Ebony Evans - "Loving You Is All I Wanna Do" (4:38)
Lewzarius - "Step Up" (4:54)
Review: Ebony Evans is a superb soul talent who for this single worked with Manny Campbell who wrote and arranged. Originally recorded in 2004, 'Loving You Is All I Wanna Do' appeared on the Luv's Fire CD Maxi Single and later on a full album in 2006 through Coastal Records but now debut on vinyl thanks to Soul Direction. On the flip side, Lewzarius' 'Step Up" shines as a rich collaboration between Campbell and Haran Griffin, who is best known for 'Movin' Much Too Fast.' Atlanta-born Lewzarius recorded this track during his time at Coastal Records in the late 90s.
Review: Maledetta Discoteca closes out its year with this special blue vinyl featuring a mix of brilliant Italo disco artists. They all hail from Italy and Argentina and are editing originals that span disco, electro, proto-house and more. Hararis' 'Si No Pagan' is the first under the scalpel and is a funky cut with raw drums. Lance's 'Yo Quiero A Lucy' is a more slowed down and seductive sound with 80s synths, Marta Paradise's 'Calling' (edit) is a direct and sugar synth laced house stomper and Alan Strani's 'Tension Salsable' brings things to a closer with a nice stomping disco grove with mysterious synths and lush percussion.
Review: Francesco Fisotti is the leader of the new Italian disco-funk band Le Dune and this makes their debut release. 'Sugar' features a fusion of electronic drums, synths and groovy bass with a retro feel but fresh modern production flair next to vibrant guitars. When you pair all that with catchy, pop-driven vocals you have a timeless disco vibe that will unique all manner of dancers. Alongside the original version, the Extended Mix emphasises the groove, the Instrumental Version' leans into a percussive, tribal sound while the 'La Notte Mix' co-produced by Issam Dahmani delivers a late 80s proto-house feel.
Review: Discodelic and Groovie Records unveil a pair of rare 1970s Panamanian gems here with forgotten tracks from The Meditators, and Los Misticos. Originally recorded for radio and left in storage, these Latin psych funk bombs capture the underground spirit of Panama's vibrant music scene from more than 50 years ago. Licensed through Tamayo Records, these songs have been beautifully mastered and now the long-lost recordings, which barely made it to vinyl the first time around, become available for all who are keen to drop the heat and learn about Panama's hidden musical treasures at the same time.
Review: These two rare 1970s Panamanian gems are long-forgotten tracks from The Meditators and Los Misticos that now get pressed up to a very colourful 7", though we also have a plain black version. These Latin psych-funk recordings were created for radio but were stored away for many years and now listening back they offer a glimpse into the vibrant, underground scene of Panama. Beautifully remastered and licensed through Tamayo Records, these rediscovered songs are now available after originally being pressed in extremely limited quantities. These tracks provide a unique chance for listeners to experience Panama's hidden musical treasures while adding some heat to any collection.
Review: Trip To The Moon by Los Sabios kicks off this cosmic 7" with its hypnotic rhythms and swirling synths, blending classic cumbia with spacey, psychedelic vibes. The A-side track is a journey into the unknown, pulsating with infectious grooves that feel like they've been beamed in from another galaxy. On the flip side, Los Eliceos deliver 'La CabaNa,' a more grounded yet equally entrancing tune, driven by tight percussion and warm, melodic guitar lines. Both tracks offer a fresh take on traditional cumbia, making this release a must-have for collectors and dance floor enthusiasts alike.
Aniceto Molina Y Su Conjunto - "Cumbria Candela" (3:04)
Catalino Y Su Combo Negro - "Cumbia Montaera" (2:23)
Los Hermanos Martelo - "Por Las Buenas" (2:52)
La Pesada - "Cumbia Y Tambo (En La Lluvia)" (3:54)
Review: The third instalment in the 'Cumbia Sabrosa' series delves into the rich archives of Colombia's Codiscos label, unearthing a selection of tracks that exemplify the vibrant energy of cumbia. Artists such as Los Trotamundos, Aniceto Molina y su Conjunto, and Los Hermanos Martelo contribute to a compilation that seamlessly blends traditional rhythms with the dynamic flair characteristic of the sonidero scene. Each track offers a unique glimpse into the musical landscape of the era, highlighting the enduring appeal of cumbia's infectious beats.
