Review: The third edition in Ten Lovers' Coin series hears Marcello Cassanelli, Caruso and Helen McCormack fuse churnout disco, chicken pickin' guitar and Rhodes solos, in an extravaganza of fresh, sartorial dance music. Never pressing too hard, Cassenelli's 'Starlight' and 'Tropical Breeze' go easy on the master channel, with unhurried pan flutes, roiling strings and twizzling G-synths stuck loosely to a soft but firm electro-tropical backbeat. 'Dream Horizon' is a brilliant outerlude on which to close the side. On the flip, Caruso & Helen McCormack allude equally to the Manchester Street Soul scene of the late 80s with 'Have & Hold', whose razor-edge r&b vocals and low-slung progression lend the record a surprise twist. Their 'Love You More', meanwhile is lushness personified, before Caruso's 'Central' chugs magnficently towards the run out groove with oozing synths and glitterball glamour.
Review: Charlie Charlie's 'Save Us' is a track brimming with raw emotion, and Mondag's remix feels like a perfect counterpart, bringing a subtle touch of melancholy with its soft saxophone solo. The track maintains its weight, but Mondag's approach gives it a dream-like quality, coaxing out the depths of its aching beauty. Bella Boo's edit brings a noticeable shift, tightening the rhythms and infusing the track with a sharper energy, but it never loses the soul of the original. Gerd Janson, meanwhile, offers an ambient version that feels like an entirely different experience - less immediate, but no less absorbing. On the other side, Hypernatural's remixes expand on the dreamlike, almost otherworldly feeling of the originals. Knightlife's take on 'Spirit Walk' stretches the song's already fluid nature, making it feel weightless, while Gerd Janson's remix of 'Stormfront' adds a darker, more reflective mood.
The Mechanical Man - "Uncle Swing" (feat Bob Vito) (4:31)
DJ Rocca - "The Box Above" (6:03)
Lex & Locke - "Soul Escape" (6:56)
Review: Musica Solida sampler 1 marks a thrilling celebration of 40 years of Flexi, the venerable record emporium that has stood the test of time in the ever-evolving music industry landscape. As the label weathered storms and celebrated triumphs, it has remained a beacon for vinyl enthusiasts, and this compilation embodies its enduring spirit. Curated by Flexi Cuts, Musica Solida promises a series of carefully selected singles spread across multiple 12-inch samplers, showcasing the talents of cherished Flexi-affiliated artists and producers. With a vision to cultivate a movement of sublime tunes, the compilation aims to uphold the commitment to quality that Flexi has exemplified within the Italian music scene and beyond. Musica Solida sampler one sets the stage with an eclectic lineup of artists, each bringing their unique flair to the table. DJ Rocca stands as a stalwart of the clubbing scene, while Club Soda delivers live electronic ensembles brimming with house-flavored jams. Lex & Locke bring a touch of Greek sophistication to the mix, showcasing their groovy sound destined for future acclaim. Hiroyuki Kato emerges as a Japan-based multi-instrumentalist with a punchy debut track, and The Mechanical Man (feat. Bob Vito) adds a raw, gritty energy to the compilation. For those that are adventurous in finding unique music, you will want to check out this great release.
Jeff Silna - "It's Always Something With You" (4:14)
Review: Favorite Recordings unearth two rare gems from the AOR Global Sounds series on this 7" single. Jonathon Hansen's track, recorded in 1978, captures a soulful AOR sound with heartfelt lyrics inspired by the breakup of his band. Backed by a close-knit group of musicians, the recording feels both intimate and timeless. On the flip, Jeff Silna's contribution channels the energy of Miami's TK Studios, blending funk-inspired grooves with smooth, melodic arrangements. Both tracks are a testament to the creativity of their era, lovingly reissued for collectors and fans of vintage soul.
Review: If you like classic r&b and Afrobeat then get your lugs around this where both sounds meet in a perfect fusion on this German-Nigerian collaboration. Featuring modern, warm drums and potent basslines, this release kicks off the Sedsoulciety Recordings Gold Line series aimed at showcasing contemporary styles. 'Tell Me What You Want' is presented here in two versions: the Afro Vibe Mix on the A-side and the Groove Mix on the flip. Both tracks bring plenty of heart and also dance floor heft so get things underway in great style.
