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Old Juniper is a new album from The Down Hill Strugglers, their first in seven years and first to feature all original songs and tunes.

"These guys are a first rate string band! Walker, Jackson and Eli have absorbed the old tradition, and the songs and tunes they wrote for this album are outstanding."
- Tony Garnier
(Bob Dylan, Asleep at the Wheel)

"From the first track “I’m Gettin’ Ready to Go” to the last “Let the Rich Go Bust", this is a wonderful collection of original songs and tunes by The Down Hill Strugglers (Walker Shepard, Jackson Lynch and Eli Smith).

Based in NYC they have been playing and recording together for 15+ years—this is their first in seven years and it’s a doozy. Old and new, evocative, current—all original. And I, as one who’s always had one foot in “old weird America” and the other in new weird America, love this recording.

The Down Hill Strugglers have, as Nathan Salsburg put it in his notes, 'an exquisite sensitivity to the seam where collective tradition and individual artistry meet….' I couldn’t agree more."
- Alice Gerrard

"If it’s possible to be at the forefront of something old, The Down Hill Strugglers are right there with this new recording! Imaginative arrangements of interesting tunes played with soul, all while reaching back to the best of the old mountain sounds."
- Bruce Molsky

"Throughout the record, the musical texture of Old Juniper shifts and blooms. Eli, Jackson, and Walker exchange roles freely— the banjo, fiddle, and guitar change hands almost every track. No matter their instrument, the three fall into place with the tune their guide. As these dynamics build and transform, a sound raw and beautifully sincere appears.

This album of new old-time tunes and songs will surely be a welcome addition to the well loved canon of American traditional music."
- Nora Brown

"How wonderful is it that The Down Hill Strugglers are releasing a new album? I’ve been a fan of theirs from the beginning and will happily spend time with anything they put out!

I see The Down Hill Strugglers as the primary successors of the great and longstanding tradition of urban interpreter-performers of American vernacular string band music - They pick up where the NLCR left off, with Cohen’s considerable creative guidance ever in their hearts and minds. “Old Juniper” is a testament to the vibrancy of this legacy."
- Jake Xerxes Fussell

Hamburg-born composer, pianist and producer Niklas Paschburg announces his latest project, 'Mexican Alps' EP due for release on July 11th. 'La Hormiga' is a rhythmic exploration of life in motion. Pulsing beats and textured synths create forward momentum, echoing the journey through the winding paths of Oaxaca's mountainous surroundings, where tradition and nature intertwine. 'Mexican Alps' combines inspirations gathered from the picturesque mountains of southern Mexico and the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps. The EP is a mesmerizing journey through those landscapes; drawing inspiration from nature's grandeur and the vibrancy of Día de los Muertos, Niklas blends electronic textures, atmospheric samples, and innovative instrumentation to create a soundscape that is both grounding and transcendent. Without relying on his signature piano, this EP explores new creative territories, evoking deep emotional resonance and moments of introspection. -- If his first album, 'Oceanic '(2018), was conceived as an ode to the Baltic Sea, for his next release, 'Svalbard' (2020), produced with Andy Barlow of Lamb, the Hamburg-born musician, now a Berliner by adoption, sought refuge on an island in the Arctic Ocean, surrounded by snow, ice, darkness and breathtaking landscapes. This time, however, the setting is completely different. "It all started with an invitation to play at a festival in Oaxaca," Niklas says. "Since I had never been to Latin America, I began considering how to take advantage of the opportunity to stay for a while and write something there. I started looking for houses, but I quickly realized it was almost impossible to find one with a piano—it's not a common instrument in Mexican culture. I thought, why not try immersing myself in a writing process that doesn't involve one? I was so excited about the idea that I jumped in." 'Mexican Alps' is the result of a challenge in which Paschburg harnessed his collection of synths and effects to create an ambient-electronic record. On the one hand, an evolution of the work primarily carried out in 'Svalbard' and 'Panta Rhei'; on the other hand, an episode in its own right, distinct from its predecessors due to the absence of the piano and the greater role played by improvisation, by coincidence, it became his first work created without his signature instrument. "Not having the opportunity to write chords, harmonies, and everything else on the piano, I improvised more, focusing on the sound. This was the approach I used to record demos in Mexico, which I then brought with me to Switzerland, where I carried on working on the EP. In addition to my usual setup (the OB-6 by Dave Smith and Tom Oberheim and the OP-1 by Teenage Engineering, plus my ever-beloved Hohner accordion, inherited from my grandfather), I was also guided by the purchase of a new Moog Matriarch with a unique delay. All this helped me build the sound I had in mind: a spacious, abstract, 3D sound that is definitely immersive." He expands. It is an emotional landscape that translates into music. In some of the tracks, Paschburg has also included field recordings collected during the Día de los Muertos, a deeply felt Mexican holiday: "A great celebration, a colorful parade of skeletons, skulls, flowers, and decorated altars, so engaging and intoxicating that I felt compelled to use its sounds in my music." It was precisely from this blend of influences that the fourth track, "Oaxaca de Juárez", emerged—a single characterized by a catchy funk procession and enhanced by the guitar work of Tal Arditi, a rising European jazz artist and singer-songwriter based between Basel and Berlin. 'Mexican Alps' is his new calling card, featuring an enveloping sound crafted by Paschburg in collaboration with Gijs van Klooster, who mixed the EP in a studio specifically designed for Atmos music. Mastering was handled by Bo Kondren at Calyx Studio in Berlin.

2025 Repress
Nach der Veröffentlichung seines neuen gemeinsamen Albums "Tall Tales" mit Thom Yorke erscheint eine Vinylneuauflage von Mark Pritchards 2016er Soloalbum "Under The Sun" über Warp Records. Pritchard entzieht sich hier wie gewohnt einer einfachen Kategorisierung, was diesem Werk Tiefe und Nuancen verleiht. Er greift auf Klänge und Einflüsse seiner musikalischen DNA zurück: Ambient, Nu-Wave, Avantgarde-Elektronik und Folk, interpretiert sie aber durch einen jenseitigen Filter neu, der "Under The Sun" eher in der Zukunft statt in der Vergangenheit verortet. Das Album enthält Beiträge von Kollegen und Freunden wie Thom Yorke, Linda Perhacs, Bibio und Beans und behandelt Themen wie Schönheit, Trostlosigkeit und Heimatsehnsucht.

