Contemporary Funk 234 Items

Crafted blend of soul, blues and rock by Finnish Marjo Leinonen on Jimi Tenor's Ronet imprint. A-sides "No More Crying" is classic and time certain, radio quality from the AM times. But the flip grooves has the absolute thrill – a drawn out balad with skillfull arrangement and musicianship. "Treat Yourself Right" could also have one of 2019's best positioned dub echos!

After his song “Space Bella Coola” became one of the more recognizable modern funk tracks on the street dance scene, French producer Aaron Evo brings you his first release on vinyl, “The One.” Featuring a reworked version of “Space Bella Coola” entitled “Unstoppable,” the album displays Aaron’s recognizable sonic palette and slick funk touch. His synths wiggle unthinkably while drums and bass slap, forming concrete-hard foundations for his tracks. Somehow simple yet explosive, “The One” traverses through all territories in the land of funk, from the G to P. Also included on the album is the track “Gangstagram,” created for and played at the grand final of the most important street dance events at Juste Debout & KOD 2018. Future Classic.

mess/age is the music of Kyoto-based friends Khan Brown and Ohhki. Formed in 2021, their unique sound was developed by chance with a circuit bent karaoke machine. Now combine that with logic beats, familiar breaks, Casio tones and their signature echo poetry, and you have songs that will be stuck in your head for a lifetime. We have warned you about "Hi Wo Kaou."!

The Pendletons take a bold step with their first full forthcoming length album, 2 Steps Away, releasing this spring on the Bastard Jazz imprint. Recorded in San Francisco with a rock-solid band consisting of some of the best musicians in the Bay Area, including guitarist Carl Locket (Shalamar, Rick James) and Star Creature recording artist Elive, the duo taps into a classic soul/boogie sound that rides a wave of '70s and early '80s funk with ease but somehow remains true to the excitement of those classic recordings without being overly nostalgic
On this preview 7" the band showcases the uptempo disco/boogie slapper "You Do You" featuring legendary Soul singer Howard Johnson (Nightflyte / Kashif) while on the flip is the sweet soul of "Life To Me" over an irresistible groove.

The Devonns are a new soul band from Chicago, Illinois. Raised on a strict diet of 60s and 70s Soul music, despite their very young age the lads have very clear in their mind what to do. Pulling from influences such as The Impressions, Leroy Hutson, The Bar-Kays, Carole King, The Isley Brothers, Leon Ware as well as from contemporary acts such as Raphael Saadiq and Jamie Lidell, The Devonns’ main focus is on exploring the elements of songwriting and arranging/production that made music from 1965 on. Wrote in 10 minutes, completely on a $300 Danelectro singlecut guitar and recorded at Kingsize Sound Labs in Chicago, the super soulful debut single “Come Back” sees the participation of some top-notch musicians such as Paul Von Mertens (Mavis Staples, Paul McCartney, Elton John) who arranged the string section and Ken Stringfellow (R.E.M) as a special guest on guitar and percussions. The single is appetizer of their debut full length which is scheduled to be released on Record Kicks next autumn. “Come Back” hit the streets next June the 08th on digital download and limited edition 45 vinyl. Started in 2016 by the singer and songwriter Mathew Ajjarapu who, after he dropped out of med school found himself drawn over and over to underground soul hits becoming hooked on their steady groove and impeccable production and arranging values, The Devonns see the rhythm duty entrusted to Khalyle Hagood (bass) and Khori Wilson (drums), while Cam Cunningham is on the guitar.

Brooklyn’s funk ambassadors invite J.Bless, Captain Planet, Navagente & Juno What to pump up the volume, w/4 bin rattlers to ignite floors their own spin on the 'part gangsta, part janky' sound the Pimps have become known for.

Polistrumentalist, composer and producer Alex Puddu (Al Dente/Schema Records), also known for his collaborations with Edda Dell'Orso (Maestro Morricone's legendary vocalist,) Joe Bataan, Lonnie Jordan from L.A funk band War, and Gene Robinson Jr of Breakwater, and who boasts a solo discography of 17 albums, including the three original volumes of the red light soundtracks of Danish films" The Golden Age Of Danish xxxography.

He debuts for the first time with a new double single sang in Italian language, with two tracks "Pullover Grigio" and Texas Blonde", proposing a new sound that draws us into the Italian funk pop music of the late 70s and early 80s and into the pop/indie melodies of the new Italian scene, up to electronic sounds (as Calcutta, Fulminacci, Fra Quintale, Marco Castello and Nu Genea have done), between soul and disco, which are part of Alex Puddu's unmistakable production style. Don’t Miss It!

Four years after their latest release – SCEB925LP/CD / “Do Hipsters Love Sun (Ra)?” – the most cinematic duo in town is coming back in Autumn 2019 with a new full-length record called “Art Is A Cat”, anticipated by the first single “When You Died”, released as a 7-inch with two versions of the same song.
Side A contains the album version of “When You Died” and features singer Sean Martin on vocals – yes, the same one that sang on the band’s super classic number “Tunnel” back in 2003! A funk song with a ’70s psychedelic taste, with an emphasized groove typical of some American rock bands such as Black Merda.
Side B includes a rework of the same composition made by Massimo Martellotta (Calibro 35), who transformed the original track into a compelling disco soul midtempo tune.
Are you ready to dance?

