Review: Turn of the millennium wild child and poetic indie darling Peter Doherty hasn't released a solo album in nine years, but that all changes with Felt Better Alive on Strap Originals. It's a confident return from the playful guitarist and evocative lyricist with his usual penchant for idealised but real stories of life in Arcadia and plenty of signature melodic hooks all shining through. His guitars are often wistful and come with plenty of lovely strings, but there are more raw and jangling grooves like 'Pot Of Gold' and off-kilter pub sing-alongs like 'Ed Belly' making this a vivid listen for fans of the Libertines and Babyshambles man.
Review: First released in 2012, Broken Bones would serve as the 11th full-length studio effort from glam metal-tinged Los Angeles hard rockers Dokken. The first album in the band's entire tenure to not feature drummer Mick Brown due to scheduling conflicts (replaced for the recording sessions by studio drummer Jimmy DeGrasso), as well as their only work to feature bassist Sean McNabb (Quiet Riot, XYZ, Queensryche), the album served as follow up to 2008's Lightning Strikes Again while initially perceived as a swansong due to the major decade-long gap until 2023's Heaven Comes Down. Packed to the brim with triumphant riffage and soaring choruses, it may not entirely capture the Dokken magic of old but still delivers a retro-fitted 45 minutes of classic-style cuts with its standout track easily being their unique rendition of Jefferson Airplane's 'Today'. Reissued for Record Store Day 2025 on super cool and artwork complimentary blue & black splattered wax.
Review: New wave/synth pop artist Thomas Dolby is on extrovert mode here on his joyous, funky third studio album. Originally released in 1988, the album didn't fare particularly well commercially, at least compared to his 1982 hit 'She Blinded Me With Science', but the sheer inventiveness on display here makes it an underrated gem. The slap bass-laden single 'Hot Sauce' isn't shy in its use of light double entendre and when you think you have it pinned down musically, a Spaghetti Western interlude appears and there's a salsa outro. Elsewhere, on 'My Brain Is Like A Sieve' reggae and sophisti-pop collide to stunning effect and the tongue-in-cheek hit 'Airhead' shows off his David Bowie-esque pop baritone, whilst showering us in a stylistic stew.
B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition
Flying North (3:41)
Commercial Breakup (4:18)
Weightless (3:43)
Europa & The Pirate Twins (3:18)
Windpower (3:57)
The Wreck Of The Fairchild (3:34)
Airwaves (4:59)
Radio Silence (3:43)
Cloudburst At Shingle Street (5:30)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***
It might cost a bit more to manufacture but 180g vinyl is much more satisfying to hold. There's something in your brain that tells you weight correlates to quality and it's best to trust it. This decadent cut of silver vinyl is for the reissue of synth-pop legend Thomas Dolby's joyous masterpiece of a debut album (originally released in 1982). From the moment the first notes strike on the technopop opener 'Flying North', it's assured and makes you want to strap in for the long haul and when you do you're rewarded with eclectic leftfield hits, such as 'She Blinded Me With Science', which is so groovy and trippy it make you feel like you're strutting your stuff in the crowd on Top of the Pops in the 80s. It's an album that's up there with anything from the likes of Soft Cell, OMD or Gary Numan.
Review: Dom Salvador's 1969 album is pure Brazilian jazz magic. This piano maestro effortlessly fuses samba, bossa nova and hard bop into one smooth and moving groove. Tracks like 'Samba do Malandrinho' and 'Tio Macro' show off his slick chops and inventive style as he mixes tight rhythms with wild improvisation. It's a vivid trip to somewhere Brazilian heat meets American jazz cool. Fresh, funky and full of soul, Dom Salvador isn't just playing music here, he's rewriting the rules of jazz fusion, which is why this record is a classic of its genre and a vital reissue.
Review: Paper Can't Wrap Fire is the third album from Melbourne/Naarm multi-instrumentalist Don Glori, and it is a rich mix of jazz, soul, funk and R&B, but also marks a bold evolution in the artist's own songwriting. The title is based on a Chinese proverb about truth and underpins reflective tracks like the soulful 'Brown Eyes,' satirical 'Disaster,' and introspective 'Flicker' Recorded in Naarm with friends and past bandmates, these sparkling sounds are brimful of the sort of life-affirming harmonies and dynamic musical interplay that makes you smile broadly, while the heartfelt lyrics make this town mark. Influences from the likes Azymuth, SAULT, and Jordan Rakei are all clear, but Don Glori crafts his own take on those sounds that speaks to both emotion and intellect.
Review: The third album from Melbourne/Naarm multi-instrumentalist Don Glori merges jazz, soul, funk and r&b and marks a confident leap forward in his songwriting journey. Anchored by a Chinese proverb about truth, Paper Can't Wrap Fire explores themes of honesty and introspection across standout tracks like the silky 'Brown Eyes,' the sharp-witted 'Disaster' and the meditative 'Flicker.' It was recorded with close friends and longtime collaborators and radiates warmth, spontaneity and rich musical chemistry. While nodding to influences like Azymuth, SAULT, and Jordan Rakei, Don Glori delivers a sound entirely his own and it is wonderfully intimate.
