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Timmy Thomas and 'Why Can't We Live Together' (1972): A Musical Plea for Unity

In the landscape of music history, there are songs that serve as anthems for their time, resonating deeply with the social and cultural pulse of an era. One such timeless gem is Timmy Thomas's "Why Can't We Live Together," released in 1972. The lyrics, so simple yet profound, echo a universal question: "Why can't we live together?" A Musical Plea for Unity Timmy Thomas, with his soulful voice and minimalist instrumentation, posed a question that transcends time and space. "Tell me why? Tell me why? Tell me why?" he implored, his words echoing in our minds like a plaintive cry for understanding. "Why can't we live together?" Ideas for a Harmonious World As an open-minded thinker and music researcher, I can't help but ponder the relevance of this question today. In a world often marked by division, conflict, and polarization, the simple plea put forth by Timmy Thomas holds the promise of a more harmonious future. What if, instea

The Gap Band's "Early in the Morning" Video: A Brilliant 1982 Performance

In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of funk and R&B, one name that truly stands out is The Gap Band . With their infectious grooves and unmistakable style, they've solidified their place in music history.  One of their most iconic moments came in 1982 when they released the video for their hit song "Early in the Morning." This performance video not only showcased their musical prowess but also highlighted their incredible commitment and investment in their craft. Costumes that Defined an Era The first thing that strikes you about the "Early in the Morning" video is the band's choice of costumes. Dressed in flamboyant, shimmering outfits, The Gap Band transported viewers straight into the heart of the 1980s. The fashion of the time was all about being bold, sequins, and striking accessories, and The Gap Band embraced it wholeheartedly. Their costumes weren't just clothing; they were an integral part of their stage presence, helping to create a vis

Atmosfear's 'Dancing In Outer Space' (1979): Cosmic Funk at Its Finest

In the vibrant landscape of 1970s funk and disco, few records have left as indelible a mark as Atmosfear's "Dancing In Outer Space." This classic cosmic British dazz 12" originally graced the airwaves in 1979, released on the band's Elite label. Atmosfear, a quintet hailing from North London, would go on to become legendary for their unique blend of disco, jazz, and funk, pushing sonic boundaries until the mid-80s. The Cosmic Groove Atmosfear's "Dancing In Outer Space" opens with an otherworldly allure, setting the stage for an auditory journey that is nothing short of captivating. The track instantly transports listeners to a cosmic dance floor, where boundaries blur, and inhibitions are left behind. The synergy of spacey synths, infectious baselines, and hypnotic rhythms creates an atmosphere that's simply irresistible. A Dancefloor Smash Released as their debut single, "Dancing In Outer Space" didn't just make waves; it became a

Recoed Review - Hot Pepper - Canción Ritual,1978

As an eternal crate digger, it is a pleasure and a privilege to delve into the forgotten gems of the past, and one such gem that has resurfaced on my radar is the EP "Hot Pepper - Canción Ritual" from 1978. In the annals of music history, this EP stands as a testament to the extraordinary talents of José de Jesús Muñoz, famously known as "El Tilico," a Mexican musician and former drummer who once shared the stage with none other than the legendary José José.  Muñoz, the creative force behind "Hot Pepper - Canción Ritual," not only lent his remarkable drumming skills but also graced the EP as the author of its lyrics and music. This EP, with its original 1978 pressing, is a rare and exquisite artefact of its time, resonating with the essence of disco's golden era. You can still pick the record up online, and it is quite a thing.  Spanglish Movement with a Fiery Groove Containing a total of four tracks as follows :  Deja Que El Mundo Sea Feliz Otra Vez (

Kirtan Turiya Sings (Visualizer) - A Divine Journey in Sound and Vision

Alice Coltrane's legendary album "Turiya Sings," recorded during a marathon fifteen-hour session in 1981, holds a mythical status in her catalogue. Initially released in 1982 on privately-pressed cassette for her Vedantic Center's students, this masterpiece remained largely hidden from the world, circulating only on bootleg cassettes. The 2017 Luaka Bop compilation of Coltrane’s ecstatic music notably excluded any tracks from "Turiya Sings". Now let us leap forward a little and have enter Justin French, who has breathed new visual life into these enigmatic recordings, adding a me-dative additional dimension that amplifies the power of this music as it massages your mind through the screen. With the re-release of "Kirtan: Turiya Sings" as a (Visualizer), we are not only treated to the sonic brilliance of Alice Coltrane but also to a visual narrative that enhances the experience, making it an ideal companion for meditation. These recordings, discov

