
Pick Your Tunes #26
Matt Hughes produces the INTERLUDE / monogamyaudio podcast , a portal for Soul, Funk, Jazz, Disco & Boogie; 100% vinyl, recorded to the highest audio standards. At the centre of Matt’s set-up is the E&S DJR400, the ultimate DJ mixer; for which, Matt runs the Facebook Group connecting over 4,000 audio enthusiasts from across the global. Matt owned & ran the soulfulbeats record label & party in West London, UK, a community of like minded music heads, drawn together by their love of all things soulful.
1. What’s your favorite tune to cruise at night?
Earl Flint – “People Hold On” (Instrumental) (1984)
I’m a massive fan of the Rare Groove legend, Mr. James Philip Mason; he produced this majestic slab of wax in 1984 and this Dub/Instrumental has it all. Drenched in heavy 80’s reverb, at almost eight minutes long (2 minutes longer that the vocal version), this track simply builds and builds. Earl Flint’s vocal hooks are driven forward amongst heavily delayed claps and looping analogue synths hooks. Wait for the huge snare and that baseline money-shot; essential! (just watch your speed)
2. What’s your favorite tune to chill?
Marvin Gaye – “Where Are We Going” (2014)
With access to so much music at our finger tips, we can easily brush over genius, not allowing it the time, space and reverance it truly deserves. With this record, Marvin demonstrates his undeniable credentials and serves up a delightful arrangement that flows like caramel; most people don’t realise how deep he was musically. Add Donald Byrd on horn and what you have have is one hell of a record. Previously unreleased until in 2014, Blue Note and Motown pulled this bad-boy from the vaults. Amazing artwork and production by the Mizell Brothers. Chill brother, chill.
3.What’s your favorite tune for a romantic evening?
Lani Hall – “Love Song” (1972)
A member of Sérgio Mendes & Brasil ’66, Lani Hall has such a sensual tone on this record; it is a crying shame that it ends after 3 minutes (I could easily listen to this all all night long). Produced by her husband, Helb Albert (owner of A&M Records), the track was written by and features the backing vocals of Lesley Duncan. Certainly the stand out track from Lani’s 1972, Sun Down Lady LP. Exquisite soul music.
4. What’s your favorite tune to shake your body down to the ground?
Teodo’r – “Love Message” (1984)
This record never fails to secure a huge reaction and workout from the dance floor. It’s the combination of those near perfect horn stabs, sexy vocals and jazz funk grooves. Mixed in 1984 by George Rodriguez & Hippie Torrales, you can just imagine the likes of Tony Humphries destroying New Jersey’s Zanzibar with this track. Play it loud and the ladies smile; the guys just want to know where they can get a copy!
5. What’s the tune that gives you instant nostalgia?
The Chris Rhodes Band – “Gotta New Lease On Love” (1978)
This is the real sh@t. From the first note you know your are listening to a very special record; I would go as far as saying a near perfect one! Out of Boston, Massachusetts, The Chris Rhodes Band committed very little to vinyl but were active on the scene in the early 70’s. My personal thanks to them for leaving this 7″ as a lasting legacy to their musical greatness. This one takes me back there every time, no mistake.
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