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Repress!

You know it's going to be a heavy record when DJ / collector Mr Thing asks you to keep a look out for a copy on your next digging trip to Brazil. Add on top of that, being sampled by Madlib on the track 'Curls’ on his Madvillain album!

Taken from Waldir Calmon's 'Waldir Calmon E Seus Multisons' album on Copacabana (1970), from looking at this unassuming record cover featuring a middle-aged man sporting an impressive pair of glasses you wouldn't expect it to become the fabric to one of the songs from the iconic 'Madvillain’ album. But… like many things in life, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. 'Airport Love Theme’, like its name suggests, falls into full-on lounge territory. It’s feel-good music made to be the soundtrack for a utopian world that never really was. Yet behind the silky-smooth groove is an addictive earworm waiting to be heard.

'Afro Son' taken from the same album, pushes things in a different direction towards a sound that is more firmly rooted in the Brazilian tradition. This quirky 60's-breakbeat-funk groove is reminiscent of French artist Jean Jacques Perrey's 'E.V.A.', also from 1970, in its melody and backbeat, where the Moog synthesizer of Perrey is replaced with a more orchestrated sound by Calmon. This track is magical, cinematic and breakbeat-laden with a hidden unknown exoticism.

Waldir Calmon had an active career in music working from the '50s right up until his passing in 1982. His career started early, forming his first ensemble at the age of fourteen, originally working in bands in nightclubs and writing jingles. He progressed in the early '50s to a long-running career working in television. In addition to his television work, he had success with his recording vocation, mixing in the same musical circles as greats such as Tom Jobi, João Gilberto and Doris Monteiro.

• Next installment in BRAZIL 45 Series.
• Sampled by Madlib on the track ‘Curls’ from his ‘Madvillain’ album.
• Quirky, cinematic, breakbeat-laden exoticism.

‘BRAT’, Charli XCX’s sixth studio album, will be released on Friday 7th June and is available for pre-order now on Vinyl and CD with the full tracklist available.

‘BRAT’ is the eagerly awaited follow up to 2022’s ‘CRASH’, which reached number 1 on the UK’s official album chart, and promises to be an exhilarating club record built around high art references and social commentary.

Avant-pop and electronic superstar Charli XCX has become an iconic figure in the arts, having

helped expand the landscape of popular music over the last decade by seamlessly traversing the underground and mainstream with her artistic output. Over the course of a trailblazing career, the multi-hyphenate creative has earned critical acclaim for her innovative style and

entrepreneurial spirit and seen her forward-thinking approach reshape pop culture in the process.

Her lasting impact was cemented last year when Charli was honoured with the Visionary Award at the annual Ivor Novellos in London, while she also received the Powerhouse Award at Billboard’s Women In Music ceremony in Los Angeles in March.

After more than a decade of lighting up Australia's soul scene and stages across the country, Fulton Street is all grown up with the release of their sophomore album 'Hard Truths' – and they aren't holding back. Raw and real, 'Hard Truths' is forthright funk that shoots straight from the heart.

Made with great reverence to the roots of funk and soul, 'Hard Truths' is made up of 11 songs recorded directly to tape. Produced and mixed by Fulton Street's very own Jamie Stroud, the album was recorded with Alex Bennett from Sound Recordings in Castlemaine and is a tribute to the rawness of analogue recording, resulting in a sound that makes you feel like you are right there in the room.

From their Uni days, Fulton Street has retained a truly vibrant sound that has only grown into a lion's roar. Recorded and produced to perfection, 'Hard Truths' is a record for retro music lovers who are looking to hear something true.

Fulton Street has lit up festival stages across Australia's biggest events, as well as continuously selling out feature shows. They have enthralled crowds at Moomba Festival, Tasmanian Wine Festival, Caloundra Music Festival, Boogie Festival, Brunswick Music Festival, St Kilda Festival, Melbourne Music Week, Stonnington Jazz Festival, as well as Bluesfest sideshow support slots.

Coming to full form in Melbourne's most iconic and sweatiest soul venues, Fulton Street is regularly featured nationally on the stations where the true music aficionados live: PBS, Triple R and Triple J.

From Sweden with Italo to Dresden with love. Stockholm's DJ City drops his first release on Dresden's Uncanny Valley with the COSMICOMICS EP, a 100% fun record for all the senses, deeply inspired by Italo Calvino's iconic short story collection.

The stories have inspired DJ City to a record that aesthetically draws from 80s Italo Disco and 70s science fiction films. In the book, each story is based on a scientific fact about the world and the cosmos whilst using fiction to ask how we understand it. Where Calvino's stories are comical and absurd, DJ City surrenders to the sublime and romantic and moves further into the metaphysical world that Calvino created to come up with three energetic and melodic tracks bursting heavily with fantasy and drama. Deeply rooted in dance music's history, they shine with Hi-NRG-vibes, strict dancefloor commitment and little easter eggs like that Drexciya-reference in COSMICOMICS.

The cover of the record is a painting from 2020 by Swedish artist Jens Faenge called THE INN. The picture seems to have been broken up into several dimensions, and abstract details make it difficult for the viewer to know exactly what and when the scene is taking place. When shown in Shanghai, the painting was censored by government agents and had to be taken down. A testament to the power of the image. Perhaps it shows our main character, perhaps it shows us the author or the artist. Depending on who listens, who reads and who looks, a multitude of universes open.

Music from Skalpel's iconic debut for Ninja Tune, reinterpreted by top Polish producers! 

Poland's ambassadors of jazz-inspired electronics invited outstanding local producers of downtempo, dance music, hip-hop, and jazz to remix this album. The result is "Recut," the best remix album in the history of Polish phonography. A record every bit as worthy as the historic original. It’s an extraordinary tale of the past and present of Polish electronic music.


