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Everland

  • 01. On Old Broadway
    02. Toma Guajira
    03. Look To Me
    04. You Put A Hurt In My Heart
    05. Rhythm And Soul
    06. Mojo Shingling
    07. Barbara With The Kooky Eyes
    08. Tell Her I Love Her
    09. Let Me Do My Thing
    10. Come Live With Me
    11. Rose Marie With The Funny Knees
    12. Hey Mama
    13. Lost In The Jungle
    cover

    107th STREET STICKBALL TEAM

    Saboreando, Pot Full Of Soul

    [engl] This is a band project from the late 1960s with a very young Bobby Marin, a leading figure in the invention of BOOGALOO music, a cocktail of Latin music, Rhythm & Blues, Soul and Rock’n’Roll oft he day clearly geared towards the western pop music that made the top of the charts. As he grew up on 107th Street in Harlem / NYC he and his mates played a game called Stickball during the day which is a street variation of baseball originating from the New York area while at night he rehearsed with a doo wop ensemble named THE LATIN CHORDS and others from his team got together in a percussion group in buildings on the opposite site of the street. It was no miracle that both groups soon merged into one act that became the 107TH STREET STICKBALL TEAM producing this sole LP in 1969 with a 7“ decoupled probably upfront that featured the two album tracks „On old Broadway“ and „Mojo shingaling“. Well shaped originals of the full length vinyl go for 200,00 € now as a mono pressing, while even those which fetch lower prices never fall beyond 100,00 €. Therefore this reissue on Everland Records suits us fans of outstanding 1960s music fairly well with even four bonus tracks added that band leader Marin unearthed from his personal vaults. This is clearly a typical album in the field of BOOGALOO music of the later 1960s. Western popular music such as beat with British roots, American soul music with lush arrangements and orchestration and the well known elements of bossa nova, salsa, cha cha cha and merengue team up in an exciting sound that gave us some very intense albums during the short span of it’s real popularity in between 1966 and 1969 around NYC but also far out in the latin world. The anthems of one’s life in the Bronx or in Harlem given by the likes of Tito Puente could be felt pouring out of the relaxed, yet intensely pulsating rhythms from drums and percussion on this record while the melodic constructions on top of this groundwork were either soul inspired such as with the hauntingly dreamy opener „On old broadway“ with a great pop appeal and beautiful horn section and vocal arrangements, had a bluesy approach such as the ballad „Look to me“ in three – quarter time at first but adopting a latin melody and cha cha cha beat towards the end of the song or showed a 1960s pop beat affinity with the vocal melodies on top of a bed of ever grooving mid paced salsa rhythms with powerful horns accompanying the basic structures as you can hear it in the two minute shorty you put a hurt in my heart. But this was only one side oft he coin. There were even more traditional latin songs to be found here which were even sung in Spanish. „Toma Guajira“ could easily be an evergreen on the dancefloor in every bar in Havanna. The mixture was breathtaking for you did not get away from dancing and twirling to the enthralling rhythms upon which sometimes the instruments could take a frantic path such as the organs or the saxophone in the soul inspired instrumental „Barbara with the kooky eyes“, which has this typical late 60s atmosphere. Wherever you put the needle in the groove the music will grab you by the heart and legs. The four bonus tracks fit well with the original album and if you would not know they were added only for this reissue you would never realize they would have stayed unreleased for about 50 years. „Come live with me“ is a hot blooded latin groover with a late 50s soul and doo wop feel merged with cumbia and salsa elements. The melodies drag you straight into the clubs of Cuba’s capital. „Rosemary with the funny knees“ is rather modern soul pop and Northern soul of the day in which more of these Cuban aspects appear for a moment but with the late 60s sound prevailing. It feels like the band drifts from one one world into the other and back without losing a beat. „Hey mama“ is a cross of 60s doo wop vocal music and Latin sounds that makes up a prototypical boogaloo style dance floor sweeper. „Lost in the jungle“ adds some 1950s exotica elements to the haunting 60s pop with latin rhythm groundwork and once more frantic performances from the horns and the singers make it an instant classic. I could go on raving about this album but instead I recommend to buy a copy of the reissue and get the full boogaloo experience. If I should limit myself to only one record from this style it would certainly be this.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    15.10.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183734
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    15.10.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184236
     
  • 01. (I Want To Be) Whatever It Takes To Please You
    02. Overdose Of Love
    03. The Love I Need
    04. Didn't I Fool You?
    05. You Made A Believer Out Of Me
    06. Good 'N Plenty
    07. You Ole Boo Boo You
    08. Just Lovin' You
    09. My Love Is Comin' Down
    10. Hound Dog
    cover

    ANDREWS, RUBY

    Black Ruby

    [engl] Although for the longest time she has been a Chicago resident, Ruby Andrews’s wonderfully dramatic vocals sounds like straight from the deep south of the USA. Actually, that is where she was born in Hollandale, Mississippi, in 1947. She recorded at least six albums that are each highly treasured by soul and funk fans all over the world. Black Ruby, the brilliant second LP from this marvelous soulsinger first appeared on the Zodiac label in 1972. Just one minor nationally charted hit came off the LP. But as a whole it is even more revered than her hit-laden predecessor among soul aficionado’s. It’s considered an exemplary classic of a deep- and Chicago-soul album. The music has re-appeared some times in one form or another but the LP was never before fully reissued on high quality vinyl! Everland is thus very proud to re-present the Black Ruby album in closest to original format with that beautifully designed and shiny psychedelic album cover. A true Gem indeed.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    15.06.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183963
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    27.07.2018
     
  • 01. Just Loving You
    02. The Love I Need
    cover

    ANDREWS, RUBY

    Just Loving You / The Love I Need

    [engl] A beautiful reissue of a landmark 7“ release of 1968 and a duty to take home for every soul mate out there! This wonderful 7“ single got released in 1968,it includes two songs sang by Ruby Andrews, an outstanding soul singer oft the late 1960s. The A side is a mid paced easy grooving soul pop, that lives from the intense vocal performance of Mrs. Andrews and the lush arrangements with horns and strings. It is a song that hits the pulse of the era and could not have grown anytime else. The B Side is a slow dance with a three quarters stroke and vocal arrangements that present deep emotions.Great music that has the accessibility to become an instant pop hit but also the substance to stay with the listener and fan of the 60s black music for a life time. Enjoy!
    Format
    7''
    Release-Datum
    06.09.2018
     
