LRK

Natasha Watts returns with her long-awaited forth studio album on vinyl ‘MUSIC IS MY LIFE’ Having had huge success on the UK soul scene for over ten years, Natasha’s live performances and vivacious personality have made her one of the leading UK female soul independent artists in the UK. Her new album delivers a gritty, mature, and well-rounded soul sound that is unique. So, buy and enjoy the beautiful voice and that is Natasha Watts. releases September 22, 2023 Limited edition 500 copies pressed on black vinyl. Secure a copy now before they have gone! Music Is My Life by Natasha Watts

Toronto-based Soul/R&B artist Aphrose is back and ready to release her soulful,long-anticipated single, "Good Love" from her upcoming 7" vinyl release on LRK Records. A dreamy, evocative slow jam that is sure to make you feel like you've been transported back to the heyday of the 70s, "Good Love" features Aphrose's undeniable vocal prowess supported by layers of bass, drums, string synths,percussion, and luxurious vocal harmonies.Drawing inspiration from the late Teddy Pendergrass, early MJ, and the sounds of the 70s Soul era, Aphrose and her production team SafeSpaceship Music (Scott McCannell, Chino DeVilla & Ben Macdonald) crafted this deep-cut soul classic that drenches you in lush vocals and string synths, met by undulating bass and drum sounds.Aphrose was inspired to write about experiencing that "good love" that surpasses all barriers, even theself-sabotaging ones we put up to protect ourselves. "Good Love" also features Kyla Charter-one of Toronto's most brilliant artists- on background vocals,as well as Ben Macdonald on tenor saxophone, which is the cherry on top. Yaya to be announced soon.. releases July 7, 2023 PRE-ORDER HERE: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/good-love-2. Reviews A bridge between the golden age of soul and the sound of today…” - Wordplay Magazine (UK) Wordplay Magazine (UK) “‘Good Love’ is the new neo soul single from Aphrose Low bpm, syncopated rhythm, discreet congas, a sax that enters at the end and recalls the tradition of smooth jazz. And above all, the voice of Canadian Aphrose.” - Adaja Inira Music Letter (Italy) “Aphrose's stunning range spans the vocal stratosphere, with both lead and background performance having the power of the female giants of soul, showcasing her astonishing range and complete vocal control.” - Soul Collection (Italy) Soul Collection (Italy) “Feeling like a warm embrace, this buttery-smooth R&B groove, with a gentle rhythm, mellow keys and honey-sweet vocals, is dipped in a bath of luscious musical magic” - Jansen’s Jamz Jansen’s Jamz “Sometimes the biggest battles to fight in life are those that extend beyond the physical realm. Despite its intangibility, the invisible chains can sometimes be the ones that are the most binding. Toronto’s Aphrose offers an enlightening perspective on confronting those very chains with an attitude of victory.” - Celeste Danielle Earmilk

TORONTO'S CLAIRE DAVIS SHARES HER SMASHING DEBUT LP "GET IT RIGHT" OUT TODAY! Toronto-based retro-soul artist Claire Davis shares her journey of self-worth and love on her debut album "Get it Right", out April 21st 2023, via LRK Records. This lively 10-track analog soul LP was recorded to an 8-track tape machine by engineer Braden Sauder in a converted garage- studio in Toronto, owned by the renowned instrumentalj azz/hip-hop group, BADBADNOTGOOD. Featuring some of the city's top-flight musicians in the R&B/Soul scene, the album was laid down live-off-the-floor in one week during the winter of 2022. Davis shares, "My heart really lies in live performance so I wanted to recreate that experience as much as possible for this record by having the musicians all record together to tape. I feel like I personally thrive under the limitations that tape gives you; it offers the opportunity to capture a vibe of a performance more so than chasing perfection. Knowing that my favourite soul records were recorded this way gives me an even deeper appreciation for the skill and talent involved in this process. "Get it Right" is a record born out of the faith that there's better things on the other side of fear. Whether that's breaking toxic cycles or being truly honest about what is and isn't working in life. The first song written for the record was the title-track of the album which began as a jam between Davis on guitar, producer Scott McCannell on bass, and drummer Chino deVilla. "The lyrics were inspired by my relationship with my partner and the intention that we both have to work on healing ourselves in order to make our partnership work. I'd like to think that it's a love song with a strong sense of maturity and understanding to it. And the whole record was really shaped around that idea of my relationships and experiences stemming from my own sense of self-love and my desire to live and create from an authentic place." The songs on the album feature co-writes from Scott McCannell, Kyla Charter, and Toronto production house Safe Spaceship Music, in addition to horn and background vocal arrangements by composer La-Nai Gabriel. Musicians include Heather Crawford on guitar, Scott McCannell on bass, Adrian Hogan on keys, Chino de Villa on drums, Juan Carlos Medrano on percussion, Aphrose, Tegan Michelle Gordon and Chynna Lewis on background vocals, and horn section The Northern Soul Horns. "Get it Right" follows up Davis' most recent 7" vinyl release of "Long Gone"/ "Times Have Changed" and most recent single release "Intuition" on LRK Records. Order here in all formats: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/get-it-right https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/get-it-right Get It Right by Claire Davis