RSN is a producer, DJ and musician from Athens - Greece. his upcoming album "Strange Eyes" is his 4rth one, but also his debut on Agogo Records. this single features the song "Black Sky" feat. Thaliah in the original version and a pretty great rework by Amerigo Gazaway.

Mestizo Beat is a Los Angeles-based band blending the styles of Afro-beat, Afro-Cuban, Funk, and R&B. Their debut release for Colemine is a fiery cover of Mongo Santamaria's "Featherbed Lane" and is sure to set dance floors on fire!

Orgone is back with more heavy funk from the West Coast. A dark mood and deep groove set the tone for a Funkadelic-like sort of vibe. Both tracks featuring Adryon De León.

LA DJ/producer drops 2 inspired, illicit remixes: a glitchy, twisted electronic remix of Johnny Cash's "Straight A's In Love" b/w a moody, epic sounding remix of Nina Simone's "Feeling Good" that starts off with a scary sounding intro and then chucks in some big band breakbeats.

“Make It Happen” is a positive, uplifting, track filled with in-your-face brass, dirty wah guitar, and group vocals that fans of “Sly and The Family Stone” will fall in love with. Make it happen, is a conversation with yourself, don’t wait till it’s too late, you got to do, to make it happen. You’ve got what it takes, but that’s not enough if you don’t try. With vocals that start low, but reach highs you don’t think possible, “Make It Happen” gives you no choice but to dance, sing and clap along, and most importantly to take their advice and “Make It Happen”.

The American producer Buscrates lands on Neon Finger with this magnificent 7″, showing his peculiar sound, loaded with groove that oscillates between funk, boogie, jazz or hip-hop. Acoustic drums, drum machines, synthesizers and vocoders are the ingredients of these jams. After his releases on labels such as Omega Supreme, Bastard Jazz or Voyage Funktastique, this artist has become one of the most important producers in the modern funk scene.

Following the mighty rendition of "I Want You", Soul Sugar (a.k.a. Guillaume 'Gee' Metenier) is back with another massive Soul-Reggae version, this time taking on Luther Vandross' "Never Too Much".
Fearlessly taking on such timeless classics is serious business, and Leo Carmichael delivers, once again, with a maximum dosage of finesse and feeling. Seductively delicate backing vocals from Carl Lee Sharshmidt and Karene Brown keep it as warm and intimate as one would hope, while Thomas Naim's tasteful guitar licks and Gee's minimal production allow the song to breathe and flow steadily on its own.
Recorded in Paris, Kingston, Miami and London, the resulting blend of Soul and Reggae riddims has rarely felt so natural. On the A-side, Gee's "Discomix" dubs a generous dose of the sultry backing vocals over a minimal, bassy groove that dips, dives and flows on into the sunset. UK producer Adam Prescott lets loose with an infectious 90's dancehall rerub, aiming straight for the dancefloor... ladies' choice! Finally rhythm legends Sly & Robbie drop the BASS with a heavy dancehall treatment, taking it low, letting it ride, while the vocals float on... Never Too Much!

Escort kicks off a new series of 7” releases with a bang!
On the A-side is 'City Life', a bubbling party starter of a track, which features disco royaly Fonda Rae on vocals, while on the flip ‘Fantasy’ blends echoes of 70s tropicalia with dubbed-out disco vocals for a super groovy trip.

Big Crown Records is proud to present Do It Again the first single from Lady Wray’s new album Queen Alone. The 45 and upcoming album is produced by Leon Michels and Thomas Brenneck.

Homer Steinweiss has an incredibly storied career in music that started when he was just a teenager. He's drummed for nearly every "retro soul" group that mattered and his distinctive stickwork helped blend the raw-but-receptive soul sound back into the mainstream via the likes of Amy Winehouse & Sharon Jones. He's now one of the most in demand drummers in the world, playing with Jonas Brothers, Clairo, Solange, Adele, and Bruno Mars to name a few. With his debut solo release Ensatina, Homer is stepping to the forefront as both musician and producer. His new record is a reection of who he is now and a testament to how struggle often brings about a needed change. In 2020 Homer had to reckon with considerable emotional turbulence; at the same time that his band Holy Hive broke up, a personal relationship of 20+ years fell apart putting Homer in an uncertain place mentally. The fallout was signicant enough for him to seek professional help. "I was going through these super manic highs and then very depressive lows," Homer describes. "And being in all that, it's just so tough to imagine that the other side is there, that it'll be ok." But, with time, professional help, and support from friends and family, Homer made it through and has been forever changed. This album is a product of that period of his life. The rst song from these sessions, "Now That It's Over" perfectly sums up Homer's triumph through those tough times. It's a song of changing perspective and contemplation with haunting vocals from Hether and Flikka. "Paul (Castelluzzo_ aka, Hether), as a friend, saw me through these highs and lows," Homer points out. "I only had the one line, 'Now that it's over, I'm alright,' but he felt that lyric so much that he wrote all these sections and lyrics and basically completed the song. It was like he was writing to me." Hether also features on album standouts "Deep Sea", a modern love song, "Start Select", a juxtaposition of inspiration and melancholy, and "Forever and Ever and Ever and Ever" which is an incredible contemporary take on the B side soul ballad. Homer uses his innate gift for bringing seemingly opposing energies together on "Racecar Driver", pairing the vocals of Hether & long time friend and collaborator KIRBY to make a genre challenging banger. KIRBY also graces the album opener "Rollin'", an airy, warm-weather invoking song that her raspy voice perfectly compliments. He puts his drumming front and center on "So Get Up!", a bottom heavy infectious track that MINOVA's vocals turn into an instant hit that is sure to smash speakers. On "Wishing Well" & "Hide It Behind the Light I'm Shining Through" Homer is joined by girl named GOLDEN, who's unique voice effortlessly nds the pocket in each tune. The man on trumpet, and fellow Big Crown label mate Dave Guy, puts his incomparable playing on the album closer "Goldie" which Homer says is the part of the movie where the credits roll. Making this album was a refuge for Homer and it put him back on track. Ensatina is a glimpse into the different energies and inuences that make Homer tick. To say he was always much more than a drummer would be an understatement, and this rst solo offering is just the beginning of his next chapter.

