American Athlete

Thank You!

2011-11-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

I'm sad to announce that today's post will be the final one here on this site. Over the past six months I've found that I wanted to shift my focus onto other new projects which would include a new site called Village Dance Radio dedicated to jazz and Afro-Latin grooves. I hope that many of you will enjoy this new site as much as you've enjoy this one.

I admit that it was a very difficult decision to move on from this blog. Over the past 5+ years that I have been maintaining this site on a daily basis, I have had the priceless opportunity both online and in-person to meet many people from all over the world including many that I now consider friends in places like Paris, London, New York, Vancouver, Seattle, and San Francisco. It's at times acted not only as a place to share some of my favorite music, but as an online journal of my life from my grandmother passing, to me getting married (to my amazing and beautiful wife - I might add), my many cross-state moves , etc., and I just want to say thanks for all the support I've received over the years. I had no idea that a little blog like this one could result in such a wonderful place to share music on a daily basis while in the end, meeting so many new friends. I really hope that many of you continue to stay in touch as I focus on new projects including my new site which I've just added the first post. I will continue to release the Cabana Disco series as well as a new re-edit 12" on Kojak Giant Sounds later this fall/winter. I'm also flirting with the idea of starting a new Tropical-funk/jazz night in possibly either SF or Oakland.

In all, there is not much I can say other than THANK YOU! This site (which will remain up hopefully permanently as an archival site) has played a major part in my life and I'm am absolutely grateful that I had the chance to do it for so many years and share it with all of you.

This is TJ (aka Pat Les Stache) signing off with a final track from Arthur Russell (which I thought would be appropriate). Enjoy!

Arthur Russell - Let's Go Swimming (Coastal Dub version)

Racetrack in France

2011-11-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

Here is another solid track from Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson titled "Racetrack France". This funky gem was released on the duo's 1977 album Bridges which features a number of other greats songs including "Hello Sunday! Hello Road!", "Under The Hammer", and "We Almost Lost Detroit". Overall just another must-own release from the legendary soul-funk duo.

Gil Scott-Heron & Brian Jackson - Racetrack France

GROW UP - Tuesday Night!

2011-10-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

If this Halloween weekend wasn't enough for ya, come hang out this Tuesday night at Amnesia (853 Valencia St., San Francisco) for another rendition of Grow Up. This month, residents Hotthobo, Fenstar, and Pat Les Stache will be joined by SweaterFunk's own Two Step Lou who always drops a great set of boogie and disco jams. It should be another great night. I hope to see everyone out!

Learn more about the monthly disco/boogie night by going to the Facebook Event page.

The Soul of Africa

2011-10-28T13:47:00.001-07:00

Let's end the week with a selection from one of my favorite African jazz records "Soul of Africa" which was a collaborative effort between saxophonist Hal Singer and pianist Jef Gilson. The album, which was originally released back in 1974 and later re-issued by Kindred Spirits, features a number of amazing Afro-centric jazz tracks including "Mother Africa", "Liberation", "Garvey's Strut", and my personal favorite "Chant Inca". With the original almost impossible to find, this is one re-issue definitely worth picking up. For those that enjoy this album I highly recommend checking out some of Gilson's other work including Malagasy, Malagasy At Newport-Paris, Le Massacre Du Printemps, Œil Vision, as well as the recent "Best of" release Jazzman Records put out this year. Enjoy!

Hal Singer & Jef Gilson - Chant Inca

Benin's Godfather of Funk

2011-10-26T12:06:00.001-07:00

Daptone Records has just released an incredible retrospective release paying tribute to the Benin funk legend El Rego. Rego (full name Theophile Do "El" Rego), along with his band Ses Commandos released a number of priceless gems during the sixties and seventies that helped kick start Benin's culturally rich funk movement that produced other great artists like Gnonnas Pedro, Antoine Dougbé, T.P. Orchestre Poly-Rythmo De Cotonou, and others. On this new retrospective release, Daptone Records has compiled a diverse selection of El Rego's greatest songs including "Feeling You Got", "Djobime", "Hessa", "E Nan Mian Nuku" and "Do Do Baya". The record really does a nice job of showcasing the diverse sound of El Rego's music which includes elements of funk, soul, traditional African rhythms, and Afrobeat grooves. This release is not only a tribute to El Rego, but an important look into Benin's explosive music scene during the sixties and seventies. I couldn't recommend this record enough! Daptone Records has done a great service to all by providing an accessible and affordable way for many to explore the legend that is El Rego. Enjoy!

El Rego - Zon Dede

Purchase Daptone Record's new El Rego retrospective release by clicking here.

South African Man

2011-10-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

Let's start the week off with probably my all-time favorite Hamilton Bohannon song in "South African Man". This funky cut was the title track to Bohannon's 1974 hard-to-find album release. The South African Man LP probably represents one of Bohannon's rarest releases. The album is solid from start to finish, including other standout cuts like "Keep on Dancing", "Truck Stop", "Dance With Your Parno" and a few others. The entire record has a bit of a heavy-hittin' Afro-funk groove throughout which really helps separate this release from some of Bohannon's other more "disco-fied" records. An absolute gem!

Hamilton Bohannon - South African Man

Happy Birthday Dizzy!

2011-10-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

With Dizzy Gillespie being one of my all-time favorite jazz artists, and today being his birthday(Thanks to Google for the reminder), I thought I would pay tribute to the jazz legend by featuring another one of my favorite tracks by Gillespie in "N'Bani". This funky track was featured on Gillespie's 1970 album The Real Thing. As I've probably mentioned before on this site (see Funky Manteca), Gillespie was one of the first jazz artists I grew to enjoy and really appreciate. His music was the start of me opening up to jazz music in general and it has since played a major influence on me musically. With that being said, he would have been 94 years old today and even though he is not with us physically anymore, his music is still very much alive and breathing in many of us. So here is to you Dizzy, Happy Birthday!

Dizzy Gillespie - N'Bani

And as a bonus...

Dizzy Gillespie - Manteca

If You Ever Needed Somebody

2011-10-19T17:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a great disco/boogie gem from Charles Veal titled "If You Ever Needed Somebody". This funky track was featured on the violinist and multi-instrumentalist's 1980 album Only the Best. Just a little something' to help you get through your Wednesday. Enjoy!

Charles Veal - If You Ever Needed Somebody

Wake Up Your Mind

2011-10-18T17:42:00.001-07:00

This week the French label Hot Casa Records released an official re-issue of Joni Haastrup's classic Afro-funk album Wake Up Your Mind. This was the Nigerian-born and now Oakland, Ca. based solo album, however not his only music contribution to the world. Before releasing his solo record back in 1978 off of the Afrodisia label, Haastrup was featured on many notable African-based records including Orlando Julius' 1966 album Super Afro Soul, as well as playing guitar and keys in Ginger Baker's African inspired group Ginger Baker's Air Force. During the mid seventies Haastrup led the Afro-funk/ Afrobeat band MonoMono, who released a couple of amazing records which have just been re-released by Tummy Touch and Soundway Records. Overall, the man once known as Nigeria's "Soul Brother Number One" has contributed quite a bit musically to the world, and his late seventies masterpiece Wake Up Your Mind is an absolute gem that helps capture the brilliance of this legendary artist. Please go do yourself a favor and purchase all of these recent released re-issues!!!

Joni Haastrup - Greetings

New Release on Kojak Giant Sounds!

2011-10-14T16:21:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce that my next re-edit 12" will be released by the Finland based label Kojak Giant Sounds. Over the last two years this label, which is run by DJ Ionik, has teamed up with some major heavy weight producers/deejays including Beatfanatic, Mike Burns, Leftside Wobble, Maxxi Soundsystem, Rayko, Nicholas Iammatteo and others to release some of the best disco/ boogie edits out there. My release with this label should be out sometime later this fall and will feature two edits, which you can hear by checking out Kojak Giant Sounds SoundCloud page. I'll continue to keep everyone posted as to the actual release of the new record once I have that information. Enjoy!

Pat Les Stache - "Odeiyolaoo Mambo" by Kojak Giant Sounds™

Moussaka

2011-10-12T16:27:00.000-07:00

Here is one my favorite cuts in "Moussaka" from jazz trumpeter Eddie Henderson. This funky and yet soulful jazz gem was featured on Henderson's brilliant 1974 Inside Out album which features an incredible cast of musicians including Buster Williams (bass), Herbie Hancock (electric piano & keys), Bennie Maupin (clarinet, flute, saxophone), Billy Hart (drums) and Bill Summers (congas). If you find yourself really enjoying this track, I highly recommend checking out many of the trumpeter's other records from this era including Realization, Sunburst, and Heritage.

This is a great example of the kind of music I'll be featuring on my new upcoming online radio show Village Dance Radio, which will debut starting in November. On this new radio show I will also be focusing on rare Afro-Latin gems, spiritual jazz cuts, and a blend of Tropical disco. Just think this blog shifted more to the jazz side of things. Anyways, I'm very excited to start this new project and I look forward to sharing it with all of you. Until then, enjoy this funky track by Eddie Henderson.

Eddie Henderson - Moussaka

After your done listening, play bingo online.

