Courtesy of Jon Freer (mosoul.co.uk) here are eight reviews of soon to be released albums (sorry no cover shots or tracklistings this time):

Marc Mac Presents Visioneers – Dirty Old Hip Hop (BBE)

Three and a half years after the first infuriatingly limited Visioneers 7″ surfaced on Omniverse, the full album finally appears on BBE. Thankfully, the wonderful tracks on those rare 7’s have been included on this musically moving long player. Emotion stirring guitars, anxious strings and lovely flutes appear on the sublime cover of “Runnin’”. A bright and breezy live bass, vibraphone twinkles and neat percussion do the encouraging on “The World Is Yours”. A fine non 7″ cut is “It’s Simple”, where romantic keys swoon over dreamful guitars and steady percussion. Steeped in a love of stirring jazz and paying respect to Hip Hop studio wizards, you could be forgiven for thinking Visioneers were a live entity. In reality, Visioneers is merely Marc and his mates in the studio, but if they chose to create their own live entity from this outfit, I think they’d give rather impressive performances.

V/A – Soul Heaven Presents MAW (Soul Heaven)

This straightforward House compilation shows the tracks that are currently finding favour with this pair of Nu Yorican masters. Kenny’s disc ranges from huge lunged vocal cuts to tough instrumental House, whilst Louie has chosen mainly engaging vocal outings. Hot tracks from Dope’s set include Ruffneck’s wonderfully high-spirited “Baby You” and a revitalisingly keyed touch up of Trina Broussard’s ecstatic “Joy”. Louie serves up delights such as K-Dope’s attractive remix of “Holiday” from Roy Ayers and the tribal drumming frenzy of “Mafungo” from The Bayara Citizens. The final disc of this three CD set lets MAW pick out a few records that have influenced them, thus giving listeners a glimpse of Kenny and Louie’s past, as well as their present.

V/A – Shapes Compilation (Tru Thoughts)

Nu-Funk and Broke Jazz titans Tru Thoughts have joined up with Hip Hoppity sister imprint Zebra Traffic to release this ace comp, which features hot new material from both camps. Various musical persuasions are catered for on this swingin’ and hoppin’ CD, which has to be one of the best compilations Tru Thoughts have ever released. Quantic’s “An Announcement To Answer” gives letting off steam brass a starring role, as chunky beats and plugging away keys join in the fun. Diesler’s awesome refix of Nirobi & Barakas’ “Bungee Jump Against Racism” pits butt-moving brass against angular vocals and drums that weigh just the right amount. Diesler also gives us the impressively Housed “A Little Something”, where Laura Vane’s fear allaying vocals delight over impatient brass and keys that don’t put a foot wrong. There are only 1000 of these little beauties being pressed, so start searching now!

V/A – The Golden Singles (Sunburn)

San Fran’s Sunburn imprint release records with character. Whether it’s trippy psychedelic House, indieful guitar driven breakers or electrocuted sparklers, they’ve all got that distinctive tan. Lovesky’s “Come Back To Me” as revisited by Hakan Lidbo, sees honest guitars and sparkled synths meet under pleading vocals. Boozy & Swan’s “Champagne Beat Boogie” is a gloriously drunken night on the tiles, where jiving beats, bleepy keys and inebriated vocals provides the soundtrack. Understanding plucked notelets, lovely synths and smacked beats meet on Drunken Monkey’s “Gratification”. Embrace
the warmth…

Gym Class Heroes - The Papercut Chronicles (Fueled By Ramen)

Gym Class Heroes are sold as an indie-hip hop group, and this type of categorisation makes my blood run cold. However, I remembered that you should never judge a book by its cover or reject a record without first abandoning your preconceptions and giving it a proper listen. Thankfully, this earnestly vocalised album, which mixes walking pace spoken vocals with singing and faster paced verbals is really rather endearing. The youthful GCH can really play guitars too, placing appealing melodies under angst-ridden vocal lines. “Papercuts” charts the pain caused by torturous emotional attachments, with driven drums and engaging guitars backing wounded vocals. The trials and tribulations of looking for the right girl, yet not being able to find her, is the subject of the bloated bass driven “Make Out Club”. Falling down guitars and strict beats provide the backing on “Faces In The Halls”, which shows what can happen when bullying goes too far. An unexpected musical treat!

Eighteen 18 – Body Armour (Northbridge)

This raggedy album of Hip Hop from Eighteen 18 has multiple personalities, born from the mind of Doncaster based rapper Lexis and the beats of producer Adee. This LP is excruciating nasty, side splittingly funny and harrowingly introspective, all in the space of an hour. Alert keys hook up with vocals that are disturbing yet amusing, on “Ashtray Blues”. “Body Armour” desperately begs for a loved one to return, as dejected beats, earnest strings and a smeared flute back Lexis’ vocals. Brokenhearted vocals weave in and out of time on the slowly beaten “Ruth’s Song”. Bleak yet thought provoking.

DJ Olive – Heaps As, Live In Tasmania (The Agriculture)

Organic dub hop is the musical mainstay of this live CD from DJ Olive. There are supposedly sixteen separate tracks on this album, but they have all been enveloped by an intoxicating green haze and are all presented in a continuous mix. You can just about make out the swingin’ keyed groovement on the title track, “Heaps As”. A showy sax and giggle inducing whistling pop up on the section named “They Make Us All Want To Hate Each Other Don’t Do It”. Reggaetronic keys and teetering brass hook up a little later on “Snail Trails In My Arms”. A mind-expanding journey, best served late at night in a smoky room…

Machomovers – Bare, Deep & Long (Sonntag Music)

Unfortunately, the majority of tracks on this double album are the kind of vacuous plodding four/four tracks that give House music, specifically ‘Deep House’, a bad name. However, it’s not all doom and gloom, as the first CD, undoubtedly the pick of the two, contains a few tracks with an excitable sparkle. The highlight is an amusing remake of Sade’s “Smooth Operator”, where giggling vibraphone keys run amok. “Laidback Whistler” is also worth a mention, pitting quirky mouth music against a groovin’ bass and ‘correct’ beats. Coffee table House anyone?

When it comes to Canada and black music there isn’t an endless list of artists that may come to your mind. Maybe it’s because there isn’t really market for soul, jazz or house there or maybe because musicians rather move to the USA like Ian Martin for example. Well, whatever the reason is, here’s a new artists from Canada that you should look out for. Nicole Pratt aka Nick-e was born and raised just east of Toronto and she’s been attracted to music at an early age and she soon started developing her talent as a vocalist. And with Mosaic she finally showcases her talent as singer, writer and producer on record. With six songs and roughly 30 minutes of music this is actually more an extented EP. But to judge from the quality of Mosaic, Nick-e is surely an artist you will remember.
For me Nick-e sound best in the warm organic music setting of It Feels Good, I Say and If You Were Here.
It Feels Good, an excellent slow soul song, shows that Nick-e has eagerly studied the book of 70s soul written by the likes of Roberta Flack, Stevie or Donny Hathaway. I Say with its subtle jazzy overtones is another winner that recalls soul music’s halcyon days. With the beautiful ballad If You Were Here Nick-e finally digs more into jazz territory.
Muse has a beautiful melody and features a captivating cello, but compared to the afore mentioned songs it could be improved by replacing the drum machine with a real drummer.
The introspective slow cut Turn Me Around will certainly please fans of electro downtempo songs. The message of the modern and aggressive Numb is supported by its electric guitars to good effect. Although, alas, Numb is the one song I can’t get into (but you all know my troubles with the modern sounds of today then). Nevertheless, Nick-e is to applaud for presenting different musical styles on her debut and exploring different directions. All in all Mosaic is an impressive and varied showcase from a talented artist.

Tracklisting of Mosaic: 1. Muse/ 2. It Feels Good/ 3. Numb/ 4. I Say/ 5. If You Were Here/ 6. Turn Me Around | released 2005 Smooth Groove Records

For more infos visit cdbaby.com and nickeonline.com.

