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Steeped in classic dancefloor rhythms and sounds, ARTIFACTUAL RHYTHM presents a re-interpretation of club and DJ music through the lens of a live band with a jazz edge. Tapping into sounds of the 90s and 2000’s while keeping his foot very firmly in the now and beyond, Flood’s new body of work is both for the dancefloor and the listener.

Dubbed 'nu-jazz', 'jazztronica' and 'jazz house music', at its core Alex’s sound takes influence from house, UK garage, drum n’ bass, and broken beat. 'Artifactual' can be defined as 'made by human hands', and that’s exactly what Alex explores with this record; taking sounds and styles that are inherently electronic and giving them new life through the rawness of a live band underpinned by jazz and improvisational explorations. Music made by human hands.

Recorded live in a studio in Naarm / Melbourne and engineered, mixed, and co-produced by Lewis Moody (Energy Exchange Records), the album features a list of some of the finest players 'Down Under' including Erica Tucceri (flute), Finn Rees (keyboards), Dylan Paul (bass), as well as guest vocal features from the lyrical legend Cazeaux O.S.L.O on LIFE IS A RHYTHM, Kara Manasala on UK garage cut DON’T WAIT 4 ME, and New York soul queen Vivian Sessoms heating up some classic house energy on CAN’T GET ENOUGH.

Alexander Flood is one of Australia’s commanding beat-masters, possessing a unique and finessed arsenal of groove, power, and expertise on the drums. Leading his own band from the drum chair, Alex’s music pushes a fresh rhythmic and dynamic realm of live dance music leaning on nu-jazz, deep-house, broken beat, DnB, funk, and experimental sounds. The band has recently featured at Wellington Jazz Festival, Melbourne International Jazz Festival, SXSW Sydney, WOMADelaide, JazzMontez Frankfurt and various clubs across Europe and Australia.

Winning Australia’s Best Up and Coming Drummer Competition in 2016 was just the beginning of Flood’s accelerating trajectory in music. After graduating top of his University jazz degree in 2017, Alex signed with US label Stretch Music to release his debut album HEARTBEAT, followed by his sophomore release The Space Between in 2022. Later that year Alex toured Europe with heavyweight 6x GRAMMY nominee Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah’s band. While in Berlin Flood recorded his third album 'Oscillate' with an all-star lineup including Horatio Luna and Abase, releasing via Jakarta Records in May 2023. In 2023 Alexander was also the recipient of the highly prestigious Young Achiever Award at the Ruby Awards, as well as receiving the Robert Stigwood Fellowship (Government of South Australia).

2024 sees Alex join forces with Atjazz Record Company to release new music from his forthcoming album ARTIFACTUAL RHYTHM, as well as touring his band across Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the UK.

Some notable collaborators of Alex’s include Chief Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah, Abase, Horatio Luna, Atjazz, Vivian Sessoms, Cazeaux O.S.L.O, Nelson Dialect, the ASO, WASO, QSO, as well as working with brands including Red Bull Music and Istanbul Cymbals.

Originally released in 1971, produced by the legendary Sandy Roberton and featuring the likes of Richard & Danny Thompson, Keith Christmas and members of Mighty Baby & Fotheringay, the album has been talked about in glowing terms by an ever increasing fanbase over the years & is highly sought after. It’s a beautiful mixture of folk, psychedelic flourishes and adventurous production combining majestically with Shelagh’s exquisite songwriting and purity of voice. It will immediately appeal to fans of Pentangle, Incredible String Band and Joni Mitchell, as well as the solo records from members of some of the biggest U.S. bands of the 1970s; David Crosby’s ‘If Only I Could remember My Name’ and Gene Clark’s ‘No Other’, and is presented here for the first time ever on vinyl re-issue.

Born in Edinburgh in 1948 before moving to Glasgow and attending the Glasgow School of Art, Shelagh McDonald’s reputation grew rapidly on the London and Bristol folk circuit, gaining a cult following. In her early twenties she cut her first album titled simply ‘Shelagh McDonald’, the following year entering the studio with producer Sandy Roberton (Ian Matthews, John Martyn, Chocolate Watch Band, Steeleye Span) to cut ‘Stargazer’. Unfortunately for Shelagh, following a bad LSD experience, she withdrew from not only the music industry but public life shortly before commencing work on her third album.

However, it is ‘Stargazer’ that continues to grow its reputation, with original copies changing hands for hundreds of pounds.

Imbued with the finest instrumentation and vocal delicacy in late ‘60s folk, the record is heightened by a progressive production approach; the slow organ grooviness in the traditional ‘Dowie Dens of Yarrow’, uplifting gospel overtones of ‘Odyssey’ and the perfect match of melancholic piano and haunting strings by Robert Kirby on the title track. These sublime arrangements all serve Shelagh’s songwriting and soulful voice that invoke the finest folk traditions but at the same time look forward.

The album is the inaugural release on new label Different Strokes For Different Folks with more genre bending, rare and cult records scheduled for 2025.

first pressing sold out on pre-order - here's a repress for late March 2025 on green vinyl - new barcode, new SKU.

After a first This album cover is quite mysterious, isn't it? Let's uncover what's behind it. The first notes of the opening track immediately set the tone: the journey begins. Take the album title literally and allow yourself to be comforted by the tenderness the British band is about to offer.

Dream pop is a genre of its own, characterized by a warm sound, enveloping bass lines, dreamy synths, and beautiful vocals. With "No Rush," Tokyo Tea Room guides the listener through an exploration of their emotions and an escape from everyday life.

Each of the 13 tracks on this project exudes the same tender energy, yet stands out with creative and meticulously crafted compositions. This project is poised to become a staple of the genre.

Die Rockikonen Rush feiern ihr 50-jähriges Jubiläum und präsentieren der Welt die erste vollständige RushAnthologie, die die gesamte Karriere der Band umspannt, mit 50 Titeln, darunter 7 unveröffentlichte, auf 4
CDs und 7 LPs. Den Auftakt der Sammlung bildet die allererste offzielle CD- und LP-Wiederveröffentlichung
der allerersten Singles der Band, „Not Fade Away“ und „You Can’t Fight It”. Abgerundet wird die Anthologie durch Auszüge aus jedem Studio-, Live- und Deluxe-Wiederveröffentlichungsalbum, das die Band
offziell veröffentlicht hat und Vault Editions von „Working Man“ und „The Trees“, die beide alternative
Gitarrensoli enthalten. Als nächstes folgen 5 unveröffentlichte Live-Songs aus dem Jahr 1974 und den
Abschluss der Feier bildet die feurige letzte Aufführung von „What You’re Doing / Working Man / Garden
Road“ mit Neil Peart am 1. August 2015 in Los Angeles.
Hugh Syme, der langjährige Kreativdirektor der Band entwarf brandneue Grafiken zum 50. Jubiläum
sowie neue Illustrationen. Die Rockjournalisten David Fricke und Phillip Wilding berichten in einem 100-
seitigen Hardcover-Buch, das in allen drei physischen Formaten erhältlich ist, anhand unglaublicher Fotos
der Band über ihre persönlichen Erfahrungen mit der Band und ihre größten Erfolge. Exklusiv für die Super
Deluxe Edition hat Fantoons als zweites gebundenes Buch einen 100-seitigen Graphic Novel erstellt

Based in Ottawa, Ontario, the capital city of Canada, The Riptides have been cranking out high-energy blasts of melodic, poppy punk rock for over 25 years. With their new LP Burn After Listening, the band makes the move to Pirates Press Records, and are ready to bring their sound to an all new worldwide audience! Originally formed in 1998, the band wasted no time assembling their own studio and label, putting out their own records as well as their fellow Ottawa bands. Word spread quickly, and the band's notoriety grew, particularly in the US, and soon the band found that they enjoyed rising to the challenge of leaving home and recording at noted US studios, with Burn After Listening being no exception. This album was recorded at the legendary Blasting Room in Fort Collins, CO, with Andrew Berlin at the helm for tracking and Jason Livermore in charge of the final master. These studio sessions included a cavalcade of friends & guest musicians, including members of Teenage Bottlerocket, All American Rejects, Screeching Weasel, and The Queers. A number of songs on the record also bear co-writing credits from fellow Pirates Press Records artist Matt DeeCRACK. Blending attitude-driven downstroke riffs with irresistible hooks and harmonies, combined with an aesthetic informed by everything from nerdy pop culture and surfing, they've already amassed quite the following across the decades, but this record stands poised to introduce them to many new fans.

Released in 1990, Permanent Damage is the fifth and final studio album by British alternative rock band The Icicle Works. Fronted by Ian McNabb, the album features the band’s signature blend of melodic songwriting and energetic rock. Tracks like "Motorcycle Rider" and "Melanie Still Hurts" highlight McNabb's evocative lyrics and strong vocal delivery, making the album a memorable conclusion to their career. Permanent Damage reflects the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their alternative rock roots. Although it marked the end of The Icicle Works' original run, the album holds a special place in the hearts of fans for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship. For those exploring the band’s discography, Permanent Damage serves as a poignant farewell from one of Britain’s cherished alternative rock groups. Permanent Damage is available as a limited edition of 500 copies on translucent yellow coloured vinyl.

From the deepest trenches of deadstock 45s and the unsung annals of soft rock infamy, we present SR4HT02: (Till You're) Back In My Arms.

Universal Cave and the Street Road Band cover Dan Strimer with Insured Sound's cult anthem (Till You're) Back In My Arms which was originally released as a 45 in 1977 on Lost Nation Records out of Guysville, Ohio. When Universal Cave featured Back in My Arms on Soft Rock for Hard Times Vol 8 in 2023, we reached out to Dan Strimer to tell him how much we loved his record, and quickly made a friend who helped us release a cover of his song 47 years after it first came out. Dan is still making music to this day and there are even rumors of some unreleased recordings making their way out in the near future.

On vacation in Hawaii when we released Soft Rock for Hard Times Vol 8, Alex Tebbs Mitchell of Universal Cave kept coming back to Dan's catchy, rural classic rock tune. When Alex returned to Philadelphia, he assembled the Street Road Band to record a laid back, 'southwestern Balearic' cover version with André Ethier on vocals, Charles Simon on guitar, Jesse Spearhawk on Pedal Steel, Alex Tebbs Mitchell on Rhodes and bass, Ryan M. Todd on synthesizers, and Shawn Ryan and Brian Cassidy on additional programming and arrangement. The result is a blissful soft rock ballad inspired by the likes of Chris Rea and Mark Knopfler.

After recording the cover, we called in the UK's finest Balearic maestro's Coyote to take the multitracks to the White Isle and back for a remix worthy of Cafe Del Mar. Coyote send the song into a dreamy, dubby, deep house groove, confirming that the record is, in fact, Balearic.

Mixed by Alex Tebbs Mitchell
Mastered by Mat Leffler-Schulman

Orange Vinyl. Benefits return with the their highly anticipated second album, "Constant Noise" Due out 21st March via Invada Records,"Constant Noise" follows the band's debut album `NAILS' which earned widespread press and radio support and appeared in album of the year lists inc. Louder Than War (#1), BBC 6Music, NME, The Quietus,The Line Of Best Fit and more. After a succession of different line-ups, Benefits have now settled as a two-piece made up of Hall and electronic virtuoso Robbie Major. "We're still angry" says Hall, "just angry in a different way to before. If the previous record was black and white, we wanted this to be technicolour." The first taste of this new musical direction came in the form of "Land Of The Tyrants", which saw the band delving into bass-heavy, dance inflected rhythms and subtle industrial undercurrents. Follow-up single `Relentless' featured The Libertines' Peter Doherty and saw the band move further into ambient electronic atmospherics. Doherty is just one of the collaborators on the new record, Zera Tonin, the singer of queerpop-electro duo Arch Femmesis, Neil Cooper of Therapy?, and Middlesborough rapper Shakk all make cameos. In addition to the guest musicians, the album also features production from James Welsh (Phantasy Sound), and James Adrian Brown (ex-Pulled Apart By Horses)who helped to guide the new direction. The result is an album that gleans as much from the likes of Underworld and Leftfield as it does the likes of The Streets or Beastie Boys in their pomp, or even the 90s / early 00s Indie Sleaze-era. Orange vinyl comes with full album download (inc. two tracks not on vinyl)

Benefits kehren mit ihrem mit Spannung erwarteten zweiten Album "Constant Noise" zurück. "Constant Noise" erscheint am 21. März über Invada Records und folgt auf das Debütalbum "NAILS". Nach einer Reihe verschiedener Besetzungen haben sich Benefits nun als Zwei-Mann-Band etabliert, bestehend aus Frontmann Kingsley Hall und dem Elektronik-Virtuosen Robbie Major. "Wir sind immer noch wütend", sagt Hall, "nur auf eine andere Art als früher. Wenn die vorherige Platte schwarz-weiß war, wollten wir, dass diese Platte in Technicolor erstrahl". Der erste Vorgeschmack auf diese neue musikalische Richtung kam in Form von "Land Of The Tyrants", bei dem die Band in basslastige, tanzbare Rhythmen und subtile Industrial-Unterströmungen eintauchte. Bei der Nachfolgesingle "Relentless" wirkte Peter Doherty von den Libertines mit, und die Band bewegte sich weiter in Richtung elektronischer Ambient-Atmosphären. Doherty ist nur einer der Mitstreiter auf dem neuen Album. Zera Tonin, der Sänger des Queerpop-Elektro-Duos Arch Femmesis, Neil Cooper von Therapy? und der Rapper Shakk aus Middlesborough haben alle einen Gastauftritt. Zusätzlich zu den Gastmusikern wurde das Album von James Welsh (Phantasy Sound) und James Adrian Brown (ex-Pulled Apart By Horses) produziert, die die neue Richtung mitbestimmten. Das Ergebnis ist ein Album, das von Underworld und Leftfield ebenso viel hat wie von The Streets oder den Beastie Boys in ihrer Blütezeit oder sogar von der Indie-Sleaze-Ära der 90er und frühen 00er Jahre.

