Funk | Soul Preorder 256 Items

Not much is known about this early 1970's psychedelic soul group from the Germantown section of Philadelphia. But we do know this record was recorded in 1969 released in 1970 - and one of two records on Michael Nise's (Nise Productions Inc) Philadelphia Round Records (see More Below) Brewerytown Records Label & Insert design by Jeremy Zombie 1984 consists of band members - Gerald Foster, Ronald Hynson, Andrea Johnson, Harold Johnson, Arthur "sly" RAY, Stanley Vurton - From Nise Productions INC: Circa 1970 Audio Magazine, a nationally respected magazine and audio authority, recognizes Nise Productions, Inc. in a special campaign. The promotional director for North American Publishing Company initiates this promotional campaign that utilizes the extended relationship between Frank and Michael Nise with Audio Magazine through the years. "Nise Productions, Inc. is a successful sound production company." Audio Magazin In conjunction with sports announcer Gene Kelly (Cincinnati Reds and Philadelphia Phillies), Nise Productions, Inc. produces a commemorative audio record highlighting the 20th Anniversary of the 1950 Phillies pennant-winning home run. Wpbs-fm markets and advertises the product. Nise Productions, Inc. moves into corporate audio-visual and multi-track studio production. They establish an entertainment management, publishing and production entity. They sign The Ghetto Children and later, individually, Joy Stamford, who began with The Ghetto Children. Frank and Michael acquire a Sony Superscope dealership and build a two-track audio recording studio, a graphics department and a record mastering facility. They do this while also producing albums for schools and churches on location and produce over 40 albums. The Nise's initiate their first record label, Philadelphia Round Records, with two groups: American Asphalt and 1984.

Get a taste of everybody's favourite terrestrial with something extra, Jimi Tenor and his fresh brand of galactic balladry with two single versions from his upcoming album on Timmion Records, "Is There Love In Outer Space?". On the A-side, the title track effortlessly merges cosmic synth flourishes with a soulful backbeat, Jimi's smooth vocal and flute stylings, delivering a splendid questioning continuum to Sun Ra's similarly named statement.Flipping to the B-side, the mostly instrumental "Orbiting Telesto" launches us to the outer rings of Saturn with a healthy helping of vintage sci-fi movie soundtrack and library music themes. Accompanied by the down and dirty energy of Cold Diamond & Mink, Jimi's seasoned artistry shines through, showcasing his ability to blend celestial sounds with gritty moondust funk.With these two tracks, Tenor teases our appetite for the two cosmically themed albums in the pipeline for 2024. These songs crafted together with the Timmion crew serve as a testament to Jimi's unique ability to create captivating moods that transcend the usual.

Big Crown Records is proud to present Perak, the debut album from TheeMarloes.When you rst hear Thee Marloes, their particular soul sound may seemfamiliar enough. There are the weighty drums, a crooning guitar, and a beautifulvoice singing about unrequited love and the complications inherent in affairs ofthe heart. But then there is something undeniably different about Thee Marloesand their music, something new and distinct. And while you may be acquaintedwith soul music, you've probably never heard it from Surabaya, Indonesia_theplace they call home.Thee Marloes are Natassya Sianturi singing and playing keys, Tommy Satwickon drums, and Sinatrya ("Raka") Dharaka on guitar and handling production.Their sound has the universal appeal of soul, jazz, and pop, but with a distinctapproach attributable to their local culture and global inuence. The world'sintroduction to Thee Marloes' debut album Perak, started with "MidnightHotline" the scorching A side to their debut 7" on Big Crown. A punchy dance-oor number with an infectious chorus, vibey piano, and jazzy guitar licks.Contrasting that energy in the classic plug and ballad pairing dynamic, the Bside "Beri Cinta Waktu" has all the makings of a beloved soul ballad but thelyrics are in Indonesian. Regardless of any language barrier, the sentiment intheir music is palpable, helping to make their songs relatable and heartfelt. Therest of Perak ts perfectly in between those bookends of both energy andlanguage, "I Know" is a mid-tempo burner that talks about pulling the veil oflies off a love affair founded on falsehood. "Not Today" is right up there with thegrooviest feel good songs you could ever play on a Sunday morning withNatassya reminding us to make space for ourselves no matter what life throwsour way. "Mungkin Saja" brings the tempo back up with another dance oorsmoker while "True Love" nds Thee Marloes dipping into the soulful side ofjazz with a beat ballad that could soundtrack a Tarantino dance scen...

Straight Outta Soul N Palms, soulful re-edits for the more discerning ear.

A double album boil down of Numero's 2012 45x 45RPM art object Eccentric Soul: Omnibus.Gathering 25 looser emnants from across theAmerican soul diaspora, Minibus connects thedots between group harmony, funk, disco, andmodern soul, 1966-1980. Housed in a deluxegatefold, tip-on jacket and illustrated with copiousnotes and photographs, the first ever LPpressing fills in a crucial hole on your Numeroshelf.

