Get yourself struck by a smooth criminal in his own right on percussion as Jonathan Sugarfoot Moffett revisits the classic Michael Jackson smash “Smooth Criminal”. This rhythm assassin proves to be dangerous as he uses the kick, snare, hi hat and cymbal to get the crowd moving. For the 30th anniversary of the songs release, Jon paYa a fine h9mage to his late friend and musical collaborator.
You had to be there to witness the vibe and magic of the early-90's as Hip Hop & R&B merged to create a historic sound, classic albums and party atmosphere. One of those groups who left their imprint upon this great period of music with soulful vocals backed by funky breakbeat-driven grooves is the group known as Portrait. In '92 the quartet lit up the airwaves with "Here We Go Again", a great jam with an unforgettable chorus, Humpty Dance groove and Chuck D-sampled vocals.
In 2018, Portrait speak with Soulinterviews.com to let you know what they've been up to since, including their smooth new single "In The Moment".
Download/Stream: Portrait - 2018 Interview with DJ Soulswede
Playlist:
01 – Portrait – Honey Dip (Portrait, 1992)
02 – Portrait – Precious Moments (Portrait, 1992)
03 – Portrait – All That Matters (All That Matters, 1994)
04 – Portrait – In The Moment (Single, 2018)
05 – Portrait – Heartstrings (All That Matters, 1994)
Background music during the interview:
Portrait – In The Moment, Portrait – On And On, Portrait – Down Wit Dat, Chuckii Booker – Games, Portrait – Share My Love, Portrait – Leavin’ Today
Shakin' the ground with the boom and the pound is the funky sound of a trio who's known to astound. Backed by the high-paced Funk groove of PVD, the lively unit of Kiss The Sky consists of an MC, musician and vocalist who are bound to make you see the fusion of Hip Hop, Funk and Soul in an exciting new light.
Taken off Kiss The Sky's limited edition "Sugar Pie" b/w "Glory" 7" vinyl, available here at Juno Records.
The blissful sounds of these two musical minds is bound to make you feel some kinda way as Drew Kid & Deborah Bond deliver good vibes. Known for blessing numerous bands with her beautiful voice, Deborah Bond continues to promote progressive Soul in another memorable collaboration. With musician Drew Kid, Deb's remarkable tone flows along a soothing groove for pure Neo-Soul pleasure.
From Drew Kid's Spring 2018 album "For You, For Me Too" now streaming in full at Soundcloud.
Archivist Fred Bunzl was former hon. gen. secretary of the Campaign For Independent Broadcasting and continues the legacy of this archive at his own Mixcloud page. This collection of gems from the 60's and 70's includes a rare recording of Beatles co-founder John Lennon as a guest radio DJ. Also, you get a look into a movement by US and UK radio to restore Soul music to the airwaves during the early 70's.
Enjoy more radio recordings here and at Fred's Mixcloud:
http://www.campaignforindependentbroadcasting.co.uk/radio-station-archive/
Witness the definition of a lyrical badass as microphone murderers Lyrical Underworld kick more shit than a karate flick for the year of '93. Out to prove Philly's worth in Hip Hop, this rare single showcases a remarkable level of rhyme skills driven by the group's competitive edge and aggression.
As one of the most promising underground Hip Hop shows to date, The Bankai Fam get off to a great start as they welcome fellow Brooklynite Easy Mo Bee. Never one to shy away from getting busy on the radio airwaves, the veteran DJ/producer shows he's sharp as ever on this 2018 episode of The Bankai hour.
The late 90's/early 2000 era of output by DJ Spinna is filled with neck-snapping gems that feature his unique sample-flipping ability and soulful touch. This great intrumental release by Spinna from US vinyl dealer Tokeowave, now available here at Discogs on rare white label 12" is definitely one of them.
"Instrumental soul, nujazz, Latin and funk blended with organic drum and bass, house and downtempo grooves. The dance floor influence can’t be denied- but listening is just fine."
Maurice "Mo" Egeston- Piano, Rhodes, Synthesizers
Duane "Jingo" Williams- Percussion
Eric "Snoopy" Tyler- Bass
Grover Stewart Jr.- Drums
Composed and Produced by Mo Egeston
Recorded, Mixed and Mastered by J. McEntire @ Sawhorse Studios in St. Louis, MO
Photography by Peter Z Jones
www.moegeston.com
Love is forever in the music of J3PO who gets the heart racing with an enduring message and the magical sound of "Waiting For You". Fast-paced and with energy that's sure to put a bounce into your step like the feeling of reuniting with a loved one, this jam parallels the rush when we get butterflies. In the vein of Herbie Hancock, J3PO gets open on keys and talkbox with Jazz Fusion to bring about vibes of love and happiness.