Saxon are an English heavy metal band formed in Barnsley in 1975. As leaders of the new wave of British heavy metal (NWOBHM), they had eight UK Top 40 albums during the 1980s. They established themselves among Europe's most successful metal acts. The band tours regularly and have sold more than 23 million records worldwide The Eagle Has Landed - part II was recorded during their European tour in support of their Dogs of War album (MOVLP3570). It delves deeply into the band's latter-day catalog and offers excellent sound quality to boot. It's packed with fan favourites and features guitar legend Yngwie Malmsteen as a guest on the track "Denim and Leather". The Eagle Has Landed - part II is available a limited numbered edition of 1000 copies on translucent red vinyl and contains a 4 page booklet and additional cover print.

Iconic British band McFly are celebrating their 21st anniversary with the
release of a special live album, marking over two decades of musical success
This landmark release, recorded at the McFly 21 Show at the London O2 Arena, parts
of which was recently broadcast on ITV, offers fans a unique opportunity to
experience the band's journey through their most beloved songs.
The album serves as a time capsule of McFly's evolution, blending their infectious
pop-rock sound with deeper, more mature moments. The tracklisting is packed with
crowd favourites, from early hits like "I Wanna Hold You" and "Bubblewrap" to later
tracks such as "Shine A Light" and "The Heart Never Lies." The band's musical range is
on full display, with upbeat tracks like "Broccoli" and "Party Girl," as well as
introspective songs like "Memory Lane" and "Forever's Not Enough." The anniversary
collection also includes the powerful "Transylvania" and fan-favourites like "Red" and
"I've Got You," showcasing McFly's versatility and timeless appeal.
The ITV broadcast and physical release offer an opportunity for fans to relive McFly's
greatest moments, both on stage and in the studio. This anniversary album is a
celebration of McFly's lasting legacy and their continued relevance in the pop music
world. With an impressive tracklist and the stunning ITV broadcast, this milestone
release is not to be missed.

Das Londoner Ska-Punk-Pop-Indie-Quartett Buster Shuffle kommt mit brandneuem Album zurück, welches am 21. März 2025 erscheinen wird. Das elf Tracks umfassende Album "Together" ist ihr sechstes Studioalbum und verspricht, ihr bisher größtes zu werden, randvoll mit eingängigen Singalongs die garantiert für Aufsehen sorgen und Mitsingen animieren. Sänger & Frontmann Jet sagt: "Unsere Fans, die Shuffle Army, bedeuten uns alles und haben uns vom ersten Tag an unterstützt, also wollten wir ein Album schreiben, auf dem wir zusammenkommen und uns die Seele aus dem Leib singen können. Wir freuen uns riesig darauf, diese Songs zu präsentieren". Die Platte wird einige Überraschungen bereithalten, so z.B. als Jet und die Jungs es schafften, eine 2000-köpfige Menge dazu zu bringen, die Hookline für den Track 'Take a Pill' einzusingen. Ein Lied über den Zusammenhalt und das Navigieren durch eine schwere Zeit: "Die Zeiten sind im Moment für viele Leute wirklich hart, also müssen wir aufeinander aufpassen. Frag deinen Kumpel, deinen Partner, deine Liebsten, wie es ihnen geht, lege deinen Arm um sie, melde dich. Das Ethos dieses Albums ist es, offen zu reden, sich gegenseitig zu unterstützen und zusammenzukommen." Die Jungs veröffentlichen "Together" auf ihrem eigenen Label Do Nothing Records, und wie ihre vorherige Veröffentlichung "Go Steady" wurde auch diese von der Band selbst produziert. Zur Feier der Veröffentlichung dieses "We're In This Together"-Albums wird die Band vier große Städte mit vier Album Launch Shows bespielen, die ihre bisher größten Shows im jeweiligen Land sein werden. "Together" kommt als CD, MC & LP, Vinyl in unterschiedlichen Farben und Sleeve-Artworks erhältlich!

Das Londoner Ska-Punk-Pop-Indie-Quartett Buster Shuffle kommt mit brandneuem Album zurück, welches am 21. März 2025 erscheinen wird. Das elf Tracks umfassende Album "Together" ist ihr sechstes Studioalbum und verspricht, ihr bisher größtes zu werden, randvoll mit eingängigen Singalongs die garantiert für Aufsehen sorgen und Mitsingen animieren. Sänger & Frontmann Jet sagt: "Unsere Fans, die Shuffle Army, bedeuten uns alles und haben uns vom ersten Tag an unterstützt, also wollten wir ein Album schreiben, auf dem wir zusammenkommen und uns die Seele aus dem Leib singen können. Wir freuen uns riesig darauf, diese Songs zu präsentieren". Die Platte wird einige Überraschungen bereithalten, so z.B. als Jet und die Jungs es schafften, eine 2000-köpfige Menge dazu zu bringen, die Hookline für den Track 'Take a Pill' einzusingen. Ein Lied über den Zusammenhalt und das Navigieren durch eine schwere Zeit: "Die Zeiten sind im Moment für viele Leute wirklich hart, also müssen wir aufeinander aufpassen. Frag deinen Kumpel, deinen Partner, deine Liebsten, wie es ihnen geht, lege deinen Arm um sie, melde dich. Das Ethos dieses Albums ist es, offen zu reden, sich gegenseitig zu unterstützen und zusammenzukommen." Die Jungs veröffentlichen "Together" auf ihrem eigenen Label Do Nothing Records, und wie ihre vorherige Veröffentlichung "Go Steady" wurde auch diese von der Band selbst produziert. Zur Feier der Veröffentlichung dieses "We're In This Together"-Albums wird die Band vier große Städte mit vier Album Launch Shows bespielen, die ihre bisher größten Shows im jeweiligen Land sein werden. "Together" kommt als CD, MC & LP, Vinyl in unterschiedlichen Farben und Sleeve-Artworks erhältlich!

Das Londoner Ska-Punk-Pop-Indie-Quartett Buster Shuffle kommt mit brandneuem Album zurück, welches am 21. März 2025 erscheinen wird. Das elf Tracks umfassende Album "Together" ist ihr sechstes Studioalbum und verspricht, ihr bisher größtes zu werden, randvoll mit eingängigen Singalongs die garantiert für Aufsehen sorgen und Mitsingen animieren. Sänger & Frontmann Jet sagt: "Unsere Fans, die Shuffle Army, bedeuten uns alles und haben uns vom ersten Tag an unterstützt, also wollten wir ein Album schreiben, auf dem wir zusammenkommen und uns die Seele aus dem Leib singen können. Wir freuen uns riesig darauf, diese Songs zu präsentieren". Die Platte wird einige Überraschungen bereithalten, so z.B. als Jet und die Jungs es schafften, eine 2000-köpfige Menge dazu zu bringen, die Hookline für den Track 'Take a Pill' einzusingen. Ein Lied über den Zusammenhalt und das Navigieren durch eine schwere Zeit: "Die Zeiten sind im Moment für viele Leute wirklich hart, also müssen wir aufeinander aufpassen. Frag deinen Kumpel, deinen Partner, deine Liebsten, wie es ihnen geht, lege deinen Arm um sie, melde dich. Das Ethos dieses Albums ist es, offen zu reden, sich gegenseitig zu unterstützen und zusammenzukommen." Die Jungs veröffentlichen "Together" auf ihrem eigenen Label Do Nothing Records, und wie ihre vorherige Veröffentlichung "Go Steady" wurde auch diese von der Band selbst produziert. Zur Feier der Veröffentlichung dieses "We're In This Together"-Albums wird die Band vier große Städte mit vier Album Launch Shows bespielen, die ihre bisher größten Shows im jeweiligen Land sein werden. "Together" kommt als CD, MC & LP, Vinyl in unterschiedlichen Farben und Sleeve-Artworks erhältlich!

Das Londoner Ska-Punk-Pop-Indie-Quartett Buster Shuffle kommt mit brandneuem Album zurück, welches am 21. März 2025 erscheinen wird. Das elf Tracks umfassende Album "Together" ist ihr sechstes Studioalbum und verspricht, ihr bisher größtes zu werden, randvoll mit eingängigen Singalongs die garantiert für Aufsehen sorgen und Mitsingen animieren. Sänger & Frontmann Jet sagt: "Unsere Fans, die Shuffle Army, bedeuten uns alles und haben uns vom ersten Tag an unterstützt, also wollten wir ein Album schreiben, auf dem wir zusammenkommen und uns die Seele aus dem Leib singen können. Wir freuen uns riesig darauf, diese Songs zu präsentieren". Die Platte wird einige Überraschungen bereithalten, so z.B. als Jet und die Jungs es schafften, eine 2000-köpfige Menge dazu zu bringen, die Hookline für den Track 'Take a Pill' einzusingen. Ein Lied über den Zusammenhalt und das Navigieren durch eine schwere Zeit: "Die Zeiten sind im Moment für viele Leute wirklich hart, also müssen wir aufeinander aufpassen. Frag deinen Kumpel, deinen Partner, deine Liebsten, wie es ihnen geht, lege deinen Arm um sie, melde dich. Das Ethos dieses Albums ist es, offen zu reden, sich gegenseitig zu unterstützen und zusammenzukommen." Die Jungs veröffentlichen "Together" auf ihrem eigenen Label Do Nothing Records, und wie ihre vorherige Veröffentlichung "Go Steady" wurde auch diese von der Band selbst produziert. Zur Feier der Veröffentlichung dieses "We're In This Together"-Albums wird die Band vier große Städte mit vier Album Launch Shows bespielen, die ihre bisher größten Shows im jeweiligen Land sein werden. "Together" kommt als CD, MC & LP, Vinyl in unterschiedlichen Farben und Sleeve-Artworks erhältlich!

Ignite’s A Place Called Home 25th anniversary edition on vinyl with bonus tracks out in March 2025 Svart Records is proud to reissue the Californian melodic hardcore band Ignite’s album A Place Called Home. Previously released on vinyl only on its original release date in 2000 on TVT Records, A Place Called Home will finally be available on wax again on March 21st, 2025. Formed in Orange County in 1993, Ignite's sound is hard to pin down. Their music contains elements of punk, hardcore, alternative, and even heavy metal. Their 30-year career has produced several classic albums with A Place Called Home being their commercial breakthrough album, combining the spirit and muscle of hardcore and the catchy tunes of west coast punk rock. Sixteen songs loaded with great hooks, compelling, socially conscious lyrics, and the heaviness that hard music fans love. The band’s bassist and founding member Brett Rasmussen comments the reissue: "When I found out that the guys at Svart Records were licensing A Place Called Home for a vinyl reissue I was beyond stoked. This album will finally be available again, after being out of press for so long, and this time there will be colored vinyl! I'm really looking forward to spinning this reissue and I'm happy that it will be available for our fans to enjoy again on a turntable." The authorised Svart Records 25th anniversary edition of this modern genre-defining classic contains three bonus tracks previously only available on the European CD version of the album and comes with an insert. Available on Svart exclusive black & white marble vinyl, limited transparent red vinyl, and classic black vinyl. A Place Called Home is out on March 21st, 2025.

