Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Band - "What Can You Bring Me?" (2:45)
Review: You just cannot miss with this superb label which is now up to release number 33 in this series. And the latest is a golden-era classic featuring legendary mic men A Tribe Called Quest and top soul boy Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Band. The A-side features the track taken from A Tribe Called Quest's Love Movement album so is packed with their signature beats and bars. On the B-side, you are treated to the funky original sample source from Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Band which delivers a raw, infectious groove. If you love classic hip hop and funk, and why wouldn't you, this is a great pairing.
Curtis Baker & The Bravehearts - "Fried Fish ’n’ Collard Greens" (2:40)
The Native Yinzer - "The Hip Strip" (2:33)
Review: The fourth edition in Original Gravity's Down In The Basement series, which gathers instrumental soul and swing cuts onto worthy 7" slabs, resounding the fervent 1960s decadal gap in which mod reigned supreme. With juleps flowing and kneecaps knocking, Abramo & Nestor bring newfangled electric pianistic swing with 'Dig It!', while a twinned "hit it!" injunction is heard from Floyd James & The GTs on the reissued 'Work That Thang'; James' voice is tubed and speed-delayed to terrific effect, achieving a sprung intonation. Curtis Baker brassifies the bonanza with the lively 'Fried Fish 'n' Collard Greens', while The Native Yinzer's exiting excitation 'The Hip Strip' quilts our ears with a mnemic, down-feathery Hammond-breaks bit.
Review: Australian soul singer Stella Angelico has been at it since 2012, and now, signaling yet more to come, we hear a fresh 7" documenting her work with Cookin' On 3 Burners, a Melbourne-based band whose specialism is Hammond organ funk and soul. On the A we've got 'I'm Comin' Home To You', a nimble pop-soul of impeccable quality, expressing the joy of a long-awaited return. The B-sider, 'Whole Woman', is more of a monologue and slow jam, expressing the joy of staying fully embodied and grounded.
Review: These two tracks from Mike Bandoni and Chip Wickham have been a long time coming. The two stablemates from the 'Craig Charles Fantasy Funk Band' have been discussing a collaboration for years and now; and it's finally in the bag! Mike brings his trademark killer funky drums (recorded by the legendary Malcolm Catto), percussion, Rhodes, bass and vintage guitar vibes to the party, whilst Chip delivers some sublime and highly complimentary work on sax and flute. 'Infinity Pool' sounds like a long-lost Bobbi Humphrey-meets-Bob James composition, with the flute taking centre stage - underpinned by what can only be described as mammoth funk grooves on every other instrument - while 'Get It!' is a cool number, channelling a phenomenally infectious groove and hook, both of which remain in the brain for days.
Review: 'Storia Fantasy' is a second release from Reparto Vinile that again marries Italo influences to a range of different genres. The label is based in Monferrato in Italy (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and it is helmed by influential Italian Luca Bernascone. Here he assumes his new production alias Cabopolonio for a super new single. The vocal version is a nice mood tempo roller with lush pines and cosmic twinkles, vibraphone melodies and a nice retro edge to it. The instrumental version is a little more deep and slow. The dub element means it seduces even more and marks a second fine drop from this label.
Review: The Milanese outfit dive headlong into cinematic Afro-disco on this limited 7", reworking two cult dancefloor staples with characteristic flair. On the A-side, their version of Piero Umiliani's 'Discomania' hits with tightened syncopation and swirling synth arrangements, turning the cosmic Italo-disco cut into a hypnotic afrobeat strut. Flip it over for a rich reimagining of Azymuth's 'Jazz Carnival'iCalibro 35 boost the groove with deep-bottomed funk and crisp horns, pushing the original's samba swing into widescreen. Known for their work at the intersection of funk, soundtrack and psych, the band bring sharp musicianship and warm analogue heat to both sides of this essential 45.
Review: On the latest edition of their excellent Soul Essentials series, Outta Sight has decided to bring together two versions of 'Ordinary Joe', a seemingly perennial favourite written by the late, great Terry Callier. His celebrated 1972 recording - all bold, sing-along choruses, organ stabs, jangling piano and lolloping grooves - breezes its way across side A, while Jerry Butler's earlier version, laid to tape in 1970, sits on side B. His version is much more expansive and musically detailed than Callier's take, with superb production from Gamble & Huff and some brilliant orchestral arrangements courtesy of Donny Hathaway. Both versions are, or course, incredible.
