CDs + Vinyl:
Aerosol – Leave CD/LP (N5md)
Third album from Rasmus Rasmussen’s ethereal electronic project. Cosmic sounds and psychedelic effects mingle with cascading guitars and kraut-infused beats on a collection of tracks that sends obvious nods to the German synth pioneers of the ‘70s.
Anberlin – Never Take Friendship Personal: Live New York City CD (Tooth & Nail)
Recorded live at The Gramercy Theatre, the album helps celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the original release of Never Take Friendship Personal.
And So I Watch From Afar – Heirs CD/LP+MP3 (Sargent House)
New album from the Irish progressive-punks. “Heirs is the splatterings of pigment in a Jackson Pollock painting. It’s the incomprehensible equations of a mad scientist. And it’s delivered with a playful sophistication that boggles the mind and delights the senses.” – GiggingNI
Ólöf Arnalds – Palme CD/LP (One Little Indian)
The fourth long-player from the stunningly talented classically trained singer and multi-instrumentalist is a move beyond the sound she’s become known for, with synthetic sounds carefully augmenting her songs, thanks in part to múm founder Gunnar Örn Tynes and long term collaborator Skúli Sverrisson (Laurie Anderson, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Blonde Redhead).
Jeff Beck – Live + CD (Rhino)
New live release spanning the legendary guitarist’s vast and varied career along with two new studio tracks. The 14 live performances on Jeff Beck Live+ were recorded at multiple venues in 2014 and feature Beck backed by his band: vocalist Jimmy Hall, bassist Rhonda Smith, drummer Jonathan Joseph and guitarist Nicolas Meier.
Best Coast – California Nights CD/LP (Harvest)
A brighter, more-sparkly, more sophisticated, more psychedelic Best Coast album across the board, embodying the rich lightness and stinging darkness of a California state of mind. “Bethany and Bobb’s third record is like a needy, narcissistic L.A. teen in an ironic Avril Lavigne T-shirt who loiters round the house, nagging and nudging you until you’ve no option but to be endeared by its gawkish vulnerability. It begins with the heavily medicated ‘Feeling OK,’ falls hook, line and sinker on the Hole-homage ‘Heaven Sent,’ asks ‘Why don’t you like me?’ during ‘Jealousy,’ before addressing more pertinent questions, ‘What is life? What is love? What’s the meaning of it all?’ on ‘So Unaware.’” – The Guardian
Frank Black And The Catholics – The Complete Recordings 7xCD (Cooking Vinyl)
A seven-CD collection of remastered versions of the band’s six studio albums, plus a bonus disc of demos from the sessions for Black Letter Days. The albums included are 1998’s self-titled, 1999’s Pistolero, 2001’s Dog In The Sand, 2002’s Black Letter Days and Devil’s Workshop, and 2003’s Show Me Your Tears.
The Bloodline – We Are One CD (Another Recording Co.)
The Bloodline cleverly fuse elements of rock, hard rock and metal lined with infectious hooks and soaring vocal melodies.
Chaos Delivery Machine – Burn Motherf**ker Burn CD/LP (Hardline Entertainment)
The members of Chaos Delivery Machine have not let advancing years dilute their anger – or their love of fast punk rock. More power to them, they have more endurance than I ever will. Perhaps they just don’t have any kids to tire them out. Their latest album, Burn Motherf**ker Burn, is their second after Manifesto. It has taken eight ‘exhausting and life-threatening’ years to produce. The trio has a strong Pennywise connection. Bassist Fletcher Dragge was a founding guitarist of the legendary Californian outfit, while CDM’s drummer Justin Thirsk’s brother Jason played bass for Pennywise before his death in 1996. Justin Thirsk and CDM’s guitarist Jason Page were once of 98 Mute, another of the ‘90s punk bands which took over the world from the west coast of the USA.
Ciara – Jackie CD (Epic)
New album from the R&B superstar. Jackie features production by The Underdogs, Da Don, Dr. Luke, and others. Includes “That’s How I’m Feelin’” featuring Pitbull and Missy Elliot. Available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe adds five bonus tracks.
Coliseum – Anxiety’s Kiss CD/LP (Deathwish Inc.)
Anxiety’s Kiss is the new album from Coliseum, recorded at The Magpie Cage by producer/engineer J.Robbins (Jawbox, Burning Airlines). It is a hook-laden maturation of the Coliseum sound. Nods to their early d-beat leanings are there, but it is their willingness to embrace post-punk melody and explore the space between notes that make the album so alluring. Confidently growing within the punk world, without ever leaving it behind.
Mikal Cronin – MCIII CD/LP+MP3 (Merge)
Marked by the lush arrangements, stunning melodies, and deeply personal lyrical work for which Cronin is now known, MCIII is a deliberate attempt to simply “go big.” As he did on his self-titled 2011 debut and 2013’s MCII, Cronin arranged and played nearly all of the record himself, including the tzouras, a traditional Greek string instrument he heard and subsequently bought while on tour in Athens. There’s French horn, saxophone, and trumpet. There are mood-altering crescendos and heartbreaking turns-of-phrase, guitars both gorgeous and pugnacious. No longer satisfied with the sound of “just one string player,” Cronin arranged parts for a full string quartet instead.
Dead Men Walking – Easy Piracy CD (Slimstyle)
The core line-up of Dead Men Walking features Captain Sensible of The Damned, Slim Jim Phantom of The Stray Cats, Mike Peters of The Alarm, and Chris Cheney from The Living End. They are often joined by special guests including SNL alumni/comedian Fred Armisen, Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses, and many more.
Death & Vanilla – Where The Wild Things Are CD/LP (Fire)
Death & Vanilla’s sound is woozy, evocative and blatantly in thrall to the kaleidoscopic sounds of Broadcast, The BBC Radiophonic Workshop, Mazzy Star and ‘60s sci-fi soundtracks. It’s beautifully listenable; A veritable tapestry of warm sounds to soothe and refresh. Available on CD and on orange or blue vinyl.
Delta Moon – Low Down CD (Landslide)
Led by the two founders, singer/guitarist Tom Gray and the slide guitar master Mark Johnson, they present on Low Down nine original compositions as well as covers of Bob Dylan, Tom Waits and Skip James.
Jackie DeShannon – All The Love: The Lost Atlantic Recordings CD (Real Gone Music)
This collection brings together DeShannon’s entire 1973 Atlantic Records material in one place for the first time, featuring seven previously unreleased tracks along with her rendition of “Drift Away” that was intended for a single before the Dobie Gray cover version. Liner notes by Joe Marchese feature quotes from Jackie, who is thrilled to have these songs finally heard together in full, proper context after forty years.
Django Django – Born Under Saturn CD/LP (Ribbon Music)
Born Under Saturn expands on the slippery, indefinable nature of the Scottish indie pop outfit’s self-titled debut, applying all of its giddy art-rock imagination only across a much larger canvas. Throughout, Django Django continues to find magic in the unexplored spaces between musical genres. Beach Boys harmonies and Link Wray riffs crisscross with house music pianos, while classical keyboard flourishes meld with Jamaican and African rhythms.
Downtown Boys – Full Communism CD/LP (Don Giovonni)
Downtown Boys is a bilingual political sax punk party from Providence, RI. Their first LP, Full Communism, is full of songs about smashing the prison-industrial complex, racism, queerphobia, capitalism, fascism, boredom, and all things people tell us that try to close out minds, eyes, and heart. The record comes directly pout of our current critical moment in the struggle for justice being fought in the US and throughout the world.
Drudkh – Furrow Cut Short CD/2xLP (Season Of Mist)
The prolific and enigmatic Ukranian black metal collective return with the new album. A Furrow Cut Short features the grandeur of seven huge, sweeping songs that draw inspiration from the genre’s true roots. Eschewing speed and brutally for ambiance and mood, each piece is a journey downward giving pause only for a fell voice from the wilderness.
eMC – The Tonite Show CD (Penalty Ent. LLC)
Formed in 2007, eMC is comprised of three spectacular lyricists: the Milwaukee born phenom Stricklin, the widely respected and Lyricist Lounge emcee Wordsworth and the legendary Brooklyn-bred, former Juice Crew member Masta Ace.
Brandon Estelle – Star LP CD (Pando Records, Inc.)
Brandon Estelle is a Grammy-nominated artist and church worship leader from Ohio. He grew up in Kansas City in a very musical family with his grandfather, father and brother all performing in well-known bands. Brandon was member of the band Superchick up until their hiatus, when he decided to pursue his solo career. He plays drums, piano, and all stringed instruments.
Forgotten Tomb – Hurt Yourself And The Ones You Love CD (Agonia)
Organic, melancholic and malignant doom metal.
Jacco Gardner – Hypnophobia CD/LP+MP3 (Polyvinyl)
The Baroque pop prince/Dutch multi-instrumentalist casts a majestic and vibrant psychedelic spell akin to the sonic boom of maverick contemporaries John Maus and Tame Impala. His is a sound that holds fast next to fellow paisley performers Syd Barrett & Curt Boettcher, with the airy dynamics of Stereolab or Simon & Garfunkel.
