Love for Atmosfear was born out of the underground UK dance scene of the early 1980s; from nightclubs, pirate radio shows and soul weekenders. A localised scene that went on to have a global influence.

The band’s most notable track ‘Dancing in Outer Space’ - included here on the CD version as a bonus - is a certified classic. It was a chart hit in the UK and was also championed Stateside in clubs such as the mythic ‘Paradise Garage’ and ‘The Loft’ by the likes of Larry Levan and David Mancuso. An instantly recognisable anthem that is just as fresh today as it was when it was first released.

Originally released in 1981 via Elite / MCA records, ‘En Trance’ is a joyous album that arguably represents the pinnacle of the Brit-funk sound. The band consisted of bassist, and keyboardist Lester J. Batchelor, drummer Ray Johnson, guitarist Andy Sojka, saxophonist Stewart Cawthorne, singer and guitarist Tony Antonio and producer Jerry Pike. The album captures the excitement of these exceptional players demonstrating utmost originality in the studio.

TRACK LISTING

CD:
Free Tonight
Duende
Creator’s Dream
Interplay
Funk The Rock
Invasion / Return Of LB
Dancing In Outer Space
Motivation
Extract
Alternative II

LP:
Free Tonight
Duende
Creator’s Dream
Interplay
Funk The Rock
Invasion / Return Of LB

Written and produced with Ebo Taylor and originally released in 1975,  "Simigwa" is Ambolley's debut solo album. It's a legendary Ghanain album - with one of the music iconic covers ever! - that fuses Highlife, afrobeat, folk and funk.
Ambolley grew up during the peak of Highlife in Ghana and was a key figure in its fusion with soul and funk influences from the USA. He played in many bands including Houghas Extraordinaires, Meridians Of Tema, Ghana Broadcasting Band and the Uhuru Dance Band, for which he was recruited by his friend, Ebo Taylor. The group went to Nigeria in 1973 to play with Fela at his legendary Shrine spot.
‘Simigwa’ was a chance for Ambolley to release his own productions and to experiment to a certain extent. A main inspiration for this album was the work of the mighty Mr. James Brown, something that is evident from the rhythm section, horns, vocal stabs and percussion breaks throughout the record.

TRACK LISTING

Kwaakwaa
Akoko Ba
This Hustling World
Toffie
Adwoa
Fa No Dem Ara

Those digging experts at Mr Bongo do it again, raiding the crates to bring us a pair of super groovy Brazilian cuts, recorded 30 years apart. On the A-side we get the soulful Rhodes and synthy squelch of Helio Matheus' "Mais Kriola", a lovely laid back mid tempo boogie/soul/fusion jam, which first appeared on Brazilian Beats Brooklyn compilation put together by Greg Caz and Sean Marquand in 2006. Over on the other side we get the cocktail hour cool of "Maita" by Doris Monteiro. A wonderful piece of warm, upbeat MPB fusing carefree vocals with free flowing guitar and an infectious Brazilian rhythm, "Maita" originally appeared on her ‘Agora’ LP from 1976, released by Odeon.

STAFF COMMENTS

Patrick says: Fresher than a caipirinha on a hot summer's day, this Brazilian double header from Mr Bongo is simply gawjus. Boogie fusion from Helio on the A-side, breezy MPB from Doris on the flip - Beleza!

Two more of our favourite cuts from The Sylvers first album, produced by Jerry Butler, Keg Johnson and Michael Viner, written by the hugely talented Leon Sylvers III. ‘I Know Myself’ was sampled by 9th Wonder for his ‘Easy’ track.

Classic funk-soul material of the highest order from the brilliant Cymande. ‘Fug’ and ‘Brothers On The Slide’ are two classic, essential Cymande tracks, taken from their ‘Second Time Round’ and ‘Promised Heights’ LP’s, respectively. Mastered from original tapes to create the best possible reproduction, cut loud on 7” vinyl. Licensed from John Schroeder Enterprises.

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Soul-funk lovers re-joice - Cymande 7"s ffrrresh off the press! One of two mega releases to drop this week on Mr. Bongo.

One of the rarest records in the world, by ‘Os Mutantes’ before they were ‘Os Mutantes’. heavyweight Brazilian Psychedelic Rock and Folk.

‘O’Seis’ are the core members of the mighty and legendary ‘Os Mutantes’ - namely Rita Lee and brothers Arnaldo and Sergio Baptista, accompanied here by Raphael Vilardi, Maria ‘Mogguy’ Malheiros and Luiz Pastura.

The record features anthemic, heavyweight, psychedelic rock on ‘Suicida’ b/w deeper, tripped-out MPB-folk on ‘Apocalipse’. Both tracks were written by Rita Lee, assisted by Tobe and Vilardi respectively.

The term ‘holy grail’ is a little overused these days perhaps, but this definitely is one. Originally pressed and released by the band themselves in 1966, apparently only a handful of copies are known to exist (sources/numbers vary). The record has changed hands for up to a staggering $5000! Ouch.

Official Mr Bongo reissue of the ultra-rare Nigerian disco-boogie, ‘Viva Disco’, album from 1980. Originally released on the Afrodisia label, this one is unknown to even the most knowledgable collectors out there.

Tunde Mabadu recorded two albums in the 70’s - ‘Viva Disco’ and ‘Bisu’ as Tunde Mabadu & His Sunrise. Perfect examples of golden-era Nigerian disco & boogie that still hold their own today.

TRACK LISTING

Alabosi
Disco Press Funk
Amupara Ko Ma Dara
African Parowo
Angelina - Sugar Daddy
Viva Disco (Instrumental)

Official Mr Bongo reissue of this ultra-rare LP from the funk stars deluxe, ‘Super Elcados’. "Togetherness Is Always a Good Venture" is a fusion of heavyweight Nigerian funk, soul & disco, originally released by EMI Nigeria in 1976.  The ‘Super Elcados’ (and ‘Elcados’ on other recordings) recorded three albums in the mid and late-70’s, this is their first. It was followed by ‘This World Is Full Of Injustice’ and ‘What Ever You Need’. Dipping into the sunkissed grooves here you'll find hot guitar licks, fuzzy organs and bright brass, all taking turns over an irresistible Afro-funk rhythm section.

TRACK LISTING

Tambourine Party
Afro Funk
Xray Gun
How Much I Love You
Ejole
TributeTo Murtala Mohammed
Get Up And Do It Good
Price Of Fame

First official reissue of the extremely rare full-length album by Lagos-based bandleader Shina Williams. Clean copies of the original currently sell for up to £500.

The record was born in 1979 when Shina put Biddy Wright, Fred Fisher, Saliu Alabi, Prince Bola, Tutu Shoronmu, Tunde Willimas and several other decorated Nigerian musicians - who played with the likes of Fela Kuti, SJOB Movement, Sonny Okoson, King Bucknor amongst others - together to record. The result is ‘African Dances’, a timeless fusion of afrobeat, electronics, boogie and disco.

Includes his most well-known song, ‘Agboju Logun’ that Williams knew was ground breaking - “I want to show the whole wide world that Africa is alive with modern musicians to reckon with anywhere,”. This album version is a different mix to the two-track 12” that came out under on Earthworks, Rough Trade in 1984.

TRACK LISTING

Cunny Jam Wayo
Agboju Logun
Gboro Mi Ro

JA poster boy Protoge returns with a fresh new album "A Matter Of Time". As always his positive, politically conscious and wry commentary doesn't fail to raise the spirit and the sufferer in us all. Backed with an incredibly strong rhythm section and produced by Winta James, there's two guest appearances from Chronixx (on vocals) and one King Jammy (!!!) on production. Hit singles “Blood Money”, “Truth & Rights” and “Bout Noon” hit hard with some fantastic lyrics, and the whole album is assembled beautifully, playing through like the modern day reggae masterpiece that it truly is.