Rickey Calloway & His Tennessee Band - "Do It On The One (Stay In The Pocket)" (3:10)
The Tennessee Band - "Ain't It A Crime" (instrumental) (3:06)
Review: Funk Night cop a couple of fine funk gems here from Rickey Calloway. He is an r&b singer, as well as a rhythm guitar musician and songwriter from Jacksonville, Florida. His Tennessee Band helps him serve up funk that comes direct from the 70s, James Brown style. Both of the singles here are [rimed to fire up the floor, with 'Do It On The One (Stay In The Pocket)' the more direct of the two and the flip side 'Ain't It A Crime' (instrumental) going deeper.
Review: The on point Funk Night label returns with these raw and emotive jams from Rickey Calloway & The Tennessee Band. The tidy two track 7" opens with the raw soul jazz sounds of 'Everybody Say Yeah' with its blasts of horns, expressive vocals and rolling rhythm section all cutting deep. Flip it over for the slightly more loose feeling 'Mr Meaner,' an instrumental version with the backing singers left in place to inject some human warmth to the lo-fi grooves.
Review: The Brazil 45 series is pure gold for lovers of Latin sounds across the funk, jazz and soul spectrum. Each one sells out fats but usually emcees back around, as is the case with this 18th edition. It features Ely Camargo's 'Taieiras' from his Ely's 1972 album Cantos Da Minha Gente and is a lively folk-inspired track sampled famously by DJ Yoda in 2012. Despite recording 12 albums, Ely remains an enigmatic figure whose music is all we have to feed off. On the flip side, Rio sibling trio Trio Esperanca shine with their psychedelic gem from their 1971 self-titled album. Known for their stunning harmonies, the group released seven albums between 1963 and 1975 but this is one of their finest moments.
Review: More from the cheeky scamps behind the Disco Bits label, an imprint whose releases regularly blur the boundaries between re-editing, re-making and remixing. Here they welcome back imprint regulars Cannon & Mirrorball (we laughed, at least), who once again serve up two guaranteed disco floor-slayers. A-side 'Hot Lovin (Don't Stop, Don't Quit)' sits somewhere between disco-house and hip-house, with excitement-building raps lifted from vintage hip-hop cuts sitting atop a non-stop beat crafted from tooled-up elements from a celebratory disco favourite. As the title suggests, 'Shack Attack' cheekily blends elements from Banbarra classic 'Shack Up' and B-52s hit 'Love Shack', adding some other choice samples to create a tidy, well-made mash-up that sounds tailor-made for disco dancefloors.
Review: Periodica sublabel Serie Pegaso launched last year to carry further works from the network of artists related to the Italian groove stable. After a mini album from Rosa and an LP from The Funkin' Machine, the latest drop features a new project called Capinera. If you're into any of the sounds Periodica are known for, you're sure to find a lot to love about this sunny slice of synthy, yacht-ready disco funk. 'Il Volo' is nestled on the A-side in a swirl of smooth sax, mellow chords and a supremely laid back rhythm section. 'Suonno' on the flip has a slightly peppier step, but it's still chilled enough to keep from breaking a sweat. This is sophisticated party music, after all.
Review: The unequalled Soul Jazz label is serving up some monster funk this month and they don't come much bigger than these two cuts from Chuck Carbo. Opener 'Can I Be Your Squeeze' is a super catchy, break heavy and funk fulled party jam to destroy the floor. Written and produced by the celebrated Eddie Bo, it comes with big drums from New Orleans stick man James Black. On the flip is the ever so slightly more mellow but not less dance 'Take Care Your Homework Friend.' These have long been hard to find and now come pressed nice and loud on fresh wax.
Review: First released in 2009 through People's Potential Unlimited - the vintage funk and soul outfit operant out of Washington, D.C. - Cardell Funk Machine's 'Shoot Your Shoot' is a daring tease, dealing in candid soul thematics about taking chances, and/or asking, "what's the worst that could happen?". The first ever release by this alias of the avant-soul Chicago musician Cardell Harrington, 'Shoot Your Shot' was released in 2009 but may have been recorded even earlier; Cardell was said to have only been 19 at the time, allegedly laying it down in prominent soul producer Donald Burnside's studio. Backed by the 'lo-fi' halfstep number 'It's All Over', this is electric soul through and through, commanding a bare-boned but still brilliantly even, neon sonic keel.
