Asymuth: The Aurora Remixes [Far Out]
For over forty five years, Asymuth has been one of Brazil’s most treasured bands. The trio of Jose Roberto Bertrami, percussionist Ivan Conti and guitarist Alex Malheiros have released over twenty albums. When you have a catalog as deep as Asymuth’s, it’s no surprise that the "Aurora Remixes", a collection of previously unreleased material would attract some of the foremost DJs in the game today. Some of those heavyweights include 4Hero and their superb rework of the title track. "Aurora" is a sublime tune filled with soothing Samba rhythms augmented by Jose Roberto Bertrami’s electric piano. Maddslinky picks up the tempo with the percussive infused house flavored mix of "Ta Nessa Ainda Bicho". Another highlight is "In My Treehouse (We Are The Horsemen Remix)" filled with funky bass licks and keyboard rhythms. The "Aurora Remixes" also includes the original recordings as well so this an essential record for any Asymuth fan and without a doubt will influence newcomers.
S-Tone: Lost and Found [Ishtar]
Four years since the release of "Moon In Libra" S-Tone Inc. return with a marvelous collection of Breaks n Bossa beats. "Lost and Found" is a collection of both new and unreleased material as well as two tasty covers, One of those covers is the Nina Simone classic "I Put A Spell On You". Vocalist Laura Fedele transforms the tune into a down-tempo sultry groover. Fedele also performs on the jazz inspired dance track "Lady Word", one of the new compositions featured here. "Serengeti", a house flavored instrumental tune is another winner that’s highlighted by African vocals, lush keyboard arrangements and Marco Brioschi’s trumpet playing. "Bahia Mon Amour" was originally included on S-Tone’s earlier lp "Sobrenatural" has been reworked into an infectious drum n bass heater. Other remix contributors include Grooveman Spot and Combo Moderna, the latter reworking "Entre O Ceus" which also appeared on "Sobrenatural". There are wide gaps between a S-Tone release but when they sound this good they’re certainly worth the wait.
Lucas Arruda: Sambadi [Favorite Records]
"Sambadi", the debut from guitarist/Keyboardist Lucas Arruda is rich in soul infused jazzy Brazilian rhythms. Lucas initially started out as a guitarist but after seeing a performance by Marcus Valle turned his attention to the Fender Rhodes. The vibrant sound of the Rhodes is used prominently to create warm Brazilian rhythmic compositions. Among the highlights are " Batuque", a funky melodic tune with soulful harmonies. "Alma Nova" is a laid back composition filled with warm synths and luscious melodies. "Carnival" and "Tamba" are also warm sublime treats as well. Inspired by Rio De Janeiro, not far from where Arruda was born, "Sambadi" is an impressive release from one of Brazil’s exciting young talents
Nicola Conte: Viagem 5 [Far Out]
When you think of Nicola Conte you think of Jazz infused Samba and Bossa Nova. There’s plenty of that on "Viagem 5" as he has gone deep into the vaults of Brazil’s treasured sounds of the 60’s. As you might expect this seventeen track is filled with an array of warm and melodic compositions that captures the spirit of Brazil during turbulent times yet still resonate today. For instance there’s a tasty cover of "Vou De Contar" performed here by Quarteto 004. "Quintessencia" is soothing modal Jazz with intoxicating vibraphone rhythms courtesy of Zumba 5. "Se Voce Quiser Mas Sem Bronquear" is filled by with lush strings and the lovely voice of Elizabeth Viana. "Viagem 5" is a journey into a creative period of swinging Brazilian Jazz n Bossa and we can always count on Nicola Conte for shining a light on such a rich collection of timeless music.
Kirk Degiorgio: Sambatek [Far Out]
On "Sambatek" Kirk DeGiorgio blends his signature techno sounds with Brazilian rhythms and a touch of Detroit techno soul certain to whip dance floors into a frenzy Among the highlights are "’Morro da Formiga", and Complexo de Alemao" each filled with dark percussive rhythms and pulsating beats. "Prazeres", filled with seductive cosmic rhythms and "Vidigal" are more house flavored tracks but provide definite satisfaction. If that wasn’t enough there are some tasty remixes from Detroit’s own Rick Wilhite on "Babilinia" and Jonas Kopp on "Borel" just to name a few. By infusing 4/4 beats to these treasured Brazilian compositions, Kirk Degiorgio’s first recording for Far Out is a winner.
