British vocalist Shielah Cuffy demonstrates sharing, loving and giving as she lays down powerful emotion in the form of modern boogie driven by great love-themed songwriting on "Don't Break My Heart". This combination of talented producer and singer proves to be a memorable match as Shielah's soulful delivery expresses pain and love over a joyful and polished sound of Nu Soul by Thomas G. Her 2013 LP "Sharing Loving Giving" demonstrates outstanding talent who are influenced by the essence of 80's R&B and use it's power to great results.
Listen to snippets from the album "Sharing Loving Giving" and purchase it here at First Experience Records. Thomas G remixes a classic by British R&B duo Soul II Soul below.
Veteran DJ/producer K-Def is here to provide treats for the eardrums of beat fanatics and diggers alike in the futuristic production sound of "One Man Band". The Jersey native shows his wizardry in laying down funky grooves and re-creating famed samples with authenticity and a level of detail newly demonstrated by the sole effort of a producer in Hip Hop.
Enjoy a lo-fi audio version of the album ripped straight from cassette to mp3 and head over to Undergroundhiphop to purchase "One Man Band" on CD, cassette or vinyl.
Enjoy this special moment of instrumental music as two Latin musicians get together and lay down a sound of fast-paced Jazz fusion laced with funky bass playing and smoothness on the keys. "Bass and Rhodes" by KaBass and Carab is a dreamy journey of music as these two instruments play off one another to create a vibe of escapism while driven by heavy rhythm to evoke energy and excitement within. Another great jam led by Brazilian bassist KaBas which displays his free-spirited and prolific approach to music.
" Gospel, blues, jazz, r&b, soul, hip-hop—language of the human experience. Ezra Brown’s music speaks this language. His horn serves as his translator, becoming a voice that speaks in tongues transcending any language barrier. Ezra’s sound — a culmination of southern comfort and urban grit, gives birth to a style that is new, yet familiar. This sound speaks from the soul. A sound Ezra calls Soul Muzik. When he picks up his horn, sound is transformed into a language that enters the soul producing an experience that is pure music. An experience that goes beyond sound becoming something that is felt. Music that translates the human experience for all to understand.
Ezra Brown uses his musical style to transform a mere story to a lyrical moment. This style makes him a much sought after force among his contemporaries. As saxophonist, keyboardist,music director, and arranger, he has collaborated with a broad spectrum of industry greats. He has worked with an impressive list of Grammy Award winning artists – Cassandra Wilson, John Forte, Dorothy Moore, Charlie Daniels and Miki Howard. His works also includes Grammy nominated artists – Les Nubians, Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland, Johnnie Taylor, Brass Construction, Wilson Pickett, Gavin DeGraw, Calvin Richardson, Ryan Shaw, Gordon Chambers and Latin artist, CuCu Diamantes. On the world stage Ezra is just as comfortable as he is when he’s at home — evidentin his performance with Italian pop sensation Jenny B. Most recently, he has lent his talents to the albums of two international artists: jazz organist and pianist, Matthias Bubiath and Sony Music represented Japanese pop singer JUJU.
Constantly fine tuning his artistic expression, Ezra is currently involved in several projects. He serves as music director for Blue Nefertiti (one half of the group Les Nubians); as a member ofT he Mighty Embassy Ensemble for up and coming hip-hop artist Blitz the Ambassador.; and as a band member for Cheryl Pepsii Riley at The Village Underground in New York City, the top R & B open mic night in the country. You can hear Ezra on MTVu’s Live Sessions, where he is featured with Blitz the Ambassador and John Forte “Breathe” video on MTVu; ESPN World Cup 2010 playlist Blitz the Ambassador’s “Something To Believe In”; and clothing label LRG presents The Kid Daytona “Lifted” w/ hip hop artist Styles P.
Ezra Brown’s debut solo album makes its release in late January. His promo tour for the album will start in Japan, mid-November." Bio via ezrabrownmusic.wordpress.com
Elis Casado starts off "Crab In The Lamp" on a powerful note with a funky organ-based cover of the "Enter The Dragon" theme to lead you into 6 more tracks of ear candy in the form of Jazz-Funk Fusion. Enjoy this gem of an album from 2010.
The Rampagers are Phill Most Chill, Emskee & Oxygen, along with production from Jorun Bombay. Available as a bonus track on the "DWG Sampler One (A Journey Through The Crates)" vinyl release in 2013 on Diggers With Gratitude. Previously unreleased on any format.
Let the aggressive West Coast Hip Hop sound of BlokMusic penetrate your ear drum as you listen to his thumping club-ready rhythms which feature a sinister gangsta sound. This Polish producer creates dark soundscapes fit for next-generation Cali-bred MCs such as The Game, as you'll hear in his remix of "One Blood". The West still maintains a strong influence in Hip Hop sound and touches the imagination of people on an international level.
