Mr Bongo

Mr Bongo Record label. Record store. Film label. DJ. Since 1989. Over the following years Bongo moved three times within Soho and opened in Shibuya, Japan.

We started life in 1989 as a small record shop underneath Daddy Kool’s Reggae Store on Berwick Street in London. We were the first shop to sell vinyl releases from independent hip hop labels such as Def Jam, Rawkus, Nervous and Big Beat outside of the USA. We also became an established bearer for hard-to-find, classic Latin music, particularly Brazilian, outside of the Americas. We moved our offic

es to Brighton in 1999 and closed all shops in 2003.

20+ years on we now have a recording roster featuring some of the best Brazilian, Latin, reggae, African and Jazz music by artists including Terry Callier, Jorge Ben, Joyce, Seu Jorge, Prince Fatty, Incredible Bongo Band and Marcos Valle. In 2004 we moved into world cinema, a venture that has grown to compliment the music. In keeping with the record label philosophy, we carefully select and source films from around the world and our catalogue now includes works by esteemed directors including Scorsese, Coppola, Has, Bertolucci, Rocha and Dovzhenko amongst others. We aim to unearth iconic, stylish, hard-to-find gems and cult classics and make them readily available to cinema lovers. We keep production costs relatively low by releasing the feature film without multiple extras allowing us to deliver the highest possible quality prints on DVD’s at the most competitive prices. We are modest compared to our competitors in the film world but hope that our rich history and knowledge has established us as an aficionado that punches above its weight (and is yet to reach its full potential). In 2011 we ventured into the realm of feature film production and theatrical releases with Justin Mitchell's Rio Breaks which premiered at the Odeon Leicester Square in June. We look forward to working on more projects like this. We also have a publishing arm with an in-house team that produces and licenses music for use by third parties. Our clients include advertising, film and TV companies around the world; brands such as Bacardi, Nike, Adidas, Fosters, Nissan and Guinness have used our music. We also deal with worldwide royalty collection for artists and organisations.

Three Brazilian selects from this week’s new additions to the store.First, present a brilliant reissue of the amazing m...
11/02/2025

Three Brazilian selects from this week’s new additions to the store.

First, present a brilliant reissue of the amazing multi-instrumentalist-vocalist Ana Mazzotti’s 1978 Italian vocal version of ‘Io Sono Io (Eu Sou Mais Eu)’ (restored from the original tape). Originally released on a 7” compact on GTA records. It also features the version of ‘Eu Sou Mais Eu’ from her 1977 album. Highly recommended!

Second, a much needed reissue by of Nara Leão’s beautiful double album ‘Dez Anos Depois’ from 1971. Featuring arrangements by Luiz Eça, Roberto Menescal & Rogério Duprat and the amazing vocalist Tuca.

Lastly, reissue Gerson King Combo’s Brazilian-funk / Black Rio classic from 1977. A timeless album full of dancefloor rhythms and bursting with energy.

Continuing our spotlight series called Favourite Finds, we ask some of our favourite DJs, collectors and selectors to te...
06/02/2025

Continuing our spotlight series called Favourite Finds, we ask some of our favourite DJs, collectors and selectors to tell us the story behind how they came across one of their most cherished records.

For the next instalment, we’ve asked digger, DJ, radio host and label owner, Stu Clark (), to step up to the plate.

Making up one half of with Matt Neale, now in their 16th year, Stu has been digging and DJing since he was a teen. Running an esteemed record label that’s clocked up over 100 releases and DJing round the world across the past 20 years, he’s amassed an enviable collection in that time. As at home spinning the deep dancefloor cuts, as he is weaving together modern soul and boogie, his taste is an eclectic spectrum of goodness.

Swipe for the story behind Stu’s Favourite Find…

ON ROTATION: This Friday we kick off a new series of Mr Bongo Record Club events at Tate Modern. Ahead of the night, Mr...
05/02/2025

ON ROTATION:

This Friday we kick off a new series of Mr Bongo Record Club events at Tate Modern. Ahead of the night, Mr Bongo’s very own Gareth Stephens has chosen 5 cheap digs that hit hard. “For this edition of On Rotation, rather than focusing on obscurity and rarities, I have chosen less rare but equally as great ‘cheap heat’ records, and all under £10.”

Swipe to see Gareth’s picks. Tell us your favourite ‘cheap heat’ finds in the comments, and we’ll pick out a winner at random to send a Mr Bongo x x Japan tour t-shirt + a copy of a Record Club Vol.7 as a prize.

