Hi friends!
This week’s 5 selections are:
Memoirs of Hi-Tech Jazz - Waajeed (Tresor Records, 2022)
#Deep House #Techno #Detroit
Detroit producer, DJ, and founder of the Underground Music Academy, a music school dedicated to nurturing future leaders of electronic music through education and mentorship, pays tribute to the origins of Detroit techno sound with a nod to Underground Resistance and Galaxy 2 Galaxy. Expect a subtle blend of jazzy horns, piano pads, deep house synth grooves, techno acid basslines and drums patterns – all crafted in Detroit. This record serves as “a reminder that although violence and injustice looms, it is not the only story: we are much more than what oppresses us. The album celebrates Black leisure and play; the mundane joys that persist in spite of the depleting realities of the world.”
Boogie To The Top - Idris Muhammad (Kudu, 1978)
#Jazz-Funk #Boogie #Disco
Dive deep into the infectious groove of Idris Muhammad's 1978 masterpiece, "Boogie To The Top." Coming hot on the heels of his acclaimed anthem "Could Heaven Ever Be Like This," this gem delivers a similar captivating style and composition. With impeccable production, rich instrumentation, and expansive drum fills, it's a sonic odyssey infused with gospel-tinged, full-bodied vocals. Epic Kudu release!
Flood - Herbie Hancock (CBS / Sony, 1975)
#Jazz Fusion #Jazz-Funk
One year after the recording of Dedication in Tokyo, Herbie Hancock, accompanied by members of his band the Headhunters, embarked on another recording venture. This time, they captured two live performances in Tokyo during the summer of 1975 at Shibuya Kohkaido and Nakano Sun Plaza. The result of these performances was the Japan-only release titled Flood. On the A-side, Herbie showcased his skills on the acoustic piano, reaffirming its significance to him. On the flip side, he played different instruments such as the Fender Rhodes, Clavinet, and various synthesizers, taking on a more supporting role rather than being the central focus. Best listened without multi-tasking.
Guarde Minha Voz - Luna & DJ Cri (Kaskata's Records, 1992)
#Street Soul #Hip Hop #Brazil
Kaskata’s Records was established in 1986 in Santo André, São Paulo. Collaborating with DJ Cuca, who was associated with Rede Bandeirantes, they organized an event where the winner received the opportunity to produce the first national Rap vinyl record in Brazilian history, A Ousadia do Rap (1987). Five years later, on this same label, Luna & DJ Cri released their only album, infused with a flavor of Brazilian Street Soul. The title track, "Guarde Minha Voz," is a rendition of Sandra De Sá’s epic hit, blended with the horn section from Cheryl Lynn’s "Got To Be Real." Keep bouncin’!
Matança do Porco - Som Imaginario (Odeon, 1973)
#Jazz Fusion #Psychedelic Rock #Progressive Rock
Som Imaginário is a Brazilian musical group that brought together a series of musicians from Minas Gerais as they ventured into recording studios and concert halls in Rio de Janeiro, accompanying musicians of the stature of Milton Nascimento and Elis Regina. Matança Do Porco was originally intended to be the soundtrack for Ruy Guerra's film, Os Deuses e os Mortos, and the album title refers to a tradition from Minas where the slaughter of swine in the height of winter is the centerpiece of an annual celebration. The record showcases a contrast between Tirso's keyboards and arrangements and the more rock and psychedelic elements brought in by the guitars of Toninho Horta and Tavito. Influences from styles like bossa nova and samba are present, giving the songs a distinctly unique sound.
That was all for this week. I hope you liked the selections :D
Stay groovy,
Dudier