Buscar:real tone records

Glasgow’s Cloth announce their return with new music by way of a four-track EP and their first release for their new label Rock Action Records. ‘Lucid’ is resplendent yet brooding, offering airy dream-like, haunting vocals over dark guitar riffs and resonating percussion - a perfect moment of minimal alternative rock.

Guitarist Paul Swinton says, “It was the first song we wrote for the EP and it felt like it set a tone for where we should go with the other songs - somewhere darker and bigger. The song is about being wrapped up in a situation you feel you have no control over then realising you do have the ability and agency to change things for the better.” Ice blue coloured 12” vinyl with digital download code. For fans of The xx, Cocteau Twins, Beach House and War Paint.

This album represents a significant evolution in the musical journey of Nick Viola, transitioning from the powernoise and heavy industrial sounds of his previous project, Fractured Transmission, into a techno-framed landscape. Spanning seven tracks, including remixes, the album features recurring sounds sourced from machinery, field recordings, and personal travels. These elements create an uneasy atmosphere oscillating between slight discomfort and absolute dread, offering a dystopian sonic experience fitting for the times we unfortunately live in.

The opening track, ‘A Ghost in Your World,’ sets an intense tone with distorted atmospheres and ‘It’s Still Real’ follows with a relentless pulse and swirling mechanical sounds, seamlessly flowing into Kenny Campbell’s remix of ‘A Ghost In Your World’, providing a cathartic release for the A side.

‘Drop Out,’ guides listeners on a psychedelic journey into the B side of the record, while ‘Negative Nancy’ ramps up the energy with an aggressive industrial techno assault offering an antagonistic jab at the current trend within the genre. Substencia’s remix of “Drop Out” delves deeper into psychedelia, offering an immersive trance-like experience relieving the tension of “Negative Nancy”.

The digital-only bonus track, ‘Tensor,’ maintains the album’s heavy industrial techno feel of a well-oiled machine, ready to pummel any underground sound system.

About Artist:
Nick Viola is a versatile electronic music producer known for his distinctive blend of industrial and techno music, drawing inspiration from a wide range of influences spanning from the gritty sounds of powernoise to the pulsating energy of techno.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nick began his musical journey immersed in the industrial club scene, where he cut his teeth performing at the legendary Los Angeles industrial club Das Bunker. Here, he honed his craft and developed a deep appreciation for the raw, aggressive textures of industrial music. As the driving force behind the project Fractured Transmission, he made a name for himself with his uncompromising approach to power and rhythmic noise, earning recognition for his intense live performances and relentless sonic assaults.

However, Nick was always drawn to the rhythms and sounds of techno, and in a bold move, he embarked on a new chapter in his musical career, transitioning from the abrasive sounds and rhythms of powernoise to recontextualizing those sounds into a more techno landscape. With this album, “A Ghost In your World”, he showcases his evolution as an artist, seamlessly blending the industrial aesthetics of his past with the pulsating energy and frame of techno.

Spanning six tracks, “A Ghost In Your World” is a sonic journey through dark, dystopian landscapes and pulsating dance floors, where distorted atmospheres and mechanical rhythms collide to create a mesmerizing and immersive experience. From the haunting textures of “A Ghost in Your World” to the relentless energy of “Negative Nancy,” each track offers a unique glimpse into Nick’s sonic universe, inviting listeners to explore new depths with each listen.

Written + Produced by: Nick Viola

Mastered by: Tim Vitek

Artwork: Permian Designs

Design by: Elaine Stam

repressed !

With this Ep for Mother Tongue Gerald Mitchell really shows what Soul is all about. The first Los Hermanos Ep on vinyl in over a decade brings it back to Church and then some! From the Gospel tones of the dancefloor smasher 'Another Day', to the electric techno-jazz of 'Binary Funk Infusion' featuring Bob Rogue think of Herbie's Dedication meeting Axis and finally closing and melting with 'Let Lot Live' featuring the incredible voice of Billy Love...it was definitely worth the wait.

Club U Nite Records presents a Split EP you don’t want to miss!

Two labels. One vinyl. Maximum vibes. Club U Nite Records (Cat. No. CUNT035) and Theory Of Swing come together for a split EP that’s dripping in deep, oldschool energy. Strictly for the heads, this limited-edition wax is pure heat – and it’s not gonna last long.