[If you want to discuss Nick-e’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

The San Diego based Caballero-Verde Quintet were formed by Daniel Green (verde is of course Spanish for green) and Bill Caballero in February 2004. They both met already in June 2002, but like all good things, it took some time until they found the right musicians to accompany them on piano and trumpet. And what talented players they’ve what with Jeff “Sly” Simon (bass), Dylan Savage (drums) and Steve Haney (percussion).
With producing the album Past Due and writing six of the nine songs it looks like Daniel Green is the leader of the Quintet and he’s by the way busy with other projects like the 13-piece salsa band Trece de La Suerte.
“Of all the groups I play with, the Caballero-Verde Quintet has always been my favorite,” says Danny. “It’s a real treat for me to have such a great group of musicians play my compositions and arrangements, and I really feel that each one of them contributes a great deal to the material.”
And Danny really comes up with some splendid compostitions on the group’s debut album Past Due.
Take the energetic What Do You Call It for example, a percussion driven song that sums up what’s so great about Latin Jazz. Descarga #1 is another good example of a fast uplifting song that surely will see you moving your hips.
With Juan Melendez’s Karmenalia the Quintet gets more into improvisation and free jazz territory, the result is an instrumental tour de force and another fast paced winner. If you liked the Subaro double album by Speak In Tones last year than I’m sure you’ll like Karmenalia as well.
There’s also time for the quieter moments. The aptly titled Cool Down is a good example that Latin Jazz is not only about hard-hitting danceable grooves but also about ballads with beautiful melodies. The album’s title track Past Due slows down the tempo even more giving Danny and Bill a perfect vehicle to show their musical talent as pianist and trumpet player.
With nine exquisite songs on offer Past Due is a great instrumental album played by a tight band that every fan of Latin Jazz should own.

[edit: I’ve just come to know that Bill Caballero is no longer with the group and it’s simply named the Danny Green Quintet now.]

Tracklisting of Past Due: 1. What Do You Call It/ 2. Cool Down/ 3. Descarga #1/ 4. Drume Negrita/ 5. Obsesion/ 6. Karmenalia/ 7. Trouble On The Beach/ 8. The Nerve/ 9. Past Due | released 2006 by Daniel Green

For more infos visit dannygreen.net and cdbaby.com.

[If you want to discuss Caballero-Verde Quintet’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

You may not know it, not only does everybody has a little soul like Carmel proclaimed in the late 80s but you also have a Latin soul which needs to be nurtured. And what could be a more luxurious meal for your Latin soul than Grupo X’s new album?
I first heard of Grupo-X via the Snowboy compiled sampler The True Jazz Dance Session back in 2000, which featured Grupo-X’s Brand New Love with Lisa Millett on vocals. And I was so in love with this song that I didn’t hesitate to get a copy of Grupo X’s debut album X-Posure. While at first I was a little bit disappointed that Lisa only sung on one song I soon discovered the beauty of the band’s own blend of Latin rhythms, jazz and soul. Finally, after a six years hiatus founder Jonny Enright is back with a new album and the good news is that Lisa is featured on six tracks and the new album features overall more songs with vocals on it this time around. The band members Jonny Enright (trombone, organ), Finn Peters (saxes, flute), Jimmy LeMessurier (drums, vocals, keys), Pete Eckford (congas, bongos, percussions), John Crawford (piano, wurlitzer), Simon Edwards (bass, organ), Carlos A. Peña (vocals, guiro, maracas) are supported this time by Trevor Mires (trombone), Olly Drew (guitars), Julie-Ann Gillett Smith (violin) and Janina Kopinska (viola).
With eleven original compositions Food For Your Latin Soul is a cornucopia of inspiring Latin jazz songs.
Like on Brand New Love Lisa excels beyond the pumping house grooves she may be more familiar for. Whether she adds her magic to the soulful opener Get Through To You, the infectious percussive driven This Must Be The Place or sings with nonchalance on You Qualify, it’s good to hear her in an organic music setting that suits her voice much more than computer generated house beats.
It’s really hard to decide which is the best tune of Food For Your Latin Soul to satisfy your appetite. Actually they are all great. And unlike some uninspired fast food (read disposable music) these tunes will keep you satisfied, happy and dancing for a long time. Take the catchy Que Suene La Banda with Carlos A. Peña on vocals or the fast Latin house hybrid (with the emphasize on Latin of course) X-Posure with its great piano intro and tight brass section, which surely will cause some damage on discerning dancefloors. With the right remixes this may easily be a cross-over hit. Even the funky instrumental Spare Ribs can be enjoyed without reservation by a vegetarian like me.
Don’t go for any less than the real thing to nourish your Latin Soul. And Grupo X’s new album Food For Your Latin Soul is the real thing and you won’t find a better soulful Latin jazz album this year.

Tracklisting of Food For Your Latin Soul: 1. Get Through To You/ 2. This Must Be The Place/ 3. Que Suene La Banda/ 4. Sunshine/ 5. Spare Ribs/ 6. X-Perience/ 7. You Qualify/ 8. J’s Joint/ 9. Let’s Get Connected/ 10. For A lIfe/ 11. Quijada, Cajon Y Cencerro | released 2006 Loft Recordings

For more infos visit grupo-x.com.

[If you want to discuss Grupo X’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Courtesy of Jon Freer (mosoul.co.uk) here are twelve reviews of available and soon to be released 12″ singles (sorry no cover shots or tracklistings this time):

Peven Everett – Stuck (Soul Heaven)

Soul master Peven Everett has never been afraid to dabble in Housey waters, with his most famous vocal outing being on Roy Davis Jr’s magnificent UK Garage forging “Gabrielle” release. “Stuck” isn’t in the same league as that genre splitting track, but it is an infectious soul slanted House jam, which has received a deserved battering on cd-r over the last few months. Phil Asher supplies a slightly tougher reinterpretation, with bubbling keys, smooth guitars and snappy drums. Danny Krivit extends the track impressively, as light fingered guitar work and soft centered meet under Peven’s stressed vocals.

Niko – Womb (Atic)

It’s been a while since Niko’s last release on Grand Central surfaced and after severing ties with that Manchester institution, her music pops up on the fledgling Atic imprint. Atic is the musical baby of Andy ‘Aim’ Turner and the highlight of the label’s introductory EP is Niko’s gorgeous “Womb” track. Her new life embracing vocal display really shines on this offering, backed by slouchy hop percussion and shimmering instrumentation.

V/A – Traffic 3: #1/4 (Combination)

Combination strive to do things differently musically and here they’ve decided to make the format of their releases stand out too, by offering the third instalment from the Traffic series in four 10″ instalments. “Autorock” from Matt Flores is a mind-messing synth driven escapade, whilst Glagla’s “Nightlife” is home to wide-eyed keys and pleasant synths. Ada’s “Sternhagel” is an endearing little cut, where gorgeous keys and politely nagging synths rule.

Darkmountaingroup – Lose Control (Buzzin Fly)

Aimed squarely at the feet and the posterior, this wicked bassline driven dancefloor assault is the work of Alex S of Romadaal fame, and a couple of his Portugese mates. Bleepy surface keys, robotised synths and never giving up beats team up alongside the downright evil bass on “Lose Control”. The main elements of the track are also available separately, for those wishing to create maximum club mayhem.

The Similou – All This Love (DNM/Back Yard)

This is without doubt the popiest effort yet from a Nordic duo, who have swapped frozen House planes and rural Broken Soul pastures for the gleaming Electro-Pop lights of the city. “All This Love” is a catchy number, which features innocent keys and a perfect bass groove alongside typically Scandinavian lovelorn vocals. Zoo Brazil’s remix is a gutsy synth stabbed overhaul, whilst The Drill’s remix applies a little too much eyeliner.

Hösh / The Youngsters – Split 12″ (F…U!)

Two of F Comm’s most famous acts team up here on this all-star Techno mission. Hösh gives us “Savage/Hyneman Theorem”, where a muscular bass carries along nervous keys and running beats. Searing keys and an abrasive bass do the damage on The Youngsters’ “How To Kill The Idiot”.

Paul Nazca – Verdue (F…U!)

