FF006 LEGENDS OF LIBRARY - BRIAN BENNETT

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?bcy6bw4qjy425qm

Track 1 - Grand Funk
Track 2 - The Unknown
Track 3 - Getting It
Track 4 - Disco Fever
Track 5 - Ergon
Track 6 - In Motion
Track 7 - Proud Industries
Track 8 - Nuplex
Track 9 - Holy Mackerel!
Track 10 - Aim High
Track 11 - It's A Crazy World
Track 12 - Thug
Track 13 - Name Of The Game
Track 14 - Chain Reaction
Track 15 - Tricycle

The Legends Of Library journey continues today with Brian Bennett OBE put under the spotlight. Like many of his fellow composers Bennett was not only an excellent arranger but also an accomplished musician having played drums in The Velvets, Marty Wilde's Wildcats, The Krew Kats and most notably The Shadows. Of course it is wrong of me to speak of him in the past tense because even to this day he continues to produce award winning scores, mostly for television. His collaborations with Alan Hawkshaw bore much fruit with library records such as "Music Machine", "Drama Montage" and "Synthesis" filled with highlights. All 3 of these will be posted at Funky Frolic in the not too distant future.

The tracks featured on this compilation come from the above releases along with several other Brutons and compilation albums, in particular the excellent "Aim High: Brian Bennet At KPM 1973-1976". The music is mostly in the realm of funk and jazz but "The Unknown", "Ergon", "Holy Mackerel!" and the famous "Chain Reaction" are explorations into crime jazz and electronics. I hope that you enjoy this compilation and I encourage you to leave a comment or a suggestion as to who you would like showcased in the future. You can find more of the Legends Of Library series here and visit Brian's official website here.

FF007 LEGENDS OF LIBRARY - TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY PEARSON

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?jqxpz9pj3j5bpzy

Track 1 - Wacker
Track 2 - Assault Course
Track 3 - Mini Motoring
Track 4 - Action Drive
Track 5 - Delhi Discoteque
Track 6 - Girl In Camera
Track 7 - Grand Prix
Track 8 - Long Way To Go
Track 9 - No Time To Hide
Track 10 - Product Efficiency
Track 11 - Action In Memphis
Track 12 - Saturday Off
Track 13 - Back Beat
Track 14 - Come Here Calcutta
Track 15 - Thunderbird
Track 16 - Action Point
Track 17 - Work Force
Track 18 - Crisis
Track 19 - Johnny Takes A Trip
Track 20 - The Awakening
Track 21 - Life Is For Living

I was alerted by a member of the Funky Frolic family that Johnny Pearson sadly passed away last Sunday, aged 85. I immediately set to work putting together a mix to showcase his exceptional career, despite only having 60 odd tracks by Johnny it was still a difficult task to decide what to include because everything he touched turned to gold. Far more than a library music legend, he also made a significant impact in pop and easy listening circles aswell.

This compilation is comprised of music Johnny composed for KPM, Bruton and Themes International. There is no description needed, the music speaks for itself. Rather than giving you a few bits and pieces of information I think it would be best if you take a moment to visit to his wikipedia page which has an informative summation of his 50 or so years in the business. He left an indelible impact on the music world and his legacy will continue to live on for many decades to come. One of the finest KPM's that Johnny worked on is "Sweet Groove" which you can download here. I would like to do a second volume sometime so if you have any of his other albums or songs I would be grateful for any donations.

SAUVEUR MALLIA - AUTOMATION

Download here

Track 1 - Robot Avenue
Track 2 - Automatic Meteor
Track 3 - Future Cosmic
Track 4 - Blue Laser
Track 5 - Automax
Track 6 - Computer For Love
Track 7 - Baby Robot
Track 8 - Bass Echo
Track 9 - Automax
Track 10 - Electronic Jogging
Track 11 - Percussion System

I haven't heard a lot of good music that was released in 1980 but this wonderful library record from the Telemusic label is an exception. Sauveur Mallia's "Automation" could be loosely described as electronic mood music, at times the tracks are sombre and contemplative ( "Future Cosmic", "Blue Laser" ) while there is also a playfulness that resonates through works such as "Baby Robot" and "Electronic Jogging". What strikes me the most about this collection is how well it has aged, suggesting that a lot of what Sauver created was ahead of its time. "Automation" is a good companion piece to the equally competent "Cosmosynthetic Vol.1" which you can download here.

POPSHOPPING VOL.1 - VARIOUS ARTISTS

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?ld2s621aqd408at

Track 1 - Mal Weghoren, Jetzt Kommt Werbung / Various
Track 2 - Ford Capri II / Christian Bruhn
Track 3 - Wild Freshness / Klaus Doldinger
Track 4 - Swinging Nordwest / Max Meier-Maletz
Track 5 - Moulinex / Gert Wilden
Track 6 - Variationen K71 / Luigi Pelliccioni
Track 7 - Minikillers 1 / Johnny Teupen
Track 8 - Opel Commodore / Klaus Wiisthoff
Track 9 - Frei Mit Boots / Klaus Doldinger
Track 10 - Arbeit '70 / Various
Track 11 - Polycolor / Klaus Wiisthoff
Track 12 - Mon Cheri / Klaus Wiisthoff
Track 13 - Swing A Little, Kim A Little / Various
Track 14 - Tobbler Twist / Conzelmann, Haensch
Track 15 - Sein Grober Traum / Erik Sylvester, M.Joyct
Track 16 - Roth Handle / Peter Schirmann
Track 17 - Nescafe Calypso / Max Woiski Snr.
Track 18 - Peach Girl / Baden, Brenk
Track 19 - Komm' In Fahrt, Der Hansa Pils Hit / Christian Bruhn
Track 20 - Minikillers 2 / Johnny Teupen
Track 21 - Ford Taunus / Christian Bruhn
Track 22 - Space Freitzeit '69 / W.Breinig
Track 23 - Swinging Nordwest (Playback) / Max Meier-Maletz
Track 24 - Strahler 70 / Christian Bruhn
Track 25 - Opel Rekord / Klaus Wusthoff
Track 26 - Moulinex (TV Version) / Gert Wilden
Track 27 - Sweet & Sexy / Baden, Brenk, Petri
Track 28 - Aus Dem Titel "Memories" / C.J Schauble, H.Jankowski

This collection of German advertising music provides a lot of smiles and plenty of groovy moments over the course of it's 28 tracks. Sourced from material produced between 1960 and 1975, the compositions are occasionally experimental and esoteric ("Space Freitzeit" being a good example) but for most part it maintains a pleasing easy / lounge feel. Other genres are represented though, with "Variationen K71" (jazz funk), "Komm In Fahrt" (rock) and "Abreit 70" (jazz) all making an impact. For me it is "Ford Taunus" that rises above everything else, a funky masterstroke which has been my favourite piece of music for over a decade now.

Amongst the novelty and kitsch there are plenty of finely composed works by the likes of Gert Wilden, Christian Bruhn and Johnny Teupen. It's a collection that I've grown to appreciate more over the years having bought it back in 2001. I'm sure there is enough fun and frivolity to keep you entertained for many years to come. For those who have also downloaded "Popshopping Vol.2" I would be curious to hear your thoughts and comparisons on these two unusual delights. Here is some of the album artwork...