Thanks to everyone that has pre-ordered a copy of the Presents Disco & Boogie From Brazil Vol.1 compilation on vinyl, C...
05/02/2025

Thanks to everyone that has pre-ordered a copy of the Presents Disco & Boogie From Brazil Vol.1 compilation on vinyl, CD or digital.

To celebrate this must-have compilation, there’s also a run of limited edition merch. Screen-printed on high quality Stanley Stella garments, the two t-shirts and sweatshirt are available as bundles with the green or black vinyl and as stand-alone pieces. Link in bio to pre-order.

Three fresh picks from the new additions to the store to kick off your weekend.First, present a much needed re-issue of...
31/01/2025

Three fresh picks from the new additions to the store to kick off your weekend.

First, present a much needed re-issue of Evinha’s highly in demand album ‘Cartão Postal’ from 1971. Includes the sublime masterpieces ‘Esperar Prá Ver’ & ‘Que Bandeira’. Big tip!!

Next, another huge release on . ‘Father Father’ by & The Perpetual Singers was one of our favourite releases of 2024. On this EP the mighty provide brilliant reworks of the title track and two other sensational songs.

Lastly, serve up a 7” issue of two silky smooth tracks by the cuIt soul artist Ike White! Highly recommended.

OUT TODAY: Project Gemini - Colours & Light (Deluxe Edition)As if ’s second album couldn’t get any better, today marks t...
31/01/2025

OUT TODAY: Project Gemini - Colours & Light (Deluxe Edition)

As if ’s second album couldn’t get any better, today marks the release of the Deluxe Edition. All twelve of the tracks from the original album, plus a brand-new, unreleased original song, alternate versions and remixes aplenty.

Project Gemini has drafted in four of his favourite artists and friends to reimagine tracks from the album. of / , producer / DJ , Mr Bongo favourite and the dynamic pairing of & aka , each provide their own refraction to the colours and light of the original songs, reshaping them in their own unique way.

Stream / download the full deluxe edition album now via the link in our bio.

Announcing the first single to be taken from bandmember, ’s forthcoming album. A dose of sun-drenched Balearic airiness...
30/01/2025

Announcing the first single to be taken from bandmember, ’s forthcoming album. A dose of sun-drenched Balearic airiness, mixed with a Brazilian boogie groove and city pop sensibilities, ‘Sou Fera’ is rich in the halcyon warmth of a beloved ‘80s mixtape.

“‘Sou Fera’ was created on the road, living the touring life. It reflects the present moment—the experience of being constantly in motion, discovering new cultures and places, but also dealing with the solitude and introspection that this lifestyle brings”, explains Julia.

Stream / download ‘Sou Fera’ now via the link in our bio. Worldwide release in partnership with Altafonte. Watch the official video to the single from 8pm (BRZ time) on YouTube.

29/01/2025

13 years in the making, Mr Bongo and proudly present a new compilation of beloved Brazilian disco and boogie finds.

A labour of love, it captures the excitement and sense of discovery that won over Horse Meat Disco’s heart when they first visited Brazil more than 20 years ago. Showcasing a tantalising cross-section of disco, funk, boogie, samba and MPB, the compilation unearths tracks from the seemingly endless gold mine of Brazilian gems. Featuring legends such as Jorge Ben, Gretchen, Marcos Valle and Robson Jorge & Lincoln Olivetti, alongside unsung heroes including Zé Carlos and Carlos Bivar.

Pre-order now on vinyl 2LP black, vinyl 2LP green, CD, digital (unmixed and mixed), alongside a selection of merch bundles via the link in our bio. Artwork by .studio. Shipping 21st March.

The first single Zé Carlos - Venha (Remix) is available digitally from today.

Next Friday marks the first in a new monthly series of Mr Bongo Record Club events at Tate Modern. Here’s some choice p...
28/01/2025

Next Friday marks the first in a new monthly series of Mr Bongo Record Club events at Tate Modern. Here’s some choice photos from the last time we guest DJ’d there for ’s birthday. We were instantly won over by the space and knew that it would make the perfect home for this series.

Expect deep digs and hidden treasures from all across the board, with special guests as the months progress. Kicking off with a Mr Bongo residents special 18:00-23:00 Friday 7th February, free entry - no ticket required. Link in bio for more info.

Photo credit:

Three fresh selects from this week’s new additions to the store.First up, another highlight of 2024 that has just arrive...
23/01/2025

Three fresh selects from this week’s new additions to the store.

First up, another highlight of 2024 that has just arrived on vinyl. A beautiful listen from start to finish, with this sublime collaboration between the amazing vocalist / songwriter and the Brazilian musicians .sessa.sessa, & friends.

