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Bristol-based producer Zobol lands on Brooklyn imprint Melodize with Killing Culture – a bold, four-track statement that fuses electro, breaks, and electronica into something raw, physical, and emotionally charged. Known as one half of the label Distorted Sensory Perception – a platform showcasing honest, forward-thinking electronic music – and as curator of the UK underground event series d3pth_p3rc3pti0n, Zobol brings a fiercely independent, hands-on ethos to his productions.
Built entirely on hardware – including the Korg MS20, Roland JX-3P, Prophet Rev2, Acidlab Drumatix, Behringer TD-3, Elektron Octatrack, Soundcraft Signature MTK12 console, and finished in Ableton Live – the EP captures a live-wire energy that feels both urgent and immersive.

The EP opens with “Uprising”, a track that sets a hopeful tone with flickers of brightness woven through its punchy rhythms – like the first sparks of something much bigger. Extrawelt reshapes the track with warm bass and swirling atmospheres, lending a more introspective, drifting character. Known for their decade-spanning contribution to electronic music – from their iconic debut on Border Community to defining live performances worldwide – the German duo once again deliver with a remix steeped in depth and analog soul.

The B-side turns heavier. “Weapon of Mass Distraction” unfolds from a looping synth fragment, slowly ramping into a tense, bass-driven groove that hits like controlled bursts of energy – Relentless, exacting & distractingly armoured with acidity. Closing track “Oppression” dives deeper into emotional terrain: the weight of distorted low-end channels the presence of authoritarian force, while fragile melodic elements flicker like voices struggling to be heard – eventually weakening, fading, and falling into silence.

“As shattered cultures bleed beneath a technocratic sky, the silenced cries of Palestine, Sudan, Yemen and other forgotten lands echo a world where humanity’s dawn is cruelly denied; a stark testament to faltering global systems, demanding urgent change before the irreversible erosion of our shared future.”

Norman Connors' Mr. C is a masterclass in sophisticated modern funk and boogie-infused soul that was way ahead of its time. Originally released in 1981, the album finds the renowned jazz drummer/producer at a creative crossroads, boldly diving deep into street-level boogie-funk without losing his soulful, jazzy touch. What once might have puzzled jazz purists now delights soul/funk aficionados; it has quietly become a cult favourite and now, nearly 45 years later, Mr. C sounds fresher than ever. Brimming with infectious heavy funk, lush arrangements and soul-stirring performances, it's an album that flirts with perfection, ensuring its enduring significance in the boogie/jazz-funk-soul canon.

From its opening moments, Mr. C makes one thing clear: this is Norman Connors at his funkiest. The majority of the album is a straight-up party: think dancefloor-ready beats complemented by punchy horn riffs and slick early-80s boogie vibes. There’s heavy use of synths and drum-machines, demonstrating Connors' gleeful embrace of contemporary funk trends. Each track shines in uniquely thrilling fashion, showcasing Connors’ versatility and happy knack for blending genres whilst crafting unforgettable melodies.

Irresistible thumper “She’s Gone” opens the album with a dyno-Rhodes electric piano groove and a seriously thick boogie-funk rhythm. Lush string accents and horn stabs weave through the funky bassline, while the vocals (handled by a young Beau Williams) soar with gospel-tinged emotion. Over four decades later, it endures as a masterpiece. Living up to its name, the shimmering “Party Town” brings deep Electro-Funk Energy by layering bubbling synth bass and shiny lead synth lines. The groove is downright addictive, a brisk, brass-kissed jam that implores you to move. Up next, the sophisticated funk of “Keep Doin’ It” is a low-slung post-disco glider, propelled by a sleek vibe, leaning into the late-night boogie sound. Funky guitar, tight drumming (with Connors’ jazz-honed chops in the pocket) and smooth vocals urge you to “keep doin'” whatever it is that's working. “Stay with Me” works a bit of island flavour into the mix, riding a thick Caribbean groove complete with tropical percussion and an upbeat tempo that could almost be calypsoul. The fusion of Caribbean rhythm elements into an R&B context demonstrates Connors’ willingness to experiment with global sounds while keeping things soulful and danceable.

Side B opens with the sassy funk-deluxe workout, "Anyway You Want" dripping with that soulful strut. Bringing a real quiet storm swagger, “Sing a Love Song” slows the tempo ever so slightly into a sexy, swaying jazz-funk gem, featuring a young Glenn Jones on lead vocals. The arrangement is elegant, built on warm keys and an undeniable groove. The celestial “Love’s In Your Corner” is all about soulful uplift. Featuring the legendary Jean Carn's powerhouse vocals soaring over a brass-kissed driving funk, it's an R&B burner. The refined, jazzy instrumental “Mr. C” is a slinky, smooth, funk-filled mid-tempo groove, with sax and warm keys gliding effortlessly. Connors combines jazzy arrangements into the post-disco/boogie framework one last time, and the result is sublime. It’s sophisticated and cool and, as a finale, “Mr. C” wraps up the album in classy style.

