New releases last four weeks: All genres

Review: Three lovely, carefully terraformed dub tekno sketches from new co:clear recruit Eden Aurelius. Both in title and soundworld, these pieces strongly evoke slow-panning aerial shots of undulating terrain, gusts of wind through glistening skyscrapers and diffused sunlight through striated cloud. A stretch maybe - but a stretch informed by years of dub techno semiotics from precursors like Rod Modell and Pub, whose visually evocative sonic staging doubtless laid some of the groundwork for records like this. There's a formalism and orthodoxy to Aurelius' work, marking it apart from the glut of neu-ambient ASMR-scapes from labels such as INDEX and 3XL. Take the cathartic pulse of title track 'Plateau', for instance, which deftly weaves cavernous swathes of vocals and band-passed chord stabs into something that would sound equally at home on SUED or echospace. Real nice.

Review: With both tracks now coming out for the first time on 7" vinyl, the 'Liquid Love' and 'What's The T?' 7" single is a must get for all Roy Ayers fans and serious music collectors, not least as 2023 witnesses Roy's final ever tour of live dates. This release is a fitting tribute to the career of one of the most influential musicians in global Black music history and each track represents his virtuosity as a vibesman and his versatility across genres. 'Liquid Love' is taken from the 2015 BBE released album of Roy's unreleased material, Virgin Ubiquity II and is a wicked mid-tempo track where Roy's vibraphone complements an amazing female vocal arrangement to create harmonies and melody over a tough-as-you-like breakbeat, bassline and keyboard riff.

Review: In 2018, three-time Grammy Award-winning violinist Hilary Hahn returned to classical label-behemoth Deutsche Grammophon (her usual) for an official album of interpretations of J.S. Bach's violin concertos, in collaboration with Jeffery Kahane and the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. The much-celebrated fiddler laid down a stunning, full rendition of the concertos, all recorded at the Colburn School Of Performing Arts and which added to her huge repertoire. This stealth reissue from the classical music giant bolsters Hahn's rep once more.

Review: Just as they were likely originally intended, two of Calibre's said-to-be most coveted productions come remastered fresh from the vaults, and reissued on black vinyl via the sonic conservationists over at Signature. First comes the 2001 remix of Badmarsh & Shri's 'Signs', to which Calibre lends an extra rolling signification, its no-nonsense industrial break and tensing, two-note pads doing most of the legwork here. Then there's the original 'Soul 80', a unique fusion of dub-delayed chipmunky vox splices, modular synth piques, and a massive, untechy breakbeat.

Review: Mystery surrounds the story behind this edit-style two-tracker - and, indeed, the identity of Baggy Leggins and Duke Hobo themselves - but there's much to admire about it. Check first A-side 'Keep Marching', where a lightly beefed up and housed-up semi-acoustic groove offers a platform for sweet, bilingual female lead vocals, jaunty guitars and simmering strings. It's a genuine dancefloor revision, but one that will suit Balearic DJs and confirmed party starters as much as dusty-fingered crate diggers and selector sorts. 'Shuffleupagus', meanwhile, sees the mystery artist cut up and tool up a vaguely familiar Latin workout with predictably energetic and party-starting results.

Review: This is one of those albums that is for the real heads - a deep, dark, moody mix of new soul and hip-hop from the great vocalist you might well have recognised from Roni Size/Reprazent's seminal New Forms album. Released in 1996, it showcases Bahamadia's distinctive flow and insightful lyricism with tracks like 'Uknowhowwedu' and '3 the Hard Way' effortlessly navigating intricate beats and soulful samples to deliver messages of empowerment and introspection. As such the LP embodies the essence of 90s hip-hop in the way it blends jazz-infused production with Bahamadia's smooth delivery. As a pioneer for female MCs, Bahamadia's influence should reverberate through generations.

Review: Chet Baker's Round Midnight 79 is a captivating live studio album that showcases his exceptional talent as a jazz trumpeter and song arranger. Recorded in one take with no overdubs, the album captures the raw energy and intimacy of a live performance. Baker's trumpet playing is both sultry and expressive, particularly on tracks like 'What's New?'. Accompanied by Rachel Gould's cabaret-style singing on 'All Blues', adds a unique touch to the album. The supporting musicians, including Henry Florens on piano, Jean-Paul Florens on guitar, Jim Richardson on bass, and Tony Mann on drums, provide a solid foundation for Baker's improvisations. Together, they create a cohesive and captivating soundscape that transports listeners to a smoky jazz club. It is a timeless album that continues to captivate and inspire listeners to this day.

