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Soul Survivors is a new young Amsterdam band with a free spirit and a wild heart. The band has immersed themselves in soul, rhythm & blues by mastering all the old soul songs they love. With a setlist full of soul gems, they quickly built up a reputation in the Amsterdam live circuit. The band then used this musical suitcase to write powerful songs of their own. With this bagage, Soul Survivors gave dazzling performances in many Dutch clubs and festivals last season, including Jazz in Duketown, Zoetermeer Blues and Breda Jazz. The band has also gained a foothold in Germany in a short time with a growing fan base.

After the release of a 7” 45 rpm vinyl in 2023, on 13 September 2024 the debut album The Road Ahead will be released with ten soul hits. The compositions are rooted in the classical soul from the 60s and 70s by Motown and Stax, but also have the modern soul vibe. If you have little time, listen at least to focus track 3 "You're the One", a smooth song that can instantly be played on the radio. The band has the Rock Supplies in Amsterdam as its headquarters. This is where guitarist Max de Kok and bassist Dimitri Gelens have a studio where the songs are recorded. Singer Remko Spaaij has that dark soul voice that excites and thrills every room. Soul Survivors, gonna take you higher, higher, higher!

Limited to 300 copies.

From the deepest trenches of deadstock 45s and the unsung annals of soft rock infamy, we present Sr4ht02: (Till You're) Back In My Arms.

Universal Cave and the Street Road Band cover Dan Strimer with Insured Sound's cult anthem (Till You're) Back In My Arms which was originally released as a 45 in 1977 on Lost Nation Records out of Guysville, Ohio. When Universal Cave featured Back in My Arms on Soft Rock for Hard Times Vol 8 in 2023, we reached out to Dan Strimer to tell him how much we loved his record, and quickly made a friend who helped us release a cover of his song 47 years after it first came out. Dan is still making music to this day and there are even rumors of some unreleased recordings making their way out in the near future.

On vacation in Hawaii when we released Soft Rock for Hard Times Vol 8, Alex Tebbs Mitchell of Universal Cave kept coming back to Dan's catchy, rural classic rock tune. When Alex returned to Philadelphia, he assembled the Street Road Band to record a laid back, 'southwestern Balearic' cover version with André Ethier on vocals, Charles Simon on guitar, Jesse Spearhawk on Pedal Steel, Alex Tebbs Mitchell on Rhodes and bass, Ryan M. Todd on synthesizers, and Shawn Ryan and Brian Cassidy on additional programming and arrangement. The result is a blissful soft rock ballad inspired by the likes of Chris Rea and Mark Knopfler.

After recording the cover, we called in the UK's finest Balearic maestro's Coyote to take the multitracks to the White Isle and back for a remix worthy of Cafe Del Mar. Coyote send the song into a dreamy, dubby, deep house groove, confirming that the record is, in fact, Balearic.

Mixed by Alex Tebbs Mitchell Mastered by Mat Leffler-Schulman

British Funk Renegades - Baker Brothers: A Legacy of Groove and Innovation
Since 2001, British funk luminaries the Baker Brothers have been at the forefront of the UK funk scene, consistently redefining the genre while staying true to its roots. Their groove, deeply embedded in soulful nostalgia, draws inspiration from legendary acts such as Steely Dan, Sly and the Family Stone, The Doobie Brothers, D'Angelo, The Roots, The Meters, and Prince.
Renowned for their electrifying live performances, the Baker Brothers deliver an "in-your-face" experience that takes audiences on a journey through their extensive back catalogue, spanning eight studio albums and four live albums. These albums feature collaborations with notable artists, including Hamish Stuart of the Average White Band, Snowboy, and soul divas Vanessa Freeman, Hannah Williams, Acantha Lang, and Katie Holmes.
With over ten tours in Japan and numerous European tours under their belt, the Baker Brothers have proven their enduring appeal. They continue to navigate the challenges of band life with unwavering creativity and passion, using music as their vehicle to overcome life's hurdles.

As they forge ahead with new creations, the Baker Brothers' signature sound—characterised by tight horns, a driving rhythm section, and irresistibly funky guitar riffs—remains as killer as ever. Their journey is a testament to their longevity and their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of funk.

Sourcing rare records to reissue can involve meticulous research and years of digging, but then occasionally, Lady Luck smiles upon you. We probably would have never heard of the Medium Wave Band if Gary from Mr Bongo hadn't known Wolverhampton-based record dealer, Steve Ward. Whilst offering Gary some records for sale, he remembered he had a spare copy of an old 7" single that he thought Gary might like. Steve didn't know much about the release, and it had never sold on Discogs. Looking at the record itself, it was minimalist in appearance and information, there wasn't much to go on other than that it was from the Birmingham area. The mystery drew us in…

The A-side, 'So Tender’, is a late-night, jazzy slow-jam, with beautifully sultry, soulful female vocals which sounded vaguely familiar. On listening to the B side, 'Games (Instrumental)’, you are rewarded with a superb example of Britfunk / independent UK jazz-funk. The pulsating, bass-led dancefloor groove and sensibility is a sound reminiscent of productions usually found on labels such as Elite, but the 7” was not released on a label, it was a private press by the band themselves. So who are the enigmatic The Medium Wave Band?

After some fruitful internet digging and correspondence, we got the answers. The band lineup featured Elliot Browne on guitar (lead & rhythm), Ron Lyseight on guitar (rhythm), Andrew Proverbs on keyboards, Tony Peart on drums, Paul Snook on bass, Linton Levy on saxophone, and surprisingly, the beautiful vocals we had been enjoying were those of Jackie Graham, aka the hugely successful UK vocalist, Jaki Graham. Maybe best known for her pop hit with David Grant, 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', but also featuring on the cult classic track 'Fire In My Heart' by Escape From New York.

Influenced by artists and bands including George Benson, Ronnie Laws, Weather Report, George Duke, Azimuth and Chick Corea to name a few, the guys booked into a studio near the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham and recorded the two tracks that make up this 7”. Only 200 copies of the original 7" were ever pressed and were sold mostly in Birmingham at Summit Records by the band’s friend DJ Frenchi, as well as at live shows. Despite its limited distribution channels, the record received solid support from fans and those in the music industry, including Morgan Khan of the influential record label, Street Sounds. DJ and journalist, Lindsay Wesker, reviewed the release and this led to the band travelling to London for several radio interviews. They played live shows across the country, including at the prestigious Ronnie Scott's in London, and supported both Shakatak and Weapon of Peace in Birmingham.

Thanks to all those involved bringing this release into fruition and for solving the mystery behind a wonderful Britfunk and UK soul record that could have otherwise been lost in the mists of time.

7" release of Onegram's Caribbean Reggae Disco cover of INCOGNITO's acid jazz classic "crazy FOR You"! Incognito's smash hit "Crazy For You," released in 1991 during the Acid Jazz boom, has been covered by Onegram in 2024, more than 30 years later, with an exquisite arrangement. The rhythm section is groovier, the horn arrangement is full of Onegram's style, and the steel pan is used impressively to create a fun Caribbean disco reggae song while maximizing the quality of the original. The B-Side contains the ET Edit, which is optimized for DJ play and has a pleasantly pleasant effect processing.

Rance Allen churned that rhythm smack between gospel music and soul. Rance brought the fire, his every performance a dedicated reach beyond expectations. It's like he lived in a realm above ours, and his performances were a ladder from our plane to his, an invitation to step up, step out, be good, do right, dance while doing it, jive and smile. And praise the Lord. Rance sang about Jesus Christ, even when he didn't mention him. His music was an invitation to groove along, but it was also a stepping stone to church. He focused not on the fire and brimstone but on building community, helping those in need, a church of embrace. His two brothers were his band, along with Stax guests. On "Everybody's Talkin'" you can hear disco coming around the corner and also the influence of Isaac Hayes. "You Need A Friend Like Mine" builds on the Staple Singers' "If You're Ready (Come Go With Me)", and it features some of Rance's finest falsetto, up there with Rev. Claude Jeter and Al Green. Rance moves your spirit.

On Mardi Gras morning, your eyes may feast on the intricate and elaborate beadwork of the Indians as they dance down the street, but the first thing you'll hear when they make their way toward you is the back line, known as "the rumble". Featuring seven GRAMMY-nominated musicians, The Rumble is more than just a band-it's an opportunity to be immersed in a wholly unique facet of New Orleans culture. Composed of Second Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr. of the Golden Eagles, trumpeter Aurélien Barnes, trombonist José Maize Jr., bassist TJ Norris, guitarist Ari Teitel, keyboardist Andriu Yanovski, and drummer Trenton O'Neal, the group fuses iconic New Orleans funk in the vein of The Meters and The Neville Brothers-but updated, modern and vibrant befitting the next generation-with electrifying brass and the singular visual splendor of the Black Masking carnival tradition.On their debut studio effort, Stories from the Battlefield, The Rumble boldly stake their claim as the torch bearers for where New Orleans music is going- a progressive, propulsive sound that packs venues across America, while keeping a firm grasp on the unique tradition that informs it. The musicians here don't just have world class chops, they live this tradition every single day. Throughout the music, it's evident- from the exaltation to "do it for your people" on 'Take It Back' to the reminder that it takes a "heart of steel" to survive on the album's title track- these Stories aren't fiction.

To change your mood or mental state - change your Vibration A fragment from the Kyballion has deeply resonated with the band in recent years. Everything is mental, as Above so Below. Balthvs deeply believes in these tenets, and their manifestation is through music. Melodies that try to resonate deep within and generate a different type of Vibration. From the psychedelic experience arises a more balanced lifestyle, and from arduous and uncertain times arises the desire to have inner peace of mind. Music is medicine for the soul and the trio plays this music to wind down, relax, and be more present. It's music from the 21st century, a time when the world has deeply connected to one another via the digital realm, cultures are now free from geographic boundaries, they influence, mesh, and collide with one another. Turkish melodies meet Latin rhythms, from instrumental tunes to Spanish and English lyrics. The band freely takes from all corners of the world, and it reflects on the global audience they have slowly amassed in the past 4 years. Third Vibration is a celebration of life; a deep respect for the power of music.

Following multiple band projects, including the parallel powerhouse acts Spinnen and the ecstatic Turkish-Armenian-Friendship TAF, multi-instrumentalist Soft Violet, now releases her solo debut album: Sterner Stuff. And that it is: Guttural with a pounding heart laid out on sexy stainless-steel surface, defiantly glinting. Playful experimentation reigns free, fusing drum-machine and analogue synths with bass and vocals, to create a hybrid glittering creature that shines sublime.

