Since 2003, Madrid's Vampisoul Records has been a label to treasure for all those in search of the cool. The vibrant Spanish label has developed a colorful roster of eclectic music, unearthing once-lost Peruvian psych, Brazilian rock, Harlem boogaloo, Detroit soul, Afrobeat, lounge, salsa and much, much more. Releases are enhanced by deluxe, stylish packaging -- on both CD and vinyl formats -- offering extensive liner notes and rare photos. Vampisoul remains absolutely essential for soul, funk and rare groove fans in search of more of the old gold.
|
|
|
viewing 1 To 25 of 409 items
Next >>
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7"
|
|
VAMPI 45117EP
|
$15.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 1/23/2026
Iquitos, one of Peru's most remote cities and the capital of its Amazon region, was the epicenter of the psychedelic cumbia movement. Groups like Los Playboys belong to that mysterious category of almost-forgotten bands. On Ranil's label, Producciones Llerena, they released a superb single -- now reissued here with their track "Play Boy," an instrumental bursting with all the essential ingredients of psychedelic cumbia. Vampisoul complete this single with another great band from Iquitos: Los Roger's. Their magnificent "Descarga Rogers," never before available on 45, is the opening track of their only album and dives deep into Cuban-influenced sounds, where the guitar shares the spotlight with powerful percussion and vocals.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 340LP
|
$28.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 1/23/2026
During the sixties, especially the second half, Bobby Marín was an up-and-coming young Nuyorican who was responsible, along with his brother Richard, for producing, writing, or coordinating recordings by Louie Ramírez, Machito, The Nitty Gritty, Willie Rosario, Joe Cuba, Johnny Zamot, Kako, and Azuquita, Charlie Palmieri, and others. Many of these artists were caught up in the ongoing boogaloo movement. So, it was not a surprise when Ismael Maisonave -- an unsung hero of Latin music and owner of Mary Lou Records -- approached Bobby with the idea of reissuing a Raphie Martínez album as a budget LP under a different name, resulting in La Cucaracha Brass. The songs selected for this compilation represent a point in time when the world was getting ready for an incipient monster called salsa, which would take over for years to come. The LP includes descargas, guaguancós, guarachas, as well as the declining boogaloo. It is a collection of recordings by different artists and was named Cucaracha Brass because at that time the group Tijuana Brass was very popular. Most of the songs were taken (six out of eight, presumably) from the Raphie Martínez and the National Combo LP Cool Man (Mary Lou 1002). However, there are noticeable differences between the two albums. "Latin Power" is an explosive instrumental guaracha and descarga, where the trumpet, congas, and timbales deliver powerful solos. "Takin' Over" -- an instrumental boogaloo -- appears as "We Are Taking Over" on Raphie Martínez's album (with a faster tempo and featuring a background voice). "Hey Mama," a boogaloo sung by Bobby Marín, is titled "Do It All Over" on Martínez's recording, featuring a different singer, different lyrics, and a different tempo. As well as the edited versions of tracks taken from Martínez's album, this album comprises songs taken from other Mary Lou Records releases such as Quique Rosa y La Sabrosa Orchestra (Mary Lou 1020).