J3PO - Waiting For You
From the album "Memory EP" out now.
Recorded at Riro Musik in Brooklyn, NY, June 2017.
Written and Produced by Julian Pollack.
Personnel:
Julian Pollack - talkbox, Prophet-6
Cale Hawkins - rhodes, keys
Justin Goldner - bass, synth bass
Adam Jackson - drums, SPDSX
Recorded by Rozhan Razman
Mixed and Mastered by Julian Pollack at Bridge & Water Productions, Brooklyn, NY.
Filmed by Simon C.F. Yu
Color by Simon C.F. Yu
Edited and cut by Julian Pollack
2nd Camera operator: Nikki Birch
For Record Store Day 2018, Daptone Records offer a soulful treat from their catalog on limited-edition wax. Lounge to the laid-back and joyful arrangements of The Dap Kings as they lay the musical foundation for vocal duo Saun & Starr on a special instrumental edition of "Look Closer".
If you act fast enough, you may still be able to score a copy of this vinyl! Available 1 per customer here at Juno Records.
Let the joy, spirit and heritage of Africa bless your soul in the sounds of Miriam Makeba. This one from 1970 happens to be one of the funkiest and soulful of her catalog, and carries a tone that's similar to David Axelrod productions. Although he wouldn't work with Makeba 'til '74 as a string arranger on "A Promise", this album carries the funky fusion and emotion that David is known for. Put that distinct sound together with joyful African musical influences and you get the beautiful journey that is "Keep Me In Mind".
Enjoy the album and head over to Bandcamp or Spotify to stream more of Miriam's albums.
Lose yourself and let an outstanding band take control as The Nightowls' power and range of emotion creates a slow jam to remember. Hailing from Austin Texas, The Nightowls make every minute and second of the heart profound with a stand-out song from their 2018 LP "We Are The Nightowls".
The E Double digs back into his classic catalog of beats to create a compilation that is sure to make fans of classic Hip Hop rejoice. Enjoy some of Erick Sermon's most memorable beats produced for various artists during the 90's on "The Funk Lord Instrumentals".
A bonafide collectors item of R&B/Soul shows up on test press vinyl in Anita Baker's 1988 LP "Giving You The Best That I Got". As an additional treat that your certain to remember, singer Malene Mortensen lends her lovely voice to a new Jazz arrangement of the LP's title track. Good love endures through the sound of timeless music pressed on rare vinyl and an oustanding cover version.
Anita Baker's "Giving You The Best That I Got" LP Test Press available here at Discogs.
If you need any evidence to show that the early 90's remain one of the most violently-explicit eras of Hip Hop to date, Criminal Nation state their case. This gun-packing crew of maniacs come strapped for the year of 1990, turning the booth into a war zone. Skilled with an ability to put you in the footsteps of danger, enjoy the thrill of Hip Hop hitmen who carry endless rounds of heavy ammunition.
Take your pick of gems offered by one tape and vinyl dealer by the name of alreadydoug718 who digs in the crates for promo items from The Golden Era. The rare Tommy Boy Records 1989 "Fat Cassette" is a promo compilation of classic material by De La Soul, Phase-N-Rhythm, Stetsasonic, Freshco and more. Jeru's excellent sophomore LP comes in a white sleeve with sticker as a 2xLP vinyl collectable pressing. Plus much more here at Doug's eBay listings page.
On The Rob Franken Electrification, 678 Records present the first in a 6 LP series of music by Dutch fender rhodes pioneer Rob Franken. Carefully selected out of 100’s of tapes recorded between 1974 and 1979, this project features funky tunes composed by Rob. Get a taste of nostalgia in a collection of music designed to be played at airports, shopping centres, elevators and hotels in Europe during the 70's.
541 beats, fills and breaks comprise the Nate Smith collection for a rich source of percussion sounds and performance for producers to draw from. This talented musician who has played for everyone from MJ to Mark De Clive-Lowe and Jose James drops it heavy on a set of drum sample packs for The Loop Loft. Enjoy the punchy and pristine sound that Nate brings as his drum breaks hit hard, recorded from a vintage Neve 8058 console to all digital formats.
Join one of the world's greatest drummers as he and friends use the Funk as a vehicle to fly high above suffering and pain. Opening with a massive breakbeat, "Elevate" marks 50 years of hitting the skins for Pretty Purdie as he embarks on another funky mission with his friends.
The full-length album "Cool Down" by Bernard Purdie & Friends, now available on vinyl.
When the shit goes down ya betta be ready in 2018 as Cypress Hill drop a special project for Record Store Day. This limited-edition release of remixes from "Black Sunday" celebrates 25 years since the release of their hit 2nd LP.
