Search:soul jazz records

Soul, jazz-rock, candombe and funk blend in the cocktail of La Banda's first and sole album. Often regarded as Argentina's first supergroup, the ensemble built a reputation on their explosive live performances during a time of political repression. Short-lived but unforgettable, the six-piece brought together top-tier jazz musicians—five Argentinians alongside Uruguayan icon Rubén Rada—to deliver a deep, hard-hitting sound that resonates far beyond its era.

Rada arrived in Buenos Aires bruised — a romantic disaster and a string of empty concert halls back in Montevideo had pushed him to start over at 35. Behind him lay a remarkable journey: from inventing candombe beat with El Kinto, to leading the Latin rock powerhouse Tótem, to recording cosmic jazz with Opa alongside the Fattoruso brothers. Trumpeter Benny Izaguirre, the band's architect, gathered around him a cast of heavyweights: pianist Jorge Navarro, an essential figure in the Buenos Aires jazz scene since the 1950s; saxophonist Bernardo Baraj, forged in Alma y Vida, Argentina's jazz-rock champions; and the irresistible rhythm section of bassist Ricardo Sanz and drummer Luis Ceravolo, both veterans of Astor Piazzolla's quintet. All three — Baraj, Sanz and Ceravolo — were simultaneously part of Banda Spinetta, the jazz-oriented project of Argentine legend Luis Alberto Spinetta.

The sessions also drew in two guests who needed no introduction: guitarist David Lebón — veteran of Pappo's Blues, Pescado Rabioso, Color Humano and Serú Girán, one of Argentine rock's true giants — and guitarist and producer Daniel Homer, a quietly indispensable figure across Buenos Aires' jazz and rock scenes.

Recorded in 1979 and gone almost as soon as it arrived — La Banda's brief existence and this sole album are what Buenos Aires sounded like when it was allowed to breathe. Between raids, between disappearances, in the stolen hours when music was louder than fear.

Reverie is the first full-length collaboration between Ori Kaplan and Lihu Melamed - a cinematic, soul-soaked LP that drifts between modal jazz, cinematic scores and psychedelic rock, released on Batov Records.
Saxophonist and producer Ori Kaplan is best known as a founding member of Balkan Beat Box, for his work with Gogol Bordello and more recently, Shotnez, while Melamed brings a deep studio craft honed over years as an engineer, producer and multi-instrumentalist. Together, they create a record that feels both ancient and immediate: music that evokes old biblical films, sun-bleached Western soundtracks and 70s jazz explorations, while remaining playful, spontaneous and deeply human.

There’s a strong cinematic undercurrent throughout Reverie. Think Charles Heston wandering through an Old Testament epic; Ennio Morricone soundtracking a desert horizon; Nino Rota scoring Fellini’s Rome; or Pasolini filming in Ethiopia. Minor-key strings, modal structures and unhurried grooves sit alongside echoes of Mingus and Yusef Lateef, with Ori’s baritone sax and flutes guiding the listener through shifting scenes and moods.

Big Crown Records is proud to present Adult Themes, the latest full length offering from El Michels Affair. This album takes the band's "Cinematic Soul" aesthetic literally and sends the listener on a journey through a whirlwind of moods and energies. With their 2005 debut album Sounding Out The City, EMA spearheaded an instrumental funk / soul movement that inspired a slew of bands and even lead to the creation of a few independent record labels. El Michels has since lent his signature sound to artists from Adele to Dr John, Lana Del Rey to Aloe Blacc, and a who's who list of others. In 2016 he co-founded Big Crown Records and has since produced the lion's share of its output. A short stint as the touring band for Wu Tang Clan in 2007 led to the cult classics Enter The 37th Chamber (2009) and Return To The 37th Chamber (2017). Adult Themes marks the long awaited, highly anticipated return to an album of original compositions from El Michels Affair. In 2017 in between producing, playing, and recording on other artists' records Leon Michels began creating compilations of short interludes intended to be sampled by hip hop producers. Some of these wound up becoming songs by Jay Z & Beyonce, Travis Scott, and Don Toliver. These minute-long snippets were inspired by the dense moody work of `60s composers like David Axelrod, and Francois de Roubaix, as well as Moondog's brand of classical jazz. Michels was having so much fun creating these instrumental / orchestral nuggets that he decided to expand on some of the ideas and create what would become the soundtrack for a movie that has yet to be made, an imaginary film entitled "Adult Themes." The album plays like the colors on an artists pallet. Songs like "Rubix" and "Villa" are densely orchestrated with the hard-hitting drums that El Michels Affair is known for. On "Life of Pablo", Leon's son makes his first appearance on record and intros a song with an epic arrangement and a moving mood. "Hipps" is a drum heavy ballad that could've easily fit on EMA's debut record, Sounding Out the City. Other compositions like "The Difference" and "Kill The Lights" are bare, melodic mood pieces with sparse drums and sophisticated chord movement. All of these tunes come together to make perfect backgrounds for dialogue and action. One of the beautiful things about instrumental music is that the listener can decide what the narrative is. With Adult Themes El Michels Affair has created a "choose your own adventure" in musical form.

Who could have imagined that Ryo Fukui had left behind a recording like this? Captured on June 8, 1977, this previously unreleased live session was recorded at the Sapporo jazz club Vidro by Masataka Ito, the producer behind Fukui’s albums Scenery and Mellow Dream. It is unmistakably the Ryo Fukui Trio of that era, yet the performance possesses an overwhelming intensity and freshness that far surpass any studio recording—excitement in its purest form.

The 16-minute, searing performance of “Mellow Dream” is just the beginning. The propulsive energy of “Speak Low”, the beautifully woven lyricism of “Body & Soul,” the blistering drive of “Love For Sale”, the weighty depth of “Mr. P.C.”, and the crystalline fragility of “My Foolish Heart”—each track is delivered with feverish brilliance. It was this very live recording, excerpts of which were evaluated at the Trio Records headquarters at the time, that ultimately led to the production of Fukui’s second album Mellow Dream. In every sense, this is an extraordinarily precious document.

Fenomenon are a trio hailing from Stavanger, on the west coast of Norway. Throughout their career they have released four full-length records, effortlessly moving between future jazz, downtempo, soul, and broken beat.

Their lush debut 12" Pacific Memories on Nuphonic made considerate waves and made the ears of many DJs perk up. As a result, the tracks "Pacific Memories" and "Solara" were featured on many big-name compilations and mix CDs such as Tom Middleton's The Sound Of The Cosmos, Hed Kandi, and MTV Summer Lounge. The latter was also featured in Michael Bay's sci-fi thriller The Island, featuring Scarlett Johansson. The follow-up single visjon.nord was only released as a white label promo due to the unfortunate demise of Nuphonic in 2002.

Pacific Memories: The Early Tapes collects tunes from both these EPs complemented by songs recorded around the same time. Originally released on CD only in 2006 by the Norwegian label Beatservice, it's now available on vinyl for the first time for its 20th anniversary. If you're a fan of Jazzanova, The Cinematic Orchestra, Kinobe, and Blue States, you can't miss this.

Pacific Memories: The Early Tapes is available as a 20th anniversary edition of 250 copies on turquoise and yellow vinyl.