  • 01. Love Song
    02. Norwegian Wood/Eleanor Rigby
    03. Corazon
    04. You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
    05. Reach Out
    06. Wild Flower
    07. I’m Gonna Love You Just A Little More Baby (Deeper And Deeper)
    08. Zanzibar
    09. Summertime
    10. Day By Day
    cover

    BACK EAST

    Day By Day

    [engl] There have always been countless music acts that appeared and disappeared within the wink of an eye in whatever style and scene one can imagine. And not only since the independent record label became a trendy way to release albums in the 1980s, but also way before already. One small label effort was “Day by day”, the only album by American band BACK EAST, at least I consider it a band as the music has this natural flow and great feeling. That’s what I call a sweet obscurity: recorded in 1974 and released in 1975, original copies fetch prices up to 300 US$ and I am really happy that EVERLAND MUSIC gave it a proper reissue finally, for this album is worth being known by a wider audience. It starts with “Love song”, a dreamy soul pop tune with an addictive vocal melody and very gently sounding arrangements. The song proclaims that “Love is the only thing” and I agree with BACK EAST. Next comes a freaky BEATLES cover “Norwegian wood / Eleanor Rigby” and while many bands either just replay the original with no creative input of their own, BACK EAST make both BEATLES classics their very own and fuse them into a haunting piece of music. Slightly jazz influenced Latin pop joins the colorful dance in shape of a song named “Corazon”. Next on the list are coverversions of “You are the sunshine of my life” by Stevie Wonder and “Reach out (I’ll be there)” by THE FOUR TOPS with the first one being at least close to the original melody wise, only a bit slowed down with a more dreamy atmosphere, the latter one has been made their very own once more. Slowed down, softened but still with the depth of utter devotion to the cause of the song. The jazzy arrangements in all these songs, the swirling piano and slightly uneven beats build the hooks which will moor each song within your soul. We reached the End of Side A and turn over the piece of vinyl and face a chanson of the highest order with a melody so bittersweet that it will bring tears to your eyes. It gets a more pop oriented expression towards the chorus but it stays deeply melancholic throughout the whole duration. “I’m gonna love you just a little more Baby (deeper and deeper)” is also a rather soft and dreamy pop song with female vocals and the male singer joining in during the chorus. It has this flowery late 60s atmosphere that brings pictures oft he Woodstock Art and Music Fair to my mind, but also shows a certain urban club feeling. All in all a very relaxed song that gets slightly more energetic later on with a cool organ solo in the middle section. “Zanzibar” then has a rather exotic title and a thrilling, dark atmosphere. It comes as an up paced exotic jazz number with the piano as leading instrument. And it falls out of place actually for it drags you back to the late 1950s sound and performance wise. But the electric guitar tells us it is not that old by the time of it’s release. Anyway, this song stands out as a welcome oddity on this actually rather dreamy pop album and wakes you up with it’s sheer intensity. Still a catchy tune despite the jazz influence. But soon after we fall back into the dreamy state. “Summertime”, the world famous Gershwin composition has been transformed into a playful, yet relaxed jazz pop tune with amazing female vocals. The lead melody stays as it is, just the arrangements differ to other well known coverversions such as the one by THE ZOMBIES. A lengthy instrumental section with more uneven rhythms and great dialogue between guitar and piano makes this one a truly awesome interpretation of a classic tune. In the middle section the song takes a new direction for a moment that even brings to mind some atmospheric psychedelic pop music from around 1967. And it moves me, it deeply moves me. The title track then closes the album with an engaging latin rhythm (mambo, I believe) and upon this upbeat groove an intriguing vocal melody. Jazz and pop flow gently into another on this album, it sounds like swing being upgraded by adding then modern soul pop to the cocktail. And this cocktail is highly addictive. A really mellow and gentle album with only a few more energetic moments, but it comes with a deep and thick atmosphere that brings pictures to your mind. I have not heard many records that were that beautiful in the true sense of the word. I wonder why this album sank nearly without a trace to become such a collectors item, while it should have been an evergreen among fans of soulful flower pop.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184632
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184649
     
  • 01. Alpha And Omega
    02. Soul Fever
    03. Unqualified
    04. Guns For Freedom
    05. Love And Peace
    06. Get Up And Dance
    cover

    BENIS CLETIN

    Alpha & Omega

    [engl] In the mid eighties FM radio stations took over the airwaves in Nigeria. They wanted fresh new styles to play andin creasingly radio personalities like Bisi Olatilo, Ruime Effetie and Shea Martins were turning to reggae. Nigeria’s Freak Father Number One, Benis Cletin, saw the writing on the wall and created his deeply philosophical roots reggae opus, ‘Alpha & Omega’. Benis delivered a set of songs that tapped unashamedly into reggae’s message of peace and love. The title track is a philosophical opus on the state of the world and how to live in it. ‘Unqualified’ warns against letting others tell you how to live. ‘Guns for Freedom’ is more militant call to arms, undercut by a lilting flute line from the legendary Eji Oyewole. Benis didn’t completely abandon his freaky, funky roots. ‘Soul Fever’ is a slab of synth-driven boogie and ‘Get Up And Dance’ is pure funk with that typical Benis freak edge. But overall, ‘Alhpa and Omega’ is designed to soothe the minds of the oppressed in this unjust world - an African roots reggae classic that sounded great on FM radio.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    06.09.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473191234
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    06.09.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473191227
     
  • 01. Make your body dance
    02. Bulky backside
    03. Get that groove in
    04. Suspicion
    05. Neutron bag
    06. No more brother
    07. Loving caring
    08. Roots
    cover

    BLO

    Bulky Backside - BLO Is Back

    [engl] In opposite to other Nigerian acts which hardly got known beyond the borders of their homeland, BLO were always very popular in the Western world. Accompanying Ginger Baker of CREAM fame was the first step to break them into the western popular music market of the 70s and what followed could be called an African fairy tale. Still this, their fifth album from 1979, waited a long time for a proper reissue, especially on hot black wax with originals in good conditions fetching prices of 300 € and more. EVERLAND MUSIC had merci with the fans of pure late 70s disco funk who adore such killer units as EARTH, WIND & FIRE or HOT CHOCOLATE or probably the then modified TEMPTATIONS which all were leading figures of the real music department in the disco scene. If you say tight, you gotta mean „tight“. Every groove, every note, every harmony sits where it should sit to drive the tune itself further and further with an everflowing energy that hits the legs and the soul of the listener. The tunes are all memorable and you will find yourself humming along those melodies even if the black vinyl is not spinning on your turntable. A goal hardly achieved by the masses of late 1970s disco funk projects. You see, these cats are a real unit, real musicians with an aim aside from just making money. Still this is music to escape harsh reality to. The slick and crisp production helps to make each song swallowing your thoughts and refilling your mind with a flush of colours. The feeling is glamourous and silky, the music ensnares your spirit and cloaks you while your body moves constantly on through the whole time this record spins and spins. Technically well performed, written with a great hand for catchiness, these potential hit songs should be known by each and every fan of 1970s disco funk.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    18.12.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184991
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    18.12.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473185004
     
