Funk | Soul 54 Items

Jimetta Rose and The Voices of Creation announce the release of new album Things Are Getting Better via Day Dreamer Recordings. A spirit-lifting, soul-stirring devotional that effortlessly unites house, funk, soul, RnB and hip-hop influences, Things Are Getting Better hears the LA-based vocal group reach new heights to spread a message of faith and togetherness in troubled times.

Harvest is the first Balthvs album composed by all three band members and the name reflects where the band is currently. After 4 years of the industry grind they have seen massive growth in the digital sphere with over 15 million streams; as well as gracing theaters and festivals across North America and Europe. It is truly Harvest time. Recorded in a villa amidst lush tropical hills in Colombia, Harvest is optimistic, groovy, and relaxing. The trio spent a month-long sojourn at a tropical summer house in La Mesa, Colombia to record. As the band recalls, “More than a studio we wanted to be inspired by nature. So we brought our recording equipment there and started working.” The tropical landscape served as more than just a backdrop; it was the wellspring of inspiration for Balthvs. Unlike their previous albums, where Balthazar Aguirre took the lead in recording, composing, producing, and arranging, this time around, the music emerged as a collective effort, with all three members contributing equally to the creation of every song. It is a sonic testament to a period of profound artistic and personal growth. The band comments, “It defines our closure with this beautiful stage of our life and career as friends and musicians.” The full album features vocals that harmonize like instruments, weaving lyrical poetry into a tranquil groove. Most evident in songs like “Like Coconut Water,” an effervescent song that captures the essence of a tropical escape. “Anouk” is a gorgeous groove dedicated to the house cat at La Mesa, the sphinx-like guardian who set watch during the recording sessions. “Mango Season,” a laid-back, funky, and soulful instrumental groove perfect for relaxing, skateboarding, and looking at clouds. “Aguacero” is one of the few compositions with lyrics and sung in Spanish by bassist, vocalist Johanna Mercuriana. “Lovin’” and “Sun & Moon” were released during the band's first North American tour where they were greeted by sold-out shows and critical accolades from their Sxsw sets.

Miraculous 7inch collaboration single "I don't know" by Chara and In-sist is finally re-released after 10 years! The superb hip tune "On & On" by In-sist is included on the B-side. Chara, a singer who has established a strong position in the J-Pop scene as a Japanese girl pop icon, has clearly etched her roots in black soul music on this eternal soul classic!

The second single from the well-received previous release, "Samurai," is now available. This time, the song "Pastime Paradise," written by Stevie Wonder and released in 1979 by Ray Barretto, has been updated in the Central style! In 2024, Central is preparing to release its first album in many years, but before that, another strong 7-inch is on the way. The groove created by the percussion, bass, and keyboards working in unison, and the exquisite arrangement of the horn ensemble, which is full of Central style, is a true gem.

This electric compilation features Sorg who showcases his house inspiration, Zerolex Trio who continues their journey into the world of jazz-infused club music, Kopow who blends kenyan trap with silky beats by collaborating with Killer Bas, and Flow-er who engages in a funk-imbued discussion. As an exclusive combination of unique and exciting artists, Los Cumbabas will fit perfectly in your summer playlist. It's also an opportunity for the label to unveil Pierre Chiffonnier, our flagship project, involving the sweet melodies of the young duo Poligone.

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?

Spinna B-ill's sweet cover of Al Jarreau's 1981 classic! A double-sided 7" record featuring a sweet cover number of Al Jarreau's 1981 classic "We're In This Love Together" by Spinna B-ill and a guitar instrumental tune by Yota Kobayashi on the B-side!

Wolfgang Valbrun carries the torch for all great soul musicians with an incredible debut album, which looks at human frailty that's shaped by his lived experiences and perception of current affairs. Straddling the lines between soul, rock and blues, Wolfgang provides introspective insights through raw unapologetic lyrics, married with the incredible musicianship of his band. Nothing is off the table as 'Flawed By Design' examines relationships, money, religion, greed, growing civil unrest and the antagonism by authorities towards the marginalised. Institutional and social matters are addressed with this refreshing body of work, which calls for humanity to reflect on who we are, and where our actions will lead us. This Lp/cd comes with two extra tracks not found on the digital version of the album.

