1
Souls Of Mischief - 93 ‘Til Infinity (Vocal)
2
Souls Of Mischief - 93 ‘Til Infinity (Instrumental)
Repress!
A: 93 ‘Til Infinity (Vocal) / B: 93 ‘Til Infinity (Instrumental)
While the Souls of Mischief never sold the kind of numbers that would elevate them to a huge audience, for the hip-hop cognoscenti their 1993 album 93 'Til Infinity and the singles it spawned are nothing but classic.
Showcasing a fluent, loose-limbed rhyme style as Tajai, Opio, A-Plus and Phesto combined and bounced off each other, the Souls were part of the wider eclectic hip-hop collective Hieroglyphics, where they were joined by Del tha Funkee Homosapien and Casual, among others. All of them proved to be compelling, unique MC’s with a light touch, and both this single and the same year’s ‘That’s When Ya Lost’ were fan favourites from the off.
It’s built around a handful of different samples from Billy Cobham’s ‘Heather’, which are cleverly connected together and underpinned by a Graham Central Station drum break made indelible by everyone from the Geto Boys to Bizmarkie on ‘Pickin’ Boogers’. As a result it stands in contrast to much of the grimy, headnod hip-hop of the time, providing a melodic, lightly jazzy counterpoint that draws you in to the sinuous lyrics.
There’s no great message in the music, just four MC’s elevating the art of bragging to show you how the west coast rocks it. This is the first time the original album version has been available on 7”, with the instrumental on the flip a must if you’re practicing this for hip-hop karaoke… More
A: 93 ‘Til Infinity (Vocal) / B: 93 ‘Til Infinity (Instrumental)
While the Souls of Mischief never sold the kind of numbers that would elevate them to a huge audience, for the hip-hop cognoscenti their 1993 album 93 'Til Infinity and the singles it spawned are nothing but classic.
Showcasing a fluent, loose-limbed rhyme style as Tajai, Opio, A-Plus and Phesto combined and bounced off each other, the Souls were part of the wider eclectic hip-hop collective Hieroglyphics, where they were joined by Del tha Funkee Homosapien and Casual, among others. All of them proved to be compelling, unique MC’s with a light touch, and both this single and the same year’s ‘That’s When Ya Lost’ were fan favourites from the off.
It’s built around a handful of different samples from Billy Cobham’s ‘Heather’, which are cleverly connected together and underpinned by a Graham Central Station drum break made indelible by everyone from the Geto Boys to Bizmarkie on ‘Pickin’ Boogers’. As a result it stands in contrast to much of the grimy, headnod hip-hop of the time, providing a melodic, lightly jazzy counterpoint that draws you in to the sinuous lyrics.
There’s no great message in the music, just four MC’s elevating the art of bragging to show you how the west coast rocks it. This is the first time the original album version has been available on 7”, with the instrumental on the flip a must if you’re practicing this for hip-hop karaoke… More
More records from Mr Bongo
1
Elza Soares - Mas Que Nada
2
Elizabeth - Vou Falar-Lhe Francamente
Back in stock due to popular demand, the 12th release in our signature Brazil 45’s series saw a reissue of two certified classics from Brazil’s rich musical tapestry.
On the A side, Brazilian Samba luminary Elza Soares, covers Jorge Ben’s classic ‘Mas Que Nada’. Originally featured on her brilliant 1970 Sambas & Mais Sambas LP on Odeon, it’s tougher drums, punchy piano and Elza’s stunning vocal tones make this a perfect dancefloor heater. With over 34 albums to her name in a career that spanned 60 years, Elza is a certified legend of Brazilian music.
Little is known about the artist responsible for the B side track, Elizabeth. Nicknamed ‘Gatinha do Mato’ (loosely translated as ‘Jungle Cat’) she was involved in the Jovem Guarda movement that fused rock n roll and youth culture with Brazilian styles in the ‘60s.
‘Vou Falar-Lhe Francamente’ is a majestic, horn-infused number laced with emotion, that we originally found at one of our favourite, now defunct, spots ‘Tony’s Hits’ in Sao Paulo. The record was originally released on 7” on RGE in 1970. More
On the A side, Brazilian Samba luminary Elza Soares, covers Jorge Ben’s classic ‘Mas Que Nada’. Originally featured on her brilliant 1970 Sambas & Mais Sambas LP on Odeon, it’s tougher drums, punchy piano and Elza’s stunning vocal tones make this a perfect dancefloor heater. With over 34 albums to her name in a career that spanned 60 years, Elza is a certified legend of Brazilian music.
Little is known about the artist responsible for the B side track, Elizabeth. Nicknamed ‘Gatinha do Mato’ (loosely translated as ‘Jungle Cat’) she was involved in the Jovem Guarda movement that fused rock n roll and youth culture with Brazilian styles in the ‘60s.
‘Vou Falar-Lhe Francamente’ is a majestic, horn-infused number laced with emotion, that we originally found at one of our favourite, now defunct, spots ‘Tony’s Hits’ in Sao Paulo. The record was originally released on 7” on RGE in 1970. More
1
Elys Camargo - Taieiras
2
Trio Esperança - Não Aguento Você
Back in stock due to popular demand, the 18th release in our signature Brazil 45’s series saw Elys Camargo’s ‘Taieiras’ and ‘Não Aguento Você’ by Trio Esperança issued for the first time on 7”.
First up, ‘Taieiras’ from Elys Camargo’s 1972 album Cantos Da Minha Gente on RCA. An infectious, folk-leaning, call and response number that transports you instantly to Brazil. Although Elys recorded 12 albums between 1960 and 1983, little is known about her. DJ Yoda sampled ‘Taieiras’ in his 2012 track ‘U No Likey Like That’ featuring Roots Manuva and Kid Creole & The Coconuts.
On the B side, ‘Não Aguento Você’ by Trio Esperança. A Rio vocal trio formed by siblings Mário, Regina and Evinha Correia José Maria (the latter of which recorded the stunning classic, ‘Esperar Pra Ver’), whose three older brothers we’re The Golden Boys.
‘Não Aguento Você’ is a sun-kissed, psychedelic stunner, taken from their self-titled 1971 album. The original line up recorded seven albums for Odeon Brazil between 1963 and 1975. More
First up, ‘Taieiras’ from Elys Camargo’s 1972 album Cantos Da Minha Gente on RCA. An infectious, folk-leaning, call and response number that transports you instantly to Brazil. Although Elys recorded 12 albums between 1960 and 1983, little is known about her. DJ Yoda sampled ‘Taieiras’ in his 2012 track ‘U No Likey Like That’ featuring Roots Manuva and Kid Creole & The Coconuts.
On the B side, ‘Não Aguento Você’ by Trio Esperança. A Rio vocal trio formed by siblings Mário, Regina and Evinha Correia José Maria (the latter of which recorded the stunning classic, ‘Esperar Pra Ver’), whose three older brothers we’re The Golden Boys.
‘Não Aguento Você’ is a sun-kissed, psychedelic stunner, taken from their self-titled 1971 album. The original line up recorded seven albums for Odeon Brazil between 1963 and 1975. More
1
Wilson Das Neves - Pick Up The Pieces
2
Som Três - Tanga
Back in stock due to popular demand, the 19th release in our signature Brazil 45’s series shone a light on Wilson das Neves’ brilliant cover of Average White Band’s ‘Pick Up The Pieces’ and an all-time Mr Bongo Brazilian funk favourite in the form of Som Três – Tanga.
Wilson das Neves was a legendary Brazilian percussionist most well known for being part of Os Ipanemas. The A side of this 7” houses his cover of Average White Band’s ‘Pick Up The Pieces’ recorded with his ‘conjunto’ ensemble. It takes the track into funky samba territory, laden with percussion and horns. Originally released on the Som Quente É O Das Neves LP in 1969.
On the flip side, a Mr Bongo all-time Brazilian funk favourite. Blistering drums, feverish vocals and peaking piano packed into just over 2 minutes. Som Três were a trio formed by prolific pianist, arranger and producer Cesar Camargo Mariano. ‘Tanga’ originally appeared on the Um É Pouco, Dois É Bom, Este Som Três É Demais LP on Odeon Brazil in 1970.
Both of these Brazilian beauties were previously unreleased on 7”. More
Wilson das Neves was a legendary Brazilian percussionist most well known for being part of Os Ipanemas. The A side of this 7” houses his cover of Average White Band’s ‘Pick Up The Pieces’ recorded with his ‘conjunto’ ensemble. It takes the track into funky samba territory, laden with percussion and horns. Originally released on the Som Quente É O Das Neves LP in 1969.
On the flip side, a Mr Bongo all-time Brazilian funk favourite. Blistering drums, feverish vocals and peaking piano packed into just over 2 minutes. Som Três were a trio formed by prolific pianist, arranger and producer Cesar Camargo Mariano. ‘Tanga’ originally appeared on the Um É Pouco, Dois É Bom, Este Som Três É Demais LP on Odeon Brazil in 1970.
Both of these Brazilian beauties were previously unreleased on 7”. More
1
The Medium Wave Band - So Tender
2
The Medium Wave Band - Games (Instrumental)
Sourcing rare records to reissue can involve meticulous research and years of digging, but then occasionally, Lady Luck smiles upon you. We probably would have never heard of the Medium Wave Band if Gary from Mr Bongo hadn't known Wolverhampton-based record dealer, Steve Ward. Whilst offering Gary some records for sale, he remembered he had a spare copy of an old 7" single that he thought Gary might like. Steve didn't know much about the release, and it had never sold on Discogs. Looking at the record itself, it was minimalist in appearance and information, there wasn't much to go on other than that it was from the Birmingham area. The mystery drew us in…
The A-side, 'So Tender’, is a late-night, jazzy slow-jam, with beautifully sultry, soulful female vocals which sounded vaguely familiar. On listening to the B side, 'Games (Instrumental)’, you are rewarded with a superb example of Britfunk / independent UK jazz-funk. The pulsating, bass-led dancefloor groove and sensibility is a sound reminiscent of productions usually found on labels such as Elite, but the 7” was not released on a label, it was a private press by the band themselves. So who are the enigmatic The Medium Wave Band?
After some fruitful internet digging and correspondence, we got the answers. The band lineup featured Elliot Browne on guitar (lead & rhythm), Ron Lyseight on guitar (rhythm), Andrew Proverbs on keyboards, Tony Peart on drums, Paul Snook on bass, Linton Levy on saxophone, and surprisingly, the beautiful vocals we had been enjoying were those of Jackie Graham, aka the hugely successful UK vocalist, Jaki Graham. Maybe best known for her pop hit with David Grant, 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', but also featuring on the cult classic track 'Fire In My Heart' by Escape From New York.
Influenced by artists and bands including George Benson, Ronnie Laws, Weather Report, George Duke, Azimuth and Chick Corea to name a few, the guys booked into a studio near the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham and recorded the two tracks that make up this 7”. Only 200 copies of the original 7" were ever pressed and were sold mostly in Birmingham at Summit Records by the band’s friend DJ Frenchi, as well as at live shows. Despite its limited distribution channels, the record received solid support from fans and those in the music industry, including Morgan Khan of the influential record label, Street Sounds. DJ and journalist, Lindsay Wesker, reviewed the release and this led to the band travelling to London for several radio interviews. They played live shows across the country, including at the prestigious Ronnie Scott's in London, and supported both Shakatak and Weapon of Peace in Birmingham.
