Music Reviews

Show: New reviews | Artists beginning with: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 0-9 | Compilations

	Sun Circle - Reborn
	Futuristica Music
	Simon S’s soulful electronic compositions and Deborah’s angelic vocals have given birth to many wonderful Futuristica recordings. With “Reborn” the duo has crafted a canvas filled with sublime down tempo music that will paint pictures of peace and serenity. Among the highlights are “If You Speak”, a jazz influenced soulful tune enhanced by a lovely melody and warm yet subtle keyboard arrangements. “My Story” is a lush arrangement that features Deborah supported by lush strings These compositions would sound great with anyone but when Deborah lays her vocals down, they turn to gold. Simon’s catalogue continues to grow with high quality music and is firmly established as one of the leaders of electronic soul filled with melodic jazzy soundscapes and this record is further proof of that. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 08/10
	Flying Lotus - Cosmogramma
	Warp Records
	Flying Lotus’s adventures in experimentation has made him one of the most sought after producers on the scene. His latest release, “Cosmogramma” will only add to that. Lotus skillfully meshes multiple sounds like classical, jazz and hip hop and adds assortment of multiple colors to them. The result is a disc filled with celestial arrangements that pushes the music deep into cyber space and the next thing you know you’re soaring right along with him. Among the highlights are “Intro of Cosmic Drama”, filled with kinetic synth arrangements. “MmmBmm” is a laidback space odyssey that features Thundercat on vocals and bass. “Do the Astral Plane” is a intergalactic cyber funk jam that is, like many of the tracks here too short but enjoyable nonetheless. Each track feels like an extended snippet, just as you’re getting deep into track it’s on the next one. However it’s a ride that you’ll certainly enjoy. “Cosmogramma” is a journey into the mind of Flying Lotus. It’s a trip to places you probably didn’t realize existed but you’re glad you traveled there. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 08/10
	Electric Wire Hustle - Electric Wire Hustle
	BBE Records
	Every year there is one record that comes out of nowhere and before you know it, that record has become part of your daily musical rotation. There is a strong chance that once you start listening to Electric Wire Hustle, it will become a part of your rotation too. The debut album from the New Zealand based trio successfully merges old school soul with an eclectic array of nu-soul, psychedelic funk and thick ear splitting beats. With the silky soulful vocals of Mara TK, EWH hits on all cylinders. The opening track “Test The Waters”, has Mara’s expressive vocals complimenting the brooding hypnotic with overwhelming results. “Walk On” is a sensual psychedelic gem augmented by the pairing of Mara and Stacy Epps. The song is delivered in a laid back manner and may lull you into a dreamy state of mind and you’ll find no fault with that “This World” is future soul accompanied by uber talented Georgia Anne Muldrow. While the guest appearances would certainly aid any project, make no mistake this record stands firm on the strengths of the trio. Taay Ninh’s multi-instrumental talents are all over this record as are the trio’s production skills and Myele Manzanza’s drumming is felt throughout. How refreshing to play a disc from start to finish with nary a weak track in it’s path. Quite simply, this is one great record that deserves a space with your collection. As for EWH, the future looks very bright. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 08/10
	Various Artists - Brownswood Bubblers Five
	Brownswood Recordings
	It seems like yesterday that the Brownswood series began and here we are already on Bubblers five. Gilles Peterson is consistent with shining the light on underground gems that warrant your attention, this one is no exception. There are plenty of delights in all forms to enjoy like the opening track “They Don’t Want It”, a raw no holds barred electro soul jam courtesy of New Zealand’s Electric Wire Hustle. “Lil Girl” is a down tempo groover that combines the multi instrumental talents of Shafiq Husayn of SA-RA Creative Partners and warm blissful vocals of Fatima. “Into My Life” has a cinematic like intro before it morphs into a dark piano driven gem courtesy of Ron Basejam. The songstress Nailah is a perfect example of why the Bubblers series are so important. Her voice will remind you of Nina Simone one minute and Cassandra Wilson the next. The track “Sacred” will have you seeking more of her work. Likewise for Michael Olatuja, the guitarist and former member of Terrance Blanchard’s band features the late Lynden David Hall on “Hold On” that not only beautiful but also reminds you how sorely missed he is. There is much more to explore and plenty to appreciate until the next volume drops so treat yourself to some of the finest talent you’ve never heard of. After one listen you won’t soon forget them. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 08/10