Heavy Techno is name of the game here, with Scandium Records boss Paul Nazca offering a couple of pummelling assaults on his F…U! debut. “Verdure” takes winding synths, pretty keys and a pushy bass on an exhilarating voyage. Fuzzy synths and distressing keys take centre stage on “Total Midi”.

Tosca – Souvenirs EP (G-Stone)

Lindstrom and Prins Thomas’ reinterpretation of “Zueri” really stands out from the rest on this 12″, which features three remixes plucked from a CD load of Tosca retouches. Guitars that sound like they’ve just regained conscious after a long sleep take the spotlight on Lindstrom and P-T’s fine overhaul. DSL’s lazing guitar addled remix of “Rondo Acapricio” and Stereotyp’s ugly bassed touch up of “Pyjama” also feature on this record.

The Spirals – Permission To Fly (Darkroom Dubs)

With more aliases than a team of master criminals, Julian Sanza and Fernando Pulichino enter the Darkroom for a spacey House party. “The Cowboy” marries cosmadelic synths with sparkling keys and mind corroding acid. Elated stabbing synths press the hypnotic “Bomba” into shape.

Immortal Technique feat. Chuck D & KRS 1 – Bin Laden (RMX) (Viper)

With a little help from a few legendary lyric deliverers, Immortal Technique vents his anger against foolish presidential decisions. The remix of “Bin Laden” brings in Chuck D and KRS 1 to add their support, as vocals from IT and the pair of Hip Hop heavyweights ride dejected keys and heavy beats. The original has a lighter feel and features a delivery from Mos Def alongside live drum hits, animated keys and IT’s irate words. Mumia Abu Jamal hits out against unnecessary violence on the gloomy key driven “The War Vs US All”.

Trevor Loveys – Digitial Watch / Leg Warmer (Front Room)

Loveys fattens out the grooves for maximum hip shaking appeal on this two tracker for Jesse Rose and Chris Belsey’s Front Room imprint. “Digital Watch” supplies amusing synth slides and firework keys alongside portly beats and reliable bass noises. The synths lose it on “Leg Warmer”, as shocked keys and a muttering bass try to hold the record together.

Newcleus – Destination Earth (1999) (Deeplay Soultec)

When the original version of this record was conceived in the mid 80s, 1999 was a long way away. Now 1999 is only a memory and Deeplay give “Destination Earth” a new Techy lease of life, with powerful updates from Dibaba, Martin Brodin and Dream 2 Science. Dibaba’s ‘Starry Dynamo Remix’ is a menacing revision, with shrill synth shrieks, contorted key dalliances and a grating bass. A pushy synth arrangement, pleased keys and violent beats meet on the ‘Martin Brodin vs Candy Station Soultec Dub’. Soothing synths try to calm filtrated beats and a buoyant bass on the ‘Dream 2 Science Remix’.

daysahead is a band that has truly developed their own sound that sets them apart from the rest of the new/neo/nu soul movement. What may sound odd at first is that they hardly use any keys on their debut album Turning Point. Instead they rely on the strength of guitar (acoustic and electric), bass and drums and of course on the impressive voice of Kim Leachman. And it’s this combination of musical instruments and daysahead’s own blend of soul, funk and rock that is a welcome breath of fresh air in today’s music scene. All songs were written by Kim Leachman and Steve Wright, who also plays the guitars. The two other members of daysahead are Myron Carroll (bass) and James Berrett (drums).
The album starts with the powerful, lively You Move Me, which like most of the songs explores the never ending mystery of human relationships. Things get a little smoother with Love Is Love while Falling Flower has a healthy rock element thrown into the song.
For me Daysahead sounds best when it comes to downtempo like For The Love with a nice Isley like electric guitar solo or Good Ole’ Days, my favourite song, with its beautiful melody and Kim’s personal lyrics taking a trip down memory lane (by the way the only song here with some keys).
It’s In Your Hands finally sees daysahead with some socially conscious lyrics (”How high is the cost of war/ Who are we dying for/ Yearning to learn to live in peace/ Can’t we learn to just dance“) sung by Kim over a swinging uptempo groove.
Another highlight is the soulful Take Your Time. The song’s message not to rush anything must be made for me (and my desire to take my time with the records reviewed here is also the reason why it sometimes takes a few days until a new review is posted).
Courting A Fantasy is another winner with Kim being accompanied by Steve on acoustic guitar only.
And if you’re looking for a song that sums up what daysahead is all about than listen to the nine and a half minute of Don’t Fall Too Fast (Directions) which successfully makes the transition from soul to rock. Maybe that’s what The Family Stand would sound today if they were still with Sandra St. Victor and if Moon In Scorpio would’ve been a successful album saleswise.
Altogether Turning Point is a very good debut album from a band with a distinctive sound that’s left field from the soul mainstream in a refreshing way.

Tracklisting of Turning Point: 1. You Move Me/ 2. Love Is Love/ 3. Falling Flower/ 4. For The Love/ 5. Good Ole’ Days/ 6. It’s In Your Hands/ 7. Days Ahead/ 8. Take Your Time/ 9. Don’t Fall Too Fast/ 10. Courting A Fantasy | released 2005 Nightingale60 Publishing, Stephen Wright

For more infos visit cdbaby.com and daysaheadmusic.com.

[If you want to discuss the daysahead’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Courtesy of Jon Freer (mosoul.co.uk) here are seven reviews of available and soon to be released albums (sorry no cover shots or tracklistings this time):

V/A – Atlantic Jaxx: A Compilation Vol 2 (Atlantic Jaxx)

I believe that the Jaxxsters saved some of their best material for their own Altantic Jaxx imprint. Appealing House and slow movin’ souly stuff can be found on this second label round up, which features Jaxx archive material alongside good stuff from label mates and the occasional duff tune. Basement Jaxx’s own “City People” is a jubilant synthoid stormer, with over-excited key sweeps, an obliterating bass and romantic vocodered vocals. The ‘Deep Dub 1′ of Yen Sung’s “Do You” places thumpin’ carnival beats and a nasty bass behind tentative keys. An orchestralated string arrangement, loveable keys and careful percussion meet on the sublime Jaxx penned “Urban Haze”. Worth it for the Jaxx oldies alone!

Emmanuel – D’Illusions Of Grandeur (Little League)

Emmanuel’s debut long player is an impressively instrumentated collection of Hip Hop, Neo Soul and Broken Soul cuts. Put together with help from a striking list of collaborators, “D’Illusions Of Grandeur” contains a number of lovely soul-scorched tunes. “Dámelo” feat Belle is a desireful number, with caring guitars and smart percussion. Daniel DeBourg expresses feelings of dismay at falling in love on the reliably percussed “Quicksand”. “Proof” lets Sandra Escoffery philosophise over revealing guitar work and hushed keys. Nu Brit Hop Soul!

Lushlife – Order Of Operations (Scenario)

This release from Lushlife is well produced and musically bright, but unfortunately lacks charisma in places. Standouts are provided in the form of recent single “No Foundation”, where jerked keys and law laying down beats rule, and the beautiful knotted sax interlude entitled “Nocturne Pour Les Coins D’elle Yeux”. There’s some nifty samplin’, well spoken rappin’ and cool souly bits, but there’s a nagging feeling that “Order Of Operations” could have perhaps been a little more exciting in places.

V/A – Spiritland: The Funk & Soul of Blue Eyed Rock (Harmless)

On this compilation, knowledgeable scribe and spinner Bill Brewster charts an age where rockin’ artists looked to Black America for inspiration and produced some pretty tasty music. The soul influences can be felt on these bare sounding, guitarry compositions. Gino Vannelli’s “People Gotta Move On” commands from a refuge where weighty keys, strict drums and bass that enjoys life dwell. Romantic brass, gorgeous flutes and committed guitars meet on the beaming “Happy Cause I’m Coming Home” by Chicago. Sax-acrobatics take pride of place on “Spooky” by Classics IV. Engaging stuff.

