CDs + Vinyl:
Joshua Abrams – Natural Information CD (Eremite)
Joshua Abrams – Represencing CD (Eremite)
Natural Information is another fascinating entry in a solo discography of recordings that gather aesthetic input from all over the map into vivid personal statements. At the heart of the album is the guimbri, a three-stringed animal hide bass traditionally used by the Gnawa of North Africa in healing ceremonies. For Represencing, recorded at home in Chicago in 2011, Abrams again organizes small group statements around the resonant grooves of the North African ceremonial instrument with a unique a broadly assimilative compositional voice.
A Certain Ratio – Sextet [Reissue/1982] 2xCD/2xLP (Factory Benelux)
Self-produced at Revolution Studio, Sextet saw the original Ratio quintet of Donald Johnson, Jeremy Kerr, Martin Moscrop, Simon Topping and Peter Terrell joined by co-vocalist Martha Tili Tilson. Written and recorded following a transformative sojourn in New York in late 1980, the album reflects Latin, samba and even jazz influences, while still retaining Ratio’s signature brittle funk textures, heard in full effect on Lucinda, Gum and trancelike floor filler Knife Slits Water.
Newly remastered and expanded with Peel Session tracks from 1981-82.
Anti-Nowhere League – We Are… The League …Uncut CD (Cleopatra)
Animal and the boys return with brand new and rowdy, re-recordings of The League’s classic debut LP plus bonus tracks.
Arca – Xen CD/LP (Mute)
Arca is the incarnation of Alejandro Ghersi, a 24-year old Venezuelan producer and musician. Having previously released EPs, mixtapes, and produced for the likes of FKA Twigs, Bjork, and Kanye West, Arca’s music is uniquely his own. Xen is a very personal record for Arca, with the underlying concept revolving around gender and sexuality. However, gender isn’t the defining concept but rather a vessel with which to expose Arca’s vulnerability.
Lee Bannon – Main/Flex CD (Chillectro)
Merges hip-hop, EDM, and drum ‘n’ bass alongside an A-list of collaborators including Hak of Ratking and Charlie Benante of Anthrax.
Batida – Dois CD/LP (Soundway)
Strands of Afro-house, Kuduro, Benga, Semba, samples from old Angolan movies and Afrobeat tracks, African MCs and musicians from all over the world are all deftly mixed together by Pedro Coquenao. Inspired by the multicultural hotbed of his home city of Lisbon and trips to Nairobi and Luanda, Dois was predominately produced in his own garage-studio over a two-year period. Much of the remix and sampling spirit from the first record remains but Dois also features live instrumentation along with a host of different guests.
Big Star – Live In Memphis CD/2xLP+MP3 (Omnivore)
Big Star’s only known professionally recorded show in its entirety. Contains Big Star classics like “Thank You Friends,” “September Gurls,” and “The Ballad Of El Goodo,” Chris Bell’s “I Am The Cosmos,” and covers of T.Rex, The Kinks, Todd Rundgren and more, performed by Big Star: Alex Chilton, Jody Stephens, and Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow from The Posies. First 1,000 copies on vinyl pressed on red wax. Also available on stand-alone DVD.
Black Milk – If There’s A Hell Below CD (Computer Ugly)
“Black Milk is a paradoxical artist, one defined by both wild reinvention and stasis. To this point, every other Black Milk album is a corrective, somehow a refutation of the album that came before it. He keeps pressing reset and then playing the game the same: Tronic was his vaunted abandonment of vinyl fetishism for synthesizers; Album Of The Year his embrace of live-band instrumentation; No Poison, No Paradise his nightmare-filled stab at creating a ’70s soul epic. But put them on shuffle and the delineations disappear—they all sound like Black Milk tracks. On If There’s A Hell Below, for the first time, he consciously takes a sonic mulligan, trading in the same murky Castlevania synth-lines, wrecking-ball drums and dark-night-of-the-soul wails as its predecessor.” — Pitchfork
The Bloodhounds – Let Loose CD/LP (Alive)
The Bloodhounds play blues/R&B rock & roll with a fresh, edgy, almost punk edge, and add a hint of a Latin groove to the mix. Though founded on an electric sound they also dig the old jug band style of playing. Picking up cheap acoustic guitars, turning ordinary household items into instruments and constructing a traditional washtub-broomstick bass, they often busk in the streets of downtown Los Angeles to the delight of large crowds.
Dean Blunt – Black Metal CD/LP (Rough Trade)
Blunt’s newest odyssey, Black Metal, rides this tension between critical detachment and mainlined human feeling, and in fact he climbs ever-steeper theoretical heights just as his emotionally stark songs become, at times, startlingly intimate.
Captain Beefheart – Full Moon In Cowtown: Live 1974 Radio Broadcast CD/LP (Chrome Dreams)
By the time of this April 1974 broadcast, Captain Beefheart – and the 29th incarnation in a long line of ever-mutating Magic Bands – had reverted to more traditionally structured compositions. The touring band included some highly revered players including reedsman Del Simmons, guitarists Dean Smith and Fuzzy Fuscaldo, bassist Paul Uhrig, and drummer Ty Grimes. Caught live in Kansas City, Beefheart was amidst an extensive US tour promoting his eighth album, Unconditionally Guaranteed.
Cavalera Conspiracy – Pandemonium CD/LP (Napalm)
The Cavalera brothers Max and Igor delude nobody when it comes to determination and stubbornness. In the 1990s the Brazilians brought up some of the most uncompromising death/thrash metal records as Sepultura. Their latest record Pandemonium is no exception: frontman Max Cavalera rushes with bellow of rage into the fray, lets his brother drum coarsest grooves and puts his finger into the open wound. CD version is available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe adds two bonus tracks and is packaged in a digipak.
Chicago – September 13th 1969 CD (Cleopatra)
Recorded live at the Toronto Rock N Roll Revival, this outstanding concert performance finds Chicago at the top of their game, ripping through “25 Or 6 To 4,” “I’m A Man” and more.
The Chills – BBC Sessions CD/LP (Fire)
Complete BBC John Peel Sessions from the New Zealand alt-pop legends, recorded in 1985, 1987 and 1988.
Clark – Clark CD/2xLP+MP3 (Warp)
Chris Clark follows up 2012’s Iradelphic with his new self-titled full-length release. Clark has taken the techno/rave direction of his Phosphor live show and his recent Superscope’12” and produced an astounding album.
Cockney Rejects – Too Tough To Die: 35 Years Undefeated 2xCD (Come See Me)
Features some of the Cockney Rejects greatest hits and tracks recorded throughout their illustrious career and collects them on this double-disc digipak set. Solid gold punk rock & roll.
Cooly G – Wait ‘Til Night CD/LP (Hyperdub)
Cooly G returns with an album of sensitive, lo-fi bedroom music, it’s lyrics sketching dreamy scenarios of seduction lust and sex. The moody South London house of her debut album Playing Me and her DJ sets has given way to a near-horizontal, sometimes melancholy and highly original take on R&B. The tracks swing effortlessly with no-fuss musical arrangements that are filtered through reggae sound system culture and US R&B in equal amounts, with a slight hint of dark synthpop wound throughout.
