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# 1
    • "Diplo's mutant dancehall sound"
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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
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# 2
    • "electronic pop music evolved"
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Double 180g pressing! Random Access Memories is easily one of the most anticipated releases in recent memory, and Daft Punk deliver in aces on all the hype. For their long awaited 4th studio album (the latest since 2005's Human After All), Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo call in legends of pop music history to help them create their most epic and ambitious work to date. From pioneering hit maker Nile Rodgers and synth icon Giorgio Moroder, to more recent super talents like Pharrell Williams, Panda Bear, and Chilly Gonzalez, Daft taps them all and take their sound to a whole new level with live instrumentation and complex arrangement - an evolution in electronic pop music. You probably already have "Get Lucky" with Pharrell and Nile on mental repeat, but checkout the funked out bump of "Doin' It Right" with Panda Bear," the arpeggio-laced disco odyssey that is "Giorgio By Moroder" featuring you know who, "Touch" and the throwback 80's vibe of "Fragments Of Time" with Todd Edwards. Smooth and sophisticated stuff throughout with the signature vocoder thrown in at just the right times. 13 tracks spread over two heavyweight LPs, housed in gatefold sleeve with booklet insert and download card. Recommended.

  • music label: Columbia 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 3
    • "jacking house, nuff said"
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Pure bass fiyah! This 12" is probably better known as Think And Change: Plate One as it's the first installment in Nonplus Records' Think And Change series. The label, headed by Boddika, has been releasing heaters for the past 4 years and brought it all back together with the Think And Change boxset. So it makes sense that Boddika kicks off the series along regular collaborator, Joy Orbison. The duo, both alone and together, has been demolishing dancefloors for the past few ears and &Fate is no exception. After building up to an extended break semi-truck sized bass line drives the jacking affair home. Once you've had your fill with that one, Lowtec subdues you with a droning tune that is punctuated by incessant bass stabs. It's all in the details on that one, but seriously, this 12" is all about the A side.

  • music label: Nonplus Records 2013
reviewed by Hank Ohs 05/2013
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# 4
    • "edits of classic house + balearic gems"
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Moton coming through with that edit heat! For those unfamiliar, Moton emerged as a premier edit label sometime in the early 2000's (way before the current edit craze). The track selection on these joints is always superior than most, often cherry picking from a wide and eclectic range of deep cuts that work both on and off the dancefloor. This one by Diesel and Jarvis is no different, featuring a tasteful and super effective re-edit of a Lil Louis & The World house classic that's sure to rock any discerning dancefloor. Worth it for this one alone, but the flipside offers the perfect balance with the chilled balearic disco vibes of "Dog." Chalk up another winner from Moton! Originally released for RSD 2013, recommended.

  • music label: Moton Records Inc. Classics 2013
reviewed by TKB 05/2013
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# 5
    • "expertly crafted sample based house"
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Hot on the heels of their first pair of singles comes a little more disco madness from The Rhythm Odyssey & Dr. Dunks! "Fox" plays like chopped up disco samples put to expert use by the duo. There's more than meets the eye here, though. They squeeze every last ounce out of those samples and reduce them to their bare bones necessities, making dancefloor fruit that's ripe for the picking. The version takes things a step further, delivering a pulsing rhythm covered in washes of reverbed samples. It all breaks towards the end to bring the party up a few notches.

  • music label: Golf Channel Recordings 2013
reviewed by Joey Coco 05/2013
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# 6
    • "new disco summer anthem"
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Summer anthem 2013? In what looks to be the summer of new disco summer jams, LA duo Classixx have multiple anthem-potential songs from their new full length. "Holding On" was the first to drop and had the early lead before getting elbowed by those French guys (but that's some good company, no?). Impressive remix pack included with reworks by Lifelike, Jerome LOL, and Losoul.

  • music label: Innovative Leisure 2013
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 7
    • "deluxe collection of the work of a pioneering electronic musician"
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Massive repress! Originally released in on CD 2007, Oramics collected the compositions of former co-founder and director of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop, Daphne Oram, particularly that of her post BBC experimental work. Designed in 1957, Oramics (along with being the name Oram used to refer to her studio and business interests generally) is a drawn sound technique that involves drawing on 35mm film strips to control the sound produced. Oram further developed the process in 1962 after receiving a grant from the Gulbenkian Foundation. She would draw shapes on the film that would create a mask, which modulated the light received by photocells. Along with developing the instrument and becoming the first woman ever to design and build an electronic musical instrument, Oram produced a large and intriguing body of work. Of course there is her early material for the BBC, but there is much more to it than that. Oramics brings together 44 compositions from the pioneering electronic musician. It is material that is as varied as it is groundbreaking. The pieces range from classic playful interludes and commercial recordings to beautiful, immersive pieces. They all tend to feature her penchant for introspective and multi-layered material that proved that there could be depth in a field that many had yet to master. You can still hear Daphne Oram's influence in music that is being made today. Limited edition clear vinyl 4LP pressing housed in a deluxe gatefold sleeve full of archival photographs.

