Matata - I Want You

Matata were obviously inspired tremendously by James Brown. One listen to "I Feel Funky" affirms they were huge fans of the heavy funk scene in the US. In fact their LP "Independence" directly channels the feel of Fred Wesley, Maceo, and the JB's first albums. Lead singer Anwar Richards pulls off a pretty mean scream and is generally pretty masterful at capturing the JB vibe. If ever there's a solid afro funk LP, this is probably the one. In addition to Anwar's amazing vocals the band is rumored to be comprised of top notch session players. A hit list from both Kenya and Ghana of amazing afro funk musicians thrown together for Matata. This incredible line up made every track they recorded solid funk bomb material.

This 7 inch has "I Want You" and "I Feel Funky". It's a great 7 inch to have. Both songs are incredible. They are probably the best two from the album. They're both from the 'Independence' LP on President Records. President is probably one of my all time favorite UK labels. Largely in part to being the label for most of the material by The Equals. I'm a huge fan of the Equals and I'm working on a tribute to the Equals in an upcoming post. Secondly, they were the label for Matata. Thirdly, they were responsible for bringing the T.K. and Miami sound to Britain. President records has a looooong and impressive catalog. Aside from having the other highly desired funk bomb "Talkin' Talking" on it, this entire LP is solid thru and thru. This incredible LP gets the highest recommendation I could possibly give. And, if deep funk is your thing you should track it down.

So, I'm giving up both sides of this incredible 7 inch and two tracks from the LP. I was tempted to only leave you with "I Want You" because its the best track by them...period. But, with four others, you should be able to make your own decision.

Enjoy....

Matata

Matata - I Want You
Matata - I Feel Funky
Matata - Talkin' Talkin'
Matata - Gimme Some Lovin'

Daniel Sahuleka - It's Beautiful

I'm not one to re-tread over already covered territory, but in the case of this song by Daniel Sahuleka, an exception has to be made. Plus, where artists on this blog are given multiple posts, I assure you it is well deserved. Not to mention, I'm un-earthing even more Sahuleka goodness, and will probably post more soon enough.
Let's start with the basics. Dutch born Daniel Sahuleka is actually of Indonesian decent. He started with a self titled LP back in 1977 and he's had a long career and still performs to this day in Holland. He's taken his music all over the world, been given a doctors degree in Yogyakarta, and generally been loved for his positivity in his music everywhere. The last post we featured was "Ev'rybody Feel The Groove" from his 1981 Polydor LP "Sunbeam". This particular entry for Daniel is from a rare single only release called 'Skankin'" This is the flipside called "It's Beautiful". Really it's just a tasty modern soul tune and another Sahuleka tune that I'm completely in love with.

The Daniel Sahuleka Band

The Pictured 45 above has this great shot of him with his guitar and gold leather shirt..LOVE IT.
I think this is from much much earlier at the beginning of his career. By, 1983 of course he was much older than this. He looks as though he's thirteen. I couldn't find any info anywhere to determine exactly how old he was when he started recording..but again, folks should know by now what the section below is all about.

I wanna thank LAGUPEDIA for posting this in the comments section of our last Daniel Sahuleka post. I appreciate the info and feedback, and although a lot gets lost in translation between Dutch and English with really love comments. It's equivalent to DJ'ing a radio show between 3-5am and actually getting a phone call or two!
I only have this tune on 45 (although it is available on 12 inch as well!) and will be bringing it tonite to Sweaterfunk. It's Kirk Harper's birthday and Annual 45rpm Night. I intend to speak tonite not with my lips, but with the tunes I play...and to Kirk, and the magic that is Sweaterfunk I aptly say..It's Beautiful !!

Come check Sweaterfunk out tonite....


Daniel Sahuleka - It's Beautiful

The Linda Lewis Special - Part One

There's real depth to Linda Lewis' music. Once you're hooked on her sultry style its hard to pull away. Her falsetto range and almost kid like voice takes some getting used to. As a song writer she composed some of the greatest folk and feel good soul music I've ever heard. Still few folks have really heard of her, yet fortunately most of her material has now thankfully been re-issued for exploration.
I'm starting this tribute to her by featuring 4 tracks from her amazing "Lark" LP. It was the first of hers I was turned onto. In fact, a major Japanese dealer peaked my interest when he was picking it up. I was fascinated by what the interest could be... and, I was floored by how incredible Ms. Lewis actually was. The moderate and lo-fi yet beautiful cover artwork helped as well. Then like wildfire I was off to get everything she had ever recorded. Additionally in this part one tribute to her, I'm including a few tracks from her first and rare as crickets tits LP "Say No More".

