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One of melodic techno’s biggest breakout stars, Massano steps up for his Drumcode EP debut. The emerging DJ/producer from Liverpool already gave us a taste of his elite studio capabilities via the fantastic ‘Betrayal’, his contribution to last year’s Drumcode A-Sides Vol.12 release – one of the highlights of the compilation. Massano’s sound hits with a fantastic punch, characterised by super charged sound design and powerful melodic riffs with key releases on Afterlife and his own Simulate to date. His ‘Telepathic’ EP reinforces why we’re rightly so excited to have him on Drumcode. The title track is a juicy psy-laced stomper, propelled by a menacing low-end vocal that adds plenty of atmosphere to the cut. ‘Destructure’ is formed around rattling percussive effects, before euphoric melodic layers build in intensity throughout the second half. When the two elements coalesce, we’re treated to a track with immense peak-time power, that never loses its unique edge. ‘The Method’ is a melodic ace, shifting between laser-kisser dynamism and full throttle bass-driven energy.

Reptile Mob is back with a third part of its superb on going compilation series and this one looks at different aspects of the garage house sound. Side a-begins with some fresh four-four grooves no least the opener from the legend that is Perception with Andy G and their dubby 'Let's Go'. Conspiracy Dubz keeps it bumping with the old school feels of 'Musical Rush' and on the B-side it is more of a 2-step sound that emerges with jazzy melodies and female vocals. Groovy D's 'Another Chance' is the real standout for us with its classic vocal sample worked into a nice kinetic rhythm.

The excellent Minimal Wave serves up a long-awaited LP here that features unreleased treasures from the influential UK duo, Vicious Pink, who first met at The Warehouse night-club in Leeds in the late 1970s and went on to reshape synth-pop. They notoriously lent their backing vocals to friends Soft Cell but went on to have success as a duo with avant-garde singles that defied norms and climbed the UK dance charts between 1982 and 1986. Now, Unexpected offers glimpses into their creative process and is packed with pop experiments recorded on the fly, some of which are with Dave Ball of Soft Vell/Grid fame. Limited to 999 copies on Coke bottle clear vinyl, this release is a true collector's gem that includes an exclusive postcard.

Diggers Society is an underground electronic music label based in Barcelona. This debut release encapsulates the label's musical philosophy, featuring two tracks produced by legends Francesco Farfa and Miki (in collaboration with Niki IL B and Andrea Melly), and two tracks produced by talented artists from the new generation such as Luca Piermattei and Lucio. The result is a complete EP, featuring 4 different dancefloor-oriented productions, each one for a different moment of the night.
Artwork by @designattitude_graphic

Airual002 proudly presents the "Devotion" EP, a mesmerizing journey into the realms of dub techno with great passion and devotion to tradition but approaching it `also with modern studio strategies and equipment.Mario Lauriano, a Naples native now based in Berlin, showcases his prowess in crafting meticulously designed dub techno with "Devotion."

The title track is a captivating fusion of pulsating rhythms and ethereal melodies, transporting listeners to another dimension. XDB's remix of "Devotion" amplifies the energy while retaining the essence of the original track, making it perfect for obscure dancefloors.

On the flip side, Lauriano's "Patiently Waiting" offers a mesmerizing exploration of broken atmospheric techno, complemented by a fresh and house remix from the legendary Samuel L Session.

"Devotion" EP is a testament to Airual002's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electronic music while staying true to its roots. With its exquisite blend of elegant dub techno and atmospheric sounds, this release is set to leave a lasting impression on listeners.

Chapter Two/No Sleep is the successor of "A New Chapter" - the second Various Artists EP. This time onboard: Audio Units, talented producer duo from India, anonymous stunning techno Linear System and Tangram, a young techno DJ, Producer and Mastering Engineer based in Cologne. This EP is recommended to play on loud sound systems.

Dieses Album gilt als das brutalste, technischste, aggressivste und schnellste unter den klassischen PRESTIGE- Alben.
Es ist die musikalische Antwort der Band auf die damals aufkommenden Musiktrends, insbesondere auf die Grunge-Szene. Nach ihrer Auszeit im Herbst 1992 gelang es ihnen, im Gegensatz zu vielen bedeutenden Thrash-Bands dieser Ära, keine unbeholfenen, vom Grunge beeinflussten Alben zu produzieren.
Dieses konsequente Festhalten an ihrem einzigartigen Stil zeichnet PRESTIGE aus.
Für die Produktion dieses Albums wählte die Band ein neues Studio und einen anderen Produzenten als für ihre früheren Veröffentlichungen. Sie haben sowohl den Songs, als auch der Produktion große Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt und mehr Zeit im Studio verbracht als je zuvor, insgesamt etwa drei Wochen.
Wer auf kompromisslosen Highspeed-Thrash mit Attitüde steht, für den ist dieses Album ein Muss.