Protoje is going from strength to strength, and on "A Matter Of Time" it really feels like he's found a natural stride - effortless songwriting and precise instrumentals making for a wonderfully rewarding listen. Recommended!

Officially reissued at last - a genuine ‘holy grail’ of soul & funk. Featuring ‘Miracles’ as sampled by Public Enemy, Basement Jaxx, Arrested Development and many more.
Originally from Compton, Los Angeles, the Jackson Sisters were one-hit wonders who briefly shone and made some noise in the early 1970s before quickly fading into obscurity. Their only US chart entry was ‘I Believe In Miracles,’ a funky slice of bubblegum soul with a catchy, sing-along chorus released on the Prophesy label that briefly saw them make the lower reaches of the R&B charts in September 1973.
Even though the sisters ceased performing together in 1975, their greatest tune, ‘I Believe In Miracles’ began to live a charmed life. In 1988, the song was resurrected as part of the UK ‘Rare Groove’ scene which resulted in it denting the bottom end of the UK pop charts (it peaked at No. 72). British vocal group, The Pasadenas, cut their own version of the tune in 1989, and a year later, Public Enemy sampled ‘Miracles’ for their track, ‘Can’t Do Nuttin’ For Ya Man.’

STAFF COMMENTS

David says: Mr Bongo bring more brilliance for the funk/soul brothers with this essential reissue of the sisters - but don't take my word for it, ask Chuck D.

TRACK LISTING

Where Your Love Is Gone
Maybe
Why Do Fools Fall In Love?
Day In The Blue
Rockin’ On My Porch
Boy You’re Dynamite
Rock Steady 
Miracles
(Why Can’t We Be) More Than Just Friends?
Shake Her Loose

The legendary 1972 album from Celia, arranged by Arthur Verocai with replica artwork.

Celia Regina Cruz recorded four self-titled albums for Continental between 1971 and 1977, ‘Amor’ in 1982 plus several more before she sadly passed away late in 2017.

Celia was a Brazilian vocalist who worked frequently with master arranger and composer Arthur Verocai in her early years and many other heavyweights over the course of her extensive career.

This, her second self-titled LP from 1972, features an all-star line up including Arthur Verocai, Erasmo Carlos, Roberto Carlos, Marcos Valle, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Nonato Buzar and Vinicius de Moraes amongst others.

Celia’s version of ‘Na Boca do Sol’ - taken from this album - is arguably her most well-known and well-loved song. An incredible take on Verocai’s original, featuring waling fuzz guitars, strings, piano, horns and drums. Needless to say clean, original versions of this record now change hands for silly money!

TRACK LISTING

A Hora EE Essa
Toda Quarta-Feira Depois Do Amor
Dominus Tecum
Ay Adelita
Vida De Artista
Mia
Na Boca Do Sol
Em Familia
Detalhes
E Preciso Dizer Adeus
Dez Bilhoes De Neuronios
Badalacao (Bahia, Volume 2)

Official Mr Bongo reissue. Replica original artwork, including the insert with listening instructions, in Spanish and English.

Luis Perez was born in Mexico City on July 11, 1951. From 1971 onwards he dedicated much of his time to the research of pre-Columbian instrumentation. This research that allowed him to travel the Mexican territory and study musical traditions of the native peoples of Mexico.

He learned directly from the living sources of the music and collected samples of musical instruments and the songs of different native speakers including Maya, Nahuatl, Mazateco, Yoemem, Comcaac, Raramuri, Wixarika and more. His personal collection of native Mexican instruments includes ethnographic instruments still in use by ethnic groups, along with archaeological artifacts some of which are more than 2,000 years old.

He continuously utilises these instruments in performances, concerts, lectures, exhibitions and recordings, in a sense, keeping them alive. Following a decade playing in Mexico City’s psychedelic rock scene, his early solo work was a mixture of sounds derived from his vast array of pre-Hispanic and ethnographic wind and percussions which he managed to blend with electronic devices including tape delay units, electric guitars and synthesisers. During this time, he was given the name ‘Ixoneztli’ (or “one who makes music”) by the legendary ‘curandera’ Pachita and her son Enrique, to whom, like Alejandro Jodorowsky before him, Luis served as assistant. In 1981, the Mexican government became very interested Perez work and sponsored the production of what became the first recording of the fusion of native mexican instruments with electronics - entitled ‘Ipan In Xiktli Metztli,’ in the Nahuatl language, or ‘En el Ombligo de la Luna’ in Spanish... ‘In the Navel of the Moon.’

The impact of this recording and subsequent performances among media, ethnomusicologists and audiences alike established Luis Perez ‘Ixoneztli’ as a precursor to a new musical genre followed by a generation of young Mexican musicians - Ethno-Rock, Ethno-Jazz, Ethno-Experimental and the like. ‘El Ombligo de la Luna’ reaches us from deep in the past but it also exists entirely outside of time, as Luis Perez ‘Ixoneztli’’s offering to the world - the soul of Mexico channeled through the hands of a master musician.

TRACK LISTING

Culto Solar - In Altepetl Tonal
Suite Al Culto Solar - Xochiyaoyoloh
Suite Al Culto Solar - Ketzalkoatl Yauh Miktlan
Ipan In Xiktli Metztli

THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2018 EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

 Replica original artwork, official Mr Bongo reissue.

Ghanaian music legend Ebo Taylor returns with perhaps his finest album to date. But don’t take our word for it. That’s coming straight from the man himself, and he should know after more than 60 years in the business!
The 81-year-old composer, arranger, guitarist and vocalist has been a key figure in the evolving afro-funk sound since the Seventies, working with the likes of Apagya Show Band, CK Mann and Pat Thomas. Famously, he rubbed shoulders with Fela Kuti while studying in London in the Sixties, before going on to lead the Ghana Black Star Band (featuring Osei and Sol Amarfio from Osibisa) and later the Uhuru Dance Band back in Ghana.
Like Fela, he is always pushing forward, constantly reconceptualising his sound and attuning it for a new generation. Part teacher, part messenger, listen to "Yen Ara" and you will not only hear the high-energy afrobeat, sweet highlife, jazz and konkoma influences that he’s famous for, but also a disco pulse and hard-hitting percussive edge to the tracks, which were produced by Justin Adams (Tinariwen, Rachid Taha, Robert Plant) and recorded in the live room at Electric Monkey Studio in Amsterdam.
His group, the Saltpond City Band, are all handpicked local musicians featuring two of his sons. An appropriate line-up on an album whose titles means “we”. And they are on fine form, ripping through tracks such as ‘Krumandey’ (a surefire party starter) and ‘Mind Your Own Business’ (a simple message delivered over a frenetic drum rhythm).
Elsewhere, ‘Aboa Kyirbin’ will please fans of tough afrobeat grooves, while Taylor could well be inciting a riot at his next gig with ‘Mumudey Mumudey’, We hear him calling for ‘preshaaah’ and leading us into a call and response as the trumpet takes us higher. And the lift of those horns on ‘Ankoma’m’ evokes some of his finest work such as ‘Love & Death’ and ‘Come Along’, the latter recorded with the Pelikans and featured on a recent Mr Bongo reissue.

TRACK LISTING

Poverty No Good
Mumudey Mumudey
Krumandey
Aboa Kyirbin 
Mind Your Own Business
Ankoma’m
Abenkwan Puchaa
Yen Ara 
Aba Yaa

A Danny Krivit and Harvey favourite, as sampled by J Dilla and Glenn Underground - a dubby disco cover of the Gamble & Huff penned O’Jays classic. Also featuring on Kenny Dope's amazing "Disco Heat" compilation and receiving plenty plays at Mancusso's legendary Loft parties.

This sound was later pioneered by the likes of Arthur Russell and Larry Levan, and is especially present throughout the Sleeping Bag records catalogue. Replica original 7” artwork, official Mr Bongo reissue, mastered from our original DAT copy.

