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Cover of Suggestive Listening E.P by Ulrika Spacek.

Ulrika Spacek

Suggestive Listening E.P

Tough Love

    THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2018 EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

    Following the release of two consecutive albums over two consecutive years (2016's 'The Album Paranoia' and last year's 'Modern English Decoration'), Ulrika Spacek release new music in the form of an extended play record titled 'Suggestive Listening'. Recorded at both KEN and a rural studio in France, this work reveals experimentation in both a home and studio environment. A departure from the band's beloved album format, and perhaps a suggestive insight into future endeavours. Tracks: 1 - No. 1 Hum 2 - Black Mould 3 - Freudian Slip 4 - Lord Luck 5 - Wave to Paulo, he's not there

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    Cover of Battaki by Umeko Ando.

    Umeko Ando

    Battaki

    Volkuta

    Japan's Volkuta follow up their first release with another selection of oriental flavours. Volkuta is a new label which introduces traditional Japanese songs alongside more contemporary remixes. Umeko Ando (1932-2004) was a folk singer from Japan. She was a representative of the Ainu culture on the Hokkaido Island in the north of Japan. Here we get six original tracks from her, alongside a remix from Joe Claussell. 

    The music is reassuringly beguiling; utilizing eastern scales and instrumentation - much of which I'm going to struggle to correctly name. There's flurries of prog, jazz, new age and folk; all combined into a stylish aural soup. When Umeko Ando sings it's playful, almost tongue-in-cheek, but certainly captivating. Joe Claussell is on hand to provide a sympathetically spiritual take on "Metal Rain Shower". It's an eastern exotica opus and demands your immediate attention! 





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    Cover of Recordings 1969-1988 (2018 Remaster) by Ursula Bogner.

    Ursula Bogner

    Recordings 1969-1988 (2018 Remaster)

    Faitiche

    Faitiche is ten years old. October 2008 saw the release of Ursula Bogner - Recordings 1969-1988, for which the label was created. While working as a scientist in the pharmaceuticals sector, Ursula Bogner experimented with electronic music, undiscovered, for over three decades. When Jan Jelinek first heard Bogner’s work in 2008, he was enthusiastic. The resulting album, compiled by Jelinek from Bogner’s extensive oeuvre, is being reissued in a remastered version (LP/digital) to mark the label’s tenth anniversary. The new version also includes four bonus tracks that were previously only available on a vinyl 7" single.

    FORMAT INFORMATION

    Ltd LP Info: Limited edition, remastered, gatefold vinyl with four bonus tracks and download code to Mark Faitiche's 10th anniversary.

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    Cover of Underrated Silence by Ulrich Schnauss & Mark Peters.

    Ulrich Schnauss & Mark Peters

    Underrated Silence

    Bureau B

    The musicians: Ulrich Schnauss, born in Kiel in 1977, now residing in London, three solo albums released to date, Engineers keyboard player and an in-demand remixer (Mojave 3, Depeche Mode, Lunz/Roedelius, to name just a few). Mark Peters, born in Liverpool in 1975, bass player, guitarist, vocalist and songwriter in the British band Engineers, also three album releases to their name thus far.

    The music: synthesizer, piano, guitar and drum computer, a reduced, yet bacchanal instrumental combination of ambient, electronica and shoegaze sounds. Transporting the sound of shoegazer aesthetics into an electronic context, this is how Ulrich Schnauss once described his artistic goal. Influenced by bands such as My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, Cocteau Twins and Chapterhouse on the one hand, yet wholly at ease with the electronica of bands like The Orb, Bionaut, Orbital, 808 State and unequivocally appreciative of veterans of the genre, Tangerine Dream or Manuel Gottsching for example. A brother in spirit of Robin Guthrie one might say, an apposite epithet for Schnauss. His collaborative partner Mark Peters might also be considered his soul brother. Through his band, Engineers, he has similarly found success in following the footsteps of his musical paragons. Engineers have released wonderful albums of dream pop, infused with the same spirit as the solo efforts of Schnauss.

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    Cover of Tomorrow Is Another Day by Ulrich Schnauss & Mark Peters.

    Ulrich Schnauss & Mark Peters

    Tomorrow Is Another Day

    Bureau B

    Electronic duo Ulrich Schnauss (A Long Way to Fall, A Strangely Isolated Place) and Mark Peters (of the band Engineers) return with a second collaborative album titled Tomorrow is Another Day, released by Bureau B. This second project offers a sublime exploration into their signature expressionistic landscapes while exploring the potential of a collaborative model in which Schnauss's keyboards and Peters's guitar work together in juxtaposition.

    Ulrich Schnauss, born in the industrial port town of Kiel in northern Germany in 1977, emerged in Berlin's drum 'n bass scene in the mid-1990s. Mark Peters was born in Liverpool in 1975 and embraced a deeply euphonic pop aesthetic that incorporated intricate formal structures. The two musicians met years ago when both were making shoegaze music and formed a close friendship. Schnauss joined Peters's band Engineers as a keyboardist in 2010. After the collapse of the second-wave shoegaze movement in the early 2000s, both musicians drifted away from the genre's dreamy, shimmering aesthetic and returned solidly to their own musical roots. Peters has subsequently explored classic, guitar-based music and Schnauss has returned to his origins as an electronica producer.

    Tomorrow is Another Day represents a maturing of the pair's creative process. Following their first collaborative album titled Underrated Silence (2012), which seamlessly blends the two instrumental voices into an integrated sonic landscape that delivers surprisingly intense emotion beneath the surface of its delicate composition, Schnauss and Peters subsequently began to craft a musical exchange in which each musician's contribution was emphasized in contrast to the other's voice. The differences in Schnauss' and Peters's musical backgrounds are highlighted and embraced as their two voices emerge in dialogue. Here, the synths are drier, the guitars more discreet. The shifting tonality of the music's richly layered patterning defines its composition with punctuated gestures as melodic lines emerge in sharper relief. With neither musical style overpowering the other, the effect is that of two equally masterful voices in coherent conversation, celebrating the dynamic nature of instrumental combination and exploring a new method of creative approach - one that allows for concurrence and dissent, in turn.

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    Cover of U-Men by U-Men.

    U-Men

    U-Men

    Sub Pop

      “The U-Men are one of the best bands I’ve ever seen. They were hypnotic, frenetic, powerful and compelling. It was impossible to resist getting sucked into their weird, darkly absurd world. They effortlessly blended The Sonics, Link Wray, Pere Ubu, and Captain Beefheart. Their shows were loose-limbed, drunken dance parties and no two shows were alike. The U-Men were avant-garage explorers and, most importantly, they fucking rocked. I was lucky enough to live in their hometown and I saw them every chance I could.

      “From 1983 to 1987, the U-Men were the undisputed kings of the Seattle Underground. No one else came close. They ruled a bleak backwater landscape populated by maybe 200 people. They were the only band that could unify the disparate sub-subcultures and get all 200 of those people to fill a room. Anglophilic, dress-dark Goths; neo-psych MDA acolytes; skate punks who shit in bathtubs at parties; Mod vigilantes who tormented the homeless with pellet guns; college kids who thought college kids were lame; Industrial Artistes; some random guy with a moustache; and eccentrics who insisted that they couldn’t be pigeonholed: all coalesced around the U-Men.

      “Sub Pop co-founder, Bruce Pavitt released the first record by the U-Men, a 4-song 12” EP on Bombshelter Records. By the time they had recorded songs for another record, Bruce was too broke to release it on his proto-Sub Pop label, so he hooked them up with Gerard Cosloy at Homestead Records. This was a big deal. Homestead had a heavy rep at the time with recent releases by Foetus, Nick Cave, Sonic Youth, and Big Black. I was sure that the release of their second 12”, Stop Spinning, would propel the U-Men into the ranks of those Homestead acts and the worldwide underground would get hip to Seattle’s finest. Following the departure of bassist Jim Tillman (replaced by Tom Hazelmyer of Amphetamine Reptile Records, and then Tony Ransome), the band recorded two fantastic singles, and recorded their one full-length album, ‘Step On A Bug’, for Black Label, which was run out of Fallout Records. They became increasingly disenchanted with the direction the Seattle underground was heading and called it quits in 1989.

      “The U-Men had nothing to do with Grunge. They were their own unique thing. I loved them and I still miss them. I remember thinking at the time that most of their recordings were a little soft and didn’t capture the power of the band live. Now, thirty years later, their records sound great to me and we are lucky that they exist. I’m stoked that Sub Pop complied these long out-of-print records and scrounged up some unreleased songs so that everyone has a chance to take a trip back to old weird Seattle.” - Mark Arm, Seattle, August 2017

      FORMAT INFORMATION

      3xLP Box Set Info: This 3xLP box set collects the entire studio-recorded output of the U-Men, remastered, plus five unreleased songs, with 16 pages of photos, liner notes and interviews with the band. Executive produced by Jack Endino.

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      Cover of Natty Rebel by U-Roy.

      U-Roy

      Natty Rebel

      Get On Down

      U-Roy was a true reggae pioneer, dubbed The Originator for good reason. Bursting onto the Jamaican scene in the early 1970s, he pioneered the vocal approach called “toasting,” which in addition to bringing Jamaican music into a new era, was also heavily influential on an American vocal style also in its infancy: rapping. Following up the RSD17 release of U-Roy’s classic "Dread In A Babylon", Trafficnow brings us a very welcome reissue of the vocalist’s 1976 full-length (and fourth) album, "Natty Rebel", which has been out of print for more than 30 years. Produced by Tony Robinson (known for his work with Big Youth, Lloyd Parks, the Gladiators and many more), the album’s 11 cuts range from bouncier and sometimes even disco-tinged grooves – “Have Mercy,” “Go There Natty” and the album lead-off, “Babylon Burning” – to the classic roots stepping that drew fans to the legendary Jamaican vocalist over his long career – including “So Jay Jah Say” and “Natty Kung Fu.” At its core, this is a deep journey into the heart of rasta living, spoken by one of Jamaica’s most underrated dub and roots legends, and it’s one of the strongest full-lengths in his expansive catalog. Whether you are experiencing U-Roy for the first time, or replacing your decades-old original LP, diving into this reissue of "Natty Rebel" is one hell of a way to spend an afternoon. Or, if you’re not careful, a week or two. 

      STAFF COMMENTS

      Patrick says: As you read this, there's every chance I'm tucking into breadfruit stew, rice an' pea and a side of fried plantain, my culinary experience enhanced no end by this U-Roy classic.

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      Cover of Talking Roots by U-Roy.

      U-Roy

      Talking Roots

      Ariwa

      U Roy, also known as The Originator, is probably the best known of toasting DJs. From his early Treasure Isle Records releases through to releases on Island, Virgin, Front Line Records and a few records on ARIWA, his style has become iconic with reggae culture and MC'ing.

      This is U Roy’s 21st studio record and finds him working with the usual standards such as Sly & Robbie and Lloyd Parks and produced by Mad Professor. More recent additions, Black Steel, Leroy Mafia and including a variety of vocalists - Nadine Sutherland, Carroll T, Aisha, also make strong appearances.

      Lyrically he's still on point and potent. His delivery as confident as ever as he discusses black rights, the joys of Jamaican and the traditional roots themes. 


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      Cover of Versions Galore by U-Roy.

      U-Roy

      Versions Galore

      Get On Down

      “All of a sudden, Jamaica awoke one morning and U-Roy was everywhere…” So read the original liner notes to this classic reggae LP, which originally hit in 1971 and washed over the island like a grooving tropical storm. U-Roy was a true reggae pioneer, dubbed The Originator for good reason. Bursting onto the Jamaican scene in the early 1970s, he pioneered the vocal approach called “toasting,” which in addition to bringing Jamaican music into a new era, was also heavily influential on an American vocal style also in its infancy: rapping.

      This full-length, his first after a string of singles (mostly on the Treasure Isle and other Duke Reid labels, run by the famed producer and studio owner), rolls like a crazy party where a wobbly, but talented, “master of ceremonies” grabs the mic and won’t let go. Speaking over and around songs that already have straight-ahead vocals on them, U-Roy shows the world why he is considered an iconoclast and trailblazer. In all honesty, there are few standouts on the album since they all run a similar course, and all are captivating in their own way. Modern listeners will especially note “Tide Is High,” originally by the Paragons (featuring dulcet-toned vocalist John Holt) and recorded later as a 1980 smash hit by Blondie.

      Each track here is a new adventure, and while U-Roy’s approach might take some getting used to, it will eventually capture your ears as it did the entire island of Jamaica in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Sit back, drop the needle, and enjoy. 

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      Cover of Duntisbourne Abbots Soulmate Devastation Technique by U-Ziq.

      U-Ziq

      Duntisbourne Abbots Soulmate Devastation Technique

      Planet Mu

      "Duntisbourne Abbots..." is U-Ziq's first new album for four years and first new material released since 2005. It's a more reflective body of work compared to the whirlwind of chaos that was "Bilious Paths"; introspective and rather melancholic, U-Ziq revisits his roots in the early 90s ambient techno scene pioneered by, among others, The Black Dog, Aphex Twin and himself. Amongst these 17 tracks of off-key melodies, nauseous harmonies and woozy beats can be found gems such as the beautiful "Strawberry Fields Hotel" in which a lone bassline strikes out a refrain of unexpected simplicity while bees swarm overhead around a fig tree. And "Drum Light" where a five-part melody gives way to a startling noise assault. "Acid Steak Night", a collaboration with label-mate The Doubtful Guest, is a more straightforward techno number with 303 basslines warring it out with spooky melodic synth lines. A melodic tour de force.

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      Cover of Receiver by U.V..

      U.V.

      Receiver

      Unknown

        U.V. are an electronic duo comprising singer Zandra Klievens and writer / producer Jonjo Feather. They formed in late 2012 and are based in Manchester, U.K. They spent their formative months writing and performing in Berlin and returned to the UK in June 2013. Zandra is the former lead vocalist with NME favourites The ABC Club and Jonjo has previously released two critically acclaimed solo albums under his own name. U.V. released their first single 'Wish' in June 2013. Their new single 'Receiver' is out now on limited edition audio cassette and download.

