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Papa Records is excited to announce its latest release: two dancefloor ready tracks featuring the Diplomats Of Soul, Incognito, and Vanessa Haynes.
On Side A, you’ll find "Sweet Power Your Embrace," a remix of James Mason's iconic Jazz-Funk masterpiece by Terry Hunter & Emmaculate 7”.
Side B features a remix by Micky More & Andy Tee of "Never Gonna Fall In Love Again (Like I Fell In Love With You).

Includes a huge remake of James Mason’s iconic jazz-funk masterpiece – ‘Sweet Power Your Embrace’
A new 7” of soul classics by Diplomats of Soul with legendary UK band Incognito & Vanessa Haynes
Remixes courtesy of Chicago house legend Terry Hunter & Emmaculate, alongside sought after Italian production duo Micky More & Andy Tee.

Milton Wright's perfect deep Soul classic "Keep It Up" has always been a top shelf record, everything about it is almost flawless! Whether it's Milton's silky vocal delivery, the incessant guitar driven back beat or the total space Funk vibe of his omnipresent ARP-2600 synthesizer this record has it all. Originally released on TK Disco's more Soul and Funk orientated Alston label which was home to many legendary artists and records, this 1975 sunshine classic never fails to make people move. A classic rare groove indeed. "The Silence That You Keep" takes up side-B, a jazzy, flute driven love song that again features Milton's perfect voice and some fantastic arrangement. A real gem of a record, with the original 45 changing hands for over £100 a time in used condition.

This is the first time "Keep It Up" has been re-issued in it's original 45 rpm format with the original Alston label artwork. It's been re-mastered, re-pressed and made available again with the permission of TK Disco / Alston Records, Miami Florida, USA.

From the mind of Philadelphia legend Del Jones, the jazz-funk musician and social justice activist behind Positive Vibes and The Court Is Closed, comes a cult favorite finally getting its due. Originally released on CD in 1999, Dance of 'De Elder is a late-career epic where Jones' unmistakable vocals and undeniable funk deliver his signature blend of history, justice and Afrocentrism to reinforce his timeless command: 'DANCE // RESPECT YOURSELF.’

This 12-inch marks the track’s debut on wax and features five remixes for today’s dancefloors. Lil Dave lifts the song into an uptempo, deep and soulful house jam, Pheels flips the vocals over a heavy, psychedelic and percussive dub, Sweater adds bright, crescending synths that revive Jones’ chorus as a joyful decree, Universal Cave offer an extended, dubbed out, late night acid excursion, and Street Orchestra dials in a knocking MPC beat mix that could have fit right at home on the original release.

When we found a copy of the Dance Of ‘De Elder CD, the title track quickly became a Universal Cave crew anthem that we played every chance we got. Early doors, end of night, looped over party tracks, we couldn’t get enough of it and knew it had to get out to a wider audience. We hope this release helps get Jones’ music and message out to DJs and dancers worldwide.

Introducing the debut release from Unreleased Sex Desire, the exciting new label crafted by Funksonik. Presenting USD001 - an EP showcasing the collaborative brilliance of Funksonik, also known as Niccolò Turini and Enrico Dragoni. This four-track compilation, infused with elements of house, deep house, jazz, and soul, guarantees an unparalleled musical experience. Standout features include a mesmerizing remix by Glenn Underground and a soulful vocal mix by the talented Javonntte. Don't miss out on this exceptional EP!"

2025 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.A Little Bit Of Somethin' is a quietly majestic gem. Brimming with Guerrero's horizontal "loose grooves", these brief but innovative instrumentals demonstrate a rich variety and, as such, comprise an LP that is aptly titled. An enchanting start-to-finish listen, it was instantly regarded as essential upon release via Mo Wax in 2000. It has aged remarkably well.Throughout this inspired collection, simplicity is key. In deploying it, Guerrero presents a beautifully crafted melodic soundscape. The distinctive, mellifluous approach of his guitar style, blending Brazilian, Cuban, Mexican, soul and jazz motifs, is at once startlingly new and tantalisingly familiar. Set against unrushed percussion, the music releases a crystal clear stream of healing frequencies to create a fragile, hypnotic atmosphere.Each track clocks in at around three minutes and, with a lack of studio polish or commitment to traditional song structure, it's a wonder how this enigmatic record demands your attention. However, through its gentle dynamism and impressive playing, it does just that. Whilst resolutely low-key, this lo-fi aesthetic feels genuinely organic and remarkably personal, its powerful intimacy truly connects. It's what makes this album so beloved of those lucky enough to be already familiar with it. From Margaret Kilgallen's truly iconic cover artwork to the music contained within, it's all brilliantly effortless.Guerrero's musical ideas are consistently compelling throughout, making it impossible to select highlights. The album's laconic drift touches upon jazz-fusion workouts and slow-mo hip-hop drums, Tortoise-style experimental post-rock and cinematic sound textures. It's at once hazy, light and bouncy yet sombre and bluesy. The Latin soul of El Chicano blends with the breezy jazz of Grant Green. By employing guitars and drum machines to create a stripped down rhythmic tapestry of spellbinding, addictive songs, there are even traces of The Durutti Column. A little bit of country, a little bit of rock & roll. A Little Bit Of Somethin', indeed.

Ria Moran steps into a bold new chapter with Cubico, her debut solo album set for release in July 2025 via DeepMatter Records. A deeply personal and sonically rich project, Cubico sees Ria stepping forward as a producer and instrumentalist, blending R&B, neo-soul, and jazz with introspective songwriting that explores love, self-discovery, and emotional growth. The 12-track album moves fluidly between smooth R&B grooves and darker alternative tones, embodying the full spectrum of her artistry—sweet, emotional, moody, quirky, and fun. Ria made her long-awaited return in November 2024 with Take It or Leave It, a collaboration with Nubiyan Twist that showcased her evolving artistry and set the stage for Cubico and finding support from BBC Radio 6, Radio 1, Rinse Fm, Jazz FM, Worldwide FM, and more. Prior to this, her 2019 EP Moving into the Light gained widespread recognition from BBC Introducing, BBC Radio 6, and Worldwide FM, placing her among the UK’s most exciting contemporary soul voices. Her music sits at the juncture of forward-thinking UK soul music and nu-jazz, placing her alongside contemporaries including Ego Ella May, Yazmin Lacey and Cleo Sol, whilst also nodding to pioneers like Sade and Erykah Badu. Beyond her solo work, Ria has built an impressive career as a collaborator. Her contributions to Nubiyan Twist’s Freedom Fables earned a MOBO Award nomination, and she later appeared on Blue Note Records’ Blue Note Re:Imagined series, performing a BBC Radio 2 live session at the legendary Maida Vale Studios. She also worked with bassist Daniel Casimir on his acclaimed Boxed In album, joining a roster of UK jazz heavyweights including Nubya Garcia and Moses Boyd. Since 2019, she has been a touring vocalist with Gotts Street Park, sharing stages with Celeste, ENNY, and Pip Millett. With Cubico, Ria Moran is fully stepping into her own as an artist, delivering a debut album that is as raw as it is soulful, as vulnerable as it is empowering—a must-hear for fans of innovative and heartfelt music..

