Review: Universal Cave set out on a brand new cosmic spelunk. Flipping a pair of raucous Latin disco pancakes on a searing summer lowrider bonnet (in lieu of a non-stick pan), these free-range disco ovules pack much underfoot promise for the discerning dancefloor. The Philly collective kicks things off with the spry 'So Soft So Sweet', with an elusively sourced sing-along hook, blazing synth-gasms, and impulsive drums. 'Mishugina Mambo', on the other hand, gleans its inspirations from the classic Sofrito Specials series: bold horns fly in the face of relentless percs, urging everyone and your mother to get moving.
Review: Mega-chromatic soul-jazz with a dash of weirdness from The Universal Togetherness Band. 'I Want You' and 'Call For Love' were recorded between 1979 and 1982, and were subsequently shelved until one of the duo's members began doling out cassette versions, which led to an unearthing in 2014. Subdued and laid-back drums, clack-guitar and toothy bass all poke through this release's sexy soul snark.
Review: A few years after recording at Damon Studios in Kansas City, Bump & The Soul Stompers-led by Jerald "Bump" Scott-rebranded as the Unnatural Funk Band. Unable to find a label for 'I Can Remember' they recorded at Cavern Studios, a unique space built in a Missouri limestone cave. Their track 'Living in the Past' features a nostalgic falsetto, while 'Strange Happenings' showcases a standout funk groove. This previously unreleased music was rediscovered with Scott's help during the Numero Group's research for the Eccentric Soul: The Forte Label collection, which now brings fresh attention to this rare Kansas City soul act.
Review: Years after their 1970 sessions at Damon Studios in Kansas City, Bump & The Soul Stompers, under the direction of Jerald "Bump" Scott, adopted the name Unnatural Funk Band, a nod to the era's unconventional naming trends. Despite their efforts, "I Can Remember" failed to find a label. This led them to the famed Cavern Studios in Independence, Missouriiliterally carved out of a limestone cavern. The result is a fascinating juxtaposition of sounds: 'Living in the Past' offers a wistful, falsetto-laden journey with a laid-back narrative, evoking a nostalgic aura. In contrast, 'Strange Happenings' delivers a remarkable funk experience, revealing the band's prowess in crafting vibrant and innovative grooves. This track, a hidden gem from a virtually undocumented Kansas City soul ensemble, was uncovered with the help of Scott during the Numero Group's 2013 research for the Eccentric Soul: The Forte Label compilation. Unnatural Funk Band's release, featuring these previously unreleased tracks, represents a significant find for funk aficionados. The limited-edition 10" vinyl showcases their unique blend of nostalgic funk and innovative rhythms, a testament to the enduring impact of their music.
Review: A year after dropping his acclaimed album 'Billy Valentine And The Universal Truth' with Flying Dutchman and Acid Jazz Records, Billy unveils a fresh take on a soul classic. Recorded at LA's prestigious Henson Recording Studio, alongside producer Bob Thiele Jr. and a stellar band including Larry Goldings, Pino Paladino, Jeff Parker, James Gadson, and John Philip Shenale, he introduces three new tracks. His rendition of Gil Scott-Heron's 'Lady Day & John Coltrane', debuted on Gilles Peterson's BBC6Music, mesmerising live audiences. This special edition 7" includes a unique edit of 'Home Is Where The Hatred Is', not previously available on vinyl.
Review: For the latest volume in their ongoing Brazil 45s series, Mr Bongo has decided to change tack. The two tracks showcased here are from the golden age of Brazilian boogie. On the A-side you'll find Marcos Valle's "A Paraiba Nao E Chicago", a largely overlooked cut from his 1981 full-length Vontade De Rever Voce. While not as instantly as infectious as some of his better-known singles, it's still superb; a breezy, blue-eyed soul cut full of rising horns and sweet Portuguese vocals. On the B-side, you'll find Don Beto's 1978 disco-funk jam "Nao Quero Mais", a superb track that was seemingly inspired by the Doobie Brothers' "Long Train Running".
