Batov Records announce the release of Middle Eastern Grooves, a double-LP compilation of standout tracks from the label's highly successful series of 7" singles released under the same name, hand selected by label co-founder DJ Kobayashi. Spanning from 2015 to the present day, the compilation features a mix of classic favorites, new releases, and never-before-heard gems from some of the most talented emerging artists. Batov Records' Middle Eastern Grooves 7" series have become staples in the sets of DJs looking to broaden their sets to incorporate psychedelic and Middle Eastern sounds alongside the familiar funk, jazz, and soul catalogue.
The compilation opens with the desert funk sound of "Badawee" by the iconic producer and multi-instrumentalist, Kutiman, followed by the instrumental edit of "Ya Raiyat" by Tel Aviv digging pioneers Radio Trip. Other highlights include the deranged and spooky synths of "The Egyptian" by Baharat, a prime example of the label's core sound, the psychedelic Middle Eastern groove bomb "Deli Deli" by Şatellites, and "Nasnusa", Sababa 5's acclaimed collaboration with Japanese vocalist Yurika Hanashima. The compilation also includes some exclusive tracks, released here for the first time. Following their recent collaborative EP, Sababa 5 (BTR 065LP) back the newly discovered vocalist Shiran Tzfira with a simple but effective combo of synths and percussion on the haunting "Manginat Mahepeha". Şatellites band leader Itamar Kluger contributes "Saved From The Jazz" from his new psychedelic funk project Eje Eje. And finally, underground belly dancing princess turned Mediterranean psych chanteuse, Cherry Bandora, contributes the hypnotic "Esý".
This first volume of highlights from the Middle Eastern Grooves 7" series offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of the label's sound and its place in the wider musical context. From surf rock to Mediterranean psych, this collection showcases the diverse and captivating sounds of the Middle East and its influence on modern music. When he isn't managing Batov Records, DJ Kobayashi can be found digging for grooves and melodies that stand out from the norm, and sharing them at the likes of Brilliant Corners, Spiritland, and his biweekly show on Soho Radio. His vast collection spans funk and beats from across the globe, and reflects, of course, a particular predilection for Middle Eastern grooves. Also features El Khat, Boom Pam, Les Dynamites, Matan Caspi, Yossi Fine & Ben Aylon, Yuz, Romano, Buttering Trio, and Koy Kardeşler. Gatefold sleeve.
| A1 | Kutiman - Badawee |
| A2 | El Khat, Radio Trip - Ya Raiyat (Radio Trip Edit) |
| A3 | Boom Pam - Uniton |
| A4 | Baharat - The Egyptian |
| A5 | Les Dynamites - Pop Oud #2 |
| B1 | Sababa 5, Shiran Tzfira - Manginat Mahapeha |
| B2 | Sababa 5, Yurika Hanashima - Nasnusa |
| B3 | Sababa 5 - Baksheesh |
| B4 | Sababa 5 - Rosenzweig |
| C1 | Eje Eje - Saved from the Jazz |
| C2 | Yossi Fine, Ben Aylon - Peres |
| C3 | Yuz - Galgalit |
| C4 | Baharat - Parsley Disco |
| C5 | Lior Romano - Six |
| D1 | Buttering Trio - Little Goat (Iza Ktana) |
| D2 | Koy Kardeşler - Shürük |
| D3 | Şatellites - Deli Deli |
| D4 | Cherry Bandora - Esý |
