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Vijan, originally released in 2003 by I Grade Records, is a seminal release from the “golden era” of St. Croix roots reggae, now available for the first time on 12” vinyl courtesy of Before Zero Records.

Produced by the legendary combination of Vaughn Benjamin and Laurent “Tippy I” Alfred, Vijan balances the raw, spiritual intensity of Vaughn’s songwriting with the sophisticated, melodic arrangements that became the hallmark of the I Grade sound.

This album features an incredible lineup of musicians who helped shape the sound of Virgin Islands reggae. The production credits boast the textured guitar layers of Tuff Lion , the deep, driving bass of Kenyatta Itola , and the rhythmic precision of Dion “Bosie” Hopkins. Uniquely, this album also showcases Vaughn Benjamin’s versatility as a multi-instrumentalist, contributing drums, bass, and keys on standout tracks like “All Ye Naashan” and “Thanks for Life”.

Akae Beka’s inimitable style of rich, deep, multi-layered songwriting and uncompromising devotion to RasTafari is on full display here. At the point of his untimely passing in 2019, Vaughn Benjamin had released over 70 albums, solidifying his place as one of the most prolific reggae artists ever known. Vijan remains
a glowing highlight in this expansive catalogue, capturing a specific moment of creative brilliance in the early 2000s.

The vinyl reissue allows listeners to engage with the album’s analogue richness and features the striking original artwork by Marcus Wilson, presented here as a 12” square masterpiece.

Laconic Zero is a one man music machinery aka Trond Harald Jensen. Utilizing Commodore 64 programming combined with a heavy wall of distorted bass, Laconic Zero produce complex dagger-stabs of metaldriven chiptunes. Sun to Death is a killer presented on smoked orange vinyl, CD and Cassette. Laconic Zero has shared stages with Lighning Bolt, the famed Sonic Youth and Swans producer Martin Bisi and collaborated with the late music prodigy Joey Hopkins.

Halina Rice is a London-based electronic music artist known for her groundbreaking approach to music production and live performance.Rice has established herself as a leading figure in the contemporary electronic scene, blending complex soundscapes with immersive visual elements.

Her previous releases have been praised for their innovative use of technology and emotional depth, earning her a dedicated following around the world.

UNREALITY is the latest installment in the NEW WOLRDS series where each track is considered as the creation of a unique environment using textured synths, warped sound design and underpinned by a beat-driven dance sensibility.

Rice has toured the album extensively across the UK and Europe with sold out headline shows as well as festival appearances on the lineup with artists such as Jon Hopkins, Max Cooper and Rival Consoles.

Press coverage for the album includes Mundane Mag, Narc Magazine and previous support for the artist project includes feture length articles in Electronic Sound Magazine, DJ Mag, Mixmag, Decoded, Earmilk and Headphone Commute.

"Rice is part of a frontier movement of like-minded artists who twist, transform and manipulate the hallmarks of electronic dance music and visual accompaniments into exciting new shapes"

Electronic Sound Magazine

Get ready to trim your tree with a rollicking mix of mid-century Rhythm & Blues holiday gems. This vinyl is packed with everything from soulful longing to boisterous celebration, featuring legendary artists like Charles Brown's heart-wrenching "Please Come Home for Christmas" and the Dominoes' gorgeous "Christmas in Heaven" with a young Jackie Wilson on vocals. Dive into the bluesy mischief of Jimmy Butler's playful "Trim Your Tree" and the fiery gospel of Marvin Williams' "When Was Jesus Born." From the sweet soul stomp of Big Dee Irwin & Little Eva's "I Wish You a Merry Christmas" to Lightnin' Hopkins' funky "Happy New Year," each track captures a unique holiday spirit. This lively collection is sure to be a December favourite, filled with both cheer and heartbreak, grit and grace_an unforgettable Christmas party on vinyl!

180 Gram Vinyl Celebrate the holiday season with this fiery collection of vintage R&B, gospel, and soul, guaranteed to bring the Christmas spirit to life! This vinyl release features a handpicked lineup of legends like Chuck Berry, Sonny Boy Williamson, and Charles Brown, delivering everything from foot-stomping hits to soulful serenades. Highlights include Freddy King's heartfelt "Christmas Tears," Lightnin' Hopkins' gritty "Merry Christmas," Carla Thomas' soulful "All I Want For Christmas Is You," and the lively classic "Run Rudolph Run." With rare holiday gems spanning raw blues, swinging gospel, and smooth soul, this album is the ultimate soundtrack for a cool Yule.

Pink vinyl. Get ready to trim your tree with a rollicking mix of mid-century Rhythm & Blues holiday gems. This vinyl is packed with everything from soulful longing to boisterous celebration, featuring legendary artists like Charles Brown's heart-wrenching "Please Come Home for Christmas" and the Dominoes' gorgeous "Christmas in Heaven" with a young Jackie Wilson on vocals. Dive into the bluesy mischief of Jimmy Butler's playful "Trim Your Tree" and the fiery gospel of Marvin Williams' "When Was Jesus Born." From the sweet soul stomp of Big Dee Irwin & Little Eva's "I Wish You a Merry Christmas" to Lightnin' Hopkins' funky "Happy New Year," each track captures a unique holiday spirit. This lively collection is sure to be a December favourite, filled with both cheer and heartbreak, grit and grace_an unforgettable Christmas party on vinyl!

180 Gram, Yellow Vinyl Celebrate the holiday season with this fiery collection of vintage R&B, gospel, and soul, guaranteed to bring the Christmas spirit to life! This vinyl release features a handpicked lineup of legends like Chuck Berry, Sonny Boy Williamson, and Charles Brown, delivering everything from foot-stomping hits to soulful serenades. Highlights include Freddy King's heartfelt "Christmas Tears," Lightnin' Hopkins' gritty "Merry Christmas," Carla Thomas' soulful "All I Want For Christmas Is You," and the lively classic "Run Rudolph Run." With rare holiday gems spanning raw blues, swinging gospel, and smooth soul, this album is the ultimate soundtrack for a cool Yule.

Internet's favourite music critic and Youtube star Anthony Fontana aka Needledrop has gotten a liking to the Grande Mahogany vinyl & digital album 'As Grande As'. The bald funny guy has been raving about the album to his millions Youtube, TikTok and Instagram follower on several occasions, also covering the record in his 'one of the great albums of 2024' round up.

