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• 051713

Watch out fi dis! Major Lazer is back to free the universe! For their sophomore full length, Diplo comes through as solo executive producer to drop heaters all over the place to shake up the sound system. The Major Lazer sound is constantly evolving, but here it's still rooted in heavy dancehall, fused with electro, trap, bounce, and all manner of EDM to mash up the place something proper. We've been jamming the deep vibes of "Get Free" with Amber from Dirty Projectors for a minute now, but check the heavy bumps of "Watch Out For This" with Busy Signal, "Keep Cool" with Shaggy, "Bubble Butt" with Bruno Mars & Tyga, "Jet Blue Jet" with Leftside, GTA, Razz & Biggy, and the jungle influenced "Jah No Partial" with Flux & Pavillion for a taste. You can trust this bangs from beginning to end with other guest spots from Laidback Luke, Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend, Elephant Man, The Partysquad and more. Pressed on limited edition red and yellow vinyl in gatefold sleeve with fold out mini poster and download card. Recommended.

• music label: Secretly Canadian / Mad Decent 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013

Sign up for Restock Email Notification (on the right) to receive a one-time notification when this item becomes available. If there is an "add to cart" button, this item can be purchased immediately. Full review and images to follow.

• 050913

1981 Post Punk for 2013. The London four piece has been making waves around the world with their aggressive yet catchy tunes recalling your favorite Punk Rock female leads from Siouxsie to Karen. Tribal drumming with jangly guitar riffs and overdriven bass, it's hard not to think back to simpler times of pure, sweaty rock n roll. Fans of Mission of Burma, Jesus Lizard, and The Seconds will find a comfortable home in Silence Yourself. Stand out tracks include "Husbands", "City's Full", and the perfect opener in "Shut Up". Comes in limited edition matte sleeve, pressed on clear vinyl. Recommended.

• music label: Pop Noire / Matador 2013

reviewed by slammin jamon 5/13

Those that follow Deerhunter always know to brace themselves when the band drops a new album. Long known for stylistic jumps that take the band further down their own trail, each album appears as an artistic statement in its own right. So it may come as a surprise to some that instead of lurching ever forward Deerhunter has taken a left turn off course with Monomania. The album is dirty and raunchy, drenched in distortion and pure rock n roll. The ethereal bits of albums past have taken a backseat to the guitars and upfront vocals. They've definitely avoided repeating themselves and they've done so with great skill. And despite the slight detour, nobody is going to be disappointed. There are plenty of effective melodies and poignant lyrics. The album's unpredictability may be its greatest asset, as well. If Deerhunter had gone on to do what was expected of them I'm sure we all would have been a little disappointed. Monomania is a fitting piece of the puzzle for a band that has managed to consistently deliver greatness for the better part of the last decade.

• music label: 4AD 2013

reviewed by Hank Ohs

Bob Marley's less than two year span (1970-71) of recording with Lee Perry is undoubtedly his finest work and a magical moment in music history. These sessions have been bastardized with poorly executed cd comps and poor quality vinyl pressings (thus, the straight forward "Best Of The Upsetter Years" CD goes for a lot money, go figure). Enter our favorite Russian reissue label Lilith with this deluxe 180g pressing with CD version included (in addition, the CD features 3 bonus dub versions!). At 14 tracks, it's pretty thorough (no "Small Axe" however) and cleanly executed. Feel the magic, recommended.

• music label: Lilith / Interscope 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013

This is not quite what you would expect from Matthewdavid's Leaving Records and Stones Throw. The former traffics in abstract beats that follow in the wake of Flying Lotus, while the latter has its roots in hip hop but has dabbled in a little bit of everything as of late - save for the house and techno of The Cyclist, however. Bones In Motion may not be the most obvious jumping off point for a collaboration between the two labels, but the tell tale signs are there. The Irish producer uses a combination of elements that will not be unfamiliar; drum machines, samples, synths and a healthy dose of warm distortion. There are minimal exercises in simplicity coupled with dirt covered excursions to the dancefloor. While The Cyclist's contemporaries might aim for pristine productions, it appears he enjoys his sound running in the red through a vintage cassette deck. This will be welcome news to fans of both labels, as it seems The Cyclist embraces the experimentalism with a nod to the past that both thoroughly endorse.

• music label: Leaving Records 2013

reviewed by The Voice 05/2013

Incredible sophomore full length from Charles Bradley. If you heard 2011's No Time For Dreaming, then you already know Bradley is the truth. Now on Victim Of Love, "The Screaming Eagle of Soul" delivers more of that raw soul goodness you need in your life - moving past the previous themes of heartaches and pain to the great promise of hope and love. Bradley's voice just emanates soul, and paired with writer/producer/multi-instrumentalist Thomas "TNT" Brenneck, you've got an extremely potent combination that will lift your spirits anytime it's on. Check "Strictly Reserved For You," "Dusty Blue," "Confusion," "Hurricane," and "Victim Of Love." Seriously good stuff that demands heavy rotation, can't recommend it enough!

• music label: Daptone / Dunham Records 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013

The Phoenix has risen! The French rockers that everyone loves to adore are back with their follow up to Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. While Bankrupt! does not stray too far from the course set by its predecessor it is in no way short of new thrills. It's a jittery, hyperactive, ADD affair that falls perfectly in place with the state of the world today. And while you may not be able to decipher a single thing that vocalist Thomas Mars is saying, he is like the glue that holds the ship together and points it in the right direction. There's a bombastic feeling that lurks behind nearly every song. They may be over stuffed with ideas, but somehow Phoenix manages to pull it all off. This is the uplifting stuff that those of us with short attention spans crave. Like a shot of endorphins straight to the cortex.

• music label: Glassnote Entertainment Group 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 04/2013

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are back! Incase you thought they went too (synth) pop on It's Blitz, YYY flip it on ya with return to form on their fourth studio album. Mosquito has a darker edge than the previous effort, a return to the raw you might say, but still with a diverse and catchy sonic palette throughout the album. Right from the opener "Sacrilege," Karen O, Nick Zinner, and Brian Chase deliver the goods by way of rockin' drums, infectious melodies, and killer vocals as only Ms. O can bring. The title cut "Mosquito," and "Slave," also hit it right on the head with stomping rhythms and great hooks, while tracks like "Under The Earth," "Subway," "Always" and "Wedding Song" provide a perfect counter balance. Also worth noting is the awesome electronic vibe of "These Paths" and "Buried Alive," the surprising collab with Dr. Octagon! 11 tracks in gatefold sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: Polydor 2013

reviewed by suicide bangs 04/2013

Record Store Day 2013 Exclusive! This limited edition release from Shuggie Otis compiles some of the best tracks from three classic albums (Here Comes Shuggie Otis, Freedom Flight and Inspiration Information) on a single slab of wax. This is the perfect place to start for anyone new to Shuggie's sweet, soulful sound, and those already familiar will appreciate having these tracks grouped together on thick, loud 180g vinyl. Check the favorites like "Strawberry Letter 23," "Island Letter," "Aht Uh Mi Head," "Hurricane," and "Baby I Need You." Machine numbered editions with free MP3 download. Recommended.

• 180g vinyl
• free MP3 download
• Record Store Day 2013 exclusive
• music label: Epic / Legacy 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2013

Laurie Spiegel's ground breaking debut album finally reissued! Originally released back in 1980 on the tiny Philo label, The Expanding Universe remains a sought-after and pioneering work in computer-based music. On first listen, the minimalist experimental / ambient vibes will remind you of work from Terry Riley, Steve Reich, Phillip Glass, or even Brian Eno - but the method in which this work was created is what makes it truly special. Laurie realized and composed these pieces completely from electronic sounds on the GROOVE system at Bell Laboratories between the years of 1974 and 1977, interacting with computer-based logic to create each piece (a feat far ahead of its time). The resulting music is rich and engrossing, full of slow churning sounds and evolving textures that totally suck you in to a world outside our own. The short sound samples really don't do justice, but check "Patchwork," "Old Wave," "Pentachrome," and the title track for a taste. Anyone who uses computer-based logic to create music (Ableton Live, Max/MSP,etc), definitely needs to hear this incredible work. Comes with free download card with expanded bonus tracks recorded from the same period, nearly all previously unreleased. Recommended.

• music label: Unseen Worlds 2013

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

It's no secret that Phoenix owes their rise to stardom to Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. The French rockers front-loaded their breakout album with two heavyweight singles in the anthemic "Lisztomania" and the synth ode "1901." Basically not messing around from the get go. You've heard it all, your sister has posters of these dudes on her wall and for some reason the music is still good. Don't be shy, we wont tell anyone. The band famously used Eno's Oblique Strategies flash cards in the creation of the album. Somehow that resulted in this monster of a pop record. If Phoenix was big in the underground before Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, they definitely broke through after it dropped.

• music label: Glassnote Entertainment Group 2009

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 04/2013

Unadulterated. First release from the official imprint of the Dilla estate. This single announces the release of an upcoming lost vocal full-length. These two tracks, recorded in early 2000, were produced by Dilla himself and found on 2" tape shortly after his passing in 2006. This first pressing features clear vinyl and the a Jeff Jank / Mason London sleeve with fold-over plastic sleeve (subsequent pressings will be standard). Recommended.

• music label: Pay Jay 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

Superb collection of rare spiritual jazz cuts compiled by Jazzman (who else?). Spiritual Jazz Volume 4 focuses on the works of American artists who recorded in Europe during the latter half of the 20th century. The tracks contained within often exchange hands for small fortunes and many have never been reissued before making this a must cop for anyone with more than a passing interest in spiritual jazz. From Jazzman: "Radical new jazz sounds created as renowned ex-pat American jazzman mingle with the crème de la crème of their European counterparts. Early developments in world music inspired by trans-global cultural excursions to Asia, Africa and beyond. Exchange of ideas and a cultural meeting of minds as revolutionary jazz festivals take place behind the Iron Curtain. Advances in rhythm and sound where modal jazz and the prophetic music of John Coltrane merges with European folk traditions. This is Spiritual Jazz – as played by Americans in Europe." Comes packaged as a deluxe triple LP set housed in glossy triple gatefold sleeve with extensive liner notes and free digital download, or as a double CD set with 16 page booklet, in-depth liner notes on each track with stories from the artists, cover scans and previously unpublished photos. Well recommended.

• music label: Jazzman 2013

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

Lush electro pop from Lusine on Ghostly. While Jeff McIlwain's previous efforts as Lusine were often abstract and experimental in nature, The Waiting Room explores more accessible and melodic forms of electronica. An impressive range of styles can be heard here - from melodic, synth-driven pop beats ("Panoramic," "Get The Message," "Without A Plan"), to deep, lush house grooves ("Lucky," "On Telegraph") and potent hybrids of both ("First Call"). Definitely one that works in the headphones as well as the discerning dancefloor. 10 tracks split over 2 LPs with free MP3 download.

• music label: Ghostly International 2013

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

Record Store Day 2013 Exclusive! Special RSD edition of Olafur Arnalds For Now I Am Winter complete with limited fan art booklet and limited to only 1000 copies. For those unfamiliar with the young Icelandic pianist's work - think lush, cinematic soundscapes, perfect for a sojourn through the forest or that long, introspective drive home. This is a sound that would go well with a listening session of Sigur Ros (whom he actually toured with in the past). It is careful music that takes its time to progress and is moody, dramatic, and beautiful all at the same time. 12 tracks total on Deutsche Grammaphone.

• includes limited edition fan art booklet
• limited 1000 copies only

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

Probably the biggest release of Record Store Day 2013, Phish's Lawn Boy vinyl was one of the band's holy grail collectables. With the last pressing over a decade ago, originals were exchanging in the 1K range. This deluxe Record Store Day edition features 180g double vinyl, housed in a NUMBERED gatefold fleece. In addition, the D-side features a special etching. 7500 copies worldwide.

• music label: Jemp Records 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

Limited edition reissue for Record Store Day 2013! Now available for the first time on vinyl in the US. Destroyer's first release for Merge Records was a divisive point in front man Dan Bejar's career. Following the success of Streethawk: A Seduction, the Canadian moved from the Emeryville, CA based indie imprint Misra Records to North Carolina's powerhouse Merge. At the same time he moved from Vancouver, BC to the tranquil environs of Montreal. The results were a departure from the previous album's concise statements. This Night delivers a song cycle that is altogether anthemic and symphonic. And while it may not hit you in the gut at first blush, it's a release that grows on you and has stood up to the test of time.

