All CDs-date

Double 180g pressing! Random Access Memories is easily one of the most anticipated releases in recent memory, and Daft Punk deliver in aces on all the hype. For their long awaited 4th studio album (the latest since 2005's Human After All), Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo call in legends of pop music history to help them create their most epic and ambitious work to date. From pioneering hit maker Nile Rodgers and synth icon Giorgio Moroder, to more recent super talents like Pharrell Williams, Panda Bear, and Chilly Gonzalez, Daft taps them all and take their sound to a whole new level with live instrumentation and complex arrangement - an evolution in electronic pop music. You probably already have "Get Lucky" with Pharrell and Nile on mental repeat, but checkout the funked out bump of "Doin' It Right" with Panda Bear," the arpeggio-laced disco odyssey that is "Giorgio By Moroder" featuring you know who, "Touch" and the throwback 80's vibe of "Fragments Of Time" with Todd Edwards. Smooth and sophisticated stuff throughout with the signature vocoder thrown in at just the right times. 13 tracks spread over two heavyweight LPs, housed in gatefold sleeve with booklet insert and download card. Recommended.

• music label: Columbia 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013

Over 15 years in the making, MBV is My Bloody Valentine's third album. No need for first person "I have a Loveless tattoo" or post-blog-house journalism piece. Just know that this is good! Or even great. And normally I get a little taken back by expensive vinyl pressings, but I feel like you're getting Kevin Shields' blood mixed into the 180g vinyl. The vinyl was recorded, mixed, and mastered in analogue, why mess it up with some compression? But if you're inclined or lazy, there's a CD version with its own packaging included. Recommended.

• music label: Pickpocket 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

The complete collection of Nas/Doom blends packed on two discs (both volumes 1 and 2). You know the deal here - razor sharp instrumentals from Metal Fingers Doom (mostly from his Special Herbs series) and acapellas from Olu Dara's son, blent to perfection by the villain himself. If you missed the vinyl bootlegs when they were around, this is probably you best bet to score. Features "If I Ruled The World," "Nastradoomus," "Last Words," "Project Windows," "One Love," "The Flyest Angels," "It Ain't Hard To Tell," "Hate Me Now" and "I Can," and plenty more. 24 tracks total.

Deadstock find! Here's what we wrote when it first came out in 2007: Money Studies kicks off its new "Lost Masters" reissue series by resurrecting this impossible to find mix from Diplo and fellow Philly record hoarder Tony Tripledouble. Originally self-released on CDR in an edition of less than 500 (plus a few handmade cassettes), AEIOU 2 is over an hour of the finest and rarest breaks drawn from Diplo & Tripledouble's extensive collections of psych, funk and obscure soundtracks. Some of the breaks in this mix have gone on to achieve classic status - still no tracklist to help you out, but now it comes in a full-color digipak designed by PH. And if you ever wanted to hear Diplo skratching, right here's the spot. Recommended.

• music label: Money Studies 2007

reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red 08/2007

Jazzman always seems to unearth those hidden gems that no one else can find! The UK label's latest, Soul Spectrum Records Vol. 1, turns its focus towards rare and obscure dancefloor soul from the late '70s and early '80s. Think deep boogie cuts and soulful disco. The label enlisted Ashley Beedle and Tom Noble to turn their well honed knives on two of the tracks that needed a little fine tuning, but other than that all the tracks a presented in uncut form. It's all compiled by the super dedicated DJ Fryer. Here's what he had to say about Soul Spectrum Records Vol. 1: The endless quest to discover lost interesting music from the past is something of a calling to many. Record collectors and DJs will go without food and spend all their wages to own a single piece of vinyl. Many will travel around the world to towns and cities you would never choose to visit. Happy spending nights in cheap hotels and days in musty old shops looking for that one lucky find, and it does happen, eventually, to all that make the effort. I make no claim to the discovery of any of these records contained here, but I nod my hat to those that did and will again in the future. I have let good as well as rare music be the narrative on this LP. There are some records here that are relatively affordable and I encourage you to go out and find them on original 45s, and play them. Records should be heard, not archived - keep the wonderful culture of playing 45s and 12s alive.CD version is 21 tracks in all. 2LP version is 16 tracks in all pressed on deluxe 180 gram double vinyl pressing with thick, glossy sleeve, includes bonus 7" reissue single: $8000 rated hyper-rarity, Fluorescent Smogg!

• music label: Jazzman 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 03/2013

Now this is how you properly celebrate a hip hop classic! When you first get your hands on this boxset you'll be more than impressed with the packaging. From the "Cherrywood Trophy Box" to the 24k Audiophile Gold Disc CD, Get On Down has gone the extra mile to pay homage to Ghostface Killah's startling debut. Plus the hardcover book, loaded with rare pics and informative liner notes from Chris Faraone is the icing on the cake. Here's what Cmish had to say when we first started carrying Ironman: It's Ironman! The debut album from Ghostface Killah released in 1996. If you don't know this one, here's a little Wu lesson for ya. First came the 36 Chambers, which then brought forth Raekwon's Only Built For Cuban Linx, which featured Ghostface, then came his solo album, Ironman. The whole album is produced by RZA and carries that uncut raw, infectious energy that made Ghost and Wu the Icons they are today. Standout cuts include "Winter Warz" ft. Cappadonna, U-God & Masta Killa, "Fish" ft. Raekwon & Cappadonna, the title track "Iron Maiden" ft. Raekwon & Cappadonna, "All That I Got Is You" ft. Mary J Blige. Funk it man, can't really pick out the best here, the whole damn thing is great. Super sought after, Recommended.

