CDs + Vinyl:
Airway – Live At Mark Moore Gallery CD (Helicopter)
Airway began as a solo project of Los Angeles Free Music Society member Joe Potts. The first release was the Airway 7”, which featured subliminal messages to coincide with an art exhibition in Tokyo. Since their August 1978 live debut at the LACE Gallery, the group has performed many concerts with different large lineups, always with Joe Potts’ subliminal message experiments as a central feature. Airway’s Live At LACE LP, first released in 1978, and introduced to Japan by Takuya Sakaguchi, was a direct influence on the projects Hijokaidan and Merzbow.
Avett Brothers – Live, Vol. Four CD+DVD (Republic)
Continuing the tradition of official concert releases, Live, Vol. Four captures last year’s sold out New Year’s Eve concert in Raleigh, NC at PNC Arena. This set contains two new songs; “Satan Pulls The Strings,” and “Rejects In The Attic.” Vinyl edition (and a new Avett Brothers LP!) due sometime in 2016.
Baroness – Purple CD/LP+MP3 (Abraxan Hymns)
Baroness return with their first new music in three years. (Limited copies pressed on purple colored vinyl.) “These are some of the biggest, strongest songs that Baroness has written; it’s rock music that folds in their more metal leanings, along with something more delicate and spare. The hooks and melodies are their best.” [BNM] –Pitchfork
Chris Brown – Royalty CD (RCA)
For his seventh album, Brown enlisted producers such as Boi1da, Polow Da Don, Free School, Tone & The Aquarius, Vinylz and many others. Available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe adds bonus tracks.
Cage The Elephant – Tell Me I’m Pretty CD/LP (RCA)
“Cage The Elephant found great success with 2013’s Melophobia, which nabbed for a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Album. The Kentucky garage rockers are hoping to garner similar acclaim for their follow-up, titled Tell Me I’m Pretty. The new record, which was produced by former tour mate Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys/The Arcs, was recorded at Easy Eye Sound in Nashville and ‘draws from the sounds that initially inspired them to start making music.’” – Consequence Of Sound
Coheed And Cambria – The Color Before The Sun [Deluxe] 2xCD+DVD+7”+MP3 (300 Entertainment)
Deluxe box set edition of Coheed And Cambria’s recently released new album includes a bonus disc of demos, a making-of-the-album documentary DVD, a 7” single, two hardcover coffee table books, and other collectable trinkets. Following the conceptual double album, The Afterman: Ascension and Descension, released in 2012 and 2013 respectively, The Color Before The Sun is the first non-conceptual album the band has released, making it the only Coheed And Cambria album to not be a part of The Amory Wars storyline.
Robert Cray – Time Will Tell [Reissue/2003] CD (Sanctuary)
CD reissue of this 2003 album from the modern bluesman.
Maynard Ferguson – Storm [Reissue/1983] CD (Omnivore)
Maynard Ferguson – Live From San Francisco [Reissue/1985] CD (Omnivore)
After moving to the US from Canada in the 1940s, Maynard Ferguson gained prominence through his association with Stan Kenton in the following decade. Striking out on his own, he appeared on numerous film soundtracks (including The Ten Commandments), eventually forming his own band. A relocation to England in the 1960s, he became a fixture on the BBC’s Simon Dee Show before returning to America later that decade, scoring pop hits and playing the closing ceremonies at Montreal’s 1976 Olympic Games. But, those who had followed his career longed for him to return to classic jazz and fusion. In 1983, Ferguson did just that with Storm. That same year he performed at The Great American Music Hall in San Francisco on May 27, 1983, which was officially released a few years later but has been out-of-print for decades.
The Gories – I Know You Fine, But How You Doin’/Houserockin’ [Reissue/1989/1990] CD (Crypt)
The Gories – Outta Here [Reissue/1992] CD (Crypt)
CD (digipak) reissues of the garage rock band’s first three albums.
Kid Cudi – Speedin’ Bullet 2 Heaven 2xCD (Republic)
“Cudder’s sixth studio effort is a hard left turn more than a departure — the sound has a precedent in 2012’s WZRD, which was presented as a side project with longtime collaborator Dot da Genius. Cudi’s experimentation with mind-altering substances has been part of his DNA since day one; alienation and internal turmoil remain integral parts of his motif. But Speedin’ is more well-formed than anything he’s done before in his genre experimentation, even eliciting a throwback to MTV’s ‘90s heyday down to its running commentary from Beavis And Butthead, courtesy of Mike Judge. The album wouldn’t sound out of place on a re-airing of Alternative Nation, and it’s a smart move — by embracing punk mores, Cudi sidesteps deep scrutiny. Speedin’ is about message, not methodology: expression, not execution” – Billboard. (Vinyl edition TBA.)
King Crimson – Thrak [Reissue/1995] CD+DVD-Audio (Discipline Global Music)
A new ’21st century stereo reimagining’ of Thrak by Jakko Jakszyk and Robert Fripp, with accompanying DVD-Audio disc featuring 5.1 surround sound and hi-res stereo mixes by Jakszyk and Fripp, alongside a hi-res of the original album stereo mix. Digipak in slipcase with booklet with sleeve notes, rare photos and archive material.
Loretta Lynn – Van Lear Rose [Reissue/2004] CD (Third Man)
Jack White’s collaboration with the country music legend is back in print on CD. Vinyl reissue due January 8.
Lynyrd Skynyrd – Twenty [Reissue/1997] CD (Sanctuary)
Lynyrd Skynyrd – Edge Of Forever [Reissue/1999] CD (Sanctuary)
Lynyrd Skynyrd – Then & Now [Reissue/2000] CD (Sanctuary)
CD reissues — Twenty marked the 20th year following the tragic 1977 plane crash, and it is also notably the fifth record the group has released since reuniting in the late ’80s. Edge Of Forever is the band’s tenth album, while Then And Now features live versions older Skynyrd favorites plus studio tracks from the reunited post-crash line-up. “While there are those who feel that Lynyrd Skynyrd died with the plane crash of 1977, one listen to Edge Of Forever proves that their legacy is alive and well in 1999, and Lynyrd Skynyrd has more than a few good ideas left in their collective head.” — AllMusic
Cass McCombs – A Folk Set Apart CD/LP+MP3 (Domino)
The Cass McCombs’ anthology, A Folk Set Apart, is subtitled Rarities, B-Sides & Space Junk, Etc. which is, on the surface, true but it’s so much more than that. It’s an alternate retelling of the last decade and a half of an enigmatic career built on immaculate songwriting but short on “breakthrough success.” While it contains none of McCombs’ better known songs from his seven full-lengths, he would have you believe this is his favorite album.