Latin LSD maverick and champion, Tim Maia returns to our shelves as Mr. Bongo dig deep into this funky tripper's arsenal to reveal an album of wide-eyed disco and riotous soul from later on in his career. That original batch of sunshine still resting in the recesses and pineal glands as the Maia clan deliver this excessive hit of Brazian disco funk from 1978,

The album kicks off with a trio of floor fillers: the exuberant party starter "A Fim De Voltar", a sing-a-long anthem in "Acenda O Farol" and the undeniably funky hit "Sossego" (file that one next to Fatback). But then Maia drops it down and gets existential on "All I Want", questioning the meaning of happiness. He also shows his tender side on slow burners such as "Murm Rio" (written by the great Cassiano) and "Pais E Filhos"; the latter featuring a supersoft bed of harmonies you can’t help but lay down on. But the party ain’t over and mid-tempo groover "Juras" gets the feet moving again before "Jhony" sends us swaying off into the night.

Maia’s appetite for excess would eventually get the better of him. But "Disco Club" is the sound of an unpredictable genius on top form. Get ready for the time of your life.

TRACK LISTING

A Fim De Voltar
Acenda O Farol
Sossego
Vitoria Regia Estou Contigo
E Nao Abro
All I Want
Murmurio
Pais E Filhos
Se Me Lembro Faz Doer
Juras
Jhony

Creep Show brings together John Grant with the dark funk of analogue electronic band Wrangler (Stephen Mallinder/Phil Winter/Benge) to create Mr Dynamite - a debut album packed with experimental pop and surreal funk. Recorded in Cornwall with a lifetime’s collection of drum machines and synthesisers assembled by Benge and explored by every member of Creep Show, there’s a real sense of freedom in the shackles-off grooves, channelling the early pioneering spirit of the Sugarhill Gang through wires and random electric noise. This sense of adventure is also part of the interplay between the two vocalists, John Grant and former Cabaret Voltaire frontman Stephen Mallinder, who switch between oblique wordplay to sinister humour as Phil Winter and Benge continue to man-handle the machines. The creepy ‘alter-ego’ title track, ‘Pink Squirrel’’s vocoder kaleidoscope and Grant’s exhilarating croon on the nine minute ‘Safe And Sound’ are just some of the twists and hooks to be explored on this consistently inventive record.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: So, imagine John Grant's unmistakeable vocal serenades over the top of some rhythmic Bureau B synth pulses, swirling synth patterns and sickly-sweet Linn stabs. What could possibly go wrong? Absolutely nothing is what, it's superb, like we'd expect any different from our John.

TRACK LISTING

1 Mr. Dynamite
2 Modern Parenting
3 Tokyo Metro
4 Endangered Species
5 K Mart Johnny
6 Pink Squirrel
7 Lime Ricky
8 Fall
9 Safe And Sound

‘The Original Sound of Burkina Faso’ follows the hugely successful ‘The Original Sound of Mali’ compilation released in March this year, also on Mr Bongo. Here we have a collection of songs that pay tribute to a truly golden age of music; touching on folk, funk, blues, highlife, disco, psyche, latin, rock and soul.

Burkina Faso may be one of the least well-known parts of West Africa but it has a deep history and musical pedigree. A few years before President Thomas Sankara changed his country’s name from Upper Volta to its current one, a new sound emerged to soundtrack a cultural revolution. Featuring music by Abdoulaye Cisse, Amadou Balake, Pierre Sandwidi & Super Volta, Tidiani Coulibaly & Dafra Star, Bozambo, Youssouf Diarra and more.

TRACK LISTING

CD:
Abdoulaye Cisse - Jeunesse Wilila _
Bozambo - Kombisse _
Pierre Sandwidi - Boy Cuisinier _
Abdoulaye Cisse - Aw Ye Douba Ke _
Tidiani Coulibaly& Dafra Star - De Nwolo _
Mangue Konde & Le Super Mande - Touba _
Amadou Balake - Whisky Et Coca-Cola _
John Oumar Nabolle - M’ba Lale _
Amadou Balake - Super Bar Konon Mousso _
Mangue Konde Et Les 5 Consuls - Pop Konde _
Tidiani Coulibaly & Dafra Star - Sie Koumgolo _
Youssouf Diarra (dit El Grand Ballake) - Djanfa Magni _
Abdoulaye Cisse & Super Volta - A Son Magni _
Amadou Balake - Wayisjelequeyele _
Amadou Balake - Aminata Du The _
Pierre Sandwidi & Super Volta - Yamb Ney Capitale _

LP 1:
Abdoulaye Cisse- Jeunesse Wilila
Abdoulaye Cisse - Tieba Lou Tounouna
Bozambo - Kombisse
Amadou Balake - Whisky Et Coca-Cola
John Oumar Nabolle_ - M’ba Lale
Pierre Sandwidi - Boy Cuisinier
Tidiani Coulibaly & Dafra Star - Sie Koumgolo

LP 2:
Amadou Balake - Super Bar Konon Mousso
Mangue Konde Et Les 5 Consuls - Pop Konde
Youssouf Diarra (dit El Grand Ballake) - Djanfa Magni
Amadou Balake - Wayisjelequeyele
Amadou Balake - Aminata Du The
Abdoulaye Cisse & Super Volta - A Son Magni

Mr Bongo follow up their well received "Record Club - Volume One" with another exceptional collection of global grooves, perfectly placed for DJ use or home listening. Picking up some of the finest reissues of recent memory alongside a slew of their own discoveries, this collection is packed to the brim with soulful, jazzy and funky jams from all across the globe. The gospel stomp of Twinkie Clark's "Awake O Zion" blasts off after an Athens Of The North appearance earlier in the year, while the voodoo disco of Guy Cuevas' "Ebony Game" (yet to be reissued) makes a welcome vinyl appearance. The Afro-funk of the Kiru Stars is back on wax after a blink and you missed it issue on Afro7, while perenial Nigerian faves Effi Duke and Oby Onyioha groove away after PMG and Soundway presses respectively. Sofrito fave "Oh Yeh Soweto" keeps the party powering along before Rahbani's "Liza...Liza" blows us all away. Elsewhere, about a dozen dope Latin cuts send us dancing into the night with a sympathetic blend of sunkissed rhythms and smiling melody. Great stuff.

STAFF COMMENTS

Patrick says: Arguably even better than Volume One, this latest collection from Mr Bongo brings the global grooving to your living room/DJ Set. Ranging from Gospel disco to Nigerian funk, via South African party jams and Latin love affairs, this is a truly all killer affair.

TRACK LISTING

Luiz Henrique - Mas Que Nada
Elbernita ‘Twinkie’ Clark - Awake O Zion
Guy Cuevas - Ebony Game
Kiru Stars (Julius Kang’ethe) - Family Planning
Kelenkye Band - Jungle Music
Effi Duke & The Love Family - The Time Is Come
Anubis - Ecology
Dee Edwards - Put Your Love On The Line
Teaspoon & The Waves - Oh Yeh Soweto
Oby Onyioha - Enjoy Your Life
Leny Andrade - Na_o Adianta
Rosa Maria - Samba Maneiro
Tom & Dito - Obrigado Corcovado
Inezita Barroso - Maracatu Elegante
Joao Diaz - Capoeira / Elias
Rahbani And His Orchestra - Liza... Liza
The Beaters - Harari
The Equatics - Merry Go Round

A post-Tropicalia masterpiece from one of the movements key figures and true legends of Brazilian music, Gal Costa. Features a stellar line up of musicians including Gilberto Gil, Arthur Verocai, Dominguinhos, Rogerio Duprat and Tenorio Jr. amongst others.