This year marks the 20th anniversary of the release of Skalpel’s debut album, which was released by the famous British label Ninja Tune in 2004. The Polish duo, Marcin Cichy and Igor Pudło, gained international acclaim by venturing into the then lesser-known territory of Eastern European jazz, updating it with electronic tools.
Pitchfork praised the album enthusiastically: „On these tracks, Skalpel smudge the line between organic and electronic effortlessly, like a landscape artist working with charcoal, creating deep nuances of light and shadow that give the work its overall depth. (…)Its rhythmic dexterity and melodic sweep are hard to deny” -
The prestigious The Wire added: "Jazz, breaks, scat shuffles and funky riffs? of the highest standard. This release deserves to see them revered far beyond Poland"

Today, looking back over two decades, this album can be confidently considered a milestone in Polish electronica and a timeless classic of downtempo, nu-jazz, and trip-hop. Thanks to this record, the band also gained worldwide recognition, and their subsequent consistently high-quality albums like "Highlight" and "Origins" continue to attract significant interest.
Skalpel’s debut with Ninja Tune undoubtedly changed the face of Polish music, redefined the perception of the Polish jazz canon, and paved the way for younger creators. "Many of them, on 'Recut,' pay tribute to the enduring legacy of Marcin Cichy and Igor Pudło.
Artists like Magiera, Emade, 1988, Kixnare, Steez, Latarnik, Envee, Pejzaż, Etnobotanika, and others are now recognized names and respected figures in the Polish music scene. Though each of the artists invited by the Wrocław duo has developed their own original style, they find common roots in the duo’s music, on the border between jazz groove, hip-hop ease, downtempo moodiness, or ambient.
The excellent interpretations showcase the incredible potential revealed by Skalpel’s debut material, which continues to inspire new discoveries. This is a record that does not age, still captivates, and continues to inspire and provoke new interpretations.


Let’s RECUT this!!

Acony Records is proud to present Woodland, the new album by the preeminent songwriting team Gillian Welch & David Rawlings. Following up their homespun GRAMMY-winning release All The Good Times, this ambitious 10 song album mingles full band tracks with intricate duet performances all tied together with the duo's signature sound and remarkable lyricism. Woodland was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee at Welch and Rawlings' own Woodland Sound Studio (newly rebuilt after the 2020 tornado) and cements the duo's iconoclastic position at the forefront of acoustic music

180 Gram Vinyl The album `A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra' was released in 1957 and features the Ralph Brewster Singers along with an orchestra conducted by Gordon Jenkins. It's devided in two parts with side one featuring secular holiday tunes, while side two has more religious Christmas carols. Sinatra is regarded as one of the most popular entertainers of the mid-20th century. He is among the world's best-selling music artists, with an estimated 150 million record sales globally. Over the course of his career Sinatra received eleven Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Trustees Award, Grammy Legend Award, and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was included in Time magazine's compilation of the 20th century's 100 most influential people. American music critic Robert Christgau called him "the greatest singer of the 20th century" and he continues to be regarded as an iconic figure.

180 Gram, gold marble Vinyl The album `A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra' was released in 1957 and features the Ralph Brewster Singers along with an orchestra conducted by Gordon Jenkins. It's devided in two parts with side one featuring secular holiday tunes, while side two has more religious Christmas carols. Sinatra is regarded as one of the most popular entertainers of the mid-20th century. He is among the world's best-selling music artists, with an estimated 150 million record sales globally. Over the course of his career Sinatra received eleven Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Trustees Award, Grammy Legend Award, and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was included in Time magazine's compilation of the 20th century's 100 most influential people. American music critic Robert Christgau called him "the greatest singer of the 20th century" and he continues to be regarded as an iconic figure.

180 Gram Vinyl Get ready to spin some holiday magic with the Christmas Hits record! This festive collection is packed with timeless music from legendary artists like Brenda Lee, Connie Francis, Elvis Presley, The Beverly Sisters, and many more. Perfect for setting the holiday mood, this LP will keep every Christmas lover's spirits bright. Whether you're trimming the tree or sipping cocoa by the fire, let these iconic voices bring the joy of the season to your home.

180 Gram, Gold Vinyl Get ready to spin some holiday magic with the Christmas Hits record! This festive collection is packed with timeless music from legendary artists like Brenda Lee, Connie Francis, Elvis Presley, The Beverly Sisters, and many more. Perfect for setting the holiday mood, this LP will keep every Christmas lover's spirits bright. Whether you're trimming the tree or sipping cocoa by the fire, let these iconic voices bring the joy of the season to your home.

Joni Mitchell Gets Jazzy, Counterbalances Love and Trust with Freedom and Confusion on Court and Spark


Mobile Fidelity's UltraDisc One-Step 180g 45RPM 2LP
Plays with Definitive Detail and Clarity: Pressed on MoFi SuperVinyl Strictly Limited to 5,000 Numbered Copies
Box Set Features New Liner Notes
1/4" / 15 IPS / Dolby A analogue master to DSD 256 to analogue console to lathe


Court and Spark, the most commercially successful album of Joni Mitchell's trailblazing career, arrived after a year in which she took some time to breathe and kept a low profile. The pause led to more breakthroughs for the singer-songwriter. Marking Mitchell's increasing drift toward jazz (and affinity for Miles Davis and John Coltrane), Court and Spark garnered four Grammy nominations, earned the Best Album of the Year vote in the prestigious Pazz & Jop poll, and ranks #110 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

Sourced from the original analog master tapes, pressed at Fidelity Record Pressing on MoFi SuperVinyl, strictly limited to 5,000 numbered copies, and featuring new liner notes, Mobile Fidelity's UltraDisc One-Step 180g 45RPM 2LP box set presents the 1974 classic with definitive detail, tonality, and directness. Marking the first time the revered LP has received audiophile-quality treatment, it's one of six iconic 1970s Mitchell records Mobile Fidelity is reissuing on vinyl and SACD sets.

Benefitting from a virtually nonexistent noise floor, dead-quiet surfaces, and superior groove definition, this collectible edition reproduces without compromise the textures, details, and breathtaking craftsmanship that help make Court and Spark into what many fans believe is the Canadian native’s finest hour. Notes bloom and decay as they do amid an acoustic live environment. Soundstages extend far and deep, with black backgrounds and balanced tones adding to the uncanny realism.

The reference-grade presence and openness put in transparent view Mitchell’s incisive words and unique phrasing, as well as the contributions of her prized support musicians — including Tom Scott and the L.A. Express as well as guest turns by the likes of David Crosby, Graham Nash, Jose Feliciano, and Robbie Robertson. Mitchell, experimenting with the melodic parameters of guitar and piano, is rightly found at the center of it all. The jazz-rock rhythms of drummer John Guerin, slippery guitar lines of Larry Carlton, vibrant horns and reeds laid down by Scott — crucial to the songs’ shape-shifting arrangements — can now also be heard with fresh ears.

