daily arrivals

Record Store Day 2012 Exclusive! Now that James Murphy and Co. have retired, it's no better time to revisit where it all began. "Losing My Edge" sounds as relevant today as it did when it was released back in 2002 (and technically sounds even better thanks to a fresh remaster). The disco punk aesthetic displayed here would became a signature sound of LCD as well as DFA. Also includes one of the best B-sides ever with "Beat Connection." Limited press, recommended.

• music label: DFA 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Debut single for Airhead on the esteemed R&S label. The London-based producer's beats have been drawing comparisons to early James Blake and with one listen to "Wait" it is easy to see why. The subtle textures, abstract programming, and oddly chopped-but-still-catchy vocals seem to be a winning formula that only a select few producers can pull off with class and style. Airhead is definitely one of them. Also includes "South Congress" on the flip for more lush and delicate post-dubstep flavor.

• music label: R&S 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

Impressive full length from Matt "Lone" Cutler for R&S. Galaxy Garden confirms our suspicions that Lone would be one to look out for, a feeling we had after hearing the stellar "Once In A While" on Kode9's DJ-Kicks mix, and know on his his fifth album since 2007 (that averages to about one a year!), he delivers his most complete and cohesive work to date. On Galaxy Garden, Lone is skillfully takes elements of old school rave, garage, techno, footwork, and bass and creates something familiar, yet totally unique. There are few producer peers in the scene (maybe just Rustie?) that can pile on as many intricate layers in a single track and still make it sound uncluttered and coherent. A quick listen to cuts like "A New Colour," "The Animal Pattern," "Crystal Caverns 1991," "Cthulu" and "Dream Girl/Sky Surfer" reveal a love for old school roots coated with a fresh, new school sheen. 12 tracks in all with free CD version of the entire album.

• music label: R&S 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Nearly 20 years after its initial release, Aphex Twin's Selected Ambient Works Volume II has maintained its status as one of the landmark albums of electronic music. Picking up where Selected Ambient Works '85-'92 left off, it is appears that this album was composed over a much shorter period of time. There is more cohesion between the individual tracks and the record's sequencing leads to a grander statement than its predecessor. Although it may have confounded those fans looking for the intense gabber workouts and techno explorations that Aphex had made his mark with, Selected Ambient Works Volume II follows in the path set out by early electronic and ambient pioneers like Brian Eno, Erik Satie, Steve Reich, and Terry Riley with tremendous success. The pieces are at once eerie and soothing, balancing subtle dissonance with mournful drones. There's a dark and creepy underbelly to the whole affair. And while all that may sound dark and brooding, there is an uplifting quality to the work. The album was released without any track names, save for "Blue Calx," just a color coded chart for each side with an associated picture on the sleeve. Over the years fan impetus led to each track being given a name based on the image representing it (i.e. "Rhubarb" for track 3). Unfortunately, the elusive "Stone In Focus" - track E2 on the original vinyl release - is missing from this reissue. Selected Ambient Works Volume II is one of the highlights of Richard D. James' prolific career and a must for any fan of ambient electronic music. Includes a semi-gloss single-sided paper insert. Recommended.

• Music Label: 1972 2012

reviewed by The Voice 05/2012

A 1995 collection of early Rephlex and R&S recordings. The opening track on here, "Digeridoo" was his first big track and the one that brought attention to this bedroom freak. The story is that some DJ thought it might be weird to put this on during a party and people started dancing bugged out to it. Somehow it caught on from there and became an underground hit. Back in high school, stuff off these labels was hard as hell to track down. Shit came in bubble wrap, no sticker, sometimes no markings at all. I had my friend hunt down the Digeridoo 12", and he found it in some record shop in France that looked like a cave. I was pretty amazed that he tracked it down, but when I finally got to hear this record, I was confused. It wasn't the dreamy stoned sound on the tracks from Selected Ambient Works, but a harsh, super aggressive sound that got me shook. The sound on this comp is hard and electronic, kinda like early Detroit, but analog dirtier with more warmth. Normally I wouldn't give this style much of a chance, but since it was Aphex Twin, I left it out. I found myself listening to it at strange times for no particular reason and enjoying for less reason. Heads searching for the dreamy Aphex sound will get a rest with "Polynomial -C" and the classic "Analogue Bubblebath I." If you liked Ambient Works you might like the dichotomy presented here, but if you want to chill you might want to stay away. No trips.