AJ Davila y Terror Amor – Beibi CD/Cassette (Burger)
New release stacked with garage punk blasts outta Puerto Rico from members of Davila 666.
Davila 666 – Pocos Años, Muchos Daños CD/Cassette (Burger)
“Known for their ripping live shows, Davila 666 is proof that you don’t have to understand a lyric to feel the f*cking buzz. Garage psych compadres south of the border, it’s a feat not to bang your head along to their unique voice. This one’s packed with all their crowd favorites, and it’s a perfect starting point for the unfamiliar. Rarely do I recommend a ‘greatest hits’ comp, but this one’s an exception.” – Sly Vinyl
Deerhoof – La Isla Bonita CD/LP+MP3 (Polyvinyl)
“Veteran Bay Area spaz-poppers Deerhoof recorded their new album La Isla Bonita live in a garage over one week. God Mode label head Nick Sylvester (who is, full disclosure, my friend) recorded it, and it has a bit more melody and a bit less berserk skronk pyrotechnics than a lot of other Deerhoof records. But this is still very much a Deerhoof album, and the past decade and a half of this band has probably already let you know whether this is something you need in your life” – Stereogum. (Limited initial vinyl copies pressed on gray wax.)
Deptford Goth – Songs CD/LP (PIAS America)
After the groundswell of adoration for his album debut Life After Defo and the live shows that followed, Deptford Goth returns this Autumn with Songs, his second record of intensely slow-burning gems. Where the former was more affiliated with those seamless blenders of dreamy synth-pop, R&B and soul, Songs adds elements of singer-songwriter tradition to his irresistibly yearning electronica.
Ani DiFranco – Allergic To Water CD (Righteous Babe)
Ani’s new album features some of the most subtle music to date wrapped up in lovely white embossed packaging. Throughout the record, DiFranco, her band and a few music guests, create melodies that are lilting and funky, imaginative and personal: so personal that she produced and mixed the record all on her own. Vibes, tones and rhythms constantly change while her band draws on its own expansive palette. Vinyl version due November 18.
The Doobie Brothers – Southbound CD (Sony Nashville/Arista)
Some of country’s biggest stars join The Doobie Brothers with Michael McDonald for all-new recordings of the band’s classic hits. Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Casey James, Charlie Worsham, Chris Young, Jerrod Niemann, Johnnyswim’s Amanda Sudano Ramirez, Love And Theft, Sara Evans, Toby Keith, Tyler Farr, and Zac Brown Band make up the roster of artists choosing their favorite Doobie songs to record with the band, with selected tracks featuring special instrumental contributions from Hunter Hayes and Vince Gill.
Bob Dylan And The Band – The Basement Tapes Raw: The Bootleg Series Vol. 11 2xCD/6xCD (Sony Legacy)
Compiled from meticulously restored original tapes many found only recently – this historic six-disc set is the definitive chronicle of the artist’s legendary 1967 recording sessions with members of his touring ensemble who would later achieve their own fame as The Band. The Basement Tapes Complete brings together, for the first time ever, every salvageable recording from the tapes including recently discovered early gems recorded in the “Red Room” of Dylan’s home in upstate New York. Garth Hudson worked closely with Canadian music archivist and producer Jan Haust to restore the deteriorating tapes to pristine sound, with much of this music preserved digitally for the first time. Double-disc version features highlights from the set. Vinyl version due November 24.
Ronnie Fauss – Built To Break CD/LP (New West/Normal Town)
Fauss, who was described in Vanity Fair as “a cross between Steve Earle and Gram Parsons,” recorded the eleven new songs over five months in almost as many cities: Colleyville, Nashville, Dallas and Chicago. The record finds Fauss trading verses with Old 97s frontman Rhett Miller on “Eighteen Wheels,” a rolling barroom ode to long-distance trucking that simultaneously pays tribute to Fauss’ myriad influences: Hank, Waylon, Willie, Cash, Dylan and Emmylou. The centerpiece may be Fauss’ honest and austere rendition of the beautiful 2013 Phosphorescent track “Song For Zula.”
Filmstrip – Moments Of Matter CD/LP (Exit Stencil)
Though heavily rooted in DIY culture, Filmstrip is a band whose sound has evolved well past their simple punk rock origins. Imagine if the Meat Puppets (another brother band) circa 1985 teamed up with the indie-psych-folk stylings of Pink Mountaintops, and was informed by an upbringing heavily steeped in the Maximumrocknroll ethos.
Fripp & Eno – Live In Paris 28.05.1975 3xCD (Discipline Global Music)
The subject of many poor quality bootlegs, this concert – one of only a handful undertaken by Fripp & Eno – is routinely described as legendary. Hearing the tapes in fully restored audio quality, it’s easy to understand why it attracts such reverence now and perhaps, why the shows attracted such hostility then. No Roxy Music hits, No King Crimson riffs, just a duo sitting in near darkness with a reel-to-reel tape recorder, improvising over the pre-recorded loops with a filmed background projection. Replace the reel-to-reel machine with a couple of laptops/iPads/sequencers and the core of much current live performance from electronica to hip-hop was there some thirty years in advance. At the time, audiences responded to such a glimpse of the future with booing, walkouts and general confusion.
Guano Padano – Americana CD (Ipecac)
New album from the Italian/western trio Guano Padano take their spaghetti western/jazz/swing tunes to a new level. Featuring contributions from Joey from Calexico and author Dan Fante
Guano Padano is Alessandro Asso Stefana, Zeno De Rossi and Danilo Gallo. Their works have been compared to the greats like Fellini, Leona, Coppola and more.
Guns N’ Roses – Appetite For Democracy: Live At The Hard Rock Casino – Las Vegas 2xCD+Blu-ray+T-shirt (Interscope)
They were one of the biggest bands in the world in the late ’80s and pre-grunge early ’90s, but Guns N’ Roses haven’t given fan’s a live concert film since that heyday. These brand-new performances include the hits and key cuts from all their albums plus some killer covers. The Blu-Ray includes the concert in 2D and 3D.
Erin Harpe & The Delta Swingers – Love Whip Blues CD (Vizz Tone)
Erin learned to play delta blues guitar at an early age from her father, Maryland area bluesman Neil Harpe. Erin’s travels brought her an appreciation of world music styles, particularly Afro-beat and reggae. Landing in Boston, she did solo blues gigs, simultaneously started a electro-funk dance band called Lovewhip, and self-released a couple of acoustic blues CDs. A few years ago, Erin formed the Delta Swingers, a deep blues-based group that was also a dance band with a wealth of influences.
Calvin Harris – Motion CD (Sony)
New album from the best-selling DJ, producer and artist. Motion is the follow-up to his pop masterpiece 18 Months that sold over two million albums and 35 million singles worldwide. Motion features the hit singles ”Summer” and ”Blame” (featuring John Newman) plus collaborations with Gwen Stefani, Ellie Goulding, Big Sean, Haim, Alesso, Hurts, R3hab and others.
