Review: Wearing Shoes - In The Mist EP (Morris Audio)

New year! Time to wear some new dancing shoes with Morris Audio's 'In The Mist' EP.

With the ride that is the Chicago Loop on 'This Is Citi Beat' EP (see review HERE) (via Citi Beat) and gone Böhm with 'Country' (see review HERE), Wearing Shoes (aka Alfonso Boltone) who has appeared on Closer To Truth, Hustler Trax, Apparel and recently Yore Records (the most recent home of ReKab who passed last year, RIP) starts this year with a 3-tracker EP.

Whilst the inspiration might be in the mists, it's definitely quite a bit dreamy/elsewhere, like the piano focused 'Love Is Real' before the jazz organ and soulful vocals make it a winner.  An you might guess where 'Under The Strobes' is going from the title and with its vocal hook and loop, it just gets bigger like an accelerating train.

If 'Love Is Real' is the addictive one, the title track is the one that's more likely to hit the dancefloor/radio waves first in what will be another big year for Alfronso and Morris Audio.

BUY LINK: https://morrisaudio.bandcamp.com/

Artist: Wearing Shoes

Title: In The Mist EP
Release date: 16th January, 2026
Label :Morris Audio 
Catalog Number: MA135
Format: Digital / Bandcamp

Review: Alexander IV - Touch of Gold / All I Have to Say (Sonar Kollektiv)

Alexander IV returns!  No, not that one, the pseudonym of eclectic Dutch producer, multi-instrumentalist, and beat-maker Joris Feiertag. 

Those with long memories will recall Mr. Scruff 'discovering' Moondog's song 'Lament I, 'Bird's Lament' and re-branded it as 'Get A Move On' [1999].  Feiertag's 'All I Have To Say' gives in another dusting down as "a smoky, late-night instrumental that fuses dusty jazz textures with Dilla-inspired swing. Sitting somewhere between Roy Hargrove and J Dilla in a seedy Soho basement, it’s a raw, reflective track that continues the album’s jazz and hip-hop conversation". 

Those for a taste of this sort of thing; old Scruff, Kruder & Dorfmeister, SAULT and perhaps to a lesser degree, upstarts leike Emile & The Education - Lamad (see review HERE) or indeed as Joris' other alter-ego Feiertag (Ed. isn't that just himself? - See reviw HERE) you can see why the new album is called 'Alchemist' (out early 2026).

The album includes the soulful debut single, 'This Won’t Do' featuring Cézanne and the track 'Touch of Gold' that sets the tone for the album.  With it's "cinematic jazz sample, a head-fake of an intro, and a signature beat flip that balances elegance with grit" Joris says, “I absolutely loved making this track and it came together quickly and naturally”,

So expect lots more alchemy with the album as this is going to be so "Hoxton to Berlin to We Jazz" as more Mr.Scruff, more Gilles Peterson, more Will Sumsuch and even more Gerry Hectic!

BUY LINK: https://sonarkollektiv.lnk.to/Alchemist

Artist: Alexander IV

Title: Touch of Gold / All I Have to Say 

Release date: 15th January, 2026

Label : Sonar Kollektiv

Catalog Number : SK452/3 D

Format: Digital / Bandcamp

Review: Number - Pollinate (Ramrock Red Records)

When Jo Wallace (head honcho at Ramrock, F*CLR and many other enterprises) broke news of a 'Listening Party' for the Numbers' ten track album, 'Pollinate' she confidently said, "You can thank me later", how right was she then?

Curiously enough, Mrs Ramrock was spot on as ever having found a hybrid 'ACR, Talking Heads, P-Funk' that fits the bill from the opener, 'Amber' to the end, 'Rebel Corner' with a smidgen of dub.

Numbers are the duo of Ali Friend (double bass) and (drums) that were two thirds of Red Snapper who were doing this sort of thing (downtempo, dubby trip hop, breaks, acid jazz and more) 30 years ago on WARP and being remixed by Weatherall's Sabres Of Paradise and hanging out (professionally) with Beth Orton!

So whilst they have loads of history, 'Pollinate' is more than just seeds of a flowering progress .  'Discoid' has that, you'd never guess, disco groove and old skool vocoder that seems to be trendy once more whilst 'Let's Stamp On It' is 2026/ACR/Chic (they're a couple of charmers).

It's not all bass and boogie as we do enter a new wave-Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark/Tears For Fears(-ish) via 'Smoke In The Skies' teritory.  And the tracks are all quite punchy pop tune length but 'Stone Chat' stands out at over 5 mins and instrumental with lots of squelchy electronics which they say is, "Lead by guitars this is a nod to classic jazz-funk workouts".

A they don't mind an experiment with the beautiful 'Window Of Opportunity' (bowed bass and moog-Taurus) that falls between Delia Derbyshire and George Martin; it's brilliant!  

