vinyl + cds

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

• music label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

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

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

• Music Label: Def Jam 1986

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2006

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

• Music Label: Def Jam 1986

reviewed by the mgmnt 10/2006

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

• music label: CTI Records

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

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

• Music Label: Capitol 1994

reviewed by The Voice 06/2011

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

• music label: Future Classic 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

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

• music label: Wolf + Lamb 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Snoop's solo debut, re-released for the first time on double vinyl. A hard find in the original, this remastered version was very necessary. Rediscover some early Snoop classics on this album like, "Gin and Juice," "It Ain't No Fun" (early Nate Dogg), and "What's My Name" on the album that only seem to get better with time. Also includes: "Doggy Dog World," "Tha Shiznit," "Lodi Dodi," "Murder Was The Case," "Gz And Hustlas". Recommended.

• Music Label: Death Row Records 2002

reviewed by the mgmnt 08/2005

The Madvillainy remix album is back! Madvillainy 2 The Madlib Remix was previously only available as part of the Madvillainy 2 Boxset and a small batch of white label pressings (which flew out of the Lab with the quickness), but now it finally sees a proper reissue complete with full pic sleeve and comic book. The original Madvillain was one of the illest collabs of all time, with MF Doom arguably at his amoeba genius prime, mixed with the unpredictable stoned beat aesthetics of Madlib. For the remix, Madlib revisits the project and gives fresh beats to the classic collab effort (apparently he made it for personal headphone listening right before a 10 hour flight to Tokyo). Obviously dope! This double LP vinyl version also comes with a free digital download of the entire album. Recommended.

• music label: Stones Throw 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

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

• Music Label: 1972 2012

reviewed by The Voice 05/2012

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

• record label: Mad Decent 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

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

• music label: Crosstown Rebels 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

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

• music label: Bastard Jazz 2012

reviewed by label 05/2012

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

• music label: R&S 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

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

• music label: R&S 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

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

• music label: G.E.D. Soul 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 05/2012

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

• music label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 05/2012

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

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

• Music Label: Psychemagik 2012

reviewed by The Voice 05/2012

Debut release from the Mister Saturday Night crew! Justin Carter and Eamon Harkin have been holding down Brooklyn for a minute with their Mister Saturday Night loft parties (and the Sunday Best parties before that), bringing a host of international all-stars to our great borough including Motor City Drum Ensemble, Theo Parrish, Caribou, and Pearson Sound to name a few. After many great parties, it only makes sense that a record label would follow so here it is! The first installment comes courtesy of newcomer Anthony Naples. Naples gives the world a taste of the Brooklyn house flavor with three tracks that do a great job of capturing the vibe of the MSN parties, especially with the deep bumps of the title track "Mad Disrespect." Gotta love those warm chords and soulful vocal chops. "Slackness" is a stripped down percussion work out that takes it deeper, while "Tusk" closes it out - bringing back those deep dreamy chords one more time for positive dancefloor vibes. Limited hand stamped copies.

• music label: Mister Saturday Night 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

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

• music label: R&S Records 1995

reviewed by the mgmnt

When I was in high school, I thought I was some sort of stoned philosopher. Talking about reptilian minds and shit, I used this album as my portal to higher consciousness and advanced stonerism. I worshipped the fuck out of this record, so much so that I camped out by the Twin's tour bus, because my friend Stang made me miss his first appearance in DC. Anyway, usually whenever I travel back to that phase, most things make me want to vomit. Floor scrubbing jeans, check. Phillies blunts shirts, check. H-cut ecstasy, check. Rocking clothes with 8 Balls on em, check. Dirty rave boderline-hippy chicks, check. BUT, the thing about this album is that I still worship it. From day one, I declared this one of the records I would take onto that mystical desert island, and I still would (along with the Queen is Dead and Loveless, so tacky). In my mind it's the best electronic album ever. The first track "Xtal" is as close to heaven you'll get through a walkman. "Ptolemy" is breakbeat driven lush. "We Are the Music Makers" is my dubby buddy. Some tracks are outright strange, and will rewire parts of your brain. 13 tracks spread over 2LPs on a limited edition grey area pressing. Recommended.

reviewed by the mgmnt

Everybody's Freaky Under Natures Kingdom - or EFUNK is Soul Clap's much anticipated full length debut on Wolf+Lamb. The Boston duo has been making the rounds in the house circuit for a minute now with their funk and r&b dipped brand of smooth and sexy house grooves. On EFUNK they let those influences fly even higher than before with an album comprised of proper "songs" (not just house beats) featuring a myriad of guest vocalists. It's an impressive range of styles - from the sexy Zapp-informed "Ecstasy" with Mel Blatt, weirdo electro grooves a la Egyptian Lover on "Allezby Inn" with the Genevan Heathen, playful funk on "The Clapping Song" with Baby Prince, or smooth r&b flavors like on "Take It Slow" with Franceska - but the strong points still lie on what Soul Clap do best. Check "Let It Go" featuring Roldy Cezaire or "Trouble Trouble Trouble" for that Soul Clap sound that is proven to move dancefloors. 13 tracks with funky pic sleeve.

