Be With Records presents a reissue of Nick Ingman's Distinctive Themes/Race To Achievement, originally released in 1976. Distinctive Themes/Race To Achievement is legendary arranger Ingman exploring the two distinct ideas of "impressive themes varying in style from Basie to Elgar" and "a study in the pressure and rewards of achievement". Distinctive Themes is a veritable indulgence of variously-tempoed, full orchestra, big band workouts, from relaxed swing to more propulsive themes. The progressively building "Expanding Markets" is a true highlight, with its rolling pianos, contemplative electric guitar solos and moody horns over skipping beats. The dramatic "Against The Odds" is another stand-out. Race To Achievement is all rugged funk with stabbing chords and strutting horns. One has to acknowledge the fantastic "Tense Preparation", sampled by Prince Paul and Dan The Automator for Handsome Boy Modeling School's seminal "Magnetizing" with Del Tha Funky Homosapien. But the whole side's range from tense underscores to fast and punchy chase themes makes this a gem of the KPM catalog. Be With has worked with the hallowed KPM to re-issue ten of our favorites from across the KPM 1000 Series and the Themes International Music catalogue, currently under KPM stewardship. Whether it's killer soul-funk, sweet jazz-samba, scuzzed-up guitars or accidental Balearic beauty, these records include some of the most innovative work from some of the most talented composers and musicians of the 20th century. These records were never readily available, being originally released as a ready-made, affordable alternative to commissioning music for television and radio. Consequentially the originals have been unobtainable for decades by all but the most dedicated collectors. The audio for all ten re-issues comes from the original analog tapes and has been remastered for vinyl by Be With regular Simon Francis. The same care has been taken with the sleeves, handing the reproduction duties over to Richard Robinson, the current custodian of KPM's brand identity. 180 gram vinyl.
| Distinctive Themes |
| A1 | Happy To Be Alive |
| A2 | Basie 77 |
| A3 | It's Easy |
| A4 | Expanding Markets |
| A5 | Land Of Opportunity |
| A6 | Against The Odds |
| A7 | Ooops! |
| A8 | Pride In Purpose |
| Race To Achievement |
| B1 | Winner Takes All - Opening |
| B2 | Winner Takes All - Closing |
| B3 | The Road Forward - Opening |
| B4 | The Road Forward - Closing |
| B5 | Trademark |
| B6 | Tense Preparation |
| B7 | Light Preparation |
| B8 | Under Pressure |
| B9 | Speedway |
| B10 | Double Quick |
| B11 | Made It |
| B12 | Pick Up |
| B13 | Accolade |
