Review: Mad Black Latin Combo featuring Nick Kurusawa brings a delightful single with Say You Love Me Girl, released on Diguma Doughnuts from Japan. This 7" gem merges many styles and influences into one. On Side-1, 'Say You Love Me Girl' showcases a smooth and soulful blend of styles, highlighted by powerful vocal performance. It's a track that effortlessly bridges different musical influences, creating an engaging and catchy pop hit. Underneath it all, you have funk, salsa and disco all blending into a classy gem. Side-2 offers 'Say You Love Me Girl' (Mad Black Remix), which takes a more atmospheric and melodic approach. This remix transforms the track into a chilled-out, laid-back version, providing a fresh and relaxing alternative. This release combines energetic vibes with a smooth, sophisticated twist.
Mariah & The Machine - "All I Want For Xmas Is A Dog"
Run Winston - "Wonderful Christmas In Hollis"
Review: Get ready for the ultimate holiday mash-up here as this fun 7" brings together two festive anthems that will light up your turntables, and the party. First, Mariah and her Machine deliver a cheeky twist on 'All I Want for Christmas is a Dog' by reminding us that owning a canine is a lifelong commitment. On the flip side, Winston puts a fresh spin on Run-D.M.C.'s 'Christmas in Hollis' by giving it a vibrant Queens New York makeover. With ill reindeers and Jam Master Sleigh, this record is sure to deck the halls and add some serious holiday cheer to your collection.
Review: The Breaks and Beats label kicks on with a 31st instalment of magical sound that will inject soul and funk into any party and keep working DJs well stocked with heat this winter. First up on this limited 7" is The Webs with 'It's So Hard To Break A Habit', a slow and sentimental sound with aching v vocal harmonies and gentle rhythms laced with melancholic melodies. Gamith's 'Darkness' picks up the energy levels with some more bristling breaks and live drum sounds, funky vocal stylings and psyched-out guitar lines.
Review: The second Shuggy Edits 7" to hit the shelves in 2024, and the fifth overall, this esteemed edits series by the otherwise mysterious Shuggy nonetheless makes for one of the most in-demand around. This time we've two further funk and soul come bombastic hip-hop edits to contend with: first up is a version of Baby Huey's 'Hard Times', a tromboning 1971 strut by the American singer whose sole LP for Curtom Records was instrumental in the development of hip-hop; Shuggy lends the a harder, steeple-high, needlepoint edit-edge. This is further teased out on the B-side, whose 'Harder Times' hears a phat breakbeat and brass bass parp further teased out to frighteningly formidable effect.
Review: This 7" vinyl marks the inauguration of the new Konbini Klassics label and it features expertly curated city pop and funk gems from Japan's golden era. The A-side offers 1983's 'Do What You Do' which is a relaxed synth-driven track with irresistibly catchy vocals. On the B-side you can enjoy the sounds of Cosmos, the all-female supergroup who deliver their slap-funk classic 'Midnight Shuffle' with its big horns, funky bass and twinkling synth melodies. A perfect 45 rpm gem, this release brings Japan's iconic sounds back to life and then some.
Review: Leroy Hutson is an American singer and songwriter revered by lovers of soul, dub and r&b. He's dropped countless hits which have long been favourites of deep crate diggers, and for this one, he switched things up quite literally in terms of the alias he used. The tunes are as killer as always with 'Butter Fat' pairing some free jazz melody with twisted funky basslines and organic percussion over funky drums. On the flip, 'Feel The' gets more soulful and laced with melody as big energy comes from the piano vamps. Two killers.
Review: Al Hudson & The Soul Partners' 'Spread Love' remains a cornerstone of Disco, emerging as a highlight from their 1978 album Spreading Love on ABC Records. This track, which has seen numerous covers and samples over the decades, is now officially licensed and remastered for the first time in 46 years by South Street Disco. The release offers a fresh perspective on this classic, with the A-side presenting the extended intro version as heard on the original album, while the B-side features the 1978 12" single version that plunges directly into the groove. This remastered edition not only celebrates the track's enduring legacy but also provides an opportunity for both new listeners and long-time fans to experience it anew.
