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La Pambelé Unveils Nací Mestizo, A Bold New Album Reviving Salsa with a Contemporary Twist Bogotá’s heavy guaguancó orchestra, La Pambelé, proudly presents their highlyanticipated second studio album, Nací Mestizo, now available on all major digital platforms as of November 27th. This album pays tribute to the golden era of salsa, particularly the 1970s, while breathing new life into the genre with modern lyrics and stories that resonate deeply with Latin communities.

All while maintaining a distinct Bogotan essence that highlights the city’s unique cultural flavor. Nací Mestizo seamlessly blends the timeless salsa brava sound with contemporary themes, reflecting the everyday lives of people across Latin neighborhoods. The album’s songs capture the struggles, passions, and joys of ordinary people, presented through the vibrant rhythms of salsa, creating a musical experience that connects the past with the present. Building on Their Rising Popularity Prior to the album’s release, La Pambelé debuted the singles “Amargura” and “Perdí mi Corazón”, which quickly captivated audiences and set the stage for the full album's success. The band’s electric performance of these tracks at the MedPlus Coliseum in Bogotá, before an audience of 22,000 attendees awaiting Marc Anthony, was met with enthusiasm as fans danced and applauded.

This moment marked a significant milestone for the orchestra, cementing their place as a rising force in the global salsa scene. Additionally, La Pambelé’s growing visibility has been marked by their appearances at major festivals such as Salsa al Parque and features on prominent radio stations, including Radio Nacional de Colombia and Latina Stereo. These platforms have helped introduce La Pambelé’s signature sound to a wider audience, building anticipation for the release of Nací Mestizo and reaffirming their influence in Colombia’s tropical and alternative music scenes. A Contemporary Salsa Sound with Classic Roots La Pambelé’s unique blend of traditional salsa brava and contemporary Latin storytelling is showcased through their distinctive nine-piece orchestra, which includes piano, conga, flute, trumpet, trombone, timbales, bongos, and baby bass. The dynamic vocals of Miguel RoRebolledo and Lorena Contento elevate the album’s themes, creating a sound that invites listeners to their feet and onto the dance floor. Under the direction of Camilo Toro Morato, the orchestra has honed its signature style, pushing the boundaries of salsa while staying true to its roots. As a proud defiance of stereotypes about Bogotá’s musical abilities, La Pambelé’s name pays homage to legendary Colombian boxer Kid Pambelé, symbolizing resilience and strength.

The name also draws from the Bantú language, meaning "defender of one's own," reinforcing the band’s connection to their Colombian heritage and pride in their distinctive sound. Global Recognition and Continuing Influence Since the release of their self-titled debut album in 2022, La Pambelé has gained international recognition, especially within the vinyl collector community. Theirdebut album was released in both 45” and LP vinyl editions, further solidifying their unique position in the contemporary salsa movement. Influenced by salsa greats such as Markolino Dimond, Eddie Palmieri, Edy Martínez, and Ismael Miranda, La Pambelé has carried forward the torch of salsa brava with passion and innovation. Nací Mestizo marks a significant evolution in the orchestra’s journey, melding the old and the new, and cementing La Pambelé as a driving force in the future of salsa music. A Collector’s Dream With their 2022 debut album garnering international recognition, La Pambelé’s vinyl releases—including 45” and LP editions—have become coveted items for salsa collectors worldwide. Their music is a bridge between classic salsa traditions and a modern vision, appealing to seasoned fans and new listeners alike. About La Pambelé La Pambelé is a heavy guaguancó orchestra from Bogotá, Colombia, known for their vibrant, rhythm-driven sound that blends 1970s salsa brava with modern Latin influences. With a unique nine-piece lineup and powerful vocals, the band continues to break boundaries, defying expectations and inspiring audiences around the world

"1980 was a huge year in pop music with every genre competing for hits. We have already included many tracks on the records of the 1980 Yearbook, the 80-84 Final Chapter, and their extras so far in our appreciation of the year…

Those tracks were generally the bigger hits of the year, with their chart achievement a factor in their inclusion – however – that’s not the whole singles story of the year, and our celebration of 1980 wouldn’t be complete without shining a light on some of the years’ singles that have been compiled much less frequently over the years.

Welcome to THE VAULT for 1980… Some of the tracks included were Top 40 hits, some missed the chart completely. Some were representative of massive selling albums, and some were big hits in the U.S. and not in the U.K… but all are part of the wonderful pop story of 1980. "

Australia's world-renowned cinematic soul outfit Surprise Chef return with new album Superb. A record that represents a change in their creative approach and turns up the heat in their music. Trading in their meticulous writing and recording techniques for a looser and less planned approach with the intentions of bringing more levity to the process, and it comes through in spades. The high caliber musicianship is still front and center, but they push their sound into a more energetic and fun place on this album. Album opener "Sleep Dreams" is the closest thing to a Surprise Chef tune one would come to expect but then lead single "Bully Ball" comes on and you get the picture that they came to kick in the door on this one. The song's gritty drums thunder through the speakers and get covered with percussion, keys, bass, and guitar chanks that stay in the pocket and bring the funk with them. The band pushes the boundaries of arrangement with tunes like "Body Slam" that starts off like a sweet soul track then pulls a 180, turning dark and haunting, centering on a sound they created by tucking a timpani into a bathroom two doors down from the mixing board. That same sense of experimentation comes up again on "Fare Evader" where they pepper another neck breaking rhythm track with synth notes that sound like robot sound effects from a 70s sci-film. The fellas turn up the tempo for the dance with tunes like "Consulate Case" and "Tag Dag"; the former pulling influence from afro-funk and the latter from jazz-funk. They take us deep into the beautiful world of Surprise Chef ballads on "Websites" and double down on their abilities to make beautiful and ethereal tracks with "Dreamer's Disease". With their new album Superb, their new approach, and plans to tour the world, we are about to see Surprise Chef take the step from the underground's most beloved to a household name and we are definitely here for it.

Co-Accused are back for their first release of 2025 with a dose of raw and relentless techno from one of Glasgow’s most solid of underground forces Fear-E. 9 Darter EP presents four slabs of peak-time pressure, polished with the refined edge of the Posh End Music boss’s production. No surprise this EP is in parts inspired by the sounds of UK techno legend Dave Angel and in others of the general free-wheeling ethos of the 90s - feeling as relentless as a basement session in that golden era.