Visually and physically, the packaging of the Court and Spark UD1S set complements its distinguished status. Housed in a deluxe slipcase, both LPs come in foil-stamped jackets with faithful graphics that illuminate the splendor of the recording. This reissue is for listeners who desire to engage themselves in everything involved with the album, including Mitchell’s “The Mountain Loves the Sea” painting — a picture of waves embracing and receding away from a mountain, a metaphor for the record’s lyrical themes — on the cover art.

Pitching deceptively light compositions against underlying tensions, Court and Spark witnesses the singer-songwriter finding her footing with a group of top-shelf musicians who seemingly understand her visions as well as expanding her lyrical palette and venturing further into territory no artist had dared explore. Mitchell’s accessibly complex structures, beat-propelled rhythms, and spirited interplay with Scott & Co. both give the music a different identity than her prior efforts and point in the directions she soon headed.

Lyrically, Court and Spark matches the wit, integrity, originality, and intellect of anything in Mitchell’s oeuvre — no small feat. Offsetting positives with negatives, and considering circumstances from multiple angles, Mitchell explores issues connected to love and freedom, certainty and confusion, and trust and fear with unfettered boldness and introspective empathy. She teeters between surrender and retreat, and spends a majority of the record sussing out the complications and sacrifices involved with such actions.

Mitchell addresses the transactional nature of desire (the intimate title track, the upbeat “Raised on Robbery,” complete with rock ‘n’ roll pep from Robertson and zesty sax from Scott); anticipation and disappointment of romance (“Car on a Hill,” “”Down to You); fame and celebrity (“A Free Man in Paris,” “People’s Parties”); and sanity (the dark and stormy “Trouble Child,” a satirical cover of Annie Ross’ “Twisted”). Throughout, she sings with an emotionally penetrating beauty and devastating honesty that teaches about ourselves.

Or, as Mitchell relays on “People’s Parties”: “Laughing and crying/You know it’s the same release.”

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water, THE ROUTES are back with their unique blend of beat-you-to-death surf music (IGGY POP). Their latest target: the music of JOY DIVISION!

Having previously surfy-fied the songs of KRAFTWERK and BUZZCOCKS, Surfin' Pleasures sees THE ROUTES take on the music of JOY DIVISION. As with their previous tributes, this is not an album of note for note cover versions. THE ROUTES have only taken subtle melodic and rhythmic hints from the original songs; rearranging them into songs of their own, respectfully and lovingly translating the music of JOY DIVSION into a different musical language.

Surfin' Pleasures sees twelve classic JOY DIVISION songs reimagined and rearranged as banging 60s surf guitar instrumentals (a la THE VENTURES, DICK DALE, SHADOWS, TRASHMEN, TERAUCHI TAKESHI, LINK WRAY, THE SURFARIS and THE ASTRONAUTS and more).

Prepare to be taken on a wild musical trip where A Means To An End and Ice Age are transformed into the background music of a 60s drag race movie, Transmission hints at the classic ASTRONAUTS sound, and Digital gets the beach party treatment... You don't have to be a fan of JOY DIVISION to enjoy these tunes, and likewise if you're a JOY DIVISION fan you don't need to be a fan of surf music to enjoy them.

The record cover comes courtesy of British design icons Peter Saville and Malcolm Garrett. It is a reworking of Peter Saville's design for JOY DIVISION's Unknown Pleasures. Reminiscent of the op art of Bridget Riley, the lines are no longer that of a pulsar, but that of the sound wave of a reverb tank. Its cover design is provided with calender embossing as well as a printed inner sleeve, just like the hit-album Unknown Pleasures.

Blasphemy or alchemy? You decide!

One thing is for sure is that THE ROUTES have provided the world with yet another future cult classic, destined to irk or jerk for eons to come.

Acony Records is proud to present Woodland, the new album by the preeminent songwriting team Gillian Welch & David Rawlings. Following up their homespun GRAMMY-winning release All The Good Times, this ambitious 10 song album mingles full band tracks with intricate duet performances all tied together with the duo's signature sound and remarkable lyricism. Woodland was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee at Welch and Rawlings' own Woodland Sound Studio (newly rebuilt after the 2020 tornado) and cements the duo's iconoclastic position at the forefront of acoustic music

LINKIN PARK—Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Phoenix, Joe Hahn, alongside new members Emily Armstrong of critically acclaimed band Dead Sara as co-vocalist and Colin Brittain songwriter/producer for G Flip, Illenium, One OK Rock as drummer—share their first brand new music in seven years.

The iconic band shared a new single “The Emptiness Machine,” which is also the herald for the arrival of LINKIN PARK’s first album since 2017, FROM ZERO, on November 15.

About the new era, Shinoda stated, “Before LINKIN PARK, our first band name was Xero. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey we’re currently undertaking. Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and future—embracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans. We are proud of what LINKIN PARK has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.”

Right out of the gate, “The Emptiness Machine” channels the DNA of LINKIN PARK, harnessing the band’s explosive energy and retaining the hallmarks of their instantly identifiable and inimitable sound. A chameleonic and catchy anthem, Shinoda’s hypnotic melodies hand off to Armstrong’s blistering chorus, over distorted riffs and head-nodding drums.

Ultimately, with FROM ZERO, the band is looking to harness the purest energy of their past, present, and future. The new era has officially begun.

LINKIN PARK—Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Phoenix, Joe Hahn, alongside new members Emily Armstrong of critically acclaimed band Dead Sara as co-vocalist and Colin Brittain songwriter/producer for G Flip, Illenium, One OK Rock as drummer—share their first brand new music in seven years.

The iconic band shared a new single “The Emptiness Machine,” which is also the herald for the arrival of LINKIN PARK’s first album since 2017, FROM ZERO, on November 15.

About the new era, Shinoda stated, “Before LINKIN PARK, our first band name was Xero. This album title refers to both this humble beginning and the journey we’re currently undertaking. Sonically and emotionally, it is about past, present, and future—embracing our signature sound, but new and full of life. It was made with a deep appreciation for our new and longtime bandmates, our friends, our family, and our fans. We are proud of what LINKIN PARK has become over the years, and excited about the journey ahead.”

Right out of the gate, “The Emptiness Machine” channels the DNA of LINKIN PARK, harnessing the band’s explosive energy and retaining the hallmarks of their instantly identifiable and inimitable sound. A chameleonic and catchy anthem, Shinoda’s hypnotic melodies hand off to Armstrong’s blistering chorus, over distorted riffs and head-nodding drums.