Over the statik of Selectah, Ransom drops bars that are official in a confident, thought-provoking and rebellious approach to the mic you can feel on their album "The Proposal". Enjoy a nice balance of beats and rhymes which are likely to stick to your ribs like good food as Statik and Ransom give a strong effort in Hip Hop which is competitive in the classic approach of neats, rhymes and cuts. This MC sounds very determined throughout 10-tracks as he commands the drum in a mission to "give the East Coast it's bars back".
Ill Adrenaline Records & Tragic Allies strike again! Adding onto previous releases: Purpose & Confidence, and 7 G.E.M.S. (Tragedy Khadafi & Tragic Allies), Purpose of Tragic Allies teams up with up-and-coming lyricist and latest Tragic Allies member Paranom to deliver a 19-track, strong boom-bap heater entitled "Life Outside The Frame".
As already the case for the critically acclaimed 7 G.E.M.S. project, Purpose once again handles the entire production on this offering, ranging from rugged uptempo joints ("Interlude To Your Mood") to jazzy, conscious, and mellow vibes ("Dayz Go By" and "Night Gallery"). Being featured only on two tracks, Purpose this time concentrates fully on providing stellar instrumentals that complement Paranom's excellent lyrical, and even cryptic skills. With the ability to fuse different musical influences into a raw, but soulful sound of Hip-Hop, Paranom's aim is to further evolve an ever growing culture into a more balanced art form, one that's rooted in self-empowerment and realization, freedom, and discovery.
"New Italian afro-funk outfit Funky Mama exploded onto the scene in September with single “Ottobre: fuga dalla stazione centrale”, which caught the attention of stations worldwide with airplay that went from Radio Helsinki to Sydney’s much respected 2SER or John Warr’s cult radio show “Afrobase” on Juice fm Brighton. Now the band is now ready to reveal it’s debut self-titled EP out on limited edition vinyl + CD and digital download. “Funky Mama EP” contains 4 original instrumental tracks of explosive afrobeat-inspired grooves served with the typical warmth and rawness that characterizes Southern Italy, where the band members are all originally from.
With a badass horn section accompanied by a super heavy array of percussion, bass and soulful organ/synths, this release is sure to put Funky Mama firmly on the map as one of the most interesting up and coming groups of the developing Italian funk scene. From the uptempo afro-jazz vibes of “Evolution n.1″ to the blaxploitation atmospheres of “Pirro’s Shower”, funk stormer “Ottobre: fuga dalla stazione centrale” or the surprise break of jazz-funk closer “You Can Dance”, this EP is a sizzling blend of infectious afro-funk rhythms imbued with a jazz-dance flavor that can only be described in one way: hot!
The album artwork is curated by Internationally renowned Italian artist Mr. Wany, who also appears in the VIDEO to single “Ottobre: fuga dalla stazione centrale” launched in the Fall to anticipate the release of the EP."
Since 2009, Andrew Kelley has produced & A&R'd several Wu-Tang Projects. The first albums were Wu-Tang's "Chamber Music" & "Legendary Weapons". He then went on to become RZA's A&R at Soul Temple, adding his credit to Rza's Man With The Iron Fists soundtrack & most recently Ghostface Killah's 12 Reasons To Die.
Kelley says "I am fortunate enough to say I have had the opportunity to work with the greatest rap group of all time. Putting together songs & albums that I hope have added to their legacy. I wanted to say thank you to all the Wu Tang fans for your support throughout the years." Some Songs I Made For RZA is exactly that, a collection of Kelley's favorite records from these albums, along with some unreleased remixes & exclusives, expertly mixed by long time collaborator DJ Mekalek
Enjoy the sounds of Robert Glasper Experiment in a Spotify album stream of "Black Radio 2" and a live appearance on KCRW radio where they perform and discuss details behind the making of their star-studded Blue Note Records follow-up.
A very nice moment of pleasant Jazz on the otherwise aggressive-sounding and diverse 2013 Progressive Jazz-Rock album "Utopianisti" by composer/multi-instrumentalist/producer Markus Pajakkala. "The Sundays Of Love and Peace" flows peacefully with a smooth melody of keys which unfolds into entertaining soloing backed by an energetic build of surrounding horns and percussion.
In absorbing the calm vibe of "The Sundays Of Love and Peace", you will most likely be caught by surprise by the sharp contrast of sound in comparison to the other songs on "Utopianisti" as Markus goes nuts in bringing various musical influences, songwriting styles and multiple genres into one project.