On release, Mr. C flew under the radar but time has been exceptionally kind to this record. DJs, collectors and soul connoisseurs alike have since rediscovered its magic. As ever, this crucial reissue has been lovingly remastered by Simon Francis, cut by engineer of the year Cicely Balston at Abbey Road Studios and pressed to perfection by Record Industry in Holland. Norman Connors was something truly extra. He was a visionary. And Mr. C is proof.

Tea Breaks is based in Todmorden in the north of the UK. Although it's a small market town, it's well known for its pub, The Golden Lion, and the quality DJ bookings it gets. The label is proving just as good with yet another great collision of legendary hip-hop sounds and global beats. 'Breathe & Stop' has Bollywood vocals and classic East Coast bars, 'Tea & Beer' has drunken rhythms and world percussion with silky female rap tones, 'Broad Nod Factor' rolls deep with a golden-era edge and sunny flutes and 'Ms Fat Booty' shuts down with dark soul swagger. Four great mash-ups.

Explore the deep roots of Afro Funk with the 7" vinyl "Jungle Bird Tree" by Funky Destination, carefully released by the eclectic label Sound Exhibitions Records. This sonic gem is a testament to Funky Destination's skill in blending Afrocentric rhythms with the vibrant spirit of funk, creating a musical experience that captures the soul and gets the feet moving.
Jungle Bird Tree by Funky Destination is a musical journey that bridges the past and the present, an immersion into the rich tradition of Afro Funk through the fresh and innovative perspective of a contemporary artist. An unmissable addition to the collection of those who appreciate the fusion of global rhythms and the compelling power of funk.

The Vessel Recordings Group label is headed up by Ira James who has shown he has great taste when it comes to tapping into global house sounds. This new EP is another standout with Toronto talent Demuir behind the beats. He brings his signature mix of influxes to this one starting with 'Conversing With Angels' which has disco-tinged loops and soulful, feel-good vibes that liven up any party. 'Everynight' has a deep cut and funky groove that is made all the more arresting and emotive with the vocals and smart synth filters, while 'Mizz Hunni' comes as a hefty tech stomper and also as a dub.

Originally released following his acclaimed sophomore album, HYBRIDISM finds Ecuadorian producer Nicola Cruz at the height of his exploratory powers. Now reissued on limited editon green vinyl, this expansive EP re-emerges with renewed relevance—blending North African rhythms, ethereal Persian motifs, and vocal fragments that evoke both ancient traditions and imagined worlds. A contemporary take on global exotica, HYBRIDISM is a vital entry in Cruz’s ever-evolving sonic journey.

'Aima’, named after the refrain sung by Igbo girls from Nigeria, creates the illusion that you’ve dusted off a lost LP. The aesthetic details recall expertly produced French exotica from the 70s, an overall feeling of warmth and character rarely pulled off with such panache.

‘Naeku,' in Cruz’s words, is "a sorrowful song in minor tonalities, but with a warrior energy, strength and forward vision: a soul departs, but a new one arrives in the name of Naeku, a maasai child. Not all grief needs to be a suffering; a feeling which I can relate to the place I come from with a Quechua word: Llaquilla - triste, pero feliz (sad, but happy). As always, the 303 adds that heart touching feeling.” If there’s a template for Multi Culti’s ethos, Cruz has synthesized the formula: Masai lamentation filtered through Quechua wisdom with a touch of 303 for the soul.

'Drom Tradisie' is a nostalgic vignette that captures the fantasy of a scenic horizon on a lost beach, a portrait done with the FM domain of synths that somehow associates with tropical imagery.

'Third Eye Dub’ takes things deeper, exploring the fractal realm of concentration, a point where the Oud (played by Nasiri) acts on the pineal gland. This inward journey through the cavernous depths of the subconscious sails on a smooth modular groove that transports the listener across this psychic expanse, a filigree of Persian harmonies (in Shur, to be exact) tracing outlines in the dark.

Finally, 'Kawe’s Dream’ ventures even further into the imaginary spaces of the mind. It is an aural reconstruction of the Tibetan Bardo Thodol, or ‘Book of the Dead’, a sacred text that guides the spirit through the passage out of the body. In Nicola’s words "To paint that depth, I had these Tibetan chants in mind, that I ended up crafting with Ableton's vocoder over a piece of Ayan’s vocals (sung in a made-up language). A few notes, and it gave the gravity I was looking for in the song.” Stuff that only a producer as capable as Cruz could pull off.