IT'S ALWAYS HAPPY HOUR AT FUNKY FROLIC...WELL ALMOST

Those pesky glitches seem to be out of the system for now and my visitor numbers are back to normal so I can return to the task at hand - spreading the funkiness. Thanks to everyone who cheered me up yesterday, it was a big help.

I should have mentioned in my last message that the next volume of my Legends Of Library series is being released in 2 days and I hope it meets with your approval. I have also compiled a mix of Sesame Street music which I will probably post next week. As for my future uploads...I'm not sure yet, you'll just have to wait and see! I am going to re-up "Miss Piggy's Aerobique Exercise Album" in the near future because the link is dead and I have just added the instrumental tracks to "Man In Space With Sounds" for those who requested them. Hope you enjoy.

Unless anything else crops up I will speak to you all again on April 17 for my 5 Month Anniversary Update Spectacular. Cheers.

POPSHOPPING VOL.2 - VARIOUS ARTISTS

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?ww3mmc12s3oolns

Track 1 - Olivin / Peter Schirmann
Track 2 - Zigarilla / Lucas, Botho Singers, Sound Masters
Track 3 - Exposition K71 / Brass N Beatmachine, Hermann Gehlen
Track 4 - Miss Fenjala / Various
Track 5 - Sorry Doc / Hardy's Jet Band
Track 6 - BMW / Peter Schirmann
Track 7 - Wenn Der Teekessel Singt / Oliver Peters
Track 8 - Super Nowa Jingles / Various
Track 9 - London Look / Various
Track 10 - Wollsiegel Party / Orchester Udo Gerlach
Track 11 - Die Deutschen Bullen, Die Kraft Und Der Fortschritt / Various
Track 12 - Der Mann Mit Der Goldenen Hand / Horst Fischer
Track 13 - Edelkakao Cha Cha / Wolfgang Dauner
Track 14 - Frucade Hit / Hardy's Jet Band
Track 15 - Das Neue Haus, Hauptthema
Track 16 - Show Show Twist / Various
Track 17 - Opening / Johnny Teupen
Track 18 - Sabaphon TK125 / Wolfgang Dauner
Track 19 - Olivin 2 / Peter Schirmann
Track 20 - Go To Rallye / Harold Rosenstein
Track 21 - Widia Sound 70 / Various
Track 22 - The World's Over / Various
Track 23 - Happy Meeting / Various
Track 24 - Aral, Den Fortschritt Nutzen / Peter Thomas
Track 25 - Island Of My Dreams / Hartmut Kiesewetter
Track 26 - Lux International / Various
Track 27 - Jasmin / Peter Schirmann

The public response to "Popshopping Vol.1" was so overwhelming that Crippled Dick Hot Wax had no choice but to put out another collection and they produced the goods once again. Advertising music of the 60's and 70's already had a tendency to lean towards lounge/easy listening but when German composers went to task they didn't hold back! The sound is diverse with go go, psych rock, pop, jazz and funk complimenting the groovy lounge vibe. There is even a healthy dose of crime jazz on the track "Der Mann Mit Der Goldenen Hand".

Choosing highlights from such a wonderful CD is a purely subjective task but I am partial to "Go To Rallye" which is a high paced, super fun track that contains three distinct sections - all of them great. I like the work by Hardy's Jet Band, and Johnny Teupen shows class as usual on "Opening". "London Look" has a very familiar funk sound with the addition of some sexy female dialogue and Pete Thomas is at his kooky best on "Aral, Den Fortschritt Nutzen".

This release is probably a touch more solid than Volume 1, especially in regards to the flow of the music. Surprisingly it is much harder to find and seemingly less appreciated than the first one but it certainly falls into the category of being a must have. Enough talk, download it now!

AN UPDATE FOR ALL YOU GROOVY CATS

Hi everyone. Thought I would write and vent my annoyance at Blogger. It's bad enough that the formatting of my posts turns out poorly more often than not but 16 hours ago my stat counter stopped functioning correctly and it appeared as if no one was visiting me! This understandably made me quite sad but I have checked my backup counter and it looks like my loyal followers have not deserted me...

I was all set to go past 100,000 pageviews but it seems like that will have to wait a while. Maybe you could leave a message to cheer me up a little. On a happier note I will be posting Popshopping Vol.1 and 2 today and tomorrow, if you haven't heard them before then you're in for a real treat!

Update - There is some chatter that my Adult Content warning may have contributed to my lack of statistical information (who knows why) so I've turned it off for now. So if you're under 18 - avert your eyes!!!

PATCHWORK 49 - ACTION

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?dj3b3w5v9hjcsjr

Track 1 - Surveyor
Track 2 - Progress
Track 3 - Mechanical Box
Track 4 - Panorama
Track 5 - Force
Track 6 - Punch
Track 7 - Dynamic
Track 8 - Action
Track 9 - A Mind Level

This Patchwork release by Gerard Zadj and Pierre Decerf is a study in how to successfully use electronic instruments to produce organic sounds. Somewhat similar in tone to the "Virgin Suicides" soundtrack, this album (while clearly from the late 70's or early 80"s) has a timeless quality that should appeal to many of you. The synths are augmented with some excellent guitar playing along with the occasional drum or bass line. It's hard to imagine any of this music being used in a library music context but purely as a listening experience it is a very consistent and enjoyable record. Many thanks to Paul Durango for this rip.

KPM 1130 - AFRO ROCK

Download here

Track 1 - Heavy Water
Track 2 - Ice Beaker
Track 3 - Solid Satin
Track 4 - Punch Bowl
Track 5 - Frozen Stream
Track 6 - Black Light
Track 7 - Range Rover
Track 8 - Swamp Fever
Track 9 - Safari So Good
Track 10 - Survival
Track 11 - Afro Waltz
Track 12 - Sahara Sunrise
Track 13 - Rocking Rhino
Track 14 - Heat Haze
Track 15 - Afro Metropolis

Probably the most well known and well loved KPM of all time, "Afro Rock" has at least a dozen tracks that qualify as being classics in the library music field. Any collaboration between John Cameron and Alan Parker is a match made in heaven and you can sense the chemistry these two have in the studio, this is exemplified by the creativity that courses throughout each track. Despite the title there is hardly anything "rock" about this collection ( aside from the opener "Heavy Water" ) and the only relation it has to afro is in some of the percussion. In reality the record is more jazz and funk inspired but tracks like "Heat Haze" and "Swamp Fever" defy such labels and this is one of the reasons why they are so intriguing. I can't look past "Punch Bowl" in terms of funky brilliance, I must have played this song hundreds of times over the years and still love it just as much today. The version here is slightly longer than the one featured on "Sound Gallery Vol.1".

Simply put, you cannot have a collection of KPM's or library music in general without "Afro Rock" being a part of it. It's a truly magnificent album. Many of these songs can also be found on the wonderful "Setting The Scene: From The Vaults Of KPM" compilation.