Ignite’s A Place Called Home 25th anniversary edition on vinyl with bonus tracks out in March 2025 Svart Records is proud to reissue the Californian melodic hardcore band Ignite’s album A Place Called Home. Previously released on vinyl only on its original release date in 2000 on TVT Records, A Place Called Home will finally be available on wax again on March 21st, 2025. Formed in Orange County in 1993, Ignite's sound is hard to pin down. Their music contains elements of punk, hardcore, alternative, and even heavy metal. Their 30-year career has produced several classic albums with A Place Called Home being their commercial breakthrough album, combining the spirit and muscle of hardcore and the catchy tunes of west coast punk rock. Sixteen songs loaded with great hooks, compelling, socially conscious lyrics, and the heaviness that hard music fans love. The band’s bassist and founding member Brett Rasmussen comments the reissue: "When I found out that the guys at Svart Records were licensing A Place Called Home for a vinyl reissue I was beyond stoked. This album will finally be available again, after being out of press for so long, and this time there will be colored vinyl! I'm really looking forward to spinning this reissue and I'm happy that it will be available for our fans to enjoy again on a turntable." The authorised Svart Records 25th anniversary edition of this modern genre-defining classic contains three bonus tracks previously only available on the European CD version of the album and comes with an insert. Available on Svart exclusive black & white marble vinyl, limited transparent red vinyl, and classic black vinyl. A Place Called Home is out on March 21st, 2025.

On their latest album, XIXA leave the sunbaked desert behind, taking listeners on a journey through the underworld. Diving into the richness of folklore, Brian Lopez and Gabriel Sullivan, who share XIXA’s songwriting, lead vocals and lead guitars, expand on their mystic, psychedelic rock, reaching more into their Latin influences to create a musical and lyrical narrative for XOLO, an album exploring both a mythic journey and what messages it might have for today. XOLO (in both band name and album title, the x is pronounced like ch) refers to the breed of Mexican hairless dog, Xoloitzcuintli. In Mayan and Aztec cultures, these dogs were held sacred and believed to have been guides through the underworld, Mictlán. The record loosely tells the story of a young girl, Arcoiris, who is guided through all nine levels of Mictlán by her sacred protector, El Xolo. The songs represent the various encounters El Xolo and Arcoiris experience while finding their way through a land of mystery and shadow. In a way, the idea of a Xolo-themed record pre-dates the band itself.

Obliteration is imminent: As The World Dies return with their triumphant second offering. “Nebula” is a colossal lesson in crushing death metal and cosmic mysticism. “‘Nebula’ is the quintessence of what As The World Dies is all about,” band leader and scene veteran Scott Fairfax says. “We pushed our musical boundaries and wanted to create an album that was both brutal and thought-provoking. It’s heavier, darker and more profound than anything we’ve done before.”

While we go about our petty business, leading our small and insignificant live under the sun, death is hurtling towards us at breakneck speed: An asteroid names Apophis will come in very close contact with planet Earth in 2029. Aptly named after the Egyptian god of dissolution, darkness and chaos, it has the power to obliterate life as we know it. Seriously: it doesn’t get any more death metal than this.

Scott Fairfax is well aware of that. The death metal veteran of Memoriam fame is back with his other vehicle of death and destruction, As The World Dies. Three years after their earthshattering and star-studded debut “Agonist”, he’s taking things into space with “Nebula”, a cosmic death metal requiem of colossal proportions. Brought to life and recorded mostly by Scott Fairfax alone in his home studio, this isn’t so much of a band effort and rather the work of a dedicated individual pissed off by pretty much everything going on around him.

Angry, haunting and miserable songs are, though. “Nebula” is full of them. An album like an uncompromising alien threat to our planet, as unrelenting and indifferent as an asteroid. The end is coming, folks. Let’s all enjoy it while we can

Obliteration is imminent: As The World Dies return with their triumphant second offering. “Nebula” is a colossal lesson in crushing death metal and cosmic mysticism. “‘Nebula’ is the quintessence of what As The World Dies is all about,” band leader and scene veteran Scott Fairfax says. “We pushed our musical boundaries and wanted to create an album that was both brutal and thought-provoking. It’s heavier, darker and more profound than anything we’ve done before.”

While we go about our petty business, leading our small and insignificant live under the sun, death is hurtling towards us at breakneck speed: An asteroid names Apophis will come in very close contact with planet Earth in 2029. Aptly named after the Egyptian god of dissolution, darkness and chaos, it has the power to obliterate life as we know it. Seriously: it doesn’t get any more death metal than this.

Scott Fairfax is well aware of that. The death metal veteran of Memoriam fame is back with his other vehicle of death and destruction, As The World Dies. Three years after their earthshattering and star-studded debut “Agonist”, he’s taking things into space with “Nebula”, a cosmic death metal requiem of colossal proportions. Brought to life and recorded mostly by Scott Fairfax alone in his home studio, this isn’t so much of a band effort and rather the work of a dedicated individual pissed off by pretty much everything going on around him.

Angry, haunting and miserable songs are, though. “Nebula” is full of them. An album like an uncompromising alien threat to our planet, as unrelenting and indifferent as an asteroid. The end is coming, folks. Let’s all enjoy it while we can

Nach einem Jahrzehnt, in dem die Band das Beste aus improvisierten Aufnahmeräumen in Lagerhäusern, Wohnwagen und Lofts gemacht hat, ist „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“, das vierte Album von Japanese Breakfast, die erste richtige Studioveröffentlichung der Band. Produziert von Grammy-Preisträger Blake Mills, zieht sich Frontfrau und Songschreiberin Michelle Zauner von der hellen Extrovertiertheit des Vorgängers „Jubilee“ zurück, um die dunkleren Wogen zu erforschen, die in ihrem Inneren aufgewühlt sind, das launische, fruchtbare Feld der Melancholie, das seit langem als der psychische Zustand von Dichtern am Rande der Inspiration gilt. Das Ergebnis ist eine künstlerische Absichtserklärung: ein reifes, komplexes, kontemplatives Werk, das den romantischen Nervenkitzel einer Gothic Novel heraufbeschwört. „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“ folgt einer transformativen Periode in Zauners Leben, in der ihr zweifach GRAMMY-nominiertes Durchbruchsalbum ‚Jubilee‘ und ihre Bestseller-Memoiren ‚Crying In H Mart‘ sie in den kulturellen Mainstream katapultierten und ihre tiefsten künstlerischen Ambitionen erfüllten. Als sie über diesen Erfolg nachdachte, erkannte Zauner die Ironie der Sehnsucht, die so oft Glückseligkeit und Verderben miteinander verbindet. „Ich fühlte mich verführt, das zu bekommen, was ich immer wollte“, sagt sie. „Ich flog zu nah an die Sonne heran, und mir wurde klar, dass ich sterben würde, wenn ich weiterflöge“. Das Schicksal von Ikarus und anderen Verdammten verleiht „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“ sein beständigstes Thema: die Gefahren des Begehrens. Wie zerstreutes Licht führen seine spektralen Teile die Charaktere des Albums durch Zyklen von Versuchung, Übertretung und Vergeltung. In „Orlando in Love“ - ein Riff auf John Cheevers Riff auf „Orlando Innamorato“, einem unvollendeten Epos, das aus 68 Cantos des Renaissance-Dichters Matteo Maria Boiardo besteht - ist der Held ein gutmütiger Dichter, der sein Winnebago am Meer parkt und dem Ruf einer Sirene zum Opfer fällt, seinem 69. Canto (selbst im erhabenen Reich des klassischen Mythos hat Zauner ein Faible für Anspielungen). „Honey Water“ lotet die stille Wut einer Frau aus, die mit einem untreuen Mann verheiratet ist und zusieht, wie er immer wieder der Lust nachgibt wie ein niederes Insekt, das seinen eigenen Untergang herbeiführt Traurigkeit ist in der Tat die dominierende emotionale Tonart dieser Platte, aber es ist eine Traurigkeit der besonderen Art: die nachdenkliche, vorausschauende Traurigkeit der Melancholie, in der die Erkenntnis des im Wesentlichen tragischen Charakters des Lebens mit Sensibilität für seine flüchtige Schönheit einhergeht. Zauner findet in ihr genügend Raum für Hoffnungsschimmer. Es sind die Tröstungen der Sterblichen, die Dichter vor ihr gerufen haben und die Dichter nach ihr immer wieder neu entdecken werden: Liebe und Arbeit, und obwohl sie sich wie stärkende Vorsätze durch die vielen Episoden des Albums ziehen, erklingen sie am deutlichsten im letzten Song, „Magic Mountain“, einer Auseinandersetzung mit Thomas Manns berühmtem gleichnamigen Roman. Für sie fühlt sich jede Arbeit wie das Erklimmen eines Berges an, aber von der Spitze von „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“ aus blickt sie in die Zukunft.

Nach einem Jahrzehnt, in dem die Band das Beste aus improvisierten Aufnahmeräumen in Lagerhäusern, Wohnwagen und Lofts gemacht hat, ist „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“, das vierte Album von Japanese Breakfast, die erste richtige Studioveröffentlichung der Band. Produziert von Grammy-Preisträger Blake Mills, zieht sich Frontfrau und Songschreiberin Michelle Zauner von der hellen Extrovertiertheit des Vorgängers „Jubilee“ zurück, um die dunkleren Wogen zu erforschen, die in ihrem Inneren aufgewühlt sind, das launische, fruchtbare Feld der Melancholie, das seit langem als der psychische Zustand von Dichtern am Rande der Inspiration gilt. Das Ergebnis ist eine künstlerische Absichtserklärung: ein reifes, komplexes, kontemplatives Werk, das den romantischen Nervenkitzel einer Gothic Novel heraufbeschwört. „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“ folgt einer transformativen Periode in Zauners Leben, in der ihr zweifach GRAMMY-nominiertes Durchbruchsalbum ‚Jubilee‘ und ihre Bestseller-Memoiren ‚Crying In H Mart‘ sie in den kulturellen Mainstream katapultierten und ihre tiefsten künstlerischen Ambitionen erfüllten. Als sie über diesen Erfolg nachdachte, erkannte Zauner die Ironie der Sehnsucht, die so oft Glückseligkeit und Verderben miteinander verbindet. „Ich fühlte mich verführt, das zu bekommen, was ich immer wollte“, sagt sie. „Ich flog zu nah an die Sonne heran, und mir wurde klar, dass ich sterben würde, wenn ich weiterflöge“. Das Schicksal von Ikarus und anderen Verdammten verleiht „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“ sein beständigstes Thema: die Gefahren des Begehrens. Wie zerstreutes Licht führen seine spektralen Teile die Charaktere des Albums durch Zyklen von Versuchung, Übertretung und Vergeltung. In „Orlando in Love“ - ein Riff auf John Cheevers Riff auf „Orlando Innamorato“, einem unvollendeten Epos, das aus 68 Cantos des Renaissance-Dichters Matteo Maria Boiardo besteht - ist der Held ein gutmütiger Dichter, der sein Winnebago am Meer parkt und dem Ruf einer Sirene zum Opfer fällt, seinem 69. Canto (selbst im erhabenen Reich des klassischen Mythos hat Zauner ein Faible für Anspielungen). „Honey Water“ lotet die stille Wut einer Frau aus, die mit einem untreuen Mann verheiratet ist und zusieht, wie er immer wieder der Lust nachgibt wie ein niederes Insekt, das seinen eigenen Untergang herbeiführt Traurigkeit ist in der Tat die dominierende emotionale Tonart dieser Platte, aber es ist eine Traurigkeit der besonderen Art: die nachdenkliche, vorausschauende Traurigkeit der Melancholie, in der die Erkenntnis des im Wesentlichen tragischen Charakters des Lebens mit Sensibilität für seine flüchtige Schönheit einhergeht. Zauner findet in ihr genügend Raum für Hoffnungsschimmer. Es sind die Tröstungen der Sterblichen, die Dichter vor ihr gerufen haben und die Dichter nach ihr immer wieder neu entdecken werden: Liebe und Arbeit, und obwohl sie sich wie stärkende Vorsätze durch die vielen Episoden des Albums ziehen, erklingen sie am deutlichsten im letzten Song, „Magic Mountain“, einer Auseinandersetzung mit Thomas Manns berühmtem gleichnamigen Roman. Für sie fühlt sich jede Arbeit wie das Erklimmen eines Berges an, aber von der Spitze von „For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)“ aus blickt sie in die Zukunft.