Hybridism’s five tracks are sonically diverse, yet all possess an ephemeral quality, a pastoral, transitory feeling that travels through the music - we listen to the sounds pass us by, we might even catch a hook or two, but the feeling is of sand running through our hands, deep, elusive, beautiful.

Blending Afro-Brazilian roots, electronic textures and transatlantic songwriting, Yemamaya is the debut album by French-Brazilian duo Luizga & iZem, born from a chance meeting on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Lisbon. The project brings together the melodic and spiritual sensibility of Brazilian singer Luizga with the urban, hybrid touch of producer iZem, creating a musical journey that feels both grounded and universal.



At the heart of the album is the title track “Yemamaya”, a word whispered to Luizga in a dream. It pays tribute to Yemanjá, the Afro-Brazilian sea goddess. The song is a joyful and healing incantation, carried by Luizga’s luminous voice and subtle electronic arrangements that bridge the sacred and the rhythmic. It’s an ode to the feminine, to the ocean, and to vital energy.



“Say My Name” boldly reimagines the Destiny’s Child classic through a fresh and soulful lens. Silky R&B vocals glide over warm Brazilian acoustic guitar, while Afrobeat-inspired rhythms bring an irresistible pulse. A surprise horn section blossoms mid-track into a deep, sultry bass drop. The result is both nostalgic and forward-thinking — a perfect snapshot of the duo’s aesthetic.



On “Feelings Going Through”, the instantly recognizable voice of Curumin — a key figure on Brazil’s alternative music scene — adds a new dimension. The track is a smooth, soulful meditation on emotion, wrapped in organic percussion and refined production.



Rooted in the legacy of Brazilian popular music while embracing the global sounds of today, Yemamaya is a free-spirited and luminous musical statement. An album that sits at the crossroads of genres and continents, where introspection meets celebration.

Formed in the legendary Italian disco scene of the late 70s, CHANGE's produced hits such as 'The Glow of Love' and 'Searching', transcending national borders to become global icons of a soulful dance music that fused European sophistication with American soul influences. This new single featuring the beautiful voice of Tanya Michelle Smith perfectly captures the essence of soulful disco, blending live instruments with delicious vocals and should appeal to a wide range of dance music fans old and young…Package includes 2 MM & AT’s remixes plus Original and Figo Sound & JL Remix.

2025 Repress

It's rare that a certain sound is entirely an artist's own. Although undeniably a stew of impeccable influences - from blues to folk to Latin to dusty funk, soul and hip-hop - one cannot hear a Tommy Guerrero song without immediately recognising it as his - and his only.The cult skater from San Francisco is globally renowned as one of the original members of the legendary "Bones Brigade" team. And as an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, his laid-back soul is beloved by all who've basked in its blissful glow.There's something elemental about this music that really stirs the soul. Strikingly beautiful and instantly addictive, it's a kind of funk-fuelled, melody-driven, groove-based magic. There's a serenity and heart in the playing that radiates warmth and splendour, as if crafted for endless sunsets. His albums that surfaced on Mo Wax at the turn of the century have been treasured since their release and it's two of his most vital LPs that we're honoured to reintroduce.The originals were quietly pressed on to a single piece of vinyl so we've worked closely with Tommy this year to bring you these fresh, limited editions. They have been lovingly remastered, cut nice and loud on to heavyweight double vinyl and presented in deluxe gatefold jackets.A Little Bit Of Somethin' is a quietly majestic gem. Brimming with Guerrero's horizontal "loose grooves", these brief but innovative instrumentals demonstrate a rich variety and, as such, comprise an LP that is aptly titled. An enchanting start-to-finish listen, it was instantly regarded as essential upon release via Mo Wax in 2000. It has aged remarkably well.Throughout this inspired collection, simplicity is key. In deploying it, Guerrero presents a beautifully crafted melodic soundscape. The distinctive, mellifluous approach of his guitar style, blending Brazilian, Cuban, Mexican, soul and jazz motifs, is at once startlingly new and tantalisingly familiar. Set against unrushed percussion, the music releases a crystal clear stream of healing frequencies to create a fragile, hypnotic atmosphere.Each track clocks in at around three minutes and, with a lack of studio polish or commitment to traditional song structure, it's a wonder how this enigmatic record demands your attention. However, through its gentle dynamism and impressive playing, it does just that. Whilst resolutely low-key, this lo-fi aesthetic feels genuinely organic and remarkably personal, its powerful intimacy truly connects. It's what makes this album so beloved of those lucky enough to be already familiar with it. From Margaret Kilgallen's truly iconic cover artwork to the music contained within, it's all brilliantly effortless.Guerrero's musical ideas are consistently compelling throughout, making it impossible to select highlights. The album's laconic drift touches upon jazz-fusion workouts and slow-mo hip-hop drums, Tortoise-style experimental post-rock and cinematic sound textures. It's at once hazy, light and bouncy yet sombre and bluesy. The Latin soul of El Chicano blends with the breezy jazz of Grant Green. By employing guitars and drum machines to create a stripped down rhythmic tapestry of spellbinding, addictive songs, there are even traces of The Durutti Column. A little bit of country, a little bit of rock & roll. A Little Bit Of Somethin', indeed.