• music label: R&S Records 1995

reviewed by the mgmnt

Sophomore effort from Mad Decent's resident dubstep heavyweight, Rusko! Songs follows Rusko's 2010 full length debut O.M.G.!, an album that helped propel heavy dubstep into the mainstream consciousness (where it is now very familiar). But on Songs, Rusko puts the focus on other styles of bass music, from old school rave and garage, to more reggae-tinged strains of bass and dubstep with an emphasis on melodies and song arrangement. Check the huge pianos and massive drops on "Somebody To Love," the high energy of "Pressure," and "Thunder" for a taste of the hype rave vibes Rusko is capable of, while "Skanker," "Love No More," "Be Free," "Mek More Green" and "Roll Da Bass" showcase some of the aforementioned reggae fusions. Fans of the heavy dubstep bangers Rusko built his name on needn't worry, there's some of that on that album too! 14 tracks in all over 2LPs.

• record label: Mad Decent 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

Resident FG designer Dust La Rock flips A-Trak's iconic stage setup into a clean, streamlined shirt design. A-Trak logo hit on the back below the neck. Printed on 100% cotton American Apparel tees, slim fit.

• 100% cotton
• slim fit

A tribute to Stretch & Bobbito's legendary radio show on 89.9 back in the day! Features custom Dust La Rock artwork made specially for the 20th Anniversary reunion show. Fool's Gold logo hit on the back. Printed on 100% cotton, standard fit tees.

Fool's Gold teams up with Starter for some official logo snapbacks. Featuring raised gold logo embroidery on the front and Starter logo hit on the back, these will keep you stylin' through all seasons. Adjustable snap closure in the back, black under brim. One size fits most.

• one size fits most

Official Fool's Gold stickers! You've seen 'em on the laptops of the biggest DJs and know you can have some for your own. Each pack has a random assortment of high quality FG stickers. Designs include the infamous gold bar, the Duck Sauce duck, Mr. Goldbar, or one of the many FG artist logos. Comes with five to a pack.

TTL loves Zip Zingers. This deck features the classic Zip Zinger shape, perfect for cruising and popping off ollies over dead rats. Comes pre-gripped with the Zip Zinger logo showing. Recommended.

• 7.5 x 30.35
• Pre-Gripped with Black Griptape

Big and cushy wheels for street cruising.

• set of (4) wheels
• large 65mm diameter for cruising
• 78a softness for smooth and rough pavement

Operation Doomsday never sounded better. For the Silver Age Set, the classic Doom album gets a fresh remaster and is pressed up on colored silver/gunmetal vinyl! The records themselves are housed in a special metallic sleeve with embossed image of Doom's notorious metal mask. An essential piece for the Doom completist. Lab heads should know the music, but here's our original review of the album as a refresher: Zev Love X of KMD reincarnated himself as MF Doom the masked villain who came out the ashes of the death (RIP Subroc) and major label weakness (fuc Elektra). He blasted back on the scene with a series of acclaimed Fondle 'Em vinyl releases (which now go for 40+ buck a pop!). All of a sudden, his early material was gone. Luckily MF has released a new pressing of his full length which includes all 89.9 classics like "Dead Bent" (yes!), "Red and Gold," and "Gas Drawls." The production is rough and the guests stanky the way like we like it. Classic NY underground. 18 tracks in all. (Note: Due to the nature of colored vinyl, each pressing is unique and may have imperfections.)

