Social Media Program Titles Released This Week:
Drive-By Truckers – The New OK CD/LP (ATO)
Drive-By Truckers released The Unraveling in January 2020 and set out for what was supposed to be a full year of touring. Needless to say, it did not go as planned. The New OK is a phrase Patterson Hood found himself saying a lot these past few months. This new album, made up of songs left over from The Unraveling sessions and new ones written and recorded since, hopefully balances out the darkness of our current situation with a hope for better days and nights ahead. [Limited colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Paul McCartney – Paul McCartney III CD/LP (Capitol)
50 years following the release of his self-titled first solo album McCartney, featuring Paul McCartney playing every instrument and writing and recording every song, Macca delivers McCartney III. Paul hadn’t planned to release an album in 2020, but in the isolation of “Rockdown,” he soon found himself fleshing out some existing musical sketches and creating even more new ones. Before long an eclectic collection of spontaneous songs would become McCartney III: a stripped back, self-produced and, quite literally, solo work marking the opening of a new decade, in the tradition of 1970’s McCartney and 1980’s McCartney II. Recorded earlier in 2020 in Sussex, McCartney III is mostly built from live takes of Paul on vocals and guitar or piano, overdubbing his bass playing, drumming, etc. atop that foundation. McCartney III spans a vast and intimate range of modes and moods, from soul searching to wistful, from playful to raucous and all points between. [A Songbook edition containing piano/vocal/guitar arrangements for all songs from McCartney III and accompanying CD is also available, as well as a stand-alone ‘smoky tint’ cassette edition.]
December/January Marketing Program/ Banner/ Listening Station Titles Promoted This Week:
I Prevail – Post Traumatic CD/2xLP (Fearless)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Grammy-nominated rock powerhouse I Prevail present a new 17-track collection Post Traumatic featuring live, reimagined, and acoustic versions of songs from their blockbuster 2019 sophomore effort Trauma. Post Traumatic demonstrates the many sides of I Prevail’s musical personality. Live versions of the barnburner “Bow Down” and the unforgettable and contemplative “Breaking Down” capture the band’s onstage prowess and passionate exchange of energy with its diehard fanbase. Elsewhere, a stripped-down version of “Every Time You Leave”, featuring Juno Award-nominated Canadian singer Delaney Jane, shows off the band’s more melodic side. Collaborations with EDM superstar Illenium and rap dynamo Joyner Lucas are also included. Ultimately, Post Traumatic is a multi-faceted release that calls attention to all of I Prevail’s layers. [Limited edition purple colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Paul McCartney – Paul McCartney III CD/LP (Capitol)
50 years following the release of his self-titled first solo album McCartney, featuring Paul McCartney playing every instrument and writing and recording every song, Macca delivers McCartney III. Paul hadn’t planned to release an album in 2020, but in the isolation of “Rockdown,” he soon found himself fleshing out some existing musical sketches and creating even more new ones. Before long an eclectic collection of spontaneous songs would become McCartney III: a stripped back, self-produced and, quite literally, solo work marking the opening of a new decade, in the tradition of 1970’s McCartney and 1980’s McCartney II. Recorded earlier in 2020 in Sussex, McCartney III is mostly built from live takes of Paul on vocals and guitar or piano, overdubbing his bass playing, drumming, etc. atop that foundation. McCartney III spans a vast and intimate range of modes and moods, from soul searching to wistful, from playful to raucous and all points between. [A Songbook edition containing piano/vocal/guitar arrangements for all songs from McCartney III and accompanying CD is also available, as well as a stand-alone ‘smoky tint’ cassette edition.]
CDs + Vinyl:
Ævangelist – Nightmarecatcher CD (Hells Headbangers)
Nightmarecatcher sees Matron Thorn exploring an exquisitely lurking dread, patiently simmering his psychedelic death metal delirium to a hallucinogenic boil, bringing forth a miasmic meltdown.
Azarath – Saint Desecration CD (Agonia)
Saint Desecration is a new extreme illumination revealed by Azarath at the altar of blackened death metal.
Buju Banton – ‘Til Shiloh CD (Island)
Digitally remastered and expanded 25th anniversary edition. ‘Til Shiloh explored Banton’s Rastafarian faith and is highlighted on global hits like “Til I’m Laid To Rest”, “Untold Stories”, “Not
An Easy Road”, and includes fan favorites “Murderer”, “Champion”, and “Wanna Be Loved”. This reissue features three new bonus tracks created and mixed by Buju exclusively. [Vinyl edition due January 15.]
The Black Keys – Brothers [Reissue/2010] CD/2xLP/9×7” (Nonesuch)
Deluxe digitally remastered and expanded Anniversary edition celebrates the 10th anniversary of the duo’s breakthrough album. Both CD and vinyl formats include three previously unavailable songs. The extensive booklet features new liner notes written by David Fricke and previously unseen photos. [Limited edition 7” box set contains a 60-page book.]
Demonical – World Domination CD (Agonia)
Brutal, melodic and insolently Swedish death metal.
Denial Of God – The Horrors Of Satan CD (Hells Headbangers)
New album from the black horror metal band. [Vinyl edition due January 15.]