A Detroit resident, William Odell Hughes is a much-loved street educated singer-songwriter and music composer. As a regular passenger riding to work on the Detroit East Side bus route in the early eighties, he met jazz pianist Pamela Wise who also rode the bus to work every day and who he noticed was always reading music. Pamela told him about saxophonist, clarinetist, and producer Wendell Harrison (founder of the legendary Tribe collective and a regular collaborator of Pamela Wise). She introduced Odell to Wendell, who was impressed with William’s compositions and felt that it would be a great project for release on his WenHa record label.

Hughes and Harrison began producing and recording the album to be called “Cruisin”featuring musical arrangements by both Wendell Harrison and Pamela Wise. This album (released in 1981) was the first recording for Hughes and the beginning of a long musical journey that continues to this day. Cruisin’ features an all-star line-up that includes Andrew Gibson (The Counts), Pamela Wise (Tribe) and award-winning Detroit Jazz icon Wendell Harrison...all doing their bit and making this a monster of an album!

William Odell Hughes’ debut album has all the best characteristics of an 80s album: it’s filled with funky playful beats and has excellent soulful honey-dipped vocals. On Cruisin’ the listener is treated to both mellow soul sounds and electrifying disco boogie (that’ll make even the shyest of club goers want to get up and dance) and Wendell Harrison’s instantly recognizable flute-playing and synth pads give the record a warm, relaxed groove. Prepare yourself for funky vibes, cool soothing feet-tapping rhythms, fantastic interplays on vocal tempos...all backed by a beautiful array of soulful synthesized and cosmic music.

References to universal awareness are plentiful throughout and the spirituality of The Tribe remains a constant undertone; a gentle reminder of WenHa’s roots. With a sound like this, it’s no wonder that this album has long been considered a grail for crate diggers around the world. All of the above makes this incredible record both timeless and as relevant today as it was back when it was initially released.

Tidal Waves Music now proudly presents the first ever vinyl reissue of this rare funk & soul album (original copies go for large amounts on the second-hand market) originally released in 1981 on WenHa records. This unique record comes as a deluxe 180g vinyl edition (strictly limited to 500 copies worldwide) with obi strip. This vinyl edition also features the original photography by acclaimed British photographer Brian Smith known for his work with artists such as Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, Howlin’ Wolf, Chuck Berry and John Lee Hooker.

With her new single release "Uh-Ah Song" the Ghanaian Frafra Soul singer Florence Adooni announces her debut album "Fo Yelle" on Philophon.

A lot has happened since the release of her first single "Mam Pe'ela Su'ure" in 2021. While this release was a pure studio project, Florence Adooni is now an eight-member live formation, made up of young talents from the highlife scene of Kumasi. The group has already considerable credentials: In 2023, they toured Europe twice and thrilled their audiences at festivals such as Roskilde, Down The Rabbit Hole and Überjazz. And this year, with the debut "Fo Yelle" under the belt, Florence and her group embarking on a 50+ concert summer tour through Europe, from Sweden to Portugal to UK and at festivals like FMM Sines, Xajazz, Africa Oye, Fusion, End of The Road.

The title track "Uh-Ah Song" is based on a rhythm typical of Kumasi and shines with its playful and cheerful character. Florence remembers the process of creating the piece: "When my producer Max Weissenfeldt came to me to play me on the piano an idea for a new piece, my daughter, who had just been born, began to sing in rhythm ah-ah-ah, with all joy in her face ever imaginable, while Max was playing. Max turned around and answered her with uh-uh-uh, to which she replied again with ah-ah-ah. We laughed so much and decided to make it a piece that would capture that very moment of joy we just had experienced. That's why it's somehow a children's song".

"Otoma Da Naba" (The Creator Has Done Well) has a sequencer bass line from a Roland Tb-303 as its foundation. While Florence holds her verse in a kind of Ethiopian pentatonic scale, in the pre-chorus she switches to a sweetly swinging heptatonic motif, with a typical highlife guitar in the background creating the atmosphere. In the chorus, the singing then changes in that unique choir style, which is the trademark of Frafra music.

The debut album "Fo Yelle" will be released on Philophon in May.

City Soul is a concept word to bring together Soul, AOR & Blue Eyed Soul with similar tastes to City Pop. Samuel Purdey, William Sikstrom, Bluey, and Julia Wu, an R&B singer from Taiwan...many singers beyond a border of countries, just the best music is compiled from the series of City Soul compilation CDs.

Boulevards, also known as Jamil Rashad, returns with Carolina Funk: Barn Burner On Tobacco Road. Teaming up with funk producer Sergio Rios (Orgone, Say she she, Neal Francis). Taking notes from rare funk records and blaxploitation, Carolina Funk: Barn Burner on Tobacco Road is a raw, muddy, infectious, live testament to the funk. With infectious hooks, syncopated basslines, tight drums and classic horns that bring a punchy and soulful element to the funk.