Dieses Album gilt als das brutalste, technischste, aggressivste und schnellste unter den klassischen PRESTIGE- Alben.
Es ist die musikalische Antwort der Band auf die damals aufkommenden Musiktrends, insbesondere auf die Grunge-Szene. Nach ihrer Auszeit im Herbst 1992 gelang es ihnen, im Gegensatz zu vielen bedeutenden Thrash-Bands dieser Ära, keine unbeholfenen, vom Grunge beeinflussten Alben zu produzieren.
Dieses konsequente Festhalten an ihrem einzigartigen Stil zeichnet PRESTIGE aus.
Für die Produktion dieses Albums wählte die Band ein neues Studio und einen anderen Produzenten als für ihre früheren Veröffentlichungen. Sie haben sowohl den Songs, als auch der Produktion große Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt und mehr Zeit im Studio verbracht als je zuvor, insgesamt etwa drei Wochen.
Wer auf kompromisslosen Highspeed-Thrash mit Attitüde steht, für den ist dieses Album ein Muss.

Good news! Pacific Rhythm returns with its first long player of 2024 on July 5th from ZG, a collaborative effort from Zansika Lachhani and Grant (aka Tony from Frank & Tony). The LP titled “Out Of The Unknown” is the followup to the duo’s first incredibly well-received self-titled LP that landed back on NYC-based label Scissor & Thread in 2022.
Over the course of 6 tracks, ZG takes their sound a step further, building rich, deep, and complex rhythm patterns paired with thoughtful and unexpected musical arrangements. The voice of Zansika ties it all together to create a unique and singular vision of modern deep dance music informed by the duo’s life-long musical journey.

“Out Of The Unknown” effortlessly flows through dramatic atmospheric downtempo landscapes, MPC-style beatmaking, late 90’s deep house, and beautifully builds a bridge between UK and US-inspired sounds. Enjoy the trip! It’s certainly a beautiful one.

UV & Nenor have been on a hot streak of late with great outings on the likes of the Fossils label and now they keep it up with a red hot new drop on the brand new Massa label. This tidy 7" packs a punch with two jams that will work the floor. The first is a slow motion but irresistible dub-disco fusion with squelchy bass and nice colourful, warm, gooey chords with vocals from Ranking Levy. On the flip is 'Tookey', a futuristic electro vocoder jam that comes to life with vivid synths circling round the mix and an unusual sense of swing. From laid back session at home to steamy club use, both of these are useful jams.

Next Polyamore Recs release comes from Costariva, a really interesting project from Bologna (ITA).

‘Pantera’ intended to transport the listener into the midst of the vibrant paths of a dancing journey to the sound of Italo-disco rhythms, bringing body and soul back to the belle époque of Italian disco music.

“Miscela originale” is a blend of Catchy bass lines and shimmering melodies, amalgamated by the colours of strings and synths, the track is the result of the artistic blend between the music produced and arranged by Federico Franciosi and the words skilfully framed with an ironic and boisterous vein by Giorgio Michele Longo (aka Giargo) and Francesco Zaniboni (aka Dj Rou).

“Rivisitazione adriatica” has a catchy, sexy groove and a horns part that let you go on summer nights.

“Sam Ruffillo Rework” is a dancefloor ready track for your best peak-time in the next summer season festival.

‘Pantera’ is also intended as a veiled homage to one of the greatest and most underrated innovators on the Italian and international music scene, Pino D’Angiò.

With its infectious rhythm and playful spirit, ‘Pantera’ promises to make listeners dance and smile, instilling a little healthy and amused nostalgia in all travellers of the night.

Repress!

