1
Azymuth - Jazz Carnival (Daniele Baldelli & Marco Dionigi Remix)
2
Daniele Baldelli - Jazz Carnival
3
Azymuth - Young Embrace (Daniele Baldelli & Marco Dionigi Remix)
4
Azymuth - Young Embrace (Original - 1979)
The legendary Daniele Baldelli began to propose the two Azymuth’s tracks taken from the album ‘Light As A Feather’ in his DJ sets at Discoteca Cosmic the two Azymuth’s tracks taken from the album ‘Light As A Feather’ the same year in which they were released: 1979. And a trace of this has remained in his legendary mixed tapes of those years.
Today he remixes and models them as he deems most suited to a Cosmic DJ set.
In addition to the two Remixes released with his right arm Marco Dionigi there is a totally resonated cover version of ‘Jazz Carnival’ and the original 1979 ‘Young Embrace’. More
Today he remixes and models them as he deems most suited to a Cosmic DJ set.
In addition to the two Remixes released with his right arm Marco Dionigi there is a totally resonated cover version of ‘Jazz Carnival’ and the original 1979 ‘Young Embrace’. More
More records from Mondo Groove
1
Kio Amachree - In The Deep End
2
Kio Amachree - Promises Of Love
3
Kio Amachree - Made In Nigeria
4
Kio Amachree - Truly
5
Kio Amachree - Any Drummer Can Play Guitar
The second album by Kio Amachree in Afro Boogie Funk style recorded in Lagos Nigerian in early 80s. Limited Edition.
More
1
Daniele Baldelli & DJ Rocca - Rolling Wave
2
Daniele Baldelli & DJ Rocca - Focused Image
3
Daniele Baldelli & DJ Rocca - Marching On
4
Daniele Baldelli & DJ Rocca - Funk Infusion
The superduo formed by two authentic stars of the Italian dance scene is back with the ‘Rolling Wave’ EP on Mondo Groove. Daniele Baldelli needs no introduction; he has made a fiery mark on DJ history worldwide with his legendary sets. He built his eclectic and visionary style at the Baia Degli Angeli in the 1970s and Cosmic in the early 1980s, to the triumph of recent years, in demand at every latitude on the planet. DJ Rocca is one of Italy’s most inspired producers, his art forged in a mix of technique and passion, versatile enough to work alongside artists as diverse as Baldelli, Dimitri From Paris or one of the giants of Italian jazz, pianist Franco D’Andrea.
Daniele Baldelli & DJ Rocca are on fire in the four tracks of this new EP on Mondo Groove, which starts with the bleep sounds of the title track ‘Rolling Wave’, goes into orbit with the deep boogie of ‘Funk Infusion’ and a party number like ‘Marchin On’, and culminates in the refined disco-jazz digressions of ‘Focused Image’. A record that will be a future classic. More
Daniele Baldelli & DJ Rocca are on fire in the four tracks of this new EP on Mondo Groove, which starts with the bleep sounds of the title track ‘Rolling Wave’, goes into orbit with the deep boogie of ‘Funk Infusion’ and a party number like ‘Marchin On’, and culminates in the refined disco-jazz digressions of ‘Focused Image’. A record that will be a future classic. More
1
Kaoru Kuroki - The Age Of Innocence
2
Kaoru Kuroki - A Love Note For You
3
Kaoru Kuroki - Birth From Time
4
Kaoru Kuroki - Chinatown Love
Note: limited edition picture disc
A cult 12? EP from 1987 by legendary Japanese erotic actress Kaoru Kuroki, repressed for the first time on sexy picture disc vinyl.
A total of 4 tunes, including “???? (The Age Of Innocence)”; a strange synth-pop track based on an Okinawan folk song, “A Love Note For You”; an erotic poetry reading she wrote herself, “?????? (Birth From Time)”; a killer techno-pop track that could work as a hidden gem for DJs and ???? (Chinatown Love) ???; an erotic serenade dedicated to Chinatown.
Picture disc in the colorful cover.
Licensed by TEICHIKU RECORDS CO.,LTD; original master tapes. More
A cult 12? EP from 1987 by legendary Japanese erotic actress Kaoru Kuroki, repressed for the first time on sexy picture disc vinyl.
A total of 4 tunes, including “???? (The Age Of Innocence)”; a strange synth-pop track based on an Okinawan folk song, “A Love Note For You”; an erotic poetry reading she wrote herself, “?????? (Birth From Time)”; a killer techno-pop track that could work as a hidden gem for DJs and ???? (Chinatown Love) ???; an erotic serenade dedicated to Chinatown.
Picture disc in the colorful cover.
Licensed by TEICHIKU RECORDS CO.,LTD; original master tapes. More
1
Alkemy - Come On
2
Alkemy - Come On (DJ Ralf Remix)
3
Alkemy - Cloud
4
Alkemy - Cloud (Reworked By GNMR)
ALKEMY is a legendary Italo house producer from the Adriatic Riviera. Active since 1991 when his first 12? was released, in the 1990s composed and produced several dozen tracks that are now cult favorites among young DJs and collectors of the genre. Now he returns to produce in the same style of the time two tracks that impressed two well-known Italian DJs, one of the old school and one of the new, who wanted to make their own versions. Dj Ralf, one of the most historical, notorious and active DJs in Italy, has remixed “Cloud” for his warm and intense Dj sets around Italy. In “Cloud Detox”, GNMR (Gianmaria Coccoluto) doesn’t approach as just a remixer; rather, he doesn’t distort or eliminate/replace the important parts of the track but transports and renews them in a new musical realm of his own. Where ethnic elements, live-played drums, and intentionally unquantized rhythms give birth to a unique body under the moon of Goa in India. Mysticisms, transcendental worlds, lengthy dances free from others’ judgment, and closer to supernatural contact make Detox a journey towards purification.
More
1
Moana Pozzi - Supermacho (Extended)
2
Moana Pozzi - Bonita
3
Moana Pozzi - Impulsi Di Sesso
4
Moana Pozzi - Let's Dance
Repress!
MONDO GROOVE is releasing a real treat in a limited edition! The Dance Hits of Moana Pozzi, the legendary Italian porn star who was also very active as a singer on the music that JayHorus created especially for her. A 12" 45rpm with tracks produced at the turn of the 80s and 90s transferred from the original master tapes; it includes the 3 sought-after strong late Italo-Disco tracks Supermacho (Extended), Impulses of Sex and Let’s Dance, with the addition of Bonita, an unreleased track from the era used during her spicy live shows. More
MONDO GROOVE is releasing a real treat in a limited edition! The Dance Hits of Moana Pozzi, the legendary Italian porn star who was also very active as a singer on the music that JayHorus created especially for her. A 12" 45rpm with tracks produced at the turn of the 80s and 90s transferred from the original master tapes; it includes the 3 sought-after strong late Italo-Disco tracks Supermacho (Extended), Impulses of Sex and Let’s Dance, with the addition of Bonita, an unreleased track from the era used during her spicy live shows. More
1
Cicciolina - Muscolo Rosso
2
Cicciolina - Inno Alla Trasgressione
3
Cicciolina - San Francisco Dance
4
Cicciolina - Sexy Porno Shop
In the late 1980s, Ilona Staller aka Cicciolina’s popularity was skyrocketing. It was at that time that she recorded her most representative and iconic song: ‘Muscolo Rosso’. It is finally reissued in 12? 45rpm from original master tapes accompanied by 3 other dance hits such as ‘San Francisco Dance’, ‘Inno Alla Trasgressione’ and ‘Sexy Porno Shop’. Includes a postcard and sticker.