  • music label: Young Americans 2013
reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013
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# 8
    • "deep psych jazz fusion"
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Whoa, trippy mane. The debut album from The Sign Of Four is here on Jazzman and it's quite the brain melter. Imagine the most spaced-out library record fused with raw jazz breaks and swirling psychedelics and you can kinda get what's going on here (yea, it's pretty heavy). Hammer, Anvil, Stirrup is actually the latest side project from Natural Yogurt Band's Miles Newbold who is obviously no stranger to crafting mind-expanding musical excursions, and recorded the whole album live with real musicians and instruments. Check the sound on "Morphine," "Topsy Turvy," "Fruit Juice For Everyone," "Sun Suite" and "Morocco" for a taste. 11 tracks spread over two 10"s with hand printed sleeve. Fans of Heliocentrics, Malcolm Catto, or Gaslamp Killer must check. Recommended.

  • music label: Jazzman 2013
reviewed by TKB 05/2013
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# 9
    • "future retro french electro"
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Aww yeah. Just got re-upped on Kavinsky's dramatic debut EP from 2006 on Record Makers. If you liked the stuff on the 1986 EP, you NEED to get with this. He's got that future-retro-Out Run-Moroder sound on lock. Check out the original "Testarossa Autodrive" and "Testarossa Nightdrive." It's all about the driving mood created by the arpeggiator shit and the hard rockin' guitars. Too cool. The EP also features a couple remixes from Mr. Oizo and Arpanet. Oizo tweaks the shit out of "Autodrive T42" and guillotine chops it into a straight up jackin' monster, while Arpanet give "Nightdrive" a spooky, Detroit Grand Pubah-ish rework that truly fits Kavinsky's living dead persona. And if that wasn't enough, the EP also features a few lo-fi interlude tracks that are actually really dope in their own right (kinda wish they were longer!). It's pretty obvious why Daft chose this dude to tour with. Recommended.

  • music label: Record Makers 2006
reviewed by snackmaster 08/2007
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# 10
    • "limited hardcover vinyl book version w/ extras"
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Super deluxe hardbound book version of Kavinsky's phenomenal debut full length! This limited version of Outrun comes housed in a stunning hardbound vinyl book with glossy cover, printed cardboard inner sleeves, 16 page full color booklet, and 4 movie style lobby cards depicting Kavinsky and his killer ride. It's the most impressive version of the album you can get, and it's limited to 4500 pieces so be quick! Here's what we said about it when the regular version dropped earlier this year... Kavinsky has spent his career shrouded in mystery. He came to our attention in 2006 as a zombie who had died after crashing his Testarossa 20 years earlier. With the success of Nicolas Winding Refn's Drive Kavinsky reached a wider audience when his Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo produced, Lovefoxxx featuring "Nightcall" became the theme song for the movie. This is all too fitting as his music is inspired by thousands of movies he watched as a young boy. OutRun is Kavinsky's first proper full length, and features reworks of a few previously released tunes as well as a bevy of new material. For those that have been along for the ride since the beginning the themes are familiar, but there are twists and turns that keep the journey more than interesting. From the title itself, which references the Ferrari Testarossa featuring Sega arcade game of the same name, to the heavy Jan Hammer influence OutRun feels like a missing piece of the Kavinsky story. There are some surprising moments such as the Havoc (yes that Havoc) featuring "Suburbia" and the 80s soundtrack anthem "First Blood." Surprising as they may be those songs still fit firmly into the Kavinsky mold. Another chapter in the legacy of a zombie that we are only just getting to know.

  • music label: Record Makers 2013
reviewed by Michu Meszaros 03/2013
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# 11
    • "psyche rock with remixes"
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Quite the interesting pairing up of remixers here. Tame Impala's Lonersim jam "Mind Mischief" is treated to two inspiring takes that each offer something completely different. Ducktails seem like an apropos choice to take on Tame Impala's psychedelic fair as they tend to swim in what is relatively the same stream. The New England lo-fi protagonist adds a little modern flair to the OG, beefing up the drums and pushing the overall droney-ness of the song. A more far out choice to take on "Mind Mischief" is Swedish minimal techno producer, The Field. However, there should be know doubt that he would know exactly what to do with the track. It's all swirling chords held together by a metronomic beat, just the perfect antidote to bring your head in from the clouds.

