Musica Bestsellers - All-Time

• housed in a "music box" case, that plays a snippet of "Oh Sh*t" when lid is opened
• includes (7) 7" records pressed on different colored vinyl + replica mini-jackets
• includes 5 previously unreleased tracks
• double CD with 24 rarities: 7 instrumentals, 5 acapellas, 6 remixes, and a bonus promo-only track
• 21" x 28" poster + 120 piece puzzle featuring iconic cover art
• detailed linear notes by J-Swift + never-before-seen vintage photos

You probably already own the original AND 20th Anniversary Edition of Paul's Boutique (and whatever came in between), but here is something is really, really, really special. Really. Limited to a thousand copies only, this 7" boxset concentrates on the rarer takes of "High Plains Drifter," "Shake Your Rump," "Hey Ladies," "Shadrach" and other killer cuts from Paul's Boutique. Live, demo, and instrumental versions make up the 8 COLORED 7-inches, and if you're a real Beastie Boys head, act quick because this will go FAST. Features a cice illustrated version of the original album work, highly recommended.

• music label: Paragon

reviewed by nakinboots 12/2011

Now in black! Small enough to fit in your pocket (about 3" tall), this mau5 is one of the coolest portable ipod speakers we've seen. Regardless of if you're into the mega producer's big room sound (I certainly am), it's hard to deny the appeal of the unique design, which is inspired by the titular costume head Deadmau5 wears while performing. Internal rechargeable battery (four to eight hours of usage after an hour or charging), includes audio cable, usb cable, multiple units can be linked to create better sound.

300 of the most essential and rarest drum breaks of all time remastered from the original records and ready for sampling and chopping. An impressive selection of timeless breaks including multiple versions  of "Get Out My Life Woman," and "Sing A Simple Song," staples like "It's A New Day" and "Ashley's Roachclip" and over 290 more rare and classic breaks. All The Breaks has done the hard part for you and trimmed these songs down to just the essential parts where you can chop and sample the kicks, snares, high hats, cymbals, and fills with ease. Whether you are making hip-hop or r&b or grime, All The Breaks is an excellent resource for finding the right drums for your tracks. Like Egon said: "Damn, they've just made it TOO EASY." Highly recommended.

Detroit's Tall Black Guy has been killing it on these beats re-work 7"s (see his Fela and D'Angelo release for more proof), and now he sets his sight on Al Green for some supremely soulful results. "Al Greens Dream" kicks it off on the smoothed out tip, first obliging us with the original sample, then showcasing TBG's beat skills (which are ridiculously on point). Next up, the ubiquitous "Love & Happiness" gets chopped and flipped for serious head nod biz. Big up to Brooklyn's BSTRD Boots for keeping the good stuff flowin'. Recommended.

• music label: BSTRD Boots 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2012

Here it is, M.I.A.'s highly anticipated 3rd album /\/\/\Y/\ on double 180g vinyl and 4 bonus tracks! As with her previous albums Arular and Kala, /\/\/\Y/\ aims to push boundaries, push buttons and blend genres (this time exploring territories like rock and dubstep). This is possibly her most controversial (and biggest?) album to date, backed by all-star production from a team of Lab favorites including Diplo, Rusko, Switch, Blaqtarr, and M.I.A. herself! You've probably heard the mixed reviews, but here's the sound samples so you can decide for yourself: the single "XXXO," "Steppin Up," "Teqkilla," "Lovalot," "Born Free," "Tell Me Why," Space," "Internet,"Illygirl,""Believer," "Caps Lock." 16 tracks total, recommended.

• music label: N.E.E.T. / 2010

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2010

Record Store Day 2012 exclusive! How perfect is this? Pretty In Pink on solid pink vinyl! An obvious move for 80's babies, nostalgists and retro film buffs. Plenty of big names on this OST including New Order, Psychedelic Furs, Echo & The Bunnymen, The Smiths, INXS, OMD, Suzanne Vega & Joe Jackson, and many more. Limited to 2000 copies worldwide so act quick!