More
1
Nuccio Di Vico - Lasciati Amare
2
Momo Yang - Peggio Per Te
3
Patrizia Caselli - Un Amore Anonimo
4
Franco Camassa - Il Primo Appuntamento
5
Gloria Piedimonte - Chi Sei
6
Patrick Samson - Dinamite
7
Gabriella Fava - Discoteca
8
Spataneri Sebastiano Aria - Vagabondo Non Sono
The first official compilation of DISCO STUPENDA, the party that brings back hidden masterpieces of Italian music to the dancefloor and that is sweeping the entire Italy and beyond, is finally coming out in vinyl, its most appropriate format.
The selection is by TOMMIBOY, resident DJ and founder of Italy’s most Italian party… everyone dances!
The 8 killer Disco Funk tracks tested on the most disparate dancefloors – from clubs in London, Berlin, Copenhagen, New York, Istanbul, Tunis, etc. to the Italian beach – are extremely rare gems that are hard to find even on the collector’s market.
A must-have gem released in Limited Editions by the specialized Mondo Groove Records. More
The selection is by TOMMIBOY, resident DJ and founder of Italy’s most Italian party… everyone dances!
The 8 killer Disco Funk tracks tested on the most disparate dancefloors – from clubs in London, Berlin, Copenhagen, New York, Istanbul, Tunis, etc. to the Italian beach – are extremely rare gems that are hard to find even on the collector’s market.
A must-have gem released in Limited Editions by the specialized Mondo Groove Records. More
1
Riccardo Cioni - Fog (Morgan Geist Edit)
2
Riccardo Cioni - Fog (Tiger & Woods Remix)
3
Riccardo Cioni - Fog (N.O.I.A. Remix)
4
Riccardo Cioni - Fog (Daniele Baldelli & Marco Dionigi Remix)
‘Fog’ is one of most obscure and dark italo instrumental works done in 1984 late at night in Riccardo Cioni’s garage/studio by his trusty Stephen Head experimenting on PPG Wave 2.2, Linn 9000 and Phophet 5.
Mondo Groove release this 12? 45rpm involving 4 key figures of analog electro: Morgan Geist (Metro Area), Tiger & Woods, N.O.I.A. and Daniele Baldelli. More
Mondo Groove release this 12? 45rpm involving 4 key figures of analog electro: Morgan Geist (Metro Area), Tiger & Woods, N.O.I.A. and Daniele Baldelli. More
1
Camomilla - Queen Of The Night
2
Noa-Noa - Harry O'
3
De Dion - Sexy Cola (Extended Version)
4
Sandy Samuel - I Like Sado Music
Official reissue with four hard to find Italo Disco gems (’83 – ’88) taken from the original master tapes!
More
1
I.G.N.A. - Komorebi
2
I.G.N.A. - Komorebi (Remix By Ricky L & MarcoRadi)
For over twenty years on the turntables, I.G.N.A has imposed his sound in the best clubs in Europe. Born in Sicily and raised in Emilia, I.G.N.A’s music is appreciated by many important artists with whom he shares the main stages. As a producer he has released successful EPs on labels such as Deeperfect, Moan and Greatstuff.
This new single is inspired by old school sounds and synths combined with house in a future perspective.
The remix was entrusted to two masters of house music: Ricky L and MarcoRadi. With the intention of spreading new emotions everywhere, looking where no one else lingers, surprising oneself as the music moves in new directions. More
This new single is inspired by old school sounds and synths combined with house in a future perspective.
The remix was entrusted to two masters of house music: Ricky L and MarcoRadi. With the intention of spreading new emotions everywhere, looking where no one else lingers, surprising oneself as the music moves in new directions. More
1
Luna & Black Connection - Flame
2
Simona Gay - This Night
3
Virna Anderson - Life Sound
4
Laura Bitto - Trinidad
5
Gioia - No Secrets
6
Patrizia Pellegrino - Bandito
Mondo Groove is back with another beautiful compilation featuring six sought-after late 80’s gems by the ladies of italo disco. Limited supplies!
More
1
Neon - Skydiver (Vocal - Long Version)
2
Neon - Skydiver (Instrumental)
Reissue of the italo disco classic produced, composed and arranged by Celso Valli
More
1
Juan Pablo Torres - Cubadisco
2
Juan Pablo Torres - Alone
3
Juan Pablo Torres - Hay Hay
4
Juan Pablo Torres - Bermuda Triangle
5
Juan Pablo Torres - Love Never Dies
6
Juan Pablo Torres - Que Melocha
7
Juan Pablo Torres - Oblivion
8
Juan Pablo Torres - Ay Caramba Que Son
9
Juan Pablo Torres - Rialto
Juan Pablo Torres was one of the best trombone players in the Latin-jazz community of the second half of the 20th century.
He was the director of Algo Nuevo and a member of Irakere, two of the leading exponents of Afro-Cuban jazz in the 1970s and 1980s. He has also directed various Cuban supergroups such as Estrellas de Areito and Cuban Masters.
Almost all of his albums were made for Areito de La Habana, Cuba.
‘Cuba Disco’ was the only album released in his name in Europe; recorded in Milan in 1984 and produced by Aldo Pagani. In Italy in the same year he participated in two records by Pino Daniele and one by Astor Piazzolla.
Accompanied by his faithful Gruppo Algo Nuevo, with the addition of some guests such as the Italian jazz guitarist Angelo Arienti, his traditional Afro-Cuban vein is contaminated by disco and balearic moments; as in the case of the magnificent ‘Bermuda Triangle’ which anticipates the current atmosphere of Nu Genea.
Limited edition. Released from the transfer of the original master tape. More
He was the director of Algo Nuevo and a member of Irakere, two of the leading exponents of Afro-Cuban jazz in the 1970s and 1980s. He has also directed various Cuban supergroups such as Estrellas de Areito and Cuban Masters.
Almost all of his albums were made for Areito de La Habana, Cuba.
‘Cuba Disco’ was the only album released in his name in Europe; recorded in Milan in 1984 and produced by Aldo Pagani. In Italy in the same year he participated in two records by Pino Daniele and one by Astor Piazzolla.
Accompanied by his faithful Gruppo Algo Nuevo, with the addition of some guests such as the Italian jazz guitarist Angelo Arienti, his traditional Afro-Cuban vein is contaminated by disco and balearic moments; as in the case of the magnificent ‘Bermuda Triangle’ which anticipates the current atmosphere of Nu Genea.
Limited edition. Released from the transfer of the original master tape. More
1
Riccardo Cioni - Darkness Inside
2
Riccardo Cioni - Go Break
3
Riccardo Cioni - Fog
Finally the cult italo disco 12" from 1984 by Riccardo Cioni repressed in limited edition for the first time.
More
1
Kio Amachree - Hot Black 'n' Sweet
2
Kio Amachree - Bokassa
3
Kio Amachree - Ivory
4
Kio Amachree - First Time
5
Kio Amachree - Posers
6
Kio Amachree - Rat Race City
7
Kio Amachree - Dance All Over Me
8
Kio Amachree - Honest Men
The killer 1981’s Nigerian funk boogie disco and reggae by Kio Amachree repressed for the first time.