Fenomenon are a trio hailing from Stavanger, on the west coast of Norway. Throughout their career they have released four full-length records, effortlessly moving between future jazz, downtempo, soul, and broken beat.

Their lush debut 12" Pacific Memories on Nuphonic made considerate waves and made the ears of many DJs perk up. As a result, the tracks "Pacific Memories" and "Solara" were featured on many big-name compilations and mix CDs such as Tom Middleton's The Sound Of The Cosmos, Hed Kandi, and MTV Summer Lounge. The latter was also featured in Michael Bay's sci-fi thriller The Island, featuring Scarlett Johansson. The follow-up single visjon.nord was only released as a white label promo due to the unfortunate demise of Nuphonic in 2002.

Pacific Memories: The Early Tapes collects tunes from both these EPs complemented by songs recorded around the same time. Originally released on CD only in 2006 by the Norwegian label Beatservice, it's now available on vinyl for the first time for its 20th anniversary. If you're a fan of Jazzanova, The Cinematic Orchestra, Kinobe, and Blue States, you can't miss this.

Pacific Memories: The Early Tapes is available as a 20th anniversary edition on black vinyl.

Fingier Records, released through Acid Jazz Records, has established itself in recent years as a distinctive voice in contemporary soul, drawing from Northern and Rare Soul, 60’s R&B and Raw Funk, Mod Jazz and Boogaloo, conceived by Argentinian producer Kevin Fingier.

‘Nothing Like Be Present’ is a new dancefloor-filler from Jo Ann Hamilton (USA), backed by The Kevin Fingier Collective. A powerful slice of Rare Soul tailor-made for Northern Soul all- nighters. Vibraphone, backing vocals and tight horn arrangements keep the energy locked on the dancefloor, while Hamilton’s voice takes the record to another level.

The instrumental was simply too strong to leave out, so it features on the B-side - a DJ-friendly cut that will feel right at home in many 7” boxes.

Nonna Fab returns with the third release on his imprint, Movement and Soul Records, with a 5 track club-focussed EP 'Journey To The Outer Atmosphere'.

Following the success of his last release, we see a deeper dive into the more dance-floor orientated sound that Nonna is curating, spanning deeper soulful house across the release with influences of broken beat, jazz and percussive dance music.

The opening track 'Dawn Chorus' is a trip into a more natural soundscape and deeper arrangement of sound. A perfect track to take a steady dance-floor to higher heights.
The A2, 'Low Winter Sun', aptly named deep house music with no frills. Proper sub-bass tuned for tuned-up soundsystem use.
'Meditations' which is the final track on the A side has clear broken beat influences, percussive, deep and rhythmic. A breather for the dance floor.

The title track of the EP, 'Journey to The Outer Atmosphere' is a big peak time house journey to the cosmos. Expansive synths, 909 kit and if timed well, certified to blow the dance floor up. Clear François K inspiration here.
The final track of the release, 'First Light', is proper deep house music named suitably for an early sun rise roller with a huge hammond organ solo, enough to keep the leavers in the building.

Strut Records presents a brand new reissue of the 1975 Brian Auger’s Oblivion Express original album Reinforcements. A gem from the later years of the Oblivion Express band, Reinforcements sees Auger evolve from his early ‘70s jazz-rock fusions towards smoother jazz funk sophistication, continuing his journey from the previous year’s Straight Ahead.
With two former Oblivion Express drummers joining Average White Band, there are obvious comparisons to draw as several tracks lean into groove-driven arrangements and polished mid-’70s production.Never one to follow a predictable path, Auger crafts a steadfast, stylish album that captures the evolving sound of the era, offering a rich snapshot of mid-’70s British soul and jazz-funk.

A fan favourite, the album also marks the return of vocalist Alex Ligertwood (later of Santana), whose soulful delivery is a highlight of many Oblivion Express recordings.
He is joined by Jack Mills (guitar), Lennox Langton (percussion), Dave Dowle (drums), and new addition Clive Chaman (bass, flute) – a family affair with their various kids joining for the cover shoot, the full cast adorned in an array of fine mid-‘70s tank tops.

Album highlights include the heavy funk instrumental jam ‘Brain Damage,’ a dynamic, keyboard-driven showcase of Auger’s virtuosity alongside the burning latin jazz workout ‘Something Out of Nothing’ and soaring closer ‘Future Pilot’ taking us from our present day troubles to “thread the skies to a new location.”
‘Big Yin’ is a heartfelt tribute to former drummer Robbie McIntosh following his untimely death. As with all Auger albums, the energy is nothing but positive and soulful – his back cover quote states “May the love you bring to this world be reflected upon you.”
This new Strut reissue of Reinforcements is curated by Greg Boraman of Impressive Collective in collaboration with Brian and Karma Auger. Fully remastered from the original tapes by United Archiving’s Bill Smith, it is presented as a high-quality single LP replica edition.

Side A’s “Mysterious Vibes” comes from Action (1977), the later-era The Blackbyrds LP produced by Donald Byrd. By this point the group had fully locked into that hazy jazz-funk pocket—rhodes, bassline glide, & drums that feel tailor-made for loops. It’s been a quiet weapon for producers: Kurious (“I’m Kurious”), Paris (“The Days of Old”), plus later flips from Big K.R.I.T. & Dom Kennedy. The Jazz Dub leans into that—stretching the groove, letting the atmosphere breathe, keeping it playable.

Flip side is certified soul-collector territory. Tom Brock’s “When There’s Nothing Left…” is lifted from I Love You More and More (1974), produced by Barry White & Gene Page. Lush, aching, full orchestration—exactly why Just Blaze flipped it for Jay-Z’s “Girls, Girls, Girls” off The Blueprint. One of those samples that instantly connects eras.

This isn’t just a “nice edit” 45—it’s a bridge between jazz-funk heads, soul collectors & hip-hop producers. Both sides rooted in records that already did damage, now reworked for the floor.

At the beginning of the 1960s, at the Berklee College of Music, Byard Lancaster met some feisty friends: Sonny Sharrock, Dave Burrell and Ted Daniel. It is easy to see why he rapidly became involved in free jazz. Once he was settled in New York, he appeared on Sunny Murray Quintet, recorded under the leadership of the drum crazy colleague of Albert Ayler.

In 1968, the saxophonist and flutist recorded his first album under his own name: It’s Not Up To Us. The following year he came to Paris in the wake of... Sunny Murray. He would come back to France in 1971 (again with Murray) and in 1973 (without Murray for a change). This is when he met Jef Gilson, the pianist and producer who encouraged him to record under his own name again.

On Palm Records (Gilson’s label), he would release four albums: Us, Mother Africa, Exactement and Funny Funky Rib Crib.

“Funny Funky Rib Crib” is an unforgettable recording (made up of several sessions dating from the middle of 1974) of creative jazz overwhelmed by funk and soul.

If Lancaster had already made successful albums in the same genre – notably New Horizons, under the name Sounds Of Liberation which he co-led with Khan Jamal –, this one is an homage to James Brown and Sammy Davis enjoying the company of a host of guests including François Tusques (electric piano), Clint Jackson III (trumpet), François Nyombo (guitar), Joseph Traindl (trombone)...

