New Islands is a new reissue arm from LA’s excellent Pleasure of Love label, and it launches with first ever 12″ vinyl and digital versions of Kim Yaffa’s long-lost gem of a single, ‘Once Bitten.’ Next to the original track, fresh remixes from Michael David and Nick the Record & Dan Tyler complete a standout inaugural package. Released in 1989, ‘Once Bitten’ is the lone single from Kim Yaffa, an LA singer once signed to the Hollywood indie label Macola Record Co. Not long after recording this single, Yaffa shelved her music career and moved on to other aspects of the business, but she has become a cult figure amongst those who knew her work. ‘Once Bitten’ has only ever been available on 7″ before now and is an effortlessly classy pop tune with hints of 80s blue-eyed soul and Sade-inspired sounds that lend it a timeless Balearic feel. DMCWorld goes Back to Mine with Kim Yaffa.
Angela Bofill – I Try
I was told by Jeff Lorber when he heard my first demo, that I sound like her.
Patti Austin – In My Life
I always listened to real singers.
Steely Dan – Dr. Wu
My favourite band of all time, hard to pick one song, but this is an important one for me.
Teena Marie – Portuguese Love
Again, a singer’s singer.
Spyro Gyra – Catching The Sun
I got very into Jazz thanks to this band. This one is my favourites.
Miki Howard – Baby Be Mine
Another great singer who I emulated on my ballads. So soulful.
Sade – Jezebel
We had similar vibes at the time, my favourite.
Lisa Stansfield – All Woman
I loved her voice.
Earth Wind and Fire – Spirit
The soundtrack of my youth!
Dr Dre – Let Me Ride
We were on Macola together for a min, have always loved this one.
Kim Yaffa ‘Once Bitten EP’ is released on March 8th 2024 on New Islands.
https://pleasureoflove.bandcamp.com/album/once-bitten
