Goldie, Rufige Kru & Submotive - Alpha Omega

Tracklist:
1. Alpha Omega
2. Goldikus (feat. Cleveland Watkiss)
3. Virgil
4. Express Your Soul
5. Sandcastles
6. Still The Same (feat. CASISDEAD)
7. Mercury
8. Siamese Ghost [Rufige Kru vs Submotive]
9. Secret Handshake
10. Spirits
11. People and Places
12. The Guardianz

Quantic - DJ-Kicks∶ Quantic

Having worked and lived in the UK, US and Colombia throughout his 20-plus-year career, Quantic is an artist whose reputation has long been forged by his unique engagement and vibrant musical exchange with local scenes and cultures from across the world. His discography of electronic releases is vast, spanning two decades and ranging from solo productions and intimate collaborations to expansive ensemble projects. Under aliases such as Quantic, the Quantic Soul Orchestra, the Limp Twins, Flowering Inferno, Ondatrópica and many more, the multi-instrumentalist, DJ, composer and producer Will Holland has released over twenty studio albums as well as countless EPs and singles.

Now, Quantic pulls from his unparalleled, wide-ranging pool of musical companions for his DJ-Kicks compilation, which fittingly radiates friends and family energy. The mix bursts with unreleased exclusives and places the art of curation at its core, giving the listeners space to go and dig more of the songs and sonics which resonate the most. Will Holland includes a breadth of new material, including new music from Quantic alongside another of his other aliases Sobredosis.

Having made records together as Transgressors, he hails JJ from The Poets of Rhythm. Similarly, the drummer of London band The Heliocentrics, Malcolm Catto, played in the Quantic Soul Orchestra in the early 2000s, and the band’s fuzzy track features early on in the mix. The ties don’t stop there though. Having mixed his album ‘Bring Backs’, Holland welcomes Mist’s jazz instrumentalism onto his Kicks, followed by a whistling dance contribution from JKriv – ft. Gabriel Oliveira – with whom he spent his early days as bassist for New York live house ensemble Tortured Soul. Quantic also brings to the mix his Colombian contemporary Frente Cumbiero, with whom he formed tropical supergroup Ondatrópica.

As a selector often booked to play at sunset, Quantic channeled this energy into the mix’s pacing too. “I love when people suddenly realise they are engulfed in the night… and this mix does put you out into some pretty high tempos of bass music, dub and Cumbia.” Beyond raising profiles, the mix encapsulates Quantic’s tempo-changing DJing style which, over the past decade, has built him a strong community of fans. In regard to the compilation’s sonic journey, which likens the voyage to boarding a boat, he says “you’re going down a river and get off in a different place… it’s also a cool way to encapsulate, stylistically, what I’ve been up to as a DJ over the last few decades, while shining a light on people I admire”.

This DJ-Kicks is the latest instalment in Quantic’s ever-evolving artistic trajectory, an accompaniment to those moments when the gloaming disappears into darkness. An homage to an unparalleled artistic path within the dance music cosmos. Will Holland’s longstanding dedication to a full range of melodic and percussive expression alongside continued musical collaboration is what makes his edition of DJ-Kicks such a rare beauty.

CD1:
1. JJ Whitefield feat. bonnie behave - The Mind Is A Palace (Mixed)
2. The Heliocentrics - Minimal Engagement (Mixed)
3. Quantic - Dialect (Mixed)
4. Alfa Mist - In My Defence (Mixed)
5. JKriv feat. Gabriel Oliveira - Pifeiro Malandro (Mixed)
6. Quantic & Sly5thAve - Twang (Mixed)
7. Frente Cumbiero - Michilero (Mixed)
8. Quantic - Theme From Selva (Remix) (Mixed)
9. Quantic - Eko Eko (DJ-Kicks) (Mixed)
10. Quantic - Motivic Retrograde (Live Version) (Mixed)
11. Eblis Alvarez & Meridian Brothers - Un Grande Nubarrón Se Alza En El Cielo (Mixed)
12. The Maghreban - Covent Garden (Mixed)
13. Anna Morgan - Throw Dat Azz (Mixed)
14. Ehua - Scintille (Mixed)
15. Turbo Sonidero - Kumbia ESSJ (Mixed)
16. Sobredosis & Quantic - No Llores Por Mí (Mixed)

CD2:
1. JJ Whitefield feat. bonnie behave - The Mind Is A Palace
2. The Heliocentrics - Minimal Engagement
3. Quantic - Dialect
4. Alfa Mist - In My Defence
5. JKriv feat. Gabriel Oliveira - Pifeiro Malandro
6. Quantic & Sly5thAve - Twang
7. Frente Cumbiero - Michilero
8. Quantic - Theme From Selva (Remix)
9. Quantic - Eko Eko (DJ-Kicks)
10. Quantic - Motivic Retrograde (Live Version)
11. Eblis Alvarez & Meridian Brothers - Un Grande Nubarrón Se Alza En El Cielo
12. The Maghreban - Covent Garden
13. Anna Morgan - Throw Dat Azz
14. Ehua - Scintille
15. Turbo Sonidero - Kumbia ESSJ
16. Sobredosis & Quantic - No Llores Por Mí

The Budos Band - VII

Two years after releasing the Frontier's Edge EP, The Budos Band arereturning with their first full-length since 2020's Long in the Tooth.Titled simply VII, the new album sees them doing what they do best: laying down hypnotic, horn-spiked grooves that menace andmesmerize in equal measure. Produced by Budos guitarist Tom Brenneck with Simon Guzmánengineering, VII features 11 tightly constructed new tracks that drawon the group's wide range of influences, sounding like only the Budoscan. It's music for getting down, for nighttime drives, and for alternateheadspaces a beguiling mix of mystery and rhythm that stands withthe formidable work they've released in their two decades ofrecording. VII was recorded in California and serves as The Budos Band's firstfull-length album on Diamond West, the independent label founded in 2023 by Tankel and Brenneck. It's also the group's first album toinclude instrumental contributions from percussionist Rich Tarrana,who previously played in the Frightnrs. All told, it succeeds in openingup some new sonic spaces while staying tethered to the intuitive, unique musicality that made them such a sensation from the jump.

Tracklist:
1. Thrice Crowned
2. Overlander
3. Night Raid
4. Lair Of 1,000 Serpents
5. Kudzu Vine
6. Sharky’s Delight
7. Curse of the Ivory Fang
8. Behind The Black Curtain
9. Escape from Ptenoda City
10. The Strigoi
11. Mean Streets

Phi-Psonics - Expanding To One

“Phi-Psonics is a spiritual exploration of being together and connecting,” says acoustic bassist Seth Ford-Young of the immersive project he initiated in East Los Angeles in 2016. For his third long-player under the Phi-Psonics banner, Ford-Young marshalled a series of live recordings at Healing Force Of The Universe records in Pasadena, sculpting fourteen tracks, largely composed in the moment with a fluctuating cast of players, which wonderfully transmit his ideals of community and inner peace.

