{"title":"Barely Breaking Even","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBBE Music, formerly known as BBE Records, is a renowned music label that has been at the forefront of the industry for years. With a rich history and an impressive roster of artists, BBE Music continues to push boundaries and redefine genres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFounded in [year], BBE Music has consistently delivered groundbreaking music across various genres including soul, jazz, funk, hip-hop, and electronic. The label's commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a loyal fan base worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith an extensive catalog of releases from both established and emerging artists, BBE Music offers something for every music lover. Whether you're searching for timeless classics or cutting-edge sounds, this label is sure to have something that will captivate your ears.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"no-traffic","title":"No Traffic","description":"\u003cp\u003eEnter the realm of Illa J, the musical force shaking the foundations of the industry. His latest offering, 'No Traffic', is a testament to his boundless talent and versatility, showcasing his singing, production and rapping abilities on 19 tracks written and produced entirely by Illa J himself. This album marks his debut on BBE Music and a new chapter in his musical journey.  Meet Illa J: a musical prodigy raised in a family of talented musicians. With a jazz bassist father and a gifted singer mother, it's no surprise that Illa J was destined for greatness. He's best known as the younger brother of hip-hop legend J Dilla and has made a name for himself as a former member of Detroit's iconic hip-hop group, Slum Village. With a lifetime of exposure to quality music and top-tier musicians, Illa J is a force to be reckoned with.  Created amidst the chaos of the pandemic, Illa J's 'No Traffic' serves as a beacon of hope, a roadmap for creatives seeking their path. He enlists the help of Detroit legends Amp Fiddler, Frank n Dank, British soul sensation Harleighblu, and introduces the rising stars of Detroit, Serious, Joz B, Maine Soul, and more, all matching Illa J's energy and passion on the tracks.  The focus track of the album, \"Star Struck\", is a prime example of Illa J's signature style. The astral pentatonic soundscape and precise drum programming transport you to new heights, while Illa J's beats, melodies, and bars will leave you in awe.  'No Traffic' is a musical journey that takes you to a place where Illa J's playful and versatile sound reigns supreme. The album is expertly mastered by Grammy-award nominated The Carvery Studio and is a refreshing experience of a true artist reveling in their artistry. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to delve into Illa J's musical realm.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50393232474443,"sku":"2046652","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_982b1f89_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726414240"},{"product_id":"locus-2","title":"Locus","description":"\u003cp\u003eJapan has produced some exceptionally talented jazz drummers and among them is Tatsuya Nakamura, who joins the BBE Music J Jazz Masterclass Series with his album 'Locus' from 1984, a session covering several bases, from heavy percussive samba to meditative avant-ambient. This is the album's first ever reissue, although a track form 'Locus', '1?4 Samba', was included on J Jazz vol. 3.   Nakamura began his drumming career as a teenager, inspired after seeing the documentary film \"Jazz on A Summer's Day\" and listening to his idols Art Blakey and Miles Davis. By his early twenties, Nakamura was working with such luminaries as free jazz guitarist Masayuki Takayanagi, pianist Masaru Imada and band leader \u0026amp; composer Mitsuaki Kanno. In the mid-70s, like several other Japanese jazz players, Nakamura decided to make the move to New York where he studied drumming with Roy Haynes, and performed with members of the AACM and players from the loft and free jazz scenes including Richard Davis, George Adams, John Hicks, and Pharaoh Sanders. Returning to Japan, Nakamura continued playing as leader of his Japanese band The Jazz Fellows and in 1979, he went into the studio as leader for the classic \"Where Is The Quarter\" session featuring Masaru Imada, Hideto Kanai and Kenji Mori. This session includes the original percussion heavy version of '1?4 Samba' and was followed by a period back in NYC during which he recorded the funky\/free session 'Rip Off' in 1980. 1984 saw Nakamura working as leader of a heavy-duty fusion septet and in February of that year he led them in a performance at Audio Technica Hall, which was recorded for the live album 'Locus' on Sea Horse Records, the label's one and only release.   On 'Locus', Nakamura is joined by a stellar line-up. On trumpet is Shinobu Fujimoto and he's joined by seasoned bass player Hideto Kanai (1931 -2011) who began playing in the mid-1950s, appearing on King Recs All-Star Jazz Series before going on to be a regular fixture on the legendary Three Blind Mice (TBM) label, backing many of its leading artists. He even released his own album on TBM, 'Ode to Birds' in 1975. On guitar is Kazumasa Akiyama. Born in Tokyo in 1955, he taught himself guitar at 10 years old and was influenced initially by The Beatles and Ray Charles, and later Jimi Hendrix, Cream, Chicago Blues, and jazz. When he was a student, he got a chance to appear on Sadao Watanabe's radio program 'My Dear Life', which led him to join the Isao Suzuki Group and Mikio Masuda Group. Akiyama released his first leader album 'Dig My Style' in 1978 and is still an active musician. On keys is the incredible Jun Fukamachi (1946-2010). Born in Harajuku, Tokyo, Fukamachi started playing the piano at the age of three, showing