vinyl + cds

Originally released in March of 1995,Lifestylez Ov Da Poor & Dangerous placed Big L on the list of New York elite. Armed with sharp, witty lyrics and a cocky attitude, the Harlem MC's heavyweight presence is littered all over tracks like "MVP," "Put It On," "8 Iz Enuff," "Danger Zone," "Street Struck," and "Da Graveyard" featuring the then-unknown Jay-Z. Production wise, Buckwild, Craig Boogie, Kid Capri, Lord Finesse, and Showbiz contribute. For the first time ever, the classic release is reissued as a remastered double LP pressing, and it is accompanied by a 18" x 24" fold-out poster featuring the original artwork. Recommended.

• music label: Traffic 2010

reviewed by nakinboots

Delicious Vinyl finally gets around to re-releasing the instrumental version of this album. I'm not mad, I'm just saying it's about time. I once read an interview with J-Swift (producer of Bizarre Ride II) where he mentioned that Pete Rock had asked him how he got such an ill bass sound on the track "4 Better or Worse?" He explained that he had played a real Rhodes for the bass. Next thing you know every hip hop producer (including the Soul Brother #1) had a Rhodes in their arsenal (that's J-swift talking not me). If that's true, it would mean Swift's influence over 90's hip hop and R&B production (to which the Rhodes sound was a cornerstone), was tremendous. Either way I know his influence on me was huge, as his usage of Stanley Cowell's "Traveling Man" for "On the DL"; turned me into a straight Strata East fiend. Aside from being merely influential, this is one of the more warranted instrumental releases I've seen in a while. Swift's thickly layered beats were often overshadowed by the Pharcyde's vocal personalities, but the production was the real machine behind this album's success. Unfortunately neither Swift, nor the Pharcyde were able to recapture this type of chemistry on any of their subsequent releases, making this instrumental version that much more crucial. Everything is included except the interludes, the remix of "Soul Flower" (I think it was on a 12") and "Pack the Pipe." These Delicious Vinyl releases are unpredictable; no telling how long this will be around.

• music label: Delicious Vinyl

reviewed by Blu Jemz

DFA debut for the duo Still Going aka Eric Duncan from Rub N Tug and Olivier Spencer of House of House, Manthraxx and Kitsune fame. If you recognize those names, you're probably anxious over the prospects here, what cosmic territories will this lead to? "Still Going On" is a continuation of their underground hit "Still Going On Theme" which is to featured on Prins Thomas BBC Radio 1 Essential Mix. "Still" and the b-side "On And On" both have that hypnotic effect, as they continually hammer down basic, repetitive, catchy elements until you're sweating and your eyes are rolling into the back of your skull.

• music label: DFA 2007

reviewed by the mgmnt

Welcome double LP reissue of Stereolab's 1993 album Transient Random-Noise Bursts With Announcements. This was the band's big major label debut (originally released on Elektra here in the US) and featured more of a rock feel with plenty of spacey, krautrock influence. Highlights include the driving motorik rhythms of "Analog Rock," "Jenny Ondioline" and "Crest," the psyched out "Golden Ball," and the laidback lounge vibes of "Pack Yr Romance." 11 Tracks in all.

• music label: 1972 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

Gotta love that big fat modular synth on the cover. Mars Audiac Quintet is Stereolab's sophomore effort on Elektra from 1994. Here the band continues to explore different sonic terrain from other indie bands at the time, shaping their sound with various influences ranging from krautrock and easy listening to post-rock, pop and everywhere in between. Strong melodies and vocals are a constant throughout the journey. 15 tracks spread over 2LPs housed in a lovely gatefold sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: 1972 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

What happens when noise rockers throw down their guitars and pick up synths and drum machines? Mi Ami's Decade aims to answer this question. The band is comprised of Damon Palermo aka Magic Touch and Daniel Martin McCormack aka Ital, both of whom have solo releases on 100% Silk as well, and together they bring their collective love of house and techno to the forefront with this collaborative debut on the label. Four tracks of deep, moving dance music for the dancefloor and your mind including "Horns," "Time Of Love," "Bells," and "Free of Life." Get lost in the sound.