Next, we managed to source a handful of copies off Chris, of the latest limited edition release on his Almost Unknown imprint. It’s a wonderful hypnotic album of deep techno, sparse dub, dense ambience, and fierce percussion that Gilles Peterson listed as one of his favourite albums of 2024.

Lastly, present a reissue of ’ breathtaking, Latin Grammy nominated long player ‘Recomeçar’ from 2017. A real favourite of ours here at Mr Bongo HQ!

Continuing our spotlight series called Favourite Finds, we ask some of our favourite DJs, collectors and selectors to te...
22/01/2025

Continuing our spotlight series called Favourite Finds, we ask some of our favourite DJs, collectors and selectors to tell us the story behind how they came across one of their favourite records.

For the next instalment, we’ve asked renowned DJ, producer, label owner and illustrious digger to tell us the story behind how he came across one of his favourite records.

Born in France yet spending many of his formative years in Hong Kong and Taiwan, Romain became a key figure in East Asia’s dance music scene. Connecting Asian artists to the world, he is founder of the award-winning collective and record label. An esteemed DJ and producer in his own right he has released on the likes of Permanent Vacation, Kalahari Oyster Cult, Live At Robert Johnson and most recently on with his global hit, Cantonese cover of Charlie’s Italo classic ‘Spacer Woman’.

Swipe for the story behind Romain’s Favourite Find…

Kicking off the week with a selection of incredible, ethereal albums from four fantastic harpists.Two certified classics...
20/01/2025

Kicking off the week with a selection of incredible, ethereal albums from four fantastic harpists.

Two certified classics come in the form of Alice Coltrane’s ‘A Monastic Trio’ and Dorothy Ashby’s ‘The Rubaiyat Of Dorothy Ashby’. Mesmerising must-haves from two all-time greats.

Turning the spotlight to the present day, ’s brilliant Christmas jazz harp album on and ’s stunning ‘Somewhere Different’ LP showcase two contemporary outings with their own distinct take on the harp.

Launching a brand new series of Mr Bongo events in collaboration with . Bringing to life the Mr Bongo Record Club series...
17/01/2025

Launching a brand new series of Mr Bongo events in collaboration with . Bringing to life the Mr Bongo Record Club series, this monthly run of free entry events will showcase the deep digs and cherry-picked finds of the Mr Bongo residents and a host of our favourite DJs.

Having guest DJ’d at the Tate Modern Corner bar for ’s birthday celebrations late last year, we were won over by the feel of the space and it became clear that another party was essential.

We’re kicking off with a Mr Bongo residents special on Friday 7th February, but expect a stellar cast of special guests to be joining as the year progresses. Free entry, no ticket necessary - link in bio for more info.

16/01/2025

A glimpse into the recording session for the strings on , and stunning collaborative track ‘Spring Has Sprung’. Recorded last year with a 20-piece Stockholm Studio Orchestra the results were simply breathtaking. This coming together of three of our favourite artists was an exclusive composition for Mr Bongo Record Club 7.

Swipe to hear the finished results and head to the link in our bio to order. For anyone in Stockholm SOYUZ will be performing live at on the 6th February.

Video credit: Sven Wunder

15/01/2025

Continuing our run of represses of some of the most sought-after and asked-for titles in our signature Brazil 45 catalogue, we present another four must-have Brazilian double headers.

Two outstanding boogie gems from Hanna and Almir Ricardi are paired together, the first of which was featured by DJ Koco in his incredible Brazil 45’s mix. Elsewhere, you’ll find a double dose of supreme MPB/bossa-nova cuts from the iconic, Claudia. Two tracks from Célia’s awesome, sought-after, second self-titled LP from 1972 are matched up, including a cover of Arthur Verocai and Vitor Martins’ ‘Na Boca Do Sol’. Finally, a pair of monster funk/bossa nova tracks from Rosa Maria take either side of a 7”.

Pre-order now on 7” vinyl, shipping 28th February:
https://www.mrbongo.com/collections/brazil-45s

14/01/2025

As part of ’s Colours & Light (Deluxe Edition), we’ve taken two of the exclusive tracks from the expanded digital release and pressed them on a limited run 7”.

This special vinyl pressing features a distortion-heavy, driving hit of mind-bending, progressive rock from ( / ) with his remix of ‘After The Dawn’. On the B side, a previously unreleased, original Project Gemini track ‘Darkness Rising’ that didn’t make it onto the album. It’s a sonic brew of synths, percussion and bass-heavy, psychedelic rock synergy, dosed up on wah-wah guitars.