	Various Artists - Afro Rock Vol.1
	Strut Records
	Once again the folks at Strut records have dug up and dusted off a hidden gem. Afro Rock Vol.1 features hard to find music out of East Africa from the 60’s and 70’s. Originally released on Duncan Brooker’s Kona label in 2001, the music will now have a wider audience to educate on just how prominent the soul and funk scene was in the Motherland. Some of the talent to emerge during that scene is Gerado Pinto. Known as the Nigerian James Brown, Gerado and The Heartbeats bring the funk on the energetic organ grinding “Heavy Heavy Heavy”. On “Africa”, they bring the tempo down considerably and create a spirited jazz inspired gem. “Mebala” is a mid-tempo guitar driven funk track that is reminiscent of prominent rhythm sections of that era. Overall “Afro Rock Vol. 1” is an entertaining polyrhythmic blend of Afican rhythms and seventies soul influences. This is essential World music that shouldn’t be missed. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 08/10
	SK Radicals - Urban Eclectiks
	Freestyle Records
	There have been many groups that have presented projects as diverse as SK Radicals full length release “Urban Electriks”. Very few however have succeeded in creating a project that grooves and swings as well as this one. Sean Khan, the producer and driving force behind the group has crafted an album that weaves seamlessly between jazz and funk while demonstrating that they’re equally adept at both. Take for example the lead single “Troubled Times”, a laidback deep funk tune that speaks to the stressful climate that we’re all living under today. The following track “My Story” is a swinging jazz tune features superb piano melodies from Sean and the gorgeous vocals of Susan Allotey. “Free Yourself” is an up-tempo acid jazz flavored funk groover. Although “Urban Eclectiks” presented only ten tracks in all, each selection is quality and allows the disc to flow at steady pace while maintaining the groove throughout. It has taken Sean several years to deliver a full length project after several successful singles. Let’s hope that this is the first of many albums in the group’s future. Highly recommended. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 08/10
	Lewis McCallum - Syntheology
	Finch Studios
	Lewis McCallum’s background is rooted in jazz but it’s his love of beats that make his records stand out. His latest release, “Syntheology” is no exception. Lewis’s synth flavored compositions on this disc are more progressive than on his debut “Wake”. As a result the groove is a little edgier but the vocals are still satisfying and the instrumentals are very funky. Speaking of vocalists, let’s start with Deva Mahal, who blesses the modern funky “Take A Step Back”. “Tales of Mingus” is a wicked instrumental that displays Lewis’s wizardry at beat programming. The track “New Someone feat Tama Walpara” is a high energy soulful house track that would feel right at home in a club. “Deviate” feat. Cherie Mathieson is a clearly one of the strongest tracks here. This is a great example of funky instrumentation and smoothing vocals merging together. There are many records rely solely on digital programming yet “Syntheology” still maintains a soulful quality, largely because the vocalists on board. Lewis is already well known in his native New Zealand but he is certain to build a bigger audience with this impressive effort. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 07/10
	Osunlade - Rebirth
	Yoruba Records
	When you think of Osunlade, you think of spiritual house music of the highest order. You will find nothing of the sort on his latest release “Rebirth”, instead you’re treated to an assortment of down tempo nusoul compositions written and produced by the man himself. Each song packs plenty of lyrical depth and has a personal feel overall. “Paint Me A Picture” is a warm atmospheric gem driven by a gorgeous piano melody that will take your mind to a peaceful place. “The Dating Game”, the first single released has an easy going uptempo groove that captures that signature Osunlade sound. “Complacent” is a pretty acoustic tune with strings about a person pursuing their passions once and for all instead of years of pursuing the dreams of others. Overall “Rebirth” is a nice laidback record to relax to on lazy afternoons. It also demonstrates an artist with immeasurable talent who continues to grow and expand his music in all directions. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 07/10
	Georgia Anne Muldrow - Kings Ballad
	Ubiquity Records