She originally hails from London, England and wrote and produced all of her own material. Not only was she writer and producer, she was a stellar vocalist with a range that few could reach. Not mention she's an accomplished keyboard and guitar player as well. After you listen to the music she made, you realize just how incredible these facts really are. Her marvelous writing and constant song structure changes will keep you constantly impressed. Her freedom of expression, unusual approach, and wicked melodies all surmise her magic. Linda was light years ahead of other folks. She seems to have been influenced and inspired by a vast array of material ranging from Stevie Wonder to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Yet, again she was more playful and free than most folk artists around at the time. She honestly had a mold completely of her own.

Her style was light, folky, country, hippy, funky and completely unique. There's really nothing like her music. She was in the group Ferris Wheel in 1970 by replacing Marsha Hunt in that groups line-up. They recorded an LP entitled "The Ferris Wheel", toured throughout the UK, and quickly disbanded the same year. She then recorded four solo LP's for the Reprise label. Those four records are some of her best material. Her first, "Say No More" was released in 1971 in which she laid the groundwork for the Linda Lewis sound and etched her way into UK history. Her absolute style is represented here, and bench marked just how incredibly light years ahead of her time she truly was. The other landmark LP for both her and amongst collectors is her 1972 masterpiece "Lark". Then in 1973 she released "Fathoms Deep". Oddly, and as fitting as it might be, as a song writer she is simply just that..fathoms deep. 'Fathoms' spawned a little more momentum and her first US tour with Cat Stevens who she was greatly inspired and influence by. Her next and last LP for the Reprise label was "Heartstrings", much sought after for her tune "Sideway Shuffle" which was a huge hippy funk spin of mine and largely sought after in the rare groove circuit. This last LP was mostly a 'Best Of' compiling tunes from both 'Lark and 'Fathoms'

She recorded two more albums for the Arista label. First "Not A Little Girl Anymore" in 1975, and "Woman Overboard," in 1977. Even though she had a great deal of success covering 'The Shoop Shoop Song' by Betty Everett on the 'Not a Little Girl' LP, somewhere between that and "Woman" things for Linda had changed. 'Woman' got lost in a swirl of discofied pressure. During this time she lost her way and was pushed in a more commercial direction. She decided to become more focused on her personal life and family and steered away from the record biz.

Still she made quite an impression and stayed busy the entire time of her career. Basically putting out an LP pretty much once a year. The imprint she left us is still being felt and she's now heralded and appreciated much more now than ever before.

One thing that can be said for music by Linda Lewis, it makes you feel good. Nothing makes me feel like summer time, like swimming in a gorgeous river in pristine nature quite like her first LP. 'Lark' is like being in love for the entire album. It's acutally rumored she was in love at the time of that album. She gave us 'love' whenever she wrote or performed her music.

In this part one, I'm featuring a few selections from her first most vital two LP's. In part two, I'll feature the notorious "Sideway Shuffle" as well as her much later 80's records, bits and pieces of her newer material, as well as feature a bit from the coveted Ferris Wheel LP.

Linda Lewis - Say No More LP

Peter's Garden
The Same Song
Donkey's Years

Linda Lewis - Lark LP

Spring Song
Reach For The Truth
It's The Frame
Feeling Feeling

Sweet Stuff - Freaky To You

When I first discovered this little 45 on the Soul Town label not only did I know I would treasure this sleazy jam for years to come, but I thought I had found a piece of Leon Haywood history. Sure, song credits are listed as (Leon Haywood) but i thought perhaps he was in this group or started with Sweet Stuff before continuing on his own solo path. I was wrong of course as its now obvious to me it's a a cover of his classic song. But, this is not to say I wasn't already an expert on Haywood's career. I remember finding an LP on Fat Fish at a record convention and going ape shit that I had found a mod boogaloo favorite tune of mine 'Soul Cargo' on the LP of the same name.
Turns out this group Sweet Stuff were paying homage to the brilliant "(I Wanna Do) Something Freaky To You" tune, by funking it out a little longer, holding back strings and throwing in a few more wicked synth farts. It's been comped by Ubiquity on "California Soul" back in... I dunno, 2002? It's Cali soul for sure. They hammer it home that this song is all about 'going down'.

It oozes with sexuality...almost to excess. The moans and groans that coat this seven inch... leaving you asking for a towel afterwards. Nothing like hearing a male moaning on a record for a change. They're obviously having some serious hot sex near the end, something that perhaps Leon, being on a more commercial label (20th Century?) couldn't really get into. Too bad, but thank the heavens for Sweet Stuff and their one-off sex romp. 'Even the sun goes down'...thanks gang, lesson learned. We're all just trying to get a little bit o' head in life. Right?