And for fans of London based art rockers 'Modern Nature', guitarist Tara Cunningham guests here on a plucky jam 'Bath Vaults'.  If you ever wondered what Arthur Russell (thank you Mr Kedros) might be doing with the Durutti Column (thank you Mikey McMikestar) in dub, check 'Grin And Wave' again with extra guitar from Ms Cunningham.

Fans of 'Le Boucle Noveau' EP from last year (see review HERE) will get this straight away and 'Amber' sounds special on every repeat listen. And there's even an A Certain Ratio remix of 'Amber' available - a sort of ACR double up.

PS. Don't forget to thank Ms.Wallace next time you see her.

Buy Link / Pre-Order: RRRLP017 - Number - Pollinate | Number | Ramrock

Artist: Number

Title: Pollinate
Release date: 15th January, 2026
Label: Ramrock Red Records
Cat. No: RRRLP17
Format: Bandcamp / Digital

Review: Shaé Universe - Journey To The Sun (Independent)

Fresh from performances on NPR's legendary Tiny Desk and Colors (not to mention a MOBO nomination in the UK), rising R&B / Soul star Shaé Univers e offers up a new single 'Journey To The Sun' featuring a sublime verse from Mississippi R&B artist Ariel J. 

At this time of year, we often see talk about issues of mental health, both in terms of the negitative and the positive in overcoming it - or just being there for your fellow human.  It just happens some folks are equiped to make a positive "soulful, honest track" like Shae Universe who is on a 'Journey To The Sun'.

"Shae’s jazzy approach to this deeply reflective song allows the space for every word to be entirely felt, whilst the intricate instrumentation perfectly compliments her captivating voice. Ariel J. feels like the perfect addition to the track with her witty, authentic punchlines that further emphasise the overarching messages of the song - maintaining hope and giving yourself grace whilst doing so".  

When asked about her sentiments on the song Shae says: “I’m usually quite vulnerable in my songs but somehow this feels like one of my most vulnerable songs yet. Sometimes I look around at the world just continuing on whilst I feel all these intense feelings and wonder if it’s only me that feels them. Deep down I know it’s not and I believe this song perfectly captures the alienating yet shared human experience of what can feel like suffering in silence. Special thanks to Ariel J. too for embellishing this track in the most special, uplifting way. My wish is that this song encourages people to approach 2026 and beyond with a hopeful heart, trusting that everything is always okay eventually.”

2006 might start at the Comedy Store, but i don't think that's where it will end!

BUY LINK / PRE-ORDER: (The Comedy Store, London. Saturday 7 March 2026): http://see.tickets/journeyshae

Artist: Shaé Universe

Title: Journey To The Sun

Release date: 16th January, 2026

Label: -

Catalog Number: TBC

Format: Digital

Review: Ilhan Ersahin's Istanbul Sessions - Mahalle (Nublu Records)

Ilhan Ersahin's Istanbul Sessions' 'Mahalle' is the latest release on New York’s legendary Nublu Records and get it now so you don't miss the boat/ferry!

Ever since the single, 'Galata' / 'Karaköy' (see review HERE) came out and the 'Yeditepe' / 'Asmalı' follow-up (see review HERE), the YATM office has been excited for Ilhan Ersahin's Istanbul Sessions album; especially after the label released the avant-garde JMMR's 'Resistance Is Fertile' (see review HERE).

So what's the new with the Swedish born-Turkish heritage-NYC living saxophonist-club owner Ilhan on 'Mahalle'?; the "sonic exploration of Istanbul's diverse neighborhoods where tradition meets innovation and the ancient pulse of the city merges with contemporary rhythms".

Well, check this 'neighbourhood' where the jazz-rock-fusion of Acoustic Ladyland is merged with Thundercat funk on 'Asmali' which is advanced jazz funk on anyone's menu.  And talking cross-genre influences, is that some sophisticated punk a la Joy Division on 'Yeditepe' with some insane percussion: there's a lot going on here: try the 70s cinematic jazz-funker 'Haliç' or the car chase 'Tünel'.

If you're like Ilhan, who has jammed with The Red Hot Chili Peppers in São Paulo or played with Bugge Wesseltoft in the Tokoyo Blue Note club (Ed. note, this year marks the 25th anniversay of Wesseltoft's album 'New Conception Of Jazz: Moving' so watch out for more on this) along with being emerced in the traditons of Turkish/Mediterean music via Sweden, will get how this sax player stands out with a homage Istanbul and post-Weather Report all at the same time.

The core team was formed in 2009 (and at that time featured Erik Truffaz on trumpet who popped up HERE a couple of years ago) and features bassist/co-producer Alp Ersönmez who is a joint-leader much of the time - especially on 'Karaköy' with echoes of Andy Bey/Pharoah Sanders/Jazz Chronicles), drummer Turgut Alp Bekoglu and percussionist Izzet Kizil.