• music label: Get On Down 2013

reviewed by Joey Coco 03/2013

Celluloid Records captured the no-rules musical landscape of the early 80s on wax. Their releases cover everything from breakdance classics and early hip hop singles to experimental disco and no wave, and even some classic soul and funk and world music fusion. The label was formed in Paris during the late '70s by Jean Georgakarakos (often referred to by the shorter name Jean Karakos), who had spent the previous decade co-running French record shops and the spiritual jazz label BYG. Karakos had the good fortune of traveling to New York at the right time and connecting with Bill Laswell, who had himself landed fresh in the Big Apple from Michigan. From there Karakos began releasing whatever Laswell could produce, whether it was the avant-rock of Massacre or his post-punk production outfit, Material. Celluloid became involved with the burgeoning hip hop scene as well, releasing Time Zone's Afrika Bambaataa featuring "Wildstyle" and cuts from Grandmixer D.ST. Both Laswell and Karakos were instrumental in Herbie Hancock's "Rockit." Through the resulting publishing income Celluloid was able to dig deeper into the world of hip hop, getting 12" singles out for Fab 5 Freddy's groundbreaking French / English slo-mo rap "Change The Beat" and graf artist Futura 2000's cult "Escapades Of Futura 2000" backed by The Clash. By the mid-80s Laswell's work for the label grew increasingly sparse as he was pulled onto major projects for Yoko Ono, Mick Jagger, PiL and more. The label continued on its eclectic path with jazz recordings and African output through world pop stars like Kassav and Toure Kunda. Available as gatefold 2LP or 2CD digipack. Both formats feature rare photos from the Celluloid Records archive and extended interviews with label owner Jean Karakos, Bill Laswell, Afrika Bambaataa, John Lydon, Rusty Egan (Time Zone) and more. Recommended.

• music label: Strut 2013

reviewed by Joey Coco 03/2013

Elite disco collector and Million Dollar Disco kingpin Al Kent goes for another round of super rare soul & disco on BBE with the third Disco Love compilation. Just like the previous volumes (and his MDD releases) this album focuses on those overlooked and hard-to-come by underground disco gems that only someone with the deepest of crates (or a big bankroll) will have to offer - and that someone is Al Kent! His affection for classic disco sounds definitely shows on this set of extra soulful disco cuts that range from uplifting dancefloor jams, gritty back alley recordings, and funky burners. He's even gone ahead and re-edited many of them, leaving only the juiciest tidbits to set your soul on fire. Take a listen to the party energy of "I Want To Be With You" by Gregory Andre & Two Plus Three, "Disco Music" by Sil Austin, the super soul of the Mighty Gents' "Mighty Gents," the uptempo groove of "Disco Fever (Round 3)" by Rhond Durand, or the feel-good vibes of "Human" by Neo Experience - it's obvious wonder why he's Dimitri From Paris and Joey Negro's favorite disco DJ, and why dudes like Kon, Rahaan, and Theo Parrish are always after his edits. The double CD version also includes a bonus CD featuring all the tracks blended together in one seamless mix by Al himself! 8 unmixed tracks on 2LP and 15 unmixed tracks on the CD total for the deep disco aficionados.

• music label: BBE Disco 2013

reviewed by Joey Coco 02/2013

Take a vision quest with DJ Day on his masterpiece Land Of 1,000 Chances. Repping Palm Springs til the day he dies, Day took some serious chances trying to create his latest effort and it paid off for himself and the musical universe. Getting praise from Gilles Peterson himself, the album is a patchwork of sun baked styles taking what Dj Shadow did with Endtroducing and throwing it into a mixing bowl with Sungoddess era Ramsey Lewis, Mahavishnu Orchestra, and YNQ era Madlib. Seeing a broader spectrum of musicality in '1,000 Chances' than previous efforts, this is surely to be a classic in the modern funk, jazz world. This deluxe, limited pressing of Day’s Land Of 1000 Chances LP boasts a groundbreaking animal-friendly leather casebound LP (the first of its kind) with a foil-stamped gold back and removable Polaroid photograph. Recommended.

• music label: Piecelock 70 2013

reviewed by taco vato 2/2013

Soul Jazz digs into the Studio One vaults once again for another wicked compilation of reggae gems. Unlike previous compilations that focus on specific styles or eras, Studio One Ironsides offers the wide scope of the legendary reggae label. Here you get both classics AND rarities in a variety of styles ranging from roots, dub, early dancehall, ska, and rocksteady from the finest artists in the Studio One roster. Check the expertly curated selection fo tracks from Freddie McGregor, Prince Jazzbo, Lone Ranger, Marcia Griffiths, Alton Ellis, Johnny Osbourne, Cornel Campbell, Don Drummond, and many more. You really can't miss with this one! Oh and for those wondering about the title... "Studio One Ironsides refers back to a time in the 1960s and 1970s when Clement Dodd was at the height of his powers, releasing so much amazing music that Studio One had to invent new label names to trick radio DJs, wary of playing too much music from the legendary studio, into playing records. These creatively titled new label names included Ironsides, Money Disc, ND Records, BongoMan, Forward and more." Heavyweight double vinyl pressing in deluxe gatefold sleeve with extensive liner notes.

• music label: Soul Jazz 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 02/2013

Sophomore full length from LA producer/beatsmith and former TTL LA head Jason Chung aka Nosaj Thing. It's been a minute since his full length debut on Alpha Pup (2009's Drift), but Nosaj is finally back with an album full of atmosphere and emotion. Home finds Nosaj Thing evolving and exploring the subtleties in his sound. With carefully programmed nuances in the drums, to obscured samples and glitches, and lush synths, Chung crafts a much more personal and introspective world for your ears. Compared to the heavy glitch-beats that dominated Drift, Home is more mature and refined definitely deserving of repeat listens. Check tracks like the opener and title track "Home," "Glue," "Safe," and "Phase III" for a sample. There are also two vocal collaborations on the album, one with Kazu Makino ("Eclipse/Blue"), the other with Toro Y Moi ("Try") - both of which are obvious standouts. 11 tracks in all, recommended.

