CDs + Vinyl:
Abhorrent Decimation – The Pardoner CD (Prosthetic)
Abhorrent Decimation offer up their most inspired, charismatic and dominating material to date in the form of sophomore album The Pardoner. [Vinyl edition due August 25.]
Afterbirth – Time Traveler’s Dilemma CD/LP (Unique Leader)
New York-based death metal behemoths Afterbirth – featuring within its ranks members of Helmet, Artificial Brain, and Buckshot Facelift – release their brutalizing debut full-length.
Aminé – Good For You CD (Republic)
Debut album from the critically-acclaimed Portland, Oregon rapper.
Arthur Alexander – Arthur Alexander [Reissue/1972] CD (Omnivore)
When The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Humble Pie, Dusty Springfield, George Jones & Johnny Paycheck, Bob Dylan, the Bee Gees and countless others cover your songs, you must be on to something. Arthur Alexander was a songwriter and song stylist, whose career took off in the early 1960s—writing and recording hits like “Anna (Go To Him)” and “You Better Move On”—some of the earliest hits recorded at Rick Hall’s Fame Studios and featuring the famed Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. After a short break at the end of the decade, he released a self-titled ‘comeback’ album in 1972. This reissue of that album is expanded with six bonus tracks—two previously unissued. Arthur Alexander was produced by Muscle Shoals bassist Tommy Gogbill, and include a version of “Burning Love”—covered by Elvis Presley shortly after the album’s release. As Barry Hansen (better known to most as Dr. Demento) wrote in the original notes, “Arthur is especially proud of the variety and versatility of his work on this album. All of it is strong medicine, and should be a fine antidote for a lot of bad scenes.”
Herb Alpert – Music Volume 1 CD (Herb Alpert)
Joyful, romantic sounds that stir the soul: that’s the overarching theme of the trumpeter and composers’ new album, Music Volume 1. Alpert’s passion for timeless melodies takes the listener on a voyage that spans genres and generations with surprising twists and turns. Music Volume 1 arrives with a brand-new song written by Alpert, the infectiously funky “Sugarfoot.” The euphoric album unfurls with tasteful twists on iconic songs, such as turntable scratches and electronic flourishes on “Unforgettable” and “Cheek To Cheek.” The inclusion of both “Michelle” and “Imagine” point to the near-endless inspiration that Alpert draws from the music of John Lennon and The Beatles. In his hands, “Michelle” starts with lush strings and effortlessly shifts into a swinging, Parisian-inspired jazz motif. Alpert’s lifelong love of Django Reinhardt led him to the classic “C’est Si Bon” and further takes the listener on a trip straight to France, the smell of tulips in the air, lovers walking hand in hand. Herb also puts a fresh, breezy spin on “Flamingo,” a song he first recorded for 1966’s chart-topper S.R.O.
Aphex Twin – Selected Ambient Works Volume II [Reissue/1994] 2xCD (Warp)
Aphex Twin – I Care Because You Do [Reissue/1995] CD/2xLP+MP3 (Warp)
Aphex Twin – Richard D. James Album [Reissue/1996] CD/LP+MP3 (Warp)
Aphex Twin – Come To Daddy [Reissue/1997] CDEP/12”+MP3 (Warp)
Aphex Twin – Windowlicker [Reissue/1999] CDEP/12”+MP3 (Warp)
Classic Aphex Twin back in print on CD and vinyl formats.
Arcade Fire – Everything Now CD/LP/Cassette (Columbia)
“Filing a review of Arcade Fire’s new album, one that will be aggregated with myriad others, is really antithetical to the whole point of it, i.e. that we’re so overwhelmed with thoughts, feelings, opinions – ‘content’ – in 2017, that the meaning of words is diminishing at a rate of terabytes-per-second. This palpable modern information overload has been niggling at the band for years, but Everything Now is their fullest expression of it yet. The torrent of content we absorb on a daily basis is a topic ripe for art that has been largely been under-explored in music thus far, but Arcade Fire don’t do it in somber and morbid fashion, Everything Now being their most upbeat, joyful album to date. It’s like they’ve chopped up a bunch of Abba tracks with this album, tenderized them, sprinkled them with glitter and reassembled them into something a little more subtle and insouciant. Arcade Fire’s fifth studio album doesn’t have the sprawling nature of The Suburbs or Reflektor nor the cacophonic intensity of Funeral, but the sequin-festooned, disco-ish Everything Now is every bit as good as these albums in its own right. Departures in sound are often unwelcome when we’re already so happy with where a beloved band are, but, in this case, their experiments are a complete success.” – The Independent. [Two covers are available: ‘Day Version’ and an exclusive indie-store-only ‘Night Version.’ Limited blue colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Bênní – I & II CD/LP (Goner)
Hailing from an H Class planet far across the cosmic highways, Bênní makes hi-NRG new age music.
Peter Bernstein – Signs Live CD (Smoke Session)
Jazz guitarist Peter Bernstein leads an all-star quartet featuring pianist Brad Mehldau, bassist Christian McBride, and drummer Gregory Hutchinson for a double set of music recorded live at Jazz at Lincoln Center in NYC.
Rex Brown – Smoke On This… CD/LP (Metal/E1)
Brown wields a six-string guitar as confidently as he wore the bass in Pantera and Down. His engaging voice crackles with easygoing spirit and truth-telling power. It’s a crunchy drawl that’s down-to-earth, grippingly relatable, charmingly welcoming, and gritty, somewhere between the achingly resonant spiritual shamanism of Tom Waits and the instantly recognizable everyman AM radio vibes of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.
Byzantine – The Cicada Tree CD/2xLP (Metal Blade)
Muscular yet lithe riffs and fluid leads play against gripping, dynamic and at times unpredictable rhythms, while rich melodies and lyrics that are both involved and intelligent wind their way through every track of The Cicada Tree. The groove metal unit has continued their steady evolution – the interplay between their members organic and natural, imbuing the record’s sixty-two-minute running time with a freshness and urgency.
Cage The Elephant – Unpeeled CD (RCA)
Cage The Elephant’s new live album, Unpeeled, was recorded over a series of intimate shows in cities including Los Angeles, Washington DC, Knoxville, and Nashville where the band performed in a stripped down arrangement with a string quartet and additional percussion. Unpeeled features 21-tracks: 18 curated songs from their past four albums plus three re-imagined versions of existing songs. Said frontman Matt Shultz about the inspiration behind the double live release: “Many times you’re adding sonic layers looking for something to hide behind, and what you don’t realize is that that vulnerability and that nakedness might be the most compelling and interesting thing about the song.” [Vinyl edition due August 25.]