Monica – Code Red CD (RCA)
The R&B singer/songwriter’s eighth album includes the club-banging title cut “Code Red” (featuring Missy Elliott), “Just Right For Me” (featuring Lil Wayne and Laiyah), “Love Just Ain’t Enough” (featuring Timbaland) and “Hustler’s Ambition” (featuring Akon).
Miranda Mulholland – Whipping Boy CD (Fontana North)
Solo full length debut by this key member of Great Lake Swimmers and Belle Starr. Recorded in Los Angeles and Toronto with Sean Watkins (Nickel Creek), Whipping Boy features Miranda’s skilled singing and fiddle playing and includes cameos by Greg Leisz, Natalie Haas and Burke Carroll as well as members of Belle Starr.
New Order – Tutti Frutti CDEP/12” (Mute)
The second single from New Order’s recent album Music Complete features a remix by Hot Chip.
NxWorries – Link Up & Suede CD (Stones Throw)
“You may know Los Angeles singer Anderson .Paak from show-stealing appearances on Dr. Dre’s Compton album. You might recognize Cali producer Knxwledge from the credits of Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly, where he contribute the milky slow motion soul of ‘Momma.’ Together they are NxWorries, and they’ve just released a debut EP called Link Up & Suede after the two whip smart hip-hop soul cuts ‘Link Up’ and ‘Suede’ that anchor it.” – Noisey (Music By Vice)
Oblivians – Soul Food [Reissue/1995] CD (Crypt)
Oblivians – Popular Favorites [Reissue/1996] CD (Crypt)
CD (digipak) reissues of the Memphis garage punk trio’s first two albums. (Soul Food has been expanded with bonus cuts from the long-outta-print Strong Come On 7”.)
Pantera – The Complete Studio Albums 1990-2000 5xCD/5xLP+7” (Rhino/Atlantic)
This box set collects Cowboys From Hell (1990), Vulgar Display Of Power (1992), Far Beyond Driven (1994), The Great Southern Trendkill (1996), and Reinventing The Steel (2000). (The colored vinyl box set edition includes a bonus 7” featuring the non-LP tracks “Piss” and “Avoid The Light.”)
Pusha T – King Push – Darkest Before Dawn: The Prelude CD (G.O.O.D. Music/Def Jam)
New album featuring appearances from Kanye West, A$AP Rocky, The-Dream, Kehlani, Beanie Sigel, Jill Scott, and more. Album single “Crutches, Crosses, Caskets” was produced by Puff Daddy, Da Honorable C.N.O.T.E., Ke’noe, and Mario Winans.
Rufus – Rufus [Reissue/1973] CD (Geffen)
Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan – Rags To Rufus [Reissue/1974] CD (Geffen)
Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan – Rufusized [Reissue/1974] CD (Geffen)
Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan – Rufus Featuring Chaka Khan [Reissue/1975] CD (Geffen)
Rufus & Chaka Khan – Ask Rufus [Reissue/1977] CD (Geffen)
Japanese remastered reissues packaged in miniature LP gatefold sleeves.
Savage Beliefs – Big Big Sky: A Recorded History Of Savage Beliefs CD/LP (Alona’s Dream)
Recorded between 1983-1984, Big Big Sky collects the entire recorded output of Chicago punk legends Savage Beliefs, including their long out-of-print 7” EP from 1983, The Moral Efficiency Of Savage Beliefs, and the group’s two 1984 sessions, both of which were recorded by Iain Burgess. The first session from 84 was recorded for the score of Savage Beliefs, The Movie and has remained unreleased until now. The tracks from the second session in 84 appeared on the classic hardcore WNUR Middle Of America compilation. Transferred from the original master tapes by Steve Albini.
Soundtrack – Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight CD (Verve)
Ennio Morricone scored Tarantino’s latest film, and is featured prominently on this soundtrack along with incidental dialogue and Roy Orbison’s “There Won’t Be Many Coming Home.”
Soundtrack – Star Wars: The Force Awakens CD (Walt Disney)
A Star Wars soundtrack without John Williams is like Disney World without Mickey Mouse.
Various Artists – 30th Century Records Compilation, Volume 1 CD/LP (Columbia)
In the summer of 2015, Brian Burton (aka Danger Mouse) announced details about 30th Century Records, his imprint in collaboration with Columbia Records. A psychedelic mosaic with international scope, 30th Century Records Compilation Volume I touches both future and classic sounds from the sun-drenched shores of Brazil to the murky depths of Glasgow. Dan Auerbach’s blistering riffage in The Arcs, and Autolux’s arty experimentalism are featured alongside Sam Cohen’s rough-hewn authenticity and emotive rockers from newcomers like Nine Pound Shadow and Waterstrider. Compiled by Danger Mouse, this album finds guitar music alive and well from the garage to the depths of space. The compilation also features a brand new track from Autolux as well as an exclusive track from Dan Auerbach’s project, The Arcs.
Various Artists – Senegal 70: Sonic Gems & Previously Unreleased Recordings From The ‘70s CD (Analog Africa)
An insight into the musical adventures that were taking place in the major Senegalese cities during the ’60s and ’70s. This compilation reflects the unique fusions of funk, mbalax, son cubano, and Mandingue guitar sounds that transformed Dakar into West Africa’s most vibrant city. Vinyl edition due January 22.
Various Artists – The Wiz Live! Original Soundtrack Of The NBC Television Event CD (Masterworks)
Rising star Shanice Williams leads an all-star cast featuring Queen Latifah (The Wiz), Mary J. Blige (Evillene), David Alan Grier (Cowardly Lion), Ne-Yo (Tin Man), Elijah Kelley (Scarecrow), Uzo Aduba (Glinda), Amber Riley (Addaperle), Common (Bouncer), Stephanie Mills (Auntie Em) and Circque du Soliel.