  • music label: Modular Recordings 2013
reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013
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# 12
    • "debut from NYC duo, now on blue + orange vinyl"
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The debut full length from Alex Frankel and Nick Millhiser better known as Holy Ghost! now on double colored vinyl! After dropping the killer "Hold On" way back in 2007 they quickly became in demand, remixing everyone from Cut Copy and MGMT to Moby. It was easy to see why back then, and this album makes it even easier. From the opener "Do It Again" it's clear that they have spent their time behind the boards honing their craft. There is a ton of surefire dance floor fillers here and the sound does not feel overstuffed with unnecessary bells & whistles. I can easily see most of the tracks being played back live to a room full of head over heels ladies. Holy Ghost! have always seemed to straddle the line between revivalist 80s pop-funk and throw back disco to me. There's touches of Steely Dan and The Doobie Brothers as well as Gary Numan and a little "Safety Dance". And speaking of the Doobie Brothers, they even got Michael McDonald to drop guest vocals on one of the songs (Some Children)! With songs like "Wait And See", "It's Not Over" and "Slow Motion" you can bet you'll be hearing a lot of this record for the rest of the summer and beyond. 10 tracks spread over 2LPs, now housed in gatefold sleeve with full color inserts with tons of photos of their studio and of (pretty much) the entire DFA posse. One blue, one orange vinyl (NY baby!). Recommended.

  • music label: DFA 2012 / 2013
reviewed by The Voice 08/2011
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# 13
    • "modern soul and beats"
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Restraint. That's what I think makes this album so great. On the hit singles, "Wildest Moment" and "Running", you expect Jesse Ware (yeah, the same vocalist on SBTRKT's album) to have a Dawson's Creek moment where she's yelping and flexing her white chops in the last quarter of the song. That moment never comes and I'm thankful. Stays in the cut (ed.note: after repeated listens, there is indeed some DC moments). I recently absorbed the entire album on a road trip and by the end, I had a Soul II Soul taste in my mouth… not so much "Back II Life" but more "Keep On Movin" with its wandering, breaky sound. Masterful modern production by Dave Okumu, Julio Bashmore, and Kid Harpoon (a distant cousin to  Malay's work on Channel Orange). PS, Jessie, lose the heavy make-up, you look much hotter au naturale. Recommended.

  • music label: Cherrytree / Interscope 2013
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 14
    • "Madlib samples and covers Blue Note"
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So cool that this is still around on vinyl. In early 2000, Blue Note invited Madlib to re-imagine its catalog. He put out both a compilation ("Untinted") and this album of reworks and sample-based productions. The result is a perfect blend of Madlib's hip-hop chops and YNQ's jazz thing, definitely one of Madlib's best albums from any alias. Madlib's left-heavy brain is in full effect as the pieces he chooses to sample or re-create are not the ordinary Blue Note bacon and eggs (even the "Song For My Father" is counter-intuitive in its non-hip-hop-ness). I love how he flips "Andrew Hill Break" and tackles something so epic as re-creating "Stepping Into Tomorrow." So many great moments here. Recommended.

  • music label: Blue Note 2003
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 15
    • "classic Trane album, high quality repress"
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Coltrane's only official Blue Note release during his lifetime, and many say his best all around album. Although I prefer Love Supreme in its soulful experimentation and breaking of standard jazz ideals, Blue Train and Giant Steps are my favorite Trane albums within the standard Jazz boundary (it's an easy call for the newbie and advanced listener). The intro to the first self titled track is an all-time classic entrance. Then Trane busts the curtains playing faster than the speed of our thought. Many say this is also some of the best work of trumpeter Lee Morgan, bassist Paul Chambers, and Drummer "Philly" Joe Jones as Trane shares the spotlight on all of the tracks equally. Many call it essential, but we'll settle for damn good. High quality 180 gram pressing, includes free CD of the album with bonus tracks as well.

  • music label: Blue Note 2008
reviewed by the mgmnt 11/2005
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# 16
    • "essential hard bop and modal jazz album"
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What are you planning to do when you turn 24? What were you doing? Sitting on your couch, playing video games and loading up the four footer? How about Herbie Hancock? He wrote this music and recorded this record when he was 24. Maybe he smoked a little weed, too. If you are trying to impress someone (like yourself), you are doing pretty well to buy Maiden Voyage. Talking about the music on here is like talking about breathing. Yes, it's good – and there's nothing more to say. It captures 5 virtuosic and brilliant musicians at the height of their powers. If you don't know this, or you don't like it, there's just no words really besides I'm sorry. High quality 180 gram pressing, includes free CD of the album as well.