Review: Light's Out's 'Take It' comes on a special limited and numbered 7" via Soul 7/Jazzman and is a striking blend of raw soul and infectious rhythm. With its groovy, foot-tapping beat, the track channels the energy of 60s and 70s funk while showcasing the band's powerful, emotive vocals and tight instrumentation. Both tracks here are perfectly direct and packed with heat for any dance floor and bring such irresistible sounds that music lovers of all persuasions are going to be enamoured by what they hear.
Review: Say She She's latest festive offering becomes even more irresistible with this special opaque dark purple vinyl edition. The A-side reimagines Marvin Gaye's 'Purple Snowflakes,' wrapping cascading piano lines and delicate harmonies in a mood that's equal parts nostalgic and otherworldly. On the B-side, their first original holiday tune, 'This Wintertime,' evokes warmth and intimacy, celebrating the simple joy of togetherness. Pressed on this stunning coloured vinyl, the release pairs perfectly with its timeless sound, offering collectors and fans alike something truly special for the season.
Review: Dangerous Goods bring fresh energy to I Travel to You with 'Wish,' reshaping a 2001 r&b track through the lens of street soul. The A-side thrives on a punchy bassline, crisp 808 drums, and a newly recorded vocal, giving it a sleek, modern flair. For the Deepest Dub mix, the track slows down, cut to tape and drenched in the bass-heavy influence of late 80s and early 90s breaks. It's a dual homage, blending nostalgic grooves with bold, contemporary production.
Review: Recorded following the release of his near-perfect What's Going On Album, with production and arrangement by the Mizell brothers, 'Where Are We Going?' was one of Marvin Gaye's most prophetic singles. Another conscious soul gem - albeit one with a warmer and fuller sound than the distinctively sparse What's Going On album - it was intended to be the centre piece of an album called You're The Man - a set that was subsequently shelved and eventually posthumously released many years later. This Expansion 7" reissue replicates the track listing of the original Motown "45", pairing the brilliant 'Where Are We Going' with the heartfelt and life-affirming celebration of female empowerment that is 'Woman of the World'. An essential reissue!
Review: Mako & Mr Bristow return with Stank Soul Edits Vol. 7, delivering two soul-infused sister-funk tracks. 'One Sweet Bomb' enhances the original's arrangement with added bass and drum elements, aligning it with the golden age of soul. On the flip side, 'Why Do You Bass Me Up?' transforms an uptempo funk pieceioriginally lacking a basslineiinto a dancefloor-ready banger, thanks to contributions from former Big Boss Man bassist, The Hawk.
This duo really know how to revitalise classic sounds for contemporary audiences.
Review: Small Changes is the eagerly-anticipated follow-up to Michael Kiwanuka eponymous third LP, Kiwanuka. Produced alongside soul, hip-hop and pop production legends Danger Mouse and Inflo, Small Changes was recorded between London and LA, with this core triumvirate nonetheless expanding further into an assembly of session musical delegates, including legendary bassist Pino Palladino, as well as Jimmy Jam of the iconic Jam And Lewis songwriting and production duo. A welcome return for one of Britain's most talented songwriters, vocalists, and guitarists.
Review: Groovadelica is a New Zealand-based record label that comes through now with its third offering in the form of this 7" from young and fast-rising new artist Soul Prophet. His 'Back To Dilla' features the buttery tones of UK soul sensation Omar and pays tribute to the great beat maker that was the late J Dilla. It's a jam full of dusty beats and jazzy key samples with a laid-back and late-night feel. The lush flute sounds come from Nathan Haines with extra tabla for even more musical richness. This one has already been getting plays from the likes of Gilles Peterson, Patrick Forge and Mr. Thing so expect to hear it plenty more this winter.
Do You Feel Like I Feel (feat Gregory Porter) (3:44)
Love & Revolution (feat Melanie Charles) (3:27)
Here (feat Jose James) (3:54)
I’m The Air (feat Veronika Harcsa) (4:06)
Scarborough Fair (feat Alice Ricciardi) (3:57)
Shiva (feat Melanie Charles) (5:24)
Quiet Dawn (feat Melanie Charles) (4:41)
Ra In Egypt (feat Ghalia Benali) (4:00)
Freedom Day (feat Nailah Porter) (5:11)
Ghana (feat Gregory Porter) (5:10)
Temple Of Far East (feat Jose James) (6:08)
All Praises To Allah (4:29)
The Happiness Tree (feat Veronika Harcsa) (4:28)
Love From The Sun (feat Jose James & Nailah Porter) (4:30)
Black Spirits (feat Nailah Porter) (5:40)
The Black Apostles (4:47)
Forest Flower (5:32)
Review: The opening track on this LP sets the tone perfectly, with Gregory Porter's unmistakable voice bringing a nostalgic groove to the forefront. His rich, soulful delivery is matched by a supporting cast that includes Jose James, whose jazzy flair complements Porter's performance effortlessly. The music takes you on a journey, moving through soulful rhythms, jazz-inspired melodies and r&b hooks, with each track feeling timeless yet current. There's a warmth and ease throughout, as the artists build layers of sound that invite you in and keep you there, making it an album that begs for repeated listens.