HERBERT HUNTER will be forever worshiped by the UK Northern Soul scene for his anthemic 45 'I Was Born to Love You', recorded in the home of country music, Nashville, in 1967. Sometimes things are just meant to be and they collide in perfect harmony. 'I Was Born To Love You' is a case in point. The perfect lyric - 'I Was Born To Love You, You Were Born To Tear My Heart Apart' - the perfect beat, and perfect timing as it crashed onto these shores in the summer of '76 when Northern Soul was at its zenith and Wigan Casino owned the All-Nighter scene! But, Hunter is no one-trick pony, as his list of collectable 45s bears testament, not least 'Happy Go Lucky', also on Spar. Hunter was part of Ted Jarrett's roster of artists and, under Jarrett's stewardship recorded a string of cover versions under the pseudonym Leroy Jones for the neighbouring budget label 'Hit'. He learnt much of his trade from established artists and label mates such as Gene Allison who he toured with as minder and nursemaid, due to Allison's drink problem. Often, when they arrived a venue, Allison was too drunk to perform and Hunter would step in for him.
For our B-side we've chosen a lesser known, but no less wonderful and gritty Northern Soul dancer 'I Know The Feelin'' by THE JADES. Currently very much in demand with a mint copy selling earlier this year for over $900. We know little about The Jades who recorded this incredible slab of up-tempo soul for Ted Jarrett's Poncello label in 1964 featuring, of course, Herbert Hunter's booming lead vocal.
Many thanks to Fred James for making this superb double-sider possible.

Simple Symmetry are back on Calypso for a second offering but this time around it's in a different format. They've enlisted remixes of tracks from their Sorry We Did Something Wrong album which first landed back in 2021 as a self-released project, which won over many fans with a sound that went way beyond the club and now gets repurposed for the dancefloor with extended and club versions. The Horsemen Of Housing & Commercial Services rework of 'Che Che' is a dark disco classic, Smaghhe & Cross rework 'Rounded With A Sleep' into something taught and trippy and INigo Vontier layers in plenty of darkness, grit and grime to his take on 'I Must Not Fear'.

Hard-rocking Brooklyn trio Sir Lord Baltimore’s highly sought-after debut album is a legendary precursor of the heavy metal genre, a 1971 Creem review of the disc perhaps the first to ever use the term. The group benefited from the songwriting and production team of Mike Appel and Jim Cretecos, Appel the future manger of Bruce Springsteen and Cretecos already heady from success with The Partridge Family; recorded at Vantone Studios in New Jersey, it
was mixed to fine effect by Eddie Kramer at Electric Ladyland, fresh from his work with Jimi Hendrix. Guitarist Louis Dambra co- arranged the material with Appel and Cretecos; he had earlier played in garage band The Koala as Louis Caine, and here his screeching guitar
is a major draw, backed by plodding bass from Gary Justin, as front man John Garner shrieks his vocals while pounding furious drumbeats. Aside from a tough cover of Ray Charles’ “I Got A Woman” and a track inspired by Yeats’ poem “Lake Isle Of Innersfree,” the album features heavily-stoned acid rock originals, delivered the Sir Lord Baltimore way.

* Another portion of dub plate pressure from Partial Records from UK dub stalwart’s Centry and Manasseh.
* `Foot Pedal Dub’ and `Basement Dub’ are both in-demand previously unreleased raw instrumental dub tunes from 1991 which gained sound system play from the likes of Aba Shanti.
* `Old King Cole’ from 1992 is a blazing horns instrumental followed by the dub cut `Old King Dub’, both of which appear here on vinyl for the first time.
* 300 copies only

Bugger Off! picked up where its predecessor left off, and rampaged on from there. Covers of Zappa’s “Willy the Pimp” and the Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” might have seemed a little obvious, but both are battered down with such a glorious lack of finesse that it’s impossible to object — anybody familiar with, respectively, Juicy Lucy and the
Hammersmith Gorillas’ versions of the same songs will come in with at least a vague idea of what to expect, but that’s about it.

“Hoochie Coochie Man” is even more disheveled, and when John Peel’s liner notes reminisce on the group’s insistence on recording live, you can tell he’s not necessarily looking back with any fondness.
On one occasion, he suggested they do a little overdubbing.

The band’s response to his words would become the album’s title. Including “Mama Keep Your Big Mouth Shut” as bonus track taken from the 1972 John Peel Session.

Triple edition, packaged in thick PVC cover with a foldable double sided poster and download card.

Celebrating the 20 year anniversary of highly revered Jazz collective, Build An Ark from Los Angeles, California. Formed in 2003 and releasing albums between 2004 and 2010, the Carlos Niño co-ordinated project included contributions from luminaries such Phil Ranelin, Big Black, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, Adam Rudolph, Derf Reklaw (R.I.P.), Dexter Story, Dwight Trible, Gaby Hernandez, Mia Doi Todd, Munyungo Jackson, Nate Morgan (R.I.P.) Waberi Jordan, Avotcja & many more.

This set was compiled by band leader Carlos Niño with recordings from 2001 to 2008 that have previously been released on Kindred Spirits.

Gilles Peterson says "It's a beauty!"