• music label: Wolf + Lamb 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

It's been a minute since Mark Evetts (aka Mark E) decided he was done with edits and samples. He was at the top of the re-edit game with cult releases on Golf Channel, Jisco, Under The Shade, etc., when he decided to throw it to the side and focus on completely original productions. That is when he made the jump to Ghostly/Spectral with the Stone breaker album in 2011, which is where "Oranges" is lifted from. The track was an obvious highlight from the album, but for some reason it only made it to the CD/digital version until now. Spectral finally gives the vinyl fans what they've been wanting here in all its chugging, dreamy, synth heavy glory. Paired with the original mix is the a brand new space dub that takes the track to higher heights. Recommended.

• music label: Spectral Sound 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

It's been 2 years since Lazer Sword's first album, and it sounds like the SF-based duo has really grown into their own. Memory is Lando Kal and Low Limit's sophomore effort (released on Modeselektor's Monkeytown imprint), and has a much more mature and serious sound than anything they've previously put out. Taking a hint from the cover art, which seems like an homage to Cybotron's Enter, it would seem these dudes are going deep into the roots of techno and electro, with a healthy helping of bass. Personally I think it is a welcome shift in focus from the glitch-hop wobble to something much more subsstantial. Check the industrial strength electro on "Pleasure Zone," or "Point Of Return," the heavy ghetto tech pressure of "Missed A Spot," of the forward riddims of "Better From U" and "CHSEN" with Machine Drum. Impressive work for the headphones and the warehouse. Recommended.

• music label: Monkeytown 2012

reviewed by snackmaster 05/2012

Third release on Caribou's (aka Daphni aka Dan Snaith) currently hot Jiaolong imprint (De Noya 12" is essential). J Greenspan, better known as the vocalist for Junior Boys, embarks solo for the first time, dropping two instrumental tracks. "Crown Princess" is a super-refined piece of synth music: part new disco, part detroit techno. After every listen, this 10 minute track attaches to your brain cells and sprouts new connections and appreciations. "Guu" takes the same refined approach, but with a darker vibe that references Chicago techno. Once again, it's a slow reveal with multiple brain pop moments. Not for the lazy.

• music label: Jiaolong 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2012

Beat Electric coming through with the sweet boogie reissue. The SF-based blog is known for shining light on the deepest boogie and modern soul gems so it comes as no surprise that for the first release on their newly minted label, they go for the gusto with a proper repress of Carmen's sought-after '84 groover "Time To Move." The track is super catchy and infectious, a guaranteed floor mover that features a tough boogie beat with a hint of Freestyle influence. It's no easy catch in the field, often catching loot on the bay when it pops up so get with this legit repress (not a bootleg, recorded from the master tapes) while you can! Includes the 7" vocal & instrumental, and extended 12" instrumental. Recommended.

• music label: Beat Electric 2012

reviewed by snackmaster 05/2012

First ever full length LP from the good people at PPU. UKU KUUT's "Vision Of Estonia" 7" is an all-time favorite among heads here at the Lab, so we were stoked to see a whole album of material come to fruition. If you dug the 45, you'll love the LP as it is stacked with the same kind of laid back leftfield beats and lost 80's boogie grooves. Here's what the PPU had to say about it: PPU's first long-play LP highlights some of the early beginnings of one of our favorite producers, UKU KUUT. Written and recorded at UKU's home studio in Los Angeles and Stockholm between 1982 & 1989. Some tracks co-written with Maryn E. Coote, famous jazz vocalist who had her beginnings in 1960s Soviet Union. "That's my MOM" recalls UKU, "I remember when I was little, sitting under the mixing board at her sessions". Growing up in studios, UKU's love of music production began early, and over the years he has amassed a vast collection of domestic and soviet electronic gear. In true PPU style this LP is a mix of UKU KUUT's raw cassette demos, forgotten masters and unreleased magic. 10 tracks with full pic sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: People's Potential Unlimited 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Step into Toro Y Moi's time travelling DeLorean and go back to the late 2000's. That's what's happening on June 2009, a retrospective of work from before Chaz Bundick's rise to fame in the indie music scene. The production contained on these five 7"s actually pre-date his 2 full lengths and give us a glimpse of Toro's early experimentation with music software and sampling (from June 2009, duh). The slick synths and technical wizardry of his later efforts is swapped out for a hazy lo-fi glow that ties all these tracks together stylistically. Lots of fuzzy guitars on here too, plus the mellow emotion driven vocals with naive melodies make for a great listening with your significant other. 10 previously unreleased tracks spread over 5 x 45s, each with their own cover art. Also includes a free digital download, postcard, and stickers. Recommended.