• music label: A&M Records 1986/2012

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2012

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

Record Store Day 2012 Black Friday Exclusive! Alexandre Desplat and Mark Mothersbaugh come through with one of the most sought-after releases for RSD. This limited edition 10" features a selection of tracks from the original score of Moonrise Kingdom, each with a very magical, cinematic quality. Think Danny Elfman or a Tim Burton flick. 6 tracks in all, pic sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: ABKO 2012

reviewed by TKB 12/2012

"The game of chess is like a sword fight..." Get On Down comes correct with another incredible reissue job, this time taking GZA's "Liquid Swords" and packaging it with an actual chess set! The box converts into the chess board and a full set of wooden chess pieces are included for you to match wits with a friend while listening to one of the finest solo Wu efforts ever recorded. The original full CD version of Liquid Swords is included as well as an instrumental version, plus a booklet with extended liner notes chronicling the story of the GZA and the creation, inspiration, and legacy of the album. A must-cop for the Wu enthusiast! Recommended.

• music label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 06/2012

Whoa, new Dilla on Moodymann's Mahogani Music label? It's a no brainer! The much-anticipated Dillatroit album compiles unreleased/unheard Jay Dee production on limited edition wax. Some of the beats here can be heard on the recently released Rebirth Of Detroit, but this vinyl edition features instrumental versions that were not on the CD (and are superior IMO). All the beats here bump with that signature Dilla vibe, from the rough and raw "Birthright," "Feel This Shit," and "Ride Wit It," to the smooth and soulful "Lets Pray Together," "Dillatroit," "Mind Yo Business," and "Detroit Madness." 12 tracks in all with dope pic sleeve. One time pressing only! Highly Recommended.

• music label: Mahogani Music 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

As Lab customers, you know that when major label compilations advertise themselves as "rare grooves," it's not always true. That is most definitely not the case here. I don't even know where to start with this one. Here's the story: Rhino recently released a 4CD box set with an insane number of rare soul and funk tracks from the vaults of the Atlantic, Atco, Josie & Warner labels. What we have here is the companion set: a super limited edition (5,000 copies worldwide!) custom boxed set featuring 25 of the rarest tracks from the compilation, remastered and pressed in their original 7" formats, complete with their original B-sides. This thing is done proper, with reproduction sleeves and stickers just like the originals, but without the ridiculous price tags. At record shows or on eBay, you could expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $100 for mint copies of these 45s (with the majority here landing in the $20-$40 range), so while the price tag may look intimidating at first, it's actually a true bargain. Not to mention the music itself! Though you may know some of the names here already (The Commodores, Wilson Pickett, Little Richard, The Meters), the tracks selected for the big name artists are certainly not the most obvious or popular in their catalogs. This ain't no best-of. To dissect this thing further would take a very, very long time, but some of the highlights include: Funkadelic axeman Eddie Hazel with a stunning cover of The Mamas & The Papas' "California Dreamin'," The Gaturs' sunny "Cold Bear," Tony Alvon & The Belairs' blaxploitation soundtrack joint "Sexy Coffee Pot," Titus Turner's "His Funeral, My Trial" and The Beginning of the End's classic "Funky Nassau," parts 1 and 2. Comes in a custom-made 45 box with a handle and locking metal hinge. 

• music label: Rhino / 2006

reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red 11/2006

Two Dilla favorites back to back on 7" for this Record Store Day 2012 European exclusive. Up first is "Think Twice" off 2001's Welcome 2 Detroit album, while the Moroder-sampling "E=MC2" with Common takes the flip. Super limited import pressing, so don't get caught sleeping! Recommended.

• music label: BBE 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 06/2012

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

Now on colored vinyl! If you're not completely up to date on your Dilla crate, here's the perfect chance to fill in the gaps. The Jay Deelicious album compiles the harder to find Dilla productions, remixes and rarities made for esteemed hip-hop label Delicious Vinyl circa '95-'98. Of course you get classic Dilla produced originals for the Pharcyde ("Drop," "Runnin'," "Somethin' That Means Somethin'," etc.), but also a gang of less heard remixes for groups like The Brand New Heavies and N'Dea Davenport (with raps from Q-Tip and Mos Def to boot). Would be worth it just for these sleeper Dilla cuts, but you also get the instrumentals too! All this, AND it's on cherry red, clear, and white vinyl. Must have for the Jay Dee crate! Recommended.

• music label: Delicious Vinyl 2007/2012

reviewed by Cmish

Instrumental version of Elzhi's Illmatic tribute with all the beats replayed LIVE by Detroit's Will Sessions! Not taking anything away from Elzhi's raps (which are super on-point), but Will Sessions' renditions of these classic beats by Primo, Large Pro, Pete Rock and Q-Tip are just insane and pretty much make the album. The Motor City band has been rocking the live funk for years now (the players are affiliated with Detroit's infamous Funk Night party and record label and have played with everyone from Mayer Hawthorne, Slum village, Black Milk, Phat Kat, etc) and are more than well equipped to rock the funk. On first listen you might even think they are the regular instrumentals, but then the the beat will get extended or flipped and you're like "damn, this is all live!?". DJ Premier himself was even very impressed (see video below)! 10 tracks including "Detroit State of Mind," "Genesis," "One Love," "It Ain't Hard To Tell," "Halftime," etc. plus free download card. Full pic sleeve, pressed on 180g vinyl. Recommended.