Giant Sand – Heartbreak Pass CD/LP+MP3 (New West)
Heartbreak Pass marks the seminal alt-country/rock band’s 30th anniversary. Individually, each track on the record looms large on its own but, when heard as one complete offering, you know that you are listening to something very, very special. The Arizona desert has been a dominating theme and source of inspiration for frontman Howe Gelb. The group can also be looked at as Howe’s one-man-band with many guests and collaborators. Heartbreak Pass features Steve Shelly (Sonic Youth), Grant-Lee Phillips and Ilse DeLange (Common Linnets). (Vinyl edition features MP3 coupon that unlocks two additional tracks.)
A Grave With No Name – Feathers Wet, Under The Moon CD/LP (Lefse)
A Grave With No Name is the recording project of Alexander Shields. His latest LP Feathers Wet, Under The Moon, is Shields’ first foray into a recording studio, eschewing the bedroom recordings of his previous releases, and sees him return to a studio, this time trading the foggy confines of London for the rolling hills of Nashville, Tennessee. Features Contributions from William Tyler, Tony Crow (Lambchop) and Daniel Blumberg (Hebronix, Yuck).
Trevor Hall – Unpack Your Memories CDEP (Vanguard)
This five-song EP is a collection of intimate songs that have been held in Trevor’s personal “vault” for a long time now – some, for years.
Hiatus Kaiyote – Choose Your Weapon CD (Masterworks)
Second full length album by the Melbourne based Grammy Award nominated band. Stereogum singled them out as a ‘Band To Watch’ and Giles Peterson (BBC Worldwide) named them ‘Breakthrough Artist Of 2013.’ Legendary producer/songwriter Salaam Remi handpicked Hiatus Kaiyote as the first signing for his Flying Buddha label. Questlove, Erykah Badu, Pharrell and Prince have gone out of their way to plug the band. Vinyl version due May 18.
Hollis Brown – 3 Shots CD (Inkind Music)
Hollis Brown has toured in the last year with The Zombies, The Heartless Bastards, The Black Crowes’ guitarist Rich Robinson, and Jesse Malin. 3 Shots features a duet with acclaimed alt- country songstress Nikki Lane, and a unique collaboration with the fabled rock & roll pioneer Bo Diddley, with Hollis Brown building a new composition featuring Bo’s unmistakable guitar work.
Hooded Menace – Gloom Immemorial CD (Metalhit.com)
New album of extreme doom with an appropriate blend of depressive-sludge in the mix.
Hop Along – Painted Shut CD/LP+MP3 (Saddle Creek)
Hop Along has had multiple lives. First conceptualized as a freak-folk solo act by Frances Quinlan, it progressed towards a fuller, angular pop sound with the addition of Mark Quinlan on drums, Tyler Long on bass and Joe Reinhart (Algernon Cadwallader, Dogs On Acid) on guitar. Emerging as one of music’s most unique songwriters, the captivating vignettes Frances has weaved contain vivid stories of desperation and weary awakening. Her powerful voice is a spellbinding entity all it’s own, celebratory and raw, and one that can’t be shaken away.
House Of Atreus – The Spear And The Ichor That Follows CD (Dark Descent)
This new death metal band mixes classic underground styles with memorable arrangements.
Van Hunt – The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets CD/LP (Godless Hotspot/Thirty Tigers)
Van Hunt, a Dayton, Ohio-born musician, made his way to Atlanta where he drew acclaim for his production efforts and crafty songwriting, featured on recordings by such diverse artists as Dionne Farris, Rahsaan Patterson, and Cree Summer as well as the platinum-selling soundtrack, Love Jones. His own self-titled debut album arrived in 2004, instantly establishing Hunt as a distinctive and original talent with its idiosyncratic melding of R&B, neo-soul, funk, pop, and rock & roll. Full of African rhythms, blues and funk, The Fun Rises, The Fun Sets is full of contemporary components often found in the music of St. Vincent, James Blake, Dev Hynes and FKA Twigs. “It is the history of Black-American music filtered through modern technology,” explains Hunt.
Infernal War – Axiom CD (Agonia)
Grim and aggressive blackened-death metal.
Ivan & Alyosha – It’s All Just Pretend CD/LP (Dualtone Music)
These 11 new songs from the Seattle five-piece are overflowing with infectious melodies, thoughtful lyrics, rich vocal harmonies and timeless pop sensibilities.
Boney James – Futuresoul CD (Concord)
New release from the four-time Grammy nominee and best-selling saxman. Fusing his love for vintage soul music with his mastery of modern production, Boney has created another genre-bending work following on the heels of his 2014 Grammy nominated album The Beat. Guests include Stokley of Mint Condition on vocals and Marquis Hill on trumpet.
Jethro Tull – Minstrel In The Gallery [Reissue/1975] 2xCD/2xCD+2xDVD/LP (Rhino)
Digitally remastered and remixed edition of the prog band’s 1975 album. The new stereo mix of the album has been expanded with a B-side, several studio outtakes, as well as alternate session material done for a BBC broadcast. The Deluxe four-disc (2xCD+2xDVD) edition adds a flat transfer of the original album and a flat transfer of the quad mix on DVD One; and 5.1 and stereo mixes of live tracks plus an eight-minute film of the band performing Minstrel In The Gallery in Paris from July 1975 and more on DVD Two.
Kamelot – Haven CD/2xCD/2xLP+MP3 (Napalm)
Haven sees symphonic metal masters Kamelot striving for new heights with their epic and highly emotional trademark sound: as if this album was meant to be a soundtrack for an unforgettable and monumental silver screen experience, it boasts dark melancholy, aggressive metal and soul-soothing melodies. Available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe adds a bonus 15-track disc of alternate versions.
Andy Kim – It’s Decided CD (Arts & Crafts)
Co-written and produced by Broken Social Scene’s Kevin Drew, Ohad Benchetrit (Do Make Say Think), and Dave Hamelin (The Stills), It’s Decided is the crystallization of a music community around a living, thriving legend. Led by Andy Kim’s wisdom, through his stunningly youthful vocals, the album’s ten songs are accented by contributions by luminaries Ron Sexsmith, Jeff Barry, John McIntyre (Tortoise), Kevin Hearn (Barenaked Ladies), and Derek Downham.
Kings Destroy – Kings Destroy CD/LP (War Crime)
With their third album in four years, Kings Destroy has their hardcore-born stamp on noise rock and doom. After sharing stages with Pentagram, Winter, Saint Vitus, Church of Misery, Pallbearer, Orange Golblin and a host of others, the Brooklyn five-piece stand tall with this, their defining statement. “… Fueled by Sabbath’s grooves, Sleep’s foggy haze, and Yob’s oppressive thunder.” — Village Voice
Landshapes – Heyoon CD/LP (Bella Union)
Lost practices, hidden worlds, secret topics – Landshapes shift around the dark, magical borders of alternative culture, soaking up poetry and peccadillos, high art and low desires. On their second album Heyoon, the band explores everything from a 17th Century tale about migratory space geese; tragic Dutch artist Bas Jan Ader who died on a failed Atlantic crossing, the desire to inhabit another’s psyche and nights out at drag bars. Previously Lulu And The Lampshades, 2012 saw them accrue a wealth of guitar pedals, a fascination for mind-expanding noise and, following a mis-billing in Paris, a new name: Landshapes.
Annie Lennox – An Evening Of Nostalgia With Annie Lennox CD+DVD/CD+Blu-ray (Blue Note)
An Evening With Annie Lennox captures one the acclaimed artists in her only full concert performance of songs from her Grammy-nominated Nostalgia album. Fronting a 19-piece band including string and horn sections Lennox demonstrates her distinctive vocal and performance talents on an array of classic American standards and a few of her Eurythmics hits and solo tracks. Also available on stand-alone DVD and Blu-ray.
Nils Lofgren – Nils Lofgren [Reissue/1975] CD (Real Gone Music)
This 1975 release spawned a couple of instant classics in “Back It Up” and the Keith Richards homage “Keith Don’t Go (Ode To The Glimmer Twin),” plus an exceptional cover of Carole King’s “Goin’ Back” among its many high points.
Luciferian Light Orchestra – Luciferian Light Orchestra CD (Adulruna)
Luciferian Light Orchestra is a band wrapped in a vintage spirit. The band is performing songs that Christofer Johnsson has written over the years but he thought they were too retro sounding for Therion. Christofer always had a big passion for the ’70s music. Luciferian Light Orchestra sounds like a ’70s version of Therion, mainly inspired by the ’70s occult vibes and themes.