The Ancient Cosmonauts are a collective formed by the Munich trumpet player Michael Treetop Voss (Feed LA, Poets Of Rhythm). The band explores the spaces opening in a harmonically undefined cosmos of singular voices structured by the beat of drums. With lyrics based on the fundamental experience of human life, the Ancient Cosmonauts connect with their listeners using the language of soul, the energy of funk and the freedom of jazz. “Free as I Wanna Be” was initially written and performed as a solo piece for trumpet. It is centered around ideas of self-determination and empowerment, which are prerequisites for both individual and collective freedom. The arrangement begins with an up-tempo conga and hi-hat pulse as the listener is immersed in the emerging elegiac horn melody. Driving collective rhythmic parts and the duet of lead singer Cris Soaz and Treetop add contrast and context to fully reflect the joys of freedom. The flip side “Intergalactical Travel” is a musical meditation on the idea of the Voyager probes (first launched back in 1975) as they continue on their trajectories into infinite space and their frail and fading connections to their terrestrial birthplace.

10, 9, 8, 7, 6… the countdown to blastoff has started! Paris-based band Setenta is preparing for their upcoming 20th anniversary by releasing their sixth album, Apollo Solar Drive. The record is poised to be their best yet and is the culmination of an odyssey of artistic discovery. Setenta has been constantly striving for illumination through the years, yet also exploring the dark side of the human condition along the way. As the band describes it, this record is an Afro-Latin retro-futurist tribute to the sun. If their previous album, Materia Negra, launched the Setenta space shuttle crew into the void of “dark” matter and black holes, they now change course and valiantly approach the sun at full warp speed, taking us from darkness into the light. Miraculously, Setenta manage to bring some of the rhythmic and harmonic material they’ve explored on Earth with them, yet boldly dare to go where no one has gone before, challenging themselves to take their music, and their audience, to uncharted dimensions and new realms of existence.

In keeping with the themes of Materia Negra, FIP (Radio France) selection in 2020, Setenta’s sixth mission to explore “the great beyond” of “inner space” is aptly titled Apollo Solar Drive, emphasizing the band’s turning to the life-giving light of the sun for inspiration while playfully echoing the title of Eddie Palmieri’s Latin funk and social commentary masterpiece, Harlem River Drive. The overall vibe is warm and positive, propelled by the dual energy thrusters of funky, fierce beats and deceptively complex arrangements, yet going down smooth in the best sense of the word, like your favorite tropical cocktail or classic jazz dance fusion record of the 1970s. Of course this delicious treat is served with a special Setenta flavor all its own.

This time around, Apollo Solar Drive celebrates the trajectory of the band’s unique interstellar journey by deploying a resolutely jazzy, “funkadelic” angle to their beloved Afro-Latin music. Setenta’s band members tell their truths as a collective, with an emphasis on instrumental sections, focusing on the interweaving of multiple keyboards and guitars, while condensing the vocals to group choruses, as opposed to the solo voices of the past. The overall approach is more futuristic in its conception and realization, from the arrangements to the sonic engineering, although the rhythmic base still remains rooted in Afro-Cuban traditions as well as those of other Caribbean nations.

Pablo E. Yglesias (DJ Bongohead) of Peace & Rhythm (usa)

10, 9, 8, 7, 6… the countdown to blastoff has started! Paris-based band Setenta is preparing for their upcoming 20th anniversary by releasing their sixth album, Apollo Solar Drive. The record is poised to be their best yet and is the culmination of an odyssey of artistic discovery. Setenta has been constantly striving for illumination through the years, yet also exploring the dark side of the human condition along the way. As the band describes it, this record is an Afro-Latin retro-futurist tribute to the sun. If their previous album, Materia Negra, launched the Setenta space shuttle crew into the void of “dark” matter and black holes, they now change course and valiantly approach the sun at full warp speed, taking us from darkness into the light. Miraculously, Setenta manage to bring some of the rhythmic and harmonic material they’ve explored on Earth with them, yet boldly dare to go where no one has gone before, challenging themselves to take their music, and their audience, to uncharted dimensions and new realms of existence.

In keeping with the themes of Materia Negra, FIP (Radio France) selection in 2020, Setenta’s sixth mission to explore “the great beyond” of “inner space” is aptly titled Apollo Solar Drive, emphasizing the band’s turning to the life-giving light of the sun for inspiration while playfully echoing the title of Eddie Palmieri’s Latin funk and social commentary masterpiece, Harlem River Drive. The overall vibe is warm and positive, propelled by the dual energy thrusters of funky, fierce beats and deceptively complex arrangements, yet going down smooth in the best sense of the word, like your favorite tropical cocktail or classic jazz dance fusion record of the 1970s. Of course this delicious treat is served with a special Setenta flavor all its own.

This time around, Apollo Solar Drive celebrates the trajectory of the band’s unique interstellar journey by deploying a resolutely jazzy, “funkadelic” angle to their beloved Afro-Latin music. Setenta’s band members tell their truths as a collective, with an emphasis on instrumental sections, focusing on the interweaving of multiple keyboards and guitars, while condensing the vocals to group choruses, as opposed to the solo voices of the past. The overall approach is more futuristic in its conception and realization, from the arrangements to the sonic engineering, although the rhythmic base still remains rooted in Afro-Cuban traditions as well as those of other Caribbean nations.

Pablo E. Yglesias (DJ Bongohead) of Peace & Rhythm (usa)

Tramp Records International proudly presents: The 1975 Baltimore Colts Glenn Doughty and his All-Pro Shake & Bake Band! In 1975 Glenn "Shake & Bake" Doughty Wide Receiver for the Baltimore Colts formed the Shake & Bake Band. Glenn Doughty and his Baltimore Colts Shake and Bake Band of the 70's is the first musical group consisting of former NFL All-Pro players that Tramp Records has partnered with in its history!

Doughty is a Detroit 'Motown' native and All-American from the University of Michigan, that was recently crowned national champion and the winningest college football program in Ncaa History. Doughty and his four world-class athletic teammates formed the heart of the band. The Shake & Bake Band in the mid 70s played live at Baltimore's hottest Clubs with teammates in attendance on Monday nights after Shakin' & Bakin' their opponents on Sunday at Memorial Stadium. Doughty's sports hero was Muhammad Ali. He originated the popular Shake & Bake athletic movement scoring touchdowns. He recited Shake & Bake poetry like Ali to make predictions after games on local and national TV to celebrate Colts victories. His lyrics in his music were used to fire up thousands of his Colts fans and his teammates. Many fans felt the group sounded like WAR the popular funk group from California. Members of the Shake & Bake Band were: Glenn "Dr. Shake" Doughty #7, All-Time Colts leading Wide Receiver, producer, lead singer, congas and lyrics, Ray "RC Cola" Chester, All-Pro Tight End, Super Bowl Champion, Bass, Baltimore, Maryland, David "dt" White, Wide Receiver Lead Guitar, producer, sound technician. Buffalo N.Y., Lloyd "The Bullet" Mumford, Defensive Back Harmonica, Miami Florida, Freddie "Bones" Scott, All-Pro Wide Receiver on percussion, Grady Arkansas, and Bruce "Turn it Loose" Barnett, Drummer and shoe salesman. Randallstown, Maryland. This group of talented stars lead the Colts to its first ever three consecutive Eastern Division Championships.

Between 1975 and 1977 they also became the first group of pro athletes to create two records while playing football together for a NFL team. Their debut 7-inch single from 1976 was cut at 33 1/3 RPM due to the length of the songs. "Shake and Bake Pt.1" lasts for 4:30 minutes while Part 2 stretches out to an incredible 7:00 minutes!

Additionally, "Shake and Bake Pt.1&2" will be featured on the forthcoming "Movements Vol.12" compilation album, due September this year.

Key selling points:
- limited to 500 copies!
- deluxe picture sleeve edition!
- official re-issue, done in cooperation with Glenn Doughty!
- Glenn Doughty and his Baltimore Colts Shake and Bake Band of the 70's is the first musical group consisting of former NFL All-Pro players that Tramp Records has partnered with in its history!

** Initial 400 LPs Contain A Bonus 7" Single **
Movements Vol.12 – A bag full of rare rhythm & blues, mod-jazz, and mid 70s funk.

Side A starts with rhythm & blues from the 1960s. Most of the tracks were pulled from hopelessly obscure 7" singles. The only names of which some of you might be familiar with are most likely Mat Mathews and Lu Elliott. However, both original 45 RPM singles are pretty hard to find these days, especially in playable condition.

Side B is all about deepfunk this time. "Hipper Snapper " is a prime example of that genre. Some say its groove is reminiscent of Charles Wright's "Express Yourself. Agreed! The Villagers are responsible for the first 'aha' moment. Their (previously unreleased!) version of "Funky Broadway" would have certainly astounded even Dyke & The Blazers. Representing Germany on this volume: The Rippers, also called the "Offenburg Beatles"! Back in the USA, John Fogerty has probably never heard of this heavy school-funk cover of "Proud Mary". Drum breaks galore!

Side C begins with another German contribution. Saxophonist Gus Brendel delivers a mod-jazz belter of the highest order as do The Hornets. Definitely sure-shots for any dance floors! High time for 'aha' moment #2. Many bands have tried their hands on a cover version of the Nat Adderley jazz classic, incl. vibraphone player Bret Breitinger! The perfect choice to finish this side is Downtown Trio's smooth and groovy cover of Gershwin's "Summertime ".

Side D is reserved for proper 1970s funk. ONYX's "Break It Loose " has become a certified Rare Groove classic. Here you can enjoy it for the first time with the blessing of the band! Glenn Doughty and his Baltimore Colts Shake and Bake Band of the 70's is the first musical group consisting of former NFL All-Pro players that Tramp Records has partnered with in its history! Watch out, "Shake and Bake " will be re-released on a good old 45 RPM single, too!

Those of you who have been enjoying the detective work of the people behind the label over the past 21 years know that the Movements series can be easily considered as the flagship compilation series on Tramp. So, after having listened to the entire selection of this brand new volume we sincerely hope that we will have achieved our aim to surprise, delight, and enlighten you once again!

Key selling points:
- initial 400 LPs contain a bonus 7" of a Superrare funk 45
- incl. full album download code - deluxe double-gatefold LP with detailed liner notes & unseen photographs
- ALL but three songs appear on CD, LP & digital for the very first-time

Transparent Red Vinyl.Timmion Records introduces a new instrumental group Bronze, Silver & Brass, an eight-piece brass ensemble that is about to make waves with their debut 7" vinyl single "Conrad's Lesson" b/w "Ward to Ward". This banger of a release blesses you with two spectacular tunes that showcases the group's influences from soulful stage band music to NOLA street funk.On the A-side, "Conrad's Lesson" delivers a pulsing midtempo groove, driven by funky drums and adorned with beautifully mellow horn melodies. Meanwhile, the B-side gem, "Ward to Ward" offers upbeat New Orleans second line funk, exuding the spirit of celebration and joy through syncopated beats and spirited horn arrangements.Inspired by the soulful sounds of Kashmere Stage Band, Curtis Mayfield - and of course contemporary trailblazers such as Young Blood Brass Band and Hot 8 Brass Band - Bronze, Silver & Brass boldly blend a gumbo that that oozes musical love without excuses. With this debut single, they invite listeners to celebrate the rich heritage of brass music while keeping things severely funky. Get ready and march to the infectious rhythms of Bronze, Silver & Brass.