• music label: Innovative Leisure 2013

reviewed by TKB 02/2013

DJ Neil Armstrong, our first store manager back in the day, Jiggaman's former DJ, and Adidas brand ambassador is celebrating 10 years of his excellent mix "Sweeet", the mixtape that made us smile while everyone was bashing our brains out with over the top scratching and juggle routines. Though not the first of it's kind, Sweeet dropped the stigma of guilty pleasures and opened the floodgates for DJs to be themselves and really have fun on the decks. With the release of "Sweeet", Neil proceeded to continue the series with "Bittersweeet", a mixtape telling the story of the trials and tribulations of relationships. The series continued with "Smoove" and later "Sweeet pt. 2". Which bring us to today and to celebrate the 10 year anniversary for the classic we have the all encompassing CD boxset chronicling the "Sweeet" Sessions into a 6 disc jamboree.

• Sweeet
• BitterSweeet
• Smoove
• Sweeet pt 2
• Sweeet Pt 3
• Sugarcoated: Sweeet Remixes

reviewed by boohoo banton 2/2013

It's time once again to let go and decompress with Kompakt's annual ambient compilation. The long running Pop Ambient series never fails to rejuvenate worn and tired ears with a choice selection of contemporary drone, ambient, and experimental soundscapes of the beat-less variety. The 2013 edition features pieces from Michael Mayer, Mikkel Metail, Wolfgang Voigt, Leandro Fresco, Triola, and many others you probably haven't heard of. Mellow astral travel vibes for days, perfect for that introspective zone-out session. Keep it mellow. Comes in pic sleeve with included CD version. 10 tracks in all.

• music label: Kompakt 2013

reviewed by TKB 02/2013

Digger/DJ supreme Paul Nice has gone ahead and collected all the rare breaks from his previously vinyl-only Drum Library series and put them on CD for the first time! This double disc set is a treasure trove for producers and break fanatics with over 100 drum loops prime for sampling or cutting to! The tracks come from every source imaginable and are looped up for a minute or 2, depending on the track. Styles vary from straight ahead boom baps to disco breaks and much more. "The ultimate drum connoisseur's compilation." Limited edition, recommended.

• music label: Super Break Records 2009

reviewed by snackmaster 11/2011

Detroit classic. Totally original. A trip. Some of the usual comments when it comes to any Theo Parrish / Sound Signature release - but this is one is even more so. This is the one of the few full lengths from the influential Detroit label, and you can bet it's a burner front to back. When the album was originally released back in 2007, it sold out everywhere before it actually made it into stores (ed.note: we've never even got it), so here's another chance to snag it. You get all his angles here - from the soulful to offbeat programming to minimal (Chicago) techno, and everything with Theo's special touch. These are some of my favorites picks at a first listen - "They Say, Soul Control, Galactic Ancestors, The Rink," and "Synthetic Flemm" - and if these are touching your g-spot you'll probably love the whole thing. Lots of material to soak in over 2 CDs. Well recommended.

• music label: Sound Signature 2007

reviewed by Bogman

After coming out of nowhere, Ron Morelli has gone on to release a slew of celebrated records through his L.I.E.S. imprint. Through an ever growing collection of official releases, white labels and black labels, Morelli has curated a catalog of disparate artists that he's united under one roof. The label's roster is a curious mix of established and previously unknown artists that seem to exist at the intersection of house, techno, disco and noise music. There's the heavy synth work of Professor Genius and Steve Moore juxtaposed with the house music of Legowelt and Maxmillion Dunbar. The deep and hazy tape saturated techno of Terekke's "Pf Pf Pass" leading the way towards the Balearic VHS psychedelia of Torn Hawk. American Noise Vol. 1 gathers together select tracks from the limited edition 12"s that L.I.E.S. has released over the past 2 years on one CD and throws in a second CD of previously unreleased material as well. With the breadth of material that the label has released the compilation serves as a primer for the uninitiated. Artwork by Björn Copeland of Black Dice. Recommended.

• music label: Long Island Electrical Systems 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 01/2013

2010's Brothers by The Black Keys proved to be a pivotal moment in their career. After the Danger Mouse produced Attack & Release brought a little more attention the Keys they decided to continue working with producers in the mold of that record. 2009 found the two members, guitarist/vocalist Dan Auerbach and drummer Patrick Carney, experiencing a communication breakdown due to Carney's relationship with his wife. Carney eventually divorced from his wife and Carney and Auerbach realized the importance of their band. The duo reconvened in Alabama to work on Brothers, recording at the Muscle Shoals Odyssey Studio. The result was their most commercial and critical success to date. You're probably familiar with their Gary Glitter aping "Howlin' For You" and the Danger Mouse produced "Tighten Up" which went on to win the Grammy for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Along with that they also picked up the Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album. The record's packaging serves as an ode to one of their greatest influences, Howlin' Wolf. Includes CD of the album, along with a giant poster with a black and white photo of the band on one side, with lyrics and credits on the other.

• music label: Nonesuch 2010

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 01/2013

Deadstock find! Official copies of Shadow & Chemist's Product Placement, originally only available on the Product Placement tour back in 2001 and in small spurts on the net. For those unfamiliar, this is Shadow & Chemist's follow up to the legendary Brainfreeze mix - a non-stop melee of heavy funk breaks and old school hip-hop joints, cut and mixed by two of the best to ever catch wreck on the decks with a stack of 45s. Listen and learn how it should be done on 2 (yes, two!) continuous mixes of pure, unadulterated 7" badness. Each copy has a numbered hologram sticker on the back so you know it's legit. Limited stock.