From the sunny shores of Miami, Florida, Fat Produce is leading the charge in today's soul-jazz scene. Their latest release features two classic tracks, "No Way" and "54-46 Was My Number," which are beautifully molded into Fat Produce's unique sound led by guitarist Addison Rifkind and drummer Michael Duffy. This limited 7" single offers a preview of what’s to come from this rising trio.

The influence of Boogaloo Joe Jones is undeniable, so incorporating his 1970s classic "No Way" into their repertoire was a fitting tribute for the band. With a deeper sound and an infectious groove, Fat Produce pays homage to this musical giant, guaranteed to get everyone moving on the dance floor. On the flip side, "54-46 Was My Number" is a reimagination of a Toots & The Maytals original, transformed into the instrumental style of a soul-jazz guitar trio. Rifkind's lyrical guitar work breathes new life into Toots' original vocal melodies, embodying the essence of soul-jazz and crossing genres to keep the spirit of feel-good music alive.

Both tracks were recorded on a Tascam 388 at Studio Del Sol in Boca Raton, Florida, by Travis Acker and mixed at The F-Spot HQ in Los Angeles by D.M.C. With upright bassist Nestor Del Prado joining the duo on this album, Fat Produce's forthcoming sophomore LP is set to be released in October 2025.

Strut present the first international release in over 30 years by legendary Afro-jazz group Oneness Of Juju with their new album Made Through Ritual on 11th July 2025.

In 1975, the late DJ / producer and jazz distributor Jimmy Gray and James “Plunky” Branch joined a musical revolution, founding Black Fire Records and releasing the label’s debut album, the classic African Rhythms by Oneness of Juju. This July, Plunky brings this important musical relationship full circle with Made Through Ritual, produced by Plunky’s son Jamiah “Fire” Branch and Jimmy’s son Jamal Gray.

The album takes a novel approach to beat culture. Working from demos created by Jamal using a selection of original jazz samples, Plunky took the tracks, replayed and re-interpreted the arrangements using live musicians. “The album explores the art of deconstruction and reconstruction in music - sampling, sequencing, and live improvisation merge with multi-track recording to craft intricate harmonies and arrangements,” explains Plunky. “The process became a ritualistic expression of creativity and transformation.”

The resulting album is a fascinating listen. Opening with the meditative soul chant ‘Share This Love’ voiced by regular Oneness vocalist Charlayne “Chyp” Green, the album opens out into a series of jazz vignettes including the title track, ‘In Due Time’ and ‘Free Spirit’. The powerful album closer, ‘Children Of The Drum’ celebrates black culture and legacy through the poetry of Roscoe Burnem.

Released on 1LP and 1CD with specially commissioned cover artwork by contemporary Ivorian artist Maxime Manga, Made Through Ritual represents an important new chapter in the Oneness story. The album will be supported by a selection of European tour dates during Autumn and Winter 2025.

Blue Night is the expanded edition of Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers recording released in 1985. Art Blakey led the Jazz Messengers
for 35 years, mentoring countless musicians and encouraging their growth into influential bandleaders. By 1984-85, his band included five
prodigious talents: Terence Blanchard (trumpet), Donald Harrison (alto/soprano sax), Jean Toussaint (tenor sax), Lonnie Plaxico (bass), and Mulgrew Miller (piano). Despite being 65, Blakey remained as vibrant as his young bandmates, inspiring and pushing them to develop their distinct musical voices. Blue Night showcases the Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers hard bop excellence, featuring originals by Blanchard, Harrison, Toussaint alongside the classic “Body An Soul”. The 2LP expanded edition of Blue Night features alternate takes of “Two Of Kind”, “Blue
Minor” and “Mr. Combinated”, includes liner notes by Scott Yanow and is available on vinyl for the first time.

Dom Salvador, der unscheinbare Pate der brasilianischen Soulmusik, hat mit seiner einzigartigen Fusion aus Jazz, Soul, Funk, Samba und brasilianischen Rhythmen unauslöschliche Spuren hinterlassen. Sein Vermächtnis wird mit Dom Salvador JIDO24 fortgesetzt, das von Adrian Younge und Ali Shaheed Muhammad produziert wurde. Das Album ehrt Salvadors bahnbrechenden Sound, setzt den lebendigen Dialog zwischen brasilianischer und amerikanischer Musik fort und lädt die Hörer ein, seinen reichen, bahnbrechenden Stil zu erleben.

Dom Salvador, der unscheinbare Pate der brasilianischen Soulmusik, hat mit seiner einzigartigen Fusion aus Jazz, Soul, Funk, Samba und brasilianischen Rhythmen unauslöschliche Spuren hinterlassen. Sein Vermächtnis wird mit Dom Salvador JIDO24 fortgesetzt, das von Adrian Younge und Ali Shaheed Muhammad produziert wurde. Das Album ehrt Salvadors bahnbrechenden Sound, setzt den lebendigen Dialog zwischen brasilianischer und amerikanischer Musik fort und lädt die Hörer ein, seinen reichen, bahnbrechenden Stil zu erleben.

Repress!

The funky, atmospheric, evocative and sometimes downright weird output of companies such as DeWolfe, Cavendish, Burton and the ubiquitous KPM have always been a guiding inspiration for ATA Records, as evidenced in the spooky soundtrack works of The Sorcerers, the big band brass of The Yorkshire Film & Television Orchestra and even in the soul-jazz of The Lewis Express ('Theme From The Watcher').

It only seemed natural for the team at ATA Records to scratch their own Library itch and so last year's "The Library Archive Vol. 1" was born. Recorded over a series of sessions in the Alladins cave of vintage recording equipment that is ATA studios, it featured many of the stalwart musicians from the label who can also be found recording with The Sorcerers, Work Money Death and The Lewis Express.

Garnering praise from Library aficionado Shawn Lee("Holy F*$K this sounds great! ATA really smash the classic British Library sound. 10 out of 10") and the Don of British Library Music himsel fAlan Hawkshaw, "The Library Archive Vol. 1" was very well received and so a follow up was inevitable. Recorded during the Autumn of 2020, "The Library Archive Vol. 2" still has the golden age of European Library music squarely in it's sights, but this time the focus is drawn more to the wonky organ work of Italian quartet I Marc 4.