Funny Funky Rib Crib’s cover is a three-quarter profile portrait of the saxophonist (who can also be heard on flute, piano and even vocals), however, on the record, it is the whole group, inspired and frenetic, that tests the melodies of “Just Test”, “Dogtown” or “Rib Crib” – the two versions of which display leader Lancaster’s art of nuance. On both sides of the album, the group also moves into a calmer groove, infused by blues and soul, “Work And Pray” and “Loving Kindness” are meditative tracks where listeners can lay back and relax before asking for more: Funny Funky Rib Crib

Brussels based pianist Giovanni Di Domenicowas born in Rome in 1977. Majoring in 'jazz piano' at music school - he further built on an encyclopaedic technique; rhythm, harmony and tone are informed by non-western traditions yet equally sensitive to Debussy's "Préludes", Luciano Berio's "Sequenzas", to the 'ambi-ideation' heard in Borah Bergman's Soul Note recordings, Cecil Taylor's polissemic density, Paul Bley's bruised transparency and of course, the most radical manifestations stemming from the underworld of pop music, invariably tied together by his own original praxis.
A distinction - one would call it generational - he shares with many of the musicians he has crossed paths with recently, of which we could enumerate Nate Wooley, Chris Corsano, ArveHenriksen, Jim O'Rourke, Alexandra Grimal, Tetuzi Akiyama, João Lobo or Toshimaru Nakamura.
At the request of W.E.R.F. Records, Giovanni created an entirely new repertoire, teaming up with saxophonist Alexandra Grimal and drummer Eric Thielemans. This collaboration resulted in Echolalia, a suite consisting of three parts: Aoede, Melete, and Mneme. The music is captivating, adventurous, and above all, fascinating.

Salin, gefeierte Schlagzeugerin, Produzentin und Komponistin, geboren in Thailand, wohnhaft in Kanada, ist bekannt für ihre innovative Verschmelzung globaler Rhythmen. Ihr bahnbrechendes Album "Rammana" erhielt 2025 eine JUNO-Nominierung als "Global Music Album of the Year" und wird nun flächendeckend auf Tonträger erhältlich. "Rammana" ist eine zutiefst persönliche Reise, die die Klänge Nordostthailands mit dem psychedelischen Soul Westafrikas der 1970er-Jahre verwebt – gefiltert durch Salins modernen Produktionsstil. Inspiriert von traditionellen Trommeln und Volksliedern der Urak Lawoi, einem indigenen Nomadenvolk Thailands, ist Salins Album eine Hommage an die musikalische Migration und den Austausch zwischen Ost und West. Ihre Musik reflektiert Themen wie Identität, Spiritualität und Menschlichkeit, gepaart mit einer Prise Lebensfreude, und erschafft eine einzigartige Klangreise für die Zuhörer. Salin tourte durch Nordamerika und Europa (u.a. Jazztage Dresden, Überjazz, Trans4JAZZ-Festival, JazzOne+ Festival) und trat als Support für Kokoroko und Yussef Dayes auf.

Roland Kirk was an extremely talented multi-instrumentalist, who lost his sight at a very early age, and played unconventional jazz, which was not entirely free but in which melodic and very beautiful phases alternated with moments of complete dissonance and conjured up his urban background, especially reflecting his view of the world as a handicapped man. Kirk was not only famous for his unique sound achieved through his playing several instruments simultaneously and his innovative approach to music but also for his dynamic live performances.

In November 1967 Kirk left EmArcy for Atlantic Records, leading his quartet through a highly introspective, somewhat melancholy programme, which was based in the blues and groove traditions of the mid-60s. Kirk himself played flutes, the stritch, manzello and tenor saxophones, the whistle, clarinet and more – precisely those instruments that had created his unique sound, particularly when some of these instruments were played simultaneously by him. Jazz critics who had previously criticised Kirk’s sound now praised him once they had heard the restrained and elegantly layered "Black And Crazy Blues", the breathtakingly executed Creole "Love Call", the razor-sharp soul in "The Inflated Tear" and the gyrating lyricism of the winds in "Fly By Night" – and quite rightly so.

Roland Kirk convinced his listenership anyway and sold over 10,000 copies of the present LP in the very first year of its release. This is Roland Kirk in his most competent and visionary form; his reading of jazz harmony and capricious sonances is virtually incomparable.

Get ready for Macem Ly"s debut album "Honda Date" - a neologism and a homage to all the hopeful Vietnamese couples he watched as they"d rather hopped on to a Honda moped rushing into nature for a romantic date than facing the rush of urban life. So the multi-instrumentalist and producer artist naturally created the perfect album for all those who travel and observe while enjoying long rides on busses or mopeds - not least for knowers of high-quality instrumental productions with a special place for hiphop tradition in their hearts. With "Honda Date" he showcases his musical prowess rooted in HipHop, Funk and Soul all the while proving a certain versatileness in creating new sounds - that are also born out of his training in classical music. Unconventional drums, alternative 808 beats, delicate soul samples and those of modern Jazz guitarists non unambiguously carry Macems Ly"s handwriting as he pays tribute to the old while non the less creating something new.

GSQ – Gelatology is a sample-based instrumental hip hop project rooted in crate digging culture, built from jazzfunk, soul, prog-rock and world music sources. The release also launches Gelatology, a new Quattro Bambole
Records sub-catalog dedicated to limited-run, sample-driven vinyl-only releases.

Qadir Bijoux has been honing his craft for years, cooking up something deeply soulful, made of organic ingredients and infused with oriental spices. The Dilla-inspired producer/rapper is set to give you a first taste of his debut MEWE - an album with a jazzy, Madlib-esque sound. For the most part it"s an instrumental, sample-based project. Let the filter bass massage you and be mesmerized by Qadir"s and his partner in crime Ninja Kidsoul"s soothing backing vocals.

Ninja Kidsoul"s debut EP "Never Really Gone" continues the Kabul Fire tradition of releasing Germany"s finest sounds made of soul and an international quality. Produced by agajon this project offers a concise peak into Ninja"s sonic prowess & ability to channel the various related cultures of hiphop, jazz and rnb.

Hector Lavoe's "Alejate" (Joe Claussell Mix) Extremely Limited yellow Vinyl repress 12” of the timeless Joe Claussell remixes of the Fania Records masterpiece.

Legendary New York DJ, producer and soul magician Joe Claussell delivers yet another of his stunning reworks of one of Hector Lavoe's Iconic Songs the classic "Alejate." Taken from him universally praised Hammock House Remix produced for the Iconic Fania Records Label. As usual, he brings his signature touch while honoring the original's spirit and with great respect for its Latin roots. Claussell still manages to breathe new life into the track by mixing up organic rhythms and
percussive flair to create a version tailor-made for any dance floor. There is a Dance Dub with a heavier low end and plenty of jazzy expression before the Alt instrumental shuts down. This is a 12" that bridges tradition and modernity with care and creativity.