  • music label: Blue Note 2008
reviewed by Joey Coco 05/2013
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# 17
    • "moody tripped-out hip hop"
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Third studio full length from Mr. Rager himself, Kid Cudi! After killing it with two installments of Man On The Moon and then venturing into rock zones on 2012's WZRD project with Dot Da Genius, Scott Mescudi (aka Kid Cudi) returns with dark, tripped out raps on Indicud. You already know Kid Cudi flips it on the weird and moody side of things, and here he definitely lives up to his rep with raps AND production (Kid Cudi's on beats!) that only "lonely stoner" could deliver. Kudi impressively handles the production here (with a little help from Hit-Boy and Dot Da Genius on a few tracks), while the list of guest spots range from hyped contemporaries like Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Rocky, and King Chip, to rap legends like RZA and Too $hort, and even Michael Bolton(!) on a hook. Highlights include "Just What I Am," "Young Lady," "Solo Dolo Pt. II," "NYC Rage Fest," "Brothers," and "Afterwards." Triple vinyl version housed in gatefold sleeve designed by Kid Kudi himself.

  • music label: Republic 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 18
    • "diverse hip hop from Brooklyn MC"
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Talib Kweli is back! Prisoner Of Conscious is the Brooklyn rapper's 5th solo effort, and is a slight departure from his previous works in terms of style. Taking the title as a hint, it seems Kweli is breaking out of the "conscious rap" umbrella he's been under since the days of working with Mos Def, Hi-Tek, and even Madlib. Not to say his impeccable flow isn't intact (in fact, it sounds better than ever), but here he's branching out and collaborating with a broader ranger of artists, and even including some radio-friendly joints in the mix! Check some of the more surprising collabs like "Push Thru" with Kendrick Lamar & Curren$y, "Come Here" with Miguel, and "Before He Walked" with Nelly, while tracks like "High Life" with Rubix & Bajah and "Favela Love" with Seu Jorge incorporate eclectic world influence via Nigerian and Brazilian vibes. The rest of the tracks stay solid with production from hip-hop heavyweights like Oh No, RZA, Sean C & LV, and more. 15 tracks over 2 LPs housed in gatefold sleeve with artwork from Staple and Haze.

  • music label: Javotti Media 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 19
    • "limited pressing, includes live version"
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Special release for Record Store Day 2013! We've been big fans of Rhye since we first heard "Open." The combination of expertly produced backing tracks and androgynous vocals was pretty much undeniable. With this 12" you get three servings of the track that deliver a satisfying meal for your ear. The OG still hits in all the right places, while the instrumental will give you a chance to let your inner vocalist out. The real treat here is the live version which presents a more subdued take of the track. A mellow string intro leaves plenty of space for the song to develop. It's well worth the price of admission.

  • music label: Polydor Limited 2013
reviewed by Joey Coco 05/2013
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# 20
    • "dark, brooding synth pop"
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If you somehow managed to miss the fervor over this LP from Swedish duo The Knife when it was released back in 2006, take a minute to get familiar. Most people, from hipsters to frat guys, know the group's song "Heartbeats," but don't expect to hear anything like that Silent Shout. Instead, dark synth pop and techno is on the menu du jour. Karin Dreijer Andersson's super creepy vocals dominate the record, and it's important to note that she's the only vocalist on the album. Her brother Olaf handles the arrangements, but Karin provides all of the vocal sounds with the aid of filters, pitch shifters, and vocoders. Check the title track for a particularly great example of how her vocals are able to provide some really eerie tones. "We Share Our Mother's Health," is probably the most floor-ready single from the record, but the rest of it is pretty dark and sparse, ideal for headphones and home stereos. Check out "Neverland," "The Captain," "Na Na Na," "Marble House," and "Like A Pen," for more standouts. Solid album from top to bottom, considered by many to be a modern classic. Recommended.

  • music label: Mute 2006
reviewed by Hires 08/2010
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# 21
    • "1995 electronica classic"
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The Brothers gonna work it out. Undoubtedly, the best album the Chemical Brothers ever made.Collecting their earlier work as the Dust Brothers and new material at the time, Exit Planet Dust remains a masterclass in sequencing. Listening to it from beginning to end creates the same feeling from when it first came out in 1995. Sure, the breakbeats have aged a bit, but you still can't deny juxtapositions like "Chemical Beats" (probably my favorite Bros track along with "Dope Coil") and comedown songs "Chico's Groove" and "One Too Many Mornings."