High Ends – Super Class CD (Dine Alone)
Super Class combines the upbeat pop-rock catchiness that Innes is known for with esoteric synth textures. It was recorded with producer Colin Stewart (Dan Mangan, The New Pornographers) at his Vancouver Island facility. During the sessions, Gold & Youth drummer Jeff Mitchelmore handled percussion, meticulously interweaving vintage drum machine programming with live playing. Louise Burns and New Pornographers member Kathryn Calder contributed backing vocals, while Ladyhawk’s Darcy Hancock laid down guitar.
Huxley – Blurred CD/2xLP+CD (!K7)
“Give a quick listen to Blurred, the debut album from Michael ‘Huxley’ Dodman, and you might think the London producer is aiming to break out of the clubs, perhaps yearning for a fuller taste of success he had with the dance-floor soul of 2013’s Let It Go. Blurred brims with such pop pleasures—shimmering melodies hover over bass-propelled rhythms throughout—and if it’s worked so well for acts like Disclosure, why not for Dodman?” – Resident Advisor
Isis – Oceanic [Reissue/2002] CD (Ipecac)
The classic release from Isis, originally released in 2002, remastered with new artwork.
Jóhann Jóhannsson – The Theory Of Everything [OST] CD (Backlot Music)
Orignal score to the 2014 motion picture by Icelandic composer/producer Johann Johannsson. The Theory Of Everything is a new British film directed by James Marsh and penned by Anthony McCarten. The film was inspired by the memoir Travelling To Infinity: My Life With Stephen by Jane Hawking, which deals with her relationship with her ex-husband theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and his success in physics.
King Crimson – Starless 23xCD+2xDVD-Audio+2xBlu-ray (Discipline Global Music)
Limited to a single pressing run, Starless offers an in-depth overview of King Crimson’s celebrated mid-1970’s live line-up at its most exploratory. Few bands have offered as much variety in material from night to night, and King Crimson’s propensity for improvisation and fondness for playing its newest material – often unreleased on record at the time of performance – is legendary.
Mark Kozelek – Sings Christmas Carols CD (Caldo Verde)
Solo acoustic Christmas songs from our favorite grump.
Larkin Poe – Kin CD (RH Music)
Debut album from Atlanta-based sisters Rebecca and Megan Lovell. Kin was produced by Chris Seefried (Fitz And The Tantrums, Lana Del Rey) in Los Angeles and Damien Lewis (Rihanna, Rita Ora) in Atlanta. Vinyl version due November 24.
Liv Kristine – Vervain CD (Napalm)
Liv Kristine’s fifth overall solo album unfolds as a dark rock masterpiece assembling terrific melodies, enthralling song structures and a world class voice. Haunting tunes, imaginative instrumentation and extraordinary creativity unite into the finest piece of music art eternalized in a perfect sound production.
Les Sins – Michael CD/LP (Company)
Michael is the debut full-length from Les Sins, the dance project of Toro Y Moi’s Chaz Bundick. Inspired by cartoon and movie soundtracks, the largely instrumental album explores classic dance and pop music traditions. Catchy, repetitive vocal hooks gel with beats and synth work influenced by house, techno, French electronic, and ‘90s hip-hop production. Bundick made the album over two years and recorded everything in his home studio. Michael follows a 12” on Carpark Records and two singles for Jialong. The LP is the first release on Company Records, a partnership between Chaz and Carpark.
Lia Mice – I Love You CD/LP (Old Flame)
Lia Mice is the experimental pop project of Eleanor C Mice. After spending her teens touring Australia in punk and soul groups she lurked the Brooklyn noise scene for half a decade, playing anywhere from DIY house parties to Manhattan’s Museum of Arts and Design. Inspired by a tour of Tokyo where she performed in a temple to monks, Lia Mice’s 2012 debut LP Happy New Year (originally released under the moniker Happy New Year) hid it’s dark pop melodies in a cinematic landscapes of chimes, bells and vintage synths delivered at such hypnotically slow tempos that Time Out Tokyo coined the genre ‘narcoleptic pop’ in her honor. Lia Mice’s second solo album, and first experiment in danceable tempos, I Love You was inspired by new music uncovered during in her first year living in France: in the grooves of yé-yé singles; on the dance floors of converted boat-venues; in the theme songs of classic French cinema.
Theophilus London – Vibes CD (WB)
New album from the Trinidad born and Brooklyn raised New Yorker. London was executive produced by Kanye West, art design by Virgil Abloh (Donda) and photography by Karl Lagerfeld. The album features appearances by Kanye West, Leon Ware, Devonte Hynes and more.
Lordi – Scare Force One CD (AFM)
Take the shock rock artists of the ‘70s like Alice Cooper and bring it to the next level. That’s exactly what Lordi do since their very beginning with catchy hard rock hymns with strong hooks and infectious melodies.
Noberto Lobo – Fornalha CD/LP+7”+MP3 (Three Four)
Norberto Lobo is a mind-bending musician, modulating psychedelic ideas to the guitar. Fornalha moves through the listening spaces like a New Orleans processional gathering and dropping sounds, as it winds through different chambers. Bowed guitars that sound more like bright cellos, a prepared guitar that sounds like a dry plastic lute and some sweet vocal oohing reminiscent of Brian Eno’s fried-orchestral singing in Gavin Bryars’ ensemble.
Major League – There’s Nothing Wrong With Me CD/LP+MP3 (No Sleep)
Sophomore release from New Jersey pop-punk band. Vinyl version pressed on transparent blue wax.
Mariache El Bronx – Mariache El Bronx III CD/LP (ATO)
The third release by this great punk/Latin/mariachi band. Born out of a desire to challenge themselves musically, Mariachi El Bronx is the alter ego of Los Angeles punk band the Bronx. Conceived in 2006, the idea came about when the Bronx were asked to play an acoustic set and, rather than simply pare down their sound, they took their music in a whole new direction, moving away from hardcore and exploring Latin sounds. (Initial vinyl copies pressed on day-glo orange wax.)
Paul McCartney & Wings – Venus And Mars [Reissue/1975] 2xCD/2xCD+DVD/2xLP (Hear Music)
Paul McCartney & Wings – At The Speed Of Sound [Reissue/1976] 2xCD/2xCD+DVD/2xLP (Hear Music)
The newest releases in the Paul McCartney Archive Collection – remastered and expanded. Available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe adds a bonus DVD featuring previously unreleased material.
Memphis Dawls – Rooted To The Bone CD (Madjack)
In recent years, Memphis Dawls have served at the vanguard of a burgeoning Memphis folk scene. The core group is made up of three veteran musicians who have played with several successful local bands. Brought together by their similar tastes in melody and style, and perhaps with a slight nod from fate, Holly Cole (guitars, vocals), Jana Misener (cello, vocals), and Krista Wroten (viola, mandolin, accordion, vocals) deliver hauntingly romantic and lyrical folk music with a modern flair.