Right Of Me' is an incandescent and refined excerpt, like the entire new concept of the album 'Peaceful Sound For Broken Minds' due out on 28 Feb 24. The plan of Salvo Dub from Catania aka Go.Soul.Map does not stop here - we are in front of an artist with an exceptional creative phase, a hothouse of sparkling ideas that flow out in continuous streams like the lava of Etna in its full eruptive activity.

As with 'Pushing', 'Right Of Me' is always presented in a Nu-disco key, super Dance in a formula full of Pop and Soul enriched by keyboard sounds. Salvo comments on how proud he was of this track, which is certainly the strongest track on the whole album, and it is no coincidence that it was chosen as the second single. The performance and refined voice of Derane Obika complete the work, her lyrics touching a deep state that explores the relationship with one's self and faith.

In conclusion, we can say that in a world where artificial intelligence will only numb our creative stimuli, there is no shortage of creativity here and at the same time, more unique than rare, Go.Soul.Map. remains firmly anchored to its roots beyond passing fads in a space of pure simplicity and creative essence alongside its friend Derane Obika.
Don't miss It!!!

Jungle x Library grooves on this latest Cold Diggin’ release introducin’ the Dude!
Limited one-off pressing, black vinyl, colored silk screen print.

Soul Crooner David A. Tobin is no stranger to the game. The singer, songwriter and one of the Cool Million vocalists was born and raised in the NYC neighbor state New Jersey aka Brick City, which ever since had a massive influence on the US music scene. “Go Back And Make It Right” comes as a freshly mixed soulful Boogie tune, straight from Rob Hardt’s studio console. Positive and uplifting vocals embedded in a driving and crispy production that will open hearts and fill floors. As always on the Sedsoulciety Recordings white line it features the DJ friendly Dub Version, already a proven concept, on the flipside. This new release on Sedsoulciety Recordings is an unreleased exclusive vinyl 45

Soul Crooner David A. Tobin is no stranger to the game. The singer, songwriter and one of the Cool Million vocalists was born and raised in the NYC neighbor state New Jersey aka Brick City, which ever since had a massive influence on the US music scene. “Go Back And Make It Right” comes as a freshly mixed soulful Boogie tune, straight from Rob Hardt’s studio console. Positive and uplifting vocals embedded in a driving and crispy production that will open hearts and fill floors. As always on the Sedsoulciety Recordings white line it features the DJ friendly Dub Version, already a proven concept, on the flipside. This new release on Sedsoulciety Recordings is an unreleased exclusive vinyl 45

On the Line is a fresh collaborative release between west coast and east coast Canadian artists Jonny Tobin and Maya Killtron, kicking off the beginning of 2024 in a memorable way. The song features a satisfying blend of soul, 80s funk, and yacht rock. Undeniable grooves come together with Jonny Tobin’s lush and funky production work, and Maya Killtron’s soaring vocal stylings elevate the track to a whole other level. On the Line will appeal to lovers of modern funk and beyond! The Light In All Of Us is a brand new instrumental track from acclaimed jazz fusion/funk keyboardist and producer Jonny Tobin. His production blends elements of dance music, modern jazz, and funk, with Jonny’s signature writing style - catchy synth melodies, uplifting chord progressions, and a dash of improvised solos. This colourful mix of aesthetics helps to set the track apart from other instrumental beat-based releases, and Tobin’s usual sense of musical optimistic shines through clearly in the music.

While Bobby was the track that sparked the idea for Caserta to start BridgeBoots, Diana was always in the back of his mind. Diana started off as a release on the long since defunct LegitMix platform. Now it gets new life remixed and mastered by Caserta @TheBridge StudioLA, with a more concise 7 inch edit as well as a brand new Sing A Long dub on the flip, it's sure to be a main stay in the crates for years to come.

« Beauty of the world, chaos of the mind. »

“French music producer Coni presents Transperce, the first record under his project Ce Raid Solitaire.

Inspired by dramatic modern landscapes and haunting memories, the record is an attempt to seek beauty in the midst of a chaotic and saturated present.

Filled with the intensity of chasing rhythms, flicking hi-hats, fierce voices, melancholic pads and wretched distortion, Transperce evokes a state of industrial catharsis to the conscious mind.”