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        Cover of Lights Of Home by U2.

        U2

        Lights Of Home

        Island

          THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2018 EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

          U2 release their Record Store Day exclusive 12” Picture Disc for 2018, containing three versions of ‘Lights of Home’ taken from their fourteenth studio album Songs Of Experience released last December. Hear the new Beck Remix of (Lights of Home /Free Yourself) exclusively for the first time anywhere. Tracks on this 12” are: Lights Of Home, Lights of Home (St Peters String Version) and (Lights of Home /Free Yourself/Beck Remix). Includes a Download Voucher. Following last year’s acclaimed stadium run with The Joshua Tree Tour 2017, U2 will return indoors this year with the eXPERIENCE + iNNOCENCE Tour. Kicking off in North America on 2nd May 2018 , the European leg of the arena tour will reach Berlin on 31st August ahead of shows in Manchester (19th October) and London (23rd October).

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          Cover of The Blackout by U2.

          U2

          The Blackout

          Third Man Records

            Third Man Records is proud to announce the release of "The Blackout," a limited edition U2 12" in conjunction with Island Records. The limited edition U2 12" will be available for Record Store Day Black Friday, November 24th. "The Blackout" marks the first physical release from U2's eagerly awaited new album, SONGS OF EXPERIENCE, due later this year. The 12" includes both the original album version backed by an exclusive remix by the band's longtime collaborator, Jacknife Lee. Hailed by Rolling Stone as "a dynamic new track,"

            "The Blackout" was revealed this summer via a surprise live video, filmed during U2's blockbuster Joshua Tree Tour 2017. Third Man co-founder Ben Blackwell said, "The sound quality of this incredibly special record is a perfect example of the caliber of product Third Man Pressing is capable of producing. We couldn't be more proud." TMR's "The Blackout" 12" will be extremely limited, with just one single pressing at Third Man Pressing, the label's state-of-the-art vinyl production facility in Detroit. Black vinyl editions will be available at all participating Record Store Day shops.

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            U2

            All That You Can't Leave Behind

            Island

              Brand new album from Bono and the boys, back to playing straight forward rock songs.

              FORMAT INFORMATION

              CD Info: Limited edition numbered CD in a slip case.

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              Reduced Cover of No Line On The Horizon by U2.

              U2

              No Line On The Horizon

              Island

              "No Line On The Horizon" is U2's twelfth studio album, and follows the massive success of 2004's "How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb". The first single from the album, "Get On Your Boots", may be an all-out rocker akin to previous successes like "Vertigo", but the remainder of the album sees the band diversifying in ways similar to their "Zooropa" days. It is inescapably a U2 album, though, so Bono's vocals still speak of injustices personal and global, and The Edge's guitar work continues to be both feathery and metallic in equal dose.

              FORMAT INFORMATION

              Ltd CD Info: Limited edition digipak includes 36 page colour booklet and fold out poster along with access to exclusive downloadable Anton Corbijn film.

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              Cover of Songs Of Innocence by U2.

              U2

              Songs Of Innocence

              Island

              13th studio album from the Irish stadium rocking 4piece. The latest collection of songs from Bono, Edge, Larry and Adam is 11tracks including brand new single ‘The Miracle (Of Joey Ramone) as well as potential future singles ‘Song for Someone’, ‘Every Breaking Wave’ and ‘Trouble’ ft Lykke Li. Recorded over the last 4 years, produced by Danger Mouse, Ryan Fedder and Paul Epworth.

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              Cover of The Joshua Tree (Remastered) by U2.

              U2

              The Joshua Tree (Remastered)

              Island

              U2's "The Joshua Tree" has been meticulously remastered from the original analogue master tapes to mark 20 years since its release. 'There has been continuous demand from U2 fans to have "The Joshua Tree" properly re-mastered', says Paul McGuinness. 'As always, the band had to make sure it was right, and now it is.' In 1987, "The Joshua Tree" reached Number 1 around the world and won a Grammy for 'Album of the Year', while U2 won the Brit Award for Best International Act and Time Magazine put the band on its cover, proclaiming them 'Rock's Hottest Ticket'. Including the singles "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For", "Where The Streets Have No Name" and "With Or Without You", "The Joshua Tree" went on to sell in excess of 20 million.

              FORMAT INFORMATION

              2xLtd CD Info: Deluxe edition including a second CD of B-sides and demos from the original album sessions.

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              Cover of Sex, Dreams & Denim Jeans by Uffie.

              Uffie

              Sex, Dreams & Denim Jeans

              Ed Banger / Because

              "Sex, Dreams and Denim Jeans" was put together over three years, recorded in various apartments around Paris whenever Uffie was able to take short-lived breaks from touring. The album has all the hallmarks of the hedonistic club kid who introduced herself with the fearless "Pop The Glock" back in 2006, while the influence of Feadz and the production hand of beat-and-synths wizard Mr Oizo are strongly felt over many of the tracks. But there is also a melodic, pop sensibility being explored for the first time. The result can be heard in the likes of title track, which samples Lou Reed but sees Uffie toying with John Hughes-esque high school heartbreak, and "Illusion Of Love", which features the dulcet tones of Matte Safer (The Rapture). Another important influence over "Sex, Dreams & Denim Jeans" happened when Uffie was introduced to Mirwais while recording the album. Having worked on Madonna albums such as "Music" and "Confessions On A DanceFloor", Mirwais was perfectly poised to helped nurture Uffie's inner pop star. Tracks like "ADD SUV" (featuring Pharrell) poke fun at the rap fraternity's obsession with possessions, but at the core of this idiosyncratic album, in which Uffie flits from rude girl to sweetheart, is fun.


              FORMAT INFORMATION

              Ltd CD Info: Limited edition CD comes in denim pocket.

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              Cover of Issue #49 - Winter 2018 by Ugly Things.

              Ugly Things

              Issue #49 - Winter 2018

                Cover stars this time are British R&B hitmakers MANFRED MANN, who are featured via exclusive and extensive interviews with Paul Jones and Tom McGuinness. Also on the cover: Cleveland post-punk glam-infused geniuses DEATH OF SAMANTHA, and one of Chicago’s most revered ‘60s garage acts, THE KNAVES. This issue also includes an interview with HERVE ZENOUDA, who takes you deep inside the ‘70s punk scene in Paris with STINKY TOYS, STRIKE UP, LOOSE HEART and ANGEL FACE. Greg Prevost interviews pop paragon EMITT RHODES, Ric Menck covers LA power pop icons THE QUICK, Mike Stax digs into the world of teenage Dutch beat bashers THE KWYET, and Harvey Kubernik gives new insight into THE ROLLING STONES’ “Sympathy for the Devil” and the Beggar’s Banquet mastering sessions. All this and more—including, as always, our outstanding reviews of reissues and rock-related books.

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                Cover of Alborada by Uji.

                Uji

                Alborada

                ZZK

                Uji spins a hypnotic spell of sounds on his debut solo release; “Alborada”, joining the canon of recent producers re-imaging world sounds within the realms electronic music - think Auntie Flo, Nicola Cruz, Clap! Clap! and Populous. Yet his music has thoughtful nuance and textural depth, exploring a rich organic palette of sounds that will easily appeal to fans of Nicolas Jaar, Pantha Du Prince and John Talabot too.

                Having been born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and raised throughout Latin America - the album reflects his experiences in both the Latin American and Afro-Latin diasporas. On tracks like “La Descarri“ featuring Corina Lawrence and Miss Bolivia, Uji skillfully crafts scenes from the high plains of Bolivia in their yearly carnaval celebrations before transporting us to Colombia’s tropical “pueblos” (villages) - dancing into the sweaty night on his remix of Petrona Martinez’s “Mariangola/Milagros” and then to daybreak in a Berlin warehouse on “Kiok” featuring Barrio Lindo.

                Most of the sounds on the album are field recordings done by Uji himself, compiling a vast sound bank over the years on his global travels, including a wide array of instruments from his collection such as; congas, cununo, marimba, balafon, charango, bombo leguero, sonajas, as well as analog drum machines, samplers, synthesizers and vocals. A multi layered assemblage with deep and rich textures from around the world.


                FORMAT INFORMATION

                2xLP Info: The LP comes in deluxe reverse-board sleeve with double-printed metallic gold Pantone design.

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                Cover of Never Mind The Cossacks - Yellow Vinyl Edition by The Ukrainians.

                The Ukrainians

                Never Mind The Cossacks - Yellow Vinyl Edition

                Zirka

                  THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2014 EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

                  Pressed on yellow vinyl, and individually numbered 1-500.

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                  Cover of A Short History Of Rock Music In Ukrainian by The Ukrainians.

                  The Ukrainians

                  A Short History Of Rock Music In Ukrainian

                  Zirka

                    THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2015 EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

                    Beatles, Velvet Underground, Talking Heads, Beach Boys, T-Rex and many more powerfully reinterpreted by John Peel favourites The Ukrainians. Sleeves individually numbered 1 – 750. Vodka-fuelled! Electrifying!

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                    Cover of II by Ulaan Khol.

                    Ulaan Khol

                    II

                    Soft Abuse

                      All heavy with warmth and mystery, Ulaan Khol returns with another round of vertical incantations aimed at the heavens. As Ulaan Khol, Steven R. Smith (Hala Strana, Thuja, Mirza) creates dense tapestries that revel in the eternal and infinite. The bursts of tones and grip on formal structures can compare to the best of Hototogisu or Handful of Dust, though filtered through an ample dose of Ash Ra Tempel. Supreme while discreet, these songs carry a sense of unnerving calm and optimistic gloom, often within a single composition. Swaths of heavy feedback cascade against sinister organ workouts and varied percussion that's at times pounding and at others distant.

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                      Cover of Spiral Horns, Black Onions, Et Al by Ulaan Markhor.

                      Ulaan Markhor

                      Spiral Horns, Black Onions, Et Al

                      Soft Abuse

                        Ulaan Markhor is the latest solo moniker for Californian Steven R. Smith's studio explorations. "Spiral Horns, Black Onions, et al." fuses recent itinerant work under the aliases Ulaan Khol (blistering basement psychedelia) and Ulaan Passerine (moody & meditative zones) abd unveils a distinctly American version of kosmische, with heavy Levon Helm/Clyde Stubblefield-indebted rhythm & groove replacing motorik pulses.

                        Fluid synth, bass, organ and searing guitar textures - all played by Smith - augment the beats. The result is something akin to The Meters meets Amon Duul II.

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                        Cover of Modern English Decoration by Ulrika Spacek.

                        Ulrika Spacek

                        Modern English Decoration

                        Tough Love

                        The relatively short amount of time between their first and second albums is testament to the band’s self-contained creative environment and the productivity it encourages. There’s a tendency to label this degree of self-reliant creativity ‘DIY’ - and the band do certainly feel emboldened by that ethos - yet to consider Modern English Decoration solely in these terms is a disservice. Their craft is considered and purposeful, the means of its production reflecting the band’s overall vision rather than the value system of an often haphazard and accidental DIY culture. “We enjoy listening to music through the album format and want our records to reflect that”, says Rhys Edwards (guitars, vocals, synthesiser).

                        Ulrika Spacek formed in Berlin in one night, when 14-year-long friends Rhys Edwards and Rhys Williams conceptualised ‘Ulrika Spacek’ and came up with The Album Paranoia as their debut album title. Moving back to London with the intention to record it, they were joined by Joseph Stone (guitars, organ, synths, violin), Ben White (bass) and Callum Brown (drums, percussion), ossifying into the five-piece they are now. The album was released soon after with little forewarning and was accompanied by a year long, near-monthly club night called Oysterland.

                        Given the lyrics often favour abstraction and the vocals can be more impressionistic than declarative, the album title itself offers perhaps the most telling entry point to the record. In part, it’s a self-effacing play on an interior design cliché that references the meticulous creative processes the band adheres to. There’s also a nod towards the environment in which it was created – a Victorian house turned art gallery turned home studio

                        Unsurprisingly given the context of its creation, Modern English Decoration might be considered a companion piece of sorts to The Album Paranoia.But there are crucial differences. Most notably, this isn’t the work of the Ulrika Spacek conceptualised by Edwards and Williams in Berlin – Modern English Decoration is the band as five rather than two people, and it shows. Those who have witnessed the intensity of their live show will instantly recognise the merits in this. The bass and drums provide a versatile anchor, at once soft, then aggressive, while the vocals drift woozily in and out, like druggy hindsight or skewed premonition. With three guitarists in the band guitars were always going to be central to the music, but what is less expected is the dynamic interplay between the trio that suggests a three-headed version of the Verlaine-Lloyd axis at the heart of Television. What’s more, the absence of reverb is integral, in part attributable to the ambience of the studio, but also a conscious decision in order to add focus. And focus is the abiding term: this is an album designed to be just so - a 45 minute commitment, a surrender.

                        STAFF COMMENTS

                        Laura says: A fabulous second album, channelling 90s American indie rock with occasional shoegazey shimmer and a smattering of melodic psych.

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                        Cover of The Album Paranoia by Ulrika Spacek.

                        Ulrika Spacek

                        The Album Paranoia

                        Tough Love

                        RIYL: Mercury Rev, Sonic Youth, My Bloody Valentine, Radiohead, Deerhunter, Atlas Sound.

                        Ulrika Spacek is a British experimental rock band formed in Berlin by Rhys Edwards and Rhys Williams, relocated to Homerton, London. Work on debut album ‘The Album Paranoia’ began in the summer of 2014 in the band’s shared house KEN, and was finished there last month. In conjunction to the making of ‘The Album Paranoia’, the band has curated a number of nights under the name ‘Oysterland’ combining their first live performances with a series of exhibitions. The band's music has drawn various interpretations, a cross pollination of hypnotic fuzz, Verlain-Malkmus guitar idiosyncrasies and intertwining feelings of both angst and melancholia. 

                        STAFF COMMENTS

                        Mine says: Ulrika Spacek's debut album is an addictive roller coaster of blissful psychedelia, hypnotic melancholy and raucous, repetitive kraut rock. Heavy and droning in some places, dreamy and pensive in others, its atmospheric soundscape makes it an album to get lost in.