Markus Pajakkala - drums, percussion, soprano- tenor & baritone saxophones, flute & alto flute, bass clarinet, mellotron, various ethnic instruments, programming (only in 2, 6 & 13!!), additional keyboards & vibraphone
The Utopianisti Big Band (1, 3, 6, 8):
Tommi Kolunen, Olli "Trumpenator" Helin & Jussi Toivonen - trumpet
Antti Hirvonen, Petri Juutilainen & Ulla Ahonen - trombone
Aulis Pöyhönen - bass trombone
Kasper Haikonen & Masa Orpana - alto sax
Petri Nieminen & Maiju Virtanen - tenor sax
Markus Pajakkala - baritone sax
Recorded at Kangasala, Tampere, Pirkanmaan Musiikkiopisto, Tampereen Konservatorio, Helsinki Music House Studio and JJ Studio during autumn 2012 - autumn 2013.
Utopianisti meets Black Motor & Jon Ballantyne (tracks 9-12 + 13):
Sami Sippola - tenor saxophone
Ville Rauhala - upright bass
Simo Laihonen - drums
Jon Ballantyne - electric & grand piano
Markus Pajakkala - baritone saxophone, bass clarinet, percussion
Recorded live at JJ Studio, Tampere August 2nd, 2012
Composed, written, conducted, engineered & produced by Markus Pajakkala.
Mr. Fastfinger recorded his parts himself in Porvoo.
Mastered by Svante Forsbäck at Chartmakers
Cover art by Sanna Heikka
CD layout by Tero Koskela
As one half of legendary Queens duo Mobb Deep, Havoc has crafted countless hip hop classics, from “Shook Ones Pt. II” to “Drop A Gem On Em” to “Quiet Storm” and many more. The talented emcee/producer launched his solo career with 2007’s The Kush, and has since been producing tracks for an A-list clientele that includes Eminem, 50 Cent, The Game, Nas, and Jadakiss, among many others.
Side A. Life We Chose feat. Prodigy (Mobb Deep Remix)
Side B. Life We Chose feat. Prodigy (Instrumental)
The Delfonics were a soul band in the late ‘60s and ‘70s, known for popularizing the “Philadelphia sound.” Their sleek and smooth style heard on the hits “La-La (Means I Love You),” “Didn’t I (Below Your Mind This Time),” and “Ready or Not Here I Come (Can’t Hide From Love),” among others.
Last night’s “Unsung” chronicled The Delfonics’ rise to fame, and explained how their soulful sound even influenced The Jackson 5.
Press release via thecharlesbradley.com
"Just in time for Black Friday, we are proud to present the premier pugilistic wax battle of the 21st Century. In one corner we have Sir Charles Bradley backed by the Salacious Sorcerers of Soulful-Doom, and undisputed pride of Staten Island - Daptone's beloved heavy metal enthusiasts, The Budos Band. Armed with a soulful, merciless version of Black Sabbath's classic ballad 'Changes' - you'd have a better chance in the ring with a hungry Mike Tyson on speed. In the other corner we have Sir Bradley, this time backed by old school cohorts, the Staten Island mercenaries of Funk, Dirt Rifle and the Bullets (the band responsible for such early Bradley hits as, 'This Love in't big enough For the both Of Us', and 'Now That I'm Gone'). The Bullets come out swinging with ‘Ain't it a Shame.’ In what should be considered the other A-side, this heavy new original tune is filled with the raw energy harnessed on classic Bradley singles, which can only be described as TKO caliber Razzle Dazzle."
Available on Friday, November 29 at participating Record Store Day stores (US only)! Pre-order available now via Juno UK.
"One of the most underrated genius gems in all of soul music is Marvin Gaye’s jazz ballad album, Vulnerable. More then ten years in the making, it is from start to finish a lush, expensive, and utterly sublime venture of layered vocals and pure jazz atmospherics that borrows the best from soul while still staying true to its purist intentions.
Drummer/producer Edwin Briscoe and his gang of merry musicians captures the best of both sides of one of Vulnerable’s best with “I Won’t Cry Anymore” with this delicate opening yielding to a pure soul groove that would have made Leon Ware proud. Singer Erica Nicole applies just the light touch with just enough gospel tinged phrasing to keep it faithful to the material but not strictly by the book. Be on the lookout for this actor/drummer/producer’s future release Edwin Vs. Briscoe. If this is any indication, we’ll be all ears, whoever emerges the winner. It’s all good. "
By L. Michael Gipson of SoulTracks.com
Wordplay is their forte as Yamin Semali, DXA & Too Deep bless the mic for "Priceless / Do It All The Time" 7" by BC & Monowax. As Hip Hop traditionalists in pursuit of the rhyme daily, this collective approach the art and culture with important messages of life that are bound to stick to your ribs like good food backed by sample-based sounds from the drum machine which are reminiscent of the 90's.
Feel the holy spirit of Nathaniel Brunson strikes the soul with the dramatic mood of "Talk Brother". This emotional Jazz composition displays Nathaniel's divine vision as a musician.
Nathaniel's strength is creating songs inspired by a higher power. Enjoy a couple of his religiously-inspired tunes below, both of which showcase his beautiful work on the sax and song arrangements.