The album is also already making waves in the UK with continuous plays on BBC Radio 1 by Jazz Supernova and BBC Radio 6 by Cerys Matthews as well as the New Music Fix show.

If this is the first time you're hearing about Grande Mahogany, now is the time. Behind the alter ego of Grande Mahogany is Finnish-Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist Jesse Essel, who relocated with his family from Finland to Manchester, England, at the age of 11. It was in Manchester where Essel found his own style, drawing inspiration from the city's diverse music scene.

Grande Mahogany's unique blend of Funk, Rock, Afro-Psychedelia, and R&B has already garnered international interest. Singles from the album, such as "Angle of The Dangle," "Thundercurls," and "SUPER ROCKER," have caught the attention of prominent music critics, for example Anthony Fantano of Needledrop.

"As Grande As" stands as a testament to relentless creativity and perseverance, much of it crafted during tumultuous times. It invites listeners to embrace its raw authenticity, serving as a chronicle of the artist's journey towards unfiltered expression. Mastered by Guy Davie, whose credits include work with Kaytranada, Jon Hopkins, and Mikael Kiwanuka, the album ensures a high-quality sonic experience.

Barry Can't Swim veröffentlicht sein mit Spannung erwartetes neues Album, „Loner“ auf Ninja Tune!

In „Loner“ sehen wir Barry Can't Swim dabei zu, wie er die Welt, in der er sich befindet, erkundet. Geprägt vom überwältigenden Erfolg von Barry Can't Swims ausverkauften Liveshows auf der ganzen Welt, bleibt es seinen Wurzeln verhaftet, während er über Identität und Bodenständigkeit nachdenkt. Barry Can’t Swims hochgelobtes Debütalbum, „When Will We Land?“, das im Oktober 2023 veröffentlicht wurde und derzeit mehr als 100 Millionen Streams verzeichnet, erhielt unendlich viel Lob, darunter auch die Nominierung für den Mercury Music Prize 2024, neben Künstler:innen wie Charli xcx, Beth Gibbons, English Teacher, Ghetts und The Last Dinner Party. Barry Can’t Swim ist nun stolz darauf, neben Aphex Twin, Nia Archives, Burial, Jamie xx, Fred again.. oder Jon Hopkins als in die engere Auswahl für den prestigeträchtigen Preis gekommen zu sein - was als elektronischer Solokünstler eher seltener vorkommt. Darüber hinaus wurde er bei den BRIT Awards 2024 in der Kategorie „Dance Act“ nominiert und stand auf der Shortlist für das schottische Album des Jahres.

Barry Can't Swim veröffentlicht sein mit Spannung erwartetes neues Album, „Loner“ auf Ninja Tune!

In „Loner“ sehen wir Barry Can't Swim dabei zu, wie er die Welt, in der er sich befindet, erkundet. Geprägt vom überwältigenden Erfolg von Barry Can't Swims ausverkauften Liveshows auf der ganzen Welt, bleibt es seinen Wurzeln verhaftet, während er über Identität und Bodenständigkeit nachdenkt. Barry Can’t Swims hochgelobtes Debütalbum, „When Will We Land?“, das im Oktober 2023 veröffentlicht wurde und derzeit mehr als 100 Millionen Streams verzeichnet, erhielt unendlich viel Lob, darunter auch die Nominierung für den Mercury Music Prize 2024, neben Künstler:innen wie Charli xcx, Beth Gibbons, English Teacher, Ghetts und The Last Dinner Party. Barry Can’t Swim ist nun stolz darauf, neben Aphex Twin, Nia Archives, Burial, Jamie xx, Fred again.. oder Jon Hopkins als in die engere Auswahl für den prestigeträchtigen Preis gekommen zu sein - was als elektronischer Solokünstler eher seltener vorkommt. Darüber hinaus wurde er bei den BRIT Awards 2024 in der Kategorie „Dance Act“ nominiert und stand auf der Shortlist für das schottische Album des Jahres.

On limited double vinyl (500 ) with a download -

With Limited Edition A4 Heavy-Weight Space Art print (First 100 Copies Online) Signed & Numbered By Jon Savage (CTRUE48) Original Cover Artwork By Matt Sewell.

Jon Savage's Space - An amazing musical voyage through the theme and idea of Space - music for Space - Space - Music - Through West-Coast US Rock , Techno, Post-Punk , Jazz, Ambient & Experimental sounds-this is a journey like no other .. From Sun Ra to Mr Fingers and way beyond.

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"We are taken to less familiar musical quadrants-fascinatedly & instructively so"

(Roy Wilkinson - MOJO Feb 2025)

After a 30-year interstellar silence, the enigmatic producer Alien Signal—pioneering alias of Italian electronic composer Alex Silvi—reemerges with Whispers from Distant Suns, a transcendent odyssey that bridges retro-futurism and modern electronica. Hailed as a magnum opus, this album transcends genre boundaries, captivating ambient purists, downtempo aficionados, and even experimental listeners with its hypnotic fusion of analog warmth and digital precision.

Cosmic Tapestry of Sound
Drawing comparisons to Vangelis’ Antarctica and Alpha—but reimagined through a 21stcentury lens—Whispers from Distant Suns marries nostalgic synth textures with cuttingedge production. Silvi’s mastery of melody shines through in tracks like “Stardust
Memories” and “Fragile Eden” where shimmering arpeggios and celestial pads drift over robotic, glitch-infused drum patterns and sparse, meditative percussion. The result is a paradox: a retro-futuristic soundscape that feels simultaneously ancient and alien, familiar yet unexplored.

Listener Testimonials
Fans and critics have flooded forums with praise:

“An auditory revelation! It’s like Vangelis met Jon Hopkins in a nebula—vintage soul with a futuristic heartbeat.”
“The textures are gorgeously cinematic. Closing your eyes, you’re adrift in a Tarkovsky film scored for the Andromeda galaxy.”

The Vinyl Experience
Pressed on heavyweight vinyl, the album’s physical release amplifies its immersive qualities. The gatefold sleeve, adorned with surrealist astrophotography and metallic
foiling, mirrors the music’s cosmic ethos. Side A leans into Balearic serenity, with sundappled grooves and aquatic synth ripples, while Side B delves into darker, more
experimental terrain—think Aphex Twin’s Selected Ambient Works colliding with the organic rhythms of Jon Hopkins.