Tell Me What You Want (Rob Hardt Afro Vibe mix) (4:22)
Tell Me What You Want (Rob Hardt Groove mix) (4:51)
Review: Classic R'n'B and Afro Beat have found a harmonious blend in this standout reissue from Sedsoulciety Recordings. This release is not just a fresh take but also a revival of a collaboration that brings together the best of both worlds. "Tell Me What You Want" is back on the scene, and it's showcasing why this fusion was so groundbreaking. The A-side features the Afro Vibe Mix, where warm, pounding beats meet the rhythmic pulse of AfroBeat, all wrapped in the smooth elegance of modern r&b. On the flip side, the Groove Mix takes a more driving approach, maintaining the track's lush vocals while ramping up the energy for a dance-ready vibe. This reissue kicks off Sedsoulciety's gold line, a new series set to highlight the freshest takes on genres including Rap, HipHop, Neo-Soul, and Neo-Funk. Each release will delve into powerful beats and sophisticated vocal performances, reflecting the label's commitment to contemporary, genre-blending music. "Tell Me What You Want" serves as a prime example of how classic sounds can be revitalized to resonate with today's audience. This exclusive vinyl release is a testament to the enduring appeal of both R'n'B and Afro Beat, and it's sure to be a coveted addition to any collection.
Review: Brighton-based producer Pierson brings a refreshing diversity to his deep house and disco house offerings, blending multiple influences with an ease that keeps his tracks exciting and unpredictable. 'Forget It Mate' starts off with a slow groove that feels like a nostalgic nod to vintage deep house, but it's much moreithis track is a skillful blend of old-school vibes and modern energy. It seamlessly moves between different styles, creating a dynamic and infectious vibe. 'Mr Miami' follows with a lively piano-driven melody, uplifting the listener with its ambient house feel, where lush chords and smooth transitions create a feel-good atmosphere. On Side-2, 'Spank Dat' is a funky standout. With its rich groove and rare disco aura, it's a killer track for any dancefloor, offering a unique fusion of genres. Finally, 'Just No!' dives into a tribal, electro-driven territory. Its organic yet robotic funk takes on an 80s electro feel, offering a quirky, dynamic sound that pushes boundaries. This EP delivers something for everyone, effortlessly blending styles while staying rooted in deep, groove-driven house. A true example of the producer's range and creativity.
Review: Originally part of a 1975 charity compilation LP raising money for environmental charities in California - which later became a collectors artifact changing hands for silly money (which didn't fit well with the Deja Vu Kid team) - so this Balearic nugget, the crown jewel of the album, was released on 7". More in keeping with its original spirit, not to mention its exquisite sound, there's no better way to share it again than on it's own 45 release at a fair price. 'Metropolis' and its B-side, 'Before I'm Gone', are pristine, hi-fi wilderness folk ditties, both of which evince an incredible mood of streamside Americana.
Review: Healing Force Project is prolific Italian artist Antonio Marini. Over the last decade he has dropped plenty of heat on the likes of Firecracker, Berceuse Heroique, 2 Headed Deer, Random Numbers and more. Drifted Entities Vol 1 is his latest offering and is an experimental take on dub, cosmic funk, jazz and drum & bass with the HFP signature unifying it all. 'Tiny Germs' opens up on dark, sparse drums that are kinda haunting then 'Upbeat Damage' is a deconctructed jungle jazz cut with squealing synths that bring the horror. The flip side continues in that eerie manner with fresh musicality and loose arrangements drawing you in.
Review: Ino Hidefumi is an electric pianist, jazzist, experimental electronicist, and music venue owner based in Japan. The sole purveyor of music on his own, strikingly singular, idiosyncratic Innocent Record label, Hidefumi's output remains starkly un-fuck-withable, betraying the highest concern with both songrcraft and packaging design. Sonically, everything he's made over the years sounds as tight as an oxidised tap in a vacuum seal, and 2018's 'Can't Sleep' is no exception to this. Emblematic of his preference of short EPs over albums, Hidefumi's tendency to pour over his music is evident here: 'Can't Sleep' portrays him slumped over the piano, having involuntarily dozed off, presumably after spending hours composing this curt but crucial sonic corpus. Embossed Rhodes novae and gullet-sung vocals abound on the title track, their effortless feel working to portray the hilarity of such eugeroic lapses, while 'Good Night' moves ever so slightly more emphatic, beelining to wish the listener goodnight, despite the subverted resolution to fall asleep after all.