The sounds, songs, and passages within Power Sucker are the very reason that Young Widows are still a band after an 11-year creative pause; they remain masters at making music with equal parts sonic and emotional weight. Young Widows have inspired scores of underground artists across the globe with their unique collage of noise-rock, hardcore, and post-punk and pioneering presentation. The Young Widows sound - or more accurately, the Young Widows feel - is in full battering ram motion on their fifth studio album. The heaviness of Power Sucker isn't mysterious. The Louisville, Kentucky power trio play their individual parts with such recognizable precision and style that once entwined together each completed piece becomes an integral part of the puzzle. The sizzling guitars, growling bass, and lock-tight drums rip through the pavement that Young Widows had previously laid to allow the most forward-moving vocal arrangements of their now two-decade career. Historical accomplishments aside, Power Sucker has the shock and wonder of a new band's debut album. After all, this is the regrouping of three passionate lifers once again sharing their undying love for the art of sound. No one and no thing can take those powers away.

The sounds, songs, and passages within Power Sucker are the very reason that Young Widows are still a band after an 11-year creative pause; they remain masters at making music with equal parts sonic and emotional weight. Young Widows have inspired scores of underground artists across the globe with their unique collage of noise-rock, hardcore, and post-punk and pioneering presentation. The Young Widows sound - or more accurately, the Young Widows feel - is in full battering ram motion on their fifth studio album. The heaviness of Power Sucker isn't mysterious. The Louisville, Kentucky power trio play their individual parts with such recognizable precision and style that once entwined together each completed piece becomes an integral part of the puzzle. The sizzling guitars, growling bass, and lock-tight drums rip through the pavement that Young Widows had previously laid to allow the most forward-moving vocal arrangements of their now two-decade career. Historical accomplishments aside, Power Sucker has the shock and wonder of a new band's debut album. After all, this is the regrouping of three passionate lifers once again sharing their undying love for the art of sound. No one and no thing can take those powers away.

Born from a childhood friendship, the five members of Ciao Kennedy have crafted their own sound and feeling after exploring a variety of different musical horizons. Following the release of EPs 'Keldercave' (2021) and 'the problem is' (2022), as well as being featured on the compilation Lefto presents Jazz Cats Vol. 3 in the spring of 2024, it was only a matter of time for the Brussels-based band to reappear on the music circuit.

As part of the Magma collective, alongside groups like TUKAN and ECHT!, they started to stand out with their instrumental music merging the playfulness of jazz,the repetitive facets of post-rock, and the overtly grand electronic sound evident in what is nowadays described through the grapevine as the 'Brussels sound'.

With Solarium, their debut album set to be released under the Sdban Ultra label, they have found a course and common denominator in guitars drenched with post-rock effects, steered by hypnotic electronic beats, creating an atmosphere of rare, dense melancholy, peppered with a sound that belongs in a blockbuster sci-fi movie.

Ciao Kennedy and its debut album are a tangy candy bursting in your mouth, the thrill of an afternoon at the fair, modernity meeting up with the nostalgia of childhood. Or standing beneath the shimmering neon lights of a rainy night, like colourful poetry, blending tenderness with electric intensity. Many of these musical descriptions would be completely off the mark, but after a few listens, they don't seem to miss the mark either. There's something for everyone to discover on this album, oscillating between the familiar and the unexpected, melancholy and cheer, and while everyone keeps on talking about something being a 'vibe', we can only conclude that Ciao Kennedy is the only one putting this into action.

To celebrate the release of Solarium, the band will host a release party at the Brussels venue Botanique on April 17, 2025. A must-attend event for everyone who wants to see if the live reputation which precedes Ciao Kennedy is actually true. Whatever happens, make sure to keep that date free.

Release show: 17/04 Botanique, Brussels.

Exzellenter Sampler mit einer sorgfältigen Auswahl 10 unveröffentlichter Songs der 1970er AOR-/Folk-Rock-Band Synod aus Chicago, Illinois. Die Tracks wurden zwischen 1972-1984 für Alben aufgenommen, die nie erschienen sind. Tramp Records bringt nun in Kooperation mit der Band diese Schätze erstmals heraus - digital, auf 7" Singles vorab und nun zum ersten Mal gesammelt als limitierte Deluxe-LP-Auflage, gepresst auf recycletem Biovinyl, im Gatefold, mit ausführlicher Biografie, unveröffentlichten Fotos und Downloadcode.

Strut Records is proud to announce a new official reissue of Simigwa by Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, launching a series of releases on Strut celebrating the legendary Ghanaian label Essiebons.

Essiebons, founded by Ghanaian music producer Dick Essilfie-Bondzie in 1959, is one of Ghana's most important independent labels featuring prominent artists such as Gyedu-Blay Ambolley, C.K. Mann, and Ebo Taylor. Ambolley’s Simigwa is a groundbreaking album, recognised as a Ghanaian classic and boasting one of the most iconic covers of the 1970s. Originally released in 1975, the album introduced Ambolley's unique "Simigwa" style, which combined highlife with funk and soul, influencing the evolution of a new generation of Ghanaian artists.

This new Strut LP reissue features an exclusive interview with Ambolley himself, offering fresh insights into the creation of this classic album.

Gyedu-Blay Ambolley’s innovative fusion of highlife with influences from American soul and funk solidified his position as a key figure in Ghana’s vibrant 1970s music scene. His solo career followed work with iconic bands such as Houghas Extraordinaires, Meridians of Tema, Ghana Broadcasting Band and the Uhuru Dance Band. Inspired by the legendary James Brown, Simigwa delivers infectious rhythms, dynamic horn sections, bold vocal stabs, and mesmerising percussion breaks. An enduring classic for all fans of highlife and Afro-funk.

Playing with a Different Sex was the debut album by seminal post-punk band Au Pairs, released in 1981.

Described retrospectively by AllMusic as ‘one of the great post-punk records’, a review by Record Mirror on its release said the band’s ‘critique of all forms of possession and sexual stereotyping assumes a devastating power’. Themes include sexual politics and the torture of women imprisoned in Northern Ireland during The Troubles of the 1970s, as well as a stunning cover of David Bowie’s ‘Repetition’ about domestic violence. It peaked at No. 33 in the UK, and features the single ‘It's Obvious’, which reached No. 37 on the US Club Play Singles chart. Playing with a Different Sex is available as a numbered limited edition of 750 copies on turquoise coloured vinyl and contains an insert.

45 Pounds is a record of thrilling cacophony: whirring drums meet the sound of instruments which have been twisted and bent into new shapes, all of which are paired with the arresting growls of Zack Borzone. Across the record the four-piece re-imagine what is possible within the confines of a band set up, creating music that perfectly encapsulates the information overload of our times.

The band have become known for their stellar live performances and now with 45 Pounds they have set that electrifying feeling to record. With 45 Pounds YHWH Nailgun have created a statement that is short to cut through the modern day post-algorithmic sludge. Stay tuned for more news.

2025 marks 40 years since Ricky Ross met Dougie Vipond and they started to form Deacon Blue, the songs on "The Great Western Road" reflect the journey the band has taken and remain honest to the age and experience they all share. Ricky Ross: "It"s just the next part of the adventure and it"s as exciting now as it was back in 1988". The joyous lead single "Late "88" fondly remembers the care-free excitement of those early days. The "Great Western Road" was recorded at the legendary Rockfield Studios, Ricky Ross and (Deacon Blue guitarist and long term collaborator) Gregor Philp return to production duties, having last produced the bands" Top 5 charting and their last full length album, 2020"s "City Of Love". This album was recorded by Matt Butler, who first worked with the band on their debut, "Raintown".

Neon pink vinyl, limited to 500 copies. Who were the first punks? Do The Damned have more of a shout than The Sex Pistols? The Stooges or Ramones? Gregg Deal, the acclaimed visual and performance artist behind his new project Dead Pioneers, is making a claim that Indigenous Americans were the first real punks. Deal suggests that the overarching theme of the album is "an introduction to the band itself". Created with a DIY disposition and the "love of a scene that saves lives", they reel off a roll call of marginalised groups and protected characteristics: "Indigenous rights, Black rights, Brown rights, Asian rights, Gay rights, Trans rights, Workers rights and beyond_". This is central to their identity and focus, saying that "with a North American Indigenous person as the vocalist, being unapologetically upfront on the social, political and cultural side of things doesn't seem necessary, but paramount to the overall tone of the band." This self-titled debut, coming in at a lithe 22 minutes with only one of the twelve tracks exceeding three minutes, is almost over before it begins, but covers a huge amount of ground in that time. Blistering opener 'Tired' sets out their stall; as with the whole album, it is passionate, but never preaching. Capitalised 'Political Music' can be hard to land without coming across as hectoring or earnest, but Deal's literary, humorous lyrics effortlessly cut through complex issues of marginalisation and colonialism.

"Encore Du Pain" by the legendary British punk band Buzzcocks, a rare live album that captures the raw energy and unapologetic spirit of one of punk rock's most influential acts. Recorded during their explosive European tour, this album brings fans into the heart of a live Buzzcocks show, where sharp guitar riffs, relentless rhythms, and unforgettable hooks define each track. Known for their groundbreaking approach to punk, Buzzcocks combined fast-paced, catchy melodies with lyrics that explored love, alienation, and the angst of youth. Fronted by the iconic Pete Shelley, whose distinctive voice and songwriting were complemented by the powerful guitar work of Steve Diggle, the band crafted a sound that was both gritty and emotionally resonant. This vinyl reissue allows both long-time fans and new listeners to experience "Encore Du Pain" in rich, analog sound, preserving the authentic live atmosphere that made Buzzcocks a defining voice in punk.

"Encore Du Pain" by the legendary British punk band Buzzcocks, a rare live album that captures the raw energy and unapologetic spirit of one of punk rock's most influential acts. Recorded during their explosive European tour, this album brings fans into the heart of a live Buzzcocks show, where sharp guitar riffs, relentless rhythms, and unforgettable hooks define each track. Known for their groundbreaking approach to punk, Buzzcocks combined fast-paced, catchy melodies with lyrics that explored love, alienation, and the angst of youth. Fronted by the iconic Pete Shelley, whose distinctive voice and songwriting were complemented by the powerful guitar work of Steve Diggle, the band crafted a sound that was both gritty and emotionally resonant. This vinyl reissue allows both long-time fans and new listeners to experience "Encore Du Pain" in rich, analog sound, preserving the authentic live atmosphere that made Buzzcocks a defining voice in punk.

Das Londoner Ska-Punk-Pop-Indie-Quartett Buster Shuffle kommt mit brandneuem Album zurück, welches am 21. März 2025 erscheinen wird. Das elf Tracks umfassende Album "Together" ist ihr sechstes Studioalbum und verspricht, ihr bisher größtes zu werden, randvoll mit eingängigen Singalongs die garantiert für Aufsehen sorgen und Mitsingen animieren. Sänger & Frontmann Jet sagt: "Unsere Fans, die Shuffle Army, bedeuten uns alles und haben uns vom ersten Tag an unterstützt, also wollten wir ein Album schreiben, auf dem wir zusammenkommen und uns die Seele aus dem Leib singen können. Wir freuen uns riesig darauf, diese Songs zu präsentieren". Die Platte wird einige Überraschungen bereithalten, so z.B. als Jet und die Jungs es schafften, eine 2000-köpfige Menge dazu zu bringen, die Hookline für den Track 'Take a Pill' einzusingen. Ein Lied über den Zusammenhalt und das Navigieren durch eine schwere Zeit: "Die Zeiten sind im Moment für viele Leute wirklich hart, also müssen wir aufeinander aufpassen. Frag deinen Kumpel, deinen Partner, deine Liebsten, wie es ihnen geht, lege deinen Arm um sie, melde dich. Das Ethos dieses Albums ist es, offen zu reden, sich gegenseitig zu unterstützen und zusammenzukommen." Die Jungs veröffentlichen "Together" auf ihrem eigenen Label Do Nothing Records, und wie ihre vorherige Veröffentlichung "Go Steady" wurde auch diese von der Band selbst produziert. Zur Feier der Veröffentlichung dieses "We're In This Together"-Albums wird die Band vier große Städte mit vier Album Launch Shows bespielen, die ihre bisher größten Shows im jeweiligen Land sein werden. "Together" kommt als CD, MC & LP, Vinyl in unterschiedlichen Farben und Sleeve-Artworks erhältlich!

