Hip-Hop Vinyl New Releases - News

Massive hardtek. Dancefloor killer on the A side with a raggatek Core for the start and then a wicked Hardfloor... The Flip brings a long hardtek tribe:)

Since 2011, Edinburgh/Prague based duo Riddim Tuffa — AKA Adham & Frontline Selecta — have released crate loads of singles and releases that have spanned colabs with Little Kirk, Lt. Stitchie, and Solo Banton to hook-ups with labels such as Tru Thoughts, Reggae Roast, and Superfly Studio.
Their unique digital sound is a blazing arsenal that encompasses the roots of dub and dancehall to cutting-edge production techniques and fresh future vibes.
Their first full length album, Deh Yah, features collaborations from global talent including Jamaican legends Earl 16 and Robert Lee; reigning UK champs King general, Danman, and Murrayman; as well as a slew of up-and-coming MCs such as El Fata, Taiwan Mc, Parly B, Junior Dread, and Lasai.

Expansion's most successful and longest running compilation series returns with a 2018 edition. The concept remains the same, fifteen must-have modern soul room gems taken from the year's biggest dance floor spins on the soul scene. While tracks here have topped UK soul charts, many have not been available in all formats. Once again, attention is paid to the 'flow' of the 15 gems chosen here from shuffling beats to boogie to more soulful house as played at modern soul events. Participants this year include Cornell CC Carter with a track from one of the year's biggest albums, huge tracks by UK soul artists Kenny Thomas, Jaki Graham (exclusive extended mix), John Reid (exclusive extended mix); a return to form for the massive Change; two artists Brian Courtney Wilson and Lexi from Motown's new gospel label; superb dancers from new artists The APX, Imaa, with a vintage flavor from Ernest Ernie & The Sincerities. There's excellence from German DJ Mousse T with Peven Everett; soulful garage anthems from DJ Spen and Prefix One, an 80s revival from The Richie Family, and fantastic to have Cheryl Pepsii Riley back with an James Day on an extended mix exclusive to this album.

Four talented chefs join forces and presents the first volume of Amouse-Bouche.

Take notice, this is not a one-man show, together all four erase the distinction between sweet and savoury.

Recorded in early 1971, Curtis/Live! finds Curtis Mayfield in top form at the intimate Greenwich Village club The Bitter End. With veterans from Chicago's soul and jazz scene, Mayfield runs through a superb setlist of Impressions classics ('Gypsy Woman,' 'People Get Ready'), gems from his first solo LP ('We The People Who Are Darker Than Blue,' 'The Makings of You') and fierce originals that would make their recording debut here ('I Plan To Stay A Believer,' 'Stare And Stare,' and 'Stone Junkie').

As author Lloyd Sachs writes in the liner notes for this vinyl reissue, 'All of the songs are lovingly reworked - in some cases stretched out and in others, brightened with humor. The band redefines groove via the West African polyrhythms of conga and bongo great Henry Gibson and the intertwined guitars of Mayfield - whose dulcet, vocallike tone was a revolution in and of itself - and Craig McMullen. The group creates excitement through tension and release, through building up and letting go.'

Curtis/Live! was originally issued on Mayfield's own Curtom label just before his second studio album, 1971's Roots, and his influential Super Fly soundtrack. While the singer would continue to establish himself as one of the key voices of his generation, the powerful anthems and in-the-pocket perfection on this double-LP live set demonstrate how brilliant Curtis truly was - a master class in restraint and fearless expression.

Nach Philanthropes Opener "waking Dreams" Auf Beat Jazz International Freuen Wir Uns, Die Zweite Veröffentlichung Ankündigen Zu Können, Die Sich Auf Beats, Jazz Und Vinyl Konzentriert. Der Leipziger Iampaul Vom Daily Concept Camp Liefert 14 Mellow Tracks Mit Jazzy Bits Und Boombap Pieces. Limitiert Auf 300 Stk.