Fear-E has built a reputation as a beacon of putting out high quality club tracks through his career, releasing on the likes of Dame Music, Dixon Avenue Basement Jams and Dark Entries, while also running his own imprint Posh End Music alongside its hardcore-driven sister label Breakbeat Energy. His records are regularly supported by the likes of Dave Clarke, Ben Sims, The Hacker, Randomer, Jerome Hill, Marcel Dettmann, and James Ruskin, with airplay on BBC Radio 1 and 6 Music.

SAMOSA RECORDS EARTH, WIND & FUNK VOL.2 - Pt.1

Samosa Records comes at you with all the elements for Earth, Wind & Funk Vol. 2 – a succulent double slice of vinyl heaven!

On side A1 label favourites Dirty Elements & Drunkdrivers start the party with the knee-slapping treat ‘Koko’. A bouncing bassline and some sweet clavinet keys act as the starters to this trip around the discophere. Lush strings and sassy vocals provide a delicious cherry on top. Mesmerising stuff.

For A2, Macchianera undergoes a De Gama Re-Groove with ‘Gotta Dance’, a deceptive 115bpm chugger that could travel the tracks for an eternity. Deep, groovy bass and soulful vocals combine perfectly in the build-up to the brass-soaked chorus line. Oh, and you know that rhythm guitar is gonna get you.

Side B1 finds Niels F. ‘Trying To Love’ with a little help from some De Gama Re-Drums. ‘Trying To Love’ breaks out into its stride from the off. With an almost ‘2-step’ vibe at the intro, ‘Trying To Love’ nicely builds to a rag time jam of lush strings, smile-inducing brass and a wicked vocal – all applied perfectly and filtered expertly. Let the good times roll!

B2 brings the Afro inspired delights of MP Soundworks and ‘Gotta Get It’. There’s a tribal vibe in the air at this party, a hypnotic runaway train of a track that makes full use of filtered build ups, looped vocal samples and a wicked, wicked bassline. Bouncier than supper-concentrated Zectron.

In Earth, Wind & Funk Vol. 2 Samosa Records has produced a stunning double slab release, featuring a good mix of some of the label’s most prolific artists and some welcome newcomers.

Sealed ! MINT from Label Stock.

This is as well YB70 number 16, the vinyl edition of the YB70 12 CD. Fat cutting and loud sound, for a superb record... Meet these Techno Indus, downtempo dark hardbreak, Breakcore Dub and others jewelry coming straigth from the Parazit/YB70 selector. Enjoy the 12th anniversary from SEPPUKU/PARAZIT parties in west France, where all these artists played melting the Industrial scene to the techno crowd... Notice the super sleeve. A sealed record... Important release !

12-inchers from Dublin disco messers Fatty Fatty only come along once in a while, but this summer they've got 2 biggies lined up for festival messing, sunset disco joy and eyes-down dirty basement feel...

Pablo and Shoey's 'Raw Human Emotion' EP features 3 tracks never before seen on vinyl and showcases the range of their productions neatly. First up you've got 'Raw Human Emotion Part 2', a track they provided for a Paper Disco compilation many moons ago. Chopping up sections of an old disco-soul stomper and getting deep inside the loops before rising to a joyous hands in the air climax, this is a peak-time winner that brings everyone together.

Flip over for two lost gems from the 'Do It Backwards' EP for Sprechen, which got lost in the chaos of the first Covid lockdown.

'Shoey's Acid Trip' is a peak time, hands aloft, laser reacher - acid preacher style slammer that builds like a bastard, while Pablo's 'Air Raid Dub' of the title track melds a wonky as heck bassline with a wicked boogie breakdown before slamming back in, rave sirens and all. Serious 3am tackle all round...And the likes of Justin Robertson and Severino of Horse Meat Disco agreed at the time, with the latter proclaiming 'Now this is something different...'. The whole EP fits that bill, and should do some serious damage around the place this summer...

Pavilions neue Compilation "Break The Glass, Burn The Cage (The Sound Of Indie Punk Rock)" feiert alles, was Indie und Punk ausmacht. Die Welt der engen, verschwitzten Grassroots-Locations mit elektrisierenden Gitarrenriffs, mitreissenden Basslines und den Stimmen der Bands, die man unbedingt gehört haben muss. Mit herausragenden Tracks von Lime Garden, SPRINTS, Lambrini Girls, Sunflower Bean, English Teacher, Dream Wife, Panic Shack oder, Big Joanie kanalisiert die Compilation die rohe Energie und den rebellischen Geist, die man nur erlangen kann, wenn man sich tief um die Ungerechtigkeiten und den Hass in dieser Welt kümmert. Es ist eine Soundreise durch die Angst, Leidenschaft, den Spass und die Freiheit, die man findet, wenn man "es dem Mann zeigt".

"Break The Glass, Burn The Cage (The Sound Of Indie Punk Rock)" wird am Internationalen Frauentag 2025 als Charity-Album angekündigt, alle Tracks wurden freundlicherweise von den Bands kostenlos gespendet. Somit geht der gesamte Gewinn aus jedem Verkauf an die beiden ausgewählten Wohltätigkeitsorganisationen, die ihr Möglichstes tun, um Frauen und Mädchen aus allen Schichten und Altersgruppen zu helfen, von häuslicher Gewalt über Trauerfälle bis hin zu Obdachlosigkeit und Krieg – Brighton Women's Centre & War Child. Das Album erscheint als recyceltes Vinyl und CD in limitierten Auflagen.

Die aus der estnischen Metalszene stammende Band PRIDIAN wird ihr Debütalbum "Venetian Dark" über Century Media Re-cords veröffentlichen. Ihr moderner, energiegeladener und atmosphärischer Metalcore mit futuristischem Einschlag erinnert an Genre-Größen wie Northlane, Spiritbox und Architects. Beim Songwriting legen PRIDIAN den Schwerpunkt auf cineastisches Storytelling und ein starkes narratives Konzept in ihren Texten, ihrer Musik und ihren visuellen Elementen. "Wir wollen Songs schreiben, nicht nur instrumentenbasierte Musik. Wir könnten technische Sachen schreiben, weil wir alle unsere Instrumente beherrschen, aber gute Songs, interessante Strukturen und gute Geschichten sind wichtiger."Der Albumtitel "Venetian Dark" wurde von einer Farbe inspiriert, die sich in Jörgs Kopf festsetzte und sich langsam zu ihrer end-gültigen Form mit den allgemeinen Themen des Albums entwickelte. Das Album wurde komplett von PRIDIAN geschrieben und produziert, die viel individuelle und gemeinschaftliche Arbeit in die Entwicklung der Tracks gesteckt haben. Tracks wie "Out For Blood", "DINY" und "Void Resonance" vereinen chaotische, energiegeladene Riffs mit EDM-artigen Synthies, krachenden Break-downs und atmosphärischen Elementen. PRIDIAN schöpft aus dem Metalcore der 2010er-Ära, dem Djent und dem von Deftones inspirierten Post-Hardcore und lässt sogar eine Korn-ähnliche Nu-Metal-Kante erkennen, vor allem beim schweren, aber ein-gängigen "Darker Tides". Das Zwischenspiel "Synthetic Salvation" unterstreicht den kühnen Ansatz der Band, wie Laur erklärt: "Einige Tracks sind mehr Produktion als Song... das ist kein Metal, aber das ist mir egal. Es ist uns egal, was andere sagen." Abgemischt von Matt Thomas (Kingdom Of Giants, Invent Animate), bietet "Venetian Dark" eine hochmoderne Produktion in Be-zug auf Ausgewogenheit und Modernität. Venetian Dark" ist als Standard CD Jewelcase, als limitierte transparent blau-schwarz marmorierte LP, sowie als digitales Album erhältlich.

