A cult classic in the afro music scene has been given a fresh polish and two brand new remixes from Dave Lee and Doug Gomez.

Dave Lee brings the keys to focus with staccato Rhodes complimented by thick slappin’ disco bass and glistening afro percussion before a serious piano solo soars in and takes it home.

Doug Gomez brings his ‘Merecumbe Soul’ touch to the track, opting for a stomping afro house rhythm & shiny clav licks-a-plenty.

TRACK LISTING

A1. Dave Lee Afro Fusion Mix
A2. Accapella
B1. Doug Gomez Merecumbe Soul Remix
B2. Original

The follow up to his 2017 album, Produced With Love II is a collection of brand new songs from one of the UK’s most longstanding, respected and fiercely independent artists. In a flash-in-the-pan industry like music, Dave Lee’s career is notable for both its longevity and consistency. As a record producer and remixer, DJ and curator, he’s now clocked up well over 30 years and, if such things existed, would be nailed on for a carriage clock for long service to add to the numerous hits and landmarks he’s enjoyed over a storied career.

His latest album, Produced With Love II, continues the work he started with 2017’s superb collection. Incorporating aspects of house, soul and disco and crafted with the attention to detail you’d expect from someone of Lee’s heritage and calibre, Produced With Love II comprises 12 brand new songs and will arrive in June 2022.

The writing process has always remained the same and Dave has always preferred to work face-to-face with artists whenever possible – albeit with a few enforced remote sessions due to the pandemic. Released as the lead single from the album in April, Starlight sees Lee team up with Omar: a former principal percussionist of the Kent Youth Orchestra and later a graduate of the Guildhall School Of Music who was awarded an MBE in 2012 for services to music. Starlight is a gorgeous, mid-tempo dance record, with Omar’s silky vocals backed up with rich production: soaring live strings, groove-laden clav and synth over a chugging bassline creating a heady, inviting atmosphere.

It’s an almost viscerally life-affirming record: a theme that continues throughout the entire album. Take a track like ‘If You Ever Need Somebody feat. Tiffany T’zelle', or ‘Taste My Love' with vocals from the aforementioned Billy Valentine. These songs would stand toe-to-toe with any soul standard from the 70s or 80s: to have production this rich and bold in 2022 isn’t far short of miraculous. And that’s what you get throughout Produced With Love II – an attention to detail and level of creative collaboration rarely seen. It’s why a Dave Lee album is a rare thing. These things take time, but when they do come along, it’s something worth treasuring

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Modern supremo Dave Lee refuses to retire from his console; rolling out another jam packed and unmissable selection of disco, boogie, soul and house - all new productions and featuring a wealth of talent old and new. Don't need to tell you how collectable this series is do I?!

TRACK LISTING

CD 

Disc 1:
1. Raw Essence Feat Lifford “Do It Again”
2 .Mistura Feat Tiffany T’zelle “If You Ever Need Somebody”
3. Dave & Omar “Starlight”
4. Dave & Maurissa “Look At The Stars”
5. Dave Lee Feat Billy Valentine “Taste My Love”
6. Mistura Feat Jemini “Want Me Back”
7. The Sunburst Band “Magnificent Mango”
8. Foreal People Feat Xan Blacq “Raise A Blaze”
9. The Sunburst Band Feat Angela Johnson “Face The Love”
10. Dave Lee Feat Billy Valentine “Power Of The Mind” (Power Trip Mix)
11. Jayenne Feat. Gina Carey – “Love Walked In The Room”
12. The Sunburst Band “Let’s Do It In Style”

Disc 2:
1. Leroy Burgess – “One Plus One” (Dave Lee Extended Mix)
2. Kokomo – “Use Your Imagination” (Dave Lee Re Imagined Mix)
3. Harold Melvin And The Bluenotes “Don’t Leave Me This Way” (Dave Lee Philly World Mix)
4. Str4ta “After The Rain” (Dave Lee Alternative II Mix)
5. Destiny II “Play 2 Win” (Dave Lee Destination Boogie Mix)
6. Sunburst Band Feat Wayne Hernandez “Listen Love” (Dave Lee Jazz Funk Renaissance Mix)
7. Prospect Park “Shake It Up Tonight” (Dave Lee Disco Re Shake)
8. The Vison Feat Andreya Triana “Mountains” (Dave Lee Live And Direct Extended Mix)
9. Roland Wrightangle Feat Darcus “In Your Blood” (Dave Lee Funk In Your Blood Mix)
10. Ja’Shay “Shout Hallelujah” (Dave Lee Redemption Mix)

