By Simon Harrison (Basic Soul), Andy Allen (ukvibe), Tom Breslin (Stars & Rockets), Marcia Carr (Talking Music)
Reg Dancy (Catchagroove ), Graham Radley (World Unlimited), Tim Stenhouse (ukvibe) and Steve Williams (ukvibe)
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
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Various Artists - Karen P ...Broadcasting | Sonar Kollektiv | The name Karen P may not be familiar to many at first but listeners of Gilles Peterson’s worldwide show on Radio 1 will certainly make the connection. Karen is not only contributing to the third installment of Sonar Kollektiv’s broadcasting series but she has also produced two tracks here with Si Begg. Karen has assembled this disc to play out like an actual radio show and it certainly works. She has definitely learned the art of “connecting the dots” as Gilles is known for. Broadcasting starts out with the eclectic “Pikku Myyn Laulu” by Moomin Voices. The first half then settles into a folk vibe. A definite highlight would include Jamie Woon’s acoustic “Robots” from his 2007 ep. The bluesy “BlueJay” by Owusu and Hannibal is another favorite that fits in well with the first half of the disc which immediately shifts gears with Tettory Bad’s “Unite”, a hip hop flavored track that features the soulful vocals of Fatima. The second half of the disc continues to groove thanks to the sophisticated soul of Jimi Tenor’s “Spell”. Aaron Jerome’s “Brighter Days” feat Andreya Triana is a definite club banger. This track and Stereotyp’s “Take The Weight” are light soulful house tracks that are pure heat. Karen P shows she has a great ear for quality music of all flavors. Thanks to her, “Broadcasting” is a winner that provides definite satisfaction. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Various Artists - Ron Trent & Jerome Sydenham Present Need 2 Soul Vol.01 | Need2Soul Music | Need 2 Soul brings together two of house music’s premier DJ’s, Ron Trent & Jerome Sydenham. Ron Trent needs no introduction. He has crafted his niche by emphasizing percussion in his house music productions, thereby giving his compositions warmth and richness. He has selected house tracks of the highest quality like the uplifting “Across The Universe” by Indigenous Space People. The blaze remix of Sunshine Anderson’s “Force Of Nature” is another highlight. The disc wraps up with the beautiful “Manzana De Mi Vida” by Glenn Underground. Jerome Sydenham takes over on disc 2. His selections are more into the deep house dish, with some tracks venturing into techno but wonderful selections nonetheless. Francois Dubois “I Try” is a wonderful keyboard laden stomper. “Atmospheric System” has a fierce pulsating groove with an enticing organ work. “Let The Sun Shine Out” by Flora Cruze is the only vocal track on disc 2. Flora’s powerful vocals and the thumpin’ funky house rhythms bring this disc to a rousing finale. Need 2 Soul have been blessing us with wonderful compilations for years. This fabulous work by two of house music’s premier DJs is no exception. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Pat D - Take A Little Time | A Bridge Too Far Recordings | Beatmaker Patrick Dooner, aka Pat D returns with the impressive "Take A Little Time". Pat D was last heard from with his 2007 album “Kind Of Peace”. That disc offered a glimpse of Pat D’s production talents. Then further proof came when he remixed Common’s "The 6th Sense" last year. It’s clear that he has been a student of hip hop’s true school producers like DJ Premier and Prince Paul. His debut cd "Take A Little Time" is a collection of laidback soulful hip hop inspired beats to chill to. Pat D has assembled an eclectic collection of underground rappers and vocalists from the UK to New York to take his tracks to another level. One of those rappers would be Melodiq. His easygoing style fits perfectly on "Relax Your Mind." The underappreciated "Voice" lays down her customary lyrical brilliance on "Fly Away". Lauren Jade serves up some sweet soulful vocals on “Need Me Around”. Pat D doesn’t break any new ground here but his beat making prowess has allowed him to create a disc that breathes old school hip hop with a breezy feel good vibe. This is a very enjoyable record that is definitely worth a listen. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Karl Hector & The Malcouns - Sahara Swing | Now-Again Records | Karl Hector and The Malcouns are a ten piece group making their Stones Throw records debut. Karl teams up with Jay Whitefield, who has worked with respected funk groups like the Poets Of Rhythm and The Whitefield Brothers. Together they fuse a unique blend of hard driving funk and afrobeat rhythms. If the JB’s and Fela Kuti had ever been in a studio together, the results would be similar to what we have here. The track “Nyx” is full of syncopated funk, a thumping bass and lively rhythm guitars. “Koloko Pt. 1” offers more of the same only the horn section makes their presence felt here. “Mystical Brotherhood” is a downtempo gem with a funky rhythm guitar and searing organ riffs. There’s very little vocals sung here but that doesn’t matter, the Malcouns keep you locked in with an assortment of funky polyrhythmic gems that will keep your head nodding non-stop. This is Karl’s first known record in about twelve years, let’s hope that he plans to perform much more often this time around. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Unforscene - Fingers and Thumbs | Tru Thoughts Recordings | There must be something in the water in Bristol because they continue to bless us with great music. This time the honors belong to the trio known as Unforscene. The brothers Will and Ben Bower plus Ben Muscat deliver a disc that features downtempo soul as well as hip hop, folk and electronica. Disc one is more mellow while disc two packs a lot more funk. There are many highlights so I’ll just point out a few. “See The Light”, is a laid-back track with a funky groove and features the voice of J Todd. “Sidewinder” is a wonderful modern classical piece with lush strings that has a cinematic feel to it. “So Long" feat Nik Young is warm and melodic with nice chords to match. Unforscene manages to weave together the electronic with the live instrumentation, specifically Will Bower’s drumming and percussion work on tracks like “I’m Just A Prisoner” and “Alright”. Their ability to arrange classical sounds with funk and broken beats on this project is a joy to listen. Add to that the familiar faces like Alice Russell, Deborah Jordan and newcomers like Epcot and you have an exceptional record that shouldn’t be missed. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Flyt - Soul Mentality | Futuristica Music | From the moment you start listening to “Free”, the opening track from Soul Mentality, you know you’re about to embark on peaceful journey of sublime soulful music. “Soul Mentality” is the debut of Mary and Joshua Mycroft, better known as Flyt. Together they've carved out eleven tracks that will transport you into soul heaven. Joshua handles the production and keys while Mary breathes life into every track. Among the delights, “Beautiful Love” is a lovely ethereal ballad and “The Journey’s Over” a soothing melodic groover. All in all a fine debut by FlyT and another winner for Futuristica. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Carlos Nino & Lil Sci - What’s the Science | Shaman Work Recordings | Spiritual jazz meets conscious hip-hop. Carlos Nino, perhaps best known for his work with avant garde vocalist Dwight Trible teams up with John Robinson, aka Lil Sci. Lil Sci, also known for his work with the group Scienz Of Life is an underground rapper cut from the mode of hip hop legends like KRS-1 and Brand Nubian. That certainly sounds like lofty praise but Lil Sci more than lives up to it. “The Right Song feat Tiffany Page” has that feeling of lazy summer days in the park. Carlos creates an organic mood on the fender Rhodes that reflects a laid-back California vibe while Lil Sci speaks of the chemistry that’s emerging between him and a west coast babe. On “Circulate”, Lil Sci spreads the knowledge of self, hence the verse “Witness the focus of a man, as greater and wise to last era, he moves with a stealth disguise like mascara, spreading his gospel, colossal so clever, no thank you it’s my pleasure, to deliver great measures of quality all in your microbiology”. Poignant lyrics can only take you so far and Carlos's production is on point to elevate the music. His blend of cosmic jazz works well on the Pharoah Sanders remake “Freedom” and the Dwight Tribble assisted “The Dream”. There are many other hip hop releases that will garner more fanfare. It would be a shame if you were to overlook this one. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Soul Designers - Evolutionism | Third Ear | “Evolutionism” is the new release from Fabrice Lig, aka Soul Designer. The fact that this recording is on Third Ear recordings is fitting because this disc embodies the high quality techno soul that would make the forefathers of Detroit techno proud. Soul Designer is Juan Atkins, Derrick May and Kevin Saunderson. Kevin, in particular had an huge influence on Fabrice’s sound which can be heard throughout here. The title track, sans vocals is techno funk with deep soulful grooves. “The Power Of A City” is another winner. Special guest Clo providing soulful vocals while Fabrice combines synths and thumping bass licks to complement the scorching beats. With poet/rapper Hbk Finn providing thought provoking spoken word regarding the concerns for humanity in between tracks, “Evolutionism” is truly music for the mind and the soul and Fabrice’s most inspiring work to date. Reg Dancy, 07/08 |