• music label: 100% Silk 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

Finally on vinyl! This is the first Com Truise EP from 2010, originally released on AMDISCS as digital-only, but now on shiny, bright blue wax courtesy of Ghostly International. Expect plenty of the retro-synth goodness that Com Truise is known for over 11 tracks loaded with vintage drum machines, shimmery synthesizers, and soundscapes that make you think of beige computers, soft focus lasers and smoke machines. This vinyl reissue features a fresh remaster that bumps better than the original files and it also nearly doubles the tracklist with 4 bonus tracks "Pyragony," "Tripya," "Space Dust," and "Innerfacer." Recommended.

• music label: Ghostly International 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

The original 1994 clear vinyl pressing of this record is one of the holy grails of hip-hop digging. While the original was a scarce A-list DJ promo, several rounds of well-executed bootlegs made their way onto the market. The originals were then elevated to mythical status verified by only the highest of hip-hop nerdus (hmm.. lemmie check the etching). Ha-ha... over a decade later, I am just happy to have this black vinyl repress. Aside from the hype, this is De La at their fun-loving, collaborating prime, best exemplified by cult-classics "Sh.Fe.Mc's" with A Tribe Called Quest (... I hope your cells get sickles!) and "Pattie Dooke" featuring Guru. You also get Buhloone standouts "I Am I Be," its cousin "I Be Blowin," and "In The Woods." "Stix & Stonz" featuring The Fearless Four, GM Caz, and Prince Whipper Whipper was a collabo that was probably saved from the cutting room floor (but could have easily been left there too).

Finally a repress of this most sought after single. Jazz vibe in full effect, and to this day that bassline gets clubs hopping. The straight shit here, same configuration as the og 12" featuring the album mix, the Giant Step mix, both instrumentals, and the 7" mix.

• music label: Elektra 1992

reviewed by the mgmnt

The NYC soundtrack. The record that carved Wallace's name into the bricks of the city. Who shot Biggie Smalls? It was that imp shit Lil Kim! All the inspirational tracks: Juicy, One More Chance, Unbelievable, Warning, Big Poppa, One More Chance, The What (with Meth), and the bonus track Who Shot Ya. Double vinyl.

• music label: Bad Boy 1995

reviewed by the mgmnt

1996 debut album from the camel-faced, b-boning one. Still firmly planted in the Marcy state of mind, this was Jay's closest equivalent to Ready To Die. Includes the hits "Can't Knock the Hustle, Brooklyn's Finest, Dead Presidents II, Feelin It, Aint No Nigga, 22 Two's, Friend or Foe," and others. Double LP version, full pic sleeve.

• music label: Rocafella 1996

reviewed by the mgmnt

The legendary DJ duo Optimo helm the 52nd edition of Fabric's mix series, recorded right on the heels of the final night of their legendary party of the same name in Glasgow. They're known for blending a diverse range of rock, disco, house and anything else you can dance to, but this mix tends to stick to the disco/house/techno end of their repertoire. The track list includes names like Prins Thomas, Basic Channel, Locussolus (DJ Harvey's project), Altz, Thomas Brinkmann, Roni Griffith, Roska, Desire, Matias Aguayo and Levon Vincent. Really excellent stuff here, a great reminder of why they're so revered (not that we needed it). 22 tracks in all. Recommended.

• music label: Fabric 2010

reviewed by Hires 06/2010

Finally, a vinyl pressing of LCD Soundsystem's awesome cover of Carl Craig's "Throw." The original version by C2 (produced under the Paperclip People alias) is a classic piece of funky Detroit house released back in '94. James Murphy and the LCD gang have been using the track as their live show encore for awhile, and the track was previously only available as a bonus track off iTunes, but thankfully Planet E has decided to finally press it up on 12" wax. Not only that, they've thrown in the original version too! Can't lose with this one. Recommended.

• music label: Planet E 2010

reviewed by snackmaster 01/2011

Deadstock find. Another out of print gem from the Kon & Amir's On Track label. Here's the original 2005 review from Monk Uno: Boston - NY duo Kon and Amir pull another plate of golden sushi from the cooler, and in keeping with their last comp for Seven Heads, these two cuts are pure deep disco toro. "Don't Fight the Feeling" by Master Force and "Soul on Your Side" by the Rhythm Makers have all the handclaps, wah guitar, pulsing hi-hat and coked-up brass you could want, and I like that they included the original to "Don't Fight..." as a prelude to their edit. One thing is keeping this record from getting a clean bill of health, however. The sound quality is poor. The Rhythm Makers's lean and mean retake of GQ's "Disco Nights" groove is a sureshot, simple and plain, but is sadly disqualified due to a over modulated mastering job. No big deal for the home listener, but a disappointment to anyone who had hoped to play this in a DJ set.