Ultimately, with FROM ZERO, the band is looking to harness the purest energy of their past, present, and future. The new era has officially begun.

Section 25 release their 10th studio album ‘Move On’ via Nine X Nine records. Originally formed in Lancashire in 1977 they are best known for their work with iconic Manchester label Factory Records. Fusing elements of post-punk, electro and synth-pop their sound is unmistakable and influential. ‘Move On’ has optimism at its core. It is a reflection of the past and a meditation on the present. Emotionally engaging with the here and now by understanding what has passed. Section 25 have built a lasting legacy as one of Britain’s most important bands in electronic music. Younger audiences may be familiar with their work through it being extensively sampled, including by Kanye West. The band were also namechecked in LCD Soundsystem’s breakout single ‘Losing My Edge’.

Out of print for 15 years, Soul Jazz Records’ “Do It Yourself” features a host of postpunk, punk, punk funk/dance and electronic experimentation from UK bands in
the late 70s and 80s that all arrived in the aftermath of punk. As well as loads of
great music, the album also charts the rise of the independent music industry in
Britain that similarly thrived during this time.
Featuring classic groups such as The Buzzcocks, A Certain Ratio, The Fire Engines,
Glaxo Babies and a host of lesser known, rare and obscure tracks and artists, this
new 2024 edition comes as a limited edition special coloured version double vinyl
pressing, complete with deluxe gatefold sleeve with two unique inner sleeves.
This fully remastered album comes with extensive sleevenotes and photography
as well as interviews with key behind-the-scene players – including studios,
cutting rooms, print works – that together bring a fantastic insight into the DIY
music and culture of this period and the explosion in the independent music
industry after punk.

From Karma Recordings comes their eigth EP. They are continuing their trend of getting their heroes from the 90’s to remix the original sound.

The massive rave icon Ellis Dee, one of the biggest producers on the planet brings his unique blend of piano sounds to the hands in the air anthem Warehouse Crew by DJ KOS, as well as featuring the original. DJ Ande has gone a little different with his hardcore tune Trip Home Pt 1 which is a nod to the classic hardcore tunes Trip to the Moon by Acen. To round things off web ring back DJ Terrace to hammer home a wicked tune in Top Gun which makes this another belter of an EP not to be missed.

Vick Lavender is back with another quality vinyl release on his Sophisticado label. First up is the title track "Afro Go", an Afro jazz influenced piece that's sure to inspire dancers & deep house music lovers world wide. Next up is "Ambrosia", an atmospheric yet deep house cut. The B side features a previously release collaboration with house music icon Robert Owens: "Tonight". Bringing this EP to a close is the slow burner "Acis outpost", with iconic Chicago acid house overtones, but then Vick & company (Justin Dillard) turns the acid concept on it's head and it becomes their vision totally

180 Gram, Red Vinyl `Christmas With Ol' Blue Eyes' is an extension of Sinatra's most beloved holiday album `A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra'. It includes the bonus tracks `Christmas Dreaming', `Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow' and `Santa Claus Is Coming To Town'. His deep blue eyes earned him the popular nickname "Ol' Blue Eyes" which gave the record its title. Sinatra is regarded as one of the most popular entertainers of the mid-20th century. He is among the world's best-selling music artists, with an estimated 150 million record sales globally. Over the course of his career Sinatra received eleven Grammy Awards, including the Grammy Trustees Award, Grammy Legend Award, and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was included in Time magazine's compilation of the 20th century's 100 most influential people. American music critic Robert Christgau called him "the greatest singer of the 20th century" and he continues to be regarded as an iconic figure.

September 26th, 1994 - Jamiroquai released a song that still to this day sounds futuristic. Blending electronic, funk, jazz, soul & pop.

The record was then famously remixed by the legendary David Morales, taking the song to a whole new audience and anthem level… giving the band their first ever Billboard Dance #1.

The iconic music video was directed by Vaughan Arnell & Anthea Benton, and features Jay Kay dancing around a blue room with multiple versions of him and the other band members appearing and disappearing. The use of motion control photography allowed for a seemingly continuous shot as the camera pans around the room.

2024, Michael Gray delivers a modern club interpretation of the classic Jamiroquai anthem on his Sultra Records imprint.

Keeping the original funk, soul undertones of Jamiroquai, he takes us on a housey ride of funky disco rhythms laden with hi-pitched synths, a soul oozing chord melody and grooving drum pattern that sits relaxed allowing the emphasis on Jay Kay’s vocal and new worked bass line to do it’s thing. A lovely alternative to the dance floor classic we all know and love.

Celebrating dance music’s roots in Africa, global music superstars Soweto Gospel Choir and renowned Australian DJ Groove Terminator team up with Grammy-winning producer Latroit to present ‘History of House,’ a global reimagination of the iconic dance music classics that defined a generation.

Featuring exquisite multilingual vocal performances and collaborations with some of Southern Africa's most promising emerging artists, "History of House" stands as a vibrant celebration of music and culture. This album transcends boundaries, effortlessly connecting diverse cultures across generations with an authentic fusion of global beats, Afro house, Amapiano, and house music.

Shock Room it’s a double vinyl release who takes the name from the main room of the discoteque.

ULTIMO IMPERO DI Torino; an historic temple of the techno music from the ‘90s. in this compila)on are all included the most iconic and an)cipated “techno, trance & progressive” grooves that have made dance en)re genera)ons of people, nowadays again on track and well
spinned up by djs all arounf the world.

Fashion icon, catwalker, curator, historian, commentator, activist, Grammy winner and - damn right - DJ, there ain"t much these days that Ms. Honey Dijon doesn"t do with aplomb. Most of her achievements thus far came via her passion for clubbing and the art of DJing, from those early Chicago parties to her role as a de facto ambassador for world dancefloors. This compilation is a pan-global, multi-era waltz through house music"s storied past. Repping Chicago, there"s Dance Mania"s Dance Kings, Blackjoy and Art Of Tones carrying the flag for Paris and even Shaboom"s Blackpool gets a nod. Some of these are forgotten classics, some are dollar bin finds, and there"s also a brand new Dijon track, sprinkled with her usual mustard-hot flourishes and lightly seasoned with some more recent efforts by Waajeed and Kiko Navarro. This can be consumed on a dancefloor, in the back of a cab or relaxing at home with a glass of something cold (or, if you must, hot).

