Funky The Message

Massive 10 CD boxset celebrating the legacy of the Philadelphia International label and the unforgettable music released from the early '70s up through the early '80s. Philadelphia International expert Ralph Tee compiled this boxset for the label following his previous ground-breaking 14 x vinyl LP box set in 1986. This time, Ralph has the added benefit of a further 25 years of experience studying the Philadelphia International operation and a lot more time to play with: almost 800 minutes or over 131/2 hours of pure quality music from one of the greatest labels of all time. Also included within the package will be a 60 page full-size booklet containing full sleeve notes and track details from Ralph Tee, which will also include a number of archive photos and key album scans. Harmless.

The Epic is saxophonist Kamasi Washington's aptly titled, triple-length, 172-minute debut album for Brainfeeder. He is a veteran of L.A.'s music scene and has played with Gerald Wilson, Harvey Mason, Flying Lotus, and Kendrick Lamar (his horn is prominently featured on To Pimp a Butterfly), to name but a few. Most of his bandmates have played together since high school, and it shows. There are two drummers (including Ronald Bruner), two bassists (including Stephen "Thundercat" Bruner on electric), two keyboardists, trumpet, trombone, and vocals (Patrice Quinn). In various settings, they are supported by a string orchestra and full choir conducted by Miguel Atwood-Ferguson. Washington composed 13 of these 17 tunes; he also meticulously arranged and produced them. At just over six to nearly 15 minutes, the jams leave room for engaged improvisation. The Epic is based on a concept, though it's unnecessary to grasp in order to enjoy. The music reflects many inspirations – John Coltrane, Horace Tapscott's Pan-African People's Arkestra, Azar Lawrence's Prestige period, Donald Byrd's and Eddie Gale's jazz and choir explorations, Pharoah Sanders' pan global experiments, Afro-Latin jazz, spiritual soul, and DJ culture.