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Gadjologie - Gadjologie | Milan Records | Oh this is very tasty, recorded ‘live’ in the studio, the French gypsy jazzers like to use their two guitars, violin and double bass to take us from chilled to punky with accomplished playing and freedom of spirit. Take a listen to their take on Frank Zappa’s ‘Blessed Relief’ with a guest accordion player adding that extra something. Excellent. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Tekameli - Escolteu | Milan Records | These three excellent Roma musicians from southern France, Jean Soler, Salomon Espinas and Julio Bermudez and their guests play Rumba Catalana and Flamenca with great style. This is a collection of religious songs and chants which range from sad to happy but always with passion and wonderful musicianship. Top notch. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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The Bosshoss - Stalion Battalion | Island (Universal) | From Berlin they remind me of a good time pub band steeped in the traditions of rock and roll, blues and country meeting up with Hayseed Dixie especially on the covers they do which includes Electric Six’s ‘Gay Bar’ and Depeche Mode’s ‘Everything Counts’. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Various Artists - Putumayo presents Café Cubano | Putumayo | Guajiras, trovas and boleros from Jose Conde y Ola Fresca, Ignacio ‘Mazacote’ Carrillo, Pedro Luis Ferrer, Rene Ferrer, La Orquestra Magica De La Habana, German Obregon, Armando Garzon, Asere, Felix Baloy and Kelvis Ochoa. It is of course very good. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Various Artists - Battlefield Band In Concert | Temple Records | Filmed at the Brunton Theatre in Musselburgh this has Mike Katz, Alasdair White, Sean O’Donnell and Alan Reid showcasing 14 tracks which include The Merry Macs Set, I’m Going To Set You Free, The Emigrant and the Sisters Reel Set. Terrific stuff from some real legends of Scottish traditional music. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Various Artists - The Rough Guide To Calypso Gold | World Music Network | Compiled by Jean Michel Gibert we get 20 glorious Trinidadian tracks that bring us from the orchestras of the 1920’s to the calypso boom time of the 1950’s. Featured artists include King Radio, Lord Kitchener, Calypso Rose, The Mighty Bomber and Houdini. Yes this is Calypso Gold. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Rupa and The April Fishes - Extraordinary Rendition | Cumbancha | Another superb Cumbancha release , this time focussed on singer/guitarist/composer Rupa, a fascinating character (she’s also a physician in San Francisco) her earlier life involved living in a variety of countries which has meant she writes songs in a variety of languages languages, including French, Spanish, Hindi and English. The music also has many influences including gypsy, Indian and contemporary Latin, think Manu Chao meets Dengue Fever meets French Chanson and you’ll be in the right direction, better still seek it out and make up your own mind whilst you enjoy. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Various Artists - The Rough Guide To The Music of Mali | World Music Network | No shortage of options here in terms of artists and to prove that we get Bassekou Kouyate & Ngoni Ba, Amadou & Mariam, Oumou Sangare, Rokia Traore, Vieux Farka Toure , Tinariwen and Afel Bocoum. Excellent selection of artists and of course superb music. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Various Artists - Sound Of The World presents: Beyond The Horizon | Warner Classics | Double CD compiled by Charlie Gillett, 34 tracks altogether with a nice wide global mix. Probably best for me to list a few and that way you’ll get a better feel of where the compilation is coming from. Yasmin Levy, Almasala, DJ Delores, Dengue Fever, Nancy Arjam, Madilu System, Ceu, Lucky Dube and Servara, gives you an idea of the range of countries and styles. A good summer soundtrack. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Ponto de Equilibrio - Abre a Janela | Warner Music | Brazilian reggae from Northern Rio and the bands second CD. Great production by Chico Neves with singer Helio Bentes adding a rawness to the tightness of the band. I like. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Various Artists - Nigeria Rock Special - Psychedelic Afro-Rock and Fuzz Funk in 1970s Nigeria | Soundway Records | I love this, yes it’s often dated and often raw but those are its strengths too with the infectious enthusiasm of what, at the time, (these recordings cover 1972-1979) was a youthful explosion of new influences as the rock of Hendrix mashed up with heavy African rhythms. Among the featured artists are Mono Mono, The Hygrades, Tabukah ‘X’, The Elcados and Ofege. Really good. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Buika - Nina De Fuego | Warner Music | Flamenco with a superb, gritty voice described as a blend of Tina Turner, Lola Flores and Sarah Vaughan. That voice teases its way through the roots and passion of flamenco bringing to it the jazz of Vaughan and on a couple of tracks the funk of Turner to create a subtle new take on the style, great piano too from Ivan Gonzalez Lewis. Excellent. Graham Radley, 07/08 |
