Victor Everton “Boa” McRae was a pianist from El Chorrillo and might be considered the godfather of Panamanian Jazz. He performed locally since the 1940’s with the likes of Gerry Mulligan, Woody Herman, and Charlie Parker.
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What you hear in this funky and low key track is what he termed “Tambo” or “Pana” Jazz. It was recorded in 1970 with his band Las Estrellas de Victor Boa, and I think it’s just a wonderful song that brings a smile to my face every time I hear it.

Former keyboardist, producer, and journalist Marc Moulin is considered one of Belgium’s Jazz legends. Over a nearly 40-year career, he was probably best known for his Synthpop group Telex, whose cheeky single "Moskow Diskow" reached #36 on the Billboard Hot Dance Club charts in the US.

I think his most interesting work was with the jazz-rock group Placebo (not to be confused with the British Alternative Rock band that would follow 23 years later). As with many Jazz musicians of the period, Moulin was also soloing over rock and funk rhythms. 

“Balek” is exactly that. Found on Placebo’s second album 1973 on CBS records, it’s a sturdy groove that just might melt your lava lamp.

Probably best known for “Mystery Train,” a song which Elvis Presley would cover to gain significant notoriety, Herman “Junior” aka “Little Junior” Parker was one of those raw talents taken away much too soon at the age of 39.

After leaving Sam Phillips and Sun Records, Parker and his band cut tracks for Don Robey’s newly acquired Duke Records. It was there that some of his finest work was recorded.

“I Wanna Ramble” is a prime example, proving The Blue Flame’s ability to shake down a good song. Recorded on June 10th 1954, it’s a carefree number showcasing Parker’s talent as a vocalist and songwriter.
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I adore the rawness of this track, with the piano barley legible, stuffed behind the guitar and reverb. It’s a song that boogie-woogies out the door.

​They are from Sweden; their label is Redmount Music, and this song is a thumping dream pop number that drives away the swirling winds of winter. I also can’t get this melody out of my head. I look forward to hearing more from this group.