quête:le disco

Five trombonists and a three-member rhythm section: that sort of unique musical synergy is what Nabou Claerhout brings to life with her own Trombone Ensemble. For years, such a project had been one of the dream projects on her bucket list, and thanks to Antwerp based cultural actor Rataplan, she already saw the creation become a reality in spring 2022. In the summer of that year, the eight-piece ensemble opened both Gent Jazz and Jazz Middelheim.

In January 2023, Nabou was artist in residence at the Brussels Jazz Festival in Flagey, where she presented the Trombone Ensemble as one of three carte blanche projects. In a sold-out Studio 4, American trombone legend Robin Eubanks joined the line-up as a special guest, having previously also contributed during the studio recordings of the young collective during. The band's self-titled debut album will be released on November 3rd 2023 via W.E.R.F. Records.

Nabou composed the entire repertoire for this Ensemble herself, and did so with a fully open vision. While writing the music, she explored the trombone's wide possibilities: "The aim is to both indulge you with warm, soft, carrying parts and then afterwards discover the trombone's spicy and cordial character." That rhythmic playfulness, which we hear more often in Nabou's compositions with her acclaimed quartet N?BOU, also seeps subtly into this band's sound.
Despite the 'unusual' line-up of five diverse jazz trombonists, each with a different background, you still get to hear a very homogeneous sound, which is full of playfulness and small details. "I tried to make room and focus for each individual. And of course there is also a starring role for the rhythm section with guitar, double bass and drums."

When Nabou started looking for the dream fellow jazz musicians for this project, she ended up with artists from her own country, Belgium, but also from far beyond the country's borders: The Netherlands, the UK and Germany. "In selecting the trombonists, I looked for specific timbres, but also for personality. It is important that there is a good balance in playing together, but also that each musician is strong enough on his or her own for the solo parts."
Wanting to push boundaries in her approach to both compositions and the trombone as an instrument, the real crème de la crème of the newest generation proved indispensable. "I selected a handful of European trombonists with whom I may or may not have already played, but who, above all, inspire me very deeply. They are all young people who have a lot to offer and already have significant projects to their name in their own region or country."

Brownswood Recordings releases the 7th edition of their Future Bubblers Compilation. An expansion of Gilles Peterson's network supported by Arts Council England, the ongoing talent discovery and artist development scheme focuses on developing unsigned talent and building audiences for new left-field music. With support from PRS Foundation as Talent Development Partners, the professional recording, manufacturing and physical release of Future Bubblers 7.0 is made possible. Unlike any other initiatives within music, the compilation acts as a springboard for the musician's careers, with the cooperative model providing direct revenue to the artists by a share of the profits, resulting in a sustainable income to work from. Previous Future Bubblers include artists such as Yazmin Lacey, KinKai, MC Snowy, Forest Law, Victoria Jane, NeOne The Wonderer and Kayla Painter, to name a few.

The 8-track compilation is a musically diverse collection of tracks, fusing genres across Alt-R&B, Dance, Electronic, Jazz, Rap and Trip-Hop. Opening the project, ROMY NOVA flaunts her hypnotic harmonies on a tender offering, 'The Way', whilst Sheffield-born Jackie Moonbather delivers a Funk performance on 'Separate Ways'. Up next, Ney Liqa's 'Blomster' captures a blend of Trip-Hop and Swedish-Pop, fusing her earliest musical influences before Birmingham's very own Landel's cloud-Rap excellence on '2 Many'. Maintaining the ethereal sonic, Petrelli Purple's 'Brisk' is reflective of his ability to curate a "miscellaneous north" sound, followed by MARYSIA OSU's 'Stryder' that highlights her self-coined "harps, beats, and dreams" ethos. Michael Diamond showcases his ability to float between jazz and electronic landscapes on 'Aether' before COEX rounds off the project nicely with 'Reflections'.

Round two of Leo Zero's edit archive series sees four more favourites given the LZ treatment.

On the A you'll find a killer housed-up version of an New Wave classic, alongside a tight n' tidy beefed up slo-mo disco remaster and chop of a west coast rock beauty. On the flip, a chunky remake of Brit soul bomb as well as a curveball dubby, wonked out version of an alt rock rhythm that's flipped this one into a deep 5am groover.

