Backatcha Vinyl & CDs

Review: This sought-after soul 7" reissue presents the downtempo lo-fi ballad 'Vibration Part Two' by Joe Brown and the Soul Elderados. Originally released in 1972 on F.F.A. Records, the track has become a favourite among collectors and fans of rare soul, with its raw, emotive sound and deep groove. Revered for its distinct vintage vibe, it has also been sampled by Roc Marciano for his track 'Dolph Lundgren'. A true gem of Atlanta's underground soul scene, now available once more for new listeners to discover.

Review: Robert Chandler's Experience My Love is a soulful gem that's been resurrected from obscurity. Originally released in 1986 on a rare white label by DJ Smokey Joe, the track quickly became a coveted collector's item, with only a handful of copies ever circulating. Produced by Steve Slavin, the single boasts a smooth, infectious groove and top-tier production that encapsulates the essence of 1980s soul. Featured on Side-1, Chandler's rich, emotive vocals, delivering a love song that resonates with warmth and sincerity. On Side-2 is the instrumental version, allowing the lush arrangement to shine on its own. This limited 7" reissue is a long-overdue revival of a track that never got the wide release it deserved. Rare groove and Soul fans should be excited about this one!

Review: This latest is a reissue of a Congress Productions EP featuring their seminal 'Neptune'. The much-sampled early 80s jazz-funk classic comes in original form next to two unreleased cuts. The first is a rare boogie cut 'Live It Up' that has been extended for more dancefloor heft having first been dropped under the D'aile' alias as a B-side. Then comes 'Kevin's Funk' which is named in reference to Incognito trumpet player Kevin Robinson, who played as part of a Congress-associated line-up for this session.

Review: When he moved to Germany in the early 1980s, Hudson People's Reg Hudson quickly connected with Johnny Davis - a funk and soul musician who had originally moved to the country in the 1960s while serving in the U.S Army. They recorded a string of tracks and albums together, though only a small number of these recordings were ever released. 'Expand Your Mind', a gorgeous, synth-enhanced, mid-tempo slab of "groove" music (a kind of warmer, more soulful and generally more organic-sounding sub-genre that sat somewhere between boogie and 80s soul), was one of those - though original copies are very hard to come by. This gem sits on side B of this issue, playing second fiddle to the previously unreleased 'Life's a Party' - a slap-bass, piano-solo-sporting slab of rubbery boogie/jazz-funk fusion.

Review: This reissue brings a fascinating piece of reggae history back to the light, showcasing a unique collaboration between Alton Ellis and Slim Smith. Recorded in 1971 at Chalk Farm Studios, this 7-inch single captures a moment of creative exploration and cross-cultural fusion. Side A features 'Sho-Be-Do-Be-Do (I Love You)', a mid-tempo soul duet where their voices intertwine in a display of effortless harmony and heartfelt emotion. Their performance blends soulful melodies with a distinctly Jamaican rhythmic sensibility. On the flip, Ellis takes the lead with 'Be True', a reggae-funk infused cut that highlights his versatility. The track is a testament to Ellis' ability to seamlessly blend genres. Originally intended for release on A&M Records, these tracks were part of a larger project spearheaded by producer Stanley Pemberton. This reissue sheds light on this intriguing chapter in reggae history and allows listeners to appreciate the artistry of Ellis and Smith in a new light. Their collaboration is a testament to their vocal prowess and their ability to create music that transcends cultural boundaries.

Review: Backatcha is on a superb run of releases right now with top tunes from Leonie and Learoy Green dropping around the same time as this stepping street soul gem from En to End. This is primo boogie from the late 80s now landing on 45rpm for the very first time. It's been taken from the tape archives of London singer-producer Tony Shand and kicks off with the vocal version of 'Nothing's Happening'. His rather deadpan vocal has an aloof kind of allure next to the squelchy bass and glowing keys. The instrumental strips it away to allow the retro production to shine.

Review: En-To-End's 'Money Talks' is an old school street soul classic from the late 80s. It's been reissued before by Backatcha Records but is an ever-green anthem so is also welcome back. This version comes with a yellow label on limited 12". And so to the tunes - 'Money Talks' is a low-slung groove with spoke-sung vocals and lush chord work. Also included is the brilliant drum work of 'I Still Love You' with its r&b vocals and irresistible groove. Instrumentals of each feature on the flip but the vocal versions really are the ones.

Review: 'Money Talks' by En to End is a street and soul disco classic from the end of the 80s. It's a real favourite here at Juno HQ and so whenever it reappears we're glad to see it. Right now Backatcha Records has got two versions available with a yellow label edition and this straight black label edition with slightly different versions. The tunes stand up, however, they are presented - two delightful slices of dance floor action with oodles of romantic vibes. 'Money Talks' (Sean P Special mix) is doused in vocal harmonies and glowing keys and on the back is the deeper, more sentimental 'Are You Gonna Be' with instrumentals of both on the flip side.

Review: Second time around for Hudson People's most celebrated single, 1979's obscure and suitably hard to find 'Trip To Your Mind'. The track was originally released on a couple of different labels, and mixes from both 12-inches are featured on this reissue. The 'Hit House' version, which we think was mixed by the band's leader and in-house producer, is a superb dancefloor jazz-funk epic rich in disco-funk licks, a driving groove, jammed-out electric piano lines, punchy horns, occasional vocal refrains and duelling rock and jazz style guitar solos. On the flip you'll find the breezier and arguably more club-focused remix by UK jazz-funk legends (and Funk Mafia members) Chris Hill and Robbie Vincent, a version that dubs out the vocals a little, prioritises the percussion and adds some superb sax solos.

Review: First released way back in 1982 but exceedingly hard to find ever since, Intrigue's 'I Like It' is a classic slab of Brit-funk era UK boogie whose lyrics playfully muse on craving cash when you have very little ("I really want your love but I'd rather have the money and I like it"). This Backactcha Records reissue features both versions from the original 12" - the EP-leading full vocal mix and the longer, more club-focused flip-side instrumental - as well as what appears to be a previously unreleased remix. This builds up brilliantly via drums and short rap sections before introducing the killer basslibe, pianos, synths and lead vocals. It's a fantastic and arguably more club-ready take on a much-loved but previously impossible-to-find Brit-boogie classic.

Review: Originally released in 1985 on Jo & Neville Carnegie's Brixton-based Dove Records, the wonderful 'Flying' returns on 12" and has been cut from the original master tape so could not sound better. Jo wrote the track while imagining the world from above and in an attempt to escape the tensions of war and political unrest. Amid Britain's lovers rock explosion, the song offered a breath of fresh air and truth be told, with so much raw still raging across the world, it still does. "Back in the day, sound systems would string up giant speakers, and that's when the dances were the best," Jo once recalled. This tune revives the spirit of an era when music provided solace and freedom and will help you soar high above the negativity of the times.

Review: Christine McNabb's UK lovers' 12" soul rarity, 'Love You / Combination', originally self-released in 1981. With backing vocals from Caron Wheeler, Black Slate's rhythm section and the in-house musicians at Eve Studios in Brockley, South London, this is a highly toned waft of steam; McNabb sings in a whistle register, insisting we're her one and only as she launches into a bopping improvisation near the midpoint, as an irresistible funk line chugs below, aplomb. 'Combination' is the name of the minimalised instrumental version: both tracks are standalone greats, and draw their inspirations from Afropop icons like Miriam Makeba, despite there being some crossover and cash-in on the emerging UK lovers' rock market.

Review: 'When Will The Day Come' and 'Within The Sound' both captivate with their ethereal nu-soul essence. The first track envelops listeners in a dreamy atmosphere, where each note feels weightless and every lyric resonates deeply. With a gentle sway, it explores the intricacies of life and the yearnings of the heart, inviting introspection and reflection. The title track offers soothing melodies that cascade effortlessly, creating a sense of calm and serenity. RASA's vocals effortlessly weave through the music, delivering poignant lyrics with a tender sincerity that touches the soul. 'Within The Sound' serves as a comforting embrace, guiding listeners through the complexities of existence with grace and poise. From its airy instrumentation to its heartfelt lyrics, this track is a testament to RASA's artistry and ability to craft music that speaks directly to the soul. It's a captivating journey through sound and emotion, leaving a lasting impression long after the music fades.

Review: Isabel Roberts' mid-80s single 'Love Situation' featuring Robert Chandler, is revitalized on this limited 12" release, part of Backatcha's 'Hot Vinyl' reissue series. These UK electric-boogie-synth-funk tracks are essential for any dancefloor. 'Love Situation' is a smooth, soulful jam with a catchy melody, perfectly complemented by Chandler's vocals. The instrumental version on the same side allows the groove to take center stage, making it ideal for those crucial dancefloor moments where the music needs to shine on its own. On Side-2. 'Just Fall in Love,' continues the vibe with a romantic, yet danceable track that's just as versatile. The inclusion of its own instrumental version ensures this 12" is a complete package, offering both vocal charm and instrumental grooves. 80s fans of the groove will surely find some enjoyment with these on their turntable.

Review: This reissue brings a sought-after slice of reggae history back to the forefront. Originally released in 1973, this 7" single features two gems miscredited to Ken Parker but rightfully belonging to Alton Ellis and Slim Smith. Side A presents Smith's soulful rendition of Curtis Mayfield's 'We Must Be In Love', a reggae-infused take on the classic tune. On the flip, Ellis delivers a heartfelt performance of 'I Wish I Could Make You Mine', showcasing his smooth vocals and impeccable phrasing. This reissue corrects a historical inaccuracy and makes these two rare tracks accessible once more.

Review: The Backatcha label has been busy turning out the jams recently and this 82nd EP is another one that will get you up on your feet in no time. Style X was at the helm of the original tune here but now two edit and remix masters get their hands on it and head into all new realms. First up is Sean P with The Second Line Jazz Funk Excursion remix which is all overdubbed horns and hurried disco rhythms, cosmic synths and loose percussion that make you move. Then it is the Ge-ology Truth To The Light remix that brings driving, deep and dubbed out disco goodness with majestic horns.

Review: Those who frequented Manchester clubs in the early 90s - particularly those where local hero Hewan Clarke plied his trade - will have danced to 'Got To Make Sure', one of a handful of killer street soul records made by Lancastrian vocalist Hughie Crawford as U-Bert. It is considered by some knowledgeable collectors as one of the greatest street soul records of all time. It's certainly been hard to find - hence this much-needed reissue from Backatcha Records. Happily, all three essential versions of the track are present. The original A-side 'Pablo Mix', a smooth, seductive and effortlessly soulful affair rich in loved-up dreaminess and fluttering synth sounds, comes backed by its original B-side, the jauntier and more dubbed out 'Minister Mix', and the more up-tempo, dancefloor ready 'Remix' (originally remixed under the alternative U-Bert & Co alias). Simply essential.