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"Time's Up"! Die australischen Streetpunker von "The Clinch" kommen endlich über den großen Teich mit ihrem brandneuem, dritten Album und ihrer ersten Europa-Tournee! 2018 erschien ihr Debut "Our Path is gone" und die 5 köpfige Band aus Melbourne avancierte schnell zum Geheimtipp: Schnörkelloser rough'n'tough Aussie-Streetpunk mit dirty RnR-Kante a la Rose Tattoo und einer Prise Brickwall-American Oi! Dazu Texte fernab der üblichen ausgetretenen Pfade und dezent eingesetzte aber stets mitreißende Gang-Vocals. Schnell machten Vergleiche mit Bonecrusher oder Bishops Green die Runde. Mit dem 2 Jahre später erschienenen Nachfolger "Basecamp" zementierte The Clinch ihren Ruf und die weltweiten Kritiken von Maximum RocknRoll bis Ox-Fanzine waren sich einig: Diese Band hat das gewisse Etwas und startet durch! Die erste Tour in Europa wurde geplant um aus dem Schatten des Outbacks heraus zu treten_dann kam die Pandemie und eine Krise folgte der Nächsten_aber aufgeschoben ist nicht aufgehoben: Im Fühjahr 2026 veröffentlichen "The Clinch" mit "Melbourne" und "Journeyman" digital die ersten Single-Auskoppelungen und kündigen mit "Time's up" ihr neues Album auf Sunny Bastards an! Musikstil und Sound als bewährtes Rezept sind gleich geblieben auch wenn The Clinch thematisch noch persönlicher den Finger in die Wunde der Gesellschaft legen_ Streetpunk, authentisch, ergreifend, ehrlich und ungeschönt ohne Pathos: 10 harte Volltreffer, die Spuren hinterlassen! "Man's not fed on good intention. No Safe Spaces left to mention" Songs wie "Stray Dogs" oder "FED" sind unter die Haut gehende Underdog-Anthems über Kampf, Verzweiflung, Zuversicht und sich nicht unterkriegen zu lassen. "Another day, another try"! Das Leben ist halt eine Reise und endet für Alle gleich! Mit Deinen Freunden im Rücken, einem Kämpferherz und "Seelenfutter" wie diese Platte ist es jeden verdammten Tag ertragbar. Also genieß es bevor "Time's Up!"! Oder um es mit "The Clinch zu sagen" It's my chosen way of life"!

To mark its 10th Anniversary,
discover Awa Ly's Album "Five And A Feather" (Including one previously unreleased track) On Vinyl For The First Time !

One night, Awa had a dream.

The atmosphere was enchanted, almost mystical, enveloped in a setting that summoned the moon, the Earth, and the elements. An ancestral blend of Native American and African cultures, a shamanic being was there, speaking in an unknown language, narrating stories both real and imagined. She received these tales from others, made them her own, absorbed them, shared their joy, and soothed their harbored pain or sadness.

Upon waking, the shamanic narrator had vanished, but her presence was still palpable; Awa made her the storyteller of this new album: Five and a Feather.

Five, like all things counted by fives: the senses, the oceans, the lines of a musical staff, the fingers on a hand. And feather, the magical element that connects them-the very one Awa used to write and compose the ten tracks of this new album where, under the brush of SainaSix, she becomes the first Black woman immortalized in Mucha's Art Nouveau aesthetic.

Ballaké Sissoko's kora, Paco Sery's senza, Greg Cohen's double bass, Faada Freddy's vocals, the steel guitar, or the erhu (Chinese violin) are all elements that illuminate the shamanic storyteller's tales.

Produced alongside the duo Jean Lamoot and Pascal Danae (winners of the 2015 Victoires de la Musique in the World Music category with their band Rivière Noire), Five and a Feather faithfully captures the warm atmosphere of live-recorded sessions where instruments answer and interlock with one another, creating the perfect showcase for the album's principal instrument: Awa's voice.
Words that she delicately places or lets fall onto the notes like tears of joy or sadness, flowing from that source called love.

An album written, composed, and recorded like fine lace, starry with details that only reveal themselves to those who know how to seek them out.

Originally released on Art Yard in 2017 finally back in print!

Solo album displaying a collection of foggy electronic dub meditations recorded between 2000 and 2005 by Berliner Ring member Alexander Christou under his Al Chem guise.

In 2009, the label Art Yard sent a probe into the outer regions of contemporary electronic music, releasing Berliner Ring's "Orbital" album, a dub techno hymnal for Berlin’s orbital ring road. Drawing together the disparate elements of invented instruments, modified keyboards, customized rhythm and string machines, it was built around moods and themes drawn from the Berlin landscape.

One member of the Ring, Alexander Christou, also a part of the Berlin electro rock group Elecdrones, recording for Katzensonne. The band were “not interested in the crafting of chunks of music ready to be consumed”. Christou has since been recording under the moniker Al Chem, crossing analogue and digital realms, synthesizing a kind of philosopher’s stone. As Al Chem, he released on Tummy Touch Records, and now follows with a collection of foggy electronic dub meditations recorded between 2000 and 2005 in a full album.

In the battle to harness the elements, ancient mists permeated Chem’s music. A murky, mercurial humidity saturates the project. A distinctly north European descendant of dub, a kind of Seventh Seal that Bergman could have made, if provided enough hydroponic infusions.

No Hopper is a rework of the Ras Michael song No Hoppers, from his legendary album, Rastafari Dub, Chem's version shuffles the pack of electronic percussion with organic, Moondog-like rhythms and hazy atmospheric chords; The Prophet pinpoints Chem's GPS firmly in Berlin, just as The Red Tower blurs that kick-drum parallel between reggae and house music; Baudelaire sputters digital delay, piling on the pressure, a clatter of surgical implements performing an operation out of Dead Ringers, the patient storming out of the theatre with loosely fitted mechanical body parts; the instrumental No Hopper only serves to highlight the distant gathering storm. Ladder of Perfection rounds off the set with a drone, creaking with bubbling digital mud pools

Emerging from the shadows, Audio-Unknown is a vinyl-only imprint built on anonymity, intention, and pure sound. No names, no faces, no algorithms — just carefully crafted records designed to be discovered without preconceptions. Every release strips away identity to refocus attention on what matters: the music, the texture, the moment.

This is not a label driven by hype or visibility. It exists outside the cycle — no digital platforms, no previews, no tracklists. Each record is a closed object until the needle drops.