Drive-By Truckers – The New OK CD/LP (ATO)
Drive-By Truckers released The Unraveling in January 2020 and set out for what was supposed to be a full year of touring. Needless to say, it did not go as planned. The New OK is a phrase Patterson Hood found himself saying a lot these past few months. This new album, made up of songs left over from The Unraveling sessions and new ones written and recorded since, hopefully balances out the darkness of our current situation with a hope for better days and nights ahead. [Limited colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Elephant Tree – Day Of Doom Live CD/LP (Magnetic Eye)
A blistering live document of flagship MER band Elephant Tree tearing it up onstage at the Day of Doom label showcase at Brooklyn’s Saint Vitus Bar. This once-in-a-lifetime gathering was held in November 2019 to celebrate the label’s first decade. It featured nine roster acts performing back-to-back, with the four headline sets captured live by Chris Johnson (Deafheaven, Summoner) to commemorate the event as a set of exclusive live albums. Emerging from England in 2015, Elephant Tree was handpicked by MER from an early demo submission thanks to their warm, syrupy fuzz and soaring vocal harmonies. [Limited dark green colored vinyl pressing also available.]
ENHYPEN – Border : Day One [Dusk Version] CD (Belift Lab)
ENHYPEN – Border : Day One [Dawn Version] CD (Belift Lab)
Debut album the from seven-member boy group formed by each receiving the most votes on Korean making the band show I-Land. ENHYPEN is similar to hyphen, which connects one word to another. ENHYPEN connects the seven boys together to realize their ultimate dream. Each unit includes a photobook, a clear cover story, a random bookmark, three random photo cards, a poster and an exclusive postcard.
Elina Duni/Rob Luft/Fred Thomas/Matthieu Michel – Lost Ships CD (ECM)
Elina Duni and Rob Luft’s programme of songs of love and exile has been gathering momentum since 2017, when the Albanian-Swiss singer and the British guitarist began their collaboration. Along the way they have been augmented by distinguished guests, flugelhornist Matthieu Michel and pianist/percussionist Fred Thomas here making significant contributions to the overarching concept. The migration crisis, a theme explored on Elina’s Partir album, is again a central issue, so too ecological concerns.
Eternal Champion – Ravening Iron CD (No Remorse)
Ravening Iron has the massive sound that epic heavy metal needs nowadays, faithful to the past, yet fresh and exciting with Eternal Champion’s unique identity and aesthetic in full presence. The eight tracks are glorious and uplifting, with heavy riffs, synths, a hard and pounding rhythm section, narrating stories and legends from the depths of time and fantasy.
Nils Frahm – Empty CD/LP (Erased Tapes)
Conceived of just before Nils broke his thumb and composed the similarly intimate solo piano album Screws, Empty is a soothing vessel of eight simple and serene pieces originally recorded as the music to a short art film he shot with his friend and film director Benoît Toulemonde.
Gas – Zauberberg [Reissue/1997] CD (Kompakt)
Gas – Königsforst’ [Reissue/1998] CD (Kompakt)
Gas – Pop [Reissue/2000] CD (Kompakt)
CD reissue of Wolfgang Voigt’s now legendary first three albums under is classical-loops-ambient-techno project Gas.
Ghost Brigade – MMV – MMXX 4xCD (Season Of Mist)
Discover the Finnish heavy metal band’s full discography with this four-CD box set.
Michael Giacchino – Travelogue Volume 1 CD/LP (Death Waltz)
Academy Award-winning composer Michael Giacchino’s debut non-soundtrack album. Travelogue Volume 1 is indebted to the easy listening wonders of such legendary musicians as Martin Denny and Lex Baxter (both of whom pioneered the lounge music of the ’50s & ’60s). [Limited blue & orange colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Glorious Depravity – Ageless Violence CD/LP (Translation Loss)
Death metal titan supergroup Glorious Depravity, featuring members of Pyrrhon, Woe, Mutilation Rites, Belus, Cleanteeth, Weeping Sores and Seputus, present their crushing debut record; seven songs of sinister old school death metal in the vein of Cannibal Corpse, Death, Ripping Corpse, Suffocation and Deicide.
Iced Earth – Iced Earth [Reissue/1990] CD/LP (Century Media)
Originally released in 1990, Iced Earth now returns in a brand-new 30th anniversary edition featuring high class remastering courtesy of Zeuss (Overkill, Queensrÿche). Jon Schaffer comments: “This 30-year-old debut classic has been remixed and remastered from the original 2-inch tapes by Zeuss, and it sounds fantastic. It has a modern touch and still retains the dynamics of the original release. This is a big step forward sonically and visually.”
Inquisition – Black Mass For A Black Grave CD (Agonia)
New album from the Columbian death metal band.
Jay Electronica – Written Testimony CD/LP (Roc Nation)
Jay Electronica delivers his long-awaited official debut album, A Written Testimony, which the New Orleans-born rapper/producer says was “recorded over 40 days and 40 nights, starting from December 26th.” With nods to his Big Easy upbringing and Muslim faith, Electronica handles most of the production himself while additional guest collaborators include AraabMuzik, Hit-Boy, Swizz Beatz, The Alchemist, No I.D., Travis Scott, James Blake, James Fauntleroy, and The-Dream. [Limited edition white colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Ali Akbar Khan – Bear’s Sonic Journals: That Which Colors The Mind 2xCD (Owsley Stanley)
More than two hours of music from Ali Akbar Khan’s May 29, 1970 live performance at the Family Dog at the Great Highway, San Francisco, CA.
