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With Fuck, Marry, Kill, Tink delivers her most provocative and conceptually sharp body of work to date, firmly reclaiming her position as a premier storyteller in the modern R&B landscape. Moving beyond the diary-entry style of her earlier years, this project utilizes the titular game as a brutal yet honest framework for the complexities of modern intimacy. Tink navigates the chaos of the dating world with a dual-threat precision that few can match, seamlessly blending the grit of her Chicago rap roots with the velvet textures of contemporary soul. Under the executive production of Hitmaka, the album finds its heartbeat in the friction between high-gloss production and raw, unfiltered lyricism.

The album is meticulously structured to mirror the chaotic cycle of urban romance: the adrenaline of fleeting lust, the heavy stakes of long-term commitment, and the inevitable coldness of a bridge burned. In the "Fuck" segment, Tink radiates a lethal confidence, delivering anthems of autonomy and physical desire that demand space in the club and on the charts. As the project transitions into "Marry," she peels back the armor, offering a vulnerable look at the desire for stability and the terrifying leap of faith required to trust a partner. However, it is in the "Kill" section where Tink’s songwriting truly bites; here, she chronicles the aftermath of betrayal and the empowerment that comes from cutting ties, transforming her heartbreak into a weapon of self-preservation.

Ultimately, Fuck, Marry, Kill is a masterclass in "Toxic R&B" that refuses to settle for easy answers. Tink captures the specific anxiety of a generation trying to distinguish between a temporary thrill and a permanent soulmate, all while navigating a world of ghosting and digital infidelity. By leaning into her flaws and her triumphs with equal intensity, she creates a sonic space where listeners feel both seen and vindicated. This isn't just an album about love—it's a survival guide for the heart, narrated by an artist who has seen every side of the game and lived to write the definitive soundtrack for it.

THE HOBKNOBS - ein Projekt der Stimmen von LEWSBERG & THE KLITTENS - werden im Juli 2026 ihr erstes Album auf ihrem eigenen Label THK Records veröffentlichen! "Helmets Off" lässt sich als ein ehrlicher Versuch beschreiben, ehrlich zu sein. Obwohl im Moment der Entstehung alle Optionen offenstehen, bleibt das Endergebnis oft reduziert und schnörkellos. Instrumente setzen genau dann ein, wenn sie gebraucht werden - doch die Songs selbst scheinen gar nicht viel zu benötigen. Jedes Wort und jeder Gitarrenanschlag wirken so, als wären sie exakt im richtigen Moment platziert. Vielleicht ist es gerade diese Schlichtheit der Songs, die das Gefühl vermittelt, als würden The Hobknobs direkt zum Hörer sprechen. Es ist offensichtlich, dass sie nichts zulassen wollen, was diese menschliche Interaktion trüben könnte - eine Interaktion, die zudem eine gewisse Verspieltheit ausstrahlt. Yaël Dekker - dem einen oder anderen bekannt als Sängerin von The Klittens - und Arie van Vliet, der seine Botschaften einst mit der Band Lewsberg verbreitete, wurden einmal als "liebevolle Misanthropen" bezeichnet. Beim Hören des Albums erscheint diese Beschreibung durchaus treffend. Ein tröstlicher Song wie ,The Mind" wirkt eindringlich. In "Dictionary" scheinen selbst Worte ihre Bedeutung verloren zu haben. Lieder, die zunächst fröhlich und naiv wirken, entpuppen sich beim zweiten Hinhören als eindringliche Appelle. Und ist "Enarmoured" etwa ein Protestsong, der den Krieg befürwortet? Welchen Krieg wollen sie eigentlich führen? Die Stimmen von Dekker und Van Vliet scheinen bestens miteinander zu harmonieren; dieses Zusammenspiel hebt die Songs auf "Helmets Off" über ihre trügerische Einfachheit hinaus. In Kombination mit der minimalistischen Produktion von Jaap van der Velde trifft das Album genau den richtigen Punkt zwischen "sofort vertraut" und "einzigartig - niemand sonst klingt so wie sie". Karina Gill von der in San Francisco ansässigen Band Cindy schrieb über The Hobknobs: "Um die Musik von The Hobknobs zu beschreiben, ist das Wort "natürlich" treffend. Gemeint ist damit: Sie ruht in sich selbst; sie ist im Grunde - wenn auch auf höfliche Weise - daran desinteressiert, ob man ihr gerade zuhört oder nicht. Man mag an frühen Rock 'n' Roll denken - und dabei an dessen energiegeladene Lässigkeit und ehrliche Reduktion, frei von jeglicher Sentimentalität. Musikalisch und textlich greifen die Elemente der Songs perfekt ineinander; sie offenbaren ihren Fluss, ohne jedoch dazu zu verleiten, sie in ihre Einzelteile zerlegen zu wollen. Das Duo Yaël Dekker und Arie van Vliet schätzt die Musik des jeweils anderen schon lange, doch ihre Zusammenarbeit hier ist kein geschlossener Dialog - sie ist zugleich umgangssprachlich und intellektuell anspruchsvoll, und wir sind eingeladen, daran teilzuhaben, sofern wir mithalten können. So wie etwas Natürliches eine gewisse Gelassenheit ausstrahlt, manövrieren sich The Hobknobs geschickt in eine Position, in der wir an ihrer Seite stehen, mit ihnen hören und sehen und feststellen: Jeder Song ist ein Ort, an dem man gerne verweilt."

Gulp Joachim Nordwall’s queasiest, most curdled synth tones on this supremely detuned co-op with Athens’ Stellage crew = 45 minutes of pure nasal-drip tang and gungy pulses tipped FFO Connor Camburn, Wolf Eyes, Conrad Schnitzler, Ilpo Väisänen’s Liima alltimers.

Joachim Nordwall’s 1st solo jaunt since capping the ‘Healing Music’ series in ’23 finds the DIY linchpin and serial collaborator coaxing potently psychoactive tones from an undisclosed set up. It appears to be one of his most intently focussed jags in recent memory, concentrated on juicing a paucity of ingredients for optimal flavour. Nothing that new then? Well, aye, but when he really gets into it, with an effect that really probes parts of the psyche untouched by anything we’ve heard from him before, he produces synaesthetic sounds that frankly makes our ears salivate.

