B-STOCK: Sleeve split but otherwise in excellent condition
25 Kisses
Someone Else
Irresistible
I'm Not Moving
Say It Tomorrow
Back & Forth
Come Back To Me (If Only In Dreams)
Here's What I Know
Redemption Love
How Did This Happen & What Does It Now Mean
Now What
I Gave You My Keys
Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve split but otherwise in excellent condition***
Joan Armatrading's latest release is a rich collection of songs that showcases her impressive skill as both a songwriter and a musician. Each track blends thoughtful lyrics with her signature melodic style and there's a refreshing mix of full-band arrangements and stripped-back instrumentals. Her guitar work stands out, adding a raw edge to the songs, while her lyrics explore personal reflections and universal themes, as always with honesty and depth. It's a release that reaffirms her place as a long-time favourite, offering both a nod to her past and a new chapter in her musical journey.
Review: Joan Armatrading's latest release is a rich collection of songs that showcases her impressive skill as both a songwriter and a musician. Each track blends thoughtful lyrics with her signature melodic style and there's a refreshing mix of full-band arrangements and stripped-back instrumentals. Her guitar work stands out, adding a raw edge to the songs, while her lyrics explore personal reflections and universal themes, as always with honesty and depth. It's a release that reaffirms her place as a long-time favourite, offering both a nod to her past and a new chapter in her musical journey.
Review: 1995 saw the semi-controversial release of the final Tony Martin-era Black Sabbath album Forbidden, marking their 18th full-length overall. Reuniting the 1990 Tyr-era lineup with the re-enlisting of Neil Murray on bass and Cozy Powell on drums, the project was maligned upon release on both the critic and fan sides of reception, likely stemming from the unusual choice to have Ernie C of Body Count man the desk for production duties with bandmate Ice-T even providing the spoken word segment on the opening track 'The Illusion Of Time'. While in later years, Martin would consider the project a "filler album that got the band out of the label deal, rid of the singer, and into the reunion", based off the fact that guitarist Tony Iommi would reconcile with original frontman Ozzy Osborne not long after, that still doesn't alter the fact that the original lineup reunion effort 13 wouldn't arrive for practically another two full decades. Whatever your deeply held personal beliefs, they are those out there who still fly the flag for this peculiar era from the metal pioneers, so much so that the Anno Domini 1989-1995 box set release earlier in 2024 collates all of the Martin-era albums into one definitive collection while being freshly remastered by Tony Iommi himself in perhaps an internalised effort to undo the production choices many have highlighted as a major point of contention. This limited ultra clear pressing marks the first time since the release of said box set that Iommi's remaster of Forbidden has been made available for individual purchase.
Review: Following on from 1987's The Eternal Idol and 1989's Headless Cross, the very next year of 1990 would see the third full-length from Birmingham metal gods Black Sabbath to feature vocalist Tony Martin. Instructed to tone down the direct, in-your-face nature of the previous project's satanic lyrics, Martin looked toward Norse mythology for lyrical inspiration; a decision initially bewildering to guitarist and primary songwriter Tony Iommi. With the title Tyr, named after the son of Odin and the god of single combat and heroic glory, the band sought to seek out a new sonic identity to compliment the lyrical narratives, leading to what many fans consider to be the heaviest Sabbath album to date, while some bemoan that Cosy Powell's mammoth drumming utterly eclipses all other instruments. With the release of the Anno Domini 1989-1995 box set earlier this year which collates all albums from the Tony Martin-fronted era, this marks the first time any of these LPs have ever been reissued, and now with all albums being made separately available, the newly remastered Tyr does its utmost to restrain Powell's power and amp up everything else from the grooving riffage to the quintessential keyboard sections provided by perennial fifth member Geoff Nicholls. This would also be the last time this lineup would record together until 1995's Forbidden.
Review: Originally released in 1989, Headless Cross would serve as the second Tony Martin-era album from Birmingham metal pioneers Black Sabbath, following on from The Eternal Idol. Notably increasing the occult and satanic aspects to higher degrees than ever before, many heralded the work as a true return to form following the hard rock-centric turn of their latter material with Ozzy or throughout the majority of their Ronnie James Dio fronted run. With hefty, macabre riffage cloaked (and daggered) in shrouds of sonic gloom, the project would be the first to feature drummer Cozy Powell, while being their only full-length with session bassist Laurence Cottle. Marking the dawn of their deal with I.R.S. upon becoming disillusioned with the big major record labels, this criminally overlooked era of the band finally received its flowers in early 2024 with the release of the Anno Domini 1989-1995 box set which collates all the Tony Martin albums onto one fully remastered box set for many of the titles' first time ever made available on wax. This pressing offers the same updated, newly revitalised version, now being individually distributed.