Australia's world-renowned cinematic soul outfit Surprise Chef return with new album Superb. A record that represents a change in their creative approach and turns up the heat in their music. Trading in their meticulous writing and recording techniques for a looser and less planned approach with the intentions of bringing more levity to the process, and it comes through in spades. The high caliber musicianship is still front and center, but they push their sound into a more energetic and fun place on this album. Album opener "Sleep Dreams" is the closest thing to a Surprise Chef tune one would come to expect but then lead single "Bully Ball" comes on and you get the picture that they came to kick in the door on this one. The song's gritty drums thunder through the speakers and get covered with percussion, keys, bass, and guitar chanks that stay in the pocket and bring the funk with them. The band pushes the boundaries of arrangement with tunes like "Body Slam" that starts off like a sweet soul track then pulls a 180, turning dark and haunting, centering on a sound they created by tucking a timpani into a bathroom two doors down from the mixing board. That same sense of experimentation comes up again on "Fare Evader" where they pepper another neck breaking rhythm track with synth notes that sound like robot sound effects from a 70s sci-film. The fellas turn up the tempo for the dance with tunes like "Consulate Case" and "Tag Dag"; the former pulling influence from afro-funk and the latter from jazz-funk. They take us deep into the beautiful world of Surprise Chef ballads on "Websites" and double down on their abilities to make beautiful and ethereal tracks with "Dreamer's Disease". With their new album Superb, their new approach, and plans to tour the world, we are about to see Surprise Chef take the step from the underground's most beloved to a household name and we are definitely here for it.

Australia's world-renowned cinematic soul outfit Surprise Chef return with new album Superb. A record that represents a change in their creative approach and turns up the heat in their music. Trading in their meticulous writing and recording techniques for a looser and less planned approach with the intentions of bringing more levity to the process, and it comes through in spades. The high caliber musicianship is still front and center, but they push their sound into a more energetic and fun place on this album. Album opener "Sleep Dreams" is the closest thing to a Surprise Chef tune one would come to expect but then lead single "Bully Ball" comes on and you get the picture that they came to kick in the door on this one. The song's gritty drums thunder through the speakers and get covered with percussion, keys, bass, and guitar chanks that stay in the pocket and bring the funk with them. The band pushes the boundaries of arrangement with tunes like "Body Slam" that starts off like a sweet soul track then pulls a 180, turning dark and haunting, centering on a sound they created by tucking a timpani into a bathroom two doors down from the mixing board. That same sense of experimentation comes up again on "Fare Evader" where they pepper another neck breaking rhythm track with synth notes that sound like robot sound effects from a 70s sci-film. The fellas turn up the tempo for the dance with tunes like "Consulate Case" and "Tag Dag"; the former pulling influence from afro-funk and the latter from jazz-funk. They take us deep into the beautiful world of Surprise Chef ballads on "Websites" and double down on their abilities to make beautiful and ethereal tracks with "Dreamer's Disease". With their new album Superb, their new approach, and plans to tour the world, we are about to see Surprise Chef take the step from the underground's most beloved to a household name and we are definitely here for it.

Three LPs packed in a trifold jacket. Pressed on Deep Ocean Pearl, Gold & Dark Green Vinyl. Take up your sword, channel your magic or board your Mech. Chained Echoes is a 16-bit style RPG set in a fantasy world where dragons are as common as piloted mechanical suits. The game is set on the continent of Valandis during the time of a multi-generational war between three kingdoms, Taryn, Gravos and Escanya. After a great catastrophe caused by Grand Grimoire shakes the continent, the kingdoms agree to sign a peace treaty. One year later, an unknown force strives to begin a new war. A group of unlikely heroes joins forces and eventually becomes the clan of Crimson Wings in order to stop it. The outstanding soundtrack for Chained Echoes was passionately composed, arranged and recorded over four years by Eddie Marianukroh as well as many other musicians who worked under his direction. It includes 50 tracks at two hours in length. Even the game has been out for a while, Marianukroh's admiration and enthusiasm for the game and his addition to it remain undiminished: "It has been over two years now since the release of Chained Echoes, which is rather difficult for me to believe. Time really flies, and it's honestly a bit frightening when I think about it. But, despite that, when I listen to the music I've written for this game, I still very much remain proud of what I composed. I really did give my all for this soundtrack. I will forever be grateful to Matthias for trusting me with the music for his game. I can vividly remember how I felt when I first came across his project, and how I nervously reached out to him about the composer position. I truly, truly cannot thank him enough for giving me this memorable experience that I will always hold dear. Thank you, my friend."

