El Michels Affair—aka Leon Michels, the head of BIG CROWN—is extremely busy, having even won a Grammy Award for his work as a producer. His sound is meticulously crafted, drawing inspiration from ’80s and ’90s fashion, MF DOOM’s sampling sources, and T.L. Barrett’s gospel music.
Florence Adooni, hailed as the “Gospel Queen” of the Fula Fula tri ...Read more (Original Japanese text by AYAM)be in northern Ghana, has garnered attention for her collaborations on tracks by Jimi Tenor (she also released her first solo album, *A.O.E.I.U.*, earlier this year). “Say Goodbye” features cute vocals, bouncy basslines and drums, and a chorus that sticks in your head; “Mágica” is a jazz-funk track brimming with groove and saudade, featuring Rogê, one of the top singer-songwriters in contemporary Brazilian MPB; “Anticipate” (sample 1), featuring Clairo—the Atlanta singer-songwriter known for her soft vocals whose album *Charm*, produced by Leon Michels, became a global hit— the psychedelic and romantic mid-tempo track “Indifference” (sample 2), featuring Shintaro Sakamoto, which was the talk of the town even before the album’s release; a reunion with Norah Jones—whose collaborative album with Leon Michels, *Visions*, won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance; and the melancholic, poignant funk ballad “Carry Me Away” (sample 3)—every track is so wonderful that I’d love to provide a detailed commentary on each one, and since the track order tells a cohesive story, I highly recommend listening to the album from start to finish. Be sure to also listen closely to the fantastic backing musicians, featuring BIG CROWN artists such as Kevin Martin (Gt, Brainstory) and Homer Steinweiss (Dr). The album artwork, featuring a championship trophy you’ll want to display, is also top-notch. This is one of my top recommendations of the year. (Original Japanese text by AYAM)

A self-produced project by Mistura Pura, who served as a resident DJ in Milan, on the island of Panarea in the Aeolian Islands, and in Sicily from the late ’90s through the early 2000s, gaining immense popularity as a lounge selector. Marking a sharp departure from the Latin crossover style with strong lounge elements featured on his previous work, ...Read more (Original Japanese text by AYAM) “Mah’ Wah Funk”—conceived as a tribute to ’70s funk—is a cosmic, ultra-groovy disco-funk track that’s quintessentially Mistura Pura. The other track, “Love Is Full Of Colours,” features an ecstatic track that builds on the flute and mood of the previous release, “Vamo Vive,” while amplifying the groove and psychedelic elements. (Original Japanese text by AYAM)

THE BALEK BAND, a band project by VIDOCK, who runs ABSTRACK RECORDS, presents a dark funk/slow house album that sounds like a jazz musician meets a drum machine! The band's project, THE BALEK BAND, has released "Vierge de Guadalupe" (sample 1), a dark funk/slow house tune with a heavy kick and a heavy slap bass that brings in the funk! The original ...Read more (Original Japanese text by Akie) is as trancey and Balearic in its flare as the original, and sample 2 is a great arrangement that will probably become an anthem this summer. A masterpiece that sticks in a wide range of music, from alternative disco〜modern funk, please don't delay. (Original Japanese text by Akie)

This is the debut album by Charles Garmendia—who plays percussion for the Zamrock band WITCH and the psychedelic funk band L'Eclair, and is also active around the world as a visual artist and live performer—released under the name Charlie Chimi. The project’s name is derived from the “chimi,” a famous street burger from the Dominican Republic. Gath ...Read more (Original Japanese text by Adachi)ering a diverse international lineup of members known as the “Chimis,” the group delivers dizzyingly theatrical live performances. Centered around Afro-Cuban rhythms, funk basslines, and playful Spanish-language lyrics, the album features 13 tracks produced and recorded in Havana. Packed with a wealth of unique sonic ingredients, it exudes an irrepressible, eclectic charm. It’s at the cutting edge of Latin music—percussive, chaotic, yet lighthearted and fast-paced. Coco Maria’s impeccable artistic vision shines through. Includes a 4-page insert featuring liner notes and original artwork. (Original Japanese text by Adachi)

Created around the themes of vacation, that little vacation feeling in your heart, and the music that accompanies them, this album showcases Erobique’s signature magical, soft, and lustrous unique sensibility; the sparkling keyboard wizardry of a true craftsman; a fusion of European elegance with a warm and diverse musical sensibility; and, above a ...Read more (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)ll, gentle, kinky relaxation— and a lighthearted, buoyant disco groove—all of which are wonderfully timeless, forever green, and fresh, seeping deep into your heart. It’s packed with great tracks. A true masterpiece. Don’t miss this opportunity—the perfect timing for this reissue. A gem you’ll want to play on vinyl. (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)

