Shape Of My Sound

YOUN SUN NAH REMIXED OUT NOW !!!

2012-02-16T14:17:00.002+01:00

"Same Girl ? Youn Sun Nah Remixed" is now available

on Paris Jazz Corner website.

This EP, produced by Blanka, Dav***K & Franko,

contains 5 remixes of Youn Sun Nah "Same Girl" album.

http://www.parisjazzcorner.com/dis_fiche.php?ArtNum=103589

Four Tet loves MoMa

2012-01-09T16:26:00.000+01:00

He had a great 2011 year with Burial, Thom Yorke, Fabriclive comp...
Kerian Hebden aka Four Tet is ready for 2012 with this new track called "MoMa" (The Museum of Modern Art).
An extract from Blonde Redhead's Japan benefit record We Are The Works In Progress out, January 10, 2012. The comp also features Deerhunter, Karin Andersson of the Knife/Fever Ray, John Maus, Pantha du Prince, Interpol, Broadcast, Terry Riley, Liars, and David Sylvian/Ryuichi Sakamoto.

Four Tet - Moma by Four Tet

The brand new Raekwon's mixtape

2012-01-04T12:24:00.000+01:00

Raekwon celebrates 2012 with "Unexpected Victory"...

I wish you an Happy New Year !!!

Merry Xmas !

2011-12-20T15:38:00.000+01:00

Lou Rawls bring you a first Xmas present...

The excellent face B of this 1967' album

Listen to "Christmas Will Really Be Christmas"

Shape Of My 2011

2011-12-07T13:15:00.001+01:00

As Sinatra sang, it was a very good year !
But 2011 was certainly not a "crooner-year" for me.

Look, here is my shape of 2011, in disorder :

James Blake

Who is this UFO ? It was his first album, the best of 2011 for me.

I saw his concert at the Montreux Jazz Festival this summer and it confirmed his "new talent" status.
"The Wilhelm Scream !"

Charles Bradley warmed my soul with his album

"No Time For Dreaming".

The backing band is the great Menahan Street Band.

Listen to the first track "The World"

One of my favorite producers ever, Pantha Du Prince, came back with the remixed versions of his last album "Black Noise"... I particularly liked Efdemin version of "Stick To My Side"

SBTRKT and his mysterious mask brought us a perfect electro-pop,

check out this tune "Right Thing To Do"
featuring Jessie Ware and Sampha.

After "Passed Me By",
Andy Stott surprised me again
with "We Stay Together"...

Hard, but soulful !

Ghostpoet also, with his rap on UK dub-electro instrumentals.
Check "Us Against Whatever Ever"

Thom Yorke released a new Radiohead album.
But I mostly remember his collaboration
with Burial and Four Tet on Text records.

It was "EGO"

On September, Zomby came with "Dedication",
my favorite "back to school" album.

Listen to "Natalia's Song"

Finally, 2011 was a sad year.

We lost the Father, Gil Scott-Heron RIP.

He released "We're New Here" this year, remixes of his last album "I'm New Here",
featuring Jamie XX, another great figure of 2011.
Listen to "NY Is Killing Me"

GIL SCOTT-HERON : 1949 - 2011

CHARLES BRADLEY X NEIL YOUNG

2011-09-24T16:26:00.001+02:00

Neil Young "Harvest" is one of my favorite albums ever !

Charles Bradley recently did a cover of "Heart Of Gold" with the Menahan Street Band.

A great soul version of a legendary folk standard

CINEMATIC X BUDDY RICH X FOURTET

2011-09-21T18:32:00.003+02:00

The Cinematic Orchestra always transports me so far.

Loud vibrations, a lot of melancholy, something dark but beautiful.

Please remembner their track Channel One Suite...

Sample of drummer Buddy Rich "Channel One Suite"
(check the video at 2'46)

And remixed by the inimitable Fourtet !

Three masterpieces, three visions, one spirit : GOOD MUSIC !

ANDY STOTT - DARK DETAILS

2011-09-15T17:06:00.005+02:00

This track is available on "Passed Me By", the last album signed Andy Stott, Manchester-based techno producer.
But his new productions are minimal and noisy... I like them !
Far from the exuberance of dance music,
he gives a sense to darkness, and its details :
UK has definitely entered another age.

Click here to play

BILAL - ROBOTS (Hazeem remix)

2011-05-13T18:57:00.010+02:00

Check this video made by Mikael Colombu, on Bilal "Robots", remixed by Hazeem.
Nice and aware... Isn't it ?

FOUR TET - NOTHING TO SEE

2011-05-12T13:04:00.000+02:00

("Future Bass", Soul Jazz Records, 2010)

Future Bass... A great trip in best futurist UK productions.
Soul Jazz Records releases this new electro/dubstep compilation with Ramadanman, Coki, Mala, and Four Tet, who always give his own touch...

Listen to Four Tet "Nothing To See"

GURU R.I.P

2011-02-11T16:54:00.004+01:00

Unforgettable voice of hip-hop, Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal Rest In Peace.
DJ Premier, his DJ in Gangstarr, posted this sound on his blog.
Group Home featuring GURU and smiley The Ghetto Child...
"Pay Attention"

Click here to play

GHOSTPOET IS COMING OUT

2011-02-09T12:02:00.003+01:00

After his very successful "The Sound Of Strangers" EP,
British MC Ghostpoet his back with his first album
"Peanut Butter Blues & Melancholy Jam" on Gilles Peterson's label.

Check the preview...

01. Run Run Run
02. Us Against Whatever Ever
03. Finished I Ain't
04. Longing For The Night
05. I Just Don't Know
06. Survive It
07. Gaaasp
08. Cash & Carry Me home
09. Garden Path
10. Liiines

Ghostpoet website
Brownswood website

BLUNDETTO REWORKED

2011-02-04T12:28:00.003+01:00

My man Blundetto released "Bad Bad Things"
one of the best 2010 albums
(Heavenly Sweetness Records).

The track "Mustang", recorded with Budos Band horns
has been remixed by the mysterious unknown Dav***k... Amazing !

Click here to play

CHARLES BRADLEY - LOVIN' YOU, BABY

2011-02-01T19:57:00.004+01:00

(No Time For Dreaming, Daptone, 2011)

62 years old and a perfect first album...
THE voice of soul, in the way of James Brown.
Featuring the incredible Menahan Street Band, lead by Tom Brenneck (Daptone, Dunham, Dap-Kings, Budos Band, etc.etc.)