Review: Ice's early work captures a pivotal moment in funk's evolution, weaving together taut grooves and vibrant African-inspired rhythms. Recorded during the band's formative years, the music brims with raw energy and creative ambition. Polished basslines drive the tracks, while percussion bursts with a vitality that speaks to their Parisian influences at the time. Horn stabs and tightly wound guitar lines add layers of complexity, and the occasional vocal inflection injects a sense of urgency. With each listen, the production reveals new texturesismall details that elevate the record beyond its era.
Review: Popularly known to fans as "Ice" - a rare case of hypocorism in colloquial fan band nicknaming - Strut Recordings document a rare record from the vaults of the luminary Lafayette Afro-Rock Band, one that is arguably the closest in their catalogue to the signature sound defining their earlier work. Marked by an especially complex funk rhythmology, this record was pressed contemporaneously with the infamous Soul Makossa and Malik sessions; but compared to their earlier works, Afro Agban pushes deeper into jazz-rock territory. 'Ozan Koukle' has espceially become a known but coveted missing link for turntable taxonomists, who'll thank their lucky stars for the fact that it is now available in full.
Review: La Clave's self-titled album from 1973 is a refreshing mix of Latin rhythms and the vibrant sounds of the city of San Francisco. Formed by nine musicians from Mexico, Panama, Cuba and Puerto Rico with Benny Velarde at the helm, the group blended their rich cultural backgrounds with the soulful and experimental music scene of the Bay Area during that period. This unique mix created a joyful, energetic sound that still lures you in to this day, which is why this mini-classic gets reissued as part of the Verve By Request series.
Review: Strut proudly presents the first official remastered reissue of Lafayette Afro Rock Band's funk/Afro classic, Soul Makossa from 1973. Originally known as the Bobby Boyd Congress, the seven-member Afro-American ensemble relocated from the U.S. to France in 1971. After lead singer Bobby Boyd returned to the US, the group rebranded as Ice and collaborated with producer Pierre Jaubert, whose credits included work with Charles Mingus and John Lee Hooker. Inspired by Motown's work ethic, Jaubert initiated daily rehearsals, leading to the band's unique sound. Immersed in Paris's African-dominated Barbesse district and frequently performing with Cameroonian composer Manu Dibango, the group evolved into Lafayette Afro Rock Band, embracing a heavier, more intricate Afro-funk style. Their debut album, Soul Makossa, featured a dynamic rendition of Dibango's classic, alongside the intense break of 'Hihache' and the infectious 'Nicky.' This meticulously crafted remaster by The Carvery from the original tapes includes the full original artwork, celebrating an iconic album's legacy.
Review: Strut proudly presents the first official remastered reissue of Lafayette Afro Rock Band's elusive funk/Afro original album, 'Malik,' originally released in 1974, on Limited Edition coloured vinyl. In 1971, the seven-member Afro-American ensemble, initially known as the Bobby Boyd Congress, moved from the U.S. to France. Bandleader Frank Abel recalls, With lead singer Bobby Boyd's return to the US, the group rebranded as Ice and collaborated with independent producer Pierre Jaubert, who had worked with legends like Charles Mingus and Archie Shepp. Inspired by Motown's work ethic, Jaubert initiated regular rehearsals with Ice. The band, immersed in Paris's African-dominated Barbes district, began infusing African elements into their music, often performing with Cameroonian composer Manu Dibango. As the Lafayette Afro Rock Band, they shifted to predominantly instrumental compositions with a dense Afro-funk sound. Their debut as Lafayette included 'Soul Makossa' and the impactful break in 'Hihache.' A year later, 'Malik' refined their sound with tracks like the percussive 'Conga,' atmospheric 'Djungi,' and robust 'Darkest Light.' Though initially limited in impact, 'Malik' gained appreciation as hip-hop culture flourished in the 80s, becoming a rich source of samples. This remastered reissue, crafted by The Carvery from the original tapes, has the full album and original artwork.