Replica original gatefold including the cover that was banned by the Brazil ian military government in 1973 during the brutal dictatorship. ‘

India’ includes the incredible ’Pontos De Luz’ as sampled by Kaytranada on ’Lite Spots’ – one of Mr Bongo’s favourite Brazilian songs of all time. A wonderful album from start to finish, touching on MPB, folk, jazz, funk and rock with strong Tropicalia and Nordestino influences throughout.

A record that Mr Bongo have long been wanting to reissue! Licensed courtesy of Universal Music Group Limited.

‘Spirit Reflection’ is the third album LP from Los Angeles singer-songwriter Gaby Hernandez. Blissful layers of instrumentation, electronics, vocal harmonies and folkloric percussion intertwine with west coast feel to create a unique, beautiful and multi-layered album.

The album features a stellar line-up of LA talent; jazz star Kamasi Washington, Stuart Howard (AKA Lapalux), Kelis and Gaslamp killer collaborator Dexter Story, plus Ninja Tune, Plug Research and Soul Jazz artist Carlos Nin 771;o, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson and Gabriel Reyes-Whittaker all accompany Gaby, with stunning results.

Even before Spirit Reflection had been finished, the demo mixes caught the ear and gained support from Gilles Peterson, Lefto, Toshio Matsuura (U.F.O.) and J- Rocc (Beat Junkies). Born, raised and based in Los Angeles and of Chilean descent, Gaby Hernandez has been writing and recording since 2001. She was a founding member of the ‘creative music ensemble’ Build An Ark alongside others including Carlos Nin 771;o, Dexter Story and Dwight Trible.

Gaby was the only vocalist on Teebs' debut Brainfeeder release Ardour. She made major contributions to AmmonContact's Ninja Tune releases New Birth and With Voices, plus The Life Force Trio's Plug Research album Living Room. She was also the vocalist on Dimlite's Outernational Duet - released as part of his highly acclaimed Sonar Kollektiv longplayer This Is Embracing.

David and Graham from Mr Bongo met Gaby and Carlos Nino at the end of their hugely successful Arthur Verocai album launch and rare record sale at the RAPPCATS venue in LA. “Gaby and Carlos passed us a copy of ‘Spirit Reflection’. and we put it on the deck. It immediately grabbed us and we couldn’t stop listening to it. When we got back to the UK we got in contact straight away and signed the album. We’re very proud to be releasing it”... “...this is a future classic, an 'album' in the truest sense of the word. Brilliant.” says Graham.

“The music itself envelopes its listener in a warmth reminiscent of decades past, presenting both a nostalgic soulful sound and a sensual experience” Culture Collide

“A romantic summer cocktail that should be imbibed half-nude on a beach or while scattering rose petals on a bed. The songs flow between seductive, relaxing and spiritually nurturing, with earthy rhythms and warm production that make the listener feel comforted” Buzz Bands LA

“Jaw-droppingly tasty” LA Weekly

STAFF COMMENTS

Millie says: Shades of Mia Doi Todd abound on this delicate and drifting journey through hook heavy, hazy soul. This is the soundtrack to the summer everyone.

TRACK LISTING

Messy Love
Baobab Tree
I Will Keep You
Spirit Reflection
Entranced
Super Nova Lovers
Stay A While
Lo Mas Dulce
Into Oya!
Windwaves

Malian music is arguably the most sophisticated form of African music. Now Mr Bongo, who have long been entranced by Malian culture, and, in particular, the immense hypnotic beauty of Malian music, have put together a selection of songs from across the country. Compiled by Vik Sohonie & Dave ‘Mr Bongo’ Buttle, the story of this release began in 2015 when Dave happened upon the Soul Bonanza blog. One mix in particular stood out and totally enthralled Dave - le monde a change: a tribute to mali 1970 - 1991. He already knew of Malian legends such as the Rail Band, Salif Keita, & Les Ambassadeurs du Motel de Bamako, but this mix was something else. On this album you will find well-known artists sing next to rarer discoveries. The Rail Band, who are one of the best known of all the big bands in Mali, gave us the stars Mory Kante and Salif Keita. Les Amabassedeurs du Motel de Bamako were another big act that had Idrissa Soumaoro, Kante, Man la, and for a while Salif Keita in their ranks. Sometimes Salif would play in both bands in one night, quite a feat considering the bands were fierce rivals. Asan albino Salif has had to face considerable prejudice from society, focusing on his musical career to help overcome this. A major discovery on the album has been Idrissa Soumaoro et L’Eclipse de L’Ija. L’Eclipse de l’Institut des Jeunes Aveugles was a Blind teenagers institute and their record was produced by the German association that took care of blind Malian teenagers in Bamako. It was never properly released commercially and was the first recordings by the legends of Malian music Idrissa Soumaoro, Amadou Bagayoko and Mariam Doumbia. Amadou & Mariam later got married and became household names. This album is a concerted global effort to showcase the most vital cornerstone of Malian culture in an attempt to preserve its reputation in the face of its current, grim reality. We hope our highlights of Mali’s rich history of musical innovation will serve as a starting point for reclaiming an image tainted by unnecessary conflict. May peace and music return to Mali soon.

TRACK LISTING

Idrissa Soumaoro Et L’Eclipse De L’Ija - Nissodia (Joie De L’op Misme)
Les
Ambassadeurs Du Motel De Bamako - Tiecolom-Ba
Super Tentemba Jazz - Mangan 
Rail Band - Mouodilo
Les Ambassadeurs Du Motel De Bamako - M’Bouram-Mousso 
Sorry Bamba - Yayoroba
Super Djata Band - Worodara
Zani Diabate Et Le Super Djata
Band - Fadingna Kouma
Les Ambassadeurs Du Motel De Bamako - Fatema
Super Djata Band De Bamako - Mali Ni Woula
Salif Keita - Mandjou
Alou Fane & Daouda
Sangare - Komagni Bela
Idrissa Soumaoro Et L’Eclipse De L’Ija - Fama Allah

Vocalists don't come more legendary than Jackie Edwards, and the smooth operator has lent his sweet tones to hundreds of ska, R&B, soul and rocksteady records. He was there at the birth of Island Records and his distinctive soulful voice has rightly given him the moniker of the Original Cool Ruler. A renowned singer from the earliest days of Jamaican recording Jackie Edwards presented future Island Records owner Chris Blackwell with two outstanding tunes in 1959. The first a sentimental ballad “Your eyes are Dreaming” and a Latin beat tune “Tell me Darling”.  His song writing skills were much in so demand and his popularity of such importance that when Chris Blackwell went to London in1962 to set up his record company he took his top Balladeer Jackie with him. This would pay dividends when a UK group Blackwell had signed called The Spencer Davis Group went on to release two of Jackie’s compositions “Keep on Running” and “Somebody Help Me”, which topped the British charts in 1966. Here Kingston Sounds have compiled some of Jackie Edwards finest songs, each covering a different reggae style but all sung to perfection.. Hope you enjoy the set....

STAFF COMMENTS

Patrick says: Killer collection of tunes from the 'original cool ruler' here! Plucked from throughout Jackie's long career the set covers R&B, rocksteady, soul and ska, but it's the righteous roots grooves of "Wad-Ada" and "So Jah Say" that are turning me out!

Hey Mr Ferryman is Mark Eitzel's tenth solo album, his first in three years, and the first full studio album recorded entirely in London. It was made at 355 Studios with Mercury Prize winner Bernard Butler (Suede, McAlmont & Butler). Butler produced and played all of the electric guitar, bass, and keyboard parts on the album. Hey Mr Ferryman features the vivid melodies long associated with Eitzel's former band American Music Club as well as Butler's distinctive guitar that serves to complement Eitzel's expressive vocals. Of that voice, Pitchfork once wrote: "If Leonard Cohen's voice is a story about the passage of time and Levon Helm's is a story about losing what is most precious to you, Eitzel's is about the circuitous roads we take in search of ourselves." Mark Eitzel has released over 15 albums of original material with American Music Club and as a solo artist. The Guardian has called him "America's greatest living lyricist," and Rolling Stone once gave him their Songwriter of the Year award.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: Eitzel goes from the serene to the triumphant between one song to the next, the brilliant balladry of 'In My Role As Professional Singer And Ham' and the easy listening morose indie charms of 'An Answer' providing a soaring and stripped-back counterfoil to the more rocking pieces like the brilliant 'Mr Humphries'. A brilliantly balanced, and eminently listenable delight. Brilliant.