Review: Lou Donaldson's Say It Loud! is a classic of the late 60s soul-jazz movement, combining infectious grooves with a lineup of skilled musicians. Released in 1969 on Blue Note, this album highlights California-based Donaldson's expertise on the alto saxophone, blending hard-swinging bebop roots with a funkier, dance-driven approach. The title track, inspired by James Brown's anthem, is a cool, laid-back rendition that shows his nuanced playing alongside the solid rhythms of trumpeter Blue Mitchell, guitarist Jimmy Ponder, organist Charles Earland, and drummer Leo Morris. The album shines with its extended tracks like 'Snake Bone' and 'Brother Soul', where the soloists stretch out, creating moments of tension and release. Ponder's blues-infused guitar solos and Earland's dramatic organ builds are standouts. While the bossa nova rendition of 'Summertime' and the swinging 'Caravan' bring a more traditional jazz feel, the album is most vibrant when it grooves hard. Despite being somewhat overshadowed by Donaldson's earlier work, Say It Loud! remains a highly enjoyable and essential part of his legacy. It may not carry the same weight as Midnight Creeper, but its infectious rhythms and tasteful solos ensure its place as a classic in soul-jazz, deserving of a greater appreciation which this reissue celebrates.
Review: Quem E Quem is widely regarded as Joao Donato's finest work and a standout in the canon of Brazilian popular music, aka MPB. Blending American soul and jazz-funk influences with the gentle sway of samba and bossa nova, the album radiates warmth and subtle sophistication and Donato's tender vocals are framed by breezy flute passages, laid-back piano lines and guitar solos reminiscent of Pat Metheny. The result is a beautifully balanced collection of upbeat tracks and introspective moments with each evoking the tranquil pleasure of a sunset in a tropical paradise. Timeless and effortlessly charming, it remains a high point in Donato's enduring career.
I Don't Want To Know (If You Don't Want Me) (CD 2: Gold Medal - 2004)
Friends Like Mine
Don't Break Me Down
Fall Behind Me
Is That All You've Got For Me
It's So Hard
The Gold Medal
Out Of My Hands
It Takes One To Know
Revolver
Have You No Pride
Lost & Found (Digital bonus track)
Hyperactive (CD 3: singles, B-sides & live - B Side)
Rock 'n' Roll Machine (B Side)
Mam's Boy (B Side)
Play My Game (B Side)
Don't Break Me Down (acoustic)
Fall Behind Me (alternate acoustic mix)
I Don't Want To Know (If You Don't Want Me) (alternate acoustic mix)
Done With You (B Side)
Too Bad About Your Girl (radio remix)
Dancing With Myself (Billy Idol Cover)
Please Don't Tease Me (New York Minute OST)
Do You Want To Hit It (live At The Paradise, Boston August 2nd, 2003)
Take Me To The Backseat
Hyperactive - Too Bad About Your Girl
All Messed Up
Take It Off
5 O'clock In The Morning
Who Invited You
On The Rocks (live XFM October 3rd, 2003)
Take It Off
Who Invited You
Review: After rising through the ranks of the local punk scene in Palto Alto, California, during the late 1990s, all-female outfit The Donnas were whisked to national (and international) superstardom via a deal with major label Atlantic Records. This retrospective looks back on that period of the now-dormant band's career, combing their two albums from the imprint (2002's Spend The Night and 2004's Gold Metal) with a disc of singles, B-sides, rarities and live takes. That means heaps of heavy riffs, vocals espousing suburban teenage angst and hooky choruses on discs one and two, with the third disc delivering an attractive mixture of raucous pop-punk, nods to metal (one of their major infuences, fact fans) and becalmed and cheery acoustic versions.
Review: Donovan's iconic 'Hurdy Gurdy Man' album gets the re-issue treatment here, and what a collection of music it still proves to be after so many years. The mix of folk and psychedelia is almost the epitome of the late 60s spirit of exploration, rebellion, generational dismay and hope. The hyper-memorable title track sets the tone with its swirling melodies, jangly guitars, and Scottish-born Donovan's strangely sinister vocal, which moves between dreamy and intense. Released in 1968, the album reflects the counterculture era, with lyrics that explore themes of mysticism and transformation. The rest of the album drifts between moments of whimsy and introspection, with tracks like 'The Sun is a Very Magic Fellow' and 'Peregrine' showcasing Donovan's ability to blend folk simplicity with psychedelic complexity. 'Hurdy Gurdy Man' remains an important snapshot of its era, holding up as a timeless piece of sonic adventuring.
Review: Among heads, this is of the most hotly championed hip-hop collab records of all time - and yet it is all too unknown. Doomstarks is the fabled collaboration of masked raconteur come rapper MF Doom and one of nine sonic samurai, Ghostface Killah (here known as Tony Starks); Swift & Changeable: The Prequel is their quick-wristed, mic-proximate debut mixtape, released in 2012. Just as some comic books series would prologue their main stories with pre-release strips, The Prologue served as the "unofficial" warm-up to accompany the pair's long-anticipated debut album of the same name. The Prequel hears some of Doom and Ghost's most popular tracks and collabs from various projects, including the original Doomstarks tune 'Vistory Laps'; the album provides a chopped but not screwed experience, playing out in the style of a gapless, scratch-heavy DJ mix.
Review: A fresh rarities compilation bound to open Doors for you. In the five years that it spans, The Doors forged a distinctive path through the countercultural explosion of the day, blending dark psychedelia with blues, jazz, and literary influences. Formed in LA, their breakthrough came with their 1967 debut, which included 'Light My Fire', catapulting them to national attention. Frontman Jim Morrison's brooding charisma and poetic lyricism quickly cut accord the band's identity, and easily matched Ray Manzarek's swirling organ lines. Albums like Strange Days and Waiting For The Sun followed, identifying ambitious songwriting, romanticism and existential dread. This rarities set draws from that fertile period, capturing raw broadcast versions of songs that defined a band both of, and far beyond, its time.