LP

Disc 1:
A1. Dave & Omar – Starlight
A2. Jayenne Feat. Gina Carey - Love Walked In The Room
B1. Foreal People Feat. Xan Blacq - Raise A Blaze.
B2. Mistura Feat. Jemini - Want Me Back

Disc 2:
C1 Dave Lee Feat. Billy Valentine - Taste My Love
C2 Mistura Feat. Tiffany T'Zelle - If You Ever Need Somebody
C3 The Sunburst Band Feat. Angela Johnson - Face The Love.
D1 Raw Essence Feat. Lifford - Do It Again
D2 Dave Lee Feat. Billy Valentine - Power Of The Mind (Power Trip Mix)
D3 The Sunburst Band - Let's Do It In Style

Bonus 12”:
E1 Harold Melvin & The Bluenotes - Don't Leave Me This Way (Dave Lee Philly World Mix)
F1 Kokomo - Use Your Imagination (Dave Lee Re-Imagined Mix)

Volume 20 of Attack the Dancefloor kicks off with what we think will be a future classic – ‘Atlantia’ by Level 42’s Mike Lindup. A stunning mid-tempo boogie cut with great spacey production, excellent lyrics and an extended mix by Dave Lee.

Next up is Lazywax’s synth heavy, 80s soul style rework of the forthcoming Raw Essence ‘Do it Again’, the original being featured on Produced With Love 2.

Flip it over for Dave’s much played take of Jungle’s crossover hit ‘Keep Moving’, which gives the song an authentic bassline driven disco mix. Last up Chicago’s Emmaculate delivers a live instrumentation filled afro disco version of Doug Willis feat Zeke Manyika ‘Dougswana’.

STAFF COMMENTS

Millie says: The 20th instalment of Attack The Dancefloor showcasing the ultimate feel good tracks, nothing less you'd expect from this series, featuring the infamous Jungle hit Keep Moving and my personal favourite 'Dougswana' an afrobeat jazzy number.

TRACK LISTING

A1. Mike Lindup - Atlantia - Dave Lee’s Extended Remix
A2. Raw Essence Feat Lifford - Do It Again - Lazywax Remix
B1. Jungle - Keep Moving - Dave Lee Jungle Boogie Mix
B2. Doug Willis - Dougswana - Emmaculate Afrodisia Mix

First out of the blocks is Prospect Park as they return with their boogietastic remake of Cheryl Lynn fave, updating the song and turning it into a peaktime Disoctatstic work out featuring live musicianship, string arrangements and soaring vocals.

Next up is the lush ‘On Time’ by London broken beat crew Wipe the Needle and featuring the super slick soulful vocals of Sacha Williamson. Packed with dreamy strings and glistening Fender Rhodes over a MAW style Jazz Funk house rhythm this will keep the dance floor moving to the early hours.

On the flip its back for some more peak time action courtesy of the Sunburst Band’s classic ‘Garden Of Love’ remixed by Dam Swindle. The dutch duo take a more soulful route adding live bass and Rhodes to the production.

Closing the procedures is some peak time, string heavy disco house from Mr Doug Willis in the shape of ‘Forever Dougless’.

TRACK LISTING

A1. Prospect Park - Shake It Up Tonight (Dave Lee's Disco Re-Shake)
A2. Wipe The Needle Feat. Sacha Williamson - On Time (WTN 4x4 Mix)
B1. The Sunburst Band - Garden Of Love (Dam Swindle Remix)
B2. Dave Lee & Horse Meat Disco Feat. Angela Johnson - Dancing Into

After the immense success of Volume Two last year, it was only right we get Colin back. Here we find Colin gathering the essence of the last 15 months, reflecting the positivity and feedback from his previous compilations for ZR and his Worldwide FM show.

Jazz Dance Fusion Volume 3 is a combination of tracks that had previously evaded a release on vinyl and a reflection of the reaction that the new music was getting in his DJ sets and Radio show. The whole purpose of these compilations is to introduce you to fantastic talent to allow you to then go and explore all their works and keep this movement moving! With exclusive releases, many only available on Vinyl for the first time from Idris Ackamoor, Martin Johnson B3, Jane Bunnett and Maqueque, JuJu, Bellita & Jazztumbatá, GeeW & JD73’s ElecTrio.

The UK has made a great musical contribution to this genre in 2020 - 2021 From London to Leeds from Wales to Scotland and beyond, quality emerging jazz talent which Colin hopes to showcase right here.