	It’s safe to say that no one has released more albums in the last year than Georgia Anne Muldrow. While most of those releases have been uneven at best, her latest, “Kings Ballad” is without a doubt the best of the bunch. With “Kings Ballad”, Georgia has created an album that is as close to a mainstream project as anything she has ever done. That’s not to say she has watered down her sound, far from it. She’s simply modeled fourteen funky tunes in her image and reveals yet another layer of her immense talents. The first single “Doobie Down”, highlighted with a funky groove and a wicked electric guitar riff, “R.I.P.” is a moving tribute to Michael Jackson that captures the love we all had for him long before he became the King of pop. The eighties inspired “Summer Love” is a synth laden G-funk flavored joint that pairs her with her mate, Dudley Perkins. The two play the roles of young lovers feeling each other out in hope of a promising relationship. “Live” is a sweet lullaby about following your heart and pursuing your dreams. Overall this is a solid record and certainly her most satisfying since “Olesi; Fragments of Earth”. While we wait for that one signature record that encapsulates all of her talents, you’ll no doubt enjoy this one in the meantime. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 07/10
	TY - Special Kind Of Fool
	BBE Records
	In many ways, Ty is a throwback. He is a rapper who is comfortable in his own skin without feeding into the hype of being someone he’s not. Nor is he interested in being trendy, instead he moves you with intelligent yet engaging lyrics, not to mention unlimited energy. As he states, “I’m old school, I can rock a party all night”. His latest release, “Special Kind Of Fool” provides all the proof you need. Filled throughout with top shelf production, “Special Kind Of Fool” may be Ty’s best work to date..The first single “Emotions feat Shaun Escoffery” has a irresistible groove. “Get 2 the Sky feat, Vula Malinga and Terri Walker” is easily one of the strongest tracks on the disc. Ty waxes poetic about elevating from the hardships surrounding us to getting to a better place. On “Happiness” Ty utilizes a Hubert Laws hidden gem to fulfill his wish for peace and unity for everyone. If Ty set out to entertain, enlighten and inspire then his mission was accomplished. “Special Kind Of Fool” provides all of that plus beats galore that will have your head nodding throughout. This is a very strong record that will certainly satisfy long time admirers and will no doubt appeal to newcomers as well. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 07/10
	Erykah Badu - New Amerykah: Part II (Return of the Ankh)
	Universal / Island
	So much for the three album in one year project, at least that was the plan Erykah Badu had in mind when she released “New Amerykah Part I” back in 2008. That was an ambitious goal to say the least. Fortunately “New Amerykah” contained enough quality material to keep heads nodding for months so all is forgiven. Besides a quality album shouldn’t be rushed and Erykah’s latest release “New Amerykah: Part II return of the Ankh” is a much stronger effort and well worth the wait Where “New Amerykah Part I was more of a digital effort, “Part II: Return of the Ankh” features live instrumentation that provides a more sonic, soulful feel. As usual, the production features top notch performers like James Poyser and Questlove . They crafted the funky yet sublime “Window Seat”. “You can’t turn me away (Get Munny)” will sound familiar considering that Erykah flips the beat used by the hip-hop group Junior Mafia. Both versions benefit from the Roy Ayers produced Sylvia Striplin classic. The late great J Dilla co-produced the track “Love” another funky yet laidback joint. On “Out of my mind, just in time” Erykah croons to a ten minute track that starts out with a melodic jazzy piano riff and then morphs into an organic breezy gem that serves as a fitting ending to a very satisfying disc. If you’ve been riding with Erykah all these years then you’ll certainly be pleased. If you just hoped aboard for the first time you’ll no doubt enjoy it as well. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 07/10
	Cosmic Groove Orchestra - Time Has Come
	Perfect Toy Records
	Perfect Toy records are demonstrating that they have an ear for quality straight ahead jazz. With the debut of The Cosmic Groove Orchestra’s “Time Has Come”, they display their spiritual side as well. “Time Has Come” is a melodic collection of spiritual sublime jazz that would make Alice Coltrane proud. Alice receives mention here not only for the wonderful work on harp by Kathrin Pechlof but for the meditative serene soundscapes the band creates on each track. Pechlof’s playing blends in perfectly with Jerker Kluge’s work on electric bass on “Walzer For LLse Proskauer”. I’m not sure who’s playing the violin on this track but they sound great nonetheless. “Shelter” is another gem due to the superb work by Kluge once again on electric bass. Matthias Gmelin is tremendous throughout on drums but on “You Know, You Know” his playing really stands out. Overall this is a solid record that you can certainly embrace from start to finish. The Cosmic Groove Orchestra has skillfully created a record that will relax your mind and soothe your soul. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 06/10