Timmion Records introduces a new instrumental group Bronze, Silver & Brass, an eight-piece brass ensemble that is about to make waves with their debut 7" vinyl single "Conrad's Lesson" b/w "Ward to Ward". This banger of a release blesses you with two spectacular tunes that showcases the group's influences from soulful stage band music to NOLA street funk.On the A-side, "Conrad's Lesson" delivers a pulsing midtempo groove, driven by funky drums and adorned with beautifully mellow horn melodies. Meanwhile, the B-side gem, "Ward to Ward" offers upbeat New Orleans second line funk, exuding the spirit of celebration and joy through syncopated beats and spirited horn arrangements.Inspired by the soulful sounds of Kashmere Stage Band, Curtis Mayfield - and of course contemporary trailblazers such as Young Blood Brass Band and Hot 8 Brass Band - Bronze, Silver & Brass boldly blend a gumbo that that oozes musical love without excuses. With this debut single, they invite listeners to celebrate the rich heritage of brass music while keeping things severely funky. Get ready and march to the infectious rhythms of Bronze, Silver & Brass.

Longtime friends and part time bandmates Woody and Jeremy return with their new album Hold Up, Look Back. Their junior effort turns out to be their most cohesive, tasteful and mature work yet. It’s also goofy, silly, often dryly funny and pretty much always funky. Or in other words it could be considered a classic Woody and Jeremy record.

It’s got that low-key “Hey folks are over, let’s put on some vinyl and rev up the turntable” kind of energy to it. It’s a break up record but it’s also a get together record. It’s a thinking about the past kind of record but it’s also a moving into the future kind of record. It’s a record about learning from your mistakes and moving towards emotional resolution, but it’s also about enjoying life, being horny, stupid and having fun.

The tracks move from yacht rock to full on dance funk vibes. Woody and company are operating at an all time high in the rhythm and grooves department.

A usual cast of characters returns to flesh out the sound, including Joe Dart and Andrew Vogt trading off bass duties, Packy Lundholm handling guitar and percussion and Reuben Garza on drums. A few special guests appear as well, including percussionist Brijean Murphy, saxophonist Ted Taforo, multi-instrumentalist David Celia and vocalists Jess Best and Taylor Harvey.

The album was recorded at Rax Trax and Sound Vault Studios in Chicago and in living rooms and backyard sheds all across Los Angeles. Paul Cherry mixed the record and added a guitar lick or two as well for good measure.

The tracks “Love Letter” and “In My Cessna 206” have become band favorites but there’s also two incredible six minute plus jammers on the B-side that aren’t to be missed - “Just A Little Bit” a Bowie-esque dance number and “End Of The Line” which might be the boys at their most Steely Dan yet. But whatever might be your standout track, hopefully this fun and groovy album finds a place in your heart and on your record shelf.

180gr reissue. Cover and vinyl are close to NM.

The Blakes, praised by Pitchfork for their "swampy guitars, twitchy rhythms and power pop vocal harmonies", recall the stinging catchiness of early Who, Kinks, and other spitfire rock bands. With the influences of Hank Williams and Brian Wilson hanging from their sleeves, brothers Garnet and Snow Keim busked across America, scribbling songs in hostels and motel bathrooms, en route to Seattle. There they met animalistic, drummer Bob Husak in a local coffee shop, and The Blakes were born. The dynamic threesome hit the road and have been bringing gritty rock and roll to the masses ever since. Mixed and mastered by Martin Feveyear (Kings of Leon, Cornershop, Mudhoney), the band's UK/EU debut has arrived in the form of a limited edition 7" single featuring the raucous growl of "Two Times" and the poppy burst of non-album b-side "Die." Lookout for the full-length in Spring 2008.

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

“There are many facets to Misha Panfilov's music. As a music lover himself, reflecting on his extensive catalog reveals numerous references in his harmonic palette, making it challenging to fully encapsulate. This septet's formation embodies his unique sound on this, their second album “To The Mesosphere And Beyond." The music is imbued with optimism, featuring airy, soothing space-age voicings reminiscent of Terry Riley and Raymond Scott, all revolving around jazz. The integration of the unconventional to the genre—such as lap steel guitar, inspired by cosmic country music--serves as an endless wellspring for new musical expressions, and assists Misha in exploring fresh schemes.
The alburn represents the culmination of a remarkable two-week creative marathon. During this period, the band rehearsed and delivered two dynamic live performances at Paavli Kultuurivabrik in Talinn and Fasching in Stockholm. Drawing inspiration from these shows, Misha swiftly composed new musical pieces within two days at a country retreat, bringing the septet together once more for a spontaneous two-day recording session. Remarkably, the entire album creation process spanned merely four days. The urgency arose because the drummer, Leonid Galaganov, had a flight scheduled back to the States-where he resides immediately after the late-night recording session. Despite the time pressure, they successfully managed to beat the clock and hit just the right notes!
On the first day of the studio recording, an unexpected incident unfolded as Misha and bassist Monika Erdman were en route to the studio with a cargo of musical instruments-an untimely tire blowout. However, fear not! Even though Misha lacked prior experience in roadside repairs and driving skills, he rose to the occasion, handling the tire change with the same grace that permeates his music.
Overflowing with anticipation, Volodja Brodsky made his way to the studio with his newly acquired Korg electronic piano, only to face the setback of realizing it lacked a necessary European adapter. Consequently, on the initial recording day, he had to improvise with a peculiar and inexpensive Bontempl organ, imparting the track "Mesosphere" with its distinctive charm. This organ remained partially open most of the time due to the need for constant tuning. Fortunately, on the following day, Volodja managed to acquire the adapter, enabling him to utlize his electronic piano fully on "New Orbits" and partially on "Mesosphere"
Both compositions on this album are structured into four vignettes, transporting listeners beyond temporal and spatial boundaries. "Mesosphere" begins with Misha's distinctive lap steel guitar motif, progressing with intricately layered melodies from the brass section. Volodja Brodsky introduces a minimalist organ melody that effortiessly lifts the listener’s thoughts to ethereal heights. Misha later transitions to an acoustic rhythm guitar to introduce a Brazilan musical aesthetic. Sasha Petrov enters with a heartfelt tenor saxophone solo, weaving poignant melodies through the air. The music briefly pauses before ascending to new peaks with a soul-stirring trumpet solo by Kino Toshiki, radiating with energizing fervor. Volodja returns with a stripped-down bossa nova melody, setting the stage for a rhythmic swell as Sasha and Kino engage in a mellifluous and heartening solo dialogue, accompanied by lush flute embellishments from Ilja Gussarov. Ilja's flute work is delicate yet authoritative, steering the musical narrative skillfuly as the track traverses its graceful path. As the composition nears its conclusion, Ilja shows his improvisational finesse while the primary theme lingers, gradually dissolving into infinity.
"New Orbits” opens with yet another of Misha's unmistakable and captivating chant-like melodies, drawing the listener in with its allure. Volodja Brodsky seamlessly merges his musicality with Monica Erdman on bass and Leonid Galaganov on drums, creating an enchanting harmony that channels the spirit of Getachew Merkuria. Misha's willingness to break free from genre constraints is boldly displayed once more. Sasha Petrov ignites the music with an impassio-nate and searing saxophone solo before returning to its earlier gentler, more subtle sound. The groove then takes an unexpected turn, transitioning into a more stripped-down sound, with Leonid and Monika establishing a head-nod-ding rhythm. The track delves into a mysterious, psychedelic realm, with Ilja Gussarov's captivating flute taking center stage, heightened by Volodja’s interstellar synthesizer sounds. The Septet envelops the listener in a Don Cherry-esque mantra, as if performing an incantation to commune with the earth spirit. Misha's excellent mixing skills shine as he gently guides the listener from a transcendent state back to the odyssey of exploring new orbits and venturing beyond.” -RRGEMS RECORDS, March 2024

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.

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!"

Coloured Vinyl edition!

Remember that period at the turn of the century when people were talking about Lounge, Exotica and Easy Listening? It was the so-called Cocktail Generation phenomenon, of which VIP 200, a quartet formed in Italy in 1999, was the ultimate expression as a band. The most important input came from the reissues and compilations of Italian soundtracks that debuted with great success at the time, and VIP 200's interpretations of them were genuine, rustic and rich in atmospheres that led back precisely to music for the image. Even cinema, like Quentin Tarantino, has been fascinated and inspired by that sound by quoting it several times. The comparison and real meeting of VIP 200 with the Marc 4 as well as Alessandro Alessandroni and the legendary Piero Umiliani was fundamental. Soon after, they were also called from abroad by cult figures who wanted to interact with them such as German composer Peter Thomas with whom they recorded in Saint Tropez, DJ Maxwell Implosion and sessions in Capri with Miss Maki Nomiya of the Pizzicato Five for her solo record. It was a period of transition, the word "easy" that started from the Adriatic Riviera via Rome and Milan had made its way to Berlin, London and Tokyo. Their live shows, as well as their first and only record re-released for the first time on double gatefold vinyl by Cinedelic with many outtakes, alternated between danceable moments with fast rhythms such as shake, beat and soul funk, to more ethereal and psychedelic, to softer and more ironic ones. They loosely and spontaneously re-presented songs that before then no one had ever performed live with a band; 10 years later Calibro 35 would get there. All strictly from Italian composers or their own.Strong was the "fetishist" component that pushed them to research original instruments of the vintage, design, sound and atmosphere to be created. An iconographic record of the period, a must-have for those who lived through it and for those who want to understand its essence. Limited editions on double vinyl with gatefold cover

Sheer Magic Transparent Silver Glitter Colored Vinyl.Lost in the soot and fall out from Youngstown,Ohio's infamous Black Monday steel industry collapsewas Tony March's cross-generational Tammylabel. From its early days as a doo wop powerhouseto their last gasps chasing disco hits, Tammy unintentionallydocumented Youngstown's small butprolific Black music scene. This single LP surveysthe label's best R&B, soul, funk, and disco, with13 tracks from Ice Cold Love, Lynn Minor, J.C. &the Soul Angels, The Snapshots, Iron Knowledge,Roy Jefferson, and Steel City Band. Housed in adeluxe tip-on jacket, with a booklet crammed fullof notes and ephemera, The Tammy Label continuesNumero's 20 year tradition of preserving regionalOhio music.

Lost in the soot and fall out from Youngstown,Ohio's infamous Black Monday steel industry collapsewas Tony March's cross-generational Tammylabel. From its early days as a doo wop powerhouseto their last gasps chasing disco hits, Tammy unintentionallydocumented Youngstown's small butprolific Black music scene. This single LP surveysthe label's best R&B, soul, funk, and disco, with13 tracks from Ice Cold Love, Lynn Minor, J.C. &the Soul Angels, The Snapshots, Iron Knowledge,Roy Jefferson, and Steel City Band. Housed in adeluxe tip-on jacket, with a booklet crammed fullof notes and ephemera, The Tammy Label continuesNumero's 20 year tradition of preserving regionalOhio music.