"Krishnanda" is an album in the truest sense of the word – a spiritual, psychedelic Brazilian masterpiece from start to finish – celebrated by everyone from Seu Jorge and Kassin to Floating Points, Madlib and DJ Nuts. These days, originals change hands for thousands of squids, so it's about time that this classic was lovingly re-issued with heavy sleeve and on heavy weight vinyl. Pedro dos Santos, born in Rio in 1919, was a percussionist virtuoso, composer and inventor of instruments that apparently included oddities such as the "Tamba" (electrified bamboo drum) and the mouth berimbau whistle. He was given the nickname Pedro 'Sorongo' after the rhythm he invented, and as the music takes hold, you'll hear that trademark sway throughout 'Krishnanda'. In the same vein as Verocai and his self-titled LP, "Krishnanda" was Pedro's chance to shine with his own, and only, solo recording, and the Brazilian grabbed the opportunity with both hands. Musically, the album touches folk, samba, Afro-Brazilian and psychedelia, while lyrically we hear a depth and diversity to match the spread of the sounds; themes including morality, perception, existence and ego all enter into Pedro's musical world. Despite the genius of the record and the influence that it had on musicians at the time of release, it disappeared into obscurity. Mr Bongo first discovered the record around 2003, through their friend Julio Dui. Around that time Brazilian funk and bossa was the flavour of the day, so didn't catch our ear immediately, however it continued improve with age and now they consider it to be one of the best albums ever made, regardless of genre or origin.

TRACK LISTING

1. Ritual Negro
2. Agua Viva
3. Um Só
4. Sem Sombra
5. Savana
6. Advertencia
7. Quem Sou Eu?
8. Flor De Lotus
9. Dentro Da Selva
10. Desengano Da VistaDual
11. Arabindu

"The first instalment in our new 'Mr Bongo Record Club' compilation series – a selection of favourites, recent discoveries and sought after obscurities, which form the basis of our DJ sets and our radio show of the same name. Including cuts by Claudia, Cortex, Dave Pike Set, Fruko, Neno Exporta Som, Connie Laverne, Barbosa and more.

The original concept for 'Mr Bongo Record Club' was a radio show that allowed us to air our treasured record collections, recorded and broadcast once a month. We wanted to create an outlet free from any genre or BPM restrictions, not constrained by the need to beat-mix every record, a space where we could play latest finds alongside favourites. The only self-imposed rule being that it had to be played from vinyl.

We have always DJ'd across-the-board, but playing in an eclectic way hasn't always been easy. Recently DJ's such as MCDE, Floating Points, Nick The Record, Leon Vynehall, Four Tet, Jeremy Underground, Antal (Rush Hour), Sassy J and Young Marco – to name a few – have opened things up with very diverse sets to younger audiences; Brazilian samba-rock, next to modern soul, highlife, disco, boogie, jazz, house, techno and beyond.
We're seeing a rare groove like sensibility. A shift towards the attitude of legendary club nights hosted by the likes of Mr Scruff and Gilles Peterson, where you could hear house, hip hop, Turkish funk, boogie, jazz, dub and Latin back to back. At the same time it isn't a nostalgic or retro movement, people have a progressive attitude and a thirst for new-old music. It is a vibrant and exciting time – we are proud to be a part of it." - Mr Bongo

STAFF COMMENTS

Patrick says: Even the most cursory glance over this stunning setlist should have you reaching for your wallet. Bringing together classics, rare digs and pound shop finds from their long running radio show and DJ sets, those cats from Mr Bongo career through jazz rock, library funk, highlife, disco and latin without ever missing a trick. Essential!

TRACK LISTING

CD:
Hareton + Meta - KM110 (edit)
Amazones De Guinee - Samba
Evinha - Esperar Pra Ver
Neno Exporta Som - Deixa A Tristeza
Alipio Martins - Piranha
Lemos E Debetio - Morro Do Barraco Sem Agua
Barbosa - Seara De Oxala
Fruko Y Sus Tesos - Salsa Na Ma
Lantei Lamptey - Fish & Funjee (Komi Ke Kenam)
Buari - Karam Bani
The Rwenzori’s - Handsome Boy (E Wara) Pt. 1 & 2
Dave Pike Set - Mathar
Connie Laverne – Can’t Live Without You
Mavis John - Use My Body
Big Youth - Mammy Hot Daddy Cool
Tappa Zukie - Freak
Alex Rodriguez - El Mercado
Claudia - Jesus Christo
Cortex - Chanson D’un Jour D’hiver
King James Version - He’s Forever (Amen)

LP 1:
Neno Exporta Som - Deixa A Tristeza
Alipio Martins - Piranha
Lemos & Debetio - Morro Do Barraco Sem Água
Barbosa - Seara De Ocala
Dave Pike Set - Mathar
Lantei Lamprey – Fish & Funjee (Komi Ke Kenam)
Buari - Karam Bani
The Rwenzori’s - Handsome Boy (E Wara) Pt. 1 & 2

LP 2:
Mavis John - Use My Body
Big Youth - Mammy Hot Daddy Cool
Tappa Zukie - Freak
Connie Laverne - Can’t Live Without You
Alex Rodrigues - El Mercado
Cortex - Chanson D’Un Jour D’Hiver
King James Version - He’s Forever (Amen)

Tip off from our good friend Rodrigo Gorky aka Bonde do Role, that has since become one of our favourite album discoveries, and continues to grow on us with every spin.

‘Os Orixas’ is rich in layered percussion, horns and guitars. Singer Eloah’s lead vocals are reminiscent of the likes of Ellen McIlwaine, Elza Soares and Joyce. Samba, funk, folk, jazz and MPB over ijexa and African grooves, that combine beautifully across the moods. Os Orixas refers to one of the manifestations of the ’supreme God’ in the Yoruba faith.

The songs were written by Luis Berimbau, assisted by Ildásio Tavares. Berimbau was a very influential multi instrumentalist, poet, writer and composer from Bahia, Brazil. He produced the wonderful folk / psychedelic rock group Perfume Azul Do Sol’s ‘Nascimento’ LP amongst many others.

Tavares was an author, composer and poet from Salvador, Bahia. As a composer, he worked with many artists including Vinicius de Moraes, Maria Bethania, Alcyone, Toquinho, Nelson Gonçalves and Maria Creuza. Many of his poetic works were published, and he even penned Afro-Brazilian opera entitled ‘Lydia's Oshun’.

TRACK LISTING

A1 Exú
A2 Ogun
A3 Omulú
A4 Oxossi
A5 Logun Edé
A6 Nanan
B1 Oxun
B2 Yansan
B3 Yemanjá - Berimbau
B4 Xangô
B5 Oxalá
B6 Axé Opô Afonjá Alujá

Banda Black Rio's 'Maria Fumaca' is one of the strongest Brazilian samba-disco-funk-soul-fusion albums of all time. It was voted No. 38 in the Top 100 Brazilian Albums Ever in Rolling Stone Magazine, Brazil. This official Mr Bongo re-issue comes complete with replica original artwork.

Banda Black Rio were formed in 1976 by the late Oberdan Magalhães in Rio de Janeiro. They revolutionised black instrumental music at the time with their Brazilian re-interpretation of soul, jazz, funk and disco grooves, inspired by the likes of Tim Maia and reminiscent of Kool & The Gang and Earth, Wind & Fire during their most on-point period of the 1970's. 'Maria Fumaca' is the groups first album, originally released by Atlantic in 1977 and a record that bought the group worldwide fame.