Review: Original Gravity serve up yet two more contemporary soul tracks; sides A and B on this latest 7" are shared by Curtis Baker & The Bravehearts and Floyd James & The GTs respectively. The A's 'By Hook Or By Crook' recounts the all-to-relatable feeling of stopping at nothing to get what one wants, while 'The Switchback' ups the big beats and big halls for a roomy guit-funk come mod romp. Yet another delight to add to the OG Newtonians' pile.

Review: Is there a more fun and hard-to-pin-down label than Studio Barnhus? The plaything of Swedish artists Kornel Kovacs, Axel Boman and their mate Petter Nordkvist it has done it all from trancehall to bubblegum house via pop edits and plenty in between. Now they look to Stockholm boys Ari Bald & CJ Scott once more for a new EP that bangs hard and has a great sense of character, much like their label debut here last year. All four of these house cuts are full-flavoured slammers with heartfelt vocal samples and lovely naive melodies that really make their mark.

Review: Barcelona mainstay Baldo originally released 'Ride The Night' as part of digital single Saturdays Come And Gone on Permanent Vacation in 2022. As a fierce and fabulous homage to Hi-NRG, it showed the most muscular, nocturnal side of Baldo's sound and the track took on a life of its own. Now the label have decided to give the track more prominence with this heavyweight vinyl remix package, which kicks off in style with a suitably throbbing workout from Red Axes before switching to the strutting big room style of Alex Neri. Jennifer Loveless zeroes in to the sensual heart of the track with a thrumming low end and a powerful command of the tension in the track, leaving it to Baldo's original to close the EP out in style.

Review: After two well-received albums, BALTHVS comes out with their third, titled Third Vibration. The Columbian rock band plays a unique blend of exciting music,with songs often touching on psychedelic, funk, rhythm and blues and Latin, soul and rock music. Take their first song on the album 'All is One' for example - a cornucopia of influences mixing with a shimmering and crisp production that gives off a great 70s vibe to it. Whether you are relaxing by the pool, on vacation or you having a mellow get together at your house, Third Vibration is the perfect audio soundtrack and background music for a nice time.

Review: Get yourself geared up for festival season with some fierce party starters certified with the Glitterbox stamp. Melvo Baptiste leads the charge with 'Sweat', a sizzling disco house stomper with Dames Brown giving the biggest diva energy on her show-stopping vocal. Lovebirds bring unbridled joy on the Philly string swoon and slinky b-line funk of 'Burn It Down', while Art Of Tones & Inaya Day keep it peak time on the sassy strutter 'Give My Love'. Young Pulse & Fleur De Mur complete the set with 'Smooth Sweet Talker', another bright and bold vocal cut par excellence.

Review: Laurent Bardainne and Tigre d'Eau Douce's third album, EDEN BEACH CLUB, transports listeners to a sun-drenched paradise and was conceived as an imaginary soundtrack to a day by the sea. Following the triumph of Bardainne's Hymne au soleil album, they set their sights higher and here have crafted a sonic oasis that defies boundaries. Returning to their winning formula, the album seamlessly blends groove, soul, jazz, and electronic elements as each track invites you to lose yourself in a breezy and beachy dance as you celebrate an eternal sunset tinged with electric energy. The album is brimming with sophisticated and laid back melodies and gently persuasive grooves.

Review: Tenor saxophonist Barney Wilen made his debut splash when he was just 20 years old, impressing all those around him with the incendiary Guilde Du Jazz: 1957 album. Across the album, laggard, carefree swing and roomy bop abounded stylistically, leading one of his major inspirations, Miles Davis, to remark: "this is the best tenor saxophone I've heard in Europe; he plays tenor in an authentic way, much better than many current stars in the States." Unfortunately, this record was not widely distributed in Wilens' native France because he was under contract with the French label Vogue. Now reissued in its true home country under the wing of Sam Records, Wilen's Guilde is returns as an impressive portrayal of the saxophonist's aptitude for wild, ghostly playing, which succeeds in evoking a feeling of the uncanny despite its jubilant style.