The KPM label is one of the best known 'Music Libraries', now Tummy Touch has re-mastered and re-issued
some of the classic KPM albums, following the heavy 'Afro-Rock' LP comes this album of swirling hammonds,
heavy breaks and funky jazz. You may even recognise a TV theme tune or two amongst the chintz and hip

Hopeton Overton Brown, besser bekannt als SCIENTIST, wurde in den 1980er Jahren als Dub Music Mixer bekannt. Er hat einige Male mit dem jamaikanischen Mixer und Produzenten Prince
Jammy zusammengearbeitet, die wohl bekannteste gemeinsame Aufnahme stellt dabei das Album "Scientist & Prince Jammy Strike Back!" dar.
SCIENTIST wurde von Science-Fiction-Filmen inspiriert und ein Teil des Albums versprüht die Atmosphäre des Unbekannten. In erster Linie sind es aber die Roots Radics, die hier mit ihren
Rhythmen als Herzstück des Werkes das jamaikanische Feeling kreieren. Das Album ist schwungvoll und schwebend, mit Echos und Dubs, es ist ein Artefakt für den Stil des frühen Reggae der frühen 80er Jahre.

Reissue of some of the greatest vocal house tunes ever. Very big in early '90s.

Recently discovered material from the KPM Music Library released for the first time! New York Trouble - Punchy driving soul for both serious and light hearted contemporary drama . Electric Progression - Strikingly progressive themes featuring synthesizers, electric piano and rhythm section. All tracks composed by: Flowers, Morgan, Lee. Limited Edition 180 gram vinyl

A1. Barnyard Bam Bam - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A2. Heavy Stakeout -Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A3. Where'd He Go - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A4. Street Freedom - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A5. Light Stakeout - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A6. Nightly Visits - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A7. Hustle Don't Hate - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A8. Discotech Stepper - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A9. Cool, Not Cold - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A10. High Five Shake Down - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
A11. There's Your Man - Various Artists (New York Trouble)
B1. Honk Kong Hang - Various Artists (Electric Progression)
B2. Non Suqensor - Various Artists (Electric Progression)
B3. Zen Furious - Various Artists (Electric Progression)
B4. Better Than Boogie - Various Artists (Electric Progression)
B5. Sonic Swarm - Various Artists (Electric Progression)
B6. Bionic Bossa - Various Artists (Electric Progression)
B7. Manhatton Moon Rise - Various Artists (Electric Progression)
B8. Electric Procession - Various Artists (Electric Progression)

Ein sanftes, geschmeidiges und elegantes Album, das sich schwer greifbar der
Erdhaftung verweigert.
Gérald Toto wurde 1967 in Frankreich geboren. Seine Eltern stammen aus Martinique und besaßen eine
große Vinylsammlung mit amerikanischem Soul, afrokaribischer Tanzmusik, kongolesischem Soukous und
Makossa aus Kamerun. In den 1990ern wuchs Toto zu einem kühnen Musikabenteurer heran, der
atmosphärisch-experimentelle Alben herausbrachte und mit so unterschiedlichen Künstlern wie dem
algerischen Raï-Sänger Faudel, Nouvelle Vague und dem Elektro-Futuristen Smadj kooperierte. "Sway"
nimmt uns sanft, geschmeidig und melodisch mit auf eine imaginäre Reise in eine Welt des Innehaltens und
der Beobachtung, eine Welt, in der der frenetische Krawall der Moderne zu einem sanften Säuseln wird.
Dabei scheinen Totos Songs aus einer nie versiegenden Quelle frischer Luft und Sonnenscheins zu
schöpfen, die den Hörer in eine zeitlose Träumerei versetzen. Gute Musik lässt sich nur schwer bis gar nicht
kategorisieren, und so präsentiert sich das Album als Mischung aus akustischem Folk, Jazz, Soul, Pop und
Blues mit kosmopolitischen Ecken und Kanten aus Creole- und karibischen Anklängen. Dem Rhythmus des
Lebens leiht der Meister des Understatements seine lyrische Stimme. Sie flüstert und vibriert mit einer
eleganten Eloquenz auf Englisch sowie in frei erfundenen Sprachen.

A creative outlet for slavery past and present (from the mutiny of slave ships to the hacking of algorithms and microchips); how music from the fields evolved to create Hip-Hop and how Hip-Hop is as relevant a medium

for conversations regarding slavery as the music that makes it up ever was. The seriousness of life is often expressed through the use of music and humour- here ((((FACTS))))) draws together poets, musicians and artists in a

collab that explores modern day slavery and provides a path for others to join in and explore their own place in modern day society. This in a medium rich with history and life and open, supportive expression.