ATTILIO MINEO - MAN IN SPACE WITH SOUNDS

Tracks 1-12  http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?hjcwcimmjz539lx
Tracks 13-24  http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?tzz4hk57wn2q2zq

Track 1 - Welcome To Tomorrow
Track 2 - Gayway To Heaven
Track 3 - Soaring Science
Track 4 - Mile A Minute Monorail
Track 5 - Around The World
Track 6 - Century 21
Track 7 - Man In Art
Track 8 - The Queen City
Track 9 - Man Seeks The Future
Track 10 - Boeing Spacearium
Track 11 - Science Of Tomorrow
Track 12 - Space Age World's Fair
Tracks 13 through 24 - Same as above expect without dialogue.

This is certainly a candidate for the weirdest record in my music collection. Attilio "Art" Mineo was asked to provide music which could be broadcast as people viewed the various exhibits of the 1962 World's Fair in Seattle. The results are spooky and spacey with the primary instruments in use being violins and electronic equipment. In my view the real joy comes from the informative voice overs that precede each piece of music, the descriptions prove to be quite humorous considering how off the mark they are in predicting some of the future technological advancements.

While the music wont be to everyone's taste there is no doubting the cache of a collection such as this. It has relevance in terms of being a historical document and as a study in the incorporation of electronic and conventional instruments during the early 1960's.

THE FINE MACHINE - HABITAT

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?aoss0b90ef5jveb

Track 1 - Crazy Eel
Track 2 - Shut Paranoia
Track 3 - Hand Shake
Track 4 - Raging Beat
Track 5 - Flute Fight
Track 6 - Wait For Me
Track 7 - Obsessing Promenade
Track 8 - Skin Deep
Track 9 - Snobbery
Track 10 - God Is Infinite
Track 11 - Cold Fever
Track 12 - The Eastern Question

Track 10 proclaims that "God Is Infinite" but so are the grooves on this rare and highly desirable library gem from Italy. The key elements on this record are the thoroughly enjoyable percussion ( lots of juicy breakbeats! ) and the liberal use of flute. There is also some fine piano/organ work included on tracks such as "Cold Fever", "Raging Beat" and "Wait For Me". A certain psychedelic tinge flows through some of the pieces while at other times a cheeky sense of humour adds interest to the proceedings.

The least impressive track would be the repetitive opener "Crazy Eel" while the best in my opinion is the insanely groovy "Obsessing Promenade" which comes off sounding like a freaked out version of the classic song "Spinning Wheel". Overall it is an album which demands the listener's attention and is at once imaginative, inventive and most importantly, funky!

MANDINGO - THE PRIMEVAL RHYTHM OF LIFE

Download here

Track 1 - Mandingo
Track 2 - Black Rite
Track 3 - Medicine Man
Track 4 - Jungle Wedding
Track 5 - Chant Of The Virgins
Track 6 - Sacrifice
Track 7 - Tiger In The Night
Track 8 - Black Fire
Track 9 - Moon Goddess
Track 10 - Pagan Ritual

Afro funkiness? Check. Library music grooves? Check. Electronic weirdness? Why not. Sonic overload? You better believe it!!! Apparently this record was used in the 70's to showcase the latest in hi fi equipment and it's easy to hear why with it's plethora of boombastic percussion and eyebrow raising synths. Many of you will be familiar with Mandingo from the tracks "Black Rite" and "Snake Pit" which appear on the "Sound Gallery Vol.1" compilation and the good news is that the same kind of intensity and dedication to freaky. headstrong grooves continue through the whole album. It's a celebration of good music and you're all invited!

MORE ADVERTISING MUSIC???

I have had a request by anon for even more advertising music and while my own stocks are running a bit low I am happy to provide some information on where to locate other compilations. The Chocoreve blog has 8 volumes of psychedelic promo music which can be accessed at this page -

http://chocoreve.blogspot.com/2008_06_01_archive.html

At Psychotic Leisure Music there is an extended version of the Thing Go Better With Coke collection which has about 40 more jingles -

http://p-l-m.blogspot.com/2008/09/things-go-better-with-coke-sixties-coca.html

Actually, now that I think about it I probably have 5 more compilations up my sleeve. I might post another one in the next week or so. In the meantime I will keep an eye out for more of this type of music. Cheers.

SECRET AGENT FILE - VARIOUS ARTISTS

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?2p93ywm5jkrpotg

Track 1 - Octopussy
Track 2 - I Spy
Track 3 - Reilly, Ace Of Spies
Track 4 - Casino Royale
Track 5 - Ipcress File
Track 6 - Thunderball
Track 7 - Man From U.N.C.L.E
Track 8 - The Prisoner
Track 9 - James Bond Theme
Track 10 - Our Man Flint
Track 11 - Moonraker
Track 12 - The Man Who Came In From The Cold
Track 13 - Run Spy Run
Track 14 - Get Smart
Track 15 - You Only Live Twice
Track 16 - 007
Track 17 - Goldfinger
Track 18 - The Rockford Files

This Bond heavy collection of spy themes has a consistency of sound that suggests that they have all been performed by the same group. Whether they are originals or covers doesn't matter much because the source material does all the talking. "Octopussy", "Thunderball", "Goldfinger", "Get Smart" and "I Spy" all shine through however my top pick is the superb "Ipcress File" which has all the qualities of an Italian soundtrack masterpiece. As far as spy themed collections go this exceeded my expectations in terms of the track selection and the fantastic production qualities. Top stuff.

THE BONGOLIAN: 100% HEAVY BONGO VIBES

http://rapidshare.com/files/417893213/Bongolian.rar.html

Track 1 - Rollin' With You
Track 2 - Merve Plays Vibes
Track 3 - Bongohead
Track 4 - The Fatback Showdown
Track 5 - Champagne And Pizza
Track 6 - Dirt, Sweat And Bones
Track 7 - Madman In Africa
Track 8 - The Shackles Of Ramm
Track 9 - Flight Through The Five Galaxies
Track 10 - 16 Valve News Reel

The title might lead you to believe this is just a simple collection of bongo heavy tunes but in reality it has more in common with the Alan Hawkshaw-esque organ grooves on the Blow Up compilations. Ofcourse the bongo playing is a feature, however it is complimented by some nice breakbeats, vibes and 70's grade guitar work. The sound is highly authentic with almost no sign that this is a modern release, highlights include "The Fatback Showdown", the psych funk groove of "Madman In Africa" and the extended jam "Flight Through The Five Galaxies". In fact the only disappointment is "Bongohead", a rather underwhelming song that was inexplicably released as the single for the album. 9 out of 10 Frolics!

FREEDOM POWER - VARIOUS ARTISTS

Download here

Track 1 - Sigla R.P / G. Ducros
Track 2 - Privacy / Pirot
Track 3 - Dopping 2000 / G.Ducros
Track 4 - Feasing / E. Pieranunzi & S.Chimenti
Track 5 - Reaction / S.Brugnolini
Track 6 - Psyco / G.Ducros
Track 7 - Vortice / S.Brugnolini
Track 8 - Love For Sale / Mirot
Track 9 - Freedom Power / G.Ducros
Track 10 - Metropolis Notte / G.Ducros
Track 11 - Trip Free / G.Ducros

This superb LP was released on the Cometa label just after "Milano Violenta" in 1976. The listener is constantly kept guessing as the music swings between psych funk, esoteric jazz and Italian love themes then back again. Tracks like "Love For Sale", "Privacy" and "Metropolis Notte" are simply timeless and go a long way to explaining why Cometa albums are so highly regarded. I have to wonder if the songs credited to "G. Ducros" are actually from Remigio Ducros because it certainly sounds like they could be. Please note - This record was reissued in 2010 with a different cover and 4 more tracks than the rip I have. I wasn't able to find any information on the track listing of the original so I'm not sure if those 4 tracks were included in the 1970's release. Either way, I don't think you'll be disappointed with this fine collection.

