New releases last four weeks: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: The Ethiopian Brothers transport you to a vibrant fusion world where Ethiopian jazz, Afro drums and funk all collide. Released in 1972, this single showcases the band's mastery of traditional Ethiopian rhythms intertwined with elements of Western funk and soul. 'Ashadwa' exudes infectious energy and is driven by lively brass sections and mesmerizing vocals weaved into the dynamic arrangements next to wah way guitars and steamy sax. It is a real dancefloor heater while a version comes on the flip without the vocals.

Review: Long Island's finest, the Lafayette Afro Rock Band, formed firstly as the Bobby Boyd Congress and then renamed themselves Ice; only after a string of travails and a return to the US after a long stint in France did they rename themselves the Lafayettes. Soul Makossa came a long while after this renaming; their second album is packed with the same Boyd-centric hallmarks, from bulbous Rhodeses, cowbells and wahs through to riffing funk fantastics, culminating in the peak sonic movements that are 'Hihache' and 'Nicky'.

Review: The Lafayette Afro Rock Band's superb Malik is a vibrant fusion of funk, soul and Afrobeat rhythms that was initially released in 1974 and now, alongside some of their other works, is getting reissued. The iconic track album showcases the band's infectious energy and dynamic instrumentation. It is packed with driving basslines, intricate percussion and hypnotic grooves that captivate from start to finish and transport you to the heart of a steamy dance floor. The band's mastery of blending African and Western musical elements shines through to make for an enduring musical document that is still widely celebrated for its infectious rhythms and influence on the funk and Afrobeat genres.

Review: Dele Sosimi, UK Afrobeat maestro and former member of Fela Kuti's band Egypt 80, keeps the stylistic flame well alive with his new LP, The Confluence, made in collaboration with The Estuary 21 aka. Sam Duckworth. Sosimi is usually heard focusing on the more eventidal moods of Afrobeat, asking the listener to imagine the genre in a more serene state of flow, in contrast to Kuti's original hip-swaying histrionics; his hedonic rancour. Following 2023's 'The Confluence' EP, the eponymous LP follows and hears the Hackney-born hero and the prolific pop producer team up for a multi-alias exploration, with Duckworth donning his alternate Get Cape Wear Cape Fly moniker many times throughout and flaunting the absolute best of his production chops.

Review: Analog Africa has repressed the highly valued and long since sold-out Congo Funk! Sound Madness From The Shores Of The Mighty Congo River: Kinshasa/Brazzaville 1969-1982. It is a compilation that superbly shows off the raw energy and funkiness of the Congolese rumba scene. This is the country that spawned such as legendary bands as African Jazz, OK Jazz and African Fiesta and it is said that the concert ahead of the legendary Rumble in the Jungle boxing match between Muhammad Ali vs George Foreman is what really set young hopefully musicians on their paths, after they saw James Brown play live. The story of those artists and the labels they released on in the ensuing years is what is told so well here across four sides of vital wax.

Review: Togo Soul 2 is a fantastic compilation of rare Togolese recordings spanning 1974 to 1989. This treasure trove captures the essence of Lome's vibrant music scene and blends traditional voodoo chants, soul, and electro funk. Despite challenges in locating tracks and rights holders, after eight years of perseverance, 13 gems were selected with the guidance of Roger Damawuzan. Featuring stars like Akofa Akoussah and Gregoire Lawani, these tracks showcase Togo's rich musical landscape amid political influences. With original albums commanding high prices online, this selection offers a glimpse into a golden era of Togolese music, celebrating diversity and innovation.