AUDIO-UNKNOWN 001

The first transmission.

An unnamed artist.
Untitled tracks.
Uncompromising direction.

AUDIO-UNKNOWN 001 delivers a tightly curated selection of cuts that move between tension and release, precision and rawness. Built for deep systems and attentive listeners, this debut sets the tone: functional yet elusive, minimal yet charged with intent.

Pressed on vinyl only. No repress guaranteed.

You don’t follow this — you find it.

Boy George's single "Generations of Love" has become a dance anthem. The single has been digitally released 12 times, with over 70 remixes. Mixes were created by Paul Oakenfold, Ramp, Phunk Investigation, Scream, De-Phazz, and The Scumfrog. So, like it or not, it's sure to be a hit whenever it's played on dance floors around the world.
Described as exuding joie de vivre (joy of life) and full of joy.
Suitable for clubs and house music: Praised for its laid-back, house-inspired grooves, perfect for clubs and living rooms.
One editor called it "full, smooth, and richly satisfying."
Considered a potential club hit, with critics urging people to buy it.
Smash Hits called it a "glossy, understated dance track."
Ultimately, reviews describe it as a feel-good dance track that successfully blends Boy George's iconic vocals with JL & Afterman's disco-house production, creating a joyful and very catchy remix.
This vinyl also includes The Scumfrog's fabulous version.

Thoma Bulwer delivers a solo EP and part of his soul in this diverse 4 tracker with titles conceived in his studios at different points in his life and studio engineering career, all revamped or freshly written to this ‘mini-album’. The A1 kicks off with ‘Work It’ a 4×4 house n techno roller you’d be familiar hearing at Starlane Pizza Bar, something like Hackney Wick meets Perlon. A2 ‘Bit’s n Bobs, is an electro, 2Step garage deep roller inspired by his time at Freerotation festival and digging their at Template of Vinyl. B1 ‘Situation Escalation’ is exactly what is says on the tin and captures at intense night and time in his life. The EP rounds off with B2 ‘Home Wrecker’, a wonky garage and breaks track with dental vocal clicks from the past fused in to nasty UK bass n drums and write raw to the floor.

Racing Mount Pleasant began as a group of friends and like-minded musicians in Ann Arbor, anchored at a single creative house that various members of the band have frequented and, to this day, continue to live in near the University of Michigan.

After an early album and smattering of songs under the name Kingfisher, including one beguiling and ambitious album released in 2022, the band reimagined themselves as Racing Mount Pleasant.

Now the band are reintroducing themselves under this new moniker with a beautiful, challenging self-titled debut album that draws on each member’s academic mastery of their instruments, but also a spirited defiance of conventional song structures—or even what a contemporary band looks or sounds like.

The band supported Geese in the fall and embarked on their own headline tour in 2026.

//… april 2025… a digital message arrived from shtpan… facing the window in southern italy, near the sea… to process audio data recorded in a neukölln club in berlin… i wasn’t sure about sharing this material as it was… opted for a process of audio transfiguration / layer superposition… four pieces emerged… then these four tracks were layered with memories from the same year’s recording archive… hunting through the record, you can hear the voices of Mohamed Dali Talif on “Materialism” and Dakn داكن on “Surrounded Postponed” and “Walked Uncertainty”…//

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.'

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.

Beggars Banquet veröffentlicht eine aufwendig überarbeitete 40-Jahre-Jubiläumsausgabe von Discover, dem entscheidenden Durchbruchsalbum von Gene Loves Jezebel aus dem Jahr 1986. Die Neuauflage erscheint als remastertes, erweitertes Doppel-Vinyl mit aktualisiertem Artwork und wurde von Henry Rudkins in den AIR Studios klanglich neu überarbeitet. Damit wird das Album in moderner Qualität neu zugänglich gemacht und zugleich als Schlüsselmoment der Bandgeschichte gewürdigt. Discover gilt als Meilenstein, da es Gene Loves Jezebel erstmals einem internationalen Publikum bekannt machte. Musikalisch vereint es die düsteren Einflüsse der frühen Jahre mit einem klareren, melodischeren Sound und prägnanten Gitarrenstrukturen. Besonders der zentrale Track "Desire (Come and Get It)" steht exemplarisch für diese Weiterentwicklung und wurde zu einem der bekanntesten Songs der Band. Ergänzt wird die Jubiläumsausgabe durch zusätzliche Inhalte: Die Liveaufnahme Glad To Be Alive aus Nottingham (1986) erscheint erstmals seit ihrer Originalveröffentlichung wieder auf Vinyl und zeigt die Band in einer energiegeladenen, raueren Form als im Studio. Parallel dazu werden ausgewählte Liveaufnahmen, darunter "Desire - Live in Nottingham", digital bereitgestellt. Insgesamt positioniert sich die Neuveröffentlichung als umfassende Würdigung eines Albums, das den künstlerischen Höhepunkt und internationalen Durchbruch von Gene Loves Jezebel markiert.

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

First-time repress of Thrum's 1994 cult classic Rifferama, newly remastered with enhanced depth and clarity. Features Monica Queen (Belle and Sebastian / Snow Patrol), the album offers a signature blend of shimmering hooks and fuzzed-out guitars. The long-awaited reissue of Rifferama, the acclaimed debut album by Glasgow indie trailblazers Thrum. Out on Fire Records, the remaster revisits one of the most revered cult records of the 1990s UK guitar scene (the vinyl release includes an exclusive digital download of the band's reunion show recorded live at Airdrie Town Hall in 2025, along with a new studio version of 'Hey Joe'). Originally released to critical acclaim, Rifferama captured a moment when melody, distortion and emotional urgency collided to create something timeless. Now newly remastered from the original recordings, the album returns with enhanced depth and clarity, reaffirming its reputation as a lost classic of the era. Fronted by the unmistakable voice of Monica Queen (known for her work with Belle and Sebastian and Snow Patrol), Thrum's sound blended shimmering pop hooks with driving, fuzz-laden riffs. Alongside Johnny Smillie's distinctive guitar work, the band forged a sonic identity that stood proudly alongside the era's most influential alternative acts. This reissue is dedicated to the late great Phil Vinall, who mixed the album.

