Review: Budde & Osti of 100 Records presents an experimental "playground" that offers listeners a unique perspective on their work. The sizzling six-track EP blends jazz and house and features experimental highlights from the Trash Archives, which is a collection of 99 tracks available for free on Bandcamp. All pieces were recorded live in the studio utilising, on the whole, analogue gear that best shows off the duo's raw and unfiltered creativity. From the opening jazz dance of '40' to the closing jazz-funk-techno of '57' this is a beguiling collection.
Review: Joe Armon-Jones brings a fresh layer of depth to his ever-evolving sound with 'Sorrow', a track that takes its time to breathe, much like a slow unfolding narrative. The piece moves with a deliberate grace, weaving together his distinctive jazz-infused piano work with an underlying electronic pulse. It starts subtly, slowly layering textures that push the track into deeper emotional terrain. The interplay between live drums and ambient synths creates a fluid yet focused atmosphere, reflecting the introspective mood the title suggests. With 'Sorrow', Armon-Jones proves once again that he is unafraid to let his ideas mature at their own pace, leading listeners through a rich, captivating experience.
Review: Indonesia-based Babon was founded in 2023 by longtime friends Wahyudi T. Raupp and Rayi Raditia and craft instrumentals addressing environmental issues. Their sound fuses Melbourne's vibrant music energy with dangdut rhythms, gamelan percussion, and melodic keroncong folk styles. Here they debut on Batov Records with the wonderful 'Tropical Desert Music' which blends Indonesian traditions with Afro-Latin funk, Morricone-inspired grooves, Bollywood breaks and blues. It's the sort of sound that is perfect for fans of Khruangbin or Sababa 5. The A-side 'Desert Rose' is a spaghetti blues anthem, while the flip 'TNT' tells a miner's tragic tale through cinematic, explosive instrumentation.
Review: Cheb Bakr's latest release reflects the rich interplay of North African tradition and modernity. Rooted in rhythmic Arabic melodies, the tracks blend warm, soulful instrumentation with a contemporary edge. The production draws from Libyan pop's energetic pulse, merging traditional sounds with subtle nods to r&b and hip-hop. This is a striking example of how regional influences can be reinterpreted for new audiences while retaining their cultural depth and vibrancy.
Review: BBC Radio 6Music favourites Tom Ravenscroft and Nemone are already backing +33JOY's The Wellness Remixes, a year on from Bopperson & Bikbaye's original Wellness Project. This 12-inch release sees four UK-based producers reimagine the message for the dancefloor. Frankson brings an atmospheric, found-sound collage, perfect for closing sets, amplifying Bikbaye's powerful words. K15 takes 'Consumption' deeper, blending Rhodes melodies with shuffling percussion and sub-heavy basslines. Titeknots flips 'Changes' into a tropical journey, all hypnotic guitars and infectious grooves. Michael J. Blood wraps things up with a 15-minute, cavernous techno stomper, pushing boundaries and commanding the B-side in style.
Review: The Space Grapes return with a 12" EP from the Italian trio Collettivo Immaginario which is made up of LA-based drummer Tommaso Cappellato, pianist Alberto Lincetto and bassist Nicolo Masetto. Known for their experimental fusion of eclectic jazz, funk, downtempo beats and vintage Italian library music, this release marks a fine exploration of Italian vocals. The A-side, 'Luce' features a vibrant mix of 80s jazz-funk and boogie in an extended, energetic version. On the B-side, 'Luna Gioia' presents a contemporary take on downtempo Brazilian funk and slow disco complemented by an instrumental version that highlights the music's intrinsic beauty.
Review: Sam Cooke's iconic civil rights anthem 'A Change Is Gonna Come' was deservingly named one of Rolling Stone's greatest songs of all time and this year it celebrates its 60th anniversary. To honour the milestone is this limited edition 7" white iridescent vinyl featuring the original mono single mixes of that as well as 'Shake'. Recorded in January 1964 and included on Cooke's Ain't That Good News, the single was released posthumously in December 1964 just two weeks after Cooke's death as the B-side to the Top 10 hit 'Shake.' It remains as relevant as ever.