From Los Angeles, California by way of Kansas City, Missouri, Carlos Budd Ford is a seasoned vet in the world of music, so naturally, it’s not a surprise that he’d one day rise up and take his rightful position behind the microphone.
Carlos began his career as one of the lead singers in a dynamic band known throughout the Mid-West as “Grand Jury”. After years of local fame, “Grand Jury” gained notoriety throughout the late 80’s. Birthing some of the most talented artists, musicians, and producers in the industry, including but not limited to, Lance Alexander and Tony Tolbert (Members of the Perspective/A&M group “LowKey”, who later went on to produce and discover the award winning singing group “NEXT” as well as multiple acts on Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis’ label “Flyte Tyme), Livio Harris (Who went on to manage several well known artists who included amongst them Adina Howard, and Jon B), Damon Thomas (One half of the one of the hottest musical production teams in the business “The Underdogs”, producers of everyone from Whitney Houston to Justin Timberlake), and Tyrone Hooker (Son of legendary Soul singer Johnny Taylor).
After being signed to major labels Uptown/MCA and Ruffhouse/Columbia respectively, as an integral part of the group “Four Sure” in the mid 90’s, Carlos took the opportunity to learn valuable lessons in both work ethic and perseverance from label mates such as Jodeci, Al B Sure, Heavy D, The Fugees, Teddy Riley and Guy, and Mary J Blige as well as many others, led by top industry executives Sean “Puffy” Combs and Andre Harrell.
Carlos has gained confidence in both his talent and ability to deliver as a solo artist, and has prepared himself for an assault on the industry with his eclectic blend of R&B/Soul with just a touch of Jazz and Hip Hop.
Man Bites Dog Records is proud to present Esoteric & Stu Bangas new video "Ease Up" from their upcoming album "Machete Mode' due out on M.B.D.R. on 11/26/2013. The video was shot by J. Rose, directed and edited by R.M.L. Song is produced by Stu Bangas. Rap Battle host is Celph Titled. Video was filmed in Quakertown, PA with a live audience.
"Not too long ago, you were probably introduced to a new MC named LAW, flanked by Sean Price and Rock aka Heltah Skeltah on their banger, "Deathwish". Fresh out of the lab, LAW, Cali's rising son, has come back to clue you in to what his upcoming album, The Virus, is going to sound like. Calling upon the OG, MC Eiht and the homeys, Crooked I and R-Mean, LAW's second single is another banger for you and yours. This time LAW only needs "One Minute" to let you know he's packing that heat. Over a sonic sound scape provided by S-1 (Kanye's "Power"), this quartet of rhyme slingers leave no witnesses behind. Currently Law is preparing a mixtape with DJ Dub (Jay Electronica, Saigon, CRS) entitled "The Outbreak" to give you a sample of The Virus before it gets exposed to the world."
This is a great new way to enjoy a Hip Hop classic, by kicking back and listening to a set of the original samples mixed by the artist. "Doggystyle" by Snoop Dogg is G-Funk at it's finest during an era where it would influence the direction of The West on a large scale. This album is packed with Funk and Soul gems repurposed into a Hip Hop context by production mastermind Dr. Dre to portray a unique sound of West Coast street cinema. Enjoy a commentary through records by Snoop as you journey into the sounds of "Doggystyle".
El Sindicato push the element of surprise and entertain as they fuse exciting Funk grooves and a touch of Jazz with musical influence from South America for a festive vibe. Enjoy the mixtape sampler above and the Reggae-influenced Latin Funk groove of "Evil Ways" in full below. This song demonstrates El Sindicato's goal in pushing the boundaries of music by forming a melting pot of rhythm and sound which is designed to make you move. Stay tuned for their full-length to drop on New Years Eve 2013!
www.facebook.com/sindicatolatinfunk
Virginia-based band Butcher Brown lay down a mellow groove of lazy afternoon Jazz-Funk to set your mind and soul at ease on "Starlight, Starbright". This group are known for bringing the essence of a jam in each of their online releases with music that entertains with a vibe of carefree spontaneity highlighted by moments of energy in improvisation.
Photo credit: "relax music" by mind warp
"George Anderson bass player with the legendary 80's multi-award winning group Shakatak who's tune 'Nightbirds' was a global phenomenon, finally releases the follow up to his first solo-album 'Positivity' with the fantastic ‘Expressions’. Having composed, produced and engineered the entirety of his first album, George has come back prepared to amaze fans once again with his truly unique style of modern jazz-funk.
George was instrumental in co-writing many of Shakatak's repertoire past and present most famously 'Day by Day' featuring grammy award winner Al Jarraeu. George was also responsible for co-writing the song 'Perfect Smile' which was a smooth-jazz radio play hit in the US for Shakatak in the 90's. The Jill Saward (Shakatak's lead singer) album 'Just for you' with the brilliant Jason Rebello on piano/keyboards was also co-written and produced by George."
