Funk

Review: Dynamite Cuts continue in their mission to share jazz, funk and soul deep cuts with the world, this time pulling a timeless gilded funk rabbit out of their hats. Gregory James Edition took on the collective mantle of "Prophets Of Soul" at the moment of their 1973 debut, which would only then be followed by the 1979 record Gonna Grow Some Gold before an eventual disbandment. A shame, since 'Ain't No Sunshine' and 'Changing Things' stand out as the record's finest offcuts; the first track uses its various clavinets and Farfisa Combo organs to estrange an existingly capricious funk sound, rendering it rather odd, alien, spacious. 'Changing Things' contrasts with upswells of gushing piano set to a funk backbeat, which come yet measured by an admirable key change control, again held down by lead player Gregory Bibb.

Review: On limited reissued 7" comes the title track from The Lost Generation's 1973 debut album. The Chicago soul/r&b group formed in the early 1970s amid irruptive uncertainties and changes in the USA. Their name reflected this anxious mood, and their music drew on many similar emancipatory subjects and projects, bottling the tense, civil fronts formed between American communities in the 1960s. "Fighting, crying, bleeding, dying" resound in call-responsive bel canto on this lead album cut, which grieves the losses and disenfranchisements suffered during the Civil Rights era. With a horizon-gazing front cover and burgeoning sound, this irrefutably hopeful soul anthem suggests all is not lost.

Review: Dynamite Cuts lives up to its name once more by unearthing a deep funk treasure here, and they do the right thing and serve it up for the first time ever on its own 7". Sound Investment's 'Funky Skunk' is a raw and rhythm-heavy rarity previously confined to album-only status. It's bursting with tight grooves, gritty breaks and irresistible energy and is a dream for DJs, collectors and crate-diggers. On the B-side, 'Dirty Man' keeps the heat alive by delivering more deep-fried funk goodness. Both cuts showcase the band's raw musicianship and groove-driven spirit. Authentic funk vibes don't come much better than this.

Review: A rare groove treasure trove from Sweet Charles, this new collection brings together three standout tracks that are sure to delight collectors and fans alike. First up is 'I Like It Like That,' making its vinyl debut after years of anticipation. Then there's 'Soul Man,' originally released on a 7" styrene pressing back in the 70s and now ready for a fresh spin. Rounding out the set is the sunshine club anthem 'Yes It's You,' a bona fide mover that still lights up dancefloors. For rare groove aficionados, this is a must-have release, capturing Sweet Charles at his soulful best.

Review: The reissue of Ike White's 'Changin' Times' brings a rare soul treasure from 1976 back to life. On Side-1, 'Changin' Times', is a low-key funky gem, its understated groove and soulful depth capturing a timeless beauty. Flip to Side-2 and 'Love & Affection' takes the spotlightia vibrant, funk-infused track with echoes of Stevie Wonder's iconic 'Superstition' taken from Ike's full length release. Its forward-thinking soul grooves blend seamlessly with funky rhythms, making it a standout piece that feels both nostalgic and ahead of its time. This 7" packs a punch with its perfect balance of understated charm and bold musicality.