Review: Dangerous Goods bring fresh energy to I Travel to You with 'Wish,' reshaping a 2001 r&b track through the lens of street soul. The A-side thrives on a punchy bassline, crisp 808 drums, and a newly recorded vocal, giving it a sleek, modern flair. For the Deepest Dub mix, the track slows down, cut to tape and drenched in the bass-heavy influence of late 80s and early 90s breaks. It's a dual homage, blending nostalgic grooves with bold, contemporary production.
Review: Michael Diamond is the Indian-born UK artist who is co-founder of the Vasuki Sound label and club night. He is known for his 'jazzed electronic' sound in which he blends academic insights with musical creativity. His background in music perception and cognition, which he studied at Oxford while pursuing Medicine, shapes his unique approach. On his new EP 'Placid Wakefulness', Diamond collaborates with renowned musicologist Professor Eric Clarke to explore how music impacts sleep and wakefulness. The tracks blend ambient calm with energetic rhythms and are a fine example of Diamond's distinctive sound and deep understanding of neuroscience and music.
Review: UK-Irish label Battle Weapons do exactly what their name suggests, releasing slab after slab of proverbial sonic weaponry for use on the dancefloor come warground. Here the outfit welcome two seasoned names, DJ LBR and DC's Finest, for 'Let Me Clear My Funk' and 'Can I Have It Like Wack'. The first is a hilariously hung slab of cutup goodness, mashing up a live recording of DJ Kool, Biz Markie and Doug E. Fresh's 'Let Me Clear My Throat' with the central lick-groove of Cheryl Lynn's 'Got To Be Real', among other crowd-jeering follow-ons. Then the B moves bustlier and heavier on the ride cymbal sizzle, with vocal sampleage from Pharrell Williams' 'Can I Have It Like That' together with some super-real big band bravado.
Review: For fans of classic soul like Lee Fields and Bobby Oroza, Kelly Finnigan's latest 45 is a pure delight. On the A-side, an upbeat Northern soul-inspired track from A Lover Was Born pulses with raw emotionisyncopated guitars and brass-powered intensity back Finnigan's story of a love in crisis. The B-side adds a bonus cut, evoking the 60s soul vibe of Stax Records with a deep, minor-key groove. Here, gospel-tinged harmonies and moody horns underscore Finnigan's heartache, capturing a timeless feel with modern passion.
Review: Hot on the heels of his acclaimed sophomore album A Lover Was Born, Kelly Finnigan makes a quick return with this soul-packed 7". The A-side, 'Get A Hold Of Yourself,' is a Northern soul-inspired stomper that channels the raw emotion of Memphis soul with heavy drums, syncopated guitars, bold horns and Finnigan's impassioned vocals. It tells the story of a rocky relationship where emotional strain disrupts physical connection then the B-side is a fresh bonus cut from the A Lover Was Born sessions inspired by Barbara & The Browns' Stax classic 'Hurts Me So Much'. It's a moody groove with gospel-infused vocals.
Review: Aretha Franklin's soul anthem 'Respect' is arguably a record that doesn't need tampering with, though over the years there have certainly been some successful revisions - not least a B-More inspired take that dominated clubs in the early 2000s. On this single-sided 12", Matt Early and Lee Jefferies deliver their 'Expand Your Mind' remix - a funky, chunky and driving house interpretation that loops up key sections of Franklin's familiar vocals over a bed of bustling beats, rubbery bass guitar, warming chords and mazy, P-funk style synth solos. Throw in some well-crafted breakdowns and build-ups and you have a guaranteed winner that shows plenty of respect (sorry) to the peerless original.
Chain Reaction (DoctorSoul You Can't Fake It - extended Re-Therapy) (6:49)
When Sly Calls (DoctorSoul Don't Touch That Phone - extended Re-Therapy) (5:33)
When Sly Calls (DoctorSoul' Don't Touch That Phone - radio Re-Therapy) (3:45)
Review: Second time around for Doctor Soul's terrific reworks of cuts by yacht rock, AOR, quiet storm and West Coast rock legend Michael Franks, which originally appeared - and rapidly sold out - earlier in the year. First to get the (virtual) scalpel treatment is 1977 jazz-rock treat 'Chain Reaction', which Doctor Soul brilliantly turns into a loose-limbed, hip-hop-break-driven slab of extended yacht rock sunshine. Arguably even better is his extended take on sun-splashed 1985 jazz-funk/jazz-fusion gem 'When Sly Calls (Don't Touch That Phone)', which Doctor Soul lightly toughens up while respecting the original's fine groove. Also included is a shorter radio-friendly re-edit of the latter rework, which is handy for those whose audiences demand short cuts and quick mixes.