60 Years celebrates six decades of of pianist and composer Horace Tapscotts radical and uplifting musical and social vision. Digging deep into the Arkestra"s archives, the album gathers breath-taking unreleased material, including previously unheard compositions, from every stage of the band"s development - from Tapscott"s earliest iterations of the group, recording at home in 1961, to the current incarnation of the band, led by the new generation of young musicians. Remastered from archival sources by the Arkestra"s longstanding engineer Wayne Peet, 60 Years is presented by The Village, a label operated by members of the Pan Afrikan Peoples Arkestra. With archival photographs documenting the Arkestra"s history, the album arrives with liner notes featuring track-by-track commentary from Arkestra members past and present. In the words of Mekala Session, "This release is the culmination of 60 years of Black history through sound". South Central"s musical colossus is still very much awake, and 60 Years reveals the secrets of the Ark.

"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."

DJ NOTOYA, who was among the first in Japan to spotlight Japanese music and gained international attention with his mix CD “Tokyo 1980s”—which became an
instant classic upon release. Now, his compilation “Tokyo 1980s Victor Edition,” which focuses on Victor Records’catalog and showcases his deep understanding of
the essence of 1980s Japanese music—blending elements of disco, boogie, and modern soul—is finally being reissued as a long-awaited color vinyl edition!

This release features a carefully curated selection of gems—tracks that received high praise internationally in previous digital releases—specially compiled for vinyl.
Notably, Reiko Takahashi’s “Sunset Road” is included on vinyl for the first time, a long-awaited treat for fans as the original 7-inch is now extremely hard to find.
This must-have collection for fans of Japanese music and city pop is now complete, featuring cover artwork by Hiroshi Nagai. It’s the definitive album, perfect for
everything from club nights to casual listening!

After spending the last few years relentlessly touring across Europe and the UK, building a fiercely loyal fanbase through sold-out shows and unforgettable live performances, LEAP have built unstoppable momentum with their recent album, ENTROPY. First released digitally in late 2025, the album didn"t just connect-it exploded, racking up 21 million global streams and catching the ear of Epitaph Records, who quickly brought the band into the fold. There"s a magnetic push-and-pull at the heart of ENTROPY: big, anthemic alt-rock hooks wrapped around lyrics that don"t shy away from life"s messier moments. Frontman Jacky Scott leads the charge with a voice that can pivot from raw confession to fist-in-the-air release, turning heavy themes into something unexpectedly uplifting. It"s that balance-dark edges with a bright, communal core-that"s earned early praise from Rolling Stone and Kerrang! alike. And the fans are already all in. Following a sold-out European run, tickets for LEAP"s first U.S. shows in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles vanished months in advance-proof that their emotionally charged, high-energy sound translates far beyond the studio. At its core, ENTROPY feels like a shared experience: songs built for singalongs, for release, for connection. LEAP aren"t just channeling chaos-they"re turning it into something unifying, loud, and impossible to ignore.

Jon Schaffer's Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) is a bold new mix that fuses the raw essence of the "Brush-fires of the Mind" LP (2009) and the "Spirit of the Times" EP (2011), breathing fresh life into a message that has proven eerily prophetic in an era of escalating world challenges. " Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) " is out now on all streaming platforms, inviting listeners everywhere, old or new, to discover its urgency. For collectors, a special physical rollout will arrive via The Circle Music on July 4, 2026 , marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. At its core, Sons of Liberty's music exposed the machinations of a fraudulent financial system and the insidious creep of authoritarianism, serving as a stark warning to humanity. Today, with those shadows cast longer than ever, this music stands as a timeless testament to truth, unfiltered and unapologetic.

What sets Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) apart is its transcendence of partisan divides. This is not an echo chamber of political agendas; it's a universal wake- up call, championing freedom as the bedrock of peace and prosperity for every person on the planet. In a world fractured by division, Schaffer's lyrics rally for pro-freedom/pro-humanity ideals: anti-authoritarian, non-partisan, and rooted in the unyielding principles of liberty. It's a reminder that true empowerment comes from questioning and resisting systems that promote aggression and erode our shared dignity, fostering unity through principles of liberty, individual sovereignty, and collective resilience. Elevating the original material to new heights, this release features thunderous, newly recorded drums by longtime friend Mark Prator , whose precision and groove has powered classics from Iced Earth ( The Dark Saga , Something Wicked This Way Comes ), Demons & Wizards (Self- Titled Debut), and Jon Schaffer's Purgatory (EP 2018).

Paired with a cutting- edge modern mix by Jim Morris , the result is a sonic powerhouse that has matured like a fine wine - delivering an intensity and honesty that's all too rare in today's pop culture landscape. In an age where ideas can be silenced, this stands as the most censored and cancelled heavy metal music in history. It begs the question: Why? Are thought crimes an inevitable reality in a world that fears unbridled truth? Dive in, reflect, and educate yourself-- because freedom isn't a spectator sport; it is difficult, it requires action, and it's the only path to a better world for all of us

Jon Schaffer's Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) is a bold new mix that fuses the raw essence of the "Brush-fires of the Mind" LP (2009) and the "Spirit of the Times" EP (2011), breathing fresh life into a message that has proven eerily prophetic in an era of escalating world challenges. " Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) " is out now on all streaming platforms, inviting listeners everywhere, old or new, to discover its urgency. For collectors, a special physical rollout will arrive via The Circle Music on July 4, 2026 , marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. At its core, Sons of Liberty's music exposed the machinations of a fraudulent financial system and the insidious creep of authoritarianism, serving as a stark warning to humanity. Today, with those shadows cast longer than ever, this music stands as a timeless testament to truth, unfiltered and unapologetic.

What sets Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) apart is its transcendence of partisan divides. This is not an echo chamber of political agendas; it's a universal wake- up call, championing freedom as the bedrock of peace and prosperity for every person on the planet. In a world fractured by division, Schaffer's lyrics rally for pro-freedom/pro-humanity ideals: anti-authoritarian, non-partisan, and rooted in the unyielding principles of liberty. It's a reminder that true empowerment comes from questioning and resisting systems that promote aggression and erode our shared dignity, fostering unity through principles of liberty, individual sovereignty, and collective resilience. Elevating the original material to new heights, this release features thunderous, newly recorded drums by longtime friend Mark Prator , whose precision and groove has powered classics from Iced Earth ( The Dark Saga , Something Wicked This Way Comes ), Demons & Wizards (Self- Titled Debut), and Jon Schaffer's Purgatory (EP 2018).