New Parisian label, Disques Messager, presents its new and second release. As its name suggests, the label has a simple leitmotiv: to place itself among the best messengers for rarities and sought-after gems of the international rare groove. A mission which began like fire last year with a 7inch reissue release including two Brazilian Disco bangers by Cristina Camargo. For this second efforts, the label doesn’t deviate from the artistic and quality path taken, however also making quite a U-turn, this time presenting 2 underrated kind of musical UFO, both from the French scene.
Not many info can be found about Yoanson & Karamie, two young artists from the French African diaspora, who randomly met with Nessim Saroussi and his label Ness Music in the late 80s. Nessim himself doesn’t remind much about the 2 guys, except that he quickly offered to produce them, which resulted in their only EP release, Kalimba (1988). Part of this EP, “African Leaders” is a stunning track melting Afro-Tropical percussions, Disco bass, Early-Electro beats and Leftfield vocals in a way that could remind of Doctor L or Arthur Russel productions.
On the contrary, Philippe de Lacroix-Herpin (aka Prof Jah Pinpin) has a long musical career started in the mid-70s and became a renowned saxophonist playing and recording for many famous French acts such as Jean-Jacques Goldman, Alain Chamfort, FFF, or even rap band NTM. In 1994, he moved definitely to the Reunion Island where he quickly launched the Prof Jah Pinpin 4tet, in his own words willing to play “free/funk/jazz/rock/tropical” music… Quite a vast and large musical tag, but which immediately make sense when listening to the surprising “The Final Bird” track. Only released as CD in 1996, this instrumental production has indeed a unique sound and flavor mixing all kinds of elements together (even samples of Weather Report).
Well as you can understand, words are not the best way to describe these 2 hidden treasures, so we strongly recommend the spinning to make your own view!

There‘s no much to say about this track you haven‘t heard before. Originally released in 1999 on Skooby Records and produced by Massimo Gabutti, legendary italo disco producer behind Phaeax (among others) and Maurizio Lobina, probably Blue is one of the most sampled tracks on crossover hits over the last years.

Limited re-issue on blue vinyl including Ice Pop Mix, Hannover Remix, TJm Bluemax 04 Remix and Paris Casino House Mix.

'Primavera Cabriolet,' the inaugural album by the talented Italian artist, Fibonnacci, presented by LOT Records.
Prepare to be swept away by a quartet of mesmerizing tracks that intricately weave together a tapestry of rich, minimal sounds and atmospheric layers, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Fibonnacci's music.

This captivating release is a fusion of classic rominimal house beats with industrial undertones, adorned with resounding noises, expansive pads, and uplifting chords. 'Primavera' paints a sonic canvas that encapsulates the vibrant spirit of summer, tailor-made for those euphoric after-party moments.

Anticipate enthralling rhythms, immersive soundscapes, and innovative musical crescendos across each unique composition.
Step into the journey with 'Panorama 1986,' the album's opening masterpiece. It's a powerhouse track that boasts a compelling bassline, enigmatic pads, and hints of hip-hop vocals, setting the stage for an electrifying sonic adventure.

Next, 'il Viaggiatore,' the second track, emerges as a dancefloor anthem. Its pulsating bassline, driving beats, and harmonious fusion of vocals with retro piano and pads form an irresistible groove, perfectly suited for peak-time revelry or after-party indulgence. 'Hôtel Casablanca' exudes a delightful, feel-good aura. A delightful blend of industrial elements, crisp rominimal beats, and a deep, melodious tune creates an irresistible fusion that is sure to set feet in motion and spread smiles. This track has already earned high praise and is a must-listen for all.

Rounding off the album with finesse, 'Discoteca Paradiso' delivers an iconic rominimal experience. With classic kicks, hats, and industrial nuances, combined with nostalgic pads and vocals, it invokes the essence of the end of the night or the dawn of a new adventure embracing diverse perspectives within the dance music realm.

Fibonnacci's 'Primavera Cabriolet' promises a spellbinding and deeply immersive experience. Let this musical expedition captivate your senses and transport you.

– Meow, Doc! Are you serious?!
– Hopefully, now we'll be able to program the cognitive processes of different creatures.
– The intranasal mutagen?
– With consciousness, too!

Spacelunch devoted all of his spare time to developing the virus. Once in the body, its molecules activate: they replace the configuration of neurotransmitters and start evolving independently. A small dosage of vapours reactivates brain navigation, whereas readings are taken from a nano-oscilloscope and sent to a tablet for further analysis. Augmented reality has long gone beyond virtuality, ladies and gentlemen!

The simulation of the collective mind has undergone a series of public tests initiated by enthusiasts from the Venus Biomolecular Institute. After a data leak from the lab's journal, the dangerous technology could have fallen into the hands of Aerospace Corporation, but luckily was intercepted by the Meta-Warp operational unit. Putting the development on pause, they shut down access to any information about the project. It remained unexplored, but the Professor's inquisitive mind wanted to understand the discovery that could change the future.