• music label: Fat Beats

reviewed by Snackmaster 09/2011

No stranger to the edit, Kon (from Kon & Amir), drops two disco heaters on Basic Fingers. First up is a rework of the ultra rare "Chicago" from Windy City. It's a funky disco jam with a big chorus dedicated to its namesake city. The real treat here is on the flip though. Kon gets serious with the razor blade on Sylvester's "You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" and turns in a monster of an edit. He must have had access to some version of the masters. It's the only way he could have deconstructed the original Harvey Fuqua and squeezed something this good out of it! You are going to be hearing this everywhere. Recommended.

Here's a video with some sweet footage of NYC and a little of the Illvester.

• Music Label: Basic Fingers 2012

reviewed by The Voice 04/2012

This has been on heavy rotation in the Lab office ever since we got the promo a few months ago. It's one of those albums you can put on and know that every song is gonna be awesome, no fillers or skippers... basically, it rules. The album compiles the best releases from the Soul Cal label, which means you get the best rare soul and funky soulful disco cuts circa 1971 to 1982. You can bet that each and every song on here is dripping with that vintage soul goodness - the kind that puts a smile on your face and makes it seem like the sun is shining on you (even when the weather sucks outside). Check out some of the office favorites like Record Player's "Free Your Mind," Rhthym Machine's "Put A Smile On Time," Mixed Feeling's "Sha La La," Luther Davis' "You Can Be A Star," or just click on any of the samples - they're all that good! This deluxe release (both 2LP and CD) also comes with an 80 page full color companion book filled with rare photos and details each bands history. Essential purchase for the soul enthusiast. Highly Recommended.

• music label: Soul Cal 2012

reviewed by snackmaster 04/2012

Proper double vinyl version of Chromatics' Kill For Love. Kill For Love follows up 2010's Night Drive and continues the Chromatics journey into lands of emotive, 80's-inspired rock sounds. Johnny Jewel still handles production duties, and has fine tuned his craft with a careful balance of moody synths, analog drum machines, and melancholy guitars. He's pretty much mastered the sound by now, and with Ruth Radelet adding those smokey, love torn vocals, you've got the perfect soundtrack for a night drive to a secret rendezvous. Highlights include "Lady," "Back From The Grave," "Kill For Love," "These Streets Will Never Look The Same," "Matter Of Time," and "There's A Light Out On The Horizon." Includes 12" x 12" lyric sheet and free download card. Recommended.

• color vinyl note: please note, vinyl color is random: currently ivory and pink are randomly inserted
• music label: Italians Do It Better 2012

reviewed by TKB 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

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

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

Record Store Day 2012 Exclusive! The quintessential 80's movie spawns the quintessential 80's soundtrack. All your favorite tunes from The Breakfast Club are here on "dandruff" white vinyl. Features all the hits from Simple Minds ("Don't You Forget About Me"), Wang Chung ("Fire In The Twilight"), Karla DeVito ("We Are Not Alone"), and many more. Limited edition, individually numbered, special anniversary pressing.

• music label: A&M Records 1985/2012

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2012

Bastard Jazz does one up for the downtempo heads! Tempo Dreams is a true return to the downtempo sound for the esteemed Brooklyn-based label. The compilation is curated by Detroit's Tall Black Guy (who has been killing it lately on BSTRD BOOTS with his reworks of Fela and Al Green), who picks 11 of his favorite up and coming producers that are just under the radar and offer a fresh take on the downtempo style. You probably haven't heard of most of these youngins (which is a good thing), but you can trust that they're coming correct on the beats! Check the heady bumps on Teru's "Time To Reinvent," or Chief's "Scanner Revolution," while Tensei and Jeriko Jackson get jazzy on "Space Colony" and "Only Just" respectively. The whole thing is quality through and through with entries from Buscrates, FloydCheung, Doc Illingsworth, Ta-Ku, Evil Needle, MonkeyRobot, Shecky's Jazzy Tofu, and Tall Black Guy himself. Anyone who used to get down to Mo Wax, Ninja Tune, etc. will appreciate these new school takes on the style. Recommended.