As you know, Side A, “Pingu’s Anthem” (sample 1), is a solid, crisp drum breakbeat track dedicated to the classic claymation masterpiece “Pingu,” featuring a cheerful horn section, piano, and flute solos—a lighthearted, powerful, and cute modern funk track. a minimal, fast-paced rhythm section, accented by striking metallic percussive sounds, a sha ...Read more (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)rp, psychedelic-rocking melody from the Farfasa organ, and the bold sound of the horn section—all coming together in the dangerous, killer modern funk track on Side B, “Gronk” (sample 2), is also awesome. (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)

Following BOGDAN RA from Lisbon’s underground scene for the first installment and DELFONIC for the second—both highly skilled edit artists who have been drawing attention—the third artist in FUNKYJAWS MUSIC’s new “DISCOLIFTING” series is BLACK TRUFFLE! Side B features a collage of the “Love in Venice” soundtrack layered over THE TRAMMPS’ “Disco Inf ...Read more (Original Japanese text by Akie)erno”—a Philadelphia disco classic running over 10 minutes and famously played by Larry Levan. Side A features “Ti Voglio,” a classic in the Sal Soul style left behind by actress Ornella Vanoni—a romantic and mesmerizing track masterfully reimagined! (Original Japanese text by Akie)

Featuring bass and electronic horn organ by Robo Arigo, a creative, unique artist and idea man who works in the graphics department at NTA Benin (Nigerian Television Authority); electronic organ by Emman Osagie, a producer at NTA Benin and a member of Severe7; electronic piano, Moog synth, ARP synth, and congas—this album fully unfolds Myong Myong’ ...Read more (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)s utterly unique psychedelic world, which incorporates Afrobeat, disco & boogie, funk, reggae, and even country music, ranging from P-Funk to a surprisingly Sun Ra-esque cosmic vision, and “Myun-Myun”—featuring synthesizers with deep, rich tones and zany choruses that really grab you—this album fully unfolds Chikirin’s one-of-a-kind psychedelic world. Be sure to check out the tracklist as well. (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)

Arthur Russell wrote the music, played cello and piano, and arranged the arrangements, with Wilbur Bascomb, NIcky Siano's favorite bass player; Allan Schwartzberg, a friend of Arthur Russell's; Myriam Valle on vocals; David Byrne of Talking Heads on guitar; Peter Gordon on saxophone; Peter Zummo on trombone. The album was recorded throughout 1977 a ...Read more (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)nd released on 12" in 1978 on Sire Records (selling over 300,000 copies). The album was recorded throughout 1977 and released on 12" in 1978 on Sire Records (selling over 300,000 copies).
The 13 minutes and 4 seconds long mix Side-A "Kiss Me Again" (sample 1) by Jimmy Simpson, which slowly leads us into a disco long story with a band ensemble and funky soulfulness, interspersed with experimental elements, is also great. Side-B "Kiss Me Again (Version)" (12 minutes and 42 seconds) is a 12-minute and 42-second track with Arthur Russell's arrangement and mix, which is too crazy and lovely from a DJ's point of view, with a tricky mix and a lovely solo performance ensemble of underground left-field masters who also enjoy soloing each instrument. Kiss Me Again (Version)" (sample 2) and (sample 3) are dangerously fragrant and deeply fascinating due to the tasteful and musical metamorphosis. Both the remastering and analog cutting are beautifully done with a wonderfully warm sound quality and sound pressure.
Includes liner notes by NIcky Siano, David Byrne, Peter Gordon, and Peter Zummoini. No-digital vinyl-only release. (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)

The second album by Klawo, a jazz-funk band from Gdańsk, set for release in March 2025. The band develops a unique sound that blends funk and hip-hop with modern experimental elements such as jazz and electronic music. Born from their touring experiences and time spent together as bandmates, this album is brimming with a laid-back vibe. Centered ar ...Read moreound a positive, body-swaying groove, the mixed-genre sound features unexpected sharp turns into punk, ethnic phrases, and electronic experimentation. It’s open and energetic!

Side A features a mid-tempo, soulful Philly disco and boogie groove that flows gently, guided by the opening sounds of water and the New Age ambient synthesizer sounds mimicking whales and dolphins—a sound familiar from artists like The Orb “Oh Let The Rain Fall Down” (sample 1), Side B’s “I’m Feeling So Happy” (sample 2) is also fascinating—a zany ...Read more (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA), rocking boogie and soulful track with a unique vibe, featuring a bassline and groove reminiscent of Hall & Oates’ “Maneater,” along with euphoric, cheerful shouts that get you moving.
Two tracks from the 1988 album “On The Love Side/Happy Side” by Tory Wynter—who was active in a wide range of fields in the ’80s, including as a singer, actor, and producer—are being reissued for the first time on 7-inch vinyl by Tramp Records as part of a re-evaluation of his work!!
Side-A, “Oh Let The Rain Fall Down,” was previously included on the Tramp Records compilation “CAN YOU FEEL IT Vol. 5.” (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)

Collaborations with Janko Nilovic, Ubiquity, Fnr, and many others—The Soul Surfers, a renowned collective led by drummer Igor Zhukovsky, who enjoys immense popularity in Russia’s current modern funk scene, have released a new 7-inch record in collaboration with vocalist Sunsay. The B-side, “After The Storm (Instrumental)” (sample 2), is an instrume ...Read more (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)ntal version that showcases the persuasive power of their garage-modern-funk craftsmanship. (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)

A Nigerian musician descended from the Yoruba royal family, who appeared as a guest vocalist on the Afrobeat masterpiece *Super Afro Soul* by Orlando Julius & His Modern Aces; a key figure who visited Nigeria, interacted with local musicians, and introduced the country’s musical charm to the West; spotted by Ginger Baker and, like Fela Kuti, toured ...Read more (Original Japanese text by Saito) Europe—this is the 1973 debut album by Monomono, the band formed by Johnny Hustrap after his return to Japan. The lineup features regulars who have appeared on numerous important Afrobeat recordings, including conga player Friday Jumbo (who also played in Fela Kuti’s band), drummer Candido Obajimi, guitarist Babá Ken Okulolo, and bassist Keni Okulolo. This 2x12-inch edition includes “Wake Up The Dead Onez/Layipo,” which was released as a 7-inch single the following year, and “A Dele,” the debut single that fetches over 100,000 yen in its original form. Although it states that it includes an MP3 download code, since this is deadstock from a reissue released over 10 years ago, it is unclear whether the download is still available. (Original Japanese text by Saito)

The organ played by Adam Scone, a veteran of the soul revival scene who studied under Lonnie Smith and Melvin Sparks, the guitar of Jimmy James—one of soul’s most formidable right-hand players—and the drums of Tim Carman, who honed his skills on world tours with the blues group GA-20. These three powerhouse musicians come together to deliver instru ...Read moremental tracks packed with soul jazz, funk, and blues. Side A retains the essence of the original songs while shifting into a funky groove. Side B, on the other hand, takes a complete turn toward a sweet, mellow sound. This stylish 45-rpm record captures both extremes of the holiday season—the celebration and its lingering afterglow—on a single disc.

From *SOUFFLE CONTINU*, a label dedicated to reissuing avant-garde jazz from the ’60s and ’70s as well as French jazz. This album features the legendary jazz player BYARD LANCASTER (1942–2012), a Philadelphia-born saxophonist and flutist who was also a versatile musician capable of playing a wide range of instruments . The album spans a wide range, ...Read more (Original Japanese text by Akie) from the opener “Just Test”—featuring not only his exceptional saxophone playing but also a funk track brimming with the energy of the band’s ensemble—to the more subdued “Work And Pray,” which incorporates elements of blues and soul. His high level of expressiveness, skillfully manipulating nuances, conveys a sincere engagement with the melodies. A masterpiece of highly creative jazz, imbued with a physical, funk-driven energy that could be seen as a tribute to James Brown and Sammy Davis Jr. (Original Japanese text by Akie)

The only album by The Strangers, an American electronic funk studio project featuring Edward “Tree” Moore, Howard King, and Hubert Eaves III (one half of D-Train). Starting with a dope electro-funk track featuring Gary Bartz on saxophone, the album weaves through punk-funk, post-Prince vibes, sophisticated pop sensibilities, and proto-acid synths a ...Read morend vocoders, delivering flawless tracks and top-notch production. An irresistible Salsoul classic.

Slave's masterpiece "Just A Touch Of Love," The O'Jays' "Back Stabbers," The Chi-Lites' "My First Mistake," and The Jazzists' "In Focus" have been reworked. (Original Japanese text by Saito)

A special collaborative album by Soul Sugar and Dub Shepherd, two artists who share a love for roots reggae, vintage studio equipment, and warm analog sounds.
Recorded over two intensive days, the session featured ribbon and tube microphones from the ’50s and ’60s, a Hammond organ, an upright piano, a Fender bass, a Gibson guitar, and classic a ...Read more (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)mps and preamps, along with drums, synth drums, and percussion. The sessions were transferred to a 24-track tape machine, and the final mix was completed by Dub Shepherds at their Bat Records Studio using an analog console and vintage hardware effects in the traditional manner, resulting in nine tracks that are warm, gentle, and enveloping. (Original Japanese text by COMPUMA)

Produced by NASH STUDIO, a company that creates and sells royalty-free music, “SC-1903” is a track notable for its exquisite blend of a catchy, memorable melody and a deep, rumbling slap bass. It is a classic easy-listening track widely recognized as the in-store background music at Hard Off, which operates stores nationwide. This easy-listening cl ...Read moreassic, long and deeply loved by people of all ages, is now available on vinyl once again in response to popular demand! Of course, it also includes the version featuring an in-store announcement by radio DJ Hitoshi Shimamura, which was a huge hit last time. Don’t miss this opportunity! (From the manufacturer’s information)
Please note that purchases are limited to one copy per person. Thank you for your understanding.