The Harold Smith Majestics - Lord, Help Me To Hold Out

It's Sunday folks and I'm gonna drag your ass to church! Time for some more good old gospel. Today we have the mighty Majestics and their fabulous choir. Another fine presentation from James Cleveland. This song was a 'hit' for Mr. Cleveland and the Majestics, although that's hard to say that when gospel music is so separated from the mainstream. Those in the gospel recording biz know that they've been searching for their 'own' voice and challenged with reaching wider audiences. And, being subject to easy dismissal.
As many of us that have been digging through piles of soul, funk and blues from the 1950's until the mid 1980's for a long time, we're starting to feel like every stone has been turned and all the good stuff is already exposed. This is NOT true of course, but it does justify opening newer and alternate doors. Gospel is an epic oasis of great soul music. It's a mostly untapped chapter in soul and American rhythm and blues. It's been sitting patiently right along side commercial and pop offerings for as long as any us can remember. For me, it's been a great source of amazing stuff and I'm heading more and more in that direction.
This tune was in fact one of the very first gospel tunes that really opened me up. I sat in a empty three bedroom house, all alone, and grieving over the loss of a girlfriend. There I was shedding tears and realizing that the records surrounding me floor to ceiling couldn't exactly give me a hug. So, I learned a hard lesson at that young age, never place your obsessions for music, collecting or making music higher than your actual 'personal' connections with people. So it was for me. That's how it was. Record shows very early in the AM, on the phone talking about trading, hunting records down, trading at people's houses and then DJ'ing until 2am. Nothing wrong with all this mind you, but for me, I needed to apply the e-brake.  But, in my moment of grieving, records did come to my aid. In particular I turned to the healing powers of Al Green. We all know he made 'make-up' music, but he was also the perfect author for 'break-up' music. Then, I flipped through a pile that I had picked up for free some where, just because they looked like they might be good. Harold Smith, The Violinaires, James Cleveland, Highway GC's, Rance Allen, and The Clark Sisters were all in this pile. All of them had the right components, similar to the funk records I was picking up, so why not?
I remember that 'Lord, Help Me To Hold' sunk deep into my chest with a potato sack full of truly moving soul. It's funky, that's a plus. Slow moving, heavy, thunderous soul music. When the singer (still not sure if it's James Cleveland or Harold Smith) comes in, it's in a commanding voice, sturdy and solid like a battle tank. This is exactly how I like my gospel...thick throated, a handful of soul claps and little tickle of B-3.

The Harold Smith Majestics - Lord, Help Me To Hold Out

The Eddy Grant Special

EXCLUSIVE WORLD PREMIER TRIBUTE TO  

EDDY GRANT AND THE EQUALS

Time to make way for one of the absolute and undeniable kings of music in my eyes. Often a guy who is lesser known and perhaps never really received his 'due'. I'd put him up there with some of my all time favorite top cats, Arthur Lee or George Clinton, who, in my eyes, really made tracks in their own distinct directions. Eddy wasn't a complete lyrical genius like Arthur Lee, but he could craft a catchy pop tune out of a wet paper bag. He wasn't the founding father of psychedelic funk like George Clinton, but everything he did had a 'funky' edge, even his rock and roll is tuff, soulful and rythmatical. He had some kind of undeniable energy that made everything irresistibly charming and jump right out of the speakers into your lap. Many of his songs, whether they are bubble gum pop, skin head soul, reggae, garage punk, or plain ole rock and roll, they always have another edge to them, and are seriously chock full of potent energy. If there ever was undertones to music or something you could read between the lines it was with Eddy Grant. To me, his freedom to bounce in and out of so many genres made him an endlessly invaluable innovator. I think his only downfall was staying too much in one pocket, mostly being reggae, but somehow he made that work and made tons of money from it.


We all know what it sounds like to take a walk down 'Electric Avenue' but, his rich history is seemingly unknown. I had heard faint whispers online that somewhere someone was going to release a complete Eddy Grant compilation. I forget who it was...Soul Strut? Soul Jazz? Perhaps I will beat them to it here. But, it definitely needs to be accomplished. The man deserves to be known for what is really the bigger Eddy Grant picture
He proves my 'energy' theory with an extended rap sheet of other projects. Not only has he released a ton of other records recording under different names, he's produced so much and been in so many other groups, many of us, myself included are still trying to piece it all together. I will attempt to break the ice on this fascinating untold story. No pun (he was on Ice Records for a while) in tented there.
This may take 2, 3 or even 4 parts to tell his story and post the according tracks. But, in order to do it proper it will take time. The sheer magnitude of what he's done would probably be a 15 CD box set if you catch my drift. And, I'd like to avoid the attention of any copyright infringement issues with our insignificant offerings.

First up, right down to business, from the funky era we have The Equals 'Mystic Sister' from the LP of the same name. Its frightfully experimental with it's jarring, nails on a chalkboard, type of keyboard riff that sounds as though it's partially submerged under water. Yet, the feeling is resurrected with Eddy's powerful almost shouting chants and a few funky 'well, well, wells' thrown in for good measure. Head cracking drums and some early use of synthesisers round it out. One thing about the equals I should start out with is just how amazing they look throughout time. If you have an affinity for mixed race bands that  are draped in 60's through 70's rags, then they're your band. With all the UK, European and Japanese singles that were released, you've got a treasure trove of killer looking covers to collect.


The Equals - Mystic Syster

Next up is 'Diversion' from The Equals. Early fuzzy punk goodness from 1973. Pure mix of glam and punk that easily earns these guys a 'founding fathers of punk' award from me. The guitar rips like a chainsaw and the song crashes along, with mass of maracas and symbols crashing in your ears. Eddy's referencing his 'diversion' as a tale of being thrown in jail for a bit, but he's back. And, back with a vengeance in this killer 60's inspired punk stomp. I love his 'yelps', 'ahs', and 'yeows' and the general raspiness in his voice. His screaming and carrying on make young R&B punk lords The Pretty Things sound docile in comparison.

The Equals - Diversion




Another one from the early days. Brought up from the deepest caverns of garage and punk rock history. 'My Life Ain't Easy' from their first LP. Hard ass drums and fuzz guitar that sounds as if it were recorded in a distant room. All the while with well put harmonizing backing vocals and Eddy screaming on top. There's some interesting things to look at when looking at the career of Eddy Grant and The Equals and the beginning releases. Released in the same year as Sly And The Family Stone's 'A Whole New Thing' one has to question just how ready the industry was to promote mixed race groups. In 1967 when it was released, the American version on Laurie had negative and positive exposures of their band picture, and the UK version on the President label had a strangely suspect and oddly 'colorized' looking picture of them. Makes me wonder what boundaries they encountered as a group in those early days. I'd love to interview Eddy at some point and get all of this info first hand.