Shelby Lynne – I Can’t Imagine CD/LP (Rounder)
Shelby Lynne’s 13th album starts, as always, with that voice: two parts Alabama sunshine, one part Memphis rainstorm. Comprising ten new songs, I Can’t Imagine is powered by Lynne’s lustrous, virtuosic vocal performance, indelible, sparkling songwriting, and the sympathetic, versatile playing of a top-flight band, led by guitarist Ben Peeler. The songs themselves reflect a panoply of Lynne’s influences from Southern soul, Crescent City R&B, and California country & western to the ardent social consciousness of precursors like Woody Guthrie and even the roots ‘n’ blues vocalizing of Billie Holiday all brought into clear focus by Lynne’s keen, sophisticated pop sensibility.
Lyrics Born – Real People CD (Mobile Home)
Funk has always been a part of what Lyrics Born does — his unique vocal swagger dishes out melody and rhyme with equal aplomb. For Real People, he turned the production over entirely (also a first) to his NOLA colleagues, giving them space to do what they do best, and him the freedom to write. Mercurio and Ellman wrangled a host of talent to execute the vision: Trombone Shorty, Ivan Neville, the Preservation Jazz Hall Band, Corey Glover (Living Colour), Corey Henry (Rebirth Brass Band), David Shaw (The Revivalists), and Billy Martin. Amidst all that quirk, soul, and raw talent, LB was reborn. Vinyl version due June 23.
Mandolin Orange – Such Jubilee CD/LP (Yep Roc)
“Mandolin Orange’s loyalties may seem to be at odds—that is, home versus the road. But in the middle of this struggle sits the duo’s unwavering grace. With Such Jubilee, Mandolin Orange seems not to have veered from their elegant folk, and that’s great news, as it seems to get only better and better.” – Indy Week (Raleigh Durham)
Marshmallow Coast – Vangelis Rides Again CD/LP (Happy Happy Birthday To Me)
The ninth album from the Elephant Six alumni is a brittle prog-pop wasteland that leaves the listener weeping and numb.
Mac McCaughan – Non-Believers CD/LP+MP3 (Merge)
Superchunk frontman Mac McCaughan releases his first solo album under his own name. McCaughan wanted to use the album to explore his attraction to that early-‘80s era of music when punk evolved into something more introspective, focusing on themes of isolation and eventually turning into post-punk and new wave. As he puts it, he was thinking about a time when bands were “using keyboards and drum machines to relate through their music a disaffection or alienation” from society, school, whatever. The record is about a fascination with art that could only be made by someone far from where you are, but who maybe shares the frustrations and awkwardness of youth. It’s about “the irony that comes with being 16 and having a car but not knowing where to go in it, or having a keyboard or a guitar and not knowing how to play it.”
METZ – II CD/LP+MP3 (Sub Pop)
Written and recorded in 2014, after two years of constant touring behind their self-titled debut, II is METZ at their most true to form—as pure an expression of what they do as can currently be committed to tape The guitars are titanic, the drums ill-tempered, the vocals chilling, and the volume worrisome. From the exhilarating grind of “Spit You Out” to the blunt-force thrills of “Landfill,” herein reside ten songs as uncompromising in their ferocity and abrasiveness as any collection this record label has had the pleasure of releasing to date. While the band’s debut was often “clean and clinical,” II is what Edkins describes as a “much heavier, darker, and sloppier” affair, with many of its roughest edges and ugliest tones kept intact.
Elliot Moss – Highspeeds CD/LP (Grand Jury Music)
Elliot Moss is a 21-year-old multi-instrumentalist songwriter, producer, and visual artist from New York who has drawn comparisons to Bon Iver, Chet Faker, Washed Out and James Blake with his soulful vocals, strong songwriting and embrace of electronic, jazz and ambient sounds.
Motor Sister – Ride CD/2xLP (Metal Blade)
“Despite the fact that Anthrax has just completed a three-year-long 30th anniversary celebration complete with a whole slew of milestones, there was something else that Scott Ian has wished for and that wish was granted for the guitarist’s 50th birthday. Ian wanted a reunion of sorts of one of his favorite bands — Mother Superior — and he wanted not just to see it but to be a part of it as well. Going by the name of Motor Sister (in honor of the Mother Superior song ‘Little Motor Sister’) this new found band included Mother Superior front-man Jim Wilson, Joey Vera of Fates Warning and Armored Saint, John Tempesta of White Zombie and The Cult, and wrapped things up with Scott Ian and Pearl Aday as well.” – AXS
Mumford & Sons – Wilder Mind CD/LP (Glassnote)
“Disillusioned audience members booed Bob Dylan in 1965 for swapping his acoustic guitar for an electric one. It is hard to imagine fans of Mumford & Sons doing the same 50 years on. The lines between folk and rock have long since blurred and the English quartet is the most recent example of a band effectively occupying some of the fertile space in-between. They may have risen to fame in 2009 playing banjos, yet their surging, sing-along anthems always had more in common with the epic rock of Coldplay than bluegrass. Nevertheless, the decision to go electric for their third album effectively sacrifices what might be considered their USP, putting them in a much more crowded field. There may be nothing particularly original here, but the gritty ambience of electric instrumentation suits Mumford & Sons’ way with melody, emotion and dynamics. Simply put, the Mumfords rock” – The Telegraph. Available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe adds four bonus live tracks.
My Body – Six Wives CD (Bug Hunt)
My Body cooks up a unique blend of R&B, pop and skittering electronics for a collaged sound. Vinyl version due May 26.
My Morning Jacket – The Waterfall CD/2xLP (ATO/Capitol)
My Morning Jacket recorded The Waterfall in Northern California’s Stinson Beach, and gladly took the inspiration the location offered to craft this sparkling new album. “For me, every record has the spirit of where we made it,” James explains in a statement. “Stinson Beach was so psychedelic and focused. It was almost like we lived on our own little moon out there. It feels like you’re up in the sky.” The 10-track album sounds like history and decades colliding, like a record made by fervent music fans in search of that tingle up the spine. Inveterate music geeks will hear echoes of vintage rock and pop as MMJ continues to honor its influences without aping any of them; The Waterfall sounds like nothing else but also warmly familiar. CD is available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe adds four bonus tracks. (Vinyl version also includes the four bonus tracks.)
Nosaj Thing – Fated CD/LP+MP3 (Innovative Leisure)
Fated has most in common with records like Burial’s Untrue, or J Dilla’s Donuts: requiems that canvass the shadowy hinterlands between life and death, darkness and light, loneliness and love.
Oddisee – The Good Fight CD/LP (Mello Music)
Imbued with love, honesty, and selflessness. The Good Fight is virtuosic in its musicality, direct in its language, and infinitely relatable. In a landscape overrun with abstract indulgence and shallow trend-chasers, the Prince George’s County, Maryland artist has created a record that reminds you that it’s music before its hip-hop.
Ömheten – Sjalv CD (Unexploded)
Ömheten consists of well-known musicians from the Swedish extreme metal scene who prefer to be anonymous.
The Orange Peels – Begin The Begone CD/LP (Minty Fresh)
“What is so excellent about The Orange Peels new album Begin The Begone is the superior songwriting. It really is a fantastic album, featuring brilliantly performed, diverse and intricate compositions candy-coated in a likable pop-rock wrapper. But these are no empty calories! There is a vast depth to the music here that had us listening to this album for weeks before we could even begin to find words for it. There’s just so much there – it’s really quite amazing.” – Rust Magazine
Other Lives – Rituals CD/LP (TBD)
13 years since they first began playing together in their native Oklahoma, Other Lives, which includes Josh Onstott and Jonathon Mooney, remain focused on the search for audible clarity: their next expression, their next melody, their next rhythm. Rituals, the band’s third and latest full-length album is a pure encapsulation of the trio’s relentless drive for precision. “It’s more dimensional, it’s more 3-D, if you will,” Tabish explains. “We wanted a cleaner, brighter record with more movement and more color. We’re haphazardly trying to write classical music. For the first times in our lives we were moving off on our own away from our families and kind of coming into our own. I wanted the songs to reflect that new spirit.”
Palma Violets – Danger In The Club CD/LP+MP3 (Rough Trade)
While Danger In The Club, the follow-up to Palma Violets’ barnstorming debut 180, certainly trades on the primal and joyous hook-laden rock of their debut, their sophomore LP finds the band with a new sonic looseness, revealing far more expansive influences than the still-quite-young quartet had on their debut.
The Phantom Band – Fears Trending CD/LP (Chemikal Underground)
If you’ve followed The Phantom Band throughout their career to-date then you’ll know two things of the Glaswegian six-piece: feast often follows famine, and you should never accept them merely at face value. Just as two wildly singular, diverse albums in Checkmate Savage and The Wants sprung up one after another between 2009 and 2010, before a period of quiet (solo projects notwithstanding), so the group’s more direct third record, Strange Friend, – more art-rock than rock-art – comes followed by seven tracks cut largely from the same recording sessions at Chem19, in the form of Fears Trending.
Pompeya – Real CD (No Shame)
New release from the Moscow band that creates unabashed pop and new wave music. Their first two releases earned the band significant popularity in their home country, introducing Moscow’s youth to electronic indie culture.
Iggy Pop – Shot Myself Up CD (Easy Action)
A mixture of of Stooges numbers and tracks from The Idiot plus an as then unreleased track called “Turn Blue” which would eventually end up on the next album Lust For Life.