Bette Midler – It’s The Girls CD (WB)
Midler covers a jaunty and celebratory selection of some of the greatest harmonies originally performed by girl groups such as The Ronettes, The Boswell Sisters, The Andrew Sisters, The Chiffons as well as Motown acts like Martha Reeves and The Vandellas, and The Marvelettes, among others.
Thelonious Monk – Round Midnight: Complete Blue Note Singles 1947-52 2xCD (Blue Note)
This double-disc set features all of Thelonious Monk’s Blue Note recordings in their original 78 RPM sequence of release for the first time in more than 60 years. Thelonious Monk’s first recordings in the late 1940s were for Blue Note Records and they signaled a new kind of Blue Note as the label was evolving from an outlet for boogie woogie and old time jazz into a flag-waver for hard bop. These recordings, which include the first version of Monk’s classic composition, “’Round Midnight” (originally known as “’Round About Midnight”), were released on a series of fifteen 78 RPM singles.
Monsieurs – Monsieurs CD/LP (Slovenly)
Indisputably rockin’ rollin’ noise with sharp aesthetics, aggression and a perfect amount of pop sensibility, making this platter just palatable enough for those too timid to plunge into the sonic cesspool of lead singer’s Anthony Macbain’s other band, Tunnel Of Love.
Scott Morgan – Revolutionary Action 2xCD (Easy Action)
Collects all three solo albums from ex-Rationals, Guardian Angel, Sonics Rendezvous Band member, remastered on a double-CD.
Myhrding – Nordens Morkaste Kapitel (Unexplored)
New album from the Swedish black metal band.
The Ocean Party – Soft Focus CD (Jigsaw)
The Ocean Party has been around for a few years, but have never strayed outside of Australia. A wonderfully romantic treat, these 11 songs flow along quite nicely, each breezy tune melting away as another one begins. Musical counterparts include the Ladybug Transistor and the Zebras (coincidentally, also from Melbourne), with their songs full of strummy guitars and memorable melodies, yet still steeped in ambiance, courtesy of the ever-present keyboards and synths.
William Onyeabor – CD Boxset 9xCD (Luaka Bop)
William Onyeabor – LP Boxset 1 6xLP (Luaka Bop)
William Onyeabor – LP Boxset 2 5xLP (Luaka Bop)
Nine-CD box set with a 48pg booklet featuring the albums the elusive Nigerian synth-funk pioneer self-released between 1977-1985. Also available across two separate volumes on vinyl.
Over The Rhine – Blood Oranges In The Snow CD (Great Speckled Dog)
“Over The Rhine’s Christmas songs might be the best soundtrack since A Charlie Brown Christmas for feeling melancholy and lovesick in December. The music practically begs to be mused upon over one hot drink or another.” — Seattle Weekly
Psychostick – IV: Revenge Of The Vengeance CD (Rock Ridge)
New album from the Chicago, IL based comedy rock kings. IV is the follow up to 2011’s Space Vampires VS Zombie Dinosaurs In 3-D and 2013 singles “Obey The Beard” and “Dogs Like Socks,” which also appear on the new album along with tons of new tracks, plus guest appearances by Bill Manspeaker (founder of Green Jellö), Neil Patterson and Rob Nichols from Downtown Brown and many many more comedy sing-a-longs ready for the road.
Pvrs – White Noise CD (Velocity/Rise)
After witnessing their performance on the 2013 Vans Warped Tour, Rise quickly worked to sign this Boston pop/punk trio.
Redinho – Redinho CD/LP (Numbers)
Glasgow label Numbers put out their most extensive release to date, the self-titled debut album from Redinho, a producer with a knack for creating, bumping, colorful electronic music with plenty of funked-up energy. The highs are plentiful and giddy: “Jacuzzi” and “Playing With Fire” grinding hard with gleeful spirit, “Bubbles” seeing him concoct an enveloping, silk-smooth cocoon, “Making Up The Rules” throwing heady R&B shapes, and “Going Nowhere” an enlivening dance floor powerhouse. It’s an album without an inch of fat and one that sounds vital and full of life from start to finish.
Gruff Rhys – American Interior CD/LP (Turnstile Music)
Fourth solo album from the Welsh singer/songwriter and Super Furry Animals frontman. American Interior documents his latest musical road trip, retracing the fantastical American exploits of his distant relative, 18th-century explorer John Evans. The album features 13 phenomenal songs inspired by Evans original journey.
Scout Ripley – Image Fiction CD (Aerial Ballet)
Violinist Claire Watkins loop-based experimental pop is fleshed out with an army of synthesizers, guitars, and percussion, taking this former bedroom project to new heights. Peppered with film, TV, and literary references throughout, the title of this EP is a reference to David Foster Wallace’s landmark essay E Unibus Pluram, wherein Image Fiction is described as a post-post-modernist reaction in ‘90s fiction to pop culture centric, reference-based literature. You’ll hear lyrical points of reference running the gamut from The Seventh Seal to Arrested Development. Underneath it all though, you’ll hear the unique vision of a new band that is more than the sum of its parts.
Steve Roach/Jorge Reyes – The Ancestor Circle CD (Projekt)
Conjuring images of a primal futurism, this alchemical blending-of-sound is a ceremonial offering to the forgotten gods. The Ancestor Circle is a new tribal-ambient-electronic collaboration, the first recording from Roach & Reyes since Vine ~ Bark & Spore.
Nell Robinson & The Rose Of No-Man’s Land – Nell Robinson & The Rose Of No-Man’s Land CD (Nell Robinson Music)
Nell Robinson is a singer/songwriter who has been described variously as ”a modern-day Patsy Cline” and one of the ”freshest voices in roots music.” Produced by Grammy-winning producer Joe Henry, the new songs weave together stories from the Revolutionary War to the present, inspired by 250 years of letters, stories and poetry from Nell’s rural Alabama family. Includes guest appearances from Kris Kristofferson, Ramblin’ Jack Elliot, Jim Nunally, Kathy Baker and others.
Rolling Stones – From The Vault: Hampton Coliseum (Live In 1981) 2xCD+DVD/2xCD+Blu-ray (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
The Rolling Stones American Tour in 1981 was the most successful tour of that year taking a then record $50 million dollars in ticket sales. The tour was in support of the critically and commercially successful Tattoo You album. There were fifty dates on the tour which ran from Philadelphia at the end of September through to Hampton, Virginia on the 18th and 19th of December. The show on December 18th, which was also Keith Richards birthday, was the first ever music concert to be broadcast on television as a pay-per-view event. The footage has now been carefully restored with remixed/remastered audio by Bob Clearmountain for this first official release of the show. (Also available as single disc DVD and Blu-ray editions. Vinyl version due November 24.
Saint Saviour – In The Seams CD (Surface Area)
Becky Jones aka Saint Saviour is the former lead singer with The RGBs and fronted and co-wrote the singles on Groove Armada’s Grammy nominated album Black Light. Collaborating on this album with Bill Ryder-Jones (The Coral), it is a marked departure from her 2012 debut Uncut – stripping back and laying bare the beautiful song-craft of an artist clearly in her prime. The result is a selection of twelve delicate and heart-felt, folk-infused tracks woven into In The Seams – full of lush strings, softly plucked guitars and tender vocals. Vinyl version due November 18.