                        FORMAT INFORMATION

                        LP includes MP3 Download Code.

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                        Cover of Dusk by Ultimate Painting.

                        Ultimate Painting

                        Dusk

                        Trouble In Mind

                        Dusk is the third album from London-based duo Ultimate Painting, a ten song set that expands the group’s sound from their self-titled debut and their critically acclaimed sophomore effort Green Lanes, about whose tunes Pitchfork raved their “deceptively simple interplay slowly worms into your synapses...” Dusk heads along the same path, albeit in a slightly different direction, forging to new territory by heading inward. Most groups would kill to have one talented songwriter in their ranks, but Ultimate Painting are lucky enough to be comprised of two singular voices in Jack Cooper and James Hoare.

                        The pair's distinctive songwriting styles began to blur a bit with Green Lanes, but on Dusk it ’s hard to tell where Cooper ends & Hoare begins. Their tunes weave in & out of each other like the duo’s respective six-strings, spiralling around each other in a laconic dance. Album opener ‘Bills’ dives head-first into a crystalline pool of jangle, furthering the duo’s rep as purveyors of the Verlaine/Lloyd legacy, but despite the evident influence of American guitar pop both past & present, the group’s recorded an album that feels decidedly English. Cooper’s abstract poeticism balanced perfectly alongside Hoare’s alluring & universal pop leanings. The group’s discovered a simple lushness in Dusk’s arrangements, sometimes only with subtle additions like Hoare’s recently acquired Wurlitzer piano that drives tunes like ‘Lead The Way’ or washes underneath others like ‘Monday Morning, Somewhere Central’. They've tapped into the subtle grace that infects the mood and emotions experienced at times like sunrise & dusk. Hopefullness. Resignation. Ennui. A breathing in. A breathing out.

                        Dusk was once again recorded to tape by guitarist James Hoare in his London flat. The casual setting allowed the sessions & songs to unfold naturally, with the two of them accompanied by recent live drummer Melissa Rigby, who drums on the entirety of Dusk. Her skills lend a rhythmic elasticity to songs like ‘A Portrait of Jason’ and ‘I Can’t Run Anymore’, with jazzy undertones that break from the band’s previously unadorned 4/4 leanings. Dusk feels different and cements the group’s presence in the modern world guitar pop, finding voice in the allure of quietude.

                        RIYL: Nap Eyes, Luna, Yo La Tengo, Gene Clark, Grateful Dead, White Fence.

                        STAFF COMMENTS

                        Barry says: An equal mix of pastoral English countryside melodies and jangly San-Franciscan flower power vibes, Dusk is a meticulously crafted and impeccably accomplished slice of indie-pop. Sweet, silken vocals and woozy melodic lines are brought together gracefully, and accomplished with such confidence that they make it sound easy. At once a perfect representation of now, and a scintillating herald of days gone by.

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                        Cover of Planet Ultra by Ultra (Orlando Voorn).

                        Ultra (Orlando Voorn)

                        Planet Ultra

                        Multiplex

                        In 1997 legendary producer Orlando Voorn delivered two tracks for the Get Lost and Past-Present+Future compilations, as well as the idea of a full length album for his Ultra moniker. This was completed in 1998 shortly before the initial shutdown of Multiplex. Some tracks were scattered onto other releases, but this Planet Ultra EP is compiled of five previously unreleased compositions from the Multiplex album of the same name, plus the Barwork track - finally on vinyl after more than twenty years.

                        DJing since at the age of 12, he won the Dutch DMC championships in ‘86. Going on to produce a multitude of club bangers since the early 90’s. Spanning many genres, his short lived Ultra alias was reserved for a deep electro vibe.

                        On ice for two decade these classic electro tracks reference the early UK breakbeat of the 90’s as well as the obvious sci-fi connection. To that effect we kick off with "Teflon" and "Plasma", followed by the funky "In The Galaxy" which adds a touch of Herbie Hancock. On the flip side "Ultra Light" evolves to an all-encompassing, atmospheric trip, before the deep "Barwork" and finally "Open".

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                        Ultrababyfat

                        Eight Balls In Reverse

                        Orange

                        Atlanta's favourite trio of power pop vixenettes have done it again, this time delivering a refreshingly gritty sweet pop gem showcasing a musical breadth ranging from straight forward pop crunch and rock heavy velocity to slightly twisted Psychedelia, blending the guitar attack of Cheap Trick, the vocal gymnastics of Throwing Muses and the pop sensibilities of the Bangles, Breeders, and the Beatles without running out of breath. Britta Phillips of LUNA plays bass! Woohoo!

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                        Cover of Conditions For A Piece Of Music by Ultralyd.

                        Ultralyd

                        Conditions For A Piece Of Music

                        Rune Grammofon

                        Ultralyd was formed in 2004 when legendary saxophonist Frode Gjerstad suggested that the trio Gjerstad/Olsen/Hana needed a distinct bass player. The very first rehearsal with Kjetil D Brandsdal (also of Noxagt) was released as the self titled album "Ultralyd" in 2004. After a UK tour the same year the band established the sound captured on the album "Chromosome Gun" which was released in 2005 on the American avant-rock label Load Records. Frode Gjerstad decided to leave later in the year and for a short while the band operated as a trio before recruiting new sax player Kjetil Møster. During two extensive European tours and several studio sessions Ultralyd's direction slowly changed from a rather chaotic free rock approach towards composition and more structured forms of improvisation, experimenting with different layers and altered roles of the instruments, integrating elements from contemporary music, electronic music, funk and doom metal and ending up with something that might be classified as chamber rock. However contradictory that might sound. Ultralyd is part of the N-Collective, an international conglomerate of musicians, composers, improvisors and artists.

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                        Cover of UltraMantis Black by UltraMantis Black.

                        UltraMantis Black

                        UltraMantis Black

                        Relapse

                        Behold the debut EP of the hardcore punk band created to spread the gospel of professional wrestling champion UltraMantis Black. Having spent over a decade dominating the Chikara wrestling scene, UltraMantis teamed up with members of the beloved punk band Pissed Jeans to form a blistering political hardcore band that is equal parts The Locust, Deadguy and Melt Banana. Imagine the best parts of 90s straight-edge hardcore filtered through the bodyslamming genius of Vince McMahon and you have UltraMantis Black! Recommended if you like: Pissed Jeans, (early) Dillinger Escape Plan, Lightning Bolt, Daughters, Agoraphobic Nosebleed, Genghis Tron, Spazz.

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                        Cover of Aún No Has Demostrado Nada by Umbra Sum.

                        Umbra Sum

                        Aún No Has Demostrado Nada

                        Acuarela

                        Umbra Sum is Ed Sánchez-Gómez, a Costa Rican expatriate. Following a love/hate relationship with classical guitar studies at the University of Costa Rica, Umbra Sum emerged in 2003 as a way of reconciling with the instrument. After leaving Costa Rica, Ed wandered around Europe and later Argentina, where he acquired a taste for the South American folk music that permeates his work. He left Argentina to study improvisation in Chicago, where he currently resides.

                        'Aún no has demostrado nada' is the first official release by Umbra Sum: an eclectic mini-album that has hints of the summertime harmonies of the Beach Boys, the psychedelic folk of Los Jaivas, the doleful spirit of Hood, and the melodious uproar of My Bloody Valentine and Dinosaur Jr.

                        In this debut album, harmonious noise, snaking rhythms and layered voices all serve as a chorus that creates a lyrical mural, hearkening to the heavens and earth: like a rudimentary yet well-made treehouse made of exotic woods, projecting out from within the dense Indie-Rock forest that surrounds us.

                        'Aún no has demostrado nada' was recorded by Ed Sánchez-Gómez in Evanston, IL; mixed by Joel Jiménez-Cabezas in Goshen, IN; and mastered by Jeff Lipton (Arcade Fire, Bon Iver, The Magnetic Fields) at Peerless Mastering in Boston, MA.

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                        Cover of Switched On Naples by Piero Umiliani.

                        Piero Umiliani

                        Switched On Naples

                        Sonor Music Editions

                          We're so glad and proud to announce the reissue of a very underrated Piero Umiliani's masterpiece. "SWITCHED ON NAPLES", originally released in 1972 on ‎OmiCron LP 0023, is an outstanding ‪‎Library with pure touch of genius: Maestro Umiliani revisits Naples popular songs in Electronic way by the use of synthesizer. The record is entirely carried out with Electronic sounds. 

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                          Cover of Bermuda Seytan Ucgeni by Umit Aksu Orkestrasi.

                          Umit Aksu Orkestrasi

                          Bermuda Seytan Ucgeni

                          Zel Zele

                            Zel Zele launches with a reissue of a holy grail 7” by Umit Aksu Orkestrasi - a band formed by Turkish pianist, composer and arranger Umit Aksu. Originally released in 1975, “Bermuda Seytan Ucgeni” is an outstanding experimentation of forward-thinking jazz-funk played by some of Turkey’s most talented musicians.

                            “Bermuda Seytan Ucgeni” is the musical adaptation of The Bermuda Triangle, also known as the Devil’s Triangle. A whirlpool leading into a jazz/funk piece with playful horn section, funky bass-line and drum breaks, almost sounding like an adventurous Blaxploitation soundtrack. A daring sax solo comes into play by the second minute that sets the ship on fire. Just when you think that must be it, starts the synthesiser havoc; chaos, alarms, whirlwind all goes off as the mystery of the triangle unfolds.

                            Bogaziçi Köprüsü “Bogaziçi Köprüsü” meaning Bosphorus Bridge, is the name of the first bridge in Istanbul that connects the Asian and European sides of the city. The track was released 2 years after the bridge was built. It starts with a car engine which is about to take a nostalgic and playful ride through the Bosphorus Bridge. Melodic, synth led tune that reminds us of early Italian library recordings.

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                            Cover of 707 by Umoja.

                            Umoja

                            707

                            Awesome Tapes From Africa

                            A monumental career in pop music isn't easy when the system is built against you. But South African songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist "Om" Alec Khaoli managed to do just that with his band Umoja. As apartheid reached its violent peak, Khaoli pursued an escapist form of dance music that resonated across his complicated country, influencing countless legends and releasing recordings across the world. Umoja, which means oneness or unity in Swahili, was clear in its message to the public. "Oriented towards society, advocating uniting of people. Race was the big thing," Khaoli says. "We wanted people to come together and unite and just form a oneness." Indeed the band's fanbase was mixed among black, colored and white fans. However, their lyrics were not overtly political. "If you wrote songs about apartheid, we would disguise them. If we used language as it was, we would get arrested." The band helped refine a commercially powerful emergent style, bubblegum, with the album 707 in 1988. "Bubblegum music was about escape," according to Khaoli. "If you had grown up in South Africa at the time, there was nothing more in your life than oppression. It was even in your dreams. Anything that was a way out was welcome... When this music was playing everyone just wanted to dance, just have a good time." 

                            STAFF COMMENTS

                            Patrick says: There's a special place in my heart for Afro-synth stuff, and this set of Bubblegum business from Umoja is right up my alley. Sparkling synthwork, cheesy melodies and uplifting vocals - what more could you possibly want from life?

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                            Uncle Brian

                            It Just Seems Right EP

                            20 Deck

                            The latest release from Uncle Brian "It Just Seems Right" is their best work to date. This six track mini album is bigger and better for Salisbury's finest ska / pop punkers.

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                            Cover of March 16-20, 1992 by Uncle Tupelo.

                            Uncle Tupelo

                            March 16-20, 1992

                            Columbia

                            At long last a superb reissue from this massively influential band that featured Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy and Mike Heirdon.

                            FORMAT INFORMATION

                            CD Info: Digitally remastered from the original tapes, with a booklet containing many unseen photos, memorablia and new liner notes by Rolling Stone's David Fricke.

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                            Cover of No Depression by Uncle Tupelo.

                            Uncle Tupelo

                            No Depression

                            Columbia

                            At long last a superb reissue from this massively influential band that featured Jay Farrar, Jeff Tweedy and Mike Heirdon.

                            FORMAT INFORMATION

                            CD Info: Digitally remastered from the original tapes, with a booklet containing many unseen photos, memorablia and new liner notes by Rolling Stone's David Fricke.

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                            Cover of No Depression - Rarities by Uncle Tupelo.

                            Uncle Tupelo

                            No Depression - Rarities

                            Legacy / SONY BMG Music

                              THIS IS A RECORD STORE DAY 2018 EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED TO ONE PER PERSON.

                              First time on LP Vinyl (Black).

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                              Cover of Look! Who's Sorry Now? by The Uncomfortables.

                              The Uncomfortables

                              Look! Who's Sorry Now?

                              Uncomfortables

                              The release of "Look! Who's Sorry Now?" follows the success of previous single "Windmills", backed with "Vodka Stomach" and "Set Me Free", this is intense psychedelic-surf-pop with twinges of the Modern Lovers, Twin Peaks and film noir.

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                              Under A Dying Sun

                              Under A Dying Sun

                              Substandard

                              Debut album from Under A Dying Sun formed in the Bay area from ex-members of Three Summers Gone, Nexus Six and Living Room War. It's a highly anticipated set of high-intensity emocore tracks that have a moody reflective edge but when it gets heavy (as it does-frequently) then brother look out!

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                              Cover of CVO Elements EP by Glenn Underground.

                              Glenn Underground

                              CVO Elements EP

                              Groovin Recordings EP

                              Big one from Big Glenn's catalogue. "CVO Elements" was originally released in 1997 and finds the producer in a sweet spot of high clarity, infectious rhythms and warm, melodic sounds. 

                              Possessing that incessant swing-n-shuffle that'd characterize much of his output. the tracks here are laced with exotic guitar lines, punchy bass presets and velvety strings, with sexy piano chords, weaving organ lines and pitch-bent keys breaking through the grooves adding a touch of elegance to proceedings. 

                               2018 repress © Groovin Recordings and licensed courtesy of Glenn Underground. Sounding better than ever!

                              STAFF COMMENTS

                              Matt says: Frenetic house grooves from no other than Glenn Underground. Yes it's a repress but if until now this EP's evaded your attention then you need to address the situation rapid and check this one out!