Austin Boogie Crew had to do something special for our first vinyl release of 2019, and with that we present H1NDS1GHT , a killer double 7” modern funk EP by the one and only XL Middleton! Hailing from Pasadena, California, XL has established himself as one of the premiere musicians, label owners (MoFunk Records), and tastemakers in the game. Using outstanding and mostly unreleased material from his archives as the foundation for this project (hence the name H1NDS1GHT), XL reimagined these songs and penned fresh lyrics specifically for the release. We divided the EP into two 45s, each with its own distinct vibe, and with the help of illustrator Austin Cashell and designer Rene Cardenas, created a unique album jacket that forms one image when the two records are held side by side. Viewed as a whole, this EP is an exceptional ride that will carry you from spring into summer!

Vol. 2 A: “Gamin’” (120 BPM) - Broken beat inspired drums and soaring chords lay the groundwork for this exceptional jam about approaching a woman with respect and care. With a sick solo and some vocoder peppered into the mix, this is a winner in more ways than one.

B: “Enjoyable Sunburn” (116 BPM) - XL crafts a playful yet smooth instrumental that would sound at home in an Outrun video game or on the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack. But it isn’t just the nostalgia factor that will keep you coming back to this one, it’s the compositional finesse, amazing synth sounds, and heart.

Austin Boogie Crew had to do something special for our first vinyl release of 2019, and with that we present H1NDS1GHT , a killer double 7” modern funk EP by the one and only XL Middleton! Hailing from Pasadena, California, XL has established himself as one of the premiere musicians, label owners (MoFunk Records), and tastemakers in the game. Using outstanding and mostly unreleased material from his archives as the foundation for this project (hence the name H1NDS1GHT), XL reimagined these songs and penned fresh lyrics specifically for the release. We divided the EP into two 45s, each with its own distinct vibe, and with the help of illustrator Austin Cashell and designer Rene Cardenas, created a unique album jacket that forms one image when the two records are held side by side. Viewed as a whole, this EP is an exceptional ride that will carry you from spring into summer!

Vol. 1 A: “Nervous” (112 BPM) - Making a lasting impression out the gate, “Nervous” is a modern funk anthem for anyone who’s struggled with the confidence to approach someone romantically. On top of the endearing and refreshing songwriting, the instrumentation on this one is crisp and way funky.

B: “Digital Devils” (113 BPM) - Originally featured on the 2014 cassette compilation Is This The Future?, this irresistible instrumental is long overdue for the vinyl treatment. The slapping drums and wet, punchy bass on this one immediately demand attention. With lovely changeups and 16-bit style leads, this is an ace in the hole on any dance floor.

Roots Underground kicks off 2024 with a bang, presenting the EP of one of the most fascinating living legends of Detroit techno: John Beltran. Although he has never stopped producing music (luckily for us!), this EP represents a more than welcome return of John Beltran to those more classic techno sounds that have made him one of the most iconic producers of this musical genre in the world.

The original version of 'Serious' was included on Kazzey's 2022 album Voyage. The collaboration between him & LA modern funk mainstay XL Middleton became a favorite in the street dance scene, soon becoming used in innumerable videos & dance battles internationally. It also found its way into heavy club rotation thanks to forward-thinking DJ's who include the modern funk sound in their sets, from the west coast of the US, to Japan, and back to Kazzey's native France. Now, the track is finally being pressed on vinyl and included on the b-side is a bonus remix (the 'Midnight Drift Remix') bringing a silkier, late-night edge to this certifiable dance floor filler.

"Shake It" is a hip new sound from the world famous funk, soul and boogaloo powerhouse band, The New Mastersounds. Featuring Lamar Williams Jr on vocals and the NMS Horns, this single presents a fresh and cool feel to the traditional funk 45. Perfect for any dance DJ collection and fans of funk music alike. This is the first release by The New Mastersounds on Color Red, a record label founded by Guitarist Eddie Roberts in Denver, CO.

Big Crown Records is proud to present Forever & Ever, the debut album from Thee Heart Tones. Hailing from Hawthorne, California, Thee Heart Tones are both carrying on a tradition and pushing the boundaries with their music. Lead singer Jazmine Alvarado is just 19 years old and the oldest member of the group, Jorge Rodriguez is 21, but one listen to their record and it becomes blatantly apparent they are a talent well beyond their years. Thee Heart Tones are Jazmine on vocals, Ricky Cerezo on keys and organ, Jorge on drums, Jeffrey Romero on bass, Peter Chagolla on lead guitar, and Walter Morales on rhythm guitar. As the story goes, "one day I got a DM from Ricky Cerezo asking if I wanted to write a song for his new (then unnamed) band," Jazmine says. "I knew his drummer and the other boys from middle school, so they were familiar faces. They sent me an mp3 of an instrumental they'd written and told me they wanted lyrics, so I wrote some and sent it to them." That song ended up being "Don't Take Me as a Fool," a downbeat, minor key ballad on which Jazmine's sultry, pitch-perfect vocals soar, and which is now destined for their debut album. Ricky went home to play "Don't Take Me As a Fool", recorded as a voice note on his phone, to his dad. "I was hesitant. Dad knew this music better than anyone; he grew up with it. But he grabbed my phone and held it to his ear. His approval meant a lot to me. But he had the same reaction Jorge and I did when we fi¬rst heard Jazmine sing. `This is going to be a hit,' he told me. `You guys have something really special here'." It was that same recording that caught the ears of Leon Michels and Danny Akalepse of Big Crown Records, who both heard the potential in the group immediately. After they signed to the label, Leon flew out to Los Angeles to record their debut album with Tommy Brenneck at Tommy's Diamond West studio. They knocked out 14 songs in fi¬ve days, capturing the charm of teenage soul and mixing it with their seasoned production prowess and the result is a modern classic Soul album. Album opener and title track "Forever & Ever" is an infectious two-stepper that instantly lifts your mood while heavy duty B side ballads like "Should I Call You Tonight", "Cry My Tears Away", and "It's Time" hold court with the genre's classics. They pick up the pace and ¬fill the dancefloor with "Need Something More" as Jazmine matter of factly sets the record straight on a Northern Soul styled track. They cover the Alvaro Carrillo penned classic "Sabor A Mi" to great effect, doing it justice and putting their version right up there with the best of them. Another standout is their version of The Vanguards classic "Somebody Please" which they change the tone of and take to a different level. The punching drums of "No Longer Mine" juxtapose Jazmine's honeyed vocals and wind up with the gritty energy of a mid-90s hip hop sample. Forever & Ever is both a testament to their unmistakable musical chemistry and talent. Their intentions as a band are testament to their collective character. Choosing to cover "Sabor A Mi" "allows us to let our audience know we go back to our roots," Jazmine says. "Growing up in LA, you get influenced by the city, the artwork, the music," Ricky says. "Dad didn't own a lowrider car, but other members of our family did. Impalas. El Caminos. We were influenced by the culture, particularly Chicano culture. And oldies and soul music played a big part." The style. The culture. The nod to the past. "That's what we're going for. We want to connect young Chicanos with their heritage. And we want to unite people _ old and young."

