Fighting For Your Life (Blood On The dance Floor remix) (5:58)
Fighting For Your Life (After Dark mix) (5:36)
Review: Lockdown Records has put together this useful new 12" which offers up the notorious duo of Matt Early & Lee Jeffries. 'Fighting for Your Life' is a classic pop single that comes with the electrifying Blood on the Dancefloor Mix and the sultry After Dark Mix, both of which are inspired by the iconic sounds of Michael Jackson. They make for effective dancefloor weapons that come with a hint of nostalgia and plenty of weighty grooves.
Justify My Love (Afteru remix instrumental) (5:38)
Justify My Love (Afteru Rmx radio edit) (3:01)
Review: Madonna has got an endless catalogue of bangers from across the eras and many different styles. We certainly think 'Justify My Love's one of the ones best suited to a club rework and so it proves here with Afters doing just that on Icons. First is an extended remix with some driving drums and sweeping synths layered in next to splashy cymbals while the instrumental dial things back and radio edit gets everything packed into a shorter run time for most impact.
Review: Madonna's 'Vogue,' now reissued on 12", remains a landmark in music history. Originally recorded in 1989 as a last-minute track, 'Vogue' became an unexpected hit, blending underground house music with references to Old Hollywood icons. The song's success was propelled by its iconic black-and-white music video, directed by David Fincher, which paid homage to fashion photography and featured choreography by the House of Extravaganza. Beyond its chart-topping success, 'Vogue' brought the Harlem ball scene and voguing culture into the mainstream, highlighting the creativity of marginalized African American and Latinx communities. While some critique Madonna for cultural appropriation, her efforts also promoted AIDS awareness and provided visibility for queer culture. Decades later, 'Vogue' endures as an anthem of self-expression and escapism, reflecting both the progress and ongoing struggles of the LGBTQ+ community.
Eh Eh (Nothing Else I Can Say) (Lovers Reggae mix) (3:44)
Review: Singer and actress SSW Mayu is mostly known for her roles in musicals and TV dramas, and delivers a fresh take on classic songs from the past. Her latest release is a 7" single on Jet Set Japan and comes from a compilation album by Cafe Music. It does a fine job of showcasing her versatile talent and her soulful voice and refined interpretation really shine as Mayu brings new life to timeless tracks while blending a hint of nostalgia with her unique signature style. This release highlights her ability to cross genres and create a soothing yet captivating musical experience, making it a standout addition to the Cafe Music compilation.
Review: To celebrate the 40th anniversary of George Michael's iconic hit 'Careless Whisper,' it is now releases as a single once again. The record features a previously unreleased live recording from his memorable Madison Square Garden concert on July 23, 2008. This performance marked his reunion with the New York audience after a 17-year hiatus, part of his monumental 25Live tour that captivated over 1.3 million fans worldwide. This special edition also includes newly mastered versions of the original single, extended mix and an instrumental. Written by George Michael and Wham! bandmate Andrew Ridgeley, it topped charts in 25 countries in 1984. It is certified 7x Platinum in the US and has sold over 1.5 million copies in the UK, with Platinum and Diamond certifications in 20 other countries. This timeless classic, written when Michael was just 17, continues to be celebrated for its masterful songwriting and enduring legacy.
Review: George Michael's timeless Careless Whisper is an iconic pop record which this year marks its 40th anniversary. It was released in 1984 and soon topped charts in 25 countries while also achieving multiple Platinum certifications globally. To celebrate the milestone, a limited edition Careless Whisper EP has been compiled and features all versions of the song in one exclusive release. This special 12" includes instrumental and extended mixes along with a previously unreleased live version recorded at Madison Square Garden, New York. It is an EP that reminds us of the late great Michael's skills and reworks the single in club ready format for DJs.
Careless Whisper (live From Madison Square Garden - previously unreleased) (5:32)
Careless Whisper (instrumental) (4:55)
Review: A unique edition of an iconic track. Originally released in 1984, Careless Whisper has subsequently solidified its place as a pop masterpiece, topping charts worldwide and earning multiple platinum certifications. This limited-edition EP is cut at 45rpm half-speed for extra clarity and features a remastered version of the original hit, an extended mix enhancing its sultry allure and an intriguing live performance of it from Madison Square Garden, adding a new dimension to the track's timeless appeal. The EP also includes an instrumental version, allowing fans to appreciate the lush production and unforgettable saxophone solo in its purest form.