Click here to play

PANTHA DU PRINCE - WELT AM DRAHT

2011-02-01T19:46:00.004+01:00

This is a remix by Animal Collective,
available on Pantha du Prince website...
God is coming on earth brothers !
Hear the priests voices...

Click here to play

FOUR TET & BURIAL - MOTH

2011-01-30T21:17:00.001+01:00

(12", Text Records, 2009)

Just a 12", black as the sun, without any information...
Four Tet & Burial, two electro masters and an incredible deep house club track !
I just try to find it for real now...

Click here to play

MATRIX - MIKE LONGO / DIZZY GILLESPIE

2011-01-30T17:00:00.000+01:00

This incredible tune was composed by the pianist Mike Longo.
Listen to his trio version, released on Mainstrem Records in 1972.
Mike Longo was also Dizzy Gillespie's pianist, who played on his "Matrix" version, recorded in 1970.
Two different versions... One great title !

Listen to Mike Longo's version

And the Dizzy Gillespie's version... Groovy grooooovy !

FRANK FOSTER - EW BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE

2011-01-29T17:26:00.000+01:00

("The Loud Minority", Mainstream Records, 1974)

Underground and spiritual saxophonist, sound of black power, 70's spirit... Frank Foster represent de loud minority ! An essential Mainstream's track.
Check the review of my man JC on Heavenly Sweetness Blog.

Listen to Frank Foster "EW Beautiful People"

SHAPE OF 2010

2010-12-27T12:37:00.000+01:00

Happy Fuckin' New Year !
Lil' selection "Best Of 2010"... And let's go for 2011 !

AFMB - BACKUP DAYS

2010-11-27T00:33:00.002+01:00

Just released on Drumpoet Community, this track is tooooo maaaaad !
It's the first 12" stroke of AFMB for this label, and I hope not the last.
Formerly known as A Forest Mighty Black (Compost Records), the Zürich based producer was in the 90's a central figure in the Trip Hop / NuJazz Scene.
"Backup Days" is perfect for the dancefloor... Are you ready to move your head and put your handz in the air ???

Listen to AFMB "Backup Days"

RODHAD ABOUT BLANK CLUB MIX

2010-11-26T03:21:00.000+01:00

rødhåd is for me one of the best DJs in Berlin, playing in famous clubs as Panorama Bar.
All his mixes make me craaazy, a selection of freaked electro-minimal productions.
He published last month a mix on the great SoundCloud website, a live recording from the leavesparty on 25th of September 2010 @ ://about blank club in Berlin.
Two hours of happiness...

rødhåd @ about blank 25092010 by rødhåd

EDDIE HOLMAN - FOUR WALLS

2010-11-25T15:10:00.002+01:00

("Lonely Girl", ABC Records, 1969)

What for an incredible voice ! Eddie Holman is best known for his hit "Hey There Lonely Girl", but this LP, and particularly "Four Walls" is just marvelous... Judge by yourself and click play.
I bought it last year in London and I rest shocked by this sound.

Listen to Eddie Holman "Four Walls"

BLACK VAN - THE CALLING

2010-11-24T15:00:00.002+01:00

("Moments Of Excellence", Permanent Vacation records, 2010)

Hot brand new 12" of Black Van, coming from Munich based label Permanent Vacation.
The DFA duo is back... KoweSix and Kris Menace present a deep house calling disco spirits !

Listen to Black Van "The Calling"

EMILE OMAR - DOMINO MIX

2010-11-23T23:37:00.007+01:00

One of the hottest parties in Paris :
Domino hosted by Emile Omar from Radio Nova...
Back again @ Point Ephémère this saturday !
Just listen to this mix and you'll be certain about
what eclecticism means !

Domino Mix 11.10 - Emile Omar by Emile Omar

AL GREEN - SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL

2010-11-11T20:46:00.008+01:00

("Im Still In Love With You", Hi Records, 1972)

A classic one, simply beautiful...

Listen to Al Green "Simply Beautiful"

MANU DIBANGO - NEW BELL

2010-11-05T18:10:00.004+01:00

Cameroun in da place ! Manu le Tout Puissant !
On his "Soul Makossa" classic records, you'll find this incredible funky beat called "New Bell".
Let's dance !

24-CARAT BLACK - POVERTY'S PARADISE

2010-11-04T19:28:00.004+01:00

("Ghetto, Misfortune's Wealth", 1973, Stax)

Sampled by RZA for "The Birth", this track figures on the first album of golden group 24-Carat Black. The bandleader, Dale Warren, is known for the chords arrangements on Isaac Hayes "Walk On By", but this "Poverty's Paradise" must be explored. It's a bit strange that Stax released this classic, 'cause it doesn' sound like Southern Soul. Anyway, just listen, see you on 7th sky !
Eveeeer since my birth, I've had no one to caaaaaare...

Listen to 24-Carat Black "Poverty's Paradise""

FRANKLIN DE COSTA - AUGUST 2010 MIX

2010-10-21T11:54:00.004+02:00

Dj coming from Berlin, Franklin De Costa play all around the world : NY, LA, Zürich, and some underground clubs in his city, as Tresor or Suicide Circus (incredible place).
I discovered him by the great berliner Rodhad (Der Rote)... This mix was made in August 2010, just a souvenir of summer... Minimal summer !

Franklin De Costa - August 2010 Mix by franklindecosta

EDWIN HAWKINS SINGERS - CHILDREN GET TOGETHER

2010-10-17T18:01:00.006+02:00

("Children (Get Together)", 1977, Buddah)

My man Blundetto remembered me this Edwin Hawkins album when he blogged an incredible Melanie's song (Lay Down), where Hawkins and his singers are the backing band.
Best known for his version of "Oh Happy Day", Edwin Hawkins released this LP in 1977.
And the title song, "Children" is an inspired and powerfull gospel song, who makes me crazy !
I think sound is better than words, so listen to this track.

Listen to Edwin Hawkins Singers "Children"

DOMINO @ POINT EPHEMERE

2010-10-17T17:42:00.005+02:00

Great party hosted by Emile Omar, DJ from the mythical Radio Nova, without any barriers or formated style.
The next one is on Satudray, October 30, 2010 @ Point FMR, Paris, France.
Meanwhile, discover a Domino Mix !