Get your copy here at Juno Records, on Discogs, or at Rough Trade.
Tracklist
Insane In The Brain (Extended Version) 4:51
When The Ship Goes Down (Diamond D Remix) 2:56
Hits From The Bong (T. Ray's Mix) 4:24
Lick A Shot (Baka Boyz Main Remix) 3:31
Scooby Doo 3:39
When The Sh** Goes Down (Extended Version) 4:12
"This week’s guest is the Grammy-nominated music producer and performer Nicolay. As one half of the music project The Foreign Exchange with Phonte and co-founder/co-owner of the record label of the same name, Nicolay has been able to foster a music career as an independent artist for well over a decade now. During our interview, we talked about what it takes to be an independent artist when the music industry is always changing. We also talked about the unique community that The Foreign Exchange has been able to create, especially at their live shows (you host K-Fresh has regularly been their opening DJ for their Detroit show). We also get into the making for Nicolay’s newest solo project Graciers with the North Carolina-based band The Hot At Nights, which is available now."
Follow Nicolay:
Facebook: facebook.com/nicolaymusic
Twitter: twitter.com/nicolaymusic
Instagram: instagram.com/nicolaymusic
Soundcloud: @nicolay-rook
The Foreign Exchange Music: www.theforeignexchangemusic.com
The Foreign Exchange Soundcloud: @theforeignexchangemusic
There's nothing like good Soul music to help you approach life's difficulties with a smile and optimism. In the year 1971, David Peoples joins Eddie Levert of The O'Jays on this upbeat and joyful tune which remains a highly sought-after 45 RPM. Sweep up your mess to the sounds of "Got To Get My Broom Out", a song that is sure to remove your disappointment in the face of the biggest mess.
The original 45 single goes for over $200 here at Discogs, but you can get this great tune on the Numero Group compilation "Eccentric Soul: The Saru Label".
Peep the game plan of this great Hip Hop song as UTFO get the beat thumping to take you on a trip of chasing after a female who is #1 around the way. The 1984 classic "Roxanne, Roxanne" by UTFO, now available as a test press 12" with instrumentals courtesy of Discogs.
An unmistakably easy-breezy late 70's Jazz-Funk album that's sure to brighten your day! Having worked with the legendary Oscar Peterson, musical directed for Janis Joplin, toured with Martha Reeves, The Pointer Sisters and more, pianist Bill King opens his vaults for a funky ride on "The Atlanta Sessions 1978 -1979".
From Marcos Valle and Antonio Carlos Jobim to Ed Motta, pretovelho drops a 600+ collection of Latin music on vinyl for your collection. Includes Brazilian, Samba, Funk, Soul and more. Enjoy digging here at pretovelho's eBay page!
Out to get it while the gettin' is good, NYC lyricist RJ PAYNE projects the hunger of a talented up and comer in the form of fire rhyme delivery. Known for airing out lyrics in the whip on IG, RJ shows off like it's Easter in the entertaining punchline tradition of New York MCing. No mumble rap, just wordplay so enjoy the next generation of serious spitters!
Dropping street poetry for the early 90's, E. Nyce & Kool Krush represent intellectual superiority and are "Highly Untouchable". Poetry is the language of imagination as this Pittsburgh PA crew wreck the mic with a degree of intelligence that's seemingly effortless. Being that they are one of many groups that were obscure but dope, this 2-song project proves once again that The Golden Era of Hip Hop contains numerous gems.
"Highly Untouchable" by E. Nyce & Kool Krush now available on 12" and cassette here at Discogs.
This soulful singer/producer uses music to show you how to give your love once again for 2018. Catch up with Georgia Anne Muldrow & Dudley Perkins as they visit African radio show The B-Side. For 2017 & 2018, Georgia lends her unique songwriting to the progressive Soul music of Nosizwe and Moullinex.
AKUA NARU & Eric Benét deliver hope and praise in a fusion of Hip Hop and Soul on "Made It". As a reflection of triumph over struggle, the singer and MC show you how to dance in the rain. The music video portrays an inspiring moment of humanity and reflection of African heritage. Buy THE SINGLE /Pre-Order The Album "The Blackest Joy' https://akuanaru.lnk.to/TheBlackestJoy
The joy which sunshine brings is expressed in the form of raw Funk as Scacy Sound Service get down in '72 with "Sunshine". This gritty sound full of grunts, soulful singing and smooth horn arrangements is bonafide party music in the vein of funky groups of the time such as Kool & The Gang and New Birth.
Get the Spring 2018 reissue of this rare groove on 45 here at Amazon or Juno Records.