Each track has been lovingly crafted with a keen ear for authenticity and the same eye for detail shown on 'The Library Archive Vol. 1', recorded on the same instruments and equipment and with the same techniques as the music that inspired it.

The Library Archive is a labour of love for the label with more volumes planned.

A deeply personal journey of an aspiring artist (Solene) navigating the harsh realities of Hollywood. An album that explores the emotional toll of being a hopeless romantic in a city full of predators and narcissists. A raw look at survival — and the trauma that follows. A narrative arc that takes the listener from LA to Las Vegas, only to find the same demons follow: addiction, vices, self-destruction, and the allure of illusion but ultimately setting on a journey of healing: picking oneself up, learning from pain, and choosing hope again and again. A love letter to Jazz, honoring Solene’s roots, with Hip Hop providing the fire and framework, produced by J. Rawls, to create something new: a genre-bending sound that’s soulful, futuristic, and fearless. Midnight Angel is not just an album — it’s a testimony of recovery, and of rebellion.

On 2018’s “Folk”, New Orleans songwriter and singer Sabine McCalla presents her own interpretation of grass-roots southern music. Combining elements of jazz, country blues, calypso, New Orleans R&B and Haitian creole compas, Sabine spins stories of heartbreak and hope through intimate arrangements and honest inflections. Recorded by Sam Doores (the Deslondes) and Duff Thompson (Mashed Potato Records), “Folk” exposes Sabine’s love of laments and folk spirituals, her penchant for simple truths and her interest in divining fundamental wisdom about love and loss from a small tangle of words. Commanding in its simplicity, with most songs sung a capella or with minimal guitar or vocal accompaniment, the EP’s five songs tell the stories of lost souls and broken hearts, embedded with painful truths that come to us calmly, the ones that are physically and psychically impossible to ignore.

Classic samples on 45. The Whatnauts, Help Is on the Way. Released as a single in 1981, this hard to find 45 is a certified Funk Disco Boogie classic! An infectious bass line over a head nodding drum groove, this is one for the steppers. Instantly recognisable as the sample source for Del La Soul’s “Ring Ring Ring (Ha Ha Hey)” Hip Hop classic, you might also recognise it for lending a riff or two for Fat Larry’s Band, “Act Like you Know”.

Isaac Hayes. Ike’s Mood. Released as the lead Single from the 1970 album “…To Be Continued” this Soul Jazz classic unwittingly became a huge source of inspiration for the sampling generation. Sampled almost 200 times, the brass section, drums and an unforgettable piano hook have been used to form the basis for classic releases by Biz Markie, Mary J. Blige, Nas and Massive Attack to name only a few.

Released in 1962, "Etta James Sings for Lovers" came out during a time when Etta James was Establishing herself as one of the premier vocalists in the music industry

The early 1960s were a fertile period for soul and R&B music, and James was at the forefront of this movement. It's about an album collection of romantic ballads and standards that showcase her powerful and emotive vocal abilities: known primarily for her blues and R&B hits, this album allows her to explore jazz standards and love ballads, demonstrating her ability to convey complex emotions and connect with listeners on a deep level. The album features accomplished session musicians who provide a sophisticated and polished sound: Over the years, "Etta James Sings for Lovers" has been appreciated as a classic example of a signifcant part of her discography, beloved by fans for its timeless quality. The arrangements feature lush orchestration, with strings and horns providing a rich backdrop for James' vocals and at the time of its release, the album was well-received by critics who praised James' vocal prowess and the sophisticated arrangements.

This album is one that is always going to be reissued until the end of time. It's pure, raw, inescapably good soul music that was popularised in recent years by Floating Points and his Melodies International label. The 1976 debut album by Chicago soul, rare-groove and jazz-funk fusionists Tomorrow's People was led by the Burton Brothers. This reissue comes on red vinyl for the first time and is full of a dynamic blend of styles-from the sax-driven disco-funk of 'Let's Get Down With The Beat' to the doo-wop-tinged 'Hurry Up Tomorrow' and the fiery 'Hurt Perversion'. The 20-minute title track, Open Soul, is a mesmerising space-soul journey which kicks off this highly sought after gem in style.

Back in an unmissable picture disc reissue: THE MOOD MOSAIC
Vol.1 – The Hashish Party, ready to win over collectors and vintage sound lovers. Originally released in 1997 by Yellowstone
Records, this iconic compilation blends jazz-funk, lounge, Latin
jazz, soul-jazz, and psychedelia into a truly unique musical
journey.

The tracklist features legendary artists like Serge Gainsbourg,
Michel Legrand, Gábor Szabó, George Shearing, and Shocking
Blue, delivering an irresistible mix of exotic grooves and retro
atmospheres. The picture disc format enhances the series’ visual
appeal, making every copy a true collector’s item

A true embodiment of Brazilian Boogie, this is the first official reissue of Brylho's album, founded in Rio de Janeiro in 1978 as Brylho da Cidade. The group was influenced by the Black Rio movement of Tim Maia, Cassiano, and others. Members included Arnaldo Brandão (vocals/bass), Paulo Roquette (guitar), Cláudio Zoli (guitar/vocals), Robério Rafael (drums), Bolão (percussion), and Ricardo Cristaldi (keyboard). Claudio Zoli stands out as an important funk artist of the 1980s, during a time when Pop Rock bands dominated the Brazilian music scene. This album features one of the biggest hits of 1983: the soulful reggae groove "Noite do Prazer." Often described as Rio de Janeiro's answer to George Benson's "Give Me the Night," it's a timeless classic that bridges funk, soul, and Brazilian grooves. On "Se Você For a Salvador," a sun-soaked, feel-good boogie track, younger generations have embraced a new term to describe the sound: Brazilian City Pop. The record also delivers dancefloor heat like the stomping "Jóia Rara," the vibrant soul-reggae fusion "Destrava Maria," the ahead-of-its- time rap-funk hybrid "Cheque Sem Fundo," and the electrifying samba-reggae "Pé de Guerra," rich with Bahian rhythms and energy. Closing out the album are two under-the-radar jazz-funk gems: "Meditando" and "171." Though often lumped into the boogie category, these tracks lean more toward the sleek 1980s jazz-funk sound, reminiscent of UK acts like Level 42.

