1
Knowsum - A1. The Phase
2
Knowsum - A2. Saturday Night
3
Knowsum - A3 Honey & Blood
4
Knowsum - A4 Cosmic Breeze
5
Knowsum - A5 Magic
6
Knowsum - A6 C'est La Vie (ft. Melissa Weikart & Magic Manfred)
7
Knowsum - B1 Take it Easy
8
Knowsum - B2 Sugar Girl
9
Knowsum - B3 Your Touch is My Religion (ft. Noamle)
10
Knowsum - B4 Love Will Follow (ft. Zara2stra & Grégoire Pignède)
11
Knowsum - B5 Her Name is Melody
12
Knowsum - B6 Catching the Sun
LP
- Knowsum's first Album on new label Sugar Brain
– second LP that's not instrumental (after Lush Space Daze)
– no use of Sampling, all self-written and -produced
2. GENRE/S:
- Indie, Jazz-Funk, Bossa-Nova, Nu-Disco
3. TRACKLISTS:
A1 The Phase
A2 Saturday Night
A3 Honey & Blood
A4 Cosmic Breeze
A5 Magic
A6 C'est La Vie (ft. Melissa Weikart & Magic Manfred)
B1 Take it Easy
B2 Sugar Girl
B3 Your Touch is My Religion (ft. Noamle)
B4 Love Will Follow (ft. Zara2stra & Grégoire Pignède)
B5 Her Name is Melody
B6 Catching the Sun
4. SHORT INFO:
Cosmic Breeze takes listeners on a neverending love trip through the cosmos, channeling the warmth of 70s funk
grooves, the lush textures of modern Indie-Rock, and Knowsum's signature experimental flair. With it's infectious
rhythms, raw synths, and psychedelic melodies, the album creates a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and futuristic.
More
- Knowsum's first Album on new label Sugar Brain
– second LP that's not instrumental (after Lush Space Daze)
– no use of Sampling, all self-written and -produced
2. GENRE/S:
- Indie, Jazz-Funk, Bossa-Nova, Nu-Disco
3. TRACKLISTS:
A1 The Phase
A2 Saturday Night
A3 Honey & Blood
A4 Cosmic Breeze
A5 Magic
A6 C'est La Vie (ft. Melissa Weikart & Magic Manfred)
B1 Take it Easy
B2 Sugar Girl
B3 Your Touch is My Religion (ft. Noamle)
B4 Love Will Follow (ft. Zara2stra & Grégoire Pignède)
B5 Her Name is Melody
B6 Catching the Sun
4. SHORT INFO:
Cosmic Breeze takes listeners on a neverending love trip through the cosmos, channeling the warmth of 70s funk
grooves, the lush textures of modern Indie-Rock, and Knowsum's signature experimental flair. With it's infectious
rhythms, raw synths, and psychedelic melodies, the album creates a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and futuristic.
More
More records from Knowsum
Money $ex Records is the collaborative venture between Max Graef, Glenn Astro & Delfonic. The Berlin-based label’s exploits showcase a crooked blend of influence and originality, with releases from the likes of Christopher Rau, Knowsum, Gerry Franke, IMYRMIND, Alex Seidel, Hodini and Kickflip Mike, as well as its founders. The label’s focus is on artist releases. LPs as well as EPs, exploring everything from Electronic Funk to Psychedelic Jazz and Contemporary Dance Music thrown in for good measure.
More
More
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Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith008seven
Release-Date:20.09.2024
Genre:Soul/Funk
Configuration:7" Excl
Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith008seven
Release-Date:20.09.2024
Genre:Soul/Funk
Configuration:7" Excl
1
Edric Connor - A Manchester United Calypso
2
Edric Connor - B Manchester Football Double
Format Notes: First-time 7" vinyl single reissue, remastered by Simon Francis, full colour printed sleeve with specially commissioned artwork from Stanley Chow
Track List:
A Manchester United Calypso
B Manchester Football Double
Release Notes:
We can't hide the fact that we're a Manchester label with some very strong feelings for the Red side of the city. Regardless of your tribal affiliation - whether you have one or not - Edric Connor's "Manchester United Calypso" is an undisputedly joyous, soulful classic. Like the bunch of bouncing Busby Babes the song sought to raise up, it's remarkable, stylish and profoundly memorable; and its magical legacy has only grown in the 70 years since it first surfaced.
A testament to its enduring brilliance, "Manchester United Calypso" is heard to this day on the terraces of Old Trafford and beyond. However, it's impossible to find a copy of the original 78rpm shellac release or, indeed, the 45rpm vinyl. So, we're delighted to reissue this unforgettable anthem - with Lord Kitchener's equally dazzling "Manchester Football Double" on the B-Side - and make it available on 7" vinyl to United fans of any vintage; as well as fans of vintage calypso fire! Featuring typically striking, specially commissioned artwork from the legendary Stan Chow, this record is a collectors item for the ages.
"Manchester,
Manchester United
A bunch of bouncing "Busby Babes",
They deserve to be knighted
If ever they're playing in your town,
You must get to that football ground
Take a lesson come to see,
Football taught by Matt Busby
Manchester,
Manchester United"
Whether you have United in your heart or not, "Manchester United Calypso" is a record that, like the best football teams in Old Trafford's history, swaggers with an addictive beauty that's impossible to ignore.
It's impossible to discuss the significance of the calypso without remembering what ultimately ripped through the heart of this most beloved youthful side.
Eight of the Babes who were celebrated in the Calypso tragically lost their lives on 6th February 1958 in the Munich air disaster.
Like the players and the club itself, the United calypso radiates a special type of magic and speaks to the spirit of United:
the demand to be fearless, unrelenting, creative and obliged to entertain the viewing public.
The Calypso was written by Eric Watterson and Ken Jones and sung by Edric Connor, who moved to England from Trinidad in 1944.
Connor is considered a pioneer, popularising calypso music, becoming the first black actor to perform with the Royal Shakespeare Company, setting up the Afro-Asian Caribbean Agency to represent Black and minority artists with his wife, Pearl and establishing a theatre workshop.
“I would think coming to this country right after the war, as Edric did, and getting into BBC radio, and moving among the people, he did a great deal of good for our own community,” Pearl once revealed.
He saw himself as a self-appointed ambassador for his country, Trinidad. We were very nationalistic back then. We believed we had a country worthy of recognition”.
The B-Side is another doozy.
Swoon along to Lord Kitchener's fantastically woozy "Manchester Football Double" - a fitting ode to the city where you'll "find football's headquarters".
Then and, after the 2024 FA Cup Final, now.
Simon Francis remastered the original audio for both tracks and Cicely Balston's precise cut for Alchemy at AIR Studios ensures this 7" well and truly soars.
The immaculate Record Industry pressing will ensure this sought-after gem finds a home in many more collections, from Manchester to Malta, Mumbai to Malaysia. More
Track List:
A Manchester United Calypso
B Manchester Football Double
Release Notes:
We can't hide the fact that we're a Manchester label with some very strong feelings for the Red side of the city. Regardless of your tribal affiliation - whether you have one or not - Edric Connor's "Manchester United Calypso" is an undisputedly joyous, soulful classic. Like the bunch of bouncing Busby Babes the song sought to raise up, it's remarkable, stylish and profoundly memorable; and its magical legacy has only grown in the 70 years since it first surfaced.
A testament to its enduring brilliance, "Manchester United Calypso" is heard to this day on the terraces of Old Trafford and beyond. However, it's impossible to find a copy of the original 78rpm shellac release or, indeed, the 45rpm vinyl. So, we're delighted to reissue this unforgettable anthem - with Lord Kitchener's equally dazzling "Manchester Football Double" on the B-Side - and make it available on 7" vinyl to United fans of any vintage; as well as fans of vintage calypso fire! Featuring typically striking, specially commissioned artwork from the legendary Stan Chow, this record is a collectors item for the ages.
"Manchester,
Manchester United
A bunch of bouncing "Busby Babes",
They deserve to be knighted
If ever they're playing in your town,
You must get to that football ground
Take a lesson come to see,
Football taught by Matt Busby
Manchester,
Manchester United"
Whether you have United in your heart or not, "Manchester United Calypso" is a record that, like the best football teams in Old Trafford's history, swaggers with an addictive beauty that's impossible to ignore.