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
2LP
|
|
VAMPI 341LP
|
$37.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 1/23/2026
The historical origins of cumbia are nebulous and imprecise. The mythology surrounding it suggests an ancient past when Amerindian, African and European musical sounds were mixed together. After digging deep into the overwhelming archives of Discos Fuentes, Codiscos and Discos MAG in previous volumes, this fourth instalment in the series Cumbia Cumbia Cumbia!!! comprises 28 Colombian cumbia bangers for the dance floor from the deep vaults of Discos Tropical, all of them originally released between 1960 and 1984. Discos Tropical was a Barranquilla-based label founded in the mid-1940s by Luis Emilio Fortou Pereira, a visionary who helped define Colombian dancing habits and tastes from the previous century. Until the late '50s, most cumbias were orchestral-based. However, even though formats and styles diversified from the following decade onward, these highly popular big bands spectacularly defined the sound of Discos Tropical and livened up the most cosmopolitan dances in the major coastal cities. After the mid-'60s, the big bands gradually fell into decline, but the popular demand for tropical music did not. Facing this situation, the major record companies created smaller-format groups with one particular feature: they mixed accordion music with brass bands. This new volume of Cumbia Cumbia Cumbia!!! combines well-known classics and rarities that are difficult to find in their original formats. An invitation to enjoy and be amazed, above and beyond ethnographic and academic concerns. Featuring Carlos Haayen Y Su Combo, Bovea Y Sus Vallenatos, Álvaro Cárdenas Y Su Conjunto, Carlos Román Y Sus Estrellas, Luis Enrique Martínez Y Su Conjunto, Pello Torres Y Sus Diablos Del Ritmo, Banda 20 De Julio De Repelón, Andrés Landero Y Su Conjunto, Cumbia Mochila, Combo Maravilla, A.M. Camacho Y Cano, Eliceo García Y El Conjunto Palma Africana, Wasamaye African Rock, Conjunto Maravilla De Palo Alto, Manuel Villanueva Y Su Orquesta, Manuel Caraballo Y Su Conjunto, Pedro Salcedo Y Su Combo, Los Tiburones, Cumbia Bolivariana, Los Curramberos De Guayabal, Juan Polo Valencia, Lucho Better Y Su Orquesta, Florentino Montero Y Su Conjunto, Joe Montes Y Su Orquesta, Tere García Con Ramón Ropaín Y El Trío Fantasía, Los Indios Selectos Con Alberto Pacheco Y Su Acordeón, Rufo Garrido Y Su Orquesta, and Mincho Anaya Y Su Combo Moderno.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 339LP
|
$30.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 1/16/2026
Originally released in 1972, Toni Tornado's self-titled debut is a landmark in Brazilian soul and funk -- a gritty, groovy record that helped define the sound of the Black Rio movement. Blending deep soul, psychedelic funk, and bold orchestration, this album channels the revolutionary energy of James Brown with the tropical swagger of Rio's streets. From the urgent rhythms of "Torniente" to the undeniable strut of "Mané Beleza" and "Tornado," Toni's music pulses with a fierce sense of pride and liberation. It's the sound of a new cultural identity taking shape -- where African-American soul met Afro-Brazilian reality. Often compared to the legendary Tim Maia, Tornado brought his own explosive edge to Brazil's growing soul scene. By the 1970s, other Brazilian musicians, such as Banda Black Rio, Cassiano, Gerson King Combo, Jorge Ben, and Gilberto Gil, began making soul records. DJs started throwing soul-only parties. Toni Tornado's voice carries grit and passion, his grooves hit hard, and his message is crystal clear -- Black is beautiful, and the funk is real. Back on vinyl for a new generation, this reissue is more than a collector's gem -- it's a time capsule from an era when music moved bodies and minds. Essential listening for fans of vintage soul, global funk, and revolutionary sounds. Reissue on 180g vinyl.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 338LP
|
$30.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 1/16/2026
Before he turned 20, Lô Borges released one of the most captivating albums to come out of Brazil's rich musical landscape -- a record that somehow flew under the radar at the time but has since become a cult favorite for listeners around the world. Recorded in the same whirlwind year as the legendary Clube da Esquina -- the groundbreaking collaboration with Milton Nascimento and Beto Guedes -- this self-titled solo debut finds Lô Borges in full creative flight. Pressured by Odeon Records to deliver a solo project, Borges responded with a burst of youthful brilliance, sometimes writing a song in the morning and laying it down in the studio that very night. The result? An album that's spontaneous, heartfelt, and sonically stunning. From the shimmering guitars of "Você Fica Melhor Assim" to the dreamy melodies of "Canção Postal" and the jazz-infused groove of "Calibre," the album blends Brazilian popular music with rock, soul, and subtle psychedelic touches. It's got the