Camo & Krooked – Mosiak CD/LP (RAM/The End)
“Camo & Krooked are best known for being influencers in the Drum & Bass scene; their selections are as eclectic as one would expect.” — Dancing Astronaut
“In the ever-evolving world of electronic music, each genre has a handful of centerfold acts that have pioneered the movement in such a way that many have brashly followed suit. By paving the creative way and decimating every glass ceiling in their path, these said artists continually construct a precedent that directly reflects the extreme hours and tireless passions spent culminating a production so pristine, yet only a few minutes long. Camo & Krooked for me and many others, embody everything I’ve described above and more.” — Your EDM
The Cars – Candy-O [Reissue/1979] CD/2xLP (Elektra)
The Cars – Panorama [Reissue/1980] CD/2xLP (Elektra)
Digitally remastered and expanded editions of two classic album from the new wave/rock quintet.
Tommy Collins – This Is Tommy Collins CD (Rural Routes)
Oklahoma-born, Bakersfield-based Tommy Collins was a brilliant composer who exerted a powerful influence on Merle Haggard and Buck Owens. These two classic Collins albums showcase the singer-songwriter freewheeling gift for wild, oft-lascivious novelties and the intensely focused, darkly romantic ballads that earned him a reputation as one of the best in the business. One of a kind.
Contaminated – Final Man CD/LP (Regain)
Debut album from Australia’s Contaminated, a sickening wasteland of authentically ’90s death metal sickness: gurgling and gangrenous, fetid and filthy, and just utterly pulverizing.
Contrarian – To Perceive Is To Suffer CD (Willowtip)
Rooted in early ‘90’s progressive death metal, but with an unrelenting forward-thinking approach, Contrarian return with their second full-length album.s
Alice Cooper – Paranormal 2xCD/2xLP (earMUSIC)
Alice Cooper’s new studio album, his first in 6 years, Paranormal was recorded in Nashville with long-time collaborator Bob Ezrin. The 10-track album also features a bonus CD mini-album consisting of two brand new songs written and recorded together with the original Alice Cooper band members Dennis Dunaway, drummer Neal Smith and guitarist Michael Bruce alongside carefully selected live recordings. Paranormal also features special guest appearances by U2’s Larry Mullen Jr., ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons and Deep Purple’s Roger Glover. [Limited edition red color vinyl pressing also available.]
Daphni – Fabriclive 93 CD (Fabric)
New album from the alter-ego of mainman Dan Snaith (aka Caribou). This is his first full body of work since 2012’s Jiaolong album, featuring 23 unreleased Daphni tracks and four new edits.
Scott Ellison – Good Morning Midnight CD (Red Parlor)
The work of veteran blues-guitarist Scott Ellison reflects influences from the British Blues Invasion, Motown, and Memphis rhythm and blues. On Good Morning Midnight, he continues his long-time collaboration with producer/writer/pianist Walt Richmond, who is known for his work with Eric Clapton, J.J. Cale and Bonnie Raitt.
Emerson, Lake & Palmer – Black Moon [Reissue/1992] 2xCD/LP (BMG Rights Management)
Emerson, Lake & Palmer – In The Hot Seat [Reissue/1994] 2xCD/LP (BMG Rights Management)
Latest in the ongoing reissue series of ELP’s back catalog. Emerson, Lake & Palmer were one of the most successful, innovative and ground breaking British groups of the golden age of progressive rock. The band is notable for their classical and jazz influenced compositions, virtuoso musicianship and over-the-top live performances.
Fairport Convention – Come All: The First Ten Years (1968-1978) 7xCD (A&M)
Formed in London in 1967, Fairport Convention are the hardy perennials of the British folk scene and are credited with inventing the genre known as folk rock. This seven-CD set contains 121 tracks, 55 of which are previously unreleased. Highlights include key tracks from all of their classic albums, single B-sides, BBC Radio Sessions and TV performances.
Jerry Garcia & Merl Saunders – GarciaLive Volume Nine: August 11th, 1974 Keystone Berkeley 2xCD (ATO)
GarciaLive Volume Nine presents Jerry Garcia & Merl Saunders’ adventurous rock-jazz-R&B fusion performance from August 11th, 1974 at Keystone in Berkeley, CA with John Kahn on bass, Martin Fierro on saxophone & flute and the Grateful Dead’s Bill Kreutzmann on drums. While the evening’s setlist focuses mainly on standards, the approach is anything but regular or straight. It showcases their ability to reimagine standards through inventive arrangements and fiery virtuosity permeated with soul.
The Isley Brothers/Santana – Power Of Peace CD/2xLP (Sony Legacy)
Led by the legendary Ronald Isley on lead vocals and the album’s main producer/arranger Carlos Santana on lead guitar, rhythm guitar, percussion and background vocals, Power Of Peace covers songs first made familiar by the Chambers Brothers, Swamp Dogg, Stevie Wonder, Billie Holiday, Eddie Kendricks, Curtis Mayfield, Muddy Waters/Willie Dixon, Dionne Warwick/Jackie DeShannon, Marvin Gaye, Leon Thomas and Sy Miller and Jill Jackson.
Wanda Jackson – Wonderful Wanda / Lovin’ Country Style [Reissue/1962] CD (Rural Routes)
Wanda Jackson, the growling Oklahoma Fireball who smashed late 1950s convention with her explosive rockabilly and at-the-time scandalous use of mixed race band, showcases her formidable straight-ahead country chops on these two classic albums. With Wonderful Wanda Jackson eases into a cool, countrypolitan sound that highlights both her artistic flexibility and natural gift as an expressive, one of a kind song stylist, while Lovin’ Country Style collects her earliest recordings for Decca at the time, Jackson was just a teenager, but you’d never know it from her evocative, powerful vocals.
Jackyl – 25 CD (Mighty Loud)
Jackyl celebrates 25 years of rock ‘n’ roll swagger with this 18 song career-spanning retrospective.