an extraordinary talent, recognised as a child prodigy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50393521553739,"sku":"2048620","price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50393521357131,"sku":"2048617","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/a3175720364_10_57d9e2f7_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726419818"},{"product_id":"the-ones-2","title":"The Ones","description":"\u003cp\u003eFor 'The Ones', Chicago House and Disco producer, Rahaan has pulled together a plethora of musicians and vocalists to create a smokestack of soul fuelled excellence on this ten track album. From the amazing vocals courtesy of Marcus J. Austin and Nancy Clayton on the opener, 'We Are The Ones', through the amazing instrumental City Rain Supreme and the vocals of Spike Rebel on the anthemic Forever, this album absolutely excels. The promise made on the original three track EP released on BBE Music in the Summer of 2023 is well and truly delivered on.  Working with live musicians throughout the recording process has added layers of finesse and genuinely unfeigned authenticity in the overall sound of this album. Carnell Newbill's basslines and keys, Todd Swope's Afrobeat inspired guitar licks and the horns of Ohio Players legend Kenny Anderson all blend organically with the aforementioned vocalists to create an album of sublime music befitting the best traditions of the Chicago House canon.  Rahaan Young is a DJ and producer who has been DJing since playing at parties in his native Chicago the 1980s. As a DJ he's enjoyed residencies at both The Spot and Buddha Lounge as well as entertaining and moving dance floors around the globe with DJ sets that show his music knowledge and exquisite taste.  The Ones is mastered at the Grammy nominated Carvery Studios and will be released on vinyl and digital on BBE Music, adding to the catalogue of innovative and highly pertinent releases from artists, musicians and producers from across the world.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LPx2","offer_id":50426506117451,"sku":"2214132","price":36.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_2cb0b017_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726811514"},{"product_id":"if-music-presents-you-need-this-if-music-is-20-compiled-by-jean-claude","title":"If Music Presents: You Need This: If Music Is 20 - Compiled by Jean-Claude","description":"\u003cp\u003eCelebrating two decades of IF Music's curation of Black music through its record shop, a thriving website, album reissues and compilations in collaboration with BBE Music, parties and radio shows, \"IF Music Presents You Need This: 20 years\" is a 9 track, double vinyl LP beautifully put together by Jean-Claude.  Coming, as it does, as the 9th  release in the \"You Need This\" series of compilations curated by Jean-Claude, this album features music that ranges from 1980 (Christine Schaller's spectacular \"Fidji\") to exclusive tracks from the likes of Emanative \u0026amp; Liz Elensky ('Fall Into Me') and Tenderlonious ('Dennison Point') which both bring us up to the present day.  It is Jean-Claude's remarkable ear for music that, as with all the previous \"You Need This\" releases, creates a wonderfully coherent journey through the decades across the four sides of this masterpiece of a compilation album.  As mentioned earlier \"You Need This: 20 Years\" will be released as a double LP pressed on 180 gramme heavy vinyl,  cut at 45rpm and on digital. Whether this starts, adds or completes your collection of Jean-Claude's \"You Need This\" series of compilations, \"20 Years\" is a must-have and indeed, you really do need this!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50445815644491,"sku":"2045923","price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_dc6c4e70_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727046689"},{"product_id":"son-of-africa","title":"Son of Africa","description":"\u003cp\u003eBBE Music are proud to reissue one of the most elusive and sought-after Afro-Funk LPs of all time: SON OF AFRICA, by REMI KABAKA.  Now a proud 85 years of age and enjoying retirement in America, Remi was the cornerstone of British West African music in the 50s, 60s and 70s, along with Ginger Oloronso Johnson, Fela Kuti and others. But while Ginger played mambo and cha cha cha in Soho clubland and Fela released his early 'highlife jazz' records on the Melodisc label, Remi Kabaka was fully ensconced in the UK Rock world, playing sessions and live shows with The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, Ginger Baker, Steve Winwood and countless others.  As the 60s became the 70s, Kabaka developed yet another string to his bow: the development of a UK based West African Funk scene, that found its genesis in the legendary Osibisa, but with an influence and an inspiration that spilled over into every contemporary Brit Funk band from Cymande and the Equals to The Average White Band, Matata and beyond.   SON OF AFRICA was originally released by Chris Blackwell's Island records in 1976, to little acclaim, very few reviews, and with almost no promotion. African music was a hard sell when the 70s Black British record market wanted reggae first and foremost, and with Bob Marley on the books, Island understandably had other priorities at the time. The record disappeared. Until it reappeared in the early 2000s, as a ?700-plus collectors' item.  It's barely 30 minutes long. But every single minute is drenched with sinuous, spare funk: no spacey psych rock, no disco, no boogie, no over-the-top production: just 90-110 BPM grooves that go straight to the body.  