Review: Guitarist Carl Holmes formed his band with The Commanders and recorded a full-length in 1962 for Atlantic, just a few years after first started gigging. He later went on to record for the Parkway and Verve labels and even gigged with Jimi Hendrix, though never conveyed any of the sessions to tape. His group disbanded soon after in the late 60s and he then formed this one which was defined by its strong rhythm section. This is their only record and it's a classic bit of funk from smoking breaks to syncopated Latin-tinged jams and some more mellow magic in between.
Review: Hot on the heels of this one first being reissued back in May, it now gets a second run courtesy of Disques Messager out of France. Cristina Camargo's 'Moral Tem Hora' was one of the standouts from the super Brazilian Disco Boogie Sounds (1978 - 1982: selected by Junior Santos) compilation. It's a perfect fusion of Latin flair, Brazilian disco and jazz funk magic that has fat bass riffs and lots of bright chords and busy percussion next to a classic vocal. On the flip things get slower, sentimental and all loved up on 'Minas Do Rei Salomao' which his a perfectly steamy jam for those hot afternoons under the sun.
Review: Jean Carne was an underrated legend of disco and r&b music through the 70s and 80s and this reissue helps one of her gems back into the spotlight. On Side-1, the title track delivers a smooth, sensual slow jam that blends early 80s soul with subtle funk and electronic influences. Carne's vocal performance is nothing short of captivating, evoking both tenderness and passion in equal measure. Side-2 offers 'Heartache', another classy soul track that showcases Carne's ability to convey emotion through her rich, soulful and wide ranging vocal talents. The track effortlessly captures the smooth, seductive essence of early 80s r&b and boogie. Timeless rare grooves from yesteryear like this coming back around to be heard again is what makes reissues so important.
Review: Cee O Funk's latest double-sided release, 'Night With You,' is a brilliant example of the French touch in modern funk. The A-side features 'Night With You,' a sexy and electrifying track infused with electro funk vibes and highlighted by Mae Rojas's strong vocal performance. B-side 'Brazil,' offers a beachy electro funk experience that transports listeners to sun-soaked shores. Both tracks are masterfully crafted with analogue synths, adding a rich and authentic texture to the music. Cee O Funk continues to impress with their ability to blend classic disco funk elements with contemporary electrofunk influences.
Review: Mr Bongo take an MPB breather, tempering their recent larger-scale ambition to reissue mammoth Brazilian disco on comp with a 7" side order appetiser of a classic Brazilian MPB track. Celia's 'Na Boco Do Sol' ('At the Mouth of the Sun') is a gestalt slice of slow-samba, bringing with it a dash of torrid soul and telenovela cinematics. The favourite Arthur Verocai collaborator sings of psychic cities and imaginariums of the soul, verifying a well-travelled spirit; Verocai himself, and Vitor Martins, both lend the song a fuzzy phonic with their guitars and strings. And on the B side comes 'A Hora e Essa, the first track from her second self-titled LP: a lively samba-funk workout, doused in jazzy piano licks, strutting guitars and punchy horns.
Review: Two more rare grooves purloined from Cultures Of Soul's Brasileiro Treasure Box Of Funk & Soul and delivered on a sweet 45: Celia's "A Hora E Essa" is a steamy Latin funk workout from 72; all horns, cuicas and soft, honeyed vocals. Franco's "Ei, Voce, Psiu!" takes a more US funk idea with Franco's spoken vocals giving off a strong air of bandleader as the band lock down a tight groove beneath. Watch out for samba flip towards the end. Blink and you'll miss it.
Review: It's rare we hear reissues from those close to the original horses' mouths, but the work of G.U.S. Records is an exception. Run by vinyl and tape collector Gustavo C., the aim of the imprint is to re-release the soul, funk and early proto-electro of artists from Detroit whose music had only circulated in unreleased demo form. Mainly focusing on funk and boogie, '80s music abounds; notwitshstanding two former releases from rather unrecognised names, their third is a mega-rare single from Central Line. 'Love Will Find It' and 'Do You Remember' have never before seen the light of day, despite the four-piece band's long stint with the major label Mercury. The B-side is a favourite; a unusual slice of falsettoing boogie in triplet time.