The Skull – For Those Who Are Asleep CD/LP (Tee Pee)
The Skull is the new band featuring original members Eric Wagner (vocals) and Jeff ”Oly” Olson (drums) of American doom metal legends Trouble alongside long-time Trouble bassist Ron Holzner, guitarist Lothar Keller and former Pentagram guitarist Matt Goldsborough. The group’s debut, For Those Which Are Asleep, features ten tracks of elemental heavy metal.
Spain – Sargent Place CD/LP (Dine Alone)
“For Josh Haden and Spain there has been something of a reawakening – the wonderful 2012 return, The Soul Of Spain hinted back to the band’s earliest work but clearly lit something of a fire. For, swiftly in that record’s wake we received The Morning Becomes Eclectic Session – an EP-length set of (further) stripped-back versions of the Soul Of Spain material and other favorites, such as the wonderful Spiritual back from 1995’s Blue Moods Of Spain album. And here now we have brand new full-length, Sargent Place. This record carries on in much the same vein as Soul Of Spain, that fire not only re-lit but set to slow-burn as opener ‘Love At First Sight’ glides in on a glorious waft of bass, a nearly-creepy song forming, slowly, purposefully gathering itself up behind the breathy vocal.” – Off The Tracks
Springtime Carnivore – Springtime Carnival CD (Autumn Tone)
“Take a step backwards to the days of carefree wanderlust. Inhale a sense of joyous pop music with a touch of old-school dance to grasp another generation. Complications fade away. Things become clear. Worries diminish and you are brought into a world of unapologetic vibrancy. Springtime Carnivore (aka Greta Morgan) delivers just that in her self-titled debut album. Springtime Carnival is like a storybook of the sorts—full of wonderment and musical notes that take on different characters” – Sound And Silence. Vinyl version due November 10.
The SqueeGees – Vegetable Soup CD (Little Record Company)
As one of the most popular children’s music groups, the SqueeGees have long been a favorite of young kids and their parents. The Redondo Beach band has been producing upbeat, family friendly tunes for a number years.
Streets Of Laredo – Volumes I & II CD (Dine Alone)
Streets of Laredo is a sing-a-long collision of jangling harmonies, stomping percussion, horns, guitars, and more crazy instruments than you can shake a sampler at.
T-Pain – Presents The Happy Hour: The Greatest Hits CD (RCA)
Hits collection from Tallahassee, Florida native T-Pain. Includes guest appearances from Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, Ludacris, Yung Joc, B.o.B and many more.
Teyana Taylor – VII CD (G.O.O.D. Music/Def Jam)
The multiple talents of high profile young singer-songwriter, designer, dancer/choreographer, actress, and Harlem native Teyana Taylor all come together this summer and fall, starting with last summer’s release of her debut single, ”Maybe” featuring Yo Gotti and Pusha T. In addition to singing on Kanye’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Teyana has collaborated on projects with a Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown, Willow Smith, Jadakiss, Cam’ron, Jim Jones, and Beyonce, to name a few. VII brings you into the world of this hip-hop tomboy with an amazing voice. Available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe includes bonus tracks.
Trophy Eyes – Mend, Move On CD (Hopeless)
New album from the Aussie punks. Vinyl version due November 10.
TV Smith – I Delete CD (Drumming Monkey)
16th album from the iconic British singer/songwriter and former mainman in punk pioneers The Adverts.
The Vamps – Meet The Vamps CD (Island)
Debut studio album by British pop rock band. Meet The Vamps features the singles ”Somebody To You” featuring Demi Lovato, ”Can We Dance”, ”Oh Cecilia” featuring Shawn Mendes and more.
Various Artists – Black Fire! New Spirits! Radical And Revolutionary Jazz In The USA 1957-82 2xCD/3xLP+MP3 (Soul Jazz)
Captures the radicalism and self-determination of pioneering jazz artists in the 1960s and early 1970s. During this era, jazz music in the USA was in an almost constant state of revolution with the music and lives of African-American artists radicalized by civil rights, the avant-garde, Black Power and a new spiritual awakening. At the start of the 1960s, jazz entered a unique new period of revolution as African-American musicians re-defined the art form in the context of the civil rights movement, afro-centric rhythm and thought and an ideology of black economic empowerment. Features John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Pharoah Sanders, Albert Ayler, Ornette Coleman, Roland Kirk, Art Ensemble of Chicago, Alice Coltrane, Eric Dolphy, Leon Thomas, Cecil Taylor and more.
Various Artists – Hyperdub 10.4 2xCD (Hyperdub)
Final episode in the series returns to the club, this time focused on house, garage and techno. Features one disc of new and recent material, paired with a second full of bangers from the Hyperdub canon in recent years.
Various Artists [Groove Armada] – Late Night Tales Presents Automatic Soul CD/LP (Night Time Story)
It is 1983 and you’ve just stepped into your Ford Capri with your girlfriend Julie. You live in Harlow, but in your head you’re really somewhere near Salou in Spain, next to your yacht. But the thing you really love is soul and they play nothing but at Sups in Loughton. OK, so It s not 1983 at all. It’s 2014, but listening to this electrofied soul, will put you back in the zone. Tom Findlay, one half of Grammy-nominated Groove Armada, has put this collection together: a stamp of authenticity in itself. Tom has also put a few of these through the edit wringer, reworking many of the tunes for maximum towelling sockability.
Various Artists – Uncompromising Expression: Singles Collection 5xCD (Blue Note)
To celebrate the 75th anniversary of Blue Note, the label has released a comprehensive 5xCD singles box set. Opening with the label’s very first signing – the pianist Meade Lux Lewis – and closing 75 years later with the beautifully progressive sounds of Derrick Hodge, Uncompromising Expression is a complete overview of the one of the most inspired and eclectic catalogs of jazz. This collection features jazz greats from Thelonious Monk to Art Blakey to John Coltrane to Donald Byrd, Cassandra Wilson, Norah Jones and more. Packaged in a beautiful slipcase, the box set also includes a 48-page booklet featuring a complete discography of the 75 titles included in this set.
Sonny Vincent & Spite – Spiteful CD/LP (Ultramafic)
Three years in the making, four rock & roll bastards get together to f*ck shit up. Totally on fire, call the mother f*cking fire department now, these bastards have a vengeance. Features Steve MacKay (Stooges), Rat Scabies (The Damned), Sonny Vincent (Testors), and Glen Matlock (Sex Pistols). Pressed on translucent blue vinyl.
Virginia Wing – Measures Of Joy CD/LP (Fire)
Measures Of Joy is a work of psychedelic majesty that avoids the rockist trappings that many contemporary bands fall into; speaking to everyday anxiety and isolation and in contrast, seeking to evoke an inner world of pastoral fortification. The startlingly realized collection draws influence from the radiophonic sounds of Broadcast, the kosmische wonder of Cluster and the rhythmic propulsion of This Heat whilst never directly emulating any particular style.
