Strut Vinilo y CD

Review: It's been nearly ten years since the first release of Orlando Julius and The Heliocentrics' first ever collaborative album, Jaiyede Afro, which did thorough justice to the creative possibilities of Nigerian Afrobeat that arguably haven't been represented so well since Fela Kuti's last releases. Deft rhythms, and loosely-laid-down layers of guitar and horn, ride over each other like harmonious, health-giving backings for life across this short statement of nine tracks. Now reissued via Strut, we're reminded of its spiritual mood of tricky electronics and wahhing ambiences, as it slowly expands outwards into a holistic psychedelia, more than the some of its easily discernible parts.

Review: Long Island's finest, the Lafayette Afro Rock Band, formed firstly as the Bobby Boyd Congress and then renamed themselves Ice; only after a string of travails and a return to the US after a long stint in France did they rename themselves the Lafayettes. Soul Makossa came a long while after this renaming; their second album is packed with the same Boyd-centric hallmarks, from bulbous Rhodeses, cowbells and wahs through to riffing funk fantastics, culminating in the peak sonic movements that are 'Hihache' and 'Nicky'.

Review: The Lafayette Afro Rock Band's superb Malik is a vibrant fusion of funk, soul and Afrobeat rhythms that was initially released in 1974 and now, alongside some of their other works, is getting reissued. The iconic track album showcases the band's infectious energy and dynamic instrumentation. It is packed with driving basslines, intricate percussion and hypnotic grooves that captivate from start to finish and transport you to the heart of a steamy dance floor. The band's mastery of blending African and Western musical elements shines through to make for an enduring musical document that is still widely celebrated for its infectious rhythms and influence on the funk and Afrobeat genres.

Review: Patrice Rushen's album from1982, Straight From The Heart,' is a real landmark, It now gets presented as a definitive version by Strut. It was made during a period when the original label were striving to make 'sophisticated dance music.' Mission accomplished. This is an album packed with high class arrangements and disco and boogie stylings along with great musicianship. Patrcei's own vocals explore a broader range than ever before, and singles from the seminal album included 'Breakout!', 'Number One' and the most ionic of them all, 'Forget Me Nots'. The album overall had huge success, was a Billboard Chart hit and became a regular source for samples in the world of hip hop and R&B as well as picking up a Grammy nomination.

Review: Patrice Rushen's Remind Me: The Classic Elektra Recordings 1978-1984 celebrates the unmatched talent of a jazz and r&b legend whose influence extends far beyond her chart success. Rushen's songs, including hits like 'Forget Me Nots' and 'Haven't You Heard,' have left an indelible mark on popular music, with countless artists sampling her work. Despite facing criticism and lackluster label support, Rushen's crossover into sophisticated urban pop paved the way for future R&B and hip-hop hits. This compilation shows Rushen's talents as a musician and arranger, with her production providing the building blocks for decades of musical innovation. Tracks like 'Givin' It Up Is Givin' Up' and 'Remind Me' highlight Rushen's electrifying performances and innovative sound. Rushen's timeless music remains as relevant and influential as ever, cementing her status as a true icon of musical innovation and creativity.

Review: Originally released back in 2001, there's a reason why Strut have reissued Nigeria 70: The Definitive Story Of 1970's Funky Lagos so many times; it's superb and totally lives up to the title! if you've not yet indulged in the compilation, this 2012 triple vinyl pressing is the even more definitive edition. With the vinyl now pressed on heavyweight 180g wax, this makes for the perfect introduction into the vivid story of 1970s West African funk. Well done Strut!