From The Independent Uk Label Six Nine Records Ltd, Based In Newcastle Upon Tyne, Two Jazz Project, The Late Enois Scroggins And Marie Meney Together With Yuki “T-Groove” Takahashi Are Here With Two New Fantastic Songs! Definitely Not To Be Missed As It Is A Limited Uk Press With Small Hole And Full Colour Printed Picture Cover!

Limited Edition for Record Store Day 2019! Montreal’s finest Dave Allison aka Ed Wizard & Disco Double Dee has been delighting dancefloors around the globe since 2009. With his signature brand of chunky disco dubs infused with hip-hop flavours and a slow mo house feel. “Funk Wit Me” is classic Ed Wizard and features the talents of Nebraska on the remix. LTD Edition Green Vinyl.

Mosaic is a heavy new three tracker from a band whose reputation exploded this spring with the release of debut album Murmuration. Lead track Mosaic is full of the warmth of this heatwave-summer, syncopation and groove in abundance. Driving melodic lines and keyboard atmospherics suddenly give way to one of James O'Keefe's most powerful guitar solos to date, wild and psychedelic. Transcoso brings the band to the downtempo magic that they have become much loved for. Heavily inspired by Azimuth, an hypnotic beat from drummer Jonny Drop eventually builds to a euphoric, almost slow disco climax for the final section. Maripose is a timely tribute. Debuted at their London album launch this take on the Freeez classic (although the live version in particular) explored a little more of the South London, Brit Funk influences that really drive the band.

Big Crown Records is proud to present Forever & Ever, the debut album from Thee Heart Tones. Hailing from Hawthorne, California, Thee Heart Tones are both carrying on a tradition and pushing the boundaries with their music. Lead singer Jazmine Alvarado is just 19 years old and the oldest member of the group, Jorge Rodriguez is 21, but one listen to their record and it becomes blatantly apparent they are a talent well beyond their years. Thee Heart Tones are Jazmine on vocals, Ricky Cerezo on keys and organ, Jorge on drums, Jeffrey Romero on bass, Peter Chagolla on lead guitar, and Walter Morales on rhythm guitar. As the story goes, "one day I got a DM from Ricky Cerezo asking if I wanted to write a song for his new (then unnamed) band," Jazmine says. "I knew his drummer and the other boys from middle school, so they were familiar faces. They sent me an mp3 of an instrumental they'd written and told me they wanted lyrics, so I wrote some and sent it to them." That song ended up being "Don't Take Me as a Fool," a downbeat, minor key ballad on which Jazmine's sultry, pitch-perfect vocals soar, and which is now destined for their debut album. Ricky went home to play "Don't Take Me As a Fool", recorded as a voice note on his phone, to his dad. "I was hesitant. Dad knew this music better than anyone; he grew up with it. But he grabbed my phone and held it to his ear. His approval meant a lot to me. But he had the same reaction Jorge and I did when we fi¬rst heard Jazmine sing. `This is going to be a hit,' he told me. `You guys have something really special here'." It was that same recording that caught the ears of Leon Michels and Danny Akalepse of Big Crown Records, who both heard the potential in the group immediately. After they signed to the label, Leon flew out to Los Angeles to record their debut album with Tommy Brenneck at Tommy's Diamond West studio. They knocked out 14 songs in fi¬ve days, capturing the charm of teenage soul and mixing it with their seasoned production prowess and the result is a modern classic Soul album. Album opener and title track "Forever & Ever" is an infectious two-stepper that instantly lifts your mood while heavy duty B side ballads like "Should I Call You Tonight", "Cry My Tears Away", and "It's Time" hold court with the genre's classics. They pick up the pace and ¬fill the dancefloor with "Need Something More" as Jazmine matter of factly sets the record straight on a Northern Soul styled track. They cover the Alvaro Carrillo penned classic "Sabor A Mi" to great effect, doing it justice and putting their version right up there with the best of them. Another standout is their version of The Vanguards classic "Somebody Please" which they change the tone of and take to a different level. The punching drums of "No Longer Mine" juxtapose Jazmine's honeyed vocals and wind up with the gritty energy of a mid-90s hip hop sample. Forever & Ever is both a testament to their unmistakable musical chemistry and talent. Their intentions as a band are testament to their collective character. Choosing to cover "Sabor A Mi" "allows us to let our audience know we go back to our roots," Jazmine says. "Growing up in LA, you get influenced by the city, the artwork, the music," Ricky says. "Dad didn't own a lowrider car, but other members of our family did. Impalas. El Caminos. We were influenced by the culture, particularly Chicano culture. And oldies and soul music played a big part." The style. The culture. The nod to the past. "That's what we're going for. We want to connect young Chicanos with their heritage. And we want to unite people _ old and young."