Two Times Juno awards listed and 2 times Polaris price listed, Canadian Soul Star Tanika Charles unleash the new album "Reason To Stay that drops on May 16 via independent soul label Record Kicks. Reasons To Stay is Tanika Charles' fourth full-length album, and her most introspective to date. Where her songs have typically touched on romantic love and heartache, the core love and loss of this record is family focused. It has taken years for Tanika to be able to publicly reflect on the childhood trauma and family breakup that occurred during her teens. The majority of the album was composed by Tanika with the tight knit team of Scott McCannell (Lydia Persaud, Henry Nozuka), Kyla Charter (Aysanabee) and Chino de Villa (Jessie Reyez). Kelly Finnigan of the Monophonics joined in to mix the bulk of the project and apply some trademark analogue grit to Tanika's sheen. Guests include Quebec-based Soulful singer/songwriter Clerel on the last track "Win", as well as Toronto soul artists Aphrose and Claire Davis providing additional vocals. "I love this album. I love singing these songs. I love that it's made me step outside of my comfort zone. It's forced me to face the root causes of my own insecurities that I carry to this day. Why am I striving so hard to seek validation, and why take it so personally when it doesn't come? That distortion has prevented me from celebrating my own successes at times. This album is me trying to change that." "I love the conversations that have begun with these songs. It's about childhood trauma, but it's not a victim story. I'm doing well, despite the baggage I carry. I want others to be able to carry theirs too." In the last few years, Canadian Soul/R&B powerhouse Tanika Charles has transformed from an emerging solo artist to a commanding performer and bandleader, cementing her status as a staple in the Canadian soul scene. Her previous studio albums - "Soul Run" (2017), "The Gumption" (2019), and "Papillon De Nuit" (2022) - have propelled her to international acclaim, earning her two JUNO nominations, two Polaris Prize listings, and a growing global fanbase. Extensive touring across North America and Europe has further solidified her reputation, with standout performances at festivals such as Trans Musicales in France, Fusion Festival in Germany, Mostly Funk & Soul Festival and Jazz Festival in the UK, Holy Groove Festival in Switzerland, and Canarias Jazz Festival in Spain. She has also shared the stage Estelle, Mayer Hawthorne, Haitus Kayote, Lauryn Hill, Bedouin Soundclash and Macy Gray. Tanika's meteoric rise and undeniable artistry have been widely championed by outlets such as KCRW, KEXP, BBC6 Music, Exclaim!, CBC Music, Uncut Mag, PopMatters, Albumism .. further solidifying her position as a global soul sensation.

SLEEP THEORY"S meteoric rise since bursting onto the scene in 2023 has been nothing short of extraordinary. Their breakout single "Numb" smashed into the Top 10 on Active Rock Radio, introducing a sound that feels as polished as it is powerful-something most bands take years to master. Following that initial strike, tracks like "Fallout" and "Stuck in My Head" cemented their place as chart-topping heavyweights. But SLEEP THEORY isn"t just a studio phenomenon-they"ve cut their teeth on the road, delivering blistering performances alongside heavy hitters like Beartooth, Daughtry, and Falling in Reverse. From dominating festival stages at Welcome to Rockville and Sonic Temple to the electrifying chaos of Louder Than Life, their relentless touring schedule has forged a reputation for anthemic live shows that demand your attention. Now, 2025 is shaping up to be SLEEP THEORY"S defining year. Their highly anticipated debut album, Afterglow, drops May 16th, and it promises to be a revelation. Packed with razor-sharp songwriting, impeccable musicianship, and vocals that will leave you breathless, this is the record fans have been waiting for. With over 230 million streams and listeners devouring their music at a staggering 5 million streams weekly, Sleep Theory is on the verge of transcending rock"s boundaries to become one of the genre"s defining voices. Brace yourselves: Afterglow is more than just an album-it"s a statement of intent from a band destined to shake the foundations of modern rock.

Risk/Reward is the brainchild of New York based, London-born underground music scene veteran and Archivio Records owner Daniel Dutts.

The label fuses leading contemporary artists, with iconic 90s producers to create a playful yet sophisticated sound, firmly focused on creating dance floor magic!

The first EP showcases rising Philadelphia talents Post Play (Sweater & John Raffaele), whose previous excursion on Small Moves became a much sought after cult classic.

Danger is what’s commonly known by DJs as a “sure thing”, guaranteed to get the most stubborn of crowds moving. A cheeky bass groove, quirky stabs, hip hop breaks and scratched vocals, create a vibe best described as “if DJ Premier made a track for Wiggle in the late 90s”

Go blends vintage Nu Groove style NYC house with progressive and techy elements to create a unique dancefloor monster. warping speed garage style sub bass combines with punchy stabs, lush pads, trippy synth leads and skippy, swinging drums, creating an atmospheric but driving track, that keeps you guessing til the very end.

Bushwacka! channels his Plank-era heyday to create a remix of Danger that delivers multiple “what the f#%k was that?” moments, as he takes you on a breakbeat voyage with crisp percussion, devastating low end, hypnotic ragga vocals and a didgeridoo no less! A reminder of the man’s genius and genre-defining sound.

What I Meant To Tell You merges warm, J Dilla style sampled chords, with punchy 808s, a deep and warm bassline, dreamy pads and enchanting male/female call and response vocals. Perfect for a warm up or deep in the afters.

With heavy support from the likes of Dyed Soundorom, Tini, Harry McCanna and more, the Post Play boys are ready to add another buy on sight record to their growing discography.

re-release Refused ist eine schwedische Hardcore-Punk-Band, die im Januar 1992 aus der Band Step Forward entstand. Sie löste sich am 6. Oktober 1998 nach einem vorerst letzten Konzert auf. 2012 gab es eine kurze Reunion. Heute gelten Refused als ein zentraler europäischer Vertreter dieses Genres, doch in den Neunzigerjahren wurde der Formation nicht die Aufmerksamkeit zuteil, die ihr gebührt hätte. Soundtechnisch orientierten sich die Schweden anfangs stark an Vorbildern wie den Gorilla Biscuits, griffen aber auch auf Elemente aus dem Metal und Rock zurück. So enthielt ihr erstes Demo zum Beispiel auch eine Coverversion des AC/DC-Klassikers "Back In Black". 1994 veröffentlichte die anfängliche Straight-Edge-Band ihr Debütalbum "This Just Might Be The Truth" beim Label Startracks, das nun auch dessen Nachpressung mit dem Original-Artwork besorgte.

The East Sussex three piece take a sidestep to their country punk debut. The revamped sound is gritty and raw, with basslines that rumble with unfiltered intensity and drums that drive each track with pounding, relentless energy. The dark twang elements have not disappeared but if you break the surface you will find a restless undercurrent of electronic rhythms, adding complexity and tension. Andrew J Davies’ baritone vocals help answer the question you never knew you needed to ask. What would Lee Hazlewood guesting on a Leftfield track sound like?

In May 2000, pop princess supreme Britney Spears released her second studio album Oops!... I Did It Again, which features Stronger, Lucky and the title track Oops!... (red leather jumpsuits and the necklace from The Titanic were never looked at the same again!). The massive commercial success debuted at #1 in 20+ counties, selling 1.3 million copies in its first week, breaking the SoundScan record for highest debut album sales by a female artist.