It's impossible to discuss the significance of the calypso without remembering what ultimately ripped through the heart of this most beloved youthful side.
Eight of the Babes who were celebrated in the Calypso tragically lost their lives on 6th February 1958 in the Munich air disaster.
Like the players and the club itself, the United calypso radiates a special type of magic and speaks to the spirit of United:
the demand to be fearless, unrelenting, creative and obliged to entertain the viewing public.
The Calypso was written by Eric Watterson and Ken Jones and sung by Edric Connor, who moved to England from Trinidad in 1944.
Connor is considered a pioneer, popularising calypso music, becoming the first black actor to perform with the Royal Shakespeare Company, setting up the Afro-Asian Caribbean Agency to represent Black and minority artists with his wife, Pearl and establishing a theatre workshop.
“I would think coming to this country right after the war, as Edric did, and getting into BBC radio, and moving among the people, he did a great deal of good for our own community,” Pearl once revealed.
He saw himself as a self-appointed ambassador for his country, Trinidad. We were very nationalistic back then. We believed we had a country worthy of recognition”.
The B-Side is another doozy.
Swoon along to Lord Kitchener's fantastically woozy "Manchester Football Double" - a fitting ode to the city where you'll "find football's headquarters".
Then and, after the 2024 FA Cup Final, now.
Simon Francis remastered the original audio for both tracks and Cicely Balston's precise cut for Alchemy at AIR Studios ensures this 7" well and truly soars.
The immaculate Record Industry pressing will ensure this sought-after gem finds a home in many more collections, from Manchester to Malta, Mumbai to Malaysia. More
Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith157lp
Release-Date:07.06.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:2LP Excl
Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith157lp
Release-Date:07.06.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:2LP Excl
1
Superstar Quamallah - Mr. Righteous (Intro) (0:35)
2
Superstar Quamallah - You Need Knowledge (3:45)
3
Superstar Quamallah - 88 Soul (3:12)
4
Superstar Quamallah - Black Shakespeare (3:02)
5
Superstar Quamallah - For My People...It's Spiritual (2:55)
6
Superstar Quamallah - Lonely At The Top (3:56)
7
Superstar Quamallah - Just Listen (4:05)
8
Superstar Quamallah - California Dreamin' (4:33)
9
Superstar Quamallah - Purity (3:59)
10
Superstar Quamallah - Kunta Kente (4:20)
11
Superstar Quamallah - 1993 Shit (3:49)
12
Superstar Quamallah - We Got Plots (3:38)
13
Superstar Quamallah - Do Win-Dis (4:11)
14
Superstar Quamallah - Hope She Remembers Me (3:15)
Format Notes: 2024 first time vinyl release, 140g double vinyl, remastered audio with restored artwork
Track List:
A1 Mr. Righteous (Intro) 0:35
A2 You Need Knowledge 3:45
A3 88 Soul 3:12
A4 Black Shakespeare 3:02
B1 For My People...It's Spiritual 2:55
B2 Lonely At The Top 3:56
B3 Just Listen 4:05
B4 California Dreamin' 4:33
C1 Purity 3:59
C2 Kunta Kente 4:20
C3 1993 Shit 3:49
D1 We Got Plots 3:38
D2 Do Win-Dis 4:11
D3 Hope She Remembers Me 3:15
Release Notes:
Holy grail hip-hop alert! Superstar Quamallah's Invisible Man was never released on wax so, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of this astounding record, we present the first ever vinyl edition. A stunning record which gained accolades upon its initial release, such as a prominent feature on Gilles Peterson's renowned Best Of 2009 show, it's one of the most essential jazz rap albums of all time. Cut across double vinyl, it’s exceedingly limited, with just 500 pressed for the world.
Deep jazz rap on that mellow-melodic tip, Invisible Man is an unforgettable album with nothing but dope beats and dope bars. There's a strong chance this album has passed you by but we truly believe it to be a lost hip-hop masterpiece. It supremely captures the essence of a golden age classic without being slavish to the past. No, this ain't some facile throwback rap. It's a fresh and deeply soulful, original album shot through straight from the heart. Perfect to chill to, Invisible Man is profoundly jazz-oriented and captures with simplicity and sincerity the essence of hip-hop circa 1983-1994. It sounds like vibing with your nearest, dearest and oldest friends on a long hot summer night as the tantalising thought that anything is possible fills the air. You know what, we can just call this "magic hour rap" and we think you'll know what we mean. It's just beautiful. Just Listen.
Brooklyn-born, California-based emcee, DJ, and producer Superstar Quamallah was active in the West Coast underground scene throughout the 90s and recorded extensively with such revered names as Defari and Tajai. His parents were some serious artistic heavyweights, too; his father was soul organist Big John Patton, a giant in the jazz world known for his releases on Blue Note whilst his mother was an active designer. However, he remains relatively unknown. Invisible Man, named ostensibly after the classic Ralph Ellison novel, could also refer to how he is viewed by the public at large. With close affiliations to the Hieroglyphics, Dilated Peoples and Likwit crew, his debut EP "Don't Call Me John" arrived in 1999 on ABB Records, after which he took a sabbatical from recording which included graduate school, travelling, teaching at Inglewood High and eventually a professorship of African Studies at Berkeley.
With a laidback flow and deep, relaxing presence on the mic, Superstar Quamallah is equal parts Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and Guru. Invisible Man is refined, soulful, feel-good hip-hop of the old school. Its wise, spiritual and literate sound, combined with the summertime vibes projected by the smooth beats and the nostalgia-inducing samples and vocal scratches, created jazzy boom-bap rap reminiscent of prime De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest and Gang Starr.
Irresistibly bouncing opener "You Need Knowledge" loops sparkling pianos, horns and a nagging whistle refrain with scratched vocal refrains from Slick Rick, Mobb Deep and Guru. The super-smooth head-nod classic "88 Soul" also utilises a beautifully swelling piano line and dusty breaks whilst Quamé reminisces about his childhood in NYC. Deeply moving, the silky, sultry "Black Shakespeare" is built around an elegant piano loop and goes hard on the superman lover tip whilst "For My People...It's Spiritual" is transcendental rap in conversation with Rakim and older gods. The "Moment Of Truth"-sampling "Lonely At The Top" is striking for its undiluted boom-bap stylings and the staccato flute-hop of "Just Listen" is riddled with soulful refinement. The deeply-affecting, wistful-yet-triumphant bells and horn-drenched single "California Dreamin'" is top-tier rap of unimpeachable quality. What a flow!
Another highlight is the rich melodic piano-rap of "Purity", a beautiful ode to the foundations of rap and those keeping the culture authentically alive. Beautifully played instruments and spiritual jazz samples elevate the deep thinking present on "Kunta Kente" whilst the darker jazz-tinged battle-rap of "93 Shit" goes super hard both in a lyrical sense and with its no-holds drum punches. The breezy Rhodes and string loops that serve as the sonic backdrop to the slinky jazz rap of "We Got Plots" are just gorgeous as our hero evokes Common's "I Used To Love H.E.R." with a head-spinning tale of crime, deception and double crossing. And some twist! "Do Win-Dis" has a tense crime-funk backing and rolling beats which complement Quamé's flow perfectly before the record is rounded out by the tough yet jazzy brilliance of rap confessional "Hope She Remembers Me". Just sensational.
Upon its original release, Quamallah himself declared: "My favorite time period for Hip Hop music was definitely between 1983 and 1994 with 1988 and 1993 being two years that standout as extremely impressive years musically and culturally. The fashion, slang, movies, TV shows and vibe during those years was incredible. While totally submerged in the feelings and music of that entire time period, I went to work on Invisible Man and I am excited for people to hear the result! It is an album that I would want to hear from some of my favorite artists of the past and present today. This is not a RETRO trip for me; this is me at my best lyrically and spiritually using the accessories of the 80s and 90s to fuel me. I am a 88 soul as the song states!"