This collaboration between Spanish producer Nueen and Manc vocalist / rapper Iceboy Violet - who has previously sprinkled their magic dust across Hyperdub releases from aya and Loraine James - traces the arc of a four year relationship, memorialising its highs and documenting its lows, processing, reflecting, and then ending with the ecstatic spark of new love. It's a magical, intimate and heartfelt album, sometimes anguished but often enchanting.Nueen's music responds with foggy, but richly detailed, production. Smudgy drill-laced beats contrast with curdled, spiralling chords, at times drawing out a malevolent ambience. `You Said You'd Hold My Hand Through The Fire' is an immensely affecting and lucid album, powerfully wrought, ultimately hopeful.

Slowly feat. Mizuki Ohira "Drippin' Summer", a popular song that was included in a series of popular compilation series in Japan last year, and has over 10,000 listeners in less than a week after its release, is finally available on 7-inch analog! Slowly, which has been selling out 7-inch singles in rapid succession, welcomes next-generation singer/songwriter Mizuki Ohira as the featured vocalist for this smoky, summer anthem with vocals that mix coolness and passion. The coupling track features a superb Dub Mix by e-mura of Bim One Production!

“I GOT A Feeling” was penned by Holland/Dozier/Holland for the Four Tops and first appeared on their 1966 album On Top. Great as that is – what’s not to like about the Four Tops – it is Ms. Randolph’s 1967 cover, and debut Motown recording, that stole the hearts of the emerging Northern Soul scene at the turn of the Seventies. A non-hit at the time, it has come to represent the sound that underpins and defines a Northern Soul dance record. Almost sixty years on it still fills the floor, compelling young and old to spin, stomp or shuffle to its joyous beat. Our flip-side – “My Love Is Your Love (Forever)” – is best known by the Isley Brothers and is perhaps the most treasured of their rare soul recordings (also available from Outta Sight, Sev014). Barbara’s unreleased take was completely unknown to the scene until Universal America unleashed it as a digital download in 2015. Barbara Randolph only released two singles for Motown on their Soul imprint. Perhaps Berry Gordy couldn’t see past her acting career? Whatever the reasoning at the time, a further 15+ songs were recorded and sadly remained in the vault until after Barbara’s passing in 2002.

Timmion Records adds new talent to their ranks withRosettes' latest 7" vinyl single, introducing two tracks bythe group that seamlessly blend elements of soul and jazzwith a smooth pop sensibility. As a group that some havecoined "Khruangbin of the North" Rosettes bring a freshcinematic perspective to contemporary soul music.On the A-side, "Souvenir", offers a mellow and introspectivedeep soul experience, showcasing lead singer Tytti Roto'sknack for emotive storytelling and displaying the band'sversatility and melodic depth. Meanwhile, the B-side's"Green Ray," they deliver a psychedelic soul grooverpropelled by a funky backbeat, inviting listeners on arootsy sonic journey that might be best observed behindcolor-tinged 1960s sunglasses.Faithfully drawing inspiration from innovators likeCymande and Isaac Hayes the band infuses their soundwith experimental elements, but still ensure that the songsremain catchy and accessible. These two understatedbangers will surely win the hearts of anybody, who likestheir soul raw and independent.

Two great versions of this soul dancer. "Bend a little" - The Supremes cut was released on a triple back cd and now first time on vinyl, perfect for all soul collectors Magic Disco Machine, offers a movin and groovin instrumental version, essential 7" double sider.
x600 copies only

Singer, songwriter and producer Johnny Burgos returns with veteran producer Jeremy Page (Kendra Morris, Czarface, MF Doom) for "Hit Me Like," the instrumental is dripping with retro soul nostalgia, serving up the drums and bass-forward and funky, under a blanket of buttery guitar chords. The production carries Burgos' silky smooth and heartfelt delivery effortlessly, offering a brilliant take on a timeless-sounding, soul-inspired love song.
Singer, songwriter, and producer Johnny Burgos returns with
veteran soul producer, Jeremy Page, (Kendra Morris, Czarface, MF Doom, That Handsome
Devil) for "Get Back." The fourth single off of the duo's upcoming album titled, 'All I Ever Wonder,' is a vulnerable retrospective of a love gone cold, with hopes of rekindling the
magic that once kept its flame alive. In true Neo Soul form, the song is driven heavily by the
drum and bass groove, distinctly reminiscent of an early 2000's J Dilla beat. Page's signature
colorful chords evoke the struggle in Burgos' story, as he confronts his inability to accept the fate
of his relationship and let go of the magic it once embodied.