It's hard to imagine El León Pardo, a loyal advocate of some of the most advanced projects in which folklore is the road map and the destination itself, without his kuisi. It's hard to see him with his hands free. Always holding on to that ancestral instrument, that pre-Colombian flute that survived the conquest and has become a symbol of resistance, overcoming the ravages of time, the imposition of ideologies, dogmas and religions. Despite all that, the kuisi continues with its liberating sound, the power of its cry, its invitation to dance, its sound a cure and a blessing. That's why it leads the way in this Viaje Sideral ("Space Voyage"), an astral journey in which the kuisi is the vehicle and the life force of the rhythm. Viaje Sideral feels like floating eternally in the infinite cosmos. This second long player from El León Pardo is inspired by humanity's relationship with the stars, escaping to mythical planes and led into a trance by Caribbean percussions, analog synths, deep bass, electric guitars and the hypnotic vibrations of the kuisis and trumpets that complete the soundtrack of this voyage. Through these nine songs, El León Pardo continues to create a sound of his own, evolving in his intention to pay tribute to the psychedelia of the tropical world of the Caribbean in the 1970s and 80s, but this time also taking as reference artists like Terry Riley, Kraftwerk and Mad Professor, including the roots of ambient and electronic music with the characteristic sound of the kuisi, an encounter of dreamlike and astral sounds, with the music of the bandas pelayeras of the tropics and figures like Pedro Laza and Juan Lara. In this new universe the Cartagena trumpeter dialogs with the past, processing the ideas that have emerged over the years and morphed into his personal search that gives an identity to his ideas, nurtured by figures like producer Diego Gómez (Llorona Records, Discos Pacífico, Cerrero) who awoke his interest in electronic instruments, Edson Velandia and kuisi maestros like Juan Carlos Medrano and Fredy Arrieta. In his sound there is a particular feature, one that contains histories of personal experiences, accompanied by the kuisi, including ancient Zenú flutes dating from between 600 and 800 AD and which helped create the atmosphere of "Invocación." "Viaje Sideral," the song that gives the album its name, was born from a dream in which two stars speed towards the earth and an imminent collision. As the record continues, the stellar connection becomes clear with songs like "Urmah" with Edson Velandia, inspired by an article about extra-terrestrial races and how the Urmah were a race of hominid felines, the greatest geneticists of the universe; and "Cumbia espacial," featuring rapping from N. Hardem, seeking to create that aura of immensity and consciousness of the infinity of the universe.

Formed in Oakland just before the pandemic's onset in late 2019, SPY has built on the foundation of bands like Bad Brains and Poison Idea rather than following the current wave of metallic hardcore. They’re set to unleash their latest EP, Seen Enough, on Closed Casket Activities, out February 21. No song on Seen Enough ever overstays its welcome, instead embodying what makes hardcore frenetic. Burning through six songs in under ten minutes, every track is a testament to the energy the band has built up through relentless touring. SPY worked with Jack Shirley at Oakland's Atomic Garden to record the EP. Shirley captured their essence by recording live to tape, eschewing the modern practice of individual tracking in favor of a more immediate, visceral approach that better represents their explosive live show. That in-room chemistry is immediately apparent – songs like "Stay In Your Lane" maintain the texture and grit you'd get at a show in between every huge riff. Seen Enough doesn't hide what it's about: society's continued descent with diminishing hope for course correction. From the jump, SPY has followed in the lineage of Bay Area punks like Dead Kennedys and Ceremony in both attitude and awareness. Their latest offering maintains the critical edge of their earlier material while expanding their lyrical scope, delivering a streamlined punch that hits hard through its runtime. By staying true to themselves, SPY has carved out their own niche in the modern hardcore landscape. After touring with legends and contemporaries alike including Gel, Full of Hell, Ceremony, Municipal Waste, Sunami and playing basically every fest worth caring about including Sound and Fury, Outbreak, Sick New World and LDB, 2025 is set to be a monstrous year for SPY.

Their tenth studio album, Bird in Paradise, is set to be released next March 7, 2025 via BMG Australia and includes recent dance-floor filler ‘La Gracia’. "When we set out to make the album Bird in Paradise, we wanted to make a more musically rich album than we had before, which featured the band instrumentally like never before." - Ollie “Musically speaking, Bird in Paradise is an Australian - Flamenco, Afro-Cuban project. We've drawn from the themes of contemporary flamenco and Cuban music, and combined it with the grit, and toughness of Aussie rock history." – Felix. Available on: 1CDSoft Pack packaging. No Booklet. Standard Disc Artwork or 1LP Standard Sleeve. Inner Sleeve Component. Blue Wren Colour (Opaque). No booklet.

BLACK/RED VINYL

A match made in heaven and hell, since forming in the cradle of Europe Athens, back in 2012, dark synth duo Selofan have paved their own perditious way, reinventing the modern Darkwave scene throughout the continent and worldwide with their prolific creativity and work ethic over the past decade. Through varied experimental synth-scapes conjured with keen ears for sound design, production, and theatrical aesthetics, Selofan rest not on the laurels of just creating highly danceable coldwave infused music, but with together with Joanna Pavlidou's haunting vocals, and Dimitris Pavlidis' throbbing bass guitar, and modular synth compositions, the pair conjure whole other worlds and narratives throughout each album and music video they create. Thus far the Selofan have released 5 studio albums, issued through their own legendary label they curate themselves: Fabrika Records. Through their Fabrika family, Selofan have championed such acts as Lebanon Hanover, and She Past Away, aiding these bands in becoming two of the most popular Darkwave acts worldwide. Drab Majesty even cameoed in a She Past Away video while being hosted by Selofan during one of the band's frequent stays in Athens, and Kaelan Mikla, a handpicked favorite of The Cure, were first championed by Selofan, through the release of the Icelandic Trio's self-titled debut in 2016. In the Spring of 2020, Selofan released the video for the hopelessly plaintive "There Must Be Somebody", the first single from their forthcoming sixth studio album Partners In Hell, the follow-up to 2018's widely popular Vitrioli LP. "There Must be Somebody" is a discordant composition, mimicking the startled song of birds after a disturbance in a wooded enclave on a mountainside, while a magick ritual unfolds. The album itself opens with "Grey Gardens", a menagerie of morose melodies setting a sombre tone for the rest of a bleak record whose sound design and dreamscapes evoke the best sounds of British and German post-punk of the 80s. "Almost Nothing" is a brooding bell-driven track with a dark and pirouetting melody that is the perfect soundtrack to a figurine twirling in a music box. The German language "Nichts" means No, and this song is both sinister and cinematic with sighing keys, shuddering drum machines, and German lyrics sung with sorrowful conviction. "Zusamen", is a word often asked if you are together, or separate, is a dark ballad whose shadowy keys weave a nightmarish delirium, evoking the soundscapes of a lullaby sung in a haunted dollhouse. "4am" is a restless rhythm, whose soft percussive melody tosses and turns alongside subtle bass and string accents overlaid with despondent vocals. "Happy Consumers" sounds like the swirling of a finger drawn upon the edge of crystalline glass, with vocals and drum machines coming emanating from an adjacent room with echoing acoustics, collectively evoking the sound like lingers when the somnambulist wakes from his dream. "Absolutely Absent" hums onward like a phantom train ride that is a one-way ticket to madness, and with the next track "Metalic Isolation" the locomotive beats gather more steam, propelled forward with anachronistic melody. The album closes with "Auf Dein Haut", which translates as on your skin, and the song is both tactile and tenebrous with sensuously dark synth textures amidst howling German vocals that take flight like witches during a sabbat. Partner's In Hell was mixed and produced by Serafim Tsotsonis, and mastered by Doruk Ozturkcan. Genre: Alternative / Post-Punk / Cold Wave

Abstract Orchestra's composer, leader, arranger and producer Rob Mitchell has now added remixing to his already notable list of credits, in this case turning his hand to Abstract's MADVILLAIN project. Rob has worked with many artists during his busy career; The Haggis Horns, Rag 'n' Bone Man, Sharon Jones and the Dap–Kings, Brand New Heavies, and Slum Village, alongside many others but it was the orchestra's work he wanted to revisit. Seeing the pandemic as an opportunity to spend more time in the studio, Rob spent several months polishing his production skills before embarking on this remix project, he wanted to make sure he did it justice. Working under the moniker Ghostlife, a nod to the fabled anonymity of rapper MF DOOM, Rob has reworked the big band orchestration of Abstract, creating a beat led affair with greater dance floor appeal.

For Abstract Orchestra MADVILLAIN REMIXES, Ghostlife cherry picked ten tracks from Abstract's two-album project and plays with a higher BPM count within the hip hop aesthetic of the original. The tracks include "Raid", "Fancy Clown", "Curls", and "Figaro" and in this case Ghostlife has forgone the big arrangements Abstract is known for, rather he has coaxed out hooks and samples from their tracks and produced something he hope will appeal to a different crowd. There is dancefloor potential in "Eye","Accordian" and bass heavy "Borrowed Time" while the reworks of 'Fancy Clown" and "Curls" would fit well into any radio show.

"Nichts ist gut und alles könnte besser sein. Schlecht gelaunt und zuversichtlich, konzentriert und ablenkbar sucht das Berliner Trio Acht Eimer Hühnerherzen auf ihrem vierten Studioalbum "Lieder" das Glück dort, wo es knirscht im Nylonpunk-Gebälk: in der Sackgasse mit Wendekreis, in den kurzen hellen Nächten und den langen dunklen Tagen, an den Rändern des Alltags, wo die Sprachfetzen trauern und tanzen. 14 Montagen, die 15 mal neu ansetzen, abbiegen, vorankommen - und versprechen. Wo "Lieder" nicht drängelt, da ist es am dringlichsten; wo es rumpelt, ist es geschmeidig; und wo es leise ist, da wird es laut." Robert Zwarg Musik mit einer Dreiviertelmensur-Nylonsaiten-Konzertgitarre, einem Nylonsaiten-Kurzbass, Schlagzeug, Fuzz und Overdrive. Live und analog recorded im Studio-B Berlin, auf 16 Spur-Bandmaschine, keine Loops, keine Beats, keine Edits, keine Hunde. Produziert von Kurt Ebelhäuser & SmaiL Shock & Acht Eimer Hühnerherzen.

Marineblaues Vinyl, limitiert auf 500 Exemplare. Exklusiv für den Indie-Handel.



"Nichts ist gut und alles könnte besser sein. Schlecht gelaunt und zuversichtlich, konzentriert und ablenkbar sucht das Berliner Trio Acht Eimer Hühnerherzen auf ihrem vierten Studioalbum "Lieder" das Glück dort, wo es knirscht im Nylonpunk-Gebälk: in der Sackgasse mit Wendekreis, in den kurzen hellen Nächten und den langen dunklen Tagen, an den Rändern des Alltags, wo die Sprachfetzen trauern und tanzen. 14 Montagen, die 15 mal neu ansetzen, abbiegen, vorankommen - und versprechen. Wo "Lieder" nicht drängelt, da ist es am dringlichsten; wo es rumpelt, ist es geschmeidig; und wo es leise ist, da wird es laut." Robert Zwarg Musik mit einer Dreiviertelmensur-Nylonsaiten-Konzertgitarre, einem Nylonsaiten-Kurzbass, Schlagzeug, Fuzz und Overdrive. Live und analog recorded im Studio-B Berlin, auf 16 Spur-Bandmaschine, keine Loops, keine Beats, keine Edits, keine Hunde. Produziert von Kurt Ebelhäuser & SmaiL Shock & Acht Eimer Hühnerherzen.

Also includes a large double sided poster , colour inner sleeves and liner notes by Gerald V Casale.

Spuds rejoice. After years of requests, Futurismo are thrilled to announce a brand new limited pressing of the DEVO’s incredible Recombo DNA 4xLP with Mini CD Set, plus also available is a brand new 3xCD version.


For decades Devo have been working non-stop at Recombo DNA Laboratories on a new kind of research to keep up with the mutating world around us. That extensive research is now ready for public consumption once again. Futurismo were the first to bring you this on vinyl and now they present unhindered access into Devo’s labs, documenting the scientific analysis and demonstrations as conducted by the band between the years 1977-2008.



This tireless research has manifested itself in Recombo DNA…an unmissable collection of studio demos and unreleased rare tracks that span Devo’s entire recording career, from their original basement days to their famed ’Freedom Of Choice’ era, right the way through to unused demos from their last studio album. You may know the track ‘Baby Doll’ but do you know it’s original incarnation as ‘Satan’? If you submit to the findings of Recombo DNA Labs you will, Futurismo’s version of this compilation includes six bonus tracks taken from the archives that had never been released, or even heard before.