Inspired by the historical Madison Washington (who led the first and only successful slave rebellion in the U.S.), Malik Ameer raps on behalf of all the contemporary, and possibly future, runaway slaves. Hence, ((((FACTS))))

attempts to articulate the contemporary abolitionists modus operandi.

Maxie Livingston Smith became Max Romeo through his concerted courtship of a local beauty. After a difficult childhood that saw him run away from home following the breakdown of his parents' relationship, Max became lead singer of The Emotions harmony group, with Lloyd Shakespeare, brother of future bass wizard Robbie, during the rock steady era. Following the demise of the group, in 1968, at the request of Bunny Lee, Max wrote the suggestive 'Wet Dream', inspired by the rude ditties of the lewd American r&b singer, Blowfly, but then found himself forced to sing it in the studio after rejections from better-established peers such as Slim Smith, Derrick Morgan, Roy Shirley and John Holt. Despite a BBC ban, the song topped the British charts, spawning the debut album, A Dream. Tracks like 'Wood Under Cellar,' 'Wine Her Goosie' and 'The Horn' continued the rude theme, though songs such as 'Far Far Away' and 'Love' were more traditional ballads, the latter made more outstanding through vibrant Rastafari-influenced percussion; 'Club Raid' speaks of Max's survival of a punitive police bust.

Max Graef and Julius Conrad are Ratgrave. Electronic P-Fusion from earth. Recorded over a period of 3 years in different locations.
Stop Wars and investors.'

All tracks written, produced, mixed and performed by Julius Conrad and Max Graef

Additional EFX by Ludwig L.
Made on earth, recorded over a period of 3 years in different locations.
Stop wars and investors.

After the release of their playful debut album "Worldstyle" the Budapest duo are now returning with their 2nd album "Brotherhood" and this time their message is more serious. The music if often summons blues elements but also influenced by dub, funk and a little hip-hop while the lyrics are mainly about the social and personal problems of our time interpreted by talented guest vocalists from all over the world. The guest performance of KRSA puts the point on the letter 'i' in 'Brotherhood' and in the other reggae-inspired song 'Pass It On'. Being one of the dominant figures of the Hungarian ska movement he is an
important guest on the album. As the main driving force behind the 90's very popular and recently revived British band Freak Power Ashely Slater needs no introduction. He has worked with Dub Pistols, Dublex Inc., or Fort Knox Five, and his
talents and professional performances are turbocharges three
completely different songs. 'Revolution!' has previously released in 2016 as a 7' single and features dazzling electro blues and Ashley's food for thought lyrics. In 'Life Is Love' he proves that his talent has no barriers whether he sings lonely doo-woptempo or the dub-ska of 'People Kill People' which is a unique cover of Éric Serra's seminal 80's cult classic 'Guns & People'.
Denise M'Baye known as the MC/singer of Mo'Horizons is featured in two downtempo tracks. 'Wings' is a laidback song about love while and 'All My Life Is In This Bag' smuggles back a little bit of the mood of 'Worldstyle'.Fedora is the best-known female MC/singer of the Hungarian bass music life. She made her own solo album in 2017. With 'Come Away With Me'
she proves that she's not only an bass music MC, but a great singer with deep emotions. Another guest from Hungary is the lead singer of the downtempo-funk band Mystical Plants. Bryant Goodman contributes to the album in two different tracks with his gravelly voice. 'Bad Man's Ballad is bittersweet song about the average politician of our age while 'Keep Going On' on
the other hand is full of playfulness and delivers a short but positive message.
At last but not least we have the Ghanaian M3NSA on the board from Fokn Bois and RedRed. His lyrics in 'It Works' is very motivating for everyone and spreads the message of not giving up even if the world is seemingly against you.
Savages Y Suefo's new album 'Brotherhood' is a lot different from their previous one in many ways but it remained just as eclectic as its predecessor 'Worldstyle' and still proves Savages Y Suefo's wide interest and openness in music that is needed today... and not just in music.