Listen to Emile Omar Domino Mix

DIZZY GILLESPIE - SWING LOW, SWEET CADILLAC

2010-10-05T21:42:00.004+02:00

(Gerardo Frisina Remix)

A classic tune by the great Dizzy remixed by Gerardo Frisina which appears on the compilation "Impulsive! Revolutionary Jazz Reworked"... A mix of generations : I hear house in Dizzy, and jazz roots in Frisina's sound, who's who ? No matter ! Just dance...

Listen to Dizzy Gillespie reworked by Gerardo Frisina

PORTICO QUARTET - THE FULL CATASTROPHE

2010-09-29T17:54:00.003+02:00

("Abbey Road EP01", unreleased !)

This quartet use a hang drum, confidential swiss instrument created by PANArt Compagny. More infos here.
The Portico Quartet play with it an hypnotic music, between jazz and electro, ambient and experimental as Steve Reich... Their album "Isla" on Peter Gabriel's record label, Real World is available, but I've for you an unreleased track !

Listen to Portico Quartet "The Full Catastrophe"

RUBY JOHNSON - IF I EVER NEEDED LOVE

2010-09-25T16:22:00.006+02:00

Another story of love, another beautiful voice, another Stax classic...

Ruby Johnson (1936-1999), a great RnB singer, had an incredible voice. I thought at first she was an man !
Coming from V-Tone Records, was signed on Stax/Volt in 1965 and released this song 2 years later, in 1967, with the house group of Booker T. As many songs in the 60s, it was just an EP with two titles, and Ruby Johnson never released a complete album.

Deeeeeep !

Listen to Ruby Johnson "If I Ever Needed Love"

CHRISTIAN SCOTT - LIKE THIS

2010-09-24T12:09:00.005+02:00

("Vibe This", 2007)

This unreleased tune is a killer, recorded at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 2006. It's part of a rare WWOZ New Orleans compilation, found by my great friend DAV*** "Lambron" K. Thanxxx.

Christian Scott is, for me, the best jazz trumpeter in da place today... He plays here with the beautiful Esperanza Spalding, his ex-girlfriend, and an all-star band.

Listen to Christian Scott "Like This"

EVE WHITE - ON THE MOVE

2010-09-22T18:44:00.004+02:00

(New You, 2008)

I'm so electro in this time... Back from Berlin with some LPs and new ideas in head.
This one is a track of german duo Eve White, formed in 2006.
Enjoy the binary beats generation !

CARIBOU - SUN

2010-08-27T12:46:00.002+02:00

The sound of the moment ! The return of Daniel Victor Snaith (aka Caribou), canadian electronic musician.
Just enjoy the sound like this creepy persons in the music video, and tell me how much crazy it made you... I'm mad since I heard it.

SUITE FOR MA DUKES

2010-07-18T23:09:00.005+02:00

Recorded in February 2009 @ The Luckman (Los Angeles), this suite is a tribute to James "Dilla" Yancey by Miguel Atwood-Ferguson
w/ 40 piece orchestra, hosted by Carlos Nino.
Wonderful reinterpretations of Dilla's compositions, from the hits to the obscure, with some guests on stage as Talib Kweli, Bilal, Illa J, Dwele, Common, AMP Fiddler...
After the EP released in 2009, Monchilla offer us today a DVD of the live in "Timeless" serie, many thanx.

DAVID RUFFIN - EACH DAY IS A LIFETIME

2010-06-09T17:58:00.005+02:00

("David", previously unreleased, 1971)

David Ruffin is an artist from Motown Records label... Arranged with grand strings, as the Motown 70's sound, this track open "David", his third solo album, unreleased disc of 1971.
Fortunately for us, the title was reissued by Hip-O-Select in 2004... Only 3500 copies, evidently immediately sould-out !
Waiting for a new edition, or find the LP (it's good to hope !!!), listen to "Each Day Is A Lifetime"... No doubt hearing Ruffin's voice !

Listen to David Ruffin "Each Day Is A Lifetime"

BILL EVANS - B MINOR WALTZ (for Ellaine)

2010-05-10T17:37:00.003+02:00

("You Must Believe In Spring", Warner Bros. Records, 1981)

Just a masterpiece of calm and pleasure, recorded in 1977, but published in 1981, one year after Bill Evan's death. Eddie Gomez is incredible, what for a sound !
The cover's a painting by Charles Burchfield called "Yearning"...
Enjoy spring time !

Bill Evans : piano
Eddie Gomez : bass
Eliot Zigmund : drums

Listen to Bill Evans "B Minor Waltz"

ATIS INDEPANDAN !

2010-04-27T23:44:00.008+02:00

("Ki Sa Pou-N Fe ?", Paredon Records, 1975)

Made in Haiti, for all brothers and sisters in pain... The first Black Republic, PEACE... God bless you !
I've recently discovered this INCREDIBLE disc, thanks to Bintou.
I heard to the LP, and it had been a real shock ! The great Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, nonprofit record label of the national museum of USA, reissued it on CD in 2009...
What a pleasure !!!

"Gade Mache Ti Peyi Mouin"

"Oun Jou Konsa"

"Kamarad"

ROBERT GLASPER - F.T.B.

2010-03-12T22:33:00.004+01:00

("In My Element", Blue Note Records, 2007)

Robert Glasper is, for me, one of the best new jazz pianist in the world. As Christian Scott, he has a large and great vision of jazz music. He really knows traditions, but plays jazz with some modern influences.
Glasper is, on the other hand, pianist for a lot of rappers in NYC, as Mos Def or Bilal, who are on his record "Double Booked" (2009).
First, check "F.T.B.", from his Blue Note album, and then, listen to the live version @ Red Cat... Mos Def in on stage, and rap the incredible "Thieves in the Night", from his album "Black Star" with Talib Kweli !

Robert Glasper : piano
Chris Dave : drums
Vicente Archer : bass

Listen to Robert Glasper "F.T.B"

RICKEY CALLOWAY - SHED A TEAR

2010-02-24T15:49:00.006+01:00

(Kay Dee Vol.2, Kay-Dee Records, 2008)

Thank you my man Blundetto for this one...
A beautiful track from 70's soul spirit, produced by Kenny Dope and Keb Darge, from second volume of Kay Dee Compilation (visit Kay-Dee Records website).
If you never heard Calloway's voice, just click quickly on the link !