More
1
Honey Machine - Pleasure
2
Honey Machine - Dooby Dooby
3
Honey Machine - Free Like The Wind
4
Honey Machine - Give Your Love To Me
5
Honey Machine - Shake Your Body
6
Honey Machine - We Can Make It
7
Honey Machine - Come Back To Me
Another Boogie-Funk records repress for the 1st time. Recorded in Lagos, Nigeria in 1982. Features the great Nkono Teles on clavinet and electric piano and Jojo Kuo, drummer who played with Manu Dibango and Fela Kuti among others.
More
1
Galaxy - Next To You
2
Galaxy - Let Love Begin
3
Galaxy - The Bed's Too Big Without You
4
Galaxy - The Groove Machine
5
Galaxy - Galaxy
6
Galaxy - Heart To Heart
One of the best boogie records of Nigeria repressed for the first time. Produced in 1981 by Jake Sollo and performed by himself flanked by the outstanding funky bass by Randy Taylor and the great vocal performances from the Galaxy girls. Recorded and produced in England but originally released only in Nigeria.
More
1
Skorpio - Take Me
2
Skorpio - Jealousy Lane
3
Skorpio - Black Mercedes
4
Skorpio - Joker
5
Skorpio - Under The Rainbow
6
Skorpio - Long Hard Climb
7
Skorpio - Escapade With Zero
Cult synth-pop album from 1984 repressed for the very first time. One of the most obscure Synth / Italo recordings from Germany with the Danny “Skorpio” Antonelli’s haunting vocals. Includes the obscure deep “Black Mercedes” and the hit “Long Hard Climb”. Limited edition.
More
Customers who bought this also bought this
1
Crowd Pleasers - Eggs & Bacon
2
Crowd Pleasers - What’s Going On
3
Crowd Pleasers - You’re The One
4
Crowd Pleasers - Down By The River
5
Crowd Pleasers - If I Were Your Woman
6
Crowd Pleasers - Too Many People
7
Crowd Pleasers - Make It Easy On Yourself
8
Crowd Pleasers - Shangra La
LP
* Handmade Tip-On Sleeve
* OBI Strip
* Analogue Remastered
Versions:
200 x Black Vinyl Edition
Tracklist:
Side A
A1 Eggs & Bacon
A2 What’s Going On
A3 You’re The One
A4 Down By The River
Side B
B1 If I Were Your Woman
B2 Too Many People
B3 Make It Easy On Yourself
B4 Shangra La
Release Notes:
THE 7000 DOLLAR ACETATE
The year is 1971, a time when nightclubs still had live bands perform the musical hits of the
day. Every city had its local stars and for the club scene of the city of Columbus, Ohio it was
the CROWD PLEASERS. Founded in 1968 by June Carey along with her younger brothers,
twins El & Al, the seven-piece band grew into an in-demand act that performed all over the
city. In April 1971 they went into the studio to record eight songs, but an actual release
never materialized. In time the master tape was destroyed and all that was left were two
acetates. But as time passed, these too were lost. Over the years, a growing market for
obscure funk and soul albums emerged. When one of the acetates went up for sale on eBay
in 2011, it sold for $3,900! Eleven years later, in 2022, the last remaining copy also appeared
on eBay. Collectors drove the price up until it finally sold for a staggering $7,000! So now,
after more than 53 years, Al Carey & Regrooved Records proudly presents the previously
unreleased 1971 album of the CROWD PLEASERS featuring renditions of hits by Marvin Gaye,
Sly Stone's Little Sister, Neil Young, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Cold Blood, Dionne Warwick,
The Lettermen and the original funk break track “Eggs & Bacon”. More
* Handmade Tip-On Sleeve
* OBI Strip
* Analogue Remastered
Versions:
200 x Black Vinyl Edition
Tracklist:
Side A
A1 Eggs & Bacon
A2 What’s Going On
A3 You’re The One
A4 Down By The River
Side B
B1 If I Were Your Woman
B2 Too Many People
B3 Make It Easy On Yourself
B4 Shangra La
Release Notes:
THE 7000 DOLLAR ACETATE
The year is 1971, a time when nightclubs still had live bands perform the musical hits of the
day. Every city had its local stars and for the club scene of the city of Columbus, Ohio it was
the CROWD PLEASERS. Founded in 1968 by June Carey along with her younger brothers,
twins El & Al, the seven-piece band grew into an in-demand act that performed all over the
city. In April 1971 they went into the studio to record eight songs, but an actual release
never materialized. In time the master tape was destroyed and all that was left were two
acetates. But as time passed, these too were lost. Over the years, a growing market for
obscure funk and soul albums emerged. When one of the acetates went up for sale on eBay
in 2011, it sold for $3,900! Eleven years later, in 2022, the last remaining copy also appeared
on eBay. Collectors drove the price up until it finally sold for a staggering $7,000! So now,
after more than 53 years, Al Carey & Regrooved Records proudly presents the previously
unreleased 1971 album of the CROWD PLEASERS featuring renditions of hits by Marvin Gaye,
Sly Stone's Little Sister, Neil Young, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Cold Blood, Dionne Warwick,
The Lettermen and the original funk break track “Eggs & Bacon”. More
1
Frente Cumbiero / Mad Professor - La Bocachico
2
Frente Cumbiero / Mad Professor - Bestiales 77 (Mad Professor Dub)
Format: 7” inches – Black Vinyl
Tracklisting:
A. La Bocachico
B. Bestiales 77 (Mad Professor Dub)
Description:
The Colombian band Frente Cumbiero from Bogota has been successfully mixing
traditional cumbia rhythms with more contemporary music trends for a number of years,
creating an unusual end product. At the Javeriana Universidad of Bogota, in 2010, there was
a productive meeting between the four-piece band and some local musicians with Mad
Professor. After three work-intensive days, the recordings were in the can.
Out on a limited sold out double Lp, and a sold out 7” inches box set, we're so honored to
repress 2 songs from this masterpiece on a single 45 vinyl.
Made with Love and cut it loud for your ear pleasure.
Edition of 600 copies, coming in a black paper sleeve with sticker.
Pressed on high quality Black and Yellow vinyl wax (40 gr.).
Credits:
Prod. by Frente Cumbiero
La Bocachico:Mario Galeano Toro: Bajo, guacharaca / Pedro Ojeda: Batería, timbal / Eblis Alvarez:
Electrónica / Andrés Martínez: Guitarra / Chongo Puello: Alegre, Caja / Marco Fajardo:
Clarinete / Juan Francisco Duque: Trompeta / Oswald Macías: Trombón / Diego Tunjano:
Saxo Barítono
Bestiales 77:
Dubbed by Mad Professor and Joe Ariwa at Ariwa Studio in London.
Artwork by Mateo Rivano
Remastered in 2023 by Simone Squillario
Made with by Little Beat More 2023 More
Tracklisting:
A. La Bocachico
B. Bestiales 77 (Mad Professor Dub)
Description:
The Colombian band Frente Cumbiero from Bogota has been successfully mixing
traditional cumbia rhythms with more contemporary music trends for a number of years,
creating an unusual end product. At the Javeriana Universidad of Bogota, in 2010, there was
a productive meeting between the four-piece band and some local musicians with Mad
Professor. After three work-intensive days, the recordings were in the can.