Review: Stevie Wonder's 'Pastime Paradise' has thus far been less recognised as an original soul wonderwork, and more so as a sample by American rapper Coolio on the derivative 'Gangster's Paradise'. Though still having been covered by many artists over the years, Major Keys records highlights this enduring 1981 cover of Wonder's 'Paradise' by Latin percussionist Ray Barretto as among their favourites, if not their absolute favourite. Now the label reissue the gem, flaunting its up-to-date, nigh timeless feel; it's the opposite of a miracle that this has never before been released on a 12" single record, despite the fact that it is a favourite on the floors of jazz and soul rooms the world over. It also flips it with Barretto's own 'La Cuna' and 'Mambotango', taken from the same 1981 LP.

Review: This 2024 edition marks the return of Joe Bataan, via the same track that made his name in 2004. Vampi Soul first welcomed the Latin Soul king to the label two decades back, facilitating the release of his 2005 album Call My Name. The pre-release singles for the album were 'Chick-A-Boom' and 'Cycles Of You', packed onto a single 7"; these quickly became DJs' favourites and have thus since remained long out of print. As it was twenty years ago, 'Chick-A-Boom' is a simultaneously upbeat but ghostly track, with Bataan's vocals quadrupling up in a wall of sound while providing the vibe equivalent of a Jackie Chan flick. 'Call My Name', meanwhile, goes heavy on the clavichord and synth whistle, as Bataan revels in a funereal theme, dancing, thundersticking into the great beyond.

Review: Popular Hull-based shoegaze quartet bdrmm are building up to their latest tour with the release of single 'Standard Tuning, arriving hot on the heels of their critically acclaimed second album, 'I Don't Know'. Written and recorded during those same sessions and very much similarly flavoured, it continues a fine vein of form right now, with high praise coming in from the likes of Rolling Stone and Consequence. This special 10" also comes with a remix of the live favourite 'Alps' by Ninja Tune/Cambria Instruments electronica specialist Nathan Fake.

Review: Well Curated is a series of releases and parties that - in its own words - "reflects the ethnomusicology of the last 50 years of music" - and aims to reach into all genres, merging classic styles and breaking down barriers. Steve Spacek occupies the A-side with the breezy broken beat and soul-in-space of 'Alone In Da Sun', while Lukid's 'Hair Of The Dog' is a more intense counterpart, with wobbling sub-bass and swirling, surging atmospherics hovering above.

Review: The Beatles: The Red Album: 1962-1966 encapsulates the iconic band's early years with a dynamic selection of tracks that have now all been remastered at half speed so they sound extra good. This compilation showcases the evolution of their sound from the exuberant energy of 'Love Me Do' to the groundbreaking creativity of 'A Hard Day's Night' and beyond. There are also timeless hits like 'Twist and Shout' and 'Yesterday,' which means this collection serves as a definitive journey through the first part of the The Beatles' legendary catalogue. Each song is a direct portal back to the 60s and to the vibrant era of Beatlemania at the peak of its powers.

Review: The Beatles' EP From Us To You #3 captures a 1964 BBC session that encapsulates the band's early charm and infectious energy. Featuring a whopping ten tracks, it was recorded in the BBC's Paris Studios in Regent Street, London and fact fans will note that 'Honey Don't which was later included on the album Beatles For Sale and sung by Ringo, here features John on the vocals. Elsewhere the EP captures the band's irresistible melodies and tight harmonies with three of the tunes originally penned by the band's favourite rockabilly star Carl Perkins. Each song is a testament to The Beatles' enduring influence on popular music and overall serves as a timeless reminder of the band's unmatched creativity which continues to this day with new AI-produced singles that the much talked about one earlier in the year.

Notes: Ever loved something so much you wanted to "bee-come" it? While Beetronics' circuits are primarily original, their bees had classic favourites they "Wannabee-d," so Beetronics embraced these buzzing wonders as their own hive of inspiration, infusing a generous dose of honeyed innovation to craft the ultimate dual overdrive.

The WANNABEE "BEELATERAL BUZZ" is a dual-drive pedal like no other. It combines two classic circuits, each offering three distinct FLAVORS, and lets users weave them together however they like. They can run them side by side or have one flow into the other, unlocking a world of tonal possibilities, as sweet as a jar of honey.