Nassau Got Soul

2011-10-11T13:09:00.001-07:00

Here is Wess & The Airedales soulful rendition of The Beginning Of The End's early seventies disco classic "Funky Nassau". This version of the song was included on the group's 1972 album Vehicle. Even though I tend to prefer either The Beginning Of The End's and/or Ray Munnings' 1979 version of the song, I think this is a worthy rendition that brings a bit of a more soulful feel to the overall classic. Enjoy!

Wess & The Airedales - Funky Nassau

Caribbean Congo

2011-10-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

Let's end the week with a new re-edit I recently did of tropical disco gem from 1977. As the title suggests, I went for a funky Caribbean groove on this edit. I'm sure if you listen closely, you'll be able to identify the original track. As always, I would love to hear feedback regarding this track from everyone. Enjoy your weekend!

Pat Les Stache - Caribbean Congo

Saffron & Latin Soul

2011-10-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

Here is a funky Latin gem by Pucho & His Latin Soul Brothers titled "Caravan". This heavy-hitting Latin instrumental cut was featured on the group's very hard-to-find 1967 album Saffron & Soul, which was released off the known jazz label Presitge. Sweater Funk's DJ Jacob Pena first introduced me to this specific record by Pucho when he dropped a track off this record when he was guest deejaying last month's SFJAZZ Hotplate night. His original version was actually signed by Henry "Pucho" Brown himself! After getting a hold a digital version of the album, the vinyl version has easily climbed to the top of my wishlist. After one listen, I wouldn't be surprised if many of you are feeling the same way. Enjoy!

Pucho & His Latin Soul Brothers - Caravan

The Juju Experience

2011-10-04T17:30:00.000-07:00

Here is one of my favorite cuts from Juju (aka Oneness of Juju) in "Black Experience". This funky soulful African-flavored jazz gem wa featured on the group's 1974 album Chapter Two: Nia which was originally released off of the Strata East label. This is just one of the many great tracks off this record which also includes notable cuts like "Nia", "The End of the Butterfly King", as well as a solid rendition of Pharaoh Sanders' "Black Unity". This LP was re-issued a few years back, which should only be used as a "place-holder" until you can hunt down an original copy. Highly recommended!

Juju - Black Experience

GROW UP - TONIGHT!

2011-10-04T11:02:00.001-07:00

Come early, stay late!

› Facebook Event Page

Do What You Want To Do

2011-10-03T13:01:00.001-07:00

Let's start the week off with a classic funky gem titled "Do What You Want To Do" by Willie Bobo & The Bo Gents. This Latin-flavored funk gem was the title track of the group's only album, which was released back in 1971. On this album, the Latin jazz percussionist Willie Bobo surrounds himself with a solid cast of musicians to release one his most funky releases. Overall, if your a fan of Bobo's incredible fusion of Latin grooves and deep 70's funk, this one album that you must own. Enjoy!

Willie Bobo & The Bo Gents - Do What You Want To Do

Blog Update

2011-10-03T13:00:00.001-07:00

First off, I want to apologies for the lack of updates last week. I was busy moving from San Francisco to the East Bay, therefore the move occupied most of my time. With that being said I have decided to start winding down this blog and start something new in the form on an online radio show podcast/ blog. I will keep everyone posted when I have more info regarding this new project. Regarding this blog, I'm anticipating that October will be my final month writing this blog. It's had a great run, however as you might be able to tell, I want to start focusing on Afro-Latin grooves and spiritual jazz rarities and less dancefloor material. I still love all the disco, boogie, and soul tracks that I have posted on this site for the past 5 years, however I'm looking forward to exploring new territory with the music I find myself listening to most often these days. I hope many of this site's followers will transition and follow the new site, which will function like a blog, yet include more mixes, radio shows, upcoming new releases, and reviews.

Thanks.

Brotherhood

2011-09-28T11:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a great soul jazz gem titled "Brotherhood" from Kamal Abdul Alim. This funky track was featured on the trumpeter's 1983 self-titled album, which features some jazz heavy weights including James Spaulding (Alto & Flute), Bobby Watson (Alto & Soprano), Ron Burton (Piano), and Idris Muhammad (Drums). The remainder of the line-up is rounded out by some lesser known, yet solid musicians that include Sabu Adeyola (Bass), Abdul Wali (Guitar ), and Abdus Saboor (Percussion). The entire album is solid from start to finish, staying with an overall soulful jazz groove that blends nicely with some of the records more spiritual moments. Overall, this is an amazing jazz album that I highly recommend keeping an eye out for. Enjoy!

Kamal Abdul-Alim - Brotherhood

Interpretation of the Afro Rhythm

2011-09-26T17:13:00.001-07:00

Let's start the week off with a selection off of Ray Stephen Oche's rare African jazz album Interpretation of the Original Rhythm, titled "Okwukwu-Kiwongo". This funky track is just one of the many amazing cuts off of this LP, which was recorded back in 1970 by a number of brilliant musicians hailing from the Congo, Togo, Guinea, Gambia, Brazil and West Indies. Honestly, every song is truly great as it features a nice blend of Afro and Latin rhythms and vocal chants. Even though this record is very hard-to-find, it shouldn't stop it from being very high on everybody's wishlist. Enjoy!

Ray Stephen Oche - Okwukwu-Kiwongo

Happy Birthday Trane!

2011-09-23T13:36:00.001-07:00

Today is John Coltrane's birthday (born in Hamlet, North Carolina on September 23, 1926). He would have been 85 years of age. Surprisingly I haven't mentioned him much (if at all) on this site as I felt his sound didn't really fit the format of this blog, meaning his recordings aren't the kind of thing you drop on the dancefloor and expect people to "get down" to. However that being said, Coltrane is my favorite artist of all-time (only competing with the great Arthur Russell). The last record I generally spin at night, when I'm hangin' out at home, tends to be one of the many LP's (Over 20) I own by the legendary jazz giant. Some of my favorites include Africa/Brass, Olé Coltrane, A Love Supreme, Impressions, My Favorite Things, Kulu Se Mama, Coltrane (1962 Impulse version), Giant Steps, as well as many others. I'm not going to try to sum up Coltrane's brilliant and complex career with this post because their is a book worth of material if not more to examine and discuss. Many great writer's have already done that, therefore I'll just keep it simple and say that John Coltrane's sound, compositions, and releases are more than music to me, it's more like a spiritual experience that has the ability to unleash multiple emotions all at once by being subtle yet complex. The first time I heard A Love Supreme I was actually in an airplane and dealing with some intense anxiety due to my constant fear of flying, and by the time Part 4: "Psalm" (the final track) completed I felt extremely calm and the emotional transition had nothing to do with anything other than the music I just heard. From there on out I became hooked on Coltrane's music and sound. Coltrane was the first artist to really open me up to the spiritual side of jazz which eventually led me to discovering my love for other spiritual jazz artists like Archie Shepp, Pharaoh Sanders, Horace Tapscott, Cecil McBee, Alice Coltrane, Don Cherry, Steve Reid, and so many others. So to basically sum it, John Coltrane's music has changed my life and for that, it's nice to put some time aside to help pay tribute to one of the greatest musicians and artists of all-time. Happy Birthday Trane!

John Coltrane - Kulu Sé Mama

Latin Coke Music

2011-09-22T17:44:00.000-07:00

Let's keep it short and sweet with the classic Latin rock gem "Na Na" from the Florida based group Coke. This funky groove heavy track was featured on the group's early seventies self-titled release, which was originally released on Sound Triangle Records. During the group's short-lived existence, they mastered the ability to blend the Latin the NuYorican sound with heavy-hitting funk grooves led by soulful vocals. Definitely a true gem!

Coke - Na Na

Highlife Underground

2011-09-21T17:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a preview of the forthcoming release from Sofrito titled Sofrito Super Singles 004 - Highlife Underground EP. This amazing new twelve-inch single features two new funky tropical Afro edits. The A-side track has the Sofrito crew teaming up with London based producer DrumTalk in remixing Mpese Mpese Band's 1986 bass heavy gem "Mpese Mpese Theme" into a futuristic highlife dancefloor cooker. The flip continues to turn up the heat with a reworking of an early eighties Afro-funk track from the Canadoes Dance Band. It's safe to say that there will be no standing around on the dancefloor when either of these heavy-hitting Afro gems get spun. Overall, Sofrito continues to prove once again that they are kings of the tropical discotheque. Enjoy!

Sofrito Super Singles 004 - Highlife Underground EP by Sofrito

Afrobeat Liberation

2011-09-20T11:24:00.001-07:00

I was diggin' through some records I hadn't listen to for awhile last night and I came across the superb 2000 album Liberation Afro Beat Vol. 1 by the "new skool" Afrobeat group Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra (Sometimes simply known as Antibalas) and thought I would feature it today. Even though I generally enjoy all of Antibalas' releases, Liberation Afro Beat Vol. 1 is easily my favorite of the bunch. The album truly captures the fiery energy that Afrobeat originator Fela Kuti so easily generated with his brilliant music. The record features numerous gems including "Si, Se Puede", "Dirt and Blood", "Battle Of The Species", and "El Machete" among others. I don't see many copies of this record popping up in used bins these days, however if you do happen to come up apron a copy, I highly recommend snatching the up the LP. I guarantee you will not be disappointed. Enjoy!

Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra - El Machete

South African Funk Experience

2011-09-16T15:48:00.001-07:00

Let's end the week with the track "Wozani Mahipi" (which I'm told means "Hippies Come to Soweto") by the group Mahlathini & Mahotella Queens off of the amazing South African Funk Experience compiled by Joan Armstrong. This compilation, which focuses on a eclectic mix of funky sounds that have spawn out of the South African region, was released by the UK label Nascente who consistently put out great releases focused on funky African, Latin, and tropical rarities. The South African Funk Experience comp, which I think is one of the label's best releases, features a number of priceless gems including the disco cut "Oh Yeh Soweto" by Teaspoon & The Waves, the soulful "Jabula's Happiness" by Jabula featuring Vicky Mhlongo , the big band jazz groover "Andromeda" by Chris McGregor’s Brotherhood of Breath, as well as funky Afro tracks from Dick Khoza, Dudu Pukwana & Spear, Malombo and many others. Really the only complaint that I have with this release is that it was only released on CD, therefore us vinyl lover's are left scrambling to hunt down all the original releases (which isn't necessarily a bad thing). Hopefully somewhere down the line, the Nascente label will consider releasing some of this material on wax. Until then, I recommend checking out the CD and/or digital version. Enjoy!

Mahlathini & Mahotella Queens - Wozani Mahipi

Tropical Colombian Funk

2011-09-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

It's a little gloomy here in the Bay Area today so I think I need a little "pick-me-up". What better remedy than Wganda Kenya's funky tropical gem "Bayesa" . This track was originally featured on the group's 1976 self-titled album, which was released by the now legendary Discos Fuentes label. This was just one of the many great tracks this group, which resided off the Caribbean coast of Colombia, released during the late seventies. If your into this sound, I highly recommend checking out other songs by this group. Enjoy!

Wganda Kenya - Bayesa

Boogie Fantasy

2011-09-13T10:52:00.001-07:00

One of the songs that I dropped into my set this past Grow Up I dropped the boogie gem "You're Too Late" by Fantasy. This funky dancefloor friendly track is featured on the group's 1980 self-titled album, which I've owned for a few years now, however had for the longest time never really fully digested. After going through some of my records that I hadn't heard in a while I gave this LP another spin and discovered how much I enjoy the "You're Too Late" track along with a few other solid cuts like "Read Between The Lines" and "You Can't Lose What You Never Had". This album was produced by notable disco producer Tony Valor who has worked on other projects like Soccer and Tony Valor Sounds Orchestra. Overall, it was a nice find within my own collection. Enjoy!

Fantasy - You're Too Late

SFJAZZ Hotplate Tonight!

2011-09-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Tonight at Amnesia (853 Valencia St bet. 19th/20th) is one of my favorite San Francisco monthly events in SFJAZZ Hotplate. For those that might not be familiar, Hotplate is a monthly event where some of the best local bay area jazz musicians pay tribute to legendary jazz greats. I find that the night always brings out a good crowd with great energy and the live music is generally solid from start to finish. Tonight will be even more of special treat with the very talented saxophonist Marcus Stephens paying tribute to one of my all-time favorite musicians in Joe Henderson. Joe Henderson had a very prolific career releasing timeless classic on first Blue Note Records, then shortly after on Milestone, and then in his later years on Verve. He also played as a sideman on numerous recordings with other legendary artists like Alice Coltrane, Pharaoh Sanders, McCoy Tyner, Lee Morgan, Bobby Hutcherson, Freddie Hubbard, Horace Silver, and many many others. With Stephens and crew having an incredible ellaborative and very diverse collection of music to choose from, this should be one of the best hotplate events so far. Don't miss out!

Joe Henderson - Tress-Cun-Deo-La

Joe Henderson - Foregone Conclusion

Rhythm of Life

2011-09-07T16:25:00.000-07:00

Feelin' pretty tired from last night's Grow Up party. Thanks to Sean Boogie for coming out and playing an amazing set! Those that didn't make it out, really missed out. Anyways, I need a little "pick-me-up" to get me through the rest of the day, therefore here is the uptempo soulful fusion gem "Free" by James Mason. This funky track was originally included on Mason's very rare 1977 album Rhythm of Life. Whenever I come across the original, I find that it generally goes for a few hundred dollars. The album nicely blends together funky jazz fusion instrumentation alongside soulful female vocals. A great record for those that enjoy soulful spiritual jazz. Enjoy!

James Mason - Free

Tibetan Serenity

2011-09-06T16:48:00.000-07:00

Let's start the week off with a spacey cosmic jazz gem titled "Tibetan Serenity" by keyboardist and violinist Travis Biggs. This funky track, which features a number of great breaks, was included on Biggs' 1976 album Challenge. The album was originally released on a small Detroit label called T & C and was more recently re-issued by the Soul Jazz Records sub-label Universal Sound. Other standout tracks on the album include "I Wish" and a rendition of Steve Miller's classic "Fly Like An Eagle". If you enjoy spacey funk fusion, I highly recommend checking this record out!

Travis Biggs - Tibetan Serenity
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To purchase or learn more about this album, visit the Soul Jazz website.

GROW UP - TONIGHT!

2011-09-06T11:28:00.001-07:00

Just a reminder that TONIGHT is the monthly disco/ boogie party Grow Up. The night, which is hosted at Amnesia (853 Valencia St bet. 19th/20th), will feature a special guest deejay set from Sean Boogie of San Francisco's boogie crew Sweaterfunk. The East Bay native has a deep vinyl collection of the rarest finds, therefore his set should feature some extremely hard-to-find gems that are seldom exposed. The night will also feature residents Hotthobo, Fenstar, and myself (Pat Les Stache). It should be an amazing night full of disco grooves and boogie gems….what more do you need on a Tuesday?!?!

Body Music

2011-09-02T12:13:00.001-07:00

Let's end the week with a funky gem by the group Afro Funk (Yes, there is a group named "Afro Funk"), titled "Obanya Special". This heavy-hitting Afro cut was originally featured on the group's hard-to-find album Body Music, which was released back in 1973. As you can imagine, the record sounds as advertised with a heavy dose of Afro-funk and Afrobeat grooves. Overall, a solid record from start to finish. Enjoy the long weekend!

Afro Funk - Obanya Special

Return of the Tropical Gangster

2011-08-31T17:48:00.000-07:00

Over the last year, the record label Strut has teamed up with a number of music legends like Dennis Coffey, Ebo Taylor, and Orchestre Poly-Rythmo to release fresh batch of new studio material. The latest notable artist to team up with the London based label to release a new record is legendary disco producer August Darnell, better known as Kid Creole. Darnell made a name for himself during the seventies and eighties producing classic disco releases by group's like Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band, Cory Daye, Gichy Dan's Beachwood # 9, Aural Exciters, Machine, as well as his own Kid Creole & The Coconuts' releases. Much like Coffey and Taylor, this new studio album, titled I Wake Up Screaming, represents the first new studio album in over a decade. This record was recorded at Darnell's own studio in Sweden and mixed by Brennan Green and Lars Nissen. The new album also features co-compositions and co-productions with Andy Butler of Hercules & Love Affair. I Wake Up Screaming has all the elements of a classic Kid Creole album with it's funky swagger on tropical groove-oriented music. Fans of Kid Creole will definitely not be disappointed. I highly recommend checking out this release!

Kid Creole & The Coconuts - We're Rockin' Out Tonight

You can purchase Kid Creole & The Coconuts' I Wake Up Screaming by clicking here.

Caribbean Conga Dance

2011-08-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

Let's start the week off with a funky Caribbean gem from King Errisson titled "Conga Man". This rare song was included on the 1976 album The Magic Man which was produced by disco/ funk legends Mike Theodore and Dennis Coffey. The funky track includes some subtle, yet impressive steel drum work that reminds me a bit of an Exuma song gone tropical. One of my favorites from the Nassau based percussionist. Enjoy!

King Errisson - Conga Man

Viva Panama!

2011-08-25T15:35:00.000-07:00

Over the last 6 years, the London based label Soundway has continued to release an impressive collection of compilations and reissues focused on rare Afro, Latin, and funky international grooves. Their label has turned into a stamp of quality when it comes to these hard-to-find sounds. Looking back now at their extensive collection of releases, the Latin and Cumbia focused compilation series Panama! is definitely one of the labels crowned achievements. This three part series highlighted extremely rare sixties and seventies Latin, Calypso, and Cumbia selections out of North and South America. I've highlighted some of the newer additions in this series on this site (see Panama! 3), however today I thought I would pay tribute to the entire series by sharing one of my favorite tracks off the first Panama! release in the very fitting selection "Viva Panama" by Papi Brandao Y Sus Ejecutivos. A superb funky tropical gem that really gives good insight into the overall sound of the entire compilation series. As more years continue to go by, I think record collectors and music critics will come to the agreement that Panama! was one of the best crafted Latin focused compilation series ever crafted.

Papi Brandao Y Sus Ejecutivos - Viva Panama

Better Days TONIGHT!