Out on a limited sold out double Lp, and a sold out 7” inches box set, we're so honored to
repress 2 songs from this masterpiece on a single 45 vinyl.
Made with Love and cut it loud for your ear pleasure.
Edition of 600 copies, coming in a black paper sleeve with sticker.
Pressed on high quality Black and Yellow vinyl wax (40 gr.).
Credits:
Prod. by Frente Cumbiero
La Bocachico:Mario Galeano Toro: Bajo, guacharaca / Pedro Ojeda: Batería, timbal / Eblis Alvarez:
Electrónica / Andrés Martínez: Guitarra / Chongo Puello: Alegre, Caja / Marco Fajardo:
Clarinete / Juan Francisco Duque: Trompeta / Oswald Macías: Trombón / Diego Tunjano:
Saxo Barítono
Bestiales 77:
Dubbed by Mad Professor and Joe Ariwa at Ariwa Studio in London.
Artwork by Mateo Rivano
Remastered in 2023 by Simone Squillario
Made with by Little Beat More 2023 More
1
Various - A1 : Cold Sweat
2
Various - A2 : Unease
3
Various - A3 : Aftermath
4
Various - A4 : Isolation
5
Various - A5 : The Unknown
6
Various - A6 : The Manipulator
7
Various - A7 : Space Probe
8
Various - B1 : Psychosis
9
Various - B2 : At Risk
10
Various - B3 : At Risk (Link)
11
Various - B4 : Manhunt
12
Various - B5 : Flying Squad
13
Various - B6 : Dead End
14
Various - B7 : Collision Course
15
Various - B8 : Voodoo
180g vinyl, remastered from the original analogue tapes
Territories:
Worldwide no restrictions
Track List:
A1 : Cold Sweat (1:50)
A2 : Unease (2:41)
A3 : Aftermath (1:45)
A4 : Isolation (2:34)
A5 : The Unknown (2:42)
A6 : The Manipulator (3:12)
A7 : Space Probe (2:50)
B1 : Psychosis (2:54)
B2 : At Risk (2:53)
B3 : At Risk (Link) (0:26)
B4 : Manhunt (3:00)
B5 : Flying Squad (2:40)
B6 : Dead End (1:11)
B7 : Collision Course (1:47)
B8 : Voodoo (1:13)
Release Notes:
They Say: “A selection of suspense underscores and drama blackcloths which vary in intensity and cover a wide range of suspense and drama situations”.
We say: A breaky, funky library great masquerading as a horror score. Oh, and the cover art is amazing.
Breath Of Danger was originally released in 1974, and rounded up a killer ensemble cast of library legends including Alan Hawkshaw, Brian Bennett, Alan Parker, David Lindup, Kenny Salmon, Barry Morgan and Ray Cooper.
Lindup’s opener “Cold Sweat” sounds like hip-hop-friendly mode Axelrod and, indeed, was brilliantly sampled by Kool Keith for his Dr. Dooom project. Alan Hawkshaw and Brian Bennett’s “The Manipulator” sounds like it arrived straight out of the same sessions as their legendary Synthesizer & Percussion LP from the same year.
Over on the B-side Alan Parker’s “Psychosis” is a moving and beautifully restrained funk-guitar/cello/harp workout. Stunning. Kenny Salmon’s “Flying Squad” is a sleazy, flute-enhanced gem and the album closes with “Voodoo”, a seventy second riot of sound and colour from the dynamic drumming-percussion duo of Barry Morgan and Ray Cooper.
Sonically, there’s a widescreen vitality in all these tracks thanks to the driving rhythms, vibrant horn sections and blazing guitar work. It renders Breath Of Danger - 45 years old - truly ageless. The Themes series is known for having particularly striking sleeves, which was unusual for library records at the time, and Breath Of Danger’s scraps of comic-book crazy make for one of the most eye-catching.
As with all of our other Themes re-issues, the audio for Breath Of Danger comes from the original analogue tapes and has been remastered for vinyl by Be With regular Simon Francis. We’ve taken the same care with the sleeves, handing the reproduction duties over to Richard Robinson, the current custodian of KPM’s brand identity.
More
Territories:
Worldwide no restrictions
Track List:
A1 : Cold Sweat (1:50)
A2 : Unease (2:41)
A3 : Aftermath (1:45)
A4 : Isolation (2:34)
A5 : The Unknown (2:42)
A6 : The Manipulator (3:12)
A7 : Space Probe (2:50)
B1 : Psychosis (2:54)
B2 : At Risk (2:53)
B3 : At Risk (Link) (0:26)
B4 : Manhunt (3:00)
B5 : Flying Squad (2:40)
B6 : Dead End (1:11)
B7 : Collision Course (1:47)
B8 : Voodoo (1:13)
Release Notes:
They Say: “A selection of suspense underscores and drama blackcloths which vary in intensity and cover a wide range of suspense and drama situations”.
We say: A breaky, funky library great masquerading as a horror score. Oh, and the cover art is amazing.
Breath Of Danger was originally released in 1974, and rounded up a killer ensemble cast of library legends including Alan Hawkshaw, Brian Bennett, Alan Parker, David Lindup, Kenny Salmon, Barry Morgan and Ray Cooper.
Lindup’s opener “Cold Sweat” sounds like hip-hop-friendly mode Axelrod and, indeed, was brilliantly sampled by Kool Keith for his Dr. Dooom project. Alan Hawkshaw and Brian Bennett’s “The Manipulator” sounds like it arrived straight out of the same sessions as their legendary Synthesizer & Percussion LP from the same year.
Over on the B-side Alan Parker’s “Psychosis” is a moving and beautifully restrained funk-guitar/cello/harp workout. Stunning. Kenny Salmon’s “Flying Squad” is a sleazy, flute-enhanced gem and the album closes with “Voodoo”, a seventy second riot of sound and colour from the dynamic drumming-percussion duo of Barry Morgan and Ray Cooper.
Sonically, there’s a widescreen vitality in all these tracks thanks to the driving rhythms, vibrant horn sections and blazing guitar work. It renders Breath Of Danger - 45 years old - truly ageless. The Themes series is known for having particularly striking sleeves, which was unusual for library records at the time, and Breath Of Danger’s scraps of comic-book crazy make for one of the most eye-catching.
As with all of our other Themes re-issues, the audio for Breath Of Danger comes from the original analogue tapes and has been remastered for vinyl by Be With regular Simon Francis. We’ve taken the same care with the sleeves, handing the reproduction duties over to Richard Robinson, the current custodian of KPM’s brand identity.
More
1
Daisaku Kume - A1. Azuma's Theme (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
2
Daisaku Kume - A2. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (End Title)
3
Daisaku Kume - A3. Kiyohiro's Theme
4
Daisaku Kume - A4. Kiyohiro's Theme II
5
Daisaku Kume - B1. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title)
6
Daisaku Kume - B2. Fear (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
7
Daisaku Kume - B3. Intorno all'idol mio (Antonio Cesti)
8
Daisaku Kume - B4. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title - Saxophone Version)
LP: 45rpm Cut, Inside Out Printed Sleeve, Sticker
WORLDWIDE
Genre: Soundtrack, Classical, Smooth Jazz, Modern Western
Tracklisting LP
A1. Azuma's Theme (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
A2. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (End Title)
A3. Kiyohiro's Theme
A4. Kiyohiro's Theme II
B1. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title)
B2. Fear (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
B3. Intorno all'idol mio (Antonio Cesti)
B4. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title - Saxophone Version)
Info
WRWTFWW Records is thrilled to announce the official reissue of Daisaku Kume's original soundtrack for the highly acclaimed 1989 Japanese crime/drama movie Violent Cop. Available for the first time outside of Japan, the album comes in a limited edition of 500 copies worldwide with a 45 rpm cut providing full audio pleasure and an iconic record sleeve featuring the movie director and star: the one and only "Beat" Takeshi Kitano!