• music label: One 29 Recordings

reviewed by Von Bee 02/2013

Fool's Gold Records keeps their ears to the streets (err internet) and release an epic rap compilation highlighting every up and comer you will be hearing about very soon. Label head, Nick Catchdubs, is no slacker when it comes to the rap world and he steadily knows how to pick em. Loosies celebrates Fool's Gold's 5 year anniversary with collaborations featuring Danny Brown, Action Bronson, Casey Veggies, BK newcomers Flatbush Zombies, Cool Kids Chuck Inglish + so much more. A-Trak's "Piss Test" remix gets murked by El-P. The Araabmuzik produced 'Molly Ringwald' features Danny Brown saying wild ish over a SCARY beat. Young Veggies brings the Cali breeze in 'Sauna'. Throughout Loosies the theme sticks to smoothed out Cali vibes and trippy Trap slappers. The compilation comes housed in a limited edition cigarette shaped USB drive with exclusive DJ mix from A-Trak + Catchdubs. Recommended.

• music label: Fool's Gold Records 2012

reviewed by rinse lombardi 1/2013

Another round of classic remixes from the legendary Larry Levan. Even if you never went to the Paradise Garage or are too young to have experienced it, his sets are the stuff of urban legend. But not only was Larry a legend behind the decks, he was also a pioneer on the remix. This CD collects 9 more of the best Levan remixes in full length, unedited form for your mixing/dancing pleasure including certified dance classics from Chaka Khan, Gwen Guthrie, Class Action, Instant Funk, Lace, NYC Peech Boys, Strikers and more. Essential material right here with awesome artwork from Keith Haring! Recommended.

• music label: Garage Records 2011

reviewed by snackmaster 02/2013

What more can be said about Larry Levan that hasn't been said already? Even if you never went to the Paradise Garage or are too young to have experienced it, his sets are the stuff of urban legend. But not only was Larry a legend behind the decks, he was also a pioneer on the remix. This CD collects 9 of the best Levan remixes in full length, unedited form for your mixing/dancing pleasure including certified dance classics from Central Line, Gwen Guthrie, David Joseph, Loose Joints, Imagination, Taana Garnder, Celestial Choir, and more. Absolutely essential material right here with awesome artwork from Keith Haring! Recommended.

• music label: Garage Records 2011

reviewed by snackmaster 1/2013

CD comp number 5 from Muzic Box Classics! Heads should know the deal, but here's a primer for those who don't know: Ron Hardy is a hugely influential DJ, up there with Levan and Mancuso, who helped usher in the era of House music at the Muzic Box in Chicago (where he was resident from '82-'86) and the current re-edit craze. His sets are the stuff of legend as he would mix everything from disco, soul, new wave, EBM, and proto-house music together in a way that would make everybody lose it on the floor - often times playing his own edits off a Reel-To-Reel player! Here you get some of his potent edits along with classic dancefloor killers and rarites rocked at the Box from Tyree, Jamie Principle, Quando Quango, Armando, plus a bunch of other tracks we can't put our finger on. Recommended.

• Muzic Box Classics 2012

reviewed by snackmaster 1/2013

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s jazz did not enjoy widespread popularity in Spain. There was a scarcity of releases dedicated to the genre due in large part to the desires of Spanish record labels. However, the remain a handful of jazz releases from this period that deserve to be heard by a wider audience. The musicians involved helped pave the way for jazz in Spain and the recordings can hold their own in the world of jazz. Fetén brings together a selection of recordings made in Spain between 1961 and 1974. The selected tracks were original released on vinyl that has become impossible to find. These are unique recordings spanning modal jazz, hard bop and even avant-garde jazz by Spanish musicians such as Mantequilla, Juan Carlos Calderón, Ricard Roda and Vlady Bas, as well as by international jazzmen like Dusko Goykovich, Lou Bennett and Tino Contreras. The compilation is a result of years of searches in market stalls and record fairs, trades with other collectors, phone calls to second-hand dealers, countless hours of online research, and a lot of dusty fingers. Aside from being a collection of rare and hard to find tracks, Fetén provides a window into a lost moment in the history of jazz in Spain.

• music label: Vampisoul 2012

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 01/2013

Kingston Sounds comes through with a wicked selection of dancehall cuts to mash up the place! Listen Up Dancehall Originals compiles the original dancehall sound of Jamaica from the early 80's (pre-digital) from reggae icons like Johnny Clarke, Don Carlos, Michael Palmer, Cornell Campbell, Dennis Brown, Linval Thompson, and many others. This is the O.G. sound that grew out of the dances in Jamaica and would eventually set the foundation for the dancehall styles to come. 14 tracks in all with 2 bonus cuts on the CD version.

• music label: Kingston Sounds 2012

reviewed by Natty Prof 01/2013

LAB EXCLUSIVO! Limited edition CD and book pack from Miss Lily's (aka NYC's unofficial Jamaican Embassy) only available in this configuration from TTL! For the unfamiliar, Miss Lily's is a fashionable restaurant, variety shop, radio station, and juice bar located in downtown Manhattan. The place is basically a Jamaican hot spot, attracting the likes of reggae and dancehall icons like Jimmy Cliff, Sean Paul, Beanie Man, Mr. Vegas, and more recently Snoop Lion(!), who can be found on any given night for impromptu visits, performances, and radio shows. This CD + Book bundle contains the Miss Lily's CD - a compilation of reggae and dancehall favorites that always "mash up the place" at the venue (many of which performed by Miss Lily's regulars) complete with a mega-mix download card for a free download of a mixed version of the album by Max Glazer of Federation Sound fame, as well as two Miss Lily's published books. The first book in the set Jamaican Dancehall Signs From The Collection of Maxine Walters showcases Jamaican Dancehall Signs from the collection of Maxine Walters. These vibrant, hand painted signs are an often overlooked (and technically illegal) part of Jamaican music culture, usually placed in the middle of the night to promote bass-fueled bashment parties. Walter's has obsessively collected these cultural gems for the past 12 years and shows them off in this 50 page, 7.25" x 7.25" book. Middles, Centers, Spiders, & Inserts: 45 Adapters from the Collection of Jules Gayton is the second book in the set and catalogs the seminal Downtown NYC Disc Jockey's personal amassment of these endangered (and once commonplace) artifacts that came to prominence during the heyday of the jukebox and the 45 rpm single. The 50 page book showcases some of Gayton's most-prized adapters and a personal essay written by the DJ, detailing the his love affair with vinyl and, more specifically, 7 inch 45rpm singles. Recommended.