Review: Two premium Latin funk documents on one limited 45, Mr Bongo deliver once again: Marcos Valle needs no introduction to Brazilian music enthusiasts. "Mentira" is a self-cover as Valle takes his 69 classic "Mentira Carioca" and develops the dynamic with a vocal style that's highly reminiscent of Donovan. Flip for Toni Tornado's Black Rio anthem "Me Libertei". Fusing sleazy rock n roll with jazzy Latin soul, madly this is the first time it's ever graced a 45!
Review: Austin's Vapor Caves enlist funk heavyweights XL Middleton and E. Live for a powerful remix release that brings plenty of dance floor goodness. On the A-side, XL Middleton, who is rightly dubbed the 'Modern Funk King', delivers a high-energy boogie-blast that elevates the original track to new heights. Flip to the B-side and you will find E. Live crafting a smooth, jazz-infused remix with a relaxed, soulful vibe that's sure to win over any right-thinking dancefloor. Star Creature is on a winning streak at the moment and here delivers yet another essential joint for fans of modern funk.
Review: Vaudou Game returns with a funky Afro Cumbia workout that marks the first single from their fifth album. The French Afro-funk band expands its influence here by blending high-life guitars with Cumbia rhythms and crossing into Afro-Latin sounds, especially elements of Colombian music. 'Raler' features the captivating vocals of Spanish-English singer Clara Serra Lopez and is a mix of fresh funk and traditional rhythms while 'Koliko' pays tribute to West African street food, particularly sweet donuts found in Lome and Cotonou. Delicious.
Review: Featuring sister funk paired with a beautiful ballad, this release is a true gem for aficionados of 1960s indie soul music. It comes from The Velvet Vettes via Tramp and is a limited pressing so don't sleep. A-side cut 'Give Me A Little Bit Of Time' is a lively one with plenty of Northern soul energy as well as lung busting vocals and great backing harmonies full of soul. Flip it over and you will find the much more slow and sentimental sounds of 'I'd Like To Know' which is a real heart melting crooner.
Review: Funk Night Records goes global again here with a new double-sider from Russia's The Vicious Seeds. They offer up two gems with different vibes on this 7". The first is 'Cruel Fist ', a perfect bit of busy and dense instrumental funk for some steamy dance floor business. On the flip is 'Cold Pressed Venom' which is a more slow-moving and psyched-out sound for late night hours. This is often the approach this outfit takes on this label and like all previous times, it works a treat once more here.
Review: Russian outfit The Vicious Seeds are back on their regular home label of Funk Night with yet another of their delightful little 7"s. As always they use each side to offer up slightly different vibes for different settings. First up is the deep-cut instrumental funk of 'Ace Of Haze' with its wah-wah guitars and psyched-out stoner vibes all seducing you into a meditative state of mind. 'Nature Identical Pleasure' then slows it down further with more libidinous vibes, prominent melodies snaking their bay through the dusty drums and grooves that move your soul.
Review: Spasibo Records present a fresh 7" by the Vicious Seeds, hailing from St. Petersburg. With vibraphonist Pavel Chizhik taking centre stage (Chizhik isn't usually a member of the band), 'Village Hassle' makes for a cleverly collaborative rare groove and instrumental reggae-soul release. The titular A-side flaunts Chizhik's vibraphone via the mix alone, fleshing out its low-end elements against a driven instrumental backbeat; 'Monthly Rainfall', meanwhile, goes for all-out slow-jammed soul by way of cross-sticked snares and offbeat chord plucks run through short-release springs.
Review: Record-collecting Jedis out there will know that this one is a real holy grail that is coveted by name, and now Record Store Day comes good and makes it widely available (well, in limited quantities) to all for a much more affordable price than you would get on second hand sites. This 7" allows you to experience the soulful magic of New York's The Village Choir who infuse Latin, soul, and jazz elements and more into two dancefloor gems that exude timeless elegance. Previously known for fetching over L500 on the secondhand market, this is an officially licensed reissue and what's more, it comes on nice heavyweight wax.
Review: 'Funky Broadway' by The Villagers appeared on the well-received Movements Vol.12 compilation album and was a clear standout amongst standouts. As a response to that it now makes its long-awaited debut release on standalone vinyl. It's a soul-stirring gem that brings classic sounds and heart-melting grooves. On the B-side comes the red hot garage-rock gem 'You're My Baby (Don't You Forget It)' which is originally from 1966, and which coincided with Dyke & The Blazers' original recording of 'Funky Broadway' in the same year. Neat.