Mary Watterson and David A. Jaycock – Two Wolves CD (One Little Indian)
“Two Wolves is the new album by Marry Waterson, made in collaboration with multi-instrumentalist David A. Jaycock, with contributions from Neill MacColl (guitars, six-string bass) and Kate St. John (piano, oboe, cor anglais, accordion). It’s an intriguing and absorbing combination of a diverse range of talents and listening to it is like opening an elaborately-wrapped package in a musical game of pass-the-parcel with each layer, each successive play, revealing a new and unexpected facet. Two Wolves is a superb album, one of the year’s best, with each of its songs brimming with nuance and depth. Although covering some deeply personal subjects, Marry’s skills as a singer, lyricist and, above all, a story-teller bring a very human touch, enabling the songs to maintain their focus and intensity without overwhelming the listener. David’s compositions are beguiling and inventive, providing the ideal musical foil, both for Marry’s compelling voice and Kate’s subtle arrangements.” – Stress Witch
DVDs + Blu-ray:
Placebo – MTV Unplugged DVD/Blu-ray (UMe)
On the 19th of August, Placebo performed a one-off show for MTV Unplugged at the London Studios in the UK. 17 tracks, 120 minutes.
Various Artists – Unity: The Latin Tribute To Michael Jackson DVD (PBS)
The passion project of Peruvian-born, Miami-raised producer/multi-instrumentalist/arranger Tony Succar, Unity features more than 100 musicians, such Latin superstars as Judith Hill, Jon Secada, and Obie Bermúdez in the first ever Latin album salute to The King of Pop.
This Week’s Vinyl Exclusives:
Rayland Baxter – Feathers & Fishhooks LP (ATO)
Released last August on CD – now available on vinyl. Debut full-length album from the emerging Nashville singer/songwriter. “Rayland Baxter may boast an impressive musical pedigree—his father, Bucky, played pedal steel guitar for Dylan in the ‘90s and has appeared on albums by R.E.M., Steve Earl, and Ryan Adams, amongst others—but he’ll be the first to tell you that music came to him at a later age. An athlete throughout his teenage years (he played lacrosse at Loyola University Maryland), the singer sidestepped the family business until his early 20s, when he left college and began busking for tips in small-town Colorado. Now 28 and rooted firmly back in his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, Baxter [releases] his debut album, Feathers & Fishhooks. While the collection’s title underscores the carefree attitude of a recreation angler with a proclivity for the good life, its 12 tracks (which get a boost from the multi-instrumental talents of Baxter senior) betray the studied, well-worn maturity of a songwriter who has done his fair share of living.” — Billboard
Blackalicious – Imani Vol.1 Instrumentals 2xLP (Black Mines)
Instrumental version of the fourth studio album (and first in a decade) by the hip-hop duo.
The Black Crowes – Shake Your Money Maker [Reissue/1990] LP (American)
The Black Crowes – The Southern Harmony And Musical Companion [Reissue/1992] 2xLP (American)
The Black Crowes – Amorica [Reissue/1994] 2xLP (American)
The Black Crowes – Three Snakes And One Charm [Reissue/1996] 2xLP (American)
HQ-180gm vinyl reissues now available.
Butcher – Holding Back The Night LP (Butcher)
“The beast is back! Jack Control (The World Burns To Death, Severed Head Of State) and Butcher have set a ridiculously high standard with this breath-taking debut album. Holding Back The Night represents an unexpected and fresh direction for underground hardcore punk. Butcher remix elements of classic Japanese punk and USHC into an original 21st century blend complete with poignant, timeless lyrics, driving riffs, and amazing artwork courtesy of Tomohiro Matsuda (Lipcream, SOB, etc.). Butcher’s exhilarating vision of hardcore provides a breath of fresh air and quite possibly a new way forward.”—Cvlt Punk
The Cadillac Three – The Cadillac Three LP (Big Machine)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. While The Cadillac Three, formally The Cadillac Black, whose members include native Nashvillians Jaren Johnston, Neil Mason and Kelby Ray have been friends and musical co-conspirators since they were kids. They’ve weathered their wild teenage years and even wilder tours, weathered major label letdowns, major league triumphs and a major name change, conquered Music Row – Johnston co-wrote Keith Urban’s #1 single “You Gonna Fly” – and crashed on the couches of strangers in far flung cities. These boys have seen more ups and downs than a Smoky Mountain tour guide. But in spite of all the trials and tribulations – or perhaps because of them – The Cadillac Three have emerged with a sound all of their own, a sound that hovers between radio-ready country anthems, hard-and-heavy rock and traditional Southern folk.
Clutch – Psychic Warfare LP (Weathermaker)
Recently released on CD and limited white vinyl, Psychic Warfare is now available on standard black vinyl. Clutch frontman Neil Fallon told the Metal Hammer Magazine Show that album title “Psychic Warfare is a lyric from the first track, ‘X-Ray Visions’. It’s about a guy holed up in a motel for unexplained reasons, and he’s under great duress, being attacked by psychically-empowered agents of unknown origin. At least, that’s the back story I have in my head.” According to Fallon, the “X-Ray Visions” lyrical concept was influenced by Philip K. Dick, the science fiction author whose 1968 novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? (which was the basis for Blade Runner). Neil said: “[Dick’s] general philosophy and questions have always crept into my lyrics, because I share an interest in it. On Earth Rocker, ‘Crucial Velocity’ was definitely a Philip K. Dick song for me. On this record, ‘X-Ray Visions’ certainly is.”
Conflict – There Must Be Another Way: The Singles 2xLP (Jungle)
UK anarcho-punk band who were banned from playing the UK because of riots at their gigs. First nurtured by Crass, they preached direct action against the authorities. This double-LP compiles all their 7” singles.
Mike Cooper – Light On A Wall LP (Backwards)
“Spirit songs”—vocal works constructed by chopping up (à la Burroughs, Gysin, Phillips) Pynchon’s novels V and Gravity’s Rainbow recorded live on Radio Lebanon in Beirut—accompanied by electric Vietnamese lap steel (heavily processed through a vintage Kaoss pad and Zoom SampleTrack looper). Chords, melodies and harmonic patterns are unplanned improvisations unique to each performance. The final track is a thundering cover of “Masters At War.”
Courage My Love – Becoming LP (InVogue)
Released last March on CD – now available on vinyl. Courage My love consists of twin sisters Mercedes Arn-Horn (vocals, guitar) and Phoenix Arn-Horn (drums, vocals) with their friend Brandon Lockwood (bass). Their blend pop/punk, alternative metal received a Juno Award nomination for ‘Breakthrough Group Of The Year.’
The Cure – Pornography [Reissue/1982] 2xLP (Vinyl Lovers)
The Cure’s fourth album, often cited as their darkest work, Pornography is also widely accepted as one of the greatest goth records of all time. This double gatefold edition includes the original 1982 classic LP as well as demos and live material including a song called “Temptaion Two” later to be known as “Let’s Go To Bed” plus the Airlock soundtrack, their 1982 tour film. On HQ-180gm vinyl with poly-lined inner sleeves.