Jillette Johnson – All I Ever See In You Is Me CD/LP (Rounder)
Jillette Johnson is the rare artist who needs little sonic accompaniment to make an indelible impact. Produced by Dave Cobb (the Grammy Award-winner known for his work with Jason Isbell and Sturgill Simpson), Johnson’s sophomore album All I Ever See in You Is Me offers up sparsely orchestrated songs centering on her spirited piano work and ever-changing vocal texture, an instrument that’s irresistibly powerful whether she’s belting out a refrain or whispering a hushed melody. Like only the most timeless songwriters, Johnson finds infinite depth within that simplicity. Recorded at RCA Studio A – the historic Nashville space where Dolly Parton laid down “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” in the same three-hour span – All I Ever See in You Is Me bears an unhurried pace and warm intimacy that echoes the purposeful looseness of its production. Drifting between hazy romanticism and resolute self-awareness, Johnson examines heartbreak and resilience with a willful and magnetic vulnerability.
Tom Jones – Live On Soundstage CD+DVD (BMG Recorded Music)
Tom Jones and Alison Krauss bring their electric chemistry to the intimate live setting of the WTTW Grainger Studios in Chicago for the taping of PBS’s Live On Soundstage. This performance showcases Tom Jones’ greatest hits including “Delilah,” “It’s Not Unusual,” “Green Green Grass Of Home” and many more, including three duets with Krauss. Stand-alone Blu-ray edition also available.
Joywave – Content CD (Hollywood)
“Content is a world of shifting dynamics. Daniel Armbruster’s (Joywave’s lead singer and lyricist) fragile words give way to howling, bewildering blasts of rock and electronic programming. Powerful, immersive, lush, emotionally distant. The production by Armbruster, bassist Sean Donnelly and Rich Costey, who has worked with layered, dense-sounding bands such as Arctic Monkeys and Muse, is careful to keep the vocals out front. Other sonic details are a treat, but hardly cute: There are what critics call ‘Beatlesque’ moments. The dreamlike segue of applause folding into a murky machine rhythm of ‘Thanks, Thanks For Coming.’ Armbruster tipping toward Paul McCartney-like Tin-Pan Alley vocals. The final track, ‘Let’s Talk About Feelings,’ is the most subversively daring of all 11 songs. ‘I am drowning in love with you,’ Armbruster sings over Bailey’s lounge piano, the shimmer of Brenner’s cymbals and cocktail-crowd chatter. Armbruster dares to carry the song like a cracked Perry Como. It’s a theatrical, murky sadness.” – Democrat & Chronical [Vinyl edition due September 15.]
Juiceboxxx – Freaked Out American Loser CD/LP/Cassette (Dangerbird)
Freaked Out American Loser is the latest album from Juiceboxxx, the Milwaukee-bred punk rap artist who is quite simply the first and last of his kind all at once. Juiceboxxx grew up in the 2000s within the noise, punk rock, and underground rap communities of Wisconsin, and while those banners still fly high independently today, there are very few other artists who not only understand that Venn diagram but who are also actively attempting to merge those sounds cohesively. Juiceboxxx might be out of his mind, but in all the best ways– he owns it and commits to this unstoppable onslaught of creative ideas and outbursts. Freaked Out American Loser is a punk rap blast that captures the anarchic, aggressive spirit of Juiceboxxx’s live show while also adding a new level of polish, focus, and dare we say, professionalism.
Ben E. King – The Rise Of Ben E. King: 1959-1963 CD (Contrast)
R&B icon Ben E. Kings masterly vocals created some of the most memorable hits of the 20th Century (“Stand By Me,” “Save The Last Dance For Me,” “Spanish Harlem”) and this collection highlights both his success with The Drifters and his superb early 1960s solo sides, a powerful testament to the soulful, charismatic King’s timeless appeal.
Lapalux – Ruinism CD/2xLP (Brainfeeder)
Throughout Ruinism the British producer takes this exploration further, journeying onward to the more ominous limbo space between life and death. In this liminal space where the finite and infinite intermingle, Lapalux sounds more at home than ever. Much of Ruinism’s inspiration was born out of a theatrical score Lapalux (aka Stuart Howard) wrote for the performance art piece Depart which was performed in an East London cemetery. The aptly named project served as genesis for a direction wrought with doom and melancholia. Ruinism is all sonic wreckage and rubble created using only hardware and real instruments. The sound simultaneously destroys and redeems itself across a tight and formidable 48-minutes. [Limited blue color vinyl pressing also available.]
Loviatar – Loviatar CD (Prosthetic)
Loviatar is a metal band from Canada whose sound borrows equally from the hazy gloom of My Bloody Valentine and the crushing riffs of Isis. Thunderous elements of doom and post-metal contrast with hypnotic moments of atmospheric introspection. [Vinyl edition due August 11.]
Madchild – The Darkest Hour CD/LP+MP3 (Battle Axe)
New album from the Canadian rapper best known for his work in Swollen Members. [Transparent green colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Make Them Suffer – Worlds Apart CD (Rise)
Ten brand new intense, guttural tracks from the deathcore band. [Vinyl edition due August 25.]
Manchester Orchestra – Black Mile To The Surface CD/2xLP+MP3 (Loma Vista)
Describing a rock record as “cinematic” usually implies a double-length, sprawling album with a full orchestra on every song; Manchester Orchestra’s A Black Mile To The Surface is cinematic in that it conjures worlds. There’s magical surrealism at work, with songs about a boy with no ears (“The Alien”) and the father/sleeping child callback of “The Sunshine.” There’s a story to parse here – three brothers, an abandoned wife and child, a mysterious journey through the depths of a miles-deep mine, a narrative of twists and turns, recurring characters, alternating timelines – but the songs and melodies stand on their own. [Deluxe color vinyl pressing with an etching on Side D also available.]
Mappe Of – A Northern Star, A Perfect Stone CD/LP (Paper Bag)
Debut album from the experimental Canadian artist. The album’s opening two tracks, the delicate, atmospheric “Cavern’s Dark” and the progressive oeuvre “Nimbin” offer a perfect glimpse into the scope of A Northern Star, A Perfect Stone, an other-worldly collection of 10 tracks that showcase Mappe Of’s ethereal avant-folk and sonic explorations. From classically-inspired, masterfully performed acoustic guitar arrangements to hauntingly beautiful melodies to lush epic soundscapes, this debut introduces the world to a new artist unafraid to annihilate any musical boundaries and chart his own course. [Limited color vinyl pressing also available.]