After the success of their previous “Get Mine/I’m Gone” 7” vinyl 45 release LRK Records is proud to announce the follow up record. A side: What Will You Leave Behind B side: Bang Bang Bang Bella Brown & The Jealous Lovers are a Los Angeles based, transplanted from Chicago, unit that specializes in 60s/70s soul and funk. The band is fronted by the dynamically charismatic Bella Brown. A fiery female lead singer that is a mixture of Tina Turner and Sharon Jones, with a persona that is reminiscent of the empowered female leads of 70s Blaxploitation films. Backed by the musicianship of The Jealous Lovers they form a unit that expertly expresses a uniquely modern interpretation of the traditional soul and funk genres. Their new single “What Will You Leave Behind” exemplifies this ideal. The track is a heartfelt call to action in these times of failed humanity and injustice. A Motown influenced message of hope that features sympathetic vocals, supportive horns, and a funky twist that asks us to create a better future by considering the effects of our present! credits Only 300 copies press on 7" vinyl Be quick there are only 62 copies left! Pre-order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/what-will-you-leave-behind What Will You Leave Behind by Bella Brown & The Jealous Lovers Releases May 26, 2023 Bella Brown: Vocals Linda Taylor: Guitar David Delhomme: Keyboards, Guitar Daniel Pearson: Bass Curt Bisquera: Drums Taku Hirano: Percussion The Regiment Horns Sean Erick: Trumpet Leon Silva: Tenor Sax Kevin Williams: Trombone Composed by Carol Hatchett, Daniel Pearson Publishing: Avenue J Music(BMI), Velvet Sundae(ASCAP) Produced by Daniel Pearson Recording Engineer: The Jealous Lovers Mix Engineer: Daniel Pearson Mastering Engineer: J J Golden Horns arranged by Daniel Pearson Executive Producer: Avenue J Music, Liam Kenney(LRK Records) Logo Artwork: Nori Shirasu Special thanks to: Shelia Escovedo, Sean Slade, Enrique Gonzalez Muller, Prince Charles Alexander, Bernard Fowler, Darryl Jones, Richard Mendelson, John Storyk, Susan Rodgers, Daniel Thompson, John Whynot, David Bendeth