So: whether you're a turntablist, a hip hop sampler, or just an honest-to-goodness African Funk lover, catch this limited reissue (with full, updated liner notes) while you can. There won't be another chance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50465226686795,"sku":"2016821","price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50465227014475,"sku":"2016825","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_eb92a7ea_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727283422"},{"product_id":"inside-ourselves-2","title":"Inside Ourselves","description":"\u003cp\u003eAs part of its continuing exploration of Detroit's Strata label with DJ Amir's 180 Proof Records, BBE Music reissues the 1974 rare jazz classic \u003ci\u003eInside Ourselves\u003c\/i\u003e by Sphere.   Recorded live on June 28th, 1970 at the Detroit Institute of Arts, \u003ci\u003eInside Ourselves\u003c\/i\u003e features John Dana on bass, Jimmy Peluso on Drums, Keith Vreeland on, Electric Piano, Eddie Nuccilli on Trumpet and Fl?gelhorn, plus bandleader Larry Nozero on tenor and soprano Saxophone. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe album comprises seven captivating original compositions, written by Vreeland, Nuccilli and Nozero himself.   Perhaps Larry Nozero's single most-recognisable contribution to popular music is the soprano sax solo on Marvin Gaye's seminal, 'What's Going On', the title track and tone-setter for one of soul music's most successful, not to mention conceptual, recordings.    Like so many talented reedmen before him, Nozero received instruction from Detroit's Teal School of Music, creating common ground with Yusef Lateef, Joe Henderson, and Benny Maupin. Although Nozero flirted with the Strata groundlings briefly in 1964 as a member of Charles Moore's Detroit Contemporary 5, he was soon drafted into the military.    A mixed blessing, Nozero took full advantage of the opportunities within the Army Band, which led to several high-profile jobs upon his return to Detroit. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite lengthy engagements with Henry Mancini, Sergio Mendes, and studio work with everyone from Holland-Dozier-Holland to Berry Gordy, Nozero still relished musical freedom of expression, which made him right at home on the Strata roster.    While little is known about Sphere as a standalone group aside from its contributors and producer Bud Spangler, \u003ci\u003eInside Ourselves \u003c\/i\u003erepresents the level of quality jazz expected from the Strata imprint.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50466424422731,"sku":"2021671","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_531f8f8c_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727312815"},{"product_id":"will-and-james-ragar","title":"Will And James Ragar","description":"\u003cp\u003eA wonderful album full of Balearic vibes, funky riffs and mellow moments, originally released in 1980. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e BBE Music are excited to announce this highly sought after album titled \u003ci\u003eWill \u0026amp; James Ragar\u003c\/i\u003e which will be reissued on vinyl and CD as well as across digital platforms. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e James and Will Ragar hail from Louisiana, where their early education into music began. At a young age they moved to New Orleans - where they heard live Jazz for the first time. This inspiration is demonstrated through their free approach to this album.  Their natural evolution through the Louisiana club scene saw them develop and hone their talents of adding that southern swag to covers they did, almost making them their own.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eWill \u0026amp; James Raga\u003c\/i\u003er is a blend of acoustic and electric tones, carefully and cohesively put together by the brothers. \"As The Day Grows Tired\" is the first song on the album and one of the first songs James wrote. The theme for \"She's Laughter\" is about returning home to someone you love and features a heavy guitar solo. \"My Shining Sun\" has an unusual jazz form and is an ode to the joy of playing music. \"Don't Wish\" was inspired by a jazz chord progression that was a favourite, James played the solo on a pearwood soprano recorder. Gary Roberts played percussion on the session and also played the flute on \"Just A Wanderer\".\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50469494882635,"sku":"2020619","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50469495374155,"sku":"2020620","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/0196626188458_b490bcaf_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727361641"},{"product_id":"once-again-we-are-the-children-of-the-sun-compiled-by-paul-hillery","title":"Once Again We Are The Children Of The Sun - Compiled by Paul Hillery","description":"\u003cp\u003eGather together beneath the sun as we journey through the rhythmic sands of time, Paul\nHillery, an esteemed collector and vinyl hunter, presents his follow-up to the highly\nacclaimed \u003ci\u003eWe Are The\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eChildren Of The Sun\u003c\/i\u003e. Andrew Male of Mojo Magazine calls the\nalbum \"One of the most emotionally uplifting and hazily beautiful compilations of recent\nyears.\"\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eOnce Again We Are The Children Of The Sun\u003c\/i\u003e is a shimmering collection of rare finds,\nreminding us that we have more to connect us than to divide us. The music encompasses a\nbroad range of sounds, starting in Cajun country with Will and James Ragar, their handmade\nacoustic guitars allowing for soaring vocals. Along with many of the tracks featured on this\ncompilation, \u003ci\u003eAs the Day Grows\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eTired\u003c\/i\u003e is reissued on vinyl for the first time.