Careless Whisper (live At Madison Square Garden, July 2008)
Careless Whisper (instrumental)
Review: George Michael's Careless Whisper 40th Anniversary Edition on CD is a nostalgic treasure for fans of one of pop's quintessential anthems. Released in 1984, the track's lush saxophone riff and Michael's emotive vocals made it an instant classic, topping charts worldwide and becoming a (slow) dancefloor staple. This commemorative CD presents four versions of the iconic song: the newly remastered original, an extended mix that amplifies its steamy appeal, a previously unreleased live performance from Madison Square Garden capturing its live charm and an instrumental version that highlights its exquisite musicality. While Michael himself was critical of the track's lyrical simplicity, viewing it as a minor achievement compared to his other work, the song's enduring appeal remains undeniable. This edition celebrates its lasting impact with a collection that offers fans both a trip down memory lane and a deeper appreciation of its musical legacy.
Review: Madonna's fourth studio album was, and remains her most explicit artistic statement. Though aiming for a "serious" sound, the album dazzled with a kaleidoscope of pop styles from the funk of 'Express Yourself' and 'Keep It Together' to the haunting 'Oh Father' and the alluring and still classic track. Praised for its songcraft as well as for pushing so many bundlers, Like a Prayer remains Madonna's most consistent album and though it was released 35 years ago, it still resonates. Over 15 million copies were sold in the years after release and the album produced six singles, spawned four top ten hits and now gets reissued as a special Silver Edition to celebrate 40 years of her groundbreaking career.
Review: Live & Sexy: The Biggest Hits in Concert is a new collection of tunes from one of Thebes to ever do it. It comes on CD but why would you bother with that when you can also cop this gatefold pink vinyl version on 2 x 12"? It features nearly 80 minutes of live renditions of Madge's most iconic hits, all of which were in this form originally recorded for live radio broadcasts. Along the way, the record captures the essence of her career at key moments and so is a fine celebration of her enduring legacy in musical history.
Review: Madonna's undeniable classic Like A Prayer receives a stunning reissue on silver vinyl here as the album's impact continues to endure in the pop world. Originally released in 1989 it featured a bold fusion of pop, gospel, and funk that once again showed Madonna's innovation in the studio and love of provocative themes. Hits like 'Like A Prayer,' 'Express Yourself,' and 'Cherish' are presented with renewed clarity on this beautifully remastered version which means the powerful emotional range and social commentary sound better than ever, while also coming with a touch of visual elegance
Review: LA-based indie-pop duo Magdalena Bay defy the fleeting nature of online trends with their debut LP, an inviting blend of sonic exploration and visual artistry. Entirely self-produced, the music is a testament to Mica Tenenbaum and Matt Lewin's creative vision, a mesmerising journey through abstract theories of time and the "what ifs" of human existence. Tracks like 'The End' and 'The Beginning' bookend the album with a sense of cyclical wonder, while 'Mercurial World' and 'Hysterical Us' delve into the complexities of identity and perception. With its dreamy melodies, infectious hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics, 'Mercurial World' solidifies Magdalena Bay's status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of indie pop.
Review: Los Angeles-based alt-synthpop duo Magdalena Bay are by far the best in their lane right now - something they already established with their highly popular debut album Mercurial World back in 2021, with 'Chaeri' and 'You Lose!' striking a serious chord with fans of Charli XCX, Grimes and similar alt/electro-pop darlings. Paired with striking so-bad-it's-good visuals rife with overt effects and editing, it's really the combination of Mica Tenenbaum's distinctive, ethereal vocal performance and Matthew Lewin's textural and multilayered production you will stay for.
Imaginal Disc, sharing its name with structures in insect larvae that develop into adult forms later on in life, is a tale of discovering the essence of humanity after the protagonist's body rejects a CD that aliens attempted to implant in them. The album sees Lewin firing on all cylinders, the duo honing so closely on their specific sound that it's incomparable to anything else. Lead single 'Image' is a marvel, danceable in all the right places, moody and chord-striking when it needs to be. Magdalena Bay are cementing themselves as a must-know name in the 2020s.
Review: Following her successful Trilogy tour, which spanned the US, UK, and Europe, Melanie Martinez has reissued her 2019 K-12 album on some mad pink and milky clear vinyl. It was a gold-selling record that also charted in the Top 10 and includes hits like 'Teacher's Pet' and 'High School Sweethearts'. Both are irresistible pop ditties that sit amongst many other seriously catchy and well polished sounds such as 'Wheels On The Bus and 'Show & Tell'. A wonderfully feel good record.
