Manteca’s 2014 album, first time on vinyl. Manteca, the London Latin jazz/salsa funk combo, are back with a first-time vinyl release of their brilliant digital album “Oye” from 2014. “Oye” is a collection of heavy-duty Latin music that reaches well beyond the standard salsa or Cuban dance-band style, appealing to anyone and everyone, from mambo dancers to B-boys, jazz brothers to soul sisters! Led by Colombian singer Martha Acosta and bassist Javier Fioramonti, who have played with everyone from Roberto Pla and Candela, to Alex Wilson’s groups and Salsa Celtica, as well as backing Latin legends such as Joe Bataan, Jack Costanzo, Henry Fiol and Azuquita, this band really cooks! “Que Pasa” is smoking Latin funk, this will get your head nodding and foot tapping for sure.“Oye”, a lovely mid-tempo Afrobeat/Latin jazz fusion number with punching brass and super-funky kit playing. There are three cover versions on the album: Horace Silver’s “The Jody Grind”, a 1960s Blue Note Records soul jazz classic. Manteca does it justice, taking the original and turning it into a heavy Mongo Santamaria style funky Latin soul belter. Sergio Mendes’s “Groovy Samba” is also given the 1960s Mongo “Watermelon Man” style Latin soul jazz treatment. Very hip arrangement, and some fantastic brass soloing in there too. The last one is a brave choice. It’s the timeless bolero standard “Como Fue”, which the band plays beautifully. “Para Pello” (“For Pello”), a conga-style big percussive beat that evolved from Afro-Cuban street carnivals. Secondly, “Bomba Chevere”, a blend of Puerto Rican bomba and Colombian cumbia. The big Afro-Cuban track of the album is “Descarga China”, which has two different mixes. One is a descarga funk mix with some heavyweight kit playing and smoking trumpet soloing, while the other is a more straight-ahead Latin jam with Javier’s upright bass playing underpinning the whole number in a very Cachao way. Big shouts to the whole band, which features some of the best musicians from the London Latin music scene of the last three decades. These cats are as good as you’ll get in Latin music from anywhere across the world.This London Latin music gem has been crying out for a vinyl release for over a decade. At last, it's here. Slap it on the turntable, drop the needle on track one, turn the volume up, press play and be ready to dance. Standing still is NOT an option! DJ Lubi (One Jazz / Totally Wired Radio)
2024 Repress
If anyone in the reggae circles could be described as having their own sound it would have to be Mr Augustus Pablo, born Horace Swaby 1954 St Andrew Jamaica. He took the humble melodica a wind blown mouth keyboard and made it shine.
His musical journey started one sunny day in 1969. Walking into Herman Chin- loy's Aquarius Records shop and on playing his melodica so impressed its owner that he was taken off to Randy's Studio 17, the very next day to cut his first record 'Iggy Iggy'. But it was his second tune under the guidance of Clive Chin again cut at Randy's, the seminal 'Java ' that put the young Augustus Pablo on the map. Clive Chin continued his work producing Pablo's debut album 'THIS IS AUGUSTUS PABLO' . An instrumental affair on which the neo-mystical ''Far East'' sound synonymous with Pablo's work emerged.
Having worked with most of the top producers of the time,Lee Perry,Keith Hudson, Bunny Lee, Augustus decided to set up his own label "Rockers", named after his brothers sound system. Where many of his tunes would first be heard.The label came to define a new and exciting chapter in reggae history.Even when versioning acknowledged classic Studio One rhythms there was a precious maturity and depth to Pablo's productions that kept him at the top throughout the late 1970s and into the 1980s. His 'King Tubby meets the Rockers Uptown' set which featured some of these rhythms reworked; Swing EasySkanking Easy, Frozen SoulFrozen Dub, stands as one of the true dub classic albums of any reggae education.
