{"title":"Funk Embassy Records","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFunk Embassy Records is a Tallinn based record label founded in 2017. As a division of Estonian Funk Embassy, they release both archival findings and re-issues from Estonia, as well as contemporary funk, soul, disco, electro and jazz music. With their radio show, concert nights, party series, DJ collective, booking and management agency activities, Funk Embassy Records aims to provide a one-stop-shop for shaking your booties and connecting the small country's scene with that of the wider world!\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"remixes-7","title":"Remixes","description":"\u003cp\u003eBerlin’s own Steffen Linck, a multi-instrumentalist known as Monolink, announces the 12” remixes release, via Embassy One. ARTBAT + BEN BÖHMER + PATRICE BÄUMEL + MONOLINK – no more words needed.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Embassy One","offers":[{"title":"Black 12\"","offer_id":50412860211531,"sku":"2185456","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/EOM004__7090950d_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726669170"},{"product_id":"groove-of-essr-funk-disco-jazz-from-soviet-estonia","title":"Groove Of Essr: Funk, Disco, Jazz From Soviet Estonia","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe groovier side of Iron Curtain is uncovered by Funk Embassy Records via the 11-track LP, out on 12\" vinyl and CD. Recorded between 1974-1988, the compilers have unearthed funk, disco, soul, jazz, instrumentals, library music and covers from the Estonian Radio archives. This is the sound of ESSR (Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic) as heard at music halls, radio, TV shows and cafeterias along with underground parties and semilegal jazz clubs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe selection ranges from folk-funk, psychedelic soul, dancefloor certified disco, Isaac Hayes reminiscent blues-funk, contemplative jazz-funk, Piero Umiliani-esque library music, funk-rock, in-your-face b-boy break to a flute-led master piece by Uno Naissoo – one of the founders of the Estonian jazz scene who organized the notorious Tallinn Jazz Festivals (1949-1967).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eInspired by the resurgence of the spirit of Funk around the globe, the compilers have taken the intention to give a taste of Estonian music of the bygone Soviet era, during which the government attempted to control the artists and music being made. Nevertheless, a lot of influences made it through, as ESSR was the westernmost country in the Soviet Union. Since 1970s, Estonia's been a surprisingly fruitful ground for funk, soul, disco and jazz music. Just as well, contemporary acts like Misha Panfilov Sound Combo, Lexsoul Dancemachine and Estrada Orchestra have been well received in Europe and US. Archive findings by Frotee Records (e.g. Velly Joonas - Stopp Seisku Aeg), Peoples Potential Unlimited (e.g. Uku Kuut and Maryn releases) and Hyper Records (Collage represess) have met excited feedback. This LP serves as a worthy addition to introduce the small country's musical legacy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Embassy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50413814776139,"sku":"1069306","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50413816086859,"sku":"1069305","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/017f95d4-9b3d-4680-b142-bc3386236107_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726677641"},{"product_id":"king-of-funk","title":"King of Funk","description":"\u003cp\u003eFunk Night Records is very proud to announce the first full-length LP ever by Rickey Calloway. A definite must have for all funk and soul collectors. Featuring backing tracks from The Dap Kings, Will Sessions, The Soul Surfers and The Soul Motivators.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Night Records","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50426177487179,"sku":"2164073","price":42.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/King_of_Funk_ead7eb75_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726803587"},{"product_id":"world-of-ham","title":"World of Ham","description":"\u003cp\u003eDoktor Normal, the latest addition to Estonia's small yet buzzing funk scene backs its nerd hop\/novelty rap with MPC beats and synths. The first compositions date back to 2008, original inspiration lies in the TV series Garth Marenghi's Darkplace. Without any prior knowledge of producing hip-hop, the starting point was humor. After a 10-year hiatus, Doktor Normal got around the record an album. \n\"World of Ham\" is Doktor Normal's début LP released on vinyl (250 copies) and digitally. The 10-track album serves as a fine example of contemporary retro-hop and electro funk with an unusual additude. Child-like creativity, pure and unfiltered flow is further exemplified by the LP cover image, and texts filled purposely with grammatic errors. The essential mantra of Doktor Normal is: make your own rules!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Embassy Records","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50432113901899,"sku":"2165145","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_5e467933_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726863651"},{"product_id":"a-life-of-its-own-onhywg","title":"A Life of Its Own","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eA Life of Its Own\u003c\/i\u003e is a soul and R\u0026amp;B album, that might just become as timeless as a Bill Withers' LP. Rita Ray's sophmore album blends orchestral strings arranged by Miss Ray herself. Add a touch of Rhodes, Clavinet and a vintage sound that's authentic yet contemporary. The production duties were taken on by Future Classics. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSince her début \u003ci\u003eOld Love Will Rust\u003c\/i\u003e in 2019, Rita Ray has enjoyed a steady rise on the contemporary soul scene. Her songwriting, voice and grand productions in studio as well as live setting are a thing of beauty. While spurring comparisons to the likes of Aretha Franklin, Bill Withers and Duffy, one can safely say she's found her unique aesthetic. The small-town damsel's got a way to make you go through joy and pain. It was recognised by the Estonian Jazz Awards, handing over the \"Young Jazz Talent of the Year\" accolade to Rita in 2021. The crown jewel of Estonian R\u0026amp;B and soul, with her first-class band, is guaranteed to provide a journey on tape or before a crowd.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Embassy Records","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50445842874699,"sku":"2045759","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50445843202379,"sku":"2045760","price":29.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/product_id._b35b092f_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727047418"},{"product_id":"universal-language-2","title":"Universal Language","description":"\u003cp\u003eSilky Steps hustles towards the scene trailblazed by Nile Rodgers, and currently held by the likes of Jungle, L'Imperatrice and Parcels. The 5-piece hailing from Estonia's summer capital Pernau have their own concoction of neo-soul, nu-disco and pop-funk to offer, though. At the helm, a combo of male-female lead vocals sing about the X-rated side of life. Plentiful synths and suave basslines get all the right juices flowing. All the while a musical guest will pop in here and there to provide a sax solo, sing a ref or throw down a little rap.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe latter is especially true for \u003ci\u003eUniversal Language\u003c\/i\u003e, as 2023 sees the group step up their game in a big way. Their 2nd single \"Fly, Goodbye\" took off as the title suggests and got its first BBC 6 airplay on the revered Cerys Matthews show. Robert Linna of Lexsoul Dancemachine lent his falsetto to the latter track, while MC Roki raps on \"Falling For You\" and Rahel collabs on the title-track. In total, there are 10 tracks on the album that's put out via Funk Embassy Records - the Estonian imprint that recently won Record label of the Year at the local music industry awards.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Embassy Records","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50478680277323,"sku":"2027201","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Universal_Language_f35770fd_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727488564"},{"product_id":"oige-aeg","title":"Oige Aeg","description":"\u003cp\u003eHaldi \u0026amp; ans Flamingo give new wings to the groove of Estonia's yesteryears. While in her early twenties, the lead singer, composer and co-producer Haldi has studied the bygone era's music and history in depth. She's especially interested in Estonian language and heritage mixing with soul, jazz, funk and disco influences that made their way into the estrada music of the 1970.-1980s. As a scholar of pioneers Marju Kuut, Velly Joonas, Heidy Tamme and Els Himma, Haldi believes the stylistic approach deserves a second chance in the free world, where a woman can sing about intimacy and love all she wants. So she's done just that with the co-writer, bass player and producer Mattias Tirmaste. They are joined by an ensemble of Flamingos complete with backing vocals, percussion and a horn section.\n\"Õige aeg\" (tr. The Right Time) is the group's début EP on Funk Embassy Records. The lengthy 6-tracker will be released digitally alongside audiophile friendly 180g vinyl, pressed in Estonia. Haldi \u0026amp; ans Flamingos recorded the music in old fashioned way under the supervision of Sten-Olle Moldau in Susi Studio and Sindi Seltsimaja. Those with an ear for beautiful vocal and pipe arrangements are in for a treat. There's something special in the way Haldi loves to layer her vocals and play around with the exotic Estonian language. Singles \"Meile kahele\" (tr. For the Two Of Us) and \"Muusika\" (tr. Music) have earned airplay around the world, more notably via Radioeins, FIP and Radio Capital. With uptempo discotheque material as well as songs for the bedroom, \"Õige aeg\" will be a worthy extension of Estonia's musical legacy into the modern times.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Embassy Records","offers":[{"title":"Black 12\"","offer_id":50532301766987,"sku":"2218055","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_2371e7a6_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1728119156"},{"product_id":"ultrabliss","title":"Ultrabliss","description":"\u003cp\u003eInspired by Stanley Kubrick's cult film \u003ci\u003eA Clockwork Orange \u003c\/i\u003e(1971) and largely free from structural constraints of traditional songs, the Austrian band unleashes their musical imagination with the finest jams and dancefloor fillers. \u003ci\u003eUltrabliss\u003c\/i\u003e unites nine extremely varied tracks with elements of classic rock, krautrock, and prog-rock that are sure to please fans of Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd, as well as followers of the Red Hot Chili Peppers or British indie icons like Franz Ferdinand, the Arctic Monkeys, or Kasabian\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLike its predecessor \u003ci\u003eCyberfunk!, Ultrabliss\u003c\/i\u003e was recorded at Sevenarts Studio, Überlärm Studio, and Moonwalker Productions Studio, and once again sonically brought to life by singer, guitarist, and songwriter Yves Krismer in collaboration with Manuel Renner and Raphael Neikes. Neikes, who plays guitar and keyboards live, has become the fourth band member. Founding drummer Jan Haußels has amicably left the band after the album sessions and will be replaced by Alex Kerbl on drums from now on.