  • music label: Astralwerks 1995 / 2008
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 22
    • "deluxe reissue of dub reggae classic"
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The Scientist got his start working as an engineer for King Tubby. From there he went on to become one of the pioneers of dub reggae along with Tubby. He quickly developed his own style, settling for tracks with an inherent groove while applying the drops and reverb tweaks in all the right places. Scientific Dub is like a journeyman's guide to dub. There's a heavy dose of soulful moments as the roots tracks are fed through the Scientist's mixer. The addition of reggae heavyweights like Sly & Robbie, and Agustus Pablo doesn't hurt either. One of the particular standouts is Scientist's dub of The Tamlins' "Baltimore." All of the tracks are worth turning your attention to, though. A must have release for any reggae fan. Includes the full length album plus two bonus tracks spread across three 10" pieces of vinyl in red, green and gold; housed in full color hinged box secured with a magnetic clasp. Limited to 2,000 copies.

  • music label: Clocktower Records 2013
reviewed by Joey Coco 05/2013
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# 23
    • "definitive southern funk comp"
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This ranks up there in the best comps ever to come through The Lab. Hell, might even be the best. As timing goes, Soul Jazz released this definitive collection right at the height of the New Orleans funk revival in early 2000. It peaked interest to another level and served as an easy and proper introduction to a regional genre that was once protected by $100 Meters records and even pricier Eddie Bo 7"s. Yeah, running down the tracklist is a lesson in foundational funk: The Meters, Eddie Bo, Lee Dorsey, Aaron Neville, Allen Toussaint, and much more. So many explosions on here, this will get the most hardened collector acting like a newbie who found his first James Brown original. 24 tracks on double vinyl, highly recommended.

  • music label: Soul Jazz 2000
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 24
    • "essential compilation of the avant-disco mastermind's classics"
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The long-awaited compilation of tracks from left-field disco genius Arthur Russell has finally arrived from Soul Jazz, and despite a few minor reservations that only a confirmed disco nerd like myself could have, it's well worth the wait. Russell was a classically-trained cellist and composer steeped in the American experimental avant-garde tradition of composers like Philip Glass. He made some of the most compelling, challenging, and beautiful dance music ever committed to record after being turned on by visits to NYC clubs like the Loft, Gallery, and Paradise Garage. "Go Bang," recorded as Dinosaur L is present here in the superior Francois mix, is perhaps one of the most simultaneously atonal, dissonant, and funky records to ever become a dancefloor favorite– a maelstrom of near-free jazz dirty Rhodes chords and a driving four to the floor beat propelling ominous, desperate declarations that "I want to see all my friends at once/I wanna go bang!" It was a big Paradise Garage favorite, and its dark, druggy and sexy vibe was hugely influential to early house tracks like Sleazy D's "I've Lost Control." Russell's most well known track, Loose Joints' "Is It All Over My Face," shouldn't require too much of an introduction here, and if it does, just read my dissertation in the 12" review (I expect your 5-page paper with annotated sources next week, Spasticon). One of the greatest dance records ever, period. What distinguishes Russell as an artist (and further endears him to collectors) is the fact that he was also capable of creating softly beautiful tracks like "Keepin' Up," "In The Light Of The Miracle," and "Let's Go Swimming;" tracks that successfully integrated his interest in dance music with experimental, often minimalist compositions. "In The Light Of The Miracle" is one of the prizes of this collection; originally available on a stupid-rare promo-only pressing, "Miracle" is a serenely gorgeous, airily restrained 13-minute epic that defies categorization or description. Also includes essential, tough–to-find gems like "Pop Your Funk" (see 12" review), and "Wax The Van." The few minor complaints I have (the omission of Russell's first release, "Kiss Me Again" by Dinosaur, lack of material from the rare "World Of Echo" LP, weird track sequencing) are completely mollified by the dearth of brilliant material here, and the sheer value that the collection gives. Highly, highly recommended. 11 tracks spread over 3 LPs.

  • music label: Soul Jazz Records 2009
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2005
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# 25
    • "landmark 1959 jazz album "
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It's been called a landmark session, the best jazz album of all time, one of the greatest musical works of the 20th century… and with good reason. This is Miles Davis as the king of the straight jazz album. The sound floats without any bumps, no challenges to your intellect, just baby food for your brain. Or maybe it's like an aged-porterhouse with 2 side dishes ordered from a menu with no other choices. Recorded late in 1959, the lineup is the strongest of his career with a young dueling John Coltrane on tenor sax, a complimentary Cannonball Adderly on alto sax, Bill Evans on piano, James Cobb drums, and Paul Chambers bass. Essential and recommended.

  • music label: Columbia Records 1959 / 2011
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 26
    • "Tribe's 4th album, Dilla production"
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The fourth Tribe album from 1996 in its original double vinyl, pic sleeve format. These days this album is most noted for the rise of Jay Dee (aka J Dilla) & The Ummah on production plus the presence of Consequence (aka Q-Tip's cousin) guesting on several tracks. Like anything Tribe post-Marauders, this album sounds a bit removed from the pressure of the nineties, but still bumps from beginning to end. Check out: "Get A Hold," "Jam," "1nce Again" with Tammy Lucas, "The Hop," "Phony Rappers" and "Stressed Out" with Faith Evans. 15 tracks total.