Thanks to all those involved bringing this release into fruition and for solving the mystery behind a wonderful Britfunk and UK soul record that could have otherwise been lost in the mists of time. More
The A-side, 'So Tender’, is a late-night, jazzy slow-jam, with beautifully sultry, soulful female vocals which sounded vaguely familiar. On listening to the B side, 'Games (Instrumental)’, you are rewarded with a superb example of Britfunk / independent UK jazz-funk. The pulsating, bass-led dancefloor groove and sensibility is a sound reminiscent of productions usually found on labels such as Elite, but the 7” was not released on a label, it was a private press by the band themselves. So who are the enigmatic The Medium Wave Band?
After some fruitful internet digging and correspondence, we got the answers. The band lineup featured Elliot Browne on guitar (lead & rhythm), Ron Lyseight on guitar (rhythm), Andrew Proverbs on keyboards, Tony Peart on drums, Paul Snook on bass, Linton Levy on saxophone, and surprisingly, the beautiful vocals we had been enjoying were those of Jackie Graham, aka the hugely successful UK vocalist, Jaki Graham. Maybe best known for her pop hit with David Grant, 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', but also featuring on the cult classic track 'Fire In My Heart' by Escape From New York.
Influenced by artists and bands including George Benson, Ronnie Laws, Weather Report, George Duke, Azimuth and Chick Corea to name a few, the guys booked into a studio near the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham and recorded the two tracks that make up this 7”. Only 200 copies of the original 7" were ever pressed and were sold mostly in Birmingham at Summit Records by the band’s friend DJ Frenchi, as well as at live shows. Despite its limited distribution channels, the record received solid support from fans and those in the music industry, including Morgan Khan of the influential record label, Street Sounds. DJ and journalist, Lindsay Wesker, reviewed the release and this led to the band travelling to London for several radio interviews. They played live shows across the country, including at the prestigious Ronnie Scott's in London, and supported both Shakatak and Weapon of Peace in Birmingham.
Thanks to all those involved bringing this release into fruition and for solving the mystery behind a wonderful Britfunk and UK soul record that could have otherwise been lost in the mists of time. More
1
Ananda Shankar - Streets Of Calcutta
2
Ananda Shankar - Cyrus
3
Ananda Shankar - The Lonely Rider
4
Ananda Shankar - The River
5
Ananda Shankar - Vidai (Parting)
6
Ananda Shankar - Back Home
7
Ananda Shankar - Dawn
8
Ananda Shankar - Renunciation
9
Ananda Shankar - Dancing Drums
Mr Bongo proudly presents an official reissue of an iconic, exploratory album by Indian maestro of the sitar, Ananda Shankar, aptly titled 'Ananda Shankar And His Music'.
Released on His Master's Voice in 1976, the album is a sublime collage of sitar-funk, traditional Indian classical music and psychedelic grooves, from the Indian sitarist, composer and musician. Nephew to India’s legendary sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar, Ananda’s musical family and upbringing led to a deep respect and love of the wealth of music that emanated from his birthplace. His travels to the west coast of America in the late ‘60s though, saw Shankar immersed in the full swing of psychedelic rock. The collision of these two musical worlds with a whole range of other Eastern and Western influences on 'Ananda Shankar And His Music', is a truly entrancing combination.
First big in the UK in the mid-‘90s jazz/rare groove club scene, when it was unearthed by adventurous DJs and crate diggers, the sensational Indian-funk tracks 'Streets Of Calcutta' and 'Dancing Drums' became firm dancefloor favourites. The mixture of drum-heavy funk with Indian music and psychedelia is the perfect melting pot. Flavourful and balanced, it still feels fresh and exciting nearly 50 years on.
Like a fine wine, this album keeps getting better with age and once-overlooked tracks are now seen in a new light. Aside from the main 'club' cuts that many have praised and loved, 'The River' is a part blissed-out, Balearic gem, part cosmic wild west soundtrack, that would provide the perfect complement to any sunset session. Elsewhere, 'Dawn' is a spiritual and meditative journey into Indian classical music, with ‘Cyrus’ floating you away to heavenly heights. On a different tip, 'Back Home' fuses styles and themes via an organ and Moog-infused, tripped-out excursion, whilst 'Renunciation' hits with a psych-rock sentiment to its sitar-soaked grooves.
A beautiful time capsule of Eastern culture meets Western influence, where experimentation and intrigue produced a fusion of sounds that still sound as vibrant and alluring as they have ever been.
Vinyl LP features a tip-on sleeve. More
Released on His Master's Voice in 1976, the album is a sublime collage of sitar-funk, traditional Indian classical music and psychedelic grooves, from the Indian sitarist, composer and musician. Nephew to India’s legendary sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar, Ananda’s musical family and upbringing led to a deep respect and love of the wealth of music that emanated from his birthplace. His travels to the west coast of America in the late ‘60s though, saw Shankar immersed in the full swing of psychedelic rock. The collision of these two musical worlds with a whole range of other Eastern and Western influences on 'Ananda Shankar And His Music', is a truly entrancing combination.
First big in the UK in the mid-‘90s jazz/rare groove club scene, when it was unearthed by adventurous DJs and crate diggers, the sensational Indian-funk tracks 'Streets Of Calcutta' and 'Dancing Drums' became firm dancefloor favourites. The mixture of drum-heavy funk with Indian music and psychedelia is the perfect melting pot. Flavourful and balanced, it still feels fresh and exciting nearly 50 years on.
Like a fine wine, this album keeps getting better with age and once-overlooked tracks are now seen in a new light. Aside from the main 'club' cuts that many have praised and loved, 'The River' is a part blissed-out, Balearic gem, part cosmic wild west soundtrack, that would provide the perfect complement to any sunset session. Elsewhere, 'Dawn' is a spiritual and meditative journey into Indian classical music, with ‘Cyrus’ floating you away to heavenly heights. On a different tip, 'Back Home' fuses styles and themes via an organ and Moog-infused, tripped-out excursion, whilst 'Renunciation' hits with a psych-rock sentiment to its sitar-soaked grooves.
A beautiful time capsule of Eastern culture meets Western influence, where experimentation and intrigue produced a fusion of sounds that still sound as vibrant and alluring as they have ever been.
Vinyl LP features a tip-on sleeve. More
1
Jorge Ben - Curumin Chama Cunhã Tã Que Eu Vou Contar (Todo Dia Era Dia De Indio)
2
Jorge Ben - Rio Babilônia
Back in stock due to popular demand. The 80th release in our Brazil 45 series, aptly focusses on the breathtaking 1980s recordings of one of Brazil’s musical giants, Jorge Ben. With this 45, you are treated to a double dose of classic cuts from the master in the form of, 'Curumin Chama Cunhãtã Que Eu Vou Contar (Todo Dia Era Dia De Índio) and ‘Rio Babilônia’.
First up is the addictive, bubbling, sun-kissed grooves of 'Curumin Chama Cunhãtã Que Eu Vou Contar (Todo Dia Era Dia De Índio)’. Taken from the 1981 Bem-Vinda Amizade album originally released on Som Livre ?Records, its tangible warmth soaks into every fibre of your body. A sentimental homage to the indigenous people and tribes of Brazil, this is quintessential Jorge Ben.
The flip features one of Jorge's most beloved Brazilian boogie joints, 'Rio Babilônia’. A joyous mid-tempo joint celebrating life in Rio, its feel-good flavour and the city’s iconic monuments, with a swaggering synth bass that struts out over Copacabana beach. Originally released on a compacto and taken from the Dádiva album from 1983, there are no surprises that it features arrangements from the late-great, Lincoln Olivetti. More
First up is the addictive, bubbling, sun-kissed grooves of 'Curumin Chama Cunhãtã Que Eu Vou Contar (Todo Dia Era Dia De Índio)’. Taken from the 1981 Bem-Vinda Amizade album originally released on Som Livre ?Records, its tangible warmth soaks into every fibre of your body. A sentimental homage to the indigenous people and tribes of Brazil, this is quintessential Jorge Ben.
The flip features one of Jorge's most beloved Brazilian boogie joints, 'Rio Babilônia’. A joyous mid-tempo joint celebrating life in Rio, its feel-good flavour and the city’s iconic monuments, with a swaggering synth bass that struts out over Copacabana beach. Originally released on a compacto and taken from the Dádiva album from 1983, there are no surprises that it features arrangements from the late-great, Lincoln Olivetti. More
1
João Bosco - O Ronco Da Cuica
2
Antonio Adolfo E A Brazuca - Transamazônica
Back in stock due to popular demand, the 11th release in our signature Brazil 45’s series came in the form of João Bosco - O Ronco Da Cuica and Antonio Adolfo E A Brazuca – Transamazônica. Two jewels from Brazil’s rich musical heritage.
On the A side, prolific guitarist João Bosco’s MPB masterpiece ‘O Ronco Da Cuica’. Originally appearing on his 1976 ‘Galos de Briga’ LP released on RCA Brazil, it had yet to have had an official 7” release. It’s an intoxicating blend of passionate vocals, feverish cuica and deftly picked acoustic guitar.
On the flip, Antonio Adolfo E A Brazuca’s track ‘Transamazonica’ is an all-time classic Brazilian jazz fusion gem. Taken from the hard-to-find 1971 self-titled LP on Odeon Brazil, it again had never been released on 7”. Adolfo was the founder of Trio 3-D and later played with Elis Regina. More
On the A side, prolific guitarist João Bosco’s MPB masterpiece ‘O Ronco Da Cuica’. Originally appearing on his 1976 ‘Galos de Briga’ LP released on RCA Brazil, it had yet to have had an official 7” release. It’s an intoxicating blend of passionate vocals, feverish cuica and deftly picked acoustic guitar.
On the flip, Antonio Adolfo E A Brazuca’s track ‘Transamazonica’ is an all-time classic Brazilian jazz fusion gem. Taken from the hard-to-find 1971 self-titled LP on Odeon Brazil, it again had never been released on 7”. Adolfo was the founder of Trio 3-D and later played with Elis Regina. More
1
Noriel Vilela - 16 Toneladas
2
Juca Chaves - Take Me Back To Piauí
We’ve taken a selection of the most in-demand and asked-for titles in our Brazil 45’s catalogue and given them a loving repress. Marking the third release in our now signature series, we shone the light on two sought-after tracks from Noriel Vilela and Juca Chaves.
On the A side, originally released in 1971 on Copacabana Records, Noriel Vilela's 1971 cover of Tennessee Ernice Ford's '16 Tons'. Ford’s 1955 original was a classic American pop-country-folk song, that Noriel masterfully flipped it into a low-slung, deeply toned samba groover.
On the B side Juca Chaves classic 'Take Me Back To Piaui' was released on 7" by RGE In 1970 and features on his album 'Muito Vivo' from 1972. Sublime orchestration, velvety vocals and the instantly uplifting cuica tones, make this a must-have Brazilian cut. Chaves was an active critic of the Brazilian military dictatorship, and like Veloso and Gil, was exiled in the early 1970s, to Portugal and later Italy. More
On the A side, originally released in 1971 on Copacabana Records, Noriel Vilela's 1971 cover of Tennessee Ernice Ford's '16 Tons'. Ford’s 1955 original was a classic American pop-country-folk song, that Noriel masterfully flipped it into a low-slung, deeply toned samba groover.
On the B side Juca Chaves classic 'Take Me Back To Piaui' was released on 7" by RGE In 1970 and features on his album 'Muito Vivo' from 1972. Sublime orchestration, velvety vocals and the instantly uplifting cuica tones, make this a must-have Brazilian cut. Chaves was an active critic of the Brazilian military dictatorship, and like Veloso and Gil, was exiled in the early 1970s, to Portugal and later Italy. More
1
Claudia - Deixa eu Dizer
2
Cizinha - Pra Fazer Um Samba
Back in stock due to popular demand, the first ever release in our iconic Brazil 45's imprint!