intimate spirit of a bedroom recording, but with the musical sophistication of legends -- with collaborators like Toninho Horta, Tenorio Jr., Nelson Angelo, and of course, Beto Guedes helping bring Borges' vision to life. Fans of Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, or early Nascimento will feel right at home here -- but Lô Borges brings his own voice, at once tender and electrifying, to every track. The guitars are fuzzy, the harmonies rich, and the songwriting nothing short of magical. Though it didn't make a splash in 1972, Lô Borges has only grown in stature over the years. It's the kind of album you discover once, then return to again and again -- a timeless treasure from a young artist who helped redefine Brazilian music from the ground up. If you're into warm, soulful songwriting with a touch of experimental edge, this record is waiting for you. Give it a listen -- and see why Lô Borges is considered one of Brazil's most underrated masterpieces. Reissue on 180g vinyl.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 335LP
|
$30.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 12/12/2025
Originally released in 1972 on the Odeon label, Quarteto Em Cy stands as a high-water mark in the group's prolific discography -- and a hidden gem for collectors of Brazilian vinyl. Known for their intricate vocal harmonies and deep roots in the bossa nova movement, the quartet ventures into post-bossa territory here, where sophistication meets groove in all the right ways. Arrangements by Edu Lobo and Luiz Eça (of Tamba Trio) lend the album a richly layered sound -- elegant, jazzy, and emotionally resonant -- while the group's harmonies remain as mesmerizing as ever. It's a masterclass in vocal interplay and tasteful orchestration, with an unmistakable Brazilian soul running through every track. Highlights include their stunning interpretation of Milton Nascimento's "Tudo Que Você Podia Ser," along with deep cuts like "Quando o Carnaval Chegar," "Canto de Obá," and "Cantoria." These recordings capture a moment when the group, already respected collaborators of Vinícius de Moraes, Jobim, and Chico Buarque, hit a new creative stride. Long out of print and often cited as their finest work, this self-titled LP has become a sought-after piece among collectors of MPB, bossa, and '70s harmony pop. For those drawn to groups like The Free Design or The Mamas & The Papas -- but with a distinctly Brazilian elegance -- this album offers a rare and rewarding listen. Reissue on 180g vinyl.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 337LP
|
$30.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 12/12/2025
Released in 1967, Jazz Raga is more than just an album -- it's a fearless leap into uncharted musical territory. Gábor Szabó, the Hungarian jazz guitarist known for his boundary-pushing style, delivers one of the most captivating records of his career with this genre - masterpiece. Blending jazz, rock, psychedelic folk, and Eastern influences -- with sitar-laced melodies and Latin-infused rhythms courtesy of legendary funky drummer Bernard Purdie -- Jazz Raga defies categorization. It's a hypnotic fusion where European tradition meets the counterculture spirit of the '60s, all woven together by Szabó's unmistakable guitar tone. From the dreamy groove of "Walking On Nails" to the swirling mysticism of "Mizrab," and his hauntingly original take on the Rolling Stones' "Paint It Black," Szabó creates a sonic landscape that is both daring and deeply soulful. His playing here is electric -- full of offbeat chords, flowing improvisations, and a voice all his own. Decades later, Jazz Raga still stands as a landmark of creative freedom and global influence -- a must-hear for anyone seeking music that transcends borders and expectations. If you haven't experienced this cult classic yet, now's the time to let Gábor Szabó expand your musical horizons. Reissue on 180g vinyl.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 336LP
|
$28.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 12/12/2025
Money Chicha, the Austin-based collective featuring members of the Grammy-winning Latin orchestras Grupo Fantasma and Brownout, unveils their third full-length album, Onda Esotérica. Recorded at New Orleans' Marigny Studios, the album deepens their signature psychedelic cumbia amazónica sound with exotic textures, vintage organ swells, and inventive reinterpretations of classics such as "Cumbia Arabe." As KUTX puts it, "Listening to Money Chicha feels a bit like taking a hit of acid, downing a couple shots of Tequila, and hopping a plane to 1960s Peru -- it's the kind of music that rewires your brain, awakens your spirit animal, and takes you places you've never been." Add in some South Texas swagger and bruising Latin funk, and Onda Esotérica emerges as the band's most adventurous and transportive work to date -- a kaleidoscopic journey equal parts ritual and revelation.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
7"
|
|
VAMPI 45102EP
|
$15.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 12/12/2025