A starting exercise in plucky pulse-work recalling Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe initiates a real descent into the nether regions of Nordwall’s imagination, pulling into sepulchral drone on ‘Trance Recording’ and Droog wet dream material on ‘Abandoned Test Site’, while allowing for some levity in the lacquer-crackling pulse poem ‘Expand Your Mind’. However, he soon pitches back into resonant, metallic sonorities with durational conviction on a ‘Some Skies Overlap’ bringing to mind Connor Camburn works, but with an icier edge, and his title track spews molten drums in a rumbling, spark-spitting torrent.

Proper filth. Snorkel it!

“WAR.POEM” was recorded at THE ROCK NOIR studio in 2025/2026 as a reaction to a piece I read on the Israeli military use of FLECHETTE SHELLS in Gaza, this led to a much deeper study of the 20th/21st century history of war. The album was composed entirely using a TAPE O MATIC 710 reel to reel from 1958, a 1960’s mayfaair JVC reel to reel, aa 1965 G.E. solid state portable reel to reel from 1965, a portable 1970’s Panasonic cassette player, a ring modulator as well as various other effects and synths.
The loop that is the basis for WAR POEM ZERO which takes up the whole of side one, happened by accident when I put a reel on the wrong way up, it produced aa sound of such great melancholy and beauty, I just let it play…
This album owes a debt to “SWANSONG” by NURSE WITH WOUND from the album “A MISSING SENSE” where experimental sound is used as an anti war protest.
Chris Connelly 2026
You are unlikely to hear a record of such brutal intensity, or indeed authenticity as this. To call it “old school industrial” would be to do it a disservice, but also not THAT wide of the mark. It is packaged sympathetically to Chris’ previous release for the label, the long sold out LP “White Phosphorous”.
It is limited to 300 copies pressed in military grey vinyl.

His technical fluency and electronic sensibility place groove at the centre of his language, allowing him to control density, space and pulse with clarity. Across work with Loyle Carner, Jordan Rakei, Petter Eldh and Alfa Mist, his playing remains recognisable - elastic, deliberate and grounded in feel. Released on Edition Records, the album marks a new chapter with Spaven stepping forward as a bandleader and composer with a clear focus. The music is built from the inside out - groove shaping harmony, texture shaping form. Studio and live performances follow the same intent: direct, physical, locked into the pocket. The result is controlled intensity, where technique serves expression, and the music moves freely across genres without losing its centre of gravity

Through an intimate, conversational approach, free from any trace of mannerism, pianist Enrico Pieranunzi and guitarist Bebo Ferra probe the innermost mystery of a genius whose expressive language combined charm and intellect are in equal measure. Drawing on languorous ballads at unhurried tempos, the program alternates reinterpretations of emblematic Evans themes - 'Song for Helen', 'Very Early', 'Once Upon a 'Summertime' - with a series of inspired original pieces. Occasionally joined by the deep, reassuring double bass of Diego Imbert ('Song for Helen', 'Calling Enrico'), they move from post- romantic atmospheres to more introverted lyrical passages, steering clear of both sentimental excess and detached formalism.

2026 Repress

SHDW's label Mutual Rytm rounds out another year with 'Symbiosis' - an excellent split EP from Greek artists ANNE & Sera J, featuring six fresh cuts and four digital bonuses.

The release title comes from the Greek word 'Symbiosis', which means living closely together for a significant period and can be used to speak of a mutually beneficial interaction between individuals. And that is precisely what can be said of ANNE and Sera J, who have grown through life as partners and, more recently, as musical peers. This split EP is their first release alongside one another, and one that presents the story of their innermost feelings, with their full label debut following fine contributions to the label's 'Federation Of Rytm II' compilation back in March.

ANNE has had a busy few years making her mark with potent techno on labels such as Soma, Hardgroove, and Life In Patterns, while Sera J is just as revered for his tunes on the likes of Out Of Place, DifferentSound and more.

ANNE takes the A-side, firstly with the fiery diva vocals and thumping techno drums of 'Heal My Soul' and then the more physical and banging drum programming of 'Turn Back Time'. It's a big, metallic cut with rumbling bass and sleek synths peeling off the groove, while her final track 'Zephyrus' has plenty of infectious bounce and eerie pads to keep dancers on their toes.

On the flip, Sera J kicks off with the electrifying synth stabs and cantering techno power of 'Blue Dancers' and then offers up 'Common People' as twisted leads and slamming drums all run through with alien sound effects and bright stabs. To close, 'Delusion' is a psychedelic cut with roaming leads that bring plenty of cosmic energy to the unrelenting kicks.

In addition, each artist serves up a pair of digital bonuses: ANNE with the hurried funk of 'Serene' and loopy intensity of 'Victor', and Sera J with the liquid, dubby dynamics of the hard-hitting 'Intensity' and monstrous energy of 'Bodies Don't Lie.'

Auckland-based indie-pop outfit Borderline officially plant their flag in the New Zealand music scene with their self-titled project, Borderline. Seamlessly blending the nostalgic warmth of classic indie-rock with the polished, infectious hooks of modern pop, the band delivers a sonic snapshot of youth, ambition, and navigating the fine line between late-night euphoria and introspective vulnerability. Driven by shimmering guitar lines, driving bass rhythms, and anthemic vocals, the project feels both intimately local and ready for a global stage.

Borderline serves as a definitive introduction to the band’s signature sound, trading in sun-drenched, feel-good anthems built for summer road trips alongside high-energy tracks that tackle the fast-paced nature of modern relationships. By balancing cinematic storytelling with irresistible hooks, the up-and-coming band crafts a listening experience that is both fresh and deeply relatable, securing their place as a compelling new voice to watch out of New Zealand.

Shiverstruck, the latest album from IAN SWEET, finds songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jilian Medford at her absolute best. Produced and mixed by Ben Allen (Deerhunter, Washed Out, Belle and Sebastian), the record centers a deliberate return to analog instrumentation, with acoustic guitars, piano, strings, and live drums at the forefront. Medford’s writing is more confident, direct, and emotionally exposed than ever, with soaring, melodic tracks like “Criminal Kissing” and “Jilian” revealing a striking new dimension of IAN SWEET.