Introducing "Azerbaijani Gitara vol. 2" by Rəhman Məmmədli, the eagerly awaited sequel to Bongo Joe’s acclaimed debut featuring Rüstəm Quliyev. Born from the vibrant streets of Baku, Azerbaijani gitara culture has evolved into a mesmerizing fusion of indigenous traditions and global influences. From the oil boom era to Soviet rule, musicians have embraced the electric guitar as a symbol of cultural expression.

Rəhman Məmmədli, a legend in his own right, revolutionized the sound with his innovative techniques and impassioned performances. Drawing inspiration from mugham music, Məmmədli's compositions resonate with soul-stirring melodies and electrifying solos.

Join us as we honor the pioneers of Azerbaijani gitara culture while celebrating the continued evolution of this rich musical tradition. "Azerbaijani Gitara vol. 2" promise to captivate listeners with its depth, diversity, and unbridled passion, inviting you on a journey through the heart and soul of Azerbaijan's musical heritage.

Fresh from their US tour supporting Black Sabbath, Brooklyn-based heavy metal trio Sir Lord Baltimore expanded to a quartet for the recording of their self-titled sophomore album, released by Mercury in late 1971. The new addition was uitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Joey Dambra, brother of guitarist co-founder, Louis Dambra, adding a dual-guitar element to their hefty sound. The album begins with the epic “Man From Manhattan,” a symbolic allegory of a resurrected Christian icon in a new setting; in contrast, “Where Are We Going” captured the rawness of the group in live glory and “Chicago Lives” a twin-guitar attack. Somehow, the band did not survive long after its release, though Joey later recorded with John Lennon; this reissue spins at 45 RPM for maximum fidelity.

The genesis of "Nosthaigia" is as fascinating as the music itself. Onra spent several years living in Thailand, immersing himself in the vibrant culture and scouring local record shops for rare gems. The result is a collection of Thai songs from various genres, all sourced on 7 inches. These short instrumentals serve as time capsules, transporting listeners to a bygone era filled with nostalgia and longing.

Produced entirely on the MPC1000 in 2017 and revisited in 2020, "Nosthaigia" is a testament to the power of serendipity and artistic evolution. What began as a casual exploration of unfamiliar musical territory blossomed into a deeply personal and meaningful project for Onra. Amidst a series of unfortunate life events, he found solace and inspiration in the beats he had crafted years prior.

Each track on "Nosthaigia" is a reflection of his journey, a sonic expression of longing and introspection. Onra describes the process of creating the album as a cathartic release, a way of letting go of old memories and embracing the present.

Despite the somber undertones, there is a quiet beauty to "Nosthaigia" that is impossible to ignore. Onra's vintage production skills breathe life into each track, infusing them with warmth and depth. From the haunting melodies of "Until The End" to the hypnotic rhythms of "Close Your Eyes And Remember" every moment feels poignant.

Onra's decision to "remove all the bangers" from the album speaks volumes about his artistic integrity and dedication to authenticity. "Nosthaigia" is not about flashy beats or catchy hooks; it's about raw emotion and genuine expression. It's a reminder that music has the power to heal, to uplift, and to connect us to something greater than ourselves.

In the end, "Nosthaigia" is more than just an album; it's a testament to the human experience. It's a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is beauty to be found, if only we're willing to listen.

* A solid double A-sider from Partial Records with Everton Chambers and S'Kaya sharing the bill.
* On the A-side we have Everton Chambers, a long-time Jamaican singer whose work stretches back the 80's where he cut several memorable digital thrillers. Here he does his thing over a cut Paul Fox's `Wolf in Sheep Clothing' rhythm.
* Flip to the AA side for bass-rumbling boom shot from S'Kaya, a young promising vocalist/deejay who already has two previous releases for Partial under his belt (`Police' and `Eyes of Jah'). On this track he ride the same rhythm as Jah Marnyah's `Nah Partial' which was released last year.
* Both tunes come with dub-wise versions mixed by Dougie Wardrop.