Muallem – Frankie Spits (Compost)

David Muallem makes powerfully executed electronic hop. This album ranges from nu-electroid madness to housier fair and even includes the occasional fracturedly beaten cut. “Some Loving” sees Martine Girault provide lustful vocalizations over echoey guitar hits and an imposing bass. The cosmical “Shanti Dance” sees brightly coloured synths and driving guitars get down with gorgeous keys and powerful drums. “Cruising” fractures beats under authority stamping guitars and wide-eyed synths. Due to the nature of some of the tracks present, it’s quite likely that this album will be snapped up by fashion chasing muso’s, but there’s something to Muallem’s compositions that suggests his work will endure unlike that of many of those who pander to musical trends and crazes.

Joe Silva – Loudmouth Sirens (Purespace)

Housey in outlook, this interesting album from Winnipeg’s Joe Silva mixes cold techy cuts with bumpy grooved material. There’s there occasional excursion down other musical avenues, but all cuts retain an electronic precision and breath-catching edginess. “Your House” is home to a frowning bass, hopeful strings and positive keys. “Life In Suede” places excited trumpeting and strange keys over pondering guitars and crushed beats. “Like You” is a drunken come-on, with stumbling keys and a pained bass. Worth investigating…

Birdy Nam Nam – Album (KIF/Uncivilized World)

This scratchadelic collection comes from a musical team whose world begins and also ends with Hip Hop and turntable trickery. They may visit various musical lands on their travels, but Birdy Nam Nam are b-boys at heart. Their album is full of clunky beat driven numbers, which are mostly short in length. BNN’s tracks impress except when the group ventures too far towards weird territories. “Body, Mind, Spirit” lets a pipe type instrument sing its heart out over thoughtful keys, clumsy percussion and a snarling bass. Grand strings, vulnerable keys and whispered vox get soaked on “Rainstorming”. “Migration” is an uptempo bruk gem, with watery keys, live bass steps and crazed scratchin’. Bon!

What at first struck me about Marcus Strickland was his surname. As a German Strickland sounds very German to me and it could easily be the name of a store selling knitware and wool. Strick means knitware and the verb stricken means to knit, das Land is the same as the English noun land. Well, so much for the names…luckily Marcus music doesn’t sound German at all.
Marcus is a soprano and tenor saxophone player in his mid-twenties and Brotherhood his already his second album (his debut album was At Last). Like its predecessor it’s recorded in the quartet setting with Robert Glasper (piano), Brandon Owens (bass) and E.J. Strickland (drums, and Marcus’ twin brother by the way). Trumpeter Jeremy Pelt joins the quartet for two tracks. With all nine tunes being original compositions (eight were written by Marcus and Unsung Hero by E.J. Strickland) we really have a talented no-nonsense jazz band here who are serious about their music. Nevertheless, they know they are playing for their listeners as much as they play for themselves and the love of jazz music as an art form. “I think that my group reaches the audience because, although the music we play presents challenge, we are still able to have fun displaying our personality,” Marcus says. “Correctly playing a complicated form of music isn’t enough to demand attention from a listener. It’s the enthusiasm of taking chances, the expression that perks up the listener’s ear.”
The overall sound of the Markus Strickland Quartet is warm and organic and I especially like the idea of Robert Glasper switching to electric piano on some songs. The result on songs like Splendour is, er, splendid adding some soul into the jazz. In fact, I’m sure fans of the jazz instrumentals of Fertile Ground or the early Roberta Flack will love this song, the introspective Amen or the ballad Excerpts.
Marcus Strickland and his fellow musicians are very versatile and of course they can also impress on more traditional jazz songs like the swinging Saouse, the hard bop Values & Predators or Epiphany. It’s hard to pick a favourite song from Brotherhood. They are all well-composed and maybe even better interpreted leaving me somehow astonished that this is only the second album of Marcus Strickland and his quartet with all being in their early/mid-twenties.
All in all Brotherhood is a real treasure worth hunting for even three years after its original release because it has that timless quality.

Tracklisting of Brotherhood: 1. Brotherhood/ 2. Values & Imperatives/ 3. Splendour/ 4. Amen/ 5. Predator/ 6. Epiphany/ 7. Excerpt/ 8. Saouse/ 9. The Unsung Hero | released 2003 Marcus Strickland

For more infos visit cdbaby.com and marcusstrickland.com.

[If you want to discuss Marcus Strickland’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Now that’s what one can call an interesting turn. Larry Epstein, whose musicality surely runs in the family with his father and grandfather being bassists too, is Acting Principal Bassist of the San Francisco Symphony and had previously played with the orchestra of Miami, Milwaukee and Strasbourg (France). To be honest I wouldn’t have assumed that a musician earning his daily bread with playing classical music in an orchestra would release such a relaxed and very good straight ahead jazz album. Me and my prejudices!
Larry teamed up with excellent musicians to support him on myTunes: Mathhew Clark (piano), Erik Jekabson (trumpet), Eddie Marshall (drums), John Santos (percussion) [some of you may remember John from his album Mambo Jazz recorded with Bobby Matos - the one with I Don’t Speak Spanish (But I Understand Everything When I’m Dancing) on it], and Harvey Wainapel (saxes).
Larry says about his debut album, “This music is easy to listen to to, but, is NOT ‘easy listening’ music. The presentation is straighforward; the appeal is simple and direct.” And he’s right. It’s music you can listen to without getting irritated by odd solos but it still has enough depth if you take your time and listen closely to his music. All songs are original compostitions and with most songs being mid- or downtempo they are perfect for the Blue Hour, the period between sunset and dark.
The driving Rat Race makes a good herald when you still feel the energy of a sunny and bright day but know that dusk will soon be with you. Then there’s the mellow latin inspired Passeggiata or the slow, wishfully yearning ballad Oh, What Could Have Been which features Larry on electric upright bass. It’s About Time further explores the melancholy theme with its slow groove. Blue Waltz features a bowed bass for a change while A Change Of Mood is a pleasant midtempo song. The introspective From Then Till Now (again with bowed bass) closes this excellent album. If only it would’ve been a longer than the fourtyfive minutes. But then, a Blue Hour isn’t often really an hour except maybe in mid-summer…so like I said perfect for this special time of day (and every other time as well for quality music fans.)

Tracklisting of myTunes!: 1. Rat Race/ 2. Passeggiata/ 3. Oh, What Could Have Been/ 4. It’s About Time/ 5. Blue Waltz/ 6. A Change Of Mood/ 7. From Then Till Now | released 2005 Tonality Records

For more infos visit cdbaby.com and sfsymphony.org.

[If you want to discuss Larry Epstein’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Yes, I admit it. I’m a sucker for a lush string section and a great singer. And then it really doesn’t matter if he or she sings only cover versions. Plus it’s good to hear Naima Shamborguer on a new self-released record after she impressed me with A Blossom Sings.
“From My Heart To Yours is my dream project. It is a CD of ballads with different tempos,” Naima told me in her jazz-not-jazz interview last year. And what a marvelous dream Naima must have had.
From My Heart To Yours offers twelve heartfelt interpretation of standards and one original composition. Again, Naima succeeds in making the songs her own.
The album starts with a moving rendition of Smile with a string laden instrumentation, a song written by Charlie Chaplin. The instrumental version originally appeared in the soundtrack of Modern Times in 1936. You may remember the final scene of this movie when Charlie and the gamine (his wife Paulette Goddard by the way) walk down the road to a new life. When they get up off the grass strip, he pauses and points to the corners of his mouth, indicating that she should smile. And listening to her singing and Dwight Adams’ muted trumpet it sounds like Naima wants to recapture this moment with her being Chaplin and the trumpet being the gamine.
Other highlights include Naima’s collaboration with George Benson, the bluesy Fuchsia Mood (with music by George, who also plays saxophone on this track, and lyrics by Naima) and a swinging version of If You Could See Me Now (made famous by Sarah Vaughn).
Sure Thing, a Gershwin/Kern song that first appeared in the movie Cover Girl with Rita Hayworth and Gene Kelly, gets redone as showstopping ballad with great strings and a fine bass solo by Marion Hayden. I’ll Be Seeing You is a duet with veteran singer Don Revels (of Five Pearls and Society Train fame) and it features a nice bass clarinet solo by Wendell Harrison.
Legrande’s What Are You doing For The Rest Of Your Life and Cole Porter’s In The Still Of The Night have a welcome Latin flavour thanks to Mahindi Masi’s percussion.
And the lesson learned for me with this album is, that I really can’t get warm with Stephen Sondheim’s songs. Don’t ask me why, Naima does a great job on Send In The Clowns, the instrumentation of strings and harp is fine, but I still can’t get into this song.
To sum it up From My Heart To Yours is a great, independently released jazz album by a singer who (hopefully) won’t be Detroit’s best kept secret any longer.