“I hope you enjoy the selections and feel the flavour of Jazz Dance & Fusion from Brazil, UK, Japan, Europe, Cuba and all around the globe in this Pandemic World” - COLIN CURTIS

TRACK LISTING

Record One
A1 Papo Vázquez - Plena Drumline
A2 Andrea Brachfeld - Latin Sunset
A3 Mark Paul Norton & Born74 Feat Regis Molina - Blue Bayou
B1 Papo Vásquez - Huracán
B2 Joe Collado - Ahi Na Ma
B3 Martin Johnson B3 - 500 Miles High
B4 The Drive – Africa Bossa (Live)

Record Two
C1 Siya Makuzeni Sextet - Hold On
C2 GeeW - Latin Deep
C3 Born 74, Arema Arega - En Las Calles De Rio
D1 Joel Penner Sextet - Tombo 7/4
D2 GeeW - Som Do Tambor (Sound Of The Drum)
D3 JD73’s ElecTrio - Crazy Cats 

After the immense success of Volume Two last year, it was only right we get Colin back. Here we find Colin gathering the essence of the last 15 months, reflecting the positivity and feedback from his previous compilations for ZR and his Worldwide FM show.

Jazz Dance Fusion Volume 3 is a combination of tracks that had previously evaded a release on vinyl and a reflection of the reaction that the new music was getting in his DJ sets and Radio show. The whole purpose of these compilations is to introduce you to fantastic talent to allow you to then go and explore all their works and keep this movement moving! With exclusive releases, many only available on Vinyl for the first time from Idris Ackamoor, Martin Johnson B3, Jane Bunnett and Maqueque, JuJu, Bellita & Jazztumbatá, GeeW & JD73’s ElecTrio.

The UK has made a great musical contribution to this genre in 2020 - 2021 From London to Leeds from Wales to Scotland and beyond, quality emerging jazz talent which Colin hopes to showcase right here.

“I hope you enjoy the selections and feel the flavour of Jazz Dance & Fusion from Brazil, UK, Japan, Europe, Cuba and all around the globe in this Pandemic World” - COLIN CURTIS

TRACK LISTING

CD One
1 Idris Ackamoor - Island Dance
2 Andrea Brachfeld - Descarga Del Mundo
3 Bellita & Jazztumbatá - Oyelo Sonar
4 Joshua Jaswon Octet - Extinction
5 Martin Johnson B3 - Yatra Ta
6 Jane Bunnett And Maqueque – Reencuentro
7 JuJu - Wanting Touch
8 Bellita & Jazztumbatá – Bellita’s Pilon
9 GeeW - La Fiesta
10 Jorge Degas & Marcelo Salazar - Ballali
11 GeeW – Racing To Somewhere
12 JuJu - Musa

CD Two
1 Papo Vázquez - Plena Drumline
2 Andrea Brachfeld - Latin Sunset
3 Mark Paul Norton & Born74 Feat Regis Molina - Blue Bayou
4 Papo Vásquez - Huracán
5 Joe Collado - Ahi Na Ma
6 Martin Johnson B3 - 500 Miles High
7 The Drive – Africa Bossa (Live)
8 GeeW - Latin Deep
9 Born 74, Arema Arega - En Las Calles De Rio
10 Joel Penner Sextet - Tombo 7/4
11 GeeW - Som Do Tambor (Sound Of The Drum)
12 JD73’s ElecTrio - Crazy Cats
13 Tingvall Trio - Cuban SMS 

After the immense success of Volume Two last year, it was only right we get Colin back. Here we find Colin gathering the essence of the last 15 months, reflecting the positivity and feedback from his previous compilations for ZR and his Worldwide FM show.

Jazz Dance Fusion Volume 3 is a combination of tracks that had previously evaded a release on vinyl and a reflection of the reaction that the new music was getting in his DJ sets and Radio show. The whole purpose of these compilations is to introduce you to fantastic talent to allow you to then go and explore all their works and keep this movement moving! With exclusive releases, many only available on Vinyl for the first time from Idris Ackamoor, Martin Johnson B3, Jane Bunnett and Maqueque, JuJu, Bellita & Jazztumbatá, GeeW & JD73’s ElecTrio.

The UK has made a great musical contribution to this genre in 2020 - 2021 From London to Leeds from Wales to Scotland and beyond, quality emerging jazz talent which Colin hopes to showcase right here.