Review: GE-OLOGY's 'Freee Man' plays with the soulful richness of disco, reworking its elements into something that feels timeless and bold. The A-side 'LateNight Extended Mix' stretches the groove, balancing its shimmering layers with deep basslines and crisp percussionia track destined for both intimate sets and expansive dancefloors. The B-side 'Streeet Fever (NightSweat Mix)' pulls in funkier elements, fusing tight rhythms and a subtly modernised edge while respecting its vintage roots. Hot Biscuit Recordings presents a release that pays homage to the genre's legacy while sounding unapologetically freshiperfect for selectors who value depth and groove.
Review: Soul Service is a new label from the Atlanta-based party crew of the same name. For their first trick, they enlist the fine sounds of Italian Afro house and disco man Gledd, who shows his skills across blends of Latin, jazz, house, and world music influences. 'Jazz Con Sabor' opens with lots of frosty cymbals and big horn stabs over shuffling drums, then 'Dile' has a more playful and funky skip to it that soon infects your soul. 'No Lo Quiero Saber' (Latin mix) is deeper, more percussive and packed with sunshine from the expressive vocals.
Review: 'Suite For Chick' is a heartfelt tribute to the late jazz legend Chick Corea. This 12" was assembled to reimagine classics like 'City Gate, Rumble,' 'Time Track,' 'Hymn of the Heart' and Return to Forever's 'Romantic Warrior.' It finds Bangkok-based Maarten Goetheer collaborating with Thailand's jazz virtuoso Pong Nakornchai and blending Wurlitzer chords, Moog basslines, ARP leads and Rhodes phasings. Inspired by his jazz-pianist father, Maarten fuses classic jazz with modern genres like techno, cosmic disco and ambient for a fresh take on jazz fusion. These electrifying interpretations honour Corea's pioneering legacy in jazz and fusion from his groundbreaking work with Miles Davis to founding Return to Forever.
Review: The iconic soul anthem receives a fresh spin in the Lockdown remix, offering a vibrant, dancefloor-ready twist on the beloved classic. The remix maintains the smooth, emotive essence of Al Green's original while injecting a pulsating, upbeat rhythm that elevates the track to modern club standards. The seamless blend of lush instrumentation and contemporary beats enhances the groove, making it irresistible for both longtime fans and new listeners. This 12" version brings a fresh energy, keeping the soulful heart intact while adding a dynamic, infectious edge that's perfect for today's dancefloors.
Desolate Place (Find Me) (feat Queen Sherine) (4:29)
Intertwined Cultures (feat Akeem) (4:48)
Haseebs (feat Haseeb Iqbal - interlude) (1:03)
Desolate Place (feat Queen Sherine - Ancient dub) (5:35)
Intertwined Cultures (feat Akeem - dub) (4:30)
Review: Last Nubian's debut for Eglo Records is a soulful, jazz-infused celebration of London's rich diasporic culture. With 'We Celebrate Us', the Brixton-based producer crafts a sonic journey that spans from deep house to broken beat and UKG, rooted in the legacy of Black British dance music. Collaborating with a diverse range of vocalists and poets, the EP evokes everything from the introspective moods of West London's Broken Beat scene to the uplifting party energy of Soul II Soul. With tracks like 'Black' and 'Desolate Place', Last Nubian creates an intricate tapestry of sounds, capturing the essence of London's vibrant, multicultural rhythm.
Review: Jarrod Lawson's latest release pairs his soulful stylings with the dynamic vocals of Raquel Rodriguez in 'Next Move,' a nostalgic yet fresh r&b slow jam. Channeling the feel of classic 90s ballads, the track explores a charged intrigue between two strangers with a blend of innocence and allure. Years in the making, this collaboration reveals each artist's strengths, weaving a groove that feels timeless. Released via Dome Records, 'Next Move' is set to be a highlight of this year, merging retro influences with contemporary energy.
