Library Catalog Music Series: Kristin Miltner: Music For Dreaming and Playing (Asthmatic Kitty)

Library Catalog Music Series: Kristin Miltner: Music For Dreaming and Playing (Asthmatic Kitty) – The 8th installment of Asthmatic Kitty's Library Catalog Music Series presents two themes from Oakland, California based electronic sound sculptor Kristin Miltner. By utilizing custom software to combine varied flourishes into the textural backdrop, the pieces are transformed in unexpected ways. Expectedly, the dream sequence evolves, while play bounces around. Upon hearing the pieces, it's not surprising that she has designed audio for several video games and toys. Nearly Recommended. Dig 2 4 5 7 10 11

Lloyd Miller and the Heliocentrics: s/t (Strut)

Lloyd Miller and the Heliocentrics: s/t (Strut) – UK collective The Heliocentrics join noted Eastern jazz innovator Dr. Lloyd Miller on a freeform mix of Eastern arrangements meshing modal jazz and floating psychedelics. The swirling sounds draw one's spirit onto otherworldly airs. Gliding around mother earth, elevated by inner rhythms, spirit jazz will carry you away. Nearly Highly Recommended. Dig 2 3 5 6 11

Various Artists: Afro-Beat Airways: West African Shock Waves Ghana & Togo 1972-1978 (Analog Africa)

Various Artists: Afro-Beat Airways: West African Shock Waves Ghana & Togo 1972-1978 (Analog Africa) – Climb aboard for a smoking journey into organ-driven Afro-beat, cosmic Afro-funk and raw, psychedelic boogie from Ghana and Togo. Features funky guitars, punchy horns, flipped-out organ, deep poly-rhythms and jagged vocals. Culled from vintage Essiebons and PolyGram West Africa sides, this compilation will have you flying high. Highly Recommended. Dig 3 5 6 7 8 10 11 15

Luisa Maita: Lero-Lero (Cumbancha)

Luisa Maita: Lero-Lero (Cumbancha) - The debut release from São Paolo native Luisa Maita combines her sultry, seductive vocals with modern Brazilian sensibilities. Native rhythms are combined with acoustic instrumentation and restrained electronic embellishments. She allows the rhythms to carry her away, effortlessly bringing her listeners along. Nearly Recommended. Dig 1 2 3 5 7

Budos Band: III (Daptone)

Budos Band: III (Daptone) - Staten Island deep-funk ensemble The Budos Band are poised to strike with their 3rd release. The funky core of guitar, bass and drums come to life with three-part horns, psychedelic organ and earthy percussion. Shadowed intrigue, exotic adventure and thrilling engagements unfurl within the instrumental, soundtrack-like sonic adventure. Recommended. Dig 1 2 3 6 9 10 11

Mahjongg: The Long Shadow of the Paper Tiger (K)

Mahjongg: The Long Shadow of the Paper Tiger (K) - Mahjongg is not your typical k artist. Sans founding guitarist Jeff Carillo, Mahjongg hone their "Chicagotronics" for the dancefloor. It's a fusion of 8-bit, industrial, Afro-beat, drum-n-bass drum and more. Robotic and earthy elements ebb and flow within the layers of keys, guitars, polyrhythmic grooves, exuberant yelps and vocoder vocals. Dynamic and euphoric – the Paper Tiger is far from tame. Recommended. RIYL: !!!

Catalyst: The Complete Recordings Vol 1 and Vol 2 (Porter)

Catalyst: The Complete Recordings Vol 1 and Vol 2 (Porter) - Catalyst were a Philadelphia four-man jazz combo which spawned a creative fusion of avant-garde, contemporary bop, soul and funk. Formed in the early 70s members included Eddie Green (keyboards, vocals), Sherman Ferguson (drums, percussion, marimba), Odean Pope (sax, flute, oboe), and Al Johnson / Tyron Brown (bass). In all, they released four albums for Cobblestone and its successor Muse before disbanding in 1976. Each album had its own vibe. Available for the first time this century thanks to Porter Records – and they really come to life in the warmth of the analog format. Highly Recommended.