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                              Cover of White Night Stand by Underground Railroad.

                              Underground Railroad

                              White Night Stand

                              One Little Indian

                              Parisian émigrés Underground Railroad return with a brand new album ‘White Night Stand’, a record that finally strikes the keynote of what the band are all about.

                              Across its 11 songs, produced by the band in London's Stamford Hill, guitars explore and meander, circling the biggest melodies of the band's career so far. It's intense and amped, touching and subtle at points and hugely tuneful, taking in early Radiohead and Liars as well as the beloved American alt rock bands that made the three fall in love with music in the first place.

                              There are moments of fitting intensity. Most notably 'Seagull Attack', the album's crescendo centrepiece, that clocks in at over nine minutes with its hypnotic repetitive guitar cascade. Then there's the distinctly Radioheadesque 'Ginkgo Biloba', another album highlight.

                              Further inspiration across the album came from ‘Twin Peaks’ and David Lynch, with Marion naming 'The Black Widow', 'The Orchid's Curse', and 'Traces To Nowhere' after episodes of the show, and 'Yellow Suit' in reference to his 'Blue Velvet' film.

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                              Cover of A Lo-Fi Cinematic Landscape by Underground Youth.

                              Underground Youth

                              A Lo-Fi Cinematic Landscape

                              Fuzz Club

                                Lo-fi Cinematic Landscape is a collection of primarily instrumental recordings that would form the soundtrack to an unfinished short film by Craig Dyer began work on back in 2013. Although the script was never fully conceived and no footage was filmed, these recordings accompany the story as he imagined it would be told. Originally released by Fnord Tapes on tape back in 2015. 

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                                Cover of Delirium by Underground Youth.

                                Underground Youth

                                Delirium

                                Fuzz Club

                                  The album has been remastered for the repress and that the vinyl version comes with a die-cut cover. Delirium’ was the fifth LP from cult psych/post-punk outfit The Underground Youth, who formed in 2008 and are currently based in Berlin. Originally released in 2011 London-based imprint Fuzz Club are reflecting on the bands extensive back-catalogue and repressing the 12” with a brand new CD reissue. ’Delirium’ harks back to TheUnderground Youth’s earlier psychedelic sound, offering minimalistic and bluesy psychedelia at its best. The album is an unapologetic ode to Craig’s musical heroes, dining on an influence from the likes of Spacemen 3, The Velvet Underground and BJM in its haunting psych instrumentals and beautifully crafted vocals and lyricism that fall somewhere between Bob Dylan and Ian Curtis. 

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                                  Cover of Fill The Void by Underground Youth.

                                  Underground Youth

                                  Fill The Void

                                  Fuzz Club

                                    The Underground Youth have always been steeped in a romantic nostalgia, their poignant psychedelic post-punk sounding like what might happen if Rowland S. Howard, Leonard Cohen, Bauhaus and The Velvet Underground jammed in a room together, but on this new 45 the band have turned this nostalgia in on themselves. The lyrics are taken from Dyer’s old notebooks dating back nearly a decade and in its minimalistic yet impassioned instrumentation, it also feels like somewhat of a throwback to the older recordings that left them to pick up a cult following (their 2010 LP Mademoiselle 2010 picking up over six million views on Youtube.) 'Fill The Void' and 'Take Me Awry' offer a reflective journey through the band's impassioned psychedelic post-punk, with it's 80s-style percussion, funeral vocals croons and dark jangly instrumentation that occasionally breaks down into a whirlwind of fuzzed-out guitars.

                                    This desire to strip things back to their raw fundamentals and reflect on the last decade of the project came after the two tracks were nearly shelved because they didn’t quite fit the new direction they’re set to travel down on their forthcoming album. “We’d been experimenting with a completely different sound whilst in the studio recording our ninth album. What we created with these two tracks wasn't really what I was looking for and so I almost scrapped them,” Craig continues: “I just couldn't shake the rhythm of 'Fill the Void' though, we ran through the track as a band and took it out on the road. It fast became one of the most exciting tracks of our set, with Olya's pounding drum and Leo jumping on the additional snare towards the end. When we got back from the tour we revisited the tracks in the studio and decided to use them for a special release.” As The Underground Youth set to delve into exciting new waters, on this special release they've taken us on a typically-gloomy trip down memory lane - not just in terms of post-punk and psychedelia's darker histories, but also for the band themselves.

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                                    Cover of Haunted by The Underground Youth.

                                    The Underground Youth

                                    Haunted

                                    Fuzz Club Records

                                    Manchester's The Underground Youth is here with with yet another hauntingly beautiful record that blends shoegaze, post-punk and psychedelia. TUY is the name under which Manchester’s underground poet, Craig Dyer, has produced his records since 2009. In 2011, Fuzz Club Records started putting out his prolific catalogue, bringing to light a number of LPs and singles that had only circulated virally on the Internet. Since then, TUY, with Craig and Olya Dyer as the core of the band, have expanded to a five piece, gaining a solid international fan-base and touring all around the UK and Europe.

                                    Drowned In Sound said of their Eindhoven set: “combining the mesmeric rhythms of The Velvet Underground - Olya Dyer's driving beats make her the new psych generation's Mo Tucker - with rippling feedback associated with Bad Moon Risingera Sonic Youth and a dash of the Mary Chain thrown in as well, they're a captivating force”. 

                                    STAFF COMMENTS

                                    Barry says: Manchester's Underground Youth return with another slice of post-everything psych-rock-tronica. Combining beautiful guitar melodies and repeated vocal refrains with overwhelming pastoral electronic washes, this is a collection founded on indie pioneers past, but expanded upon to the Nth degree and updated. 'Drown In Me' is a particularly accomplished slice of synth-heavy industrial sadness, interspersed with bursts of cautiously optimistic shoegaze-y guitars. Nothing too sunny about this, but it's nice to wallow in the bleakness of life sometimes, and there really is no better way to do it. A soundtrack to industrial ruins, and rainy evenings. Highly recommended.

                                    FORMAT INFORMATION

                                    Ltd LP Info: Limited repress!

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                                    Cover of Feel It (Only When The Music Is Real) by Glenn Underground.

                                    Glenn Underground

                                    Feel It (Only When The Music Is Real)

                                    Strictly Jazz Unit

                                    Rejoice! For deep house master Glenn Underground returns to the seminal Strictly Jazz Unit for a BRAND NEW house jaunt. Always certain to cause a ripple of excitement over these parts, it also comes loaded with a classic CVO mix and instrumental. 

                                    Championed by some leading tastemakers from the second it emerged, "Feel It (Only When The Music's Real)" is a sumptious patelle of clavs, keys, organs and strings, underpinned by warm bassline and powered by lively, biotic drums. A proper 'song' structure guides us through vocalist Yaminah's inspired delivery while Glenn's effortless knack at dynamics and arrangement ensure our attention is hooked till the very last bar of music.

                                    Donning his CVO guise, Glenn flips the track with a more electrofied version; tailored more towards late, nightclub play and for me sounding like it belongs on the dancefloors of Barbarellas (Croatia), Shelter (New York),  Fabric (London) and Mint (Leeds). Wonderful stuff.  

                                    STAFF COMMENTS

                                    Matt says: New stuff from Glenn who refuses to hand over the deep house music heavyweight belt just yet. Coming out the blocks with a tasty new jam, funky and soul on the A side with a more nocturnal flavour on the flip. Check!

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                                    Cover of Hypnotised by The Undertones.

                                    The Undertones

                                    Hypnotised

                                    Salvo Music

                                      As critically acclaimed and as commercially successful as the Undertones debut LP, Hypnotised features both the classic 3 minute pop punk of its predecessor (listen to My Perfect Cousin, There Goes Norman and Whizz Kids) whilst highlighting a new found maturity and sensitivity with tracks like the plaintive 'Wednesday Week' and stately 'The Way Girls Talk'.

                                      2016 digital remaster from the original master tapes.

                                      FORMAT INFORMATION

                                      Ltd LP Info: 180 gram heavyweight vinyl, original artwork replicated.

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                                      Cover of Misfortune Comes By Means Of The Mouth by Underule.

                                      Underule

                                      Misfortune Comes By Means Of The Mouth

                                      Blackfish

                                      Uncompromising, vehement and bestial metallic hardcore characterised by unrelenting bloody throat screaming, searing guitar breaks and a steamhammer rhythm section. As angry a record as I've heard all year. Not for the faint hearted...

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                                      Cover of Wilderbeast by Jack Underwood.

                                      Jack Underwood

                                      Wilderbeast

                                      O Genesis

                                      "A few months ago it was decided that OGen004 would be a vinyl and digital release of some poems by Jack Underwood. We had no real idea how much interest would be generated by a 7" single of poetry but everyone who had heard Jack's poetry seemed to like it and the idea was we would treat it like any other release of a song by a band - we thought that if we didn't make out we thought it was a little odd that nobody else would."

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                                      Cover of Teatime Dub Encounters by Underworld & Iggy Pop.

                                      Underworld & Iggy Pop

                                      Teatime Dub Encounters

                                      Caroline International

                                      Underworld and Iggy Pop collaborate for "Teatime Dub Encounters", released via Caroline International.While overseeing the soundtrack for T2 Trainspotting, Underworld’s Rick Smith arranged a meeting with Iggy Pop in a room at the Savoy Hotel on London’s Strand to discuss working on collaborative music for the film.

                                      Says Rick Smith 'Iggy was staying at The Savoy and graciously said 'yeah you know we we can meet and talk about something' because we both felt a strong connection to Trainspotting and to Danny. I turned up thinking I've got one chance here to convince this gentleman that we should work together. So I turned up with basically half my studio, hired a hotel room, set up and sat waiting'. Their respective tracks "Lust for Life" and "Born Slippy (Nuxx)" had perfectly bookended the first Trainspotting film two decades previously. On arrival, Iggy found a fully working studio set up and eagerness to get cracking.

                                      Says Iggy Pop 'When you are confronted with somebody who has a whole bloody studio there in the hotel room, a Skyped director who has won the Oscar recently and a fucking microphone in front of you and 30 finished pieces of very polished music, you don't want to be the wimp that goes 'uh uhhh', so my mind was racing.'

                                      "Teatime Dub Encounters" is the result of a few clandestine hotel room recording sessions, that began a few weeks after Underworld and Iggy Pop had each released their last albums. It is neither historical or a tribute to past work. It is the work of artists in motion, engaged in a process that both bring to all of their work - one that uses spontaneity as a spur for creativity.

                                      The first track from "Teatime Dub Encounters", "Bells & Circles", was premiered live as part of Underworld’s recent headline performance at the BBC Biggest Weekend Belfast. A second track "I’ll See Big", is streaming everywhere now. Something of a flipside to "Bells & Circles"," I’ll See Big" is a
                                      wash of gorgeous ambient sound that features Iggy recounting how friends – however dysfunctional – have saved him from a lifetime of bad decisions. The lyric for I’ll See Big was inspired by a conversation Iggy had with Danny Boyle about the subtext of both Trainspotting films.


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                                      Cover of Beaucoup Fish by Underworld.

                                      Underworld

                                      Beaucoup Fish

                                      UMC

                                        "Beaucoup Fish" is the fifth album by Underworld, released in 1999. Following the huge success of the single "Born Slippy" from its use in the film Trainspotting, Beaucoup Fish was Underworld's most anticipated release. It spawned several successful singles, including "Push Upstairs", "Jumbo" and "Moaner", which was previously used in the film Batman & Robin. "Beaucoup Fish" was well-received critically (one review calling it 'electronica's "The Dark Side of the Moon"') and remains Underworld's most successful album, with over one million copies sold. It is the last studio album to feature Darren Emerson who departed in 2001 and third album by the techno / house orientated version of Underworld which became active in about 1991/1992 (tracks were being released around this time under the names Lemon Interupt and Underworld). I personally remember this being a particularly arresting album in 1999, with a rollercoaster of dynamics which took you to the dizzying heights of techno stompers "Push Upstairs" & "King Of Snake" and down to the come-down frazzled lullabies of "Skym" and "Winjer" via the Portishead-esque introspection of "Push Downstairs" and the baggy breakbeats of "Bruce Lee". A classic.

                                        FORMAT INFORMATION

                                        4xDeluxe CD Info: The bespoke remastered super deluxe format features 40 tracks across 4CDs with a 60 page booklet. It includes the original albums classic singles remastered for 2016 as well as unreleased tracks, alternative versions & B-sides.

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                                        Cover of Dubnobasswithmyheadman - Remastered 2xLP Edition by Underworld.

                                        Underworld

                                        Dubnobasswithmyheadman - Remastered 2xLP Edition

                                        UMC

                                        Two decades on from its release in 1994, this is one of the most influential British electronic records of all time. To celebrate its twentieth anniversary the album has been meticulously remastered at Abbey Road for a deluxe reissue by Underworld’s Rick Smith.

                                        The 2LP Vinyl - pressed on 180gm - contains the original album, remastered by Rick Smith from the original MIDI.

                                        Having seen their synth-rock band Freur grind to a halt in 1989, Karl Hyde and Rick Smith relocated to Romford, hooked up with DJ Darren Emerson and became the art-rock reinvented as techno outfit Underworld. Featuring Smith's stream of consciousness vocals (created by taking a pen an paper with him and “mapping out journeys across cities at night”) and Smith, Emerson and Hyde's immense electronica / techno cuts (equally inspired by early influences like Kraftwerk, Steve Reich, Hawkwind and  Tangerine Dream as the early 90s Romford rave scene) 'Dubnobasswithmyheadman' is a landmark 1990s techno album. With Emerson on hand to road test tracks in his DJ sets, the album has key dancefloor winners, but also works a home-listening full length LP. 


                                        FORMAT INFORMATION

                                        2xLP includes MP3 Download Code.

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                                        Cover of Dubnobasswithmyheadman - Remastered 5xCD Edition by Underworld.