Update - After looking at the Cometa website I now know that the original release only had the 11 tracks listed above. Cheers.

JANKO NILOVIC - IMPRESSIONS VOL.1

http://rapidshare.com/files/42044399/Impressions_1.zip

Track 1 - Shacking Pop
Track 2 - Electric Days
Track 3 - Essai Pop Art
Track 4 - Funky Village
Track 5 - Gipsy Funk
Track 6 - Chorus For Leslie
Track 7 - Scratching Machine
Track 8 - Sacha Pacha
Track 9 - Atchika Boum
Track 10 - Blows And Rhythm
Track 11 - Blue Baby
Track 12 - Centre Atomique
Track 13 - African Dream
Track 14 - Cascades Et Canoes
Track 15 - Cross Rolls
Track 16 - Blow Down

Volume 1 of the Janko Nilovic retrospective collection has a distinctly different vibe to Volume 2, there is more of a rock influence to many of these tracks and they seem to be even more succinct and attention grabbing. There are still plenty of similarities between the two compilations though, chiefly being the use of funk and jazz elements as well as the French penchant for wordless female vocals. The percussion deserves a special mention, while not overt it is still good enough to stand out amongst all the great instrumentation going on. For those not familiar with the work of Nilovic I think you will find this record to be a revelation of cool grooves and brilliant composing. Thanks to the original uploader.

JANKO NILOVIC - IMPRESSIONS VOL.2

http://rapidshare.com/files/42044518/Impressions_2.zip

Track 1 - Mixed Grill
Track 2 - Golf Open
Track 3 - Improvisation Pour 2 Voix
Track 4 - Post Scriptum
Track 5 - Samba Dio
Track 6 - Funky Tramway
Track 7 - Flock
Track 8 - Machine Gun
Track 9 - Aerospacial
Track 10 - Sitting Bull
Track 11 - Sunder Fire
Track 12 - Soul Impressions
Track 13 - The Third Power
Track 14 - Trumpet Superstar
Track 15 - Strange Dream
Track 16 - Sometimes Ago

In keeping with this weekends French theme I have a real treat for you. This compilation is the second volume of tracks celebrating the wonderful career of Janko Nilovic. a man who has left an indelible mark on the world of library music and rare groove.  His unique take on jazz and funk is infused with  influences from around the globe with tracks such as "Samba Dio" (Latin), "Post Scriptum" (Exotica) and "Aerospacial" (Crime Funk) all showcasing his range. There is no mistaking the French origins of this music though, especially when it comes to the vocal numbers.

While some of the songs were obviously not created for use as production music they still maintain the same qualities, focused and soulful, funky and memorable. As they say in the classics - it's all killer no filler! If you would like more of Janko's work you can download it here.

BEN & THE PLATANO GROUP - PARIS SOUL

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?o8389xw4k81gmcb

Track 1 - Platano Split
Track 2 - Salute To Santa
Track 3 - Black Waders
Track 4 - Woluwe Strip
Track 5 - Cabaret
Track 6 - Paris Soul
Track 7 - Culzean
Track 8 - Castill Battle
Track 9 - Hang Out
Track 10 - Arte Pino Pasta

Lately I have been concentrating on Italian rare groove but I thought it was time to see what the French had to offer. Presented for your pleasure is this 1971 release from Ben & The Platano Group which is filled to the brim with lots of Latin percussion, choppy guitars, killer keyboard and soulful horns. There are subtle nods towards jazz and funk but the diversity of grooves doesn't allow for a clear description of the sound, all I can say is that it's very, very good!!!

A quick search of the internet reveals just how popular and highly regarded this record is with collectors of cool music, if you haven't had the opportunity to download it previously then get on board! P.S - It's got a great cover too, don't you think?

THE BEASTLES - LET IT BEAST

http://www.mediafire.com/?5pey9utu6xjwxeo

Track 1 - Ladies Do Love Me
Track 2 - Belly Movin'
Track 3 - Buildin' My Life
Track 4 - Electrified Kite
Track 5 - Let It Beast
Track 6 - Lovely NYC
Track 7 - Anna's MC (Set Free From The Crawlspace)
Track 8 - Love You To Check It Out
Track 9 - Looking Down The Barrel Of A Warm Gun
Track 10 - A Day In The Life Of A Beastie Boy

This is an interesting concept - it's a mashup of classic songs by the Beatles incorporated into classic songs by the Beastie Boys. The results are mixed with some of the tracks sounding like they were meant to happen while others are a bit rough around the edges. It's certainly one that will appeal more to Beastie fans because their music plays the leading role while the Beatles are relegated to samples and rhythms. Definitely one worth checking out.

KPM 1131 - THE TRENDSETTERS

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?sc1i5297wij77uz

Track 1 - Johnny Be Bad / John Cameron
Track 2 - Heavy Traffic / John Cameron
Track 3 - The Competitors / John Cameron
Track 4 - Jay Walking / John Cameron
Track 5 - Go Getter / John Cameron
Track 6 - Sunny Speed / John Cameron
Track 7 - Sunny Laze / John Cameron
Track 8 - Current Caption / James Clarke
Track 9 - News And Views / Alan Moorhouse
Track 10 - News And Views (Long Link) / Alan Moorhouse
Track 11 - News And Views (Short Link) / Alan Moorhouse
Track 12 - Short Cut / James Clarke
Track 13 - Second Cut / James Clarke
Track 14 - Cine Mobile / James Clarke
Track 15 - Gentle Dissolve / James Clarke
Track 16 - Coming On Home / John Cameron
Track 17 - Funky Thing / Keith Mansfield
Track 18 - Go Away Day / Keith Mansfield

This wonderful KPM from 1973 deserves just as much attention as some of the more fancied releases in the 1000 series. The main styles featured include rock, funk and easy listening and within the 18 tracks there are classics such as "Second Cut", "Funky Thing" and "Sunny Speed". John Cameron's work is just sublime but the others aren't too far behind, especially James Clarke who showcases his unique skills with a number of simple but effective pieces. "Go Away Day" by Keith Mansfield finishes the set, a track which would be right at home on the soundtrack to "Curb Your Enthusiasm". You wont regret downloading this one!