The Proclaimers – Let’s Here It For The Dogs CD/LP (Compass)
Best known for the hit singles “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles),” “Sunshine On Leith,” “I’m On My Way,” and “Letter From America,” the identical Scottish twins known as The Proclaimers release their 10th studio album.
Pyrexia – Sermon Of Mockery [Reissue/1993] CD/LP (Century Media)
Pyrexia is a brutal death metal (early), death/groove metal (later) band founded in New York in 1990. Later in 2001, Trevor Peres of Obituary joined the band and they temporarily changed their name to Catastrophic. They released one album and Chris Basile (the only original member left) decided to change the band’s name back to Pyrexia.
Michael Rault – Living In Daylight CD/LP (Burger)
An era-defying mischievousness defines his synthesis of jukebox R&B, and acid psych as refracted through the experience of adolescence spent idolizing the clever craftsmanship of the Beatles and the wiggy New Orleans textures of Dr. John in equal measure.
Razor – Violent Restitution [Reissue/1987] CD (Relapse)
Razor – Open Hostility [Reissue/1991] CD (Relapse)
Razor – Shotgun Justice [Reissue/1990] CD (Relapse)
Long out-of-print Canadian thrash.
Charlie Rich – So Lonesome I Could Cry [Reissue/1977] CD/LP (Fat Possum)
“The Hi recordings of Charlie Rich are in many ways the most reckless and adventurous of his career. In 1966 and 1967, Hi, a small Memphis label that hosted acts such as Willie Mitchell (and later Al Green) and the Bill Black Combo believed, like Sun, RCA, and Mercury before them, in Rich’s prodigious talent but had no idea where to put him categorically. Most are the songs associated with Hank Williams. They are revelatory in that they reveal just how wide-ranging Rich’s vision was. Beginning with Williams’ own “My Heart Would Know,” Rich takes the songs deep into his own musical soul and, like Ray Charles before him with Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music, makes them his own, turning them into timeless pop classics. Among Rich’s recordings, these 12 songs are some of the most enduring.” — AllMusic
Rose Windows – Rose Windows CD/LP+MP3 (Sub Pop)
When Chris Cheveyo abandoned his heavy instrumental post-rock band towards the end of 2010, he culled his old habits and made a fresh start with Rose Windows, a Seattle-based sextet that draws upon everything from American folk to West Saharan guitar rock, from pentatonic proto-metal to traditional Persian music, from the darker corners of California’s early psych scene to the hazy atmospherics of contemporary drone artists. After releasing their debut album, The Sun Dogs, Rose Windows escaped Seattle’s rapid growth by heading to Bogalusa, Louisiana to record their sophomore album at Studio in the Country, re-enlisting producer Randall Dunn (Earth, Cave Singers, Akron/Family). Geography inevitably leaves its mark on musicians, and there was a certain character to the Deep South—with its tradition of the delta blues and the swampy riffage of New Orleans—that resonated with the band.
Todd Rundgren/Emil Nikolaisen/Hans-Peter Lindstrøm – Runddans CD/2xLP+CD (Smalltown Supersound)
Runddans is the result of the collaboration between Todd Rundgren, Hans-Peter Lindstrom and Emil Nikolaisen. It’s a spiritual magnusopus that stands alongside Rundgren’s most worshipped trippy albums of the ‘70s, fusing his blue eyed soul with Lindstrøm’s disco epics and Emil Nikolaisen’s studio trickery into a cosmic mix of soul, synth, pop and disco.
Satan’s Wrath – Die Evil CD (Century Media)
The formula in Satan’s Wrath’s cauldron is simple, and the resultant elixir delivers a feverish 21st century continuation of the paganizing infernal assault that was heavy metal at its underground mid-eighties pinnacle: damaged by the slavering spite of Venom, the flesh-ripping fortitude of Metal Blade-era Slayer, the nightmarish derangement of Possessed, and the machine-gun onslaught of Destruction.
Satyricon – Live At The Opera 2xCD+DVD/3xLP (Napalm)
On September 8, 2013 Satyricon shared the stage with the Norwegian Opera Choir in Oslo for this live set.
Robin Schulz – Prayer CD (Atlantic)
Off the success of a #1 remix of Mr. Probz’ “Waves” the German electronic DJ/producer released a remix of “Prayer In C,” a collaboration with Lilly Wood & The Prick which reigned the #1 most Shazamed track globally for nine weeks straight, streamed over 84.5 Million times on Spotify, and pegged Buzzfeed’s ‘Unexpected Hit You Need To Hear This Fall.’
Nadine Shah – Fast Food CD/LP (Apollo)
Having earned an early reputation for that uniquely rich, soulful voice, Nadine Shah released her debut album Love Your Dum And Mad to critical acclaim in 2013. Created with trusted collaborator and producer Ben Hillier, the excellent follow-up Fast Food was born from a fervent two-month writing session. Fast Food exists on a knife-edge every bit as dramatic as we’ve come to expect from Nadine but with a sharpened eye for all things hook laden, retaining a brooding grandeur in its movements.
Sigh – Graveward CD (Candlelight)
Graveward is a black & roll/heavy metal take on the classic horror films of the ’60s and ’70s, evoking Fabio Frizzi (Lucio Fulci’s composer), Carnival Of Souls, Hammer horror films, and King Diamond.
Sissy Spacek – Dash/Anti-Clockwise [Reissue/2010/2011] CD (Helicopter)
Sissy Spacek – First Four 2xCD+DVD (Helicopter)
Sissy Spacek – Brath CD (Oxen)
Scathing sound by John Wiese and Corydon Ronnau, joined by Lasse Marhaug and Will Strangeland of Tearist and Silver Daggers, cautiously partitioned into short bursts of truly obliterated hardcore. Ruptured and bleeding out, heavily. Seventeen bonus tracks not on Dash LP. First Four collects their long out-of-print Sissy Spacek (2001), Remote Whale Control (2003), Scissors (2002), Devils Cone And Palm (2006), plus the exclusive full-length Coast To Coast. The DVD contains live footage, exclusive videos and a tour documentary. Printed, hinged box. Brath is a new album — a blizzard of bass and electronic noise, with fusillades of vocals and drums like razors continuing their noisecore trajectory while at the same time achieving new elevations of extreme noise-gore.
Six Feet Under – Crypt Of The Devil CD (Metal Blade)
The death metal behemoths are back with their eleventh full-length.
Chris Stapleton – Traveller CD/2xLP (Mercury Nashville)
Over the course of his acclaimed career, Stapleton has penned over 170 album cuts, including songs recorded by Adele, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley, and has such notable co-writers as Vince Gill, Peter Frampton and Sheryl Crow among others. “Stapleton’s writing is masterful, but his huge country/blues voice think Gregg Allman by way of the Kentucky coal mines is what will really blow your hair back and make you literally feel every word he sings.” — Rolling Stone
STS x RJD2 – STS x RJD2 CD (RJ’s Electrical Connections)
You may not know the name STS at first glance, but you have surely heard him: his fingerprints are on Ciara’s “Oh,” The Roots How I Got Over LP, and tracks from Jill Scott to Jazzy Jeff and more. RJD2 the man behind the Mad Men theme, “Ghostwriter,” and many tracks on TV and film has likely crossed your ears as well. Together, the two formed a unit and cut a full-length album of beautiful, soulful, poetic, and fluid. Heavily melodic and still able to rattle a trunk, this debut album takes nods from the Impressions to Ludacris to Wu-Tang, all the while holding originality, razor sharp lyricism, and a deep pocket in the highest regard.
The Suffers – Make Some Room CDEP (Rhyme And Reason)
The Suffers is a ten-piece band from Houston, TX who are redefining the sound of Gulf Coast soul, intertwining elements of classic American soul with rock & roll.
Super Furry Animals – Mwng [Reissue/2000] 2xCD/LP+MP3 (Domino)
Deluxe 15th anniversary reissue of SFA’s career-defining fourth album. Mwng was the band’s only Welsh language long player. It reached Number 11 in the UK album chart and it remains the biggest selling Welsh language album of all time. The deluxe CD contains the original album plus five studio tracks previously released on the 2001 US version of the album, as well as an unreleased Peel session and a live performance at All Tomorrow’s Parties.
Superheaven – Ours Is Chrome CD/LP+MP3 (SideOneDummy)
New album from the Pennsylvania grunge-rockers. Formed in 2007, Pennsylvania’s Superheaven has spent the better part of the last five years honing in on their dark and desperate sound across four EPs, an outstanding full-length debut in Jar, and an almost endless touring cycle. Produced by Will Yip, Ours Is Chrome consists of eleven emotionally heavy songs that drift effort — less between genres, channeling the band’s insecurities and determination into a collection of material that are simultaneously confident and downcast.