Maturity in Motion
This album is a testament to Silvi’s evolution. Tracks like “Seeds Of Light” and “Message from Andromeda Galaxy” showcase his refined ear for dynamics, balancing silence and sound with surgical precision. Vintage drum machines spar with glitches, while field recordings of crashing waves and interstellar static blur the line between Earth and cosmos. The closing track, “The Star Charts We Shared” crescendos into a 6-minute ambient requiem, leaving listeners suspended in a state of weightless awe.

Final Transmission
Whispers from Distant Suns is more than an album—it’s a transcendent odyssey. Spanning time, space, and the artist’s own creative evolution, this immersive work invites listeners to lose themselves in its ebb and flow. Designed for moments both intimate and expansive, its balearic-tinged atmospheres resonate equally through dawnlit Mediterranean terraces or the solitary glow of headphones in darkness. These are compositions that pulse, morph, and haunt the air long after the final note fades. A living soundscape meant to accompany life’s quiet revelations and clandestine joys—a soundtrack to your most personal moments, crafted as what the artist calls ‘private dance music.’

Tailored for the Discerning Listener
Whispers from Distant Suns is designed with the true connoisseur in mind. This album is a must-have for:

Vinyl Collectors & Audiophiles: Those who value the warmth and tactile experience of heavyweight, limited edition pressings
Electronic Ambient and Downtempo Fans: Listeners who appreciate immersive soundscapes that merge retro analog charm with modern digital innovation.
Retro-Futurism Enthusiasts: Fans of pioneering artists like Vangelis, Boards of Canada, and early Warp Records who seek music that bridges nostalgic synth textures with futuristic experimentation.
Experimental Music Explorers: Individuals drawn to sonic narratives that invite deep, contemplative listening—perfect for both introspective moments and immersive listening sessions.
This release is not just an album; it’s a curated experience for those who desire music as a multidimensional art form, merging the vintage allure of analog sound with a contemporary, cosmic vision.

For fans of: Vangelis, Biosphere, Jon Hopkins, early Warp Records.

Die Londoner Experimentalisten Kinkajous releasen ihr neues Album auf dem Nottinghamer Label Running Circle. "Nothing Will Disappear" ist Ambient-Maximalismus in seiner subtilsten und zartesten Form. Anklänge an Floating Points und subtile Klangfarben-Shifts á la Jon Hopkins und James Holden sind deutlicher zu erkennen als bei anderen zeitgenössischen Jazzacts. Die beiden Vorgänger "Hidden Lines" (2019) und "Being Waves" (2021) sind Paradebeispiele für ihre Mischung aus analoger, akustischer und orchestraler Instrumentierung und schafften es beide in zahlreiche Jahresendlisten.

Von CLASH als "ein wichtiger Teil der britischen Musiklandschaft" beschrieben, beziehen Kinkajous ihre Inspiration aus Orchester-, Instrumental- und elektronischer Musik und sind für ihren fesselnden und filmreifen Sound bekannt. Angeführt von Schlagzeuger/Produzent Benoît Parmentier und Saxophonist Adrien Cau, können sie mit einer beeindruckenden Besetzung aufwarten, zu der auch Keyboarder Jack Doherty und Bassist Andres Castellanos gehören. Die mutigen neuen Räume, in die Kinkajous vorgedrungen ist, kommen gut an, mit ausverkauften Headliner-Shows im Londoner Jazz Café und King's Place, neben einer gigantischen Zusammenarbeit im letzten Winter mit dem London Contemporary Orchestra im Londoner Earth Theatre und Auftritten bei den Bluedot und EFG London Jazz Festivals.

Stars align and Oli Heffernan brings his ever-(d)evolving Ivan The Tolerable to Riot Season for two LPs of sublime entropic drift.
Having this time recruited Christian Alderson (The Unit Ama) on drums, John Pope (Ponyland) on double bass, Kevin Nickles (Ecstatic Vision) on flute and saxophone and Ben Hopkinson on electric piano - both works were recorded as a quintet almost instantaneously, the players barely brushing or breathing a note before the whole thing was done.

The first LP, Vertigo, is all claustrophobic, dense and disorientating - like Sun Ra sitting in with Exploding Star Orchestra
Whereas the second LP, Water Music, is the music of lapping waves, becalmed, creaking hulls, circling birds and gentle winds. - Equal parts Laraaji and Natural Information Society
Bob Fischer (Electronic Sound Magazine) on ‘Water Music’
"A summer's afternoon daydream of an album. Beautifully soothing psychedelic jazz overflowing with raga delights...immerse yourself in its charms"

John Hubner (Complex Distractions) on ‘Vertigo’
“An expansive collection of free-flowing sound and mood bringing to mind Coltrane (John and Alice) as well as the great Albert Aylor, while touching on the forward thinking compositions of Rob Mazurek's Exploding Star Orchestra. From the titanic soundscape of "New Worlds On Earth" to the Marc Moulin touches of "Liquid Voices" and the mysterious eccentricities of "Swimming", 'Vertigo' hangs in the air long after the final note plays.”

Nach Funk, Soul und Reggae entdecken Sie in der neuen Ausgabe der Greatest Hits-Sammlung alle Blues-Hits. Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, BB King, John Lee Hooker... Die größten und legendärsten Bluesmusiker auf einer schönen Vinyl 2LP

A RADICAL HORIZON is comprised of a series of duets between cellist Lori Goldston and pianist Stefan Christoff, recorded on a late Fall afternoon in Brooklyn, NY. A conversation between friends, these improvised excursions reflect a willingness to be open to the spirits in the space and between the notes; a spirit of communion that, as Stefan writes, "guides and dances with our dialogue together".

Stefan Christoff is a Canadian musician, community organizer, and journalist based in Montreal, Quebec. He has collaborated with artists such as Sam Shalabi and Adriana Camacho, performs with his brother Jordan as a duo in Anarchist Mountains, and has released music on labels such as Moon Villain, Shimmering Moods, and Aural Canyon.

A lifelong community activist, he helped establish the Musicians For Palestine project and has engaged in street-level solidarity work in Lebanon and The Philippines as well as closer to home in Montreal. This is his second appearance on Beacon Sound after 'In Sofia', an album of piano improvisations recorded in Bulgaria, was released on the label in 2023.