INCLUDES

• Miss Lily's presents Family Style CD
• Jamaican Dancehall Signs From The Collection of Maxine Walters Book
• Middles, Centers, Spiders, & Inserts: 45 Adapters from the Collection of Jules Gayton Book

Now this is how you properly celebrate a hip hop classic! When you first get your hands on this boxset you'll be more than impressed with the packaging. From the "Cherrywood Trophy Box" to the 24k Audiophile Gold Disc CD, Get On Down has gone the extra mile to pay homage to Nas' startling debut. Plus the hardcover book, loaded with rare pics and informative liner notes from Nas himself, Jon Shecter of the Source, DJ Premier, MC Serch, Large Pro, Q-Tip, etc. is the icing on the cake. Here's what the mgmnt had to say when we first started carrying Illmatic: What can I say about this album? Easily in the top 10 of all time, there is no way to pick favorites on this album. Not even one okay track on here. Everything is amazing. When this came out in 94, it was one of the most anticipated albums of all time, taking about two years to finally release. And it dropped with ten songs, no filler, blowing the lid off everybody. Nas wrote the deepest street poetry, touched inner thoughts and demons and still shot his way out his momma's stomach, went to hell for snuffin Jesus. Got the best producers in New York (Pete Rock, Large Professor, Q-Tip, Trackmasters, Premier) to turn in some of their best work ever for one of the best albums ever. One of the few albums I can just keep flipping over and over and over to this day. Little known fact: the trumpet solo on the end of "Life's a Bitch" is performed by Nas' father, the accomplished jazz man Olu Dara. Recommended.

• 24k Audiophile Gold Disc CD with re-mastered audio
• housed in a "Cherrywood Trophy Box" with gold plaque
• 48 page full-color, hard cover book including extended artwork, full album lyrics and liner notes from The Source founder Jon Shecter
• limited to 2000 copies
• vinyl version also available

• music label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 02/2013

Studio album debut from DJ Nu-Mark on a limited edition USB drive! Ya'll should be familiar with Nu-Mark from his work with Jurassic 5 and Blendcrafters, but Broken Sunlight is his first solo full length under the DJ Nu-Mark name. The album itself is a testament to his many years in the game - a collection of his Broken Sunlight singles along with collaborations with everyone from Large Professor, Aloe Blacc, Quantic, Charles Bradley, Bumpy Knuckles, Tiron, J Live, and many more. Check "Don't Play Around On Me," "Our Generation," "Times Is Rough," and "Tropicalifornia" for a taste. The USB drive itself is appropriately shaped like a DJ cartridge, and comes pre-loaded with the full album along with instrumentals, clean versions, acapellas, bonus beats, studio and tour photos, plus a download link to Nu-Conduit, a 60 minute behind the scenes docummentary about the making of Broken Sunlight. Limited Edition

• music label: Hot Plate 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 12/2012

Incredible, never thought I'd see a volume two, but Soulscape just had someone hand-deliver these from Seoul! The first volume of this Korean diggers' series sold out very quickly, and with good reason, you're not going to find this stuff anywhere else (still have my Peter Luger porterhouse bet open). Soulscape gives us a little background: "The Postwar Korean Peninsula was a melting pot where different cultures from the east and west collide. The music business grew significantly as clubs were founded around the US military bases and musicians playing for the clubs had interpreted and localized rock, jazz, soul, and boogaloo in various styles. However, such unique music was suppressed and vanished for the political interests of the military regime in the mid 70s an it still remains discontinued and underestimated." DEEP! Essential for Koreans and record heads now in deluxe reissue with gatefold jacket. 40 tracks mixed, one hour, recommended.

• music label: Studio 360

reviewed by the mgmnt 03/2010

Deluxe reissue of Soulscape's first Sound Of Seoul mix, now in gatefold jacket! Internet celeb Mr. Kim introduced me to this mix by Seoul's DJ Soulscape. You should pick this up on principle alone; I'd bet a Luger porterhouse that you'll won't find a mix of Korean rock, soul, disco, and boogaloo anywhere else (of this caliber too). From Korean heritage myself, this definitely reveals a side of motherland that I've never experienced. Thanks, Soulscape. Over one hour, untracked. Recommended.

• music label: Studio 360 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 02/2010

Essential compilation for the boogie lovers. Joey Negro & Sean P really need no introduction and are the guys behind some of the finest disco comps we've seen (namely Disco Not Disco, Soul of Disco, etc.). For Destination Boogie the duo focus on rare boogie gems from the early 80's. No easy finds here, this is the cream of the crop - only the choicest boogie cuts that even veteran collectors would sweat. But the tracks aren't just selected for rarities sake - you can bet these will move the floor for sure! Includes 2 CDs worth of unmixed jams from Mid Air, C Brand, Colours, Radiance, Electric Smoke, Brenda Watts, Masurrati, Vera Brown, and many more. 20 fulllength boogie burners spread over 2 CDs. Well recommended.