Tech N9ne – Special Effects CD/CD+DVD/2xLP (Strange Music)
Tech N9ne’s new studio album, Special Effects, features Eminem, Lil Wayne, T.I., Yo Gotti, E-40, 2 Chainz, B.o.B, Audio Push, Hopsin, Zuse, Krizz Kaliko, Big Scoob, Corey Taylor, Joey Cool, Gee Watts, Excision, Ryan Bradley, Marcus Yates, and Kate Rose, and is available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe includes a collectable coin and a bonus DVD with 45 minute behind the scenes video. Vinyl is red with gold splatter.
David Torn – Only Sky CD (ECM)
David Torn ever-intrepid guitarist, producer, improviser, film composer and soundscape artist returns with Only Sky, an album that explores the far sonic edges of what one man and a guitar can create, a solo recording of almost orchestral atmosphere.
Torres – Sprinter CD (Partisan)
Following her self-titled debut in 2013, Torres pushes herself to even noisier extremes on Sprinter, a punishing self-examination of epic spiritual and musical proportions. Scott escaped the confines of her churning mind in order to find herself by recording in the market town of Bridport in Dorset, England; and then at the Bristol studio of Portishead’s Adrian Adrian Utley. With his guitar riffs and synthesizers lingering in the background like a lowland mist and PJ Harvey’s Robert Ellis and Ian Olliver on rhythm—the two fortuitously reuniting 23 years after the release of Dry. Vinyl version due May 19.
Turnover – Peripheral Vision CD/LP+MP3 (Run For Cover)
An ethereal, reverb-drenched soundscape blending elements of hazy dream pop and the delicate emo rock of yesteryear.
Twinsmith – Alligator Years CD/LP+MP3 (Saddle Creek)
Alligator Years expands upon the charming surfy haze of Twinsmith’s 2013 eponymous album and “Honestly” single, with the band pushing themselves musically while moving toward a more dynamic pop sound. Each diverse track is imbued with an individual voice and style, and ranges from propulsive, melodic rock (“Seventeen”) to buoyantly playful pop (“Alligator Years”) from soaring, sing-along retro pop (“Is It Me”) to sumptuous, evocative new wave (“Constant Love”); from shimmery, summery pop (“Said and Done”, “Haunts”) to moody, slowburning ballads (“Dust”, “Carry On”).
Ultra-Violence – Deflect The Flow CD (Candlelight)
Ultra-Violence is a young thrash metal band from Turin, Italy formed in the fall of 2009.
Unleashed – Dawn Of The Nine CD (Nuclear Blast)
Unleashed have forged a modern death metal weapon from the blood and spirit of their Viking ancestors.
Paul Van Dyk – The Politics Of Dancing 3 CD (Ultra)
The DJ/producer returns with his seventh studio album.
Various Artists [Actress] – DJ Kicks CD/LP+CD (!K7)
British techno-related visionary Actress joins the DJ-Kicks series with a singular hour-long set, following his acclaimed fourth full-length effort, Ghettoville.
Billy Ward And His Dominoes – he Complete Federal/King Singles 2xCD (Real Gone Music)
58 tracks from the group that launched both Clyde McPhatter and Jackie Wilson to stardom. The Dominoes under the steely guidance of pianist, bandleader and ex-military man Billy Ward were a hit-making machine during the early ‘50s, probably the most popular R&B vocal group of the era, and this double-CD set is easily the most legitimate, comprehensive collection of their work ever assembled, presenting all 58 single sides (with a number of songs making their CD debut) that they recorded for the King and Federal labels, home to all but one of their R&B hits.
Alicia Witt – Revisionary History CD/LP (Compass)
New album from the singer/songwriter and classically trained pianist. Ben Folds teamed up with Alicia to produce Revisionary History, an album of songs that deal in themes of heartbreak, loyalty, and the amazing power that comes with finding one’s own voice and using it.
The Word – Soul Food CD/2xLP (Welk/Vanguard)
First album in 14 years from the acclaimed jam-blues-rock supergroup featuring Robert Randolph, John Medeski, and the North Mississippi Allstars. Also features guest vocalists Ruthie Foster and Amy Helm. (Vinyl version includes the exclusive track “The Twins.”
DVDs + Blu-ray:
Annie Lennox – An Evening Of Nostalgia With Annie Lennox DVD/Blu-ray (Blue Note)
An Evening With Annie Lennox captures one the acclaimed artists in her only full concert performance of songs from her Grammy-nominated Nostalgia album. Fronting a 19-piece band including string and horn sections Lennox demonstrates her distinctive vocal and performance talents on an array of classic American standards and a few of her Eurythmics hits and solo tracks.
This Week’s Vinyl Exclusives:
16 Horsepower – Folklore [Reissue/2002] LP (Volkoren)
16 Horsepower – Olden [Reissue/2003] LP (Volkoren)
Folklore is 16 Horsepower’s fourth album, originally released in 2002 on Glitterhouse. As hinted to by its name, most of the material on the album is drawn from traditional folk music. Only four of the songs (“Hutterite Mile,” “Blessed Persistence,” “Beyond The Pale” and “Flutter”) on the album are original 16 Horsepower compositions. Recorded before their break up, Olden is divided into three sections, with each section separated by two short interviews with David Eugene Edwards, the band’s vocalist and lead musician. The first seven tracks were recorded at the Night Owl Studio in Denver in 1993, and are referred to as the “Night Owl Studio Sessions.” The following six songs were recorded at Kerr Macy studio in Denver in 1994. The last six songs are live recordings from their session at the Mercury Cafe in Denver in 1994.
Anaal Nathrakh – Domine Non Es Dignus [Reissue/2004] LP (Back On Black)
Anaal Nathrakh – Domine Non Es Dignus [Reissue/2006] LP (Back On Black)
Anaal Nathrakh was created for one purpose — to be the soundtrack for armageddon, the audial essence of evil, hatred and violence, the true spirit of necro taken to its musical extremes.
Apoptygma Berzerk – Unicorn EP [2002] LP (Artoffakt)
Apoptygma Berzerk – Imagine There’s No Lennon [2009] 2xLP (Artoffakt)
Originally released on Harmonizer in 2002 as a duet with Propaganda’s Claudia Brucken, “Unicorn” is one of Apoptygma Berzerk’s standout songs, still ubiquitous in clubs, and a fan favorite at Apop shows. Artoffact Records presents the Unicorn EP, originally released as a European bonus disc to the Harmonizer DVD, on vinyl for the first time. Their live album, Imagine There’s No Lennon, was recorded in 2009 on the Rocket Science tour and was previously only available as a CD/DVD. This vinyl version includes all of the Lennon CD tracks presented on a gorgeous extra-wide spine gatefold double-LP. (Limited copies of both titles pressed on color vinyl.)
As It Is – Never Happy Ever After LP (Fearless)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New album from the Brighton-via-Minneapolis pop-rockers.
Joseph Bauer – Deadgirl [2008] LP (VCR)
Joseph Bauer’s original score to one of the most brutal independent horror movies of the last five years, Deadgirl (2008), is now available for the first time on vinyl. Music sourced from the master recordings as provided by the composer. Limited HQ-180gm two-tone vinyl LP pressing.
Brand New – Deja Entendu [Reissue/2003] 2xLP (Triple Crown)
Standard edition double-vinyl reissue. Like the RSD 2015 version, this is rather limited.
Byzantine – To Release Is To Resolve LP (Cen)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The West Virginia’s cult groove metallers return with their fifth album.
Carpathian Forest – Defending The Throne Of Evil [Reissue/2003] 2xLP (Back On Black)
Carpathian Forest is one of a few legends surviving in today’s true Norwegian black metal scene that have stayed true to their origins.
Terry Clark/Thelonious Monk – In Orbit [Reissue/1958] LP (Fantasy)
Thelonious Monk, in addition to all his other notable qualities, was actually one of Riverside’s most valuable talent scouts, recommending trumpeter Clark Terry in addition to many other future jazz stars. The astoundingly adept trumpeter was always greatly appreciated by Monk, who quickly accepted the invitation to accompany Terry on this occasion. It was an album full of firsts and rarities: Monk’s only Riverside appearance as a sideman; the first of Terry’s many recordings on flugelhorn; the first of a great many Riverside dates for the great bassist Sam Jones; and the only occasion on which Monk and drummer Philly Joe Jones recorded together.
Joe Crow – Compulsion [Reissue/1982] 12” (Dark Entries)
Joe Crow is a post-punk musician from Birmingham, England. He was a member of legendary Brum band The Prefects, and hung on long enough after the name-change to appear on a couple of early Nightingales singles. In 1981 Joe began his solo career and recorded a two-song demo “Compulsion” and “Absent Friends.” Joe sent copies of the finished recordings to Cherry Red, who thanks to Lawrence of Felt, ended up releasing the single in 1982. An edited version of the single would later appear on the compilation Pillows & Prayers that collected songs that originated as 45s or EPs. Martin Gore of Depeche Mode subsequently covered “Compulsion” on his Counterfeit EP in 1989 forever solidifying its status in the cannon of UK melancholic synth pop.