Review: Angus from Australian indie folksters Angus and Julia Stone has an unearthly beauty to his voice so we're always partial to checking out what he's turned his hand to. This is his fifth studio album under his moniker Dope Lemon and it follows his acclaimed 2023 album, Kimosabe. There's certainly an axis between 'Golden Wolf' and some of the early Angus and Julia Stone, but with more of a Killers-esque rock engine to it. Elsewhere, 'Electric Green Lambo' takes us on a detour through some funky, soulful grooves that would suit blazing a cigar in the Havana sun. And the sleek 'Sugarcat' has the strongest beat of the set and it's a guaranteed mood bump every time you hear it.
Review: While never lauded by the jazz establishment, enthusiastic fans of the style have long claimed that Kenny Dorham was one of the finest trumpeters of his generation - not to mention one of the true greats of the bebop era. He worked with all the greats and mentored Joe Henderson, who made one of his compositions, 'Blue Bossa', a bossa-jazz classic. This album showcases for the first time a near legendary concert performed by Dorham, alongside an all-star band, at the Blue Morocco Club in the Bronx, way back in 1967. It's an electrifying performance all told, with his interpretations of Miles Davis's 'the Theme', Charlie Parker's 'Confirmation', Milt Jackson's ' Bag's Groove' (here spun out to near 15 minutes) and his own 'Blue Bossa' standing out.
Review: There are some names that genuinely fill you with excitement the moment you even catch wind they've been back in the studio. Dorian Concept is one of them. Revisiting his collaborative project with the Swiss Museum for Electronic Music Instruments for a second outing on the OUS label he runs, the rather logically-titled Music From A Room Full of Synths was inspired by a ten day period in which the artist basically immersed himself in different noise-making machines. Coming out the other end determined to continue down the unplanned, unrehearsed, loose and spontaneous path, his collection was made off-the cuff, as it were, completely live and without sequencing or programming. As you would hope, then it's almost like nothing you've really heard before - jazz, electronica, downtempo, brass-stabbed, freeform, strange and stunning.
Review: Doseone teams up with New York prodder Steel Tipped Dove for a sharp-edged, forward-charging record, playing talents of both back at full voltage. After not quite finishing another ShrapKnel record, Doseone felt a creative jolt in the other direction, after which knife-tip moment he would reach out to fellow artists Dove and Fatboi Sharif. Such redirections often cause the creative process to loosen, and here was no exception, with APNC going from a stagnant entanglement to blistering rollout. Within weeks of receiving the first beat pack in late 2023, dose had recorded five tracks; and by Spring, the end was in sight. Though not typically down for guest spots, Dose called on a tight circle of kindred spirits - Open Mike Eagle, M.Sayyid, Billy Woods, Fatboi Sharif, Myka 9, and Andrew Broder on turntables - whom all lend the project extra scratchy, verbal dimensionalities. The result is a taut, unsentimental record that marries Dove's vivid, shape-shifting production with Doseone's most surgically precise writing in years.
Review: With Jimi Goodwin having retired from touring duties, this album takes on a whole new level of significance as it brings to question whether this album marks the end of the road for them as a unit. We certainly hope that it's just the beginning of a new era as they sound at the top of their game and reassert their reputation as one of the best British bands. The achingly beautiful 'Renegade' is right up there with their Lost Souls era and featured some stunning lyrics that tug at the heart strings: "As you walk out the door / Then your walking out, you're out forever." Meanwhile, 'Cold Dreaming' has an epic feel to it and is Leeds indie sorts The Music-esque - it's lush and orchestral with an epic chorus melody that will have you punching the air triumphantly. One to crank up on the car stereo and wind down the windows for definitely.
Review: 2025 is set to be a bountiful time for indie reunions. Oasis may be grabbing all the headlines, but Doves are a band that matter just as much. They're up there with the best to have ever come out of the north of England. Just reading the title of their biggest hit - 'There Goes The Fear' - and we bet you can't help but hum the melody. It's daring to try to follow a back catalogue as good as theirs with something new. Thankfully, this new album - their first in five years - is colossal and set to embolden their strong fanbase's already unwavering commitment. It's one of those where it's best to check your pulse if you're not gripped by their soaring guitar lines, marching drums and other lush embellishments that underpin Jimi Goodwin's - quite frankly - Godlike voice.
Review: Despite being across their new album, Doves lead singer Jimi Goodwin has reported that he has no intentions of joining the iconic Manchester indie band in promoting on their upcoming 2025 tour. So, the solution to this is to get this - their first album in five years - on orange vinyl and turn your living room into the main arena and let it sound like a Jimi Goodwin-led Doves are right there with you. The 'There Goes The Fear' hitmakers are on a winning streak with this latest release and the performance from the band is up there with their classic album The Last Broadcast so it would be a surprise if this doesn't become a number one. Expect an epic, sweeping wall of sound and Goodwin's vocals to give you goosebumps thanks to his emotionally-charged delivery and naturally great timbre, which is truly a gift from the gods.