Introducing the much anticipated 7"" vinyl featuring two standout tracks from Sami Galbi. Face A is "Dakchi Hani," a poignant post-breakup anthem blending raï influences with contemporary rhythms, offering a humorous take on navigating emotions. Face B showcases "Rruina," a powerful follow-up track that delves deeper into darker, club-oriented sounds, pushing the boundaries of Swiss-Moroccan raï-chaabi fusion. Seamlessly transitioning from the raw synths and bouncing rhythms of "Dakchi Hani" to the tension-filled atmosphere of "Rruina," this vinyl promises a captivating journey through Sami Galbi"s musical evolution. With each track tailored for the dancefloors, this vinyl release is poised to explode with energy wherever it goes.

Saint Louis based Piscean Group return with a 45 showcasing their future funk jazz sound

Led and produced as always by Osunlade (Yoruba Records), this ever evolving group provide two new tracks; the first “Finger It Out” a driving groove punctuated by explosive horns and an irresistible drop, backed with “Kushti”, a beautiful downtempo meditative jam with loping beat and spaced out guitar licks that transports you to a new time and space.

Limited to 200 copies.

Unearthed funk from Parliament drummer Jerome Bailey and his band Mutiny

In 1973, Davis would finally kick off her cosmic career with an amazingly progressive hard funk and sweet soul self-titled debut. Davis showcased her fiercely unique talent and features such gems as “If I’m In Luck I Might Get Picked Up” and “Game Is My Middle Name.” The album Betty Davis was recorded with Sly & The Family Stone’s rhythm section, sharply produced by Sly Stone drummer Greg Errico, and featured backing vocals from Sylvester and the Pointer Sisters.

This 12-inch vinyl, officially licensed by Sony, features a superb remix by Mike Maurro, who masterfully reworks the stems. On the B side, you'll find the original version. Since its release in 1982, "Looking Up To You" has cemented its status as a modern soul anthem, co-written by Leon Ware and Zane Grey (of Grey & Hanks) and produced by Webster Lewis, all titans in the genre. Heavily sampled since it’s original release, notably by artists like Zhane ("Hey Mr. DJ") and Ortega Cartel ("Miami Vice").

n 1969, a transformation in Albina was underway. Displaced by the Vanport flood two decades prior, an influx of Black residents had settled in the area after redlining practices among the city’s realty boards provided few other options. A local economy among Albina’s Black residents had flourished for a time, but soon declined due to chronic disinvestment by the city’s elites. As with many urban centers in America, the impending ghetto-ization of the neighborhood developed as the civil rights movement was in full swing. And the citizens of Albina had something to say about it.

During this time, Shades Of Brown came together at the Albina Arts Center - a community hub for practicing artists of all stripes. A product of the Model Cities initiative, the center was established to develop the cultural and intellectual resources in the neighborhood amid the protests and civil unrest of the times. Paul Knauls’ Cotton Club had shuddered its doors in the wake of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. Albina’s Black residents had been forcibly displaced from their homes to make way for urban renewal projects conceived by the Portland Development Commission. And Williams Avenue, the once-vibrant hub for Oregon’s jazz music with myriad Black-owned businesses lining the streets, was at risk of becoming a blighted shell of itself. Left to their own devices, Black artists were organizing to convey truth through their work and the Albina Arts Center was ground zero.

Rehearsing at the Albina Arts Center, members of the Shades Of Brown found one other as a variety of Albina’s musical acts were shifting, separating, reconstituting, and forming anew. The group would feature members of the Cavaliers Unlimited, Little Nolan & The Antoine Brothers, Youthsound, Upepo, and the Norman Sylvester Band. And as luck would have it, Free Meal Ticket - renowned soul singer Wilson Pickett’s group - would disband while on tour in Portland. This left director, composer, and future Grammy recipient Thara Memory en route to the Albina Arts Center. He was quickly recruited to become the bandleader for Shades Of Brown.

Equipped with the ephemeral resources flowing from the Model Cities initiative, Memory organized youth and adults into a variety of ensembles, and with a penchant for results-driven rigor he would furnish his pedagogy via musical boot camp with the Shades Of Brown. The band was required to read and write their music. Before a note was to be played, members were summoned to the blackboard to chalk out their parts on a musical staff. And it was not uncommon that rehearsals consisted of the band being drilled with marching routines, as was common in the tradition of Memory’s southern upbringing. This went on for months. When the results were in, Memory gave the green light for the band to perform. And the Shades Of Brown would have something to say about it.

Celebrating Albina Music Trust’s tenth vinyl release, the story of Shades Of Brown circles back to the label’s first outing, The Gangsters. Both records spotlight the impact of Thara Memory’s tutelage while highlighting the legacy of community-powered arts education in Albina. Even the label’s logo mark is an inspired interpretation of the Albina Arts Center’s motif.

Being the sole recorded output of Shades Of Brown, the album reflects the group’s sense of fellowship as well as the sentiments of its contemporaries in Albina - makers, dreamers, activists, and youth - under-resourced and confounded by the City Of Portland’s blatant disregard. As vocalist Gregg A. Smith lays bare on “Searchin’ For Love”, one can’t help but hold the image of this community and its cry for decency in light of limited services and harm. Over half a century later, we now have this document to ponder. What are we doing to prevent this from happening again?