Bobby Lyle is a keyboard legend from the fusion period of jazz in the mid to late 1970s. He was the pianist with Young Holt Unlimited and played with Jimi Hendricks, booked to go on the road with him just ahead of the untimely death. In 1974 he moved to Los Angeles and went on the road with Sly & The Family Stone, and then through dates with Ronnie Laws he met ex-Crusader Wayne Henderson who took him to Capitol Records where this, the first of three iconic albums was released in 1977. Bobby also became Wayne’s keyboard player of choice on his solo albums and productions through the remainder of the 70s and early 80s, contributing to the ‘At Home Production’ sound which defines these albums. “The Genie” was rediscovered in the ‘rare groove’ period of the 80s and is from which Bobby gets his nickname for the lightning pace and magic of his playing. This album is ultimate jazz funk from a period that gave us artists like Lonnie Liston Smith, Joe Sample and Bob James. Bobby still tours to this day with artists like George Benson and Anita Baker.

FCL presents Can We Try — A Deep House Anthem remixed and
remastered for 2025 including flips from Jimpster, Ben Hixon & Deetron

The ever-reliable FCL—aka Belgian house heroes San Soda and Red D—are back on the block with this remastered remix package of Can We Try, a soul-drenched dancefloor meditation that taps into the timeless tension of love and longing. With its raw vocal hooks (courtesy of Lady Linn), analog warmth, and stripped-down groove, the original cut is pure FCL: emotionally rich, effortlessly deep, and aimed straight at discerning dance floors.

Bringing fresh heat to the 2014 original, three heavyweights of house and techno step in for remix duties—each reworking the track in their own signature style:
Jimpster injects his trademark deep, jazzy finesse, flipping Can We Try into a swirling, soulful roller—lush pads, Moog flourishes, and enough swing to keep bodies moving and hearts locked in. Ben Hixon, the Dallas-based underground wizard, lays down a chunky, hardware- heavy rework full of crunchy drums and woozy funk. It's lo-fi soul with hi-fi intent. Deetron closes it out with a peak-time bomb—big room pressure, hypnotic bass, intense stabs and the kind of tension-release dynamics that only a true craftsman can deliver.
This limited-edition white label 12" vinyl is circulating in the wild—no frills, no hype, just a nod to those who know. Pressed loud and cut for the floor, it’s already making waves in the bags of tastemaker DJs from Berlin to Brooklyn. Can We Try is a reminder that dance music doesn’t need to shout to speak volumes. With this return, FCL prove they’ve still got their finger on the pulse—and their heart in the mix

LDF (Lello Di Franco) makes a powerful return to Skylax, this time teaming up with Detroit's own Javonntte. Following his stellar release with Gari Romalis, LDF delivers a release that is pure gold for fans of the original Detroit sound. If you appreciate the styles of Moodymann, Theo Parrish, or Omar S, this record is bound to resonate deeply. The EP opens with "Disco One (All Night Long)," a groove-heavy track that embodies the essence of classic Detroit house. It pulses with soulful basslines and infectious rhythms, setting a hypnotic tone that's perfect for late-night sessions. "Saved" ventures into Chicago acid territory, a tribute to the raw, driving energy of classic acid house. With its punchy 303 basslines and tight, snappy percussion, it channels the best of Chicago's underground with a fresh, modern edge. "After Midnight" offers a smooth, after-hours vibe, balancing deep, jazzy chords with a pulsating rhythm that keeps the energy simmering. It's a track that brings warmth and intimacy, ideal for closing sets or introspective moments. "Martha" is a lush, emotionally rich track that embodies LDF's Italian roots while staying grounded in Detroit's heritage. With warm melodies and a rolling bassline, it delivers a balance between soulful warmth and a classic dancefloor feel. "Love Anthem" is a heartfelt groove, merging lush pads and laid-back percussion with a sense of nostalgic euphoria. It's a track that brings people together, a true love letter to house music. "People From Mars" pays homage to Omar S, with its stripped-down, gritty approach. The track has a rough, analog feel, capturing the raw energy and spirit of Detroit's underground. Finally, "The Dirty Digital Show" closes the EP on an intense note, with a driving rhythm and futuristic soundscapes. As an Italian DJ and producer from Naples, LDF brings his decades of experience—starting from his early inspirations in house and techno in 1993—into this record. Also, as co-owner of Frole Records and co-founder of Basic Frame Distribution, his knowledge of the scene is profound, and it's reflected in each meticulously crafted track. This release is a testament to the timelessness and diversity of house music.

Artwork done by legendary french cult designer H5 (Daft Punk, Air, Etienne de Crecy …)

Underground Pacific is back with a new double vinyl compilation titled ‘The Only Good Wave is a Dead One’ that confirms, once again, its uncompromising taste for bold electronic music, psychedelic textures, and raw, electrified rock ‘n roll. This release brings together a varied group of artists, each of them adding something special to the journey.

The trip begins with “Excursions” by Gregory Moore, a piece that floats into a humid sonic world, between the nostalgic tones of vintage video game soundtracks, the Fourth World atmospheres of Jon Hassell, and the shimmering calm of ’90s Japanese ambient à la Takashi Kokubo.

Next comes Talee, the Rotterdam-based regular of the label, with “Makes Me Wonder”. Here, grunge-soaked vocals meet a tight dark disco groove, pierced by crystalline guitar chords that shimmer at the track’s heart. A song with its soul in the past and its feet in the club.

Label founder Cantor teams up once again with German duo New Hook on “Achtung! Achtung!”, an homage to the eponymous track by Italian producer Black Saagan. Fueled by vintage drum machines, punk-infused vocals, and melodies echoing the krautrock minimalism of Cluster, the track channels pure Cold War disco energy.

On “Scavengers”, Berlin based World Wild Web and Rasp Thorne deliver a pure mix of electro-rock noir – Suicide by way of David Lynch. Picture a never seen before episode of the series where Martin Rev and Alan Vega are playing live at the Roadhouse in Twin Peaks, while Laura Palmer slowly moves her head to the music, with a devilish smile on her face.

All the way from Grenoble to Berlin, H.L.M. deliver a dirty bass-driven anthem called ‘Fronde’. French spoken vocals spitfire over layers of distorted drones and hypnotic rhythms. The result is rough, hypnotic, and brings to mind the grooves of Death in Vegas.

New Hook return, this time solo, with ‘Unity’: a blend of groovy downtempo percussions, melancholic guitar riffs, and their signature brand of spoken word, a style that’s quickly become their sonic fingerprint.

Then it’s the turn of mexican-wave exponents Montessori featuring Vongold on “Ad Libitum”: a techy sunrise piece with soft pads, subtle build-ups, and an ecstatic sense of endlessness. After-party music for vast, open spaces.
Next up are SX2 from Ireland with their ‘Buttons’, offering a rolling tech-house banger laced with desert guitars. Psychedelic FX’s and whispered vocals drenched in delay slow the pace in a breakdown full of tension, preparing the floor to an euphoric release.