The Kinks – Lola Versus Powerman And The Moneygoround, Part One [Reissue/1970] CD/2xCD (Sanctuary)
Newly remastered from original HD master tapes. Recorded and released in 1970 the concept album Lola Versus Powerman And The Moneygoround, Part One is a satirical appraisal of the music industry and life on the road. [The deluxe double-CD edition adds alternate mono/stereo versions and mixes, new remixes, live and film tracks. [Super deluxe triple-CD+2×7” box set edition due January 22.]
Lie In Ruins – Floating In Timeless Streams CD/LP (Dark Descent)
Finnish death metal’s finest.
Skip Marley – Higher Place CDEP (Island)
Skip Marley, whose history-making global hit “Slow Down” with H.E.R. reached the #1 spot on the Billboard Adult R&B chart – a first for a Jamaican-born artist – releases his anticipated debut EP, Higher Place. The seven-track project was a call to action to Skip’s generation, to inspire people to ascend to a higher level of love and consciousness. The project includes new ideas and experiences as well as wisdom that has been passed down the lineage he likes to call Marley Mantras.
Paul McCartney – Paul McCartney III CD/LP/Cassette (Capitol)
50 years following the release of his self-titled first solo album McCartney, featuring Paul McCartney playing every instrument and writing and recording every song, Macca delivers McCartney III. Paul hadn’t planned to release an album in 2020, but in the isolation of “Rockdown,” he soon found himself fleshing out some existing musical sketches and creating even more new ones. Before long an eclectic collection of spontaneous songs would become McCartney III: a stripped back, self-produced and, quite literally, solo work marking the opening of a new decade, in the tradition of 1970’s McCartney and 1980’s McCartney II. Recorded earlier in 2020 in Sussex, McCartney III is mostly built from live takes of Paul on vocals and guitar or piano, overdubbing his bass playing, drumming, etc. atop that foundation. McCartney III spans a vast and intimate range of modes and moods, from soul searching to wistful, from playful to raucous and all points between. [A Songbook edition containing piano/vocal/guitar arrangements for all songs from McCartney III and accompanying CD is also available, as well as a stand-alone ‘smoky tint cassette edition.]
NCT – The 2nd Album RESONANCE Pt. 2 [Arrival Ver.] CD (SM Entertainment)
NCT – The 2nd Album RESONANCE Pt. 2 [Departure Ver.] CD (SM Entertainment)
The South Korean boy group skillfully combines a ‘90s R&B vibe with a more modern, electronic sound, leaning into the romantic boy band-ness of it all, with piano ballads showcasing the various members’ beautiful voices. Includes 21 songs including all of the songs from Pt.1 and eight new tracks of various genres.
Raw Material – Raw Material [Reissue/1970] CD (Sunbeam)
CD reissue of a 1970 prog-psych classic. Raw Material made little impact on the crowded London scene in the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, but their blend of prog, psych and jazz has gone on to become a firm favorite with cognoscenti all over the world.
Maggie Rogers – Notes From The Archive: Recordings 2011-2016 2xCD (Debay Sounds)
Grammy-nominated producer/songwriter/performer Maggie Rogers releases a special collection of archival music: Notes From The Archives: Recordings 2011-2016. The 16-track collection features newly remastered versions of tracks from Maggie’s early albums and six previously unreleased songs. Rogers’ 2019 Capitol Records debut album, Heard It In A Past Life entered Billboard’s Top Album Sales Chart at No. 1, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and received widespread critical acclaim. [Vinyl edition due February 19.]
Shed The Skin – Pale Divine CD/LP (Hells Headbangers)
New album from the Satanic death metal band.
George Thorogood and The Destroyers – Live In Boston 1982: The Complete Concert 2xCD/4xLP (Craft Recordings)
This new, comprehensive reissue from George Thorogood and The Destroyers lets fans re-live the band’s legendary November 1982 concert at Boston’s Bradford Ballroom. The 27-track Live In Boston, 1982: The Complete Concert captures the band’s fiery set in its entirety, including spoken introductions. An earlier edition of the album, released in 2010, only offered highlights from the evening. This newly-remastered version adds 12 previously-unreleased tracks – including many of the band’s most iconic songs, like “Who Do You Love?” and “Cocaine Blues”, as well as “Bad To The Bone”.
Trees – Trees 4xCD/4xLP (Earth Recordings)
It’s now over fifty years since Trees’ formation and, although ‘acid folk’ has now become a sub-category in the lexicon of record dealers and music critics, and although founder member David Costa feels the original noughties reissue helped consolidate a gathering wave of curiosity, they themselves remain in the shadows. This eponymous collection brings together both albums adding shiny alternate mixes of key tracks along with a selection of radio sessions and demos, all sounding brighter and cleaner than ever before.
Un – The Tomb Of All Things [Reissue/2015] CD/2xLP (Translation Loss)
The Tomb Of All Things carved a new path of leaden, mournful dirges and massive cosmic soundscapes. Originally formed as a trio in the summer of 2012, the band combined their collective experiences and influences to create a unique blend of doom and post-metal here.
Various Artists – Gunsmoke Volume 5 & 6 CD (Stag-O-Lee)
A collection of oddball country weepers, moody rockabilly and popcorn noir from the 1950s and early ‘60s.
Violent Hammer – Riders Of The Wasteland CD/LP (Hells Headbangers)
Hailing from the ever-fertile Finnish black/death underground, Violent Hammer formed in 2006.