On the Theory Of Swing side, Italy’s rising DJ & Producer St. David sets the tone.
"Undagroov" is a secret weapon, ready to ignite any underground set with its deep female vocals and hypnotic house piano. It’s a straight-up vibe.
Follow it up with "Get On Dance" – a filthy swing groove with jazzy keys that keeps things raw and real. St. David doesn’t miss.

Flip to the Club U Nite side, and it’s all about Mellow Man.
"Club U Nite Is In The House" is a straight-up club slammer – dirty, heavy, and designed to make the system shake.
Then, Mellow closes things out with "Favourite Song" – another brilliant throwback to the golden era of house. Early ‘90s feels, soulful vox, and infectious piano riffs that will have the floor in a frenzy.

Don’t sleep on this one – this limited vinyl is flying fast!

Phooka also known as Francesco Maddalena, is the co-founder of Concrete with Maurizio Cascella and is a respected producer who has released on his own label as well as listing appearances on Diffuse Reality, Warok Music and Blackwater

Remix duty welcomes Sweden's Anthony Linell, the renowned Northern Electronics label boss that features most of his original music, but he can also be found collaborating with Adiel on Danza Tribale, or remixing Tensal to Amotik for example. Under the significant Abdulla Rashim moniker, his tracks have also been released on top projects such as Prologue to Svreca's Semantica.

The second remixer included in the release is Plants Army Revolver, a notable duo from Italy who have released on Shifted's Avian, Mental Modern, Sense Code and HomeMadeZucchero.

The first track is Anthony Linell's remix of "False Flag" that uses a stuttering kick drum to create an abstract vibe and is met haunting tones and metallic percussion.

The "False Flag" original has a patient yet regimented rhythm from a thundering kick and warm, pulsing sub bass to showcase an interesting dystopian aesthetic.

Remixing "The Rug Pull," Plants Army Revolver harness a throwback, looping, tribal sound with dub techno influences and mesmerising hypnotic elements.

Track four sees "The Rug Pull" and its original abstract idea. Using sparse beats with congas and shakers amidst harmonic drones and other shimmering effects, it creates a unique sound tapestry experience.

Tanukichan, the musical project of Oakland, CA’s Hannah van Loon, has been a prominent figure in modern shoegaze music since 2016, when she first collaborated with Chaz Bear of Toro y Moi. Together, they released an EP and two full-length albums under Bear's Company Records, culminating in 2023's GIZMO. With her new EP Circles, out September 20th, 2024, via Carpark Records, van Loon ventures into new territory by teaming up with a new producer for the first time – Franco Reid.

The genesis of their partnership dates back to the GIZMO campaign, when Reid noticed van Loon wearing an Incubus shirt in a press photo on Instagram. Intrigued by whether or not van Loon was a genuine fan, he sent her a DM. Their shared musical interest sparked a dialogue that eventually led to the creation of the single "NPC" in 2023.

Lead single “City Bus,” offers a reflection on van Loon's childhood bus rides in San Francisco, evoking the stop-and-go rhythm of commuter life through hard-hitting drums and heavy guitar feedback phasing in and out of the mix. Themes of self-reflection and societal belonging permeate the track, echoing van Loon's ongoing personal journey.

While much of Circles delves into internal struggles, “It Gets Easier” takes on a more celebratory tone as van Loon realizes she’s developed a heightened sense of maturity when dealing with hardship. “It feels easier to let go of situations or people that don’t serve me,” reflects van Loon, “Or if they can’t be avoided, at least I don’t have to dwell on the sadness or discomfort I feel when letting someone down.” Introduced by Reid, nu-gaze sensation Wisp, contributes a verse in her similarly ethereal vocal style.

There is a notable shift on Circles when you consider the first three Tanukichan releases were produced by a pioneer of the chillwave genre. With van Loon’s consistently dreamy songwriting and Reid at the helm, Tanukichan enters new sonic territory that feels larger, arena-ready, and more like a highspeed night drive than the hazy summer dream of its predecessors.