Kicking off a series that has now clocked in over 100 releases, it all began with this stunning double header highlighting two essential Brazilian tracks from Claudia and Cizinha.
Claudia’s 'Deixa Eu Dizer' is an absolute must have Brazilian record. A timeless voice that lifts this beautiful MPB track to stratospheric heights. As sampled by Marcelo D2 on one of our favourite Brazilian hip hop records 'Desafabo', the track features on Claudia’s stunning album of the same name and had never been released on 7" until this point.
On the flip, a sun dappled, heartfelt and hard to come by track from Cizinha. Originally released on Rozenblit in 1968, it had been, and more importantly still is, a firm favourite of ours. Shimmering horns, deft flutes and a tight percussion section providing the perfect basis to this sweet samba groove. More
Kicking off a series that has now clocked in over 100 releases, it all began with this stunning double header highlighting two essential Brazilian tracks from Claudia and Cizinha.
Claudia’s 'Deixa Eu Dizer' is an absolute must have Brazilian record. A timeless voice that lifts this beautiful MPB track to stratospheric heights. As sampled by Marcelo D2 on one of our favourite Brazilian hip hop records 'Desafabo', the track features on Claudia’s stunning album of the same name and had never been released on 7" until this point.
On the flip, a sun dappled, heartfelt and hard to come by track from Cizinha. Originally released on Rozenblit in 1968, it had been, and more importantly still is, a firm favourite of ours. Shimmering horns, deft flutes and a tight percussion section providing the perfect basis to this sweet samba groove. More
1
SOYUZ - If You Ask
2
SOYUZ - Tenório
LISTEN:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNzgGge77UI
www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXdRUA1_lO8
Proudly presenting, ‘If You Ask’, a brand new, blissed-out pop production with a ‘70s AOR touch, by the ever-on-point SOYUZ. Coming at a period between albums, the single features guest appearances from the sensational musicians, Biel Basile (O Terno, Sessa) and Anthony Ferraro (Toro Y Moi, Astronauts, etc.). Friends of the band, they add their signature touch on the drums and synth respectively. To complete the package, SOYUZ back the title track with a short but sweet, Wurlitzer-laden, MPB-tinged number, ‘Teno´rio’.
‘If You Ask’ tells the story of lost dreams. A track that can be interpreted either as a bittersweet longing for childhood times, or for a native place you can’t return to. For the writer Alex Chumak he suggests, "In my case, as in the case of many Belarusians, it’s both".
For this song, Alex chose to sing in his native Belarusian tongue. As he explains this language "to me feels underrepresented in pop music, also it’s a beautiful legacy and sonority that I wanted to share with the listeners of our project around the world". One of the key inspirations was a Belarusian band Pesniary, who produced a host of great progressive folk, jazz fusion and AOR, from the ‘70s to the ‘90s, predominantly sung in Belarusian.
Another key influence was the music coming out of the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais in the ‘70s, drawing inspiration from the sentimental and harmonious music of Beto Guedes, Lô Borges, Fernando Oly and Wagner Tiso.
Having parted ways with their drummer Anton, SOYUZ needed to find a new way to produce songs. The answer was to go remotely. Alex contacted the brilliant Biel Basile, who had recorded Sessa's contemporary classic ‘Estrela Acesa’, in which Alex also participated. Utilising Biel and Sessa’s newly built studio in São Paulo, SOYUZ had Biel record the drums directly to tape to get the rich sound they were after. Adding the final magic into the mix, California’s Anthony Ferraro provided a beautiful Solina String Ensemble synth arrangement, with drummer/recording engineer Albert Karch expertly assisting with the production.
To capture the essence of the single visually, Alex and the Brazilian one-man-industry visual artist Gabriel Rolim, spent a blazing sunny May day in Berlin shooting film and stills – one of which became the perfect cover image. We hope you enjoy this little nugget of SOYUZ mastery, a sweet taster to savour while the new album is recorded. More
www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNzgGge77UI
www.youtube.com/watch?v=wXdRUA1_lO8
Proudly presenting, ‘If You Ask’, a brand new, blissed-out pop production with a ‘70s AOR touch, by the ever-on-point SOYUZ. Coming at a period between albums, the single features guest appearances from the sensational musicians, Biel Basile (O Terno, Sessa) and Anthony Ferraro (Toro Y Moi, Astronauts, etc.). Friends of the band, they add their signature touch on the drums and synth respectively. To complete the package, SOYUZ back the title track with a short but sweet, Wurlitzer-laden, MPB-tinged number, ‘Teno´rio’.
‘If You Ask’ tells the story of lost dreams. A track that can be interpreted either as a bittersweet longing for childhood times, or for a native place you can’t return to. For the writer Alex Chumak he suggests, "In my case, as in the case of many Belarusians, it’s both".
For this song, Alex chose to sing in his native Belarusian tongue. As he explains this language "to me feels underrepresented in pop music, also it’s a beautiful legacy and sonority that I wanted to share with the listeners of our project around the world". One of the key inspirations was a Belarusian band Pesniary, who produced a host of great progressive folk, jazz fusion and AOR, from the ‘70s to the ‘90s, predominantly sung in Belarusian.
Another key influence was the music coming out of the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais in the ‘70s, drawing inspiration from the sentimental and harmonious music of Beto Guedes, Lô Borges, Fernando Oly and Wagner Tiso.
Having parted ways with their drummer Anton, SOYUZ needed to find a new way to produce songs. The answer was to go remotely. Alex contacted the brilliant Biel Basile, who had recorded Sessa's contemporary classic ‘Estrela Acesa’, in which Alex also participated. Utilising Biel and Sessa’s newly built studio in São Paulo, SOYUZ had Biel record the drums directly to tape to get the rich sound they were after. Adding the final magic into the mix, California’s Anthony Ferraro provided a beautiful Solina String Ensemble synth arrangement, with drummer/recording engineer Albert Karch expertly assisting with the production.
To capture the essence of the single visually, Alex and the Brazilian one-man-industry visual artist Gabriel Rolim, spent a blazing sunny May day in Berlin shooting film and stills – one of which became the perfect cover image. We hope you enjoy this little nugget of SOYUZ mastery, a sweet taster to savour while the new album is recorded. More
1
Pearly Queen - Quit Jive’ In
2
Pearly Queen - Jungle Walk
Proudly presenting a 7-inch reissue of this mythical, raw funk rarity by the Miami-based, Cuban rock band, Pearly Queen. Featuring the hugely sought after, infectious cut ‘Quit Jive’ In’ and a fantastic cover of The Rascals ‘Jungle Walk’, this is a double header of mid ‘70s funk fire.
Originally released on Cuban record producer Manuel J. Mato’s Sound Triangle Records in 1974, who had emigrated to the US in 1960, this scarce funk gem has long been a prized funk 45 find. DJs and collectors such as Keb Darge and Jazzman Gerald brought this to our attention in the 1990s, with the status of the track amplified by its inclusion on DJ Shadow & Cut Chemist's landmark 7" DJ mix ‘Brainfreeze’. DJ Shadow, also used the drums and horns break to masterful effect on his track 'The Number Song' (1996) taken from his infamous 'Endtroducing.....' album on Mo Wax.
Written by Ray Fernandez of Ray & His Court fame, 'Quit Jive' In' is a swaggering funk throwdown, dripping in groove and underpinned by heavy breaks and punchy horns. Whilst on the B side, the rock-funk 'Jungle Walk', is a cover version of The Rascals 1972 original. Penned by the singer, songwriter and guitarist Buzzy Feiten, it wouldn’t be out of place as part of the soundtrack to a Tarantino movie.
We can't think of many deep funk tracks we love as much as this beauty. Sadly, for collectors, this original 7" has remained elusive to even some of the most hardened and dedicated diggers, so it feels a fitting release to re-issue for all to savour. More
Originally released on Cuban record producer Manuel J. Mato’s Sound Triangle Records in 1974, who had emigrated to the US in 1960, this scarce funk gem has long been a prized funk 45 find. DJs and collectors such as Keb Darge and Jazzman Gerald brought this to our attention in the 1990s, with the status of the track amplified by its inclusion on DJ Shadow & Cut Chemist's landmark 7" DJ mix ‘Brainfreeze’. DJ Shadow, also used the drums and horns break to masterful effect on his track 'The Number Song' (1996) taken from his infamous 'Endtroducing.....' album on Mo Wax.
Written by Ray Fernandez of Ray & His Court fame, 'Quit Jive' In' is a swaggering funk throwdown, dripping in groove and underpinned by heavy breaks and punchy horns. Whilst on the B side, the rock-funk 'Jungle Walk', is a cover version of The Rascals 1972 original. Penned by the singer, songwriter and guitarist Buzzy Feiten, it wouldn’t be out of place as part of the soundtrack to a Tarantino movie.
We can't think of many deep funk tracks we love as much as this beauty. Sadly, for collectors, this original 7" has remained elusive to even some of the most hardened and dedicated diggers, so it feels a fitting release to re-issue for all to savour. More
1
Di Melo - Kilariô
2
Di Melo - Pernalongo
Brazil 45, number 83.
For number 83 in the Brazil 45 series, we pulled out a real treat. It features two tracks from Roberto De Melo Santos. Born in 1949 in Recife (Brazil), and despite a small discography, he is considered among the true icons of Brazilian soul music under his artist alias, Di Melo.
His self-titled debut album from 1975 has long been collectible for its irresistible Brazilian-funk sound, pleasing the Brazilian, B-Boy breaks, funk collectors, and sample hunters alike. With original copies for the album now fetching crazy sums, we felt these tracks needed another moment in the sun for all to enjoy.
For this release we selected two of our favourite cuts from this cult album, ‘Kilariô' and ‘Pernalonga'. Coincidentally these two gems were released on Odeon Records in 1975 as a rare promo campacto (a Brazilian 7", which plays at 33rpm). 'Kilariô' is a pure Brazilian-soul classic. All the right elements gel together, whilst Di Melo works his relaxed vocal magic over the top. ‘Pernalonga', with its catchy guitar and horns intro, loose break-beat drum, has the feel-good factor which some may recognize as one of the samples behind N.A.S.A featuring David Byrne, & Chali 2na's 'The People Tree' from 2009.
Di Melo is still recording to this day, releasing an album with Cotonete on Favorite Recordings in 2019 - a true don. More
For number 83 in the Brazil 45 series, we pulled out a real treat. It features two tracks from Roberto De Melo Santos. Born in 1949 in Recife (Brazil), and despite a small discography, he is considered among the true icons of Brazilian soul music under his artist alias, Di Melo.
His self-titled debut album from 1975 has long been collectible for its irresistible Brazilian-funk sound, pleasing the Brazilian, B-Boy breaks, funk collectors, and sample hunters alike. With original copies for the album now fetching crazy sums, we felt these tracks needed another moment in the sun for all to enjoy.
For this release we selected two of our favourite cuts from this cult album, ‘Kilariô' and ‘Pernalonga'. Coincidentally these two gems were released on Odeon Records in 1975 as a rare promo campacto (a Brazilian 7", which plays at 33rpm). 'Kilariô' is a pure Brazilian-soul classic. All the right elements gel together, whilst Di Melo works his relaxed vocal magic over the top. ‘Pernalonga', with its catchy guitar and horns intro, loose break-beat drum, has the feel-good factor which some may recognize as one of the samples behind N.A.S.A featuring David Byrne, & Chali 2na's 'The People Tree' from 2009.