The ascending soul sensation Fat Generous embarks on a heavenly collaboration Wai Wan. This record is an invitation to their soulful world of jazz influenced funk and R&B, Fat Generous have been making waves in their hometown playing alongside the likes of Fatboy Slim and Sister Sledge, and their raw onstage energy has gained the stamp of approval from the godfather funk himself, George Clinton. Recorded at the height of a record breaking heatwave, Fat Generous have captured the blissful respite of a 'NightTime Cool Breeze' in a silky laid back groover that formed their debut single back in September. Amassing over 30,000 streams in the first month, alongside radio play and feedback from the likes of Craig Charles & Giles Peterson. Channeling carefree vibes reminiscent of Roy Ayers’ 'Everybody Loves The Sunshine'. On the second side a Record Store Day exclusive track 'Shake Your Body Down' 'Shake Your Body Down' is an unparalleled journey through the funk filled cosmos, a collector's dream that pays homage to the pioneers of funk while paving the way for a new era of groove. This release is the precursor to a bigger release schedule for the band a good vibes only DIY recording project that has been produced by legendary nujazz producer, Wai Wan, whose fingerprints can be found all over releases on Chrysalis Records and Virgin Records. This record is a scene setter that introduces you to the groovy rhythms that Fat Generous deliver in excess at each of their live shows unique performances that lean on the group’s tight knit ability to improvise and reimagine their own music. Limited edition heavyweight 7 inch vinyl in a picture sleeve. Get the debut release and you're ahead of the curve.

Remember that period at the turn of the century when people were talking about Lounge, Exotica and Easy Listening? It was the so-called Cocktail Generation phenomenon, of which VIP 200, a quartet formed in Italy in 1999, was the ultimate expression as a band. The most important input came from the reissues and compilations of Italian soundtracks that debuted with great success at the time, and VIP 200's interpretations of them were genuine, rustic and rich in atmospheres that led back precisely to music for the image. Even cinema, like Quentin Tarantino, has been fascinated and inspired by that sound by quoting it several times. The comparison and real meeting of VIP 200 with the Marc 4 as well as Alessandro Alessandroni and the legendary Piero Umiliani was fundamental. Soon after, they were also called from abroad by cult figures who wanted to interact with them such as German composer Peter Thomas with whom they recorded in Saint Tropez, DJ Maxwell Implosion and sessions in Capri with Miss Maki Nomiya of the Pizzicato Five for her solo record. It was a period of transition, the word "easy" that started from the Adriatic Riviera via Rome and Milan had made its way to Berlin, London and Tokyo. Their live shows, as well as their first and only record re-released for the first time on double gatefold vinyl by Cinedelic with many outtakes, alternated between danceable moments with fast rhythms such as shake, beat and soul funk, to more ethereal and psychedelic, to softer and more ironic ones. They loosely and spontaneously re-presented songs that before then no one had ever performed live with a band; 10 years later Calibro 35 would get there. All strictly from Italian composers or their own.Strong was the "fetishist" component that pushed them to research original instruments of the vintage, design, sound and atmosphere to be created. An iconographic record of the period, a must-have for those who lived through it and for those who want to understand its essence. Limited editions on double vinyl with gatefold cover

Created by musician and multi-instrumentalist Jorge Queijo, Nelembe emerged with some drum rhythms recorded at random and stored on a hard drive. From them, and in the middle of the pandemic, Jorge Queijo built a musical concept that goes beyond borders and styles, embracing afrobeat and highlife, without forgetting soul, funk and jazz all of which in constant confrontation.

In addition to the rhythmic and sound issue, with several latitudes within it, afrobeat translates into a revolutionary and combative behavioral DNA of the fight for freedom and social justice. Daniel Belo's vocals and saxophonist João Cabrita's arrangements defined what the band came to call dirty afrobeat - a musical celebration where the only rule is the absence of rules, and the desire to be free that only music gives us.

Ridiculously rare vinyl, superb musicianship, and a Playboy Club are ingredients that make the Don Cunningham Quartet's Something For Everyone album so tasty. Luv N'Haight is proud to preserve and re-issue one of the most collectible, highly sought-after jazz-dance records.

"Bunnies plus food and drink equals good time."Brad Holiday's original liner notes (featured on the back of this album) tell it like it was. Don Cunningham, Marion Miller, John Mixon, and Manny Quintero formed the Don Cunningham Quartet and played ‘The Living Room’ at Hugh Hefner's St. Louis branch of the Playboy Club between 1965 and 1968. Their music was different from that of the jazz mainstays playing in ‘The Penthouse Room’. It was also different from any act in St. Louis at the time.

"Before forming the Quartet, I traveled to Fiji, Australia, the Caribbean and beyond as part of the Johnny Mathis group," explains Cunningham. "On these tours I discovered the "island sound," which was something I'd never been exposed to before. It was enchanting, mysterious and sexual."

The Quartet's unique blend of exotica, Latin and Brazilian rhythms, jazz and easy listening was a perfect fit for the Playboy Club. "I was influenced by having seen Arthur Lyman, Cal Tjader, Willie Bobo, Mongo Santamaria, and Harry Belafonte play live. Not to mention that I was buying all the Les Baxter I could get!" adds Cunningham. The band's sound caught the attention of Bob Webb, a wealthy local businessman. As a friend of piano player Marion Miller he'd learned of the Quartet’s popularity. "I don't want to work, you work, I'll put up the money," Miller recalls Webb 's words. Webb fronted the funds for Miller to create Exclusive records, releasing three albums and two 45rpm singles, including the Something For Everyone LP.

"The music was only sold locally. We never looked up a distributor and we really didn't have a regular record deal," says Miller. Don Cunningham only remembers selling and giving-away the album at Playboy appearances and to a few friends outside of club hours. Only 500 copies were ever printed, some mono, some stereo, it's not known how many of each format.

Of all the tracks on the album "Tabu" has been the biggest hit with the jazz-dance crowd. That track is the reason many collectors have the album on their wants lists. It remains a tune worthy of heavy DJ play. "Something For Everyone" has been at the top of my wants list for about 10 years now. All my other wants I have managed to track down over the years, but to own an original copy of the Don Cunningham album is as illusionary as driving a Rolls Royce," says producer/DJ Rainer Truby of Compost Records. "Not only is it a rare album it is also a good one. "Tabu" to me is the mother of all jazzdance records! A welcome release! I'm curious to check the rest of the LP, but "Tabu" is more than enough of a reason to stroll down to your local record dealer," he adds.

Miller and Cunningham are surprised but obviously very happy with the current interest in the album. Both are still active musicians and hope that this re-issue may stimulate even more work for them. At time of writing Cunningham was on the road with his wife, appearing as The Cunninghams on tour with the Count Basie band. "It's great that the album is being re-issued. There's truly a quality of music on it that has been missed for so long. In a way it's world music - Polynesian, samba, Brazil, jazz, West Indian. It has the energy of Latin and funk records. It's inspired by - but is not really - easy listening, you couldn't exactly sleep in our "Quiet Village!"" says Cunningham.

Andrew Jervis. Ubiquity, February 2003.

Bella Brown & the Jealous Lovers Unveil "Soul Clap" LP: A Fusion of Retro Soul/Funk and Modern Grooves
Los Angeles-based retro soul/funk sensation Bella Brown & the Jealous Lovers are set to ignite the music scene with their highly anticipated LP, "Soul Clap." Born from the creative genius of Grammy Award-winning vocalist/songwriter Carol Hatchett, Bella Brown emerges as a diva with a fiery stage presence, drawing inspiration from the likes of Tina Turner and Sharon Jones, and channeling the empowered female leads of 70s Blaxploitation films. Led by producer/bassist/songwriter Daniel Pearson, The Jealous Lovers assemble an impressive ensemble of A-list musicians, boasting pedigrees that include names like Mick Jagger, Elton John, Whitney Houston, Prince, and Stevie Wonder. This musical collective is on a relentless quest to redefine the boundaries of music, infusing soul and funk with elements of jazz, rock, and Afro-Caribbean influences.
The essence of "Soul Clap" is derived from the cultural phenomena it is named after—a shared and improvised rhythm-making by a collective. The LP, spanning 40 minutes of pure musical bliss, invites the audience to immerse themselves in the groove and discover their individual truths in the music.
The title track, "Soul Clap," and the infectious "Living Proof" serve as funky dance bangers, echoing the spirit of Bohannan and The Tramps. These tracks, punctuated with jazzy improvisations and soulful horn arrangements, are simple yet joyful expressions of shared humanity and self-love.
"Coming For You" is Bella's audacious response to the soul/funk classic Apache, boldly announcing her and The Jealous Lovers' arrival on the modern soul landscape. "I Found You" takes a northern soul love song approach, reminiscent of Gloria Jones with a touch of modern influence, giving it a distinct Amy Winehouse feel.
Bella Brown seamlessly weaves social commentary into her art. "Bang Bang Bang," an uptempo, funky Motown groove, cleverly uses Curtis Mayfield's sense of sarcasm to reflect on American gun culture. "Lady Time" takes a driving afrobeat groove, employing brassy horns and reggae-like echoes to address the issue of homelessness.
However, the album is not without its lighthearted moments. "Fast As Lightning" celebrates a cleaner future by imagining Jimi Hendrix joining Ike and Tina Turner's band to create a classic Chuck Berry car song. "There Is Love" blends horns, strings, and vocals reminiscent of The Stylistics over a Chi-Lites style rhythm section, to create a lush message of support to those among us that may find the world a bit overwhelming at moments. Finally, "What Will You Leave Behind," is a revamped version of the group's sold-out vinyl 45 release. This track serves as a powerful call to action for a better future, delivered over a straight-up Motown groove with a funky Sly Stone finish.
Bella Brown & the Jealous Lovers have crafted an album that transcends genres, embracing the roots of soul and funk while pushing musical boundaries.
"Soul Clap" is a celebration of individual truths, shared experiences, and the timeless power of music.

Originally released on Blue Candle Records in 1977, Steppin' Out by the 13th Floor is a true treasure that deserves a cherished place in the collection of every soul and funk connoisseur. This long-awaited reissue brings back the original magic, preserving the essence and impact it had on the music scene.

Its profound influence on bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers is undeniable, solidifying its status as an essential gem in the annals of musical history. Now, with this reissue, you have the opportunity to experience the same captivating rhythms and infectious melodies that captivated audiences decades ago.

Are you ready to awaken your boogie spirit and infuse your living room with the long-lost spark of the mid-seventies? Brace yourself for an immersive experience as you surrender to the timeless grooves and soulful vibes that will transport you to a bygone era of musical
enchantment. Allow the music to ignite your soul, reigniting the vibrant energy of the past and instilling in you an irresistible urge to groove like never before.