* "Wunderschöner melancholischer Downtempo von einem meisterhaften Elektronik-Polyglotten." – MOJO****
* "Under The Sun ist tief atmosphärisch und tief impressionistisch." – Pitchfork

Cinematic funk visionaries The Diasonics drop a new disco-funk 45 vinyl with two killer tracks tailor made for DJs and cinematic funk fans. Only 500 copies pressed wordwide, instant collector's item. From the snowy streets of Moscow to the crates of vinyl diggers worldwide, cinematic instrumental combo The Diasonics unleash a new limited edition clear vinyl 45 with two killer tracks taken from the upcoming new album "Ornithology", set to drop worldwide on October 3 via Record Kicks. On the A side "Oriole" is a vintage disco-funk stormer taking inspiration both from the Soviet-era disco and jazz fusion records, as well as from 70s European library music and synth-funk movement. A minimalist synthesizer melody echoing the song of the oriole, paired with a steady disco-funk groove reminiscent of a train in motion ("Oriole" is also the name of a popular Russian electric train) lay the foundation of their most danceable track to date. The b-side holds the equally strong "Chickadee" a funk stomper with bold bassline and heavy b-boy breaks and percussions and a NY early 80 vibe able to set every dancefloor on fire. A peerless party-starter that you just don't want to miss it. Formed in 2019, this four-piece instrumental unit _ Daniil Lutsenko (electric guitar), Kamil Gazizov (keyboards), Maksim Brusov (bass), and Anton Moskvin (drums & percussion) _ quickly gained cult status through a series of sought-after 45s on Mocambo and Funk Night Records. Their critically acclaimed debut album "Origin of Forms" mixed by Henry Jenkins, producer of the Australian cult band Surprise Chef, came out on Record Kicks in 2022. The vinyl went sold out in few weeks and is now in-demand on the international cinematic funk scene.

Das dritte Album der Supersuckers aus Tucson, AZ - "The Sacrilicious Sounds of the Supersuckers" von 1995 - ist ein Klassiker und endlich wieder erhältlich, und zwar auf limitiertem, undurchsichtigem, rotem Vinyl! "The Sacrilicious Sounds of The Supersuckers" wurde von Paul Leary von den Butthole Surfers produziert und ist wütender, höhnischer Punkrock, der die besondere Mischung aus Hardrock, Punk und anspruchsloser Country-Kultur der Band perfekt auf den Punkt bringt. The Damned trifft ZZ Top? Die Motörhead des Südwestens? So etwas in der Art, sicher, aber letztendlich sind The Supersuckers ihr eigenes Ding, und auf "The Sacrilicious Sounds..." - und vor allem auf der Single "Born With a Tail" - beginnen die kläglichen Country-Klagen von Sänger Eddie Spaghetti selbstbewusster durch das rohe Punk-Aggregat zu stoßen. Apropos Aggro: Dies ist das einzige Album der Band mit Rick Sims von den Punk-Legenden Didjits aus Illinois an der Gitarre, und Sims treibt die ohnehin schon gewaltige Wand aus übersteuerten Gitarren der Supersuckers pflichtbewusst in die Höhe. Als zusätzliches Schmankerl übernimmt Sims den Leadgesang bei dem rasanten "Run Like a Motherfucker".

Ultramarine is the London & Essex-based electronic duo Ian Cooper and Paul Hammond.

Following the reissue earlier this year of Ultramarine's 1998 album 'A User's Guide' by Swiss label WRWTFWW, Blackford Hill present 'Routine', a collection of thirteen previously unheard tracks recorded between 1996-97.

These tracks are drawn from the daily working practice adopted by the duo at their studio of the time on Coronet Street, behind London's Hoxton Square.

Often the result of a single day's work, these pieces find Ultramarine developing their palette, experimenting with sounds, treatments and techniques. Recorded as live mixes straight to tape, the results have the immediacy of new ideas freshly captured.

It’s very difficult to describe someone as prolific as Misha Panfilov. So, I feel the best way to define him is to think of a “Trivial Pursuit Playing Piece,” where each pie piece represents one of the bands he heads up, and each band has its own distinct style and genre. Yet, when looked at all together, create the whole musical persona of Misha. This is the lens I would like to view his latest endeavor, Days As Echoes.

The vibe on this sophomore release channels Krautrock philosophy and Library music, peppered with elements of jazz, Ethiopian, cinema, ambient and bits of everything between. This atmosphere is created from all the instruments Misha uses and the resulting compositions are heard as repetitive patterns that are forged from the multiple layering of melodies. Thus, creating six unique songs with emotional granularity, yet collectively encompass a genuinely positive “feel good” vibe…with a hint of nostalgia.

Moods of the day, moods like echoes say, A future of hope is yours, by following the Sun’s ray.

The opening track, “Days As Echoes,” is a dedication to a much simpler time when the sky was bluer and the snow was whiter…just like how you remember it when you were a child. A time when people honestly cared more about everything as a given, and not as a selfish accolade. A time when optimism seemed within reach. In other words, nostalgia marred by awareness.

…Leading to a path where the skies are not gray. Where dreams of castles in the air are the mainstay.

“In A Dream” has a style that pays homage to both spiritual jazz and ambient music. A simple theme is introduced and leads to the climax of this stormy dream, putting it all in perspective. That pivotal point when one realizes the truth by re-tracing the events, which led to the epiphany of how to find the answer while traveling within this airy soundscape.

…Diurnal or nocturnal, day or night, Traveling the path of truth must be done without fright.

One can’t help but feel a definite traveling vibe that comes from “Moonscape Waltz” To me, it has a dual-characteristic that can be visualized as a train trip, either at sunrise or sunset. Regardless, the time is not of major relevance, but the actual pursuit is. Lao Tzu said, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with that first step.” This track takes you beyond that initial step into this vast world toward your destination as you search for the truth.

…The unknown is real, but you know the deal. People need people to show which direction you point the wheel.

“Together” is the most peaceful and solo oriented compositions of this album. It shows how one cannot achieve happiness alone, but the importance of having someone special or a group of others to help along the way. Not only to help seek your goal, but also the ability to enjoy the scenery while on your journey

…The end of this tunnel has a light that’s so bright. Illuminating the trodden way, your destination, now in sight.

One is free from the chains of the unknown as you listen to a “Few Layers For Smith”, a dedication to a friend. A song that draws energy from the ECM works of Steve Reich, thats married with a primitive lo-fi basement setting. Its positive force breaks those encumbrances and gives you a glimpse of your prize. But you ruminate on this and come to the conclusion that the path that led you there is equally important as the goal itself. Question is, how do you share your realizations and experiences?

…The route was cast, the trials have passed. The glittering treasure you sought is yours now, at last.

“Ocean Song” meanders from the ritual rhythms of its shoreline to the crashing riptides of unbridled guitar feedback, creating this raging ocean atmosphere. However, its message is quite clear and states that people’s goals and experiences are not just meant for personal growth, but to be shared with
others, so that they too can live vicariously thru your story and somehow utilize it for their own.

…The prize has been won, but the journey is never done. You now have the responsibility to share everything under the Sun.

These six songs, each with its own sound, collectively comprise the vibe of this album. One cannot help but feel a sense of joy and fulfillment when listening to it. Each song has its own unique mood, yet together create an atmosphere of hope and happiness that has no choice but to spill out of the listener. I feel this was the ultimate goal of Misha’s on this record. Quite a challenge for the man who never sleeps, but is always searching for the perfect beat. One may not fully grasp his musical mind, but this album does give you a gateway into the moods and magic of Misha!

- Brent Sawicki

Volume 3 sees Lou flip Doja Cat's Paint The Town Red using the classic "Get Lifted" sample to good effect. On the B side Lou flips Tyla's "Water" in a very fresh style - abosolute dancefloor mayhem!

