Back catalogue: Funk

Review: Nubian Crackers member The Undercover Brother (AKA veteran Queens, New York-based beat-maker Victor Piagneri) fires up his U.B.'s project and delivers another taster for the forthcoming "Ultimate Covers w/Breaks" LP. On the A-side you'll find his instrumental interpretation of Frederick Knight cut "Uphill Peace Of Mind", a heavy, stripped-back revision rich in killer drum breaks, Red Hot Chili Peppers style funk-rock guitars and life-affirming piano solos. Turn to the flip for Piagneri's vocal-free version of The Honey Drippers' 1973 anti-Nixon anthem "Impeach The President". He allows the track's much-sampled opening drum break a little more room to breathe, before carefully layering up Hammond organ riffs and a snaking saxophone solo that effectively replaces the original vocals.

Review: The UB's bring their particular brand of funk to this steamy and fiery new 7" on the Fraternity label. It finds them in edit mode and first up reworking 'Stone Fox Chase'. It has some country-style harmonica built into the raw beats and plenty of psyched-out guitar lines that bring Americana vibes to the percolating rhythms. On the flip is their edit of 'Delirium' which is a totally different proposition - smooth funk grooves with busy chords and icy hi-hats. It's one that looks to the stars and crushes there on a feelgood vibe you hope never ends.

Review: After much work, Berlin-based reissue label Matasuna Records is finally able to fully and officially reissue these funk classics. After so many bootlegged versions of these it is great to have a high-quality vinyl pressing on nice loud 7". Both of these legendary funk tunes come from the vast vaults of Atlantic Records and have never had their own standalone releases before. On 'Getting Uptown (To Get Down)' United 8 cook up infectious sounds and mix up horns, guitars, drums and bass while on the flip 'Sexy Coffee Pot' from 'Tony Alvon & The Belairs' is an explosion of raw funk energy.

Review: Universal Cave set out on a brand new cosmic spelunk. Flipping a pair of raucous Latin disco pancakes on a searing summer lowrider bonnet (in lieu of a non-stick pan), these free-range disco ovules pack much underfoot promise for the discerning dancefloor. The Philly collective kicks things off with the spry 'So Soft So Sweet', with an elusively sourced sing-along hook, blazing synth-gasms, and impulsive drums. 'Mishugina Mambo', on the other hand, gleans its inspirations from the classic Sofrito Specials series: bold horns fly in the face of relentless percs, urging everyone and your mother to get moving.

Review: Years after their 1970 sessions at Damon Studios in Kansas City, Bump & The Soul Stompers, under the direction of Jerald "Bump" Scott, adopted the name Unnatural Funk Band, a nod to the era's unconventional naming trends. Despite their efforts, "I Can Remember" failed to find a label. This led them to the famed Cavern Studios in Independence, Missouriiliterally carved out of a limestone cavern. The result is a fascinating juxtaposition of sounds: 'Living in the Past' offers a wistful, falsetto-laden journey with a laid-back narrative, evoking a nostalgic aura. In contrast, 'Strange Happenings' delivers a remarkable funk experience, revealing the band's prowess in crafting vibrant and innovative grooves. This track, a hidden gem from a virtually undocumented Kansas City soul ensemble, was uncovered with the help of Scott during the Numero Group's 2013 research for the Eccentric Soul: The Forte Label compilation. Unnatural Funk Band's release, featuring these previously unreleased tracks, represents a significant find for funk aficionados. The limited-edition 10" vinyl showcases their unique blend of nostalgic funk and innovative rhythms, a testament to the enduring impact of their music.

Review: A few years after recording at Damon Studios in Kansas City, Bump & The Soul Stompers-led by Jerald "Bump" Scott-rebranded as the Unnatural Funk Band. Unable to find a label for 'I Can Remember' they recorded at Cavern Studios, a unique space built in a Missouri limestone cave. Their track 'Living in the Past' features a nostalgic falsetto, while 'Strange Happenings' showcases a standout funk groove. This previously unreleased music was rediscovered with Scott's help during the Numero Group's research for the Eccentric Soul: The Forte Label collection, which now brings fresh attention to this rare Kansas City soul act.