Review: Robert Chandler's Experience My Love is a soulful gem that's been resurrected from obscurity. Originally released in 1986 on a rare white label by DJ Smokey Joe, the track quickly became a coveted collector's item, with only a handful of copies ever circulating. Produced by Steve Slavin, the single boasts a smooth, infectious groove and top-tier production that encapsulates the essence of 1980s soul. Featured on Side-1, Chandler's rich, emotive vocals, delivering a love song that resonates with warmth and sincerity. On Side-2 is the instrumental version, allowing the lush arrangement to shine on its own. This limited 7" reissue is a long-overdue revival of a track that never got the wide release it deserved. Rare groove and Soul fans should be excited about this one!
Review: The Charities return with another sweet soul gem on Nu-Tone with 'It's Your Turn' b/w 'Strangers.' Following the success of their debut 45, this release is poised to become another coveted piece for soul enthusiasts. 'It's Your Turn' reflects on overcoming adversity through karma, as described by vocalist Brock Van Pelt. Produced by Anthony Masino at Penrose Studios, these tracks have already proven their magic on the road with Thee Sinseers and The Altons. The first side delivers a soulful groove that uplifts spirits, while 'Strangers' offers a poignant, danceable experience. Both songs are sure to fill dance floors and mend broken hearts, solidifying The Charities' place in the modern soul scene. Please note: This version is coloured and the colours are randomly pressed and released from the manufacture. This is exciting to see what colours everyone gets!
Review: Hailing from sunny California, funk/soul/jazz crew The Charities bring heart and grit to a track that delves into the intoxicating pull of a love destined to implode. The song paints a vivid portrait of a desriable yet destructive partner whose charm conceals a narcissistic core. With sharp, emotive lyrics and a bittersweet melody, it yearns for the intensity of love's highs and the sting of its inevitable downfall. It's a classic tale of attraction turning to heartache, delivered with a raw authenticity that lingers. Their third single since forming, 'Fatal Attraction' might just be their best yet, while on the flip side, 'It's Not Our Time' shifts to a softer, more reflective tone. This bittersweet ballad explores the ache of love interrupted, as two lovers part ways with the hope that time and distance will lead to a brighter reunion. The warmth of the band's instrumentation, coupled with tender, heartfelt vocals, makes this track a touching counterbalance to the A-side's intensity. The Charities' ability to channel deep emotion through timeless grooves is soulful storytelling at its finest.
Review: First released in 1976 on Polydor, 'All Alone By The Telephone' is a lesser-sung sleeper hit by the Checkmates Ltd., but it hardly deserves this obscurity compared to their far more well-known hit 'Black Pearl', produced by Phil Spector. This one, to contrast, was produced by H.B.Barnum. It's a known go-to for DJs on the 2-step and modern soul scenes, but it's not the hype that counts; rather, the track's production is delectable, meting out near perfect harmony and balance to evoke the excruciating feeling of loneliness. 'Body Language', on the B, hears the band rested and recuperated from this isolated spell, and comes far funkier, more delightful.
Review: This new series brings forth a fusion of late 60s/early 70s Funky Rock Breaks from around the world, promising dancefloor action for Hairy B-Boys and Head-Banging Breakers alike. Side-1 kicks off with 'Good Thing Going (Put It On A Record),' blending guitar riffs, big beats, rock vocals, and rap phrases to ignite any party atmosphere. On the Side-2, 'Whole Lotta Drugs!' delves into the wild world of groupies and illicit substances, featuring an obscure brassy cover of a classic rock track with added beats and samples for a backstage after-party vibe. Released on limited edition purple and black vinyl, this series delivers a high-octane soundtrack for the upcoming festival season.
Review: Echi Chamber is reissuing the records is served up late last year because they were all so excellent they sold out. This one is from Cheeba's Latin Bros, a new Latin and boogaloo project from Si Cheeba who is a long-time vet' of the jazz and groove scene that was so big back in the 1990s in Manchester. Limited to just 300 copies, it features one tune spread across two sides of vinyl. 'New York Streets (part 1)' is a raw percussive hustle with big horns and impassioned funk vocals that never let up. Part two is a continuation of that same vibe with just as much raw, direct and percussive goodness to get lost in.