Hailing from the borough known for hustlers and the paper chase, Halftime's hunger and flamboyance on the mic is indicative of the Harlem spirit. Listen as this emerging lyricist shows his gift for words in a showcase of memorable punchlines and wit on "Gettin' Paper". Within just a couple minutes of this flip of a Biz Markie classic and his Gram video below, Halftime is sure to ignite your love for Hip Hop.
The Verse Of The Month is a series of short, one-verse, "remixes", that are issued monthly by lyrical chef Stephen the Levite. Let's hope he cooks up more of this great food for the Hip Hop soul because the kid is nice on the mic!
"A journey of finding inner-strength and self-love, told through a sweet soprano voice over lush 70's-inspired arrangements.
"It's late summer. I feel smooth stones on the soles of my feet and a cool mist on my skin. I slide my toes into the fresh water of Wli Falls and swim towards the raging cascade.
Six months later I wrote this song, "Pisces."
That was in 2011. Years later and every word still feels raw & true...
I've swam in waterfalls that stung my back
All I ever wanted was to go back
Cause even things that hurt make you feel alive
And all I ever wanted was to live before I die."" - Cecily
Enjoy the beautiful Deniece Williams-inspired tone of Cecily and get ready for her project to drop in May 2018. For "Songs of Love & Freedom", she joins leading progressive Soul artists such as Columbia Nights, AB and Diggs Duke.
With a very vivid memory and a passion for life, DJ Premier inspires as someone who lives for the moment. In this revisit of Gangstarr's classic LP "Moment Of Truth", the super producer shows how a series of events and choices result in something memorable. Even though we're not Preemo, we're all capable of creating our own great moments. Hopefully you'll gain inspiration to do so in your own life as you journey back with him and discover how enthusiastic he remains about each memory of this Hip Hop masterpiece.
"Napoleon Da Legend comes back with a third installment
to the “Steal This Mixtape” series, which evokes themes of Hip-Hop counter-culture.
This one features reggae / dancehall artist Daddie Notch (Bankai Fam)
and emcees Nejma Nefertiti and Jise One (Arsonists).
NDL shares personal stories and social commentary over productions from Illmind, Frank Dukes, Jake One, Madlib, Jaylib, Party Supplies"
Somebody better tell this M.O.P. affiliate to hurry up and drop an album fully-produced by D.R. Period and DJ Premier! Teflon makes a return to Hip Hop with a drop by No Ideas Original Radio in 2018.Enjoy the interview in-between a celebration of mostly 90's Hip Hop spun by DJ EnYouTee.
1. Method Man - Tical
2. Fat Joe - Fat Joe's In Town (ft Doo Wop)
3. Rakim - How I Get Down
4. Ghostface Killah - Fish (ft Raekwon, Cappadonna)
5. Gang Starr - Above The Clouds (ft Inspectah Deck)
6. Smif-n-Wessun - Sound Boy Bureill
7. Artifacts - The Ultimate (Showbiz Remix)
8. Busta Rhymes - Keep It Movin' (ft L.O.N.S.)
9. Mobb Deep - Start Of Your Ending
10. Kool G Rap - Tekilla Sunrise
11. Inspectah Deck - Hyperdermix
12. Big L - M.V.P.
13. AZ - The Birth (ft Rza)
14. Cormega - Testament
15. Big Noyd - Episodes Of A Hustla
16. Gza - 4th Chamber (ft Rza, Ghostface Killah, Killah Priest)
17. Organized Konfusion - Invetro
18. Rampage - Wild 4 Da Night (ft Busta Rhymes)
19. O.C. - Time's Up
20. Raekwon - Sneakers
21. Fugees - Cowboys (ft The Outsidaz, John Forte)
22. Nas - The World Is Yours Remix
23. Black Star - Redefinition
24. DMX - Niggaz Done Started Somethin' (ft The L.O.X., Mase)
25. Canibus - How We Roll
26. Teflon & DJ Premier - 4 The Love
27. Das EFX - No Doubt (ft M.O.P., Teflon)
28. Teflon - Nigga Whut
29. Teflon - Comin At Cha
30. EZD - Gunz Iz 4 (ft Teflon)
31. Teflon - Suicide
32. M.O.P. - Firing Squad (ft Teflon)
33. AZ - Mo Money Mo Murder (ft Nas)
34. Nine - Redrum Remix
35. Jay Z - Can I Live
36. Smoothe Da Hustler - Fuck Whatcha Heard (ft Trigger The Gambler)
37. Kamakazee - On The Real (ft Nas, Cormega)
38. Fat Joe - Respect Mine (ft Raekwon)
39. Fugees - Zealots