TORONTO’S CLAIRE DAVIS SHARES HER SMASHING DEBUT LP “GET IT RIGHT” PRE-ORDER HERE: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/get-it-right Toronto-based retro-soul artist Claire Davis shares her journey of self-worth and love on her debut album “Get it Right", out April 21st 2023, via LRK Records. This lively 10-track analog soul LP was recorded to an 8-track tape machine by engineer Braden Sauder in a converted garage- studio in Toronto, owned by the renowned instrumental jazz/hip-hop group, BADBADNOTGOOD. Featuring some of the city’s top-flight musicians in the R&B/Soul scene, the album was laid down live-off-the-floor in one week during the winter of 2022. Davis shares, “My heart really lies in live performance so I wanted to recreate that experience as much as possible for this record by having the musicians all record together to tape. I feel like I personally thrive under the limitations that tape gives you; it offers the opportunity to capture a vibe of a performance more so than chasing perfection. Knowing that my favourite soul records were recorded this way gives me an even deeper appreciation for the skill and talent involved in this process.” “Get it Right” is a record born out of the faith that there’s better things on the other side of fear. Whether that’s breaking toxic cycles or being truly honest about what is and isn’t working in life. The first song written for the record was the title-track of the album which began as a jam between Davis on guitar, producer Scott McCannell on bass, and drummer Chino deVilla. “The lyrics were inspired by my relationship with my partner and the intention that we both have to work on healing ourselves in order to make our partnership work. I’d like to think that it’s a love song with a strong sense of maturity and understanding to it. And the whole record was really shaped around that idea of my relationships and experiences stemming from my own sense of self-love and my desire to live and create from an authentic place.” The songs on the album feature co-writes from Scott McCannell, Kyla Charter, and Toronto production house Safe Spaceship Music, in addition to horn and background vocal arrangements by composer La-Nai Gabriel. Musicians include Heather Crawford on guitar, Scott McCannell on bass, Adrian Hogan on keys, Chino de Villa on drums, Juan Carlos Medrano on percussion, Aphrose, Tegan Michelle Gordon and Chynna Lewis on background vocals, and horn section The Northern Soul Horns. "Get it Right" follows up Davis' most recent 7” vinyl release of “Long Gone”/ "Times Have Changed" and most recent single release “Intuition” on LRK Records. RELEASE DATE: APRIL 21ST, 2023 GENRE: SOUL/R&B HOMETOWN: TORONTO ON Video PRE-ORDER NOW: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/get-it-right CREDITS: Lead Vocals: Claire Davis Bass: Scott McCannell Guitar: Heather Crawford Drums: Chino de Villa Keys: Adrian Hogan Percussion: Juan Carlos Medrano Magallanes Background Vocalists: Joanna Mohammed (Aphrose), Tegan Michelle Gordon, Chynna Lewis Tenor Saxophone: Dennis Passley Bari Saxophone: Yvonne Moir Trumpet: Tom Moffett Background Vocal and Horn section arrangements: La-Nai Gabriel Produced by: Scott McCannell Engineer: Braden Sauder Recorded at: Studio 69 in Toronto Mixed by: Scott McCannell Mastered by Montano Mastering Photography by Stephanie Montani Album Artwork Design by Jaffa the Unknown

LRK Records proudly presents the last release of the year Falling by the Wayside – A Motown flavoured uplifting, unmissable and irresistible new single by Paul Mac Innes ORDER now! No long pre-orders on theses ones. Shipping out by Dec 9th 2022 for everyone to get before Christmas and the UK postage strikes. Only 300 copies pressed. Singer Paul Mac Innes and producer Mattias Axelsson share a great love for the timeless Motown sound that led them to write "Falling by the Wayside" sometime before the pandemic. The song was put on hold. But at a live performance, they chose to perform the song and then understood that the time had come to record this track for real. They booked the new studio Skeppet in Gothenburg and brought along some of the city's best musicians. Releases December 9, 2022 Musicians: Producer & Drums: Mattias Axelsson Keys: Markus Linnell Zovic Git: Andreas Högberg Bass: DavidGötvall Engineer: Pär Hagström Horns: Jakob Sollerman Strings: Karl Johan Råsmark Mastering: Hans Olsson Vocals: Paul Mac Innes Order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/falling-by-the-wayside-2