Dälek – From Filthy Tongue Of Gods And Griots [Reissue/2002] 2xLP (Ici D’ailleurs)
From Filthy Tongue Of Gods And Griots is built on the noisy pairing of Oktopus’ grimy beats and Dälek’s raspy flow. On “Spiritual Healing,” race and religion are viciously dissected as Dälek’s spooky, spider-web verbals interweave with guitar feedback and a rumbling bass line. The chillingly beautiful “Speak Volumes” finds an eerie church organ creeping through D’s gravel-crunching critique of underground hip-hop’s booty-ness.
Dama/Libra – Claw LP (Northern Spy)
Claw is the first album by Dama/Libra, a collaboration between Joel RL Phelps and G. Stuart Dahlquist, recorded over an 18-month period between 2011 and 2013, and is a lush composition teeming with a quiet intensity, subtle beauty, and pulsating with moments of raw, emotional catharsis.
Dance Gavin Dance – Instant Gratification LP+CD (Rise)
Recently released on CD – now available on color vinyl. New album from the screamo/funk/experimental alt rockers.
Danko Jones – I’m Alive & On Fire [Reissue/2001] LP (MRI Associated)
Danko Jones – Born A Lion [Reissue/2002] LP (MRI Associated)
Danko Jones – We Sweat Blood [Reissue/2003] LP (MRI Associated)
Danko Jones – Sleep Is The Enemy [Reissue/2006] LP (MRI Associated)
Over the course of his career, Danko Jones has forged a singular brand of rock ‘n’ roll that draws equally from the blues, ’60s garage, ’70s hard rock and power-pop, ’80s hardcore, ’90s indie rock and Scandinavian metal — not to mention classic stand-up comedy records — without ever being fully defined by any of those sources. But while built from the same rudiments, each Danko Jones record has possessed a distinct sonic identity and attitude.
D’Angelo – Voodoo [Reissue/2000] 2xLP (Virgin)
15th anniversary color vinyl reissue of D’Angelo’s classic sophomore album. Voodoo features an extensive line-up of musicians associated with the Soulquarians musical collective. Produced primarily by D’Angelo, the album features a loose, groove-based funk sound and serves as a departure from the more conventional song structure of his debut album, Brown Sugar.
Dead Ghosts – Dead Ghosts [Reissue/2010] LP+MP3 (Burger)
Vinyl reissue of the Vancouver garage fuzz band’s debut album.
Death – N.E.W. LP (Tryangle)
Recently released on CD and cassette – now available on vinyl. Literally and metaphysical NEWness from seminal Detroit punks — life lessons from Death! Transcendence through screaming to your soul. Rock & roll. The historical sounds of Death arrive at today without missing a step. If their first record since the sessions of 1976 isn’t N.E.W., then what is?
Download – Charlie’s Family [1996] LP (Artoffact)
20th anniversary vinyl release of the Charlie’s Family soundtrack by Download, the post-Skinny Puppy project featuring Cevin Key and Dwayne Goettel. (Limited quantities pressed on color vinyl.)
Kat Edmonson – The Big Picture [2014] LP (Razor & Tie)
With her new album Kat Edmonson reveals a fresh and exhilarating follow-up to her critically acclaimed, Way Down Low, that the New York Times hailed “as fresh as a spring bouquet,” and the Boston Globe called “one of the greatest vocal albums I’ve ever heard.” For The Big Picture, Kat teamed with Mitchell Froom (Paul McCartney, Crowded House, Sheryl Crow). The album introduces extraordinary new layers of pop craft, highlighting Kat’s uniquely infectious vocal style as well as her equally exceptional songwriting skills, blending memorable hooks with lyrics that are witty, wise, and tender.
Eels – Royal Albert Hall 3xLP+DVD (PIAS America)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. In May 2014 Eels embarked on an ambitious 53-show world tour. Starting in Phoenix, Arizona and crossing The United States and Canada before rolling through mainland Europe and Great Britain, the band performed at New York’s Apollo, Chicago’s Vic Theater, Los Angeles Orpheum Theater, The Montreux Jazz Festival and The Amsterdam Concert Hall, among many others. On the night of June 30 Eels returned to London’s legendary Royal Albert Hall for the first time in nine years to play a stunning show that was filmed and recorded.
Fallout Boy – American Beauty/American Psycho LP (Island)
Released earlier this year on CD – now available on vinyl. New album featuring the song “Immortals” as featured in the motion picture Big Hero 6.
Franz Ferdinand – Live 2014 2xLP (Let Them Eat Vinyl)
This is an exclusive live recording of Scottish indie rock giants, Franz Ferdinand of their March 2014 performance at the Roundhouse in London. This is one of two in a collection of first ever official live albums of the band, which was taken from their Live 2014 tour following the successful release of fourth studio album, Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action in August 2013.
Gallows – Desolation Sounds LP (Bridge 9)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The UK hardcore band continues their journey into weirder, esoteric territory that stretches the genre’s boundaries and yet retains mammoth rock power.
Angel “Pocho” Gatti – Turbo Music LP (Sonorama)
Sought after jazz and funk from the sound library of Edizioni Musicali Devega/Milano. Vinyl-only reissue of all important tracks from Angel Pocho Gatti`s promotional album Turbomusic produced in 1981, plus other lost funk treasures from his ‘70s Devega repertoire. Eleven nuggets of Italian library music between big band funk and bossa rhythm, with whirling horns, wild flutes and buzzy synth lines inspired and occasionally framed by sounds of Formula 1.
Claudio Gizzi – Andy Warhol’s Blood For Dracula [1973] LP (Dagored)
Claudio Gizzi – Andy Warhol’s Flesh For Frankenstein [1974] LP (Dagored)
Released in 1973 and 1974 respectively, Blood For Dracula and Flesh For Frankenstein were interesting if not a little offbeat horror movies both of which were filmed in Italy. The legendary Paul Morrissey directed with the assistance in more ways than one of Italian filmmaker Antonio Margheriti, with the productions overseen by Andy Warhol. The Italian composer Claudio Gizzi, with harmonious themes, created a dark and romantically laced score that works very well within the well-known gothic tale of Dracula here directed in a not so conventional way by the genius of Morrissey and Warhol.
Ben Goldberg – Orphic Machine LP (The Royal Potato Family)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. “Clarinetist Ben Goldberg is not exaggerating when he calls Orphic Machine the most ambitious project of his more than 25-year career. Working from the “speculative poetics” of author and critic Allen Grossman’s “Summa Lyrica” and addressing the subject of artistic inspiration itself, Goldberg’s cross-genre compositions–combining jazz, rock and klezmer–are complex and compelling.” – Elmore Magazine
Good Riddance – Peace In Our Time LP (Fat Wreck Chords)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Good Riddance announced their reunion back in 2012, and Peace In Our Time marks the group’s first new album in nine years.
Vince Guaraldi Trio – Vince Guaraldi Trio [Reissue/1956] LP (Fantasy)
This San Francisco trio of the mid-1950s has a sparkling personality all its own, with a refreshing lack of pretentiousness. Vince Guaraldi and Eddie Duran had been longtime associates in the local music scene and their rapport is self-evident, while bassist Dean Reilly fit right in. With an ebullient swing on the up-tempos, and a subtle, unhackneyed approach to ballads such as “Sweet And Lovely” and jazz standards such as John Lewis’ “Django,” this 1956 LP marks Guaraldi’s triumphant first complete album as a leader. With Eddie Duran and Dean Reilly.
Happyness – Weird Little Birthday LP (Bar/None)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Weird Little Birthday. puts Happyness at the forefront of, wait for it, ‘jangle-gaze’ while displaying a complex melancholic and introspective nature. Filled with youthful exuberance and packed full of droll, deadpan British humor. This trio of South London lads has also taken the Brit press by storm making NME’s ‘Best Newcomers’ list and The Sunday Times ‘Best Albums Of The Year.’ For fans of Pavement, MGMT and Yo La Tengo.
Colin Hay – Next Year People LP (Compass)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Colin Hay’s voice and visage are familiar to millions as frontman, songwriter, and vocalist of pop sensation Men At Work (“Down Under,” “Overkill,” “Who Can It Be Now?”). But over the past 15 years he has reinvented himself as a solo artist. Next Year People is full of quizzical, curious, cynical yet openhearted songs with catchy melodic hooks that underscore deeply insightful lyrics.
Hayden – Hey Love LP (Arts & Crafts)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. On Hey Love, Hayden’s eighth full-length record, the Toronto musician and songwriter writes the most intimate passage yet in his decades-deep story. The follow-up to 2013’s Us Alone, his sonically warm and emotive debut record on Arts & Crafts, is a heartrending love letter of hope and disarray, the album’s thirteen songs among Hayden Desser’s most affective, tactile, rousing yet restrained work to date. The title track, a languid anthem exposed by chiming pedal steel, introduces this dialogue – about loves both comfortable and disconnected, exhilarating and naive – with Hayden’s woozy pre-dawn falsetto propped up by a watchful chorus.