A pioneering force in African music, Jo Tongo has always been on top of the game. Since the late 60s he has been recording music under his early Jojo L'Explosif moniker. His debut album "Jo Tongo" was released 1976 on Fiesta/Decca and features classic tracks like Jangolo and Piani. Now, after decades of underground influence and global recognition, his second album Sa Discossa (1980) is re-released for the first time. Being an electrifying fusion of African rhythms, disco, makossa, reggae and funk it is reflecting his lifelong journey of musical exploration and cultural storytelling and claims its place as an essential recording in the Afro-disco movement.
Jo Tongo's music is inseparable from his life's story-a journey that spans continents, struggles, and victories. From his early years as a leading African musician before the global rise of Afrobeat, to his deep roots in classical training, and his time performing in France and Germany, his sound is shaped by a rich blend of influences. Having played in bands across Europe, from American military bases in Germany to the jazz and soul circuits of Paris, he absorbed the pulse of multiple musical worlds, creating a sound uniquely his own.
"My music is my life. I never saw it as a way to become a star-I am a simple man," Tongo explains. "I came into music to say something, to tell about life, to share my experiences with the world." His perspective on fame and artistry is deeply rooted in his Cameroonian background. "I wasn't interested in business. I wanted to build something with music, to create a sound that was mine."
But Jo Tongo's music has always carried a deeper message. His work reflects his strong political stance against colonialism, social injustice, and oppression. "I cannot stay silent while my people suffer," he says. "Music is a way to resist, to stand strong, and to remind people of their dignity and their power." Throughout his career, Tongo has used his platform to advocate for African identity and independence. His songs, layered with messages of social consciousness, have continued to resonate with younger generations who recognize the relevance of his words even today.
Sa Discossa is more than just a disco record. It embodies Jo Tongo's philosophy of resistance, identity, and celebration. The title itself is a blend of "disco" and "makossa," reflecting the seamless fusion of African groove and the dancefloor energy that defined the era. Tracks like Bunya, sung in his native language, carry messages of love, gratitude, and resilience-sentiments that remain as relevant today as they were nearly 50 years ago. As Tongo describes it, "Every day, give thanks and praise to your Lord. Every day, show me your love. Every day, let me show you my tender love."
Tongo's musical journey also took him through the world of reggae, inspired by his exposure to American and Caribbean artists. "At first, I didn't like reggae-it was too slow for me," he admits. "But then I heard Bob Marley, and I realized the power in its simplicity. The rhythm, the
message-it was all connected to something bigger." He later found himself embracing reggae as an essential part of his musical DNA. "I realized that my music and reggae shared the same roots. We are all connected, all telling the same story in different ways."
Having spent much of his career performing across Europe, Jo Tongo reflects on his connection with international audiences. "I've played everywhere-from Africa to Germany, from Paris to other cities in France and what I've learned is that music speaks a universal language. You don't need to know the words to feel the message."
Despite taking a step back from the stage in recent years, he remains open to new possibilities. "Music is like a fire-it never truly dies. I have a lot to say, and music is the best way to say it."
For Jo Tongo, music is more than entertainment-it's a language of truth, a testament to history, and a bridge between cultures. The rhythm of Sa Discossa lives on, stronger than ever. With Sa Discossa returning under the African Edge series on The Outer Edge label, Jo Tongo's legacy continues to resonate, proving that real music never fades.

The cultured creative minds of James Simonson and Blair French reunite for this new Realities Remix EP on MotorCity Wine which was, in original form, recorded by Simonson in hotel rooms across Europe and the Americas while touring with soul legend Bettye LaVette. As such it takes in myriad global influences as well as evocative field recordings which get reworked in style. Blair French adds his touch with three remixes, firstly the anthemic 'Realities (Projector Remix),' then the more dance-driven 'Elektronolux Overture (Sunday Remix)' and the lush and downtempo 'Hannah (Remix)' featuring violinist Sonia Lee. Two originals 'Realities' and 'Elektronolux Overture' also appear on vinyl for the first time and sound superb.