Review: Vienna's Johannes Auvinen, aka Tin Man, and Mexico City's Gabo Barranco, aka AAAA, make up DOVS. Their second album together moves in the direction of retro aesthetics, harking back to a time where charting the "out-there" psychogeographic terrains of life might have been simpler. Billed as a "strictly ambient" affair - contrasting to their last collaborative record Silent Cities, and its dance focus - this quaint synth-driven LP is demonstrates how one might use melody and gear-born timbre to flesh out an open, point-blank theme. From allusions to architectural design to nature to the Islamic philosopher Rumi, this record is a soft-spoken yet eloquent dalliance with simplicity, inviting us listeners to step out into the open.
Review: This new album is Dowdelin's therapeutic best and one that delves into themes of depression, life's highs and lows and resilience. Along the way, it blends Caribbean rhythms with jazz, electronic music and percussive soul to make for an ever evolving and intriguing trip through moments of struggle and hope that mirror those in everyday life. Sung in Creole, French and English, each track weaves rich melodies with deep emotion and makes for a powerful exploration of mental well-being. Dowdelin's take on well crafted funk is where tradition meets modernity and the result is a sound that is both healing and invigorating.
Huey Smith Medley: High Blood Pressure/Don't You Just Know It/Well I'll Be John Brown
Little Liza Jane
Review: Originally released in 1972, Dr John's fifth album is an upfront tribute to his inimitable hometown of New Orleans. A collection of covers, tracks chosen from the almost-endless archives of classic blues, jazz and creole tracks that have come out of the Big Easy over the preceding century or so. It also marked something of a character and stylistic sidestep for the legendary Louisiana player. Building a cult following and rather unique reputation for his eccentric stage performances and often pretty left-of-the-middle songwriting and arrangements, by comparison Dr John's Gumbo plays it much straighter, making this an authentic and respectful tribute to rhythm and blues as it has long been played. That's no criticism - the same masterful musicianship remains very much intact, while the personality still shines through. Simply put, the songs have been done again and again, but this album could only be Dr John.
Review: Dr. Robert of British 80s pop hitmakers The Blow Monkeys and British folk icon Matt Deighton (Mother Earth, Bill Fay, Paul Weller) have formed a new duo and release their album on the not-for-profit Last Night From Glasgow label. Their respective histories - writing really accomplished pop songs and performing in bands with some of the best artists in the history of rock n' roll - raise expectations, but they absolutely smash them. The title-track is a beautiful marriage of pastoral psych folk and glam rock, where there's melodies to spare and affecting, deeply soulful timbres at every turn.
Review: If you're unfamiliar with Dr Robert, we recommend checking out The Blow Monkeys. Robert Howard, as he's credited, formed the iconic new wave and 'sophisti-pop' group in 1981 and his piano keys, bass notes, guitar melodies, vocals and words define the band's sizeable back catalogue. Matt Deighton, meanwhile, might mean Mother Earth, Bill Fay, or Paul Weller to some listeners. He's been involved with them all. Here, the esteemed UK musicians run into one another on Last Night From Glasgow, a treasure of a patron-funded, not-for-profit label out of Scotland's biggest city. It couldn't be a more credible and thoughtful combination. Musically, the result packs crazy levels of musicality, taking a lead from pop, soft, folk and psyche rock to produce a sound which moves between soaring to understated grandeur to deceptively complex and overtly intimate.
Review: This wonderful record marks Salvator Dragatto's debut full-length on Colemine Records and it was produced by Joey Reina with members of The Rugged Nuggets contributing to sounds which pay homage to Andre Kertesz, Robert Frank and Jean-Luc Godard. Inspired by parallels between film processing and music recording, Dragatto embraces imperfections like tape hiss and dusty EQ pots to create a rich, noir-inspired soundscape while blending drama, allure and sentimentality. Thoughts of You is a timeless reflection of love and obsession and will appeal to fans of the 60s and 70s French Noir scene, black-and-white photography and groups like Massive Attack.
Review: This wonderful record marks Salvator Dragatto's debut full-length on Colemine Records and it was produced by Joey Reina with members of The Rugged Nuggets contributing to sounds which pay homage to Andre Kertesz, Robert Frank and Jean-Luc Godard. Inspired by parallels between film processing and music recording, Dragatto embraces imperfections like tape hiss and dusty EQ pots to create a rich, noir-inspired soundscape while blending drama, allure and sentimentality. Thoughts of You is a timeless reflection of love and obsession and will appeal to fans of the 60s and 70s French Noir scene, black-and-white photography and groups like Massive Attack.
Review: The album stands as a bold testament to progressive metal, combining complex arrangements, heavy instrumentation and deeply introspective themes. The band's musicianship is in peak form, with the guitarist delivering stunning solos that blend intricate leads and rhythmic precision. The music oscillates between hard-hitting tracks and melodic ballads, with standout moments in songs like the aggressive 'Lie', the challenging 'The Mirror' and the emotional depth of 'Lifting Shadows off a Dream'. There are also reflective acoustic pieces and an instrumental, showcasing the band's versatility. Lyrically, the album explores existential themes with sharp, cynical undertones, while recurring musical motifs provide a sense of cohesion. The album is ambitious and complex, balancing heaviness with moments of subtlety, making it a rewarding experience for listeners who appreciate intricate compositions and raw emotional expression.