This album goes deep. It goes all in. When Invisible Man first came out it had a real hold on us here at Be With HQ. We couldn't stop listening to it. We'd venture to say it's one of the top 25 rap records of the 2000s. In the years since its release, it has remained a criminally underrated record, an increasingly hidden gem. We sincerely hope this first time double LP release will go some way to correct this. It's been mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis, cut by Cicely Balston and pressed at Record Industry. Finally available on the format it should always have been on, it must never be rendered invisible again.
More
Track List:
A1 Mr. Righteous (Intro) 0:35
A2 You Need Knowledge 3:45
A3 88 Soul 3:12
A4 Black Shakespeare 3:02
B1 For My People...It's Spiritual 2:55
B2 Lonely At The Top 3:56
B3 Just Listen 4:05
B4 California Dreamin' 4:33
C1 Purity 3:59
C2 Kunta Kente 4:20
C3 1993 Shit 3:49
D1 We Got Plots 3:38
D2 Do Win-Dis 4:11
D3 Hope She Remembers Me 3:15
Release Notes:
Holy grail hip-hop alert! Superstar Quamallah's Invisible Man was never released on wax so, to celebrate the 15th anniversary of this astounding record, we present the first ever vinyl edition. A stunning record which gained accolades upon its initial release, such as a prominent feature on Gilles Peterson's renowned Best Of 2009 show, it's one of the most essential jazz rap albums of all time. Cut across double vinyl, it’s exceedingly limited, with just 500 pressed for the world.
Deep jazz rap on that mellow-melodic tip, Invisible Man is an unforgettable album with nothing but dope beats and dope bars. There's a strong chance this album has passed you by but we truly believe it to be a lost hip-hop masterpiece. It supremely captures the essence of a golden age classic without being slavish to the past. No, this ain't some facile throwback rap. It's a fresh and deeply soulful, original album shot through straight from the heart. Perfect to chill to, Invisible Man is profoundly jazz-oriented and captures with simplicity and sincerity the essence of hip-hop circa 1983-1994. It sounds like vibing with your nearest, dearest and oldest friends on a long hot summer night as the tantalising thought that anything is possible fills the air. You know what, we can just call this "magic hour rap" and we think you'll know what we mean. It's just beautiful. Just Listen.
Brooklyn-born, California-based emcee, DJ, and producer Superstar Quamallah was active in the West Coast underground scene throughout the 90s and recorded extensively with such revered names as Defari and Tajai. His parents were some serious artistic heavyweights, too; his father was soul organist Big John Patton, a giant in the jazz world known for his releases on Blue Note whilst his mother was an active designer. However, he remains relatively unknown. Invisible Man, named ostensibly after the classic Ralph Ellison novel, could also refer to how he is viewed by the public at large. With close affiliations to the Hieroglyphics, Dilated Peoples and Likwit crew, his debut EP "Don't Call Me John" arrived in 1999 on ABB Records, after which he took a sabbatical from recording which included graduate school, travelling, teaching at Inglewood High and eventually a professorship of African Studies at Berkeley.
With a laidback flow and deep, relaxing presence on the mic, Superstar Quamallah is equal parts Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and Guru. Invisible Man is refined, soulful, feel-good hip-hop of the old school. Its wise, spiritual and literate sound, combined with the summertime vibes projected by the smooth beats and the nostalgia-inducing samples and vocal scratches, created jazzy boom-bap rap reminiscent of prime De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest and Gang Starr.
Irresistibly bouncing opener "You Need Knowledge" loops sparkling pianos, horns and a nagging whistle refrain with scratched vocal refrains from Slick Rick, Mobb Deep and Guru. The super-smooth head-nod classic "88 Soul" also utilises a beautifully swelling piano line and dusty breaks whilst Quamé reminisces about his childhood in NYC. Deeply moving, the silky, sultry "Black Shakespeare" is built around an elegant piano loop and goes hard on the superman lover tip whilst "For My People...It's Spiritual" is transcendental rap in conversation with Rakim and older gods. The "Moment Of Truth"-sampling "Lonely At The Top" is striking for its undiluted boom-bap stylings and the staccato flute-hop of "Just Listen" is riddled with soulful refinement. The deeply-affecting, wistful-yet-triumphant bells and horn-drenched single "California Dreamin'" is top-tier rap of unimpeachable quality. What a flow!
Another highlight is the rich melodic piano-rap of "Purity", a beautiful ode to the foundations of rap and those keeping the culture authentically alive. Beautifully played instruments and spiritual jazz samples elevate the deep thinking present on "Kunta Kente" whilst the darker jazz-tinged battle-rap of "93 Shit" goes super hard both in a lyrical sense and with its no-holds drum punches. The breezy Rhodes and string loops that serve as the sonic backdrop to the slinky jazz rap of "We Got Plots" are just gorgeous as our hero evokes Common's "I Used To Love H.E.R." with a head-spinning tale of crime, deception and double crossing. And some twist! "Do Win-Dis" has a tense crime-funk backing and rolling beats which complement Quamé's flow perfectly before the record is rounded out by the tough yet jazzy brilliance of rap confessional "Hope She Remembers Me". Just sensational.
Upon its original release, Quamallah himself declared: "My favorite time period for Hip Hop music was definitely between 1983 and 1994 with 1988 and 1993 being two years that standout as extremely impressive years musically and culturally. The fashion, slang, movies, TV shows and vibe during those years was incredible. While totally submerged in the feelings and music of that entire time period, I went to work on Invisible Man and I am excited for people to hear the result! It is an album that I would want to hear from some of my favorite artists of the past and present today. This is not a RETRO trip for me; this is me at my best lyrically and spiritually using the accessories of the 80s and 90s to fuel me. I am a 88 soul as the song states!"
This album goes deep. It goes all in. When Invisible Man first came out it had a real hold on us here at Be With HQ. We couldn't stop listening to it. We'd venture to say it's one of the top 25 rap records of the 2000s. In the years since its release, it has remained a criminally underrated record, an increasingly hidden gem. We sincerely hope this first time double LP release will go some way to correct this. It's been mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis, cut by Cicely Balston and pressed at Record Industry. Finally available on the format it should always have been on, it must never be rendered invisible again.
More
Label:Because Music
Cat-No:BEC5614631
Release-Date:01.11.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:LP Excl
Label:Because Music
Cat-No:BEC5614631
Release-Date:01.11.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:LP Excl
Rights: World excl. FR and including the UK
Format: Crystal Clear Vinyl
Packaging: 1 x Crystal Clear Vinyl, printed clear PVC outer sleeve, printed spineless sleeve, printed inner sleeve , marketing frontsticker
KEY POINTS
• Collector Crystal Clear LP deluxe packaged – the very First reissue of the cult 11 track EP – Street Album from year 2000 by DJ Mehdi collecting his Espionnage adventures
• “DJ MEHDI : Made in France” : an Arte 6 episode exclusive serie about DJ Mehdi from September 12th ! DJ Mehdi was the one building bridges between french hip hop and electro, and becoming a key composer,producer and DJ. He was a game changer in himself, helping both french rap & electro scenes to rise in the late 90’s & early 200’s . 13 years after DJ Mehdi’s sudden death, his long-time friend and Director Thibaut de Longeville imagined & directed the serie, with archives materials & exclusive interviews and words from big names from Rap & Electro about their collaborations & relationships with DJ Mehdi.
SHORT BIOG
“Rather than a compilation, this record is a summary of what Espionnage has done in the past two years, from the rap 12”s, the instrumental 12”s to the remixes I was given the opportunity to do. The members of The Espionnage Sound System, Yvan from Double Pact included (even if he only appears here on the interlude betweeen “Camille Groult Starr (rmx)” and “Si Tu Savais (rmx)”), have been essential to the label’s development as a whole. The Chronowax Distribution staff has been equally vital to a structure primarily dedicated to independent vinyl production. By the way, I have to thank Ulysse Genet who, on top of lending his name to a track title, suggested the name “Espionnage” instead of “Le Cirque Disques” (which was my initial idea) and drew the first logo. Many thanks to my team : Olivier Rosset, Charlotte Dutoit, Thibaut de Longeville, Alexander Wise, the 360 Creative & Marketing teams, as well as X2N, Tom Kan, DJ Gilb’R, Roulé, Crydamoure, Benoît Blue Boy and his daughters Ludella and Amadine ; who have all contributed on one level or another to what this record is. Of course I can’t forget my family: the Essadis, Faveris, Gassamas, Majira (and their many relations) as well as my other family, the 113 Clan and the whole African Mafia and most particularly my group, Idéal J, for the respect and freedom with which they’ve let me express the somewhat unusual ideas I had about all of this”.