SofaTalk is an Italian producer known for his eclectic and genre-blending approach to electronic music. Drawing inspiration from the global underground, nu-jazz, and his roots in Italy, his sound is rich, experimental, and difficult to categorize, yet always engaging. Alongside running his label Cognitiva Records and curating events and radio shows, he continues to refine his style through remixes and collaborations.

His latest project, *The Soul's Code*, released via Oathcreations, is an 8-track album that further explores his unconventional sound. Featuring collaborations with Veezo and Zopelar, the album fuses house, funk, broken beat, dub, and jazz in imaginative ways. Tracks like "Dub Lush" and "The Truth" highlight SofaTalk's ability to craft deeply textured productions, while "Paradiddle," "Complex Journey," and "Around" showcase his playful, lo-fi sensibilities and love for rhythmic experimentation. The album closes with "Magpie Rules," a dreamy, breakbeat-driven finale that captures the surreal energy of the entire release. With support from artists like Fred P, Carista, and Bradley Zero, *The Soul's Code* is another bold step in SofaTalk's constantly evolving musical journey.

Voom Voom Records and Fred Spider presents, The Future Is Now, along with The Tune Recreation Committee. Mandla Mlangeni's project, co-produced and including some compositions from the virtuoso Afrika Mkhize, this masterwork transcends boundaries, weaving South African jazz heritage with global influences into a tapestry of sound that feels both timeless and revolutionary.

The formidable core ensemble expands its sonic palette with extraordinary guest collaborators including classical flautist Khanyi Mthethwa and 2020 Standard Bank Young Artist Sisonke Xonti, and Mark Fransman, Reza Khota, Yonela Mnana, Nick Williams, Haile Supreme...The album pays heartfelt tribute to giants who shaped their journey—Bra Hugh Masekela in the stirring “Wena Fela” and trumpet innovator Roy Hargrove in the soulful “RH”—while confidently establishing TRC’s distinctive musical identity.

These ten compositions represent the pinnacle of creative exploration and ensemble interplay. The Tune Recreation Committee continues to push boundaries and reimagine the possibilities of South African jazz with uncompromising vision and breathtaking artistry.

Remastered for the vinyl by Simbad.

Nail Tolliday is a legendary figure in the UK electronic music scene, hailing from Nottingham, having founded the influential Velocet and 89:GHOST labels, and currently running the *In The Dance* label, Tolliday has played an integral role in shaping the sound of underground dance music, with a career that dates back to the early 90s, his impeccable reputation spans across a wealth of releases on renowned labels such as Classic, Robsoul, and many others, his discography is nothing short of extensive, earning him praise from some of the most respected figures in the electronic music world, including Andrew Weatherall, Colin Faver, Fred Everything, and Danny Howells, beyond his solo work, Nail Tolliday was also part of the iconic group Bent, and in a further testament to his versatility, he has produced multiple tracks for the globally celebrated Sleaford Mods, his sound evokes the essence of classic house and disco from the early 90s, reminiscent of the pioneering works of DJ Sneak, Romanthony, and others who defined the era's vibrant dance scene, this latest EP is a masterclass in the golden era of dance music, seamlessly blending early house vibes with sultry, disco-infused grooves, it exudes a timeless, classy funk that will captivate any dancefloor, the EP as a whole feels like a cohesive journey through Tolliday's rich musical influences, while also carving out its own identity in the modern dance music landscape, each track on the EP is an essential offering, « Shakey » delivers a funky, infectious rhythm that immediately commands attention, the bassline grooves effortlessly, while the vocal snippets add an extra layer of depth, creating an instant floor-filler, « Oh Well » takes a more melodic turn, with smooth chords and a sophisticated vibe, making it perfect for those late-night moments when the energy is just right, « All I Want » is pure house magic, with soulful, driving percussion and a hypnotic vocal that brings everything together in a silky, irresistible package, « Starz » brings an upbeat, celebratory feel, packed with infectious melodies and a buoyant energy that's impossible to ignore, « Feel Like » wraps up the EP with a deeper, more introspective groove, complete with subtle synths and a rich, atmospheric atmosphere that lingers long after the track ends, this EP is a true testament to Nail Tolliday's legacy, showcasing his ability to create music that is both timeless and relevant, his style, while deeply rooted in the traditions of 90s house and disco, is infused with a modern sensibility that proves why he remains a living legend in the dance music world, strikingly, his sound also recalls the work of another recent house maverick, Soundstream, with its deep, raw grooves and unapologetic commitment to the classic roots of house music.