Review: Spasibo Records introduces a new 7" vinyl by St. Petersburg outfit the Vicious Seeds, this time on yellow and green wax. In an unconventional move, vibraphonist Pavel Chizhik takes the spotlight and the result is that he truly enhances the band's signature sound. 'Village Hassle' offers a unique blend of rare groove and instrumental reggae-soul - the A-side highlights Chizhik's vibraphone prowess, intertwining it with a dynamic instrumental backbeat. On the flip side, 'Monthly Rainfall' delves into a soulful journey, characterized by cross-sticked snares and offbeat chord plucks which create an atmosphere reminiscent of slow-jammed soul with a contemporary twist.
Vivi Hernadez Y Su Conjunto - "Tocando Macizas" (3:47)
Grupo Caverna - "Caverna" (2:46)
Review: Vivi Hernandez Y Su Conjunto's 'Tocando Macizas' emerges as a coveted collector's item, limited to 100 copies in a bespoke silkscreen sleeve. This 7" release captures the raw essence of 1971 Mexican funk, offering a tantalising glimpse into a pivotal moment in Latin music history. The A-side's infectious rhythm and bold instrumentation are perfectly complemented by Grupo Caverna's 'Caverna' on the flip. This rare pressing stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of vintage Latin funk, promising to be a prized addition to any discerning vinyl enthusiast's collection.
Review: The Voices Of East Harlem were an ensemble of vocalists who for Just Sunshine Records recorded two albums under the direction of Leroy Hutson and Curtis Mayfield. "Cashing In" is one of their most classic songs, a highly sought after track on original 7" fetches a small fortune on the collectors market. First recorded and released in 1973, it has all the hallmarks of a Leroy Hutson composition and an established audience that crosses the boundaries of northern, crossover and modern soul. The song is coupled here with "Take A Stand', another highly regarded and sought after modern soul room dance floor tracks, never previously released on 7" single until now
Review: Those with knowledge of rare groove should be well aware of The Voices of East Harlem's 'Wanted Dead Or Alive', a 1973 album track from the band's eponymous second album that was reissued in 1988 due to its popularity on London's rare groove scene. Here the superb, string-laden, Leroy Hutson produced classic appears on seven-inch for the first time, courtesy of Dynamite Cuts. This time round it comes backed with another killer jam from the same album: the proto-disco soul swell of 'Little People', which was famously sampled by Young Disciples on their 1991 skit 'Get Yourself Together'. Essential stuff all told.
Review: Produced by Leroy Hutson and Curtis Mayfield, released by Just Sunshine Records, over the course of five years, the community-based collective Voices Of East Harlem blessed the world with three albums and a whole string of funky singles, including these two cult tracks. "Wanted Dead Or Alive" is straight up funk with a strong splash of gospel. One of their most popular cuts, it was taken from their 1973 self-titled album. "Can You Feel It" on the B offers much more of a rare groove and funk vibe with keys and some powerful backing vocals. It still sounds as fresh as it did 45 years ago. You feeling it?
Review: Waldir Calmon's 'Airport Love Theme' has that special appeal that makes it a true gem. Sampled by Madlib on the Madvillain album track 'Curls', this lounge classic from Calmon's 1970 Waldir Calmon E Seus Multisons LP on Copacabana exudes nostalgic charm. Despite its unassuming cover, 'Airport Love Theme' delivers a dreamy, feel-good vibe that could soundtrack a perfect world. Afro Son, from the same album, shifts towards a Brazilian-rooted, cinematic groove, reminiscent of Jean Jacques Perrey's E.V.A.. Calmon, a Brazilian music fixture from the 50s to the 80s, who collaborated with legends like Tom Jobim and Joao Gilberto and left a unique musical legacy that lives on in these timeless tracks.