Classically trained and rigorously de-trained, possessor of a restless, semi-feral spirit, Lori Goldston is a cellist, composer, improvisor, producer, writer and teacher from Seattle. Her voice as a cellist, amplified or acoustic, is full, textured, committed and original. A relentless inquirer, her work drifts freely across borders that separate genre, discipline, time and geography.

Current and former collaborators and/or bosses include Earth, Nirvana, Mirah, Jessika Kenney, Ilan Volkov, Eyvind Kang, Stuart Dempster, David Byrne, Terry Riley, Jherek Bischoff, Malcom Goldstein, Steve Von Till, Lonnie Holley, Cat Power, Ellen Fullman, Maya Dunietz, Mik Quantius, Embryo, O Paon, Tara Jane O’Neil, Natacha Atlas, Broken Water, Ed Pias, Christian Rizzo and Sophie Laly, Threnody Ensemble, Cynthia Hopkins, 33 Fainting Spells, Vanessa Renwick, Mark Mitchell, Lynn Shelton, and many more.

Her work has been commissioned by and/or performed at the Kennedy Center, Sydney Festival, Cineteca Nacional de México, Tectonics Festival, Frye Art Museum, Time Based Art Festival (TBA), WNYC, The New Foundation, Paris Fashion Week, Northwest Film Forum, On the Boards, Seattle International Film Festival, Seattle Jewish Film Festival, Bumbershoot, Crossing Border Festival, Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, Joe’s Pub, the Stone, University of Chicago, and venues large and small throughout North America, Mexico, Australia, and Europe.

Die Londoner Experimentalisten Kinkajous releasen ihr neues Album auf dem Nottinghamer Label Running Circle. "Nothing Will Disappear" ist Ambient-Maximalismus in seiner subtilsten und zartesten Form. Anklänge an Floating Points und subtile Klangfarben-Shifts á la Jon Hopkins und James Holden sind deutlicher zu erkennen als bei anderen zeitgenössischen Jazzacts. Die beiden Vorgänger "Hidden Lines" (2019) und "Being Waves" (2021) sind Paradebeispiele für ihre Mischung aus analoger, akustischer und orchestraler Instrumentierung und schafften es beide in zahlreiche Jahresendlisten.

Von CLASH als "ein wichtiger Teil der britischen Musiklandschaft" beschrieben, beziehen Kinkajous ihre Inspiration aus Orchester-, Instrumental- und elektronischer Musik und sind für ihren fesselnden und filmreifen Sound bekannt. Angeführt von Schlagzeuger/Produzent Benoît Parmentier und Saxophonist Adrien Cau, können sie mit einer beeindruckenden Besetzung aufwarten, zu der auch Keyboarder Jack Doherty und Bassist Andres Castellanos gehören. Die mutigen neuen Räume, in die Kinkajous vorgedrungen ist, kommen gut an, mit ausverkauften Headliner-Shows im Londoner Jazz Café und King's Place, neben einer gigantischen Zusammenarbeit im letzten Winter mit dem London Contemporary Orchestra im Londoner Earth Theatre und Auftritten bei den Bluedot und EFG London Jazz Festivals.

Julian Dawson feiert am 04. Juli seinen siebzigsten Geburtstag und nimmt die Gelegenheit wahr, dies mit vielen Musikerinnen und Musikern zu tun, mit denen er im Laufe seiner über 40jährigen Karriere zusammenarbeiten konnte. Ein bunter Mix von neuen Songs, bisher Unveröffentlichtem und Klassikern, die Dawson mit seiner Band um ein paar neue Zutaten bereichert hat. Unter anderem singt er zusammen mit Lucinda Williams "How can I sleep without you" in einer neuen Version. Das Original war 1991 ein Single-Hit in Deutschland. Weiterhin gibt es ein Stück mit Nicky Hopkins, dessen Klavierpart der legendäre Sessionmusiker kurz vor seinem Tod einspielte, sowie eine Coverversion des NDW-Hits "Codo", für den Dawson seine alten Weggefährten Stoppok und Wolfgang Niedecken gewinnen konnte.

At the muddy miracle that was Woodstock, the most miraculous performance just might have been Jefferson Airplane’s. The band had been one of the first to sign on for the festival, their imprimatur prompting many other acts to hop on board, and their stature had landed them a coveted headlining slot closing Saturday night’s schedule. But, as the torrential downpours and the unexpected crush of half a million people kept on delaying their set, the chances of putting on anything approaching a quality performance seemed to diminish.

According to Paul Kantner, “We were supposed to go on at 10:30 at night and we’d been up and down about four or five times on acid that night, getting ready to go on, and then everything was delayed for whatever reasons. So, we didn’t get on until like 7:00 the next morning and everybody was pretty much burned out.” Kantner’s protestations to the contrary, the Airplane (with guest pianist Nicky Hopkins in tow) played a scorching two-hour set that defied the elements and the circumstances. Grace Slick led the charge as the band plunged into a frenetic version of Fred Neil’s “The Other Side of This Life”: “Alright, friends, you have seen the heavy groups. Now you will see morning maniac music. Believe me, yeah. It’s a new dawn!” What followed was an adventuresome (and surprisingly tight) set that not only featured the band’s big hits like “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love” but also premiered songs from the Volunteers album that was still three months away from being released, including a 21-minute version of “Wooden Ships!” Indeed, about the only members of the crew who weren’t up to snuff were the ones filming the concert documentary, which explains why the Airplane is not one of the acts that commonly come to mind when thinking about Woodstock; they didn’t appear in the film due to subpar footage, and only one of their songs (“Volunteers”) was included the chart-topping 3-LP Woodstock release.

Now, Real Gone Music is proud to present Jefferson Airplane’s complete Woodstock performance. The 3-LP set comes inside a gorgeous, double-gatefold jacket sporting photos of the band at Woodstock, most of them taken by the legendary Henry Diltz; liner notes by folk-rock guru Richie Unterberger complete the package. Pressed in iridescent, “clouds breaking” blue for its 55th anniversary, this release makes a convincing claim that Jefferson Airplane’s Woodstock performance ranks right up there with those of Jimi, Sly, and Santana as a festival highlight. Limited to 1000 copies!

