Mr Bongo keep the hits coming with a welcome reissue of Burnier & Cartier's self-titled LP, which has soared to the top of many a wantlist after appearing in many a setlist and sample-jam. A gorgeous set which touches on MPB, soul, jazz, disco and boogie, the LP has been championed by the likes of Jazzanova, Floating Points and Hunnee while Andres and KDJ and Kaytranada have all slammed it into the MPC and made good use of these exquisiste grooves. The perfect marriage of breezy South American rhythms, sunkissed melodies and smooth vocals, the album is a testament to the songwriting talents of the duo and the production and arrangement expertise of Arthur Verocai and Luis Bonfa.
Remastered for 2018 and presented in replica artwork, this Brazilian fusion gem is finally available without securing a second mortgage.

TRACK LISTING

So Tem Lugar Pra Voce
Aldeia Global
Lejos De Mi
Lembrando Ed Kleiger
Deixa Mudar
Parte Capital
Mirandolina
Ai E Que Ta
Aventura Espacial
Barranco
Europanema
Marcante

In their own words Curio Curio's sonic vision "is not straight disco, not straight samba, not strictly old-school but inspired by all of them, creating something contemporary but still nostalgic".

A modern fusion influenced as much by Gal Costa and Jorge Ben Jor as Say She She and Bala Desejo, their sound deftly plots a course all of its own. A celebration of freedom, movement, love and life, intertwined with introspective moments of reflection. Treating tradition as something alive, migratory and unresolved, the album is not simply bound by a shared love of Brazilian music, but by a deeper question that runs through every track; where does one belong when home becomes plural? As a Brazilian living in Europe, Luiza's lyrics explore themes of identity, culture, and existence. The tracks move between cities and emotional registers without settling, tracing a sense of identity that shifts rather than resolves. Songs like 'Amor Doente' and 'Mar sem Dar Pe' circle around relationships that resist clarity, while 'Menina Passarinho' captures the fear and necessity of committing to music as a path. For Luiza, deepening her commitment to music alongside years in theatre was both inevitable and difficult.

Braun's production follows a similar logic. Initial ideas were often built without obvious reference points, only later incorporating rhythmic and vocal elements that hint at Brazil without reproducing it. Analogue techniques, tape, ribbon microphones and live ensemble recording bring a tactile quality that reflects the duo's interest in process as much as outcome. Highlights include 'Bem Querer', built on an authentic samba street vibe with a super-catchy sing-along chorus, and 'Vem pra Casa' with its cosmic-tinged Brazilian boogie flavour. The album closes with 'A Cor do Meu Sonho', a quiet act of insistence. A refusal to shrink in unfamiliar environments, and a belief in the strength of difference. It is less a conclusion than a continuation, leaving the central question open. "I started to understand that I can belong to many places at once", Luiza reflects. "And that can be something to embrace". Lyrics from the song 'Raiz' translate in English to "I value a burning sun and the cold in the air. Constant change is my companion".

With Curio Curio, that idea is lived through sound, story and collaboration. A debut that feels both searching and assured, grounded in heritage yet shaped by distance.

TRACK LISTING

1. To Chegando
2. Bem Querer
3. Menina Passarinho
4. Vem pra Casa
5. Raiz
6. Vida que Entorna (Interludio)
7. Amor Doente
8. Mar sem Dar Pe
9. Canto de Calma
10. Amizade
11. A Cor do Meu Sonho

Melbourne-based vocalist, musician, and songwriter Ella Thompson is an artist whose name is being championed by some of the best in the business. She's been building a reputation as one to watch, with two standout releases on Hopestreet Recordings, 'Domino' EP in 2023 and 'Ripple On The Wing' LP in 2024, alongside a heavy touring schedule and a stacked list of support slots and collaborations. For this new 7" single, Ella collaborates with a selection of artists at the forefront of Naarm/ Melbourne's soulful DIY community. Featuring members of Surprise Chef and Karate Boogaloo, Liam McGorry from Temporary Blessings (College Of Knowledge) joins Ella as cowriter and co-producer, with go-to Melbourne engineer Henry Jenkins also producing and recording the track.

Bridging the worlds of classic and contemporary soul, Ella's songwriting is drenched in emotion and personal experience. With a timeless feel that is hard to tie to any particular period, she has crafted a sound that instantly hits deep. It's warm, tasteful and distinctly Ella. That talent has also seen her tour with Mark Ronson, and support other contemporary greats like Jalen Ngonda, Lee Fields, and Thee Sacred Souls. 'Promise to Keep' is the first taste of Ella's new material on this 7" single. An irrepressible upbeat groover that echoes mid- to- late- sixties vocal groups. That influence though never overpowers Ella's own unique creative voice or distinct sense of self. She draws from it, but the colour is all her own. The song tells a story of being carried by the current that keeps us moving, giving us courage. A commitment to oneself that speaks to action shaped by vision, and the pull of following what feels correct even when the distance is far.

The flip side finds Ella in a different mood. 'Change of Heart' is a heavy sweet-soul ballad. Rich in drama, Ella's falsetto vocals build to a stunning climax in the final section, with triumphant horns that signal the release of letting go. The lyrics reflect on temporality and impermanence, and the way moments can be missed or arrive with synchronicity. It's that bittersweet paradox of triumph and sadness, where everything contains its opposite: absence and presence, innocence and experience. The song is underpinned by a brooding production quality and atmospheric, beatheavy flavour that Surprise Chef and cinematic soul fans will relish. Mixed by Wayne Gordon (Daptone, Womack Sisters), 'Promise to Keep' and 'Change of Heart' are a glimpse of things to come from Ella Thompson. Keep an eye open for more new music incoming from this phenomenal artist at the top of her game.

TRACK LISTING

1. Promise to Keep
2. Change of Heart

Welcome to Volume 8 of the Mr Bongo Record Club series, the in-house curated compilations that give Mr Bongo a chance to share some of their favourite tracks, hard-fought finds, and unsung gems.

These are tracks that have been inspiring them at home, in the office, while DJing, and on the dancefloor. In the cross-genre spirit of the series, for Volume 8 they have selected music from the worlds of soul, boogie, disco-reggae, jazz-funk, and Latin, with a hefty chunk of beloved Brazilian music. Pulling these compilations together is always a highlight of the year, and eight volumes in, Mr Bongo feel this is one of their strongest to date.

The album's journey begins with a heartfelt epic by As Ganhadeiras de Itapua, from the Bahian town of Itapua. It's an area of Brazil that holds a special place in David 'Mr Bongo' Buttle's heart, and where he first met his dear friend, Luciano Rodrigues Dos Santos, to whose memory this compilation is dedicated to. Staying in Northern Brazil, next up is a contemporary dancefloor gem by Ubunto, a DJ and producer from Salvador, which also features As Ganhadeiras de Itapua. The raw, dusty, punchy sounds of zabumba drummer Castanheiro and the furious guitar- heavy dancer by Tyaraju & Dutra are just two more examples of the Brazilian beauties included on the compilation.

There is also a heavy dose of soul music on this volume. The Canadian-gospel sounds of Trevor Dandy, a modern-soul rarity by Wil Collins & Willpower (which has been on their list for years), and a soul- stepper masterpiece by Tommy McGee, are just a handful of the highlights. Not stopping there, Mr Bongo are incredibly proud to present an exclusive rework of The Sylvers' 'Wish That I Could Talk To You' by the legendary Kenny Dope. Kenny has excelled himself with this one, fattening up the drums while bringing more drama to the horns and strings. The song now feels more contemporary yet still stays true to its roots. Complete genius!

Elsewhere on the compilation, you'll find a cosmic reggae-not-reggae disco oddity by Tapper Zukie, a South African jazz-funk-disco groover by Mac Mathunjwa, a soughtafter Brazilian compacto by Eduardo Araujo, and a Brit- funk / boogie treasure by Powerline.

Traversing time, genre, and location, all the tracks on Volume 8 are favourites for their own unique reasons. Music will forever be a constant source of comfort, able to affect you deeply in the most meaningful ways. It's the gift that keeps giving, and there is so much more to learn, discover, and share, both old and new.

TRACK LISTING

1. As Ganhadeiras de Itapua - Mare mansa
2. Ubunto - O Vento Part. As Ganhadeiras de Itapua
3. Castanheiro - Este Samba E Meu
4. Eduardo Araujo - Madrugada
5. Tyaraju & Dutra - Pe De Foguete
6. Tema IV - Tema IV
7. Orquesta El Sabor De Nacho - Bim Bim Bom Bom "Que Se Sepa"
8. The Trinikas - Remember Me
9. Tommy McGee - Now That I Have You
10. Trevor Dandy - Is There Any Love
11. Wilfred Luckie - My Thing
12. The Sylvers - Wish That I Could Talk To You (Kenny Dope Edit)
13. K.L. Hamilton - I'm Trying
14. Wil Collins & Willpower - Anything I Can Do
15. Powerline - Watching You (Brand New Remix)
16. Mac Mathunjwa - Give Us More Love (Edit)
17. Tapper Zukie - Visions Of Love
18. Urias - Vontade De Voar

Mr Bongo presents a reissue of one of the rarest releases on the illustrious and now ultra-rare tax scam label TSG Records.

A label with a checkered past, operated by Lloyd Price and with alleged ties to boxing promoter Don King. The album in question, 'Disco Party' by Reality, is a stunning journey through '70s dancefloor-focussed funk into early proto-disco grooves. Back in mid-'70s Manhattan, Dr. Otto Gomez and a group of fellow New York musicians including Tony Dixon, Norman Drayton, Tony Dupree, Al Jones and Fred Nanton were brought in for a recording session by songwriter and producer, Billy Nichols. Laying down one of Nichols' songs and a selection of the group's own, they were paid as session musicians and thought little of it. The tapes came to the attention of Lloyd Price who struck a deal with Nichols unbeknownst to Gomez and the rest of the band. Price then pressed the album and put it out in 1976 on a newly formed subsidiary label, TSG Records, that would later be documented as one of the US tax scam labels of the '70s.

Such labels were created to exploit a loophole in the US tax system, running up inflated production costs / losses that investors or the parent label could write off against their tax bills. Releases on these labels were never intended to have commercial success. They would usually be produced in incredibly limited pressing numbers and have little to no promotion or distribution. As such many of these records instantly fell into obscurity, becoming mythical amongst DJs and record collectors. Sadly, this meant that artists like Dr. Otto Gomez and friends never had the chance for their record and their talents to shine at the time. In fact, it was only when Jazzman reached out for their 2022 reissue that Dr. Otto Gomez became aware that the album had ever been released and heard the story behind it.

'Disco Party' is a time capsule where '70s instrumental funk edges and intertwines into an early disco sound. The sessions are for the dancefloor, minimalist and groovebased. The bass and drums are at the forefront, providing the pulse of the album. Driving funky guitar licks, and a brilliant horn section weave their way in and out of the productions. Highlights include the uplifting feel- good 'Let's Party People', the early disco swagger of 'Reality', and 'Disco Party (Let's Have A)' with its wah-wah groove and percussion break, which could easily have found its home on a Blaxploitation film soundtrack of the period.

It's not just rarity that makes this record so sought after, but rather the fact that it is a superb example of dancefloor-focussed mid '70s funk and disco.

TRACK LISTING

1. Reality
2. Road 
3. Disco Party (Let's Have A) 
4. Welcome 
5. Movin' & Groovin' 
6. Let's Party People
7. You Keep Me Holdin' On
8. Clap & Hustle

Luke Una introduces a new series of original, dancefloor-focused productions on his E Soul Cultura imprint, in partnership with Mr Bongo.

True to the label's ethos, the series pushes sonic boundaries into deeper, more expansive territories, delivering forward- thinking music for discerning dancefloors. The first release brings together UK garage royalty Zed Bias and the underground talents of MJK , as we're served up a double hit of hypnotic, futuristic techno and house.

Zed Bias is an artist that needs little introduction. The main moniker of Manchester's Dave Jones, over the past 25+ years he's cemented himself as a crucial figure in UK garage and dance music as a whole. He's remixed hundreds of artists including Whitney Houston, The Streets and Azymuth, been nominated for a MOBO award and, through his more experimental take on 2 step garage, helped lay the foundations for the development of bass music into dubstep.

For this new release he teams up with Ghanaian- British producer and DJ, MJK . Earmarked as 'One To Watch' by DJ Mag, and similarly championed by Mixmag, MJK's sound draws from the worlds of bass, grime, house and beyond.

Opening track 'Keep On Livin'' sees Zed Bias and MJK coming together in the studio. Passed to Luke by his manager If Khan, it's a sonic alchemy rooted in black heart soul music yet seen through a prism of bass futurism. A heads-down cut of driving techno, with nods to Detroit, and firm UK foundations, that is both bass- heavy and otherworldly. It's a simple yet effective, entrancing combination of percussion, bass, and keys, peppered with old soul samples that lock you into a groove and never let go. A track built for dancefloors big or small.

On the flip, MJK steps up solo with 'Late to Camberwell', diving into deeper, late-night territory. Known for his three-deck DJ mixing style, MJK has a real understanding of how to layer elements to keep people moving. A swirling cosmic feel reverberates through 'Late to Camberwell'. Drum hits, shakers and synth loops are weaved together in style, creating a dose of deep, immersive rolling house. In Luke's own words, "I found it very exciting to hear a new artist create such a beautiful sound that reminded me of Detroit and Artwork's late '90s techno alias Grain. It's stripped-back raw house music of the highest calibre".

TRACK LISTING

1. Zed Bias x MJK - Keep On Livin'
2. MJK - Late To Camberwell

THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2026 EXCLUSIVE AND WILL BE AVAILABLE INSTORE ON SATURDAY APRIL 18TH ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

IF THERE ARE ANY REMAINING COPIES THEY WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE ONLINE AT 8PM (BST) ON MONDAY APRIL 20th).

Shy Girl In Dub! is released on Green Vinyl and includes a sticker sheet, all exclusive to this RSD release.

Following the release of Hollie Cook’s fifth studio album, Shy Girl, and her return to Mr Bongo 15 years after her debut, the album’s producer Ben McKone reconstructs the recordings into a newly cut dubwise release. Made for Record Store Day 2026, Ben strips back the productions in vintage dub reggae style. Crafted on an analogue mixing desk, he weaves in delays, echoes, and reverb to push Hollie’s trademark sound into a hypnotising, rhythm and bass-heavy, electronic realm.

THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2026 EXCLUSIVE AND WILL BE AVAILABLE INSTORE ON SATURDAY APRIL 18TH ON A FIRST COME FIRST SERVED BASIS, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

IF THERE ARE ANY REMAINING COPIES THEY WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE ONLINE AT 8PM (BST) ON MONDAY APRIL 20th).

Exclusive to Record Store Day 2026 & curated by DJ Koco the Cuban 45 Clamshell Boxset includes 5x7" singles.

Two years since DJ KOCO aka SHIMOKITA curated his sold-out Mr Bongo Brazil 45 boxset, he is back with another Record Store Day special, this time turning his attention to Cuba.

Testament to Cuba’s vast and vibrant musical landscape, DJ KOCO has cherry-picked some of the finest recordings to emanate from the country, spanning a wide range of styles and rhythms. Yet what ties all the tracks on this boxset together, is a hip hop sensibility and thirst for a breaks-heavy, danceable energy which radiates through DJ KOCO’s masterful DJ sets.

Delivering the second sermon in their Disco Gospel series, Chicago's Sadar Bahar & Marc Davis hand-pick and re-edit two more under-the-radar disco/ gospel fusion tracks for the modern dancefloor.

Up first, Myrna Summers 'So Much to Live For' channels that straight from the heart passion and collective joy that gospel embodies. Bursting with uplifting lyrics, scintillating organ melodies, and an infectious sing-along spirit, Marc and Sadar give it a club-ready DJ edit, extending it for maximum dancefloor deliverance.

The B side sees the duo work their magic on, 'Lifted Me Higher'. Written by Kevin Yancy and taken from the Yancy Family's 1989 album From One Christian Family to Another, it features vocals from siblings Kevin, Judy, and Rev. Darryl Yancy, along with Lois Scott. The all-star team of Chicago musicians includes Sherwin (Butch) Yancy on organ, Michael Wade on piano and synthesizer, and Richard Gibbs (longtime accompanist for Aretha Franklin) on piano and bass. With a soulful boogie flavour, dripping in slap bass and '80s synthlines, Marc and Sadar rework the intro so it rides out on a section of delectable instrumental grooves, before letting the glorious vocals hit home.

Both revered selectors and producers, Marc and Sadar are integral parts of Chicago's underground music scene, sharing the city's spirit with the world. Through his own label, Black Pegasus, and the Chi Talo series, Marc has become an in- demand DJ known for his raw and eclectic sets. He joins forces with good friend, DJ's DJ and Soul In The Hole head Sadar Bahar, whose name regularly tops the bill at some of the finest clubs and festivals around the globe.

Digging deep once again, the pair serve up two certified secret weapons from their renowned collections. Finding that sweet spot that drew out the most uplifting, powerful, and danceable elements of both gospel and disco, they shine a light on two beauties from Myrna Summers and The Yancy Family. Tweaked and re- edited with style and consideration, they re-work the tracks with DJs and dancers in mind.

TRACK LISTING

1. Myrna Summers - So Much To Live For (Sadar Bahar & Marc Davis Edit)
2. The Yancy Family - Lifted Me Higher (Sadar Bahar & Marc Davis Edit)

Named after a vibrant Brazilian songbird, Curio Curio consists of singer, lyricist, and actress Luiza Monteiro, based in Austria, and producer and musician Dustin Braun from Germany. Together, the duo brings a fresh voice and a twist on MPB, taking influences from 1970s Brazil and blending them into a modern fusion of psychedelic, MPB, disco, and samba. 

Curio Curio's vocalist, Luiza Monteiro, was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and raised listening to the rich sounds of MPB. She started taking classical singing lessons weekly by the age of 14, and later developed a career in acting, skills of which she brings with her into her songwriting. You may be familiar with Dustin's production through his recent collaborations with the Turkish artist Peki Momes on Mocambo Records, or by his earlier incarnations, including a neo-soul release on Sichtexot and projects with Village Live Records and HHV's record label. His music has a tangible analogue warmth and a feeling of a real band performing live. For this 7-inch release, 'Bem Querer' ('Beloved' in English) takes the A side. In it, Luiza calls a missed love to come close and dance with her. Even without an understanding of Portuguese, this feeling and energy radiates throughout the production; one of partying together, loving each other, living in ecstasy, feeling pleasure, and freedom. Built on an authentic samba street vibe with a super catchy sing- along chorus, that collective, carnival energy comes in part due to the choir that Dustin and Luiza assembled. A group of Brazilian friends, some of whom Dustin met whilst DJing in Leipzig, joined together in the studio. Half of them were non- professional singers, bringing that organic
atmosphere of Rio's streets to the recording.

The B- side 'Amor Doente' has a more bitter- sweet taste; the song speaks playfully about a relationship that goes on without really developing. Both parties cannot fully commit to each other, but they are also unable to end it. The production, however, has a delicious loose funk groove, sun-soaked and sultry. Dustin wrote the instrumental with Lucy Liebe, who joins on bass, guitar, synths, and trumpet, with Max Lobner also featuring on trumpet. A track that is equally adept at warming up a dancefloor as it is closing out a night.

TRACK LISTING

1. Bem Querer
2. Amor Doente

With two deeply cherished compilations already in the bag, Luke Una steps up for the third volume in his É Soul Cultura series on Mr Bongo. A love letter to the dancefloor and its power to unite people from all corners of society amid growing division and extremist politics. Genre-spanning in nature, the 15 tracks travel between cosmic soul, boogie, proto-house, slo-mo technoid grooves, drum machine afro, astral bass-bugging futurism, jazz funk, dance, and disco. Each having the ability to move the body as much as the heart.

From his formative years in Sheffield to co-founding Manchester’s much-fabled Electric Chair with Justin Crawford, through to helming the iconic LGBTQ institutions of Homoelectric / Homobloc, Luke has spent 40 years immersed in dance music. His latest outlet, É Soul Cultura, has grown from a label to a globe-spanning events series with Luke holding residencies and embarking on tours across the world from Japan and Australia to America and Europe.

“For me, the dancefloor was never about a one-dimensional, thudding, 130 BPM beat only. It's a much more dynamic, broader vision than that. I cut my teeth in an era where a 100 BPM record had as much impact, excitement, and energy as a 134 BPM dancefloor jazz funk or techno record”, Luke mentions. É Soul Cultura Volume 3 is the perfect embodiment of that notion: “It’s about four decades in the trenches playing dance music, the late-night afters, the shebeens, the basements, warehouse parties, the eight-hour journeys in East London, through to festival sets at Houghton and We Out Here. It’s music unconstrained by genre or tempo and more about making your body move”.

But this isn’t simply a collection of disparate dance tracks; they carry meaning and soul. “It’s less about escapism, more about reconnection. My experience of post-covid has been the coming together of all the clans in various clubs and gatherings. A reaction to a very toxic world out there, where the aggro rhythms of division have sought to divide us, and people don't meet as often. The coming back together face-to-face in clubs has encouraged a real love in the air, there's a real togetherness and collective spirit”.

Opening up the compilation is a track that channels that very message, the transcendental, soul-rousing Harris & Orr ‘Spread Love’. Joining the dots from there, to the low-slung deep house closer of Fatdog ‘Remember’, you’ll find electronic drum machine Nigerian funk, sitting side by side with dancefloor Cape Verdean brilliance, a post-punk cover of Fela Kuti, rubbing shoulders with cosmic electro, and an Una-championed, 8-minute, kickless DJ Harvey remix. There’s jazz funk in various guises moving from boogie synth to astral travelling, slo-mo acidic raw techno, and a ‘79 soul stepper, alongside swirling percussive Italo disco and tribal-charged house. All infused with an innate ability to bring people together.

As society becomes increasingly fractured, É Soul Cultura Volume 3’s message is more than movement. It’s about dance music’s power to unify people from all walks of life and break down the barriers that divide us

TRACK LISTING

1. Harris & Orr - Spread Love
2. Terry And Deep South - Trying To Get By
3. Toshiyuki Honda - Burnin' Waves
4. Igna Igwebuike - Disco Bomp
5. Janette Renee - What's On Your Mind (Super Club Remix)
6. Grupo Serenata - Sodade, Tem Pena D’Mim
7. Vital Disorders - Zombie
8. Alphonsus Idigo - Flight 505
9. DJ Food - Peace (Harvey's 30 Something Mix)
10. Man Jumping - In The Jungle
11. Stars - Dancin’ People
12. Gaucho - Dance Forever (Club Version)
13. 49th Floor - Night Passage (Bongo Mix)
14. Orion Agassi - Desacato
15. Fatdog - Remember (Ft. CJ Raine)

Ricardo Eddy Martinez's Expreso Ritmico from 1978 is a prized album fusing funk, disco, and orchestrated influences with Afro-Cuban percussion, Latin breaks, and lush vocal harmonies.

