Jazz charts

Review: The Black Truth Rhythm Band is renowned for its Afrobeat fusion - a sound that very much epitomizes the vibrant spirit of 1970s funk and soul. Their iconic album 'Ifetayo (Love Excels All)' stands as a testament to their musical prowess and social consciousness. It has been fully remastered here with all its pulsating rhythms, infectious brass, and impassioned vocals transcending time to deliver a message of love and unity. Rooted in the African diaspora experience, the band's music serves as a rallying cry for social justice and cultural pride. Ifetayo remains a timeless work that still resonates with audiences worldwide thanks to its potent blend of groove and meaning.

Review: This much loved and on-going series always comes through and the seventh volume in the London Is The Place For Me collection does so once more. It delves into the eclectic soundscape of 1950s and 1960s London, spotlighting the cultural fusion of Caribbean music within the city's bustling streets. Curated with meticulous attention, the album presents a mosaic of genres, from calypso and mento to jazz and ska, reflecting the vibrant immigrant communities shaping post-war Britain. Through captivating rhythms and soulful melodies, it encapsulates tales of migration, resilience, and the quest for identity. Each track is a portal to a bygone era, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of London's multicultural heritage, making it a timeless musical treasure.

Review: London Is The Place For Me 8 invites jazz fans on a vibrant journey through the sounds of 1950s London, where calypso rhythms meet the bustling streets of the city. Released as part of the ongoing compilation series, the album showcases the rich cultural tapestry of post-war Britain through the music of Lord Kitchener, a Trinidadian calypso legend famed for the song that gives the compilation its title. His infectious melodies and witty lyrics paint vivid pictures of immigrant life, celebrating resilience and the pursuit of joy amid adversity. With its irresistible grooves and historical significance, this new double gatefold record via Honest Jons is a testament to the enduring legacy of Caribbean music in the UK.

Review: The seemingly endless list of compilations that Wagram have been working on over the last years keeps on turning out gold. This time after editions looking into tech, soul, house and everything else, they serve up an overview of calypso. Arriving in a lovely gatefold sleeve, this one takes in key tracks by all the masters of this form such as Atilla the Hun, Lord Invader, Sonny Rollins Four, Mighty Panther and Henri Debs Sextet & Paul Blamar in a selection that will have you feeling the sun on your face in no time.