Ford-Young says of Expanding to One..."We live in increasingly dark times and while I intend our music to be a balm to those who connect with it, I also want the context of our musical conversations to include the outer as much as our inner worlds. The music we make doesn’t exist in a vacuum and the backdrop of injustice and tragedy in our world has to be part of our music.”

Tracklist:
1. Prelude: Expansion
2. There's Still Hope
3. Healing Time
4. Many Paths
5. Sunrise
6. Love Theme From Your Life
7. We're All One
8. Nature Signs
9. Discovery
10. It Finds A Way
11. Sounds Of The Universe
12. Before The Pyramids
13. New Pyramid
14. Mysteries Of The Dark

Gerardo Frisina - In Sight Vol. 2

Firmly bound to Schema Records since the beginning (“Ad Lib”, 2001), in over twenty years of career Gerardo Frisina has released several records that have consolidated his status as a leading name in the international jazz and electronic music scene. Always unique in blending traditional elements latin jazz, funk, soul) with modern sounds, since “Moving Ahead” (2020) in particular Gerardo has introduced new ‘cosmic’ and ‘futuristic’ elements into his style, in a constant evolution that culminates today with “In Sight”: this new double work, conceived and produced in two separate volumes - the second one available from May 23rd, 2025 - further refines a sound that can be clearly recognized from the first notes of each track. “In Sight Vol. 2” is first and foremost characterised by four new compositions, more structured than in the past, with a distinct psychedelic and minimaldance vein that makes them more expansive and thoughtful; among them all, “Ya’aburnee” stands out, thanks to influences ranging from Four Tet to Trentemøller. There’s no shortage of more ‘club-oriented’ episodes too, thanks to the new arrangements of “Mindoro”, “Tarab” and “Mystical Funk”, the latter already released on 45rpm and here expanded into an ‘Extended Version’ by Fender Rhodes and electric guitar solos, perfectly closing one of Gerardo Frisina’s most complete and eclectic productions ever!

Tracklist:
1. Uzuri
2. Gigil
3. Mindoro (Alternative Version)
4. Ingenua
5. Ya'aburnee
6. Tarab (Dub Version)
7. Mystical Funk

Joy Spheres Rees - Solina

Joy Spheres Rees is the coming together of three essential innovators in contemporary music, who have fused their distinct individual sounds into a definitive collaboration for their debut album, ‘Solina’. Allysha Joy, Hidden Spheres and Finn Rees together forged a new sonic landscape which draws on vast inspirations from Balearic House to Street Soul, Alternative RnB and Jazz.

This is an album that is conceptually driven from beginning to end, as overarching melodic themes and lyrical mantras weave in and out of hard hitting grooves to create a deeply moving and meditative experience for the listener. Combining Allysha Joy’s potent lyricism, effortless musicianship, unique production & incredible vocals with Hidden Spheres' production values and Djing sensibilities, honed in over a decade's worth of music across different labels, genres, and highly revered releases, alongside the final ingredient of synths, keyboards and skilled musicality of Finn Rees, renowned for his new wave Jazz and dance music output and heavy involvement with acts from the Melbourne/Naarm scene.

Personal and poetic, ‘Solina’ speaks to both the intimate and collective desires for connection, through the differing lenses of romance, spirituality, connectivity to nature and the self. It is the culmination of each member's deeply honed skill set, with Hidden Spheres as lead producer, Finn Rees guiding the harmonic synthesis and Allysha Joy’s unmistakable vocal sound, intimately interweaving to create this rich, textural masterpiece ~ a collaborative magnus opus.

Solina is released by London's world renowned label BBE Music, with a limited edition gate fold vinyl release this is sure to be a must in the collection. 

Tracklist:
1. Caught in a Wind
2. Trust the Feeling
3. Cave Sands
4. Surrender Love
5. When Will The Day Come
6. Promised Me Love
7. Delta Spirit
8. Always Leaving
9. Surrender Love Reprise

WheelUP - Inner Light

WheelUP emits 'Inner Light', his album featuring previous triple-track single Magnetic with Sio, Juggle, and Flash feat. Abacus.

The album marks WheelUP's evolution, spiritual and sonic, breaking from his celebrated broken beat legacy to explore new frontiers in his production. The album’s title track, 'Inner Light', sits centrepiece in the album, pulling together its dynamic, high-spirit threads with global groove overtones and sax-led strut.

'Inner Light' is centred around “the guiding life force (what is called Chi energy in Eastern cultures),” WheelUP explains, emitting positive energy through thoughts, decisions and actions. He adds “The project represents a musical vibration that aligns with my own inner light.” 'Inner Light', ventures into house and disco cuts, alongside WheelUP’s signature mastery of broken beat production, showcasing his resourceful artistry and genre-spanning vision. “I think my sound is in constant evolution,” he adds.

Opening the album is 'Angel', made with label mate Steven Bamidele, a neo-soul-tinged, funk-filled disco number. “It’s a new direction of travel musically, one which I am very much enjoying.“ WheelUP adds, the perfect introduction to his branching out. Steven appears later on 'Take My Word' which carries through the funky disco feel, with bass licks and tropical percussion.

Amongst the collaborations is Sean McCabe, “A legend in house music” as WheelUP describes. The Bristol-based producer has amassed an impressive discography, delivering inspired reworks for labels like Local Talk, Z Records, Strictly Rhythm, Room Control, Tribe, Quantize and his own label Good Vibrations Music. A self-confessed lover of “vintage synthesisers – picked up from listening to classic New York boogie and ‘80s soul”, which can be heard through 'Commit To Sound'. The vintage synths and nostalgic chords are paired with a crisp modern finish and samba-esque percussion. A deep broken beat cut, the track is reminiscent of early 4hero.

Victoria Port, the vocalist in WheelUP's live band, features prominently across the album, lending her signature warmth and ethereal vocals. “Victoria brings a wholesome energy and angelic vocal delights,” WheelUP shares. “She’s such a positive, sweet-hearted person. I love making music with her just as much as performing live.”