Review: Eric Hilton's most recent full length album Sound Vagabond, has been making some waves in the downtempo and chill out circles. Known for his smooth urban beats, catchy grooves and unique melodies as part of Thievery Corporation, he's a celebrated name in the downtempo scene, as well as being supportive of the vinyl DJ scene too. 'Midnight Milan' was taken from the album and sees a beautiful melody riding along perfectly to the easy-going rhythm. Simple but oh, so perfect - and that's before we mention the fact it's pressed on mint green colored vinyl.
Review: Eric Hilton of Thievery Corporation has long been a ardent fan of the DJ community and his most recent physical output strategy is to take key tracks from his most recent album and place them on DJ friendly 7" singles, each released with beautiful artwork and matching coloured vinyl, with an unreleased track to compliment on the B-side. 'Poppy Fields' is a funky groove that features a unique melody and urban eastern vibe to it. The flip side, 'French Bird' continues the smooth downtempo happenings. With Eric Hilton, you can always expect a great groove and a wonderful approach to chill out music - this is no exception.
Review: The MC was one of a kind. His legend lives on through his work which here gets served up on new label Doom in instrumental form. 'Saffron' (MF instrumental) is a silky late-night sound with warm melancholic chords and subtle boom-bap beats. On the flip, things get more jazzy with the expressive trumpets and more raw broken beat patterns of 'Arrow Root' (MF instrumental). It's a timeless and sophisticated sound that will woo any listener into a calming mood and comes on a limited 7".
Review: Japanese nu-jazz doesn't get any more smouldering than this deep cut from Yusuke Hirado featuring Lil Summer on vocal duties. 'Fly Away' is a mellow melter thanks in no small part to the moody strings lingering behind Hirado's fluid funk production. It's a downtempo vibe which calls to mind the UK street soul sound, contrasted by B-side joint 'Dear Limmertz' which has a more jazz funk oriented flavour. Both joints won't let you down when you want to set the mood as smooth as possible - with a seasoned pro like Hirado at the controls, what else would you expect?
Review: Genesis present a 7" release of Japanese jazz singer Yusuke Hirado's cover of 'He Loves You'. The original song was written and recorded by Hawaiian jazz-fusion band Seawind, and now it's been given a silky smooth update by Hirado assisted by Yu-ri Tanaka. The track is buffeted along by the sweetest Rhodes chords and a funky, Moog-esque lead, but there's also a distinct slant from the steady tick of the drum machine patterns which form the rhythmic backbone of this version. Backed up with 'Collision In Blue', this is a perfect single for anyone who appreciates that clean, crisp approach to a jazz classic.
Review: Detroit native Jason Hogans will not be a familiar name to many, despite the fact he has been putting out music - albeit sporadically - for 20 odd years. A release on Theo Parrish's hero-worshipped Sound Signature will always put you in the spotlight, though, especially when it's as good as this. The artist explores deep Motor City house, percussive broken beats and that shamanistic, off-grid sound that label head Theo Parrish is such a master of. Standouts include the airy, spacious beat work of 'Favorite Coffee Mug' and steamy post-jungle concoction that is 'For My Solids.'
Review: Rick Holmes' Remember to Remember is a gem of a reissue from 1981, faithfully presented with both original tracks on each side. this 12" vinyl from gold mink records is gleaming with top soul-jazz and funk music with a crisp production that stands out. Sadly, Rick Holmes recently passed away which makes this reissue extra special. The title track 'Remember to Remember' and the B-side 'Tothe Unknowledgeable One' showcase infectious grooves and soulful rhythms that mark this record as a true classic. Hearing it for the first time on jfm/horizon radio in the early 80s was a revelationiintroducing many to rare groove soul. Records like this weren't typical at parties, where uptempo tracks ruled, making its presence all the more striking. It played a crucial role in the rare groove scene, which was just on the brink of exploding and changing how underground soul was appreciated. for collectors and enthusiasts, this reissue is a nostalgic and essential piece of music history.