More songs from George's "Positivity" album available at the YouTube of Secret Stash Records.
The session team at Impossible Ark present a positive flow of Funk and Soul grooves, featuring an abundance of uplifting moods and messages of life on "Kings and Queens". From female Soul ballads which carry heavy emotion to upbeat Funk numbers all of which feature outstanding performance, this collective bring exciting diversity to express love and life. Impossible Ark presents an album of Funk in Soul which will most likely stand out in quality among the classics you are bound to find in the crates.
"A five-track EP, but a set that also packs the power of most full albums of soul we've heard from the 70s – thanks to a deep level of quality throughout! The material was originally recorded for RCA in 1975, at a time when Robbie Hill's Family Affair were the backing group for The Main Ingredient – and had not only close ties to the group musically, but also got their help in supporting this recording! Vocals are by members of the Hill family, but have this great mix of deep tones and soaring highs that really recalls the more famous trio – but served up here with wickedly funky backings that have got to be some of the heaviest sounds recorded for RCA at the time!
The whole thing feels like a sweet stash of rare indie soul records from the time – the best bits you might find on a Numero label collection, for example – and titles include "Peace Of Mind", "Don't Give Up", "Gotta Get Back", "I'll See You", and "Love Is Waiting For You"." © 1996-2013, Dusty Groove, Inc.
"The second album from the Jazz ExTempore Orchestra - the group was initially formed as a cultural exchange between Croatia and other European countries. It features Andrea Vicari (on piano) from the UK, Elvis Staniç (on guitars and accordion) from Croatia, Rico de Jeer (on bass) from Holland/Indonesia and Hristo Yotsov (on drums) from Bulgaria.
Verbally dumpin' hollows into you, Natural Born Spitters and Reks fire shots of aggression with beats and rhymes as the ammo in portraying the unforgiving nature of the streets on "Til' The World Ends", the second single from their 2013 LP "The Smokefest".
Spotted at Blackout Hip Hop.
Dope Folks digs in the crates for some unreleased material by Toung Zee of New Jersey crew The Outsidaz. Enjoy the stream of each song on the EP above and grab this one quick, it's limited to 300 copies!
dopefolksrecords.com
In times of economic hardship, the strong come out on top by using their inner strength, courage, faith and love to persevere. The Revelations present an outpouring of emotions to express such an individual who remains strong by finding their voice and serenity through music. Groove to the joyful sounds of this Brooklyn band who represent the raw essence of classic soul, funk and blues with a sharp modern edge.
Album Credits:
Rell Gaddis - Lead Vocals
Wes Mingus - Guitar and Vocals
Ben Zwerin - Bass
Gintas Janusonis - Drums, Percussion and Vocals
-with-
Bobby Manuel - Guitar
Charles Hodges - Organ
Lester Snell - Piano and Keyboards
Meah Pace & Halley Hiatt - Background Vocals
-and-
The Royal Horns
Produced by Bob Perry, Lawrence "Boo" Mitchell and The Revelations
Recorded at Royal Studios, Memphis TN
Mixed and Mastered by Arnold Mischkulnig
Queensbridge vet Blaq Poet bangs on your ear drum with hardcore sound in joining an all-star guest lineup of underground rebels to flow over the gutter sounds of Brutal Music on "Blaq Death". Witness the future of dark cinematic Hip Hop as these MCs make a movie where the scene is grim and represents danger.
On "Together We Stand", Daniel Crawford leads the way for a touching musical tribute towards assisting the people of the Philippines and all those touched by the country's recent natural tragedy. Providing sounds for the soul, Daniel's mellow composition sets a tone of reassurance and prosperity to reflect positively upon life along with each of the other talented producers featured on "Tacloban Hope".
This album is fundraising response to what happened after one of the most powerful Typhoons on record hit Tacloban and the people of the Philippines.
Beats for Change has put together a worldwide roster of heavy hitting music producers who have joined forces and put together a jam packed album of unreleased instrumental music.
All proceeds go directly to our partner on this GlobalMedic.ca ("GlobalMedic provides emergency relief to those affected by natural disasters and complex emergencies") They have been on the ground since the disaster hit providing clean drinking water and medical supplies, more info on them here:
www.facebook.com/pages/GlobalMedic/40657997157
and www.globalmedic.ca
With a rush of adrenaline in the form of cinematic Rock music, Stamina paint visions of walking through the darkness towards your deepest fears and emotion to face the "Black Moon". As a calm passage of sound unfolds into aggressive instrumentation and a powerful vocal performance, Stamina take you from a contemplative state of emotion into frantic energy to represent the feeling of having to step out of your comfort zone into inevitable fear. This Rock music is designed to provoke courage and strength within the listener.
Track n.9 from the second Stamina album "Two of a kind", released on October 8th 2010 by Ice Warrior Records.