  • 01. I'm Not Responsible
    02. Something
    03. You Move Me
    04. Please Don't Leave Me
    05. I'll Still Be There
    06. Baby You're Right
    07. Turn Around, Look At Me
    08. I'm In Love
    09. Have I
    10. The China Doll
    cover

    BROWN, ALEX

    In Search Of Love

    [engl] This extremely well crafted LP from 1970 is like a holy grail for sixties soul lovers. Just a few hundred promo-only copies were pressed on the Sundi label at the time and clean originals now fetch at least four figure sums. Singer-songwriter Alexandra Brown has worked extensively as a back-up singer with Ray Charles as member of the Raeletts and Monk Higgins with whom she wrote and recorded many tracks for his albums and soundtrack projects. Higgins also arranged, conducted, produced and co-wrote this amazingly great LP, incredibly Alex’ one and only solo album. This is absolutely the first ever official re-release and also the very first time in CD format. It comes in pristine sound quality drawn from the best known original sources.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    15.06.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183703
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    27.07.2018
     
  • 01. Bitchin
    02. Hopscotch
    03. In A Funky Way
    04. Two Is One
    05. In His Presence Searching
    cover

    CHARLES ROUSE

    Two Is One

    [engl] A massive jazzrock album in the vein of SOFT MACHINE; MILES DAVIS and THE MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA which even resembles German Krautrock acts from time to time. A colorful cocktail of many influences from funk and soul to free jazz, Indian and Eastern European traditional music kept together by the brilliant saxophone play of leader Charles Rouse.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    15.10.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183796
     
  • 01. Punish Me
    02. Steal Your Love Away
    03. Loving You Is So Easy
    04. Our Love Is Special
    05. Rushing To Meet You
    06. Woman
    07. Your Love Is Like The Morning Sun
    08. Steal Your Love Away
    09. Rushing To Meet You
    cover

    CLYDIE KING

    Steal Your Love Away / Rushing To Meet You

    [engl] SHORT: This is certainly one of the best produced and arranged records of the 1970s soul funk era with a whiff of a disco flavor and some of the greatest songs that were ever written in this genre. But this is also one of the least known and best hidden jewels waiting to be discovered by the legions of fans loving mid to late 70s soul queens such as Donna Summer, Diana Ross, Gloria Gaynor or the mighty Supremes. Reissued in the two original versions on Everland Music. A must have! DETAILS: Clydie King originally released a couple of solo singles from her early teens in the late 50s onward before she worked as one of these many more or less nameless session musicians providing backing vocals for many releases of which a few went to eternal fame such as “Sweet home Alabama” by LYNYRD SKYNYRD or the “Exile on Mainstreet” album by the ROLLING STONES. Along with this supposedly fairly well paid session work also for Linda Ronstadt, Diana Ross, Supremes or Ray Charles, with whom she already cooperated as member of the Raelettes, she was able to record a few albums worth of her own material in the 70s. “Rushing to meet you” was first released in 1976 and got a second release under the title “Steal our love away” with a different cover and song order in 1977, the first version on Tiger Lily Records, the second one on Baby Grand Records. We can tell that the original Baby Grand version in good shape fetches prices up to 450 US$ these days in splendid shape and one could get the idea the first issue on Tiger Lily Records might be even more scarce and therefore expensive when it turns up. Everland Music now brings us relief with a beautiful reissue in both original layouts. So much for a cool reissue but who will go wild for this record’ Well, fans of slick, well crafted 1970s soul and funk music with pop flavor, who love memorable songs and a steaming performance that either gets you rocking and rolling within the walls of your home more like a mad dog rather than an Englishman ” pun intended as Clydie King performed with the ensemble that accompanied Joe Cocker on the tour in support of his “Mad dogs and Englishmen” album ” or sitting back to let the music pour into your soul. These tunes really go with the hot stuff of their time but have enough depth, edges and landmark moments to stand out from the faceless masses. Made for eternity but lost in the mists of time, a fate that many of the greatest records met since the invention of vinyl albums. But I digress. Some tunes are up paced and powerful, some have a rather mellow atmosphere with haunting melodies, all of them though showcase the extraordinary voice of Clydie King, who would not need to hide behind the soul and disco legends such as Diana Ross, Gloria Gaynor, Donna Summer or Linda Ronstadt, to throw in a white 70s pop great as comparison. But who dares to compare Clydie King to all these ladies’ It would not even scratch the surface concerning style and expression of Clydie King, it would not let you know a tiny percentage of her talent and magic. As with many rock albums that disappeared quicker than they had been issued, these 12? of soul give most popular mainstream releases of their era a run for the money. The whole piece of art will please the listener due to its vibrant production, which makes the music feel like being played by a band plus string and brass sections right now in this moment with Clydie King’s intense crooning topping it as the icing on the cake. This album will definitely ask for repeated listens, for the fan of 70s soul funk music will get addicted to these everlasting songs within the wink of an eye. I love to use the term “lush” to describe the way the music on such albums in the late 70s was arranged by the producers but this is a level only the greatest men behind the recording desks were able to achieve. There is no favorite track here for me, since all of the songs give me goosebumps. This is music that shows fire, passion and dedication, despite having commercial potential of the highest level. If this is your style, go no further. You have found what you always wanted to bring musical joy to your home.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    22.03.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183758
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    22.03.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184250
     
  • 01. Funk Some More
    02. Life Aint’ Nothin’ But A Groove
    03. Don’t Take Your Love Away
    04. Party Down
    05. You’re The One
    06. Lady Fair
    07. I Really Dig You
    08. Inner Flight (Thru Your Mind)
    09. I Don’t Wanna Lose Your Love
    10. Joy To The World
    11. Star Wars (bonus song)
    12. Space Dancin’ (bonus song)
    cover

    COOK COUNTY...