  • music label: Jive 1996
reviewed by the mgmnt
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# 27
    • "historic double album of punk rock"
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Staple office Lab listening right 'chere. Double album? What a lost art. The Clash weave in and out of rockabilly, punk, and reggae / ska, decades before humanity formed synapses that could understand "open format" music. Truly timeless and a must have in any collection. Excellent double vinyl pressing. Rudie can't fail… recommended.

  • music label: Sony BMG 1979 / 2004
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 28
    • "pogo punk for the 20 somethings"
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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
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# 29
    • "hard hitting rock n roll from the atlanta based experimental rockers"
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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
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# 30
    • "Detroit style house burners"
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Germany's Motor City Drum Ensemble, along with Prime Numbers, is greatly responsible for the recent, worldwide push of Detroit-style dance music by non-natives. Inspired by Theo Parrish and Moodymann, MCDE is releasing some of the most in-demand 12" and remixes in the spirit of the masters. Nearly everything I've heard from this guy has been spot on. It's great to have his second Raw Cuts release from 2008 back in print featuring tracks #3 & #4. Two burners in the Detroit edit stylee...

  • music label: MCDE 2008
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2013
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# 31
    • "clear vinyl pressing of what is arguably considered to be the first house track"
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This is arguably the first house track to be pressed on wax. House pioneer Jesse Saunders used to play Mach's highly influential "On & On" all the time until his copy got stolen. The original "On & On" is a highly sought after 12" released back in 1980 and is one of the earliest blends, putting drops from Donna Summer's "Bad Girls" and Lipps Inc's "Funky Town" over Playback's "Space Invaders" beat. After his copy wen missing, Saunders decided to recreate the track and press it up himself, thus making one of the first house records! Saunders' "On & On" is not necessarily a faithful recreation, but a creative interpolation that went on to birth something entirely new. Peep the vocal drops, 808 programming and crafty synth work to get a taste of what I'm talking about. There's a reason people keep referring to this as the first house track even if it might not be accurate. Limited edition clear vinyl pressing. Recommended.

  • music lable: Rush Hour Recordings 2013
reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013
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# 32
    • "magical meeting of Marley and Perry circa 70-71 "
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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
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# 33
    • "jazz inflected house, remastered"
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If there was a mainstay, a workhorse of every chill out, lounge compilation of the late 90s / early 2000s era it was St Germain. The project of Frenchman Ludovic Navarre originally began as part of the early wave of French Touch producers. Over the course of a few EPs Navarre moved from the filtered house that helped spawn the likes of Daft Punk and DJ Falcon towards a more jazz and dub influenced style. House music was still a big part of his 1995 full length, Boulevard, but it was as if he had stumbled on something completely different. Working with live musicians he was able to weave together the disparate strains of jazz and house, and add his contribution to what would become known as acid jazz. Five years later, following a relatively quiet period, St Germain returned with Tourist. Now on Blue Note, with acid jazz in full swing, things were falling into all of the right places. And even though I keep saying acid jazz, please don't take it the wrong way. The material featured on Tourist has aged remarkably well. Far from being the gimmicky sax solo over house beat, the music is produced and arranged with skill. Many of the tracks would not be out of place in a Theo Parrish mix. The opener, "Rose Rouge," sets the stage for everything that is to follow. It takes its time to develop and that is part of the quality of the track. Given the standard that was set with Tourist it is no surprise that it still sounds so good today. Remastered, high quality 180 gram double LP.

  • music label: Blue Note 2012
reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 05/2013
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# 34
    • "deluxe reissue of kraftwerk's celebration of cycling"
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Much in the same way that Europeans can get a good idea of Americans by watching "Independence Day," so too can we Americans get a pretty good idea of Germans by watching "Run Lola Run." That whole "we live in a perfect robot society where all the clocks are in sync and we're also kind of stuck-up, but WWII kind of humbled/weirded us out (see also the Japanese)" kind of thing says a lot to those of us who want a quick easy stereotype. Kraftwerk does little to contradict this stereotype, with their obsession of all things modern and machine-based. I'm sure you've heard "Tour De France" at some point in your life by now, so I can't tell you much that you don't already know: heavy breathing, electro boom slaps and an ethereal melody laced on top… kinda like Serge Gainsbourg starring in "Tron." I mention this because 3 years ago I made a tape using the original at 33 over a Bjork remix. Remixing remixes! I was up on that mash-up s*&t way before! Plus I had "Ain't Hard To Tell" over "Close To Me," and Pete said it was "too obvious." Now we sell that ODB mash-up. WTF?!!!). Deluxe heavyweight pressing (feels close to 180g?) including 16 page booklet insert with stills from the Tour De France video.