Circuit #0, Beetronics's Bluesbreaker-inspired creation, harmonizes vintage amp tones with crystal-clear crispness, all while preserving that beloved tube-like warmth. Plus, its three flavours give users control over the low-end oomph. Circuit #1 is Beetronics's take on the legendary Klon. All those iconic transparent overdrive tones are here, with a sweet honey twist. Unlike any other Klon, Beetronics' Circuit #1 offers a unique trio of flavours that grant users control over their clean blend level.

This pedal's core houses a truly exceptional Routing System, crafted by Beetronics' expert bees. It's the gateway to exploring unique tones. What makes it stand out is that it lets users not only choose the order of the circuits but also blend them in parallel, something other dual-drive pedals can't do.

In the centre position, users can use the volume controls to mix both circuits in parallel. And with the footswitch, they're in charge of when each circuit kicks in. Flick it to the right, and Circuit #0 flows into Circuit #1; shift left, and Circuit #1 flows into Circuit #0. When chaining one circuit into another, users can simply crank up the volume on the first to push the second into a thrilling buzz of distortion.

The WANNABEE draws inspiration from Beetronics' favourite overdrive circuits and then elevates them to a whole new level, enhancing their tone with a touch of honey and introducing innovative features. It unlocks a world of possibilities by blending both circuits in the most unique ways. Beetronics hopes this can be the ultimate overdrive tool to help users truly BEE THEMSELVES.

Product specs

Pedal Dimensions 5.5" x 4" x 2.5" (including knobs, switches and etc)
Pedal Weight - 1.1 lbs / 0.5 kg
Package Size - 6" x 5.25" x 3"
Requires 9VDC power supply (Centre Negative)
*Does not include power supply

Notes: Space-conscious lowpass filter and volume processor.

A combination of VCF + VCA + Mixer that lets you mix three different sound sources, and shape their tone, and levels in a breeze.

The Pony Filter is built around the SSI2144 FATKEYS Chip. Has the elegant sound of the classic transistor filter without the associated distortions, due to Dave Rossum's "improved ladder" topology.

Features

3 Channel Mixer (Out normalized to channel three for feedback)
Temperature-compensated Q and frequency.
Compensated Volume VS Resonance
2 Cuttof CV INs.
CV 1 Selectable routing Cut-Off or Cut-Off+VCA
Voltage controlled Q
Two Segment Peak Meter

Specifications

Four-pole, 24 dB/octave
Current needs: +12V=50mA, -12V=45mA
Width: 6 HP
Depth Assembled Version: 22mm
Depth DIY Kit Version: 40mm
Designed, kits prepared and assembled in Barcelona.

Review: Black Carbon by Akae Beka featuring Chronixx delivers deep Jah vibes and chilled reggae rhythms that capture the soul of Jamaican life. On Side-1, the track unfolds smoothly, blending reggae and dub elements into a mesmerising sonic experience. The lyrics delve into profound themes, reflecting on societal issues and spiritual insights. On Side-2, the dub version amplifies the instrumental aspects, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the rich layers of the music. Overall, Black Carbon is a captivating release that shows the talents of both artists and offers a refreshing take on contemporary reggae music.

Review: Way back in 1993, when his career was still in its infancy, Chicago great Roy Davis Jr donned an alternative alias, The Believers, and delivered a 12" on Strictly Rhythm: 'Who Dares To Believe In Me?' It was something of a club smash, with Ministry of Sound issuing it in the UK a year later with a swathe of new mixes. This Groovin' Records reissue boasts a trio of mixes from the original U.S 12". On the A-side you'll find the original mix, a warm, spine-tingling slab of piano-rich New York style house topped off by snaking, delay-laden saxophone lines and an inspirational spoken word vocal courtesy of Davis. Over on the reverse, Davis' own 'Just Living High Mix' - a breezier, jazzier and more colourful affair - is followed by Mind Readers' tougher, chunkier and heavier revision, which is in effect a proper dancefloor dub.

Review: Hot Creations has now put out well over 225 records, which is no mean feat, but even more impressive is that it still very much sets the conversation for a certain section of the house world. This new EP pairs off Beltran with Harry Valencia and offers some interesting fusions of tribal, Latin, house and tech. There is a wonky feel to opener 'Origins' (3AM Tusi mix) with its characterful vocal chants and percussive grooves, while Beltran's solo cut 'Tira A Roupa' (feat Mc Jajau - Putaria mix) has a Spanish feel and a fat bass guitar riff that brings rubbery funk to the crisp tech drums. Last of all, Harvy Valencia goes it alone on closer 'Brut' which is more steamy and sweaty and ready for some sun-kissed open-air deployment.

