Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Ruby Rushton's latest offering presents a vibrant exploration of rhythm and texture, breathing new life into contemporary jazz fusion. On the title track, 'Stapodia,' an infectious groove shifts effortlessly between time signatures, creating a dynamic backdrop for striking solos on saxophone and trumpet. 'Kalo Livadi' bursts forth with a whirlwind of flute, trumpet, and synth bass, only to wind down into a hypnotic hip-hop groove, its keys solo lingering like an unexpected afterthought. The interplay of improvisation and structure feels both daring and deliberate, capturing the energy of a band constantly in conversation with itself.

Review: In celebration of 50 years in the performing arts, Idris Ackamoor presents Artistic Being for Record Store Day 2025-a powerful blend of jazz, spoken word and activism. Featuring the voices of acclaimed actor Danny Glover and stage legend Rhodessa Jones, this record captures highlights from the Underground Jazz Cabaret, which was performed during Black History Month 2024 at The Lab in San Francisco. Co-produced by Ackamoor's Cultural Odyssey, the release fuses poetic storytelling with evocative musical textures while reflecting on social justice, identity and resilience. Artistic Being is a profound statement from a visionary artist.

Review: Ruben Blades is a singer but also a former Minister of Tourism of Panama, actor, activist and composer. He is a master of Latin jazz and for this album On Fotografias he reunites with the exceptional Roberto Delgado to continue a partnership that has defined his recent work. The Grammy and Latin Grammy-winning ensemble masterfully navigates an array of styles and bring fresh energy to eight of Blades' compositions. Their virtuosity shines through rich arrangements which are a colourful and sunny mix of salsa, jazz, and tropical rhythms with seamless precision. Blades' storytelling remains as compelling as ever as his lyrics are infused with nostalgia, social commentary and poetic depth.

Review: An organic, whirlwind jazz fusion record from the contemporary master Orlando le Fleming, whose main instrument is double bass/electric bass, but whose compositional and improvisational talents are equally captivating. Teaming up with the Romantic Funk band for a long recording session in his native UK after a long sojourn in New York, Fleming opts for a continuation of the acoustic tradition that continues unabated along his deep affection for the robust, muscular electric fusion that emerged in the 1980s. From the opening 'Don't Dwell On It' - an epicurean, hand-shaking improv-jazz carnival for bass and stereo sax - to 'Wandering Talk' - a horny but still sublime blue jazz introject for duetting vocals, with coded lyrics about disconnection and connection over long distances - this is a sprawlingly sophisticated record.

Review: In a first-time collaboration, psychedelic trance godhead Simon Posford (best known as Hallucinogen and a founding member of Shpongle) teams up with fellow hippie and flutist Raja Ram (Ronald Rothfield) on a welling improvisatory record, Improvisations For Piano And Flute. Though both are highly esteemed artists in their respective micro-corners of the electronic music scene, Posford and Rothfield both depart significantly from their usually danceable ends for a living-room recorded set of ambiences. With a synth placed atop an antique Bluthner piano, Raj and Simon would join in after the other first begun playing, delivering a 44-minute effluence for the spontaneous soul.

Review: Recorded during a 2002 studio session that followed a performance at the Vision Festival in New York City, the album features drummer Ali alongside saxophonist Frank Lowe and emerging talents Jumaane Smith (trumpet), Andrew Bemkey (piano) and Joris Teepe (bass). It's a dynamic ensemble bridges generations, blending seasoned mastery with youthful energy through fiery improvisations and moments of profound unity. Ali's pioneering style, rooted in multidirectional rhythms and polytonal percussion, reshaped jazz drumming by liberating the drummer from a purely time-keeping role. His intuitive interplay with the music, both rhythmically and melodically, made him an equal voice in the ensemble's harmonic creation. This approach resonates throughout the album, where cascading trumpet solos and intricate piano harmonies are tethered by a vibrant bass and Ali's commanding percussion. Tracks like the soaring opener and introspective interludes demonstrate the group's ability to shift seamlessly from bold, expressive improvisation to passages of collective breathing. Originally mixed and mastered by Ali, the recordings were shelved after his untimely passing and are now released by Survival Records in a beautifully restored LP, complete with recollections from Teepe.

Review: In their day, Rebirth Brass Band were New Orleans' premier brass ensemble and in 2001 they showed it with the fiery energy of their album Hot Venom. This record has never previously been available on wax and captures the band's signature blend of traditional brass sounds with their own take on modern grooves. Highlights include dynamic collaborations with rap legends Soulja Slim on the musically and socially hard-hitting track 'You Don't Wanna Go To War', and Cheeky Blakk on the unapologetically bold 'Pop That Pussy.' Wherever you turn here you're confronted with infectious rhythms and raw New Orleans energy that cannot be faked. Hot Venom really is the sound of a band at their innovative best and bridging musical worlds.