    Released

    [engl] Zach Prather is a prolific guitarist and blues man who nowadays lives in Switzerland and has worked his hands to the bone with legends such as Curtis Mayfield, Willie Dixon or Mick Jagger in the past 50 years. In 1978 he teamed up with another producer, prolific blues man Cash McCall, with whom he ventured into funky dance music in a project named COOK COUNTY, after the US county in which Chicago lies and which features an infamous prison. You can assume that the project name and album title “Released” are a pun directed towards this jailhouse and the prison cell on the cover will prove that. Listening to the album one might not really think about the tough life in prison but more of a joyful time on a giant white luxury yacht cruising the ocean, or a steamy night in a noble club in Chicago. The music has power and style but comes clothed into a smooth and silky sound garment. The songs are memorable and accessible pieces of funk and pop with soulful melodies and rich vocals that showcase a very precise interplay of the instrumentalists, probably nameless, yet excellent studio musicians. The performance is hot blooded here for sure and the atmosphere is sweaty and filled with passion, still there is this Funk music, no matter if played with the intention to reach a widespread audience, is sheer passion as it moves you with its good vibrations. Zach and Cash have achieved exactly this aim, to move people, to make people happy just listening to their songs. Thing is that “Released” only saw the light of day as a promo back in 1978 and barely shows up these days. Over the past years the albums was sold only 2 times, once for 1700 USD and once for 2700 USD. But which fan of funk and soul with a pop appeal would ever give away such a true gem’ The brass section sounds like a modernized version of SLY & THE FAMILY STONE, wild, furious and gifted with writing, exciting melody lines upon classic funk tunes. This is as classic as funk can get actually and stands on the same level at eye height with Betty Davis, the aforementioned Sly Stone and later acts like HOT CHOCOLATE, which were certainly more pop oriented but still steaming in every aspect. A sweet reissue on Everland Music for all those who walk the funky way.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    12.10.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184472
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184489
     
  • cover

    DANSER'S INFERNO

    Creation One

    [engl] ?Creation One? is a stunning eight track, jam packed album, so elusive but full of pure joy! Invigorating, stimulating, delightful, a treasure of rhythms grooves and breaks! ?Sombre Guitar? is the favourite to many, especially DJs! In the 1970?s, composer and multi-instrumentalist John Danser formed Danser?s Inferno, a funky Jazz-Rock-Fusion band, an ensemble of 14 very talented musicians. At age 14 John Danser emigrated from London and established himself in New York City where he earned a master?s degree in music at the Manhattan school of music. In his early years, Danser played in classical as well as jazz gigs, simultaneously arranging and composing. He later went on to have an extensive musical career and at one point served as a bandleader at Concord hotel, during the Borscht Belt era, where he played for Sammy Davis jr., Milton Berle, Bob Hope and Judy Garland. - Rachel Kinoti, www.everland-music.com > Licensed by Jessica Danser
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    08.11.2017
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183840
     
  • 01. Let Jesus Work It Out
    02. Deep River
    03. My Rock
    04. Search Heaven Over
    05. Shelter
    06. Why Can't I
    07. Lord Hold My Hand
    08. Jesus Is Calling
    09. I Got Everything (When I Got God)
    cover

    DAYTONIANS

    Let Jesus Work It Out

    [engl] Oh, this is a nifty little obscurity from 1977, actually sounding like it has been released some 7 or 8 years prior due to a rough and basic sound. But it has been a private release by an all in all christian band with christian lyrics, praising the lord and his son Jesus Christ. Original copies came in two different versions with a black cover and a green one, both impossible to find in any condition. So it is a good thing that EVERLAND MUSIC have taken their chance to reissue this beautiful record and make it available also to a more secular audience as well. What we have here is a mixture of soul and gospel music with elements of rock music thrown in. Most of the tracks are rather mellow and have a thought provoking atmosphere, but there are still a few joyful singalong tunes with a happy feel. All of them though are nothing but anthems of praise for God and Jesus Christ, music you usually associate with churches in the black neighborhoods in bigger US cities, mainly in the South, where the community sings along to the gospel choir under guidance of the pastor. But apart from being an overall spiritual effort, this music really grabs you by the soul and mesmerizes you. You feel the joy the band had recording this record. The performance is vibrant, you feel like you have been right in the same room with the band and their spark sets you ablaze. Technically this is definitely on par with every major production, just not with a really slick sound. In this case it is the music that matters, and who will disagree with me’ The sound of this record is even much older than the style of the songs and this might quite easily have been a 1950s album if you just look at the pure sound. The songs have a more modern edge, late 60s style, they could work with THE BAND, THE BYRDS and Bob Dylan as well as with black soul groups. And the songs have this special approach that makes them catchy and memorable. This record is pure brilliance and should be a highly praised gem for all fans of gospel and soul inspired west coast rock. 1977? Would you bet on it’ But that is the truth and I am floored to find so much music with a way older soul in that particular year where punk and disco ruled. Massive!!!!
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184571
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184588
     
  • cover

    DENNIS DREITH BAND, THE

    Reunion

    [engl] Way back in the early 1980?s a group of young musicians mostly in their 20's played around the LA jazz scene in a loosely organized jazz/fusion ensemble under the leadership of woodwind instrumentalist/composer-arranger Dennis Dreith. Those musicians, virtually unknown to all except their peers went on to illustrious touring and recording careers working with the biggest names in the music business and added their talents to scores of top charting recordings. Dennis himself grew into a leading film music composer and influential speaker on music industry matters. Dreith served as International President of the Recording Musicians? Association (RMA), in excess of 15 years, and served as a consultant and member of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Negotiating Committee. He is currently the Executive Director of the AFM & SAG-AFTRA Intellectual Property Rights Distribution Fund, overseeing numerous domestic and foreign rights agreements. The band's roster reads like a who's who of contemporary musicians these days. You may have heard of the ?Wrecking Crew,? or seen ?20 Feet From Stardom.? Now you can hear the current generation of musicians who are the unsung heroes of todays? hit records, films and television shows. The Dreith Band features a collection of world class musicians who may not be well known to the public, but are legends in music industry having recorded with Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, Lady Gaga, The Beach Boys, Barbara Streisand, Steely Dan, Elvis Presley, Phil Collins, Miles Davis, Michael Jackson, The Rolling Stones and countless others. Sounding like a full jazz orchestra, The Dennis Dreith Band sonance serves as a blueprint for new acts like Snarky Puppy, Lettuce, Vulfpeck and similarly jazz influenced young groups. Everland Jazz has now carefully prepared the first ever vinyl release of the Reunion LP, a seminal and timeless jazz masterpiece.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    08.11.2017
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183604
     