Violent Cop marks Kitano's directorial debut - a gritty neo-noir in which he stars as a rogue detective fighting a sadistic crime syndicate, only to discover widespread internal corruption in the police force. Poetic, minimalistic, with a superb balance between small soothing moments of beauty and vertiginous sudden violence, the film spearheaded a superb international career for the multi-talented filmmaker, actor, and comedian, which includes works such as Sonatine, Hana-Bi, and Battle Royale. The release of the soundtrack on vinyl presents an excellent opportunity for fans to explore the musical underpinnings of one of Kitano's earliest creations.
Daisaku Kume, known for his work as the keyboardist for late 70s fusion bands T-Square and Prism, showcases versatile musical prowess on the soundtrack, taking listeners on a sonic journey through a blend of genres including magnificent Erik Satie re-interpretations, melancholic smooth jazz sometimes reminiscent of Taxi Driver, ambient-classical, and modern Western atmospherics. It's the perfect setting for Kitano's stoic but tormented lonesome urban cowboy character. Raw power mixed with timeless elegance.
Violent Cop (Original Soundtrack) by Daisaku Kume follows the recent release of the soundtrack from another groundbreaking Japanese movie, Shin'ya Tsukamoto's Tokyo Fist (1995), with music by industrial visionaries Chu Ishikawa & Der Eisenrost, also currently available on WRWTFWW Records.
Points of interests
- For fans of good movies, good soundtracks, Takeshi Kitano and Erik Satie, furniture music in a modern Western setting, ambient, minimalism, classical, Japanese crime movies of the 90s, Daisaku Kume, Taxi Driver, nice looking record sleeves.
- First official reissue of the soundtrack for classic Japanese crime/drama movie Violent Cop (1989) directed by and starring the legend (Beat) Takeshi Kitano.
More
WORLDWIDE
Genre: Soundtrack, Classical, Smooth Jazz, Modern Western
Tracklisting LP
A1. Azuma's Theme (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
A2. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (End Title)
A3. Kiyohiro's Theme
A4. Kiyohiro's Theme II
B1. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title)
B2. Fear (Gnossienne No. 1 - Erik Satie)
B3. Intorno all'idol mio (Antonio Cesti)
B4. Sono Otoko Kyobo Ni Tsuki (Violent Cop) (Main Title - Saxophone Version)
Info
WRWTFWW Records is thrilled to announce the official reissue of Daisaku Kume's original soundtrack for the highly acclaimed 1989 Japanese crime/drama movie Violent Cop. Available for the first time outside of Japan, the album comes in a limited edition of 500 copies worldwide with a 45 rpm cut providing full audio pleasure and an iconic record sleeve featuring the movie director and star: the one and only "Beat" Takeshi Kitano!
Violent Cop marks Kitano's directorial debut - a gritty neo-noir in which he stars as a rogue detective fighting a sadistic crime syndicate, only to discover widespread internal corruption in the police force. Poetic, minimalistic, with a superb balance between small soothing moments of beauty and vertiginous sudden violence, the film spearheaded a superb international career for the multi-talented filmmaker, actor, and comedian, which includes works such as Sonatine, Hana-Bi, and Battle Royale. The release of the soundtrack on vinyl presents an excellent opportunity for fans to explore the musical underpinnings of one of Kitano's earliest creations.
Daisaku Kume, known for his work as the keyboardist for late 70s fusion bands T-Square and Prism, showcases versatile musical prowess on the soundtrack, taking listeners on a sonic journey through a blend of genres including magnificent Erik Satie re-interpretations, melancholic smooth jazz sometimes reminiscent of Taxi Driver, ambient-classical, and modern Western atmospherics. It's the perfect setting for Kitano's stoic but tormented lonesome urban cowboy character. Raw power mixed with timeless elegance.
Violent Cop (Original Soundtrack) by Daisaku Kume follows the recent release of the soundtrack from another groundbreaking Japanese movie, Shin'ya Tsukamoto's Tokyo Fist (1995), with music by industrial visionaries Chu Ishikawa & Der Eisenrost, also currently available on WRWTFWW Records.
Points of interests
- For fans of good movies, good soundtracks, Takeshi Kitano and Erik Satie, furniture music in a modern Western setting, ambient, minimalism, classical, Japanese crime movies of the 90s, Daisaku Kume, Taxi Driver, nice looking record sleeves.
- First official reissue of the soundtrack for classic Japanese crime/drama movie Violent Cop (1989) directed by and starring the legend (Beat) Takeshi Kitano.
More
1
Junie - Tightrope/Supergroupie
2
Junie - Shakey Ground
7"
* Regrooved Company Outer sleeve
* Analogue Remastered
* Limited Edition 150pcs made
Versions:
150 x Black Vinyl Edition
Tracklist:
Side A
A1 Tightrope/Supergroupie
Side B
B1 Shakey Ground
Release Notes:
Regrooved Records is thrilled to release a limited 45 featuring the legendary Junie Morrison,
backed by the dynamic "Crowd Pleasers." Recorded live in 1976, this rare gem captures the
raw energy and unparalleled talent of a true funk pioneer. Previously only released as a part
of the limited extended edition version of the album "The Funky Worm – Live at Dooley’s
1976" on Regrooved Records, this 7" record is now being offered as a standalone treasure
for all funk aficionados. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of funk history! More
* Regrooved Company Outer sleeve
* Analogue Remastered
* Limited Edition 150pcs made
Versions:
150 x Black Vinyl Edition
Tracklist:
Side A
A1 Tightrope/Supergroupie
Side B
B1 Shakey Ground
Release Notes:
Regrooved Records is thrilled to release a limited 45 featuring the legendary Junie Morrison,
backed by the dynamic "Crowd Pleasers." Recorded live in 1976, this rare gem captures the
raw energy and unparalleled talent of a true funk pioneer. Previously only released as a part
of the limited extended edition version of the album "The Funky Worm – Live at Dooley’s
1976" on Regrooved Records, this 7" record is now being offered as a standalone treasure
for all funk aficionados. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of funk history! More
1
Arnold Albury And The Casuals - That's a Bet
2
Arnold Albury And The Casuals - My Baby Don't Understand
7"
* Regrooved Company Outer sleeve
* Analogue Remastered
* Limited Edition 250pcs made
Tracklist:
A. That's a Bet
B. My Baby Don't Understand More
* Regrooved Company Outer sleeve
* Analogue Remastered
* Limited Edition 250pcs made
Tracklist:
A. That's a Bet
B. My Baby Don't Understand More
1
Cleveland Eaton - Keep It Funky 5:20
2
Cleveland Eaton - Day Dreaming 3:36
3
Cleveland Eaton - Here Comes Funky Lou 4:00
4
Cleveland Eaton - Betcha By Golly Wow 4:15
5
Cleveland Eaton - People Make The World Go Round 5:34
6
Cleveland Eaton - Slipping Into Darkness 7:15
7
Cleveland Eaton - Missing You 3:17
8
Cleveland Eaton - John's Groove 2:55
9
Cleveland Eaton - The Love Gangster 3:20
10
Cleveland Eaton - Lie 2:15
11
Cleveland Eaton - Ah Movin' On 4:00
Format Notes: 2023 reissue, 140g vinyl
Territories: Worldwide no restrictions
Track List:
A1 Keep It Funky 5:20
A2 Day Dreaming 3:36
A3 Here Comes Funky Lou 4:00
A4 Betcha By Golly Wow 4:15
A5 People Make The World Go Round 5:34
B1 Slipping Into Darkness 7:15
B2 Missing You 3:17
B3 John's Groove 2:55
B4 The Love Gangster 3:20
B5 Lie 2:15
B6 Ah Movin' On 4:00
Release Notes:
"Every cut on our albums are what we call "A" sides" - Cleveland Eaton, on Half And Half
Like the winged half-man/half-bull that dominates its outrageous cover, Cleveland Eaton's Half And Half is a mutant bass-heavy monster that absolutely slays. Incredible jazz-funk from 1973, it's been largely overlooked for decades, and unfairly so. This is just sensational music - a crate digger's delight. It's super funky throughout, with lots of layers, jazz breaks for days, dripping with style and gritty class. This is the first reissue of what has been a hard to find record for many years; it's long overdue. Joyous music for mind, soul and body.