Soul4Real continues to provide invaluable service to lovers of quality soul music from the 1960s and 1970s, with another carefully curated long-playing selection of incredible music from the enormous vaults of the Ertegun brothers and Jerry Wexler’s Atlantic group of labels.

Atlantic was and is still based in New York, but its repertoire came from all over the USA. In ´Here Come The Tears´ you will hear music from Detroit, Miami, New Orleans, Philadelphia, Houston, Memphis and the Big Apple itself. Most of the featured artists will need no introduction – and that’s how it should be, for they are all legends of black American music, regardless of how well they fared in the US charts. Some tracks are big-ticket items, others can be found on 45 at pocket-friendly prices. Four have never been issued on vinyl until now, including the Drifters’ long-thought-lost version of the O’Jays’ “I Dig Your Act” and Judy Clay’s thrilling take on “The Love Of My Man” – written by Ed Townsend, who also produced the splendid Dee Dee Warwick track that makes its vinyl debut here.

One thing that all these tracks have in common, regardless of their vinyl value, is that they are all priceless examples of soul music, from an era where every US state had its own sound, and every artist their own unique style. There is no reason to list highlights – every track is a highlight! There is also nothing generic or homogenised about anything you’ll hear here – it’s all coming to you straight from the heart and soul. Whether you are hearing most of these tracks for the first time or getting reacquainted with ‘old friends’, there’s more to enjoy on this one album than there is in anything currently being issued in the name of 21st century soul. For Real…

Lend us your ears – Here Come The Tears! Tony Rounce

The first single dropping from Jimi Tenor's new Timmion album "Is There Love In Outer Space?" kicks off like a desert breeze from Nigerien keyboardist Mamman Sani's 1980s cosmic songbook. Perhaps this is the same kind of panorama that Tenor and Cold Diamond & Mink want us to imagine while traversing the two sides of this vinyl single.At the latest, the psychedelic desert blues guitar solo transports us on a cold Sahara sand dune, watching a magical sunrise on Mother Earth, something only a few humans get to witness. This is the type of jam you can close your eyes to and let those colorscapes of your mind fill the space. The minimal vocal parts come through like a welcoming chant for the Sun slowly creeping up in the horizon, ready to extend its burning arms around all things - living and dead equally.With their new collaborative project, Jimi Tenor and Cold Diamond & Mink breathe a new type of life into each others' tried & tested styles - delivering a natural fusion of cosmic and raw soul music. So hop along in this spaceship, and let it ride!

The Montclairs are a five-piece soul vocal group featuring Phil Perry, who is still active as a solo artist. The Montclairs were located in St. Louis, Missouri, which is not Philadelphia, New Jersey, Detroit, or Chicago, and their chorus was sweet and beautiful, with Perry's distinctive falsetto at the center. The group was discovered by Oliver Sane, a big name in the area, and released this album on the prestigious Paula (Jewell) Records label in 1972, produced by Sane.

Fresh from his two full length releases on Broc Records (L’Obsession & Ritmi Moderni) the Italian born, Paris dwelling, composer and multi instrumentalist Louis Fontaine brings WST a

double wammy in the form of Enigma Part 1 & 2.

Inspired by Italian horror/mystery movies, progressive rock and Krautrock of the late 70s. The main theme is arranged in two different ways, like classic film soundtracks and library music. Side A is fast and dramatic with a motorik gait and side B is slower, more moody affair with a

nod to the classic library track ‘Night Moves’.

All tracks written, produced and performed by Louis Fontaine (Drums, percussions, bass, piano, Solina string machine, Arp Odyssey, Mellotron, Chroma Polaris Synthesizer)

Freestyle Records drop a killer UK soul/early street soul reissue LP from 1988, in the form of Rick Clarke's hard to come by 'Time Keeps Moving On' album.

After the success of the Joy compilation album, MTMU’s reissue imprint ‘Music Take Me Back’ now brings us the 12” version including a DJ friendly extended version of Gospel anthem 'The Time Is Right, pressed on a full side. The b-side holds the equally strong 'He’ll Make Everything Alright' as well as a beautiful ballad taken from Joy’s first album in 1979, previously not included in the compilation.

Freshly following their debut LP, Colemine Records is here to introduce the newest 45 from Thee Sinseers.The A-side, "For You" is a man's devotional message that promises it's the real deal this time. The group's sweet, verbed out harmonies set the stage for Joey Quinoñes' artful croon.The B-side is the instrumental version of their album's closing track, "Sinseerly Yours." Here it's aptly renamed "Si Llorarás" (if you will cry). This tune sends the listener off into the sunset with a gentle lap steel guitar tune reminiscent of Santo & Johnny's "Sleepwalk."

Late night `60s R&B caught on tape at JimKirchstein's jack-of-all genres Cuca studio.Re- leased on minuscule pressings into theWiscon- sin wilderness, these 26 sasquatchraretracks uncover the soulful paths betweenthe Chicago, Milw aukee, Rockford, andRockford scenes. Featuring Harvey Scales,Step By Step, Betty Moorer, Seven Sounds,Twiliters, Birdlegs & Pauline, Esquires, Artie& The Pharaohs, and Fantastic Six, this 2xlptell s an alternate his- tory of soul music thatcould only happen in the Hinterl ands onHighway 12.