• music label: On Track 2005

reviewed by Monk One

Ballroom Records' disco series continues here with two early 80's cuts, both presented in original unedited form. "Ecstasy" by Endgames is one of those classics that everybody's heard but nobody knows who does it. When I heard Red Alert and other old school gods cut this up, I had no clue that the original artist was a straight up British new wave group about as hip hop as Howard Jones. Yep. The original of this is something that you'll pay $20+ for in shops that know what the deal is, otherwise you may, emphasis on the "may," find this for a dollar somewhere. Why wait for that though, pick up this loud 12" repressing while it lasts. The flip side is Hugh Masekela's electro/boogie/afro excursion "Don't Go Lose It Baby." Andre from Wax Poetics' dad is a big garage head and put me up on this a while back, but I still haven't found an original 12". One of the records from Larry Levan's arsenal back in the day, this will work in a disco or house set just fine. You may want to get the next record cued before Hugh starts rapping tho.

• music label: Ballroom 2003

reviewed by Monk One

Big disco break gets the proper 12" re-edit. You guys should recognize the mean sound of Jackie Robinson's "Pussy Footer." It's been on UBB as well as several classic mixtapes (see Qbert's Preschool Brakes Mix), but this Jazz Funk version extends the drum break for maximum mix and cut up possibilities. The flip gets real funky on yah with a re-edit of Sweet Charles "Hang Out And Hustle," a laid back funk tune perfect for chillaxin' on the weekend. Two sides of quality.

• music label: Jazz Funk 2003

reviewed by snackmaster

Leave it to Kenny Dope to unearth the rarest of the rare funk breaks. They don't call him the Dope Man for nuthin'! Unless you're a super elite 45 digger, chances are you've never heard of The Original Blacksheep (that's okay, I hadn't heard of them either). Original recordings from the band are practically impossible to find and are the stuff of digger legend. There's actually a very lengthy story about how this record came about - a tale of a young band from the 70's that broke up, reformed, then went dormant - only to find their music to be highly sought-after, decades after the fact by a new breed of funk enthusiasts and collectors. One of those collectors happened to be Kenny Dope and that is how this recording came to existence. Check the funky, psych influenced sounds of "In The Forest," "Heaven Must Of Made You Girl" and "Do You Wanna Dance." A rare treat, brought to you by Kay-Dee from the original 8 track reels. Packaged in gatefold double 7" sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: Kay-Dee 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 07/2012

Can't believe we've never had this one up in the Lab before. K Lim said it best on his review of the Black Nostaljack 12" - "If any of you think that Camp Lo was a one hit wonder with "Luchini," well you may be right. However, that doesn't dismiss the fact they put out one of the strongest (my personal favorite) albums in mid 90s hip-hop." While it is true that everyone knows and loves Sonny Cheeba & Gicci Suede for "Luchini" (which is still bumped on original 12" to this day in the office), the full length is pretty much slept-on or forgotten. It's a shame really since that same blaxploitation influenced vibe that made "Luchini" so great is found all over Uptown Saturday Night. The whole album is super bumpable, despite the fact you can't really understand what the hell they are rapping about (but it doesn't really matter 'cause their rap delivery is just so charismatic). If you slept back in the day, here's your chance to get right on double vinyl. 14 tracks in all.

• music label: Profile 1997

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

LAST COPIES! Here's the way out of print double LP from Scott Herren featuring Diplo and Blu Jemz from the shelves of Lab HQ. The full length Piano Overlord project from Scott Herren aka Prefuse, and we did it up deluxe for you with a vinyl run pressed on 150g LPs and housed in a heavy matte gatefold sleeve. If you haven't been following the singles we've released (both of which are now out of print), this is another guise for the prolific Herren, where he played all instruments- primarily Rhodes, busted Wurlitzer, and drums- for all the songs, and rearranged them in his studio in Spain. We think it's some of his best work, landing favorably between the Prefuse and Savath & Savalas styles. Lush and live sounding but with a slight production edge- check tracks like "Springs Arrival, Agoraphobia, Walk Home" and "Stay Home" for the goods. Bonus features on the LP include the instrumental to Blu Jemz' Keyboard King remix, and the unreleased alternate take of Diplo's remix, neither of which appeared on the previous PO vinyl.