Paired with a cutting- edge modern mix by Jim Morris , the result is a sonic powerhouse that has matured like a fine wine - delivering an intensity and honesty that's all too rare in today's pop culture landscape. In an age where ideas can be silenced, this stands as the most censored and cancelled heavy metal music in history. It begs the question: Why? Are thought crimes an inevitable reality in a world that fears unbridled truth? Dive in, reflect, and educate yourself-- because freedom isn't a spectator sport; it is difficult, it requires action, and it's the only path to a better world for all of us

Jon Schaffer's Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) is a bold new mix that fuses the raw essence of the "Brush-fires of the Mind" LP (2009) and the "Spirit of the Times" EP (2011), breathing fresh life into a message that has proven eerily prophetic in an era of escalating world challenges. " Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) " is out now on all streaming platforms, inviting listeners everywhere, old or new, to discover its urgency. For collectors, a special physical rollout will arrive via The Circle Music on July 4, 2026 , marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. At its core, Sons of Liberty's music exposed the machinations of a fraudulent financial system and the insidious creep of authoritarianism, serving as a stark warning to humanity. Today, with those shadows cast longer than ever, this music stands as a timeless testament to truth, unfiltered and unapologetic.

What sets Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) apart is its transcendence of partisan divides. This is not an echo chamber of political agendas; it's a universal wake- up call, championing freedom as the bedrock of peace and prosperity for every person on the planet. In a world fractured by division, Schaffer's lyrics rally for pro-freedom/pro-humanity ideals: anti-authoritarian, non-partisan, and rooted in the unyielding principles of liberty. It's a reminder that true empowerment comes from questioning and resisting systems that promote aggression and erode our shared dignity, fostering unity through principles of liberty, individual sovereignty, and collective resilience. Elevating the original material to new heights, this release features thunderous, newly recorded drums by longtime friend Mark Prator , whose precision and groove has powered classics from Iced Earth ( The Dark Saga , Something Wicked This Way Comes ), Demons & Wizards (Self- Titled Debut), and Jon Schaffer's Purgatory (EP 2018).

Paired with a cutting- edge modern mix by Jim Morris , the result is a sonic powerhouse that has matured like a fine wine - delivering an intensity and honesty that's all too rare in today's pop culture landscape. In an age where ideas can be silenced, this stands as the most censored and cancelled heavy metal music in history. It begs the question: Why? Are thought crimes an inevitable reality in a world that fears unbridled truth? Dive in, reflect, and educate yourself-- because freedom isn't a spectator sport; it is difficult, it requires action, and it's the only path to a better world for all of us

Jon Schaffer's Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) is a bold new mix that fuses the raw essence of the "Brush-fires of the Mind" LP (2009) and the "Spirit of the Times" EP (2011), breathing fresh life into a message that has proven eerily prophetic in an era of escalating world challenges. " Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) " is out now on all streaming platforms, inviting listeners everywhere, old or new, to discover its urgency. For collectors, a special physical rollout will arrive via The Circle Music on July 4, 2026 , marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. At its core, Sons of Liberty's music exposed the machinations of a fraudulent financial system and the insidious creep of authoritarianism, serving as a stark warning to humanity. Today, with those shadows cast longer than ever, this music stands as a timeless testament to truth, unfiltered and unapologetic.

What sets Sons of Liberty - Thought Crimes (Volumes 1 & 2) apart is its transcendence of partisan divides. This is not an echo chamber of political agendas; it's a universal wake- up call, championing freedom as the bedrock of peace and prosperity for every person on the planet. In a world fractured by division, Schaffer's lyrics rally for pro-freedom/pro-humanity ideals: anti-authoritarian, non-partisan, and rooted in the unyielding principles of liberty. It's a reminder that true empowerment comes from questioning and resisting systems that promote aggression and erode our shared dignity, fostering unity through principles of liberty, individual sovereignty, and collective resilience. Elevating the original material to new heights, this release features thunderous, newly recorded drums by longtime friend Mark Prator , whose precision and groove has powered classics from Iced Earth ( The Dark Saga , Something Wicked This Way Comes ), Demons & Wizards (Self- Titled Debut), and Jon Schaffer's Purgatory (EP 2018).

Paired with a cutting- edge modern mix by Jim Morris , the result is a sonic powerhouse that has matured like a fine wine - delivering an intensity and honesty that's all too rare in today's pop culture landscape. In an age where ideas can be silenced, this stands as the most censored and cancelled heavy metal music in history. It begs the question: Why? Are thought crimes an inevitable reality in a world that fears unbridled truth? Dive in, reflect, and educate yourself-- because freedom isn't a spectator sport; it is difficult, it requires action, and it's the only path to a better world for all of us

Futurismo are thrilled to present Give Thanks, the long out of press 1984 hardcore classic by Articles Of Faith. Produced by Bob Mould, and newly remastered directly from the original tapes, this powerhouse of a record is now coming on both LP and CD after being unavailable for decades. Originally released in 1984, the debut LP Give Thanks by Chicago hardcore legends Articles Of Faith, is proof a hardcore record can be both political and poetic. Fuelled by rage, introspection and a musical progression that could be seen as a blueprint for what would later become known as post-hardcore, this album ticks every box you want from a record of the era: intense, emotive, scathing, unpredictable, all topped off by the masterful production of Bob Mould (Hüsker Dü/Sugar). Give Thanks is perhaps overlooked in many top ten’s of the genre, but leaving the bands debut LP off that list would be a mistake. A demonstration in raw emotion and political angst, Give Thanks harnesses a sound that could have only happened during the Reagan era. Hardcore was of course a musical explosion built upon aggression and discontent, yet Give Thanks forcefully fuses this concept of raw power with a multitude of musical influences at a time when some of their contemporaries perhaps seemed to tread water. Whilst the principles and sonics harnessed on AOF’s debut album may have had more in common with the sounds coming out of Washington D.C., this record has an authentic Chicago savvy running through it, effortlessly projecting a street level tone whilst simultaneously aiming to show the possibilities of what a hardcore record could be. In retrospect, AOF’s debut was a hardcore album ahead of it’s time, perhaps the reason it’s fervent themes and artistry still feel so fresh and relevant. Whether that’s due to Vic Bondi’s gravelly tones geared to critique the societal regime at play, or the considered guitar work aimed to both blast and texturize, or the intense drums rhythms inspired by jazz and dub, there is a depth to the final album that feels like a band testing their parameters, one listen to ‘Every Man For Himself’ and you know you are listening to something special. Familiarity and originality rarely crossover, but in this case they coexist to leave us with a forward thinking punk record that is more interested in shouting it’s emotions from the street, than it is screaming into a vacuum.

