Hip-Hop Vinyl Neuheiten & Releases - News

This is a long overdue reissue of a fantastic album! Here we find a pure disco classic from the US scene of the late 70s. The original copies retail at plus $300, that's only if you can find one at all! So those who love to spin good music, but are unwilling or unable to lay down too much money can now lend an ear to this fine vinyl! The opening track is 6.5 minutes long and consists of ongoing grooves with a hint of rock thanks to the melodic lead guitar. The driving rhythms are irresistible with soulful and strong female lead vocals that capture you right away. This reminds me strongly of the lengthy Donna summer dance classic, released during the same period 'Better than walking out' which became a dance floor sweeper. There is nothing complicated here, just sheer groove interwoven with catchy melodies. 'Lovin' you is so easy' follows and is a mid-paced soul anthem that comes as clean, slick and close to pop music a tune can come, but the melody of the chorus will stick to your mind. The arrangements are tight revealing several layers of instrumentation on second take. The lead singer's expressive voice matches with the best of its genre. A grand dame of soul familiar to a wide audience. While we ruminate about the different stylistic ingredients of this album we reach ''Woman', an entire instrumental with a straight groovy beat paired by cool funky rhythm guitar that lies beneath a soundscape made by the electric piano. Both seem to interact tightly and communicate with another. This tune just moves you physically with ease. Lushly orchestrated ''Our love is special' turns out to be a wonderful soul pop anthem of the kind that stays with you when you have only enjoyed it once. I'm almost certain that most fans of the late 70's soulful dance and pop will spin this record over and over again. This is what the DISCO LADIES are made for. Their music has this certain disco feeling but the classic 60s Motown Soul roots are so obvious and keep the whole collection of songs so grounded, that the music will go straight to the heart, nestling there for a long time. ''I second that emotion' is again a mid-paced groover that has this fluttering beat with great instrumental figures build upon this footing. One might hear elements of reggae, gospel and funk melting into an utterly joyful soul pop tune that eventually would become an evergreen in the clubs. Last but not least we are treated to ''Woman', again the arrangements of lead and backing vocals are amazing! These are footed by equally amazing strings and horns. These melodies, soulful, expressive, intense and full of joy! The last tune is a vocal version of 'Woman'. Definitely being the highlight of the entire album and a worthy finale for a record that sticks out of the masses of disco music productions of it's era! All this makes a wonderful and delightful reissue ! worthy of joining every black music aficionado of the 1970s.

In the '70s, Yan Tregger was far to believe he would become one of the most emblematic artists in the "sound illustration" scene. Yet today, his albums are highly coveted by "diggers" all around the world. At the time, nobody paid much attention to all those records that were classified as sound illustrations, or library music.
Yan Tregger started out in this environment in the late '60s. He was remarked after making several recordings for the credits of TV shows, and received a proposal to compose his first album. It was a small label (Marignan), the sleeve design was skimpy and the track titles were bizarre... Yet when you listened, the sound was seriously groovy. The album was called Freezing Point and a mere 300 copies were pressed. Thanks to this first test, other "illustration" professionals were convinced by Tregger's qualities.
During this period, there was no lack of work but there was no glory on the program either. In the '70s, many different labels such as Neuilly, Montparnasse 2000, or the Italian CAM label, called on
his services. Shortly afterwards, Philips released two of his records under the name Major Symphony, and then Polydor issued the two M.B.T. Soul albums, including one international
success, "Chase". Up until now, despite the interest shown in his discography, no reissue had been undertaken - an
omission that has just been fixed thanks to the release of a compilation that we are pleased to present. Let's start with the main information: the tracks included on the album were selected jointly by a number of collectors and Yan Tregger himself. The selection is rich and surprising. The A side is more "seventies", with an instrumental pop style and a psychedelic vibe, while the B side is more rhythmic and melodious, corresponding more with the funky disco moods of the eighties.7

Harlem's legendary Disco label Queen Constance has long been a cult favourite among fans of underground dance music for decades.

One of many labels operating under the equally legendary P&P family of imprints Queen Constance was operated by one Peter Brown, a truly colossal figure in NYC's music scene, it's catalogue still fascinates music lovers to this day. Covering a wide range of styles including Gospel, early Rap and Disco the label's output continually finds it way into the playlists of respected DJ's and selectors across the globe. High Fidelity will be the first in a series of Queen Constance rarities to be reissued, an extremely rare and coveted record that can change hands on the second hand market for big big money, avoid those low rent bootlegs that are out there and cop this fully licensed repress.

The group's self-titled sole long-player is a fantastic 6 track set of gritty, soulful and uplifting funky Disco with a DIY edge. Not too much is known about the artists themselves, or even when the record was performed, recorded or released but it certainly sounds like a group who knew their craft inside out. The energy is high across the record and the group sound like they're on fire, just check the outrageously funkified 'Magic Carpet' and you'll see what we mean. Amazing. The whole project has that enchanting lo-fi, back-street feel to it in terms of production and the mind boggles as to how such a record would have come off had it been recorded at a Motown or any other 'big' studio, but no matter as this release is perfect the way it is, an essential piece of street-level NYC Disco straight from the underground.
This is a 100% legit reissue, made in conjunction with Above Board distribution and the Demon Music group, lovingly remastered with love by Optimum Mastering, Bristol UK.

