Soulive - Live (2003)

Boston-based Psychedelic Funk trio Soulive was formed in 1998 by brothers Neal and Alan Evans as well as funk guitarist Eric Krasno. While Alan's drumming is often very hip-hop oriented, Neal Evans' spacy hammond organ sounds like something off of a 70's Herbie Hacock record. Krasno plays funky jazz guitar solos in the mellow style of such greats as George Benson or Grant Green. The melange of these very distinct playing techniques leads to a rare and exciting blend of psychedelic jazz-funk. This is the band's 2003 live recording, which perfectly captures the drive and groove of a Soulive concert.

1.) Aladdin

2.) El Ron

3.) Solid

4.) First Street

5.) Shaheed

6.) Dig

7.) One in Seven

8.) Lenny

9.) Turn it Out

The Budos Band - III (2010)

Staten Island-based 11-piece ensemble Budos Band first met in 2004 during jamsessions in Brooklyn, organized by Afro-Funk legends Antibalas. The lineup of the group is constantly changing, including various drummers and trumpet players, as well as a wide range of guest musicians. On "III", they fuse Afro-Jazz and pulsating Deep Funk, with a strong emphasis on the wind section as well as improvisation. The vibe of their music is generally very dark and psychedelic, with most of their tracks being gloomy jams rather than songs. Altogether, "III" is a fascinating and hypnotic creative effort, reminiscent of 60's/70's Spaghetti Western and Blaxploitation soundtracks.  

1.) Rite of the Ancients

2.) Black Venom

3.) River Serpentine

4.) Unbroken, Unshaven

5.) Nature's Wrath

6.) Golden Dunes

7.) Budos Dirge

8.) Raja Haje

9.) Crimson Skies

10.) Mark of the Unnamed

11.) Reppirt Yad