November: 7 disco releases you need to hear this month

Ryle 'Something’s Got Me Walkin On Air' (Sedsoul)

This is the standout track from Cool Million man Ryle’s new album ‘The Adventures of Jefferson Keyes’, and with his classic production and the incredible vocals from singer Kiki Kyte you could be fooled into thinking it’s a lost gem from the vaults. She’s previously been in the shadows as a backing singer for Chaka Khan, The Mary Jane Girls and Evelyn Champagne King, but this might be her chance to shine.

10/10

Maajo 'Tropic Of Tulli' (Queen Nanny)

Producer Herman Prime has expanded his original project Maajo into a five-piece band in order to bring us this joyful album that explores the depths of Afro-centric magic, full of mid-tempo groovers and tropical delights. The biggest cut is ‘Okudu’, which is a total boogie-disco party number from the off with dancing rhythms, an elastic bassline and floating hi-life guitars throughout.

8/10

Reverso 68 'Buzara' (Music For Swimming Pools)

Music For Swimming Pools’ first EP features London’s Balearic Disco duo Reverso 68, aka Pete Herbert and Phil Mison. These two know a thing about rocking a sunset session, and they’ve brought those talents to ‘Buzara’: it’s the perfect tool and a pleasant ode to the raw synthesis of early house, with a feel that takes you back to a time when records like ‘Last Rhythm’ ruled the dance floor (albeit now with a nu-disco groove constructed around a driving Flamenco guitar).

9/10

Various 'Riot In Lagos' (Midnight Riot)

The latest Midnight Riot compilation heads to the heart of Africa. The strongest track here, FSQ’s ‘Shaking My Damn Head’ featuring Talking Heads and Sting collaborator Dolette McDonald on her first release in 30 years, is about as authentic as it gets. It’s a beautifully constructed song built around relentless polyrhythms, tricky guitar interplay and bouncy bassline weirdness, all garnished by McDonald’s vocal.

9/10

Situation 'Visions' (Nang Records)

West Country crew Situation have been banging them out since 2008, with each subsequent release highlighting the serious talent they have to offer. Their latest effort, ‘Midnight’, is no exception. The main structure of the track, is built around future garage drums and a heavy synth hook that’s totally Larry Heard, while Lauren Rimell’s vocals are raised high enough in the mix and tinted with just the right amount of verb to give the whole thing a spooky and spine-tingling vibe.

8/10

Mozez 'Run River' (Ray Mang’s Extended Vocal mix) (Mangled)

Jamaican-born soul singer and Zero 7 collaborator Mozez had seemingly disappeared, but after a nine-year hiatus he’s finally back. ‘Run River’, from his latest album ‘Wings’, gets the remix treatment from Ray Mang, with the producer tearing it up but still but keeping things soulful by adding Philly-style drums and a gospel arrangement that’s gonna take you somewhere high and mighty. It’s easily one the best tracks we’ve heard this month – and it might turn out to be one of the year’s finest, too.

10/10

Kimo Rizky 'Haven' (Fingerman’s rework) (Hot Digits)

Kimo Rizky is a rising star from Indonesia who has previously released on the legendary Paper Recordings, and whose new EP is a hazy Balearic masterpice. Label boss Fingerman adds some disco tweaks and tasty little production touches to standout dancefloor jam ‘Haven’, letting the vocals and guitars to shine. This one’s perfect for those late-season terrace parties.

8/10