Review: On Good Together, Lake Street Dive embraces a renewed sense of purpose and focus on unity amidst social divisions. Described as "joyful rebellion", the album blends energetic, danceable sounds with a defiant, principled message that makes a long-lasting impression. "There's so much pain and division but living in anger isn't sustainable," drummer Mike Calabrese explains adding, "Joy is a powerful way to sustain yourself, and we wanted to remind people of that." The album he has made with his bandmates was produced by Grammy-winner Mike Elizondo and is the first time they collaborated on songwriting from the start. In turn, this expanded their creative range and has brought a new depth to their sound.
Review: Billed as a jazz-funk obscurity by many an expert, the 1984 self-released album by John Lamkin charts the trumpeting and flugelhorning talents of a lesser-spotted Maryland jazzer. Never again releasing a record after this debut for GMI, this shockingly varied record was dedicated to Lamkin's father, also named John Lamkin. Commanding a star cast of instrumental contributors - the likes of Gary Thomas, George Gray and Eugene Mauro - Lamkin would not achieve so much fame as those listed above, and yet brought a timelessly torrid fusion of funk and jazz here. 'Hot' is especially crispy and combustible, and we're not sure why it didn't blow up when it came out; you could fry an egg on that bass lick.
Review: The collaboration between the hip-hop godfathers and Afrobeat's explosive rhythms is nothing short of electrifying. After the session in Harlem, the project moved to Prince Fatty's studio, now in South East London, where the rhythm section was filled out by two key members from Seun Anikulapo Kuti's band, Egypt 80. Akinola Adio Oyebola and Kunle Justice's enthusiasm brought an authentic Nigerian Afrobeat vibe to the music, setting the stage for a unique fusion of revolutionary poetry and progressive jazz. UK-based jazz talents like Joe Armon Jones, Kaidi Tatham and Courtney Pine joined in to create a vibrant soundscape. With live, non-sampled instrumentation and impeccable mixing from Prince Fatty, the music feels as groundbreaking as the Poets' lyricsiperfectly capturing today's eclectic musical tastes.
Review: Azar Lawrence's 1976 solo album People Moving is one that puts his skill on tenor, alto, and soprano saxophones front and centre throughout. The classic album was assembled by a stellar lineup including none other than Patrice Rushen on electric piano and vocals, as well as Harvey Mason on drums and Mtume on percussion. It was dedicated at the time to Charles Stepney and blends funk, soul, and jazz into a vibrant musical experience. The title track, 'People Moving,' stands proud with Lawrence's soulful saxophone and Jerry Peters' impressive horn arrangements really drawing you in. The record also marks Skip Scarborough's debut as a producer, and it's a role he later expanded when working with artists like Bobbi Humphrey, Con Funk Shun, and Phyllis Hyman.
The Lady Of The Sea (For Those Who Know The Tube) (4:00)
All My Life (2:32)
You're The Only One Girl (3:39)
At Least We Got Love (3:07)
All Love's Children (3:05)
Get Out In The Sun (3:53)
Golden Hues (2:53)
I Meditate Each Day (TM Try It) (2:59)
Review: Steve Leach's Ocean Potion, set for reissue on Be With Records, is a hidden gem of Balearic beach-funk from 1976, featuring Leachiknown today as Seasick Steveiin his earlier incarnation. Originally released exclusively in France on Philips, this LP is a funky AOR and blue-eyed soul masterpiece, brimming with vibrant, pop-funk energy. Recorded with the Crystal Grass Orchestra, the album boasts a lush orchestral sound that perfectly complements Leach's smooth vocals and the rich harmonies of a stellar ensemble of backing singers. The supporting musicians are legends from the French music scene, including Don Ray as arranger and synth player, Marc Chantereau on percussion, Slim Pezin on guitar, Andre Ceccarelli on drums, Christian Padovan on bass, and Pierre Halation on flute. Their combined talents create a groove that is both immediate and infectious, making it hard to believe this record has remained relatively obscure. The reissue by Be With Records has been carefully remastered by Simon Francis, ensuring the sound quality is impeccable. Cicely Balston's expert cutting preserves the record's integrity, while the original sleeve artwork, featuring a topless Leach reclining on a piano-laden flatbed truck at the beach, has been beautifully restored. This long-overdue reissue brings Ocean Potion back to the spotlight, where it rightly belongs.
