Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Chicago's Live at 55 sees the legendary band celebrating over five decades of music with a performance full of energy and nostalgia. Featuring a mix of classic hits and deeper cuts, the set is a celebration of their enduring legacy. The performance builds with brass-heavy anthems like '25 or 6 to 4' and the smooth 'If You Leave Me Now', proving their ability to mix rock, jazz, and pop seamlessly. With guest appearances adding a fresh layer to the familiar sound, the album captures the essence of Chicago's rich musical history, while continuing to demonstrate their dynamic stage presence.

Review: Enja Records was founded in Munich in the early 70s by jazz devotees Matthias Winckelmann and Horst Weber. Given a co-sign by the always on-point BBE and IF Music founder Jean-Claude, the label is now enjoying a retrospective compilation which seeks to celebrate the best of their golden years. Featuring performances by John Stubblefield, Bobby Hutcherson, Harold Land, Don Cherry, Cecil McBee and Pharoah Sanders collaborator Marvin Hannibal Peterson to name but a few, this collection provides a great jumping-off point for Enja's rich and diverse back catalogue. It may only be an introduction to a vast pool of music, but it's curated with authority by a dedicated head, so you know you're getting a shortcut to the best the label has to offer.

Review: Fourth Wave's latest compilation feels like a musical postcard from Japan's vibrant underground, gliding through genres with effortless charm. Mari Nakamoto's 'Day Dreaming' sets a tranquil mood with her airy vocals drifting over soft, dreamy instrumentals. Yudai Suzuki's 'Midnight Calling' brings smoky sax riffs and laid-back grooves, perfect for late-night introspection. Yasuhiro Abe's 'Night Fish' dives into psychedelic waters, swirling with hypnotic melodies and unpredictable rhythms. Maki Asakawa's 'Kohi Hitotsu' radiates raw emotion, her voice rich with longing. Yuji Ozeki's 'Futaribun No Yume' blends traditional Japanese sounds with modern electronics, crafting a sound both timeless and futuristic. Jin Kirigaya's 'Matenro Monogatari' closes the collection with cinematic depth, its sweeping arrangement lingering long after the final note.

Review: Renowned DJ and selector MURO is a Jedi-level compiler and this new collection of his delves into Victor's extensive archives to spotlight a world of Japanese jazz, fusion and AOR. It take sin plenty of internationally known names like Yasuko Agawa on the sunset sounds of 'L.A. Night', Sadistics who offers the more psyched out guitar leans of 'On the Seashore', Yuji Ohno's neo-Balaeric bliss-out 'The Dawn of Seychells' and Hiroshi Fukumura's soul soothing Ry Ayres-style melodies on 'White Clouds.' These are luxurious sounds and timeless tracks with MURO's signature funky perspective making this a brillaint choice for brighter, warmer days.

Review: Gilles Peterson remains a man with his finger firmly on the pulse and this is another album to prove it: International Anthem is a special double compilation highlighting the renowned DJ and curator's deep connection with Chicago's celebrated contemporary jazz label. Featuring selections drawn from Peterson's BBC 6Music, Worldwide FM and syndicated shows, the collection showcases standout tracks from the label's first decade and also included is an exclusive, previously unreleased live recording from Worldwide FM. Pressed on "Frozen Lake Michigan" coloured vinyl, this Record Store Day exclusive is part of International Anthem's "IA11" series-celebrating 11 years by honouring their past while shaping the future of boundary-pushing global sounds.

Review: Working in partnership with Light in the Attic and curated by Grammy-nominated producer, DJ and journalist Kevin Howes this wonderful new collection chronicles a vital musical migration: in late-1960s Toronto, Caribbean immigrants infused the city with ska, rocksteady and reggae and recorded some of the era's toughest tracks. Originators from Studio One, Treasure Isle and Trojan Records all united and broke racial and cultural barriers to build an influential yet under-appreciated Canadian reggae scene that is now showcased with a 20-page booklet with archival images, artist bios and essays on this double vinyl set.