“I hope you enjoy the selections and feel the flavour of Jazz Dance & Fusion from Brazil, UK, Japan, Europe, Cuba and all around the globe in this Pandemic World” - COLIN CURTIS

TRACK LISTING

Record One
A1 Idris Ackamoor - Island Dance
A2 Andrea Brachfeld - Descarga Del Mundo
A3 Bellita & Jazztumbatá - Oyelo Sonar
B1 Joshua Jaswon Octet - Extinction
B2 Martin Johnson B3 - Yatra Ta
B3 Jane Bunnett And Maqueque – Reencuentro

Record Two
C1 JuJu - Wanting Touch
C2 Bellita & Jazztumbatá – Bellita’s Pilon
C3 GeeW - La Fiesta
D1 Jorge Degas & Marcelo Salazar - Ballali
D2 GeeW – Racing To Somewhere
D3 JuJu - Musa
D4 Tingvall Trio - Cuban SMS 

"Remixed With Love Volume 3" is the third edition of what has become the industry-leading disco remix series. One of the best of the 'new school' of edit merchants - not many know this era of music better than Dave Lee who has from the disco era.

'I can clearly remember in the 80s having fantasies about being a remixer and dreaming of tweaking my favourite songs and re-releasing them. I really never thought it would happen. The days when I receive the parts for some of these classic recordings are literally a dream come true.'

"Remixed With Love Volume 3" has been a real labour of love, and a release several years in the making. With original parts for some of these classics hard to find, and with major labels rightly protective of songs created by legendary artists, it is a testament to both the perseverance of Lee and the esteem in which he is held as a remixer that the project was ever completed. Luckily for us though, here we are: "Remixed With Love Volume 3" is done, dusted and ready to deliver a healthy dose of joy to us all.

As with previous volumes, Lee has put his own inimitable spin on more than a dozen seminal records, with Glenn Jones, Patrice Rushen, Gwen McCrae, Mass Production and many more vying for attention across a stunning three part gatefold double vinyl. As you’d expect from an artist of Lee’s calibre, he’s taken the task extremely seriously. 'Some songs I’ve wanted to get access to the multi for ages turn out to be far less straight forward than I imagined. You know it’s a great track, but unlocking the key to doing a worthwhile new version doesn’t always come easy. To make more of a feature of one element sometimes means there has to be less of something else. There are many decisions to be made, lived with, revised, maybe reversed until finally your gut tells you it’s about right.'

There are very few producers with either the confidence or ability to take on records of this heritage, but Dave Lee has once again proved that when it comes to sensitive re-workings of disco staples, he’s in a league of his own.

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Much needed repress of this seminal series which has become somewhat of a modern holy grail for disco and boogie aficionados. Don't miss out a second time - these are highly coveted and rightly so - expert edits for the dancefloor. Essential!

TRACK LISTING

Record One
A1 Glenn Jones - I Am Somebody (Joey Negro Finessed Remix)
A2 Patrice Rushen - Never Gonna Give You Up (JN Re-Grooved Mix)
B1 Samuel Jonathan Johnson - You (Joey Negro Zoomed In Mix)
B2 Deniece Williams - Free (Joey Negro Re-Grooved Mix)

Record Two
C1 Venus Dodson - Shining (Joey Negro Tribute To Leroy Burgess Mix)
C2 Gwen McCrae - Doin’ It (Joey Negro Soulful Reprise)
D1 Mass Production - Shante (Joey Negro Cosmic Funk Mix)

"Remixed With Love Volume 3" is the third edition of what has become the industry-leading disco remix series. One of the best of the 'new school' of edit merchants - not many know this era of music better than Dave Lee who has from the disco era.

'I can clearly remember in the 80s having fantasies about being a remixer and dreaming of tweaking my favourite songs and re-releasing them. I really never thought it would happen. The days when I receive the parts for some of these classic recordings are literally a dream come true.'

"Remixed With Love Volume 3" has been a real labour of love, and a release several years in the making. With original parts for some of these classics hard to find, and with major labels rightly protective of songs created by legendary artists, it is a testament to both the perseverance of Lee and the esteem in which he is held as a remixer that the project was ever completed. Luckily for us though, here we are: "Remixed With Love Volume 3" is done, dusted and ready to deliver a healthy dose of joy to us all.

As with previous volumes, Lee has put his own inimitable spin on more than a dozen seminal records, with Earth, Wind & Fire, Booker T, Mtume, Eddie Kendricks and many more vying for attention across a stunning three part gatefold double vinyl. As you’d expect from an artist of Lee’s calibre, he’s taken the task extremely seriously. 'Some songs I’ve wanted to get access to the multi for ages turn out to be far less straight forward than I imagined. You know it’s a great track, but unlocking the key to doing a worthwhile new version doesn’t always come easy. To make more of a feature of one element sometimes means there has to be less of something else. There are many decisions to be made, lived with, revised, maybe reversed until finally your gut tells you it’s about right.'