Peace, DJ Mehdi, NYC, March 29th 2000.
TRACKLISTING
A1 - "We Are The Espionnage Sound System" - Dj Mehdi & Feadz
A2 - "Ulysse" - Dj Mehdi & The Cambridge Circus
A3 - "On s'habitue" - Dj Mehdi & Rocé
A4 - "Pop Song I" - Dj Mehdi & Dany Dan
A5 - "Naja" - Dj Mehdi & Zdar
A6 - "T'inquiète" - Dj Mehdi & Karlito
B1 - "Camille Groult Starr (Boombass Remix)" - Dj Mehdi , 113 & Boombass
B2 - "Si tu savais (DJ Mehdi Remix)" - Dj Mehdi & Manu Key
B3 - "Pop Song II "- Dj Mehdi & Dany Dan
B4 - "Spanish Harlem " - Dj Mehdi & The Cambridge Circus
B5 - "Despee '98" - Dj Mehdi & Rohff
More
Format: Crystal Clear Vinyl
Packaging: 1 x Crystal Clear Vinyl, printed clear PVC outer sleeve, printed spineless sleeve, printed inner sleeve , marketing frontsticker
KEY POINTS
• Collector Crystal Clear LP deluxe packaged – the very First reissue of the cult 11 track EP – Street Album from year 2000 by DJ Mehdi collecting his Espionnage adventures
• “DJ MEHDI : Made in France” : an Arte 6 episode exclusive serie about DJ Mehdi from September 12th ! DJ Mehdi was the one building bridges between french hip hop and electro, and becoming a key composer,producer and DJ. He was a game changer in himself, helping both french rap & electro scenes to rise in the late 90’s & early 200’s . 13 years after DJ Mehdi’s sudden death, his long-time friend and Director Thibaut de Longeville imagined & directed the serie, with archives materials & exclusive interviews and words from big names from Rap & Electro about their collaborations & relationships with DJ Mehdi.
SHORT BIOG
“Rather than a compilation, this record is a summary of what Espionnage has done in the past two years, from the rap 12”s, the instrumental 12”s to the remixes I was given the opportunity to do. The members of The Espionnage Sound System, Yvan from Double Pact included (even if he only appears here on the interlude betweeen “Camille Groult Starr (rmx)” and “Si Tu Savais (rmx)”), have been essential to the label’s development as a whole. The Chronowax Distribution staff has been equally vital to a structure primarily dedicated to independent vinyl production. By the way, I have to thank Ulysse Genet who, on top of lending his name to a track title, suggested the name “Espionnage” instead of “Le Cirque Disques” (which was my initial idea) and drew the first logo. Many thanks to my team : Olivier Rosset, Charlotte Dutoit, Thibaut de Longeville, Alexander Wise, the 360 Creative & Marketing teams, as well as X2N, Tom Kan, DJ Gilb’R, Roulé, Crydamoure, Benoît Blue Boy and his daughters Ludella and Amadine ; who have all contributed on one level or another to what this record is. Of course I can’t forget my family: the Essadis, Faveris, Gassamas, Majira (and their many relations) as well as my other family, the 113 Clan and the whole African Mafia and most particularly my group, Idéal J, for the respect and freedom with which they’ve let me express the somewhat unusual ideas I had about all of this”.
Peace, DJ Mehdi, NYC, March 29th 2000.
TRACKLISTING
A1 - "We Are The Espionnage Sound System" - Dj Mehdi & Feadz
A2 - "Ulysse" - Dj Mehdi & The Cambridge Circus
A3 - "On s'habitue" - Dj Mehdi & Rocé
A4 - "Pop Song I" - Dj Mehdi & Dany Dan
A5 - "Naja" - Dj Mehdi & Zdar
A6 - "T'inquiète" - Dj Mehdi & Karlito
B1 - "Camille Groult Starr (Boombass Remix)" - Dj Mehdi , 113 & Boombass
B2 - "Si tu savais (DJ Mehdi Remix)" - Dj Mehdi & Manu Key
B3 - "Pop Song II "- Dj Mehdi & Dany Dan
B4 - "Spanish Harlem " - Dj Mehdi & The Cambridge Circus
B5 - "Despee '98" - Dj Mehdi & Rohff
More
1
Shatter Hands - Troense Metro
2
Shatter Hands - 271,8 MOV
3
Shatter Hands - The Bells Without Mardi Gras
4
Shatter Hands - Pause Fish
5
Shatter Hands - Percussion Fruit
6
Shatter Hands - Exhausted Rescue Squad
7
Shatter Hands - Numismatics
8
Shatter Hands - Percussion Fruit (Sweet Aftertaste)
9
Shatter Hands - Three Ways To Pronounce The Letter E
10
Shatter Hands - Troense Metro (Exit)
The ever-evolving beat maker and jazz aficionado Shatter Hands audibly took space to grow for his 5th album, amounting to his most versatile body of work yet. His all new approach of recording and sampling musicians around him results in a wild yet super coherent ride through ambient jazz, afro-influenced drum work and stinky basslines that will make you want to get sum. "A Show Of Hands Vol. 1" is packed with knowledge from years of digging and beat making, yet super open and fresh towards the future side of sound.
A1 Troense Metro (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen, Maria Dybbroe)
A2 271,8 MOV (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen)
A3 The Bells Without Mardi Gras (feat. Grégoire Pignède)
A4 Pause Fish (feat. Heine Abbø, Christoffer Holm Clausen, Rasmus Riis Sitarz)
A5 Percussion Fruit (feat. Oddbjørn, Christoffer Holm Clausen)
B1 Exhausted Rescue Squad (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen, Flavia Huarachi Jørgensen, Mette Dahl Kristensen)
B2 Numismatics (feat. Heine Abbø, Albert von Bülow, Christoffer Holm Clausen, Flavia Huarachi Jørgensen)
B3 Percussion Fruit (Sweet Aftertaste) (feat. Oddbjørn, Christoffer Holm Clausen)
B4 Three Ways To Pronounce The Letter E (feat. Heine Abbø, Albert von Bu¨low, Maria Dybbroe)
B5 Troense Metro (Exit) (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen)
More
A1 Troense Metro (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen, Maria Dybbroe)
A2 271,8 MOV (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen)
A3 The Bells Without Mardi Gras (feat. Grégoire Pignède)
A4 Pause Fish (feat. Heine Abbø, Christoffer Holm Clausen, Rasmus Riis Sitarz)
A5 Percussion Fruit (feat. Oddbjørn, Christoffer Holm Clausen)
B1 Exhausted Rescue Squad (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen, Flavia Huarachi Jørgensen, Mette Dahl Kristensen)
B2 Numismatics (feat. Heine Abbø, Albert von Bülow, Christoffer Holm Clausen, Flavia Huarachi Jørgensen)
B3 Percussion Fruit (Sweet Aftertaste) (feat. Oddbjørn, Christoffer Holm Clausen)
B4 Three Ways To Pronounce The Letter E (feat. Heine Abbø, Albert von Bu¨low, Maria Dybbroe)
B5 Troense Metro (Exit) (feat. Christoffer Holm Clausen)
More
1
Jéroboam - Brexit Funk
2
Jéroboam - Peckham Night
3
Jéroboam - Peckham Night (Dub Mix)
Parisian label Chuwanaga is proud to present their latest 12-inch series release from Jéroboam, "Brexit Funk / Peckham Night". The band, also known in the streets of Paris and Montreuil as Echoes Of, is celebrating Britfunk and the rich musical heritage of Greater London, reflecting their deep appreciation for the iconic Britfunk sound. After several successful collaborations celebrating the genre with the label at the infamous New Morning venue in Paris, Jéroboam has crafted two brilliant compositions for this EP.