2011-08-25T12:32:00.001-07:00

Just a friendly reminder that I'll be guest deejaying TONIGHT at the monthly Better Days Disco Party located inside Underground SF (424 Haight Street, SF). I'll be dropping disco, boogie, and funky Afro gems all night. The party starts at 9PM, hope to see you there!

Any Requests? Please leave in the comment section!

Nickolas Ashford, 1942 - 2011

2011-08-23T18:15:00.000-07:00

I was very sad to hear that legendary musician, songwriter, and producer Nick Ashford passed away yesterday at the age of 69 due to throat cancer. Ashford, along with his wife Valerie Simpson, better known as the duo Ashford & Simpson wrote and released a number of soul and disco classics throughout the seventies and eighties including "Don't Cost You Nothing", "It Seems to Hang On", "One More Try", "Found a Cure", "Solid", and "Stay Free", to just name a few. On top of writing and producing numerous gems for him and his wife, Ashford also wrote a number of hits for many other artists including Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell's "Ain't No Mountain High Enough", Sylvester's "Over And Over", Chaka Khan's "I'm Every Woman", and Diana Ross's "The Boss" among many others. Looking back at Ashford's vast career which spans five decades, their might not be a greater and/or more accomplished soul, R&B, and disco song writer. Yesterday this world unfortunately lost one of it's great artists. With that being said, we will forever now remember him through the music he wrote and the joy his songs brought to the world (especially the dancefloor). In honor of this legend, I thought I would share one of my favorite songs by Ashford & Simpson in their 1976 loft-classic "One More Try".

RIP Nickolas Ashford
May 4, 1942 — August 22, 2011

Ashford & Simpson - One More Try

Funky AECO

2011-08-22T16:55:00.001-07:00

Here is a funky jazz gem from Art Ensemble Of Chicago titled "Funky AECO". This track represents one of the more funkier songs written by the group, who is usually more know for their avant-garde free jazz compositions. The funky groove oriented track was included on the group's 1985 album The Third Decade , which was released by ECM Records. The album features founding members Lester Bowie, Roscoe Mitchell, Joseph Jarman, Famoudou Don Moye, and Malachi Favors who is responsible for the tracks heavy bass groove. Overall, the track represents a different side to one of jazz music's most notable and accomplished avant-garde ensembles. Enjoy!

Art Ensemble of Chicago - Funky AECO

Gather Up All Your Friends

2011-08-18T17:42:00.001-07:00

I can't say that I'm a big Hubert Laws fan (at least as a band leader), however many of his CTI releases included some solid breaks. With that being said, here is probably my favorite track by the jazz flutist in "Family". This funky track, which has more of a boogie vide than anything even closely related to jazz, was the title track to his 1980 album Family, which came out on Columbia Records. Laws keeps it simple here, blending together some feel-good female vocals with a solid funk groove. and there's nothing wrong with that. Enjoy!

Hubert Laws - Family

Can't You See Me

2011-08-16T17:58:00.001-07:00

Let's keep it short and sweet today with a funky feel-good gem by Roy Ayers titled "Can't You See Me". This track was included on Ayer's 1978 album You Send Me, which could be considered one of the legendary vibraphonist's more funkier releases. Enjoy!

Roy Ayers - Can't You See Me

Ghetto Jungle

2011-08-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

Let's start the week off with another funky cosmic jazz gem titled "Ghetto Jungle" from Carlos Garnett. This track was featured on the Panamanian-American jazz saxophonist's rare 1975 album Let This Melody Ring On, which I have already featured once before on this blog a few month's back (See Let This Melody Ring On). Like much of Garnett's recordings, this composition nicely blends together elements of funky soul jazz and spiritual jazz. Just one of the many solid tracks from this superb record. Enjoy!

Carlos Garnett - Ghetto Jungle

Music is My Sanctuary

2011-08-11T17:33:00.000-07:00

Staying with today's jazz theme, here is the soul jazz classic "Music is My Sanctuary" by Gary Bartz. This funky gem was the title track to Bartz 1977 album, which was producer by soul-funk masterminds Larry Mizell and Fonce Mizell (better known as The Mizell Brothers). Even though I tend to enjoy Bartz's earlier, more spiritual, recordings like Libra, Harlem Bush Music - Taifa, and Another Earth, this track highlight's one of the more standout moments during Bartz's later jazz funk years. Enjoy!

Gary Bartz - Music is My Sanctuary

SFJAZZ Hotplate Tonight!

2011-08-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

For those in that reside in the bay area, tonight is the monthly event SFJAZZ Hotplate at the Amnesia bar (853 Valencia Street). SFJAZZ Hotplate is a monthly series that features local artists re-imagining the music of jazz legends. This month will feature Mike Olmos along with a cast of other great local jazz musicians in a full-blown tribute to legendary jazz trumpet player Freddie Hubbard. The show starts at 9pm and DJ Vinnie Esparza will be opening up the show by spinning some tasting "Hub-Tone" gems. For those that are seeking a great place to witness some of the best local jazz music in the bay, SFJAZZ Hotplate is definitely one monthly event not to be missed!

Learn more about tonight's SFJAZZ Hotplate show by visiting the Facebook event page.

Super Bar Konon Mousso

2011-08-10T10:31:00.001-07:00

Here is a superb Afro Funk gem titled "Super Bar Konon Mousso" by Amadou Balake. This funky cut was originally featured on Balake's hard-to-find 1978 album Bar Konon Mousso Bar, which is one of the three records that he released with the African label Sacodis and the second that was actually recorded in Lagos. A classic Afro Funk jam that is primed perfectly for those tropical disco parties. Enjoy!

Amadou Balake - Super Bar Konon Mousso

Go Bang! DJ Set

2011-08-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

As promised, here is my recorded deejay set from last month's Go Bang! party. It was a really fun night, hopefully you enjoy the mix!

Pat Les Stache Go Bang! Setlist

Go Bang!
July 23, 2011
Pat Les Stache setlist
--------------------------------
1. The Undisputed Truth - Smiling Faces Sometimes (Jazzy Jens re-edit)
2. The Nick Straker Band - A Little Bit of Jazz
3. Chaz Jankel - Get Myself Together
4. Teddy Pendergrass - You Can't Hide From Yourself (Dimitri From Paris Re-edit)
5. Brenda Harris - Making Love
6. Sparkle - Handsome Man
7. Gayle Adams - Your Love is a Life Saver
8. Harold Melvins & The Blue Notes - Bad Luck (Dimitri From Paris Re-edit)

It's Your World

2011-08-04T17:41:00.001-07:00

I know I recently just posted a track from Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson (See The Message, however I haven't been able to get their 1976 live version of "It's Your World" out of my head ever since I picked up their live LP when I was visiting New Orleans. The funky gem is the title track to their live It's Your World album which also includes live renditions of Gil Scott-Heron classic cuts like "Home is Where the Hatred Is", "Possum Slim", as well as a twelve-minute version of "The Bottle". The live and at times, improvised instrumentation, brings some nice energy to what was already great studio tracks. It's hard to top The Revolution Will Not Be Televised and Winter in America, however It's Your World might just be my favorite Gil Scott-Heron release. Highly recommended!!!

Gil Scott-Heron & Brian Jackson - It's Your World

Funky Highlife

2011-08-03T17:14:00.001-07:00

I'm pretty tired from last night's Grow Up party. Thanks to everyone who made it out…Definitely good times as always!

Here is an excerpt taken from C.K. Mann & Carousel 7's classic Afrobeat medley that was included on the group's 1975 Funky Highlife LP. This portion of the medley appears at the beginning of the record's A-side and is titled "Asafo Beesuon / Obaa Yaa Aye Me Bone". The track has appeared on a few notable compilations including BBE's fifth volume of their Strange Games & Funky Things series and the Ocho Records issue of The Shrine Presents Afrobeat. Overall a classic excerpt from one of the most sought after Afrobeat records. Enjoy!

C.K. Mann & Carousel 7 - Asafo Beesuon/ Obaa Yaa Aye Me Bone

Enjoy the Boogie

2011-08-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

A while ago I featured a track off the amazing, yet less known, compilation Rare Afro & Caribbean Funk Volume 2 (See Afro-Caribbean Funk. Today I thought I would post one of the many gems from the compilation series' first volume in Oby Onyioha's Afro boogie cut "Enjoy Your Life". This funky gem was originally featured on Onyioha's 1981 album I Want To Feel Your Love and features a solid disco groove throughout the track. Overall, just another superb cut from what I find is one of the most slept-on and well-crafted compilation series. Enjoy! (No pun intended)

Oby Onyioha - Enjoy Your Life

GROW UP Celebrates 2-Year Anniversay

2011-08-01T18:25:00.001-07:00

I'm excited to announce that TOMORROW NIGHT Grow Up will be celebrating it's 2-Year Anniversary!!! To help us celebrate, the night will include a special guest deejay set from the prolific DJ/Producer The Beat Broker. And as always, the party will include deejay sets from residents Hotthobo , Fenstar (both of Voltaire Records), and myself (Pat Les Stache). Last month's party (at our new location of Amnesia) went off, so tomorrow night should be a fun night.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone!