• music label: Carpark Records 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

The curatorial wizardry of Chocolate Industries releases true magic on “Personal Space: Electronic Soul 1974 - 1984”, their new collection of incredible finds, gems of unheard, private-issue soul from the 70s and 80s, all with an emphasis on synthesizer, sequencer, and drum machine usage. Setting itself far above most recent reissues, it’s a compilation that explores the creation of an identity amidst what was a new age of sounds. Unique atmospheres, moods, emotions, are pioneered by circuitry, a prime example being the Makers’ “Don’t Challenge Me”. Lulling the listener into its call-and-response of synthesized composition and sultry vocals, the track has been melting ears around here. Jeff Phelps, Key & Cleary, Starship Commander Woo Woo’s “Master Starship” (basically, THE jam) further highlight these uncharted territories of emotional weirdness… a wholly new kind of soul music prime for introspection, mind-wandering and thoughtfulness (thoughtlessness). Highly recommended, a must-have for anyone who’s been digging anything from Stones Throw, Now Again Records, etc. Also of note, awesome packaging is just always a plus, with a beyond choice photo from NASA gracing the comp’s cover.

• Music Label: Chocolate Industries 2012

reviewed by A. Tomorrow 05/2012

Leave it to Numero Group to dig up that long lost soul you wish you knew about sooner. Here they've unearthed some true soul gems from Cleveland's Love Apple. Apparently the entire recorded catalog of this soulful trio had been collecting dust in a coverted dairy barn for almost three decades until being re-discovered. The band consists of three extremely soulful ladies who pour out their hearts on the mic, while Lou Ragland holds down guitar and Tony Roberson hits the drums. Needless to say the recordings have a gritty lo-fi quality to them, but it only adds to the appeal when you sit down and soak in the Love Apple vibes. Six tracks of pure soul bliss on heavyweight vinyl, housed in old school brown paper Boddie sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: Numero Group 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 05/2012

Due to a surge in popularity since its usage in the Drive Soundtrack (11 million Youtube views and counting), Kavinsky's "Nightcall" has been reissued on France's Record Makers. It's interesting how film can elevate a song you already know in your conscious (and vice versa). I remember carrying this single when it first came out, and it barely got a buzz. Personally, I couldn't get over the villainous cyborg vocals (but after watching the film, my feelings changed). Also features "Pacific Coast Highway" and dance remixes by Dustin N'Guyen and Jackson. Recommended.

• music label: Record Makers 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2012

Bitches ain't shit but hos and tricks, lick on the nuts and suck the dick. Ahhh, quality shit. My earliest memory of this record was when Dr. Dre was on the Arsenio Hall show (woof! woof!) and performed G Thang. It was the world's introduction to the new G-Funk sound and a young skinny, almost goofy lookin Snoop. For those who have forgotten, let me recount side A. Intro, Dre Day, Let Me Ride, The Day the Niggaz Took Over, Nuthin But A "G" Thang, Deez Nuuuts!!! Easily one of the hypest sides ever with a production sound that has yet to be matched, even by the doctor himself. Got to give a shout to my friend Shwan on this one, cause we used to roll in his gold stick shift Mercedes with the car phone with the cord, and blast this shit and pretend we were hard. Classic like fruit roll ups at lunch.

• music label: Death Row 1992

reviewed by the mgmnt 07/2008

Here we have the much hyped and much lauded debut from NYC duo Sleigh Bells on loud, thick 180g vinyl. Treats scored a big 8.7 on Pitchfork (along with a best new music stamp) and if that doesn't mean anything to you, try taking a listen to some of the sound samples above and see what the buzz is all about for yourself. There's something about that raw energy and the unexpected blending of styles they seem to pull off so well that really strikes a chord and makes this album stand out from the glut of indie releases. Is it punk/noise? Overdriven pop rock? Club beats or Electro? Derek Miller's production is a bit of all these things, held together by Alexis Krauss' catchy vocal hooks and is just the right kinda sound for this post-post-music world. 11 tracks, pressed up by Mom+Pop and M.I.A.'s NEET label.