Di Melo is still recording to this day, releasing an album with Cotonete on Favorite Recordings in 2019 - a true don. More
1
Magalhães - Xangô
2
Os Panteras - Lambada Pauleira
Brazil 45, number 84.
For number 84 in the Brazil 45 Series, we headed to the North of Brazil with these dancefloor monsters by Magalhães and Os Panteras.
'Xangô' by Magalhães is taken from his 'E Sua Guitarra' album, from 1986, and originally released on Gravasom Records. A stunning, driving Lambada track with haunting vocals and a compelling gusto energy. It has been gaining popularity over recent years with DJs and is a sure-fire, get-out-of-jail dancefloor saver.
On the flip, we find another biggy from Os Panteras, 'Lambada Pauleira’. Also released on Gravasom Records, but a year later in 1987. It is best known for Joutro Mundo's fine re-edit of the track, but here we have it in its original form and with all its quirky brilliance. It is easy to see why, over the years, it has been a staple of some of Brazil's finest DJs’ sets, such as Augusto Olivani (aka Trepanado).
We are super happy to once again present these two red-hot tracks back-to-back. More
For number 84 in the Brazil 45 Series, we headed to the North of Brazil with these dancefloor monsters by Magalhães and Os Panteras.
'Xangô' by Magalhães is taken from his 'E Sua Guitarra' album, from 1986, and originally released on Gravasom Records. A stunning, driving Lambada track with haunting vocals and a compelling gusto energy. It has been gaining popularity over recent years with DJs and is a sure-fire, get-out-of-jail dancefloor saver.
On the flip, we find another biggy from Os Panteras, 'Lambada Pauleira’. Also released on Gravasom Records, but a year later in 1987. It is best known for Joutro Mundo's fine re-edit of the track, but here we have it in its original form and with all its quirky brilliance. It is easy to see why, over the years, it has been a staple of some of Brazil's finest DJs’ sets, such as Augusto Olivani (aka Trepanado).
We are super happy to once again present these two red-hot tracks back-to-back. More
1
Waldir Calmon - Airport Love Theme
2
Waldir Calmon - Afro Som
Brazil 45, number 85.
You know it's going to be a heavy record when DJ / collector Mr Thing asks you to keep a look out for a copy on your next digging trip to Brazil. Add on top of that, being sampled by Madlib on the track 'Curls’ on his Madvillain album!
Taken from Waldir Calmon's 'Waldir Calmon E Seus Multisons' album on Copacabana (1970), from looking at this unassuming record cover featuring a middle-aged man sporting an impressive pair of glasses you wouldn't expect it to become the fabric to one of the songs from the iconic 'Madvillain’ album. But… like many things in life, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. 'Airport Love Theme’, like its name suggests, falls into full-on lounge territory. It is feel-good music made to be the soundtrack for a utopian world that never really was. Yet behind the silky-smooth groove is an addictive earworm waiting to be heard.
'Afro Som' taken from the same album, pushes things in a different direction towards a sound that is more firmly rooted in the Brazilian tradition. This quirky 60's-breakbeat-funk groove is reminiscent of French artist Jean Jacques Perrey's 'E.V.A.', also from 1970, in its melody and backbeat, where the Moog synthesizer of Perrey is replaced with a more orchestrated sound by Calmon. This track is magical, cinematic and breakbeat-laden with a hidden unknown exoticism.
Waldir Calmon had an active career in music working from the '50s right up until his passing in 1982. His career started early, forming his first ensemble at the age of fourteen, originally working in bands in nightclubs and writing jingles. He progressed in the early '50s to a long-running career working in television. In addition to his television work, he had success with his recording vocation, mixing in the same musical circles as greats such as Tom Jobi, João Gilberto and Doris Monteiro. More
You know it's going to be a heavy record when DJ / collector Mr Thing asks you to keep a look out for a copy on your next digging trip to Brazil. Add on top of that, being sampled by Madlib on the track 'Curls’ on his Madvillain album!
Taken from Waldir Calmon's 'Waldir Calmon E Seus Multisons' album on Copacabana (1970), from looking at this unassuming record cover featuring a middle-aged man sporting an impressive pair of glasses you wouldn't expect it to become the fabric to one of the songs from the iconic 'Madvillain’ album. But… like many things in life, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. 'Airport Love Theme’, like its name suggests, falls into full-on lounge territory. It is feel-good music made to be the soundtrack for a utopian world that never really was. Yet behind the silky-smooth groove is an addictive earworm waiting to be heard.
'Afro Som' taken from the same album, pushes things in a different direction towards a sound that is more firmly rooted in the Brazilian tradition. This quirky 60's-breakbeat-funk groove is reminiscent of French artist Jean Jacques Perrey's 'E.V.A.', also from 1970, in its melody and backbeat, where the Moog synthesizer of Perrey is replaced with a more orchestrated sound by Calmon. This track is magical, cinematic and breakbeat-laden with a hidden unknown exoticism.
Waldir Calmon had an active career in music working from the '50s right up until his passing in 1982. His career started early, forming his first ensemble at the age of fourteen, originally working in bands in nightclubs and writing jingles. He progressed in the early '50s to a long-running career working in television. In addition to his television work, he had success with his recording vocation, mixing in the same musical circles as greats such as Tom Jobi, João Gilberto and Doris Monteiro. More
1
Harmony Cats - Harmony Cats’ Theme
2
Harmony Cats - Seja Como Nós (De Pé No Chão)
Brazil 45, number 93.
For number 93 in the Brazil45 series, we presented two favourites from the Harmony Cats. A female vocal quintet (who later became a trio) from São Paulo. They formed in 1976 and were most prolific in the disco period.
'Harmony Cats' Theme' from 1976 is probably the group’s best-known track outside of Brazil. Owing a lot to Rhythm Heritage's version of 'Barretta's Theme (Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow)’ its wonderfully spacey breakbeat and percussive production with lush, floaty vocals makes it a real crossover classic record.
'Seja Como Nos (De Pe No Chao)' is instantly recognisable. Tucked away on the B-side of their 1979 single 'Tem Dinheiro Nisso' on Young Records, it is a beast of a cover version of The Jacksons' classic ' Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)'. Nothing subtle or sophisticated here. Just a song of pure disco joy, enhanced with awesome Brazilian production and the Cats' trademark vocal arrangements. A get-of-jail-free card for any DJ that finds themselves stuck with an empty dancefloor, but also one that will put smiles on the faces of the more discerning leftfield club crowds. More
For number 93 in the Brazil45 series, we presented two favourites from the Harmony Cats. A female vocal quintet (who later became a trio) from São Paulo. They formed in 1976 and were most prolific in the disco period.
'Harmony Cats' Theme' from 1976 is probably the group’s best-known track outside of Brazil. Owing a lot to Rhythm Heritage's version of 'Barretta's Theme (Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow)’ its wonderfully spacey breakbeat and percussive production with lush, floaty vocals makes it a real crossover classic record.
'Seja Como Nos (De Pe No Chao)' is instantly recognisable. Tucked away on the B-side of their 1979 single 'Tem Dinheiro Nisso' on Young Records, it is a beast of a cover version of The Jacksons' classic ' Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)'. Nothing subtle or sophisticated here. Just a song of pure disco joy, enhanced with awesome Brazilian production and the Cats' trademark vocal arrangements. A get-of-jail-free card for any DJ that finds themselves stuck with an empty dancefloor, but also one that will put smiles on the faces of the more discerning leftfield club crowds. More
1
Ray And His Court - La Señorita Lola
2
Ray And His Court - Lo Sabia
3
Ray And His Court - Venimos Acabando
4
Ray And His Court - El Alacran
5
Ray And His Court - La Pena Pa'Goza
6
Ray And His Court - Cookie Crumbs
7
Ray And His Court - De Eso Nada Monada
8
Ray And His Court - Sunny
9
Ray And His Court - Soul Freedom
Latin funk at its finest. A kingpin player of Miami’s Cuban music scene, Ray Fernandez, brought together his ‘court’ for this sensational Afro-Cuban funk triumph. Largely a family affair, the album features his wife, two sons and a range of other talented musicians including Rickey Washington on saxophone, father of the contemporary jazz maestro Kamasi Washington. Originally released in 1973 on Manuel J. Mato’s iconic and collectible Sound Triangle Records, Ray & His Court is a dose of Miami heat fuelled by a Cuban fire, taking in salsa, soul, funk, calypso and Afro-Cuban rhythms.
A kaleidoscopic album that draws influence from a range of different genres and scenes blended together in true Ray Fernandez style. Side A, showcases an array of traditional Latin workouts including the addictive enticing opener 'La Señorita Lola' and the pulsating 'Lo Sabia' with its punchy horns and Ray’s wonderful, quirky bubbling organ groove. The tantalising ‘Venimos Acabando’ and bouncing organ stabs of ‘El Alacran’ are two further tickets to get a dancefloor vibing.
The B-side then steps things up, slipping a hit of heavy-weight Miami funk into the mix. Take the DJ favourite ‘Cookie Crumbs’ with its fiery bassline, tripped-out voiceovers and breakbeat drums. Or the amazing, memorable and truly unique funk instrumental ‘Soul Freedom’ with some mighty fine bass clarinet work courtesy of Gary Gottfried. Also featured is a seductive organ-led Cuban funk rework of Bobby Hebb's 'Sunny' (are there any bad versions of this song?), with a sumptuous female vocal that combine to serve up a seductive take us this much-loved classic.
'Ray And His Court' is a brilliant blend of Afro-Cuban gems and Miami funk heat from an influential group on Miami’s Latin music scene. A majestic and magnetic classic where every track is a surefire winner.
Housed in a tip-on sleeve. More
A kaleidoscopic album that draws influence from a range of different genres and scenes blended together in true Ray Fernandez style. Side A, showcases an array of traditional Latin workouts including the addictive enticing opener 'La Señorita Lola' and the pulsating 'Lo Sabia' with its punchy horns and Ray’s wonderful, quirky bubbling organ groove. The tantalising ‘Venimos Acabando’ and bouncing organ stabs of ‘El Alacran’ are two further tickets to get a dancefloor vibing.
The B-side then steps things up, slipping a hit of heavy-weight Miami funk into the mix. Take the DJ favourite ‘Cookie Crumbs’ with its fiery bassline, tripped-out voiceovers and breakbeat drums. Or the amazing, memorable and truly unique funk instrumental ‘Soul Freedom’ with some mighty fine bass clarinet work courtesy of Gary Gottfried. Also featured is a seductive organ-led Cuban funk rework of Bobby Hebb's 'Sunny' (are there any bad versions of this song?), with a sumptuous female vocal that combine to serve up a seductive take us this much-loved classic.
'Ray And His Court' is a brilliant blend of Afro-Cuban gems and Miami funk heat from an influential group on Miami’s Latin music scene. A majestic and magnetic classic where every track is a surefire winner.
Housed in a tip-on sleeve. More
1
Dora Morelenbaum - Não Vou Te Esquecer
2
Dora Morelenbaum - Venha Comigo
3
Dora Morelenbaum - Sim, Não.
4
Dora Morelenbaum - Essa Confusão
5
Dora Morelenbaum - A Melhor Saída
6
Dora Morelenbaum - Caco
7
Dora Morelenbaum - VW Blue
8
Dora Morelenbaum - Petricor
9
Dora Morelenbaum - Pique
10
Dora Morelenbaum - Talvez (As Canções)
11
Dora Morelenbaum - Nem Te Procurar
Preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dg9UH9j2fo
Pique is the sensational debut solo album from Dora Morelenbaum, one of the key talents spearheading Brazil’s new musical wave. A member of the Latin Grammy award-winning band, Bala Desejo, Dora showcases a new side to her solo productions on this special LP. Whereas Dora’s first solo EP, Vento de Beirada, was a leap of faith, Pique sees her soaring as one of Brazil’s standout stars, emboldened, emphatic but ever elegant. Building bridges between past and present, it’s a funkier, more groove-based affair, weaved together with those signature, slower, celestial tracks. Touching on disco, MPB, soul, R&B and jazz, the album is enriched with an indie pop aesthetic courtesy of fellow Brazilian star and co-producer, Ana Frango Elétrico.