To learn more about tomorrow night's party, visit the Facebook Event Page.

Street Rap

2011-07-29T11:56:00.001-07:00

Let's end the week with the funky soul jazz gem "Street Rap" by Chicago based group Maulawi. This track was featured on the only album ever recorded by the group, which was led by saxophonist Maulawi Nururdin, back in 1974. Even though Maulawi only recorded one record with his group, he had been a band leader since the sixties, playing with other Chicago based musicians like Jack DeJohnette, Richard Muhal Abrams, Amina Claudine Myers, as well as the group The Art Ensemble of Chicago. The album Maulawi features a nice blend of spiritual jazz, funk, and avant-garde undertones that make the mid-seventies record a very interesting and unique recording. Universal Sound, a sublabel of Soul Jazz Records, released a well put together re-issue of the Maulawi LP back in 2005, which might be a little easier to hunt down over the original release issued by Strata Records, Inc.. Overall, a solid track and amazing record definitely worth checking out. Enjoy!

Maulawi - Street Rap

Smiling Faces

2011-07-27T16:54:00.000-07:00

For those that didn't make it out to last Saturday's Go Bang! party, you certainly missed a fun night. I want to thank all the people that came out for the night, as well as resident deejays Sergio and Steve Fabus for having me play. If you are ever in San Francisco on the fourth Saturday of the month, you must get out and experience Go Bang!. Definitely one of the best disco parties I've ever deejayed and/or attended. I will be posting my deejay set from that night sometime later in the week so stay tuned…

Until then, here is the track that I opened my set with in Jazzy Jens' re-edit of The Undisputed Truth's funky 1971 classic "Smiling Faces Sometimes". This dancefloor friendly edit can be found on a twelve-inch release put out by G.A.M.M. (GAMM069) The re-edit twelve also features a solid Latin flavored edit on the B-side. Easily one of the better re-edit twelves of the year so far. As with almost all G.A.M.M releases, this record should move fast on shelves, therefore I highly recommend snatching it up while it's still in print. Enjoy!

The Undisputed Truth - Smiling Faces Sometimes (Jazzy Jens Re-Edit)

Horse Meat Disco III

2011-07-27T11:05:00.001-07:00

When it comes to throwing disco parties, there probably is nobody out there doing it better than the London based DJ collective Horse Meat Disco . For over seven years now resident DJs James Hillard, Jim Stanton, Severino, and Filthy Luka have been putting on packed residencies at The Eagle in London’s Vauxhall, Lux in Lisbon and Tape in Berlin. These incredible parties are inspired by the music and culture that surrounded the New York club scene during the 70's and early 80's. The DJ collective have once again teamed up with Strut Records to put out the third Horse Meat Disco compilation, full of rare disco gems and edits. This amazing compilation includes superb originals like T.S. Monk's "Candidate For Love", "Seconds" by Salsoul Orchestra feat. Loleatta Holloway, Two Tons of Fun's "Just Us", Idris Muhammad's "For You Love", and many others. The compilation also features a number of great edits including Todd Terje's reworking of Claudja Barry's "Sweet Dynamite", Ron Hardy’s famed and previously bootleg-only cut-up of First Choice’s “Let No Man Put Asunder, as well as a funky edit by Leftside Wobble titled "Grapevine Boogie". I highly recommend picking up a copy of this compilation, as it is easily one of the best disco compilations of the year.

Here is a very interesting video of Jim Stanton and James Hillard of London's Horse Meat Disco collective speak about the history of the 'sleaze' disco subgenre, and the UK's unique perspective on American dance music.

Purchase the Horse Meat Disco III compilation by clicking here.

Simbareré

2011-07-26T10:41:00.002-07:00

Let's get the week going with the funky Brazilian gem "Simbareré by the duo Antonio Carlos & Jocafi. This amazing track was featured on the group's 1972 album Cada Segundo and was later included on Strut's superb 2000 compilation Club Africa 2. A great track with a funky Afro groove. Enjoy!

Antonio Carlos & Jocafi - Simbareré

Go Bang! This Saturday!

2011-07-21T17:20:00.000-07:00

This Saturday July 23rd I will be a guest deejay at this month's Go Bang! party. We will be celebrating Paradise Garage Legend Larry Levan's birthday (which is actually on July 20). To pay tribute to the deejay pioneer, I'll be doing a full-blown seventies-era disco set that will include Levan favorites like The Peach Boys' "Don't Make Me Wait", Salsoul Orchestra's "How High", Sparkle's "Handsome Man, Logg's "I Know You Will", Double Exposure's "Ten Percent" alongside some more rare titles starting at midnight. A party not-to-be-missed!

To Learn more about this Saturday's Go Bang! party, visit the Facebook event page.

Guinéan Disco

2011-07-21T16:40:00.001-07:00

Here is a rare Afro funk gem titled "So I Si Sa" by the Guinéan based band Super Boiro Band. This funky track was released as a 45 RPM single back in 1974. The group went onto release a number of solid Afro-flavoured gems throughout the seventies including the full-length albums Niaissa & sa trompette, En super forme, and a self-titled record in 1975. The track "So I Si Sa" can also be found on the compilation Guinée 70 : The Discotheque Years, which is part of the African Pearls series put out by the French label Discograph. Enjoy!

Super Boiro Band - So I Si Sa

Telling Stories

2011-07-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

Here is the laid-back funky gem "Stories" by the group Chakachas. This rare cut was featured on the group's 1972 self-titled album and has a sound that is very much in the same vein as their notable disco classic "Jungle Fever", which was released around the same time. A perfect track to throw on during these warm summer months. Enjoy!

Chakachas - Stories

The Best of Quantic LP Revealed

2011-07-19T17:24:00.000-07:00

Resident designer for Sofrito Lewis Heriz has just recently revealed the upcoming artwork for the The Best of Quantic LP (shown above), which will be released this September off of Tru-Thoughts Recordings. You can pre-order a copy now be visiting the label's website. I'm also recommending, if you haven't already, check out some of the other artwork by Lewis Heriz which can be found at his website www.lewisheriz.com. In my opinion, he is right now producing some of the best event posters and LP covers out there.

Safari Music

2011-07-18T17:13:00.000-07:00

Let's start the week off with a funky tropical gem titled "Safari" by the Afro-funk group Ashantis. This mid-tempo Afro cut was featured on the group's amazing 1977 self-titled album. The record includes other great tracks like "Disco Play", "Everybody", and "Long Journey" just to name a few. Overall, a great track and a great record worth being included on anybody's wishlist. Enjoy!

Ashantis - Safari

Flight Of The Shaolin Afronauts

2011-07-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

As I've mentioned countless times over the past six months, 2011 has been a great year for funky new Afro-centric music. Many fresh new group's have been arriving on the scene with some solid new releases that have been nicely capturing the sound of seventies-era Afro funk and Afrobeat.

One of the best new Afro funk tracks of the year, in my opinion, is "Journey Through Time" by the group The Shaolin Afronauts. This funky track is featured on the group's superb debut album Flight of the Ancients, which was just released off the UK label Freestyle Records. The new LP features some other standout gems including "Kilimanjaro", "Shira", and the title track "Flight Of The Ancients" to name just a few. I find that many of the songs off the record have a sound that falls somewhere in between the heavy Afrobeat of Fela Kuti and the Ethio-Jazz grooves of Mulatu Astake. Definitely a new group and record worth checking out! Enjoy!

The Shaolin Afronauts - Journey Through Time

Calypsoul

2011-07-13T10:29:00.001-07:00

Even though a few years have past since it's release, I thought I would feature a track titled "The Little You Say" by The Revolution Of St. Vincent from one of my all-time favorite compilations in Calypsoul 70. This well crafted comp was released by Strut Records back in 2008 and features a funky collection of rare seventies-era gems from within the Caribbean region. Some of the highlights include Amral's Trinidad Cavaliers Steel Orchestra's version of Gwen McCrae’s "90% Of Me Is You", Duke's Afrobeat-flavored "Freedom in Africa", Juan Formel & Los Van Van's latin gem "A Ver Que Sale", Biosis Now's funky "Independent Bahamas", Boris Gardiner's psychedelic organ-based jam "Negril" and the superb disco cut by The Checkmates titled "Disco Groove". The compilation was compiled by Duncan Brooker, the man behind Strut’s Nigeria 70 selections. Unfortunately, this album was only released in CD/ Digital format, leaving us vinyl collectors scratching our heads. Hopefully the people over at Strut will possibly consider doing another edition of this Caribbean focused compilation in the future, with of course a vinyl format release. Regardless, there has been a number of amazing compilations that have been released over the past couple of years that have focused on this culturally and musically rich region, however there might not be a better compilation that has paid homage to the area's more dancefloor friendly gems than Calypsoul 70. Enjoy!

The Revolution Of St. Vincent - The Little You Say

Hell of an Act to Folow

2011-07-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

It's pretty much safe to say that Willie Bobo is easily one my favorite Latin-jazz artists. Throughout the sixties and seventies Bobo mastered the ability of fusing together Latin soul, boogaloo, jazz, and rhythmic funk grooves to produce many priceless classics. Here is one of my favorite gems from the legendary percussionist in "Always There". This funky gem was featured on Bobo's 1978 album Hell Of An Act To Follow. Even though I'm generally a bigger fan of Bobo's earlier material on albums like Spanish Grease, Juicy, and Succotash (featuring Herbie Hancock), "Always There"is easily one of his best tracks and most dancefloor friendly cuts. Enjoy!

