Record Breakin' Music Favorite Releases of 2024

Who says there is no new good music?

This is the sixth year I have put together this list of most of my favorite releases.  This is also my MOST extensive list with 240 releases (music and a few magazines) covering all different genres in music. I say “most” because I always end up leaving a few off. Not on purpose, honestly the release slipped my mind and then I scream “How could I forget about this…or that!”  Nevertheless, music is a big part of my life.  I listen to a ton of music. Some I bought and others have been sent to me. (Now is probably a good time to say THANK YOU to all the labels and artist that have sent me promos. It is MUCH APPRECIATED but does not influence if they made the list or not. Good music is good music.) 

Anyway, if you listen to my weekly radio show Eavesdrop Radio [Fridays on 91.7FM from 6-9PM (EST) www.wkdu.org] that I co-host with lil' dave this list isn't really a surprise. This list is in no particular order but does reflect releases I went back to over and over throughout the year. It's great that so many of these releases came out on vinyl and some even on cassette. I encourage you to click on the artwork to find out more about these projects and support their music.

 I wish you all the best for the New Year and look forward to hearing more amazing music in 2025. I know Record Breakin' Music has some tricks up their sleeves. Thank you to the all the artists on this list and the labels for releasing this music that has been our soundtrack for the past year and years to come!

PEACE & LOVE

DJ Junior

Spirits Rejoice - Spirits Rejoice!

Spirits Rejoice - Spirits Rejoice!

Hailing from various regions of South African, Spirits Rejoice 1978 classic album has been re-released by the steadfast Frederiksberg Records. This album touches on all of my jazz sensibilities. Bouncing from spiritual jazz and straight ahead to funk jazz and fusion. The musicianship that the band and producer Greg Cutler has captured is one that I would put against any of your favorite funk jazz albums of the late 70s. Lord knows there are some heavy hitters from that era. But trust me, the vibes are on point. This record will be getting heavy rotation in my sets and in the crib. Rejoice Indeed!

Ologist - The New Sound of Brasil

Ologist - The New Sound of Brasil

As Spring plays with our emotions here in the NorthEast region of the United States I have found the perfect mix that has me yearning for warmer weather. It’s the homie Ologist carefully crafted The New Sound of Brasil mixtape. Yeah kids, this mixtape is actually released on a cassette tape put out by Thanks For Listening. Anyway, Ologist takes you on a journey of some beautiful sounds from different states in the country of Brasil. What I really appreciate about this mix is it’s not your typical collection of classic and rare tunes that we know and love. Nah, this joint is full of modern Brazilian funk, disco, boogie and house music that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and get you movin’.  Obrigato Ologist on this wonderful mix and sharing your love and expertise of Brazilian music to the masses.

Bruce Phillips - Tomorrow's Dreams

Bruce Phillips - Tomorrow’s Dreams

Tomorrow’s Dreams is the spiritual medicine I didn’t know I needed. I listen to a great deal of jazz but there is something in the way Mr. Phillips has carefully curated this mix to ease the troubles of the world, slow down the hustle and bustle and get us off our screens. When I saw that Thanks For Listening was dropping this limited cassette I knew I had to grab this analog gem. An impressive assortment of jazz that I found meditative and intellectually engaging. Thank you Bruce Phillips for sharing your love for this music that you know I hold dear to my heart. Big up selector! 

Record Breakin' Music Favorite Releases of 2023

Who says there is no new good music?

This is the fifth year I have put together this list of most of my favorite releases.  (I did take time off during the pandemic) This is also my most extensive list with over 235 releases (music and a few magazines) covering all different genres in music. I say “most” because I always end up leaving a few off. Not on purpose, honestly the release slipped my mind and then I scream “How could I forget about this…or that!”  Nevertheless, music is a big part of my life.  I listen to a ton of music. Some I bought and others have been sent to me. (Now is probably a good time to say THANK YOU to all the labels and artist that have sent me promos. It is MUCH APPRECIATED but does not influence if they made the list or not. Good music is good music.) 