Toolroom provide the hotly anticipated return of renowned Glaswegian artist KC Lights, as he delivers yet another classic record in the making – 'Better Times', featuring the stunning voice of Merseyside-hailing Låpsley. A debut collaboration for the pair, as they drop a sweet cut of Disco infused House that will undoubtedly soundtrack the year. A label favourite in every sense of the word, KC Lights is most-known for his 2020 smash-hit 'Girl', a record you couldn't switch off from throughout that summer, followed up by his classy cut 'Cold Light' the following year with reputable vocalist and songwriter Leo Stannard, who also appeared on his summertime anthem 'Daydreamer'. If there's one thing KC Lights can do time and time again, it's writing infectiously catchy, timeless records that you'll hear almost anywhere you go, from underground clubs to radio stations and beyond. Featuring on the record is critically acclaimed vocalist and songwriter Låpsley, who rose to fame back in 2016 with her debut LP 'The Long Way Home' on the legendary XL Recordings. Of course, you can't forget DJ Koze's massive disco edit of 'Operator', which shot Låpsley through the stratosphere. With a string of huge hits and a voice to match, KC Lights and Låpsley come together on 'Better Times', offering three different mixes for this exclusive vinyl package.

Countless radio plays on Radio 1 from Danny Howard, Sarah Story, Pete Tong Other notable radio plays – Kiss FM, Toolroom Radio, Sirius XM, Data Transmission Radio, Radio 1 Dance Anthems, Radio 1 Party Anthems, Rinse FM, Select Radio, Tomorrowland Radio

DJ Support from Danny Howard, Annie Mac, Mistajam, Pete Tong, Charlie Hedges, Kraak & Smaak, Maxinne, Todd Terry, Alex Preston, Full Intention, GW Harrison, DJ Rae, Rudimental, Alaia & Gallo, Illyus & Barrientos, Johan S, David Penn, Sam Divine, Riva Starr, Claptone, Nice7, Dario D’Attis, Mousse T, S-Man, Huxley, KC Lights, Friend Within, Dombresky, Gorgon City, Chris

The Label famous for its outstanding organic and melodic music, is thrilled to announce the release of Jacob Groening's
debut album, „TIMEFADES,“. This remarkable album is set to release on his own imprint digitally and on vinyl preorder on November 24, 2023.

"TIMEFADES" is an introspective and immersive collection of eight tracks that weaves a narrative from start to finish. Each song contributes to a story that is both dancefloor-ready and equally at home in intimate listening environments. Jacob Groening's unique ability to craft music that resonates on multiple levels is showcased in this extraordinary album.

In a significant departure from his previous works, Groening has seamlessly integrated sounds from his childhood into
"TIMEFADES." The album features a captivating blend of 80s synthesizers, which evoke a sense of nostalgia, harmonizing effortlessly with his signature organic sounds. The result is a sonic tapestry that not only captures the essence of the past but also propels it into the future.

An exciting and personal addition to "TIMEFADES" is Jacob Groening's own voice. For the first time in his career as a
producer, he lends his vocals to the album, offering a deeper connection to the listener. This newfound layer of intimacy elevates the emotional resonance of the music, making "TIMEFADES" a profoundly personal and moving experience.

One of the standout features of the album is Groening's discovery of the electric guitar as a primary composition tool. The
electric guitar weaves its magic throughout "TIMEFADES," adding layers of melodic complexity that captivate the senses and set this album apart from the artist's previous work.

The 80s Italo disco /proto-house classic 'MBO Theme' by the mighty Klein & MBO, repressed! Comes with an heavy (and unheard) South African version on the flip. Huge Tip!
The MBO Theme' (1983) has been a dance floor favorite since decades, created by Mario Boncaldo and Tony Carrasco - the legendary Italian/US duo Klein & MBO. The track got support in NYC and Chicago by greats as Larry Levan, Frankie Knuckles and Ron Hardy.

The rare version on the flip is created by a South-African band called Warrior. Rush Hour explain how they came across the track: We bumped into this version on a South African record digging trip. It took us a few months to realize the scarcity of this version. Ian Osrin, a well respected engineer in South-Africa who was involved in many 80ties and 90ties Bubblegum, Kwaito and South African disco records, explained us about music distribution in South Africa during apartheid. Because the country was culturally banned at the time, a lot of releases weren't imported or exported. Even when a track was huge, like The Klein & MBO Theme'. So South African musicians would create their own versions which were sold locally.

We got in contact with Tony Carrasco from Klein & MBO. He also hadn't heard Warrior's version before, but he liked it as much as we do!'

Marino Scarabelli, the creator of unforgettable progressions in “Are You Loving” and “Love In A Summer Night”, so characteristic and unique that can still give us goosebumps, sat down in the studio again and composed another italo banger. Traditionally, he was joined by Stefano Brignoli, who wrote the lyrics and lent his voice, and that’s how we witnessed the creation of new bomb by Some Bizarre.