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExperience the previously unreleased cover of \"Milk and Honey\" featuring Kat Barnard and\nGreg Foat, a versatile mainstay of the UK jazz scene. Discover the first-ever vinyl release of\n\"Kayenta Crossing\" by William Eaton Ensemble, capturing the austere presence of\nMonument Valley. Immerse yourself in Wendy Grace's jazz-folk masterpiece \"More Than\nHope\" and the acoustic ambience of \"Golden Hour\" by Aria Rostami.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePaul Hillery and BBE present a compilation of styles and genres, fusing together to make\nprivate press wants accessible as a springboard for further listening pleasures. \u003ci\u003eOnce Again\nWe Are the\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003eChildren of the Sun\u003c\/i\u003e is an eclectic selection mixing styles, year and tempo,\npainstakingly gathered and presented with a great deal of love.\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50470606471499,"sku":"2011126","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50470609813835,"sku":"2011135","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_08ea9dbe_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727378917"},{"product_id":"the-jazz-room-vol-2-compiled-by-paul-murphy","title":"The Jazz Room Vol. 2 - Compiled by Paul Murphy","description":"\u003cp\u003eWelcome to the 2nd Volume of the Jazz Room series compiled by DJ legend and label owner Paul Murphy.  Following on from the success of the original Jazz Room compilation released by BBE in 2019 Paul has compiled a double vinyl volume of Jazz dance tracks that range from heavy funk of New Orleans to Latin grooves and contemporary jazz from the new generation.  Tracks written by Dizzy Gillespie sit with those from the musical pens of Raul Monsalve and Fela Kuti.  Paul's own label, Jazz Room Records, specialises in re-issues and it is his expertise in finding the rare and the obscure and matching with the new and the fresh that creates the joy filled atmosphere on this compilation.    This album really is as much for the party people as it it for the headz and links the audiences from his legendary gigs in the 1970s and 80s at the Electric Ballroom, 100 Club and The Blue Note to those at his current appearances at Spiritland, Shiftless Shuffle and Brilliant Corners.  Indeed, among the rarities and the global rhythms in this collection are some excellent cover versions of tracks from the aforementioned Fela Kuti, The Stranglers, Azymuth and The Human League (yes, The Human League).  What Paul Murphy has done here is compile a selection of tracks that could easily be a DJ club set, a soundtrack to a party, a Summer festival highlight or a night of music appreciation with a favourite tipple and partner.  The Jazz Room Volume 2 is a must have compilation and, along with Volume 1, is a masterpiece of music curation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50477994115403,"sku":"2016869","price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_5928a85a_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727479565"},{"product_id":"live-at-lovely","title":"Live At Lovely","description":"\u003cp\u003eJapanese master drummer Takeo Moriyama returns to BBE Music's J Jazz Masterclass Series in a majestic live set showcasing his exemplary musicianship and stature as one of the leading names in Japanese modern jazz. Recorded in December 1990 at the jazz club Lovely in Nagoya, this set sees Moriyama's quartet deliver an exemplary session of the finest modal, post-bop and spiritual jazz.  Moriyama is backed by long-time colleague Fumio Itabashi on piano and the group perform a stunning rendition of Itabashi's classic 'Watarase', revisiting the track they first recorded on Moriyama's 1981 'Smile' album. Demonstrating his range as a composer, Itabashi penned four of the five tracks on this album. 'Live at Lovely' also features regular bassist Hideaki Mochizuki and tenor saxophonist Toshihiko Inoue, who also feature on Moriyama's 'East Plants' album, previously reissued in the J Jazz Masterclass Series.  The quartet's communication and interplay are revelatory, each player listening closely and finding their own space within the richly textured music. The album opens with 'Sunrise', a blast of blistering unrestrained post-bop, with Toshihiko Inoue's strident horn motif and Itabashi's commanding piano underpinned by Hideaki Mochizuki's thunderous bass and Moriyama's relentlessly authoritative and expressive drumming.   On 'Exchange', another Itabashi composition, the quartet up the energy level even further, pushing to the edge of free jazz but maintaining enough structure to keep it together as they race headlong into a 20 minute epic that leaves the listener as out of breath as the band. Every track on 'Live at Lovely' stands by themselves, but taken together, it's an extraordinary listening experience that demonstrates the calibre of the Japanese jazz players who emerged in the 1970s and who, like Moriyama and Itabashi, continue to perform today.   This special double vinyl edition is mastered by the Grammy-nominated Carvery and is the first ever reissue since the album's original Japan only CD release in 1991 and comes with a translation of the original notes plus a new sleeve note by Tony Higgins.  J Jazz Masterclass Series is curated by Tony Higgins and Mike Peden for BBE Music.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50478733885771,"sku":"2023825","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_893d3263_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727490086"},{"product_id":"yebo-rare-mzansi-party-beats-from-apartheids-dying-years-compiled-by-john-armstrong","title":"Yebo! Rare Mzansi Party Beats from Apartheid's Dying Years compiled by John Armstrong","description":"\u003cp\u003e1.  THE APARTHEID BOYCOTT  In the 80s, the world - rightly - stepped up its boycott against South Africa's apartheid government.  But this had unexpected and sometimes adverse consequences for South Africa's music professionals and consumers.  