Modbox returns with a fresh release on his own label, Castanea Records, delivering the Cosmic Wind EP. This release moves through the realms of tech house, acid, neo trance, and broken beat, creating a textured sound that reflects Modbox’s forward-thinking approach to electronic music.

The EP opens with'Cosmic Wind,' where atmospheric layers float over a steady groove, setting a hypnotic, introspective tone. 'Acid Galaxy' follows, bringing sharp acid lines and raw energy to the forefront, offering a punchy, floor-focused experience.

On the B-side, Arno reworks 'Acid Galaxy' into a deeper, more hypnotic journey, adding subtle shifts in rhythm and expanding the track’s immersive qualities. 'Flow' rounds out the release with its broken beat structure, delivering a refreshing change in pace and a more experimental, layered vibe.

The Cosmic Wind EP showcases Modbox’s ability to blend rhythmic complexity with atmospheric depth, making it a versatile addition to any DJ’s collection.

Step into the realm of legends with « This Thing EP » by Lukas Lyrestam & Simoncino, featuring the iconic voice of Robert Owens—a true gem on vinyl. This release brings together the visionary talents of rising stars Lukas Lyrestam and Simoncino with the remix artistry of house music luminary Chez Damier, crafting a blend of past and future that resonates with the magic of timeless house. The EP opens with « This Thing » a creation by Lyrestam & Simoncino, elevated by Robert Owens’ soulful vocals that weave effortlessly into the groove, setting the tone for a transcendent sonic journey. Chez Damier, one of the genre's most revered figures, takes the reins with a masterful remix that transforms « This Thing » into something even greater, infusing his deep and emotive style to further enrich the track's essence.

« This Thing EP » is more than a release; it's a celebration of house music’s enduring legacy, uniting legends across generations. Available in limited edition on Skylax Records, this vinyl is a must-have for true aficionados. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of house history secure your copy and join the legacy.

DJ support: Tim Sweeney, Make A Dance, Parris, Pleasure Voyage, Camillo Miranda

Back yard - Back yard is the first single from the new Teen Daze album, Elegant rhythms, and features singer-songwriter Andy Shauf on drums, and LA jazz staple, Sam Wilkes, on bass. This is a stark change in sound for Teen Daze, who’s last album Interior was an exploration of neon-lit House music. Back yard is a mellow groover, conjuring up images of Laurel Canyon in the 70s, yet still with its flourishes of contemporary sounds.

We’re out of phase again - We’re out of phase again is another vulnerable glimpse into the inner world of Teen Daze, and marks the release of his most personal album to date, Elegant rhythms. In contrast to the synthesized, digital world of his prior album, Interior, here we’ve been brought into a lush, organic arrangement, brought to you in large part to the stunning bass playing by Sam Wilkes. While the verses pulse forward, the chorus slows things down, and evokes the sophisti-pop sounds of The Blue Nile. This track is a stunning showcase of the world of Elegant rhythms.

Nothing’s gonna change my love - Teen Daze returns with his second single of the year, Nothing’s gonna change my love. The stark change in sound, as heard on previous single Back yard, is on display here again: a smouldering, 2 and a half minutes of slow jazz-pop, indebted to the great Sade, or perhaps the feeling of leaving downtown LA at 2 AM. Lyrically, we hear a story of a love, challenged by the unpredictable nature of our lives. This may be Teen Daze’s smoothest song to date.

Neighbourhood - Neighbourhood is the third single from the recently announced LP from Teen Daze, Elegant Rhythms. Along with Andy Shauf on the drums, and Sam Wilkes on the bass, Teen Daze gives us a languid tour of his quiet neighbourhood. The sun has set on the pleasant, tree-lined streets, and a stranger, more surreal environment presents itself. The song plods forward at an extremely comfortable pace, held down by the paradoxically loose-yet-tight rhythm section. Lyrically, we walk around the Neighbourhood at night, and while the chorus reveals a type of sobriety, the vibe of the song makes it easy to feel a little…effected.

Fade away - Fade away sets the tone for Elegant Rhythm’s side B: a deeply personal, though somewhat veiled, confession of loss. How does it feel to grieve something that was never really here? A smouldering, slowly progressing first half erupts in synthetic noise, and then fades into the ether with it’s repeating refrain, “I can feel you / feel you fade away / when there’s nothing / nothing left to say”.