James Brown - "Funky Men" (Dimitri From Paris Special version) (6:13)
The JB's - "Just Wanna Make You Dance" (feat Maxxi - Dimitri From Paris Special version) (6:48)
Review: Dimitri From Paris returns with a fresh installment of his celebrated DFP Vaults series, highlighting deep cuts that reinforce his status as a top-tier remixer, DJ, and a true connoisseur of dance music's hidden gems. This release holds particular significance for Dimitri, as it pays homage to the legendary James Brown, a figure whose influence in music is beyond measure. The release features Dimitri's 'Special Version' of 'Funky Men,' a track from James Brown's Soul Syndrome. Originally overlooked by Dimitri in 1981, it now shines with a unique disco beat that he's reimagined using both vintage and modern editing techniques. The track has already proven its power on the dance floor. On the flip side, Dimitri revisits 'Just Wanna Make You Dance' by The J.B.'s, featuring Maxxi. This rare disco track, with its Caribbean flair, gets Dimitri's expert touch, enhancing its dancefloor appeal. DFP Vaults, the sister label to Le-Edits Records, presents this release with meticulous attention to detail, featuring state-of-the-art mastering and vintage-inspired packaging.
Review: A rare groove treasure trove from Sweet Charles, this new collection brings together three standout tracks that are sure to delight collectors and fans alike. First up is 'I Like It Like That,' making its vinyl debut after years of anticipation. Then there's 'Soul Man,' originally released on a 7" styrene pressing back in the 70s and now ready for a fresh spin. Rounding out the set is the sunshine club anthem 'Yes It's You,' a bona fide mover that still lights up dancefloors. For rare groove aficionados, this is a must-have release, capturing Sweet Charles at his soulful best.
Review: Some labels deal only in pristine soul legitness - and Celestial Echo are one such set of aesthetes. A reissues label, Celestial Echo focuses on modern soul and boogie, and is curated by Miche (Michael Davies) and Stu Clark. Following three impressively chosen sonic chrisms, all reissued in 2024 - releases by Glenda McLeod, Brutal Force and Winfield Parker - comes this fourth foray into one of the best-loved and perhaps only publicly known tunes by the obscure boogie singer Lisa Hill: 'I Am On The Real Side'. New York's Qit Records were the original purveyors of this track, though its initial obscurity is so baffling to us that we'd guess some case of derelict nobility was at play here; either that, or there was just this much amazing soul music being made in the big city at the time! Here, Hill proclaims her place on the right side of love, with a lyrical emphasis on the object of her passions proving themself to her before she submits.
Review: For fans of classic soul like Lee Fields and Bobby Oroza, Kelly Finnigan's latest 45 is a pure delight. On the A-side, an upbeat Northern soul-inspired track from A Lover Was Born pulses with raw emotionisyncopated guitars and brass-powered intensity back Finnigan's story of a love in crisis. The B-side adds a bonus cut, evoking the 60s soul vibe of Stax Records with a deep, minor-key groove. Here, gospel-tinged harmonies and moody horns underscore Finnigan's heartache, capturing a timeless feel with modern passion.
Wie Schon Du Bist (feat Armin Teutoburg-weiss & The Dusseldorf Dusterboys) (3:46)
Amor (feat Cesar Lacerda) (3:43)
Review: DJ Koze teams up with Arnim and the Dusseldorf Dusterboys to craft an evocative tribute to East German soul icon Holger Biege. Building around the haunting line "Du hast erzahlt, gelacht / Mir gezeigt, wie schon du bist" from Biege's 1978 classic 'Bleib doch', Koze creates a track rich in both nostalgic warmth and forward-looking soundscapes. This release showcases Koze's unique ear for blending past and present, turning Biege's heartfelt lyrics into a fresh, emotional journey that pays homage to a timeless soul legacy with a truly modern twist.