  • 01. Little Bitty Baby / Soliloquy To A Man-Child
    02. John Coltrane
    03. Chick Chick
    04. Well Done, Weldon
    05. A Spirit Speaks
    06. Attica
    07. Take My Hand, Precious Lord
    08. Boll Weevil
    09. Won't Be A Stranger
    10. Too Little, Too Late
    cover

    DESCENDANTS OF MIKE AND PHOEBE, THE

    A Spirit Speaks

    [engl] This delightfully eclectic LP is a prime example of 70?s SoulJazz. It is an early fusion record combining elements from jazz, gospel, soul and blues. It even has an edge of classical music, to be heard in the clear soprano voice of lead singer A. Grace Lee Mims on several tracks. As such it is a great sign of the times, the early seventies when musical experimentation and coalition was all abound. Bass-player and band member Bill Lee would later gain fame as being the father of controversial filmmaker Spike Lee and worked as musical director/conductor on four of his son?s excellent movie soundtracks. For sure you can already hear the early influences here! This is the best sounding reissue of A Spirit Speaks since it?s original release in 1974 and comes in an exact replica of the great original cover art. Licensed by Strate-East. - Marc Janssen, www.everland-music.com
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    01.10.2017
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183611
     
  • 01. Better Than Walking Out
    02. Lovin' You Is So Easy
    03. Woman (Instrumental)
    04. Our Love Is Special
    05. I Second That Emotion
    06. Woman
    cover

    DISCO LADIES

    Three's Company...

    [engl] This is a long overdue reissue of a fantastic album! Here we find a pure disco classic from the US scene of the late 70s. The original copies retail at plus $300, that’s only if you can find one at all! So those who love to spin good music, but are unwilling or unable to lay down too much money can now lend an ear to this fine vinyl! The opening track is 6.5 minutes long and consists of ongoing grooves with a hint of rock thanks to the melodic lead guitar. The driving rhythms are irresistible with soulful and strong female lead vocals that capture you right away. This reminds me strongly of the lengthy Donna summer dance classic, released during the same period ‘Better than walking out’ which became a dance floor sweeper. There is nothing complicated here, just sheer groove interwoven with catchy melodies. “Lovin‘ you is so easy“ follows and is a mid-paced soul anthem that comes as clean, slick and close to pop music a tune can come, but the melody of the chorus will stick to your mind. The arrangements are tight revealing several layers of instrumentation on second take. The lead singer’s expressive voice matches with the best of its genre. A grand dame of soul familiar to a wide audience. While we ruminate about the different stylistic ingredients of this album we reach ‘’Woman“, an entire instrumental with a straight groovy beat paired by cool funky rhythm guitar that lies beneath a soundscape made by the electric piano. Both seem to interact tightly and communicate with another. This tune just moves you physically with ease. Lushly orchestrated ‘’Our love is special“ turns out to be a wonderful soul pop anthem of the kind that stays with you when you have only enjoyed it once. I’m almost certain that most fans of the late 70’s soulful dance and pop will spin this record over and over again. This is what the DISCO LADIES are made for. Their music has this certain disco feeling but the classic 60s Motown Soul roots are so obvious and keep the whole collection of songs so grounded, that the music will go straight to the heart, nestling there for a long time. ‘’I second that emotion“ is again a mid-paced groover that has this fluttering beat with great instrumental figures build upon this footing. One might hear elements of reggae, gospel and funk melting into an utterly joyful soul pop tune that eventually would become an evergreen in the clubs. Last but not least we are treated to ‘’Woman“, again the arrangements of lead and backing vocals are amazing! These are footed by equally amazing strings and horns. These melodies, soulful, expressive, intense and full of joy! The last tune is a vocal version of “Woman“. Definitely being the highlight of the entire album and a worthy finale for a record that sticks out of the masses of disco music productions of it’s era! All this makes a wonderful and delightful reissue ! worthy of joining every black music aficionado of the 1970s.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    06.09.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183987
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    06.09.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184281
     
  • 01. Simple Song
    02. Randy’s Nap
    03. Summer Love
    04. Get Up And Get Down
    05. Journey Through The Night
    cover

    DISCO SPACE FUNK BAND

    Journey Through The Night

    [engl] SHORT: Here we have an album that merges funk, disco, AOR and soft rock into an electrifying brew with an utterly cheerful atmosphere, made to either get up and dance to or sit back and make it work as a soundtrack for an imaginary movie dragging you straight to the streets of San Francisco with hundreds of Mustangs, Challengers and Firebirds buzzing around. Especially recommended to fans of library records from the 70s. DETAILS: Once more Everland Music give us a beautiful reissue of an otherwise lost classic from the era of disco funk and dance music. This time we have the pleasure to listen to an album originally released in 1979 that is entirely instrumental yet does not require vocals at all due to its captivating songs. The music is a cool hybrid of rock and funk with a soulful edge, which means we get to hear horns allover the place as leading instruments, which even replace the vocal melodies and a melodic, yet powerful lead guitar joining in, whenever it fits perfectly. Sometimes saxophone and lead guitar chant unisono upon a base of pulsating, steaming grooves. The electric piano calls great late 70s AOR to mind, while the bass guitar and the chugging wah wah of the rhythm guitar is typical for the funk music that was the hot stuff earlier in the decade. The overall atmosphere is just cheerful and positive, which makes this record work like a soul energizer. Due to the instrumental nature of the album it also works perfectly as a kind of soundtrack to an imaginary movie. Close your eyes and you will be dragged to the streets of San Francisco with hundreds of Mustangs, Stingrays, Firebirds, Challengers and Pintos cruising up and down the streets and people groovin’ around with golden glitter clothes, big fluffy hairstyles and the likes. You can feel the Californian sun pour out from every note despite the fact that this outfit originally came from Georgia. The interplay between the members of this project is breathtaking. The music feels vibrant, just like it was played by a real band in one room right in the moment you listen to it. The lengthy B side opener “Get up and get down” is my personal favorite jam here, for it really swallows you into a whirlwind of sounds and melodies. The saxophone lays down a few killer solos in the earlier electric jazz vein, the grooves have a hypnotizing effect on you and the whole atmosphere is electrically charged. You may jump up and dance until you lose your breath and then lose your consciousness but you also could sit and listen and enjoy the intensity of the music. Amazing for sure. The six and a half minutes title track closes down this gem, of which original copies in good shape, just in case they turn up, fetch 250 USD or more. And this is well deserved. There are no real comparisons that come to my mind but I can say if you love late 70s pop, disco and AOR combined to an unusual but always accessible and memorable sound, this is all you ever wanted. The spacey synthesizer lines and the giant brass arrangements of the title track make it another stand out and there are only five tunes here, all quite long in playing time. Sound, performance, composition, everything flows into another perfectly and the result is an album that would appeal to a widespread mainstream audience, if this ever got to know about THE DISCO SPACE FUNK BAND. Hot groovers, dancefloor sweepers and dreamy middle of the road cruising rock songs, it can all be found here. It could have been one of these cool library music records from the 70s, merging funk and rock to give the moving pictures an exciting mood. But whatever this was meant to be, it is a masterpiece one should know. Oh, I am also a little bit of a liar for there really is a passage in the opening track “A simple song”, the most rock oriented piece here, where a human voice can be heard as it goes “lalalala” with a beautiful melody for maybe three or four seconds. Anyway, this is music that will make you happy and enlighten your day, so grab your copy now.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    22.03.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184069
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    22.03.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184366
     
