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Amelia Cuni - Melopea LP

Black Truffle is pleased to announce Melopea, presenting two new pieces highlighting the incredible voice of Amelia Cuni (1958-2024), the great Italian singer, based in Berlin in later life, whose mastery of the classical Indian dhrupad developed in parallel with a commitment to contemporary experimental approaches. After two stunning archival releases documenting traditional dhrupad performances in India in the 1990s (BT079 and BT092), the two side-long pieces here embody the freedom with which Cuni explored new contexts and settings for her singing.

Both make use of a long recording of Cuni singing the pentatonic Raag Bhoop (or Bhopali) made in 2012 by her partner Werner Durand in Berlin. ‘Melopea’ began from Cuni and Durand’s superimposition of this recording with violinist Silvia Tarozzi and cellist Deborah Walker’s performance of Éliane Radigue’s ‘Occam River II’. Inspired by the beauty of this chance encounter (and other experiments with non-synchronous collaboration during the pandemic years), Tarozzi and Walker recorded independently, without hearing Cuni’s voice but ‘having her present in memory’. Tarozzi and Walker’s bowed strings places Cuni’s magisterial performance in a new context, emphasising, as Radigue commented upon hearing the initial layering of her piece with Cuni’s voice, a shared ‘searching toward the partials, overtones, these natural constituents of acoustical sounds in their richness’. Beginning with whispered bowed harmonics, the violin and cello swap the stability of dhrupad’s traditional tanpura drone for a slowly evolving, uneasy web of harmonic interactions recalling some of Harley Gaber’s work, sometimes sitting on dissonances for long periods or allowing changing interference patterns to come to the fore. Primarily focusing on her lower register, Cuni’s performance demonstrates her mastery of microtonal pitch subtleties, elegant sweeping glissandi and meditatively unhurried pacing.

The continuation of the same recording by Cuni forms the foundation of ‘Bhoop-Murchana’, with Anthea Caddy on cello and Werner Durand on soprano saxophone. In contrast to the randomised layering of the first piece, here Durand and Caddy have carefully selected pitches based on the raag Cuni sings, using the ‘Murchana’ form, which uses the constituent notes of the raag as tonics of new raags, retaining the same interval structure. Both players who have developed tones of striking depth and harmonic purity on their instruments, Caddy and Durand’s patient long tones are simultaneously rigorously grounded in the physical properties of sound and possessed of an immaterial, floating quality. Combined with Cuni’s voice and, near the piece’s end, her contributions on hammered and plucked tanpura, the effect borders on miraculous. To surrender to this music is like slipping into an onsen pool, feeling the instantaneous release of every tension. Accompanied by liner notes from Durand, Tarozzi and Walker, Melopea is both a moving tribute to the profound art of Amelia Cuni and, for the uninitiated, a perfect introduction to it.

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23,49
MILES DAVIS - IN A SILENT WAY LP

Shhh. The command to be quiet is not just part of the title of one of the two sprawling compositions on this pioneering album. It's also an apt metaphor for the relaxed hypnotism and spaced-out atmosphere that define In a Silent Way, a record that pushes the boundaries of studio possibilities, artist-producer relationships, and rock-jazz chasms. Recognized as Miles Davis' first full-on fusion effort and part of his "electric" era, the 1969 landmark claims a Who's Who line-up that sends the music into an ethereal stratosphere.

Mastered from the original master tapes and pressed at RTI, this unsurpassed 180g LP edition lifts the veil on the cutting-edge assembly process that created the pair of lengthy suites. Helmed by three electric instruments, the bevelled compositions melt away all preconceived notions of "jazz," ˜rock," and "ambience," following a loose theory Davis dubbed "New Directions."

Few albums are so delicately textured. And on Mobile Fidelity's meticulous reissue, such sulcate elements pour over ink-black backgrounds on a canyon-wide soundstage. In particular, Tony Williams' inventive percussive touch – he causes the cymbals to shimmer as a pieces of silver tend to do when exposed to sunlight – is broadcast with lifelike three-dimensional qualities, the panoramic view extending to Davis' nocturnal trumpet, Wayne Shorter's ribbon-unfurling saxophone, Dave Holland's extrapolative bass, and the mosaic of keys.