• music label: Money Studies 2005

reviewed by the mgmnt

And the cover of the week award goes to SBTRKT, hands down. His masks are dope, but seeing them through this holographic 3D lenticular sleeve is something else! You'll be hard pressed to find any records that looks like this in your collection. As for the music, you already know SBTRKT kills it on the forward bass hybrids. On "Hold On," he teams up with vocalist Sampha for some melodic house with a moody, melancholy touch. "Ride To Freedom" takes the flip with its bouncey bass riddims and tricked out arpeggios that sound like a NES on ecstasy. Also includes the Sisi Bak Bak remix for "Hold On." Limited edition, Recommended.

• music label: Young Turks 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 08/2012

Purity Ring's lullabies for the club are equally indebted to airy 90’s R&B, lush dream pop, and the powerful, bone-rattling immediacy of modern hip hop. Corin Roddick's trap rap influenced instrumentals set the ideal backdrop for Megan James' lyrical odes to dismembered and ravaged body parts. Despite the bands young age the production is at once futuristic and sophisticated; polished enough to fit among their peers on pop radio, but original enough to stand out from the pack. Shrines is filled with an impending sense of doom, as if the album was shrouded in darkness. And they consistently deliver that darkness with accuracy and precision. Limited edition marbled teal vinyl.

• Music Label: 4AD 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 08/2012

Debut 12" for up and coming producer Mike Tucker aka Blood Diamonds. The LA-based producer just signed to 4AD and has teamed up with Grimes for "Phone Sex," his first single on the highly respected label. The production here is already upbeat and catchy as hell, a combination of tropical techno bumps with an infectious pop flair, but add Grimes' candy coated vocals on it and you have a track that's guaranteed to engrain itself in your brain (for better or worse). The 12" comes with a couple remixes - one from Unicorn Kid who proceeds to rave it up, and from Jensen Sportag who gives it an interesting broken beat treatment. Also includes the bouncey synth-pop goodness of "Ritual." Pressed on see through pink vinyl.

• music label: 4AD 2012

reviewed by suicide bangs 07/2012

Limited 12" from Ariel Pink and Dam-Funk. "Baby" is the first single from his upcoming Mature Themes LP, and is actually a cover of a lost slow jam classic from Donnie & Joe Emerson (which is going to be reissued by Light In The Attic very soon). D-F and Ariel stay true to the original with a hazy mix of psychedelic rock and soul vibes, perfect for spacing out or grooving with your lady too. One-sided vinyl with embossed sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: 4AD 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

Four Tet drops the sixteenth release on his highly in-demand imprint Text (seriously, every release has been truly limited and they always sell out). On "128 Harps", Four Tet demonstrate his dubstep fist, blending extra-mean beats and his signature electronic warmth. Four Tet fans hit add to cart now. B-side remix by reconstructs the track as grungy house track. Recommended.

• music label: TEXT 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 07/2012

Limited edition Japan only release from Psychemagik! This one compiles all their previously vinyl-only Heelin' Feelin' Edits on one loaded CD, perfect for the digital DJs sans turntables. The duo has been at the top of the cosmic disco edit game with undeniable jams like "For Your Love," "Ass Nation," "Way Milky," "Boogie Dream," and "Upskirt" that have been rocking floors for a minute now, but this release also includes 2 unreleased cuts that are exclusive to this CD release. Check the sun-drenched "Andalucia" and "Runnin' Pt. 2" - a drum heavy remake of one of Psychmagik's first ever releases. Only 300 pressed so act quick! Recommended.

• music label: Psychemagik 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

SF's Pat Les Stache has been around the scene for awhile now, curating the excellent American Athlete blog with all kinds of disco gems and releasing his edits on his own Cabana label. For his debut on Kojak, Pat hooks up "The Spirit Rides Again," a stellar edit of some rare 70's cosmic library cut. Can't call the original, but it's definitely got a potent combination of driving breaks with spaced out, fusion-y elements for your next Loft jam. The flipside takes it even deeper into tribal afro-jazz territory with "Odeyailoo Mambo." Heavy stuff.

