HEALTHY DOSE OF PSYCH-FUNK

Just stumbled across this amazing record.. I had heard a few tracks from the undisputed truth before (Papa was a Rolling Stone, Ball of Confusion... etc.) and this album is a great representation of what producer Norman Whitfield (better known for his work with the Temptations) coined "psychedelic funk". The single from this record is called "UFOs" and really illustrates what this album is all about but my favorite track is their spaced-out, fuzz-tastic take on Neil Young's "Down by the River"... Check it out below (Highly Recommended).

The Undisputed Truth - Down By The River (Neil Young Cover) by thisisnickreiner

LOS DESTELLOS

A nice little nugget here from Peru's Los Destellos ("The Sparks")

"Cumbia" is a Latin American musical style that originated in Colombia's Caribbean region. Traditional cumbia and its associated dance is considered to be representative mainly of Columbia. Cumbia or "Chicha" originated from the Caribbean coast of eastern Colombia, with folkloric variants in Panama from where it spread gaining particular popularity in Mexico, Argentina, and the Andean region. Cumbia began as a courtship dance practiced among the African slave population during the Spanish colonization of Columbia and was later mixed with European instruments and musical characteristics. This dance was more popular than the salsa in these regions until the early 1980's.

Los Destellos were one of the pioneers of Cumbia Beat music emerging in the late 1960s. This was an experimental take on the cultural dance music which integrated heavy electric guitar and elements of psychedelic rock . The introduction of the fuzzed-out electric guitar revolutionized music in Peru during this time. A great compilation of songs from this era was released by Vampi Soul records and can be found here on vinyl.

This track was my personal favorite from Los Destellos "Constelacion" LP. Hope you enjoy.

Los Destellos - Onsta La Yerbita by thisisnickreiner

ALOE BLACC: KILLS IT

Wow. When I heard this I couldn't believe that it was released this year. Aloe Blacc and the production team over at Truth & Soul Records have co-produced an album that expertly harnesses the warmth and emotion of 60's and 70's soul. Aloe's commentary on the current state of things (joblessness, homelessness, misappropriation of wealth, etc.) is a revitalizing breath of air amongst an ocean of bullshit, over-produced modern "soul". The opening track "I need a dollar" grabs you right away with a Delfonics-esque piano beat. Great lyrics, even better production. This album really gives me hope for the future of soul. Enjoy "I need a dollar" below.

listen: Aloe Blacc "I Need a Dollar" MP3

CASH RULES EVERYTHING AROUND ME

Do yourself a favor and find this album. Whether you're a wu-tang fan or just one for undeniable grooves, this is the "truth" (i heard someone say that once). Check it.

El Michels Affair - C.R.E.A.M. by sopedrada

SUMMER CAMP=GOOD VIBES

From their "Young" EP, Round the Moon is one of my favorite summer jamz of 2010. So authentically 80's it hurts with a melody that you'll be humming for days. Highly recommended.

Listen / Download: Round The Moon mp3

The video was the kicker in my book... one of the best I've seen in years: