Review: Three standout tracks from Dave Lee's 2023 album Metamorphosis - which he dropped under his AC Soul Symphony alias - now get pulled apart and reworked by the one and only Dub-disco king Ray Mang. First comes 'It's Got To Be Love' with its super funky and bubbly bass and lush string elegance, then he flips 'Tradewinds' into a deeper, still lush and lavish instrumental disco gem that is seductive and warm for the winter months. Last but not least, 'K-Jee' brings an infectious groove to the dance floor with a little more percussive energy and upbeat bounce - but again swooning strings are the icing on the cake. All three of these are classy and sophisticated reworks from the one and only Mang.
Review: This 7" vinyl marks the inauguration of the new Konbini Klassics label and it features expertly curated city pop and funk gems from Japan's golden era. The A-side offers 1983's 'Do What You Do' which is a relaxed synth-driven track with irresistibly catchy vocals. On the B-side you can enjoy the sounds of Cosmos, the all-female supergroup who deliver their slap-funk classic 'Midnight Shuffle' with its big horns, funky bass and twinkling synth melodies. A perfect 45 rpm gem, this release brings Japan's iconic sounds back to life and then some.
Review: The first edition in Mister Mushi's 'Disco Donuts' series hears the producer flip two largely unknown disco-soul originals, both of which are like needles in haystacks. 'Can't Buy Soul' obverses this 7", riffing on Hebrew Rodgers' 1973 Original Sound classic 'Can't Buy Soul' - though it may have been eternally obfuscated by the Beatles song of similar title, the song is wickedly authentic and works just as well with a 4x4 as it did with its OG broken backbeat. 'Feet Don't Fail Me Now' does similar, grabbing a tricky disco song of uncertain provenance, and lending it an obstinate, disco-mixable straightening-out.
Review: LUXXURY's 'Reworks Volume 7' serves up irresistible disco edits, transforming classics into fresh, dancefloor-ready versions with a signature flair. Opening with 'Is It Real, Now?', LUXXURY reimagines Empire of the Sun's 'Walking on a Dream' into a more melodic and expansive experience, adding layers that amplify its epic feel. On 'Rap Chore', Blondie's 'Rapture' is slowed down to a funky, slick groove, highlighted by a smooth guitar riff that enhances its iconic cool factor. Side-2 kicks off with 'Groove Prove', a classy, disco-infused take on Madonna's 'Get Into The Groove', capturing the catchy energy of the 80s with a fresh twist. Finally, 'Disco 82' brings a late-night Latin-inspired vibe that's perfect for setting the mood as the night unfolds. Each track offers LUXXURY's unique touch, making this collection of edits a must for fans of inventive and stylish disco reworks.
Review: Soul Service is a new label from the Atlanta-based party crew of the same name. For their first trick, they enlist the fine sounds of Italian Afro house and disco man Gledd, who shows his skills across blends of Latin, jazz, house, and world music influences. 'Jazz Con Sabor' opens with lots of frosty cymbals and big horn stabs over shuffling drums, then 'Dile' has a more playful and funky skip to it that soon infects your soul. 'No Lo Quiero Saber' (Latin mix) is deeper, more percussive and packed with sunshine from the expressive vocals.
Review: Here we have a new Disco Combine ready to plough the proverbial disco fields. This time Dave Lee harvests some disco/dunk gold with his mix of 'Dancin' For Your Love', a foot stompin' Rod Temperton style dancefloor rocket filled with soaring strings, rippling piano, vocal harmonies and killer bass action. Backed up by a cosmic Moog dub which doubles down on the delays and synths. On the flip Dave doths his cap to mid 80s NYC for some serious proto house biz. Brimming with detuned cowbells, house basslines & proggy synth arpeggios under a Colonel Abrams-ish vocal. Think Serious Intention meeting Visual in Cultural Vibe's garage.
