Timmion Finland Vinilo y CD

Review: Following a string of singles on Timmion and its lesser-celebrated Stylart Records offshoot, Jonny Benavidez offers up his debut album, My Echo, Shadow & Me. In keeping with Timmion's successful formula, Benavidez is accompanied by the label's sensational (and undeniably authentic-sounding) house band, Cold Diamond & Mink, for a stroll through alternatively loved-up, heartbroken and irresistibly funky soul songs inspired by records from the 1960s. It's a winning formula all told, made even more special and rewarding not by Cold Diamond & Mink's backing and production - which is as good as ever - but the sensationally soulful and sensitive nature of Benavidez's voice.

Review: This is a clear vinyl version, though we also have the black 7", of the latest from Finland's leading jazz label. It's a great return for Bronze, Silver & Brass as they again blend brass, guitar and funky drums for a thrilling fusion of funk, soul and jazz. The A-side delivers fast-paced, cinematic funk reminiscent of 1970s chase scenes and all driven by tight guitar riffs and breakbeat rhythms. On the flip side, 'Brass In Motion' offers a mellow, mid-tempo groove with jazzy undertones and a lyrical, laid-back charm. Together, these tracks showcase the band's knack for infectious, instrumental funk of the highest order.

Review: Talk about being truly timeless. Chicano soul sensation Johnny Benavidez is the kind of artist who can figuratively, and spiritually, transport listeners to a golden age of Doo Wop, funk, and R&B, writing tracks and songs that glide on a smooth, easy listening cloud but still pack plenty of bite when it comes to the nitty gritty. Music to move you in many ways. Grandson of John Lorenzo Guzman (background vocalist for Sonny Powell & The Night-Dreamers), this relationship has a lot to answer for, with Pa encouraging Jr to take up singing and pursue music seriously. We're glad that happened, given My Echo Shadow & Me - a two tracker that could almost be considered retro or pastiche, if it didn't sound so damned fresh. Or at least ageless.

Review: Since making his debut back in the early 1990s, Carlton Jumel Smith has periodically popped up on a variety of soulful house and modern soul releases. Here the little-known vocalist takes a different approach, re-casting himself as a throaty, James Brown influenced '70s soul singer. He's at his heartfelt, full-throttle best on "Can't Love You Any More", a deliciously heavy and authentic chunk of Southern-fried deep soul complete with additional falsetto parts from fellow singer Pratt. The key to the track's success is the fantastic backing provided by Cold Diamond & Mink. Proof is provided on the flip via the band's effortlessly good instrumental take.

Review: Emilia Sisco is a rising star on the revered Timmion Records and here graces us with another soulful ballad. Teaming up with in house greats Cold Diamond & Mink, she delivers 'Let Me In,' which is a deep soul gem that effortlessly drifts over a southern-influenced beat with melodic finesse. The spine-tingling chorus with its nuanced twists showcase Emilia's remarkable talent to evoke a timeless, bittersweet love that washes over the listener like the Mississippi River. On the flip side, her previous single 'Love Can Carry Me' comes as an instrumental titled 'Way Past Midnight' and featuring a jazzy Grant Green-style guitar.

Review: Emilia Sisco's debut album, Introducing Emilia Sisco on Timmion Records, dives into the world of vintage soul with ten original tracks co-written with the acclaimed Cold Diamond & Mink band. Now we get two singles from it on a vital and indie exclusive clear 7" including the gospel-soul groove of 'Your Girl' to the heartfelt 'Too Late,' both songs reflect her deep connection to soul's emotional roots with gentle but uplifting vocals alongside lush, organic arrangements. Sisco's voice effortlessly layers harmonies that merge classic soul with a modern touch to create a sound that feels both timeless and new.

Review: Emilia Sisco's latest 7" vinyl single is a stunning tribute to the enduring charm of vintage soul music. Backed by the renowned Timmion Records house band Cold Diamond & Mink, Sisco delivers a standout double-sided record that captivates from start to finish. On the Side-1, 'Lemon Lime Sour,' Sisco's dynamic vocals glide effortlessly over infectious crossover soul rhythms, crafting an irresistible groove that celebrates the complex emotions of love. The track's upbeat energy beckons listeners to dance along while embracing its uplifting message. Flipping to Side-2 reveals 'Love Can Carry Me,' a soulful beat ballad that highlights Sisco's evolution as both a songwriter and vocalist. With its poignant lyrics and haunting melodies, the song creates an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners into its introspective tale of resilience and optimism. In today's uncertain climate, these two tracks embody the essence of heartfelt, groove-driven music created by genuine artists. Pairing Sisco's remarkable vocal ability with Cold Diamond & Mink's expert musicality, this new single promises to please soul music lovers worldwide.

Review: Emilia Sisco's latest 7" single is a testament to the timeless allure of vintage soul music. Backed by the esteemed Timmion Records house band Cold Diamond & Mink, Sisco delivers a stellar double-sider that captivates the listener from start to finish. A-sider 'Lemon Lime Sour' hears Sisco's spirited vocals soar over infectious crossover soul terrain, crafting an irresistible groove that celebrates the bittersweet feeling of falling in love. Meanwhile, the flip reveals the B-side, 'Love Can Carry Me', a soul-stirring beat ballad that flaunts Sisco's growth both as a songwriter and a vocalist. The song's emotive lyrics and dark melodies create an intimate atmosphere, drawing listeners into its introspective narrative of resilience and hope.

Review: Jimi Tenor's collaboration with Cold Diamond and Mink on Is There Love In Outer Space made for a superb album that plays out like a transcendental trip. Now come two of the best tunes from it on this special limited edition yellow 7". The title track captivates with its galactic balladry, while 'Orbiting Telesto' is a super sweet cosmic voyage with celestial keys and warming vocal coos that add extra soul. This is music that takes you off the blue planet and up amongst interstellar bodies for a smooth and seductive excursion.

Review: Jimi Tenor's upcoming album July Blue Skies on Timmion Records is previewed with this single which offers two contrasting moods. 'Summer of Synesthesia' captures dreamy summer vibes and sounds that transform into rich colours and flavours. The track features building synths over Cold Diamond & Mink's rhythm with Tenor's soft vocals adding beauty. On the flip side, 'Tsicroxe' begins with a haunting organ arpeggio evoking a Dario Argento-inspired atmosphere. Cold Diamond & Mink's funk provides relief, but Tenor's eerie flute solo intensifies the ritualistic vibe.

Review: Jimi Tenor's first single from his upcoming new Timmion album Is There Love In Outer Space? evokes the 1980s cosmic sound of Nigerian keyboardist Mamman Sani. The psychedelic desert blues guitar solo transports listeners to a cold Sahara dune where you witness a magical sunrise on Earth. It encourages you to close your eyes and let the music paint vivid colourscapes in your mind as the minimal vocals feel like a welcoming chant for the rising sun. This collaboration between Tenor and Cold Diamond & Mink is another delight that melds cosmic and raw soul music and very much gets us excited for the full length to come.