Drug Church – Hit Your Head LP (No Sleep)
Recently released on CD – now available on clear with orange and white splatter colored vinyl. “Albany, New York punk outfit Drug Church has been known to operate at extreme levels, in both a technical and personal sense. Fronted by Self Defense Family’s Patrick Kindlon, the band has carried the hardcore torch passed down through the likes of Fugazi and Black Flag, their 2012 self-titled debut EP earning them a reputation for self-loathing songs riddled with bombastic guitar licks and deafening drums. This sound showed up in full force on their first full-length album, 2013’s well-received Paul Walker. Now, Drug Church is ready for round two with their sophomore LP, Hit Your Head.” – Consequence Of Sound
Jad Fair & Jason Willett – The Greatest Power LP (Dymaxion Groove)
Newest collaborative album from Half Japanese frontman Jad Fair and bassist Jason Willett. HQ-180gm yellow/pink split color vinyl.
Famous Last Words – Council Of The Dead [2014] LP (InVogue)
Released last year on CD – now available on vinyl. Famous Last Words is a post-hardcore band from Petoskey, MI.
Eric Feremans – The Antwerp Killer [OST/Reissue/1983] LP (Finder’s Keepers)
One of the rarest vinyl horror soundtracks of all time, 1983’s The Antwerp Killer consists of remarkable homemade electronic experiments created by a wunderkind synth designer for a smart-talking teenage movie maverick. Combining self-propelled punk attitude and uninhibited confidence, the hyper-proactive work of these DIY prodigies pinpoints an important era when youthful ambition and creative technology met.
The Flaming Lips – Heady Nuggs: 20 Years After Clouds Taste Metallic 1994-1997 5xLP (Reprise)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Clouds Taste Metallic, the band’s seventh album, is considered one of The Lips’ best and earned them much critical fanfare. Released in 1995, Clouds Taste Metallic is also the last Lips album to feature guitarist Ronald Jones. Heady Nuggs: 20 Years After Clouds Taste Metallic 1994-1997 features the entirety of Clouds Taste Metallic plus the rarities The King Bug Laughs (Oddities And Rarities) (a collection of previously unreleased, promo-only, and compilation-only tracks gathered together and available for the first time ever in one place. Also includes a promo-only compilation entitled Due To High Expectations The Flaming Lips Are Providing Needles For Your Balloons, and then a previously unreleased live recording of the band’s club show at Moe’s captured in Seattle on May 10th, 1996.
The Frames – Longitude 2xLP+MP3 (ANTI-)
A compilation of songs chosen by the Irish band, including new recordings of favorites “Revelate” and “Fitzcaraldo” as well as a brand new composition recorded just for this set. The Frames are a Dublin based band led by Glen Hansard, the singer/songwriter whose musical journey has included an Academy Award win for the film Once, success with his band — The Swell Season, as well as his acclaimed solo works, including his latest release Didn’t He Ramble and his 2012 solo debut Rhythm And Repose.
Rinji Fukuoka/Michel Henritzi/Luca Massolin – Weather Report LP (Backwards)
An oneiric yet political sound piece in two long movements of cosmic improvisation that serves as the soundtrack of an ecological disaster, specifically the earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear plant destruction in Fukushima 2011. Ghostly shapes and tones haunt the first side, where Luca Massolin’s dreamy organ and heavenly electronics are blessed by Rinji Fukuoka’s elegiac violin lines, evolving into an improvised blues for flamenco-like guitar, percussion and abstract electronics, building up tension until Michel Henritzi’s lapsteel joins with waves of ectoplasmic electricity, and finally exploding into a blast of cathartic free noise.
Dave Gahan & Soulsavers – Angels & Ghosts LP (Columbia)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Listeners can expect to be led through an aural mix of dark, brooding sounds, elements inspired by gospel and blues, and the stark beauty that has become a signature of Dave & Soulsavers works. Dave Gahan’s emotionally powerful voice has never sounded better, and drives the album forward over a landscape of meticulously crafted instrumentation. A transatlantic collaboration, the writing process started with Dave Gahan and Soulsavers’ Rich Machin exchanging demos and ideas from their respective studios in lower Manhattan and rural England. They then recorded the album with additional musicians in studios around the world, including classic locations such as Sunset Sound in Los Angeles and Electric Lady in New York. The end result is a vibrant, live-sounding album, and proof of the “instant and obvious fit” Machin felt writing with Gahan.
The Garden – Haha LP+MP3 (Epitaph)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The Garden is a constantly evolving, conceptual punk band based in Orange County, CA. Established in in 2011 by twin brothers Wyatt and Fletcher Shears, The Garden consistently defies categorization and continues to break ground: auditory invaders of the new world, borderless, released from all constraint and old ideologies. The twins draw inspiration from a background in punk classicism but remain unfettered and unselfconscious enough to infuse elements of ‘90s hip-hop and big beat electronica. Their two-piece bass and drums essence is dirty, raw and very immediate, but equally nuanced with echoes of the hive mind, the ephemeral architecture that exists both inside and outside of the duo that the listener enters and never quite escapes. Together the twins are an acidic concoction; unstable, sexy and probably toxic.
Ellie Goulding – Delirium 2xLP (Interscope)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. “Ellie Goulding’s third full-length Delirium is what it is: another product of the capitalistic fame machine. Bow down for the catchiness. The journey begins with an intro piece named after the album. It is a mysterious, cinematic instrumental track which makes curious for the forthcoming material. And just when you reach this certain state of delirium it is supposed to turn you in to, the awakening hits you hard when ‘Aftertaste’ starts pumping through your brain. A folk-orientated up-tempo number, catchy hook from the first sec, overload of production. It is clear, guys: With this album, Goulding serves us a pop-masterpiece.” – Nothing But Hope And Passion
Horoscope – El Espejo el y Mar LP (Wharf Cat)
Horoscope is the multimedia project of Miami native and Brooklyn resident, Rene J. Nunez Cabrera. With numerous cassette releases on labels such as Ascetic house and Acid Casualty Productions and tours with a wide range of artists, Horoscope has been a fixture in contemporary noise circles. Compared to his often violent and confrontational live sets, Cabreraʼs debut vinyl release is a more meditative affair. Composed, arranged and recorded with only a QCS MS-20 synthesizer, Tascam four track and a Tarot deck, El Espejo el y Mar channels the more introspective aspects of Cabreraʼs live set, lulling listeners into a daze where they are invited to create a horoscope of their own.