Tracklisting of From My Heart To Yours: 1. Smile/ 2. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life/ 3. Here’s To Life/ 4. Fuchsia Mood/ 5. Send In The Clowns/ 6. Nearness Of You/ 7. When October Goes/ 8. If You Could See Me Now/ 9. Lush Life/ 10. Sure Thing/ 11. I’ll Be Seeing you/ 12. In The Still Of The Night | released 2006 Shambones Music

For more infos visit cdbaby.com and naima.mybesthost.com and read my interview with Naima Shamborguer.

[If you want to discuss Naima Shamborguer’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Courtesy of Jon Freer (mosoul.co.uk) here are 13 reviews of available and soon to be released 12″ singles (sorry no cover shots or tracklistings this time):

Bajka – I Can No Poet Be (Jazzman)

This slice of spiritually aware Jazz could have been a musical child of the 70s, but is actually a brand new record vocalized by Bajka and produced by the funkateering Das Goldenes Zeitalter group. A furore causing sax vents its anger over sedating keys, an enslaving bass and spiritually inspired vocals on “I Can No Poet Be”. Pushy beats and bass shove a feverish sax and life pondering keys in the right direction on “Love’s Serenity”.

Das Goldenes Zeitalter – A Vision (Jazzman)

Organic nu funk earnestness meets lofty jazz spirituality on this rather charming three tracker. A relentless bass, horses’ hooves type percussion, delightful keys and a pain relieving flute produce the ecclesiastical image on “A Vision”. Mean brass, giddy keys and unfatigueable drums provide the forceful push on “Breakin’ Through”. “Im Würgegriff der Schönen Künste” is home to utopian flutes, keys that keep moving and an untrustworthy bass.

Landslide & Don Freeman – Conundrum (Sick Trumpet)

The immensely talented Landslide serves up the second release on Liverpool’s rising Sick Trumpet imprint. “Conundrum” is a fun broken step number, with chopped beats, synth hi-jinks and puzzled vocals from Don Freeman. The ‘Grimey Mix’ draws on Landslide’s love for 2-Step production aesthetics, shoving a nasty bass under polite strings and firm beats. Phil Asher supplies a minor key driven broken soul rejig, with carried away synths and emotional chords.

Tunng – The Pioneers (Static Caravan)

In an unexpected move, Tunng take Bloc Party’s ambition heavy number and reshape in an impressive manner for the folktronic market. Flapping in wind guitars, faithful vocals and light-footed beats meet on Tunng’s cover version of “The Pioneers”. “Tale From Black” is a gooey bassed morbid tale, whilst “Pool Beneath The Pond” sees a dusty banjo and romantic strings search for a dreamland.

The Strange Sound Orchestra – Strange Sense Of Liberty (Static Caravan)

The SSO threw down their conventional music making devices in order to make this EP using a host of weird and wonderful instruments. “Strange Sense Of Liberty” places artificial beats under jolly keys, cascading keys and a hummable bass. “Come On Dulcimer People (Pts 1 & 2)” is a rather weird number, with string type shakes, whispering wind sounds and a bass that could be made by a didgeridoo’s distant cousion. The Strange Sound Orchestra save the best for last, as the sugary kalimba driven “The Algorithim” rounds off the EP.

Kobbe & Trish Van Eynde – Exploration (F…U! F Com)

Powerful Techno is the name of the game here, with Kobbe & Trish Van Eynde serving up a pair of fearsome yet impressive dancefloor bangers. “Exploration” places a formidable bass under scowling synths and precise beats. “Voyager” is a belting number, with angular beats, a focused bass and detached synths.

Sao Paris – Ria (Remixes) (F Com)

Brazilian vocalist Letricia Maura and French producer Thomas Ferriere, of Limbo Experience fame, form the ear catching Sao Paris outfit. On this release, “Ria” has been reformed for Techier dancefloors. Fla & Chris Carrier’s remix dices up Letricia’s vocals, as a dangerous bass battles it out with controlling acid. Sex Schön’s remix is a downright nasty overhaul, with slap in face percussion, pummelling synths and a snarling bass.

My Robot Friend – 23 Minutes In Brussels (Soma)

Poppy electro fiends My Robot Friend arrive on Soma to cause some guitar fuelled electronic mayhem. “23 Minutes In Brussels” pits jolting beats and a demented bass against chimed keys and elongated guitar notes. MRF’s own ‘Super Jazzy Extended Version’ lets engaging keys and showy guitars flex their combined musical muscles a little further, whilst Tommie Sunshine delivers a couple of wailingly guitarred and heavy bassed refixes.

Jake Childs feat. Alexander East – The Pain EP (Freerange)

Jake Childs teams up with vocal powerhouse Alexander East on this straightforward House offering. Cold beats, glassy keys and a gratifying bass sit behind reassuring vocals on the original version. A wonkified bass pulls all the moves on Jake Child’s ‘Life After Death Dub’, whilst robotic beats and automated keys follow their instructions on Alexander East’s own Dub.

Boys Of Scandinavia – Why Do You Love Me? (Mate)

Lovers of macabre electro, shadowy disco and bleak guitar workouts, Helsinki’s Boys Of Scandinavia return with a twisted love song. Overwrought vocals ride assiduous drums and a chaffing bass on the fun original version. Marching percussion, arty guitars and a polluted bass make the Major Tweaks remix a darker proposition.

Digital Midgets – Caught Ya Wrecker (Backini RMX) (Cookshop)

Backini’s overhaul of “Caught Ya Wrecker” is the finest cut on Digital Midgets new “Delete The Frog EP”. Stop start guitar strumming, levelheaded keys and diced vocals meet on Backini’s stuttering touch-up.

Dr. Rubberfunk – Watch The Tables Turn (GPS)

Rubberfunk gets it right on this release when he ditches the vox and Hip Hop style posturing for some live sounding funkrobatics. Gorgeous guitar work, smiling synths and measured percussion makes the ‘Live Wired’ mix the pick of the bunch.

Groove Junkies – Just Groovin’ (Om)

OK, so this is never going to win awards for originality, but “Just Groovin’” is a likeably good-natured slice of peaktime House. Plum for the ‘Classic Roots’ version, where enthusiastic keys, loveable saxes and beautiful flutes do a sparkling dance.

The World Soul Project is a collective of musicians and singers who have a welcome organic sound and who bring us their own blend of soul and jazz with a major Brazilian influence.
The core of this band are five muscians: Gerard Harris (guitar), Ben Flint (piano, keyboards), Barry Campbell (bass), James Sexton (drums) and Ekpe (percussion). On five songs they are joined by six singers: Will Graves (a Memphis soul singer), Patricia Reis, Adriano Faquini (both native Brazilians), Kimko Joy and Vicki Newsum, a Stax session singer.
All songs are original compositions recorded at Gerard Harris’s studio in Memphis,TN.
With 13 songs on offer there’s enough to keep any fan of independent quality music happy.
The album’s opener, which is also the closer in a live version, is a nice brazilian influenced sunny tune summing up the main message of the World Soul Project (Someday We Will All See Freedom/ From Hunger, from Sorrow, from War and Sickness/ Someday We Will All See Freedom, Peace on Earth).
Kinshasa is an instrumental with a slight South African touch while Your Eyes is one of the highlights for soul music fans. Here we have Will Graves singing on a jazzy soulful tune. Watch out for the solo album Love Stories from Will coming soon in 2006!
Other highlights include Love Divine, a fine soul song sung by Kimko Joy somewhere between 70s Doug Carn and today’s Fertile Ground. Also worth mentioning is Esperando with Patricia Reis, Adriano Faquini and Vicki Newsum on vocals, that carries on with the Brazilian vibe of Someday.
All in all this is a very strong debut release by the World Soul Project. The only objection may be the sound on a few tracks which have a raw demo feeling. But then you know this album isn’t produced to death and the muscians really came together for the joy of making music.