The Equals - My Life Ain't Easy

UK version released on President

US version on Laurie

This next classic of his was reworked through several time periods. I've counted a total of 4 different versions of the same song. There may be more, but we'll highlight 2 of the best versions of 'Nobody's Got Time' for this special. This first version is from his very first self titled solo outing on Torpedo records. It's a different mix from the 7 inch version, which is killer as well, but this version is longer and just as lethal. I'll definitely rip the 7 inch soon, because it is jaw dropping heavy funk. It's a damn hard LP to find and really shows what potential he had. It's rock, it's funk, it's reggae, it's really all over the place. But, good and interesting throughout. This LP is a super big treat for y'all. I dug around quite a bit and couldn't find any of this ANYWHERE. So, I'm pretty sure it's a Soundboutique exclusive.

Eddy Grant - Nobody's Got Time (Torpedo LP version)





Then the later version released in 1980 on the 'Love In Exile' LP which became a classic in the loft classic, disco, and cosmic DJ crowds. The dub version of 'Nobody's' is still in great demand. Haunting vocals, sweeping atmosphere, strange keyboards, and the basis for an electro orgasm you can see why. I still prefer the vocal version, just because I am EG's biggest fan. You can't beat a harmonica solo right dab in the middle. You can also see how a dubbed version could cause your head to start to cave in. It's a lethal version later available by the Coach House Rhythm Section on a Ice Records 12 inch.

Eddy Grant - Nobody's Got Time (1980 version)

Last, but not least another tune that seems to pop up here and there. I think there are three versions of this as well. This is yet another heavy treat and from this mega rare first LP 'self titled' from Eddy Grant. A monster funk tune, just raw and gritty. It's a trip to hear many of his tunes as they progressed and changed and cleaned up and got organized. These version from this album as dirty, raw and fairly unpolished. Nice! We like it like that. But, you'll see in the next part of this special on Eddy Grant what a good shave, shit and a shower can do for his tunes. We'll post up a lot more in a part two and/or three...like Black Skinned Blue Eyed Boys, Baby Come Back, Funky Like A Train, I Get So Excited, I can't See But You Don't Know, and the many other versions of Stone Cold Cat and Nobody's Got Time.

Eddy Grant - Stone Cold Cat (Torpedo LP version)

Self Titled LP on Torpedo

World Premier, shhhht. I crack myself up sometimes.

The Floaters Feat. Shu-Ga - Make It Hot

Friday night funk for my Saturday night Brothers. And, sisters. 
Here's a nice tough little jammie. I was playing this out quite a bit over the last year and felt it deserved a resurrection here. This tune is slammin' boogie funk at it's best. It's an epic tune as well, close to ten minutes in length bouncing back and forth from instrumental to vocal. The Floaters and Shu Ga have said to 'Make It Hot' and they have indeed done just that.

The Floaters are most well know for the chart topping 'Float On' in which they made the cheesy 'what's you sign?' rap a household skit. Rather, leaning into the mic with a deep baritone voice and stating your astrological sign. That song was parodied by everybody from Sesame Street to Cheech and Chong. Yum, a hamburger. A hamburger than gets on everything and everybody. Check it.

Originally from Detroit they started in the mid seventies and continued through the early eighties. They stemmed from the fantastic well know group the Detroit Emeralds. Even though they scored a major hit with 'Float On' they got pegged as 'one hit wonders' but, thankfully they kept right on floating on and gave us this killer LP. This LP 'Get Ready for the Floaters and Shu Ga' is from 1981. It's a little bit hard to find, and on the small indie label Fee-troit, but extremely well worth the hunt.

This tune was featured on a Truth Is Light edit, so this is also available for 10 to 12 bucks from those folks. Although, they edited it into a strictly instrumental version, and this vocal version is far more superior in my eyes.

This track seriously sizzles. If you're like me, you'll fall in love with it. When I first heard it, I had never heard something so tasty. Wicked. We hope that Soundboutique is your favorite disco spot just like they say in the song.


Straight up, not much else needs to be said other than this is my effin' jam.

The Floaters Feat. Shu-Ga - Make It Hot

Vandales - Feeling Freaky (soundboutique edit)

A ridiculously infections party disco groove, cutesy little love bug style song. In fact, the guitar sounds a bit like a bee buzzing about. Not much on these guys either, just this one 45. Great vocals and a groove that you'll have to listen to over and over again to realize how layered it is. It's rich with strings, horns, and some killer flute playing. Again, another record that's layered heavily with multiple guitars. The flip side is part two, and keeps going with more of the same. This is one that may take time to grow on you. But, it's a silent deadly killer. Disco fast food if you will, engineered for your enjoyment.

Update: Right before posting this I decided to re-edit both sides together. So, now you get part one and part two all in one track. I've never posted any of my edits. Not one single damn edit. So, this is a first for this blog. Maybe, there'll be more. But, I really couldn't just leave you with only this one side of this 45. I had to share the extended version. Or, rather make it an extended version. So, here you go..my first edit on the crappy Audacity program. Somebody get me Protools or Cubase PLEASE! Again, this is a true soundboutique exclusive just for you.

I was going to ask a contest question:
Who can tell me at what point the song is edited from part one to two?
(Hint: it's not where you would think it is)
But, two major problems arose with this contest question idea.
1. I have no prize.
2. I forgot where the edit is myself!
Well, so much for that idea. But, for the first official soundboutique edit, it's freakin' CLEAN. Brand new baby spankin' clean. So, clean in fact that it's better than the original studio edit where they punch in the backing vocals. Oh, well. If you can guess it (for example...like 1min43sec) and it's close, you may win something. Or, whoever is closest, still don't know what the prize would be...but, perhaps I can whip something up. Let's just say I'm proud of myself and leave it at that.

Vandales - Feeling Freaky (soundboutique edit)

Now 'N - The Bomb

Here's a cute one. From the 'We're Just A School Band' EP released in 1983. I'm not sure what they're saying in this one, I can barely make out the lyrics. What I can make out is cool enough. But, for some kids they come up with a nice lil' art-disco-rock thingy and it's quite charming in its own goofy way. I don't know why but these kids seem to be influenced by The Clash more than just a little bit. Don't you think so? Not sure what it is that makes me think that, but it's odd enough, punk enough, and funky enough that somehow that makes sense. Perhaps its the echoing sax solo. Maybe it's the lyrics about bombs and revolution. Kids make the freshest stuff, totally new, hybrid and free of conventional rules. Other than that, this tune is WICKEDLY African sounding, almost highlife disco funk if you will.
Rad picture sleeve with them on the cover in the early morning mist, maybe in their school yard. Would kill to hear the story behind this one, and how they got to make this record. Teachers are rad.  Teachers are rad. Teachers are rad. Especially if they help kids make reckkids!!!!
From the looks of the names they are dutch, but they're a cool looking diverse bunch. I love how Bass is Bas, Guitar is Gitaar, and if you want me to Zang you a tune, you'll soon learn I'm not the best Zanger. Reminds me of something out of 'I Love You Man' like, when I slappa da bas.
Mon. 
So, if you were in this band or had school mates that cut this record give me a call! I wanna talk to you. And, if you've never heard of these kids like me, take a listen to this number and see what these cool kids came up with. 'So when I try to change the subject......' La la la. I'm pretty sure it's like nothing you've ever heard before.