The Wedding Present & Friends – Not From Where I’m Standing CD/2xLP (Come Play With Me)
Not From Where I’m Standing is a collection of 20 Bond themes covered by current and former members of The Wedding Present. 100% of the profits from this benefit album’s sales will be donated to the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM). It arrives ahead of the release of the long-awaited new 2021 James Bond film, No Time To Die. A band always exploring new ways to showcase their music, this serves as fascinating insight into the strength and diversity of its members.
This Week’s Vinyl Exclusives:
Actually – Predator Romantic LP (Apollon)
Limited colored vinyl pressing. Originally released digitally in 2015, Predator Romantic is the second and last Actually studio album, before she formed the killer band Patriarchy. The album contains music from her movies Viking Angel and Heavenly Sin.
Alcest – Écailles de Lune [Reissue/2010] LP/LP+CD (Prophecy)
For those, who want to follow in those footsteps and journey to another place, Alcest offer a key. Just close your eyes and listen to Écailles de Lune and you will be taken far away to a world of musical wonders and haunting beauty – but beware, even roses of the otherworld have thorns. gatefold LP (180gm black vinyl, white vinyl, and blue vinyl pressings) includes silver hot foil and UV spot varnish on cover, bonus track, padded inner sleeve and protection sleeve. [Deluxe “Ocean Edition” box set includes the gatefold LP with exclusive blue-black marbled 180gm colored vinyl, hardcover CD book, back patch with cover artwork and art print with cover artwork.
Dave Alvin – From An Old Guitar: Rare And Unreleased Recordings CD (Yep Roc)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. This 16-song collection features studio performances that Dave Alvin recorded over the years for his own albums or for tribute albums but mainly they’re just things he did for the pure kicks of playing music he loves with musicians he loves and admires. The songs range from some originals to interpretations of compositions by dear friends like Peter David Case, Chris Smither and the late Bill Morrissey to tunes written by heroes like Willie Dixon, Bob Dylan, Lil Hardin Armstrong, Earl Hooker and Marty Robbins. The music ranges from acoustic blues and ballads to electric barroom blues, folk/rock and even a little country/rock.
Sara Bareilles – More Love – Songs From Little Voice Season One LP (Epic)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. After quietly teasing its arrival, Grammy Award-winner and Tony and Emmy Award-nominated singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles releases More Love – Songs From Little Voice Season One. For the surprise album, Sara personally performed and recorded the ten tracks she had originally penned for Little Voice (Original Series Soundtrack). Taking the creative reins, she produced the project alongside Tyler Chester. This notably marks the first time she has unveiled her renditions of these songs. Among its ten tracks, the record includes her version of the lead single “More Love”.
Between The Buried And Me – Colors [Reissue/2007] 2xLP (Craft Recordings)
Digitally remixed and remastered edition of the critically acclaimed fifth studio album from the Grammy-nominated progressive metal five-piece.
Bleeding Out – Lifelong Death Fantasy LP (Prophecy)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Lifelong Death Fantasy is a brutal, unrelenting, and utterly pulverizing, authority-bashing offering that captures the spirit of true old-school crossover deathgrind. A furious inexorable sonic pummeling, this album becomes the soundtrack to a civilization on the brink of rot and decay during an epoch of desperation, virulence, and uncertainty.
The Brummies – Automatic World LP (Sandbox)
Limited canary yellow colored vinyl LP pressing. The Brummies, who have played together since high school, grew up outside of Birmingham. They count The Beatles, Elton John, ELO, and My Morning Jacket among influences.
Ashley Campbell – Something Lovely LP (Whistle Stop)
Ashley Campbell’s sophomore album finds her once more in assured form, the weight of one of the biggest names in country music seemingly no burden to her. Though very much her own woman, with her own style, the undeniable influence of her father is given a classy nod by the album’s cover which features her sporting a former Glen Campbell stage outfit that fitted her like a glove unaltered.
Mariah Carey – The Emancipation Of Mimi [Reissue/2005] 2xLP (Def Jam)
Double vinyl LP pressing, including four bonus tracks, of Mariah Carey’s 10th album. The Emancipation Of Mimi features collaborations with Jermaine Dupri, Snoop Dogg, Twista, Nelly and Pharrell Williams.
Childish Gambino – Because The Internet [Reissue/2013] 2xLP (Glassnote)
Double 180gm vinyl pressing of the sophomore album from Childish Gambino, the stage name of Grammy, Golden Globe, and Emmy Award-winning recording artist, actor, and producer Donald Glover. Released in 2013, the album lends perspective to the complications born from an Internet- obsessed society. In creating Because The Internet, Glover set out to not just release an album but to build a world, also releasing a companion screenplay and short film, Clapping For The Wrong Reasons. The album features appearances from Chance The Rapper, Jhene Aiko, and Azaelia Banks.
Jim Croce – You Don’t Mess Around With Jim [Reissue/1972] LP (BMG)
Jim Croce – Life And Times [Reissue/1973] LP (BMG)
Jim Croce – Photographs & Memories (His Greatest Hits) [Reissue/1974] LP (BMG)
Jim Croce – I Got A Name [Reissue/1975] LP (BMG)
Reissued last week on CD – now back in-print on vinyl. Croce was nominated for two 1973 Grammy awards in the Pop Male Vocalist and Record of the Year categories for the song “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown” which appears on Live And Times and Photographs & Memories (His Greatest Hits).