A dream from the pandemic era reappears: Cantor’s “Hannett’s Dream”, originally released in 2020 by Modular’s Project’s imprint ‘Nothing Is Real’ together with their own reworked version present also in two very limited vinyl-collector editions released by Underground Pacific. The introspection and hypnotic structure of the original cut here is replaced by a more stripped down arrangement, with a four-to-the-floor groove that is perfectly crafted for peak-time ignition.

Closing out the release is “Carissima” by the man behind iconic label Wonder Stories, Aimes – a Moroder-esque bassline and sensual vocals play on top of a warm groove that suddenly fractures into jazz-tinged, breakbeat mood, in the style of early Warp Records, just in time to get back into its disco-ish swing.

Contrary to what the title of this release might suggest, the wave isn’t dead at all. It’s well alive in the underground, reanimated by labels like Underground Pacific who are always ready to welcome artists who aren’t afraid to crash genres together and, above all, who are driven by the desire to make free-form, inspired pieces of music.

Mit ,Backstage" hat Jay-Jay bereits sein 15. Album veröffentlicht, und seine Inspiration wird ständig erneuert. Hier finden wir die grundlegenden Elemente seines musikalischen Universums: Jazz, Triphop, Pop und sogar einen Hauch von Easy Listening. Die erste Single ,How Long Do You Think We're Gonna Last?" bietet einen köstlichen Soul-Sound, der auf den ersten 14 Alben von Jay-Jay nicht zu hören war. Auf ,Backstage" singt Jay-Jay zum ersten Mal in seiner Diskografie einen Song komplett auf Französisch, der Rimbaud gewidmet ist. Der Text stammt von dem französischen Schriftsteller Renaud Santa Maria. Schließlich liefert Jay-Jay eine persönliche Version von ,Lujon", dem Kultsong zum 100. Geburtstag des Komponisten Henry Mancini. Aufgenommen in Stockholm im Winter 2024, wurde das Album in Paris von Alex Gopher (Air, Phoenix, Bob Sinclar...) gemastert. Für JJJ-Hardcore-Fans: In der Auflage von 1000 LPs gibt es 20 goldene Tickets zu gewinnen, die nach dem Zufallsprinzip verteilt werden. Die goldenen Tickets berechtigen zu einer VIP-Einladung zu einem beliebigen Jay-Jay Johanson-Konzert + Backstage-Treff mit Jay-Jay Johanson. Die CD-Version hat indes zwei Bonustracks aufzuweisen.

German/Canadian outfit ANiML is a collection of artists with long histories in electronic music. They founded the Stratasonic label as a way of working with friends, peers and legends without any genre restrictions. Following the ‘Star Walk’ album, which was a comprehensive deep dive into their sound with improvisation and off-the-cuff collisions of a wide array of moods and grooves, it now gets remixed by three underground mainstays.

Detroit's Seth Troxler is one of the most iconic characters in the scene. His left-of-centre sets and sounds have taken him to the world's most notorious clubs, festivals and labels over the last 20 years. His take on 'Breather' is a richly layered minimal groove with suspensory pads rising up through a cosmic sky. There is a mystic quality to the pads and tripped-out atmosphere that will hypnotise dance.

Next is the legendary Mathew Jonson, a notorious synth magician and live show maestro with a jazz schooling and countless seminal tracks to his name. His understanding of dance floor dynamics and meaningful melody runs deep and shines through his remix of 'Baby D.' It's a wonky, off-balance rhythm with shimmering melodies and soulful vocal snippets. Fractured percussive sounds, muffled horns and golden keys marble the mix, which is psychedelic and wonderfully woozy.

Brooklyn-based Galcher Lustwerk has been at the forefront for more than a decade with a signature blend of experimental house and stream-of-consciousness rap informed by funk, rhythm, and blues. His compelling take on 'Bruv' is powered by a bubbly, acidic low-end with shadowy vocal whispers bleeding in and out of the raw, ice-cold beats.

First Word Records are incredibly proud to bring you ‘I Swear To You’; the stunning sophomore album from Georgie Sweet.

Georgie is a singer / songwriter currently based in Brighton, with a uniquely smooth, soulful vocal tone.

Whilst working on her debut record (‘Misunderstood’), Georgie began a songwriting partnership with multi-instrumentalist Marc Rapson, who is on the boards throughout this project. The duo discovered a natural musical connection instantly, and began working on an abundance of beautiful new material shortly after the release of the first album; writing and creating at Rapson’s home in Hertfordshire at various sessions from 2021 onwards, culminating in this new 12-track album, ‘I Swear To You’.

Despite being one of the UK’s best kept secrets, Georgie’s already been pricking the ears of some highly-respected selectors. The first single from this record (‘Smaller / All That We Were’) received love from tastemakers such as BBC 6 Music's Gilles Peterson (“this one melts”), Jazz FM's Tony Minvielle ("supremely talented”) and Clash Magazine (“exudes soulful grace”), whilst previous material found itself in the crates of legendary luminaries like DJ Jazzy Jeff & DJ Spinna amongst others.

At the end of 2024, Georgie signed to Worldwide Award-winning independent London-based label, First Word Records; although she previously featured before on the label, via the title track of the highly-acclaimed 2021 sophomore album by Children of Zeus, 'Balance', along with Akemi Fox. Prior to this her debut album 'Misunderstood' dropped back in 2020 on Futuristica Music; an independent imprint run by Deborah Jordan & Simon S, on which Georgie also collaborated with acclaimed producers like K15 and Mecca:83.

An all-round creative soul, away from creating music, Georgie also works as an illustrator and animator. However, her lifelong love of music is unquestionable. She’s been a vocalist from a young age, initially working with her musical parents (a producer and professional singer respectively).

With a hugely diverse set of inspirations ranging from Stevie Wonder to Michael McDonald, Hiatus Kaiyote to Chappell Roan, Mac Miller to Sampha, and George Duke to EW&F, Georgie's respect, love and admiration for a wide range of music is clear; from jazz to soul to pop to hip hop.

Rodina is the project of singer-songwriter Aoife Hearty and partner Joe Tatton, keys-player & co-writer from The New Mastersounds and leader of the Joe Tatton Trio. On Good Company, their first new album in 6 years, the two are joined by other great musicians including guitarist Lucas De Mulder, drummer Luke Flowers, The Filthy Six horns, and members of The Haggis Horns, among others.

Like their previous records there is a strong acid jazz slant to many of the songs, whether interpreted through a modern soul lens such as in opener "Simple Pleasures" or swaying more towards cosmic jazz-funk such as "We Go Out Of Our Way" or "Trust In This Life", which were the first singles lifted from the album.