Joel Sarakula's new album "Soft Focus" is a mid-career album spanning his many influences and genres including Soft-Rock, Funk and Indie Pop, all brought under the umbrella of his gentle gaze and a 'soft' aesthetic. "Soft Focus" is also the name of a photographic technique born out of a spherical abberation of the lens where the image is a bit blurry and undefined: it's both flattering and forgiving on the subject. It's an apt title. As a lifetime wearer of (vintage) glasses, Sarakula knows a lot about spherical abberations. Perhaps he produced these songs with his glasses off as these are abstract and warm vignettes, never overstaying their welcome and for this reason Sarakula manages to feature twelve new tracks on "Soft Focus".

Highlights include one of the two Shawn Lee produced tracks "I'll Get By Without You", the rockier, iberic beat of "King Of Spain", the soulful affirmation of "Back For Your Love" and the psychedelic-tinged "Bird Of Paradise" and "Microdosing". This is a lovingly crafted album, well polished and it feels like the culmination of Sarakula's adventures in soulful soft-rock and his defining statement in the genre. While comparisons will be made with contemporary projects like Shawn Lee's Young Gun Silver Fox, Drugdealer, Benny Sings and Prep, echoes of soft-rock icons Ned Doheny, Boz Scaggs, Todd Rundgren and Michael Franks also ripple gently through the album.

Imagine if Ray Manzarek was the frontman for the Bee Gees... It's a neat visual introduction to Joel Sarakula, a UK-based Australian artist who writes, produces and sings Soulful Pop, gazing out at a contemporary world through vintage glasses, vintage threads and long blond hair. His music is informed by a rich, 1970s-inspired palette, drawing on soft-rock, funk and disco influences: sunny, uptempo jams for darker times. Self-aware that he looks and occasionally sounds like the love child of Ray Manzarek and the Gibb brothers, his self-deprecating sense of humour is always there just below the fringe.

Born in Sydney, based in UK and international in outlook Sarakula is a songwriter who has travelled the world in search of his muse, experiencing everything from being a victim of Caribbean carjackings to performing in the remote fishing villages of Norway before finally establishing his career in the UK and Europe. Since then he has released albums such as "Island Time" (2023), "Companionship" (2020), "Love Club" (2018) and "The Imposter" (2015) that have racked up plays on rotation across national UK and European radio and got him noticed in The New York Times, The Independent (UK), The Irish Times, Rolling Stone Germany, El Pais (Spain) and Sydney Morning Herald. It's- been a long road finding his current cult status starting out at the piano from a young age in suburban Sydney, writing and singing songs by the time he was a teenager and onstage by fifteen years old playing jazz standards in his local golf club. "I came from humble beginnings, it's best not to mention" as he sings in his 70s boogie influenced song "I'm Still Winning". Joel Sarakula is a fixture on the festival and club circuit having previously performed at SXSW, Primavera Sound and Glastonbury festivals. Ever the internationalist, he tours with pickup bands sourced from each territory he plays in: a Barcelona band for Spain, a Berlin band for Germany and so forth. This cross-cultural exchange is another echo of the 1970s when world travelling soul and pop artists from the US did the same and guarantees that his live shows remain fresh, exciting and absolutely contemporary.

In the eternal city of Rome, where the whispers of cryptic ecclesiastical hierarchies still linger, FELDSPAR emerges as a musical enigma, delving into the shadows to unravel, with a certain dose of irony and creativity, the clandestine threads of power. Named after a mineral purportedly worn by a covert Roman clergy, this entity consists of six eclectic souls working tirelessly to expose the elusive puppeteers who have shaped the lives of millions of people since the beginning of time. Formed in late 2023 and based just a stone's throw from the Vatican, the Godless folk two blocks from the Pope, FELDSPAR's journey begins with the legendary Andrew Mecoli, founder of the iconic Growing Concern, Mecoli's guitar riffs echo the peculiar spirit of Italian hardcore. Joining him is Stefano Casanica, a prolific songwriter and producer, whose musical odyssey spans decades with undertakings in Undertakers, Craiving, Crude, and collaborations that transcend genres. Casanica's production magic is immortalized in Noyz Narcos cult classic 'Non dormire', a cornerstone of Italian hardcore rap with millions of streamings so far. Old City, New Ruins," the debut album of Feldspar, takes its title from Rome, the city where the band is based. It depicts the contemporary ruins of the capital, yet it's merely a pretext to expose the complexities of everyday life common to Western societies and their major cities, foremost among them.

The legendary Lagoa club, a temple of techno in Menin, is celebrating its 34th anniversary in style with the exclusive release of LAGOA TRAX Vol. 1, a vinyl compilation featuring four unreleased tracks composed by four of the club's iconic resident DJs: Manu Kenton, DJ HS, Jamie Dill, and Max Walder. These artists, who have made their mark in Lagoa's history with their memorable performances, pay tribute to the soul and energy of the club through compositions that are true to its unique musical style, known for its powerful beats and dynamic sounds.

This vinyl captures the essence of Lagoa's legendary nights, offering fans four exclusive tracks to once again vibe to the intense rhythm that has shaped the club's reputation.

Le légendaire club Lagoa, temple de la techno à Menin, célèbre son 34ème anniversaire en grande pompe avec la sortie exclusive de LAGOA TRAX Vol. 1, un vinyle regroupant quatre titres inédits, composés par quatre des DJ résidents emblématiques du club : Manu Kenton, DJ HS, Jamie Dill et Max Walder. Ces artistes, qui ont marqué l’histoire de Lagoa avec leurs performances mémorables, rendent hommage à l'âme et à l'énergie du club à travers des compositions fidèles à son style musical unique, reconnu pour ses rythmes puissants et ses sonorités dynamiques.

Ce vinyle capture l'essence des nuits légendaires de Lagoa, offrant aux fans quatre morceaux exclusifs pour vibrer à nouveau sur le rythme intense qui a forge la reputation du club.

In 2009, you couldn't ignore Kyteman. It truly was his year. His album "The Hermit Sessions" likely topped the year-end lists of many critics and music enthusiasts. With his HipHop Orchestra, sometimes 25 members strong, Kyteman made more than his mark at numerous festivals, including Pinkpop, Paaspop, Oerol, North Sea Jazz, Lowlands, Appelpop, a sold-out gig at the HMH in Amsterdam, and many club performances, always bringing the energy to the next level. His appearances on Dutch televisionshows like 'Raymann Is Laat' and 'De Wereld Draait Door' are also legendary. Now, 15 years later, the music has not lost any of its power. It is high time for a re-release of this iconic album in a special Anniversary Edition, with an additional insert with photo's, credits and a reflection by Colin Benders.







g Sorry Live @ Tivoli

i It Curcus [Not]







[g] Sorry [Live @ Tivoli]

[i] It Curcus [Not]

In 2009, you couldn't ignore Kyteman. It truly was his year. His album "The Hermit Sessions" likely topped the year-end lists of many critics and music enthusiasts.