There are very few producers with either the confidence or ability to take on records of this heritage, but Dave Lee has once again proved that when it comes to sensitive re-workings of disco staples, he’s in a league of his own.

STAFF COMMENTS

Matt says: Much needed repress of this seminal series which has become somewhat of a modern holy grail for disco and boogie aficionados. Don't miss out a second time - these are highly coveted and rightly so - expert edits for the dancefloor. Essential!

TRACK LISTING

Record One
A1 Michael Wycoff - Looking Up To You (Joey Negro Super Sweet Mix)
A2 Earth, Wind & Fire - Can't Let Go (Joey Negro Elevated Mix)
B1 Booker T. - Don't Stop Your Love (Joey Negro Paradise Mix)
B2 L.T.D. - Love To The World (Joey Negro Mizell Magic Mix)

Record Two
C1 Mtume - So You Wanna Be A Star (Joey Negro Disco Re-Blend)
C2 Brenda Russell - Way Back When (Joey Negro Extended Disco Mix)
D1 Eddie Kendricks - Going Up In Smoke (Joey Negro Big Smoke Mix) 

ZR returns with a long overdue Gospel album compiled by David Hill.

The album leads with a track from The Clark Sisters who are without doubt one of the most successful and prolific family gospel groups of the last forty years. Originally released on S.O.G. Records (Sounds of Gospel), ‘Overdose of the Holy Ghost’ was recorded in 1981 and would go on to become the group’s biggest crossover hit after being licensed to Elektra Records and released internationally in 1983.

The ‘Queen of Gospel Music’, Shirley Caesar turns in a smoldering, socially conscious, Philadelphia International inspired groover with ‘Message To The People’. Gospel artists are well known for taking popular secular songs – or riffs from them – and adapting the lyrics to take the song in a spiritual direction. Kristle uses The Emotions’ ‘Best of My Love’ as its foundation, and builds from a slow intro, gradually turning up the heat until it’s the dancefloor burner that is ‘I’ll Go’.

With further disco and funk induced soul provided by many more Gospel luminaries, plus exclusive edits from David Hill and Z Records’ Dave Lee, ‘Overdose of the Holy Ghost’ is a shining example of church music that has been influenced by secular soul that was built for the dance floor.

“Gospel music has often followed the prominent trends in secular music, probably in the hope of widening its audience by giving the subject matter a sprinkling of cool. In the 60s it happened with R&B and then funkflavoured gospel, the 70s brought sweet-soul crossovers, and by 1975 the sounds of early disco had started to permeate the genre. This compilation brings together overlooked gospel gems that have their production rooted in disco and boogie, the sound of the early 80s that followed in disco’s wake. It’s only recently that this music has begun to be appreciated by fans outside of its original target market, and I’m glad to help it finally reach a wider audience.” - David Hill

TRACK LISTING

A1 The Clark Sisters - Everything's Gonna Be Alright (Dave Lee Edit)
A2 Sharon Johnson - A Better Day
A3 Dan Greer - Love Is The Message (Dave Lee Edit)
B1 Ricky Womack & Christian Essence - I Need You (Dave Lee Edit)
B2 Shirley Caesar - Heavenly Father
C1 Elbernita 'Twinkie' Clark - Awake O Zion
C2 The Clark Sisters - Overdose Of The Holy Ghost
C3 Kristle - I'll Go
D1 The Young Delegation - He Lives
D2 Tommy T & Company - Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere

The forthcoming full-length album ‘Operation Disco' that Greg ‘Dr’ Packer has put together for Z Records. On an unstoppable run recently, the quality shows no sign of slowing down as Packer showcases his talent for splicing and dicing tracks. On the bonus second CD he supplies a continuous mix live from his operating theatre, packed to the absolute brim with Packer & other Z Records back catalogue favourites of his.

“It has been a huge honour working on the operation disco album compilation for Z Records which has been on my radar for three decades now and is possibly my favourite House & Disco label. Dave Lee is a big inspiration to me as his 1991 Single 'Do What You Feel' was one of the first records to appear in my DJ sets in my earliest days as a working DJ 30 years ago.