The Hot Sardines – The Hot Sardines [2014] LP (Universal Music Classics)
Released last year on CD – now available on vinyl. The Hot Sardines have a distinctive recipe for making musical magic: take a blustery brass lineup, layer it over a rhythm section led by a stride-piano virtuoso in the Fats Waller vein, and tie it all together with a one-of-the-boys front-woman who sings in both English and French with a voice from another era. The brainchild of Bibs and Miz Elizabeth, the Sardine sound fuses musical influences from New York, Paris, and New Orleans that were nurtured from the Prohibition era through the Great Depression, WWII and beyond.
Ilaiyaraaja – Solla Solla: Maestro Ilaiyaraaja and the Electronic Pop Sound of Kollywood 1977-1983 [Reissue/2011] LP (Finders Keepers)
The undeniable prince of Kollywood cinema, India’s second-largest film industry, Ilaiyaraaja is more than equal to his forward-thinking contemporaries in Bollywood and Lollywood in both productivity and experimentation. However, once you have exhausted all possible leads using his various names (and the numerous misspellings) you’re faced with the unenviable task of sifting through a 34-year career spanning more than 900 film scores in Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada in order to unearth some the heaviest dancefloor-friendly electronic pop to ever emerge from Southern India. This not-so-modest collection of lesser-spotted electronic Tamil pop features many tracks previously unavailable away from their original rare-as-hen’s-teeth vinyl pressings.
Imagine Dragons – Smoke + Mirrors 2xLP (Interscope)
Deluxe vinyl pressing. On Smoke + Mirrors, Imagine Dragons use the frenetic energy of life on the road to infuse their music with both raw tension and intense vulnerability. As on their full-length debut Night Visions, the band works with sharply crafted beats and grooves to dream up rhythm-driven rock music that’s artful yet visceral.
Jay Vons – It Was Wrong To Love You 7” (La Castanya)
A vinyl-only release from members of Reigning Sound, this Brooklyn rock ‘n’ soul combo, recorded at The Daptone House Of Soul.
Jimmy Eat World – Static Prevails [Reissue/1996] 2xLP (Interscope)
Jimmy Eat World – Bleed American [Reissue/2001] LP (Interscope)
Jimmy Eat World – Futures [Reissue/2004] 2xLP (Interscope)
Jimmy Eat World – Stay By My Side Tonight [Reissue/2005] LP (Interscope)
Limited vinyl reissues of a handful of the Arizona emo-rock band’s albums, as well as their 2005 EP Stay By My Side Tonight.
Julia Kent – Asperities LP (Leaf)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Vancouver-born and New York-based, acclaimed cellist Julia Kent rose to prominence with Rasputina and Antony & The Johnsons. Her extensive résumé includes recent work with Swans, Aidan Baker, Rachel Grimes, Rutger Zuydervelt, Barbara Morgenstern, Library Tapes and Khan of Finland. Asperities is the artist’s fourth solo album. As the title suggests, this is a record born of conflict: internal, personal and global. Universal themes. The build of pressure and the threat of violent release. Modern guilt. Modern fears. Looped cello, electronics and found sounds create a world where the technological and the organic merge in perfect symbiosis, the layers of sound peeling back to reveal a beating, bloody human heart at its center.
Ben Lee – Awake Is The New Sleep [2005] 2xLP (New West)
HQ-180gm double vinyl LP pressing housed in a double embossed jacket, includes digital download. Features six unreleased tracks on vinyl and two additional bonus cuts on the download. Ben Lee’s landmark pop masterpiece, available for the first time ever on vinyl. Includes the beloved songs “Catch My Disease,” “Gamble Everything For Love” and “We’re All In This Together.” Guest appearances by Har Mar Superstar, Jason Schwartzman and Jenny Lewis. Features brand new liner notes from Ben and additional photos.
The Max Levine Ensemble – Backlash, Baby LP (Lame-O)
Sometime around the turn of the century a small gang of boys grouped together in the noble pursuit of transcending suburban boredom through the traditional performance of punk rock songs. Three of these young products of white America never moved on from this adolescent rebellion phase, and some 15 years later The Max Levine Ensemble continue to rock basements, bombed out buildings and other holes in the fabric of the status quo, with lofty aspirations of creating moments of pop catharsis for angsty teenagers and maybe shaking punk rock from the mediocrity of its ritualistic lulls. CD version due January 1.
Life Stinks – You’ll Never Make It LP (S-S)
Feelings of anger, self-doubt and vindictiveness weave though a sonic template that shifts from a Flipper/Fang arms-a-swingin’ groove (as on the title track) to standout Velvet poppers (“Anchor”), Stooge-oid stomping (“Sliding Down a Wire”), and outright demented thuds (“I’m a Weed”). And then just when you are ready to take out a few windows, Life Stinks slyly slides in a gentle number which reminds you that the band paints from a complete emotional palette.
Like Moths To Flames – The Dying Things We Live For LP+CD (Rise)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Like Moths To Flames have been spending the past 5 years building a name for themselves in the metal-core community. The Dying Things We Live For is their third album.
Manic Street Preachers – The Holy Bible [Reissue/1994] LP (Sony Legacy)
Limited heavyweight HQ-180gm vinyl LP pressing. The Holy Bible is the third studio album by Welsh alt-rock band Manic Street Preachers. At the time the album was written and recorded, lyricist and rhythm guitarist Richey Edwards was struggling with severe depression, alcohol abuse, self-harm and anorexia nervosa, and its contents are considered by many sources to reflect his mental state. The songs focus on themes relating to politics and human suffering. It was the band’s last album released before Edwards’ disappearance on February 1, 1995.
Tim McGraw – Sundown Heaven Town LP (Big Machine Records)
Released last year on CD – now available on vinyl. New album from the country superstar.
Meg Meyers – Sorry LP (Atlantic)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Meg Myers has been bubbling on the underground alternative scene since 2011 with her song “Monster.” As time went on, the Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter’s promising career reached another milestone when she signed to Atlantic Records in 2013. The bigger platform brought more success after her two EPs—Daughter In The Choir and Make A Shadow—garnered positive responses from music critics for her emotionally-charged songs like “Desire.”
Shawn Mendes – Handwritten LP (Island)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The pop vocalist’s debut album features hit singles “Life Of The Party” and “Something Big,” in addition to new songs crafted by Mendes in writing sessions on his tour bus over the course of the past year, including production by Martin Terefe (Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours” and Train’s ‘Hey Soul Sister”), as well as songs with Life Of The Party co-writers Ido Zmishlany & Scott Harris.