Review: Here's a timely re-issue that reminds us all just how quickly time flies. Already alternative rap OGs by the time this first saw the light of day back in 2004, De La Soul brought together the hip-hop elite to collaborate on their seventh studio album. Featuring cameos and production from the likes of J Dilla, Madlib, 9th Wonder, Supa Dave West, and MF Doom, the LP was met with critical acclaim when released and continues to stand up nearly 20 years later. Nostalgic yet forward-thinking, the well-formed album includes plenty of high points. 'Shopping Bags' offers a cautionary tale flow over dusty beats with a mightily hooky chorus, 'Rock Co.Kane Flow' demonstrates the group's ability to evolve with the changing times, while the feel-good flex of the title track is a standout, hands-in-the-air classic.
Metal Will Never Die (feat Ronnie James Dio - bonus track) (5:18)
Prisoner Of Paradise (bonus track) (3:51)
Review: Originally released in 2012 and serving as the sequel to 2000's The Very Beast Of Dio greatest hits compilation which boasted choice cuts from the metal/rock icon's first six studio albums and live EP, Vol. 2 picks up right where its predecessor left off, covering the final four of the ten Dio full-lengths - Angry Machines (1996), Magica (2000), Killing The Dragon (2002), and Master Of The Moon (2004). Naturally devoid of peak prowess anthems such as 'Holy Diver', this collection is for the completionists, die-hards and those who actually paid enough attention throughout the years to mark the endearing amount of emotion and care that went into all of the output Ronnie James Dio would put his name on, all the way up his final years.
Review: The Retrospective: Selected Recordings 1973-2023 is a double vinyl album that offers a rich exploration of Bryan Ferry's remarkable solo journey. Spanning over five decades, this collection presents tracks from Ferry's career, illustrating his evolution as a solo artist. Each record in the set showcases a different aspect of Ferry's music, whether it's rock 'n' roll, refined pop, or jazz and blues influences. Highlights include original tracks like 'Slave To Love' and 'Don't Stop The Dance,' alongside stunning covers such as 'The Price of Love' and 'Song To The Siren.' The set also includes rare and unreleased gems, providing fans with a broader look at Ferry's extensive catalog. The included book offers a unique insight into Ferry's artistic legacy, further enhancing the experience. With its diverse selection including a few covers, this collection serves as a fitting tribute to Ferry's enduring impact on music, making it a valuable addition for those who appreciate his work.
Review: Originally released in 2005, and considered to be the second solo full-length from nine-fingered metal guitar pioneer Tony Iommi, Fused celebrates its 20th anniversary just a tad early with these revitalised remasters pressed to wax for the first time ever. Written in collaboration with vocalist/bassist Glenn Hughes (former Black Sabbath frontman during the mid-80s who would assume vocal duties on 1986's Seventh Star; released under the band moniker but long perceived as Iommi's first solitary creative endeavour), and legendary session drummer Kenny Aronoff (The Smashing Pumpkins, Bob Seger, Willie Nelson, John Fogerty, Bon Jovi etc), this limited translucent cobalt blue vinyl 2xLP pressing comes complete with three sporadically dispersed bonus cuts finally locked down onto own complete home.
TNT (Terror 'N Tinseltown) (LP1: Dr Feelgood remastered)
Dr Feelgood
Slice Of Your Pie
Rattlesnake Shake
Kickstart My Heart
Without You
Same Ol' Situation (SOS)
Sticky Sweet
She Goes Down
Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)
Time For Change
Dr Feelgood (LP2: The demo Recordings)
Get It For Free
Kickstart My Heart
Time For Change
Without You
Dr Feelgood (LP3: The live Recordings)
Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)
Without You
Kickstart My Heart
Same Ol' Situation (SOS)
Review: Motley Crue's Dr. Feelgood celebrates its 35th anniversary with a deluxe edition that captures the full power of their legendary 1989 release. Featuring hit singles like 'Kickstart My Heart', 'Dr. Feelgood', 'Don't Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)', 'Without You', and 'Same Ol' Situation (S.O.S.)', the album showcases the band's powerful blend of hard rock and glam metal. The title track, with its gritty guitar riffs and unforgettable chorus, set the tone for an album that would top the charts and solidify the Crue's status as rock icons and this anniversary edition offers a remastered version of the album along with rare demos, live tracks and exclusive memorabilia. The set includes a 24-page replica tour book, a replica tour itinerary, and a range of collectibles like posters, patches, and guitar picks. It brings listeners back to the band's two-year Dr. Feelgood World Tour, a defining moment in their career. Dr. Feelgood remains a landmark in rock history, blending rebellious energy with personal recovery themes, making it both timeless and relevant decades later.