With an ethereal, enveloping air few can match, Dora’s gift shines through both the serene and the spirited songs contained within. The blissful, sun-soaked ‘Não Vou Te Esquecer’ opens, before the funk-fuelled, feel-good ‘Venha Comigo’ and ‘Sim, Não.’ give a glimpse of the creativity bursting from the production partnership between Dora and Ana Frango Elétrico. Elsewhere, the album reclines into hazy lean-back realms via ‘A Melhor Saída’ and ‘Petricor’, virtuoso jazz funk in the form of ‘VW Blue’ and radiant MPB through the album’s title track ‘Pique’.
The drumming is tight, fresh and swung, the horns and strings deftly arranged, as funk-driven basslines and strutting guitars mesh with playful production touches that give an added vibrancy to the record. It is an album that exhibits every side of Dora and one she has been involved in from the ground up, from the songwriting, singing, arrangement and production to booking the studio time and sourcing the artwork designer, Maria Cau Levy.
An exchange of musical ideas powers every great scene and Rio’s contemporary landscape is no different - a family of interconnected musicians and friends that collaborate on each other’s productions. Pique is graced by a wealth of these leading Brazilian lights including her Bala Desejo bandmates Lucas Nunes, Julia Mestre and Zé Ibarra, as well as Guilherme Lirio, Alberto Continentino and Tom Veloso to name just a handful. This exchange crosses generations merging tradition with modernity. In a full circle moment, Dora’s parents Paula and Jaques Morelenbaum, who featured in countless recordings from Tom Jobim's Nova Banda and Ryuichi Sakamoto to Gal Costa and Gilberto Gil, join on the album through backing vocals and arrangement.
As Dora explains, “Pique was an album made in motion and ended up being about just that. From the beginning, it was an album that sought to build new textures that are part of the sound landscape I envision ahead. And from these colours and textures, it builds bridges between a more traditional universe, sonically and poetically speaking, and a new perspective on songs.”
Pique sees Dora embrace a freedom through fresh forms, showcasing the depth and diversity of her creative artistry. An infinitely listenable release that nods to Brazilian greats like Gal Costa, Banda Black Rio and Lincoln Olivetti, fused with the indie pop edge of Ana’s production. The result is truly unique and sure to be a future Brazilian classic. More
Pique is the sensational debut solo album from Dora Morelenbaum, one of the key talents spearheading Brazil’s new musical wave. A member of the Latin Grammy award-winning band, Bala Desejo, Dora showcases a new side to her solo productions on this special LP. Whereas Dora’s first solo EP, Vento de Beirada, was a leap of faith, Pique sees her soaring as one of Brazil’s standout stars, emboldened, emphatic but ever elegant. Building bridges between past and present, it’s a funkier, more groove-based affair, weaved together with those signature, slower, celestial tracks. Touching on disco, MPB, soul, R&B and jazz, the album is enriched with an indie pop aesthetic courtesy of fellow Brazilian star and co-producer, Ana Frango Elétrico.
With an ethereal, enveloping air few can match, Dora’s gift shines through both the serene and the spirited songs contained within. The blissful, sun-soaked ‘Não Vou Te Esquecer’ opens, before the funk-fuelled, feel-good ‘Venha Comigo’ and ‘Sim, Não.’ give a glimpse of the creativity bursting from the production partnership between Dora and Ana Frango Elétrico. Elsewhere, the album reclines into hazy lean-back realms via ‘A Melhor Saída’ and ‘Petricor’, virtuoso jazz funk in the form of ‘VW Blue’ and radiant MPB through the album’s title track ‘Pique’.
The drumming is tight, fresh and swung, the horns and strings deftly arranged, as funk-driven basslines and strutting guitars mesh with playful production touches that give an added vibrancy to the record. It is an album that exhibits every side of Dora and one she has been involved in from the ground up, from the songwriting, singing, arrangement and production to booking the studio time and sourcing the artwork designer, Maria Cau Levy.
An exchange of musical ideas powers every great scene and Rio’s contemporary landscape is no different - a family of interconnected musicians and friends that collaborate on each other’s productions. Pique is graced by a wealth of these leading Brazilian lights including her Bala Desejo bandmates Lucas Nunes, Julia Mestre and Zé Ibarra, as well as Guilherme Lirio, Alberto Continentino and Tom Veloso to name just a handful. This exchange crosses generations merging tradition with modernity. In a full circle moment, Dora’s parents Paula and Jaques Morelenbaum, who featured in countless recordings from Tom Jobim's Nova Banda and Ryuichi Sakamoto to Gal Costa and Gilberto Gil, join on the album through backing vocals and arrangement.
As Dora explains, “Pique was an album made in motion and ended up being about just that. From the beginning, it was an album that sought to build new textures that are part of the sound landscape I envision ahead. And from these colours and textures, it builds bridges between a more traditional universe, sonically and poetically speaking, and a new perspective on songs.”
Pique sees Dora embrace a freedom through fresh forms, showcasing the depth and diversity of her creative artistry. An infinitely listenable release that nods to Brazilian greats like Gal Costa, Banda Black Rio and Lincoln Olivetti, fused with the indie pop edge of Ana’s production. The result is truly unique and sure to be a future Brazilian classic. More
1
Leo Basel - Quelle Drôle De Vie (Nick the Record & Dan Tyler Re-Edit)
2
Love Isaacs - Surprise Surprise (João Gomes & Dan Tyler Are Predictably Delayed Rework)
3
Rick Asikpo and Afro Fusion - Let’s Get High (Nick the Record Re-Edit) [12 Minute Version]
One of London’s most loved underground parties, Tangent, celebrates its 10th birthday this year with a new compilation on Mr Bongo. Its residents, John Gómez and Nick the Record, have curated a selection of prized, rare and dancefloor-ready tracks that have soundtracked the past decade of their parties. Alongside remastered reissues of these original cuts, the CD version of the compilation also houses three incredible edits from Nick, John and Dan Tyler of the Idjut Boys. These were too good not to press onto vinyl, so we’ve given them the standalone 12" they deserve.
Contextualising their edits Nick states, “Tangent was not only the place for us to play the music we love the most, it also became the testing ground for our edits. It was really helpful being able to see the effect each of these had on a dancefloor before the records were released and many of them also became firm Tangent classics.”
Up first, Nick is joined by Dan Tyler (Idjut Boys), who he runs the edit label Record Mission with, for a furiously feel-good re-edit of Leo Basel’s ‘Quelle Drôle De Vie’. Basing their edit on the 1987 ‘Special Remix’, it does what any great re-work does, dropping the sections from the original that don’t quite hit the mark, whilst focussing on the gold in amongst it all. The result is a slice of peak-time, French boogie joy, that will warm even the coldest hearts.
John then joins Dan at the dials for a cosmic revamp of Love Isaacs 'Surprise Surprise'. A serving of ‘80s electro-funk, dripping in swagger with a highlife tinge. John and Dan extended the grooves for maximum dancefloor power, space echoing it into the stratosphere at all the juiciest points.
Lastly, Nick takes on Rick Asikpo and Afro Fusion 'Let's Get High' from the super sought-after 1980 album, Got To Be Me. Celestial, gospel-infused soul from Nigeria, Nick homes in on the energetic last 2 minutes of the original as the building block of his 12-minute edit. A completely reworked, feverishly paced creation, Nick switches the sections around, saving the slow, soulful segment for a brilliant cosmic breakdown before the track erupts back into its full flow. Synthesised, jazz-funk elation from start to finish!
Housed in a die-cut sleeve. More
Contextualising their edits Nick states, “Tangent was not only the place for us to play the music we love the most, it also became the testing ground for our edits. It was really helpful being able to see the effect each of these had on a dancefloor before the records were released and many of them also became firm Tangent classics.”
Up first, Nick is joined by Dan Tyler (Idjut Boys), who he runs the edit label Record Mission with, for a furiously feel-good re-edit of Leo Basel’s ‘Quelle Drôle De Vie’. Basing their edit on the 1987 ‘Special Remix’, it does what any great re-work does, dropping the sections from the original that don’t quite hit the mark, whilst focussing on the gold in amongst it all. The result is a slice of peak-time, French boogie joy, that will warm even the coldest hearts.
John then joins Dan at the dials for a cosmic revamp of Love Isaacs 'Surprise Surprise'. A serving of ‘80s electro-funk, dripping in swagger with a highlife tinge. John and Dan extended the grooves for maximum dancefloor power, space echoing it into the stratosphere at all the juiciest points.
Lastly, Nick takes on Rick Asikpo and Afro Fusion 'Let's Get High' from the super sought-after 1980 album, Got To Be Me. Celestial, gospel-infused soul from Nigeria, Nick homes in on the energetic last 2 minutes of the original as the building block of his 12-minute edit. A completely reworked, feverishly paced creation, Nick switches the sections around, saving the slow, soulful segment for a brilliant cosmic breakdown before the track erupts back into its full flow. Synthesised, jazz-funk elation from start to finish!
Housed in a die-cut sleeve. More
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Ryo Fukui - It Could Happen To You
2
Ryo Fukui - I Want To Talk About You
3
Ryo Fukui - Early Summer
4
Ryo Fukui - Willow Weep For Me
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Ryo Fukui - Autumn Leaves
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Ryo Fukui - Scenery
The Standard Edition - Territory - NO Sales to Japan
Ryo Fukui's 1976 highly sought-after jazz masterpiece SCENERY-
LP Edition: Mastered at half speed, 140g vinyl, Sticker
We Release Jazz (WRWTFWW Records' new sister-label) is proud to present its first release, the official reissue of Ryo Fukui's highly sought-after masterpiece Scenery (1976), sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180g vinyl mastered at half speed for audiophile sound and on digipack CD.
Unquestionably one of the most important Japanese jazz albums ever recorded, Scenery reveals Ryo Fukui as a miraculously brilliant self-taught pianist fusing modal, bop, and cool jazz influences for a very personal, dexterous and game-changing take on classic standards made famous by Bing Crosby and John Coltrane among others. From "It Could Happen To You" and its serene and calm intro which magically flows into a jubilant and upbeat piece, to the out-of-this-world piano solo of "Early Summer", or the incredible teamwork of "Autumn Leaves" where Fukui leads Satoshi Denpo (bass) and Yoshinori Fukui (drums) into groove heaven, every single note on the album oozes precision, confidence and flair and every single section slides seamlessly into one another, creating a supreme and elegant blend of jazz. Often compared to McCoy Tyner or Bill Evans, Ryo Fukui was a genius in his own right, a true master of his craft whose perfectionism gave birth to some of the greatest music ever recorded. Scenery is his magnum opus and an absolute must-have.
The Hokkaido wizard-pianist followed Scenery with the soulful gem Mellow Dream (also available on We Release Jazz) in 1977. He then focused on improving his live skills, often performing at Sapporo's Slowboat Jazz Club (which he co-founded with his wife Yasuko Fukui) and releasing 2 live albums. Ryo Fukui sadly passed away in March 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that is sure to captivate jazz lovers for generations to come.