Review: Cheeba's Latin brothers are back with yet another Havanan shuffle, extensively vacationing in Cuba to soak in very best of the nation's ripest stylistic amassments. Taking cues from cut and paste funk to Latin boogaloo, 'Cuban Shuffle' and 'Pablo's Theme' urge us formerly to "keep it going, now" before latterly dropping us into a fuzz-scat vat of hazy brass and stomping, found percussion. Most notably, the A-side's vinyl scratches sate a pruritic itch, and a careful dosage of reverb marks out a roomy but expansive atmosphere, one difficult to recreate lest you actually were there in 1970s Cuba.
Review: Echo Chamber Recordings celebrates its first anniversary this month with a new release in the Boogaloo Lessons Series. This latest instalment comes in special hand-numbered orange vinyl 7" limited to 150 copies and features Cheeba's Latin Bros, who deliver exceptional boogaloo tracks as per usual. The A-side, 'One Step Beyond,' boasts infectious rhythms, powerful drum beats and dynamic fills. On the B-side, 'Set Your Soul Free' combines the energetic boogaloo vibe with a touch of soulful tenderness, featuring vibrant percussion and captivating, offbeat chords. This release promises to keep the dance floor moving and showcases the rich, rhythmic textures of the boogaloo sound.
Review: This month, Echo Chamber Recordings turns one year old and makes the occasion by offering dup another instalment in the popular Boogaloo Lessons Series. This one comes from Cheeba's Latin Bros who serve up boogaloo brilliance starting with 'One Step Beyond' which has some ass-shaking rhythms and plenty of big drum sounds, rolling fills and natty chords. On the flip, 'Set Your Soul Free' has a big boogaloo vibe still but also more tender soul vibes in amongst all the vibrant percussive shuffling and unbalanced chords.
Review: Cheeba's Prestige All Stars delivers a knockout punch with I Got You on this very limited 7" release from Echo Chamber Recordings. The Afro-Latin funk fusion hits hard with two versions of the track. The original version is a raw, high-energy cut featuring hard-edge drums, vibrant Charles Keynard keyboard samples, and powerful saxophone riffs. On the flip side, the instrumental version maintains the same intensity, with Prestige 10000 series-inspired elements adding depth to the groove. Both versions features the band's prowess in blending Afro and Latin rhythms with soul-jazz influences, making I Got You a wonderful 7" to treasure.
Review: Admittedly, we're as in the dark now about Cheeba's Prestige Allstars as we were when it first dropped last year, but it sold out so has done well. This reissue of the limited 7" release is a steamy blend of Afro and Latin funk. 'Dig This!' (vocal version) delivers a raw, energetic cut with punchy drums and lively James Brown samples, complemented by bold saxophone riffs. On the flip side, the instrumental version retains the groove, albeit slightly stripped back, maintaining the essence of James Brown's mic presence. While details about the band remain elusive, their music speaks volumes, offering a vibrant fusion of sounds that captivate dancefloors.
Review: We hold our hands up, we don't know anything about Cheeba's Prestige Allstars and cannot find much out either. Echo Chamber Recordings though have got them on this limited 7" and the music is a steamy mix of Afro and Latin funk that comes in two different versions. 'Dig This!' (vocal version) is a raw cut with plenty of hard-edge drums and James Brown samples that liven it up next to some big sax energy. On the back side is the instrumental which is only slightly paired back and still has lots of James Brown mic work.
Review: Cheeba's Prestige All Stars carries on strong with its cut-and-paste beats/soul edits series. 'I Got You' tops up the trailblazing, quickfire repertoire with a dust-caked window into the past, by way of well-crafted, surround-mixed breakbeats and a gritty gospel sample on the A. Complementary to this comes the instrumental, highlighting the fact that the fact that the vocal sample is indeed the cherry on top; it hardly 'needs' said vocal to convince the listener to dance, though it does round things out with utter finesse.
Review: 'Hard Times' is a mega rare outing from Chequers which they dropped back in 1983 at the height of popularity for this sport of sound. It's irresistible electro-boogie that will get you in a spin in no time. The squelchy bass, r&b vocals and withering sci-fi disco synths all bring real colour. Flip it over and you will find the equally stellar 'If You Want My Love'. This is the first time this one has ever been reissued by its Freestyle label. Don't sleep on this surefire party starter and underground classic.