IAN SWEET’s music has amassed millions of streams worldwide and earned praise from FADER, The New York Times, Stereogum, The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, and Pitchfork, which named Show Me How You Disappear one of the Best Rock Albums of 2021 and profiled Medford as a Rising artist that same year.

MADMADMAD’s EP “Overload” is a thrillingly chaotic, genre-warping ride —think Mr Oizo on acid— that fuses fuzzy basslines, jagged guitars, and analog synth delirium into a dancefloor-ready collage of sound. From the Kraftwerk-tinged pulse of “Overload” to the acid-soaked, breakneck energy of “The Way” channeling The Chemical Brothers or Gesaffelstein, the record constantly shape-shifts while maintaining a raw, propulsive core. Tracks like “Mezcal” drift into hypnotic, minimal grooves reminiscent of Aphex Twin, while “Tout le Monde” and “Turn It Up” inject playful, off-kilter funk inspired by Tom Zé, Prince, ESG, and Beck. The title track closes on a high with a gritty, disco-infused groove nodding to early Daft Punk. Across the EP, MADMADMAD embrace disorientation as an artistic statement, drawing inspiration from Dadaism to mirror the overwhelming, information-saturated chaos of modern life.

“Leviathan’s Desire” was Protector’s first release with Olly Wiebel as the new man on the microphone, and he brought in a new and different style, one no less gruff and aggressive than that of his predecessor. With the “Leviathan’s Desire” EP, Protector left the musically mid-paced path they had followed on “Urm the Mad”, turning back to their key skills and delivering a short but sweet-and-extreme thrash metal attack. The EP contains a revised and extended version of “Kain and Abel” that fits in perfectly with the new tracks, which are full to the brim with raging riffs and violent hooks, relentlessly delivered by a band that’s fully aware of its great skills and abilities both with regard to song-writing and performance – rhythm changes, breaks and bridges are all thoroughly worked out and excellently delivered. But do not fear! There are no signs of giving in to any ideas of embracing the “progressive” side of Protector. This is still pure Teutonic Thrash to the bone. “Leviathan’s Desire” was recorded in the Phoenix Studio Bochum in 1990 and originally released by German label Atom H (based in Witten, North Rhine-Westphalia) in the same year. Ralph Hubert of Mekong Delta fame took over production duties of the record. Olly is very glad to see the vinyl re-release of “Leviathan’s Desire”, which has been mastered for vinyl by old comrade Patrick W. Engel at Temple of Disharmony. Protector also opened up their dusty cabinets to present us with a selection of previously unreleased pictures from those still good old days, which will be gracing the High Roller edition of “Leviathan’s Desire”.

High Roller Records, reissue 2022, black vinyl, ltd 250, lyric sheet, poster, mastered for vinyl by Patrick W. Engel/ Temple of Disharmony
“Urm the Mad” was Protector’s sophomore album, recorded in the summer of 1989 at the Phönix Studio in Bochum, where the four-piece from Wolfsburg had already recorded their killer full-length debut “Golem”. Urm the Mad” was to become the last album before the split in 2003 that features Martin Missy; he should be replaced by Olly Wiebel in December 1989. Protector did not change too much about their style – genre-defining early thrash/death – but one of the most notable things about “Urm the Mad” was the sound: The album is famous for its heavy, noisy, dirty sound, for its raw production that makes the music all the more evil and menacing, with guitars in the front and Martin’s unmistakeable vocals lying on the riffs like poisonous mould. “Urm the Mad” is thrash metal walking the path of death. Protector’s special blend of thrash and death metal has always set them apart from their compatriots and even inspired German metal tabloid Rock Hard to declare Protector to be “Germany’s hardest band” – and this in 1989, the year both Kreator’s “Extreme Aggression” and Sodom’s “Agent Orange” were released! Protector, too, play fast and energetic thrash, but the overall feel of the album is that of creeping, lurking evil – crawling along on frequently slowed down, heavy riffs and Martin Missy’s sick death-like growls which seem to come straight from the charnel house. “Urm the Mad” does not sport that “positive” aggression usually found in 80’s thrash; on the contrary, the album is grim, dark and desperate, but nonetheless brutal and extreme. Back in the days, Protector’s contribution to the then-proliferating Teutonic thrash was mainly recognized within the underground scene, and the metal press played its own part in keeping Protector a bit below the radar: “We got pretty much the same response as we got for ‘Golem’: Good, positive feedback from our fans and ‘ok’-reviews from the bigger metal magazines.” Time to make up for that.

Having made their back catalog available to a wider public via High Roller Records, Mexican speed and thrash metal force Phantom will release their third full-length assault „Not Midnight Yet“ via the label. Recorded and mixed once again with Héctor “Northen” Ibarra at Nehtron Studios in Guadalajara and mastered by Patrick W. Engel at Temple Of Disharmony in Germany, this new album captures the band at their most technical and dynamic. “I am never fully satisfied with my records and I try to push forward and expand our boundaries with every new material—without changing the soul and core of what Phantom stands for: Old School Heavy Metal,“ explains mastermind J.C. García. „This record puts together very well everything that we are. Because of that, I think this is a juggernaut of an album.” Tracks such as ‘Hordes Of Bats’ deliver relentless speed and riff-driven aggression, while ‘Dracula’s Curse’ and the title track lean into powerful midtempo dynamics and complex structures. ‘The Pale Remains Of Time’ stands out as one of the album’s most ambitious moments, combining melodic vocals, clean guitar interludes and subtle progressive touches. “I try to break the established formula and add more textures and layers while keeping the old school spirit,” J.C. states. “It’s a very personal record and a work I’m very proud of. I think this is the most solid Phantom record to date.” With “Not Midnight Yet”, Phantom sharpen their identity and deliver a powerful, atmospheric statement—proof that the night is far from over.