Fall ahead - A sweet piano tune which serves as a quiet break in the record, intended to help the listener reflect and take a moment of pause before we reach the final two songs on the album.

HST underwater - The penultimate track on the record tells a story where the narrator finds themself in an alien, yet oddly familiar place. Arpeggios soaked in crystal blue water flow through the stereo field, while the narrator, vocoded and drenched in autotune, searches for meaning and purpose in a confusing world. This is one of Teen Daze’s most cinematic, emotional songs yet.

In the rain - It’s never really made explicitly clear on this record, but a lot of these songs find Teen Daze wrestling with life as a new father, and this song, the final on the album, expresses the fears of generational trauma. A touching, tender ode to his children, we hear Teen Daze at his most personal and vulnerable. The falling rain surrounds some absolutely breathtaking bass playing from Sam Wilkes, and Teen Daze’s signature ambient keyboard sounds.

Radio Support: Ruf Dug (Soup To Nuts on NTS)

Chamber music masterpiece with electronics

Albert Alan Owen was born in Wales in 1948 to parents of Welsh and Latvian heritage. His family later moved to Zimbabwe, where his father took up a teaching position. There, Owen was deeply influenced by local music and culture, while also exploring American RnB and jazz. It was during this period that he became acutely aware of the harsh inequalities under British colonial rule, which instilled in him a lifelong aversion to discrimination and racism.
In 1967, Owen returned to Europe to pursue his studies and enrolled at the Royal Academy of Music in London. He went on to spend time in Paris, studying composition with the eminent Nadia Boulanger and piano under Jacques Février, a favorite pianist of Ravel’s and Poulenc’s. Owen's focus shifted almost entirely to composition, and the acquisition of a Fender Rhodes electric piano marked the beginning of a divorce from his classical Western training. This transition allowed him to merge his passion for African and African-American music with the impressionistic styles of Ravel and Debussy while exploring the innovative realm of electroacoustic composition.
These formative experiences framed Owen’s career as a composer and educator at the Royal Academy of Music and London’s Working Men’s College. He eventually returned to Wales, where he continues to reside.

In 1979, 29-year-old Albert Alan Owen released Keyboards & Strings, a light magical chamber music masterpiece.
Transcending the formal conventions of its era, Keyboard & Strings is an acoustic and electric piano piece, where the violin is met by synths and electronics.
As is often the case in Albert Alan Owen’s most intimate works, there is a sense of ethereal beauty that emerges from the music, akin to the emotional state one might experience while contemplating a Félix Vallotton landscape or the unfathomable mystery of dawn’s first light.
Quiet, profound, and immersive, Keyboard & Strings stands out as an electronic-age tone poem, a rare gem that transcends time and place.

Glasgow based Seated Records return with more 1980s Scottish Post-Punk / New Wave material. In this 8-track mini compilation the label introduces the work of Stirling band 22 Beaches, offering a deep dive into music recorded between 1980-1984 - the majority of which has never seen the light of day!

22 Beaches formed in Stirling in the late 1970s as an evolution of the short lived group ‘Alone at Last’ - drummer Fred Parson’s and guitarist Stephen Hunter being the two who spanned the divide. Out of the six members of 22 Beaches, many were school friends, and the rest naturally fell together. The band toured extensively and played at a truly diverse set of venues across the UK: from a local swimming pool boiler room, to small nightclubs and university parties, to several fundraisers for the miners strike. Maybe most notably of all, drummer Fred Parsons described playing at what he calls “the Grangemouth International”, organised by local promoter Brian Guthrie and which featured an all-star lineup of 22 Beaches, The Exploited and the first incarnation of The Cocteau Twins. A coach was hired to ship the audience to Grangemouth from Stirling, the cost of which was included in the ticket. The gig then paused halfway through for a 'help yourself' buffet. Young promoters take heed. This is how it's done!