• 1st time US vinyl pressing
• 2000 copies only
• music label: Merge Records 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Radio pop if Clear Channel didn't exist. The duo formerly known as Teen Inc combine the pop sensibilities of Timbaland, 90's era Prince, and the background music to every sexual fantasy scene from your favorite film. Whispery vocals over staccato half time rhythms with nary a pop diva in sight. Like Frank Ocean and Miguel breathing some much needed life into the genre, INC. touches on the latter, but adds a different depth of warmth. The brothers Aged have worked with producer, songwriters Pharrell and Raphael Saadiq as session players in the past and now their time has come to let us get a glimpse into their world. Recommended.

• music label: 4AD 2013

reviewed by Teenager From Mars 2/2013

Proper 12" release for Justice's "Helix" - one of the obvious bangers off 2011's Audio, Video, Disco. When it comes to crafting big room french electro, these guys are experts - and this track is more proof. Check the addictive funk samples laced with tough programming, melodic prog guitar riffs, and epic breakdown designed to fully rock a packed stadium. Sure there's some obvious Daft influence here, but that's never a bad thing! The EP also hooks you up with the sleeper cut "Ohio," and the chilled out non-album joint "Presence," plus big room remixes of "Helix" from Gesaffelstein and Domenico Torti respectively. Comes in a full pic sleeve designed by Surface To Air.

• music label: Ed Banger / Because Music 2013

reviewed by TKB 02/2013

Absolutely no Harlem Shaking was done while recording this record. A$AP Rocky caused waves of commotion via the interwebz in 2011/12 with the release of his mixtape 'Live.Love.ASAP.'producing one of the best Southern Rap records in the last 5 years. The only odd thing about that is he is from New York. This being his major label debut and him moving to LA doesn't change the dark, brooding sound that producer Clams Casino helped him champion just a year ago. Carrying most of the album on his shoulders, you can't have a rap album without guests. Santigold, A$AP Ferg, Kendrick Lamar, 2Chainz, Drake, even Skrillex dropped in. Stand out tracks include the Hit Boy produced 'Goldie', title track 'Long.Live.A$AP' is ridiculously banging, posse rap cut 'F*cking Problems', + the Skrillex co-produced 'Wild For The Night' is dubsteppy... but we can easily overlook that for Rocky. The album comes packaged in a beautiful gatefold sleeve with insert 2x12 translucent orange vinyl pressing. Recommended.

• music label: Polo Grounds Music / RCA 2013

reviewed by boohoo banton 1/2013

Flying high in the world of cloud raps. The North Oakland rap duo gained attention on the internet with their 808s & Dark Grapes mixtape quickly catapulting them into the Tumblrsphere. Their style stays leaning towards their Nor Cal roots with hazy raps and even hazier beats. Sitting somewhere between the streetcentric A$AP Rocky and internet ramblings of Lil B. With Bossalinis & Fooliyones their approach stays in the clouds, but keeps grounded with their most accessible album than previous efforts. The bay area is definitely in their own world and these dudes clearly from there.

• music label: Young One Records 2012

reviewed by boohoo banton 1/2013

HUGE single from Solange Knowles written by Dev Hynes of Blood Orange. Our introduction to the tune was from a beautiful video shot in Cape Town and directed by Melina Matsoukas that has shot numerous videos from the likes of Lady Gaga to Pharrell. The bittersweet tune is a party jam with a grooving bass line and a sing along hook with Solange cutting to the chase asking her dude if this is it. Reminiscent of mid 90's Janet with a modern indie pop twist, this is a BANGER. Comes house in a sleek matte yellow sleeve with spot varnishing and free MP3 download. Recommended.

• music label: Terrible Records 2012

reviewed by boohoo banton 1/2013

Welcome repress of Nite Jewel's full length debut. Nite Jewel has certainly come a long way since 2008's Good Evening, from collaborating with West Coast funk master Dam-Funk to putting out material on Mexican Summer and Italians Do It Better. With her recent material being much more developed and produced, it's cool to see where it all started. Our original review from 2008: Loving the sweet, lo-fi sounds of Nite Jewel. After her release on Italians Do It Better, I was wondering where I was gonna find more from the LA singer/producer/composer. Luckily we got in this LP on Gloriette which seems like a small-press kinda deal that would be pretty hard-to-find. "Good Evening" is part shoe gaze, part new disco, part old school r&b, and part freestyle(?) all composed on a portable 8-track cassette deck with layered tape edits (hence that authentic low tech sound). It's a beautiful thing in these days of over-done tracks. Check the joints that made it to 12" on IDIB ("What Did He Say" and "Let's Go") or go for the deep RnB funk of "Weak For Me," the slow jammy goodness of "Artificial Intelligence," or space-out to the sound of "Suburbia" or "Universal Mind." 10 tracks total now with free MP3 download. Recommended.

