will Holland aka Quantic finally launches his own record label. Entitled Selva Records it kicks off with a new and steamy 7" featuring Denitia. Her vocals are the butter on top of the sweet production, which is late night neo-soul and jazzy. The track has plenty of room for emotions to sink in, and a golden sound that is superbly lush and luxuriant. Says the artist on his latest link with Denitia, "I think Denitia and I both had a new confidence about working together and were excited about the new sounds we were building." Too right.

Review: The 7" Douchetown brings together Queen Beach Killer Cat and Page 99 for a pair of smooth, soulful lounge tracks that transport listeners to a retro-infused world. Side-1 features Queen Beach Killer Cat's 'Douchetown,' a track that channels the essence of late 70s smooth soul, funk, and disco. With its laid-back groove and soulful blend, it's reminiscent of Boz Scaggs' finest moments, while the title adds a touch of tongue-in-cheek irony to the relaxed vibe. On Side-2, Page 99 teams up with Queen Beach Killer Cat for a lounge-inspired cover of Van Halen's 'Why Can't This Be Love.' The clever reimagining transforms the rock classic into a mellow, jazzy rendition, making this release a delightful fusion of nostalgia and originality.

Review: The remastered 7" reissue from Brazil 45s/Mr Bongo features two highly coveted tracks from Quinteto Ternura and their predecessor, Trio Ternura. This pressing revives two rare gems from the past with a fresh, high-quality cut. On Side-1, Quinteto Ternura delivers 'Baby,' a dazzling Brazilian modern soul track penned by Caetano Veloso and arranged by Arthur Verocai. Originally from their 1974 self-titled LP, this song is a smooth blend of tropical bliss and has long been a cherished rarity. Flipping to the Side-2, Trio Ternura's 'Filhos De Zambi' offers an upbeat samba-funk delight. Released in the same year, this track is filled with vibrant energy from the original trio, featuring a catchy chorus and a dynamic key change. Co-written by the siblings' father Umberto Silva and Jose Ribamar, it remains a dancefloor favorite. This reissue provides a valuable opportunity to own these classic tracks in their prime.