There’s a particular magic that happens when seasoned producers with global roots come together under a shared ethos - not for hype, but for connection. That’s precisely what MISINGO represents. A cross-continental studio experiment born out of Covid-era isolation, the group spans hemispheres and histories: Yorkshire's Doorly, L.A. legend Gary Richards (aka Destructo), and Australian duo Colour Castle. Their debut offering, Give You Love, lands via UK House Music institution Hard Times Records, and it’s as emotionally resonant as it is built for the floor.

Anchored by a slow-burning acid line and moody, immersive synthwork, 'Give You Love' carries the DNA of classic house without feeling like pastiche. DJ Rae’s smokey vocal, recorded in Doorly’s Ibiza studio, sets the tone - raw, intimate, immediate. Gene Farris enters with a gravelly, magnetic counterpoint, flipping the call-and-response into something spiritual. It’s a record that feels both new and deeply lived-in, a jam session from afar that somehow lands with unity and purpose.

For the remix suite, Hard Times dig into family ties and deliver a heavyweight lineup that spans generations of dance music lineage.

First up, DJ Pierre, the Phuture pioneer himself, brings a Wild Pitch revision that is pure summer sleaze and shimmer. Glistening keys, kinetic snares, and a syrup-thick bassline collide in a mix that’s tailor-made for golden-hour sets and open-air systems.

DJ Romain brings that New York swing. All velvet chords, stabbing pianos, and organ swells that spiral skyward. It’s gospel-house energy that doesn’t need to shout to be heard, a reminder that soul still moves the dancefloor.

Closing out the package is Charles Lavine of Soul Clap fame, whose Boston-bred funk sensibility steers things into new territory. He strips back the mix, lets Rae’s vocal ride the groove, and injects a subtle bounce that turns heads and hips in equal measure.

With 'Give You Love', MISINGO and Hard Times haven’t just released a single, they’ve bottled a moment: one born of distance, stitched together with soul, and destined for collective release on dancefloors worldwide.

Satya is excited to welcome Sweden’s very own Chris Llopis, a veteran of electronic music, with his highly anticipated EP Echo Ridge, to its vinyl only catalog.

Chris has been a prominent figure in electronic music since the late ‘90s, releasing on respected labels like Fabric Records, Tooloop, and Micronica. Inspired by a trip to Spain at age 13, Chris began DJing on Technics SL1210 turntables and later immersed himself in Copenhagen’s vibrant techno scene. His first vinyl release on Tatsu in 1998 brought him global recognition. Today, Chris’s sound blends timeless influences with modern techniques.

Echo Ridge is inspired by Chris’s love for funk-driven bass lines and the energy of underground raves. “I wanted to create tracks with strong rhythms and a playful edge,” he says. “The bass line is the soul of a track, and this EP captures the vibe of late-night moments when everything clicks.” The EP combines the groove-heavy minimal style of the late ‘90s with a fresh, contemporary edge, delivering tracks that energize the dance floor.

Chris’s creative process thrives during early morning studio sessions. “It’s the perfect time for clarity and creativity,” he shares. For Echo Ridge, Chris used iconic gear like the Juno 106, Elektron Analog Four, Eventide H3000, and Roland Space Echo RE-201, alongside Ableton 12 and Max for Live, to craft its warm, textured sound.

Out on the shelves June 13, 2025, the EP is a celebration of Llopis’s evolution as an artist and his deep connection to the dance floor. With its groove-driven energy and meticulous attention to detail, the release is a must-have for fans of minimal house and vinyl enthusiasts alike.

The Aachen Jazz Files

A collection of essential jazz from the NABEL record label (1980-1994), compiled by miche & Rainer Truby.

The Aachen Jazz Files celebrates the pioneering spirit of NABEL Records—one of Germany’s most underrated yet influential independent jazz labels. Founded in 1980 by Rainer Wiedensohler, NABEL became a home for innovative musicians blending classic acoustic jazz with fusion, Brazilian rhythms, and avant-garde flourishes.

This compilation collects some of the label’s finest moments, including the soulful and Latin-tinged brilliance of Monika Linges Quartet (whose album *Floating* was reissued last year by PANORAMA Records for RSD Black Friday), the cosmic jazz explorations of John Thomas & Lifeforce, the deep jazz-funk grooves of Hipsters In The Zone, and the stunning, expressive vocals of Maria João’s quintet.

Nestled in the far west of Germany, near the Dutch and Belgian borders, Aachen has long been a hidden gem for jazz lovers. Its vibrant scene, fueled by music schools and the legendary Malteserkeller jazz club, cultivated a unique sound that resonated far beyond its city limits. In fact, the city didn’t just birth a jazz movement—it also lays claim to opening Germany’s first discotheque in 1959.