• music label: Gloriette 2012

reviewed by TKB 12/2012

Sophomore full length for Van She on Modular. The Australian electro-pop outfit is well known around the office for their awesome cover of Daft's "Around The World" from a few years back, but on Idea Of Happiness they prove they're well adept at crafting original material of an equally jamming nature. Just skipping around the album and you'll be hard pressed not to move in your seat from the uber-catchy synth melodies and hooks that seems to be flowing in abundance on every track. The 80's synth pop influence runs deep on tracks like "Idea Of Happiness," "Jamaica," "Tears," and "Coconuts," but with a slick modern shine to the arrangement and mix. Basically throw this album on and you're immediately transported to a beach party on some remote island where the beats are tight and vibes are right. 12 tracks with free mp3 download included.

• music label: Modular 2012

reviewed by TKB 12/2012

A heavy batch of Nigerian heat from Soundway Reocrds! The label has done an excellent job unearthing and compiling music from Africa. Now they bring you the definitive retrospective of Tunji Oyelana. Here's what they had to say: During the golden age of Nigerian music in the 1970s, as thousands of records were produced in a wide spectrum of styles and marketed to an immense audience of ardent consumers, very few people - including the producers of the music themselves - seriously entertained the possibility that any of these popular entertainments could be considered as art. Enter the multifaceted artist Tunji Oyelana. Equal parts singer-songwriter, actor, bandleader, dramatist, comedian and academic, Oyelana elevated the realm of pop music by infusing it with the poetic storytelling of Yoruba folklore. Backed by his crack backing group, The Benders (named for their ability to traverse - and blend a variety of styles) Oyelana blended the fashionable sounds of highlife, afrobeat, afrorock, funk, calypso, juju and reggae and transformed them into something timeless and utterly unique. Tunji's first records came out in 1969 but it wasn't until two years later that the first record credited to Tunji Oyelana & The Benders, "Agba Lo De" b/w "Koriko Nde," was released. The record turned out to be the smash that put the name Tunji Oyelana & The Benders on the national map. More significantly, the record's unique sound - along with that of Fela Ransome-Kuti"s "Jeun K'oku" (chop and quench), which arrived mere weeks before it - signaled the emergence of a new era and a new genre in Nigerian music. Oyelana himself attributes his life as a professional artist to meeting Wole Soyinka, one of the unimpeachable doyens of Nigerian arts. They met in 1960 at the age of twenty-one, commencing a partnership that endured for more than five decades. In 1983, Soyinka joined The Benders for the album Unlimited Liability Company, which proved to be wildly popular with audiences across the country but angered Nigeria’s civilian government with its satirical critique of political corruption. Years later, Soyinka and Oyelana would run afoul of military dictator Sani Abacha while touring internationally with Soyinka's play The Beatification Of Area Boy in 1996 and find themselves charged with treason, forcing them into exile until Abacha's death in 1998. For Oyelana himself, the golden age continues as he lives with his family in London and continues to perform several nights a week at Emukay, the restaurant and cultural centre that he runs with his wife, which has become a mecca for fans eager for the privilege of beholding a living legend at work.

• music label: Soundway Records 2012

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 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

Record Store Day 2012 Black Friday Exclusive! Mayer Hawthorne's incredible live set on KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic gets a proper vinyl pressing just for Record Store Day. Includes 6 amazing tunes, "Love In Motion," "No Strings," "Dreaming," "Shiny & New," "I Wish It Would Rain," and "The Walk," proving Mayer is the real deal when it comes to this new school soul game. Pressed on 10" clear vinyl with free MP3 download. Limited edition.