• music label: Kojak 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

Jamie Jones has been quickly rising to the top of the DJ scene and it's easy to see why. With releases on labels as varied as Freak n'Chic, Cocoon, and Get Physical he came to the forefront of modern house music. Since starting his own label, Hot Creations and production outfit Hot Natured, he's been responsible for bringing loads of heat to the dance music world. For his second full length on Crosstown Rebels he reached into the vaults of his infamous studio. Jamie explains: "This is a collection of my favourite unreleased secret weapons from the last 5 years plus some brand new tunes that I'm hammering on the dancefloor right now. Looking back in the vaults, I found some killers that people have been trying to get their hands on for ages and decided to make my second album a combination of these."

• Music Label: Crosstown Rebels 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 08/2012

The first Piano Overlord record was actually released by the Lab's defunct Money Studies label (also home to Diplo's first vinyl release) back in 2004-05. If I'm not mistaken, these recordings are from the same Barcelona sessions: Scott Herren delivered half the tracks to us, and half to Chocolate industries. Over the years, we still get lots of inquiries about Piano Overlord: This is some of Herren's most organic work with lots of live drums, Rhodes , and other non-synthesized keyboards. Features contributions from McEntire of Tortoise, Tyondai Braxton formerly of the Battles, Cibelle and others. In addition, Herren plans to donate the artistic proceeds of Piano Overlord releases to various relief funds for immigrants. Recommended.

• music label: Chocolate Industries 2012

reviewed by the mgmnt 07/2012

Italians Do It Better label boss Mike Simonetti returns with 4 fresh edits on super limited picture disc. First of all, that's one of the coolest pic discs ever (for those that don't know, the image is of the "Golden Record" NASA attached to the Voyager to explain Earth to any would be space travelers that found it), and the edits contained are just as dope. Chic's "Everybody Dance" kicks it off in dub form on "Everybody Dub," a sure shot party starter of the highest degree. Next up comes the burning disco grooves of "Giving And Living," while I'll Root This Mountain Down" switches it up from disco to bouncy, folky rock. A bold stylistic change, but Mike pulls it off with panache. Finally, "Extra Terrestrial Arpeggiator" takes it to the stars with driving arpeggiator pulses and an over the top cosmic climax.

• music label: Public 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

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

• music label: La Vida 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

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

• music label: Universal Motown 2010

reviewed by nakinboots

Let's forgo all the philosophizing and speculating, and instead just say that Kala is another monster album from M.I.A. Sorry, haters - with Switch, Diplo, Blaqstarr and Timbaland behind the boards, there was basically no way Ms. Arul was gonna catch a sophomore slump. London's Switch (aka Dave Taylor) is just about the biggest dance producer / remixer and one half of Major Lazer, so his style mixed with M.I.A.'s jumble of influences makes for some seriously unique "pop" music. Totally wasn't expecting the Bolly-disco sound on "Jimmy," or the flat-out weirdness of "Bird Flu" and lead single "Boyz." (M.I.A. also seems to have picked up a fondness for regurgitating lyrics, spitting up some gems from the Modern Lovers and Pixies on various tracks.) Switch's production makes up the bulk of the album, but some real gems come when Maya branches out. "Mango Pickle Down River" is virtually just a remix of Aboroginal kiddie rappers Wilcannia Mob's "Down River," but with a song that fucking awesome to start, it doesn't matter much. Blaqstarr brings his trademark minimal spookiness to "The Turn," and the M.I.A. / Switch / Diplo power trio really tears it up on the Bmore-ish "XR2." Timbaland left his collab with M.I.A., "Come Around," off his solo album - dunno why, it's pretty hot and his album was shit anyway. This one is not. 12 tracks; 47 minutes. Recommended

• music label: XL Recordings 2007

reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red

The Roots' unknown first album that was recorded in Europe and released independently in 93 before the Roots signed with MCA. Good news for you: this is quite possibly the Roots best LP. It's more raw than "Do You Want More," with a playful sound, that at points, focuses more on the live-band aspect of emcee/band interaction. Double LP of songs that should have easily been banging major label singles... but yes, some things are best left unspoiled. "Grits" with that organ riff is one of nicest songs we've heard in a while. Also includes "The Longest Posse Cut in History" (12 minutes), live tracks, and some live-style band out-takes. Ever wonder why "Do You Want More??!!" started out with song #18? Recommended.