Tracklisting: 1. Someday/ 2. Kinsasha/ 3. Whisper Now/ 4. Your Eyes/ 5. Intrigue/ 6. Love Divine/ 7. Night Moods/ 8. Hard Left/ 9. Crank Up the Dog/ 10. Esperando/ 11. Don’t Give Up On Me/ 12. Almost There/ 13. Someday (live) | released 2005 Ben Flint/Gerard Harris

For more infos visit cdbaby.com, willgraves.com and Ben Flint’s site on IUMA [if you’re getting an 403 or time out error like me try the web archive.]

[If you want to discuss the World Soul Project’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Philadelphia! As vintage movie buff I will always remember W.C. Fields and his quotes about Philadelphia like “Last week, I went to Philadelphia, but it was closed.” or in a conversation with a hangman “Have you any last wish?” - Fields: “Yes, I’d like to see Paris before I die. (pause) Philadelphia will do.”
Musicwise Philly looks like the place to be these days with lots of good musicians. Natural Selection is another fantastic collective of musicians hailing from the city of brotherly love. And a name you should keep in mind!
Alesia Dessau formed Natural Selection in 1996 as a jazz quartet. But by 2006 they have adopted an organic lively soul sound which will certainly appeal to fans of Fertile Ground, Seek, Jazzhole or Sirius B Project.
Altogether eleven musicians participated on this album. Attentive readers of this website will remember Monica McIntyre from the Monica Dillion album All I Have Is A Moment. On Come On Over she appears as cellist and background vocalist. And it’s her cello that grabs your attention on the albums opener Meant To Be, a powerful midtempo soul song. Just like on Monica Dillon’s album I think the cello is a great instrument to give a soul song more depth and that goose pimples feeling. And I wish it could be heard more often in this context.
Naturally Alesia’s impressive voice and songwriting talent have a equal contribution to the greatness of this album. And actually I could praise all eleven songs here, they are all quality stuff with a capital Q. Take Get Through for example, a great soul song with an uplifting message. Now You’re Gone is another winner with its warm instrumentation and Alesia’s emotional vocal input. The beautiful ballad Come Into My Love with its heartfelt lyrics adds further proof that this is simply a must have album for any true soul music fan.
Come On Over is an album I can recommend wholeheartedly and it’s already one of my favourite albums for 2006.
I began this review with W.C. Fields, so why not close it with a quote from him: “All things considered, I’d rather be in Philadelphia.”

Tracklisting of Come On Over: 1. Meant To Be/ 2. 10/15/01/ 3. Get Through/ 4. Come On Over/ 5. Unity/ 6. Now You’re Gone/ 7. Fly Away/ 8. Sweet Intruder/ 9. Come Into My Love/ 10. Make It Easy/ 11. Time To Say Goodbye | released 2005 Natural Selection

For more infos visit naturalselectionmusic.com and cdbaby.com.

[If you want to discuss Natural Selection’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Courtesy of Jon Freer (mosoul.co.uk) here are twenty-two reviews of available and soon to be released 12″ singles (sorry no cover shots or tracklistings this time):

Ramjac feat. Natalie Gardiner – Arise (Ramjac)

Ramjac has taken a production leap of faith here and by doing so has created the first broken soul masterpiece of 2006. “Arise” is coloured by synths that are so deformed, you’d assume there was a lot of dust stuck to your needle. Somehow, these disfigured synths fit perfectly under Natalie’s meditative vocals, and there’s even an instrumental for maximum distorted pleasure. Flip for the unkempt percussion and restrained key work of “Sweetest Child of Mine”, which is thankfully a polite soulful gem, and not a cover of a heavy rock track.

Various – Hot As Hel! EP (Nine 2 Five)

Clearly a reference to the Finnish city where the artists hail from and not a reference to the immorality of their music, “Hot As Hel!” sells Helsinki pretty well to broken soul lovers. Katriina is incredulous at the loss of love on “Spared Your Kiss”, where her silky vocals lie across teardrop keys and unhappy strings. J-City’s “All You Give” is a brilliant persuasive number, with clear-thinking brass, repeating keys and proto-D&B percussion. Present Sense’s “Nature Girl” sends awkward lurve vocals over stumbling percussion and spacey synths.

Rondenion – Blue Rhodes Dances (Still Music)

Tokyo based Hirofumi Goto aka Rondenion debuts on Still Music with a tasty four tracker of Detroit respecting out-there House cuts. The fine “Blue Rhodes Dances” is a leisurely groovester, with unhurried beats and pondering keys. “Machine Dolls” works curious keys over beats that are crooked at the start, but are straightened out by the end, whilst “Shake Dance” is a pressurising synth led excursion. “Parallel Translation” rounds off the EP with some serious Theo style percussion, contorted keys and emotion expressing vocals.

Timo Lassy – African Rumble / High At Noon (Ricky-Tick)

Sax fanatic Timo Lassy gets the chance to speak his mind on this 12″, released on the new Jazz supporting Ricky Tick label. The ace “African Rumble” sees supporting percussion and a chiming piano make room for Lassy’s sax exertions. An authorative sax barks orders over an in-line piano, bass and percussion display on “High At Noon”.

Dalindèo – Go Ahead, Float / Voodoo (Ricky-Tick)

With a passion for Brazilian percussion and an obvious heartfelt love of expressive Jazz, Dalindèo create a powerful musical fusion. “Go Ahead, Float” lets a tight-lipped trumpet battle it out with an overexcited flute over reliable guitar work and rugged percussion. The haunting “Voodoo” puts the flute in the spotlight, as regimented percussion, enjoying life guitars and a complimentary trumpet work wonders behind the scenes.

Laurentius – Karate (Samba SciFi RMX) (Needs)

Lars Bartkuhn of Frankfurt’s super-deep Needs crew displays his musical martial arts on this fine single track release. Digitised violin type strings put up a considerable fight, battling satisfying chords, pleasing keys and energetic beats.

Jonny Miller – Cold Air (Phuture Lounge)

Manc broke beat don and all round nice guy Mr. Miller debuts on Phuture Lounge with a three tracker of typically rhythmically elaborate compositions. “Rise” is a considerately keyed number, where malfunctioning computer fx spew their juices over active beats and a bad-tempered bassline. “Cold Air” is subtle as the title suggests, with slight keys and bass questions providing the chill, whilst “9-8-0″ winds dizzy synths and unruly keys over a delightfully messy drum track.

David Borsu – Move (Counterpoint)

To be honest, this standard broken House outing from talented Belgian producer David Borsu isn’t in the same league as his astonishing “Monster EP”. Sure “Move” features nu-soul goddess Navasha Daya of Fertile Ground fame, but in spiritually unconscious party mode and lacing a standard bass and beats combo, even the angelic Daya fails to dazzle. It’s not all doom and gloom though, because broken remix master of the moment Mark de Clive-Lowe supplies a couple of super remixes, where inquisitive keys, oddball synths and crunchy beats work their magic.

The Politik – Money (Don’t Let It Catch Ya) (Antipodean)

Fractured soul vocal Queen Bémbé Ségué hooks up with the super talented Mark De Clive-Lowe, this time to mark the dawn of their Politik partnership. The vocal version sees Bémbé’s wise words coat a gruff bass guitar, falling keys and sparkling beats. The instrumental lets deft guitars, gooey keys and unapologetic percussion shine.

V/A – The Freesoul Sessions (Antipodean)

Born out of a freestylin’ live extravaganza with a wealth of talented musicians, Mark De Clive-Lowe’s Freesoul Sessions makes its vinyl debut. Fluidous keys and crazy synths take centre stage on an energetic broken stormer, which is logically titled ‘Part 1′. A fun-loving bass guides blind keys in the right direction on ‘Part 2′, as the tempo is slowed right down for ‘Part 3′, where keys smile at sluggish beats and a post-funk bass.