Big Crown Records is proud to present Brainstory's sophomore full-length album Sounds Good. Based in L.A. but hailing from the Inland Empire's own Rialto, California, two-thirds of Brainstory, Kevin and Tony Martin are brothers by blood, while Eric Hagstrom is a brother through their music and long term friendship. Since they started the band they have constantly faced situations that forced them to rise to the occasion. They got signed to Big Crown Records, they stepped up their game. Covid happened, they learned to record themselves. They started touring a ton sharing the stage with the likes of Lady Wray and they got their live show super tight. All of this time spent grinding and growing has certainly paid off. The path to take their art to the next level is clearer than ever, and once again, they are here for it. If there is one thing that is abundantly clear on Sounds Good, it's that Brainstory has leveled up. Part of this evolution is undoubtedly attributed to having access to and working constantly in their own studio in Long Beach. Another major factor is that their brotherhood has expanded. "I've been playing music with my brother all my life and now with Eric for a long time," Tony tells us. "Leon, though, is like another brother I've just met." Leon Michels, Big Crown's co-owner, produced this record and applied his unmistakable golden touch in crucial ways. The other member of the extended Brainstory brotherhood whose contributions were essential to the album, is studio engineer legend Jens Jungkurth who controls the tones and textures of the music. "That's what you're hearing, our connection, the fun moments, the little details," Kevin describes. "This record isn't half what it is without them_and it made us want to match that effort," and match that effort they did. Album opener "Nobody But You" is an uplifting, dance ¬oor burner, that shows off a new side of Brainstory's range. Drummer Eric Hagstrom's crushing back beat lays the foundation for an inspirational feel good banger that manages to take the uncomfortable truth that "nobody will save you but you" and turn it into pure blissful motivation. "Peach Optimo" is a laid back half time tune that blends the bounce of Down South Hip-Hop with California G funk and Jazz. They once again show off their B said ballad talents with "Gift Of Life" but this time taking the genre to a new place with lyrics about existentialism and a track that is drop dead gorgeous, haunting, and profound all at once. "NyNy" is an homage to Kev and Tony's recently deceased grandfather while "Too Yung" is a show stopping, deeply personal, stripped down number about being introduced to alcohol at a young age. They put another hit on the boards with "Hanging On," a Latin / Psychedelic Soul inspired banger featuring Claire Cottrill on background vocals while "XFaded" addresses the all too common vicious cycle of smoking and drinking too much over a trippy shuf¬e. "It's been four years since our last full length record, and with everything that's happened since, it's like we've been catching up to ourselves." That's one way to describe change: catching up to oneself. Each member of Brainstory has gone through shifts, both personally and musically, and all of that threads through Sounds Good. It's easy to say that the music industry can be short on lasting, genuine relationships. However, for Brainstory, from day one it's been about standing by each other, for each other.

We’ve all heard of crowd-funding, but what about crowd-FUNKing? A play on a popular donation portal inspires the title of NYC funk band The Du-Rites’ eighth 7” single, “Go Funk Me”. Drummer Jay Mumford’s syncopated, off-kilter groove counters a ‘60s drum machine pattern, inspired by Sly Stone’s Fresh LP. Pablo Martin’s bass and rhythm guitar lock it all together, while guest flautist Seth Hachen and haunting synths float on top melodically. Then the funk kicks up a notch with breaks, stops, turns and funky counterpoint between the whole band, before breaking into heavy dance floor funk. “Go Funk Me” channels it all from ‘70s Jeremy Steig; to film score orchestration; to expensive private press jazz-funk from the same era. Intermittent “funk banter” from Du-Rites mainstay Broughamin’ Fred brings it all home to cement the band’s trademark sound, with a funky flute twist. The B-Side belongs to “Bucket,” a tip jar anthem any band can relate to, but Mumford’s “put it in the bucket, and pass it around” hook can apply to whatever the listener chooses. The drum groove walks the line between Afro-Beat and New Orleans funk, setting the deep groove early. Then bridge takes it to a whole ‘nother universe, before settling back in while the guitar, bass, clavinet, and even a kalimba get a piece of the action with brief solos. Another double-sided deep funk entry for The Du-Rites, who individually have worked as session and live musicians for artists from Danger Mouse; to Tom Tom Club, to Dan Auerbach; to Kelly Finnegan, Adrian Quesada, Just Blaze and countless others.