The lovely, longing ‘I Still Think About You’ was a regular highlight of the band’s earliest live sets and was one of the first songs they wrote together. “We wrote it three years ago, before we had released any music,” explains the band’s Ben Easton. “It had a certain youthful optimism that we loved, but after a few road tests we decided to shelve it. However, we knew that there was still something in it, so we brought it back earlier this year and we’re chuffed with the result.” “We wanted to capture the purity of wanting to see someone again, hoping they appear around the corner, or in your local park or pub, without any form of doubt that creeps into one’s mind as we grow older,” adds singer Dottie. “We enjoyed exploring and challenging ourselves to achieve a softer and uplifting narrative – it’s possibly the most joyful thing we’ve ever written.” On the flip side, the ‘No Ordinary Love’ reframes the slick R&B of the original as a dark and delicious dreampop / trip-hop crossover. “The original was pretty much on repeat during our tour late last year and we thought it’d be an interesting thing to try,” explains the band’s Ben Easton of the decision to cover the song. “It’s a good representation of where we’re going, sonically, and it was also our first recording experience with Harry Catchpole on drums and so we particularly focused on what he brings to the table. We experimented with different snares, mics and other effects to create our own kind of drum sample which is something that feels important to the deary sound going forward.”

Stephen James Buckley, aka Polypores, releases his brand new studio album on June 6th.‘Cosmically A Shambles’ sees a slight shift in direction from his signature sound, with stronger elements of rhythm and melody than his more abstract back catalogue though still remaining unmistakably Polypores. Highly textural, intricately woven modular synth tapestries, through to whirling psychedelic freak-outs with hypnotic polyrhythms and fuzzed-up drum machines.Still creating in the same method, using modular synths and ‘playing’, rather than the use of samples or studio or synthesiser pre sets, this album features more beats and textures, seeing a shift towards almost psyc or krautrock. Preceded by his first ever 7” lathe cut single ‘Whorl’, the album is released by Crackedankles Records from Stephen’s homewtown of Preston.

Greta Kline's musical output as Frankie Cosmos exemplifies the generation of musicians born out of online self-releasing. Kline initially built a reputation with her prolific catalogue of bedroom recordings and as a performer and advocate of New York's All Ages DIY scene. The beauty in Kline's writing does not lie within immense statements and large gestures, but instead can be found in her ability to examine situations and relationships with heartbreaking sincerity. In 2014 Kline released her first studio album, Zentropy. Within months of its release, Zentropy became one of the most critically acclaimed independent albums of the year and was named New York Magazine's #1 Pop album of 2014. In 2015 Kline signed to Bayonet Records, immediately releasing an EP where she experimented with writing in an electronic setting. The EP Fit Me In was well received and garnered a Best New Track from Pitchfork. Kline then began recording her next album appropriately titled, Next Thing. Like Zentropy, Kline approached Next Thing by fleshing out several old home recordings, and by writing half of the album from scratch. Next Thing explores new emotional and instrumental territory for Kline.

Formed in Portland, OR in 1980, Poison Idea debut record features 13 songs in 13 minutes. Poison Idea were one of the first hardcore bands to inspire artists across multiple genre lines. Poison Idea’s 1983 Debut Release!!! Iconic Original Artwork! New Liner Notes by Jerry A. Features Sticker, Lyric Sheet, Credit Sheet, and Liner Notes.

Pyrex’s post-apocalyptic punk slithers out of the melting pot that is New York City, nodding to influences ranging from early thrash to Crass Records post-punk and the city’s own storied hardcore lineage. Rooted in the classic acid-damaged sound of Chrome, Pyrex takes notes from disparate influences like Poison Idea, Needles and Crazy Spirit, delivering a rolling boil of punk nihilism with hints of psychedelia simmering beneath. Their latest, Slugman, is four tracks of irate punk fury packed into a taut eight minutes—all toxic sludge and raw nerve spilling in abundance. It’s nasty, unhinged and volatile but won’t leave your turntable for a long while. Approach with caution.

Things just get heavier and heavier in Scott ‘Wino’ Weinrich’s career and his short-lived classic band The Hidden Hand is no exception. Formed in 2002 and already disbanded in 2007 the trio featured Wino, Bruce Falkinburg on bass/songwriting/vocals and drummer Dave Hennessy.
If The Obsessed, St. Vitus, Shrinebuilder, Probot and Spirit Caravan aren’t enough to bring Wino's CV to legendary status, stop reading now.
LINER NOTES from WINO:

"When I returned from California after The Obsessed Columbia record deal fell apart, I didn't have any gear at all and after we put together (SHINE) which became Spirit Caravan, I was hustling to put a guitar rig together. I discovered ATOMIC MUSIC a super cool store in MARYLAND that encouraged trades, and had a lot of cool shit there,we had met another cat Sonny, who being the gregarious friendly cat he was befriended us (the band) and introduced me to his friend who's recording studio shared space with Atomic Music, Bruce Falkinburg and Phase recording studio. Bruce was a very interesting and hyper intelligent guy, bassist, knowledgeable in all things but specializing in recording rock music. We had decided to diversify our recording process and parted ways with one of my old friends Chris Kozlowski and PolarBearLair studios who had recorded everything Spirit Caravan had done so far.

I hired Bruce to record the version of Darkness and Longing that was our song on the Sixty Watt Shaman -Spirit Caravan split single. We liked what he did on that recording and decided to record more with Bruce at Phase and so we did ;the last SC single -" So Mortal Be/ Undone Mind" and recorded three tracks that were eventually released on "The Last Embrace." Bruce and I had firmly cemented our friendship and when shit fell apart with Spirit Caravan , we decided to form a band. Out of a very interesting list of possible band names Bruce's idea" The Hidden Hand " seemed to resonate the most and once Bruce had recruited Dave Hennessy (guitarist for OSTINATO) to play drums it was ON. Over the next couple years and a couple different drummers, The Hidden Hand would record one single, one split ep ,one compilation song and Three full length albums. Knowing Bruce, and working with everyone in The Hidden Hand realm enriched my life greatly . Bruces enthusiasm, knowledge, creativity, intellect and musical abilities remains an inspiration. Thanks Bruce, Sonny, Louis and Eric and all at ATOMIC MUSIC, Dave Hennessy,Matt and Jeremy Osinato ,Evan Tanner, J Robbins, Mcarthyism records, Andreas at Exile from Mainstream records, Greg Tubevision, 930 club ,Black Cat, Gussound, Diana W, Woody, Stinking Lizaveta, Jadd Schickler and Meteor City, Southern Lord records and extra special thanks to Gianluca and Improved Sequence for keeping this music alive!"
Wino - summer 2024

Things just get heavier and heavier in Scott ‘Wino’ Weinrich’s career and his short-lived classic band The Hidden Hand is no exception. Formed in 2002 and already disbanded in 2007 the trio featured Wino, Bruce Falkinburg on bass/songwriting/vocals and drummer Dave Hennessy.
If The Obsessed, St. Vitus, Shrinebuilder, Probot and Spirit Caravan aren’t enough to bring Wino's CV to legendary status, stop reading now.
LINER NOTES from WINO:

"When I returned from California after The Obsessed Columbia record deal fell apart, I didn't have any gear at all and after we put together (SHINE) which became Spirit Caravan, I was hustling to put a guitar rig together. I discovered ATOMIC MUSIC a super cool store in MARYLAND that encouraged trades, and had a lot of cool shit there,we had met another cat Sonny, who being the gregarious friendly cat he was befriended us (the band) and introduced me to his friend who's recording studio shared space with Atomic Music, Bruce Falkinburg and Phase recording studio. Bruce was a very interesting and hyper intelligent guy, bassist, knowledgeable in all things but specializing in recording rock music. We had decided to diversify our recording process and parted ways with one of my old friends Chris Kozlowski and PolarBearLair studios who had recorded everything Spirit Caravan had done so far.