One of the greatest reggae vocal harmony trios of all time, The Mighty Diamonds formed in 1969 in Trench Town, the infamous west Kingston ghetto that gave rise to Bob Marley and the Wailers and countless other vocal groups. They began recording for Rupie Edwards in the early 1970s and cut soul covers for Stranger Cole and lesser-known producer, Roy Ross, before singing noteworthy material for Lee 'Scratch' Perry, such as 'Talk About It,' as well as backing hit singles such as Susan Cadogan's 'Hurt So Good.' Subsequent material for Bunny Lee was also popular, but the real breakthrough came when the deejay and producer Jah Lloyd introduced the group to the Hookim Brothers of Channel One, leading to a series of incredible hits and internationally acclaimed albums issued overseas by Virgin. Then, in the 1980s, after Virgin turned away from reggae, The Diamonds had another career boost through recordings for perceptive producer Gussie Clarke, who issued popular albums such as Changes and The Root Is There. The album Backstage was another fine set for Gussie, recorded at Dynamic Sounds studio in Kingston and issued in extended-play style, with each of the album's six conscious late-roots tracks mixed to include dubs.

90's Electro-Punk project based in Chicago after Janis Sils emigrated from Riga, Latvia. Self built instruments to create an trash and solid industrial sound. Influenced by label Wax Trax! & bands like Laidbach, Nine Inch Nails, Front 242 ... The world of U.S.O.C.A. reflects a strong talk to military minds. Something straight with no breathe. A uniting calling for masses.

Another classic selection from the Mad Professor. A Various Artists compilation featuring the Queens Of ARIWA. Smooth Lovers Rock meets Reggae head on as the ladies on ARIWA deliver

stunning vocal performances. Features Carroll Thompson, Aisha, Jah 9 and Jayzik. Mad Professor and ARIWA Records have been producing music and releasing

CDs and Vinyl for nearly 30 years with acatalogue of a good few hundred titles. Stunning LP artwork

Reggae star, Alborosie's classic album Soul Pirate has been remastered and released as a Deluxe Digipack Edition with bonus tracks, and foldout poster. The Soul Pirate album was the result of Alborosie's 6 years at

Geejam studios in Jamaica and in partnership with local artists. The bonus tracks included are Call Up Jah, Slambam, Streets and Jamaica. Soul Pirate features Alborosie's most well-known tracks, Kingston Town, Herbalist,

Still Blazin' and Rastafari Anthem.

Forward thinking dub is the ethos of this highly collaborative future stepper from Scrub A Dub Records. US production duo Alter Echo & E3 have linked up with Bristol's Ishan Sound to create an awe- inspiring warrior stance anthem. Ah Mi Guide features a hypnotic sample from Rider Shafique, over an unrelenting beat crafted by E3 and Ishan then mixed in dub by Alter Echo. The flipside remix comes via ascendant dubstep producer Egoless, who transforms the stark original into a slow burning fire, garnished with a flourishing flute refrain. Either side is guaranteed to shake up and mesmerise a dance!

'Exotic Other' is the debut album from London-based four-piece Animanz and Argentinian and Congolese vocalist Juanita Euka. Featuring nine infectious funk-infused tracks, the album is a dynamic

journey through rocking exotica. Available on 1xLP inc. Pantone coloured sleeve.

Flavours from rhumba, cumbia and merengue to the punk attitude and electro energy of the club-funk sound of title track 'Exotic Other' represent the fastpaced and diverse nature of their home of London.

Started as a collaborative project between childhood friends Max Rodriguez (guitar), Joshua Brandler (bass), Marc Goymour (keys) and Andrea Gucel (drums), Animanz was formed in 2013 when they threw themselves out

into London's multi-layered music scene. Since then the band have grown to encompass a genre smashing collective which welcomes guest performers from all over the world, and the musicians they've met along this varied path

have provided the band with a vehicle to help them develop their multitextured approach to rhythm. Animanz explain: 'We write party tunes, so the groove and energy are the

most important things. Everything else just fits around that.' The album is also very conscientious, and finds itself rooted deeply within our times, like London it is music to both get lost in and inspired by what the band call 'a melting pot;

an all-inclusive party for everyone'. Inspired by the relationship between afrobeat and protest which Fela Kuti epitomised, Animanz use emblems of modern technology to theorise a

systemised digital world. Tracks like 'TV' and 'Disconnect' deal with television screens and Wi-Fi as their subject matter, while 'Speak Out' is a ballad to those who complain about politics but do nothing to implement change.