This set of dubs are taken from his classic 70's period.All rare dubs straight from the masters. You may have heard the tune, but not these versions. So sit back and enjoy the Original Rocker..... STILL SOUNDS SWEET.
RESPECT....JAH FLOYD.
The Soft Apocalypse ist ein Triumph der Selbstfindung. Das Debüt von Henry J. Star entstand aus einer Mischung aus Aufrichtigkeit, Absicht und einem breiten Spektrum an musikalischen und nicht-musikalischen Interessen, darunter Cloud Rap, japanische Abenteuerspiele und Literatur. Das Album wurde vollständig von dem Multi-Instrumentalisten Devin Badgett geschrieben, produziert und eingespielt, der bereits durch frühere Projekte als Performer und Songwriter bekannt ist. The Soft Apocalypse ist eine Geschichte vom Ende der Welt am Ende der Welt und eine Anerkennung der überwältigenden Schönheit und unerträglichen Gewalt, die das Anthropozän vorantreibt. Eine detaillierte Schilderung des Pessimisten und Optimisten, die auf eine katastrophale Evolution zusteuern. Jeder Song ist ein lebhafter Blick nach innen auf eine zerbrochene Psyche, die unter der unermüdlichen Belagerung einer zusammenbrechenden Welt versucht, sich wieder zu einem Ganzen zusammenzufügen. Mit tränenüberströmtem Gesicht lag ein junger Künstler auf den abgenutzten, mit Teppich ausgelegten Stufen seines Elternhauses und machte sich an seinen sisyphushaften Kampf, sich selbst zu entkommen. Als seine Mutter sich zu ihm hinunterbeugte, um ihn von den Stufen zu ziehen, die er so oft zuvor erklommen hatte, begann eine neue Reise und eine archetypische neue Persönlichkeit wurde geboren. Devin Javon Badgett ist ,Henry J. Star" und der Autor dieser Geschichte.
Indonesian duo Kuntari make music that's so distinctive, they had to devise their own genre: primal-core. On Mutu Beton, multiinstrumentalist Tesla Manaf and percussionist Rio Abror dialog with both history and their tropical surroundings in Bandung, West Java's mountainous capital. Using the cornet and hulusi, a free reed instrument made from a bottle gourd and bamboo pipes, Manaf echoes the bellows of local elephants, orangutans and rhinos, grazing Abror's ancestral Indonesian rhythms with potent overdriven riffs and evocative microtonal chimes.
It's music that's profoundly atmospheric and simultaneously raw, recorded live to fully encapsulate the dynamic and deeply human interaction between the two seasoned players. There are elements of sludge metal, noise and post-hardcore, references to traditional folk music and jazz, and gestures towards sound art, 20th century minimalism and dark ambient, but what Kuntari do is completely idiosyncratic -- it's hardly surprising it needed a similarly unique categorization.
Manaf started Kuntari as a solo project, debuting in 2020 with Black Shirt Attracts More Feather and animating his nimble instrumental improvisations with bold electronic processes and booming synthetic drums. And by the time he recorded 2022's acclaimed Last Boy Picked, his approach had evolved significantly; prioritizing organic sounds, he played prepared cornet and piano, bringing in additional percussionists to help devise a ritualistic rhythm section. Abror was one of those performers, and ended up sticking around, playing on 2023's furious LARYNX/STRIDULA, the stylistic precursor for Mutu Beton. At this stage, the duo have racked up a litany of accolades and collaborated with a spectrum of like-minded artists, from noise deity Keiji Haino to fellow Indonesian free-thinker Rully Shabara, who's best known for his work with Senyawa and avant-garde supergroup Osmium. Mutu Beton plays like a lap of honor, showcasing their most kinetic and most feral recordings to date. Kuntari surpass their own high standards, folding history and geography in on itself and suggesting a trailblazing Indonesian cultural movement that's not restricted by highbrow Western conventions. It's not just automation and technology that drives progression, it's interaction and observation. And there's nothing more primal, or revolutionary, than that.