Japan's Wilson Pickett, the incomparable soul singer Masakazu Sunagawa. This 7-inch version of a cover (1978 live version) of Sam Cooke's classic "A Change Is Gonna Come" is as if it became his own. This is a Japanese cover of "A Change Is Gonna Come" from a 1978 live performance with Nasty Chain, his first solo band after the breakup of Sooo Baad Revue, which had made a name for itself. The vocals seem to penetrate from the earth to the sky, and the tension-filled performance is overwhelming. The B-side is a cover of Wilson Pickett's "Something You Got" from a live session with Cold Rubbish featuring Masaki Ueda and Yoshiro Hagiwara, an original member of South to South. The generous sense of rhythm and the extension of the voice are the quintessence of Masakazu Sunagawa.

The Ghetto Brothers' "Power-Fuerza" (1972), one of the best Latin funk albums ever recorded_ Produced by boogaloo don Bobby Marin, this masterpiece is a sonic testament to the Ghetto Brothers' fusion of resilience, cultural richness, and musical innovation. Each track is a vibrant tapestry, weaving together the raw energy of the South Bronx streets and the soulful melodies born from the trio's Puerto Rican heritage. Out of print for quite some time now, we are so happy to make this obscure Latin funk gem available again! The Ghetto Brothers embraced music, crafting a potent, NYC-flavored musical fusion that caught the attention of record mogul Ismael Maisonave (Salsa Records). Their collaboration resulted in the recording of eight tracks in a single electrifying day at Manhattan's Fine Tone Studios, skillfully produced by Latin studio maestro Bobby Marin (Harvey Averne, La Lupe, Brooklyn Sounds_). This musical odyssey showcases the band's ability to seamlessly blend genres, creating a NYC-flavored stew that captivates listeners with its authenticity. The hypnotic rhythms, infectious guitar riffs, and impassioned vocals reflect the Ghetto Brothers' commitment to expressing their unique experiences and uplifting their community through the universal language of music.

There’s a moment before each Con Brio show — before the backflips, the guitar solos, the buoyant horn lines over bass, drum and synth — when all seven band members come in for a huddle. It's a way to say grace; an acknowledgment of live music as a team sport; a moment of stillness before they explode. "Let's work," they say, their heads bowed together. And then they do.

Named for an Italian musical direction meaning "with spirit," Con Brio is a San Francisco Bay Area band that plays soul, psych-rock and R&B as fresh and freethinking as the place they call home. With charismatic singer Ziek McCarter bringing "the dance moves, splits and all, of James Brown" (KQED) and a band that "comes across like a party punk version of Sly and the Family Stone" (Consequence of Sound), Con Brio is known to convert anyone who sees their electric live show.

Founded in 2013 by veteran players with vastly different musical backgrounds*, the band quickly became a favorite up and down the West Coast, then across the U.S., and then overseas in places like Japan and the Netherlands.

Explorer, out on July 6th, both builds on the success of Paradise and serves as a travelogue of sorts — a reflection on the two years of nearly nonstop touring that followed their first record's success.

Having proved themselves on an international stage, Con Brio breaks new ground on Explorer, expanding beyond raw energy and retro sounds toward a more contemporary, layered production style, all delivered with road-tested confidence. On "I Wanna" — a lusty, mischievous ode to the art of catching a stranger's eye across a crowded club — McCarter pours his voice, richer than ever, over a thick, irresistibly danceable rhythm from Jonathan Kirchner (bass) and Andrew Laubacher (drums).

"Body Language" slows that theme to a simmer, with a nimble, lyrical horn line from Marcus Stephens (saxophone) and Brendan Liu (trumpet) front and center. Songs like "United State of Mind" and "Royal Rage," meanwhile, reflect on America's current moment, urging strength and perspective in the face of cynicism and apathy. Over a cheerful guitar lick from Andrews, the former track sings the praises of travel, the ways it can make the world feel bigger and smaller all at once — and how sometimes you have to leave home to see it with fresh eyes. "Rage" is a rally cry, a call to resistance, with Laubacher's kick drum leading the march: "Feeling the world pulling apart, where is the we in who we are?" asks McCarter. "When will it end, where do we start?"

Then there's Con Brio's tendency to upend expectations: they've never been afraid of a little genre-bending. "Heart Shaped Box" began as a fun cover the band arranged on a whim on a rare day off on tour; within weeks it became one of the most exciting moments in the band's live show. On the record, it's a playful yet potent tribute, served surprisingly well by horns and a smart, slinky synth line from Patrick Glynn.

Ultimately, Explorer is a leap for Con Brio in more ways than one. It's a big record, with plenty of joy, a few growing pains, and more questions than answers. What does it mean to be an American band traveling the world in the year 2018 with a message of hope and tolerance? The record sounds, unsurprisingly, like a band on the verge. Wherever Explorer takes them, they go with open eyes. They're ready to huddle up, take the stage, and get to work — where they've found that, night after night, the things that divide us don't stand a chance on the dance floor.

Four essential cuts from Ghana & Cape Verde, compiled by Arp Frique...

Music is a great connector, bringing people together in many ways. On his journey in music so far, Arp Frique has been fortunate to meet many beautiful artists. The songs on this first edition of "Radio Familia" are deeply connected to the musicians he performs with. Join the music family on a trip through exciting sounds from Ghana and Cape Verde and listen to their story in both words and music.

Arp Frique never played a show without including Americo Brito’s epic song “C’est Dudu”. The song originally appeared on his album “Fidjo Di Mizeria” from 1989 but he had been performing his anthem for years and it came in many shapes and forms. After spending a lot of time in Paris, he (like many others in those days) got inspired by new records from Guadeloupe and Martinique, especially “kadans”. Incorporating latin piano motifs borrowed from salsa and merengue and a bold choice to sing in French, the song and album became an instant success for Americo in and outside the clubscene (note: DJs were not the primary source of dance music in those days, bands played all night to keep the dancers moving). The addition of C’est Dudu to this compilation became especially relevant since Americo recently passed away. Fortunately, his anthem just like all his other music will remain with us for decades to come.

While going through the archives with Americo Brito for the Radio Verde compilation, he introduced Arp Frique to a band called Imilux Star, of course again well connected with Americo. This Cape Verdean band residing in Luxemburg (where there is a substantial Cape Verdean community) definitely added a different flavor to the musical pallet the islands are famous for: heavy syncopated rhythms coming from the drum computer. They released two albums which both became very popular in their scene and the track “Yolanda” from their 1988 album “Jota Dê” got to Arp Frique’s attention too late to add to the Radio Verde comp. The band is still performing to this day in the Luxemburg-Cape Verdean live circuit.

While Arp Frique was on the road with his lead singer Mariseya, they talked much and deep about Ghanaian music (especially highlife) and he learned a lot about the community from Ghana in the Netherlands, mostly in Amsterdam and The Hague. Mariseya’s dad, Nana Adomako Nyamekye, came to see their liveshow while in the UK which was very special to them considering he is one of the highlife artists Arp Frique has grown to be very fond of. His deeply funky and bubbly bass driven song “Obra Twa Owuo” is about life and death, telling us we should all love each other as we still have life to live. Originally released on “Ano Plan” from 1982, the album is filled with philosophical advice. In his own words: “A message to all humans that something awaits us all at the end of life. Let’s live together with love.

Bnnyhunna, from the Ghanaian community in the Netherlands, joined Arp Frique’s live experience several times playing keyboards and synthesizers. His dad Elvis Kwasi Ankomah, just like him, developed a high level of musicianship while performing regularly in church. The song “Fa Wokoma Mame” (give me your heart) from his only studioalbum “Mfa Menko” released in 1995 is about showing his love to a lady but only if she puts her trust in him completely. The album talks about love, pain, relationships and life. Having worked with artists like Daddy Lumba, Nana Ampadu, Amakye Dede and many other hiplife and highlife legends, he still plays in church every week and has been doing so ever since he was 15 years young.

Ella Thompson’s Domino is a spooky, bittersweet collection of cinematic soul cuts influenced by 1970s Italian 'Giallo' film scores, with luminous vocals that draw a line between 60s icons like Nancy Sinatra and contemporary soul artists like Kadhja Bonet. Ella’s effortless singing and haunting lyrics paint angular pictures in the moody darkness. The sparse production is intentionally cinematic, deeply influenced by the music of Italian ‘Giallo’ film scores of the 1970s, particularly by composers like Piero Piccioni but comparable to current artists like Adrian Younge or Bad Bad Not Good in a meditative mood. Minimal but propulsive bass and drums know when to hang back, as they do in the title track and when to step forward as they do in the chugging, deep and funky rhythm section work on the single Never Fight The Way You Feel. All the instrumentation used in Domino was created by Frollen Music Library, a library music project by the musicians behind Karate Boogaloo, Henry Jenkins, Hudson Whitlock and Darvid Thor, all long-term collaborators and friends of Ella’s. Ella has returned to making music under her own name in 2023 after years of releasing music with her electro-pop duo GL and cult indie band Dorsal Fins. One of Australia’s truly accomplished singers, Ella’s range ranges from art music to cinematic soul, jazz, and pop. In addition to her solo project and bands, she has been a featured artist for numerous acts, most notably deep funk pioneers The Bamboos and Mark Ronson.

A sonic snapshot of America's steel capital, developed in the prosperous cavern between the departure of the Jackson 5 to Motown and the collapse of U.S. Steel, Skyway Soul is a love letter to Gary, Indiana. Featuring The New Day, El Anthony, Nate Evans, Sky's The Limit, Wilton Crump, Lost Weekend,General Lee, Krash Band, Billy Foster & Audio, I.N.D., and Junei, this double album collects 21 lost songs from the southern-most tip of Lake Michigan. Housed in a deluxetip-on gatefold jacket, with a 16-page booklet crammed with photos, ephemera, and an indepth essay from Jake Austen, Skyway Soul connects the dots between The Spaniels,Michael Jackson, and Freddie Gibbs. Don'tforget to pay the toll.