Review: Interplugreaction is a track from Beroshima's 2007 album Real To Reel, but it's wasn't until 2023 that we (now get to) hear the cream of its reinterpretations. If only every track in the world could hear a remix from the likes of Marcel Dettman and Rodhad! Perhaps this calls for an entirely new industry - in fact, let's lock the artists in a room just so they can churn out the music and nothing else. Actually, a whopping four techno heavyweights (also including Frank Muller and Henning Baer) to reinterpret the classic track, with the new mixes ranging from stuffy and oppressive to airy and stark. Certainly not one to miss.

Review: Beyonce's Cowboy Carter is a bold and poignant exploration of American roots music, marking a departure from her previous works while asserting her dominance across genres. Inspired by her 2016 experience at the Country Music Association Awards, where she faced criticism and racism despite her Texas roots, Beyonce delves into Louisiana Cajun country, the rivers of Alabama, and the streets of Memphis, reimagining Americana, folk, and country in her own image. The album serves as a powerful statement on the erasure of Black contributions to country music and American culture, with Beyonce reclaiming her rightful place in the genre's history. Through collaborations with legends like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson, as well as emerging Black country and rock musicians, Beyonce highlights the enduring legacy of Black artists in shaping these musical forms. Cowboy Carter is both a sonic journey and a cultural commentary, blending elements of folk, country and rock with Beyonce's signature style and vocal range. From the haunting cover of the Beatles' 'Blackbird' to the electrifying trap beats of 'Ya Ya,' the album showcases Beyonce's versatility and musical dexterity. No doubt, 2024 will be another strong year of Beyonce led by this album.

Review: Having previously successfully turned her hand to house and disco - many of our top pop performers have always been shapeshifting musical magpies (hello Madonna) - Beyonce Knowles Carter has now delved into the world of country music. No doubt you'll be bored of the endless discourse around Cowboy Carter, but that doesn't stop it from being a genuinely good album - a brilliant fusion of neo-soul, r&b and, yes, country music instrumentation that wisely leaves Beyonce's incredible voice front and centre. There are some genuinely notable covers - see her takes on the Beatles 'Blackbird' and Dolly Parton's 'Jolene' (featuring an introduction from her Dollyness) stand out - but the most striking songs are by and large her own work. For proof, see 'American Requiem', 'Most Wanted' (with Miley Cyrus), 'Sweet Honey Buckin' (with Shaboozy) and 'Tyrant'.

Review: Once nominated for the GRAMMY for 'Best Traditional Blues Album', blues and roots legend Eric Bibb delivers a brand new live album to the world, Live At The Scala Theatre, Stockholm, under license from Repute Records. Live at The Scala Theatre contains a selection of songs cherry-picked from Bibb's towering history as a musician, infused with the folk and blues tradition with more contemporary sensibilities. "Without a doubt," says Bibb, The Live at The Scala concert was "the most ambitious gig and recording project of my career." The performance features an all-star lineup of musicians including Eric's longtime collaborator, musical director and producer Glen Scott on bass, keys, drums and backing vocals; Olle Linder on drums and acoustic bass; Johan Lindstrom on pedal steel and electric guitar; Christer Lyssarides on electric guitar and mandola; we could go on.

Review: Big Boys are punk visionaries from Austin in Texas and they sure made a big bang with what they described as their "debut, sophomore, and final album." This bunch of renegades came up in the late 1970's Austin scene. The band was led by the dynamic Randy "Biscuit" Turner, alongside Tim Kerr, Chris Gates, and various drummers like Rey Washam. They infused their music with skate funk, which means they somewhat deviated from hardcore norms at the time. Their diverse sound touched on post-punk akin to The Minutemen and inclusion in Thrasher magazine's cult "skate comps" catapulted them to fame among 80s skate punk enthusiasts. Renowned for engaging their live audiences like few others, they fearlessly explored new musical realms, even tackling Kool and the Gang covers at one point.