Each volume in this series dedicated to House influenced by Jazz has been a bestseller.
This volume was previously released only as a double CD, which was long out of print, and now, by popular demand, it has
been released for the first time as a double vinyl.
The sounds here explore not only Jazz but also Soul and Minimal.
All the tracks have never been released on vinyl except the first, a remix by LTJ Xperience, which has long been out of print.
Tracks by Don Carlos, J Boogie, Interanima, Riccicomoto, Guido Nemola, Belladonna, From P60, and Paolo Faz, among others,
are also included.

Founded in 1981 by Tom Silverman in New York City, the label became a cultural engine for groundbreaking artists who blurred genre lines and defined the sound of the 1980s and '90s. Tommy Boy introduced the world to acts like Afrika Bambaataa & Soul Sonic Force, whose 1982 single "Planet Rock" helped launch the electro hip-hop movement. The label also released iconic material from Queen Latifah, Digital Underground, House of Pain, and Coolio, among others. Known for its fearless creativity and ear for innovation, Tommy Boy became synonymous with the golden age of hip-hop and remains a cornerstone in independent music culture. Tommy Boy celebrates its 45th anniversary with this 7" box set of Classics, Fan Favorites and Deep Cuts featuring De La Soul, Naughty By Nature, Planet Patrol, and more.

a 1 Cotton Candy - Havin' Fun (7" Mix) Feat. Donna Trollinger
[b] 2 Afrika Bambaataa & the Jazzy 5 - Jazzy Sensation (Bronx Version) [Short Edit]


[e] 5 The Jonzun Crew - Pack Jam (Look Out for the Ovc) [Remix 7" Edit]














[t] 20 Coolio - 1, 2, 3, 4 (Sumpin' New) [Timber Mix]


[w] 23 Handsome Boy Modeling School - Holy Calamity (Bear Witness II) [Feat. DJ Shadow & DJ Quest]
[x] 24 Handsome Boy Modeling School - the Truth (Short Edit) [Feat. Róisín Murphy & J-Live]

[a] 1 Cotton Candy - Havin' Fun (7" Mix) [Feat. Donna Trollinger]
[b] 2 Afrika Bambaataa & the Jazzy 5 - Jazzy Sensation (Bronx Version) [Short Edit]


[e] 5 The Jonzun Crew - Pack Jam (Look Out for the Ovc) [Remix 7" Edit]














[t] 20 Coolio - 1, 2, 3, 4 (Sumpin' New) [Timber Mix]


[w] 23 Handsome Boy Modeling School - Holy Calamity (Bear Witness II) [Feat. DJ Shadow & DJ Quest]
[x] 24 Handsome Boy Modeling School - the Truth (Short Edit) [Feat. Róisín Murphy & J-Live]

[a] a1 | Cotton Candy - Havin' Fun (7" Mix) [Feat Donna Trollinger]
[b] b1 | Afrika Bambaataa & the Jazzy 5 - Jazzy Sensation (Bronx Version) [Short Edit]


[e] e1 | The Jonzun Crew - Pack Jam (Look Out for the Ovc) [Remix 7" Edit]














[t] t1 | Coolio - 1, 2, 3, 4 (Sumpin' New) [Timber Mix]


[w] w1 | Handsome Boy Modeling School - Holy Calamity (Bear Witness II) [Feat DJ Shadow & DJ Quest]
[x] x1 | Handsome Boy Modeling School - the Truth (Short Edit) [Feat Róisín Murphy & J-Live]

Maqom Soul Launches Its Reissue Series with a Cult Classic from Uyghur Ensemble “Yashlik”.
Maqom Soul, a newly founded Uzbek label dedicated to reviving rare and overlooked music from Central Asia, proudly announces its debut release: a vinyl reissue of the seminal album by the Uyghur vocal-instrumental ensemble Yashlik, originally recorded and released in 1978.
Founded in 1973 as part of the Uyghur Music and Drama Theater in Almaty, Yashlik (which translates from Uyghur as Youth) quickly emerged as a groundbreaking force in the regional music scene. Though born out of a theatrical setting, the group transcended those boundaries with a unique blend of Uyghur folk melodies, jazz influences, Soviet estrada, and traces of psychedelic rock.

The ensemble’s founder and artistic director was Murat Akhmadiev, a prominent figure in both the musical and cultural-political life of Kazakhstan. The album being reissued is one of the rare recordings where synthesizers, electric guitars, and drums appear side by side with traditional Uyghur instruments. More than a musical experiment, it stands as a cultural document of its era a creative attempt to preserve identity through the language of modern sound. Originally recorded at the Melodiya studios in the late 1970s, the album’s initial pressing was distributed only within the Soviet Union. Now, over four decades later, listeners finally have the opportunity to experience this music in a lovingly remastered and reimagined edition.
According to the team at Maqom Soul, beginning the label’s journey with Yashlik was a conscious and symbolic choice: “This was a group that embodied youthful energy, deep respect for tradition, and a genuine thirst for innovation. Their music once played at festivals and on television, and then quietly disappeared. We’re bringing it back — not out of nostalgia, but as a living piece of art.”

Maqom Soul is committed not just to reissuing rare records but to restoring the presence of culturally significant music that helped shape the sonic identity of Central Asia. Forgotten music is also part of the future. Maqom Soul brings it back to the stage.

Mr. YT returns!

The cult deep house alias of Yuji Takenouchi was last seen on Brand New Day in 2017, which compiled a series of soft scenes and deepest soulful house for the ambient techno predator R&S and its Apollo, Generations and Global Cuts sub-labels across the mid-to-late 90s. Quietly and confidently some of the most beautiful house music ever made.

So it's a thrill to announce the Universo EP today on Short Span, and to say that he’s still making incredible new dance music in his studio. This is the first Mr. YT record of brand new material in twenty eight years.

The lushness springs forth as delightfully as ever. The inspirations of Detroit chords floating and interacting with a certain kind of Japanese plasticity and futurism. Crystal clear blue skies, sweet perfume and space race optimism, touched with a gentle wistfulness. The four tracks are each as beautiful and intricately deep musically as they are colourful and buoyed by energy. Ready to delight you.

Universo has some new purpose and drive up front, designed and deployed as his most propulsive dance music as Mr. YT. The tempo is taken up, and tracks frequently break out into virtuosic melody that dances across the pieces. Yuji’s talent for composition that hits as hard as it effortlessly glides hasn’t lost its edge in the quarter century plus break. The kick of “Acuario” and “Escorpio” are finely balanced with the influences of jazz and something a little more padded and cosmic. You could mix these into something by Los Hermanos or Ian O’Brien.

The EP bubbles down to a more yearning, sunsetting ambient house on the B side. The instantly recognisable language of classic Mr. YT, a warm and tender place.

Mr. YT has been absent a while, but Yuji’s busy. He’s established a long career as a musician and sound designer within the Japanese videogaming industry, having his hand in games including FromSoftware’s Dark Souls series surely adds something widescreen and sharply emotionally focused to the direction of his dance music. His Missing Project alias also got some shine from the stellar Music From Memory Virtual Dreams II compilation in 2024, which once again pinned down his enduring importance within the ambient techno movement of Japan. He’s also regularly working with Tokyo’s FORM@ Records and regularly self-publishing interesting work and studio versions. And his Missingsoul alias is still some of the most beautiful deep jazz-house committed to wax on Ron Trent’s Future Vision label. Check it all out!

