ORANGE VINYL
Daniel Boeckner understands the grit and gravel that accumulates in the heart and that it takes an unwavering courage to crack through that clutter and burrow to the other side. And in Boeckner's hands, that quest comes via post-apocalyptic synth and guitar heroism, a rallying cry for those always coming home through the scorched clouds. Throughout his work with Wolf Parade, Handsome Furs, Divine Fits, Operators, Atlas Strategic, and more, the iconic Canadian indie rocker recognizes that few feelings are more gratifying-more memorable, more generative, more abundant-than hope. But it takes getting the hell out of your own way. A culmination of that deep library of musical reference, Boeckner is set to release his first album under his own name: Boeckner! No matter where his genre exploration has taken him, there's something about growing up in punk and DIY spaces that puts collaboration in Boeckner's blood. Composed of a collection of intimately familiar elements, Boeckner! elicits the same thrill of young passion and discovery. It's a jet-powered chase through a tech-noir cityscape-fueled by a dream and that special someone in the passenger seat. That urgency and passion have always been a trademark of Boeckner's, and writing on his own pushes those feelings further into the center of the scope. But while Boeckner may be the clear driving force behind the album, he's not without collaborators for his solo debut. After meeting producer Randall Dunn while contributing to the soundtrack to the Nicolas Cage-starring psychedelic horror film Mandy, Boeckner knew he'd found the perfect counterpart for his solo debut. "I'd been a fan of his forever, especially the Sunn0))) records he produced," Boeckner says. "Working with Randall really unlocked some suppressed musical urges, things that I enjoy in my private life but don't normally weave into what I'm releasing-like occult synth, pseudo-metal, krautrock, and heavy psych influences." That base allows Boeckner to thoughtfully weave between emotional imagism and more grounded storytelling. Throughout the record, his imagery delves into science fiction, but it's charged first and foremost by experience. The trio of Boeckner, Dunn, and drummer Matt Chamberlain (Pearl Jam, David Bowie, Fiona Apple) formed a sort of dark engine for the album, and Chamberlain's ingenious approach of triggering a vintage Arp synthesizer simultaneously with each drum track helped Boeckner shape the record's atmosphere. That tense futurism was influenced by Boeckner's time staying in Dunn's Circular Ruin studio, a dusky, electronic aura burned into every track. By the end of the album, Boeckner! eases from sci-fi epic into something more akin to a torched VHS copy of a John Cassevetes film, the chemtrails and nuclear fallout fading long in the distance. Like all good sci-fi, the emotion and pain hits home for the author and listener alike, and the genre flourishes bolster the human experience. In revealing more than ever before, Boeckner! ratchets up the musical intensity to unforeseen levels and hopes to find some peace at the end of the journey.
Buscar:k un experience
The album "Folkhemmet" by Raa is a captivating musical journey that was released by Malmos Diskografiska. With its unique blend of folk and indie pop, this album offers a refreshing and soulful listening experience.
Raa, a talented Swedish singer-songwriter, showcases her exceptional storytelling abilities throughout the album. Her heartfelt lyrics delve into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, resonating with listeners on a deep emotional level.
The melodies in "Folkhemmet" are beautifully crafted, combining acoustic instruments with subtle electronic elements. The arrangements are intricate yet understated, allowing Raa's enchanting vocals to take center stage. Her voice effortlessly glides over the melodies, conveying both vulnerability and strength.
Each track on the album has its own distinct personality. From the hauntingly beautiful ballad "Lost in Time" to the upbeat and infectious "Wanderlust," Raa showcases her versatility as an artist. The songs are expertly produced, creating a rich sonic landscape that draws the listener in from start to finish.
"Folkhemmet" is not just an album; it is an immersive experience that transports you to another world. Whether you're looking for introspective moments or catchy tunes to sing along to, this album has something for everyone.
With its thought-provoking lyrics, mesmerizing melodies, and impeccable production quality, "Folkhemmet" is a must-have addition to any music lover's collection. Immerse yourself in Raa's enchanting world and let her music touch your soul.
Japanese alt-rock band BO NINGEN are delighted to announce they will be releasing an alternative soundtrack album to cult director Alejandro Jodorowsky's seminal film 'The Holy Mountain', set for release on 15th March 2024 via Alcopop! Records on double CD and a limited box set of triple vinyl, each in their own unique colour In partnership with Deeper Into Movies, the band will also be hosting a very special live performance of their alternative soundtrack at EartH, Hackney on 1st March 2024 --a 700 capacity tiered seated venue with original Art Deco features and state of the art L-ISA sound system, to provide the best possible experience of this must-see-and-hear event.
Commenting on the release, Kohhei Matsuda (guitar/synth) and Monchan Monna (drums) said: "We wanted to make something more than 'a band jamming to the film' live score. To do so, we tried to decipher the secret of Jodorowsky's alchemy to reach our own Holy Mountain, reflecting the underlying structure of the film-- which is delusional at sight, yet mystically logical throughout--in each stage of the music. It was quite an experience to work on the piece that way, diving deep into the director's vision where the border between the reality, delusion, the film, and real life blurs. Trying not to drown in it all, we had to find our own path back to our own version of reality. This is an aural representation of our own version of the film. We hope each of you find your own way to your own version of The Holy Mountain through reliving this mind-altering journey with us."