Review: Light's Out's 'Take It' comes on a special limited and numbered 7" via Soul 7/Jazzman and is a striking blend of raw soul and infectious rhythm. With its groovy, foot-tapping beat, the track channels the energy of 60s and 70s funk while showcasing the band's powerful, emotive vocals and tight instrumentation. Both tracks here are perfectly direct and packed with heat for any dance floor and bring such irresistible sounds that music lovers of all persuasions are going to be enamoured by what they hear.
Review: Like many of the best tunes from the Northern Soul era, this is a revered gem and a highly sought-after original which has been known to trade hands for well over 2000 English pounds. As such it is extremely collectible with both sides offering up monster tracks. 'Love Finds A Way' is a big raw lung buster with snappy drums and lush harmonies adding plenty of soulful warmth. On the flipside, 'I Need Some Loving' is another big one with all the right textures, rhythms and hooky vocals.
Review: An elegant fusion of deep house, jazz-funk and disco all showcasing the Japanese house producer's refined touch. Side-1's 'Sei-Un' is a sophisticated blend of jazzy piano melodies, funky undertones and soulful house grooves, creating a warm and inviting soundscape perfect for late-night sessions. The track's seamless integration of jazz elements with modern production highlights Loftsoul's craftsmanship. On Side-2, 'Brilliant Funk' lives up to its name with dynamic grooves and an infectious vocal presence that channels the vibrant energy of early 80s funk. Its polished arrangement and nostalgic vibe make it a great dancefloor cut. Together, these two tracks for a vibrant mix of funk, house and jazz music.
Review: Mad Black Latin Combo featuring Nick Kurusawa brings a delightful single with Say You Love Me Girl, released on Diguma Doughnuts from Japan. This 7" gem merges many styles and influences into one. On Side-1, 'Say You Love Me Girl' showcases a smooth and soulful blend of styles, highlighted by powerful vocal performance. It's a track that effortlessly bridges different musical influences, creating an engaging and catchy pop hit. Underneath it all, you have funk, salsa and disco all blending into a classy gem. Side-2 offers 'Say You Love Me Girl' (Mad Black Remix), which takes a more atmospheric and melodic approach. This remix transforms the track into a chilled-out, laid-back version, providing a fresh and relaxing alternative. This release combines energetic vibes with a smooth, sophisticated twist.
Review: Mako & Mr Bristow return with Stank Soul Edits Vol. 7, delivering two soul-infused sister-funk tracks. 'One Sweet Bomb' enhances the original's arrangement with added bass and drum elements, aligning it with the golden age of soul. On the flip side, 'Why Do You Bass Me Up?' transforms an uptempo funk pieceioriginally lacking a basslineiinto a dancefloor-ready banger, thanks to contributions from former Big Boss Man bassist, The Hawk.
This duo really know how to revitalise classic sounds for contemporary audiences.
Review: Mr Doris steps up with D-Funk Heat, a release that comfortably balances retro flair with modern groove. The production is sharp, with funky basslines that immediately grab attention, while the crisp drums and infectious synth lines keep everything fresh. Doris's ability to blend dancefloor-ready energy with nuanced musicality shines through, making this a record that's both playful and rich in its sonic textures. There's a sense of ease throughout, a laid-back confidence that invites listeners to move while staying fully immersed in the groove. It's a nod to the past with eyes firmly on the future.
Review: On the centenary of the birth of Luigi Nono, the Maurice Quartet - Georgia Privitera (violin), Laura Bertolino (violin), Francesco Vernero (viola) and Aline Privitera (cello) - reinterprets the composition for string quartet by the Venetian composer on the occasion of the 30th Beethovenfest in Bonn, in 1980. This limited edition (300) record hammers home the pensive, minimalistic innovations of Nono, considered a radical innovator in the classical music of his time.