From London to Tokyo, NABEL’s releases became secret weapons for jazz DJs seeking deep, danceable cuts. The label’s trademark blend of acoustic jazz, fusion, and Brazilian influences made its way onto turntables in underground clubs and festival stages worldwide.

Expect elegant samba jazz, spiritual grooves, and modal masterpieces that capture the essence of NABEL’s golden years. Monika Linges’ contributions shine with her rich harmonies and heartfelt compositions, while John Thomas & Lifeforce deliver a perfect storm of fiery instrumentation and deep soul. Maria João’s early recordings showcase her extraordinary vocal range, and Hipsters In The Zone bring a forward-thinking, acid jazz-infused perspective to the NABEL sound.

As co-compiler Rainer Truby puts it:

'NABEL Records always had this special ‘Aachen sound’—a jazz flavor that carried its own energy, somewhere between the cool sophistication of fusion and the warmth of Brazilian music. It’s a pleasure to finally bring together some of these classics in one essential collection.'

Compiled by miche & Rainer Truby.

PANORAMA Records is a London-based label dedicated to unearthing and reintroducing rare and essential music to new generations. With a focus on jazz, funk, and global grooves, the label has built a reputation for high-quality reissues that capture the spirit of the originals while providing fresh context for today’s listeners. Their past releases have garnered support from tastemakers like Gilles Peterson, Patrick Forge, and Mr Bongo DJs.

Change, founded in 1980 by Mauro Malavasi, Jacques Fred Petrus, Davide Romani, and
Paolo Gianolio, is a legendary band on the interna#onal soul/disco scene, renowned for
launching iconic voices such as Luther Vandross and Jocelyn Brown.
Their debut album, The Glow of Love, was produced in 1979 between Bologna and New
York. Widely regarded as one of the greatest disco/soul/funk LPs of all #me, it achieved
enormous interna#onal success. It was the first Italian produc#on in this genre to enter the
Billboard 200 chart, peaking at #29 and earning a Gold Record. The singles “A Lover’s
Holiday” (Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100), “Searching,” and the #tle track “The Glow of
Love” (which reached #2 in Italy) solidified the album’s global impact.
So influen#al was the record that in 2001, Janet Jackson sampled the #tle track for her hit
“All for You,” which went on to win the Grammy Award for Best R&B Recording.
Throughout the 1980s, Change released five addi#onal albums:
• Miracles (1981)
• Sharing
Your Love (1982)
• This Is Your Time (1983)
• Change of Heart (1984, produced by Jimmy
Jam & Terry Lewis)
• Turn on Your Radio (1985)
In 2010, the previously unreleased album Change Your Mind—recorded in the 1990s and
produced by Davide Romani—was finally released.
In 2018, aEer a 33-year hiatus, Love 4
Love marked the band’s comeback. Produced by Romani and Stefano Colombo, the album
introduced vocalist Tanya Michelle Smith and featured eight original tracks wriGen by
Romani, Malavasi, Colombo, and Elio Baldi Cantù. The singles included:
• “Hit or Miss” (remixed by Soulpersona)
• “Love 4 Love” (also remixed by Joey Negro)
• “Make Me (Go
Crazy)” (remixed by Opolopo)
Embrace (2025), credited to Change feat. Tanya Michelle Smith, represents the natural
musical evolu#on of Love 4 Love. Originally conceived in 2019 as Tanya Michelle Smith’s solo
album, it was later reviewed by producer Stefano Colombo together with Mauro Malavasi,
who approved the material and authorized the use of the name “Change.” Malavasi also
contributed to the cover design and selected the album #tle: Embrace.
The first single, “Sunrise Forever,” was released on January 10. The remix by Michael Gray
reached #1 on Traxsource and ranked high on the UK Soul Chart.
The album’s release was postponed when Davide Romani and Stefano Colombo decided to
complete an unfinished demo from the Love 4 Love sessions. Some original parts were lost
due to a corrupted backup, but in 2025 the track was completely rearranged with a newly
recorded bassline by Romani and fresh backing vocals.
On April 4, the single “Got 2 Get Up” was released across all digital plaOorms, receiving
strong radio airplay across Europe and entering the UK Soul Chart. On May 16, a remix by
renowned Italian duo Micky More & Andy Tee will be released in an#cipa#on of the album.
Embrace includes ten original tracks and one cover.
The album will be available on CD and vinyl, distributed by Self Distribuzione Srl. The first
500 vinyl copies will be issued as a limited “Expanded Edi&on”, including the full album plus
a bonus 12” single with Michael Gray’s remixes of “Sunrise Forever.”