Sister Gwen McKay - Vegetable Items - Prank call Sydney 2GB

It's hard to know exactly what is going on in this call from Sister Gwen McKay to the Sydney based 2GB Radio station. Everytime I listen it does make me smile. Have a go yourself and tell us what you think it is. Here are some of my conclusions.  The caller starts with three vegetables, each costing 45 cents. So, the total cost for these three vegetables is $1.35 (3 items x $0.45). Then, the caller purchases four more items, each costing $3. This means that the total cost of these four items is $12 (4 items x $3). The combined cost of the vegetables ($1.35) and the four other items ($12) is $13.35. The phrase "you have to get back home to check the money that changed hands" might imply that the caller wants to ensure that the amount of money spent ($13.35) matches the items purchased. In this scenario, the conundrum seems to revolve around the discrepancy between the cost of the three vegetables and the cost of the four other items, resulting in a total expenditure of $13

New Waver - Chadstone

Aksak Maboul - A Modern Lesson (1980)

Get ready for a vinyl revival! The latest release is a vinyl reissue that's been meticulously remastered from original analog tapes.  But that's not all! They are bringing you a 24-page booklet packed with fascinating notes and documents, all in a neat 25x25cm package. And guess what? Their is also a special treat hidden inside - a CD titled "Before and After Bandits" with never-before-heard live and demo recordings. That's right, a piece of audio gold for you. With recordings spanning from 1977 to 1980, featuring 17 different band members and guests. But here's the catch: the lavish booklet is exclusive to the vinyl LP, so you won't find it sold separately. Don't miss out on this unique collector's item! Plus, when you grab your copy, you'll also enjoy unlimited streaming of "Un peu de l'âme des bandits" through the Bandcamp app and high-quality downloads in MP3 and FLAC formats. Get grooving with Aksak Maboul's timeless tune

Janko Nilovic - Roses And Revolvers (1970)

Janko Nilović, born on May 20, 1941, is a prolific musician and composer of Montenegrin and Greek heritage who has called France home since 1960. His diverse talents span classical, jazz, funk, pop, psychedelia, and easy listening. Biography Hailing from Istanbul, Nilović began as a child prodigy, mastering piano, oboe, and percussion. In the late 1950s, he founded his own rock and roll band. Moving to Paris in 1960, he showcased his skills in nightclubs and later joined Les Doussis, a trio of Greek musicians. Their recordings with Barclay Records marked the start of his career as an arranger and orchestrator for pop artists and TV shows. In 1967, Nilović co-established Ju Ju Records with singer Davy Jones, creating a series of singles. His unique arrangements caught the attention of André Farry, founder of library music label Éditions Montparnasse 2000 (MP 2000), leading to the release of influential LPs like "Psyc Impressions." His work extended to various projects, pseudon

Osamu Kitajima Masterless Samurai

Labeling Osamu Kitajima's music with a specific genre is a task that defies convention. "Masterless Samurai" marks yet another compelling chapter in Kitajima's ever-evolving musical journey. It's an extraordinary fusion of Jazz Fusion and traditional Japanese melodies that stands in a league of its own. This remarkable effort by Kitajima is truly one-of-a-kind, with no comparable albums in sight. His profound expertise in traditional Japanese music, coupled with a deep-seated passion for Progressive Rock and Jazz, gives "Masterless Samurai" its unique flavor, solidifying its status as a remarkable Fusion masterpiece and yet another pinnacle in his illustrious career. Kitajima's decision to bid farewell to Space Rock elements and venture into the realms of World and Ethno music foreshadows the captivating direction he is taking.