• music label: Metal Face Records 2012

reviewed by snackmaster 05/2012

Ah, the picture comes together. From Stones Throw: "When Madlib launched his Madlib Medicine Show last year, the original idea was simple: twelve releases, one per month, alternating between original works and mixtapes spanning dierent genres. It took a little longer than planned to hit number 12 - so we ordered up a bonus, number 13 - and, since we figured that there might be some new converts to the fold, we decided to package all 13 albums together. We call this collection The Brick. The Madlib Medicine Show Series is a combination of Madlib's new hip-hop productions, remixes, beat tapes, and jazz, as well as mixtapes of funk, soul, Brazilian, psych, jazz and other undefined forms of music from the Beat Konducta's 4-ton stack of vinyl." In summation: you get all 12 Medicine Show CDs plus a bonus 13th CD, individually packaged and shrinkwrapped together into a "brick". Recommended.

• music label: Stones Throw 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 03/2012

The first and only single from Dominatrix, now on hot pink 7" vinyl. "The Dominatrix Sleeps Tonight" was an experiment in synth-pop from Stuart Argabright (of Ike Yard / Black Rain fame) along producer Ken Lockie, vocalist Claudia Summers and keyboardist Peter Baumann (of Tangerine Dream!) released on Arthur Baker's Streetwise imprint back in 1984. Aside from being considered one of the first "Freestyle" records to achieve mainstream success, the track also crossed over to many underground NYC scenes - from B-boy circles to bondage circles - no easy feat by any means! Today the track still gets love on the dancefloor in almost any kind of set with its catchy hooks, bullet proof drum programming, and freaky, poppy synths. Features the uber-rare "Beat Me Sratch Me Scratch Me Beat Me" Mix by Kool DJ Red Alert on the flip (previously only available on hard-to-find UK and German 7" pressings). Recommended.

• music label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Big Fun In The Big Town offers a rare glimpse into the beginnings of hip-hop and NY culture circa the mid-80's. The film, made back in '86, is a documentary piece on the then-emerging cultural movement by Dutch film maker Bram Van Splunteren. Since then, it has seldom been screened, despite capturing the budding New York rap scene during it's vital stages. Witness a hungry LL Cool J bust freestyle raps acapella, Doug E Fresh blowin' minds with insane beat box techniques, Roxanne Shante and Biz Markie freak a live show, Grandmaster Flash gettin' busy on the decks, a young Russell Simmons and Run DMC, and much more. Looking back now, the film is truly a treasure trove of rare footage from hip-hop's golden age. From the label: "This essential, fast-paced documentary shows hip-hop from just about every angle, and approaches its subjects with a journalistic sobriety and respect rarely given to this oft-misunderstood artform and culture, even to this day. It presents worldwide superstars and aspiring rappers, dancers and beatboxers on an even playing field, reminding us that rap was once a wide-open game for anyone with talent to grab at the brass ring of fame." Recommended.

Debut release from Nitetime aka Kon (of Kon & Amir fame) and the Whisky Baron on Australia's Future Classic label. Seems like anything Kon touches these days is turns to dancefloor gold (check his recent rework of Sylvester if you need proof) and this EP is no exception. The 4 tracks contained here are a slight departure from Kon's and the Whisky Baron's edit/rework style as they focus more on original house production that'll tear up the floor. Check "Teddy's Jam" with its deep, chugging slo-house groove topped off perfectly with Mr. Pendergrass vocal bits. Next up, "Hey!" turns up the heat with jazzy loops and diva chops, while "All The People" injects a bit of Chi-Town flavor into the mix to get things jackin' and put it over the top. Finally, "Jive Talk" rounds out the EP with catchy synth loops that'll keep you dancin' well past last call. Don't sleep on this one, recommended.

• music label: Future Classic 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Maceo Plex is back with that heat. The Valencia-based producer has been quiet for a hot second after riding a string of strong releases in 2011, but "Frisky" breaks the silence as his first release for 2012. The track slickly weaves house, funk and disco with freaky vocals into a surefire floor worker. This one is seriously sick - throw it in the mix and watch people let themselves go! "Sex Appeal" takes the flip and ups the intensity for a pure dancefloor freakout. Fans of Hot Creations/Hot Natured, Wolf+Lamb, etc. need to check!