Review: Portablist Lounge have put together this special 7" scratchsafe™ battle record which also includes a sticker. The record has a narrow head-gauged and has been deep cut which means it won't skip no matter how hard you work it, and it' features standard scratch samples with AI generated voices from well-known celebrities including Alex Jones, Bart Simpson, Kermit the Frog, Stan Marsh, Angry Male, Adam Sandler, Alan Partridge, Cleveland Brown, Jerry Springer, Rick Sanchez, Snoop Dogg, Donald Trump, Tucker Carlson, Eric Cartman, Stewie Griffin, Greta Thumburg, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Joe Rogan, Limmy, Peter Griffin, Peter Kay and Simon Cowell.
Review: Get ready to revisit the magic of Miki Matsubara's seventh album, Cool Cut, which is now reissued for the first time on stunning coloured vinyl. Originally released on May 21, 1984, this edgy masterpiece captures the vibrant sound of an era and features the unparalleled production of charismatic guitarist Katsutoshi Morizono who is known for his groundbreaking work with Yonin Bayashi and Prism. Morizono's influence shines through in every note and this reissue brings back the cool, electrifying band sound that made the record a standout.
Review: Malcolm McLaren, probaly best known for managing the New York Dolls and the Sex Pistols, left a significant mark on pop culture as a writer, musician, and fashion designer. His 1994 album Paris, produced by Robin Millar (Sade, The Style Council, Everything But The Girl) on the French Vogue label, is now available on vinyl for the first time. The reissue coincides with the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, where the lead track 'Paris Paris' featuring Catherine Deneuve has been officially adopted and is expected to gain widespread attention. The album also includes collaborations with Francoise Hardy and Amina, making it a notable showcase of McLaren's eclectic artistry.
Review: Megan Thee Stallion's third studio album, 'Megan', marks her debut as an independent artist and reveals her personal truths with unflinching candor. The project opens powerfully with the chart-topping single 'Hiss', setting a bold tone. As the album unfolds, tracks like 'Rattle' and 'Figueroa' feature sharp disses and familiar themes.Megan shines in pieces like 'B.A.S.' and 'Otaku Hot Girl', where she demonstrates her lyrical strength and clever references. The album shifts towards introspection with 'Moody Girl' and 'Cobra', where she grapples with darker emotions, ultimately showcasing her vulnerability. Although some songs feel like straightforward rap without innovation, the overall structure is cohesive, with each track building on the last. While the polished album artwork contrasts with the rawness of the content, Megan is a strong effort. It is a worthwhile listen that captures Megan's multifaceted identity as an artist.
Review: As those following the music press (or what's left of it) will be aware, Megan Thee Stallion has been through a lot in recent years, with the Houston rapper's ascent to global superstardom being accompanied by struggles with grief and betrayal. It's perhaps not surprising, then, that her fourth album, MEGAN, is particularly spiky - both lyrically and musically - with the Texan responding to personal set backs by lashing out at online culture, perceived rivals, former collaborators (yes, Charli XCX does not escape criticism), and "sad girl shit". It not only confirms her place as a top-tier rapper - her lyrics are frequently b breathtakingly brilliant and jaw-dropping in their no-holds-barred intensity - but also one happy to do her thing over decidedly weighty beats, sub-heavy basslines and surprisingly minimalistic arrangements. A triumph, as expected.
Review: Record breaking, chart topping, Juno-winning and Grammy-nominated pop singer-songwriter and top Canadian talent Shawn Mendes is back with a new self titled album, which is his fifth overall. When artists opt for the self-titled LP it often reflects a more honest and personal approach and that is the case here as Shawn, which was written and recorded over the past two years, is him at his most intimate. It was recorded across many sessions and locations which also helps add different perspectives and influences and was done with a small group of collaborators including Scott Harris, Mike Sabath, Eddie Benjamin, Nate Mercereau, Ethan Gruska, Amy Allen and Chris Thile.
Review: Listen Without Prejudice is George Michael's introspective masterpiece. It has been newly remastered by Sony for this release and plots his evolution as a musician and also a lyricist. Released in 1990, the album delves into his signature themes of love, identity, and societal issues with raw honesty and vulnerability. Michael's velvety vocals glide effortlessly over soulful melodies and intricate arrangements and tracks like 'Freedom! '90' and 'Praying for Time' still cut through as they did almost 35 years ago. The album as a whole serves as a poignant reminder to approach life and relationships with an open mind and heart. RIP to a real one.
