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FUNK EMBASSY RECORDS

Various Artists

Groove Of ESSR II: Funk, Soul, Disco And Jazz From Estonia

Escaping the Soviet through music is a running theme for the "Groove of ESSR" compilation. Funk Embassy returns with the second volume that includes 11 tracks from 1973-1984. Some hide meaning between lines, others offer solace on the dancefloor. It's an ongoing journey to uncover these jewels and meet their makers. Majority of the tunes will be released for the first time. The 12-inch comes with a 30-page booklet that provides background stories and quotes from the artists.

The "Groove of ESSR" project has garnered attention around the globe. From the first volume released in 2019, tracks were picked up by Gilles Peterson, Mehmet Aslan, Zag Erlat and DJ Tahira to name a few. During the production of this album, two of the most influential figures in Estonian funk and soul passed on: Marju "Maryn" Kuut (1946-2022) and Tõnu Aare (1953-2021). We dedicate this album to them.

TRACK LISTING

1. Eesti TV & Raadio Estraadiorkester - Meie Aeg (Instrumental)
2. Marju Kuut & Apelsin - Maskeraad
3. Laine - Nüüd On Mul Muusika
4. Raivo Parind & Eufoonia - Hei, Päike!
5. Jaan Kumani Instrumentaalansambel - Mind Veel Ei Ole (Instrumental Short Version)
6. Collage & Apelsin - Memme Vaev
7. Magnetic Band - Liiklus
8. Ülle Ernits & Admiral - Ma Tahan Olla Siin
9. Eesti TV & Raadio Estraadiorkester - Mälestus (Short Version)
10. Teravik - Hoia Ennast Koos
11. Els Himma - Veerev Päev
12. Pirita - On See Hea (Instrumental)

Silky Steps hustles towards the scene trailblazed by Nile Rodgers, and currently held by the likes of Jungle, L'imperatrice and Parcels. The 5-piece hailing from Estonia's summer capital Pernau have their own concoction of neo-soul, nu-disco and pop-funk to offer, though. At the helm, a combo of male-female lead vocals sing about the X-rated side of life. Plentiful synths and suave basslines get all the right juices flowing. All the while a musical guest will pop in here and there to provide a sax solo, sing a ref or throw down a little rap.

The latter is especially true for their upcoming LP "Universal Language," as 2023 sees the group step up their game in a big way. Their 2nd single "Fly, Goodbye" took off as the title suggests and got its first BBC 6 airplay on the revered Cerys Matthews show. Robert Linna of Lexsoul Dancemachine lent his falsetto to the latter track, while MC Roki raps on "Falling For You" and Rahel collabs on the title-track. In total, there are 10 tracks on the album that's put out digitally and on vinyl via Funk Embassy Records - the Estonian imprint that recently won Record label of the Year at the local music industry awards.

TRACK LISTING

1. Music
2. Treasure
3. Haven
4. Falling For You (feat. MC Roki)
5. Interlude
6. Alone Together
7. Boytoy
8. I Like It, I Love It
9. Universal Language (feat. Rahel)
10. Fly, Goodbye (feat. Robert Linna)

"A Life of Its Own" is a soul and R&B album, that might just become as timeless as a Bill Withers' LP. The first single "Love Ain't The Same" enjoyed success, winning the "Song of the Year" at the Estonian Music Awards in '22. Straight to B-rotation on Jazz.fm, "No Greater Love" was released secondly. Rita Ray's sophmore album blends orchestral strings arranged by Miss Ray herself. Add a touch of Rhodes, Clavinet and a vintage sound that's authentic yet contemporary. The production duties were taken on by Future Classics. "A Life of Its Own" will be out on CD, vinyl and digitally via Funk Embassy Records.

Since her début "Old Love Will Rust" in 2019, Rita Ray has enjoyed a steady rise on the contemporary soul scene. Her songwriting, voice and grand productions in studio as well as live setting are a thing of beauty. While spurring comparisons to the likes of Aretha Franklin, Bill Withers and Duffy, one can safely say she's found her unique aesthetic. The small-town damsel's got a way to make you go through joy and pain. It was recognized by the Estonian Jazz Awards, handing over the "Young Jazz Talent of the Year" accolade to Rita in 2021. The crown jewel of Estonian R&B and soul, with her first-class band, is guaranteed to provide a journey on tape or before a crowd.

TRACK LISTING

1. Love Ain't The Same
2. No Greater Love
3. So Sweet
4. Ms. Steal-Your-Man, Pt. 1
5. Ms. Steal-Your-Man, Pt. 2
6. Sing It With Love
7. Needless To Say
8. Please Wait For Me


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