Musicians still needed to work live shows both at home and abroad, and to make and sell records.  The youth still aspired to clubbing and partying at the weekend after hard, poorly paid jobs under the thumb of an oppressive government. Music was their sanctuary: specifically, African- American inspired soul, jazz, boogie, disco and funk. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e 2. UNIQUE DIVERSITY  Producing musical excellence was nothing new for South Africa, even in the 80s: both traditional and jazz music of various genres had been performed, showcased and recorded for decades with the assistance of some of the most skilled and ingenious sound-engineers and producers in the world, the jazz players rivalling their American peers in many cases. But what makes Mzansi 80s popular music unique is that it had to - and for the most part, did- appeal to a multi-ethnic, multilingual population almost like no other in the world, for its geographical size.   There may have been many tribal and political differences between Zulu, Sotho, Xhosa, Tsonga and others day-to-day, but when it came to the weekend, those differences often melted away for a while on the dancefloor. Paul Ndlovu had kwaZulu fans as well as Shangaan followers; Black Moses and the Soul Brothers had followers and fans with everyone..and so on.  And everyone- detractors and lovers alike- were content to settle on the monicker 'Bubblegum' as a general description. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e 3. MZANSI TOOK DISCO- AND SLOWED IT DOWN A BIT..  ..exactly as 90s and early 2000s South African DJs and mixers took House- and slowed it down a bit to develop Kwaito., Gqom and - later - Amapiano. The Roland TR-707 sampler came along in 1985- at just the right time for the flowering of Mzansi disco and boogie. And in the artful  hands of  arrangers, engineers and producers such as Peter \"Hitman' Moticoe, whose work figures on several of the tracks here, it became something unique to South Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black CD","offer_id":50481611833675,"sku":"2024750","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50481612489035,"sku":"2024752","price":42.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_85403420_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727542053"},{"product_id":"we-are-the-ones-fire-forever","title":"We Are The Ones \/ Fire \/ Forever","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn the debut EP 'We Are The Ones\/Fire\/Forever', Chicago DJ legend Rahaan collaborates with an incredibly talented group of musicians, including Marcus J. Austin on lead vocals, Nancy Clayton on backing vocals, Carnell C. Newbill (also known as Spike Rebel) on keyboards and backing vocals, Todd Swope on guitar, and Lou Terry on bass.  Together, they create a 3-track EP that perfectly showcases Rahaan's production skills and the musical talents of the entire group. Rahaan's experience and expertise as a DJ and producer are evident in each track, with grooves that are sure to keep the dancefloor moving.  The title track, 'We Are The Ones', is a story of adventure and return, with a twist. Created by Rahaan and The Ones while under the influence, the track was lost for years as it was unnamed on his computer. However, Rahaan's determination to find it paid off, and with the help of Ohio Players' Kenny Anderson on the horns, he built upon the elusive skeleton track.  With Marcus J. Austin on lead vocals and Nancy Clayton on backing vocals, 'We Are The Ones' delivers a soulful, 4-to-the-floor anthem that showcases the vocal talents of the group. And in 'Fire', Todd Swope's guitar skills shine through, creating an epic production that draws spiritual inspiration from traditional AfroBeat rhythms.  It's worth noting that The Ones features some truly talented musicians, including Carnell C. Newbill (Spike Rebel) on keyboards and backing vocals. Spike Rebel is a well-known producer and musician in his own right.  With his soulful vocals taking center stage, Carnell Newbill leads the charge on \"Forever,\" he also superbly delivers on bass, keys, percussion, and guitar. Expertly mixed by Rahaan, this track is sure to become a dance floor anthem.  In summary, 'The Ones' EP is an impressive collaboration between some of the most talented musicians in the Chicago underground House and Disco scene. With Rahaan at the helm, this project is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves to dance.  Mastered with Love by the Grammy nominated The Carvery Studios, this is one for any worthwhile DJ's record bag.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"12\"","offer_id":50482376474955,"sku":"2027752","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_2efa8ca9_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727551531"},{"product_id":"face-at-my-window-kyoto-jazz-massive-remixes-beyond-the-dream-musclecars-reimaginations","title":"Face At My Window (Kyoto Jazz Massive Remixes) \/ Beyond the Dream (Musclecars' Reimaginations)","description":"\u003cp\u003eTaken from the album 'Strata Records - The Sound of Detroit - Reimagined by Jazzanova', BBE Music, DJ Amir and 180 Proof records present the 3rd single from this monumental project.  This release features remixes by Japanese Club Jazz pioneers Kyoto Jazz Massive, and Genre Blending New Yorkers, musclecars.   Kyoto Jazz Massive were enlisted to remix the Jazzanova reimagining of Sam Sanders's iconic song Face at my Window. Their mix adds an intimate Jazz Club feel to vocalist Sean Haefeli's recording, which highlights the dynamics of Sean's voice. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe subtle tempo increase maintains the feel of the original and adds a punch to the brass section, making the track an entirely new experience.  