Lou Rawls - "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine" (Kenny Summit, Frankie Knuckles & Eric Kupper's Brawls Deep unreleased remix)
Kenny Summit, Frankie Knuckles & Eric Kupper - "Loving You" (feat Yasmeen)
Review: This special 12" sampler, part of the forthcoming compilation, taps into the timeless spirit of the Paradise Garage with two unreleased collaborations that showcase the late Frankie Knuckles' legacy. On the A-side, the final production from Knuckles, alongside Kenny Summit and Eric Kupper, delivers a soulful, uplifting remix of Lou Rawls' "You'll Never Find Another Love Like Mine." It's pure house brilliance that captures the essence of the Garage sound. On the flip, the trio reunites for "Loving You," a Motown-inspired anthem featuring Yasmeen's powerful vocals. These tracks, which have been staple spins for DJs like Cajmere and Sonny Fodera, form part of a larger collection that celebrates house music's rich history, with remixes of iconic tracks. The cover art, designed by Alexander Juhasz, adds an extra layer of cultural significance to this must-have release.
Review: Say She She's latest festive offering becomes even more irresistible with this special opaque dark purple vinyl edition. The A-side reimagines Marvin Gaye's 'Purple Snowflakes,' wrapping cascading piano lines and delicate harmonies in a mood that's equal parts nostalgic and otherworldly. On the B-side, their first original holiday tune, 'This Wintertime,' evokes warmth and intimacy, celebrating the simple joy of togetherness. Pressed on this stunning coloured vinyl, the release pairs perfectly with its timeless sound, offering collectors and fans alike something truly special for the season.
Review: Disco Mind is a young but already standout label and now it is back with Feijao Amigo, another must-have EP featuring Brazilian gems expertly reworked by two of Brazil's top edit maestros in Joutro Mundo and Bernardo Pinheiro. Pinheiro kicks off with 'Fogo' which is big on funk and brass and perfect for peak time, while his second cut 'Diga Amor' is a lively rework guaranteed to move you. On the flip, Mundo offers 'Santos Da Guine' which has been sourced from an ultra-rare record and elevated by a subtle touch-up. The EP closes with 'Dia Lindo' which is a collaboration between Joutro Mundo and Pasternak and is full of sunshine, funk and bold hooks.
Review: The first notes of Strength In Numbers pull you in with the immediacy of a tightly wound groove. 'Team Spirit' sets the stage with sharp percussion and a bassline that feels as if it's pushing against a restraint, only to give way to an effortless swing. 'Gear Up Rudi!' follows with a cool, almost cinematic feel, as Gibin's intricate rhythm patterns dance around the space between the beats. The pace slows slightly on 'Come Mornin' (featuring Sandra St. Victor),' where the warmth of her vocals transforms the track into a soulful, melodic anchor. Yet, it's on 'No Matter What' that the LP really finds its strideian undulating groove, building steadily before its final, emotive release. The album balances thoughtful restraint with moments of release and in that, Gibin creates something that moves through time without losing its pulse.
Review: Under the Tigerbalm alias, Rose Robinson has done a stellar job in crafting a trademark style that blends elements of boogie, nu-disco and proto-house with a variety of global musical influences - most notably African, Latin and South-East Asian sounds. On this welcome return to Razor N Tape, the London-based producer leans into the Latin inspirations, first via the colourful nu-disco breeze of 'Profunda Alma' (featuring regular vocalist Joy Tyson), and then on the 21st century synth-samba of 'Vem Ca' (featuring Jao Selva's honeyed vocals). Yuksek turns the latter into a club-ready Latin nu-disco gem, before rising stars Make a Dance deliver two rubs of 'Profunda Alma': a superb, warehouse-ready and TB-303-laden 'Acid Remix', and a percussive, spaced-out and decidedly delicious 'Tribal Dub'.
Review: Kendrick Lamar's 'King Kunta' and Kelis' 'Milkshake' hear an unlikely pairing on the perfunctorily named Edits series. The former track - some might agree its dust is still settling, as it was released in 2015 - sounds almost twice as lively here, its "oh, yes, you can, oh, yes you can!" ad-lib sounding about as squeezed as a hand-wrung lime steeped in its own juices and then dried out in Saharan heat. There's a diatonic, electric piano hook added on top too; Kelis' flip has a similar feel, mashing up the noughts teaser hit with a dash of easily identified r&b goodness - we're 99% sure you'll recognise the instrumental, its having also originated somewhere in the familiar fires of pop musical preeminence.