* Record Store Day Black Friday 2023 (UK & Europe) exclusive release * Limited 180g Vinyl Edition (1000 copies) with obi strip * Rare 1972 Conceptual Funk-Soul-Jazz album * Comes with extensive sleeve notes * First Ever Vinyl Reissue Galt MacDermot (1928-2018) was an award-winning Canadian-American composer, pianist, writer of classical music and theatrical pieces. MacDermot also composed music for several film soundtracks (like the 1970 blaxploitation film ‘Cotton Comes To Harlem’) and released several exceptional jazz and funk albums on his own label Kilmarnock Records. He is best known for his work on the Grammy winning 1967 musical Hair (which also produced several number-one singles like “Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In”) and Two Gentlemen of Verona (1971) for which he won a Tony Award. In 2009 Galt MacDermot was inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame and in 2010 he received the Lifetime Achievement Award. In 1979, MacDermot formed the New Pulse Jazz Band, which performed and recorded his original music. Galt MacDermot's music is extremely popular with collectors of jazz and funk. Working with jazz and soul musicians such as Bernard Purdie and Idris Muhammad, MacDermot created pieces that used African rhythms (he made the study of African music his speciality). In recent decades, his work has become popular with hip-hop musicians including Busta Rhymes, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Gang Starr, Action Bronson, Public Enemy, MF Doom, Madlib, J Dilla, Obie Trice, Naughty By Nature, Run DMC and Digable Planets…the list is endless. The album we are proudly presenting you today (Ghetto Suite written in 1970 and released in 1972) is considered one of the most ground-breaking records ever issued on Galt MacDermot’s Killmarnock label and consists out of a selection of songs and poems by Harlem/Bronx school children, set to Galt’s music, and sung by vocalist Angela Ortega. Given That Galt’s handling the music, you can bet that there’s plenty of nicely executed funky touches-supported by rolling bass-work, snapping drums, and organ virtuosity. But the real charm of these groovy tunes comes from the lyrics, which have a simple and to the point way of dealing with issues of racism, poverty and other issues of the time. The story telling is surprisingly gripping even after all these years. The whole album creates an extremely personal direct sensitivity to the environment of Ghetto kids…telling us with defiantly honest intensity what it was like to be young and black, the drugs and the deaths, the topic of incarceration…or simply the fact of being battered by the frustration of Ghetto existence. Ghetto Suite is way more than an entertainment record, it has been used by teachers and counsellors to inspire and motivate the muted voices of the black inner cities…documenting both their anguish and their triumphs. Tidal Waves Music now proudly presents the First Ever vinyl reissue of this exceptional conceptual album (originally released in 1972 and a highly sought-after pricey collectable ever since) This unique record now comes as a deluxe 180g vinyl edition (strictly limited to 1000 copies) with obi strip and features the original artwork and extensive sleeve notes. Released exclusively for Record Store Day Black Friday 2023 (UK & Europe) and available in participating stores on November 24, 2023.

In the late 1980s, as techno and house made its way around Europe, mutating as it hopped from city to city, one young DJ from Curacao made a mistake that would inspire a brand new sound. While he was performing at Den Haag's Club Voltage, DJ Moortje accidentally dropped a dancehall track at 45RPM rather than 33, and let it play out. Thirsty for a hi-NRG sound, the crowd loved the squeaky vocals and rapid beat, and bubbling (or bubbling house) was born.For the next couple of decades, bubbling was a crucial part of Holland's Afro-diasporic club landscape. And as a new generation of wide-eyed young DJs and producers began to take the reins, it evolved accordingly. In the late-2000s, Den Haag-based teenage prodigy Guillermo Schuurman followed in the footsteps of his uncle DJ Chippie (one of the genre's co-founders) and cousins DJ Daycard, DJ Master-D, Stiko Jnr and DJ Justme, and began performing and writing beats. Using Fruityloops, he fused familiar bubbling rhythms with rap and R&B samples, trance synths and electro house wobbles, and his tracks quickly became a regular fixture on the Dutch circuit."Bubbling Inside" is a collection of Schuurman's most essential cuts from the era (2007-2009), with a couple of newer productions added for context. Crafted solely for the dance, most of these tracks were never properly released and have been painstakingly hunted down and collected by the Nyege Nyege Tapes together with Sascha Roth from Pantropical in Rotterdam and De Schuurman himself. Hearing them together highlights just how forward thinking the young producer was, steering a Dutch institution into the future.2008's 'First One' is a proto-Berghain belter, with booming bass-heavy kicks underpinning the kind of cheeky melodies that remain the calling card of the genre. 'Pier Je Bil!!' ratchets up the tempo, twisting bubbling's syncopated dancehall kicks into a rapid-fire club clatter and decorating them with steel-pan melodies. Elsewhere, 2019's 'Domina' shows how Schuurman's production style has developed as...

How does one express the bone-chilling loneliness of having lost the love of his or her mate, even as the relationship continues in the present tense? We would venture to say that “Element Of Love”, the inaugural 45 on S’plat Records, and the record debut of vocalist Gervis Myles, pretty well answers the question. The song and the performances elevate this record well beyond many efforts which seem to get lost in the mannerisms of soul, but ultimately miss the point. Gervis Myles tears into the song, which has the feeling of a scorching King Records hard soul lament from, say, 1960. He moans, shouts, unleashes falsetto outbursts, and hits ever more impossibly high non-falsetto notes as the song goes on. Bootsy Collins commented: “Y’all takin’ me back while moving forward. I love the way you funkin’ with me!” The band, which we call “Suite Crude Revue”, consists in this instance of Andrew Spadofora on saxophone, whose solo work on the record contributes considerably to its searing intensity, John Paul Simons (upright bass), Bryan Rogers (piano), Dave Schoepke (drums) and Daniel Zelonky on guitar. The B side, “I’m Thirsty,” is a rhythm and blues stomp about drinking away “woman problems.” Standout piano work from Rogers and a blistering solo by Spadafora, in addition to the raw vocal performance, make one want to …. drink! Written, arranged, and produced by Daniel Zelonky (aka Low Res).

In the late 1980s, as techno and house made its way around Europe, mutating as it hopped from city to city, one young DJ from Curacao made a mistake that would inspire a brand new sound. While he was performing at Den Haag's Club Voltage, DJ Moortje accidentally dropped a dancehall track at 45RPM rather than 33, and let it play out. Thirsty for a hi-NRG sound, the crowd loved the squeaky vocals and rapid beat, and bubbling (or bubbling house) was born. For the next couple of decades, bubbling was a crucial part of Holland's Afro-diasporic club landscape. And as a new generation of wide-eyed young DJs and producers began to take the reins, it evolved accordingly. In the late-2000s, Den Haag-based teenage prodigy Guillermo Schuurman followed in the footsteps of his uncle DJ Chippie (one of the genre's co-founders) and cousins DJ Daycard, DJ Master-D, Stiko Jnr and DJ Justme, and began performing and writing beats. Using Fruityloops, he fused familiar bubbling rhythms with rap and R&B samples, trance synths and electro house wobbles, and his tracks quickly became a regular fixture on the Dutch circuit."Bubbling Inside" is a collection of Schuurman's most essential cuts from the era (2007-2009), with a couple of newer productions added for context. Crafted solely for the dance, most of these tracks were never properly released and have been painstakingly hunted down and collected by the Nyege Nyege Tapes together with Sascha Roth from Pantropical in Rotterdam and De Schuurman himself. Hearing them together highlights just how forward thinking the young producer was, steering a Dutch institution into the future.2008's 'First One' is a proto-Berghain belter, with booming bass-heavy kicks underpinning the kind of cheeky melodies that remain the calling card of the genre. 'Pier Je Bil!!' ratchets up the tempo, twisting bubbling's syncopated dancehall kicks into a rapid-fire club clatter and decorating them with steel-pan melodies. Elsewhere, 2019's 'Domina' shows how Schuurman's production style has developed as h...

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, taking a page from Sly Stone’s 1973 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.

Worthy re-issue of Robert Cotter's second late 70's soul album! Comprising five songs, with four of them being quite lengthy and well-structured for the dance floor, was entirely recorded in the United States by top-notch American musicians. "Timeless", a fresh and lively expression of late 70s soul music, was recorded at the Sundragon Studio in New York. This studio was home to legendary bands such as Talking Heads and Ramones, as well as a few 'disco studio groups' like Andrea True Connection, Tony Valor Sound Orchestra, and Camouflage, who recorded songs that later became considerable hits. For this reason, it's believed that the positive outcome of the album can be partially attributed to Ned Liben, an eclectic New York musician and co-founder of the studio in the Flatiron district of Manhattan, served as an exhaustive interlocutor for any artistic and technical needs. He was also the arranger of "Rock Me With Your Love", the most significant song on the album. Ned's successful mission was to capture the maximum timbral fidelity of Robert Cotter's voice using appropriate recording techniques, assisted by Michael George Ewing, a talented engineer who had previously worked on similar projects with well-known artists like Carol Williams, Maryann Farra & Satin Soul, Touch and Tony Valor. In fact, the piece features original and melodious lines, coupled with an excellent steady rhythm, spanning approximately 8 minutes and 30 seconds - in short, "a delightful sound for every beat." This ensured that the performance of the young singer-songwriter from New Jersey was faithfully reproduced without neglecting the overall musical landscape. The other four songs, arranged by Ben Lazzaroni with the same musicians as the first piece, are no exception. Best Record also delivered on the promise to Robert's older brother, Karl Potter, a powerful percussionist transplanted to Rome, for whom the roman label produced "Sweet & Salty Cha-Cha-Cha" (12", 1986). Robert Cotter, an artist about whom almost nothing has been written, is poised to gain recognition once word spreads about his album, which has been entirely remastered by Dom Scuteri and features a more congenial tracklist. This album is destined to be truly 'timeless', ready to captivate audiences around the world. Even the new cover artwork, created by Nerina Fernandez, pays homage to an artist who, despite expressing himself with elegance and simplicity, radiates energy and exudes love. "Timeless" is an inevitable revelation for anyone who missed it at the time, and for the next 40-plus years, it will remain an absolute must-listen for Robert Cotter's many fans, leaving them all in awe. In addition to the reissue on the classic glossy black vinyl, a strictly limited edition on red vinyl will be released exclusively by Clone Distribution.

Peruvian Latin soul and rock pioneers Beto Villena and We All Together deliver a true-to-original rendition of the vocal-harmonies wonder that is 'Suavecito', originally brought to fame by Malo in 1972. A sophisticated sweet soul "rola" for those into the lowrider sounds. 'Suavecito' has been called "The Chicano National Anthem". It was originally recorded by Santana-related band Malo in 1972 and reached the Billboard's Top 20. This Peruvian version, released on Discos MAG that same year, features Beto Villena and We All Together (WAT's Carlos Guerrero on lead vocals). Villena was one of the most accomplished trumpet players in Peru with a successful career in the Latin soul and tropical scenes while We All Together were one of the epoch-making groups in the history of Peruvian rock. A perfect blend of talents delivering a true-to-original rendition of the vocal-harmonies wonder that is 'Suavecito'. A sophisticated sweet soul "rola" for those into the lowrider sounds. On the flip we find Black Sugar, Peruvian pioneers in mixing funk influences with rock and Latin rhythms. 'Viajecito' is one of the strongest tracks of their debut album, starting off with a psychedelic guitar-driven intro then throwing layers of infectious percussion and piano. The track gets a turn once the horns and vocal section start, resulting an amazing jazzy Latin soul dancer.