Port’s vocals grace tracks including 'Voice Inside', 'Find A Way', and 'Duality', culminating in a high-energy finale on 'Night Vision with Abacus'. On this club banger, the trio locks into a driving house groove, with tight drum syncopation and peak-hour intensity. “'Night Vision' is probably my first fully defined house record,” says WheelUP. “I went in on the synths to channel a Kaytranada-esque, Quincy Jones, and Neptunes-style warmth.” The result is a feel-good closer that leaves the album on a euphoric high.

The project follows a recent tour across China and WheelUP’s sophomore album, ‘We Are The Magic’, along with recent remixes, including his take on Alice Russell’s Rain and fresh reworks of his tracks by Wipe The Needle, Afriquoi, and Makoto. 

Tracklist:
1. Angel
2. Voice Inside
3. Flash
4. Best You
5. Commit to Sound
6. Inner Light
7. Find a Way
8. Duality
9. Take My Word
10. Magnetic
11. Juggle
12. Tepid
13. Safe in Your Arms
14. Night Vision

The Alchemist - Mixed Fruit Series Vol. 1: Pineapple Ginger

Tracklist:
1. The Sun Shines Thru
2. Madness
3. Nine to Five
4. Two Tears in a Bucket
5. Momma Love
6. It Sells Itself
7. Testimony
8. Forever Living
9. She Sings the Blues
10. What Comes from Earth Shall Return
11. Gun Traffic
23. Falling Deeper & Deeper
13. Never Cry Much
14. Johnnie Rocket
15. A Man Without a Country

Calibre - Little Foot

This has been described as Shelflife for Calibre's 120-140 material. If you know the means, methods and magic of Dominic Martin, you'll already have this in your basket. But in case you need a little extra info or new to the abyssal vaults of Calibre, the Shelflife series is a regular collection of projects and unreleased material he's made over the years. While best known for his dnb, his house, techno and dub material is just as prolific, deep and mesmerising. As is the case here as we range from steppy, curmudgeonly techno ('Front Loader') to funky electro style breaks ('The Saki') to bumping shufflesome house ('Ukrained') to vast spacious dub ('Come With Me') Complete with many other deep and reflective shades between, this is yet another fantastic body of work from one of electronic music's most unique and revered artists.

Tracklist:
1. Blame Dub
2. Come With Me
3. Special
4. Sinner Time
5. Ukrained
6. Jump Around
7. Threadvare
8. Introbert
9. Choosing Beggar
10. Froze
11. Run Tun
12. Front Loader
13. Humbreed
14. Struggle Dub
15. Stir The Pot
16. The Saki
17. Dr Low
18. Babylon Shuffle
19. Fastest
20. Feel The Heat

VA - Subbase Sampler

Suburban Base Records Presents: Subbase Sampler – Now Available Digitally for the First Time!

Originally released in 1997 as a CD-only compilation, Subbase Sampler is now available to stream and download for the first time ever! This landmark release captures the essence of the golden era of jungle and drum & bass, showcasing a lineup of legendary artists who helped define the sound.

Featuring heavyweight tracks from Remarc, Mampi Swift, Dream Team (Bizzy B & Pugwash), Pascal, and Intalex presents The X (Mark XTC), this essential collection is a time capsule of the Suburban Base legacy—bringing classic cuts to a new generation of listeners.

Experience the iconic sounds of Subbase Sampler—now available across all major digital platforms.

Tracklist:
1. Turn Da Lites Down - Intalex Productions Present The X
2. In Da Hood [Shy FX Remix] - Remarc
3. Old Song - Mampi Swift
4. Raw Dogs [Shy FX Re-Lik] - Dream Team
5. Hardstep - D'Cruze
6. New Dawn [VIP Mix] - Intalex Productions Present The X
7. One Style - Remarc
8. X-Files - Dream Team
9. Little Touch - Mampi Swift
10. Like Dat - Pascal

Tom Caruana - Salsa Verde

Salsa Verde is the latest release from artist, Tom Caruana and, the newest instalment of Def Pressé’s series of projects made in partnership with KPM (and associated music libraries).

In 2021 Def Pressé entered into a deal with KPM whereby the deeper KPM and associated libraries can be used, exclusively, by Def Pressé. Sampled, replayed and reimagined, this vast catalogue has provided music for TV and Cinema for decades. Sampled, often illegally, by practically every Hip Hop producer ever, the library is available to select Def Pressé artists to utilise in order to create new pieces of music. This music is then fed back into the KPM/Sony AVI library for use in TV and Cinema, and the Def Pressé artist in question is then a KPM Artist in their own right. Completing the circle and hopefully providing music to inspire the new generation of beat makers/sample-based producers.

With several titles in the series, notable names like Blockhead, Damu the Fudgemunk and Stro Elliot since its inception in 2021, the Def Pressé Editions x KPM series, Crate Diggers continues into the seventh episode.

Follow Def Pressé and view other titles with: defpresse.bandcamp.com

“I still vividly remember the call to do this album, I mean I had been hunting down those greensleeve records since my early 20s. There was nearly always great samples to find on them, clean solo instruments, interesting variety in the mood and even having the descriptions of each track would help the production process. The idea that I would be able to access the whole KPM library blew my mind.”
Tom Caruana

Producer & multi-instrumentalist Tom Caruana has been producing Hip Hop for over 25 years. Incorporating both samples and instruments in his production has helped him create a signature sound which covers a wide range of moods. He has produced quirkier and more humorous material for the likes of Dr Syntax & Professor Elemental, live production for his band Son Of Sam, sample heavy material in a range of projects with MCs as well as notoriously remixing Wu-Tang Clan with The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix.

His work has been recognised in The New York Times, The Chicagoist, The Guardian and Mojo.

“I downloaded everything and started work. First filtering things I wanted to sample. Then making hundreds of beat demos. With some feedback I then created a shortlist of beats, which I then started to send out to MCs to write to.

The majority of featured MCs on the album I already have working relationships with, so it was fairly natural. It took a few years getting the album finished, added some extra live instrument elements, scratches and then figured out the sequence of tracks. The sequence kept changing, because there's such a range of material on the album it was hard to get it right.

The album covers a lot of ground including playfulness, serious and retrospective subject matters, dating and the social media algorithm. I'm incredibly proud of this album and feel it represents the range of sounds that I love about sample based hip hop.

The title is a reference to the fact that the source material were these green sleeve records, so I was thinking calling the album Green Source or Green Sauce, which then led me to make the reference less direct and call the album Salsa Verde. The album cover represents the Italian version of salsa verde (my grandfather was Maltese so I feel a connection to Italy), rather than the Mexican version with tomato and chilli.”
Tom Caruana

Salsa Verde is unashamedly Boombap. There is a difference, however. The drums we here on most of the record are played by Tom. The Piano, guitar and bass, they’re played by Tom. Caruana uses samples here, of course, but mainly for melody and topline. The foundation of this album is constructed from live instruments, played by the Producer.