• music label: Bastard Jazz 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 06/2012

Another meeting of the minds on wax. Burial and Four Tet are two names that need no introduction. Both have been at the top of their game for awhile now, and when they put their heads together, you can bet the result is gonna be something brilliant. "Nova" is their third collab 12" ("Moth/Wolf Cub" came before, and the first was with Thom Yorke) and once again the duo exceed expectations with a track that is melodic, ethereal, driving, and deep, all at once. Does this complete the trilogy? Only time will tell. Limited copies, pressed on one sided vinyl. Recommended.

• music label: Text Records 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Limited edition 180 gram 2LP reissue for Record Store Day 2013! Sigur Ros' breakout album took them to the top of the charts in Iceland and introduced the rest of the world to their unique sound. Here's your chance to get the much in demand album on deluxe 180 gram vinyl. It's been remastered especially for this reissue at Abbey Road!

• Limited edition 2LP reissue
• 1000 copies only
• music label: FatCat Records 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

The definitive MF Doom instrumentals set, period. Special Herbs: The Boxset Vol. 0-9 features the entire 10-volume Special Herbs series - never available on vinyl before - spread over 10 LPs (packaged in metallic silver jackets), and unlike the 3-CD set from a few years ago, the tracks are UNMIXED giving you the chance to enjoy each of the mysterious rapper/producer's creations in its original form. This deluxe boxset also includes a bonus 7" with two more beats from Metal Fingers, as well as an exclusive poster and a download card to get all the cuts in digital format. Needless to say, if you're a fan, you need to act quick. Highly recommended.

• music label: Nature Sounds

reviewed by nakinboots 02/2011

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

Beastie Boys, Santigold, and Major Lazer on the same track? That's a triple win for sure! Major Lazer (aka Diplo & Switch) gives a monster electro-dancehall bounce to the Beastie's hit "Don't Play No Game That I Can't Win." Obviously this version is designed to fully mash up the dancefloor. Also includes the Major Lazer dub on the flip. Oh yeah, did I mention it's on bright yellow vinyl? Don't miss it!

• music label: Mad Decent 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 03/2012

Diplo's massive new single on limited edition 7"! Ya'll should already know "Express Yourself" with its raw Bounce riddim that has been tearing it up all over the place for a minute now. That beat is just insane as is, but add Nicky Da B on mic duties and you got some undeniable club fiyah! And if that wasn't enough - the flipside features the unreleased bonus cut "Move Around" with dancehall legend Elephant Man & GTA, and it comes with fold out poster! Only 1000 copies so you better act fast, recommended.

• music label: Mad Decent 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

Super deluxe 180g double LP pressing of "Check Your Head." Best Beastie's album ever? I guess you can debate it, but there's no arguing that this one is definitely up there. I can go on about it, but better yet read what we said about it when we got an import pressing a couple years back: "Out of print for a while now, we jumped at this UK repress of my favorite Beasties album. That's right, fuck Paul's Boutique and Wesleyan College. The Beasties live the American dream here, picking up instruments and playing skater thrash band, badass black funk-rock band, and crafty city rappers, all at the same time. I'm not quite sure there's anything else quite like it. Even though I've gotten tired of the aging cult of Beastie, I still put this on when I want to get hyped up for heated recreational sports sessions (that's right chall!). Every track is standout, but if I have to assign those pesky blue numbers, it would go something like this:  "Jimmy James, Gratitude, Somethin's Got To Give, Stand Together," and "Groove Holmes." Double vinyl. Recommended." Worrd.

• music label: Capitol / 2009

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2009

This is one of the most respected dub albums of all time, featuring Augustus Pablo's finest instrumentals run through the King Tubby version machine. Many of the tracks are taken from Pablo's Jacob Miller sessions at the time, set off with the blistering double drum title track, listed here as "Braces Tower Dub." Tubby is really in the higher heights for these mixes, taking full control of each track, each moment. I have yet to hear any other dub LP which can match the unique sound achieved by them on this set. It gets no tougher than the wah guitar and bass intro on "Corner Crew Dub" The rhythms remain extremely rough throughout the album, highlighted by tunes like "555 Street Dub" and the strangely lovely Jacob Miller "Each One Dub." Fully remastered. Includes the full length album spread across three 10" pieces of vinyl, a 16 page book, and is housed in full color hinged box secured with a magnetic clasp.