For Metro Beirut’s latest release, Cem Mo steps forward with his debut vinyl EP, a record that bridges the roots of Chicago and Detroit house with his own deep and textured approach to groove.

Born in Ankara and having taken piano lessons at an early age, Cem drifted from classical into jazz, re-teaching himself harmony and improvisation before finding his way into production. After moving to Amsterdam in 2016, the city’s community and music scene expanded his horizon, shaping a sound that treats producing like improvising, with curiosity for grain, color, and repetition, where subtle shifts make all the difference. Along the way, Cem has released on Handy Records and Rhythm Section, while his project Nowhere People has appeared on Artisjok Records.

This EP brings together a tight circle of artists who deepen its character. Saxophonist Moritz Schuster, known for his work across electronic music and past work with Cem and Malik Kassim, formerly known as Retromigration, delivers a striking, free-flowing performance charged with raw intensity. On “The Hard Way”, Franco Corica joins Cem for a deep, soulful, jazz-leaning moment that feels both reflective and quietly defiant. Finally, longtime friend Malik pulls up with a dancefloor remix that preserves Cem’s melodic sensibility while adding his own loose, resulting in a circular dialogue between two artists who’ve grown side by side.

Artwork: Shahd Issa

SCOTTISH TRUMPETER MALCOLM STRACHAN RETURNS WITH HIS MOST UPLIFTING AND GROOVE-DRIVEN ALBUM YET – “LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE”

On Look On The Bright Side, Malcolm Strachan sounds more open than ever. His third solo album moves effortlessly between soul-jazz, Latin grooves and Afrobeat touches, anchored by the warm, cinematic feel of 1970s jazz but driven by a clear sense of forward motion.

Released on 22 May 2026 via Haggis Records, the album sees Strachan stepping further into his role as a composer and bandleader, drawing together the threads of a career spanning more than two decades at the heart of the UK’s jazz, funk and soul scene.

Where his debut About Time (2020) channelled the spirit of classic Blue Note recordings and Point Of No Return (2023) leaned into the groove-heavy CTI era, Look On The Bright Side feels broader in scope – still rooted in groove, but more open to outside influences and a more consciously uplifting tone.

“I wanted the music to feel upbeat and positive,” says Strachan. “I start at the piano, working through chord ideas until I find something that feels right. Once the harmony is there, the melodies tend to come naturally.” That approach gives the album its fluidity, with tracks evolving from feel as much as structure and arrangements that leave room for interplay and movement.

The Spice of Life, released in November 1969, stands as Marlena Shaw's second--and final--studio album for Cadet Records, produced and arranged by the renowned Richard Evans and Charles Stepney. From the opening, Shaw's voice--both playful and powerful--cuts through the lush yet tight-knit arrangements, weaving together a vibrant tapestry of soul, proto-funk, jazz, gospel, and blues. The album features two defining classics: her deeply resonant original of 'Woman of the Ghetto' and a signature take on Ashford & Simpson's 'California Soul', both staples in sampling culture (you'll probably find that you're more familiar with Shaw's material than you thought.) Evans and Stepney's arrangements are far from mere support--they're panoramic and inventive. You'll hear kalimba flourishes, psych-tinged guitar accents, and bongo-fueled organ textures that elevate each track, keeping the atmosphere rich but never overwhelming. Moments like the Bacharach-styled 'Looking Through the Eyes of Love' or the dramatic flair of 'Stormy Monday' showcase their widescreen sensibility and Shaw's versatility. Beneath its musical elegance, "The Spice of Life" carries a weighty current of social commentary. Tracks such as 'Woman of the Ghetto' and the succinct, fierce 'Liberation Conversation' bring political and feminist themes into a soulful, expressive framework--adding unexpected depth to the sophisticated sonic palette. This album offers an immersive journey through soul-jazz mastery, one that rewarded listeners with sampling gold for decades to come. Reissue on 180g vinyl.

Japan's Takuya Matsumoto returns to Inhale Exhale with a new six-track EP entitled 'Song Of The Ocean'.
Japanese DJ and producer Takuya Matsumoto has quietly established himself as one of the most distinctive voices to emerge from Japan's contemporary house scene. Known for his warm, deeply musical approach to production, Matsumoto blends classic house
sensibilities with jazz, funk and soulful influences, crafting records that balance dancefloor functionality with rich musicality. Through releases on respected international labels like Clone's Jack For Daze and Royal Oak, Vibes and Pepper, and Fina he's built a
reputation for refined grooves, elegant arrangements and a timeless approach to house music.
Across the six tracks Matsumoto once again radiantly showcases the depth of his production skills as the project sonically traverses Balearic-tinged House, bouncy acid- laced electro, cosmic nu-disco, breaks driven jungle and dub infused deep house.

2026 Repress

It’s rare that a certain sound is entirely an artist’s own. Although undeniably a stew of impeccable influences – from blues to folk to Latin to dusty funk, soul and hip-hop – one cannot hear a Tommy Guerrero song without immediately recognising it as his - and his only.
The cult skater from San Francisco is globally renowned as one of the original members of the legendary “Bones Brigade” team. And as an accomplished multi-instrumentalist, his laid-back soul is beloved by all who’ve basked in its blissful glow.
There’s something elemental about this music that really stirs the soul. Strikingly beautiful and instantly addictive, it’s a kind of funk-fuelled, melody-driven, groove-based magic. There’s a serenity and heart in the playing that radiates warmth and splendour, as if crafted for endless sunsets. His albums that surfaced on Mo Wax at the turn of the century have been treasured since their release and it’s two of his most vital LPs that we’re honoured to reintroduce.
The originals were quietly pressed on to a single piece of vinyl so we’ve worked closely with Tommy this year to bring you these fresh, limited editions. They have been lovingly remastered, cut nice and loud on to heavyweight double vinyl and presented in deluxe gatefold jackets.
Soul Food Taqueria continued Guerrero’s guitar soul but represented a step forward with its polished production and greater complexity of instrumentation. Denied the promotion it deserved upon release, it flew under the radar. It is now the most wanted record of his wondrous back catalogue.
Guerrero’s atmospheric touch and subtle guitar provide lush, glimmering pieces of musical texture. Within his spacious compositions, uniquely arranged instruments flourish alongside each other to create a languid soundtrack for halcyon days.
As ever, the diversity on display is beguiling. From bossa nova, samba and cumbia rhythms to understated folk, funk and soul grooves, this is another exotic set of mellow gold; perfectly represented by ESPO’s memorable artwork. Furthermore, the title’s hybridity reflects the intoxicating sweep of stylistic flavours served up, reminding us that, however tricky it is to categorise Guerrero’s special blend, it’s always a pleasure to indulge in something so creative and adventurous.
Dubby, bass-heavy instrumentals give way to moody folk-soul – witness “It Gets Heavy”, featuring melancholic vocals from Gresham Taylor – whilst “Thank You MK” is a gentle ode to the tropics, featuring ethereal instrumentation, bright bass and warm, jazzy guitars. The second half in particular contains a number of stunning ambient tracks – check “Lost Unfound”, “Another Brother Gone” and “Broken Blood” - built around minimalist, laid-back grooves and detailed guitar orchestrations which wouldn’t be out of place on the latest Jonny Nash release.
Guerrero closes this flawless set with a moment of true beauty. Restrained and graceful, “Falling Awake” is a pared back piece containing meditative guitar melodies set against melancholic piano arrangements. It brings proceedings to the most peaceful close. Seductively good, it reminds you just how great simplicity can sound.