Whilst maintaining its distinctive Cuban identity, Expreso Ritmico is one of the more American / Western-influenced Cuban titles of the time drawing inspiration from jazz funk, disco, and library music. The album was directed, written, and orchestrated by keyboardist and drummer Ricardo Eddy Martinez, who was also the mastermind behind the orchestration of the Los Reyes 73 album (that was recently reissued by Mr Bongo). Martinez would later go on to work with international musicians and singers such as Gloria Estefan, Jose Feliciano, Chick Corea, and many more, whilst also working as a sound engineer in the US. Produced by Adolfo Pichardo, who worked on much of Areito's output, Expreso Ritmico is packed with gold. The opening title track carries a loose, breezy Latin- disco- funk vibe that breaks into a brilliant Afro- Cuban workout. 'Que La Tristeza Se Fue' was expertly sampled and looped by Jazzanova on their 2008 song 'Look What You Are Doing To Me, featuring Phonte from the hip hop group Little Brother.

Elsewhere, 'Tambo Iya' has an Afro- funk, Soul Makossa- esque groove, while tracks such as 'Te Quedas', 'Mi Conga Es La Que Es' and 'La 132' run with a heavy pulsating Latin-funk sound. Head to the sultry psych funk of 'Este Tumbao' for a spacey journey that blends and morphs through genres.

A record that was ahead of its time, Expreso Ritmico is a superb and unique album that merges western influence with Cuban flair. It comes housed in a replica of its original Cuban sleeve design.

TRACK LISTING

Expreso Ritmico
Tambo Iya
Yeya Son
Te Quedas
Que La Tristeza Se Fue
Mi Conga Es La Que Es
Mas No Me Falta Fe
La 132
Este Tumbao
De Mis Razones

Mr Bongo running hot right from the off in 2026!

Stepping up next in Mr Bongo 12" Edits series, they've invited another legend of the game, DJ Nature, to craft a special EP of signature edits.

Following editions by Dan Tyler and Nick The Record, Luke Una, and Danny Krivit, DJ Nature selects four prime cuts spanning modern soul, psychedelic funk, boogie, and leftfield disco, giving each his trademark tweak for today's dancefloor.

In 1989, Bristol-born DJ Nature moved to New York, a city where he knew his raw and textured aesthetic would be more appreciated at the time. He immersed himself in the NY scene, frequently attending underground house and disco clubs to hear pioneers such as Larry Levan (The Choice), Louie Vega (Sound Factory Bar), and Tony Humphries (Zanzibar). That same year, being surrounded by a wealth of underground dance music, DJ Nature set up an export company to supply the Japanese market. "I have had a connection with Japan for over 40 years, beginning when I visited as part of Ray Petri's Buffalo fashion house as a DJ. From there, I linked up with the Major Force crew and others," he explains.

Having already been a record collector for 20 years, DJ Nature launched his own label, Ruff Disco Records, in 1992, releasing productions under his early moniker, Natureboy. Since then, Nature has gone on to become an underground DJ/ producer legend himself, touring the world and releasing records on esteemed labels such as Golf Channel Recordings, Jazzy Sport, Hot Biscuit Recordings, and Futureboogie Recordings.

Reflecting his love of raw, independent disco, jazz fusion, and early house music, DJ Nature has chosen four tracks from the Mr Bongo archive that he felt had club-ready production ripe for an edit. First up, is an extended rework of the ultra-rare Chicago modern soul/disco joint 'Straight Forward (Non-Stop)' by P.J. City from 1986. Staying true and respectful to the original, DJ Nature tweaks and extends it so it feels like a longer take lifted from the original recording session. Next is a sublime version of Cuban band Grupo Los Yoyi's 1977 track 'Del Copacabana A 34'. Here, Nature extends and enhances the song, looping the more driving, hypnotic, spacey sections to let the energy brew and bubble to boiling point.

On the B- side, DJ Nature revamps a lesser- known gem from the Elite Records catalogue. Originally produced by Andy Sojka, Antoniou's pulsating 1982 electronic disco groover 'Sound On Sound' is transformed into a peak- time cosmic boogie whirlwind. Rounding off the EP, he turns to the mysterious Marxist Love Disco Ensemble's 2022 album 'MLDE', re-editing the quirky leftfield disco winner 'Dust' into a more DJ-friendly club track.

TRACK LISTING

1. P.J. City - Straight Forward (Non-Stop) (DJ Nature Re-Edit)
2. Grupo Los Yoyi - Del Copacabana A 34 (DJ Nature Re-Edit)
3. Antoniou - Sound On Sound (DJ Nature Re-Edit)
4. Marxist Love Disco Ensemble - Dust (DJ Nature Re-Edit)

14 years on, this timeless debut produced by Prince Fatty fuses Hollie's self- coined 'tropical pop' sound with her passion for reggae and lovers rock singers such as Janet Kay and Phyllis Dillon and classic '60s girl groups. An album that radiates with highlights, it features what would become one of Hollie's most popular songs, the super catchy, sun-soaked 'Milk & Honey' that has racked up over 46 million streams on Spotify alone.

Elsewhere, there are distinctive reggae cover versions of the Shangri-Las '(Remember) Walkin' In The Sand', transformed from a dark, emotive cut into one filled with a flavour of hope, alongside a signature new spin on Rachel Sweet's amazing, laidback 'It's So Different Here'. Take to the bass- heavy 'Sugar Water (Look At My Face)' for a dubleaning workout and look to the singles 'That Very Night' and 'Body Beat' to further feel the synergy between Hollie and Prince Fatty, showcasing songs that are inspired and influenced by the past but with a definitive foot in the present. Adding further weight to this iconic debut, there are a talented array of musicians featuring across the record, including Omar, Dennis Bovell, George Decker (The Pioneers), Horseman, Style Scott, Black Steel, Mutant Hi-Fi and more.

Along with Prince Fatty at the controls and Hollie on the mic, together they crafted a classic sound that feels as fresh (but also as vintage) as it did fourteen years ago. A modern masterpiece in its genre, and the start of Hollie's journey to becoming the contemporary queen of the lovers rock sound.

TRACK LISTING

Milk And Honey
That Very Night
Walking In The Sand
Cry (Disco Mix) Ft.Horseman
It's So Different Here
Sugar Water (Look At My Face) Ft. Horseman
Shadow Kissing
Used To Be
Body Beat

Brazil is a treasure trove of inspirational music from the past, present, and future. Here we head back to 1976 for a one-of-a-kind kaleidoscopic journey, melding Brazilian regional rhythms with funk, rock, soul, and psychedelia by the married couple Eduardo Araujo and Silvinha. A cult classic and beloved record for some of the scene's biggest DJs including Floating Points, it was further immortalised when Madlib sampled 'Opanige' for his track 'Sao Paulo'.

Singers Eduardo Araujo and Silvinha Araujo had successful careers in Brazil beginning in the 1960s. Eduardo broke through with the rock-infused Jovem Guarda hit 'O Bom'. Stepping into more soulful territory, Eduardo released 'A Onda E Boogaloo' in 1969, produced by a young Tim Maia and followed it up with a number of other notable releases. Also part of the Jovem Guarda movement, Silvinha recorded a string of excellent albums and numerous 7" compactos for Odeon and RCA. In 1976, the duo set forth the landmark underground album 'Sou Filho Desse Chao', complete with its eye-catching psychedelic cover art by Gustavo Matula and Jan Matula. The album featured a heavyweight line up of musicians, including accordionist supreme Dominguinhos, the drummer Dirceu Medeiros, who played on the first Os Mutantes album, and members of the esteemed bands Banda Black Rio and Som Nosso.

'Sou Filho Desse Chao' was inspired by the pair's travels to Salvador, Bahia. Eduardo was influenced by the Brazilian culture of the region and wanted to incorporate and capture the sounds of capoeira, Forro, and candomble into the album. Here we have the traditional African-Brazilian culture of Northern Brazil fusing with the contemporary commercial music of Rio and Sao Paulo's Tropicalia, MPB, psych-rock, and Black Rio movements. Uniting the cultures, Eduardo and Silvinha managed to combine these genres seamlessly. It's an album full of highlights, with the Tim Maiaesque funk of 'O Tempo Que Esse Tempo Tem' laced with its rock tones, sitting side by side with the accordion-driven 'Sou Filho Desse Chao' and rolling groove of 'Manda Embora A Tristeza'. Elsewhere the elegant trippy psych- funk of 'Capoeira' sees Eduardo and Silvinha effortlessly trading vocal duties. The record would also reach a new audience outside of Brazil when one of the standout tracks, the highly original spacey 'Opanige', was sampled by Madlib for his track 'Sao Paulo'.

Even though on release it was not a commercial success, Sou Filho Desse Chao has since found its place as an iconic and treasured LP.

TRACK LISTING

1. Sou Filho Desse Chao
2. Circulo Vicioso
3. Girassol
4. Capoeira
5. O Tempo Que Esse Tempo Tem
6. Manda Embora A Tristeza
7. Misturando Rock Com Baiao
8. Ter O Que Eu Tenho Sem Voce
9. Capoeira 
10. Opanige

In 2012, Prince Fatty produced a signature dub reworking of tracks from Hollie Cook's debut 2012 LP, plus a selection of other choice dub-infused
covers.

Mr Bongo now presents a fresh repress on blue vinyl of this classic album.

In the tradition of vintage reggae albums, renowned producer Prince Fatty took to the controls and dubbed out Hollie Cook's self-titled debut album from 2011. In trademark dub fashion, Prince Fatty strips back Hollie's classic reggae and tropical pop productions, adding in extra bass alongside delays, tape echoes, and reverbs to Hollie's captivating vocals. The resulting versions give the songs space to breathe, whilst adding in a weighty, heads-down element to the productions.

As Prince Fatty mentions, "The dub versions showcase real tape echoes, heavy spring reverbs and alternate instrumental elements such as melodica, percussion or horns that were hidden in the vocal versions. All the dubs are mixed live in my studio in the same Rub a Dub style as was made famous in '70s Jamaica by King Tubby and others, i.e, not with the use of computers for automation and endless digital nonsense but with fingers, late night vibes and re-arranged with a razor blade!".

In addition to the tracks featured from the debut album, this dub release features mixes of Hollie Cook and Prince Fatty's cover version of The Whispers' disco classic 'And The Beat Goes On' and 'For Me You Are Dub', a ska cover of an old Andrews Sisters' classic. Alongside that, there's a delicious adaptation of the Shangri- Las' legendary record 'Walking in the Sand', and 'Baby', a revamp of the heavily requested anthem, in collaboration with French synth-pop outfit, The Shoes. 

Thirteen years on, this superb dub album sounds as quintessential and authentic as ever.

TRACK LISTING

1. Shadow Dub
2. Used To Be Dub
3. That Very Night Dub
4. And The Beat Goes On Dub
5. Crying Dub
6. For Me You Are Dub
7. Milk & Honey Dub
8. Baby Dub
9. Walking In The Sand Dub
10. Sugarwater Dub

Hollie Cook's sensational second album, 'Twice', originally released in 2014, gets a 2025 repress on transparent green vinyl.

Produced by Prince Fatty, 'Twice' is a natural progression from Hollie's self-titled debut. It's an absorbing blend of her trademark reggae and tropical pop sound, enriched with the dubby undertones of Prince Fatty's production. Drawing on a broad range of influences, there's sweeping string arrangements courtesy of the Macedonian Radio Symphonic Orchestra and choir, Brazilian- influenced percussion, and disco touches. At various points across the album, Hollie is joined by legendary musicians Dennis Bovell, Omar, George Dekker, and Winston Francis.

'Twice' is packed with highlights, showcasing a sophisticated evolution in Hollie's sound. The cinematic strings of the Macedonian Radio Symphonic Orchestra lace through and lift tracks such as the rolling 'Desdemona', the rootsy 'Postman' with its bumping bassline and Caribbean steel drum melodies, and the hazy, digi-dub influenced title track. Elsewhere, the dreamy yet melancholic 'Looking For Real Love' sees Hollie's soulful vocals shine atop a blend of lovers rock and dub energy, whilst 'Superfast' has the air of a vintage reggae classic.

A unique and individual contemporary classic from reggae's orator of love, Hollie Cook, ripe to be rediscovered by a new audience.

TRACK LISTING

1. Ari Up
2. 99
3. Desdemona
4. Tiger Balm
5. Postman
6. Looking For Real Love
7. Superfast
8. Twice
9. Win Or Lose

A year and a half after the release of their Latin Grammy-nominated album, 'Me Chama De Gato Que Eu Sou Sua', the award-winning Brazilian trailblazer, Ana Frango Eletrico, returns with two new songs: 'A Sua Diversao' and 'Nao Tem Nada Nao'.

Both tracks are the result of a remarkable collaboration with legendary Brazilian artist Marcos Valle, creating a dialogue between generations.

First up, Ana drops the laid- back sultry Brazilian- funk gem 'A Sua Diversao', written alongside Tuca Monteiro and co- produced by Guilherme Lirio. With a breezy '80s tinged feel, the sumptuous bassline, funk strutting guitars and cosmic synths are the perfect match to Ana's instantly recognisable vocal tones. A track with a nostalgic air but a contemporary flair, it includes guest backing vocals by three of Brazil's finest, Dora Morelenbaum, Marcos Valle, and Patricia Alvi.

Next, a firm favourite from their live show, Ana reinterprets and re-records a 1973 Marcos Valle classic 'Nao Tem Nada Nao', written collaboratively with Eumir Deodato and Joao Donato. During Ana's tour across 11 countries and over 40 sold-out shows, this cover quickly became a fan favourite. As audiences began tagging Valle in Instagram stories, he showed his support by reposting Ana's performances. This online exchange blossomed into a real-life connection when the two artists met at a benefit concert for Rio Grande do Sul and the idea of a collaboration materialised.

Putting their own distinctive spin on the recording, Ana duets with Valle, who features on vocals and Rhodes. As the track progresses it morphs seamlessly into a reimagination of Crystal Water's anthemic 'Gypsy Woman (She's Homeless)' from 1991. This inspired yet unlikely combination blends exquisitely and is a perfect distillation of Ana's energetic and absorbing live presence.

TRACK LISTING

1. A Sua Diversao
2. Nao Tem Nada Nao

Woven with tight grooves, beautiful vocals and catchy melodies, 'Shy Girl' hears singer and songwriter Hollie Cook revel in her contemporary lovers rock sound, more confident and open to vulnerability than ever before.

A sun-drenched exploration of love in all its guises, 'Shy Girl' tells stories of the magical and the melancholy, the heart-lifting and heart-breaking, across 12 luscious, analogue reggae compositions - the culmination of a soft- hued and instantly recognisable "tropical pop" sound that Cook has made her own. Put together across three years and four cities - from LA and NYC, to Vejer de la Frontera in Spain and Cook's hometown London - Shy Girl was written with long-time collaborators, The General Roots Band, and features a contribution from legendary dub MC Horseman, who lends his voice to the album's first single 'Night Night'.

The album opens with the title track 'Shy Girl', a buoyant and elastic slice of lovers rock that was written in a moment of spontaneous intuition, and bubbles with a charisma and positivity that Cook radiates. "I'm not a natural show-off," Cook explains. "The 'Shy Girl' theme is me. It's just about being my most vulnerable self and being as true to the music that I Iove as possible." It is this honesty which shines throughout, from the chugging deep dub of 'Frontline', complete with raking electric guitar lines, to the bittersweet roots ballad 'We Share Love', which closes out the album.

It's clear to see that Cook's songwriting draws on a lifetime of musical influences and inspirations. From her father, Sex Pistols drummer Paul Cook's record collection and touring with post-punk icon Ari Up's The Slits, to her love for strong female-led pop music and the bassweight of London's sound system culture. Enamoured with the music of Janet Kay and Phyllis Dillon, 'Shy Girl' represents a homecoming and a coming-of-age for Hollie Cook, distilling and refining a shimmering reggae sound that will capture your heart, as it first captured hers.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: A huge sounding suite of cosmic dub, smooth lovers rock and deep grooves, drawing on classic reggae but pushing the boundaries into more experimental dubby cuts. A beautifully balanced affair, and all topped with Cook's wonderfully silky overtones.

TRACK LISTING

1. Shy Girl
2. Ooh Baby
3. Rockaway
4. Night Night
5. Holding On
6. In The Pictures
7. Frontline
8. Take Me In Your Arms
9. Crying Wolf
10. River Runs Deep
11. Hello Operator
12. We Share Love

Following Mr Bongo's reissue of Studio Rio's exquisite Brazilian-infused take on Bill Withers' 'Lovely Day', which was one of the standout hits from last summer, we shine a light on another of their superb remakes

Masterminded and produced by the German, Grammy award- winning Berman Brothers, and using the same all-star cast behind the Bill Withers' reinterpretation, they put a joyous Brazilian twist on the Marvin Gaye classic 'Sexual Healing'. Rich in positivity and a pure end-of-the-night classic, this is another surefire winner to light up any occasion.

A project born out of Christian & Frank Berman's, aka the Berman Brothers, passion for Brazilian music, they had wondered what some of the all-time classic US soul songs would sound like if they had been recorded in Rio de Janeiro with the best Brazilian musicians. "The idea took root in the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro. Beyond the city's main carnival, countless neighbourhood block parties pulse with live samba drumming, colourful costumes, and a joyful mix of freedom, music, and cultural expression. The goal was to capture this spirit and channel it into Gaye's timeless hit," explain the Berman Brothers.

Heading to Rio in 2013, the brothers assembled a select team of top- level Brazilian musicians including many sidemen to one of Brazil's most influential composers, Tom Jobim. They brought in Torcuato Mariano, renowned for his work with Djavan and Gilberto Gil, to arrange the songs, drawing inspiration from classic '60s / '70s Brazilian samba recordings for this new remake. Another addition was Pretinho da Serrinha, one of Brazil's most acclaimed samba musicians, who worked with Seu Jorge, Caetano Veloso, and Lulu Santos. His masterful percussion and cavaquinho playing gave the track its irresistible summer energy.

Having spoken to Sony about their idea, they were given access to the multitrack tapes, meaning they could present Marvin's original vocal take with this reimagined Brazilian flavour. "Our goal was to create an authentic samba recording to accompany Marvin Gaye's vocal performance. We wanted to honour the original while creating something fresh - hoping people would feel as if the song had been recorded this way from the very beginning".

Remoulding Gaye's iconic lovers' anthem from 1982, the brothers flipped 'Sexual Healing' into a joy-filled, smouldering samba-driven beauty. It's a breezy, light-hearted remake, with Marvin's sublime soul delivery sitting perfectly amidst the shuffling cavaquinho and cuica groove. Uplifting horn stabs, building melodies, and heartfelt harmonies elevate the song to an ecstatic climax.

Now pressed to 45 for the first time, with the instrumental on the B-side, this single is the perfect cut to ignite the party or as that feel-good closer that will send everyone home on a high.

TRACK LISTING

Sexual Healing (Studio Rio Version)
Sexual Healing (Studio Rio Instrumental Version)

Presenting a joyous double dose of Brazilian pifano magic by Joao do Pife,
taken from his iconic Folclore Alagoano LP and pressed for the first time on
7" vinyl.

The infectious, uplifting energy of the instrumental track 'Garoto Do Pife' has been a dancefloor weapon for revered selectors such as Gilles Peterson, Cliffy and the Mr Bongo DJs.

The pifano, pifaro or pife, which creates the distinctive melodies in these tracks, is a simple seven-hole woodwind instrument from the Northeast region of Brazil. Often made out of bamboo or taquara wood, they are rich in folkloric music tradition and paired with percussion instruments to form the Bandas de Pifanos groups, which originated from the Northeastern states of the country. "Pifeiros" such as Joao do Pife, Edmilson do Pifano, and Carlos Malta brought the pifano into a wider public eye through their albums and vinyl recordings.

A part of pifano maestro Joao do Pife's rich legacy, these two mesmerizing and timeless tracks originate from his sought-after 1975 LP 'Folclore Alagoano', released on the Tropicana label. Born Joao Alfredo Marques dos Santos in 1943, in Riacho das Almas, Joao do Pife became an ambassador of Northern Brazilian culture and folklore through his music, which placed the pifano centre stage.

For this 7" issue, Mr Bongo have curated two of their favourite tracks from the album, 'Garoto Do Pife' and 'Homenagem a Ludugero', that exude a driving and joyous dancefloor energy. With lively accordion and organ accompaniments that weave around Joao do Pife's sublime pifano playing, they channel a folk spirit that will resonate deep within your soul.

As inspiration for the picture sleeve, Mr Bongo have adapted the original cover photo art for this 7 inch issue. Joao do Pife's music, which is housed within, will sweep you away to Northeastern Brazil in an instant

TRACK LISTING

1. Garoto Do Pife
2. Homenagem A Ludugero

Beleza. Mas agora a gente faz o que com isso? which translates to "Beauty. But now what do we do with it?", was produced at home by Rubel and reconnects with his acoustic side: the idea of predominantly using simply vocals, guitar, and strings. A bossa nova and MPB-leaning body of work at its core, the album is a deeply personal and introspective journey, with the focus directed at the beautiful, simple essence of the songs.

Comprising seven original compositions penned by Rubel, the album also contains two majestic covers. 'A la Ventana, Carolina' by El David Aguilar is reworked into Portuguese by Rubel under the title 'A Janela, Carolina' with the air of a long- lost classic. To close out the album, Rubel puts his distinctive spin on Radiohead's 'Reckoner', with the revered Brazilian maestro Arthur Verocai adding to the beautiful, melancholic textures through his string and horn arrangements.

The new record brings listeners back to Rubel's origins, focusing on an intimacy and immediacy through voice and guitar that were unveiled on his debut LP Pearl from 2015, and refined on 2018's Casas. The result is a personal and revealing repertoire that contrasts with his last album, the bold, innovative, and collaboratively focused As Palavras Vol. 1 & 2 from 2023.

With this fourth album, Rubel is becoming one of the key writers and performers of his generation, on a trajectory heading up to the heights of Joao Gilberto, Jorge Ben, Caetano Veloso, and the classic Brazilian songbook. He has managed to achieve that rare balance of appealing to both the mainstream and the underground in one celestial and cinematic swoop.