I hired Bruce to record the version of Darkness and Longing that was our song on the Sixty Watt Shaman -Spirit Caravan split single. We liked what he did on that recording and decided to record more with Bruce at Phase and so we did ;the last SC single -" So Mortal Be/ Undone Mind" and recorded three tracks that were eventually released on "The Last Embrace." Bruce and I had firmly cemented our friendship and when shit fell apart with Spirit Caravan , we decided to form a band. Out of a very interesting list of possible band names Bruce's idea" The Hidden Hand " seemed to resonate the most and once Bruce had recruited Dave Hennessy (guitarist for OSTINATO) to play drums it was ON. Over the next couple years and a couple different drummers, The Hidden Hand would record one single, one split ep ,one compilation song and Three full length albums. Knowing Bruce, and working with everyone in The Hidden Hand realm enriched my life greatly . Bruces enthusiasm, knowledge, creativity, intellect and musical abilities remains an inspiration. Thanks Bruce, Sonny, Louis and Eric and all at ATOMIC MUSIC, Dave Hennessy,Matt and Jeremy Osinato ,Evan Tanner, J Robbins, Mcarthyism records, Andreas at Exile from Mainstream records, Greg Tubevision, 930 club ,Black Cat, Gussound, Diana W, Woody, Stinking Lizaveta, Jadd Schickler and Meteor City, Southern Lord records and extra special thanks to Gianluca and Improved Sequence for keeping this music alive!"
Wino - summer 2024

A city pop solo album released exclusively in Australia under the name "Hiroshi" by the renowned guitarist "Hiroshi Yasukawa (ex-DEW)" who has participated in works such as Jiro Inagaki and Soul Media's "Funky Stuff", Kingo Hamada's "Midnight Cruisin'" and Hatsumi Shibata's "Live/Entertainment Special". After about 41 years, this is the first reissue with obi and made in Japan!

When unknown virtuoso guitarist Tosin Abasi released his debut solo album under the moniker ANIMALS AS LEADERS in 2009, few would have predicted the band's meteoric rise over the next two years. Although Abasi earned acclaim as the lead guitarist in the Washington, D.C.-based metalcore act Reflux, it was still a long-shot that an instrumental album of progressive metal with jazz, electronic and ambient flourishes would develop anything more than a cult following. With "Weightless," the group's sophomore effort, ANIMALS AS LEADERS is revered worldwide as a trailblazing pioneer of modern heavy music. The group's genre-defying compositions have earned extensive praise; Steve Vai called the band "the future of creative, heavy virtuoso guitar playing," and MetalSucks recently ranked Abasi #2 on their list of modern metal's top guitarists. Whereas the group's self-titled debut was a collaboration between Abasi and Periphery's Misha Mansoor, "Weightless" features the recording debut of ANIMALS AS LEADERS, the true band; Abasi (guitars), Javier Reyes (guitars) and Navene Koperweis (drums). After nearly two years of touring together, the trio wrote and recorded "Weightless" together in mid-2011, with Koperweis producing and Reyes mixing. The group debuted a new track, "Isolated Incidents," during their inaugural headlining tour that summer, which included sellout shows from coast-to-coast.

When unknown virtuoso guitarist Tosin Abasi released his debut solo album under the moniker ANIMALS AS LEADERS in 2009, few would have predicted the band's meteoric rise over the next two years. Although Abasi earned acclaim as the lead guitarist in the Washington, D.C.-based metalcore act Reflux, it was still a long-shot that an instrumental album of progressive metal with jazz, electronic and ambient flourishes would develop anything more than a cult following. With "Weightless," the group's sophomore effort, ANIMALS AS LEADERS is revered worldwide as a trailblazing pioneer of modern heavy music. The group's genre-defying compositions have earned extensive praise; Steve Vai called the band "the future of creative, heavy virtuoso guitar playing," and MetalSucks recently ranked Abasi #2 on their list of modern metal's top guitarists. Whereas the group's self-titled debut was a collaboration between Abasi and Periphery's Misha Mansoor, "Weightless" features the recording debut of ANIMALS AS LEADERS, the true band; Abasi (guitars), Javier Reyes (guitars) and Navene Koperweis (drums). After nearly two years of touring together, the trio wrote and recorded "Weightless" together in mid-2011, with Koperweis producing and Reyes mixing. The group debuted a new track, "Isolated Incidents," during their inaugural headlining tour that summer, which included sellout shows from coast-to-coast.

Roughly two years after the release of their initial statement of intent, debut single “Toutpartout PT2” with its hypnotic ripples, Andi Haberl and Florian Zimmer aka Bella Wakame have successfully channeled the magic of a 2024 live recording (captured at Berlin’s Donau115 & Silent Green) into their first proper studio offering. You can hear inspirations ranging from Bitchin Bajas, Jeremiah Chiu to Groupshow (Jelinek, Leichtmann, Pekler), the hypnotic, intricate battle between form and freedom (the fun of momentary formlessness) continues to unfold over the course of 10 new tracks, featuring album guest Indra Dunis (Peaking Lights). Their first single "Shadows of Nambei" was very much inspired by the wonderful band Spirit Fest and their song "Nambei".

You can either shorten the reins, or you can loosen them – and give things more slack. With Bella Wakame, it’s definitely the latter. Constantly challenging each other, they’re tapping a whole new energy. Tons of different energies.

Based on the impulsive, propulsive interplay between drums/sensory percussion (Andi Haberl) and modular synthesizer (Florian Zimmer), the frenzied, free-form results take listeners into completely new dimensions – sonic worlds that don’t really sound anything like their other musical outlets (The Notwist, SUN, Saroos, Driftmachine etc.).

Whereas most bands tend to notoriously overthink names/monikers, these guys obviously only care about the ecstatic push-and-pull that occurs once their instruments meet and overlap: it’s wildly explosive textures with a booming heart. Moving restlessly between motorik club, electro-acoustic jazz experiments, ambient excursions, and fast-paced instrumental anthems that seem to explode at the seams, one can immediately tell how much they enjoy the newfound freedom, the turbulent encounters born on the spur of the moment.

It’s all about a quick-paced exchange of friendly blows, a chasing of tails into ever-new musical terrains. Relying on just enough form for that wildness to blossom within, their just-in-time dashes continually unfold, refold, return, grow bigger – and leave you startled.