40. The Beatnuts - Cocotaso (ft Tony Touch)
41. 2Pac - Hail Mary (ft The Outlawz)
42. Cypress Hill - I Wanna Get High
43. O.C. - Jewelz
44. Kool G Rap - Take Em To War (ft MF Grimm, B-1)
45. Show & A.G. - Got The Flava (ft Ghetto Dwellas, Method Man)
46. Capone-n-Noreaga - Channel 10
47. Royal Flush - Worldwide
48. Method Man - The Riddler
49. Onyx - Black Dust
50. Big Pun - Parental Discretion (ft Busta)
51. Redman - Slide and Rock On
52. Jay z, Beanie Segal, Memphis Bleek - Crew Love 98
53. Kool G Rap - Home Sweet Funeral Home (ft Jinx Da Juvy, Papoose)
54. Rza - Tragedy
55. Cru - Hiatus Remix (ft Diamond D)
56. Group Home - Forgive My Sins
57. Snoop Dogg - For All My Niggaz & Bitches (ft Tha Dogg Pound, Lady Of Rage)
58. Onyx - Throw Ya Gunz
59. Channel Live - Mad Izm (ft KRS-One)
60. Mobb Deep - Still Shinin'
61. Sunz Of Man - Tribulations
62. The Notorious B.I.G. - Gimme The Loot
63. EPMD - K.I.M. (ft Redman, Keith Murray)
64. Black Moon - Nigguz Talk Shit
65. Heltah Skeltah - Leflaur Leflah Eshkoshka (ft O.G.C.)
66. O.D.B. - Snakes (ft Killah Priest, Rza, Masta Killa, 12 O'Clock)
67. A Tribe Called Quest - Jazz (We've Got)
68. KRS-One - Free Mumia (ft Channel Live)
69. The Notorious B.I.G. - Long Kiss Goodnight
The menacing voice you heard on Dr. Dre's classic LP "The Chronic" joins host Soren Baker of Unique Access for a special occassion. The two discuss one of the most cinematic accounts of social commentary in Hip Hop to date with a look back at Ice Cube's "Death Certificate". From the skits, rhymes, production and humor, Cube & Da Lench Mob proved music to be as dangerous and impactuful as a weapon by challenging both Amerikkka and his then-rivals N.W.A.
For an extremely visual and authentic depiction of the ghetto, it doesn't get much better than this. "Death Certificate" places you in the shoes of rebel to society as Ice Cube approaches the mic with a signature scowl, sharp tongue and remarkable storytelling ability.
Help yourself to some tasty treats made in honor of J Dilla, cooked up by a diverse and prolific flutist and a talented graphic designer. Jef Kerns blows delightful melodies to the soulful bounce of Dilla's "So Far To Go" while designer/art director angel b lee designs special event packaging for Jason Markk's 10th anniversary celebration of Donuts. More pics here at angel's portfolio.
Although this episode was recorded years ago, Opolopo and AMALIA's sound still remains fresh, innovative and funky. Catch up with one of the grooviest artist of the new millennium in the future Funk of producer Opolopo and singer AMALIA as they visit Motherfunk Radio back in 2012. The sounds of each artist blend in perfectly with classics of years past as the show blend the tunes of Opolopo and AMALIA with jams by S.O.S. Band, Janet Jackson and more.
Enjoy the classic sound of the Moog & Rhodes keyboards backed by a talented musician who shows his appreciation for each by adding new flavor upon timeless Funk & Soul tunes. Roy Ayers "Don't Stop The Feeling" and The Gap Band's "Outstanding" get funkier, thanks to the arrangements of this synth-based singer and producer.
The MC who wrote Busy Is My Best Friend returns with another song to inspire the go-getter in you. Backed by the bounce of trumpeter Lee Hogan, Slient Knight gets on the mic and lends his inner strength to the "Hustler's Anthem Remix". A perfect blend of beats, rhymes, scratching and instrumentation to make you bounce, courtesy of this talented group of indivuduals from the tri-state area. Enjoy more flavor from Hogan below in his cover of the De La classic "Stakes Is High".
Lee Hogans- Producer/Trumpet/Arranger
Silent Knight- Vocals
Anton Harris-Tenor Saxophone
Anja-Christin Nielsen-Trumpet
Lars Espen Rath Vestad-Trombone
Jesse Fisher-Keys
Misha Josephs-Guitar
Kellen Harrison-Bass
Scratching-DJ C Reality
Brighter days are soon to come with the smooth sounds of singer/pianist Jarrod Lawson and guitarist Chance Hayden who evoke the inspiration of a classic Donny Hathaway tune. From Chance's "Get Somethin'" LP which is set to drop in May of 2018.