Now 'N - The Bomb

Mellaa - Free

Mellaa has this killer 45, which both sides are exquisite in my eyes, and one other boogie jam on the rare and sought after Budweiser label. Here we have two sides of brilliant underground soul on one of my favorite labels, Larc. Part of doing this blog and uncovering these obscure artists is sometimes there's not much to share. Except the actual music itself. Just happens to be I know nothing about Mellaa. Just that this seems to fit yet another 'catagory' I learned from (again) the Japanese record cats. 'Free Soul' much like 'Modern Soul' seems to be a really loose term and can be from a range of decades. A lot of times it just fits for everything that doesn't fall into another obvious category. But, there is something uniquely 'free' about this 'Free Soul' tune other than it's obvious title. It's kinda jazzy, kinda soul, and rather strange. But, completely dope nonetheless. This tune travels around a bit jumping from thing to thing all in a carefree way. Part of enjoying it, is not knowing where exactly it will end up. All of these elements are traits of what 'Free Soul' means to me. Seems like this is a logical answer and segue from the last Odyssey post. I hope you enjoy.



Mellaa - Free

Odyssey - Our Lives Are Shaped By What We Love

So, I almost never loan out any of my LP's. But, recently I made an exception for the fine folks at Light In The Attic records. Turns out they are gathering tracks for a compilation of stuff released on the MoWest label. MoWest was a subsidiary of Motown that was designed to cover the West coast and be based in Los Angeles. The LITA folks had been looking for quite a while for a clean copy of the Odyssey LP. Not the Odyssey disco group from the New York area, but the hippie funk rock group from California. They were around a few years before the New York group. It's a seriously hard LP to get in clean shape with a decent cover. It's a dark brown cover and most copies have severe ring wear, or just heavy fading. I actually have a strange copy of this record, probably the cleanest copy I've ever seen. The nice cats at Light In The Attic Records got my info from my homie Jon Blunck. I'm still trying to figure out how he even knew I had this particular LP, as we never play this kind of stuff at Sweaterfunk. The chances of him hearing me play this are slim to none. But, somehow he suggested they give me a call. My response to both Jon and the LITA people was a resounding no. There's was no way I could find this LP. I had no idea where it was, haven't seen it for months, maybe years, and don't have anything in my collection in ANY kind of order. So, I answered 'not likely' and didn't put any more thought into it.

Well, it just so happened that during Xmas time my brother Andy was in town. He was over at my place and noticed some Coleman Hawkins records I had pulled aside for him. He had given me these records many years ago, and I promised I would give them back at last years Xmas gathering. We got down on our knees are flipped thru the whole pile looking for more Coleman Hawkins. Once I pulled aside a bunch of stuff he wanted I started finding a bunch of things I was looking for in the surrounding records. A few things I wasn't looking for, but was cool to see again. And, a few things I HAD been looking for. Well, it just so happened that I found my copy of this Odyssey LP. Ultimately I sent it to the LITA folks and it was confirmed that it was the cleanest copy they had all seen. My copy of this LP is a bit strange. It's actually a dutch issue of the LP and has that layer of gloss only on the front cover. This issue is surprisingly put out by Rare Earth Records which of course is another Motown subsidiary. The fact is has this protective layer of plastic built into the cover has protected it well over the years.
So, the moral of the story...flip through your own shit! You may have a goldmine right under your nose. Funny how if they weren't my records in that pile I would have gone through them in a heartbeat.

Cool, so now I get to see my copy on the cover of LITA's new compilation. And, they were nice enough to grace me with a few of their fine releases. So we'll give them a big shout and plug when this comp comes out and probably feature their future releases as well. Really nice folks over there and really quality releases on that label.

So, this tune by Odyssey was probably thee very first hippie soul or folk funk tune that I ever fell deeply in love with. It's simply a majestic and charismatic tune. So calm and gentle yet deep, funky and soulful. I think the first format I had this in was on 45. I had looped the first two or three measures and just played them over and over again. Still its a solid tune as a whole, delicious from start to finish. To me, this is what hippie soul and folk funk is all about. It's about something more seductive then just out right hard funk. It's about a positive or introspective message. It's tinged with just a hint of psychedelic flavor and often riding on the cusp of an acid trip. It's about the merge and harmony between rock and soul. A perfect hybrid developed and groomed right from the waves of late 60's and mid 70's AM radio. Bands Like Odyssey had a mixed race cast of characters and this particular outfit was comprised of several session players. Some of the singers went on to providing backing vocals for Ambrosia and Steely Dan. Odyssey didn't record anymore and this was their only release. Aside from having a 45 released of 'Our Lives..' this great group never hit the charts or made much of a name for themselves. However, in the rare groove and folk funk circuit this LP and this group are well loved. You can't get this LP for less than $150-200 these days and once this LITA comp drops.. expect that to hike the price up a bit. Some like this LP through and through, and at times I'm one of them. Most would agree that the stand out tracks are this one, and 'Battened Ships'. 'Ships' is a bit more of a modern groover with a big brass arrangement that almost sounds salsa inspired. It's definitely a dancer where as 'Our Lives...' is just mellow madness. Perhaps I'll put up 'Ships' when the compilation comes out, but I have a feeling there's going to be many good tracks to choose from.

For many of you familiar with this blog, you'll be well aware that I often meander in the categories section of things quite a bit. I assure you there is purpose behind my standings on this subject. In speaking about Odyssey over the last few weeks, many don't seem to know where to really put a group like Odyssey. Either people thought they were a rock group or a soul group. But, that just doesn't quite encapsulate their true sound. So, Hippie Soul or Folk Funk as a category opens up opportunity to explore more artist like this. Or, the desire to find more that sound like this. My Argument: If you ever handed me a record and I didn't know it..and you said it's perfect Hippie Soul..I'd ultimately know exactly what you meant and would buy it without listening to it. How do you know if you're a folk funk group? Well, like Odyssey, you're probably recording with choir like backing vocals and a vibes solo to boot. Then you go out to beach and shoot a trippy LP cover photo? The answer is...for crying out loud!  You're a funkin' hippie group!   I rest my case.