• music label: Z Records 2006

reviewed by snackmaster 12/2012

Essential purchase for the deep disco and boogie heads. If you remember the first volume of Under The Influence compiled by DJ Red Greg, then I don't even have to sell you on this one 'cause you already know how killer these comps are! For volume 2, they've enlisted Paul Phillips, another elite level crate digger, to put together another batch of rare disco and boogie gems. Phillips hooks it up here in a major way - 24 tracks to be exact, of choice disco 12"s in their full length original form. It doesn't get much better than this! Check tracks from Ron Richardson, Midnight Energy, Special Touch, Pike, State Department, NY Disco Orchestra, Krisp, The Underground Band, and many, many others. Even if you could find the original 12"s, gathering all these tracks would cost a small fortune, so get with the double CD comp. Recommended.

• music label: Z Records 2012

reviewed by snackmaster 12/2012

Andy Stott's latest for label Modern Love continues in the dark, Dub Techno format we have come to know from his previous two efforts. The difference with his newest offering is the featured vocal performance from his childhood piano teacher. The unusual request seemed to be a perfect match, with her breathy, angelic vocals adding another layer that contrasts the heavy oceanic bass with a lighter mood. The album is not chipper in any sense, but it is his most accessible album to date. Luxury Problems is the perfect soundtrack for the oncoming Winter months. Beautiful, yet menacingly harsh at the same time. Recommended.

Must have compilation of choice edits from the mighty Heavy Disco crew. For those unfamiliar, Heavy Disco is the alias for veteran UK DJ/Producer extraordinaire Ashley Beedle (of Black Science Orchestra/X-Press 2 fame) and DJ Dave Jarvis. Together the duo has been killing it on the edit tip for some time now, reconstructing everything from big time rock anthems, to soul classics, 80's hits, and overlooked disco. Their debut CD The Trials & Tribulations of Heavy Disco compiles many of their past 12"s (see the Modern Artifacts label) and includes a few new surprises as well Basically if you were sleepin' on Heavy Disco, this comp is a god send! Every edit on here is a monster, with entries from Prince, Kate Bush, Stevie Wonder, and many more. Highly Recommended.

• music label: Heavy Disco 2012

reviewed by TKB 11/2012

Reggae Golden Jubilee celebrates the first 50 years of Jamaica's independence through its vast musical history. It takes the listener on a journey through Ska and Rocksteady to roots and dancehall in a roughly chronological order. VP Records enlisted former Jamaican Prime Minister Edward Seaga to curate this 4 CD, 100 song compilation. The formidable music fan and historian of Jamaican music played a key role in the development of the Jamaican music industry. Along with making the track selections Seaga has contributed liner notes and track by track notations. Reggae Golden Jubilee provides the perfect snapshot for any fan of Jamaican music looking to expand their horizons. All of the heavy hitters are well represented here from the 1960s till now. Includes 4 CDs in a 64 page booklet packed with iconic photographs and imagery from Jamaica's first fifty years. Recommended.

click here for full tracklisting

• music label: VP Records 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 11/2012

Companion mix for the Greensleeves:The First 100 Covers book from DJ al Fingers and Stussy Deluxe. This 56 track mix showcases tunes from the legendary UK reggae label's first decade (!977 - 1987) as well as a few exclusive refixes from Al Fingers utilizing newer Greensleeves acapellas over classic dancehall riddims. Features tracks from Johnny Osbourne, Barrington Levy, Yellowman, Eek-A-Mouse, Wayne Jarrett, Triston Palma, Errol Scrorcher, Hugh Mundell, Don Carlos, Nicodemus, John Holt, and many more. RECOMMENDED.

reviewed by snackmaster

The alway on-point Soul Jazz label continues to dig and collect the best in overlooked and under-appreciated genres with this collection of Country (yes, country) gems from pioneering female artists. The Country Soul Sisters compilation charts the rise of female singers within the genre from the years of 1952 to 1978. Everyone know Dolly Parton and probably Nancy Sinatra too, but have you heard of Loretta Lynn, Tanya Tucker, Bobbie Gentry and Tammy Wynette? Unless you are a country fan, probably not. This comp focuses on songs that are far removed from the traditional conservative image of Country music and actually deal with serious and pressing topics such as female empowerment, bigotry, workplace sexual harassment, and abortion. Not exactly songs about dogs and old pick up trucks that's for sure! From the label: "Forget outlaw country or alt. country, male dominance of country music meant that female country singers were the original outsiders – simply by nature of being themselves. What is so equally fascinating is how these artists managed to negotiate a space for themselves that was acceptable to the general male conservative hierarchies whilst at the same time remaining true to themselves as both artists and women for their largely female public." Double CD version comes with 68 page full color book filled with extensive liner notes profiling the rise of female artists in country with artist profiles, interviews and archive photography. Limited edition double LP version comes in beautiful gatefold sleeve with full sleeve notes on thick, loud import vinyl.

• music label: Soul Jazz 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 10/2012

Unreleased DJ Shadow gems unearthed! Following 2008's 4-Track Era compilation, Hidden Transmissions From The MPC Era chronicles Shadow's unheard production from '92 to '96. The time period found Josh Davis with bigger, badder beat creation tools (good bye SP-1200, hello MPC!) to develop the sound he is most known for on classic albums like Endtroducing, There is no doubt that Shadow's skill on the MPC is at grand master level, and this compilation is more proof. You can hear the way his skill has progressed from the way he chops those dusty drums for neck snapping breaks to arranging complex sampled-based arrangements like no other. Check the heavy head nod of "Intensely Hitting" and "Mellow But Chunky," the smooth and jazzy "Not-So-Quiet Storm," "Falling Up," and "Swimming Upstream" (later used on <i>Private Press</i>), the tough drum workout "Vee In Detroit" and "Total Breakdown," the psyched out "Mystical With Solo," and the swift breaks of "Quickstep," for a taste. Essential release for any Shadow fan, Recommended.