The title track is a real stand-out for us and a long term firm favourite. 'Miss Cheryll', more of a disco / AOR jam, was released by RCA UK in 1980 as the track become popular within several London scenes.

Recorded at Studio Somil, Rio De Janeiro in 1972, the album was produced, arranged, directed by the self-taught, Arthur Verocai. Previously he had worked on many records in various capacities, with artists including Jorge Ben, Ivan Lins and Celia, this album gave him the chance to do his thing in it's most pure form. The LP has an orchestral folk-soul, jazz, funk or lo-fi electronic experimentation feel, in a similar vein to Shuggie Otis, Charles Stepney (the LP uses 20 piece string arrangements) or Jorge Ben, with lyrics (sung in Portuguese) that subtly challenge the repressive military dictatorship of the time. Featured musicians include Robertinho Silva, Paulo Moura, Edson Maciel, Oberdan Magalhaes (Banda Black Rio) and Tonhino Horta.  For a very long time, Mr Bongo have been trying to re-issue this record. A true and complete album masterpiece in every sense of the word, considered by many people to be one of the greatest ever made, regardless of genre.  Mastered in 2012 from the original Continental master tapes and supervised by Arthur Verocai, the album comes complete with original replica gatefold artwork.

TRACK LISTING

Caboclo 2:48
Pelas Sombras 2:13
Sylvia 2:59
Presente Grego 2:29
Dedicada A Ela 3:30
Seriado 1:40
Na Boca Do Sol 2:52
Velho Parente 2:17
O Mapa 2:38
Karina (Domingo No Grajaú) 5:14

There is an exciting resurgence of conscious, organic music in Jamaica Protoje is playing an important role in this roots reggae revival.

Leading the militant band - The Indiggnation - this powerful songwriter and philosophical thinker articulates the righteous anger of an emerging generation. Protoje reports for duty, re-establishing the standard for the decaying art of socially responsible, mentally stimulating lyricism.

"Protoje showcases the best of five decades of reggae on his new album" - The Guardian

Produced by Peter Buck, Tucker Martine, and Gary Louris, this is the first Jayhawks album since 2011’s “Mockingbird Time” and is a return to the lineup of the band that made “Rainy Day Music” in 2003 - the core band of Gary Louris, Marc Perlman, Tim O'Reagan, and Karen Grotberg.

“It's the start of a brand new adventure.” sings Gary Louris on “Quiet Corners & Empty Spaces”, the opening track on The Jayhawks’ new album Paging Mr. Proust. The band formed in Minneapolis in 1985 and the album shows their commitment to adventure and forward motion which makes this collection of songs exciting and instantly memorable.

Extremely unique, psychedelic up-tempo Brazilian jazz fusion. Flutes, piano and vocal harmonies drift in and out of the mix, creating a lush soundscape.

Taiguara was a prolific and hugely successful singer and songwriter - primarily within pop / MPB - whose career spanned nine albums in the late 60's and 70's. He is also thought to be one of the most censored Brazilian artists and was exiled to London in the 1970's by the Brazilian dictatorship.

'Aquarela' is taken from his most experimental album 'Imyra, Tayra, Ipy' originally released in 1976 on Odeon and is a killer up-tempo psychedelic funk/soul track, highly sought after, originally released on Copaconana 7" in 1970.

On side B Marisa Rossi's vocals, and also the backing track to 'Deixa Eu Te Amar', sound very much like the wonderful Swedish soul-jazz / funk singer Doris. This one's a real swinger.

On side A we have Noelita's 'Sambalanca', a quirky, up-beat samba, originally released in 1973 on Copacabana. Organ and horn lines bubble under the drum groove and percussion. Taken from her only LP ‘Quando Me Sinto Só’ released in 1975. Sought after and expensive in its original form. Flip over for  Doris Monteiro's 'E Isso Ai'. The instantly recognisable, original version of the classic and much covered ‘E Isso Ai’. Beautiful laid back samba / MPB (Música Popular Brasileira), drenched in horns and percussion. Taken from her 1971 Odeon LP. This is the second time the hugely prolific Doris Monteiro has featured in Mr Bongo's Brazil 45’s series; previously with ‘Se Vocé Quiser Mas Sem Bronquear’ on number 9.

“Hear what happen now! Me and me friends had a kinda thing like the jukebox was our sound system and we’d use our lunch money to play the baddest tunes on the jukebox. We were aided and abetted by a kinda dodgy little shop keeper cause we were kids and we were in the rum bar punching the juke box when we weren’t supposed to be allowed!! So we were breaking all the rules” - Ossie Thomas

Breaking rules from the outset Ossie Thomas had furthered his childhood fascination with music while still attending Oberlin High School and many more rules would be broken when together with Phillip Morgan he set up the Black Solidarity label in 1979 on Delamare Avenue deep in the heart of Kingston.

For this latest reissue from the label, Black Solidarity turn their attention to singer Robert Ffrench. Later to have the massive hit 'Bun And Cheese' with Clement Irie, this collection brings together Ffrench's solo work in the mid 80s.

TRACK LISTING

1. Joker Family
2. Radication
3. Mr Babylon
4. Single Life
5. Problem Is A Cry
6. Bad Boy Posse
7. Rebel Girl
8. The Favourite
9. Cut Eye Cut Eye
10. Me Raggamuffin
11. A Dance Without A Deejay
12. Mother In Law
13. No Modelling*
14. Shock We A Shock*
15. True True Loving*
*CD Bonus Tracks

"...grounded in samba, but with layers of psychedelic rock on top... the original numbers rock the hardest – 5/5." MOJO Magazine

Rare and highly sought after in its original format, Os Brazoes self-titled album was originally released on RGE Discos in 1969. It is a psychedelic masterpiece that fuses samba, r’n’b and rock ’n’ roll influences using fuzz guitars, synths, percussion, lush vocals and effects.

Os Brazoes formed in Rio de Janeiro in the late 1960’s. They backed Gal Costa during her Tropicalia period, yet apparently never recorded in the studio with her. Miguel de Deus, the bands front man, recorded the highly sought after ‘Black Soul Brothers’ LP in 1977, which became an important record in the ‘Black Rio’ movement. Mr Bongo released the title track from that LP, on the ‘Brazilian Beats: Brooklyn’ compilation in 2006 and recently as part of their Brazil 45’s re-issue series.

‘Os Brazoes’ features covers of Gilberto Gil’s ‘Pega a Voga, Cabeludo’ and Jorge Ben and Toquinho’s ‘Carolina, Carol Bela’.

The Mr Bongo LP reissue is manufactured in Japan, presented in a super high quality card sleeve with replica original artwork. The CD is presented in a 4-page digi-pack.

'Dawn Of The Dread' brings the big personality that is Horseman to the forefront of a full length album for the first time. As fearsome a drummer as he is an MC, Horseman has worked with musicians and producers Tippa Irie, Max Romeo, Gregory Isaacs, Sugar Minott, Jah Shaka, Mad Professor, Barrington Levy, Eek-A-Mouse and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with John Holt - to name but a few - most recently performing with Hollie Cook and Prince Fatty. It was while playing with renowned outfit The Ruff Cut Band he met producer and long term colaborater Mike 'Prince Fatty' Pelanconi. 'Dawn Of The Dread' was recorded at Studio Dub in Thailand before being mixed at Prince Fatty's Ironworks studio in Brighton. "Mike just asked, "you ever been to Thailand?" and we went. There were great vibes, we walked in and it all fell into place. We were looking to get that 80s digital sound and all that original equipment was just there waiting for us. It was fate".

