Back catalogue: Rock

Review: Before Marc Bolan's untimely passing in 1977, T. Rex was a cultural whirlwind, an electric force that blurred the lines between glam rock and larger-than-life mythology. The band's influence during the early 70s reached levels that not only defined a generation but also cultivated the feverish phenomenon known as "Trextasy," rivaling even the mania of Beatlemania. Amid the hits that catapulted them into superstardom, hidden on the flipsides of their most famous singles, were some of Bolan's most vivid and unpredictable musical momentsitracks that now stand as an alternative narrative to the T. Rex story. This collection brings together 27 of these gems, charting a journey from the swaggering energy of 'Telegram Sam' to the reflective tones of 'Celebrate Summer.' These B-sides, often overlooked in favour of their A-side counterparts, show a different side to Bolan's genius. Many of these tracks, such as 'Cadillac,' 'Thunderwing,' and 'Lady,' could have easily stood on their own as hit singles, their impact only diminished by their position as B-sides. 'Born To Boogie' gets a newly discovered single mix, while 'Sunken Rags' offers an introspective side of Bolan that feels like a hidden treasure. The inclusion of Gloria Jones adds a fresh layer of soul to the proceedings, her voice a perfect foil to Bolan's otherworldly swagger. These tracks, strung together in one place, feel like an alternative history of T. Rex, highlighting the artistry that was often buried beneath the mainstream success. They not only reaffirm Bolan's stature as a visionary, but they also open up new pathways for the listener, offering an alternative lens through which to understand the full depth of his music.

Review: An absolute delight for Tears For Fears fans, this archival radio broadcast showcases the Bath band at the peak of their powers during a U.S tour in 1990. As was the fashion for decades, the concert - in Santa Barbara Bowl in California - was recorded for, and broadcast by, local radio station KROQ. It offers a snapshot of the outfit's career up to that point, flitting between evocative versions of genuine classics ('Head Over Heels/Broken', 'Mad World'), fan favourites ('Advice For The Young at Heart', 'Famous Last Words'), insopired covers (a storming run through of 'When The Saints Go Marching In', a loved-up interpretation of Beatles classic 'All You Need Is Love'), and extended versions of the band's most inspiring moments ('Everybody Wants To The Rule', 'Shout').