James Vincent McMorrow – True Care CD/2xLP+MP3 (James Mahogany Books)
The beloved Irish singer-songwriter is now four albums deep into his career, with We Move and True Care both arriving in the last year alone. His soulful voice stretches to breathtaking heights here as he man’s guitar, keyboards and more. He’s known for folk anthems, but his experiments with R&B are a testament to his ability and drive to evolve.
Vic Mensa – The Autobiography CD (Roc Nation)
“When history ranks 2017 among hip-hop’s wonder years — and from the sounds of the previous six months it certainly qualifies — Vic Mensa’s long-awaited full-length debut will be a big part of the reason why. The Chi-town native has created a work in The Autobiography that’s equal parts confessional and confrontational, gut-wrenching and uplifting. Steeped in a personal story arc that envelopes Mensa’s hometown, it echoes with the pain of a generation.” — NPR
Midnight Ghost Train – Cypress Ave. CD (Napalm)
Dark ‘n’ dirty southern rock with a hefty portion of sludge and funk.
Ikue Mori – Obelisk CD (Tzadik)
Universally acclaimed as a pioneer in live laptop electronics, Ikue’s signature style is still uniquely her own and has influenced two generations of laptop performers. Her new band project Obelisk is a super-band featuring three of the most acclaimed and original players in the Downtown scene—Okkyung Lee, Jim Black and Sylvie Courvoisier. Ikue’s startling compositions blend gorgeous melodies with hypnotic rhythms and evocative soundscapes. Strange and beautiful music from a legendary master of laptop improvisation.
Joe Nichols – Never Gets Old CD (Red Bow)
New album from one of country music’s most praised traditional country artists.
Oceans Ate Alaska – Hikari CD (Fearless)
New release from the British metalcore band. [Vinyl edition due August 11.]
Pet Shop Boys – Nightlife: Further Listening 1996-2000 2xCD/LP (Rhino)
Pet Shop Boys – Release: Further Listening 2001-2004 3xCD/LP (Rhino)
Pet Shop Boys – Fundamental: Further Listening 2005-2007 3xCD/LP (Rhino)
Digitally remastered and expanded editions. Single-disc 180gm vinyl also available.
John Pizzarelli featuring Daniel Jobim – Sinatra & Jobim @ 50 CD (Concord)
Two of John Pizzarelli’s greatest influences, Frank Sinatra and the bossa nova composer Antonio Carlos Jobim, joined forces in 1967 to present a softer, sultrier side of Sinatra. Half a century later, John Pizzarelli celebrates that unique gathering.
Elvis Presley – A Boy From Tupelo: The Complete 1953-1955 Recordings 3xCD (Sony Legacy)
Elvis Presley – A Boy From Tupelo: The Sun Masters LP (Sony Legacy)
The definitive collection of Elvis’ Sun-era recordings in one comprehensive package. A Boy From Tupelo contains every surviving Elvis Presley Sun master and outtake, plus two private records Elvis paid with his own money to record, as well as all known radio- and concert performances from the period. Many of these recordings are rare demos, session takes, and live performances including a newly discovered and previously unreleased recording of “I Forgot To Remember To Forget” from a 1955 Louisiana Hayride performance.
Prong – Zero Days CD/2xLP+CD (Steamhammer)
Another monster of an album from Prong. Musically, Zero Days hits home from the first bars of mighty opener “However It May End” to the last bars of closer “Wasting Of The Dawn.” Every cut is its own emotional roller-coaster ride, chock-full of massive riffage, ironclad grooves and topped off by Tommy Victor’s ever-improving vocal delivery. [Limited red colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Rings Of Saturn – Ultu Ulla CD/LP (Nuclear Blast)
New album from the Bay Area death metal/ “Aliencore” quartet. [Limited purple colored vinyl pressing also available.]
SahBabii – S.A.N.D.A.S. CD (WB)
“S.A.N.D.A.S. showcases SahBabii’s lyrical ability and a melodic flow that’s essentially taking over hip-hop right now. From cuts off the tape like “Chit Chat” and the title track, his sound is infectious.” — XXL
Shaman’s Harvest – Red Hands Black Deeds CD/LP+MP3 (Mascot)
“The very name of the latest album, Red Hands Black Deeds, from Shaman’s Harvest evokes a certain sort of imagery; One of dark southern roots, wicked ways, a soiled soul, and something mysteriously sexy in that Nick Cave ‘Red Right Hand’ sort of way. It also aligns perfectly with the band’s bluesy blend of southern inspired rock and roll, which oozes harmonious melodies and a gritty, raw sound that harkens back to the classic rock era of the ‘60s and ‘70s. In fact, while the band no doubt sounds fresh and current, there is something undeniably vintage about their sound, in a way that would have made them the perfect opening act for artists such as The Doors or Deep Purple back in the day. Fans of the band’s previous record, Smokin’ Hearts & Broken Guns, will undoubtedly be thrilled over this release, as it’s not only an extension of what the band has previously produced, but it’s more dynamic as well.
Sólstafir – Masterpiece Of Bitterness [Reissue/2005] CD (Spinefarm)
Reissue of the Icelandic metal band’s sophomore album. [Vinyl edition due August 25.]
Colin Steele Quartet – Diving For Pearls: Jazz Interpretations Of The Pearlfishers Songbook CD/LP (Marina)
One of Marina’s most beloved acts, gets the royal jazz treatment, with exciting new arrangements by the Colin Steele Quartet. Continuing a great jazz tradition — like Miles Davis with Porgy & Bess (1958) and Chet Baker with Plays The Best Of Lerner & Loewe (1959) — Diving For Pearls is dedicated to the work of one composer, David Scott of The Pearlfishers.
Juanita Stein – America CD (Nude/Hammerheart)
Debut solo album from the Howling Bells lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist. “This is a different, yet equally valid take on pure Americana, a pure Americana old Philco tube radio with Patsy Cline’s voice, like some sort of Bible miracle, singing from the speaker. This is dreamy, soulful, and lovely country.” – Soundlab [Vinyl edition due August 25.]