  • music label: Kling Klang 2009
reviewed by the woodman 05/2005
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# 35
    • "landmark album from Madlib's jazzier alias"
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Angles Without Edges was one of the albums that cemented Madlib's creative genius and depth of skill. His ease of working in the studio is fully on display. Here's what the mgmnt had to say when it first came out: After releasing what seems like an endless stream of eps, singles and 7"s in the last year or so, we finally get a full length of the Yesterdays New Quintet Madlib. This is like if the rhythm section and the laidback key man just went on a trip and told the band leaders and to fuck off. The sound is led by Rhodes, Arps, and synths, drenching it in a pool of warmth and vibes over lazy day drums. The standout for most will be the cover of "Daylight." Fuzzy, bass heavy and without the vocals of the RAMP version, just as you want it. Madlib shows quite a bit of range in style, moving through tunes as slow and sweet as "Broken" straight into Organic Grooves-ready material like the cover of "Sun Goddess," all of which is kept level with short Pete Rock style interludes. The general feel of the album is so well meshed that it gets hard to find where you left off and which song is the one you like. But that's easy- you like all of them. Or you don't like it at all. 16 tracks total, plus interludes.

  • music label: Stones Throw Records ‎2001
reviewed by the mgmnt 2001
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# 36
    • "banging Detroit house and techno"
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Detroit is in the house! What more can you say when 3 Chairs are on deck? The quartet of seasoned producers is back with the four track Demigods EP. It's interesting because you can hear the touch of Theo Parrish, Kenny Dixon Jr, Rick Wilhite and Marcellus Pittman throughout the record. Whether it's the minimalism of Pittman as witnessed in the title track or the looseness of Theo in "Celestial Contact," each of them seems to have their way within the tracks. Demigods is a masterclass in Detroit style production. On a side note, I'm always impressed with the way the Detroit producers have been able to keep a hold on their music (the numerous KDJ bootlegs floating around not withstanding). They pretty much all have their own labels, or release each other's music. And they've created the Three Chairs label just for these releases. Seems to be working well for them. Don't sleep.

  • music label: Three Chairs 2013
reviewed by Joey Coco 05/2013
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# 37
    • "rare Dilla beats unearthed!"
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Turn it up! Another incredible collection of Dilla beats released by Mahogani Music (aka Moodymann's label). Lost Tapes, Reels, and More picks up right where 2012's Dillatroit left off and compiles 20(!) Jay Dee beats, many taken from later in Mr. Yancey's career (complete with the signature siren and everything). Not going to highlight any specific tracks this time as pretty much every beat on here is a banger from the get go! Go 'head and click some samples and let the head nodding begin. Definitely a must cop for Dilla fans and beat heads alike. Limited edition pressing, recommended.

  • music label: Mahogani Music 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 38
    • "vocal garage house bangers"
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All of Disclosure's big hits on one 12"! Incase you've been sleeping on the hyped UK duo, The Singles EP gets you up to speed. The brothers Guy and Howard Lawrence (aka Disclosure) have recently taken the dance scene by storm, while also managing to catch the ear of the mainstream as well (signing to Interscope/Cherrytree on which the 12" is released). Not an easy task by any means, but take a listen to the sound samples and you'll hear why these dudes have caught on in such a major way. Infectious garage/house riddims fused with awesome vocals with just enough crossover appeal to keep everyone dancing. Features "Latch," "You & Me," and "White Noise" along with a fresh HudMo remix.

  • music label: Interscope / Cherrytree 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 39
    • "club oriented track from the britpop stalwarts"
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Limited edition pressing for Record Store Day 2013! This one is sure to please the Pulp fans as well as the indie dance crowd. Back in 2000 the band recorded a demo of "After You" and never really ended up doing anything with it. Thankfully DFA's James Murphy recently stepped in and saw the demo to completion. The result is an expert blend of Pulp's Britpop sensibilities and Mr. LCD Soundsystem's well honed production abilities. The wry wit of front man Jarvis Cocker is on fully display while the incessant rhythm drives the song forward. To complete the trifecta the UK's Soulwax handle the remix duties with aplomb. Never hesitant to take on the high profile remix gigs the band know precisely what to do and turn "After You" in to prime club material. Murphy's "4am Desperation Disco To Disco Dub Version" is no slouch either, providing a needed salve for all you LCD fans that are thirsty for more.