Review: BIG BRAVE's music epitomises what has been called 'massive minimalism,' with layers of textural distortion and feedback accentuating its weight and frayed edges. Their artistry blends traditional folk techniques with a modern deconstruction of guitar music, all of which is evident in the new album A Chaos Of Flowers, which is a follow-up to their fierce 2023 album Nature Morte. Lyrically, the songs delve into vulnerability, isolation, and co-existence in nature and guitarist and vocalist Robin Wattie drew inspiration from poetry by female-presenting artists, exploring alienation's impact on the psyche. This record is a testament to the band's ability to evoke intense emotions through minimalist yet powerful arrangements.

Review: The mighty Big Miz is back on Shall Not Fade with more of that bright and bold peak-time house music he's made his name on over the past eight years or so. Much like his releases on Dixon Avenue Basement Jams and his own Miz Records, across the Friends FM EP the highly-rated producer smartly balances deep house warmth, crafty modern production and big room presence, but the difference here is this time he's not doing it alone. On the A-side Miz links up with Bessa, while on the flip he trades licks and loops with Hayley Zalassi and Van Damn, but whoever's in the co-pilot seat that distinctive Big Miz sheen comes gleaming through the mix every time.

Review: Italian dance producer Gianni Bini debuts on Groove Culture with the House Of Glass LP, topping up his impressive discography with a solo studio effort, and bolstering the already massive stock of production credits attached to his bulging, insatiable name. Though his various monikers over the years have indeed propelled him in a many-a-direction, Bini's latest here centres on epic disco, and rewinds the tape to an earlier sound first explored in his formative days as a producer; retroactively, we hear a livelier, more contemporary take on the stabbing strings, bristling bass and bubblegum beats - all live-recorded - that first put him on the map.

Review: Diane Birch returns with that spellbinding voice - a transportive powerhouse packing a timeless quality that resonates through her music. The American recording world doing what it has always done so well, creating huge, heartbreaking, hopeful, and captivating mini operas disguised as pop. Or, if you want to get technical here: soft rock, country, folk, r&b and soul. OK, so there are elements of funk and jazz, too, and the result is a heady brew that's pretty inescapable. Harking back to the balladry heydays, with shades of Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston, and Carly Simon, to name but a few - in delivery and performance, if not necessarily tone - no matter where you're listening from it's going to be hard to forget this one.

Review: Super Spicy's Super Spicy Recipe series is back with a sixth mouthwatering offering and once again it's a super hot outing of party-ready house and disco sounds. First up is the irresistibly colourful disco charm of Birdee with the freewheeling 'Underground' and its groove-infused piano. Label boss Monsieur Van Pratt then adds his own spin to a rare groove classic with a lung-busting soul vocal and Pato Watson is in edit mode as he tweaks 'Ella Fue' to perfection. Italian don Paul Older brings some funky jazz fusion sounds to his steamy 'Turkish Lights, C. Da Afro keeps it a party with his 'Nothing But The Funk' and Mexican Juan Soto slips into a more deep and loved-up funk-house vibe on 'All Is Full Of Love'.

Review: Originally released in 2005, Silenced captures the essence of The Black Dog's enigmatic allure, transporting listeners to otherworldly realms with its lush, tuneful compositions and angular genius. Each track on the album is a testament to the group's unparalleled ability to surprise and entrance, evoking a sense of both unease and beauty. For fans of The Black Dog, Silenced serves as a welcome treat, while also serving as an entry point for those new to the group's mesmerising soundscapes. Definitelt one of their best full length albums yet to date.

Review: It's only been two years - well, actually, not even that - since we last had an album from The Black Keys. No matter which clock you're looking at, though, fresh work from the Ohio duo can never get here soon enough, and from where we're sitting it sounds like Ohio Players is up there with the greatest records the band have given us. It also proves they're capable of constant reinvention, without risking that clear blues-garage identity. With guest appearance from rapper Lil Noid, legendary guitarist Beck, and Brit-indie icon Noel Gallagher, there's no disguising myriad influencing factors are at play. Yet, across the 14 pieces here, there's something wonderfully, unmistakably Black Keys happening. A thing to savour and submit to in equal measure, then.