But this is not the end of the sensation, because Linda Jo Rizzo joined the band as a guest and you will hear her in female vocal parts, as befits real, indigenous Italo disco. The whole thing was produced by A.P. Mono in collaboration with Marino Scarabelli. For dessert, a very nice remix by Electro Potato.

It's been 40 years since Michal Turtle released his seminal, ground-breaking album "Music From The Living Room" into the world and promptly disappeared back into the aether.

An extremely obscure cult classic known only to deep diggers and aficionados of the finest order, it wasn't until Music From Memory reissued some of the tracks from it via retrospective compilations of Turtle's unreleased music almost 30 years later that his name become more widely known and a new generation were able to discover the artist's unique and pioneering style of experimental electronic music production, the majority of it very much ahead of its time, and to this day, still timeless.

Invisible Inc contacted Turtle in the summer of 2023 about releasing something else by him and it was during this exchange of emails that ideas were expressed about releasing not simply a straightforward reissue of "Music From The Living Room" to mark its 40th anniversary (the album has never been reissued in full) but rather a re-imagined/re-constructed take on the album bringing contemporary techniques, styles and newly recorded vocal and instrument parts into the mix and breathing new life into these wonderful compositions.

Collaborators old and new were brought into the studio and the songs re-created from the ground up. Familiar songs like "Are You Psychic?" and "Village Voice" get overhauled and echo remnants of their original counterparts but simultaneously sound like completely new tracks. The always mesmerising "Phantoms of Dreamland" is represented through a live recording at Café Oto featuring original album vocalist Lucianne Lasalle and regular collaborator HOVE on electronics. The remaining tracks, however, will be completely new to the ears of most people, never having been reissued or heard in these new forms ever before.

Regardless, whether in some way familiar or not, these hypnotic and repetitive pieces of beautiful sound art, all very different in style from one another, have an entirely new identity that even diehard devotees of the originals will fall in love with.

“Holy shit. This record is amazing. 'Are You Psychic?' is really something” dj_2button Dummy Hand / Weirdos Inc.

“What a record!” Cosmo Vitelli I'm A Cliché

“Amazing release. Probably your best release yet! Does everything an amazing record should and more...” Alexis Le-Tan Oddity Radio / Full Circle / Offen Music

The Key Of The Future” takes you on a thrilling sonic journey that seamlessly blends electro, breaks, and acid elements with influences of synthwave and wave music. With tracks ranging from the pulsating intensity of “Acid Train” to the mysterious darkness of “Hasta La Mañana”, the album immerses you in a spacey and energetic atmosphere that leaves you craving more. Each song offers a unique experience, from the euphoria of “Fiesta Pesada” to the introspection of “We Are Lovers”, all tied together by a sense of discovery and evolution.

This musical masterpiece opens the door to a new chapter and reflects the artist’s expertly crafted mix of influences. Get lost in the sound and let “Key To The Future” be your guide.

After a short break Samosa Records explodes back on the scene with ‘Earth Wind & Funk’, a deadly four-tracker EP that is sure to get the juices flowing and body moving.

A1 sees New Zealander producer ‘Strange’ make a most welcome return, spinning the funk loom with the ‘Hard Working’ (De Gama Re-Drums). A truly addictive and distinctive bassline sets the pace, tone and feel for this gorgeously constructed track. It has it all; sumptuous vocal, high-end brass and an acid squelch to die for. Dig it, you will.

A2 lands with Frank Virgilio’s ‘Love Is Positivity’ – a melting pot of twisted disco, feel-good scatty rhythm and lifting vocals. The melody is literally dripping with positivity, but also has an almost transcendental vibe secretly going on. The last drops of summer are right here. Enjoy them.

On the B-side, Mosaik Kollektive raise the temperature with the De Gama Re-Drums applied ‘Keep’. A tough, perfectly cooked groove that gets right in your face and makes no apologies for screaming at you. The bass on this unstoppable monster is all-consuming. Rhythm guitar licks blend with soaring strings and that’s the full basket. Sublime meaty goodness.

Closing matters for this incredible EP at B2 is the effervescent Monsieur Van Pratt and Funk De Ibiza. MVP stretches his funky legs to the full here, laying down a solid beat, arpeggio and a bass so tough you could train it to box. Expertly blended with J-pop-esque vocal and shrill church organ. Drop this at midnight and watch the carnage unfold and hands in the air.

Earth, Wind and Funk is the exposure to the elements you absolutely want. A more perfect slice of wax you couldn’t find and one that’s sure to find its way into the record boxes of those who know.