New Digs | May 2013

Bell Biv Devoe - Poison (MCA, 1990) 12"
A seminal song in the development of a young music lover (and lady lover). This song pretty much taught me how I was supposed to interact with women. A bit puzzling that the radio edit isn't included, instead an extended mix, the extended instrumental and a surprisingly enjoyable "R&B Mix" in which the main vocal track has been removed and the backing vocals brought to the front. It's a captivating beat heavy version of the song and prominently features one of the song's most under appreciated lyrics, a Sidebottom favorite, "Never trust a big butt and a smile".
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The Gramacks - Wooy Midebar (Scramble, 1977)
One of those covers that sends my funk imagination into overdrive. In reality, I have found a highly enjoyable upbeat fusion of calypso, reggae and funk.
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The Wailers - Burnin' (Island, 1973)
I have never been a big follower of Bob Marley or his many disciples, but as I broaden my search for new sounds and start to dip my toes into the waters of reggae this seemed like an important record that could provide a good base.
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Ruby Jones- S/T (Curtom, 1971)
Ruby takes command of your record player on this one. Imagine Janis Joplin, meets Curtis Mayfield, meets Buddy Miles. Loud horn-filled soul-rock burners.
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Kraftwerk - Radio-Activity (Capitol, 1975)
Experiments in early minimal electronic music. This is not "everyday" music for me, however it is interesting to see the building blocks of electronica on full display.
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Ann Peebles - If This Is Heaven (Hi, 1977)
Big time fan of Ann Peebles' brand of raw and intense soul. There is a tinge of disco in some tracks, but for the most part the famous Willie Mitchell sound remains untarnished.
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Bohannon - Summertime Groove (Mercury, 1978)
I'm not sure if I'm sold on Bohannon's unique take on soul and disco, but it may also be just the type of restrained deliberate dance music that takes a few listens to fully appreciate.
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James Brown - Bodyheat (Polydor, 1976)
Me personally, I don't ask questions when I find one of the lesser renowned JB albums missing from my collection. A long way from his peak of groundbreaking funk and soul, James still brings the heat to get you out your seat!
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Larry Coryell - Spaces (Vanguard, 1970)
Another artist that I continue to fill any gaps I that have in his catalogue. The title track and opener starts things off strong, but the rest falls into a pretty intense noodle-fest.
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Bobby Hutcherson - San Francisco (Blue Note, 1970)
I've been turning over rocks trying to find this one for a few years. Took a trip to San Francisco to finally secure it.
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Cory Cutup