Willie Bobo - Always There

The Seeds of Afro-Cuban Music

2011-07-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here is the all-time Afro-Cuban flavored jazz gem "Seeds" by The Sahib Shihab Quintet. This was the title track to the group's 1969 hard-to-find album, which generally these days goes for quite a bit of money. However, there is no arguing that it's a true gem certainly worth attempting to hunt down. Enjoy!

The Sahib Shihab Quintet - Seeds

Deb Sombo

2011-07-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

I won't be in front of the computer for much of the rest of the week, as I'm off to visit the amazing city of New Orleans. If anybody has any good suggestions as to record shops, restaurants, bars, and/or nightclubs I should check out on my upcoming trip, please feel free to fill up the comment box or send me an email. I would greatly appreciate it!

With that being said, I'm going to keep the rest of this week's posts short and sweet. Here is the funky jazz gem "Deb Sombo" by Jimmy McGriff. This track was originally featured on McGriff's 1970 album Something to Listen to. Easily my favorite track written by the soul-jazz organist. Enjoy!

Jimmy McGriff - Deb Sombo

The Messenger

2011-07-05T15:48:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe it's been over a month since the music world was shocked and sadden by the sudden passing of Gil Scott-Heron. As weeks have passed since his surprising death, there have been a number of tributes and dedications from many musicians, artists, deejays, and writers. I wanted to pay my respect to the legendary musician/ poet by featuring one of my favorite gems by Scott-Heron, a track he did back in 1974 with Brian Jackson titled "The Bottle". This amazing track was featured on the superb Strata-East released album Winter in America. For years now, this funky track has been an all-time favorite of mine. Just one of the many brilliant tracks Gil Scott-Heron released during his accomplished life. We will all certainly miss him, his music, and his message.

Gil Scott-Heron & Brian Jackson - The Bottle

TONIGHT: The Return of 'GROW UP'

2011-07-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hope to see everyone out tonight to help celebrate the return of GROW UP! For more information regarding tonight's party, check out the facebook event page.

Congo Call

2011-07-01T15:25:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in yesterday's post, I will soon be traveling to New Orleans for the first time therefore musically, I'm definitely in a "jazz" mindset. If anyone has any suggestions as to record shops, bars, restaurants, nightclubs I should check out, please email me or leave a note in the comments section.

With all of that being said, let's end the week with the funky spiritual jazz gem "Congo Call" by the Prince Lasha Quintet featuring alto Saxophonist Sonny Simmons. This brilliant track was featured on the group's 1963 hard-to-find album The Cry!. Along with Sonny Simmons on alto, the recording features Gary Peacock on bass, Gene Stone on drums, and is led by Prince Lasha on flute. The entire album is amazing from start to finish, so if you ever come across the original LP, I highly recommend making the wise decision of snatching it up. Enjoy the long weekend!

Prince Lasha Quintet feat. Sonny Simmons - Congo Call

GROW UP Returns Tues. July 5th

2011-07-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

After a long hiatus, I'm excited to announce that next Tuesday, July 5th, the monthly disco/boogie party Grow Up returns! Resident deejays Hotthobo, Fenstar, and myself (Pat Les Stache) will be hosting the party in it's new location of Amnesia (853 Valencia Street, San Francisco). There will be no cover, therefore there is no excuses to not come out have a drink and hear some funky boogie and disco gems!

To learn more about the night, check out the Grow Up Facebook event page by clicking here.

Tress-Cun-Deo-La

2011-06-30T15:20:00.001-07:00

With my first-time trip to New Orleans coming up, I thought I would post a track by one of my all-time favorite jazz artists Joe Henderson, titled "Tress-Cun-Deo-La". This funky jazz gem was featured on the tenor saxophonist's album Multiple, which was released back in 1973. This track represents just one of the many mind-blowing compositions recorded and released by Henderson during his lifetime. For those that enjoy "Tress-Cun-Deo-La", I highly recommend checking out a few of Henderson's seventies-era albums including In Pursuit of Blackness, Black is The Color, Canyon Lady, the 1970 live album At The Lighthouse …" and the record that he did with Alice Coltrane titled Elements. Absolutely brilliant work from one of jazz musics most prolific saxophone players. Enjoy!

Joe Henderson - Tress-Cun-Deo-La

Benin Boogie

2011-06-29T16:12:00.001-07:00

Here is the funky Afro-flavored cut "Vimado Wingnan" by Benin's own El Rego (also released under the alais El Rego Et Ses Commandos). This soulful gem was recently reissued as a 7" release by Daptone Records after Frank Gossner of Voodoo Funk hunt down the original release. The track also appears on the superb Analog Africa compilation Legends of Benin and will be featured on a full-length El Rego album to be released on Daptone later this year. Overall, El Rego recorded a number of amazing records during the sixties and seventies, however "Vimado Wingnan" might be the greatest of the bunch. Enjoy!

El Rego - Vimado Wingnan

Sol Clap On The Hudson

2011-06-28T17:14:00.001-07:00

Here is great new track "Sol Clap" by Quantic off of this year's Wonderwheel Recordings' EP compilation release Turntables On The Hudson Vol. 8: Reflecting Cielo. For those have been completely in the dark for the past decade, Quantic is a project by UK-born, producer Will Holland who now resides in California. Under the Quantic alias, Holland has released a number of quality releases that blend together various genres including soul, jazz, house, Latin, reggae, and cumbia. Some of my favorite releases from Quantic have come out in the past three years as he has worked with the multicultural band Combo Bárbaro. As a group, they have released a number of solid singles within the past two years including "Un Canto a Mi Tierra", "Caliventura Remixes EP", and the superb album Tradition in Transition. Overall, Quantic has proven with each and every release that he is one of the top and most creative producers releasing tropical-flavored dance records today. Enjoy!

Quantic - Sol Clap

Voodoo Blues

2011-06-27T17:44:00.000-07:00

Here is a great version of Marvin Gaye's soulful 1971 classic "Inner City Blues" by the German band leader and musician James Last. This funky and interesting rendition of the song was included on James Last's album Voodoo-Party, which was also released in 1971. The Voodoo-Party record represents one of Last's more obscure and funkier records. On this rendition of "Inner City Blues", Last does a nice job here giving the song a bit more of a laid back vibe led by the song's choir-style vocals that are very reminiscent of The Joubert Singers' Paradise Garage classic "Stand On The Word". James Last deserves much credit here for successfully taking an all-time Marvin Gaye classic and making it his own. Enjoy!

James Last - Inner City Blues

The Sound of a New Day

2011-06-23T17:57:00.001-07:00

About a year ago I posted Letta Mbulu's 1981 African Boogie classic "Kilimanjaro" (See Kilimandjaro Take Us Higher). Here is the 1980 version of the track, titled "Kilimandjaro Take Us Higher", that appeared on Mbulu's 1980 album Sound of a Rainbow. This track, even though very similar in arrangement, has a more soulful backing groove. I honestly don't prefer one version over the other, as I feel that both are solid tracks. I will be interested to hear which version everyone who visits this site prefers more. Enjoy!

Letta Mbulu - Kilimandjaro Take Us Higher

From Mighty Africa With Fury

2011-06-22T13:04:00.001-07:00

This week, Seun Anikulapo Kuti & Egypt 80 are releasing a great new record titled From Mighty Africa With Fury: Rise. This album, which follows the 2008 critically praised debut Many Things, features a number of heavy-hitting politically driven Afrobeat cuts including the high-energy gems "African Soldier", "You Can Run", "Mr. Big Thief", and the funky single "Rise". The record, which was produced by Brian Eno, is solid from start to finish, capturing the intensity and energy that was so present in all of his father, Fela Kuti's great recordings. I think anyone who listen's to this album will agree that this is easily one of the top records of 2011. Another great masterpiece that helps continue the Kuti family legacy. Enjoy!

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 - Rise

Click Here to purchase Seun Kuti & Egypt 80's new album From Mighty Africa With Fury: Rise.

Sofrito's "Jungle Magic" Now Available!

2011-06-22T10:36:00.000-07:00

The funky tropical crew Sofrito just released another great twelve-inch titled "Jungle Magic" (Previously discussed on this blog. See Jungle Magic). Click Here to purchase the new amazing 12" single. Definitely one of the year's best twelves!

Sofrito Super Singles 003 - Jungle Magic EP by sofrito

Afro Shakedown

2011-06-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

Much like last year, 2011 has been a great year for not only good African compilations, however a remarkable year for new Afro-centric releases. It seems like there are a lot of new groups popping up from all over the world that are carrying on the torch that artists like Fela Kuti, Ebo Taylor, Orchestre Poly-Rythmo, Tony Allen, and once held when ity came to funky African music . One of the best new Afro funk albums of the year is easily Ikebe Shakedown's debut self-titled LP. It's honestly hard to get better than this new album by the Brooklyn-based group. The record, which came out on Ubiquity Records, features some amazing uptempo gems like Tame The Beats, Don't Contradict, and the incredible single "Tujunga", as well as a heavy dose of some superb downtempo cuts like "Kumasi Walk", "The Viking", and "The Hold Up". Do yourself a favor and go purchase Ikebe Shakedown's new album, which is truly one of the true gems of 2011. Enjoy!