Trial Of Tears: I) It's Raining/II) Deep In Heaven/III) The Wasteland
Review: Dream Theater's 1997 recording finds the band balancing their complex progressive roots with a newfound accessibility. The intricate instrumental passages and shifting time signatures remain intact, but the melodies lean towards a more streamlined approach, offering a sharper focus on hooks and emotive delivery. There's an underlying tension between technical virtuosity and a desire to connect on a broader level, creating a record that feels as exploratory as it is deliberate. The production captures the weight and precision of their sound while adding a polished edge, making for a deeply layered yet approachable listen.
Review: Yet another addition to Rhino Records’ Start Your Ear Off Right series hears a reissue of prog metal band Dream Theater’s fifth studio album and first ever concept album. A sequel to the thrillingly titled Metropolis-Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper, this record builds an intensive recollective sonic theatre out of the mosaic themes of memory and depersonalisation. Themed around the subject of a young man undergoing past life regression therapy, the record is a compelling, initially psychotic howl into the night, and yet it proves an ultimately integrative, recursive experience, adding themes of murderousness and prophetic fate.
B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition
Scene One: Regression
Scene Two: I) Overture 1928
Scene Two: II) Strange Deja Vu
Scene Three: I) Through My Words
Scene Three: II) Fatal Tragedy
Scene Four: Beyond This Life
Scene Five: Through Her Eyes
Scene Six: Home
Scene Seven: I) The Dance Of Eternity
Scene Seven: II) One Last Time
Scene Eight: The Spirit Carries On
Scene Nine: Finally Free
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***
Yet another addition to Rhino Records’ Start Your Ear Off Right series hears a reissue of prog metal band Dream Theater’s fifth studio album and first ever concept album. A sequel to the thrillingly titled Metropolis-Part I: The Miracle and the Sleeper, this record builds an intensive recollective sonic theatre out of the mosaic themes of memory and depersonalisation. Themed around the subject of a young man undergoing past life regression therapy, the record is a compelling, initially psychotic howl into the night, and yet it proves an ultimately integrative, recursive experience, adding themes of murderousness and prophetic fate.
Review: Davon Bryant-Mason aka Dreamcastmoe finally makes his vinyl debut on Rhythm Section, years after the label first encountered him and his genre-smudging sound. Though it's the first official release between the artist and the Peckham imprint, their connection runs deep, stretching all the way back to a string of early underground pool hall sets at the now nonexistent Canavan's in South London. Introduced to RS founder Bradley Zero by DMV tastemakers Beautiful Swimmers, Dreamcastmoe's characteristic blend of hip house, lo-fi electronica and an echo of the DC go-go scene stood out to the gregariously locked tastemaker profusely. Now, in a full-circle moment, 'The Lost Tape Vol 3; surfaces as yet another end yield of years' worth of mutual admiration between label and artist, flaunting such affectively zoned bumps as 'At Molly's Request' and 'Flowers' with Nappynappa.
Review: Brian Auger's Streetnoise was originally recorded in 1969 with Julie Driscoll and The Trinity. It stands proud as a genre-blurring work of jazz, rock, folk and soul greatness that found the group moving beyond their r&b and jazz roots. Instead, Auger and Driscoll crafted a progressive, avant-garde yet deeply soulful record in which Driscoll's haunting vocals contrast beautifully with Auger's instrumentation. The gatefold sleeve was designed by Hunter S Thompson collaborator Ralph Steadman and was inspired by Hogarth's satirical etchings which in turn reflects the album's artistic ambition. Streetnoise features dynamic instrumentals like 'Ellis Island', great reinterpretations of 'All Blues' and 'Flesh Failures' and standout tracks such as 'Indian Rope Man' which highlight Auger's visionary fusion of styles.
B-STOCK: Box damaged, product in perfect working order
Days Of Graduation (LP1: Act I) (2:14)
Ronnie & Neil (4:50)
72 (This Highway's Mean) (5:15)
Dead, Drunk & Naked (4:52)
Guitar Man Upstairs (3:20)
The Southern Thing (5:09)
The Three Great Alabama Icons (7:14)
Wallace (3:22)
Zip City (5:18)
Let There Be Rock (LP2: Act II) (4:21)
Road Cases (2:46)
Women Without Whiskey (4:21)
Plastic Flowers On The Highway (5:07)
Cassie's Brother (4:59)
Life In The Factory (5:37)
Shut Up & Get On The Plane (3:44)
Greenville To Batton Rouge (4:11)
Angels & Fuselage (7:56)
Birmingham (LP3: Supplemental) (4:58)
Mystery Song (4:00)
Moved (4:12)
Don't Cockblock The Rock (live tracks) (4:16)
Zip City (5:08)
Road Cases (2:50)
72 (This Highway's Mean) (5:38)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Box damaged, product in perfect working order***
The deluxe edition of Drive-By Truckers' Southern Rock Opera is a welcomed new package for their standout album. Originally released in 2001, this ambitious double album delves into themes ranging from the politics of race to 1970s stadium rock, all through the lens of Southern rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd. New West Records' remixed and remastered edition elevates the album's sound quality, bringing clarity and depth to the intricate storytelling and powerful instrumentation. The resequenced tracks ensure a cohesive listening experience, maintaining the narrative flow while enhancing the album's sonic fidelity. The standout feature of this deluxe edition is the third disc, which includes multiple bonus tracks. Among them is the intriguing 'Mystery Song,' an impromptu recording discovered during the remixing process, adding a unique, spontaneous element to the collection. Additionally, tracks like 'Birmingham' and 'Moved' are thoughtfully integrated into the vinyl format, preserving the story's integrity while optimising sound quality. The special new edition, featuring a foil-stamped rigid slipcase and a 28-page book with spot gloss treatment, enhances the album's physical appeal.
