Dam Funk "Innafocuseddaze"

The LA based electro G-Funk king is back. This time teaming up with Scion AV for the release of this new EP & to kick-off his October tour. 4 tracks with his signature 80's tinged funk at the core & different levels of experimentation in each touching in techno, rock, soul & jazz. The 10" will be available soon but you can download the EP for free at http://scionav.com/collection/795/Scion-A/V-Presents:-Dam-Funk---InnaFocusedDaze

BUG "Mechanical Soul"

UK producer BUG returns with a pretty hip EP of abstract, sometimes headnoddy, sometimes glitchy electrofunk & hip hop soul.

T.IM.E "Breakthrough" featuring Joy Jones

Having already collaborated on several projects, LA based producer Theimagination and emcee E Reece have officially joined forces and are gearing up for the release of their debut EP  "The T.IM.E. Is Now"  releasing Oct. 11th. To kick it off, they've released the 1st single "The Breakthrough" as a free download. The track features singer (& SOUNDROTATION fav) Joy Jones. A bit of headnod, a bit of grit & a lot of soul.

Quadron "Wounds"

Check out & download this haunting tune from the Danish duo Quadron. "Wounds" is an alternate take of their tune "Simili Life" with a slower pulsating drum beat, dark & haunting synthesized organ & Coco's breathy & crisp vocals and slightly different arrangement of the lyrics.
Quadron - Wounds (Unreleased simili life version) by Plug Research

Robert Mitchell 3io "The Embrace"

At last, Robert Mitchell 3io return with the follow up to their acclaimed debut "The Greater Good" which earned them "Best Jazz Album" at the "Gilles Peterson Worldwide Awards" in 2009. 3io, comprised of pianist Robert Mitchell, bassist Tom Mason and drummer Richard Spaven, continues their journey on "The Embrace" classicly crafting illustrious versions of music & compostions spanning 2 centuries from a wide range of genres including their take on Little Dragon's "Twice", Aphex Twins' "Alberto Balsam", Bheki Msleku's "Cycles",  4hero's "Third Stream" to a classical piece original composed by Robert Schumann. Also includes are glorious original compostions from each member including a slightly more minimally cosmic version of Spaven's "Maz" which he recorded on his solo ep "5ives" that originally had Jose James on vocals. Truly a transcendental piece in its entirety.

Miguel Migs "Outside The Skyline"

Award winning dj/producer Miguel Migs is pushing his sound past the limitations of deep house for which he's become a legend, moving his grooves into much more cosmic-ness with the release of his 3rd album "Outside The Skyline". Still rich in groove, he draws deep from an array of influences bringing more cosmic disco, nujazz & reggae/dub into the fold with a wide range of guest vocalist to assist. Disco/soul diva Evelyn "Champagne" King, reggae legends Freddie Macgregor, Capleton & Half Pint, 1st daughter of Brazil Bebel Gilberto, nujazz vocalist Georg Levin as well as his longtime collaborators Lisa Shaw & Aya. Check it out & pre-order it at the link below.

                             

Jose James: It’s All Over Your Body & Trouble [AllSaints Basement Sessions]

Check out these two videos of Jose James performing new songs from his upcoming album at the Basement Sessions for the UK clothing company ALL SAINTS. The jazzy funky soul is in order with his super velvety tones & killer brass section. Probably his most funky to date. Can’t wait until 2012 arrives to hear the full project.

Mark de Clive Lowe "The Why" featuring Nia Andrews

The first single from producer and keyboard wizard Mark de Clive Lowe‘s new long awaited album Renegades releasing on Tru Thoughts in November. The single is a banging jazzy electrofunk tune and features his longtime collaborator Nia Andrews on vocals and the incomparable Miguel Atwood Ferguson (Suite For Ma Dukes) on string arrangements.

   The Why feat nia andrews by mashibeats

Little Dragon: Brush The Heat [Music Video]

It’s no doubt that the Sweden based group Little Dragon has fastly become the darlings of the indie music and electro soul/pop scene. Since the release of their three albums, they have become one of the most in demand groups playing arenas and major music festivals all over the globe. This week, they released a visually stunning video for their new single “Brush The Heat.” The illustrations were done by famed artist and lead singer Yukimi‘s father, Yusuke Nagano. Of course the visuals have the conspiracy theorist screaming Illuminati. Nevertheless, it’s dope.