Odyssey - Our Lives Are Shaped By What We Love

Char - Shinin' You Shinin' Day

Due to popular demand, I had to post this up. It was one of those situations where I actually thought I had already done it. Even the mp3 was already loaded up on media fire. But, it seems I've had some slippage. I was wrong indeed. No worries. If at any point you notice I am double posting, it's not because I'm trying to cheat, I'm just actually getting a little senile. Here it is, in all its splendor. This fantastic man (or group) Char. I think the name does refer to the actual dude Char, based on interviews I've seen of him on Japanese TV. Either way, Char is mostly a rock and roll outfit. This is one of those exceptions. Feeling the tides of soft rock and fine mist of quiet storms, Char crafted this epic tune. I'm ALL in on this one. Definitely my shit. I've said it before (perhaps waaaay tooo much) but, I'm hell bent on this mission to connect the many great things I'm finding in the soft rock and funky rock soul vein from japan to that of its US counterpart. Seems as though Boz Scaggs, Bobby Caldwell and even the likes of Fleetwood Mac and Steely Dan sent waves that crashed on the shores of Okinawa. Thing is, some of the Japanese soft rock is even light years better. Case in point this tune.

The vibe and groove of this tune is lethal. Even with a lengthy guitar solo, which feels so dated and outdoor rock festival-ish, it still manages to kill me. If you know anything about my tastes, you'll know how much I love the imperfections in this singers English accent. It's not how you say it, so much as what you're actually saying. And, this song has a happy little positive message. Love it. Then it gets brutal, at about two and a half minutes in, they cave my head in with this synth and guitar thing. Sounds like they're showing Blue Oyster Cult what it really sounds like to be the cheer squad for Godzilla. Nice chanting vocals, goofy-but endlessly cool-lyrics and a mid-tempo groove. Great synthesiser action throughout, tasty flute, falsetto highlights, it all adds up to one tasty bowl of Blue eyed inspired Japanese Boogie funk. Stir it around a bit, let the miso mix with the tofu bits. You'll thank us for it.

Char - Shinin' You Shinin' Day

Ned Doheny - Get It Up For Love

This isn't going to sound entirely fair, but here's another one from the white guys. Partly that's not fair because Ned Doheny is not just another 'anything' in any sense. He's got a remarkable trail of goodies. From his disco rock dancer 'Prove My Love' to a rare 80's LP I still have not found for a reasonable price. Judging from this cover he's being marketed like someone we know all too well, Robert Palmer. Or, the like I suppose. But, Ned has been proving more than his love. He's turned out to be more rewarding than just your average 'yacht rock' shite. Even when you're me...and you LOVE shite yacht rock.
Far from being shite really. Here's a guy who seems to have 'Earth, Wind And Fire' trapped up in his chest and soul is oozing on every album.
This tune start out like the music from Kubrick's 'Clockwork Orange' and eclipses into the loveliest of hippie funkdom reaches a plateau of late night loft classiness. Amazing really, this tunes does my head in quite well. Just so freakin' lazy and cool yet so irresistibly funky.

From his 1976 'Hard Candy' LP this song was also used by Tata Vega for a disco version. Most seem to know her version, but have never even heard of poor ole Ned. Ned Doheny had 5 albums in total and was immensely popular in Japan and Europe. More so in Japan. Several of his LP's also were released in Japan at the same time as over here. Could also be why you can't find any of his joints on this side. All his shit was bought up long ago buy Japanese dealers and collectors. Nice work gang, early appreciation gets the worm. Got to respect that. This only further confirms my suspicions about Japanese groups being heavily influenced by soft rock and blue-eyed boogie. So true, that something in artists like Ned Doheny bled right into Japanese artists like Char. Wait, have I posted anything by Char yet? Ok, shit. I'll get right on that. (I actually went and checked) Ok, it looks like I haven't got to that yet..so, here's what I'm talking about... Char - Shining You, Shining Day on YouTube. But, it'll go up next. But, with artists like Char and Tatsuro Yamashita it's obvious to me, they are replicating this small but delicious genre or, short lived era of groove rock or soft rock soul music. I've heard the young kids these days calling it 'groovy' well, that's certainly true. Kind of funny to us old folks as 'groovy' could just about identify anything.
So, back to Ned. He's the king of shit like this. And, THIS song proves that shit. Whether he took a back seat to Boz Scaggs or Robert Palmer because the FM bandwidth in peoples brains was so narrow or he just didn't get play on radio at all...he still deserves major credit. Credit for making sweet music and doing his thing, which at any time was not immensely popular to be doing.
Mr. Black Dick himself, D.J. Harvey even threw kudos to him and reminded disco folks that before Tata there was Ned by playing him at his gigs. If you're looking for more interesting and groovy white guys and theme music for floating around the harbor in a yacht then check out Ned. But, make sure you're getting on the boat with shorts and Sperry Topsiders or just a white suit with no shirt on. Important.


Ned Doheny - Get It Up For Love

The Faith Band - Riding High

All traces of this 45 seem to have vanished from the face of the earth. I bought this years ago and now can't find anything about it. Funny how sometimes these things can just disappear. I know it was released on Village records, and is indeed the same Faith Band that also cut a few records on Mercury records. They are a rock band with soul and sometimes a touch of funkiness. Perhaps they were influenced and or traveled down 'china grove' just like the Doobies. They seem like a slice from the same cake at least. This possible first release by them pins them as more of a straight soul or funk bar band. It's a tale of attitude and bravado that's, as they put it, 'strickly on the level'. Thanks guys for keeping it on the up and up with us. But, seriously there's pleasant lyrics, nice changes, tasty bridges and its an all around nice first outing. They seem to know that 'smooth and slow' is gonna yield a funkier outcome but they've got just enough 'unk' to make it pop. I like the multiple smart uses of Rhodes electric piano throughout the song. Not bad guitar solos from either two or three of the players or just one player well mixed together. Ultimately a good little track on the disco funk tip.

WARNING! WARNING!!
BEWARE the image pictured above is NOT associated with this tune. This came out on a 45 only and was never released on an album. I used this pic because it was an actual picture of the whole band. Again, you will NOT find THIS tune on THIS LP. Every once in awhile, it pays to read the actual writing in my posts. Right?

The Faith Band - Riding High

Jimmie And Vella Cameron - Be Fair To Me

Excellent Soul Duo that I've followed from their earliest release up until their 'Song Painters' LP in 1981. Partly my interest in them stemmed from them having killer looking covers. From the late 60's and early 70's mod look on the cover of 1968's 'Heartbeat' LP to the afro's and dashikis of 1971's self titled 'Jimmie And Vella' they've looked cool as ice. Then in 1981, none other than Barry White produced and arranged, and released on his own label 'Unlimited Gold' another marvelous soul LP. So, the other part of interest in initially picking them up was 'whoa, who are these two?'. Unfortunately, with three albums from three separate decades I'm still asking that same question. Not much is known about this husband and wife duo and they have had a ghost like career floating about through several decades with no real huge success. But, their legacy is deep and such a talented duo they are indeed.