Review: Mad Black Latin Combo featuring Nick Kurusawa brings a delightful single with Say You Love Me Girl, released on Diguma Doughnuts from Japan. This 7" gem merges many styles and influences into one. On Side-1, 'Say You Love Me Girl' showcases a smooth and soulful blend of styles, highlighted by powerful vocal performance. It's a track that effortlessly bridges different musical influences, creating an engaging and catchy pop hit. Underneath it all, you have funk, salsa and disco all blending into a classy gem. Side-2 offers 'Say You Love Me Girl' (Mad Black Remix), which takes a more atmospheric and melodic approach. This remix transforms the track into a chilled-out, laid-back version, providing a fresh and relaxing alternative. This release combines energetic vibes with a smooth, sophisticated twist.
Tutto Un Deja Vu (Sparkling Attitude Italo Rave remix)
Magica (Gledd remix)
Review: Tamati's Notte in Riviera EP on the ever-stronger young label Saint Wax is a perfect bit of Balearic house escapism. The title track, which translates as 'night on the Riviera', is just that - a humid late-night house cut with some erect female vocals. 'Tutto Un Deja Vu' cuts loose with freewheeling melodies and blissed-out pads, and 'Magica' then goes deep. Italian producer Franz Scala blends 80s vibes with modern sensibilities like few others as he shows on his remix of the title cut, then Sparkling Attitude and Gledd add their own fresh versions.
Review: Italian disco DJ and producer Corrado Alunni shares his latest nu-disco soul nostrum, 'Make It Feel More', which, owing to the title, is an EP whose aim is to enliven the largely electronic and mechanistic bent of nu-disco with a good bit of live-recorded pizzazz. Such is heard on the title track, which moves naturally through both augmented and diminished electric piano cadences, not to mention slap basses, to be poised against the beats. Then 'Perfect Direction' brings the boughed basses and disco hits to a new layer of chill; with this, and the ensuing 'Keep Moving', it feels as if we've kept finding new rooms, in which new room contains a new type of hors d'oeuvre to try. 'The Beat Goes On' closes on a snappier and vinyl-driven vexation, perfect for the snakier kind of dancer.
Review: Crazy P's latest album offers a clean, classic experience, while still showcasing the band's skill in merging retro influences with fresh, modern energy. Tracks like 'Portals' and 'Not Too Late' highlight the depth of their sound, and the late Danielle Moore's signature vocals provide an emotional anchor throughout. The pressing is high quality, ensuring every intricate detail shines through. This edition is perfect for both audiophiles and fans, offering an immersive listening experience that pays tribute to Moore's legacy within the band.
Review: The Space Grapes return with a 12" EP from the Italian trio Collettivo Immaginario which is made up of LA-based drummer Tommaso Cappellato, pianist Alberto Lincetto and bassist Nicolo Masetto. Known for their experimental fusion of eclectic jazz, funk, downtempo beats and vintage Italian library music, this release marks a fine exploration of Italian vocals. The A-side, 'Luce' features a vibrant mix of 80s jazz-funk and boogie in an extended, energetic version. On the B-side, 'Luna Gioia' presents a contemporary take on downtempo Brazilian funk and slow disco complemented by an instrumental version that highlights the music's intrinsic beauty.
Fouk - "Loving At First Sight" (feat Debroah Bond - vocal mix) (5:35)
Atjazz & Shea Soul - "Home" (vocal mix) (6:04)
Robin S - "Show Me Love" (Emmaculate remix) (6:03)
Risk Assessment - "It's Not Right But It's Okay" (feat Monica Blaire - Grant Nelson remix) (6:11)
Review: Volume 4 of Reel People Music's 12" vinyl series delivers four exceptional tracks from the RPM catalogue. On Side A, Dutch duo Fouk teams up with US r&b artist Deborah Bond for the smooth 'Loving At First Sight', followed by the soulful collaboration 'Home' from Martin 'Atjazz' Iveson and Shea Soul. Side B offers two dancefloor anthems: Emmaculate's disco remix of Robin S's 'Show Me Love' and Grant Nelson's powerful rework of 'It's Not Right, But It's Okay' by Risk Assessment featuring Monica Blaire.
Review: Marc Cotterell's 'Feel The Groove' EP is a vibrant, disco-infused collection that merges classic grooves with modern production. The title track, 'Feel The Groove', is a light, fun disco gem, capturing a funky 70s mood with a fresh UK garage twist and that xylophone magic touch. 'Get It Right' takes the funk further, building up to a filtered disco crescendo that's perfect for late-night floors, oozing with energy and sleek edits. On the flip side, 'My Groove' offers a deeper vibe, giving the EP a well-rounded feel with its rich bassline and smooth production. Finally, 'Work Me' is catchy and playful, bringing a polished sound that keeps the rhythm flowing. Altogether, 'Feel The Groove' is a solid pick for those craving both nostalgic and modern dancefloor moments.