Review: This demo sessions album is a real rarity - so if you were one of few to bag a copy first time round, you likely earned some jealous looks from fans. But since it's earned cult status as a jewel in their oeuvre through word of mouth, America's answer to Slowdive caved to popular opinion and made it more accessible with this first ever remaster job. This album takes it back to where it all began. Before signing to Caroline Records, Boston-based shoegazers took a leaf out of the punk DIY handbook and handed out this collection on cassette at gigs around London and posted it to labels. 4AD picked up on it and handed the cassette to the Melody Maker, where critics swooned and sparked a feeding frenzy for their signature. And for good reason: despite being less produced than their albums proper, the muddier mixes have a murky, hypnotic edge. Of the songs here 'Song For J.J.' is exhilarating with its unsettling, apocalyptic atmosphere. And 'Daymom' is the audio equivalent to being stood on a windswept Arctic tundra - dark, desolate beauty to its core. Many bands will come and do their best Drop Nineteens impression with the nu-gaze movement in full swing, but the 'Teens had something really special that can't be repeated.
B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition
Delaware (4:37)
Ease It Halen (3:48)
Winona (3:20)
Kick The Tragedy (6:30)
Baby Wonder's Gone (1:57)
Happen (3:05)
Reberrymemberer (3:39)
Angel (4:36)
My Aquarium (5:17)
(Plus Fish Dream) (5:23)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***
Drop Nineteens' album Delaware captures the essence of the shoegaze movement with its fuzzy guitars, serene harmonies, and dissonant melodies. While the band's sound draws comparisons to My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive, their lack of mainstream success can be attributed to the rise of grunge and bands like Smashing Pumpkins in the early 90s. The album has many moments of brilliance, such as the sprawling noise of 'Kick the Tragedy' and the catchy melodies of 'Madonna' and 'Happen.' However, some tracks fall flat with generic riffs and uninspired songwriting. Delaware includes strong vocal performances by Greg Ackell and Paula Kelley, particularly on tracks like 'Reberrymemberer.' Overall, Delaware is a very worthwhile listen for fans of the shoegaze movement or late 80s alternative/indie music.
Review: For anyone creative it can be difficult to resist the urge to share work that one's proud of publicly... to seek that instant gratification. Boston-based indie sorts Drop Nineteens, impressively, have held back these superb 1991 demos from official release for more than 30 years. They were originally sent out on cassette to labels who were keen to sign shoegaze bands after the success of Ride and Slowdive and it started a feeding frenzy. Caroline Records came out on top, snagging the US band's signature for their debut album. None of the songs from the demo tape made the album so now we're hearing them properly for the first time. It would have been a travesty if these never saw the light of day properly - it's some of the most affecting reverb-laden guitar music ever created. The tip of this fuzz-laden iceberg is the instant grat track 'Daymom', which is a swelling, darkly atmospheric triumph of a number that ramps up anticipation for what's to come. A must for anyone even remotely into shoegaze.
Review: Following the release of their cracking third full-length Blacked Out in 2024, Seattle punk n' rollers The Drowns revisit their origins with a reissue of 2018's much-adored debut LP View From The Bottom. Though hailing from the grunge capital of the world, the band bear more sonic similarities to folk-punk troubadours Dropkick Murphys than the type of icons who've worked with Seattle legend Jack Endino (Nirvana, Soundgarden, Murder City Devils) who handles remastering duties, beefing up anthems such as 'Eternal Debate' with extra snarl and soul. Complete with updated artwork offering a more artsy minimalist companion piece to the original, this version also comes with a newly added cover of 'Satyagraha', the opening cut from hardcore punk legends 7Seconds classic 1989 LP Soulforce Revolution.
Review: This release offers a fresh collection of Dub Syndicate 'versions', drawing on rhythms from their classic 1989-1996 period. Adrian Sherwood revisits the original tapes, applying his signature mixing desk magic to uncover new angles on the iconic pulse of drummer Lincoln Valentine "Style" Scott. The album features new dubs of tracks from albums like Time Boom X De Devil Dead and Stoned Immaculate, highlighting the enduring creative partnership between Sherwood and Scott. Fresh overdubs from Cyrus Richard of the Dub Asante Band add a modern twist to these timeless rhythms. As the fifth and final release in On-U Sound's Dub Syndicate reissue series, this album builds on the legacy of Ambience In Dub, which anthologised the group's earlier work. The tracks reflect the band's greatest popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when Scott emerged as a key force alongside Sherwood. The result is a fusion of Jamaican musicianship and UK studio experimentation that appealed to both ravers and reggae enthusiasts. This release serves as a fitting tribute to a legendary collaboration, continuing the story of a unique musical legacy.
Review: Originally released in 1993 and out of print for many years, this classic Dub Syndicate album is now reissued on the vital On-U. Drummer "Style" Scott and bassist "Flabba" Holt anchor the massive reggae riddims here while Adrian Sherwood delivers his signature production at the controls, twisting and contouring sound to melon melting effect. The album features standout guest appearances, including Lee "Scratch" Perry on 'Dubbing Psycho Thriller' and 'Dubaddisababa' as well as Michael Franti on 'No No.' The reissue brings this influential dub album back into the spotlight and is all the evidence that you need that Dub Syndicate are masters of their craft.