• music label: Universal 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 12/2012

Lukid makes the move to Ninja Tune with his latest full length Lonely At The Top. The UK producer has been around for a minute (since 2007 to be exact), constantly evolving with an impressive range of styles on a couple well received EPs and an LP for Werk Discs, plus some 12"s for GLUM. On their own, the past releases may seem disparate at times, but Lonely At The Top brings it all together from a producer that has grown into his own skin. It is boundary-less electronic music that offers no explanations, just rich and intricate soundscapes to get lost in. From Ninja Tune "On Lonely At The Top we hear Lukid pooling together elements from his varied back-catalogue to create something that manages to sound like nothing he’s done before. We get glimpses of the raw anger displayed on his GLUM releases, of the ecstatic and psychedelic pop he makes with Simon Lord as Arclight, of his recent brooding score for the documentary Personal Best, and of his sunnier early releases on Werk, but it’s all assembled with a new voice and a new intent. Whatever has happened in Lukid’s life over the last few years, with the carefully constructed narrative arc of Lonely At The Top he gives the impression of a story of catharsis and redemption." 12 tracks in all, housed in gatefold sleeve with free MP3 download. Fans of Actress and Lone should be all over this.

• music label: Ninja Tune 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 11/2012

Freaking Out follows up Toro Y Moi's critically acclaimed sophomore effort Under The Pine and finds Toro (aka Chaz Bundick) delving heavily into the 80's r&b and boogie sound. The title track "Freaking Out" and "All Alone" show Bundick's done his homework, flossing shimmery synths and catchy melodies that Prince, The System or Mtume would be proud of. There's also the new jack-inspired "Sweet" or the fresh cover of Cherelle and Alexander O'Neal's "Saturday Love," and of course the obvious standout, "I Can't Get Love." This dude just keeps getting better and better! Recommended.

• music label: Car Park 2011

reviewed by snackmaster

Chaz Bundick aka Toro Y Moi drops his second full-length, Underneath The Pine. His debut album, Causers Of This, was a dreamy chillwave affair produced with a slew of synths, drum machines, and effects, but this time around, the South Carolina-based artist builds tracks with live instruments. The resulting sound is a combination of soft rock, pop, and in some cases, bits of soul and disco ("New Beat"), which creates an alluringly hazy backdrop for Moi's emotive, mellow vocals. Lyrically, Moi explores similar themes as he did in Causers - friends, family, girlfriends, etc - and verses like "that's what I still want now/ even if I'm here and I think that you won't be waiting/ 'cause I don't want to be alone" in "Still Sound" showcase his songwriting talent. Stand out tracks include "Good Hold," "Light Black," "Go With You" and "Divina."

• music label: Carpark 2011

reviewed by Nakinboots

Grizzly Bear's music has always been infused with nuance and detail. The quartet has grown from their debut on Ed Droste's home recorded Horn Of Plenty to showcase the talents of all involved. From their haunting vocal harmonies to their multifaceted instrumentation the band creates intricate tapestries infused with baroque melody that beckon the listener in. For their fourth proper album, Shields, Grizzly Bear have shaken off critics' assumptions that they are all flourish and no substance. Songs like the pair of lead-off singles, "Sleeping Ute" and "Yet Again", expose the band's emotional core in a way we have not heard before. At times it feels as if the compositions want to take off in multiple directions at once, but the tend to resolve at just the right moment. Chris Bear's drumming underpins the frantic and ethereal soundscapes created by Chris Taylor, while Droste seems to have a new found grittiness in his vocals. The real standout of Shields though, is Daniel Rossen. His folksy playing has grown to incorporate strands of jazz and prog-rock that add layers of depth to Grizzly Bear's sound. While Shields may be more demanding than Grizzly Bear's past albums it is ultimately stronger and more accomplished than anything that has come before. Deluxe 180 gram double vinyl in gatefold sleeve.

• Music Label: Warp Records 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 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

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 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 with free download card included. This is the limited Collector's Edition version pressed on double 180g vinyl, with full color inner sleeves and info sheet housed in hardcover gatefold style sleeve with tipped-on cover image. Highly Recommended.

• music label: Warp 2012

reviewed by TKB 10/2012

This isn't just another dubstep remix/mash-up release. Cypress Hill actually got in the studio and worked on brand new cuts with UK dubstep don Rusko! Obviously the result is uber heavy and destined to crush it, what with Rusko providing the massive bass drops and Cypress Hill adding that veteran LA rap swag. It's a match made in bass bro heaven! Five tracks in all with guest appearances from Damien Marley and Young De. Comes in full pic sleeve with free mp3 download. Heavy, heavy, heavy.