"heartbeat" is the work of Curtis L. Kendrick, a Rochester-based artist that wore all the hats in conceptualizing and producing his debut solo album, “3RD DEGREE”, released in a 200 cassette run in 1982. Considered somewhat of a holy grail in the collecting world, this is the first official vinyl release. The B-side "heartbeat 23" by Brian Ellis is a dark and stormy re-work/re-creation of Curtis' soulful masterpiece.

Maurice White, the founder and leader of Earth, Wind & Fire and an undisputed soul legend, left us in 2016, leaving behind a treasure trove of unreleased recordings. Teaming up with producer and singer-songwriter Preston Glass, Maurice White's hidden gems come to light in the form of the collection "Manifestation." Although he only officially released one solo album during his lifetime, it turns out that he had recorded numerous wonderful tracks. This collection is like a set of precious demo tracks, akin to uncut diamonds waiting to be polished. If Maurice were still with us, it's undeniable that several hit songs and classics would have been born from these recordings. Filled with catchy melodies showcasing Maurice's genius musical sense, "Manifestation" is a testament to his enduring legacy, reminding us of the many chart-topping songs he brought into the world.

The Pacific Northwest musician John Greekoriginally released "I'm Hot For Your Body" as alimited private press 12" single in 1979 - rumorsabound that only 100 copies were ever made,though much about this record feels apocryphal.Across six minutes of sordid, primal disco-blues,Mr. Greek slowly yields to the power of desire,chasing swirling string synths around a room likethey're ghosts, dousing everything in flange andguitar solos like they're lighter fluid. It's terrifying.It's funky. It's undeniable.With permission from Mr. Greek's estate,we've remastered the original and presented italongside a even-more-unhinged and journeyingversion from Velvet Season & The Hearts OfGold, the duo of Gerry Rooney (co-founder of thelegendary Black Cock edits label) and Joel Martin(of Quiet Village).Not for the faint of heart, this.

An American soul vocal group that would go on to shape the sound of pop music much farther beyond their imaginations, The Ponderosa Twins Plus One featured two sets of identical teenage twins, Alfred and Alvin Pelham, and Keith and Kirk Gardner, along with Ricky Spicer. The group released a couple of singles and a lone album for Cleveland's Saru label in 1971, breaking up and disbanding as adolescence waned. A recent sample darling of both Kanye West and Tyler The Creator, "Bound" has revealed the Ponderosa Twins Plus One as the real Midwest kid soul deal. Numero is proud to present the first official American repressing of the original 1971 release, with fresh remasters from the original analog tapes, two previously unissued bonus tracks, and a replica tip on sleeve, making this an album you're bound to fall in love with.

You likely know the Staples Jr. Singers, the family band from Aberdeen, Mississippi, from their first and only record, 1975"s "When Do We Get Paid". They made that record themselves when they were only teenagers. Finally, in a moment they"ve been waiting for most of their lives, the family is back with their sophomore album, "Searching".Recorded in 2023 in West Point, Mississippi, and Nashville, Tennessee, and produced by Ahmed Gallab, aka Sinkane, the first pressing comes with a booklet of photos by Adam Wissing and notes by Anton Spice.

Previously unreleased soul nugget from the the 1970's Richmond VA scene, two very mellow tunes full of cosmic organ lines, floating choruses and gentle vocal harmonies. If it's on Plut, it ain't a boot!

Castaway Clear Pink Vinyl.Numero's Hottest Sounds Around triogathers castaway late-'70s grooves fromacross the Greater Antilles. Stan Chaman'sTrinidadian Semp concern deliveredWilfred Luckie's wobbly "My Thing" andthe Hamilton Brothers' calypso-discosmash "Music Makes The World Go `Round"in 1978. Across the sea, Frank Penn'sG.B.I studio tracked Stephen Colebrook'sDoobies-inspired "Stay Away From Music"for the cruise ship curious. All threeare housed in a custom Numero sleeveinspired by Edward Seaga's Caribbeanmusic manufacturing and distributionpowerhouse WIRL (West Indies RecordsLtd.)

Numero's Hottest Sounds Around triogathers castaway late-'70s grooves fromacross the Greater Antilles. Stan Chaman'sTrinidadian Semp concern deliveredWilfred Luckie's wobbly "My Thing" andthe Hamilton Brothers' calypso-discosmash "Music Makes The World Go `Round"in 1978. Across the sea, Frank Penn'sG.B.I studio tracked Stephen Colebrook'sDoobies-inspired "Stay Away From Music"for the cruise ship curious. All threeare housed in a custom Numero sleeveinspired by Edward Seaga's Caribbeanmusic manufacturing and distributionpowerhouse WIRL (West Indies RecordsLtd.)