Review: Fans will endlessly debate the creative high watermark of Motorhead's lengthy career, but there's no doubt that this album, their fourth, was the commercial peak of the trio. Originally released in 1980, with a wonderfuly spaghetti western cover shot doubtless shot in Camber Sands or somewhere similar, it reached number four in the UKalbum chart, at a time when physical sales were pretty close to an all time high. The album's title track is of course their ultimate calling card, from its iconic riff to its lyrical celebration of gambling one of the ultimate metaphors for a - or even the - rock and roll lifestyle. But its greay production job by Vic Maile means the band sound brighter and sharper here than ever before, the sessions doubtless seriously waking up the sleepy Herfordshire town of Rickmansworth where it was recorded. There's also a slew of memorable songs, naturally enough, from 'Love Me Like A Reptile' - who says romance is dead - to '(We Are) The Road Crew', the impossibly speedy two minute thrashout 'Bite The Bullet' and 'The Chase Is Better Than The Catch'. Gambling's for fools, as the song says, but this one is an odds on dead cert.
Review: Boom! The year of 1979 saw not one but two classic Motorhead albums being dropped like atomic bombs on an unsuspecting but appreciative public. After the Overkill LP really put the 'Head on the metal map earlier in the year, Bomber consolidated their position as, to quote Spinal Tap's slightly tongue in cheek compliment, one of Britain's loudest bands. In fact, their show at Port Vale in 1981 would appear in the Guinness Book of Records as the loudest ever. Of course, there is much more to them than sheer volume and firepower though. Frontman and bassist Lemmy had cut his teeth as a roadie for Jimi Hendrix and tracks like 'Lawman' follow a similar lineage of blending heavy, psychedelic blues with a genuinely groovy funkiness. When they're on top form the trio of Lemmy, guitarist Fast Eddie and Phil Taylor are a finely trained crack squad, pulling some deft musical moves and unexpected about turns, too. Virtuosity neatly disguised as utter barbarianism - just how we like it. The Bomb!
Review: The second studio album from metal behemoths Motorhead saw the trio - in their classic line up form of Lemmy (bass, vocals), Fast Eddie Clarke on guitar and Philthy Phil Taylor on drums - truly hit their stride. In probabality, this LP, originally released in 1979, produced the biggest crop of classics of any in their career, with 'No Class', 'Capricorn', 'Stay Clean' and 'Metropolis' all joining the title track in the ranks of songs that would remain staples of their live sets for literally deacdes to come. The year is significant, as Overkill marks the band harnessing the anarchic overtones of punk to their metal power, with plenty of lyrical attitude added to the sharp riffing, 747-like basslines and double kick drum onslaught. This reissue restores the original tracklisting without the frills and extras of the 2005 remaster, but when it's all as shitkicking as this, why mess?!
Review: Nena's second album, released in 1984 and now reissued on striking red vinyl, was a shift from the assertive sound of their debut, presenting a more romantic and introspective approach. The album cover, featuring a shadowy band photo against a black backdrop and a simple question mark as its title, hints at its deeper emotional themes. While the opening track 'Rette Mich' carries forward the energy of their first album, the overall mood embraces love and longing, with Nena's voice revealing a touching vulnerability. The music leans toward 70s Baroque rock, combined with the catchy simplicity of 80s pop, as all band members contribute to the songwriting, ensuring a rich tapestry of melodic sophistication. The title track, initially released as a mellow single, captures the emotional complexity of desire and resonated deeply with fans, further solidifying Nena's status in the German pop scene. Following the unexpected success of '99 Luftballons', which became a worldwide hit, this album helped elevate Nena and her band beyond the constraints of the Neue Deutsche Welle movement, marking them as a unique force in pop music history. Its timeless appeal ensures that Nena remains a classic in German music.