                                        Underworld

                                        Dubnobasswithmyheadman - Remastered 5xCD Edition

                                        UMC

                                        Two decades on from its release in 1994, this is one of the most influential British electronic records of all time. To celebrate its twentieth anniversary the album has been meticulously remastered at Abbey Road for a deluxe reissue by Underworld’s Rick Smith. Revisiting the original MIDI files, Rick uncovered a wealth of previously unreleased material and rare alternate mixes that sit alongside the record’s original companion singles and remixes and offer a fascinating insight into the creation of the record. The resultant release is the definitive version of one of those rare records that truly deserves its iconic status.

                                        This LP-sized 5-CD Super Deluxe Box Set contain the original remastered album, associated singles and remixes, previously unreleased bonus tracks and an entire 7-song live jam. Box Set contains a book containing memorabilia from the period and new artworks by design collective tomato.

                                        Having seen their synth-rock band Freur grind to a halt in 1989, Karl Hyde and Rick Smith relocated to Romford, hooked up with DJ Darren Emerson and became the art-rock reinvented as techno outfit Underworld. Featuring Smith's stream of consciousness vocals (created by taking a pen an paper with him and “mapping out journeys across cities at night”) and Smith, Emerson and Hyde's immense electronica / techno cuts (equally inspired by early influences like Kraftwerk, Steve Reich, Hawkwind and  Tangerine Dream as the early 90s Romford rave scene) 'Dubnobasswithmyheadman' is a landmark 1990s techno album. With Emerson on hand to road test tracks in his DJ sets, the album has key dancefloor winners, but also works a home-listening full length LP. 

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                                        Cover of Second Toughest In The Infants - 4xCD Super Deluxe Edition by Underworld.

                                        Underworld

                                        Second Toughest In The Infants - 4xCD Super Deluxe Edition

                                        Underworld / UMC

                                        Originally released in March 1996, 'Second Toughest In The Infants' is Underworld’s masterpiece. Following 1994’s groundbreaking predecessor 'Dubnobasswithmyheadman' (the record that cemented the band’s reputation as one of the UK’s most important dance acts), 'Second Toughest…' was the point they forged out alone, in turn creating some of the most forward thinking electronic music this country has ever produced. This reissue sees the album remastered for the first time for a series of special editions that collects together for the first time rare singles, remixes and unreleased studio and live tracks.

                                        'Second Toughest…' is the perfect hybrid of man and machine. It’s a record that crackles with the frantic energy of pirate stations half tuned on FM dials; one that strolls through grimy cities at night and ducks between dog tracks and neon-lit all-night stores. Lyrically, it’s voyeurism from the molten core of the dancefloor - a place where fragments of overheard conversations are hand spliced to fizzling, sparking rhythm tracks to create a strange, dizzying, inimitable form of music.

                                        Although informed by the nascent drum’n’bass scene, minimalist composition and the European techno underground, Second Toughest… only ends up sounding like Underworld. It’s a truly unique album – the sound of Rick Smith, Karl Hyde and Darren Emerson working at the height of their powers, utterly unaffected by the prevailing trends of the time and creating properly peerless music.

                                        As with 'dubnobasswithmyheadman', the reissue of 'Second Toughest In The Infants' sees the original album remastered for the first time (at Abbey Road). The extra discs feature non-album singles, B-sides and remixes from the time as well as a selection of previously unreleased tracks that provide a fascinating insight into the creative process around the record. The fourth disc on the super-deluxe version features the seven unreleased recordings that map out the genesis of 'Born Slippy (Nuxx)'. They take the iconic track from earliest embryonic studio version through to a final extended mix via several previously unheard live versions from 1994

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                                        Cover of The Undisco Kidds by Boots For Dancing.

                                        Boots For Dancing

                                        The Undisco Kidds

                                        Athens Of The North

                                        Born at Scotland's postpunk crossroads in 1979, Boots For Dancing kicked down the boundary walls of a played-out scene and introduced the UK to a more funky way of doing Punk. Hugely popular as a live act, often wiping the floor with the bands they were supporting, Boots was something genuinely ahead of the epoch's curve and played an important part in the vanguard of the burgeoning Post Punk and Punk-Funk movements. Sadly, Boots For Dancing's light shone brightly but briefly, though the band had connections with, and cross-pollinations between, better-known acts such as The Rezillos, The Human League and Josef K. Their boundless energy and undeniable talent never proved quite enough for great success. Great songs, even bolstered with good looks, are no guarantee of success in the fickle music business. Ultimately, business got in their way and the group disbanded in 1982 with just a few single releases in its canon, though a wealth of potential hits had been put to tape. Athens of the North is proud to present the band's 1982 album-that-never-was - an album that surely would have made them. It still sounds as fresh as it was when recorded.

                                        - The holy grail lost scottlish post punk LP - Extensive Sleeve Notes by Music and Theature writer Neil Cooper'

                                        - Additional Sleeve notes by Jo Callis (Human League /Rezillos) and Mark Hagen (BBC Radio)

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                                        Cover of The Oncoming Storm by Unearth.

                                        Unearth

                                        The Oncoming Storm

                                        Metal Blade

                                        "The Oncoming Storm", Unearth's third album and Metal Blade debut is probably their best to date, some achievement following on as it does from the critically acclaimed "Stings Of Conscience" and "Endless" LPs. This release should definitely cement their position as nu-metal/hardcore innovators, a reputation that has earned them tour slots with In Flames, Hatebreed, Lamb Of God, Killswitch Engage, Soilwork and Chimera. Vocalist Trevor Phipps gives his most powerful performance, alternating hardcore razored throat rage with a cleaner vocal style; all beautifully set against a burning double seven string guitar assault and bruising double bass, fuelling crushing breakdowns. Gorgeous, apocalyptic and articulate.

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                                        Cover of BAROC004 by Unfinished Portraits.

                                        Unfinished Portraits

                                        BAROC004

                                        Baroc

                                        Cologne's techno powerhouse Baroc arrive at release number four with a little help from Cairo producer/producers (no info on that one!) Unfinished Portraits, who drop three deep and dope untitled cuts! Stretching over the whole of the A-side, the EP opener is a sophisticated techno cut driven into the heart of the dancefloor by a low-rolling bassline and hissing hats. The subdued pads and subtle tape hiss give the track texture, while the slinky keys and skitterish vocal samples add an air of mystery that'll keep you coming back for more. On the flipside, Unfinished Portraits take us to church with a gospel-techno bomb whose father, son and holy spirit are KDJ, Levon and Legowelt. Hard hitting percussion, impish leadlines and smoked out church samples combine perfectly into an uplifting club cut that'll make a saint out of the staunchest sinner. The B2 closes the EP out in mindboggling fashion as Egypt's finest mix a dislocated drum track with intangible pads and serve chilled with murmered vocals. Far out! 

                                        FORMAT INFORMATION

                                        12" Info: Hand-stamped with postcard inserts

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                                        The Unfinished Sympathy

                                        The Unfinished Sympathy

                                        B Core

                                        A fine emocore release from a band who are compared to Jets to Brazil, Joshua and Chamberlain. Elegant, simple yet with complex undercurrents. Strong songs and a great debut.

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                                        Cover of Unhappy Shoppers by Unhappy Shoppers.

                                        Unhappy Shoppers

                                        Unhappy Shoppers

                                        Box Bedroom Rebels

                                        BBR#17 IS HERE!
                                        It's by Mancunian (well, Ashton Under Lyne actually), instrumental, electronic four-piece Unhappy Shoppers, a group of youngsters who make DIY electronica in the same style as those acts who graced MORR Music / Awkward Silence Records and City Centre Offices with the likes of Solvent, Isan, Bauri etc. It's what they call domestic disco - one side is quirky pop and the otherside is downtempo'd coldwave. I love it as it reminds me of that golden age of electronica and indie-minded youths mixing styles and influences. A glorious EP of electro beats, walls of distorted battered syths, faulty radio waves, melancholic rhythms, wierd sounds and a whirr & click groove. The sound of the suburbs channelled through affordable technology! 'Horsepower And The Modern Slog' is an upbeat electro stormer with a gorgeous melody. 'Ersatz Beat' could be by Adult or LeCar or Perspects with its minimal approach. 'Every Day' is a beautiful dreamy pop tune that could be what happened if The Field Mice went electro-pop while 'Untitled 2' is a gloomy hazy blurred downtempo track with more than a hint of doom. 'Save As' concludes with dark industrious tones sunk deep in its recesses while toxic gloop seeps from knife wounds across its tattoo-covered arms. 

                                        Limited 6 track 7" & 7 track download in a doublesided sleeve with a double sided insert  including 'colour your own' insert on one side (colouring pencils included). The envelope contains all the usual Box Bedroom Goodies - BBR Letter with detailed band notes, bag of confetti & download code. Beautifully presented as always. Recommended tackle from Manchester's finest 7" label!

                                        FORMAT INFORMATION

                                        Ltd 7" Info: Limited 6 track 7" & 7 track download in a doublesided sleeve with a double sided insert including 'colour your own' insert on one side (colouring pencils included). The envelope contains all the usual Box Bedroom Goodies - BBR Letter with detailed band notes, bag of confetti & download code.

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                                        Cover of Co-Hearance EP by The Unheard.

                                        The Unheard

                                        Co-Hearance EP

                                        Unicycle Nutfish Productions

                                        Seven track EP of beats and breaks from The Unheard, whose previous release was on Switchflicker. On the A-side we get five cuts that range from trad jazz chop ups, via sofa-loafing downbeat and sultry hip hop-soul to uptempo b-boy throw downs. Flip over for a seriously mellow dubwise track and the epic 13 minute "Attack of the Vibrarian" cut'n'paste extravaganza.

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                                        Cover of Metaphysical Lives by Uni Omni.

                                        Uni Omni

                                        Metaphysical Lives

                                        Vivod

                                        Kicking off Vivod's new 'Pheasant' series (!!!) and making their debut on the label, UNI.OMNI are a Glaswegian duo comprising of MWX and Wave Energy Converter. Inspired by feelings of duality and the unpredictability of our dynamic world, UNI.OMNI respond with challenging dark electronic notes, driven vocals and expansive percussive backdrops. Their tracks emit contradictory feelings of chaos and calm, motion and stillness, frustration and excitement, whilst using the energy and turmoil of big city life as motivation for their first EP. "Acceptance Resistance" kicks things off with an experimental, cavernous foray that shifts to the rhythmic, subliminal undertones of "Metaphysical Lives". Both "Sequential Self" and "Viral Dread" are attuned to empowerment, exacerbated by the strains of the modern world, with strong vocals reiterating the need for resilience in the forgotten generation. As usual, uncompromising and empowering stuff from the Vivod label - techno punks, neo-industrialists, interstellar fugitives and free-party mavericks need only apply.

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                                        Cover of Ghosthouse by Uniform.

                                        Uniform

                                        Ghosthouse

                                        Sacred Bones

                                          Uniform formed in New York City in 2013 when old friends Ben Greenberg (ex-The Men, Hubble, and the producer/engineer responsible for much of the Sacred Bones catalog) and Michael Berdan (ex-Drunkdriver, York Factory Complaint) reconnected and realized that they had evolved to a similar place musically. Wanting as intimate an experience as possible, they decided to keep the project a two-man show, eschewing a live rhythm section for programmed drums and low-end synths, augmented with Greenberg playing guitar and Berdan handling vocals. The collaboration quickly yielded a raw 12", followed by a full-length, Perfect World. The Ghosthouse12", is the first Uniform release on Sacred Bones Records, and it will be followed by a full-length in early 2017.

                                          Ghosthouse shares a basic configuration with the previous Uniform releases, but the tools have evolved far beyond their initial drum machine and bass synth setup. These songs have grown from a broader palette of sounds — shots, explosions, implosions, impacts, ricochets, collapse; the sounds of conflict, war, and destruction that we witness every day. The result is the most sonically confrontational Uniform material to date, and Berdan’s lyrics, largely inspired by his lifelong battle with insomnia and depression, match them for relentlessness.

                                          The three songs on Ghosthouseshow the incisiveness that Greenberg and Berdan now have at their command. The title track addresses the feeling of lying awake at night and wondering if it’s still possible to make peace with an estranged friend after their death. “Waiting Period,” a riff on the Hubert Selby Jr. novel of the same name, is the internal dialogue of a man waiting for his handgun application to clear so he can kill himself. The “Symptom of the Universe” cover pays mostly faithful homage to Black Sabbath, but trades the original’s “summer skies of love” for something far bleaker. These tracks reveal the incredible range that’s possible within the Uniform musical template, and they provide a fascinating glimpse of what’s to come.


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                                          Cover of The Long Walk by Uniform.

                                          Uniform

                                          The Long Walk

                                          Sacred Bones

                                            Following the release of critically acclaimed LP Wake in Fright, which had two songs featured in the new season of David Lynch’s Twin Peaks, it was time for Uniform vocalist Michael Berdan and instrumentalist Ben Greenberg to return to the studio. The duo decided to up the ante and add a third member to help perfect their vicious post-industrial dystopian cyber-punk. After some deliberation, Greenberg called upon drummer Greg Fox (Liturgy, Zs) to help round out the sound they were looking for. Using a mix of triggered samples and real drums along with layered synths and good old electric guitar, the trio arrived at what would become The Long Walk after only a few short days in the studio.

                                            From the opening whirr of the title track, it’s clear that the band is onto something special. Recorded in Strange Weather studios in the first part of 2018, The Long Walk is eight new tracks by the duo of Greenberg and Berdan, incorporating Fox’s skills behind the drum kit to add an entirely new dimension to the signature Uniform sound. Ditching sequenced tracks, Greenberg opted for single takes to highlight the Frankenstein-like guitar-bass-synth hybrid that oozes throughout the recording. Meanwhile, crushing guitar thunder is punched up by Fox’s masterful drumming while Berdan’s cries from the nether feel more desperate and morose than ever. This is Uniform at its most bleak, emotional, and powerful.

                                            Lyrically, The Long Walk deals with paradoxes in spirituality and organized religion. Berdan went to Catholic school for most of his primary education. Fear of Biblical hell and damnation felt tangible. As Berdan grew and matured emotionally, he began to reject Catholicism bit by bit. In the recent past, Berdan found himself slowly reconnecting with his background, observing how the faith that he found so repressive served as a great source of comfort and strength for so many. Yet therein lay the contradiction that drove him from religion in the first place — many of the human traditions of the church also dealt in repression, intolerance, and bigotry. Could one observe the rituals and practice of a faith while acknowledging and rejecting its ugliest elements?


