Back catalogue: Funk

Review: Dance, No One's Watching is a vibrant tribute to the joyous act of dancing and a night out from the anticipation of evening to the early morning hours. Written during Ezra Collective's whirlwind 2023 world tour, which saw them become the first jazz act to win the Mercury Prize, the album reflects the global dancefloors they experienced, from London to Chicago, Lagos to Sydney. Dance and rhythm unite us all, a spirit celebrated in these tracks. Recorded at Abbey Road studios, the sessions transformed into a live celebration with friends and family, adding a communal warmth to the music. The album features collaborations with Olivia Dean, M.anifest, Moonchild Sanelly, and Yazmin Lacey, who sings on the lead single 'God Gave Me Feet for Dancing.' This new album follows their acclaimed Where I'm Meant to Be, and continues to showcase Ezra Collective's innovative contributions to contemporary British music.

Review: The Last Poets, pioneers of revolutionary spoken word and proto-rap, return with a powerful new album that blends their fiery lyricism with the infectious rhythms of Afrobeat. 'Africanism' sees the legendary duo, Abiodun Oyewole and Umar Bin Hassan, collaborating with a stellar cast of musicians, including the late Tony Allen, Prince Fatty, and members of Seun Kuti's Egypt 80. The result is a potent and timely exploration of social and political issues, delivered with the same raw energy and uncompromising spirit that has defined The Last Poets' music for over five decades. Abiodun revisits classics like 'When The Revolution Comes' and 'Gash Man', their messages of social justice and self-empowerment still burning bright. Umar's 'Niggers Are Scared Of Revolution' and 'Just Because' remain as potent and provocative as ever, their unflinching commentary on race and inequality cutting through the noise of contemporary discourse. The album's musical landscape is equally captivating, with Tony Allen's polyrhythmic drumming providing a driving force, complemented by the soulful melodies and intricate arrangements of the contributing musicians. A powerful reminder of the transformative power of music and spoken word.