Name: Return To The 37th Chamber
Brand: El Michels Affair

Bonus disc

Bonus disc: No

Catalogue number

bc017lp

{"blocks": [{"data": {"text": "bc017lp"}, "type": "paragraph"}]}

Colour

Colour details

Discogs ID

Format multiplier

Download code

Download code: No

Rough Trade Exclusive

Rough Trade Exclusive: No

Extended format

Extended format: No

Format detail

Format Music GB

Limited edition

Release date

2017-04-28

Signed copies

Signed copies: No

Supplier GB

Cargo

Tax rate GB

Standard:20

UPC / Barcode

349223001716

{"blocks": [{"data": {"text": "349223001716"}, "type": "paragraph"}]}

Total Cap

1 / Extended format: No / LP / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No

bc017cd

{"blocks": [{"data": {"text": "bc017cd"}, "type": "paragraph"}]}

2017-04-14

349223001723

{"blocks": [{"data": {"text": "349223001723"}, "type": "paragraph"}]}

1 / CD / Extended format: No / Rough Trade Exclusive: No / Signed copies: No

Artist

El Michels Affair

Genre GB

Funk / Soul

Label GB

Big Crown

Big Crown Records is a Brooklyn based independent record label started in 2016 by Leon Michels & Danny Akalepse. With a focus on soul, funk, and R&B music, Big Crown has quickly gained recognition for its high-quality releases and commitment to preserving the sound of classic genres.

The label's founders, Leon Michels and Danny Akalepse, bring decades of experience in the music industry to their work at Big Crown. Michels is a renowned producer and multi-instrumentalist who has worked with artists such as Lee Fields and Sharon Jones. Akalepse is a respected DJ and collector known for his deep knowledge of rare records.

Since its inception, Big Crown Records has released albums from an impressive roster of talented artists including *Lee Fields*, *The Shacks*, *Bacao Rhythm & Steel Band*, and many more. The label prides itself on working closely with its artists to create unique and authentic music that resonates with listeners.

New York City based Funk/Soul instrumental band founded by Leon Michels in 2005.
El Michels Affair is a renowned Funk/Soul instrumental band hailing from the vibrant city of New York. With their unique blend of groovy melodies and soulful tunes, they have captivated audiences since their inception in 2005. Led by the talented musician Leon Michels, this band has become synonymous with exceptional musicality and infectious rhythms. Their music transcends boundaries and takes listeners on a captivating journey through the realms of funk and soul. Experience the magic of El Michels Affair as they transport you to a world filled with irresistible beats and timeless melodies.
Step into the mesmerizing world of El Michels Affair, a sensational Funk/Soul instrumental band that originated in the heart of New York City. Founded by the gifted musician Leon Michels in 2005, this group has been enchanting audiences with their incredible musical prowess ever since. Immerse yourself in their signature blend of groovy melodies and soulful tunes that are sure to leave you craving for more. With each performance, El Michels Affair effortlessly showcases their unrivaled talent and passion for creating unforgettable music experiences.

Back In Stock

The wait is over, Return To The 37th Chamber is El Michels Affair’s highly anticipated follow up to 2009's underground cult classic Enter the 37th Chamber. Churning out classic records since then for the likes of Lee Fields, The Arcs, The Shacks, and tons more, it is clear that EMA's signature sound is stronger and sharper than ever. This time, in addition to re-interpreting the Wu compositions for a live band, EMA pays homage to the production and sonic fog that makes a RZA beat so recognizable. Producer and bandleader Leon Michels recorded the album completely analog, sometimes hitting 6 generations of tape before it was ready for mixing, giving the Return to The 37th Chamber it’s own hazy sound. Adding to the unique fidelity, the record is laced with psychedelic flourishes, “John Carpenter” synths, heavy metal guitars, triumphant horns, and traditional Chinese instruments that make up for the lack of the Wu’s superlative vocals. From start to finish it’s a dark trip that walks the line between RZA’s timeless hip-hop aesthetic and the cinematic soul EMA has become known for. El Michels Affair tackles some classics like 4th Chamber and Wu Tang Aint Nuthin to Fuck Wit, as well as some deeper cuts like Ol Dirty Bastard’s Snakes, Raekwon’s Verbal Intercourse, and Shaolin Brew, Wu-Tang’s contribution to the St. Ide’s Hip Hop endorsement campaign from 1994. This time El Michels brings some of the Big Crown family along for the ride. Lee Fields handles vocal duties on Snakes and is joined by Shannon Wise of The Shacks for their version of Tearz, which pays as much homage to the Wendy Rene sample as it does to the Wu-Tang Clan. Lady Wray makes an appearance on the cover of Method Man’s hit, All I Need, lending her vocal prowess to what gave the Wu one of their biggest hits of all time. Interspersed throughout the record are some original interludes that are like the “rug that ties the room together,” giving Return To The 37th Chamber a cinematic narrative that makes it a proper El Michels Affair record and not just a collection of covers. From the music to the presentation, this album is a perfect example of what can only be achieved through diversity. The end result is as much a kaleidoscope of influences and multiculturalism as the city it was recorded in. El Michels Affair is once again, “sounding out the city” that raised them, pulling elements of art and culture from across the country and around the globe to create an album truly unique in it’s own right.

Return To The 37th Chamber

Music GB