Fantastic new LP on Pin Cushion Records featuring eight superb tracks of the finest funky rock, folk and soul. The A side kicks off with the awesome funky monster 'Save Me', an absolute dancefloor bomb with slamming b-line from Nanette Workman's self titled 1976 LP. Next up is the super funky 'Lucky Lost Sin', a wicked female vocal funk-folk-jazz cut that also works well in the clubs, followed the great uplifting vibe of Rory Block's 'Lovin' Of Your Life'. Closing this side we have the wonderfully laid-back 'Santa Cruz Mountains' taken from Eddie Callahan's hugely in-demand and impossible to find 'False Ego' LP. The flip side features the excellent 'Spill The Wine', a great Rhodes-driven workout from Eric Burden's WAR, followed by David Amram's 'Message To The Politicians of the World', a killer spoken word track over a sweet melody. Next up is Friends Of Distinction's 'Light My Fire', an amazing funky cover of the Doors' classic taken from their rare 1969 Highly Distinct LP and last but not least a cool breezy summer groover from Bay Area band Kingfish whose lineup included the legendary Bob Weir, founder member of The Grateful Dead. A superb selection of tracks, not to be missed.

Fourth Kind the self titled mini album on Omniverse Records. It's hard to pinpoint a genre with records like this; produced by Marc Mac of 4hero and similar to some of the 4hero output, it defies genre and fits somewhere in-between many. The production is heavily reliant on synthesisers and vintage drum machines in places but is full of real life and organic movements, this is partly down to the signature drums played by Luke Parkhouse. The only other guest spot is filled by Nu Jazz Funker Pascal Strauss aka Luman Child who plays bass guitar on "Take Me To Your Sky" which along with "Afterglows" are the closest we get to dance tracks, in most parts a 70s fusion feel is present. The short interlude type tracks tie the journey together and I would go as far as to say vital to telling the story. Moogs, Arps and Solina strings weave patterns throughout, all in all, across the 10 tracks the album is a journey of mood and emotions. 180g Pressing. Released 28th September 2018.

2018 was the hottest summer on record...so let's see if we can cool things down while still keeping it warm all over (and over). Enter Kool Customer: a new collab from LA's beatsmith B.Bravo and the Bay's croon daddy Rojai, coming out September 21 on Bastard Jazz. The vibe: think West Coast Boogie Funk A la Dam-Funk, thrown in Styrofoam cup with some 80s synth steez, then escorted to the strip club (at 3AM) dressed head to toe in a white tux lined with gold chains.

The LP's kick-off "Play" is an ode to bed springs, as is the grand finale "Tonight's the Night"— but what happens in between the sheets Prepare yourself for the smooth basslines and raspy bars of "Sweet Tea," the creamy licks and buttery synths of "Pure Delight," and the heads down r&b of "Rain on My Window." You can also envision yourself cruising in a low-rider when throwing on the breezy "Blackberry (Somebody Told Me)," or surfing (slash exhaling) a cloud above the city on the woozy "Nice Touch." Expertly produced beats are nestled up to warm vocals and crafty lyricism about life and love and lust in 2018 a plenty here.


Metaphors aside, the debut from Kool Customer finds two talented musicians doing what they do best: chilling you out while making you move, in perfect unison. Also, keep an eye out for the super-special deluxe pack, that might just come in handy when you need it most. Ooh La La.

Marti Caine's infamous Point Of View is a groovy blend of slow-mo funk, dark disco and precise pop. Originally released on BBC Records in 1981, it has attracted a considerable cult following this century. The odd charity shop score aside, it has been impossible to find a copy for less than eye-watering sums (often selling for over £200) and, as such, it's an honour to present the first officially licensed vinyl reissue of this sublime record. Featuring expert liner notes written by Bill Brewster - perhaps the record's most notable champion - this lovingly curated release is limited to just 500 copies.

Marti Caine was a popular UK TV entertainer in the late 1970s onwards and Point Of View presented her with an opportunity to proceed in a hip direction by working with British R&B heavyweight Barry Blue. His legendary reputation was secured with a string of great records, among them the first three Heatwave albums, the Balearic hit "Afro Dizzi Act" by Cry Cisco and the cult smash "Breakin' In" by Javaroo. However, despite the array of talent working on the album, Point Of View sank without trace at the time. It's something that Blue attributes to the bizarre way BBC Records worked, and he entertainingly expands upon this within the liner notes.

Musically, the highlights are many and memorable. Its most notorious track is the sublime soul stepper "Love The Way You Love Me", the reason most people covet this album so profoundly. However, from the dark dubby disco of "Snowbird City" to the moody ballad "Love Is Running Through Me", the lesser heralded tracks are nothing short of exquisite. Indeed, the chugging elegance of sleazy disco opener "Can I Speak To The World Please" showcases a string-drenched strutting-funk that would've been enviable the world over. It's that good.