Sweet Stuff - Freaky To You

The Suttons - So Good

Mike and Brenda Sutton are incredible. They had such a magnetism about every one of their club tunes that elbowed its way onto dance floors. From the Classic boogie bomb "We'll Make It" to the booty scooping monster "Don't Let Go Of Me". They were ripe for the staple of Sam record label's catalog. Seems they got into the studio and set tracks completely on fire. The power of duet, or the power of some incredible singing talent and, perhaps both. The true disco and disco boogie era was all about separating itself from what had become a huge commercial era based on gimmicks. Disco had been engulfed in money making and it's heavily saturated formula was running dry. Mike and Brenda are examples of vocal prowess and 'real' talent that began to turn the tide. They started in Los Angeles and wrote for Motown in the early and mid seventies. In 1984 they dropped the first names, and the "&" to record this LP "So Good" as 'The Suttons'. Strange that they released this LP on Rocshire Records since it was normally a label that released rock and roll groups. There's several tasty tunes on this LP, including the masterpiece of modern soul 'Whole lot of love'...but, none stronger than this slow jam bump and grinder title cut.

I'm feeling these tunes more and more these days. And, mostly they don't have a home. For the most part, you can't play these tunes 'out'. People don't wanna hear 'slow jams' like this in a club setting. I mean, other than Valentines day gigs. Which is why I'm thankful for radio and blogs like this. And, if you're a fan of this blog and others like it, you don't really give a shit anyway. It's good ish... and of the highest order.
Slow flappy fat bass synth and over the top sexy lyrics. Complete syncopated tightness. They were really crafty songwriters and had a grip (no pun intended) on grooves that worked. How many songs talk about 'my baby treats me like a lolli-pop' and shit like 'you taste just like a candy bar'? It's 'finger licking good' for sure.

The Suttons - So Good

Dwight Thompson - My Woman Is Calling

Dutch funk. Dwight started out as a DJ, then became a club owner, and then recording artist. Mostly unknown in the states, he enjoyed quite a history in Holland, France and Germany. This his first 7" venture.."woman is calling" was released in 1975 and was a minor hit. Dwight didn't see major success again until 1984 with "Girls". To me, this track has a vocal tone that's the epitome of 'rare groove'. It's jazzy and funky disco with harmonies and attack that is smooth and clever. It's also got a 'world music' feel to it..which a lot of great 'rare groove' does. It seems to fall somewhere between Joe Bataan and Gil Scott Heron. That's a hell of a compliment. And, hell of a good direction to be headed if you ask me. This track is from his 'Hypocrisy' LP, also released the same year. I don't have it yet, (I only have this 7") but it looks very promising and...hard as woodpecker lips to track down on OG wax.



Dwight Thompson - My Woman Is Calling

Erma Franklin - Can't See My Way

Speaking of soul sisters, time for the cream a la crop. She's cut from the cloth of the highest order, from the legendary Franklin family. Oldest sister of the bunch, her sister Carolyn Franklin, and Aretha Franklin, the first lady (of Chocolate City that is) she is Erma. You could say that these three sisters are the first ladies of soul. Erma's biggest claim to fame may have been "Piece Of My Heart" which was covered by Janis Joplin. But, the delights of this 1969 LP are endless. From her sweeping "Light My Fire", to the classic "Gotta Find Me A Lover (24 Hours A Day)".


"Can't See My Way" is straight haunted. It's a creeping, James Bond-ish, slick soul tune that has all the best qualities of the Brunswick Label sound. Crackling and crisp drums, fuzzed out guitar (that cuts like a knife), congas, piercing horns, and amazing production that shines throughout this whole album. This tune to me, is the absolute blazer on the album.

I can't think of a soul tune that combines the feel of psychedelic 'swingin' sixties and heavy funky soul better than this. Just look at that dress she's wearing on the cover. With the swingin' London inspired threads and Afro hair, it benchmarks a golden part of an era that I'm in love with. A combination of two worlds. This tune is also a long time favorite of mine, made it on a funk comp I put together (just like the last tune posted here) and sounds the best in stereo with headphones on. This is a much more common of an LP than her rare 1962 LP on Epic, but it is highly recommended soul stuff.


Erma Franklin - Can't See My Way

Vera Hamilton - But I Ain't No More

My friend, fellow aficionado, and avid collector Micheal Barnes just recently got this 45 and I was reminded what a great song it is. I surprised myself by remembering it word for word. I know it line by line from several years of playing it out. Not to mention hearing it at DJ Kittys notorious Wednesday nite at the ruby room. Many of us who went to that nite on a regular basis knew all the lyrics to this and many others. Like 'Foxy Girls In Oakland', by Rodger Collins, 'Garden Of Four Trees' by The Explosions, and 'So Much Trouble In My Mind' by Sir Joe Quarterman. Kitty used to hold the deep funk down every week.
I first met Michael at that very nite and soon learned of his KALX (UC Berkeley) radio show. Turns out Michael was deep as the earths core and played with us several times at the Soundboutique DJ nite at the Ivy Room. He was the first to put me on to James Black and the Whites, totally new to me at the time, and flip my head around several times like the exorcist on some mad soul and funk shit I had never heard. On his radio show I'd hear him play more new stuff like Gang of Four and the Slits. Again, all new to me, and again blowing my mind constantly with smokin' hot soul stuff. Such is the nature of good college radio shows. Something Both Michael and DJ Kitty are pros at.