Review: During The Black Keys surprise revival of recent years, much of their music has been produced by Dangermouse. While he played no role on the duo's new album, Ohio Players - their 12th in total - his influence remains in the inventiveness of the production. The pair's new-found love of collaboration remains too, with Beck credited as co-writer on roughly half of the album's tracks. His influence is obvious in the funkiness and fuzz-fuelled psychedelia of 'This Is Nowhere' and 'Don't Let Me Go', as well as the quirky, horn-sporting cheeriness of 'Beautiful People (Stay High)' and the low-slung, effortlessly funky indie-rap hedonism of 'Paper Crown' (where he appears on vocals alongside Juicy J. The band's wholehearted love of hip-hop is also explored on the excellent Lil Noid collaboration 'Candy & Her Friends'.

Review: The Black Keys, renowned for their gritty blues-rock sound, pay homage to their Ohio roots with Ohio Players, with this album serving as a soulful tribute to the legendary funk band. With electrifying guitar riffs, pulsating rhythms and soulful vocals, each track resonates with the spirit of Ohio's musical heritage. From infectious grooves to heartfelt lyrics, this lovely long player showcases The Black Keys' versatility and reverence for their musical lineage. It's a celebration of Ohio's rich musical legacy that will delight fans old and new, cementing The Black Keys' status as modern-day rock and roll torchbearers.

Review: 26 years ago Blame embraced the dark forces of the Sith (a good five years before the Revenge movie) - and it finally got a release in 2021. Now comes the VIP. Even more score-like and dramatic with its energy and intention, this will have you unleashing force destruction before you can even whip out your sabre. 'Lost Science' is another unreleased gem from the same late 90s era. Big jazzy drums, caverns of space and a sense of cosmic jazz that's hard to find in contemporary breakbeat music. The dark force is strong on this one.

Review: Maya Blandy's latest single, Lemons, is a vibrant and infectious track that seamlessly blends upbeat urban funk with an acid jazz sound, resulting in a potential pop hit. The song takes a spin on the classic adage about making the best out of life's challenges, presenting it with a fresh and edgy perspective. With its catchy hooks, groovy rhythm, and Maya Blandy's convincing vocals, Lemons is destined to be an instant hit once heard.
The Side-2 is equally as good with 'BIB (Bitch In Black).' This song oozes with soulful vibes, showcasing Maya's mesmerizing vocals against an urban beat backdrop. The addition of a horn section adds depth and richness to the track, elevating its sonic experience.

Review: Jay Bliss brings his classy tech house touch to this sixth EP on the Berg Audio label. It begins with the title track which is a futuristic mix of silky and serene synth lines and smooth but propulsive drums. 'Pressure' rocks back and forth on a metallic loop and layers up the balmy pads, while 'Rocket Science' has a more textured feel and zippy little synth details that bring plenty of intrigue. 'Stellar Flux' closes out with another comically inclined fusion of dynamic drums and heady synth patterns, this time with a playful neo-disco undertone.

Review: Sizzling-hot hip-hop duo Blue Lab Beats are on everybody's lips now, thanks at least in part to the announcement of their latest full-length album, Blue Eclipse. Heralding an exciting new era for the duo, these 12 songs reveal the depth and breadth of producer NK-OK, and multi-instrumentalist Mr DM's musical ambition. Throwing back to their debut EP 'Blue Skies', which even pre-dates their involvement with record labels, Blue Eclipse signals a circling back to their origins while also embracing the new; the pair's usual jazztronica remit is lent the utmost contemporary spin, with notes of drill, neoclassical, trap and Jersey bounce - all still prevalent styles - peeking through in these latest productions.

Review: On Your Feet Or On Your Knees was the band's first compilation and helped them shoot to stardom. With the rise of successful greatest hits albums, the label at the time pressured the young band to bring out a collection of previously released music, with then 12 songs featured here the result of collecting three songs per prior album that the band felt were their strongest. This album features some of the most beloved live songs by the band like 'Buck's Boogie'. For those that are new to the band, this is a great introduction to the history of BOC prior to their landmark hit 'Don't Fear The Reaper' smash the following year and this reissue comes on silver & black marbled vinyl.

Review: Finally, the debut Bochum Welt album Module 2 has been reissued after an initial run on Rephlex. Bochum Welt (Gianluigi Di Costanzo) has just recently celebrated 30 years of releasing music. His brand of IDM, electro and techno has been often copied but never equaled. His futuristic music seems to always be forward thinking and ultimately, timeless sounding. This edition is on matching green vinyl and includes all the classic material of the first release. Fans of AFX, Squarepusher and Cylob are sure to be aware of Bochum Welt. But for those who aren't....