Review: Scandi curveballer Leoparden first shook up Oslo's experimental scene with a funky twist of disco, electronic pop and irresistible grooves. After his 2019 debut single Boliglan and a solid album on Lyskestrekk Records in 2019, plus a couple of singles, he vanished for a bit. Now, he's back and cranked up the dial, diving deeper into shimmering synths, punchy drum machines and dancefloor-ready beats. His lyrics casually capture everyday Oslo life with a breezy vibe, while the music keeps you moving with its playful vibes. Though rooted in Norway's capital, Leoparden's sound is a global invite to dance that transcends time, space and place.
Review: Wewantsounds continues its deep dive into Algerian music with the first-ever reissue of Les Abranis' sought-after-by-those-who-know 1983 long player, Album No. 1. Originally recorded in Paris and privately pressed in small quantities, the album, which is also known as Id Ed Was, fuses Kabyle rhythms with funk and touches of reggae. This reissue has been curated by Cheb Gero (of recent Sweet Rebels compiling fame) and features remastered audio, though it retains the original artwork. It's a great line document of Algeria's diasporic groove with a two-page insert featuring fresh liner notes by journalist Rabah Mezouane.
Review: This new album from Les Truffles is as delicious as the thing they are named after, and as classy too. It's a deep dive into their smoky and seductive late night instrumental funk sound. The drumming is deft and feathery, the chords like puddles of bliss and the melodies hypotonic. Sometimes there is caution in the stick work to make for an unsettling mood, at others these sounds are warm and controlling for evening relaxation. Fans of El Michels Affair and Bad Bad Not Good will surely lap up this double album on Funk Night.
Review: Lettuce is a Boston-based and unstoppable funk force helmed by bassist Erick "Jesus" Coomes, saxophonist Ryan Zoidis, guitarist Adam "Shmeeans" Smirnoff, drummer Adam Deitch, keyboardist and vocalist Nigel Hall and trumpeter Eric "Benny" Bloom. Their saw is raw and direct and draws on the harmonics of Herbie Hancock and the high tempo of James Brown. Their album Outta Here b is pure, unfiltered funk and a powerful testament to their sound. Lettuce is joined by legends like guitarist John Scofield, who shreds on 'Flu the Coop' and 'Back in Effect' with Soulive's Neal Evans on B-3. Trombone icon Fred Wesley adds his magic to the James Brown-inspired 'Superfred' and the title track 'Outta Here.' Tasty stuff, for sure.
Review: Following the success of their last outing, Crush, funk innovators Lettuce are back with Mt. Crushmore, another standout collection of tracks that rank among their best work. This seven-track EP features a mix of new songs and b-sides from the Crush sessions and each one highlights the exceptional quality of that album. However, Mt. Crushmore isn't just a companion pieceiit showcases Lettuce's more experimental, spacey side, making it a unique addition to their discography as well as a fine record t reach for when you wanna get some raw funk in your life.