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – So Far [Reissue/1974] LP (Atlantic)
Vinyl reissue of the fourth album by Crosby, Stills & Nash, their third as Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and the first compilation album released by the group.
The Decemberists – Castaways And Cutouts [Reissue/2002] LP+MP3 (Kill Rock Stars)
The Decemberists – Her Majesty [Reissue/2003] LP+MP3 (Kill Rock Stars)
Castaways and Cutouts is the first full-length album by The Decemberists, originally released on May 21, 2002. The album’s title is taken from a lyric of the song “California One/Youth And Beauty Brigade”. For all intents and purposes, 2003’s Her Majesty could best be described as the charming older brother to Castaways And Cutouts. And, while being recognizably related to its predecessor, it’s an altogether different beast. Present and accounted for are the Victorian literary tropes, the rakish mariners, and the Dickensian downtrodden that slouched their way across the laser imprinted surface of Castaways; in Her Majesty a new cast of characters is introduced as well, giving further depth to the richly bizarre songcraft of Colin Meloy.
The Dillinger Escape Plan – Option Paralysis [Reissue/2010] LP (Season Of Mist)
Limited edition transparent turquois colored vinyl pressing. At first glance, Option Paralysis (2010) seems like a highly inappropriate title to describe the constantly evolving output of The Dillinger Escape Plan. But once you’re faced with the cumulative power and vision of guitarist Ben Weinman, vocalist Greg Puciato, bassist Liam Wilson, guitarist Jeff Tuttle and drummer Billy Rymer, you’ll wonder-right after you pick yourself up off the floor – why more bands don’t achieve similar force-of-nature status. Produced by Steve Evetts, Dillinger’s music is positively abundant with possibilities.
Dr. John – Gumbo Blues LP (Purple Pyramid)
Limited edition colored vinyl pressing. Revered New Orleans musical genius Dr. John mixes with contemporary blues artists to make a most delicious multi-flavored musical gumbo!Includes performances by blues veterans Sonny Landreth and Joe Louis Walker plus newcomers Chantel McGregor, King Solomon Hicks and Mike Dawes as well as fellow New Orleans icon Doug Kershaw.
Snooks Eagling – The Imperial Recordings Vol. 1 LP (Naked Lunch)
Produced by the great New Orleans producer Dave Bartholomew, these early ’60s recordings for the Imperial label are a perfect showcase for the eclectic blues guitarist and singer known as Snooks Eaglin. Snooks’ ability to play a wide range of songs in different styles and make them his own, earned him the nickname The Human Jukebox. This is a superb introduction to his music. Some sort of hot Creole recipe based on many different ingredients (blues, rock ‘n’ roll, country, Latin plus a hint of Ray Charles) all mixed up into a deep R&B soup.
Emma Donovan and The Putbacks – Crossover LP (Hope Street)
Released last week on CD – now available on vinyl. Iconic Indigenous Australian soul singer Emma Donovan and powerhouse rhythm combo The Putbacks present their much-anticipated sophomore album. Personal, powerful lyrics and masterful musicianship combine to deliver a uniquely soulful LP, reflective of Emma’s unique experience and the deep, dark, sophisticated funk that only The Putbacks can provide.
Everything In Slow Motion – Influence LP (Facedown)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New album from the ever-evolving, hard rock-meets-post-hardcore project.
Dominic Fike – What Could Possibly Go Wrong LP (Columbia)
Debut studio album by the American singer and rapper. “Comprising of 14 scorching, razor-sharp vignettes…Fike dips his toe in every genre possible, from party-pop (‘Chicken Tenders’, ‘Wurli’) to slinky R&B (‘Vampire’, ‘What’s For Dinner’), all of which comes with just about the right level of self-pity (‘Superstar Shit’)” – NME
Peter Gabriel – Growing Up Live LP (Real World Prod. Ltd.)
First time vinyl pressing. In 2002 and 2003, following the release of his album Up, Peter Gabriel went on the road with his Growing Up tour, once again collaborating with production designer
Robert Lepage to create a spectacular and theatrical live experience. The tour took in thirty-two cities across the USA, Canada and Europe and this concert performance was recorded over two nights at the Filaforum in Milan in May 2003, with Gabriel and the band performing in the round at the center of the arena. It includes special guest appearances by The Blind Boys of Alabama, Sevara Nazarkhan, Dr. Hukwe Zawose and Charles Zawose and the voice of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
Ghostemane – Anti-Icon LP (Blackmage)
Anti-Icon tours Ghostemane’s mind, for better and worse. He mined his darkest experiences, tore open the wounds of his past, conjured every sound he’s ever loved to conceive the heaviest experience he could envision. The rise and fall. Ecstasy in pain. The fragility of the quiet moments after the crash. The deafening silence filling your brain, forcing you to scream it away. The battles raging inside you.
Grayceon – Mothers Weavers Vultures LP (Translation Loss)
Grayceon is an atypical power trio from San Francisco comprised of guitar, drums, and cello. Screaming melodic lines over distinct guitar chunk, doom riffs, jazz chord progressions, intricate folk-like delicacies, and just about everything in between, Grayceon’s sound defies the boundaries of the metal/rock/progressive genres.