In an ever-expanding musical universe, Azymuth have long existed as a celestial giant, drawing countless artists, musicians and followers into their orbit. Marking fifty years since their 1975 debut album Azimuth, their new album Marca Passo proves that the band’s alchemic brew of Brazilian jazz-funk and cosmic samba soul remains as vital as ever, as the group honours the profound legacy of their departed founders.

Recorded in Rio de Janeiro, Marca Passo is the first full-length release since the passing of founding drummer Ivan "Mamão" Conti in 2023, following the earlier loss of keyboardist José Roberto Bertrami in 2012. Alex Malheiros, the sole remaining original member, sees his stewardship of the band’s musical legacy as his spiritual duty. He is joined by the equally devoted Kiko Continentino (Milton Nascimento, Djavan) on keyboards, who has been with the group since 2016, and new recruit Renato Massa (Marcos Valle, Ed Motta) on drums.

Yet since their earliest recorded music, Azymuth have always been far greater than the sum of their parts. The "three-man orchestra’s" unmistakable sound is rooted in Brazil's MPB studio scene of the 1970s and early 1980s—a time when artists blended traditional Brazilian rhythms with global jazz, rock, and emerging psychedelic and progressive elements. Marca Passo continues this legacy, seamlessly fusing Brazilian musical traditions with global influences while showcasing the exceptional musicianship that powers Azymuth's distinctive, multi-dimensional sound.

The album is produced by studio mastermind Daniel Maunick, responsible for Azymuth’s two previous studio albums, Fênix in 2016 and Aurora in 2011. Daniel’s credits also include albums by Marcos Valle, Sabrina Malheiros and Terry Callier. Azymuth also invited Daniel’s father, British jazz-funk royalty Jean Paul “Bluey” Maunick, of Incognito, to play guitar on a new version of Azymuth’s eighties classic “Last Summer In Rio”, in tribute to the song’s composer, José Roberto Bertrami. Equally, “Samba Pro Mamao” is a new composition dedicated to Azymuth’s beloved original drummer, Ivan “Mamão” Conti.

Credits:

Alex Malheiros - Bass, Acoustic Guitar & Vocals: 1,2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Kiko Continentino - Keyboards, Organ, Vocoder & Vocals: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Renato Massa - Drums & Vocals: : 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10
Ian Moreira - Percussion: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10
Sidinho Moreira - Percussion: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10
Dudu Viana - Keyboards & Vocals: 1
Victor Bertrami - Drums: 1
Mangueirinha - Repinique: 3
Jean Paul ‘Bluey’ Maunick - Electric Guitar: 5
Jose Carlos Bigorna - Soprano Sax: 9
Daniel Maunick: Additional Percussion, Synths & EFX: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Produced, Engineered, Mixed & Arranged by Daniel Maunick
Co-Produced & Arranged by Alex Malheiros
Executive Producer: Joe Davis


Recorded by:
Daniel Maunick & Leonardo Vieira @ Estúdio Nos Trilhos, Santa Teresa, Rio, Brazil
Daniel Maunick & Amadeu Signorelli @ Sigstudio, Niterói, Rio, Brazil
Daniel Maunick & Alex Malheiros @ Estúdio Basslab, Piratininga, Rio, Brazil
Mixed by Daniel Maunick @ The Sugar Shack, Carluke, Scotland


Artwork & Design: Tyler Askew

Neba Solo, whose real name is Souleymane Traoré, is a true living legend of Malian music. His voice and balafon playing are unique, instantly recognizable, and deeply cherished throughout Mali.

He gained international recognition with his iconic track CAN 2002, composed for the famous African Cup of Nations. This success opened doors to global stages, leading to tours in the United States, Asia, and Europe. Prestigious labels such as Cobalt and Secousse supported this exceptional period in the artistic journey of this musical genius.

For many years, Neba Solo has closely collaborated with Yaya Diarra, the sound engineer of the legendary Bogolan studio in Bamako. Diarra played a key role in preserving and recording the works of the balafon master from Sikasso. He was also the one who invited Dom Peter to work on a bold and resolutely modern project: an album with more electronic sounds, enriched with drum machines, offering a new artistic direction to Neba Solo’s compositions.

Dom Peter and Yaya Diarra immersed themselves in the studio to conceive and produce this album, titled TUMA DUMA. The result is a perfect alchemy, where electronic rhythms blend seamlessly with traditional percussion, redefining the richness of Malian musical heritage.

These nine tracks explore classic themes of the Mandingue repertoire while showcasing Neba Solo’s unique way of narrating both everyday life and universal stories