Review: One of the most divisive rock bands gigging today, Nickelback are easy targets and quite unfairly lampooned in the media. Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic famously came to their defence, stating that he loves them, which is a great endorsement and one we're inclined to agree with. They are a great power pop band. 'How You Remind Me' is - fact - one of the catchiest rock singles of the past 30 years and the band have endured and matured into one of the biggest rock bands of all time. This live album comes two years after the release of their chart-topping album Get Rollin'. They were touring in support of that album when they decided to professionally film and record one of the dates - their sold-out show on 1 August 2023 in Nashville. And it's a hit-laden feast: 'Photograph', 'Burn It To The Ground', 'Hero' and more. What's more: they brought out an array of guests; including: Bailey Zimmerman for 'Rockstar' and Chris Daughtry for 'Savin’ Me', making for a truly special evening.
Review: In 1984, Gary Numan launched Numa Records and started a new phase in his career with the release of Berserker. This album introduced a harder-edged digital sound into his canon while maintaining the analogue textures of his earlier work. It's a testament to the fact that Numan's creative evolution never stopped and blends both personal and fictional narratives into haunting tracks like 'My Dying Machine,' 'This Is New Love' and 'Berserker.' The remastered double vinyl edition includes the original album with bonus tracks that add extra perspective to this pivotal period in his career.
Review: Primal Scream's first new album in eight years, via BMG, following 2016's Chaosmosis, featuring the lead single 'Love Insurrection' which is currently doing the rounds. It's produced by David Holmes and includes cover art by Jim Lambie. The recording process began in 2019, with Bobby Gillespie initially crafting lyrics solo on an acoustic guitar. Encouraged by producer Holmes, the band recorded across Belfast, London and Los Angeles. Gillespie describes the album as embodying a theme of conflict and resilience, inspired by the Glaswegian term "come ahead," which signifies a defiant spirit. The album marks Primal Scream's first release since the passing of longtime member Martin Duffy in 2022. Come Ahead promises to blend the band's trademark evolution with fresh, bold sounds.
Review: Produced by David Holmes, who last worked with the band on 2013's More Light, the 11-track album represents a fresh chapter for the Scottish rock veterans, as well as their first new material in eight years. Bobby Gillespie is reportedly approached this record differently, crafting lyrics before music for the first time and relying on an acoustic guitar during the songwriting process. Gillespie describes the album as a reflection on conflictiboth internal and externalitinged with compassion. The title, a Glaswegian term, embodies the fierce and confident spirit of Glasgow, suggesting a defiant stance against adversity. The album's lead single, 'Love Insurrection,' previews this audacious energy. Come Ahead is the band's first release since the death of Martin Duffy in 2022. Duffy, a longtime collaborator, had contributed to every album since Screamadelica, though he had become estranged from the band over a rights dispute. Primal Scream, originally formed in 1982 by Gillespie and Jim Beattie, have continuously evolved from their indie pop roots into psychedelic, garage rock, dance music and then rock 'n' roll, making Come Ahead a compelling addition to their diverse discography.
King Tubby & Sciientist - "Chalice A Fe" (Dyb) (3:23)
Roots Radios - "Opposition" (dub) (3:45)
Sly & The Revolutionairies & Jah Thomas - "Cocaine" (3:48)
Joe Gibbs & The Professionals - "Ghetto Slum" (3:39)
Roots Radios - "Storming The Death Star" (3:00)
Dennis Brown, King Tubby & The Soul Syndicate - "No Conscience" (2:53)
Scientist & Roots Radios - "Gunshot" (3:19)
Ossie & The Revolutionaies - "War Of The Stars (Mr Know It AlL)" (7" mix) (2:40)
Dennis Boveell & The 4th Street Orchestra - "Go Deh" (3:09)
The Revolutionaies - "Thompson Sound Incorporated" (3:32)
Joe Gibbs & The Professionals - "Pope Phyias" (The Selassie I Cup version) (3:02)
Sly & The Revolutionairies & Jah Thomas - "Marijuana" (2:43)
Review: Ras Jammy from Suns of Dub has curated a special release for Trojan Records that celebrates the deep cultural and historical ties between dub music and cannabis, all rooted in Jamaican music and Rastafarianism. This album, which arrives just in time for the stoners' best day of the year, 420, features iconic tracks from pioneering dub dons King Tubby, Scientist, Dennis Bovell and Roots Radics. These are the legends that helped shape the genre and this compilation highlights how they did it and what influence they had on the development of dub music. So, when the day comes, light up a fat one and turn this one up loud.