• Music Label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 08/2005

Colm K reworks Steve Miller Band for the latest installment in the BSTRD Boots series. After killing it in 2010 with "Dancing Skulls," the Irish producer returns to the Brooklyn label for "Slipping (Into Tomorrow)" that incorporates that classic Steve Miller hook over some heavy drums and live bass. Flipside features the head noddin' beats of "Go" that deftly chops up bits from "The Look Of Love."

• music label: Bstrd Boots 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

Debut release from Andres' own freshly minted La Vida label. For those that don't recognize the name, Andres has been killing it for years now as a producer with releases on Moodymann's Mahogani and KDJ imprints to more recently with those MJ reworks on Spills. As DJ Dez, he's also respected as one of Detroit's finest DJ's (he's Slum Village's DJ too) working it behind the decks like no other. So really it should come as no surprise that with his first release on his own label, Andres comes through with that heat! On "New For U," Dez blends soulful strings with a bumping disco house groove to get the party feelin' right. Next up "Drama On The Corner" bumps with deep burning soul loops over tough, steppin' drums, while "Jazz Dance" turns it up one mo 'gin on a feel good jazzy house tip. Detroit represent! Recommended.

• music label: La Vida 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

A full album of Tribe x Pharcyde mash-ups from Amerigo Gazaway! Ya'll should remember Amerigo from his last mash-up effort Fela Soul, and here on Bizarre Tribe he puts those blending skills to work on classics from two legendary rap groups. The combination of Tribe and Pharcyde works perfectly like peanut butter & jelly as heard on "Runnin," (now with the beat of "Electric Relaxation") "Bonita Keeps Passin' Me By" ("Bonita Applebum" raps over "Passin Me By"), "Ya Mama And Stuff," and "Otha Otha Fish." The flawless mixing and matching of raps and beats makes every track on here a win-win situation. Think of these as classics that never were, from a parallel universe. Recommended for hip-hop heads and mashup fans alike.

• music label: Gummy Soul 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 12/2012

It's a match made in disco heaven. P&P Records is synonymous with the original disco sound (of Harlem to be exact), and who better to dig through the archives and compile and mix the best jams from their massive catalog? The one and only DJ Spinna! Ya'll should be familiar with Spinna's undeniable talent as a selector behind the decks, and this release is even more proof of the skills. For the mix version, Spinna runs through 21 P&P joints - from soulful groovers, uptempo movers, to disco breaks galore - all mixed and cut up to perfection. Seriously, this is how you do a disco mix people! Contains tracks from Cloud One, Ahzz, Karisma, Little Scotty, Queen Yahna, Louise Murray, Mary Clark, Marta Acuna, Golden Flamingo Orchestra, and many more. The double LP version contains 8 unmixed, full length versions of tracks from the mix that also happen to be some of the rarest P&P cuts from the catalog (check the insane unheard funk of the Michael Campbell and High Voltage joints, or the smooth chillout grooves of Cloud One). And if that wasn't enough, it's pressed up on bright pink vinyl! Disco heads will not want to miss this, recommended.

• music label: Five Day Weekend 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 04/2012

Recorded in 1973, Blackboard Jungle Dub is considered the first full-length dub album. Produced by Lee Perry, the godfather of reggae music as we know it, with the legendary King Tubby reportedly at the controls. If you listen closely, this would appear to be a stereo mix, but its not. Its two different mono channels. Each channel is mixed down in mono and then married to the other. Blackboard Jungle Dub prefaces future Upsetters' masterpieces like Super Ape and Return Of The Super Ape, and highlights the power of the mythical producer and his musicians. Includes large fold out poster of album artwork.

• Music Label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2012

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

Pizza! The Fat Boys self titled 1984 debut gets the deluxe reissue treatment! Once a sensation of 1980s culture The Fat Boys were early ambassadors of rap music. Buff Love's beatbox set the tone for their hard beats and hilarious lyrics. Their subject matter ran that gamut from over-eating to comic book characters and girls. With their innate sense of humor they rightfully earned the title The Clown Princes of Rap. It's awesome to see The Fat Boys career given its proper due with this more than appropriate pizza box reissue. Includes Pizza Picture disc vinyl housed in it's very own Pizza Box, 8-1/2" x 11" 20 page booklet and a download card for bonus material and interviews. Recommended for hip hop heads and avid vinyl collectors.

• music label: Tin Pan Apple 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 11/2012

Ultra-rare DJ promo pressing (MW 063 DJ). Single sided. Limited stock.

