Back catalogue: Funk Soul & Jazz

Review: Blockhead returns with a brilliant new album, weaving themes of death, afterlife and cyclical patterns through his signature sample-based sound. Known for his work with Aesop Rock and Ninja Tune, Blockhead has become a master at blending downtempo and upbeat styles across jazz, funk, blues and more. His ability to create expansive narratives without relying heavily on lyrics continues to thrill, using only a few vocal samples to guide the listener. The album explores life's natural endings with humor, irony and a touch of sarcasm, reflecting on the inevitable cycles that persist beyond individual experiences. Tracks like 'Earth's Farewell Tour' and 'They Got Therapy For That' offer introspection, while others, such as 'Dolphin Lundgren' and 'Burning Man in Tehran', provide joyful, quirky moments. Fans of Blockhead's work will appreciate the playful elements, with even a couple of tracks for the lovers. Not to be missed is the juxtaposition of Middle Eastern disco and festival vibes. The album is a perfect balance of humour and introspection as we reflect on cycles and endings.

Review: Blockhead is New York producer Tony Simon, a revered talent who has put out a wealth of crucial albums. They are all getting reissue treatment now as some are almost 20 years old, but they have weathered that time well. Music By Cavelight is another of his masterful takes on broken beat and nu-jazz and this one comes on nice orange-marbled wax. It peaked at number 43 on the UK Independent Albums Chart back in 2004 when it first landed and it only came to be on Nina Tune after its original label stopped answering the artist's calls.