The band originally performed their alternative soundtrack to the film 'Holy Mountain' in July 2019 for 2 sold out nights at the Rio Cinema in Dalston, where it was nominated for 'Best Event Cinema Campaign Of The Year 2019'. During the brief latter periods of the pandemic when the band were allowed to travel internationally between London and Japan, BO NINGEN at last managed to reconvene as a unit in London to finally commit the soundtrack to record.
After 2021’s critically acclaimed album “Afraid To Leave”, Berlin based post-punkers Bleib Modern invited artist friends to take an outside perspective on their tracks, resulting in the “2 Afraid 2 Leave” compilation, featuring remixes and reworks from several esteemed names within the darkwave, post-punk and EBM music scenes.
From club bangers like IV Horsemen’s version of “Bitter Smile” and M!R!M’s dreamy lo-fi bedroom synthpop sound on “Into The Night” to Danish deviant pop artist Dune Messiah’s crooner “Loony Voices”. The album also boasts contributions from luminaries like The KVB, The Underground Youth, Blind Delon, Shad Shadows and various Bleib Modern band member side projects.
“2 Afraid 2 Leave” offers listeners a chance to experience Bleib Modern’s music from an altered vantage point, a welcome interlude as the band forges ahead with new creations.
Some artists embrace their success by repeating the steps that originally granted them fame. Billy Joel did the opposite, refusing to be contained by prescribed approaches or constrained by a given label. The follow-up to the breakthrough The Stranger, 52nd Street further expands on its predecessor's bold production techniques and inventive arrangements, incorporating more sophisticated textures as well as reflecting a jazz edge gleaned from New York City's thriving club scene.
A key piece of Mobile Fidelity's Billy Joel catalogue restoration series, 52nd Street is here sourced from the original master tapes and pressed on 45RPM 180g LP at RTI. The wider and deeper grooves – as well as the meticulous mastering – yield resplendent dynamics, broad soundstages, three-dimensional perspectives, and tonal balances absent from prior editions. This is how you want to experience the 1978 LP that captured the Grammy Award for Album of the Year.
Teaming again with producer Phil Ramone, Joel capitalizes on his momentum, churning out another direct-sounding affair replete with captivating melodic devices, showmanship accents, and penetrating lyrics. The singer's concision and focus is evident via the tune's lengths, with only "Until the Night" breaking the six-minute mark. Hit singles "Big Shot" and "My Life" rattle forth with an urgency and intensity that Joel had not previously demonstrated, the combination of passionate deliveries, snide overtones, and insistent grooves setting the table for what follows.
Broadening his palette, and drawing from New York's thriving jazz club scene and the city's late-70s grit, Joel splashes Latin and jazz colours on several pieces, employing veterans such as Dave Grusin and Freddie Hubbard to contribute along with a cast that includes a team of background vocalists and horn players. Everything is tastefully appointed, and yet the vocalist's trademark Broadway gaze and knack for the grand gesture coincide with the straight-ahead swagger.
52nd Street is one of the main reasons why Joel has always been championed for consistency. Everything here, from the production to the stand-up songs, helped redefine mainstream pop-rock. Decades later, it's finally available in fidelity that nears that of the Columbia Records' master tapes produced right on 52nd Street.
In a mesmerizing fusion of two beatsmiths, the renowned Instrumental hip hop virtuosos Thelonious Coltrane and Miller Gold have joined forces to create an unparalleled vinyl release, set to captivate music a¦cionados worldwide. This groundbreaking collaboration seamlessly blends the innovative drumbreaks mastery of Thelonious Coltrane with the synth compositions of Miller Gold. With a collective legacy spanning decades, these two luminaries have rede¦ned the boundaries of instrumental hip hop, in§uencing generations with their distinctive styles. The forthcoming vinyl release promises an immersive journey through the rich tapestry of future sound of instrumental hip hop, offering listeners a transcendent experience that harkens back to the golden age of the genre while pushing the boundaries of contemporary musical expression. From exhilarating improvisations to hauntingly beautiful melodies, each track on the album showcases the unparalleled artistry of Thelonious Coltrane and Miller Gold. Speaking about the collaboration, Thelonious Coltrane expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Working with Miller has been a true privilege. Our shared passion for music and our deep respect for each other's craft have fueled this collaboration, resulting in something truly special." Speaking about the collaboration, Thelonious Coltrane expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Working with Miller has been a true joy. Our shared passion for music and our deep respect for each other's craft have fueled this collaboration, resulting in something trulyspecial." The vinyl release is poised to reignite interest in the timeless allure of instrumental hip hop, drawing both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike into its spellbinding embrace. With its evocative melodies and virtuosic performances, this collaboration between Thelonious Coltrane and Miller Gold promises to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary instrumental hip hop. Stay tuned for anticipated vinyl album
Introducing, the experimental violinist and performer Vanessa Bedoret.