The Menahan Street Band includes members of The Roots, Budos Band, Lee Fields and The Expressions and The Dap- Kings...an all star Brooklyn line up and a veritable supergroup of some of today's most prolific songwriters, arrangers, and producers. Their unique brand of instrumental soul has not only been the foundation for some of modern hip-hop's most successful beats, it has also become the perennial soundtrack and veritable vibe-generator for countless parties, art shows, and restaurants throughout NYC and abroad. Menahan Street Band has received critical praise for their oft-sampled 2008 debut album "Make The Road By Walking" and for backing Charles Bradley. "Vibe is a quintessential element in what I'm going for," says MSB co-founder, multi-instrumentalist and producer Thomas Brenneck. "Vibe, mood and emotion." Here MSB teams up on two songs with Latin Grammy-nominated and Brazilian Music Awards-winning artist Rogê.

Lalomie Washburn is a US soul vocalist (*1941 – † 2004) from the Soul/Funk 70's band „High Voltage“ who released her solo album, „My Music Is Hot“, in 1977. Over decades she collaborated with many artists including Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Chaka Khan and Ray Charles. In 2005 she was inducted into the Omaha Black Music Hall of Fame. In 1992, she released several 12" singles including the independant hit „Try My Love“. This was the lead single to her second solo album (self-titled) in 1997. It became a huge Acid Jazz classic to be found on various compilations in the mid to the late 90s. Lalomie Washburn's Try My Love is a sophisticated blend of electronic, funk and soul, originally released in 1991. This album seamlessly merges acid jazz, soul, downtempo, and contemporary r&b styles. Side-1 features 'Try My Love,' an underground jam that highlights Washburn's ability to blend these genres into a classy, enjoyable track. Side-2 presents the 2024 Boogie Back remix of 'Try My Love,' which smooth's things out and transforms the original into a melodic disco groove. This remix adds a fresh, modern twist while retaining the soulful essence of the track. Now, 20 years later this song still got it all! The energy and musicality, the club appeal, especially with the addition of the 2024 „Boogie Back Remix“ on the flipside. DJs will have even more reason to spin this Boogie Bomb and prove their love for it...

Classic R’n’b and Afro Beat a fusion and perfect match. Modern and warm, pounding beats and pulsing baselines are the ingredients of this German-Nigerian extra ordinary colabo. This is the door opener for our Sedsoulciety Recordings gold line, which displays the modern and zeitgeist driven section of our catalogue. Expect nothing less than powerful, driving beats and smooth vocals. The gold line embodies Rap, HipHop, R’n’b, Neo-Soul, Neo-Boogie and Neo-Funk, not necessarily in one track but as a pool of artists and productions.“Tell Me What You Want” and we deliver it. This time in two outfits, the Afro Vibe Mix on the A-side and the Groove Mix on the flip… This new release on Sedsoulciety Recordings is an unreleased exclusive vinyl 45!

First Word Records is very proud to present a brand new EP from Yazmin Lacey - 'When The Sun Dips 90 Degrees'.
This EP follows on from her two recent singles, '90 Degrees' and 'Something My Heart Trusts', both of which are included here, along with three previously unreleased tracks, 'Heaven', 'Body Needs Healing' and 'Burn & Rise'. This set illustrates again Yazmin's candid songwriting delivered in her uniquely laidback soulful style, whilst a glorious fusion of neo-soul and jazz performed by Pete Beardsworth and her trusty band rides throughout.
In recent times, Yazmin has made live appearances on Jazz FM, BBC Radio 4, 1Xtra and NTS, & received widespread acclaim across the airwaves, including BBC Radio 2, BBC 6 Music, Worldwide FM and Mi-Soul, plus Spotify love from the likes of The Independent and heavy support from DJs such as Gilles Peterson, Jamz Supernova, Tom Ravenscroft, Huey Morgan and Jamie Cullum. Yazmin appeared heavily in The Guardian / The Observer's recent extensive feature on the UK's new Jazz movement too.
Initially a Brownswood 'Future Bubbler' graduate, Yazmin self-released her debut EP, 'Black Moon', last year. This lead to a Maida Vale session late 2017 with Jordan Rakei, Moses Boyd, Oscar Jerome and now label-mates, Children of Zeus. She kicked off the year with a performance at the Worldwide Awards with Skinny Pelembe, and has recently done shows with artists such as Ezra Collective, Tall Black Guy and Fatima. Yazmin has a UK tour scheduled for later in the year, as well as several festival appearances across Europe locked in. There's a lot more to come from this Notts-based Londoner yet.
In Yazmin's words: "'90 Degrees' is about that time of the day / night when there's a shift in pace and energy. When you decide to lock off from the 'outside' world and create your own atmosphere, take some time to give thanks for what's breathing love into your life and smoke off the fuckeries. Everyone needs a little routine for self preservation."
The 5-track vinyl & digital EP is released worldwide on June 15th.

Fraternity Music Group continues on with their tributes some of the most appreciated classic breaks with their latest paying homage to the heavily covered “Get Out Of My Life Woman” originally written by the legendary Allen Toussaint. The latest rendition comes from Raoul & The Big Time which was originally released on CD only from their Hollywood Blvd album back in 2014. This 7″ release includes both the vocal and instrumental versions of course with the infamous heavy drum break opening perfect for rocking doubles.