Review: In 2024, over 30 years after its release, Incognito's 1991 hit 'Crazy For You' has been reimagined by ONEGRAM with a stunning new arrangement. It brings out the soul with gorge vocals and lazy dub drums providing a perfect counterpoint. The B-side brings a vibrant twist featuring a groovier rhythm, ONEGRAM's signature horn section and lively steel pan melodies that blend Caribbean disco and reggae vibes. Adding to the fun, the ET Edit on the B-side is tailored for DJs and enhanced with tasteful effects for an energetic finish. This fresh take breathes new life into a beloved classic that showcases ONEGRAM's infectious sound.
Review: Rose Noir's debut Beat Tape 01 was first released on Daddy Kev's Alpha Pup label and soon made waves in the LA beat scene. Known for championing groundbreaking artists like Flying Lotus and Ras G, Alpha Pup set the stage for Rose Noir's unique sound. Now you can cop a piece of this legacy with a limited-edition 7" featuring standout tracks from Beat Tape 01. There is noodle jazz-funk on 'Cowboy', low-slung backpacker beats on 'Differentak', stoned synth swirls and glitchy grooves on 'High' and lovely loose, broken beat tumbles on 'Bambino'.
Review: Harkit has put together this vital 7" reissue of a soulful treasure celebrating two standout acts from the golden era of rhythm & blues. Sam & Kitty and Johnny Sayles how up to deliver a stirring performance on 'I've Got Something Good' which is driven big, big raw horns and their heartfelt harmonies and rich vocal chemistry. They very much embody the passion of classic soul duos and on the flipside, 'I Can't Get Enough (Of Your Love)' exudes raw emotion and a sleazy, guttural vocal with a mix of orchestral horns and more intimate melodies over hard-edged and banging funk drums. Together, these tunes capture the essence of vintage soul and funk.
Review: Paul Sitter and Tony Lavrutz's collaboration on Eu e Meu Amor plays like a breezy stroll through sun-drenched sounds and smooth rhythms. Their work here pulls effortlessly from bossa nova and tropicalia, but without leaning too heavily on nostalgia. The production is tight and warm, with layered guitars and whispered vocals that could easily soundtrack a lazy afternoon. It's not overly flashy, but it doesn't need to be; the charm is in the simplicity, the way the melodies unfold and gently stick with you long after the record ends.
Review: Groovadelica is a New Zealand-based record label that comes through now with its third offering in the form of this 7" from young and fast-rising new artist Soul Prophet. His 'Back To Dilla' features the buttery tones of UK soul sensation Omar and pays tribute to the great beat maker that was the late J Dilla. It's a jam full of dusty beats and jazzy key samples with a laid-back and late-night feel. The lush flute sounds come from Nathan Haines with extra tabla for even more musical richness. This one has already been getting plays from the likes of Gilles Peterson, Patrick Forge and Mr. Thing so expect to hear it plenty more this winter.
Review: Strut rings in the holiday season with a special reissue of The Qualities' rare 1961 single 'It's Christmas Time' b/w 'Happy New Year To You!', originally released on Sun Ra's Saturn label. This mysterious vocal harmony group, guided by the visionary Sun Ra, captures a unique moment in music history. Likely recorded around 1956, the festive tracks showcase Sun Ra's influence, blending jazz and harmony group experimentation. Remastered and restored, this exclusive 7" features a new picture sleeve designed by Liam Large, making it a collector's item that celebrates both the holidays and Sun Ra's boundary-pushing legacy.
Review: Detroit's always innovative Wajeed returns to his own Dirt Tech Reck label with his last EP of the year. As always it blends soulful sounds, machine funk, authentic house groves and is sprinkled with vocals, trumpet and jazzy melodies that get at both heart and heel. Superb opener 'All The Way Thru' is laced with intricate samples and funk and soul drenched drums that will surely take it to anthemic status. 'Neptune's Symphony' is Wajeed's ode to the unknowns of space and 'Dry Hatin' is a track in which the artist addresses "my own nativity" with brilliant results.