• music label: Reconstruction Productions 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 10/2012

Imagine you knew somebody who was one of the world's heaviest disco and soul collectors. A guy who got props from people like Dimitri from Paris, Kenny Dope, Joey Negro and Danny Krivit. Then imagine this guy made you a couple CDs of his dopest and rarest grooves, records so scarce that they have yet to circulate on the internet, records that trade in Shibuya back rooms for hundreds of dollars and a kilo of flesh. Just as a favor, your homeboy selected only his most pristine pieces of vinyl, and painstakingly transferred them to digital with an audiophile's ear. That, in essence, is what you have here, in this distillation of the collector's fave Disco Strut series. These songs are not for everybody, though the grooves are as catchy as the best R&B chart hits. Many will not understand the appeal of electronic Italian boogie like Asso's "Don't Stop" or Selection's "Got To Be Real." Many people will prefer things they've heard before, or cringe at an exquisitely funked up version of "Summertime." But for the connoisseur or the curious, this collection, a labor of love without a doubt, represents damn near the pinnacle of soulful disco delights. From Hipnotic's "Are You Lonely" a record that recently sold in England for the bargain price of $450, to the virtually unknown Bay area disco-reggae of Onyx, to the maddeningly difficult 12-inch versions of minor chart hits"I Love You More" and "Sound of Music(" these 2 CDs feature a clean skim of disco cream. Some may prefer MacDonald's, but if you've grown weary of the greasy kids stuff, let Disco Strut's master chef give you the gourmet treatment. Liner notes by some guy from Wax Poetics.

• music label: Disco Strut 2005

reviewed by monk

Richard D. James has a penchant for taking an experimental approach to dance music. With his AFX identity he was able bring a bit of his trademark humor to the forefront. Analogue Bubblebath 4 grapples together 4 banging techno tracks with the centerpiece being "Cuckoo." It tracks like a video game soundtrack let loose. Series of staccato melodies play against each other as the cuckoos let loose in the jungle. The first and third of the untitled tracks feature punishing techno rhythms while samples of deranged animal sounds play out. It's a harried affair that will leave the Aphex Twin fanatics begging for more.

• Music Label: Rephlex 1994/2011

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 10/2012

There seems to be more than one side to Aphex Twin's back catalog. There's his early ambient work, his more drum n bass inspired material and a host of other styles that he has explored. With his Caustic Window alias he churned out 4 EPs in the early 90s that have inspired a love hate relationship amongst even his most ardent fans. Not that he necessarily sticks to one particular style under the Caustic Window moniker. Caustic Window Compilation collects the majority of the tracks from the 4 EPs and arranges them in a way that makes them easy to consume. While you generally might want to call what's here acid house, the tunes stretch the boundaries of that definition about as far as they can go. What you have here ranges from the quirky analog noodling of "Pigeon Street" to the proto-gabber-porn of "Fantasia." There is plenty to chew on between those two extremes though and that is what makes the Caustic Window Compilation so compelling.

• Music Label: Rephlex 1998/2011

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 10/2012

Debut volume for one of the best (and slept-on) classics mix series around. For those that don't know, Jason Lev is responsible for the excellent Truth Is Light edit series we used to carry back in '09, but waaay before that he was already putting in work for the disco heads with these Sound Of Gold mixes. For volume 1 (originally recorded back in 2001) Lev is basically taking you to disco school here with a stellar selection of deep classics and under-the-radar joints to make the party go off. Features cuts from Brainstorm, Instant Funk, Cerrone, Jimmy Bo Horne, Jakki, One Way, Nancy Martin, Suzy Q, Peter Brown, and many others. You must learn.

• music label: Sound Of Gold 2001

reviewed by TKB 10/2012

All of Weldon Irvine's output on RCA in one super affordable box set. The RCA era (from 1974 to 1976) is arguably Irvine's best and here you get all three albums - Cosmic Vortex from '74, Spirit Man from '75, and Sinbad from '76. These albums are essential listening for anyone even remotely interested in the realms of spiritual jazz, and diggers might also recognize a sample source or two in there (i.e. "Award Tour" by ATCQ) in the process. Keep an open mind and let the music take you off into space. 24 tracks in all spread over 3 discs, each in their own digipak, all housed in a deluxe box. Recommended.

• music label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by TKB 10/2012

An absolutely stunning anthology of beat-heavy soul jams and love ballads from Now-Again, the same folks that brought you that awesome Soul Cal comp! Loving On The Flipside contains some of the most incredible baby-making jams this here reviewer has ever heard. The songs contained here, mostly overlooked funk 45 B-sides released between the years of 1966 and 1977, are a potent combination of sweet soul and deep funk - a style of music the label lovingly refers to as "sweet funk." It is the dichotomy of heavy funk rhythms with sweet, soulful harmonies that are at the root of the sweet funk genre, a combo heard through and through on every selection featured on the release. Obviously it is no easy task to find jams of this caliber, so Now-Again actually reached out to New York's Truth & Soul to help find more sweet funk swooners and beat-heavy ballads to round out the release. Thanks to their help, Loving On The Flipside features 21 sweet funk gems from the likes of the Darling Dears, The Equatics, Black Velvet, Black Exotics, Eunice Collins, Symphonic Four, Rhythm Machine, and many others. The double LP version is presented in deluxe gatefold packaging (similar to the Soul Cal comp) with 80 page, full color, perfect-bound book featuring extensive liner notes highlighting the artists featured on the compilation. CD version includes the book as well. Highly recommended.