The legendary disco producer (and drummer) Cerrone has announced the release of his new Afro EP II, that will be coming out July 29th via Because Music.
Based in France, Cerrone has sold over 30 million albums worldwide throughout his career, and won a GRAMMY Award for his first hit 'Love in C Minor' (he also has four other GRAMMY nominations).
It was not a surprise to see him come back to his first loves in 2016 with his first 'Afro' EP.
Today, Cerrone announces the release of the second chapter of his Afro series, the second return to the roots for the French disco maestro. 'African Voodoo' and 'Papa Oye' are his two new songs paying a passionate homage to Africa and its syncopated, spontaneous and genuine rhythms.

Classic Lee Perry meets the Mad Professor recorded at ARIWA sounds. Includes the tracks 'Kung Fu Fighting' REGGAE
and 'Mystic Warrior' and backing vocals by The Upsetters

Classic Lee Scratch Perry album gets the Mad Professor treatment. Dubtastic!

Classic Reggae album, first released 1976 now available on 180 gram vinyl. Produced & Arranged by A. Ranglin.

Original LP Illustration by Tyrone Whyte

Advertising in, Black Echoes, Record Collector Magazine and Riddim

Super deep African / New Age / Minimalistic / Ambient crossover from Cabo Verde - Not the typical record, a beautiful listening experience - Check !!
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Originally conceived as a book of 6 poems that developed into a record released independently in 1986, Universo Da Ilha sits at the cross-section of many different genres. Connecting contemporary New Age and ambient minimalist movements with traditional West African and Cape Verdean elements from the past (griot voices, djembe rhythms, melancholic morna), Vasco constructed his own 'universe' where, in spite of the isolation of the island at the time, he transcended barriers and created a global record that was ahead of its time

Vasco used his own synths and drum machines, and with the help of a small group of friends (Tey Gonçalves on percussion, Neney's amazing griot voice, Luis Morais on sax and flute), he recorded this Not-Balearic-but-Atlantic Ambient odyssey on a 16-channel Peavey mixer directly to an Akai tape recorder without overdubs.

He's the best-known French-speaking reggae singer, but that doesn't stop him also expressing himself in the language of his roots, Dioula, as well as the language of Bob Marley, English.
A range of spices that colour an art, and especially a message, which is good, as its purpose is to speak to as many people as possible.

The first title of this new album by Alpha Blondy confirms the perceptible engagement in his repertoire: "Political Brouhaha" denounces politics and electoral promises. "They prevent you and me from thinking. They fill us with promises that they will never keep, as if they just want to make a career for themselves. I think politicians are in the wrong role. The people expect miracles from them, but these promises bind only those who believe in them. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a solution!"

Another song called "Nos hôpitaux" (Our hospitals) describes a catastrophic situation, that of the medical equipment of a whole continent. "It's a nightmare, and at the same time, a wake-up call. African politicians who care for the welfare and happiness of their people need to consider their health. Our hospitals are just as much a place to die as slaughterhouses. There's a lot of work to be done, and this is certainly one of the essential points that will help get Africa on track. There's money available; if they wanted to, they could fix it."

It's not the first time that Alpha Blondy has spoken out. In the early 1980s, the country was still governed by a single party, that of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, President from 1960 to 1993. There was no multiparty system, and his music was like a rallying point for the opposition. His song "Brigadier Sabari", which denounces police violence, has even become a hymn.

And although he moderated his epithets because of the trouble they caused, it was very evident that his music had turned anti-establishment. "Expressing yourself always serves a purpose. I'm not a politician, but I have the right to speak."

But beyond all this noise and all these promises, there's a universal language, that of faith, addressed here in a song called "Les Païens" (The Pagans). "My mother was Muslim, my father Christian, but there is only one God. It's written in the Qur'an: Let no one divide you. It's aimed at Jews, Christians and Muslims alike. And today, what do we see Division. I wanted to come back to this one God. We must conform to the precepts of this God who unites us. He is a God of love, not a God of division. The only real truth today is God's love."

Those who are already familiar with the artist's discography won't be surprised by this confirmation of his faith: Jah Glory (Glory to God) claimed the title of his first record, while Jerusalem the holy city was the name of his fourth. Spirituality has always been very much present in him.

The two occasions that liven up the song list won't surprise those who follow him, such an exercise having almost become instinctive. This time, we have "Whole Lotta Love" by Led Zeppelin and "I came to tell you I'm leaving" by Serge Gainsbourg. "Led Zep is indeed a group we listen to on the tour bus, so we thought: why not Even though we grew up with Otis Redding and Johnny Hallyday, we love English rock. Serge Gainsbourg, because I've always loved and really appreciated him. I was lucky enough to meet him at Printemps de Bourges in 1987, and I remember our heated debates about reggae..."