So there's definitely spiritual incarnations with Ersahin's sax you're equally likely to be confronted by rock band influences (like on 'Odakule') which might irk some but were on the coat tails of jazz-rock here (Ed. Jazz Sabbath anyone?) whilst the Batov elements would prefer more manic pulsing 'Athos' skat lullaby of the closing track 'Tersane'.

Going to be a favourite album throughout the year as it's going to be tough to say that there's a better one - makes you wanna join a band.

BUY LINK / PRE-ORDER (): https://ffm.to/mahalle

Artist: Ilhan Ersahin's Istanbul Sessions

Title:  Mahalle      
Release date: 16th January, 2026
Label : Nublu Records
Catalog Number: NUB-TBC
Format:  Vinyl / Digital / Bandcamp

Review: Diogo Strausz - Dance Para Se Salvar (Favorite Recordings)

Favorite Recordings? You bet they are as we get ready for a year of Brazilian frenzy with Diogo Strausz and his new album 'Dance Para Se Salvar': World Cup and all that you know! 

You may recognise the name Diogo Strausz

from his associaton with Razor-N-Tape, particularly the with the track 'Gravity' featuring Brandon Markell Holmes (he of 'Fuller' and much more - see review HERE) and the 'Caramba' EP (see review HERE) but this new 8-track album sees a move to the Paris based label Favorite Recordings.    

But this Brazilian multi-instrumentalist exile in has made a name for himself having produced Gal Costa and Marília Mendonça plus having other productions remixed by the likes Yuksek (he of Partyfine - see review of their latest album HERE) and Ron Trent (he of 'Lift Off' - see review HERE)

The combination of Diogo Strausz and Favorite is ideal for a Disco-Funk album with the additon of 70/80s "that celebrates both the vibrant dance culture and the rich musical heritage of Brazil".

And just to prove it, with analog spirit, the album was crafted using vintage studio gear, fans of Gilles Peterson will immediately be drawn to the "explosive track",  'Ele é Artista' that features Bruno “Patchworks” Hovart (Voilaaa, Mr. President, João Selva, Uptown Funk Empire).  And whilst there might be a hint of 'For Your Love' a la Brasil about it, this is not a one track album  and there's elements of Azymuth, Deodato and a Lincoln Olivetti 'Hot Parade' where disco-jazz-funk meets MPB.

It's a shame the two shortest tracks, 'Carnaval de Gringo' and 'Viver, Lutar, Reerguer' are not longer as there's potential for full on bongo madness so it's great that 'Frevo Mulher' gets the full on synth HST space ship treatment; jazzdancers new favourite (no pun etc). But you ain't done yet as the disco ball spins so you 'Dance To Save Your Soul' (sung by the ladies in English this on this one) and the bonus track, 'Popotão Grandão' (EWF meets disco-chic).

Diogo Strausz has a made a name for himself as a master blender of old Brazilian soul with contemporaries influences like Bala Desejo (see review HERE), Rubel (see review HERE) in a new 'revival' that Favorite Recordings have been leading on the dance floor for many a year now, 'Dance Para Se Salvar' being a perfect match.

BUY LINK / PRE-ORDER (Vinyl): https://favoriterecordings.bandcamp.com/album/dance-para-se-salvar

Artist: Diogo Strausz

Title: Dance Para Se Salvar

Release date: 16th January, 2026

Label : Favorite Recordings

Catalog Number :TBC

Format: Vinyl LP Digital / Bandcamp

Review: Visions of Light - Blue Monday (Lunes Azul) (NuNorthern Soul)

For all of New Order's achievements, bearing in mind that lead singer / guitarist Bernard Sumner has just turned 70, (born January 4th, 1956, Crumpsall, North Manchester), their legacy for most folks will be their 'throw away' 80s dance track, 'Blue Monday' so is their a place for this new version?

 

You bet there is as NuNorthern Soul's boss Phil Cooper starts the new year with this enlightened cover version by Visions Of Light, they, you'll recall being the trio of Simon Sheldon, Muzka and Dan Dub Lounge that brought us the album 'The Mandala Vortex' last year to soundtrack the summer (see review HERE).

'Blue Monday (Lunes Azul)' is a mesmeric instrumental stroll in the sand that's going to turn heads at any time of the year; even if you're over/under 70 years old.

As its such a classic track, I can remember first hearing at a beach party in Brighton and it just stopped the beach, and this Azul version will do the same; lets start the year as we mean to go on!