Gemma Hayes – Bones + Longing LP (Chasing Dragons)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The fifth studio album from the Mercury Prize nominated Irish singer/songwriter. Gemma crowdsourced funding to record Bones + Longing, with fans donating via the PledgeMusic website. She was awarded Best Female Live Artist 2012 by MTV Ireland, and continues to write beautiful music with an eclectic mix of pop, folk and electronica.
Leafcutter John – Resurrection LP (Desire Path)
Sixth solo album from the UK-based artist and member of Polar Bear. “Leafcutter John’s latest album Resurrection chimes in with a sonorous bell, swept forward through layers of resonating frequencies, leaving a wave of serenity in its wake. It’s John Barton’s his first solo work as this alias since 2006’s The Forrest And The Sea and it makes an indubitable impression in the listener a mere few bars in. In the repercussions left by the bells comes a low chant, a human voice that impresses a sense of foreboding on the music, the serenity disrupted by a strong dissonance applied by the vocalization.” – The Formant
Thomas Leer – Private Plane b/w International [Reissue/1978] 12” (Dark Entries)
Thomas Leer is an innovative electronic musician who was born in Port Glasgow, Scotland. He began singing for a local band at age 13, and was writing his own music by 18. By 1977, he had moved to London, where he fronted Pressure, a Clash-esque punk group with fellow experimental Scottish musician Robert Rental. After hearing Kraftwerk, Leer became interested in synthesizers—not long after, he was exploring the experimental techniques of Eno, Zappa, Beefheart, Faust, and Can. In 1978, Thomas released his first single, “Private Plane/International,” on his own Oblique Records.
Legendary Pink Dots/kETvECTOR – The Shock Exchange LP (Rustblade)
The Shock Exchange presents an encounter between two of the most interesting and unique projects of the current neo-psychedelic and electronic music panorama. The Legendary Pink Dots need no introduction, and on Side A they once again solidify their status as musical pioneers with all new songs and swirling psychedelic arrangements led by the charismatic voice of Edward Ka-spel. Side B is dedicated to the progressive and psychedelic electronic project kETvECTOR, born from the mind of Justin Bennett (Skinny Puppy/Bahntier) together with Stefano Rossello (Bahntier), showcasing many facets of the project; from electronic free jazz to ambient experimental and esoteric avant-garde.
Liz Longley – Liz Longley LP (Welk/Sugar Hill)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Liz Longley is the self-titled label debut from the talented singer/songwriter. A Berklee College of Music graduate, Liz has been touring solo for several years, building a loyal following across the country.
Lydia Lunch & HR Giger Black Sun Productions With Coil – operettAmorale [2005] LP (Rustblade)
operettAmorale is Black Sun Production’s personal tribute to the poetry of German poet, playwright and thinker Bertolt Brecht (1898-1956). The album is composed of 11 classic Brecht’s songs, here revisited according to Massimo & Pierce’s irreverent attitude. Massimo & Pierce invited some of their friends to contribute to operettAmorale: Coil recorded the song “A List Of Wishes” (one of the latest studio performances by Johnn Balance) purposely for this album; Lydia Lunch delivered his incomparable voice for “The Ballad Of Sexual Dependency;” HR Giger contributed with the cover artwork and a vocal cameo appearance on “Seeräuber-Jenny.” operettAmorale was produced by Massimo & Pierce in collaboration with Larsen’s member Fabrizio Modonese Palumbo, whom also provided some original music and the acoustic arrangements. Among the musicians whom partecipated to operettAmorale‘s recording sessions are Julia Kent (Antony And The Johnsons) and Marco Schiavo (Larsen). Color Vinyl.
Drew Lustman – Crystal Cowboy 2xLP+MP3 (Planet Mu)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Drew Lustman drops FaltyDL alias for his new album. Crystal Cowboy is Lustman’s cleanest, most concise record to date. He often uses the speed or tropes of hardcore and drum & bass, assembling tracks a bit like Lego, but adding in his own almost opaque elements of sophisticated soul & funk to give the roughness some melodic light and emotional pull.
Harry Manfredini – Friday The 13th Part II [OST] LP (Waxwork)
Vinyl reissue of the original motion picture score to the 1981 horror genre defining slasher sequel.
Mayhem – Grand Declaration Of War [Reissue/2000] LP (Back On Black)
Mayhem – Chimera [Reissue/2004] LP (Back On Black)
One of the earliest of the Norwegian black metal bands to form, Mayhem’s 20 year history is littered with tragedy and controversy. Now Back On Black reissues a few of their studio albums on deluxe audiophile quality vinyl.
Thelonious Monk – At The Blackhawk [Reissue/1960] LP (Fantasy)
The near-impromptu results of 1960’s live LP At The Blackhawk are a triumph of jazz improvisation. As the story goes, Monk had been scheduled to make a sextet album as co-leader with drummer Shelly Manne, but after two days’ work, the chemistry wasn’t there. The producer added Harold Land and Joe Gordon to the Monk working group for one night at the San Francisco nightclub, and the results were solid, thanks to the unquenchable spirit of Thelonious Monk. With Charlie Rouse, John Ore, Billy Higgins, Joe Gordon, Harold Land.
Montibus Communitas – The Pilgrim To The Absolute LP+MP3 (Beyond Beyond Is Beyond)
Constantly evolving both in their membership and use musical instruments — and often within the span of a single song, the sound of a pilgrimage within a pilgrimage — Montibus Communitas is exceptionally alive and vibrant, an ever-flowing stream of sound that may include the birds singing, the stars shining, laughter, the lighting of a smoke, or a band member getting up to grab a beer, mid-mind-melting raga-roll freakout. Glow in the dark vinyl.
Ennio Morricone – Escalation [1968] LP (Dagored)
In 1968 the maestro Ennio Morricone was at the height of his career, scoring Sergio Leone’s classic Once Upon A Time In The West. For the soundtrack of Roberto Faenza’s 1968 cult debut movie Escalation, set in swinging London, Morricone teamed up with fellow composer Bruno Nicolai and the vocalizations of Alessandro Alessandroni’s Cantori Moderni, making this one of his least minimal soundtracks. Pressed on transparent yellow vinyl
Mark Mothersbaugh – The LEGO Movie [OST] 2xLP (Spacelab9)
Double-LP featuring the full 24-track score by renowned composer and founding member of Devo Mark Mothersbaugh (21 Jump Street, Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs, The Royal Tenenbaums, Rushmore) plus four unique versions of the infectious theme song “Everything Is Awesome,” performed by Tegan and Sara featuring The Lonely Island.
Murder By Death – Big Dark Love LP (Murder By Death)
Special edition mirrored foilboard gatefold colored vinyl. For a band that has built its formidable, near 15-year career around a consideration to tension, release, bombast, ecstasy, and highest-highs vs. lowest-lows, it is something to say that this is Murder By Death’s most dynamic release to date. Sonically here, their signature sound rootsy indie rock, cinematic gothic ballads, and rousing pub rock shout-alongs mix with enlivening new stylistic elements touches of pop, synth-y electronics, and psych rock only hinted at on previous albums.
N.W.A. – N.W.A. And The Posse [Reissue/1987] LP (Capitol)
N.W.A. And The Posse is a 1987 release that compiled various Dr. Dre-produced tracks. The album features a collection of rap musicians at the beginnings of their soon-to-be successful career, including previously released tracks by N.W.A, Eazy-E, the Fila Fresh Crew, and Rappinstine. Reissued on vinyl for the first time in over 15 years with a limited edition 3D cover.
Orange Goblin – Healing Through Fire [Reissue/2007] 2xLP (Back On Black)
Healing Through Fire is the sixth full-length album by Orange Goblin released in 2007. This was their first album released on Sanctuary Records, and their first not to be released by Rise Above Records.
Maceo Parker – Us [Reissue/1974] LP (Get On Down)
Maceo Parker was one of the most revered and loved members of James Brown’s famed J.B.’s band from the late ‘60s to the mid-1970s. Alongside his instantly-recognizable alto saxophone solos, he occasionally performed as comedian before James Brown shows, in addition to playing MC. He was a true renaissance man. And while other members of The Godfather of Soul’s inner circle – most notably trombonist Fred Wesley – had solo albums at the advent of Brown’s People Records, Maceo had to wait his turn for a couple years. By the time 1974 rolled around, this talented musician and personality could not be denied, and he burst onto the scene as a group leader with one of the most impressive albums in the People catalog: the simply titled, but deeply felt, Us.
Penguin Prison – Lost In New York LP (Downtown)
New York-based artist/producer/songwriter/DJ Penguin Prison (aka Chris Glover) has become known for mixing fresh remixes by artists like Lana Del Rey, Kylie Minogue, Ellie Goulding, Imagine Dragons and Maroon 5 at festivals like Fun Fun Fun, SXSW and Bonaroo. Lost In New York is his sophomore album.