As commander of African groove, as he's often portrayed, Alpha Blondy is only about love and peace. At 65 years old and wearing it well, he's not ready to retire yet. "I would have liked to sing romantic songs, but my ghetto origins wouldn't let me. Instead, giving and receiving love is what drives me, in my music as well as in my life. And as long as God gives me strength, I'll be there." Let's hope it never ends.

One of the most eagerly anticipated albums of the year, Alpha Steppa Meets Nai-Jah 'The Great Elephant'. TGE is the product of a year-long collaboration between renowned UK Dub Reggae producer Alpha Steppa and French-Nigerian singer / songwriter Nai-Jah. TGE tells the story of Nai-Jah's reality growing up in Nigeria, the album paints a picture of corruption, greed, and suffering, a narrative each and everyone accross the globe can relate to. Nai-Jah points to strength through unity and provides great inspiration and hope through his thoughtful lyrics and sincere delivery. Steppas Records is overjoyed to present all 10 original vocal tracks plus the full dub album as one. A truly unique and powerful protest album sure to provoke, inspire and uplift.

'One of the most prolific and inventive dub producers around' Wire

'A serious player in the soundsystem world' Mixmag

An acidic downtempo housy/technoid journey into your imaginary landscape by Borthers Of Heliopolis (Cyclic Backwash / Ersatz Olfolks Alias). Title and Artwork inspired by early SF magazine Amazing Stories . The Record will come with a plain printed sleeve .

Record Kicks Pres. "travelers, Exlplorers" The Brand New Single By Legendary Italian Cinematic Funk Combo Calibro 35, Out 9th Of November On A Ltd Edition Vinyl 45.

"travelers, Explorers" Is A New Epic Journey Into Calibro 35's World, A Sung Revisitation Of The Morricone-inspired Tune "travelers" That Closes Calibro 35's Latest Lp "decade". In "travelers, Explores", The Italian Combo Gets Lost In Deep Space With Thewhispered Voice Of Elisa Zoot, Who Guides The Band Into This Journeymade Ofstrings, Brass, Synth Textures And Vibraphone. On The Flip Side, Two Heavy-brass Dirty-groover Versions Of "stingray", Barry Gray's Opening Theme Of The Iconichomonymatv Series: Instrumental Version And With The Italian Singer Serena Altavilla. This 45 Vinyl Is Limited To 500 Copies Worldwide Andall Calibro 35's Previous 45s Went Sold Out In A Few Days, Be Fast!

Calibro 35 Enjoys A Worldwide Reputation As One Of The Coolest Independent Band Around. They Have Been Sampled By Dr. Dre On His Compton Album, Jay-z Love Child & Damon Albarn, They Shared Stages With The Likes Of Roy Ayers, Sun Ra Arkestra, Sharon Jones, Thundercat, Headhunters And As Unique Musicians They've Collaborated With, Amongst Others Pj Harvey, Mike Patton, John Parish And Stewart Copeland And Nic Cester (the Jet). Described By Rolling Stone Magazine's As The Most Fascinating, Retro-maniac And Genuine Thing, That Happened To Italy In The Last Years, Calibro 35 Now Count On A Number Of Aficionados Worldwide Which Includes Vip's Fans Such As Dj Food (ninja Tune), Mr Scruff And Huey Morgan (fun Lovin' Criminals) Among Others.

California Flight Project is a well known name for many record collectors because of the PPU 7" release of California Flight, and the self released CD-R's from the front man, Jerry "J". Finally Preservation records is very proud to present to you the first official release on vinyl of their early tracks 79-81. Fantastic modern soul from Berkley California. Licenced, remastered, with new cover and full credits makes this a collectors item. Only 500 pressed.

First Word Records are very proud to present an EP by Manchester's finest Hip Hop and Soul exports, Children of Zeus. This is 'The Story So Far...'

Konny Kon & Tyler Daley met back in 2005, after both performing a show near Paris in their respective crews, Broke'N'£nglish and Body Roq. The duo met up back home in Manchester, spurred on initially by a mutual admiration of each others music, and produced their first track together, aptly entitled 'Coming Home To You'.

