Tracklist:

A1 Calender – Hypertension (Hotmood Edit) 06:05
A2 Calender – Hypertension (Original) 05:50
B1 Calender – Ritmo Latino (Voodoocuts Rework) 05:51
B2 Calender – Ritmo Latino (Original) 05:12

Description

Matasuna Records presents another treat with its latest release: an official reissue with two songs of the US funk band “Calender”. Both tracks are available on a 12″ Maxi-Single for the first time. In addition to the mastered original versions, this EP features great reworks by two of our favorite producers: Mexican disco edit king “Hotmood” and the highly acclaimed Matasuna artist “Voodoocuts”.

The opener “Hypertension” is a disco banger par excellence. Kyser’s sophisticated arrangements merge thrilling grooves, elegant strings, varied funk elements and soulful vocals to a great and unique joint for every dancefloor. It’s very pleasing that the song doesn’t get overloaded or cheesy, as it’s often the case in disco music.
Hotmood transfers the track, which was created more than 3 decades ago, into the present time. His great disco edit focuses on the instrumental parts of the original. Thanks to his clever arrangement, a tension curve is constantly built up without seeming repetitive.

On the flipside, “Ritmo Latino” takes a different musical direction. As the name suggests, there are all kinds of Latin American influences to be heard: the brass section, rhythm parts, piano sounds and the grooving bass line, which goes straight into the veins. Nevertheless, the song is also strongly rooted in funk & jazz and inspires its listeners with its unique character.
Voodoocuts rework comes up with a monster broken beat and gives the song a dancefloor friendly structure with its new arrangement. Especially the killer break part in the middle of the song will not only make B-Boy hearts beat faster! Additional instruments, samples and effects give the rework an individual and autark touch and prove once again impressively that Voodoocuts is setting the bar higher and higher with his productions. 

Artist info

The band “Calender” from New Jersey was founded in the 70s by Paul Kyser. Besides his activities as songwriter, arranger and producer he set up his label Pi Kappa Records. The band’s only album “It’s a Monster” was released on this label in 1976 and has grown into a legendary status over the years and is appreciated by fans and collectors alike.

Tracklist:

A1 Mr. Bird – Dance Away (feat. Chief Commander Yaaba) 04:26
A2 Mr. Bird – The Sasquatch 04:33
B1 Mr. Bird – Floating Funk 04:33
B2 Mr. Bird – Carnival Beat 03:16

Description

Hailing from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, Steve Bird AKA Mr. Bird is the latest artist to land at Matasuna Records’ nest, hatching an exotic and fiery EP.

Starting on a mid flight ambience, before charging to catch its funky prey, Dance Away, the opening track, is a scorching collaboration with Chief Commander Yaaba, one of the lead singers of London based combo Yaaba Funk. Undeniably catchy bass line, afro horns blended with a string of unexpected beat variations, Dance Away is a call to the dancefloor, a celebratory ground to let loose, where mothers and sisters alike are beckoned to shine to the positive tune.

The Sasquatch, in turn, takes us into deeper, different coordinates. A constant, relentless beat foundation spiked with stabs of funky phrasing hooking the listener from its inception, regardless of language, in an almost hypnotic mantra of soulful discourse, this banger is assuredly one for the clubs.

Up-tempo, with a finely tuned built up, Floating Funk teases the less attentive ear into believing this is a simple beat statement but Mr. Bird slams and surprises with an irresistible bassline, perfectly balanced doses of guitar and a hovering – or floating! – horn section interlaced with a rhythmically proficient cowbell and cymbal section.

Angolan-minded breakbeat rhythm, kalimba grooves and funk-based keys and guitar, Carnival Beat is a contagious track. An expertly cooked platter of hot and spicy flavours served in a dish of well mixed groove which will drive any listener to get down and grind away with a smile, in what is also a true homage by Mr. Bird to his well-earned Lisbon heritage – his habitat for the past 9 years.

One can only wonder where Matasuna’s next flight might be headed as each release soars ever higher, towards certified dancefloor bliss.

Tracklist:

A1 Voodoocuts – Kelja 07:31
A2 Voodoocuts – The Tortoise Loop 02:56
B1 SoulBrigada – Hustleman 05:14
B2 SoulBrigada – Madera 04:07

Description

Voodoocuts kicks off the A-Side with Kelja, a raw 70s afro-funk bomb from the Ivory Coast. The American-funk inspired tune features a funky bassline & killer organ vibe, mingled with a dirty, raw saxophone line and James Brown influenced vocals. Voodoocuts’ rework turns the track into a serious dancefloor banger! In The Tortoise Loop Voodoocuts blends an infectious groove with pounding drum breaks and hypnotic vocals. A hot afro-latin joint not to be missed!

On the flip SoulBrigada takes things to a disco tip. Hustleman is a stunning afrofunk & disco gem from West Africa. The second track Madera is an afro-disco gem with a compelling Cape Verdean groove. SoulBrigada rearranged the tracks, added drums, samples and effects building a bridge between past and present – without ever losing its original organic vibe. Two essential tunes for your record bag!