Review: Michelle's first project, 2018's Heatwave, celebrated the vibrant energy of New York City where all six band members grew up. Following its success and their 2022 album, After Dinner We Talk Dreams, the band expanded their horizons and headed out on tour across the US and Europe with artists like Gus Dapperton, Arlo Parks and Mitski. For their new album, Songs About You Specifically, Michelle retreated to a house in Ojai, California. Immersed in the serene desert surroundings, they found a new sense of solitude and intimacy and this shift is reflected in their music, which now embraces starry shoegaze, funk and 80s synth pop.
Review: Italian pop queen Mina proves her enduring brilliance with her 76th - yes, 76th - studio album. Now 84, Mina remains a commanding force in European pop, her octave-spanning voice undimmed by time. The album has been produced by her son Massimiliano Pani and centres on love's complexities, weaving lush textures and timeless arrangements. Tracks like 'Non smetto di aspettarti' showcase her dramatic flair, while 'Senza farmi male' introduces a modern twist with electronic rock. Mina's voice, at times powerful and at others tinged with age, captures the passage of time, reminding listeners of her unmatched legacy.
Review: This double-platinum album marks a milestone in the career of one of hip-hop's most influential figures, showcasing a bold blend of rap, pop and r&b. With its varied production styles and genre-defying sound, it captures Nicki Minaj at her most versatile and confident. From the introspective, emotionally charged 'Pills N Potions' to the playful, brash energy of 'Anaconda', the album explores a wide range of themes, from love and heartbreak to empowerment and self-expression. Nicki Minaj's lyrical prowess is on full display, with sharp, memorable verses that have become iconic in their own right. The production is lush and polished, featuring both hard-hitting beats and smooth, melodic hooks. Throughout, there's a sense of both vulnerability and strength, making it a deeply personal yet universally relatable record. The album's balance of catchy pop hooks and hard-hitting rap ensures its place as a standout in Minaj's discography, cementing her as a force in contemporary music. Fans are sure to appreciate the album's long-awaited vinyl release - many say this is her best.
Review: Kylie Minogue's turn-of-the-2K electropop album mightn't be known to most music fans; they know it by its singles, the best-known of which include 'Spinning Around' and 'On A Night Like This'. Also a return to Kylie's pop roots, it follows her 1997 record Impossible Princess, on which Minogue had taken an experimental turn towards trip-hop and electronica, though this didn't pan out as well as it did for committed actors in the style on which Minogue drew inspiration, such as Bjork. Though the former record gained a cult status in hindsight - a "sexy and reliable secret weapon" by some critics' assessments - Minogue nonetheless rode the critical wave of the time, saying Light Years heard her do "what I do best... pop music is the kind of music that people want from me." It is not to be discounted either, its electric dance sound design serving a kind of eerie hyperreality that likely wasn't registered among her target demographic way back when.
B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition
Slow (3:15)
Still Standing (3:40)
Secret (Take You Home) (3:16)
Promises (3:16)
Sweet Music (4:11)
Red Blooded Woman (4:22)
Chocolate (5:00)
Obsession (3:26)
I Feel For You (4:12)
Someday (4:18)
Loving Days (4:27)
After Dark (4:05)
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***
Body Language remains one of Kylie Minogue's finest records, in particular finding some truly inspirational crossover between the Aussie pop queen's immaculate voice and a more sultry kind of club music. When an album opens up with a track as perfect as 'Slow', you know you're in for a treat. There are of course many different sides to the record, and there's space for different stylistic approaches besides the floor fillers, but it's the likes of 'I Feel For You' with its cut-up disco loops that give Minogue the backing she deserves to bring the club to life. This edition of the album comes pressed on blood red vinyl, all the better to set pulses racing.
Review: On her 2023 album Tension, Queen of Pop Kyle Minogue leant into dance music culture in a big way, delivering a set of bold, weighty and throbbing dance-pop singalongs rooted in EDM, Euro-dance and the more boisterous and forthright end of LGBTQ club culture (a theme that has been a significant part of her musical output from the earliest days of her career in the 1980s). As a sequel, Tension II is similarly framed - think catchy, effects-laden vocals, trance-adjacent synth stabs, bustling beats and plenty of nods to club sounds old and new. There are a few collaborations, too, most notably with The Blessed Madonna ('The Edge of Saturday Night'), Sia ('Dance Again'), and Orville Peck and Diplo ('Midnight Ride').