The outlandish artwork - presenting a striking, green-eyed Marti treating a tiger to a headlock - has been faithfully restored and is arguably worth the price of admission alone. With access to the original tape transfers, Simon Francis' sensitive mastering elevates the sound throughout and, as ever, it has been pressed at a reassuringly weighty 180g. Sadly, Marti died of lymphatic cancer at the tragically early age of 50 in 1995, so is not here to experience what we hope will be a long overdue reappraisal of the hitherto underheard genius of Marti Caine, the singer

Pharoah Sanders has been described as 'probably the best tenor player in the world', emerging as a star from playing saxophone with John Coltrane in the 1960s. As a solo recording artist he is best loved by fusion fans for the jazz dance classic 'You've Got To Have Freedom'. It's taken from his 1980 album 'Journey To The One' featured here for the first time on the complete side of a 12' single.
'Got To Give It Up' is Pharoah's outstanding rendition of the Marvin Gaye classic. It has previously been on 7' but never until now in its full length version on 12' single. It was originally a feature on the 1978 album 'Love Will Find A Way' produced by Norman Connors. To have both of these masterful recordings on one 12' single is something special.

Official re-release of The Nelson Family's Gospel LP from 1986. Essential for any serious collectors of Gospel. Quality from end-to-end, including the cuts Thank You Lord (firm favorite of Floating Points and Skymark), Filled With His Spirit and Everlasting Love.

Divine gospel modern soul boogie LP written, composed and produced by Jeffrey Roberson, first released in 1982 on Black Diamond Records.

Every once in a while, an exceptional talent impacts the gospel industry and leaves an incredible impression. The anointed and Grammy nominated Jeff Roberson is one of the those rapidly expanding gospel artist who have done just that.

Jeff Roberson was born and raised in Long Island, New York, the son of Pentecostal parents who had a compelling love for music. Actually, he is endowed by God with a melodic intrinsic distinctive rooted and grounded in the splendid tradition of the church. His keen interest and focus in music was so intense that his
parents encouraged him by purchasing a piano. During his teenage years, he was significantly blessed to be tutored by the late Rev. Timothy Wright, and the late Professor Benny Cummings and the Kings Temple Choir. It was during this season of his life that he continuously developed his skills as a keyboardist and songwriter.

Not only is he a skillful world-class vocalist, his talents transcend various creative art forms such as a skillful musician, innovative producer, accomplished pianist and organist. He simultaneously projects his uncompromising vocal talents and musical gifts to an unprecedented level of artistic achievement. Simply stated
he excels in the excellent - (Excerpt taken from Jeff Roberson's biography).

'Ever since I can remember, music has been to me, as a mother is to her child. Just as the sun enhances daylight, music is my life throb. Music puts life and joy in that sacred dimension. It fills the void of darkness and brings with it New Life.'

Jeffrey

Those Dusty Donuts brothers are back with another release and in true Hip Hop fashion of bridging originals with their 90's club classic counterparts. For their 10th release, the duo of Marc Hype and Naughty NMX take a stab at Funky Thang' with some stone cold Godfather of Funk and connect the dots through the underground via Lords Of The Underground. Gear up on your fatigues and Timberlands because you're gonna need them! The flip side takes elements of some favourite 45 selections including Gwen McCrae, Sister Nancy and Sweet Charles to pay homage to Main Source. Hearing 90% Hangin Out' shows you exactly how deep Main Source was digging and just how crafty they were with putting songs together especially with this one. Reimagined by none other than Jim Sharp who never disappoints.

The Meters is the debut studio album by the band of the same name. It's an essential album in the funk scene and one that contains a lot of energy and soul. Organist Art Neville led the quartet which consisted of guitarist Leo Nocentelli, the rhythm section of bassist George Porter and drummer Joseph 'Zigaboo' Modeliste. New Orleans funk in their beauty of simplicity, it's what makes this album so remarkable. Each and every songs is brimming with hooks, melody and variety. Deep grooves on the single hit 'Cissy Strut' and guitar riffs echoing throughout 'Ease Back'.

Salsoul Records present a crate digging anthology of the more electronic, early 80's leaning side of their catalogue - 'An essential collection of early 80's post Disco electronic grooves from the Salsoul vaults'.Primarily a salsa label on it's inception, Salsoul delved into numerous styles throughout it's existence but this killer selection focuses on the period of time where music entered the 1980's and studio technology changed.
A plethora of funked out, dubbed out electronic Funk across 2 discs is what 'Salsoul Boogie' offers - Choice cuts from the likes of Skyy, Aurra, Leroy Burgess, Civil Attack and many more! Featured are the full 12" dance mixes for unlimited dance-floor pleasure. Mixes by Larry Levan, Shep Pettibone and Francois K feature. One cannot underestimate the importance of these tracks on contemporary dance music, but the Funk is the most important thing here, important tracks yes but also amazing records to dance to that capture a time in NYC when clubs were place to be, sanctuaries of escapism, hedonism and expression. Essential listening right here - 'Boogie's Gonna Get Ya'!
Curated with the full input and backing of Salsoul Records and carefully selected to reflect the truly timeless nature of the music contained within. For listening, for dancing, for turning on a party! Remastered by Optimum Mastering. Artwork & design by Million Dollar Disco.