After the success of 'Thrive ' & 'Playground" LRK are excited to be able to share with you a brand new 45 by Claire Davis. https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/long-gone-2 A jewel of Canada’s Soul scene, Claire Davis takes it up a notch and showcases her mighty vocals on the fiery breakup single “Long Gone”. Drawing from her influences of the likes of Etta James and Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, the unrelenting rhythm and sassy background vocals of this track complement the “take-no-mess” message of Davis’ lyrics and vocal delivery. A song about knowing your worth and walking away from those who don’t! Claire Davis is an analog enthusiast, opting to record to tape whenever possible to best capture the feel and energy of a live performance and this single does not disappoint. The track was co-written by Toronto based artist Kyla Charter and producer Scott McCannell whom Davis has excitedly collaborated with for years on various other projects in Toronto’s R&B/Soul scene. The saucy background vocal arrangement from composer/arranger La-Nai Gabriel provided the icing on the cake for this record which features dynamic background vocals from Aphrose, Tegan Michelle Gordon, and Chynna Lewis. Available on 7” Vinyl on Wednesday November 30th, 2022 Pre-Order from Friday October 14th, 2022 via LRK Records The flip side to be announced early Nov Preorder here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/long-gone-2 Long Gone by Claire Davis Claire Davis is a musical time traveller. Known for her mighty and expressive vocals, Davis authentically and effortlessly brought the sounds of ‘60s and ‘70s soul into the present on her debut solo EP Thrive. Recording the EP to tape, Davis stayed true to the golden years of soul music that inspire her most, “I wanted to have the flavour of some of my favourite soul records while also being unique compositionally.” Davis explains, “Using an analog process is all about capturing the vibe of a performance, it’s a practice in giving up the idea of perfection and tapping into the moment when you’re recording.” Carving out her reputation as a powerhouse frontwoman and background vocalist in the Toronto music scene, Davis joined seven-piece retro funk ensemble YUKA as their lead singer on full-length album releases From the Ancients (2014) and Dreamscape (2019) to critical acclaim. Regarded as one of the best live acts coming out of Toronto, YUKA shared the stage with The Dap-Kings, Lee Fields and the Expressions, Treme Brass Band, and The Souljazz Orchestra. Davis also established herself as a go-to background vocalist for all things soul, performing with legends Martha Reeves (of Martha & the Vandellas), Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, and Jully Black, top Toronto breakout artists Charlotte Day Wilson, Jessie Reyez, and Daniel Caesar. Stepping out on her own as a solo artist, Davis teamed up with producer and YUKA bandmate Scott McCannelll to write and record her debut EP, Thrive. An EP that explores themes of relationships and heartbreak, the title track centres on the relationship we have with ourselves -- the relationship that all else is built upon, “We blossom the most when we love and take care of ourselves first. It’s the only thing we can truly control.” says Claire of the track. Thrive was released digitally on July 16, 2021 and was followed up with a 7” vinyl release on UK label LRK Records which sold out presales in just over a day.

Following a 2022 that has seen Danny Toeman sell out headline shows, getting his songs spun by on BBC Radio 2, and supporting the legendary Diana Ross on one of her rare UK performances, the North London Showman is proud to finally commit his most popular and requested live song to vinyl, as nature intended it! Inspired by the Philly Soul of groups like the O'Jays and Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, Danny combines an orchestral mix of funk, soul, and disco with a dazzling vocal performance, and wry lyrics about finding the keys to the heart of a woman who just can't be satisfied! Already a standout live track and audience favourite for years, Danny Toeman presents 'When the Lights Go Down', not only as a digital single, but as a music video featuring retro dance troupe The Meyer Dancers, and for the first time since 2020, a Limited Edition 45rpm Vinyl, courtesy of LRK Records! The feel-good track was co-written with David Albury, who is currently starring as Bob Marley in the musical 'Get Up, Stand Up', on London's West End. David contributes backing vocals, alongside Durga McBroom, famed backing vocalist for Pink Floyd. Mixing duties were taken up by Vince Chiarito in New York, whose credits include Black Pumas, and Eli "Paperboy" Reed. Limited edition 45. Only 300 copies pressed. Lead Vocals: Danny Toeman Bass: Ricky Kinrade Drums: Timur Djahit Guitar: Lyle Moxsom, Danny Toeman Keyboards: Sam Montero Percussion: Mark Claydon Tenor Saxophone: Andrew Liddell Trumpet: Daniel Gray Baritone Saxophone: Mark Hurrell Backing Vocals: Durga McBroom, David Albury, Shari Mclaren Release courtesy of LRK Records, UK. credits releases September 23, 2022 Pre-order now: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/when-the-lights-go-down