Chance Hayden • Guitar
Michael Elson • Keyboards, Acoustic Piano
Damian Erskine • Bass
Michael Raynor • Drums, Aux. Percussion
Jans Ingber • Congas, Aux. Percussion (tracks 1 & 6)
Steve Swatkins • Synthesizer (track 1)
John Nastos • Alto, Tenor & Baritone Saxophone (tracks 2, 3 & 6)
Farnell Newton • Trumpet (tracks 3 & 6)
Jarrod Lawson • Vocals, Acoustic Piano (track 10)
Produced by Chance Hayden
Recorded & Mixed by Bob Stark at Sonic Media Studios
Mastered by Nick Moon at Tone Proper Mastering
Art & Layout by JP Downer at motorobot creative Photography by Reed Ricker
Videography by Cypress Jones
ghostinmpc keep it nostalgic and creative by bringing you fresh designs of classic pro-audio gear. For 2018, the hardware engineering company fuse E-MU and Akai designs once again in this beautiful MPC/SP hybrid. Below, producer Rob Viktum shows off his custom wood panels for the 2000XL made by ghostinmpc.
You can catch some of ghostinmpc's custom drum machine designs on eBay every now and then. Hit the link below to see what's in stock!
You can count on Library Funk fanatic SONOR Music Editions to go all out in reviving lost gems of the genre in 2018 and beyond. Head over to I MARC 4's Spotify page and get your mind blown by the outstanding catalog of this band, newly-remastered and digitized.
"In partnership with the French National Audiovisual Institute (INA), Funk in France: From Paris to Antibes (1969-1970) is the first official, previously unissued live recordings of legendary guitarist Grant Green in over a decade. This deluxe 3LP set brings together a collection of recordings of Green captured at the ORTF studios in Paris on October 26, 1969 with bassist Larry Ridley and drummer Don Lamond, also including jazz guitar legend Barney Kessel comping behind Green on the beautiful “I Wish You Love;” plus full concert recordings from June 18 and 20, 1970 at the Antibes Jazz Festival featuring saxophonist Claude Bartee and organist Clarence Palmer, who both played on Green’s classic 1969 Blue Note album Carryin’ On, and drummer Billy Wilson.
The ORTF studio session was taped for a radio broadcast produced by legendary French producer André Francis, and the Antibes recording was taped less than a month before Green’s first live release Alive! on Blue Note Records. Both performances showcase Green’s early transition to a heavier, funkier sound as he entered the 1970s. This is the first time any of these songs from the Carryin’ On and Iron City albums are being made available as live performances, and represent his earliest live recording as a leader.
Available exclusively for Record Store Day on April 21, 2018, the hand-numbered, limited-edition of 2,000 3LP gatefold are mastered at the legendary Bernie Grundman Mastering Studios and pressed on 180-gram vinyl at 33 1/3 RPM by Record Technology Inc. (RTI)"
"When Ruff Draft saw its initial release in 2003, J Dilla possessed production skills on par with anyone in hip-hop technically and creatively. At the top of his game, says longtime friend and collaborator, Karriem Riggins. After years of building while modestly deferring to others of both greater and lesser notoriety, Dilla finally completed the first solo endeavor on his own label, entirely on his own terms.
Prior to recording the EP, Dilla found himself at a crossroads. Estranged from his label, MCA, and separated from the mother of his youngest daughter, frustration abounded both personally and professionally. Dilla spent parts of 2002 and 2003 working on an album for MCA that featured his rapping over contributions from other producers with whom he had connected and whose music he respected. At the time, he was known primarily for his beats, yet reviled for his MCing by most anyone not from his hometown of Detroit. The project was to be an intentional freak of the industry.
The project would go on to spur his collaborative album with Madlib, Jaylib, and would first showcase the template that he would take to his greatest heights with 2006 s Donuts. The Stones Throw reissue of Ruff Draft from 2008 featured remixes of the songs from the album, done without Dilla s involvement. This version of the album takes Dilla s recently discovered mixes of the album and restores his vision for the project. Straight from the mothafuckin cassette, as he phrased the sound he was going for on the EP s intro. The CD issue is buttressed by unreleased tracks and includes the music from the EP as it was originally released, the alternate version that Dilla had for the project and complete instrumentals. Author Ronnie Reese expands upon his original liner notes to further tell Dilla s story, in a booklet complete with never before published photographs from the Ruff Draft photo session.
This CD issue features first Dilla s original sequence of the EP and then presents Dilla's alternate sequence, with tracks unreleased in 2003, as well as instrumentals. Author Ronnie Reese expansively details Dilla s trajectory at this crucial point in his career, in a booklet complete with never before published photographs from the Ruff Draft photo session.