Success might have eluded them, but milestones are what they left us on all three of these LP's. They bounced around on a different label for each decade. 'Heartbeat' is a quality straight soul LP with stunning production but it most known for the tune 'Hey Boy Over There' which was also flipped by DJ Premier. It's a great soul LP produced in a very typical style for 68-71 in Los Angeles. Released on the Imperial label.




In 1971 Jimmie and Vella expanded and deepened their sound with 'Jimmie And Vella' released on Atlantic Records. They turned away from commercial stresses, explored more folky grooves and wrote about social issues and injustice. In 'Lord Abide With Me' they came with a heavy gospel and revolutionary feel. This 'self-titled' LP is a fine crafting and example of 'hippie soul' or 'folk funk'. At times laid back and delicate and at other times empowering, passionate and furious. Just a well rounded work.

They spent some time laying low and dabbling in various studio projects, writing a few things here and there but, mostly went unheard from. Back and ready for more in 1981 they had a fresh new sound and another attempt at a hit. Taking a chance with one of the biggest hit makers of the late 70's they recorded 'Song Painters'.  There are several good tunes on here, but by far 'Be Fair To Me' is the best. With Barry White at the controls, the hit from the LP was no doubt going to be a disco tune. But, with the interesting disco arrangements Barry was trying with his late 70's Love Unlimited records it could be something really different. Indeed it was, hard to tell if that helped our happy couple out or not. The intro is so far from typical that it makes the main parts of the song stand out with their genius  and diverse syncopation. The amazing strings and that use of multiple guitars! Dang, what is that? Acoustic, two on rhythm, one on the upbeat? It's pretty crazy, such a full and intricate production.But, a marvelous and somewhat rare song.

I will definitely get around to posting tracks from the first two LP's. But, for now I wanted to share this fine tune 'Be Fair To Me' (also, I couldn't find my copy of the 1971 LP) and the others will come soon. One of these days when I'm more organized you'll see a more complete exposure of an artist like Jimmie and Vella and that'll be sweet, but for now you'll have to track them down on your own.
Just maybe you'd never heard of Jimmie and Vella before?
Happy hunting!

'Jimmie And Vella Cameron - Be Fair To Me'

Jackson Southernaires - Give It To Me Jesus

I'm often a dollar short and a day late. Just so the case because I'm busy yet again. Well, the first thing I thought about this last Sunday morning was posting some tasty gospel music. Of course, I was too busy and couldn't do it. Man, making my goal for this blog this year is gonna be hard. I'd like to double the amount of posts that I put up last year. So, eventually I pulled out about 10-20 gospel records from the collection and decided on this power stomper by The Jackson Southernaires. They actually just played this last weekend. How crazy is that shit! Perhaps, I felt their spirit! I don't actually know if it was that Sunday or the previous, but I did speak to a Gospel authority and it's confirmed they just played Oakland this last Sunday or the previous Sunday.


Let me say that picking one tasty tune from so many good ones was difficult. Especially when you start opening your ears to the gospel soul and funk sound. But, I'm digging and searching for more and more gospel these days. The good news is that now I've dug a few things up, you'll see (Or, hear rather) more posts on this genre. Perhaps I'll do a gospel Sunday regular thing.
Not only did I want to post a gospel tune when I woke up on Sunday, but I've been meaning to check out a church right here in a local neighborhood. The plan is for the family to check it out this upcoming Sunday.

I also wanted to pay respects and acknowledge Martin Luther King Day. It was a pleasure to do homework with my daughter this week. It was a huge project about MLK and it was a joy to see her open that door to an important page in history. She's really lights years from that experience and how important it has been for many of us. But, to chip away the ice and make it fresh and relevant to her was a pleasure and important challenge. So, how does it sound for Soundboutique to pay respects to Dr. King?
For me, what better way than to take it back to the old school, to where it all started for MLK himself, to the church. The good word, the gospel. And, if you will....part one of a soundtrack to MLK Day by yours truly and Soundboutique.

So, enjoy this gospel burner from The Southernaires from their 1979 'Legendary Gentlemen' on the Malaco label and let these words from The Rev. Martin Luther King ring true...

"Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice. Justice at its best is love correcting everything that stands against love."  Martin Luther King Jr. from 'Where Do We Go from Here'


Jackson Southernaires - Give It To Me Jesus

Eldridge Holmes - Pop, Popcorn Children

Well, well, well. Right down to brass tacks for the new year. Undisputed new heavy weight super funk. There's few tracks that bang along like a freight train, and this offering from Mr Holmes is one of them. Solid drum filled smoking hot funk goodness. When I stumbled across a few copies of this at a record convention many years ago, I knew I had hit a soul mine. This juicy 45 was desired by all my fellow funk hunters and honestly, I couldn't have found enough to meet the demand. Everybody wanted it. Nice to be able to trade such a caliber of 45. You'll hear why in a second. Eldridge had a few gems along the way, but never a full LP. Sad but true. Under the wing of Toussaint and fresh from Sehorns Soul farm Eldridge had the highest endorsement. With a nice tuff, raspy strong voice he laced tracks from early boogaloo to northern soul to bad ass funk. From 'Humpback' to 'Lovely Woman',  I don't know a tune by this man that is anything short of killer. Spattered throughout labels, Deesu, Kansu, and Jet Set this man assembled a tasty career of one off's. Funk conessuiers should also peep his slow funk banger 'The Book'. Also, for those looking to follow in the steps of Allen Toussaint's smooth take on soul, Eldridge is a sure bet.

This is another fine artist from the New Orleans area, and there's no doubt that the Meter's graced the recording sessions a time or two. In fact it's more apparent on his earlier recordings, but they are all indeed completely rock solid grooves. But, I truely think this 45 takes the cake. Recorded in 1969 during a brief courting by the Atco label it was one of his last few records that he released.  He resumed a normal life in Louisianna and abandoned a recording and performing career. He never had a hit or entered the charts, but was and still is well loved by soul AND funk enthusiasts world wide. Many, like myself think he was an incredible artist with great potential. Just so happens that a few cats in New Orleans felt the same way. Fortunately they kept pushing him and as a result we have a fine collection of 45 to enjoy. Sadly he passed away at the age of 56 but, saw some long over due credit and respect in the deep funk revival of the 90's. Hats off Mr. Eldridge Holmes, we love what you did and appreciate you big time.
Rest in Peace

Eldridge Holmes - Pop, Popcorn Children

Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell - Baby Don'tcha Worry

This used to be a regular spin of mine. I recently came across this LP for a buck while browsing at a thrift store. Couldn't pass it up and played it out again just like old times. I had the pleasure of spinning with Jason, Jason, and Bill at the Layover at their wonderful night Beatific. Fine East Bay night featuring all styles of music, great diverse crowd, and a decent sound system for a small spot. Not to mention in select spots like this, East Bay underground music appreciation is at an all time high. Love it, all you good EB folks. I don't think this tune followed 'Gangster of Love' by Snoop Dogg very well due to it's 1960's heavy stereo separation mix, but it got love anyway (as it should).