TRACK LISTING

Dawn Of The Dread
Reality Time
Take Charge
Brixton
The Yout Feat Tippa Irie
Snake Skin
Computer
No Ina Dat
Ghetto Life Feat Winston Reedy
Sweet Reagge Music Feat Earl 16

The groove of the 70s dancefloor jazz made an impact on the Finnish jazz scene and the track 'Grandma's Rocking Chair' is viewed as a highlight of that era. Featured on the original pressing in 1976, the track was picked up by legendary US house producer Kenny Dope when he sampled the track for his record 'The Illout'. Most likely the track was taken from a "Finnish Jazz 66 - 75" bootleg album.

Born 6 August 1949, Olli Ahvenlahti is a Finnish pianist, composer, and conductor and has been one of Finland's leading Jazz artists since the 70s. He has recorded with several artists including UMO Jazz Orchestra. There was a small group of very talented jazz musicians in Finland during the 70s, of which Ahvenlahti was one of the key players. His band consisted of the cutting-edge musicians of that decade, including Markku Johansson, Bertil Strandberg and Pekka Pöyry.

The LP version is manufactured in Japan in Mr Bongo's new, improved, super high quality sleeves and replicates the original 1976 release exactly.

It’s a new Mr. Scruff album and you know what to expect, right? We widdle on about sexy potatoes and bouncy bacteria offering you a cup of tea, you have a little chuckle and actually make a brew, you stick on the album and… hold on. Because you see, quietly and without a lot of fuss (cos that’s not the way the Stockport Strepsil rolls) Mr. Scruff aka Andy Carthy has been evolving and developing his music.

So yeah, you can still count upon a shedload of gritty funk and stony soul (not sure where this metaphor’s going..?) but the new record displays a stripped back musicality, a depth that maybe hasn’t been there before. It’s been coming across his last few releases, but this is the most complete, sustained exploration of where his music is at right now. In Carthy’s own pithy words it’s “tougher, sparser, less samples, more bass. More vocals and collaborations and shorter tunes.”

If this record proves anything, it’s that there’s more, much more to the work of Andy Carthy than dancefloor grooves and funny cartoons.

Don’t worry though - it is still one sexy potato.

TRACK LISTING

01. Stereo Breath Feat. Denis Jones
02. Render Me Feat. Denis Jones
03. Deliverance
04. Thought To The Meaning Feat. Denis Jones
05. Friendly Bacteria
06. Come Find Me Feat. Vanessa Freeman
07. Where Am I?
08. He Don't Feat. Robert Owens
09. What
10. We Are Coming
11. Catch Sound Feat. Denis Jones
12. Feel Free

The album is the follow-up to her fantastic eponymous debut album which was released to huge acclaim in 2011, with Q calling it "gorgeous late '70's style reggae pop" whilst the BBC named it as "one of the most enjoyable reggae albums of 2011". In 2012 a dub version of the debut album was released – "Prince Fatty Presents Hollie Cook In Dub". That same year Ian Brown asked Hollie to support The Stone Roses on one of their hugely anticipated reunion shows at Manchester's Heaton Park.

The new album "Twice" sees Hollie's obvious love of reggae joined by other influences including Bond-like strings, Brazilian percussion, dark disco and shades of Giorgio Moroder. She is joined on the album by Dennis Bovell, Omar, George Dekker and Winston Francis. The strings on the album are the Macedonian Radio Symphonic Orchestra and Choir. The album was produced by Prince Fatty.

Mr Bongo is extremely proud to announce the much-anticipated release of the next installment from the legendary Prince Fatty. This time Prince Fatty is up against the mighty Mungo's Hi Fi Soundsystem.

Prince Fatty is a group put together by producer and engineer Mike Pelanconi, (whose credits include Lilly Allen's smash 'Alright Still' and Little Barrie 'Stand your Ground' ). The group also includes; Little Roy, Bubblers from the Ruff Cut Band, Style Scott from the Roots Radics, Winston Francis and Hollie Cook. Prince Fatty has worked with the likes of Bukky Leo, Nostalgia 77, Prince Buster, Lee 'Scratch' Perry and Studio One and won't disappoint the lovers of the early 70s sound.

Mungo's Hi Fi champion the evolution of reggae, dub and dancehall music and are re-invigorating soundsystem culture. They have developed formidable live shows, collaborating with foundation legends like Ranking Joe, Sugar Minott and Sister Nancy as well as top vocalists on the scene at the moment including Charlie P, Solo Banton, Mr Williamz, YT and Scotland's own lyrical lassie Soom T.

Re-released for the first time since 1974, this is the sequel to the classic 1973 ‘Bongo Rock’, which became a foundation of rap and popular music, up to the present day. This LP has been sampled by Bentley Rhythm Ace, Fatboy Slim, Macy Gray, Group Home and Koushik.

The Incredible Bongo Band is a blend of many multi-talented people. Jim Gordon is one of the featured musicians. Ringo Starr has said "Jim is one of the finest drummers in the world". Gordon composed 'Layla' in association with Eric Clapton. King Errisson is one of the best percussionists in the world, having contributed to the Jackson Five and most other Motown hits as well as touring with Diana Ross
.
Perry Botkin Jr. is a writer, musician and producer of the highest order who received an Academy Award nomination for "Bless the Beasts and the Children" and produced groups such as as The Letterman, Vanity Fair and Ed Ames. Micheal Viner formed The Incredible Bongo Band to be a musical forum for himself and his friends. The Bongo Band has picked up ideas from a multitude of greats ranging from Harry Nilsson to Ringo Starr and Mike Deasy, who played with Elvis Presley for many years, made a large contribution to this album.

TRACK LISTING

Kiburi
When The Bed Breaks Down I'll Meet You In The Spring
Sing,Sing,Sing
Pipeline
Wipe Out
Hang Down Your Head Tom Dooley Your Tie's Caught In The Zipper
Topsy Part I, Topsy Pat II, Topsy Part III
Sharp Nine
(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction
Got The Sun In The Morning And The Daughter At Night
Ohkey Dokey

Belgium, not the first place you'd think of when it comes to Latin or Afro-funk. Yet one of the greatest records to blend both styles came from the small northern European country, masterminded by Nico Gomez and his Afro Percussion Inc.

'Ritual' was originally released in 1971 on the Dutch label Omega International (Gomez was born in Holland before moving to Belgium in the late 40s) and is being reissued by Mr Bongo in 2013, bringing its blazing funk grooves to both new ears and those already tuned in to this masterpiece's legacy.

Across its 11 tracks Ritual delivers the kind of production, arrangement and musicianship that rightfully belong in a dictionary next to the definition of professional. Gomez' band was tight and they knew it, showing it off on their covers of Perez Prado's 'Caballo Negro' and 'Lupita' by injecting the originals with a deep funk that blends both Afro and Latin influences. On 'Samba De Una Nota So' and 'El Condor Pasa', another pair of covers, they switch to soulful downtempo with mesmerising ease. The title cut remains one of the album's highlights, a devastating dancefloor groove with horns to match that has aged beautifully and was heavily sampled by Liquid People for 'The Dragon'. 'Pa! Pa! Pa! Pa!' adds touches of rock with fuzzy guitars for one of the album's headier experiences.

'Ritual' is a perfect example of the kind of experimentation that was rife in the 70s and which, when done as well as on this album, proves quite simply timeless.

Special edition vinyl in hand screen printed sleeve. Exclusive to independent stores. 350 copies only!

‘Mr Impossible’ is the sixth full length album from New York Noise vets Black Dice.

This record is irreverent and aggressive - for fans of speedy, industrial-tinged electronic experiments.

Animal Collective’s Noah Lennox says "I feel like the wisest things I've learned about being in a band I learned by watching them."