Over the course of the 80s the band released music on three different, and now sought after, various artists compilation cassettes. “What Day Is It?” and “Sadie When She Died” were released on a compilation of local Stirling artists 'The A.N.K.L.E File'. The track from which the current record takes its namesake - “Dust” - was initially released on a compilation-tape for the fanzine 'Another Spark'. And ‘‘Zoo” (also featured on this record) was first released on Glasgow label Pleasantly Surprised via compilation, 'An Hour Of Eloquent Sounds', where 22 Beaches rubbed shoulders with early music from Scottish names Primal Scream, Cocteau Twins, The Wake and Sunset Gun. Unfortunately, 22 Beaches never met the same level of commercial success as these others and decided to retire the project in 1984 - leaving their recordings and demos to gather dust (hehe)…until now!

This compilation, “Dust: recordings 1980-1984” follows the band's journey and the changes in their sound over the years. It moves from the raw, punk energy of early DIY recordings through to the A Certain Ratio style Balearica of their later pieces. The record's opener and title track “Dust” is perhaps the most shining example of the latter. Characterised by the plenitude of sonic space in the mix, “Dust” has an almost dub sensibility that is communicated through centrality of Parsons’ drums, McChord’s percussion, and Fildes’ Bass while the harmonising vocals of Sharkey and McGregor chant over the top to give the track its distinctive psychedelic edge. This is an atmosphere only exacerbated by the lofi quality of the recording which sits the vocals in the same aural realm as much 1960s psych-folk. On “Cartoon Boy”, the band strips things down further. A droning bass line persists through the tape fuzz and is accompanied by the sounds of a sole looping guitar chord sequence and McGregor and Sharkey’s vocals - respectively and carefully dancing around one another before harmonising in the most beautiful way. The result is a haunting and abstract Marine Girls style heartbreaker. ‘That Girl’ again delivers a dub adjacent rhythm section similar to that of “Dust”. However, on this instance crisp guitar chords, a distant, phased organ and blue-eyed soul vocal delivery, produce a track that could easily have been a lost Orange Juice recording from their sessions with Dennis Bovel. On “Somebody Got It Wrong” and “One Of Us” the band employ a more macro approach where a jangling guitar with an almost highlife-influenced tone, vocal ad-libs and syncopated percussion give the music a Talking Heads-esque swagger.

Taken together these tracks illustrate a clear trajectory in the band's sound, moving from from the high energy no-wave quality of early recordings towards a more dub influenced, and stripped-back sound - a sonic trajectory followed by so many bands of the time, not least those emerging from the diaspora of Manchester’s Factory Records.

On “Breathing’’ we hear the beginning of this transition, with the strong influence of the oddball NYC disco styles of Was (Not Was) and ZE records. All of this is meshed together with the residual punk rock energy of 1980s UK. This combination is employed to excellent effect with the addition of the distinctly Scottish (and what the band confirmed to me to be spontaneous) vocal delivery of: “Do you love me? Do you want me?” “Aye!” “Do you love me? Do you need me?” “Naw!”.

On the record’s closing tracks, “Zoo” and “Talent Show”, we hear early examples of the band’s work, playing with their rawest all-in-one-take live energy where Hunter’s spiralling guitar riffs and McGregor's distorted vocal exclamations lead the charge. The band recalls that these initial-forays did not always translate so well into multitrack recording and overdubbing: “the deconstruction took away some of the band's natural feel”. On “Talent Show” the record ends with Sharkey delivering an almost unintelligible spoken word section over the top of the track, making for one final, disorientating, almost manic slice of post-punk.

These tracks from 1980-1984 chart the progress of a unique contribution to the world of Scottish Post-Punk and New Wave, encapsulating not only the musical trajectory of 22 Beaches but also echoing the broader sonic landscape of 1980s UK, a testament to the adaptability and creativity of the UK’s underground music of the time.

Syncrophone Proudly Presents the Latest Musical Revelation From Fred P, in the Form of the Three-Track Ep, “Preserving”. This Exquisite Collection, Available on a Mesmerizing Transparent Swamp Green Vinyl, Is Set to Captivate Hearts and Minds With Its Unique Blend of Sonic Exploration and Timeless Rhythms. “Preserving”is a Sonic Odyssey That Reaffirms Fred P's Position as a Pioneer in the Realm of Deep House. the Opening Track “The Sound Exchange” Sets the Tone for the Ep, Inviting Listeners to Partake in a Captivating Dialogue of Sound. With ‘Sonic Tour’, Embark on a Sonic Tour That Explores the Rich Textures and Ethereal Atmospheres Crafted by Fred P's Deft Hands. This Track Is a Testament to the Artist's Ability to Weave Emotive Chords and Subtle Percussion Into a Harmonious Blend, Leaving an Indelible Mark on the Musical Landscape. Concluding the Ep Is "The Kingdom," Fred P Showcases His Prowess, Fusing Artistic Creativity With Scientific Precision, Making This Track a Standout Addition to the Ep. “Preserving”is Not Just a Collection of Tracks; It's an Auditory Adventure That Invites Enthusiasts and Newcomers Alike to Delve Into the Heart of Deep House....