Review: Sgt Slick returns with Vol 3 of the Sgt Slick Recuts series, delivering a fresh batch of disco-infused tracks that are perfect for the dancefloor. On Side-1, 'Upton Upon Purple' blends disco, funk, and new wave into an energetic mix that evokes the vibes of Sheila E. and Prince, making it an ideal choice for high-energy club sessions. 'Missing You Is A Wish' follows with a spirited diva disco vibe, combining a driving beat and infectious rhythm that promises to keep dancers moving all night. Side-2 opens with 'No Cost To Run Youthful Hearts,' where sweeping strings create a lush late-night disco atmosphere. The groove is both sophisticated and hip, perfect for those peak hours. The closing track, 'Owned By Rhythm,' cleverly incorporates a sample from Grace Jones' 'Slave to the Rhythm,' offering a groove that's impossible to resist. Vol 3 is a great addition to Sgt Slick's catalog, offering a variety of danceable, disco-driven cuts that will elevate any DJ set.
Review: Light Touches Records continues its mission to shine a spotlight on rare gems, forgotten classics, and unknown grooves with their tenth release, helmed by Andrea Passenger. Digging deep into disco, afro, boogie and funk, Passenger delivers four expertly edited tracks. On the A-side, 'Roots' offers a driving disco tune for peak-time moments, while 'Psych Afro Roller' takes things into more adventurous territory. On the flip, 'New Dance' adds boogie flair with quirky synths, and 'Feel The Feeling' wraps it up with a moody, deeper vibeiall edited without overdubs for maximum authenticity.
Space Cowboy (Michael Gray's Good Vibe Zone extended) (6:23)
Space Cowboy (Michael Gray's Good Vibe Zone dub) (5:50)
Review: Jamiroquai always had a unique sound that sat somewhere between pop, house, disco, funk and cosmic delight. His great singles were always ripe for remixing and few do it better than house man Michael Gray. Here he tackles the evergreen 'Space Cowboy' with a Good Vibe Zone - extended mix that layers in some nice funky, soulful drums and lavish cosmic melodies that make it perfect for cultured clubs. On the flip of this new 12" from Sultra is a dub mix that is a little more playful and party starting. Both tunes are sure to raise the roof.
Review: Italian twosome Gino and Dino (that's G&D to you and me) have released some of the most on-point and well-crafted re-edits of recent times. Their EPs are always worth a look, and this one - the first of two featuring other editors alongside the popular duo - is no exception. They begin on side A with 'PeeGee870', a fine version of a low-slung, synth-sporting Italian disco chugger from (we think) the turn of the 1980s, before moving on to the eyes closed disco bliss of 'understanding', where heady lead vocals and sweeping orchestration catches the ear. Over on side B, the previous unheard G.Bros and In.an offer up their 'Balearic' edit of 'Polpette', joining the dots between laidback, loved-up disco, quirky Balearic colour and huggable dancefloor lusciousness.
Review: Psychemagik return with their signature knack for transforming pop classics into deep, genre-blending journeys of electronic music. Their latest offering showcases their ability to take familiar tracks and reimagine them in a way that feels fresh and immersive. The first track is a vibrant, calypso-infused rework of a classic pop song, effortlessly blending disco, house and island instrumentation. The result is a classy instrumental version that radiates warmth and groove, making it perfect for both dancefloors and laid-back listening. On the flip side, the duo takes another beloved 80s hit and takes it into new sonic territories. This remix is deep and atmospheric, turning the original into a trippy, spacious experience that feels futuristic yet timeless. Psychemagik's remix elevates the track, adding layers of psychedelic textures and a subtle sense of grandeur, while maintaining the emotional core of the original. With this release, Psychemagik continue to demonstrate their mastery of pushing boundaries, seamlessly blending retro influences with modern, forward-thinking production.
Review: Geoff Bastow's Music To Varnish Owls By might just win the title for best album name in history, but don't let that playful label fool youithis is serious library funk. If you're familiar with Bastow's work, it's probably through his disco gems like K.I.D.'s 'You Don't Like My Music' and 'Don't Stop.' Yet, this 1975 classic is the true starting point. Soulful and unfiltered, the tracks are ripe for sampling; think Madlib before Madlib. Forget that elusive L300 original and dive into this reissue instead.