• music label: Cooperative Music 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 08/2012

Lots of interesting tidbits about this record, but lets start with the music. DUMP is the solo side project from James Mcnew, bass player of Yo La Tengo. For "NYC Tonight," McNew brings back that '79 disco vibe and lays it on a cover of the GG Allin (aka "the most spectacular degenerate in rock & roll history") song of the same name. Quite a feat, but he totally makes it work! The track will easily get itself stuck in your head with it's catchy laidback lyrics, swingy melodies, and subtle-y stomping disco beat. Flip side features a collab remix by Shitaro Sakamoto (ex-Yura-Yura Teikoku) with instrumentals for both. Pressed up in SAM style disco sleeve with free MP3 download. Manufactured by Presspop, the guys who brought you the Lee Perry doll!

• music label: Presspop 2012

reviewed by TKB 08/2012

Ariel Pink Haunted Graffiti return with their sophoromore effort for 4AD. Following 2010's highly regarded Before Today comes Mature Themes, a return to form of sorts for Ariel & Co. While Before Today found the band cleaning up their act with better (or less gritty) studio recordings and more accessible arrangements, Mature Themes brings back more of the lo-fi weirdness people loved Ariel Pink for in the first place. Influences range from 60's pop to AM radio gold, to lost slow jam gems (check "Baby," a duet with Dam-Funk!), and 70's psychedelic oddities. It's sort of a mixed bag as styles change from track to track, some retaining the bumpy disco vibe of the last album, while some throw out the beat all together in lieu of droning ambience ("Nostradamus & Me"). However you might feel about Ariel's stuff, one thing is certain - no one else is coming close to making anything that sounds like this! Well worth repeat listens for the open-minded listener.

• music label: 4AD 2012

reviewed by TKB 08/2012

Another legendary reggae label gets the official logo shirt treatment. Randy's is a well known name among reggae collectors as the label/studio (formed by Vincent "Randy" Chin) recorded many major figures of the Jamaican scene and original pressings are rare and sought-after. This shirt features the original Randy's logo printed in super soft discharge graphics on premium 100% cotton tees with exclusive Randy's music download included!

• includes exclusive download card
• 100% cotton
• standard fit

Junjo Lawes' famous Volcano imprint has been responsible for numerous dancehall hits, and here the label gets due respect on an official logo tee from Riddim Driven. Each limited edition shirt is printed with super soft discharge graphics on premium 100% cotton tees with exclusive Volcano music download included!

• includes exclusive download card
• 100% cotton
• standard fit

King Jammy was the ruler of the dancehall during the 80's digital and computerized era. Riddim Driven recognizes this and represents with the original 80's King Jammy logo on limited edition shirts. Each shirt is printed with super soft discharge graphics on premium 100% cotton tees with exclusive Jammy's music download included!

• includes exclusive download card
• 100% cotton
• standard fit

The first installment of Karriem Riggins' Alone Together has hit the floor! The jazz drummer and hip-hop producer has worked with artists like Common, Slum Village, Talib Kweli and The Roots, and this collection of beats will show you why. The title Alone Together was taken from a jazz standard written by Arthur Schwartz and Howard Dietz that begins with the words, "Alone together, above the crowd." And Riggins firmly plants himself in that space, crafting beats that are uniquely his own. The tracks range from 14 seconds to a little over three minutes, and are the essence of man vs. machine. They stand at the intersection of jazz and hip hop; the jazz that Riggins has been playing professionally since the age of 19 and the beats he's been crafting on MPCs while on tour and at home. Like his longtime friend and fellow Detroit native, J Dilla, he's got beats for every day of the week and more. Recommended.

• Music Label: Stones Throw 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 08/2012

The "lonely stoner" comes back with his sophomore effort, The Man On The Moon II: The Legend Of Mr. Rager, and he sounds lonelier, more self-absorbed, and darker than ever. Featuring beats by Emile Haynie, Plain Pat, and Dot Da Genius, the album is divided into five acts with each act describing Kid Cudi's confrontations/dealings with fame, lots drugs, and himself. "Scott Mescudi Vs. The World" starts the album off with the G.O.O.D. Music rapper bragging about the world that he is "ruling" over a simple mid-tempo, strings-driven beat and Cee-Lo Green singing the hook. Next up is "Revofev" in which Cudi offers up his solution to the world's woes ("so high up and I like it - some how I feel okay") through simple and repetitive lyrics delivered using his trademark singing style. Mary J. Blige contributes vocals on "Don't Play This Song" as Mr. Solo Dolo opens up about the sides of fame and money that have been eating away at him constantly, and the lyrics become the focal point owing to the simple, stripped down beat. The only pop moment in the album comes courtesy of "Erase Me" featuring Kanye West, and the fresh, rock-inspired beat plays well with Kid Cudi's fun, "fucking around" lyrics. "Wild'n Cuz I'm Young" follows, and the rapper retreats back to the "deep downer" tone, which continues through the rest of the album with songs like "Mr. Rager" and "The End." Is The Legend Of Mr. Rager full of cuts you can play out? No. Is it better than The End of Day? It remains to be seen. What we can tell you is that Kid Cudi has brought us another impressive release that isn't formulaic or conventional, reminding us why he has been able to secure such a solid, dedicated fanbase. Double LP, gatefold cover with art direction/design by Kid Cudi. Recommended.

