Description
Midwest Funk: Funk 45's From Tornado Alley collects some of the most obscure and hard-hitting soul and funk singles from the Midwest during the 1970s, a period when regional labels pressed limited-run 45s that often stayed within the local scene. This compilation brings together rare 45s from bands and artists who pushed the boundaries of groove, blending raw funk, vibrant horn sections, and heartfelt vocals. From the high-energy rhythms of The Us’ “Let’s Do It Today” to the smooth soul of Barbara Howard’s “I Don’t Want Your Love,” each track showcases a unique take on the era’s funk and soul landscape. The compilation features hard-to-find gems from artists including Markus Kelly & The Impassions, Harvey & The Phenomenals, The New Establishment In Soul, The Soul Tornadoes, and Dayton Sidewinders, among others. Bonus tracks include live and rare recordings from Billy Joe Holloman and Illinois Connection, adding extra depth for collectors. Midwest Funk captures the spirit of Tornado Alley’s underground music scene, presenting these lost treasures with care and reverence for the original recordings.
Tracklist:
1. The Us – Let’s Do It Today (Full Length Version)
2. Markus Kelly & The Impassions – Pushin’ To The Top
3. Harvey & The Phenomenals – Soul & Sunshine
4. The New Establishment In Soul – Whip It (Pt. 1)
5. Billy Ball & The Upsetters – Sissy Walk
6. The TMG's – The Hatch
7. Fred Williams & The Jewels Band – Tell Her
8. Wanda Davis – Save Me
9. The Fabulous Originals – It Ain’t Fair, But It’s Fun (Pts. 1 & 2)
10. Barbara Howard – I Don’t Want Your Love
11. The Personations – Future II
12. Chocolate Snow – A Day In The Life
13. Henry Peters & The Imperials – Master Groove
14. People In The News – Color Me
15. The Chefs – Mr. Machine (Pts. 1 & 2)
16. Messengers Incorporated – Soulful Proclamation
17. Dayton Sidewinders – Funky In Here
18. The Soul Tornadoes – Boot’s Groove
19. The Wallace Brothers – What-cha Feel Is What-cha Get
20. Earl English & The Apaches – Trying To Make Ends Meet
21. Epitaph – Epitaph Movement
Bonus Tracks
22. Billy Joe Holloman – It’s Not You For Me (Live)
23. Illinois Connection – Po’ Boy’s Dream
If you want, I can also make an even more “Now-Again Records style” version that leans heavier on storytelling and the rarity of the 45s, like they do for all their archival funk releases. Do you want me to do that?
