{"title":"Mr Bongo","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eMr Bongo, established in 1989, is celebrated for championing global sounds, rare grooves, and Latin, Afrobeat, and funk music. Renowned for reissuing classic world and dance recordings alongside contemporary releases, the label has built a legacy of uncovering hidden gems and shaping eclectic, genre-spanning collections for discerning listeners.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"the-devil-is-loose","title":"The Devil Is Loose","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe can't think of many artists that have had as diverse a career and who have been involved in as many different genres of music as \u003cstrong\u003eAsha Puthli\u003c\/strong\u003e. A musical pioneer who forged a path through 60's psych, free-jazz, pop, rock, disco, and more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsha's 1976 album \u003cem\u003eThe Devil Is Loose\u003c\/em\u003e is maybe her most well-known record. Featuring the beautiful disco-funk-classic \"\u003cem\u003eSpace Talk\u003c\/em\u003e,\" Asha's ethereal soaring vocals take us on a journey that almost mirrors Asha's eclectic career.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe track was championed by a wide-range of musical scenes and movements, and over space and time it has been commandeered as their own. You would hear it played by David Mancuso at the now mythical underground New York party The Loft, in the most discerning disco nightclubs across the globe, in the Rare Groove scene, and also being sampled by hip-hop heavyweights such as The Notorious B.I.G \/ P Diddy, and The Pharcyde.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe appeal and lifespan of \u003cem\u003eSpace Talk\u003c\/em\u003e keeps on extending and morphing as new audiences gleefully discover it for the first time - it still sounds as relevant and fresh on the dancefloor today - a sign of a true classic.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"LP - Pink","offer_id":50380117049675,"sku":"1114011","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50380117180747,"sku":"1114010","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Gold","offer_id":50380117311819,"sku":"2211959","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50380116885835,"sku":"1114009","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/2000x2000bb_b04a4907-4dc4-47e0-b453-c7d60077f410.jpg?v=1777028392"},{"product_id":"dj-marky-brazil-45-boxset-vol-2","title":"DJ Marky\tBrazil 45 Boxset Vol.2","description":"\u003cp\u003eCurated by the legendary DJ Marky for Record Store Day 2021. This is our second volume of Brazilian dance floor classics from the golden era. This project has been a long time in the planning, but good things come to those who wait. We are delighted to present the second volume in our \"Brazil 45 Boxset Curated by\" series. For this one we have gone straight to the source, Brazil's DJ Marky (Marco Antônio Silva) selects inspirations and favourites from the golden era of Brazilian music. For his boxset, DJ Marky has gone back to his roots and selected tracks by Brazilian music royalty from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eArtists such as Marcos Valle, Elis Regina, Jorge Ben, and Joyce all feature. It is Joyce's anthemic \u003ci\u003eAldeia De Ogum\u003c\/i\u003e that has proven to be responsible for many record collectors and DJs outside of Brazil starting a lifelong obsession with Brazilian music exploration. We also find another anthem in the form of Jorge Ben's \u003ci\u003eTake It Easy My Brother Charles\u003c\/i\u003e, which was sampled by Drumagick for their 2002 track 'Easy Boom'. His selection from Marcos Valle is the tripped-out, rarer 1970 version of 'Os Grilos' which, with its irresistible quirky swagger, is impossible to keep your feet from moving. The accordion-led \u003ci\u003eBaião Violado\u003c\/i\u003e by Dominguinhos, with its soaring strings and funked-out drum beat, is a real star of the show in the collection. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis boxset feels like your long-lost favourite mixtape, packed with evocative memories and skilfully gelled together with inspirational tracks that will appeal to those with a knowledge of Brazilian music and to the first-time buyer just wanting to discover something new. Exactly what we hoped for from such a respected DJ, producer, and bonafide musical pioneer. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e7” 1: 1. Marcos Valle – Os Grilos \/ 2. Robson Jorge \u0026amp; Lincoln Olivetti – Eva \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e7” 2: 1. Orlandivo – Tamanco No Samba \/ 2. Elis Regina – Noves Fora \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e7” 3: 1. Bebeto – Agua Marinha \/ 2. Joyce – Aldeia De Ogum \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e7” 4: 1. Som Tres – Emilia \/ 2. Trio Mocoto – Nao Adianta \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e7” 5: 1. Dominguinhos – Baiao Violado \/ 2. 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From 60s psych, Classical Indian music, Free Jazz, Pop, Soul, Disco, to Rock, the list goes on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA best-of or an essential collection is always going to be a subjective thing, but for what is unbelievably the first official compilation covering the full breadth of Asha's illustrious career, we aimed to provide a snapshot into her ever-evolving musical journey and a tribute to the vast richness of her catalogue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSome singers want to be famous, others are pop star icons, and some are artists; Asha is the latter. Asha is a true force of nature, regardless of the genre she explores, she fully commits, moves on, and reinvents herself, always progressing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLooking back on Asha's career, it is evident what a trail-blazer she was, opening doors for her contemporaries and those who came later to step through. Whether it was conscious or not, you can recognize Asha’s influence in aspects of \u003cem\u003eKate Bush\u003c\/em\u003e's ethereal image and performance, in \u003cem\u003eDonna Summer\u003c\/em\u003e’s high-smooth vocal sound and disco stylings, and in the gumption and power of \u003cem\u003eGrace Jones\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKick-starting the compilation is ‘\u003cem\u003ePain\u003c\/em\u003e’, the Indian psychedelic garage rock sounds of The Savages featuring Asha. We have to admit, we had to strong-arm Asha into letting us include this track at first; also due to its rare nature (and lack of any master tapes) the recording we present here is raw and low-fi. However, we felt its inclusion was important to fully represent the journey of Asha's career, the same consideration was also applied to two of the Asha and The Surfers’ songs that we have included in this collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsha saw a link between jazz and classical Indian music \"the improvisation, the minor chords, the free form, the liberalness of the art\" we showcase her love of jazz here with seminal works with the legendary \u003cem\u003eOrnette Coleman\u003c\/em\u003e, taken from the revered \u003cem\u003eScience Fiction\u003c\/em\u003e album.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAsha's 'CBS years' are represented here, how could we not include 'Space Talk' on this collection, and how these years progressed into her amazing disco offerings such as 'I'm Gonna Dance' and 'Music Machine'. The bizarre 'We're Gonna Bury The Rock With The Roll Tonight' from 1980 has also won us over. 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Bass, synths, horns, drums, cuica and soulful vocals, textbook 80's Rio vibes. Originally released on the Saci Perer? LP in 1980. The full length version was released on 12\" in the UK in the same year and became a classic on the 'Rare Groove' scene.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e  In the words of the one and only DJ Nuts \"Some people say that the first rap song from Brazil is 'Melo do Tagarela'\". Recorded in 1980 by the famous Brazilian actor Miele, this is the instrumental version of his take on Sugarhill Gang's 'Rappers Delight'.