Considered one of the most innovative groups on the Colombian musical circuit in 1973, Columna de Fuego forged its sound by creatively and organically mixing elements of hard rock with rhythms rooted in the music of the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The band featured members of Los Young Beats, Los Speakers and Siglo Cero. Their only LP, recorded in Spain and released in Colombia only in 1974, was a turning point in the history of Colombian rock, an album full of funk, soul, cumbia and currulao that maintains a fast pace from start to finish. Unavailable for five decades, we are proud to now present the first-time reissue of this obscure gem with its original artwork, including an insert with notes and rare photos. Deatails: Columna de Fuego, the first Colombian rock band to tour outside South America, was the supporting act for Leonor González -La Negra Grande de Colombia- for months and featured members of Los Young Beats, Los Speakers and Siglo Cero. Their only LP, recorded in Spain and released in Colombia only in 1974, was a turning point in the history of Colombian rock, an album full of funk, soul, cumbia and currulao that maintains a fast pace from start to finish. After unsuccessful attempts to establish themselves in Europe, the group parted ways; some members returned to Colombia and others stayed in Europe as part of La Banda Salsa, a vibrant and little mentioned chapter in the history of Latin rock. Roberto Fiorilli, the stand-out drummer of Colombian rock, returned to his native Italy. Over the following five decades, the myth of Columna de Fuego, that wonderful Bogota rock band that dared to experiment with the music of the Colombian coastline, grew. The curiosity of musicians interested in the traditional music and folklore of the coasts since the late 80's, the consequent mixture of different musical genres (modern and roots) at the end of the 20th century and the almost impossible desire of collectors to find a copy of the album or one of the band's single...

Worthy re-issue of Robert Cotter's second late 70's soul album! Comprising five songs, with four of them being quite lengthy and well-structured for the dance floor, was entirely recorded in the United States by top-notch American musicians. "Timeless", a fresh and lively expression of late 70s soul music, was recorded at the Sundragon Studio in New York. This studio was home to legendary bands such as Talking Heads and Ramones, as well as a few 'disco studio groups' like Andrea True Connection, Tony Valor Sound Orchestra, and Camouflage, who recorded songs that later became considerable hits. For this reason, it's believed that the positive outcome of the album can be partially attributed to Ned Liben, an eclectic New York musician and co-founder of the studio in the Flatiron district of Manhattan, served as an exhaustive interlocutor for any artistic and technical needs. He was also the arranger of "Rock Me With Your Love", the most significant song on the album. Ned's successful mission was to capture the maximum timbral fidelity of Robert Cotter's voice using appropriate recording techniques, assisted by Michael George Ewing, a talented engineer who had previously worked on similar projects with well-known artists like Carol Williams, Maryann Farra & Satin Soul, Touch and Tony Valor. In fact, the piece features original and melodious lines, coupled with an excellent steady rhythm, spanning approximately 8 minutes and 30 seconds - in short, "a delightful sound for every beat." This ensured that the performance of the young singer-songwriter from New Jersey was faithfully reproduced without neglecting the overall musical landscape. The other four songs, arranged by Ben Lazzaroni with the same musicians as the first piece, are no exception. Best Record also delivered on the promise to Robert's older brother, Karl Potter, a powerful percussionist transplanted to Rome, for whom the roman label produced "Sweet & Salty Cha-Cha-Cha" (12", 1986). Robert Cotter, an artist about whom almost nothing has been written, is poised to gain recognition once word spreads about his album, which has been entirely remastered by Dom Scuteri and features a more congenial tracklist. This album is destined to be truly 'timeless', ready to captivate audiences around the world. Even the new cover artwork, created by Nerina Fernandez, pays homage to an artist who, despite expressing himself with elegance and simplicity, radiates energy and exudes love. "Timeless" is an inevitable revelation for anyone who missed it at the time, and for the next 40-plus years, it will remain an absolute must-listen for Robert Cotter's many fans, leaving them all in awe. In addition to the reissue on the classic glossy black vinyl, a strictly limited edition on red vinyl will be released exclusively by Clone Distribution.

We at Now-Again unearthed so much information about the bands that recorded the definitive disco and modern soul contained in our Soul Cal anthology that we decided we had no choice but to release this album at the same time. With that, Loving On The Flip Side was concieved. Loving On The Flip Side offers the enthused a chance to listen to and reflect on another great burst of black American creativity: the creation of the sublime genre we like to call "sweet funk." It seems laughable to skip past Thomas East’s "Slipping Around" 7' for the cheesy funk of "Just A Trip," or to listen obsessively to Lou Ragland’s instrumental funk on the Hot Chocolate LP and ignore his indolent-yet-stirring "We Had True Love." Yet we did just that, until we first heard the Darling Dears and Funky Heavy’s beautiful two-sider. This was the record that set Loving On The Flip Side in motion, as the Darling Dears and Funky Heavy’s two songs precipitated the sweet funk genre: the dichotomy of Funky Heavy’s skull snapping rhythm section and the teenage Dears’ angelic harmonies didn’t sound like anything we’d heard before. That discovery set off a decade long search for the band and culminated in their discovery, the documenting of their stories, the emergence of their master tapes and the inclusion of their songs on Loving On The Flip Side. The excitement we felt while listening to the Darling Dears and Funky Heavy’s masterworks forced us back into the field, in search of other sweet funk swooners and beat-heavy ballads to round out this anthology. The opportunity to present anew such wondrous soul music made the exhaustive process that produced Loving On The Flip Side worthwhile, and allowed us to collect one-offs that escaped prior investigations into the deep funk and sweet soul genres.

Limited edition on clear red vinyl!

As they set to work on their highly awaited sophomore album, Black Pumas broadened their palette to include a dazzling expanse of musical forms: heavenly hybrids of soul and symphonic pop, mind-bending excursions into jazz-funk and psychedelia, starry-eyed love songs that feel dropped from the cosmos. The debut was nominated for 7 Grammys and reached one million album equivalents. Chronicles Of A Diamond arrives as the fullest expression yet of their frenetic creativity and limitless vision.

Limited Edition - comes on clear vinyl including an art print.

As they set to work on their highly awaited sophomore album, Black Pumas broadened their palette to include a dazzling expanse of musical forms: heavenly hybrids of soul and symphonic pop, mind-bending excursions into jazz-funk and psychedelia, starry-eyed love songs that feel dropped from the cosmos. The debut was nominated for 7 Grammys and reached one million album equivalents. Chronicles Of A Diamond arrives as the fullest expression yet of their frenetic creativity and limitless vision.

Regular edition without the print.

As they set to work on their highly awaited sophomore album, Black Pumas broadened their palette to include a dazzling expanse of musical forms: heavenly hybrids of soul and symphonic pop, mind-bending excursions into jazz-funk and psychedelia, starry-eyed love songs that feel dropped from the cosmos. The debut was nominated for 7 Grammys and reached one million album equivalents. Chronicles Of A Diamond arrives as the fullest expression yet of their frenetic creativity and limitless vision.

Raised in the multicultural and mind-broadening London borough of Enfield, Loraine James grew up hearing everything from steel pan music to Metallica, from jazz and electronica to drill and grime, and the results of this exposure can be heard on 'For You And I'.In part the album explores the complexities of being in a queer relationship in London - "I'm in love and wanted to share that in some way _ to make songs that reflect layers of my relationship." - and as a whole 'For You and I' is rhythmically free flowing and sprawling, with melodies that evolve into rippling keys, feeling like a live jam session with a jazz mentality, contrasting the delicate and abrasive.Opener 'Glitch Bitch' is a warm ear-worm, brandishing swirling textures with undulating keys and compressed percussion, with an introspective theme revisited soon after on third track 'So Scared', whose glitched percussion and syncopated dub bassline build to a frantic meltdown melody. On 'London Ting // Dark As Fuck', inspired by Dizzee Rascals's 'Boy In Da Corner', James explores the darker side of her production with her frequent collaborator Le3 BLACK laying verses over the skeletal track. 'Hand Drops' is an instrumental, about public displays of affection in a queer relationship. 'Sensual' reflects on intimacy with vocals by UK singer Theo, who's lyrics capture love and gentleness over a soft, minimal production of ethereal keys and scattered glitches. The albums' title track is also the most colourful, it's ecstatic and effusive chaos driven by fervent synths expressing elation and the joyful side of her relationship, while 'My Future' is a more reflective moment, where warping synths wash in and out with compressed kicks, as the artist considers the dangers that may come with her relationship : "I wanna tie the knot / But the rope is dangerous".'For You And I' is a deeply intimate and personal offering, expressing happiness, anxiety, joy, sensuality and fear through a vivid sound palette and an experimental sense of rhythm.

Excavated from the halls of funk! A newly discovered live album from the late great Junie Morrison! 1975 was a transitional year for \former Ohio Players and future P-Funk keyboardist Junie Morrison. He had just left the former band after working on a trio of releases that would catapult the funk band to fame, and his burgeoning solo career was just beginning to take off. Recorded at Dooley’s in Lansing, Michigan, this live album was likely recorded just after his fantastic second solo album Freeze. This performance focuses on songs from Freeze, such as the incredibly groovy opening track “Junie II”. The rhythm section are perfectly at home in the pocket, with Junie’s keyboards and charismatic vocals floating effortlessly over horn rhythms. This is followed up by a medley of the Ohio Players’ best songs, “Pain; Cookies Will Get You; Please; Ecstasy” played at a breakneck tempo. Junie’s synthesizer lines are something of a forerunner to the cosmic funk he would play with Parliament, but hearing the Players’ iconic songs as a medley is enough to justify getting this record! Of course, don’t miss the covers of Aretha Franklin’s “Oh Me Oh My (I’m A Fool For You Baby)”, Diana Ross’s “Surrender”, and The Temptations’ “Shakey Ground”! This album, put on vinyl for the first time ever is a must-have for all fans of funk!

South London Soul Band Trambeat, influenced by the floor shaking sound of 1960's Motor City. With brand new single, "Don't Hold Back"
Trambeat were formed in 2012 by guitarist Graham Potter and drummer Des" Jammy" James. Graham and Des had played together in several bands previously and already had a good musical understanding. Trambeat's manifesto; to write original songs influenced by a love of Northern Soul, Motown, Rocksteady and RnB. But also to look forward and include elements of more contemporary genres. Bass player Nipper Smith, Saxophonists Robin Ogleby and Nadia Barbosa, and organist Emer O'Hanlon were recruited to form the core band and Trambeat set about recording and gigging with various vocalists until, in 2016, Aimee Grinter became Trambeat's permanent lead singer.
Written by Graham Potter and Des James, "Don't Hold Back" is in some ways a comeback single for Trambeat. The pandemic years took their toll on many bands and Trambeat in particular, with the loss of founding member Robin Ogleby being a very hard blow. Following a tribute single in 2021 to raise money for Robin's charities, and a couple of festival gigs in the summer of 2022, theyndidn't have much appetite for writing new material, and were unsure whether to continue as a band without Robin. It was during a jam between Graham and Des in late 2022 that the bones of "Don't Hold Back" came together. The drums and rhythm guitar clicked into an infectious dance groove with echoes of vintage Motown. The band members came together in the studio with renewed enthusiasm and laid down the track in just a day. The band, who remained close,even during this hiatus, realised how great it was to be back in the studio together again. Graham's lyrics, as well as the euphoric feel of the track, reflected this new optimism within the band. "Don't Hold Back" is a celebration of life, of deep friendships and most of all, of love!
Plays on Gary Crowley's show on BBC London.
Regularly played by Button Down Radio, Heavy Soul (Cambridge), The Influential Factor show on Solid Front Radio (album of the week for Ttn), Mod Radio UK (various shows), The Edward B'stard Radio Show, several stations in Germany and Edge Radio and couple of others in Australia

Originally released on Blue Candle Records in 1977, Steppin' Out by the 13th Floor is a true treasure that deserves a cherished place in the collection of every soul and funk connoisseur. This long-awaited reissue brings back the original magic, preserving the essence and impact it had on the music scene.

