Big Crown US Vinilo y CD

Review: They're best known for covering hip-hop classics in their unique, funk band plus steel pans vibe, but Germany's Bacao Rhythm & Steel Band show there are spookier arrows in their quiver when the time of year demands it. Two special halloween themed cover versions grace this 7", the first a rendition of the theme from TV show of the moment 'Stranger Things', the second their version of the title theme from the film 'Halloween', originally penned by the master soundtrack maker himself John Carpenter. Both have a slightly cheeky, quirky and rather joyful atmosphere, tending more towards the cute rather than the spooky side of all hallows, but don't let their lack of scariness put you off, they're both delightful.010920

Review: Bacao Rhythm & Steel Band, the mysterious steel pan outfit from Hamburg, have amassed a cult following around the globe. With a slew of classic 7"s and three critically acclaimed full length albums, they set a high bar for themselves, one which they clearly intend on pushing to even higher heights with this new offering. On their fourth album BRSB, Bacao return with more of the same, but more of the same with them is of course inherently different. Covering songs that span genres, and range from mega-hits to underground album cuts, they make them their own with their unique approach to the traditional steel pans of Trinidad and Tobago. While part of the allure of a new Bacao Rhythm & Steel Band album is finding out what covers they choose, it is equally intriguing to see what original tunes they've cooked up alongside these, and this record is foul of standout originals. from 'In The Crosshairs' to 'Grilled' to 'Treasure Quest'.

Review: Unfairly labelled as a novel curio when they first emerged, the Bacao Rhythm & Steel Band is a genuine expression of Mighty Mocambos man Bjorn Wagner's love of Trinidadian steel pan music. Their tracks - often, but not always, quirky cover versions - combined authentic funk instrumentation (drums, bass, guitar, horns) with the timeless and distinctive sound of steel drums. BRSB, the combo's fourth album, is another summery and effortlessly entertaining treat. Highlights include the inspired 'Love For The Sake of Dub' (an organic interpretation of Claudja Barry's slo-mo disco classic 'Love For The Sake of Love'), the breaker-friendly cheeriness and heaviness of 'Grilled', a wonderfully woozy and dubbed out stroll through the 'Stranger Things Theme', and the summer sunshine of 'Champion's Walk'.

Review: Bacao Rhythm & Steel Band is an enigmatic steel pan collective from Hamburg that has a hardcore fan following around the world and a new album on the way that is superb. They are loved for their covers of hip-hop classics and last year served up a version of the Stranger Things theme tune but this time out we get 'Love For The Sake Of Dub' of 45 rpm. It is another pair of funky tunes with the signature brass sounds front and centre as the fat bottom rhythms roll deep and fleshy. Another gem from this leftfield outfit.

Review: Big Crown Records is proud to present Zero Grace, Liam Bailey's sophomore album on the label. Following the success of 2020's Ekundayo album, the tried and true chemistry of Bailey and producer Leon Michels (El Michels Affair) is on full display again as they take the sound they established and push it further. On Zero Grace they lean more into the bleeding heart singer-songwriter side of Liam. The album is full of freedom and love; working with Leon Michels and Big Crown Records has encouraged Liam to be himself. On opener 'Holding On', Bailey speaks to his observations & fears when looking out at the world in front of him and also to the dedication it has taken to get on the other side of his personal trials & tribulations. 'Dance With Me', meanwhile, is an instantly infectious two-stepper that nods to those incredible soul records that were coming out of Jamaica during the early reggae days. Bailey addresses the racial tensions that plague humanity and encourages everyone to step up and do their part to help foster equality. What starts out as a declaration of injustice turns into a call for action and an inspiration for hope.

Review: Huzzah! New music from Liam Bailey, who has voiced a couple of the most gorgeous reggae, soul and dub fusion 7"s we've got in our collection in recent years. He has, we're told, recently been recording a new album and the two tunes pressed up here on Big Crown are taken from it. El Michels Affair man Leon Michels is the go-to producer once more for Bailey and they strike gold as always with 'Dance With Me'. It is a hella catchy two-stepper that harks back to the earliest days of reggae. On the flip, 'Mercy Tree' has hard-hitting drums and big horns that come with a powerhouse vocal that speaks of racial tensions that sadly persist throughout the world. It's a standup jam with a potent message.

Review: We have always got time for new heat from Big Crown and that's just what we have here from Brainstory. This trio of artists take cues from the label's co-owner Leon Michels and his work interpreting the Wu-Tang but with this own energy. They dropped a first EP back in 2014 and since then have looked to jazz, hip-hop old and new, soul and cinematic opulence for their inspiration. This new 7" comes as the outfit is finishing off its second full length and is a fine taster of what to expect with a show stopping two-sider that will soon find its way into you heart.

Review: Big Crown does it again here with another magical 7" this time from Dave Guy, who has contributed to plenty of this label but only now makes his solo debut. It finds him working with label regulars Homer Steinweiss & Nick Movshon, who take care of production and play on the recordings. 'Footwork' is a vibrant fusion of soul, funk, and jazz that, as a trumpeter for the renowned band The Dap-Kings, brings his distinctive style to the forefront and infuses each track with infectious energy and groove. Dynamic horn arrangements, tight rhythms, and soulful melodies all make this one special and show just how skilled a musician Guy is, and apparently, there is plenty more to come.

Review: There are a whole host of soul talents on display on this new and limited edition 7" from Big Crown. Lady Wray, Les Imprimes & Surprise Chef all combine their forces for the gorgeously lo-fi and authentic soul single that is 'Come On In.' It has heart-aching vocals and a slow, heavy beat that is raw as you like. It is presented first as a Les Imprimes remix that makes a devastating emotional impact, and then as a Surprise Chef remix which is a little less heavy and more upbeat, with prickly drums and uplifting energy.

Review: Thee Heart Tones, Big Crown Records' newest addition, showcase their youthful exuberance and musical prowess on their debut single. Recorded at Diamond West Studio with producers Leon Michels and Tommy Brenneck, the band delivers a captivating performance on both tracks. 'Forever & Ever' is an infectious, feelgood anthem with lead singer Jazmine Alvarado's captivating vocals soaring over the band's lively groove. The song's catchy chorus is bound to linger in listeners' minds long after the music stops. On the B-side, their rendition of the classic 'Sabor A Mi' demonstrates their versatility and skill, with Jazmine's vocals shining once again. Thee Heart Tones have made a promising entrance into the music scene, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating their forthcoming debut album.