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                                            Cover of Wake In Fright by Uniform.

                                            Uniform

                                            Wake In Fright

                                            Sacred Bones

                                            Wake in Fright, the second full-length by the New York City duo Uniform, is a harrowing exploration of self-medication, painted in the colors of war. Following the Ghosthouse 12", whose A-side Pitchfork called “their most relentless track yet,” vocalist Michael Berdan and guitarist/producer Ben Greenberg return with a new batch of even more punishing songs that incorporate elements of industrial music, thrash metal, harsh noise, and power electronics.

                                            “This record is primarily about psychic transition,” Berdan explained. “The distress that these songs attempt to illustrate comes from a place of stagnation and monotony. This is what happens when old ways of thinking become exhausted and old ways of coping prove ineffective. Something must change or it will break.”

                                            The characters Berdan brings to life in his lyrics quit using but have ruinous relapses (“Habit”) or struggle as their resolve crumbles (“Bootlicker”); they use alcohol to ease their insomnia but and are helpless when they get sober and stop sleeping again (“Night of Fear”); they’re existential misanthropes trapped in dead-end lives (“The Lost”).

                                            Greenberg sets these stories to menacing guitar and samples of literal sounds of war — the kick drums are bombs going off, the snares are gunshots. He drew the record’s immense sample library from action movies, Foley sound packs, field recordings, and more, and the result is devastating. The guitar is also as crucial as ever, and now as indebted Slayeras it is to Big Black. Greenberg conjures up massive riffs and shredding solos, pushing the band deeper into the metal world whose borderlands they’ve long stalked.

                                            “We are surrounded by war and the whole world is burning and it doesn’t seem like there are any appropriate reactions or responses left anymore,” Greenberg elaborated. “This music is our response to and our reflection of the overwhelming violence, chaos, hate, and destruction that confronts us and everyone else in the world every day of our lives. When we play, I don’t feel powerless anymore. I hope this record can help others transcend their anger and frustration.”

                                            STAFF COMMENTS

                                            Barry says: A visceral and brutal assault of double kick drums, pummelling grindcore guitars and low-fi gritty production aesthetic make this a force to be reckoned with. Electronic backboned brutalist sound sculptures for the enraged.

                                            FORMAT INFORMATION

                                            Coloured LP Info: Indies exclusive white vinyl.

                                            Coloured LP includes MP3 Download Code.

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                                            Cover of Cheetah In The City by Union Analogtronics & Blu.

                                            Union Analogtronics & Blu

                                            Cheetah In The City

                                            Fat Beats

                                            Hot off collaborations with Nottz ("Titans in the Flesh EP") and Madlib ("Bad Neighbor LP"), SoCal ambassador Blu has teamed up with the Paris-based production team Union Analogtronics (OJ & Gold) to unleash a new full length album: "Cheetah in the City". Featuring Dam-Funk, Phat Kat, Frank N Dank, and more, the album signifies a stylistic sea change for Blu, best known for his dusty, soul sampling collaborations with Exile (Below the Heavens) and his own introspective opuses ("Her Favorite Colour", "Good to be Home", "York!"). Rippling with 808s and cinematic strings, "Cheetah in the City" is an organic evolution from the synth-soaked, futuristic sound of "Analogtronics", Union’s 2012 Fat Beats Records debut album featuring Talib Kweli, MF DOOM, Elzhi, Guilty Simpson, and more. After mutual friends put them in touch at a Parisian post-show after-party, Blu and Union began a musical exchange that spanned continents. Blu returned to LA with Union’s best beats, and after months of exchanging lyrical ideas, the trio regrouped for marathon recording sessions in Union’s Paris-based studio. Cloistered for weeks with nothing but drum machines, instruments, keyboards, records, and France’s best bud, Blu became obsessed with infusing his kicked back Southern California sensibilities into Union’s penchant for pushing the possibilities of technicality into multilayered, densely packed productions. A cohesive story emerged in the songwriting: a young man, raised amongst deadbeats, killers, and hard drugs, metamorphoses into the Cheetah, a money-making predator whose quick talk and cold hustle make him the king of a city that will eventually consume him, heart and soul. We’ve never heard Blu like this.

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                                            Cover of Violence & Birdsong by Union Of Knives.

                                            Union Of Knives

                                            Violence & Birdsong

                                            Relentless

                                            Union Of Knives – made in Glasgow: Get a map out and draw a line that joins Canada's Arcade Fire, Iceland's Sigur Ros, Norway's Royksopp and come to rest at Scotland's Union Of Knives. What do all these places have in common? Short days and long nights. Music and sound born out of extreme environments and cultural diversity. Glasgow and Union Of Knives, two rough diamonds of the north, inextricably linked. You're going to like this album very much indeed. "Violence and Birdsong" is the culmination of two years of hard graft. The balance of youth and experience, tough and melancholic, vibrant and nostalgic – there's lots going on here. On stage Craig Grant (vox/keys/guitar) and Chris Gordon (vox/guitar) play dual frontman roles, supported, like a see-saw on an axis, by Dave McClean (sounds and beats). In the studio each member is autonomous, lyrics, beats, melodies and ideas come from everywhere. Clearly standing out from the crowd, Union Of Knives make music that is an amalgamation of steely hard electronics, soaring melodies and an unexpected tenderness.

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                                            Cover of Overdub EP by Unit E.

                                            Unit E

                                            Overdub EP

                                            Scorccio Music

                                            The "Overdub EP" was first conceived by DJ's Mark Summers & Ben Howard in Sudbury, Suffolk, in 1993. Hardcore and jungle were huge in the UK at that time, with Summers & Howard playing the genres out at their 'Paranoia' and 'The Ark' nights, at venues in Sudbury and Southend.

                                            Over the course of 2 weeks they met at Mark's home basement studio, digging through their vinyl crates to find all kinds of inspirational material for their tracks. Both DJ's had eclectic tastes in music, and so the basis for "The Overdub EP" was born; with some interesting touches added along the way. Mark had sampled an entire Korg M1 Piano inside a Chelmsford music store onto DAT, and later used that same piano to create the huge hook he played on "Takes 1". While Ben had sourced an obscure reggae break used as the basis for 'Skunk Massive'. Later when DJing at 'The Ark',with Ben Howard, the final master mixes of "The Overdub EP" were heard by DJ Rush Puppy - a nephew of one of the owners of Contagious Records, based in Upminster, Essex. The label had become prominent in 1992 for releasing some of the finest hardcore & jungle, and within a few days of hearing "The Overdub EP" they were all set to make it their 11th release.

                                            However, shortly after the first vinyl run had been pressed, Contagious Records went bankrupt; meaning the vinyl pressing plant could not be paid - which lead to the plant destroying the complete run, minus a very limited amount of copies that were sneaked out prior to the destruction of all the remaining pressings. This extremely rare EP has since become one of the most highly treasured vinyl items of the rave scene, currently fetching up to £350 per copy on discogs.

                                            Back on fresh vinyl, and alongside "Barmy (Acid Sex Mix)", as originally release - do not miss this historic record! 


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                                            Unitas

                                            Porch Life

                                            No Idea

                                            Eleven songs by the new Gainesville rock n' roll powerhouse! Featuring Todd and Bill from the now defunct Discount and Jason from Hot Water Music and completing the line up is Discount's tour manager Jason. Celebrates the ethics and spirit of the punk scene that raised them.

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                                            Cover of Fault Lines by United Fruit.

                                            United Fruit

                                            Fault Lines

                                            UFR001CD

                                            Debut album "Fault Lines" from the Glasgow four piece marks a step forward in their songwriting skills while maintaining a raw energy reminiscent of early ...And You Will Know Us By The Trail Of Dead and McClusky, balancing melody with mayhem and delivering a payload of pop sensibility within a sonic assault. Said onslaught will be unleashed across the UK in May and France in September.

                                            United Fruit formed in Glasgow in 2008 when the founding members quickly gelled through a mutual love of discordant yet catchy noise and the band have been taking the traditional format of guitars, bass and drums in a thunderous direction ever since. Influences and comparisons range from the edgy rawness of Shellac and Mudhoney to lesser known pioneers of heavier sounds such as Oxes, Daughters, These Arms Are Snakes, That Fucking Tank and Ligament.

                                            To date, United Fruit have also supported numerous contemporary greats on tour including Maps & Atlases, Die! Die! Die!, Future Of The Left, Monotonix and Desalvo.

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                                            Cover of United Sounds Of Joy by United Sounds Of Joy.

                                            United Sounds Of Joy

                                            United Sounds Of Joy

                                            Bronzerat

                                            United Sounds Of Joy are a new collaboration between Michael J Sheehy and former Dream City Film Club bandmate Alex Vald. Their self-titled debut album is released on Bronze Rat Records on CD / LP / digital download.

                                            “Don’t call it a reunion,” spits Michael J Sheehy, “we’re not even a band in the traditional fashion.” Dream City Film Club were signed to Beggars Banquet within a year of forming in 1995, releasing an album and recording two Peel sessions before Vald was unceremoniously kicked out. “Alex was dismissed because he was the only decent human being in the band,” says Sheehy. “We were intent on dismantling the band from the off. Everyone was pulling in different directions, each with his own very particular variety of personality disorder, drug abuse or mental illness. And if all that stuff hadn’t got us then I’m sure we would have buckled beneath the weight of our own very lofty pretensions.”

                                            Almost two decades removed from each other’s musical energies, Vald and Sheehy have reunited to craft some heartrending, mind-bending music. Coming on like Joe Meek and Goldfrapp entangled in some ancient machinery, the first-listen track ‘The Sun That Hides A Darker Star’ is a magnificent, shimmering sound. Amongst others, Lauren Laverne picked up on the track, with regular spins, describing it thusly; “if David Cronenberg directed a spaghetti western, we reckon it would feel a little like this.”

                                            Featuring contributions from Fiona Brice and Gemma Ray, the album is full of alluring, devious pop noir, the songs immersed in an eerie, crepuscular pool of fuzzy, warmly welcoming psychedelics. United Sounds Of Joy traverse a road to a new and rewarding gothic chanson.

                                            The beautiful cover is by Russian artist Aleksandra Laika.

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                                            Cover of The United States Of America by The United States Of America.

                                            The United States Of America

                                            The United States Of America

                                            Columbia

                                            One of the most avant-garde pop records of the late 60s, the United States' only album spans psyche-fuzz, ambient easy-pop, big band, experimental electronics and tape cut-ups - but as ever, the sum is greater than its parts. Taken as a whole, it's one of those classic 'trip' albums whose strangeness really takes you aback! NUTS.

                                            FORMAT INFORMATION

                                            Coloured LP Info: Pressed at R.T.I. on limited edition coloured vinyl.

                                            CD Info: Remastered with ten extra tracks.

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                                            Cover of The United States Of America by The United States Of America.

                                            The United States Of America

                                            The United States Of America

                                            Sundazed

                                            The United States of America, led by respected modern classical avant garde musician Joseph Byrd, cut a wide swath through the 1968 world of rock, just then comfortably settling into its backwoods dreams of country-rock to find the debut U.S.A. album howling like an infant terrible on its front doorstep. At the center of the U.S.A.'s fiercely experimental universe were the icy-cool vocals of the beautiful Dorothy Moskowitz, keeping this tumultuous sound from spinning out-of-control in every direction. One of the most avant-garde pop records of the late 60s, the U.S.A.'s only album spans psyche-fuzz, ambient easy-pop, big band, experimental electronics and tape cut-ups - but as ever, the sum is greater than its parts. Taken as a whole, it's one of those classic 'trip' albums whose strangeness really takes you aback! NUTS (bit in a great way!!) Almost predictably, the U.S.A. disbanded before it could record a second album, but its brilliant, self-titled effort was certainly one for the ages.

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                                            Cover of United States Of America: The Columbia Recordings Remastered And Expanded by United States Of America.

                                            United States Of America

                                            United States Of America: The Columbia Recordings Remastered And Expanded

                                            Esoteric

                                            Perhaps one of the finest and most original of bands to emerge in the USA during the Psychedelic era, the United States of America was formed in 1967 by the avant-garde musician Joseph Byrd (an associate of Yoko Ono who had studied with composer John Cage). After studying at UCLA in California, Byrd decided to form a band that would combine performance art, radical politics and experimental rock music. Recruiting former partner Dorothy Moskowitz (Vocals), Gordon Marron (Violin, Ring Modulator, Vocals), Rand Forbes (Bass) and Craig Woodson (Electric Drums), the band signed to Columbia records and recorded their self-titled album in December 1967. The sessions produced some of the most extraordinary music of the time, with pieces such as “The American Metaphysical Circus” combining tape looped effects, electronic sounds and rock to create a stunning opening to a fine album. Such a radical approach led to the album being hailed by critics upon release but receiving a poor commercial reception. Internal friction soon took hold and the United States of America had disbanded by the end of 1968.

                                            This Esoteric Recordings edition is newly remastered and includes ten bonus tracks recorded during the sessions for the band’s sole album and in May and July 1968. The reissue also features an illustrated booklet with new essay.

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                                            Cover of The Drop / Mornin' Subs by Unitz.

                                            Unitz

                                            The Drop / Mornin' Subs

                                            Dub Police

                                            The precocious London-based Unitz started DJing from the age of eight and producing from the age of 13! Now a little older he brings us this double header for the Dub Police label. "The Drop" is totally off the hinges! A bit of a teasing atmospheric bell tinkling intro makes way for the mother of all electroid dubstep drops that's had crowds up and down the land shouting for the rewind. Having received massive amounts of airplay both on Rinse FM and Kiss FM as well as the live circuit this is sure to fly off the shelves. "Mornin Blues" offers something a bit more deep and a bit more subtle to mess with your head. Rinsed by Caspa, Rusko, DJ Orien, The Others, Mary Anne Hobbes, Subscape, Oris Jay and N-Type.