BUY LINK: Blue Monday (Lunes Azul) | Visions-of-Light

 

 

Artist: Visions of Light

Title: TBlue Monday (Lunes Azul) 

Release date: 19th January, 2026
Label : NuNorthernSoul
Catalog Number : TBC
Format:  Digital / Bandcamp 

Review: VA - Verve // Remixed Holiday (Verve Records)

When I called for the return of Verve//Remixed Christmas, I never thought it'd actually happen - but it has!  With Ella and Nina on the originals you're on a winner to start with but Tourists, Ginton and Two Another on the remix the subtle approach of all concerned is much to be admired.

The 'original' album, a compilaion fom 2008 produced by Dahlia Ambach Caplin & Todd C. Roberts, was indeed in 2 volumes, the original artists version of eleven tracks featuring he jazz greats of Count Basie, Louie Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Shirley Horn, Jimmy Smith etc and their respective Christmas hits.   Whilst the update for "younger ears" were the best of remix experts of the day including Christian Prommer, FINK, The Real Tuesday Weld, YesKing, The Orb, Oh No and more.

Interesting to note that the cover artwork features tthe traditioal sleigh updated as a snow mobile with US and GB flags as a Winterland nu-mod scooterist!  The 2025 version goes in for acoustic piano with analog synths and speakers; I suspect they might have thought about a pictorial depiction of ChatGPT for 2025 but that's quite a stretch.

However, the return of this "vibrant reimagining of classic holiday tracks from Verve Records’ legendary catalog features five brand new remixes from a cutting-edge lineup of DJs and producers including Ginton, Tourist, and Two Another" as they fuse "modern electronic textures and grooves with jazz, soul, and holiday nostalgia".

This release offers a renewed celebration of the season—where vintage vocals meet forward-thinking production. From cozy fireside vibes to festive dance-floor energy, Verve // Remixed Holiday bridges generations of sound and spirit.

BUY LINK / PRE-ORDER: Various Artists - Verve // Remixed Holiday

Artist: Various

Title: Verve // Remixed Holiday

Release date: 19th December, 2025

Label : Favorite Recordings

Catalog Number : WP3643

Format: Digital / Bandcamp

Reveiw: Richard Earnshaw & Sabrina Chyld - Better For Me (Artworx)

Debut release on Artworx, Richard Earnshaw teams up with Sabrina Chyld as it's better for them to see the beauty inside of them with 'Better For Me'.

It's almost 2 years to the day that we last saw Richard Earnshaw at YATM with remixes of Gavin Holligan's 'When Boys Become Men' (see review HERE) as this time, we get a female point of view with 'Better For Me'.  

We know Ms. Chyld from her work with Abel on Atjazz (see review HERE), Julian Gomes on the album 'Bruno & The Birds' (see review HERE) and Peacey's 'Play It By Ear' (see review HERE) whilst Earnshaw has worked with loads of people over the years.

This is just a taster.from a forthcoming EP series by Earnshaw entitled 'Different Spaces' and he's just the man to find 'em.when it comes to soulful house gems.

BUY LINK / PRE-ORDER: https://lnk.to/betterforme

5 Magazine · Premiere: Richard Earnshaw & Sabrina Chyld - Better For Me (Original Mix) [Artworx]

Artist: Richard Earnshaw & Sabrina Chyld

Title: Better For Me

Release date: 19th December, 2025

Label : Artworx

Catalog Number : ATWX001

Format: Digital / Bandcamp 

Review: Kerrier Collective ft. Polly Myrick - Somatic Tick (BiG AL Remix, Studio & DJ Version) (Colour and Pitch)

Colour & Pitch have a new release with Kerrier Collective teaming up with Polly Myrick as they get to grips with 'Somatic Tick' on the exciting EP that's coming out in three versions including a Big Al remix!

We previously had Kerrier Collective & wolf peaches taking on 'Rotten Peaches EP (see review HERE) and you'll recall Kerrier Collective from a couple of years ago, 'Life Wants To Live' (see review HERE) but this is them at an angular dancefloor where indie meets "violins" and synths with 'Somatic Tick' elegance provided by Ms. Myrick's lyrics and vocals that could be Everything But The Girl house.

We're told that BiG AL's remix is "in a typically rolling and hypnotic reworking of 'Somatic Tick', showing love for the original while adding subtle flourishes all his own", and it's good that it's still includes some of the original's glitchy elements.

And now you've got you're head around this, the original studio version is raw and smooth all at the same time; love the guitar stabs which compete  with the horns and Myrick for attention.

Be ahead of the cool kids on the dancerfloor with this one as already had its first play on Sumuch's Colour & Pitch November Mix (see link below). 

BUY LINK /PRE-ORDER: https://kerriercollective.bandcamp.com/album/somatic-tick-ft-polly-meyrick

Colour and Pitch · Colour and Pitch Sessions - November 2025

Artist: Kerrier Collective 

Title: Somatic Tick EP

Release date: 19th December, 2025

Label:  Colour and Pitch

Catalog Number: CAP096

Format: Digital / Bandcamp