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"7\"","offer_id":50383427830091,"sku":"2017689","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_b052bee8_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726269763"},{"product_id":"the-original-sound-of-burkina-faso","title":"The Original Sound Of Burkina Faso","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Original Sound of Burkina Faso is a collection of songs that pay tribute to a truly golden age of music; touching on folk, funk, blues, highlife, disco, psyche, latin, rock, and soul.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBurkina Faso\u003c\/strong\u003e may be one of the least well-known parts of West Africa but it has a deep history and musical pedigree. A few years before President Thomas Sankara changed his country's name from Upper Volta to its current one, a new sound emerged to soundtrack a cultural revolution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFeaturing music by \u003cstrong\u003eAbdoulaye Cisse\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eAmadou Balake\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003ePierre Sandwidi\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eSuper Volta\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eTidiani Coulibaly\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eDafra Star\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eBozambo\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eYoussouf Diarra\u003c\/strong\u003e and more.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50383978103115,"sku":"1020206","price":5.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50471441236299,"sku":"1020207","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_397306b6_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726281411"},{"product_id":"os-brazoes-1","title":"Os Brazoes","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOs Brazoes\u003c\/strong\u003e self-titled album is a rare and highly sought after psychedelic masterpiece originally released on RGE Discos in 1969. The album fuses samba, r’n’b, and rock ’n’ roll influences using fuzz guitars, synths, percussion, lush vocals, and effects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOs Brazoes\u003c\/strong\u003e formed in Rio de Janeiro in the late 1960’s and backed Gal Costa during her Tropicalia period. However, they apparently never recorded in the studio with her. The band's front man, Miguel de Deus, recorded the highly sought after ‘Black Soul Brothers’ LP in 1977, which became an important record in the ‘Black Rio’ movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMr Bongo\u003c\/strong\u003e released the title track from ‘Black Soul Brothers’ on the ‘Brazilian Beats: Brooklyn’ compilation in 2006 and recently as part of their Brazil 45’s re-issue series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e‘\u003cem\u003eOs Brazoes\u003c\/em\u003e’ features covers of Gilberto Gil’s ‘\u003cem\u003ePega a Voga, Cabeludo\u003c\/em\u003e’ and Jorge Ben and Toquinho’s ‘\u003cem\u003eCarolina, Carol Bela\u003c\/em\u003e’. The \u003cstrong\u003eMr Bongo\u003c\/strong\u003e LP reissue is manufactured in Japan, presented in a super high-quality card sleeve with replica original artwork. The CD is presented in a 4-page digi-pack.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black | LP","offer_id":50383978201419,"sku":"354000","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50383978135883,"sku":"1069273","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/fc7b888b-b61b-4cde-9c34-adacc336e391_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726281424"},{"product_id":"arthur-verocai","title":"Arthur Verocai","description":"A cornerstone of Brazilian 70s psychedelia, with lush bossa nova, samba, and jazz arrangements. Samples used by countless hip-hop artists such as \u003cb\u003eLudacris\u003c\/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eMF DOOM\u003c\/b\u003e brought the record into the mainstream.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eJess, Rough Trade Office\u003c\/b\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Green LP | Rough Trade Exclusive","offer_id":50384698343755,"sku":"2010999","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Gold | LP","offer_id":50384455827787,"sku":"1155999","price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Red | LP","offer_id":50384696246603,"sku":"1110245","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50384456089931,"sku":"403536","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50384698016075,"sku":"403537","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Black US","offer_id":56237708411211,"sku":"R5682-8660","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/cc774b43-2aec-4a56-9070-6292702395b6_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726302439"},{"product_id":"juice","title":"Juice","description":"\u003cp\u003eClassic jazz-funk fusion from the late, great Japanese guitarist Ryo Kawasaki. Recorded in New York, and originally released in 1976, \u003ci\u003eJuice\u003c\/i\u003e presents Ryo at the height of his powers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBorn in Japan in 1947, Ryo had a long and stellar career recording and releasing music up until his passing on 13 April 2020, in Tallinn, Estonia. Ryo is one of the pioneers of the jazz fusion genre, with the Japanese jazz fusion \/ funk sound becoming extremely influential within the 80s UK club scene and amongst its DJs. His track 'Trinkets and Things' became a bonafide underground classic. In the US he worked with some of the greats of jazz, such as Elvin Jones, Chico Hamilton and Bobbi Humphrey, to name but a few. A forward-thinking and ever-evolving musician, Ryo collaborated with the Roland Corporation and Korg on the 'guitar synthesizer' and later wrote music software for computers. Later in life he relocated to Estonia and worked there, as well as Finland, Sweden, and the Baltic states. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eJuice \u003c\/i\u003ehas become a much-loved album for crate diggers and jazz-funk enthusiasts, with its tracks frequently being sampled and re-imagined in hip-hop. The smoky, beat- down, spiritual funk jam 'Bamboo Child' has been flipped by Diamond D, Puff Daddy, and Kool G Rap. The album was released in 1976 on RCA Records and features the musicians' drummer Jimmy Young, rhythm guitarist Hugh McCracken, and bassist Stu Woods amongst other luminaries. A solid album throughout that incorporates a heavy dose of tripped-out synths alongside the emerging disco sound of the time. Tracks such as the opener 'Raisins', with its drum beat intro and bubbling bass-line, rivals The Headhunters at their finest. A superb album from an underground legend.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50389203616075,"sku":"1158794","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50389204173131,"sku":"1158795","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/d8aba82b-5f86-4b01-9c4e-077a1fc67bf7_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726355471"},{"product_id":"grupo-irakere","title":"Grupo Irakere","description":"\u003cp\u003eFor the second instalment in our Cuban Classics series, we proudly\npresent this sought-after slice of sublime Afro-Cuban jazz from 1976.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt comes courtesy of one of Cuba's most influential acts, Grupo Irakere. Founded\nin 1973 by Chucho Valdes (son of the Cuban pianist and bandleader Bebo Valdes)\nthe group was home to many of Cuba's finest musicians over the years. With an\nelectrifying style and sound, they mixed traditional Cuban music with jazz, funk,\nand rock.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis self-titled album includes the much-loved, dancefloor heavy-hitter 'Chequere-\nSon', a Latin- jazz funk masterpiece with Cubanized bebop- flavoured horn lines,\nlush keys, and '70s hip swagger. Though 'Chequere-Son' is the keystone of the\nrecord, the album is laced with brilliance at every turn, from the Carlos Santana-\nesque channelling 'Iya' with its percussive Latin power, to the sultry, slick and\npassionate '38 1\/2'. Elsewhere, the absorbing, ever- building energy of 'Juana\n1600' and steamy vocal dancer 'Xiomara' are also highlights of this incredible\nalbum.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePressed on Cuba's state led Areito Records, the album was well received\ninternationally, garnering distribution in Finland on Love Records, in Italy on Phase\n6 Super Stereo, and also in the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Venezuela.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA cherished Afro-Cuban triumph, this album has been crying out for a reissue and Mr Bongo are delighted to make that happen.\n\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50389754839371,"sku":"2167923","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50389754511691,"sku":"2167922","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/1178c7f3-5e57-45b7-aa70-446472f831c9_2ad5b051_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726370739"},{"product_id":"mr-bongo-record-club-vol-3","title":"Mr Bongo Record Club Vol. 3","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMr Bongo Record Club Volume Three\u003c\/em\u003e is the latest installment in the series, showcasing recent vinyl finds and favorites from Mr Bongo's DJ sets and radio shows. This edition is extra special as it coincides with the celebration of 30 years since the label's inception in 1989.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeaturing tracks such as \"\u003cem\u003eFui A Umbanda\u003c\/em\u003e\" by J.B. De Carvalho E Seu Terreiro, \"\u003cem\u003eA Gira\u003c\/em\u003e\" by Trio Ternura, and \"\u003cem\u003eFiga De Guine\u003c\/em\u003e\" by Alcione, this album also includes gems like \"\u003cem\u003eDon't Stop\u003c\/em\u003e\" by SpaceArk (Unreleased Long Version), \"\u003cem\u003eYou Can Be A Star\u003c\/em\u003e\" by Luther Davis Group, and \"\u003cem\u003eKhomo Tsaka Deile Kae?\u003c\/em\u003e\" by Marumo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther standout tracks on the album include \"\u003cem\u003eLet Me Try\u003c\/em\u003e\" by Kaleidoscope, \"\u003cem\u003eI Want To Be\u003c\/em\u003e\" by Elias Rahbani, and \"\u003cem\u003eCoffee Cold\u003c\/em\u003e\" by Galt MacDermot. With a diverse selection of tracks spanning different genres and eras, \u003cem\u003eMr Bongo Record Club Volume Three\u003c\/em\u003e is a must-have for music enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50389838856523,"sku":"1064027","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50389839184203,"sku":"1064028","price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/85a5ab5d-5e5b-4eff-b4f5-d9e4c1dc4378_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726374703"},{"product_id":"ii-11","title":"II","description":"\u003cp\u003eSoyuz stole our hearts back in 2022 when we released their album Force Of The Wind to critical acclaim.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Here we proudly present the predecessor to that LP, the band's sophomore long player from 2019 that was previously only available digitally. It captures a pivotal evolving period in the band's career, the recordings giving a snapshot of what would become their sound on Force Of The Wind, yet with echoes of avant-psychchedelic-pop footprints from yester years. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProduced at a time when band leader Alex Chumak had moved from Minsk to Kyiv, torn between the need to try something new and the homesickness it brought about. Travelling back to Minsk almost weekly, Alex joined fellow band members Mikita Arlou and Stanislav Murashko to lay down II at Studio 42. The album captures these transient feelings, contextualised through the broad scope of influences the band were nourished by. From MPB to Ethio-Jazz and the Italian library soundtracks of Piero Piccioni and Piero Umiliani, the album shines with touches of joy from across the globe. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe opening track 'Verocai' is a tribute to the Brazilian maestro and 'Mirouze', whilst being named after a French favourite of the band, Jean-Pierre Mirouze, pays clear homage to Milton Nascimento and Lo Borges. A ghostly sample and invisible connection to music made miles away in a different era that has influenced and become part of the band's lives. This is further reinforced in the album's enchanting closer, the aptly titled 'Nascimento', another nod to the great Brazilian musician and singer. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe beginnings of the cinematic, soul-laden jazz SOYUZ are now known for, are on display across the likes of 'Lyric' and 'Motive I'. The latter an orchestrated jazz instrumental with sensuous string sections, all of which were recorded on the warmth of a Studer reel-to-reel and waltzing Rhodes keys. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSoyuz's wide ranging palate is further demonstrated in tracks like 'Business Partners' with its Krauty, kosmische, new wave production featuring Inturist, and the oh-too-short Anatolian-influenced interlude 'Corrida'. Elsewhere, 'Tezeta' and 'ES-2 Jazz' hint at the psychedelic haze of soul-funk, with the former featuring verses from Serbian rapper Petar Martic. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor this new physical and digital release, the whole album was mixed from scratch by Ryan Power before Joker worked his magic on the remaster. More excellence is to come from SOYUZ, but in the meantime, we are thrilled to present this essential recording from the band's foundational years, mixed to a level that does it the justice it deserves. Remastered for its first time on vinyl. 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You’re reminded of the feelings you had when sitting at home with a cassette player on pause trying to compile the perfect mixtape to impress the latest object of your affection, or that friend with whom you share a musical kinship and spark off each other’s latest discoveries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHearing old tracks for the first time or diving into the most upfront selections keeps the fires burning and passions alight. Here, for volume six, \u003cstrong\u003eMr Bongo\u003c\/strong\u003e present recent finds and treasured classics from Brazil, Sweden, the USA, South Africa, Portugal, Japan, Trinidad and Tobago, and Canada.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIncluded are selections by the Brazilian rising star \u003cem\u003eDora Morelenbaum\u003c\/em\u003e as well as from heritage-Brazilian musicians and vocalists \u003cem\u003eHaréton Salvanini\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eCopa 7\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eMirna\u003c\/em\u003e. There’s also the wonderful Brazilian-not-Brazilian take of \"\u003cem\u003eYe Me Le\u003c\/em\u003e\" by \u003cem\u003eHazel Scott And The Braza Brasil\u003c\/em\u003e, plus sublime gospel from the \u003cem\u003eNew York Community Choir\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAlso picked is disco and soul rarities by \u003cem\u003eGeneral Lee\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eAsh Soul, Inc.\u003c\/em\u003e, and for the first time on vinyl, an incredible psych-pop song by the illustrious \u003cem\u003eMatthew Tavares\u003c\/em\u003e. There are cuts from some of favourite contemporary Swedish musicians, \u003cem\u003eSven Wunder\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eDina Ögon\u003c\/em\u003e too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis compilation is packed full of gems that are plucked from differing times and spaces, but somehow all gel together beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"2LP - Red","offer_id":50397221257547,"sku":"2024791","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2LP - Black","offer_id":50397219225931,"sku":"2024790","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50397217784139,"sku":"2024789","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Mr_Bongo_Record_Club_Vol._6_f47da629_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726488767"},{"product_id":"teatro-amadeo-roldan-recita","title":"Teatro Amadeo Roldan Recita","description":"\u003cp\u003eFor the third release in our Mr Bongo Cuban Classics series, we reissue the iconic 1974 debut album by the mighty Grupo Irakere.