Various Artists – Tropical Disco Records, Vol. 15

Swinging back from the disco heavens, London based Tropical Disco Records return for their fifteen volume, a milestone record, spawned from label founders Moodena and Sartorial, and joined by two newcomers. Moodena introduces the record, having conjured a piece exclaiming exactly what the title tells us – “Deep Fried Funk”. It’s a consistent theme in Moodena’s work, a functional formula, yet one that’s laced with so much moody flow, exuberant live instrumentation and expert curation, his work alone has made the TD series unmissable. Next up label partner Sartorial stylishly takes control of proceedings with “Together”. Installing a lush lick of brass, timeless vocals bring together a joyful soiree of vibrant, swish sonic curios. On the flip, Mexican artist, Monsieur Van Pratt’s “Clavs & Trumpets” presents a purposeful increase in pace on the record. Vintage 70’s disco stabs swirl and dive beneath, you guessed it – clavs, and the most seductive, ever evolving trumpet workout. Rounding off the record is Colombian duo Vagabundo Club Social, who bring vibrant, West African infused boogie. “Encanto Nigeriano” is all about bouncy drums, underpinned by the most effortlessly tight bass and fervent vocals, certain to lubricate any dancer with maximum effect. It’s a classy round off from a label going from strength to strength.