If the record's only accomplishment is its introduction of guitarist John McLaughlin to the world, it alone would be enough. Yet In a Silent Way continues to bedazzle, puzzle, and inspire for myriad reasons – not the least of which is the seemingly telepathic communicative methods employed by the group's members. The line-up is great on paper, but, if it's even possible, the octet sounds even better in practice, with the instruments and tonalities conjoining in avant-garde communion like hyper-sensitive tentacles exploring the stippled landscapes of an undiscovered planet.

Diverting from expectation, tubular grooves twist, turn, and spin, sometimes piling atop of each other, always shying away from structure and melody. Ellipsoidal solos provide hesitant guidance, ranging from Chick Corea's Fender Rhodes phrases to Davis' decorative spirals. And as colour is the primary unit of currency on Davis' Sketches of Spain, laid-back episodes, geometric spaces, and quiet sensuality reign here, with the set's maverick reputation attained via musings on solitude rather than explosions of noise.


Controversial for the period, the heavily edited production of In a Silent Way blew open the once-locked doors on what producer's could attempt – and how artists could assist them. Knitted together as one would construct a cross-hatched quilt, songs contain grafts of repeat passages that provide unifying structure and experimental continuity. What a statement.

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52,52
Oye Manny - Living Water

Singaporean label Darker Than Wax brings us to Texas with a fresh 12” from Houston-born producer Oye Manny. Following his release on Salon Recordings, Oye Manny has carved out a lane defined by deep rhythms, Latin roots, and pure authenticity, an ethos he continues to distill into sound on his new record Living Water. Drawing on his Colombian roots and keenly focused on what makes dancers move, Manny puts percussion at the forefront on Living Water – from the chord driven house stompers ‘Malta Sip’ and ‘Palmira’ on the A side, to the darker club tones of ‘Visaje’ and the slick musicality of ‘Youthful Expression ‘ on the flip, drums play a starring role. Completing the package is a remix from Singapore-based producer and Darker Than Wax core member Dexter Colt, providing a deeper, Chicago-inspired take on ‘Malta Sip’.

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12,56
Nina Maia - Inteira (Deluxe Edition) LP

It began with a cassette tape entitled 'Pleased To Meet You' gifted to us at Sessa's Fasching, Stockholm show by Yann Dardenne, the multi-tasking tour manager/sound engineer/producer/merch stall worker and co-owner of Seloki Records. On first listen, the selection of underground Brazilian artists from the Seloki's roster was superb, however, one song stopped us in our tracks. The hauntingly captivating ' GOSTO MEIO DOCE' by Nina Maia and Francisca Barreto, gave us a taste of Nina's ethereal, addictive voice and we knew we needed to hear more. Born in Minas Gerais but now based in Sao Paulo, the 22-year-old has already packed a lot into a relatively short space of time. The singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer, has already collaborated on the soundtracks for six Brazilian feature films, including a track with the vocalists Maria Gadu, Iza, and Liniker. But things enter a new exciting era with this, her remarkable debut album entitled 'INTEIRA', which translates to English as 'whole'.

As much inspired by Billie Eilish and Rosalia, as Milton Nascimento and Toninho Horta and not sounding like other records coming out of Brazil, 'INTEIRA' is unique. Though rich in its Brazilian heritage, inspired by samba cancao, MPB, and the Clube da Esquina movement, it also channels influence from bands such as Portishead and Massive Attack, mixed with jazz, contemporary leftfield and electronic pop artists. Musically, it is not easily pigeonholed, with beautiful, well-crafted songs, sophisticated arrangements, eloquent vocals and intimate lyrics. Each track reflects different moments and stories from Nina's youth but with dialogues, feelings, and questions that span generations and resonate with all. This ambitious debut album is Nina's vision and sound, expressing herself without constraints and making music with her friends. Featuring a lineup of Thalin (drums), Valentim Frateschi (bass), Francisca Barreto (cello and vocals), Thales Hashiguti (viola and violin), Yann Dardenne (acoustic guitar and co-producer) and Nina on piano, Rhodes, guitar and production. The album led to a nomination in Paulista Association of Art Critics (APCA) award's 'Breakthrough Artist' category, who also listed 'INTEIRA' as one of the 50 best albums of 2024.