Bruce Haack – The Electric Lucifer [Reissue/1970] LP (Telephone Explosion)
Haack’s 1970 electronic acid rock masterpiece is back in-print on vinyl.
Hundredth – Somewhere Nowhere LP (Diggers Factory)
New album from the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina rock band.
I Prevail – Post Traumatic 2xLP (Fearless)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Grammy-nominated rock powerhouse I Prevail present a new 17-track collection Post Traumatic featuring live, reimagined, and acoustic versions of songs from their blockbuster 2019 sophomore effort Trauma. Post Traumatic demonstrates the many sides of I Prevail’s musical personality. Live versions of the barnburner “Bow Down” and the unforgettable and contemplative “Breaking Down” capture the band’s onstage prowess and passionate exchange of energy with its diehard fanbase. Elsewhere, a stripped-down version of “Every Time You Leave”, featuring Juno Award-nominated Canadian singer Delaney Jane, shows off the band’s more melodic side. Collaborations with EDM superstar Illenium and rap dynamo Joyner Lucas are also included. Ultimately, Post Traumatic is a multi-faceted release that calls attention to all of I Prevail’s layers. [Limited edition purple colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Ashton Irwin – Superbloom LP (Ashton Irwin Music)
As a member of the Australian pop-rock quartet 5 Seconds Of Summer, Ashton Irwin has enjoyed a phenomenal career. His debut solo album draws from the broad collection of artists he loves; Foo Fighters, Nick Drake, Helmet, Silverchair, Stone Temple Pilots – with lyrics that touch on every aspect of his life. It’s profound songwriting about his childhood, alcoholism, depression, body dysmorphia, death, addiction, despair and hope.
Jewel – Pieces Of You [Reissue/1995] 4xLP (Craft Recordings)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. This 25th anniversary limited edition reissue of Jewel’s debut album had been newly remastered and features a dog’s dinner of bonus tracks.
Alicia Keys – Alicia 2xLP (RCA)
Double white colored vinyl pressing of the recent studio release from the R&B superstar. Alicia features the singles “Show Me Love”, “Time Machine”, and “Underdog”.
Khemmis – Absolution [Reissue/2015] LP (20 Buck Spin)
Limited ‘beer with black butterfly with red(ish) splatter’ colored vinyl pressing. The six meticulously crafted songs on Absolution reveal a level of musicianship and writing skill seldom heard on debut albums. Often within the scope of a single song Khemmis veers effortlessly between the crushing heaviness of Southern sludge and the somber melodicism of traditional doom, cohesively weaving the disparate styles into their own immediately recognizable form.
Killing Joke – Pandemonium [Reissue/1984] 2xLP (Spinefarm)
Reissued last week on CD – now available on vinyl. Pandemonium – originally released in 1984 and partially recorded inside the Great Pyramid of Giza, this is KJ’s biggest-selling album to date. Featuring new cover artwork from designer Mike Coles – stays true to the original tracklist, with both of the celebrated Cybersank remixes for “Pandemonium” and “Millennium” included.
Kraftwerk –Live In Koeln Sartory Saal 22 March 1975 LP (Radio Loop Loop)
Featuring two tracks from the previous year’s Autobahn including an epic sidelong rendition of the title cut this 1975 live set from Koeln is one of the finest of the legendary German group’s career. Rounded out by “Ruckzuck”, the first track from the very first Kraftwerk record from 1970, this beautiful set of brilliant motorik jams is crucial.
Luka Kuplowsky – Stardust LP (Mama Bird)
Released last week on CD – now available on vinyl. With his wonderful album Stardust, Luka Kuplowsky makes a refreshing argument for the relevance of acoustic music as a place to hold thought; an open space to place impeccably chosen words, ideas, and images. A young songwriter with a calm, conversational delivery and an effortless, un-showy grasp of poetry; Kuplowsky humbly picks up the same threads of inquiry that did Cohen, asking the big questions about love, meaning, and consciousness.
Landshapes – Contact LP+MP3 (Bella Union)
Released last week on CD – now available on vinyl. Contact came together after extensive touring, where the band’s shape-shifting hybrids of alt-folk, psychedelia and math-rock brimmed with brooding beauty. The salient themes of our times – loneliness, isolation, alienation, the need for connection and community – resonate with a haunting, predictive and vital power. Contact digs deep into the past, looks ahead to the future and burns with vivid life in the present. The mind-expanding soundscapes, beguiling melodies and resonating emotions from this London four-piece exude a tremendous in-the-moment vibrancy.
The Last – Look Again CD (House Arrest)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Sometimes great bands have a rough go of it. Consider The Last, the influential Los Angeles band who rose to the top of the city’s music scene – with bands like The Go-Go’s opening for them – and released their critically acclaimed album L.A. Explosion! in 1979 on Bomp Records. But rather than build on that momentum, which included shows with X and Black Flag, The Last – Joe Nolte (guitar, vocals), Vitus Mataré (keyboards, flute, vocals), Joe’s two brothers, Mike Nolte (harmony vocals) and David Nolte (bass) and John Frank (drums) – recorded a follow-up album that was doomed and shelved by the band. Now, the never-before-released, thought-to-be-lost-to-history album, is finally available 40 years after it was originally recorded.
