Proper レコード& CD

Review: It was in Glasgow in 1982 that Lloyd Cole found himself studying Philosophy and English at University. The Buxon born man used his spare time to form a band with The Commotions aka Blair Cowan, Lawrence Donegan, Neil Clark and Stephen Irvine and then wrote this magic pop record which had a distinctly arty twist and ensured Cole's intellectual reputation. It is rather haunting in atmosphere with crisp soft proto-indie rock sounds, shadowy synths and chilly hooks throughout. This timely reissue reminds what an overlooked mini classic it is and what an under represented talent Cole proved to be.

Review: English art and indie rockers Everything Everything made quite the impact with their debut album in 2010. The record went on to peak at number 17 in the UK album charts but announced them as masters of a number of different styles with math rock, r&b, hip-hop, electronica, baroque and choral music all drawn upon while singer Jonathan Higgs delivered his complex verses in a rhythmic, falsetto style. The album is repressed here as it was back then - though a deluxe version is also available on these pages - and reminds us just how good the band was at crafting intricate tunes.

Review: House Of Love's classic album Babe Rainbow gets a full reissue that wholly replicates the original version from 1992 on Fontana. The band initially formed in 1986 in South London and features vocalist Guy Chadwick, lead guitarist Terry Bickers, bassist Chris Groothuizen and drummer Pete Evans. Early on they were inspired by The Jesus And Mary Chain and soon found critical acclaim and commercial success with their self-titled debut becoming an instant indie-disco hit. Babe Rainbow came after lots of heavy touring and promotion saw Bickers leave the group to form Levitation and be replaced by Simon Walker. It features notable singles such as 'The Girl With The Loneliest Eyes' and live favourite 'Crush Me.'

Review: The Wedding Present's Watusi, often overshadowed by its predecessors, emerges as a hidden gem in their discography. Initially released amidst the frenzy of their Hit Parade singles, it suffered from being ahead of its time—a blend of pop hooks and Seattle underground influences that defied easy categorization. Yet, revisiting it at their Brighton event, 'Watusi' feels remarkably contemporary, its hypnotic melodies and nuanced instrumentation resonating with a neo-drone edge. While it may have been a hard sell in its era, the current lineup breathes new life into its subtle intelligence, unveiling its true brilliance. Overlooked but not forgotten, Watusi finally gets its due recognition as a key release from The Wedding Present, reaffirming its place in their storied career alongside 'Sea Monsters' and the Hit Parade singles.