The comeback of the growing bin's favourite private german Jazz Funk gem.
.
Spring is in the air and groove is in the heart for Hamburg's most loveable record label. Following the freak beat festival of Wolf and Wandt's 'Instrumentalmusik' comes a release that's been in the pipeline since the organic imprint first took root, the first reissue of the beautiful 'Señora'. Beguiling and brilliant, this private press princess makes you want to dance, dream and do cartwheels, then breaks your heart when you realise you'll never meet her - a
rare beauty indeed. So it's time to let Basso play cupid and introduce you to the love of your life.

Eagle eyed associates might recognise the sleeve as Basso's everyday avatar, chosen in tribute to his favourite jazz-funk record of all time. Originally released in limited quantities back in 1981,
the self titled 'Señora' was the sole release from a quartet of German groove maniacs, coming together in one ecstatic union of rhythmic precision, smooth riffing and melodic mastery. Take opener 'Paul' for example, a continent away from the West End, this sublime slice of raw guitar, silken keys and gliding bass could have made Mel Cheren proud. From there we're taken on a journey through the syncopated slide of the jazzy 'My Way, Your Way', the samba sway
of the mild and mellow 'Easy Going' and the poetic piano of 'Pearl', a triumphantly esoteric tone poem to close the A-side. 'Señora' ups the tempo on the flipside, galloping through tight triplets, fusion guitar and mind expanding synth play. The B2 brings a strolling bassline and tender tonality, executed with all the ease of the Sunday morning which dawns on the extended and expansive cooler which brings the LP to its final emotional release.

"Perlman's got beats and it ain't no secret." - The Beastie Boys

This lyric might have slid right by you while you were listening to Ill Communication, but the Beastie Boys were not playing when they said that. Robert Perlman, a native New Yorker, was way ahead of the curve and would stockpile an arsenal of heavy duty vinyl way before the 45 record craze took over. This compilation of over a dozen tracks represents a taste of the fruits of his hard work uncovering these often overlooked gems.

Including some personal notes from the artists you can find on this compilation.

'A love project' from the heart and mind of UK broken beat stalwart and iconic keyboard maestro Kaidi Tatham, alongside an outstanding group of Danish musicians led by percussionist Peter Stenbæk.

12 Senses debuts with the Movement EP, a record drawing on jazz-funk, broken beat and disco, laced with the distinctive melodic progressions and boogie touches Kaidi Tatham is known for. Recorded over an intensely productive three-day session, which produced 20 plus songs, this EP is a first taste of what's to come from this creative gathering.

With recent records on First Word, Sound Signature and 2000Black, plus a brand new solo album 'It's A World Before You' it appears there is no letup in Kaidi Tatham's prolific output spanning a 2 decade long career, that has seen him work with artists such as Bugz In The Attic, 4Hero, Slum Village, Jazzy Jeff & Will Smith, Amy Winehouse, Leroy Burgess, Moonchild, Soull II Soul, Amp Fiddler, Mr Scruff and Dego, to name but a few.
Touch starts with the heavily syncopated rhythms of drummer Anders Meinhardt, accompanied by a bed of airy Rhodes, synths and guitar on top of a ruthless, disco-tinged bassline. Life evolves on a spiritual and hypnotic tip with a driving lick that just keeps on building, sprinkled with beautiful intertwining organ, piano and synth solos by Kaidi and pianist Poul Reimann. Movement slows the mood to a soul-tinged stepper with soothing choir and deft touches from the trumpet of Rasmus Juel. Kaidi changes up the pace on his remix with a smooth boom bap vibe before hitting the halfway point and switching up to his signature, breakneck latin bruk funk.12 Senses evolved from yearly marathon concerts at the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, arranged by percussionist Peter Stenbæk, who simply e-met Kaidi Tatham and insisted on him coming to Denmark to share the festival stage. Over the course of five years the friendship and musicianship between the two has gone from strength to strength, reinforced by the skilled musicians around them; drummer Anders Meinhardt, guitarist David Rosenkilde, bassist Andreas Hatholt, trumpeter Rasmus Juel and pianist Poul Reimann. The record was brought to life by Morten Trust (aka. Soulmagic), who kindly contributed his heart, studio and mixing skills to Movement.

Widely available for the first time in forty-five years, featuring 'It's A New Day', one of the most sample breaks in history. Official Mr Bongo.

The Allergies are back with another corking new single - Dance Now is a super-sweet slice of sista funk that packs the sass to shake your ass. Honey Larochelle just wants to dance now and that's what she's gonna do with The Allergies providing the jams! Throw in some killer sax licks from brass man extraordinaire, Mr Woodnote, and it's almost impossible not to get down to this stylish selection of delectable grooves.