	Bajka - In Wonderland
	ChinChin Records
	After fifteen years of performing on numerous projects for other artists such as Radio Citizen, Bonobo and Beanfield, Bajka finally releases her long awaited debut, “In Wonderland”. The Indian born and South African raised singer delivers an exceptional album inspired by “The Hunting of the Snark” a book of poems written by Lewis Carroll, author of Alice in Wonderland. In fact, each song is devoted to a chapter from the book and Bajka brings each song to life with grace and subtlety. Among the highlights is “The Bellman’s Speech”, a dreamy string laden beauty where Bajka weaves her unique blend of singing andspoken word artistry to perfection. “The Barristers Dream” is another treat that is filled with warm melodies and joyful rhythms. “The Baker’s Tale” features superb performances by Daniel Regenberg on piano and Rhodes as well as Jerker Kluge on double bass. They along with drummer Phillip Bernhardt provide a jazz flavored canvas throughout the disc that allows Bajka plenty of space to improvise. Not only is this record is a sheer delight that gets better with each listen, it should give this wonderful artist the recognition she rightfully deserves. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 06/10
	Neil Cowley Trio - Radio Science
	Naim Jazz
	Anyone who has ever listened to pianist Neil Cowley can easily recognize that he is a special talent. He was a child prodigy who has become a force to be reckoned with. Like his previous two releases “Displaced” and “Loud Louder Stop”, this record provides more of his signature classical pop flavored compositions which are enhanced by the intensity he puts into each song. Neil’s orchestral arrangements are lively and engaging. The fun begins with “Monoface”, a track that starts out with a haunting intro and then progresses into a dynamic performance by the ensemble that is full of power and precision. Drummer Evan Jenkins cymbal playing effortlessly complements Neil’s thunderous chordal displays and solo offerings. “Gerald” is a fast paced number that displays the trio’s versatility and range. This is a playful pop tune that displays Neil’s enormous chops. The finale “Portal” is a wonderful fourteen minute cinematic gem that showcases Neil’s talented compositional skills. The song starts out with simmering melody before it bursts with great intensity, only to wind down into a lovely ballad. This isn’t your typical jazz record and probably shouldn’t be categorized as one either. Just sit back and enjoy listening to a trio that is clearly having fun here stretching songs in areas they haven’t been before. You will have fun listening to the results. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 04/10
	Georg Levin - Everything Must Change
	BBE Records
	Georg Levin’s second solo project follows up his critically acclaimed debut “Can’t Hold Back”. “Everything Must Change” provides more of that soulful flavor, this time with some pop rhythms mixed in for good measure. The selections here contain the right balance of electronic beats and live instrumentation that allows you to enjoy repeated listens. The disc starts off with “Need To Understand”, a pleasing mid-tempo tune that starts out as a boogie tune and then shifts into a laidback groove. The title track is a funky synth laden number with strings that harkens back to the danceable beats of the eighties. Georg is joined by Clara Hill on the upbeat disco flavored “The Better Life”. “Time to Reenact” gives an indication of a Georg Levin live set. The song is carried through with a funky rhythm guitar and live drums and proves that Georg can work seamlessly either in the studio or on the stage. While Georg’s voice isn’t overpowering, they’re tailor made for his compositions. Overall, “Everything Must Change” sparkles with good vibes and slick production. Not a bad song on the album, you can easily add this to the track list of your next party or groove to it during an afternoon drive. You’ll be glad you did. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 04/10
	Jose James - Black Magic
	Brownswood Recordings