From the heights of the Andes come two incredible recordings that show how local folklore has embraced international hits -- resulting in fun, unexpected fusions with a distinct Andean twist. "Do You Think I'm Sexy?," Rod Stewart's 1978 classic, is transformed into a powerful huayno anthem -- complete with driving percussion and bold brass that almost echo the sound of a New Orleans street parade. On the flip side comes a playful nod to "Saturday Night Fever" -- retitled "El Travoltoso" -- infused with infectious rhythms of huayno and cumbia. Once again, wind instruments take center stage in this track, just like in the flip-side cut. Reissued for the first time ever.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
7"
|
|
VAMPI 45114EP
|
$17.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 12/12/2025
A longtime favorite among Brazilian music collectors! Trio Ternura's "A Gira," originally released in 1973, blends mid-tempo grooves with percussive funk and soul in a way that feels effortlessly timeless. Vampisoul now make this incredible single available once again, cut at 45 RPM and remastered from the original tapes. The track was written by the group's father and uncle as a heartfelt homage to the Candomblé deity -- celebrating nature and spirituality. Trio Ternura was a true family project, made up of three siblings with deep musical roots. According to them "A Gira" captures "the dancing, the expression, the lyrics and musical relaxation -- something very Brazilian." The B-side features the trio's soulful interpretation of Gato Barbieri's "Last Tango in Paris," adding a mellow cinematic touch to this sought-after release.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
7"
|
|
VAMPI 45116EP
|
$15.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 11/21/2025
Manny Corchado should be a household name for all boogaloo fans. His classic track "Pow-Wow" is one of the most sought-after singles among collectors and DJs -- not just for its A-side, but also for the absolute dance floor bomb hidden on its B-side: "Chicken and Booze." This instrumental recording features an irresistible rhythm section that could practically serve as the definition of the boogaloo genre itself. On the B-side of this single comes another version of the same song -- this time re-titled "Aguardiente y Pollo" in Spanish -- performed by Nelson y sus Estrellas. The tropical and salsa orchestra, founded in Venezuela by pianist, composer, and bandleader Nelson González Rojas, keeps the same punch and dance-driven focus as Corchado's version, but adds more melodic and sophisticated arrangements.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 334LP
|
$28.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 11/21/2025
This anthology of Los Wembler's allows listeners to appreciate the legacy of the iconic group from Iquitos, the most important city in the Peruvian Amazon which is only accessible by air or river, and their key role in the creation and revival of Amazonian cumbia. Los Wembler's emerged as a family band in the late 1960s in the Belén district of Iquitos and are regarded as pioneers of electric guitar-driven Amazonian cumbia from Perú. The selection of songs that make up this compilation dates from the period between 1972 and 1980, at the peak of the band's career. Songs such as "Sonido amazónico" or "La danza del petrolero" have become highly influential classics of the genre. Most of these tracks are reissued here for the first time after remaining unavailable for decades. Selva includes an insert with liner notes and photos. Pressed on 180g vinyl.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 329LP
|
Among the most revered voices in funk, Marva Whitney holds a special place thanks to her fierce energy and unmistakable style on tracks like the classic "Unwind Yourself," a long-time favorite for DJs and dance floors alike. Emerging from the dynamic world of the James Brown Revue in the late 1960s -- alongside iconic names like Lyn Collins and Vicki Anderson -- Marva quickly carved out a name for herself. In 1969, she began recording as a solo artist under James Brown's King label, scoring a Top 20 R&B hit with 'It's My Thing.' While mainstream hits were few, her music resonated deeply with funk lovers and crate diggers around the world. Songs like "You Got to Have a Job" and the endlessly sampled "Unwind Yourself" have only grown in stature over the decades. Her album, It's My Thing, dropped that same year and has since become a touchstone of the genre. Backed by the legendary JB's and produced by James Brown himself -- who also contributed to most of the songwriting -- the album captures a raw, unapologetic funk sound with a distinctly female voice at the forefront. From the explosive opening of "It's My Thing" -- a bold response to the Isley Brothers' "It's Your Thing" -- Marva channels sheer intensity, backed by a band that doesn't let up. The pace briefly softens with "If You Love Me," a soul-soaked ballad in the spirit of Otis Redding, before diving back into the rhythmic grit of tracks like "Unwind Yourself." Decades later, It's My Thing continues to inspire, sampled by producers and treasured by collectors -- a powerful snapshot of funk at its most uncompromising. Reissue on 180g vinyl.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 327LP