Wax Taylor – Phonovisions Symphonic Orchestra 2xCD+DVD/4xLP+MP3 (Le Plan)
A multifaceted and fiercely independent artist, Wax Tailor established himself in just a few years as one of the leading voices of the post hip-hop and downtempo scenes. With three albums under his belt, as well as over 400 concerts in over 50 countries, he erupted from France to become an international phenomenon. Phonovisions was recorded live with over 50 musicians on stage.
Wild Smiles – Always Tomorrow CD/LP (Sunday Best)
Debut LP from the Winchester garage rock outfit. Spanning 11 tracks, the resulting album addresses “issues that most other young bands are too scared or ignorant of to approach,” according to a press release. It goes on to say that “the album traces a thematic arc of growing up and getting out, the struggles of the debt-heavy, priced-out youth generation.”
Neil Young – Storytone CD/2xCD (Reprise)
Storytone was recorded live in the studio with a 92-piece orchestra, choir and Young. He took a different approach with this record, recording the songs on his own, in a solo-setting to creating compelling versions of the songs in a new light, resulting in a deeply-personal emotional listening experience throughout the record. Available in Regular and Deluxe editions. Deluxe includes a version of the album recorded solo and a version recorded with the full orchestra. Vinyl version due December 16.
DVDs + Blu-ray:
Big Star – Live In Memphis DVD (Omnivore)
Big Star’s only known professionally filmed show in its entirety. Contains Big Star classics like “Thank You Friends,” “September Gurls,” and “The Ballad Of El Goodo,” Chris Bell’s “I Am The Cosmos,” and covers of T.Rex, The Kinks, Todd Rundgren and more, performed by Big Star: Alex Chilton, Jody Stephens, and Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow from The Posies.
Eric Clapton – Planes, Trains And Eric DVD/Blu-ray (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
Planes, Trains And Eric follows Eric Clapton and his band on the Far and Middle Eastern leg of his 2014 World Tour. The film features 13 full length performances from the tour intercut with interviews with Eric Clapton and the band members, rehearsal and soundcheck footage, travel by trains and planes, presentations and fly on the wall filming of all the many aspects of being on the road with Eric Clapton. 155 minutes.
Genesis – Three Sides Live DVD/Blu-ray (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
Three Sides Live was filmed in November 1981 on the Abacab tour in North America and was originally released on VHS to coincide with the live album of the same name. It has only ever been released on DVD in the limited edition box set The Movie Box 1981-2007. Originally filmed in 16mm, the footage has now been fully restored and is being reissued as a standalone DVD and Blu-ray for the first time. The show focuses on tracks from the Duke and Abacab albums and the tracks are intercut with behind the scenes footage and interviews with the band members.
Rolling Stones – From The Vault: Hampton Coliseum (Live In 1981) DVD/Blu-ray (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
The Rolling Stones American Tour in 1981 was the most successful tour of that year taking a then record $50 million dollars in ticket sales. The tour was in support of the critically and commercially successful Tattoo You album. There were fifty dates on the tour which ran from Philadelphia at the end of September through to Hampton, Virginia on the 18th and 19th of December. The show on December 18th, which was also Keith Richards birthday, was the first ever music concert to be broadcast on television as a pay-per-view event. The footage has now been carefully restored with remixed/remastered audio by Bob Clearmountain for this first official release of the show.
This Week’s Vinyl Exclusives:
Belle & Sebastian – The Boy With The Arab Strap [Reissue/1998] LP+MP3 (Matador)
Belle & Sebastian – Push Barman To Open Old Wounds [Reissue/2005] LP+MP3 (Matador)
Belle & Sebastian – The Third Eye Center [Reissue/2013] LP+MP3 (Matador)
Second round of Belle & Sebastian vinyl reissues, packaged in resealable mylar bags with customized obi strip.
Boards Of Canada – Hi Scores [Reissue/1996] LP (Skam)
Reissue of 1996 mini-album, re-recorded and remastered from the original DAT tapes.
The Bunny Gang – Thrive LP (Hardline Entertainment)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. New full-length from Nathen Maxwell, long-time bassist of Flogging Molly, produced by Ryan Hewitt (Sheryl Crow, The Avett Brothers).
Can – Future Days [Reissue/1973] LP (Mute)
Can – Soon Over Babaluma [Reissue/1974] LP (Mute)
Vinyl reissues of the Krautrock pioneer’s fifth and sixth studio albums.
Colin Cowan & The Elastic Stars – Fall Paths LP (Kingfisher Bluez)
First installment in a series of four season-themed LPs from this Vancouver-based songwriter. Sounds of Bowie and Bolan shine through a haze of psychedelic folk. A florescent cup of warm nostalgic soup fit for any contemporary starchild or drifter.
Julie Cruise – Floating Into The Night [Reissue/1989] LP (Plain)
HQ-180gm vinyl reissue of Cruise’s 1989 album, featuring songs written and produced by composer Angelo Badalamenti and David Lynch. Essential for any Twin Peaks fan.
Dada Plan – A Dada Plan Is Free LP (Kingfisher Bluez)
A Dada Plan Is Free is a trip hop-influenced orchestral noise/storm rock album polluted with synths. Sounds like ’80 outsider pop, with retro drum machine programming and synth sounds from a Roland Juno-60. There is a deeper meaning at work here, a haunting, dystopian tinge to its chill metropolitan grooves inspired by Brian Eno and Robert Wyatt.
Dinosaur Feathers – Control LP (Ernest Jenning)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Brooklyn’s Dinosaur Feathers look to Janet Jackson for spiritual guidance on their groove-laden third album Control. Insistent drum machines and lithe pulsing bass lines meet shimmering synths, coked-out horns and soulful vocals, dragging 1983 pop/R&B kicking and screaming into the new millennium.
Dirty Beaches – Stateless LP (Zoo Music)
On the four-song album Stateless, Zhang Hungtai further explores the instrumental side of his identity that has been present since his first release in 2007. The album is a reflection on Zhang Hungtai’s upbringing in various locales (Taipei/Honolulu/Montreal) and the past two years of living and drifting in Europe. The title reflects several years of reflection on associated ideas like Diaspora, borders and hybridism.
The Dismemberment Plan – Change [2001] LP (Partisan)
HQ-180gm vinyl reissue in a gatefold sleeve with a 12-page booklet containing art, photography and lyrics to all 11 songs-including the lyrics to “Ellen And Ben,” which was omitted from the original CD version.
Peter Escott – The Long O LP (Bedroom Suck)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Known best for his work in Tasmanian freak-rock outfit The Native Cats, long-time Australian poet and sometimes stand-up comedian Peter Escott has recently put to tape a magnificent solo opus, The Long O. Featuring no other performers and limited to the only instruments Escott knows how to play – piano, synth, melodica, and a solitary, awkwardly self-taught guitar chord – the album is as haunting as it is direct, with Escott’s voice lending a reserved gravity to the often soaring arrangements.
