Leputla Thamahane selected 5 of his favourite records that were released in January 2021
Gari Romalis – Panic In Detroit EP
1st on my list is Detroit’s native, Gari Romalis with his release on the Bristol based label, Just Jack. This EP brings with it soul and warmth if you are a deep house fanatic and are versed in the type of sound you would expect from Detroit, then Panic In Detroit will definitely make sense. For me these are the type of songs to warm up the floor with and get the crowd in the right mood. Absolutely love Final Fronteer (Brian Block Mix) for the claps and hi hats that definitely will have you wanting to dance a bit. Hard Rain on side 2 brings with it smooth drums while the opening track, Panic In Detroit, is the kind of deep house track you will find in my sets.
Beautiful EP from Gari.
JITWAM – Sun After Rain
The Jazz Diaries US brings us these feel good sounds by JITWAM. The whole EP has this outdoor party feel to it, which in these times we are living in, I really appreciate this EP for that. The 1st track by JITWAM, who I will admit I am not familiar with, brings about inspiration with the clean chords graceful drums. The vocals by Mike Bloom on the second track compliment the more warm drums and lavish chords. The remix of the Title track by Kaidi Tatham leaves me with no words. Kaidi’s signature sound of upbeat kicks is always welcomed and on this piece it really compliments the short repeated phrase.
Loose Ends – Hangin On A String
Loose Ends was a successful British R&B band that had several urban contemporary hits. The trio was formed in London in 1980, initially comprising vocalist and guitarist Carl McIntosh, vocalist Jane Eugene, and keyboard player, Steve Nichol.
Hanging on A string was a 1985 hit by this band and this reissue on South Street includes the original extended mix and of course the 2 remixes by the legendary Frankie Knuckles. Classic is the only word I can use to describe this magnificent reissue. Definitely have to be in your collection.
Melba Moore – Just Doing Me
Mirror Ball US treats all disco and quality house lovers with remixes by Terry Hunter of the American Born singer Melba Moore. Dance music through and through on this release. Terry blesses Just Doing Me with that early 80’s horns, guitar and electric piano which allow Moore vocals to shine and really let us enjoy the message of the song. The sound on this EP really takes you back to the old house sound that many can relate with.
Georgie Sweet – Misunderstood
Futuristica Music has had releases by artists like Marc Rapson, Mecca 83, Simon S and Deborah Jordan. When you listen to this debut solo album by Georgie sweet, the quality of these artists mentioned definitely resonates. Georgie presents us with a warm and emotive album. There is something about artist that can sign so effortlessly. It would be unfair if I were to say I have favourite song from this album. Artists like Georgie, who produce this type of music really give one hope for the future of soul music/future RnB.
I love me some head nodding sounds, ACE from me!