LOSER pressing on - LIGHT BLUE BIO VINYL. Auf ihrem kaleidoskopischen zweiten Album, The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life, definiert Debby Friday den Erfolg auf ihre Weise. ,Ich will ein Star sein, diesen Wunsch kann ich nicht verbergen", sagt sie. ,Aber ich will nicht den Traum von jemand anderem leben oder einem vorgegebenen Weg folgen." Für die nigerianisch-kanadische Universalgelehrte bedeutet Starrr zu sein, in den Extremen zu leben: öffentlich oder privat, Selbstüberschätzung oder Demut, Fliegen oder Fallen. Ein Starrr zu sein bedeutet, den apokalyptischen Hedonismus eines nächtlichen Raves zu umarmen - und die Gemeinschaft im ,dunklen Raum, Mädchen in der Schlange für die Toilette" in der brummenden House-Hymne ,All I Wanna Do Is Party" zu finden. Es bedeutet, dass sie mit den Detroiter Techno-Wunderkindern HiTech in ,In The Club" Zeilen über Flaschen auf Eis austauscht und auf der Tanzfläche ausflippt, während sie zugibt, dass sie ,in diesen Tagen kaum auf der Tanzfläche ist". Es ist der Sound der Entdeckung, was nach dem Erfolg kommt, von dem die meisten Künstler nur träumen - wie man hell brennt, ohne auszubrennen. In 11 Songs stellt The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life Freitags chamäleonartigen Gesang zur Schau. Von der spärlichen, hauchzarten Schönheit des liebeskranken ,Leave" bis hin zum treibenden Post-Punk von ,Darker The Better". Der Gewinn des Polaris-Preises 2023 für ihr Debütalbum GOOD LUCK hat Debby Friday nur noch mehr angespornt: ,I'm tryna see more/ Man, I want the payoff" rappt sie über laserartige Synthesizer auf dem mühelos kopierten Kiss-off ,Lipsync`. Aber das Leben auf Messers Schneide kann nur eine gewisse Zeit lang aufrechterhalten werden: Während einer Nonstop-Tournee zur Unterstützung des Albums wurde sie schwer krank. Die Diagnose? Stressinduzierte Gürtelrose. Diese Erfahrung zwang Friday dazu, sich nach innen zu wenden. Im folgenden Jahr änderte sich ihr Management, ihre Routine und ihre Prioritäten. Um ihre Vision von radikaler Ehrlichkeit auf der Tanzfläche zum Leben zu erwecken, rekrutierte Friday den australischen Produzenten Darcy Baylis (Wicca Phase Springs Eternal). Die beiden kehrten zwischen ihren Tourneen in ihre De-facto-Heimat London zurück und tauschten im Studio von morgens bis Mitternacht Ideen aus. The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life ist voll von verschlüsselten, wenn-du-weißt-schon-wem-Referenzen, die Liebesbriefe und Anspielungen aus den Namen von It-Girl-Parfüms, französischem Cognac und hellenistischen Prophetinnen, die in Zungen sprechen, verweben. Es liest sich wie eine Manifestation von Freitags Streben nach einem experimentellen Popsound, der sich immer noch unverkennbar nach ihr anfühlt. ,Dieses Album handelt von der Idee, nach etwas zu greifen", sagt sie. ,Es geht darum, die Zeichen zu sehen und diesem Impuls zu folgen, immer mit der Möglichkeit, entweder in die Sonne zu fliegen oder auf die Erde zurückzufallen." Auf The Starrr Of The Queen Of Life erhebt sich Debby Friday in die Lüfte, um ihre Flügel zu befestigen und dem Klang ihrer eigenen Stimme zu folgen.

Mansur Brown präsentiert seine bisher authentischste und ehrlichste Arbeit. "Rihla" ist das arabische Wort für Reise, kann sich aber auch auf Texte über die Reise beziehen. Auf dieser erlebt man einen Künstler in vollem Flow, der sich Trends widersetzt und Musik macht, die sich keinem Genre verpflichtet fühlt. Im neuen Kapitel liefert Mansur erstmals eigene Vocals, begleitet von einer härteren Rock-Unterströmung, ohne dabei seine typisch melodische Essenz zu verlieren. Anklänge an Elektronik und R&B mit Sci-Fi-artigen Synths strahlen lebendige Bilder aus. Die Gitarre bleibt das Herzstück seiner Musik, aber bei weitem nicht die einzige Komponente. In seinen Rollen als Songwriter, Produzent und Multiinstrumentalist prägt der Geist der Eigenständigkeit alles, was Mansur tut. Zuvor arbeitete er mit Yussef Dayes, Joy Orbison und Little Simz zusammen.

WRWTFWW Records is very excited to announce its third release from visionary Japanese ambient/experimental/environmental composer/producer Yutaka Hirose, this time with brand new album Voices, available on limited edition heavyweight-sleeved double LP as well as double CD, both with liner notes from the artist.

Voices finds Yutaka Hirose expanding his signature spatial layering into a three-dimensional videography of sound, blending field recordings, electronic manipulations, and abstract narratives. The 12-track album is a journey through a crumbling library where books whisper, history collides, and sonic textures weave new realities. Chaos, memory, and transformation – Hirose’s voices echo throughout the space, creating a fully immersive sonic experience.

The pioneering experimental and abstract electronic piece with deep hints of ambient and IDM is beautifully represented by the original artwork by Koji Shiroshita and Mifuku gracing the double LP and double digipack CD sleeves.

Voices marks Yutaka Hirose’s third full-length release on WRWTFWW Records, following his kankyõ ongaku classics Nova + 4 (an expanded version of his genre defining Soundscape 2: Nova album) and archival compilation TRACE: Sound Design Works 1986-1989, both available in vinyl, CD, and digital formats.

For anyone unfamiliar with Skeleton Recordings, it was started in 1992 by DJ Monita based in West London and had a quality string of releases between 92-94 like Triple 6, Luv To Luv Ya, A Classic Skank, The Razor's Edge, Nightmares, I could go on and on...

In 2014, the label started back up again & I'd been sending some of my music to Monita around this time which led to me releasing an EP called Storylines on the label in 2016, where I was able to put out some of my music that was made in a darker & more modern style than my usual oldskool inspired work. I also had a tune featured on the 25th anniversary release series called Time's Up alongside other favourite artists of mine like Threshold, Gremlinz, Antidote (R.I.P), Future, Theory, Ricky Force & many more.

In 2021, Monita announced that he would be retiring Skeleton Recordings and putting out the final releases, which were single sided represses of Luv To Luv Ya & Nightmares, nearly 30 years after they originally were made. However, I had some great unofficial remixes that Phineus II had done of The Razor's Edge & Full Cry by Steve C & Monita, which never saw the light of day officially and I took a chance by contacting Monita to see if he'd be up for one more Skeleton Recordings release, in conjunction with Future Retro London.

Thankfully, he was up for the release and on top of that, he was able to provide 2 tracks that he made in 1995 that were meant for Skeleton Recordings but never saw the light of day until they were released digitally on Hardcore Junglism for a brief period of time, but never released on vinyl.

Big thanks to DJ Monita of course for allowing me to make this happen (as well as for his work in creating such a great label) & Phineus II for his remixes.

ATA Records is pleased to announce the release of Early Works 2: Funk, Soul & Afro Rarities From The Archive, a compilation of tracks recorded in the fledgling days of the label paired with some rediscovered treasures from more recent years. While the majority of the album is previously unreleased material several tracks have appeared on different formats.