One of the biggest “re-discoveries” of obscure eighties US Metal/Hard Rock are Ashbury from Tuscon in Arizona. The band, led by brothers Randy and Rob Davis, did originally record two very hard to find albums: »Endless Skies« in 1983 and the (belated) follow-up »Something Funny Going On« (issued in 2010). However, the roots of the band go way back to the late 1970s, when multi-instrumentalist Randy Davis formed his very first band (called Ashbury South) in Southern Oklahoma in late 1977. The original vinyl edition of »Endless Skies« came out in 1983 (with a circulation of 1,000 copies). ”It was a complete indie project all the way,” states Rob Davis. “We worked mostly on a budget of $ 5,000 for the entire project. Our distribution was through Tower Records in the western United States.” Ashbury's sound has sometimes been compared to Jethro Tull and the Davis brothers are indeed not too unhappy about this comparison: ”We both have a big smile on our face with that question,” they explain. “Yes, we are proud to be compared with Jethro Tull.” Ashbury's first album does feature an iconic artwork. Who was responsible for it and what does the cover signify? ”The cover signifies Creation, and the choices we all make,” elaborate Rob and Randy. “The cover obviously coincides with the opening song 'The Warning', about the Prophet who warns against bad choices, evil and greed. The final touch was a 'fantasy' setting, a look just off from any real world appearance.” Randy and Rob Davis are playing as brothers in Ashbury, they have always been the core of the band: ”We would not continue performing as Ashbury without both being involved. We write independently, and also together, therefore the very creation of the music would be different if one of us left the band. We also both sing lead vocals, so the sound of the band would be altered. I might refer to a recent tour concerning Styx - touring without Dennis DeYoung - therefore it's NOT Styx.”

"Throughout 2025, New West Records has been releasing limited edition vinyl reissues of Corb Lund’s back catalog as part of the Corb Lund Dark Horses Club. Each installment featured bonus tracks, previously unreleased material, and an exclusive acoustic track available only digitally. Now, as the series reaches its culmination, New West Records and Corb Lund are releasing Dark Horses on both vinyl and CD.

Dark Horses is a collection of songs hand-picked by Corb from across his catalog, presented in chronological order and rerecorded as solo acoustic performances. Stripped down and intimate, these new versions offer a fresh perspective on familiar material — and the result is an illuminating listening experience that showcases the depth and craft of Corb’s songwriting."

Hausu Mountain co-founder Maxwell Allison returns to the label under his moniker Mukqs with an hour-long progressive ambient statement entitled Juckport. Performed live on a solitary sampler in a single take, the album shifts from warp-speed blasts of glitch to iridescent jazz fusion piano sketches to expanses of ecstatic synthesis. Allison's improvised approach to live sound collage blends innumerable layers of texture and oblique harmony into a continually thrilling electro-acoustic mosaic. Each track begins as a bank of samples sourced from Allison’s collection of synthesizers, drum machines, and field recordings, arrows pointing in a direction but without established counterpoint. Spontaneity, and the sometimes chaotic juxtapositions it engenders, undercut any traces of machine logic in the music as it expands and contracts organically. It is the product of hands moving in real space, in real time, for an extended period. Juckport is animated by a duality of glitched-out abstraction and intangible bliss. Synthesizer pads stretch beyond the imagination’s horizon line, counterbalanced by a churn of clipped samples that scatter across the stereo field like rapidfire psychedelic flashbacks. Cohesion emerges through textural continuity and development rather than repetition or pattern-making. Blink and innumerable details might slip by unnoticed, and the landscape might have shifted entirely. Still, as more viscous sounds enfold the listener, they communicate a calm, settled mindset, reflecting the motion of a creative mental state; large amounts of information are synthesized into a focused stream that reacts intuitively with the introduction of each new complicating element.

Marking the band's long-awaited recording return, the 7-inch release features the
title track "Pandemonium" alongside the exclusive B-side "Candlelight", available
exclusively on vinyl and omitted from the digital release.
With "Pandemonium", DEATH SS once again channel their unmistakable artistic vision,
transforming apocalyptic imagery, esoteric symbolism and occult references into a striking
metaphor for today's world. Demons, broken seals and the Great Beast become powerful
symbols of war, fanaticism, mass manipulation, collective anger and the profound spiritual
crisis affecting modern society.
As always, DEATH SS invite listeners to explore multiple layers of interpretation beyond the
song's narrative. Beneath its dark imagery lies a reflection on human consciousness and the
urgent need for inner awakening, reinforcing the symbolic and philosophical approach that
has distinguished the band throughout its entire career

"Paired Works is a double EP by Justine Perry and Paula Koski, developed in parallel within the same time and environment. Evolving through years of shared surroundings and creative exchange, the record emerges as a natural extension of that connection.
Produced separately, the tracks document two distinct inner worlds shaped through proximity. Justine Perry leans into deep, hypnotic forms, while Paula Koski moves through dubby and spacious structures driven by texture.
Across four sides, the record shifts between focused, forward-moving passages and more atmospheric moments, creating a subtle push and pull. Rather than settling into one singular moment on the dancefloor, it stretches across the shifting phases of a long club night.
Timeless and elegant in its approach, Paired Works marks the debut release on Ostgut Ton for both artists.“

Super-cosmic Dub album by bass & keys wizard Slim Levy, full of song writing magic and it’s very own cassette tape mojo.

Fourteen beautifully messy dub tracks, psychedelic floor movers and short curveball riddims, inspired by Lee Perry’s radical mixing desk treatment on “Dub Revolution” but infused with the musicality of the “Pet Sounds” album by the Beach Boys.

Initially a professional bassist, Slim Levy fell in love with the golden age of Jamaican music of the 60s and 70s after a formative tour alongside the legendary Lee “Scratch” Perry.

In 2020 he launched his career as a producer. At his home studio in Strasbourg / France he is always on the search for sound artifacts and magic imperfections, shaping his distinct sound.

There’s a new sound shaking up the Upper East Side — and it’s not related to Serena this time.

It’s ‘gg’, the new track from Lolina.

We've all heard the rumors of L performing this one around the globe for months, & some of the lucky ones got the chance to catch it live... but now the wait appears to be over for the general public. There are officially plans to release the studio version of ‘gg’, and it's safe to say the track is scandalous. Meeting same time, same place to get to the bottom of it all. Confusion lingers, yet everything stays comfortably in strife. It all keeps moving.