TRACK LISTING

Feiticeiro Gozador
A Janela, Carolina
Ouro
Azul, Bebe
Pergunta Ao Tempo
Noite De Reveillon
Carta De Maria
Praticar A Teimosia
Reckoner

Having worked together on his 2024 album 'Colours & Light', Project Gemini aka Paul Osborne joins forces once again with Wendy Martinez, French singer and composer, and also part of renowned psych-girl group Gloria on a new collaborative EP

Landing on Mr Bongo, 'Time Stands Still / Le temps s'arrete' is a sonic exploration that shows a shared love of the progressive music emanating out of France in the '60s and '70s and the celebrated flm soundtrack composers of the time.

A more melodic and romantic excursion than Paul's previous recordings, this EP marries his richly textured, cinematic psych rock with Martinez's captivating vocal presence. A body of work born during the period Paul was fnishing up his last LP 'Colours & Light', he penned an album's worth of instrumental library-style music and had the idea of having Wendy add vocals and lyrics to a selection of them. The instrumental record got scrapped, but thankfully 'Time Stands Still' grew out of it.

Paul was a fan of Wendy's work as both a solo artist and in the band Gloria, and her inclusion on the Project Gemini tracks 'Entre chien et loup' & 'Extra Nuit' showed a clear synergy to their musical approaches and sounds. For 'Time Stands Still' he sent over instrumental tracks one by one, with Wendy taking time to fnd melodies and French poetry she was happy with and returning her ideas from her home just outside of Lyon.

Drawing inspiration from French soundtrack composers such as Francois de Roubaix, Frances Lai and Michel Colombier, as well as French female artists including Leonie and Laurence Vanay, these productions are a contemporary love letter to this sound, not a homage. Mixing psych, folk, chanson, and French new wave, it's music that pulls you in deeper, with groove, grit and passion at its core.

'Je n'ai plus peur' kicks things off with a sultry energy. It's a psych-funk production drenched in attitude, swagger, and edge, which nods to the left- feld side of Serge Gainsbourg's music. Elsewhere, 'Ame contre ame' feels like the opener from a forgotten new-wave flm, managing to be at both beautiful yet sinister and longing. 'The Crawler' could be incidental music from the same flm, with Wendy using her voice as an instrument layering the backing track as Paul's bass takes centre stage. The ghostly spoken word of 'Ce qui est intact' echoes a funky version of what the Theatre du Chene Noir d'Avignon may have recorded. A transportive journey 'Time Stands Still' is nostalgic yet new in the same smoke-flled breath. Fuzzed-up guitars and driving basslines meld with folk-leaning organs and mellotron vibrations to give that eerie, otherworldly edge. All of which are seasoned by the sensuous, layered vocal tones of Wendy Martinez, alongside crisp drums from Tony Coote and considered percussive touches by Paul Elliot.

TRACK LISTING

1. Je N'ai Plus Peur
2. Ame Contre Ame
3. Crawler
4. Notre Chambre
5. Ce Qui Est Intact
6. Ame Contre Ame (reprise)

You may be familiar with the hypnotic, entrancing tones of Ibarra's vocals through his work with the Latin Grammy award- winning, four- piece, Bala Desejo and the band Donica. He has also toured with the musical titan, Milton Nascimento, performing guitar and vocals, which is quite the honour and a testament to Ibarra's craft. As a solo artist, he has performed headline solo shows in Japan, Portugal and the US, as well as recently completing a support tour with the great, Seu Jorge.

'AFIM' is comprised of eight tracks, featuring Ze's own compositions as well as cover versions of tracks by contemporaries and friends, Sophia Chablau, Tom Veloso, and Dora Morelenbaum. It combines elements of MPB, jazz, pop and progressive rock in a bold, authoritative style. The album represents the intersection between different facets of the artist, from the stripped- down, intimate, guitar singer- songwriter, to dense arrangements with sweeping strings sections.

Writing this album allowed Ibarra "to explore sides of myself that had not yet been organized in an album: a certain darkness, a more cinematic musicality, a desire for new soundscapes". The album features the single, 'Transe', a song with an instantly comforting tone reminiscent of classic Brazilian songs of the past (think Caetano Veloso). It is built on a rhythmic guitar that supports dynamic sound layers, opening space for Ibarra's intense interpretation. Cinematic atmospheres that lend an air of mystery come courtesy of string arrangements by Jaques Morelenbaum. His unique cover version of Sophia Chablau's 'Segredo' is equally compelling, taking Sophia's punky-indie original in a different direction and making it feel like his own. 'Essa Confusao', a song celebrating the intensity of love and co- written by Dora Morelenbaum, is steered into epic, 70's AOR, singer- songwriter territory with wind arrangements by Ibarra, Jorge Continentino and strings by Jaques Morelenbaum.

The album is the result of the collaboration of experienced musicians and long-time partners of Ibarra. Fellow Bala Desejo and Donica member Lucas Nunes co-produced the album. The core band featured on the record consists of Lucas Nunes on organs, Alberto Continentino on bass, Daniel Conceicao and Thomas Harres on drums and percussion, Rodrigo Pacato on additional percussion, Chico Lira on Fender Rhodes and Guilherme Lirio on guitar. The overall feel of the record is archetypically quintessential without slipping into retro mode.

It is a stunning album from one of the fnest musicians of his generation. A true star of Brazil's blooming contemporary scene.

TRACK LISTING

1. Infnito Em Nos
2. Segredo
3. Transe
4. Retrato De Maria Lucia
5. Da Menor Importancia
6. Morena
7. Essa Confusao
8. Hexagrama 28

This much- loved Latin workout has been rocking dancefoors for years with its infectious, driving energy and pulsating rhythms. Released in 1968, the 'My Latin Soul' album on Philips Records now receives a welcome reissue on Mr Bongo. It's a sheer delight throughout and a premier example of the Nu Yorican sound that was thriving in New York in the '60s.

From a young age, the Bronx, New York-born Latin jazz percussionist Bobby Matos found inspiration through the conga drum masters Mongo Santamaria and Patato Valdez (who he had informal backstage lessons with) and timbales legends Willie Bobo and Tito Puente. Bobby was drawn into New York's club scene and began playing in the vibrant '60s beat / bohemian Greenwich Village cafes, followed by stints in a wide range of different venues. These included Bronx dance halls and after-hours clubs in El Barrio, through to the elegance of Carnegie Hall, Central Park concerts, and off-Broadway theatres.

Later relocating to Los Angeles, Bobby played an important role in spreading Latin music far and wide. He became an inspiration to many on the jazz dance and acid jazz scenes in the '80s / '90s where his recordings were picked and played, becoming prized collector items amongst DJs. The track 'Tema De Alma Latina' was immortalised as a classic for many, after being featured on the Gilles Peterson's Street Sounds Jazz Juice 5 compilation in 1987. A captivating listen from start to finish, the album features other treats such as the dynamic album opener 'Nadie Baila Como Yo', the blazing fute led 'Mambo Maxims', and the blistering piano shufer 'Raices'.

A truly iconic Latin classic whether you're being reunited with it like an old friend or discovering it as a fresh new find.

TRACK LISTING

1. Nadie Baila Como Yo
2. En Casa De Alfredo
3. Caliente Y Grasoso
4. Te Adoro A Ti
5. La Cosa De Ritchie
6. Me Tienes Loco
7. Tema De Alma Latina
8. Mambo Maxims
9. One Mint Julep
10. Raices
11. Trailo A Casa

Woven with tight grooves, beautiful vocals and catchy melodies, Hollie's forthcoming album hears her more confident and open to vulnerability than ever before. The title track of the album 'Shy Girl' is a buoyant and elastic slice of lovers rock. It was written in a moment of spontaneous intuition, and bubbles with a charisma and positivity that Cook radiates. "I'm not a natural show-off," Cook explains. "The Shy Girl theme is me. It's just about being my most vulnerable self and being as true to the music that love as possible." Doused in Hollie's signature "tropical pop" sound, 'Shy Girl' is grounded in a vibrant bassline and classic off- beat reggae guitar struts. Hollie's dreamy vocals radiate warmth and tenderness in equal measure, adding to the song's soft- hued embrace.

TRACK LISTING

Shy Girl
Frontline

It began with a cassette tape entitled 'Pleased To Meet You' gifted to us at Sessa's Fasching, Stockholm show by Yann Dardenne, the multi-tasking tour manager/sound engineer/producer/merch stall worker and co-owner of Seloki Records

On first listen, the selection of underground Brazilian artists from the Seloki's roster was superb, however, one song stopped us in our tracks. The hauntingly captivating ' GOSTO MEIO DOCE' by Nina Maia and Francisca Barreto, gave us a taste of Nina's ethereal, addictive voice and we knew we needed to hear more.

Born in Minas Gerais but now based in Sao Paulo, the 22-year-old has already packed a lot into a relatively short space of time. The singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer, has already collaborated on the soundtracks for six Brazilian feature films, including a track with the vocalists Maria Gadu, Iza, and Liniker. But things enter a new exciting era with this, her remarkable debut album entitled 'INTEIRA', which translates to English as 'whole'. As much inspired by Billie Eilish and Rosalia, as Milton Nascimento and Toninho Horta and not sounding like other records coming out of Brazil, 'INTEIRA' is unique. Though rich in its Brazilian heritage, inspired by samba cancao, MPB, and the Clube da Esquina movement, it also channels influence from bands such as Portishead and Massive Attack, mixed with jazz, contemporary leftfield and electronic pop artists.

The album led to a nomination in Paulista Association of Art Critics (APCA) award's 'Breakthrough Artist' category, who also listed 'INTEIRA' as one of the 50 best albums of 2024. It also received support from Bandcamp Weekly and Jamz Supernova on BBC 6 Music. Released digitally by Seloki Records in Brazil in 2024, Mr Bongo in partnership with Seloki Records now present this new, deluxe worldwide edition that includes four additional songs. These comprise the brand-new exquisite 'MANHA', as well as an original twist on Vinicius de Moraes' classic 'Serenata Do Adeus'. Elsewhere you'll find a live recording showcasing Nina's remarkable energy on stage courtesy of 'DE DENTRO' and 'GOSTO MEIO DOCE' with the amazing musician/vocalist Francisca Barreto, where our whole story began. Here at Mr Bongo, we are honoured to release music by such a remarkable new talent - one whose musical trajectory is most certainly about to soar.

TRACK LISTING

Caricatura
Kao
Mar Adentro
Sua
Menininha
Amargo
Salto De Fe
Inteira
Manha
Gosto Meio Doce
Serenata Do Adeus
De Dentro (Live)

With two critically acclaimed compilations already under his belt, DJ/collector Miche returns to Mr Bongo with the third instalment of his 'With Love' series

Testament to his ever-expanding taste, Volume 3 isn't just a subs bench call-up from the past compilations, it's an evolution and progression casting the net deeper and wider than before.

Keeping true to the series, but with some fresh surprises along the way, this carefully curated compilation is a celebration of soulful, independently released music from across the globe, and the amazing (often unsung) musicians and vocalists that made these sublime records.

Across the third volume, Miche explores a jazzier side of his tastes . "The deeper I went, the more I found myself gravitating towards jazzier music - not leaving soul behind, but following that same feeling into new territory", he explains. Tracks like the gliding jazz funk found on Late Nite Music Band's 'Sundance', or the glorious jazz-soul number 'In Flight' by Spectrym are shining examples of this.

TRACK LISTING

1. John Simmons - Ain't Nothing Like The Love
2. Le Cop - Law, Order & Peace
3. The Medlows - Love (Part 1)
4. The Whale And Flea - Ridin' On
5. Liberation Of Man - Lovely Day
6. Thrills - Telephone
7. East Wind Band - Read The Fine Print
8. Late Nite Music Band - Sundance
9. Gulden Karabocek - Dokunma Keyfine Yalan Dunyanin
10. Nukhet Ruacan - Golge
11. Carlos Bivar - Amargo Amar
12. Art Carey & Magnum Force - Good-Bye My Love
13. New Way - Holding On
14. Flashback - Piece Of Mind
15. Spectrym - In Flight
16. John Academia - Open Our Eyes

This one was an unexpected treat - two of our favourite contemporary musicians, Finn Rees & SHOLTO coming together and collaborating on a double dose of celestial, cinematic alchemy

At Mr Bongo we are massive admirers of drummer, musician, and producer SHOLTO (Oscar Robertson). His two albums on Funk Night Records and DeepMatter Records, had both been highlights of their respective years.

We'd gotten to know Oscar and sent him a few records. Included in the package was Australian pianist- composer Finn Rees' debut album, Dawn Is A Melody, which was one of our favourite releases on Mr Bongo in 2024. In Oscar's words 'For me it was a standout modern jazz record - encapsulating a spiritual / hazy dreamy soundscape which hugely resonated with me. Glissando keys and harp with lush melodies, I was instantly intrigued." The pair started following each other online and as luck would have it, Finn was staying in London for the summer season, so they arranged to meet.

The pair instantly clicked and said it felt like they'd known each other for years. After 40 minutes of chatting, they started to jam. 'Love In Memory' and 'Bluebell' were recorded over two days - a track a day in Oscar's SFJ studios. Laid down on mostly analogue equipment, the pair utilised Wurlitzer's, mellotrons, and ribbon mics through Oscar's '70s Studer desk. Composed and crafted without any real intentions, other than a shared appreciation for the same style of music and approach, the tracks started to take shape. The results were as lush, nostalgic and textured as you'd expect from these two brilliant musicians, with a classical feel inspired by artists such as Piero Piccioni, Piero Umiliani, and Henry Mancini.

For the beautiful string arrangements, the pair recruited the talents of SHOLTO's longtime friend and collaborator Clementine Brown (Penguin Cafe Orchestra) and Matthew Hayes of 30/70, Allysha Joy, Xpress Point, Zeitgeist Freedom Energy Exchange fame, was brought in to play bass on 'Bluebell'.

So here we have it, a chance collaborative project built on two musicians' mutual respect for each other's outputs. The result is truly breathtaking.

TRACK LISTING

Love In Memory
Bluebell

'Mormaco Queima' is where it all began for Ana Frango Electrico. Raw, quirky and lo- fi, it's a debut album brimming with attitude and youthful energy, characteristics that would go on to define their sound. Previously released digitally in Brazil in 2018, with a private press CD version in 2020 and later a Brazilian vinyl version in 2022, here at Mr Bongo we felt it deserved a much- needed worldwide edition for all of us to savour.

A charming, idiosyncratic blend of MPB, Tropicalia, and indie from a talented singersongwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer who would later become one of Brazil's brightest international stars. 'Mormaco Queima' has a cool, laidback, swagger channelling '90s bands such as Pavement. The arrangements feel loose and easy, the opener, 'Farelos' (Crumbs), seems to ebb and flow on a razor's edge before the percussion and Antonio Neves' trombone draws the song into a structure.

Another highlight is 'No Bico Do Mamilo', which has a free-flowing vibe, Ana pushing, pulling, and playing with the song's energy, keeping listeners constantly on their toes. Tracks such as 'Roxo' lean more into a punk attitude, with the pendulum swinging from easy-going to frenetic. The longest song on the album 'Picles', continues to sway the pendulum this time moving from DIY punk- funk into a psychedelic workout Coproduced by friends and fellow future collaborators Guilherme Lirio, Gustavo Benjao, Marcelo Callado, and Thiago Nassif, 'Mormaco Queima' is a playful showcase of Ana Frango Electrico's distinctive style.

Plotting Ana's musical career, it's clear they are not one to be pigeon-holed, nor to be confined to a single genre. Instead, they are ever evolving and this captivating debut album was the building block for a career that has already seen them gain multiple Latin-Grammy awards and tour the world with their music.

TRACK LISTING

Farelos
No Bico Do Mamilo
Loteria
Roxo
Picles
Trago
Cascas E Feridas

Mr Bongo proudly presents Ritmo Italiano 'Unspoken Sounds of Italian Tamburo' a captivating compilation of percussive-driven, Italian gems curated by Sardinian multi-instrumentalist, percussionist and producer, Gabriele Poso

A journey into the heart of Italian musical history, it celebrates Italy's rich rhythmic traditions, showcasing a selection of genre-traversing, Italian treasures from the '60s to the early '90s. Honouring the timeless rhythms of Italian percussion masters, alongside a brand- new exclusive composition by Gabriele, 'Ritmo Italiano' shines a light on the universal, primal language of the drum. A connection sparked from an early age; percussion has always deeply resonated with Gabriele. It led to years of studying percussion traditions across Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Brazil, crafting his own songwriting skills in the process. An acclaimed producer and compiler, his releases on Yoruba Records, BBE and Soundway Records have garnered global support. Yet a growing need to rediscover the essence of his country's cultural heritage laid the foundations for this new compilation.

In Gabriele's own words, "Italy has always been a crossroads of civilizations, with influences from the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe converging over centuries. Ports like Naples, Genoa, and Venice played a crucial role as gateways for musical exchange, a melting pot of sounds and cultures brought by sailors, merchants and travellers. These influences blended with Italy's own folk and religious traditions, creating Italy's unique and emotionally resonant rhythms."

Across the 12 absorbing tracks, there's jazz influences, Italian library music aesthetics and experimental beats mixing with Afro- Cuban and Mediterranean rhythms. It's a broad selection anchored by the drums. The synth- heavy, '80s jazz funk flavours of Gege Munari's 'Police Man', sit side-by-side with the samba-infused 'Napulitano D' 'O Brasil' by Don Marino Barreto Jr. Tribal, earthly energy radiates from Naco's 'Volando Con Milton', with Tullio De Piscopo serving up cosmic disco brilliance, and blistering jazz funk mastery coming courtesy of Agostino Marangolo. Taking the name of the compilation, a new original track by Gabriele, 'Ritmo Italiano', blends traditional rhythms with contemporary energy, Afro-Latin influences with Italian jazz essence.

Recorded live in one take, it captures a raw, unfiltered vibe. "Each track tells a story, connecting the past with the present, and highlighting the deep-rooted traditions that shape Italy's rhythms. The collection also offers a glimpse into the diversity of Italian music with a variety of styles from the organic, earthy beats to the more experimental and modern takes on traditional rhythms. It's a reflection of how these rhythms have not only shaped Italian culture but also influenced global music."

A captivating compilation of percussive-driven, Italian gems from the '60s to the early '90s, curated by multi- instrumentalist, percussionist and producer, Gabriele Poso. Includes an exclusive new track by Gabriele.

TRACK LISTING

Puccio Roelens E La Sua Grande Orchestra TV - Caravan
Gege Munari Percussion Modern - Police Man
Don Marino Barreto Junior- Napolitano D'o Brazil
Tony Esposito - Pagaia / Naco - Volando Con Milton
Rosario Jermano - Grand Oceano
Tullio De Piscopo - Temptation
Tony Cercola - Lumumba
Gabriele Poso - Ritmo Italiano
Agostino Marangolo - Certi Giorni Mi Sento Bene, Certi Giorni Mi Sento male
Tony Cercola - Lumumba (Clap! Clap! Version)

Hollie Cook, one of reggae's most exciting voices, makes a return to the label that released her cherished debut album in 2011

Landing back on Mr Bongo, 'Night Night' is a stand-alone aperitif and taster of what to expect from the next era in Hollie's musical journey.

Revisiting her roots, this latest single embraces the trademark reggae / tropical pop sound Hollie found fame with on her first two albums. With a career that has gone from strength to strength since those formative days, the buoyance, charisma, and confidence gained in those subsequent years are on show for all to see.

Recorded at Crosstown Studios in London with the General Roots band and produced, mixed and dubbed by Ben McKone, 'Night Night' documents the longing of a lonely lover. Grounded in a sound system rattling bass line, strutting guitars and shimmering keys provide a sunshine- infused contrast. Hollie's smooth sultry tones radiate throughout, backed by the legendary Horseman on toasting duties - a collaboration that hasn't been heard since Hollie's first album. Trading verses, the warmth of Hollie's velvety vocals balances Horseman's raw explosive energy in an absorbing harmony.

In true reggae style, the 7" single is backed with a classic dub mix, adding spacey reverb and delays, whilst giving Hollie and Horseman a more spacious streamlined flow in the mix.

TRACK LISTING

Night Night
Night Night (Dub)

Mr Bongo proudly presents the third album by Melbourne/Naarm multi instrumentalist, Don Glori, entitled 'Paper Can't Wrap Fire'

A kaleidoscopic genre- surfing odyssey that brings together the worlds of jazz, soul and funk. Feeling both contemporary and classic, familiar yet novel, it's an assured third release that sees an artist in full flight, showcasing their creative prowess and the uniqueness of their musical voice.

Steering in a new direction, Don Glori (aka Gordon Li) has delved headfirst into his songwriting with 'Paper Can't Wrap Fire'. Deftly showcasing his talents as a writer and bandleader, he brings with him a whole host of friends from the creative crossroads that is Naarm. It's an album enriched with more soul, R&B, and funk- oriented songs than his previous jazz- rooted productions, yet there's still plenty of jazz material for those familiar fans of Don's earlier works.

It's a journey infused with a glistening jazz finesse, layered with nourishing vocal harmonies and powered by an instantly relatable human soul. Recorded over two hot summer days in Rolling Stock Studios in Collingwood, Naarm, the lineup of musicians is built up of Don's friends and family. Featuring the backbone team of Tim Cox, Al Kennedy, Joel Trigg, Robyn Cummins and Lachlan Thompson, who were part of Don's touring band before he relocated to London, and a stunning selection of vocalists in the form of ML Hall, Ruby Dargaville, Isadora Lauritz, and Bianca Kyriacou. Also gracing the album are trumpeter extraordinaire Audrey Powne, saxophonist Joshua Moshe, and Alcides Neto who sprinkles some Brazilian magic into the record.

Taking influence from artists including Azymuth, SAULT, Jordan Rakei and Lynda Dawn, as well as from London musical beacons such as NTS and Total Refreshment Centre, Don has run with this, leaned in and come out with a record truly unique to himself and his distinctive core, with no mask necessary.

TRACK LISTING

Disaster
Brown Eyes (Ft. ML Hall)
Flicker (Ft. ML Hall, Bianca Kyriacou)
Janet (Ft. ML Hall)
Song For Ants
Power
Precious
Ron Song
Saturn's Return

Kicking off a new edit series on E Soul Cultura, head honcho Luke Una hands over the keys to three secret weapon edits of transcendental dancefloor tackle.

Having spent a lifetime getting his hands dirty digging in crates, Luke's collection of off-the-beaten-track gems is second to none. For this three-track E Soul edit release, Luke delivers a one-way ticket to the outer reaches of the universe soaking up sounds from Barbados, the UK and Cameroon along the way. Strap in for a triple threat of signature Luke Una edits reworking Ella Andall, Slick Mission and Manu Dibango for the modern dancefloor.

