Cool Hunting

This is one of the better future-soul compilations that's come out in awhile. Only the third (and first full-length) release from Berlin-based newcomer Inphusion, the limited edition CD includes the two singles released on the imprint as well as an unusually well-curated selection of independent electronic music from around the globe.

There are enough recognizable names on Phused to pique your curiosity, from DJ Spinna’s mellow but nevertheless neck-snapping remix of Roy Ayers’ “Holiday,” to the new classic Mark De Clive-Lowe and Bembe Segue UK soul tune “Heaven." But the real highlights are the people you may be hearing for the first time.

Standouts include French nu-jazzfunk bassist/producer Bruno Hovart, aka Patchworks, with a classy retro-boogie rendition of Cymande’s afro-funk classic “Brothers on the Slide.” Austrian neophyte Oracle’s instrumental electrofunk workout “Interdimensional”—a favorite on Benji B’s Deviation. And NYC’s own up-and-coming Spymusic supplies a groovy broken reworking of Champion Soul’s “Holdin’ On.”

If you are looking to let your soul horizons descend into the underground and across borders, this is a great primer. The limited run of 1,000 units is only available as an import for now. Order from the German Amazon or JPC or preview the whole CD on Inphusion’s website.

Also on Cool Hunting: DJ Spinna: Intergalactic Soul

by DJ Scribe