Sweet Apple – Sing The Night In Sorrow CD/LP (Tee Pee)
This all-star hard rock band includes David Sweetapple (Witch, Eerie), Jay Mascis (Dinosaur Jr., Heavy Blanket) and special guests Bob Pollard (GBV), Doug Gilliard (GBV, Nada Surf) and Mark Lanegan (Screaming Trees). “Caffeinated, power-pop-leaning rockers, some of which are imbued with Mascis’ transcendent guitar playing, and all of which espouse a fun, loose swagger that seems to reflect the members’ long-time friendships.” — Rolling Stone
Temple Of Void – Lords Of Death CD (Shadow Kingdom)
Detroit band Temple Of Void harkens back to the somber sound of early European doom, while channeling the energy and devastation of old-school American death metal.
Ernest Tubb – The Ernest Tubb Story [Reissue/1959] CD (Rural Routes)
This 1959 double album retrospective, showcasing stereo remakes of the Texas Troubadours two decades of classic material, combines an impeccable selection of honky tonk classics with some of the best singing Tubb ever committed to vinyl. By turns ebullient, tragic, romantic and desolate, Tubbs double-barreled, authoritative vocals, hard charging musical accompaniment and first-rate song selections makes this downright essential listening.
Valve Studio Orchestra – The DOTA 2 Official Soundtrack 2 CD/LP (Ipecac)
Valve Studio Orchestra has composed music for such games such as Half Life 2, Team Fortress 2, Left4Dead and Day Of Defeat. The official soundtrack to DOTA 2 from composer Jason Hayes (Warcraft III, World Of Warcraft, Hearthstone) and audio director Tim Larkin (Myst, Riven, Prince Of Persia) features conductor Timothy Williams leading the Northwest Sinfonia and Chorale.
Various Artists [BADBADNOTGOOD] – Late Night Tales CD/2xLP+MP3 (Late Night Tales)
For the 46th release in the Late Night Tales series, Canadian quartet BADBADNOTGOOD create the ultimate late night selection of tracks utilizing their record collections. (The CD edition is mixed, while the vinyl version is unmixed.)
Various Artists [Henry Saiz] – Balance Presents: Natura Sonoris 2xCD (Balance)
Spanish musical genius Henry Saiz provided one of Balance’s most memorable efforts on the 19th volume, utilizing vinyl, cassette, reel-to-reel tapes and over 100 field recordings to create an incredible patchwork of sounds that came together as a beautiful whole. Ever keen to provide something unique, he returns to the series for Balance presents Natura Sonoris: an expansive mix comprised completely of exclusives from his award-winning label.
Various Artists – Caribbean Audio Odyssey Volume One + Two CD (Stag-O-Lee)
Calypso in the Caribbean includes a range of genres, including: the benna genre of Antiguan and Barbudan music; mento, a style of Jamaican folk music that greatly influenced ska and reggae; ska, the precursor to rocksteady and reggae; spouge, a style of Barbadian popular music; cadence-lypso, which mixed calypso with the cadence rampa of Haiti and Dominican traditional music; and soca music, a style of kaiso/calypso, with influences from cadence-lypso, soul, funk, and Indian musical instruments. [Available as one CD or across two separate volumes on 10” vinyl.]
Various Artists – Curiosity Shop: A Collection Of Rare Aural Antiquities and Objets d’Art: Volume Six 1967-1971 CD (Particles)
A colorful collection of obscured and exuberant pop nuggets recorded in the British psychedelic period. Volume Six of Curiosity Shop provides an insight into the changing times with an illustrious soundtrack to furnish the senses.
Various Artists – Dustin E Presents… Cornflake Zoo: Episode Nine CD (Particles)
Episode Nine sails forth across exotic seas and returns triumphant with a prized selection of stereophonic hallucinations. 20 songs all recorded from 1966-1971. A captivating collection replete with archival imagery, a loving touch of restoration, and a simple (minded) narrative.
Various Artists – The Treasure Isle Story: The Soul Of Jamaica 4xCD (Sanctuary)
The first comprehensive anthology of one of Jamaica’s music’s greatest record labels, this four-CD set comprises 115 tracks, including numerous major ska, rock steady and reggae hits, as well as 29 tracks new to CD.
Venomous Maximus – No Warning CD (Shadow Kingdom)
Heaving heaviness, haunting melodicism, sweaty grit, red-blooded swagger, rock-god vocals. [Vinyl edition due August 25.]
The Wedding Present – Live 2007 CD+DVD (Scopitones)
In November 2007, The Wedding Present performed their classic debut album George Best live, in its entirety, in Dublin, Ireland. The concert, which took place in front of a thrilled crowd at the city’s Village venue to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the release of the LP, was recorded and filmed for posterity is now released for the first time here on DVD and CD.
Jackie Wilson – You Better Know It: The Soul Sides CD (Contrast)
‘50s-‘60s Detroit R&B idol Jackie Wilson’s progressive, supercharged brand of proto-soul pushed the music into a whole new creative dimension. This deep, joyous trove of Wilson’s classic hits re-establishes him as one of the most potent, influential voices in modern American music. Includes many of his grittier, more bluesy R&B and pop hits.
DVDs + Blu-ray:
Tom Jones – Live On Soundstage Blu-ray (BMG Recorded Music)
Tom Jones and Alison Krauss bring their electric chemistry to the intimate live setting of the WTTW Grainger Studios in Chicago for the taping of PBS’s Live On Soundstage. This performance showcases Tom Jones’ greatest hits including “Delilah,” “It’s Not Unusual,” “Green Green Grass Of Home” and many more, including three duets with Krauss.
This Week’s Vinyl Exclusives:
Dorothy Ashby – Hip Harp/On A Minor Grave 2xLP (Doxy)
A combined reissue of legendary jazz harpist and poly-instrumentalist Dorothy Ashby’s Hip Harp and In A Minor Groove, both released separately in 1958. Both albums feature Frank Wess. Dorothy Ashby had a unique soul jazz harp sound, and although the instrument she used is probably more thought of in terms of bedtime lullabies, she actually makes it swing nicely, and with a soulful sound that draws back to traditions of African stringed instruments.
Atheist – Piece Of Time [Reissue/1989] LP (Season Of Mist)
Atheist – Unquestionable Presence [Reissue/1991] LP (Season Of Mist)
Limited edition ultra-clear vinyl reissues of the technical metal band’s first two albums.