Leila – Like Weather [Reissue/1998] LP+7” (Modern Love)
Like Weather echoes the world-building energy of Prince’s Sign O The Times (1987) – every track is a self-contained universe all its own, there are no rules or conventions – it’s full of hooks, but also insular as f**k, the production is all over the place and it still sounds like nothing else (although if you’re into the Mica Levi-produced Tirzah album (2018), know that this here is the aesthetic, spiritual blueprint). It feels analog, then digital – it’s R&B, but also baroque music box, drone pop, experimental, electronic, junglist – attempting to define it is like trying to cup mercury in the palm of your hands; it’ll just find something else to slide into.
Like Moths To Flames – No Eternity In Gold LP (UNFD)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Displaying their trademark foundations of incisive technical dexterity and uncompromising heaviness – all underpinned with earworm melodies, Like Moths To Flames fifth studio album is the result of challenged perspectives, fully realized ideals, and lessons learned. [Limited orange colored pressing also available.]
A Loss For Words – Presents Motown Classics [Reissue/2010] LP (Pure Noise)
Boston pop-punk legends A Loss For Words release their popular Motown Classics album on vinyl, five years after they hung up their instruments for good.
Makin’ Time – Rhythm And Soul [Reissue/1985] LP (Acid Jazz)
Largely remembered today at the first group of future Charlatans main man Martin Blunt, Makin’ Time emerged as a breath of fresh air from the 1980s mod scene. Younger than the revival bands that had gone before them, instead of watered-down punk their music was a glorious mix of power pop and 1960s pop and soul.
Mac Miller – Swimming In Circles 4xLP (WB)
Swimming In Circles collects Miller’s two final studio albums, which were conceived by the late artist as companion albums, into one deluxe presentation.
Sam Morrow – Gettin’ By On Getting’ Down LP (Forty Below)
A modern album that revisits – and reshapes – the primordial sounds of hip-shaking rock & roll.
Melanie Martinez – After School 12” (Atlantic)
Limited blue colored vinyl pressing. Multi-platinum pop phenomenon Melanie Martinez releases her After School EP, a supplement to the internationally acclaimed album and accompanying full-length film K-12 released in 2019. After School features seven brand new songs, including The Bakery, produced by Blake Slatkin and accompanied by an equally engaging companion video directed and designed by Melanie herself.
Mastodon – Medium Rarities 2xLP (WB)
Standard black vinyl edition. Medium Rarities is the first rarities collection from Mastodon covering their entire career. The compilation features one brand new song – “Fallen Torches”. It also includes a bevy of classic covers, soundtrack contributions, instrumentals, B-sides, and live recordings on one complete package for the very first time. Among an eclectic array of covers, the musicians tackle “A Commotion” by Feist, “A Spoonful Weighs A Ton” by The Flaming Lips, “Atlanta” by Butthole Surfers, and “Orion” by Metallica. It also features soundtrack cuts such as “White Walker” (from the Game Of Thrones inspired mix tape) and the soundtrack song “Cut You Up With A Linoleum Knife” (Aqua Teen Hunger Force). Meanwhile, they get under the hood with instrumental versions of “Asleep In The Deep”, “Toe To Toes”, “Jaguar God”, and “Halloween”.
Tim McGraw – McGraw Machine Hits: 2013-2019 2xLP (Big Machine)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. A compilation of McGraw’s biggest and greatest hits from recent years.
Sinéad O’Connor – Trouble Of The World 7” (Heavenly)
Sinéad O’Connor marks her long-awaited return with a stunning interpretation of “Trouble Of The World”, a traditional song made famous by exalted gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. Sympathetic to its origins, her heartfelt, evocative tones propel this impassioned rendition into the present.
Of Feather And Bone – Sulfuric Disintegration LP (Profound Lore)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New album from the Colorado power trio. While not only delivering a more dynamic and complex musical vision that balances the genres of pure dark death metal, blistering grind, and unrelenting bestial metal, Sulfuric Disintegration sees Of Feather And Bone become the full-on sonic killing machine that one was given a mere glimpse of with their past works.
Daniel O’Sullivan – Electric Maya: Dream Flotsam And Astral Hinterlands LP (VHF)
First in a series of three records of library music miniatures from composer and multi- instrumentalist Daniel O’Sullivan (Æthenor, Ulver, This is Not This Heat, etc.).
Phish – Fuego [Reissue/2014] 2xLP (Jemp)
Double pink salmon and orange colored vinyl pressing of the jam rock band’s twelfth studio album.
The Pineapple Thief – The Soord Sessions Volume 4 LP (Kscope)
Over the last half-decade, The Pineapple Thief, led by musical polymath Bruce Soord and bolstered by the involvement of master drummer Gavin Harrison, has rapidly ascended to the upper echelons of Europe’s alternative-rock scene.
Pluralone – I Don’t Feel Well LP (ORG Music)
Amidst the backdrop of a global pandemic, political unrest, and wildfiresraging across the western United States, Josh Klinghoffer hunkered down and found the inspiration to complete the sophomore album for his latest project, Pluralone. The release, aptly titled I Don’t Feel Well, comes on the heels of Pluralone’s critically acclaimed debut album, To Be One With You. In some ways, I Don’t Feel Well seems like a natural progression of the Pluralone project, just as dynamic and fluid in its arrangements, but more focused in its execution.
Prep – Prep LP (Bright Antenna)
Prep is an Indie City Pop band with “a dreamy, coastal vibe” (Paper). [Limited translucent pink colored vinyl pressing also available.]