It also received support from Bandcamp Weekly and Jamz Supernova on BBC 6 Music. Released digitally by Seloki Records in Brazil in 2024, Mr Bongo in partnership with Seloki Records now present this new, deluxe worldwide edition that includes four additional songs. These comprise the brand-new exquisite 'MANHA', as well as an original twist on Vinicius de Moraes' classic 'Serenata Do Adeus'. Elsewhere you'll find a live recording showcasing Nina's remarkable energy on stage courtesy of 'DE DENTRO' and 'GOSTO MEIO DOCE' with the amazing musician/vocalist Francisca Barreto, where our whole story began. Here at Mr Bongo, we are honoured to release music by such a remarkable new talent - one whose musical trajectory is most certainly about to soar.

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25,17
Nat Birchall & The 18th Parallel - Let Peace Reign

Fruits Records proudly presents ‘Let Peace Reign’, the brand new instrumental single by Nat Birchall and The 18th Parallel.

Hailed by Gilles Peterson as ‘one of the best musicians in the UK’, jazz and reggae saxophonist Nat Birchall has grabbed listeners attention with his soulful sound and inspirational spiritual music. He has produced some of the finest vintage roots reggae instrumentals including majestic works with Vin Gordon and Al Breadwinners. His ethereal tone reminiscent of reggae giant Cedric ‘Im’ Brooks (Light of Saba) is the perfect match to The 18th Parallel raw and heavy sound.

Recorded fully live on 2-inch tape by the Swiss rhythm section, the session captures the raw, authentic energy of roots reggae at its purest. With warm, organic tones and a timeless feel, ‘Let Peace Reign’ not only pays homage to the greatest days of instrumental music and to the golden era of reggae recording, but also send a much needed message to a troubled world: Let Peace Reign. Pressed with care on 7-inch vinyl, with a super heavy dub mix on B side by French duet Dub Shepherds, this release is more than just a record – it’s a tribute to the culture of collecting records, preserving sound, and sharing vibes across generations.

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12,56
Mother Tongue - Mother Tongue

Mother Tongue

Mother Tongue

12inchMR42
Makkum
Release unknown
  • 1: Djangaloma Dara
  • 2: Duk Kawe
  • 3: É Nah
  • 4: Déglul Kadu Rab Yi
  • 5: Kër Gi
  • 6: Kang

'A Senegalese Griot singer, an Amsterdam improviser and a Puerto Rican jazz drummer find each other on an open playground, a stage built for improvisation, an old cinema now used for minute made story telling.
'Equipped with an m'bira, a xalam, a drum kit, a voice, percussion, house hold tools and an electric clavichord on 220 volt, they sit down and take off: Wrrrrrraaang!
'Singer and percussionist Mola Sylla is in many ways a musical explorer. Born and raised in Dakar, Senegal, he grew up in the tradition of the griots. Griots play conveying stories – sometimes decorated with music, theater and dance – which all play an important role in West African culture. His rhythm and melodic compositions differ from the western agreed schedules and provide surprising twists.
'Puerto Rican drummer Frank Rosaly has been involved in the improvised and experimental music scenes since 2001 when he became an integral part of Chicago's musical fabric, navigating a fine line between the vibrant improvised music, experimental, rock and jazz communities.
'Oscar Jan Hoogland is the sound of Amsterdam in person. He is an instant composer and inventor of his own instrument by joining a clavichord, a keyboard instrument from the 17th century, to 220 Volt electricity. As the last student of the late pianist, composer and improvisor Misha Mengelberg he tears like a tornado through the Amsterdam jazz and impro scene.
'Together they are Mother Tongue.'

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23,49
VARIOUS - RETROFUTUR 3 EP

Proud to present you our third RETROFUTUR compilation, including 6 tracks by our most regular artists.

Endrik Schroeder opens the ball with the pure warehouse banger “Automated” ! The track’s sonic intensity never falters, driven by a relentless rhythmic structure and saturated synthetic textures. The modulated layers and the syncopated break recreate the visceral urgency worthy of the underground raves of the 90s.



With “Happy End,” Brandski distils a contagious euphoria, designed to set the dancefloor ablaze with collective joy. A leading figure of the Italian-French new wave, he creates a track as jubilant as it is unstoppable, where rhythmic mastery flirts with festive instinct. An invitation to luminous abandon: arms raised, shared smiles, communion guaranteed.