Edge Of Saturday Night (feat The Blessed Madonna) (3:36)
Midnight Ride (feat Orville Peck & Diplo) (3:27)
Kiss Bang Bang (2:26)
Diamonds (2:41)
Hello (2:34)
Dance To The Music (2:33)
Shoulda Left Ya (2:16)
Dance Alone (feat Sia) (2:50)
Review: Kylie Minogue returns with Tension II, her seventeenth studio album. This follow-up to 2023's Tension delves deeper into electronic and dance music influences, showcasing Minogue's mastery of infectious, high-energy tracks. 'Lights Camera Action', is a vibrant club anthem driven by pulsating beats and raving synths, setting the tone for a night of dance floor escapism. 'Edge of Saturday Night', co-produced with The Blessed Madonna, blends pop and house influences, creating a shimmering, feel-good track perfect for the weekend. Collaborations like 'My Oh My' with Bebe Rexha and Tove Lo lean into playful, flirtatious energy, while 'Midnight Ride' with Orville Peck and Diplo fuses country elements with festival-ready disco. The album culminates with 'Dance Alone', a pop-disco anthem featuring Sia, further capturing Minogue's signature style. Overall, Tension II is a dynamic, electronic-driven journey, filled with club-ready hits that solidify Minogue's timeless appeal on the dance floor.
Review: Kylie Minogue returns to her electropop roots with her latest album, Tension. Following her detours into country with 2018's Golden and disco with 2020's Disco, Kylie delivers an album brimming with energetic beats and catchy melodies. The standout single, 'Padam Padam,' has been a viral hit, securing her a spot in the UK Top 10 for the first time in a decade. Tension features 11 tracks, each infused with Kylie's signature blend of playful and sultry vibes. The title track is a vibrant mix of 90s house riffs and vocoder effects, while 'Vegas High' and 'Hold On to Now' shows her ability to turn introspection into dancefloor anthems. Despite slight diversions into funk and disco with tracks like 'Both Hands' and 'Green Light,' the album maintains its exhilarating pace. Closing with the introspective yet uplifting 'Story,' Kylie reassures her fans with a glittering chorus and heartfelt lyrics. Tension is quintessential Kylie, offering an escape filled with shimmering choruses and emotionally rich melodies, proving her enduring charm and relevance in the pop landscape.
Review: Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie stands as Alanis Morissette's most intriguing album. Following the massive success of Jagged Little Pill, which became the tentth best-selling album of all time, Morissette faced immense pressure to replicate its style, but Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie landed like an autumn leafilargely unnoticed but deeply affecting. The album is a complex collection, often pulling Morissette in various directions, making it less cohesive. Morissette's voice remains its strongest feature, resonant and more mature than on her previous work and tracks like 'Baba', with its pre-nu-metal fury, and 'That I Would Be Good,' a heartfelt ballad, showcase her considerable range. 'Thank U' and 'UR' hint at the direction of her next album, while 'Would Not Come' explores trip-hop influences. Morissette's most compelling work and definitely worthy of rediscovery.
Review: The reissue of Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie gives a new audience the opportunity to discover Alanis Morissette's intriguing and often overlooked follow-up to Jagged Little Pill. Released during a turbulent time in the music industry, this album was initially overshadowed by the towering success of its predecessor. However, with its diverse soundscapes and deeply personal lyrics, the record has aged into something truly unique. Morissette's voice is richer and more mature here, moving beyond the iconic style she established in her earlier work. Tracks like 'Baba' and 'Thank U' show her knack for blending introspection with biting commentary, while songs like 'That I Would Be Good' and 'Unsent' reveal her reflective side and a deeper look into her search for self-understanding amid fame's pressures. The album's eclectic mix of stylesifrom the trip-hop influence on 'Would Not Come' to the electro-tinged 'So Pure'ihighlights Morissette's willingness to experiment. Though the record's length and occasional indulgence may have put off some listeners initially, it now stands as a bold exploration of identity and artistry. This reissue is a perfect chance to appreciate the album's complexity and rediscover its hidden gems.
Review: Mxmtoon is a self-made superstar. She's brought the world's attention to her art through being compelling as a Youtuber and Twitch stream icon. Off the back of her endearing social engagement and community building abilities, now she has a fully-fledged music career and is touring the globe. And it all started in her bedroom. Although her audience has grown considerably since she first started out home broadcasting, her personable charm and intimate singer-songwiter style remains intact on Liminal Space, which is Mxmtoon's third studio album. That said, Mxmtoon hasn't been afraid to experiment with arrangements in the studio and embellish that folk-pop core. 'I Hate Texas' is a soaring pop ballad with an atmospheric wall of sound begging for rotation on daytime radio. Elsewhere, the gentler numbers, 'Rain' and 'Elevator', are steeped in Americana, which offers a ye olde charm to the otherwise breezily modern pop sound.
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