Introducing The HP's. This talent-studded Hamilton-based funk/soul collective is poised to make major moves with the release of their debut 45. The group is the brainchild of drummer/bandleader 'Parkside' Mike Renaud, the founder/owner of noted Canadian music company Hidden Pony Records & Management. A life-long fervent fan of funk and old school soul, Parkside has assembled a crack team of musicians and vocalists dedicated to his vision of breathing vibrant new life into these classic forms. Drawing inspiration from the likes of James Brown and The J.B.'s and Sharon Jones and The Dap Kings. The title pays tribute to Renaud's hometown, Hamilton, and The H.P.'s sound honours The Hammer's core characteristics of rugged authenticity. Get ready to get Gritty! https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-hps-feat-claire-davis — The HP's have partnered with UK based soul label LRK Records for the release of their latest single "Hope To See You Again", featuring Canadian soul singer and LRK artist Claire Davis — "Hope To See You Again" was released digitally March 31st, 2022 — The 45" single will also include a cover of the Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings classic "Better Things" The late Sharon Jones, a key inspiration for Renaud, is honoured via a killer version of her classic tune, "Better Things." The soulful vocals of Claire Davis are accompanied by jaunty horns and keyboards, and the cool groove befits the positive lyrics ("I'm a better woman than I have been"). Giving this cover extra resonance are the memorable encounters both Davis and Renaud had with Jones back in 2015. A documentary portrait of the soul great, Miss Sharon Jones!, had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and Claire Davis was doing a house concert playing DapKings songs that night. The band came across the party and jammed along, then, when one of the Dap Kings backup singers couldn't cross the border, Claire got the call to fill in at Sharon Jones' headlining show at Hamilton's Supercrawl fest. In a cool twist of fate, Mike Renaud was one of the organizers of that show, and was tasked with looking after Sharon. The two bonded instantly and deeply, as Mike recalls. "While driving her to soundcheck, Sharon confided in me that her cancer had returned. She didn't want anyone to know, as the documentary was about her conquering it and she didn't want people to be bummed out at the news. It was my 40th birthday that day, and Sharon actually stopped her show to sing me Happy Birthday in a soulful way! 45 vinyl releases August 5, 2022 You can listen and pre-order the Limited edition (Only 300 pressed, they are going quick) 45 here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-hps-feat-claire-davis <iframe style="border: 0; width: 350px; height: 470px;" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1057541132/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/transparent=true/" seamless><a href="https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-hps-feat-claire-davis">The HP&#39;s Feat Claire Davis by The HP&#39;s</a></iframe> The HP’s: Parkside Mike Renaud - Drums Danny Miles - Percussion Carl Jennings - Bass Scott McIntosh - Guitar Matthew Lederman - Guitar Jesse O’Brien - Organ Claire Davis - Lead Vocal Ernesto Barahona - Trombone Dennis Passley - Sax Tom Moffett -Trumpet