The London-based French musician today announces that she’ll be joining, Scenic Route, a label renowned for selecting and nourishing rising stars for the release of her debut album, Eyes, due out on 8th of March 2024. Launching with a taste of what’s to come, today she also shares single “1/2”, a textural track that tells of the dichotomy between those who are selfless and those who are self-centred, and their need to merge as one. This duality is reflected in the industrial metallic echoes under Vanessa’s soaring vocals and the piercing strings of her chosen instrument, the violin.
Treating songwriting as an instinctive process, Bedoret transforms her deeply personal experiences into pure emotion. Not following any set narrative, Eyes takes the listener on a journey via their own experiences, prompting introspection through Bedoret’s hypnotic melodies.
Through the album, she awakens the audience's imagination, to open up their emotional response. On “Ballad”, a vague, loving lyrical letter to someone close, Bedoret’s heartbreakingly soft lament is barely audible over the dramatic atonal strings. She flips her narrative again in the titular track, “Eyes”, so the listener empathises through her isolated violin, and takes on her anguish, not needing to understand the full story.
Bedoret began her classical training at age 6 and on completion at 18 she embraced the thrill of playing guitar in punk bands, and like many at the turn of adulthood, was quickly captured by the allure of the dancefloor. Her far-reaching taste doesn’t stop there, she also counts black metal to opera and from eurodance to IDM as inspiration. Her deep understanding of musical form elevates her experimentation to a truly unique sonic experience, one that never strays too far from her original love of classical music.
With only a string of releases under her belt via independent labels like Laura Lies In and Archaic Vaults, her refined skillset has meant she’s been in high demand for both solo shows and collaborations. These accolades include playing violin with New York avant garde collective Standing On The Corner at The Serpentine, as well as a part of Kahil El’Zabar conducts MOKI at the ICA, and Linder: Another Music in a Different Arcadia at the Design Museum alongside artist Linder Sterling, Naima Cherry, Maxwell Sterling, Kenichi Iwasa & Ella Frears.
For her solo performances, she’s shared stages with Standing on the Corner, Ekaterina Bazhenova-Yamasaki, Philomème Pirecki, John T. Gast and Nexcyia to name a few. She’s also performed as a duo alongside musician Severin Black in support of their collaborative EP release, First Passage / Excommunicated.
Through the lens of a life lived to it’s fullest and one that does not shy from experiencing the rawest of emotions, it’s clear that Bedoret has a nack for translating personal observations into cinematic crescendoes. The field recordings throughout only heighten this feeling adding both a grounding and other worldy sensibility. Lyrically, she allows you to peek into her private world and for a fleeting moment letting you lock eyes with hers, asking what do you see?
This debut is a glowing experimental work that purrs with a distinctive narrative. Vanessa Bedoret is a promising new act, ready to take 2024 by storm.
Anastasia Zems lands on Alzaya with a new EP resulting from a self-reflective journey marked by hypnotic electronic rhythms that echo the passage of time and the change of life.
ALZC03 – Atlantika EP is a rolling cycle of inspiration, mirroring new experiences and sonic explorations that oscillate from warm memories to dark atmospheres aligned to current events. The EP ends by inviting us to slow down, reinterpreted in a separate track by Eklektique, who uplifts its essence and message.
Pastel de Nata is a track resonating with trance-tech rhythms to evoke warm and welcoming memories in a new home that smells of the Atlantic Ocean.
With Bairro Alto, the piece evolves, wandering and experimenting with old-school trance soundscapes across borders—a memento of the past days spent in local record stores searching for new rhythms.
Casa Amarela tunes into a dark, oppressive atmosphere pronounced by classic acid and arp-bass sounds. A symbol of sorrow and pain tuned to the current times.
The hypnotic, acid, mid-tempo sound in Push The Tempo Down stands high in the sky to remind and invite us to slow down before rising again.
Push The Tempo Down Remix is a unique reinterpretation by Eklektique, injecting hypnotic and acidic components crossed with a groovy bass line to reinforce the track’s essence and message.
- Neophyte – Real Hardcore
- Bodylotion – Make You Dance
- Bodylotion – Hurt You Bad
- Bodylotion – Ik Wil Hakke!