Children Of The Night (Ryuhei The Man edit) (3:38)
Children Of The Night (3:59)
Review: Japan seems to excel at everything and anything it does, including reissuing golden jazz funk. This time out, Hysear Don Walker's "Complete Expressions Vol. 2" is mined for the two escapist and mellifluous tracks that make up this essential 7". Ryuhei The Man edits "Children Of The Night" into a smooth flowing bit of late night and romantic jazz funk. It rides on a pensive bass loop and has a subtle sense of drive, while the slower original is that bit more sentimental with its noodling chords and more meandering mood. Both sides are pure winners.
Review: For our money, XL Middleton is one of the best producers in the game right now. His ability to craft timeless funk and electro sounds that make you want to move your ass is second to none. Here he does just that with his remix of Hannah Warm's 'Just In Time.' It's defined by his usual sense of LA cool with squelchy synth bass, stepping street soul beats from the 80s and in this case a Japanese vocal that soars through a cloudless sky on a sunny day. Flip over this tidy 7" for the original version which is a pure city pop delight.
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: A unique slice of classic library music flies off the shelf. These four tracks were lifted from the classic library music series known only as 'Sounds Music Album Volume 18', and were made by the library maestro Klaus Weiss, the former jazz drummer who later turned to the trade after falling in with German music publisher Ring Musik. An eerie uncanniness cuts across these instrumentals, as Weiss' drumming provides steady boppage to serene yet dubious backings of strings and synth.
Review: The work of legendary drummer turned library musician Klaus Weiss continues to be reissued. For this series, Dynamite Cuts are looking back on a mid-1970s series of EPs released by Weiss originally for the famous library Sound Music. Carrying a minimal production that still has appeal for the modern listener (don't Dynamite know it), the four tracks here are curt, squelchy and beat-centric, with highlights including the clavichord-wacky 'Frogs', the sonically obese 'Productive Facilities', and the space-age drum freakout 'Coordinates Meeting'.
Review: This great series from Dynamite Cuts continues to delve deep into the alluring world of library music. It is sound that captures real feelings and evokes all sorts of memories, even those that are imagined, with a single note or seductive groove. This collection is made of tracks from the German Library series Sound Music Albums which sell for over L150 if you can find a copy. There are four tunes in all, three from Klaus Weiss and one from Peter Thomas, all of which add up to another great collection and a must for serious music heads.
Review: Columbian Afro-cumbia sensation Wganda Kenya drew acclaim for their group excursions in dance music, not least for the huge ensemble cast of nine-plus musicians that made them up. 'Shakalaode' came in 1976 as the infectiously slackened cover of Fela Kuti's 'Shakara', released five years earlier. Colombian Afrobeat leant more heavily on diasporic rhythmic elements, which differed from Nigerian Afrobeat in that these used regional cumbia, porro and mapale, descending from Afro populations who had settled along the Pacific and Caribbean coast. Less polyrhythmic and perhaps more tropical in feel, the A-side serves as a shining example, with rushy plucks and strident shouts intro'ing a flavoursome shakedown, and 'El Abanico' follows up as a surpriser Fatback Band cover.
Review: Whatitdo Archive Group goes deep with Wild Man, diving headfirst into the eerie side of holiday folklore. This isn't your average Christmas fare; Side A's 'Wild Man' pulses with heavy, driving bass and swirling wah-guitar that captures the energy of dark legends like Krampus and the Yeti. On the flip side 'Greensleeves' takes on a haunting Ethio-jazz edge, stretching the familiar tune into shadowy, hypnotic territory. Each track is a bold reimagining, blending ancient mythology with grooves fit for any late-night winter gathering that dares to step off the beaten path.
Review: The Whatnauts are best known for their evergreen classic 'Help Is On The Way', but they've got a mighty fine catalogue which goes deeper and further than just that tune. Here Dynamite Cuts gather up three essentials and press them to a 7" for your convenience, leading in with 1972's 'Why Can't People Be Colours Too?' from the Whatnauts On The Rocks album. When the break drops, you'll fully understand why it got picked - pure understated perfection. 'Souling With The Whatnauts' and 'Message From A Black Man' are both taken from 1970s Introducing The Whatnauts, offering up a more mellow, reflective side of this cult Baltimore group.