Ikebe Shakedown - Tujunga

Caribbean Cruise Music

2011-06-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

Here is the funky tropical gem "Voodoo" by Cyril Diaz & His Orchestra. This late fifties track, is just one the four amazing instrumental calypso songs found on this retrospective 10" record that was recently released by Soundway Records. This limited edition release features some of the best tracks from the Trinidad based band's two full-length records Calypso Carnival 1958 Vol. 1 and Caribbean Cruise With The Cyril Diaz Orchestra. I imagine this 10" release won't last long in record shops, therefore I highly recommend snatching up a copy soon. Enjoy!

Cyril Diaz & His Orchestra - Voodoo

Alchemy Of The Blues

2011-06-15T20:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the amazing instrumental version of the title track off Sarah Webster Fabio's 1976 album Jujus/Alchemy Of The Blues. This funky gem is one of the few instrumental tracks from the rare mid seventies record. That being said, this track is easily one of the funkiest songs I've ever come across. Brilliant work from the poet's solid back-up group, which featured a number of Febio's family members. Enjoy!

Sarah Webster Fabio - Alchemy Of The Blues (Instrumental)

Nightflight to Trinidad

2011-06-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

Here is the final track, titled "Nightflight to Trinidad", off of my recently released Cabana Disco Vol.05 12". The re-edit is an instrumental reworking of a rare Caribbean boogie gem that came out in 1981 (maybe the photo above will give you a hint).

For those that still haven't picked up a copy of Cabana Disco Vol.05, I wouldn't wait too much longer as the record is selling quickly in stores and there is no plans for a repressing at this time. That being said, I would still love to know what everyone thinks about the new release, so please fill free to leave your thoughts in the comments section. Enjoy!

Pat Les Stache - Nightflight to Trinidad

Purchase Cabana Disco Vol.05:
Juno Records (Sold Out!)
Piccadilly Records
Phonica Records
Fat City Records
Rough Trade Shops

Africa 2000

2011-06-09T18:28:00.001-07:00

Here's a great African disco gem in Bolo Bolo by the Cameroon singer, musicians, and arranger Kemayo (aka Elvis Kemayo). This funky track was featured on Kemayo's 1976 hard-to-find album Africa L'an 2000. Simply put, this is another great African disco track and full-length LP that is well worth being at the top of anybody's wishlist. Enjoy!

Kemayo - Bolo Bolo

African Zombie

2011-06-08T17:39:00.001-07:00

Here is Ephraim Uzomechina Nzeka's funky rendition of Fela Kuti's "Zombie". This African disco gem was originally released on Nzeka's very rare 1980 album Brother To Brother. The track was also more recently included on Comet Records' incredible compilation Bilongo - A Third Collection Of Modern Afro Rhythms, which is easily one of my favorite comps of all-time. Overall, Nzeka's does a nice job with the Afrobeat classic, speeding up the tempo a bit and giving the song a more disco feel. Simply a true African disco gem!

Ephraim Uzomechina Nzeka - Zombie

Merengues!

2011-06-07T09:39:00.000-07:00

With the summer pretty much in full effect, I thought I would post a tropical Cumbia-flavored cut titled "Maria" by Juan Campolargo. This track came from Campolargo's 1973 album Merengues! Merengues! Merengues! off the label Sounds of the Caribbean, a record I picked up about six months ago. I had very little knowledge about this release when I bought the record, however it turned out to be a nice find. With that being said, you can probably make an argument that the sleeve artwork itself makes the record worth owning. Regardless, it's nice complimentary track to go along with all the upcoming warm summer nights. Enjoy!

Juan Campolargo - Maria

The Future of African Music

2011-06-02T15:34:00.000-07:00

One of the most original and standout releases of 2011 comes from the 7-piece London based band Owiny Sigoma Band's, who have just recently released their debut full-length album on Gilles Peterson's label Brownswood Recordings. This project came together when Jess Hackett aka Elmore Judd, who is also the live keyboardists in the Gorillaz, traveled to Nairobi in Kenya and hooked up with Joseph Nyamungu, a traditional nyatiti player, and Charles Owoko, a heavy-backbeat percussionist. The group came together and produced a demo that eventually made it's way to Peterson, and the rest is history. The band's debut record combines traditional African music with funky dancefloor rhythms, that has an overall original feel. Peterson calls the album "a phat, wayward dance record with African leanings (that feels) completely right." Definitely one of the year's best releases. Enjoy!

Owiny Sigoma Band - Margaret Okudo - Dub

West Indie Funk

2011-06-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the tropical gem "Funky Stuff" by the group Dutch Rhythm, Steel & Show Band. This soulful cut was originally released back in 1975 off of the group's Soul, Steel & Show album and most recently included on the superb Trans Air Records compilation West Indie Funk, which features a number of rare funky Caribbean gems. For those that enjoyed Trans Air's first compilation release Disc'o'Lypso, I highly recommend checking out West Indie Funk. Some of the other highlights from the record include Syd Jones & The Troubadours' "Cardova", East Side Symphony's "Hot Pants Road", The Esso Trinidad Steel Band's steel drum-infused cover of the Jackson 5's "I Want You Back" and The Troubadours' heavy-hitting psychedelic gem "No Names Bar". Overall, West Indie Funk is a great release that brings together some of the most rare and obscure tropical-flavored titles from the Caribbean region. Enjoy!

Dutch Rhythm, Steel & Show Band - Funky Stuff

Crosstown Traffic

2011-05-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a great new Afrobeat rendition of Jimi Hendrix's 1968 "Crosstown Traffic" classic by the group Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra. This funky Afro cut was released as a 7" single about a year ago on the Leeds based label First Word Records. The 7" single represents the first release from the group, which in November went on to put out their debut self-titled full-length album. Certainly a new school Afrobeat group worth checking out. Enjoy!

Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra - Crosstown Traffic

You can purchase Ariya Astrobeat Arkestra's 7" release of "Crosstown Traffic" by clicking here

Jungle Magic

2011-05-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

About a week ago, Hugo Mendez from the Sofrito crew kindly shared with me their newest single titled the Jungle Magic EP. This new 12" release, which will be out in a couple of weeks, features two superb new Nigerian disco edits. The A-side track is a reworking of Benis Cletin's rare 1979 Afro synth gem "Jungle Magic", while the B-side cut "Money Makes Man Mad" is a funky slice of Afro disco that is primed perfectly for the dancefloor. With any of the Sofrito releases, I assume this new twelve won't last long in record shops once it drops, therefore I highly recommend snatching this new release up as soon as it comes out. Just as the weather begins to warm up, Sofrito drops another dose of tropical heat! Enjoy!

Sofrito Super Singles 003 - Jungle Magic EP by sofrito

Afro-Colombian Funk

2011-05-26T17:48:00.000-07:00

As long as we are talking about trombone led groups, here is funky cut by the Colombian group La Tromba titled "Calaba Calabao". This track was originally featured on the group's 1982 hard-to-find self-titled album and more recently included on Soundway Records' superb compilation Palenque Palenque: Champeta Criolla & Afro Roots In Colombia 1975-91, which I highly recommend checking out. Overall, "Calaba Calabao" is a great track that nicely blends together elements of seventies era sounding Latin and African funk . Enjoy!

La Tromba - Calaba Calabao

Freedom Train

2011-05-24T20:33:00.000-07:00

Here is the funky Afro jazz gem "Freedom Train" by Feso Trombone (aka Fesobi Olawaiye). This uptempo cut was the title track to the trombonist's 1980 rare full-length album. This is one of the record's Feso cut after he left Nigeria and moved to Belguim to pursue a solo career. Before moving to Belguim, Feso got his start by playing with Fela Kuti. Overall, "Freedom Train" is a solid track that nicely blends together Afro funk with some nice instrumental trombone-led melodies. Enjoy!

Feso Trombone - Freedom Train

Move Up

2011-05-23T21:25:00.000-07:00

Here is the funky Afro gem "Move Up" by the group BLO. This soulful cut was featured on the group's classic 1976 albym Phase IV which features a number of great tracks including "Trace Of Suicide", "Scandi Boogie", and the classic breakdance gem "Number One". On a side note, I originally posted this song about a week ago, however due to recent technical issue, the post was removed because of a "roll-back" by Blogger. The track had only been up on the blog for about a day, therefore I thought it would be worth re-posting. As a special bonus, I also included the funky "Number One". Enjoy!

BLO - Move Up

BLO - Number One

I Thought It Was You

2011-05-19T18:11:00.001-07:00

I thought I would keep it simple today and post an all-time boogie gem in "I Thought It Was You" by Herbie Hancock. This funky classic was featured on Herbie's 1978 album Sunlight. There is no argument that Herbie Hancock is a true legend that throughout his remarkable career has proven that he is always a step ahead of just about everyone else out there. His pre-boogie masterpiece "I Thought It Was You" is just another example of doing just this, writing a track that other producers and musicians could even dream of coming up with until about five years later during the early eighties. Regardless, just another classic from one of the greatest musicians to probably walk this earth. Enjoy!