Throw in some hippy Americana and even a tinge of Gospel and you end up with catchy songs that include both uptempo earworms like the super charged foot stomper "Good People" or the festival anthemic "Inspiration" and some beautiful chilled moments such as "All Over The Sky" and "Flowers".

Recorded at their small countryside recording studio in the Peak District this is the fourth vinyl produced at their studio after The New Mastersounds' Old School and Joe Tatton Trio's Galactico.

“We go through life. We shed our skins. We become ourselves.”

This line from Patti Smith was going round and round Felix Manuel’s head as he gradually constructed Under Tangled Silence, his first album in six years and a record of a literal creative rebirth. Felix originally began it in earnest in 2020 Covid lockdown, but a catastrophic hard-drive meltdown destroyed almost all his work and sent him close to psychic collapse himself. However, ultimately this pushed him to rebuild from scratch and in so doing to confront and reassess every part of his musical and psychological processes.

The result is utterly extraordinary. Felix was a child prodigy as an instrumentalist and his advanced musicality has always been prominent in his music, but here he has put himself front and centre as pianist, harpist and more. And this sense of exposure as a performer interweaves with an unflinching emotional openness too. Where sometimes electronic production as advanced as this can use intellect and techniques as shields from soul-baring, this is the sound of someone who can boldly say “I feel things, I cry all the time, and I'm not afraid to say it or show it in the music.”

But this doesn’t mean there’s a move away from the soundsystems and dancefloors where Felix made his name as a uniquely innovative vinyl DJ. Even just in the opening track “A Tune for Us”, minimalist piano ripples and jazz drumming flow into the breaks of vintage jungle – and as the structure of the LP unfolds, a deep ambient meditation like “Hold” can sit very naturally in between the futurist dancehall of “L’Ancienne” and the high-definition acid house mind movie of “Galaxy in Silence”. In fact, as with the hands-on musicianship, that gutsy big-speaker electronic impact is delivered with more certainty, more expertise, more personal flourishes than ever. And all of those elements are more integrated than ever too: the sound of a total musical personality emerging afresh is truly something to behold. An already remarkable talent has been refreshed, reborn and is making the music of his life.

This album is probably one of the most outstanding jazz discoveries of this year and highlights the significance of earlyJjazz-Rock recordings from East Germany in the late 60s to the early 1970s.
The highly talented organist Ulrich Gumpert, along with top musicians like drummer Günter "Baby" Sommer, bassist Gert Lübke, and guitarist Günter Dobrowolsky, formed a powerful independent quartet as well the rhythm section within the Klaus Lenz Orchestra and later of the group SOK. Their modern, soulful, and funky Jazz-Rock compositions gained popularity and were even promoted by the
East Berlin youth radio. Guest artists like the famous Günther Fischer contributed to their first recordings. This retrospective LP celebrates a groundbreaking yet underappreciated era in East German Jazz and Rock history.

REPRESS

New Delhi-based Peter Cat Recording Co. will release their debut album, ‘Bismillah’ on June 14, 2019 via French independent label Panache Records. Debut UK live shows are soon also to be announced by the band.


Peter Cat Recording Co. could almost have a question mark on the end of its name. Not least as founder & frontman Suryakant Sawhney refuses to explain where that name really comes from or what it means (perhaps a reference to the Tokyo jazz club owned by Haruki Murakami), but also since the very existence of the band itself raises a raft of questions. When was the last time we fell for an indie rock band for the right reasons? Not because the band in question nostalgically imitate a perceived ‘golden age’ but because they innately embody the fundamentals of such music: fantasy, sincerity and the freedom to make music without rules or career aspi- rations. And when was the last time this kind of band sounded like Sinatra, Barry White, the sweetest doo-wop, humid fanfares and a psychedelic wedding band, all at once? And all of this coming from India?
In truth, the story of Peter Cat Recording Co. was written within the triangle of San Francisco, Delhi and Paris.
In the first of these cities, Sawhney (a native of Delhi) pitched up to study film-making. More distracted by the city’s peaking live scene of the early noughties, this is where he started to make music and to sketch out an idea for the band.“
The people I lived with supported my idea of writing music, they introduced me to great mu-
sic. There used to be a great garage scene in San Francisco, like The Oh Sees also Ty Seagall, Mikal Conin, all those bands. This is a world I had never seen in my entire life. A big inspiration from San Francisco was that you could record yourself. You don’t need to be in a studio and spend a lot of money to make an album. You can do it”.


At the end of the 2000s, Suryakant returned home to New Delhi, and started his band for real, more or less the same band that plays today. “I wasn’t so concerned about will we be performing, will we be the greatest band, will we be trendy. I just wanted to make something that was consequential and important for us, I think. Something which would last, something people could listen to and be like « this is life changing ». It was for the sake of beauty”.


For the first few years and in India alone, this is exactly what Peter Cat Recording Co. did, in total indifference to the rest of the world. This was until young Parisian label Panache stumbled across the band online via Vice’s THUMP subsidiary, stupefied by the band’s cosmic video for seven-minutes-and-counting track, ‘Love De- mons’. And so in spring of 2018, ‘Portrait Of A Time: 2010-2016’ was released on Panache - making the first international release from Peter Cat Recording Co., bizarrely enough, an anthology of re-mastered, hidden gems from the band’s ramshackle back catalogue, previously recorded in Suryakant’s own living room. With Peter Cat’s off-kilter charm hitherto unheard of beyond the fringes of India, the release provided a gateway op-
Whilst the title track found its way onto Tracks Of The Year lists at the Guardian & NME, it was tricky for new PCRC enthusiasts to get a firm grip on the startling push/pull between the immediate, uncanny music this release gathered, and the cultural backdrop of New Delhi at which it was so startlingly at odds.


Opportunity for a wider fanbase to fall in love with their cloud-like, drunken songs for the first time.
If discovering your favourite new band via a ‘Best Of’ feels a curious premise, then ‘Bismillah’ does more than hint towards the promise of Peter Cat Recording Co’s future. Blending gypsy jazz, psychedelic cabaret, space disco, bossa supernova, Bollywood and uneasy listening with kaleidoscopic ease, in many senses, the band’s knack hasn’t altered. Always different, paradoxical, unpredictable yet somehow familiar. The new album opens to the strains of bird chatter, the whisper of a city’s soundscape and the first few notes from an instrument which seem to be calling us to the departure lounge, a fore-shadow of the flight ‘Bismillah’ launches its listener
on. Suryakant sings with the detached, rueful elegance of Sinatra marooned on a desert island, whilst his band create small space-time capsules which navigate their way through genres and eras – including the future – and between nostalgia and eccentricity.