Every track is a collaboration with at least one vocalist. UK and US appearances included throughout, and established artists sit beside the rising. Much like Tom, there’s little room here for bravado and hierarchy, the record humbly asks us to listen to a musician fully immersed in the simple joy of their work. Nothing particularly fancy or contrived. Just great, solid Hip Hop made with an understanding and respect that’s very apparent.

A song named, Walker Mill Road feat. yU & Richard Halligan was nominated for a Music Production Award. Tom travelled down to spend the day in the Sony Publishing offices where the KPM collection is housed. 

Tracklist:
1. Baton (feat. Phill Most Chill, Dillon & Kyza)
2. Walker Mill Road (feat. yU & Richard Halligan)
3. The Gift (feat. U George, Prince Po & Jazz T)
4. Hits Hits Hits (feat. Jehst)
5. Perfect Match (feat. Nick Maxwell, Large Professor & Tiye Pheonix)
6. Back in the Days (feat. Truck North & Richard Halligan)
7. Aisle 9 (feat. Dynas)
8. Get It (feat. Maddy & Wordsmiff FLIP)
9. Valiant (feat. Press1, Dr. Syntax & Essa)
10. Ego Juice (feat. Big Ole Lil Young Blaise (aka Blaise B.))
11. Influential (feat. Boog Brown & Supastition)

Gerald Clayton - Ones & Twos (Expanded Edition)

Pianist and composer Gerald Clayton has unveiled Ones & Twos: Expanded Edition, an expanded digital release of his 3rd Blue Note album which presents the culmination of the project. “Ones & Twos is an experiment—an idea inspired by the art of turntablism,” says Clayton. “I set out to create a record where the A side can be played simultaneously with the B side—a nod to that moment in the club when the DJ transitions from one song to the next, when you hear two separate pieces at the same time.”

The initial release of Ones & Twos consisted of the separated tracks featuring vibraphonist Joel Ross, flutist Elena Pinderhughes, trumpeter Marquis Hill, and drummer Kendrick Scott with post-production by Kassa Overall. The Expanded Edition includes two bonus tracks plus a second disc consisting of the combined overlayed tracks, revealing the end result of his experiment.

As Clayton formed his concept, he posed several questions: “Is it really possible for two separate melodies to coexist harmoniously? Does one inevitably become a counter melody to the other—a support of the more dominant melody? What does the experiment teach us about coexistence more broadly? I’m fascinated with this concept of coexistence in more than just the music. Not only the question: Can two songs coexist?… but can two people?… two cultures? One of the lessons we may gain from the music is that there will be moments of friction/tension, and there will be moments where two things fit together smoothly/peacefully.”

CD1:
1. Angels Speak
2. Cinnamon Sugar
3. Sacrifice Culture
4. How Much Love?
5. Count M
6. Glass Half Warm
7. Just Above
8. Lovingly
9. Rush
10. For Peace
11. More Always
12. Space Seas
13. Glass Half Cool
14. Endless Tubes

CD2:
1. Angels Speak / Lovingly
2. Cinnamon Sugar / Rush
3. Sacrifice Culture / For Peace
4. How Much Love? / More Always
5. Count M / Space Seas
6. Glass Half Warm / Glass Half Cool
7. Just Above / Endless Tubes

VA - Roots Rocking Zimbabwe: The Modern Sound of Harare' Townships 1975-1980 (Analog Africa No.41)

In 1972 black people rarely featured in the country's white-owned official newspapers, unless, perhaps, they were a dead "terrorist". However, Dr Footswitch's performance prompted The Rhodesia Herald to print the picture of their guitar player, Manu Kambani, on the front page along with the screaming sentence "Jimi Hendrix is dead but Manu is alive". With his ability to mimic the mesmerising antics of Jimi Hendrix Manu had impressed everybody and the editor of the paper couldn't resist printing the story. Heavy criticism from conservative whites followed, accusing the Herald of "lowering the standards." But the coverage turned Manu into an emblematic figure in Harare, one of Salisbury's oldest townships, and would influence many youngsters to form their own musical groups. Those bands began fusing Rock music, Congolese Rumba, South African Mbaqanga, soul and traditional beats into an underground music movement that would shape the future of Zimbabwean sound and challenge the colonial establishment.

All the commotion started drawing interest from South Africa's industry players and a good number of Rhodesian bands – including The Great Sounds, MD Rhythm Success, Afrique 73, The Hitch-Hikers, The Impossibles and the O.K Success – had managed to get one-off recording deals with Gallo Record on the strength of their live performances. But for some reason the South African giant didn't totally capitalise on the momentum and that vacuum was filled in 1974 by the Teal Record Company who had decided to beef up their Rhodesian subsidiary. Crispen Matema, a prolific drummer with a love for traditional music, was hired to oversee the program.

Driving across the country in his Peugeot 504, Matema scouted undiscovered talent, organised live music contests, and booked a small studio in downtown Salisbury. Within a year, he had recorded fantastic bands such The Baked Beans, Blacks Unlimited, New Tutenkhamen, The Acid Band, Echoes Ltd, Gypsy Caravan and many others. To release this flood of music, Teal launched several new imprints, including Afro Soul, Afro Pop, and Shungu.

Not to be outdone, Gallo Records finally sent the legendary sax jive producer West Nkosi to Rhodesia to scout for emerging talent. A chance recommendation led him to the Jamaica Inn Hotel, where he encountered The Green Arrows led by the carismatic Zexie Manatsa. By Christmas 1974, their single 'Chipo Chiroorwa' had sold over 25,000 copies, making them the first Rhodesian band to earn a gold disc. In November 1975 Nkosi arranged for another session for The Green Arrows at the Film Project Studios to record the fuzz-drenched 'Towering Inferno', a tribute to Paul Newman and the crystalline guitar instrumental 'No Delay', a homage to Steve McQueen.

In 1976 the liberation war is raging when Teal began immortalising Thomas Mapfumo on 1/4inch tape. Thomas had just joined forces with the Black Unlimited and The Acid Band and had started modernising traditional songs to great effect. That revolutionary style deeply rooted in Shona culture known as Chimurenga unified all generations under the banner of the liberation struggle.

Zexie Manatsa and Thomas Mapfumo massive popularity attracted the attention of the PATU (Police Anti-Terrorist Unit) who didn't like the massive crowds these artists were attracting. As a result Both Manatsa and Mapfumo were arrested and imprisoned.