These guys are becoming well known for their sought-after double-header 45 records which have a knack of quickly becoming collector's items, and it's easy to see why when they pack out their single releases with quality cuts like 'Fade Away (feat. Andy Cooper)'.

It's another classic fast rap attack from the Long Beach-based MC of Ugly Duckling fame, as he spits rhymes over the 60's inspired samples and fat beats. So, something here for both the dancers and the hip hop heads in one neat little package.

Kojak Giant Sounds - The Records That Always Land Hitside Up!

'Is That Enough' & 'Country Girl' were both originally recorded in the 1970s and had never been available in any format until Cordial Recordings struck a deal with Ruby to release them on vinyl for the first time. 'Is That Enough' is a glorious stepper that was originally recorded during the same sessions as 'Breezy,' which was Ruby & The Mudflaps only previous release in 1977. Whilst on the flip 'Country Girl' is a crossover gem that's filled dancefloors for selected DJs on promo.

Celebrating its 50th birthday this year, Westbound Records is the Detroit institution that discovered Funkadelic and the Ohio Players, with a rich catalogue that is probably amongst the most sampled in the world.

Our 'Super Breaks' series makes a welcome return, throwing the spotlight on the records which have been sampled on both Westbound and its Eastbound subsidiary. These come not only from the more obvious names such as the Detroit Emeralds, Denise LaSalle, Junie Morrison, Funkadelic and Ohio Players, but also the lesser-known Pleasure Web and the Magictones.

The list of artists who have sampled these records reads like a Who's Who of the hip-hop and dance worlds. These tracks will be recognised from well-known records by Kanye West, Dr Dre, Snoop Dogg, A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Fatboy Slim, and many more.

Both the double vinyl and the CD come with extensive sleeve notes and a breakdown of where each track has been sampled.

London's, Latin-Funk / Tropicalia fusion pioneer: Spiteri & music partner Stephen Alpert open up their recordings from the Abbey Road Studios archives (1979) and pass them to Los Charly's Orchestra for a brand new re-processing, connecting the true chemistry of the old school with the current LCO technique, which founders: Juan Laya & Jorge Montiel have been crafting for more than a decade now, inspiring music lovers and producers all around the world.

From the origins of the Ronnie Scott's Latin Jam, to playing at the opening of Amnesia - Ibiza alongside (at the time up and coming talent): Bob Marley..., Spiteri lived it all in an authentic experimental fashion.

A few years later, that Spiteri legacy spread it's roots back in his mother land Venezuela and Latin-America, laying the foundations for a new generation of Latin sounds and fusions where bands of the calibre of Los Amigos Invisibles were to be born.

Los Charly's Orchestra meets Spiteri in order to pay tribute to all those years of creative effort with a new series of Re-works, where the emblematic tracks: Amor & Disco Samba set the scene for an initial chapter.

When Dunham Records/Daptone producer and musician Thomas Brenneck first heard the close family harmonies of the Sha La Das he had a revelation; he knew he had to get it on tape.



Direct from Staten Island, the four Schaldas, father Bill and sons Will aka Swivs, who also toured the world playing keyboard for Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires, Paul of Paul and the Tall Trees and Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires, and Carmine had come into the studio in Brooklyn to record background vocals on Charles Bradley's Victim of Love. It was a passion that drove Brenneck from the very beginning.



'Hearing them sing together in the studio was incredible', says Brenneck. He collaborated with Bill Schalda writing songs and applying harmonic sensibilities rooted in doo wop, blues and soul. It wasn't a stretch for Bill, after all he'd been second tenor when still a teen in Brooklyn vocal group, The Montereys in the 1960s (their 45, Face In The Crowd/Step Right Up on Blast records sells for $500 these days) who would play venues from neighborhood bars to the 1964 World's Fair in Queens.



'Bill is the genuine article, just like Charles Bradley and Sharon Jones, he came directly from the source,' says Brenneck. Indeed, Bill Schalda was right there amongst doo wop and r&b groups of the era, singing Moonglows and Flamingos tunes.

'You'd go out on the street and constantly hear a bunch of guys singing on the corner, they'd finish playing handball in the schoolyard during the day and then they'd start singing at night,' says Bill. 'We were all just guys in the neighborhood in Brooklyn, who gradually found each other.'



After their children were born, Bill and wife Linda moved the family across the Verrazano-Narrows bridge to Staten Island. Growing up, sons Will, Paul and Carmine remember summer nights singing group harmonies on the stoop of their home with their father Bill guiding them. 'He would bring us out on the stoop on Staten Island and he would teach us each parts of say, the sesame street song - we were his backing group very early on - that was fun,' says eldest son, Will.



On this, their debut, the talent is harnessed in 11 songs, each tender-voiced delight delivered with absolute conviction combined with musicians that have help define the Daptone/Dunham Records sound including Brenneck, Homer Steinweiss, Dave Guy, Leon Michels, Nick Movshon and Victor Axelrod. 'I wanted to take the Sha La Das outside of the doo wop genre,' says Brenneck. 'To take the whole vocabulary of doo wop harmony and reapply it to soul - so you get super soulful harmonies along the lines of The Manhattans & The Moments.'