Limited to 500 copies. Pre-order now, shipping 14th February to coincide with Project Gemini supporting on the first part of their UK tour.

Three fresh selects from the new additions to the store to kick off the week.First up, another standout album that would...
13/01/2025

Three fresh selects from the new additions to the store to kick off the week.

First up, another standout album that would have made our best of 2024 list if we’d had it landed earlier. An epic, lush cinematic soul / library-jazz journey from one of our favourite contemporary artists, the drummer and multi-instrumentalist, aka Oscar Robertson and a selection of his friends.

Second, an amazing album of warm jazz fusion by . Taking inspiration from ‘70s jazz experimentation of acts like Return to Forever, Weather Report, Soul Media, Herbie Hancock, and Lonnie Liston Smith with a Cortex vibe in places too. Limited edition pressing.

Lastly, Finland’s present a wonderful experimental album thats fuses a wandering mix of jazz, electronics, funk, dub, breaks & percussive trancey drumming by Pascal & Baya Rays. A limited numbered edition of 500 with a screenprinted cover.

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OUT TODAY: Project Gemini - After The Dawn (Large Plants Remix) / Darkness Rising - 7” Vinyl Fresh from supporting @thebrianjonestown, we release two of the exclusive tracks from @project_gemini_official’s Colours & Light (Deluxe Edition) on a special 7”. Limited to 500 copies, the A side features a Black Sabbath-esque, fuzz rock remix of ‘After The Dawn’ from @jackarthursharp (@wolfpeopleuk / @largeplantsband). On the flip, a previously unreleased, original Project Gemini track ‘Darkness Rising’. It’s a heavy psych-funk instrumental recorded during the ‘Colours & Light’ album session that features @kidvictrola @razman313 and Bert Page from @thecromagnonband. Order now on vinyl 7” via the link in our bio.

Announcing the next release on @lukeunabomber’s @esoulcultura label in partnership with Mr Bongo. A tripped-out, cosmic, Spanish language version of Jamie Principle & Frankie Knuckles’ all-time classic ‘Your Love’. Originally released as digital only in 2012 this is the first time it has ever been on 12” vinyl. This raw and unique cover version comes courtesy of Chilean DJ, producer and singer Mamacita and producer Persona RS. Recorded on lo-fi equipment, including an old Windows laptop and a borrowed Neumann microphone, it nods to the DIY ethos of the early Chicago productions. It’s a track that pricked the ears of house and Balearic connoisseurs in the UK, including the Idjut Boys yet never got the international attention it deserved. A serendipitous and separate tip given to Luke Una by his friend Michelle from Huddersfield and Steve KIW to Mr Bongo made it the perfect choice for the next É Soul Cultura release. On the B side, Luke and his good friend @lukesolomon serve up a new, extended, underground club re-edit accentuating the synths, echoing out elements and tweaking it for maximum dancefloor impact. Pre-order now on vinyl 12” and digital via the link in our bio. Shipping 14th March 2025.

OUT TODAY: The Original Sound Of Mali 2 Today marks the release of the second volume in our ‘Original Sound of Mali’ series. It’s another standout compilation of rare and lost gems from Mali’s inspirational musical legacy, curated by French writer, journalist and Grammy-nominated compiler Florent Mazzoleni and Mr Bongo’s David Buttle. Bringing together tracks from iconic artists and groups including Rail Band, Mystère Jazz de Tombouctou, Ousmane Kouyaté & Ambassadeurs Internationaux, Les Messagers du Mali and more. Order now on vinyl 2LP and CD, both of which include a booklet with extensive liner notes from Florent Mazzoleni.

A breathtaking version of @kamasiwashington’s ‘Knowledge’ performed by @finnrees and the orchestra he brought together to perform his debut album ‘Dawn Is A Melody’ live in Australia. Taken from their sold out show at the @thejazzlab, shot by @maxroux__ and edited and graded by Finn.

Out today, three more of the most sought-after titles in our signature Brazil 45 catalogue get a much deserved repress. First up, Marcio Lott’s super-rare, sun-kissed groover ‘Tema de Baby’ is paired with the samba-rock fusion flavours of Silvio Cesar ‘A Festa’. Next, Sonia Santos brings a slice of psychedelic samba, as the legend João Donato lays down a hypnotic, call and response cut on the flip. Finally, a double header taking in an iconic track from Georgette, long championed by Gilles Peterson and Four Tet and Floating Points favourite by Claudia. Order now on 7” vinyl via the link in our bio.

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