Review: Dub Syndicate's Ital Breakfast is a compelling exploration of dub and reggae, showcasing the band's evolution under the guidance of producer Adrian Sherwood. The album opens with 'Throw Down Your Gun,' setting a reflective tone with its deep bass and intricate rhythms. Tracks like 'The Jewel' and 'Gun Too Hot' delve into more experimental territories, blending traditional dub elements with innovative soundscapes. The title track, 'Ital Breakfast,' features a notable cameo by the legendary deejay I Roy, adding a unique flavor to the mix. The album concludes with 'The Captain's Trance Mission,' where Lee 'Scratch' Perry makes a surprise appearance, further enriching the project's depth. Overall, Ital Breakfast exemplifies Dub Syndicate's ability to fuse classic dub foundations with contemporary experimentation, resulting in a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
Throw Your Gun Down (CD:4 Ital Breakfast - 1996) (4:49)
The Corporation (5:39)
The Jewel (5:21)
Gun Too Hot (4:22)
No Lightweight Sound (4:04)
Ital Breakfast (4:06)
Japanese Record (4:14)
Jamacian Jig (4:07)
Natural Selection (3:57)
Above & Beyond
The Captain's Trance Mission
Plains Of Africa (CD:5 Obscured By version - 2025)
Alive & Burning Bright
Right Back To Your Soul
Stay Tuned
Pleasurezone Transmitter
Command Centre
Corporate Takeover
No Lightweight Here
Intercommunications
Review: The Dub Syndicate's later albums, rounding off their earlier box set, showcase the band's evolution in the late 1980s and 90s, marking their rise to prominence. With Style Scott stepping into the spotlight as bandleader and co-producer, the group's sound transformed, blending classic Jamaican musicianship with Adrian Sherwood's signature UK studio experimentation. This fusion created a series of albums that appealed to both ravers and dreads, combining dub's roots with experimental sounds. Included are: Strike The Balance (1989), followed by Stoned Immaculate (1991), Echomania (1993) and Ital Breakfast (1996), each album further refining the band's distinctive urban dub sound. The bonus album, Obscured By Version (2025), serves as a special treat, offering fresh versions of rhythms from this era. The Dub Syndicate remain legends in the genre, known for their bold use of sampling and raw, immersive dub that has influenced generations of listeners. This collection highlights their critical role in shaping the dub sound, cementing their place in music history.
Review: Strike the Balance is another standout Dub Syndicate set featuring vocal contributions from reggae legend Bim Sherman on a cover of Lloyd & Devon's 'Cuss Cuss' and Shara Nelson, whose work with Massive Attack on Blue Lines was soon to make her a household name, but here offers her rendition of Serge Gainsbourg's 'Je T'aime.' Released in 1989, this album marked a significant moment in the evolution of Dub Syndicate and coincided with the group's emergence as a touring unit. The album blends reggae, dub and experimental sounds into a distinctive, genre-defying style. A welcome reissue.
Review: Dub Syndicate's classic 1991 album was recorded in Jamaica and London and remains one of their most iconic releases. Featuring rock-solid rhythms from band leader Style Scott, it includes contributions from Skip McDonald on guitar, Lee "Scratch" Perry vocals and Akabu, Prince Far I samples. This album gained popularity with both acid house fans and dub enthusiasts as it was a post-rave favourite for back-to-yours smoking sessions. The title track is a mix of reggae, electronica, The Doors and Motown that remains unique and after being out of print for years, this reissue has been re-cut by Frank Merritt.
Blitzkrieg Bop (Jamrock Dub) (feat Susan Cadogan & Welton Irie)
Sheena Is A Rudie Now (Sheena Is A Punkrocker) (feat Alpheus & Ranking Joe)
I Wanna Be Sedated (feat Prince Ella & U Brown)
Do You Wanna Dance? (feat Sebastian Sturm & Ranking Joe)
Pet Sematary (feat Shniece & Horseman)
I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend (feat Keith & Tex, Dennis Alcapone)
The KKK Took My Baby Away (feat Jr Thomas & Ranking Joe)
I Believe In Miracles (feat Earl 16 & Oku Onuora)
Now I Wanna Sniff Some Glue (Featt Keith & Tex, U Brown)
Review: What if The Ramones had formed in Kingston, not New York? Swapping the raw energy of MC5 and The Stooges for the deep, echo-drenched sonics of King Tubby, their rebellious spirit would take on a whole new sound, one rooted in rocksteady and dub while keeping its punk urgency intact. Enter Dubmones, the latest project from the minds behind the 2008 album DubXanne (The Police in Dub). Reimagining Ramones classics through a dub filter, Dubmones In Dub transforms 'Blitzkrieg Bop', 'Sheena Is A Punk Rocker' and 'I Wanna Be Sedated' into a rocksteady-punk hybrid. A star lineup of vocalists - be they Dennis Alcapone, Keith & Tex, U Brown, Prince Alla, Earl 16, Ranking Joe and Susan Cadogan - brings said alt-history to life in full, bass-heavy glory.