Review: The reissue of Ike White's 'Changin' Times' brings a rare soul treasure from 1976 back to life. On Side-1, 'Changin' Times', is a low-key funky gem, its understated groove and soulful depth capturing a timeless beauty. Flip to Side-2 and 'Love & Affection' takes the spotlightia vibrant, funk-infused track with echoes of Stevie Wonder's iconic 'Superstition' taken from Ike's full length release. Its forward-thinking soul grooves blend seamlessly with funky rhythms, making it a standout piece that feels both nostalgic and ahead of its time. This 7" packs a punch with its perfect balance of understated charm and bold musicality.
Review: New Orleans funk outfit The Wild Magnolias were active in the mid 70s, releasing two albums and then regrouping in the 90s. Their sound is in step with their more renowned Louisiana peers, but certainly running hotter than the likes of The Meters. "Handa Wanda" is a stirring, effervescent call and response epic that shows the band at their best, rocking a wall of sound approach that keeps the pressure up the whole way through. "(Somebody Got) Soul, Soul, Soul" is a more fluid track, but it's certainly no slouch in the energy department either. This is hi-octane funk to get people shaking and sweaty.
Review: The Williams Brothers, hailing from East Orange, New Jersey, burst onto the scene with a compelling blend of sweet soul and deep funk. Their standout double-sider featuring 'That's Life' and 'Rap On,' originally released in 1972 on Twain Record, showcases their exceptional musical abilities. This release, now a rare gem, captures the soulful depth and vibrant energy that defined the group, making it a collector's dream. Starting in gospel music, the brothers transitioned to R&B with their father's reluctant blessing, quickly becoming local sensations. Their journey took a significant turn when they won a competition by New Zealand Breweries, leading to international tours and increased fame. Despite facing early challenges, including a tragic car accident that paralyzed the youngest brother Anthony, the Williams Brothers have continued to evolve, recently venturing into EDM and gaining recognition as an electrifying opening act for major DJs. Their records, especially early releases like 'That's Life/Rap On', are highly sought after today, commanding thousands of dollars per copy, solidifying their status as an underground legend of music.
Review: During the "rare groove" boom in London during the 1980s, Linda Williams' 1979 album track "Elevate Our Minds" became something of an anthem. Curiously, it was never released as a single at the time, making this surprise 7" edition something of a bonus for those still searching for the track. It remains a fine song, with Williams' brilliant vocals rising above bossa-influenced beats, warm bass, luscious boogie orchestration and gentle Latin style horn lines. The flipside features "City Living", the title track from the very same 1979 LP that "Elevate Our Minds" was taken. It's far funkier and more elastic in feel, with horn arrangements and a chunky groove reminiscent of some Teena Marie tracks from the same period.
Review: Dave Welding's Soul Junction label is back with another limited edition 45rpm that keeps up the fine run of recent form. These two gems are the work of the late great Willie Williams, a blind singer from Chicago who was discovered performing in the Windy City's local clubs. He was signed to ABC records in 1966 and put out only a couple of other well received singles. 'Give It All I Got' is a beautiful piece with raw drum work and lush vocal backing harmonies next to a gentle piano line. It is stirring stuff while the flips-side 'Do You Understand' is more upbeat with its funky riffs, more great backing vocals and a rolling beat that locks you in.
Review: Destination 78/79: Expansion take us deep into the illustrious back cat of revered boogaloo fusionist Willie Bobo for two of his many fiery delights. Side A is his feel-heavy cult instrumental take on Ronnie Laws' disco classic "Always There" while Side B throws us into the heart of his 1979 album Bobo with gutsy raw soul power (and just a few cheeky funk slap bass twangs for good measure) Two stone cold classics together for the first time on 45.
Review: New to the international scene but poised to break out, this talented artist brings out her first single. This 7" release from the American soul singer brings fresh energy to his hit single 'Falling For You'. On Side-A, the Georgie B remix takes the smooth, soulful original and turns it into an upbeat, funky dance track. The remix retains the song's classy, sexy vibe while adding a dancefloor-ready edge, making it an instant hit for those looking for a bit more groove. On Side-B, the original version of 'Falling For You' delivers a soulful, urban feel, with smooth r&b notes and a catchy dance groove. The horn section adds a rich layer to the track, reminiscent of Lisa Stansfield's signature sound, creating an irresistible blend of soul and rhythm.