Full Sun – Itch LP/Cassette (Let’s Pretend)
12-song debut from Full Sun, driven by drummer turned songwriter Jeff Grant. On Itch Grant renews some of the straightforward power-pop of his other band, The Sands, and the punk spirit of his first songwriting venture Pink Razors.
Future Brown – Wanna Party/World’s Mine 12” (Warp)
Experimental electronic supergroup Future Brown (composed of Fatima Al Qadiri, Asma Maroof and Daniel Pineda of Nguzunguzu, and J-Cush of Lit City Trax) drops their debut EP. First up, Chicago vocalist Tink adds her unflustered rhyming to the distilled, grime spine on “Wanna Party,” with her vocal flow forming a deadly interplay with the eastern chimes whilst 3D Na’Tee joins in on the remix for an extra dosage of attitude. On the flip, Ruff Sqwad members Prince Rapid and Dirty Danger go verse for verse with former Roll Deep member Roachee, offering their breathless lyrics to the panpipe melodies and rapid-fire ricocheting claps.
Gino And The Goons – Shake It! LP/Cassette (Slovenly)
This is the album you wanted to be budget rock. This is the album you wanted to be dumb as f*ck. This is the album that fails on both levels. This is the album that proves Ramones worship doesn’t have to be predictable or generic. This is the album that proves that rock & roll doesn’t have to be a fashion, and that musical style rules supreme.
Hieroglyphic Being And The Configurative Or Modular Me Trio – The Seer Of Cosmic Visions 2xLP (Planet Mu)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Producer and boss of Mathematics records, Chicago’s Jamal Moss aka Hieroglyphic Being is a one-off musical explorer. Jamal’s music takes cues from the EBM and house that played a huge part in the city’s musical underground in the late eighties and early nineties, notably Ron Hardy and Adonis, but also Industrial, avant-jazz and noise.
Iceage – Plowing Into The Field Of Love LP+MP3 (Matador)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Channeling the rage and emotion of their tempestuous early releases into finely honed musicianship, Plowing Into The Field Of Love features piano, mandolin, viola and organ atop Johan Suurballe-Wieth s razor-sharp guitars and the lolloping, synchronized rhythm section of Jacob Tvilling Pless and Dan Kjær Nielsen. The record has a clear, uncompressed sound, and Elias Bender Rønnenfelt s desperate vocals are out front, nakedly accountable for the words.
Ken Jennings – She’s My Rushmore 7” (Kingfisher Bluez)
Thrashy emo punk from the suburbs of Vancouver’s DIY scene that echoes the heartache of a generation raised on The Promise Ring and countless late-night TV series marathons.
Philip Johnson – Youth In Mourning [Reissue/1982] LP+MP3 (Superior Viaduct)
Johnson is a lost figure in early industrial music/UK cassette culture. This is the first-time reissue of sole LP release from 1982. For fans of Cabaret Voltaire, John Bender and The Shadow Ring.
Kode9 & The Spaceape – Killing Season 12” (Hyperdub)
Hyperdub boss Kode9 and regular collaborator The Spaceape return to the label for joint EP. According to the press release, “The emotional, spiritual and psychological effects of living with illness and the “unknown” are dissected wryly, but often with unforgiving brutality in this new batch of songs.”
Korallreven – Second Comin’ LP (Cascine)
Korallreven’s second album features guest collaborations by Japanese legend Cornelius, Maria Linden of I Break Horses and the Tensta Gospel Choir.
The Liminanas – Crystal Anis [Reissue/2012] LP (HoZac)
The sophomore LP from this breakthrough French combo is back in print. Crystal Anis is brimming with humming, fuzz-filled effervescent pop. It’s a slice of modern French Ye-Ye gone underground, conjuring a dimly-lit atmosphere where the long lost transcendent sounds of The Factory intersperse with modern noir nuances to unbelievable effect.
Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness – Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness LP (10 Spot/Vanguard)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Andrew McMahon In the Wilderness is the latest project from the Jack’s Mannequin/Something Corporate leader. Features the single “Cecilia And The Satellite.”
Mono – The Last Dawn LP (Temporary Residence)
Mono – Rays Of Darkness LP (Temporary Residence)
Released last week on CD – now available on vinyl. Two brand new companion studio albums by Japanese experimental rock group. Recorded simultaneously yet conceptually and creatively disparate, the two act as both opposing and complementary sides to a story. The Last Dawn is the “lighter” of the two, thematically and melodically, drawing on an array of influences from minimalist film score to vintage shoegaze. Rays Of Darkness is billed as the band’s blackest album ever, a collection of scorched riffs, doom rhythms, and an unexpected contribution from post-hardcore pioneer Tetsu Fukagawa of Envy.
Only Wolf – Chemicals LP (Kingfisher Bluez)
Taking his name from a terrifying encounter with a pack of hungry wolves, Sean Parker’s debut LP as Only Wolf is a sprawling, late night drive of a record that feels precise, organic, and infinitely spaced out. Incorporating the natural sounds of the countryside (crashing waves, clinking cowbells, and creaking trees) and armed with an MPC1000 drum machine and guitar, creating a sound that feels natural and otherworldly at the same time.
Outrageous Cherry – The Digital Age LP+MP3 (Burger)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. A new set of rock & roll gems from Detroit power pop legends.
Portastatic – The Summer Of The Shark [2003] LP+MP3 (Merge)
Mac McCaughan, co-founder of Merge Records and frontman of the band Superchunk, began recording solo albums under the name Portastatic in the early ‘90s. Beginning with this album, Portastatic evolved from a lo-fi side project to become McCaughan?s main focus throughout Superchunk’s long hiatus in the early ‘00s. Recorded in Chapel Hill NC, The Summer Of The Shark included contributions from Janet Weiss (Wild Flag, Quasi, Sleater-Kinney), Tony Crow (Lambchop), Margaret White (Versus, Matt Pond PA), Matthew McCaughan (Bon Iver, Hiss Golden Messenger), Aaron Oliva, and John Plymale. White vinyl.
Joey Ramone – Don’t Worry About Me [Reissue/2002] LP (Sanctuary)
Digitally remastered reissue of the out of print 2002 debut solo album from the late, legendary Joey Ramone. Features the Joey’s cover of Louis Armstrong’s “What A Wonderful World.” Guest appearances from Marky Ramone (drums on six tracks), The Damned’s Captain Sensible, Jerry Only, and Dr. Chud.
SGNLS – 2 LP (FDH)
Have you ever thought about what it might sound like if Hawkwind recruited Genesis P. Orrigdge and members of The Units into the band? Or if Kraftwerk merged w/members of Pink Floyd and Crass to work on a concept record together? Meet SGNLS, who truly blur the lines of synth-punk, industrial, psych, and krautrock while still holding a pop sensibility.
Sick Thoughts – Fat Kid With A 10inch 10” (Slovenly)
The nastiest recording yet from this pudgy, pimple faced f*ck. Channeling GG & The Jabbers and Japanese noise with heavy negatory spirit on each track, this is a sonically screwed and puberty drenched hatful of hateful punk rock sputum.