DJ Center: Everything In Time Remixed

NYC based producer DJ Center is getting ready to unleash a remix project to his highly acclaimed Everything In Time album from last year that featured Gretchen Parlato, Zaki Ibrahim, Middle Child, Renee Neufville (of Zhane) and more. The remixes are varied styles from the creme de la creme on the global underground scene including Sam Champ, DJ Spinna, J. Rawls, Wajeed (PPP) and many more. Free download of the remixes from Sam Champ & DJ Apple Jac below.

Carolyn Malachi: Beautiful Dreamer [Official Video]

Check out the stunning new video and single from the Grammy nominated DMV based singer Carolyn Malachi. This soul and reggae tinged groove speaks of drifting to that beautiful place when the world outside gets heavy. Very uplifting and beautifully executed. For more info on the single visit her website.

Häzel + Slakah The Beatchild = THIS

When French producer Häzel and Toronto based producer/musician Slakah The Beatchild went into a studio session, this six track instrumental and somewhat loungey and jazzy bommbaptastical affair was born.

Yahzarah "Love Come Save The Day" (Official Video)

I'd like to congratulate Yahzarah on the birth of her first child; a bouncing baby boy she named Miles. In the final tri-mester of her pregnancy, she filmed this beautifully shot video of her tune “Love Come Save The Day.” Filmed on a sandy beach, greenery in all of her happiness and beauty. Check it out!

Thundercat "The Golden Age Of Apocalypse"

Bassist Stephen "Thundercat" Bruner has been blazing a trail on the music scene for a minute having toured & play for the widest range of music industry's elite. He's also a huge factor on the LA & global cosmic & electrosoul scene, being the bassist for several projects of J*Davey, Sa-Ra, Erykah Badu & Flying Lotus. Now, thru Flylo's "Brainfeeder", he has released was is probably the best cosmic funk album of the year. "The Golden Age Of Apocalypse" sees the bassist (also doing vocals) stepping into the forefront bringing a blend that can be described as Jaco Pastorius meets George Duke (in which he did a cover of "For Love I Come) meets Lewis Taylor. Check out the stream below & for all the outlets to purchase it, go to the Brainfeeder website!

Strange Fruit Project "A Dreamer's Journey"

Been a minute since we heard from the Dallas dynamic trio Strange Fruit Project. Now Myone, Myth & super producer Symbolic 1 are back at it. Bringing that neck breaking, soulful & funky hip hop they're known for with their new album "A Dreamer's Journey" releasing September 1st on iTunes. Check out the 5 track sampler.

Goapele "Play"

It's hard to believe that it's been 10 years since Goapele debuted & 6 years since her last album. At long last, the Bay Area based, South African singer is gearing up for the release of her 3rd album "Break Of Dawn" releasing Oct. 25th. The 1st single "Play" sees the singer moving her sound into a more electro-pop territory all the while retaining her soulful sexiness. NuSoul enthusiast don't fret. She still got it. She's gonna flaunt it a little.

   Goapele "Play" by SOUNDROTATION

Robin Hannibal "Bobby"

If you're not familiar with the name Robin Hannibal, you should be familiar with his work. As one half of the groups Quadron and Owusu & Hannibal as well as 1/5 of the group Boom Clap Bachelors, the Danish singer, songwriter, producer has been quite busy. He recently has been in the studio with artist including Raphael Saadiq, Leon Ware, Sa-Ra & new darlings KING. Last year he released this stellar ep "Bobby" that was only available in limited markets overseas. Thanks to the good people at Plug Research, this ep will see it's worldwide release Sept. 6. To celebrate & prepare, the label has put together this stunning podcast of his work, including a couple tracks from the ep, some unreleased joints, & a few from his recent tune with various groups. 

   Robin Hannibal - Plug Research Podcast #12 by Plug Research

Kaidi's 5ive

The next installment in the Jazz Re:Freshed "5ive" series comes from producer, keyboard wizard & broken beat / nujazz pioneer Kaidi Tatham & it is every bit of the killer fusion of jazz, funk & the hint of boogie that has been synonymous with his name since the early days of Goya & his days as core member of Bugz In The Attic. The world wide digital release is Sept. 11 but you can purchase an early download for a limited time below or purchase a physical copy on their website.

KING "Supernatural (MdCL RMX)"

One of my favorite future soul/ broken beat/ house producers of all time remixing my FAVORITE song of the year by the breakout group of 2011. KING + Mark de Clive Lowe = OMG!
  

 
 

Cherri Prince "Just Wondering" (Video)

Riding high on the buzz of her glorious single & video "Misery", UK soul siren "Cherri Prince" return with her second single & video from her upcoming project. This time hooking up with beatmaker Chief for a smooth jazzy soul end of summer ride. The full project is slated for late fall. Until enjoy!