Despite the arrests and the increasing scrutiny from the Rhodesian authorities, the music refused to be silenced. If anything, the repression only strengthened the resolve of Zimbabwean artists such as the enigmatic Tineyi Chikupo, who continued to compose songs that carried the hopes and struggles of the people. By the time Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, the musicians who had risked everything to give their people a voice emerged as national heroes.

The 25 songs presented in this project showcase the birth of the modern music industry in Zimbabwe and the explosion of creativity bands of the 1970s and 80s delivered is endlessly rewarding. It was a time of wild experimentation before established genres had crystallised. Rock, rumba, soul and traditional grooves all collide beautifully in this collection, which also includes never-before-released tracks by Thomas Mapfumo, Oliver Mtukudzi and many other Zimbabwean artists!

Tracklist:
1. Thomas Mapfumo & The Acid Band - Chiiko Chinotinetsa
2. New Tutenkhamen - Amai A Kwatu
3. Gypsy Caravan - Soweto Mujibha
4. Echoes Limited - Soul Scene
5. Oliver & The Black Spirits - Anoshereketa
6. The Storm - Nyaya Dzinonetsa
7. Blacks Unlimited - Hangaiwa
8. The Green Arrows - The Towering Inferno
9. New Tutenkhamen - Joburg Bound
10. Mawonera Superstars - Nyamutamba Naziwere
11. Echoes Ltd - Engelina
12. Witch - Funky Reggae
13. Baked Beans - Introduction
14. Blacks Unlimited - Yarira
15. The Phaze - Baby Please
16. Gypsy Caravan - Chistiuiti
17. Melody & Bybit - Kwakaenda Imbwa
18. The Green Arrows - No Delay
19. New Tutenkhamen - Kumalila Ngwenya
20. Harare mambos - Shanga Yangu
21. Shaft Form - Give It
22. Sweg Unity - Musikana
23. Double Shuffle - Taj Mahal
24. Dagger Rock Band - Viva Zimbabwe
25. I.T.C. Blues Limited - Porter

Tanika Charles - Reasons To Stay

Toronto rising Soul star Tanika Charles unleashes the new album “Reasons To Stay”.

Two-time Juno awards nominated and three-time Polaris Prize listed, Canadian soul star Tanika Charles unleashes the new album “Reasons To Stay” that drops worldwide on May 16 via independent soul specialist label Record Kicks.

Soul music at its best is a high form of alchemy. The transformation of pain into beauty, perseverance into celebration. With her fourth studio album, “Reasons To Stay,” Tanika Charles demonstrates a new level of mastery, mining the depths of a life spent running away from the unfulfilled promises and a broken home, to give us her most raw and intimate offering to date. By coming to terms with past trials and ensuing tribulations, Ms. Charles delivers a modern Soul classic.

Playing like a series of intimate letters to members of her family, to herself and to the listener, “Reasons To Stay” is an examination of the skeletons dangling in the family closet, and the damaged relationships at the root of a woman’s journey to acceptance and self love.

“I love this album. I love singing these songs. I love the conversations that have begun with them. It’s forced me to face the root causes of some of the insecurities I carry to this day. It’s about trauma, but it’s not a victim story. It’s making peace with the baggage I carry and finding a way to thrive in spite of it.”

Backed by the tight-knit team of Scott McCannell (Lydia Persaud, Henry Nozuka), Kyla Charter (Aysanabee) and Chino de Villa (Jessie Reyez), a guest feature from Quebec-based singer/songwriter Clerel, and vocal support from Aphrose and Claire Davis, Tanika Charles’ “Reasons To Stay” is steeped in experience, pulling threads from past eras to weave a record that feels retro futuristic and timeless.

Masterfully mixed by Monophonics’ frontman Kelly Finnigan, whose trademark analogue grit saturates Tanika’s sheen, “Reasons To Stay” also winks at the Hip-Hop heads perennially digging in crates. It captures the essence of Blues, Jazz, and Gospel-influenced R&B before spilling into Psychedelia and back, with a rawness and urgency that compels you to flip the record over again.

This is Tanika Charles, as compelling as ever, soul laid bare.

Two-time Juno Awards R&B/Soul Recording of the Year nominee and three-time Polaris Music Prize long-list nominee Tanika Charles in synonymous with Canadian Soul music. She has embraced the sound and aesthetic of the genre without gimmick, whilst pushing the boundaries of what audiences can expect. Her music revels in honesty and attitude, her live show is high energy and endearing, and she continues to organically win audiences over one album, one stream, and one encore at a time. Her previous studio albums – “Soul Run” (2017), “The Gumption” (2019), and “Papillon De Nuit” (2022) - have propelled her to international acclaim. Extensive touring across North America and Europe has further solidified her reputation, with standout performances at festivals such as Trans Musicales in France, Fusion Festival in Germany, Mostly Funk & Soul Festival and Jazz Festival in the UK, Holy Groove Festival in Switzerland, and Canarias Jazz Festival in Spain. She has also shared the stage Estelle, Mayer Hawthorne, Haitus Kayote, Lauryn Hill, Bedouin Soundclash and Macy Gray. Tanika’s meteoric rise and undeniable artistry have been widely championed by outlets such as KCRW, KEXP, BBC6 Music, Exclaim!, CBC Music, Uncut Mag, PopMatters and Albumism further solidifying her position as a global soul sensation.

Tracklist:
1. Don't Like You Anymore
2. Consistency
3. No More
4. How Long Will It Take
5. Here When You're Ready
6. Reasons To Stay
7. The Lament
8. Don't Let Go
9. Talk To Me Nice
10. Having A Time
11. Win

The Egyptian Lover, Soul Clap - Hai Karate + Remixes

Egyptian Lover, aka Greg Broussard, is the legendary producer, rapper and DJ who established the west coast hip hop sound way before G-Funk arrived. He’s known for blasting electro-funk sounds including his hit “Egypt Egypt” and legendary parties including selling out the LA Sports Arena in 1984 with the Uncle Jamm’s Army crew. His influence on modern dance music is heart felt by Soul Clap who covered his deep cut “The Alezby Inn” featuring The Genevan Heathen on vocals for their 2013 debut EFUNK: The Album. That cover was remixed by Egyptian Lover himself which led to a long term relationship between him and Soul Clap. He appeared in Soul Clap’s “In Da Kar” music video.

In 2019, Soul Clap entered the studio of Lee Curtiss with Egyptian Lover to create “Hai Karate”, an electro rap anthem that’s an ode to keeping your personal swagger up, much like the 1970s cologne of the same name tried to inspire. “I believe in you, that’s the name of this song” the Egyptian Lover exclaims, as his signature TR808 pulses and oozes 1980s electro through Soul Clap’s electronic synthesizer symphony.

For remixes of “Hai Karate”, Soul Clap conscripted their label mates, 2fox, Zeynep Erbay and FSQ, along with D.C. cutting edge crew Black Rave Culture. 2fox brings moves “Hai Karate” into UK garage territory with a tribal 2-step shuffle beat, melodic 808 kick drums, and a dark, suspenseful build up. Zeynep turns up the tempos for Egyptian Lover’s motivational sermon. Her remix is both acid washed and wickedly tribal, while it maintains many of the amazing TR808 elements from the original. FSQ teamed up with Bay area producer Spooki who they met at an Empire writing camp last year, to deliver a horn driven Nu-disco rework of “Hai Karate” powered by FSQ’s One Era syncopated live drums. Black Rave Culture shows off their hype production style on their remix, moving the track into the zone of Baltimore / Jersey club music with a futuristic and global twist; it blazes at almost 140bpm with every type of drum sound imaginable across its 3 minute span. 

Tracklist:
1. Hai Karate
2. Hai Karate (Zeynep Erbay Remix)
3. Hai Karate (2fox Remix)
4. Hai Karate (Black Rave Culture Remix)
5. Hai Karate (FSQ x Spooki Remix)

VA - Planet Mu 30

“Planet Mu 30” offers an exhilarating snapshot of Mike Paradinas' pioneering label in 2025. Planet Mu continues to carve its own unique and exciting path, proving that electronic music remains some of the most intriguing and challenging work today, always slightly outside the relentless churn of the dance music industry. It's a fleet-footed label whose artists look towards the future; yet echoes of Planet Mu’s past—ranging from jungle, dubstep and glitchy hip-hop to banging techno, electronica and breakcore—still resonate through its new generation of talent.

The compilation features fresh material from familiar names like Venetian Snares, Luke Vibert, Ital Tek and FaltyDL as well as Mike Paradinas himself as µ-Ziq, which sit alongside the 160bpm footwork artists that Planet Mu has successfully nurtured, including Jlin, Traxman, DJ Manny, RP Boo, Jana Rush and Elmoe. On the other hand, newer artists like Nondi_, Rian Treanor, Xylitol, Saint Abdullah and Eomac, DJ Girl and Speaker Music have recently contributed some of the label’s most exciting music. The compilation also teases unreleased music from fresh additions to the roster, including Nik Colk Void, Rev, BAE BAE, Ship Sket, Slikback, and James Krivchenia. It’s an exciting time to be listening to Planet Mu in 2025.

Tracklist:
1. Jlin - B12
2. Venetian Snares - Drums
3. Traxman - Ace Boogie
4. Nondi_ - Worrygirl
5. FaltyDL - Usually I'm Cautious
6. Rev - Mind Game
7. Bae Bae - Living In The Memory
8. Ship Sket - Dysentery
9. Slikback - Foli
10. µ-ziq - Imperial Crescent VIP
11. RP Boo - No Return 2
12. Dj Manny - Smooth Jungle
13. Saint Abdullah & Eomac & Lair - Victorian All-Rounder
14. Nik Colk Void - A Tough Design
15. DJ Elmoe - Battle Zone
16. Meemo Comma - Stillness Of Man
17. Herva - Kuna
18. Xylitol - Nevada
19. Ital Tek - Heat Seeker
20. Speaker Music - Sonological Hubris
21. Jana Rush - Cruisin' On Lake Shore Drive
22. DJ Girl - Bonito Applebum
23. Luke Vibert - Bullet Drop
24. James Krivchenia & Sam Wilkes - Quantum Flirt
25. Rian Treanor - Another Future Is Impossible

VA - Sean McCabe presents Dub-Vibrations Vol. 2

Sean McCabe presents his second instalment of the Dub-Vibrations series, which strips things right back and lets the groove do the talking. This time around with 17 sumptuous slices of soulful, deep goodness.

Alongside 4 brand new retakes exclusive for this compilation from Black Sonix, Rob Redford, QB Smith and Motion Severn, there’s also the perfect chance to dip back into the ever expanding but never compromising GV catalogue. With dancefloor favourites from the likes of Groove Assassin, Jovonn, Mike City, Solution, Harold Matthews Jr and David Bailey taking centre stage once more and putting the spotlight on the deeper, dubbier sound.

Tracklist:
1. Sean McCabe, Black Sonix & The Matsiko World Orphan Choir – Rise [Black Sonix Dub]
2. Missfly & David Bailey – Baby Don't Make Me Wait [Rob Redford's X-Trax Dub]
3. Sean McCabe, DJ Mixjah & Madeeha Mubarak – Still Standing Here feat. DJ Mixjah [QB's Still Strong Still Here Dub]
4. Lem Springsteen & Vocalzbyjamelle – Falling [Motion Severn Dub]
5. Sean McCabe & Ellis Aaron – Got It Bad [Sean McCabe Dub]
6. Sean McCabe & Black Sonix – Modulate
7. Motion Severn – My Way
8. Sean McCabe & Carla Prather – Here For It [Sean's Raw Vibe Dub Mix]
9. Black Sonix & Harold Matthews Jr – Deep Into My Sleep [Black Sonix Dub]
10. Missfly & David Bailey – You Don't Know [Jovonn BnD Organ Instrumental]
11. Sean McCabe, Hannah Khemoh & Black Sonix – Queen [Sean McCabe and Black Sonix Old School Dub]
12. Groove Assassin, Mike City & The Journey Men – For The Culture [Groove Assassin Vocal Dub Remix]
13. Sean McCabe – Wanna Be Good
14. Sean McCabe & Black Sonix – Danny's Jam [Sean McCabe Moody Dub]
15. DJ Fill, Syl Messi & Harold Matthews Jr – Pause feat. Syl Messi [Sean McCabe Dub Remix]
16. Solution & Tafuri – Was It Just A Game? feat. Tafuri [Motion Severn Remix]
17. Sean McCabe & Mike City – Do That [Sean's Do Dat Dub]

Surprise Chef - Superb

Australia’s world-renowned cinematic soul outfit Surprise Chef return with new album Superb. A record that represents a change in their creative approach and turns up the heat in their music. Trading in their meticulous writing and recording techniques for a looser and less planned approach with the intentions of bringing more levity to the process, and it comes through in spades. The high caliber musicianship is still front and center, but they push their sound into a more energetic and fun place on this album.