Review: Say She She bring soulful magic to the holidays with two tracks that effortlessly combine tradition and originality. Their cover of Marvin Gaye's 'Purple Snowflakes' brims with soft, tumbling melodies and an understated psychedelic charm, while 'This Wintertime' radiates with the heartfelt warmth of their first original Christmas tune. Lush harmonies and thoughtful arrangements define both tracks, reminding us of music's power to connect and uplift. This festive 7" single captures the spirit of the season in Say She She's signature style.
Review: Side-1's 'Can't Call My Baby', highlights the powerful lead vocals of Adriana Flores, taken from the full length debut of Thee Sinseers, which has already amassed nearly seven million streams on Spotify within just three months. Flores delivers a stunning performance, effortlessly conveying the song's emotional depth. On Side-2, the band unveils 'Take A Chance', a fresh and unreleased track. This song showcases Joey Quinones' signature crooning, as he encourages listeners to embrace love while they still can. The track's soulful harmonica adds a vibrant touch, seamlessly merging classic Motown influences with Latin soul rhythms. Together, these tracks exemplify Thee Sinseers' unique sound and artistic range, blending nostalgia with contemporary flair. Thee Sinseers continue to impress with their ability to capture the complexities of love through their melodic storytelling.
Review: Late Night Tuff Guy has long since proven his credentials as a master of the cheeky edit. He now mints his own new label Tuff Cuts with a first EP of what will surely be many. It features two reworks hand picked by the man himself and then pressed on 12". The first is a dancefloor ready rework of the Bill Withers classic 'Lovely Day' with a nice rolling groove and plenty of the original's charm still in tact. Things get more sultry and seductive on the soul drench and more slow motion sounds of 'Love About' on the flip. It's a real beauty for the end of the night moments when love is in the air.
Review: Aretha Franklin's soul anthem 'Respect' is arguably a record that doesn't need tampering with, though over the years there have certainly been some successful revisions - not least a B-More inspired take that dominated clubs in the early 2000s. On this single-sided 12", Matt Early and Lee Jefferies deliver their 'Expand Your Mind' remix - a funky, chunky and driving house interpretation that loops up key sections of Franklin's familiar vocals over a bed of bustling beats, rubbery bass guitar, warming chords and mazy, P-funk style synth solos. Throw in some well-crafted breakdowns and build-ups and you have a guaranteed winner that shows plenty of respect (sorry) to the peerless original.
Review: The iconic soul anthem receives a fresh spin in the Lockdown remix, offering a vibrant, dancefloor-ready twist on the beloved classic. The remix maintains the smooth, emotive essence of Al Green's original while injecting a pulsating, upbeat rhythm that elevates the track to modern club standards. The seamless blend of lush instrumentation and contemporary beats enhances the groove, making it irresistible for both longtime fans and new listeners. This 12" version brings a fresh energy, keeping the soulful heart intact while adding a dynamic, infectious edge that's perfect for today's dancefloors.
Review: REPRESS ALERT!: King Most is a revered American edit and remix master who is back with yet another big vinyl drop. This one is the first on his own new KM label and has already, we're told, been getting some high-profile plays from the likes of A-Trak. The A-side pairs off two epic classics - 'Bam Bam Tom Tom Club' has that languid, ass-wiggling groove you know and love with a twisted reggae vocal to make for something brilliantly original. The B, meanwhile, is a vinyl-only exclusive packed with Jamaican sunshine. 'Reggae For Roy' is perfectly organic and horizontal with its new reggae beat delivered under a classic Roy Ayers vocal.
Review: Oooh! Angie Stone's "Wish I Didn't Miss You" definitely belongs in the canon of all time modern soul classics. Taken from her 2001 second album Mahogany Soul, the Swizz Beats produced track made optimum usage of an O' Jays sample and was instrumental in that LP going gold and propelling the former D'Angelo collaborator to stardom. It also inspired countless official and under the counter remixes with Blaze's perhaps the most recognisable. So yes this reissue on 7" from Outta Sight is worthy if you don't have the original in your collection and features a housed up remix from Hex Hector on the flip.