• Music Label: Mom + Pop Music 2011

reviewed by suicide bangs 04/2011

Another sureshot 45 from Detroit's Funk Night Records via Motor City heavyweights, Will Sessions. These guys are killing it from every angle - funk, jazz, fusion, hip hop... Apparently they can do no wrong! On this one they go for a tough reinterpretation of BR Gunna and Phat Kat's "True Story." These guys are masters at giving hip hop beats a real live feel. On the flipside things get heavy heavy on "Dub Rock," a track based off the Black Milk cut of the same name. Two sides of fire right here, well recommended!

• music label: Funk Night Records 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

Will Sessions do it up for the jazz heads. The five piece band from Detroit might best be known around these parts for their amazing live renditions of hip hop classics (see Elmatic or Mix Takes) and their smokin' funk originals (check those Funk Night 45s), but on 2010's Kindred the band showcase their talent for jazz fusion styles. With super influential jazz labels like Tribe coming from Detroit, it only makes sense they would do a tribute to the pioneers of the sound. This really sounds like a rare record from the 70's full of lush spiritual and free jazz moods, together with powerful drums at times. Check the sound on the uplifting "Redirections," "Omniverse" or the driving "Polyester People" and "Seven Miles." The title track "Kindred" even features Tribe Records veteran Wendel Harrison! Excellent stuff from start to finish. Recommended.

• music label: The Few

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 05/2012

This is the album that started it all. A minor success at the time, Soundpieces has developed quite a following over the years through the continued success of group members Wildchild, Romes and particularly Madlib. It's a Madlib Invazion for all 24 tracks which include "Answers," "Whenimondamic," "The Anthem," "Questions," "Weededed," "Crate Diggin," and lots more. Guests include the Alkaholiks, Defari, Declaime, Medaphoar, Oh No, and Dilated. 17 tracks in total spread across triple vinyl, includes single sided 7" with "Bone Marrow."

• Music Label: Stones Throw 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2008

Record Store Day 2012 exclusive from Fool's Gold Recs! They went ahead and gave Danny Brown's full length XXX the deluxe vinyl treatment, complete with bonus 7" and pressed up on white vinyl. As for the music, here's our original review of XXX from 2011 - If you're reading this you probably already know what's up. Danny Brown brings what you've been wanting: real life raps with a dark sense of humor (like a modern day Devin the Dude, but from Detroit). You've probably been bumping "Radio Song" and as you can expect it lives in its own universe on here. Of course one has to be down with the dude's voice, which is on the B-Real nasally tip. Most of the subject matter touches on drugs and barely scraping by. You either love this dude or you hate him. Production duties handled by top talent like Frank Dukes, Squadda Bambina of Main Attrakionz, Paul White, and DJ House Shoes. 19 tracks total over two LPs with bonus 7" featuring acapellas for "Die Like A Rockstar," "Blunt After Blunt," "Lie4," and "I Will."

• music label: Fool's Gold

reviewed by The Voice 04/2012

Jazz meets hip hop done right by the Robert Glasper Experiment on Blue Note Records. According to producer/pianist Glasper, Black Radio is the much needed slap in the face jazz has needed for some time now. After putting this on here in the office, I'd say his attempt to revitalize jazz and inject some energy into the genre is quite successful, especially when you take into account the list of high profile guest artists he has on this piece! The featured artist list is like a who's-who of top neo soul and conscious hip hop artists including Erykah Badu, Bilal, Shafiq Husayn (of SA-RA), Lupe Fiasco, and Yalin Bey aka Mos Def. Add these voices over work of Glasper along with saxist/vocoderist Casey Benjamin, bassist Derrick Hodge, and drummer Chris Dave and you have an undeniably fresh sonic landscape that may very well be a future classic. Features many outstanding originals, as well as surprising covers of Sade, David Bowie, and even a vocoder version of Nirvana's "Teen Spirit."

• music label: Blue Note 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2012

The title track from Tycho's 2011 full length gets a proper 12" release along with a couple fresh remixes. In its original form, "Dive" is a brilliant piece of driving dreamy goodness that makes you feel like you are running through the clouds. It skillfully blends shoegaze, indie, electronic, and balearic into something you can put on repeat over and over again. For the remix, Keep Shelly In Athens slow it down to a crawl for a euphoric down beat variation, while Memoryhouse drop most of the drums and draw the focus on those lush textures. Housed in a beautiful pic sleeve.