Review: A transatlantic jazz summit, capturing Jamaican trumpeter Dizzy Reece alongside American legends Donald Byrd and Art Taylor. Recorded in London in 1958, Blues In Trinity marks Reece's Blue Note debut, a vibrant blend of hard bop and soulful melodies and features a stellar lineup including Tubby Hayes on tenor sax, Terry Shannon on piano and Lloyd Thompson on bass. Reece's trumpet shines throughout, his expressive playing and melodic phrasing complemented by Byrd's equally impressive contributions. Highlights include the soulful title track, the dreamy 'I Had The Craziest Dream' and a captivating rendition of Monk's 'Round About Midnight'.

Review: This is the first release in 33 years from jazz guitar legend Emily Remler. The previously unreleased collection features performances from Alan Grant's "4 Queens Jazz Night" radio program, which was recorded live in Las Vegas and broadcast on KNPR. The limited-edition 180-gram triple vinyl set includes quartet performances with pianist Cocho Arbe, bassist Carson Smith and drummer Tom Montgomery and trio performances with Smith and drummer John Pisci. Mastered from original tape reels by Bernie Grundman, the deluxe set features liner notes by Bill Milkowski and insights from artists inspired by Remler so is a complete collector's item.

Review: Four Flies has unearthed a long-lost gem: Gianfranco Reverberi's daring soundtrack to Rivelazioni, a notorious 1973 film by director Renato Polselli. Reverberi, known for producing legends like Lucio Dalla and Gino Paoli, initially distanced himself from the film's controversial themes by releasing the music under a pseudonym. Yet, Rivelazioni's score, with its driving rhythms and experimental edge, shines as a bold, innovative creation. The soundtrack features an impressive use of electronic instruments, including drum machines and spacey synths, alongside psychedelic flutes, piano and jazzy improvision. 'Psicolimite', originally released under the name Sharon Chatam, has become a coveted rarity, sparking excitement around the full soundtrack's reissue. Recovered from original 1-inch, 16-track tapes, the score has been remastered for both vinyl and digital formats. With a raw, relentless rhythm section and dark, atmospheric vibes, this soundtrack is an essential find for fans of Italian genre cinema and daring experimental music. Available now as a double LP with stunning artwork, Rivelazioni finally gets its well-deserved moment in the spotlight.

Review: Freddie Roach's 1963 session is a soul jazz classic that epitomises Blue Note's golden era. With a line-up featuring Blue Mitchell's crisp trumpet lines, Hank Mobley's smoky tenor sax, Eddie Wright's intricate guitar work, and Clarence Johnston's dynamic drumming, the music brims with groove and sophistication. Roach's Hammond B3 organ anchors the ensemble, balancing soulful warmth with technical brilliance. This deluxe reissue, part of the Tone Poet series, features meticulous production by Joe Harley. A timeless gem, now restored for audiophiles and jazz lovers alike.

Review: Get ready for the release of Curyman II, Roge's eagerly awaited album, arriving via Diamond West Records. This record has collaborations with esteemed musicians, blending the essence of Brazilian music with innovative elements. It promises to be both a homage and an evolution of Roge's distinctive sound. As a Latin Grammy-nominated and Brazilian Music Awards-winning artist, Roge has become a key player in the revitalization of Musica Popular Brasileira (MPB). Over his two-decade career, he has released seven solo albums, establishing his presence in the contemporary Brazilian music landscape. His U.S. debut, CURYMAN, released in 2023, was produced by Thomas Brenneck of the Budos Band, known for his work with icons like Lady Gaga and Beyonce. This album celebrated samba while conveying themes of resilience and redemption. With Curyman II, Roge aims to build on the momentum of his previous success, delivering even more dynamic samba rhythms and insightful lyrics.

Review: Curyman II, set for release via Diamond West Records, is the highly anticipated follow-up to Roge's US debut album. This album honors the roots of Brazilian music while pushing its boundaries, showcasing Roge's evolution as an artist. Collaborating with legendary figures such as Seu Jorge and Arthur Verocai, who arranged strings for both Curyman albums, Roge creates a vibrant tapestry of sound that bridges the past and future of Brazilian music. With a career spanning over two decades and multiple accolades, including a Latin Grammy nomination, Roge is a pivotal figure in the resurgence of Musica Popular Brasileira (MPB). His previous release, Curyman, produced by Thomas Brenneck of the Budos Band, celebrated samba infused with messages of resilience and hope. Curyman II promises to build on this success, delivering even more infectious samba rhythms and thought-provoking lyrics. As Roge continues to evolve, he remains dedicated to sharing Brazil's rich cultural heritage with audiences worldwide, making this album an exciting invitation to immerse in his soulful musical world once again.

Review: Way Out West is Sonny Rollins' 1957 foray into jazz with a visually Western edge. Famous for its novel use of the 'strolling' technique - on which the esteemed American tenor saxophonist only solos with bass and drums, and drops the piano and guitar accompaniment - the sound produced is a uniquely up-close one. This Craft reissue captures that very same curious mood of Rollins' first adventure"out West", which we vicariously experience through this record.