musclecars  add that traditional New York \/ Chicago House vibe to Jazzanova's reimagining of Kenny Cox's 'Beyond the dream', and the result is a skippy afro\/latin dancefloor filler which can go on forever. musclecars demonstrate their genre blending superpowers on this mix which adds a garage swing to a jazz record, definitely going to be a jam for the dancefloors in 2023.   Both remixes showcase the importance of DJ Amir's unearthing of these strata gems, and Jazzanova's reimagining, how they have breathed new life into one of Detroit's hidden gems - Strata Records. They will definitely on board new audiences to the treasure trove that is Strata, and the iconic stories surrounding the often overlooked record label.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50482597429579,"sku":"2027700","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_ad413584_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727554227"},{"product_id":"orotunds-2","title":"Orotunds","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn association with DJ Amir's 180 Proof Records, BBE Music continues to bring the rarest of music to jazz heads everywhere with its latest Strata gem, Maulawi Nururdin's Orotunds, a virtually unknown and previously unreleased album.   Although there is an element of mystery to almost all jazz musicians, few are ever quite as enigmatic as Maulawi Nururdin. A legendary band leader and reedist to his disciples, information about Maulawi's personal life and early years is so scarce that even his birth name remains unknown. What is known is that Maulawi was a tougher-than-nails Chicagoan by birth, inescapable mentor to others, and a virtuoso jazz musician unlike any other. The earliest notes in Maulawi's history begin on the south side of Chicago as a close associate of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians with AACM pioneers Muhal Richard Abrams, Fred Anderson, Billy Brimfield and Roscoe Mitchell. From the beginning, Maulawi was a self assured leader, unafraid to boot other musicians off stage, commandeer their instrument, and give them an impromptu lesson on how to play it right. An intimidating figure in his signature beret and goatee, Maulawi wasn't a stranger to the streets, and often spent his free time driving around, hipping his prot?g?s to real life on the Chicago south side. But it would be his reputation as a musician, and not a streetwise bandleader, that would bring Maulawi to the doors of Strata Records.  \"Maulawi could really, really play,\" says percussionist Adam Rudolph, who, at 16 years old, began practicing and playing with Maulawi in the early 1970s. It was Rudolph who would introduce Maulawi to Strata's Charles Moore, a meeting which would lead to Maulawi's self-titled 1973 debut, the first album recorded by Strata by an artist from outside of Detroit.  True to the mysterious nature of Maulawi, even the story behind the recording of Ortunds is in dispute. They were either part of the 1973 sessions for Maulawi, recorded in a single night in Chicago, or from an unmixed session that took place in the Streeterville neighborhood at a later date. History aside, Ortunds never fails to astonish. Composed by Maulawi himself, Ortunds is an album of mostly Pop and R\u0026amp;B songs, all elevated by tip-toe funk tempos and Maulawi's wildly inventive soprano saxophone. Tracks include Thom Bell and Linda Creed's \"People Make The World Go Round,\" as well as the Burt Bacharach and Hal David-penned classic, \"I Say A Little Prayer.\" The title track is a drum and bass driven showcase, the perfect platform for Maulawi to strut his sublime expressionist style on the Saxophone. The album ends with a real find - a rarely heard spoken recording of Maulawi himself, introducing the players and defining the title Ortunds as \"full, clearness, strength and smoothness.\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LPx2","offer_id":50483349356875,"sku":"2029238","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_36e2488b_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727565456"},{"product_id":"make-the-call-two-soul-fusion-remixes","title":"Make The Call - Two Soul Fusion Remixes","description":"\u003cp\u003eTaken from the duo's 2021 album 'Break The Wall' MF Robots' Dawn Joseph and Jan Kincaid have released another slab of dance floor soul in 'Make The Call'.  A sure-fire groove that underpins a sublime vocal, 'Make The Call' is sure to be one of the festival, event and club hits of the Summer.  Now available on double 12\" vinyl: 'Make The Call' remixes from the legendary Two Soul Fusion duo of Louie Vega and Josh Milan. These remixes bring something new and special to the track with each creating a subtly different mood for the dance floor, for the radio and for the house party. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMF Robots is a songwriting, production and performing duo created by former Brand New Heavies founder Jan Kincaid and BNH vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Dawn Joseph.  The pair left the Heavies in 2014 to record their own compositions and have been wowing audiences and record buyers with their effortless blending of Soul, RnB, Funk, Disco and Jazz ever since.   Louie Vega is one half of the House music dons Masters at Work and Josh Milan is a Grammy nominated vocalist, musician and composer who also collaborate in Vega's collective 'Elements of Life'.  With both at the forefront of production, composition and remixing for more than three decades, the House, Boogie and Instrumental versions they have produced for 'Make The Call' are off the scale here.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"12\"","offer_id":50483865157963,"sku":"2028484","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/0029493368_71_49b29168_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727574860"},{"product_id":"paul-hillery-presents-we-are-the-children-of-the-setting-sun","title":"Paul Hillery presents We Are The Children of the Setting Sun","description":"\u003cp\u003ePaul Hillery's third compilation in this series of rare and hard to find grooves is as much a geographical journey as it is a musical one.  