Ruff Draft, like The Diary, sees release on the Pay Jay, the official imprint of the Estate of James Yancey, founded on behalf of Maureen Ma Dukes Yancey, John Illa J Yancey, Monica and Ty-monae Whitlow, Joylette Hunter and Ja mya Yancey."
The talented singers of Naturally 7 are "Cool Like Dat" for 2018 as they harmonize a classic tune by Hip Hop group Digable Planets. Feel the joy of a talented unit who love to sing as they stroll the streets of New York and fill the city with jazzy vibes. WIth outstanding showmanship and vocal arrangements. the 7 man band make this 1993 song their own using their voices as each instrument a capella style.
The 25th anniversary colored vinyl repress of Digable Planets' "Reachin", now available at Amazon.
Another previously unreleased Dilla gem sees the light of day, thanks to Donte and the James Dewitt Yancey Foundation, "Bag U Up" takes inspiration from the Blackstreet classic "No Diggety" and tells a story about how fellas admire the ladies to the soulful production of J Dilla. Joined by Donte are the sweet voices of ItsKValentine and Aiyo who bring a welcome female presence to this joyful tune.
From one of Hip Hop's best soundtrack albums to date, Pete Rock & The Lost Boys hit the skinz back in '96 on the safe sex anthem "The Yearn". For die-hard vinyl collectors, Discogs present a rare test press on vinyl from New York's Sterling Sound.
Get the test press here at Discogs
In 2018, Pete Rock and Planet Asia announce the exciting collaboration "Planet Rock". If your a fan like me since the days when he dropped songs like "Pure Coke", this should be a project to anticipate.
Here to turn your soul inside out with the beauty of music is Eska. On Inside Out", she takes an 1982 Boogie classic and projects it's beauty in a whole new light. Feel the rush as this band get inspired by the soul searching approach Odyssey took on songwriting and amplify it's energy considerably. Built to uplift and inspire your inner being, Eska's "Inside Out" shines not just as a cover but it's own unique composition. This jam receives a whole new vision as Eska infuse elements of Folk, African rhythm and Jazz for a wonderful moment of fusion. Fingers crossed that a studio-recorded version of this gets released sometime!
Filled with love and joined by stellar vocal talent, Choirs With A Purpose stand together with Incognito's Tony Momrelle, the legendary Alexander O'Neal and more singers on their 2017 LP. Enjoy as a Stevie Wonder-influenced Brit Soul man and choir show admiration to a classic tune about the endurance of love.
Delve deep into the art, science and history of DJing as The Funktion House dedicates hours of interviews with a who's who of the DJ world. These are just a few of my personal favorites from their show but you can check out much more talks over at their YouTube channel.
Over at reissue label More Repress, enjoy the sounds of music lovers who get their fingers dusty with a selection of rare grooves. From the mellow '79 Soul of General Lee & The Space Army Band to upbeat 80's Boogie by Jeff Floyd, More Repress have groovy gems in store.
Rare reissued records are always good news for most of wax collectors and records spinners around the globe. This website has been created to inform diggers about repressed and reissued records in order to support the artists, the labels, and the people involved in this industry instead of greedy discogs sellers.
www.morerepress.com
Revisit Common Sense's witty pop culture-filled punchlines back on his debut album with the 12" single of "Charms Alarm". Set to be released by Black Pegasus Records on limited-edition yellow vinyl, Com brings flavor with an unreleased version of the song and freestyle with his crew.
With experience comes great wealth as demonstrated by the gifts given back to us in beats, rhymes and interviews by D.I.T.C. Nod your head to the return of Showbiz & A.G. who reflect on what's important in life and prepare for the release of their upcoming project "A Room Therapy 2". Buckwild and !llmind share likeminded views of business and beats while offering guidance for upcoming producers on a sit-down at BlapChat podcast.
Four Flies Records compile open air grooves, daytime breaks, sunny and scat beats from Italian untapped film music archives from 1969-1978. Grab the 180 gram LP + CD Bonus here at Amazon, only 500 pressings available worldwide.