Review: Say She She bring soulful magic to the holidays with two tracks that effortlessly combine tradition and originality. Their cover of Marvin Gaye's 'Purple Snowflakes' brims with soft, tumbling melodies and an understated psychedelic charm, while 'This Wintertime' radiates with the heartfelt warmth of their first original Christmas tune. Lush harmonies and thoughtful arrangements define both tracks, reminding us of music's power to connect and uplift. This festive 7" single captures the spirit of the season in Say She She's signature style.
Review: Volume 4 of the Make Up series is another doozy and this one brings together accomplished house heads Camille, Chez Damier, and Nico Lahs in a celebration of underground disco classic "through the lens of 60's and 70's underground comix." Similar to these rebellious reads, the tracks on this release carved their niche with purists seeking distinct and thrilling sounds. Across the double album, Camille's contributions include Mystic Pleasure's 'Back Door (Getting Down)' and Cold Fire's 'Badder Than Bad' which both bring soulful melodies and infectious rhythms, Chez Damier adds Fascination's 'Shine My Love' and Bileo's 'You Can Win' with shimmering vocals and funky basslines and together, they make for an exhilarating mix of disco brilliance.
Review: Late Night Tuff Guy has long since proven his credentials as a master of the cheeky edit. He now mints his own new label Tuff Cuts with a first EP of what will surely be many. It features two reworks hand picked by the man himself and then pressed on 12". The first is a dancefloor ready rework of the Bill Withers classic 'Lovely Day' with a nice rolling groove and plenty of the original's charm still in tact. Things get more sultry and seductive on the soul drench and more slow motion sounds of 'Love About' on the flip. It's a real beauty for the end of the night moments when love is in the air.
Spielplatz (Quiet Village instrumental mix) (13:58)
Spielplatz (Quiet Village Deep Space dub) (13:44)
Review: Matt Edwards and Joel Martin have done many fantastic remixes as Quiet Village, but little tops their 2007 'deep space' version of Mudd's 'Spielplatz'. Originally released on a relatively limited 12" by U.S label Rong Music, it reimagined the track as an epic slow-motion chugger that combined cosmic, spaced-out, turn-of-the-90s deep house synth sounds and metronomic dub disco bass with locked-in beats, echo-laden (sampled) spoken word vocals and all manner of intergalactic effects. This essential (and once again highly limited) reissue boasts the duo's famous - and deliciously epic - original 'Deep Space Dub' on side B, with the pair's vocal free (and previously unreleased) 'instrumental mix' on side A. A super-slow, ultra-deep house classic!
Review: Some labels deal only in pristine soul legitness - and Celestial Echo are one such set of aesthetes. A reissues label, Celestial Echo focuses on modern soul and boogie, and is curated by Miche (Michael Davies) and Stu Clark. Following three impressively chosen sonic chrisms, all reissued in 2024 - releases by Glenda McLeod, Brutal Force and Winfield Parker - comes this fourth foray into one of the best-loved and perhaps only publicly known tunes by the obscure boogie singer Lisa Hill: 'I Am On The Real Side'. New York's Qit Records were the original purveyors of this track, though its initial obscurity is so baffling to us that we'd guess some case of derelict nobility was at play here; either that, or there was just this much amazing soul music being made in the big city at the time! Here, Hill proclaims her place on the right side of love, with a lyrical emphasis on the object of her passions proving themself to her before she submits.
Review: The elusive MYOKEN crew delivers another tantalising 12" of dubbed-out edits with a white label release featuring 'Give' and 'Hurt'. On the A-side, 'Give' is a sultry, downtempo blend of echoing vocal cuts and laid-back beats that stretch out like a haze-filled evening. 'Hurt' on the flip side takes a similarly murky approach, warping pop elements into a mesmerising dub-heavy soundscape. With limited pressing and minimal distribution, this release is already sparking excitement among collectorsian essential pick-up for those after raw, dub-infused edits that push the limits of the pop format.
Review: T RWK's 'Listen' EP brings a dynamic blend of soulful and New York house with two standout tracks that capture the spirit of the dancefloor. The title track, 'Listen'. is a funky, infectious number with a quirky rhythm and vocal hooks that make it an undeniable crowd-pleaseriits energy and groove are pure dancefloor magic. On the flip side, 'Hi Fi' shifts into a chugging Latin-inspired groove, blending tribal rhythms with a soulful touch that gives it a warm, resonant feel. Together, these tracks showcase T RWK's ability to create deep, rhythmic house with an irresistible vibe.