When unknown virtuoso guitarist Tosin Abasi released his debut solo album under the moniker ANIMALS AS LEADERS in 2009, few would have predicted the band's meteoric rise over the next two years. Although Abasi earned acclaim as the lead guitarist in the Washington, D.C.-based metalcore act Reflux, it was still a long-shot that an instrumental album of progressive metal with jazz, electronic and ambient flourishes would develop anything more than a cult following. With "Weightless," the group's sophomore effort, ANIMALS AS LEADERS is revered worldwide as a trailblazing pioneer of modern heavy music. The group's genre-defying compositions have earned extensive praise; Steve Vai called the band "the future of creative, heavy virtuoso guitar playing," and MetalSucks recently ranked Abasi #2 on their list of modern metal's top guitarists. Whereas the group's self-titled debut was a collaboration between Abasi and Periphery's Misha Mansoor, "Weightless" features the recording debut of ANIMALS AS LEADERS, the true band; Abasi (guitars), Javier Reyes (guitars) and Navene Koperweis (drums). After nearly two years of touring together, the trio wrote and recorded "Weightless" together in mid-2011, with Koperweis producing and Reyes mixing. The group debuted a new track, "Isolated Incidents," during their inaugural headlining tour that summer, which included sellout shows from coast-to-coast.
When unknown virtuoso guitarist Tosin Abasi released his debut solo album under the moniker ANIMALS AS LEADERS in 2009, few would have predicted the band's meteoric rise over the next two years. Although Abasi earned acclaim as the lead guitarist in the Washington, D.C.-based metalcore act Reflux, it was still a long-shot that an instrumental album of progressive metal with jazz, electronic and ambient flourishes would develop anything more than a cult following. With "Weightless," the group's sophomore effort, ANIMALS AS LEADERS is revered worldwide as a trailblazing pioneer of modern heavy music. The group's genre-defying compositions have earned extensive praise; Steve Vai called the band "the future of creative, heavy virtuoso guitar playing," and MetalSucks recently ranked Abasi #2 on their list of modern metal's top guitarists. Whereas the group's self-titled debut was a collaboration between Abasi and Periphery's Misha Mansoor, "Weightless" features the recording debut of ANIMALS AS LEADERS, the true band; Abasi (guitars), Javier Reyes (guitars) and Navene Koperweis (drums). After nearly two years of touring together, the trio wrote and recorded "Weightless" together in mid-2011, with Koperweis producing and Reyes mixing. The group debuted a new track, "Isolated Incidents," during their inaugural headlining tour that summer, which included sellout shows from coast-to-coast.
A deeply personal journey of an aspiring artist (Solene) navigating the harsh realities of Hollywood. An album that explores the emotional toll of being a hopeless romantic in a city full of predators and narcissists. A raw look at survival — and the trauma that follows. A narrative arc that takes the listener from LA to Las Vegas, only to find the same demons follow: addiction, vices, self-destruction, and the allure of illusion but ultimately setting on a journey of healing: picking oneself up, learning from pain, and choosing hope again and again. A love letter to Jazz, honoring Solene’s roots, with Hip Hop providing the fire and framework, produced by J. Rawls, to create something new: a genre-bending sound that’s soulful, futuristic, and fearless. Midnight Angel is not just an album — it’s a testimony of recovery, and of rebellion.