Pumice – Table LP (Soft Abuse)
Pumice now the duo of Stefan Neville and Jade Farley-stretch time further out, leaning heavily on drones and moans in making their modern day Aotearoa folk-rock masterpiece.
Richard Rose – Radiation Breeze LP (In The Red)
Los Angeles based quintet Richard Rose may or may not feature prominent players from bands including but not limited to Ex-Cult, GØGGS, OBN III’s, Snooty Garbagemen, Bad Sports,
Hooveriii and Stress Group… but as much as said bands were amongst the best and brightest on offer in Memphis, Houston and Austin, this new amalgamation is a bolder proposition.
Santana – Abraxas [Reissue/1970] LP (Sony Legacy)
Limited HQ Sony Legacy 180gm vinyl pressing in gatefold jacket with poster of the second studio album by the Latin rock band led by guitar legend Carlos Santa.
Shakey – Shakey 12” (Palto Flats)
Shakey encompasses the duo’s love of digi-dub, jungle, musique concrete, and the fusing of ambient textures with abstracted rhythms.
Shores Of Null – Beyond The Shores (On Death And Dying) LP (Spikerot)
Third album by the Italian gloom kings. [Limited colored vinyl pressings are also available.]
State Champs – The Finer Things [Reissue/2013] LP (Pure Noise)
State Champs – Around The World And Back [Reissue/2015] LP (Pure Noise)
Albany, New York-based pop-punk band State Champs started out back in 2010, basing their quick-paced and emotive sound on the influence of masters of the genre like Fall Out Boy, the Story So Far, and New Found Glory.
Straight Shooter – My Time – Your Time [Reissue/1980] LP (Sky)
Limited 180gm vinyl pressing of the 1980 release from the German hard rock band.
STRFKR – Ambient 1 LP+MP3 (Ghostly Int’l)
Limited cream-colored vinyl pressing. STRFKR’s sound has morphed over the years through variations of hyper catchy, danceable pop, but on Ambient 1 – the band’s first fully instrumental album – the band has achieved something very different. For a little shy of an hour, Ambient 1 drifts through softly glowing electronic instrumentals that extract the synth core from the group’s well established synth pop sound.
Style Council – Long Hot Summers: The Story Of The Style Council 3xLP+MP3 (Polydor)
The Style Council’s long-awaited and eagerly anticipated definitive career anthology Long Hot Summers: The Story Of The Style Council was co-compiled by Paul Weller and teams with all of the band’s greatest hits.
Swing Kids – Anthology LP (Three-One-G)
Swing Kids formed in the mid- ‘90s out of a mix of obscure punk, hardcore, and geography-specific social politics.
Mikael Tariverdiev – Visions In Black & White LP (Earth Recordings)
A collection of rare jazz and improvised themes by one of the greatest Russian film composers Mikael Tariverdiev (1931-1996).
Testament – Titans Of Creation 2xLP (Nuclear Blast)
Orange colored vinyl pressing. Twelve tracks of unstoppable energy from these originators of Bay Area thrash.
Various Artists [Chase & Status] – Chase & Status RTRN II Fabric 2xLP+MP3 (Fabric)
Comprising of over 40 tracks, Chase & Status have curated over an hour of uncompromising quality raw, melodic and energetic jungle and drum & bass. Selections from Remarc, DJ Rap, Shy FX, Bou, Wax Doctor, Watch The Ride and more are layered with forthcoming original material of their own.
Voivod – Lost Machine: Live 2xLP (Century Media)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Canada’s progressive sci-fi metal innovators return with a new live release.
Yukon Blonde – Vindicator LP (Dine Alone)
Limited white colored vinyl pressing. Vindicator is the first Yukon Blonde album written, recorded, and produced entirely by the band. It took shape in their jam space in East Vancouver, a cabin on Galiano Island, in a closet at Younger’s home, and in Innes’ kitchen. But this DIY ethos has always been the backbone of Yukon Blonde who are curious artists with a passion for honing their craft. The in-house approach to Vindicator allowed Yukon Blonde to stretch themselves creatively and experiment with sounds and styles in ways they haven’t before.
Zilched – Doompop LP (Young Heavy Souls)
The title track from Zilched’s new album Doompop is a punchy song that juxtaposes a deceptively gentile vocal melody with wall-of-sound grunge guitars and a driving backbeat. The four-minute tune boasts a more complete production style than past releases, but the real showcase is the craftsmanship with which Zilched constructs her songs and continues to refine her musical style.
Cassette:
Paul McCartney – Paul McCartney III (Capitol)
‘Smoky tint’ cassette edition. 50 years following the release of his self-titled first solo album McCartney, featuring Paul McCartney playing every instrument and writing and recording every song, Macca delivers McCartney III. Paul hadn’t planned to release an album in 2020, but in the isolation of “Rockdown,” he soon found himself fleshing out some existing musical sketches and creating even more new ones. Before long an eclectic collection of spontaneous songs would become McCartney III: a stripped back, self-produced and, quite literally, solo work marking the opening of a new decade, in the tradition of 1970’s McCartney and 1980’s McCartney II. Recorded earlier in 2020 in Sussex, McCartney III is mostly built from live takes of Paul on vocals and guitar or piano, overdubbing his bass playing, drumming, etc. atop that foundation. McCartney III spans a vast and intimate range of modes and moods, from soul searching to wistful, from playful to raucous and all points between.
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