Jim Ford 'You Just-A' (Full Version)

Jim Ford 'You Just-A' (Full Version)

Sly Stone called Jim Ford "the funkiest white man I know." He penned songs for a host of artists including Bobby Womack and The Temptations and in 1969 released an album called 'Harlan County' which sold poorly on original release. The wider public probably weren't ready for the experimental blend of country, soul, funk and Appalachian elements but the record has since been hailed as one of the greatest albums you've never heard. Two more albums for Paramount and Capitol were never released until Bear Family Entertainment did the world a favour in 2008 and put them out, along with a CD release of the Harlan County album with additional out-takes and bonus material.

Tommy McLain 'Before I Grow Too Old'

Tommy McLain 'Before I Grow Too Old'

Strong birthday resolution song alert. Tommy McLain is a Louisiana legend and this cut features on the excellent compilation called 'Another Saturday Night' which serves as a good introductory primer to the swamp pop/cajun sound. Check out the amazing and beautifully shot documentary film 'Promised Land: A Swamp Pop Journey' directed by Matt Wilkinson. It tracks the formation of a swamp pop supergroup featuring McLain, C.C. Adcock, Warren Storm and other legends of the genre.

Bob Dylan 'All The Tired Horses' + 'Abandoned Love'

'All The Tired Horses'

'Abandoned Love'

Two for one deal on current Dylan favourites! 

El Gusano 'Work Your Hand To The Bone'

El Gusano 'Work Your Hand To The Bone'

Tex-Mex psych and soul instrumental with weird mimimoog inflections and a super laidback feel. El Gusano's concept album 'Fantasia Del Barrio' was botched together during a few cerveza and bolgnese sandwich-fuelled days in the mid-seventies and has just recently been re-released by Heavy Light Records.

Jackie Mittoo 'Groovy Spirit'

Jackie Mittoo 'Groovy Spirit'

The keyboard king of Jamaica steps into smooth instrumental territory with a backpack full of strings and rocksteady sandwiches.

Al Green 'I'm A Ram'

Al Green 'I'm A Ram'

With spring in the air, the fruits of the loins of countless rams now skipping merrily around the fields and the star sign of Aries coming about in fine style with the biggest full moon for 19 years the other night, this tune seems to fit quite snugly with the general vibes.  The Rev Green gets next to each and everybody with a chunk of warm and horny soul. Baaaa!

HAPPY PADDY'S DAY!