With “Eldorado” John Lord Fonda reaffirms his status as a key ambassador of French techno on the international scene. The track unfolds a relentless, extremely tense groove, where darkness becomes driving tension. A rigorous, almost martial sound signature, serving an uncompromising vision.

“White Light” by Panthera is a polished track that transports us on a euphoric journey. The heavy, incisive kick blends with atmospheric layers and heady arpeggios, creating a constant tension that culminates in thunderous drops. The whole thing is supported by a deep, vibrant bassline, typical of the 90s rave scene.

Once again, Berlin’s My Secret Playground stands out as the architect of a muscular German nu-disco, flirting with the boundaries of techno. “Don’t Panic” combines percussive pulses and dark tension, while distilling subtle reminiscences of the disco aesthetic. A masterful sonic hybrid, between retro hedonism and contemporary intensity.

Club Mayz delivers a masterful closing performance with “Tonight I Have To Hide”, an electro track fueled by the raw heritage of Detroit techno and the dark textures of EBM. The track combines dramatic tension and synthetic precision in a nocturnal and introspective aesthetic.

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15,34
BOGDAN RA - What Is a DJ?

BOGDAN RA

What Is a DJ?

12inchCMR007
Craft Music
Release unknown

2026 Repress

Bogdan Ra is based in the musical hotbed of Lisbon and his excellent What Is A DJ? EP takes its inspiration from the late 80s acid house and Italo, displaying a real mix of vintage charm and contemporary relevance that will strike all the right notes on the dancefloor. From the snappy title cut to the electro rhythms of 'Arroios' via the funky disco rhythms of 'Tonic Glue' and feel good factor of closer 'That's All', this is quality production that will more than stand the test of time

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14,08

Last In: 17 months ago
REALITY - Disco Party LP

REALITY

Disco Party LP

12inchMRBLP344
Mr Bongo
Release unknown
  • 1: Reality
  • 2: Road
  • 3: Disco Party (Let's Have A)
  • 4: Welcome
  • 5: Movin' & Groovin
  • 6: Let's Party People
  • 7: You Keep Me Holdin' On
  • 8: Clap & Hustle

Mr Bongo presents a reissue of one of the rarest releases on the illustrious and now ultra-rare tax scam label TSG Records. A label with a checkered past, operated by Lloyd Price and with alleged ties to boxing promoter Don King. The album in question, Disco Party by Reality, is a stunning journey through ‘70s dancefloor-focussed funk into early proto-disco grooves. Back in mid-‘70s Manhattan, Dr. Otto Gomez and a group of fellow New York musicians including Tony Dixon, Norman Drayton, Tony Dupree, Al Jones and Fred Nanton were brought in for a recording session by songwriter and producer, Billy Nichols. Laying down one of Nichols' songs and a selection of the group's own, they were paid as session musicians and thought little of it. The tapes came to the attention of Lloyd Price who struck a deal with Nichols unbeknownst to Gomez and the rest of the band. Price then pressed the album and put it out in 1976 on a newly formed subsidiary label, TSG Records, that would later be documented as one of the US tax scam labels of the ‘70s. Such labels were created to exploit a loophole in the US tax system, running up inflated production costs / losses that investors or the parent label could write off against their tax bills. Releases on these labels were never intended to have commercial success. They would usually be produced in incredibly limited pressing numbers and have little to no promotion or distribution. As such many of these records instantly fell into obscurity, becoming mythical amongst DJs and record collectors. Sadly, this meant that artists like Dr. Otto Gomez and friends never had the chance for their record and their talents to shine at the time. In fact, it was only when Jazzman reached out for their 2022 reissue that Dr. Otto Gomez became aware that the album had ever been released and heard the story behind it. Disco Party is a time capsule where ‘70s instrumental funk edges and intertwines into an early disco sound. The sessions are for the dancefloor, minimalist and groove-based. The bass and drums are at the forefront, providing the pulse of the album. Driving funky guitar licks, and a brilliant horn section weave their way in and out of the productions. Highlights include the uplifting feel-good ‘Let's Party People’, the early disco swagger of ‘Reality’, and ‘Disco Party (Let's Have A)’ with its wah-wah groove and percussion break, which could easily have found its home on a Blaxploitation film soundtrack of the period. It’s not just rarity that makes this record so sought after, but rather the fact that it is a superb example of dancefloor-focussed mid ‘70s funk and disco.