Due to incredible demand, another immensely popular record from from Sababa 5 gets a re-release with a new limited edition version. Crossroad of Love Limited Edition Transparent Green Vinyl

* The latest vinyl offering from Seattle’s hologram funk soul singer SassyBlack
* Special-edition four-song EP containing the missing musical accompaniment to the Black Panther movie
* Pressed on 7” vinyl in multiple colors, limited to 500 individually numbered copies
* Cover design by visual artist Wutang McDougal
* Specially mastered for vinyl by Adam Straney

Wakanda Funk Lounge” by SassyBlack, is a svelte slab of hologram funk delivered directly from the Black Panther nation of Wakanda. This four-song EP contains the chart-topping hits from that nation’s funk lounges, and rising star, SassyBlack.

SassyBlack is a "blaxploitation, sci-fi warrior queen" and is also a multi-talented, space-aged songwriter, beatmaker, composer and singer. Her music has been described as “electronic psychedelic soul,” with roots in experimental hip-hop, R&B, and jazz. Her voice has been compared to that of Ella Fitzgerald, Erykah Badu, and Georgia Anne Muldrow and her beats owe a debt to Herbie Hancock and Quincy Jones. Like Queen Latifah, she sings, raps, is an actor and produces all her own music. Before going solo, she recorded and performed as half of the Afrofuturist hip-hop duo THEESatisfaction. Her music has received attention from Okayplayer, Afropunk, The Fader, Pitchfork, Bitch magazine and more.

Her brand new “Wakanda Funk Lounge” EP has been recently released as a 500-copy special-edition 7” single on Seattle hip-hop record label Crane City Music. The cover was designed by visual artist Wutang McDougal and each copy is pressed on colored vinyl and is individually numbered. The music is also available online on all major streaming services and can be purchased digitally through Bandcamp. It’s funky music that reminds us that Wakanda’s main export is “VIBE-ranium.”

In describing the project, SassyBlack says that “Wakanda Funk Lounge is about black freedom. When I think of “Black Panther,” it is talking about black freedom, so much that we have our own secret space. What would be freer than a Wakanda funk lounge?”

This is not her first sci-fi or superhero-themed project. SassyBlack performed at 2018’s Emerald City Comic Con, and her 2016 full-length album, “No More Weak Dates” contains numerous references to Star Trek. In an interview with Hearst publication Shondaland, she explains her sci-fi fascination: “Star Trek and Star Wars have always had bars and concerts. There’s no culture without music… And so Black Panther’s M’Baku invites me to come and perform in one of Wakanda’s funk lounges. This EP is the music I perform there. And where it gets crazy is that I’m like, ‘Listen, I have to leave Wakanda now because I’m going to go join Starfleet.’ [laughs] It could technically work.

Cynicism is an easy sell. We’re skeptical of harmony because the news sows division, social
media runs on scorn, and tangible reminders of good have become increasingly rare. Yet
there are those whispered moments of unity, those artists who effortlessly embody the
ideals of fusion –those who allow us to reap the rewards that can only yielded from an
embrace of different ideas, cultures, and sounds. This is the genius of Seba Kaapstad.
Seba Kaapstad is a multi-national neo-soul quartet comprised of a South African, a Swazi,
and two Germans. They summon the most powerful manifestation of creativity: music that
represents an idea. Their Mello Music debut album, Thina, takes its name from the Zulu
word for “us.” It is a gorgeous halo of soul, encompassing several continents worth of sound,
and obliterating the notion of genre. It is divined by artists whose lineage is riven with trauma
and suffering. But like their ancestors, they endured. And only in this futuristic present could
they reconcile the perseverance and turmoil of the past, using music to inspire unity and
heal.
They conjure beatific grooves that radiate with alluvial soul, celestial jazz, electronic
experimentation and the polyrhythmic essence of Africa. It is marrow music, what digs
beneath your bones, seeping into your bloodstream and inner visions. You hear flashes of
the greats: Badu, Georgia Anne Muldrow, Jill Scott, and the Things Fall Apart-era Roots. You
might even hear the ethereal float of Frank Ocean or the glowing bliss of Flying Lotus and
Thundercat. But like all stellar quartets, Seba Kaapstad is indivisible and made stronger by
the sum of their parts.
If the sonic roots lie in the tessaracts of eternal memory, Seba Kaapstad’s present-day
genesis trace to 2013, the year that Sebastian Schuster arrived in Cape Town and
immediately fell in the love with its rich cultural tapestry, legendary musical community, and
artful chaos. He soon paired with the rest of the band—Zoe Modiga, Philip Scheibel (Pheel),
Ndumiso Manana—developing the sort of telepathic chemistry can’t be replicated or really
even explained.
You hear this harmonic synthesis all over Thina. Each song is a symphony of its own. Take
“Don’t,” which opens with glistening pianos and a head-bobbing slap, then Zoe Modiga
unleashes her sky-rattling voice, alternating between near-rapping and time-stopping,
levitating multi-octave solos—all the while paraphrasing Shakespeare. And in the last
minute, there’s an exquisite string coda that you’d expect to hear at a world-class
philharmonic.
There’s "Breathe," which OkayAfrica raved was “a refreshing combination of the crew's
different influences…as much of a Friday/Saturday night jam as a Sunday morning one.” It’s a
spiritual hymn in search of water and solace, a loose-limbed rhythm that echoes the themes
of Fela and the jams of classic Electric Ladyland neo-soul. While the title track alternates
between Zulu and English, as Modiga offers inspirational uplift and timeless lyrics about the
natural elements.