- Neophyte – Neophyte Hardcore
- Neophyte – Number One Fan
- Masters Of Ceremony – Hardcore To Da Bone
- Bodylotion – Mellow Moenie Mauwe
- Neophyte – Mainiak
- Neophyte Vs Evil Activities – One Of These Days
- Neophyte Records All Stars – Adrenaline
- Bodylotion – Happy Is Voor Hobo’s
- Neophyte & Alee – Grondleggers
- Neophyte & The Stunned Guys – Get This Motherfucker (Restrained Remix)
- Tha Playah & Neophyte & The Viper – Rebel Dizz (Tha Playah Remix)
- Neophyte – Braincracking (Nosferatu Remix)
Neophyte presents the second limited-edition vinyl of 30 Years Of Neophyte! Part 2 is here! Neophyte invites you for the second time to celebrate his 30-year anniversary with his second limited double vinyl, carefully selected by the man himself with a mix of classics and newest remixes Surprising tracks and remixes: Immerse yourself in the rich history of hardcore as Neophyte carefully handpicked a selection of tracks that span his career. From underground tracks to fresh remixes, this vinyl has all the essence of his musical journey. Collector’s item: We’ve seen it before with the first part, this vinyl is a collector’s item! Limited in quantity, it’s a precious addition to any hardcore lover’s collection. Be quick and secure yours! Anniversary edition: This double LP is the second and last tribute to Neophyte’s enduring legacy. It encapsulates his 30 years of commitment to the genre and his enduring impact on the hardcore community. Special artwork: Just as the previous vinyl the artwork is specially made, offering a second nostalgic glimpse into the hardcore scene as it was 30 years ago. Each detail has been designed to evoke the spirit of the era. We’ve seen with the previous vinyl, that this limited edition is a must-have addition to your music collection! As the first part was sold-out very quick, be fast before it’s too late! Relive the past, experience the present and celebrate 30 years of Neophyte. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to own the second and last piece of hardcore music history!
Red Vinyl[12,82 €]
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of 'Perfections', Koralle's new EP, now available on Little Beat More!
Koralle, aKa Lorenzo Nada, musician, beatmaker and producer, formerly an underground legend under the moniker Godblesscomputers, returns to put his 'hands in the dough' a few months after the release of his third album 'Insomnia', fusing jazz vibes with the elements that characterise the deep roots of hip-hop in four stylish pearls that capture body and soul in an increasingly intimate dimension.
Listening begins with the EP's title track, "Perfections," a perfect chill awakening, accompanied by fleeting piano notes and a bass drum and snare rhythm in the tradition of the beatmaking masters.
The second track, "Leaf," hints at melancholic and mysterious nostalgic undertones, to be followed by the single "From the Heart," which features the extraordinary participation of Brooklyn lyricist Awon, a mainstay of American jazzrap, who fits in perfectly with Koralle's eclectic sound world.
Finally, the fourth track, 'Come Back to Me Baby,' is a homage to the blues and black music roots of the 1950s, an invitation to rewind the tape and listen to the album all over again.
The EP is enriched by the art of Bernardo "Beerbo" Raspanti: a brightly coloured and variegated coral that tells of the different influences that come together in the artist's work and of a profound and engaging musical experience that will enchant connoisseurs and fans of the noble art of beatmaking.
Black Vinyl[11,72 €]
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of 'Perfections', Koralle's new EP, now available on Little Beat More!
Koralle, aKa Lorenzo Nada, musician, beatmaker and producer, formerly an underground legend under the moniker Godblesscomputers, returns to put his 'hands in the dough' a few months after the release of his third album 'Insomnia', fusing jazz vibes with the elements that characterise the deep roots of hip-hop in four stylish pearls that capture body and soul in an increasingly intimate dimension.
Listening begins with the EP's title track, "Perfections," a perfect chill awakening, accompanied by fleeting piano notes and a bass drum and snare rhythm in the tradition of the beatmaking masters.
The second track, "Leaf," hints at melancholic and mysterious nostalgic undertones, to be followed by the single "From the Heart," which features the extraordinary participation of Brooklyn lyricist Awon, a mainstay of American jazzrap, who fits in perfectly with Koralle's eclectic sound world.
Finally, the fourth track, 'Come Back to Me Baby,' is a homage to the blues and black music roots of the 1950s, an invitation to rewind the tape and listen to the album all over again.
The EP is enriched by the art of Bernardo "Beerbo" Raspanti: a brightly coloured and variegated coral that tells of the different influences that come together in the artist's work and of a profound and engaging musical experience that will enchant connoisseurs and fans of the noble art of beatmaking.
Authenticity is important in music culture, at least to those whose relationship with it is a lifelong love affair. As listeners, we instinctively respond to artists whose musical output is an authentic representation of their inspirations, experiences and working methods.
By any measure, Guillaume Metenier’s collaborative Soul Sugar project oozes authenticity. It began in the late 2000s as an outlet for the virtuoso organist and producer’s updated takes on ‘60s and ‘70s soul-jazz and Hammond funk, but over the years it has evolved into something entirely different: a vehicle for classic dub and reggae inspired musical fusions made in collaboration with friends and like-minded musicians. As a result, Soul Sugar albums mix impressive musicianship with great grooves and untold nods to the sounds and artists that have helped shape Metenier’s musical outlook.
This authentic approach and soul-enriching sound is naturally in evidence on Soul Sugar’s firth studio set, Just a Little Talk, which is set to be released by Metenier’s own Gee Recordings label in March 2024. This time round, Metenier’s close circle of musical collaborators includes Blundetto, Samuel Isoard, Yvo Abadi, Jolly Joseph, Jahno, Shniece, Slikk Tim and Leo Carmichael. While many are old friends who have appeared on previous albums and singles, there are some first-time collaborators too.