Milk Lines – Ceramic LP (In The Red)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The husband-and-wife songwriting talents of Jeffrey Clarke (Demon’s Claws, Hellshovel) and Emily Frances give one the feeling that Milk Lines has been commissioned by time itself to build a dream-like bridge, so that reality might have the chance at a glimpse… Their wide range of influences and unique brand of music are organic, primitive yet thoughtful. The lo-fi, trippy and sometimes country-laced tunes display a fresh and original sound.
Modern Baseball – MoBo Presents: The Perfect Cast EP featuring Modern Baseball 12” (Lame-O)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New six-song EP released in advance of Modern Baseball’s forthcoming album Holy Ghost (release date TBA). “Co-frontman Brendan Lukens opened up to Spin about his battle with depression and anxiety, which he writes about in his new songs. ‘The Waterboy Returns’ is one of their most melodically upbeat songs, yet features dark lyrics such as ‘Hey you, that’s no way out / You can’t find help in a bottle or a cut,’ which reflect Luken’s personal struggles. ‘The Thrash Particle’ is a slower track where Brendan opens up about heartbreak and reflects on expressing his feelings through songwriting within the actual lyrics. ‘You suggested I write a song about the first time we met / Well I don’t wanna remember there or then.’” – Brooklyn Vegan
Justin Moore – Off The Beaten Path [2013] LP (Valory)
The third album from country star Justin Moore.
My Cat Is An Alien – The Dance Of Oneirism 2xLP (Backwards)
From the liner notes: “Self-made double-bodied string instrument, handmade pocket harp, pedal effects, wordless vocalizations, modified analog drum machine, mini-keyboard, alientronics…. [N]othing is straightforward; everything is invented, shrunken, self-built, inchoate: alien-ated. The session was recorded—instantly composed—in MCIAA’s ‘Alien Zone’ situated in the Western Alps, and it sounds it…. The rhythms have a contrary cold, organic quality to them, the feel of the pulse as the breath is held…. The transmissions are fuzzy … and at points it makes for a music of almost terrifying quiet.”
Phish – The Siket Disc [1999] LP+MP3 (Atlantic)
Originally self-released in June 1999, The Siket Disc contains 35 minutes of almost entirely instrumental, live-in-the-studio improvisation recorded by it’s namesake, engineer John Siket. The music was culled by Phish keyboardist Page McConnell from The Story Of The Ghost sessions that took place in 1997 at Bearsville Studios in Woodstock, New York.
Placebo – MTV Unplugged 2xLP (UMe)
Recently released on CD – now available on double picture disc vinyl. On the 19th of August, Placebo performed a one-off show for MTV Unplugged at the London Studios in the UK. (DVD and Blu-ray editions of the show have also been released this week.)
Pretty Boy Thorson & Lil’ Happiness – I Ain’t Your Man b/w You’re Just A Fool 7”+MP3 (Rad Girlfriend)
This super group from Minneapolis plays country stocked rock & roll jams with a gritty punk rock underbelly. Frontman Jesse Thorson’s gravely croon stands in stark contrast with Annie Sparrows (Soviettes) more sweet and melodic voice. Twangy guitars, bouncing drums, organ and bass playing from Paddy Costello (Dillinger Four) set these songs apart from the standard formulaic punk band.
Pretty Pretty – Talkin’ To The Walls 7”+MP3 (Rad Girlfriend)
Featuring members of Vacation, Tight Bros, and including a cover of Dead Moon’s “Love Comes Once”, Pretty Pretty make the melodies haunting, dual male and female vocals all sorts of fuzzed out, and the riffs a complete buzzsaw of annihilation.
Raging Nathans – Losing It LP+MP3 (Rad Girlfriend)
Dayton, OH’s own Raging Nathans play hyped-up, melodic punk rock bursting with sick pop-punk flavor at it’s very core. Featuring members of The Queers, Iron Chic, The Dopamines and The Slow Death.
Linda Ronstadt – Just One Look: Classic Linda Ronstadt 3xLP (Rhino)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. This chronological collection begins with Michael Nesmith’s timeless “Different Drum” as performed by The Stone Poneys featuring Linda, then jumps forward to the 1973 solo album Don’t Cry Now. From that point on, Just One Look touches on all of Ronstadt’s LPs through 1982’s Get Close. The collection then picks up with 1989’s smash Aaron Neville pairing Cry Like A Rainstorm, Howl Like The Wind and concludes with tracks from 1993’s Winter Light.
Run The Jewels – Meow The Jewels 2xLP (Mass Appeal)
Limited double tawny brown-colored vinyl LP pressing. Includes poster and sticker sheet. Originally posted as a pre-order offering for their sophomore album Run The Jewels 2, the group jokingly promised to remix the album using only cat sounds in exchange for $40,000. An enterprising fan called their bluff via a highly publicized and successful Kickstarter campaign which exceeded its goal. Instead of backing down from the absurd premise, El-P and Killer Mike rose to the occasion, assembling a stable of producers (including El-P, Just Blaze, Prince Paul, Geoff Barrow of Portishead, Massive Attack, The Alchemist, Zola Jesus, Nick Hook, BOOTS, Dan The Automator, and more) to help deliver the goods.
Saintseneca – Such Things LP+MP3 (ANTI-)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. “The Ohio band Saintseneca made a national name for itself with its moodily stellar 2014 album Dark Arc, on which it showcases an arsenal of unlikely instruments, from the bulbul to the bouzouki to the bowed banjo. Throughout Dark Arc, all those worldly (and alliterative!) sounds got channeled into rich, dark, lustrous songs — hooky, accessible things that felt exotic and familiar, diverse and consistent. The new Such Things follows suit, but with even brighter and more intoxicating results. Take the glorious single ‘Sleeper Hold,’ in which a deep rumble gives way to a sunnily sung verse by Maryn Jones, followed by a stadium-sized chorus in which everyone in the band seems hell-bent on unleashing as much sound as possible. Jones and singer Zac Little swap the spotlight throughout the song, but the whole thing is a tidy three-minute tour de force for all involved. Little himself describes ‘Sleeper Hold’ as ‘a pop song about the physics of consciousness,’ and damned if Saintseneca doesn’t spend Such Things shoehorning deep, dark ideas into pocket-sized pop-rock anthems.” – NPR
Boz Scaggs – But Beautiful [2003] LP (Grey Cat)
On his 2003 album, But Beautiful, Scaggs performs standards such as “Sophisticated Lady,” and “Bewitched, Bothered And Bewildered” with the classic jazz quartet that includes pianist and arranger Paul Nagel and bright new star from the San Francisco jazz scene, saxophonist Eric Crystal.