Michael's moved down to LA and is still active in radio..
Check out his Radio Show on KPFA called Melting Pot.

And his audio blog of the same name.
http://www.meltingpotblog.com/

Thanks Michael for reminding me of this track and glad you got yours!! Cheers!

This Vera Hamilton track is complete soulful funk stomper and Vera a vocal power house. Vera can belt. And, the theme here is 'I ain't gon' take yo shit anymore' or rather 'I was your fool, but I ain't no more' Kind of a mid seventies 'Tyrone' if you will. Produced by Johnny Otis, it's also a certified Bay Area goodie. Real deal Sister Funk and a shining moment and example of the 70's and one of many reasons we love this era. Sisters and women in general started to assert themselves and we saw more and more songs like this that represented changes in the women's movement. Could also be credited to the activity here within the Bay Area at the time.
I had it on a mix CD of mine a long time ago, and sounds just as fresh and tasty to me as it did then. Incredible stuff here, wished I knew where Vera was now and if she made anything else as hot as this.
In 2002 BGP re-released this great song with another tune called "Spells And Incantations". I have not heard it. My copy is a promo and has "Aint No.." on both sides, stereo and mono. But, if any of you have the BGP version or can post the link..I'd like to hear her other material.




Vera Hamilton - But I Ain't No More

Freddie Hughes - Sarah Mae

Mellow Saturday Morning soul.

That's what I'm feeling like right now.

That's exactly the mood I was put in when I first discovered this bay area soul 45. It's a tragic sounding story with Freddie pleading for her to come back home, definitely 'tear-stained' soul if I ever heard it. The backdrop is simple tight drums, a complex bass line, a nice piano melody and trickled with light synth. It's a masterful combination and had me hooked right from the beginning. I find it highly unlikely that this tune was much of a commercial success, but the bay area has always been diverse, so I know it had to get 'some' local radio play. Nonetheless, its a truly sincere tune that a few soul fans keep close to the chest. And, probably heralded and enjoyed now much more than then.
Freddie Hughes was closely aligned with the local blues scene here in Oakland, and I remember seeing him, and his name spattered throughout Oakland blues posters. I grew up mostly in Oakland, and since my brother was already playing bass in this circuit I had a great angle of insight. I remember seeing Freddie Hughes live somewhere and telling all my mod and soul loving friends that it was the most incredible man I had ever seen before. I told them that in his slick burgundy suit and with his captivating performance style it was the closest thing I could imagine to seeing Otis Redding. But, even better.. Freddie is drenched in good ole' Bay Area Blues, Soul and Funk. To this day, his version of "Take Me To The River" is smoking hot.

Freddie is a legend in his own right. He made absolutely beautiful soul records including his first LP 'Send My Baby Back' on the Wand label. He's not to be confused (which does happen-even I'm guilty of it at one time) with Fred Hughes of Brunswick fame. This is not the Fred of 'Oh Wee Babe' fame..yet, his caliber is the same or better. Freddie was born in Berkeley, and still performs here locally today. Oddly they had a performance yesterday at Berkeley's famous Cheese Board. AND, a performance tonight in Oakland at The Warehouse Bar & Grill. I highly recommend seeing Freddie Hughes in any capacity. Although I have not seen or heard his new band "Kickin' The Mule", I think it is NOT to be missed. Real talk folks.
Check the schedule here.
http://www.myspace.com/kickinthemule

One listen to "Don't Let The Green Grass Fool You" and you'll know what you need to do...SEE THIS MAN. But, then it gets even deeper with "Do My Thing".... Are you convinced yet??

Support the cats that are still around and still 'doing their thing'!!
If you live in this area, you should really try to see him. Makes sense right?
I'm glad to share this super bluesy deep soulful "Sarah Mae" track, and even happier to spread the gospel of 'Freddie Hughes'

Freddie Hughes - Sarah Mae

Ben E. King - Spoiled

I recently went to Rose town, aka Santa Rosa. And, the surrounding area. Hit a few record spots, connected with long out of touch homies and tried to relax. Shout outs to Grandmaster Melly Mel and DJ Grand Matt-ster W. Let me first say, there are NO records in Sebastopol. After being given the warning, I still went anyway. It is beautiful there, but alas no goodies at all. There is however 'The Last Record Store' in Santa Rosa. I think with a name like that they plan to be around post apocalypse. That's great, and works perfect for me. Because I plan to be shopping for records AFTER a major disaster or when the big one finally hits. Kinda like "Road Warrior", with a dog by my side, shotgun in one hand and big bird battery operated record player in the other. This shop has a good quantity of new vinyl releases. Not quite what cats like myself are really looking for, but they do get plenty used stuff in frequently. The last major thing I saw come through there was a strange comp with a John Forde tune on it. But, that was a while ago. I did toss some recommendations around the shop, and it was worth the visit. The good thing is I was able to relax, and caught up with friends. Nice.