Tropics Green Colored Vinyl.Numero's Hottest Sounds Around triogathers castaway late-'70s grooves fromacross the Greater Antilles. Stan Chaman'sTrinidadian Semp concern deliveredWilfred Luckie's wobbly "My Thing" andthe Hamilton Brothers' calypso-discosmash "Music Makes The World Go `Round"in 1978. Across the sea, Frank Penn'sG.B.I studio tracked Stephen Colebrook'sDoobies-inspired "Stay Away From Music"for the cruise ship curious. All threeare housed in a custom Numero sleeveinspired by Edward Seaga's Caribbeanmusic manufacturing and distributionpowerhouse WIRL (West Indies RecordsLtd.)

To celebrate 10 years of one of London’s most loved underground club nights, Tangent, Mr Bongo are thrilled to launch this new compilation series. Crafted by its two residents, John Gómez and Nick the Record, it aims to transmit a taste of Tangent’s spirit. A party rooted in inclusivity and open-mindedness, whose name captures the spontaneous switches in musical direction that are a defining element of their nights. For the compilation, the pair have cherry-picked a selection of their prized, rare and dancefloor-ready tracks from around the globe, that have soundtracked the past decade of parties.

Friends for close to 20 years, music lovers, record obsessives and internationally renowned DJs in their own right, John and Nick have two lifetimes worth of musical knowledge to draw from. John a long-standing NTS Radio resident and compiler for Music From Memory. Nick one of the UK’s go-to record dealers, resident DJ since the ‘90s at one of Japan’s pioneering parties, Life Force, and co-captain / co-edit-expert of Record Mission with Dan Tyler (Idjut Boys).

In 2014, the pair decided to bring some of Life Force’s grassroots principles to the UK, whilst channelling underground clubbing institution Plastic People’s meticulous attitude to sound. Tangent grew from being a small gathering of friends, to an established fixture in London’s nightlife, whilst always maintaining a strict no guest DJ policy. “As London’s clubs have become increasingly reliant on international guests, we wanted to emphasize the importance of a club night growing through its residents”, John and Nick reflect. With 10 years of the duo at the helm, an intimate connection between DJ and dancefloor has been built, allowing for freedom of expression on both sides of the decks.

Tangent reaches around the globe and across different eras to make connections that stimulate emotional reverberations in the unfamiliar. Where the blissfully Balearic ‘Laberinto’ by Miguel Perikás, goes hand-in-hand with the Cameroonian hip-house of King B.’s ‘Love is Crazy’. The thundering ‘Amek Amek’ by L'Innovateur Djoe Ahmed et le Zoukabyle, rubs shoulders with the soulful Caribbean-influenced touch of Champagn’s ‘Bel Ti Négress’. And Pellegrin El Kady’s afro-cosmic ‘Seiva de Carnaval’, crosses paths with Kajou’s Kompa disco anthem ‘Tet Chajé’.

Tangent’s longevity is in part down to it having always embraced contemporary sounds. The sub-rattling bass of Srirajah Sound System’s stunning Molam dub stepper ‘Si Phan Don Lovers Rock’ and the slow, woozy mantra of leftfield dancehall explorer Androo’s ‘Lyriso’, are two shining examples.

This compilation represents an ongoing dialogue between past and present, transporting listeners to the heart of a pure musical experience, where open minds and open hearts are eager to follow the tangent.

Perhaps one of the most exciting and anticipated projects in the world of heavy instrumental music is Parlor Greens, a fresh organ trio on Colerine Records! You could say that Parlor Greens are greater than the sum of their parts.. however, the individual parts are simply stellar on their own. Tim Carman (ga-20) on drums, Jimmy James (True Loves, formerly Delvon Lamar Organ Trio) on guitar, and Adam Scone (Scone Cash Players, The Sugarman 3) on organ. Parlor Greens started off as an idea before it even had a name. Carman had been chatting with Colemine label boss Terry Cole about their shared love for organ combo records of yesterday on labels like Blue Note and Prestige. Cole said he'd love to have an organ trio be the first project at the label's new studio, Portage Lounge, located in Loveland, Ohio, So when Carman tapped James and Scone for the session, the stage was set. Carman and Cole had started work a day early to dial in the drum sound, so when the rest of this murderer's row arrived they hit the ground running. It was instant chemistry, Within the first ten minutes of everyone plugging in, a song was written and recorded, "West Memphis". And over the next three days, these three maestros conducted a beautiful and soulful symphony straight to tape. As natural and fun as three old friends getting together after a long absence, only this was the first time they had written and performed together. True magic. So this is the result of that session. Eleven outs. Ten originals. Two sides. All killer, no filler. Straight to the old reliable Tascam 3BB tape machine, mixed up nice and dirty for your enjoyment. Parlor Greens are proud to present their debut long player, in Green / We Dream.

The Funk & Soul Sessions was recorded live at the iconic Abbey Road Studios. Originally recorded exclusively for Abbey Road Masters label as two library albums exclusively for TV and Film, the label decided to press just 250 copies for fans and collectors.