Review: Divisive in a big way - with outcry in Mexico over national stereotypes and concern from the LGBTQIA+ community due to its portrayal of gender transition - nevertheless Emelia Perez made a massive impact in the movie world when it landed in August 2024. Now the second most nominated movie in Golden Globe history, it tells the story of a cartel boss who enlists a lawyer to help him disappear and transition into a woman. All of which is told in a musical style, with as many tongues in cheek on screen as there are dramatic moments. The soundtrack, then, is a combination of original score composed by Clement Ducol with French singer Camille, and numbers and speeches performed by the cast, which includes Selena Gomez, Mark Ivan, Zoe SaldaNa and Karla Sofia Gascon.
Review: This new anniversary edition from London's the Duke Spirit marks 20 years since their adrenaline-charged debut roared onto the UK indie scene. Originally released in 2005, it's now remastered and paired with a second LP of B-sides, demos and rarities, pressed on heavyweight yellow and red splatter vinyl. It's a suitably bold presentation for a record that remains as full-throttle and emotionally raw as ever. Built around the magnetic presence of vocalist Liela Moss and the jangling, distorted interplay between guitarists Luke Ford and Dan Higgins, this is a sound forged in post-punk grit and heavy rock swagger. Tracks like 'Lion Rip' and 'Love Is An Unfamiliar Name' still land with venom, but it's the depth and tension of songs like 'Fades The Sun' and 'Hello To The Floor' that show their full range. The bonus material only adds to the mythology i 'Boot Hill (demo)' and 'Scratching Around (demo)' offer glimpses of the band's early energy in the raw, while 'Souvenir' and 'Now Be Still' stand strong on their own. It's a beautiful document of a band at full force, and a reminder that sometimes the most exciting sounds are the ones that never tried to fit the moment.
Iancu Dumitrescu - "Movemur Et Sumus" (II + V - Pentru Fernando Grillo)
Octavian Nemescu - "Combinatii In Cercuri"
Stefan Niculescu - "Sincronie"
Corneliu Cezar - "Rota"
Review: A groundbreaking document of avant-garde music from Romania, originally released in 1981 under Ceaucescu's oppressive regime, that's grown in reputation enough over the years to now necessitate a reissue. This compilation, featuring Dumitrescu and three other visionary composersiOctavian Nemescu, Stefan Niculescu and Corneliu Cezaridefies both the political climate and conventional musical boundaries. Opening with Dumitrescu's 'Movemur Et Sumus', the album immediately plunges into uncharted sonic territory. Strings are transformed through radical processing, oscillating between shimmering abstraction and visceral intensity. Nemescu's 'Combinatii In Cercuri' marries intricate ensemble writing with electronic textures added in 1980, creating a circular, evolving soundscape. Niculescu's 'Sincronie' combines composed and improvisational elements, culminating in a hauntingly dramatic exploration of stasis and movement, with Dumitrescu contributing both piano and conducting. Finally, Cezar's 'Rota' blends Balkan and Romanian folk influences with startling electronic effects and prepared instruments, evoking natural sounds like wind and waves alongside experimental timbres. Recorded in a Bucharest radio studio against all odds, this album showcases the revolutionary potential of Dumitrescu's Ansamblul Hyperion, a daring chamber group he founded in 1976. Newly remastered from the original tapes, the reissue preserves the original cover art and reintroduces these boundary-pushing works to a global audience. With its fusion of spectralism, acousmatic exploration and Eastern traditions, this release remains as daring and relevant as ever.
Left & Right (feat Method Man & Redman - instrumental) (5:14)
Spanish Joint (instrumental) (3:35)
Sugah Momma (instrumental) (1:33)
Brown Sugar (instrumental) (3:08)
Me And Those Dreamin' Eyes Of Mine (instrumental) (4:07)
Cold World (interlude instrumental) (2:27)
Be Here (feat Raphael Saadiq - instrumental) (4:03)
Review: To commemorate the 20th anniversary of D'Angelo's iconic album Voodoo, Amerigo Gazaway had crafted a masterful tribute that reinterprets several standout tracks from the original. Utilising live instruments like electric guitar, synth bass, clavinet, organ and Rhodes, Gazaway breathes fresh life into these classic cuts while maintaining the essence of their grooves. The result is a woozy, silky update that melds elements of hip-hop, gospel, neo-soul and r&b, creating a rich tapestry of sound that honors the source material. With fourteen tracks, including both vocal and instrumental versions, this project captures the spirit of Voodoo while infusing it with new energy. A highlight of this release is the bonus track featuring Raphael Saadiq alongside D'Angelo on 'Be Here', which further emphasises the collaborative spirit of the genre. Gazaway's reimagining not only celebrates the timeless quality of Voodoo but also showcases his talent for blending classic sounds with contemporary influences, making this tribute a worthy addition to any music lover's collection.
Review: Former Soup Dragons man Hifi Sean (real name Sean Dickson) seems to have found a musical soulmate in David McAlmont. The pair have already impressed via a pair of well-regarded albums and here drop a third collaborative full-length - barely six months after its predecessor, Daylight, appeared in stores. Designed as a kind of flip side to that set - a loosely conceptual musical night drive from dusk 'til dawn - Twilight cannily combines slow, soft-touch grooves, dreamy textures, bubbly electronics, strobe-lit synths and McAlmont's honeyed vocals to great effect. The plentiful highlights include Blessed Madonna collaboration 'The Comedown', the tactile bliss of 'Goodbye Drama Queen', the huggable wooziness of 'High With You' and the heartfelt sweep of 'Star'.
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