From the opening atmospheric guitar strum of Open My Eyes via a walk along the Coney Island boardwalk catching the last glimpse of sunlight at dusk of Carnival to the sublime crescendo of harmonies of the winsome Love in the Wind, each song evokes a deeply personal yet universal yearning that none of us can escape. Quite simply every song yields magic.

There's something special when a family can meld voices in close harmony. The Everly Brothers had it, The Beach Boys had it, the Schalda's have it.

Gary Chandler (born in 1938) started playing professionally in 1960 in the thriving Columbus Ohio club scene with Hank Marr, Don Patterson and Benny Maupin. He worked in the Motown Revue from 1965-67 and led his own group for over a year. Over the following years Chandler joined joined the bands of Lou Donaldson & Charles Earland where he remained until the recording of his debut album.

Producer Bob Porter, who decided it was time for the skilled trumpeter to make a record in his own right, provided him with an all-star line up of musicians to collaborate on the album. 'Outlook' features Idris Muhammad on drums (which means a frenzy of funky JB-influenced over-the-top soul-jazz drumming), on bass is the legendary Gordon Edwards (known for his work with James Brown, Weldon Irvine, Funk Inc., Aretha Franklin, etc.) and on guitar we have Cornell Dupree (you all know his opening riff on the intro of Aretha Franklin's 'Respect'). Last but least, we have the percussion duties which are handled by Buddy Caldwell (THE session musician for respected labels such as Prestige and who also collaborated on albums by Ceasar Frazier & Melvin Sparks)... speaking of Ceasar Frazier, he's also featured on 'Outlook' with his trademark organ sound.

'Outlook' is one long STEAMROLLER groove & one of the true lost soul-jazz-funk classics. Crate diggers and DJs have coveted 'Baby Let Me Take You (In My Arms)' for years, but in truth, damn near every second of the album demands consideration as a sample. All of this is carefully overseen by engineer Rudy Van Gelder & producer Bob Porter (known for their work with Herbie Hancock, Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis...and many others).

Gary Chandler's first (and only) album was originally released in 1972 on Eastbound Records, super rare and fetching large sums on the collectors market, now finally back available as a limited deluxe vinyl edition (500 copies) featuring the original artwork and liner notes.

Funky Nation is a series of compilations published by the Primitiv label, dedicated to roots of funk music. This first volume aims to present, through major titles and some rarities, the rock and roll foundations that have favored the emergence of a style that is more alive than ever. Let's get funky! Featuring classics from Bo Diddley, Elvis Presley, James Brown, and more.









[I] b1. I've got money (1962) (James Brown & The Famous Flames)

Following two successful volumes of 'Journey Into Deep
Jazz' on BBE, proprietor of London's 'IF Music' record store and walking musical encyclopedia Jean-Claude kicks of a new Introduction To...' album series with this afectionate retrospective of sister labels Black Saint and Soul Note. Cited by some as Italy's answer to Blue Note, Black Saint and Soul Note have together amassed a catalogue in excess of fve hundred albums
between 1975 and 2008. Founded by Giacomo Pellicciotti (producer of Enrico Rava's seminal Katcharpari' album), Black Saint scored a home run with it's very frst release: Billy Harper's 1975 Black Saint' LP, the follow-up to his much lauded Capra
Black' album on Strata-East. Following the blueprint laid down by iconic Italian jazz imprint Horo, Black Saint started life catching recording sessions with American artists as they passed through Italy on tour, as well as releasing Stateside recordings.
For nearly three years Black Saint released a plethora of jazz albums by the great and good of the Free-Jazz movement: Archie Shepp, Don Cherry, Oliver Lake, Muhal Richard Abrams, Malachi Favours and Hamiet Bluiett, to name but a few. At the same time, the label was struggling fnancially and a series of owners came
and went in quick-fre succession. In 1978, the company was fnally bought by Giovanni Bonandrini and his team, who by 1979 had launched a second label, the brilliant Soul Note. As Black Saint had done previously, the frst release on the fedgling sister-label had to be another by Billy Harper. The two labels went onto enjoy much critical acclaim during the mid to late '80s, winning 'The Down Beat Jazz Award' from 1984 through to 1989. Even Sun Ra and his Arkestra got in on the act, his 1989 epic Hours After' was released onBlack Saint.
A snapshot of Black Saint and Soul Note's frst ten years, this album presents only the very choicest cuts, lovingly remastered to vinyl. If you're already a fan of these labels, you should delight in Jean-Claude's selections, while if you've never come across these jazz jewels from Lombardy / Italy, this compilation will
surely blow you away.

About the series:

A side-bar to Jean Claude's 'Deep Jazz' album series, 'An Introduction To...' aims to highlight an artist or, as is the case for this frst volume, a particular label that might have gone unnoticed by all but the most ardent collectors.

Official Reissue Of The Only Full-length Lp From Brit-funk Masters, Atmosfear.