• music label: Remedy 1993/2009

reviewed by the mgmnt

JD Twitch can do no wrong. After slaying it with the Cumbia Edits and the Punk New Wave Post Torch Pop Synth Beats EP, the man from Optimo drops a monster EP of heavy afro-influenced house on Autonomous Africa Volume 1. Nothin' but bangers on this one - from the funked out afro-bumps of Sofrito vs. Tabou No 2's "Tabou For The People," to the deep moving Auntie Flo Rework of Atakoru Manu's  "Bebo Komo" or the stomping "Flowers & Bees & Birds & Trees" beats - these cuts are designed to get 'em out on the floor and keep 'em there. Also includes the latin-flavored riddims of "Cumbia 10." Well recommended.

• music label: Autonomous Africa 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 07/2012

The Original Sound of Cumbia explores the rich tradition of Colombian cumbia & porro, with focuses on some of the earliest recorded sounds of the genre and the evolution of it, as the captivating style traveled from its birthplace "on the Caribbean coast in land to central Colombia and the capital Bogota." This is Volume 2, and contains close to 30 tracks, exploring the stunning and joyful origins of cumbia & porro through original 45s and album cuts from key figures like - Alberto Pacheco, Carlos Roman, Anibal Velasquez, etc - that pushed the music forward by experimenting with new influences and instruments. This massive and definitive project, five years in the making, is the result of Quantic "becoming slowly submerged in Colombian musical culture," which lead the producer/DJ to learn the accordion, start a band, and of course, scour through the country, find, and listen to hundreds of 78s, 45s, and LPs from years 1948-1979. 28 tracks total, comes with detailed liner notes and free MP3 download. This vinyl version is limited to 1500 copies. Highly recommended.

• music label: Soundway 2011

reviewed by Nakinboots 01/2012

Although Harry Nilsson might be most famously remembered as John Lennon's drinking partner during his separation from Yoko Ono, he has a back catalog that most musicians would be envious of. The reclusive singer-songwriter released more than an album a year during the period between 1966 and 1977. Falling somewhere in the middle of his career, The Point was essentially a fable, extolling the trials and tribulations of a round-headed person named Oblio growing up in a "Pointed Village" where by rule of order everyone and everything in the land was to have "a point." Following the success of the album it was adapted into an animated short film for ABC by Fred Wolf (who would later go on to produce Puff The Magic Dragon). The Point contained the hit single, "Me And My Arrow" which was sampled for Blackalicious' "Blazing Arrow." How did Nilsson get to the idea of The Point in the first place? "I was on acid," he says, "and I looked at the trees and I realized that they all came to points, and the little branches came to points, and the houses came to point. I thought, 'Oh! Everything has a point, and if it doesn't, then there's a point to it.'" Fully remastered from the original recordings. Includes fully restored comic storyboard, the same that was included with the original vinyl release.

• Music Label: Get On Down 2012

reviewed by The Voice 07/2012

Gibbs and Lib doin' the damn thang. After the Thuggin EP dropped, I was wondering how long we would have to wait for another dose of realness, but thankfully they cooked up some new material quick! The Shame EP is the second collaborative EP from the Beat Konducta and LA-by-way-of-Indiana rapper Freddie Gibbs and once again they're bringing it on the beats AND the lyrics. The title cut "Shame" finds Madlib flipping a heavy soul groove, while Gibbs rips the mic a new one from a ghetto perspective. "Terrorist" ups the tempo with another killer production from Madlib while Gibbs handles lyrics properly. Also includes the bonus beats "Later That Night" and "The Morning After" plus instrumentals and acapellas for "Shame" and "Terrorist." Housed in slick red cover with spot gloss print, designed by Jeff Jank.