This limited edition 4xLP set is a sonic fusion of demos, alternate versions and outtakes, demonstrating the true breadth and talent of one of America’s most important bands. But this set doesn’t stop at four beautiful slabs of mutated vinyl, also included is ’The Somewhere Suite’ served up on the format it was originally intended to be back in the May of ‘89, advertised although never released, it’s contained here in all it’s full length glory on a 3” Mini CD. Recombo DNA is also coming on a 3xCD digipak version for the very first time from Futurismo, including all the wonderful artwork and bonus material. Devo’s Recombo DNA is an essential addition to the collection of any science fearing spud, and the perfect sister release to last years Art Devo. The original 2017 pressing of Recombo DNA sold out in less than 48 hours, so grab this while you can. Each set includes 4xLP on limited edition coloured vinyl and includes a Mini CD. This fantastic collection of devolved recordings and bonus tracks are contained within the gloss laminated wide spined sleeve, with newly tweaked artwork, a huge A1 poster, full colour inner sleeves and liner notes by Gerald V Casale. A 3xCD digipak version is also available. Submit to these findings and witness audio mutation in action.

Es gibt wenige Gruppen, die nach 20 Jahren Bandgeschichte immer noch stolz zurückblicken können auf ein Gesamtwerk, das so konsequent innovativ ist wie auch von der Kritik gefeiert.

Inszenierten sich The Horrors auf ihrem Debüt 'Strange House' von 2007 noch als Zeitgeist aufrüttelnde Garagen-Goths, schlugen sie auf dem Mercury-nominierten Nachfolger 'Primary Colours' eine scharfe Linkskurve in Richtung Shoegaze ein - von Anfang an bewegten sie sich frei zwischen Genres und Atmosphären. Das 2011 erschienene 'Skying' gewann den NME Award für das beste Album, 'V' wurde in einer Fünf-Sterne-Rezension des Guardian als „ein Triumph“ gefeiert, während die beiden EPs von 2021 - 'Lout' und 'Against The Blade' - mit ihrem bisher industriellsten und kompromisslosesten Output ein neues Kapitel aufschlugen.

Mit ihrem sechsten Album 'Night Life' hat die Band einmal mehr eine neue Form angenommen, mit neuem Sound und diesmal auch neuer Besetzung, und bleiben so ganz die Alten.

Ltd. Col. LP: (Crystal Clear Vinyl)

Es gibt wenige Gruppen, die nach 20 Jahren Bandgeschichte immer noch stolz zurückblicken können auf ein Gesamtwerk, das so konsequent innovativ ist wie auch von der Kritik gefeiert.

Inszenierten sich The Horrors auf ihrem Debüt 'Strange House' von 2007 noch als Zeitgeist aufrüttelnde Garagen-Goths, schlugen sie auf dem Mercury-nominierten Nachfolger 'Primary Colours' eine scharfe Linkskurve in Richtung Shoegaze ein - von Anfang an bewegten sie sich frei zwischen Genres und Atmosphären. Das 2011 erschienene 'Skying' gewann den NME Award für das beste Album, 'V' wurde in einer Fünf-Sterne-Rezension des Guardian als „ein Triumph“ gefeiert, während die beiden EPs von 2021 - 'Lout' und 'Against The Blade' - mit ihrem bisher industriellsten und kompromisslosesten Output ein neues Kapitel aufschlugen.

Mit ihrem sechsten Album 'Night Life' hat die Band einmal mehr eine neue Form angenommen, mit neuem Sound und diesmal auch neuer Besetzung, und bleiben so ganz die Alten.

Seit mehr als einem Vierteljahrhundert lärmt sich Sänger und Gitarrist Harry Armstrong in verschiedenen Bands durch die britische Musikszene: ORANGE GOBLIN, DECOMPOSED, HANGNAIL, END OF LEVEL BOSS, THE WINCHESTER CLUB, EARLS OF MARS, BLIND RIVER_um nur einige zu nennen. Am 21. März 2025 folgt nun endlich das langersehnte zweite Album von NOISEPICKER auf Exile On Mainstream. Nach dem 2018 veröffentlichten Erstling war es zwar nicht wirklich ruhig geworden um die Zweimann-Band mit Kieran Murphy (u.a. COLD COMFORTS, PAIGE KENNEDY), verschiedene Verpflichtungen wie z.B. der extensive Tour-Schedule von Orange Goblin, ließen wenig Zeit für Studioaufnahmen. Doch nun ist es soweit. Nachdem NOISEPICKER auf dem EOM25-Festival im Mai 2024 bereits erste neue Songs vorstellten, ging es kurz danach ins Studio. The Earth Will Swallow The Sun ist das Ergebnis und überrascht mit einem Sound, den Peace Off 2018 bereits vorwegnahm, der aber nun zu voller Blüte gereift ist. Auf der Basis von Blues und Noise erschaffen Noisepicker etwas völlig eigenständiges, mit deutlichen akustischen Verweisen an Tom Waits ebenso wie an The Jesus Lizard. Inhaltlich ist das Album eine Abrechnung mit politischen und gesellschaftlichen Themen, die uns aktuell beschäftigen und die Ohnmacht, unterdrückte Wut ebenso illustrieren wie die Möglichkeit eines Ausbrechens, ohne in blinden Aktionismus zu verfallen. Hier ist nichts poliert, perfekt oder konstruiert. Stattdessen sind NOISEPICKER laut, authentisch und ständig im Wandel, beeinflusst von allem, was Doom, Punk und Blues ist. Und diese Herangehensweise kanalisieren sie in Songs, die emotional, catchy und einzigartig sind.

With Helldorado, the third installment of SPIRITWORLD’s death-western trifecta, chief hombre Stu Folsom and his rhinestone- encrusted, Stetson-wearin' wrecking crew take you deeper into a world where the hot desert sun beats down on a singular vision of the American West as a gateway to hell. “It’s a different album than the past two,” says Folsom of the thematic and sonic journey that began with the Las Vegas band’s 2020 Pagan Rhythms LP and continued with 2022’s Deathwestern. From the honky-tonk swing of opener "Abilene Grime" to the Slayer-worthy riffing of "No Vacancy in Heaven" and the unforgettable "Oblivion" (which features members of Black Braid and Rise Against), SPIRITWORLD's story rides on with this latest offering, blasting Mojave-born bloodlust and stomping tomahawk riffs while charging straight into a sonic vision of macabre Americana.

Seit mehr als 25 Jahren vollbringen My Morning Jacket das seltene Kunststück, ein langjähriges kulturelles Erbe zu bewahren und gleichzeitig die Neugier und den kreativen Hunger ihrer frühen Tage zu erhalten. Für ihr 10. Studioalbum hat sich die Band mit dem mit dem GRAMMY Award ausgezeichneten Produzenten Brendan O'Brien (Springsteen, Pearl Jam) zusammengetan, um ihr bisher meisterhaftestes Werk zu schaffen, das einmal mehr die Grenzen ihres Sounds erweitert und ihre Kunstfertigkeit in ungeahnte Höhen treibt.

Seit mehr als 25 Jahren vollbringen My Morning Jacket das seltene Kunststück, ein langjähriges kulturelles Erbe zu bewahren und gleichzeitig die Neugier und den kreativen Hunger ihrer frühen Tage zu erhalten. Für ihr 10. Studioalbum hat sich die Band mit dem mit dem GRAMMY Award ausgezeichneten Produzenten Brendan O'Brien (Springsteen, Pearl Jam) zusammengetan, um ihr bisher meisterhaftestes Werk zu schaffen, das einmal mehr die Grenzen ihres Sounds erweitert und ihre Kunstfertigkeit in ungeahnte Höhen treibt.

The Taxpayers are a long-running experimental, genre-bending DIY punk band that started in Portland, Oregon in 2007. Their critically acclaimed 2012 concept album God, Forgive These Bastards is about the rise and fall of a fictional baseball player, featuring the hit song, “I Love You Like an Alcoholic”. It was released alongside a book of the same name written by Rob Taxpayer. The story was turned into a musical stage production by the Hum’n’bards Theater Troupe in 2018. After a several year hiatus, The Taxpayers have been selling out shows across the United States, headlining festivals in Australia, and are now set to release their first full-length album in 8 years, titled “Circle Breaker”, in conjunction with the boundary-defying Ernest Jenning Record Company.

Die Weltuntergangsuhr steht derzeit auf 90 Sekunden vor Mitternacht. So nah waren der große und der kleine Zeiger noch nie dran, unsere totale Zerstörung zu signalisieren, seit der konzeptionelle Chronograph 1947 ins Leben gerufen wurde. Wenn wir schon am Rande des Abgrunds tanzen, dann sollten wir auch dafür sorgen, dass die Musik gut ist. Daniel Brandt von der hochgelobten deutschen elektroakustischen Band Brandt Brauer Frick führt den apokalyptischen Rave mit seinem dritten Soloalbum "Without Us" an.

Goldstar takes perennial New Yorkers, IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT's exploration of the extreme and arcane and delivers the band’s most focused, authentic and accessible work to date. While the triumvirate has expanded the language of extreme music with albums including Alphaville (2021) and Spirit of Ecstasy (2023) via musical improvisation and a visual obliqueness that extends to their haunting masked performances, this is their defining moment. Also joining the Decibel magazine vaunted ensemble are Meshuggah drummer Thomas Haake and legendary drummer, Dave Lombardo, both of whose presence makes it clear that musically, IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT are in a class by themselves. From album opener “Eye of Mars” to the stirring “Hotel Sphinx” and the death metal scraping “Rot Moderne”, this is the sound of IMPERIAL capitalizing on months of churning up the road in the company of Behemoth, Carcass and Zeal & Ardor. In their vision of urban disorder, IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT's monolithic cityscapes are dark as any of their extreme or black metal brethren.

Reinventing himself as a vocalist on his new album 'Silver Blue', Pomrad fuses 80s fusion funk, raw electro-dance, and 90s rave grooves to craft his unique style of cosmic crooners. For Fans of Prince, Hudson Mohawke and Herbie Hancock.

Drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres, the record pays homage to the iconic African American productions of the '80s-such as Prince, One Way, the Gap Band, and Whitney Houston-while also nodding to UK-styled genres like Street Soul (The Antipode), '90s R&B (Is It True) or even grotesque 2-step (Sad Dancer).

Throughout the album, layered synth textures from instruments like the Yamaha DX7, RolandD-50, Simmons SD-5, and Korg Opsix create otherworldly atmospheres (Silver Blue), as tracks swing from the playful funk naivety of an '80s TV show intro (How It Feels) to corny synth ballads (Sweet Dear Lucky) or happy clapping turned hardstyle (Suzy Got Lost).

Pomrad wrote the songs over the past few years in his home studio in the Antwerp area. After a seven-year hiatus, following his collaboration with Onra, he returns as a fearless singer and storyteller with a distinctly Belgian surrealist flair.

Im Herbst 2022 lebte Phil Cook allein in einem kleinen Haus am Rande von Feld und Wald in North Carolinas Piedmont. Die meiste Zeit seines Leben lang lebte er in der Nähe der Herzen der Städte, die er sein Zuhause nannte, in der Nähe des ächzenden Verkehrs und des Trubels in den Coffee Shops. Diese Nähe Nähe trug dazu bei, dass der gesellige Cook ein produktiver Mitarbeiter wurde, als Mitbegründer von Megafaun bis zur Zusammenarbeit mit The Blind Boys of Alabama, Bon Iver, Hiss Golden Messenger und unzähligen anderen. Aber Cooks nächster war ein Wanderweg, und so ging er hin und lauschte, hingerissen erst von der Stille und dann von den vielen Vögeln. Er begann, sein Fensterbrett jede Nacht einen Spalt offen zu lassen, damit der Chor der Vögel im Morgengrauen ihn begrüßte. Cook begann, diese verworrenen Vogelstimmen aufzunehmen, und er schloss sich ihnen an. Wenn die Sonne schließlich hoch stand, hörte Cook sich die Aufnahmen des Tages an und improvisierte in Echtzeit auf dem Instrument, das seine erste und unerschütterlichste Liebe seines musikalischen Lebens geblieben ist: das Klavier. Als Cook diese Hütte nach einem Jahr verließ, zog er in ein eigenes Haus in Durham, mit viel Platz für seine beiden Jungs zum Spielen und für etwas, das er noch nie besessen hatte: ein richtiges Klavier. In den nächsten Monaten verbrachte Cook unzählige Stunden damit, an diesen Stücken zu feilen. Während des Unterrichts beim großen Südstaaten-Gospelpianisten Chuckey Robinson hatte dieser Cook aufgefordert, weniger Noten zu halten und seine Melodien nicht mehr durch die Verwendung der Pedale des Instruments als Krücken zu benutzen. Seine Musik hatte plötzlich mehr Klarheit, und die Klänge und Gefühle, die sie transportierten, hatten mehr Raum zum Funktionieren. Cook grub sich in die Gefahr und Freude, in die Idee, dass wir unsere Körper zu Knoten verdrehen um zu verstehen, was das Beste für unsere Herzen ist. Im April 2024 kehrte Cook in das Chippewa Valley in Wisconsin zurück, wo er aufgewachsen war. Sein lebenslanger Freund und Bandkollege, Justin Vernon, hatte gerade die Renovierung von April Base abgeschlossen, dem Studio, in dem Cook in den letzten 15 Jahren an mehr als einem Dutzend Platten gearbeitet hat. Cook bat Vernon, Appalachia Borealis so einfach wie möglich zu produzieren, nur zuzuhören und in zwei ausgedehnten Nachmittagssitzungen Feedback zu geben, um die richtigen Takes auszuwählen, die, die das Herz erfasst haben. Natürlich wurde das Ganze komplizierter, als sie anfingen in dem Prozess zu experimentierten. Vernon fügte die Vogelstimmen zu Cooks Kopfhörern hinzu oder entfernte sie, um zu sehen, wie sie sich auf sein Spiel auswirkten. Oder sie leiteten seine Noten durch eine massive Hallkammer und Cook reagierte darauf mit hauchzarten Improvisationen. Appalachia Borealis ist eine zutiefst ergreifende und persönliche Sammlung von 11 Klavier Meditationen, die die emotionale Bandbreite einer vollen und offenen Existenz abbilden. Inspiriert von diesen Improvisationen auf der Fensterbank, spiegelt es nicht nur die Aufruhr und die Traurigkeit einer schwierigen Zeit für Cook, sondern auch die Hoffnung, das Licht und die Freude, nach der anderen Seite zu schauen. Manchmal kann man noch die Vögel hören, deren Melodie und Zeit so viele dieser Lieder inspiriert haben. Selbst wenn sie nicht in Hörweite sind, bleibt ihre Essenz bestehen.