Tracklisting Vinyl LP
A1 It Could Happen To You
A2 I Want To Talk About You
A3 Early Summer
B1 Willow Weep For Me
B2 Autumn Leaves
B3 Scenery
More
Ryo Fukui's 1976 highly sought-after jazz masterpiece SCENERY-
LP Edition: Mastered at half speed, 140g vinyl, Sticker
We Release Jazz (WRWTFWW Records' new sister-label) is proud to present its first release, the official reissue of Ryo Fukui's highly sought-after masterpiece Scenery (1976), sourced from the original masters and available on limited edition 180g vinyl mastered at half speed for audiophile sound and on digipack CD.
Unquestionably one of the most important Japanese jazz albums ever recorded, Scenery reveals Ryo Fukui as a miraculously brilliant self-taught pianist fusing modal, bop, and cool jazz influences for a very personal, dexterous and game-changing take on classic standards made famous by Bing Crosby and John Coltrane among others. From "It Could Happen To You" and its serene and calm intro which magically flows into a jubilant and upbeat piece, to the out-of-this-world piano solo of "Early Summer", or the incredible teamwork of "Autumn Leaves" where Fukui leads Satoshi Denpo (bass) and Yoshinori Fukui (drums) into groove heaven, every single note on the album oozes precision, confidence and flair and every single section slides seamlessly into one another, creating a supreme and elegant blend of jazz. Often compared to McCoy Tyner or Bill Evans, Ryo Fukui was a genius in his own right, a true master of his craft whose perfectionism gave birth to some of the greatest music ever recorded. Scenery is his magnum opus and an absolute must-have.
The Hokkaido wizard-pianist followed Scenery with the soulful gem Mellow Dream (also available on We Release Jazz) in 1977. He then focused on improving his live skills, often performing at Sapporo's Slowboat Jazz Club (which he co-founded with his wife Yasuko Fukui) and releasing 2 live albums. Ryo Fukui sadly passed away in March 2016, leaving behind a legacy of works that is sure to captivate jazz lovers for generations to come.
Tracklisting Vinyl LP
A1 It Could Happen To You
A2 I Want To Talk About You
A3 Early Summer
B1 Willow Weep For Me
B2 Autumn Leaves
B3 Scenery
More
1
Dudu Moraes - Eloiá
2
Yvette - Upa Neguinho
3
As Sublimes - Mangueira É Canção
4
Os Panteras - O Espaço
5
Chico Evangelista - Frutas & Línguas
6
Roman Andrén - Captain's Sword
7
Romeu Fernandes - Nagô Naê
8
Conjunto de Percussão Dora Pinto - Noite de Temporal
9
Gitte & Inger - Ud Af Buret (Can't Hide Love)
10
Truth & Devotion - Bless My Soul
11
Judson Moore - Everybody Push And Pull
12
Willy Chirino - Africa
13
Chain Reaction - Search For Tomorrow
14
Claude Jay - Find Your Light
15
The Shades of Love - Come Inside
16
The Duncans - Too Damn Hot
17
Thandi Zulu & The Young Five - Love Games
18
Tony Wilson - Hangin' Out In Space (Dub Mix)
19
JC Lodge - In Between The Sheets
20
SOYUZ Feat. Asha Puthli & Sven Wunder - Spring Has Sprung
It's a pleasure, a labour of love and a yearly highlight to present a new volume of the Mr Bongo Record Club series. In this collection, we have curated new finds alongside old, treasured tracks that hold a special place in our hearts, selecting music inspiring us from the Brazilian, Latin, soul, disco, gospel, cosmic, dancehall and downtempo genres. We have chosen a diverse array of artists, including Os Panteras from Brazil, stomping underground disco by Claude Jay, the Danish soul sounds of Gitte & Inger and the gospel excellence of Truth & Devotion, to name a few.
Most of the selections in this volume are older vintage productions, however, there is one very special contemporary production, recorded exclusively for Mr Bongo Record Club 7. For ‘Spring Has Sprung’, we linked three of our cherished musical family together; the legendary cult artist Asha Puthli, the wonderous band SOYUZ (???3) and Swedish maestro Sven Wunder. The result, as you’d expect, is completely breathtaking.
Reflecting on Volume 7, it now feels like a record comprised of two themes. Firstly, we have gone quite heavy on the Brazilian selections. This saw us searching further afield and digging into other areas of the endlessly rich Brazilian musical tapestry. The reflection of a more folk / Afro-Brazilian sound than presented in previous volumes in the series, can be heard in the songs of As Sublimes, Romeu Fernandes and Conjunto de Percussão Dora Pinto. The second theme is a representation of the tracks that we have been playing in our club DJ sets and are aimed more at the dancefloor. Disco tracks such as 'Come Inside' by The Shades of Love and The Duncans' 'Too Damn Hot' have been firmly tested favourites in recent years.
We hope these songs, by the sensational artists on display, inspire you as much as they do us. Music is the gift that keeps giving and there is so much more to learn, find, and share. More
Most of the selections in this volume are older vintage productions, however, there is one very special contemporary production, recorded exclusively for Mr Bongo Record Club 7. For ‘Spring Has Sprung’, we linked three of our cherished musical family together; the legendary cult artist Asha Puthli, the wonderous band SOYUZ (???3) and Swedish maestro Sven Wunder. The result, as you’d expect, is completely breathtaking.
Reflecting on Volume 7, it now feels like a record comprised of two themes. Firstly, we have gone quite heavy on the Brazilian selections. This saw us searching further afield and digging into other areas of the endlessly rich Brazilian musical tapestry. The reflection of a more folk / Afro-Brazilian sound than presented in previous volumes in the series, can be heard in the songs of As Sublimes, Romeu Fernandes and Conjunto de Percussão Dora Pinto. The second theme is a representation of the tracks that we have been playing in our club DJ sets and are aimed more at the dancefloor. Disco tracks such as 'Come Inside' by The Shades of Love and The Duncans' 'Too Damn Hot' have been firmly tested favourites in recent years.
We hope these songs, by the sensational artists on display, inspire you as much as they do us. Music is the gift that keeps giving and there is so much more to learn, find, and share. More
AAL record on Other People.
Pressed on to wax due to popular demand.
Tracklist:
A 1. THIS OLD HOUSE IS ALL I HAVE 3:39 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
2. I NEVER DREAM 6:46 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
3. SOME KIND OF GAME 6:47 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
B 4. HOPELESS 5:41 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
5. SUCH A BAD WAY 4:53 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
6. FLASH IN THE PAN 7:28 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
C 7. CITYFADE 5:41 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
8. NOW U GOT ME HOOKED 5:51 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
9. KNOW YOU 4:25 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
D 10. YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE ME AND SCREAM 5:35 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
11. RAVE ON U 9:56 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
More
Pressed on to wax due to popular demand.
Tracklist:
A 1. THIS OLD HOUSE IS ALL I HAVE 3:39 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
2. I NEVER DREAM 6:46 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
3. SOME KIND OF GAME 6:47 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
B 4. HOPELESS 5:41 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
5. SUCH A BAD WAY 4:53 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
6. FLASH IN THE PAN 7:28 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
C 7. CITYFADE 5:41 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
8. NOW U GOT ME HOOKED 5:51 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
9. KNOW YOU 4:25 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
D 10. YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE ME AND SCREAM 5:35 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
11. RAVE ON U 9:56 A.A.L (AGAINST ALL LOGIC)
More
Label:Big Crown Records
Cat-No:BCRLPC1129
Release-Date:06.09.2024
Genre:Dope Beat/Hip Hop
Configuration:LP
Label:Big Crown Records
Cat-No:BCRLPC1129
Release-Date:06.09.2024
Genre:Dope Beat/Hip Hop
Configuration:LP
1
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Grateful (Instrumental)
2
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Glorious Game (Instrumental)
3
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - I'm Still Somehow (Instrumental)
4
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Hollow Way (Instrumental)
5
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Protocol (Instrumental)
6
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - The Weather (Instrumental)
7
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - That Girl (Instrumental)
8
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - I Would Never (Instrumental)
9
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Alone (Instrumental)
10
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Miracle (Instrumental)
11
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Glorious Game (Reprise) (Instrumental)
12
El Michels Affair & Black Thought - Alter Ego Feat. Brainstory (Instrumental)
Blood Smoke Vinyl. The Instrumental version of the underground classic El Michels Affair & Black Thought collaborative album Glorious Game When Leon Michels and El Michels Affair released their rst record, Sounding Out The City, in 2005, it was hard to guess what was next for Michels and his then-introduced, now-patented "cinematic soul" sound. Now, four EMA studio albums and scores of tribute and remix projects later_all while producing for some of the biggest names in the industry_Michels has trademarked his sound, with each project taking audiences somewhere new and pushing the boundaries of what he is known for. The man is a river, not a lake and this time he takes his golden touch into the realm of hip-hop laying down a musical bed for one of the greatest to ever rhyme into a microphone: Black Thought of The Roots crew. Releasing on Big Crown Records, the LP is called Glorious Game and it is a remarkable debut partnership in more ways than one. Michels provides his bottom-heavy, soul-tinged production for Black Thought who gives us some of the more personal and transparent verses we've ever heard from him. Michels and Black Thought have been in each other's orbit for a while now. The two rst met in the 2000s when Thought was rst getting familiar with the contemporary soul scene. "Out of that whole world, Menahan Street Band was probably my favorite," recalling the funk and soul group Michels was a founding member of back in 2007. Fast forward a few years and musicians from that collective_Dave Guy on trumpet and Ian Hendrickson-Smith on sax _are now full time players with The Roots. This connection eventually led Leon and Thought to doing a few fundraising events around NYC and Philly together. "Before long, Black Thought was coming around the studio and would jam with us from time to time," Michels explains. "Then, fast forward to 2020 and COVID lockdowns, he just hit me up out of the blue, wanting me to send him stuff to write to. We both were looking to stay busy." Being that Black Thought is the co-founder and emcee for, hands down, the best live-band group in hip-hop. Michels took a decidedly different approach to this project and instead of sending recorded tracks of live compositions, he pulled out the sampler and sampled himself and some records from his collection. "I'm a big fan of soul music," as if Michels has to remind us. "And part of hip-hop's appeal to me has always been the sample-based production" For Glorious Game, Michels would make wholly composed and recorded soul songs in his studio, sample himself, then chop and/or loop up his sounds and create instrumentals for Black Thought. On some tracks he took a more traditional hip-hop approach, starting from samples of other people's music but then adding live instrumentation on top.
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1
Jorge López Ruiz - A1 : El Grito (06:12)
2
Jorge López Ruiz - A2 : M.A.B. Amor (07:45)
3
Jorge López Ruiz - B1 : Hasta El Cielo, Sin Nubes, Con Todas Las Estrellas (03:54)
4
Jorge López Ruiz - B2 : Tendré El Mundo (04:10)
5
Jorge López Ruiz - B3 : De Nuevo El Grito (07:45)
Format Notes: 2021 re-issue, 140g vinyl, remastered from the original analogue tapes
Territories: Worldwide no restrictions
Track List:
A1 : El Grito (06:12)
A2 : M.A.B. Amor (07:45)
B1 : Hasta El Cielo, Sin Nubes, Con Todas Las Estrellas (03:54)
B2 : Tendré El Mundo (04:10)
B3 : De Nuevo El Grito (07:45)
Release Notes:
Be With is delighted to present Jorge López Ruiz’s El Grito (Suite Para Orquesta De Jazz), eternal Argentinian magic released on CBS in 1967 that must be one of the most sought-after South American jazz LPs.