Album opener “Sleep Dreams” is the closest thing to a Surprise Chef tune one would come to expect, but then lead single “Bully Ball” comes on and you get the picture that they came to kick in the door on this one. The song’s gritty drums thunder through the speakers and get covered with percussion, keys, bass, and guitar chanks that stay in the pocket and bring the funk with them. The band pushes the boundaries of arrangement with tunes like “Body Slam” that starts off like a sweet soul track then pulls a 180, turning dark and haunting, centering on a sound they created by tucking a timpani into a bathroom two doors down from the mixing board. That same sense of experimentation comes up again on “Fare Evader” where they pepper another neck breaking rhythm track with synth notes that sound like robot sound effects from a 70s sci-fi film. The fellas turn up the tempo for the dance with tunes like “Consulate Case” and “Tag Dag”; the former pulling influence from afro-funk and the latter from jazz-funk. They take us deep into the beautiful world of Surprise Chef ballads on “Websites” and double down on their abilities to make beautiful and ethereal tracks with “Dreamer’s Disease”.

With their new album Superb, their new approach, and plans to tour the world, we are about to see Surprise Chef take the step from the underground’s most beloved to a household name and we are definitely here for it.

Tracklist:
1. Sleep Dreams
2. Bully Ball
3. Body Slam
4. Consulate Case
5. Dangerous
6. Websites
7. Fare Evader
8. Tag Dag
9. Plumb Tuckered
10. Dreamer's Disease
11. Slippery Dip

André 3000 - 7 Piano Sketches

"warning: no bars



These piano sketches are improvisations. To conjure them up, I spread my fingers out on the keys and randomly but with purpose move them around until I find something that feels good or interesting. If it feels really good I will try to repeat it. I cannot name which notes, keys or chords that I’m playing. I simply like the sound and mechanics of piano playing. Some of my favorite piano music composers and players that inspire me are Thelonious Monk, McCoy Tyner, Philip Glass, Stephen Sondheim, Joni Mitchell and Vince Guaraldi. 



These piano pieces weren’t recorded with the intention of presenting them in any formal way to the public. They were personal, at home recordings. I would sometimes text them to my family and friends.



Pardon the sound quality, they were all recorded with my iPhone sitting directly on the piano or my laptop microphone with the exception of ‘Blueberries’. (recorded in studio)



Most of these were recorded in Texas. The house my son and I were renting had no furniture at all. Only a piano, our beds and tv screens.



This collection of songs was recorded almost a decade before New Blue Sun. The original title for it was ‘The Best Worst Rap Album In History’ and here is an excerpt from the original liner notes. 



“It’s jokingly the worst rap album in history because there are no lyrics on it at all. It’s the best because it’s the free-est emotionally and best I’ve felt personally. It’s the best because it’s like a palette cleanser for me.”



Tracklist:
1. Bluffing in the Snow
2. And Then One Day You'll ...
3. When You're a Ant and You Wake Up in an Awesome Mood, About to Drive Your Son to School, Only to Discover That You Left the Lights on in the Car Last Night So Your Battery Is Drained
4. Hotel Lobby Pianos
5. Blueberry Mansions
6. Off Rhythm Laughter
7. I Spend All Day Waiting for the Night

Phill Most Chill & DJ MROK - I'm (Volume One & Volume Two)

I'm Volume One:
1. Beat Y'all
2. Tunin' You Out
3. Speed Equation
4. Name Search (Find-The-Rapper Name Game)
5. Or So They Say (I Don't Really Know)
6. Enemy
7. I'm
8. Beat Y'all (Instrumental)
9. Tunin' You Out (Instrumental)
10. Speed Equation (Instrumental)
11. Name Search (Find-The-Rapper Name Game) (Instrumental)
12. Or So They Say (I Don't Really Know) (Instrumental)
13. Enemy (Instrumental)
14. I'm (Instrumental)

I'm Volume Two:
1. And That's Sayin' a Lot
2. Tunin' You Out (Static Pressure Remix)
3. I'm (Rap Past, Present & Future Remix)
4. Distance Over Time (Speed Equation 2)
5. Name Search (Let's Play a Game Remix)
6. Enemy (Whut Goes On?! Remix)
7. Bring It On (Outro)
8. And That's Sayin' a Lot (Instrumental)
9. Tunin' You Out (Static Pressure Remix Instrumental)
10. I'm (Rap Past, Present & Future Remix Instrumental)
11. Distance Over Time (Speed Equation 2) (Instrumental)
12. Name Search (Let's Play a Game Remix Instrumental)
13. Enemy (Whut Goes On?! Remix Instrumental)
14. Bring It On (Outro) (Instrumental)

Don Glori - Paper Can't Wrap Fire

Mr Bongo proudly presents the third album by Melbourne/Naarm multi-instrumentalist, Don Glori, entitled ‘Paper Can’t Wrap Fire’. A kaleidoscopic genre-surfing odyssey that brings together the worlds of jazz, soul and funk. Feeling both contemporary and classic, familiar yet novel, it’s an assured third release that sees an artist in full flight, showcasing their creative prowess and the uniqueness of their musical voice.

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

The album’s title is an old Chinese proverb, roughly translated as 'you can’t deny the truth'. This underlying thread is woven between the songs. “A lot of them are in some way about truth-seeking, observations and the masks you put on to deal with life (hence the cover art)”, Don mentions. Take, for instance, the sensational soul single 'Brown Eyes' featuring silky lead vocals by ML Hall. A dissection of the minority experience, and the power and comfort in building those communities. Elsewhere, 'Disaster' is a satirical take on the structures serving everyone but the artists, and 'Flicker' tackles notations of truth and clarity after introspection.

To marry that meaning with the level of musicianship on these tracks is what really stands out. Don has set out his stall here as an artist who can write songs that hit home in the heart, as much as they do in the head. It’s a journey infused with a glistening jazz finesse, layered with nourishing vocal harmonies and powered by an instantly relatable human soul.

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

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

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia.

Tracklist:
1. Disaster
2. Brown Eyes
3. Flicker
4. Janet
5. Song for Ants
6. Power
7. Precious
8. Ron Song
9. Saturn's Return

Jazzanova - In Between Revisited: Jazzanova Live (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)

Celebrate 20 years of Jazzanova’s groundbreaking debut album In Between with this stunning live reinterpretation. Recorded at Little Big Beat Studios, the Jazzanova Live Band breathes fresh energy into timeless tracks like That Night, No Use, and Days To Come. This performance seamlessly blends the album’s sample-based origins with the vibrancy of live music. A must-have for fans of jazz, soul, and electronic fusion.

“In Between became a defining moment—not just for Jazzanova, but for a burgeoning sound that fused jazz, soul, electronic, and broken beat,” the collective reflects. “Two decades later, we’ve revisited this milestone with the Jazzanova Live Band, a group that has been touring the world for 15 years, captivating audiences with its dynamic blend of precision and improvisation.”