Next up on the LRK label is Bella Brown & The Jealous Lover - Get Mine / I'm Gone A Limited edition 7" that comes in a stunning picture sleeve. 300 copies only. LRK-14 Official release day: June 30th 2022 Pre-order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/get-mine-im-gone "Get Mine" is busy and bristling with big brass parts, funky percussion and some tasty Booker T style Hammond. - "JazzandSoulandFunk" "I'm Gone" The B side is more sombre, – Sonically, it might remind you of dear old Curtis circa ‘Superfly’ while the vocals betray Ms Brown’s love and respect for Sharon Jones.- "JazzandSoulandFunk" Audio Get Mine / I&#39;m Gone by Bella Brown & The Jealous Lovers MEET BELLA BROWN & THE JEALOUS LOVERS From Los Angeles, California Imagine a band that is Sharon Jones meets James Brown while putting a modern twist on 70s soul and funk music. Whether self composed original tracks or classic covers, Bella Brown & the Jealous Lovers capture an era boldly envisioned! Fronted by the wonderful Carol Hatchett- She is known as one of Bette Midler’s backup Singer/Dancers, the infamous “Harlettes” and has appeared in Bette’s Emmy Award-winning “Diva Las Vegas” HBO Special, “The Showgirl Must Go On” HBO Special and numerous music tours worldwide. Carol is also the backing singer for Nick Waterhouse. 1. Get Mine (3:29) Published by: Avenue J Music and Velvet Sundae Producer: Daniel Pearson Recorded at: Avenue J Music and Steakhouse Studio (Los Angeles) Mixed by: Lee Bench Mastered by JJ Golden Carol Hatchett aka Bella Brown: Lead and Background Vocals Jamila Ford: Background Vocals Lee Thornburg: Trumpet/Trombone Ron Dziubla: Tenor and Baritone Sax Kat Dyson: Guitars Matt Rhode: Keyboards Daniel Pearson: Bass Taku Hirano: Percussion Curt Bisquera: Drums Artwork: Nori Shirasu Photography: Walter Tabayoyong 2. I'm Gone (4:52) Hatchett/Pearson Published by: Avenue J Music and Velvet Sundae Producer: Daniel Pearson Recorded at: Avenue J Music (Los Angeles) Mixed by: Eric Racy Mastered by JJ Golden Carol Hatchett aka Bella Brown: Lead and Background Vocals The Regiment Horns Sean Erick: Trumpet Leon Silva: Tenor Sax Kevin Williams Trombone Kat Dyson: Guitars David DelHomme: Keyboards Daniel Pearson: Bass Taku Hirano: Percussion Chris Bailey: Drums Pre-order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/get-mine-im-gone

LRK Records are delighted to be able to reveal they will be releasing Raja-Nee Ft Thasaint & Wilfred Frelix "Come Get This Love" on LTD 7" black vinyl 300 copies. Official release day: 31st May 2022 Pre-order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/raja-nee-come-get-this-love-ft-thasaint-wilfred-frelix Raja-Nee’ has re-emerged from her musical hiatus with a new single “Come Get This Love” a midtempo classic with romantic lyrics, where listeners are treated to the smooth sounds of a classic pop piano performed by Smooth Jazz and Adult Contemporary R&B artist John “ThaSaint” Morris, layered with a plethora of buttery, bluesy guitar licks from Smooth Jazz guitarist Wilfred Frelix. “Come Get This Love” was produced by John “ThaSaint” Morris and Raja-Nee’, written by Richard Wilford & Raja-Nee’, John ThaSaint Morris and Wilfred Frelix. Mixed and mastered by Bernard Terry for Area 521 Studios, Flint MI. "Come Get This Love" was released orginally digitally back In September 2020 and did really over here in the UK getting to number one in the UK Soul charts for over two weeks and in the US and Italy. There was also a remix with Samuel Archer in July 2021. For the first time ever it will be coming out on a 45. Over on the flip is a BRAND new mix by The Packxsz. The romantic elements are reminiscent of the award-winning Chicago soul-R&B veteran’s material from back in the day. ‘I’m patiently waiting for you to take me away from here,’ sings the veteran neo soul artist born Renee Knott-Freeman. ‘It’s driving me crazy, anticipating how you’ll hold me so near.’ Raja-nee’ began singing in church at the mere age of five. As an emerging talent, her voice was recognized by Marshall Thompson of Chicago’s famed Chi-Lites, and his mentorship helped develop her craft and stage presence. She toured with the Chi-Lites, and recorded on their Just Say You Love Me album — with the single Eternity taking top spots on overseas radio stations. Years later, after garnering much attention for herself, Raja-nee’ landed a production deal and auditioned with the superproducers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. Her debut reggae album featured hits such as Bitchism, Take Your Time and Turn It Up — the latter featured on the soundtrack for the 1994 movie A Low Down Dirty Shame. Raja-nee’ has also recorded with the legendary James Brown and been awarded the Chicago Home Jam Award. Pre-order here: https://lrkrecords.bandcamp.com/album/raja-nee-come-get-this-love-ft-thasaint-wilfred-frelix