2ND LP PRESSING

Cosmic Ear is a new group bringing together Christer Bothén, Mats Gustafsson, Goran Kajfeš, Kansan Zetterberg and Juan Romero. Their debut album TRACES is released by We Jazz Records on 23rd of May, 2025. Including 6 deep cuts, TRACES is an album that sees Cosmic Ear tracking down the "traces" of the legendary Don Cherry's legacy while paving their own way in contemporary creative music expression.

Christer Bothén, a collaborator with Don Cherry during his Swedish period in the 1970s, brings depth to the history of the band, while his bandmates each belong at the top of the game in Scandinavian jazz. Their music is meditative and deep, much recommended for fans of the likes of Don Cherry, Alice Coltrane, and Pharoah. That being said, listeners should approach Cosmic Ear only with openness and curiosity, without set stylistic boundaries, as it's the group's natural flow and togetherness that brings their music into a fresh territory of their own.

As John Corbett writes in his liner notes:

"The Cosmic Ear. Five souls, sometimes six, on the same road. The pied piper path of Mr. Cherry. Christer Bothén, one of Cherry's main collaborators in his Swedish period and one of the most beautiful bass clarinetists on planet earth, together with next-gen saxophonist Mats Gustafsson, who has carried so many torches in Cherry's procession, and younger Swedish stars trumpeter Goran Kajfes, bassist Kansan Zetterberg, and percussionist Juan Romero. Together a tempo is set, a path is charted. There are global grooves. A berimbau, a karignan (metal scraper from Guinea), donso n'goni. There are ET grooves. Synth, live-electronics, slide flute. The globe is a glove, a hand warmer that radiates with extraterrestrial power, returning the fingers to their place at the center of the galaxy; the Cherry path is a balm that restores essential moisture to the lips that blow life back into the megacosm. Let us all praise warm fingers and moist mouths."

Boogie Vice & N-You-Up Return to Definitive Recordings with 'Decadisco EP'

Definitive Recordings continues its run of forward-thinking house releases with DEF2603, the new four-track 'Decadisco EP' from Boogie Vice and N-You-Up. Following their 2025 collaboration 'Come On Closer', the duo returns to the label with a fresh collection of groove-driven club tools that balance modern energy with classic house foundations. Recent releases on sister label Get Physical Music further underline the duo's strong creative momentum.

Boogie Vice is a French DJ and producer known for his groove-led house sound that blends funk, soul, and percussive club energy. With releases on labels such as Get Physical, Rekids, and Definitive Recordings, he has built a reputation for warm, dancefloor-focused productions supported by tastemakers worldwide. Now based in Cape Town, Boogie Vice has expanded his creative work into film scoring and executive production, adding new depth to his already rich musical palette.

N-You-Up, Southern France native Nick, brings decades of DJ experience and a deep-rooted love for jazz, funk, and disco. Formerly known as The Beatangers, he now channels those influences into a refined house fusion under his N-You-Up alias. Alongside Boogie Vice, his collaborative releases have appeared on labels such as Nervous Records and Get Physical Music, with their joint productions receiving support from key artists including Solomun, Dennis Ferrer, Jamie Jones, Pete Tong, Laurent Garnier, Radio Slave or Mita Gami, firmly establishing the duo as a reliable source of dancefloor-ready house music.

The EP opens with 'Game Concept', a driving house cut built on percussive drums, a rolling classic house bassline, and catchy vocal samples. Dreamy, deep synth chords float above the groove, creating a hypnotic yet energetic opener. 'Wurkin Like Dat' follows with a disco-infused house vibe, stacking groove upon groove as vocal snippets and disco elements take center stage, delivering pure dancefloor momentum. Rounding out the EP are two DJ-focused versions of 'Wurkin Like Dat'. The Invasion Tool strips the track back into a flexible club weapon, while the Drumapella isolates the rhythm and percussion, offering maximum versatility for creative mixing.

With 'Decadisco EP', Boogie Vice and N-You-Up once again showcase Definitive Recordings' ability to deliver modern house weapons that honor the genre's past while pushing the sound firmly forward.

Freerange Records proudly presents SUN, the brand-new album from Crackazat - a radiant, genre-spanning statement and the long-awaited follow-up to his critically acclaimed 2021 LP Evergreen. SUN is Crackazat’s fourth album and his most expansive work to date: a rich blend of jazz, house, hip-hop, soul, and funk that fully steps into his own lane as a musician, bandleader, collaborator, song writer, and producer. Early radio support from 6 Music (Craig Charles), NTS and Jazz FM. Press/online support from Notion, Electronic Groove, Atwood, Earmilk & Magnetic Magazine.

‘Black Butterfly’ is Brooklyn Funk Essentials eighth studio album and includes the bands recent hits ‘Never Give Up’, ‘Bust The Bus Stop’ and ‘Life During Wartime’. Playlisted on BBC Radio 2 and Jazz FM and supported by Craig Charles and Cerys Matthews at 6 Music as well as many stations across Europe and the Americas. The album was produced and co-written by bassist Lati Kronlund and features Alison Limerick, Ebba Åsman and Desmond Foster on vocals.

Kronlund and Limerick have been enjoying the recent renewed interest in ‘Where Love Lives’. Kronlund wrote and produced it for Limerick in 1990, it was remixed by Frankie Knuckles and David Morales and became a club classic and was featured in this year’s John Lewis Christmas TV Ad. Arthur Baker heard the original in a club in 1991 that he contacted Kronlund about working together and they then formed Brooklyn Funk Essentials.

Since then, Brooklyn Funk Essentials have built a devoted international following and notched up over 100 million streams. Fusing Soul, Hip Hop, Spoken Word, Jazz, Latin, and, of course,
Funk, the band’s journey began experimenting with drum machines and loops in Baker’s Shakedown Sound Studio in Jersey City—hunting for that perfect beat. The early recordings featured greats such as Maceo Parker, Lenny Pickett, Tower of Power Horns, Michigan & Smiley, and Dizzy Gillespie, leading to the acclaimed debut ‘Cool & Steady & Easy’ (1994). Fast-forward to April 2024, when Kronlund reunited with Baker in Miami, rediscovering recordings featuring percussion prodigy Bashiri Johnson, which inspired new creative sparks for the next chapter of Brooklyn Funk Essentials.

the producer, multi-instrumentalist, DJ and record collector Gabriel Cyr AKA Teleseen releases 5th album 'The Emotional Life of Savages' via French imprint Goldmin Music.

African rhythms, Latin heat and otherworldly electronics collide like neurons, processed through a New York state of mind. The pancontinental sounds are mirrored in his own life, which has oscillated back and forth between various countries.

