Tags: Latin Funk

Review: Black Sugar were a Peruvian Latin funk band who formed in the late 1960s but unfortunately disbanded in 1975, leaving a wealth of musical trace magic behind. One such collection of vestiges now comes in the form of 'Baila', an EP comprising four tracks that were first released as singles between 1971 and 1974, and which takes its namesake from the band's greatest hit. The titular opener lays bare their blitzing blend of Latin funk via brass bellowings and organ solos, while the likes of 'Checan' and 'Too Late' deal in black-market flutes and loose-wristed percussion breaks, perfect for sunning by the shore, or wining in a winding, cobbled street somewhere in the Mediterranean.

Review: This exciting new double-sided 45 from Vampi Soul features two rare and funky dance floor gems from pioneering Colombian artists of the 70s. On one side, Piper Pimienta, who was an early collaborator with Fruko and member of The Latin Brothers, presents 'Pensamiento'' which is a killer Latin funk track from his 1979 album La Fuente that's never been released on a 45 before. Known for his salsa skills and always vibrant live shows, Pimienta's track is a treat for DJs. The flip side showcases Columna de Fuego, a trailblazing group from 1973 known for blending rock with Pacific and Caribbean rhythms. Their track 'Inot' offers a fast-paced delight from their one and only LP.

Review: This long-overdue 7" reissue breathes new life into a rare Latin funk treasure from the golden era of the genre. The A-side, 'Together People (Pamoja Watu),' delivers a fiery blend of James Brown-style grit and Manu Dibango-inspired groove, complete with driving rhythms and infectious energy. On the B-side, 'It's Your Thing' reimagines the Isley Brothers classic as a bold instrumental, packed with Hammond organ flourishes and raw Latin funk swagger. Originally a Bobby Marin studio project featuring Chico Mendoza and members of Ocho, these tracks are essential for DJs and collectors, preserving the spirit of New York's vibrant Latin music scene.

Review: Egle Martin's rare Afro-Latin 7" gem, originally released in 1970, has become a highly coveted record among collectors due to its infectious dancefloor energy. Martin, a multifaceted Argentine artistiactress, dancer, and singeriplayed a pivotal role in promoting Afro-Argentine culture and reclaiming Afro roots in Rio de la Plata. By the time of this recording, she had already achieved widespread acclaim, having performed with legends like Dizzy Gillespie and the Berlin Symphony Orchestra and released an album with renowned composer Astor Piazzolla. Her voice, rich in texture and distinctive in tone, captivates as she sings in Spanish, with an effortless freedom and power in her delivery. In 'El Dombe', Martin's tenderness shines through, offering a heartfelt ode to the rhythm and meaning of the dombe dance. 'Dombe Barilo' takes on a more bold and sweeping energy, with its ritualistic and uplifting message. Roberto Montiel's dynamic arrangements blend soul, funk and Latin American rhythms, all deeply rooted in Afro influences.

Review: This vibrant 1969 release captures the raw energy of Latin soul and funk, a perfect snapshot of Spanish Harlem's musical melting pot. With tight grooves and infectious percussion, the ensemble delivers tracks that feel alive with cultural and rhythmic vitality. Each arrangement draws from the boogaloo era's creativity, blending soulful melodies with sharp, danceable rhythms. This reissue offers a chance to experience a key moment in New York's Latin music history with its unmistakable blend of genres.

Review: Vampi Soul duly remaster one of Ray Perez's most sought-after albums from 1969; this is the second in the Venezuelan salsa dura bandleader's (and group's) eponymous "Los Kenya" two-parter albums series, which tracked Perez and co's turn to purer salsa, after his more storied debut with Los Dementes from 1965 onwards heard more of a fusion of salsa, pachange, boogaloo and psych. An eight track reflection of a band's youthful spirit, marked by an opening "wee!" exclamation and subsequent vibrancy.