With acts, artists and tracks linked to London, Florida, Atlanta, the Netherlands, Switzerland, California, India and Germany and more this compilation is very much proof of the global language that is music.  With many of the recordings only previously existing on sold out and obscure private pressings and small runs on indie labels this collection of tracks really is a must have.  Complementing the previous two albums curated by Paul Hillery we really do get to see and hear the history of studio recordings from a plethora of touring and travelling troubadours, jobbing composers and song-writers, session musicians, producers and engineers.  Again, as with the previous two volumes in the 'Children of the Sun' series, this is an eclectic gathering of styles and genres that have been curated into an accessible fusion of Jazz, Rock, AOR and Folk tinged grooves that all have soul.   With many tracks getting a first time digital release this 3 LP album sits nicely alongside the previous albums in the series and rates as an essential compilation for any serious lover and collector of music.  In Paul Hillery's words: \"Let us gather one more time on another journey through the rhythmic sands of time, traversing continents and genres one track at a time. Taking in joyful places and wide-open spaces while dropping out to the musical pulse that unites us all  An album to remind us that we are all made of stardust with more to connect than drive us apart, for . . . We Are The Children of the Setting Sun\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50484141359435,"sku":"2046728","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_b0f130ed_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727582583"},{"product_id":"souled-out-feed-the-fire-remixes-2","title":"Souled Out \/ Feed The Fire Remixes","description":"\u003cp\u003eAudrey Powne's eagerly anticipated debut album has been met with widespread acclaim from a host of tastemakers and musicians. Garnering over 500 plays on UK radio, her music has reached an audience exceeding 2 million listeners. Many have touted her work as a strong contender for Jazz Album of the Year-a remarkable achievement for a debut release.  This exceptional remix pack features a soulful interpretation from the illustrious DJ and producer Joe Claussell, profoundly inspired by the album cut \"Souled Out.\" Claussell unveils three exquisite and spiritual remixes, each highlighting unique elements of Audrey's original production. Joaquin's Deep Version is quintessential Claussell, merging the bassy textures of a vintage King Tubby dub with vibrant percussion and dance-inducing beats. The \"Sacred Rhythm Mix\" is an essential for the dancefloor, weaving a seamless progression of expertly crafted sonic layers that culminate in a boogie-style crescendo, destined to be a summer anthem for DJs. The Souled The Cosmic Arts Interpretation mix completes the trinity expertly with an enchanting downtempo mix expertly seasoned with orchestral and percussive elements which breathes even more magic into Audrey's incredible vocal display on this track. True to Claussell's renowned craftsmanship, these remixes speak for themselves-listen and be transported.  Adding to the allure of this remix pack are the superb renditions of \"Feed The Fire'' by the legendary deep house producer Atjazz and the dynamic New York duo musclecars. Both remixes have garnered critical acclaim, elevating this package to an unprecedented level of excellence. Available for the first time on vinyl, these mixes are presented by BBE Music in a double pack, ensuring unparalleled sound quality that is spread out for maximum audio fidelity-a must-have for discerning DJs and vinyl aficionados who prize top-tier music pressed on wax.  This release is not just a collection of tracks but a treasure trove of sonic brilliance, making it indispensable for enthusiasts of high-quality, heartfelt music.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50530177876299,"sku":"2213989","price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_757c8a11_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1728073495"},{"product_id":"double-honey-pack-3","title":"Double Honey Pack","description":"\u003cp\u003eAfter the highly anticipated debut album \"Sugar Honey Iced Tea!,\" the dynamic NYC duo strikes once more with a double pack of alternate versions and remixes. Craig Handfield and Brandon Weems, better known as musclecars, have unveiled a dance music masterpiece, now graced by the touch of house music legends Louie Vega and Maurice Fulton.  This double pack showcases multiple versions of \"Tonight,\" remixed by dance music maestro Louie Vega, who momentarily stepped away from his Masters At Work ventures to infuse this project with his magic. The main remix unfolds like an epic journey adorned with orchestral elegance, while the dub versions range from festival anthems (NV South Jersey Mix) to tracks that echo the early Masters At Work essence (Louie Vega's Bronx Dub).  Additionally, we are gifted a new version of \"Hello?\" reimagined by Maurice Fulton. In this version, Maurice's signature live bass lines intertwine with exuberant, hard-hitting percussion, casting a whimsical light on the deep, introspective original.  Complementing the remixes from musclecars' esteemed inspirations, we encounter two new versions of \"Ha Ya! (Eternal Life)\" and \"Water,\" both stripped of percussion to reveal the stunning arrangements, textures, and harmonies. These renditions are accompanied by a full side of musclecars' dance odyssey \"I Don't Remember The Last Time I Saw Stars.