Check out: www.facebook.com/staminaitalianband
www.myspace.com/staminaband
www.reverbnation.com/stamina
BUY: www.cdbaby.com/cd/stamina1 (DIGITAL FORMAT)
www.cdbaby.com/cd/stamina (PHYSICAL FORMAT)
Jesse Fischer and Sly5thAve let their imagination flow as leaders in a movement of innovative Jazz, a unique sound which can be heard throughout their retro-future approach towards interpreting the Headhunters classic "Watermelon Man". Whether or not your familiar with this tune, Jesse & Sly are here to give you a refreshing sound of music as they incorporate modern elements of Trap rhythm and bass with the cool 70's Jazz-Funk sound of Herbie Hancock and The Headhunters which they recreate beautifully.
Produced, arranged, and orchestrated by Jesse Fischer and Sly5thAve.
Engineered, mixed and mastered by Jesse Fischer at Electrik Indigo Studios, Brooklyn.
Artwork by Jesse Fischer.
MON, DEC 2, 2013: VEIN MELTER (NYC)
A Herbie Hancock tribute celebrating 40 years of Head Hunters.
RSVP: www.facebook.com/events/235226083310516/
Jesse Fischer: rhodes, keyboards, and drum programming
Sylvester Onyejiaka a/k/a Sly5thAve: flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, tenor sax, bari sax
Irwin Hall: soprano sax
Jay Jennings: trumpet
David Cutler: bass
"Watermelon Man" by Herbie Hancock, appears on Takin' Off (1962) and Head Hunters (1973).
jessefischer.com
sly5thave.com
Back Row lend their skill for live instrumentation and arrangement to the sound of Hip Hop for ear-opening moments of fusion on "Volume One". Recorded 2013 in New Orleans, LA at Inner Recess Recording Studio, this album carries a variety of musical influences which when put together sounds futuristic and is carried by the foundation of Hip Hop rhythm, from a Southern Trap bounce to traditional boom-bap.
Contact All Work/No Play: @CongoCircle - NewWorldRebel@gmail.com
released 29 October 2013
Back Row Volume One features Live trumpet played by Chris Cotton, Live electric bass and acoustic guitar played by Nation on the Bass & Live electric guitar and saxophone played by Devin Lawrence. Drums/percussion programmed by Burn&Loot courtesy of AWNP productions.
Mixed and Mastered by Burn&Loot
"It’s only natural for someone to receive a cake on their birthday, and the notorious Wu-Tang Clan are no exception. That’s exactly why Amirah Kassem, who runs the New York baking company Flour Shop, has created a series of mind-blowing cakes to celebrate the group’s 20th birthday.
The collections is called C.R.E.A.M.: Cake Rules Everything Around Me, and features important aspects of the band’s history that Kassem can relate to personally, “each piece was inspired by things that represent Wu-Tang to me,” she told FastCoDesign."
Some of the ideas that made the cut were a golden Killa Beehive cake, a frosted Wu-Tang sword, a Shaolin shadowboxer, and an edible Chinese takeout box that features the Wu Tang Clan logo. You can see some more photographs of the cakes that were taken by Henry Hargreaves in the gallery below.
The exhibition of Cake Rules Everything Around Me opened November 13 at Wallplay (118 Orchard Street). It’s part of a larger multi-media group exhibition at the gallery entitled “Wu-Tang Hybrid Arts” (or “WU HA”), which runs through December 9. “WU HA” will open as a Japanese American National Museum exhibition in September of 2014.
More images from the exhibit and words from the artist can be seen over at fastsodesign.
Check out an Afro-Funk medley of Ol' Dirty Bastard classics by Los Angeles band Liberatodores, one of the coolest covers toward the mighty Wu Tang Clan yet.
Zone out to the international crates of wiggingtons as he presents a collection of dusty grooves from Italy, Bulgaria, The Middle East, USSR, The UK and USA. This eBay dealer lends an ear for finding quality within obscure music, showcasing a variety of rhythms, sounds and moods from various world regions within Funk, Soul, Jazz and Disco. Enjoy the sounds as each artist adds their own cultural perspective to enlighten you toward a new sound of popular styles of music.
"An eye for tailored suits and music with an alternative twist, Ray Harris magically manages to blend dance floor jazz with latin vibes, featuring a touch of funk, soul and distinct influences from the 60’s and 70’s with a unique modern concept. Harris’ individual keyboard style & deep vocals are imprinted on his studio albums and live performances.