"Brexit Funk" is an electrifying homage to the classic London Jazz-Funk scene of the late seventies and early eighties. It is a tremendous track, reminiscent of the early sounds of Incognito and Freeez, infused with the energy of Hot Cuisine and Hi-Tension. It features a standout brass section, amazing solo performances, and a strong rhythm section. Having played in London and now across the whole UK, the band decided to ironically name this track as a musical memory of this strange transition.
On the B-side, you’ll find "Peckham Night" and its dub version, an outstanding composition that perfectly emulates the late seventies soul-jazz vibe. Beautiful vocals by singer Agyei blend seamlessly into this perfect composition. All along, you really feel the band coming together, bringing out the best of their soul. It really is the work of passionate and experienced musicians who have built strong confidence playing together for years.
Jéroboam is a group of 10 Parisian funkateers recognized as one of the biggest funk outfits on the current French scene. They already boast extensive live experience and a solid reputation between Paris and London. In addition to their original and popular tributes to American funk cities of the 70s-80s, they have also gained attention as a formidable backing band for Howard Johnson, Junior Giscombe, and Kyoto Jazz Massive. Having also released two highly acclaimed EPs on the Space Grapes label, they continue to work on their own original compositions under the name Jéroboam, with their debut album scheduled for release in 2025.
A1 - Brexit Funk
B1 - Peckham Night
B2 - Peckham Night (Dub Mix) More
"Brexit Funk" is an electrifying homage to the classic London Jazz-Funk scene of the late seventies and early eighties. It is a tremendous track, reminiscent of the early sounds of Incognito and Freeez, infused with the energy of Hot Cuisine and Hi-Tension. It features a standout brass section, amazing solo performances, and a strong rhythm section. Having played in London and now across the whole UK, the band decided to ironically name this track as a musical memory of this strange transition.
On the B-side, you’ll find "Peckham Night" and its dub version, an outstanding composition that perfectly emulates the late seventies soul-jazz vibe. Beautiful vocals by singer Agyei blend seamlessly into this perfect composition. All along, you really feel the band coming together, bringing out the best of their soul. It really is the work of passionate and experienced musicians who have built strong confidence playing together for years.
Jéroboam is a group of 10 Parisian funkateers recognized as one of the biggest funk outfits on the current French scene. They already boast extensive live experience and a solid reputation between Paris and London. In addition to their original and popular tributes to American funk cities of the 70s-80s, they have also gained attention as a formidable backing band for Howard Johnson, Junior Giscombe, and Kyoto Jazz Massive. Having also released two highly acclaimed EPs on the Space Grapes label, they continue to work on their own original compositions under the name Jéroboam, with their debut album scheduled for release in 2025.
A1 - Brexit Funk
B1 - Peckham Night
B2 - Peckham Night (Dub Mix) More
2xLP, Gatefold Jacket,Black Vinyl
About:
Following his most commercially and critically successful year to date, Conway the Machine returns with his first full length offering of 2024, “Slant Face Killah.” Long teased as the second half of the chart-topping 2023 album, “WON’T HE DO IT,” fans see Conway the Machine embracing his killer instincts on the mic, and doing so with versatility - rapping over the familiar gritty, dark beats fans remember discovering him on during his come up (Milano Nights, Pt. 1) to more unconventional beats, showcasing his ability to adapt and grow (Raw!). With an impressive feature list including Method Man, Raekwon, Joey Bada$$, Larry June, Key Glock, Jay Worthy & more, and production from heavyweight producers such as The Alchemist, Daringer, Conductor Williams, Cardo, Swizz Beatz & more, The Machine illustrates both his reach in today’s rap game, as well as his ability as a tastemaker. Known for consistently delivering quality music for his die-hard fans, The Machine is back to put his stamp on 2024. 2xLP Vinyl, includes Gatefold Jacket.
Key Marketing/Selling:
• Conway the Machine is a member of the well known Hip-Hop collective, Griselda, which includes artists such as Westside Gunn & Benny the Butcher
• Griselda/Drumwork titles are heavy physical movers and rarely offered at retail
• Documentary detailing the album creation process released on YouTube
• Features include Stove God Cooks, Larry June, Method Man, SK Da King, Flee Lord, Joey Bada$$, Key Glock, Rya Maxwell, Tech N9ne, Jay Worthy, T.F., 2 Eleven, Ab-Soul & Raekwon, with production handled by The Alchemist, Swizz Beatz, Cool & Dre, Camouflage Monk, Beat Butcha, Conductor Williams, Cardo, Don Cannon, Cubeatz, Daringer, Napes & More
• Music videos released for several tracks, with more videos to come post release
• Album trailer released, including footage of him linking up with pop star Dua Lipa
• Press/radio coverage from outlets such as RapRadar, HotNewHipHop, XXL, Essence, HipHopDX, Revolt, BrooklynVegan & more
• Interview released with Clash Magazine
• Recently concluded impressive European run
Tracklist:
A1/1. Despertar
A2/2. Mutty (feat. Stove God Cooks)
A3/3. Give & Give (feat. Cool & Dre)
A4/4. Milano Nights, Pt. 1
B1/5. Kin Xpress (feat. Larry June)
B2/6. Meth Back! (feat. Method Man, SK Da King & Flee Lord)
B3/7. Ninja Man (feat. Swizz Beatz)
C1/8. Vertino (feat. Joey Bada$$)
C2/9. Ten / Rya Interlude (feat. Key Glock & Rya Maxwell)
C3/10. Dasani
C4/11. Raw! (feat. Tech N9ne)
D1/12. Surf & Turf (feat. Jay Worthy, T.F, 2 Eleven & Ab-Soul)
D2/13. Karimi
D3/14. The Red Moon In Osaka (feat. Raekwon)
Socials:
Twitter: 142.3k followers
IG: 664k followers
FB: 121k followers
YT: 216k subs / 123M+ views
More
About:
Following his most commercially and critically successful year to date, Conway the Machine returns with his first full length offering of 2024, “Slant Face Killah.” Long teased as the second half of the chart-topping 2023 album, “WON’T HE DO IT,” fans see Conway the Machine embracing his killer instincts on the mic, and doing so with versatility - rapping over the familiar gritty, dark beats fans remember discovering him on during his come up (Milano Nights, Pt. 1) to more unconventional beats, showcasing his ability to adapt and grow (Raw!). With an impressive feature list including Method Man, Raekwon, Joey Bada$$, Larry June, Key Glock, Jay Worthy & more, and production from heavyweight producers such as The Alchemist, Daringer, Conductor Williams, Cardo, Swizz Beatz & more, The Machine illustrates both his reach in today’s rap game, as well as his ability as a tastemaker. Known for consistently delivering quality music for his die-hard fans, The Machine is back to put his stamp on 2024. 2xLP Vinyl, includes Gatefold Jacket.
Key Marketing/Selling:
• Conway the Machine is a member of the well known Hip-Hop collective, Griselda, which includes artists such as Westside Gunn & Benny the Butcher
• Griselda/Drumwork titles are heavy physical movers and rarely offered at retail
• Documentary detailing the album creation process released on YouTube
• Features include Stove God Cooks, Larry June, Method Man, SK Da King, Flee Lord, Joey Bada$$, Key Glock, Rya Maxwell, Tech N9ne, Jay Worthy, T.F., 2 Eleven, Ab-Soul & Raekwon, with production handled by The Alchemist, Swizz Beatz, Cool & Dre, Camouflage Monk, Beat Butcha, Conductor Williams, Cardo, Don Cannon, Cubeatz, Daringer, Napes & More
• Music videos released for several tracks, with more videos to come post release
• Album trailer released, including footage of him linking up with pop star Dua Lipa
• Press/radio coverage from outlets such as RapRadar, HotNewHipHop, XXL, Essence, HipHopDX, Revolt, BrooklynVegan & more
• Interview released with Clash Magazine
• Recently concluded impressive European run
Tracklist:
A1/1. Despertar
A2/2. Mutty (feat. Stove God Cooks)
A3/3. Give & Give (feat. Cool & Dre)
A4/4. Milano Nights, Pt. 1
B1/5. Kin Xpress (feat. Larry June)
B2/6. Meth Back! (feat. Method Man, SK Da King & Flee Lord)
B3/7. Ninja Man (feat. Swizz Beatz)
C1/8. Vertino (feat. Joey Bada$$)
C2/9. Ten / Rya Interlude (feat. Key Glock & Rya Maxwell)
C3/10. Dasani
C4/11. Raw! (feat. Tech N9ne)
D1/12. Surf & Turf (feat. Jay Worthy, T.F, 2 Eleven & Ab-Soul)
D2/13. Karimi
D3/14. The Red Moon In Osaka (feat. Raekwon)
Socials:
Twitter: 142.3k followers
IG: 664k followers
FB: 121k followers
YT: 216k subs / 123M+ views
More
1
Rick Wade - Hustlers Lament (05:58)
2
Rick Wade - Shinjuku Strut (05:14)
3
Rick Wade - After Dark (05:55)
Genre: Deep House / Detroit House
strictly limited to 300 copies
Tracklist 12":
A1. Rick Wade - Hustlers Lament 05:58
B1. Rick Wade - Shinjuku Strut 05:14
B2. Rick Wade – After Dark 05:55
Official re-issue of Rick Wade's Hustler's Lullaby, which was originally released in 2013 on Japanese Label: "Unknown Season". The record goes for 130 - 200 Bucks on Discogs, so we decided to make this available again. Strictly limited to 300 copies and no repress. Best to secure your copy for a regular price now, as they will go real quick due to heavy demand.
