quête:väth

The making of Congo Funk!, our long-awaited journey to the musical heart of the African continent, took the Analog Africa Team on two journeys to Kinshasa and one to Brazzaville. Selected meticulously from around 2000 songs and boiled down to 14, this compilation aims to showcase the many facets of the funky, hypnotic and schizophrenic tunes emanating from the two Congolese capitals nestled on the banks of the Congo River.

On its south shore, the city of Kinshasa – capital of Democratic Republic of the Congo, the country formerly known as Zaïre – is often seen as Africa’s musical Mecca, the city that spawned such immortal bands as African Jazz, O.K. Jazz and African Fiesta, and the place to which aspiring musicians from throughout the continent would go to make a name for themselves.

But the city of Brazzaville on the north shore of the river – capital of the Congo Republic – played an equally important role in spreading Congolese sounds continentally. In addition to producing legendary bands such as Les Bantous de la Capital, it was the powerful transmitters of Radio Brazzaville that allowed the unmistakable groove of Congolese Rumba to be heard as far away as Nairobi, Yaoundé, Luanda and Lusaka thus turning the electric guitar into the continent’s most important instrument!

Although the musical landscape of these cities had been defined by a core group of bands in the late 1950s, the modernisation of Congolese music has been steadily evolving until the events surrounding the Muhammad Ali vs George Foreman boxing match marked a turning point. The promoter of that event known as “Rumble In The Jungle” was none other than the notorious Don King who needed 10 millions dollars to get Ali and Foreman into a boxing ring. The only candidate willing to put this kind of cash on the table was Mobutu Sese Seko, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Mobutu - the megalomaniac dictator who got to power with the support of the United States and Belgium in exchange for unlimited and affordable access to the riches of the country - had a soft spot for music and it doesn’t come as a surprise that he agreed to a three-day live music festival being organised prior to the “Rumble”. Zaïre 74 - as the festival was dubbed - was meant to hype the boxing match and many stars were invited.

Although a myriads of artists flocked in for the occasion, it was the performance of James Brown on Zairian soil that caused havoc among the younger generation, inspiring hundreds of would-be musicians to take up their electric guitars and reverbs cranked to the max in search of a new sound in which hyperactive Rumba was blended with elements of psych and funk. While the results were very different from the popular music of the three Musketeers - as Tabu Ley, Franco and Verckys were known - they weren’t a complete break with tradition.

These new sounds emerged at a time when the Congolese record industry – previously dominated by European major labels – was experiencing a period of decline due to rising production costs and needed a radical change. The void was filled by dozens of entrepreneurs willing to take chances on smaller scale releases. It was the beginning of a golden age for Congolese independent record labels, and the best of them – Cover N°1, Mondenge, Editions Moninga, Super Contact – preserved the work of some of the region’s finest artists, while launching a generation of younger musicians into the spotlight.

The movement was greatly helped by legendary radio shows but it was the dynamic productions of Télé-Zaïre that set the dynamite on fire. Legend has it that TV shows were so huge that president Mobutu himself ordered RTV du Zaïre to put on daily concerts since it halted criminal activities for the duration of the evening.

Congo Funk! is the story of these sounds and labels, but most of all it is the story of two cities, separated by water but united by an indestructible groove. The fourteen songs on this double LP showcase the many facets of the Congolese capitals, and highlight the bands and artists, famous and obscure, who pushed Rumba to new heights and ultimately influenced the musical landscape of the entire continent and beyond.

We are back for a second round with some friends and this time it smells like iodic spirit.

Making his first vinyl appearance on the label, Luuk van Dijk is back releasing his long awaited ‘Take Me For A Ride’. Remixing the title track is Berlin house talent Running Hot. The record is completed with 2 of Luuk’s originals on the B side with the garage influenced ‘Doin’ It’ and groovy ‘Sexy M*therfucker’.