The collection of Italian composers you'll hear this in the excerpts above:
- Silvano D'Auria - RAFFICA (LA MANO LUNGA DEL PADRINO) - 1972
- Gianni Oddi - MONDO DI NOTTE OGGI - 1976
- Gianni Marchetti - DISPOSTA A TUTTO - 1977
- Alberto Baldan Bembo - GIDEON - 1973
- Sandro Brugnolini, Giorgio Carnini - VERSO LA DROGA - 1971
- Carlo Pes - UN UOMO DALLA PELLE DURA - 1971
- Stelvio Cipriani - POLIZIOTTO SENZA PAURA - 1978
- Bruno Lauzi - UN POSTO IDEALE PER UCCIDERE - 1971
The new fusion rock project from guitar legend Shuggie Otis is a showcase of raw and funky Rock music. The man known for "Strawberry Letter 23" is joined on this Spring 2018 project by Vanilla Fudge/Beck Bogert & Appice drummer Carmine Appice and stellar The Firm/Roy Harper bassist Tony Franklin. Digital download, CD and vinyl available April 20th via Cleopatra Records.
"Biello’s debut release “Vagabond Soul” deftly combines a modernistic sense of harmony with lyrical, heartfelt melodies. Fueled by a diverse combination of post-bop, electronica, and folk sentimentalities, “Vagabond Soul” weaves deeply personal stories for a set of daring, bold, and unique performances. Featuring luminaries Phil Markowitz (piano), John Benitez (bass) and Clarence Penn (drums) as well as special guests Vincent Lionti (viola), Paul Jones (tenor) and Andrew Renfroe (guitar)." - Truth Revolution Records
"Sir Joe Quarterman discusses opening for Earth Wind & Fire, James Brown, recording at Muscle Shoals, performing at the Apollo Theater, touring in Europe, and his LP cover listed in Rolling Stone Magazine as one of the 500 greatest covers. Interview conducted by Majorie Valbrun, The Root, Baltimore Sun."
Shop rare Funk and Soul releases from the relaunched Al & The Kidd Records below at Juno Records.
Enjoy an expression of music designed to make the passing of time appear as a pleasant and dream-like state. Musician James Johnson III crafts a beautiful Rhodes-driven groove highlighted by the soothing vocoder-like tone of singer Carolyn Perteete. Like the descent of leaves in autumn or snow in winter, the cool and calm vibe of "Seven Days of Falling" inspires you to take time for a moment of freedom and reflection of life. From James's 2018 LP "Full Circle" out now.
Cool DJ Flush digs in his tapes to uncover a gem of mid-80's Hip Hop with a radio set of tunes and rare live recording of L.L. Cool J & Cut Creator. The young Cool J sounds hard as hell as an up and coming rebel and leader of Hip Hop who's backed by the most slamming beats of the time period. Listen as the duo perform songs from their classic debut album, the performance begins at the 37:20 mark of side-A.
"A new colossal star rises in the twilight of funky soul jazz as Ernie Hawks releases his debut album "Scorpio Man" on Timmion Records. The impressive trombonist/flutist, is known to hold no punches, when performing live in the ranks of The Soul Investigators. Here he delivers a fierce selection of S.O.U.L. and Cymande flavored instrumentals that also bring to mind some of the finest sample-fodder library music.
The album's name, "Scorpio Man" might come from the stinging and slightly intimidating style Hawks handles the trombone slide, known to pierce the hearts and souls of the ladies in the front row during his live performances. On this album, Ernie rides to battle equipped only with the flute, but this does not mean we will be exposed to some smooth jazz snooze fest. Rather Ernie handles his instrument with muscular rawness at times and moody ambiance at others, sliding with ease into any groove that the extended Soul Investigators band lays down.
"Scorpio Man" is no one trick pony, and the listener will be shifted around from the exhilarating psych funk of "Scorpio Walk" all the way to the airy moods of "Street of Tears". Take a chance with the Scorpio Man, his sting will give you a funky high much better than what they sell in the streets."
"Acclaimed Cuban pianist Omar Sosa and Germany’s NDR Bigband are set to release Es:sensual on January 18. This is the international release of this album that previously available only in Germany.
Es:sensual is a continuation of pianist and composer Omar Sosa’s collaboration with Hamburg’s NDR Bigband (North German Radio-Norddeutscher Rundfunk) and renowned Brazilian cellist, composer and arranger Jaques Morelenbaum, whose inaugural effort can be heard on the Omar Sosa-NDR Bigband CD Ceremony (Otá, 2010)." - wordmusiccentral.org
Here to murder men with verbiage is Supreme Cerebral who uses his outstanding mind for rhymes as his weapon. This MC recognizes the cold and threatening place that Hip Hop originates from and projects these dark emotions on two aggressive tracks from 2017 and 2018. Enjoy the visuals as an emerging rhyme spitter gets raw and prepares for war.
Get your shelves ready for heaters in store over at eBay as dealers unload rare test press Hip Hop singles from the crates. For Spring 2018, you've got a nice supply of gems to pick from including Positive K, Trigga Da Gambler, K-Def, O.C., Heather B, King Tee, Main Source, Digital Underground Kane and more.
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