This familiar-but-also-fresh approach is mirrored by the blend of tracks on offer on Just a Little Talk. New songs and instrumentals sit side by side with a small selection of on-point cover versions – something Metenier has been doing since the inclusion of Jimmy Smith and Dr Lonnie Smith covers on 2009 debut album Nothing But The Truth. Memorable covers since have included ‘Why Can’t We Live Together’, ‘I Want You’ and ‘Never Too Much’, all featuring the honeyed voice of Leo Carmichael.
This time round, the headline-grabbing covers are undeniably special. You’ll find takes on Curtis Mayfield’s ‘Makings Of You’, re-framed as a languid roots reggae song featuring voiced by the returning Carmichael, and Donald Byrd’s ‘Blackbyrd’, which Metenier has brilliantly re-imagined as a fabulous fusion of Studio One dub and Blaxploitation funk.
Yet it’s the album’s original compositions that arguably stand out. For proof, check lovers rock-influenced reggae-soul treat ‘The End of Your World’ (featuring heart-aching roots style lyrics and Junior Murvin-esque lead vocals by Jolly Joseph), the similarly conscious ‘Just a Little Talk’ and recent single ‘Top of My List’– an effortlessly emotive gem marked out by Metenier’s weighty dub bassline and Shniece’s incredible lead vocal.
The original instrumentals, in which Metenier often trades licks and solos with guitarists Slick Tim and Samuel Isoard, are similarly impressive – and, to return to our theme, as authentic as they come. Fittingly, one of these – ‘Tubby’s Ghost’ – was originally written and recorded in 1998 with bassist Patrick Bylebyl, who was then Metenier’s partner in a project called Seven Dub. It is, then, a new cover of one of Metenier’s own tunes – and a pleasingly heavyweight one at that. It delivers a genuinely pleasing conclusion to Soul Sugar’s most true and authentic album to date.
15 years after their last album of original music, the Robinson Brothers present ‘Happiness Bastards’- their 10th studio album. Some may say the project has been several tumultuous years in the making, but we argue it's arriving at just the right time. Call it brotherly love or music destiny that brought them back together, the highly anticipated record consecrating the reunion of this legendary band just may be the thing that saves rock & roll. In a time where the art form is buried beneath the corporate sheen of its successors, The Black Crowes are biting back with the angst of words left unsaid penned on paper and electrified by guitar strings, revealing stripped, bare-boned rock & roll. No gloss, no glitter, just rhythm and blues at it's very best - gritty, loud, and in your face.
Since The Black Crowes reunited in 2019, they've made a triumphant return to form with over 150 shows spanning 20 countries worldwide, celebrating the 30th anniversary of ‘Shake Your Money Maker’, the album that put them on the map. Upon their return from the road, they knew they needed something new to show for their lost time. The Robinson Brothers and longtime bassist Sven Pipien headed to the studio with producer Jay Joyce in early 2023 and the experiences of years past transcribed themself through the music as the band found their way back to their roots. And it's finally here!
Brazilian producer and DJ Pedro Bertho, now based in France and an active member of Lyon's electronic music scene, releases his first EP on Cracki Records.
With "Mêlé", he attempts to translate what it feels like to be a black, Brazilian man living in France in the 21st century.
A complex patchwork of experiences, accents and heritages that he translates on this powerful record, mixing baile funk, house, electro or acid house, sprinkled with TR-808 and iPhone recordings.
The mix extends to the remixes, with Brazilian underground queen Badsista signing a hard-hitting version of "Jour 4", while Chilean Alejandro Paz tackles the bouncy "3333".
- Star Trek: The Next Generation-Main Title
- Stardate
- Troi Senses
- Picard‘s Plan
- First Chase
- First Chase (Part 2)
- Detaching
- Separation
- Shaken
- Court Time
- There Goes Da Judge
- U.s.s. Hood
- On Manual
- The Next Generation-End Credit
- Personal Log
- Admiral
- Old Lovers
- Caverns
- Splashing
- The Woods
- Memories
- Scanned
- Big Guns
- Unknown
- Departure
- Main Title-Version #2 (Alternate M.t.)
- Revealed
- Reaching Out
„Star Trek: The Next Generation“, the soundtrack composed by Dennis McCarthy, now available on vinyl. This exclusive vinyl edition brings the iconic music of the acclaimed sci-fi series directly to your home, delivering an authentic and aweinspiring sonic experience. This exclusive vinyl edition is a must-have for all Star Trek fans and vinyl enthusiasts.
Featuring stunning cover artwork and a limited number of copies, this LP is sure to be a highly coveted collector‘s item. Get your copy of Star Trek: The Next Generation - Original Soundtrack on vinyl now, and let the power of music take you into the vastness of space!