More
strictly limited to 300 copies
Tracklist 12":
A1. Rick Wade - Hustlers Lament 05:58
B1. Rick Wade - Shinjuku Strut 05:14
B2. Rick Wade – After Dark 05:55
Official re-issue of Rick Wade's Hustler's Lullaby, which was originally released in 2013 on Japanese Label: "Unknown Season". The record goes for 130 - 200 Bucks on Discogs, so we decided to make this available again. Strictly limited to 300 copies and no repress. Best to secure your copy for a regular price now, as they will go real quick due to heavy demand.
More
Label:Mutual Intentions
Cat-No:MI-034
Release-Date:10.03.2023
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:LP Excl
Label:Mutual Intentions
Cat-No:MI-034
Release-Date:10.03.2023
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:LP Excl
Special remarks: LP with pantone + CMYK printed outer and inner sleeve, shrink wrap and silver hype
sticker!
Genre: Hip-Hop. Rap. RnB, Neo-Soul, Jazz-funk,
A1 R U (Gonna Eat That)
A2 Bread
A3 Inthecut ft. Children ofZeus
A4 What A Day!!!
A5 Don’t Fuck Up (Interlude)
A6 Sweet
B1 Pre
B2 Orbit ft. Zee, MoRuf & Jay Prince
B3 All Season
B4 Gear
B5 Post
B6 Unpack
Press text:
If there is a space in this place for a voice of this age, it’s still sealed in wax. Above the din of the noise a vocal appears, in calm
reflection, it delivers a message of hope in a time of despair. Ivan Ave is back. A lot has transpired since we last heard him on a
full-length project, there's a lot to ponder as we get into his latest LP, All Season Gear.
On his 4th solo album, Ivan offers a glimpse into the various seasons he and his friends went through in the last three years. All
Season Gear was recorded on highs and lows through a pandemic, through healing, falling in love and observing the chaos that
is the hyper-textual information age. Lyrically an all-weather-proof record, breaking even with with a joie de vivre, backed by
production from the likes of Sasac, Mndsgn, Like, DJ Harrison and Ivan Ave himself.
The Norwegian rapper’s sixth solo release percolates between desperation and buoyancy, through a tide of beats, as Ivan taps
into his signature observations. His lyrics are an astute surveillance that exploit the mundane in a pensive exploration, touching
on hedonistic heights, with a constant focus on the beauty of the everyday.
The Mutual Intentions mouthpiece breezes through a record of wistful sonorities brought together by the larger Mutual intentions
collaboration. Keys swell and bass undulates, as the production convene on vintage aesthetics, repurposed for air-pod traveling.
It extends the sonic palette of his last LP, Double Goodbyes, and plunges the sound deeper than ever before.
Ivan Ave reinforces our vision of him as a voice for our time. A philosopher’s touch-stone in a world where the incongruous prevails over the sincere. More
sticker!
Genre: Hip-Hop. Rap. RnB, Neo-Soul, Jazz-funk,
A1 R U (Gonna Eat That)
A2 Bread
A3 Inthecut ft. Children ofZeus
A4 What A Day!!!
A5 Don’t Fuck Up (Interlude)
A6 Sweet
B1 Pre
B2 Orbit ft. Zee, MoRuf & Jay Prince
B3 All Season
B4 Gear
B5 Post
B6 Unpack
Press text:
If there is a space in this place for a voice of this age, it’s still sealed in wax. Above the din of the noise a vocal appears, in calm
reflection, it delivers a message of hope in a time of despair. Ivan Ave is back. A lot has transpired since we last heard him on a
full-length project, there's a lot to ponder as we get into his latest LP, All Season Gear.
On his 4th solo album, Ivan offers a glimpse into the various seasons he and his friends went through in the last three years. All
Season Gear was recorded on highs and lows through a pandemic, through healing, falling in love and observing the chaos that
is the hyper-textual information age. Lyrically an all-weather-proof record, breaking even with with a joie de vivre, backed by
production from the likes of Sasac, Mndsgn, Like, DJ Harrison and Ivan Ave himself.
The Norwegian rapper’s sixth solo release percolates between desperation and buoyancy, through a tide of beats, as Ivan taps
into his signature observations. His lyrics are an astute surveillance that exploit the mundane in a pensive exploration, touching
on hedonistic heights, with a constant focus on the beauty of the everyday.
The Mutual Intentions mouthpiece breezes through a record of wistful sonorities brought together by the larger Mutual intentions
collaboration. Keys swell and bass undulates, as the production convene on vintage aesthetics, repurposed for air-pod traveling.
It extends the sonic palette of his last LP, Double Goodbyes, and plunges the sound deeper than ever before.
Ivan Ave reinforces our vision of him as a voice for our time. A philosopher’s touch-stone in a world where the incongruous prevails over the sincere. More
1
Shigeto - Dial In (Intro)
2
Shigeto - Ready. Set. Flex. (feat. Zelooperz and Ian Maciak)
3
Shigeto - Runnup On'm (feat. Cleveland Thrasher and Ahya Simone)
4
Shigeto - Nothing Simple (feat. Tammy Lakkis and Cleveland Thrasher)
5
Shigeto - The Punch! (feat. KESSWA)
6
Shigeto - Let’s Talk (feat. KESSWA and Ahya Simone)
7
Shigeto - Can’t Keep Up (feat. KESSWA)
8
Shigeto - BookaMagick (feat. Cleveland Thrasher)
9
Shigeto - Pressure (feat. KESSWA and The Josh Craig)
10
Shigeto - Honey High and Blue (feat. KESSWA)
Cherry Blossom Baby, Shigeto's first full-length statement since 2017, sprouts out from a collective thaw, ambitious, collaborative, and fully realized. The Detroit-based, Japanese-American musician, DJ, Portage Garage Sounds label co-founder, and longtime Ghostly International artist embraces the role of producer and composer. Bold and cultivated with intention, the band-built sound honors traditions in electronic, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop, a fusion that's become his signature, now more vibrant than ever. Zach Saginaw and a group of guests and players present a snapshot in time, a celebration of self-love and an expression of vitality distinctly rooted in Detroit and informed by his family’s cultural history. "I am a cherry blossom baby," he says. "We all are cherry blossom babies, we all are resilient, we all are growing, we all will continue to."
Heritage has been at the heart of Saginaw's recording project from the start; his middle name is Shigeto, a name passed down from his great grandfather, which means "to grow" — it was apt given his premature birth weight of less than a pound, and remains fitting for the evolution of his artistry, now nearly 15 years since he signed to Ghostly. On Lineage (GI-148, 2012), Saginaw grappled with an ancestral story; the artwork contrasted photos taken of his great-grandfather's home in Hiroshima in 1916 and later at the Amache Internment Camp in Grenada, Colorado, where he and his family were sent during the Second World War. The line continues through Cherry Blossom Baby, which finds Saginaw drawing inspiration from the cherry trees that bloom every spring at Hiroshima, an enduring image of hope, resilience, and renewal.