Severed Heads – Please Clifford, Don’t Live In The Past [Reissue/1985] 2xLP (Dark Entries)
Severed Heads are one of the longest surviving bands to emerge from the Australian post-punk independent music scene. They began in Sydney in 1979, incorporating elements of ‘industrial’ noise-generation, tape cutting and looping and electronic sound synthesis. As the project developed song-structures and vocals were employed in a more-or-less recognizable mutant electro pop style.
Sheer Agony – Masterpiece LP+MP3 (Couple Skate)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Montreal’s Sheer Agony started in late 2010, when Christian Simmons and Jackson Macintosh started amassing tape-based studio equipment in their apartment. Initially looking to fuse Sell Out-era Who with The Homosexuals and The Soft Boys, the two found compatriots in Markus Lake and Greg Napier and put their vision to tape, resulting in a few songs on Bandcamp that lead immediately to a now very much out-of-print 7″ with the great Canadian label Fixture. Several North American tours later, Sheer Agony have emerged with Masterpiece, their debut long player for Couple Skate. Heavy players in the sprawling, potent DIY scene of Montreal and Drones Club, which has produced too many great bands and labels to list, Sheer Agony perfectly channel the weird energy of their scene and aforementioned influences into a potent blend of neo-psych swirl and proto-punk succinctness.
A Skylit Drive – Wires And The Concept Of Breathing [Reissue/2009] LP (Tragic Hero)
The post-hardcore band’s debut album is back in print on vinyl.
Slick! – Slick! LP (King Rocker)
Slick! is a three-piece rock & roll band out of Oakland California, blending classic punk and glam reminiscent of the Stooges, Dictators and Cheap Trick with historic rock & roll staples as Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers and The Beach Boys. Maintaining an eclectic variety between songs while adhering to a consistent sound.
Sam Smith – Writing’s On The Wall 7” (Capitol)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Vinyl single of the theme song to Spectre, the 24th James Bond adventure, backed with an instrumental version on the B-side.
Son Little – Son Little LP+MP3 (ANTI-)
Blending elements of acoustic blues, vintage soul, and conscious hip-hop into a mixture that’s expressive yet deeply personal, Son Little is the alias of Aaron Livingston, a singer, instrumentalist, and songwriter who divides his time between his own music and collaborating with others. “The Philadelphia soul artist has already logged collaborations with The Roots and RJD2, but the vocalist-guitarist can by all means stand on his own merits, and with the politically-minded new single ‘O Mother’ he doesn’t just stand tall, but marches against injustice. In step with Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On,’ ‘O Mother’ blends a sunlit, upbeat soul sound with lyrics that beckon at the very core of injustices. Little’s pleas ‘Why do they treat me like I’m not a man? I wonder does anybody know just who I am?’ may read as just another turn on self-centered angst, but given the timing of the track’s release, just days after a damning report on racist policing in America, the scope of Little’s lines grow massive. Soul music has always held hands tightly with the push for Civil Rights in America, and at the heart of any Civil Rights movement is the simple dream of fair human treatment and dignity” – Okay Player.
Teeth Of The Sea – Highly Deadly Black Tarantula LP (Rocket Recordings)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Machine-driven yet melodically abundant, the widescreen industrial expanses of Teeth Of The Sea’s fourth album combine the influence of long-time band favorites like Aphex Twin, Angelo Badalamenti, and Throbbing Gristle with new inspiration that spans from Chicago footwork to black metal.
Rob Thomas – The Great Unknown LP (Atlantic)
Released last August on CD – now available on vinyl. New album from the Matchbox Twenty frontman.
Bryson Tiller – Trapsoul LP (RCA)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Louisville, Kentucky’s Bryson Tiller refers to his unique way of seamlessly moving between rap and breezy R&B crooning as “trap soul”—which is also the title of his new major label album.
Toe – Hear You LP (Top Shelf)
Released last August on CD – now available on vinyl. New album from the Japanese math rock outfit.
Twiztid – The Darkness LP (Majik Ninja)
Released last January on CD – now available on vinyl. New release from the Detroit hip-hop duo. During the recording sessions Twiztid would keep the studio pitch black except for six lit candles scattered around the studio floor. They recorded until the early morning for weeks on end. Madrox and Monoxide took it back to their roots, they had the mindset of their first studio album Mostasteless and reinvented the creepy story telling music of their past.
Nick van Woert – Waco LP (Wharf Cat)
In 1993 the FBI inadvertently created an evacuation soundtrack during the 51-day standoff in Waco, Texas with David Koresh and The Branch Dividians. The FBI blasted these songs and noises in an attempt to torture and evacuate the inhabitants of the compound. This LP is a selection of these songs, curated by Nick van Woert and recreated by himself, Spencer Murphy, Ben Greenberg (The Men), ZZ Ramierez (Ukiah Drag), Jeff Zagers, Langdon Graves, Isaiah Barr, Jack Gulielmetti, Brian McPeck, Emilliano Ortiz, Logan Takahashi, Elias Ronnenfelt (Iceage), Sandy Parker and more, for instance, covering “Achey-Breaky Heart” Suicide-style.
Various Artists – Best From The West: Modern Sounds From California, Volume 2 [Reissue/1955] 10” (Blue Note)
Limited 10″ vinyl repressing of this classic Blue Note release. This album is the second volume of a Musical Blindfold test conducted by Leonard Feather. In Volumes 1 and 2, a band made up completely of west-coast-based musicians recorded six songs per record. The names of the artists were withheld in Volume 1 and the fans were encouraged to mail in their guesses to the Blue Note offices in New York. On the packaging of Volume 2, the names of all the performers on both volumes were revealed.
Various Artists – Groovy Sounds Of 1970s Lebanon LP (Cedarphon)
Beirut, Lebanon’s beautiful capital city on the Eastern Mediterranean waterfront, was once hailed as “the Paris of the Middle East,” until a brutal civil war began in 1975; the country was all but destroyed by the time the violence ended many years later. During the early 1970s, the center of the Middle East’s music industry was located in Beirut. Many great artists flourished in its nightclubs and recording studios as the city became the entertainment playground for the entire Arab world. Some of the greatest Arabic musicians and performers of the 20th century were either living there or frequently passing through — legends like Fairuz, Sabah, Farid El Atrache, Omar Khorshid, Taroub, the Rahbani Brothers, and many others. This album, which features some of these legends along with others who are less well known, showcases the breadth of musical styles flourishing in Beirut. Arabic pop yeh yeh, Latin jazz, orchestral groove, folk rock melancholia, surf guitar, and a host of beguiling approximations on every genre of the time, yet all singular in their Arabic, cosmopolitan flair.