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                                            Cover of Invisible Starlight by Universal Cave / The Beat Broker.

                                            Universal Cave / The Beat Broker

                                            Invisible Starlight

                                            Universal Cave Records

                                            "Invisible Starlight" is a ripping tune by an unknown midwestern funk outfit with a driving backbeat and soaring horns. It sounds like Ohio to us, but we can't be sure. What is certain however, is that these gents rocked the local bowling alleys, social clubs and loungespots wherever they went. Label bosses Universal Cave touch down on the A-side with their primo 45 edit, hitting us with a relentless groove of fat bass, bright horns and irrepressible rhythm guitar - so damned phonky y'all. Meanwhile on the flip, The Beat Broker rounds out the original with his signature style and an impeccable ear. The Kind Dub's sun drenched delay and reinforced drums ensure that Invisible Starlight will shine over any dancefloor!

                                            STAFF COMMENTS

                                            Patrick says: Here we have a hot 7" of the rawest, roughest disco funk, expertly retweeked for modern jocks. There's looped licks on the A-side from the UC crew, while Beat Broker gets dubby-in-the-disco over on the flip...

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                                            Cover of T-Shirt by Universal Colours Of House.

                                            Universal Colours Of House

                                            T-Shirt

                                              Featuring 25 classic house music records & their associated colours on one music themed paint chart including:-



                                              Laurent Garnier – Man With The Red Face / Moby – Go / Orbital – Chime / Raze – Break 4 Love / Urban Blues Project – Love Don’t Live

                                              Frankie Knuckles – Tears / 808 State – Pacific State / Kings of Tomorrow – Finally / River Ocean – Love & Happiness / New Order – Blue Monday

                                              Sterling Void – It’s Alright / Afro Medusa – Pasilda / Night Writers – Let The Music Use You / Daft Punk – Burnin’ / Hanna Hais – Rosa Nova

                                              Fish Go Deep – The Cure And The Cause / Crystal Waters – Gypsy Woman / Jungle Brothers – I’ll House You / Lil Louis – French Kiss

                                              Stardust – Music Sounds Better With You / Inner City – Pennies From Heaven / DJ Sneak – You Can’t Hide From Your Bud

                                              Funky Green Dogs From Outer Space – Reach For Me / Orange Lemon – Dreams Of Santa Anna / The Fog – Been A Long Time



                                              Stylish t-shirt is made of 100 percent premium cotton for complete comfort and softness.

                                              Regular fit, machine wash 30c, wash with similar colours. do not iron printed area.

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                                              Cover of Psyence Fiction by UNKLE.

                                              UNKLE

                                              Psyence Fiction

                                              UMC

                                              Debut 1998 album from UNKLE, back then a production duo of Mo' Wax head honcho James Lavelle and beat builder extraordinaire DJ Shadow. The soundscape of sampled breaks and ominous soundscapes is pretty similar to "Endtroducing", but with one big difference; "Psyence Fiction" has a line-up of guest vocalists. These included Badly Drawn Boy, Richard Ashcroft and Thom Yorke for the indie kids and Kool G Rap, Latyrx and Beastie's Mike D for the hip hop heads, all adding their own unique edge to the tracks they appear on. Dark, moody and brooding, the album is a 90s essential. After the recent Man From Mo'Wax generated a pre-Bros buzz, this one's been on everyone's wantlist.

                                              FORMAT INFORMATION

                                              2xLtd LP includes MP3 Download Code.

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                                              Cover of The Road: Part II / Lost Highway by UNKLE.

                                              UNKLE

                                              The Road: Part II / Lost Highway

                                              Songs For The Def

                                                Following on from the critically acclaimed The Road: Part I, James Lavelle's UNKLE returns with the follow up The Road: Part II / Lost Highway, split across two parts with 22 tracks, James described this journey as having "more of a mixtape aesthetic being the ultimate road trip"

                                                FORMAT INFORMATION

                                                3xColoured LP Info: Triple 180g neon vinyl package housed in a triple gatefold sleeve, with 16 page booklet. Limited to 1500 copies worldwide.

                                                3xDeluxe CD Info: Triple CD package containing the full album and a bonus disc of instrumentals, housed in a deluxe multi-panel package with 16 page booklet.

                                                2xCD Info: Double CD album housed in a gatefold sleeve with 16 page booklet.

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                                                Cover of Music Of Indonesia by Unknown Artist.

                                                Unknown Artist

                                                Music Of Indonesia

                                                Fantome Phonographique

                                                Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 13,000 islands including Java, the world's most populous island, and Bali, is as diverse as it is large. Having been a crucial stop on international trade routes since as early as the 7th century the influences on Indonesian musical traditions are deep and wide. Music Of Indonesia, recorded in 1950, is one of the earliest western documents of this rich tradition. Featuring sounds ranging from beautiful Balinese gamelan orchestras and operas to the raw power of katjapi (a variety of boat-lute), and more, this is one of the best glimpses into the Indonesian musical traditions the world will ever see. 

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                                                Cover of Wave Emoji / Fuoriorario by Unknown Artists.

                                                Unknown Artists

                                                Wave Emoji / Fuoriorario

                                                Art-Aud

                                                New series of limited, special and secret 7inches on Art-Aud. Various artists will contribute to this new chapter by remaining anonymous. 2 artists - 2 trax - all killer no filler.

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                                                Cover of The Double Sided EP by Unknown Artist.

                                                Unknown Artist

                                                The Double Sided EP

                                                Bring Back

                                                Three records in and Bring Back continue to take us back to the golden years of jungle. I wasn't old enough to go to clubs and my mum certainly wasn't letting me go to raves in '93, but I was lucky enough to taste this underground culture through CDs by people like Moving Shadow & 2 Bad Mice and there was plenty of features in the dance music rags of the time. It was exhilarating, exciting, totally new sounding and I loved the fact that it was a completely UK thing - for once we weren't copying dance music from America; it's one of the few dance music sub-cultures we can truly call our own.

                                                I don't recognize any of these three tracks, so they're most probably new constructions but using the timeless old methods. The vibe is moody, nodding to break hardcore whilst also adding the 'rude boi' element that'd be re-hashed a thousand times up to the present day. All the massiv!


                                                STAFF COMMENTS

                                                Sil says: Are we going back in time? If we are, this is your soundtrack. It is 1995 again! What a time to be raving. Junglists, come out of your graves and dance till... you die again! Three proper tunes for those who know!

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                                                Cover of Sharon & Vida by Unknown Mobile.

                                                Unknown Mobile

                                                Sharon & Vida

                                                Normals Welcome

                                                Montreal-based outdoor enthusiast Unknown Mobile offers up his debut on Normals Welcome with this 12" full of gentle hand drums and wavy melodies. Percussion guides the way through levels of airy pads and catchy synth lines on three solo cuts. His dancefloor sensibilities then interlock with Vancouver's amiable Big Zen for a spaced-out but dancefloor focused, collaborative track on the B side. If you've a penchant for the sublime and cerebral side of house music then this release is for you! Recommended.




                                                STAFF COMMENTS

                                                Matt says: Really strong collection of new house grooves. Rich with esoteric leanings and a rainforest friendly palette; for the dancers and dreamers alike!

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                                                Cover of IC-01 Hanoi by Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

                                                Unknown Mortal Orchestra

                                                IC-01 Hanoi

                                                Jagjaguwar

                                                While recording Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s latest release, Sex & Food, Ruban Nielson, his longtime collaborator Jacob Portrait and his brother Kody Nielson, found themselves in the Vietnamese city of Hanoi playing and recording with local musicians at Phu Sa Studios. The studio, normally used for traditional Vietnamese music, found the band jamming on sessions dubbed IC-01 Hanoi: exploring the outer edges of the band’s influences in Jazz, Fusion and the avant-garde. The musicians, along with Ruban and Kody’s father, a Jazz musician in his own right, helped lay down the unique textures heard throughout Hanoi. At its core Hanoi is a record of exploration, finding its closest antecedent in Miles Davis’ experimental On The Corner – itself a record full of nods toward avant-garde composers and Jazz outsiders alike. Hanoi finds Ruban amplifying and stretching out on lead guitar, with a blown-out and wandering fuzz tone that slinks throughout the sessions. Kody and Jacob match Ruban’s melodic diversions with aplomb, mining their talents to finding as easy a role in the fusion of funk as they do in the more ambient and abstract tangents on Hanoi.

                                                STAFF COMMENTS

                                                Barry says: Definitely not typical UMO this, but absolutely brimming with feeling and focused on an entirely different aspect of their sound. Though they are by no means avant-garde, the more meandering ruminations of their melodic forays are exacerbated on this release, breaking into the realms of jazzy ambience, eastern flow and hypnotic woodwind. A completely surprising but thoroughly enjoyable change. Lovely stuff.

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                                                Cover of II by Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

                                                Unknown Mortal Orchestra

                                                II

                                                Jagjaguwar

                                                Emerging from rampant hedonism and isolation is ‘II’, the new album from Unknown Mortal Orchestra. The musical vision of Portlander-via-New Zealand Ruban Nielson started as an anonymous home-recording project that fused psychedelia, soul, choppy percussion and funk.

                                                Unknown Mortal Orchestra came to life in basements and bedrooms after Nielson moved from his native New Zealand to Portland, Oregon with his family. Following the recruitment of bassist Jacob Portrait, new drummer Greg Rogove and a deal with Jagjaguwar, UMO toured the US with Grizzly Bear and Liars.

                                                ‘II’ builds on the breakbeat, junk shop charm the 32-year-old multi-instrumentalist and songwriter came to be renowned for following his self-titled 2011 debut, and signals the solidification of Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s position as an endlessly intriguing, brave psychedelic band. Unknown Mortal Orchestra is unafraid to dig deeper than the rest, to lock into their intoxicating, opiate groove and bring rock ‘n’ roll’s exaggerated myths to life.

                                                Written during a punishing, debauched touring schedule during which Nielson feared for his sanity and health, ‘II’ illustrates the emotional turmoil of life on the road, painting surrealist, cartoonish portraits of loneliness, love and despair.

                                                These conflicting themes are evident immediately; on the album’s sleeve is an unnerving image of Janet Farrar, the famous British witch Wiccan, author and teacher of witchcraft. The chilling refrain of opener ‘Into The Sun’ sees Nielson deliver the line “Isolation can put a gun in your hand,” softly, his words starkly intelligible above a warm, slow-burning melody that quickly brands itself onto your brain. His playful imagery (“I’m so lonely I’ve gotta eat my popcorn all alone”) mirrors the melody, before a solo that borders on psychotropic ends ‘II’s introduction.

                                                As it unfolds, ‘II’ does find Nielson reenergized. ‘One At A Time’ and ‘Faded In The Morning’ boast dizzying choruses and instrumentals - these crusty hunks could have been excavated from a lost 1960s treasure trove. ‘Monki’ unravels over seven minutes like the yarn from a stoner’s cardigan with an eye-frying pattern. ‘Dawn’ is a minute of disconcerting noise that stands out between the nooks and crannies of the choruses, guitar solos, groove-heavy bass and drums that were recorded live by newly-recruited drummer Greg Rogove and Kody Nielson in a move away from the electronic percussion employed on album one. ‘II’ closes with ‘Secret Xtians’, a tender observational puzzle that fizzes to a satisfied end.

                                                Pulling Pink Floyd, The Family Stone, The Beatles and the Soft Machine through his warped rock ‘n’ roll filter, Nielson has created a collection of expressive psychedelia. Unknown Mortal Orchestra was once Nielson’s closeted concern. With an album that uses his singular musical imagination and extraordinary talent to parade his emotions with unyielding honesty, it is now a fully realized band operating at the peak of its powers.

                                                ‘II’ is the follow up and refinement to 2011’s self-titled, critically adored debut (released by Fat Possum and True Panther Sounds).

                                                STAFF COMMENTS

                                                Andy says: UMO's 2011 debut LP was a one-man, bedroom curio layering sun-kissed psych-pop over chunky break beats. Expanded to a three piece, the live drummer brings an untutored looseness to the band’s sound which perfectly suits the laid-back, mellow vibe of these tunes. Ruban Neilson has made a beautiful night time record; hazy, blurred and luminous. And it still has that home-studio charm: lo-fi, fuzzy and whimsical, but the psych is now the Beatles, the blues a freaked-out Marc Bolan and there's a soulfulness that recalls early ‘70s Curtis Mayfield; a gorgeous blend. Curtis comparisons extend to Ruban's guitar playing too; seemingly meandering, carefree explorations reveal themselves to be intricately worked out, melodic lines that spill into each other, sometimes with a whiff of prog, sometimes even jazz. Mixed with the white-soul and garage, plus (inter)stellar melodies, you have one funky little nugget, a dazed and dreamy gem of an album.

                                                FORMAT INFORMATION

                                                LP includes MP3 Download Code.

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                                                Cover of Multi-Love by Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

                                                Unknown Mortal Orchestra

                                                Multi-Love

                                                Jagjaguwar

                                                On Multi-Love, Unknown Mortal Orchestra frontman and multi-instrumentalist Ruban Nielson reflects on relationships: airy, humid longing, loss, the geometry of desire that occurs when three people align. Where Nielson addressed the pain of being alone on II, Multi-Love takes on the complications of being together.

                                                Multi-Love adds dimensions to the band’s already kaleidoscopic approach, with Nielson exploring a newfound appreciation for synthesizers. The new songs channel with the spirit of psych innovators without ignoring the last 40 years of music, forming a flowing, cohesive whole that reflects restless creativity. Cosmic escapes and disco rhythms speak to developing new vocabulary, while Nielson’s vocals reach powerful new heights.

                                                “It felt good to be rebelling against the typical view of what an artists is today, a curator,” he says. “It’s more about being someone who makes things happen in concrete ways. Building old synthesizers and bringing them back to life, creating sounds that aren’t quite like anyone else’s. I think that’s much more subversive.”

                                                STAFF COMMENTS

                                                Andy says: Better bottom-end for the funky psych-groovers. Their last album was well loved here, looks like this is gonna top it!