With his HipHop Orchestra, sometimes 25 members strong, Kyteman made more than his mark at numerous festivals, including Pinkpop, Paaspop, Oerol, North Sea Jazz, Lowlands, Appelpop, a sold-out gig at the HMH in Amsterdam, and many club performances, always bringing the energy to the next level. His appearances on Dutch televisionshows like 'Raymann Is Laat' and 'De Wereld Draait Door' are also legendary. Now, 15 years later, the music has not lost any of its power. It is high time for a re-release of this iconic album in a special 15th Anniversary Edition, with an additional booklet with photo's, credits and a reflection by Colin Benders.

The title track, Pink Velvet is as smooth as velvet and as playful as pink. Featuring a full string and horn section in the choruses. Harking back to the glory age of musical sounds heard at iconic places like Paradise Garage and The Loft, but with modern production and arp synth lines and solos filling verses.

A2 Don’t Wait was a 'note to self'. Life’s short, do the thing, do the thing now. Funnily enough the track is kinda the opposite, it meanders, it noodles, it’s a journey, until… until the choruses, then it doesn’t wait, it drops, it happens, just like life!!

Flipping over to the B side, On My Mind is a love song, a ballad if you will. This dubbed out, solo ridden number explores existential themes like life, love, thought and spring reverb… all things fundamental to human existence.

And rounding out the EP, really giving you something for every occasion - B2 features Inkswel’s masterful REMIX/reinterpretation of On My Mind featuring two new vocalists LYMA bringing that sultry magic he is becoming renowned for and Elf Trazporter laying down the absolute heat. It’s broken beat in feel and party in nature.

No one has lived a life quite like Marcos Valle. He became an overnight international sensation, fled a military dictatorship, dodged the Vietnam war draft, had his music sung by Homer Simpson, made enemies with Marlon Brando, and became an unsuspecting fitness guru for multiple generations. But to truly understand the great Brazilian composer, arranger, singer and multi instrumentalist, one must listen to his music.

Lead Single (Life Is What It Is) : Between the release of his first album in 1962 and today, Marcos Valle has released twenty-two studio albums traversing definitive bossa nova, classic samba, iconic disco pop, psychedelic rock, nineties dance and orchestral music. He has also had his songs recorded by some of the all time greats, including Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughn, Sergio Mendes, Elis Regina, and (last but not least), Emma Button of the Spice Girls. He has also had his music sampled by Jay-Z, Kanye West, Pusha T and many more.


With his twenty-third studio album Túnel Acustico, Valle set out to bring it all together.

“I believe my music is many things. It goes in different directions. I have many different ways of writing music, sometimes it’s melodies and harmony, sometimes the groove is the focus. But all the music I have made over my sixty year career is unified. It is all natural and it is all sincere. And this is what I wanted to bring to my new album.”

A prominent feature of Valle’s career has been his dual residence between Brazil and the USA. Originally moving over in the mid-sixties on the back of bossa nova’s international proliferation, Valle toured with Sergio Mendes and became hugely in demand as a composer and arranger. But the Vietnam War loomed and the threat of being drafted saw him return to Brazil. He spent the following years in Rio writing music for TV and film, as well as four cult favourite albums in collaboration with some of Brazil’s most groundbreaking musicians including Milton Nascimento, Azymuth, Som Imaginario and O Terco.

By 1975, Brazil's military dictatorship was at its most oppressive, making living and working increasingly difficult. Valle moved back to the US where he would reside in LA, writing songs for, and collaborating with the likes of Eumir Deodato, Airto Moreira, Chicago, Sarah Vaughn and Leon Ware, amongst others.

Túnel Acústico features two songs originally conceived during Valle’s time on the West Coast: “Feels So Good”, a stirring two-step soul triumph written in 1979 with soul icon Leon Ware, and the sublime AOR disco track “Life Is What It Is”, composed around the same time, with percussionist Laudir De Oliveira from the group Chicago.

Built around an unfinished demo Marcos found on a shelf in his house 44 years after it was made, the “Feels So Good” demo was restored with the help of producer Daniel Maunick, who also utilised AI stem-separation to remove the placeholder vocal ad-libs. Valle added Portuguese lyrics to sit alongside Ware’s vocal hook, as well as extra keyboards and percussion.

Also written in late seventies LA, “Life Is What Is It” was co-penned by Laudir De Oliveira from the band Chicago and first released on the bands’ Chicago 13 album with lyrics by Robert Lamb. Another nod to his good times in LA, Valle recorded his own version for Túnel Acústico, upping the tempo and deepening the groove for a blast of irresistible summer soul.

On Túnel Acústico, Valle's core band features two members of the renowned Brazilian jazz-funk group Azymuth: Alex Malheiros on bass and Renato Massa on drums. The rhythm section is completed by percussionist Ian Moreira, with additional contributions from guitarist Paulinho Guitarra and trumpeter Jesse Sadoc.

The contemporarily composed music on Túnel Acústico features an impressive lineup of guest lyricists, including renowned Brazilian artists: Joyce Moreno (Bora Meu Vem), Céu (Nao Sei), and Moreno Veloso (Palavras Tão Gentis) as well as Valle's brother Paulo Sergio Valle (Tem Que Ser Feliz).

The album closes with "Thank You Burt (For Bacharach)", a tribute to the legendary composer who passed away in 2023.

Túnel Acústico will be released on 20th September 2024 via Far Out Recordings. Valle is set to tour Europe and America in support of the album.

Seth Troxler’s Slacker 85 imprint prepares to expand its repertoire of ne’er do wells and inspired outsiders, with two new singles shining a flashlight on talent at the characteristically esoteric producers on the fringes of Troxler’s always increasing circles.