Review: The Three Blind Mice compilation, curated by DJ and producer Tatsuo Sunaga, offers a brilliant overview of the iconic Japanese jazz label's legacy. This double album set brings together some of the most influential tracks from the 1970s and 1980s, highlighting the label's pivotal role in revitalising the Japanese jazz scene. Founded by Takeshi Fujii, TBM aimed to be Japan's answer to Blue Note, and it succeeded by delivering impeccable sound quality and showcasing innovative talent. With standout artists like Tsuyoshi Yamamoto and Isao Suzuki, this compilation features exceptional performances, such as 'Nardis' by Masabumi Kikuchi, 'A Green Caterpillar' by Masaru Imada Trio, and 'Feel Like Makin' Love' by Isao Suzuki Sextet. The selection spans ballads, bebop, and more avant-garde sounds, reflecting the label's diverse offerings. What sets this compilation apart is the meticulous mastering by Isao Kikuchi and cutting by Katsutoshi Kitamura, ensuring the original recordings' clarity is preserved. The gatefold packaging, complete with an OBI strip and liner notes by Takao Ogawa, adds historical depth, making this a great set to have. This collection encapsulates the vibrant spirit of "Wa Jazz" and also shows TBM's profound influence on Japanese jazz.

Review: Disco E Cultura Volume 2 by Portuguese label Mad About Records is a fantastic collection and retrospect into the vibrant dance music landscape of Brazil during the 70s and 80s. Curated by Joaquim Paulo, this compilation delves deep into the soul, funk, disco, boogie, and jazz-funk sounds that defined the era. Featuring a diverse selection of tracks, the album offers a kaleidoscope of colorful, floor-friendly jams adorned with punchy horn lines, classy vocals, and irresistible grooves. Standout highlights include Lafayette's infectious 'Sol De Varao,' Franco's Barrio-funk groove, and Aloisio's jazz-funk gem 'Tema R,' which impresses with its hot-stepping breakbeats and strong synth solos. The second side of the compilation continues the more amazing music with tracks like 'Deixa Rodar' by Hanna, 'Manifesto' by Marilia Barbosa, and 'Fogo Sobre Terra' by Coral Som Livre, each contributing to the rich heritage of Brazilian dance music.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition***


This soundtrack is a classy melange of blues, jazz and rock that all perfectly capture the sultry atmosphere of Dennis Hopper's neo-noir classic of the same name. Set in a small Texas town, the film follows drifter Harry Madox as he becomes entangled in a web of seduction and deceit and the moody cinematography and gripping narrative are elevated by this electrifying score. Legends of their game like Miles Davis, John Lee Hooker, Taj Mahal and Earl Palmer all feature with sparse, eerie and deeply evocative overtones. For that reason, this one is much sought after and has retained its smoky allure 35 years after its original release.

Review: Shrine Records, though a commercial failure in its time, has risen from obscurity to become a holy grail for collectors of rare soul music. Founded in 1964 by Eddie Singleton and Raynoma Gordy, the label's lack of commercial success belied its treasure trove of musical talent. Despite minimal sales, Shrine's twenty singles became highly coveted among collectors, spurred on by their discovery on the Northern Soul scene in the 70s and 80s. The recent resurgence of interest in Shrine Records has led to the rediscovery of hidden gems from artists like the Cautions, Cairos, and Les Chansonettes. Thanks to the efforts of individuals like Eddie Singleton and Ady Croasdell, original master tapes have been retrieved, revealing previously unreleased tracks from artists such as the Prophets and Tippie & the Wisemen. The "Shrine Northern - The 60s Rarest Dance Label" Kent LP, KENT 526, released last year, celebrated the label's legacy. Now, with the release of a 7x7" box set, Shrine's revival continues. Featuring another 14 sides worthy of single releases, this box set is a testament to the enduring allure of Shrine Records and its contribution to the soul music landscape.

Review: Rhythm Section International turns ten this yearia whole decade since Bradley Zero started what seemed like a modest project, spinning out of those infamous Peckham pool hall parties. But modest it was not. In those ten years, Rhythm Section became more than just a label. It became a pulseia defining force in London's music landscape, rippling out across the globe. To celebrate the milestone, Rhythm Section has pulled together something that's as much a reflection as it is a bold step forward: a three-part compilation titled PAST, RE-IMAGINED AND FUTURE. Six discs, 30 tracks, spanning the label's evolution while pointing toward its next era. The first two discs? A dive into history, with one track from each year since 2014ia walk through the archives that pulls out deep cuts and forgotten classics. Then we get into the RE-IMAGINED part, where artists from the label like Ruf Dug, Session Victim, and Private Joy reinterpret past tracks in their own styles. No gimmicksijust raw, playful creativity that breathes new life into the old. And finally, the FUTURE: two discs of brand-new material for 2024. Artists like RONI, Gayance, and Jordan Rakei under his Frank Liin alias step forward to show where the label's heading, blending genres and moods seamlessly. What's special about this release is that it never feels like it's trying too hardiit's a reflection of the organic growth that's made Rhythm Section what it is today. Ten years in, and the label's as forward-thinking, alternative and grounded as ever.