Who is the city even for now? What’s our own involvement in the distress? That’s one secret I’ll never tell!

Why is it that L must use song to persist in this city that never sleeps? Have fables fallen so out of fashion that princesses have to do everything themselves now?

Well... according to some tips we received this doesn't seem to be the case. L has enlisted help from some very exciting sonic connoisseurs, resulting in remixes stronger than a knight in shining armor could ever provide.

So let's check out this track list, shall we?

A-Side
gg (Extended Version)
gg (NEW YORK Remix)

B-Side
gg (Arca Remix)

Sounds like the perfect soundtrack for eating a yogurt cup on the steps of the MET to me.

We seriously doubt you'll be able to ignore this release.
Run the credits, roll the dice.

xo xo
GOSSIP GIRL

Press release by Kaitlin Simotics
Mastering and additional mixing by Amir Shoat
Artwork by Lolina
Vinyl design by Termite Lounge

Glasgow techno institution Soma Records celebrate 35 years with specially-curated SOMA35 EP remix series Celebrating a truly vital and enduring presence in the global techno landscape, Soma Records’ 35 Year anniversary project will be brought to life through a series of specially-curated remix EPs. Co-founded in 1991 by the iconic electronic music duo Slam, Dave Clarke, and Glenn Gibbons, the Glasgow-based Soma label is a techno institution. With a long-standing reputation for quality and longevity, the imprint has played a foundational role in the development of techno both in the UK and worldwide, and in the discovery and support of exceptional musical talent. Showcasing the breath of Soma’s reach across the techno scene past and present, the SOMA35 EP project brings together a selection of the biggest names in techno that Slam and Soma have worked with over the years, alongside new artists whose sound naturally aligns with the label’s distinct sonic identity. It’s only fitting that label heads Slam kick off this landmark project, marking a colossal milestone - the label’s 700th release - with ‘SOMA 35.1’. This specially-curated release features powerful reinterpretations of Slam’s seminal track “Vapour” by Mark Broom and FJAAK, alongside fresh remixes of the classic “Program” by Vril and Linear Phase.

*repress*

Phonica unveil the second in a series of three 12" samplers featuring a selection of tracks from their new compilation 'Ten Years Of Phonica'.

Phonica favourite Lo Shea kicks off Sampler number 2 with the ominous 'Home', a bassline-heavy house cut that continues on from his streak of high quality and inventive 12" releases on Seaghdha. Medlar and Red Rack'em join forces for the submerged 'Morning Light'. It's deep house in its truest form and here's hoping they continue to collaborate, because on the basis of this, they're onto something very special.

Moiré is another producer Phonica have been hugely impressed with, his highly original 12"s for Werk Discs and Rush Hour blew us away and his contribution 'Solar Signs' doesn't disappoint. Cult producer STL rounds out the 12" with 'Freaky Fingers'. His distinctively twisted take on house and techno is in full effect on this one, whistles and all. As STL releases on labels other than Something or Smallville are a rarity, it's yet another coup for Phonica.

Phonica Records was established in September 2003 and set up shop in Soho, London, adding to the high concentration of independent records stores that inhabited the area. Founders; Simon Rigg, Heidi Vanden Amstel and Tom Relleen joined The Vinyl Factory with the aim of creating an exciting outlet for innovative dance music, traversing all sub-genres and cultures. Over the past decade the emporium has developed into a well-respected destination for DJs and enthusiasts, and has subsequently become a bustling hive of conversation and inspiration as part of a wider community of music lovers.

While trends and movements in music have grown and faded over these years, Phonica has always remained in a state of evolution. It is this openness to change alongside a commitment to it's original ethos and an enduring ardour for quality, cutting-edge sounds that has fuelled the shop's staying power.

To celebrate reaching this milestone, Phonica Records have invited some of their favourite artists to produce a track for an eclectic yet cohesive compilation, which will hopefully go some way towards sonically unfolding the 'Ten Years of Phonica.'

Channeling his trademark style of driving techno and robotic rhythms, Phase Fatale makes his Dekmantel UFO series debut, upping the ante with his forward cutting production methods. His first solo release in 2 years, the Berlin-based DJ, Producer and Label owner hotwires his signature wall of sound with precise, hypnotic magnetism and dystopian textures.

A key protagonist in Techno’s lexicon as a regular in the booth at ∄ in Kyiv and with residencies at queer collective Merge in New York, alongside institutions Berghain and Khidi. The New York native’s unflinching mutualism of past and present comes forward in his introspective production style of textural waves and melancholic narrative, welded together by true techno formation. A deep referential lens cutting through layers of whirling cybernetics form his sonic coil, surrendering the listener into dissociative euphoria.

Underpinned by a focus on bass heavy techno, the 4-track EP circulates an ebb and flow of surrealist, atmospherics and whirring futuristic frequencies. Hypnosis inducing polyrhythmic analog sequences, flesh-out the EP’s core whilst the track progression traverses over a terrain of experimental cuts, driving beats, and oscillating sonic shrapnel. A culmination of influences spanning techno born out of Birmingham and Detroit alike form an architecture of stripped back electronics alongside soulful melodies, as well as references to acid house, post-punk and shoegaze. The title track ‘Off Desire’ a nod to longtime friend and collaborator the late Silent Servant, evokes a dream like crescendo between David Lynch and the sci-fi body tech of David Cronenberg, electric stabbing beats are offset by wistful guitar riffs and the digital rain of ethereal distorted vocals as if echoes from the void.

Als eine der prägendsten und einflussreichsten Künstlerinnen unserer Zeit vereint die mehrfache Grammy- und BRIT-Award-Gewinnerin Charli xcx Musik, Mode und Film wie keine andere. Ihr mit Spannung erwartetes neues Album „Music, Fashion, Film“ erscheint am Freitag, den 24. Juli, und führt ihren visionären Mix aus Mainstream und innovativem Underground perfekt fort. Das Meisterwerk enthält bereits gefeierte Tracks wie „SS26“ und „Rock Music“ und besticht durch ein ikonisches Cover von Aidan Zamiri, auf dem Legenden wie John Cale, Marc Jacobs und Martin Scorsese zu sehen sind.