  • 01. Yo-Yo (Part 1)
    02. I Don’t Think I Can Make It
    03. Three Time Loser
    04. An Ugly Woman (Is Twice As Sweet)
    05. Yo-Yo (Part 2)
    06. Love Is Sweeter On The Other Side
    07. You Can’t Get Something For Nothing
    08. Your Love Has Got To Me
    cover

    DON COVAY

    Funky Yo-Yo

    [engl] Groovy funk, hot R&B and angelic gospel and soul from 1977 by one of the leading figures in the 1960s soul music explosion, who worked as composer and producer with the likes of Chubby Checker and Aretha Franklin for example, but also acted as member of the doo wop act THE RAINBOWS. Don Convay (1938 ” 2015) was a gifted man when it came to music and this shows in his 1977 album “Funky Yo Yo”. It starts with a hot blooded and steamy funk tune, the first part of the title track, that comes with an up tempo beat dragging everybody from his seat to get into a really unleashed dancing. On the ever pulsating rhythms you find some nice guitar and piano harmonies and riffs that push the tune into a rock direction without losing the funk spirit. The vocals and backing vocals often seem to talk to each other and sometimes even are spoken and not sung, even though this was far from the rap music that turned up later. Don Convay and his female backing singers laugh and shout at each other in a state of joy. Great one to heat up the audience. Now the pace gets slowed down and a soulful ballad named “I don’t think I can make it” flows in gently with a three quarter beat, a beautiful organ and heart warming lead vocals that have a similar timbre like Mick Jagger or Van Morrison, who in fact always wanted to sound like black guys. It is not far from Wilson Picket’s “If you need me” in the ROLLING STONES version from 1964. Coincidence’ Probably a case of inspiration that lead to one beautiful song being released in 1977. In opposite to it’s title, “Three time loser” is a real winner. Another R&B tune that recalls the golden days of British and Irish R&B around 1964/65. This was outrageously retro at the time of it’s release, since we already had disco and electronic music hitting the charts, we had synthesizers swirling allover the place and there was rap showing up on the horizon, while in rock the punk and early heavy metal started to take over the reign from all the dinosaur progressive bands. And in between we have this album. A 1964 soundalike R&B, garage rock’n’roll monster par excellance. And you really get this idea when you listen to the next song “An ugly woman (is twice as sweet)”, which could easily have been a real stormer on any early THEM, ANIMALS and ROLLING STONES record. What is going on here’ And even with the explosive funk eruption “Yo Yo Pt. 2” Don Convay goes no further than 1969. The band goes wild and crazy on this tune and they pour even more fuel to the fire. I am floored that a band on the edge of the plastic pop decade called “the Eighties” would come up with such an old fashioned but captivating, engaging and groovy record of the handmade kind. The performance on both “Yo Yo” songs is determined, devoted and vibrant. And before you get lost in the flashing grooves of “Yo Yo Pt. 2” the band slows down to take a breath again and tells you that “Love is sweeter on the other side”, a bluesy ballad with overwhelming vocal delivery. Don Convay sounds like a white man who wants to sound like a black man, still like a cross between Mick Jagger and Van Morrison with some undefinable aspects. Anyway, his voice is just beautiful, rich, strong and charismatic whatever he does. He sings in a soft way and then erupts into shouts that speak of a wounded soul. Awesome ballad. And then comes “You can’t get something for nothing” which is garage rock that sounds more like 1968 or 69 and has a distinct CCR atmosphere. Nothing but a wicked little rocker that demands your attention and then grabs you by the heart. This is still an unexpected move although nothing would surprise the listener anymore. And to close the album what could be better than another 1960s style R&B ballad. So this is what you get. Your THEM, ANIMALS and ROLLING STONES records of 1965 have begged for a little brother for ages, here we go with a record that fell out of time when it was released, but comes shining with a timeless beauty 40 years onward. If you love your 60s music and do not mind that it was only recorded more than 10 years ahead of the golden era, this reissue on EVERLAND MUSIC will thrill you to the furthest corner of your soul.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184618
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184625
     
  • cover

    DONNY MCCULLOUGH

    From The Heart

    [engl] Straight out of high school the singer and multi-instrumentalist Donny McCullough was hired as a staff writer for Motown Records. While there, Donny learned from the best as how to write, arrange and produce music. After leaving Motown Donny started his own independent label EMC Records at the young age of twenty four and recorded his very own album From The Heart. This great soulful funk LP was first released in 1981 and features many musicians who later made international fame, such as his schoolmate Dorian Holley, who sang with Michael Jackson for over 30 years. This beautiful re-release comes straight from the source and will deservedly put full attention once again on this rare but classic funky soul LP.
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    08.11.2017
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183833
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    22.03.2019
     