• music label: Crosstown Rebels 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

12" treatment for two stand out cuts from Soul Clap's debut full length, EFUNK. "Let It Go" is Soul Clap doing what they do best - sleek and sexy house with an R&B touch courtesy of vocalist Roldy Cezaire. The original is the jam but also check the stripped down disco rework from Miguel Campbell of Hot Creations fame. Flipside features freaky funk of "The Clapping Song" in both original and dub versions. Pic sleeve.

• music label: Wolf + Lamb 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Way back when I was still in high school I remember highly anticipating the release of the Beastie Boys' Ill Communication. After pretty much wearing through the tapes for Paul's Boutique and Check Your Head, I was in desperate need of some more Beastie Boys material. The day it was released I think I cut out of school in the middle of the day and made my way towards Amoeba in Berkeley to get my fix. One of the stand out tracks was "Get It Together" with the Eugene McDaniels sample and Q-tip trading off verses, a classic piece of hip hop history. The Buckwild Remix brings some real D.I.T.C. magic to the affair. He might just be one of the most under rated producers of his era. Frequent Beasties collaborator Mario Caldato Jr. flips the Grand Funk Railroad "Nothing Is The Same" sample for the A.B.A. Remix. You also get album cut "Resolution Time" and the inescapable "Sabotage." Includes instrumentals for "Get It Together" and the remixes. Classic material.

• Music Label: Capitol 1994

reviewed by The Voice 06/2011

Every couple years, a new wave of Beastie Boys reissues comes out- some legit, some imported and reconfigured, some that die with their boots on- presenting the collector / dj with an ever expanding universe of Beastie possibilities. Need "Cookie Puss" and the instrumental for "Pass The Mic" on one twelve inch? It's probably out there somewhere. Even the trail of official Def Jam singles is maddeningly robust (there's at least 3 configurations for every single off the first album- check Discogs), but at the end of the day, the reason why there's so much Beastie's stuff is cause these things never get old. The shit from the first album can be whatever you want it to (so flexible): floor filler, remix fodder, jock jams, white people funk, karaoke fire starter, etc. This one sticks to the original configuration, with "Paul Revere" on one side, "It's The New Style" on the other, with instrumentals for both. Side 1 is mislabeled.

• Music Label: Def Jam 1986

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2006

Probably my favorite single off the first Beastie album, I always loved the combo of the shout-along powerhouse "No Sleep" with the semi-cutesy "She's Crafty." Now, I've been a reactionary Beasties hater for years now (those fans, and those last couple albums, woah), but stuff off Licensed To Ill is like worldwide property. It's so far removed from what they're doing now and so ingrained in the "very fiber" of any late 20-something (or old man 30 something like me) that you really can't pass judgment on it. This shit exists in an indestructible bubble.

• Music Label: Def Jam 1986

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2006

Deluxe, remastered triple vinyl reissue of Biz Markie's Goin' Off, complete with bonus remixes, original 12" versions, demo versions, and instrumentals. Biz released the album in an era of Boogie Down Beef and "hard" MCs. With hit tracks like "Pickin' Boogers," "Making Music With Your Mouth Biz," "Vapors," and "Biz Is Goin' Off," he quickly out-shined many fellow rappers - his playful, down to earth steez triumphed over tough talk. Not to mention he killed the beat box genre with "Making Music..." (wish I could do that). This special edition is for the real-deal collectors and hip hop fanatics. A lot of the added material is ultra-rare (where else are you going to get the "Nobody Beats" demo version?) and unique. A perfect twist to your next mixtape or show...

• music label: Traffic

reviewed by C'mish 12/2011

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Crate Digging 101. Two undisputed classics from Bob James back to back on 12". When it comes to James' much sampled catalog, it doesn't get much more essential then "Mardi Gras" and "Nautilus." Upgrade that old worn out Alpha Omega copy with this one that has convincing CTI labels. Cop doubles and get busy!