Mode_1 Reclaim EP by DIG Records

Cover // Augmented reality by Omer Avarkan


********************************AUGMENTED REALITY COVER ***********************************

After a stellar debut release in 2023, vinyl-only label Dust in Grooves, sees its anticipated second EP Reclaim, showcasing one of Dublin's gleaming underground talents Mode_1. Establishing DIG as a progressive sonic platform, founder Olivia Mendez is also curating a series of dynamic augmented reality covers for each EP. Adding more layers into the sound experience of the Reclaim vinyl is motion designer and visual artist Omer Avarkan.


Mode_1's dedication to uncovering layers of tough but rhythmic grooves, both as a DJ and a producer, has led him to make a mark on legendary techno imprints such as Knotweed, FiedelTwo, Truncate and Naked Lunch. Staying true to his advancing, dynamic sound laid with dexterous technique, Robert Kavanagh delivers a collection of four ominous tracks, pulsating with incandescent pads and pacey drums.


The EP opens with the relentless and driving Sigma, setting the tone for a swiftly moving ride across the record. With playful shifting of gears and jacking rhythms, the A2 flows into the next track Dusty Room, utilising the bleepy pitches in contrast to the expansive spheric tones, offering an energetic boost of a melodic techno work-out, with hints of sharp dub edges.


Reclaim on B1 highlights the versatility of Mode_1, comprising multi-layered scales, evolving spiral sounds and a build-up of reverberating tones that escalate with poise. As a closing track of the record, Platform 8 is one of those B2 sides that you keep reaching out to. This ultimate big-floor tool is loaded with advancing movement, keys with mystical undertones, and depth of texture that play with the infinite nature of the number eight.


Unlocking the animated cover of the EP and seeing it come to life virtually, adds a new dimension to the classic format of the vinyls. To unlock its motion, follow the riddle on the back.


All tracks mastered by Nihad Tule.


Words by Lora Mateeva, Orb Mag

Mit "New Blue Sun" veröffentlicht André 3000 ein unerwartetes, rein instrumentales Album, auf dem Andre Flöte spielt und von anderen talentierten Musikern begleitet wird. Auf dem von Andre 3000 und dem Multiinstrumentalisten Carlos Niño koproduzierten Album "New Blue Sun" spielen Nate Mercereau, Surya Botofasina, Deantoni Parks, Diego Gaeta, Matthewdavid, V.C.R., Diego Gaeta, Jesse Peterson und Mia Doi Todd.

Diese limitierte 3-LP-Vinylauflage ist auf 180 g schweres schwarzes Vinyl gepresst und verfügt über ein ausklappbares Poster, bedruckte Innenhüllen und eine Notiz des Künstlers.

Visions Recordings is delighted to have Detroit's Julion D'Angelo and Chicago's SPECTER on the same record after years of trying to work together. These two Detroit masters of the deepness have released records on some of the best labels around, including Sound Signature, Tone Log, Freedom School , Tetrode , Sistrum and more.
These two tracks are original deep zmusic to dance to, but also to dive into and listen to all the details, the complex programming, and the search for unique sounds. It's special and that's why we love it and want to keep promoting it. Real music!
We fell in love with these tracks as soon as we heard them, and we hope you will too. Visions aims to maintain a high and varied standard, and once again we try to present you with quality and profoundness. enjoy the ride.

Known principally as a smooth titan of blue-eyed soul, Bobby Caldwell transcended genre tags with consummate ease; he was a musical icon of real class and versatility, cherished the world over. Tragically passing away in March 2023 at the too young age of 71, it still feels as if Bobby's true artistry is profoundly under-appreciated. His double platinum self-titled album from 1978 is a timeless masterpiece of sophisticated jazzy soul brilliance and is strictly canonical. Yes, it's perfect, yet it's been out of press on vinyl for years. We're deeply honoured to present the long-awaited reissue this summer.