Johnny Burgos is a Brooklyn - born singer, songwriter, producer & engineer. His brand of retro-soul embodies a
raw uncompromising sound revealing beauty from pain, hope from despair, and the will to keep fighting.
Influenced by his uncle and world-class percussionist, Andre Martinez, growing up Johnny developed a
fascination with the percussive rhythms of salsa and soul music, eventually manifesting into a devoted passion
for hip-hop production using an Akai MPC. With influences from Michael Jackson, OutKast, J Dilla, Lauryn Hill
and D'Angelo, Johnny's music draws upon the core principles of R&B, while encompassing elements of
hip-hop, funk, pop, salsa, and reggae. Collaborations include artists such as DJ Skizz, Mobb Deep & M.O.P.,
Marco Polo, Frans Mernick, and Liza Colby (The Gold Setting) and his band Bridge City Hustle, with whom he
toured nationally.

As a solo artist Johnny debuted with back-to-back brand endorsements from French's Mustard and Samsung
US, using them as a platform to launch his 2018 EP Love Through it All. In March 2021 his debut album Gone
Into The Grey received critical acclaim and has since been added to multiple editorial playlists by Spotify, Apple
Music and Tidal, resulting in an ever-growing listening fan base. In 2022, Burgos' song "Wild About You" was
then used as the soundtrack for Neiman Marcus' It's Your Moment global streaming campaign.

Les Disques Bongo Joe are proud to be home of the new volume of DJ soFa"s well known curation work Elsewhere series with Elsewhere CC! This ninth exploration of our beloved Bruxelles based cratedigger and producer (Mameen 3, Nyati Mayi & The astral Synth Transmitters, ...) is an ode to summer and groove!The ninth edition in the Elsewhere series is a real digger"s paradise of tropical gems, from Trinidad to Brazil, Poland, Dominica, and beyond. The compilation is an eclectic mix of outernational, tropical-wave, Calypso, multi-rhythmic percussive beats, lo-fi disco jams, and other such styles that lie somewhere in that magical in-between zone. Compiled by Brussels-based DJ, tastemaker and producer soFa, Elsewhere Vol.9 CC is a perfect collection of Balearic, good-vibe, sunshine rarities, to soundtrack a cocktail session on a reclusive, tropical beach, featuring rare tunes and some of the artist"s own unique productions and collaborations.

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)

"Celestial Echo is thrilled to introduce the reissue of Brutal Force's revered classic, 'Dreams For Sale.' Originally released, this soulful gem has maintained its status as a sought-after treasure by DJs and electronic music enthusiasts for years. A favourite of Floating Points, Jeremy Underground and Frederika

With original copies becoming more and more elusive, and only released on poor quality styrene, the decision to reissue this soulful gem was an easy one.

Celestial Echo proudly presents the re- issue on a limited edition 7-inch vinyl re- cord, remastered and pressed on heavyweight vinyl for an authentic ana- log experience. This exclusive release is adorned with a striking picture sleeve and redesigned labels, adding a con- temporary touch to this soulful master- piece.

CER001 gained huge support from DJs such as Gilles Peterson, Craig Charles and Ross Allen, with more to be expected as the label grows."

Surfing on the wave of 1980’s Nippon’s bubble of electronics and economics, fashion and the femme fatale, explosion of its pop culture and computerized technopop, and the world’s sudden fascination with everything Japan, a group of young studio musicians stemming from Tokyo’s downtown of Akihabara and Kanda came together for ad hoc recording sessions between 1982-1986. Their goal… produce the next domestic hit album, a travelogue of city pop inspired by the urban yet lonely sprawl of now globally admired Asia. Yet their vision of the concept album under the City Heights moniker never came to see the light due to the group’s sudden disbandment after the tragic loss of love.

Led by the guitarist come arranger-producer Hasegawa Joe (Jô) and keyboardist Katsurag Mariko, the City Heights sessions drew form Tokyo’s musical melting pot of early 1980s with a distinct blend of jazz, funk, boogie, spiced with a local touch of Nippon’s finest electronic instruments.