Peter Cat recently trailed ‘Bismillah’ with the release of ‘Floated By’, an appositely titled musing on failure & missed opportunities, punctuated by the fulsome brass section which weaves through so much of the album.


The languid, blue quality to the track is offset by the attendant music video, created with footage shot, implau- sibly enough, at Suryakant’s own marriage ceremony (needless to say, the wedding band hired for the day was of course, Peter Cat Recording Co.) Sawhney dryly notes; “Hopefully it’s not a many-a-times-in-a-lifetime event. You can’t fake that set, those people actually having a good time, being really emotional and intense.” ‘Bismillah’’s colour-drenched album cover also captures Suryakant’s father-in-law making his wedding toast on that same day - a nod back towards the cover of ‘Portrait Of A Time’, itself a black & white image taken at the wedding ceremony of Suryakant’s own father.


A stumbling but gracious collection of songs rooted in a kind of drunken soul music, the melancholy nature of some of the songs on ‘Bismillah’ renders them almost liquid, before they develop into more dance-like shapes. Suryakant’s rangy voice swoops from the falsetto glide of ‘I’m This’ to the beat-up baritone blown along by the warm breeze of ‘Soulless Friends’. The elliptical structure of album opener ‘Where The Money Flows’ also al-
lows for the use of brief bursts of autotune effect on his vocal without feeling incongruous, whilst the desultory lyrics of ‘Heera’ (a Hindi word for diamond) - sharing something with the Morricone school of grand storytelling - have an emotional weight that would impress even coming from a native English speaker. Perhaps the most gleefully unpredictable moment on ‘Bismillah’ comes with the illusory, vocal loops on the intro to ‘Memory Box’, errupting into 8 exhilarating minutes worth of unbridled, string-backed disco joy. A cat might have nine lives, but on ‘Bismillah’ and beyond, Peter Cat Recording Co. are hinting towards an un- knowable multitude of dimensions. Throw them all together, and it equates less to a listening experience and more to an out-of-body experience.


Peter Cat Recording Co. are: Suryakant Sawhney (vocals/guitar/organ), Dhruv Bhola (bass), Kartik S Pillai (organ/guitar/electronics), Rohit Gupta (horns), Karan Singh (drums)

Kai Alce's NDATL Muzik is one of our favourites for deep house so imagine our delight to learn that it now branches out with a new sub-label, Nutria Sounds. Its debut release is a gem from Shaka with Eve's soulful vocals capturing the essence of Paris through organic textures and sultry melodies. The main vocal mix has jazzy chords and a carefree vibe, while 'Unbleached' is a more driving deep house cut with dancing keys and low end heft. The ever-on form Chicagoan Vick Lavender also steps up with a signature jazz-infused remix that is refined yet ready to work the 'floor. This is a fine debut for Nutria Sounds, which seems like it is going to be another vital outlet for heartfelt and classy house.

SofaTalk is an Italian producer known for his eclectic and genre-blending approach to electronic music. Drawing inspiration from the global underground, nu-jazz, and his roots in Italy, his sound is rich, experimental, and difficult to categorize, yet always engaging. Alongside running his label Cognitiva Records and curating events and radio shows, he continues to refine his style through remixes and collaborations.

His latest project, *The Soul's Code*, released via Oathcreations, is an 8-track album that further explores his unconventional sound. Featuring collaborations with Veezo and Zopelar, the album fuses house, funk, broken beat, dub, and jazz in imaginative ways. Tracks like "Dub Lush" and "The Truth" highlight SofaTalk's ability to craft deeply textured productions, while "Paradiddle," "Complex Journey," and "Around" showcase his playful, lo-fi sensibilities and love for rhythmic experimentation. The album closes with "Magpie Rules," a dreamy, breakbeat-driven finale that captures the surreal energy of the entire release. With support from artists like Fred P, Carista, and Bradley Zero, *The Soul's Code* is another bold step in SofaTalk's constantly evolving musical journey.

NON EXCL LP , Black Vinyl

The Soulful Trio, a band from Barcelona made up of three musicians with an international background (Spain, Holland, Argentina, USA, France) after playing their repertoire live in different venues for several months, with their songs well shot, have decided to record "Said & Done", in one of the best studios of Barcelona, nine original compositions of Soul-Jazz with derivations towards funk and blues.

Music reminiscent of the classics of the Hammond B3 organ trio such as Jimmy Smith, Jack McDuff, Lonnie Smith, Richard “Groove” Holmes or Big John Patton, reinventing the sound and bringing it closer to today with their vibrant fusion of genres full of energy.

Enjoy this instrumental Soul-Jazz album with these young veterans Homero Tolosa (drums), Pablo Sánchez (guitar) and Lucas Herrera Fernández (Hammond B3) in all their splendor with their respective instruments including the exciting & dynamic sounds of the Hammond B3, the great electric guitar groove of solos and huge variety of rhythms, playing a music that is always intense and made from their hearts.

Mit "Everybody Loves the Sunshine" (1976) vermischt Roy Ayers nahtlos die Genres Soul, Funk & Jazz und erschafft einen zeitlosen Sound, der Musiker und DJs auf der ganzen Welt noch immer beeinflusst, mit dem Vibraphon als zentrales Instrument, ein Ansatz, der Ayers einzigartigen Stil definiert. Im Jahr 1976 veröffentlichte der legendäre Musiker und Komponist Roy Ayers mit ELTS eines der bedeutesten Alben seiner Karriere. Dieses Album festigte nicht nur Ayers' Stellung als Schlüsselfigur in der Welt des Jazz, sondern markierte auch einen Meilenstein in der Soulmusik und im zeitgenössischen Jazz-Funk. Es zeichnet sich durch eine raffinierte Mischung aus unwiderstehlichen Grooves, sanften Melodien und einem einzigartigen Sound aus, der über die Jahre hinweg nicht verblaaste und für mehrere Generationen von Musikern und Hörern zu einer Referenz wurde. Mitte der 70er Jahre hatte sich Ayers bereits mit seiner Band Roy Ayers Ubiquity und seinem unverwechselbaren Einsatz des Vibraphons, das zu seinem persönlichen Markenzeichen wurde, einen Namen gemacht. Und mit ELTS wagte sich Ayers an einen noch zugänglicheren Sound, auch als Reaktion auf den Aufstieg von Disco und das wachsende Interesse an Musik afro-amerikanischer Prägung überhaupt. In den zehn Tracks des Albums schafft Ayers eine Klangatmosphäre, die sowohl die Wärme des Sommers als auch die Raffinesse des Jazz jener Zeit heraufbeschwört, alles vor dem Hintergrund des modernen Soul. Produziert von Ayers selbst zusammen mit seinem Engineer und Freund David R. Williams zeichnet sich ELTS durch den wunderbaren Klang des Fender Rhodes Pianos von Phillip Woo sowie die kraftvolle Energie der restlichen Band aus, wodurch eine unverwechselbare Authentizität und Frische erreicht wird. Zu den bekanntesten Songs gehören der Titeltrack, "The Golden Rod" und "The Third Eye", die schnell zu Klassikern des Jazz-Funk und Soul wurden. Dieses Album ist für Roy Ayers' Karriere von entscheidender Bedeutung, da es seine Fähigkeit unter Beweis stellt, in einer sich ständig verändernden Musikindustrie relevant und kreativ zu bleiben. Im Laufe der Jahre wurde "Everybody Loves the Sunshine" zu einem Kultalbum, das häufig in DJ-Sets von Künstlern wie Gilles Peterson, Theo Parrish und Lefto gespielt Verwendung findet. Der Sommer-Soul-Klassiker jetzt wieder auf klassischem schwarzem 180g-Vinyl!