Up first, Luke twists and tweaks the Caribbean radiance of Ella Andall 'My Spirit Is Music', enriching this high- energy heater. Speaking about the track he said, "It's a remarkable, '90s, swerve ball, machine soul, afrobeat groove from Barbados. Incredibly rare, but most importantly it's a wonderful fusion of drum machine and this almost carnival- like feel to this afrobeat rhythm that just turns it into the outer cosmos."

Following that, Luke gets suitably cosmic on the dub dials with his 5am Shabeen Proto House Edit of Slick Mission 'Times Up'. Produced by Jerry Pike of Atmosfear / Elite Records fame, Luke recounts, "This is a very much missed slice of UK house pressure which has its foot firmly in a proto-house feel. Very DIY, rough and raw - it's an absolute gem. This is one that has definitely escaped most eyes."

Last but not least, it's a stop in Cameroon shining a light on the legendary Manu Dibango and his cover of 'Jingo' featuring King Sunny Ade. "Their version of 'Jingo' takes the original classic into a whole new level of outer space, afro brilliance . It's such a beautiful cover and really turns the track into something else. The musicianship and vibes just scream out. Oddly no one really seems to know it."

Three certified winners from Luke's underground arsenal, reworked, refined and ready to be deployed on any dancefloor when the feeling hits.

TRACK LISTING

1. Ella Andall - My Spirit Is Music (Luke Una's Machine Soul Tops Off Edit)
2. Slick Mission - Times Up (Luke Una's 5am Shabeen Proto House Edit)
3. Manu Dibango Ft King Sunny Ade - Jingo (Luke Una's Dancing In Outer Space Edit)

A deep, hypnotic, sonic excursion of Afro-Cuban/mambo rhythms to get lost within. Released in 1978, there are a number of different pressings of the album coming out on labels including GRC, Desca Records and Sound Triangle Records. Stripped-back and low-fi, this is a pulsating hit of instrumental Latin-jazz dance magic.

Predominantly made up of just percussion and bass, the album comes courtesy of Carlos "Rico" Ramirez on bass, Carlos Patato on congas, timbales by Nelson Padron and Lazaro Pla aka Manteca as band leader. A Cuban legend, Manteca rose to fame playing with Ernesto Lecuona and the Cuban Boys. Although he featured on numerous recordings in his home of Cuba, only a handful exist of his as featured soloist or band leader.

A whirlwind of percussive brilliance, 'Ritmo Y Sabor' is brimming with energy regardless of the tempo of the track. An instantaneous ability to make you move, the grooves come alive with each new rhythm introduced. Take for instance, the track 'Afro Funky' that more than lives up to its name. A breakbeat Latin-funk workout, with a mighty fine walking bass line that provides the basis for the drummers to vibe off. Elsewhere, 'Rumbon En Casa De Cando' is fast and furious perfect for the jazz dance specialist, whilst 'Sabor A Mantecado' keeps you on your toes with its trance- like repetitive bassline and percussive interplay. 'Cosa De Manteca' is another heavy-Latin funk gem with a rough and raw feeling of relentless yet groove-driven percussion.

A must-have Afro-Cuban, rhythmic funk triumph, that shows Manteca and his band in full flight.

TRACK LISTING

Rumbon En Casa De Cando
Afro Funky
Sabor A Mantecado
Abacua
Son Montuno
Cosas De Manteca
Gozando El Timbal

It's a heavy hit of Miami Latin-funk, dosed up with psychedelic garage rock and gritty soul excellence, making for an intoxicating blend of styles and genres on this highly sought-after LP.

Predominately sung in English, Coke's only album under this moniker is a sumptuous melting pot of influences, tied together with bright funk drumming, flavourful organs and zesty horns. With a garage band attitude and sensibility, the lineup consisted of Paul Garcia on guitar, Ariel Hernandez on bass, Ruben Perez on drums, Jose Rubio on the keys, a host of guest horn players and Peter Fernandez on vocals, whose tone and delivery was often mistaken for that of a woman.

Produced by Mato, the record and band were well-received in Miami and Southern Florida at the time. Due to a lack of promotion outside of Florida and the threat of a lawsuit from the Coca-Cola corporation for usage of their name, the band fell into relative obscurity, becoming Opus following the dispute. They say the cream always rises to the top though, with Coke being rediscovered by diggers and collectors searching for a rare groove.

One of the standout cuts on the album 'Na Na' was recently featured on the soundtrack to the Netflix drama 'Griselda' (a biopic of Miami/ Cuban crime boss Griselda Blanco). Other highlights include the crooner- jazz-rock 'Got to Touch Your Face', the psych ballad 'You Turn Me On' with a guitar line reminiscent of The Doors, and the Latin-rock groover, 'Te Amo Mas'.

Coke is a sensational crossover record, that draws from a sea of different influences. Fans of early Santana, garage-pysch, Nu Yorican and Latin-funk productions should all investigate this cherished album - it will have something for you.

TRACK LISTING

1. Na Na
2. You Turn Me On
3. Got To Touch Your Face
4. Que Seria De Mi
5. Bun Bun Bun
6. Bang Bang
7. Sabor A Mi
8. Te Amo Mas
9. Nuestro Amor
10. Quiero Decirte

13 years in the making, Mr Bongo proudly presents a new compilation of beloved Brazilian disco and boogie finds from the legendary London disco connoisseurs, Horse Meat Disco

A labour of love, it showcases a tantalising cross- section of disco, funk, boogie, samba and MPB, from past to present. Unearthing tracks from the seemingly endless gold mine of Brazilian gems, the compilation features legends such as Jorge Ben, Gretchen, Marcos Valle and Robson Jorge & Lincoln Olivetti, alongside unsung heroes including Ze Carlos and Carlos Bivar.

Over 20 years ago, the Horse Meat Disco crew (James Hillard, Severino Panzetta, Jim Stanton and Luke Howard) began their weekly residency at Eagle London back in 2003. That same year, Luke made his first visit to Brazil, beginning a musical love affair that is still going strong. "I had always wanted to go to Brazil since I was a kid, and when I finally had the opportunity to go with Princess Julia, I was just blown away. I've visited Rio every year since 2003, and in that time, I've learned Portuguese and tried to discover as much as I can about Brazilian music and popular culture. I learned to dance samba with the Paraiso School of Samba in London and paraded three times at Rio Carnival. Brazilian music was a brand- new world for me to explore and get excited about--a whole universe of genius musicians, singers, and styles." 9 years later, Mr Bongo invited Luke down to their Brighton HQ for a listening session of some of his favourite Brazilian boogie and disco 7" finds. A compilation was greenlit, but multiple licensing delays and the release of other HMD compilations meant that it lay dormant for years. Fast forward to 2024, and with the help of esteemed, Rio based record collector Tee Cardaci, along with suggestions from HMD's James Hillard, the dream of an HMD Brazilian compilation finally materialised.

It's a carefully curated collection that includes the electronic-boogie/italo-disco-esque 1984 groover 'Venha (Remix)' by the singer Ze Carlos, two cuts by Luiza Maura taken from her sought- after Deixa Girar 7", and Gretchen's sultry 'Ela Tem Raca, Charme, Talento E Gostosura' written by Jorge Ben. At its core, this compilation captures the excitement and sense of discovery that won over Horse Meat Disco's heart more than 20 years ago.

A vibrant mix of feel-good favours, it homes in on a sun-soaked strand of disco and boogie that has been enriched with the spirit of a nation where music serves as a central pillar of life.

TRACK LISTING

1. Harmony Cats - Harmony Cats' Theme
2. Luiza Maura - Sorriso Vermelho
3. Gretchen - Ela Tem Raca, Charme, Talento E Gostosura
4. Coisa Quente - Edmundo (In The Mood)
5. Ze Carlos - Venha (Remix)
6. Robson Jorge & Lincoln Olivetti - Suspira
7. Os Carbonos - Passaro Selvagem
8. San Rodrigues - Fofa
9. Marcos Valle - Parabens (Danca Do Daniel)
10. Lafayette - Sol De Verao
11. Roberto Cesar - Fevereiro (O Bamba)
12. Arlete - Quero Ser Sua Mulher
13. Waldirene - Queima Como Fogo
14. Luiza Maura - Deixa Girar
15. Jorge Ben - Rio Babilonia
16. Carlos Bivar - Elo

DJ and record collector, Steve KIW, put Mr Bongo onto this amazing Chilean cover version of Jamie Principle & Frankie Knuckles' all- time classic 'Your Love'. Despite being originally released 13 years ago, it had recently started to prick the ears of house and Balearic connoisseurs in the UK, further cemented by inclusions in the Idjut Boys epic sets. Steve heard them play it, tipped us off and it soon became a favourite at Mr Bongo HQ.

By pure chance when the Mr Bongo DJs joined Luke Una to play at La Paloma ballroom in Barcelona a few weeks later, Luke dropped this incredible interpretation at the peak of his set. A good friend of his, Michelle from Huddersfield, had also put him onto the track and he instantly fell in love. A serendipitous coming together, 'Tu Amor' seemed like the perfect next instalment in the E Soul Cultura discography. The version in question was released in 2012 as part of a digital-only EP.

It came courtesy of the Chilean DJ, producer and singer Mamacita (Carolina Vallejos) and producer Sebastian Roman, aka Persona RS. Meeting Sebastian while out partying in Santiago during a boom time for electronic music in Chile, their shared passion for making house music in Spanish and their admiration for Frankie Knuckles led to the creation of this raw and unique cover version. Recorded on lo-fi equipment, including an old Windows laptop and a borrowed Neumann microphone, it nods to the DIY ethos of the early Chicago productions. The result is a stripped- back, quirky cosmic take on a stone- cold classic, full of squelching synthlines and Carolina's stunning Spanish vocals, that became a club hit on Chile's underground circuit. However, aside from some Latin American and US DJs picking it up, it never got the international recognition it deserved.

Fast forward to 2025, and E Soul Cultura is proud to present the glorious 'Tu Amor' on vinyl for the first time, backed with a new, extended, club re- edit by E Soul Cultura captain Luke Una and Luke Solomon (Classic Music). On first hearing 'Tu Amor' Luke Una recalls, "There was a real charm to it, it was quite an unorthodox arrangement, a huge wonkiness and just sounded so DIY in a brilliant way. I was chatting to Luke (Solomon) about how much we loved it and we decided to re- edit it together. Accentuating the wonk of those crazy synths, we've extended it to make a fiercer underground club tool, without taking away that very charming cosmic feel".

TRACK LISTING

Mamacita Ft. Persona RS - Tu Amor (Your Love Spanish Version)
Mamacita ft. Persona RS - Tu Amor (Double Drop Luke E Soul Re-Edit)

Immortalised in hip-hop folklore, when the anthemic 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat' was featured on the influential Ultimate Breaks & Beats compilation series in 1986.

Percussion Explosion! was the brainchild of drummer, percussionist, producer and arranger, Herman Kelly and his percussive disco- funk group from Miami, 'Life', that featured Aaron McCarthy, Oliver Well, John DeMonica, Michal Cordoza and Travis Biggs. The album houses a collection of disco, funk and Latin-inspired cuts that were destined for greatness. Nestled within the grooves is the B-Boy and B-Girl's anthem, 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat', which contains a now legendary break. A cursory glance at Whosampled will show that it has been sampled in over 125+ songs. These include Double Dee & Steinski on their groundbreaking 1985 production 'Lesson 3 (History Of Hip Hop Mix)', as well as by DJ Shadow, N.W.A, Masters At Work, Run D.M.C. and a whole host of heavyweights across hip-hop, dance and pop music.

When the album was released in 1978 it came out on two different labels, Alston Records and Electric Cat. Each label pressed different versions of 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat', with the former featuring a 4:12 version and the latter a longer 5:09 version that has a different structure, crowd noise at the start and overdubbed percussion.

For this Mr Bongo reissue, we have chosen the classic 4:12 version from the Alston Records release, which would later find its way on to the illustrious Ultimate Breaks & Beats compilation. To make matters even more confusing the Alston version art on the back cover also states the track length as 5:09, whilst the centre label lists it correctly as 4:12.

Aside from the much celebrated 'Dance To The Drummer's Beat', the album includes a range of other fantastic overlooked cuts. From the percussive soul stepper 'Share Your Love', to the beautiful Latin-flavoured 'A Refreshing Love' or the party disco-funk groover 'Who's The Funky D.J.?'.

This wonderful and inspirational record features an important piece of hip- hop heritage and deserves a place in every collection.

TRACK LISTING

Dance To The Drummer's Beat
Time After Time
A Refreshing Love
Who's The Funky D.J.?
Share Your Love
Do The Handbone

Two supreme MPB/bossa-nova cuts courtesy of our leading Brazil 45's lady, Claudia.

On the A side, 'Deixa o Morro Cantar' features on Claudia's very first 7", released in 1965 by RGE Brazil. A classy, horn-infused number that really brings out the warming tone of Claudia's iconic voice.

Take to the flip for Claudia's version of the legendary 'Mas Que Nada'. It's a jazzier, folk- funk take on the Jorge Ben classic, that provides a great alternative version of this timeless song.

TRACK LISTING

Deixa O Morro Cantar
Mas Que Nada

For this edition we reissued two tracks from Celia's awesome, sought after, second self-titled LP from 1972. 'Na Boca Do Sol' was written and arranged by Arthur Verocai and Vitor Martins, the original of which appeared on Verocai's brilliant self- titled album. Fuzz guitar, drums, strings and Celia's vocal combine to create an epic Brazilian masterstroke.

On the B side 'A Hora e Essa' is the first track from the Celia's second self-titled LP. A lively samba- funk workout, doused in jazzy piano licks, strutting guitars and punchy horns. These two classics were also given a 7" pressing in 1972 on Continental, which is very difficult to get hold of now.

TRACK LISTING

Na Boca Do Sol A Hora E Essa

For this 7" double header we turned our attention to two outstanding boogie gems from Hanna and Almir Ricardi. Up first, 'Deixa Rodar' is an essential midtempo disco/ boogie jam taken from Hanna's 1979 Deixa Rodar LP from 1979. A tip off from our good friend Mark 'GV' Taylor, this is a sure-fire way to light up any dancefloor and was featured in DJ Koco's incredible Brazil 45's mix.

On the B side, 'To Parado Na Tua' is another killer midtempo disco/ boogie cut, this time from Almir Ricardi in 1984. Produced by the legendary duo of Lincoln Olivetti and Robson Jorge it exudes that feel-good boogie flavour they are famous for. Taken from the sought after and now fairly pricey 'Festa Funk' LP on RGE.

TRACK LISTING

Hanna - Deixa Rodar
Almir Ricardi - To Parado Na Tua

Turning the spotlight to two monster funk/ bossa nova cuts from Rosa Maria, we reissued a double header of firm favourites here at Mr Bongo HQ. Originally released on 7" in 1972 via Tapecar, copies of the OG are extremely difficult to get your hands on.

The A side houses 'Deixa Nao Deixa', with its distinct afro-Latin feel courtesy of the guitar, horns and percussion. Add in the catchy lead vocal, strong harmonies, funk/ bossa drum grooves, shuffling percussion and the continuous build to the end, and you have one of the greatest Brazilian funk records ever pressed.

'Avenida Atlantica' takes the B side. Funk and bossa drum grooves alternate underneath the layers of vocals, horns, piano and percussion for a fiery, energetic dancefloor heater.

TRACK LISTING

Deixa Nao Deixa
B.Avenida Atlantica

Based in New York and Colombia, Alfredo worked with some of the greats in Latin music including Eddie Palmieri, Willie Colon and Roberto Roena, alongside disco and soul icons like Sylvester and Aquarian Dream. His debut album, Alfredo, is sublime and comprises two distinct halves. The A- side is a fine outing of Latin dancefloor workouts, with Alfredo innovatively incorporating the violin as a key element of his songwriting. Take to 'Toca Alfredo Toca' or 'Charangueando' to hear Alfredo's violin solos placed centre stage, a unique dimension to Latin music which he helped to pioneer at the time.

Side two though is where things get interesting and unexpected. 'Hot To Trot' is a string- laden, Latin groover with a heavy dose of disco- funk and bubbling Brazilian percussion. It is sheer genius and still ignites a dancefloor to this day. The track became a favourite with the iconic New York DJ Larry Levan and was spun in one of the ground zero blueprints of modern clubbing, the Paradise Garage. This tune has been a mainstay amongst DJs ever since its release, has featured on compilations by Louie Vega, Dave Lee and Danny Krivit over the years and is a record that never leaves our bag. Other highlights include the cosmic, layered string, Latin jazz version of 'My Favourite Things' that opens into a psychedelic percussive jam and the mesmerising 'Que Rico Bailo Yo'. Also be sure to check the epic closer 'Canto Del Corazon', which fuses avant-garde elements into a bass-gliding funk before morphing into a brilliant Latin final section.

This is a true masterpiece from the trailblazing "El violin de la salsa" and one that deserves a place in every collection.

TRACK LISTING

Toca Alfredo Toca
El Casabe
Charangueando
Que Rico Bailo Yo
Hot To Trot
My Favorite Things
Canto Del Corazon

On the A side, Jack Sharp of the psychedelic, folk rock bands Wolf People and Large Plants, takes on 'After The Dawn'. Sharp, who featured heavily on Colours & Light, dials up the distortion with this all-consuming, darker shade of a remix. Sucking you down into a wormhole of layered guitar reverberations and Paul's spiralling, echoed vocals, it's an intoxicating, driving hit of mind-bending, progressive rock.

Taken from the Colours & Light album recording session, the B side features 'Darkness Rising'. A previously unreleased, original track that didn't make it onto the album, Project Gemini leans in on the wah-wah fuzzed guitars, using it as the basis for a sonic brew of synths, percussion and bass-heavy, psychedelic rock synergy.

TRACK LISTING

After The Dawn (Large Plants Remix)
Darkness Rising

Following the success of 'The Original Sound of Mali' compilation, we return with another explorative delve into the wonders of Malian music compiled by French writer, journalist and Grammy-nominated compiler Florent Mazzoleni and Mr Bongo's very own David Buttle.

Restoring, reissuing and contextualising iconic tracks from Ousmane Kouyate & Ambassadeurs Internationaux, Rail Band, Les Messagers du Mali, Mystere Jazz de Tombouctou and many more, the second compilation in this series dives ever further into the richness of post-independence music emanating out of Mali. One in which traditional foundations and instrumentation, blended with modern musical advances and infuence.

Following Mali's independence, after ten years of maturation, the 1970s saw modern Malian culture revealed to the world through musical anthologies and overviews of national and regional productions. It was a remarkably fertile period of the country's musical history, with state- sponsored bands and orchestras now able to be documented and recorded by sound engineers. Mali has always had a diverse storytelling tradition through music, with each province and ethnic group having its own unique character and nuances. As infuences and sounds from the West drifted over the Atlantic, Malian musicians began hearing artists like John Lee Hooker, Wilson Pickett, Johnny Pacheco, Celia Cruz and James Brown. Elements and ideas from blues, soul, rock and funk led to bands covering artists they'd heard from these genres. The Tjiwara Band de Kati's raw cover version of Pickett's soul / R&B classic 'In The Midnight Hour' and the James Brown funk-channelling cut 'Get Up James' from Les Ambassadeurs du Motel de Bamako, are two such examples featured on this compilation.

Most bands also relied on playing in hotels in Mali's capital, Bamako, which naturally became where they honed their sound. With guests wanting to hear the infuence of foreign styles and modern instrumentation becoming more available, this fusion of Western ideas with traditional Malian rhythms and organic instruments led to a oneof-a-kind musical excellence.

TRACK LISTING

1. Ousmane Kouyate & Ambassadeurs Internationaux - Kefmba
2. Bouba Et Sokona Sacko - Mamaniya
3. Les Ambassadeurs Du Motel De Bamako - Get Up James
4. Allata Broulaye - Moussokeleyato
5. Tentemba Jazz Du Mali - Yayoroba
6. Tjiwara Band De Kati -- Kogola
7. Rail Band - Massare Mousso
8. Les Ambassadeurs Du Motel De Bamako - Matou Kagni
9. Mystere Jazz De Tombouctou - Sidi Yahia
10. Allata Broulaye - Yayoroba
11. Les Messagers Du Mali - Diamana Diarra
12. Tjiwara Band De Kati - Midnight Hour

On the A side, Brazilian Samba luminary Elza Soares, covers Jorge Ben's classic 'Mas Que Nada'. Originally featured on her brilliant 1970 Sambas & Mais Sambas LP on Odeon, it's tougher drums, punchy piano and Elza's stunning vocal tones make this a perfect dancefloor heater. With over 34 albums to her name in a career that spanned 60 years, Elza is a certified legend of Brazilian music.

Little is known about the artist responsible for the B side track, Elizabeth. Nicknamed 'Gatinha do Mato' (loosely translated as 'Jungle Cat') she was involved in the Jovem Guarda movement that fused rock n roll and youth culture with Brazilian styles in the '60s. 'Vou Falar- Lhe Francamente' is a majestic, horn- infused number laced with emotion, that we originally found at one of our favourite, now defunct, spots 'Tony's Hits' in Sao Paulo. The record was originally released on 7" on RGE in 1970.

TRACK LISTING

Elza Soares - Mas Que Nada
Elizabeth - Vou Falar-Lhe Francamente

First up, 'Taieiras' from Elys Camargo's 1972 album Cantos Da Minha Gente on RCA. An infectious, folk-leaning, call and response number that transports you instantly to Brazil. Although Elys recorded 12 albums between 1960 and 1983, little is known about her. DJ Yoda sampled 'Taieiras' in his 2012 track 'U No Likey Like That' featuring Roots Manuva and Kid Creole & The Coconuts.

On the B side, 'Nao Aguento Voce' by Trio Esperanca. A Rio vocal trio formed by siblings Mario, Regina and Evinha Correia Jose Maria (the latter of which recorded the stunning classic, 'Esperar Pra Ver'), whose three older brothers we're The Golden Boys. 'Nao Aguento Voce' is a sun- kissed, psychedelic stunner, taken from their self- titled 1971 album. The original line up recorded seven albums for Odeon Brazil between 1963 and 1975.

TRACK LISTING

Elys Camargo - Taieiras
Trio Esperanca - Nao Aguento Voce

Sourcing rare records to reissue can involve meticulous research and years of digging, but then occasionally, Lady Luck smiles upon you

We probably would have never heard of the Medium Wave Band if Gary from Mr Bongo hadn't known Wolverhampton-based record dealer, Steve Ward. Whilst offering Gary some records for sale, he remembered he had a spare copy of an old 7" single that he thought Gary might like. Steve didn't know much about the release, and it had never sold on Discogs. Looking at the record itself, it was minimalist in appearance and information, there wasn't much to go on other than that it was from the Birmingham area. The mystery drew us in...