Whilst Ned Doheny is known in Japan as "Mr California", native New Yorker Bobby Caldwell has always been "Mr AOR" to his Far-Eastern friends. His distinct charm is an irresistible blend of soul, jazz, and pop influences. He possessed phenomenal songwriting prowess, smooth vocal performances, was both a great soul guitarist and dextrous keyboard player and known for genius chord progressions. It all added up to a multi-layered brilliance entering the studio, and the singular sound he landed on was laced with soulful, sweeping strings and funky horns, touching lightly on disco, while allowing his supple voice to carry the stunning tracks he'd crafted.

String-swept opener "Special To Me" immediately sets the tone with its lush instrumentation, rich harmonies, and Caldwell's velvety-smooth vocals. Next up, a huge one. The infectious, mid-tempo bounce of "My Flame" showcases Caldwell's ability to effortlessly blend catchy pop hooks with soulful arrangements. It's an exquisite, emotive ballad that, at the same time, absolutely SLAPS. Game recognise game, and all that, so, accordingly, Notorious B.I.G. memorably ran with “My Flame” for his 1997 single “Sky’s The Limit”. The rolling, disco-very "Love Won't Wait" is a slick, uptempo track containing heartfelt lyrics intertwined with elegant strings and a horn section to die for. Aching - and achingly cool - single "Can't Say Goodbye" is a real fan favourite, and it's no surprise. It's a laconic, slow-mo jazz-funk stepper, with fantastic, very deliberate playing that closes out the A Side quite exceptionally. "Come To Me" slows proceedings down elegantly to open Side B before the universally agreed-upon masterpiece enters proceedings.

"What You Won't Do for Love," the standout hit that became a classic in its own right, perfectly captured Bobby's ability to infuse a contagious groove with introspective and relatable lyrics. With its instantly recognisable horn riff and Caldwell's soulful delivery, this timeless, chiller anthem continues to captivate audiences and define his musical legacy. He scored huge with the track, taking over the pop and R&B airways with this mellow soul stepper. It has remained a perennial favourite and has been heavily sampled, such is its unique allure; Aaliyah sang over snatches of it on "Age Ain’t Nothing But A Number" and you can hear Caldwell’s vocal sample used for the hook on Tupac’s posthumously released “Do For Love”.

Upon submitting the finished album to his label, they requested more material in hope of a big single. As Bobby remembered to Wax Poetics a few years ago: “Now at this point, I’m mentally exhausted...and bear in mind that I got so close to all the songs I’d written. I gave each song a profound amount of thought, and maybe too much. So, in haste, I went in and cut this song, "What You Won’t Do For Love". Wrote it in a day, cut the rhythm track, overdubbed the horns, I sang the song, and literally turned it in three days after. And lo and behold, the one song I gave the least thought to,” Bobby laughed, “ended up being a national anthem.”

The mysterious, magical "Kalimba Song" is a cosmic, kalimba-driven melodic-funk instrumental - short but oh, so sweet. It's followed by the supreme tear-jerker "Take Me Back To Then", Bobby's otherworldly voice deeply longing for a simpler time, "when life was mellow". I think we can all get behind this sentiment. The final cut is arguably its deepest, its low-key finest moment. For us, it is, anyway. The glorious, driving, effortlessly funky guitar-soul jam "Down For The Third Time" is a huge melancholic Be With favourite and has been played by discerning genre-hopping DJs with significant glee for years. Hypnotic, melodic, beautiful. Like the album it elegantly rounds out.

Bobby sadly passed away on 23rd March 2023, after a long struggle with mitochondrial damage and oxidative stress, due to an adverse effect from a fluoroquinolone antibiotic. The reissue of his wonderful eponymous album will be available on vinyl across the globe, ensuring that fans of his incomparable talent - and soul music enthusiasts worldwide - can radiate in the deep beauty of this seminal album. Meticulously remastered and cut by both Simon Francis and Cicely Balston respectively, it has been pressed to the highest possibly quality at Record Industry in Holland.