I did make some waves when I went up there and got some props for our blog...

Homie Gabe gave us some mention in his blog..

http://www.bohemian.com/citysound/

His blog is great. Gabe Meline is everywhere you want to be but aren't. But, thanks to him, you can read about it. Good taste, well versed and cultured. Or, un-cultured if needed. Maybe even pro-biotic. Just plain well written.
Check it out
The other waves I made were trying to destroy a douche bag frat type party in the hotel. I'm pretty chillax most of the time, but even I have limits. For example, Lady Gaga doesn't work well most of the time for me, but is definitely NO GOOD after 3am. I suppose it had a lot to do with the fact that the Mehserle verdict and Oscar Grant EXECUTION riots in Oakland were going on, and I was pissed that people were partying without a care in the world. I didn't succeed at shutting them down, but I did get my whole family comped for a two night stay. So, fuck 'em.

This track was on the play list quite a bit during the drive there and back. I had just picked it up. Not a huge Ben E. King fan, but he's got a long career and many tasty moments. This tune and "Music Trance" are always a good enjoyable play. This was re-released in 2004 on 12" with the dope and even tastier "Street Tough" on the flip. That's a good way to get this tune. FYI.
Enjoy "Spoiled" from the "Let Me In Your Life" LP from 1978.

Ben E. King - Spoiled

Jaye Williams - Let Me Be The One

This is just simply a monster track. Serious UK Boogie Funk heat. My motto - 'All Killer, No Filler'. Here's a prime example. Jaye had another juicy nugget, "Eternally Yours" on the same label, also bomb stuff.
I ripped this for a homie that requested it, and originally would have seen her in L.A. this weekend. So, I thought I'd post it here. Plans had to shift and I won't be down south until next month. So, A. Cooper... enjoy this and see you soon!
Speaking of homies.. I recently caught up with a long lost friend and serious vinyl king. We hadn't spoke in years. Not much has changed, we're both still super fiendy for the really rare records. We've both gone through all kinds of up and downs in our parenting experiences, tried our best to keep our vinyl habits at bay, and enjoyed being dads. James and I were chatting on the phone about records and he told me about his site.
http://discokid.net/
It's a freakin' amazing site. Tons of incredibly rare records, all super tasty. Nice tracks, cool mixes, and funny video clips. He's a stickler for top condition and always discovering and sharing lethally rad tracks. It kept me up til' 6am the other day, and I've still gotta go back for more. He's added a few monsters to my wantlist, and I spent the rest of that evening picking my jaw off the floor. Too bad I'll spend the rest of my life savings as well. As he says on his site, sometimes going without food, just to get a particular tune. Nice one mate.




Jaye Williams - Let Me Be The One

Sound Advice - Keep On Getting Up

Just excellent modern soul. Strong as hell and layered with bubbling synth bass. This is a monster little 45, and I owe thanks for mine courtesy of earcave. Tons of good ish on that site, and often times very reasonably priced. Back to the track, which is a duet of sorts and keeps twisting and turning throughout. There's been some talk of a 'Duet' night being held at Sweaterfunk, but no word yet. I know we'd all be excited to bust some of the great duets we've all been collecting. We could call it 'Duet Fluid' or 'Let's Duet'.... We'll see..

This would definitely be one of my contributions. I don't know who the singers are but they carry the tune well. A bit later than my usual tastes for this sound, 1986 in fact, but surprising and pleasing nonetheless. Just an example to keep ears wide open. And, to Keep on Getting Up !!!


Sound Advice - Keep On Getting Up

Jady Kurrent Band - Standing There

More of the rare stuff. It's gone for 300-400$ and now maybe more. Looks like something you'd skip right past in a thrift store. Like the other hundreds of bad radio comps and Ronco, and buy it on TV records you see. But, this one has a special treat. A lone track by The Jady Kurrent Band. They had several releases after this and still perform to this day. In Fact you can hire them to play a gig. Imagine hearing 'Standing There' at your next party. But, the comp "Sound of The Streets" is the only way to grab this particular tastiness by JKB. It does also feature the incredible Angelo Tinsley tune that was comped by Kon and Amir. That's about when the record jumped in price. It never came out on 7" or LP, other than this. But, they did have later 7' releases. "Work This Way" which came out in 86 or 87 is pretty tasty as well. 'Standing There' is smooth and classy. It's essentially indie-boogie. The soft and subtle nuances will grow on you every listen. I didn't want it right away, but after hearing it in my head, I had to have it. That's the key as a songwriter and musician..if you can plant that infectious seed, then you've got folks sprung. The Jady Kurrent Band have done just that.