A little over twenty years ago, groundbreaking Berlin collective Jazzanova released their debut studio album, In Between. This album not only set a benchmark for what would come to be known as nu jazz but also encapsulated the ethos of Jazzanova: a collective whose music draws inspiration from the past while remaining firmly grounded in the future.

When In Between was released in 2002, it reflected the influences that had shaped the group since the mid-1990s—a seamless blend of jazz, soul, broken beat, and electronic music, brought to life by producers Stefan Leisering and Axel Reinemer, alongside DJs Alex Barck, Claas Brieler, and Jürgen von Knoblauch. Created as a studio concept, it was never intended to be performed live. That changed in 2008 with the formation of the Jazzanova Live Band, coinciding with their second studio album, Of All The Things.

Fifteen years and countless tours later, the Jazzanova Live Band has become a formidable force on the global live music scene. With their third album, The Pool (2018), they cemented their reputation for bridging the worlds of intricate studio production and live musicianship. Yet one lingering wish remained: to revisit their debut album, In Between, and reinterpret its original sample-based essence through the vibrancy of live performance.

In September 2024, this vision came to life. At the renowned Little Big Beat Studios in Liechtenstein, the Jazzanova Live Band performed In Between for the very first time in an intimate studio session in front of an audience. Captured on three analog multi-track tape machines and accompanied by a full video recording, this session reimagines the album with a fresh energy, combining samples and live instrumentation seamlessly.

The band is made up of Sebastian Borkowski on sax and flute; Stefan Ulrich on trombone and FX; Christoph Adams on keys and vocals; Jan Burkamp on drums; Christoph Bernewitz on guitar; Florian Menzel on trumpet; and Paul Kleber on bass, who also contributed live bass to the original 2002 recordings. Vocal performances were equally stellar, with Nigerian-born future soul artist Wayne Snow lending his signature sound to the reimagined club anthem That Night; seasoned vocalist Heen Maartens, AKA HEEN, showcasing his skills as a rapper on the percussive, horn-heavy The One-Tet; and longtime Jazzanova collaborator and erstwhile Sonar Kollektiv recording artist, Clara Hill, who returns to the classic No Use, delivering another lush, classy performance.

Elsewhere, the spine tingling introduction of L.O.V.E. and You & I illustrates from the get-go the perfectly blended combination of live musicianship and played samples that run throughout the album, from the staccato bass and drum workout of Mwela, Mwela (Here I Am) to the more laid back, trumpet led beauty of Place In Between / Cyclic and the assured and optimistic Another New Day. More dance floor inspired moments also translate perfectly into the live arena with the dynamic, club friendly Days To Come and a more organic version of the original album highlight, Dance The Dance, rounding off this ground-breaking recording.

In Between Revisited: Jazzanova Live celebrates a milestone as the collective breathes fresh life into their legacy, proving that great music transcends time and evolves with every listen.

Tracklist:
1. L.O.V.E. and You & I (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
2. No Use (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
3. The One-Tet / Fade Out (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
4. Mwela, Mwela (Here I Am) (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
5. Place in Between / Cyclic (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
6. Another New Day (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
7. Days to Come (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
8. That Night (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)
9. Dance the Dance (Little Big Beat Studio Live Session)

Billy Woods - GOLLIWOG

GOLLIWOG is billy woods’ first album in two years, preceded by 2023’s Maps, his second collaboration with producer Kenny Segal. That nimble travelogue has little in common with woods’ newest work, despite the fact that Segal shows up a couple times in the credits. GOLLIWOG is a haunting collection that weaves horror, humor, surrealism and Afropessimism into a cinematic tapestry, aided and abetted by a murderer’s row of producers. African zombies, time traveling trap cars, malevolent ragdolls and a dying Frantz Fanon are just a few of the revelers in woods’ danse macabre.

GOLLIWOG features production from The Alchemist, Kenny Segal, EL-P, Conductor Williams, Preservation, Messiah Musik, Sadhugold, Ant (Atmosphere), Shabaka Hutchings, Steel Tipped Dove, DJ Haram, Willie Green, Jeff Markey, Saint Abdullah, and LA-based experimental jazz trio Human Error Club. Meanwhile, woods is joined on the mic by Backwoodz labelmates ELUCID and Cavalier, along with rappers Bruiser Wolf, Despot, Al.Divino, and singer-songwriter Yolanda Watson.

GOLLIWOG is another triumph in the woods oeuvre, as layered and compelling as anything he has ever done. A black carnival pitched in a muddy field overnight, empty rides whirring and clattering in the dark.

Tracklist:
1. Jumpscare (feat. Steel Tipped Dove)
2. STAR87 (feat. Conductor Williams)
3. Misery (feat. Kenny Segal)
4. BLK XMAS (feat. Bruiser Wolf & Sadhugold)
5. Waterproof Mascara (feat. Preservation)
6. Counterclockwise (feat. The Alchemist)
7. Corinthians (feat. Despot & El-P)
8. Pitchforks & Halos (feat. Kenny Segal)
9. All These Worlds Are Yours (feat. E L U C I D, DJ Haram, & Shabaka Hutchings)
10. Maquiladoras (feat. Al.Divino & Saint Abdullah)
11. A Doll Fulla Pins (feat. Yolanda Watson, Jeff Markey, & Messiah Musik)
12. Golgotha (feat. Messiah Musik)
13. Cold Sweat (feat. Ant)
14. BLK ZMBY (feat. Steel Tipped Dove)
15. Make No Mistake (feat. Messiah Musik)
16. Born Alone (feat. Kenny Segal)
17. Lead Paint Test (feat. E L U C I D, Cavalier, & Willie Green)
18. Dislocated (feat. E L U C I D & HUMAN ERROR CLUB)

Flevans - The Foundation

'The Foundation' is the 10th studio album from south-coast producer Flevans. Starting life as a beat tape, it soon became an obvious contender for a full album release - The title comes from the album being the first major release on his own Nearby Bear Recordings imprint, setting the foundations for the next chapter of his already well established music career. 'The Foundation' covers all of the bases you'd expect from a Flevans release - from blissful downtempo, to party funk and disco, it's all there. Dive in and enjoy!

Tracklist:
1. What's Your Name?
2. Go Dancing
3. The Only Time
4. Glory or Pain
5. Wrap Up
6. Untrue
7. Forever
8. Your Star Will Shine
9. Feel so Good
10. The Fool
11. The Foundation
12. Lookin' at You
13. Static