LDF (Lello Di Franco) makes a powerful return to Skylax, this time teaming up with Detroit's own Javonntte. Following his stellar release with Gari Romalis, LDF delivers a release that is pure gold for fans of the original Detroit sound. If you appreciate the styles of Moodymann, Theo Parrish, or Omar S, this record is bound to resonate deeply. The EP opens with "Disco One (All Night Long)," a groove-heavy track that embodies the essence of classic Detroit house. It pulses with soulful basslines and infectious rhythms, setting a hypnotic tone that's perfect for late-night sessions. "Saved" ventures into Chicago acid territory, a tribute to the raw, driving energy of classic acid house. With its punchy 303 basslines and tight, snappy percussion, it channels the best of Chicago's underground with a fresh, modern edge. "After Midnight" offers a smooth, after-hours vibe, balancing deep, jazzy chords with a pulsating rhythm that keeps the energy simmering. It's a track that brings warmth and intimacy, ideal for closing sets or introspective moments. "Martha" is a lush, emotionally rich track that embodies LDF's Italian roots while staying grounded in Detroit's heritage. With warm melodies and a rolling bassline, it delivers a balance between soulful warmth and a classic dancefloor feel. "Love Anthem" is a heartfelt groove, merging lush pads and laid-back percussion with a sense of nostalgic euphoria. It's a track that brings people together, a true love letter to house music. "People From Mars" pays homage to Omar S, with its stripped-down, gritty approach. The track has a rough, analog feel, capturing the raw energy and spirit of Detroit's underground. Finally, "The Dirty Digital Show" closes the EP on an intense note, with a driving rhythm and futuristic soundscapes. As an Italian DJ and producer from Naples, LDF brings his decades of experience—starting from his early inspirations in house and techno in 1993—into this record. Also, as co-owner of Frole Records and co-founder of Basic Frame Distribution, his knowledge of the scene is profound, and it's reflected in each meticulously crafted track. This release is a testament to the timelessness and diversity of house music.
Artwork done by legendary french cult designer H5 (Daft Punk, Air, Etienne de Crecy …)
Samosa Records comes at you with all the elements for Earth, Wind & Funk Vol. 2 – a succulent double slice of vinyl heaven!
DeGama unlocks his ReGroove toolkit for A1 – Leslie Lello’s house stomper ‘R U Doing’. The bass does all the talking before a glorious synth arrangement washes over your ears. The filtered, soaring, time stretched breakdown will have you in raptures. Pure late night dance floor territory, ‘R U Doing’ is simply relentless.
Frank Virgilio gets his ‘Juice’ flowing for track A2. A fusion of furious acid style synth bass, rolling beats, organ stabs and bongos, ‘Juice’ doesn’t waste any time at all in revealing all of its glory. There’s so much goodness going on in this track – no less than the glorious, uplifting tribal vocal that weaves its way in and out.
A3 gives a reprise of Leslie Lello’s ‘R U Doing’ with the original cut making a welcome appearance on the disc. All the ingredients are here – tight bongo led rhythm, gorgeous sequenced synth and driving bass. ‘R U Doing’ is one of those smile inducing tunes that lights up the floor, be that sunset or sunrise.
On the B-side of this Part.2 we return to the company of Dirtyelements & Drunkdrivers with ‘Hey You’ and another DeGama Re-Groove. Coming in at 124pm, ‘Hey You’ leads you up the piano dazzler path – a pounding, funk fuelled story set in the big city after midnight with no cabs home available.
On B2 Iberian groove master Javi Frias bakes all his funk in one big pie with ‘The Big Dance’. At a heady 128bpm, ‘The Big Dance’ wastes no time in setting its stall out. Javi’s recipe is electric, elaborate and fast-paced – oodles of bongos, laser beams and a disco bass to die for, ‘The Big Dance’ does exactly what it says on the tin.
In Earth, Wind & Funk Vol. 2 Samosa Records has produced a stunning double slab release, featuring a good mix of some of the label’s most prolific artists and some welcome newcomers.
Cool Up Records is excited to launch its latest 12" Maxi single with Spanish singer Yeyo Perez, featuring two tracks that each come in two versions. This Digital Reggae vinyl, titled "King inna di Ring/Burning in Flames," exemplifies authentic deejay style on the mic, infused with a rich homage to foundational Jamaican MCs.