Now, restored, remastered and occasionally redubbed by Japanese music connoisseur Sten Saluveer aka Mildhans, this second, highly anticipated volume will take you on a journey through the love-longing nights of Aoyama, to the festive matsuri bustle of Jô’s hometown of Kanda, the Jasmine dreaming of Taipei, and a quirky nod to a then legendary musical superhero.

LRK are excited to announce their next full album release Lrklp-08

'all I Ever Wonder' By Johnny Burgos

Available on Lp/cd/digital

Singer, songwriter, and producer Johnny Burgos converges with veteran soul producer, Jeremy Page, (Kendra Morris, Czarface, MF Doom) to offer their first joint album together titled, 'All I Ever Wonder.' The album is a vividly vulnerable and honest effort by Burgos, lyrically and vocally, supported effortlessly by Page's masterful production. The pairing of the two seems meant to be, with a sound steeped in retro soul techniques, the album is equal parts novelty and nostalgia, equalling a timelessness that speaks to the humanity in all of us. All I Ever Wonder will be released on Vinyl, CD and all digital platforms on Friday, June 28th, 2024 via UK-based Soul label LRK Records.

Johnny - "Jeremy and I have been ships passing in the night for years now. However, our first official collaboration was a 2021 remix of my song The Grey, which featured his long-time co-collaborator Kendra Morris. From the get-go, the musical chemistry was strong, so we took a shot at writing some original tunes. Since then, we've locked in on a creative groove and churned out a bunch of material. As we learned how to complement each other's musical strengths, the project took on more form and purpose, exploring heavier subject matter and expanding its range of genres. I'm pretty sure that's what makes this project so fun for us, and possibly what the early gatekeepers and listeners resonated with most. Neither of us expected such a reception to the music, which only made us more excited to hone in with more intention towards a goal. This also allowed me to bring more raw ideas to the table and have the confidence in Jeremy to hear the potential, then work his magic to extrapolate on my foundation. The teamwork in this effort was inspiring as we listened and referred to each other in every step of the process, and had a crew of killer musicians on deck for when we needed the extra feels on some joints.

We worked really hard on this record and hope it reconnects our listeners to being human in a visceral way. It's accessible, honest, and soulful because I wanted it to speak to anyone who still wants music to relate to. Music to help you through the valleys, to celebrate the peaks, and handle everything in between. It's a journey of the soul that explores ego, insecurity, love, loss, survival, enlightenment and trusting the process. It's truly 'All I Ever Wonder.' "

"All I Ever Wonder" will have its digital release through LRK Records on all platforms on Friday, June 28th, 2024.

Johnny Burgos is a Brooklyn - born singer, songwriter, producer & engineer. His brand of future-soul embodies a raw uncompromising sound revealing beauty from pain, hope from despair, and the will to keep fighting. Especially influenced by his uncle and world-class percussionist, Andre Martinez, Johnny grew a fascination with the percussive rhythms of salsa and soul music, eventually manifesting into a devoted passion for Hip Hop production using an Akai MPC. With influences from Michael Jackson, OutKast, J Dilla, Lauryn Hill and D'Angelo, Johnny's music draws upon the core principles of R&B, while encompassing elements of Hip Hop, Funk, Pop, Salsa and Reggae.

Johnny has collaborated with DJ Skizz, for Mobb Deep & M.O.P., Marco Polo, Frans Mernick, Liza Colby (The Gold Setting) and led his band Bridge City Hustle, with whom he toured nationally.

As a solo artist Johnny debuted with back-to-back brand endorsements from French's Mustard and Samsung US, using them as a platform to launch his 2018 EP 'Love Through it All.' His debut album 'Gone Into The Grey' was released to critical acclaim in March of 2021 and has since been added to multiple editorial playlists by Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal, creating exponential growth. In 2022, Burgos' song 'Wild About You' was heard as the soundtrack to Neiman Marcus' "It's Your Moment" global streaming campaign. Johnny's currently amid promoting his latest album, The Tangent Tape, performing with his band The Butter, recording new collaborations and preparing his upcoming LP with Jeremy Page & LRK Records.
credits
releases June 28, 2024

Electro-boogie-machine 'Straight Line' is taken from 'Cool Cool', the upcoming third album by British multi-hyphenate James Alexander Bright. "'Straight Line' started out as a wonky homage to 80s & 90s radio", says James. "It's based on the memory of meeting someone you want to stay up all night listening to music with".