• music label: CTI Records

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

LAB POINTS

• upgraded version of Lab bestseller Debut III, our recommended listening turntable
• excellent value for less than $400
• includes high-end Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge
• fuller, richer sound via Carbon Fiber tonearm
• belt drive motor
• removable RCA cable
• glossy piano black finish

CARBON vs. DEBUT III

• upgraded Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge for better sound quality
• new Carbon Fiber tonearm reduces resonance and provides better sound quality
• larger 12" balanced steel platter (vs. 11" platter on Debut III)
• redesigned body and suspension for less vibration
• RCA cable is removable

LAB REVIEW

The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon turntable is a resouding upgrade to their popular Debut III turntable. The Debut Carbon features an Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge upgrade for fuller richer sound (better sound than Ortofon OM5e that came with the Debut III), a Carbon Fiber tonearm usually found in higher end turntables, and a completely redesigned, vibration-dampening inner-body. Boasting an excellent price point (same as the colored Debut III), but with improved hi-fi features and better cartridge, the Debut Carbon is an excellent entry to mid-level audiophile deck or a simply beautiful looking listening turntable.

Beyond its sleek exterior, the quality features run deep with the aforementioned upgrades plus a low-tolerance chrome-plated stainless-steel axle that runs on a polished ball bearing in a brass bearing housing; a reduced vibration motor; and resonance damping feet. All of those features equate to a better listening experience versus your basic $200.00 turntable. A consistent bestseller online and at our stores, highly recommended.

KEY FEATURES

• 8.6" Carbon tube tone-arm
• manual, belt drive operation
• base made of MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard, a very dense engineered wood material)
• 12" balanced steel platter
• low-tolerance chrome-plated stainless-steel axle runs on a polished ball bearing in a brass bearing housing
• motor decoupled to reduce vibration
• resonance damping feet

COMES WITH

• Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge
• felt platter mat
• dustcover
  

LAB POINTS

• reduce record wear and improve sound quality with properly aligned cartridge
• simple to use
• great for both everyday listening and DJs
• includes (1) Geo-Disc
• no additional tools necessary

LAB REVIEW

Mobile Fidelity's popular Geo-Disc tool takes the guess work out of mounting and aligning your phono cartridge allowing you to get the most out of turntable setup. The device is simple to use and extremely accurate, making proper cartridge alignment a snap (which is usually a tedious and time consuming process). Simply put the plastic disc on your platter and align using the printed graph based on the Baewald alignment curve. They even printed the instructions on the Geo-Disc itself so you don't have to worry about losing them. Realize the full potential of your sound system with a properly aligned cartridge.

Top quality reissue of Howlin' Wolf's 1969 full length. The Howlin' Wolf album is widely considered a modern classic, even though Howlin' Wolf himself really didn't like it (he even went so far to call it "dog shit"). It was a bold experiment back in the time of its original release by Cadet Records (a subsidiary of Chess Records) - to take a legendary blues artist like Wolf and try to modernize his sound by integrating electric instruments and pyschedelic arrangements (a la Hendrix). Even the album art was a radical experiment stating the artist disapproved of it right on the cover! Not surprisingly it didn't sell very well back then, but over time the album won a special place amongst music aficionados thanks to its unique mix of traditional blues and electric rock elements. Diggers will note the heavy breaks littered all over this piece and might even catch a known sample or two.. or three. Highest quality vinyl pressing with audio remastered from the original analog tapes for optimum sound quality and comes packaged in a paste-on style jacket featuring the album's famous original artwork. Comes in black or red printed cover (randomly shipped).

• music label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 05/2012

Now on vinyl by popular demand! Soul In A Digital World was originally released on CD back in 2010, and ever since its was dropped, people have been asking "where's the vinyl version?". A couple years later and prayers are answered on thick black wax. For those unfamilar with Derobert & The Half-Truths, they are the in-house band for G.E.D. Soul - a small relatively unknown label from Nashville, TN that is pumping out some of the best deep fried southern soul as can be heard all over this LP (Tkat from the NY store actually put us on to these guys by picking up some records they brought into the shop). The samples will speak for themselves as this is 100% analog soul for fans of Daptone, Funk Night Recs, and Truth & Soul! Recommended.