This is a rare chance for listeners to experience the birth of the ATA's enduring concept and recording techniques from the comfort of their own home.

In 2020 label founder and musician Neil Innes decided to destroy the studio he had spent 14-years building, destroy it and rebuild it from the ground up.

Once the studio began to take shape again and Innes was finally able to take a breath he began rooting through the label's archives, pulling out reels that had been propping up tables, holding open doors and generally lurking in nooks and crannies for years.

His trip down memory uncovered a wealth of dusty musical treasures and also got him thinking about tracks from newer artists, nuggets to compliment the archive gold.

Along with the first airings of tracks by The Harmony Society, The Disarrays this 11track comp includes appearances by studio favourites: The Magnificent Tape Band, The Sorcerers, The Mandatory Eight, Ivan Von Engleberger's Asteroid and long time collaborator Chris Dawkins (recording under Earl Dawkins).Also on the comp is Joe Tatton's Bang Bang Boogaloo, previously only released on 7 inch and greatly desired by record diggers everywhere.

Repress!

Tony Price is back again with Street Theatre, an electrifying new LP on his Maximum Exposure label that serves up eight tracks of rude, crude, real-deal house music with absolute attitude.

Following the recent release of the psychedelic jazz reveries of Requiem for the Ontario Science Centre, this is his second release of 2025 and marks a return to the dancefloor.

Street Theatre is total midnight music—eight tracks of ferocious Chicago house worship, replete with slamming drum machine beatdowns, laser-guided synthesizers, and radioactive funk refractions that evoke Z-Factor’s primal neon pulse, trench coat-era Prince, WBMX cut-ups, and Ron Hardy’s splice-happy Muzic Box mania.

Produced in the span of a week at his studio in Greektown, Toronto, these recordings exemplify what can now undoubtedly be called Tony Price’s signature style—an unvarnished, elemental, no-nonsense approach to record production and sound design that reduces dance music down to its crudest textures and core principles, an approach and ethos that have guided his entire body of work.

Tony’s recorded output showcases fearless exploration across genres—classic house, funk, electro, and the outer limits of electronic jazz and musique concrète. Street Theatre stands tall alongside his Hit Piece LP, the Bail Bonds EP, and his NTS show, The Maximum Exposure Power Hour, as a bold, ecstatic, and direct expression of the eternal essence of house music.

Known for his ability to create captivating, emotionally charged techno, Jonathan Kaspar eventually returns to Cocoon Recordings with his third contribution Twofold Split. One, yet simultaneously two releases that once again showcase his extraordinary talent through condensed techno with a pinch of trance, weaving together driving rhythms and atmospheric textures in a way that feels innovatively progressive.

Drifting hypnotically, this might be the most fitting way to describe what Jonathan Kaspar unfolds before us here. The rolling percussion grooves seamlessly intertwine with the siren's spectral tone, gradually blending into the alchemy of ‘Yah’ as it erupts into the mix. By the time the peak arrives, there’s a raw intensity in the air - the track seems to bend and stretch then drills and twists until it cracks, but never loses its sense of purpose and remainsanchored in its deep, pulsating groove. On the flip side, ‘Silver Lines’ stands as a counterpart, offering a contrast in both sound and atmosphere. With its minimalist arrangement, the track first nestles in gently, lulling the listener into its world—only to tighten its grip as a synth sequence gradually opens its cut-off filter, slicing through the calm, drilling into the mind, and shifting the mood from tranquil to tense.

Known for his ability to create captivating, emotionally charged techno, Jonathan Kaspar eventually returns to Cocoon Recordings with his third contribution Twofold Split. One, yet simultaneously two releases that once again showcase his extraordinary talent through condensed techno with a pinch of trance, weaving together driving rhythms and atmospheric textures in a way that feels innovatively progressive.

Rooted in a minimalist rhythmic structure, ‘Power’ takes us in a new direction, steadily building momentum as its energy billows upwards, with the intensity never wavering throughout. A large, dented, tinny tuba sounds imposingly as Jonathan blows louder and louder into the old thing, its raw, metallic tone instantly commanding attention. What an explosion in the break, leading us into a wild, almost chaotic energy, before Kaspar’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that the shimmering synths feel perfectly placed, guiding us to the absolute freak-out moment. After all the insanity, Jonathan Kaspar takes us by the hand and leads us into a melodic, trancy after-hours mood with “1993,” bringing a sense of release after the wild ride of the previous tracks. What a successful closing track to this outstanding release. With its melodic trance influences, it offers a soothing, almost nostalgic atmosphere, bringing a sense of calm and closure, a perfect moment of introspection and euphoria as
the EP winds down

Jordan Passmore, an electronic music and sound producer based in Indianapolis, USA, has spent two decades crafting original songs, remixes, and live performances. His work is characterized by the use of both vintage and modern synthesizers and drum machines, creating a unique blend of house, wave, techno, and more.

Over the years, he’s been known for producing finely textured tracks that nod to early electronic traditions while pushing into new terrain.

In his latest release, KEEP IT E.P., Passmore continues to push the boundaries of his sound. This EP features a variety of tracks that range from acid techno to mellow new wave, showcasing his ability to intertwine different genres seamlessly. Each song presents a distinct mood and pacing, reflecting a more experimental approach compared to his previous works.

The EP is a kaleidoscope of styles and moods—an interplay of acid techno grit, minimal wave introspection, and rhythm-driven synthscapes. Each track carries its own personality, from the pulsing tension of “Keep It (Short Version)” to the warped funk of “Wired Access Panel” and the dreamy, cinematic sway of “Angelica and Persephone.”

KEEP IT keeps a listener in motion, in thought, and in rhythm.

Chaz Bear (formerly Bundick) was a musician from birth. Growing up, it was normal to hear music across genres, from Michael Jackson to Elvis Costello to The Specials, in the Bundick household. These influences were quite unique for a biracial kid growing up in South Carolina, contributing to the complexity of Chaz’s self-understanding and expression through his own music.

Chaz began playing and recording original compositions in his preteen years, forming multiple indie bands starting in middle school and continuing until his personal project, Toro y Moi, was signed by Carpark Records in 2009. Before getting signed, he was already an incredibly prolific artist, having released over 10 Toro y Moi albums on his own (and undoubtedly retaining a vast compendium of unreleased songs). His personal work drew upon a vaster array of influences than did his full band. Early Toro work called upon Chaz’s childhood exposure to 80’s R&B, pop and electronic music, while also evolving with his discoveries of acts like My Bloody Valentine and J Dilla and his burgeoning interest in French house. Just before his graduation from the University of South Carolina, where he earned a degree in graphic design, Chaz caught the attention of music bloggers and record labels with his dreamy, bedroom recordings.

Outer Peace, was written and recorded in the Bay Area after Chaz’s return from a one year stint in Portland. It is somewhat of a homecoming celebration, filled with features by friends and saturated with a playfulness that had not previously been embraced in past Toro albums. Outer Peace stands in contrast to the more sparse and contemplative Boo Boo, an album recorded while in Portland in relative isolation. With Outer Peace, Chaz showcases his ability to remain on the cutting edge of music’s evolution while not taking himself too seriously. There are contemporary hip hop references mixed in with funk, Eurodance and ambient elements, all interwoven expertly and retaining that quintessential Toro y Moi aesthetic.