A true American hardcore record, and a must for fans of Minor Threat, Dead Kennedy’s, Bad Brains and Fugazi.

Gloss laminated digipak CD & Limited edition pink & white colour vinyl.

Known for his signature positive vibes and the triple-platinum single “GOOD TIME,” country star Niko Moon digs into his own origin story on his new 15-track album, ROOTS. Following his 2025 tropical album AMERICAN PALM, ROOTS shifts the scenery to the verdant hills of Georgia where Moon grew up, balancing his trademark optimism with unprecedented transparency about his journey. On the track “AMERICAN DREAMIN’,” he reflects on a lean childhood moving between trailers and motels, inspired by the resilient optimism of his truck-driver dad and waitress mom. He fast-forwards to his current life in Nashville on the ballad “RICH MAN,” celebrating his wife and two children as his true source of wealth, while tracks like “GET COUNTRY” deliver a trap-beat party anthem designed for pure escapism. The album's centerpiece, “GEORGIA (ROOTS),” interpolates the classic "Georgia on My Mind" to celebrate his home state with a feature from his own daughter. Beyond the music, Moon channels his pay-it-forward mentality into his Happy Cowboy Foundation, which provides affordable therapy, proving that his signature smile isn't from a lack of hardship, but a conscious choice to spread encouragement.

Sacred Leather is a traditional heavy metal band from the heart of Indianapolis, consisting of Dee Wrathchild (vocals), Lynn St. Michaels (lead guitar), Cvon Owens (rhythm guitar), Magnus Legrand (bass) and Don Diamond (drums). Following a privately manufactured live cassette, 2018’s debut album »Ultimate Force« and numerous (digital) singles, the new »Keep The Fire Burning« is the band’s most definite statement yet. Produced by the legendary Arthur Rizk (Eternal Champion, Power Trip), every track on the record is a call to arms. High-octane compositions such as “Spitfire At Night”, “Phantom Highways” or “Malevolent Eyes” show that Sacred Leather are true defenders of the faith. All songs breathe the raw power of classic 80s metal. Bassist Magnus Legrand comments: “Judas Priest has been a massive influence on us - not just aesthetically or stylistically, but in their ability to cover a wide range of sounds while always remaining unmistakably themselves. That balance is something we actively strive for: to explore every facet of heavy metal without ever losing our identity. The same can be said for KISS, Scorpions, and Queensrÿche - bands that can rock, rip, soar, go epic, or strip it down to something tender, all while keeping their signature intact. That versatility, anchored by a strong sense of self, is the standard we hold ourselves to.” According to Magnus Legrand, »Keep The Fire Burning« is a clear progression from the debut album »Ultimate Force«: “It’s sharper in its songwriting, stronger in its musicianship, and more focused in its execution. Where »Ultimate Force« laid the foundation, this record pushes further into those same territories with greater intent and refinement. It builds on what we established before, expanding the scope while tightening the strike. As a whole, »Keep The Fire Burning« is a relentless ride through the heart of traditional heavy metal - familiar in spirit, but undeniably Sacred Leather in execution.“

The next release in M-Plant's Perpetual Masters series is Robert Hood's "Invincible" EP, freshly remastered for 2026 by Thomas Heckmann.

Originally released in 2001, "Invincible" stands as another defining example of his stripped-back, approach to Techno while still radiating tough funk and groove. Released during a period when Hood was refining the minimalist aesthetic he helped pioneer, the record balances mechanical precision with emotional intensity. The tracks unfold through subtle shifts in percussion, looping synth patterns and driving basslines, to create a meditative momentum that sounds just as fresh today. "Invincible" draws its power from restraint, demonstrating Hood's belief that minimal elements can produce maximum impact on the dance floor.

Each track will be released digitally in May, followed by the full vinyl EP in July.

Having built a reputation through an impressive run of standout releases on labels such as Life and Death, United Identities, HOME//GRXWN. and Berg Audio, coupled with an ever-growing presence behind the scenes, Dutch DJ/producer M-HIGH arrives on Up The Stuss for his label debut with ‘What’s Going On’ - a four-track collection that shifts shape as it moves.

A friendship dating back years, with Chris having been a key early supporter of M-HIGH’s productions, regularly digging through fresh sketches and unreleased ideas while both artists carved their own individual paths, that connection now comes full circle here with a heavily anticipated first outing on the label that has long felt inevitable - it was simply a case of when.

Never holding still in one form for too long, he plays with tension and release across the individual tracks, balancing airy, vocal-led moments with weightier, more grounded rhythms, allowing each idea room to unfold without losing momentum. There’s a constant sense of motion that runs through the record from the first minute to the last, yet it’s an EP that showcases distinct sides to his growing sound across each production. Melodic passages drift in and out of focus, giving way to tougher, more angular sections before circling back again.

Subtle nods to classic house touches, from organs to retro-leaning motifs, are reframed through a more off-center lens and direction, while flashes of electro influence and low-slung grooves keep things unpredictable for the later hours. It’s a record that feels built for both peak dancefloor use and also the in-between moments, when the energy shifts, the room resets, and the direction isn’t quite locked yet.

Following a huge wave of global support since its digital debut, ‘Edge Of Desire’ from Jonas Blue & Malive finally lands on 12" vinyl. A fitting format for one of the most talked-about house records of the past twelve months.

Since its release in July 2025, ‘Edge Of Desire’ has become a genuine streaming and club phenomenon. The sun-drenched house cut built on shimmering guitar riffs, bubbling synths and an irresistible vocal hook quickly took on a life of its own, topping Beatport Overall Chart and spending weeks in the Top 10 while racking up 100 million streams worldwide and over 100,000 global radio plays. From major playlists to festival stages, the track’s uplifting energy has made it a staple for selectors and listeners alike, with early DJ support from tastemakers including Adriatique, Adam Ten and Carlita.

Now, ahead of summer 2026, the record arrives on a special 12" vinyl edition bringing together the original alongside standout reinterpretations from some of house music’s most respected names. Dutch favourite Franky Rizardo delivers a groove-heavy club workout, Florida legends Jazz-N-Groove add their unmistakable soulful house touch, while Grigoré & Serve Cold transform the track into a deep, rolling dancefloor weapon.