• music label: G.E.D. Soul 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 05/2012

The original "My Daddy Waza" undoubtedly will evoke Serge Gainsbourg on first listen with its low, drifting vocals that have just the right amount of smoke & sleaze. Kid Loco’s production, however, leans on to the psychedelic Latin side of things with locked in percussion, soaring horns and pianos. Buenos Aires producer Ezequiel Lodeiro (aka Dr. Stereo) locks in his own "Latinazo" style remix of the tune for a four-to-the-floor banger that really lets the piano chops and percussion shine out. On the flip, Italian producer Suonho strips things down and unleashes a beast of a remix with funky stand-up bass, Rhodes chords and bigger piano parts, of course. Brooklyn’s own Greenwood Rhythm Coalition comes in last, dropping the piano and horns and running the synth parts hard for a shimmering analog Psych-cum-Cumbia infected joint that rounds things off perfectly with the female vocals on the chorus. Also included is the instrumental for your DJing pleasure.

• music label: Bastard Jazz 2012

reviewed by label 05/2012

Gotta love how Wu-Tang appropriated something as basic as Ice Cream. The Rocksmith kids give the Clan a popping cartoon look (gotta love those vibrant colors) in their own customized CREAM mobile. Not as obvious as wearing a big Wu-Tang logo across your chest, this shirt is one that you can rock until your hair turns gray.

• standard fit
• 100% cotton

Rocksmith revive their now iconic Notorious BIG x Basquiat tribute in special colorways to match the season's limited edition sneaker packs. If you're not into that shoe game, just ignore that part and catch the vapors of these fresh colors.

• standard fit
• 100% cotton

Technical windbreaker from Mishka. The Swarm features numerous zippered pockets to stash your stuff, contrast color accents along the zipper and inside mesh lining, drawcord adjustable hem and hood, sleeve piping, and reflective Mishka logo on the vent panel in the back. The is the perfect combination of form and function, especially for the bike riders out there (it's like a lightweight Spetnaz). Nylon construction, standard fit.

• 100% nylon construction
• standard fit

Mishka keeps it simple with a classic zip hoodie featuring their iconic Keep Watch logo embroidered on the left chest. The perfect kind of hoodie for everyday use, and or layering when it gets chilly out. Features contrast drawstring for the hood and front pockets. 100% cotton, standard fit.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

Crisp polo from Mishka. The Hooligan features 2 button neck opening, with contrast stripes behind the button flap. Embroidered Mishka patch (that reads est. 2003 NYC) on the left chest completes the look. 100% cotton, standard fit.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

Mishka's Olde School Hat features raised "M" in classic old English font embroidered on the front of official Starter branded caps. Pretty gangster, especially if rocked with Chucks or creased Dickies. Adjustable snap closure on the back, cotton construction. One size fits most.

• cotton contstruction
• one size fits most

Mishka's Olde School Hat features raised "M" in classic old English font embroidered on the front of official Starter branded caps. Pretty gangster, especially if rocked with Chucks or creased Dickies. Adjustable snap closure on the back, cotton construction. One size fits most.

• cotton contstruction
• one size fits most

Mishka, this time in conjunction with New Era, brings back the super popular Keep Watch Painter cap. Huge Keep Watch eyeball graphic hit on top, which is awesome, and the 80s punk/skate letters wrap around the side. Cotton construction, one size fits most.