	Unless you took up residence on the moon two years ago, you surely were among those who celebrated a new voice in Jazz. With “The Dreamer”, Jose James serenaded jazz and non-jazz lovers with a voice not heard since the likes of Johnny Hartman. His velvet tone coupled with outstanding compositions made “The Dreamer” a huge hit. Two years later, Jose returns with “Black Magic” and it’s clear that he’s intent on not reinventing the wheel. Instead he steps out of the box and crafts a gorgeous disc filled with a variety of compositional styles that embarks on an exploration of deep spiritual love and the joy that it brings. The disc starts out with “Code”. The flying Lotus production is a down-tempo hypnotic groover that will have your head nodding within seconds. From this point on, love and sensuality permeates throughout the disc. “Touch” is an intimate portrayal of a man expressing his deep feelings for his mate. Pianist Gideon Van Gelder, who produced and arranged the tune, lays down a beautiful melody for Jose to work his eh, magic. No pun intended. “Promise You Love” is an up-tempo beat driven gem that’s produced by DJ Mitsu The Beats and features Jordana De Lovely on accompanying vocals and Takuya Kuroda on trumpet. “The greater Good” is a soft jazzy number that features precision horn arrangements as well as Gideon on fender Rhodes while Jose courts a woman who may ultimately be the special lady he desires. Jordana appears again on the Taylor McFerrin produced “Love Conversation”, a track that oozes warmth and sensitivity exchanged between two lovers. “No Tellin” may be the only track that resembles anything close to “The Dreamer”. Produced by James, this is a haunting ballad arranged in a trio format that also features him on piano as well. Whatever you do, don’t bother comparing the two discs. Clearly “Black Magic” stands on it’s own as an exceptional record by a rising star. Without a doubt you need this in your collection. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 03/10
	Robert Glasper - Double Booked
	Blue Note Records
	It’s not uncommon for artists to explore various musical styles on separate projects but on “Double-Booked”, Robert Glasper brings two worlds together on one very impressive record. Glasper’s fourth release starts out in the traditional jazz trio setting and begins with “No Worries”. Robert starts this wonderful tune off with a entertaining intro before sequeing into a gorgeous melody. Drummer Chris Dave creates plenty of space and Vicente Archer always provides the right notes for Glasper’s glorious soundscapes. “59 South” is another lovely composition where Robert strikes the right balance between sheer power and delicacy. Things get a little funky as we segue to the experimental set. Robert starts things off with Herbie Hancock’s multi-rhythmic fusion gem “Butterfly”, which also features Casey Benjamin on the vocorder. Casey shines again on alto sax on the spirited aptly named “festival”. “All Matter” is a beautiful ballad that is augmented by the vocals of Bilal. There aren’t many discs out that can capture the essence of beauty on one hand and deliver the funk flavored deep grooves on another but this one does. This is one fabulous record that you shouldn’t miss. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 03/10
	Al Kent - Secret Sounds
	BBE Records
	Without question, there are more than a handful of folks that doubted that Disco would still be relevant yet here we are thirty years later and Disco still has a home in the hearts of many. You can thank artists like Al Kent for giving it the respect it deserves. Fresh off his project with the Million Dollar Orchestra, Al pays tribute to the genre and the DJ’s that made the music so beloved by many and a lightning rod for others with “Secret Sounds”. Al starts things off with an intro for an advertisement for hustle lessons, the featured dance from the early seventies that everyone tried to master with varying degrees of success. This is followed up with the synth flavored disco track “I like it”. “Come back home” is a soulful tune due in large part to Tyrone Taylor on vocals and laced with strings that would make Vince Montana proud. This is arguably the best track on the disc. Normally I don’t get caught up with interludes but in this case it does provide a service in paying respect to the DJ’s in general and to pioneers like Jellybean Benitez and Tee Scott in particular. The impact they had would set the tone for all the prominent DJ’s of today. Other notable tracks include “Get Funky” starts out with a simple keyboard melody before sequeing into a funky disco stomper with horns. “Reverb is your friend” is a sublime mid-tempo track that isn’t quite a disco track; instead it’s a lovely reverb instrumental that could fit nicely into any lounge today. The disc concludes with the percussion laden “Tenner Rap”, a surefire disco jam floor filler. Al Kent’s love for disco is unsurpassed and if you ever loved the music, you’ll appreciate his dedication and no doubt enjoy “Secret sounds”. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 03/10