Post Traumatic is the deeply personal solo album by Linkin Park singer Mike Shinoda, released in the months months after the death of Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington was recorded. Originally released in June 2018, the 16-track album included the 3 songs from the Post Traumatic EP released released earlier this year, as well as the singles "Crossing A Line" and "Make It Up As I Go". This 18-track deluxe vinyl re-release of Post Traumatic includes two bonus songs: "Prove You Wrong" and "What The Words Meant"; tracks that were originally released as a limited edition 10" single and added to the digital album. Despite the title, Post Traumatic - which features collaborations with K.Flay, blackbear, Machine Gun Kelly, Deftones, Chino Moreno and grandson - is an album about healing. healing. The songs deal with Shinoda's experiences with loss and yet, thanks to their honesty and universally applicable thanks to their honesty and heart. universally applicable.

a a1 - Place To Start [Mike Shinoda]
[b] a2 - Over Again [Mike Shinoda]
[c] a3 - Watching As I Fall [Mike Shinoda]
[d] a4 - Nothing Makes Sense Anymore [Mike Shinoda]
[e] b1 - About You (feat. blackbear) [Mike Shinoda]
[f] b2 - Brooding (Instrumental) [Mike Shinoda]
[g] b3 - Promises I Can't Keep [Mike Shinoda]
[h] b4 - Crossing A Line [Mike Shinoda]
[i] c1 - Hold It Together [Mike Shinoda]
[j] c2 - Ghosts [Mike Shinoda]
[k] c3 - Make It Up As I Go (feat. K.Flay) [Mike Shinoda]
[l] c4 - Lift Off (feat. Chino Moreno and Machine Gun Kelly) [Mike Shinoda]
[m] d1 - I.O.U. [Mike Shinoda]
[n] d2 - Running From My Shadow (feat. grandson) [Mike Shinoda]
[o] d3 - World's On Fire [Mike Shinoda]
[p] d4 - Can't Hear You Now [Mike Shinoda]
[q] d5 - Prove You Wrong [Mike Shinoda]
[r] d6 - What The Words Meant [Mike Shinoda]

Post Traumatic is the deeply personal solo album by Linkin Park singer Mike Shinoda, released in the months months after the death of Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington was recorded. Originally released in June 2018, the 16-track album included the 3 songs from the Post Traumatic EP released released earlier this year, as well as the singles "Crossing A Line" and "Make It Up As I Go". This 18-track deluxe vinyl re-release of Post Traumatic includes two bonus songs: "Prove You Wrong" and "What The Words Meant"; tracks that were originally released as a limited edition 10" single and added to the digital album. Despite the title, Post Traumatic - which features collaborations with K.Flay, blackbear, Machine Gun Kelly, Deftones, Chino Moreno and grandson - is an album about healing. healing. The songs deal with Shinoda's experiences with loss and yet, thanks to their honesty and universally applicable thanks to their honesty and heart. universally applicable.

a a1 - Place To Start Mike Shinoda
[b] a2 - Over Again [Mike Shinoda]
[c] a3 - Watching As I Fall [Mike Shinoda]
[d] a4 - Nothing Makes Sense Anymore [Mike Shinoda]
[e] b1 - About You (feat. blackbear) [Mike Shinoda]
[f] b2 - Brooding (Instrumental) [Mike Shinoda]
[g] b3 - Promises I Can't Keep [Mike Shinoda]
[h] b4 - Crossing A Line [Mike Shinoda]
[i] c1 - Hold It Together [Mike Shinoda]
[j] c2 - Ghosts [Mike Shinoda]
[k] c3 - Make It Up As I Go (feat. K.Flay) [Mike Shinoda]
[l] c4 - Lift Off (feat. Chino Moreno and Machine Gun Kelly) [Mike Shinoda]
[m] d1 - I.O.U. [Mike Shinoda]
[n] d2 - Running From My Shadow (feat. grandson) [Mike Shinoda]
[o] d3 - World's On Fire [Mike Shinoda]
[p] d4 - Can't Hear You Now [Mike Shinoda]
[q] d5 - Prove You Wrong [Mike Shinoda]
[r] d6 - What The Words Meant [Mike Shinoda]

Post Traumatic is the deeply personal solo album by Linkin Park singer Mike Shinoda, released in the months months after the death of Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington was recorded. Originally released in June 2018, the 16-track album included the 3 songs from the Post Traumatic EP released released earlier this year, as well as the singles "Crossing A Line" and "Make It Up As I Go". This 18-track deluxe vinyl re-release of Post Traumatic includes two bonus songs: "Prove You Wrong" and "What The Words Meant"; tracks that were originally released as a limited edition 10" single and added to the digital album. Despite the title, Post Traumatic - which features collaborations with K.Flay, blackbear, Machine Gun Kelly, Deftones, Chino Moreno and grandson - is an album about healing. healing. The songs deal with Shinoda's experiences with loss and yet, thanks to their honesty and universally applicable thanks to their honesty and heart. universally applicable.

The various artists alternative sound concept (UDE001) is the first reference, presenting a variety of styles and sounds which represents a sound personality from a listening point.

