Bob James
Hands Down

Repress from highly sought after brazil album !Guilherme Coutinho started playing at the age of five and, at the age of seventeen, he was already part of "Os Mocorongos" and "Os Iguanos", both as an amateur. But he soon became a group leader, playing in several nightclubs in Belém (Pará), until he settled in the Paraense Assembly, where he lived for more than 15 years. He was a musician who played for high society, he was a businessman who had the best instruments, besides always making his own arrangement for the songs. His favorite formation was piano, bass, and drums, as well as a singer. But, for some time, he even used a recorder as playback to give greater sound texture.The first performance was at Pinheirense in Icoaraci. The 1970s were at the height of the clubs in Belém, such as the Tuna, Yacht Club and the Paraense Assembly.At the carnival, there was Guilherme at the head of his group, with rhythmists and a brass section, playing not only the greatest hits but supporting local composers. He was the musical director of Leila Pinheiro's first professional show, at Teatro da Paz. In his career, he released three albums: "Guilherme Coutinho and Curtição", "Busca-se" and "Guilherme Coutinho and Grupo Stalo".Guilherme's last two shows took place on Friday, August 19, 1983, at the Theatro da Paz, through the Pixinguinha Project, and at the old Gemini Blues nightclub. On the morning of Saturday, August 20, Guilherme Coutinho died of a heart attack."Guilherme Coutinho e o Grupo Stalo" was released on the ''Erla', an obscure Brazilian label, which curiously pressed only 7" singles, but this Guilherme Coutinho album is an exception. An LP that became one of the most sought after in Brazilian music. It was generating a cult around you for sound innovation, a kind of Lo-Fi Tropicalism

As time moves forward, it becomes increasingly clear that the need for emotional expression through artistry is more important than ever, especially in the wake of emerging AI technology that threatens to replace human creativity. Minus & MRDolly's new album, "Giant Stops," is a testament to the enduring power of art to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.Named in direct reference to arguably one of the greatest albums ever created, "Giant Steps" by John Coltrane, "Giant Stops" pays homage to the rich legacy of jazz while pushing the boundaries of the genre with a contemporary twist. The album seamlessly blends jazz, hip-hop, and electronic elements to create a unique sonic landscape that is both nostalgic and modern.For Minus & MRDolly, "Giant Stops" represents a new chapter in his evolution as a musician, showcasing his growth and commitment to pushing boundaries in his genre-bending style. Taking inspiration from the creative process of Makaya McCraven, the album features dynamic instrumentals backed by a live band, with Minus & MRDolly's signature lyricism and storytelling shining through both the instrumentals and the lended work of guest musician such as Meta_ or Luca Argel. By using this production method the album takes a bold stand for the importance of sampling as an art form hoping to encourage listeners to appreciate the rich history and evolution of hip hop and to recognize the essential role that sampling has played in shaping the genre.As a nod to his Portuguese roots, "Giant Stops" represents a deeper exploration of the artist's identity and a commitment to looking inward to find creative inspiration. With this album, Minus & MRDolly hopes to inspire others to embrace their own unique perspectives and use them to create art that connects with audiences on a deeply emotional level.In a world where technology threatens to replace human creativity, "Giant Stops" is a reminder that the power of art to connect with people on a fundamental level is enduring and will continue to shape our world for generations to come.

✺ Japanese RSD 2021 Exclusive ✺ Classic ’60s and ’70s Jazz drummingAkira Ishikawa, a drummer who led new jazz bands from the late 1960s to the 1970s.This work, which he released under the name of “Akira Ishikawa and Count Buffaloes”, incorporates various elements such as rock, funk, and afro brings experimental elements to jazz, and also serves as a backing for pop and popular songs, entertainment. A compilation album created with the motif of Okinawa by Ishikawa, who is a rare person who also has various elements.Kayo Ishu (child) and Time Five’s chorus add glamor to Japanese MFSB-like performances that incorporate disco beats.