Review: Holo makes a welcome return to Shall Not Fade, delivering four tracks that strike a perfect balance between deep house nostalgia and contemporary groove. His signature soundilush synth work, crisp percussion, and a delicate emotional pulliis on full display, weaving a rich, transportive atmosphere throughout. 'Pink Wax' sets the scene with warm, enveloping pads and a rolling low-end, effortlessly drawing us in. 'Flipper' leans into more playful territory, its shimmering melodies and tight drum programming keeping the energy light yet propulsive. Across the record, Holo's ability to craft emotive, immersive dance music remains undeniable, blending hazy textures with infectious rhythms in a way that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.
Meditation (feat Ramona Reid & Ann Sensing) (3:54)
Review: The upcoming second solo studio album by US singer-songwriter and guitarist Brittany Howard (of Alabama Shakes fame), What Now follows up Jaime and its Reimagined edition, striking out with a fierce, "truest and bluest", nigh "brutal" lyricism, in which Howard addresses the titular question - "what now?" - and how today's society might respond. Written, of course, during the height of the pandemic, when such doubts were excised and up in the air (and more so than usual), the album's sonic aesthetic spans full-bodied funk, psychedelic chord progressions, and a powerful bombast. The overall answer sounds to be: move through it; surrender to "the now", gracefully.
Lost Girl (Marc Hype & Jim Dunloop Late Night rework) (3:32)
Special Technique Of Love (Jim Dunloop Shaolin Soul edit) (3:08)
Review: The mighty Dusty Donuts return to Queensbridge where they encounter a 'Lost Girl' featured on a legendary mixtape by one of QB's finest. This bouncy, choppy Marc Hype & Jim Dunloop Late Night Remix is sure to ignite any gathering. On the flipside, the vibes shift from Queensbridge to Staten Island and bring a special sound to work the crowd - this heavy soul classic arrives in true Shaolin style with choppy, dark soul chords and classic hip-hop beats. It's a track that commands attention with the drums but also locks in head and heart.
Incognito - "Freedom To Love" (Atjazz Astro remix) (5:25)
MRMILKDEE & Jill Rock Jones - "2 Positions" (Sean McCabe Cosmos dub) (5:22)
Harold Matthews Jr & Sean McCabe - "Metronome" (Turbojazz remix) (6:16)
KV5 & Kaidi Tatham - "Shook Up" (5:03)
Review: Reel People Music breaks new ground, in more ways than one, with the launch of fresh compilation series Broken, Deep & Dope. A spin-off from acclaimed compilation brand Soulful, Deep & Dope - introduced back in 2015 - this new series sees the much-loved independent imprint pushing further at the boundaries of soulful music. All with that customary Reel People feeling. Broken, Deep & Dope 2024, the series' first instalment, unleashes 20 superlative examples of the soulful 'bruk' (broken beat), nu beat and nu jazz sound that has so innovatively informed contemporary dancefloors around the world since its inception back in late '90s West London.
Review: Some expansive, cinematic, orchestral spiritual jazz for you here, from the trio of talents that Fumio Itabashi, Kuniyiki and Henrik Schwarz. While the latter two are generally better-known for their deep and sometimes tech-tinged house and ambient productions, the original mix of 'Watarese' (featured here on side B) is a dense, immersive jazz soundscape laden with evocative Japanese vocals, improvised piano, moody orchestration and definite nods towards vintage free-jazz. Spiritual Life supremo Joaquin 'Joe' Clausell provides the remix and, somewhat predictably, steals the show. His take is gently rhythmic, sun-splashed spiritual jazz full of hand percussion, fluid piano motifs and rubbery double bass.