Anyway, if you listen to my weekly radio show Eavesdrop Radio [Fridays on 91.7FM from 6-9PM (EST) www.wkdu.org] that I co-host with lil' dave this list isn't really a surprise. This list is in no particular order but does reflect releases I went back to over and over throughout the year. It's great that so many of these releases came out on vinyl and some even on cassette. I encourage you to click on the artwork to find out more about these projects and support their music.

 I wish you all the best for the New Year and look forward to hearing more amazing music in 2024. I know Record Breakin' Music has some tricks up their sleeves. Thank you to the all the artists on this list and the labels for releasing this music that has been our soundtrack for the past year and years to come!

PEACE & LOVE

DJ Junior

Record Breakin' Music Favorite Releases of 2022

Who says there is no new good music?

This is the fourth year I have put together this list of most of my favorite releases.  (I did take time off during the pandemic) This is also my most extensive list with over 250 releases (music and a few magazines) covering all different generes in music. I say “most” because I always end up leaving a few off. Not on purpose, honestly the release slipped my mind and then I scream “How could I forget about this…or that!”  Nevertheless, music is a big part of my life.  I listen to a ton of music. Some I bought and others have been sent to me. (Now is probably a good time to say THANK YOU to all the labels and artist that have sent me promos. It is MUCH APPRECIATED but does not influence if they made the list or not. Good music is good music.) 

Anyway, if you listen to my weekly radio show Eavesdrop Radio [Fridays on 91.7FM from 6-9PM (EST) www.wkdu.org] that I co-host with lil' dave this list isn't really a surprise. This list is in no particular order but does reflect releases I went back to over and over throughout the year. It's great that so many of these releases came out on vinyl and some even on cassette. I encourage you to click on the artwork to find out more about these projects and support their music.

 I wish you all the best for the New Year and look forward to hearing more amazing music in 2023. I know Record Breakin' Music has some tricks up their sleeves. Thank you to the all the artists on this list and the labels for releasing this music that has been our soundtrack for the past year and years to come!

PEACE & LOVE

DJ Junior

Deborah Jordan & K15 - Human

Deborah Jordan & K15 - Human

Someone has been busy during the pandemic. Deborah Jordan has been turning out project after project and they are all fantastic! The latest is a collaboration between her and Kieron Ifill aka K15. Jordan is no slouch when it comes to songwriting and laying down fantastic vocals. Ifill in his own right is a top notch producer that pushes the boundaries of alternative soul and jazz soundscapes. So it really makes sense for them to collaborate on an entire album. They have worked together in the past but they were songs here and there on various Jordan projects. What I appreciate here is this really is a concept album where they are exploring the ideas of humanity and being human. The songwriting, tone, production and vibrations from this partnership have really grasped the ups and down of the human spirit. This album feels like the perfect soundtrack for so many aspects of our lives. Seek this album out and let me know your thoughts. Now if I can just find a reasonably priced copy on vinyl without having to pay a grip for postage my “humanity” would be pleased. See what I did there? 😉 

Milt Ward & Virgo Spectrum - Milt Ward & Virgo Spectrum

Milt Ward & Virgo Spectrum - Milt Ward & Virgo Spectrum

Yo! If you dig spiritual jazz vibes, after reading this review go hunt for this record and purchase it! This rare gem from Milt Ward has been officially reissued by Frederiksberg Records and is already sold out in most shops and we can understand why. This spiritual yet very funky and soulful masterpiece is choc full of tasty grooves to fill your spirits. Milt was a master on the Boston music scene in the 70’s with friend Stanton Davis. Besides the wonderful warmth and vibes of this album is an extensive history of Milt in the liner notes of the album written by Bret Sjerven. Besides Milt’s wizardry, there is a tremendous lineup that includes the great Carlos Garnett on tenor, Bill Pierce on soprano and tenor, Delmar Brown on electric and acoustic piano, Cecil McBee on bass, and Ignacio Mena on percussion! Go find this record and thank me later.

Compass - Compass Rises

Compass - Compass Rises

An obscure group from upstate New York, “Compass Rises” is a beautiful jazz album the group self released in the early 1970s. Bringing together a wonderful combination of horns and lush Fender rhodes this album does a lovely job exploring space between notes in a sophisticated straight ahead manner. The group is made up of saxophonist and bass clarinetist Rick Lawn, keyboardist Joel Chase, bassist Tom Ives (doubling on flugelhorn), and drummer Al Colone. On the LP, percussion duties were shared across the band as well as an conguero, Ken Parmele. Big ups to Frederiksberg Records for the reissue of this gem. Grab it now before it’s gone!