Our very own Sweat Sampler has landed and Vol. 1 kicks things off with four exceptionally Sweaty bops. Firstly, GRAMMY award-winning producer CID joins forces with Italian DJ duo Havoc & Lawn for an epic rework of America's 1972 hit 'A Horse With No Name'. Followed by ‘Come Out’, a product of the new project Saturday Love from Fiorious and Boston’s Kon, fresh off The Vision’s instant-classic Defected LP and 9 million streaming anthem ‘Heaven’. Flip the vinyl and you’ll then find the mastermind who seamlessly combines the underground with a house twist, Marco Lys, as he teams up with Sweat homestay Ben Miller for the funky crowd-pleaser ‘Give It To Me’. Top it off with one of Australia’s most adored dance acts, with over 100 million streams, Platinum and Gold plaques and numerous triple j ‘most played’ hits, Set Mo gives us the feel-good ‘Could I Be’.

Repress!

4 To The Floor is committed to delivering seminal house music to wax, making sought after heritage tracks readily available on vinyl for crate diggers to add to their collections. The third edition of the series pays homage to one of the most heralded names in house music - Armand Van Helden. While Armand’s productions like ‘U Don’t Know Me’ and ‘Bonkers’ have soared to #1, he has remained a true legend of the underground. One of the most illustrious remixers in the game, this 12” package celebrates this part of Armand’s skillset. Kicking off the A-side is his remix of the 1993 club anthem by Tonja Dantzler ‘In And Out Of My Life’, followed by the Shan and Gerd Janson edit which amplifies the original even further. On the flip is a classic bouncing house and garage sound from 1997 on Armand’s remix of Geoffrey Williams’ ‘Sex Life’, followed by the more recent Armand remix of Lee Walker vs. DJ Deeon’s ‘Freak Like Me’ – an explosive club track that was championed by everyone from Marco Carola to Annie Mac.

Diogo Silva, Nuno Fulgêncio and Rui Martins collectively go by the name Bardino. With their sound consisting of an inventive mix of
electronica, rock, jazz, the Porto-based trio are pushing their sound into unchartered waters. A feeling that will be reinforced after
experiencing their new album, ‘Memória da Pedra Mãe’.
Their enthralling music draws upon the imagery of the beautiful and rugged scenery of their home country. ‘Centelha’ , their previous
album (released by Saliva Diva in 2020) was recorded in Chaves,
in the very remote region of Trás-os-Montes. Their 207 EP of the same name was created in the rustic heart of Serra das Meadas. In this
latest offering, the mention of "Pedra Mãe" (Mother Stone), refers to a rare geological phenomenon popularly known as "breeder stones"
found in isolated, deserted, and inhospitable places. On the inspiration of the new album, they explain that they want to refer to "the
importance of collective memory in the cohesion and identity of communities and the process of creating new memories, a process that
is both natural and conflicting, since it mirrors a tension between past, present and future".
The album was recorded in the summer of 2023 at Arda Recorders in Porto and produced by João Brandão and Rui Martins. In this
new material, Bardino's resources expand: Nuno Fulgêncio's drums, Diogo Silva's bass and Rui Martins' veritable arsenal of keyboards
(acoustic and electric piano, various synthesisers) are augmented by the alto and tenor saxophones of Brian Blaker (who stands out in
"Memória" and "Black Mica"), the guitar of Leonardo Outeiro (who features on "Punctum No 2") and, already indicating their affiliation
with the Porto label Jazzego, Hugo Oliveira, who records as Minus & MRDolly (and is a guest on "Pedra Mãe") and Sérgio Alves, aka
AZAR AZAR (who plays piano and Moog on "Tília"). Bardino's entry into the increasingly unavoidable Jazzego catalogue also reinforces
their obvious links to a new wave of projects that have been experimenting with different tangents to the notion of "jazz", taking this
music as part of a wider set of coordinates.
Over the course of eight tracks, and clearly benefiting from the distinct imprint of the recognised quality work of João Brandão, one of
Portugal's current best producers, Bardino presents dense, deeply cinematic music of the highest definition, in which the different
instruments translate a broad emotional and visual landscape, with solos of enormous elegance arranged over grooves that induce the
idea of movement. All the musical coordinates mentioned earlier are present, but perhaps in this new material you can feel a greater
fluidity, certainly the result of honing the vision of the central trio through a vast experience collected on stages all over the country. And
there are even echoes of a decidedly Portuguese songbook, as is so clearly felt in "O Semeador", something new in the range of aesthetic
references embraced by Bardino. This is, in fact, music that thrives on a benign tension between past, present and future, in the sense
that it embraces traditions and history, seeks a new framework in this diverse now and dares to project itself forward. Because the future
is the best of all locations.

Transversales Disques proudly presents Alain Goraguer Rare Soundtracks & Lost Tapes.
French composer Alain Goraguer who first made a name for himself as a sideman and arranger for Serge Gainsbourg wrote very few soundtracks, but amongst them, the legendary La Planète Sauvage (1973) is an absolute staple of France’s essential music.

During that same period of time, Goraguer wrote two rare and beautiful scores using the same masterclass arrangements. On L’Affaire Dominici (1975), Alain Goraguer creates a theme of great melodic clarity from a palette of breathy flutes, clavinet D6 baroque textures, wah-wah guitars and slow-paced drums that clearly reminds La Planete Sauvage’s atmosphere. The same can be said about the score of Au delà de la peur (1975) with its descending clavinet melody, twanging bass riff, funky drums and flashes of bended electric guitars. This record also includes never before released tracks found in the vaults of French national radio: beautiful and timeless orchestral compositions recorded at Studio 105, Maison de la radio.

REMASTERED FROM THE ORIGINAL MASTER TAPES

The Hammond organ was first manufactured in 1935. In 1954, the now famous Hammond B3 model was introduced with additional harmonic percussion feature. When the company went out of business in 1985, around two million of various models of the Hammond organ have been produced.

The Hammond B3 was originally marketed to churches as a lower-cost alternative to the wind-driven pipe organ. It quickly became popular with professional jazz musicians in organ trios. Jimmy Smith's use of the Hammond B3 inspired a generation of organ players, and its use became more widespread in the 1960s and 1970s in rhythm and blues, rock, reggae, and progressive rock.

This collection is centered on the exciting and dynamic sounds of the Hammond B3 organ!

This is the first re-release on 7inch vinyl single of the early Reggae classic “She Caught The Train” by Ray Martell released in 1970 on the Trojan sublabel Joe in the U.K. and later covered by UB 40 in 1983. This original song, a huge hit, has featured on many compilations but has never been repressed as a single, until now…
It was initially released with the track “Tea House From Emperor Roscoe” by Dice The boss on the B side (which we will also release separately on the 22nd of March 2024). On this release, we chose to showcase a super rare Ray Martell song, the gorgeous “Cora” initially released on Attack in 1970.
About Joe Mansano:
“She Caught The Train” was credited to Joe Mansano, real name Joel Mansano who also produced the song. Joel was a Trinidadian who moved to London in 1963. He was a record shop seller, song writer and producer and became heavily involved in the early reggae era producing and writing tracks for several Jamaican artists, enough for Trojan to dedicate a label to him: the “Joe” label aimed at the emerging Skinheads market. He also owned a shop the Joe's Record Centre in Brixton and recorded two handfuls of singles under the name Joe The boss…
About Ray Martell:
“Cora” is credited to Ray Martell himself and was produced by Philligree, an alias for Graham Goodall and Phil Chen. The Philligree duo produced about 20 very interesting singles on a variety of labels with artist such as Desmond Dekker, Millie, Pat Sandy and Ray Martell among others between 1969 and 1970. Although “She Caught The Train” is indeed a famous track, little is known about Ray Martell aka Martel Robinson. Ray was born in St Catherine parish in Jamaica in September 1943. He started to sing at school and church and later on moved to U.K. where he kept on singing in clubs in Coventry and Birmingham … He eventually moved to London where he recorded 4 great tracks in 1970 “She Caught The Train” on Joe, “Cora” and “Loving Lover” on Attack, and “Lover” on Trojan, the last three being written by himself. In 1973 he started his own label “Ray” featuring his own productions but these were unfortunately not as interesting as his previous releases…