Following the solid showing of global love and support for the collective Point Winona Sound Library Vol 1, LA’s Elbow Grease label runs it back with a sultry summer scene LP entry from one of the compilation’s most promising new talents.
Nashville-born/LA-bred Michael Griffin aka Gryph’s aptly-titled debut album Nash Angeles is a rare and refreshing example of true musical worlds colliding, that never loses focus of keeping the big fun in funky. The Tennessee-raised rock and blues guitarist/singer-songwriter’s newfound passion for dance music roots and devotion to the sonic feels of his current Cali home base are on full display here. Along with the studio-ace touches of co-producer Dave Aju and a cast of brilliant feature vocalists and live session musicians, the LP offers up only the most adventurous twists on contemporary genre fusion - from disco to dub, modern soul to post-punk, italo to r&b, and jazz-funk to classic house music, all while firing loved-up arrows straight through the hearts of any dance floors or fellow party animals, just in time for open-air bbq season
Already in heavy support rotation by legends such as: Glenn Underground, Francois K, Bill Brewster, Daniele Baldelli, Pete Herbert, Louise Chen, Graeme Park, Felix Joy, DJ Rocca, Massimiliano Pagliara, and many more..

In order to celebrate their 20 years anniversary Permanent Vacation is releasing a series of EPs with some of their core artists and friends of the past two decades. First EP comes stacked with high quality tracks from Lauer, Midnight Magic, Pional, Curses and PV's own Benjamin Fröhlich. The
music is in a fabulously Permanent Vacation tradition and covers the spectrums from Disco, Italo, beefy House and poppy Electronic.

"Compared to its 2013 predecessor, Am, TRU is less late-’80s Dino Jr., more early-’90s Sebadoh: While Ovlov are still as wonderfully wooly ever, they’re unleashing the noise in more purposeful, sculpted spurts and displaying a greater willingness to let their melodies sparkle through the clouds of distortion. Tuneful, feedback-slathered surges like “Half Way Fine” and “Spright” feel as comfortable as a beaten-up pair of Chuck Taylors, introducing dramatic dynamic shifts and savvy melodic change-ups to keep you on your toes. You may not always be able to make out Hartlett’s lyrics amid the cyclonic fuzz, but the despondence and disillusionment in his voice always cut through loud and clear. And when he can’t quite find the right words, he and fellow guitarist Morgan Luzzi unleash that simmering angst through nonverbal means, like the roiling guitar tsunami that brings the hazy-headed “Baby Alligator” to a cataclysmic close.

-Stuart Berman, Pitchfork

DYING VICTIMS PRODUCTIONS is proud to present the highly anticipated debut album of Poland’s TORPOR, Ɖungeon Ɖescent, on CD and vinyl LP formats. TORPOR were formed in Warsaw by three school friends and music fans under the huge influence of Bathory. While recording their first release, Burning Realms / Behold the Spell of Black Fortress, in dusk of 2017, the band were laying their music foundations inspired by the epic side of black and the haunted / melancholic side of early ‘80s heavy metal. Since their last release – 2021’s The Ancient Tales EP, which was actually recorded in 2019 – TORPOR parted ways with their drummer, who alongside Mike Magister I.V. and Franciszek Archont, was a founding member of the trio. Upon the arrival of a new drummer and long-time friend, Bloodhammer, they recorded their debut album. It marks the result of their work and path undertaken. "We knew it was our direction to follow and polish, so now, after some time, we can happily present our debut album, Ɖungeon Ɖescent,” the band state. “It is our first real record that pictures our vision exactly how we liked to. After years of wandering around basement rehearsal rooms and two self-released demos, we are finally coming out of our lairs with this LP under the banners of DYING VICTIMS." Their past connections with fellow labelmates ARMAGH and FUKKIN’ VENGEANCE somewhat explains TORPOR’s link to the idiosyncratic side of ancient heavy metal, which has taken far more prominence on Ɖungeon Ɖescent over the first-wave black metal side – but that’s only part of the picture. Some might call it “cleaning up,” others might liken it to a harnessing of feral energies, but TORPOR’s emphatic-yet-stoic strut conveys equal amounts of energy and mystery, finesse and fine-tuning. Of course, the power-trio can kick into high gear when they want to, be it heroic gallop or even hypnotic blast, but their sense of movement from one moody segment to the next imparts a narrative flow that’s part and parcel of their lyrical imagery. Or, perhaps it’s true swords & sorcery metal without belaboring the point – no “COOL IMAGERY DUDE” without the music & atmosphere to back it up, more specifically – that harkens to a glorious, sadly bygone era. However you approach this Ɖungeon Ɖescent, TORPOR have surely delivered a cult classic in the making. Passion, authenticity, the reverberating ring of truth…ancient powers arise from time immemorial

DYING VICTIMS PRODUCTIONS is proud to present the long-awaited debut album of Italy’s INTO DARKNESS, Route to the Other Side, on CD and vinyl LP formats. Italy's INTODARKNESS have been a work in progress since their formation in 2011. Led by vocalist / guitarist Doomed Warrior from the very beginning, the band released a handful of demos, a couple splits, and a couple EPs during their first decade of existence. While all short-lengths, they certainly did not lack in quality. As time (and lineups) went on, INTO DARKNESS’ primary influences – equally early Asphyx and Soulburn, Pentacle, Sinister, Gorefest, Dead Head, Phlebotomized, Acrostichon, and Thanatos among others – came more sharply into focus, aligning reverently within old-school Dutch death metal in style but with a unique lyrical focus: divulgative astronomy. Not astrology, not sci-fi, no Lovecraft – only and specifically divulgative astronomy, maybe poetically but definitely realistically. Now, at long last, INTO DARKNESS are prepared to unleash their debut album. Tellingly titled Route to the Outer Side, the Italians’ first full-length is a concept record about the outer solar system, which still considers Pluto as a planet and also includes Halley’s Comet.