• music label: Universal Motown 2010

reviewed by nakinboots

If you ever dreamed of taking a time machine to the mid 90s, rocking the mic at some underground show at La Pena in Berkeley and then smoke a bidi, Dave Dub is gonna be your shit! Forced to play shows with stoner metal bands because he was just to far gone for the rest of the hip hop community in San Jose, Dave Dub never really got his due in the 90s. Although there was plenty of communication with the proto-Stones Throw crew Charizma and Peanut Butter Wolf, there was never any official deal, and Dub confined his particular brand of madness to cassette tape only. He disappeared from the scene after 92 and stopped caring about rap entirely. Eventually he headed to Jamaica to ride out Y2K (not a bad idea!) only to return to "San Hopeless." After nearly a decade apart he reunited with his original producer and collaborator, Tape Mastah Steph (who rumor has it that ex-Shipsetian Reals used to be roommates with). Steph convinced Dub to get back on the mic and return to the grit of his roots. The two created The Treatment using the tools they had back in the day - an SP-1200 and a vintage Ensoniq EPS. The results have a definite throwback feel that is reminiscent of the Bay Area underground scene of the 90s. However, Dave Dub's rhymes are more off kilter than the MCs of that era. The beats seem to have been conjured up out of some dark, murky swamp. The psychedelic hip hop of Dave Dub is a trip through the looking glass for any fan the underground West Coast scene.

• Music Label: Stones Throw 2012

reviewed by The Voice 06/2012

It's a meeting of the Adrians on vinyl for this limited Ubiquity RSD 12"! Arian Younge, who is best known for his funky work on the Black Dynamite OST and Venice Dawn, teams up with the prolific Adrian Quesada (of Echocentrics, Ocote Soul Sounds, Brownout and grammy-winning Grupo Fantasma) for a split EP of deep soulful cuts to move your mind, body and soul. When it comes to modern funk and soul with a classic aesthetic, these two are at the top of the food chain. Includes "The Love I Got" and "Last Word" with instrumentals for both on the flip. Limited to 1000 copies on deep indigo vinyl with free mp3 download card included.

music label: Ubiquity 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

Gil-Scott Heron is a legend. You might know of him from his revolutionary street poetry of the 70's, his influential spoken word albums, or maybe just heard about the hardships of his life and times in New York City. Anyway you look at it, his words have affected the lives of many, and here he is in the new decade of the new millennium, reaching out to a whole new generation of people with a brand new album. Plenty of artists go to retirement and comeback, but Gil-Scott Heron has really impressed with I'm New Here. His scuffed and often tired voice tells of the hardships he has dealt with over the many years in a soulful bluesy manner - sounding so experienced, yet fresh over the minimalist modern beats and sound-scapes. Can't really pick and choose tracks here - this is the type of album you have to enjoy as a whole, but if you want a couple standalone highlights check out "New York Is Killing Me," "I'll Take Care Of You," or "Me And The Devil." Powerful stuff. Recommended.

• Music Label: XL Recordings 2010

reviewed by snackmaster 04/2010

Yo La Tengo's sixth studio full-length, Painful, showcases the Hoboken, NJ band fusing its signature retro/noise rock foundation with dreamy, atmospheric soundscapess. Beautifully textured and melodic tracks like "Big Day Coming" and "Nowhere Near" sit alongside slightly heavier, distortion-driven "Double Dare" and "I Was The Fool Beside You For Too Long." Also check out "Sudden Organ" and a different, shoegaze-y version of "Big Day Coming." Recommended.

• Music Label: Matador 2011

reviewed by nakinboots 08/2011