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Nobody presents Blank Blue - Western Water Music Vol II | Ubiquity Records | Elvin Estela, aka Nobody returns with his follow up to Western Water Vol I “Pacific Drift”. Nobody is building on his love of psychedelic soft rock layered with heavy bass lines and lively drum beats. The major difference is the addition of Niki Randa on vocals and she definitely adds another dimension not heard on the previous release. “All The Shallow Deep” is a unique fusion of electric guitar and experimental beats complemented by Niki’s lush vocals. “Ignite” is another highlight where the beats are a little more progressive but the tone is dreamy and harmonic. Nobody has created a soft rock gem with a west coast vibe that evokes images of lazy summer days soaking up rays. Fans of “Pacific Drift” will surely enjoy this. Reg Dancy, 06/08 |
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Simbad - Supersonic Revelation | Raw Fusion | There are DJ’s/producers dropping albums everywhere but few can boast to have an album as strong as this one. Simbad’s “Supersonic Revelation has been a couple years in the making but the wait has been well worth it. Simbad has assembled a little bit of funk, house, rnb and dancehall and the result is a soulful uplifting disc that will move your body. The immensely successful “Soul Fever” needs no introduction. This electronic funk track with the wicked synth lines was one of the biggest records of 2006.The legendary Robert Owens adds his signature vocals to the atmospheric “Someone for Me”. There’s also the title track, which has also become a huge hit, and why not? The killer organ riff and Abdul Shyllon’s lush vocals gives this the feel of a simmering downtempo house track that never builds momentum but it's bangin’ nonetheless. There are many other great selections worth mentioning so you owe it to yourself to invest in what is definitely one of the hottest releases of 2008. Reg Dancy, 06/08 |
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Jamie Lidell - Jim | Warp Records | ‘Jim’, Jamie Lidell’s follow up to his hugely successful 2005 set ‘Multiply’ sees him journey further into soul territory. He’s ditched much of the electronics in favour of a full backing band, resulting in a real 60s inspired sound. This is particularly evident on the uplifting cuts ‘Another Day’ and ‘A Little Bit Of Feel Good’, both of which could well see some pop chart action, the Sam Cooke influenced ‘All I Wanna Do’ and ‘Green Light’ which is reminiscent of Al Green. The highlight though is ‘Figured Me Out’, a wonderful 80s electro-boogie styled outing which is destined to be huge on the underground dance floors. Andy Allen, 06/08 |
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The Sunburst Band - Movin’ With The Shakers | Z Records | Joey Negro and the crew return with their 3rd Sunburst Band album and as with ‘Here Comes The Sunburst Band’ and ‘Until The End Of Time’ it’s packed with outstanding disco delights and boogie bombs. It features vocal performances from the likes of Leroy Burgess and Yolanda Wynns but even better are the Pete Simpson fronted cuts such as the outstanding ‘Our Lives Are Shaped’ and a killer version of David Bowie’s ‘Fashion’. Diane Charlemange graces the classy groove ‘Put A Lyric In It’ and the immaculate stepper ‘Movin’ With The Shakers’ which comes off like a Jones Girls track. Other standouts include ‘Turn It Out’ featuring Taka Boom which is reminiscent of early Level 42 material and ‘Dusk’, a clever if somewhat cheeky cut obviously inspired by Maze’s ‘Twilight’. Andy Allen, 06/08 |
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Inverse Cinematics - Passin’ Through | Pulver Records | Although Inverse Cinematics have been providing us with top quality productions and remixes since 2002 surprisingly ‘Passin’ Through’ is their first long player. It’s been well worth the wait though as this is a fantastic collection of new material (other than the inclusion of the anthemic ‘Detroit Jazzin’’) which effortlessly fuses elements of deep house, jazz and hip-hop. ‘Sundrops’, ‘Sambatime’ and ‘Don’t Give Up’ are all heavy hitters in the vein of the aforementioned ‘Detroit Jazzin’’ but not to be overlooked are ‘Interplanetary Motivations’ and the title track, two slow motion chuggers, plus the jazzy hip-hop jam ‘Take It Back To 86’ featuring Jebidiah. Andy Allen, 06/08 |
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