Antonio Ocasio feat. Mustafa Akbar – Higher Love (Counterpoint)

Tribal Winds head Antonio Ocasio comes correct with an expertly orchestrated super-deep escapade. Afrocentric percussion, active keys and a magical fute sit behind Mustafa Akbar’s craving on the vocal version. Shakin’ beats, loveable keys and sweet sax groovings colour the heated ‘Calor Mix’.

Faze Action pres. Orto feat. Vanessa Freeman – Waiting Is Over (Papa)

Funked up disco reshapers Faze Action have opted for a name change to ‘Orto’, in order to put out some broken jazz tunes. “Waiting Is Over” is a cleanly made fractured jazzer, with spot hitting keys, ear catching strings and rousing vocals. 83 West supply a couple of tasty House interpretations, where the synths push further and strings reach higher.
[note: also read my review of Waiting Is Over here - Dirk]

Sexicanz vs. MegaDank 4200 – Futuristic Funk (Deepfunk Records)

The mysterious Sexicanz open their account on Deepfunk, bringing the inimitable MegaDank with them. The sassy Sexicanz track on this EP is “More Bass”, where messy synth lines and imposing vocals bow down to a commanding bassline. The Dankster gives us a tightly rapped bass groover entitled “Futuristic Funk”, which becomes a jingling live bass effort when rejigged by Sprayfonk.

The Separatists – Audiomer (Soma)

It’s been a while, but the scarily named Percy X is back and here he hooks up with Marco Bernardi for a serious Techno onslaught. The winner on this EP is the title track, where stinging synths battle seriously ill keys for supremacy.

Sons And Daughters – Dance Me In / La Lune (Optimo RMXS) (Domino)

Adored by the style press and trend-centred muso’s, Optimo prove their worth on this 12″, where they split up to remix a couple of tracks by Sons And Daughters. The ‘Naum Gabo’ remix of “La Lune” by JG Wilkes and his production partner James is a fine reinterep, where raspy guitars, a fuzzy bass and courteous beats meet. JD Twitch & The Truffle Club’s mix of “Dance Me In” will get heavy rotation, courtesy of its stern guitar work, radiant beats and figure hugging bass.

Sean Dimitrie feat. Felicia Lee – Dr. Doo Yoo (Reverberations)

This cheeky little record sees vocalist Felicia Lee recount an encounter with a rather too attentive Doctor. In original form, her rude rap coasts over sitting back keys, diva wails and a bad bass. Fred Everything’s Remix adds a heavier bass and jagged synths, whilst Asad Rizvi’s darker version invites a scowling bass to join the party.

The Rurals – Tree Of Tension (Digi-Pêng)

It sounds like these forgotten Rurals tracks were made some time ago, but there’s nothing wrong with well-produced past embracing House. The highlight is the ridiculously minimal yet on point “Space”, where wistful keys are backed by cymbal heavy percussion. “Tree Of Tension” is a nervy keyed thumper, whilst “Jimmy Le Funk” marries demanding brass with live bass delving.

Verb T & Harry Love – Delusion (Silent Soundz)

UK Hoppers Verb T & Mr. Love launch a three pronged attack with this EP on the Silent Soundz imprint. “Delusion” coaches the listener over agile strings and simple beats, whilst “Make It Hott (Please)” is an exhibition of bravado and “Hypnotizm” fascinates.

Kano – Brown Eyes / Signs In Life (679)

Rising star Kano has culled these couple of hot cuts from his unit shifting first LP. “Brown Eyes” is a startlingly honest declaration of love, backed by kind keys, a Kanye style sped up vox lick and cut beats. “Signs In Life” cautions those living fast lives, with Kano’s street tales moving over strained strings and a negative bass. The bonus track is a remix of “Sometimes” featuring Klashnekoff, where crying woodwind and a bass barely in motion do the damage.

Haftor Medbøe Group – Sampler (Linn)

Liberating jazz with classical curtseys and subtle electronic poking is perhaps the most accurate way to describe the music of the Edinburgh based Haftor Medbøe Group. A sugary sax weaves a syrupy trail over well-mannered strings and close to ground percussion on “Little Auk”. The pretty “Spor” receives a pulse from its percussion, which sits contently under flexing guitars and flourishing strings. “In Perpetuity” stretches out, as guitar notes are plucked over a bed of level brass, shining strings and melodica kisses.

Choi – The Way We Are (Younglee & Jake Sax RMX) (Equatorial)

Ok_Ma get on the remix tip, brushing up a cut by Choi for Melbourne’s Equatorial imprint. Charming keys and fizzing synths work their magic under some rather pleased vocals on their re-rub of “The Way We Are”.

Test Icicles – What’s Your Damage? (RMXS) (Domino)

French House darlings Alan Braze and Digitalism give those Punked-up screamers a good seeing too. Braxe and Fred Falke’s remix is rather too polite, as a sea of courteous synths and civil percussion submerges those irate vocals. Digitalism give Test Icicles a deserved kick in the balls and thus their deliciously fierce remix comes complete with sandpaper guitars, whipped beats and smeared vocals.

Dee Robinson is a poet and she has previously released WomanFlower, an album you could file under spoken words with a soul/jazz background.
The recently released The Voyage by the Black Pearls project has a different approach. Though it features some spoken words it’s basically a soul album. The idea to this album was born when several friends of Dee performed songs on her birthday party. A few days later Dee teamed up with producer N’Visible Man and nine fellow musicians to form the Black Pearls. The result is a very good collection of musically versatile songs with all but one song being original compositions by Dee. At times The Voyage reminds me of better Malaco/Southern Soul releases by Denise LaSalle or Shirley Brown for example.
The introductory A Black Pearl Is finds Dee praising the virtues of black women while the soulful midtempo groove of the 80s inspired Truly introduces Jasmine who does a little bit of Shirley Brown on this song with alternating singing and talking.
Tonya Taylor is another new name for me, who guests on the equally appealing I Never Knew. Actually Dee has chosen all her fellow musicians wisely. And there’s no argueing about the vocal input of Dee’s nine Black Pearls. Personal highlights include Bonnie Harvey on Sounds Like The Blues To Me. Bonnie reminds us why soul has its origins in Rhythm & Blues [that was of course before the acronym R&B became Black Pop]. Bonnie also impresses on the catchy Sing A Prayer.
Thressa Gardner, a mezzo soprano, does an interesting and rather unusual version of Gershwin’s Summertime giving it the opera treatment in a medley with Dee’s own Sweet Pearl Of Summer.
Also worth mentioning is Delores Major’s hypnotic electric violin solo on Slowrocker’s Groove…somehow reminiscent of a slow Isley Brothers song with a violin instead of a guitar. By the way, Dee also recorded a version of this song with Maurice White on saxophone on her WomanFlower album.
Altogether The Voyage is a very good showcase of black music with its inclusion of soul, blues, neo-soul/R&B and even hints of smooth jazz. Of course, it’s also a strong showcase for the talented “Black Pearls” involved here. This album truly offers something for every fan of black music without being undetermined.

Tracklisting of The Voyage: 1. A Black Pearl Is/ 2. Truly/ 3. I Never Knew/ 4. Sometimes Right Now/ 5. Fine Lines/ 6. Sounds Like the Blues To Me/ 7. Summertime/Sweet Pearl of Summer/ 8. Maybe This Time/ 9. Black Pearl Strut/ 10. It’s Never Too Late/ 11. Sing a Prayer/ 12. Slowrocker’s Groove | released 2005 Dee Robinson

For more infos visit theblackpearls.net, cdbaby.com and mentaltainment.com.