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26,85
Inkswel feat Robert Owens, Leonard Charles & Han Litz - Space Love

Australian producer Inkswel is back on the Cosmocities label in France with more of his superbly soulful sounds, this time with none other than Chicago legend Robert Owens. The lush 'Space Love' is a playful deep house jam with the sort of cosmic synths that recall early Fingers Inc and Owens's smoky tones only heighten that feeling. Steve Spacek provides a mix that rides on broken beats with elastic bass but just as much cosmic energy and a Fluterumental gets all loose-limbed and seductive. On the flip side are two Yoruba Soul mixes that bring extra rich soul vibes and shimmering pad work. A classy and timeless EP for sure.

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14,92
FBD Project - She's So EP

Fbd Project

She's So EP

12inchBTRP003
Bang-In Tunes
Release unknown

Re-Issued and Re-Mastered by Beau @247. Back with the original and the remix on one slab of black crack.
FBD Project rolling out the musical side of early drum and bass / jungle. The original is a pure chop-age fest, with poly-rhythm breaks rolling over 808 tones and luscious melodies... buy it an enjoy listening to the ever changing rolls and break programming.

Flip to the B-side and check out Neil Trix's revisited version. Stepping it up with an AMEN roller that just glides and rolls without the need for any long breakdown. FBD Project bang at it again.

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16,18
Chain Selector - School Days / Autumn Guide 7"

BLIS701 by Chain Selector is a carefully honed two-track release from BLACKINSTOCK Records, a division of MixCult Records, showcasing Chain Selector’s mastery in blending emotional depth with atmospheric finesse. Designed for those who appreciate subtlety and sonic craft, this release moves between introspective melodies and immersive dub textures with remarkable control.

On Side A, School Days is a tender and timeless composition—melodic, cinematic, and evocative. It gently stirs memory and emotion, creating a world where every sound breathes with intent. On the flip, Autumn Guide opens a more shadowed dimension. Built on layered tension and low-end pulses, it introduces a restrained, dub-heavy soundscape ideal for setting the tone of a deeper set.
With BLIS701, Chain Selector delivers a refined double-sided vinyl, one to reflect, one to explore. Both tracks stand as elegant tools for shaping atmosphere with poise and intention.

Limited 7" Edition

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11,35
Danou P - In The Brine EP

Danou P

In The Brine EP

12inchDEF2505
Definitive Recordings
Release unknown
  • A1: Danou P - The Flex
  • A2: Danou P - On My Own
  • B1: Danou P - Spirit
  • B2: Danou P - Bronstige Bakvissen

Danou P Serves Up Deep, Funky Heat with his 'In The Brine EP' on Definitive Recordings.

Rotterdam-based producer and DJ Danou P delivers a standout four-tracker with 'In The Brine EP,' released on Definitive Recordings. Known for his warm, soulful and funk-infused take on house music, Danou channels raw rhythm and musical flair into a collection that feels both classic and freshly personal.

Opening track 'The Flex' sets the tone with stomping deep house drums, playful chord stabs, and clever vocal sample play that gives it a raw, jacking feel. It's got attitude and groove in equal measure. 'On My Own' keeps things rolling with a classic deep house bassline, gradually introducing a soulful vocal loop that blossoms with the arrival of shimmering synth layers. Danou brings emotion without ever losing grip of the dancefloor.

Next comes 'Spirit', flipping the rhythm into broken beat territory. Another catchy vocal sample rides alongside vibey, jazzy stabs, offering a breezy, uplifting moment that's both heady and driving. It's the kind of track that sneaks into your set and ends up stealing the show. Rounding out the release is 'Bronstige Bakvissen', a deep and moody closer built on a heavy, rolling groove and rich classic house chords. It's stripped back but full of warmth, closing the EP with a nod to soulful late-night sessions.

Best known for his work alongside Jamie 3:26, and with releases on Glitterbox, Tru Thoughts, and Soulfuric Trax, Danou P is steadily building a solo catalogue that's as musical as it is danceable. His 'InThe Brine EP' is a bold step forward, out on Definitive on July 25th 2025.