The Georgia Prophets - "Don't You Think It's Time" (2:13)
Frankie Newsome - "Tauting Love" (3:54)
Cashmeres - "Finally Waking Up (Bashful Man)" (2:31)
Tiny Tim Harris - "Don’t Say" (2:46)
Lenny McDaniel & The New Era - "Something Out Of Nothing" (2:32)
Lee Bates & Point Of View - "I’m Superman" (2:28)
Thomas East - "Follow The Rainbow" (3:27)
Benny Spellman - "This Is For You My Love" (2:18)
The Bobettes - "You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet" (2:30)
The Sonatas - "Going On Down The Road" (2:36)
Review: Levanna, the celebrated "Northern Soul Girl," shines in her new 'rare soul' series from the Charly vaults. As an influencer, dancer, promoter and DJ, she brings her energetic personality and deep love for Northern Soul to this LP compilation. Gathering her rare grooves in one record, this release is a DJ's delight, eliminating the need for extensive crate digging. Levanna's dedication and passion for Northern Soul music have earned her widespread respect and press acclaim. This collection captures her vibrant spirit and showcases some of the finest, hard-to-find tracks, making it an essential addition for any Northern Soul enthusiast.
Review: A new compilation which looks to celebrate the unheralded period of hugely successful Isle of Wight pop/funk band Level 42, named that after their cult funk days in the early 80s and their chart-topping victories in the middle and end of the decade. Music on Vinyl helps celebrate their 90s years with this compilation that spans the albums Guaranteed (1991) and Forever Now (1994). Originally released in 2007, this limited edition 2xLP set, pressed on vibrant 180-gram yellow vinyl, highlights the band's unique blend of funk, pop and jazz influences, with a mix of infectious grooves and introspective lyrics. The first side opens with the title track, 'Past Lives', a slick funk-driven number that sets the tone for the compilation, followed by the energetic 'Guaranteed' and the introspective 'Overtime'. Tracks like 'My Father's Shoes' explore deeper emotional landscapes, while 'Forever Now' explores the band's ability to craft smooth, soulful anthems. Side three is a ideal, featuring the infectious 'Model Friend' and the jazzy 'Romance'. Meanwhile, 'One in a Million' is a perfect example of the band's ability to blend pop hooks with sophisticated arrangements. Side four closes the compilation on a high note with 'If You Were Mine', a catchy, uplifting finale. The four-page booklet provides context for this fruitful period in Level 42's career, and the limited yellow vinyl adds an extra layer of collectible charm.
Review: This brand new 2xCD set celebrates Level 42's 1985 top three album World Machine, which was produced with Wally Badarou. The album reached #3 in early 1986 and features the hit singles 'Something About You' which peaked at #6, and 'Leaving Me Now' which went on to reach #15. In the U.S., a Shep Pettibone remix of 'Something About You' became their highest-charting single by hitting #7 on the Billboard Hot 100. CD1 includes the original album, while CD2 offers some fresh 7" edits, 12" extended versions, remixes and B-sides. The set also features a booklet with lyrics, photos and a foreword by Simon Carson and Paul Waller.
Review: Here, celebrating its 40th anniversary, Level 42's World Machine returns with a special reissue of the 1985 album that launched them to global fame. Departing from their jam-based roots, the band embraced a more structured songwriting process and also set to work producing the album themselves with engineer Julian Mendelsohn. The result was a polished, pop-funk breakthrough led by the hit single 'Something About You' which of course became a Top 10 hit worldwide, including in the U.S. Follow-up singles like the emotive 'Leaving Me Now' and the infectious "'World Machine' cemented the album's success and helped mark a major turning point in the band's career and 80s pop history.
Review: The Lijadu Sisters and Numero Group have entered into a groundbreaking partnership focused on both reissue and reparation as a way of celebrating and reexamining the impact of the iconic artists. Identical twins Yeye Taiwo and the late Kehinde Lijadu were pioneers in Nigeria's cultural golden age who released five influential albums in the 1970s, thereby helping to shape their home nation's music for over 50 years. Their unique harmonies and innovative sound have inspired artists like David Byrne, Amaarae, and Jamie xx and first up in the reissue series is a remastered edition of their 1979 album Horizon Unlimited, featuring the hit 'Come On Home,' with their entire discography and previously unreleased material all to follow.