James Brown - "Funky Men" (Dimitri From Paris Special version) (6:13)
The JB's - "Just Wanna Make You Dance" (feat Maxxi - Dimitri From Paris Special version) (6:48)
Review: Dimitri From Paris returns with a fresh installment of his celebrated DFP Vaults series, highlighting deep cuts that reinforce his status as a top-tier remixer, DJ, and a true connoisseur of dance music's hidden gems. This release holds particular significance for Dimitri, as it pays homage to the legendary James Brown, a figure whose influence in music is beyond measure. The release features Dimitri's 'Special Version' of 'Funky Men,' a track from James Brown's Soul Syndrome. Originally overlooked by Dimitri in 1981, it now shines with a unique disco beat that he's reimagined using both vintage and modern editing techniques. The track has already proven its power on the dance floor. On the flip side, Dimitri revisits 'Just Wanna Make You Dance' by The J.B.'s, featuring Maxxi. This rare disco track, with its Caribbean flair, gets Dimitri's expert touch, enhancing its dancefloor appeal. DFP Vaults, the sister label to Le-Edits Records, presents this release with meticulous attention to detail, featuring state-of-the-art mastering and vintage-inspired packaging.
Review: Late Nite Tuff Guy's Soul Cut #04 offers three expertly crafted edits that breathe new life into classic 70s tracks, blending disco, jazz, funk, and pop into a seamless listening experience. On Side-1, 'Beijo' sets the tone with a smooth, disco-infused reimagining of Earth, Wind & Fire's classic interlude. The track has a light funk undercurrent, creating a vibe that's perfect for dancing all night, with a Balearic twist that adds a fresh touch to the original. Side-2 kicks off with 'Sunshine,' a tasteful edit of Roy Ayers' iconic 'Everyone Loves the Sunshine.' Late Nite Tuff Guy maintains the soulful essence of the original while adding his own groove, making it a perfect summer anthem. The EP closes with 'U Got It Bad,' a rendition of Stevie Wonder's 'You've Got It Bad Girl,' reworked into a smooth, jazzy track that's both nostalgic and timeless. An excellent 12" for fans of classic disco, funk and jazz, with a modern twist.
Review: When it first landed on Leng in 2018, Fernando Pulichino's 'Search of Indigo' delivered a typically attractive blend of dub disco, nu-disco, Balearica and stylish lead vocals from Luca Gaspirini. Six years on, the track returns in remixed form. The Argentinian producer and multi-instrumentalist kicks things off with his own 'AM Mix', a deliciously low-slung and psychedelic chugger propelled forwards by raw, restless TB-303 acid lines, low-slung bass guitar and the dreamiest of pads. Luca Trevisi AKA LTJ Experience handles the rest of the EP, delivering a trio of hazy, slow motion and pleasingly dubbed-out revisions. His A-side remix, in which echoing vocal snippets and jangly guitars catch the ear, is followed by the superbly squelchy, acid-flecked 'Dirty Mix' and the more immersive and hazy dancefloor 'Dub'.
Funky Nassau (with The Beginning Of The End) (4:00)
Can't You See Me (with Roy Ayers) (4:36)
Follow My Love (with Luther) (6:26)
I'll Do Anything For You (with Barry White) (5:35)
Top Of The Stairs (with Collins & Collins) (5:04)
Shame (with Evelyn Champagne King) (5:04)
Midnight Affair (with Sandra Wright) (4:37)
Review: Electric Soul Records get themselves going with a bang with 'Heaven', the result of the ensouled unity of Teddy Pendergrass and Paul Ross And The Funk Selective. With the former remixing a whopping eight of the latter's original soul works, this red-hot record is in turn a downy flutterer on 12" wax, made up of several soulful house cutups and edits. Replete with shakers, cabasas and pipey lead guitars set against funky overtones, this isn't an LP to be missed by any means.