A few years later, Tyler approached Konny about producing a full EP together. These sessions included the creation of a track called 'Still Standing', which ultimately saw the light of day last Summer on First Word. Still a highlight in their live sets, the Lenzman rub won "Best Remix" at the 2016 Drum & Bass Awards. The original has become somewhat of a British Soul anthem since its release, with people that missed it first time round still clamouring for it on wax. So we've included it on this EP.

As they've grown within the family of Manchester's music scene, they've provided a tonic to the city's bass-orientated club scene, breathing Soul back into the city, whilst maintaining their heritage of Hip Hop swagger. As an MC, Konny takes no prisoners, whilst Tyler (a prolific MC in his own right) has gained a rep as one of the UK's strongest Soul voices. Both artists have been blessed with the talent of beat-making. A combined craftsmanship upon the boards and in the booth.

From building a grassroots following of fans, they've since travelled the globe, sharing stages with giants and catching the ear of peers far and wide, from Pete Rock to Zed Bias. As well as hosting their own monthly radio show on NTS, they've collaborated with numerous Hip Hop acts, both sides of the Atlantic, as well as Soul royalty in the form of Caron Wheeler and Drum'n'Bass legends, such as Goldie (Tyler featuring heavily across his latest album).

Children of Zeus have finally begun the process of crafting together their debut album. This EP is a compilation of the creations the duo have produced themselves over the past decade, put together to appease their loyal followers thus far, and as an introduction to those yet to discover their talents. A snapshot of what has been, and a mere taster of what's to come. It features brand new tracks such as 'Smoke With Me' and (vinyl-only cut) 'Tonight', the anthemic 'Crown' (featured on First Word's 'Two Syllables' compilation previously) and fan favourites such as 'No Sunshine Tomorrow' and 'Push On'. A collection of raw, gritty, Hip Hop Soul music.

The debut album will drop in 2018.
This collection signals the end of the first chapter. A prologue even.
Get on board now. The time is right. This is the story so far...

- special Thanks To My Family, Friends, And All Those Who've Inspired Me To Keep Making Music. These Compositions Are A Reflection Of My Musical Journey, Reminding Me There's Always More Room To Grow. - Like (pac Div) gabriel Brings The Funk And The Soul, Fresh Drum Patterns With The Right Swing And Most Importantly, The Diversity Of Every Single Track Makes This Record Never Boring.' - Lefto (worldwidefm, Brussels) gabriel Is Fusion Cuisine At Its Finest. Like Combines Ingredients That Shouldn't Work Together, But Do, Because He's A Ill Chef Like That.' - Ivan Ave (mutual Intentions, Jakarta Records)

ONIPA means 'human' in Akan, the ancient language of the Ashanti people of Ghana. It's a message of connection
through collaboration: from Ghana to London, our ancestors to our children, Onipa brings energy, groove, electronics, afrofuturism, dance and fire!

Born out of deep collaboration between long time friends KOG (Kweku of Ghana of KOG and the Zongo Brigade) and Tom Excell (MD, guitarist and writer of acclaimed jazz/ soul afrobeat pioneers Nubiyan Twist), the 4 piece live show features KOG on vocals, balafon and percussion, Tom Excell on guitar, percussion and electronics, Dwayne Kilvington (Wonky Logic) on synths and MPC and Finn Booth (Nubiyan Twist) on drums.

It's a fresh, raw, fiercely energetic new sound, fusing electronics and deep afro grooves. Think Konono no.1 meets Shangaan Electro, Songhoy Blues and Débruit....

1996 is an instrumental album by Germany's beatmaker 'Shuko' who produced for the likes of Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Snoop, Pusha-T, Jedi Mind Tricks, Talib Kweli, B-Real and many more... When he started to listen to Hip Hop in 1996 he never thought about working or writing with one of his icons. 22 Years later he looks back on a strong catalog of beats he produced for his childhood heroes from Cypress Hill, Grand Puba, Cl Smooth, Sadat X, O.C., Ras Kass, Keith Murray and many more just to name a few. For this album Shuko only worked with the original equipment that was used 1996 in Hip Hop's golden era to capture the same vibe and sound. SP1200 & Akai MPC60 are the foundation of all his Beats besides one of his favourite samples of this age. 1996 is a homage of one of the best years in hip hop with guaranteed flashbacks, knocking drums, jazzy vibes and nodding heads.