Back catalogue: Funk

Review: Emerging from the vibrant but devilish Bermuda scene of the early 70s, Spacing Out stands as a gleaming instrumental lapis. The entirely self-taught band recombined the raw chi of OG instrumentation with pre-spirited arrangements by The Meters, The Temptations, Aretha Franklin and The Isley Brothers. This one cemented the Invaders as a finely polished instrumental ensemble, gilding the slabs for the retro-soul and funk scenes to follow, and which were in turn incubators of hatchlings Daptone and Big Crown. The reissue, a collaboration with the band and their full participation, comes complete with an expansive booklet by Jefferson "Chairman" Mao, offering an in-depth look at the group with rare photos. With expository, reverb-laden percs, ridin' breakdowns and low strung brasses, the record arouses a mood of loose-girdled passion.

Review: Released in 1977, this Nigerian rock album remains a hidden gem, rediscovered by a new generation thanks to recent reissues. Produced by Odion Iruoje, the album features a group of college students whose music captures the vibrant, post-civil war Nigerian rock scene. With a sound that blends Western rock influences like The Beatles, Buffalo Springfield and early Genesis with a distinct African touch, the album is a joyful yet melancholic exploration of love and harmony. Tracks like 'Love', 'Be Nice to the People' and 'Mary Enne' showcase the band's signature blend of fuzz guitar and heartfelt vocals. The music resonates with the exuberance of other African bands like Blo and Witch, yet it stands out with its heavy fuzz guitar and English vocals, steering clear of political or social activism in favor of pure, emotional expression. This album, recorded in Kenya, captures a moment in history when African rock was evolving, bridging cultures and sounds. It's a timeless piece, equally nostalgic, fresh and perfect entry point into African psychedelia for new listeners and a rewarding revisit for those already familiar with the genre.

Review: The reissue of Stone Alliance's self-titled debut album from 1976 is a thrilling revival for jazz fans. Originally released on Gene Perla's PM Records, this album has transitioned from a rare groove gem into a cornerstone of America's deep jazz canon. The all-analog remaster by Bernie Grundman enhances the record's sonic depth, removing Dolby noise reduction and allowing the music to breathe, resulting in what Grundman claims is the best sound this album has ever had. The ensemble, featuring percussionist Don Alias, bassist Gene Perla and saxophonist Steve Grossman, delivers a dynamic performance. The album kicks off with the electrifying 'Vaya Mulatto', a track that masterfully shifts from a samba-like groove to high-speed funk, exciting even non-jazz fans. 'Sweetie Pie' shows the group's chemistry with its infectious riff and adventurous sax explorations. Meanwhile, their languid interpretation of Stevie Wonder's 'Creepin'' adds a different flavor. This definitive reissue, complete with an informative eight-page booklet, makes this a record you need to have.

Review: Loving On The Flip Side compiles overlooked ballads from the flip sides of funk 45s in the Now-Again and Truth and Soul vaults, all presented in the same format as the Soul Cal anthology. This collection showcases incredible music that pairs heavy funk with sweet soul to create a sound the label calls "sweet funk." The journey began nearly a decade ago with the discovery of the Darling Dears and Funky Heavy's unique two-sided single which sparked a search that led to their full inclusion in this anthology. The process unearthed other soulful gems and now culminates in an essential exploration of black American creativity and musical innovation.