Listen to Rickey Calloway "Shed A Tear"

ORNETTE COLEMAN - LONELY WOMAN

2010-02-14T21:49:00.005+01:00

("The Shape Of Jazz To Come", Atlantic, 1959)

1959 : what for a great jazz year ! John Coltrane's Giant Steps, Miles Davis Kind of Blue, and this essential masterpiece of free and modern jazz "The Shape Of Jazz To Come".
Ornette Coleman, more than 50 album as leader, an extraordinary alto saxophonist, always in activity...
This tune disturbs me, too dark but such luminous, too sad and so beautiful !

Ornette Coleman : alto sax
Don Cherry : cornet
Charlie Haden : bass
Billy Higgins : drums

Listen to Ornette Coleman "Lonely Woman"

JOZEF DUMOULIN + LIDLBOJ - LIDL BY LIDL

2010-01-28T21:40:00.004+01:00

("Trees are always right", Bee Jazz, 2009)

Jozef Dumoulin is a belgian jazz pianist, who play on a lot of projects in France, germany and Belgium (Magic Malik Orchestra, Octurn, etc.)
He's able to create a new sound, his own sound, with his keyboards, some effects and programmations. A mix of trip-hop, electro, experimental and jazz... Just a fascinating artist !

Jozef Dumoulin : keyboards, guitar, effects, programming
Lynn Cassiers : voice, toys, effects
Bo Van Der Werf : baritone saxophone, ewi, effects
Eric Thielemans : drums, toys, effects

Listen to Jozef Dumoulin "Lidl By Lidl"

ROLAND YOUNG - MAGENTA SKY

2010-01-28T21:25:00.006+01:00

("Isophonic Boogie Woogie", IS Music, 1980)

This album killed me ! Roland Young solo is unique, with an intensive deep groove, there is space in his music. Just remember that this sound is accessible to all who desire acces !

"Make youself small and you will be great. Know you are nothing and you will be infinite. At the very least, don't make such a big deal of yourself and you will be all that much closer to the truth."
Roland P. Young

Roland Young : electronic accountrements, soprano saxophone

Listen to Roland Young "Magenta Sky"

JUST A VISION...

2010-01-24T23:41:00.004+01:00

... In the night...

P.Soulages, Sans titre, 1946.

RAEKWON - CASABLANCA

2010-01-24T23:36:00.003+01:00

("Immobilarity", Loud Records, 1999)

Wu Taaaaaaaang !!! The Chef is in da place... Listen to this classic ! Brrrrrrrrraaaaaa !

Listen to Raekwon "Casablanca"

HUBERT LAWS - I HAD A DREAM

2010-01-24T23:09:00.005+01:00

("The Chicago Theme", CTI, 1975)

Between disco, funk and jazz, a part of this CTI album of flautist Hubert Laws was arranged by Bob James. Unfortunately, the tracks are a little bit now-dated grooves.
But "I Had A Dream" was arranged by Laws himself, joined by funky rhythm section... And it's so good !

Hubert Laws : flute
Don Grolnick : keyboards, piano solo & clavinet
Doug Bascomb : bass
Steve Gadd : drums

Listen to Hubert Laws "I Had A Dream"

RANDY WESTON - THE BEAUTY OF IT ALL

2010-01-24T22:50:00.006+01:00

("Saga", Polydor, 1995)

Randy Weston, pianist who never forgot his roots, has traveled all around Africa.
Friend of Thelonious Monk, he kept his influence.
This song is slow and so pretty, about the beauty of life and the whole spiritual process. The piece features my favourite saxophonist, Billy Harper... Remember him with this link !

Randy Weston : piano
Billy Harper : tenor sax
Alex Blake : bass
Billy Higgins : drums

Listen to Randy Weston "The Beauty Of It All"

ROLAND KIRK - SPIRITS UP ABOVE

2010-01-24T22:28:00.007+01:00

("Volunteered Slavery, Atlantic, 1969)

"We are all driven by an invisible whip. Some run, some have fun, some are hip, some tip, some dip, but we all must answer to the invisible whip." Rahsaan Roland Kirk, 1969
Did I say you that I was in a spiritual mood ?

Roland Kirk : tenor sax, flutes, vocals...
With The Roland Kirk Spirit Choir
Dick Griffin : trombone
Ron Burton : piano
Vernon Martin : bass
Sonny Brown : drums
Joe Habad texidor : tambourine

Listen to Roland Kirk "Spirits Up Above"

BOBBY HUTCHERSON - WHEN YOU'RE NEAR

2010-01-24T22:10:00.004+01:00

("Natural Illusions", Blue Note, 1972)

Take one of the best vibraphonist ever, three mainstays of CTI Records (Jack DeJohnette, Ron Carter & Hubert Laws), a beautiful orchestra and you've "Natural Illusions" !
How to choose a track ? I love all this album...
So, I give you a composition of our man, Bobby Hutcherson, a romantic ballad, "When You're Near".

Phil Bodner, Hubert Laws, Romeo Penque, Daniel Trimboli (woodwinds)
Gene Bianco (harp)
Bobby Hutcherson (vibraphone)
Hank Jones (piano)
Gene Bertoncini (guitar)
Ron Carter, George Duvivier (bass)
Jack DeJohnette (drums)
Wade Marcus (arranger)
Wade Marcus Orchestra (strings)

Listen to Bobby Hutcherson "When You're Near"

REFLECTION ETERNAL - GOOD MOURNING

2010-01-24T21:56:00.004+01:00

("Train Of Thought", Rawkus Records, 2000)

As Blackstar with Mos Def, Talib Kweli made a duo, Reflection Eternal, with DJ Hi Tek. In 2000, they released their first and only album called "Train Of Thought", a great piece of classic hip-hop. They record it with some guests as Mos Def, Xzibit and Les Nubians, but Talib Kweli is alone on "Good Mourning"...