* Speedometer also celebrate their 25th anniversary and so this limited edition LP showcases their classic soul sound on side A featuring the powerhouse vocals of SheZar and Angelo Starr. On B side Speedometer deliver their signature sound of hard hitting heavy funk played live as an 8 piece band

Deniece Williams' refreshingly cool cover is reissued in Japan in a delusional jacket!

Side A is a refreshing cover of the mellow soul classic “Free” by Deniece Williams, and side B is a bold cover of the soul classic “Wishing On A star” by Rose Royse. The B-side is also a bold cover of the soul classic Rose Royse's “Wishing On A star.” The beat is fast and furious, and the melody is mysterious. Both sides of this single can be used.

Originally released in 1972 by the New Jersey vocal group Soul Generation, this album was produced by Paul Kaiser and is known as one of the greatest sweet soul albums of the 70's. P-vine last reissued this album in 1995 but that edition has already become difficult to find, so P-vine has decided to reissue it a second time in order to promote this wonderful work in Japan and around the world.

The album features medium numbers, including a cover of the Rascals' "Ray Of Hope', and the harmonies created by falsetto lead Cliff Perkins and the band members have not faded after more than half a century. The playing by Joe Sample (key), Chuck Rainey (b) and Paul Humphrey (ds) is also excellent. "Praying ForA Miracle" and "I Wonder What She's Doin'", which were only included on the single, are additionally included only on this edition.

Known for her powerful vocals, dynamic stage presence, and diverse musical influences, LA-based soul and funk singer Nikka Costa returns from a musical career break with future-forward disco-inspired sounds on ‘Dirty Disco’.

The lyric “Everyone is welcome, everyone’s an Avatar” denotes a place where anyone can go to be themselves and let their freak flag fly! and sets the tone for her disco and soul fused, progressive album, which is recorded with and produced by Justin Stanley (Prince, Jamie Lidell, Beck etc). Along with the talents of versatile musicians such as Brandon Coleman (Kamasi Washington, Thundercat, Donald Glover, Flying Lotus), Greg Phillinganes (Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder) and Kaveh Rastegar (John Legend, Beck), Nikka Costa invites you to immerse yourself in her “Dirty Disco” world.

“Dirty Disco is about a place anyone can go to be themselves and let their freak flag fly! It’s about a place where no one is looking, no one cares what you're doing or what you're into. It could be a disco, but it could also be another planet or headspace or vibe. It's dark and sparkly, blue and purple. Gritty, raw and sexy. Whatever you want it to be.” - Nikka Costa

Kashmere Stage Band (ksb), founded by music teacher Conrad O. Johnson was an elite performing unit of the student band at Kashmere High School, Houston, Texas, from the late 1960s until 1978. All original Kashmere LPs had 1000 copies or less originally pressed, which were sold both locally and around the world as the band toured. And now, P-vine is proud to present the historically renowned albums from the band on limited reissue vinyl! some of them will be reissued on vinyl for the first time.

[Items line-up] Kashmere Stage Band / Our Thing ('69) Kashmere Stage Band / Bumper To Bumper Soul ('70) ※First time reissued on vinyl Kashmere Stage Band / Thunder Soul ('71) ※First time reissued on vinyl Kashmere Stage Band / Zero Point ('72) Kashmere Stage Band / Kashmere "73" Live in Concert ('73) ※First time reissued on vinyl Kashmere Stage Band / Out Of Gas But Still Burning ('74) Kashmere Stage Band / Plays Originals ('74) Kashmere Stage Band / Expo '75 Concert Tour Japan/Okinawa ('75) ※First time reissued on vinyl

Kashmere Stage Band (ksb), founded by music teacher Conrad O. Johnson was an elite performing unit of the student band at Kashmere High School, Houston, Texas, from the late 1960s until 1978. All original Kashmere LPs had 1000 copies or less originally pressed, which were sold both locally and around the world as the band toured. And now, P-vine is proud to present the historically renowned albums from the band on limited reissue vinyl! some of them will be reissued on vinyl for the first time.

[Items line-up] Kashmere Stage Band / Our Thing ('69) Kashmere Stage Band / Bumper To Bumper Soul ('70) ※First time reissued on vinyl Kashmere Stage Band / Thunder Soul ('71) ※First time reissued on vinyl Kashmere Stage Band / Zero Point ('72) Kashmere Stage Band / Kashmere "73" Live in Concert ('73) ※First time reissued on vinyl Kashmere Stage Band / Out Of Gas But Still Burning ('74) Kashmere Stage Band / Plays Originals ('74) Kashmere Stage Band / Expo '75 Concert Tour Japan/Okinawa ('75) ※First time reissued on vinyl

These two Leon Thomas cuts have become increasingly sought after by DJs in recent years. So, we’re delighted to pair both full-length versions on this 33rpm 7”.For his 1973 Flying Dutchman LP “Full Circle” Thomas teamed up with top New York session players like Pee Wee Ellis, Joe Farrell and Neal Creque. The latter composed the apocalyptic funky jazz of ‘It’s My Life I’m Fighting For’. Running for ten minutes it’s a classic. A.IT’S MY LIFE I’M FIGHTING FOR – Leon ThomasB.SHAPE YOUR MIND TO DIE – Leon Thomas

Freshly following their debut LP, Colemine Records is here to introduce the newest 45 from Thee Sinseers.The A-side, "For You" is a man's devotional message that promises it's the real deal this time. The group's sweet, verbed out harmonies set the stage for Joey Quinoñes' artful croon.The B-side is the instrumental version of their album's closing track, "Sinseerly Yours." Here it's aptly renamed "Si Llorarás" (if you will cry). This tune sends the listener off into the sunset with a gentle lap steel guitar tune reminiscent of Santo & Johnny's "Sleepwalk."