  • cover

    DOS-MUKASAN

    Dos-Mukasan Ensemble

    [engl] First reissue of the second and last album by legendary Soviet Kazakh 'Vocal and Instrumental Ensemble' licensed directly from the band's leader Murat Kusainov. Restored original artwork and old-stylish vinyl. The album was recorded in 1982, released in 1983 and re-released in 2019! For now, this is one of the most wanted and important records of the Old Soviet Rock scene. Ten finest songs with shining melodies, rich arrangements, unforgettable voices, and unique oriental blend.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    01.10.2019
    EAN
    EAN 8016670137030
     
  • 01. Ruego De Amor (Indian Love Call)
    02. La Casita
    03. Madrecita Linda
    04. Dulce Y Amarga
    05. Testigo Fui
    06. Confesion
    07. El Pachuco (Low Rider)
    08. Dime La Verdad (Tell It Like It Is)
    09. La Culebra
    10. Me Patina El Coco
    11. Tomas Al Timbal
    12. Contrabando Y Traicion
    13. Movin On
    cover

    EL INTERNACIONAL RAY CAMACHO

    Mucha Salsa

    [engl] This very productive trumpeter and bandleader hails from El Paso, Texas. ‘Mucha Salsa’ from 1978 is essentially an obscure salsa set from Ray Camacho – an artist who always seems willing to mix up styles in his music. That's definitely the case here, as Ray mixes straighter Latin modes with a few border touches – creating a hybrid of New York and Mexican modes that's pretty unique – but which also has some occasional funk and soul currents that are probably the record's strongest suit. Ray plays trumpet off course and the rest of the group includes guitar, trombone, and plenty of percussion – plus sax and piano from Manuel Palafox, who also handles arrangements. Titles include a great cover of "Low Rider", dubbed "El Pachuco", the Latin funk number "Tomas Al Timbal" and a funky take on Brass Construction's "Movin On". Plus the o so sweet cover of Aaron Neville’s classic ballad ‘Tell It Like It Is’ here named ‘Dime La Verdad’. This carefully prepared record is the first proper reissue in 40 years of this amazingly diverse project. In all it’s original glory!
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    15.06.2018
    EAN
    EAN 0710473183727
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    27.07.2018
     
  • 01. Ikoto rock
    02. Wetin dey watch goat, goat dey watcham
    03. Akalaka
    04. Ife nwanne melu nwanne
    05. Egwu Eric
    06. I will tell mama
    cover

    ERIC (SHOWBOY) AKAEZE AND HIS ROYAL ERICOS

    Ikoto Rock

    [engl] There we go with another Afro Beat classic that did not really leave Nigeria back in the day it was released. Therefore we can only guess the value among collectors but some reliable sources tell us that even not so mint original copies go for up to 600 $. The AFRODISIA sublabel of DECCA music is responsible for quite a few awesome afro beat gems that have only recently been rediscovered by never sleeping music lovers such as the folks behind EVERLAND MUSIC from the Netherlands and here we go with the first ever official reissue of Eric Showboy Akaeze’s second album with HIS ROYAL ERICOS. Eric Showboy Akaeze was former bigband leader who was hip on the Nigerian scene, which mostly happened around the main city of Lagos in the 60s and especially 70s after the military junta took over the reign and was keen to bring in more indegenious elements to the peoples allday lives and a new style of music emerged, AFRO BEAT, mixing Western rock and funk, rocksteady and soul with rhythms and melodies that clearly had an African heritage. He was nicknamed IKOTO, which is the Nigerian word for a spinner, the child’s toy, due to his dancing style where he was spinning around like mad during shows. He was an extraordinary dancer and showman and what mostly interests us, he was a wonderful bandleader and musician. When Fela Kuti became the rising star on the scene and soon the musician most hated by the regime, Akaeze soon fell into Kuti’s shadow but he maintained his musical activities until his untimely death in 2002 and with this, his second masterepiece „Ikoto rock“, referring to his nickname and his own style Akaeze created from this, his legacy was carved in rock. What kind of music shall we now expect from this 1974 release? The original holds 4 lengthy, groovy compositions with a jammy, nearly improvised feeling in some parts, for the reissue EVERLAND MUSIC dragged out the utterly scarce 7inch „Akalaka“ from 1975 (even beat up copies go for 700 $) and added both tracks to the A and B side of the album respectively. It fits well with the haunting, nearly hypnotizing style of „Ikoto rock“. There is always a repetitive beat, a dense network of grooves in the background of each song which build the foundation for the commanding vocals shouted out with passion for life and the harmonic arrangements of guitar, farfisa organ and brass section melodies. These songs are too furious and powerful for plain reggae and rocksteady. Listen to the simmering leads performed by Akaeze on a tenor saxophone. This is nearly eruptive. He loves to give his audience a break sometimes, adding passages with the feeling of a religious or military chant to enchant his listeners entirely. All this creates a steaming atmosphere and puts you, who gets this record spinning on his turntable, into a trance like state during the duration of the album. Most songs here were sung in Akaeze’s native tongue or at least some English based lingo that includes many African words. You can easily feel how good the musicians are, due to the clear production that was a standard for DECCA / AFRODISIA releases back then. Still this album has a raw and honest feeling making it a simmering and intense musical affair. The two bonus tracks might be the most accessible and memorable here since they were conceived for a 7“ release but still come as lengthy as they could. You will not find your 3 minute pop tunes here and the power of the performance is amazing. A wonderful item to rediscover, music that deserves to be alive and set the hearts and souls of a new generation on fire.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    18.12.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473185059
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    18.12.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473185066
     