	Fat Freddy’s Drop - Dr Boondigga & The Big BW
	The Drop
	Fat Freddy’s Drop has already achieved rock star status in their native New Zealand and continues to attract large crowds throughout Europe. Now with their second full length release “Dr Boondigga and The Big BW”, the seven piece band aim for world wide recognition and based on this recording, they may be ready to pull it off. The band’s musical style is an amalgamation of reggae, dub, soul and funk and the musical acumen throughout the group is impressive considering that each member has played vital roles in various groups before merging into this band. The production and horn arrangements shine on the opening track, “Big BW”, a mid-tempo soulful number augmented by the falsetto voice of Joe Dukie, who blesses all remaining tunes as well. “Shiverman” is a ten minute jam session that starts off with a funky electric guitar riffs and features Hopepa on Trombone. “The Raft” is a reggae/dub number complete with a thumping bass line that would be just an average tune if it were performed by a lesser band. Instead the musicianship of this group and Dukie’s vocal abilities make this a bona fide winner. “The Camel” starts out with a wicked improvised electric guitar solo before settling into a funky mid-tempo groove that provides plenty of space for Joe Dukie and special guest Alice Russell to glide over. One listen of this cd will have you checking the FFD website for tour dates. As great as this record will sound coming through your speakers, the experience of hearing them live will cement your admiration for this talented band for years to come. Highly recommended. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 03/10
	Kira Neris - A Frozen Second
	Faces Records
	Kira Neris made a big splash with the 2007 release of “Behind closed doors”, sampling jazz standards and arranging them with dance and house flavored grooves. He picks up where he left off with “A frozen second”, another beautiful collection of edited nu-jazz compositions. Kira starts things off with “Judy in June”, a mid-tempo nu-jazz groover that features warm female vocals dancing over a simple yet poignant piano melody. “Shivering Waltz” is aptly named for its dreamy hush like arrangements. “Rush!” is a foot stomping dance floor gem complemented with sampled piano riffs and warm string arrangements. “Damage!” is a futuristic house track with a hypnotic groove and a funky male vocal hook that repeats the verse “take it and do whatcha wanna do”. Kira Neris’s production talents and his affection for various musical genres are evident and a boon for the listener. This is another wonderful release filled with songs that would fit nicely in a club, a lounge or in your living room. Listen and enjoy. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 03/10
	Dam Funk - Toeachizown
	Stones Throw Records
	After sprinkling several singles over the past year, LA’s Dam Funk releases his much anticipated debut “Toeachizown”. Dam Funk has crafted a funk album that features 80’s synth arrangements reminiscent of pioneers like Zapp, Cameo and a little touch of Prince. The difference is that he has successfully composed his own signature modern funk sound that he can call his own. “Toeachizown” takes on many different moods, from earthy mid-tempo grooves to up-tempo in your face funk. There’s many tracks to savor such as the ambient “Come on Outside” which displays his wizardry with drum programming. “Brookside Park” is a near 10 minute instrumental that would be the perfect leisurely drive jam on a lazy afternoon. “Searchin’ 4 funk’s future” gives a nod to Dam’s love house music. Just imagine Mr Fingers laying down some G-funk and this might be the result. Like past funkateers before him, Dam Funk also proves to be a very capable balladeer, as evidenced on the track “I wanna thank you for”. Overall, “Toeachizown” succeeds by revitalizing a piece of the boogie funk grooves of the past and making it sound relevant today. This is very enjoyable and refreshing debut by an artist poised to make a lot of noise in 2010. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 03/10
	Collage - Fifty Four Minutes Twenty Seconds
	Wool Recordings