Review: Jazz-funk twosome Zamie (Jadie Kiggundu AKA Ziggy Funk and pal Jamie McShane) impressed with their recent album, Fortuitous. On this EP, two of the set's most potent cuts have been given the remix treatment with club dancefloors in mind. Incognito main man Bluey handles side A, offering up a smooth, groovy and musically detailed take on 'Smash N Grab' that peppers a slap-bass-propelled groove with spacey synth pads, jammed out Rhodes stabs and all manner of life-affirming electric piano solos. Over on side B, Glaswegian veteran Al Kent takes 'Wildfire' down the disco, turning in a near 11-minute, Tom Moulton style rub rich in punchy synth-horns, snaking sax solos and spacey synth solos aplenty. Colourful, grown-up disco with a jazz-funk flex... more please!
Review: Made up of Jun Miyake and Ichiko Aoba's live sessions held in Tokyo in November 2016 and the following February 2017, Pneuma consists of valuable recordings that had only been released in high-resolution format for distribution; the record is now finally released in vinyl format here on P-Vine. The first performance in January featured Tatsuhisa Yamamotoon on drums and the second in February made up a quartet formation with the addition of bassist Hitoshi Watanabe. The two ultra-talented musicians provide us a glimpse into how the music of Jun Miyake and Ichiko Aoba is made and this record breathes into their practice a new life.
Review: Joe Bataan's 1968 sophomore album Riot! is considered a cornerstone of Latin soul and the record that truly cemented his reputation as the genre's king. Backed by the dynamic Latin Swingers band, Bataan masterfully blends Afro-Cuban rhythms, soul and funk with his signature streetwise flair. Tracks like 'It's a Good Feeling' and the title song capture the energy and emotion of late-1960s urban life while reflecting both personal and societal struggles. Its infectious grooves, raw vocal delivery and tight instrumentation mean that this one remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate across the generations.
Review: Munich-based classical guitarist and composer Jonathan Bockelmann made his mark in 2023 with his debut album Childish Mind. His journey into composition began with arrangements of pieces by Japanese maestro Ryuichi Sakamoto. These arrangements, which have previously been released digitally in three editions, are now available on vinyl for the first time. The record, presented in premium packaging with an embossed art print, showcases Sakamoto's diverse repertoire. It includes both lesser-known works like Suite for Krug and iconic masterpieces such as Bibo No Aozora. This release beautifully celebrates the timeless artistry of Sakamoto as reimagined through Bockelmann's exquisite guitar interpretations.
Review: Neville 'Breeze' McKeith is undoubtedly a legend of Black British music - albeit one not known to the majority of listeners. His CV is impressive; as well as being a founder member of jazz-funk outfit Light of the World, McKeith was also an integral member of Beggar & Co (known for disco hit '(Somebody) Help Me Out') and currently wields his guitar for The Brit-Funk Association. Unusually, this is only his second solo album, and arrives 41 years after his first. It acts as a showcase for his virtuoso guitar playing (he switches between lead, rhythm and acoustic guitar across the set), offering a mix of jazz-funk, fusion, contemporary jazz and soul songs and instrumentals. It's mostly new original material, but wisely McKeith has also included a handful of rather good interpretations of classic cuts.
Review: Caixa Cubo's latest release highlights the trio's effortless blend of samba-jazz, funk and MPB. Rooted in Brazilian traditions, the tracks carry grooves reminiscent of 1970s legends, yet feel distinctly modern. With rich keyboard harmonies, vibrant percussion, and basslines that lock into irresistible rhythms, the group bridges nostalgic warmth with contemporary flair. Each composition reflects a deep understanding of their heritage, drawing from carnaval marches and baiao while infusing experimental touches that keep things fresh.
Review: Since emerging in their home country a decade ago, Caixa Cubo have flitted between labels (most notably Heavenly Recordings and Jazz 'N' Milk) while establishing trademark sound that expands on the jazz-funk-meets-samba-jazz template created by fellow countrymen Azymuth (like that band, they're a trio based around drums, bass and organ/electric piano). Unsurprisingly, they've now found a home on Joe Davis's Brazil-focused Far Out Recordings, a stable that has done much to champion Azymuth in the UK. Modo Avia (air mode) is typically warm, breezy and gently tropical, fusing killer grooves and infectious, off-kilter rhythms with brilliant solos, infectious riffs and far-sighted musical flourishes. It feels like the sort of set that will be talked about in hushed tones in 30 or 40 years, and we can think of no greater praise than that.
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