James' passionate voice, pitched somewhere between Eddie Chacon, Beck and Michael McDonald, takes a confident lead over a melange of body-popping LinnDrum beats, a host of swooping, fuzzy synths, and backseat-rocking bass. Initially written and recorded at his home studio in the rolling hills of the Hampshire countryside, 'Straight Line' was completed with regular collaborator Peter Lyons in East London.

It's backed on 7" vinyl with the wonky dancefloor wobbler 'Oh My', sounding something like Theo Parrish producing Arthur Russell after a sleepless night.

The past six years has seen James release a veritable treasure trove of music, including 'Mallorca' and 'Strange Folk' EPs, debut album 'Headroom', joyous second 'Float', an album of collaborations and reworks with cosmic Americana-disco DJ/producer duo Flying Mojito Bros, and a new project with Groove Armada's Tom Findlay as Bright & Findlay.

James balances music alongside the creative duality of a job in illustration and the responsibilities and constraints that come with raising a young family. Utilising any spare moment to write and record new ideas, his creative output under various projects had been relentless. Turning his back on apathetic major label offers in his early 20s, he's released through cult DIY label Tape Club Records, German stalwart !K7 Music and now with Scottish tastemaker Athens Of The North, presenting an evolving vision of a sound that has touched on everything from outsider art-rock to machine funk, mystic folk to experimental jazz.

A dynamic set of urgent funkers, gentle soul ballads, head-nodders, fuzzy folkers and straight-up disco bangers; album 'Cool Cool' is set for release on 26th July via Athens Of The North.

Timmion Records adds new talent to their ranks withRosettes' latest 7" vinyl single, introducing two tracks bythe group that seamlessly blend elements of soul and jazzwith a smooth pop sensibility. As a group that some havecoined "Khruangbin of the North" Rosettes bring a freshcinematic perspective to contemporary soul music.On the A-side, "Souvenir", offers a mellow and introspectivedeep soul experience, showcasing lead singer Tytti Roto'sknack for emotive storytelling and displaying the band'sversatility and melodic depth. Meanwhile, the B-side's"Green Ray," they deliver a psychedelic soul grooverpropelled by a funky backbeat, inviting listeners on arootsy sonic journey that might be best observed behindcolor-tinged 1960s sunglasses.Faithfully drawing inspiration from innovators likeCymande and Isaac Hayes the band infuses their soundwith experimental elements, but still ensure that the songsremain catchy and accessible. These two understatedbangers will surely win the hearts of anybody, who likestheir soul raw and independent.

"Witchoo" is a light-as-a-feather funk number powered by Mike Montgomery'swiggly bassline, and Aaron Frazer and Durand Jones' engaging high/low vocalharmonies, all imbued with a quiet, but unmistakable confidence. Jazzy keys andambient conversation lend the song a smoothly celebratory vibe, as do its group-chant choruses: "Come through, bring the crew / I just wanna be witchoo!" Drivenby effortlessly tight musicianship, "Witchoo" is an irresistible ode to getting togetherand having a good time_with a cathartic summer right around the corner in theStates, the band's timing couldn't be better. Seeing Frazer, Jones and TheIndications moving from isolation to joyous togetherness in the accompanyingvisual (dir. Weird Life) just hammers the excitement home."Love Will Work It Out" finds Durand Jones reflecting on the state of America in2020. Ultimately, the song's message is one of optimism, as Jones declares on thechorus that "love will work it out." "That comes from my grandmother, who raisedme and really believed in what Dr. King stood for," he told Mojo. "She's long gonenow, but after George Floyd died, and I was feeling despair and doubt, I'd thinkabout things that she would say. And that song is the sort of thing she would tellme, like, it's hard right now, but don't give up."

