1619 Bad Ass Band - 1619 Bad Ass Band (2026 Reissue) (1LP)

Mr Bongo presents a reissue of the 1619 Bad Ass Band's self-titled album, originally released in 1976 on the ultra-rare tax-scam imprint TSG Records.

Formed by Khalid Abdul Shalid, the record was the only album released by the group, and has since become a mythical, highly sought- after prize for collectors and DJs, ranking among the most coveted albums on the 1970s rare soul scene.

This New Jersey soul-funk gem captures the raw energy of mid-'70s underground funk and soul. Its journey began in relative obscurity having been released on TSG, one of several US "tax-scam" labels operating at the time. These labels exploited loopholes in the tax system by inflating production costs to create write-offs against their tax bills, meaning commercial success was never the objective. Records were often pressed in extremely limited quantities, with little to no promotion or distribution and in many cases, artists were unaware their music had even been released. While this led to the 1619 Bad Ass Band's album slipping into obscurity upon release, it later cemented its status as a holy grail for diggers and DJs. Unfortunately, like many releases of its kind, it also meant the band never received the recognition they deserved at the time.

Musically, the album is a unique listen with a varied palette that will appeal to fans of a broad range of tastes. From the luscious, dreamy ballad 'Rain', which will melt even the stoniest of hearts, to the raw, drum-heavy funk of 'Love To Love', it showcases the group's depth and versatility. Highlights include the string-laden, floaty stepper 'Just From You', and 'Nothing Can Stop My Loving You', with its spacey synth lines, which will be a joy for modern soul fans.

1. Love To Love
2. I Am Mine
3. Step Out
4. Where Do I Go From Here
5. Nothing Can Stop My Loving You
6. Just For You
7. Rain (Always Finds Me Crying)
8. For A Taste Of Your Love
9. Nobody