Review: Late Nite Tuff Guy's Soul Cut #04 offers three expertly crafted edits that breathe new life into classic 70s tracks, blending disco, jazz, funk, and pop into a seamless listening experience. On Side-1, 'Beijo' sets the tone with a smooth, disco-infused reimagining of Earth, Wind & Fire's classic interlude. The track has a light funk undercurrent, creating a vibe that's perfect for dancing all night, with a Balearic twist that adds a fresh touch to the original. Side-2 kicks off with 'Sunshine,' a tasteful edit of Roy Ayers' iconic 'Everyone Loves the Sunshine.' Late Nite Tuff Guy maintains the soulful essence of the original while adding his own groove, making it a perfect summer anthem. The EP closes with 'U Got It Bad,' a rendition of Stevie Wonder's 'You've Got It Bad Girl,' reworked into a smooth, jazzy track that's both nostalgic and timeless. An excellent 12" for fans of classic disco, funk and jazz, with a modern twist.
Review: Hot on the heels of his acclaimed sophomore album A Lover Was Born, Kelly Finnigan makes a quick return with this soul-packed 7". The A-side, 'Get A Hold Of Yourself,' is a Northern soul-inspired stomper that channels the raw emotion of Memphis soul with heavy drums, syncopated guitars, bold horns and Finnigan's impassioned vocals. It tells the story of a rocky relationship where emotional strain disrupts physical connection then the B-side is a fresh bonus cut from the A Lover Was Born sessions inspired by Barbara & The Browns' Stax classic 'Hurts Me So Much'. It's a moody groove with gospel-infused vocals.
Monsieur Van Pratt Le Groove - "El Rap Clap O" (Regroove) (4:40)
Bully Boy - "Fear'n'Loathing In Funk Vegas" (4:34)
Ben Jamin - "Old Time Feeling" (4:50)
Review: French funk lovers Acts of Sedition roll out another tasty double 7" here that features some massive joints from around the world. First up is the Latin heat of Rare Cuts's 'Amigo Bracno' with its big, bright leads, string lushness and percolating, percussive groove goodness all finished with a great Portuguese vocal. Monsieur Van Pratt Le Groove's 'El Rap Clap O' (Regroove) hits a little harder but with similar funk playfulness and some great chord work and Bully Boy then offers the raw and strident funk of 'Fear'n'Loathing In Funk Vegas.' Ben Jamin slows it right down with the sun-kissed late night bliss of 'Old Time Feeling.'
Review: Italian twosome Gino and Dino (that's G&D to you and me) have released some of the most on-point and well-crafted re-edits of recent times. Their EPs are always worth a look, and this one - the first of two featuring other editors alongside the popular duo - is no exception. They begin on side A with 'PeeGee870', a fine version of a low-slung, synth-sporting Italian disco chugger from (we think) the turn of the 1980s, before moving on to the eyes closed disco bliss of 'understanding', where heady lead vocals and sweeping orchestration catches the ear. Over on side B, the previous unheard G.Bros and In.an offer up their 'Balearic' edit of 'Polpette', joining the dots between laidback, loved-up disco, quirky Balearic colour and huggable dancefloor lusciousness.
Review: Jarrod Lawson's latest release pairs his soulful stylings with the dynamic vocals of Raquel Rodriguez in 'Next Move,' a nostalgic yet fresh r&b slow jam. Channeling the feel of classic 90s ballads, the track explores a charged intrigue between two strangers with a blend of innocence and allure. Years in the making, this collaboration reveals each artist's strengths, weaving a groove that feels timeless. Released via Dome Records, 'Next Move' is set to be a highlight of this year, merging retro influences with contemporary energy.
Review: With Introducing Emilia Sisco, Sisco steps into the spotlight backed by Cold Diamond & Mink, spanning ten tracks that hit that rare sweet spot between classic soul vibes and a refined, modern polish. Each song feels meticulously crafted, from the smoky, gospel-inflected swing of 'Say Yes' that opens the album, to the heartfelt sway of 'Don't Let Nobody,' where Sisco's vocals radiate warmth and vulnerability. Cold Diamond & Mink's arrangements anchor Sisco's expressive range, laying down rich, textured backdrops that ebb and flow with her every note. As the album progresses, Sisco's voice weaves through uplifting choruses and more introspective moments with an authenticity that's all her own, cementing her as a powerful new voice in the soul scene and offering listeners a journey that's timeless yet undeniably fresh.