Britney’s record was broken 15 years later in 2015 by Adele’s 25. Considered one of the best-selling albums of all time, to date, it has sold ~20 million copies worldwide. 25 years later, with Britney’s trailblazing influence still being seen in pop artists today, we are delighted to release a 25thANNIVERSARY EDITION 2-LP DELUXE vinyl release. Featuring an alternate cover, a 20-page booklet of never-before-seen and rarely seen photos of the era PLUS 2 new remixes, “Stronger (Adamusic Remix)” & “Oops!...I Did It Again (Pessto Remix)” on black vinyl

REPRESS of the highly acclaimed album. After the mind blowing success of the Witchcraft's album Legend, 2012, mastermind Magnus Pelander out did himself with "Nucleus". Combining what made its predecessor the modern classic it quickly became with elements of the band's earlier days, "Nucleus" is a melancholic, raging, fragile, melodic and at times noisy masterpiece between classic rock, doom and ambient music. With an all new line-up (Rage Widerberg on drums and Tobias Anger on bass) the band sounds more hungry and powerful than ever. In combination with the thrilling, yet very down-to-earth production by Pelander, Philip Gabriel Saxin and Anton Sundell, "Nucleus" throws you in dreamy sonic landscapes that will mesmerize and haunt you alike.

Magenta coloured vinyl, limited to 200 copies. REPRESS of the highly acclaimed album. After the mind blowing success of the Witchcraft's album Legend, 2012, mastermind Magnus Pelander out did himself with "Nucleus". Combining what made its predecessor the modern classic it quickly became with elements of the band's earlier days, "Nucleus" is a melancholic, raging, fragile, melodic and at times noisy masterpiece between classic rock, doom and ambient music. With an all new line-up (Rage Widerberg on drums and Tobias Anger on bass) the band sounds more hungry and powerful than ever. In combination with the thrilling, yet very down-to-earth production by Pelander, Philip Gabriel Saxin and Anton Sundell, "Nucleus" throws you in dreamy sonic landscapes that will mesmerize and haunt you alike.

OONA Recordings is proud to announce the upcoming release of the soundtrack for The Girl With The Needle by Frederikke Hoffmeier. Hoffmeier, whom performs under the stage name Puce Mary, brings a raw, intense and atmospheric score to this Oscar-nominated film, which is contending for Best International Feature. Known for her bold, experimental approach to sound, Hoffmeier’s composition immerses listeners in the film’s dark, emotionally-charged world. Directed by Magnus von Horn, The Girl With The Needle premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it earned praise for its uncompromising vision. The film went on to receive a Golden Globe nomination for Best Non-English Language Film and won two prestigious awards at the European Film Awards, including Best Score for Hoffmeier’s hauntingly powerful work. The score to The Girl With The Needle is as dark as it is compelling, a masterclass in creating tension, unease, and raw emotional weight. Hoffmeier’s sound design is equal parts abrasive and intimate, drawing the listener into a world of fractured beauty. Her use of organic textures, electro-acoustic undertones, and dissonant, atonal melodies challenges traditional notions of film music, offering something deeply visceral and unpredictable. The Guardian described Hoffmeier’s score as "nerve-abrading," highlighting the relentless, uncomfortable energy that underpins the film. The Chicago Reader similarly calls the score haunting, noting how it amplifies the film’s stark atmosphere. Drawing comparisons to the intense works of composers like Mica Levi, Awards Radar Magazine praises Hoffmeier for pushing the film’s emotional core to its breaking point, deepening the agony of the protagonist. Throughout the film, Hoffmeier’s score becomes as much a character as the people on screen. Her collaboration with von Horn is marked by a shared vision of pushing the limits of cinema and sound. Screen Daily describes the score as "daring," with its aggressive, contemporary tones standing in stark contrast to conventional film scores. The result is a uniquely modern, avant-garde work that reflects the film's visceral and unsettling nature. Hoffmeier crafts a world of sound that lingers long after the credits roll. The soundtrack’s fusion of organic instrumentation with electro-acoustic elements and bold industrial sounds sets it apart from the ordinary. The British Film Institute notes how Hoffmeier’s "atonal score" creates an "enervating effect," pulling listeners deeper into the film’s raw emotional depths. The combination of brutal sound design and haunting melodies builds a layered, evocative listening experience, one that grows increasingly intense with every listen.

Re-pressed for its 10th anniversary, Howl was London-based producer Ryan Lee West"s breakthrough album as Rival Consoles. With a new album due for release this spring, Erased Tapes have re-issued the artist"s third album for Record Store Day 2025.

Following the departure of Wire's drummer Robert Grey in 1990 WIR had risen phoenix like from the ashes of the acclaimed UK post-punk band after and were created to fulfil the final phase of Wire's Mute Records contract. With a more sequence based sound, WIR saw the band breaking all their own rules by creating a new sparse electronic music with Graham Lewis singing most of the vocals and even cannibalising their own catalogue by sometimes sampling their own older material. WIR was, however, not a long-term project and besides completing their only album, The First Letter, their only other activities were a very small number of gigs and two multi-artist "conceptual happenings" under the name I Saw You. One of these was in Clapham in April 1992 on election night and the other in Vienna in Feb 1993. On that Vienna trip, in addition to playing the gig, the band recorded a radio session for the Austrian national broadcaster ORF which was organised by Peter Rehberg - later the person behind MEGO & sadly no longer with us. This was released in 1996 by Touch on CD and consisted of two long tracks with a running time of almost 25 minutes. Once the short run of CDs had sold out, the rights technically fell to the band, and pinkflag released it - digital only - in 2007 and now released on vinyl for the first time. The remastered 2025 vinyl / CD / digital edition adds a newly recorded, Taylor Swift style re-recording of what is undoubtedly WIR's most pop moment, the dark brooding shadows of So and Slow. The version released here is based on how the band played it live, so, inspite of being instantly recognisable, it does not follow the arrangement of any previously released version.

Regina Spektor's 2006 break-out album is available on limited edition Yellow Flame vinyl. As the follow-up to 2004’s Soviet Kitsch, which was recorded live to tape, Begin to Hope sees Spektor’s first collaboration with producer David Kahne. She broadens her palette and expands her sonic vision with synth keyboards, drum machines, electronic loops, and layered vocal harmonies. The result is a trailblazing pop record. Includes “Fidelity”, “Better”, “On the Radio”, “Samson,”

5 Borough Breaks return with another classic 90s banger - this one lit up the airwaves of Hot 97 when it dropped back in 95. On the flip as always is the original sample source, this time from a recently departed soul icon

DJ Balli, master of breakcore extravaganza and Sindaco, the tropical-electro creator present Mutant Goth Italo: a mutant fusion between shiny Spaghetti-dance freshness and gloomy Goth music shadows, sung strictly in Italian by the androgynous voice of Ossydiana.

Out in April for -Belligeranza the S.B. sublabel dedicated to easygoing midsummer nightmares.