Review: BODEGA's debut album under Chrysalis Records, Our Brand Could Be YR Life, arrives as a culmination of their indie-rock musings on the encroachment of corporate influence into youth culture. Initially conceived eight years ago, guitarist and vocalist Ben Hozie has described it as a project they have long wanted to undertake. With 15 fantastic tracks, the album delves into various indie-rock subgenres, from dance-punk to shoegaze and psychedelic rock. Reflecting on themes of self-critique and cultural commentary, it offers a diverse sonic landscape, with hints of influences like R.E.M. This vital new collection shows BODEGA's musical evolution and retains their keen observations on contemporary societal shifts.

Review: Celebrated UK dance duo Bondax aka George Townsend and Adam Kaye are back with a new vinyl release of their landmark album Journey. The pair from Lancaster first broke onto the scene as teenagers some decade ago now and since then have picked up plenty of high profile props from the likes of BBC 6, Spotify and many more, all while playing ever further afield. Now they land on wax for the first time with this album which encapsulates what their sound is all about across eight tracks including plenty of already well-loved singles like the title track itself.

Review: Funkyjaws Music is back with more music to make your jaw go funky, this time in the form of a second volume of its Let's Dance series. It features a quartet of esteemed tune makers starting with Frank Booker's 'Yes No Maybe' which is a horn laced and loose-limbed delight, while go-slow master Eddie C brings his classy touch to the funky licks of 'Love Dancing Theme.' There are plenty of cosmic synth waves to Black Truffle's 'Dancing Through The Night' while the LTJ Xperience close down with a super laid back and summery vibe on 'Sunny Groove.'

Review: A sizzling hotplate of previously unreleased, unauthorised edits from deep house hero Chez Damier, released in an unexpected act of dancefloor philanthropy. Regardless of the lack of information and apparent authorisation, 'Boot Germany' have collated four essential Damier cuts, from the cosy swang of 'Jabalou' to the stroboscopic drive of 'Take Me Away' via the timeless synth horn jack attack of 'Mix Masters' and the whimsically titled lounge trip 'Classic Piano'. Essential quick-draw record bag lingerers for discerning house heads.

Notes: Unbelievable "talking" wah effects!

The BOSS AW-3 Dynamic Wah pedal gives guitarists a wide range of classic auto-wah and dynamic wah effects, plus a new "Humanizer" effect which can simulate human vowel sounds. A Bass input provides a variety of funky wah sounds for bass guitar.

A "Talking" Pedal

The AW-3 Dynamic Wah is the first compact wah pedal to incorporate human voice-type sounds through a new "Humanizer" Mode. Of course, you can also choose from standard up-and-down wah effects, plus a Tempo Mode and resonant synth-like Sharp Mode.

Endless Possibilities

Choose from both fixed and auto wah settings using the Manual control or pedal for tempo input. By connecting an optional expression pedal, the AW-3 can also be used for Pedal Wah effects. A dedicated Bass input permits direct processing of bass guitars.

Specifications:

Nominal Input Level: -20 dBu
Input Impedance: 1 M ohm
Nominal Output Level: -20 dBu
Output Impedance: 1 k ohm
Recommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greater
Bypass: Buffered bypass

Controls:
MODE knob
SENS knob
MANUAL knob
DECAY knob
Pedal switch

Indicator: CHECK indicator (Used for indication of check battery)

Connectors:
GUITAR IN jack: 1/4-inch phone type
BASS IN jack: 1/4-inch phone type
OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
EXP/CTL jack: 1/4-inch phone type
DC IN jack

Power Supply:
Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61)
AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately)

Current Draw: 50 mA

Expected battery life under continuous use:
Alkaline: Approx. 8 hours
*These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.

Accessories:
Leaflet ("USING THE UNIT SAFELY," "IMPORTANT NOTES," and "Information")
Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61)
Options (sold separately):
AC adaptor: PSA series
Expression Pedal: EV-30/FV-500H/FV-500L, Roland EV-5
Footswitch(momentary-type): FS-5U/FS-6/FS-7

Size & weight

Width: 73 mm / 2-7/8 inches
Depth: 129 mm / 5-1/8 inches
Height: 59 mm / 2-3/8 inches
Weight (including battery): 430 g / 1 lb