Review: Winfree's 'Friday Night,' a catchy 7" on Six Nine, delivers a fresh take on soul with a modern twist. Side-1 features the T-groove remix of 'Friday Night,' blending a slamming slow groove with funk and electro complete with vocoder work that nods to Zapp. Side-2's 'The Way She Makes It Bounce' dives into early electro sounds, perfect for low-rider music enthusiasts, channeling the spirit of Roger Troutman. This release captures the classic vibes while infusing it with contemporary elements, making it a track to check out for fans of both old-school and modern funk. Both sides, needless to say, are proper party starters.
Review: The Winston Brothers return with two fresh cuts on their latest 7" single, marking their first release since 2022's Drift. On the A-side, 'Straight Shooter' lives up to its name, a raw funk jam that could kickstart a b-boy battle. Funky guitar riffs, punchy horns, and tight drum breaks propel the track forward, its energy intense and unfiltered, thanks to an all-analogue recording on a Fostex 8-track. On the flip, 'Island Travel' takes a more laid-back turn. It's a hypnotic Afrobeat number, with dreamy flute work from Kimo Eiserbeck, blending ethno-funk with spiritual jazz vibes. It's cinematic, atmospheric, and offers a perfect contrast to the edgier A-side.
Review: The Winston Brothers make a triumphant return with two new tracks, this time pressed on striking blue vinyl, following the success of their 2022 debut Drift. The A-side, 'Straight Shooter,' is a full-throttle funk workout, packed with gritty guitar licks, sharp horns, and head-nodding drum breaks. With a raw edge and plenty of analogue warmth from the Fostex 8-track recording, it's a b-boy anthem in waiting. On the B-side, 'Island Travel' shifts gears into a more laid-back groove. A smooth afrobeat-inspired journey, it blends spiritual jazz and ethno-funk, with Kimo Eiserbeck's serene flute solo gliding over the hypnotic rhythms. Perfectly balancing the A-side's intensity, this one's for the heads looking to kick back and vibe out.
Review: 40 years young: Wood, Brass & Steel's eponymous debut album enjoys a highly timely reissue and it still sounds every bit as funky ("Theme Song"), soulful ("Working On A Dream") and emotional ("My Darling Baby") as it did in 76. Complete with cult dancefloor hit "Funkanova" and the crossover disco hit "Always There", this LP has aged with real maturity and clout. Considering what the members did next (Tackheads, Sugarhill and Fats Comet) Wood, Brass & Steel was something of a supergroup in hindsight... And this album is where it all began.
Review: Measured Mile, the 7"s label run by Bob Stanley, firms its focus on DJ-friendly 45s that are or were either very rare or previously unavailable in the format. Its run of sharply curated 7"s is replenished with another three-tracker, this time an unusual choice, fencing two classic British sports broadcasting themes, pivoting from midtempo funk to faster breaks. Leading the A are two standouts from Douglas Wood, 'Cranes', known as the punchy, synth-heavy theme from the BDO World Darts Championship - and 'Drag Racer', the atmospheric opener to the BBC's Snooker World Championships coverage, both drawn from the revered Studio G library catalogue. On the flip, John Cameron's 'Sprocket Shuffle' - the lively 1980s ITV Snooker theme - rounds out the package in a flurry of analogue texture and charming nostalgia.
Review: London label Original Gravity excels once more here with some authentic dub sounds from the one and only Woodfield Rd Allstars. This excellent collective has been on many a great tune on this label as well as several others and this limited 45 rm proves their might in the field once more. 'Big Shot' is a funky cut with some natty chord work and off-balance drums that tumble to and fro, while the percussion is organic and crisp up top. Things slow right down on the flip for a more traditional reggae sound that hints at the sounds of ska. 'Soul Shakedown' is perfect to go those asses wriggling.