With the original continuing to dominate playlists and dancefloors around the world, the vinyl release of ‘Edge Of Desire’ feels perfectly timed. Ready to soundtrack open-air sets, beach parties and late-night club moments throughout the season. For DJs, collectors and house music fans alike, this pressing captures the record at the peak of its momentum: a modern Defected anthem finally given the wax treatment it deserves.

Lip Critic’s 2024 Partisan debut Hex Dealer was one of the most-hyped experimental releases of that year (“Like the B-52s on ketamine” -Paste) and signaled the Brooklyn band’s arrival as a borderline-batshit creative force. Theft World is their next chapter, built again from the chaos of two drummers locked in psychic combat, a sampler that sounds like it was struck by lightning, and frontman Bret Kaser’s paranoid preacher energy. But where Hex Dealer leapt from one absurdist vignette to the next, Theft World plays like a fully locked-in transmission. Themes orbit around the concept of theft, not just as a political force or digital dilemma, but as a surreal, emotional constant. Club rhythms and hardcore breakdowns pull as much from Tyler the Creator’s ‘Igor’ and Korn as they do Skrillex and Soul Coughing, coming together to soundtrack a world that’s constantly being striped apart and resold.

As Is. Nimm es oder lass es. Girl Trouble sind seit ihrer Gründung im Jahr 1984 in ihrer Heimatstadt Tacoma, Washington, ihrem ganz eigenen Stil des Northwest-Garage-Rock treu geblieben. In diesen 42 Jahren, in denen sie dem Ruhm aus dem Weg gegangen sind, hat Girl Trouble in vielen erstklassigen Studios und für viele verschiedene Labels aufgenommen. In den letzten 15 Jahren hat die Band Dutzende neuer Tracks aufgenommen und dabei den Sound gefunden, den sie suchten: etwas Roheres und Echtes. Etwas Neues. Während sie das Experiment fortsetzten, beschloss die Band, alle ihre jüngsten Aufnahmen zu einem ,Rock-Tapestry" zusammenzufassen. Diese Sessions repräsentieren sowohl das ausgefeilte, überlagerte Girl Trouble im Studio als auch das spontane, schnörkellose Girl Trouble live im Raum - genau das, was sie schon immer auf einer Aufnahme festhalten wollten. Das Ergebnis ist das Beste aus diesen beiden GT-Stilen und allem, was dazwischen liegt. Aufgenommen in verschiedenen Klangumgebungen, wobei nur das Songwriting und die Darbietungen von Track zu Track gleich geblieben sind, ist Girl Trouble stolz darauf, endlich diese neue Sammlung von Rock-'n'-Roll-Songs ,As-Is" präsentieren zu können.

Omega Sunrise was a US funk and soul outfit made from several members of the Seawind Horns and spent around eight months a year on the road from 1979 to 1986. They recorded a debut album in 1983 that charted well nationally and years on, Feel The Change remains a favourite of deep diggers. It was a 1983 private press release that had it all, from tight, snappy drums with mellow soul vocals and jazzy melodies drenched in spiritual vibes to more slow funk cuts with more defined drums. Brass tones, synth glows and a devotional energy all pervade the 11 cuts and this is its first-ever vinyl reissue, so do not sleep.

Supported by the only man with a copy the one and only DJ Harvey, so you know what to expect.

The concept remains simple — extend what already works. With the second chapter of MAXI MAXIMAL, Leicht Matrose SIRS continues a DJ focused approach to reconstruction, taking timeless disco, synth pop and balearic moments and reshaping them into extended, more playable versions built for flow, space, and long-form mixing. This is not about rarity or obscurity, it’s about clarity. Not digging for forgotten gems here but refining familiar material into its most functional, immersive form. Each track is treated with a clear intention: to open up space, deepen the arrangement, and allow the original emotion to unfold over a longer timeline made for modern use, without losing its core feeling. you dig it .

First Word Records are proud to bring you the debut EP from papaya noon - ‘through the moods’.

papaya noon are a Cardiff-based duo comprised of vocalist Annie Mirza and multi-instrumentalist Greg Marriott.

Formed five years ago, they make jazz-infused R&B music that incorporates their mutual love of classic soul, hip hop & electronica.

The duo have already amassed an impressive fan-base online, garnering over 80,000 followers across their socials, and receiving praise from such luminaries in the US as Missy Elliot, Snoop Dogg, Queen Latifah, 9th Wonder, Bootie Brown & the late great Fatman Scoop.

This is a result of their unique style, captivating grooves & deeply catchy hooks, encompassing a distinctive blend of soul music, from retrospective 90s vibes to alternative futuristic flavours, creating a sonic palette that’s wonderfully contemporary, yet very much their own.

All their music is written, performed & produced single-handedly by the duo themselves, who’ve managed to create a magically powerful potion from their plant-filled Cardiff studio space, and generated huge anticipation for their future output in-turn.

The future is NOW, as papaya noon are finally ready to unleash their music into the world.

‘through the moods’ is a 6-track EP of delicious alternative r&b vibes, already set to become future soul classics.

Sonically rooted in warm, textured instrumentation & layered harmonies, the duo have triumphantly built a huge soundscape that feels simultaneously nostalgic & futuristic. Smoky late-night ballads nestle alongside infectious uptempo jams, leaning into their jazzy boom-bap & neo-soul influences, whilst showcasing their phenomenal spread of talents as performers and songwriters both.

The duo explained that the EP navigates “neurodivergence, trauma & loss, with tenderness & honesty. Rather than presenting trauma as a spectacle, we’ve attempted to approach it with the softness and complexity that it merits”.


From the first single release ‘blush’, to the downtempo sweetness of ‘blindside’ or ‘morning light’, to the pacier ‘on your side’ & EP closer ‘crybaby’, each track on this project exemplifies their unbridled ability to produce deeply infectious earworms, whilst thematically encompassing unflinching lyricism that’s deeply personal.

Already hailed by some as “the Welsh Moonchild”, papaya noon were named as one of Clash Magazine’s “must-see” acts at FOCUS Wales in 2025, bringing their music to life on stage with their 5-piece live band, additionally performing at Brick Lane Jazz Festival, The Great Escape, Inglefest, Nowadaze, Swn Festival & Good Vibrations Society, as well as NXNe and BreakOut West in Canada, and supporting the likes of Hot 8 Brass Band & Reel People.