Review: Michael Galasso - Baroque (1992)

In a musical landscape where the most exquisite gems often hide away from the mainstream platforms like Spotify, I've embarked on a journey to unearth and share these hidden treasures. Today, I bring you Michael Galasso's "Baroque" from 1992, a piece that's both a testament to its time and an enchanting departure from the ordinary. The Greatest Opening Sequence Ever As soon as you press play on "Baroque," you're immediately met with an aura of sophistication and mystery. It's an introduction that stands tall among the greatest opening sequences in the realm of music. This piece doesn't just invite you in; it transports you to another world entirely. A Sonic Masterpiece for the Senses "Baroque" by Michael Galasso is an extraordinary composition, quite unlike anything you've heard before. It possesses a rare quality that effortlessly paints the opening scene of "Chungking Express" with haunting beauty. The atmosphere it

Walking on Sunshine '82 (feat. Donnie Calvin) - Rockers revenge

Let's take a moment to celebrate the pure joy that the song "Walking on Sunshine '82" brings into our lives! This incredible track, featuring the talented Donnie Calvin, is a vibrant explosion of happiness that instantly lifts our spirits and gets us dancing. From the very first notes, you can't help but be swept away by the infectious energy and infectious melody. The upbeat tempo, catchy lyrics, and irresistible rhythm create an atmosphere of pure bliss that is impossible to resist. "Walking on Sunshine '82" reminds us of those carefree moments when the world feels like our own personal paradise. It's a song that encapsulates the feeling of pure happiness, where worries are left behind, and we're free to revel in the sheer joy of life. So, let's turn up the volume and let the music wash over us like a wave of positivity. Let's embrace the contagious enthusiasm of this incredible tune and allow it to fill our hearts with warmth and r

Mighty Mo & The Winchester Seven - The Next Message

Review: Nicky Thomas - "Is It Because I'm Black?"

There are songs that merely entertain, and then there are songs that leave an indelible mark on your soul. Nicky Thomas's "Is It Because I'm Black?" falls firmly into the latter category, delivering an incredibly powerful musical experience that resonates deeply with the heart and conscience. A Profound and Moving Piece "Is It Because I'm Black?" transcends yet still stands now. From the moment the lyrics begin to sink in, washed with feelin from the heart. It's abundantly clear that you're in the presence of something extraordinary. This is not just a song; it's a soul-stirring journey through the human experience. A Genuine Performance Nicky Thomas's vocal delivery, sings, with emotion etched into each and every note, it is a testament to his profound connection. I cannot help feel he is not merely performing but bearing his soul for all to see. This authenticity adds a layer of raw intensity to the song that's truly captivating. Mu

Faze-O - Riding High who has sampled them?

Riding High marked the debut album of the Dayton, Ohio funk ensemble Faze-O in 1977, masterfully produced by the Ohio Players. Their journey began with a BANG, and never stopped not only did they chart in 1978 with the R&B hit "Riding High, but so did so many other decades after with their sampling of the song. This truly makes this track as legendary as it has an enduring influence on the world of hip-hop and R&B here are some who sampled. A Testament to Timeless Music: "Riding High" has been a source of inspiration for numerous hip-hop and R&B acts from the late 1980s onwards. It all started with Fresh Four's "Wishing on a Star" in 1989, produced by The High & Mighty, proving that Faze-O's music is a wellspring of creativity. "Riding High" has been the source of inspiration for many, have sampled the creamy goodness here is a list of some of those who too some cream from the cookie. EPMD - Unfinished Business (1989): Faze-O&#

Discovering hidden melodic Treasures of Davao: Vinyl Record Shopping in the Philippines

I just came back from a trip to the Philippines and Davao, and I wanted to write something for music enthusiasts and vinyl junkies!  If you're in Davao, Philippines, and find yourself craving some sweet tunes on vintage vinyl, then you could be in for a treat. When you search on Google, you'll come across a couple of well-known spots, such as Taurus Records and Vintage Collectibles Music Shop, as well as Agila Audio. These places aren't just your typical stores; they're homes of passionate individuals who breathe music. But wait, there's more! Beyond the digital realm, hidden away from official listings, lies a secret gem that's worth seeking out. It's the quaint shop owned by a remarkable 70+ year old lady named Eva. Nestled at 16 Libra Street in Talomo, Davao, her store might not show up in your online search, but, it's a curious little haven for vinyl enthusiasts and the odd bargain. Eva's collection boasts a wide range of old records, primarily