• music label: Madlib Invazion 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

Damn that's a sick lookin' record! Easily one of the coolest colored vinyls to come around these parts, plus with a pair of Dilla-produced classics in the grooves. Pharcyde's "Runnin'" is not only one of their finest party records, but also one of Jay Dee's best productions for the group. In our our original review we said: "Runnin' has that warm jazz/samba beat and their trademark sung chorus, keeping it fun and playful on an otherwise lackluster sophomore album. In years after its release, this became one of the key songs to ignite the Jay Dee hype machine, and rightfully so. Who says you can't play Jay Dee in the club?" True! B-side features the Dilla-produced, Beastie-sampling jam "Drop" with instrumentals for both + acapella for Runnin'. Recommended.

• music label: Delicious Vinyl 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

Exceptionally packaged, one-sided 10" pressing of James Blake's remarkable re-work of Feist's "Limit To Your Love", housed in a full-color sleeve. After pushing the boundaries of dubstep Blake has distilled his sound in to something completely different and original. Faltering pianos give way to waves of sub-base and dismantled percussion. And with his voice, which he tactfully unleashed on the listening public, it's all held together. A must for collectors and fans.

• music label: Atlas Recordings 2010

reviewed by The Voice 11/2011

Split release from the GRC and the MLB with smokin' remixes of their 2009 white label release of the same name. Up first is Greenwood Rhythm Coalition who funk out "Hollywood Thing," with even more Hancock flavored bass, infectious squiggle synths and shuffling percussion to put that boogie in your body. A excellent way to set the party off on the good foot! The B-side continues the journey into funky spaces with the endless disco vibe of Midnight Lab Band's remix of "Time Waits For No Man." That bassline keeps the groove on edge, while crisp drums and well placed synthwork keeps the mood sweet and fonkay. Quality as usual from Names You Can Trust with cool throwback spinner art reminiscent of those old school NY bootlegs. Recommended.

• music label: Names You Can Trust 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012

Fourth studio album from Dayton circa 1983. Dayton was one of the many funk acts to emerge from Ohio during the 70's/80's (Ohio Players, Zapp, Slave, Faze O, Dazz Band, and Bootsy's Rubber Band, to name a few) and by the time "Feel The Music" came out, they already had a couple hits to their name. Everyone knows the funk classic "Cutie Pie" from '81, but the joint here is "The Sound Of Music." The track is equally moving and uplifting with catchy melodies, fat drums, huge synths and lovely female vocals counter balanced by funked-out vocoders. This is a monster jam that is sure to put a smile on everyone on the dancefloor. Worth it for this one alone, but also check the grown n' sexy boogie vibe on "Out Tonite," or "Promise Me." 9 tracks for the 80's r&b and boogie lovers, full pic sleeve.

• music label: Capitol 1983

reviewed by snackmaster

Don Blackman's self-titled LP from 1982 is a staple digger record, being sampled numerous times by everyone from DJ Jazzy Jeff, Jay-Z, Slum Village, and Madlib, but that's not why you need this record - you need it 'cause it's a damn good album! The whole thing has such a great vibe to it - a rare blend of funk, jazz fusion, and soul - that could have only been made at this perfect time in space. Check the soulful grooves of "Hearts Desire," and "Holding You, Loving You," or the bold, bassy funk of "Let Your Conscience Be Your Guide," "Never Miss A Thing," "Yabba Dabba Doo" and "You Ain't Hip." Strangely, it's the only record released under Don Blackman's name, even though he appeared on many albums in the 70's and early 80's from Weldon Irvine, Lenny White, Tom Browne, and Bernard Wright. Comes in that iconic pic sleeve. We miss you Mr. Blackman. Recommended.

• music label: Arista 1982

reviewed by snackmaster

Jay-Z's second LP from 1997. Like Reasonable Doubt, In My Lifetime features a superb blend of club and street game tracks. Checkout side C, three banging club tracks in a row (and more importantly, mostly untouched by your average DJ): "Always Be My Sunshine" featuring Fox Brown and Babyface, "Who U Wit" with the bounce beat and keys (the LP's top production), and the Soul Makossa sampled "Face Off" featuring Sauce Money. On the street game side, checkout the Premier produced "Million and One Questions" and "Friend or Foe" but my pick here (and one of my personal Jay favorites) is the much sleeping on "Where I'm From"... Marcy son. Also check out the shifty "Streets is Watching" plus: The City is Mine, I Know What Girls Like, Imaginary Player, Lucky Me, Real Niggaz, Rap Game/Crack Game, and You Must Love Me. 3LP version.

