Funkier Sounds 29th March 2024

Hey, long time no speak. I’m not necessarily going to keep doing these newsletters every 2 weeks as it’s quite a lot of work. My plan is to maybe switch to about every 4 weeks and just hit you up whenever I’ve got a free download for you - like today! 

This week...

• Keep this free download on the down low

• Even Funkier visits Cafe 1001

• Disco Waltons Sunday Service

• Brixton Radio needs our help!

• Gem of the Week

Keep this free download on the down low

Thanks to a showstopper of a computer drama caused by a dead mac logic board I almost wasn't able to get a new freebie done in time… But I got it sorted with just enough time to throw this mashup together. One that I've been meaning to do for a while actually - Creep by TLC over a very funky track by Bibio called S.O.L. that I stumbled across a while back. Considering I did this in a couple of days it's actually not bad, and as usual it's all yours, all free!

Even Funkier visits Cafe 1001

A couple of weeks back I had the immense pleasure of heading up to Cafe 1001 just off Brick Lane to visit their legendary booth and have a go on their stunning setup. That rotary mixer! 😍 My set was recorded as part of their Radio 1001 series and is now on YouTube, so tune in to watch me… 

• Spin an hour of sunny African vibes, jazzy house and rare disco gems

• Have way too much fun with the isolators on the mixer

• Badly mess up a mix by forgetting to press a button 

• Have to almost run between the very far apart CDJs to gradually nudge up the tempo

Disco Waltons Sunday Service

I’m part of a motley crew who for some reason self-identify as The Disco Waltons, and we’ve had a show on NDC Radio every Sunday night for ages now. A couple of weeks back it was my turn to host, and it was my pleasure to bring you a storming guest mix from Bulgarian DJ and producer Groovemasta… who was an early guest on my own radio show way back in 2019 and is still going strong. My hour went all the way through the gears, kicking off sub-100 BPM with hip hop vibes before cranking things up considerably. Due to my computer fail we’ve only got the backup recording I luckily made, which (un)fortunately has no talking from me!

Brixton Radio needs our help!

Something important now folks - the excellent community radio station Brixton Radio needs your help! The station has been a force for good since lockdown, championing up and coming DJs and has become a vital part of South London’s music scene. But times are tough, costs are rising, and the station is struggling to stay afloat and is at risk of imminent closure - boo! They’ve launched a fundraiser, and I want to help spread the word as they’re only down the road from me and I’d hate to see them disappear forever. If you wanted to make a small donation like I have, or even just help spread the word, they would hugely appreciate it.

Gem of the Week

Another slice of disco magic from the turn of the 80s, this time I’m remembering Take Me To The Bridge by Vera. One of those half forgotten but essential nuggets that’s oozing with emotion - all funky basslines and wonderful vocals. One of those tracks that’s joyful but somehow tinged with a little bit of sadness - the perfect set closer.

I’ll catch you soon - be happy.

Tom xx