Back catalogue: Funk/Reissues

Review: A new take on a Jonathan Richman classic from 1977 which has lit up clubs for 45-odd years, especially during the punk era. The track's infectious rhythm has inspired various reggae remixes but now it's getting a fresh cumbia twist. Cumbia and reggae share a common groove, making them a perfect match for DJs to mix and this one was recorded in Lima by Pancho Acosta, founder and guitarist of Company Quinto, who transforms the track into an upbeat cumbia gem. The flip side features Acosta's 'Carnaval de Jujuy' blended with Money Chicha's modern take on Peru's fuzzed-out chicha sound.

Review: Jonathan Richman's 'Egyptian Reggae' has been setting discerning dancefloors alight since its release in 1977, during the golden era of punk. Known for its infectious rhythm, the track has seen a few reggae remixes over the years. However, it was time for something freshia playful yet respectful cumbia twist. Both genres share a certain groove, making them a perfect match, and it's easy to imagine DJs weaving these sounds together in their sets. This new take on 'Egyptian Reggae' has been recorded in Lima by Pancho Acosta, the founder and guitarist of Company Quinto, and one of Peru's finest cumbia guitarists. Acosta brings his expert touch to the track, transforming it into an upbeat cumbia gem. On the flip side, we're treated to one of Acosta's own originals, 'Carnaval de Jujuy', recorded by Austin-based future cumbia outfit Money Chicha. The song blends Peru's fuzzed-out early chicha sound with Money Chicha's unique, modern interpretation of the genre, delivering a fresh, captivating cumbia vibe.

Review: Be Strong Be Free's 7" series is on fire this year and now comes back with a third instalment. It is 'Nuit De Fievre' and it comes from label owner Gratts, aka the "Belgian down under," who revisits disco's golden era by assembling a stellar studio team starring the Moody Mae band in the company of Reinhard Vanbergen on violin and Jaj from Paris on vocals. What they cook up in return is elegant boogie and disco that will chime well with fans of Dimitri From Paris. The B-side features Pellegrino's jazz-funk rendition, adding Mediterranean flair straight from Vesuvius. Both sides promise deliciously uplifting grooves for any disco enthusiast.

Review: The charming 'Xango' by Magalhaes from his 1986 album E Sua Guitarra on Gravasom Records is an electrifying Lambada track with haunting vocals and infectious energy that now gets reissued as part of the superb series from Mr Bongo. It is a guaranteed dancefloor rescuer for DJs worldwide and has in fact been building momentum in recent years. It remains a favourite for its driving rhythm and captivating intensity and on the B-side is 'Lambada Pauleira' by Os Panteras, which was released in 1987 on Gravasom. Known for Joutro Mundo's popular re-edit, this original version stands out with its quirky charm and undeniable appeal and is a staple for renowned Brazilian DJs, including Augusto Olivani (aka Trepanado).

Review: Magic In Threes are back with a mind-mending, strings-laden disco masterpiece, 'Liquid Star Duster'. A nimble modern disco cut whose no-more, no-less agility would fail to charm few discothes, we can vouch for this one's function on the dancefloor. Drop it in your next set and neither you nor your crowd will be displeased. Towards its latter end, 'Liquid Star Duster' even comes peppered by sprung electric finger-plucks of the most talented type, an unusual feature for a disco tune of its kind. B-sider 'Sippin' After Midnight' lowers things to a beanbag pace, posing with its hands behind its head as wah-wah exploitation funk licks and a swung peak synth line, dually lead the charge with pomp and panache.

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: The wonderful Brazil 45 series from Mr Bongo is back with its big old torch to shine a beam of deserving attention on two standout funk and bossa nova tracks from Rosa Maria, which originally came in 1972 and have remained in demand ever since. The A-side, 'Deixa Nao Deixa', blends Afro-Latin guitar, wild horns and percussion with infectious vocal harmonies that all coalesce into a Brazilian funk classic. On the B-side, 'Avenida Atlantica' delivers alternating funk and bossa beats beneath layers of vocals, horns and percussion to bring big energy and dancefloor-ready heat. This reissue ensures these timeless tracks become available for your rotation once more.

Review: Medium Wave Band's 'So Tender' is a smooth, late-night jazz slow jam with sultry, soulful vocals that feel oddly familiar. The B-side, 'Games (Instrumental)' delivers a perfect example of Britfunk and UK jazz-funk with a bass-driven groove reminiscent of Elite Records releases. Surprisingly, this 7" was a private press by the band and not released on a label. The lineup featured Elliot Browne, Ron Lyseight, Andrew Proverbs, Tony Peart, Paul Snook, Linton Levy, and the stunning vocals of Jaki Graham, best known for her hit 'Could It Be I'm Falling in Love.' Only 200 copies were pressed, mainly sold in Birmingham, and so this is a cult classic for many and a welcome reissue.