  • music label: Rough Trade 2013
reviewed by Joey Coco 05/2013
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# 40
    • "dirty distorted house and techno"
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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
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# 41
    • "dark and dubby rock covers of Chromatics, Kinks + more"
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Stones Throw's leading lady is back! It's been a minute since Anika rocked our world with her self-titled debut (produced by none other than Geoff Barrow of Portishead/Beak fame). Now that the dust has settled, Anika emerges once again with another self-titled piece, this time a seductive EP featuring highlights from the album, plus some fantastic new material. Anika's cover of the Kinks "I Go To Sleep" was an instant classic and leads off the EP, followed by new covers of tracks by the Chromatics ("In The City"), The Crystals ("He Hit Me"), and Shocking Blue ("Love Buzz"). Also included are dub versions of previous singles "Yang Yang" and "No One’s There" by Bristol producer Ratman. Pic sleeve, recommended.

  • music label: Stones Throw 2013
reviewed by TKB 05/2013
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# 42
    • "raw drum breaks compiled"
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Breaks for days, you'll be amazed. Paul Nice returns with the 9th (!) volume of his long running Drum Library series. As a world class digger, Mr. Nice has seemingly bottom-less crates from which he pulls only the finest boom-baps for your sampling or cutting pleasure. Needless to say, this is a treasure trove for beat heads! Limited to 2500 copies.

  • music label: Super Break Records 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 43
    • "Dilla instrumentals compiled"
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Rebirth Instrumentals! Double vinyl beats version of Rebirth Of Detroit, a compilation put together by the late great producer's mother, Maureen "Ma Dukes" Yancey, that paired unheard Jay Dee beats with some of Detroit's finest emcees and musicians. For the most part, these instrumental versions are far superior than the previously released rap versions as they just let the Dilla beats vibe. A great artifact by one of the best that ever did it from the "D". 12 tracks over 2 LPs, housed in gatefold sleeve.

  • music label: Ruff Draft Records 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 44
    • "modern soul masterpiece"
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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
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# 45
    • "classic golden era hip hop, essential listening"
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Official double vinyl repress for Brand Nubian's first LP, another very tough one to find from the Elektra catalogue. One For All is an amazing record from start to finish, sporting top notch production from the crew mixed with their party slash 5 Percenter lyrics. The big cuts remain "All For One," and "Slow Down," but seriously my brethren and cave dwelling devils, this is worth all investigation. More importantly than their positive (if sometimes contradictory) morals, Brand Nubian had beats for days and led by the fearlessly melodic Grand Puba, the emcees eat em up with punch-clock clarity. Excessive amounts of style. They sound so supremely cool on the cut, that you absolutely have to find out what the hell they are saying. I wore the shit out of my walkman doing the no-stop-button rewind on this tape, spending a whole summer getting these lyrics down just so I could have a shell of an idea what it's like to let such a finely tuned flow fall from my lips. 15 year old bliss I tell you! Deserving of mention: both versions of "Wake Up," Sadat X's solo "Concerto In X Minor," the pre-Jade pots and pans beat on "Drop The Bomb," the self-titled "Brand Nubian," the JB sampling/ Major Worries interpreting "Who Can Get Busy Like This Man" and damn near every other track on here. An essential piece in the golden years album puzzle. Recommended.

  • music label: Elektra / Traffic Entertainment Group 2004
reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2005
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# 46
    • "epic psych funk fusion"
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The Heliocentrics are back! The UK-based collective lead by drummer Malcolm Catto and bassist Jake Ferguson bring their distinct brand of psychedelic funk fusion back to Now-Again for the second full length on the respected label. Since 2007's Out There, the band has grown and evolved their sound exponentially, having collaborated with ethio-jazz legend Mulatu Astatke and Lloyd Miller (both collabs released by Strut). Now with 13 Degrees of Reality, the band reach new heights of psychedelic funk, infused with jazz, latin and african vibes, that have to be heard to be believed. The whole album is an epic listening experience in its entirety, but check out "Ethnicity," "Mysterious Ways," "Wrecking Ball," "Descarga Electronica," and "Black Sky" for a taste. Double LP, recommended.

  • music label: Now Again 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 47
    • "heavy rock-inspired beats, RSD exclusive"
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Record Store Day 2013 Exclusive! Brass Sabbath finds the infamous Gaslamp Killer teaming up with the afro-funk band Jungle By Night for a pair of raw and heavy rock-inspired cuts recorded at Redbull Studio Amsterdam. Check the rawness on their cover of Black Sabbath's "Electric Funeral" and the equally killer "High Times." Comes in pic sleeve with gold foil print. Previously only available for 4/20 RSD in Europe. Limited edition.

  • music label: Kindred Spirits 2013
reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013
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# 48
    • "ADD power pop from the French romantics"
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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
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