Living in Buenos Aires in the 60s, driven by creative impulse and rage Jorge López Ruiz used music as his platform to protest the Argentine military dictatorship: “I could never stand dictatorships, to be told how you have to think, what you have to do. Nor did I endure discrimination”.
A young López Ruiz had appeared on a television panel alongside writer, politician and philosopher Arturo Jauretche, criticising the Onganía dictatorship. Jauretche told López Ruiz “Now say it with music”. This was the deep inhale that lead to El Grito, literally “The Scream”. As López Ruiz later explained “Jauretche urged me that my protests should not remain in words and acquire the consistency of a work… but it was not so much what he told me but how he told me, what prompted me to make the work take shape, first in a live concert and then in a recording”.
As the police and military began resorting to kidnapping, torture and summary executions to quiet dissent, with depressing inevitability the artist community and their work were a particular target of the increasingly brutal regime. El Grito was banned not long after it was released and the majority of original copies were unceremoniously destroyed.
The work of a genius artist living under an opressive dictatorship, erased by the government of the time, this is buried treasure in every sense and it’s been a rare record for over 50 years. But it isn’t just being hard to find that has pushed up the prices of those few original copies that survived, this is a foundational record in the development of jazz in South America.
El Grito (Suite Para Orquesta De Jazz) is a showcase for Jorge López Ruiz’s skills as a composer and arranger as he leads a virtuoso orchestra of the likes of Mario Cosentino (alto sax), Baby López Furst (piano), Pichi Mazzei (drums), Gustavo Bergalli (trumpet), Oscar López Ruiz (guitar), Arturo Schneider (flute) and Jorge López Ruiz himself plays double bass on the fourth and fifth movements.
As the album’s sub-title explains, The album is a Jazz orchestra concept suite. Five movements, to be heard as a whole, that end where they begin.
“When I wrote it there was no history of a cyclical work in jazz. But I didn't notice that, I needed to express something and I did it. At that time they told me I was crazy, that such a thing was very difficult to do. But hey, I like challenges”.
Yet this is not challenging jazz. There are certainly avant garde, free jazz flourishes, but the hard bop characteristics make this a very accessible album: easy to listen to without being easy listening. López Ruiz’s love of film brings a definite cinematic feel.
The title movement opens the album in bombastic style. “El Grito” grabs you by the lapels and refuses to let go. Raw then controlled, it’s by turns stabbing then soothing, with rage weaved in and out of the elegant styles. “M.A.B. = Amor” is our favourite here. With a tense introduction and a patient build, a gentle sax sweeps in to lift everything up to meet the serene piano and soft drums. Elegantly paced, it moves back and forth between deep contemplation and a more urgent call and response between strings and horns. A near-eight-minute, slow motion marvel.
The second side eases in with the beautifully-titled “Hasta El Cielo, Sin Nubes, Con Todas Las Estrellas” (“Up To The Sky, No Clouds, With All The Stars”) a relatively brief mid-tempo piece featuring López Ruiz’s insistent bass notes high in the mix, and again blending the sublime with the emotive with its wild horns and tight rhythm section.
It’s followed by “Tendré El Mundo” (“I Will Have The World”) which also leads with hypnotic bass, but this time swifter, driven by crashing drums, rapid horn conversations and effortlessly cool piano flourishes. Rounding out the suite, “De Nuevo El Grito” (something like “The Next Scream” or “The Scream Renewed”) is a stylish closer. Whilst López Ruiz’s bass shifts the track along, the horns and piano are more restrained, yet no less stunning.
This Be With edition of El Grito sounds sensational, if we do say so ourselves. Working with audio from the original analogue tapes, the vinyl mastering chops of Simon Francis are on full show here in what he considers to be some of his best ever work for Be With. Pete Norman’s cutting skills have made sure nothing is lost. The tortured artwork has been restored here at Be With HQ as the finishing touch to helping this revered work find a rightful place in every protest art collection.
More
Territories: Worldwide no restrictions
Track List:
A1 : El Grito (06:12)
A2 : M.A.B. Amor (07:45)
B1 : Hasta El Cielo, Sin Nubes, Con Todas Las Estrellas (03:54)
B2 : Tendré El Mundo (04:10)
B3 : De Nuevo El Grito (07:45)
Release Notes:
Be With is delighted to present Jorge López Ruiz’s El Grito (Suite Para Orquesta De Jazz), eternal Argentinian magic released on CBS in 1967 that must be one of the most sought-after South American jazz LPs.
Living in Buenos Aires in the 60s, driven by creative impulse and rage Jorge López Ruiz used music as his platform to protest the Argentine military dictatorship: “I could never stand dictatorships, to be told how you have to think, what you have to do. Nor did I endure discrimination”.
A young López Ruiz had appeared on a television panel alongside writer, politician and philosopher Arturo Jauretche, criticising the Onganía dictatorship. Jauretche told López Ruiz “Now say it with music”. This was the deep inhale that lead to El Grito, literally “The Scream”. As López Ruiz later explained “Jauretche urged me that my protests should not remain in words and acquire the consistency of a work… but it was not so much what he told me but how he told me, what prompted me to make the work take shape, first in a live concert and then in a recording”.
As the police and military began resorting to kidnapping, torture and summary executions to quiet dissent, with depressing inevitability the artist community and their work were a particular target of the increasingly brutal regime. El Grito was banned not long after it was released and the majority of original copies were unceremoniously destroyed.
The work of a genius artist living under an opressive dictatorship, erased by the government of the time, this is buried treasure in every sense and it’s been a rare record for over 50 years. But it isn’t just being hard to find that has pushed up the prices of those few original copies that survived, this is a foundational record in the development of jazz in South America.
El Grito (Suite Para Orquesta De Jazz) is a showcase for Jorge López Ruiz’s skills as a composer and arranger as he leads a virtuoso orchestra of the likes of Mario Cosentino (alto sax), Baby López Furst (piano), Pichi Mazzei (drums), Gustavo Bergalli (trumpet), Oscar López Ruiz (guitar), Arturo Schneider (flute) and Jorge López Ruiz himself plays double bass on the fourth and fifth movements.
As the album’s sub-title explains, The album is a Jazz orchestra concept suite. Five movements, to be heard as a whole, that end where they begin.
“When I wrote it there was no history of a cyclical work in jazz. But I didn't notice that, I needed to express something and I did it. At that time they told me I was crazy, that such a thing was very difficult to do. But hey, I like challenges”.
Yet this is not challenging jazz. There are certainly avant garde, free jazz flourishes, but the hard bop characteristics make this a very accessible album: easy to listen to without being easy listening. López Ruiz’s love of film brings a definite cinematic feel.
The title movement opens the album in bombastic style. “El Grito” grabs you by the lapels and refuses to let go. Raw then controlled, it’s by turns stabbing then soothing, with rage weaved in and out of the elegant styles. “M.A.B. = Amor” is our favourite here. With a tense introduction and a patient build, a gentle sax sweeps in to lift everything up to meet the serene piano and soft drums. Elegantly paced, it moves back and forth between deep contemplation and a more urgent call and response between strings and horns. A near-eight-minute, slow motion marvel.
The second side eases in with the beautifully-titled “Hasta El Cielo, Sin Nubes, Con Todas Las Estrellas” (“Up To The Sky, No Clouds, With All The Stars”) a relatively brief mid-tempo piece featuring López Ruiz’s insistent bass notes high in the mix, and again blending the sublime with the emotive with its wild horns and tight rhythm section.
It’s followed by “Tendré El Mundo” (“I Will Have The World”) which also leads with hypnotic bass, but this time swifter, driven by crashing drums, rapid horn conversations and effortlessly cool piano flourishes. Rounding out the suite, “De Nuevo El Grito” (something like “The Next Scream” or “The Scream Renewed”) is a stylish closer. Whilst López Ruiz’s bass shifts the track along, the horns and piano are more restrained, yet no less stunning.
This Be With edition of El Grito sounds sensational, if we do say so ourselves. Working with audio from the original analogue tapes, the vinyl mastering chops of Simon Francis are on full show here in what he considers to be some of his best ever work for Be With. Pete Norman’s cutting skills have made sure nothing is lost. The tortured artwork has been restored here at Be With HQ as the finishing touch to helping this revered work find a rightful place in every protest art collection.
More
1
Donnie Sanders - Shing-a-Ling Baby (feat. Don Juans)
2
Donnie Sanders - Naptown USA (feat. Don Juans)
Two superrare & heavy funk cuts from Donnie Sanders. "Shing A Ling Baby" can be found on the incredible "Feeling Nice Vol.4" compilation album. "Naptown USA" is completely unknown and waits to be discovered.
More
1
DJ Shu fflemaster - EXP 05:26
2
DJ Shu fflemaster - Slip Inside You 05:32
3
DJ Shu fflemaster - Onto The Body 04:31
4
DJ Shu fflemaster - Fourthinter 06:31
5
DJ Shu fflemaster - Imageforum 05:54
6
DJ Shu fflemaster - Angel Gate 05:31
7
DJ Shu fflemaster - P.F.L.P. 06:40
8
DJ Shu fflemaster - Experience 06:48
9
DJ Shu fflemaster - Experience (Surgeon Remix) 06:02
10
DJ Shu fflemaster - Angel Exit 06:33
11
DJ Shu fflemaster - Flowers Of Cantarella 04:53
12
DJ Shu fflemaster - Innervisions 05:23
13
DJ Shu fflemaster - Innervisions (Pilot) 05:43
14
DJ Shu fflemaster - Opaqueness 06:39
15
DJ Shu fflemaster - Dawn Purple 03:01
16
DJ Shu fflemaster - Climb 05:25
17
DJ Shu fflemaster - Guiding Light 04:50
Territories: World excl. UK + North America
FORMAT 3x12” 180g vinyl, full printed sleeve, incl DL Card, gatefold sleeve
TRACKLIST:
01/A1 EXP 05:26
02/A2 Slip Inside You 05:32
03/A3 Onto The Body 04:31
04/B1 Fourthinter 06:31
05/B2 Imageforum 05:54
06/C1 Angel Gate 05:31
07/C2 P.F.L.P. 06:40
08/D1 Experience 06:48
09/D2 Experience (Surgeon Remix) 06:02
10/E1 Angel Exit 06:33
11/E2 Flowers Of Cantarella 04:53
12/E3 Innervisions 05:23
13/F1 Innervisions (Pilot) 05:43
14/F2 Opaqueness 06:39
15/F3 Dawn Purple 03:01
Digital Only:
16 Climb 05:25
17 Guiding Light 04:50
Release Info:
Dropping in January 2023 is the reissue of DJ Shufflemaster's album EXP, which Tresor Records first released in
2001. This expanded reissue comes as a 3xLP with new artwork by Japanese designer Sk8thing and combines the
original CD release tracks with three tracks from the Angel Gate 12" from the same year, including a remix by
Surgeon of Experience. Also present is a previously unreleased version of Innervisions, which replaces the assonant
synths of the original with a looped vocal sample upfront. Climb and Guiding Light will feature as digital-only tracks.
Tatsuya Kanamori remains a critical component of the Tokyo techno underground scene, initially coming to the fore
through the Subvoice label before releases with Tresor, Theory Recordings, and Japanese record labels such as Disq
and Reel Musiq. At the moment of the original release, DJ Shufflemaster considered the record to draw in disparate
and latent ideas into a fully encompassing mesh - ''I would like to show my thoughts and everything that I am
through the album. If it doesn't reflect my ideas and the reasons that I live for, there is no meaning for me to create
an album. Therefore, EXP doesn't contain just one theme or concept.''