KITCHEN FUNK: The Groove Legacy of Funk, Hip-Hop, and House
Founded in 1999 in Lorient by Tabasko and Ramirez, key figures in the Breton underground scene, KITCHEN FUNK fuses hip-hop, soul, funk, acid jazz, and house music into a unique sonic universe. Combining punchy rhythms with captivating grooves, the duo made a name for itself in the 2000s, marked by the excitement of clubs and radio stations.

"LETUGO": A Forgotten Treasure Finally Rediscovered
Among their notable collaborations, "LETUGO," recorded with Karl the Voice, embodies the very essence of KITCHEN FUNK. This powerful track, blending funky vibes and soulful energy, didn't receive the promotion it deserved upon its release.

25 years later, the story takes an unexpected turn. After rediscovering local archives, RAMIREZ and JULIEN LO BONO decided to reissue "LETUGO" on vinyl to mark the project's anniversary. The initiative sparked immediate interest: Breton radio stations picked it up, and the record finally found its audience, proving that KITCHEN FUNK's groove is timeless.

A resounding success with "PUSSY CALL"
Before this resurgence, KITCHEN FUNK had made a lasting impression with "PUSSY CALL", a hit that received critical acclaim on Europe 2, NRJ, and RADIO FG. This success allowed the duo to sign with CHRYSALIS PUBLISHING and then 909 RECORDZ (WARNER FRANCE), confirming their place in the French music scene.

A promising future
And this is just the beginning... Boosted by this renewed interest, KITCHEN FUNK is preparing new projects, supported by Jean Jérôme, a key player in the success of "PUSSY CALL." A return to the stage is in the works, ready to rekindle the flame of funk, hip-hop, and house music for a new generation of enthusiasts.

Ladies & gentlemen - get ready for something truly special: Scotland"s best jazz musicians meet one of the best and most influential bands from Scotland! The Colin Steele Quartet play the music of The Blue Nile, undisputed masters of Sophisti-Pop. Especially their second album "Hats" (1989) is regarded as an all-time classic masterpiece. The beautiful and atmospheric, often synth-driven songs of The Blue Nile get the deluxe jazz treatment in exciting new arrangements. All-time classics like "Easter Parade", "Heatwave" and "Let"s Go Out Tonight" shine in bright new shades and colours, and get transformed into something unique by Colin Steele"s very own trumpet style. The album perfectly captures and even enhances the late-night moods and aural landscapes of The Blue Nile"s music, while also adding some unexpected, and, yes, even slightly funky turns to songs like "Body & Soul" and "Headlights On The Parade". Colin Steele"s smooth and emotive trumpet caresses and lifts these beautiful songs to new heights.

Mit “Stop And Listen” gelang dem Hammond-B3-Organisten Baby Face Willette 1961 ein Album, das in keiner Soul-Jazz-Sammlung fehlen sollte. Zumal es auch Willettes letzte und beste Aufnahme für Blue Note war. Kritiker nennen diesen Klassiker oft in einem Atemzug mit Grant Greens Blue-Note-Debüt “Grant’s First Stand”, das kurz zuvor mit exakt der gleichen Besetzung eingespielt worden war.

Breakbeat Paradise Recordings is back with another funky edition of their Toxic Funk series – this time welcoming back a true Nu Funk legend Umbo who has cocked up 2 massive funky soul nuggets. Umbo has been around since the early Nu Funk days with releases on labels like Good Groove Records & Timewarp under his belt as well as featuring on the Christmas Bootleg Bells Vol. 4 right here on BBP. The grooves and breaks are center stage on both cuts of this Toxic Funk Vol. 18 - with No Sugar taking on a classic soul jam while the Saoco Root goes all in on jazz meets the funky drummer and catchy Beastie rhymes. The timeless sounds of both these funky bangers are sure fit in nicely in any funky DJ crate. BBP is on point once again delivering you the funky beats and breaks on the planet.

The emblematic Chilean producer Camilo Gil tells a story of life through ink and sound. In its original version, the creativity between bass, MPC, garage influences, and Break Deep elements gives us a unique work.
In the alternate version, the legendary MARK AMBROSE takes us on a journey through space, with captivating voices, tones, and his signature sound.

On the B-side, the remix by Detroit legend GARI ROMALIS showcases the soulful, emotional side of the Motor City, featuring pianos and a hypnotic bassline that brings us closer to the 313. Closing the EP is the energetic deep jazzy minimal style of AUDIO WERNER, a track designed for the dancefloor, with a playful swing between vocals and bass, complemented by a hypnotic string that makes us want to dance at any moment.

Madrid-based ensemble Sinouj fuses the deep-rooted traditions of the Mediterranean with the driving force of contemporary jazz, funk, rock and West African grooves. Their open-door vision draws in musicians from across the spectrum – from flamenco and Iranian classical music to soul and cutting-edge jazz – creating a dynamic, ever-evolving sound that is both global and unmistakably their own.

Their latest release shines a spotlight on 'Hak Dellali', a traditional North African tune that first rose to fame in the 1980s thanks to Tunisian star Hedi Habbouba and later Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi. In Sinouj's hands, this classic song becomes a transformative ritual, pulsing with the festive sway of Moroccan chaabi rhythm, Tuareg rock grit and the spontaneous spark of jazz. Over the years, it has consistently ignited the band's concerts into ecstatic celebration.

Backed with a psych-tinged and club-oriented remix by Berlin's Voodoocuts, with 'Hak Dellali' Sinouj continue to blur lines between genres and geographies, offering a fresh take on tradition.