Rødhåd presents: CRIMSON RUBEUS - the first ever compilation on WSNWG - BACK TO ZERO will be released on April 3rd
Under the leitmotif "WE SEE NEW WORLDS GROWING", the release marks a progression for the imprint to open up for solo releases from new artists and and long term collaboraters.
The compilation features 8 tracks handpicked by Rødhåd, each characterized by a vigorous commitment to the dancefloor while staying true to the label's signature - hard-to-resist sound with a pinch of mystery.
While every contribution has its distinct magnetic pull, marking the way to a nascent world, the crimson red thread running through this compilation is perpetuating, swirling techno with an acute fit for the dancefloor. As with previous releases Rødhåd crafted the artwork for the compilation, this time drenched in crimson hues echoing the energy of the music.







g D1 Ø Phase - Exiting The Delusion

The harmonious nature of creation, the search for symmetry, the perpetual motion of bodies. Characteristics that amplify the sensations when we face something bigger than ourselves. In the same way, the lake reveals itself as a mirror for the soul, and the carp begin to flow into our soul, bringing out some "Distance Problems", able to be filled only with music.

KOI008 is brought to you by the enigmatic yet oniric outer-world creator S.O.N. with three mesmerizing original tracks. On the remix duties, Romanian superstar Sublee delights us with his take on "Vanessa", in front of which we must only surrender.

We are thrilled to announce our 5th vinyl VA. This time with only Belgian Underground artists. All friends and amigos who met each other during their journey in the Belgian music scene over the years.
A diverse ensemble spanning the House-spectrum, on the A-side we take a more deep and funky approach with UC Beatz bringing his known groovy flavours. Followed by Rawdio with some piano house vibes and bendrik keeping it fresh and crispy as always.
The B-side takes a more clubby turn with Deeleegenz dropping the snares and shuffled percussion in his Deep Jackin tune. Followed by Max Telaer who shows a darker side from himself with an absolute stomper that will set fire to the dancefloor.

Very proud to have them all on board!

Dedicated to the captivating essence of feminine expression, this album pulsates with deep bass and raw emotion. This release is more than just notes and beats; it's a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the profound impact of music on our hearts and souls. Each track is a unique reflection of its creator, showcasing an array of styles and perspectives.

Louise van den Heuvel is a dynamic Dutch bass player and composer. She's known for blending modern music technologies and effect pedals in her compositions rooted in the contemporary electronic/jazz scene. Louise founded the up-and-coming Belgian electronic jazztrio Dishwasher_, collaborated with renowned artists on stage such as Zwangere Guy & Lander Gyselinck and Bruno Vansina Orchestra, and is part of Stéphane Gallands' The Rhythm Hunters, The Gallands, and the neo-soul group STACE.

For her latest project, Sonic Hug, Louise composed the whole repertoire by herself. The self-titled album, supported by JazzLab and W.E.R.F. Records, features a stellar line-up of some of the leading figures in the Benelux (jazz) scene: Hendrik Lasure on keys, Daniel Jonkers on drums and Daniel Comerford on reets (live replaced by Werend Van Den Bossche). The band is set to tour in April and May 2024 after its release on 5th of April 2024.

Her own creations expose themselves as elaborated melancholic songs filled with elegant grooves, crystalline vocals and experimental jazz excursions. She's brilliantly using her own musical voice - even literally, since you will also hear her sing on some of the tracks.

?Surrounded by three equally inevitable peer musicians in the front of the new Belgian jazz generation (known from acts such as schntzl, Bombataz, Profound Observer, Otto Kintet, Dishwasher_, Kin Gajo, ...) Sonic Hug becamea very personal, unique new project. Influenced by the sounds of Scandinavia and artists such as ADHD, Nala Sinephro, Floating Points, Y Otis and Joni Mitchell, the vibe of Sonic Hug is etheric, elegant, melodically narrative, and always searching for a grasping groove.