With everything already pointing to the duo swiftly becoming one of the hottest new soul acts in Britain, this is only the beginning of the journey for papaya noon…

‘through the moods’ will be released on vinyl & all digital platforms on Fri 10th July.

Step into the golden era of soul-jazz with the long-awaited vinyl reissue of “Vibrations” by Roy Ayers Ubiquity — a record that captures the unmistakable warmth, groove, and sophistication that defined Roy Ayers’ sound at its peak.

Originally released in 1976, “Vibrations” stands as a cornerstone in Ayers’ catalog, marking a moment where his signature blend of jazz, funk, and soul reached a refined, deeply cohesive form. Building on the foundations laid in earlier works, this album presents a tighter, more focused musical vision without sacrificing the lush textures and emotional depth that made his music resonate worldwide.

Roy Ayers was a pioneering vibraphonist, composer, and producer whose influence stretches far beyond jazz into R&B, neo-soul, and hip-hop. Often referred to as the “Godfather of Neo Soul,” Ayers crafted a sound that feels both timeless and forward-thinking, pairing silky vocals with hypnotic grooves and rich instrumental arrangements. His work throughout the 1970s helped shape the sonic DNA of modern Black music, and “Vibrations” is one of its purest expressions.

The album flows effortlessly between moods: from the jazz-inflected elegance of ‘Searching’ to the irresistible funk pulse of ‘The Memory,’ the dancefloor-ready ‘One Sweet Love to Remember,’ and the laid-back, atmospheric title track ‘Vibrations.’ Each track showcases a masterful balance between musicianship and groove, brought to life by a stellar ensemble of collaborators who elevate every moment.

Beyond its original impact, “Vibrations” has taken on a second life through hip-hop. Its grooves, breaks, and melodies have been extensively sampled by generations of producers and artists, becoming a foundational source for crate diggers and beatmakers alike. Tracks from the album have been reinterpreted and flipped by influential names such as A Tribe Called Quest, J Dilla, Dr. Dre, and Common, cementing its legacy as a vital bridge between 1970s soul-jazz and contemporary hip-hop culture.

After almost two decades out of print, we are pleased to present this much-needed vinyl reissue of an essential album in Roy Ayers’ career. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or returning to a beloved classic, this album remains an essential piece of musical history. Pressed on 180g vinyl.

This tidy joint release between Future Rootz and Luchando Music compiles rare recordings from 1970s and 80s Cuba, all sourced from private archives and reel-to-reel tapes. This is the sort of selection to get serious diggers hot under the collar as it explores funk-driven arrangements, jazz-informed horn sections and rhythm-led compositions contoured with Afro-Cuban percussion. There is plenty of tape saturation and analogue noise present throughout that reinforces the archival origins of the music and instrumentation centres on brass, keys and layered percussion, with grooves built from syncopated patterns and live ensembles. Alongside the music, restored credits and contextual research foreground the musicians and recording histories behind these previously unavailable works. Do not sleep on this one.

Straight from the weedy fields of swampville Bruxelles we bring you 8 ‘tranches de vie’ of deep zone-hall by weirdtronic bass veteran Michael Crabbé’s best fitting sound costume to date: the mighty Rudi J! You might know him from earlier outfits but that’s not the main issue here. Rudi J is!

When this swamp thing touches the pads, it’s off-road after three seconds, even if you’re in the middle of Europe’s capital. Mixing analog dirt and digital sound bits in a very loose and personal take on dancehall, we’re pretty far away from the dance floor but definitely swinging. It’s a trippy affair wandering around concrete flowers with a deep ambient flavor, but it’s edgy.

A hot summer fever dream following his own lusty path, full of life and wonder but with something sinister hiding around every corner. Often reaching for the stars, a deeper shade of bass keeps things nicely grounded. These sounds are built with a sound system in mind and bass culture at heart. Even if you can definitely surf on it from your couch, picking out all of its ear-pricking details, it will very much come alive on a big sound.

A layered affair with almost jazzy and orchestral elements peeping through the stereo-field, spectral and dissonant but also playful. Like early dubstep, some of these tunes can destroy a clubsound, keeping you skunking out in pedestrian mode and snorting up the atmospherics, finally forgetting about that damn phone.

Parisian label Chuwanaga announces the upcoming release of Inner Circle Vol. 1, the first installment in a series of house music releases bringing together artists from the label’s close circle. Available on limited 12" vinyl (300 copies) and digital.

The VA opens with “We All Got To Feel” by Argentine producer J. Koen (Nervous Records / Nite Grooves), a track that encapsulates the essence of deep house. Classy, colorful stabs, refined melodies, and a warm, funky bassline come together in a club-ready cut. It's exactly what you expect when you need a track that delivers — just drop it.

It is followed by “Sunny California” from French producer Kaffe Crème (Floors Records), an ode to the sun — both a celebration and a form of incantation recalling the spiritual energy of Ron Trent and Joe Claussell. The track builds toward a break filled with deep, jazz-inflected harmonies before returning with an electrifying melody carried by layered percussion, leading to an emotional climax.

On the flip side, “It’s A Feeling (House Music)” by the French duo Milk & Honey (Chuwanaga) draws clear inspiration from the Chicago lineage, in the vein of Boo Williams. A looping bassline, deep silky chords, and steady drums create a hypnotic, flowing texture with a myriad of ear candy. It's a feeling, it's a vibe!

The record closes with “The Gatekeeper” by French producers Saint-James (Chuwanaga) & KX9000 (Pont-Neuf Records), a track influenced by the London boogie sound and its broken beat scene. Fans of Dego and Kaidi Tatham will recognize its syncopated grooves and percussive depth, bridging house and broken beat aesthetics.

Sixty-four years after John Coltrane recorded the groundbreaking Africa/ Brass for Impulse!, Tenderlonious honours the original recording while pushing it forward with a Coltrane-like fervour of his own

Africa/Brass Live was recorded at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival in October 2025, as part of Pique- nique's Take Two series. Each Take Two event begins with an uninterrupted, high-fidelity playback of a seminal album, heard as it was originally intended, followed by a live reinterpretation with full artistic freedom. It's an experiment into what happens when serious musicians immerse themselves in a work long enough to discover their own path through it.

