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This new release from Madrid-based label Vampisoul features 37 cuts of ‘Groovy Spanish Soul & Funk Samples’ from 1966 to 1976; the majority of the tracks are sung in Spanish, or by Spanish speakers in English.

The tracks demonstrate a side of Spanish culture that was unknown at a time when Spain was clasped by the grip of a seemingly endless dictatorship. Where soul had been igniting dance floor across the Atlantic since the early 1960s, Spain was not to hear its sounds until later in the decade when the funk explosion would bring the lyrics in favour of civil rights, hope and free love.

The compilation contains original tracks from Spanish artists (sung in English) such as ‘Laugh Laugh’ by Alberto Alguero and ‘I Will Pray’ by Conexión as well as covers translated and sung in Spanish such as a cover of The Spencer Davies Band’s ‘Keep on Running’ by Salvajes and an instrumental version of Aretha Franklin’s ‘Respect’.

But the real gems are those sung in Spanish, which shine with authenticity and portray the true spirit in which they were sung. Obviously, all heavily influenced by the legends of soul such as Otis Redding and the fathers of funk such as Isaac Hayes, this compilation is a must for the true fans of funk and soul, who wish to hear a delightful twist on an all too recognisable genre.

Link: www.vampisoul.com