Review: Robert Chini (pronounced keeney), a native of Southern California, is a multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter who began his musical journey as a drummer at the age of five. With a star-studded career as a touring member of many a famous band including Peaches And Herb, Tower Of Power and Air Supply, Chini's efforts have still yet to falter or fly under the radar; quite to the contrary, he's still going strong, currently performing as both a solo artist and studio operator. 'Doin' It all For You' was written and recorded in 1979, while the B-sider here, 'Everlasting Love', was written and recorded three years earlier. Both songs hear Chini sing of commitment and dedication to love, narrating a journey from internal preoccupation with the self to finding a sense of eternity in devotion to another.
Review: Wild Cards serves up a new 7" from a band about which we know nothing of note. The Cnthonics are good at laying down timeless funk sounds, though, with great instrumentals though defining their sound. Up first is the playful sax-led sound of 'Persephone On Rollerskates' which snake-charms its way into your affections. 'Chthonic Rock' on the flip is a brilliantly bizarre fusion of drums, melodies, percussion and whistles that is lo-fi and high class. Super limited to just 300 copies this one so do not miss out on these funky breaks.
Review: The Selector Series has pulled out a big one for this year's Record Store Day celebrations. Both of these tunes are imagined classics reimagined that have a fresh West Coast jazz-funk feel and arrive on 45rpm together for the first time. The A-side has a rocky feel and is a version of The Beginning Of The End's 'Funky Nassau', while over on the other side Isaac Hayes' 'Shaft' gets a new psychedelic twist. This pari of covers by The Chuck Boris Trio are as brillaint as they are obscure and will cost you well over three figures if you can find an original. Both are remastered for this 7".
Review: It might be getting cold and dark and wet here in the UK but music will always be able to transport us to warmer, sunnier, happier climes. And so it is with this new 7", which includes a booklet, from Discodelic. It's a two tracker from Cizana and La Nueva Generation that is flame hot and bristling with energy - Cizana's 'She Sold Her Soul' kicks off with its joyous flutes, hand drums and percussive Latin grooves then La Nueva Generacion slow things down and up the brass with their carnivalesque Afro-funk workout 'Uhru Sasa'.
Review: 'I'll Keep Loving You' and 'No Use Hidin' from Class of '78 are delightful boogie-funk gems that capture the essence of early '80s music. 'I'll Keep Loving You' is an upbeat love song with a groovy disco-funk vibe, perfect for energizing any lounge or dancefloor. The track's spacey elements and lively rhythm create a vibrant atmosphere. 'No Use Hidin' complements it with its blend of funk, lounge, and new wave influences, offering a slightly edgier but equally danceable tune. Both songs highlight the group's talent for creating infectious melodies and rhythms, making this 7" a fun and essential addition for fans of the era's boogie-funk sound.
Review: Written by James Ernard, 'How Close' is a poppy funk track with as much history as killer synths. Written after his previous Ohio-based group Perfect Element declined opening for Prince on tour, Ernard left to set up his own label (which met a similar end as he and co-founder Kennith also had a falling out over creative differences). 'How Close' is a sensational piece of 80s American pop history, with a killer synth line and earworm vocals that'll have you shaking your hips before even realising. Side B has a nippy little remix by an undisclosed producer (which is sometimes the case with such niche pieces of history), that nonetheless breathes even more life into such a colourful track. It's often the 7" records that tell us the full history of the music industry behind the scenes at that time, and this release is no different - a perfect addition to that niche 7" collection you've been building up...
Review: 'Deixa Eu Dizer' is a timeless Brazilian classic that was famously sampled by Marcelo D2 on his iconic hip-hop track 'Desafabo' and maybe just as notary, it was also the debut release on Mr Bongo's now much loved Brazil 45's imprint. It originally featured on Cizinha's stunning album of the same name and until Mr Bongo stepped in it had never been available on a 7". 'Deixa Eu Dizer' has been a long-standing favourite with deep diggers despite its mysterious origins and this welcome reissue not only celebrates Cizinha's unforgettable contribution to Brazilian music but also brings this beloved track to a new generation.