Besançon, sometime before lockdown… Still in high school, Laszlo, Baptiste, Matthieu, Maël and Marius, driven by a common desire to make people dance till they sweat, formed Wet Enough!?, and began to make music together, driven by a burning passion for funk, electro, rap and disco.

Early 2023, they were contacted by Antoine Rajon from label KOMOS who was to go on to produce their debut EP “DASH”, released in January 2024. A series of gigs followed in Paris, London, Brussels and the Jazz à Vienne festival under the aegis of Astérios Spectacles. That same year, they were also selected to take part in the Inouïs talent showcase at the Printemps de Bourges, as representatives of the Bourgogne Franche-Comté region.

The “Burgundy Five” then studied at music schools in Brussels, Amsterdam and Lausanne, in institutions more open than their French counterparts when it comes to exploring the full gamut of musical styles; they also frequently met up for composition sessions and concerts.

In September 2024, they left for London to record their debut album, in the studio of producer and musician Malcolm Catto, as he was charmed by a live at ‘91 Living Room’ in Brick Lane. The Heliocentrics drummer and sonic wizard behind Yussef Kamal’s famous ‘Black Focus’, used his trademark analogue approach to help craft 10 powerful tracks, collectively composed and arranged by the group.

On this release, we detect the influence of American groups like Ghost-Note and Butcher Brown, but also an energy almost akin to punk rock. And especially, we can sense an enthusiastic appetite for defying genres, without a care for codes or the constraints of aesthetic purism.

Their starting point is new jazz, conjuring up current scenes in the UK and America (‘Green Tangerine’, ‘Emile Lédonien’, ‘Lullaby for a riot’), but they soon wander into the club with the unashamed housey inflections of ‘Dump’ (carried aloft by Galawesh Heril on vocals). When Marius, the trombonist grabs the mic, he displays mastery of chiselled flow and old school French hip-hop vibes (‘Lascars, San Pé’) as well as ultra-modern, alternative aesthetics (Les 2).

During the studio sessions in London, the band invited two British musicians to guest on the record - a junglist rapper from Manchester, OneDa, who illuinates up single ‘One Leg’ with the brightness of her rhymes; and a Londoner, saxophonist Camilla George who offers a vibrant solo, riding high over the amped-up groove of Funk4.

There’s no doubt they shall join the group for upcoming shows whose philosophy is also expressed in the album’s title :

DANCING PEOPLE DON’T DRY.

Way back in 1962 all roads led to Dartford in Kent when a coming together of influences would result in the formation of the world’s greatest rock and roll band,The Rolling Stones...
Mick Jagger the singer and Keith Richards lead guitarist were both fans of early rockers Chuck Berry and Bo Diddley, whilst rhythm guitarist and harmonica player Brian Jones and pianist Ian Stewart would be immersed in the Blues that were coming from Chicago,the same influences would bring the original bassist Dick Taylor and drummer Tony Chapman to the party.

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

REPRESS of the Warble Womb double album. Warble Womb is the sixth studio album by American psychedelic rock band Dead Meadow. It was released in November 2013 under Xemu Records

REPRESS of the Warble Womb double album. Warble Womb is the sixth studio album by American psychedelic rock band Dead Meadow. It was released in November 2013 under Xemu Records

TC.KYLIE x The Hourglass brings dynamic jazz fusion music from her debut album, integrating Hong Kong, Japanese and British cultures. Kylie leads her band dynamically on stage playing keyboard and synth keytar, iconic in Japanese jazz rock & highly memorable to watch.TC.KYLIE, a jazz fusion pianist, performs regularly in both Hong Kong and London. Inspired by the likes of Shaun Martin and Robert Glasper, she also continues to write songs in the areas of Japanese acid jazz, following Fox Capture Plan, Jabberloop, Toconoma, Jizue and Bohemianvoodoo. Prior to becoming a performing artist, Kylie previously worked as a news documentary journalist for radio and TV networks in Hong Kong, She spent much of her time connecting human stories and investigating the connections between people and society which was inspiring and enlightening but also often heavy and difficult within increasingly tricky political landscapes unfolding around her.

Under the changing social environment in her hometown and with the hit of the pandemic, she decided to take an indefinite well-earned break in 2020 to take care of her own well-being & passions. During a stay at a jazz cafe and hostel in Lake Towada in Aomori, Japan, encouraged by the hostel owner as a jazz enthusiast; Kylie sat in front of the piano, contemplated and played scattered notes to express what she had been enduring during her time as a political/social reporter.

Finding herself joyfully picking up music in her life again after years of leaving it behind, she wrote the song "The Last Grief" a tribute to one of her deepest sorrows and in remembrance of her best friend in childhood who battled heavily with depression. This song went on to be an official selection for the International Toronto Music Video Festival as well as the Toronto Asian Independent Film Festival in 2023.

Cross Record's new album, Crush Me, is steeped in the pressures and wonders of existence—a profound statement, especially coming from artist and death doula Emily Cross. A two-and-a-half-year gestation period offered challenges, disappointments, and joys reflected in the cramped space of the album, which explores how we handle the weights we carry. Emily Cross had held hundreds of Living Funerals and was as many episodes deep into her podcast, What I’m Looking At. She was five years into serving clients as a death doula and fresh off a tour with Loma, her band with Jonathan Meiburg (Shearwater) and Dan Duszynski, when she began work on her fourth album. After moving from Austin, TX to Dorset, UK, she established the Steady Waves Center for Contemplation (named after a track from her second record, Wabi-Sabi ), where she hosted Living Funerals, met clients, scheduled mindful tea sessions, and showcased experimental music nights. All the while, she was scribbling down song ideas. Cross’s Tascam four-track demos finally reached readiness, and she sent them to an interested major independent label. She was encouraged to push her imagination to the limits of what a record could be. So, unlike her usual process of recording as inexpensively as possible, she prepared a two-week recording session in Germany with a group of skilled musicians from around the world. True to her previous work, Cross left plenty of room in her demos for experimentation, collaboration, chance, improvisation, and complete obliteration, then resurrection when necessary. Comfort and traditional structure were eschewed in favor of unaccountable magic, prayers whispered into The Void. Cross is comfortable with the chaotic and unpredictable, a perspective demanded by her work and writing style. The Berlin Airbnb was packed with people, instruments and luggage. During a ride down in a tiny elevator to the studio, Cross realized how central the sense of being crushed was to the album. “I thought of it later and it dawned on me that ‘Crush Me’ perfectly embodied the record,” says Cross. Yes, the weight of a body laying limply atop yours, or the tight squeeze of a hug, can be pleasant. Go too far, and you’re in the hands of a cruel, adolescent god. Upon leaving Germany, the record was unfinished, and without a roadmap. As passages were recorded as isolated parts, Cross and musician Marcin Sulewski collaborated, facing a haphazard brick pile, waiting to be assembled. Work dipped in and out of view like a buoy bobbing in a violent sea over many months. During that time, the aforementioned interested label went radio silent, suddenly not seeming so sure of a thing. Collaborators disappeared, continuing the themes of abandonment, surrender, and disarray that followed the project. Cross physically felt her entire body go numb: In a twist of fate, the record was rescued by long-time friend and supporter Ben Goldberg at Ba Da Bing Records who was eager to help realize the project. Cross worked for months on the album, all the while nursing a pregnancy and continuing her full-time funeral work. The last minute participation of Seth Manchester of Machines with Magnets, who mixed and mastered, was an essential liferaft. He gave true final form to the abstracted songs. Crush Me has the effect of a spell being cast, with songs balancing heaviness and levity. Vocals, guitars, and keyboards float above, as drums and upright bass (often bowed) lurch beneath. On “Rolling Backwards” percussion wanders about while feedback squeals and persists in the distance. “Dorset Area Of Natural Beauty” starts with a thick, unhinged church organ progression punctuated by the disquieting sounds of laughter reaching the point of hysteria. “God Fax” is a slow-moving panic attack, with shallow breaths in and out framing a guttural cacophony like a wooden freighter encountering increasingly turbulent waters and vocals struck emotionless by autotune. The album ends with “Twisted Up Fence,” a reflection on life from outside the wall--wistful, warm, and comforting. Cross, likely with a smile on her face, sings: “You say it’s an endless abyss” “And I say the abyss is the best”

"Released in 2002, Head on Straight marks Tonic's third studio effort, a testament to the band's steadfast dedication to their sound amidst a rapidly evolving alternative music landscape. The album garnered significant recognition, earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Album at the 45th Grammy Awards, while the track ""Take Me As I Am"" received a nod for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
Producer Bob Rock introduced a more polished sound to the album but still showcases Tonic's signature blend of driving rock rhythms and emotive ballads. Head On Straight is available on vinyl for the first time and includes an insert."

Cornflake Zoo was one of many untamed garage rock bands that burst out of Sweden in the wake of The Nomads. Their debut single, Hey Conductor, dropped in 1985 on the legendary Tracks On Wax label – the same stomping ground as the early days of The Creeps. With fuzzed-out guitars, a swirling Farfisa organ, and raw energy, they tore through the scene, releasing an EP, another single, and making stellar appearances on international garage rock compilations. But by the time they pulled the plug in 1990, their sound had transformed from ragged, riff-heavy garage rock to shimmering, melodic wimp-pop. And every note they played was pure magic. Now, we’re thrilled to announce the release of the ultimate Cornflake Zoo compilation, Knights Of Fuzz! This collection captures all their released tracks and throws in a few bonus tracks for good measure. It’s time to unearth Haninge’s best-kept secret and experience the sounds of a band that truly deserved to conquer the world. Set for release April 2205.

Features members of Pansy Division, Avengers, Camper Van Beethoven, Anohni and the Johnsons, Oranger, Enorchestra and the State Band of Guanajuato. Panorama is an LGBTQIA+ album and it is a bilingual Spanish/English album .Recorded in Leon, Guanajuato with a cross section of notable US underground music stalwarts and emerging Mexican instrumentalists. VIDA VELLA is the manifestation of a dream a lifetime in the making. Apocalyptic yet optimistic balladry. Tijuana native and NYC transplant Luis Gabriel Illades, longtime member of Pansy Division, Avengers and touring drummer for countless acts steps in the singer/songwriter role with VIDA VELLA, a bilingual exploration of universal human emotional themes.

Fourteen records in eight years. Side-projects records, experimental EPs, a double album of B-sides, splits and collections of demos: in just a few years, Bordeaux-born Thoineau Palis has built up a discography as fascinating as it is plethoric, in which he pays tribute in his own way to the heroes of a rock pantheon all his own, populated by lofi geeks and beautiful losers of all kinds.

