Search results for 'fred locks'

One day early in the global lockdown, Frédéric Blais scribbled four words on a Post-It note and pinned it up in his studio. When he headed to a studio in the mountains north of Montreal to start work on his fifth album as Fred Everything, those words went with him. They would not only provide inspiration during two weeks of isolated music-making, but ultimately provide the subsequent album with its title: Love, Care, Kindness and Hope. Learn More

​"Chakalaka Jazz" is a compelling compilation curated by DJ and collector Fred Spider, in collaboration with Heavenly Sweetness. This 2xLP collection delves into the rich tapestry of South African jazz and jazz-funk, spanning tracks from 1969 to 2003. ​ The compilation's title, "Chakalaka Jazz," draws inspiration from a traditional South African relish made from tomatoes, onions, and chili. This relish is known for its spicy and diverse flavors, mirroring the eclectic and hybrid nature of the tracks selected. Featured artists include Victor Ntoni & Clarence Wilson, Gibson Kente, The Soweto Boys, The Drive, The Cliffs featuring Winston Ngozi, The Four Sounds, Jazz Ministers, The Tailfeathers, Clarke Cassidy, Zim Ngqawana, and Johnny Dyani. These artists contribute to a compilation that not only showcases the diversity of South African jazz but also highlights its evolution over three decades. ​ JAZZ CHILL. The 2xLP is presented in a gatefold sleeve, with artwork by Romy Brauteseth and design by Laurent Belando. The compilation has received acclaim for its insightful selection, capturing the essence of South African jazz's golden years. Simon Ndlovu from All About Jazz/SA commented, "This is a super compilation which captures the essence of our South African jazz. Learn More

This long-lost De La Soul gem, originally a promo-only release from 1994, finally sees the light of day. Featuring four tracks from their acclaimed Buhloone Mindstate album, this 12" also boasts two exclusive cuts showcasing De La Soul's collaborative spirit. 'sh.Fe.Mc's' sees them trading verses with fellow Native Tongues posse members A Tribe Called Quest, while 'Stix & Stonz' unites them with hip-hop pioneers Grandmaster Caz, Tito of the Fearless Four and Prince Whipper Whip. The real magic of this release lies in its ability to transport listeners back to the golden age of alternative hip-hop, where Tracks like 'iN tHe WoOds' and 'i aM I bE' showcase the group's signature blend of jazz-infused beats, playful lyricism and socially conscious themes. The presence of Maceo Parker, Fred Wesley and Pee Wee Ellis adds a layer of soulful funk, further enriching the sonic tapestry. This limited edition release offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in De La Soul's career, where their adventurous spirit and collaborative nature were in full effect. Learn More

London-based producer Prayer is set to release a 3-track EP titled "Io" on Rua Sound's SPHERES series. Following previous releases on esteemed imprints such as Hooversound, Black Acre, and Grade 10, Prayer is known for creating atmospheric jungle with an emotive energy that can range from poignant to ecstatic. Learn More

The American female vocal trio First Choice released their rendition of 'Love and Happiness' in 1973. The track is a cover of Al Green's original released just a year earlier in 1972, but First Choice's version was perhaps helped along the way by a peak case of nominative determinism: for us, theirs is the first choice. Featured on their debut album, Armed and Extremely Dangerous, it stood out on the Philly soul girl gang's record as one of the records most propitious to sampling by house and techno musicians, such as Todd Terry and Jungle Brothers. But this time, the legacy of this preceptive soulful-house interplay is honoured by a newly reissued remix by the mysterious but titanic Chicago producer Ron Hardy, whose inclusion on the record is the real star here. Hardy's signature reel-to-reel fuzzes and presence-bled hues effect recollections of a pre-DAW production setup, and the resonances of dub (woodblocks, four-tone hooks, burly basslines) nest the original Al Green vocal nicely. Learn More