Limited edition 300 only cyan coloured vinyl LP, housed in a reverse board sleeve with hype sticker, polylined inner bag and download code. Non-Returnable.
Stars align and Oli Heffernan brings his ever-(d)evolving Ivan The Tolerable to Riot Season for two LPs of sublime entropic drift.
Having this time recruited Christian Alderson (The Unit Ama) on drums, John Pope (Ponyland) on double bass, Kevin Nickles (Ecstatic Vision) on flute and saxophone and Ben Hopkinson on electric piano - both works were recorded as a quintet almost instantaneously, the players barely brushing or breathing a note before the whole thing was done.
‘Vertigo’, is all claustrophobic, dense and disorientating - like Sun Ra sitting in with Exploding Star Orchestra
John Hubner (Complex Distractions) on ‘Vertigo’
“An expansive collection of free-flowing sound and mood bringing to mind Coltrane (John and Alice) as well as the great Albert Ayler, while touching on the forward thinking compositions of Rob Mazurek's Exploding Star Orchestra.
From the titanic soundscape of "New Worlds On Earth" to the Marc Moulin touches of "Liquid Voices" and the mysterious eccentricities of "Swimming", 'Vertigo' hangs in the air long after the final note plays.”

Next up on co:clear – a somewhat new direction for London-based producer, Box5ive. Perhaps an artist more usually associated with trudging, UK-bass divagations (via contributions to Panel Audio and Well Street Records), his debut LP ensues a wistful gear change that speeds straight through the apex of your serotonin receptors.

Caressed by synths that cry euphoric tears, ‘Grey Space’ is a full-length trip that fuses adept drum programming with serenading melody, offering a majestic listening experience that glides amongst emo-bient clouds and free falls into dazzling electronica.

RIYL: Malibu, Jon Hopkins, Nils Frahm

„Prism Of Pleasure“ wurde in 18 Monaten geschrieben und fasst Elkkas Wesen als eine LGBTQI+-Künstler:in zusammen, die Freiheit und Sinnlichkeit in den Vordergrund ihrer Arbeit stellt. Das war nicht immer so: Geboren und aufgewachsen in Südwales, wo es so gut wie keine Queer-Community in ihrer unmittelbaren Umgebung gab, musste Elkka ihre Identität langsam und neugierig zusammensetzen und dabei allmählich zu sich selbst finden. Nachdem sie sich geoutet hatte und in ihren 20ern nach London zog, begann die Musikerin mit dem Auflegen, Schreiben und Produzieren, was schließlich dazu führte, dass sie ihr eigenes Plattenlabel, femme culture, gründete und ihre eigenen queeren Clubnächte veranstaltete. „Prism Of Pleasure“ ist wie ein weiblicher Blick in einen dampfenden Raum voller Wunder (ein Konzept, das sich wunderbar im pinkfarbenen Albumcover widerspiegelt, das von Elkkas Frau und langjähriger kreativer Mitarbeiterin Alex Lambert fotografiert wurde), das sich um den Begriff der queeren Intimität dreht. Von den sanften, seidigen Vocals von „Crushhh“ bis zu den sich langsam entwickelnden, gehauchten Beats von „Your Skin“ („I'm breathing you in, I want to taste every inch of your skin“) und den gleichmäßigen, wogenden Synthesizer-Mustern von „surrender2me“ entfaltet sich „Prism Of Pleasure“ wie ein Patchwork aus schweißtreibenden Nächten, emotionaler Verbundenheit und versteckten Freuden. Elkka wurde von vielen Kolleg:innen unterstützt, darunter Four Tet, Floating Points, TSHA, Caribou, Sofia Kourtesis, Jon Hopkins, Ben UFO und SHERELLE, und gewann kürzlich einen AIM Award in der Kategorie „Bester Remix“ für ihre Überarbeitung von Ela Minus' „Megapunk“. Letztes Jahr veröffentlichte Elkka eine 4-Track-EP mit energiegeladenen Club-Tools unter dem Titel „DJ Friendly“ und trug auch zur bahnbrechenden DJ-Kicks-Reihe mit einem fesselnden Mix bei, der ihre Liebe zu Frauen und der LGBTQI+-Dance-Community zum Ausdruck brachte, zu der Elkka gehört und regelmäßig in intimen Räumen und auf Queer-Partys wie in der Panorama Bar und FEEL IT auftritt.

Mint Condition - A record label focused on excavating the outer fringes of classic House and Techno. Unreleased mixes, classics, overlooked gems and never heard before material, mined from the last 30+ years of contemporary dance music are the order of the day. From Chicago, Detroit and New York to London, San Francisco and beyond. Mint Condition have got their digging hats on to bring you exclusive heat and those rarer than rare jams that have been in your wants list for years. Dig in!

A serendipitous encounter at an SF record store in the early 90s brought together local music aficionados DJ Dan and Jim Hopkins. Their collaboration birthed the legendary Electroliners project, channeling their shared passion for underground and funky sounds into the iconic left-coast rave anthem, 'Loose Caboose', now firmly nestled in your hands. Pooling their musical prowess, Dan and Jim embarked on a journey of sonic exploration, meticulously crafting their signature sound by dissecting samples and breakbeats, infusing the musical landscape with a revitalizing energy. As their reputation grew within the local scene, they found themselves tasked with supplying a track for a promotional CD-ROM by a burgeoning software company.

Through marathon sessions of digging, slicing, sequencing, and exchanging snippets over phone calls, Electroliners hit their creative stride. It was only natural to unveil their creation in the raw intensity of a live rave setting. Thanks to a connection with DJ DRC, they seized the opportunity, and the rest is history. Copies of the record flew off the shelves by the thousands locally, and its overseas acclaim, spearheaded by licensing through XL Recordings in the UK, cemented its status as a bona fide underground classic. But what exactly is an Electroliner you might ask? Jim sheds light on the inspiration: “I delved into books on trains at the public library,” he reveals. “Among them, 'Electroliner' caught my eye, a train line in the Midwest. Given the track's pulsating train horn, 'Electroliner' and 'Loose Caboose' simply clicked.”

'Loose Caboose' is an all-time classic, and still causes much damage on the dancefloor today. Yet another unmissable addition to the MC reissue catalogue, fully licensed from the artists, mastered and cut by Curve Pusher, and available once again available for purchase. Do not sleep.

repress !


Das Ambient Jazz Ensemble liefert mit "Suite Shop Reworks" elektronische Upbeat-Dancefloor-Versionen seines gleichnamigen Albums aus 2014. Mastermind des AJE ist der Filmkomponist und Musikproduzent Colin Baldry, ihm zur Seite stehen Topmusiker wie Neil Cowley (Adele, Brand New Heavies), Finn Peters (Chick Corea) oder Nichol Thomson (Jamie Cullum). Gemastert wurde das Album von Guy Davie (Jon Hopkins, FKA Twigs, Jamie T) am Mischpult von Fela Kuti in Lagos, Nigeria.