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14,71
Subjects - Take Me Up EP

Subjects

Take Me Up EP

12inchDAT096
Deep Jungle
Release unknown

"Take Me Up" features rolling chords, pads and uplifting vocals alongside the "Do the Do" break (a break I've always loved). This one came together very nicely, and i often play it in the car while driving down the motorway. Tony and I really enjoying writing this tune. 

"Siren" is a classic Subjects style tune through and through: Stabs, beats, vocals, 808s, and (of course) amen breaks, just how we do it. Nuff said!

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15,08
Blossom Toes - Live on Radio & TV
  • A1: Listen To The Silence
  • A2: The Remarkable Saga Of The Frozen Dog
  • A3: Mister Watchmaker
  • A4: What On Earth
  • A5: The Remarkable Saga Of The Frozen Dog
  • A6: Love Is
  • A7: I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight
  • B1: Wait A Minute
  • B2: Ever Since A Memory
  • B3: Peace Loving Man*
  • B4: Stargazer
  • B5: Woman Mind

Over twelve tracks selected from BBC radio and European TV broadcasts, this LP charts the development of Blossom Toes from 1967 psyche to something darker and more powerful. This mix of idiosyncratic originals and re-interpreted cover versions includes songs not included on either of their studio albums. Sound quality is Excellent except*. Comes with extensive sleevenotes that include full recording details.

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19,54
ROME - The Tower LP

ROME

The Tower LP

12inchTRI841LP
TRISOL MUSIC GROUP
Release unknown
  • A1: The Twine And The Twist
  • A2: To The Great Work Only
  • A3: Twilight Leaves
  • A4: The Lighthouse And The Catacombs
  • A5: This Slaughter Behold
  • B1: Remember To Dare
  • B2: Mine Were Of Marble
  • B3: The Baron (Ordeal By Fire)
  • B4: Ire And Troth
  • B5: This Hour Her Vigil

At the end of the project’s 20th anniversary celebrations, ROME tolls in the next era of the band with a fresh and visionary album: ‘The Tower’.  ROME’s new and ever more mature sound is informed by a radically minimalist folk approach, with nonetheless charmingly lush arrangements. ‘The Tower’ is an introspective and enigmatic work at whose centre stands nothing less than ROME’s raison d’etre: The Great Work and the sacrifices both necessary and essential on the demanding path to light. As an unreachable bulwark against the general decline of every value in life, the tower would have been erected long ago to defend the coast.

It would have been raised on a rocky platform resting on the sea floor. It would have been joined to the continent by a thin tongue of sand. It would have offered a heroic, magical point of view. A place for our claim to know and point out vaster horizons. It would have stood firm on the ramparts. This isolated tower would not have been just a refuge for more or less mystic escape, but also a post of resistance and combat.

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27,31
James Taylor - Sweet Baby James LP
  • A1: Sweet Baby James
  • A2: Lo And Behold
  • A3: Sunny Skies
  • A4: Steamroller
  • A5: Country Road
  • A6: Oh Susannah
  • A7: Fire And Rain
  • A8: Blossom
  • A9: Anywhere Like Heaven
  • B1: Oh Baby, Don't You Loose Your Lip On Me
  • B2: Suite For 20G
  • B3: With A Little Help From My Friends
  • B4: Rainy Day Man
  • B5: Steamroller
  • B6: Carolina In My Mind
  • B7: Long Ago And Far Away
  • B8: Riding On A Railroad
  • B9: Close Your Eyes

The album that launched a thousand heavy-hearted singer-songwriters on their not-so-merry way, Sweet Baby James was arguably the first shot in what became the soft revolution of the early '70s. Taylor struck commercial gold with Sweet Baby James by augmenting his acoustic guitar and soothing vocals with laid-back accompaniment and penning a slew of songs that drew upon folk, soul, and rock influences. Musically mellow and lyrically restive, it put Taylor in the Top 10 and set the tone for a popular school of '70s sound.