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                                                Cover of Multi-Love - Deluxe Bundle Edition by Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

                                                Unknown Mortal Orchestra

                                                Multi-Love - Deluxe Bundle Edition

                                                Jagjaguwar

                                                  On Multi-Love, Unknown Mortal Orchestra frontman and multi-instrumentalist Ruban Nielson reflects on relationships: airy, humid longing, loss, the geometry of desire that occurs when three people align. Where Nielson addressed the pain of being alone on II, Multi-Love takes on the complications of being together.

                                                  Multi-Love adds dimensions to the band’s already kaleidoscopic approach, with Nielson exploring a newfound appreciation for synthesizers. The new songs channel with the spirit of psych innovators without ignoring the last 40 years of music, forming a flowing, cohesive whole that reflects restless creativity. Cosmic escapes and disco rhythms speak to developing new vocabulary, while Nielson’s vocals reach powerful new heights. 

                                                  “It felt good to be rebelling against the typical view of what an artists is today, a curator,” he says. “It’s more about being someone who makes things happen in concrete ways. Building old synthesizers and bringing them back to life, creating sounds that aren’t quite like anyone else’s. I think that’s much more subversive.”

                                                  FORMAT INFORMATION

                                                  2xLtd LP Info: This is the pink vinyl LP plus a 2 track exclusive 12” tracks, limited to 400 copies. 1 copy found!

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                                                  Cover of Sex & Food by Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

                                                  Unknown Mortal Orchestra

                                                  Sex & Food

                                                  Jagjaguwar

                                                  Where are we headed? What are we consuming, how is it affecting us, and why does everything feel so bad and weird sometimes? These are some of the questions posed on Ruban Nielson's fourth album as Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Sex & Food-a delightfully shapeshifting album that filters these real-deal serious themes through a vibrant sonic lens that spans battered drum-machine funk, doomy and thrashing rock, and pink-hued psychedelic disco. Recorded in a variety of locales from Seoul and Hanoi to Reykjavik, Mexico City, and Auckland, Sex & Food is a practical musical travelogue, with local musicians from the countries that Nielson and his band visited pitching in throughout.

                                                  FORMAT INFORMATION

                                                  LP Info: Standard black vinyl edition.

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                                                  Cover of Unknown Mortal Orchestra (Reissue) by Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

                                                  Unknown Mortal Orchestra

                                                  Unknown Mortal Orchestra (Reissue)

                                                  Fat Possum

                                                    Unknown Mortal Orchestra (U.M.O.) was conceived as a home recording project by Ruban Nielson after spending years playing and touring in an award-winning New Zealand punk band (on the legendary Flying Nun label). The band broke up after re-locating to Portland, OR and Ruban was ready to move away from his nomadic past. His recordings as U.M.O., mainly created for his personal amusement, have now taken on a life of their own. 

                                                    Ruban’s vision of creating “junkshop record collector pop” culminated in the creation of sprawling Beatles-esque guitar melodies over hammered out break-beats, spliced with an individual touch of gentle weirdness. The results deliver a surprisingly unified fusion of several influential elements - classic psychedelic rock, Krautrock rhythms and proto-hip hop beats – all interacting to create a cohesive album. 

                                                    Though the songs were never intended to be performed live, the last six months has seen the project gather pace behind a wave of critical acclaim. A sold-out limited edition EP lead Ruban to construct a live band consisting of skilled producer Jake Portrait on bass and a brilliant teenage drummer named Julien Ehrlich.

                                                    FORMAT INFORMATION

                                                    Coloured LP Info: Independent record store exclusive on Sky Blue vinyl. Limited to 1,500 units worldwide.

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                                                    Cover of EEE005 by Unknown.

                                                    Unknown

                                                    EEE005

                                                    EEE

                                                    The EEE lot have remained deliciously anonymous throughout 2018. Each record's taken a twist on an established dancefloor theme, whether its tweaking Saint Germain's "Rose Rouge", stringing out a well known Depeche Mode classic, or simply conjuring up some up-all-the-next day tech-house business for the Berlin crowds, the label have given us a constant stream of interesting (and illicit) weapons.

                                                    Well, number five sees the in-house production team construct a glassy, spectral, Villalobossy groove from staccato perc hits and wobbly frequencies. But what's that? - no surely I've just had too much ket, or can I hear Destiny's Child slowly coming into focus. Yes, 'Esme! Tarqs! I can - holy shit ...' *runs up to DJ booth* ... 'mate mate, is this a reworking of Destiny's Child - aawwWW MAYTE' - **Maximum fist bumps**. Yep.

                                                    Heavy support already from the likes of Raresh, East End Dubs, Barac and Priku.

                                                    As always - one-sided, 180g, hand-stamped gear!


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                                                    Cover of Proto Persuasions Volume 1 by Unknown.

                                                    Unknown

                                                    Proto Persuasions Volume 1

                                                    Rapscallion

                                                    Release no. 1 on Rapscallion brings 3 ridiculous broken reworks that are sure to raise an eyebrow or two.

                                                    We’re not being told who in particular is responsible for such goodness here but rest assured an accomplished veteran must be at the helm for sure...


                                                    Kicking things off is A Dis Yah Secret Friend - A Secret Friend of messrs Asher and Forge at the legendary Inspiration Information nights. A proto broken sound, at a point where Sir Paul was playing with the influences, instruments, melodies...definitely an important piece in fusion history. Kaidi's 'Dis Yah On I Love' provides the beat.


                                                    First up on the flip is Find a Way. Take two different versions of Stanley Cowells I’m Trying to Find a Way/ Trying to Find a Way (Both as deserving of an edit as the other), add a bus load of bottom end, beautifully layered percussion and a jazz mash up it is then! A Dingwall’s classic in its origin guise, and a future classic in it’s reworked (clouseau-esque) Rapscallion disguise.


                                                    Little Rudeboy closes things…Originally out in ’84, only 1 minute at 32 seconds in length and strewn with proto Brazilian boogie synthesizers boogie vibes, a rework/edit of this has been a long time coming. Paired with the Cosmosis broken classic and a surefire dance floor stormer is upon us…Clever stuff indeed !

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                                                    Cover of WLSLTD07 by Unknown.

                                                    Unknown

                                                    WLSLTD07

                                                    Wilson

                                                    7th edition of the Wilson Records Limited Series dedicated to Physical Record Stores.
                                                    Once again available in selected physical shops only.
                                                    All tracks are Written and Produced by Fabio Monesi B2 is written and Produced by Serge_L
                                                    Mastered at Reel Mastering Studio, London

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                                                    Cover of Guilty Of Love by Unloved.

                                                    Unloved

                                                    Guilty Of Love

                                                    Unloved

                                                    Spearheaded by David Holmes, in collaboration with film and TV composer Keefus Ciancia (True Detective), and songwriter-vocalist Jade Vincent (The Jade Vincent Experiment), Unloved are born of 60s girl groups, influenced by the great George 'Shadow' Morton, Jack Nitzsche, the soundtracks of Morricone, Nino Rota and the electronic sounds of Raymond Scott.

                                                    David met Keefus and Jade in LA in 2013, that same summer Keefus and Jade started a regular Tuesday night residency in Los Feliz called The Rotary Room. A collective of great musicians, including Woody Jackson (Red Dead Redemption), Gus Seyffert (Beck, The Black Keys), Jay Bellerose (T Bone Burnett) and Deantoni Parks (John Cale), forming informal ensembles curated by Jade, Keefus and David Piltch, with David Holmes invited to DJ between each band.

                                                    These common themes and sonic adventures led to the birth of Unloved, evoking the sounds and spirit of The Shangri La's, Bruno Nicolai, The Paris Sisters, The BBC Radiophonic Workshop and Phil Spector's wall of sound.

                                                    A band was then brought together at Woody Jackson's VOX Studios in LA, where the sound they had envisaged could actually be realised. Further Unloved contributors have included the legendary Jim Keltner (John Lennon, Ry Cooder), Wayne Kramer (MC5) and Tommy Morgan (The Beach Boys, Elvis).

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                                                    Cover of Heartbreak by Unloved.

                                                    Unloved

                                                    Heartbreak

                                                    Heavenly

                                                    “Sometimes it’s hard to say how you feel,” says Jade Vincent. “These songs are vulnerable stories for me to tell — they’re things I couldn’t say out loud. But I found that I could sing them. And then I closed my eyes when they would listen.”

                                                    Listening to Vincent’s songs were her partner, the producer/composer Keefus Ciancia, and the DJ and producer/composer David Holmes. Together, Vincent, Ciancia and Holmes make up Unloved, the musical project that evolved out of a late-night Hollywood bar in 2015, released a stunning debut album the following spring, and this year crafted the soundtrack to Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s acclaimed new series Killing Eve.

                                                    Now Unloved bring us their second full length record Heartbreak, a record emboldened by its predecessor to be more emotionally exposed, more musically, lyrically, and vocally audacious. In the words of Holmes: “We just get together, had a load of ideas, and Jade went off and wrote and wrote. She got deep and deep. She has an amazing story. They are amazing songs. She excelled herself.”

                                                    To enter the world of Unloved is to surrender oneself to a great musical immersion, one that seems to occupy the space somewhere between past and present, where thoughts soften and ideas mingle with twisted mancini-esque orchestrations, where music binds the dawn and dark.

                                                    STAFF COMMENTS

                                                    Barry says: Killing Eve, and it's tense atmospheres but dark humour flecked throughout wouldn't have been the same without Unloved's perfect soundtrack. Heartbreak may seem mildly chaotic at first, but brilliantly evocative orchestration and swooning, loungey vibes soon make you foret the chaos before flinging you once again into the fire. A beautifully produced and perfectly balanced filmic masterpiece. And who would have expected any less from this talented bunch?

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                                                    Cover of Death Surf A52 / White Dove by Unqualified Nurse Band.

                                                    Unqualified Nurse Band

                                                    Death Surf A52 / White Dove

                                                    Too Pure

                                                      Too Pure present the third instalment of the 2017 edition of the Singles Club with the awesome Unqualified Nurse band.

                                                      Derby’s Unqualified Nurse Band follow up 2016’s debut album ‘Debasement Tapes’ with the two headed beast that is ‘Death Surf A52’ / ‘White Dove’.

                                                      ‘Death Surf A52’ is a one note juggernaut that opens up into Dream Surf bliss, weaving its way through 50 shades of rock and roll with no intention of slowing down for anybody.

                                                      Significant other ‘White Dove’ staggers and struts and then before you know it you’re howling at the Harvest Moon.

                                                      Both songs recorded by Rich Collins at SNUG Recording CO, Derby and mastered at Abbey Road Studios by Alex Wharton. 

                                                      FORMAT INFORMATION

                                                      Ltd 7" Info: Clear vinyl 7”.

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                                                      Cover of Sterilize by Unsane.

                                                      Unsane

                                                      Sterilize

                                                      Southern Lord

                                                        Closing a five-year gap since the 2012 release of their Wreck LP through Alternative Tentacles, UNSANE makes a vicious return with the pummeling Sterilize, a record that recalls the most defining elements of the band's seminal Scattered, Smothered, And Covered and Occupational Hazard albums, surging with the band's unrelenting singular sound created by guitarist/vocalist Chris Spencer, bassist/vocalist Dave Curran, and drummer Vinnie Signorelli.

                                                        The band's gnarled blend of punk, metal, noise, and hardcore helping to define the "AmRep sound" alongside other forerunners of the style, Today Is The Day, The Jesus Lizard, Helmet, Tad, Cows, Halo Of Flies, Melvins, and others. Sterilize was produced by UNSANE, recorded by Dave Curran at Gatos Trail Studios in Yucca Valley, California, mixed by Andrew Schneider at Acre in New York City, and mastered by Carl Saff at Saff Mastering in Chicago.

                                                        Since 1988, UNSANE has pounded the planet with their caustic grooves and foundation-crumbling riffs, having released LPs through a wide range of labels including Matador/Atlantic, Amphetamine Reptile, Relapse, Ipecac, Alternative Tentacles, and others, not to mention a wide range of singles, splits, and live albums. Sterilize showcases UNSANE sounding as dense and damaging as ever, and sees them remaining as necessary as ever, nearly three decades since they began.

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                                                        Dwight Trible - Mothership

                                                        Dwight TribleMothership

                                                        Gratitude - We Are Here To Party

                                                        GratitudeWe Are Here To Party

                                                        Drugdealer - Raw Honey

                                                        DrugdealerRaw Honey

                                                        Judy Pollak - In Togetherness (feat. 33 1/3)

                                                        Judy PollakIn Togetherness (feat. 33 1/3)

                                                        Swimming Tapes - Morningside

                                                        Swimming TapesMorningside

                                                        Boy Harsher - Careful

                                                        Boy HarsherCareful

                                                        Various Artists - Buntús Rince (Explorations In Irish Jazz, Fusion & Folk 1969-81)

                                                        Various ArtistsBuntús Rince (Explorations In Irish Jazz, Fusion & Folk 1969-81)

                                                        Rupa - Disco Jazz - Reissue

                                                        RupaDisco Jazz - Reissue

                                                        Strand Of Oaks - Erasureland

                                                        Strand Of OaksErasureland

                                                        Doomsquad - Let Yourself Be Seen

                                                        DoomsquadLet Yourself Be Seen

                                                        🇫🇷🙌🏻 https://t.co/ok2447zeu9
                                                        Tue 19th - 11:09
                                                        RT @brownswood: Swindle - No More Normal / Brownswood from Piccadilly Records https://t.co/HrEKvHYRFW via @PiccadillyRecs
                                                        Mon 18th - 8:03
                                                        Sunday classics. https://t.co/KL1FeNcZ4F #vinyl #sunday #ClassicAlbum https://t.co/siSc8g6clD
                                                        Sun 17th - 1:43
                                                        Let the Saturday shopping commence. We’re open until 6pm. https://t.co/KL1FeNcZ4F https://t.co/UHSnkkRpSV
                                                        Sat 16th - 10:30
                                                        The new self titled album from @LadytronMusic is out today. It’s their first album in seven years on Ladytron Music… https://t.co/8kbjEmO9hd
                                                        Fri 15th - 4:37
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