Review: This boxset offers a gold mine of southern soul, funk and r&b, showcasing previously unreleased gems from the iconic Memphis label Goldwax. Kicking off with James Carr's 1969 funk groove, 'Your Love Made A U-Turn', it sets the stage for a collection of tracks that blend gritty southern charm with soulful ballads. The Ovations' 'I Miss You' stands out as a Motor City classic, finally issued on vinyl, while the flip side, 'What Did I Do Wrong'. with its harmonica-driven stomp, is a crowd-pleaser. Goldwax stalwart Barbara Perry contributes a country-soul ballad, 'Welcome Home Baby', a grower that contrasts nicely with her fiery 'A Man Is A Mean Thing'. Willie Walker's early, brass-filled version of 'Lucky Loser' is a highlight, offering a raw southern groove two years before his funked-up Chess recording. The album also features a thrilling mix of soul vocals, including the Lyrics and Vel-Tones' sublime harmonies, and a mysterious track, 'It's Really Alright', that adds an enigmatic touch. Closing with Phillip & The Faithfuls' dramatic ballad and Lee "Shot" Williams' southern rave-up, this collection is robust and enjoyable.

Review: The rather legendary NOW series has done it all throughout its long history - perfect snapshots of the current pop landscape, retro collections of 80s gold, and now it serves up a classic soul selection across no fewer than 10 whole sides of fresh vinyl. With such a huge run time to play with it is no surprise that just about every single conceivable base is covered here and all the major tunes and artist are included. Take your pick from the likes of Ike & Tina Turner, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, Martha Reeves & The Vandellas and many more highlights here.

Review: Ambiances Ambigues shows off the breadth and depth of its talent pool with this new compilation of experimental post-rock, synth and ambient sounds. There is nothing poppy about them despite the title, and in fact in places these sounds bring to mind great composers like Ennio Morricone and John Carpenter, as well as the indie-breaks of UNCLE and plenty more references from the noise and abstract world. It's dense and intense, and a perfect go-to when you want to add something a little different to your rotation.

Review: Landing several months after it was presumably intended to be released (we blame the inevitable vinyl pressing delays), this bustling triple-vinyl set is a sequel to Parisian imprint LoFi Records' Halloween-themed compilation of 2023. Featuring fresh artists delivering spooky-themed tunes - coded with liberal use of sustained organ sounds, jaunty melodies and frequently head-nodding beats - it's a largely instrumental affair packed with tracks that are frequently as melodious and ear-catching as they are horror-tinged. Highlights include the post-air trip-hop shuffle of 'A Pumpkin's Farewell' by Frances The Mute v Lenny B, the DJ Cam-esque headiness of Swink's 'Bloody Night', the sring-laden folk-horror-goes-hip-hop flex of Alto vs Lenny Loops' 'Hollow' and the haunted headiness of Solar Body's 'Hocus Pocus'.

Review: The Road To Hell Is Paved With Good Intentions a rare kind of affirmation, one that has the power to course-correct many a sensitive soul whose 'meaning well' might have more unintended negative consequences than good. It's also exactly the kind of title that London experimental electronic producer Vegyn would choose for a mixtape-album; it inspires a kind of wisdom-starved curiosity in those who might seek to plug that gap via the music of an artist more experienced than they. But in this case, beyond this title, Vegyn has no further wisdom to impart than reams of his signature trip-hop and IDM glossouts, featuring fellow London regulars such as Ethan P. Flynn, Lauren Auder, Lea Sen and John Glacier; the album is transcendent in timbre, seeming to constantly push at the limits of Vegyn's stereotypically snappier and sparser sound.