Kyoto Jazz Massive - Message From A New Dawn

Kyoto Jazz Massive - Message From A New Dawn

Has it really been this long? I’m asking because I still play Kyoto Jazz Massive original songs and remixes they have done in my sets. I9 years later, we are getting the second album from KJM (Shuya Okino & Yoshihiro Okino) that has developed into a full band. The album was recorded with Vanessa Freeman on lead vocals, and musicians; Kenichi Ikeda aka ROOT SOUL, Yasushi Fukumori, Takumi Kaneko from cro-magnon, Kaztake Takeuchi from A Hundred Birds, Takashi Nakazato, Tabu Zombie  from SOIL&”PIMP”SESSIONS, Kobantschenko, and last but not least the legend ROY AYERS! I must admit, the wait was worth it. This album incorporates an array of musical styles such as Jazz, House, Boogie, Soul, Broken Beat and even Afro Beat. It’s timing is perfect and I would call a classic like their debut Spirit of the Sun.

I just hope I can get my hand on vinyl when it comes out.  

Moonchild - Starfruit

Moonchild - Starfruit

 This album is beautiful. 

 That’s it. That’s the review. 

In all seriousness, the fifth album Starfruit from the trio Amber Navran, Andris Mattson, and Max Bryk better known as Moonchild was well worth the wait. A cosmic trip of bouncy snyths and melodies will have you in a trance. The trio stays true to their signature sound yet stretches out a bit to test new sounds. It all comes together nicely with important chemistry that this group definitely has after ten years of working together. 

Oh but there’s more! One thing I really appreciate about Moonchild is their commitment to social justice. If you have seen them live then you have witnessed their call to action as they usually partner with a local organization and highlight them during their show. Once again I think they continue to make the right choices. They have collaborated with some incredible black women on Starfruit to make some as they say “goosebump moments” throughout the album. These women included: Lalah Hathaway, Alex Isley, Tank and The Bangas, Rapsody, Ill Camille, Mumu Fresh, Chantae Cann and Josh Johnson. “I was so overjoyed that they were down and I’m obsessed with everything they did!” Amber enthuses. “All too often Black women don’t get the recognition and credit they deserve for their incredible talent and contributions to the music industry, and in every industry, scene and space. Each one of these women has been a huge inspiration to us and we were so honored to get the opportunity to make music with them”. 

In a time of uncertainty, Moonchild delivers with some healing audible treatment for your soul.  

I look forward to getting my hands on vinyl of this gem.

Lance Ferguson - Rare Groove Spectrum Vol. 2

Lance Ferguson - Rare Groove Spectrum Vol. 2

We’ve been following Mr. Ferguson’s work for awhile now and he has constantly delivered time and time again. His latest Rare Groove Spectrum Vol. 2  does not disappoint. If you somehow missed Vol. 1 this is another fantastic compilation of re-works and re-imaginings of classic tracks that us music aficionados love to hear. Again Lance has collaborated with musicians from Melbourne’s The Bamboos and Menagerie, the live instrumentation is killer. is another solid collection of re-works and re-imaginings from songwriter, producer, guitarist & DJ Lance Ferguson. Encompassing a broad and engaging range of classic tracks, traversing jazz funk rarities, balearic digs, latin groovers and more. Backed by a stellar group of Melbourne musicians counting members of The Bamboos & Menagerie, Lance continues the tradition of creating “live re-edits' ' demonstrated on the initial volume. It’s all pulled off with an inimitable style and playfulness, though always with an obvious love for the foundations.

If you like music like us TRUST ME, go get this collection and Vol. 1 as well. I’ve been wearing both out on Eavesdrop Radio. I just hope I can find a copy on vinyl here in the states.