Listen to Reflection Eternal "Good Mourning"

TRIBE - LIVIN' IN A NEW DAY

2009-12-19T16:08:00.005+01:00

("Rebirth", Planet E, 2009)

Since the 70's, Tribe is a cult record label. The collective, founded in Detroit by Phil Ranelin and Wendell Harrison, counts in its ranks Marcus Belgrave and Doug Hammond too. The first rebirth of Tribe was in fact in Carl Craig's album "Detroit Experiment" in 2003, with in particular "Taste of Tribe", "Space Odyssey" and a beautiful Belgrave's solo trumpet on a version of "Think Twice".
The 3 musicians come back in 2009 with their own album, Doug Hammond with them, and always produced by the golden electro DJ Carl Graig.
Feel the sound of Detroit !

Wendell Harrison : sax
Phil Ranelin : trombone
Marcus Belgrave : trumpet
Doug Hammond : drums

Listen to Tribe "Livin' In A New Day"

NINA SIMONE - DAMBALA

2009-12-19T15:31:00.003+01:00

("It Is Finished", RCA, 1974)

Nina Simone, her voice, her unique feeling, her civil engagement... She was a legend.
She recorded this album in 1974, the same year she left USA because of segregation.
"It Is Finished" is the kind of great jazz/soul crossover records that I love. The instrumentation, with sitar, harp, Spanish guitar, and other percussions is so interesting.
The album includes a nice version of "I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl", a soulful "Com' by H'Yere-Good Lord"... And "Dambala", recorded live at Philharmonic Hall in New York.

Nina Simone : vocals & piano
Avram Schakman : sitar
Nadi Qamar, Mama-Likembi, Tal Viha : Madagascar harp, Guinee Kuna

Listen to Nina Simone " Dambala"

HAROLD ALEXANDER - MAMA SOUL

2009-12-18T23:29:00.005+01:00

("Sunshine Man", Flying Dutchman, 1971)

Check this piece of flutist Harold Alexander. The great sound on the jazz-funk side of the force ! Melody is dancing, rythm is swinging, the groove is coming in your body... Move it baby !
"Sunshine Man" was produced by the renowned producer Bob Thiele, with his own record label Flying Dutchman. It's the first one of the three albums that "Black" Harold Alexander published under his own name.
His cries mixed with his perfect flute sound is for me enjoyable, not for you ?

Harold Alexander : flute
Neal Creque : electric piano
Richard Landrum : percussions
Richard Davis : bass
Pretty Purdie : drums

Listen to Harold Alexander "Mama Soul"

MARY LOU WILLIAMS - MISS D.D.

2009-12-18T23:09:00.010+01:00

("Black Crist Of The Andes", SABA, 1963)

At 7, Mary Lou Williams is famous as "Little Piano Girl".
Some years later, she's "First Lady of Jazz", extraordinary pianist, composer, arranger, who works with or for Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, Louis Armstrong, Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie...
She had recorded more than 100 albums before her death, in 1981. "Black Christ Of The Andes" is one of them, and contains "Miss D.D.", a musical jewelry !

Mary Lou Williams : piano
Theodore Cromwell : bass
George Chamble : drums

Listen to Mary Lou Williams "Miss D.D."

SUN RA - NUCLEAR WAR

2009-12-18T22:53:00.004+01:00

("Nuclear War", ATAVISTIC, 1982)

Sun Ra recorded "Nuclear War" in 1982, featuring a piano trio over playing smooth & swingin' jazz over which he "rap" lyrics with a lot of vulgarities. He thought he had a hit on his hands and went to Columbia Records. Of course, Columbia rejected it ! So an indie British label published it, originally a 12-inch single.
The title track is known as the best song ever recorded about the nuclear conflict.

"nuclear war / it's a motherfucker / don't you know /
if they push that button / your ass got to go"

Listen to Sun Ra "Nuclear War"

KEITH JARRETT - THE RICH (AND THE POOR)

2009-12-18T22:04:00.001+01:00

("Treasure Island", Impulse, 1974)

The pianist Keith Jarrett is the only musician able to make me cry ! His sound, his sensibility, his technique, all of him is fantastic... A real star !
On Impulse, Atlantic or ECM Records; solo, trio or other... He's just my favourite musician.
This track was composed by Jarrett, and features his 70's rythm section : Charlie Haden & Paul Motian. Listen to this soul groove, you can't not feel it...

Keith Jarrett : piano
Dewey Redman : tenor sax & tambourine
Charlie Haden : bass
Paul Motian : drums

Listen to Keith Jarrett "The Rich (And The Poor)"

GIL SCOTT-HERON - YOUR DADDY LOVES YOU

2009-12-15T23:45:00.006+01:00

("Winter In America", Strata-East, 1973)

This album is one of the Gil Scott-Heron's rarest LP. He recorded it with Brian Jackson (vocals, piano) for the Strata-East New York label (the only one of Scott-Heron for them).
It's a dark album mixing comments on every days of life with wider political issues, and contains one of his most famous songs "The Bottle" (about alcoholism).
On the other hand, you find "Your Daddy Loves You", a fantastic declaration of love dedicated to his own daughter Gia Louise.

Gil Scott-Heron : vocals & electric piano

Listen to Gil Scott-Heron "Your Daddy Loves You"

LLOYD MCNEILL - DIG WHERE DAT'S AT

2009-12-15T23:19:00.005+01:00

("Asha", Asha One, 1969)

All compositions, poem and jacket art of this album were made by Lloyd McNeill, in 1969.
He's a musician, painter, drawer, poet and photographer... A REAL artist, in fact ! Check his fabulous work on his website.
In the 60's, he moved to Paris, to escape the discrimination, which continue in spite of the Civil Rights Movement.
Between revolutionnary and spiritual jazz, Lloyd McNeill recorded a lot of very interesting tunes... This one is on the revolutionnary side.

Lloyd McNeill : piccolo & flute
Gene Rush : piano
Steve Novosel : bass
Eric Gravatt : percussion
Paul Hawkins : Latin percussion

Listen to Lloyd McNeill "Dig Where Dat's At"

FRANCO - SUITE LETTRE No. 1

2009-12-13T19:48:00.004+01:00

("Choc Choc Choc", CHOC, 1983)

François Luambo Makiadi, know simply as Franco, called the "James Brown" of Africa, is a giant of Congolese music ! During about 30 years, he had been one of the most influential pan-Africain musician, and a very popular figure (4 days of national mourning were declared when he died, October 12, 1989)
This tune features his incredible orchestra, the Tout-Puissant OK Jazz, and vocalists Tabu Ley Rochereau "Seigneur Ley" and Josky.
Dedicated to my bro' Patrick, peace for Zaire.

