Back catalogue: Funk/Reissues

Review: Sun Atlas is a mysterious ensemble whose origins remain elusive. Listening to their music, you wonder whether they could have been based in Los Angeles, New York, Marrakesh or somewhere else entirely. Their only tangible existence is found on this 45, but it's a brilliant one which showcases their irresistible sound. Afrobeat, ethiojazz, surf, cinematic soul, crime jazz and funk and hip-hop breaks all colour these tunes as Sun Atlas create a razor-sharp, genre-defying mix that speaks volumes without saying much. Their music is full of drama and tension, narrative and diverse rhythms and it all adds up to an enigmatic vibe. This release proves that sometimes, the sound itself is all that matters.

Review: Mystery surrounds the L.A.-based collective Sun Atlas, known for their masked anonymity and a focus on music and community over individual fame. This ethos of oneness and universal spirit permeates their eclectic sound, blending afrobeat, cinematic soul, spiritual and ethio jazz, space sounds, hip-hop breaks, and garage funk. Following their cryptic debut single, 'The Mystic Parade' b/w 'Grand Theft,' which quickly sold out and was mistaken for "lost" hip-hop samples or 70s habibi funk, Sun Atlas returns with their full-length album Return to the Spirit. This album continues the exploration initiated by their single, inviting listeners into a mystical and cosmopolitan sonic universe.Return to the Spirit builds on the intrigue of their debut, offering a richly textured journey through a colorful soundscape. The album's expansive format allows Sun Atlas to delve deeper into their unique fusion of styles, creating a transcendental listening experience that remains firmly rooted in their commitment to collective musical expression and the breaking down of individualistic idolisation. With each track, Sun Atlas crafts a mystical, communal vibe that feels both timeless and innovative.