Of the countless accolades and analyses that surround Blue, no point is more significant than the fact that the 1971 Joni Mitchell album continues to become more popular, revered, referenced, and relevant with each passing day. Such vitality is not only extremely singular; it is the ultimate measure of great art and, in the context of Blue, indisputable proof of the record's accessibility, integrity, and timelessness. If the most brilliant and everlasting music seeks to find truths shared by all of humanity, Blue can be said to be universal doctrine.
Sourced from the original analogue master tapes, pressed on MoFi SuperVinyl, and strictly limited to 12,000 numbered copies, Mobile Fidelity's UltraDisc One-Step 180g 45RPM 2LP box set presents the landmark album with reference-grade detail, tonality, and directness. Marking the first time the beloved LP has received audiophile-quality treatment, it's one of six iconic 1970s Mitchell records Mobile Fidelity is reissuing on definitive-sounding vinyl and SACD sets.
Everything about Blue sounds more intimate, involving, and inescapable on this transparent pressing, which benefits from a virtually non-existent noise floor and superior groove definition. Mitchell's voice, positioned front and center, and primarily accompanied by minimalist acoustic guitar, piano, and dulcimer playing, comes across clearly and prominently. Suspended notes and radiant chords double as question marks, commas, and phrases. The in-the-room presence and spatial dimensionality make absolute the full-range spectrum of introspective emotions — hurt and distress, self-awareness and joy, difficulty and uncertainty, warmth and desire — Mitchell navigates, queries, and contemplates throughout the record. The defencelessness the singer once spoke about is laid bare here like never before.
The packaging of the Blue UD1S set complements its distinguished status. Housed in a deluxe box, both LPs come in special foil-stamped jackets with faithful-to-the-original graphics that illuminate the splendor of the recording. This UD1S reissue exists as a curatorial artifact for listeners who prize sound quality and production, and who desire to engage themselves in everything involved with the album, including the unforgettable cover photograph of a ruminative Mitchell shot by Tim Considine.
Deemed the third Greatest Album of All Time by Rolling Stone; universally celebrated by critics, fans, artists, and educators; and defined by a spell of disarmingly vulnerable songs that are at once confessional, intense, spare, honest, painful, hopeful, and exquisite, Blue charts love, spiritualism, independence, and loss like no record before or since. Widely considered the album that established the singer-songwriter template, the largely autobiographical LP changed everything shortly after its original release in June 1971. Amazingly, it continues to do so more than five decades later.
An incalculable influence on generations of artists, it stands as the through-line from Carole King, Elton John, James Taylor, Joan Armatrading, and Leonard Cohen to Patti Smith, Carly Simon, Emmylou Harris, and Rosanne Cash to 21st century contemporaries like Brandi Carlile, Taylor Swift, Sharon Van Etten, and Courtney Barnett. Teetering between agony and optimism, it is — to borrow a phrase from Mitchell's eternal "A Case of You" — a bottomless "box of paints."
The beauty of the stripped-down arrangements, intoxicating melodies, and Mitchell's wisdom on Blue didn't go unnoticed. Critical acclaim, coupled with the depth of the material and Mitchell's reputation, propelled the album into the Top 20 in the U.S. and Top 10 in the U.K. Yet while so much pop music diminishes with age, Blue has defied norms and headed in the opposite direction. Its 50th anniversary year witnessed an outpouring of tributes, reflections, and testimonials that helped frame the record's escalating importance and symbolism — apt in an age in which women have become the prominent trailblazers in rock, R&B, and hip-hop.
Perhaps most succinctly, in a 2021 article celebrating the LP, the Los Angeles Times declared: "In 1971, nothing sounded like Joni Mitchell's Blue. 50 years later, it's still a miracle." Nothing, indeed. Yet "miracle" suggests Blue partially owes to a divine agent or inexplicable circumstance. And though Mitchell's bracing conviction and forthright sincerity can appear otherworldly, her musical approach and lyrical storytelling is nothing if not personal and human. What we hear is pure truth — no matter how aching, complicated, or stark.
Much has been written about the circumstances that inspired the songs on Blue: Mitchell's romances; her time overseas; her disdain for celebrity; her lingering sense of loss at having given up her daughter for adoption; her treatment by the very same industry that her music made uncomfortable; her prolonged search for resolution. These situations and experiences pushed Mitchell to question everything — especially big-picture concepts that have always obsessed mankind: fulfilment, autonomy, love, honesty, being.
"I wanna make you feel free," Mitchell sings on the record-opening "All I Want." Mission accomplished. Blue is liberation — and the start of a freedom that continues to impact music, culture, and identity today.
More About Mobile Fidelity UltraDisc One-Step and Why It Is Superior
Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab's UltraDisc One-Step (UD1S) technique bypasses generational losses inherent to the traditional three-step plating process by removing two steps: the production of father and mother plates, which are created to yield numerous stampers from each lacquer that is cut. For UD1S plating, stampers (also called "converts") are made directly from the lacquers. Since each lacquer yields only one stamper, multiple lacquers need to be cut. Mobile Fidelity's UD1S process produces a final LP with the lowest-possible noise floor. The removal of two steps of the plating process also reveals musical details and dynamics that would otherwise be lost due to the standard multi-step process. With UD1S, every aspect of vinyl production is optimized to produce the best-sounding vinyl album available today.