In 2013 I started to produce music under the 'Dr Packer' name and when I began doing the occasional remix for Z Records, I never imagined it would end up resulting in an album project. To be able to work on cover versions of some of my all-time favourite soul & disco songs such as 'You Can't Run From My Love' and some of my all-time favourite vocalists such as Leroy Burgess it is really a dream come true.

Dave Lee is an easy guy to work with and is always open to my suggestions which resulted in me remixing one of my alltime favourite tracks of his ‘Love Fantasy' which is also now three decades old. Not to mention possibly my favourite single from his 'Destination Boogie' compilation, the 80's underground classic 'Colors - Am I Gonna Be The One’ plus two brand new mixes of The Sunburst Band. Making this a very exciting album project with plenty of exclusives and remasters of my older releases, not to mention my favourite gems from the amazing Z Records back catalogue.” – Greg Packer

TRACK LISTING

CD One (Unmixed)
1. Colors - Am I Gonna Be The One (Dr Packer Remix)
2. Jayenne - Love Fantasy (Dr Packer Remix)
3. Mistura - Runnin' (Dr Packer Remix)
4. The Sunburst Band & Leroy Burgess - Survivin' (Dr Packer Remix)
5. The Love Symphony Orchestra - Let Me Be Your Fantasy (Dr Packer Remix)
6. Samson & Delilah - I Can Feel Your Love Slippin' Away (Dr Packer Remix)
7. Raw Essence – Do You Love What You Feel (Dr Packer Edit)
8. Lisa Hill – I Am On The Real Side (Dr Packer Re-Tweak)
9. Doug Willis - Skate Dancer (Dr Packer Remix)
10. The Sunburst Band - We Will Turn You On (Dr Packer Edit)

CD Two (Dr Packer Live From The Operating Theatre Mix [Continuous Mix])
Dr Packer Live From The Operating Theatre Mix [Continuous Mix]
The Sunburst Band Feat. Leroy Burgess - Survivin’ [Dr Packer Remix]
Mistura - Runnin’ [Dr Packer Remix]
Samson & & Delilah - I Can Feel Your Love Slippin Away [Dr Packer Remix]
The Sunburst Band - Thin Air [JN 2017 Re-Tweak]
Magnum Force - Cool Out [Dr Packer 2021 Re-Tweak]
Opolopo - Feels Good 2 Me
Joey Remix - Overnight Sensation
Colors - Am I Gonna Be The One [Dr Packer Remix]
Patrice Rushen - Never Gonna Give You Up [JN Re-Grooved Mix]
Crackazat - Fly Away
The Sunburst Band - We Will Turn You On [Dr Packer Re-Edit]
Foreal People - Shake [Dr Packer Remix]
Horse Meat Disco, Joey Remix Ft. Angela Johnson - Dancing Into Stars
Doug Willis - Risky Bizznizz
JKriv Ft. Adeline - Vertigo [JN Spirit Of ‘78 Mix]
Antonello Ferrari Ft. Jennifer Wallace - Make Room For Me [JN Extended Disco Mix]
Jayenne - Love Fantasy [Dr Packer Remix

‘Welcome to the second instalment of my ‘Jazz Dance Fusion’ compilation series for Joey Negro’s Z Records. I continue to look back into the story & history of the UK jazz dance and jazz music scene; a movement that started for me back in the 70's. The sounds of funk & soul mixed with jazz, influences from Brazil, Africa, Europe and all over the globe, textures of instrumental sounds & voices, fuse to create the much-loved ‘jazz fusion’ sound that we love.

Here we are in 2020 when interest in all forms of Jazz is growing fast as DJ pioneers such as Gilles Peterson, Patrick Forge, Perry Louis, Snowboy, Nick Hosier, Alan Mckinnon, Jim Bernardi, Kev Beadle, Harv Nagi, Shuya Okino and David Patterson continue to push all aspects of Jazz to converted and new audiences.

So, to this compilation where I am showcasing unreleased material and offering tracks up for the first time ever on vinyl and CD. The track listing covers my addiction to dance-floor jazz, coupled with my passion for vocal and percussive jazz, with my usual trademark latin touches.

Hope you enjoy the selection – turn it up loud and feel the jazz passion flow!’