Heavily supported by Flight for years, we’re extremely excited to at last welcome the inimitable Quartz to p:m, who serves up a sublime 4-tracker for our 10th single. Deeper and more emotionally reflective than previous Quartz releases, this is transcendental music that takes you to outer space and beyond…

Tracklist:
A1. W.Y.N: cosmic pads, jungle-y breaks, and a colossal bassline evoke images of Jupiter and molten lava, while a seductive vocal riff you’ll hum for days weaves in and out. A dance floor favourite.

A2. Taking Me Down: tight rolling beats, sparkly vox, filtered fx, and bass snarls sound like a tug of war between Venus and Mars. Straight up D&B produced alongside Quartz’s childhood friend, Pennygiles.

B1. Trauma Response: diving further into Techno- and Autonomic-inspired territory, this title track is best described by Paul Woolford aka Special Request “Man this tune is f***ing nuts. Reminds me of Black Dog and half of Detroit but through our UK lens, but totally NOW.”

B2. What Is Real Love: an orchestral intro replete with timpani and violins gives way to the big question - what is real love? - almighty bass weight, and a healing, warm golden sun feel. Simply majestic.

Brand new Manchester imprint, 160 Street Recordings is excited to announce its first vinyl release, Evolutions EP, by the dynamic production duo of Response and Buda. With a reputation for carving out a distinctive uncompromising sound, the pair return with a gritty, dark collection of tracks that channel the deep, raw energy of early 90s Jungle and Jungle Techno.
Drawing influences from the breakbeat-driven sub-bass and atmospheric elements of that era, the Evolutions EP fuses heavy basslines, classic breaks, and dark, rave-inspired energy.
A1. Evolutions
The EP opens with the title track, ‘Evolutions’—a driving, atmospheric tune full of breakbeat intensity and underpinned by weighty sub bass. Kicking off with a memorable rave stab melody, the track builds with powerful percussion and a haunting, evolving soundscape that moves between light and dark.
A2. Fintons Dub
“Break, show ‘em something, but not too much….” ‘Fintons Dub’ brings a laid-back dubbed out groove, with a selection of classic breaks and a deep sub-bass foundation. An atmospheric pad and cinematic Kung Fu movie sample add depth to this cut, the breaks building gradually with delays as the track rolls out..
B1. Fintons Dub (Double 0 Remix)
No introduction is needed for Double 0, co-founder of legendary London club night Rupture and one of the pioneering figures of the original Hardcore Jungle Techno sound. His remix of ‘Fintons Dub’ takes the track back to his Doncaster warehouse roots, unleashing thunderous bass and breakbeat energy, a twisted mentasm and techno infused stabs. A true dancefloor weapon that embodies the true spirit of Jungle Techno.
B2. Acid Vein
Rounding off the e.p. is ‘Acid Vein’ a 303 led breakbeat bomb that infuses rolling breaks with a pounding sub bass and haunting jazz samples. Slower in tempo than the previous tracks and more reminiscent of the more formative years of rave, Acid Vein will also appeal to the wider breakbeat community.

Proudly presenting our reissue of the sought-after 1978 album 'Ritmo Y Sabor' from Cuban, master bongo player, Manteca. A deep, hypnotic, sonic excursion of Afro-Cuban/mambo rhythms to get lost within. Released in 1978, there are a number of different pressings of the album coming out on labels including GRC, Desca Records and Sound Triangle Records. Stripped-back and low-fi, this is a pulsating hit of instrumental Latin-jazz dance magic.

Predominantly made up of just percussion and bass, the album comes courtesy of Carlos "Rico" Ramirez on bass, Carlos Patato on congas, timbales by Nelson Padron and Lazaro Pla aka Manteca as band leader. A Cuban legend, Manteca rose to fame playing with Ernesto Lecuona and the Cuban Boys. Although he featured on numerous recordings in his home of Cuba, only a handful exist of his as featured soloist or band leader.

A whirlwind of percussive brilliance, ‘Ritmo Y Sabor’ is brimming with energy regardless of the tempo of the track. An instantaneous ability to make you move, the grooves come alive with each new rhythm introduced. Take for instance, the track 'Afro Funky' that more than lives up to its name. A breakbeat Latin-funk workout, with a mighty fine walking bass line that provides the basis for the drummers to vibe off. Elsewhere, 'Rumbon En Casa De Cando' is fast and furious perfect for the jazz dance specialist, whilst 'Sabor A Mantecado' keeps you on your toes with its trance-like repetitive bassline and percussive interplay. 'Cosa De Manteca' is another heavy-Latin funk gem with a rough and raw feeling of relentless yet groove-driven percussion.

A must-have Afro-Cuban, rhythmic funk triumph, that shows Manteca and his band in full flight

Extending the melodious and mad, three-decade story of Super Furry Animals projects by adding another bombastic and beautiful chapter, Huw Bunford, Cian Ciarán, Daf Ieuan and Guto Pryce reconvene to announce the release of their second album, Pando.

Meeting every pummelling motorway mile with the beat of their psychedelic-soul-house blend since the release of their debut, Official UK Breakers Album Chart No.1 album, DK.01, in late 2023, Das Koolies’ energetic return to festival fields, intimate venues and service station shopping has affected no distraction from their mission. Committing to more time on the road at the same time as sharing rich spoils from the studio, Das Koolies include Newport, Nottingham, London and Manchester in their live plans. Determinedly exploring capability and ambition, the band’s continued, restorative return to wired and wonderful, man-and-machine-based music, following years of psych-folk-rock experimentation as four Furries, hasn’t meant forgetting the past. Som Bom Magnífico’s tour story, combining wistful and weary memory, rests the band’s case.

Taking on the lead lyrical and vocal role, Daf Ieuan, says: “Hindsight and rose-tinted glasses. It’s a song about a time when it was normal to order a veggie breakfast in hotels as a concession to a healthier life style, then following up by requesting to see the ‘Breakfast Wine Menu’. As Lou Reed sang: "Wine in the morning!".
Everyone should live like that for a while. Could be for a couple of days or a couple of decades. We’ve never laughed so much, but never again.”

Extending the melodious and mad, three-decade story of Super Furry Animals projects by adding another bombastic and beautiful chapter, Huw Bunford, Cian Ciarán, Daf Ieuan and Guto Pryce reconvene to announce the release of their second album, Pando.