[If you want to discuss Dee Robinson’s music, you can leave your comment below and also use the forum]

Courtesy of Jon Freer (mosoul.co.uk) here are ten reviews of available and soon to be released albums (sorry no cover shots or tracklistings this time):

V/A – Joe Claussell: Translate (NRK)

One of the few people in our musical world willing to make bold statements and stand up for what they believe in, Claussell has made his mark with his devoutly spiritual outlook. This compilation, a brave release for NRK, captures the essence of the man; revealing his concern at the state of our earth, his fascination with life outside our world and a love of intense techy records. In recent times his production work has taken on a rawer and more overtly African feel, highlighted by the output of his Sacred Rhythm label and shown here by the inclusion of the unprocessed demo version of “Eno”. This is not a conventional mix compilation by any stretch of the imagination, with sounds of nature, beguiling effects and spoken word episodes appearing alongside the super deep musical fare and expected filtering action. Slam Mode’s “Umri (Pacifica)” is a sensitively stringed life praising number, whilst Âme’s “Rej” is a tense keyed banger. Forceful synths and inviting vocals colour King Britt’s gorgeous revision of Soul Dharma’s “Flower”, one of only ten or so actual full-length tracks on this CD, which contains 49 aural instalments. Emotionally consuming, this cosmic voyage is a true representation of Claussell’s current musical tastes and outlook on life.

Various – The Best Of Ten Year 1996 – 2006 (Chillifunk)

Over a 10 year period, Chillifunk have released a wealth of hot House records and a side serving of intriguing nu-jazz and neo-soul. Headed by the diminutive Lofty, with more than a little help from the influential soul-soothing Dr. Bob Jones, the label has stayed true to its philosophy, releasing genuinely “Soulful Music For Funky People”. This commemorative collection, which is spread over two CDs and comes with a bonus mix from Notenshun, revisits key moments from the label’s glowing back catalogue. Standouts from the first disc include Ashley Beedle’s magically synthed refix of Nathan Haines feat. Lyric L’s “Doot Dude” and DJ Deep’s gracefully keyed “Inner Peace”. Highlights on the second CD include Terry Caller & East West Connection’s slow burning “Tomorrow In Your Eyes”, and Phil Asher’s playfully guitared remix of Notenshun’s “Amarante”. An essential piece of UK House history.
[also read my review of this compilation and don’t forget to listen to my personal best of Chillifunk this Friday on radio42 - Dirk]

Shawn Lee – Soul Visa (Grand Scheme)

The charming Shawn Lee stops playing table tennis with his breaks loving orchestra in order to pick up his guitar and deliver this proper album. Dripping with soul, indie and folky flavours, this collection of love-hate songs should win the talented and distinctively voiced fella quite a few more fans. “Some People” places thoughtful vocals over honest guitars and shining keys. “Mexican Stand Off” could be the soundtrack to a quick-firing western scene, with bendy guitars, wondering vocals and pattering drums providing the ammunition. Cute guitars and fidgeting drums work wonders on the confessional “Throwin’ Shadows”. A wonderfully unprocessed and sincere offering.

V/A – Drum & Bass Arena Classics (Ministry Of Sound)

Easily the most recognisable face in D&B, Goldie takes time out from running Metalheadz and making TV and film appearances, in order to select a wad of old and new school classics for this D&B arena birthday comp. Celebrating the ten years of informing via the information super highway, dark bass stormers rub shoulders with shining melodic numbers on this double CD set. The first disc features Adam F’s melting key laced “Circles” alongside heavier efforts such as DJ Die’s punishing “Clear Skyz”, where a hard nosed bass and tight percussion do the damage. Highlights from C D two include the deadly “Shadow Boxing” from Nasty Habits, and Alex Reece’s “Pulp Fiction”, where tense trumpeting rides a shadowy bass and slick beats. This is a compilation of real classics, from the man whose “Timeless” album gave many their first taste of speedy breakbeat and bassline led music.

Nicole Willis & The Soul Investigators – Keep Reachin’ Up (Timmion)

Mixing carefree party starters with deep introspective thinkers, this is a rather wonderful album from neo funk Queen Nicole Willis and her band of merry of Finnish players. Teeming with retro cool, this album, full of addictive songs, will have you singing along in no time. The adamant “If This Ain’t Love (Don’t Know What Is)” has Nicole demanding a display of emotion, over hopeful keys, a nonchalant bass and smilin’ horns. “Blues Downtown” offers advice, as a melancholic organ gets an angry bass and opinionated brass to keep a watchful eye. “Holdin’ On” is a firm declaration of love, where a pushy organ and bright guitars apply the pressure. Overseen by eccentric Jazz guy Jimi Tenor, who just happens to be Mr. Nicole Willis, this album packs a knockout soulful punch.

Alif Tree – French Cuisine (Compost)

Parallels are often drawn between food and music, which makes sense, as either can be delicious or disgusting. Here, Alif Tree goes a step further than most, by actually suggesting delicacies that should be sampled, whilst one tucks into his album of deeply moving jazz hop experimentalism. “Deadly Species” spreads Nina Simone’s broken-hearted vocals thinly over a bed of far away gazing keys, despairing strings and dusty bass movement. “Enough” sees complaining vocal refrain move over windswept beats, as poignant strings add to the aroma. Flavoursome piano keys do the work on “My Soul”, where apocalyptic strings and brass crashes attempt to unsteady the diner. This album is a mouth-watering platter of fine jazz-coated electronic treats.

Reel People – Second Guess (Defected)

After a few personnel changes, with the glorious “The Rain” and a couple of other newbies replacing a few original album tracks, Reel People’s 2003 debut is now ready for a bigger audience. The album has been tweaked a little in the production department and thus overall feels a little smoother than on its Papa release too, which perhaps removes a little raw appeal, but should nevertheless win the group more devotees. Happy go lucky synths, punching drums and cleansed vocals makes “The Rain” the pick of the new tracks. Vocalist Angela Johnson’s admiration can be felt on “Can’t Stop”, where open percussion and a purring bass do a great backing job. Twinkling piano keys and nimble percussion meet behind emotional vocals on the excitable “Butterflies”. As a special treat for new fans and no doubt in order to entice admirers who own the original album, Defected have included a bonus disc, which charming live interpretations and fine remixes from Phil Asher and Dennis Ferrer.

Jordan Fields – 2084 (Nice+Smooth)

2084 may be a little far into the future for most of us to look, but here Mr. Fields considers what we might hear towards the end of the 2000’s. If Jordan’s vision is correct, we’ll be dancing to intriguingly coloured and excitingly passionate House, downbeat and midbeat tunes. “A Rainbow Dub” watched crushed vocals slip in between pleased with themselves keys and quick-fingered live bass movement. Giorgio Moroder’s “The Chase” has been covered many times before, but here Jordan Fields supplies a pretty impressive update, where innocent key work and a dizzying bass triumph. A piano sings quite beautifully on the casual “Nu York Afterdark”. An appealing vision of our musical future.

V/A – Fred Everything’s House Of Om (Om)

Jumpy bumpy bleepy burpy House is the flavour of Fred Everything’s contribution to the House Of Om series. With each compiler getting the chance to deliver their take on House, this happy bumpin’ selection has a trackier stance than the recent shiny House offerings from Kaskade and the Groove Junkies. Town & Country give us “Love Could Be”, where heavy filtration obscures optimistic vocals and reformed keys. Natural Rhythm’s “Own Thing” watches a fluttering flute dance with wavering keys, over slurping fx and reliable bass drops. A high-spirited bass is impossible to control on Brett’s ‘Summer Dub’ of “Everything Is Changing” by Robbie Hardkiss. Quality animated House.

Matthias Vogt Trio – Changing Colours (INFRACom!)

The man behind the gorgeous [re:jazz] project drops an album of neo jazz entitled “Changing Colours”. A world away from his Housey Motorcitysoul output, this album does make reference to modern electronic production ideals, but in all honesty is a jazz album with a capital j! Wholesome pianos and measured bass movements colour “The Look Into Your Eyes”. “Circle of Friends” is characterised by emotion-filled piano work, intricate bass weaving and never stopping percussion. Sad keys and raindrop type cymbals get blown along on “Down The Wind”. Unfortunately, the vocal tracks on this album are let down by poor English, but there are some lovely instrumental moments here.