A jazz background combined with a love for house and techno are ingrained in the grooves. Also key is the samba, baile funk and MPB that inspired him while living in Rio de Janeiro, plus the sounds he reabsorbed on returning to NYC's club scene.

This wide range of influences spanning the global underground coalesces into a rich, vital and coherent whole. Warm and soulful, but also evoking an intoxicating, heady atmosphere, the hypnotic and ultra-rhythmic tracks subtly shift and build to fever pitch, due primarily to deft polyrhythmic drums and percussion - both played and sequenced.

"Working on this record I finally found myself able to manifest a certain sound I'd been hearing in my head for years, combining the rhythmic intensity of afro-house and afro-Brazilian music with the more cosmic sounds of Detroit and deep house", explains Cyr on his musical vision.

The gentle sundowner glow of 'Myrtle Avenue' with its textured synth waves and wandering Parrish-esque keys acts as a precursor to the potent nocturnal adventure to follow: 'Espelhos' captures a similar essence to Black Science Orchestra's classic 'Save Us (The Jam)', before the heat goes up and heads go down for the eastern-tinged, autotune-laden fire of 'Khalil'.

The album then intensifies further still on the percussion-heavy, big bottomed cosmic throb of 'Jaguar', whilst Brazilian flavour meets tech house rush on 'Fundos', before the party reaches its feverish close on the wiggling batucada- meets-tribal-house of 'Temporada De Seca'.

Born in the north eastern United States, as an adult Cyr has always been nomadic. He has sought to live and immerse himself in other cultures and absorb their sounds, but eventually always succumbs to the Big Apple's magnetic pull. Back home, a key inspirational catalyst for the album was the Brooklyn-based party Africainoir, where he's a resident DJ.

Alongside cutting his teeth producing illbient/hip hop and working as an engineer, he ran his own studio for period, before starting his own label Percepts, on which to release his dub techno style debut. He has since released on 100% Silk, Boomarm Nation and Feel Up Records, and now 'The Emotional Life Of Savages' marks Teleseen's first album for Goldmin.

Blending Afro-Uruguayan traditions with rock, soul, jazz, and funk, Ruben Rada has shaped the music scenes of Uruguay and Argentina from the 1960s to the present. Alongside Eduardo Mateo, he pioneered candombe-beat during his time with the legendary band El Kinto. In the early 1970s, he fused Afrobeat with rock in the trailblazing group Totem and later helped define the distinctive jazz fusion sound of Opa-collaborating with the Fattoruso brothers and Airto Moreira during his years in the United States. In the 1980s, Rada settled in Buenos Aires and assembled a powerhouse band featuring top talent from both Uruguay and Argentina. Together, they created a series of unforgettable albums that fused candombe with jazz and rock-marking one of the most celebrated periods of his career. Adar Nebur, originally released in 1984, captures Rada and his band at their peak. Backed by a stunning horn section, they blend Latin rhythms with jazz, soul, and the new wave sounds of the '80s. Now, more than forty years later, this hidden gem is being released internationally for the first time.

Originally released in 1975 on Montilla Records, Fire & Sugar is a rare Afro-Latin jazz-funk gem by Cuban multi-instrumentalist Jesús "La Grulla" Caunedo. A respected yet often uncredited figure who worked alongside artists such as Tito Puente, Machito, Celia Cruz and Chico O'Farrill, Caunedo delivered here his most forward-thinking statement.

Recorded in Puerto Rico, the album blends Afro-Cuban rhythms, heavy Latin percussion, tight brass arrangements, fuzz guitar and jazz-fusion elements moving from explosive dancefloor cuts to deeper, atmospheric moments.

Long prized by DJs and collectors across Latin, funk and rare groove circles, this official reissue restores the full warmth and punch of the original recordings.

An essential 1975 Latin jazz-funk title, back in print.

Transferred from the original reel-to-reel master tapes

Includes previously unreleased track

Audiophile 180g vinyl pressing + Gatefold cover

Liner notes by DJ Bongohead

Long sought-after Afro-Latin jazz-funk

Nico Gomez, a Belgian orchestra leader of Dutch roots, has long been a favourite with Latin fans, record diggers, DJs, and collectors alike. His blend of bossanova, latin jazz, and easy listening always turns up a few choice nuggets and surprises; what is perhaps most remarkable is that it was recorded in Europe.


Back in 2013, Mr Bongo re-issued Nico Gomez's sought-after 'Ritual' album from 1971, and now we follow it up with another jewel from his catalogue his 1972 album 'Soul Of Samba'. For this re-issue, we have opted to present it with the cover art originally used on the Trio Records version released in Japan. In the Netherlands and Belgium, the album was released with different cover art under the title 'Bossa Nova’, on Omega International and International Bestseller Company records, respectively. We loved the beautiful psychedelic design of the Japanese version and wanted to use it for this re-issue.

'Soul Of Samba' features several euro-bossa-jazz favourites such as the catchy 'Rio'; which was a firm DJ choice cut at jazz dance nights, including Brighton's 'Jazz Rooms' in the 90s. It also featured in Rainer Trüby's classic ‘Glücklich' compilation series which explored European-Brazilian-inspired music. The beguiling ‘Aquarela', with its engaging latin shuffle, entices feet to the dancefloor and is not one to miss. 'Agua’ has a lazy-quirky latin-funk feel with breathy-stoned vocals floating in the background. The album additionally features numerous breezy latin, Brazilian, and easy listening joints, some of which are ripe for sampling.

First Word Records is extremely proud to welcome back Kaidi Tatham, with a brand new 12-track album entitled 'Don't Rush The Process'.

This is Kaidi's 4th solo album under his own name, following on from 'An Insight To All Minds' (2021), 'It's A World Before You' (2018), and 'In Search Of Hope' (re-pressed in 2020), all released on First Word, along with several EPs from 2017 onwards.

To bring you up to speed, Kaidi Tatham is a legendary multi-instrumentalist born in the Midlands and based in Belfast. Once dubbed "the UK's Herbie Hancock" by Benji B, he's a virtuoso on the keys and a true innovator in sound production as one of the original creators of the Broken Beat sound. Over the years his musical prowess has blessed numerous projects, recently with the likes of DJ Jazzy Jeff, Andrew Ashong and with longtime accomplice, Dego. This in addition to session and remix work for artists such as Mulatu Astatke, Slum Village, Marcos Valle, Amy Winehouse, Soul II Soul, Nubya Garcia, Rosie Frater-Taylor and Leroy Burgess, along with First Word label mates Eric Lau, Children of Zeus, Allysha Joy and Darkhouse Family. Kaidi is also a revered DJ known for rocking parties globally, whilst his solo catalogue spans tons of EPs and releases for labels such as Dego's 2000 Black, Alex Nut's Eglo Records and Theo Parrish's Sound Signature.