|
A samba funk essential. This debut album from Jorge Ben's iconic backing band blends Brazilian rhythms, soulful vocals, and American funk energy into one unforgettable groove. Includes the hit single "Coqueiro Verde" along with standout tracks like "Meu País," 'Aleluia, Aleluia," and "O Canto da Ema." A timeless gem for fans of Brazilian soul, vintage funk, or global grooves. First time official reissue. Trio Mocotó is best known for being the powerhouse backing band behind Brazilian legend Jorge Ben during the height of his creative explosion in the early 1970s. But their contribution to music goes far beyond the supporting role -- they were instrumental in shaping what would become known as samba funk, a vibrant fusion of traditional Brazilian rhythms with the groove and energy of American soul and funk music. Formed in São Paulo's iconic Jogral nightclub, Trio Mocotó -- featuring Fritz Escovão, Joãozinho Parahyba, and Nereu Gargalo -- began their musical journey as resident musicians, providing live accompaniment for a rotating cast of performers. It was here that Jorge Ben first encountered their raw talent and unmistakable chemistry, ultimately inviting them to join his band. The collaboration would go on to define an era. In 1971, Trio Mocotó stepped into the spotlight with their debut solo album, Muita Zorra! (São Coisas Que Glorificam a Sensibilidade Atual). The record made an immediate impact, climbing the charts with the infectious single "Coqueiro Verde" and marking the start of a prolific period in the group's career. Muita Zorra! is a dazzling blend of styles -- mixing the baroque funk and melodic sophistication of artists like Marcos Valle with the soulful spirit of Jorge Ben. Layered with elements of American funk, the album delivers a dynamic, rhythm-driven sound that still feels fresh today. The trio's vocal harmonies are front and center, weaving through each track with warmth and richness, creating a captivating sonic tapestry that energizes every beat. This album isn't just a snapshot of a musical moment -- it's a cornerstone of Brazilian soul. A must-listen for fans of global grooves, vintage funk, and timeless Brazilian music, Muita Zorra! is once again available and ready to take its well-deserved place in your collection.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 330LP
|
$30.50
PREORDER
RELEASE DATE: 11/7/2025
The Spice of Life, released in November 1969, stands as Marlena Shaw's second -- and final -- studio album for Cadet Records, produced and arranged by the renowned Richard Evans and Charles Stepney. From the opening, Shaw's voice -- both playful and powerful -- cuts through the lush yet tight-knit arrangements, weaving together a vibrant tapestry of soul, proto-funk, jazz, gospel, and blues. The album features two defining classics: her deeply resonant original of "Woman of the Ghetto" and a signature take on Ashford & Simpson's "California Soul," both staples in sampling culture (you'll probably find that you're more familiar with Shaw's material than you thought.) Evans and Stepney's arrangements are far from mere support -- they're panoramic and inventive. You'll hear kalimba flourishes, psych-tinged guitar accents, and bongo-fueled organ textures that elevate each track, keeping the atmosphere rich but never overwhelming. Moments like the Bacharach-styled "Looking Through the Eyes of Love" or the dramatic flair of "Stormy Monday" showcase their widescreen sensibility and Shaw's versatility. Beneath its musical elegance, The Spice of Life carries a weighty current of social commentary. Tracks such as "Woman of the Ghetto" and the succinct, fierce "Liberation Conversation" bring political and feminist themes into a soulful, expressive framework -- adding unexpected depth to the sophisticated sonic palette. This album offers an immersive journey through soul-jazz mastery, one that rewarded listeners with sampling gold for decades to come. Reissue on 180g vinyl.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 321LP
|
An essential Roy Ayers album blending soulful jazz roots with crisp 1970s funk. Featuring Ayers' signature vibes, tight arrangements, and standout tracks like "The Boogie Back" (sampled by the likes of NWA, 2Pac, and De La Soul) and "Change Up the Groove," this LP is a must-have for any fan of jazz-funk and vintage grooves. Step into the vibrant soundscape of the 1970s with Change Up the Groove, a hidden gem from Roy Ayers Ubiquity's early Polygram years. Often overlooked in favor of Ayers' bigger hits, this soulful album is a masterclass in jazz-funk fusion, capturing the essence of Ayers' evolving style as he bridged the gap between his jazz roots and the rhythmic snap of the '70s funk revolution. From the very first track, Ayers' signature vibes take center stage, shimmering with emotion and groove. The album leans heavily into instrumental richness, with standout contributions from jazz greats like the legendary Bernard Purdie on drums. Strings weave in and out subtly, enhancing Ayers' already deep and textured arrangements. Change Up the Groove isn't just an album -- it's a snapshot of Roy Ayers' artistic evolution, full of rhythm, heart, and timeless groove. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering his legacy, this record is essential listening.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