• music label: Mo Wax / 1996

reviewed by the mgmnt 01/2009

Yeah this is the one all the Flying Lotus fans have been waiting for to be reissued. This EP could be Flylo's finest moments, a excellent time stamp of the LA Beats Scene circa 2007. "Spicy Sammich" alone could be one of the greatest downtempo songs ever, if there were a category (who would judge?). This is a no brainer, recommended.

• music label: Warp 2007

reviewed by the mgmnt 08/2012

I really lost my shit when I first heard this. Heads in the know tell you that this their best, most complete album. No weaklings, just solid beats and lyrics like 2 day old shit. Excursions, Buggin Out, Rap Promoter, Butter, Verses From the Abstract, Show Business, Vibes and Stuff, The Infamous Date Rape, Check The Rhime, Everything Is Fair, Jazz (We Got), Skypager, What?, Scenario.

• music label: Jive / 1991

reviewed by the mgmnt 08/2005

Just as the clever title suggests, Fela Soul pairs De La Soul acapellas with Fela's afrobeat rhythms. Gummy Soul artist Amerigo Gazaway hand picks samples from the legendary Nigerian musician - expect lots of funky horn and guitar riffs - and layers them under verses from De La gems like "Stakes Is High," "Trouble In The Water," "Ooh," "Rock Co.Kane Flow," "Itsoweezee," and "Breakadawn," and the album offers a completely new way to enjoy classic sounds. 

• music label: Gummy Soul

reviewed by nakinboots 12/2011

5" vinyl? We've seen 8" records before, but this is defintitely a Lab first! Now for the music on this unique piece of wax... you already know Doom brings it on the mic, and on "3 Dollars" he delivers and then some over a smoldering beat courtesy of Oh No (who also flexes his lyrical prowess). They ain't playin' on this one! Comes in a double sided pic sleeve with Doom and Oh No illustrated by Charles Munka. Recommended.

• music label: Five Day Weekend 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 06/2012

Red Astaire returns to the label that made him famous. When the needle drops, you'll be warped back to early 2000. Two b-boy style, bouncy breakbeat tracks inhabit the A-side while the B-side conceals two signature Red mashes. Black Moon's "How Many Emcees" gets an age-approriate smokey beats rework (Walt would nod in approval), and Bob gets a modern dub seaweed wrap. Loving the red vinyl pressing too, recommended.

• music label: GAMM 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2012

SBTRKT, the mysterious (masked) purveyor of cutting-edge dance sounds, drops his self-titled debut album on Young Turks. The London-based producer's signature sound - swinging, future-garage-infused bass music - has been showcased through a handful of EPs, singles, and collaborations, but regarding the full-length, he says: "This release is the culmination of a longer period of constant writing and collaboration, tracks on previous EPs were written as singular pieces. This record is much more of a whole project, more representative of my thoughts and ideas as an artist and each track was completed with the aim to be coherent together." Check how well the achy vocals mash with the tone of the instrumental on "Hold On." The subtle and sophisticated rhythms and melodies of "Right Thing To Do" as well as the dramatic synths and tribal percussion of "Never Never" are also memorable, but really, there is not a filler in this 12-tracker, so do yourself a favor and grab the album. Highly recommended.

• music label: Young Turks

reviewed by nakinboots 07/2011

Lab store doods have been sprouting DJ wood over super-duo TNGHT (Hudson Mohawk + Lunice) for a minute now. I must admit it's pretty cool, a great example of a "creative collaboration". Kinda reminds me of old 45rpm rave records played at 33pm (I had this Suburban Base record that I would play at 33 even though it was meant for 45). As a big proponent of negative space, I love all the vacuous pockets on these tracks, just makes the bass POP more. Yeah, this is stoner music at the highest level... put a pillow by the speaker and have that fruity drink within arms reach. Recommended.

• music label: Warp/Luckyme 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 08/2012

Yikes... there's so much hype around this particular 45 since a VG- original copy sold for $3,826.77. When you get onto that pricing level, you'll always get doubters, but this sound is MEAN... BOTH SIDES. "The Unforgiven" gives me that priceless, lower belly grumbling. Love those vocals. "Theme From Movietown Sound" has that rare soul-funk formula down: gritty melodic instrumentation (sounds like something RZA would touch) and nasty break that appears twice. This clean repress probably won't be around for long. Recommended.

• music label: International Hits 1972 / 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2012