Meeting every pummelling motorway mile with the beat of their psychedelic-soul-house blend since the release of their debut, Official UK Breakers Album Chart No.1 album, DK.01, in late 2023, Das Koolies’ energetic return to festival fields, intimate venues and service station shopping has affected no distraction from their mission. Committing to more time on the road at the same time as sharing rich spoils from the studio, Das Koolies include Newport, Nottingham, London and Manchester in their live plans. Determinedly exploring capability and ambition, the band’s continued, restorative return to wired and wonderful, man-and-machine-based music, following years of psych-folk-rock experimentation as four Furries, hasn’t meant forgetting the past. Som Bom Magnífico’s tour story, combining wistful and weary memory, rests the band’s case.

Taking on the lead lyrical and vocal role, Daf Ieuan, says: “Hindsight and rose-tinted glasses. It’s a song about a time when it was normal to order a veggie breakfast in hotels as a concession to a healthier life style, then following up by requesting to see the ‘Breakfast Wine Menu’. As Lou Reed sang: "Wine in the morning!".
Everyone should live like that for a while. Could be for a couple of days or a couple of decades. We’ve never laughed so much, but never again.”

Ricardo Baez, a Milan-based DJ and producer, returns with his second single on Mule Musiq. Known for his regular party “Tropical Animal,” Baez launched a label of the same name and has released music on Toy Tonics and Live at Robert Johnson—the label of the renowned German club Robert Johnson. He continues to establish himself as one of the most promising artists in the scene. His latest release opens with a jazzy deep house track reminiscent of Larry Heard, followed by “Dark Room NRG,” a slowed-down take on '90s rave house. “Whisper Wood” reinterprets '90s Italian Balearic house with a modern touch, while “Animarara,” a highlight from his previous digital-only release, makes a return. The record closes with “The Life of Larry,” a cinematic breakbeat track. The variety showcased across the release speaks to the depth and range of Baez's musical vision.

Panos Alexiadis is a sound artist based in Athens, Greece, active in the field of contemporary electro-acoustic music. He founded and co-curated the tape label Thalamos, a home for exploratory sounds, where some of his own works also found their place. Marking a return after a period of (sonic) reflection, Cestrum Nocturnum is an album of remembrance and renewal. Through a lattice of self-sampled piano, fragmented voices, field recordings, and transient digital traces, Alexiadis composes a space of warmth—an electronic tapestry woven from the ephemeral. Across six pieces, sound unfolds like memory: layered, textured, dissolving at the edges yet leaving an imprint. A meditation on the cyclical nature of being and the often unnoticed beauty that quietly persists, even in the darkest hours. Cestrum Nocturnum is both a shelter and a signal.

--

The night has a thousand eyes,
And the day but one;
Yet the light of the bright world dies
With the dying sun.

The mind has a thousand eyes,
And the heart but one:
Yet the light of a whole life dies
When love is done.

Francis William Bourdillon, 1899

--

All music composed, recorded & mixed by Panos Alexiadis
Spoken word on 'But One' & ‘Follower' by Fotini Stamatelopoulou
'The Night Has a Thousand Eyes' poem by Francis William Bourdillon
Mastered by Christophe Albertijn

CADAVER, one of Norway's first and most influential death metal bands, has carved a distinctive path through the annals of extreme music. Formed in 1988 in Fredrikstad by Anders Odden (guitar/vocals) and Ole Bjerkebakke (drums/vocals), the band emerged from the ashes of their earlier black metal project, Baphomet. Their vision blended thrash and death metal with progressive influences from bands like Voivod and the chaotic insanity of Napalm Death, forging a sound that defied conventions. In 2024, Anders Odden delved deep into CADAVER 's history, unearthing unreleased material that offers a fascinating glimpse into the band's formative years. Before signing with Earache Records in 1992, CADAVER had worked on what would eventually become their second album, ...In Pains. During this period, they recorded raw and unpolished versions of many tracks in the same studio where Hallucinating Anxiety was born. These early recordings featured working titles that were later changed, and among them was a song titled "Maltreated Mind Makes Man Manic," which was never completed at the time. Anders revisited these hidden gems at Studio Tomb, located in Råde, Norway—the very place where CADAVER was first formed. With the old lineup reunited for this session, they finished the additional recordings necessary to bring their original vision to life. The result is Hymns of Misanthropy, a newly completed album from 1991 that will finally see the light of day through Listenable Records in April 2025. This release showcases CADAVER's unique approach to extreme music and highlights their previously underappreciated influence on the early Norwegian black metal scene. With Hymns of Misanthropy, listeners can experience a raw and powerful chapter of CADAVER's history, demonstrating once again that they were never just a typical death metal band. Instead, they remain an ever-evolving force that consistently pushes the envelope of what extreme music can achieve.

FABRICLIVE’s new incarnation as an artist-focussed label continues, with a stunning two-track 12” by the Hong Kong-born, Netherlands-based rising star Kiana Li, aka gyrofield.

Rooted in drum & bass but distinctly the sound of now, this single sparkles with freshness, and stands-out with an exquisite verve for detail and craft. Balmy and comforting, atmospheric and melodic, the cloudsurfing breakbeats and celestial propulsion of ‘Akin’ is pure friendly pressure, whilst on ‘Mother’ big vocals, low-end precision and techno swathes soar even higher.

“'Akin' and 'Mother' remind me of my earliest days writing dance music. These are two free-spirited, transportive pieces that feel like spreading my wings and letting the air take me. Brought skyward in the hand of fate, nurturing yet weathered by my very own ideals. We all wish for better days. And toil to heal.” gyrofield

gyrofield has released music on prominent labels including Critical, Overview and Noisia's Vision. Last year she released the album A Faint Glow of Bravery on Metalheadz, and the EP These Heavens for XL’s prestigious house bag series, which has previously showcased music by Blawan, Joy Orbison and Overmono.

gyrofield is a regular on NTS and an in-demand DJ, whilst radio/club support has come from Mary Anne Hobbs, Objekt, Special Request and DJ Flight. Press fans include Rolling Stone, Crack, The Quietus, The Fader, DJ Mag and Resident Advisor.

“Scintillating - a sonic portrait of heaven that takes drum & bass and imbues it with the divine” Resident Advisor

“An artist whose journey and sound are quite unlike those of anyone else” The FADER

“Her vivid productions are a breath of fresh air in the scene” DJ Mag

“Merging the atmospheric and experimental with the melodic and emotional” Crack

“Packed with shapeshifting sounds that examine the universe and beauty of nature. Fusing atmospheric and spaced-out sounds with danceable sonics” Dummy

"She will never sit comfortably in any one genre or play to expectations or rely on any standard production formulae” UKF

Back with a bang for 2025, FABRICLIVE re-enters the fabric Records fold, which also incorporates Houndstooth and fabric Originals.