Skinny Kids – Strangers 7” (Kingfisher Bluez)
Four garage-pop reverb freakouts centering on the theme of “strangers.” Deserts, gypsies, highways, and some serious Carlos Castaneda vibes.
Soundtrack – Forrest Gump: The Soundtrack [Reissue/1994] 3xLP (SRC Vinyl)
32 American classics on HQ-180gm red, white, and blue vinyl.
Spacemen 3 – Live At The New Morning, Geneva, 5.18.89 LP (Mental Groove)
Sonic Boom concedes in his sleeve notes “the set presented here, is as it was… except the show was twice this length. We tuned and smoked for almost as long as we played.” It’s a strong set most notably for the half-hour rendition of “Suicide” that takes up the entirety of side B. It’s a seething, pulsating kraut-psych monster.
Strength Of Materials – Occam’s Depilatory 7” (Kingfisher Bluez)
Debut single featuring Ford Pier (D.O.A., Neko Case) — a unique string quartet sounding like Mark E. Smith going orchestral. Weird, yelping dissonance, precise soaring melody, and pop culture-curmudgeon lyrics.
SW/MM/NG – Feel Not Bad LP (Old Flame)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. “Feel Not Bad brings surprisingly bright summer pop from the heart of the country. SW/MM/NG’s sound is comparable to other popular alt-rock notables. Lead singer Brian Kupillas’s singing style is very similar to The Walkmen’s Hamilton Leithauser. Despite this apparent resemblance, SW/MM/NG maintains individuality. The songs pull different punches from the typical surf anthems of summer. Where most insert high-pitched keyboard solos, SW/MM/NG brings in spacy synth touches, which heighten the ambience of youthful wonder.” – LSU Revielle
Tomorrow’s Tulips – When LP+MP3 (Burger)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Beautifully bummed-out chiller pop.
Tres Mission – Stigmata 2xLP (Big Dada)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl.
Twerps – Back To You b/w Always Waiting 7”+MP3 (Merge)
This single quickly follows the band’s Underlay EP and precedes their second full-length Range Anxiety, due in January. Non-album B-side.
Ultramarine – Every Man & Woman Is A Star [Reissue/1991] 2xLP (Rough Trade)
This album offers a mesh of acoustic textures underpinned by a sometimes dubby, sometimes upfront beat. It’s a lavish mix of light yet infectious rhythms and mellow vibes, recalling lazy afternoons and bright summer seascapes. Largely instrumental, the album also features lyric snatches from Kevin Ayers and Robert Wyatt.
Various Artists – Ghoul’s Night Out Volume 1 LP (Simpletone)
Various Artists – Ghoul’s Night Out Volume 2 LP (Simpletone)
Obscure ‘50s rockers with a ghoulish theme.
Various Artists – I’m Just Like You” Sly’s Stone Flower 1969-70 2xLP (Light In The Attic)
Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. In 1970, The Family Stone were at the peak of their popularity, but the maestro Sly Stone had already moved his head to a completely different space. The first evidence of Sly’s musical about-turn was revealed by the small catalog of his new label, Stone Flower: a pioneering, peculiar, minimal electro-funk sound that unfolded over just four 7” singles. Stone Flower’s releases were credited to their individual artists, but each had Sly’s design and musicianship stamped into the grooves–and the words “Written by Sylvester Stewart/Produced and arranged by Sly Stone” on the sticker. Set up by Stone’s manager David Kapralik with distribution by Atlantic Records, Stone Flower was, predictably, a family affair.
Veruca Salt – American Thighs [Reissue/1994] LP (Minty Fresh)
Influential ’90s indie rockers Veruca Salt reissue their debut album, American Thighs, for a 20th anniversary vinyl edition. Produced by Brad Wood (Liz Phair, Smashing Pumpkins, Placebo), the album launched the singles “Seether.” “Number One Blind,” and “Victorla.”
Whirr/Nothing – Split LP (Run For Cover)
Whirr’s signature atmospheric haze enthralls more than ever in what seems like a nine-minute dream. Their masterful control of soundscapes is matched only by an intensity that their shoegazing predecessors could only wish to achieve. Nothing’s contribution is a full-on aural assault: the two songs are aggressive, yet harmonious.
Cassettes:
AJ Davila y Terror Amor – Beibi (Burger)
New release stacked with garage punk blasts outta Puerto Rico from members of Davila 666.
Davila 666 – Pocos Años, Muchos Daños (Burger)
“Known for their ripping live shows, Davila 666 is proof that you don’t have to understand a lyric to feel the f*cking buzz. Garage psych compadres south of the border, it’s a feat not to bang your head along to their unique voice. This one’s packed with all their crowd favorites, and it’s a perfect starting point for the unfamiliar. Rarely do I recommend a ‘greatest hits’ comp, but this one’s an exception.” – Sly Vinyl
Full Sun – Itch (Let’s Pretend)
12-song debut from Full Sun, driven by drummer turned songwriter Jeff Grant. On Itch Grant renews some of the straightforward power-pop of his other band, The Sands, and the punk spirit of his first songwriting venture Pink Razors.
Gino And The Goons – Shake It! (Slovenly)
This is the album you wanted to be budget rock. This is the album you wanted to be dumb as f*ck. This is the album that fails on both levels. This is the album that proves Ramones worship doesn’t have to be predictable or generic. This is the album that proves that rock & roll doesn’t have to be a fashion, and that musical style rules supreme.
Godflesh – Decline & Fall (Hydra Head)
Godflesh – A World Lit By Fire (Hydra Head)
Recently released on CD and vinyl – now available on cassette. A World Lit By Fire is Justin K Brodrick’s first Godflesh full-length album release since 2001’s Hymns. Minimal, brutal, dissonant, driven by machines yet paradoxically dominated by organic and harsh down tuned guitars and bass, clean dub inflected vocals offset against harsh raging minimal shouts, and this is not to forget the worship of the omnipresent groove.
Moss Lime – July First (Fixture)
The debut EP from this Montreal-based post-punk trio shows remarkable originality and freshness for a band’s first release, with a deceptive simplicity and equal-footedness to the sparse arrangements. Fans of late ‘70s/early-‘80s punk and no wave bands like The Slits and Neo Boys will appreciate their melodic minimalism, idiosyncratic vocals, and strong sense of play.
The Spanish Candles – Triple Date In Paradise (Infinity Cat)
40 minutes of “haphazardly handed three chord pop gems,” (Nashville Scene) a la The Replacements and Pavement, sprinkled with ‘60s surf-rock instrumentals.
Book:
The Pitchfork Review – Issue 4
The fourth edition of the perfect-bound quarterly music publication featuring contributions from the Pitchfork staff and edited by JC Gabel of Stop Smiling. Combining new long-form feature stories, photography, illustrations, and other ephemera with selected recent pieces from P4K, Issue 4 features a profile of Courtney Barnett, an oral history of legendary EDM night club NASA, stories from David Bowie’s time in Berlin, a limited edition 7″ featuring unreleased material from Zola Jesus and The Tea Heads, and much more.
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