'A mix marriage between acoustic elements of music and electric sound with a slight touch of soul jazz from the 70s’ - Rolling Stone
‘Ray Harris sounds like a long lost relic from an undiscovered vault of jazz and freakbeat classics, like a fusion between The Doors & Tito Puente’ - Juno Records
Previous support act to The Godfather of Soul James Brown and funk legends the Average White Band, it has not taken long for this award winning acid jazz supremo to create a dedicated fan base and gain recognition as one of the most innovative emerging music writers and performers to date. Summer 2013, the fourth Ray Harris album ‘The Transition’ is released. Previous record releases worldwide include prestigious labels; Record Kicks (Europe), P-Vine Records & Think Records (Japan) Mr Bongo (UK), Chin Chin Records (Germany) and DeMajors (Indonesia). Such record releases have coincided with extensive touring of Asia and Europe with acclaimed performances at Jakarta International Jazz Festival Indonesia; Penang Island Jazz Festival Malaysia; I-Jazz Festival Holland, The Hague Jazz Festival Holland and touring performances throughout China, Japan, Europe & the UK. Previously featured ‘live in session’ on the BBC; Radio 2 DJ Mark Lamarr, voted Harris’ track ‘One Of A Kind’ in his top 10 tracks of 2009." - Bio by www.mattandphreds.com
"In the '70s radio stations were a powerful force across the whole of the US, and anyone with a transistor radio had access all kinds of music. Live music was another matter altogether, and unless you found yourself in a major city your nights out were limited to what the local talent had to offer. This was especially so with soul and funk acts, as mainstream rock and pop was where the money was.
So for small time Oklahoma soul bands such as husband and wife Charles and Barbara Burton's groups "Messengers Inc" - and later "Burton Inc" - times were tough. However, like many purveyors of soul, tough times were no match for those with determination, persistence and a story to tell. Many artists scraped enough money together to make a 45 or two on their own label; but the Burtons took this to another level - they got themselves organised and released their own full length LPs.
With these two albums we tell the story of the Burtons and their contribution to 1970s Midwest funk and soul. Their dreams and desires, struggles and setbacks are all set out in our extensive liner notes, complete with previously unseen photos of the bands.
But above all here are two albums chock full of good music - Messengers Inc from 1972 with heavy funk & deep soul, Burton Inc from 1976 with soulful disco and boogie, including the rare title track dancefloor favourite 'LA will Make You Pay'."
Sonia Eden is a Singer/Songwriter from Barbados who delights in crafting her own experience of Island Soul. As she blends World, Blues, Folk and Acoustic approaches, Sonia creates a pleasant fantasy for the listener with songs that express love and life in a deeply emotional approach towards songwriting and performance. Groove to the mellow vibe of Sonia as she encourages the appreciation of life and demonstrates how to conquer life's obstacles by using your inner faith and the sound of music.
Making It Happen Foundation (MIHF) and Digital Lungz supports artist, social causes and community based projects through the delivery of digital music releases, fan call to actions and social giving campaigns.
IMPACT "Every Celebrity Has A Cause, What's Yours?,speaks to the shared experiences and passion of music artist to support national and global initiatives. R&B soul singer and 5x Grammy nominated artist Dwele partnered with Black United Fund of Michigan's Drive The Future social giving campaign to support cultural arts and music educational programs nationally.
How can you support?
Text "DRIVETHE FUTURE" to 41444 and donate $5, $10 or $15 and receive a link to download Dwele's new single Drive The Future!
We invite you to record and share your vision of how your driving the future or use the #DRIVETHEFUTURE hashtag on Twitter.
Produced by: Making It Happen Foundation, Digital Lungz and Impact Music Group
3 Ways to support Drive The Future:
1. Text "DRIVETHEFUTURE to 41444 donate and receive a free download of Drive The Future by Dwele.
2. Buy the single on ITunes, Google Play and Amazon MP3.
3. Listen to new single on Soundcloud like and share! Easy as 1,2,3!
Chicago’s Davis Brothers recorded Disco Funk as Davis Import on AVI Records in the late 70s and early 80s.
Their early incarnation ‘Howeefeel’ released just one 7″ on Contempo Records in the U.K. only. Recorded in 1977, People Of The World is a crossover soul masterpiece with a massive open drums funk break.
Making it’s debut on Family Groove Records, this is the first time this song has seen the light of day.
Limited edition of 300 copies on clear vinyl. reserve your copy now here at the Family Groove Big Cartel page.
Treyezz aims to get you on the dance floor with electrified dance grooves which are inspired by a classic sound of 80's Boogie but carry a fresh modern feel of their own. With instrumentals blessed with exciting rhythm and layers of funky synth arrangements which showcase Trey's smooth articulation on keys, this emerging producer injects energy into each of his creations as a leader of revival 80's sound which is futuristic and groovy.