Colemine Records is proud to announce a brand new pressing of Witchoo / Love Will Work It Out, on limited edition "Midnight Blue" color vinyl variant. "Witchoo" is a light-as-a-feather funk number powered by Mike Montgomery's wiggly bassline, and Aaron Frazer Durand Jones' engaging high/low vocal harmonies, all imbued with quiet, but unmistakable confidence. Jazzy keys ambient conversation lend the song smoothly celebratory vibe, as do its group-chant choruses: Come through, bring crew / I just wanna be witchoo!" Driven effortlessly tight musicianship, an irresistible ode to getting together having good time_cathartic summer right around corner in States, band's timing couldn't better. Seeing Frazer, Jones The Indications moving from isolation joyous togetherness accompanying visual (dir. Weird Life) hammers excitement home."Witchoo" is a light-as-a-feather funk number powered by Mike Montgomery's wiggly bassline, and Aaron Frazer Durand Jones' engaging high/low vocal harmonies, all imbued with quiet, but unmistakable confidence. Jazzy keys ambient conversation lend the song smoothly celebratory vibe, as do its group-chant choruses: Come through, bring crew / I just wanna be witchoo!" Driven effortlessly tight musicianship, an irresistible ode to getting together having good time_cathartic summer right around corner in States, band's timing couldn't better. Seeing Frazer, Jones The Indications moving from isolation joyous togetherness accompanying visual (dir. Weird Life) hammers excitement home."Love Will Work It Out" finds Durand Jones reflecting on the state of America in 2020. Ultimately, song's message is one optimism, as declares chorus that love will work it out." That comes from my grandmother, who raised me and really believed what Dr. King stood for," he told Mojo. She's long gone now, but after George Floyd died, I was feeling despair doubt, I'd think about things she would say. And song sort thing tell me, like, it's hard right don't give up.""Love Will Work It Out" finds Durand Jones reflect...

Boogie and funk don Tim Tucker hails from Northern Cali and is half of the Love Cryme duo. He has been digging in his vaults to offer up two songs for this limited new vinyl release on Trusechool and they have both been reworked by Knoe1. First up is the brilliantly blissed-out boogie and retro synth work of 'U Cant Run' complete with a sultry vocal that soon gets under the skin. 'Disco Lights' (Knoe1 rework) then keeps it deep and smoochy with jumbled disco percussion and noodling jazz chords all topped off with some superb synth work. Two real gems here, then, on a mad-limited 7".

Outrageous Norge-Funk™ from Lyskestrekk !! Heavyweight, loose and live organic goodness... Limited as ever and totally essential !

Mitos & Ritos, the debut EP by the Ecuadorian group Cruzloma, consolidates in its six songs a spirit of promoting traditional rhythms in contemporary styles, a process of reinvention and self-discovery in homage to the indigenous peoples of the Ecuadorian jungle and the riches of ceremonial music all in a mix featuring electronica, global bass and dembow.The hostile times humanity is going through have awoken a need to get back to our roots, reclaim ancestral knowledge, and question where the excessive exploitation of natural resources has led us. We have heeded that urgent call to care for everything that seems unlimited but which is increasingly scarce. And so we have looked to the past to understand our relationship with what surrounds us and establish a dialogue between the past, the present and the uncertain idea of the future. Applied to music, this has aroused the interest of artists and producers who use the rich folklore and traditions of Latin America to replicate that dialogue between what was and what will be. With this in mind, Mitos & Ritos ("Myths and Rites"), the debut EP by the Ecuadorian group Cruzloma, consolidates in its six songs a spirit of promoting traditional rhythms in contemporary styles, a process of reinvention and self-discovery in homage to the indigenous peoples of the Ecuadorian jungle and the riches of ceremonial music, based around the bambuco style from Esmeraldas on the northern coast, and the bomba del chota and the san juanito from Imbabura province. On this EP there are also sacred prayers of the Shuar nation, called Ujaj and Anets, including ceremonies like the taking of ayahuasca and of the tzan tza, all in a mix featuring electronica, global bass and dembow. It is a journey into mysticism, the jungle and the dancefloor, reflecting a search for musical identity that is at once contemporary and futurist.

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.