Cleveland Eaton was a revered bassist who played an active role in the backing of Count Basie, the Donald Byrd Quintet, The Ramsey Lewis Trio, Terry Callier and Minnie Riperton; amongst many, many others. Half And Half was the first album released under his own name, initially released as a private press record on his - awkwardly named - Cle An Thair Records. It was then picked up by Gamble & Huff for Gamble Records. Varied, string-adorned and with stupid funky grooves, it's just exceptionally good.
Whilst Half And Half is treasured for its famously brilliant interpretations of gold funk-soul standards, Eaton proves an imaginative composer in his own right. Indeed, the album opens with a striking original; the earthy, laconic jazz-guitar-funk fusion of "Keep It Funky". Cleveland and co. do exactly that. Up next is a properly moving cover of Aretha Franklin's eternal "Day Dreaming". The flute and guitar combo truly achieve celestial greatness here. "Here Comes Funky Lou" rides a bassline from the Gods and a driving soul-jazz groove allows the track to go off in all sorts of directions. Serene guitar soul of the breezy variety one moment, crazy hectic violin-driven wig outs the next, courtesy of Ed Green who played with Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane.
His blistering two track salvo of Stylistics covers to close out this A-Side of A-Sides will leave your jaw dropped, and they're likely the reason you're here for this. And why not? "Betcha By Golly Wow", which uses a bed of acidy synths and harmonica to create a unique atmosphere, is on some next level business. Melancholic, wistful, beautiful. "People Make the World Go Round" is so good, dripping in wonderful horns and ace percussive breaks, it could even be regarded as the definitive version. Seriously!
Opening Side B, War's gigantic "Slipping Into Darkness" is tightly tailored to Eaton's funky flute fusion arrangement whilst the insistent "Missing You" is a swaggering horn-heavy version of Luther Ingram's track from the Dilla/Ghostface-linked LP, I've Been Here All The Time. The creeping, screeching guitar-drenched original "John's Groove" features more fantastic horn lines and neck-snapping percussion whilst "The Love Gangster", written by Bill Wyman and Stephen Stills for his seminal Manassas LP, contains a heavy break with slick drums high in the mix and fuzzy guitars.
The album closes with two more Eaton originals. Written with Johnny Guitar Watson, "Lie" is one hell of a funky string and guitar-driven gem whilst the wild, celebratory "Ah Movin' On" cleverly quotes "Wade In The Water" (which he'd recorded with Ramsey Lewis in 1966) folding it into his new free-jazz composition. A message to his old boss, perhaps, as a sign-off?
We've worked on this reissue for 3.5 years, spending the whole time making it sound super sharp and looking as perfect as it possibly can. An absolute must-have for fans of soulful jazz-funk, Half And Half was mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis and cut by Pete Norman at Final Tweak. The bizarre artwork, mutant beast and all, was restored at Be With HQ over many painstaking months! Hopefully, this new edition, a real labour of love, should bring Cleveland Eaton into the homes and record boxes of many more people.
More
Territories: Worldwide no restrictions
Track List:
A1 Keep It Funky 5:20
A2 Day Dreaming 3:36
A3 Here Comes Funky Lou 4:00
A4 Betcha By Golly Wow 4:15
A5 People Make The World Go Round 5:34
B1 Slipping Into Darkness 7:15
B2 Missing You 3:17
B3 John's Groove 2:55
B4 The Love Gangster 3:20
B5 Lie 2:15
B6 Ah Movin' On 4:00
Release Notes:
"Every cut on our albums are what we call "A" sides" - Cleveland Eaton, on Half And Half
Like the winged half-man/half-bull that dominates its outrageous cover, Cleveland Eaton's Half And Half is a mutant bass-heavy monster that absolutely slays. Incredible jazz-funk from 1973, it's been largely overlooked for decades, and unfairly so. This is just sensational music - a crate digger's delight. It's super funky throughout, with lots of layers, jazz breaks for days, dripping with style and gritty class. This is the first reissue of what has been a hard to find record for many years; it's long overdue. Joyous music for mind, soul and body.
Cleveland Eaton was a revered bassist who played an active role in the backing of Count Basie, the Donald Byrd Quintet, The Ramsey Lewis Trio, Terry Callier and Minnie Riperton; amongst many, many others. Half And Half was the first album released under his own name, initially released as a private press record on his - awkwardly named - Cle An Thair Records. It was then picked up by Gamble & Huff for Gamble Records. Varied, string-adorned and with stupid funky grooves, it's just exceptionally good.
Whilst Half And Half is treasured for its famously brilliant interpretations of gold funk-soul standards, Eaton proves an imaginative composer in his own right. Indeed, the album opens with a striking original; the earthy, laconic jazz-guitar-funk fusion of "Keep It Funky". Cleveland and co. do exactly that. Up next is a properly moving cover of Aretha Franklin's eternal "Day Dreaming". The flute and guitar combo truly achieve celestial greatness here. "Here Comes Funky Lou" rides a bassline from the Gods and a driving soul-jazz groove allows the track to go off in all sorts of directions. Serene guitar soul of the breezy variety one moment, crazy hectic violin-driven wig outs the next, courtesy of Ed Green who played with Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane.
His blistering two track salvo of Stylistics covers to close out this A-Side of A-Sides will leave your jaw dropped, and they're likely the reason you're here for this. And why not? "Betcha By Golly Wow", which uses a bed of acidy synths and harmonica to create a unique atmosphere, is on some next level business. Melancholic, wistful, beautiful. "People Make the World Go Round" is so good, dripping in wonderful horns and ace percussive breaks, it could even be regarded as the definitive version. Seriously!
Opening Side B, War's gigantic "Slipping Into Darkness" is tightly tailored to Eaton's funky flute fusion arrangement whilst the insistent "Missing You" is a swaggering horn-heavy version of Luther Ingram's track from the Dilla/Ghostface-linked LP, I've Been Here All The Time. The creeping, screeching guitar-drenched original "John's Groove" features more fantastic horn lines and neck-snapping percussion whilst "The Love Gangster", written by Bill Wyman and Stephen Stills for his seminal Manassas LP, contains a heavy break with slick drums high in the mix and fuzzy guitars.