"Here comes the ultimate soundtrack for this winter. Blank & Jones team up with young german jazz sensations Julian & Roman Wasserfuhr to record one of the most outstanding and exciting albums of the year. It’s the perfect fusion of Chill Out/Lounge with the finest Jazz music. It’s the kind of music you want to hear on a sunday morning with a cup of coffee on your couch, watching the rain outside. It’s a warm and mellow masterpiece which focusses on the amazing sound of Julian Wasserfuhr on trumpet and his brother Roman on piano. Classic Blank & Jones compositions like Desire or Mind of The Wonderful shine in these new jazz interpretations and make it easy to chill out and fall in love with this record. The concept was developed over the past 12 months and the team wanted to create this magic atmosphere where time just stands still.
This recording has the potential of a future classic and will stand the test of time for sure. Enjoy this beautiful record over and over again!" - Album review by idee deluxe.
Purchase a digital copy of "Relax Jazzed" here at iTunes or the limited-edition 180 gram vinyl here at Juno UK.
Yahzahrah of The Foreign Exchange lends her smooth vocals and talent for songwriting to add a whole new flavor of female singing to Slum Village's "Cloud 9" instrumental. With a performance on par with the emotion and heavenly sound of Marsha Ambrosius's original feaure, Ms. Purple St. James does her thing.
BBE provides a repress for the break dons! The long awaited new Visioneers Limited Edition 45 produced by Marc Mac of 4hero is here at last on BBE offshoot Omniverse. No messin' here as Visioneers go straight for the funk jugular with two dope versions. On the A-Side a version of The Shadows classic ''Apache'' gets flipped by Visioneers remake of Johnny Pate's B-Boy bomb "Shaft In Africa".
Heavy horns and bongos aplenty - this is just wanted the doctor ordered. It's limited, it's hot, go get it!
Modern Soul vocalist Paul Craver creates sounds of happiness in the form of modern Soul to evoke a an upbeat dance vibe reminiscent of the classic Philadelphia International Records sound. With outstanding vocal chops and production to envision a scene of fun in the summertime, "Hey Girl" is a love song which is bound to put anyone in a good mood.
Sundae Soul Germany releases the 12" single "Pyramid" b/w "Hey Girl" from Paul's 2011 album "The Emperor". Purchase the vinyl here at Juno UK or get your digital download below at iTunes.
Hailing from the South Bronx like the rest of his legendary crew, next-generation D.I.T.C. lyricist Magestic Gage puts his stamp down on each track with a witty flow built for the street corner cypher and booth. As Gage entertains and brings you into his world by bridging a connection between street life and professional recording, witness a new voice who helps to define New York Hip Hop with a competitive sound and connection with powerful allies.
A couple Gauge features, above from D Flow's Paraphernalia mixtape now at DatPiff and below is the D.I.T.C. cypher hosted by Premier.
Favorite Recordings is proud to present this self-titled album by Life Force, an amazing piece of Funk with a twist of Pop, Disco and Blue-Eyed-Soul, now reissued for the first time.
Originally released in 1976 on Strawberry Records and produced by Randy Irwin (The Shirelles, Family Circle, Ecstasy, Passion & Pain,…), Life Force has since become a real target for international vinyl diggers, mostly thanks to its main single called “Slow Dancer”. When Pascal Rioux (founder of Favorite Recordings) found him a mint copy, he quickly realized it had a lot more to offer than just one track and thus started to search for more info.
The first who could provide a few more details about the band and Strawberry was Ron Foster, ex-keyboardist of “Ecstasy, Passion & Pain” and producer of Lee McDonald, which was also reissued by Favorite in the past. He revealed that Strawberry was a sub-division of the famous Roulette Records, sold to EMI/Rhino Records in 1989 by Morris Levy, its controversial owner who was facing many severe legal problems and died few years after.
Thanks to him and a few more research, this underrated collectible is finally reissued in a beautiful deluxe 180g vinyl version housed in an old-school tip-on jacket.
180-gram vinyl LP reissue now available at Juno UK
Get your fix of classic Hip Hop sound with the audio archives of Random Rap Radio who provide an original tape of Run-DMC as guests on Mike Allen Capital Radio. The interview is featured in between a great selection of songs from '87, some popular and others more obscure but all bound to get your head nodding if your an addict of The Golden Era.
Commissioned for the current Alex Echo exhibition "Alchemy", "Waterloo Sunset" is Lack of Afro's take on the classic song by Ray Davies of The Kinks, and has been specially created in tandem with the Alex Echo artwork by the same name, which forms the centrepiece of the exhibition.
"Alchemy" runs at Castle Galleries in Bruton Street, London from Friday 15th November to Sunday 8th December 2013. Alex has also created the cover artwork for the forthcoming Lack of Afro album "Music For Adverts", to be released in early 2014.
Track credits:
Written by Ray Davies
Arranged, mixed & recorded by Adam Gibbons
Produced by Lack of Afro
Piano, Hammond, Rhodes & String Arrangement by George Cooper
Violins by John Pearce
Backing Vocals by Holden Caulfield
Bass, Drums, Saxophones, Rhodes Melody, Glockenspiel & Percussion by Adam Gibbons
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