The second in our Mr Bongo series opening the vault on classic recordings from the fabled Groove Merchant Records catalogue. This time the spotlight turns to the Hammond B3 organ maestro Lonnie Smith, as we proudly present a reissue of his cosmic jazz-funk journey, ‘Afro-Desia’.

Originally released in 1975, this much-loved album was produced by Groove Merchant label owner Sonny Lester and features the mysterious 'Compliments Of A Friend' on guitar. Considering Smith was part of George Benson’s quartet in the ‘60s, that not so discreet veil appears to have been lifted on who this ‘friend’ might be. However, presumably due to contractual reasons, Benson had to remain covert for this recording. The lineup doesn’t stop there though, with the likes of legendary bassist Ron Carter and Grammy award winning saxophonist Joe Lavano joining the outfit.

An album of two parts, the first side sees Lonnie Smith in a spaced-out, cosmic jazz funk setting. The opener 'Afrodesia' is a funk flexing, steamy groover. Greg Hopkins and Lavano trading off on trumpet and sax respectively, as that bassline walks its way over fluttering jazz percussion and off-kilter electronics. 'Spirits Free' is an epic 15-minute free-wheeling jazz-funk workout. A mind melting trip that rises and falls, in parts spacey and serene, with Smith’s organ playing complimented by stretched out horns. Before long it opens out into unconstrained fluid sections that do its title proud. Pure ‘70s jazz-funk at its most stellar.

Side B takes a more classic soul-jazz flavour, with touches of Latin spice. 'Straight To The Point' kicks off with a carnival zing, full-frontal horn and organ lines providing a fiery party punch. It’s a swinging jazz cut that used to receive spins by DJs at Russ Dewbury's Jazz Room's sessions in Brighton in the ‘90s.

Finally, 'Favors' and 'The Awakening' close out the release. Two sure shot, quintessential Lonnie Smith firing Hammond grooves. Each conjuring up images of packed out, smokey jazz bar jams, every player letting loose with masterful improv sections to whip the crowd up into a frenzy.

A truly wonderful album, and an archetypal release showcasing the height of jazz musician excellence from this era.

A nice boxset with 3 LP and a poster. Including all the greatest blues artists: LIGHTNIN" HOPKINS, JOHN LEE HOOKER, SCREAMIN" JAY HAWKINS, BO DIDDLEY, MUDDY WATERS, HOWLIN" WOLF, T-BONE WALKER, B.B KING...

Toothpaste Records präsentiert das LP-Format des 2022 erschienenen CD-Samplers "As If It Had Always Been Determined Since This Day Was Born" der japanischen Hardcore-Noise-Punk-Legenden The Gerogerigegege mit von den Original-Masterbändern remasterten Versionen diverser Gero-Klassiker. Darunter befinden sich die Debütsingle "Sexual Behavior In The Human Male" (1988, Trans Records), das exzellente Leather Nun-Cover "Ensam I Natt" und ein ultrarares Cover der taiwanesischen Sängerin Teresa Teng. Die LP enthält ferner 5500 Wörter umfassende Linernotes von Gero 55 auf Japanisch und Englisch, übersetzt von Kato David Hopkins.

Out of print as a stand-alone release for decades since its original 1974 issue. Produced by George Harrison, Shankar Family & Friends is an almost-forgotten masterwork – an emotional and sonic pact between two like-minded souls to both advance their spiritually minded bond and unite musical styles, cultures, and sounds in wondrous fashion Contributions from Ringo Starr, David Bromberg, Billy Preston, Nicky Hopkins, Jim Keltner, Klaus Voorman, and a host of virtuosic Indian musicians add to a diverse album that melds Eastern and Western traditions; encompasses jazz, funk, bhajan, Indian, and pop; and represents the spirit and breadth of Harrison's Dark Horse Records imprint.

Memorable contributions from an A-list of American and English musicians — Ringo Starr (drums), David Bromberg (electric guitar), Billy Preston (organ), Nicky Hopkins (piano), Jim Keltner (drums), Klaus Voorman (bass), Robert Margouleff (Moog), Malcolm Cecil (Moog), Tom Scott (saxophone) included — add to the richness of a set that melds Eastern and Western traditions. These “names” mesh with a host of Indian virtuosos — Alla Rakha, Ashish Khan, Kamala Chakravarty, Hariprasad Chaurasia included — who turn Shankar Family & Friends into a journey laced with percussive, string, and vocal components that aren’t soon forgotten.

Throughout, Shankar Family & Friends remains true to its title — a mesmerizing record named to reflect the group participation approach of its creators. The idea started when Shankar told Harrison about a ballet he wrote. The Beatle, who first met Shankar in June 1966 — roughly a year after Harrison became interested in Indian music after overhearing it in a restaurant while filming Help! — immediately was convinced they needed to record it. Harrison’s staunch admiration of Shankar and serious approach to Eastern styles are reflected throughout the album.

Indeed, for Harrison, Shankar Family & Friends marks the culmination of a years-long effort to master the sitar, study Hinduism, and incorporate elements such as drones, unusual chords, and expressive picking into his own songs. The seeds of this unique collaboration can be heard in Beatles works such as “Norwegian Wood,” “Love to You,” and “Within You Without You.” Both musicians were also fresh from performing at the 1971 Concert for Bangladesh shows. Yet Shankar Family & Friends remains entirely unique in each visionary artist’s history — and ultimately, led to a collaborative tour Harrison and Shankar staged across North America.

Encompassing jazz, funk, bhajan, Indian, and pop, Shankar Family & Friends is thematically split into halves. Side One reveals Shankar’s uncanny ear for melody — even when applied to Western forms. The lead-off “I Am Missing You,” the first single ever released by Dark Horse Records and reportedly the first pop composition Shankar completed, underscores his skills as a composer and global ambassador. Beautifully sung across three octaves by his sister-in-law, Lakshmi Shankar, the devotional song features multiple drummers and production that mirrors Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound approach. Harrison plays autoharp and guitar; Starr sits in on drums; Scott handles flute and soprano saxophone. It’s the inviting start of a musical adventure teeming with color, majesty, and mysticism.