Various Artist – Jungle Exotica Volume 2 [Reissue/1997] LP (Crypt)
Remastered vinyl reissue packaged in a deluxe gatefold sleeve. Features cuts from Chaos Inc., The Nite Cats, The Tides, The Puddle Jumpers, Pasquale & His Lunar-Tiks, Saxie Russell, Omar Kay, The Whips, The Sheiks, The Scouts, The El-Capris and more.
Various Artists – Kitsuné Maison Compilation 17: World Wild Issue LP (Kitsuné)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The 17th issue of the long running compilation is filled with the quirkiest pop you’ll find this side of good taste. 17 tracks courtesy of an exciting selection of gifted agitators combining immaculate choruses to a certain attitude: youthful, finger on the pulse and oftentimes edgy. Featuring tracks by: Danglo, Cesare, Grace Lightman and more.
Various Artists – Las Vegas Grind Volume 1 [Reissue/1987] LP (Crypt)
Various Artists – Las Vegas Grind Volume 5 [Reissue/1995] LP (Crypt)
Various Artists – Las Vegas Grind Volume 6 [Reissue/2000] LP (Crypt)
Remastered vinyl reissues packaged in deluxe gatefold sleeves. Volume 1 of the retro-burlesque compilation series features cuts from James “Red” Holloway, The Jesters, Bob Taylor, Buddy Miller, Joe Dodo & The Groovers, The Dyna-Sores, The Crescendos, Noble Watts, Tic & Toc, The Genteels, and more. Volume 5 collects cuts from The Four Instants, Luchi, The Rhythm Kings, One Plus One, Willie Wright & The Sparklers, Big Bob Dougherty, The Playboys, Richie & The Squires, and others. Volume 6 features cuts from Jay Gee & His Orchestra, Bowlegs, The Poor Boys, Dominic & The Dominos, The Jaguars, Lord Sundance, Big Bo Thomas & The Arrows, Chaz & 2, The Ramrocks, etc.
Leslie West – Soundcheck LP+MP3 (Provogue)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New solo album from the Mountain co-founder with guest appearances by British guitarist Peter Frampton and Brian may, ex-Jeff Beck keyboard virtuoso Max Middleton, vocalist extraordinaire Bonnie Bramlett and the late great Cream bassist and longtime friend of Leslie’s, Jack Bruce.
Yoko And The Oh No’s – Yoko And The Oh No’s LP+MP3 (Autumn Tone)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Yoko & The Oh No’s are three kids from Chicago – Max Goldstein on vocals, Max Loebman on guitar, and Stef Roti on drums – a raging trio fueled by Taco Bell, rock & roll myths, and pilfered booze. It doesn’t quite add up how kids this young (Max L. just graduated high school) managed to tap into a vibe this classic. The band’s self-titled full-length debut is crammed with classic rock riffs, swinging beats, and up front, the sassy, done-up style of Max G. emoting loosely and wildly like a young David Johansen fronting the New York Dolls, possessing a crooner’s voice and a taste for style. The prevailing mood in modern indie garage rock is one of stylistic indifference, but that’s not how Yoko & The Oh No’s come across; these kiddos don’t just care, they care a lot.
Zipper – Zipper [Reissue/1975] LP (Permanent)
Equal parts acid fried psych, raw blistering guitar fireworks, proto-punk pummel and bone crunchin’ heavy rock machismo from Fred Cole’s (Dead Moon/Pierced Arrows/The Rats) Zipper.
Cassettes:
Richard Francis – Combinations #1 (Entr’acte)
Patterns, rhythms and structures, like memories from Richard Francis’ surroundings. Recorded 2013–14 at the Künstlerhäuser in Worpswede, at Worm in Rotterdam, and at home in Auckland.
Dan Melchior – Black Night/New Morning (Spam)
Dan Melchior – Human Of Stow (Tutore Burlato)
Black Night/New Morning is a nocturnal and noisy collage fueled with wee-hours caffeine. Includes Biro Crimes, a sixteen-page riso-printed zine of Dan Melchior’s drawings done in the waiting rooms of the Duke Cancer Clinic. Human Of Stow is an oddly satisfying instrumental-and-sound collection, layered without listening to what was already recorded.
Skeppet – Skeppet Deluxe (Not Not Fun)
Multi-instrumentalists Andreas Malm and Henrik Wallin have been triangulating a particular schematic of minimalist mantric-psychedelic instrumental music since the mid-2000s, emphasizing texture, time, and trance states. But with the exception of 2014’s Phase 3 LP, most of the group’s recordings were released as limited cassettes or vinyl in Sweden, long out of print. Skeppet Deluxe collects an assortment of these formative tracks into an hour-long mystic suite of primitivist circular sprawl. Shaping guitar, synthesizer, and percussion into fractals of FX, the ethos of Doing Less, Longer leads across varied terrain: motorik vignette, sunbleached organ vamp, drum rumble, Sky Records cruise, wah dirge, dawnbringer pop, etc.
Ulaan Khol – Salt (Soft Abuse)
Seven years after the first Ulaan Khol release arrived, Steven R. Smith continues to utilize the platform to fuse the confluence of New Zealand free noise, Australian post-punk and art-rock, and Japanese underground psych (a la PSF Records) with his own palette. Smith presents his own personal strain of psychedelic guitar exploration, alternating between blistering, hypnotic and meditative, with his scorching guitar firmly at the center. Salt is the latest chapter. Features cover of Leon Russell’s “Delta Lady.”
Book:
Simon Joyner – Only Love Can Bring You Peace – Selected Lyrics (Magic Helicopter Press)
Only Love Can Bring You Peace is the first selection of Simon Joyner’s lyrics (assembled and edited by Simon and his wife Sara) to appear in book form, showcasing the images and characters of over 15 albums, EPs, and rare releases. It also features two interviews with Joyner (from Aquarium Drunkard [2015] and Circumstantial Evidence [1996]), rare liner notes, and illustrations from over a dozen guest starring friends.
Leave a Reply