Jady Kurrent Band - Standing There

Danny Williams - Rat Race

I don't think I've heard a more delectable 45. Whispering backing vocals, sneaky horns, smooth wah-wah and general unpredictability make this a prime example of the unique qualities of Bay Area funk and soul. Quite possibly one of the best local 45 I've ever laid ears on, popping and bumping along representing both sloppy and smooth. It's free-ness and tight syncopation make for a magical combination. Listening to it, it's hard to know what to expect, but by the time the whole song comes together, it's over. I know, I know...I've done a lot of genre-fying lately, and yet again, I'm gonna have to hit you with it again. It's a tune that's often labeled 'cross-over' perhaps because 'northern' and 'modern' soul dj's played it out when branching their sets out. It does definitely 'cross-over' into something new, or perhaps some other sound sphere. But, I think it's more aptly defined as 'free soul' or 'indie soul' because it just sounds more...well..free. It's tone and structure steers well out of the way of commercial sound and is independent in nature. Like many others and true to funk 45 form, the flip is an upbeat northern number "All Those Lies". Also, a quality tune and probably more appropriately coined 'cross-over', but not nearly as tasty as "Rat Race".

There's two major traits I'm noticing with Bay Area sound in this particular era, both with this and the previous 'Soft Touch' post.
1. There's incredible tightness, yet the overall vibe is sloppy and free sounding. Almost effortless and relaxed yet obviously complicated. (This seems to be quite prevalent in many Bay Area funk and soul artists.)
2. The mood and approach is all about capturing the purest of 'Superfly' feeling, like the slickest, smoothest pimp music you've ever heard, yet the messages are positive and socially conscious.

It's all contributing to making me extremely proud of this area and its rich musical history. On a side note - Ive been enjoying another local purveyor, collector and DJ - Kid Inquisitive and his fantastic site, check it out here
www.soulpersuasion.blogspot.com
It's well worth your time. Lots and lots of other interesting Bay Area stuff.
I quested for this "Rat Race"45 for a good long time. When I asked, I either got the 'never heard of it', or had to silently watch it disappear for thousands of dollars on ebay. Now, like a good collector and in true blue 'soundboutique' fashion, I'm sharing it with you. Hopefully you won't have to pay as much as I did. I assure you, it IS worth it. But, please don't rub it in if you found it in mint condition for a dollar.


Danny Williams - Rat Race

Soft Touch - Plenty Action

This was a tune that I almost got to expose or 'break' if you will. It was several months later that DJ Shadow released his tune that reworked this 45. When I came across this I knew I had stumbled onto gold. I got to flip through a collection of 45's from a long 'out of business' local record store. And, in it were lots of interesting and rarely seen before records. There were a few copies of this, so we put a few on ebay, but folks just didn't seem know this title at all. When we put sound samples up they started to sell much better. Then of course Shadow sampled it, and the remaining copies went for crazy dough. I'm sure very few cats at the time knew about this tune. Soft Touch's "Plenty Action" is deep heavy funk all the way. This is a sharp tune that sounds as if it were a pimps anthem, yet is a bit more subtle. It assures one that there is plenty of women, and if you're not ready, or finished 'getting down' then they won't want you hanging around. You've got to make her feel good, and you've got to have money - Seems like a simple formula right? It's a positive song actually, but the tone is on some serious mack and pimp vibe.
On the Sundance record label with a tiny San Francisco P.O. box address on the bottom.


Soft Touch - Plenty Action

Blue Feather - Shadows Of The Night

Dutch Boogie funksters Blue Feather had always been a favorite of mine. Ever since I went mad for boogie stuff and did my research all over the internet, they've been on that list of stuff I'm seriously after. I recall I may have been hipped to them via tiny little sound clips, extremely low in quality via the Boogie Times site. I ransacked every album and artist page listening to every sound sample on that site. It's a good place to start as well. They were popular and favored more for the slightly earlier stuff, like "Let's Funk Tonight" which was a big hit for them. Yet, that stuff, circa '82, was more of a funk disco sound, and less synthesiser and drum machines. This particular song, and the rest of the LP by the same name is just the opposite. This LP from 1985 is drenched in heavy synth, drum machine, and fat synth bass lines. All the while still maintaining their smooth vocal prowess and soulful almost easy rock style.
This is just the first track from the LP, although I highly recommend the entire album. "Funky Nights", "Feelgood", and "This Night We Stick Together" are all gems from the LP.
It might not be to taste for most. And, in fact this falls into my current project of 'blue-eyed boogie' stuff. But, a good example of some white guys with a whole lot of unpretentious soul can do. They might not be that crafty but, they are going for what they know. That my friends, is what heart and soul are all about.