Review: Released in 1979 on Decca's Afrodisia imprint, Horizon Unlimited stands as a landmark in the Lijadu Sisters' discography. Produced by Fela Kuti's collaborator Odion Iruoje, and featuring BLO's Laolu Akins and Lemmy Jackson, this album blends raw funk with seductive electricity. The six tracks on this reissue are a masterclass in merging traditional rhythms with modern funk, exemplified in songs like 'Orere-Elejigbo,' 'Erora,' and 'Come On Home.' Each track opens with talking drums, weaving intricate percussion with fluid basslines and subtle synth tones. The Lijadu Sisters' harmonies remain the focal point, gliding over hypnotic grooves that maintain their freshness without becoming repetitive.
Review: London Fog is the name of a live album by The Doors, but is also the name of a rock band who brought all new energy back in their day in the 1960s. In 1965, the buzz of 'swinging London' saw the opening of the Goldfinger-inspired 007 Club at the London Hilton. Harold Sakata, famously known as Oddjob, served as the host with Mick Mortimore spinning records as the DJ. Tony Craig and the Men About Town were the resident band and were captivating audiences at the city's most sought-after venue. Craig later formed the band London Fog and continued to perform regularly at the 007 Club while also recording this album full of soul and hard rock.
Review: This project celebrates B-Boying, which is one of the core elements of hip-hop culture, with tracks inspired by spontaneous dance challenges-whether in the street, subway or at a bus stop. Featured in Marc-Aurele Vecchione's ARTE series Boys and Girls Africa, the collection includes tracks like 'Perkushun,' 'Latin Breakdown' and 'Tex Mex Breaking.' Limited to just 300 copies, each vinyl sleeve is tagged, numbered, and signed by street artist Golf which makes it an authentic and collectible record for hardcore breakdancers.
Review: Mr Bongo's Cuban Classics Series now looks to highlight Los Reyes 73 and their sensational 1975 debut LP. This Afro-Cuban-funk gem combines psych rock with deep funk, cementing its status as a 70s Cuban masterpiece and a favourite with those who know. Despite releasing only two albums and a few singles, the band was highly influential in Cuba and gained international recognition through 2000s compilations. Produced by Raul Gomez and featuring Cuban music heavyweights, the album blends traditional Cuban Son with funk and psychedelic elements. The reissue uses the beautiful bird illustration cover art from the Mexican Pentagrama Records release.
Review: Bobby Lyle's 1977 classic jazz-funk album showcases his well-renowned keyboard mastery with standout tracks like the inventive title cut, 'The Genie,' which is a wild groove-driven journey through multiple shifts. His rendition of 'Night Breeze,' previously recorded by Ronnie Laws, is another highlight and the mystical 'Mother Nile' features deep rhythms while the dreamy mid-tempo roller 'Pisces' soothes. Up-tempo 'Magic Ride' and atmospheric 'You Think Of Her' showcase Bobby's rich vocals and a stellar lineup including Roland Bautista, Babatunde, Victor Feldman, Ernie Watts, and Donnie Beckhelp make this it's a definitive jazz-funk fusion gem.
Wayne McGhie & The Sounds Of Joy - "Fire (She Need Water)"
Cougars - "Right On"
Eddie Spencer - "You're So Good To Me Baby"
The Hitch-Hikers - "Mr Fortune" (feat The Mighty Pope)
Noel Ellis - "Memories"
Wayne McGhie - "Here We Go Again"
Review: Working in partnership with Light in the Attic and curated by Grammy-nominated producer, DJ and journalist Kevin Howes this wonderful new collection chronicles a vital musical migration: in late-1960s Toronto, Caribbean immigrants infused the city with ska, rocksteady and reggae and recorded some of the era's toughest tracks. Originators from Studio One, Treasure Isle and Trojan Records all united and broke racial and cultural barriers to build an influential yet under-appreciated Canadian reggae scene that is now showcased with a 20-page booklet with archival images, artist bios and essays on this double vinyl set.
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