Review: Originally released in 1984 and celebrating its 40th anniversary with this lush black & red splattered vinyl reissue, Out Of The Cellar was the debut full-length from glam metal staple Ratt, often listed in the pantheon of pioneering hair-centric rockers along with Poison and Warrant. Their highest charting album, certified triple Platinum in the US, boasts easily their biggest hit single with 'Round & Round', while also offering some equally adored fan favourites such as 'Wanted Man' and 'Lack Of Communication'. This anniversary edition also comes complete with a bonus neon orange vinyl 7" featuring the unreleased B-side bonus track 'Reach For The Sky', recorded during the band's 1983 album sessions.
Review: Originally released in 1992, the fifth full-length from the German thrash metal pioneers marked a notable embracing of more modern metallic composition, pulling from the burgeoning death metal sound to help sharpen their sonic assault. What resulted was a band who originally formed in 1981 proving they could still go riff for riff with any of their more youthful contemporaries with a barrage of their most frenetic, fast-paced speed-thrash up to that point in their career. Their final effort with founding drummer Chris Witchhunter, the LP also marked the debut of guitarist Andy Brings and now comes home newly remastered and spread out across a lush red vinyl 2xLP.
Review: The Sound were a band ahead of their time, and All Fall Down stands as their definitive contribution to their legacy. Despite facing commercial pressures from their label, Adrian Borland and the band stayed true to their artistic vision, delivering a masterpiece of post-punk melancholy and timeless songwriting. The album's ten tracks, marked by a sense of longing and introspection, showcase Borland's poetic lyricism and emotive vocals, from the haunting beauty of 'Monument' to the raw energy of 'Red Paint,' each song leaving a lasting impression. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, All Fall Down remains a hidden gem for those who appreciate music that speaks to the soul.
Review: The Sound's second album, From The Lions Mouth, solidified their stature as post-punk legends, despite their lack of mainstream recognition. Produced by Hugh Jones, the album exhibits a fuller sound compared to its predecessor, Jeopardy, while maintaining the band's atmospheric edge. Tracks like 'Winning' confront life's challenges with resilience, setting the tone for the album's introspective yet determined themes. The record effortlessly navigates between dynamic tracks like 'Fatal Flaw' and the atmospheric 'Silent Air,s shows the band's versatility and emotional depth. Adrian Borland's songwriting evokes a sense of loneliness tempered with a glimmer of hope, resonating with listeners even decades later. From The Lions Mouth stands as a timeless masterpiece of the new wave era, offering a poignant exploration of personal struggles and resilience. Despite their lack of commercial success, The Sound's influence on the underground music scene remains undeniable, cementing their place among post-punk icons. The album's reissue, with its spectacular sound quality and subtle inclusion of hidden gems like 'Hothouse,' pays homage to Borland's vision and the band's enduring legacy.
Review: Jeopardy is the debut studio album by English post-punk band the Sound, released in November 1980 via Korova. This being the heyday of the commercial music format, the album was released with the expectation of high chart performance, though it flopped on that front. Despite the anticlimax, Jeopardy went down in time as a dark post-punk paragon, invariably lauded by the small crock of critics who did hear it; this pattern would go onto be matched by the overall critical success of the Sound as a a band. The album's neo-noir, paranoiac hooks and exclamatory vocals make up its core aesthetic, though there is something truly authentic, an 'it' factor, that makes Jeopardy unique unto its own; its rapacious compositions, tight melodies and moments of toothy brightness add to this aura; it's as if they paved a hidden way for the more talented of South London bands of today.
Review: Spiritbox returns with a sophomore effort that builds on the band's explosive trajectory. Following their chart-topping debut and Grammy-nominated EP, the band dives deeper into their signature sound, a visceral blend of metalcore intensity and soaring melodicism. Co-produced by Mike Stringer and Dan Braunstein, 'Tsunami Sea' showcases a band firing on all cylinders, their musicality and songwriting prowess reaching new heights. Tracks like 'Soft Spine' and 'Perfect Soul' demonstrate Spiritbox's ability to seamlessly blend crushing riffs with ethereal vocals and intricate arrangements. This is an album that demands to be heard.
Review: Dudu Tassa is one of Israel's top rock stars and here he honours his heritage as the grandson of the great Daoud Al Kuwaiti, half of the legendary Al Kuwaiti Brothers, who were icons of Arabic music from the 1930s to 1950s. He does so by modernising their classic recordings and creating a new, unique fusion of sound that has led to him performing at Coachella and supporting Radiohead on a U.S. tour. This new album edition includes a bonus track, 'Ala Shawati Dijlah Mur,' featuring Iraqi singer-composer Karrar Alsaadi. This is worldly, transportive music that travels through time and cultures with an inescapable underlying groove.
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