Review: Black Truffle is back and serving up a delicious four-course musical meal that traverses vintage disco styles while blending in jazz-funk and Latin influences. Black Truffle has long since proven his ability to serve up fine reinterpretations of hidden 70s gems and for preserving the original essence while adding his own flair. 'Disco Meringue' kicks off this latest gem with a crisp, piano-driven Latin vibe ideal for mixing between disco, Latin and deep house. 'Drum Tartar' is a percussion-driven exploration of jazz-funk and Bossa-Nova featuring a powerful drum break. 'Consomme' then delivers a high-energy dancefloor banger with pulsing percussion, organ riffs and sax solos and finally 'Souffle' concludes with a funky big-band jazz number.
Review: REPRESS ALERT!: Gledd brings a great mix of funk, disco, Afro and plenty of extra special magic to this hot new 12" on Saint Wax. It opens with 'Papa Bel' which is a steamy cut with florid melodic leads and tribal percussion. 'Tanda' then brings wailing vocals and more organic and jumbled grooves that ooze summer heat. The Afro rhythms continue through 'Rewild' which has a lively broken beat that rides stiff drums and last of all is the most intense of the lot - 'Guado Loop' is heavily layered with drums and perc, vocals, congas and background chants that will get any dancefloor in a sweat.
Review: A dazzling homage to vintage disco and new wave, infused with a modern flair. Side-1 opens with 'Desire (Trey Favorite mix)', an Italo disco gem that channels the essence of Yaz's 'Situation'. Its nostalgic 80s vibe, fused with new wave influences, is irresistibly danceable. Following that, 'Search The Nite (Taped Up mix)' offers a freestyle-inspired journey reminiscent of early 80s Latin Rascals edits, delivering rhythmic charm and groovy nostalgia. On Side-2, 'Desire (Hearts Burn mix)' presents a futuristic take on the original track, layering cool vibes with experimental sounds that feel fresh yet familiar. Closing the EP, 'Search The Nite (Razor beats)' strips things down to a beat-focused version, emphasising sharp edits and rhythmic intensity. A vibrant celebration of disco, nu-disco and Italo, seamlessly blending electrofunk and freestyle influences into a cohesive, vintage-meets-modern sound.
Where Are You Coming From (Jane Weaver rework) (4:05)
Out From Under (Emperor Machine extended rework) (8:49)
We All Need (Jezebell Ghost Train mix) (5:47)
Review: Perhaps one of the most important bands to come out of Manchester ever. Up there with Joy Division, their funky post-punk is the very essence of that genre and possibly why a lot of bands like to call themselves post-punk. They're just wishing they sound as good as A Certain Ratio. For this latest release, the follow-up to their album It All Comes Down To This, they've reworked songs from said album - sensationally - and released a Christmas single. 'Now And Laughter' is described as an ode to "the unsung heroes that are on hand when the pressures of the festivities can become too much to bear." It's awash with sumptuous echoing guitar, a somber lead vocal which makes you want to raise your lighter and gently sway. There's a hint of David Bowie in there and the lyrics appear genuinely emotional and appreciative. This is a song of blissful poignance that can help remind us of what really matters in life as it captures a sense of vulnerability and awe in the magic of the moment.
Review: Armed with a battery of synths, Sydney twosome D.D Mirage make music rooted in the 1980s. On their debut single, released a few months ago, they explored street soul and lovers rock; on this follow-up, they charge towards the dancefloor with a little help from Daniel Monaco and Andrea de Fazio (Nu Genea). In its original mix form, 'Feel It' is a colourful, jazz-funk fired slab of boogie brilliance smothered in heady female vocal snippets and delay-laden drum machine handclaps. The latter element comes to the fore on the simply superb, Larry Levan style 'Instrumental' dub that follows. Over on the flip, they opt for a sunnier and more languid mid-tempo jazz-funk sound on 'So Hot' before label chief Kev Griffiths dons his Jura Soundsystem guise and delivers a wonderfully spaced-out dancefloor dub.
Review: Uladzimir Patapenka is a name you might not know, but you may know that he previously worked under the LIPSKI alias. Now leaning into disco and working as Patapenka, he is a Minsk-based artist who steps out with his second solo EP and the opener 'Bisous' features a host of talented musicians adding their skills. It's a lush and rich sound with great instrumental grooves and catchy hooks. All three of the other cuts mix up different elements of disco, funk and soul to make for irresistibly feelgood and emotive listening. Another vital slab of wax from the Funkyjaws Music crew.