Herbie Hancock - I Thought It Was You

Roots of Life

2011-05-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

Here is the funky Afro-flavored cut "Ma Do Nar" by the production tag-team Los Chicharrons. I just recently heard this group, which is led by Ramon Santana and Morten Varano, a few months ago for the first time and was completely blown away by their newest full-length release Roots Of Life. This new album, which was released by Tummy Touch Records, came to light when Morten traveled to Bamako in Mali and hooked up with a number of local musicians to help lay the foundation for the album's overall instrumental sound. The finishing touches to the full-length release were later applied in some production sessions in Copenhagen and London. Overall, the new Los Chicharrons album is a superb new release that nicely brings together elements of Afro funk, house, and disco while not losing the albums traditional Mali inspiration. I highly recommend checking out this new release!

Los Chicharrons - Ma Do Nar

Listen to more tracks from Los Chicharrons' Roots of Life album and more by Clicking Here.

More Cabana Disco

2011-05-16T20:51:00.000-07:00

As the fifth volume of Cabana Disco continues to make it's way to record stores worldwide, I thought I would feature the A-side re-edit off the new twelve, titled "African Olé". This edit comes from one of my favorite African disco records of all-time which I picked up when I was in Paris last summer. I tried to add a "summer-beach" feel to the funky Afro cut. I look forward to hearing everyone's feedback. Enjoy!

Pat Les Stache - African Olé

Purchase Cabana Disco vol.05 here:
Juno Records
Piccadilly Records
Phonica Records
Fat City Records
Rough Trade Shops

Sweet Music

2011-05-13T09:53:00.001-07:00

This week Strut released the third volume to their pioneering Nigeria 70 series with a funky batch of seventies Afro funk, Highlife, and Juju gems in this new compilation titled Sweet Music. This compilation, which was compiled by series curator Duncan Brooker, continues in the same great spirit as the past two releases in the series by digging deep into Nigeria's forgotten label archives and highlighting some of the regions lost treasures. Each song is very different from the next, as group's across the region at this time began to experiment with fusing many different sounds which crossed over into many sub-genres. Some of the records best cuts include Tunde Mabadu's "Viva Disco", Admiral Dele Abiodun & His Top Hitters International's "It's Time For Juju Music", Eji Oyewole's "Unity In Africa", Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey & His International Brothers' "Ajoyio", and my personal favorite Moneyman And The Super 5 International's "Life". Overall, Sweet Music is a solid new compilation and great new addition to the always superbly crafted Nigeria 70 series. Enjoy!

Moneyman And The Super 5 International - Life

Purchase Nigeria 70: Sweet Music by Clicking Here.

More from the Tiger Orchestra

2011-05-10T18:10:00.001-07:00

Over the past year, the funky Ethio jazz band Imperial Tiger Orchestra has quickly become one of my favorite new groups. This Switzerland band quickly caught my attention with last year's superb Addis-Abeba EP. Fresh off that critically acclaimed record, the group has just released their debut full-length titled Mercato. This solid new album begins where the last EP left us, with a heavy dose of Ethio jazz and funk that is in the same vein as some of music written by the genres greatest artists like Mulatu Astatke, Mahmoud Ahmed, and others. Some of my favorite tracks off this new album include "Yedao", "Anchi Bale Game", "Demamaye" and the uptempo groove gem "Lale Lale". Overall, Imperial Tiger Orchestra has followed up last year's ep with another brilliant release that helps pay homage to Ethio jazz's golden age.

Imperial Tiger Orchestra - Lale Lale

Cabana Disco Vol.05 - Now in Stores!

2011-05-09T09:03:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce that my new twelve-inch re-edit record Cabana Disco vol.05 has finally made it's way to record shops worldwide. This new twelve follows in the same footsteps of the rest of the Cabana Disco series, featuring three new funky edits that include the seventies Afro disco cut "African Ole, the heavy-hitting Italian funk gem "Funk Suprema", and the Caribbean boogie track "Nightflight to Trinidad". An interesting side note to this release is that songs re-edited on this release were taken from a selection of rare material that I found during my trip last summer to Paris. Just like the rest of the volumes in the series, this record is limited to only 300 copies, therefore I recommend snatching up a copy while they still last. I look forward to hearing everyone's thought and comments about this new release.

Here's Preview
A1 - African Olé
B2 - Funk Suprema (full audio mp3)
B3 - Nightlife to Trinidad

Purchase Cabana Disco vol.05 here:
Juno Records
Piccadilly Records
Phonica Records
Fat City Records
Rough Trade Shops

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

2011-05-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Cinco de Mayo! I apologize that I don't have any authentic Mexican tracks to share, however here is a number of funky Latin gems that should go nicely with the rest of your celebratory festivities. What is your favorite Latin track of the bunch?

Seguida - Mambo Rock

Nico Gomez & His Afro Percussion Inc. - La Lupita

The Latin Percussion Jazz Ensemble - The Opener

Melvyn Price - Behind Kungsträdgarden

Ocho - Hot Pants Road

Pucho & His Latin Soul Brothers - Inside The Corn

Man on the Banks

2011-05-04T09:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a funky track from German violinist Hannes Beckmann's group Sinto titled "Man On The Banks". This Latin flavored cut was released back in 1978 off the group's album Sonho Negro, and recently re-issued as a seven-inch single by Tramp Records. The song itself, is kind of interesting as it basically sounds like two songs mixed together with the beginning of the track starting off with laid back funk groove only to move into a full scale uptempo Latin jam. I can certainly see a good edit coming out of the re-working of the song's more laid back introduction. Until then, it's safe to say that most of us will be just fine with the uniquely arranged original. Enjoy!

Sinto - Man on the Banks

Jungle by Night

2011-05-03T09:20:00.000-07:00

This month Amsterdam's Afro-funk band Jungle by Night is releasing their highly anticipated debut self-titled album off of the label Kindred Spirits. This record features a number of great tracks including funky Afro-flavored gems like "Hot Mama Hot", "Termite", "Camel" and Mongo Santamaria's Latin jazz classic "Afro Blue". Many people have anticipated this full length release ever since the group released their debut 7" single ET. The group certainly didn't disappoint, hence releasing one of the year's best albums to date. Enjoy!

Jungle by Night - Afro Blue

OSAMA BIN LADEN KILLED

2011-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

With this breathtaking news of the killing of Osama Bin Laden, I think it would be appropriate to bypass today's music post and spend the day remembering those that died on 9/11/2001, as well as all the military service members who have given their lives to help fight terrorism around the world.

"Justice has been done." - United States President Barack Obama

UPDATED: I removed the comments and the ability to add comments to this post. This is a music blog and I don't want a heated conversation to break out on this site unless it's to discuss Arthur Russell's greatest recording :) That being said, I thought it was appropriate to recognize this monumental moment in history.

Tomorrow it's back to music, so please check back then!

The Funky Sounds of Mr. President

2011-04-28T18:44:00.000-07:00

After a number of solid singles over the last few years, Mr. President (aka Bruno "Patchworks" Hovart has released a full-length album titled Number One. The funky soulful record includes many of the singles he's released over last few years including "Meet Again", "The Best Is Yet To Come", "Love & Happiness" as well as a slew full of new funky cuts like "From South to North", "Tribute to RZA", "Left & Right", "Get it Sometime" and many others. The album features a number of great vocalists including Mr. Day, Hawa, JRMNM, and Mounam. The whole album has a solid vintage soul and heavy funk groove throughout with plenty of catching vocal hooks that will have just about anyone singing out loud for days. In all, Bruno Hovart, once again under the Mr. President alias, has put together another well-crafted release, resulting in one of the best albums of the year. Enjoy!

Mr. President Feat. Mr. Day - Meet Again

Click Here to purchase Mr. President's new album Number One.

The New Sound of 1974

2011-04-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

Right now there is a lot of great new funky and experimental jazz music coming out of Finland and Ricky-Tick Records is one of the big reasons for this recent regional jazz explosion. Over the last half-decade, the label has been highlighting the countries growing jazz scene by releasing a number of great records by Finnish artists like Astro Can Caravan, Timo Lassy, The Five Corners Quintet, Auteur Jazz, Dalindèo, and many others. One of my favorite musicians on Ricky-Tick is trumpet and flugelhorn player Jukka Eskola. Along with playing in The Five Corners Quintet, Jukka has released a couple of solo albums and a few singles including the amazing 2009 LP Walkover. One of my favorite tracks by the Finnish musician has to be the funky jazz gem "1974" which was released as a single back in 2004, as well as included on his self-titled debut the following year. If your one of those individuals that are desperately seeking out to find great new modern jazz music that tend to stretch the boundaries outside of your typical "jazz standard", I highly recommend first seeking out many of the artists on the Ricky-Tick label like Jukka Eskola, as they continue to help shape the future of jazz music. Enjoy!

Jukka Eskola - 1974