MG and TT as I like to call them, were dynamic together in their soulfulness time and time again. Over and over on every song and LP. At the time they were the King and Queen of pure soul. The recordings are incredible. Production is perfect and stereo separation of the tracks and instruments just makes it that much sweeter. It's that Motor City Magic once again. But, even more amazing are the incredible stories behind their lives. Tammi suffered a horrible bout with brain tumors for most of her life. And, Marvin was riddled and torn with a struggle within himself due to depression and an abusive father. Not only did MG and TT find solace and happiness with each other, but they gave the world a brand of soul music it had never heard before.

This marvelous funky cut is from their classic 'You're All I Need To Get By' LP. A standard text book issue for Soul Appreciation 101A. Do your homework!


Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell - Baby Don'tcha Worry

The Meadows Brothers - I've Tried It All

Wallace, Eugene and Wilson

Slick, super-charged ultra soul brother jam. Steered down slick city streets by guitar and commandeered by back seat drivin' horns. The Meadows Brothers lay on a heavy honey smothered trip drenched in classic stinky soul. Wallace, Eugene and Wilson make up the brotherhood and while they had a speckled and sparse career it was basted nicely with rich soul flavor. Their earliest recording as the Zircons (group name correction thanks to Mel Meadows, son of Wallace Meadows THANKS!) is much in demand and rare and desired on the Northern Soul circuit. They later came with the name 'The Meadows' and soon learned there were other acts that had already chosen the name. They rested for a while with 'The Meadows Brothers' and cut a limited amount of soul gems on Kayvette and deep funk ditties on Hip Spin. Then, another switcheroo. They went back with 'The Meadows' and cut this somewhat elusive LP in 1981 on the Radio label. These are smooth brothers on a Dramatics style tip and this acid drenched mid-tempo burner is just what I need at the moment. It's quite the guitar shredding soulful rocker as well. Thick funk with hard edges and a morality message to boot. It's kinda dark, and a little sad. But, just the kinda charging forward and truthful message we really like.

All hail these lesser knowns. When you close your eyes and dig deep in the soul basket, there's an endless supply of joy in finding great and talented artists like these cats. I've said it once before, and most folks reading this already know... just how deep things can get.... You could collect only L.A. Doo Woo from the 60's and STILL never know every artist that recorded that sound in that area. What a treat that can be. The Meadows are just that treat for me. Tear stained soul, big daddy funk that your parents would jam if they knew about them way back then.


There seems to be a little confusion about another LP released in 1977. But, again asking these questions here is proving little or no response. I suppose I've got to 'up' my soul collecting knowledge before the cats that can answer these questions start really paying us any attention here on this little blog. I tried to find out more about this release in 1977 with no luck. Seems there's also a collection of singles. Maybe one in the same? We'll post more by these fine brothers as we snatch them up. Even though the Meadows Brothers had little or no fame or response it didn't stop them. So, we won't let it get us down, we'll keep pushing on just like them.
You can't say we didn't give it our all. We too have tried it all...
Like they sing....
You can't stop a song in the middle of the show.
True dat, true dat Meadows.

The Meadows Brothers - I've Tried It All

Laura Lee - Crumbs Off The Table

I will never forget the 1st time I copped this LP. I was infantile in my collecting and my understanding of soul and funk records. It's funny for me to remember back then. I was on my way to KALX,  U.C. Berkeley's radio station because I was getting my start in college radio at that same time.
About that time was when I discovered other things like Lyn Collin's 'Think (About It)'.
Thing is, they were both tunes that were decades old but, were experiencing a new birth by being sample by popular rap artists. Rob Base's sampling of Lyn Collins was playing out of every car that summer. EVERY damn car. It was crazy. While D-Nice's treatment of 'Crumbs' by Laura Lee wasn't as widely received it still justified my insatiable fever for getting to the 'roots' of the issue. My grand scheme would be to promote and  illuminate the 'real' artists. Well, over the years not much has changed in my agenda.

Modeled after her LP 'Women's Love Rights' Laura Lee was one of many soul sisters etching new territory for women in R&B and soul. Both with great feeling and depth, yet asserting a new power obtained by gains in the Women's movement. Ann Pebbles, Ann Sexton, and Laura Lee brought raspy rough vocals and tuff 'If You Can Beat me Rockin, You Can Have My Chair' attitudes. She spoke out to people and got personal within peoples relationships. On the curtails of Honey Cone's 'Want Ads' she brought us 'Women's Love Rights'...and in the footsteps of Freda Payne's 'Band Of Gold' she delivered 'Wedlock Is A Padlock'. Her message is basically loud and clear through her song titles. 'Her Picture Matches Mine', 'Love And Liberty', 'Rip Off', and 'I Don't Want Anything Old (But Money)'. The face of soul was changing and sultry soul sisters were changing the game.

Laura tried an impressive set of labels. With early releases on Ric-Tic and Chess, then onto Cotillion and her mainstay Hot Wax. She enjoyed most of her success at Hot Wax with singles 'Women’s Love Rights' and 'Rip Off' reaching the pop and R&B charts. Before her departure from Hot Wax she had a few more singles... 'If I'm Old Enough To Love (I'm Old Enough To Marry), 'Crumbs Off The Table' and the classic 'If You Can Beat Me Rockin' (You Can Have My Chair)'.  But, as amazing and brilliant as they were, they didn't chart as well as her earlier singles.


She laid low in the mid seventies but became active in the gospel genre again in the late seventies and early eighties. Gospel music was her original starting point and after a bout with cancer she devoted herself entirely to gospel music. It was rumored that she had a lengthy romantic relationship with Al Green and in 1983 they collaborated on 'Jesus Is The Light Of My Life' for the Myrrh label.  She also, much like Al Green became an ordained minister and continues to record and perform gospel music.

For me this is one of thee most bad ass sister funk tunes. It's empowering, yet entirely devoted. Wildly busty with incredible production and the breakdown is savage and completely legendary in the funk and soul world. This is top notch stuff here. So glad Laura Lee got her start and brought us to this incredibly funky place.

Laura Lee - Crumbs Off The Table

Mary McCreary - Singing The Blues (Raggae)

The Jezebel LP

I don't think I post that upbeat sound often enough. By 'upbeat' I mean rocksteady, ska, roots rock, lovers rock, dance hall or the like. So, this is something in that vein. But, more of a hippy soul oddity really. Aside from her gorgeousity Mary was just that, a prolific hippy soul chic. She married Leon Russell and put out albums as Leon and Mary. Leon definitely contributed to her branching out and becoming even more experimental as Leon was quite the freak. I don't know the story behind this tune, but it certainly sounds like it was recorded with some of the original Trojan Label records guys.