TRACK LISTING

CD:
1. Paoli Mejias – Revelation
2. Leslie Lewis & Gerard Hagen Trio – Keeper Of The Flame
3. Curtis Lundy - Never Gonna Let You Go
4. 8VB – Gengis
5. Marita Albán Juárez Quartet – Upa Neguinho
6. JD Walter - Golden Lady
7. Steven Kroon - Tombo 7/4
8. Hajime Yoshizawa Feat. Navasha Daya – Celebration
9. Raffaela Renzulli Ensemble – Brasilia
10. Carmen Lundy - So This Is Love
11. Tino Gonzales – Latin Gypsy
12. Grady Tate - Little Black Samba
13. Jam Session Goes Latino - Manteca

LP:
A1. Tino Gonzales – Latin Gypsy
A2. Paoli Mejias - Revelation
A3. 8VB - Gengis
B1. Marita Albán Juárez Quartet – Upa Neguinho
B2. Steven Kroon - Tombo 7/4
B3. Hajime Yoshizawa Feat. Navasha Daya - Celebration
B4. Curtis Lundy - Never Gonna Let You Go
C1. Carmen Lundy - So This Is Love
C2. Raffaela Renzulli Ensemble - Brasilia
C3. Grady Tate - Little Black Samba
D2. JD Walter - Golden Lady
D3. Jam Session Goes Latino - Manteca
D4.: Leslie Lewis & Gerard Hagen Trio – Keeper Of The Flame

Z Records continues its commitment to unearthing the obscure and long forgotten tracks from the last 40 years through the ever-popular Under The Influence series. Following on from Red Greg, Paul Phillips, James Glass, Nick The Record, Sean P, Faze Action and Winston. It’s now the turn of one of the Italy’s most impressive collectors; Woody Bianchi.

The story behind U.T.I is this, being a seasoned record collector Z label boss Dave Lee (Joey Negro) has made the acquaintance of many of the worlds other vinyl junkies. People that may be unknown to the general public but are hardcore enthusiasts who have built some of the best collections of soul, funk and disco on the planet. The idea of UTI isn't about big name djs but is to give a musical platform to those who have the knowledge to put together a track listing of killer tunes.

Woody Bianchi is a prolific DJ, producer, remixer and record collector. His International collaborations with Bob Sinclar,Todd Terry, Arthur Baker, Full Intention, Eric Kupper, Jocelyn Brown, Marshall Jefferson and many others have created an remarkable profile for him. He has released over 300 productions worldwide and has toured side by side with many of the scenes greatest names. Here we get the pleasure of delving into his vast collection and plucking some of the rarest records out there, with many of the tracks costing hundreds if you were able to find the originals.

As always with ZR compilations a lot of time and effort has been spent on creating these masters from the original vinyl, cleaning them up, removing all the clicks and pops resulting in the cleanest sounding copy possible.

STAFF COMMENTS

Patrick says: For the eighth instalment of their Under The Influence series, Z Records hand the controls to Italian record obsessive Woody Bianchi, who showcases an impressive set of disco rarities from his personal collection.

TRACK LISTING

Side 1
1. Original Just Us - "You're My Latest Inspiration" (6:20)
2. Coco York & Serge Ermoll Ensemble - "Come On Everybody" (8:32)
3. Ciecle - "Disco Break" (Woody Bianchi Edit) (5:19)

Side 2
1. GC Cameron - "If I Love You" (3:24)
2. Rev Jerry Burns & The Youth Ensemble - "Rapture" (6:43)
3. Sunny Gayle - "I Wanna Know" (6:01)
4. The Magic City Band - "Hot Flashes" (3:37)

Side 3
1. Arlana - "Springtime" (6:00)
2. Jay Player - "Love Is The Answer" (5:47)
3. Razz Ma Tazz - "Sugar Sugar Sugar" (7:26)

Side 4
1. Rideout - "Someone Special" (4:24)
2. Formula One - "Can You Feel It" (6:11)
3. Ipanema Brothers - "Rio De Janeiro" (Woody Bianchi Edit) (6:06)
4. The Variations - "I Know Why You're Here" (3:26)

Founded way back in 91, Z Records have since amassed a lauded and plentiful collection of singles, albums and compilations. Run by Dave Lee aka Joey Negro, the label has enjoyed success through his unique ability to foster the principles of underground dance music whilst also remaining mindful of commercial appeal.