ROMEs „Martial Ambient Serie“ mit ihren düsteren, industriellen Klanglandschaften - größtenteils auf restauriertem historischem Audiomaterial basierend - versetzt uns zurück in die blutgetränkten Schlachtfelder der jüngsten europäischen Geschichte, als sich ähnlich wie heute die Ideologien auf europäischem Boden bis zum Tod bekämpften.

Was mit „Käferzeit“ (2019) und „Gärten und Straßen“ (2020) begann und später mit „Haus der Flieger“ (2021) und „Blätter und Steine“ (2023) erweitert wurde, findet nun in „Aster und Edelweiß“ seine fünfte und finale Umsetzung.

„Aster und Edelweiß“ befasst sich mit dem Leben und dem Vermächtnis des 1960 in Pully verstorbenen General Guisan, dem Oberbefehlshaber der Schweizer Armee zur Zeit des Zweiten Weltkrieges, der es wie kein anderer verstand, das Durchhaltevermögen und den Wehrwillen der Schweizer Soldaten und der Bevölkerung angesichts eines möglichen Einmarschs zu stählen. Dabei laden ROME den Hörer auf eine düstere Klangwanderung ein, die durch filigrane Samplearbeit und traumhafte, orgelgetriebene Sequenzen voller dunkler Anmut und zerbrechlicher Eleganz geprägt ist: Eine eindringliche und atemberaubende Reise in das Reich der Pflicht, der Beharrlichkeit und des Opfers.

- Schwarzes, 180 Gramm schweres 12“ Vinyl, Spezielles Schallplatten-Master, Extra audiophiler Tonträger von hoher Qualität – deutsche Pressung, Stabile Kastentasche, Cover im Inside-Out Druckverfahren bedruckt, Schwarze, antistatisch gefütterte Innentasche, Postkarte, Handnummeriert von Jérôme Reuter, Signiert von Jérôme Reuter, Limitiert auf 500 Exemplare

Wer ROME seit der 20-jährigen Bandgeschichte verfolgt, wird nicht bestreiten können: Jerome Reuter ist immer für eine Überraschung gut. Sicher ist der Folk Noir, die düstere Liedermacherkunst mit Akustikgitarre und melancholischen Vocals, seine kreative Basis und Kontinuität. Doch immer wieder finden sich auf seinen Alben atmosphärische Ambienttracks – filmmusikartige Collage und Vertonungen der Konzeptthemen, die ROMEs Ursprung in der Post-Industrial-Culture belegen. Und immer wieder überschreitet er souverän die Grenze zu anderen Genres wie dem Post Punk und dem dunklen Elektropop. Statt luziden Akustikakkorden treten dann noisige, kalte Elemente ins Zentrum, martialische Samples, analoge Synthieklänge und programmierte Beats, die auch auf dem Szenedancefloor nicht stören würden.

„Terres de Sang“ ist nun anlässlich des 20-jährigen Bandjubiläums eine Kollektion von Songs und Instrumentals, die in diesen Versionen noch nicht erhältlich sind, sei es live oder in Remixen. Dazu kommen jene typischen ROME-Klangkollagen, die man von den Intros der Livekonzerte kennt. „Terres de Sang“ ist ein Füllhorn der unterschiedlichen Stile, Themen und Stimmungen, die ROME seit zwei Dekaden kennzeichnen. Daraus ergibt sich kein eigenständiges neues Album, aber ein ebenso spannendes wie unterhaltsames Kaleidoskop der unerschöpflichen Kreativität Jerome Reuters, das dem ROME-Sammler aus dem Herzen spricht. Darunter finden sich auch alternative Liveversionen von beliebten ROME-Hits wie „Das Feuerordal“, „Blighter“ und „Secret Germany“.

Erhältlich als:
- 2CD Digipak
- Schwarzes, 180 Gramm schweres 12“ Doppel-Vinyl, Extra audiophiler Tonträger von hoher Qualität - deutsche Pressung, Gatefold-Klappverpackung, Mehrfarbig bedruckte Innenhüllen, Limitiert auf 500 Exemplare

'Maybe I'm Dreaming' ist die neueste Sammlung von Mikey Young (Total Control, Eddy Current Suppression Ring) und Keith Abrahamsson (Gründer und Leiter A&R bei Anthology Recordings) - den Köpfen hinter den beliebten Kompilationen 'Follow the Sun', 'Sad About the Times' und '...Still Sad'. Die zwanzig Tracks von 'Maybe I'm Dreaming' weichen von ihren Vorgängern ab. Sie stammen vollständig aus privaten Pressungen und umspannen neue Jahrzehnte und Produktionsmodi innerhalb der Genres Homepunk-Folk, Softrock und sonstiger FM-Radio-Musik der 70er und 80er Jahre. Die Magie von 'Maybe I'm Dreaming' liegt in den unerzählten Geschichten der Künstler:innen, die hinter diesen Liedern stehen - diejenigen, die den großen Durchbruch verpasst haben, deren Songhandwerk und unerwiderte Sorgfalt aber die richtigen Töne treffen.

'Maybe I'm Dreaming' taucht tief in die isolierte Wildnis ein - eine private Welt, in der Produktionsmacken, nächtliches Bandrauschen und Ein-Mann-Studio-Träume keine Wahl waren, sondern das ausgeteilte Blatt.

Die Songs wurden in persönlichen Sammlungen, in den Tiefen von YouTube, in verfallenen Webarchiven und in den düsteren Ecken von Discogs ausgegraben. Die Auswahl vieler Stücke basiert dabei nicht nur auf Intuition, sondern auch auf persönlichen Verbindungen. Einige Tracks wurden über Freunde entdeckt und fügen der Zusammenstellung einen unsichtbaren, aber tief empfundenen Faden der Kameradschaft hinzu.

Zwar entfernt sich 'Maybe I'm Dreaming' vom Archetyp des „traurigen Mannes mit Gitarre“, der über den Vorgängern schwebte, aber die vertraute emotionale Schwere bleibt erhalten - eine Balance aus Sehnsucht und Leichtigkeit, die diese Ecke des musikalischen Universums definiert. Jeder Track schwankt sanft zwischen Resignation und Hoffnung, Traurigkeit und Gelassenheit, als würden die Künstler selbst einem unerreichbaren Traum hinterherjagen und die Aufnahmen nicht wegen des Ruhmes, sondern aus dem einfachen Bedürfnis heraus machen, diesen ursprünglichen, kreativen Drang in die Welt hinauszutragen.

'Maybe I'm Dreaming' ist eine Einladung, noch ein wenig länger mit halb geschlossenen Augen im Grenzbereich zwischen Erinnerung und Vorstellung zu schweben. Vielleicht träumst du. Vielleicht bist du wach. Vielleicht spielt es keine Rolle.

- 2LP: (Das Doppel-LP-Set mit dem Artwork von Dang Wayne Olsen wird in einer breiten Kartontasche mit bedruckten Innenhüllen geliefert. Zudem enthält es einen Traumtagebucheintrag von Josh Lewellen, dem Experten für Artefakte aus dem pazifischen Nordwesten.)