7"
|
|
VAMPI 45115EP
|
Alfredo "El Inca" Linares is one of the most talented and beloved musicians in salsa history. Fans are drawn to his piano playing for its authentic Cuban feel and swing, paired with progressive arrangements and bold, uncompromising phrasing reminiscent of Eddie Palmieri. Since the 1960s in Lima, Peru -- where his career first took off -- his records have consistently hit the mark: tight, sharp, and hard as hell. It's what salseros call salsa brava con afinque. His 1973 anthem, "Tiahuanaco," is widely considered one of Linares' greatest and most iconic tracks, receiving international releases at the time. Despite its undeniable dance floor appeal, this recording has never been released on a DJ friendly 45 -- until now.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 333LP
|
Hasabe is a thoughtfully curated collection of Ethio-groove recordings from one of the overlooked pioneers of 1970s Addis Ababa's vibrant music scene -- Ayalew Mesfin and his Black Lion Band. Expect trap drum kits, jazz big-band styled horn sections, funky guitars played through wah wah and fuzz pedals -- all seasoned with a unique Ethiopian touch. Reissued once again thanks to Vampisoul's collaboration with Now Again. Pressed on 180g vinyl. For many, the music created in 1970s Ethiopia will sound both familiar and alien: while the trappings of '70s Ethiopian music carry some aspects that those in the West will easily identify with the Ethiopian style of singing, and the modes in which the musicians move, may confound. Perhaps some who have delved into the instrumental Ethio-Jazz of Mulatu Astatke -- a well-known Ethiopian musical export, relatively unknown in his homeland -- will have a context in which to engage this great compilation of '70s Ethiopian music by Ayalew Mesfin. The music Mesfin created with his Black Lion Band is amongst the funkiest to arise from Addis Ababa; his recording career, captured in nearly two dozen 7" singles and numerous reel-to-reel tapes, shows the strata of the most fertile decade in Ethiopia's 20th century recording industry, when records were pressed constantly by both independent upstarts and corporate behemoths, even if they were only distributed within the confines of the unconquerable East African nation. Ayalew was forced underground by the Derg regime that took control of the country in 1974. Until recently, only four of Ayalew Mesfin's tracks had been reissued, appearing in the well-known Éthiopiques series. Hasabe marks the first comprehensive release of this powerful and long-overlooked body of work by an artist whose originality and resistance defined a genre: Ethio-groove. More than four decades later, this album offers the rare opportunity to rediscover a vital and beautiful chapter in global music history.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 332LP
|
This curated collection comprises hard-to-find salsa 45s from the Discos Fuentes vaults -- deep cuts that have long flown under the radar but still light up dance floors today. This compilation also includes a range of studio experiments and covers -- where artists like Piper Pimienta, Galileo y Su Banda, and La Integración reimagined beloved hits, from boleros to vallenatos, through a distinctly Colombian salsa lens. During the golden age of vinyl -- from the 1960s through the 1980s -- Colombia produced an astonishing number of 45 rpm records -- many of them not tied to full albums, that continue to surprise collectors and music lovers today. This abundance can be attributed to many factors: affordability, jukebox demand, radio promotion, or simply the joy of sharing a small musical token with a loved one. Whatever the reason, these little records traveled far and wide, sometimes ending up in distant countries -- especially Mexico -- carried by DJs, collectors, or pirate radio waves. They became cultural passports, spreading salsa, cumbia, son montuno, and more. These tracks, once pressed in small numbers, feature top tier musicianship, fiery brass, unforgettable grooves, and lyrical gems that reflect the rich diversity of Colombia's musical landscape. Every track tells a story -- of artistic ambition, social change, regional identity, or simple joy. Some were attempts at hits, others personal expressions or studio curiosities. What they share is an authenticity that continues to resonate. These obscure gems, long scattered across dusty crates and forgotten jukeboxes, now find new life. They speak not just to the past, but to a timeless rhythm that still moves dancers and dreamers alike. Featuring Super Combo Los Famosos, Sexteto Manaure, La Protesta De Colombia, Sonora Guantanamera, Orquesta Salsa Panamericana, La Integración, Galileo Y Su Banda, The Latin Brothers, Piper Pimienta Y Su Orquesta, and Fruko Y Sus Tesos.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 328LP