Gary Bartz NTU Group – Harlem Bush Music – Uruhu [Reissue/1971] LP (Milestone/Fantasy)
This righteously grooving mixture of jazz, funk, soul, and searching rhythms proves an essential and politically relevant entry in the canon of timeless jazz recordings. 180gm audiophile pressing.
DJ Harrison – HazyMoods LP (Stones Throw)
DJ Harrison is Richmond, VA-based producer and multi-instrumentalist Devonne Harris. The son of a radio DJ who introduced him to the world of record collecting, Harris grew up with music, progressing from violin, to high school drum-line, to the Jazz Studies program at Virginia Commonwealth University. Despite his concentration on drumming, he also continued working with other instruments and developed an interest in sampling. Without a computer or sampler, he learned to replay samples on the drums, piano, bass or guitar. DJ Harrison finds himself inspired by local musicians in the Richmond scene that’s as diverse and nonexclusive as they come. Amongst the likes of rappers, producers, punks and bluegrass bands, he falls within reach of an expansive pool of musicians to befriend and collaborate with.
Dokken – Tooth And Nail [Reissue/1984] LP (Friday Music)
180gm audiophile vinyl reissue in a gatefold sleeve.
The Doors – Light My Fire b/w The Crystal Ship [Reissue/1967] 7″ (Elektra)
50 years ago, “Light My Fire” debuted on the Billboard Charts on June 3, 1967. It hit #1 on 29 July 1967 and stayed there for 3 weeks. This is a reissue of the original Japanese 7”.
Evergreen Terrace – Wolfbiker [2007] LP (Metal Blade)
In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Metal Blade has released Evergreen Terrace’s magnum opus Wolfbiker (an album which Outburn hailed as being “indeed badass”) on vinyl for the very first time.
Fairport Convention – Liege & Lief [Reissue/1969] LP (A&M)
180gm vinyl repressing of this classic 1969 album by the British folk legends.
F**k – Baby Loves A Funny Bunny [Reissue/1996] LP+MP3 (Vampire Blues)
For F**k’s 1996 sophomore release, the band got sophomoric: the playing got more playful, and the lyrics got more nonsensical. Think Jonathan Richman’s whimsical sincerity battling the obfuscation of Erik Satie: Baby Loves A Funny Bunny imbues both yin and yang. Includes a vinyl bonus track and a handful of bonus live cuts on an accompanying download.
Jerry Garcia – (Compliments Of) [Reissue/1974] LP (ATO)
Jerry Garcia – Reflections [Reissue/1976] LP (ATO)
Originally released in 1974, (Compliments Of) is Jerry’s second full-length solo studio album and boasts classics from artists like Chuck Berry, Smokey Robinson, and Peter Rowan. Originally released in 1976, Reflections is a mix of roots-oriented styles featuring Garcia’s two main vehicles of musical expression the Grateful Dead and Jerry GarciaBand.
Joe Henderson featuring Alice Coltrane – The Elements [Reissue/1974] LP (Milestone/Fantasy)
The definitive vinyl reissue of the Joe Henderson and Alice Coltrane’s sprawling spiritual-jazz opus. An essential listen addition for all fans of adventurous music.
Illa J – Home LP+MP3 (Jakarta)
Following his self-titled LP, Illa J sometimes known as “John Regal” is a singer, songwriter, rapper, producer, multi- instrumentalist. He takes us on a trip to his hometown Detroit with his third solo album Home. His last LP successfully took Illa J out of his brother and hip-hop legend J Dilla’s shadow to show he is in his own lane.
Iron Maiden – Death On The Road [Reissue/2005] 2xLP (Sanctuary)
Iron Maiden – Flight 666 [Reissue/2008] 2xLP (Sanctuary)
Iron Maiden – The Final Frontier [Reissue/2010] 2xLP (Sanctuary)
Iron Maiden – En Vivo! [2012] 3xLP (Sanctuary)
180gm vinyl reissues now available: three live albums and their fifteenth studio album, 2010’s The Final Frontier.
Ahmad Jamal – Marseille LP (Jazz Village)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New album by the legendary pianist and composer.
Jinjer – King Of Everything LP (Napalm)
“The Ukrainian band Jinjer are a bit of a mash-up of metal sub-genres: they have the cookie monster growl, and sometimes can sound death metal-y, but especially with this third album, King Of Everything, they have emerged as progressive metal: Odd time signatures and tempo shifts abound, with both heavy distorted (and fast) sections, along with clean-guitar dreamier parts, somewhere between Fates Warning/Dream Theatre and Voivod/Tool.” – EntropyMag
Elton John – Don’t Shoot Me I’m Only The Piano Player [Reissue/1973] LP (Mercury)
Elton John – Caribou [Reissue/1974] LP (Mercury)
180gm vinyl reissues celebrating Elton’s 50 years in music.
Júníus Meyvant – Floating Harmonies LP (Shellshock)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Júníus Meyvant is the artist name of Westman Islands born singer-songwriter Unnar Gísli Sigurmundsson. The sound of Júníus Meyvant is a rich and afflicted take on freaky folk pop with a familiar and soulful feel.
Larry Juris – Bedtime Stories [OST/1986] 2xLP+MP3 (Terrorvision)
First time available in any format Original soundtrack to the 1986 horror anthology film composed by Larry Juris, pressed on colored vinyl.
Kinks – One For The Road [Reissue/1980] 2xLP (Friday Music)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Limited audiophile 180gm pink colored vinyl reissue of the Kinks’ 1980 live double-album.
Dua Lipa – Dua Lipa LP (WB)
The self-titled debut studio album by English singer and songwriter Dua Lipa has spawned six singles: “New Love,” “Be The One,” “Last Dance,” “Hotter Than Hell,” “Blow Your Mind (Mwah),” and “Lost In Your Light.” Lipa describes the album as “dark pop.” The lyrical themes revolve around her personal views of love, rising above, sex and self-empowerment. Commenting on the album’s direction, Lipa said “When I had taken interest with my own music, I would listen to Nelly Furtado, P!nk and Destiny’s Child, but as I grew older I found my love for hip-hop … I love the realness behind it, that’s why I try to also bind that into the music.”