The album closes with two more Eaton originals. Written with Johnny Guitar Watson, "Lie" is one hell of a funky string and guitar-driven gem whilst the wild, celebratory "Ah Movin' On" cleverly quotes "Wade In The Water" (which he'd recorded with Ramsey Lewis in 1966) folding it into his new free-jazz composition. A message to his old boss, perhaps, as a sign-off?
We've worked on this reissue for 3.5 years, spending the whole time making it sound super sharp and looking as perfect as it possibly can. An absolute must-have for fans of soulful jazz-funk, Half And Half was mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis and cut by Pete Norman at Final Tweak. The bizarre artwork, mutant beast and all, was restored at Be With HQ over many painstaking months! Hopefully, this new edition, a real labour of love, should bring Cleveland Eaton into the homes and record boxes of many more people.
More
1
Leon Ware - Rainbow Deux (6:57)
2
Leon Ware - Let Love In (6:14)
3
Leon Ware - Sigh (4:08)
4
Leon Ware - The Darkest Night (7:32)
5
Leon Ware - Surrender Now (6:08)
6
Leon Ware - Summer Is Her Name (4:37)
7
Leon Ware - Are You Ready (3:18)
8
Leon Ware - Streets (Keep Me Runnin’) (7:00)
9
Leon Ware - Samba Dreams (3:20)
10
Leon Ware - Let’s Go Deep (5:27)
11
Leon Ware - We Should Be Laughin’ (3:45)
12
Leon Ware - Wishful Thinking (4:00)
Format Notes: 140g vinyl, double LP, gatefold sleeve, printed inners
Territories: Worldwide no exceptions
Track List:
A1 : Rainbow Deux (6:57)
A2 : Let Love In (6:14)
A3 : Sigh (4:08)
B1 : The Darkest Night (7:32)
B2 : Surrender Now (6:08)
B3 : Summer Is Her Name (4:37)
C1 : Are You Ready (3:18)
C2 : Streets (Keep Me Runnin’) (7:00)
C3 : Samba Dreams (3:20)
D1 : Let’s Go Deep (5:27)
D2 : We Should Be Laughin’ (3:45)
D3 : Wishful Thinking (4:00)
Release Notes:
The melodically adventurous soul of Leon Ware continues its expression in his final opus Rainbow Deux, released on double vinyl on September 13th. The album features new songs recorded and performed by Leon before his health turned, leading to his transition on February 23rd 2017. Co-produced by Taylor Graves, it has stellar musical contributions from the likes of Kamasi Washington, Thundercat, Ronald Bruner Jr, Rob Bacon and Wayne Linsey.
Taylor Graves came into Leon’s musical family in 2002 when he, his brother Cameron and the Bruner brothers Ronald Jr and Stephen (Thundercat) were playing along with their schoolmate Kamasi at an L.A. jazz club. Taylor, Cameron, Ronald and Stephen became Leon’s band for his debut shows in Japan in 2002 and Taylor continued to work with Leon as his mentor and collaborator over the next 15 years.
“Leon was ALWAYS writing something or developing his musical palette” his wife Carol Ware tells us, so it’s impossible to pinpoint any single moment of Rainbow Deux’s genesis. Six of the songs go back to 2012/2013 and were released in 2014 as part of Sigh, a Japan-only CD collection heavy with Rob Bacon’s tasteful licks and Wayne Linsey’s piano vibes. The rest of the material comes from Leon’s sessions with Taylor.
Describing Leon’s and his process, here’s Taylor: “We’d start by having some great homemade food! Then a glass of wine ‘to slow down time’. After we’d have our fill and smoked our joints we’d go into his studio room to listen and create.”
The album was finished-up around August of 2016 in a back-and-forth between Leon and his go-to mastering engineer Toni Economides in the UK.
Leon worked on Rainbow Deux with life’s greatest challenge looming over him, yet it is one of his most focused and cohesive solo offerings since the 1980s. The entire record is a vibe: mellow, deep and smooth as silk. The lyrical themes are eternal, and the music is elegant, soulful and sensual.
The album opens with the hypnotic throb of “For The Rainbow”, coming on like a percussive, slow-mo house shuffle. Gilles Peterson is a fan. The exotic “Let Love In” follows, with its gradual-build Island Funk, intricate guitar picks and sassy female vocals. It explodes when it hits its stride. “Sigh” is the stylish slow jam close-out to side A. Serene guitars and polished drums create neck snapping funk, with a swaggering finger-snap strut.
Side B opens with the easy-burning broken-beaty “The Darkest Night”, the centrepiece of the album. Kamasi Washington’s lurking sax, restrained and beautiful, unfurls into the dank, sticky atmosphere of Thundercat’s signature creeping bass laid over his brother’s in-the-pocket drums. Leon’s vocals are perfect, a masterclass in seductive sax-soul.
“Surrender Now” conjures waves of vocals to swell and wash over the glossy piano, subtly bumping hip-hop drums and bubbling synth-bass stabs. It’s got the trademark Leon layers. “Summer Is Her Name” has Kamasi’s effortless, melancholic sunshine sax give way to rising tempos and propulsive rhythms.
“Are You Ready” is a total highlight (and we’ve been playing it out for ages). It’s a nimble groove of piano and synth rolling around Theo Croker’s sensual trumpet playing. Digi-soul at its finest. With lush G-Funk sensibilities “Streets (Keep Me Runnin’)” sounds like a lost Dam-Funk produced gem. All tough kicks and snares and street sounds. Leon’s hood pass will be forever intact.
“Samba Dreams” is the first of two tracks that bring a little Rio magic to Rainbow Deux. Leon created a whole body of work in partnership with Brazilian legend Marcos Valle that includes “Rockin’ You Eternally” - a hit for Leon - and “Estrelar” – a hit for Marcos. Leon channels his obvious love of Brazilian music here through more of Croker’s sumptuous trumpet, played over loose percussion. “Let’s Go Deep” is next up. A dreamy between-the-sheets quiet storm anthem and a real showcase for Leon’s vocals.
The dripping, honeyed harp-funk of “We Should Be Laughin’” marks the star turn of the brilliant Kimbra. Leon first met her on-stage to do an impromptu duet of “Inside My Love” during an open-air celebration of Minnie Riperton in July of 2014. Kimbra was working with Taylor on her music and he brought her to Leon’s house to do some writing. This was the result.
Warm synths radiate shuffling samba soul on “Wishful Thinking” as those Brazilian rhythms return to bring Rainbow Deux to a close.
During an apartment move Leon and Carol rediscovered some watercolours Leon had done years ago. One of these paintings had been dubbed “Deux Hearts” and Leon decided it should be on the cover of Rainbow Deux, getting as far as approving a draft concept for the artwork.
Carol has overseen developing that draft into the final gatefold sleeve. It brings together quotes, photographs and tributes in what is a reflection on the music, relationships and philosophy of the sensual minister.
Gerry “the gov” Brown, Leon’s long-time sound engineer, was by his side throughout the project, recording and mixing. The album was mastered by Toni Economides and Simon Francis’ additional sensitive work makes sure this double LP sounds like it should on vinyl.
