Back catalogue: Funk/Reissues

Review: Joyous Craft is the by third album by Portlandian funk outfit Pleasure, active from 1974 to 1982. They were discovered by Wayne Henderson of The Crusaders, who produced their first three albums, including this one. The consensus among Pleasure fans is that this is their masterpiece. Not only is it a prominent torch-bearer on the front of transitioning funk into hip-hop - the title track is anthemic, having been enduringly sampled by many pioneering hip-hop artists including De La Soul, Janet Jackson and Madlib - the bulk of the music here is essentially the sonic expression of the band's name, delivering endless promises of happy living, gilded proclamations of love and movement via regal brass sections and bulbous drumming, and even future-facing synthfunk fusions (e.g. 'Can't Turn You Loose').

Review: Alpha, a rare psychedelic-funk gem is set to return to vinyl for the first time in 50 years. Led by singer and keyboardist "Round" Robin Lloyd, The Round Robin Monopoly released the album and it is an eclectic fusion of funk, psychedelic pop, and R&B. Alpha initially flew under the radar but over time, however, the album gained a cult following among crate-diggers and DJs. With its standout track 'Life Is Funky' became a sought-after sample for artists like LL Cool J, Ice-T, Public Enemy, and The Chemical Brothers. The album's cinematic hooks, vibrant horns, and funky guitar riffs evoke the atmosphere of a 70s action film soundtrack, explaining its enduring appeal and influence in the music industry. The reissue of Alpha as part of Jazz Dispensary's Top Shelf series ensures that this underrated masterpiece gets the recognition it deserves. Remastered from the original analogue tapes by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio and pressed on 180-gram vinyl, the album comes in a tip-on jacket replicating the original art.

Review: Patrice Rushen's Prelusion marks her dazzling debut into the jazz world, originally released in 1974 on Prestige Records and now reissued on vinyl here in 2024. Before her r&b fame, Rushen showcased her talents as a jazz pianist on this album, backed by luminaries like Joe Henderson on saxophone. The record effortlessly blends post-bop with elements of jazz fusion, highlighting Rushen's versatility across acoustic and electric keyboard. Her performances on acoustic piano and electric keyboards reflect a strong influence from Herbie Hancock, evident in tracks such as 'Haw-Right Now' and 'Shortie's Portion.' Despite her shift to r&b in 1978, Prelusion stands as an early promise in jazz music.

Review: Live At the Opera House captures Sylvester's legendary 1979 concert at the San Francisco War Memorial Opera House in full, previously available only in heavily edited excerpts. This release features 13 unedited songs and a recording of the mid-concert ceremony where Sylvester received the key to San Francisco, offering over two hours of music. The album package includes newly discovered photographs and liner notes by Joshua Gamson, author of "The Fabulous Sylvester: The Legend, The Music, The Seventies in San Francisco." Sylvester, the undisputed queen of disco, delivers a performance that is both a musical triumph and a cultural milestone. With over 20 top 10 dance hits throughout his career, Sylvester's legend continues to shine brightly with his vast catalog. This live album is an beacon to his enduring influence and the vibrant energy of his music, making it an essential piece for any disco aficionado.