Keni Burke - "Risin' To The Top" (A Mike Maurro mix) (8:50)
Evelyn Champagne King - "I'm In Love" (A Mike Maurro mix) (9:30)
Review: Two legendary boogie anthems of the 80s are getting a fresh spin, with Mike Maurro offering new takes on Keni Burke's 'Risin' to the Top' and Evelyn 'Champagne' King's 'I'm In Love'. Set to drop via RCA on 12" vinyl, these remixes breathe new life into two classics that defined an era. Burke's 'Risin' to the Top', first released in 1982 on his album Changes, remains one of his most enduring tracks. It's a song that has been sampled across genres, from hip-hop to r&b, by the likes of Mary J. Blige and LL Cool J. Maurro's remix stays true to the original, adding subtle guitar riffs and an extended rhythm section, while preserving the song's chilled-out vibe. The result is a refined version that respects the sensual groove that made it such a standout. On the flip side, Maurro turns his attention to Evelyn 'Champagne' King's 1981 hit 'I'm In Love'. Originally a high-energy singalong anthem, this remix stays close to the spirit of the track but pushes the production forward. King's uplifting vocals remain the focal point, but with Maurro's touch, the track feels revitalised, with a polished mix that's ready to captivate the dancefloor once again. Both tracks offer a reminder of just how timeless this era of boogie and disco remains, with Maurro's remixes ensuring they sound as fresh today as they did decades ago. Perfect for DJs looking to inject some classic charm into their sets, these re-releases will no doubt reignite the love for these iconic tunes, proving once more that great music never goes out of style.
Review: Michael Kiwanuka's eagerly awaited fourth studio album, Small Changes, is set to continue the journey started with his critically acclaimed Kiwanuka. Once again, he collaborates with Danger Mouse and Inflo, the dynamic team behind his previous successes, Kiwanuka and Love & Hate. The album was recorded across London and Los Angeles, featuring contributions from music legends such as Pino Palladino and Jimmy Jam, enhancing its depth and texture. Kiwanuka's songwriting remains as profound as ever, blending lush grooves with introspective lyrics. He maintains his signature styleisimple yet evocative melodies that invite deep emotional engagement. The album has a soulful and timeless quality that marked his earlier work while exploring new artistic avenues. As Kiwanuka reflects on his music, he sees it as a form of communication and healing, continuing his tradition of melding personal insight with universal themes. Small Changes is poised to reinforce Kiwanuka's place as a uniquely talented and deeply relatable artist.
Review: Soul Jazz Records is back with another crucial reissue, this time of Dedication by Tribe, a rare gem from the 1970s funk, soul and jazz era as a special limited-edition coloured vinyl for Black Friday 2024. It has been fully remastered and comes with original artwork and mirrors the eclectic sounds of Mandrill, The Blackbyrds and Kool and the Gang. Tribe, led by multi-instrumentalist Earl J Foster and producer Big Dee Ervin, blended funk, jazz, rock, Latin and soul into a singular style on the album which was originally released independently in 1977 and has been out of print for over 45 years. Dedication is a masterpiece that offers a deep, spaced-out fusion.
Review: Miracle Thomas and Rob Hardt bring new life to 'Sugar Free,' the 1985 hit by Juicy, just in time for the arrival of spring. The funky bassline and smooth vocal runs make this cover instantly catchy and memorable. Miracle's sultry delivery, paired with Rob's groove-heavy production, creates an irresistible blend of old-school soul with a fresh twist. The song's infectious chant and hook elevate it to a dancefloor favourite, while the chemistry between Thomas and Hardt is undeniable. This track will no doubt soar on the charts, earning its place on playlists and keeping listeners hooked for months. It's the perfect mix of nostalgia and contemporary soul.
Review: Strut rings in the holiday season with a special reissue of The Qualities' rare 1961 single 'It's Christmas Time' b/w 'Happy New Year To You!', originally released on Sun Ra's Saturn label. This mysterious vocal harmony group, guided by the visionary Sun Ra, captures a unique moment in music history. Likely recorded around 1956, the festive tracks showcase Sun Ra's influence, blending jazz and harmony group experimentation. Remastered and restored, this exclusive 7" features a new picture sleeve designed by Liam Large, making it a collector's item that celebrates both the holidays and Sun Ra's boundary-pushing legacy.
Theme From Valley Of The Dolls (Master B, take 2) (4:03)
Lonely Girl (Master G take 1) (3:26)
Soul Vibrations (alternate take) (3:49)
Life Has Its Trials (Master C, take 2) (4:56)
Little Sunflower (Master F, take 3) (6:45)
Theme From Valley Of The Dolls (Master B, take 6) (3:53)
Review: The album effortlessly merges 1960s cool with classical music elements, creating a distinctive and original sound. What stands out most is the harp's role as the lead instrument, bringing a fresh, mystical dimension to the jazz genre that is rarely heard in traditional quartets or duos. Throughout the record, Ashby demonstrates the harp's versatility in evoking different moods. In her rendition of Freddie Hubbard's 'Little Sunflower,' the harp replaces the trumpet's warmth and power with a cool, elegant touch that transforms the piece. Ashby's intricate harp work introduces new harmonies and thematic elements, particularly on the track 'Games,' where the rhythm section's pulsating beat allows the harp's melody to take center stage. Afro-Harping is a hidden gem, encapsulating the essence of 1960s jazz with a nod to Afrofuturism and innovation. The fact that this groundbreaking album is led by a woman, especially in a genre where women often take on vocal roles, adds to its significance. This album is highly recommended for both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and newcomers - a gateway to Ashby's remarkable discography.
Review: Flying Vipers' new single 'Show Me' deepens their homage to 70s dub-inspired sound and now features lead vocalist Kellee Webb, whose soulful plea to a lover adds a heartfelt edge. With simmering horns, a lively Farfisa organ and a catchy hook, this track invites you to sing and sway from the start. Marking their debut with Easy Star Records, this crucial tune brings Flying Vipers' signature style to new heights. The single also includes a dub version on the B-side, which delivers a classic, immersive vibe for dub enthusiasts.
Review: Jalen Ngonda is a hotly tipped soul artist who finally unveils his long awaited debut album. Come Around and Love Me was written at Hive Mind Studios in Brooklyn, NY with musicians form the wider Daptone family and producer and arrangers Mike Buckley and Vincent Chiarito from Charles Bradley's Extraordinaires. The result is a modern soul sound tinged with r&b, the harmonies of The Beach Boys and hooks of the Beatles, but all with a timelessness and classic edge that is sure to make it a lasting pleasure.
Review: Chad Jackson and Hallmighty deliver a fresh take on classic sounds with Jazz Be Good To Me on Battle Weapons France. This hip hop/R&B release features two creative tracks. Side-1 showcases Chad Jackson's 'Jazz Be Good To Me,' a lively hip hop groove that echoes the late 80s and 90s, when dance music was a key component of the genre. Jackson updates the early 80s classic by the S O S Band with a vibrant, contemporary twist, making it a perfect fusion of old and new. On Side-2, Hallmighty presents 'What Is Stormy Love,' a masterful mash-up of Haddaway and Diana Ross & The Supremes. This track is produced so seamlessly that it feels like an original song from the late 60s, blending vintage soul with modern production techniques.
Review: Whenever you next need to select your dancefloor arsenal look no future than this first volume of battle weapons from the French label of the same name. It's a super tidy 7" with two very different sounds on each side. The first is Mr Doris & D-funk's 'New York Kiss' which is a low slung hip hop joint with East Coast bars and psyched-out guitars. The flip is a mix of two classics to give rise to a new funk sound that is brilliantly irresistible with a killer Clash bassline.
Lovely Day (Studio Rio instrumental version) (3:59)
Review: The bossa nova remake of Bill Withers' classic 'Lovely Day' by Studio Rio is a masterful mood lifter. Reissued by Mr Bongo, this track was a game-changer at the Shapes festival, transforming a snowy Alpine setting into a feel-good dancefloor. Originating from Studio Rio's 2014 release The Brazil Connection, the Grammy-winning Berman Brothers collaborated with Brazilian legends like Marcos Valle and Roberto Menescal. They used original multitracks to seamlessly blend Withers' soulful vocals with bossa nova rhythms. Joyful horns, a bouncing double bass, and Pretinho da Serrinha's cavaquinho playing create an end-of-night anthem that radiates warmth and positivity.
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