MONDO DIABLO PODCAST - PRE SEASON SHOPPING BONANZA

http://www.insolitology.com/shows/mondodiablo/ep163.mp3

Track 1 - The Drifters For Coca-Cola
Track 2 - Alleee 1
Track 3 - Oktoberfest Souvenir
Track 4 - Coco Puffs
Track 5 - KPM: Library Product Efficiency
Track 6 - Children’s Vocal For Bestline
Track 7 - RCA Selectavision
Track 8 - The Wonderful World of Music
Track 9 - America In Motion
Track 10 - Revlon’s Charlie
Track 11 - KPM Library: Mini Motoring
Track 12 - KFC Famous Bowls
Track 13 - Spic And Span
Track 14 - The Free Life
Track 15 - Freddy, Freddy
Track 16 - Puritan Meats
Track 17 - Disco Holiday
Track 18 - The More You Sell
Track 19 - Vincent Price For Hangman
Track 20 - Easter Afternoon
Track 21 - George Carlin On Voting
Track 22 - What’s To Eat?
Track 23 - Account Execs
Track 24 - Le Poisson et l’Oisseau
Track 25 - Woolworth Records
Track 26 - What Kind Of Fool Am I?
Track 27 - Another Brick In The Wall
Track 28 - Wrigley’s Spearmint Gum
Track 29 - Alleee 2

Want more advertising music and jingles? I hope so because I just picked up this gem of a podcast from Mondo Diablo which has a cool collection of retro and modern adverts as well as some related esoterica. A few library music tracks are featured (mainly from KPM) such as the great "Mini Motoring" and "Product Efficiency". Also there is a comedy bit by Patton Oswalt who rips on KFC and their customers to good effect and a few more interesting bits and pieces along the way. Hope you enjoy.

MURMURS OF THE EARTH - THE NASA VOYAGER GOLDEN RECORD

Disk 1 - http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?5rhvz7e0edx6a0r
Disk 2 - http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?kyh480z0owz54qa

DISK 1

Track 1 - Greetings From The Secretary General Of The U.N
Track 2 - Greetings In 55 Languages
Track 3 - U.N Greetings / Whale Greetings
Track 4 - The Sounds Of Earth
Track 5 - Brandenberg Concerto No.2 First Movement
Track 6 - Kinds Of Flowers
Track 7 - Tchenhoukoumen
Track 8 - Pygmy Girls Initiation Song
Track 9 - Morning Star And Devil Bird
Track 10 - El Cascabel
Track 11 - Johnny B. Goode
Track 12 - Men's Housing Song
Track 13 - Cranes In Their Nest
Track 14 - Gavotte en Rondeaux From The Partita No.3 In E Major
Track 15 - The Magic Flute, Queen Of The Night Aria No.14

DISK 2

Track 1 - Tchakrulo
Track 2 - Panpipes And Drum Song
Track 3 - Melancholy Blues
Track 4 - Ugam
Track 5 - Rite Of Spring Sacrificial Dance
Track 6 - The Well Tempered Clavier, Prelude And Fugue In C No.1
Track 7 - Beethoven Symphony No.5
Track 8 - Iziel Je Delyo Hagdutin
Track 9 - Navajo Night Chant
Track 10 - Fairie Round 20
Track 11 - Melanesian Panpipes
Track 12 - Wedding Song
Track 13 - Flowing Streams
Track 14 - Jaat Kahan Ho
Track 15 - Dark Was The Night
Track 16 - String Quartet No. 13 In B Flat, Opus 130 Cavatina

There have been plenty of space themed records made over the decades but this is the only one that can lay claim to have been produced specifically to be sent into orbit. With the hope of reaching an alien audience, NASA collected a wide array of audio in an attempt to portray life on Earth. This is what the NASA website says about the record...

The Voyager message is carried by a phonograph record-a 12-inch gold-plated copper disk containing sounds and images selected to portray the diversity of life and culture on Earth. The contents of the record were selected for NASA by a committee chaired by Carl Sagan of Cornell University, et. al. Dr. Sagan and his associates assembled 115 images and a variety of natural sounds, such as those made by surf, wind and thunder, birds, whales, and other animals. To this they added musical selections from different cultures and eras, and spoken greetings from Earth-people in fifty-five languages, and printed messages from President Carter and U.N. Secretary General Waldheim. Each record is encased in a protective aluminum jacket, together with a cartridge and a needle. Instructions, in symbolic language, explain the origin of the spacecraft and indicate how the record is to be played.

The 115 images are encoded in analog form. The remainder of the record is in audio, designed to be played at 16-2/3 revolutions per minute. It contains the spoken greetings, beginning with Akkadian, which was spoken in Sumer about six thousand years ago, and ending with Wu, a modern Chinese dialect. Following the section on the sounds of Earth, there is an eclectic 90-minute selection of music, including both Eastern and Western classics and a variety of ethnic music.

Once the Voyager spacecraft leave the solar system (by 1990, both will be beyond the orbit of Pluto), they will find themselves in empty space. It will be forty thousand years before they make a close approach to any other planetary system. As Carl Sagan has noted, “The spacecraft will be encountered and the record played only if there are advanced spacefaring civilizations in interstellar space. But the launching of this bottle into the cosmic ocean says something very hopeful about life on this planet.”

FF005 FROLIC BEATS VOL.3 - VARIOUS ARTISTS

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?4b28v16f8c1mcfb

Track 1 - Running From Danger / Steve Gray
Track 2 - Wild Cat Walk / Ivor Raymond
Track 3 - Dark Hands / Barigozzi Group
Track 4 - Full Speed / Claude Bolling
Track 5 - Metropolis / Janko Nilovic
Track 6 - Phunky Fanfare / Keith Mansfield & Si Begg
Track 7 - Hurricane Wheels / Sammy Burdson
Track 8 - Zombie March / Nat Dove And The Devils
Track 9 - Portobello Market / Syd Dale
Track 10 - Sexy Beast / Shawn Lee's Ping Pong Orchestra
Track 11 - Western Promise / The Mohawks
Track 12 - Drag Racer / Douglas Wood Group
Track 13 - Knight Rider / London Music Works
Track 14 - Sun Adoration / Yan Tregger
Track 15 - Mandrake / Les Humphries
Track 16 - Alive / Beastie Boys & Alan Hawkshaw

Here I am, back once again with a carefully crafted selection of library music, rare groove and more. Volume 3 keeps things uptempo and playful with the emphasis on breakbeats. Two of the more interesting tracks are "Phunky Fanfare" which is Si Begg's take on the Keith Mansfield classic and "Alive", a sublime mashup of my favourite Beastie Boys track with "Beat Me 'Til I'm Blue" by Alan Hawkshaw. Other highlights include the full on rave that is "Metropolis". the creeping "Wild Cat Walk" and just for something different - the theme to "Knight Rider". I hope you enjoy the grooves, be sure to leave a comment if you do. Volumes 1 and 2 can be downloaded here and here.

FUNKY FROLIC'S 4 MONTH ANNIVERSARY UPDATE

Welcome to my monthly rundown of everything happening in the Funky Frolic universe. As you can see I have made a couple of changes to the appearance of the blog - I hope they meet with your approval. It's been another huge month, as always I would like to give a big thank you to those who have been active in leaving comments and message of support. Also I would like to welcome the recent Followers who have come on board, I hope you enjoy being a part of the club.

A special shout out goes to pixel_face, THX Jay, Mike, The Saucer People, Summo, retronic and Killa who have made a variety of contributions, musical or otherwise, to Funky Frolic in recent times. Blogging is so much more fun when it's a team sport.