Sean Khan - Supreme Love: A Journey Through Coltrane

Sean Khan - Supreme Love: A Journey Through Coltrane

If you are new to Sean Khan this album is a wonderful reintroduction. Not many artists can take the work of a genius and make it their own and really uplift the music. I believe Sean has done just that to John Coltrane’s work on Supreme Love: A Journey Through Coltrane. A pioneer musician that I first became familiar with during the broken beat movement. Sean has worked with Bugz in the Attic, 4hero, Omar among others. Khan enlisted the input of two old friends, Kaidi Tatham and Daz-I-Kue who also contributed to the project. Also featured on the album are UK jazz legends Peter King (saxophone) and Jim Mullen (guitar). Sadly, Peter King’s contribution to “Supreme Love” would be his last recording session, and he passed away in August 2020. Another important addition to the project is Heidi Vogel who adds her distinctive, soulful voice to Coltrane and Khan’s lyrics.

“I have always been a strange prisoner to my ambition” says Sedan “and most of my recordings bear testimony to this, with record being the next part of that evolution. I made a conscious effort to represent all of Coltrane’s main artistic periods from hard bop (with Miles Davis), to sheets of sound (Giant Steps, Moments Notice), spiritual jazz (Love Supreme) and finally his last, most experimental and cosmic period (Intersteller Space). I have never heard a record that attempts to reflect all of the great man’s epochs in this way and use the recording artist’s autobiography (my own) as a conduit to these ends, and so here I am, for better or for worse.”

I can’t say enough good things about this album. A wonderful tribute to Coltrane that has and will continue to receive heavy rotation for years to come.

Ill Considered - Liminal Space

Ill Considered - Liminal Space

Talk about a strong work ethic, Ill Considered have self-released nine albums between 2017-2019. This UK based group have made quite a name for themselves on the jazz scene. Their new album Liminal Space is out via the New Soil label. 

With the move to releasing with a label came a new lineup Idris Rahman (saxophone), Liran Donin (bass) and Emre Ramazanoglu (drums). This album is rounded out with collaborations with Tamar Osborn, saxophonist Ahnanse, tuba player Theon Cross and percussionist Sarathy Korwar.

Even know there is new names throughout the album the flow does not disappoint. The cosmic spiritual vibes you expect from Ill Considered is still relevant and shines. I would say though the improvisation they are known for during their live shows are a bit restricted in the confines of a studio session. 

Previous singles released so far include debut single 'Loosed' which finds the band trading Fela Kuti-esque sax and cosmic jazz flutes over the funkiest of grooves and 'The Lurch', driven by the rhythmic brass blast of multiple horn players, 'The Lurch' builds from its minimalist beginnings to an apogee of righteously fiery saxophones. New single, 'Dervish', out November 3rd, propelled by Idris Rahman’s powerful saxophone salvos 'Dervish' finds a heady meeting point between jazz expression and rock ballast.

Far from taming the untethered improvisation of the group’s live shows - which have garnered them a cult following and sold out every one of their nine records along the way - Liminal Space represents an expansion in scope, framing their intuitive approach to performance within the structure and arrangements of the studio environment.

For a group that breathes like a single organism in sound, inviting new energy into the recording process has resulted in what Emre Ramazanoglu describes as “a rebirth of the band in the image of what came before.”

The Filthy Six - SoHo Filth (EP)

The Filthy Six - SoHo Filth (EP)

Flashback to 20 years ago when the Acid Jazz releases where coming out left and right. I must say, that style of music really struck a chord with me and one I continue to play to this day. Well, The Filfthy Six formed during this special time in Soho London. You name the underground venue back them and they played it. Not only did they play, they smashed their performance. 

Fast forward 20 years later and many releases since then they have decided to go back to their origins and record in a Soho basement. This new EP Soho Filth was recorded live at the Dean St Studios. The musicianship is still strong! My favorite track is the Cannonball Adderley-inspired “Mr. Shmingle Bangle”, featuring renowned percussionist/DJ Snowboy on congas. This EP displays their fluid movements between, funk jazz, acid jazz and boogaloo. Looking forward to more filth in the near future. 

The Daptone Super Soul Revue LIVE at the Apollo

Daptone Super Soul Revue – Live At The Apollo

YO!!!!!! This is what a soul revue is supposed to sound like.