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Led by Chucho Valdes, son of Cuban pianist and bandleader Bebo Valdes, the band would go on to become of the most influential and successful groups emanating from Cuba in this period. Their debut \u003ci\u003eTeatro Amadeo Roldan Recital\u003c\/i\u003e is an in- demand and incredible Afro-Cuban jazz-funk masterpiece originally landing on Cuba's state-owned imprint, Areito. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the jewels of the album is the beast of an opener, 'Bacalao Con Pan'. A heavy dancefloor Latin-funk burner, with ripping Wah-Wah guitar, a blistering mix of Latin percussive elements and horns firing on all cylinders. It's a song which builds and breaks with an energy and power that still lights up the dance to this very day. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe album is a varied bag of tricks, traversing moods, styles and genres whilst melding traditional rhythms with more contemporary mindsets. Take the delectable downtempo ballad 'Danza Naniga' or 'Valle Picadura' that starts on a similar tip, before erupting into a horn heavy heater. Move through to find 'Taka Taka Ta' where Afro-Cuban jazz, call and response vocals and brain- busting organs marry in steamy unison.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Elsewhere, continuing this melting pot of musical influences, the prog\/ psychedelic rock leaning 'Quindiambo', expertly combines traditional Latin music with psych rock in a similar way to Santana. 'Misaluba' is another highlight, a cover version of a song by the British-Italian based group Cyan, written by Mario \u0026amp; Giosy Capuano, making it their own with this tripped-out, percussion-rich makeover.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e As debuts go, Grupo Irakere's \u003ci\u003eTeatro Amadeo Roldan Recital\u003c\/i\u003e is about as good as it gets and gives a snapshot of Cuba in the mid '70s, with a band that were destined for big things.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50398995775819,"sku":"2173960","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50398995120459,"sku":"2173959","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/af089160-a065-42a0-972b-e41cfb57399f_bda990fb_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726500423"},{"product_id":"simba","title":"Simba","description":"\u003cp\u003eBaltimore-born, Levy was already well regarded as one of the best up-and-coming jazz guitarists at the time of \u003ci\u003eSimba's\u003c\/i\u003e release. Having toured with George Benson and Jimmy McGriff, as well as featuring on McGriff's Black Pearl album on Blue Note, he went on to sign with Sonny Lester's Groove Merchant. Produced by Lester himself and recorded over two back-to-back days of sessions in 1973, \u003ci\u003eSimba\u003c\/i\u003e features a who's who of '70s session players. The album features the legendary studio drummer Steve Gadd, Cecil Bridgewater on Flugelhorn, bass by Tony Levin and arrangements by Manny Albam. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA masterclass in tight yet effortlessly funk-driven rhythms, the tracks showcase these musicians at their zenith. Album opener 'Bad, Bad, Simba' wouldn't have been out of place on a Lalo Schifrin '70s car chase soundtrack. Levy's playing is brilliant, bright and slick, with an infectiously exuberant energy that is complimented perfectly by Gadd's supreme drumming. 'Playhouse' serves up another vibrant offering, Wah Wah guitars, horns and flutes duelling it out in a fast-paced fashion. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe cinematic thread continues throughout, yet with the tempo taken down a notch. 'Sierra Lonely' and 'Sad, Sad, Simba' head into lush ballad territory, with superb arrangements by Albam and beautiful playing by Collins and Bridgewater on Flugelhorn. Here Levy shines without taking any limelight, as the players synergize to a relaxed perfection. 'Nigerian Knights' closes the album flawlessly, showcasing once more Levy's understated yet magnetic flow on the guitar. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEvery track on \u003ci\u003eSimba\u003c\/i\u003e is a winner. As with CTI Recordings of the same era, the feel and textures of Sonny Lester's productions have that preemptive, hip- hop aesthetic, which later producers would rework and reimagine. This album is expertly balanced, deftly arranged and magically executed, ebbing and flowing with a cool buoyancy that just grooves and grooves.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50399772016971,"sku":"2169648","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50399772803403,"sku":"2177407","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/365b073c-c334-4eab-ad1f-9855419d2893_a8f4196b_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726507917"},{"product_id":"chi-talo-ep-volume-2","title":"Chi Talo EP Volume 2","description":"\u003cp\u003eRecord label boss, producer\/DJ, and revered collector \u003cstrong\u003eMarc Davis\u003c\/strong\u003e returns to his \u003cem\u003eChi-Talo\u003c\/em\u003e series with the much-anticipated second volume. A concept of a split EP, taking one ultra-rare Chicago gem and the other a scarce Italian disco record and re-interpreting them for the modern dancefloor aesthetic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith the first volume, released on Marc's own Black Pegasus label, now trading hands for considerable amounts of money, round two sees him impart another double dose of digging sorcery for this \u003cem\u003eMr Bongo\u003c\/em\u003e 12\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMarc began his illustrious career in the Windy City in the '80s and was one of the first out of Chicago to be recognized for his eclectic approach to DJing. Presenting a global sound palette that took in choice cuts from Brazil, Africa, jazz fusion, house, soul, and disco, whilst mixing it together Chicago style. Decades of knowledge and experience that is now distilled down into the \u003cem\u003eChi-Talo\u003c\/em\u003e series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Italo selection came via a tip from Marc's Swedish friend, Julian Wareing. Hearing the track led Marc down the rabbit hole to secure a copy of this Italo-Disco, album cut oddity by the New Sound Quartet from 1979. The original of \"\u003cem\u003eBass Construction\u003c\/em\u003e\", measures in at four and a half minutes and is already a feverish funk groover. But Marc saw an opportunity to extend and re-edit the track, keeping in the vein of the original but giving it space to breathe. Tweaking out every last ounce of goodness, Marc locks you into a hypnotic groove for maximum dancefloor deliverance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chicago side is as rare, as the rarest of hens-teeth, only ever existing as a one-off acetate by the band The Saucer Planes. One of the members of the group was the sadly passed-away older brother of Marc's DJ mentor, Jahmal Anderson. From the very first listen, Marc knew he'd been hooked up with an undiscovered boogie gem. A long-lost track that the world needed to hear. But the project has remained dormant until now, not least due to the fact that the original recording of this low-fi vocal boogie groove is housed on an ever-deteriorating solo acetate. Rescued, restored, and given a brand-new lease of life, Marc has turned the track into a low-slung, psychedelic instrumental boogie bounce. Raw, rough, and mesmerizing, it's a refreshed relic that is a testament to Chicago's club sound and swagger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhichever side you draw for, this is guaranteed to move bodies as much as it wins over hearts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black 12\" - 2176953","offer_id":50399892275531,"sku":"2176953","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_2abbfa8e_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726508752"},{"product_id":"luke-una-mr-bongo-edits","title":"Luke Una - Mr Bongo Edits","description":"\u003cp\u003eA cosmic coming together that sees two of Luke's secret weapons, re-edited and  re-contextualised by the man himself to provide optimal dancefloor euphoria.     