'Misdemeanour' is a truly classic break and has been utilised by Madlib, Big Daddy Kane, Rodney P, The D.O.C, Pete Rock and many more. Danny Krivit edited the track in 2007, adding an acappella version on the front - still a big record with DJ's.

'When I'm Near You' is a deeper cut taken from the 'Foster Sylvers Featuring Pat & Angie Sylvers' LP released in 1974. More beautiful, golden-era soul written by Leon Sylvers III, produced by Jerry Butler, Keg Johnson and Michael Viner.

Lizzy Mercier Descloux may have come of age in Paris, but it's in New York's Lower East Side that she really came alive. The French punk pioneer, a friend of Patti Smith and Richard Hell, moved to New York in 1977 and soon immersed herself in avant-garde poetry, performance art, and punk music.

Closely associated with the founders of ZE Records (home to Was (Not Was) and Kid Creole & The Coconuts), Descloux released her debut album, Press Color, in 1979, revealing a punk-funk sound that positioned her as the French answer to the UK group The Slits or New York's own ESG. Just as The Slits gave "I Heard It Through The Grapevine" a makeover fit for warehouse parties on their celebrated Cut LP, Descloux's album revealed a penchant for the unexpected cover version too. It kicks off with a brilliantly rhythmic take on The Crazy World Of Arthur Brown's Fire-a hit, like Marvin Gaye's in 1968. There's also a version of Lalo Schifrin's theme from Mission Impossible that appears to predate the breakbeat scene by a good twenty years. Elsewhere, we hear echoes of Serge Gainsbourg's Afrobeat-influenced work, Blondie's disco-inflected punk, and Talking Heads' world music-inspired art pop.

acked by guitarists/bassists D.J. Barnes and Erik Elliasson plus drummer Jimmy Young, Descloux creates a naïve musical world in which rhythm is everything—not a byproduct of the song but the reason for its existence. It's neither played nor sung with any great skill, but it has feel and character in spades and a looseness that's all too rarely achieved.

Of course, an artist with song titles including 'Tumor" (a cover of 'Fever" with amended lyrics) and "Herpes Simplex" is never a shoo-in for mainstream acceptance, and like many a No Wave classic, the album sold little. Now regarded as a cult classic, this Light In The Attic reissue is presented in an extended 18-track edition, collecting much of Descloux's work, including "Morning High," recorded with Patti Smith.

Descloux returned to Paris upon scoring a contract with CBS and soon found herself travelling to Africa to research the Afrobeat sound experimented with-from afar-on Press Color. The hit single "Mais où Sont Passées les Gazelles" and album Zulu Rock followed. By the 1990s, Descloux had turned her back on music in favor of painting and writing, which she continued until her death in 2004. Her playful spirit lives on in this LP.

'Only One Can Win' - brilliantly flipped by J Dilla on his epic 'Two Can Win', that appears on his legendary 'Donuts' LP for Stones Throw.

'Fools Paradise' is a midtempo soul/funk jam taken from the first 'The Sylvers' LP. A favourite at Mr Bongo HQ that we felt needed to appear on a 7'.

Beautiful, golden-era soul written by Leon Sylvers III, produced by Jerry Butler and Keg Johnson.

SOLID GOLD SOUL-FUNK FROM THE SYLVERS, TAKEN FROM THEIR DEBUT SELF-TITLED ALBUM. CUT LOUD AT 45RPM.

Two more of our favourite cuts from The Sylvers first album, produced by Jerry Butler, Keg Johnson and Michael Viner, written by the hugely talented Leon Sylvers III.

'I Know Myself' was sampled by 9th Wonder for his 'Easy' track.

Crazy Beautyfull Cheezy Vibes ! A Pure Pleasure ! Needed !!!

* Out of print since 1997

* Sixteen carefully selected tracks including their most renowned work

* Covering Funkadelic at the height of their career (1970-1976)

* Double LP set that comes with OBI-strip, Limited to 1000 copies

Tidal Waves Music proudly presents: FUNKADELIC Finest

Compilations are tricky and hard to get right ... Finest is that rare one that knocks it out of the park. This release focuses on George Clinton and crew at the height of their career & on their most renowned work.

Comprised out of sixteen carefully selected tracks and covering a six-year period (1970-1976) Finest may be the best-assembled Funkadelic collection from this period yet, as both renowned band standards share space with several oft-overlooked tracks.

The early tracks "I Got a Thing" and "I Wanna Know if It's Good to You" show the band-members still honing their rich 'n' funky sound, before they hit their stride with selections from the classic 'Maggot Brain' album. As a result, you get a healthy sampling of some of the best funk the '70s had to offer, including "Hit It and Quit It," "You and Your Folks, Me and My Folks," "Loose Booty," "Cosmic Slop," "Red Hot Mama," and "Get Off Your Ass and Jam."

Finest is an exceptional sampler for those discovering the wild and wacky universe of Funkadelic. Out of print since 1997 and transferred from the original analogue master tapes, now finally back available as a deluxe Double-LP set with some of the craziest psychedelic crumb-style artwork you'll ever see.