R.I.P GRAND MAITRE !

Listen to Franco & the TP OK Jazz "Suite Lettre No. 1"

Hip-Hop ain't dead...

2009-11-15T19:38:00.006+01:00

Look at this video of BET Hip-Hop Awards... The part 3 shows Mos Def, from NY, the always incredible rapper and singer, Black Thought, from Philadelphia and Eminem, our Detroit's man who never lost his fast and crazy flow ! DJ Premier on platinumz...

WILLIAM BELL - MY BABY SPECIALIZES (feat.Judy Clay)

2009-11-15T16:14:00.008+01:00

("Duets", Stax Records, 1968)

As long as I live, I'll love Southern Soul ! You should read "Sweet Soul Music", by Peter Guralnick, telling the story of this deep music.
William Bell, today productor, is the one who makes the sound of Stax Records, and then a part of Southern Soul music, in the early sixties. He recorded this album (not the best, but I like this song) in the late '60s, with partners Judy Clay, Carla Thomas, and Mavis Staples; the ones with Clay were the most successful, "My Baby Specializes" becoming modest R&B hits, composed by Mr.Isaac Hayes.

Listen to William Bell & Judy Clay "My Baby Specializes"

ROY AYERS - BRAND NEW FEELING

2009-10-18T21:38:00.005+02:00

("Virgin Ubiquity", Rapster/BBE, 2003)

The vibraphonist is one of the best musicians of the late 20th and 21st centuries, and maybe the reason why acid and nu-jazz exist.
After James Brown, he's the most sampled by hip-hop artists, including A Tribe Called Quest, Gangstarr (DJ Premier), Public Enemy, Masta Ace, Mos Def, MF Doom...
This track is comin' from a great compilation of Roy Ayers unreleased recordings between 1976 and 1981. The voices of divas Merry Clayton & Sylvia Cox are soulful... 9'50 of happiness !

Roy Ayers : vibra
Merry Clayton, Sylvia Cox : vocals
Justo Almario : sax
John Mosley : trumpet
William Allen : drums
Steve Cobb : bass

Listen to Roy Ayers "Brand New Feeling"

NECRO - I WANNA F**K

2009-10-01T21:27:00.006+02:00

("The Sexorcist", Psycho Logikal Records, 2005)

Be careful, this track contains sexually explicit sounds !
If you don't like Necro, don't listen to him. If you don't like hardcore, don't listen to this one.
There's the top of Death Rap, which speak about sex, death and ultra-violence !
Necro, Ill Bill's brother, is the master of this art coming from Brooklyn's streets...
His album "The Sexorcist", produced on his own record label, contains titles like "Vaginal Secretions", "I Degrade You", "Pu**y Is My Weakness" and my favourite : "I Wanna F**k" !
Enjoy !

Listen to Necro The Sexorcist "I Wanna F**k"

CELIA CRUZ & FANIA ALL STARS - QUIMBARA

2009-08-20T17:40:00.007+02:00

(Live in Kinshasa, Zaïre, 1974)

The Queen of Salsa was in Kinshasa in 1974 for the great soul festival Zaire '74, organized to go along with the boxing match Muhammad Ali vs George Foreman. Jeffrey Levy-Hinte film it and made a movie called "Soul Power" (June 2009), with James Brown, B.B.King, Miriam Makeba, Bill Withers and more.
Celia Cruz featured Fania All Stars, the dream team of the label Fania which included stars of salsa music from New York at that time.
Check this version of "Quimbara"... And let your feet moove !

The big goddamn mess on stage can't afford to identify all musicians...

Celia Cruz : vocals
Ray Barretto : congas
Bobby Valentín : bass
Johnny Pacheco : direction & flute
Larry Harlow : piano
Jorge Santana : electric guitar
Willie Colon : trombone
Pupi Lagarretta : violin
Nicky Marrero : timbales
Yomo Toro : cuatro
Roberto Roena : dance & percussions
...

Listen to Celia Cruz feat. Fania All Stars "Quimbara"

BRIAN BLADE & THE FELLOWSHIP BAND - STONER HILL

2009-08-19T18:06:00.004+02:00

("Season Of Changes", Verve, 2008)

Brian Blade is a drummer, bandleader of The Fellowship Band, who started as a sideman with Brad Mehldau, Kenny Garrett and Joshua Redman.
Today, he's on drums of Wayne Shorter's Quartet, respected like the best jazz quartet in the world at the moment.
He recorded also with popstars like Joni Mitchell, Norah Jones, and Bob Dylan...
Brian Blade started his concert in Montreal Jazz Festival 2009 (at the "Gesù") with this beautiful tune : Stoner Hill.

Brian Blade - drums
Jon Cowherd - piano
Chris Thomas - bass
Myron Walden - alto saxophone & bass clarinet
Melvin Butler - tenor & soprano saxophone
Kurt Rosenwinkel - guitar

Listen to Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band "Stoner Hill"

BOBBY HUTCHERSON - MONTARA (Bonus : Madlib Remix)

2009-06-13T12:09:00.006+02:00

("Montara", Blue Note, 1975)

Montara was written by the vibes and marimba player Bobby Hutcherson himself.

This album is, for Hutcherson, his full-blown entry into the world of Latin jazz, and marked histen-year anniversary as a Blue Note bandleader. The title track contains a crystal sound with flute and muted trumpets... And majestically solo of the marimba maestro !

The DJ/producer Madlib remix appears on "Blue Note Trip 5" by Jazzanova (2006).

Bobby Hutcherson : vibes, marimba

Oscar Brashear & Blue Mitchell : trumpets

Ernie Watts : flute

Eddie Cano : electric piano

Dave Troncoso : bass

Bobby Matos, Victor Pantoja, Johnny Palomo & Rudy Calzado : percussions

Listen to Bobby Hutcherson "Montara"

Listen to the remix of Madlib

FREDDIE HUBBARD - THE MELTING POT

2009-05-27T00:07:00.003+02:00

("Life Flight", Blue Note, 1987)

Freddie Hubbard is a very important jazz trumpeter, who started his leader career on Blue Note, in 1960.

I love Hubbard's sound... Certainly one of the most influencial of modern jazz.

He died December 29, 2008, but his albums are still with us, and this one is so good !

I just call it "the groove", isn't it ?