Through various compilations, Mr Lee has consistently delved deep into the heart of a specific genre or era and selecting a lesser-known series of tracks that give a real insight into the spirit and energy that made that point in time special. Whether it's been gogo, Brit-funk, boogie, Italo house or straight up disco, he has mined deep into his extensive bank of influences and also enlisted the help of some of his most clued-up comrades in offering some unforgettable collections of classics. Next up - he pulls together a collection of his favourite moments across a definitive decade for house and garage: the 90’s. Inclusive of material from Kerri Chandler, Robert Owens and MAW as well as remixes from Mood II Swing and Ron Trent - the compilation is packed with sultry vocal lines and the sort of slick, irresistible grooves that defined the era. Sticking with the ethos of his series, Joey Negro has dug out an olio of music that may have until now ‘slipped under the garage doors’ meaning a lot of the material on this compilation is being digitised for the very first time. In searching deeper and wider than the average compilation, the package provides a thorough insight into why this was such a fertile period for production and gives a nod to the sort of drum patterns, sampling techniques and vocal lines that have inspired the likes of Bicep, Brawther and Huxley amongst many more.

TRACK LISTING

CD One:
1. Fonda Rae - Living In Ecstasy (Mood II Swing Groove Mix Edit)
2. Voices - Voices In My Mind (CJ Mackintosh Remix)
3. Danube Dance - Unique (New York Underground Mix)
4. Donnie Mark - Stand Up For The Soul (Vocal Mix)
5. Janet Rushmore - Joy (Kaoz Gone Insane)
6. Robert Owens - Gotta Work (Final Take)
7. Station Q - That Special Melody (Club Mix)
8. A Bitch Named Johanna - Freak It (Instrumental)
9. Thelma Houston - All Of That (Joey Negro Club Mix)
10. Bougie Soliterre - Got The Bug
11. USG - Ncameu (Ron Trent Main Mix).

CD Two:
1. Gisele Jackson - Love Commandments (Original Vocal Edit)
2. Mateo & Matos - New York Style
3. Leee John - Mighty Power Of Love (Mood II Swing Vox Mix)
4. Club 69 - Let Me Be Your Underwear (Underground Mix)
5. Kerri Chandler - Ladbroke Grove
6. Michael Watford - Love Change Over (Fire Island Club Vocal Mix)
7. Ralphi Rosario - An Instrumental Need (Club Need)
8. Astro Trax - The Energy (Feel The Vibe)
9. BOP Feat. BJ Crosby - Thinkin’ About You (The TM Perspective)
10. Mike Delgado - The Murder Track.

Z Records tap Nick The Record for their fourth volume of the 'Under The Influence' series. Packed to the brim with disco, boogie, electro-funk and tropical gems, it's another essential offering from Z.

"My whole life has revolved around records. I was buying hip hop and house in the 80s as it was released and I got heavily into tracing the steps back through breaks and sample sources that were used in hip hop records. I also joined the dots between disco and modern club and house music and spread my music explorations from rare groove to rare disco. There were very few people interested in this vein of music history at the time and even fewer as obsessed as me so when the reemergence of disco exploded I was well ahead of the curve, not only in collecting but historical knowledge. The best thing about record collecting is it never ends and after 35 years of buying, after 25 years of selling and playing records there is still old stuff to discover and new releases to endeavour to keep up with. So as something of an expert in all things disco I get quite a few offers to release compilations but as a record obsessive my natural hoarding mentality makes me cautious to give up the goods. I feel this 'Under The Influence' series offers the chance to put together a more personal comp, which reflects the many different flavours of my taste and my collection and gives you a feel of my DJ style at the same time." - Nick The Record

TRACK LISTING

CD1
01. Boogsie - Can't You See Me
02. The Family Tree - 150th Psalm
03. Proton Plus - Pay Up (Remixed Rhythm Track)
04. Jean Adebambo - Say That You Love Me (DJ Nick The Record Re-edit)
05. Bill Campbell - Boogie All Night
06. Katunga - Palo Bonito (DJ Nick The Record Re-edit)
07. Wild Fire - Try Making Love
08. MC And His Great Googa-Moogas - Keep Your Shoes On! (Stuck In The Groove) (DJ Nick The Record Concise Edit)
09. MC Roscoe - Feel The Beat (Instrumental) (DJ Nick The Record Minor Tweek Edit)
10. Leston Paul - What A Surprise

CD 2
01. Sugar & Spice - The Beast (Instrumental)
02. Santth - Do You Want Me Baby, Like I Want You Re-united Re-Edit)
03. KL Hamilton - I'm Trying
04. Skye - Ain't No Need (DJ Nick The Record Part 1 & 2)
05. Betty & Beverly Prudhomme - Tut Tut Twins (DJ Nick The Record Re-edit)
06. Shelbra Deane - You Move Me
07. Ronnie Jones - Video Games
08. Charlie Mike Sierra - On The Moon
09. Victor Vick – Rescue
10. State Of Grace - Touching The Times (Instrumental)
11. Blackway & Helene - Music For Us (Instrumental)