Review: Sonny Rollins made his Blue Note debut in 1949 with Bud Powell, but returned as a leader in 1956 with Volume 1. This album showcases classic Rollins so has plenty of hard-swinging originals and a tender ballad that perfectly offer up his powerful sound and boundless improvisational skills. The quintet includes Donald Byrd, Wynton Kelly, Gene Ramey and Max Roach who all support Rollins in creating a dynamic blend of jazz. This record solidified Rollins' reputation as a leading figure in the genre, and that is still true to this day.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Slight creasing to outer sleeve, record slightly warped***


Jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins assembled a star cabinet of collaborators on his 1959 hard bop record, uniting a near justice league of greats whose roster tallied Hampton Hawes, Barney Kessel, Leroy Vinnegar, Shelly Manne and Victor Feldman. Known as the last of the Rollins records to be released before the artist's untimely retirement - at least, the first of several sabbatics, though that didn't prevent him appearing on The Simpsons in 2013 - this LP comprises a long host of standards and originals, including brilliantly vibraphonic call-responses, faster extended phrases and walking-bass bouffants.

Review: Sonny Rollins' 'Alfie' soundtrack, originally released in 1966, is an enthralling example of the saxophonist's ability to weave narratives through his music, his incisive and energetic playing breathing life into the film's themes of love, loss and the complexities of human relationships. The iconic 'Alfie's Theme' and its variations are instantly recognisable, their melancholic beauty capturing the film's emotional core. But the album also features hidden gems like the regret-tinged 'He's Younger Than You Are' and the sensually relaxed 'On Impulse', showcasing Rollins' versatility and emotional range.

Review: Jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins assembled a star cabinet of collaborators on his 1959 hard bop record, uniting a near justice league of greats whose roster tallied Hampton Hawes, Barney Kessel, Leroy Vinnegar, Shelly Manne and Victor Feldman. Known as the last of the Rollins records to be released before the artist's untimely retirement - at least, the first of several sabbatics, though that didn't prevent him appearing on The Simpsons in 2013 - this LP comprises a long host of standards and originals, including brilliantly vibraphonic call-responses, faster extended phrases and walking-bass bouffants.

Review: Two Is One (1974, now 2025) recaptures saxophonist Charlie Rouse at the peak of his rabble-Rousing powers, commanding the popular will (through steering clear of sonic demagoguery) through effortless funk, soul jazz, and post-bop, all while orbiting that distinctive cosmic ring-edge that defined the Strata-East catalogue. Best known for his long tenure alongside Thelonious Monk, Rouse steps into a new light here, leading a stellar ensemble made up of guitarists George Davis and Paul Metzke, Cal Scott on electric cello and Stanley Clarke on bass. Together they stretch out across a set both grounded and exploratory, with a spiritual undercurrent running through the grooves. Newly issued on 180-gram vinyl, the record comes packed in a tip-on gatefold with fresh liner notes from Syd Schwartz and rare archival photos, bringing fresh focus to one of Rouse's most compelling records.

Review: First released in 2020 decades after it was recorded at Vidro, a jazz venue in Sapporo (where he and his wife ran a rival club, Showboat), this live album shows pianist Ryo Fukui and his sidemen Satoshi Denpo (bass) and Yoshinori Fukui (drums) at the peak of their powers. They'd first made a splash in the Japanese jazz scene with their album Scenery - released a year before in 1976 - and the trio's performance, recorded by that album's producer, adds an energetic and freewheeling slant to their ear-pleasing trademark sound. For proof, check the LP-opening version of LP cut 'Mellow Dream', where Fukui showcases his skills and emotive, fluid pianist, the slow-motion warmth of 'Body and Soul' and the floor-shaking wonder that is 'Mr PC'.

Review: A singular force in European jazz, Norwegian guitarist Terje Rypdal emerged from Oslo's late-60s underground, swapping out psychedelic rock theatrics for a more searching, cinematic mode of improvisation. This early work catches him mid-morph, just 21 and already pulling away from the fuzz of his band The Dream to chase a colder, more expressive language. 'Dead Man's Tale' sets the toneigritty, restless, stretched to its limitsiwhile 'Wes' offers a moment of reverence in its loose, lyrical swing. There's a quiet narrative elegance to 'Winter Serenade', its three-part structure marking snowfall, storm and thaw, and 'Bleak House' and 'Sonority' lean darker, flirting with the avant-garde. Closer 'A Feeling Of Harmony' tilts things back toward resolution, leaving behind a kind of luminous melancholy that points forward to his landmark ECM work.

Review: This album recorded by Tatum and Webster in 1956 came just prior to Tatum's passing less than two months later. Revered as a masterpiece, the dynamic interplay between Webster's blend of aggression and lyricism and Tatum's flamboyance and delicacy creates a captivating encounter, with Callendar and Douglass providing impeccable support. Reissued previously by Essential Jazz Classics, this new edition adds bonus tracks from a 1953 Tatum solo session and four numbers from a summit meeting between Webster and Teddy Wilson.The opener sets a languid tempo, diverging from the breakneck pace of many bebop jams, establishing the album's relaxed vibe. And even as later cuts quicken the pace, there's an underlying sense of ease that permeates throughout. Tatum's cascades of notes serve as ornamental accents rather than urgent directives, while Webster, despite the excess reverb of the era, focuses on melody.