Saginaw's been searching, a simmering introspection that surfaced in recent years as nightlife paused and he began to question the idea of Shigeto, the performer and Michigan fixture. "My identity is always something I've struggled with, not being really considered Japanese, not being considered white. I think Shigeto was a way for me to have this identity, to create one for myself that I can latch onto, and it suddenly didn't exist anymore." The realization pushed him to work on himself, to come back to his craft and his community, laying the groundwork for a record that rises from the figurative ashes anew.
A reaffirmed sense of self, momentum, and maturation is apparent in where Saginaw situates here as a songwriter and producer arranging ideas alongside Detroit's finest, a physical manifestation of his WDET 101.9FM show highlighting “forward-thinking music from the Detroit Diaspora.” Every track is a collaboration, be it with a vocalist or multiple instrumentalists, a tradition forged in his Portage Garage studio sessions. "It's the first time I'm writing this stuff myself and getting these players to make it even better…it's impossible to have made it at this level without them." The production and mix favor a full, throwback quality, eschewing modern compression for more spacious dynamics, a nod to psych and jazz records of the '70s and '80s. "It was on purpose but also subconsciously, playing live with jazz bands and DJing b2b with mentors like Dez Andrés, playing older sounds over the last decade. Sonically I wanted to make this record feel like you could see multiple people in a studio."
The group puts egos aside to pursue the best possible outcomes, like Saginaw's choice to invite drummer Ian Maciak (Machinedrum) for the early standout "Ready. Set. Flex,” which takes off with drum & bass velocity. "Ian's sound is unmatched, I can't play jungle breaks like Ian and I thought, how cool would it be if I could get another drummer to play that track?" Above the breaks and a rolling piano loop, there's Zelooperz, the ascendant rapper and Bruiser Brigade member (as well as Shigeto's partner in 2017 project ZGTO), rattling off a series of cerebral lines, with upright bass from Josef Deas (a Portage Garage alum) and Saginaw's synth flourishes.
"The Punch" dips into an electro-boogie vibe; it's a crew jam featuring rising star vocalist and musician KESSWA, who has worked with Shigeto on previous releases and a 2022 MOCAD museum installation and lights up half of Cherry's ten tracks with her smooth, soulful delivery. Behind the kit, Saginaw provides the percussive punch (as well as synth and glockenspiel), surrounded by the personnel that has comprised his live band and Versions (GI-340, 2019) ensemble, including Ian Finkelstein, Dez Andrés, and later, Marcus Elliot.
The collaborative spirit that runs through Cherry Blossom Baby widens its range. Rapper Cleveland Thrasher brings raspy bars to the hypnotic "Runnup On'm" with harpist Ahya Simone, the trap/breakbeat-wielding "BookaMagick," and across the pop grooves of "Nothing Simple," where he bobs and weaves with producer/DJ Tammy Lakkis. Guitarist Sasha Kashperko riffs through several tracks, giving the material a loungier feel — "I've always wanted a great guitarist on my tracks," says Saginaw. Ahya Simone returns to elevate "Let's Talk" to the cosmos. Her harp parts represent a natural progression for the Shigeto sound; whereas in the past, he might have collaged string elements together, he leans back in the open space and lets it all flow organically.
Expanding on the title's metaphor, Shigeto is pushing forward with the people around him: "A cherry blossom is regrowing, but it's always different too, and I'm speaking to that with all the different musicians on this record, getting everyone involved and honoring their contributions is part of that cherry blossom philosophy.” More
Heritage has been at the heart of Saginaw's recording project from the start; his middle name is Shigeto, a name passed down from his great grandfather, which means "to grow" — it was apt given his premature birth weight of less than a pound, and remains fitting for the evolution of his artistry, now nearly 15 years since he signed to Ghostly. On Lineage (GI-148, 2012), Saginaw grappled with an ancestral story; the artwork contrasted photos taken of his great-grandfather's home in Hiroshima in 1916 and later at the Amache Internment Camp in Grenada, Colorado, where he and his family were sent during the Second World War. The line continues through Cherry Blossom Baby, which finds Saginaw drawing inspiration from the cherry trees that bloom every spring at Hiroshima, an enduring image of hope, resilience, and renewal.
Saginaw's been searching, a simmering introspection that surfaced in recent years as nightlife paused and he began to question the idea of Shigeto, the performer and Michigan fixture. "My identity is always something I've struggled with, not being really considered Japanese, not being considered white. I think Shigeto was a way for me to have this identity, to create one for myself that I can latch onto, and it suddenly didn't exist anymore." The realization pushed him to work on himself, to come back to his craft and his community, laying the groundwork for a record that rises from the figurative ashes anew.
A reaffirmed sense of self, momentum, and maturation is apparent in where Saginaw situates here as a songwriter and producer arranging ideas alongside Detroit's finest, a physical manifestation of his WDET 101.9FM show highlighting “forward-thinking music from the Detroit Diaspora.” Every track is a collaboration, be it with a vocalist or multiple instrumentalists, a tradition forged in his Portage Garage studio sessions. "It's the first time I'm writing this stuff myself and getting these players to make it even better…it's impossible to have made it at this level without them." The production and mix favor a full, throwback quality, eschewing modern compression for more spacious dynamics, a nod to psych and jazz records of the '70s and '80s. "It was on purpose but also subconsciously, playing live with jazz bands and DJing b2b with mentors like Dez Andrés, playing older sounds over the last decade. Sonically I wanted to make this record feel like you could see multiple people in a studio."
The group puts egos aside to pursue the best possible outcomes, like Saginaw's choice to invite drummer Ian Maciak (Machinedrum) for the early standout "Ready. Set. Flex,” which takes off with drum & bass velocity. "Ian's sound is unmatched, I can't play jungle breaks like Ian and I thought, how cool would it be if I could get another drummer to play that track?" Above the breaks and a rolling piano loop, there's Zelooperz, the ascendant rapper and Bruiser Brigade member (as well as Shigeto's partner in 2017 project ZGTO), rattling off a series of cerebral lines, with upright bass from Josef Deas (a Portage Garage alum) and Saginaw's synth flourishes.
"The Punch" dips into an electro-boogie vibe; it's a crew jam featuring rising star vocalist and musician KESSWA, who has worked with Shigeto on previous releases and a 2022 MOCAD museum installation and lights up half of Cherry's ten tracks with her smooth, soulful delivery. Behind the kit, Saginaw provides the percussive punch (as well as synth and glockenspiel), surrounded by the personnel that has comprised his live band and Versions (GI-340, 2019) ensemble, including Ian Finkelstein, Dez Andrés, and later, Marcus Elliot.
The collaborative spirit that runs through Cherry Blossom Baby widens its range. Rapper Cleveland Thrasher brings raspy bars to the hypnotic "Runnup On'm" with harpist Ahya Simone, the trap/breakbeat-wielding "BookaMagick," and across the pop grooves of "Nothing Simple," where he bobs and weaves with producer/DJ Tammy Lakkis. Guitarist Sasha Kashperko riffs through several tracks, giving the material a loungier feel — "I've always wanted a great guitarist on my tracks," says Saginaw. Ahya Simone returns to elevate "Let's Talk" to the cosmos. Her harp parts represent a natural progression for the Shigeto sound; whereas in the past, he might have collaged string elements together, he leans back in the open space and lets it all flow organically.
Expanding on the title's metaphor, Shigeto is pushing forward with the people around him: "A cherry blossom is regrowing, but it's always different too, and I'm speaking to that with all the different musicians on this record, getting everyone involved and honoring their contributions is part of that cherry blossom philosophy.” More
1
East Coast Love Affair - Musica Para Todos (Feat. For Mankind)
2
East Coast Love Affair - Ullal De Da Coloms
3
East Coast Love Affair - Punta Moscarter
4
East Coast Love Affair - Xylocopa Violacea (Feat. For Mankind)
5
East Coast Love Affair - The Morrígan Sings (Feat. For Mankind)
6
East Coast Love Affair - Stay Above With Love (Feat. For Mankind)
7
East Coast Love Affair - I Can't Wait (Feat. Philomenah)
8
East Coast Love Affair - A Gradual Precipitation
Our close friend and fellow Scot, now Ibiza resident, Pikes resident DJ and island favourite, 'For Mankind' (Russ Forman) had talked about doing a studio collaboration for some time. Last winter, we finally managed to get in the studio and make some music.
Drawn upon our mutual loves of house music, dub and weirdo dance music by the likes of African Head Charge, Larry Heard and Sun Ra. We also added sprinkles of influence from other oddball tracks that make up our more interesting sets. We spent hours just pulling and listening to records from all our collections and talking about music before hitting the studio.
What resulted from the session is a beautiful and exciting blend of everyone's taste - dreamy, minimal, almost techno synthscapes, New York oddball house that sounds like some lost Sleeping Bag test press to almost Música Popular Brasileira.
At one point Russ, (For Mankind) grabbed the mic and hit us with his best pidgin Spanish, this snowballed onto a few more tracks, so we felt it only right the LP should also bear his name. Russ' vocal came as a surprise to us all, loose, funky, wild and carefree, (like the man himself), with positivity and a message: This music is for everyone. We should all work together, help and contribute.
Our good friend Hanna (Philomenah) also brings her giant talent on Brazilian influenced 'I Can't wait', expect to hear a lot more from this Shetland-born singer on Athens of the North and elsewhere. More
Drawn upon our mutual loves of house music, dub and weirdo dance music by the likes of African Head Charge, Larry Heard and Sun Ra. We also added sprinkles of influence from other oddball tracks that make up our more interesting sets. We spent hours just pulling and listening to records from all our collections and talking about music before hitting the studio.
What resulted from the session is a beautiful and exciting blend of everyone's taste - dreamy, minimal, almost techno synthscapes, New York oddball house that sounds like some lost Sleeping Bag test press to almost Música Popular Brasileira.
At one point Russ, (For Mankind) grabbed the mic and hit us with his best pidgin Spanish, this snowballed onto a few more tracks, so we felt it only right the LP should also bear his name. Russ' vocal came as a surprise to us all, loose, funky, wild and carefree, (like the man himself), with positivity and a message: This music is for everyone. We should all work together, help and contribute.
Our good friend Hanna (Philomenah) also brings her giant talent on Brazilian influenced 'I Can't wait', expect to hear a lot more from this Shetland-born singer on Athens of the North and elsewhere. More
1
Glow - Acid House Planet
2
Thee Church Ov Acid House - Coming Home
3
Tyson - Mizubishi (Thee Church Ov Acid House Remix)
4
Elektra - Thunder
5
Thee Church Ov Acid House - Waves Ov Power
6
Random Noise Generator - SM 58 (Thee Church Ov Acid House Schranz Mix)
w&p: all tracks by Oliver Bradford & Jörn Elling Wuttke
This is the final of the TCOAH trilogy on Pudel Produkte, Thee Vol. 3
Genres: Acid, House, Techno, Elektro
Tracklist:
A1 Glow - Acid House Planet
A2 Thee Church Ov Acid House - Coming Home
A3 Tyson - Mizubishi (Thee Church Ov Acid House Remix)
B1 Elektra - Thunder
B2 Thee Church Ov Acid House - Waves Ov Power
B3 Random Noise Generator - SM 58 (Thee Church Ov Acid House Schranz Mix)
With THEE CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE's third EP, the miracle is now complete, the trinity has come full circle, the triptych is complete, the church has fully handed over the Holy Spirit to its disciples. For this celebration, apostles such as Glow, Tyson and Elektra, as well as the church leaders of THEE CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE themselves, come together again to celebrate a Dionysian Bachanal.
It starts with Glow's ‘Acid House Planet’, an epic-ambient call to the gods at the foot of the Acid House Olympus.
And the next track on the EP, ‘Coming Home’, a no less epic house tune that calls the children of faith home to the church with the vocoder voice of the gods, shows that they listen to their disciples.
‘Mitzubishi’ by Tyson celebrates the holy sacrament of acid painting in chords that melt on the tongue like a lollipop over a ritual beat.
This is followed by Elektra, which has already provided highlights on the previous EPs. And this time too, her hypnotic acid anthem worms its way deep into the ear canals and brains of the trance-listening worshippers.
Shortly before the end, the church leaders return to deliver an abstract breakbeat hymn with ‘Waves Ov Power’, which, surrounded by numerous sample memories of house history, sings of the pure power of the acid ecstasy techno religion.
Finally, THEE CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE disciples are dismissed from the service with a powerful hymn of distorted bass drums, namely Random Noise Generator's ‘SM 58’ in the T.C.O.A.H. Schranz remix - a track that will give the inspired followers of the CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE enough strength to spread the happy acid message throughout the land.
Amen.
More
This is the final of the TCOAH trilogy on Pudel Produkte, Thee Vol. 3
Genres: Acid, House, Techno, Elektro
Tracklist:
A1 Glow - Acid House Planet
A2 Thee Church Ov Acid House - Coming Home
A3 Tyson - Mizubishi (Thee Church Ov Acid House Remix)
B1 Elektra - Thunder
B2 Thee Church Ov Acid House - Waves Ov Power
B3 Random Noise Generator - SM 58 (Thee Church Ov Acid House Schranz Mix)
With THEE CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE's third EP, the miracle is now complete, the trinity has come full circle, the triptych is complete, the church has fully handed over the Holy Spirit to its disciples. For this celebration, apostles such as Glow, Tyson and Elektra, as well as the church leaders of THEE CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE themselves, come together again to celebrate a Dionysian Bachanal.
It starts with Glow's ‘Acid House Planet’, an epic-ambient call to the gods at the foot of the Acid House Olympus.
And the next track on the EP, ‘Coming Home’, a no less epic house tune that calls the children of faith home to the church with the vocoder voice of the gods, shows that they listen to their disciples.
‘Mitzubishi’ by Tyson celebrates the holy sacrament of acid painting in chords that melt on the tongue like a lollipop over a ritual beat.
This is followed by Elektra, which has already provided highlights on the previous EPs. And this time too, her hypnotic acid anthem worms its way deep into the ear canals and brains of the trance-listening worshippers.
Shortly before the end, the church leaders return to deliver an abstract breakbeat hymn with ‘Waves Ov Power’, which, surrounded by numerous sample memories of house history, sings of the pure power of the acid ecstasy techno religion.
Finally, THEE CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE disciples are dismissed from the service with a powerful hymn of distorted bass drums, namely Random Noise Generator's ‘SM 58’ in the T.C.O.A.H. Schranz remix - a track that will give the inspired followers of the CHURCH OV ACID HOUSE enough strength to spread the happy acid message throughout the land.
Amen.
More
1
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Unisun
2
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Ella
3
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Diskotopia
4
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Dusk
5
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - OP32
6
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Officer Chimes
7
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Madvember
8
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Syrakus
9
Combo Aspik, Magic Manfred - Outro Lado
Combo Aspik is a session band project founded and led by musician, producer and DJ Magic Manfred. The bass player teamed up with some of Berlin’s finest session musicians to produce a self-titled debut album fusing live music and club culture. The tunes are heavily influenced by Boogie and Jazzfunk of the late 70s and early 80s such as the music of Bernard Wright, Don Blackman or any underground Disco gems.
David Guy - Drums
Florian Schultz - Guitar
Gerrit Ebeling - Keys
Tim Hoffmann - Percussion
Magic Manfred - Bass, Vision
Tracklist:
A1 Unisun
A2 Ella
A3 Diskotopia
A4 Dusk
B1 OP32
B2 Officer Chimes
B3 Madvember
B4 Syrakus
B5 Outro Lado More
David Guy - Drums
Florian Schultz - Guitar
Gerrit Ebeling - Keys
Tim Hoffmann - Percussion
Magic Manfred - Bass, Vision
Tracklist:
A1 Unisun
A2 Ella
A3 Diskotopia
A4 Dusk
B1 OP32
B2 Officer Chimes
B3 Madvember
B4 Syrakus
B5 Outro Lado More