Carlitta Durand "Songs From Carli"

NC based singer Carlitta Durand released a fine collection of 21 old, new, remixes & faves from her vaults including some of the Doug & Patty sessions. This collection features a wide range of grooves from hip hop to electro-pop tinged soul.

Oddisee "Rock Creek Park"

Oddisee is definitely one of the most positively consistent producers in the game & the madness continues with this OMG of a project.  The production is masterful with clever sampling & live instrumentation that brings it all to life making this tribute to D.C.'s famed "Rock Creek Park" a beatastical hip hop affair that leans heavily into jazz funk fusion territory. Get a free download of the only vocal track on the project featuring his fellow Diamond District member yU & order the full project on iTunes!

Theresa Payne "This Love" (produced by Black Spade)

A BANGER of an electrosoul track from the St. Louis underground. Produced by Black Spade, introducing the fresh tones & jazzy harmonies of singer Theresa Payne. Haven't been given any info as to a full project or date. I DEFINITELY wanna hear more.

   Theresa Payne "This Love" (produced by Black Spade) by SOUNDROTATION

Phonte feat. Elzhi "Not Here Anymore (prod. 9th Wonder)"

It seems that hip hop enthusiast prayers have been answered with the release of Phonte aka Tigallo's 1st single from his upcoming album "Charity Starts At Home". "Not Here Anymore" sees Tigallo  returning to where it all began, spitting over a neck breaking beat by his former Little Brother / Justus League compadre 9th Wonder with Elzhi (formerly Slum Village) adding bars. Get the free download here & get ready forthe album releasing 9/27.

Colonel Red "Keep Walkin"

The stellar 3rd album from UK soul man Colonel Red is defines the past, present & future of his music. Bringing his sound back to his organically soulful past together with the experiences of his present with traces of futuristic influence. Lyrically, he is always on point with his messages of freedom, life & relationships. There's also an outstanding appearance from famed poet Ursula Rucker.  Get a free download of the title track below & purchase the full album from Tokyo Dawn's website!

Applejac Presents: Playin' Favorites

After a few peaks, leaks & killer remixes, Apple Jac aka Uncle Shecky has now unleashed hit debut EP. Inspired by his years of crate digging & just being an all around music lover, "Playin' Favorites" sees the producer / dj taking on & putting his modern futuristic jazzy hip hop & soul spin on some of his favorite tunes from past to present enlisting help from some of underground soul's most talented including Carmen Rodgers, Reggie B, Tonya Dyson, Rogiers & more. The cd version will have 2 bonus tracks but you can get the digital as a free download below.

Jazmine Sullivan "Boy Why"

Nice one from Ms. Sullivan with her sultry tones riding a pulsating slow grooves questioning the uncertainty of a relationship. Seemingly about her guy, but one can question if this is her song to the music industry after her sudden unofficial announcement on Twitter earlier this year about leaving the industry. 

Eric Roberson - Picture Perfect ft. Phonte

It has been a busy week for the king of underground soul, merging a deal with Purpose Music Group, (who also has Anthony David & Kindred on their roster), releasing a video for "Summertime Anthem" with Chubb Rock & releasing this awesome new single produced by Aaron Hardin & Slimkat 78 (of Low Budget Crew). Taken from his upcoming album "Mr Nice Guy" releasing Oct. 11th. An affinity for a woman is the order of the day with Phonte (who seems to be everywhere lately) bringing his illustrious emcee flow making this piece of art "Picture Perfect".

   PICTURE PERFECT (FEAT. PHONTE) by BlueErroSoul

J. Mitchell "Love Kills The Demon"

A great 10 track collection from singer J. Mitchell, who's been making quite a name for herself on the LA scene & global underground for years. A blend of acoustic tunes & future hip hop soul including her popular recordings  with Exile & Ta'Raach & The Lovelution.

Nicholas Ryan Gant "Over Us"

After a stellar debut in 2009,  features & songwriting credits on projects of artist including Jesse Boykins III, Fresh Daily, Zo!, Roddy Rod & Mabanua (of Japan), & releasing a couple of free mixtapes, Phoenix born, Brooklyn based singer Nicholas Ryan Gant is gearing up for the release of his 2nd official album. "Promises" is slated to release early fall & will feature production from his longtime friend & fellow Howard alum Muhsinah. Check out the breezy electro-pop tinged 1st single produced by NY producer Phantom Lover, then purchase it on iTunes!