  • 01. Too many people
    02. Nihonjin
    cover

    FAR OUT

    Nihonjin

    [engl] "Some albums are certainly a kind of holy grail for music lovers and collectors of a certain genre, style and era. FAR OUT with their eponymous debut and unfortunately also farewell album from 1973 have created such a sacred gem. Original copies in good condition change hands for up to 2000 USD and there are certainly a few not so official reprints on vinyl and CD out on the market which do not even come close to do justice to the greatness of the old original black gold. But here we go with the first ever official vinyl reissue taken directly from the original mastertapes supplied by Nippon Columbia. EVERLAND MUSIC did a brilliant job as usual with their reissue. The coverart with a white glove hanging on a washing line to dry comes on an awesome heavy gatefold sleeve. Including 2 inserts with live photos from back in the day when the band was going wild on stage. Now for the most important part, the music. There are certainly not too many wild moments here since both long tracks „Too many people“ and „Nihonjin“ have a melancholic, dreamy approach with a desperately howling and sighing lead guitar that spouts some utterly intense melodies. These two tracks are epics in the pure sense of the word. They start both with a rather gentle part which develops into a journey of sound that bring either vast landscapes of enchanting beauty untouched by modern human life or quite dramatic scenes to your mind’s eye. The lead guitarist often uses some strange instrument which is a kind of electric sitar to add the atmosphere of eastern mystic. So while falling into a state of deep trance while letting the music rush through my ears into my brain my spirit that has left my body embarks on a trip from the smokey volcanic hills around Pompeji to the icy permafrost wastelands of the Northeastern lands and arrives somewhere in the East Asian jungle on a gold plated pyramid of an unspeakable age where laughing demons dance around mystic fireplaces. Yes, this is the real journey to the center of your mind and despite having no really abstract freak out parts, tricky instrumental runs and twisted rhythm figures this music will capture your whole existence for the next 38 minutes. The end of „Nihonjin“, the second tune, shows an ambient like section with synthesizer background, echoing atonal sitar, a brightly squeaking flute, organ carpet and some percussions. This is indeed a rather extreme part, due to the pointed tone of the flute but quite soon the music stops and leaves the listener back in reality. This second track later on got a kind of reappearance on the FAR EAST FAMILY album „Nipponjin“, also retitled as „Nipponjin“. Mastermind behind both acts is multi instrumentalist Fumio Miyashita, so there is no wonder. The later version has more space rock elements and electronic sounds than the original FAR OUT tune and is a little bit shorter all in all. But I digress. This is the real thing for those who still miss the melodies and atmosphere of the late 60s and very early 70s when people had a dream of a peaceful world and who enjoy early German cosmic kraut rock like AMON DÜÜL II, ORGANISATION (later to become KRAFTWERK), the debut album by TANGERINE DREAM and more obscure stuff but also international bands like PINK FLOYD, GONG, TWINK and HAWKWIND just as an East Asian version. A real gem and finally available with the real sound and package again."
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    18.12.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473185011
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    18.12.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473185028
     
  • cover

    FRAT, THE

    Shake It Loose

    [engl] Limited edition of 250 copies! The Frat (aka The Frat Band, Autofrat) was a short lived electro funk outfit under the leadership of songwriter and producer Jeffrey Singleton. Jeffrey is best known as producer/writer on the excellent O.T. Sykes - First Love LP from 1981. Little is known about his own group apart from the band containing members Joe White, Ted White, Brigette Travis, Hugh Gray, Carlett Martin, Robert Singleton and Joey White. Only a few hands full of original copies of this excellent 7? single are known to have survived which makes this re-issue a true and most welcome feast for funk, boogie and electro fans. The music is licensed directly from original owner Jeffrey Singleton and is deliciously remastered from the best possible sources available.
    Format
    7''
    Release-Datum
    08.11.2017
     
  • 01. There Was A Time
    02. That’s When I Need You
    03. I Like Your Style
    04. I Fell In Love (I Can’t Help It)
    05. Never Let Love Go
    06. They Say I’m Afraid (Of Losing You)
    07. This Thing!
    08. Just Because You’ve Been Hurt
    09. You’d Better Get Hip Girl
    10. Give Me Lots Of Lovin’
    11. She’s Foolin’ You
    12. Deserted
    cover

    FREDDY BUTLER

    With A Dab Of Soul

    [engl] Oh, sweet soul music, you make my life so wonderful. Well, especially when I have the pleasure to rediscover long lost treasures from the late 60s soul music scene that were not the obvious albums by the obvious bands or artists like Four Tops and Marvin Gaye but appeared and fell under the radar despite the great quality of the songs. Now here we have Freddy Butler, a man with a smooth and soft, yet powerful voice that you will be able to recognize from a dozen or more soul singers oft he same era. A kind expression lies on his face when you look at him smiling from the cover of his sole album “With a dab of soul” released in 1967. Original mono copies of this gem already fetch 150 US$ or even more when they turn up in a more or less good shape. So it was time for a vinyl reissue and this comes from Dutch label Everland Records. And they dug out a vinyl treasure par excellance here. “With a dab of soul” is a jewel of Northern Soul or Street Soul far from the mainstream productions of the 1960s big labels that held most positions in the charts. It has this earthy feeling, a simmering atmosphere that highlights its authenticity. This man is for real and his music comes as honest as music can. For sure he offers sweet ballads, steaming dancers and thoughtful tunes with a certain pop appeal just as many of the mainstream acts also did but the vivid production that only focuses on the main instruments such as drums, bass, guitar, piano, blues harp and a sparingly used brass section with Mr. Butler’s vocals upfront makes this feel like something real. Freddy Butler has this lush voice that pushes the songs with great emotions into the heart and soul of the listener. This power and his charisma make him an outstanding star at the sky of soul music but this album makes one thing crystal clear. Talent alone will not bring you fame and fortune. Being on par musically with all the big names will not get you to the top positions of the charts. We can only thank Everland Records for dragging this album by the long gone Freddy Butler back to the light. Soulfanatics who love a good mix of moods will certainly enjoy these tunes. Freddy Butler puts an emphasize on the song, the melody and the longevity of his works rather than just going for a hot blooded groove that stays with the listener as long as the song lasts. He wanted to create anthems for a generation to come and voil’, here we go. As good as everything the FOUR TOPS have ever put on vinyl, as good as BABY HUEY might have been if he just stayed with us for longer than just 26 years. These are songs so timeless that they will always sound fresh and vivid when you give this record a spin. And be sure, this album won’t let you go with just the occasional round. You feel like one turn per side is not enough when you are in the mood for good soul music. There were even two 45s released from this album, “There was a time / This thing” and a promo 7? “That’s when I needed you / Give me lots of lovin'”. Just to mention that. Band and singer of course are top notch, musicians who really deserve the title. They play with passion and fire while staying precise at any moment. On top of the instrumental substructure you will find vocals with a great range and good variety of intensity levels. Freddy Butler was a crooner who could sing like a gentleman and be a savage the next moment. He always had the situation under control and knew to bring in the right emotion at the right time. They don’t make them like this anymore. He should be listed with the greatest of his genre whenever people talk about soul music. And now go and buy your copy of this jewel.
    Format
    LP
    Release-Datum
    12.10.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184533
    Format
    CD
    Release-Datum
    12.08.2019
    EAN
    EAN 0710473184540