Kon: On My Way [BBE]
With his debut, beat maker Kon has produced a collection of soulful dance tracks filled with clever synth arrangements and tasty vocal contributions. It’s clear that Kon has an ear for rhythm and infectious grooves as his compositions effortlessly seep into your body and you’ll find yourself moving instantly. The proof lies in quality tracks like “All Night”, a funky dance tune that features the heavenly vocals of Amy Douglas. In addition she’s also featured on the house inspired “Blow Me….A Kiss”. There are other notable contributors such as Georg Levin hearty vocals on “Don’t cha Wanna” enhanced by Yuki Kanesaki’s keyboard wizardry. “Awe Baby” is a heart pumping string laden funky instrumental. Overall “On My Way” is the perfect antidote to jumpstart your next party. This superb record serves notice that Kon is an artist to keep an eye on.
Al Kent: Disco Love Vol 3 [BBE]
When you hear the name Al Kent, one can only think of rare Disco gems that we’ve completely forgotten or never knew existed. At first I was afraid that Disco Love Vol.3 would be filled with abundance of glossy dance tracks but I was very pleased by the quality of recordings here that are soulfully deep and funky. There are several highlights to nod your head to like the Al Kent edit funky bass grooves of “Mighty Gents”. “Hustle On Down Pt.3” features funky horns and wah wah guitar licks. “Human” by the Neo Experience is reminiscent of a Philly Soul recording. Overall Disco Love Vol. 3 covers all the bases to allow you to step back in time and get your groove on.
Myele Manzanza: One [BBE]
As the drummer for Electric Wire Hustle, fans have been hypnotized by the Futuristic beats and rhythms generated by Myele Manzanza. Now with his solo debut "One", Myele reaches into his roots and various other influences to deliver an authentic blend of soulful beats ranging from African to Future rhythms with amazing results. Among the highlights are "Absent", a hip-hop flavored track with wicked rhythms augmented by Bella Kalolo on vocals. "City Of Atlantis" is another worthy pick that starts out with Philly rapper Charlie K rhyming over a thick beat. At this point the groove shifts with the help of a jazzy flute riff followed by the organic soulful vocals of New Zealand native Ladi 6. "Me I Know Him" is a stomping soulful house track with Sam Manzanza, Myele’s father on Congas and Canadian vocalist Amenta. Myele has paid his dues to hone his craft and "One" displays the fruits of his labor with outstanding results. This is a superb record worthy of repeated listens. You won’t be disappointed.
Simba & Milton Gulli: The Heroes (A Tribute to a Tribe) [BBE]
On "The Heroes" (A Tribute to a Tribe) Simba & Milton Gulli visit the songbook of A Tribe Called Quest. While no doubt a daunting task, they take the wise route by maintaining the core ingredients of the classics while infusing the flavors of their Mozambican heritage. The producer MiltonGulli is well aware of jazz undertones that permeates ATCQ’s music and that is evident throughout, especially on their cover of "Bonita Applebum", where they transform the original into a sublime melodic gem. The same can be said for "Electric Conversation" aided by the jazzy guitar rhythms and harmonic approach displayed throughout. Simba displays a laidback delivery to his rhyming skills that are similar to Q-Tip’s but the comparison ends there. He definitely has his own voice and he holds his own with impressive results. The highlight here arguably is "God Lives Through" (I Love my God) which at first hints as a cover but morphs into a harmonic gospel lullaby that is simply irresistible. Overall Simba & Gulli demonstrate that their talent is primed for the long haul and in the process do justice to the songbook of one of hip-hop’s most treasured groups. Take a trip down memory lane and in the process get introduced to Mozambican soulful hip-hop.
Omar: The Man [Freestyle]
It’s not enough to crown Omar as the King of UK Soul for his unmistakable voice is recognized and cherished worldwide. With his seventh and easily one of his strongest lps entitled “The Man”, his star should shine even brighter. The thirteen track disc hits hard and often with a myriad of musical styles enhanced by edgy grooves and crafty production that we’ve come to expect from him. The first single “The Man” finds Omar singing about his maturation from a young man to family man, highlighted by a tasty bass clarinet and flute melody. “High Heels” is a funky soul jazz tune that features the Hidden Jazz Quartet”. Pino Palladino transforms the 1990 classic “There’s Nothing Like This” into a chilled out mellow gem. The disc wraps up with Latin flavored “Ordinary Day” that is a tribute to the additions of his twin daughters to his family. Overall “The Man” is filled with so many superb tracks that it will be hard to pick a favorite. It will not be hard at all however to recognize this as one of the best records of the year.