The A-side, 'So Tender', is a late-night, jazzy slow-jam, with beautifully sultry, soulful female vocals which sounded vaguely familiar. On listening to the B side, 'Games (Instrumental)', you are rewarded with a superb example of Britfunk / independent UK jazz- funk . The pulsating, bass- led dancefloor groove and sensibility is a sound reminiscent of productions usually found on labels such as Elite, but the 7" was not released on a label, it was a private press by the band themselves. So who are the enigmatic The Medium Wave Band?

After some fruitful internet digging and correspondence, we got the answers. The band lineup featured Elliot Browne on guitar (lead & rhythm), Ron Lyseight on guitar (rhythm), Andrew Proverbs on keyboards, Tony Peart on drums, Paul Snook on bass, Linton Levy on saxophone, and surprisingly, the beautiful vocals we had been enjoying were those of Jackie Graham, aka the hugely successful UK vocalist, Jaki Graham . Maybe best known for her pop hit with David Grant, 'Could It Be I'm Falling In Love', but also featuring on the cult classic track 'Fire In My Heart' by Escape From New York.

Influenced by artists and bands including George Benson , Ronnie Laws , Weather Report, George Duke, Azimuth and Chick Corea to name a few, the guys booked into a studio near the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham and recorded the two tracks that make up this 7". Only 200 copies of the original 7" were ever pressed and were sold mostly in Birmingham at Summit Records by the band's friend DJ Frenchi, as well as at live shows. Despite its limited distribution channels, the record received solid support from fans and those in the music industry, including Morgan Khan of the influential record label, Street Sounds. DJ and journalist, Lindsay Wesker, reviewed the release and this led to the band travelling to London for several radio interviews. They played live shows across the country, including at the prestigious Ronnie Scott's in London, and supported both Shakatak and Weapon of Peace in Birmingham.

Thanks to all those involved bringing this release into fruition and for solving the mystery behind a wonderful Britfunk and UK soul record that could have otherwise been lost in the mists of time.

TRACK LISTING

So Tender
Games (Instrumental)

Mr Bongo proudly presents an official reissue of an iconic, exploratory album by Indian maestro of the sitar, Ananda Shankar, aptly titled 'Ananda Shankar And His Music'.Released on His Master's Voice in 1976, the album is a sublime collage of sitar-funk, traditional Indian classical music and psychedelic grooves, from the Indian sitarist, composer and musician

Nephew to India's legendary sitar virtuoso Ravi Shankar, Ananda's musical family and upbringing led to a deep respect and love of the wealth of music that emanated from his birthplace. His travels to the west coast of America in the late '60s though, saw Shankar immersed in the full swing of psychedelic rock. The collision of these two musical worlds with a whole range of other Eastern and Western influences on 'Ananda Shankar And His Music', is a truly entrancing combination.

First big in the UK in the mid-'90s jazz/rare groove club scene, when it was unearthed by adventurous DJs and crate diggers, the sensational Indian-funk tracks 'Streets Of Calcutta' and 'Dancing Drums' became firm dancefloor favourites. The mixture of drum- heavy funk with Indian music and psychedelia is the perfect melting pot. Flavourful and balanced, it still feels fresh and exciting 40 years on.

Like a fine wine, this album keeps getting better with age and once-overlooked tracks are now seen in a new light. Aside from the main 'club' cuts that many have praised and loved, 'The River' is a part blissed- out, Balearic gem, part cosmic wild west soundtrack, that would provide the perfect complement to any sunset session. Elsewhere, 'Dawn' is a spiritual and meditative journey into Indian classical music, with 'Cyrus' floating you away to heavenly heights. On a different tip, 'Back Home' fuses styles and themes via an organ and Moog- infused, tripped- out excursion, whilst 'Renunciation' hits with a psych-rock sentiment to its sitar-soaked grooves.

A beautiful time capsule of Eastern culture meets Western influence, where experimentation and intrigue produced a fusion of sounds that still sound as vibrant and alluring as they have ever been.

TRACK LISTING

Streets Of Calcutta
Cyrus
The Lonely Rider
The River
Vidai (Parting)
Back Home
Dawn
Renunciation
Dancing Drums

The 80th release in our Brazil 45 series, aptly focusses on the breathtaking 1980s recordings of one of Brazil's musical giants, Jorge Ben. With this 45, you are treated to a double dose of classic cuts from the master in the form of, 'Curumin Chama Cunhata Que Eu Vou Contar (Todo Dia Era Dia De Indio) and 'Rio Babilonia'.

First up is the addictive, bubbling, sun- kissed grooves of 'Curumin Chama Cunhata Que Eu Vou Contar (Todo Dia Era Dia De Indio)'. Taken from the 1981 Bem- Vinda Amizade album originally released on Som Livre \u200ERecords, its tangible warmth soaks into every fibre of your body. A sentimental homage to the indigenous people and tribes of Brazil, this is quintessential Jorge Ben.

The flip features one of Jorge's most beloved Brazilian boogie joints, 'Rio Babilonia'. A joyous mid-tempo joint celebrating life in Rio, its feel-good flavour and the city's iconic monuments, with a swaggering synth bass that struts out over Copacabana beach. Originally released on a compacto and taken from the Dadiva album from 1983, there are no surprises that it features arrangements from the late-great, Lincoln Olivetti.

TRACK LISTING

Curumin Chama Cunha Ta Que Eu Vou Contar (Todo Dia Era Dia De Indio) 
Rio Babilonia

Two jewels from Brazil's rich musical heritage.

On the A side, prolific guitarist Joao Bosco's MPB masterpiece 'O Ronco Da Cuica'. Originally appearing on his 1976 'Galos de Briga' LP released on RCA Brazil, it had yet to have had an official 7" release. It's an intoxicating blend of passionate vocals, feverish cuica and deftly picked acoustic guitar.

On the flip, Antonio Adolfo E A Brazuca's track 'Transamazonica' is an all-time classic Brazilian jazz fusion gem. Taken from the hard- to- find 1971 self- titled LP on Odeon Brazil, it again had never been released on 7". Adolfo was the founder of Trio 3-D and later played with Elis Regina.

TRACK LISTING

Joao Bosco - O Ronco Da Cuica
Antonio Adolfo E A Brazuca - Transamazonica

Marking the third release in our now signature series, we shone the light on two sought-after tracks from Noriel Vilela and Juca Chaves.

On the A side, originally released in 1971 on Copacabana Records, Noriel Vilela's 1971 cover of Tennessee Ernice Ford's '16 Tons'. Ford's 1955 original was a classic American pop- country- folk song, that Noriel masterfully flipped it into a low- slung, deeply toned samba groover.

On the B side Juca Chaves classic 'Take Me Back To Piaui' was released on 7" by RGE In 1970 and features on his album 'Muito Vivo' from 1972. Sublime orchestration, velvety vocals and the instantly uplifting cuica tones, make this a must-have Brazilian cut. Chaves was an active critic of the Brazilian military dictatorship, and like Veloso and Gil, was exiled in the early 1970s, to Portugal and later Italy.

TRACK LISTING

Noriel Vilela - 16 Toneladas
Juca Chaves - Take Me Back To Piaui

Presenting, '(If You Ask)', a brand new, blissed-out pop production with a '70s AOR touch, by the ever-on-point Soyuz.

Coming at a period between albums, the single features guest appearances from the sensational musicians, Biel Basile (O Terno, Sessa) and Anthony Ferraro (Toro Y Moi, Astronauts, Etc.) . Friends of the band, they add their signature touch on the drums and synth respectively. To complete the package, SOYUZ back the title track with a short but sweet, Wurlitzer-laden, MPB-tinged number, 'Tenorio'.

'(If You Ask)' tells the story of lost dreams. A track that can be interpreted either as a bittersweet longing for childhood times, or for a native place you can't return to. For the writer Alex Chumak, he suggests, "In my case, as in the case of many Belarusians, it's both".

For this song, Alex chose to sing in his native Belarusian tongue. As he explains this language "to me feels underrepresented in pop music, also it's a beautiful legacy and sonority that I wanted to share with the listeners of our project around the world". One of the key inspirations was a Belarusian band ("Pesniary"), who produced a host of great progressive folk, jazz fusion and AOR, from the '70s to the '90s, predominantly sung in Belarusian.

Another key influence was the music coming out of the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais in the '70s, drawing inspiration from the sentimental and harmonious music of Beto Guedes, Lo Borges, Fernando Oly and Wagner Tiso.

Having parted ways with their drummer Anton, SOYUZ needed to find a new way to produce songs. The answer was to go remotely. Alex contacted the brilliant Biel Basile, who had recorded Sessa's contemporary classic 'Estrela Acesa', in which Alex also participated. Utilising Biel and Sessa's newly built studio in Sao Paulo, SOYUZ had Biel record the drums directly to tape to get the rich sound they were after. Adding the final magic into the mix, California's Anthony Ferraro provided a beautiful Solina String Ensemble synth arrangement, with drummer/recording engineer Albert Karch expertly assisting with the production.

TRACK LISTING

(If You Ask)
Tenorio

7-inch reissue of this mythical, raw funk rarity by the Miami-based, Cuban rock band, Pearly Queen.

Featuring the hugely sought after, infectious cut 'Quit Jive' In' and a fantastic cover of The Rascals 'Jungle Walk', this is a double header of mid '70s funk fire.

Originally released on Cuban record producer Manuel J. Mato's Sound Triangle Records in 1974, who had emigrated to the US in 1960, this scarce funk gem has long been a prized funk 45 find. DJs and collectors such as Keb Darge and Jazzman Gerald brought this to our attention in the 1990s, with the status of the track amplified by its inclusion on DJ Shadow & Cut Chemist's landmark 7" DJ mix 'Brainfreeze'. DJ Shadow, also used the drums and horns break to masterful effect on his track 'The Number Song' (1996) taken from his infamous 'Endtroducing.....' album on Mo Wax.

Written by Ray Fernandez of Ray & His Court fame, 'Quit Jive' In' is a swaggering funk throwdown, dripping in groove and underpinned by heavy breaks and punchy horns. Whilst on the B side, the rock- funk 'Jungle Walk', is a cover version of The Rascals 1972 original. Penned by the singer, songwriter and guitarist Buzzy Feiten, it wouldn't be out of place as part of the soundtrack to a Tarantino movie.

We can't think of many deep funk tracks we love as much as this beauty. Sadly, for collectors, this original 7" has remained elusive to even some of the most hardened and dedicated diggers, so it feels a fitting release to re-issue for all to savour.

TRACK LISTING

Quit Jive' In
Jungle Walk

Released on Luke Una's E Soul Cultura label, in partnership with Mr Bongo, Crooked Man has remoulded, re-energised and completely reworked 'Everything' and 'My Shadow' from Transmission Towers' critically acclaimed debut LP, Transmission One . The result is a double dose of transcendental, tripped- out productions utilising every ounce of Crooked Man's experience and expertise. 

A key fgure in electronic dance music since the late '80s, Shefield-born Crooked Man aka Richard Barratt released one of bleep techno's defning records back in '89. Landing on Warp, it came under the alias Sweet Exorcist with the late great Richard H. Kirk. Since then, Barratt has put out a slew of exceptional productions under a variety of different monikers from Crooked Man and Parrot, to Earth Angel and Athletes of God. He has released on DFA, delivered countless remixes for Roisin Murphy and reimagined the likes of JIM and Joe Goddard.

For this release, Crooked Man frst takes 'Everything' and contorts it from a postpunk guitar trip into a cybertronic, new beat heater, aptly titled 'Everything (Gone Crooked)'. A percussive state of hypnosis leads the charge, building the tension for a rumbling kick drum and buzzing synth- line to twist their talons into your mind. Eleanor Mante's vocals take on a new vivacity, feeling like your head has been sucked into a psychedelic swirl away from reality. Afrofuturist, arresting and perfectly equipped to electrify any waning dancefoor into action.

On the B side, 'My Shadow (Crooked Shade)' sees Crooked Man morph the original into a frestarter of galactic proportions . The crunched- up breakbeat drives the journey and fips what was once a hallucinatory machine soul number, into an intoxicating slice of club- focussed heat from another dimension. Spiralling pads and astral synths coil around Eleanor's reverberating vocals, as your body is willed to move in a trancelike state of cosmic motion.

TRACK LISTING

1. Everything (Gone Crooked)
2. My Shadow (Crooked Shade)

For number 93 in the Brazil45 series, Mr Bongo present two favourites from the Harmony Cats.

A female vocal quintet (who later became a trio) from So Paulo. They formed in 1976 and were most prolific in the disco period.

'Harmony Cats' Theme' from 1976 is probably the group's best- known track outside of Brazil. Owing a lot to Rhythm Heritage's version of 'Barretta's Theme (Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow)' its wonderfully spacey breakbeat and percussive production with lush, floaty vocals makes it a real crossover classic record.

'Seja Como Nos (De Pe No Chao)' is instantly recognisable. Tucked away on the B-side of their 1979 single 'Tem Dinheiro Nisso' on Young Records, it is a beast of a cover version of The Jacksons' classic ' Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)'. Nothing subtle or sophisticated here. Just a song of pure disco joy, enhanced with awesome Brazilian production and the Cats' trademark vocal arrangements. A get-of-jail-free card for any DJ that finds themselves stuck with an empty dancefloor, but also one that will put smiles on the faces of the more discerning leftfield club crowds.

TRACK LISTING

Harmony Cats’ Theme
Seja Como Nos (De Pe No Chao)

You know it's going to be a heavy record when DJ / collector Mr Thing asks you to keep a look out for a copy on your next digging trip to Brazil

Add on top of that, being sampled by Madlib on the track 'Curls' on his Madvillain album!

Taken from Waldir Calmon's 'Waldir Calmon E Seus Multisons' album onCopacabana(1970), from looking at this unassuming record cover featuring a middle-aged man sporting an impressive pair of glasses you wouldn't expect it to become the fabric to one of the songs from the iconic 'Madvillain' album. But... like many things in life, you shouldn't judge a book by its cover. 'Airport Love Theme', like its name suggests, falls into full- on lounge territory. It is feel- good music made to be the soundtrack for a utopian world that never really was. Yet behind the silky-smooth groove is an addictive earworm waiting to be heard.

'Afro Som' taken from the same album, pushes things in a different direction towards a sound that is more firmly rooted in the Brazilian tradition. This quirky 60's-breakbeat-funk groove is reminiscent of French artist Jean Jacques Perrey's 'E.V.A.', also from 1970, in its melody and backbeat, where the Moog synthesizer of Perrey is replaced with a more orchestrated sound by Calmon. This track is magical, cinematic and breakbeat-laden with a hidden unknown exoticism.

Waldir Calmon had an active career in music working from the '50s right up until his passing in 1982. His career started early, forming his first ensemble at the age of fourteen, originally working in bands in nightclubs and writing jingles. He progressed in the early '50s to a long- running career working in television. In addition to his television work, he had success with his recording vocation, mixing in the same musical circles as greats such as Tom Jobi , Joao Gilberto and Doris Monteiro.

TRACK LISTING

Airport Love Theme
Afro Som

A kingpin player of Miami's Cuban music scene, Ray Fernandez, brought together his 'court' for this sensational Afro-Cuban funk triumph. Largely a family affair, the album features his wife, two sons and a range of other talented musicians including Rickey Washington on saxophone, father of the contemporary jazz maestro Kamasi Washington. Originally released in 1973 on Manuel J. Mato 's iconic and collectible Sound Triangle Records, Ray & His Court is a dose of Miami heat fuelled by a Cuban fire, taking in salsa, soul, funk, calypsoand Afro-Cuban rhythms.

A kaleidoscopic album that draws influence from a range of different genres and scenes blended together in true Ray Fernandez style. Side A, showcases an array of traditional Latin workouts including the addictive enticing opener 'La Senorita Lola' and the pulsating 'Lo Sabia' with its punchy horns and Ray's wonderful, quirky bubbling organ groove. The tantalising 'Venimos Acabando' and bouncing organ stabs of 'El Alacran' are two further tickets to get a dancefloor vibing.

The B-side then steps things up, slipping a hit of heavy-weight Miami funk into the mix. Take the DJ favourite 'Cookie Crumbs' with its fiery bassline, tripped-out voiceovers and breakbeat drums. Or the amazing, memorable and truly unique funk instrumental 'Soul Freedom' with some mighty fine bass clarinet work courtesy of Gary Gottfried . Also featured is a seductive organ- led Cuban funk rework of Bobby Hebb's 'Sunny'(are there any bad versions of this song?), with a sumptuous female vocal that combine to serve up a seductive take us this muchloved classic.

'Ray And His Court' is a brilliant blend of Afro-Cuban gems and Miami funk heat from an influential group on Miami's Latin music scene. A majestic and magnetic classic where every track is a surefire winner.

TRACK LISTING

La Senorita Lola
Lo Sabia
Venimos Acabando
El Alacran
La Pena Pa'Goza
Cookie Crumbs
De Eso Nada Monada
Sunny
Soul Freedom

One of London's most loved underground parties, Tangent, celebrates its 10th birthday this year with a new compilation on Mr Bongo. Its residents, John Gomez and Nick the Record , have curated a selection of prized, rare and dancefloor-ready tracks that have soundtracked the past decade of their parties. Alongside remastered reissues of these original cuts, the CD version of the compilation also houses three incredible edits from Nick, John and Dan Tyler of the Idjut Boys. These were too good not to press onto vinyl, so we've given them the standalone 12"they deserve.

Contextualising their edits Nick states, "Tangent was not only the place for us to play the music we love the most, it also became the testing ground for our edits. It was really helpful being able to see the effect each of these had on a dancefloor before the records were released and many of them also became firm Tangent classics."

Up first, Nick is joined by Dan Tyler (Idjut Boys), who he runs the edit label Record Mission with, for a furiously feel-good re-edit of Leo Basel's 'Quelle Drole De Vie'. Basing their edit on the 1987 'Special Remix', it does what any great re-work does, dropping the sections from the original that don't quite hit the mark, whilst focussing on the gold in amongst it all. The result is a slice of peak-time, French boogie joy, that will warm even the coldest hearts.

John then joins Dan at the dials for a cosmic revamp of Love Isaacs 'Surprise Surprise'. A serving of '80s electro-funk, dripping in swagger with a highlife tinge. John and Dan extended the grooves for maximum dancefloor power, space echoing it into the stratosphere at all the juiciest points.

Lastly, Nick takes on Rick Asikpo and Afro Fusion 'Let's Get High' from the super sought- after 1980 album, Got To Be Me. Celestial, gospel- infused soul from Nigeria, Nick homes in on the energetic last 2 minutes of the original as the building block of his 12- minute edit . A completely reworked, feverishly paced creation, Nick switches the sections around, saving the slow, soulful segment for a brilliant cosmic breakdown before the track erupts back into its full flow. Synthesised, jazz-funk elation from start to finish!

TRACK LISTING

Leo Basel - Quelle Drole De Vie (Nick The Record & Dan Tyler Re- Edit)
Love Isaacs - Surprise Surprise (Joao Gomes & Dan Tyler Are Predictably Delayed Rework)
Rick Asikpo And Afro Fusion - Let's Get High (Nick The Record Re-Edit)

The seventh instalment of Mr Bongo's compilation series dedicated to sharing their latest musical discoveries and old favourites from the global stage.

Including a special track from SOYUZ, Asha Puthli and Sven Wonder recorded

"In this collection, we have curated new finds alongside old, treasured tracks that hold a special place in our hearts, selecting music inspiring us from the Brazilian, Latin, soul, disco, gospel, cosmic, dancehall and downtempo genres. We have chosen a diverse array of artists, including Os Panteras from Brazil, stomping underground disco by Claude Jay, the Danish soul sounds of Gitte & Inger and the gospel excellence of Truth & Devotion, to name a few.

Most of the selections in this volume are older vintage productions, however, there is one very special contemporary production, recorded exclusively for Mr Bongo Record Club 7. For 'Spring Has Sprung', we linked three of our cherished musical family together; the legendary cult artist Asha Puthli , the wonderous band SOYUZ and Swedish maestro Sven Wunder. The result, as you'd expect, is completely breathtaking.

Reflecting on Volume 7, it now feels like a record comprised of two themes. Firstly, we have gone quite heavy on the Brazilian selections . This saw us searching further afield and digging into other areas of the endlessly rich Brazilian musical tapestry. The refection of a more folk / Afro- Brazilian sound than presented in previous volumes in the series, can be heard in the songs of As Sublimes, Romeu Fernandes and Conjunto de Percussao Dora Pinto. The second theme is a representation of the tracks that we have been playing in our club DJ sets and are aimed more at the dancefloor. Disco tracks such as 'Come Inside' by The Shades of Love and The Duncans' 'Too Damn Hot' have been firmly tested favourites in recent years.

We hope these songs, by the sensational artists on display, inspire you as much as they do us. Music is the gift that keeps giving and there is so much more to learn, find, and share.exclusively for the compilation."

TRACK LISTING

CD Tracklist:
1. Dudu Moraes - Eloia
2. Yvette - Upa Neguinho
3. As Sublimes - Mangueira E Cancao
4. Os Panteras - O Espaco
5. Chico Evangelista - Frutas & Linguas
6. Roman Andren - Captain's Sword
7. Gitte & Inger - Ud Af Buret (Can't Hide Love)
8. Truth & Devotion - Bless My Soul
9. Judson Moore - Everybody Push And Pull
10. Willy Chirino - Africa
11. Chain Reaction - Search For Tomorrow
12. Claude Jay - Find Your Light
13. The Shades Of Love - Come Inside
14. The Duncans - Too Damn Hot
15. Thandi Zulu & The Young Five - Love Games
16. Tony Wilson - Hangin' Out In Space (Dub Mix)
17. JC Lodge - In Between The Sheets
18. SOYUZ Featuring Asha Puthli & Sven Wunder - Spring Has Sprung

LP Trackslist:
1. Dudu Moraes - Eloia
2. Yvette - Upa Neguinho
3. As Sublimes - Mangueira E Cancao
4. Os Panteras - O Espaco
5. Chico Evangelista - Frutas & Linguas
6. Roman Andren - Captain's Sword
7. Romeu Fernandes - Nago Nae
8. Conjunto De Percussao Dora Pinto - Noite De Temporal
9. Gitte & Inger - Ud Af Buret (Can't Hide Love)
10. Truth & Devotion - Bless My Soul
11. Judson Moore - Everybody Push And Pull
12. Willy Chirino - Africa
13. Chain Reaction - Search For Tomorrow
14. Claude Jay - Find Your Light
15. The Shades Of Love - Come Inside
16. The Duncans - Too Damn Hot
17. Thandi Zulu & The Young Five - Love Games
18. Tony Wilson - Hangin' Out In Space (Dub Mix)
19. JC Lodge - In Between The Sheets
20. SOYUZ Featuring Asha Puthli & Sven Wunder - Spring Has Sprung

The fertility of the Cuban music scene in the 1970s was rich and blooming.