|
Ranil is undoubtedly the most unconventional figure among the greats of Amazonian cumbia, earning a well-deserved place alongside all the better-known iconic bands. He worked as a teacher, criollo guitarist, radio host, TV entrepreneur, and politician, but gained lasting fame as the founder of Ranil y Su Conjunto Tropical in the 1970s. By 1968, around the same time Los Destellos were making waves in Lima, groups like Los Wembler's de Iquitos and Juaneco y su Combo began electrifying cumbia in Iquitos. This new genre, dubbed Amazonian cumbia, exploded nationwide in 1973, thanks to hits by Juaneco y su Combo, Los Mirlos, and Los Wembler's. The success these bands achieved spawned dozens of other groups from the Amazon. Ranil, always a visionary, recognized the movement's potential and joined forces through his first single recorded on the Dinsa label in 1974. Unhappy with the contractual terms, he went on to found Producciones Llerena, the label on which he would release the rest of his discography. Over the years, Ranil y su Conjunto Tropical featured guitarists like Límber Zumba and Luis Nigro, while Ranil remained the lead vocalist and bassist for group. Zumba and Nigro had already played with other regional bands and written songs for groups like Los Destellos and Los Mirlos. This compilation offers a glimpse into the vast musical output Ranil created in the late 1970s and early 1980s, bringing together 14 tracks from the band's ten LPs. These records have always been hard to come by as, despite being recorded in Lima, they were distributed by Ranil from Iquitos. Psychedelia, rock fusion, cumbia, salsa, mambo, Amazonian folk -- you'll find all these flavors blended into the vibrant, jungle-rich sound Ranil crafted.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 325LP
|
This compilation brings together for the first time the best songs by Los Zheros, one of the most renowned cumbia bands to emerge in the early 1970s in Iquitos -- alongside groups like Los Rogers and Los Wemblers -- in the heart of Peru's Amazon capital. The unique Amazonian sound blended fast, percussive cumbia rhythms with electric guitars in a surf style -- a distinctive fusion that came to define Peruvian-recorded cumbia, markedly different from the traditional cumbia styles that developed in other cumbia-producing countries like Colombia. The album includes their psychedelic rock hit "Cuarto Oscuro," a highly sought-after track not only by cumbia collectors but also by garage and psychedelic DJs. This song also marked the beginning of their recording career in 1973. This compilation is a joint release with the Peruvian label Rey Record and comes with an insert featuring never- before-seen photos of the band, as well as liner notes by genre expert Víctor Zela (the mind behind the prestigious project La Cumbia de mis Viejos).
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 320LP
|
Pressed on 180g vinyl. In Everybody Loves the Sunshine (1976), Roy Ayers seamlessly blends genres, creating a timeless sound that continues to influence musicians and DJs around the world. He makes the vibraphone the central instrument, a jazz-funk approach that defines his unique style. Over time, the album has remained an essential reference in Roy Ayers' discography and in the history of '70s Black music. Summertime soul classic! This album not only solidified Ayers as a key figure in the world of jazz-funk but also marked a milestone in soul music and contemporary jazz. It features a sophisticated blend of irresistible grooves, smooth melodies, and a unique sound that has endured over the years, becoming a reference for multiple generations of musicians and listeners. By the mid-'70s, Ayers had already established his reputation with his band, Roy Ayers Ubiquity, and his distinctive use of the vibraphone, which became his personal trademark. However, with this album, Ayers ventured into a smoother, more accessible sound, partly in response to the rise of disco music and the growing interest in more experimental sounds within the music scene. Throughout its ten tracks, Ayers managed to create a sonic atmosphere that evoked both the warmth of summer and the sophistication of jazz from that era, set against a backdrop of modern soul. The production was carried out by Ayers himself, along with his producer and friend, David R. Williams, and features the wonderful sound of Phillip Woo's Fender Rhodes and the powerful energy of the rest of the band, achieving an unmistakable authenticity and freshness. Some of its most well-known songs include the title track, "Everybody Loves the Sunshine," "The Golden Rod," and "The Third Eye," which quickly became classics of jazz-funk and soul. This album is crucial in Roy Ayers' career, as it demonstrates his ability to remain relevant and creative in an ever-changing music industry.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