A second version of the track — designated with a “(Reprise)” tag — appears minutes later. Unfolding in different ways, it follows a folk ballad structure stitched together with Indian instrumentation. Here, according to Shankar, the musicians “attempted to convey the sounds and atmosphere of Vrindavan, the ancient holy place where Krishna grew up.” Both renditions speak to the cross-continental fusion that came so naturally to Harrison and Shankar, whose oversight on the side’s other vocal tracks ensures listeners familiar with Western methods gain easy access to the hypnotic allure of his native country’s music.

Nowhere is this more evident than on Dream, Nightmare & Dawn (Music for a Ballet), the side-long piece that served as the genesis for Shankar Family & Friends. Launched with an airy overture and unfolding across three movements, the mostly wordless suite features everything from call-and-response interplay and classical lyricism to uptempo dance figures, stacked rhythms, and intoxicating grooves. Blurring the lines between contemporary and traditional, and Western and Eastern, the inspirational work is the exclamation point on a record that defined “world music” well before the term became co-opted as a catch-all genre.

A compilation of rare spiritual jazz and funk grooves culled from the archives of producer Bob Shad's Mainstream Records. Alice Clark's cult classic Never Did I Stop Loving You' features here alongside many gems uncovered for the first time.
Bob Shad worked with titans such as Charlie Parker and Lightnin' Hopkins in the 40s, founded the EmArcy jazz label in the 50s, and discovered Janis Joplin in the 60s, and started the Mainstream label in 1964.

From Afrique's classic House of the Rising Funk' and its funky wah wah frenzy, to Hadley Caliman's deep jazz Flute ode, From one of Clark Terry's famous Mumbles (Shad produced the original with Oscar Peterson) to Jack Wilkins' Red Clay' sampled by both A Tribe Called Quest and Chance the Rapper. A Soul Music lover, Shad also excelled in soul divas and produced Ellerine Harding, Maxine Weldon and of course the mighty Alice Clark. Carmen McRae, one of Shad's long time collaborators, gives a soulful, conga-led version of the classic Feelin' Good, originally made famous by Nina Simone

The Infernal Sea sind seit 2011 eine Plage auf dieser Erde, komponieren grimmigen und furchteinflößenden Black Metal mit ihrem einzigartigen UK-Imprint und beschwören fesselnde Geschichten aus der englischen und europäischen Geschichte des Mittelalters herauf. The Infernal Sea stammen aus dem Osten Englands, einer Gegend voller Trostlosigkeit und Trostlosigkeit, die in ihrer Musik widerhallt. Viele ihrer Geschichten stammen aus dieser Gegend, insbesondere auf ihrem neuen Album 'Hellfenlic', das sich um die brutale Verfolgung von Männern und Frauen durch den berüchtigten Witchfinder General, Matthew Hopkins, dreht. Es erzählt von seiner Besessenheit, seinem religiösen Eifer, seiner Brutalität und schließlich seinem Untergang.

The Infernal Sea setzen ihre Live-Auftritte mit einer furchterregenden und fesselnden Bühnenshow fort und ziehen das Publikum in ihren Bann, wo auch immer sie sich aufhalten. Dazu gehören Auftritte bei wichtigen britischen Festivals wie dem Bloodstock Festival, Incineration Festival, Damnation Festival, A Night of Salvation, Reaper Fest, Cosmic Void sowie eine ganze Reihe von wichtigen Supportslots für Bands wie Anaal Nathrakh, 1349, Taake, Napalm Death, Akercocke, Nargaroth, Primordial, Hellripper, Tsjuder, Mork, Rotting Christ, Hulder, Strigoi, Abigail Williams, Arch Enemy und viele mehr. The Infernal Sea beeindrucken das Publikum weiterhin mit ihren mitreißenden Headline-Shows, darunter eine Reihe von ausverkauften Auftritten im Jahr 2023.

Green Black Splatter Vinyl
The Infernal Sea sind seit 2011 eine Plage auf dieser Erde, komponieren grimmigen und furchteinflößenden Black Metal mit ihrem einzigartigen UK-Imprint und beschwören fesselnde Geschichten aus der englischen und europäischen Geschichte des Mittelalters herauf. The Infernal Sea stammen aus dem Osten Englands, einer Gegend voller Trostlosigkeit und Trostlosigkeit, die in ihrer Musik widerhallt. Viele ihrer Geschichten stammen aus dieser Gegend, insbesondere auf ihrem neuen Album 'Hellfenlic', das sich um die brutale Verfolgung von Männern und Frauen durch den berüchtigten Witchfinder General, Matthew Hopkins, dreht. Es erzählt von seiner Besessenheit, seinem religiösen Eifer, seiner Brutalität und schließlich seinem Untergang.

The Infernal Sea setzen ihre Live-Auftritte mit einer furchterregenden und fesselnden Bühnenshow fort und ziehen das Publikum in ihren Bann, wo auch immer sie sich aufhalten. Dazu gehören Auftritte bei wichtigen britischen Festivals wie dem Bloodstock Festival, Incineration Festival, Damnation Festival, A Night of Salvation, Reaper Fest, Cosmic Void sowie eine ganze Reihe von wichtigen Supportslots für Bands wie Anaal Nathrakh, 1349, Taake, Napalm Death, Akercocke, Nargaroth, Primordial, Hellripper, Tsjuder, Mork, Rotting Christ, Hulder, Strigoi, Abigail Williams, Arch Enemy und viele mehr. The Infernal Sea beeindrucken das Publikum weiterhin mit ihren mitreißenden Headline-Shows, darunter eine Reihe von ausverkauften Auftritten im Jahr 2023.