• cotton construction
• one size fits most

Shamrocks and shenanigans. Mishka gives the Celtics logo a make-over from the crypt! Printed on 100% cotton tanks that'll keep you cool when the weather heats up. Standard fit.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

The Bear Mop graphic returns behind bars so to speak. Black Flag and Mishka together at last! Printed on 100% cotton, standard fit tees.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

Lamour Supreme's flip on Mishka's ever-popular Keep Watch design. This one has that raw skate/punk vibe all over it. Graphic is printed dead center on 100% cotton, standard fit shirts.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

From Brooklyn to Tokyo, Mishka's worldwide expansion is no joke. This one features a 90's college sports design with the iconic keep watch eyeball dead center. Printed on 100% cotton, standard fit shirts.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

Stimulating visuals from Mishka. Get lost in the psychedelic graphics and you might just go from here to eternity without the help of any mind-altering substances! Printed in day glow colors on 100% cotton shirts, standard fit.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

Black on black is always a good look, especially when 10 Deep is handling the design. That is what you get with this Stomp Starter snapback. Front features puff-embroidered Diamond Logo with horizontal stripes while back features the Starter logo so you know it's official. Cotton body, adjustable snap closure fits most.

• cotton body
• one size fits most

10 Deep goes for a vintage style font for the Delta House shirt with lettering looking like something you would see on an old-timey baseball penant. Printed on clean and crispy, 100% cotton shirts with small "10" hit on the back bottom. Standard fit.

• 100% cotton
• standard fit

Jay Dee stuff is out in abundance now, but the reason may not be the one you think.  (R.I.P.) Fact is, Dilla was reaching the height of his popularity after a long climb, and Donuts was perhaps his most critically acclaimed work. People have been scrambling to compile the man's back catalogue for months. This is obviously a key piece: his production album for BBE back in 2001 featuring Detroit/SV affiliates like Phat Kat, Frank N Dank, Elzhi and others.

• music label: BBE / 2001

reviewed by the mgmnt 02/2006

In one of the biggest stealth moves ever, Jay Dee spent the last decade rising from underground prodigy to deified musical martyr, quietly redefining the sound of hip-hop along the way. The Shining was scheduled as the follow-up to the overlooked at the time/classic in retrospect Welcome 2 Detroit, but as the truncated timing (36 minutes) suggests, BBE and executive producer Karriem Riggins had to piece the project together when Yahweh decided He needed some beats and called Dilla up to the big MPC in the sky. In spite of the circumstances, Riggins has done a good job of making the finished product sound like a coherent album.  The Common/D'Angelo collab "So Far To Go" is about as beautiful a Jay Dee beat as I've heard, definitely some keep-the-instro-on-repeat-and-stare-at-the-clouds shit.  The ladies will also love "Dime Piece," which reuses an old Dwele vocal (from "Angel," I think), but don't get worried, in classic Dilla style, there's some nasty gully grooves to balance the pretty stuff out. Check "Jungle Love" where he swings chains--yes, chains--for the hi-hat, or the brutal instrumental "Body Movin'." Longtime homey Black Thought provides lyrical heat on another crackling beat ("Love Movin'") and Pharoahe Monch finally gets a chance to rip over a Dilla treat on "Love Jones." More beats from the vaults will inevitably be released in years to come, but The Shining is a fitting final chapter to the quiet legend's life.

• music label: BBE / 2006

reviewed by monk 08/2006

Boston's Whiskey Barons, of recent BSTRD Boots fame, drop a similarly slanted 10" dedicated to James Brown. A-side features a drum enhanced version of "There Was A Time" that's been getting play by Gilles, Cosmo, DJ Day, Kon, and many others. Worth it alone for this heavyweight secret weapon that will get label spotted everytime you play it. The b-side features playful remix of "Can't Take It With You." Recommended. 

• music label: Flavorheard

reviewed by the mgmnt 09/2011

For the third installment in their Healin' Feelin' series Psychemagik drop two sultry cuts ready to heat any dance floor up. Leading things off "Way Milky" gets its spunk from some especially funky bass playing. It's all topped off with some sweet piano action and plenty of space effects. On the flip we take a slight detour from the space mission with some Balearic, Gibb brothers inspired, blue eyed soul. This is Psychemagik at the top of their edit game getting ready to ease you into summer.

• Music Label: Psychemagik 2012

reviewed by The Voice 05/2012