Daptone Records has consistently released amazing music. This release is no different but a special one indeed. A true show, Live at the famous Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY over three SOLD OUT nights December 4 - 6, 2014. 
Blinky Griptite is the MC for the evening and the music is amazing. If you have ever been to a Daptone artist show then you know what we mean. Yet, having all of them on one release, HOLD ON cause this one is special. The stylings consist of Sharon Jones and Charles Bradley – plus more by Budos Band, Antibalas, Menahan Street Band, Como Mamas, Sugarman 3, Saun & Starr, and Naomi Shelton & The Gospel Queens – then everybody comes together to perform a version of "Family Affair" at the end!

Definitely grab this one.

Scrimshire - Nothing Feels Like Everything

Scrimshire - Nothing Feels Like Everything

Adam Scrimshire has been busy during the last few years. Turning out album after album and top quality to boot! This being his sixth studio album is no slump. 

“So many of us head back out into the world post-lockdown, with a different perspective on the overpowering nature of it.

Nothing Feels Like Everything, looks deeply at how the absence of something can be just as overwhelming, whether the absence of physical contact, the absence of love, the absence of empathy and respect.”

This album is delicate yet approachable and completely makes sense as we ease out of a pandemic. I find myself mixed with emotions on this album. It truly does feel like a soundtrack to my current state of mind. Offering me a sense of calm and healing as well as encouragement and hope. Thank you Adam.

It was a pleasant surprise to hear legends Cleveland Watkiss and Ursula Rucker bless the album. Yet in true Scrinshire collaboration there are an array of talented artist we have seen him work with before. Some are actually friends of ours and others we are just learning of their talents. They include; Miryam Solomon, Faye Houston, Jessica Lauren, Emanative, Chris Boot, Bev Lee Harling, Frank Moon, Huw Marc Bennett, Pie Eye Collective, Idris Rahman, Daudi Matsiko, Vince Vela and Philip Harper.

"Throughout lockdown I've been writing so much, and when I released Believers Vol. 1 back in November, I'd wanted to bring people something that captured the warmth and hopefulness I think we needed in spite of deep political and cultural turmoil. But there were obviously very low moments, socially and personally and I was capturing those too. This album holds more of those times of loss and being lost, of solitary contemplation and meditation, of yearning, of anxiety. More than I've experienced before, the collaborations came through long and beautiful phone conversations, developing friendships with new people, rekindling and supporting older relationships, taking time and giving each other time, care and space to create. It's what makes this album special to me."

Thank you for this offering Adam.

Orquesta Akokan - 16 Rayos

Orquesta Akokan - 16 Rayos 

Powerful vibes of Latin Jazz. Orquesta Akokan is a contemporary group but for this album recorded in Havana’s legendary Egrem Studios. Bridging that studio’s history of descarga into a contemporary flow is captured on 16 Rayos. An effortless mixture of wonderful jazzy scoundscapes on saxophone and trump accompanied by lush percussion, bass and piano. Little hints of vocals here and there but mainly an instrumental offering. A nice addition to Daptone catalogue.

Badbadnotgood - Talk Memory

Badbadnotgood - Talk Memory

We would label this record as a bit left of center from Badbadnotgood – and that is a good thing. The group continues to mature and explore new directions in jazz and funk elements. A beautiful soundscape is presented here with lovely arrangements and a colorful sense of sonic bliss. It also doesn’t hurt that they included special guest; Karriem Riggins, Laraaji, Terrace Martin and Brandee Younger. Not to be outdone, the real treat is five songs featuring the legendary Brazilian artist Arthur Verocai. A nice balance to the group’s growth and direction on this album.  

STR4TA (Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick) - Aspects

STR4TA (Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick) - Aspects

Literally one of our favorite albums of the year thus far. A brilliant funk jazz album reminiscent of the 80s by served up by Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick, of Incognito fame. Just like many other Bluey productions there is an infectious soulful groove. This album is lean, with live drums, heavy basslines, and plenty of sweet keyboards too – all with a stark quality that's a lot like the best sounds of the post-disco years, when groups like this were taking things back to basics. Bluey always has a talented cast and this is no different including Ski Oakenfull, Peter Hinds, and Matt Cooper on keyboards. Grab this one now. The first pressing went so fast that they had to do a repress. Thanks to Gilles Peterson for putting out this release.

My only question is where did the name STR4TA come from?