Back catalogue: Funk

Review: New-gen rare groove band Nautilus, operating out of Japan, deliver their latest 7" record, 'Life'. Just two crisp, piquant, fresh, and bubbly uncorkings in sound - 'Life', featuring vocalist Emi Tawata, and the instrumental 'Master Blaster'- are here heard sprayed like buckshot across the stereo system. The former is a candid admission by Tawata of her fear of the dark and ghosts, one which compels the listener to ponder the song's spiritual metaphor - "I'd rather have a piece of toast, watch the evening news" being the lyric of note - while the latter is a comparatively muted four-to-the-floor funk inflammation, held together by a phat but tricksy drum line and overgirding Rhodes.

Review: With an irresistible blend of broken beat and nu-jazz grooves, 'Chameleon' is a enjoyable smooth jazz gem driven by funky basslines, strings, lively percussive and catchy keys. The arrangement flows effortlessly, creating a sound both sophisticated and danceableia perfect balance of complexity and accessibility. Flipping to the B-side, 'Losalamitoslatinfunklovesong' takes a more laid-back approach. Led by a warm, soulful organ, the track exudes chill vibes with its subtle funk underpinnings and jazzy finesse. The addition of a vocoder adds a playful, retro-futuristic charm, rounding out a composition that's as soothing as it is engaging.

Review: Japanese jazz, funk and rare groove sensations Nautilus share their latest cover version, this time of Bobby Caldwell's 'What You Won't Do For Love'. This version stars Toshiyuki Saki on guest drums and vocalist Ruto Kasahara on vocals, bringing a digressional arc to Nautilus' usual sound. On the flip comes another rerub, this time of Nautilus' own 'Love Theme From Spartacus', from their latest album, remixed by producer Kenichiro Nishihara, which incorporates a light-hearted and feathery jazz-hop verve.

Review: The 7" single 'Peixeira Amolada e Quebra Queixo' b/w Mariposa Tigre offers a unique blend of Brazilian musical influences. "Peixeira Amolada e Quebra Queixo" draws on two cultural symbols: the sharp knife and a traditional Angolan candy, symbolising both struggle and direct action. For the first time, the band uses guitar, weaving it into a groove full of counter-melodies, representing daily battles for survival in Brazil. 'Mariposa Tigre' blends funk, ethno-groove, and jazzy brass with a reggae-infused twist, creating an irresistible rhythm. Both tracks showcase inventive musical structures with a surprising flair, leaving the listener eager for more.

Review: The Natural Yogurt Band, purveyors of enigmatic library music, return with their eighth release, a cosmic odyssey that pushes the boundaries of their signature sound. Joined by keyboardist Huw Rees aka The Oracle, the band ventures into a richer galaxy of sonic exploration. 'Projections' sets the stage with its warped organs and gritty drum breaks, while 'Altered States' and 'Bio Morphic Patterns' delve deeper into the cosmic unknown, their swirling melodies and hypnotic rhythms evoking the vastness of space. 'Messages' and 'Nebulous' offer moments of introspection, their ethereal textures and ambient soundscapes creating a sense of otherworldly wonder. On the flipside, 'Perception' and 'Poly Morph' continue the exploration, their pulsating rhythms and experimental soundscapes challenging the listener's perception of reality. 'Existence' and 'Dimensions' close out the journey, their expansive sounds and philosophical undertones leaving a lasting impression. This is a must-listen for those seeking a unique and thought-provoking musical experience.

Review: Paul Ngozi's 99% Confusion represents a powerful chapter in the history of Zamrock, a vibrant music scene that emerged in 1970s Zambia. This late-period hard rock and proto-punk album, featuring drummer Chrissy Zebby Tembo, shows Ngozi's enduring influence in the Zamrock movement. The LP comes with an oversized eight-page booklet filled with rare photographs, a detailed discography, and insightful annotations, providing a deeper understanding of Ngozi's musical journey. Zamrock itself was a unique fusion, blending fuzz-driven psychedelia, raw garage rock, and energetic funk with traditional African rhythms. This distinctive sound, cultivated by bands like Musi O Tunya, Amanaz, and Ngozi Family, stood apart from anything else on the African continent. 99% Confusion, released under license from Paul Nyirongo's estate, is part of Now-Again's ongoing effort to preserve and reissue these vital records. This album continues to showcase Ngozi's pivotal role in shaping the Zamrock legacy.

Review: Nomade Orquestra's long-awaited Terceiro Mundo marks the culmination of a conceptual cycle for the Sao Paulo collective. This fifth studio LP is a powerful journey of resilience, conceived during the challenges of the 2020 pandemic. The album's eight tracks weave together a sonic patchwork that merges revived older ideas with fresh, pandemic-era compositions. The record brings the trilogy of instrumental releases to a close, with grooves and energetic beats drawing heavily on funk and soul influences. Brass sections add intensity, while flutes and ethnic instruments infuse global flavour. It's a soundscape-driven experience, transporting listeners without ever leaving their surroundings. Released via Nublu Records, Terceiro Mundo reflects Nomade Orquestra's distinctive approach to Brazilian instrumental music. Their performance, recorded live, captures a raw, almost collage-like energy that defines the album's eclecticism. The title, inspired by third-worldism, mirrors their journey through adversity with a sense of hope and conviction, celebrating their past while looking towards new creative horizons.

Review: Soichi Noriki's debut album Noriki (1983) showcases a polished blend of City Pop and jazz fusion, characterised by lush production and smooth, professional instrumentation. The album hits all the right notes for fans of the genre and does not lack the adventurous spirit found in Noriki's later esteemed work like Dream Cruise. Tracks like 'You Need Me' and 'Anyway' feature Yurie Kokubu's excellent vocals. 'Do What You Do' also provides a opportunity for her talent to shine. 'Black Duck' adds an edge with its distinct bass and brass sections, while 'Rag Box' stands out with its brisk tempo. Overall, the album excels in technical mastery, offering slick solos and pristine arrangements. Noriki is an enjoyable listen with many moments of excitement.