Dire Straits never made a big to-do about its final run. In classic understated British fashion, the band simply let its music speak for itself. And how. Originally released in September 1991, On Every Street became the group's swan song – a lasting testament to the influence, musicianship, and integrity of an ensemble whose merit has never been tainted by cash-grab reunions or farewell treks. It remains an essential part of the Dire Straits catalog and a blueprint of the distinctive U.K. roots rock the collective played for its 15-year career.
Sourced from the original master tapes, housed in gatefold packaging, and pressed at RTI, Mobile Fidelity's 180g 45RPM 2LP set of On Every Street presents the album like it has always been meant to be experienced: in reference-grade audiophile sound. Recorded at AIR Studios in London and produced by Dire Straits leader Mark Knopfler, it features all of the band's sonic hallmarks – wide instrumental separation, visceral textures, seemingly limitless air, broad soundstages, atmospherics that you can almost reach out and feel. Each element is made more vibrant, physical, and lifelike on this collectible reissue, which marks the first time this 60-minute work has been available at 45RPM speed.
Afforded generous groove space and black backgrounds, the songs from On Every Street burst with nuanced details and vibrant colors. Dire Straits' playing appears to float, their intricate performances organized amid hypnotic, fluid, three-dimensional arrangements. Mobile Fidelity's definitive-sounding set also brings into transparent view Knopfler's finely sculpted guitar lines, expressive tones, and laid-back vocals – as well as the balanced accompaniment from his band mates. Here's a record on which you can hear the full blossom and decay of individual notes, and imagine the size and shape of the studio. It is in every regard a demonstration disc. And it happens to be filled with timeless fare.
Remarkably, On Every Street almost never came to light. Dire Straits initially dissolved in September 1988 after touring behind its blockbuster Brothers in Arms and suffering the departure of two members. At the time, Knopfler professed his desire to work on solo material; bassist John Illsley also explored side projects. But Knopfler's decision in 1989 to form the country-leaning Notting Hillbillies reignited a spark to reconvene his primary band and craft a fresh batch of songs. Six years removed from Brothers in Arms, Knopfler, Illsley, keyboardist Alan Clark, and keyboardist Guy Fletcher teamed with A-list session pros – steel guitarist Paul Franklin, percussionist Danny Cummings, saxophonist Chris White, guitarist Phil Palmer included – to create what still stands as an unforgettable farewell.
The platinum record brings the band full circle in that it returns Dire Straits to a quartet formation; finds the group refreshingly out of step with the era's prevailing trends; and sees Knopfler and Co. knocking out song after song with the deceptive ease of a punter tossing back a pint at a pub. That subtle cool, clever poise, and innate control – signature traits that no other band ever matched – dominate On Every Street. Knopfler's clean, virtuosic six-string escapades unfurl with dizzying melodicism and economical efficiency. Led by his winding fills and focused solos, Dire Straits traverse a hybrid landscape of rock, jazz, country, boogie, blues, and pop strains with near-faultless prowess.
More than any other entry in the group's oeuvre, On Every Street welcomes quick detours down back alleys and into the depths of human souls. What makes it more brilliant is its staunch refusal to cater to commercial expectations or take advantage of prior successes; every passage feels true, every measure echoed in the service of song. It's evident in the humorous satire of "Heavy Fuel," closeted desperation of the witty "Calling Elvis," and shake-and-bake bounce of "The Bug." It pours from the album's darker corners, as on the high-and-lonesome melancholy of the title track and bruised emotionalism of "When It Comes to You."
Hinting at the open-minded approaches and boundless curiosity he'd embrace as a solo artist, Knopfler doesn't limit himself when it comes to style or subject matter. Look no further than "You and Your Friend," a shuffle whose all-inclusive lyrics encourage an array of interpretative meanings. Another of the album's deep cuts, "Iron Hand," comes on as one of the band's most memorable moments – the narrative addressing the abuses of power at the 1984 Battle of Orgreave during the U.K. miners' strike. Given cinematic heft by the expert production, the true-fiction account puts into perspective the richness, poetry, and depth of On Every Street.
"Every victory has a taste that's bittersweet," sings Knopfler on the title track. At least that bittersweetness seldom sounded so damn good on record.