Review: Jazz-funk twosome Zamie (Jadie Kiggundu AKA Ziggy Funk and pal Jamie McShane) impressed with their recent album, Fortuitous. On this EP, two of the set's most potent cuts have been given the remix treatment with club dancefloors in mind. Incognito main man Bluey handles side A, offering up a smooth, groovy and musically detailed take on 'Smash N Grab' that peppers a slap-bass-propelled groove with spacey synth pads, jammed out Rhodes stabs and all manner of life-affirming electric piano solos. Over on side B, Glaswegian veteran Al Kent takes 'Wildfire' down the disco, turning in a near 11-minute, Tom Moulton style rub rich in punchy synth-horns, snaking sax solos and spacey synth solos aplenty. Colourful, grown-up disco with a jazz-funk flex... more please!
Review: For the first time ever, the early 2000s house anthem 'Lola's Theme' by The Shapeshifters gets a 7" release, paired with the soulful disco classic that inspired it - Johnnie Taylor's 'What About My Love'. A timeless blend of modern house energy and classic soul, this release is a must-have for fans of both eras, capturing the essence of dance floors across decades in one essential package.
Review: The Patchouli Brothers have long been known for their impeccable edits and here return to RNT's acclaimed white label series with a fresh take on unexpected genres. Departing from their usual disco territory, this four tracker dives into 90s house, 80s electro-boogie, Euro dance and Freestyle and showcases their deep and versatile crates. From the soulful chords of 'Male Dans La Peau' to the arpeggiated groove of 'See You Tonight', the cheeky fun of 'Mista Hasta La Vista,' and the infectious hook of 'All Nite,' every track is a standout. Toronto's finest deliver a record full of surprises here.
Review: Supernature Disco main man James Greenwood has been using the Semi-Skimmed Edits alias since 2020, serving up a series of high-quality rework EPs packed to the rafters with tasteful, tried-and-tested rearrangements of largely overlooked cuts. He's at it again on volume seven. On the A-side, he delivers a tidy extension and rearrangement of Graffiti's seriously sought-after blue-eyed soul/yacht rock cover of Ned Doheny classic 'Get It Up For Love', emphasising the picturesque wooziness and saucer-eyed warmth ('Down4Love'). He ups the tempo on 'Satisfactory', tidying up a gorgeous and sun-splashed slab of orchestrated disco joy, before doffing a cap to the Unambombers' 'Electrik Souls' series on the quirky and life-affirming disco-funk of 'Jump 4 It', a light-touch re-wire of an early 80s jam by Aretha Franklin.
Review: When Danilo 'MCDE' Plessow and Bobby van Putten established their Space Grapes label last year, it was their stated intention to present 'the best in contemporary live dance music'. What they meant, we suspect, was releases like this debut album from van Putten's Another Taste combo - a four-piece whose colourful and sonically authentic sound rooted in boogie, 80s electrofunk and obscure, private press disco. The results are undeniably impressive, sounding something like a long-lost album from 1983 - complete with kaleidoscopic synths, soulful vocals and killer basslines - of the kind that dusty-fingered crate diggers consider a 'holy grail'. Highlights include the Plessow co-produced boogie brilliance of 'Anything You Want' and the funky bassline driven mid-tempo disco-soul of 'Time Is On My Side'.
Review: REPRESS ALERT!: Cruise Music marks its tenth EP by serving up what it says are "secret funky house weapons" and there isn't much wrong with their description. Danny Cruz kicks off with 'Shoulda Been You' which rides on smooth grooves and has gentle synth waves breaking over the beats as heartfelt vocal sounds rise out of the mix. Mark Funk's 'True Lies' brings a classic 90s vocal sample to a non-stop soul beat and the B-side has got Dirty Disco Stars going big and funky and glorious on 'Look Up' then Mirko & Meex Re-touch 'Young Hearts' .
Review: The Perpetual Singers is a collective of gospel singers who hail from Amsterdam. They have linked up with producer Arp Frique for this tasteful new two-tracker via Unknownunknown. The 12" kicks off with 'Father Father' which has some brilliantly jazzy fingers dancing about a Rhodes piano and bringing great feels while a wordless ad-lib brings plenty of soul up top and some retro-future melodies bring a contemporary twist to this most bubbly of soul cuts. 'Elena' on the flip is a more driving grove with dusty drums and big guitar licks adding texture to the bright, shiny chords. It's a passionate sound with a catchy edge.
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