The 'real' amazing story behind Mary is that besides her hailing from the Bay Area (We love it! - another fine Oakland/SF story!) she was in the amazing Sly Stone side project band Little Sister. She was born in San Francisco and got involved in the gospel music scene. She then recorded with a group called the Heavenly Tones. It was rumored that she was traveling down to L.A. and being courted to perform and record with James Cleveland and various gospel projects. Then she was involved with providing backing vocals for Sly Stone. Little Sister released a few 45's in the early 70's and they are ALL incredible. And, so is her entire catalog. She's been known as Mary Rand, Mary Russell, and Mary McCreary but, make no mistake about it, to name her body of work anything but 'genius' would be a mistake.

The Amazing Mary McCreary

Mary made a huge contribution to many flavors of soul music and was unconstricted by any usual limits. Her soothing and sweet vocal style works well with whatever project she dabbled in. This tune from the Jezebel LP is a fine example. She made her mark on any style she touched. This is an unusual brand of hippy soul meets rocksteady reggae.

Little Sister on Stone Flower Records

We will eventually get around to exposing more of Mary's catalog and definitely want to do a post on the amazing Little Sister.



Mary McCreary - Singing The Blues (Raggae)

Veno - Nigeria Go Survive

Another fine Nigerian boogie track. One that is somewhat classic and quite possibly becoming an anthem in this still evolving afro-boogie genre. While on the road from the last Sam Marris post, it was hard not to lead to this stop. Another dusty, scratchy relic I've acquired from the motherland.
In fact, Nigeria has indeed survived. 2010 was the celebration of Nigeria's 50th year of independence. So, on the local airwaves and in the hearts and minds of Nigerians 'Nigeria Go Survive' has already been an anthem and a theme of hope and pride. Flirting with larger success and crossover appeal this song is sung in both native Nigerian tongue and English. It is often called Pidgin or Broken English but is popular among recording artists for a hipper flare. Nigeria is vast in different dialects but some Hausa, Fulfulde, Yoruba, and Ibibio can be heard in these Nigerian records. Many Nigerian artists in the eighties had come full circle with language and attempted to gain that greater appeal that speaking English provided. Written and produced by Jake Sollo of Osibisa fame, this was a marginal hit for Veno Marioghae in 1985. Released on the small but prominent Tabasi record label, it was also the home to many other African artists including Felix Lebarty, The Esbee Family, and Harry Mosco.


Veno - Nigeria Go Survive

Sam Marris - Are You Gonna Stand There

Special shout out to my man Juanito. Honorary soundboutique member and correspondent. Little known fact, he was and still is a pioneer of bringing the boogie sound to the east bay. Now he's in Africa for his second excursion. Sipping drinks and relaxing in Mali, Burkina Faso & Senegal. He's searching for the African heat, combing the beaches and shores, and making connections with beautiful people. He's notified me that he's been keeping a close watchful eye on soundboutique. He let me know that he loves what we do, and give thanks and respect for the tracks. I gotta thank him as well, for helping keeping a flow of dope African records coming my way. Big up Juanito! We loves you up in here! I gotta make that connection and get that LP for a future post. But, for the time being...here's one for you..please find MORE of these!

Here's another killer sample of Nigerian Boogie. This is one that is entirely carried by this stunning and slick as hell bass line. It's just simple drums, bass, synth and guitar but complex in it's syncopation. Just the right touch of brief bursts of brass. The breakdowns are heavenly, first with the instruments, then into the chorus repeat. Simplistic funk. Genius shit. The only thing lacking would be Sam's minimalistic vocals. Still it works for this track and the entire LP. Which by the way is quite good. Sam more than makes up for lacking in vocals with nice arrangements and writing cunning dance floor winners.

This LP, 'Another Colour' is an all around pretty great LP. I'm finding more and more quality Nigerian boogie LP's. One of those occasion where you thought you were almost done, but then the hunt seems to be just starting to take off. More waves of Nigerian boogie that were heavily influenced by none other than big time pop super star and commercial boogie king...Michael Jackson. Loads and loads of LP's with bow ties, black tuxedos, and red leather zipper jackets is the proof. In this instance Sam Marris is sporting a white suit. Not out right MJ clone, but in that same direction.
Most records from Africa are beat to hell. They often look as though at one time or another they've been used to sweep a hut floor. Or, acted as shingles for a shanty on a rainy night. I don't have any mint African records. Least I've never seen one. Could be they don't exist. I'm fine with that. The dirtier the better. Long as the funk still comes through the wax.



Sam Marris - Are You Gonna Stand There

Act III - Love Power

I am in love with this tune right now. Seriously. Effin' lovin' this shit. There's nothing smoother and funkier to me these days. It's crazy how I get fixed on a tune. If you were around me, you'd probably have to hear this shit several times a day right now.
This is an example of excellence for as late as 1987. Unbelievable to me that this tune is so charismatic of such older styles yet, even with it's heavy late 80's production, complete with Kenny G style sax solo, it's a hot tune. I kinda wished the beginning of the tune would just go on forever. I suppose it would be handy to pull off a re-edit. But, for now the sax solo is intact.
To me, this is what modern soul is all about. We all need a little more 'Love Power' wouldn't you agree? This is one kind of power that rarely gets abused.
I don't have any further info on this group. And, it's a shame. I would really hope someone could chime in with some additional knowledge, because I feel as though I've seen this groups name before. I would really like to know more about them. My guess is L.A. area and probably still kickin' around.


Act III - Love Power

J.P.'s Force - Time To Throw Down

It's right about time. Time to 'Throw Down' some new boogie/modern soul fatness. This JP's Force cut is just what you need. From their rare EP on Sensational Records comes this title cut, and it's a bomb tune. Just a sample that funk can still bump with keyboard slap bass and 1986 was just as funky a year as any. In fact, over the next few posts I'll be adding things from the mid to late eighties. Only to further prove my point. I hope all of you are on board and ready. Because I've been deep into a mid eighties soul and funk binge as of late.
Some of you already know I'm a huge fan, promoter and collector of anything on People's Potential Unlimited. I'm often blogging them up, wearing their gear and spreading news of the latest releases.
It's rare I come across originals that PPU have released, those are usually the tunes that get nabbed up with the quickness and disappear from the web. Or, where never there. I blame it on impeccable taste. The label founder Andrew Morgan puts out quality and excellent material. I've had a long history with this cat, buying from him way back when he was virtually the 'only' cat selling records under boogie, electro, and modern featuring sound clips. That was huge. And, a milestone in introducing many folks to tons of material. Myself included. He's been earth's core deep since I first knew about him. PPU has manifested nothing but pure, raw, uncut goodness and done so with immaculate style and vision. Not to mention a solid penchant for honest dealings.