An avant-garde masterpiece, a vocal-instrumental suite, a work of collective improvisation, directly addressing the racial and political issues of it’s day, We Insist! Max Roach’s Freedom Now Suite is one of the most important artistic statements of Civil Rights Movement and one of the most groundbreaking jazz albums of all time. Max Roach was already almost a decade into his career as one of the most influential jazz drummers and composers when he teamed up with lyricist Oscar Brown Jr. to collaborate on a piece they planned to perform at the centennial of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1963. Recorded just months after the February 1960 Greensboro sit-ins, the album stands as an early musical testament to the burgeoning rage, anger and passion that would take the Civil Rights Movement from its early victory in Montgomery in 1955 into a future that would dramatically alter race relations in the United States. The second release from the newly launched New York City based jazz label Candid Records, and produced by label co-founder, famed music critic and social activist, Nat Hentoff, the album is a bold statement, focused on civil injustices in black history ranging from slavery to contemporary racial prejudices, and featuring some of the finest jazz musicians ever, including Abbey Lincoln, Coleman Hawkins, Eric Dolphy, Booker Little, and Michael Babatunde Olatunji. The five movements of the work are organized as a historical progression through African-American history, a shape similar to the one in Duke Ellington’s Black, Brown and Beige. The Freedom Now Suite moves from slavery to Emancipation Day to the contemporary civil-rights struggle and African independence. The LP includes extraordinary liner notes written by Hentoff himself, giving a context and insight that adds to the experience of hearing these magnificent performances.
Over atmospheric instrumentation expanded by cinematic structure and pacing, Pearlty presents Knifeplay somewhere between dream-pop influenced shoegaze and lofty slowcore, never fully committing to one or the other in its insistence on creating an immersive, organic world. Originally released in 2019, Knifeplay’s vivid debut Pearlty documents songwriter Tj Strohmer’s expressions of early adulthood in what he describes as “the journey from innocence to experience.” Written during a time of immense inspiration, Strohmer was able to peel himself away from detached nihilism, uncovering the physicality and therapeutic powers of songwriting. Newly emboldened by this discovery and the talented community surrounding him, Strohmer channeled this revelation into his work, taking Knifeplay from a bedroom experiment that merely wrote songs to a more substantial project with a purpose. Pearlty’s various climactic passages, like those heard on the impressionist album opener “Tears”, envelop listeners in textured walls of distorted guitar and noisy breakdowns, a distinct hallmark of shoegaze – but Knifeplay’s compositions go far beyond such conventions. Also featured are downtempo compositions – such as the tribute track “Angel” – that call on a range of influences, from grunge to lofi pop, all the way back to slowcore. Layers of Strohmer’s falsetto lilt adorn the songs with another dimension of sentimentality, while rounding out the sonic vastness of the group’s emotionally enrapturing style, lending impressive depth to the band’s debut full-length.
The vinyl is pressed in pink.
Ltd. Pink Coloured 180g Vinyl ( )
In 2005, an 18-year-old Raphael Gimenes left the sunny shores of Brazil behind, embarking on a journey to a distant and wintry land. "Dinamarca," the Portuguese name for Denmark, became his new home, where he has lived for almost two decades. Today, he presents his third album, a deep exploration of his life in Scandinavia. Rather than being a nationalistic tribute, "DINAMARCA" tells chapters from Gimenes" life story as a Brazilian living in the northern corners of the world. It guides us through the enchanting nordic woods, the vast fields stretching to the horizon, and the timeless sea resting beneath an endless sky. The melodies of blackbirds, the dances of red deer, and the whispers of ancient oaks form the backdrop for his musical stories. Within his songs, we experience moments of deep solitude and boundless inspiration, moments where reflection and creative passion intertwine. Gimenes skillfully turns the power of love into harmonies, dedicating songs to both his companion and his closest friends. Beyond these experiences, he leads us on journeys to Denmark"s neighboring lands, Norway and Sweden, where revelations and encounters with the mystical found their way into the lyrical fabric of his songs. The album"s orchestration includes Gimenes" vocals and the resonant chords of his classical guitar. Accompanying him throughout the album are Jan Kadereit"s multilayered percussion, and Lucas Delacroix"s bass synth, who also plays the electric guitar at times. The music further unfolds with the nuances of a string quartet, and a brass quintet, both recorded in the tropical highlands of Minas Gerais. Other guest musicians feature on individual songs, such as pianist Sebastian Macchi, flautist Flavia Huarachi, cellist Lucas Almeida, and singers Gaby Echevarria, Cecilia Pahl, and Cris Ferro. Gimenes has garnered acclaim and accolades across continents. His debut release, "Raphael Gimenes & As Montanhas de Som," delved deep into the rhythms and traditions of Brazil. It rose to prominence as the top Brazilian release in 2016 in Holland and was hailed as a "conceptual masterpiece" in Japan. His second album, "A Tongue Full of Suns," co-produced with Faroese multi-artist Teitur, ventured into the English language, blending Gimenes" inspirations from the world of prog-rock. Danish rock legend TimChristensen praised it as "top-shelf neo-folk," while Brazilian website80minutos described it as "hypnotizing." The music within "DINAMARCA" delves deep into the soul of a man who embraced a new land with open arms, while staying true to his roots. It unites elements from both of Gimenes" prior works, embarking on a journey across new musical horizons. The result is music that transcends borders, weaving itself into an intricately beautiful tapestry - a soul that has learned to harmonize with two worlds.




