Freddie Hubbard : trumpet

Ralph Moore : sax

Larry Willis : piano

Rufus Reid : bass

Carl Allen : drums

Production by Michael Cuscuna for Blue Note Records.

Listen to Freddie Hubbard "The Melting Pot"

CHRISTIAN PROMMER - CAN YOU FEEL IT

2009-05-26T23:44:00.004+02:00

("Drum Lesson Vol.1", Sonar Kollektiv, 2008)

German drummer Christian Prommer is a member of Fauna Flash, Trüby Trio and Voom:Voom.

On this great album, he plays jazz acoustic versions of house and techno standards.

There is a "remake" of "Can You Feel It", tune by the DJ of Chicago Larry Heard aka Mr.Fingers, released on Trax Records (1985).

Soulfuuuuuul !!!

Listen to Christian Prommer "Can You Feel It"

BURIAL - ARCHANGEL

2009-05-09T17:04:00.012+02:00

("Untrue", Hyperdub Records, 2007)

Will Bevan, aka Burial, is a dubstep producer, from the south of London. He was in anonymity for a long time, without pictures or videos.

This beautiful track is an extract of his second release, called "Untrue". The BPM runs so fast, the strings cry their emotions, the pop sampled voice resounds in the darkness... then "Archangel" takes you in a deep world !

I never heard something like it before...

"Holding you, let it be alone…

Loving you, let it be alone…

Kissing you, tell me I belong…"

Listen to Burial "Archangel"

TOWER OF POWER - SOUL VACCINATION

2009-05-08T11:17:00.006+02:00

("Tower of Power", 1973, Warner Bros.)

Music is a medecine, you should take this soul vaccination !!!

On their third album, the funky group Tower of Power found their best lead singer, Lenny Williams. Accompanied by his explosive horn section, the Oakland-based band released his most successful album (the singles "So Very Hard To Go", "This Time It's Real" and "What Is Hip?" charted on the Billboard Hot 100).

I prefer "Soul Vaccination"...

Greg Adams : strings, trumpet, arranger, conductor, flugelhorn, horn, vocals
Brent Byars : bongos, congas
Emilio Castillo : tenor sax, vocals, composer
Bruce Conte : guitar, vocals
David Garibaldi : drums
Mic Gillette : trombone, trumpet, flugelhorn, horn and baritone horn, vocals
Stephen "Doc" Kupka : oboe, barytone sax, vocals, composer
Lenny Pickett : clarinet, flute, tenor sax, vocals
Francis "Rocco" Prestia : bass
Jay Spell : piano
Bruce Steinberg : harmonica, cover design
Chester Thompson : organ, keyboards, vocals
Lenny Williams : vocals

Listen to Tower of Power "Soul Vaccination"

DON CHERRY & LATIF KHAN - UNTITLED

2009-04-17T01:18:00.020+02:00

("Music/Sangam", Heavenly Sweetness, 2009)

The complete title of this track is "Untitled/Inspiration From Home (Dedicated To Maurice White)", composed by Don Cherry, who's a free jazz pioneer.

Martin Meissonier recorded him in Paris, in June 1978, with the indian tablas player Latif Khan, and the young french label Heavenly Sweetness reissue it this year : Thank you !!!

Don Cherry: trumpet, keyboards, gong, bamboo-flute, dousson'doni, vocal

Latif Khan: tablas

Listen to Don Cherry & Latif Khan "Untitled"

THE RH FACTOR - CRAZY RACE

2009-04-16T00:30:00.002+02:00

("Distractions", Verve, 2006)

Trumpeter Roy Hargrove issued two albums at the same time in 2006: "Nothing Serious", an acoustic hard-bop jazz album with his traditional quintet, and this one, electric, oriented jazz-funk-soul-hip-hop, with his project The RH Factor.

It's the second release for the group, after "Hard Groove" in 2003.

Take ya dose of old school funky vibe, this is a Crazy Race !

Roy Hargrove : trumpet, flugelhorn, production

Willie Jones III and Jason “JT” Thomas : drums
Lenny Stalworth and Reggie Washington : bass

Todd Parsnow : guitar
Charles McCambell and Bobby Sparks : keyboards
Renee Neufville : vocals and keyboard
Keith Anderson : sax

Special guest : David "Fathead" Newman : sax

Listen to The RH Factor "Crazy Race"

BILLY HARPER - LOVE ON THE SUDAN

2009-04-15T00:01:00.002+02:00

("Trying To Make Heaven My Home", MPS Records, 1979)

Considered one of the premier saxophonists of the post-Coltrane era, Billy Harper’s unique, with his soulful sound... Wonderful !!!

He served with Art Blakey's Messengers (1968-1970), the Thad Jones & Mel Lewis Orchestra (in the 1970s), Max Roach's band in the late '70s and Randy Weston's ensembles... Not bad !

This quintet recording on Magic Purple Sunshine Records is very, very rare, and is a fantastic piece of hard-bop jazz !

Billy Harper : tenor sax
Everett Hollins : trumpet
Armen Donelian : piano
Wayne Dockery : bass
Malcolm Pinson : drums

Listen to Billy Harper "Love On The Sudan"

ARTHUR BLYTHE - LENOX AVENUE BREAKDOWN

2009-04-14T00:01:00.005+02:00

("Basic Blythe", Columbia Records, 1987)

Arthur Blythe was part of The Underground Musicians and Artists Association (AACM of west coast) in the mid-60's. He played with Gil Evans, Lester Bowie, Jack DeJohnette, McCoy Tyner, etc.
"Lenox Avenue Breakdown", composition of the alto saxophonist, was released for the first time in 1979 (LP on Comlumbia), and reached the N° 35 position on the Billboard Jazz Albums Chart... It's a reference recording of modern jazz !

Check this remake, with his quartet and eight strings.

Arthur Blythe : alto sax

John Hicks : piano

Anthony Cox : bass

Bobby Battle : drums

Listen to Arthur Blythe "Lenox Avenue Breakdown"

ESTHER PHILLIPS - MAKIN' WHOOPEE

2009-04-13T00:01:00.004+02:00

("And I Love Him", Atlantic, 1965)

I love the voice of Esther Phillips !!! She started to sing on Savoy Records when she was 14 years old (Little Esther).

