Unique Germany Vinyl & CDs

Review: Two tracks off the legendary 1993 tape-only release 'The Rhyme Wrecka' EP by Manchester hip-hop Group Freakin' Inglish, featuring Red Venom, on vinyl for the first time. This is a raucous Britcore gemstone, and an important window into a style that should be known to many more hip-hop enjoyers than most mainstream vernacular histories have allowed thus far. Seguing through the interweaving, but toothy, flows of Venom, alongside crewmates Eric-T and Yozzer, using the half-American accents informed by the predominance of gangsta rap at the time, this is still a killer record with a distinctly Northern - Salford to be precise - sound. 'Wrecka' is an apt description indeed.

Review: Principles Of Joy, the dynamic French soul outfit, joins forces with Germany's Unique Records for their latest release, 'Mermaid's Tale.' Led by keyboardist and composer Ludo Bors, the band, fronted by the captivating Rachel Yarabou, delivers a potent blend of deep soul with psychedelic and hip-hop elements. The title track seamlessly blends fantasy and reality in a psyche soul mood. Yarabou's smooth yet intense vocals glide effortlessly over the lush instrumentation, including heavy bass, hip-hop-inspired drums, and dreamy Rhodes and guitars. Meanwhile, 'Kick Off The Road' picks up the pace with its bluesy verses and funky choruses, showcasing the band's Stax and James Brown influences. Yarabou's spirited delivery tells the tale of a girl determined to forge her own path, echoing themes of freedom and women's emancipation. With its dynamic arrangements and compelling storytelling, Principles Of Joy's collaboration with Unique Records is a refreshing addition to the soul music landscape, blending traditional and contemporary elements with finesse and flair.