Back to what I was saying... So, its rare I come across originals that have been released by PPU. This J.P.'s Force was released by PPU on 45 perhaps a few years ago now. When I came across this I had to have the original because I genuinely loved this tune. It's robust funk from 86. The rest of the EP is really good too. It's worth seeking out. I think the flip of the PPU 45 has the other best song from this EP. But, a second pressing of this EP originally released in 1990 is available here and there as well.

Heads up, and mad respect to People's Potential Unlimited, Andrew, and the Earcave site. If you're not aware of this great resource your seriously a nappin and a snoozzin'
Check them out here.
http://earcave.mybisi.com/

J.P.'s Force - Time To Throw Down

Three Ounces Of Love - Give Me Some Feeling

On this third day of the year, I give you the Three Ounces Of Love. I have been bumping this since Thanksgiving last year. I had never heard this LP before that. I was really surprised. I suppose I slept on this one thinking it was another mediocre or run-of-the-mill disco joint. Little did I know what I was missing. These three sisters are incredible. As soon as I heard 'Give Me Some Feeling' I was in heaven. The backing vocals, the soloist, all freakin incredible. And, some sweet arrangements to boot. Known as the Alexander sisters from Detroit, this was the only LP released by Ann, Elaine and Regina. They had two singles released from this LP and both basically bombed and they weren't heard from for ages. This LP was also produced by Brian Holland, of Motown fame, and the 'Ounces' only significant resurfacing was during a Motown tribute.

Ferocious vocal talent here folks. These sisters seriously set this shit on fire. This has been a long awaited and welcomed treat in my stacks lately. For true soul connoisseurs, its a royal treat. This LP is well rounded with excellent production and sultry arrangements for a big label sound. A few folks have had to endure me ranting about these gals everywhere I go lately. Now, you'll see what I'm talking about. This ones gonna be in the DJ bag for a bit.

The real kicker here is, is that this LP has The Suttons all over it. Mike and Brenda Sutton wrote and produced several of these tunes. Including the incredible ballad 'Today Will Soon Be Yesterday' which is nothing short of genius. I can't place who may have re-done this tune and possibly had some major success with it. If you can help on this, it would be much appreciated. I know I've heard it somewhere else...

The main tune here that melts my wig is 'Give Me Some Feeling', also written and produced by my fave Mike and Brenda. But, the LP is overall well rounded and pretty darned tasty. I'm glad I've stumbled across it again and given it a sec to warm up on me. I'm including this song along with a few other stand out cuts on the LP. Fans of more disco-y sounds will want to check this out. I've focused on the slower and funkier tracks, but it'll make disco kids smile too. Fortunately for the Three Ounces they picked more mid-tempo tunes and steered away from a full on disco LP, a trend that was dying in '78 when this was released. That may have given them more life in the biz at the time. That may be why I had originally not noticed it, thinking it was just that..another formula disco outing. Either way, these chicks were not short on talent. It's a shame they didn't record further into the 80's like the Jones Girls for example. They had A LOT or potential and I would have loved to hear what they would have sounded like in 1982.

Once you delve into these sisters and enjoy this fine LP you too will probably want more. I know they started out with some Northern Soul stuff produced by none other than Mr. Popcorn Wylie, but I don't have any of those 45's. I'm not sure anything ever came out on 45 or on the Pameline label, it may be stuff that was unreleased that surfaced later on? Not entirely sure. Again, I would hope those that have more info would share in the comments below. I've heard as well that they had something on IX Chains Records, but again, I don't have it and haven't heard it. Could be fantastic...who knows. But, you'll have to wrestle with me over anything with their name on it at the record swap.

Three Ounces Of Love - Give Me Some Feeling
Three Ounces Of Love - Bet You'll Come Running
Three Ounces Of Love - In The Middle Of The Feeling
Three Ounces Of Love - Today Will Soon Be Yesterday

Jerella Hope - Funk '79

I'm gonna always be a sucker for the funk. I have always been and will continue to be. I'm a hunter for this stuff. The more obscure the better.  Even though this isn't my usual taste, I think its a bomb little 45. Not bad for the second offering of the new year. As we approach our second year anniversary of this blog. I'm hoping to find time and energy to make it blossom even further. We'll see if I'm all talk or not this year, because I'd really like to set new records for the amount of posts. We shall see.

 I couldn't find much about this little one anywhere. I couln't find a pic, not on ebay, not of popsike, not in japan. Doesn't mean it's rare or anything. Maybe even means its not 'such' a hot tune. But, I beg to differ. So, I took me own photo. Here's another, yes another soundboutique exclusive. Jerella Hope's 'Funk '79' Hope you enjoy it.

Jerella Hope - Funk '79

Antonio Carlos E Jocafi - Kabaluere

1-1-11 - Just wanted to say Happy New Year to everybody. It's gonna be a great year. There's lots in store for our little blog in this upcoming year. I've managed to scrape up tasty offerings from both new acquisitions and from foraging through the collection. I purchased some new shelves for the collection and have been surfacing titles I thought were long lost in the depths of the crates. So, good news all around to those faithful to diggin' through these posts. It's gonna get good.

To start the new year off on the right foot, I've got an offering from Brazil by Antonio Carlos E Jocafi. Kabaluere. Something I dug up the other day while sorting through my records looking for some things for my brother. I rarely take the time to dig through my own collection, but when I do it's pretty much like xmas. Anyways, I had to dig through a section I had set aside for some reason and it yielded some treats for this site. Both my brother and my dad had given me records over the years and just recently asked for a few of them back. Nothing that I would be posting up here, but nevertheless always good to fall back on my old rule...I really don't ever get rid of anything. My collection has and always will be inspired by family. My Mom had some incredible records, my Dad too. And, my brother was a humongous influence in my musical tastes, both in passion and expression.

This tune was effectively sample by the Jurassic Five, been comped a few times, and among some of the best stuff in my collection from Brazil. Unlike many of my colleagues, I've never been to Brazil. But, I've done a fair amount of pillaging from a distance. Connected online with several Brazilian collectors and sellers. I've also gone through several periods of getting Brazilian records for pretty stinking cheap from eBay. Those days seem to be long gone, much like finding sealed copies of 'Damn Right I Am Somebody' by the JB's.

So, here's a taste of Antonio Carlos E Jocafi's Kabaluere. Nothing that the 'heads' don't already know about. But, solid nonetheless. A bit of Brazil funk, and the first lesson of world rare groove 101. No prerequisites.


ALSO.....Big shouts to my boys Allen Thayer and Jacob Pena keeping that Brazilian heat bumping in SF at GOSTOSA. Every second Wednesday at the Casanova in the Mission.. 527 Valencia SF, CA

Antonio Carlos E Jocafi - Kabaluere