The Nug-Net Vinyl Winner’s Circle is here. These are 4 of the top 8 tracks we received out of 400+ submissions. These have been played and tested by Gene and are certified for the dancefloor. Nug-Net will continue to shine a light on up and coming producers now and in the future.

2024 Repress

RPX 16035 returns with a various, on the A side two tracks by Giuseppe Angeloro with 80s influences. Drum dynamics and abstract sounds composed with the classic keyboards and sounds of those times to complete the 2 grooves.

On the B side, three tracks by Gianluca Pellerano, dark influences and style that recall 80s new wave with the influences of more conceptual techno.

RPX 16035 wanted to collect a retro sound but projected into the future.

Three years on from the bands acclaimed ‘Grateful End’ album, and following up last years reissue of their live release ‘Psychedelic Scum Freaks’. Taipei's underground psych monsters Dope Purple return with their new album proper, ‘This Is The Harsh Trip For New Psyche’

The album is co released again by Riot Season & WV Sorcerer Productions and is available on three vinyl variants, and also digitally.

The album, it's a mixture of harsh noise and psych rock, the noise element being well recorded and presented so we can hear many details, and blends perfectly with the other instruments in all frequencies. The whole album moves between a spectral sadness and insanity, each track takes a rather different direction, recognising the influence of Classic Japanese bands such as High Rise, Mainliner, and Les Rallizes Dénudés.

The album is a collaboration with Berserk, a young underground pioneer from the Taipei scene, and has been performing chaotic frequency manipulation and carefully textured post-apocalyptic soundscape since 2015.

É Soul Cultura captain, originator of Manchester’s legendary Electric Chair and definitive people’s champion, Luke Una taps into a lifetime’s worth of musical discovery for the second volume in our Mr Bongo Edits series. A cosmic coming together that sees two of Luke’s secret weapons, re-edited and re-contextualised by the man himself to provide optimal dancefloor euphoria.

A stalwart of the underground for nearly 40 years, Luke has become an appointed leader of the late night disenfranchised, with an unquestionable ability to pick records that make minds tick. Not least through his two É Soul Cultura compilations released on Mr Bongo over the past two years.

A taste that traverses genres as much as it does emotions and decades, who better to give an insight into the tracks he has chosen to edit, than the man himself. “I've been an avid collector of afro-beat house, techno and underground black heart disco since before the basement soul days of Electric Chair 30 years ago. Both these bombs were very much holy grail finds, plucked from the last four decades of digging in random crates of dusty vinyl all over the world.”

First up, Thandi Zulu & The Young Five’s interpretation of Pure Energy’s early ‘80s disco power play – ‘Love Game’. With a distinctive South African synth bass and killer keys combo, Luke explains the original has this “bonkers alchemy of heavy machine soul, uptempo rawness and a majestic disco evangelism”, making it ripe for a re-edit.

On the B side, Lionel Pillay’s Jazz dancer ‘Plum’. “The original was a relentless 18-minute raw jam”, Luke states, “which despite its late ‘70s South African origin kinda reminded me of a 1986 Chicago piano House record”.

“These edits strip the tracks back and rebuild them, giving them more sonic weight with that looped up drum jacking militancy from the days of Chicago, combined with a boosted sense of transcendental, psychedelic, cosmic disco. They have always had such an explosive reaction on so many dancefloors including the heavier electronic club, so it felt only right to reshare them”.

Mit "New Blue Sun" veröffentlicht André 3000 ein unerwartetes, rein instrumentales Album, auf dem Andre Flöte spielt und von anderen talentierten Musikern begleitet wird. Auf dem von Andre 3000 und dem Multiinstrumentalisten Carlos Niño koproduzierten Album "New Blue Sun" spielen Nate Mercereau, Surya Botofasina, Deantoni Parks, Diego Gaeta, Matthewdavid, V.C.R., Diego Gaeta, Jesse Peterson und Mia Doi Todd.

Diese limitierte 3-LP-Vinylauflage ist auf 180 g schweres schwarzes Vinyl gepresst und verfügt über ein ausklappbares Poster, bedruckte Innenhüllen und eine Notiz des Künstlers.