Review: Deified disco editor Mister Mushi breaks from his own Mushi 45s faction for a diplomatic dance-over with fellow sonic saucerers Disco Donuts, whose third volume in a series hammers home two more spacey soma-uplifts. 'Expansions' of course jazz-funk clarion call 'Expansions' by Lonnie Liston Smith & The Cosmic Echoes, whose importuning "expand your mind" motif will never leave us. And of course, there's 'Ghetto Passion', an unknown remix to us, yet whose beats are so punctual that they could pop an iron ballon; this is a raw, clear and seething analogue sound, a style which many disco artists have tried to emulate since.

Review: Originally released in 1983, this cult disco gem by The Mobley Gang AKA Dennis Mobley, is a true collector's item with secondhand copies fetching up to L400 quite frequently. Remarkably, it was the only track ever released under this alias and was written by Mobley and produced by Dave Ogrin and Lou Gonzales. Now, it returns on translucent pink vinyl with a classic black edition also on offer. The A-side version is a boogie-fried disco bomb packed with sizzling synths, punchy drums and expressive piano lines. The club mix strips it back into a funkier, more hypnotic groove that's perfect for instant dancefloor gratification.

Review: Ukrainian jazz singer Mona returns with a powerful funk 45 following last year's breakout 'Moya Vode' (or 'Sweet Water'). Fusing ancient folk traditions with modern cypher culture, this one delivers a message of unity and resilience while rolling on tempting grooves. Jazzy breakbeats, soaring horns and relentless clavinet and guitar riffs create the dynamic foundation for Mona's radiant vocals while loose piano and sax add a fresh live-jam feel. The vinyl edition features an exclusive instrumental version, with a Moog stepping into the lead and adding a different vibe.

Review: REPRESS ALERT!: Funkyjaws Music is back to make your body move with the latest instalment in its ongoing edit series, Let's Dance, this time with a sixth sizzling volume. Monsieur Van Pratt's loose and languid 'Besame' opens up with some gorgeous strings and funky guitar licks then Kiko Navarro brings a rich Afro flavour with the shuffling and percussive rhythms of 'Bosinga'. Bogdan Ra's 'Get On The Floor' is a fresh take on a disco classic with irresistible vocal charm and swooning pads. Last of all, Zaffa demands you 'Shake It' and you surely will as he layers up wet claps, sliding hi-hats and lively drums into a big-hearted party starter.

Review: Mr Doris steps up with D-Funk Heat, a release that comfortably balances retro flair with modern groove. The production is sharp, with funky basslines that immediately grab attention, while the crisp drums and infectious synth lines keep everything fresh. Doris's ability to blend dancefloor-ready energy with nuanced musicality shines through, making this a record that's both playful and rich in its sonic textures. There's a sense of ease throughout, a laid-back confidence that invites listeners to move while staying fully immersed in the groove. It's a nod to the past with eyes firmly on the future.

Review: Danny Krivit remains in a class of one when it comes to meticulous and masterful edits of classics. He puts out a fair few of them too, but the quality levels never dip, as is the case again here when he throws it back to the energy of his native New York's most legendary dancefloors. Opener 'Flying Machine' by War was originally composed for the 1978 film Youngblood and is a dramatic Latin-infused instrumental packed with swirling flutes, fierce perc and a breakbeat that's fuelled countless Afro house tracks. It's a fiery dancefloor weapon that hasn't been on 7" before and it comes backed with 'How Much Are They', which dives into deep dub territory with help from post-punk legends Jah Wobble, Jaki Liebezeit and Holger Czukay. It's a real mind melter packed with mad effects.

Review: The one and only Mr. K presents a two-sided treat here starting with Janice McClain's underrated 1983 disco track and featuring a smooth, laid-back groove that blends steppers vibes with mid-tempo Philly soul. Written by McClain's uncle Milt Tennant and Thom Page, it captures a classic sound that is further enhanced by McClain's heartfelt vocals. This edit trims the rare 12" version for a 7" debut with pristine sound and the B-side flips to a fresh take on 'Brazil', which was a 1975 hit by the Ritchie Family. Mr. K's edit extends the vamp section, offering a full, uninterrupted four minutes of irresistible disco joy.

Review: The magnificent Mukatsuku returns with another superb little package here on limited 12". It features the Afro disco sounds of Fred Fisher Atalobhor And His Ogiza Dance Band firstly on 'WTFS' which was originally released back in 1981. It's a booty-wiggling cut with myriad funky lines, squelchy synth motifs, lush chords and soul drenched vocals that bring the sunshine and party in equally playful measure. On the flip is 'Ebi Lolo' which is defined by its big brass section and loosey-goose guitar lines, bright chords and subtle funk. Two great gems once more from this on point label.