American-Ecuadorian sound engineer and musician Andre Salmon has already left his fingerprints on underground dance music’s global scene, developing the current iteration of Inner City with Kevin Saunderson, as well as collaborating with house icons Paul Johnson and K’Alexi Shelby. Having already made a fixture of his supremely effective ‘Heartless’ mashup of Saint Etienne’s classic ‘Only Love Can Break Your Heart’, Slacker now welcomes Salmon to the family to exercise his studio technique and ‘sacred resonance’ deepness. The result is ‘La Mano de Dios’, a voluminous dance on the edge of house and techno, as smooth and impressive as the jets descending above the Terrace at DC10.

From Detroit to the East Coast, TB-203 delivers a contrasting energy on ‘Movin’. A fresh alias of NYC DJ, producer & label owner Tommy Bones, this bubbling, raw acid workout finds fresh heat at the intersection of jackin’ hip house and latin freestyle, driven by loose and lively vocals from DannyP. Underscoring Slacker 85’s commitment to party over posture, ‘Movin’ has been tried and tested to deliver on its old-school promise.

On How It Ends (?), slinky melodies snake through nocturnal atmospherics, drawing you into a world built on poetic, painterly lyricism. Night Crickets, a long-distance groove affair that materialized during the drawn-out days of lockdown, has emerged once again to soundtrack our waking dreams.

David J (Bauhaus, Love & Rockets), Victor DeLorenzo (Violent Femmes) and multi-instrumentalist Darwin Meiners spearhead a loose collective of like-minded creative souls whom, through sheer tenacity and a burning desire to collaborate and create, transcend the restrictions of space and time. Audio files shared from Los Angeles to Milwaukee, from London to the San Francisco Bay, and the ghosts of Candlestick Park shimmer through the fog, coalescing in a glorious ‘gesamtkunstwerk’ that draws from the past, the present and the imagined future.

Declaring Bauhaus, Love And Rockets, and Violent Femmes iconic, foundational bands in the history of alternative music would receive little pushback from those in the know. San Francisco born artist Darwin Meiners is a fan of all three. A chance meeting with David J grew into a friendship, and Darwin not only became a bandmate, but his manager. After reaching out to Victor DeLorenzo through e-mail, Darwin met the Violent Femmes drummer after their set at Coachella. Soon, after the three collaborated on Darwin’s 2014 release Souvenir.

As the pandemic took hold, Darwin was looking for a new project to occupy the lock down time and approached Victor, who was keen to proceed and suggested that David join as well. The musical trust established between these three was immediate and Night Crickets were born. Within weeks a global process was initiated between them, the recordings eventually forming the album, A Free Society.

Following that release, inspired by how well – and quickly – they all worked together, the trio kept up their collaboration. “We are each free to discover musical connections that could only exist in an ideal creative setting” explains Victor. “We are very lucky to have three musicians who write, sing and play various instruments in one trio… our egos seem to melt into one when we face musical decisions, so our expeditions are always filled with pure discovery, humor and drive!”

How It Ends (?) was crafted with the same collaborative spirit as A Free Society. Each member contributed contributed unique elements to spur their collective creativity—whether a drum pattern, a lyrical concept, or a musical idea—and together, they expanded these initial sparks into the finished work. True to their approach, much of what you hear was captured in the first take, reflecting a genuine, unfiltered moment.

The music on the How It Ends (?) is a true evolution of the debut album. It is deeper and darker. Having said that, the dark tone is alleviated by a healthy measure of the buoyant, bouncy and melodic. “Much of the new material is very psychedelic and the contrast between this heavy, dark psychedelia and the more uplifting pop elements puts me in mind of The Beatles’ ‘Revolver’ album to some degree,” tells David J. “The recording process for the new album was exactly the same as the first in that we all recorded remotely, taking turns to share files and reacting spontaneously to the previous track, overdubbing then passing on once again until we all felt that the track was done.”

“While we didn’t start with a specific theme, the album emerged as a contemplative exploration of endings” says Darwin. “It touches on the loss of individuals, the shifting of ideas, and the fragility of systems. Beneath this sense of darkness and finality, however, there are threads of beauty and glimpses of hope. We invite you to immerse yourself in the album and experience the journey we’ve embarked upon.”

2024 is the year that saw iconic trance-act 2 FLYING STONES resurrect.
Early trance with a capital T
Remixed by trance GRANDmasters M.I.K.E. PUSH and NICO PARISI.

This is without a doubt the hottest group of the year in its genre. Every release is sold out in hours.
2 Flying Stones have gained a massive fanbase in the past 30 years thanks to their iconic hits MAYBE TOMORROW, NUCLEAR JESUS IN PARADISE OF LOVE and A GREAT DAY.

2 of these classics have been remixed by none the less than M.I.K.E. PUSH (known from his classics THE LEGACY, TRANZY STATE OF MIND and UNIVERSAL NATION) and NICO PARISI, one of the biggest names in the Benelux underground trance-scene, part of Aqualord and original author of the 2023 monsterhit METRO (covered by Mau P & Kevin De Vries)

Prepare for Some Standout Tracks ! Robsoul Recordings Proudly Presents “Kinda Cloudy Ep” by the Iconic Nail (Aka Neil Tolliday). as a Cornerstone Artist of Robsoul, Nail Has Consistently Delivered Tracks That Define the Underground House Scene. This Ep Is No Exception, Showcasing His Ability to Craft Diverse and Captivating soundscapes.
“Kinda Cloudy Ep” Features Tracks That Highlight Nail’s Versatility and Depth in House Music. Each Track Is a Journey Through Different Vibes and Rhythms, Demonstrating Why He Remains a Favorite Among House Music Aficionados. Phil Weeks Himself Has Praised This Ep, Noting Its Standout Tracks That Reflect Nail’s Innovative Approach to music
.Nail’s Legacy in the House Music World Is Profound, With a Career Spanning Decades and a Reputation for Producing Timeless Tracks. His Work Continues to Influence and Inspire, Making “Kinda Cloudy Ep” a Must-Listen for Anyone Who Appreciates Quality House Music. Dive Into the “Kinda Cloudy Ep” and Experience the Diverse Sounds of Nail....

Just over 20 years since its original release on Aphex Twin’s Rephlex records, DMX Krew’s classic We Are DMX receives its much needed first reissue on Cold Blow. It expands the original LP into a full 2xLP gatefold with four(!) bonus tracks, including instrumentals and the beloved Denki No Merodi now for the first time on 12”.

We Are DMX is a testament to the true depth of Ed DMX’s musicianship. From catchy electro pop sing-alongs to melodic dance tracks defying pigeonholes, the album was crafted almost entirely by Ed himself. True to the original album credits, the reissue is mastered by the legendary Matt Colton and is housed behind the iconic artwork by Manuel Sepulveda of Optigram.