On to the music...later today I will be releasing Volume 3 in my Frolic Beats series and I hope you all take the opportunity to download it and get down to the grooves. As is becoming tradition, I will post the next installment of Legends Of Library on the last day of the month. Who will be in the spotlight this time? Feel free to take a guess or make a suggestion for who you would like to see featured in the future.

If it's funky, groovy, jazzy, beat laden, electro, orchestral or just plain weird you will find it here in the coming weeks and months. Come along for the ride!

BLUE SHARKS - IT BECAME CRYSTAL

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?izr9c7310f350tt

Track 1 - The Bishop's House
Track 2 - Waiting The Blow
Track 3 - The Newcomer
Track 4 - A Calming Hypothesis
Track 5 - Handy Goes To The Pub
Track 6 - Clumsy Chap
Track 7 - A Baroque Joke
Track 8 - The Hunter
Track 9 - It Became Crystal
Track 10 - A Sort Of Witchery
Track 11 - A "Watt" Too Much

Listening to "Suono Libero Vol.2" got me thinking about some of the individual artists involved and I was able to come up with this lovely effort by Blue Sharks. Considered to be one of the most accomplished studio bands in Italy at the time, their skills are evident on this wonderful LP.  Much like fine wine this music goes down smooth and leaves a pleasant aftertaste with the songs successfully finding a middle ground between library music and soundtrack grooves. There are too many highlights to mention them all here, but what I will say is that the label rare groove was made for this type of record. 10 out of 10 Frolics. Thanks to The Growing Bin for this rip.

BRUTON BRH 05 - LIGHT MY FIRE

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?c5rirq8lz7otl86

Track 1 - Hawkwind And Fire / Alan Hawkshaw
Track 2 - Hawkwind And Fire (Alternate) / Alan Hawkshaw
Track 3 - Stateside / L.Hurdle, F.Ricotti
Track 4 - Superdude / Francis Monkman
Track 5 - Wonder Groove / Steve Grey
Track 6 - Hard Sell / Francis Monkman
Track 7 - Move On / L.Hurdle, F.Ricotti
Track 8 - Fuel Injection / Alan Hawkshaw
Track 9 - Light My Fire / Steve Gray
Track 10 - Sunshine Shuffle / Steve Gray
Track 11 - Disco Fever / Brian Bennett
Track 12 - Blockbuster / Keith Mansfield
Track 13 - Disco Dynamite / Keith Mansfield
Track 14 - Discolypso / Steve Gray
Track 15 - Reach Out / Steve Gray

Another Bruton that features an all star cast, 1978's "Light My Fire" concentrates on funk, jazz and disco with excellent results. "Hawkwind And Fire", "Disco Fever" and "Blockbuster" are all in the mix for my favourite Bruton tracks of all time and Steve Gray also provides some smooth grooves to the proceedings.  The Francis Monkman songs are noteworthy as usual with their busy style and slick drumming, "Superdude" has a porn groove meets afro meets disco vibe going on while "Hard Sell" is more in the realm of straight up jazz funk. Pleasure abounds through all 15 tracks in what surely must be one of the best Bruton releases ever...

MUSIC FOR BISCUITS - THE MIKE SAMMES SINGERS

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?t96x1rymmi3k1cr

Track 1 - Ariel
Track 2 - TUC
Track 3 - Timex
Track 4 - Dulux Super 3 (Vocal)
Track 5 - First Lady
Track 6 - Pattons
Track 7 - Fairy Snow
Track 8 - Heineken
Track 9 - Vespa
Track 10 - Southern Sound
Track 11 - Pink Marble Shield
Track 12 - Fine Fayre
Track 13 - Dulux Super 3 (Instrumental)
Track 14 - White Heather 1
Track 15 - White Heather 2
Track 16 - White Heather 3
Track 17 - Go Gourmet
Track 18 - Chocolate Vienna
Track 19 - Toast Toppers
Track 20 - International Harvester 1
Track 21 - Luxol
Track 22 - Loxene
Track 23 - Michelle
Track 24 - Luxol
Track 25 - Fonoy (Instrumental)
Track 26 - Golden Sovereign
Track 27 - Yardley's Pilot
Track 28 - International Harvester 2
Track 29 - Sunblest
Track 30 - Just Like Swingles
Track 31 - Sweet Young Fumbles
Track 32 - Grass On The Pitch
Track 33 - Barefoot On The Rec
Track 34 - Blackhead Whitehead
Track 35 - A Little More Growing Up
Track 36 - Westminster Bank
Track 37 - Westminster Bank
Track 38 - Westminster Bank
Track 39 - Unknown Instrumental
Track 40 - Unknown Instrumental
Track 41 - Bright New World, Shield Persil
Track 42 - Unknown Instrumental
Track 43 - Top Shake
Track 44 - Extra Power Fairy Snow

Much more than just music for biscuits, this is an outstanding collection of 1960's advertising jingles from England. There is something rather strange about hearing the angelic voices of these singers attempting to sell tractors, beer and banking services. However, being advertising music it has a way of drawing you in and keeping your attention. Amongst the groovy ads there are some nice extended musical numbers such as "Grass On The Pitch" and all of the unknown instrumentals. If you would like more of this type of music you can download it here or here.

Please note - Between Tracks 1 and 37 the songs and titles don't match up (they are one off). I'm sure you'll be able to work out what's playing though. To find out more about Mike Sammes check out this link -

http://www.trunkrecords.com/turntable/biscuits.shtml

A.VUOLO & E.GRANDE - DESERT

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?e1jx1uwrlbw2o9c

Track 1 - Take Flight
Track 2 - Drops In The Wind
Track 3 - Leaving
Track 4 - Soft Melody
Track 5 - Desert
Track 6 - Bubbles
Track 7 - Transvesuvian
Track 8 - Creation
Track 9 - The End

Released in 1979, this stunning album has something for everybody. Whether it's disco, beats, ambient, easy listening, funk or prog you can find it all here. Vuolo and Grande work their magic from the get go with "Take Flight" being an over the top disco funk groover, "Drops In The Wind" is barely audible for the first 2 minutes before kicking into overdrive with it's wild keyboards. "Transvesuvian" is probably the best known track on the record and it contains all the qualities you might find in a Bruton release of the same vintage.

If you enjoy listening to a diverse ranges of moods and grooves then I would highly recommend giving this one a go. Let me know what you think! Thanks to ProgNotFrog for the original rip.

SUONO LIBERO VOL.1 - VARIOUS ARTISTS

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?ct02nt8ydu42k22

Track 1 - Shake No.5 / Romano Rizzati
Track 2 - Per L'eternita / Brasilian Boys
Track 3 - Wondering Man / Giuliano Sorgini
Track 4 - Eclisse Lunare / Antonio Riccardo Luciani
Track 5 - Barrio Bueno / The Cabildos
Track 6 - Mongo / Blue Sharks
Track 7 - First / Ugo Fusco
Track 8 - Central Park / M.J.Q
Track 9 - Bossa Astratta / Luigi Zito
Track 10 - Rally / Gino Marinacci
Track 11 - Iron Piano / Mario Molino & His Group
Track 12 - Joybells / Yellow Sharks
Track 13 - Liberto Beat / Antonio Riccardo Luciani
Track 14 - Vento Di Terra / Marco Persichetti

While less appreciated (and harder to find) than it's sequel, "Suono Libero Vol.1" still has plenty to offer with a strong batch of lounge groove. South American influences float through some of the tracks, examples of this being "Bossa Astratta" and "Per L'eternita" while elsewhere there is plenty of breakbeats, keyboard solos and groovy flute playing.