Salamanda is the collaborative alias of South Korean producer/DJ duo, and close friends, Uman Therma (Sala) and Yetsuby (Manda). Together they create avant-garde electronic music inspired by minimalist concepts, harmonious rhythms and the work of American composer Steve Reich.

Across the eight tracks of Sphere, their debut for Small Méasures, the pair conjure spherical worlds inspired by bubbles, refracting light and planet earth. Soundscapes laden with percussive elements ebb and flow as arpeggiated stanzas cede to misty synths and shimmering plates, conjuring images of solitary temples sat in vast open plateaus.

“For Sphere, we came up with an abstract concept and image to explore more diversity and encourage imagination. Each track is related to different kinds of sphere we found or imagined. From the big round planet embracing every creature to dancing little bubbles underwater, fragments of ideas floating around, exploding tomatoes, and movement of lights flashing and tickling the eyes…

Or the tracks can be about completely different types of spheres in other people's perspective. We hope Sphere can unleash the imagination and take you on a delightful journey of music.’’

Thank You For Using GTL is a 2020 album from vaunted Los Angeles rapper, Drakeo the Ruler. The album contains verses recorded entirely through phone service from GTL while Drakeo the Ruler was incarcerated at Men’s Central Jail in Los Angeles, California. The album focuses on topics such as the targeting of rap and rappers by the US criminal justice system, the prison-industrial complex, incarceration, capitalism, and the gray area between what’s real versus fiction in hip-hop. Lauded by Pitchfork as “Likely the greatest rap album ever recorded from jail,” and included at number 32 on their 50 Best Albums of 2020, the album serves as an interesting moment in hip-hop, further cementing Drakeo the Ruler as one of LA’s most beloved rap luminaries. For the very first time, for any album, on any format, Drakeo’s music will be available on vinyl for fans. Pressed on Green & Blue A Side B Side vinyl and limited to 1700 copies.

A self-described chronically-sincere farm girl, Emily Hines grew up on a farm in rural Ohio before moving to Nashville where she played in other songwriters' projects before recording her own songs on a 4-track cassette recorder. Hines worked with producer Henry Park. Together they drew inspiration from acts like Duster, Laura Marling, and Karen Dalton to record simply and add layers one at a time. The resulting collection makes for something truly special; rich and decadent but also earthy and cracked. Emily prioritized creating a recording that feels human and present, and the outcome is palpable throughout These Days. At times we're right there in the room with Emily, up close and deeply personal, at other points it's as if you're straining to hear from the outside listening in; ear to the wall, notes carried and caught in the breeze. "We were drawn to the 4-track because it constrains the urge for perfectionism and encourages authenticity to the moment," Emily explains. "What you get is what you get, the 4-track doesn't afford you to get surgical about the details - and that can be really freeing." "Listening to Emily Hines' lo-fi folk ballads feels like discovering a cult hero's lost demos-these gentle, heart-mending recordings crackle with intimacy and seem to unfold as you're listening.' Paste Magazine 'Hines sings plaintive and romantic acoustic ballads, small moments of a life that build to something far greater within the woozy timber of her voice." - Gold Flake Paint

The Populists—the alias of Yan Wagner—are about to unleash their latest assault on the dancefloor with the hotly anticipated EP, Extrême Intensité. This drops on Deadbeat Records in July and comes equipped with a dark, dusty, electro-infused remix from Mr. Ho.

When these demos landed in our inbox, we instantly knew that we needed to release it. This couldn’t be more Deadbeat if it tried; ravey, playful, banging. Expect this to be on heavy rotation throughout summer.

Produced in the vibrant heart of Marseilles, France, Extrême Intensité is a raw, unapologetic salute to UK rave, early dubstep, electro, and acid - the sounds that make your head spin and your jaw shake. Yan describes the project as “probably the most heavy and ‘brainless’ (in the best way) bunch of tracks I’ve ever created; the most UK sounding too.”

This new EP was produced in Yan’s home studio in Marseilles in March 2025, amidst a fierce USBJ digging craze and emerged as a most welcome breath of fresh air as he was immersed in the production process of another, more sombre, project. It’s packing hallmark breakbeats, gritty samples, and vintage Roland synths, all wrapped up in a playful, confident package designed to obliterate the dancefloor.

And to cap things off, Mr Ho, one of the current scene’s biggest producers and close friend of the label, has delivered a dark and warehousey remix that’s guaranteed to keep dance floors ablaze. As a big fan of his, we’re buzzing to finally land him on Deadbeat.



c B1. Extrême Intensité vinyl only

INSTIGATORS are back, with their first shows in over 30 years, and to tie in Boss Tuneage is making their classic second and third albums "Phoenix" and "Shockgun" available again on vinyl, as limited edition colour vinyl pressings as part of the highly acclaimed Boss Tuneage Retro Series. "Shockgun" was originally released in 1988, hot on the heels of extensively touring the US and Europe, and was the second album from the classic second phase of the band, which feature original guitarist Simon Mooney teamed up with Andy "Tez" Turner (ex XPOZEZ) on vocals and the rhythm section of Bob Gorlik on bass and Steve "Cuzzy" Curran on Drums. Restored and remastered by Andy Pearce, it has never sounded better! The first time this album has been available on vinyl for over three decades!! This is a must own purchase for anyone in an interest in 1980's UK punk.

On his brand new studio effort Styles P proves his key to success has always been consistency. The born in Corona, raised in Yonkers, NY native has really worked harder than most to earn the name GOAT, and by naming his album “S.P. The GOAT: Ghost Of All Time” you know he’s not bragging about it, in fact he’s getting his flowers while he’s alive from Hip Hop connoisseurs who know fire bars when they hear them. With productions by Vinny Idol, Termanology, Dayzel the Machine, and Noah Idol among others and guest appearances by Sheek Louch, Jadakiss, Nino Man, Fame of M.O.P, Whispers and Cris Streetz, the legendary LOX and D-Block member proves once again he’s aging like fine wine.

Prometheus is the 2012 science fiction horror film directed by Ridley Scott, written by Jon Spaihts and Damon Lindelof and starring Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green and Charlize Theron. It is set in the late 21st century and centers on the crew of the spaceship Prometheus as it follows a star map discovered among the artifacts of several ancient Earth cultures. Seeking the origins of humanity, the crew arrives on a distant world and discovers a threat that could cause the extinction of the human species.

Marc Streitenfeld is a German composer. He has frequently collaborated with director Ridley Scott. Streitenfeld has composed the music for many high-profile Hollywood features as well as critically acclaimed independent films, including American Gangster, Body of Lies, The Grey, Poltergeist and All I See Is You.

Prometheus became the fifth collaboration between the composer and the director. The score was recorded over one week with a 90-piece orchestra at Abbey Road Studios. Streitenfeld began coming up with ideas for the score after reading the script prior to the commencement of filming. To create an “unsettling” sound, he provided the orchestra with reversed music sheets to have them play segments of the score backwards, before then digitally reversing it. The track “Friend from the Past” reprises Jerry Goldsmith’s original main title from the Alien soundtrack.