• music label: Now-Again 2012

reviewed by TKB 10/2012

Fourth installment of the popular Ron Hardy Edits series on CD! Heads should know the deal, but here's a primer for those who don't know: Ron Hardy is a hugely influential DJ, up there with Levan and Mancuso, who helped usher in the era of House music at the Muzic Box in Chicago (where he was resident from '82-'86) and the current re-edit craze. His sets are the stuff of legend as he would mix everything from disco, soul, new wave, EBM, and proto-house music together in a way that would make everybody lose it on the floor - often times playing his own edits off a Reel-To-Reel player! Many consider those edits as secret weapons for the dance floor and recently a few have been popping up on bootleg 12"s, but this is the first time a whole bunch of them have been compiled on CD. For volume 4 you are treated to a selection of prime cuts and special edits of classics from Mass Production ("Welcome To Our World" as sampled by Moodymann), Jamie Principle ("Baby Wants To Ride"), Frankie Goes To Hollywood ("Relax"), Jack Frost ("Dap Me"), Rolling Stones ("Undercover Of the Night"), Skatt Brothers ("Walk The Night"), and Sylvester ("I Need You") and more. Recommended.

• Music Label: Muzic Box Classics 2012

reviewed by snackmaster 09/2012

The highly anticipated sophomore album from The xx is here! Coexist follows up their critically-acclaimed 2009 debut, and finds the London-based trio refining their sound, with Jamie xx handling all production and Romy-Madley Croft and Oliver Sim on guitar and vocal duties. Though they've blown up considerably since their debut (especially Jamie as a solo electronic artist), the formula here remains the same - powerful and touching songs about love and loneliness, with delicate guitar work and minimalist arrangements. Jamie's solo work can be heard influencing tracks like "Chained,"" "Sunset," and "Swept Away" that feature a more prominent and thumping rhythm track, but for the most part it's a very restrained piece of work that tugs at the heartstrings. Vinyl version comes packaged in die-cut sleeve with iridescent inner sleeve, CD version with an iridescent booklet. Recommended.

• music label: Young Turks 2012

reviewed by suicide bangs 09/2012

Prepare to have your mind officially blown. The much anticipated full length debut from the muthaf'n Gaslamp Killer has landed and it totally exceeds all expectations. Over the years, GLK has grown quite a cult following as a respected DJ and producer. From co-founding the legendary Low End Theory night (where he is still a resident DJ) to touring the globe, his high-energy sets have become the stuff of legend. Now on Breakthrough, Gaslamp Killer takes his heavy, psych-influenced sound to the next level with a fully realized album of devastating beats and bugged-out psychedelia on Flylo's Brainfeeder imprint. Expect an intense trip through dark and ominous sonic territory with some of the heaviest live drum and production work from GLK himself, as well as guest appearances from kindred spirits Gonjasufi, Adrian Younge, Dimlite, Daedelus, Samiyam, Computer Jay, and more. The whole album should be digested in its entirety for the full effect, but check out "Holy Mt. Washington," "Dead Vets," "Flange Face," "Apparitions," "7 Years Of Bad Luck" and "Keep It Simple Stupid" for a taste of the madness. Comes on thick 180g vinyl with free download card or on CD with artwork from Kilian Eng. Highly Recommended!

• music label: Brainfeeder 2012

reviewed by Fadermod 09/2012

The highly-anticipated new album from LA-based producer Flying Lotus is here! Since emerging on the scene with 1983 in 2006, then breaking ground on Warp Records with Los Angeles in 2008, Steven Ellison (aka Flying Lotus) has become a beacon for the new school beats movement. His influential Brainfeeder label is constantly pushing boundaries with eclectic, forward-thinking releases that shape and mold the scene, while his own work continues to evolve and grow exponentially. Now with Until The Quiet Comes, his fourth full length album, Flying Lotus delivers his most realized and coherent piece to date. Whereas Cosmogramma took us to the farthest reaches of the galaxy and beyond, Until The Quiet Comes brings us back to earth with a very personal and introspective sound rooted in cosmic jazz as much as it is in beats. From the opening notes of "All In," you can already tell you are in for something special. Lush arrangements and free flowing melodies seem to come natural for Flylo with nothing ever seeming rushed or forced ("Until The Colours Come, "Only If You Wanna"). Then come the heavy bump of the beats that work as a perfect counter balance to the mystic jazz vibes ("Until The Quiet Comes," "Getting There," "The Nightcaller," "Tiny Tortures"). Of course Flying Lotus also gets a little help from his friends to fully realize this cosmic vision. Check the A-list guest appearances from Erykah Badu on "See Thru To U," Thom Yorke on "Electric Candyman," as well as Thundercat on "DMT Song," and Laura Darlington on "Phantasm." 18 tracks in all housed in brilliant cover art with free download card included. Highly Recommended.

• music label: Warp 2012

reviewed by TKB 10/2012

For the past 2 years MF DOOM has been living in exile in London. After touring Europe in 2010 he ran into visa issues and was extradited to the place of his birth. This has probably put a damper on the completion of releases like Madvillainy 2 and kept DOOM away from family and friends. Fortunately the seasoned MC is resilient and has proven to be adaptable no matter what life throws at him. With Key To The Kuffs he's picked up the pieces, engaged his ever present sense of humor and given us a snapshot of the cult figure in exile. And with the collaboration of producer Jneiro Jarel he taps into some as yet unseen facets of the Metal Face Villain. The album may be absent from an overarching theme that we've seen on previous releases, but the MC and producer work well together. Jarel takes the opportunity to rein in the tendency to create chaotic beats that might be more at home on Brainfeeder. Instead he leaves plenty of space for DOOM to do his thing while still veering in to off-kilter weirdness from time to time. The real star of the show here is DOOM though. It feels as if this is the first time he's gotten the chance to spit some verses in awhile. He's on point and has more than enough to say, whether it's talking about Frankenfoods, his banishment from the US or referencing the 2010 Icelandic volcano eruption. His vocab is still fathomless and his voiced packed with grittiness that there are more than a few moments where you'll be pressing rewind. Features appearances by Beth Gibbons (Portishead), Khujo Goodie, Boston Fielder and Damon Albarn. Artwork by Stephen Powers aka ESPO. Recommended.

• Music Label: Lex Records 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 09/2012