After more than a decade of honing their prodigious improv chops, the Seattle trio enters the musical underground with their magnum opus, poised to be heard by true heads worldwide. Longtime Afrocop fans know, they are inveterate sonic chameleons. They’ve been fine tuning their chops for over a decade on the live circuit, playing everything from corporate gigs to psychedelic-music festivals to residencies at classy Italian restaurants and wine bars, and in many spaces in-between. No matter the setting in which they flex their dynamic creativity, keyboardist Noel Brass Jr., drummer Andy Sells, and bassist Carlos Tulloss flaunt an uncanny versatility: they can beautify the background like ambient masters, get up with it à la Miles Davis’ filthiest electric-era band, or fling you into deepest, fusionoid space on a nanosecond’s notice.

Original pioneers of rare groove, Push, make a welcome return with an existing and exciting album. Originally released in 2004, now 20 years later it’s still alive and kicking. “Push People” is a cross pollenation of classic underground rare groove and contemporary feel good funk n' soul in the shape of heartfelt songs and incredible instrumental pieces. Push emerged from the underground London club scene in 1987, where they were at the heart of a community that thrived on JB inspired Funk, Blaxploitation soundtracks and raw soul-jazz. Push toured Europe and Japan and were regulars onstage at Gilles Peterson's legendary Dingwalls’ Talking Loud & Saying Something sessions. They have worked with the likes of Style Council's Paul Weller and Mick Talbot and have long provided the soulful foundation for the regular European tours of US divas like Candi Staton and Marlena Shaw. The triumvirate of key band members Crispin Taylor (drums), Ernie McKone (bass) and Mark Vandergucht (guitar) also doubled up as the rhythm section for the innovative Galliano – a conscious and wayward band that sold in excess of 800, 000 albums. Push are one of the mainstays of the Eighties Rare Groove and Acid Jazz scene alongside Brand New Heavies, Young Disciples and Soul II Soul. Push is on a mission, bringing a breath of fresh air and a wealth of musical experience into a very popular scene for people that "Feel the Funk!"

"the Number ONE SET AND Sound" is musician Danny Balis (bastards OF Soul) and producer Jeff "skin" Wade teaming up to turn several of Balis' lockdown demos into grooves of 70's American R&B and West African funk with hints of afrobeat, jazz and Latin soul. Features Large Professor of Main Source, Adrian Quesada of Black Pumas, Uncle ROY & Spice (US!) and The D.O.C.

Get a taste of everybody's favourite terrestrial with something extra, Jimi Tenor and his fresh brand of galactic balladry with two single versions from his upcoming album on Timmion Records, "Is There Love In Outer Space?". On the A-side, the title track effortlessly merges cosmic synth flourishes with a soulful backbeat, Jimi's smooth vocal and flute stylings, delivering a splendid questioning continuum to Sun Ra's similarly named statement.Flipping to the B-side, the mostly instrumental "Orbiting Telesto" launches us to the outer rings of Saturn with a healthy helping of vintage sci-fi movie soundtrack and library music themes. Accompanied by the down and dirty energy of Cold Diamond & Mink, Jimi's seasoned artistry shines through, showcasing his ability to blend celestial sounds with gritty moondust funk.With these two tracks, Tenor teases our appetite for the two cosmically themed albums in the pipeline for 2024. These songs crafted together with the Timmion crew serve as a testament to Jimi's unique ability to create captivating moods that transcend the usual.

This is a collection of recordings by Geoff Bastow, English composer active in the 1970s to 1980s, preserved on the prestigious German library label "SONOTON." The opening resonates with dazzling synthesizer phrases, and the dynamic sound created by the incorporated drum machine in an inorganic manner can be considered the very essence of synth-wave or perhaps futuristic funk.

The 7inch single that marks the opening of Nautilus' new project in 2024 is now available! It features Nautilus' cover of Des'ree's "Life" featuring Emi Tawata on vocals, and Stevie Wonder's "Master Blaster (Jammin'). The project opens with a soulful cover of Des'ree's "Life," featuring Emi Tawata, a close friend of the band who also made a splash with her cover of Terri Walker's "Caught Up. The flip side is an instrumental cover of Stevie Wonder's "Master Blaster (Jammin')," which is arranged with a sense of speed while maintaining the splendor of the original. Nautilus will tour Germany again this year, as they did last year, and expect to see them in 2024 as one of the future leaders of rare groove.