Roberto Musci – Loa Of Music [Reissue/1984] 2xLP (Soave)
The Loa Of Music is the first recording project of Milanese composer and musician Roberto Musci inspired by Voodoo Religion; Vever (the magical voodoo paintings) and Loas, the dark and magic spirits. The deep charm of non-Western music had led him to travel for many years across Africa, India and Asia, studying rhythms, scales, performance and interpretation of the most varied traditional and indigenous music. While abroad made many field recordings and collected ethnic instruments that would then be combined with synthesizers and electronics on The Loa Of Music.
Mutation – Mutation III: Dark Black LP (Shellshock)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Mutation III: Dark Black boasts a dazzling array of guest contributions from a great number of similarly demented human beings, including prog metal superstar Devin Townsend, Phil Campbell from Motörhead, Arthur Shepherd of Primitive Weapons, ex-Cardiacs fruitloop Random Jon Poole, Jamie Oliver of UK Subs, Mauro Pawlowski (ex-dEUS) and the mighty Paul Catten (Barrabas, Bed Wetter, Stuntcock, The Sontaran Experiment, ex-Medulla Nocte).
Kate Nash – Made Of Bricks [Reissue/2008] LP (Geffen)
Kate Nash’s most popular songs are both intimate and confrontational, using brief portraits and slang-conversational vocals to illustrate the larger issues going on, like a dinner party that exposes a crumbling relationship on the hit song “Foundations.” Her debut album is back in-print on 180gm heavyweight vinyl.
Arne Nordheim – Electric [1998] 2xLP (Rune Grammophon)
Among the most stunning and musical electronic works ever produced, these five compositions represent the complete electronic works of Norwegian composer Arne Nordheim (1931-2010). They have stood the test of time remarkably well and have been embraced by new generations of influential musicians.
OOIOO – Gold & Green [2000] 2xLP+MP3 (Thrill Jockey)
OOIOOs seminal album Gold & Green is finally widely released on vinyl for the first time. “OOIOO traffic in a crafty kind of post-punk primitivism…the synths, power chords, polyrhythmic drumming and wordless chants building into an irresistible, throbbing whole.” — The Wire
Elvis Presley – Golden Records 1 [Reissue/1958] LP (Friday Music)
Limited 180gm audiophile colored vinyl pressing in a gatefold sleeve.
Quindar – Hip Mobility LP+MP3 (Butterscotch)
Mikael Jorgensen (of Wilco) joins art historian James Merle Thomas as Quindar. Hip Mobility, the duo’s first full-length LP, is built upon deep research into the audio archives of NASA’s golden era, the 1960s and ‘70s. These Space Age recordings – and specifically the tiny, iconic communication beeps known as Quindar Tones – form the basis for Hip Mobility’s electronic compositions. Quindar manipulates these archival recordings beyond recognition, samples and plays them as unique instruments, blends them with Jorgensen’s vintage analog synths, and sometimes simply plays them back verbatim.
Rascal Flatts – Back To Us LP (Big Machine)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The best-selling country vocal group of the past decade returns with their tenth studio album.
Martin Rev – Demolition 9 LP (Atlas Réalisations)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Demolition 9 is New York electronic music pioneer Martin Rev’s ninth solo album, and first new material since 2009. Comprised of 34 wildly divergent vignettes — only one of which reaches three minutes in length — he describes it as autobiographical “yearning for joy and the unattainable perfection of the artistic ideal.” From violent percussion experiments to neo-classical reveries to noir-sleaze abstractions and beyond, Demolition 9 offers a radically non-linear spelunk through the dreams and distractions of one of the 20th century’s most influential sonic iconoclasts.
Rise Against – Wolves LP (Virgin)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Throughout its career, Rise Against has kept its moral compass steady, using its international punk platform to speak out for social justice. With The Black Market (2014) follow-up Wolves, the band challenges fans to join them in creating a bold new identity together. The album is about recognizing the power within; it’s a primal call for the prey to become the hunters. “In many ways, a Rise Against show is a safe space for our fans,” lead singer Tim McIlrath says. “But I realized that I don’t only want to create safe spaces, I want to create dangerous spaces where misogyny can’t exist, where xenophobia can’t exist. I want to create spaces where those sentiments don’t have any air, and they suffocate: where those ideas die. Wolves isn’t about creating a safe space, it’s about creating a space that’s dangerous for injustice.”
Sonny Rollins – Saxophone Colossus [Reissue/1956] LP (Prestige/Fantasy)
The sixth album Sonny Rollins recorded as the leader of his own band, Saxophone Colossus features Sonny on saxophone, Tommy Flanagan on piano, Doug Watkins on bass and Max Roach on drums. It was recorded in a single day, the tight knit of the musicians enabling them to record most of the songs in one take, then something of a rarity. 180gm pressing in a Stoughton jacket.
The Rumjacks – Gangs Of New Holland [Reissue/2010] LP (ABC)
The Rumjacks – Sober & Godless [Reissue/2015] LP (ABC)
Formed in 2008 by Frankie McLaughlin (vocals) and Johnny McKelvey (bass), The Rumjacks combine a variety of musical influences, including elements of punk rock and traditional Celtic folk.
Saint Vitus – Lillie: F-65 LP (Season Of Mist)
Ultra-clear vinyl reissue of the doom metal band’s 2012 album.
Kyu Sakamoto – Sukiyaki & Other Japanese Hits LP (Go Bop)
A cool collection of early-mid ’60s recordings by Japanese crooner extraordinaire Kyu Sakamoto. These heartwarming tunes, with “Sukiyaki” being the best-known cut, draw on soul, doo-wop, quasi-Japanese exotica, Latin and more.
Soundtrack – Big Little Lies (Music From The HBO Series) 2xLP (ABKCO)
Includes tracks by Michael Kiwanuka, Charles Bradley, Martha Wainwright, Agnes Obel, Irma Thomas, Zoe Kravitz and many others.
Soundtrack – The Fate Of The Furious: The Album LP (Artist Partner Group/Atlantic)
Released last April on CD – now available on vinyl. The Fate Of The Furious (the franchise’s eighth release) marks the first film of the franchise since The Fast And The Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006) not to star Paul Walker, who died in a single-vehicle crash on November 30, 2013 during the filming of Furious 7 (2015). The hip-hop heavy soundtrack features Travis Scott, Migos, Young Thug, 2 Chainz, Wiz Khalifa, G-Eazy, Post Malone, Jeremih, Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Yachty, Kodak Black, Kehlani, PnB Rock and more.
