Back catalogue: 50s/60s

Review: Why Don't You Smile Now: Lou Reed at Pickwick Records 1964-65 offers a fascinating glimpse into Lou Reed's early work as a hired songwriter before his iconic days with the Velvet Underground. Released by Light in the Attic Records, this 25-song anthology captures the raw beginnings of Reed's journey in music. The double vinyl format showcases Reed's ability to navigate a range of styles, from the surf-infused doo-wop of the Hollywoods' 'Teardrop In The Sand' to the gritty garage-rock of the Roughnecks' 'You're Driving Me Insane.' This collection not only features Reed's contributions to Pickwick Records, a label known for its budget sound-alike recordings, but also includes the pivotal track 'The Ostrich,' a song that would eventually lead Reed to meet John Cale, laying the groundwork for the Velvet Underground. The anthology also highlights Reed's first collaboration with Cale on 'Why Don't You Smile,' which was later covered by Spiritualized. With detailed liner notes from Richie Unterberger and an essay by Lenny Kaye, this double vinyl release offers a deeper understanding of the roots of Reed's legendary career.

Review: Following the resounding success of the iconic 1957 compilation "My Pussy Belongs To Daddy," Ebalunga!!! proudly presents Girlesque, an exquisite solo album by the incomparable Faye Richmonde which was originally released in 1959. This gem once again captivates with its blend of genres and provocative song titles that all showcase Richmonde's sophistication, wit, and charm. Combining elements of pop, comedy, jazz, and erotic easy listening, Girlesque remains a popular choice for parties, much like its predecessor. With expert mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Jessica Thompson, this reissue not only preserves the album's relevance but also enhances its sonic brilliance, inviting you to indulge in another masterpiece of the past.

Review: The Rolling Stones put out plenty of albums full mostly of cover versions other favourite blues, soul and rhythm & blues tunes and this one, Out Of Our Heads, is one of them from 1986. It was a number two album in the UK charts but marked the band's first ever Billboard 200 number one (maybe because at the time only the American version contained their biggest ever tune, '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction'). Here the mono version gets reissued and contains songs made over a six month period including the top ten hit 'The Last Time.' Though these are covers, they are newly done in a guitar-based, thoroughly contemporary (at the time) style.