Consolidated, the political dance/industrial music band from the early 90ties joined again for a studio session in San Francisco last summer, resulting in a new album. 'We're Already There'. The first release on Consolidated's own label 'The End Of Records'. What else to expect, the new recordings are an innovating mix of industrial, to hip-hop, to rock and funk with mixtures of live instruments and electronics. Topped with left political activism and politically radical lyrics address issues such as America, Covid and ecocide with song The Flood, demand *'Free Music, Stop America'* with Musica Sin Frontieras & welcome guest vocalist GRETA THUNBERG on the track The 'ol Mass Extinction Blues. The album starts in 'traditional Consolidatedgroove' with the song 'Capitalism A.F.', a mix of beats, industrial sounds and hiphop. Followed by funkypop songs, danceable industrial jams, techno beats, reggae and blues influences plus a remarkable noise track. Main musicians are Adam Sherburne (guitar/vocals) and Mark Pistel (synths/beats) backed by Lynn Farmer (Meat Beat Manifesto) on drums, who replaces the original drummer Phil Steir. The complete album is recorded, mixed and mastered by Mark Pistel at 'Room 5' in San Francisco. The cover shows art paintings from Ayelet Hay (front) and William Kendall (back). On 'We're Already There' Consolidated plays more music than ever. "I have zero interest in being in a band, especially my own_" "I had to develop a different way to be involved with music for aesthetic and mental health reasons_" "FREE MUSIC! is not to the detriment of artists, it's literally the end of artists-as anyone perceives them in the last 500 years" -Adam Sherburne - Consolidated are known for their live performances, in which a microphone is passed among audience members to discuss, rebut, argue or elaborate on song topics. Consolidated: Adam Sherburne & Mark Pistel.

Als eine der prägendsten und einflussreichsten Künstlerinnen unserer Zeit vereint die mehrfache Grammy- und BRIT-Award-Gewinnerin Charli xcx Musik, Mode und Film wie keine andere. Ihr mit Spannung erwartetes neues Album „Music, Fashion, Film“ erscheint am Freitag, den 24. Juli, und führt ihren visionären Mix aus Mainstream und innovativem Underground perfekt fort. Das Meisterwerk enthält bereits gefeierte Tracks wie „SS26“ und „Rock Music“ und besticht durch ein ikonisches Cover von Aidan Zamiri, auf dem Legenden wie John Cale, Marc Jacobs und Martin Scorsese zu sehen sind.

Dies ist der Original-Soundtrack zu ,Crime 101" vom experimentellen Elektronikmusiker, Produzenten und Komponisten Blanck Mass. Das Album ist auf schwarzem Vinyl gepresst und in einer luxuriösen, foliengeprägten Hülle untergebracht, komplett mit beidseitigem Einleger. Donnernde Synth-Klanglandschaften werden mit nuancierten, charakterorientierten Themen kombiniert und schaffen so eine facettenreiche Kulisse für den intensiven Thriller. Der Amazon MGM Studios-Film unter der Regie von Bart Layton spielt vor der sonnenverbrannten Kulisse von Los Angeles. ,Crime 101" erzählt die Geschichte eines schwer fassbaren Juwelendiebs (Chris Hemsworth), dessen Serie von Raubüberfällen entlang der Autobahn 101 die Polizei vor ein Rätsel stellt. Als er die Beute seines Lebens im Visier hat, kreuzt sich sein Weg mit dem einer desillusionierten Versicherungsmaklerin (Halle Berry), die selbst an einem Scheideweg steht. Überzeugt davon, ein Muster entdeckt zu haben, rückt ein unerbittlicher Detective (Mark Ruffalo) immer näher und erhöht den Einsatz noch weiter. Während der Raubüberfall näher rückt, beginnt die Grenze zwischen Jäger und Gejagtem zu verschwimmen, und alle drei stehen vor Entscheidungen, die ihr Leben bestimmen - und der Erkenntnis, dass es kein Zurück mehr gibt. Über die Entstehung der Musik sagt Power: ,Crime 101 war ein unglaublicher Film, für den ich die Musik schreiben durfte. Im Mittelpunkt der Geschichte steht natürlich der Raubüberfall. Mir wurde jedoch sehr schnell klar, dass dies nicht irgendein Raubüberfallfilm war, sondern eher ein Noir-Film, in dem zufällig ein Raubüberfall vorkommt. Die Hauptfiguren und die Art und Weise, wie sich ihre Leben verflechten, waren in gewisser Weise wichtiger als die Action. Der Film ist natürlich stellenweise hochdramatisch, aber was mich wirklich an diesem Film fasziniert hat, war die Charakterentwicklung. Lou, Davis und Sharon sind das schlagende Herz. Ich wollte die ganze Zeit über ,klanglich bei ihnen sein`. Sowohl das Zarte als auch das Wütende mussten miteinander harmonieren."

Songs, interpretiert von Memphis Slim, Sonny Boy Williamson, Big Bill Broonzy und anderen. Als United Artists 1959 ,Blues in the Mississippi Night" endlich veröffentlichte - nachdem man das Album jahrelang als ,zu kontrovers" eingestuft hatte -, erhielten die mitwirkenden Künstler Pseudonyme, um ihre Familien zu schützen. Das war der Preis dafür, dass sie die brutale, ungeschönte Wahrheit aussprachen. Heute wissen wir, dass ,Natchez, Sib & Leroy" die legendären Bluesmusiker Big Bill Broonzy, Memphis Slim und Sonny Boy Williamson waren. 1947 nahm Alan Lomax die drei Giganten mit einem Presto-Disc-Aufnahmegerät in den Decca Studios in New York City auf, nachdem sie im Rahmen seiner ,Midnight Special"-Konzertreihe in der nahegelegenen Town Hall aufgetreten waren. Lomax bat sie, ein paar Songs zu spielen und über ,den Blues" zu sprechen, und ermutigte sie, offen über die Ungerechtigkeiten des Lebens der Schwarzen in Amerika zu reden. Das Ergebnis war ,Blues in the Mississippi Night", eine bahnbrechende Aufnahme ihrer Songs und Geschichten, die die Ursprünge der Musik in Blut, Schweiß und Tränen der Afroamerikaner aufzeigt, die im Mississippi-Delta unter den Ausbeutungsbedingungen der Jim-Crow-Gesetze lebten. Einfach gesagt: Die Aufnahmen sind atemberaubend in ihrer brutalen Ehrlichkeit und ihrer fesselnden Meisterschaft. Heute hat das Lomax-Archiv die Originalbänder dieser historischen Aufnahme digital remastert, um sie zum ersten Mal seit 1959 wieder auf Vinyl zu veröffentlichen. Im Paket enthalten ist ein 20-seitiges Deluxe-Booklet mit einer vollständigen Transkription der gesamten Aufnahme sowie brandneuen Liner Notes von Anna Lomax Wood und einer Einleitung des renommierten Schlagzeugers und Produzenten Steve Jordan (Rolling Stones, John Mayer). ,Ich fordere jeden, der das Leben und die Wahrheit liebt, auf, sich diese Aufnahme anzuhören", sagt Jordan. Wenn man sich die Texte und die Musik darin anhört, wird das schnell klar. Dies ist eine unverzichtbare Aufnahme - ein Eckpfeiler in der Plattensammlung jedes Blues-Fans und ein unbestreitbarer Teil der amerikanischen Geschichte.