TRACK LISTING

Pinball Wizard
Rodriguez
The Jacker
Pigs
Spy Vs. Spy
Out Body Drifter
Sh*thouse Drifter
Carnitas
Brunswick Sludge

'Mr Impossible' is the sixth full length album from New York Noise vets Black Dice.

This record is irreverent and aggressive - for fans of speedy, industrial-tinged electronic experiments.

Animal Collective’s Noah Lennox says "I feel like the wisest things I've learned about being in a band I learned by watching them."

Hollie Cook was born and bred in West London in a household dominated by music. She gravitated to the sounds of Marc Bolan, David Bowie and The Cure. With Sex Pistol Paul Cook as her dad, music was always around. Entering professional acting, singing and modelling at a young age, Hollie soon rejected her performance arts schooling for a musical path truer to her influences. Family friend and Slits singer Ari Up persuaded Hollie to sing backing vocals for a new EP "Revenge Of The Killer Slits", which she followed by ditching school to join the band on a six week US tour. Hollie was now an official Slit - Ari referred to Hollie as the 'second singer' - so when it came to record a new Slits album in LA, Hollie's vocals, keyboards and even her song "Cry" all featured. More collaborations followed: a duet with Jamie T on his "Chaka Demus" EP, with Ian Brown on "The World Is Yours", and most significantly as featured vocalist on Prince Fatty's underground reggae hit "Milk & Honey". Hollie jumped at the chance to get in the studio with Mike as she was smitten by the tracks she had heard. Hollie's passion for reggae singers Janet Kay and Phyllis Dillon combined with classic 60s girl groups formed the basis for her new solo work of self coined 'tropical pop'. Sweet.

Scruff's debut for Ninja Tune, and it's just one of those essential LPs for fans of quirky, jazzy upbeat downbeat grooves. Includes the massive trad-jazz-house anthem (and advert favourite) "Get A Move On", as well as "Honeydew", "Jus Jus" with Roots Manuva and the silly "Shanty Town" and "Fish".

"Ninja Tuna" sees the triumphant aquatic-themed return of the reigning yet uncrowned world champion of fish-related cheekiness. Yes, Mr Scruff is back with a long player that's packed with pure funky loveliness from start to finish. The set opens with b-boy hip hop cut "Test The Sound" before heading straight into current single "Music Takes Me Up" featuring Alice Russell ("Donkey Ride" and "Kalimba" also feature), while other special guests include Roots Manuva, Quantic and Andreya Triana. As ever with a Scruff long player we get a nice mix of wobbly bass, funky breaks, jazzy grooves and soulful touches - sometimes all in the same song!

The word legendary gets bandied around with increasing frequency, but in house music circles that aren't many more worthy of that particular epithet than Larry Heard. The man's forays onto vinyl are ever more occasional since his well-documented withdrawals from the scene, so when an Alleviated 12" comes along it's a big deal in our book. "You Rock Me" conveys all the classic Heard sounds with its gentle tempo, careful textures and understated, old school vocals from Mr Chris. "The Sun Can't Compare" is instantly different, drawing on Mr Fingers acid for a faster and wholly electronic backing with those ageless drum sounds. Originally released back in October 2006, this 12" is one of the most requested records we've had in eons - back again for 2024 they don't get much more timeless than this.

TRACK LISTING

A. You Rock Me
B. The Sun Can't Compare

"Mr Beast" is the band's fifth album and the follow-up to 2003's "Happy Songs For Happy People" and was recorded in the band's new Castle Of Doom studio in Glasgow. As the title suggests, this is a record of considerable size and weight - a monster creation that started out as a return to the heady, bone-crushing volume and intensity of earlier recordings, and then mutated into a many headed, many mooded beast. It opens with "Auto Rock" - whose sweetly melancholic, central piano motif is gradually engulfed by a swell of fulsome guitars and pummelling drum beats - and closes with lurching, psych-rock behemoth "We're No Here". In between are eight future Mogwai classics, including the heads-down "Glasgow Mega-Snake", where what must surely be a dozen guitars swarm around a molten metal core like crazed killer bees, the drum machine-driven country gospel of "Acid Food", which features pedal-steel guitar, the wintry splendour of "Friend Of The Night" and the impossibly poignant "I Chose Horses", featuring guest vocalist Tetsuya Fukagawa (of Japanese hardcore band Envy) and a keyboard contribution from composer/arranger Craig Armstrong. Whether light and lean or dark and monstrous, however, these songs underline Mogwai's belief that to have meaning, rock needs both mass and monumentality. If "Mr Beast" has one thing, it's presence.

TRACK LISTING

1. Auto Rock
2. Glasgow Mega Snake
3. Acid Food
4. Travel Is Dangerous
5. Team Handed
6. Friend Of The Night
7. Emergency Trap
8. Folk Death 95
9. I Chose Horses
10. We're No Here

Bristol five piece The Cuban Heels release their excellent second single. "Mr Brannam" is a musical hybrid of ELO's "Mister Blue Sky" and Razorlight's "Golden Touch" which may sound a bit dodgy, but it's actually a rather good pop song! Expect big things from these fellas!

At last, Mr Scruff's 1997 self-titled (although often referred to as "Mrs Cruff") debut album gets re-issued! It's a fantastic collection of instrumental tracks indelibly marked with Scruff's sampladelic cheekiness and fat, deep BASS heavyness. Opening with the soundsystem-like "Sea Mammal", the album works its way through head-nodding hip hop breakers like "Bass Baby" and "Bonce", via the warm jazz moods of "Jazz Potato" and "Night Time" to the funky jazz-breaking "Crisps" and club smash "Chicken In A Box", setting out a statement of intent (fun, funky and fat) for all his future tracks. A welcome return of this northwest classic, I remember obsessing about Scruff early on in my music discovery and I'm proud to see after just over twenty years I wasn't wrong! - this still sound mega today! (not something that can be said about all of Matt's furtive musical steps... - ed).

TRACK LISTING

A. Sea Mammal 8:18
B1. Bass Baby 5:54
B2. Limbic Funk 5:28
C. Chicken In A Box 8:24
D1. Jazz Potato 6:03
D2. Bonce 4:58
E1. Night Time 5:58
E2. After Time 2:30
F. Crisps 6:25

Scruff's debut for Ninja Tune, and it's just one of those essential LPs for fans of quirky, jazzy upbeat downbeat grooves. Includes the massive trad-jazz-house anthem (and advert favourite) "Get A Move On", as well as "Honeydew", "Jus Jus" with Roots Manuva and the silly "Shanty Town" and "Fish".

A product of post-acid house Manchester, Mr Scruff is a complete one-off; a cheeky innovator. His debut album is a bold statement, distinctive and confident. "Keep It Unreal" oscillates wildly between opposing styles - one moment Scruff's in deep, down-tempo dinner jazz territory, the next he's in Coldcut mode, chopping out superb big beat breaks with naughty hooklines to get you pogoing. At one extreme is the wacko humour of Spandex Man, bolshi breakbeat and a hooky 1920s jazz loop that'll make you grin. And then there's the even more ridiculous "Shanty Town", with samples of a Jacknory story about a whale. At the other end of the scale, is Scruff's accomplished acid jazz - like the serene, trip-hoppy "Midnight Feast" or the smoothie cocktail number "Honeydew", with it's loungey female vocals. This man is out there, the Salvador Dali of beats and breaks.

TRACK LISTING

1. Is He Ready..... Feat. Mary Ann Hobbs 'The Breeze Blocks'
2. Spandex Man
3. Get A Move On
4. MIdnight Feast
5. Honeydew
6. Cheeky
7. So Long
8. Chipmunk
9. So You Hear?
10. Shanty Town
11. Jus Jus Feat. Roots Manuva
12. Blackpool Roll
13. Travelogue
14. Fish

Bristol's pop punk heroes deliver their debut album, it's twelve tracks of Green Day / Less Than Jake influenced pop punk with a strong melodic flavour.