These artists residing in Malaga, Madrid and Barcelona have participated with the first project to give the presentation.

-Caradusanto, multidisciplinary artist includes “Semillas” made with analog modular and ramdomized sequences.

-Dark Vektor, a pioneer in the electro scene, surprises us with “En Mitg De L’Espai”, sounds that are unusual for him and keeping the same relationship with his clarity when hearing it, sung with his native linguistics and message inside.

-Intervalo, shows us a B side where the broken rhythm predominates, its harmonic essence and melody continues to be its identification, we talk about “Solitude”.

-Guillermo Garate, innovates with electro sounds achieving the same thing, another B side of this artist “Larga”.

-Tio solo by habit in its production slides on synthesizers and analog drum machines, thus achieving “Dark Fluid” an accelerated drum & Bass rhythm differentiated from it with atmospheric and acid pads.

2025 Repress

Operation Sole like the summer, hopefully, imminent; “Operazione Sole” like the 1967 song by Peppino Di Capri, considered, perhaps wrongly, the first ska in Italy, but certainly the first to talk about Jamaica and upbeat rhythms.
The record you have in your hand is intended to be a testimony to how much the sounds born in Kingston between the '60s and '70s had a significant influence on local pop.
With the first explosion of reggae in England between 1968 and 1970, as well as with the rise of Bob Marley to a worldwide cult phenomenon, parallel to the all-English phenomenon of Two Tone and the ska revival, Italy, always attracted by the new trends not only English, he certainly couldn't stay on the sidelines.
Therefore these innovative and unknown upbeat sounds, derived from the blues of the 1950s and mixed with a Caribbean sauce, have also taken hold in the Bel Paese.
It began as early as 1959 with the song “Nessuno” by Mina, considered to all intents and purposes a Jamaican shuffle, to arrive in a few years at blue-beat (I4 di Lucca, Claudio Casavecchi) and ska (Margherita, Peppino Di Capri , Silvano Silvi, Renzo and Virginia) and be exposed to the first reggae (for example Jo Fedeli and his Italian version of “Israelites” by Desmond Dekker). Thus, we quickly reach the end of the decade of the economic boom and the culture, styles, references change: everything becomes more busy (on a cultural, artistic and political level).
After a stalemate phase that lasted more than five years, Bob Marley's reggae (considered a sort of new Messiah) conquers the planet, including Italy: the producers and artists, even at a high level, for a few years do not remain at all indifferent to this novelty and decide to introduce the "upbeat", primarily reggae, into the various pop repertoires: well-known names such as
Loredana Bertè, Mario Lavezzi, Rino Gaetano, Ivano Fossati, Ilona Staller, Adriano Celentano, Edoardo Bennato throw themselves headlong into new sonic adventures, in a pioneering way, but often with excellent results.
The "Operazione Sole" collection wants to take the credit, instead, of proposing and discovering lesser-known artists (with the exception of Gino Santercole, former associate and relative of Il Molleggiato), often real meteors in the Italian musical panorama, who have tried to achieve (or achieve again) success by adapting the pop that was so popular in those years to the new black sounds prevailing in the West.
We are in the early 80s and we range from the most classic reggae, to Italo-disco contaminated by dub up to the true Neapolitan style which, on more than one occasion, in its being endemically "black" and full of groove, has wrung out the watch out for agreements made in Kingston and London.
“Operation Sun”: a pleasant philological work, but surrounded by an equally pleasant aura of disengagement.

The adventurous singer, guitarist and music journalist Mick Farren launched his solo career after being sacked by his fellow Deviants, the protopunk band he fronted from 1967-69. Suffering from depression and other mental health issues, Farren teamed up with an all-star cast, including members of Quartermass and ex-Tyrannosauros Rex honcho Steve Peregrin Took for debut opus Mona The Carnivorous Circus, mixing hard rock, spoken word, spaced-out interludes, radio cut-ups and garage rock, rendering a work as compelling as it is hard to classify. Strange, delightful and a favourite of Julian Cope, this is an aural journey to savour.

The roots of 80s English psychedelic freak band The Tryp lie in a hoax perpetuated by Steve Lines’ indie mag Mardenbeat, based in the town of Calne in the Marden Delta, which reviewed a gig by a non-existent band; former JP Sunshine main man Rod Goodway and partner Christine Cotter then gave flesh to the beast with Lines and Paul Ricketts of Unhinged mag, cutting My Brain Collapsed! as an exploration of mushroom-fuelled mental instability. First issued on cassette label Mardentapes and later by Acid Tapes (just as Lines took over from Alan Duffy), this edition is the first on vinyl-A Must Have FOR ALL Tryppers!