Der wahre Blues ist lange keine Neuigkeit mehr. Hier finden sich nun 16 elektrifizierte Post-War Kracher, aufgenommen zwischen Chicago und New Orleans, die oft nur ein kurzes Leben als 7"-Single fristeten und heute begehrte Sammlerobjekte sind. Diese Musik wurde in verschwitzten Clubs und bei House Rent Parties der 50er und frühen 60er Jahre gespielt bzw. aufgelegt. Und noch heute kann man exzellent dazu tanzen, denn alle Tunes sind schnell, rauh und dafür gemacht, die Meute in Bewegung zu bringen. Volle fünf Sterne für die fünfte Veröffentlichung der Rockinitis-Reihe! Diese Zusammenstellungen zeigen die rauen und wilden Klänge des rockigen Electric Blues aus den 1950er und frühen 1960er Jahren. Auf der A-Seite ist R-Man, Chef des Stag-O-Lee-Labels, mit weiteren acht Dirty-Blues-Dancetracks zurück, zu denen die Tailfeather zwingend geshaket werden muss. Jeweils zwei Tunes von Killerlabels wie Excello, Groove, Herald und Chess/Checker. In diversen Clubs auf Tauglichkeit getestet. Die Rückseite bestreitet Donna Driscoll, langjährige Kennerin und Sammlerin zwischen Northern Soul und R&B aus London. Donna legt regelmäßig in Blues- und Soul-Clubs sowie bei Mod-Events im Vereinigten Königreich und im Ausland auf. Egal in welcher Stimmung man ist, ihre Auswahl wird jeden in Bewegung und zum Grooven bringen. Hear me now!

London-based, Australian-born Teneil Throssell, aka HAAi, is known for a strain of sonic psychedelia that metabolises precise sound design, melodic techno, electronic pop and thundering beats. Following the release of her acclaimed 2022 album, Baby, We"re Ascending, HAAi has reached what she calls "another career milestone" - an invitation to steer the next edition of !K7 Records" acclaimed DJ-Kicks series.

In celebration of his “I'M REALLY LIKE THAT” album release, Drama tapped in Queen Latifah, Omar Epps, Jermaine Hopkins, and Khalil Kain to recreate iconic scenes from the movie “Juice,” which was highly influential in Drama becoming a DJ.

The album peaked at #67 on the Billboard Top 200 chart and has accumulated over 100 millions streams. Now Available in color Marble Red & Black!

Es heißt, lang lebe der König und so weiter, aber nichts ist jemals in Stein gemeißelt. Ein Vierteljahrhundert nach seiner selbstverschuldeten Krönung und seinem selbstveröffentlichten Debüt-Soloalbum hat Kenny Anderson - DIY-Pop-Reisender, Restaurator eines angestammten Hauses am Meer, Squeezebox-Lothario, Fife for life, Diamantenschürfer, Herzensbrecher, und der Mann, der auch als King Creosote bekannt ist - über 100 Platten veröffentlicht (wenn man relativ konservativ schätzt), mit Künstlern wie Jon Hopkins, KT Tunstall und Lone Pigeon von Beta Band zusammengearbeitet und seine Songs von Künstlern wie Patti Smith und Simple Minds covern und aufführen lassen. Jetzt hat er trotz oder vielleicht gerade wegen all dem eine neue LP angekündigt. Sie heißt I DES und wird am 3. November veröffentlicht.
Und nein, es ist nicht an ihm, der so sehr von spielerischer Lyrik beseelt ist, vorbeigegangen, dass der Titel seiner neuesten Veröffentlichung ein einfaches Anagramm von "Dies" ist. Aber man sollte sich ein paar Dinge vor Augen halten: 1) I DES ist eine Anspielung auf KCs wichtigsten Kollaborateur dieses Mal - Multiinstrumentalist und Co-Produzent Derek O'Neill alias Des Lawson of Blantyre (From Scotland With Love von 2014, Astronaut Meets Appleman von 2016); und 2) HRH King Creosote hat sein ganzes musikalisches Leben lang um sein Ende gerungen.

Das Album wurde größtenteils zwischen 2016 und 2020 geschrieben, aber nichts ist jemals so einfach: Es gibt etwas Altes (Bäume), etwas Blaues (ebenfalls Bäume), etwas Geliehenes (Heimkassetten und Gesang aus allen Epochen; Texte aus der fernen Vergangenheit) und etwas Neues (KC scherzt, dass ein möglicher Titel für dieses Album We All Got Synths for Christmas war).

Und hier ist King Creosote: Sänger, Songwriter, rosaroter Schwindler, Vater dreier wunderschöner Töchter. Er wurde im Winter 1967 geboren. In jenem Jahr wüteten Überschwemmungen und Schneestürme, aber alles wuchs und überstand den Sturm.

William Eggleston is a famed photographer and musician credited for iconic album covers such as Spoon's Transference and Jimmy Eat World's Bleed American. 512 was inspired and recorded at the Parkview Apartments in Memphis, Tennessee where Eggleston lived for almost ten years. The apartment was full of art and inspiration: cameras, naturally, but also high-end stereo tube amplifiers and objects that you'd rush towards money in hand at your local flea market. But also a gigantic nine foot Bosendorfer grand piano and a massive grand vintage JBL theater speaker console. His home was overwhelmed by music. By recording there the album captures not just his performances, but also the vibe of the place; it often felt as though there were artists lurking in the aether listening along. His visitors over the years were no small change: Lee Friedlander, Carl Sagan, Dennis Hopper , Paul McCartney and many others came to see him and listen to his hypnotic "Musik". You can hear local traffic, a dog barking, weather; reality, in other words. But there was another space layered on top, a kind of surreality echoing his music, as you can imagine a gathering of musicians listening in, eager to join him. Thus came along 512 which features the legendary Brian Eno on bells and production from Leo Abrahams (Regina Spektor, Paul Simon, Jon Hopkins)."

William Eggleston is a famed photographer and musician credited for iconic album covers such as Spoon's Transference and Jimmy Eat World's Bleed American. 512 was inspired and recorded at the Parkview Apartments in Memphis, Tennessee where Eggleston lived for almost ten years. The apartment was full of art and inspiration: cameras, naturally, but also high-end stereo tube amplifiers and objects that you'd rush towards money in hand at your local flea market. But also a gigantic nine foot Bosendorfer grand piano and a massive grand vintage JBL theater speaker console. His home was overwhelmed by music. By recording there the album captures not just his performances, but also the vibe of the place; it often felt as though there were artists lurking in the aether listening along. His visitors over the years were no small change: Lee Friedlander, Carl Sagan, Dennis Hopper , Paul McCartney and many others came to see him and listen to his hypnotic "Musik". You can hear local traffic, a dog barking, weather; reality, in other words. But there was another space layered on top, a kind of surreality echoing his music, as you can imagine a gathering of musicians listening in, eager to join him. Thus came along 512 which features the legendary Brian Eno on bells and production from Leo Abrahams (Regina Spektor, Paul Simon, Jon Hopkins)."