This same LP has been re-issued by the PTG folks and they make quality shit. Their re-issues as well as this particular release are ALL highly recommended. You can check them out here... www.vinyl-masterpiece.com
I'm not ripping the whole LP, but you may be able to find it elsewhere on the net.
I'm only suggesting that until you find an original or grab the re-issue.

Enjoy this Dutch Boogie Dopeness!


Blue Feather - Shadows Of The Night

Ultimate Choice - Get it Up / It's Hot

Not really club boogie, but serious heavyweight bangers. They're more of funk anthems of mine. I picked this up and had no intention of playing it out, but it was about the best double sided banger I had ever heard. This is an example of tracks I absolutely cannot resist. I'm drawn into these grooves with the force of the death star tractor beam. Head nodding from beginning to end, on sides A & B. Both sides encourage you to chant along as they chug along with a passionate funk fury. This is when you realize that not much has changed..bands laid down heavy funk in 73, and other bands did exactly the same in 83. Just with synths and slap bass. Thank heaven for them. And, I'm thankful I picked this up when I did. It's becoming increasingly harder to find. People still sleep on the variety of great music on the Montage label. Miss Criola and the later Mandrill LP for example. Sure, there's Rose Royce and Sexual Harassment, but if you dig deeper Montage is too, a treasure trove of talent. This again, is a Soundboutique exclusive. Both sides served up for your listening pleasure.



Ultimate Choice - Get it Up



Ultimate Choice - It's Hot

Charles Veal - If You Ever Need Somebody

I just picked this LP up recently, and surprisingly, I've seen a few of them here and there a lot lately. Partly its somewhat unknown, but most cats these days know that the late 70's early 80's capitol stuff is golden. "If You Ever Need Somebody" has got a nice simple structure and tight string nuances. So, it makes sense his start was as a violinist and symphony conductor. He had two albums that I know of, and this excellent song is from the "Only The Best" LP from 1980. This song is also available on 12 inch and 7 inch. But, again.. this era for 12's on Capitol, even though they are a major label, are becoming hard as shit to find.




Charles Veal - If You Ever Need Somebody

Percy And Artie Space Band - Funk With You

EXCLUSIVE!!

A true Soundboutique exclusive track.

You won't find this any where else. Had to have it, never seent it before, and found nothin' about it nowhere. All I have to say about this particular post is What The Fuck!! Crazy ass space funk on a rare 45 from 1982. An infections groove and a gimmick about aliens fiending for human 'booty'. Ok, they got me. I'm all in. I've seen some good sci-fi movies. But, the whole concept of aliens coming to earth for these fine tenda'ronies we got up in here..like I said..I'm SOLD. If any one knows anything about this group please message me or post it up. Sounds like it was made on the same distant planet as the Pyramid Plus 45. It's a little silly at times, but pure alien funk nonetheless. Enjoy y'all, this one's a Soundboutique exclusive!



Percy And Artie Space Band - Funk With You

The Gospel Miracles - Building Up Myself

Gospel Boogie. I'm finding more and more these days. It's a natural progression for stubborn boogie heads like myself. Gospel music is like the second chapter of American Rhythm, Blues and Soul History. It's there whenever you're ready for it. Just like Jesus. Ok, I'll stop there.
It's often under exposed and rarely heard about except within it's own circuits. It's artists are seemingly unknown to most, yet cherished by true soul collectors. It's a largely unheralded music, especially in the pop world, and only survives on the radio one day a week. I have a more intimate experience with gospel. I picked up, or found several records by Myrna Summer, James Cleveland, Violinaires, Rance Allen and a few others. Flipped through them, listened, found a few with slower funkier grooves, and stuffed them all away. Yet, I was to re-visit them again. Long ago I went through a heartbreak, and I sat alone in my apartment completely surrounded by records. I was busted, sad as hell, and lonely. All I had was my chunes and they couldn't give me a hug or comfort me. Who was there for me? No one really. Aside from a great friend or two, I was dealing on my own. But, I remember clear as day how gospel records saved my ass. I threw on that James Cleveland and my salvation began. I was deep into it. I connected with the deep down and sorrowful tones and was inspired by the hopefulness and positivity. That James Cleveland LP and a magical few others earned a special place in my collection.
So, as a result I've always been open to and questing for more great gospel records. I tend to rifle through the gospel sections as importantly as I do the soul sections. But, it's rare that there is a section at all, even rarer when there's anything in it. Got this Gospel Miracles LP "Down through The Years...The Lord Has Been Good To Me" and enjoyed it. Long title eh? This tune "Building Up Myself" is a smooth one. Played it on Sunday at Sweaterfunk and wanted to spread the word even further. Hallelujah!