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23,32
The Temptations - Cloud Nine (2x12")
  • A1: Cloud Nine
  • A2: I Heard It Through The Grapevine
  • B1: Run Away Child, Running Wild
  • C1: Love Is A Hurtin’ Thing
  • C2: Hey Girl
  • C3: Why Did She Have To Leave Me (Why Did She Have To Go)
  • C4: I Need Your Lovin’
  • D1: Don’t Let Him Take Your Love From Me
  • D2: I Gotta Find A Way (To Get You Back)
  • D3: Gonna Keep On Tryin’ Till I Win Your Love

The Temptations Get High on Psychedelic Soul: Cloud Nine Soars with Ambitious Arrangements and Production, Features Standout Vocal Performances and Instrumentation by the Funk Brothers

The Temptations’ Cloud Nine announced that Motown — and “The Sound of Young America” — would never be the same. Influenced by the emergence of cutting-edge rock and pop currents, as well as increasing sociopolitical turmoil, the album broke down barriers between rock, psychedelia, and soul while heralding the arrival of visionary arrangements and production techniques. Bookended by traditional R&B numbers, the 1969 record sent the Temptations in bold new directions and signaled the advent of psychedelic soul.

Sourced from the original master tapes, strictly limited to 3,000 numbered copies, pressed at Fidelity Record Pressing, and housed in a Stoughton gatefold jacket, Mobile Fidelity’s 180g 45PM 2LP set presents Cloud Nine in audiophile sound for the first time on a domestic pressing. This collectible reissue bestows Norman Whitfield’s extraordinary production with the grand-scale dynamics, natural tonality, expansive openness, and low-end weight it deserves. The timbre of each of the five members’ voices is readily identifiable — even within the group harmonies — bestowing a realism never experienced outside the recording studio.

Making its debut on 45RPM, the album further benefits from the wide groove space by playing with greater separation and more realistic presence than prior editions. Everything from the brassiness of the horns to the dry snap of the snare comes across with reference-grade clarity and positioning. And since Motown’s renowned Funk Brothers backing band plays on many of the cuts, you’ll want to savor every note. The imaging, soundstaging, and organic bloom-and-decay of the notes make that possible.

Amid Cloud Nine, the instrumentation and architecture stand out as much as any element. Never before had a Motown album contained such ambitious patterns and complex passages. Seemingly conscientious of the departure from their past methods, the Temptations and Whitfield bunched together the tracks that mark a deep dive into psychedelic territory and counterbalance them with seven sterling soul cuts that dovetail with Motown tradition drenched with heartfelt vocals, swelling strings, and finger-snapping beats.

On the original 33RPM release, traditional Motown soul — laden with heartfelt vocals, swelling strings, and finger-snapping beats — occupies Side Two. These songs reveal an ensemble still very much on top of delivering pristine pop-soul material graced with romantic sweetness, persuasive insistent, and soaring highs. Re-energized after the departure of lead singer David Ruffin, who was fired for a variety of reasons in June 1968, the Temptations seamlessly meld with his replacement, Dennis Edwards, on one melodic gem after another.

The collective tackles five songs co-written by the legendary Motown team of Barrett Strong and Whitfield. Not the least of which are the smooth, shuffling “Why Did She Have to Leave Me (Why Did She Have to Go)” and deceptively simple, horn-spiked “Gonna Keep on Tryin’ till I Win Your Love.” On these tracks, as well as on a lush rendition of the ballad “Love Is a Hurtin’ Thing” and pleading, tender send-up of the Gerry Goffin-Carole King classic “Hey Girl,” Edwards and Paul Williams take turns on the lead with the estimable Eddie Kendricks, Melvin Franklin, and Otis Williams providing backing support.

All five vocalists trade-off leads on the simmering title track, a groundbreaking composition shot through with wah-wah-pedal effects, liquid funk, deep bass lines, Cuban percussion, saturated reverb, and gang choruses. Whitfield mines each member’s natural vocal range with spectacular results, keeps time with cymbals, and channels both the heated temperatures and escapist desires of a society embroiled in war, conflict, and experimental drugs.

Amazingly, the Temptations top themselves on the similarly revealing “Run Away Child, Running Wild.” Nearly 10 minutes in length, the song explodes R&B parameters and harbors a cinematic scope. Urgent pianos, distorted guitars, stripped-down percussion, steamy Hammond organs, minimal bass motifs, five distinct voices narrating the tale of a boy who fled home and now finds himself amid the scary, unforgiving external world: They combine to give the urgent tune a walls-closing-in atmosphere where fear and desperation reign. Bolstered by an extended instrumental section that precedes a climactic return of the singers’ voices, “Run Away Child, Running Wild” equaled the success of the record’s title track, with both reaching No. 6 on the pop charts.

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