Be With’s first ever release was Leon’s eponymous LP. Re-issuing that album planted the seed of a relationship that has grown to grant us the privilege of presenting his crowning achievement. We know that Leon’s fans all over the Earth will love Rainbow Deux. But we also hope that this album, the final entry in a phenomenal body of work, will reach new fans and find fresh conduits for the spirit of this oft-unsung hero of Soul.
Leon always said “they will get it when I'm gone.”
He also said that “the spirit never dies”…
More
Territories: Worldwide no exceptions
Track List:
A1 : Rainbow Deux (6:57)
A2 : Let Love In (6:14)
A3 : Sigh (4:08)
B1 : The Darkest Night (7:32)
B2 : Surrender Now (6:08)
B3 : Summer Is Her Name (4:37)
C1 : Are You Ready (3:18)
C2 : Streets (Keep Me Runnin’) (7:00)
C3 : Samba Dreams (3:20)
D1 : Let’s Go Deep (5:27)
D2 : We Should Be Laughin’ (3:45)
D3 : Wishful Thinking (4:00)
Release Notes:
The melodically adventurous soul of Leon Ware continues its expression in his final opus Rainbow Deux, released on double vinyl on September 13th. The album features new songs recorded and performed by Leon before his health turned, leading to his transition on February 23rd 2017. Co-produced by Taylor Graves, it has stellar musical contributions from the likes of Kamasi Washington, Thundercat, Ronald Bruner Jr, Rob Bacon and Wayne Linsey.
Taylor Graves came into Leon’s musical family in 2002 when he, his brother Cameron and the Bruner brothers Ronald Jr and Stephen (Thundercat) were playing along with their schoolmate Kamasi at an L.A. jazz club. Taylor, Cameron, Ronald and Stephen became Leon’s band for his debut shows in Japan in 2002 and Taylor continued to work with Leon as his mentor and collaborator over the next 15 years.
“Leon was ALWAYS writing something or developing his musical palette” his wife Carol Ware tells us, so it’s impossible to pinpoint any single moment of Rainbow Deux’s genesis. Six of the songs go back to 2012/2013 and were released in 2014 as part of Sigh, a Japan-only CD collection heavy with Rob Bacon’s tasteful licks and Wayne Linsey’s piano vibes. The rest of the material comes from Leon’s sessions with Taylor.
Describing Leon’s and his process, here’s Taylor: “We’d start by having some great homemade food! Then a glass of wine ‘to slow down time’. After we’d have our fill and smoked our joints we’d go into his studio room to listen and create.”
The album was finished-up around August of 2016 in a back-and-forth between Leon and his go-to mastering engineer Toni Economides in the UK.
Leon worked on Rainbow Deux with life’s greatest challenge looming over him, yet it is one of his most focused and cohesive solo offerings since the 1980s. The entire record is a vibe: mellow, deep and smooth as silk. The lyrical themes are eternal, and the music is elegant, soulful and sensual.
The album opens with the hypnotic throb of “For The Rainbow”, coming on like a percussive, slow-mo house shuffle. Gilles Peterson is a fan. The exotic “Let Love In” follows, with its gradual-build Island Funk, intricate guitar picks and sassy female vocals. It explodes when it hits its stride. “Sigh” is the stylish slow jam close-out to side A. Serene guitars and polished drums create neck snapping funk, with a swaggering finger-snap strut.
Side B opens with the easy-burning broken-beaty “The Darkest Night”, the centrepiece of the album. Kamasi Washington’s lurking sax, restrained and beautiful, unfurls into the dank, sticky atmosphere of Thundercat’s signature creeping bass laid over his brother’s in-the-pocket drums. Leon’s vocals are perfect, a masterclass in seductive sax-soul.
“Surrender Now” conjures waves of vocals to swell and wash over the glossy piano, subtly bumping hip-hop drums and bubbling synth-bass stabs. It’s got the trademark Leon layers. “Summer Is Her Name” has Kamasi’s effortless, melancholic sunshine sax give way to rising tempos and propulsive rhythms.
“Are You Ready” is a total highlight (and we’ve been playing it out for ages). It’s a nimble groove of piano and synth rolling around Theo Croker’s sensual trumpet playing. Digi-soul at its finest. With lush G-Funk sensibilities “Streets (Keep Me Runnin’)” sounds like a lost Dam-Funk produced gem. All tough kicks and snares and street sounds. Leon’s hood pass will be forever intact.
“Samba Dreams” is the first of two tracks that bring a little Rio magic to Rainbow Deux. Leon created a whole body of work in partnership with Brazilian legend Marcos Valle that includes “Rockin’ You Eternally” - a hit for Leon - and “Estrelar” – a hit for Marcos. Leon channels his obvious love of Brazilian music here through more of Croker’s sumptuous trumpet, played over loose percussion. “Let’s Go Deep” is next up. A dreamy between-the-sheets quiet storm anthem and a real showcase for Leon’s vocals.
The dripping, honeyed harp-funk of “We Should Be Laughin’” marks the star turn of the brilliant Kimbra. Leon first met her on-stage to do an impromptu duet of “Inside My Love” during an open-air celebration of Minnie Riperton in July of 2014. Kimbra was working with Taylor on her music and he brought her to Leon’s house to do some writing. This was the result.
Warm synths radiate shuffling samba soul on “Wishful Thinking” as those Brazilian rhythms return to bring Rainbow Deux to a close.
During an apartment move Leon and Carol rediscovered some watercolours Leon had done years ago. One of these paintings had been dubbed “Deux Hearts” and Leon decided it should be on the cover of Rainbow Deux, getting as far as approving a draft concept for the artwork.
Carol has overseen developing that draft into the final gatefold sleeve. It brings together quotes, photographs and tributes in what is a reflection on the music, relationships and philosophy of the sensual minister.
Gerry “the gov” Brown, Leon’s long-time sound engineer, was by his side throughout the project, recording and mixing. The album was mastered by Toni Economides and Simon Francis’ additional sensitive work makes sure this double LP sounds like it should on vinyl.
Be With’s first ever release was Leon’s eponymous LP. Re-issuing that album planted the seed of a relationship that has grown to grant us the privilege of presenting his crowning achievement. We know that Leon’s fans all over the Earth will love Rainbow Deux. But we also hope that this album, the final entry in a phenomenal body of work, will reach new fans and find fresh conduits for the spirit of this oft-unsung hero of Soul.
Leon always said “they will get it when I'm gone.”
He also said that “the spirit never dies”…
More
1
DJ "S" - Groovin'
2
DJ "S" - Sweet Love
3
DJ "S" - Back again
4
DJ "S" - U
Super smooth 4 track EP, limited silver 10 Inch. What an exciting moment, when you can work with one of the legends of the game. Greek producer DJ "S" is one of the early Edit producers around, and with his own downbeat sound he quickly became one of the big names in the European Disco scene. He perfected his craft as a multi-talented music producer, experimenting with vintage black sounds and reviving old-classics in the form of remixes which made a serious impact among the internet and on his YouTube Channel which counts thousands (over 260k) of faithful followers!
A1 Dj "S" - Groovin'
A2 Dj "S" - Sweet Love
B1 Dj "S" - Back again
B2 Dj "S" - U
More
A1 Dj "S" - Groovin'
A2 Dj "S" - Sweet Love
B1 Dj "S" - Back again
B2 Dj "S" - U
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