On the A-side, "King inna di Ring" delivers a dynamic song powered by a powerful bassline and sharp lyrics. Yeyo Perez demonstrates his vocal talent and strong presence, with vocals that pay homage to the style of traditional reggae music clashes. The track’s music mainly comes from the old-school Casio MT-40 keyboard, providing that signature Digital Reggae rhythm produced by Cool Up.
The B-side features "Burning in Flames," where Coronel Brown joins with his smooth voice on the chorus, creating a powerful lovers rock song that blends well with Yeyo Perez's tougher style. Musicians Pedro Caballero on saxophone and Javibi Martin Boix on guitar contribute to a rich riddim with their impressive playing.
This release is well-crafted, with a dub and riddim version on the A-side and a sax and riddim version on the B-side, showing off Cool Up’s clever production skills. The cover art, designed by Mr. John Vanilla, keeps the style of previous singles and highlights his outstanding artwork.
This is the seventh 12-inch record from Cool Up Records, a must-have for Reggae fans, with more exciting records coming soon.
Serving as a lead single for Montréal-based artist NARCY’s new double LP “To Be An (Arab)”, COMMUNITY is a centerpiece of a banger.
Led by the legendary Dave Chappelle, NARCY, Niko Is, Talib Kweli, Donnell Rawlings, Mo Amer and Issa Ali reminisce on the 2020 pandemics' Summer Camp Cornfield Shows led by Dave. "COMMUNITY" is a high-level (no pun intended) posse cut reminiscent of ATCQ's "Scenario" - banging and uplifting energy and smothered in bars. Produced by 2oolman, Federico 'c sik' Lopez and NARCY. Limited Edition Run.
House Music label Ascension on Wax are proud to present AOW003 - Toronto Hustle & Sean Roman - The Unity EP. This duo have had a real buzz to them of late with strong releases on Wolf, Local Talk and Freerange this past year. Now with AoW, this is another EP which truly delivers for the House heads.
Side A is complimented by vocals from Detroit legend Jovonntte, and a mesmerising remix by 90's Deep House pioneer Abacus. Side B is for those deeper, early morning hours with a hard-hitting dub mix followed by a Deep House roller. This versatile release is for those with a love for that iconic 90's US East Coast sound.
Support from Franck Roger, Dj Deep, Dam Swindle, Philippa, Felipe Gordon amongst may others.
We are pleased to present again this wonderful and highly sought-after album, born from a promotional campaign by the U.S. Army to encourage recruitment. The recording perfectly captures the spirit of young America through songs written by Sly Stone, Curtis Mayfield, Funkadelic, and Burt Bacharach (via Isaac Hayes, of course). High-level soul and funk performed by brilliant anonymous musicians. Virtually impossible to find in its original edition, we are now reissuing it once again thanks to a collaboration with Now Again. Pressed on 180g vinyl. Often, the most prized records by collectors hold unexpected stories. When they also feature incredibly high musical quality and only a few original copies are available, they become the holy grails of collecting. This is the case with this album, recorded by American soldiers stationed in Germany in the early 70s. During the Vietnam War, the U.S. Army organized a band competition among its soldiers. The winners would record a promotional album that would be distributed for free to encourage enlistment during such a turbulent time. The result was a double LP shared between the bands SOAP and East of Underground. Although East of Underground's repertoire consists of covers of soul and funk hits, the quality is surprisingly high: raw guitars, crushing drums, brilliant vocal harmonies... The result perfectly captures the spirit of young America through songs written by Sly Stone, Curtis Mayfield, Funkadelic, and Burt Bacharach (via Isaac Hayes, of course). High-level soul and funk performed by anonymous musicians whose final fate has yet to be confirmed. When the label Now Again tried to reconstruct the story of East of Underground, they only managed to contact one of its members after digging through documents in the New York Library and collaborating with the U.S. Army. We are now pleased to present this wonderful and highly sought-after album once again, a surprising case where the covers rival the originals, creating a unique recording that justifies its immense appeal among collectors.