   Nicholas Ryan Gant "Over Us" by SOUNDROTATION

The Beatles - Eleanor Rigby (Ahmed's Cold Remix)

Another killer random joint from producer, musician Ahmed Sirour. This time taking this Beatles classic, adding some more drum programming & organs that almost gives the classic a Zero 7 meets The Police kinda vibe. Check it out & download.

Stimulus & Chris Dave "Full Grown" ft. Bilal & Renee Neufville

A killer collaborative effort between NY dj, emcee Stimulus & internationally known drummer Chris "Daddy" Dave (Robert Glasper, Q-Tip, MeShell NdegeOcello). This is the 1st single from their "mixtape" titled "3rd 1st Impression" releasing Sept. 12th. Jazzy bombap-ness featuring Bilal & Renee Neufville (of Zhane) on the vocal duties. Available as a free download. Enjoy!

Lalah Hathaway "If You Want To"

Lalah Hathaway released her new single this week as a free download when your sign up on her website. It's a nice uptempo jam with a little 2 step & of course, those gorgeous sultry tones. Check it out below.

Trackademicks "Halfway" feat. Phonte & Carlitta Durand

A bouncy & soulful electro-pop party jam from Bay Area producer & Honor Roll crew member Trackademicks & the 2nd single from his highly accalimed album "The Champagne Room". Featuring Phonte & his TFE affiliate, singer Carlitta Durand, this tune is definitely for getting a s 2 step on the floor or crusing with the windows down.

   Trackademicks presents Halfway feat. Phonte & Carlitta Durand by The Honor Roll 

Saturn Never Sleeps "Yesterdays Machine"

After joining forces in 2009 in 2 performances paying tribute to the music & sound of Sun Ra, putting out an EP in 2010 & opening for artist including TV On The Radio, producer King Britt & singer Rucyl has finally released their debut album. "Yesterday's Machine" is a fine piece of experimental cosmic soul with samples, layers & electronics & Rucyl's beautiful & sometimes haunting tones that sits somewhere in between Sade & Liz Fraser (Cocteau Twins). Available on iTunes.

Label Love Vol. 3

Another fantastic & diverse installment in the Label Love series. A great batch of soul, funk, afrobeat, hip hop & beyond plucked from the current & upcoming roster of artist from record labels Stones Throw, Decon, Wah Wah 45, Fat Beats, One Handed Music, Tru Thoughts & Wax Poetic.

Georgia Anne Muldrow "Owed To Mama Rickie"

November will see another stellar full length release from cosmic funk goddess Georgia Anne Muldrow. The songs are inspired by & a tribute to her mother Rickie Byars Beckwith & the 1st single features a guest appearance from Bilal.  Hear snippets as well as pre-order the album for a low price of $6.99 here!!!

Erimaj "Conflict Of A Man"

Last month, NYC jazzy funk unit Erimaj lead by drummer Jamire Williams released a killer new tune. Great modern soul with vintage 60's modal undertones featuring the velvet tones of singer (& SOUNDROTATION fav) Chris Turner. Today sees the release of the stunning visual to accompany the song in the manner of an excellent video directed by singer Tiombe Lockhart. Check it out below & don't forget to cop the single on iTunes.

Shuya Okino "Destiny"

Shuya Okino of Kyoto Jazz Massive return with a groovin' full length album. A great blend of boogie & dancefloor soul that nod towards 70's jazzy soul with a killer list of guest vocalists, N'Dea Davenport, Clara Hill, Navasha Daya,  Pete Simpson & Diviniti. Each guest bring their unique styles on 2 tunes each, 1 cover & 1 original. This project is an awesome follow-up to the stellar "United Legends".

Elephant & Castle "Sweet Someone"

Plug Research is without a doubt the most consistent & tastemaking label in America. Their latest release comes from musician, producer David Reep under the guise Elephant & Castle (which is name for an area in London in which he lived). Interstellar cosmic-ness with lush soundscapes, orchestration & 60's inspired harmonies that can be described as modern day "Pet Sounds". Kind of a Zero 7 meets Brian Wilson kinda vibe.

   01 Sweet Someone feat. Aaron Ferguson (Bonus) by Plug Research

Jack Freeman "Lynnie's World"

Houston's soul prince Jack Freeman with a banger of a new single built summertime headnodding car rides & getting your 2-step on the floor. Nice hiphop soul groove produced by Free & features a sweet verse from MC Yves Saint both from the collective Niceguys. Get the free download below.

Van Hunt "Savage, Sincere Look Of Pleasure"

Grammy winning soul funk master Van Hunt is at it again with another KILLER free download from his upcoming album releasing in Sept. "Savage, Sincere Look Of Pleasure" is a seriously ragefully funker sung with raw emotion. Download NOW!