FA-5's self-titled album from 1976 is a perfect example of the energy and vitality emanating from the country's musicians and marks the next release in Mr Bongo's Cuban Classics series. A unique musical fusion that encompasses Latin rock, funk, soul, disco and Afro- Cuban rhythms to form a diverse and alluring album.

The exquisite, funk- fuelled opener , 'Muevete Con Las Fuerzas Del Corazon', is maybe the most-known song on the album. It is a super catchy cut powered by a dynamite bassline, joy- filled horn playing and splashes of drum breaks that will ignite any dancefloor.

The record surfs through genres as it progresses. 'Di Tu Que Haras Sin Mi' and 'Paso Sin Mas' lean back with a West Latin rock / AOR flavour to their grooves. Elsewhere, the dreamy, cosmic, Balearic- tinged 'El Blue' and fuzzy funk- rock breaks of 'Pero Lo Cierto Es Que No Quise Mas' further show the breadth of styles at play on the LP. Another big highlight on the album is the Latin, discofunk sounds of 'Casa De Ladrillo', which morphs into a cover version of the Commodores 'Brick House' . The result is a superb alternative take on a muchloved classic.

Released on the state-owned Areito Records, the album was directed by Nestor Caballero , who arranged the songs alongside Aneiro Tano and Osvaldo Caraballoso . The prolific Tony Tano produced the album with the recording courtesy of Tony Lopez who worked with Juan Pablo Torres, Los Reyes 73, Grupo Los Yoyi, Raul Gomez and many other Cuban greats that we have featured in the Cuban Series.

A fabulous, under-the-radar classic, that will enrich any collection.

TRACK LISTING

Muevete Con Las Fuerzas Del Corazon
Di Tu Que Haras Sin Mi
Paso Sin Mas
El Blue
Casa De Ladrillo
Al Recordar No Dude
Salga Y Baile
Pero Lo Cierto Es Que No Quise Mas

Rio-born, Joyce Moreno, is one of the greatest Brazilian artists of all time The voice, the playing, the writing, they all combine to make her a true allrounder. She possesses the ability to transport, captivate and transcend listeners. With a career that has spanned more than 30 albums and over 50 years, she continues to record and tour the world.

'Aldeia de Ogum' is one of her most well- known songs . With a joyfully jazzy arrangement, building Latin percussion, Brazilian flute and tropical atmosphere, this full- bodied samba smash became an anthem amongst London's DJs and dancers in the Acid Jazz days. A favourite of Patrick Forge and Gilles Peterson, it was regularly spun at their legendary Dingwalls sessions.

Originally featured on her sought after Feminina LP from 1980, it also appears on our 'Essential' Joyce compilation from 1997. The original pressing of this Brazil 45 was the first time the track had been released on 7".

A fellow Rio native, Rosinha was a highly acclaimed composer, arranger and guitarist whoplayed with legends including Baden Powell , Sergio Mendes and Sivuca.

Here we present her stunning cover of the Gershwin classic, 'Summertime'. Rosinha's elegant, instrumental interpretation showcases her majestic guitar playing, and what a player she was! Backed with beautifully arranged, emotiondrenched strings, this track is guaranteed to stir your soul.

'Summertime' is taken from her 1975 RCA LP entitled Um Violao Em Primeiro Plano.The original pressing of this Brazil45 was the first timethe track had been released on 7".

TRACK LISTING

Joyce - Aldeia De Ogum
Rosinha Da Valencia - Summertime

Mr Bongo's Brazil 45's series serves up another pair of Brazilian classics in the form of Rita Lee & Tutti Frutti 'Agora E Moda' and Pete Dunaway 'Supermarket'.

'Agora E Moda' is a psychedelic, disco- boogie- groove monster brought to our attention by Greg Caz and Sean Marquand aka Brazilian Beats Brooklyn . Originally released on Rita Lee's 1978 album Babilonia LP on Som Livre, this sublime track is drenched in squelching guitar licks, funk drums and sensuous cosmic vocal flavours.

Lee was the lead singer of Brazilian psychedelic rock band Os Mutantes and a hugely important figure in the Tropicalia movement . She sadly passed away in 2023 but her legacy well and truly lives on, loved both in and out of the music world.

On the flip side, Pete Dunaway's 'Supermarket' is a rare groove/AOR masterpiece with a killer bassline, swaggering guitar and luscious string section layered with a perfectly delivered English vocal.

Pete Dunaway, real name Otavio Cardosa was a singer, composer, arranger and multi- instrumentalist from Sao Paulo, who spent the majority of his time composing for TV themes and library instrumentals.

TRACK LISTING

Rita Lee & Tutti Frutti - Agora E Moda 
Pete Dunaway - Supermarket

Two classic cuts from Jorge Ben and Miriam Makeba take either side of this Mr Bongo Brazil 45 reissue.

'Xica Da Silva' is one of Jorge Ben's most well-known and well-loved cuts, housed on the legendary Africa Brazil LP that deserves a place in every collection. A magical MPB cut, it instantly transports you to the shores of Rio de Janeiro. With a low- slung funky samba flavour, Ben's absorbing vocal recounts the legend of one of Brazil's oldest black icons.

On the flip side, Miriam Makeba serves up an entrancing, slowed-down, groovedout version of 'Xica da Silva'. A highly influential singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist from South Africa, this low and slow interpretation is doused in strutting guitar, off-beat piano stabs and hypnotic drums providing the perfect platform to let Miriam's vocal shine through.

TRACK LISTING

Jorge Ben - Xica Da Salvi
Miriam Makeba - Xica Da Silva

Two 1980s Brazilian boogie bombs from Sandra de Sa and Equipe Radio Cidade get a remastered reissue as part of Mr Bongo Brazil 45's series

Sandra de Sa's 'Olhos Coloridos' is an '80s MPB/boogie jam, taken from her selftitled 1982 LP on RGE Brazil, that sits perfectly alongside the likes of Tim Maia, Marcos Valle, Robson Jorge and Lincoln Olivetti. No surprise then that Lincoln Olivetti and Robson Jorge feature on the track, backed by some of the members from Banda Black Rio . A joyous combination of funk basslines and dreamy Rhodes that marry with jubilant horns and Sa's incredible vocal tones.

On the B side, Equipe Radio Cidade 'Bons Tempo Sao Paulo (Good Times)' was originally released on a rare promo only 7 inch from 1980. Giving a Brazilian boogie makeover to Good Times by Chic / Rapper's Delight by Sugarhill Gang, the track is voiced by radio DJs from Sao Paulo wishing their listeners a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

This replayed version, heavy on the clavinet with a samba- infused, cuica- laced percussion breakdown, gives a true Brazilian spin on one of the most distinctive melodies out there.

TRACK LISTING

Sandra De Sa - Olhos Coloridos
Equipe Radio Cidade - Bons Tempo Sao Paulo (Good Times)

Continuing the Mr Bongo Cuban Classics Series, they shine a light on Los Reyes 73 and their sensational debut LP from 1975.

The album had multiple different pressings under various titles and artworks, but the music stayed the same and speaks for itself. The group set the bar high with this fiery Afro-Cuban-funk gem, letting loose a vibrant Latin workout combining psych rock trippiness with a heavy dose of deep funk . Elements that fuse to firmly cement this album as a '70s Cuban masterpiece and one of our favourites here at Mr Bongo HQ.

Releasing just two albums and a handful of 7- inch singles, the band were a popular and influential group in Cuba at the time. Since then, they have featured on several compilation albums across the 2000s that have helped raise their profile amongst new audiences worldwide.

Produced by the magical Raul Gomez, the album featured a list of heavyweight Cuban musicians. Directed by Santiago Reyes and Ovidio Guerra , with orchestration from greats including Ricardo Eddy Martinez who also released the much- loved album 'Expreso Ritmico' in 1978 alongside Ignacio Herrera, Mario Valdes and Gilberto Garcia. The album also features the writing prowess of Los Van Van's Miguel Angel Rasalps.

Blending traditional Cuban Son aesthetics with funk influences and psychedelic touches, the music housed within showcases a cosmic fusion that stands up on any modern dancefloor. The scintillating opener 'Grandes Amigos', the tripped out 'Adeoey' and the grooving 'Un Lamento Hecho Cancion' are just a handful of examples that exhibit the sheer musical melting pot of this album.

TRACK LISTING

Grandes Amigos
Ya Ves Te Quedaras
Necesito De Alguien Como Tu
Si, Llego La Primavera
Adeoey
Piensa Que No Has Cambiado
Finalizo Un Amor
Un Lamento Hecho Cancion
Si Llegara Alli
Baila Que Baila Mi Son

To celebrate 10 years of one of London’s most loved underground club nights, Tangent, Mr Bongo are thrilled to launch this new compilation series. Crafted by its two residents, John Gómez and Nick the Record, it aims to transmit a taste of Tangent’s spirit. A party rooted in inclusivity and open-mindedness, whose name captures the spontaneous switches in musical direction that are a defining element of their nights. For the compilation, the pair have cherry-picked a selection of their prized, rare and dancefloor-ready tracks from around the globe, that have soundtracked the past decade of parties.

Friends for close to 20 years, music lovers, record obsessives and internationally renowned DJs in their own right, John and Nick have two lifetimes worth of musical knowledge to draw from. John a long-standing NTS Radio resident and compiler for Music From Memory. Nick one of the UK’s go-to record dealers, resident DJ since the ‘90s at one of Japan’s pioneering parties, Life Force, and co-captain / co-edit-expert of Record Mission with Dan Tyler (Idjut Boys).

In 2014, the pair decided to bring some of Life Force’s grassroots principles to the UK, whilst channelling underground clubbing institution Plastic People’s meticulous attitude to sound. Tangent grew from being a small gathering of friends, to an established fixture in London’s nightlife, whilst always maintaining a strict no guest DJ policy. “As London’s clubs have become increasingly reliant on international guests, we wanted to emphasize the importance of a club night growing through its residents”, John and Nick reflect. With 10 years of the duo at the helm, an intimate connection between DJ and dancefloor has been built, allowing for freedom of expression on both sides of the decks.

Tangent reaches around the globe and across different eras to make connections that stimulate emotional reverberations in the unfamiliar. Where the blissfully Balearic ‘Laberinto’ by Miguel Perikás, goes hand-in-hand with the Cameroonian hip-house of King B.’s ‘Love is Crazy’. The thundering ‘Amek Amek’ by L'Innovateur Djoe Ahmed et le Zoukabyle, rubs shoulders with the soulful Caribbean-influenced touch of Champagn’s ‘Bel Ti Négress’. And Pellegrin El Kady’s afro-cosmic ‘Seiva de Carnaval’, crosses paths with Kajou’s Kompa disco anthem ‘Tet Chajé’.

Tangent’s longevity is in part down to it having always embraced contemporary sounds. The sub-rattling bass of Srirajah Sound System’s stunning Molam dub stepper ‘Si Phan Don Lovers Rock’ and the slow, woozy mantra of leftfield dancehall explorer Androo’s ‘Lyriso’, are two shining examples.

This compilation represents an ongoing dialogue between past and present, transporting listeners to the heart of a pure musical experience, where open minds and open hearts are eager to follow the tangent. 

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Two of London's most decorated and respected music aficionados present a compilation of hits from their long running club night. Including plenty of new tweaks and twists by some well feted friends, as well as new tracks standing proud alongside the old, it's a brilliantly colourful and varied set which really paints a picture of this much celebrated London institution.

TRACK LISTING

1.  Srirajah Sound System - Si Phan Don Lovers Rock Feat. Molam Inteng Keawbuala
2.  PERIKAS - Laberinto
3.  Leo Basel - Quelle Drôle De Vie (Nick The Record & Dan Tyler Re-Edit)
4.  Mac Thornhill - No Way To Control It
5.  King B. - Love Is Crazy
6.  L'Innovateur Djoe Ahmed Et Le Zoukabyle - Amek Amek
7.  Champagn’ - Bel Ti Négress
8.  Androo - Lyriso
9.  Hidrogenesse - La Carta Era Muy Larga (Dub)
10.  Love Isaacs - Surprise Surprise (João Gomes & Dan Tyler Are Predictably Delayed Rework)
11.  Kajou - Tet Chajé 
12.  Conjunto Baluartes - Nira Gongo
13.  Land Shark - Tie Me Up (The Nas-T Version Instrumental)
14.  Rick Asikpo & Afro Fusion - Let’s Get High (Nick The Record Re-Edit)
15.  Pellegrin El Kady - Seiva De Carnaval
16.  Lee Jackson Band - Call On Me
17.  LTA (Love The Action) - What Comes To Ya?
18.  Urban Volcano Sounds - Ame No Uta (Rain Song) (Extended Version)

Next up in Mr Bongo's Groove Merchant Records reissue series, sees an outing for a much-loved and heavily sampled funk/soul/blues album by Junior Parker

Originally issued under the title The Outside Man on Capitol Records in 1970 with an alternative cover, this reissue replicates the Groove Merchant release titled Love Ain't Nothin' But A Business Goin' On featuring the car cover released in 1971. The Mississippi- born, Memphis- based blues singer, harmonica player and songwriter Junior Parker (aka Little Junior Parker) had a stellar career in music. Since the early 1950s he released records on labels such as Duke, Mercury, United Artists Records and more. Sadly though, Parker died at the young age of 39 during surgery on November 18, 1971. Originally released under the alternate title a year before his untimely death, Love Ain't Nothin' But a Business Goin' On is drenched in Parker's trademark buttery vocals and soulful grooves, swaggering between smokey blues, raw funk outings and orchestrated soul ballads (with sublime arrangements by Horace Ott).

The album also features three Beatles cover versions in the form of 'Taxman', 'Lady Madonna' and 'Tomorrow Never Knows'. For 'Taxman', Parker completely reinterprets the song taking into a New Orleans funk realm, a sample of which was used as the main hook line on Cypress Hill's classic 'I Wanna Get High'. Elsewhere, 'Tomorrow Never Knows' is flipped into a tripped- out, psychedelic soul-swamp blues ballad, whilst 'Lady Madonna' is given a funky blues makeover.

As shown with Cypress Hill's use of 'Taxman', since the '70s Parker's legacy has been immortalised for future generations through the deep well of samples that his music has become a source of. Tracks from Love Ain't Nothin' But a Business Goin' On have been sampled by some of the biggest names out there, such as A Tribe Called Quest, DJ Shadow and De La Soul.

A seriously smooth album oozing with soul and emotion from a Blues Hall of Fame inductee, Junior Parker's Love Ain't Nothin' But A Business Goin' On is a superb example of the early '70s crossover funk/soul sound.

TRACK LISTING

Love Ain't Nothing But A Business Goin' On
The Outside Man
Darling Depend On Me
Taxman
Rivers Invitation
I Wonder Where Our Love Has Gone
Just To Hold My Hand
You Know I Love You
Lady Madonna
Tomorrow Never Knows

Mr Bongo proudly presents the debut album from Tasmania-born, Melbourne-based, Finn Rees.

Gliding across a swirling palette of saturated hues, Dawn Is A Melody feels vintage yet vibrant, new but familiar at the same time. A spiritual, deep and textured jazz record, tipping its hat to greats from the past, capturing memories and reformulating them into new ideas with the help of some of Melbourne's finest talent.

Expert keys player for the likes of 30/70 and Elle Shimada, alongside one-half of Close Counters, this debut LP was Finn's conscious departure from the realm of groove-based jazz. Instead, Dawn Is A Melody places the piano and arrangements centre stage, giving Finn and his fellow Melbourne crew freedom to explore the spaces in between, new emotions and alternate soundscapes.

The album arcs between opening, middle and end. Beginning with the optimism of 'Looking Up' and 'Lagoon', the former a celestial, string and harp marbled slice of positivity, the latter a spiritual journey of exuberance and hope, Finn's fingers dancing across the '70s Yamaha grand piano . From there the songs blossom outwards with the cinematic soulful journey of 'It's Behind Me Now' and Brazilianinspired 'Expansion', as the divine 'Crossing' signals a transition to a new realm. The energy is transformed from the rich cosmic textures to a more intimate and personal feeling with 'Ablaze', 'Between Spaces' and 'As It Passes' which blissfully fades down to simply piano and strings to close out the record.

Recorded at Rolling Stock in Collingwood, Melbourne, Henry Jenkins was drafted in as recording and mix engineer, his minimal vintage mic setups giving a live aesthetic and warmth to the arrangements. Lucky Pereira and Blakely McLean Davies form the rock- solid rhythm section, with a hand- picked line- up of other Melbourne talent on display, including Cheryl Durongpitikul on tenor sax, Siwei Wong on harp, Audrey Powne on trumpet and Allysha Joy on vocals to name only a few.

Plotting a course from Alice Coltrane, through Herbie Hancock, to Arthur Verocai, this is a debut nourished by the past but firmly made in the present. A record unable to be age-stamped, casting ambiguity as to when, what era and by whom it has been crafted. Like a vintage lens capturing a current scene, Dawn Is A Melody is warm and familiar yet focused on the here now.

For fans of Alice Coltrane, Herbie Hancock and Arthur Verocai.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: Moving tastefully between frenetic lounge jazz and shimmering spiritual business, offering many a moment of sublime weirdness amongst the richly orchestral backdrop, and resulting in a varied but hugely satisfying end result.

TRACK LISTING

Looking Up
Lagoon
Horizons
It's Behind Me Now
Expansion
End Of The Line
Crossing
Ablaze
Between Spaces
As It Passes

For this offering, originally released in 1972 on Toshiba Records, Akira Ishikawa takes us on a deep tripped- out journey. 'Uganda (Dawn of Rock)' is a fusion of progressive and psych rock with African percussion workouts, dergy- wah wah blues-funk, and jazzy sensibilities; with different genres morphing and uniting as they progress.A long way from his funk and afrobeat album 'Back To Rhythm', reissued on Mr Bongo in 2019, this record has a darker, deeper, abstract and experimental stoned tone with the listener being pulled into its vortex for the ride. This record doesn't pull any punches.

For this album, Akira is joined by Hideaki Chihara on bass, guitarist Kimio Mizutani, sounding at times like an early 70s Peter Green, percussionist Larry Sunaga and composer Takeru Muraoka.

The album has become highly sought- after amongst psych, prog and acid rock collectors and due to the rare nature of original copies they come at a hefty price tag.

We are delighted to present an officially licensed re- issue of this underground Japanese rock rarity.

TRACK LISTING

1. Wanyamana Mapambazuko
2. Na Tu Penda Sana
3. Vita
4. Pygmy

For the second instalment in our Cuban Classics series, we proudly present this sought-after slice of sublime Afro-Cuban jazz from 1976. It comes courtesy of one of Cuba's most influential acts, Grupo Irakere. Foundedin 1973 by Chucho Valdes (son of the Cuban pianist and bandleader Bebo Valdes) the group was home to many of Cuba's finest musicians over the years. With an electrifying style and sound, they mixed traditional Cuban music with jazz, funk, and rock.

This self-titled album includes the much-loved, dancefloor heavy-hitter 'Chequere-Son', a Latin- jazzfunk masterpiece with Cubanized bebop- flavoured horn lines, lush keys, and '70s hip swagger.

Though 'Chequere- Son' is the keystone of the record, the album is laced with brilliance at every turn, from the Carlos Santanaesque channelling 'Iya' with its percussive Latin power, to the sultry, slick and passionate '38 1/2'. Elsewhere, the absorbing, ever- building energy of 'Juana 1600' and steamy vocal dancer 'Xiomara' are also highlights of this incredible album.

Pressed on Cuba's state led Areito Records, the album was well received internationally, garnering distribution in Finland on Love Records, in Italy on Phase 6 Super Stereo, and also in the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Venezuela. A cherished Afro-Cuban triumph, this album has been crying out for a reissue and we're delighted to make that happen.

TRACK LISTING

1. Chequere- Son
2. 38 1/2
3. En Nosotros
4. Juana 1600
5. Moja El Pan
6. Este Camino Largo
7. Xiomara
8. Iya

This Brazilian library funk beauty is the soundtrack to Carlos Imperial's 1975 film of the same title. Echoing European soundtrack maestros such as Roy Budd and Ennio Morricone, but with a Brazilian swagger, Ze Rodrix's score is a sublime gem that needs rediscovery.

Rich in 70's soundtrack cool, the score is packed with orchestrated jazz, chase scene- funk, breaks, psychedelic freakouts and plenty of drama. The loose and quirky break- beat jazz- funk of 'Assalto' feels almost tailor- made for today's hiphop production aesthetic. The opening drum break of 'Esconderijo' is a sampler's dream and has already been reinterpreted by the Turkish Rapper Anil Piyanci, as well as Brazil's DJ Caique.

Carlos Imperial wrote liner notes and was an actor, filmmaker, television presenter, and media figure. His film 'O Esquadrao da Morte' is a violent heist movie starring Beto Bandeira, Claire Chevalier, and Baby Conceicao; in the vein of exploitation films and gritty, raw B- Movie cinema of the day. Both the film and album share striking, macabre artwork by artist Benicio. The instrumentalist, arranger, and singer- songwriter Ze Rodrix has worked with the cream of Brazilian music, having written songs covered by the greats, including Quarteto Em Cy, Ronald Mesquita, Elis Regina, Karma, and Celia, to name just a few. His written arrangements have graced the music of Luli Lucinha E O Bando and Helio Matheus. He was a member of the iconic group Som Imaginario and played piano and synthesizer on Secos & Molhado's classic 1973 album.

Mr. Bongo are super pleased to make this dusty treasure available again. It is a wonderful soundtrack score that more than holds its own with its European and American counterparts of the era.

TRACK LISTING

1. Esquadrao Da Morte
2. Um Homem E Um Homem E Um Homem 
3. Chorinho Pro Tio
4. Tema De Amor
5. Bolero De Mangaratiba
6. Motoqueiros 
7. Mundo!
8. Assalto
9. Esconderijo
10. Rhumba

A fusion of traditional Latin and Afro-Cuban rhythms meets disco, jazz, and funk, with hints of 70s soundtrack productions, this much- loved cult album featuring nine predominantly instrumental tracks is a real treasure that deserves a much wider appreciation. One look at the trippy artwork and you know it is going to be special.

Originally released in 1977 on Areito Records, a sub-label of the state-owned label Egrem, it has become one of the rarest (even in Cuba) and most in- demand albums to come from the label. It is the sole album from Grupo Los Yoyi and was composed, orchestrated, and produced by the mysterious, Jorge Soler Leo.