Noriko Kose & Haruka Nakamura - "I Miss You" (3:31)
Joachim Kuhn - "Housewife's Song" (4:35)
Review: Insense Music Works finished off 2024 on a high by serving up this brilliant pair of wonky jazz sounds. Noriko Kose & Haruka Nakamura's 'I Miss You' pairs pensive piano playing with alluring vocal sounds and raw beats into something heady and beguiling that almost seems to shift space and time with its smeared designs. Joachim Kuhn's 'Housewife's Song' on the flip is a busier sound with mad jazz keys, cascading piano chords and a vibrant sense of energy that flourishes ever brighter as the track unfolds.
Review: Primetime smooth soul on the long-awaited 7" release of the fourth collaborative work between Lagheads and HIMI, 'Dance'. With impeccable production scooping out a thick copse of luscious basses, watery chorused electrics and glittering twinkles, the track is difficult to compare to any other; HIMI's vocals are fay as they are nimble, sounding sultrily pucklike over the sheer sonic city-soul fabric that is the instrumental piece. The B-side hears a remix by Hikaru Arata of WONK!A fame and fleshes out the latent weight of the track for a jazzier hip-hop version.
Review: The split 12" from East London's Portico Quartet and Polish pianist Hania Rani exemplifies how simple ideas can yield remarkable results. Each artist reworked the other's track, with impressive outcomes. Portico Quartet transforms Rani's 'Nest' into a dreamy, ethereal jazz piece, featuring undulating analogue synths, immersive chords, and floaty vocal samples carried by languid jazz drumming. Rani's take on Portico Quartet's 'With, Beside, Against' is even more striking. Her version, minimalistic and sparse, introduces twinkling piano motifs and her evocative vocals, creating a slowly unfolding, cinematic jazz experience. Both interpretations are nothing short of stunning.
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***
The split 12" from East London's Portico Quartet and Polish pianist Hania Rani exemplifies how simple ideas can yield remarkable results. Each artist reworked the other's track, with impressive outcomes. Portico Quartet transforms Rani's 'Nest' into a dreamy, ethereal jazz piece, featuring undulating analogue synths, immersive chords, and floaty vocal samples carried by languid jazz drumming. Rani's take on Portico Quartet's 'With, Beside, Against' is even more striking. Her version, minimalistic and sparse, introduces twinkling piano motifs and her evocative vocals, creating a slowly unfolding, cinematic jazz experience. Both interpretations are nothing short of stunning.
David Twice & Fool Sentimental - "Vous Avez Dit Bizarre?" (4:45)
Disco Flegrei - "Hot" (7:45)
Disco Flegrei - "Titanesque" (with Francis Galio & Marco Silva) (5:10)
DJ Moar - "Feelings" (7:11)
HoldTight - "Legend" (3:37)
Yured Jones - "Far Away" (2:28)
Review: Fresh Sounds #000 is a new and unique series, limited and numbered to 150 examples thanks to the efforts of its parent company Ribo Cochlee. For the very first edition of the series, a mockley crew of newcomers come to the fore, be they DJ Moar, Disco Flegrei or Holdtight. Centring on woozy jazzdance and disco with an airily produced bent, the highlights on this one have to be Flegrei's 'Titamesque', which basks in a kind of sexy sophistry procured by the heady combination of live drums and a (we think) muted bass clarinet, and Yured Jones' 'Far Away', which breaks from the genre prescription for a more cinematic breakdown.
Somethin' 'Bout My Love (feat Polly Gibbons) (4:07)
Eleventy-Three (feat Danny Keane) (3:34)
There's Nothing You Can Tell Me (feat Yvette Riby-Williams) (3:26)
Fluoresce (feat Valerie Clarke) (5:01)
Review: Since 2009, Hackney Colliery Band has redefined brass band music and captivated audiences with dynamic live performances and critically acclaimed releases. Now, 15 years into their career, the nine-piece collective prepares to unveil their sixth album, Collaborations: Volume Two. Following the success of Collaborations: Volume One, which featured world music icons like Angelique Kidjo and Mulatu Astatke, this new album shifts focus to vocal tracks alongside instrumental pieces featuring harp, guitar, cello, and conch shell. Frontman Steve Pretty and fellow composers say it was the joy of innovation that fuelled the album, which includes collaborations with DJ Yoda, Joe Armon-Jones and more.