7"
|
|
VAMPI 45107X-EP
|
Splatter color vinyl version. Jonathan Richman's classic "Egyptian Reggae" has been responsible for setting thousands of discerning dance floors on fire. After getting the obvious Jah twist on a few occasions, so Vampisoul thought it was about time for the Richman's song to receive a fun yet respectful cumbia treatment! This cumbia candy has been recorded in Lima by no other than Pancho Acosta, founder and guitarist of Compay Quinto, and one of the greatest cumbia guitar players in Peru. On the flip side is one of Acosta´s own original songs, "Carnaval de Jujuy," recorded by Austin-based future-cumbia group Money Chicha. The band presents a fascinating exploration of the nexus of Peru's legendary fuzzed out early chicha sound and the band's unique application of chicha-influenced sounds to this terrific cumbia.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 326LP
|
This elusive and lesser-known 1966 collector's gem by Óscar Agudello y el Combo Moderno called Pa' mi muñeca is an album devoted to recreating the strength of a musical genre that's been the soundtrack of Colombian life for decades and represents a milestone on the route cumbia had taken by 1966, when it was originally released on Discos Fuentes. It's exactly the kind of music that lights up a tambó or a fandango circle on carnival night. First time reissue. Includes liner notes by genre expert Don Alirio. 180g vinyl. It is a rarity where the artist took an unexpected musical turn and performed several porros, paseaitos, gaitas, and cumbias, evoking the swaying motion and rolling waves of Colombia's Caribbean sound. It resonates with the echoes of a romantic minstrel laced with an unexpected richness of nuance, a hallmark of the cumbia sound. A dozen tracks, none of them new, but suffused with a consciousness that can be understood within the context of their time and with the personality of the artist bold enough to bring them to life. "Madre cumbia" opens the album with a festive, nostalgic mood, infused with the simple beauty and the electrifying beat of the tropics that immediately makes you want to get up and dance. It's a fantastic example of how to perform a song with passion and make the listener fall instantly in love with an album. "Pa' mi muñeca," the title track, is a fast-paced paseaito that explores new paths that took a shortcut to the dance halls. A showstopper on the dance floor. "Está como mango" is a porro-cumbia that charms with a rich tapestry of compliments, the calling card of many old-school tropical songs. "Cumbia de recuerdo," "Cumbia suave," "Cumbia de Santa Marta," are back-to-back cumbias. This is an album devoted to recreating the strength of a musical genre that's been the soundtrack of Colombian life for decades. It's a record dedicated to capturing good times, filled with simple dreams, steeped in joyful energy, and shining with the uninhibited flair, or better said, the quality of the sixties.
|
|
|
Artist |
Title |
Format |
Label |
Catalog # |
|
|
LP
|
|
VAMPI 324LP
|
The Rhythm Machine is now available again to the musical public, legitimately reissued in its original packaging. Offering up brilliant soul, haunting ballads and high-energy mid-'70s funk, this tasty medley is served best in its entirety. Virtually impossible to find in its original edition, it is now reissued once again thanks to a collaboration with Now Again. Pressed on 180g vinyl. Indianapolis' legendary Rhythm Machine is one of the rare funk bands that transitioned between eras of funk's history seamlessly, creating awesome funk sides for a host of independent labels between the years of 1968 and 1976. Born out of cult Indy funk band The Highlighters' ashes, the Rhythm Machine was founded in the early '70s by bass player James Boone and guitarist James Brantley. Their self-titled and only LP, originally released in 1976, is a wild, super-groovy ride with tight band energy and a bunch of unexpected twists that keep things interesting from start to finish. At first, you might catch some Earth, Wind & Fire vibes -- deep basslines, funky beats, and killer horn sections -- but dig a little deeper and you'll find something a little looser, a little cooler. There's a smooth, jazzy undercurrent running through a lot of these tracks that gives the whole thing a fresh, off-the-beaten-path feel. Some songs drift into a dreamy, almost spacey zone -- think cosmic funk with a romantic twist. The production is silky, almost liquid-like, letting the guitars shimmer and the keys float. And when the soprano sax kicks in? Pure magic. It adds just the right bite to take the tracks up a notch. Perfect for late-night grooves, chill sessions, or anyone hunting for that hidden gem funk record with serious soul.
|
viewing 1 To 25 of 409 items
Next >>
|
|