Melvin Sparks – Live At Nectar’s LP (One Note)
Archive release. Until he was about 20, Texas-born Melvin Sparks was a rhythm & blues guitarist, backing Jackie Wilson, Curtis Mayfield and Marvin Gaye as a member of The Upsetters. But Sparks gave up his seat on The Upsetters’ bus in New York City, where a chance introduction to George Benson led him to a place in soul jazz history. This release documents Melvin’s final band just months before his death in 2011.
Squeeze – Squeeze [Reissue/1978] LP (A&M)
Squeeze – Argybargy [Reissue/1980] LP (A&M)
Guided by the redoubtable songwriting team of Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, enduring South London quintet Squeeze have created one of the most covetable – and quintessentially English – catalogs in pop. Their first and third LPs have been repressed on 180gm vinyl.
Sun Ra – The Magic City [Reissue/1966] LP (Cosmic Myth)
This 2017 definitive vinyl edition has been remastered with historical and technical notes. Although shorter in scope than side A’s magnum opus, the four works on The Magic City’s flip side reflect the same improvisational approach, spatiality, and lack of structure. One session outtake, “Other Worlds,” an alternate version of “Shadow World,” is included as a bonus track on side B.
Thor – Live In Detroit 1985 LP (Deadline Music)
Digitally remastered edition of this vintage live album from classic metal superhero Thor.
Tradition – Captain Ganja And The Space Patrol [Reissue/1980] LP (Bokeh Versions)
Years before Scientist and Jammy battled the space invaders, Tradition dreamt up a sci-fi jazz/dub odyssey in north London. Captain Ganja And The Space Patrol is one of the most singular dub albums that barely saw the light of day.
Umphrey’s McGee – Hall Of Fame: Class Of 2016 LP (Nothing Too Fancy)
Fans voted on album track listing, chosen from 100 live shows performed in 2016. Band weighed in on favorite selections for inclusion, resulting in our first joint band/fan collaborative album track listing. Recorded at many of the nation’s marquee venues including Red Rocks, multiple Fillmore Theatres, Chicago’s Aragon Ballroom.
Univers Zero – Heresie [Reissue/1979] LP (Sub Rosa)
A classic of chamber rock music, featuring heavy use of dissonance and dark, brooding, and extremely complex melodies. Limited edition orange and gold vinyl.
Various Artists [DJ Tennis] – DJ-Kicks 3xLP (!K7)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Next up on DJ-Kicks is Life And Death label founder DJ Tennis. His knack for the musical and emotive side of things characterizes both cerebral mixes he has put together here including versions of tunes by Pole and Frank Brettschneider. All in all, it’s a thoughtfully composed mix that’s subversive yet seductive in equal measure.
Various Artists – Derrick Harriott Rock Steady 1966-1969 2xLP (Dubstore)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. A selection of magical rocksteady music from one of the masters of the genre and forerunners in Jamaican music from its very beginning, Derrick Harriott, along with a stellar cast, showcases some superb rocksteady.
Various Artists – The Rough Guide To Bottleneck Blues (Second Edition) LP (World Music Network)
Whatever the worldly origins of using a glass or metal object to slide across the strings of a guitar, this style has become famously associated with the blues. For many of the finest early blues practitioners it was the ultimate mode of musical expression as it could emulate the sound of the human voice to great effect. Employing open tunings, guitarists would use anything that they could find to produce the desired effect, ranging from pocketknives to medicine bottles and even bones, but because using a broken bottleneck (without the sharp edges) was probably the most popular method, the term ‘bottleneck’ has endured.
Gillian Welch – The Harrow And The Harvest [2011] LP (Acony)
The long-awaited first pressing of Gillian Welch’s The Harrow & The Harvest was mastered direct from the original tapes through custom Ortofon amplifiers to a Neumann VMS-80 cutting system and plated and pressed on standard-weight audiophile-quality vinyl.
Matt Wertz – Gun Shy LP (Handwritten)
Released last year on CD – now available on vinyl. Singer-songwriter Matt Wertz forced himself out of his adopted hometown of Nashville, TN and took to Los Angeles. Thousands of miles from home and fueled by infectious, ’90s-inspired beats, Gun Shy came to life.
Gary Wilson & The Blind Dates – Live At CBGB LP (Feeding Tube)
Really, really strange man Gary Wilson gained his reputation with a series of oddball records that could be perfectly summed up as prog-based lounge music. This release documents a live set at New York’s CBGBs – one of the few venues in which he was welcome to play. The back up by a pact of ex-New Yorkers called The Blind Dates gives these songs a harder punkier edge.
Wolfheart – Winterborn [2013] 2xLP (Spinefarm)
Death/folk metal band Wolfheart began as a solo project from Finnish musician Tuomas Saukkonen, who has spent time in a half-dozen other metal bands including Black Sun Aeon, Dawn Of Solace, and Before The Dawn. Debut album Winterborn is now available for the first time on vinyl.
Brenton Wood – Oogum Boogum [Reissue/1967] LP (Craft Recordings)
Brenton Wood – Baby You Got It [Reissue/1967] LP (Craft Recordings)
Brenton Wood’s charmingly unpredictable phrasing and his infectious sense of good times made the smooth uptown soul of “The Oogum Boogum Song” into a hit in 1967. His second album Baby You Got It features the smash hit, “Gimme Little Sign” as well as his signature ballads “Me & You” and “Catch You On The Rebound.”
Link Wray – Link Wray [Reissue/1971] LP (Future Days Recordings)
Recorded in a shaky makeshift chicken shack in rural Maryland, Link Wray’s eponymous 1971 solo album is a compelling and forward-looking piece of honest, handmade Americana. This album is vastly different from his previous work, foregoing instrumentals entirely. Instead, Wray, left with only one lung following a bout with tuberculosis in 1956, gives us his raw voice, full of spit and vinegar, as he blends elements of country, rock ‘n’ roll, roots, folk and gospel marked with fuzzy guitar and booming percussion.
Cassettes:
Arcade Fire – Everything Now (Columbia)
Fifth album from the Canadian alt-rock band. Everything Now was produced by Arcade Fire, Daft Punk’s Thomas Bangalter, and Steve Mackey, with co-production by Markus Dravs.
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