After Castro ring-fenced Cuba with an embargo on, among other things, Western music, the 'Yoyi' album had a sound more left of centre than what was normally allowed to be recorded there at the time. It subtly and covertly flirts with disco, jazz-funk, and electronic sounds coming from the US and Europe. It is probably best known for the space funk, bubbly club cut 'Paco La Calle'. A track that was edited in 2008 by the fantastic DJ / producer, Nick the Record, and one that is guaranteed to set a discerning dancefloor alight. However, 'Yoyi' is far from a onetrack album. Other highlights include, 'Banana', with its call and response trombone and horn section, squelchy keys, pulsating breaks and percussion, and a loose, floating vocal arrangement. 'Tu No Me Puedes Conquistar' is a beautiful, bouncing plodder with a variety of instruments interchanging as the track progresses. 'Ruta 30' takes things in a straighter Latin direction, which we are accustomed to from Cuba at that time, yet it is still full of personality, treats and vigour. Take our word for it, this album is strong throughout.

This is one of our favourites and most beloved albums to come out of Cuba and is the perfect flagship for our Cuban Classics Series. Look out for plenty more to come real soon.

TRACK LISTING

Minas 'Num Dia Azul' is a sublime slice of private press bossa nova meets jazzy MPB perfection.

Warm and bubbling with youthful spirit, the music is simultaneously loose in swagger, yet slick and tight. The album was originally released in 1983 and reflects the great music coming out of Rio at the time, yet 'Num Dia Azul' wasn't recorded in Rio, but actually in the USA.

Recorded in North Carolina just after Patricia and Orlando Haddad had graduated from the North Carolina School of the Arts, the record was only released for the Brazilian market on their own Blueazul Records imprint. As with most private press labels, they could only afford to have it pressed in small quantities. To add to its later obscurity, hundreds of copies were also destroyed in a house fire. They say cream always rises to the top, and fast forward to the 2010s, the word amongst collectors and DJs was spreading about this mythical under-the-radar recording. People from across the globe were contacting Patricia and Orlando for more information, hoping to secure themselves a copy. Luckily the original tapes had remained with the artists and were in great condition, so in 2016 the pair ran a successful Kickstarter campaign to have it remastered and repressed.

For this Mr Bongo 2023 re-issue, we have tried to keep it as close to the original 1983 version as possible, both in the packaging and audio presentation. The CD version comes with bonus tracks. We are super proud to keep Patricia and Orlando's serene recordings in the circulation that they deserve to be. One for fans of Brazilian artists such as Burnier & Cartier, Edu Lobo and Joyce. We are sure those fans will lose themselves in the alluring textures of 'Num Dia Azul'.

Lush, private press bossa nova & jazzy MPB from 1983.

For fans of Burnier & Cartier and Joyce. Audio.

TRACK LISTING

Num Dia Azul
Sinal Verde
So Danco Samba
Calma Mulher
Cancao Da Chuva
Samba Walk
Choro Sambaiao
Ipanema (1981)
Samba Walk (1981)

With two critically acclaimed albums and a swathe of award-winning production turns under their belt, Ana Frango Eletrico present their most confident and accomplished work to date: "Me Chama De Gato Que Eu Sou Sua / Call Me They That I'm Yours"

Gesturing to a tradition of Brazilian boogie music, but bouncing with modern pop ebullience, the album sees the Rio artist evolve from a captivating upstart into a surefooted scene leader in full stride.

At just 25, the prolific artist and producer has already garnered worldwide admirers. Ana's sophomore "Little Electric Chicken Heart" was nominated at the 2020 Latin Grammys. Since then, standalone singles have received the WME Best Music Producer Award, recognising Ana's deep passion for music production - a passion which has led to collaborations with nascent Brazilian stars Dora Morelenbaum, Illy and Sophia Chablau. Most recently, Ana was hailed for their co-production of Bala Desejo's 2022 Latin Grammy-winning album "Sim Sim Sim".

The new album finds Ana at their most assured and full voiced. Album opener "Electric Fish", with funky bass and shimmering backing vocals, sets a buoyant tone. "Boy of Stranger Things" is its bombastic counterpart. It's the grooviest Ana has ever sounded. And the most brazen. Lyrically, where Ana was once oblique on personal matters, they are now forthright - lucidly exploring their gender identity, citing accessible cultural references, and often singing in English.

'I started this album in 2021 with the intention of showing, in means of sound, understandings and feelings about queer love, subjectively exposing myself,' the non- binary artist states - before qualifying that though 'feeling was its driving force, the album is really about musical production.'

'There's so many references to different decades,' Ana explains. 'Seventies drums with eighties processing ... Going back, getting beyond ... Testing the limits of organic sounds'. Characteristically playful, on Me Chama, Ana takes vivid and rewarding detours through funk-inflected R&B ("Dela") and art pop ("Dr. Sabe Tudo"). "Nuvem Vermelha" is a cinematic chanson with lush strings that recalls Arthur Verocai. Then, "Coisa Maluca" loafs with the indie insouciance of Canadian slacker Mac Demarco. Later, "Let's Go Before Again", is a full-on drum machine workout evocative of Stereolab.

TRACK LISTING

Electric Fish
Dela
Nuvem Vermelha
Coisa Maluca
Boy Of Stranger Things
Camleo Azul
Insista Em Mim
Let's Go To Before Again
Debaixo Do Pano
Dr. Sabe Tudo

The Brazilian composer, pianist and producer, Mario Castro Neves and his group, Samba S A's self-titled album from 1967 is oozing with class.

It possesses that archetypal 60's bossa nova, jazz, samba sound. We'd place it up there with Sergio Mendes at his finest, Tambo Trio or Milton Banana. It's a breezy ride that touches on easy listening at times, but it holds it together with a cool swagger. Biba and Thais Do Amaral's vocals are on point, with a relaxed delivery that compliments the tracks with the sublime beauty a la vocal groups such as Quarteto Em Cy, who Biba also sang with, as well as with Antonio Adolfo's e A Brazuca. Also appearing on the record is bassist extraordinaire, Novelli who worked with Milton Nascimento, Nelson Angelo E Joyce, Airto, and many of the greats of Brazilian music of the time.

The album has long been a favourite with DJs and collectors over the years, with songs selected for compilations by Gilles Peterson and Nicola Conte. One of the centrepieces of the album, 'Candomble', has been sampled by Cut Chemist on his track 'Povo De Santo'. The song 'Nana' is punchy and light with dancefloor- jazz appeal. The gloriously catchy 'Vem Balancar' is a brilliant bossa shuffler. A superb listen throughout, the album sticks to a framework but delivers in spades.

Though released on the major- label RCA Victor, original copies are elusive, sought-after items with a price tag to match. For this reissue, we have opted for the Mono master, mirroring the original 1967 Brazilian pressing. Instantly familiar, the album has a welcoming feeling of nostalgia and is something that stays with you from the first listen.

A sublime bossa nova and samba rarity from 1967.

Includes 'Candomble', as sampled by Cut Chemist.

For fans of early Sergio Mendes and Quarteto em Cy.

TRACK LISTING

Candomble
Yearning Lovers
Nana
De Brincadeira
Bye Bye Blackbird
E Nada Mais
Keep Talking
Vem Balancar
Once More
Morte De Um Deus De Sal
Ta Por Fora
Corcovado

Compiling the follow-up to a very successful first album is always a tricky task, but just 12 months since the release of volume one in the 'With Love' series, miche has excelled himself once again with another glorious, deep dive into the world of rare soul0

15 tracks of independently released music, created by magnificent artists with stories to tell and primed for rediscovery.

The ambition to celebrate under-the-radar artists has remained, but instead of a facsimile of volume one, what we have here is a selection shaped by life changes. Volume two is for the dancers; still soulful, still ultra- rare and slept- on records from the USA, Chile, Brazil and beyond, but the dynamics of the collection have shifted slightly. It represents a move from being immersed in a week in week out environment of beautiful, soulful music in a cosy, dimly lit hi- fi bar to playing livelier, more energetic, dancefloor-focused music in nightclubs. This volume will get you on your feet, make you move and unleash whatever it is that makes you get down.

One of the jewels in the crown of this compilation is a joyous, anthemic gospel version of Stevie Wonder's 'As' by The Family Tree (a project produced by the fantastic Julius Brockington). We are also treated to a rare and sought- after Pennsylvanian funk / AOR bomb by Maxwell, a stunning modern soul tune 'High On You' by Freedom, and self-released Brazilian 45s by Banda 22 and Ze Da Lata. P.J. City's 'Straight Forward (Non- Stop)' is gospel- disco perfection, and we also have 'Dame Solamente Amor', a sublime, soul beauty from Chile by Rogers Mitchell. Many of these artists featured in this compilation aren't household names, but they deserve their moment to shine, to be heard, loved and appreciated for their artistry.

As miche says it, "I hope this compilation helps in some way to keep this glorious music alive and play a part in connecting generations of music lovers from the worldwide soul family. As always, it has been made 'With Love'."

A connoisseur's selection of lost and rare modern soul, disco gospel, boogie, jazzy AOR, and Brazilian gems.

TRACK LISTING

Billy Boomer - I Like What She's Doing
P.J. City - Straight Forward (Non-Stop)
Maxwell - Realize
Cecil Lyde - I'll Make It On My Own
Mixed Generation Enterprize - Take To The Sky
Mark Meadows - You And Me
Alice Cohen & Fun City - Save The Best 'Til Last
Banda 22 - A Luz Que Brilha Meu Viver
Ze Da Lata - Misterio Brilhante
Rogers Mitchell - Dame Solamente Amor
The Eleventh Commandment - Then I Reach Satisfaction
Billy Boomer - You Can't Hide
Freedom - High On You
The Lost Family - Blow My Mind
The Family Tree - As 

Daniel Ogren is one of the key artists in Sweden's contemporary, underground music scene. He has already accrued quite the back catalogue, both as a member of the sensational quartet Dina Ogon and also as a solo artist with eight albums already under his belt.

'Fastingen-92' was originally released as a limited-edition vinyl pressing in 2020 on the independent label Sing A Song Fighter Records (the same label that first introduced us to Dina Ogon's music). The album came to our attention after hearing Daniels' solo band performing live at the Stockholm Jazz Club, Fasching. The band featured Love Orsan and Christopher Cantillo of Dina Ogon fame (who also records with the incredible Sven Wunder), and their sensational genrebusting set blew us away. It convinced us that this now out-of-print album needed to reach a wider audience.

'Fastingen-92' doesn't sit in one genre, it draws from Daniels's love of South American folk music, soul, Nordic folk music and film soundtracks, resulting in something unique, dreamlike and transformational.

It features 'Idag', an epic, beautiful, cinematic song that introduces the ethereal vocalist Anna Ahnlund. 'Idag' has gained a cult following and Daniel has stated that it was the spark that started the Dina Ogon project. Tracks like 'Annalena' and 'Kristinehamn by Night (for Christopher)' sound like a new club sound that hasn't yet been invented (which Nicola Cruz would spin in his DJ sets), mysterious, hypnotic, and engaging. Other songs like 'Maj (for Tintin)' and 'Picasso' venture into blissed- out Scando- Balearic realms. Daniel's love of nature and the inspiration he draws from the geographic environment of the Swedish countryside can be felt in these tracks, they take you to other places and times and are simultaneously familiar, ancient and alien.

Alongside the collaborations with Anna and Christoper, the album features Josefin Runsteen playing the drums on 'Idag' and Swedish musicians Edvin Nahlin and Ulrik Ordin. The majority of the album was played, recorded and mixed by Daniel. For the Mr Bongo edition, we have added the bonus track 'April' which was previously only available digitally. 'Fastingen - 92' is a truly remarkable record that gets into your soul, so please delve in!

TRACK LISTING

Annalena
Hjalmarsfjorden
Idag
Kristinehamn By Night (for Christopher)
Maj (For Tintin)
Picasso
Levi
Oktober (For Lo)
April

In partnership with London-based DJ and digger, Miche, the series will feature his latest discoveries, as well as choice cuts, taken from his 'With Love' compilations. For the inaugural offering, we take a trip to hazy San Francisco, California, in 1977. Smoke, Inc. were an emerging band in the Greater San Francisco Bay area and a regular fixture in the buzzing live music scene. They had a strong following and were in rotation in most of the Bay area clubs, as well as opening for numerous prestigious acts such as Sly & The Family Stone, Taj Mahal, The Pointer Sisters and Toots and The Maytals. Members of the group worked with Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Wonder, Frank Zappa, Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, and many others considered the cream of the crop of the music world.

Smoke, Inc. featured Roy Schmall on keyboards and vocals, Stan Terry on lead vocals and harmonica, Michael 'Ollie' Schotka, on bass and vocals, Keith Stafford on drums and vocals, and Archie Williams Jr on guitar. They went on to release one 12" EP and two 7" singles. One of those 7's included 'Waitin' For Love'. It was first released in 1977 and came out on the band's own self-titled imprint. It has gone on to become their rarest and most sought-after recording, now fetching up to an astonishing GBP2,500 on Discogs. It is a breezy, feel- good, modern/ crossover soul beauty, with an infectious sing-along chorus, floaty flute solo, and packed with pure, uplifting dancefloor energy. The B-side features a cover version of the Holland Dozier & Holland- penned classic 'It's the Same Old Song', made famous by the Four Tops.

Miche enthuses, "I included this gem on my first 'With Love' compilation and knew that it deserved its own dedicated reissue complete with original artwork. I'm delighted to get the chance to make that happen for this incredible, soulful AOR glide from a band that is well due another round of appreciation. It's very rare, and consequently very expensive, so here it is for you all to spin and add to your record collections."

46 years since its original release, it is our privilege to help Roy and the gang's light shine once again and let a whole new audience relish the beautiful sounds of 'Waitin' For Love'.

TRACK LISTING

Waitin' For Love
It's The Same Old Song

A pianist, songwriter, producer, and vocalist from New York he is a mystical figure for record collectors, one of those artists where if you found an old dusty record with Don's name on it, you'd buy it on sight. He is best known for his 1982 magnum-opus, the eponymous album that featured the all-time classics 'Heart's Desire' and 'Holding You, Loving You'. He also collaborated with other greats such as Bernard Wright, Weldon Irvine, Roy Ayers, and Lenny White.

We couldn't believe it when Chicago DJ/ digger/ producer, Marc Davis, told us there was a vault of unreleased Don Blackman material. Marc had reached out to Don's children, Irene and Kyle, in 2019, building a relationship with Kyle with whom he shared a musical affinity. To Marc's delight, Kyle confirmed that there was indeed a treasure trove. As Kyle described it, "In 2013, shortly after my dad's passing, my sister and I collected all of his possessions and put them in a storage unit. I came across forty years' worth of music history. Hundreds of cassettes, CDs, Disks, reel- to- reels, paperwork, photos and VHS tapes. It took about ten years to organise and digitise everything. All of this magic was almost thrown away in the trash, never to be seen, never to be heard forever."

Two tracks were selected, 'Your Love Makes Me Crazy' and 'Say You'll Be Mine'. 'Your Love Makes Me Crazy' is as funky as it gets, with infectiously catchy vocal hooks, and a serious jam, whereas 'Say You'll Be Mine' is a classy, soulful boogie, instrumental number, that shows off Don's masterful piano playing. Both tracks warrant full attention and capture a master at work. He was also a one-man show when it came to production, playing all of the instruments when recording these tunes in his home studio in South Jamaica, Queens.

On first hearing the tracks, Marc knew he wanted to extend the songs and enlisted fellow Chicago legend, Tone B. Nimble, to work on the project with him. Their extension/ edit of the songs was conducted in a way that was respectful and true to how the tracks were originally recorded by Don. They extended and resequenced the groovy parts of the songs organically for the DJs and dancers.

The final words on this release are best coming from Kyle, "We are very excited and thrilled to continue to share all of this unreleased magic with the world. We hope that this music will help, heal, and inspire a new generation of artists to never give up, and to strive for what their hearts desire."

TRACK LISTING

Say You'll Be Mine
Your Love Makes Me Crazy

We are proud to present the Mr Bongo pressing of Guilherme Coutinho E O Grupo Stalo's self-titled mythical album.

Blending lo- fi, Brazilian tropicalia, jazz, funk and MPB with a unique aroma, this record is pure perfection.It was originally released in 1978 on Erla - Estudio Rauland, an obscure record label from Belém in Brazil, that only released 7" singles, with this album being one of two exceptions. During the 1970s, Belém had a thriving nightclub scene, but it is thousands of miles away from the music industry hubs of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, making this record insanely difficult to find, even in Brazil. Added to the scarcity factor is the magical nature of the recording, which has naturally resulted in a hefty price tag to match. Original copies have become a prized, collector's item.

The elusive Brazilian band leader and keyboard player, Guilherme Coutinho is a true cult artist. He passed away in 1983, at the age of just 41, and during his career he only seems to have appeared on a handful of marvellous records, which makes them all the more special. This album feels individualistic and distinctive from other albums of the day. Listening back to vocalist Elinho's (aka Hélio Rubens de Oliveira) delivery, it sounds not too dissimilar to some of Belle & Sebastian's songs. 'Guilherme Coutinho E O Grupo Stalo' is rich in charm, quirky and playful. It feels cinematic, soothing and benefits from being heard in its entirety. A proper album experience.

A mythical album from 1978, blending Lo-Fi Brazilian tropicalia, jazz, funk and MPB to unique perfection.

A prized, collector's item.

TRACK LISTING

Atalaia
As Feras
Foicera
Rio Corrente
Macareu
Fuga
Flauta de Bambu
Tema Pro Alvarito

É Soul Cultura Vol. 1 seemed to land at exactly the right moment. Post-lockdown, optimism was back on the rise and the dance floors swelled again. For many listeners, Manchester based DJ Luke Una's intriguingly woven pattern of new, old, rare and under-discovered music from around the world became the soundtrack to rejuvenated positivity. Piccadilly Records (that's us!) made the release their top compilation of the year, with Rough Trade placing it as their number two. The enthusiasm from the industry was mirrored by record buyers and demonstrated that in the right hands, moving through genres, tempos and decades can make perfect musical sense.

This second volume gives another opportunity for Luke to share his journey of the past four decades of staying up late and getting transcendental whilst listening to holy grail music as the city slept. It at times ventures into the deeper, spiritual, soulful, downtempo, experimental aspects of his tastes. From the conscious, street soul fusion gospel of Veronica Mickie's 'Lost Children', to an excursion into Swiss, psych, progressive rock in the form of Pyranha, then onto the classic Indian music-inspired electronic workout of Andi Otto's 'Bangalore Whispers'. Luke hints at his softer side in Avis; a sweet, obscure cover version of Minnie Riperton's 'Baby, This Love I Have', as well as championing local heroes in the shape of Manchester's Yargo and their driving, obscure, proto-house belter, 'Marimba'. There's also Japanese, electronic, slo-mo heaviness from 1979, courtesy of Bach Revolution. House music is integral to the É Soul sound and is represented by Nav Aktah's deep remix of Mr Scruff, and then there's Isis 'In Essense'; a track of such majestic brilliance that it has never left Luke's record bag.

The selection is eclectic, global, and plucked from different times and spaces. In theory, perhaps they shouldn't work together, but there is a mysterious link that makes them gel as a whole. That's what Luke does best. He creates a sort of musical alchemy, unifying the diverse.

STAFF COMMENTS

Barry says: There's a reason Luke's first compilation was such a massive hit in the shop, and Volume 2 takes all of the afterparty energy of the first and stretches the outer limits of the sound field into more spiritual, off-piste excursions. Perfectly collated, researched and presented.

TRACK LISTING

Real Thing - Children Of The Ghetto
Avis - Baby, This Love I Have 
Veronica Mickie - Lost Children
Rare Silk - Storm (Arp Duppy Chip Mix)
LFO - Shove Piggy Shove
Bach Revolution - D.E 108
Andi Otto - Bangalore Whispers (feat. MD Pallavi)
Unnayanaa & Irfan Rainy Feat Ibtisam - Taht Min Aini (Alberghina Remx)*
Michael De Albuquerque - We May Be Cattle But We All Got Names
Pyranha - Clepsydre
Yargo - Marimba
Okyerema Asante & Black Fire - Play A Sweet Rhythm On Them Drums (feat. Plunky)
Mr. Scruff Feat. Nke - Giffin (Taken Re-edit Speechless Dub Mix)
Isis - In Essense
Frank Hatchett - Malibu Nites

* Vinyl Only Track.

A band who are at the forefront of Rio de Janeiro's artistic renaissance, they channel influences of Brazilian 60s Tropicália, 70s psychedelia and MPB to create a nostalgic, yet joyfully, avant-garde sound. The band is comprised of four distinct characters, each one an incredible talent in their own right and each with impressive credentials in the Brazilian Independent music scene. Central to the resurgent Rio de Janeiro musical community, the quartet of Dora Morelenbaum, Julia Mestre, Lucas Nunes and Zé Ibarra thrive in a group dynamic. They formed Bala Desejo to play collaboratively for a festival date in 2021, but when that show became a victim of pandemic shutdowns the idea for an album project materialised.

'Sim Sim Sim', which translates into English as 'Yes Yes Yes', weaves through a fusion of genres, taking twists and turns as it progresses. There is Tropicália, MPB, rock, samba-canção soul-funk and reggae in the mix. It possesses many of the qualities of a classic album from Brazilian music's golden era of the 60s and 70s, but also manages to sound very now, which is not an easy task to pull off. As solo musicians, they have worked and collaborated with Brazilian icons Gal Costa, Caetano Veloso and Milton Nascimento to name but a few. Bala Desejo feels like a natural extension of what came before, taking the baton from these luminaries, adding their unique spin and moving the sound forward. When we first heard Bala Desejo, we were blown away. Their epic theatrical live shows leave audiences stunned and they are the band we had always been hoping to find. A modern- day Novos Baianos or Mutantes, but definitely not an imitation. They celebrate their influences, but are an innovative group, and consequently, they have created one of the finest records to come out of Brazil in recent years. A truly sensational debut!