A stalwart of the underground for nearly 40 years, Luke has become an appointed  leader of the late night disenfranchised, with an unquestionable ability to pick  records that make minds tick. \"I've been an avid collector of afro-beat house, techno and underground  black heart disco since before the basement soul days of Electric Chair 30 years  ago. Both these bombs were very much holy grail finds, plucked from the last four  decades of digging in random crates of dusty vinyl all over the world.\" \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e    First up, Thandi Zulu and The Young Five's interpretation of Pure Energy's early '80s  disco power play - 'Love Game'. With a distinctive South African synth bass and  killer keys combo, Luke explains the original has this \"bonkers alchemy of heavy  machine soul, uptempo rawness and a majestic disco evangelism\", making it ripe  for a re-edit.     On the B side, Lionel Pillay's Jazz dancer 'Plum'. \"The original was a relentless 18-  minute raw jam\", Luke states, \"which despite its late '70s South African origin  kinda reminded me of a 1986 Chicago piano House record\".     \"These edits strip the tracks back and rebuild them, giving them more sonic  weight with that looped up drum jacking militancy from the days of Chicago,  combined with a boosted sense of transcendental, psychedelic, cosmic disco.  They have always had such an explosive reaction on so many dancefloors  including the heavier electronic club, so it felt only right to reshare them\".\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black 12\"","offer_id":50401412907339,"sku":"2178547","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/image002_a9a46aaf_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726521999"},{"product_id":"afro-desia-3","title":"Afro-Desia","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe second in the Mr Bongo series opening the vault on classic recordings from the fabled Groove Merchant Records catalogue. This time the spotlight turns to the Hammond B3 organ maestro Lonnie Smith, as we proudly present a reissue of his cosmic jazz-funk journey, \u003ci\u003eAfro-Desia\u003c\/i\u003e. Originally released in 1975, this much-loved album was produced by Groove Merchant label owner Sonny Lester and features the mysterious 'Compliments Of A Friend' on guitar. Considering Smith was part of George Benson's quartet in the '60s, that not so discreet veil appears to have been lifted on who this 'friend' might be. However, presumably due to contractual reasons, Benson had to remain covert for this recording. The lineup doesn't stop there though, with the likes of legendary bassist Ron Carter and Grammy award winning saxophonist Joe Lavano joining the outfit.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50402100609355,"sku":"2176100","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50402099560779,"sku":"2176099","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/eaf17c6d-576a-4d62-9610-1b0f2dbd431e_c22c9842_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726532075"},{"product_id":"flor-lilas","title":"Flor Lilas","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginally issued on Som Livre Records in Brazil in 1972, this rarity has long been lost to only but the most hardened Brazilian record collectors and those lucky few who own an original copy. The four genre-defying compositions blend elements of psychedelic rock, MPB and folk, and are glued together by the synergy of Luli and Lucinha's vocals and the outstanding arrangements by Zé Rodrix. Whether it be the lost Brazilian-psych anthem of \u003ci\u003eFlor Lilás\u003c\/i\u003e, or the tripped out folk-funk of \u003ci\u003eDourado Da Manhã\u003c\/i\u003e, the EP oozes magic and brilliance. The record also features the Brazilian percussionist, Alyrio Lima, who later became a member of the iconic Weather Report.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLuli (Heloisa Orosco Borges da Fonseca) and Lucinha's (Lucia Helena Carvalho e Silva) records have become extremely sought-after in recent years. Their inclusion on John Gómez's superb 2017 'Outro Tempo' compilation helped spread the gospel about their beautiful folky, MPB, private press albums from the late '70s and '80s. Prior to their musical partnership back in 1965, Luli released a heavenly Bossa Nova 7\" nugget entailed 'Baleiro' and a self-titled solo album on Philips Records, which are now also highly-prized by collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black | 7\" - 1117569","offer_id":50402263859531,"sku":"1117569","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/77515323-b5bf-4da3-9e54-ada30c8cf68d_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726537606"},{"product_id":"did-you-give-the-world-some-love-today-baby","title":"Did You Give The World Some Love Today Baby","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginally released on EMI Sweden, original copies of this album still change hands in excess of $500. This was Doris’ jazz album though it contains more than a hint of Joni Mitchell, Led Zeppelin, and the like.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBacked by her husband \u003cstrong\u003eLukas Lindholm\u003c\/strong\u003e on bass, she was able to lay down some seriously funky bass lines on tracks like \"\u003cem\u003eDon't\u003c\/em\u003e\" and \"\u003cem\u003eBeatmaker\u003c\/em\u003e\". 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It feels relaxed yet self-assured, with a kaleidoscope of sounds that twist together in a mesmerising fashion.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e The theme of the album developed naturally through the lyrics Paul began writing. A creative process both plagued and fed by insomnia, nourished by relationships, entwined in emotions, nights out, nights in and the after-effects on the human condition. Relatable themes yet seen through the prism of a soundscape that takes in many a different culture and scene. From acid folk to psych-funk, Francophile elements to Anatolian and Eastern inspirations, all interlocking and rotating as one.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Drawing inspiration from those he admires, Colours \u0026amp; Light radiates with collaborations. The title track, which tips its hat to a live 1973 TV version of Pentangle's 'Wedding Dress', features the folk rock, guitar brilliance of Jack Sharp from Wolf People\/Large Plants. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eElsewhere, two tracks are blessed by the sultry, smokey French vocals of Gloria's Wendy Martinez, 'Extra Nuit' and 'Entre chien et loup'. The former echoes Paul's love of classic French psych-pop from the late '60s and early '70s and artists such as Laurance Vanay, Calcium, Leonie, and Serge Gainsbourg. Martinez's sublime vocal work nestles perfectly within Paul's psych-folk-funk productions, as her Gloria partner, Alexis Morel (aka Kid Victrola) sprinkles a dose of entrancing guitar line magic on proceedings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e The list of collaborations extends further with Raz and Markey Funk, drummer Tony Coote and percussionist Paul Elliott all featuring. Regular collaborator and underground icon Barrie Cadogan (Little Barrie) returns along with Bert Page from The Cromagnon Band, who between them provide a hit of whacked-out, fuzzed-up country guitar and Moog madness respectively on 'Lost In The Woods (Bacchanal)'. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRounding off the record Paul's daughter, Olivia Osborne, supplies the keyboard intro on the penultimate track 'Twilight'. Dorian Conway from The Soundcarriers (whose bandmate Paul Isherwood returns on mixing duties) then layers echoing heavy flute parts to magically capture the psychedelic sunrise images brought to mind. Balancing light and shade on this record, there is beauty and tension all wrapped up in Paul's vivid and visceral, storytelling gift. A majestic album, bringing together the worlds of folk rock, psych soundtracks and hazy cinematic funk. The follow up to 2022's critically acclaimed debut album, The Children Of Scorpio.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"LP - Magenta","offer_id":50402489172299,"sku":"2177580","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50402489073995,"sku":"2177579","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50402488975691,"sku":"2177578","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/295a4bdc-fa1d-4778-b78e-bdacfd36cfa1_232204ef_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726547072"},{"product_id":"celia-2","title":"Celia","description":"\u003cp\u003eLegendary 1972 album from Celia, arranged by Arthur Verocai. Celia Regina Cruz recorded four self-titled albums for Continental between 1971 and 1977, 'Amor' in 1982 plus several more before she sadly passed away late in 2017. Celia was a Brazilian vocalist who worked frequently with master arranger-composer Arthur Verocai in her early years and many other heavyweights over the course of her extensive career.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis, her second self-titled LP from 1972, features an all-star line up including Arthur Verocai, Erasmo Carlos, Roberto Carlos, Marcos Valle, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Nonato Buzar and Vinicius de Moraes amongst others. Celia's version of 'Na Boca do Sol' ? taken from this album ? is arguably her most well-known and well-loved song. An incredible take on Verocai's original, featuring waling fuzz guitars, strings, piano, horns and drums. Needless to say clean, original versions of this record now change hands for silly money!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50403483681099,"sku":"1036346","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/43a67da5-80fd-438e-b273-0f244b67d226_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726561278"},{"product_id":"carolina-lrs-2021","title":"Carolina (LRS 2021)","description":"\u003cp\u003eTo celebrate the Love Record Stores event Mr Bongo have created a special edition of the album. Pressed on clear vinyl, this single LP collectors’ item features their favourite tracks from the original album. \u003ci\u003eCarolina\u003c\/i\u003e is the Brazilian virtuoso Seu Jorge's debut full-length album from 2002. Originally released under the title ‘Samba Esporte Fino’, its release and subsequent international acclaim dovetailed with Seu Jorge’s ascent into movie stardom. He is probably best known outside of Brazil for his work on Wes Anderson’s 2004 film 'The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou’, in which he played a starring role and his Portuguese covers of David Bowie records were a highlight of the soundtrack. Having initially found fame thanks to his standout performance as Knockout Ned in the revered movie ‘City of God’. \u003ci\u003eCarolina\u003c\/i\u003e would cement his global fame and launch an illustrious musical career that has earnt him a Grammy nomination. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCo-produced by Mario Caldatto of Beastie Boys and Planet Hemp fame, the album presented a vibrant, contemporary combination of samba and funk, backed by guitar, bass, drums, percussion, and horns. It kicks off with one of Seu's most loved tracks 'Carolina', an anthemic feel-good classic with timeless energy, ending in a sing-along crescendo. 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He started by recording Grande Liquidacao, a hyperactive pop album backed up by two incredible psychedelic rockbands: Os Brazoes and Os Versateis.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTom Zé's material on this album includes traditional Brazilian Tropicalia laced with crazy vocal melodies and samples a multitude of genres from funk to psychedelic rock and bossa nova creating in the process a sort of unheard pop exotica. This is especially apparent on the track “Gloria” with its changing tempos, bubbling instrumentation and off-the-wall harmonies. The pace of the album, considering it was the 60’s, is brutal so Zé takes a break between songs to address the listener before resuming his zigzag trajectory. The album also includes the fantastic “Parque Industrial” which was later recorded by Gal Costa, Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso on the Tropicalia: Panis et Circenses album.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTom Zé was also arguably the creator of the first sampler. In the mid 1980's David Byrne pulled one of his albums out of the samba section of a Rio de Janeiro record store which led him to bringing Zé to worldwide attention by releasing numerous albums on the Luaka Bop label.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50407920468299,"sku":"343755","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50407921189195,"sku":"343754","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/6c63ec36-5f99-47e6-9382-4994556ef310_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726601285"},{"product_id":"hidden-conversations-2","title":"Hidden Conversations","description":"\u003cp\u003e​\u003ci\u003eHidden Conversations\u003c\/i\u003e is the follow up to Terry Callier’s critically acclaimed \u003ci\u003eLookin' Out\u003c\/i\u003e album. 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They also complement, enrich, and fit perfectly with the flow and journey of the compilation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe hope you will enjoy this selection of seventeen eclectic songs (in tempo and style) as much as we do, whether they make you move your feet, take you on a trip somewhere, or trigger a happy memory.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTracklist:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Modern Tropical Quintet\u003c\/em\u003e – \"\u003cem\u003eMidnight in Moscow\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eJames Reese and The Progressions\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eThrowing Stones\u003c\/em\u003e\" (Kenny Dope Mix)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCindy \u0026amp; The Playmates\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eDon’t Stop This Train\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCarnival\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eEyes Growing Wider\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAzwon\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eParadise Island\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCarlos Puebla And Santiago Martinez And Pedro Sosa\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eSun Sun Damba E\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePepe Sanchez\u003c\/strong\u003e – \"\u003cem\u003eSentimiento\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDJ Format \u0026amp; The Simon Sound\u003c\/strong\u003e – \"\u003cem\u003eThe Peruvian\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHamlet Minassian\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eAl Elnim\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIdrissa Soumaoro, L´Eclipse De L´ I.J.A.\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eNissodia\u003c\/em\u003e\" (Mike D Remix)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTeaspoon Ndelu\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eSputla\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe Mombassa Vikings\u003c\/strong\u003e – \"\u003cem\u003eMama Matotoya\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLincoln\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eAmanhã O Tempo Muda\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDon Ricardo\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eSonho Lindo\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eZé Roberto\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eLotus 72 D\u003c\/em\u003e\" (Fast)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWax Machine\u003c\/strong\u003e - \"\u003cem\u003eExtralude\u003c\/em\u003e\" (Wyndham Earl's More Than-An-Interlude Remix)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMatty\u003c\/strong\u003e – \"\u003cem\u003eSelfportrait\u003c\/em\u003e\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"2LP - Black","offer_id":50409024192843,"sku":"1107167","price":21.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2LP - Pink","offer_id":50409023603019,"sku":"1107168","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50409025077579,"sku":"1107166","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/cbe7e5ce-b856-4cdf-bdf8-111ba0212f23_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726609618"},{"product_id":"as-palavras-vol-1-and-2","title":"As Palavras Vol. 1 and 2","description":"\u003cp\u003eSome albums are game-changers in a genre.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Take OutKast's Speakerboxxx \/ The Love Below or Primal Scream's Screamadelica, they observe, study, and then flip what an album can mean to a genre or moment in time. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrom the very first listen of Rubel's Latin Grammy- nominated third album As Palavras, Vol. 1 \u0026amp; 2, you can feel its transformative force for the MPB genre. Here we see one of Rio's brightest stars, fusing the contemporary with the classic, soaking up the richness of Brazil's musical heritage. The result is a marauding 20- track epic, incorporating traditional styles such as forro, MPB, pagode and samba with modern baile funk, rasteirinha and hip-hop. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe album exudes a sense of freedom and creativity, playfully and provocatively juggling the familiar with the forward-thinking. The tracks are divided across two records, navigating feelings of love, heartbreak and discovery, whilst balancing themes of violence, passion, irony and affection. Collaborating with some of the country's most esteemed artists such as Gabriel do Borel, Liniker, Luedji Luna, Tim Bernardes and Ana Caetano, Rubel takes this fusion of styles, subjects and favours to the global stage. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe grand, forro-blending, choral opener, 'Forro Violento (Instrumental)' sets the tone for the album, with references and links between tradition and modernity everywhere to be seen. From the Ana Frango Eletrico produced, funk flexing, samba-soul brilliance of 'Nao Vou Reclamar de Deus', to the album's title cut 'As Palavras', in collaboration with Tim Bernardes, that melds MPB influences with electronic elements and hip-hop touches. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAcross both sides of the album, Rubel's story-telling gift is given space to shine. 'Torto Arado' featuring Liniker and Luedji Luna, beautifully references the racial injustice, tragedy, hope and ambition found in one the most celebrated Brazilian novels of recent times by Itamar Vieira Junior. Elsewhere, 'Na Mao do Palhaco' manifests a satirical march about a suicidal conservative middle-aged man, who is rescued by the miracle of the carnival. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt times the album is gentle and intimate with tracks like 'Toda Beleza' featuring Bala Desejo, or the ode to friendship 'Lua de Garrafa', composed with the legendary Milton Nascimento. At others, the grooves hit harder, with sounds from the favelas laced within. 'Put@ria!', explores the universe of baile funk, with BK' and MC Carol trading off on the mic, as 'Rubelia' moves between reggaeton, funk, and hip hop. The latter is a tribute to a key influence of the album, Spanish star Rosalia and her parallel mix of current with classic. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUltimately though the beauty of this album lies in its concept. 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Di Melo's self-titled debut album has long been collectible for its irresistible Brazilian-funk sound, pleasing the Brazilian, B-Boy breaks, funk collectors, and sample hunters alike. With original copies for the album now fetching crazy sums, we felt these tracks needed another moment in the sun for all to enjoy. For this release we have selected two of our favorite cuts from this cult album, \u003ci\u003eKilariô \u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003ePernalonga\u003c\/i\u003e. Coincidentally these two gems were released on Odeon Records in 1975 as a rare promo campacto (a Brazilian 7\", which plays at 33rpm). \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eKilariô \u003c\/i\u003eis a pure Brazilian-soul classic. 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Featuring some elite session players of the time, including Steve Gadd on drums, guitarist Lance Quinn and bassist Bob Babbitt , the album is tied together expertly by songwriter, arranger and conductor Brad Baker. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt's worth the price tag alone for the superb disco-funk nugget 'Funk Reaction'. Other highlights include the only Lonnie Smith penned track on the album 'All In My Mind', that shines with a beautiful Stevie Wonder-esque quality and the slick guitar- led foater 'When The Night Is Right', written by and featuring guitarist Richie Hohenburger. 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A spiritual, deep and textured jazz record, tipping its hat to greats from the past, capturing memories and reformulating them into new ideas with the help of some of Melbourne's finest talent.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Expert keys player for the likes of 30\/70 and Elle Shimada, alongside one-half of Close Counters, this debut LP was Finn's conscious departure from the realm of groove-based jazz. Instead, \u003ci\u003eDawn Is A Melody\u003c\/i\u003e places the piano and arrangements centre stage, giving Finn and his fellow Melbourne crew freedom to explore the spaces in between, new emotions and alternate soundscapes. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn Finn's own words: \"My intention with \u003ci\u003eDawn Is A Melody\u003c\/i\u003e was to create a world; a microcosm of colour. Something rich and beautiful that allowed the melodies and compositions to reach their full potential. It was driven by hope, curiosity and the search for beauty and reassurance in this ever-changing world. The emotion behind the music is really about the journey of life, growing up and changing, as well as my relationship with Tasmania's natural landscapes where I grew up, a part of the world that is incredibly unique and beautiful.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e The album arcs between opening, middle and end. Beginning with the optimism of 'Looking Up' and 'Lagoon', the former a celestial, string and harp marbled slice of positivity, the latter a spiritual journey of exuberance and hope, Finn's fingers dancing across the '70s Yamaha grand piano. From there the songs blossom outwards with the cinematic soulful journey of 'It's Behind Me Now' and Brazilian-inspired 'Expansion', as the divine 'Crossing' signals a transition to a new realm. 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A record that forever keeps you guessing, powered by an exemplary orchestra at the top of their game. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCuban composer and singer Raul Gomez is most known for featuring in the groups Mirtha Y Raul and Los Bucaneros alongside producing the Cuban classic Los Reyes 73 album, amongst a whole host of other incredible productions over the years. Released on Cuba's state-owned label Areito, Instrumental sees Gomez not only as an instrumentalist and author, but also as a producer and arranger. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt's an album that deftly evades pigeonholing. Floating between instrumental mood music and library\/soundtrack mastery, followed by explosions of cosmic- Latin funk, psych guitar workouts and compositions that refect the orchestrated disco coming out of the US at the time, from greats such as Love Unlimited or MFSB. Lace that together with a healthy serving of Afro-Cuban magic to underpin the tracks and it's a recipe for a record that captivates from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Predominantly an instrumental album as the title suggests, the record showcases the Orquesta EGREM in full flow, soaring strings and vibrant horns at every turn. Highlights include 'Mi Samba Carnaval' with its breathtaking drum break, bubbling synths and sublime arrangements and the romantic film music impressions of 'Tema De La Sierra', that have been a sampling source for many a producer. Elsewhere, '6 Son' is a mind- melding psych guitar powerhouse, with 'Dacapo', written by Gilberto Peralta, offering up a slice of atmospheric and energetic Latin shuffle. One of only a handful of tracks where scat vocals compliment the orchestral tones, a Brazilian percussion theme marries with dancefloor sensibilities for a dose of feel-good, brilliance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e A wide-ranging, multi-dimensional release, Instrumental exhibits musicianship, composition and creativity at its finest and demonstrates another key example of the rich output of music that flowed from the island of Cuba post-revolution.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50422577103179,"sku":"2193425","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50422578086219,"sku":"2193426","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/image003_448384d1_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726764974"},{"product_id":"luke-una-presents-e-soul-cultura","title":"Luke Una Presents E Soul Cultura","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith some of the best DJs and selectors, there is a certain mysterious sound or underlying feeling that unites the music they play, regardless of genre, year, or tempo. \u003cstrong\u003eLuke Una\u003c\/strong\u003e is a master of telling a story through music, and this compilation is a perfect example of his musical alchemy in action. Featuring tracks from \u003cem\u003eYusef Lateef\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eAirto Moreira\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eCrooked Man\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eHenri Texier\u003c\/em\u003e, and many more, it is a collection of new, old, rare, and under-discovered music from around the world, all united by Luke under the banner of E-Soul Cultura.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. \u003cem\u003eRobson Jorge \u0026amp; Lincoln Olivetti\u003c\/em\u003e – \"Eva\" 2. \u003cem\u003eChene Noir\u003c\/em\u003e - \"Le Train\" 3. \u003cem\u003eMetropolis\u003c\/em\u003e - \"Every Time I See Him\" 4. \u003cem\u003eThe Brand New Heavies\u003c\/em\u003e Featuring \u003cem\u003eN'Dea Davenport\u003c\/em\u003e – \"Stay This Way\" (The Lunar Dub) 5. \u003cem\u003eTypesun\u003c\/em\u003e - \"The P.L.\" (Extended Edit) 6. \u003cem\u003eKing Errisson\u003c\/em\u003e - \"Space Queen\" 7. \u003cem\u003eYusef Lateef\u003c\/em\u003e - \"Robot Man\" 8. \u003cem\u003eDaniel Humair\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eFrancois Jeanneau\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eHenri Texier\u003c\/em\u003e - \"Le Cyclope\" 9. \u003cem\u003eAirto Moreira\u003c\/em\u003e - \"O Galho Da Roseira\" (The Branches Of The Rose Tree) 10. \u003cem\u003eFrancisco\u003c\/em\u003e – \"Wache\" 11. \u003cem\u003eNar'Chiveol\u003c\/em\u003e - \"Apocalypse Now Ho\" 12. \u003cem\u003eOn\u003c\/em\u003e - \"Southern Freeez\" 13. \u003cem\u003eSoylent Green\u003c\/em\u003e - \"After All\"\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mr Bongo","offers":[{"title":"2LP - Orange","offer_id":50424683987275,"sku":"1169548","price":32.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2LP - Black","offer_id":50424679891275,"sku":"1145601","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50424680579403,"sku":"1145600","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/5734f5d0-4bee-47ea-8683-bf1028ba9056_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726781431"},{"product_id":"algo-nuevo","title":"Algo Nuevo","description":"\u003cp\u003eNext up in the Mr Bongo Cuban Classics series is an outing by the mighty Juan Pablo Torres from 1978.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Released on Cuba's state-owned Areito imprint , Algo Nuevo showcases trombonist, bandleader, arranger and producer Juan Pablo Torres' unique scope of sound. A melting pot of an album that weaves together jazz- funk and traditional Afro- Cuban genres with tripped- out synth touches and dancefloor grooves. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe opener 'Pan Caliente' is a fiery celebration, combining a driving groove with Latin percussion, feverish horns and infectious \"la- la- la\" vocals. The wild, squelching cosmic synthlines give an otherworldly touch to proceedings that sit nicely on a modern dancefloor. 'Guajira 2001' is perhaps Juan's future-focussed take on the vibrant style of Cuban dance-led music called guajira . Blistering bongos, congas and claves moving together with trumpets, trombones and twanging acoustic guitars that you can't help but bounce to. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOther highlights include, 'Cacao', a Cuban cosmic funk strutter that places the claves upfront, with a scatting vocal line and percussive climax reminiscent of George Kranz electronic disco anthem 'Din Daa Daa' from 1983. Elsewhere, 'Elvira' further showcases the psychedelic essence of many of the album's tracks. A deep Latin workout where tasty percussive breaks and scorching keys blend with trippy vocals and rumbling synths. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA varied album encompassing a variety of Afro- Cuban genres and rhythms entwined with fashes of mind-bending cosmic influence. 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State censorship was at play, but professional musicians were on the government payroll which gave them an artistic freedom. Experimentation emanated in the '70s and '80s and Super Son is a prime example of that. 'Y Que Bien' kicks off the album taking you down a tripped-out, cosmic rabbithole, psych guitars and skat vocals opening up into a joyful funk groove laced with jazzy Afro-Cuban horns stabs. Tracks such as 'Pastel En Descarga' seem to come out of nowhere and are completely unique. Fuzzed- up guitar lines and percussion lay the groundwork, with those jubilant horns adding to the energy of this forever building track.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Elsewhere, there's the '70s TV theme-tune feeling of 'Con Aji Guaguao', a playful funk number that boils and bubbles with blistering trombone playing by Torres. Or 'Son A Propulsion' and 'Son Riendo', two more brilliant examples of psychedelic funk, wrapped up in a blanket of Afro-Cuban rhythms. The former sweeping you up in rushes of wind as trumpets, trombones and distorted guitars trade off, the latter, an intergalactic festa of tradition and exploration. Super Son is up there as one of the funkiest Cuban records around, a playful fusion of ideas from a producer, player and group on fine form and, for us, one of our favourite gems to come out of Cuba in this period. 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A unique musical fusion that encompasses Latin rock, funk, soul, disco and Afro-Cuban rhythms to form a diverse and alluring album.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eexquisite, funk-fuelled opener\u003c\/strong\u003e, 'Muevete Con Las Fuerzas Del Corazon', is maybe the most-known song on the album. It is a super catchy cut powered by a dynamite bassline, joy-filled horn playing and splashes of drum breaks that will \u003cstrong\u003eignite any dancefloor.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe record surfs through genres as it progresses. 'Di Tu Que Haras Sin Mi' and 'Paso Sin Mas' lean back with a \u003cstrong\u003eWest Latin rock \/ AOR\u003c\/strong\u003e flavour to their grooves. Elsewhere, the dreamy, cosmic, \u003cstrong\u003eBalearic-tinged \u003c\/strong\u003e'El Blue' and fuzzy funk-rock breaks of 'Pero Lo Cierto Es Que No Quise Mas' further show the breadth of styles at play on the LP. 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