Its profound influence on bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers is undeniable, solidifying its status as an essential gem in the annals of musical history. Now, with this reissue, you have the opportunity to experience the same captivating rhythms and infectious melodies that captivated audiences decades ago.

Are you ready to awaken your boogie spirit and infuse your living room with the long-lost spark of the mid-seventies? Brace yourself for an immersive experience as you surrender to the timeless grooves and soulful vibes that will transport you to a bygone era of musical
enchantment. Allow the music to ignite your soul, reigniting the vibrant energy of the past and instilling in you an irresistible urge to groove like never before.

Originally released on Blue Candle Records in 1977, Steppin' Out by the 13th Floor is a true treasure that deserves a cherished place in the collection of every soul and funk connoisseur. This long-awaited reissue brings back the original magic, preserving the essence and impact it had on the music scene.

Its profound influence on bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers is undeniable, solidifying its status as an essential gem in the annals of musical history. Now, with this reissue, you have the opportunity to experience the same captivating rhythms and infectious melodies that captivated audiences decades ago.

Are you ready to awaken your boogie spirit and infuse your living room with the long-lost spark of the mid-seventies? Brace yourself for an immersive experience as you surrender to the timeless grooves and soulful vibes that will transport you to a bygone era of musical
enchantment. Allow the music to ignite your soul, reigniting the vibrant energy of the past and instilling in you an irresistible urge to groove like never before.

The Half-Truths party hard on this deep funk banger. Employing group vocals, blasting horns, a teenage sounding rhythm section and squeaking synths, the Half-Truths keep the message simple on "We Party" and "Let's Party" Light one up, pour up a drink and get off your feet with Nashville's Premier Deep Funk Band.

Miles Davis: "I could definitely hear right away that this was going to be one of the baddest motherfuckers who had ever played a set of drums.”

The Tony Williams Lifetime's Emergency! is a furious, stunning, seminal album. In 1969, it's explosive sound divided critics in both jazz and rock but is now rightly regarded as groundbreaking. A musical statement so bold and irreverent that it was revolutionary, it's one of the most important records you will ever hear. With Emergency!, provocative percussionist Tony Williams unified the most vital sounds of the era and galvanised the creation of jazz fusion. A sprawling double LP that shattered the boundaries between jazz and rock, it forged fresh frontiers by unleashing dense, courageous and fantastically mysterious music.

The group was founded by Tony Williams, a member of Miles Davis’ radical 1960s quintet, out of his desire to fuse the influences of modern jazz and rock music. To effectively meld the scorching bop of Coltrane with the raging rock of Hendrix, in the process crafting, as Mojo put it, "jazz-rock's equivalent of Are You Experienced?". The album's urgent title was profoundly significant for Williams: “It was an emergency for me to leave Miles and put that band together (...) and I wanted to play an emerging music that was my own." The band he formed was one hell of a power trio, comprising nothing but raw virtuosity: Williams's colossal drumming, John McLaughlin's pioneering, aggressive guitar playing and Larry Young's freeform organ work.

The album's sound is incredibly fierce and inordinately intense. Indeed, the group were famed for playing “louder than rock’n’roll”, as Herbie Hancock said of going to hear them live in 1969: "This is something new...It was exciting and very arresting. It snatched you. It yanked you out of your seat.” Ian Carr, of Nucleus, was equally impressed: "The only other comparable band that existed ...They were incredibly loud, but we liked what they were doing. Fundamentally they had a different approach from ours, with some very highly arranged things that featured Larry Young's organ blending with the guitar, as well as intricate passages where Tony doubled the melody on the drums."

Like all the very best records, Emergency! takes multiple listens for your brain and body to decipher everything going on, to truly process and appreciate the details that our senses are throwing at us. It's a mesmerising, rough sound yet the intuitive interplay of all 3 musicians is super-tight. The tunes are strung out and jamming but retain a tight rhythmic focus.

The incendiary title track immediately presents jazz-rock’s chaotic birth. After Williams's ominous snare-roll signals the brewing storm, the snarling band blasts its way through the gate in truly breathtaking fashion, fuzzed-up wahed-out guitar riffs vying for prominence with gnarled, insistent organ. Thrillingly, Williams manages to both acrobatically crash over every element of his drum kit while keeping the whole groove undeniably funky. "Beyond Games" is a gloriously volatile freeform, featuring Williams' bugged out vocals, whilst the 12-minute "Where" is another deep, wild jam. It's disorientating and humid with weird rhythms, abrupt vibe shifts and semi-classical lines running between guitar and organ. It's like nothing else you've ever heard, absolutely vital.

With the buoyant “Vashkar”, we begin to experience jazz-rock's many angles; imaginative melodics, taut dynamics and as torrent of searing heat. Perhaps the most economical track on Emergency!, it's the most instant. In a recent retrospective review in Pitchfork, Emergency! received a monumental 9.0 ranking. The writer Hank Shteamer correctly gushed: "Driven by a tumbling Williams pulse, the trio dances through the complex stop-start theme, ending each iteration with a dramatic full-band rest. Then, in the middle of McLaughlin’s scrambling solo, Williams starts playing an embryonic version of an extreme-metal blastbeat, alternating snare and bass in rapid succession while rising precipitously in volume, as Young joins in with shuddering note clusters. During Young’s solo, the organist seems to incite Williams to repeat the move with his increasingly frenzied lines, and soon all three musicians are hurtling toward a supernova climax." WOW!

The laconic "Via the Spectrum Road", a brilliant pop-psych tune, was sampled by Showbiz & AG on their classic debut LP. It oscillates between a tranquil funk groove and strutting improv interludes. The pyrotechnic jam "Spectrum" wakes things up again with pure, molten jazz lava and crazy soloing from all involved. A breathtaking, kaleidoscopic 13-minute cycle through ferocious noise, "Sangria For Three" is a sublimely frenetic detonation of distilled (acid) jazz rock. To quote Shteamer again, "Don’t let the track’s breezy title fool you: As much as, say, “Sister Ray” the year before or “Fun House” the year after, this is punk before punk." Closer "Something Spiritual" finishes this jaw-dropping set with a driving, unrelenting heavy guitar and organ freakout, backed high in the mix by Williams's untamed funk before unsettled dissonance rides us out.

Listeners will be struck by the timelessness of Emergency!; dank, trance-inducing voodoo jazz that's intellectually challenging at the same time as viscerally thrilling. The blurred cover photo, whereby the convulsing vibrations of this sonic apocalypse ensure it looks exactly as the record sounds - out of focus - has been delicately restored at Be With HQ. Mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis and cut by Cicely Ralston for Alchemy at AIR Studios, the magnificent grit and spontaneity remains dizzyingly intact. If you're a jazz fusion fan and don't already have this, consider ownership of this record as an Emergency!

Mysteries Of The World is the stunning final studio album from legendary Philly supergroup MFSB. Expertly co-written and produced with the mighty Dexter Wansel, it features the untouchable, sparkling masterpiece "Mysteries Of The World". The whole album is truly exquisite; a stylish, classy collection of pure Philly soul and orchestral jazz-funk.

MFSB, an acronym for Mother, Father, Sister, Brother, was formed by producers Gamble & Huff of Philadelphia International Records. The band's roots can be traced back to the house band at the legendary Sigma Sound Studios, where they played on numerous hit records by artists like The O'Jays, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes and The Stylistics. Mysteries Of The World comprises slick jazz-funk grooves, mostly penned by Wansel, who produced a fair chunk of the album in a similar style to his space-funk records. MFSB's smooth sound is retained but it receives a fresh, elegant and jazzy upgrade. While this album is as mellow as the rest of the latter-period MFSB recordings, it never forgets the group's soul music underpinnings.

Swaggering, well-timed horn blasts, sweeping strings and a percolating, hard thumping slap-bassline combine to devastating effect on amazing opener "Manhattan Skyline". It's a sexy mid-tempo instrumental which sets us up nicely for what follows. Essays could be written analysing the perfection of title track. Arguably the finest jazz-funk instrumental ever made, it's absolutely magnificent. Featuring musicianship of the highest calibre, the band play with their trademark tight discipline, cooking up a syncopating rhythm with an array of exploratory keyboard riffs wrapped around a punchy bassline sent from heaven. It sounds like house music, it's that ahead of its time. The string intro is sumptuous, hypnotic and divine and that's all before the beat hits. The track fuses classical, jazz and funk into a musical journey that you never want to end. Absolutely flawless, it's a dramatic disco dancefloor killer.

Says Dexter Wansel himself: "You know, of all the songs I wrote/produced/arranged for MFSB, this is for me the most different. I think it's an experiment in rhythmic, soft sonic synth and live string and harp combinations. I composed it in an effort to blend a funky groove, along with synthesis, and orchestral sounds. There are 3 synthesizers: Oberheim 4 voice, Polymoog, and of course Arp 2600v. And, as I remember, I recorded the track with the rhythm section, string, harp and flute players first. Then I added synthesis."

The profound elegance remains in abundance on the slinky, harp-laced "Tell Me Why"; Carla Benson's beautiful voice truly shines on this sophisticated cut. The side closes out in dramatic style with the string-drenched "Metamorphosis". It's a staccato, Blaxploitation groove workout featuring wah-wah guitar, creeping basslines, rich horn solos and soulful vocals drifting in and out of the mix. The bouncy, irrepressible "Fortune Teller" opens the B side in the bass-heavy orchestral funk style before the beautiful "Old San Juan" glides in, a Balearic-adjacent track with intricate arrangements, building its mellow soul groove around an atypical flamenco guitar hook. Melancholy, guitar-led instrumental "Thank You Miss Scott" is a real highlight, with gorgeous flute, string and percussive elements whilst closer "In the Shadow" works an otherworldly synth line into its bossa nova groove.

An essential record for fans of Philly soul and groovy jazz-funk, Mysteries Of The World was mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis and cut by Cicely Ralston for Alchemy at AIR Studios. The stunning artwork, the work of renowned illustrator Robert Giusti, was restored at Be With HQ to round out this beautiful reissue.