Playdate – Imagination [2013] LP (Asian Man/Fun Fun)
Featuring husband and wife duo of Greg Attonito (Bouncing Souls) and Shanti Wintergate, Playdate create wonderfully crafted indie pop songs that are meant for the entire family. The album was originally released on CD-only in 2013, but is now available on light blue vinyl.
Psychic Reality – Chassis LP (Intercoastal Arts)
Psychic Reality is Leyna Noel, a New York-based keyboardist who has played with Pocahaunted among others. Four long years after her 2011 debut Vibrant New Age on Not Not Fun — and following on from a rejuvenating trip to Jamaica with M. Geddes Gengras in 2013 — Noel releases her sophomore full-length, Chassis.
Sagan Youth – Cela LP+MP3 (Breakworld)
The duo’s second full-length release Cela is a 10-song science-fiction concept album chronicling the journey to and exploration of Saturn’s icy moon Enceladus. The story is portrayed not only through vividly emotive tracks but also by an intricate comic which graces the inside of the album’s gatefold sleeve. Cela was laboriously recorded using only analog synthesizers, effects, and tape units, creating a complex tapestry of organically evolving overtones.
Ty Segall/King Tuff – Live At Pickathon 12” (Easy Sound Recording Company)
Split LP culled from the garage titans’ respective sets at the 2013 Pickathon Music Festival in Happy Valley, OR.
Claudio Simonetti’s Goblin – Murder Collection LP (Rustblade)
One of the most revered composers in the horror genre, Claudio Simonetti of Goblin releases this picture disc of classic tracks that have been rearranged by Simonetti.
Soundtrack – Juice [Reissue/1991] LP (Geffen)
Juice is the soundtrack to the 1992 film starring Tupac Shakur and Omar Epps and consists mainly of period hip-hop tracks. The soundtrack was a success and featured four charting singles “Uptown Anthem,” “Juice (Know The Ledge),” “Don’t Be Afraid” and “Is It Good To You.”
Amy Speace – That Kind Of Girl LP (Windbone)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. That Kind Of Girl is an intimate, heart-wrenching exploration of a love affair and its aftermath, the dangerous addictive dance of love and alcohol, and the sobering journey out of it. Recorded live in three days to capture an emotional immediacy, rife with stirring strings, weeping pedal steel and full of melancholy, these songs are not only an exorcism of the soul but an exploration of the impossible secrecy of “the other woman.” The album was recorded in East Nashville and features producer Neilson Hubbard on drums, guitarists Will Kimbrough (Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider) and Carl Broemel (My Morning Jacket), Eamon McLoughlin on strings and mandolin, Danny Mitchell on keys and horns, and Dean Marold on upright bass.
The Stranglers – About Time [Reissue/1995] LP (Let Them Eat Vinyl)
The Stranglers – Written In Red [1997] 2xLP (Let Them Eat Vinyl)
The Stranglers – Friday The Thirteenth: Live At Royal Albert Hall [1997] 2xLP (Let Them Eat Vinyl)
The Stranglers – Coup De Grace [1998] LP (Let Them Eat Vinyl)
Color vinyl editions of three mark II studio albums and one live set from the veteran English punk/new wave band.
Sworn In – The Lovers/The Brother LP (Razor & Tie)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Sworn In’s The Lovers /The Devil is a breakthrough, not merely for the Chicago-based heavy music aggregate, but a step forward for the scene itself. With an average age of 21, the five members of Sworn In have delivered a sonic landscape full of unexpected twists and extreme musical dualities. The new album not only expands on Sworn In’s 2013 debut, The Death Card, but also takes the listener on an unforgettable, yet disturbing aural journey.
Tei Shi – Verde LP (Mermaid Avenue)
“Tei Shi is the moniker of New York City-based singer/songwriter and producer Valerie Teicher. She released her first EP, Saudade, in 2013 with collaborator and producer Luca (who also helped produce Verde). The project introduced her to the world as a skilled and fluid vocalist, the kind who can create waves with nothing but her voice and loops… Verde is in one sense a series of experiments exploring how an artist maintains an individual voice across genres. She may still be coming into her own in that regard, but Verde glows with unmistakable and appealing confidence… On record, Teicher radiates a quiet self-possession, someone conscious of her desires and unafraid of vulnerability.” — Pitchfork
U.G.K. – Ridin’ Dirty [Reissue/2006] 2xLP (Get On Down)
Bun B and Pimp C (R.I.P.) have long been legends in the rap game, deservedly calling themselves Underground Kingz. At a time when Southern Rap had to fight it’s way for respect, U.G.K kept cranking out albums that would soon solidify them as rap royalty. With Ridin’ Dirty, their third album, Bun B and Pimp C had reached an apex, making an album that was just an instant classic. It has everything that people have come to expect from Houston rap: candy-painted cars, wood-grained steering wheels, flashy jewelry, late-night odes to lean and weed, passing references to DJ Screw tapes, those warm funk synthesizers that sound like radio oldies. Clear vinyl.
Wendy O. Williams – W.O.W. [Reissue/1984] LP (Plasmatic Media)
W.O.W. is Wendy O. Williams’ debut album after the breakup of The Plasmatics. Gene Simmons of Kiss produced and played bass on the 1984 album as well as co-wrote some of the songs. Hard rock with brains and more.
Cassandra Wilson – Coming Forth By Day LP (Sony Legacy)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. An otherworldly musical homage to legendary jazz vocalist Billie Holiday on the 100th anniversary of the singer’s birth, Coming Forth By Day is Cassandra Wilson’s moody, soulful new album showcase for contemporary yet timeless interpretations of standards associated with Lady Day.
- Spencer Yeh – Solo Voice I-X LP (Primary Information)
- Spencer Yeh’s first LP devoted entirely to the voice has its most obvious precedents in ’60s and ’70s sound poetry (the raw and a-verbal Four Horsemen, post-Lettrist France, Joan La Barbara). Having moved from virtuosic, intensely physical performances to more focused studies attached to performance situations and the body, he maintains a strict fidelity to the specific properties of his voice. Yeh has relied on amplification and various studio techniques; here the breaths have been edited out, letting the vocalizations run together in palpitating continua.
Adrian Younge – Presents: Something About April LP (Linear Labs)
Adrian Younge – Presents: Something About April [Instrumentals] LP (Linear Labs)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. In the four years since Adrian Younge’s Something About April album first appeared, the Los Angeles-based producer and multi-instrumentalist has become his own musical cottage industry. Not only has he collaborated with musical legends ranging from The Delfonics to Ghostface Killah, Ali Shaheed Muhammad and The Souls of Mischief, his work has also been sampled by such rap giants as 50 Cent, Jay-Z and Common.
Zu – Cortar Todo LP (Ipecac)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. For over fifteen years, Zu’s modus operandi of straddling and abusing musical genres has resulted in over fifteen unique album releases across labels such as Ipecac, Atavistic and Headz (Japan). Their experimental amalgam of metal, math, no-wave, noise and electronics, led acclaimed composer John Zorn to describe their sound as “a powerful and expressive music that totally blows away what most bands do these days.” “Combines the abstractions of Sonic Youth with the out-there explorations of the best free jazz.” — The Times
Cassettes:
Body-San – Corporate Interiors (100% Silk)
Shopping mall lobby vapors waft heavy in the strutting fluorescent house of Kansas City producer Brandon Knocke aka Body-San’s latest collection, Corporate Interiors. The album’s 8 tracks share a waterfall window display endlessness, fluttering rhythms and escalator synths chilled with air-conditioned muzak and ambient space.
Cankun – Only The Sun Is Full Of Gold (Not Not Fun)
Vincent Caylet’s state of mind as Cankun has always been sunburnt and woozy but, despite its title, Only The Sun Is Full Of Gold is his first to stray intriguingly into the shade. “I wanted to explore the melancholic aspect of my music, the wild side.” This motive comes through in longer, looser sections, more lurking melodies, and moments of heavier mood, communed through his ongoing language of snake-charmer guitar, heatstroked keyboards, and tribal dub electronics.
The Cyclist – Hot House (100% Silk)
Andrew Morrison’s grasp of static-hazed grit as a Cyclist production signature continues to grow more grisly and majestic. On Hot House he pushes beyond tape throb into widescreen steel-wool jack, cooled with fifth-generation hiss and electric new age. Side A is all singles: heady bass, blasted dub, and phasing, echoed keys. But the reverse three lurk outside the club, blanker synthesizing, droned rhythm spirals, desperation on the streets.
Severed + Said – Occlusions (Not Not Fun)
Jacksonville, Floridian John Touchton’s second release of ritualistic synthesizer music, Occlusions, is less soundtrack-ish than his last and hugely more sunken. The decision to blast his hardware through a trio of vintage amps before capturing it on the Tascam gives this set of songs a more physical aspect, thick throbs over signal buzz and low corridors of drum machinery.
Book:
Murder By Death – Framed: The Poster Art Of MBD (Murder By Death)
A collection of 15 years of everything from photocopied handbills for house shows to beautiful glow-in-the-dark prints used to promote theater gigs. It also has essays by the band and several screenprinters/artists.
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