Review: It's always a buzz to see a new Athens of the North 7" drop onto our shelves. This first drop of the year comes from label regulars Coast to Coast who had their unreleased and self-titled soul album reissued here back in October 2021. It is the opening track from that glorious record that gets its own pressing on 45 rpm here with an instrumental on the flip. The original from core members Mark Beiner and Ben Iverson, 'Love Is The Same' has glorious vocal falsettos and super sweet rhythms that bring feel-good vibes like no other.
Review: East St. Louis soul singer Raye Cole is on the cusp of big things, having been picked up through talent scouting competitions and drawing praise from high places. Following a debut split single with Rachel Maxann last year, she's back on Original Gravity with her own outing, a hard-stepping, raunchy funk jam which serves as the perfect vehicle for her raw, righteous voice. As well as the slightly naughty original version of 'I'm A Lady' on the A side, there's also a tastefully censored 'Radio Version' on the flip in case you need to be mindful of your audience. Whichever version you plump for, the sass in those horn stabs tells the listener all they need to know.
Review: The rare Stephen LP by Nassau-born multi-instrumentalist Stephen Colebrooke offers elusive sunshine boogie vibes that have long been sought after by those in the know. Recorded at GBI studios in Freeport with guidance from Frank Penn (of Grand Bahama Goombay), two of the tracks from it now get pressed up to this crucial 7" by the faultless Numero Group. Both of these tunes are groove-filled disco delights with both 'Shake Your Chic Behind' and 'Stay Away From Music' sure to do damage on a wide range of dance floors this summer and beyond.
Review: Collins And Collins were originally at the Top Of The Stairs back in 1980 when this one first landed. It has since become a revered underground classic much loved on the modern soul circuit as a timeless gem. The song was first composed by Ashford & Simpson who recorded their own version but when playing live would switch to the Collins & Collins version. The tune first came on CD via Expansion back in 1993 and now gets a first official 7" version back with the exceptionally rare version of Gamble & Huff's 'You Know How To Make Me Feel So Good' which first was recorded by Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes in 1975.
Review: Pressed for the first time on 7" vinyl, two killer rock club tracks from the legendary Colloseum, track 1 and 2 from their sophomore 1969 album 'Valentyne Suite' - 'Elegy' and 'The Kettle'.
The powerful and up-tempo 'Elegy' is a funky love song, with steaming guitars and heavy groove, an absolute home run of a funky club banger. On the flip is the 'The Kettle', featuring a heavy rock groove that the attentive ear will recognise as sampled by Fatboy Slim for 'Ya Mama'.
Review: Remarkably, the Commodores 'Assembly Line' has never before featured on a 7" single - officially, at least - despite the track's killer drum-break being a long-time favourite of B-boys and B-girls. Helpfully Dynamite Cuts has decided to offer-up this fully licensed "45" pressing, backing the superb, life-affirming and organ-heavy funk-soul cut with another track from the band's 1974 album Machine Gun. 'Gonna Blow Your Mind' is an even heavier, weightier and more floor-friendly affair, with the legendary Motown combo adding energetic vocals, crunchy Clavinet lines and spacey synthesizer sounds to a super-heavy, Blaxploitation funk style groove. In a word: essential!
Review: Discodelic comes correct again with a new 7" that features a pair of rather lesser-known and brilliantly obscure Latin psych-rock gems. Conjunto Raza' 'African Dream' is all crackly and immediately nostalgic because of it, with noodle acoustic guitar sounds making way for a more upbeat and driving 60s garage rock sound but all in loveable lo-fi. Add in a red-hot vocal and you have a flame cut full of funk. On the reverse, The Scepters 'Message' is another well-aged jam that brings rawness and emotion in equal measure.
Review: The Scepters, formed in 1967 in Paraiso by guitarist Celso Spencer, were a popular Panamanian band known for their energetic performances across military bases and high school dances in the Canal Zone. Alongside Lionel Best and Jose James, they covered Top 40 hits and iconic rock bands like Santana and Jimi Hendrix. They released two 45s, including 'Message,' which debuted at Panama's first National Soul Music Festival in 1971 and features next here to a jam from Conjunto Raza, another project led by Agustin Leiro, this one with rotating musicians. They released a single 45 on Onda Nueva in the mid-70s and it blends Zonian and Panamanian talent with aplomb.
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