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Embassy of Music","offers":[{"title":"Yellow LP","offer_id":50858747658571,"sku":"2233258","price":47.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50858747265355,"sku":"2233257","price":32.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50858745069899,"sku":"2233256","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Ultrabliss_6e445b7a_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1731969017"},{"product_id":"groove-of-essr-ii-funk-soul-disco-and-jazz-from-estonia-4syrvp","title":"Groove of ESSR II: Funk, Soul, Disco and Jazz from Estonia","description":"\u003cp\u003e\"ESSR” in the \u003ci\u003eGroove of ESSR II\u003c\/i\u003e stands for Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic. Yet for Estonia, there was nothing really “republic” about the situation of being occupied by Soviet Russia. So escaping the oppression through music is a running theme for the Groove of ESSR compilation. Funk Embassy Recs returns with the second volume of tracks that hide meaning between lines or offer solace on the dancefloor. It’s an ongoing journey to uncover these jewels and meet their makers. Majority of these pieces will be released for the first time. During the production of this album, two of the most influential figures in Estonian funk and soul passed on: Marju “Maryn” Kuut (1946-2022) and Tõnu Aare (1953-2021). In music lies strength and truth. This album is dedicated to them. May they live on forever through music, alongside all of the artists represented here.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Embassy Records","offers":[{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50962476630347,"sku":"2236047","price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/product_id._895409de_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1733922384"},{"product_id":"groove-of-essr-iii-tw","title":"Groove Of Essr III","description":"\u003cp\u003eSoul, Jazz-funk and easy listening from Soviet Estonia. Groove of ESSR III marks the next chapter in highlighting the musical heritage trapped behind the Iron Curtain during the Soviet occupation. The tracklist spans recordings from 1971-1983 by Estonian artists, most of whom were born under a foreign regime after the war. Nevertheless, they had relatives in the West and antennas tuned in to Finnish radio signals. In a closed up world, they had the courage to explore the groove without borders. Many performers and songwriters became the most sought-after artists throughout all of Soviet Russia, not because they blindly followed the communist party's canon. On the contrary, the sheer brilliance of their compositions, exceptional artistry, and stage acts that felt like the West attracted audiences even if they couldn't understand the lyrics. Trying to control, censor, and stop bands from doing their thing became impossible in some cases. Despite multiple attempts to stop him, Gunnar -Iron Man- Graps only sang in Estonian and played any kind of music he wanted. We didn't hold back on the classics this time, since their hit status stems mostly from the 1.3 million people in the northernmost Baltic state. One exception is \"Stopp, seisku aeg!\" which has already garnered international attention thanks to Frotee Records’ 7-inch release and the amazing Funked Up East YouTube channel. As is our custom, you'll find cuts that had never made it out of the archives' analog tapes before we restored them with the help of both Estonian Radio personnel and mastering engineer Jörgen Hermaste. To accompany the music, we've written a few words about each track and artist on the record sleeve. A more saddening tradition has also taken root, with the heroes who laid the foundation for our rich music scene passing away. So we dedicate the Groove of ESSR III volume to Els Himma (1940-2025) and Mikk Targo (1959-2025), exceptional human beings who left us with the gift of their music and memories of interesting and fun moments working together to give this music another life. The latter suitably kicks off volume number 3 with the track 'Nr. 3,' the third song he ever wrote. Make no mistake, our nostalgia is not for the USSR, but for the unique spirit of people who would use music to withstand terror, deportation, and oppression. Ultimately, united by the Singing Revolution, they won back what was taken from them - their freedom. We stand with Ukraine and the rest of the world that takes a clear stance against the evil imperialistic politics of Russia and the likes. May the Soviet Union never return!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Funk Embassy Records","offers":[{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":53671313473867,"sku":"R1253-7983","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/p_ce0b1869-8782-4e11-8880-5a1978eaae35.jpg?v=1760859282"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/collections\/test_bfc2ee0b_thumbnail_4096_d3f2d102-de94-450f-b45e-1884d0ad319b.jpg?v=1726014754","url":"https:\/\/shop.roughtrade.com\/collections\/funk-embassy-records.oembed","provider":"Rough Trade","version":"1.0","type":"link"}