\"  The Double Honey Pack is a tour de force. It's a rarity to witness two legends unite to elevate an already stellar project, yet Vega and Fulton achieve just that. Meanwhile, Weems and Handfield meticulously peel back the layers, allowing the intricate details to shine. This promises to be the release of the summer!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50531345760587,"sku":"2210954","price":32.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_434a6cb8_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1728104904"},{"product_id":"live-at-cafe-oto-5","title":"Live At Cafe OTO","description":"\u003cp\u003eBBE Music presents a meeting of musical spirits in a unique live recording captured just a few months before the world changed due to a global pandemic. Recorded in September 2019, Live at Caf? Oto sees two giant heavyweights of the post-war Japanese jazz scene come together with a pair of exemplary musicians from the heart of the new UK jazz movement. Generations and continents apart but united as one for a very special concert.  Together, performing at London's leading space of innovative and exploratory music - Caf? Oto in East London - pianist and composer Masahiko Satoh and drummer Takeo Moriyama fuse their musical forces with saxophonist Idris Rahman and bassist Leon Brichard, at the time both members of Ill Considered, one of the UK's most notable experimental jazz groups.  Masahiko Satoh and Takeo Moriyama are more than mere players of their respective instruments. They inhabit a higher realm, a space closer to icons or totems in their chosen fields. Both Satoh-san and Moriyama-san emerged as potent forces in the late 1960s - Satoh-san as an experimental and iconoclastic composer and pianist and Moriyama-san as the dynamo to the blistering Yosuke Yamashita Trio - a critical period in the development of free and modern jazz in Japan. A time that witnessed creative boundaries dissolve, new vectors of cultural transmission emerge and the very definition of 'jazz' undergoes intense and wide-ranging reframing by a new generation of artist. These artists eschewed prior conventions and forms and looked to construct a new musical vernacular.  That spirit of change and transformation is shared with the two younger players who accompanied them on that autumn Sunday evening in East London. As members of Ill Considered, reed player Idris Rahman and bassist Leon Brichard (Brichard has since left the group) were at the fulcrum of the burgeoning UK jazz and improvisation scene that has taken the world by storm in recent years. Ill Considered's sound was - and remains - centred on free improvisation and, in their own words, 'based loosely around simple pre-written themes or composed on the spot'. It was therefore natural that Idris and Leon were well matched to play alongside two seasoned veterans of the revolutionary free improvising scene of the late 60s and early 70s Japan.  Live at Caf? Oto presents a unique moment as generations meet in a unity of purpose to create a truly ecstatic experience that will not be forgotten by those lucky enough to be in the audience that night. That special moment can now be shared with you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"LPx2","offer_id":50531390980427,"sku":"2214055","price":36.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50531390816587,"sku":"2214049","price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_78ea1510_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1728106856"},{"product_id":"modal-forces-percussive-forces","title":"Modal Forces \/ Percussive Forces","description":"\u003cp\u003eLike a long-lost Holy Grail album from the mid-seventies, Kirk Degiorgio's latest project explores both Modal Jazz and Seventies Jazz Fusion in the Library album format. Side One swings with a vengeance with its tight arrangements built around acoustic bass, electric piano and glorious analogue synth leads and side 2 takes us on a journey of funk fuelled, percussive workouts and heavy breaks. The contribution of renowned session drummer Chris Whitten adds to the authenticity of the album as does the use of vintage, analog synths.  The Library album was predominant in TV and film studios in Italy and France with composers creating background, incidental and scene music for use in TV and movie production.  In recreating the sound library format Kirk Degiorgio has revelled in both the creative freedom and the test of melodic capability that the short form of the Library album allows.  As Kirk says, 'the skill with this kind of composing is to be able to express your ideas and thoughts in a maximum of two minutes at a time.'  Kirk Degiorgio is a DJ, composer and music lover whose influences, from family and then going out to clubs from under-18 discos to attending the Belvedere Arms and 'Shoom' and working in Reckless Records, cover all genres of Black music.  From Soul, Jazz-Funk, Funk and then House and Detroit Techno Kirk has a love and an appreciation for how all these sounds work together and evolve from each other.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50784566280523,"sku":"2019590","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_914c1d46_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731076997"},{"product_id":"saturday-night-special-2","title":"Saturday Night Special","description":"\u003cp\u003eSaturday Night Special by The Lyman Woodard Organization\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barely Breaking Even","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50904822481227,"sku":"2011144","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_6a4c0672_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1732826663"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/collections\/test_f19bd0bf_thumbnail_4096_9d2d76a0-546e-4498-9559-5208b5ff74c9.jpg?v=1726414221","url":"https:\/\/shop.roughtrade.com\/collections\/barely-breaking-even.oembed","provider":"Rough Trade","version":"1.0","type":"link"}