Negative Freaks, TH da Freak's fifteenth album, sets the record straight in a way, since it's the first album by TH da Freak "the band", a collective incarnation hitherto reserved for the stage. This first album, composed entirely by the five of them, breaks a pattern established several years ago, with Thoineau contributing finished compositions that were then reworked collectively for live performance. The 5 Bordelais impose on themselves the use of what they call the "negative scale", dissonant and disturbing sonorities that they apply to compositions initially structured as pop tracks. This approach, combined with the casual, surreal lyrics written by Palis (influenced by intensive listening to the likes of Oingo Boingo, Devo and P-Model), lends an unprecedented coherence to the tracks on the album. Negative Freaks sounds like a massive grunge monolith, driven by a collective, radical vision that is assertive from start to finish. Impressive for a debut album

The infamous Baltimore/DC grind axis unloads another salvo in the form of Heirs to Thievery. A tremendous step forward for the band on both the songwriting and production fronts, Heirs to Thievery propels MISERY INDEX to the forefront of the international death metal scene. As "The Carrion Call", "The Spectator", "Plague of Objects" and the title track all underscore, Heirs to Thievery is the most ferocious and memorable MISERY INDEX album to date.

International metal giants Misery Index have returned! The brand new full-length Discordia brings the bands punishing and articulate assault to a deadly new level. Commanding vocals roar incisive lyrics and spearhead a vicious swarm of forward-thinking metal. A crossroads where blasting metal, stark passion, and raw fury collide, Discordia is a compelling statement of intent from a band shaping the face of extremity-to-come. As seen on tour with Mastodon, Nile, Suffocation, The Red Chord, Dying Fetus and more!

Don McLean's The Western Album is a 1973 release blends folk, rock, and country influences. The album features McLean's storytelling style, exploring themes like love, loss, and Americana, with a focus on Western imagery. It includes tracks like "The Good Old American Dream" and "The Legend of Andrew McCrew. The Western album remains notable for its introspective lyrics and rich sound.

Das neue Album markiert ein weiteres Kapitel in der sich ständig weiterentwickelnden Erforschung von Progressive-, Alternativeund Art-Rock und fängt O.R.k.s charakteristische Mischung aus Spontaneität, Komplexität und höchster Musikalität ein. Fans des hochgelobten ‘Screamnasium‘ werden von den eindringlichen cineastischen Momenten, sowie heftigen, riffbetonten Passagen begeistert sein. Das Werk unterstreicht die kreative Dynamik der Band und ihren Platz in der modernen progressiven Musik.

Ihr zehntes Studioalbum, Bird in Paradise, soll am 7. März 2025 veröffentlicht werden und enthält
den aktuellen Dancefloor-Füller „La Gracia“. „Als wir uns daran machten, das Album Bird in Paradise
aufzunehmen, wollten wir ein musikalisch reichhaltigeres Album als zuvor machen, das die Band instrumental wie nie zuvor in den Vordergrund stellt.“ „Musikalisch gesehen ist Bird in Paradise ein australisches,
Flamenco-, afrokubanisches Projekt. Wir haben uns an den Themen des zeitgenössischen Flamenco und der
kubanischen Musik orientiert und sie mit der Entschlossenheit und Härte der australischen Rockgeschichte
kombiniert.“

Cross Purposes ist das siebzehnte Studioalbum der englischen Rockband Black Sabbath, das ursprünglich
am 31. Januar 1994 veröffentlicht wurde. Das Album markierte die Rückkehr von Tony Martin als Leadsänger der Band nach dem zweiten Ausstieg von Ronnie James Dio.

Bloodywood ist eine Metal-Band aus Indien, die für ihren bahnbrechenden Sound bekannt ist, der indische
Folk-Instrumente nahtlos und mit verheerender Wirkung mit Metal verschmilzt. Erwarten Sie die perkussive Kraft der mächtigen Dhol, die melancholische Flöte, die einsaitige Tumbi und verschiedene andere
ungewöhnliche, aber unverkennbar charakteristische Klänge aus Indien. Die Kombination aus donnernden Hindi/Punjabi-Refrains und bedeutungsvollen, aber unerbittlichen Rap-Strophen zusammen mit der
ethnischen Instrumentierung macht Bloodywood zu einem wahrhaft einzigartigen Erlebnis.

Legendary composer, arranger, band leader and double bassist Israel “Cachao” López (1918-2008) is universally recognized as one of the most prolific and influential figures in the history of Cuban Music. He was a co-founder of the widely popular mambo style in the late 1930’s (along with his brother Orestes “Macho” López and Antonio Arcaño), and a primary exponent of the “descarga” movement of the 1950’s. The album Jam Session with Feeling, presented here, was one in a series of recorded “descargas”, and includes several legends of Cuban music, such as Alejandro “El Negro” Vivar, and Tata Güines.

Presenting the vinyl reissue of "French" by the legendary Buzzcocks, an electrifying live album capturing the band’s dynamic performance during their iconic Paris show in 1995. Known for their pioneering sound that fused punk’s raw energy with melodic sensibilities, Buzzcocks deliver a setlist packed with fan favorites and deep cuts, showcasing their impact on generations of punk and alternative rock. This album captures the intensity of their live presence, with Pete Shelley's unmistakable voice delivering heartfelt lyrics on love, desire, and disillusionment, supported by Steve Diggle’s powerful guitar riffs and the tight rhythm section of bassist Tony Barber and drummer Phil Barker. Buzzcocks have long been celebrated for their emotionally charged songwriting and high-energy performances, making "French" an essential recording that preserves their legacy. This vinyl edition invites both long-time fans and newcomers to experience the unfiltered sound of a Buzzcocks concert in its raw, analog glory.

Introducing "Endangered Species" by U.K. Subs, a seminal punk rock album that has stood the test of time since its original release in 1982. This reissue brings back the raw energy and rebellious spirit that defined an era and solidified U.K. Subs' place in punk rock history. "Endangered Species" features hard-hitting tracks that showcase the band's distinctive sound, with powerful guitar riffs, gritty vocals, and relentless drumming. U.K. Subs, formed in 1976, quickly became a cornerstone of the punk movement with their uncompromising style and politically charged lyrics. The lineup for this iconic album includes Charlie Harper on vocals, Nicky Garratt on guitar, Alvin Gibbs on bass, and Steve Roberts on drums, each member contributing their unique energy and talent. This vinyl reissue offers a pristine listening experience, meticulously remastered to capture the original intensity of the recording. Fans of the genre will appreciate classics like "Down on the Farm" and "Flesh Wound" which continue to resonate with their raw honesty and vigor.

Introducing "Endangered Species" by U.K. Subs, a seminal punk rock album that has stood the test of time since its original release in 1982. This reissue brings back the raw energy and rebellious spirit that defined an era and solidified U.K. Subs' place in punk rock history. "Endangered Species" features hard-hitting tracks that showcase the band's distinctive sound, with powerful guitar riffs, gritty vocals, and relentless drumming. U.K. Subs, formed in 1976, quickly became a cornerstone of the punk movement with their uncompromising style and politically charged lyrics. The lineup for this iconic album includes Charlie Harper on vocals, Nicky Garratt on guitar, Alvin Gibbs on bass, and Steve Roberts on drums, each member contributing their unique energy and talent. This vinyl reissue offers a pristine listening experience, meticulously remastered to capture the original intensity of the recording. Fans of the genre will appreciate classics like "Down on the Farm" and "Flesh Wound" which continue to resonate with their raw honesty and vigor.

Presenting the vinyl reissue of "French" by the legendary Buzzcocks, an electrifying live album capturing the band’s dynamic performance during their iconic Paris show in 1995. Known for their pioneering sound that fused punk’s raw energy with melodic sensibilities, Buzzcocks deliver a setlist packed with fan favorites and deep cuts, showcasing their impact on generations of punk and alternative rock. This album captures the intensity of their live presence, with Pete Shelley's unmistakable voice delivering heartfelt lyrics on love, desire, and disillusionment, supported by Steve Diggle’s powerful guitar riffs and the tight rhythm section of bassist Tony Barber and drummer Phil Barker. Buzzcocks have long been celebrated for their emotionally charged songwriting and high-energy performances, making "French" an essential recording that preserves their legacy. This vinyl edition invites both long-time fans and newcomers to experience the unfiltered sound of a Buzzcocks concert in its raw, analog glory.

Mr Bongo is proud to present 'The Original Sound of Mali', compiled by Vik Sohonie & David Buttle.
Malian music is arguably deeper, more sophisticated and lyrical than any other form of African music. Those of us deeply entranced by Malian culture, and, in particular, the immense hypnotic beauty of Malian music, have put together a
selection of songs from across the country.
Compiled by Vik Sohonie & Dave 'Mr Bongo' Buttle, the story of this release began in 2015 when Dave happened upon the Soul Bonanza blog. A treasure chest of rare finds from around the world! One mix in particular stood out and totally enthralled Dave - le monde à change: a tribute to mali 1970 - 1991. He
already knew of Malian legends such as the Rail Band, Salif Keita, & Les Ambassadeurs du Motel de Bamako, but this mix was something else! Deep & culled from the collections of some of the heaviest African music collectors in the world, legends like Vik Sohonie, Hidehito Morimoto, Philippe Noel, Gregoire
Villanova, and Rickard Masip. Dave immediately contacted Vik and a journey of discovery tracking down the rights-holders began. He also turned to the font of Malian music knowledge, Florent Mazzoleni. Florent has written the definitive book about Malian music - 'Musiques modernes et traditionnelles du Mali'. He
proposed some incredible tracks to include and provided the back bone of the sleeve notes and photos that are used in the album. No Malian album would be complete without a striking front cover photo, and ours is sourced from the late great Malian photographer Malick Sidibé.
On this album you will find well-known artists sitting next to rarer
discoveries. The Rail Band, who are one of the best known of all the big bands in Mali, gave us the stars Mory Kanté and Salif Keita. Les Amabassedeurs du Motel de Bamako were another big act that had Idrissa Soumaoro, Kanté Manfila, and for a while Salif Keita in their ranks. Sometimes Salif would play in both bands in one night, quite a feat considering the bands were fierce rivals. As an albino Salif has had to face considerable prejudice from society, focussing on his musical career to help overcome this.

A major discovery on the album has been Idrissa Soumaoro et L'Eclipse de L'Ija. L'Eclipse de l'Institut des Jeunes Aveugles was a Blind teenagers institute and their record was produced by the German association that took care of blind Malian teenagers in Bamako. It was never properly released commercially and was the first recordings by the legends of Malian music Idrissa Soumaoro, Amadou Bagayoko and Mariam Doumbia. Amadou & Mariam later got married and became household stars, including making an album with Manu Chao.
This album is a concerted global effort to showcase the most vital cornerstone of Malian culture in an attempt to preserve its reputation in the face of its current, grim reality. We hope our highlights of Mali's rich history of musical innovation will serve as a starting point for reclaiming an image tainted by unnecessary conflict. May peace and music return to Mali soon.
Dedicated to Malick Sidibé.

Now on album number seven , Metronomy has continued where many of their 2000s ‘cool’ band peers have dropped off along the way. Small World is a return to simple pleasures, nature, an embracing in part of more pared down, songwriterly sonics (some moments wouldn’t sound amiss on a Wilco release), all while asking broader existential questions: which feels at least somewhat rooted in the period of time during which it was made – 2020. For all that Mount seems to think he has made a comparatively sombre record, much of Small World still pulses with the zesty, tongue-in-cheek joie de vivre you’d expect of a Metronomy record.

So sure, things are different now Joe Mount is getting older and what’s on his mind is changing, but that doesn’t mark a change in quality for Metronomy. An immaculate set of tracks, Joe Mount’s ability as a songwriter and arranger shines through on Small World, evergreen. Metronomy might be growing up, but they’re not afraid to still have fun with it all. Through the tumultuous ebb and flow of the years, Metronomy continues to endure and make great pop music – and, really, that’s all that we could ask for.

Als die New Yorker IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT 2018 "Vile Luxury" veröffentlichten, setzten sie einen neuen Standard für die Möglichkeiten extremer Musik. Seitdem hat die dreiköpfige Band ihren unverkennbaren Sound, der gleichermaßen im eklektischen Black Metal, den klaustrophobischsten Vorstellungen von Free Jazz und dem Konzept von urbanen Stadtlandschaften als Schluchten des Grauens verwurzelt ist, weiterentwickelt und ihren Status mit Touren an der Seite von Bands wie Behemoth, Zeal & Ardor und Voivod zementiert. Jetzt kehren IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT mit einem neuen Blick auf "Vile Luxury" zurück, das von ihrem langjährigen Begleiter Colin Marston (Krallice, Gorguts) neu abgemischt und gemastert wurde, wodurch neue Dimensionen dieses Werks - das oft als IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANTs zugänglichstes Werk gilt - mit seinen monolithischen Absichten zum Vorschein kommen.