This week, I broke one of my own rules: I bought records online. Fortunately, everything turned out fine. It wasn’t a major expenditure – I picked up three funky 45s (AKA 7-inches, for future reference) that were on sale. So, today we’re going to experiment with a format change. In the future, when I review my new acquisitions, this is basically how we’ll do it. Here we go!

Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings

I think these guys might be indirect proof the possibility of time travel. Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, off Daptone Records, are an absolute throwback to the best seventies soul-funk that ever was. The grooves are aggressive, deep, and shot through with that infectious joy known only as the FUNK. As you’ll see shortly, Sharon Jones is a unique vocal talent and a commanding stage presence. I absolutely love every track I’ve heard from them so far, and these two singles are no different.

”Genuine (parts 1 & 2)”

The Song

This track really cooks. The groove has a strange, asymmetrical syncopation that just works. I couldn’t help dancing when I put it on – and I didn’t want to help it either. In short, this might be the best $4 I ever spent.

”I Just Dropped In to See What Condition My Condition Is In”

The Song

Or is this the best $4 I ever spent? If you’re like me, you associate this song with Jeff Bridges in gold bowling shoes. Given my musical taste it’s no surprise that I would say this, but this cover is miles ahead of the original. I really love the backing vocals toward the end of this one.

Breakestra

This group comes to you courtesy of one of my favorite music labels: Ubiquity. Breakestra is a ten piece self-termed “funk orchestra” that’s been around since 1996. Their first few releases were mostly covers, but in 2005 they released an original LP called “Hit the Floor”. I advise you to pick it up, and then do exactly that.

”You Don’t Need a Dance/Recognize” (Limited Edition)

Side A

Side B

At some point soon I’m going to start running out of superlatives. This 7-inch is a limited edition single from the aforementioned LP. The A-side here is a real fast, hard groover that reminds me a bit of Sly & the Family Stone. The B-side is a slower, more introspective tune. Somehow, the two tracks go together perfectly. What a great record.

This one must be the best $5 I ever spent.

Cross-posted to Newsvine.com.

Read more articles in the “Diggin’ the Crates” series.

© 2008 Evan Mix for Listen In. Some rights reserved.

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