TRACK LISTING

1. Embala Pra Viagem
2. Baile De Mascaras (Recarnaval)
3. Lua Comanche
4. Clama Floresta
5. Dourado Dourado
6. Nana Del Caballo Grande
7. Nesse Sofa
8. Lambe Lambe
9. Passarinha
10. Sim Sim Sim
11. Muito So
12. Cronografia (O Peixe)

Jorge Ben is surely one of the world's greatest all-round musical artists He is internationally renowned and vastly influential as a vocalist, musician, performer and phenomenal songwriter. Famed for penning 'Taj Mahal', which was the source for Rod Stewart's 'Do You Think I'm Sexy?', and also 'Mas Que Nada', one of Brazil's most iconic anthems, Jorge Ben is a powerful musical force. A simple glance at his impressive back catalogue reveals a master of his craft, with a depth and quality that is seldom paralleled. For 'Tudo Ben' we take a side-step, focusing on Jorge Ben's songs that have been performed by other artists. Complied by Mr Bongo, Greg Caz and Sean Marquand, this collection features the Brazilian legends Elza Soares, Claudette Soares, and Wilson Simonal, alongside prodigious artists such as Marijô, Os Brazoes, and Doris Monteiro to name but a few. The selection covers a wide range of genres including samba, bossa nova, MPB and batacuda workouts. Many of the songs featured have become staples in Mr Bongo DJ sets over the years and are some of our most loved classics. As with many of history's great songwriters, Jorge Ben's songs transcend genres and styles, they can be covered and reinterpreted, yet the quality of the writing holds up to the standard of the original. In the dark days of the mid to late 2000s when the end of vinyl seemed inevitable, Mr Bongo released 'Tudo Ben' on CD only. Years later, they finally get to put this right and present it for the first time on vinyl with alternative artwork by Mr Krum.

TRACK LISTING

Tracks: Salinas - Tenha Fé, Pois Amanhã Um Lindo Dia Vai Nascer
Elza Soares - Pulo, Pulo
Sonia Santos - Speed
Osmar Milito - Rita Jeep
Wilson Simonal - Zazueira
Osmar Milito - Quem Mandou
Doris Monteiro - Se Você
Quiser Mas Sem Bronquear
Wilson Simonal - Que Pena
Osmar Milito - Morre O Burro, Fica O Homem
Os Originais Do Samba - Lá Vem Salgueiro
Os Brazões - Carolina, Carol Bela
Wilson Simonal - Crioula
Claudette Soares - Eles Querem É Amar
Os Incríveis - Vendedor De Bananas
Wilson Simonal - Brasil, Eu Fico
Cyro Aguiar - Rei Do Maracatu
Wilson Simonal - Resposta
Elza Soares - Mas Que Nada
Wilson Simonal - País Tropical
Os Originais Do Samba - Cadê Tereza
Marijô - Fio Maravilha
Os Originais Do Samba - Tenha Fé, Pois Amanhã Um Lindo Dia Vai Nascer
Os Brazões - Que Maravilha
Os Mutreteiros Grilados - Cosa Nostra
Os Originais Do Samba - Falador Passa Mal

This one takes us back! We originally reissued Waltel Branco's 'Meu
Balanço' in 1995, it was one of the frst releases to come out on Mr Bongo
It is a much-requested title with original copies becoming ever more-scarce and the price tag increasingly rising, so it feels ftting to present this stunning record once again for all to enjoy. Waltel Branco was born in Paranaguá, Brazil in 1929 and died in Rio de Janeiro in 2018. During his triumphant career he accumulated an impressive musical portfolio. A true maestro who from the 1950s onwards appeared on productions as a guitarist, writer, conductor, composer, and arranger. He worked with some of the greats of Brazilian music including Elis Regina, Dom Um Romao, Bossa Três, Marcos Valle and Tony Bizarro to name just a few. 'Meu Balanço' was originally released on CBS Records Brazil in 1975. It is Brazilian big band, orchestrated jazz-funk at its finest. Echoing the library and film productions created in Europe and the USA at the time, it also displays the hallmarks of Waltel's heritage with distinct threads of Brazilian favour running throughout. The musicians on the record include under- the- radar players that were the backbone of the Brazilian music industry in the 1970s including Luizão Maia on bass, Edmundo Maciel on trombone and Paulinho Braga on drums. The album firts between jazz-funk, cinematic library excursions, breaks and beats, easy- listening, and 70s cop show instrumentals. It is a breezy ride into Waltel's world, wonderfully nostalgic and of another time and place, yet snippets of the production echo the beats of contemporary hip-hop iconic artists such as Madlib, knxwledge and The Alchemist. Brazilian jazz-funk at its finest from an iconic composer.

TRACK LISTING

1. Luar Do Sertão
2. Sonho No Céu
3. Meu Balanco
4. Lady Samba
5. Apenas Um Coração Solitário
6. Jael
7. Walking
8. Satiricon
9. Carmen
10. Meiguice
11. Petit Fils
12. Zoraia

Originally released under the title 'Samba Esporte Fino', its release and
subsequent international acclaim dovetailed with Seu Jorge's ascent into movie stardom. He is probably best known outside of Brazil for his work on Wes Anderson's 2004 flm 'The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou', in which he played a starring role and his Portuguese covers of David Bowie records were a highlight of the soundtrack. Having initially found fame thanks to his standout performance as Knockout Ned in the revered movie 'City of God'. 'Carolina' would cement his global fame and launch an illustrious musical career that has earnt him a Grammy nomination. Co-produced by Mario Caldatto of Beastie Boys and Planet Hemp fame, the album presented a vibrant, contemporary combination of samba and funk, backed by guitar, bass, drums, percussion, and horns. It kicks off with one of Seu's most loved tracks 'Carolina', an anthemic feel-good classic with timeless energy, ending in a sing-along crescendo. Other highlights included the Brazilian- Funk of 'Mangueira' reminiscent in places of Tim Maia with its 80s inspired vibe, and the catchy jazzy-samba of 'Tu Queria' which always ignites the dance foor.

The enticing and exotic samba 'Redondo Sambao' is pure Brazilian fire. With beautiful female vocal-group arrangements, floating flutes and vibrating rhythms, this song oozes charm. Its only downside being that it is over far too soon. Originally released in 1967 on a compact 7" on the Som Maior imprint, to our knowledge, the group sadly only had a couple of releases. 'Brasileiro' is taken from Jorginho Telles' self- titled 1971 album and also featured on a 7", both released on Copacabana Records. The track switches between a hoarse male vocal crooner and a rough and raw psych-guitar, RnB dancer: totally magic!

TRACK LISTING

1. As Meninas - Redondo Sambao
2. Jorginho Telles - Brasileiro

Rubinho E Mauro Assumpção's 'Perfeitamente, Justamente Quando
Cheguei' has to be up there as one of the fnest Brazilian-psych-folk-MPB
records we know. Unfortunately, it's very hard to fnd in the wild; even on digging trips to Brazil, an original copy rarely shows up, and when it does, it comes with a hefty price tag.

This highly sought- after rarity was released on the Brazilian label Tapecar
Records in 1972 and is the one and only album by the sensational pairing of
Rubinho and Mauro Assumpção. Effortlessly blending folk, MPB, funky- psych, rock, and relaxed, swaggering samba, this record ought to be heralded as a true Brazilian classic. However, maybe due to its scarcity and the previous reissue predominantly being only available to the Brazilian market, it has not had a chance to fully shine and fnd the wider audience it deserves.

Through our reissuewe hope to put things right. Fans of records by Milton Nascimento and Lô Borges are sure to enjoy the same magic and allure in 'Perfeitamente, Justamente Quando Cheguei'.

In addition to being the album's songwriters, Mauro Assumpção took on the role of producer and Rubinho was co- producer as well as playing piano, organ, acoustic guitar and performing vocals. The record features the drummer Gegê who worked with Milton Nascimento, Edu Lobo, Nana Caymmi, Dom Um Romão and more. It also features guitarist Rick Ferreira, who played with Erasmo Carlos, Gal Costa and other greats. Rounding off the players on the album are Darcy Da Cruz and Formiga who have graced many a fne recording on horns. 'Perfeitamente, Justamente Quando Cheguei' is a truly stunning work that washes over you with beauty. Delve in and savour.
Brazilian-psych-folk-MPB at its finest - this highly sought-after rarity from 1972 is the one and only album by the sensational pairing of Rubinho and Mauro
Assumpção. A true Brazilian classic.

TRACK LISTING

1. A Montanha
2. Bloco Da Visao
3. Os Olhos
4. Sozinho Nao Estou
5. Dobra A Esquina Para Ver O Sol
6. Debandada Geral
7. Quero Companheira
8. Voce Falou
9. Quale A Sua
10. Pe Na Estrada
11. Ta Tudo Ai
12. No Mundo Da Lua
13. Quando Cheguei

Number 94 in the Brazil45 series is one for the Brazilian boogie lovers out there.The vocal and instrumental group Os Carbonos from Sao Paulo had a long career that straddled the 60s, 70s and 80s

'Pássaro Selvagem' is taken from the latter years of their career. Its a bass driven, boogie- funk groove (with a bassline not too dissimilar to Queen 'Another One Bites The Dust') that is Brazilian boogie at its finest. Taken from the B-side to a 7" campacto released in 1981 on Copacabana records, its proven to be a favourite of Luke Una and we foresee it becoming a staple in your DJ box for years to come too.The B-side comes from one of our all-time favourite artists, the mighty Sandra Sa. Sandra is a wonderful vocalist, her intense and recognisable style is one of THE voices of the Brazilian boogie golden era. Check out her classic album 'Vale Tudo' (MRBLP230) on Mr Bongo for further proof of her credentials here. 'Palco Azul' is also taken off a 7" single from 1981 and is a feel-good dancefloor groover with punchy brass stabs, warm keys and uplifting chord changes. It contains all the right elements that we have come to associate with that knockout late 70s / early 80s Brazilian sound.

TRACK LISTING

Os Carbonos - Passaro Selvagem
Sandra De Sa - Palco Azul

Number 95 in the Brazil45 series sees things take an excursion into samba.

'Mar Afunda', what a track! Instantly addictive with its relaxed guitar and Cuica samba- rock beauty and mighty- fine vocal arrangements by Os Novos Crioulos. Taken from their collectible self-titled album that was released on Pirata Records in 1976. Its a track that always works its magic on the dancefloor.

Supersom T.A. keeps things uplifting with its female/ male paired vocal arrangements, key stabs and Cuica. 'Brasileira Roxa' is rich in breezy sunshine vibes. A beautiful slice of feel-good samba that was originally released in 1972 on a compacto 7" via Fermata Records.

TRACK LISTING

Os Novos Crioulos – Mar Afunda
Supersom T.A. - Brasileira Roxa

Hailing from 1964 and originally released on the iconic Copacabana
Records, 'Um Balanco Pra Voce' by Os Rouxin is is one of the oldest releases featured in the Brazil45 series. This quirky, shufing bossa nova / exotic number was penned by the fabulous Arnaud Rodrigues and is taken from a fve-track 7" Compacto that features tracks that the group performed on television shows.The funky, soulful MPB 'O Viajante' by Wal Sant'ana is a long-time favourite here at Mr Bongo. Originally released on 7" by RGE Records in 1974, this male lead with female backing vocals groover is a sure- fre hit on the dancefoor and is equally enjoyable on headphones or at home. Uplifting, good vibes by the amazing Wal Sant'ana, whose vinyl output may have been small, but was certainly mighty.

TRACK LISTING

1. Os Rouixinois - Um Blanco Pra Voce
2. Wal Sant'Ana - O Viajante

We have to be honest, we don't know much about the mysterious Brazilian artist, Guto, we stumbled upon his 'Para Viver' album on Arlequi Records from 1979, by chance, during a digging trip to Sao Paulo. Once the needle dropped, we were hooked by 'Transito Livre', a charming MPB number with cool chorus changes and all-round soothing vibes. Light and breezy, and all the better for it. Tony Nunes' 'Por Favor' shifts things up a few gears. It's a racing Hammond organ and wah-wah guitar-led funky groover. At just over two minutes long, 'Por Favor' doesn't mess about. It's pure energy fring on all cylinders. It was originally released in 1973 on Odeon Records, but the track has more of a 60s psyche ModRnB feel and sensibility to it.

TRACK LISTING

1. Guto - Transito Livre
2. Tony Nunes - Por Favor

On this 7" Mr Bongo presents two lost jazz tracks by the trombonist and Horace Tapscott-collaborator, Lester Robertson

Lester has worked with some of the greats of jazz including Gerald Wilson, Anita O'Day, Lionel Hampton and Roy Porter Sound Machine on the classic 'Jessica' album. Lester was a member of Horace Tapscott's The Pan- Afrikan Peoples Arkestra and features on the iconic underground jazz albums 'The Call' and 'Live At I.U.C.C.'. The Arkestra was set up in 1961 in Los Angeles and over the years has included wonderful, inspirational musicians such as Adele Sebastian, Kamasi Washington, Dwight Trible, Phil Ranelin, Arthur Blythe, Jesse Sharps and Nate Morgan.

These two recordings have recently been discovered on an archived master tape that little information on it other than Lester's name and the track titles. Sadly, the other players on the tracks aren't credited on the tape, so a line-up can't be 100% confirmed. Still, the magic of what they laid down in the session pays testament to their artistry. First up is the lively popping track 'Akirfa' in which Lester gets space to let rip and exercise his talents. On the flip is the euphonious 'Untitled Ballad', a mellifluent lullaby for an end-of-the-day wind-down.

Lost for a while, but thankfully not forgotten, these beautiful recordings finally get their chance to shine.

TRACK LISTING

Akirfa
Untitled Ballad

With some of the best DJs and selectors there is a certain mysterious sound or underlying feeling which unites the music they play, regardless of genre, year or tempo. Luke Una is a master of telling a story through music and this compilation is a perfect example of his musical alchemy in action. Featuring tracks from Yusef Lateef, Airto Moreira, Crooked Man, Henri Texier and many more, it is a collection of new, old, rare and under-discovered music from around the world, all united by Luke under the banner of "E-Soul Cultura".

It's best described by Luke himself, who writes: "As the 5AM city sleeps and the strobe lights are slowly turned off, we gather on the wrong side of town in a transcendental journey alone together. We are the late night disenfranchised holding on in various after parties, flats, lofts, random kitchens and basements into the outer cosmos with É Soul Cultura. Music from exotic tear jerkers, Afro-spiritual jazz, cosmic Brazilian celestial grooves, machine street soul, dark horses, lost B-sides, £1 bargain-bin bombs, hidden gems, late night Italo dubbing, deep velvet N.Y.C garage, bass buggin sonic futurism, wrong speed 33BPM pitched up +8 new beat, majestic sunset strings, sweet vocals from heaven, no half steppin jazz dancing in outer-space and odd numbers. Yes… magical moments, together, holding on in witness protection suburban cul-de-sacs and Castle Court flats. Cosmic É high, 3000ft above the city getting evangelical to murky, wonky timeless beautiful music. This thing of ours dreaming of better days. Fail we may, sail we must, the sun will come up again." For anyone who has enjoyed his epic 5 hour shows on Worldwide FM, you know what to expect from the man who is Luke Una. Variety and quality all the way. 

TRACK LISTING

1. Robson Jorge & Lincoln Olivetti – Eva
2. Chene Noir - Le Train
3. Metropolis - Every Time I See Him
4. The Brand New Heavies Featuring N'Dea Davenport – Stay This Way (The Lunar Dub)
5. Typesun - The P.L. (Extended Edit)
6. King Errisson - Space Queen
7. Yusef Lateef - Robot Man
8. Daniel Humair, Francois Jeanneau, Henri Texier - Le Cyclope
9. Airto Moreira - O Galho Da Roseira (The Branches Of The Rose Tree)
10. Francisco – Wache
11. Nar'Chiveol - Apocalypse Now Ho
12. On - Southern Freeez
13. Soylent Green - After All

Some records just stop you in your tracks, they resonate with you and feel instantly familiar like an old friend, even on the frst listen SOYUZ's third album 'Force of the Wind' is one of those records.

It holds all the trademarks, beauty, and eccentricities of classic Brazilian recordings, from the 60s and 70s, that we have come to love. Think artists such as Milton Nascimento, Lô Borges, Burnier e Cartier, Arthur Verocai et al. But this record wasn't made in Brazil and is in fact a brand-new release.

SOYUZ (which translates as 'union') is a creative collective from Minsk, Belarus, led by composer, arranger, and singer, Alex Chumak, multi-instrumentalist, Mikita Arlou, and drummer, Anton Nemahai. SOYUZ's previous albums explored and reimagined the legacy of jazz-oriented, non-English-language pop music of the 20th century.

For their third album, there is a stronger focus, and it is infuenced by 70s Música popular Brasileira and building bridges from it to present-day Belarus. Alex notes that from the moment he frst encountered Brazilian music, he found in it a kind of concentrated emotion that felt as if it were familiar to him from his childhood. This non- verbal emotion and connection between the listener and musician echoes in the music, regardless of understanding of the language the album is recorded in.

TRACK LISTING

1. Song With No Words
2. Offscreen
3. I Knew It (feat Kate NV)
4. Glance
5. How Are You (Como E Que Vai Voce) (feat Sessa)
6. Beige Days
7. Morning Moon
8. Force Of The Wind
9. Weather Report

The respected Japanese jazz drummer Akira Ishikawa was not messing around when he recorded the 'Uganda (Dawn of Rock)' album with his band the Count Buffaloes

For this offering, originally released in 1972 on Toshiba Records, Akira Ishikawa takes us on a deep tripped- out journey. 'Uganda (Dawn of Rock)' is a fusion of progressive and psych rock with African percussion workouts, dergy- wah wah blues-funk, and jazzy sensibilities; with different genres morphing and uniting as they progress.A long way from his funk and afrobeat album 'Back To Rhythm', reissued on Mr Bongo in 2019, this record has a darker, deeper, abstract and experimental stoned tone with the listener being pulled into its vortex for the ride. This record doesn't pull any punches.

For this album, Akira is joined by Hideaki Chihara on bass, guitarist Kimio Mizutani, sounding at times like an early 70s Peter Green, percussionist Larry Sunaga and composer Takeru Muraoka.

The album has become highly sought- after amongst psych, prog and acid rock collectors and due to the rare nature of original copies they come at a hefty price tag.

TRACK LISTING

Wanyamana Mapambazuko
Na Tu Penda Sana
Vita
Pygmy

A new compilation series kicks off with an absolutely belting double LP that features a selection of hard-to-find records (some impossible to find) and some that have been hiding in plain sight all along.

They all share common qualities, being that they are beautiful, soul quenched songs that sing of love, peace and unity."With Love: Volume 1" has been compiled by Miche and presents a curated selection of rare Brazilian, gospel, modern soul and jazz-fusion fire. We have Brazilian rarities by Alcione and Quientaessencia, UFO gospel by Keith Chism & Light, the jazz-funk / AOR sounds of City Lites taken from a Radio Station album, and the anthemic feel-good emotional soul of Belita Woods to name but a few.

Tracking down artists and musicians from the past is an art form. Like a seagull swooping for treats, sometimes the prizes are easily found, and at other times, it's the result of very late nights trolling through Facebook profiles, message boards, hitting dead ends and following red herrings, and yet still the search goes on. This compilation is a true labour of love with all the artists tracked down and licensed by Miche. It has long been an ambition of the London based musical connoisseur to compile an album, and like anything that requires craft, care, and knowledge - it takes time. There are many twists and turns in the hunt for those records that make your jaw drop.

A sublime selection of glorious modern soul, Brazilian rare gems and groovefuelled gospel. Featuring hard-to-find records, some impossible to find, and some that have been hiding in plain sight all along.

TRACK LISTING

South Funk Blvd. - Skying High (Getting Off On Your Lovin')
Ad Libs - Don't Need No Fortune Teller
Atlantis - Hung Up About You
Smoke Inc. - Waitin' For Love
Mandisa - Summer Love
City Lites - Now You've Gone Away
Papaya - Favela
Alcione - Este Mundo Tem
Quintaessencia - Serrado
Superior Elevation - It Was September
Keith Chism & Light - My Life And Song
Belita Woods - Magic Corner
Spare Hare - Ain't No Doubt About It
Sammy Acuna - Never Found A Girl
Sweet Mixture - House Of Fun And Love

Sounding simultaneously from the past, the present, and the future, the debut album 'MLDE' by Marxist Love Disco Ensemble seeks to eradicate both the trite from disco and the sobriety from political music.

Half poetic, half tongue-in-cheek, this stunning compact eight-track album is infuenced by Eastern European and Mediterranean 70s disco records.

In the words of band member Paolo, ''it was written in response to hearing 'I love America' by Patrick Juvet. The song prompted the question: why does disco, a genre originally created by oppressed minorities, eventually become synonymous with American capitalist excess?" MLDE seeks to break this connection.

Merging disco, post-disco 80s pop, and boogie into the fold, 'MLDE' was recorded using only analogue instruments, giving it warmth and space. Recorded on cassette, ¼ and ½ inch tape, this gives moments of lo-fi abstraction between the beats of an aggressive, tight drum kit. Instruments used for this recording range from saxophone, trumpet, harpsichord, guitar, and rare analogue synthesisers. The bass sound is shaped by early 80s boogie records, whilst the influence of artists such as Hamlet Minassian can be heard in some of MLDE's more driving disco outings, such as 'Hues of Red'. In the tradition of Soviet vocal group records, which the band has studied, some songs are sung by a vocal quartet in homage to this tradition.

The format and message of pop and disco are commonly viewed just to entertain and move bodies around a dancefloor; however, lyrically, the subjects range from dialectical and historical materialism, class struggle, Marxist theory and praxis, as well as the concept of Marxist disco music.

Adding the icing to the cake, mastering don Joker aka Liam McLean dusted the album with his magic, giving the songs space where the room is needed, as well as the kick and punch demanded by the modern dancefloor.

Recorded using only analogue instruments and mastered by Joker

TRACK LISTING

1. Dust
2. Brumaire
3. Material
4. Manifesto
5. 1905
6. Hues Of Red
7. Hide And Seek
8. Engineers

This previously unreleased album by the Horace Tapscott Quintet was unearthed from master tapes in the Flying Dutchman archives. Recorded in 1969 it was intended to be a follow-up album to the classic 'The Giant Is Awakened' which was released that year.

The iconic pianist and composer Horace Tapscott was one of the most unique and important figures in LA's jazz world. This lost recording was produced by one of the pivotal figures in jazz, Bob Thiele, a leading behind-the- scenes star who worked with many of the greats in jazz, such as Quincy Jones, Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Della Reese, Shirley Scott, Gil Scott-Heron, the list goes on. His name can be seen gracing, arguably the best, Impulse! releases and those released on his own Flying Dutchman imprint set up in 1969.

Joining Horace for this three-track, deep, heavy, avant-garde session is the same stellar cast featured on 'The Giant Is Awakened'; Arthur Blythe on Alto Sax, Everett Brown Jr on Drums, with David Bryant and Walter Savage Jr. on Bass. Kicking things off we have 'World Peace', which starts with an almost baroque- esque melody, leading to an eruption in sound, it then ends in the same manner it began. The beautiful 'Your Child' is the jewel in the crown, skirting modal, deep jazz and introducing elements of free jazz. 'For Fats' with its bow bass and piano intro takes you on a journey, dropping into, at times dark, stormy melodies and developing a driving energy as the composition progresses.

TRACK LISTING

1. World Peace
2. Your Child
3. For Fats