For this performance, Tenderlonious assembled a quartet of trusted collaborators. Tim Carnegie , his longtime Ruby Rushton drummer, flew in from London. Horatio Luna on bass and On- Ly on piano completed the group, two Melbourne musicians Tenderlonious describes as "seriously underrated." The melodies, he said, would be the foundation. After that, the search would begin. And the search was fierce!

That's what you're hearing on this record. One beautiful note, Tenderlonious will tell you, means more than a thousand. Coltrane knew it. And on a Monday night in Melbourne, they proved it.

Limited edition available on classic black vinyl and digisleeve CD.

Under the moniker Trace Mountains, Dave Benton writes music that asks large questions in quietly profound ways. On the project’s earliest release, the 2014 compilation Buttery Sprouts & Other Songs, these thoughts appeared as lo-fi scraps of wit andtenderness. But by the time A Partner to Lean On, Trace Mountains’ debut full-length, arrived in 2018, Benton’s perceptive indie rock had matured into more existential meditations about identity, existence, and finding sense in an increasingly chaotic world.
In the two years since A Partner to Lean On, Benton’s life has undergone several large changes, namely the dissolution of LVL UP, the indie rock quartet he co-founded in college, and a move to Kingston, a small city in New York’s Hudson Valley. Composed during—but not directly inspired by—this transition, Trace Mountains’ second record, Lost in the Country, reflects Benton’s need toreconnect with his inner world.

Prompted by an urge to access a more authentic voice, Lost in the Country finds Benton digging deeper into candid songwriting. “I wanted to open myself up and write lyrics that are a little bit more direct,” he explains. “I write a lot of songs that are about myself and a lot of songs that aren’t, but on this record, the focus is turned inward either way.” The result is Trace Mountains’ strongest and most assured record yet, 10 songs driven by a desire for introspection and self-discovery. The backdrop for this insularity is an expanse of wide blue skies, seas of trees, and winding roads, ideal locales for thoughts to blossom into greater reflections of the outer world. The slow-burning “Absurdity,” which Benton modestly says is about “hiking and standing in the country,” uses the sublimity of the wilderness to comment on technology’s inescapable presence. Similarly, the driving opener “Rock & Roll” transforms the premise of a “simple song about being a rocker” into a stream-of-consciousness, apocalyptic poem about delusions, regrets, and getting lost in your own limited perspective. This self-examination culminates with the record’s ambitious and anthemic title track. Channeling the cosmic sprawl of the War on Drugs or Kurt Vile, Benton recalls a moment of deep loneliness and depression outside a concert venue in the Netherlands, and how an unexpected moment of compassion led to a moment of awakening.
Despite its frequently bucolic setting, Lost in the Country’s underlying current is an urgent commitment to Trace Mountains and “finding a creative process that requires me to be honest with myself.” “I know I sing to forget, I sing to hold my breath, to feel the thumping in my chest,” Benton sings on “Cooper’s Dream.”This line is “rooted in the importance of music in my life, it’s definitely a reflection on that and how I can keep it in my life, because if I’m not careful and I don’t nurture it, I could lose it.” The self-imposed pressure has been empowering for Benton. “I really like having full control in making a record, deciding what songs are going to be on it, as well as shaping the vibe or narrative of the whole thing,” he says. “It brings a peace of mind knowing that I am responsible for just my voice.”

Norwegian folk artist Juni Habel's latest album Evergreen In Your Mind is largely an ode to letting go, and at it’s inquisitive heart can be found ‘Pearl Cloud Song’. An instrumental four-and-a-half minutes, it came from a guitar tuning that Habel stumbled upon, the song tumbling out of the discovery on its own accord. Lush and vibrant and bristling with life, it’s a beautiful backdrop to stepping into nature, bringing together a simple drum machine pattern, steel-string guitar, pedal steel, considered effects, and the flicker of a voice somewhere in the far-off distance. Juni says "it gives the sensation of flying." With such ingredients it was rife for a remix.

'Pearl Cloud Song Reformations' is a very limited 12" (also available digitally) which features two remixes/reformations from Tom Sharkett and Minotaur Shock and also includes Juni Habel's original version. There will only be 200 ever made.

Tom Sharkett is a producer from Manchester, now based in Todmorden. Having cut his teeth as a founding member of synth-wave band W. H. Lung. Tom has gone on to forge his own path as an electronic artist with music on Optimo Music, DFA and Test Pressing. His work leans towards dark, wonky and psychedelic electronics and his edit of LCD Soundsystem’s ‘Home’ grabbed the attention of James Murphy which led to an official DFA release. The cosmic choogle of his 'Pearl Cloud Song Reformation' is Sharkett's first remix committed to vinyl since.

Minotaur Shock is the long-standing electronic project of Bristol-based producer David Edwards. With a discography spanning labels like 4AD, Melodic and Bytes, Edwards balances pastoral charm with IDM sensibilities, creating soundscapes that are as much about the heart as they are the head.

Norwegian folk artist Juni Habel's latest album Evergreen In Your Mind (BR025) is largely an ode to letting go, and at it’s inquisitive heart can be found ‘Pearl Cloud Song’. An instrumental four-and-a-half minutes, it came from a guitar tuning that Habel stumbled upon, the song tumbling out of the discovery on its own accord. Lush and vibrant and bristling with life, it’s a beautiful backdrop to stepping into nature, bringing together a simple drum machine pattern, steel-string guitar, pedal steel, considered effects, and the flicker of a voice somewhere in the far-off distance. Juni says "it gives the sensation of flying." With such ingredients it was rife for a remix.

'Pearl Cloud Song Reformations' is a very limited 12" (also available digitally) which features two remixes/reformations from Tom Sharkett and Minotaur Shock and also includes Juni Habel's original version. There will only be 200 ever made.

Tom Sharkett is a producer from Manchester, now based in Todmorden. Having cut his teeth as a founding member of synth-wave band W. H. Lung. Tom has gone on to forge his own path as an electronic artist with music on Optimo Music, DFA and Test Pressing. His work leans towards dark, wonky and psychedelic electronics and his edit of LCD Soundsystem’s ‘Home’ grabbed the attention of James Murphy which led to an official DFA release. The cosmic choogle of his 'Pearl Cloud Song Reformation' is Sharkett's first remix committed to vinyl since.

Minotaur Shock is the long-standing electronic project of Bristol-based producer David Edwards. With a discography spanning labels like 4AD, Melodic and Bytes, Edwards balances pastoral charm with IDM sensibilities, creating soundscapes that are as much about the heart as they are the head.