EXP represents an uncompromising and psychedelic slant on techno, with a purist's focus on the dancefloor. It
bridges many avenues within the techno genre, from the minimalist, dubby terrains of tracks like P.F.L.P. and
Opaqueness, to more fierce percussive works that share a kinship with the sonic movements in Berlin, Detroit and
the UK. Beyond the technical, pared-down techno found in tracks such as EXP and Onto The Body, the album leaps
into unpredictable territories frequently. Angel Exit carries mystical UK steppers moods as if it were a long-lost
dubplate of The Rootsman. Kanamori delves deep into looping digital grunge in Flowers of Cantarella and Dawn
Purple, these synthetic worlds enveloping and deforming at will. Bold and as fresh as ever, EXP is an unearthed jewel
from Tresor's past for new ears. More
FORMAT 3x12” 180g vinyl, full printed sleeve, incl DL Card, gatefold sleeve
TRACKLIST:
01/A1 EXP 05:26
02/A2 Slip Inside You 05:32
03/A3 Onto The Body 04:31
04/B1 Fourthinter 06:31
05/B2 Imageforum 05:54
06/C1 Angel Gate 05:31
07/C2 P.F.L.P. 06:40
08/D1 Experience 06:48
09/D2 Experience (Surgeon Remix) 06:02
10/E1 Angel Exit 06:33
11/E2 Flowers Of Cantarella 04:53
12/E3 Innervisions 05:23
13/F1 Innervisions (Pilot) 05:43
14/F2 Opaqueness 06:39
15/F3 Dawn Purple 03:01
Digital Only:
16 Climb 05:25
17 Guiding Light 04:50
Release Info:
Dropping in January 2023 is the reissue of DJ Shufflemaster's album EXP, which Tresor Records first released in
2001. This expanded reissue comes as a 3xLP with new artwork by Japanese designer Sk8thing and combines the
original CD release tracks with three tracks from the Angel Gate 12" from the same year, including a remix by
Surgeon of Experience. Also present is a previously unreleased version of Innervisions, which replaces the assonant
synths of the original with a looped vocal sample upfront. Climb and Guiding Light will feature as digital-only tracks.
Tatsuya Kanamori remains a critical component of the Tokyo techno underground scene, initially coming to the fore
through the Subvoice label before releases with Tresor, Theory Recordings, and Japanese record labels such as Disq
and Reel Musiq. At the moment of the original release, DJ Shufflemaster considered the record to draw in disparate
and latent ideas into a fully encompassing mesh - ''I would like to show my thoughts and everything that I am
through the album. If it doesn't reflect my ideas and the reasons that I live for, there is no meaning for me to create
an album. Therefore, EXP doesn't contain just one theme or concept.''
EXP represents an uncompromising and psychedelic slant on techno, with a purist's focus on the dancefloor. It
bridges many avenues within the techno genre, from the minimalist, dubby terrains of tracks like P.F.L.P. and
Opaqueness, to more fierce percussive works that share a kinship with the sonic movements in Berlin, Detroit and
the UK. Beyond the technical, pared-down techno found in tracks such as EXP and Onto The Body, the album leaps
into unpredictable territories frequently. Angel Exit carries mystical UK steppers moods as if it were a long-lost
dubplate of The Rootsman. Kanamori delves deep into looping digital grunge in Flowers of Cantarella and Dawn
Purple, these synthetic worlds enveloping and deforming at will. Bold and as fresh as ever, EXP is an unearthed jewel
from Tresor's past for new ears. More
1
ptaki - Warsaw
2
ptaki - foxy
3
ptaki - kalina
4
ptaki - skala
Ptaki's tunes soar wide-winged like their translation (bird) infers. With a breakout single under their belts on the Very Polish Cut-Outs 'Krystina' and a swirling vapour of mystique surrounding them, the duo present their first full 12" of original material which is both contemplative and transfixing. The Kalina EP on Young Adults Recordings clocks in around 25 minutes, but the ground it covers cannot be clearly conveyed through conventional cartography - a birdseye view of jagged cliffs, coastal haze, rolling bagpipe hillsides, and smoke signals. Opener 'Warsaw' borders on the sublime with a patience and gentle simplicity that can't be taught or bought. Placidly ethereal, this is cinematic Balearia in the tradition of Quiet Village that won't soon be forgotten. Chimes, toms, horns and strums swell and crash like gentle titans. 'Foxy' builds slow on Celtic tropes and emerges from the bell tower with a jump in its step. Vocal swoons keep the pace atop effective strings and a bouncy bassline. 'Kalina' builds on an effortless guitar and displays the duo's songwriting chops with a stable balance of emotion and punch. The closer 'Skala' explores deeper territories with a thumping low end and acid workout, but still manages to drift into dreamlike states with its meandering flute refrains and guided meditation samples.
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Soul Supreme - Taking The Stand (Thes One Remix) (Feat. Thes One & Damu The Fudgemunk)
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Soul Supreme - Taking The Stand
Now that's what we call a remix treatment! Soul Supreme enlists a dream line-up for the official remix of "Taking The Stand." The intro line is all there is to say that this 45 is a no-brainer to cop:"Thes Oneis on the beat,Soul Supremecomposed the suite,the Fudgemunkis about to speak."
As a long-time fan of People Under The Stairs and Damu The Fudgemunk, this is a full-circle moment for Soul Supreme. He deejayed alongside Damu in the past, and he has shown his appreciation to both P.U.T.S. and Damu with various tribute mixes. Matter of fact, this release is a full-circle moment for any hip-hop head: this 45 marks the very first time Thes One and Damu can be heard on one record together.
In typical crate-digging fashion, Thes One flips key elements from Soul Supreme's "Taking The Stand" into a neck-snapping beat. The instrumental album version of "Taking The Stand" can be found on the B-side of this 45. The original is a beautifully melodic jazz-funk head-nodder featuring drums by Tamuz Dolev and a spirited guitar solo by Radiohop's Johnny Biner.
"Taking The Stand" originally appeared on Soul Supreme's highly acclaimed instrumental albumPoetic Justice. Released last year, the album channeled his ongoing legal battle with a Norwegian label that stole his music. Fresh off his latest collaborations withRaw Poetic, Damu The Fudgemunk hopped back on the mic for this remix to voice his displeasure about shifty record labels. Damu also laid down cuts for the outro of the track, serving as a tribute to the lateDouble K.
"While you hadMadlib,DOOM, andQuas doing all kinds of esoteric stuff in this beautiful wave of underground hip-hop in the late '90s and early 2000s, these were legends but not people you actually knew.People Under the Stairs were like your friends, kind of, even though you don't know them,"Soul Supreme toldWax Poetics in 2022."They are more like everyday people who make amazing music. (...) Thes OneandDouble K were really honest about who they are. That's something, for me, that I consider one of the most important things in music."The 45 release of "Taking The Stand (Thes One Remix)" shows just that: three like-minded music heads at their most honest and passionate. More
As a long-time fan of People Under The Stairs and Damu The Fudgemunk, this is a full-circle moment for Soul Supreme. He deejayed alongside Damu in the past, and he has shown his appreciation to both P.U.T.S. and Damu with various tribute mixes. Matter of fact, this release is a full-circle moment for any hip-hop head: this 45 marks the very first time Thes One and Damu can be heard on one record together.
In typical crate-digging fashion, Thes One flips key elements from Soul Supreme's "Taking The Stand" into a neck-snapping beat. The instrumental album version of "Taking The Stand" can be found on the B-side of this 45. The original is a beautifully melodic jazz-funk head-nodder featuring drums by Tamuz Dolev and a spirited guitar solo by Radiohop's Johnny Biner.
"Taking The Stand" originally appeared on Soul Supreme's highly acclaimed instrumental albumPoetic Justice. Released last year, the album channeled his ongoing legal battle with a Norwegian label that stole his music. Fresh off his latest collaborations withRaw Poetic, Damu The Fudgemunk hopped back on the mic for this remix to voice his displeasure about shifty record labels. Damu also laid down cuts for the outro of the track, serving as a tribute to the lateDouble K.
"While you hadMadlib,DOOM, andQuas doing all kinds of esoteric stuff in this beautiful wave of underground hip-hop in the late '90s and early 2000s, these were legends but not people you actually knew.People Under the Stairs were like your friends, kind of, even though you don't know them,"Soul Supreme toldWax Poetics in 2022."They are more like everyday people who make amazing music. (...) Thes OneandDouble K were really honest about who they are. That's something, for me, that I consider one of the most important things in music."The 45 release of "Taking The Stand (Thes One Remix)" shows just that: three like-minded music heads at their most honest and passionate. More
Label:Numero Group
Cat-No:NUMLP302
Release-Date:16.12.2022
Genre:Indie Rock/Alternative
Configuration:LP
Label:Numero Group
Cat-No:NUMLP302
Release-Date:16.12.2022
Genre:Indie Rock/Alternative
Configuration:LP
After a 19-year hiatus, Duster came back with their S/T chef-d'oeuvre in 2019. Recorded in band member Clay Parton's garage (aka Low Earth Orbit), the record bears all the hallmarks of the band's early work: gaunt basslines, spindly guitars, and melancholy lyrics that lurk in the background.
Tracklist
1.1COPERNICUS CRATER
1.2I'M LOST
1.3CHOCOLATE AND MINT
1.4SUMMER WAR
1.5LOMO
1.6DAMAGED
1.7LETTING GO
1.8GO BACK
1.9HOYA PARANOIA
1.10GHOULISH
1.11GHOST WORLD
1.12THE THIRTEEN More
Tracklist
1.1COPERNICUS CRATER
1.2I'M LOST
1.3CHOCOLATE AND MINT
1.4SUMMER WAR
1.5LOMO
1.6DAMAGED
1.7LETTING GO
1.8GO BACK
1.9HOYA PARANOIA
1.10GHOULISH
1.11GHOST WORLD
1.12THE THIRTEEN More
Side 1
01 I Saw You 02 Secret 03 Radio 04 Follow 05 Enough 06 Pause
Side 2
01 Safety 02 Cmon 03 Trying 04 Chest 05 Come On Home
Produced by Brian Eno and Fred Gibson
4th April 2020 - 23rd December 2022
Mastered by Kieran Hebden
Lacquer cut by Bernie Grundman
Artwork by loose
Gatefold photograph by Brian Eno
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01 I Saw You 02 Secret 03 Radio 04 Follow 05 Enough 06 Pause
Side 2
01 Safety 02 Cmon 03 Trying 04 Chest 05 Come On Home
Produced by Brian Eno and Fred Gibson
4th April 2020 - 23rd December 2022
Mastered by Kieran Hebden
Lacquer cut by Bernie Grundman
Artwork by loose
Gatefold photograph by Brian Eno
More
Finally: the long awaited Trentemøller debut album - maybe one of the most anticipated independent albums of the year - is ready to be released in October!The danish producer Anders Trentemøller is one of the hottest artists on the electronic circuit - the man of the moment!His 12“es broke many sales-records and he‘s been voted as the shooting star in 2005 by many reader polls.So the time is right to release his debut album The Last Resort“ - a beautifully crafted, astonishing masterpiece, that will leave you breathless. The 13 instrumental tracks together form a wordless musical story, almost like the soundtrack of a movie. It manages to capture a whole range of emotions in subtle melodic miniatures, dreamy ambiences, dusty beats, deep dub-tracks and driving groove-excursions. An ever-changing kaleidoscope of colours and moods, „The Last Resort“ without a doubt contains Trentemøller’s best work to date. Although it’s an electronic album, it also incorporates live-drums, guitars, bass and other acoustic instruments like celesta, glockenspiel, melodica and even DJ scratching to create a more organic feel. „Something I couldn’t manage with just electronica“, according to the producer.
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