* Strictly limited-edition 5x12” vinyl hard case box with spot varnish finish on the front and back and full colour sleeves for each vinyl.

* V Recordings marks three decades of groundbreaking Drum & Bass with '30 Years of V', an album featuring 22 fresh tracks that honour the label's rich legacy while paving the way for its future.

* Presented as a collectable 5 x12” Vinyl hard case box set, with spot vanish finish, this project links the past of V to it’s future and shows the label is as dynamic and relevant as ever.

* A selection of brand new music, from the current V family as well as remixes of some recent big hitters and seminal classics. Over recent years, V Recordings itself has continued in the mold in which it was formed, releasing music from some of modern-day D&B’s most exciting, innovative and committed artists.

* This project which label head honcho Bryan Gee has painstakingly compiled over the past few years, sees the likes of L-Side, Alibi, Break, Serum, Dillinja, Voltage, Paul T & Edward Oberon, Command Strange, Need For Mirrors, Chimpo, Sl8r, Think Tonk, Level 2 and more all on board to see their name alongside V’s iconic sun logo and celebrate this milestone.

* It is a celebration of V Recordings' contribution to our global scene, underscored by support from industry icons like DJ Marky, Watch The Ride, Break, Fabio, Grooverider, Born On Road, Kasra, S.P.Y, Roni Size, Ed Rush, Caylx, Camo & Krooked and many more.

* Since its foundation in 1993 by Bryan Gee and Jumping Jack Frost, V has been a cornerstone of the electronic music world, pushing the boundaries of Jungle and Drum & Bass. The label has been instrumental in the careers of many genre-defining artists, constantly evolving while staying true to the roots of Drum & Bass culture. '30 Years of V' embodies this journey, offering a blend of nostalgia and innovation that appeals to long-time fans and newcomers alike.

Fresh off a rework of Papa Levi with single Ribena, London’s jungle pioneers 4am Kru drop their highly anticipated debut album Incognito Rhythm featuring all the tracks that have cemented their reputation as the go-to act for raw, live jungle music.

Having already taken the 2024 festival circuit by storm with appearances at Outlook Origins, Boomtown, Boardmasters, Reading+ Leeds, The Blind Tiger, Parklife Waterworks, Boundary and a milestone Saturday night closing set at Glastonbury’s Temple Stage, 4am Kru continue to draw audiences into the madness of their raucous blend of 1993-1994 influenced jungle. First bursting onto the scene post-lockdown, the falling monitors and flying bodies of their shows were particularly thrilling for ravers who had turned 18 in isolation.

Originally developing their live sound in indie bands while sharing a studio in Tottenham, the duo quickly realized that the traditional DJ set couldn’t contain the energy of their act. They have since surrendered to the chaos of their incredibly physical performances, nursing chipped bones and back injuries, deep finger taping, chalking up and wearing shoes designed for skipping rope whilst rewiring what it meant to move their bodies. Their innovation extends to the equipment, with the duo reinventing a way to deliver their signature throbbing basslines with a Roland SPD SX drum pad as thick as a car tire. Their upcoming UK tour this October promises to further showcase their immersive, disruptive sound.

4am Kru’s latest single Ribena breathed new life into Papa Levi’s iconic British reggae classic Militancy following the release of hard-hitting Wutt this past July, setting the stage for their most ambitious project yet. Their debut album draws from a wide range of influences in addition to 4am Kru’s signature blend of 90s jungle flavours, from obscure slow jam R&B like Angela Bofill, Janet Jackson and Prince, early hardcore bands like Hüsker Dü, off kilter Scottish folk, and even classical music. The project is a snapshot of the incognito, nocturnal world that the duo have dwelled in for the past two years, a time capsule of well-worn songs played between midnight and 4am. An extraordinary debut, 4am Kru’s Incognito Rhythm is an immersive, razor sharp, face melting journey through their show-stopping live sound.

One of THE most iconic albums to hail from Merseyside. ‘H.M.S. Fable’ was the third LP released from Shack following 1988’s ‘Zilch’ and 1995’s ‘Waterpistol’. A collection of majestic storytelling in guitar form, written by two extraordinarily talented brothers, Michael & John Head.

Originally released on Laurel Records/London Records in 1999, the band at that time comprised of
MICHAEL HEAD - Vocals, Acoustic Guitar JOHN HEAD - Electric Guitar, Vocals REN PARRY- Bass Guitar IAIN TEMPLETON - Drums, Percussion, Backing Vocals.

The album was voted #2 in both NME and Uncut’s critics album of the year polls, only missing out to The Flaming Lips’ ‘The Soft Bulletin’ in both.

Now released on the band’s newly-formed label Shack Songs, ‘H.M.S. Fable’ encompasses many musical styles, from orchestral guitar pop to psychedelic-tinged folk and even elements of Britpop, nicely summed up by the editor of NME Steve Sutherland in a 9/10 review, in June 1999:

‘’Not since Liam Gallagher howled his early indolent disdain has this music sounded so alive. 'Pull Together' is an anthem easily the equal of Oasis at their most loved-up and huge. ‘Comedy' tender and uplifting, like the missing track from 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', 'Daniella' a haunted and exhausted homage to Head's hero Arthur Lee, and 'Lend Some Dough' a rollicking Scouse Play For Today with a chorus that goes, "I've got a sore back and I'm itching’’ ”

The Shack story is one of music’s greatest legends. It incorporates hardship, bereavement and chaotic misadventure, but above all it tells the tale of beautiful music triumphing over trouble and tragedy.

In the 80s, the two brothers from the notorious Kensington estate in north Liverpool were singer and guitarist with The Pale Fountains, an effervescent pop group which imploded under the weight of two albums in 1986. The Heads returned in ‘88 as Shack and a debut album ‘Zilch’. In 1991, Shack made ‘Waterpistol’, an inspirational guitar jewel that would have proved just as influential as any British album in that era had the studio not burned down, taking the master tapes with it. Four more years passed, but by the time it was finally released on Marina it had developed ‘lost classic’ status.

The Heads battled on. They toured as their hero Arthur Lee (RIP) of Love’s backing band. In ‘97, they created a new group called The Strands and recorded the delicate, dreamy masterpiece ‘The Magical World Of The Strands’. They spent a long time making another classic ‘H.M.S. Fable’...