This new album 'Don't Rush The Process' opens with an intro of sweet strings on 'Mystery Solved', ahead of lead title track, which is on a mid-tempo boom bap vibe, before switching to a more uptempo boogie vein, with the assistance of The Easy Access Orchestra, who also appear on 'We Chillin' Out', which is on a similar boogie tip. 'All I Need' is some gospel flavoured hip hop, whilst 'Knocknee Donkey' steps things up in a jazz-funk fashion. The second half of the album takes on a very Brazilian flavoured stance, with a set of delicious latin flavoured grooves on 'Any Flavour', 'Runnin' Tru', 'What A Dream' and 'Sooretama', the latter featuring the additional prowess of pianist Robert Mitchell. There's a touch more of the hip hop beats thrown in via 'Funky Fool' and the album closes out in inimitable Kaidi style with a short message: 'Mind Yourself'.

A hugely prolific artist, here he adds to an already impressive catalogue, a body of work that falls within the cracks of jazz and dance music, exemplifying modern British black brilliance; uncompromising, innovative, groundbreaking, intricately sophisticated and deeply funky. His fanbase expands on every release and it's no surprise that that fanbase includes a diverse set of peers such as Madlib ("ahead of his time"), Gilles Peterson ("a key part of an entire movement"), K15 ("a limitless source of inspiration") and Kyle Hall.

'Don't Rush The Process' is released on vinyl & digital worldwide, July 2022 via First Word Records.

First Word Records proudly present the second single from Above The Clouds (aka kidkanevil & Magic Manfred), taking on another underground hip hop classic, 'Change'.

'Change' was originally performed by Shadez of Brooklyn, produced by Da Beatminerz and most notably appeared on DJ Premier's legendary 'New York Reality Check 101' mix compilation back in 1997.

This 7" vinyl release follows on from last Summer's MF DOOM cover 'Arrow Root', which received strong support from the likes of Japan's DJ Koco and Philadelphia's DJ Jazzy Jeff.

This new instrumental reinterpretation also features cuts by Leicester-based turntablist, Jon1st - a DMC World Online Champion, as well as being a producer & musician in his own right, collaborating on music with a number of hip hop, D&B and electronic artists.

One of the original First Word roster, UK Producer/DJ and all-round laptop music geek kidkanevil has developed a distinctive and progressive sound over the years, gleefully exploring the beats and bleeps of the electronic music universe to international recognition. Leeds born, sound system bred and raised on a (un)healthy diet of video games and anime, his solo work inhabits the curious space between bass frequencies and otaku culture. But as a devoted teenage backpack rap nerd, somewhere in the back of kid's mind was a lingering desire to reconnect with his first love, hip hop.

Not long after moving to Berlin he joined a studio space in graffiti plastered Kreuzberg, where he met multi instrumentalist wizard Magic Manfred; a disciple of all things boogie, disco, funk and soul. Born and raised in Berlin, and currently a touring musician for many an act, Manfred's musical map joins the dots from piano lessons at four, to starting a band with his teenage friends, leading him to his true calling - the bass - via the club vibrations of his hometown, which introduced him to the world of DJing and production, and a stint studying in the explosive London jazz scene to finalise his Jedi training.

Bonding over their mutual love of '90s hip hop, a friendship and musical kinship developed, coupled with a desire to honour past eras but push things forward, Above The Clouds was born; named after their joint favourite DJ Premier beat, with a touch of irony regarding their basement based studio of a windowless variety.

kidkanevil explains further "We started the project with a few covers, just as a way to get warmed up and in a certain creative headspace, of which 'Change' by Shadez Of Brooklyn was one. We both loved DJ Premier's 'New York Reality Check 101' mix when we were teenagers and this track was a favourite. The elements really lent themselves to live interpretation, and as an instrumental there was space to bring some nice movement with the bass and stuff. Hopefully we found the balance between paying tribute and finding our own pocket. For the final seasoning we hit up the homie and turntable wizard Jon1st to recreate the cuts, of which he did an immaculate job of course.

The b-side 'Urgh' is one of our favourite beats we've made so far; the title is just how it makes us feel! We actually recorded the piano with two iphones as left and right and it sounded kinda cool so we went with it..."

'Change / Urgh' is released on limited 7" vinyl & digital platforms, April 24th 2026.

Marcos Valle is one of those artists you simply can’t overlook if you have even a passing interest in Brazilian music. Whether your taste leans toward bossa jazz, samba, psychedelic folk, or modern soul, Valle has surely recorded a great album for you.

By the late 1960s he had already released enough outstanding records to secure a place among the greatest Brazilian artists of all time, but fortunately his career didn’t stop there. He has continued recording fabulous albums over the following decades, right up to the present day.

This second album by Marcos Valle (1965) is one of the foundational works of bossa nova. In fact, the record includes one of the most widely heard and covered Brazilian songs in history: ‘Samba de Verão.’ In addition to his work as a composer—alongside his brother Paulo Sergio—Marcos Valle also begins to reveal himself here as a great singer, with a soft, almost fragile voice, while his acoustic guitar recreates the same intimacy of the nighttime atmosphere in which he composed most of the songs.

The arrangements were co-written with Eumir Deodato, with the participation of other renowned Brazilian musicians, and they surround Valle’s compositions with elegant string orchestrations, bossa rhythms, and jazzy touches of swing. Highlights include the sophisticated beauty of songs like ‘Preciso Aprender a Ser Só,’ the rhythmic 3/4 feel of tracks such as ‘Seu Encanto,’ and the powerful ‘Deus Brasileiro.’

First vinyl reissue in over 50 years!

Iconic Atlanta quintet SEVENDUST is back with its 15th studio album, ONE, set for release on May 1, 2026 via Napalm Records. The upcoming full-length LP forges ten simultaneously lean and gut-punching tracks out of gargantuan riffs, seismic grooves, and signature soul-stirring hooks, once again produced by Michael “Elvis” Baskette (Alter Bridge, Falling In Reverse, Mammoth). The group, comprised of Lajon Witherspoon (vocals), Clint Lowery (lead guitar, backing vocals), John Connolly (lead guitar, backing vocals), Vince Hornsby (bass), and Morgan Rose (drums), busts down the door with the first single “Is This The Real You”. Its swaggering fretwork alternately wallops and gallops in lockstep with a pummeling rhythm anchored by thunderous drums. The riff rolls and seethes, and the vocals swing from guttural growls into the embrace of a jazz-y chantable chorus.

A hummable lead ties the bridge together. Echoes of a tensely picked single-note set the tone for “Threshold.” Lajon’s delicate delivery gives way to a contentious distortion-boosted refrain. Then, there’s “Unbreakable,” which has all the makings of a clarion call for the collective and a future live staple. Strains of soft piano slip into the undertow of a towering hook punctuated by a promise, “We were meant to be unbreakable… even when we’re at our lowest lows. And if it gets too cold, I’ll never let you go.” The title track succinctly sums up the record as a whole. Bellowing out of a maelstrom of roaring distortion, Lajon’s voice reaches heavenly heights. For over three decades, SEVENDUST have made countless fans feel a part of something special. The group’s community isn’t passive. Members of the “7D Army” make a very active commitment to being part of this family – as evinced by sold-out shows worldwide and innumerable tattoos of the band’s logo and lyrics. Since 1994, the band has quietly built a legacy without parallel, encompassing sales of nearly eight million albums, a GRAMMY® Award nomination for “Best Metal Performance,” three Top 15 entries on the Billboard 200, hundreds of millions of streams, and the fierce loyalty of millions of listeners in every corner of the globe.