Die fünfköpfige Band 1000 Rabbits (ehemals hießen sie Rabbitfoot) veröffentlicht mit "Are we friends yet?" ihre Debüt-EP - ein sechs Tracks umfassendes Werk, das die ersten zwei Jahre ihres Bestehens festhält. Die EP enthält unter anderem die Singles "Virgin Soil" und "Rubik"s Cube" und erscheint digital sowie als limitierte 12"-Vinyl über das Label Young. Sie versteht sich als Momentaufnahme einer Band, die sich noch im Prozess der Selbstfindung befindet und ihre Identität in Echtzeit formt. Die Songs entstanden über einen Zeitraum von zwei Jahren hinweg - in Wohnzimmern, Proberäumen und auf Bühnen - und spiegeln ein prägendes Kapitel der Band wider. Einige Stücke reichen bis in ihre Anfangszeit zurück, andere sind erst kürzlich entstanden. Gemeinsam ergeben sie jedoch ein stimmiges Gesamtbild und bieten einen lebendigen Einstieg in die Klangwelt von 1000 Rabbits. Besonders prägend war dabei die Live-Erfahrung: Jeder Song entwickelte sich durch Auftritte weiter und wurde Abend für Abend neu geformt. Der Titel "Are we friends yet?" geht auf einen wiederkehrenden Moment in ihren Konzerten zurück. Während des letzten Songs "Spring Cleaning" stellt Sänger River diese Frage ans Publikum - ein Augenblick, der Nähe, Offenheit und Verletzlichkeit vereint und den Kern der Band widerspiegelt. Wie die Band selbst sagt, verstehen sie die EP als ehrlichen Ausdruck ihrer bisherigen Reise: ein erstes Statement, das zeigt, wer sie sind und wohin sie sich entwickeln könnten.

Zunächst einmal herrscht das Gefühl, dass Post-Punk einen Sättigungspunkt erreicht hat, mit einer Vielzahl von Bands, die sich damit begnügen, die gleichen Gimmicks und Posen wie ihre Vorgänger zu recyceln. Glücklicherweise fällt Pales nicht in diese Kategorie. Bei dieser Band kann man einen Blick auf die Trends erhaschen, die sich für Gitarrenmusik jenseits bloßer Imitation abzeichnen. Der Titel der EP "The Crush" illustriert perfekt diesen Wunsch, Einflüsse aus Noise, Soul, Pop und Industrial Music zu verschmelzen, um kantige Tracks zu schaffen. Die Arbeitsweise der Band, die zwischen improvisierten Studio-Sessions und Live- Experimenten wechselt, ermöglicht es ihnen, die bestmögliche Form für jeden Song zu finden - und das funktioniert wunderbar. Célias Sprechgesang packt einen sofort. Es ist, als würde Florence Shaw von Dry Cleaning plötzlich Lust bekommen, einem ins Bein zu beißen. Die Gitarrenwellen treiben den Rhythmus voran und verleihen dem kraftvollen Refrain echte Dynamik. Zur Feier des einjährigen Jubiläums der EP CRUSH erscheint in Zusammenarbeit mit Rookie Records eine limitierte Auflage auf babyblauem Vinyl.

Mit ihrem neuesten Album "Cycles In The Infinite Dream" bündeln REZN die erdrückende Wucht ihres gesamten klanglichen Arsenals mit himmlischen Melodien und einer synästhetisch aufgeladenen, geradezu erhabenen Atmosphäre - und zwar so nahtlos, dass es beinahe jenseitig wirkt, als befände man sich in einem Grenzbereich zwischen zwei Realitäten. Während sich REZN in den ungezügelten Sphären des Metal und den grenzenlosen Weiten der Psychedelia bewegen, zeigt ihr neues Album eine Band, die mit Disziplin und klarer Intention arbeitet - selbst dann, wenn diese Absichten bewusst kryptisch gehalten sind. Wie der Albumtitel andeutet, erkundet "Cycles In The Infinite Dream" die Schnittstelle zwischen Wachzustand und nächtlicher Welt. Ähnlich wie das vom Unterbewusstsein geleitete Werk von David Lynch existiert das Album als eine Art Parallaxe zwischen Künstler und Publikum: Es erschafft einen verschleierten, verzerrten Raum, der zugleich vertraut und fremd wirkt - wie ein Korridor in die eigene Vergangenheit, in dem man die Umgebung wiedererkennt und sich dennoch in ihrer verschobenen Geometrie verliert. REZN bewegen sich seit jeher - und äußerst erfolgreich - im unterirdischen Kosmos jener Musikfans, die nach dem klanglichen Äquivalent veränderter Bewusstseinszustände suchen. Mit "Cycles In The Infinite Dream" haben sie nun ihr bislang wohl psychedelischstes Werk geschaffen. Die Vinyl-Erstpressung kommt mit einem 20seitigem Booklet (Deluxe Ed.).