‘SUNNY DAY’ PRO UNO presented by THE REGIME

Smooth loved-up and sun kissed soul, melting over jazzy road-trip and summertime vinyl dust. The Regime’s sophomore release is strictly vintage, playfully psychedelic, smothered in funky soul, and irrefutably ‘on the One’.

Spawned from 70s soul, jazz and funk, combined with the plethora of free time the covid pandemic demanded, THE REGIME’s jazzy-soul outfit PRO UNO rose from the ashes, dousing the public with a whiff of the good ol’ days, where music was real, authentic and pure. Their 70s aesthetic and full in house production combines sounds reminiscent of Al Green, Steely Dan, Bill Withers and America, to create a state of total nostalgia and peace love n harmony vibes. This iteration of the Funk Collective THE REGIME is their most exciting and tasteful project yet. Expanding on the original hip hop, funk niche, ‘SUNNY DAY’ in undeniably one for all, and indeed all for one.

Released via Columbia Records - Second single from former Little Mix vocalist, Perrie Edwards. Taken from her debut solo album, due to be released later this year. Extensive promo & marketing activity across all media outlets.

From the deep confines of the universe, we receive emissions of HC Records’ 21st release - Those Dark Whims by UHF, the production duo and Gladio Operations label heads José Castillo and David Aragón. An exciting digital LP from which a selection of tracks have been extracted for vinyl along with remixes by two label regulars, Estrato Aurora and The Lost Boys.

Skynet Was Shy opens both the LP and the vinyl, a hypnotic starting point in which the most vibrant and crystalline electro fuses with acid sequences to generate a state of pure trance, complimented and driven by spiralling sequences and mantra-like vocals. The second track on the LP and A2 on the vinyl is The Lost Boys' remix of Skynet Was Shy. A rough and sharp reinterpretation where the use of 303 sequences continues but focuses on more of a physical than a mental dance.

Hanging Baskets reactivates the state of infinite mental suspension that underlies this powerful and bold composition with deft and minimalistic use of elements: sharp broken rhythms, a dense melodic environment but with occasional moments of pure light and a new vocal message that ignites in our minds.

The B-side kicks off with Estrato Aurora's remix of Day Dream, which as usual in the work of the acclaimed Valencian producer, extends the original version to 8 minutes, giving it an unusual emotionality created by an amalgam of sound textures that interweave multiple pads, mutant melodies and pulsating percussion. Closing the vinyl, UHF's machines join forces with the lyrics of another electro heavyweight in Protestas En Las Redes Feat. Dark Vektor, a combative discourse in which the powerful and robotic vocal message of the Terrassan producer ascend alongside the futuristic melodies, extra-dimensional violins, spatial arpeggios, and metallic rhythms of the Madrid duo.

"Androids may not yet dream of electric sheep, but maybe computers do sing sad songs."

In 2013, Tzoukmanis released ‘Hope Is The Sister Of Despair’, issued here for the first time on vinyl with 4 previously unreleased tracks.
The album was made following the end of a relationship and the happy/sad feeling is everywhere in this music. Sequences twinkle and nag, soft pads pour balm on tired ears and when drums do appear they provide an intimate framework rather than a call to the dance floor. The album taps into a rich vein of sequencer romanticism, from Tangerine Dream-obsessed-‘Berlin School’ daydreamers to the whole nebula of music inspired by Warp’s Artificial Intelligence series. It also looks forward, prefiguring the return today, in troubled times, to the comforting inner space of ‘90s-worshipping ambient techno.

The German word ‘weltschmerz’, roughly translating as ‘world sadness’, fits this music well. The melancholy it inspires feels collective, almost heartening. Sorrow might be said to infuse the technology’s basic building blocks – Leibniz’s binary ‘one’ bereft of its ‘zero’, its presence twinned with absence. But there is hope, too, in the network of actions and decisions that have been fashioned here into melody and rhythm.

* Brand new outing from dub producer I David who takes us on a dubby journey on the Orient Express into Istanbul and further into Anatolia.
* The track titles are mostly belly-dancing related which gives to clue to the content.
* Featuring an instrumental and three dub excursions of the same tune.
* For fans of The Rootsman, Muslimgauze etc.
* 300 copies only

Among the most famous husband-and-wife soul duos of all time, Ike & Tina Turner scored an incredible array of hits in the 1960s and 70s, before Tina finally exited the partnership. The debut LP on the Pompeii label, So Fine dates from 1968, a couple of years after a support slot on a Rolling Stones tour boosted their profiles; in addition to a remake of early hit ‘A Fool In Love,’ there’s an awesome take of Johnny Otis’ ‘So Fine’ and a competent rendition of ‘Shake A Tail Feather.’ Tina is fully in her element, the Ikettes keep up the harmonic pressure, and producer Ike handles the rest. Recommended listening for all soul fans!