Big AC Records are proud to present ‘Wonderland’, the astonishing debut LP from London-based soul ensemble, Wonder 45. The album is set for release on Friday 31st May and is available to pre-order on LP and CD now from www.bigacrecords.com
The band have released a steady stream of singles over the last few months, receiving international airplay and strong support across the UK Radio network. Their second single, ‘Cry’ was playlisted on BBC Radio 2 for three weeks in early 2024 and was also heavily rotated on BBC 6 Music and KEXP in Seattle. The follow-up ‘Make It Happen’ was premiered on 6 Music by Craig Charles, who touted Wonder 45 as “One To Watch” in 2024.
Continuing in the best traditions of contemporary soul performance from Sharon Jones, Black Pumas, Alabama Shakes, as well as Al Green, Aretha Franklin and in the case of the title track, “like a 21st century Joe Cocker”(Blues and Soul Magazine), the nine tracks of ‘Wonderland’ are sincere affairs of the heart, crafted with tremendous loving care and the utmost attention to detail. The band’s rich, analogue production combined with powerful, soulful performances and heartfelt songwriting, make you feel as though you’re the only one in the room.
‘Wonderland’ straddles the line between traditional and contemporary soul with ease, but wherever it sits in your playlist it’s an album packed full of feeling. From the blown out and tear-stained vocals in ‘Cry’ to the gentle reassurance of ‘Nothing Gonna Change’, the vocals soar on this record, flying on the wings of smooth horns, organ and beautiful bass.
The title track ‘Wonderland’ has a real fairground feel, taking you on a spin through what feels like the world’s most intense one night stand. But there’s plenty of pace here too – ‘Superman’ storms through the skies leaving you feeling superfly with some gritty drums and tight AF guitar, while ‘Walk Into The Fire’ inducts you into the cult of Wonder 45 with some heavy beats made for dancing, but leave you on an emotional high. And if you need something to bring you up, Make It Happen will inspire you with huge horns and vocals.
Expect heart, soul, blood, sweat and tears to run through the playground of funk and soul sounds that is ‘Wonderland’. Need to know how authentic funk and soul goes down? Wonder no more.

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!"

Push are back with this 7” release of their highly acclaimed classic ‘cut ME Loose’. Originally released in 1994, this JBs inspired groove monster is still a rare groove defining piece of funk art. The flipside Superstar is their first new recording in 10 years! It is an upbeat Roy Ayers-Pleasure-esque anthem that will become a staple in DJ’s selections worldwide. Boogie Back is back for good!!

Edwin Starr was a Northern Soul hero, noted for his Ric Tic and Gordy/Tamla Motown recordings in the mid to late 60s.He is best known for his international chart topper 'War' a Vietnam War protest song from 1970. These two sides are from the same album 'War And Peace' .'Time' has been one of Edwin's most in demand Northern Soul dancers for many decades and certain issues of original copies have sold for over £250. In more recent times the flipside ' Running Back And Forth' has been played and is demand on the Northern Soul/Crossover Soul scene making this a great value 45 with two brilliant tracks in demand in their own right, which epitomise the era.

The 1967 Impulse Records legendary Funk/Soul Instrumental masterpiece album Chicken Fat. If you haven’t heard Chicken Fat yet, get ready because the LP won’t leave your turntable until your jaw stops hitting the floor. Sourced from the original analog master tapes by Kevin Grey. All Analog Process (aaa) Initially working as a guitar player for such greats as Sonny Boy Williamson & Etta James, Impulse Records eventually offered Mel Brown the chance to record his own material. Recorded in 1967 in Hollywood, CA, for the Impulse record label, Brown amassed a group of session musicians who had played with Charles Mingus, Marvin Gaye, and Dizzy Gillespie. Much of the album was arranged by Oliver Nelson, who worked with Thelonious Monk, Sonny Rollins, Jimmy Smith and more. His touch is felt all over the record and helps solidify the journey. These recording sessions also reflected the Sunset Strip and the energy of late ‘60s Los Angeles so incredibly, you can almost hear the go-go boots hit the floor to dance til they drop.

Family vocal group the Esquires was formed in Milwaukee in the late 1950s; by the time they moved to Chicago to launch their recording career the group featured Gilbert Moorer, Alvis Moorer, and Sam Pace and although Curtis Mayfield turned them down, Bunky Sheppard recognised their potential, their debut single ‘Get On Up’ a smash hit that led to the recording of this brilliant debut album, an excellent collection of upbeat melodic soul with the group’s vocal harmonies in the spotlight. Further permutations would follow but Get On Up And Get Away captures the group in its illustrious eginning, full of shining joy. A top-notch release!