"Joybells" by Yellow Sharks happens to sound almost identical to "Theme For Aretha" by the Barigozzi Group so I'm not sure what is going on there but it's a great song none the less. Some of the more esoteric tracks prove to be the most enjoyable in my opinion, "Rally" reminds me of the guitar stylings of Southern Culture On The Skids and "Vento Di Terra" sounds like it's from the very, very late 70's.

I posted "Under Pompelmo" by Giuliano Sorgini a couple of days ago so you could see the origin of the cover art for "Souno Libero".

SUONO LIBERO VOL.2 - VARIOUS ARTISTS

Disk 1 - http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?gt5enpa7q4pqso2
Disk 2 - http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?3gfllr3zced5ldz

Disk 1

Track 1 - The Turf / Giuliano Sorgini
Track 2 - Accadde Ad Harlem / Arawak
Track 3 - Slap It / Paolo Casa
Track 4 - Nervoso / Astemix
Track 5 - Missoula / L.Bergonzi
Track 6 - Black California / Pino Canizzo
Track 7 - Black Congregation / Remigio Ducros
Track 8 - Vance / Hingross
Track 9 - Dialogando / Alessandro Alessandroni
Track 10 - Entusiasmante / Awake
Track 11 - Tigers / Paolo Casa
Track 12 - Vividezza / Rino de Filippi
Track 13 - Tube / Ninety
Track 14 - Sgambata / Remigio Ducros
Track 15 - Salgemma / P.Ferrara

Disk 2

Track 1 - Echoes From Canyon / Giuliano Sorgini
Track 2 - Contropiede / Remigio Ducros
Track 3 - Icarus / Daniela Casa
Track 4 - Solo Per Amore / Walter Rizzati
Track 5 - Beta Lady / Daniela Casa
Track 6 - Distortion / Blue Sharks
Track 7 - Curiosando / Walter Rizzati
Track 8 - Hippie / Pedro Gomez
Track 9 - Poseidon / Franco Tamponi
Track 10 - Scott Fizzy / Franco Potenza
Track 11 - Piacevole / Luigi Zito
Track 12 - Handy Goes To The Pub / Blue Sharks
Track 13 - Spirayls / Daniela Casa
Track 14 - Disadattati / Remigio Ducros
Track 15 - Notte Violenta / Fotriafa
Track 16 - Lo Canto / Giuliano Sorgini
Track 17 - Sad Blues / M.Bordoni
Track 18 - Rainy Day / Framan

The English have "The Sound Gallery" as their library music bible and for the Italian's it is "Suono Libero Vol.2". Remigio Ducros and Giuliano Sorgini form the backbone of this compilation with both of them being recognised for their brilliance in the library / rare groove genre. Other performances of note include the 8 minute jazz masterpiece "Tube" by the group Ninety, Arawak makes an appearance in the form of a flute groove called "Accadde Ad Harlem", there is the irresistibly funky "Distortion" by Blue Sharks and the slinky, spooky "Scott Fizzy" by Franco Potenza.

Over the course of 2 discs we are treated to a grab bag of different styles that ably represent everything that was good about Italian music in the 1970's. You might be wondering, "What About Volume 1?". Well, there was only 14 tracks on the first volume and compared to the comprehensive nature of this sequel it does come off as being a poor relative (despite being very good in it's own right). I will post Volume 1 tomorrow so you can judge for yourself.

GIULIANO SORGINI - UNDER POMPELMO

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?vx4it5a85bu69lg

Track 1 - Under Pompelrmo
Track 2 - London Transport
Track 3 - Echoes From Canyon
Track 4 - To Rebound
Track 5 - Wandering Man
Track 6 - When I See You

"Under Pompelmo" is one of the most sought after Italian rare groove delights in the world. This record sells for huge amounts of money on the internet ($700 if you are lucky) and it is easy to understand why when you hear it. The opening track may be an imposing 16 minutes long but you'll still be begging for more! "London Transport" has a U.K style go go groove teamed with some quintessential Italian guitar fuzz and tempo changes. "Echoes from Canyon" is along the same lines but with the inclusion of wordless female vocals and "Wandering Man" starts off with a wicked drum break that forms the base for an equally mind blowing keyboard solo. The melancholic, soundtrack-worthy "When I See You" finishes the set with style.

It is the combination of outstanding musicianship, exceptional composing and top class production that places this album at the top of the list for discerning music lovers across the globe. Here is your chance to  find out what the fuss is all about. This record is sometimes seen under the name "London Transport" with a different cover (see below).

LES BAXTER - THE DUNWICH HORROR OST

Download here

Track 1 - Dunwich Horror (Main Title)
Track 2 - Sacrifice Of The Virgin
Track 3 - Black Mass
Track 4 - Sensual Hallucinations
Track 5 - Strange Sleep
Track 6 - Cult Party
Track 7 - Necronomicon
Track 8 - Reincarnation
Track 9 - Devil Cult
Track 10 - Dunwich Theme
Track 11 - Devil's Witchcraft

It might be considered a B movie but the Les Baxter soundtrack to this 1970 horror flick is definitely A+. The whole concept of an exotica / easy listening legend creating music for such a film should spike the attention of soundtrack lovers. Most of the tracks are a variation on the Main Theme, with plenty of horns, off kilter piano and spooky theremin complimenting the usual instrumentation you would expect from Baxter. Some of the music actually comes off sounding a bit like the Virgin Suicides OST by Air (or is that vice versa?). For me the key highlight is the very last track which is a pulsating drum heavy delight. If you'd like some more info about the film you can visit the wiki entry here.

COOK COUNTY - PINBALL PLAYBOY

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?km0njwukwi3e75q

Track 1 - Pinball Playboy Theme
Track 2 - Little Girls And Ladies
Track 3 - Comin' To Getcha
Track 4 - Olympiad '84
Track 5 - Reach Out For Love
Track 6 - Funky Get It
Track 7 - State Street Samba

Now, this is a fascinating disco groove release on the Motown label performed by an anonymous group called "Cook County". From what I understand it was created as a promotion for the 1979 rollout of the Playboy pinball machine. The producer was Vic Caeser who led an interesting life, he resided at the Playboy mansion for 10 years, was a piano player in Marilyn Monroe's stage act, allegedly took drugs with Robert Kennedy and Sammy Davis Jr. and also wrote the theme song to Richard Nixon's 1968 presidential campaign (despite being a democrat).

The title track is a reworking of the "Playboy Theme" by Cy Coleman with additional pinball sound effects included. "Olympiad '84" seems to be an attempt to create a theme song for the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics (why?). Whatever the reason for it's inclusion here it proves to be a real treat, as is "Comin' To Getcha" which has a decent slab of funk groove complimenting the disco vocals. My personal favourite is "State Street Samba" which I'm embarrassed to say caused me to dance around the house earlier today. It's a glorious 7 minute long mix of disco, samba rhythms and rare groove cool.