• music label: Northwestside 1997

reviewed by the mgmnt

Click that first audio sample and prepared to be blown away: mongoloid drum break gives way to crispy west coast jazz-funk on "Moondial" (notably sampled by DJ Shadow and De La Soul). This 1978 album released on the short-lived (but rather potent) Dobre label is diggerous wall material, exchanging hands in the 2 hundy range in the original. And aside from "Moondial", there's some excellent moody jazz numbers (almost like a midwest soul-jazz meets west coast fusion scene), check out "My Woman, Bacchanal," and "Kaballa." You'll also find some extra breaks on "Funk It" if you got the itch. It all adds up to one of these digger pieces that lives up to the hype in an odd, all-frequency type of way. Exact pic sleeve reissue, recommended.

as sampled by DJ Shadow:

muaic label: Dobre Records 1978

reviewed by the mgmnt 07/2012

Supposedly this album was originally pressed in a batch of 500 for promo release. I went to A-1 to buy the repress and Roman put the original under my nose. I asked how much and he hit me in the gut... $150. Now that's that shit. Never mind that collector biz though. It's one of those records whose weight and respect has only grown in the years after it's release. Production credits all go to Diamond as his beats are early nineties at its finest, on the uptown upbeat shit. This LP single-handedly put D on many heads' top 5 producers lists. Hornet style on the classic Benson looped "Yo That's That Shit." Or how bout the Flaming Ember loop on "I'm Outta Here?" The singles"Best Kept Secret" and "Sally Got A One Track Mind?" What about the lesser known "Fuck What you Heard, or Check On Two?" It's much too much. Almost exact double LP reissue with labels. The original has a sticker. He took a blues break and he broke it.

• music label: Mercury 1992

reviewed by the mgmnt

Disco secret weapon revealed! Apparently this record has been a staple in DJ Harvey sets for years now, but has been incredibly hard to find due to a tiny private pressing on Morrhtyhm back in 1980. Thankfully, UK's Trunk Records has done a faithful repress (pic sleeve and all) so all the disco nerdus can get the goods at the nice price. The jam here is the title cut "It's Broken," that rocks hard on the quirky disco rock tip. Definitely a rare specimen of disco! Other tracks worth investigating: the slow motion cosmic groove of "Jungle Talk" and the uber-creepy, but hilarious "Van Man." Don't miss it!

• music label: Trunk Records 2012

reviewed by TKB 07/2012

Koudede Maman's first ever American release courtesy of Sublime Frequencies! Koudede is a key figure in the Agadez guitar scene, and here he delivers two scorching tracks ("Tassakne Tara" and "Golf") recorded live during his 2011 European tour. From the label, "The sinuous sound of the electrified West African guitar has long mesmerized listeners both at home in the Sahel and abroad, from the explosion of global phenomenons such as Tinariwen and Abdallah Oumbadougou to the recent emergence of the rawer sounds of Group Bombino and Group Inerane. Linking these first and third waves of the Tuareg guitar revolution is Koudede, an enigmatic figure who has stepped out of the shadows as one of the strongest songwriters of the Sahel scene. The Tuareg guitar revolution is inextricably linked to the the all-too-familiar struggle between a nomadic people whose age-old ways of living are bound to the landscape and the rise of modern nation-states and their categorical usurpation of the limited resources in a region. Like the sounds of those who came before and after him, Koudede’s music is forged in the fires of such political unrest and struggle. Born in Agadez (Niger), Koudede grew up in in the dust of the uranium mines of Arlite, between the foothills of the massif of Aïr and the sands of the Sahara. In his youth, Koudede joined the uprising and left Niger to take up arms in the rebel camps of Algeria and Libya. It was here that Koudede discovered the galvanizing force of the Tuareg music scene. From the young visionary who made his first guitar out of a tin can to his current avatar as the heir apparent to the legacy of Ali Farka Toure in West African guitar music, Koudede has blazed forth from a relatively small following in Agadez and Niamey to take the world by storm. His songs are rooted in the poignance of Tuareg lore, speaking of migration, of warrior virtues, of distant camps and difficult loves, and at the same time they reverberate with the modern chaos of warfare and the contemporary Tuareg crisis. This is the truest music of revolution - where the transcendence of historical poetry and the daily grit of human struggle are in dialogue, from verse to verse and refrain to refrain. