Unique Germany Vinyl & CDs

Review: Frank Popp Ensemble's fourth album, Waves, arrives via Unique Records, building on an eccentric "one-man concept" project that has enjoyed close to two decades of Northern soul vibe recreating. Recorded in Spain over 2024, the new LP shares a bed with its predecessor, Receiver (2009, as Gerard Love lends his voice to a new render of Popp's plush 2004 tune, 'Save'; Love previously appeared on the Under Covers compilation with a Frank Popp cover and returns here with striking effect. Also featured is Nicke Andersson - veteran of Entombed, Hellacopters, and The Solution - bringing a punky energy to 'Caught in a Web', a Northern Soul burner with an unmistakable Magic Touch swing. Emma Noble, meanwhile, beams with shimmering girl-group charisma on 'Unstoppable'.

Review: Frank Popp Ensemble returns via its fourth studio album, recorded and produced in Spain throughout 2024. Known for their sleek combos of flared orchestration with retro soul motifs, Popp once again brings in a wide array of guest vocalists: Gerard Love, formerly of Teenage Fanclub, on the strings-laced rework of his own deep cut 'Save' from 2004; then Nicke Andersson (The Hellacopters, Entombed, Imperial State Electric) on 'Caught In A Web', a high-energy Northern soul workout reproduced in full Magic Touch style. An impeccably done cinematic indie soul rouser, wrestling the nubby essence of a sound to the ground.

Review: The wonderful Our Label Records Vol. 1 celebrated two decades of rare funk 45s from the imprint's storied history and it now gets reissued for avid collectors and DJs who missed out first time around. Founded in 2005 by brothers Tom and Gu in London, the label soon got international acclaim by distributing tracks worldwide and establishing a niche for uptempo funk and soulful grooves. The compilation features hits like The New Mastersounds' 'Give Me A Minute Pt. 1 & Pt. 2' and Diazpora's 'Song 2'. With contributions from Mothergroove, Sir Ali Bengali, and Renegades Of Jazz, plus an exclusive track by The King Rooster, this release is vital to all proper funk heads.

Review: This Is DJ's Choice, Vol. 4 is another showcase of diverse funk sounds from various artists that blend genres and styles into something packed with potency. The whole thing is well programmed so that is plays out like a set, too, with everything from soulful melodies to infectious beats. The album spans funk, jazz, reggae, and electronic music that is perfect for parties or playlist additions alike. The Bamboos's 'Get In The Scene' (feat Ohmega Watts) is a nice lithe sound, The Supersonics brings some big brass energy on 'The Chosen One' and Sharon Jackson & The Soul Destroyers keep it raw with 'Fakin' It'.