Similar to last year’s Colin Curtis Presents: Indigo Jam Unit EP, which was a single artist focused compilation, Paul Murphy and his superb Jazz Room Records label is highlighting the Japanese jazz ensemble Copa Salvo with a new release featuring arguably some of the group’s best material taken from their three albums.

This brilliant nine track recording spans choice selections from Copa Salvo’s 2002-2006 material, which included full-length releases Copa Salvo (2002), Loveletter From Far East (2006), and Mango-Ology (2006). Upon their initial releases, these albums were issued in small quantities, with Loveletter From Far East being the only one pressed on vinyl.

The group’s unique percussion layered sound spans everywhere from Latin jazz dance to Afro-Cuban and Boogaloo grooves, to J-Jazz, funk, 70’s action soundtrack vibes and just about everything in-between. This release includes the band’s most notable dancefloor gem, “Hasta la Victria Siempre”, which was also included on BBE’s If Music compiled compilation, A Journey Into Deep Jazz Vol. 3.

Paul was first introduced to the group’s music after visiting the If Music Store, when founder Jean-Claude brought it to his attention. This sparked Paul’s interest in the band, which eventually led to him tracking down all of their sparse catalogue, which eventually led to this retrospective release.

Great from start to finish, this record does an exceptional job of highlighting some of the group’s standout material, along with showcasing the expansive nature of their sound. To quote what Jean-Claude said to Paul Murphy that day he visited the If Music Store, “You NEED this!”.

Copa Salvo — Paul Murphy Presents Copa Salvo
(Jazz Room Records)

1. Hasta la Victria Siempre
2. The Deserted Town
3. Eastern Folktale
4. Moonlight & Shade
5. Tong King Rock
6. Bolivia ’67
7. Mindful
8. Jump Up Life
9. Period Especial

BUY RECORD

• Compilation
• Jazz
• Jazz Dance
• Latin