• music label: Ghostly 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2102

While his formative years were spent listening to everything from Yes to Photek, Scott Hansen didn't get his hands on an actual guitar or drum machine until he left his native Sacramento for San Francisco in 1995. "Encountering this whole new world at 20 years old was a profound experience," says Hansen, better known by his musical pseudonym Tycho and as the graphic artist ISO50. "At the time, I was just learning the processes of design and music; both felt very similar, and have flowed back and forth for me ever since." As seamless as his two creative outlets have been, nearly a decade passed before the release of Hansen's first proper Tycho LP, Sunrise Projector. And while three striking singles have emerged since then, the sum of all those sepia-toned parts is nowhere near the double-exposed soundscapes of Dive. The product of a prolonged break from IS050's design work and blog, it pays tribute to Tycho's prismatic past (the dense, guitar-guided turning points of "Daydream" and "Adrift") but spends most of its time pointing to the project's not-so-distant future. That can mean any number of things, really, from the halcyon hooks and hopeful horizons of "A Walk" to the expansive, wildly expressive tone poetry of the title track, an eight-minute epic that unfolds like a compressed concept album. Or at the very least, a restless vision of prog-rock - one that's been coated in neon colors and filtered through a thick piece of blotter paper. And then there's "Elegy", a spare curtain closer that pairs a vulnerable crescendo with a fitting bridge to future works. And with that, Dive establishes its position as the most diverse musical statement of Hansen's multi-medium career; the point where his skills as a performer finally catch up with his vaporized vision of a world that doesn't belong to any particular time or place.

• music label: Ghostly International 2011

reviewed by Ghostly 12/2011

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

• music label: DFA 2012

reviewed by TKB 05/2012

Double LP pressing of Odd Future's latest album for Record Store Day 2012. Domo, Tyler, Hodgy, Left, Syd and the rest of the Wolf Gang have had the internets buzzing for a minute now, and with The Odd Future Tape Volume 2, the LA crew solidifies their place in the pantheon of irreverent, no-fuck-giving rap groups. The album delivers a great overview of what Golf Wang is all about - the majority of tracks being held down by clever, youthful raps, balanced out by a couple smooth joints featuring resident singer Frank Ocean. Also check the 10+ minute posse cut closer "Oldie" that features the whole crew (including Earl Sweatshirt) doing what they do best. 18 tracks over two LPs with bonus CD version included. Comes in 2 different covers, shipped randomly.

• music label: Odd Future Records 2012

reviewed by suicide bangs 05/2012

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

Let me take this as a moment to say The Cure sucks bad now. Coming from a diehard fan, please stop making music. Robert, your voice has turned into an eternal whine, and please change le whack stylez! You look like you belong at The Gathering of the Juggalos, not the pinnacle of new wave history.

That being said, this Record Store Day 2012 release is pretty awesome. For Disentegration fans, Entreat (live recording from Webley 1989) is an essential compliment to the masterpiece. Disentegration is so well-produced (some may say over-produced), this stripped down version really cuts to the core of the black mascara and puffy high tops. Entreat has quite a discographic history (import-only release, released as bonus CD, RSD 2010 Euro-only release), but this marks the first time that it's been available in the US in its full 12 track glory, replicating Disentegration's tracklisting (the original Entreat only had 8 tracks). Recommended.

• music label: Rhino Records 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 05/2012

MC5's "Kick Out The Jams" is one of the most iconic songs of proto punk out there. You've probably heard it even if you think you haven't. The hippies didn't know what hit them when the MC5 took the stage in 1969. On the flip is Afrika Bambaataa's cover of the same tune. Originally released on Afrika Bambaataa And Family's Beware (The Funk Is Everywhere) it's almost a novelty a this point. The sound is pure 80s gated reverb and hair metal guitars. Limited edition pink and white marbled vinyl.

• Music Label: Rhino 2012

reviewed by The Voice 04/2012

So this maybe the first time an internet meme has made it to 7". Jimmy Fallon's ode to Tim Tebow over Bowie's "Space Oddity" is undeniably catchy and pretty well done. The flip side sees Fallon jumping into Jim Morrison's shoes to cover "Reading Rainbow" in a very Doors-ish style. Say what you will, Fallon does a pretty impressive job of impersonating these rock gods.

• Music Label: Warner Bros 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 04/2012