	The meaning behind the name Collage is exactly what you might expect, a diverse collection of musical elements. In the case of Collage the group hailing from Estonia , they have assembled an infusion of pop, folk and classical music aptly called Estonian Folk, a nod to the group’s homeland roots. The amazing thing here is that this is a reissue, a recording from the late 60’s that would easily fit in with any current recording of today. Estonia is located on the outskirts of the Soviet Union and is also the location of the Talinn Conservatory School of music, where a group of students was recruited by Ravio Dikson. The results are a peaceful blend of world music. Some of the standout tracks are “Petis Peiu”, a Brazilian flavored tune. “Vastalaul” begins with collective harmonies that would make the Manhattan Transfer proud and then glides into a folk flavored samba. “Ehted Kadunud” is a mid-tempo soul groover with funky rhythm guitar licks. ”Tutar Nubab Ema” is a warm modal jazz ballad that features superb flute playing over a seductive piano melody. Never mind that the tracks here are sung in Finnish. The melodies of the music and the vocal harmonies provide a pleasant listening experience no matter language barriers may exist, not to mention an insight into the musical Estonian musical history. This is certainly worth checking out. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 03/10
	Various Artists - John Morales - The M&M Mixes
	BBE Records
	It’s easy to lose sight of all the quality remixes that emerged during the eighties. After all, a new 12” inch seemingly dropped daily or whenever we frequented our favorite clubs from back in the day. We would rush to our local record shop humming a tune we heard the night before as the top DJ’s were making their mark remixing future dance classics. Thanks to John Morales, we have an opportunity to relive some of those moments with “The M&M Mixes. It’s only fitting since many of those dance classics were mixed by John himself. The “M&M Mixes” is an excellent collection of some of his greatest remixes that were beloved by the dance music community. The disc starts out with “Weekend” a huge club hit mixed by John and also produced by the legendary producer Patrick Adams. Another pleasant surprise and no doubt a worthy addition to this disc is “I want you all tonight” by the late Curtis Hairston. And any compilation that highlights classic club tracks would be shamed if it didn’t include Inner Life’s “Ain’t No Mountain High enough”, which features the great Jocelyn Brown. The ten minute dance floor filler still sounds superb twenty years later. The M&M mixes is a tremendous time travel through a important period in the culture of dance music. The dance music that you love today owes a debt of gratitude to John Morales and the rest of the pioneers that laid it down before them. This compilation will enhance your appreciation as well as keep your body moving. After a self-imposed exile that has lasted nearly ten years, it’s great to have John back blessing us with his timeless music. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 02/10
	Various Artists - DUCK
	M8MC Music
	There are compilations that come and go and then there are some where the heat just keeps coming, track after track after track. The DUCK compilation falls under the latter. DUCK is a concept album that features producers from Derby , UK such as Atjazz, Clyde and Bleep District. This disc also serves a dual purpose not only by delivering quality music but by making charitable contributions. The proceeds from this project go to MacMillan cancer research and QUAD, Derby ’s visual arts studio. Each track contains a musical or lyrical element relating to the unassuming town that resides in the midland of England as well some live instrumentation. The disc starts out with the Brazilian mid-tempo “Teu Sorriso” (Your Smile) by YSE, ripe with wonderful guitar work by Carlos and vocals by Nego. Things heat up right after that with “I Got Soul” by Supalouisa, a energetic dance floor filler. Former Mantis recordings member and Derby native Clyde contributes to the cause with the funky “Swedish Blue”. Atjazz’s “Kidnapped in Kathmandu-rby” is a chilled out dance floor gem that has strong appeal. Make no mistake, a disc full of thumping beats like this and a worthy cause to match easily makes this purchase money well spent. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 02/10
	Deep Jazz - Heaven & Earth
	Perfect Toy Records
	Hailing from Germany , Jerker Kluge and his Deep Jazz ensemble deliver a spirited collection of 60’s inspired jazz that would fit nicely in the Impulse or Blue Note library. Kluge, shifting between double bass and upright bass wrote two of the compositions and co-wrote another (Starlings Talk). The opening title track is a mellow modal number that is driven by Florian Riedl on flute and Julia Fehenberger on vocals. “Black Tiger” is a riveting number that showcases superb soloing by Martin Fredebeul on Soprano sax, followed by Ulrich Wangenheim on bass clarinet and Till Martin on Tenor. The up-tempo bop “Red Smoke” also features the three horn players but it’s the work of pianist Jo Junghanss that steals the show. His inspired playing here and on the other tracks is simply breathtaking. Jerker doesn’t break any new ground here but he succeeds by breathing new life into the genre and the result is timeless music that any jazz enthusiast will enjoy. (Permalink) Reg Dancy, 02/10