Much appreciated reissue of R.N.A. Organism’s ‘R.N.A.O Meets P.O.P.O’ (first released by legendary Osaka label Vanity Records in 1980). A key document of the late ’70s experimental music scene in Kansai, Japan, R.N.A.O Meets P.O.P.O is a hallucinatory trip of dubby bass, churning guitars, sputtering rhythm boxes, twisted vocals and unidentifiable sound effects.

Carefully remastered by Stephan Mathieu from the original tapes, cut by Josh Bonati, pressed by RTI, and housed in a hefty Stoughton tip-on sleeve. This oedition also includes an expanded insert with an illuminating essay by R.N.A. Organism producer Kaoru Sato.

Sometimes music is supposed to feel weird and indescribable. It’s the moments of clarity within the dense, sonic mess that often feels the most satisfying. That’s the space that Earth Tongue occupy. At times, their songs are shrill and disorientating, other times their reverb-washed textures and instantly- familiar hooks can wrap you in a warm, loving embrace. The one consistent thread through their music, however, is the thick and all encompassing fuzz. Guitarist Gussie Larkin has become a master of the fuzz-smothered riff, and along with Ezra Simons’ off-kilter drumming, they’ve been sending punters into transcendental states since they began gigging in their home town of Wellington, New Zealand in 2016. Floating Being will be released this June 21st. The album was pieced together throughout their travels of Australia and Europe, with the finishing touches being added in their hometown. The album contains songs they’ve been playing live for the past year, and it captures the raw, primitive energy that exists within their live performance. Earth Tongue embrace the imperfections in their playing and recording - drawing influence from early 70s psych and prog rock. The last thing they wanted was to create a shiny, over-produced record - with that in mind, they recorded the drums to an old 8-track Tascam reel-to-reel in a friend’s garage in Melbourne. The result is a punchy, raw and fuzzy journey into psych-rock with songs that weave between melodic and jarring. Unexpected twists and turns leave the listener in a disorientated yet satisfying haze.

Belgian progressive post-hardcore quintet Hippotraktor have announced their second full-length album, `Stasis'. The combination of impressionistic songwriting ambitions and powerful, narrative-charged lyrics proved to be a perfest match for the band so far. Operating at the intersection of Meshuggah's relentless, polyrhythmic pounding and Gojira's colossal atmospheric weight, Hippotraktor have expanded upon their already distinctive sound by introducing De Graef's vocals that bring with them an intriguing new dedication to musical storytelling. "Stasis tells a story of human nature," explains lead vocalist Stefan De Graef about the album's narrative. "As the protagonist enters a new world in which he is confronted with other humans for the first time, he acquaints himself with their customs and ethics, discovering generosity and empathy, but also greed, jealousy and hatred." Taken from the Greek for `stoppage', `Stasis' sees Hippotraktor doing anything but stagnating. Hippotraktor chart intricate melodies and sprawling riffs as a map showing how humanity has come of age in a chaotic world of its own making. Deftly unveiling tender truths whilst tenderly shrouding the violent majesty at its core, `Stasis' is a fitting soundtrack to life in a world that's hurtling towards a stand still.

First ever reissue of this excellent self-titled South African jazz album by Spirits Rejoice.
Check out tracks like 'Woza Uzo Kudanisa Nathi' or 'Papa's Funk' !

The 1970s is regarded as a period of experimentation, boundary-breaking and hybridization in modern music and this spirit certainly informed the mushrooming of ideas that occurred in South African jazz during this time. In the shadow of more commercial township jive and soul, South African jazz evolved on the fringe, nurtured by passionate and enterprising independent producers who courted the interest of the mainstream with enchanting concoctions of jazz with folk, rock, soul and funk.

With a lineup hailing from far flung regions of South Africa, the mercurial sound of Spirits Rejoice and its willingness to weave a patchwork of different influences into its recordings is not hard to account for. More difficult to reconcile is that the band didn’t manage to level up to the status enjoyed by its peers in larger music markets abroad. Nevertheless, Spirits Rejoice has maintained its revered status in the collective memory of South African jazz for over four decades and their recorded artifacts return in the 2020s with the group’s vitality and energy undiminished.