Amerikan Kaos ist der Gitarrenvirtuose Jeff Waters (am besten bekannt von Annihilator). Jeff Waters hat insgesamt +1 Million Follower auf sozialen Medien. Amerikan Kaos ist einer der Hauptdarsteller im Handyspiel Rock Kommander. Das Album 'All That Jive' wurde bei Sterling Sound in Nashville von Ted Jensen gemastert.

Amerikan Kaos ist der Gitarrenvirtuose Jeff Waters (am besten bekannt von Annihilator). Jeff Waters hat insgesamt +1 Million Follower auf sozialen Medien. Amerikan Kaos ist einer der Hauptdarsteller im Handyspiel Rock Kommander. Das Album 'All That Jive' wurde bei Sterling Sound in Nashville von Ted Jensen gemastert.

Illusive Bristolian producer Claude Cooper returns with ‘Friendly Sounds Vol 1’; part psychedelic trip, part romping beat tape, part party. The album was inspired by the vinyl discoveries made from Cooper’s months of digging and cataloguing the bulging inventory of Bedminster’s Friendly Records record shop. Cooper fed these myriad captured sounds through the studio and then, blurring the lines between sampling and performance, arranged and embellished them with keyboards, drum machines, bass guitar and more, also co-opting BEAK> bassist Billy Fuller and esteemed composer Ben Salisbury to contribute.

With most of the tracks in and out within 90 seconds, the album is best enjoyed as a continuous course. Play side A, play the B, then flip it back and listen all over again. Stand out moments include tremulous cut ‘n’ paste jam ‘Jackie’, the moody string-laden ‘Rainbow Eternity’, funky sitar workout ‘Nerd Nork’, and atmospheric closer ‘Take Flight’. Sharing a similarly broad and experimental sound palette as the likes The Avalanches, Madlib, The Go Team, and Edan; ‘Friendly Sounds Vol 1’ is the soundtrack to a wild joyride down South Bristol’s North Street, foot on the gas, hand on the horn, LPs spilling from the boot.

Cooper’s irrepressible debut album ‘Myriad Sounds' (Jan ‘22) caught the attention of the UK's press and radio alike. Mojo's four star review described it as “Bristol’s beat scene backdrops late night jams”, Uncut enjoyed the "rugged psych-funk romp" and Louder than War declared "it’s vital and vibrant and exactly what we need to kick start the year”. Bonus round 'More Myriad Sounds' (Apr ‘23) added Brooklyn vocalist Brain Fog to the melange with a bounty of pyretic vocal performances. DJ Mag called it “A fierce, kaleidoscopic trip” while Bandcamp Daily said “This album of cross-genre influences is as likely to get it included in any number of best-of columns, with the theme of serious fun as their common element”. Called a "mysterious Bristol breaks scientist" by Lauren Laverne, BBC radio DJs including Cerys Matthews, Gideon Coe, Huw Stephens, Jamie Cullum, Stuart Maconie, and Tom Ravenscroft have rinsed Cooper’s tracks, with Huey Morgan inviting Cooper to contribute a Block Party Mix for his show.



‘Stay A While’, the first showing of Cooper’s new shop sampling stunners, was released on 7” in January ‘24. Lush string flourishes sliced with 6Ts girl-group vocals and rollicking piano chords resulted in a dreamy, end of night, lights up anthem in-the-making that The Arts Desk called “A horn-fired, beatsy, chop-around that recalls The Avalanches”. Releasing the album is Friendly Records, the best little record shop in Bristol and now a burgeoning record label. Opened by Tom Friend on North Street in 2016, it’s gone on to become a hub of the local musical community. As well as Claude Cooper, the label has released LPs by Alison Cotton, Floating World Pictures, Christian Madden & The Enemy Chorus, Nick Craft, as well as handling the War Child series of 7”s with BEAK>, Idles, J Dilla, PJ Harvey, Portishead, and Sleaford Mods + Hot Chip.



Claude Cooper will DJ at the one-day Friendly Festival on 10th May in aid of War Child, which will feature Sleaford Mods, Katy J Pearson, The 45s, Zalizo and DJ sets by Ishmael Ensemble, Heavenly Jukebox and Friendly Records DJs.

Following a trio of quick sell out, limited lathe cut 45 to kick off 2025, Feral Child now embark on a stash of more widely available full lengths (from the likes of Lake Ruth, The Jonny Halifax Invocation and Polypores amongst others). First up is a wonderful follow up to 2023’s “Refrains” 10” EP from Swedish band TAPE. “Refrains” figured in 2 or 3 notable UK stores’ end of year polls, noticeably Monorail in Glasgow where Stephen Pastel gave it a top 3 for 2023 nomination. “Preludes” is -if anything- even more majestic and acts as a superb follow up. The record is released 11th April on Feral Child as one time pressing 10” vinyl only release, featuring beautiful artwork once more from Peter Liversidge and the calligraphic hand of Klas Augustsson. The return of Swedish trio Tape has been reassuringly slow motion. They’ve always moved at their own pace, these three peripatetic musicians – brothers Andreas and Johan Berthling, and companion Tomas Hallonsten – though it’s been over a decade since their last full-length, 2014’s Casino. Not a disappearing act, rather a break for consideration, time to explore other avenues of creativity, perhaps… But their reappearance, with the Refrains 10”, was one of 2023’s most encouraging moments; doubly so, as it was proof they’d not lost their way, at all, in the intervening nine years. The Tape modus operandi is one of deceptive simplicity and artful innocence. On Preludes, a typically right, one-word Tape title, this means five wordless songs that move between fully fleshed out, lovingly tended folk threnodies – the beautiful opener, “Lights Out”, that spins webs via simple, hypnotically repeating guitar – and textural conceits that hover, appealingly, in a kind of no-place. “Naukluft Plateau” is lovingly dappled, with ruminative piano adrift on a cascading tonal waterfall. Then, feather-fall strums of guitar meet huffing harmonium and electronic scrum on the brief “Golden Gain”. Is there a more perfect song title for Tape than “Tangential Thoughts”? It sums up the way their music, nimble and dainty but also carefully tended, lends itself to the reverie, the meander, the anfractuous. The madeleine-like power of this song’s two-chord figure allows the music to take flight: rustling organ, oscillating cymbal, droplets of percussion, a spinney of sound. And Preludes slips away “On The Accordeon Bus”: there’s something lovely about the way that title collapses transit, articulation and bellows, reflected in the see-sawing sway and glitch-like rivulets of sound that course through the song. So, Preludes, then – alive to the moment, both gentle and sturdy. A copse of tone, and a most gorgeous wool-gathering.