Between 1964 and 1970, she was on Atlantic label... The album "And I Love Him" was released in this period, and regrouped some love songs : "I Wish You Love", "The Girl From Ipanema", and "Makin' Whoopee", wrote by Walter Donaldson (music) and Gus Khan (lyrics).

Whoopee is an exclamation of joy and excitement... THIS IS HOT BABY !!!!!

Listen to Esther Phillips "Makin' Whoopee"

BRONX RIVER PARKWAY - DONDE

2009-04-10T01:17:00.006+02:00

("San Sebastian 152", Truth & Soul, 2008)

Bronx River Parkway is a group from Brooklyn, New York City, with the musicians of El Michels Affair, The Expressions and Menahan Street Band. They started to play together in 2002, while a jam session in the Soul Fire's studios.

Influenced by latin soul music, they make today a modern funky music, which don't forget the roots !

Sammy Ayala - vocals

Jose Parla - vocals
Chris Mendoza - vocals
Ernesto Abreu- timbales, congas, vocals
Quincy Bright - bass
Nick Movshon - drums
Leon Michels - saxophone, organ
Toby Pazner - rhodes, vibes
Aaron Johnson - trombone
Michael Leonhart - trumpet
Yoshi Takemasa - congas
Marcos Garcia - percussion, vocals

Listen to Bronx River Parkway " Donde"

STEVIE WONDER - NEVER DREAMED YOU'D LEAVE IN SUMMER

2009-04-09T00:00:00.005+02:00

("Where I'm Coming From", Motown Records, 1971)

We're in 1971, Stevie Wonder's contract went to expire... Berry Gordy was forced to accept whatever he proposed, if he wanted to keep him on Motown.

So it's a very innovative record, because it's the first in which Wonder had complete artistic freedom in its production... And we all know his talent !

Besides this beautifull ballad was written by Stevie Wonder and his first wife Syreeta Wright.

Listen to Stevie Wonder "Never Dreamed You'd Leave In Summer"

BILLY COBHAM - PANHANDLER

2009-04-08T00:29:00.009+02:00

("A Funky Thide Of Sings", ATCO Records, 1975)

The Panamanian American Billy Cobham is one of the best fusion's drummers ! The power of his sound is just incredible, he has a marvellous mastery of funk/rock rythms... And his band magnify that, with fine musicians like Brecker Brothers.

This tune, composed by Cobham, begins with a drums solo (15''), and then... FUNKY MUSIC !!!

Billy Cobham - drums
John Scofield - guitar
Milcho Leviev - keyboards
Alex Blake - bass
Randy Brecker - trumpet
Michael Brecker - saxophone
Glenn Ferris - trombone
'Rebop' Kwaku Baah - congas

Listen to Billy Cobham "Panhandler

GURU - STATE OF CLARITY

2009-04-07T00:53:00.010+02:00

("Jazzmatazz Vol.4", 7 Grand Records, 2007)

Guru (Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal), the rapper of Gang Starr, mythical group with DJ Premier, is a pioneer of Hip-Hop jazz music.

Extract of his project "Jazzmatazz", this track features Common and the smooth jazz keyboardist, arranger and producer Bob James (sampled by Eric B. & Rakim, Beastie Boys, De La Soul, Wu-Tang Clan, etc).

This album is the second release for Guru's label, 7 Grand Records (with producer Solar).

Know that the 5th Volume of Jazzmatazz, "The Time Bomb Back To The Future Mixtape", is available !

Listen to Guru "State Of Clarity"

DANNY GATTON - WHEEL WITHIN A WHEEL

2009-04-06T00:00:00.005+02:00

("New York Stories", Blue Note, 1992)

There's a jazz version of "Wheel Within A Wheel".

It's an extract of an obscure and forgotten recording of guitarist Danny Gatton, already legendary for his country and rock and roll guitar mastery.

With him, an all-star jazz group... Including Bobby Watson, who composed the tune.

This is the sound of New York City !

Danny Gatton : guitar

Bobby Watson : alto sax

Roy Hargrove : trumpet

Joshua Redman : tenor sax

Franck Amsallem : piano

Charles Fambrough : bass

Yuron Israel : drums

Listen to Danny Gatton "Wheel Within A Wheel"

THE CINEMATIC ORCHESTRA - WHEEL WITHIN A WHEEL

2009-04-03T00:01:00.006+02:00

("Gilles Peterson Worldwide Exclusives", Talkin' Loud, 2004)

The Cinematic Orchestra interpret here a composition of Bobby Watson, a hard-bop jazz alto saxophonist, who performed with the Jazz Messengers of Art Blakey between 1977 and 1981.

This version of "Wheel Within A Wheel" is an exclusive and unreleased track of the always excellent Gilles Peterson's radio show, WorldWide.

"Wheel Within A Wheel" was also played by great jazzmen like Freddie Hubbard, Wynton Marsalis and Art Blakey...

Listen to The Cinematic Orchestra "Wheel Within A Wheel"

BOBBY MARCHAN - WHAT CAN I DO ?

2009-04-02T00:36:00.015+02:00

("What Can I Do ?", Stax Records/Volt 108, 1963)

Bobby Marchan (a female impersonator... you can hear it !!!) signed on Stax Records in 1963, recommended to Jim Stewart by Otis Redding (he was a part of warm up act group for Redding live shows).

He made his label debut with this beautiful song : "What Can I Do ?".

In that era, the radio stations refused to play more than one or two new songs from a record label at one time... That's why this single came out on Volt 108, subsidiary label of Stax, created to circumvent this radio stations policy !

Listen to Bobby Marchan "What Can I Do ?"

WOODY SHAW - SUNBATH

2009-04-01T01:53:00.015+02:00

("Love Dance", Muse Records, 1976)

"Sunbath" is a composition of pianist Peggy Stern, originally recorded by trumpeter Woody Shaw on his album "Love Dance".
A good binary rythm, a great theme play by an experienced band : just a piece of groove !

Pay attention to the tenor sax Billy Harper : he isn't solist on this track, but he has an incredible sound... Remember him !

Woody Shaw : trumpet

Steve Turre : trombone

Rene McLean : soprano & alto sax

Billy Harper : tenor sax

Joe Bonner : piano

Cecil McBee : bass

Victor Lewis : drums

Guilherme Franco : percussion

Tony Waters : congas

Listen to Woody Shaw "Sunbath"