B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition
Love You More (6:58)
Night Moves (feat Ruby Cesan) (5:48)
Just Holdin' On (feat Eo) (3:48)
Journey To The Peak (7:06)
Brother Of Mine (feat Vanessa Freeman) (5:44)
Sleek (5:02)
Come Into The Light (feat La Coco) (5:25)
Storm (feat Rachel Clerk) (5:20)
Don't Think (feat Eo) (6:45)
Running Man (1:51)
Give Thanks (feat Arjuna Oakes & Mark De Clive-Lowe) (4:38)
Belo Dia (6:06)
Notes (5:26)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition***
]Nathan Haines, the renowned New Zealand musician, unveils his 11th studio album, marking his first solo venture since 2014. Known for his talents of saxophone, flute, and composition across jazz, electronic and dance genres, Haines melds his signature jazz sound with vibrant electronic and disco influences on Notes. This labor of love began years ago in collaboration with the late UK producer Phil Asher, whose influence permeates the album despite his passing during its creation. Featuring guest vocalists like UK soul-diva Vanessa Freeman and emerging talents Ajuna Oakes, Ruby Cesan, La Coco, and EO, Notes showcases a diverse range of voices intertwined with Haines's own instrumental strength. With contributions from bassist Jkriv and electronic jazz innovator Mark de Clive-Lowe, alongside beats by Marc Mac and acoustic bass by his father Kevin, the album is full of spirit and musical evolution. Frank Booker's production on three tracks adds depth, while the acoustic rendition of Rare Silk's 'Storm,' featuring vocalist Rachel Clarke, stands out as a poignant artistic highlight.
Review: The fourth ever solo studio album from the acclaimed electronic artist and composer Laurel Halo, Atlas is intended to guide the listener through their own subconscious mind, coming as an intense sequence of soaring ambiences and beatless jazz montages. Finding its footing in instrumental improvisation by Halo herself, plus featuring artists Coby Sey, James Underwood and Lucy Railton - and then blowing any assumptive connotation with jazz out of the park with its subtly effected vocal processing and electronic tinkerings and washes thereafter - fans can be sure that this is not going to be your stock experimental affair.
B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition
Abandon (3:55)
Naked To The Light (4:14)
Late Night Drive (4:43)
Sick Eros (4:07)
Belleville (2:21)
Sweat, Tears Or The Sea (2:42)
Atlas (6:45)
Reading The Air (5:30)
You Burn Me (1:12)
Earthbound (4:08)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***
The fourth ever solo studio album from the acclaimed electronic artist and composer Laurel Halo, Atlas is intended to guide the listener through their own subconscious mind, coming as an intense sequence of soaring ambiences and beatless jazz montages. Finding its footing in instrumental improvisation by Halo herself, plus featuring artists Coby Sey, James Underwood and Lucy Railton - and then blowing any assumptive connotation with jazz out of the park with its subtly effected vocal processing and electronic tinkerings and washes thereafter - fans can be sure that this is not going to be your stock experimental affair.
Review: As part of his Gondwana label's 10th anniversary, masterful Manchester trumpeter and contemporary jazz trendsetter Matthew Halsall has put together a special deluxe edition of his beautiful "Colour Yes" album with thick reverse board sleeves, silver block letter foiling and two printed inner sleeves. First released in 2009, the album showcases Halsall's deeply emotive style across the 8 achingly good, supremely spiritual tracks that glow with gorgeous piano playing, gently lilting drums and his own fantastic leads.
Review: Following 2014's When The World Was One, Halsall and the Gondwana collective continue their spiritual jazz adventure with another immaculate narrative. Now with much more vocal prowess, singer Josephine Oniyama plays a lead role in the story, adding consistency and personality to the Halsall's swooning, cinematic odysseys. Highlights include the Hathaway-style half spoken/half sung "Badder Weather", the frenetic double bass and brushed drum crescendos of "The Land Of", the (lark) ascending strings and oriental scales of "Cushendun" and the smoky, faraway Coltraneisms of the title track. Modern jazz doesn't get any more authentic than this.
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