Review: Man of Mine encapsulates the soulful essence of Betty Wright's talent, making it a standout track on this 7" single release. Originally released in 1977, the song remains in high demand on the modern soul scene, attesting to its enduring appeal and timeless quality. Wright's emotive vocals, backed by lush instrumentation, create a captivating listening experience that resonates with audiences across generations. With its infectious groove and heartfelt lyrics, Man of Mine exemplifies the soul genre at its finest, showcasing Wright's talent as a vocalist and storyteller. This single serves as a fitting tribute to Betty Wright's influential contribution to funk, soul music and disco.
Review: With roots as a backing singer for Stevie Wonder, Wycoff went on to become a soul ambassador throughout the early 80s. This 1982 reissue is one of the best examples of his silky, heartfelt delivery... "Looking Up To You" is a dynamic love song where traces of big 70s production build and build throughout. "(Do You Really Love Me) Tell Me Love", meanwhile, was only ever released as a B-side. Its 80s production counter the dramatics of the A-side with cool synthetic perfection. Reissues don't get much broader in production or sweeter in sound than this.
Review: Side-1 kicks off with a raw and funky garage band jam that perfectly captures the spirit of 1967. With its dynamic energy, the track blends elements of jazz, rock, funk and blues, creating an exciting, soul-infused experience. The rhythm section drives the track with relentless energy, while the soulful melodies and infectious groove make it a standout piece. The mix of surf rock and mod influences gives it a timeless, gritty edge that resonates with both vintage and modern listeners. Side-2 takes a more experimental turn with a unique jam laden with saxophone and rich instrumental textures. The track's experimental nature is underscored by its unconventional structure, utilizing the harpsichord to create a distinctive, jazzy vibe. The saxophone adds a layer of depth, intertwining with the rhythm to produce a mood that's both introspective and lively. This track offers a refreshing, avant-garde twist that contrasts beautifully with the raw energy of the opening side.
Review: Peoples Potential Unlimited or PPU, is one of the freshest funk labels out there, whether serving up new funk sounds that sound old, or reissuing classic funk sounds that seem bang up to date. Often lo-fi in design but high in emotion, they make for party-starting gems with real swagger. This latest limited 7" is a reissue of a classic from The X-Man, who has apparently been locked away in the Detroit Psychiatric Hospital for the last 30 years. His aggressive funk style pairs driving drums and taught synths with libidinous vocal delivers and plenty of great guitar riffs. Here we have the driving 'That Body' paired with the more deep and bumping 'Fire Up'. Both bang.
Review: Fresh off the back of X-Ray Ted's debut album Moving On comes this instrumental/scratch tool version of 'Get Loose', one of the record's best-loved non single tracks. Prior to the full album's making and eventual completion, The Bristol-based DJ and producer had spent years honing his craft and refining his signature sound, which drew heavily on soul, funk, hip-hop and breaks; all of which were styles heavily indebted to the street battle breaks culture found in 90s New York and other major cities. 'Get Loose', the seventh track on the record, features British rappers Dr. Syntax and Elemental and is a fiery exploration of what it means to loosen oneself; the track features here in full original form, alongside its locked groove and acapella versions, the former of which samples an oldskool comedy set characteristic of the kinds of sources battle DJs would sift theirs from.
Review: Born on the French Island of Martinique, Louis Xavier later settled in France where he discovered the freedom of jazz, and an idea to mix his influences into a global melting pot of sound. He formed his band (Synchro Rhythmic Eclectic Language) in Paris in the early '70s, making music that was both spiritual and eclectic for its time. Both tracks are jazz in essence but with instrumental funky rhythms infused with intricate percussion and electric keys.
Review: Inell Young was a New Orleans-based singer who recorded with Eddie Bo and also had a small clutch of solo singles in the late 60s-early 70s. Soul Jazz picked up on one of Young's rarest offerings, a beautiful single which came out some time in the 60s. They first reissued it in 2014 and it keeps getting repressed for very good reason - it's just a perfect slice of southern soul. 'The Next Ball Game' is a fiery, funky number with a clattering beat and plenty of overdriven energy, raw like the best music should be but oh so sweet thanks to Young's angelic voice. 'Part Of The Game' is a swooning heartbreak ballad that makes the perfect inversion to the firecracker of an A-side.
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