If you are curious about the model used for the front cover it is the Playboy Playmate for February 1979, Lee Ann Michelle.

BRUTON BRH 25 - ULTRA VISION

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?5scrbu147eon1u8

Track 1 - Fire Power
Track 2 - Midnight Mover
Track 3 - Whizz Kids
Track 4 - Lemon Popsicle
Track 5 - Fun Pack
Track 6 - Hells Angels
Track 7 - Magazine
Track 8 - Push On
Track 9 - Dance Centre 1
Track 10 - Dance Centre 2
Track 11 - Flashing Lights
Track 12 - Source Of Energy
Track 13 - New Era
Track 14 - Ultra Vision
Track 15 - Go Ahead
Track 16 - Data
Track 17 - Circuits
Track 18 - Communications
Track 19 - Qualitones
Track 20 - Winning Edge

This Bruton is in the same mould as "BRH 19 Hit Pack" with countless synth pop treats providing much fun and foot tapping. If you can cope with a great deal of cheese then you will be rewarded with a collection of tunes that sound like that were designed specifically for mid 80's tv themes and soundtracks ("Hells Angels" being a prime example). The first half of the record is by Brian Wade while the rest is composed by Barry Upton. Upton's tracks are a little more progressive and experimental ("Circuits", "Qualitones") but the use of synths and drum machines is still in full swing. Just remember, you can't spell funky without fun!

ELECTRO KEYBOARD ORCHESTRA - SELF TITLED

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?z14t5zmqhrr5ns3

Track 1 - The Fire Dance
Track 2 - Mother Of The Future
Track 3 - Mayflower
Track 4 - The Iron Side
Track 5 - The Heated Point
Track 6 - The Soaring Seagull
Track 7 - Farewell, Onoda
Track 8 - The African Dawn

When you put 8 Japanese keyboard players in the same room you're pretty much assured of a good time and that's the case with this funky little collection. There is a good mix of exotica, funk and easy listening with the standout track being the super groovy "The Iron Side". This album may have been improved with a slightly heavier bass sound but the drumming and guitar work makes amends for the most part. The keyboards are the hero ofcourse, I'm not sure you ever hear all 8 of them going at once but there are some nice solos on show.

THE PSYCHEDELIC ALIENS - PSYCHO AFRICAN BEAT

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?o1i18gjsluemt3r

Track 1 - Biofonyobi Wo Atale
Track 2 - Hijacking
Track 3 - We're Laughing
Track 4 - Extraordinary Woman
Track 5 - Gbe Keke Wotaoc
Track 6 - Gbomei Adesai
Track 7 - Homowo
Track 8 - Okponmoni Tsitsi Emole

This is an interesting EP from The Psychedelic Aliens which combines Afro Beat with funk grooves that are reminiscent of those you might have found in the southern states of the U.S during the mid 1960's. It's a curious mix that takes the Afro genre in a different direction than most people will be used too but the important thing is that it works. Tracks like "Gbe Keke Wotaoc" and "Gbomei Adesai" are more straightforward Nigerian style funk with it's frenetic drumming and wicked organ lines. It's a fun record and the tracks are nice and tight, usually clocking in around the 3 minute mark. Give it a listen!

STRICTLY BREAKS VOL.2 - VARIOUS ARTISTS

http://www.mediafire.com/?2vn1cc64vjojn54

Track 1 - Summer Breeze / Main Ingredient
Track 2 - Adventures In The Land Of Music / Dynasty
Track 3 - My Jamaican Guy / Grace Jones
Track 4 - Enchanted Lady / Milt Jackson
Track 5 - Free Soul / John Klemmer
Track 6 - Unwind Yourself / Marva Whitney
Track 7 - The Mighty Quinn / Ramsey Lewis
Track 8 - EVA / Jean Jaques Perrey
Track 9 - Fun / Brick
Track 10 - Funky Worm / Ohio Players
Track 11 - Night Love / Jeff Lorber
Track 12 - Searching / Roy Ayers

Volume 2 of the Strictly Breaks series sticks to the same formula as Vol.1 with a pleasing selection of rare groove nuggets. The likes of Jean Jaques Perrey, The Ohio Players and Roy Ayers may have come up on your radar before but the less familiar artists provide plenty of quality aswell. I recognise "Unwind Yourself" from a sample that Z-Trip used during a live performance; I forget who has used "EVA" before (maybe Bentley Rhythm Ace?) and a portion of "Funky Worm" was used on "Soul President No.1" which appears on the "Playtime Vol.3" compilation. I'm sure these tracks and others have been sampled by numerous DJ's over the years. Thanks to the original uploader.

ALAN PARKER - JAWS 3D SOUNSTRACK

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?2cqrfuk6p254w1v

Track 1 - Jaws 3D Main Title
Track 2 - Kay And Mike's Love Theme
Track 3 - Panic At Sea World
Track 4 - Underwater Kingdom / Shark Chase Pt.1
Track 5 - Shark Chase Pt.2 / Dolphin Rescue
Track 6 - Saved By The Dolphin
Track 7 - The Shark's Gonna Hit Us!
Track 8 - It's Alive / Sea World Opening / Silver Bullet
Track 9 - Overman's Last Dive
Track 10 - Philip's Demise
Track 11 - Night Capture
Track 12 - Jaws 3D End Titles

Despite being a poor relative in the series, Jaws 3D was actually quite successful when it was released and almost grossed more money than Return Of The Jedi in 1983. Maybe composer John Williams was too busy with Star Wars to reprise the soundtrack duties he had on the original Jaws, it is also possible he didn't want to be associated with the relatively disdained format of 3D cinema. Whatever the reason, the job fell to Alan Parker and he ran with it.

The music is what you would expect from such a soundtrack - high, pulsing strings and dramatic changes in tempo. Slightly more peaceful moments are contained on "Underwater Kingdom / Shark Chase Pt.1" and the tense "Overman's Last Dive". There are some less than subtle nods towards the original Williams score that we all know so well, but for me it is hearing Alan Parker take charge of a full orchestra that provides the most joy.

KEITH PAPWORTH - METROPOLIS

Updated link here

Track 1 - City Limits
Track 2 - Round The Town
Track 3 - Morning Trip
Track 4 - Wheel Man
Track 5 - Shadow Hit
Track 6 - Hit Link 1
Track 7 - Hit Link 2
Track 8 - Hit Link 3
Track 9 - Hit Link 4
Track 10 - Hit Link 5
Track 11 - Early Rise
Track 12 - Night Raid
Track 13 - Metropolis
Track 14 - Underground
Track 15 - Heist
Track 16 - Border Exchange
Track 17 - Danger District
Track 18 - Running Hot
Track 19 - Watching Brief

This is another super album from the De Wolfe label with Keith Papworth being given the opportunity to flex his considerable musical muscle. The tracks swing between crime jazz and easy listening with a liberal use of cinematic strings, jazz drumming and some of the deep bass that I associate with Keith ("Wheel Man" being the best example). There's a typically eclectic mix of moods and styles on show which is fairly common for a De Wolfe record and it keeps the listener on their toes. Overall it's some top grade library music. Please note - Track 15 has some glitches.