The Gospel Miracles - Building Up Myself

Rasa - Questions In My Mind

Recently I've been throwing a pile of records together that I'm hoping will resemble some kind of theme. What I've got so far is a bunch of Blue-eyed Boogie, Yacht Soul, Funky Rock, and late 70's disco pop rock. Hopefully it will resemble the theme I'm thinking of, and I think I'm gonna call it "Bow Tie Funk". In that quest for more of that same sound and any thing that might strike me as the quintessential track for the comp, I'm flipping through more rock records than ever. Recently I came across this Rasa LP. Now, I'm a huge fan of hippy funk, so already it's a treat of an LP for me. I feel as though I've seen this record everywhere, and maybe even passed on it a few times. So, I give it a listen. I'm drawn to this 'Questions' song right away as the stand out track. It's from this Lp "Everything You See Is Me" and mostly a groovy rock, hippy thing but, it certainly has its moments. The melodies left an imprint that lasted throughout the rest of my week long digging vacation. So, it'll most definitely make it on my mix/comp. and just thought I'd throw it up here as well. This blog will be updated when the mix is ready and a few nuggets from it may show up here before as well. In fact, I'm so lazy and busy (yes, both at the same time) it may not be a mix and end up just being several tracks on this blog. We shall see, but for now..n-joy!

COMING SOON - BOW TIE FUNK

Rasa - Questions In My Mind

Luther Davis Group - To Be Free

This has been comped by Funk Spectrum 3 and the Stones Throw re-issue label Soul Cal. But this piece of genius soul funk hails from Bakersfield of all places. A sweeping dancer but as indie as can be. See my last post. I think originally I started hearing about a new pocket of tunes that were making the rounds among the 'heads' and were getting the name 'free-soul' from mostly Japanese cats. The likes of Jon Lucien, Linda Lewis, Larry Saunders and JOB Orchestra. But, this was some time ago, and Free-Soul has come and gone as a genre. Nothing more than a name to help fellow enthusiasts via magazine and web. But, it turned me on to numerous gems. I have the Japanese to thank for turning me onto Linda Lewis, but that's another story (and a future post) and another chapter. So, this little tune, the flip to "You Can Be A Star" (Also Incredible- will post it soon as well) would also pass as Free-soul. Just kinda different, and well..free. Possibly meaning as well that it doesn't cater (or seem to) to any kind of pop standards. Smooth as hell yet still kinda home spun and hippy. Not really disco, but has the disco vibe. Not Funk, but very funky. In fact quite folky really. Just great rhythms, amazing harmonies and sweet brass melodies. Nothing like a space sweep to top it off. Just a genius soul tune, and indeed also a qualifier as indie-soul.

Luther Davis Group - To Be Free

Eilijah Rock - Piece Of The Rock

While at a BBQ picnic reunion this weekend, I got to chopping it up with a long time friend and soul buddy Kirk Harper. We got to talking about savagely awesome soul vocalists and some that leave a little more to be desired. True some soul singers 'bring it' and other just don't have the 'pipes'. But, I pointed out that in both old and new stuff there's the appeal of the unusual tones and non-classic training or talent. In fact I've noticed this because of the growing interests I'm developing in something I think is best coined as 'Indie-Soul'. We've seen the genius of the home studio types, George Smallwood, Lonnie Hewitt, and the tinkering of Shuggie Otis. And, newer stuff like Cody Chestnutt all the way to Myron and E. Not to say (AT ALL) that these cats aren't talented, in fact quite the opposite, but that the vocal stylings are a little more un-conventional. Which for me as a collector and enthusiast makes it all the more genius. In all of the instances in fact, I'm a huge fan. Often times for me its even better than the standard soul singer. If there is such a thing. Give it to me lo-fi, raggedy, raspy, janky, and dodgy sounding as possible. Sometimes, you gotta turn down the talent, boost up the creativity, and the outcome is more intimate and real.
Enter Elijah Rock. I know nothing about this man, but the legacy he leaves us in a few inches of a few soul records is remarkable. I couldn't find this tune anywhere on the net. Nowhere! And, there's little to be had in his small catalog except for the two seven's I have. This little 45 "Piece Of The Rock" on the label of the same name sounds as though it was recorded in one take and all played by Mr. Rock. Now, I could be wrong, but listen for yourself. Hopefully you'll enjoy this premiere, this rare piece of boogie keyboard funk and obscure off the beaten path indie soul.

Eilijah Rock - Piece Of The Rock