With this second release, Hawaii Bonsaï Records proves once again that they are your number one destination for all your Latin Bass needs ! Few labels have the insight necessary to gather all those producers and deliver a comprehensive and exciting picture of what tropical and latin bass is today as it grows in the hands of South-American, European or US producers. Think some blends shouldn't exist Listen to this incredible mixture of dub, cumbia, trap, traditional Andean music, beats, latin pop, folk, Zouk, and think again as this compilation sets yet another landmark in this expanding musical family.

In the mid eighties FM radio stations took over the airwaves in Nigeria. They wanted fresh new styles to play andin creasingly radio personalities like Bisi Olatilo, Ruime Effetie and Shea Martins were turning to reggae. Nigeria's Freak Father Number One, Benis Cletin, saw the writing on the wall and created his deeply philosophical roots reggae opus, 'Alpha & Omega'. Benis delivered a set of songs that tapped unashamedly into reggae's message of peace and love. The title track is a philosophical opus on the state of the world and how to live in it. 'Unqualified' warns against letting others tell you how to live. 'Guns for Freedom' is more militant call to arms, undercut by a lilting flute line from the legendary Eji Oyewole. Benis didn't completely abandon his freaky, funky roots. 'Soul Fever' is a slab of synth-driven boogie and 'Get Up And Dance' is pure funk with that typical Benis freak edge. But overall, 'Alhpa and Omega' is designed to soothe the minds of the oppressed in this unjust world - an African roots reggae classic that sounded great on FM radio.

The prophets of fake/punk jazz return. The great thing about Blurt is that some decades on from seminal classics such as My Mother Was A Friend Of An Enemy Of The People and The Fish Needs A Bike the band is still creating vital new music - with similarly remarkable song titles! The inventiveness of Ted Milton's sax/guitar/drums line-up remains undimmed - Giant Lizards On High grabs you by the scruff of the neck, forcing you to do the jerk (or whatever your favoured dance step is) from the off. Mesmeric, funky guitar and drum patterns played by Steve Eagles and Dave Aylward respectively provide the perfect foil for Milton's trademark abrasive saxophone melodies and cracked vocals, culminating in the shoutalong refrain at the end 'Go forth and multiply' - every schoolboys' favourite way to tell the world to Eff Off with a cheeky grin on his face. Flip the disc - once you can stop repeat-playing the A-side - and you'll find the similarly infectious Fresh Meat For Martyrs ready and waiting for you with punky-reggae grooves and yet more pseudovirtuosic saxophony filling the spaces. Once more it's hard to stop dropping the needle back at the start once the echoes have faded at the end. Thirty-five years on Blurt is still in it's prime - the band that trumpet maestro Don Cherry once said reminded him of his early days with Ornette Coleman when they were at the cutting edge of the avant-garde. Praise from the top indeed. Live : Single Launch Weekend : November 22 - Blurt live at Stroud Valley Arts, November 23 - Blurt live at Birthdays, London N16.

'I've Been Loving You' sees Manford Best finally laying the ghosts of The Wings to rest and emerge as a serious player in the glittering new world of Afro boogie. Recorded in London, with Nigerian super producer, Jake Sollo, at the desk, it is a highly polished collection of disco classics, guaranteed to fill any dance floor in the world. The title track gets the party started with an irresistible bass line and chirpy horn section. Written by Best while he was still in The Wings, the song is unrecognisable from the one that topped the Nigerian charts in 1973. 'Let's Spend The Night Together' has a groove that suggests Manford has the dance floor on his mind, not the bedroom. 'I Feel Like Dancing', written by Jake Sollo and featuring the vocals of Nigerian diva, Pat Henry, is sophisticated and sexy and a stone cold classic of the era. 'I've Been Loving You' is an extraordinary metamorphosis. Manford Best, the rough and ready guitarist from the back blocks of eastern Nigeria, emerges as a glittering 'disco' butterfly, ready to strut the dance floors of London - and the world.

First Time Out is a cosmic soul transmission from Nigeria's own Diana Ross, Theadora Ifudu. The arty co-host of hit TV program, 'The Bar Beach Show' hooked up with the guys from Monomono to created an album that is sultry, sexy and effortlessly cool. It's a smoky, New York Soul Club on wax. A graduate of the New York film school, Ifudu considered herself an artiste, and the opening track, 'Hello There!' Is arresting in its cinematic scope and intriguing strangeness. After briefly channelling Miriam Makes in 'Gbata Ngwa', she moves into full diva mode. '(When Will It Be) Right Time' features vocal runs that Mariah Carey would be proud of and 'That Man' has a smoky, jazz club vibe. It's easy to imagine Theadora, under a single spotlight, dazzling in a sparkling figure-hugging crowd, holding a hard-to-please New York audience in her thrall. At times funky, laidback and smooth, the greatest compliment that can be paid to First Time Out is that it sounds international. The musicianship is first class, the vocals faultless and the mood super smooth. Theadora Ifudu, the self-proclaimed 'moon watcher, ragdoll and artiste', created an Afro soul masterpiece for the ages. - Peter Moore,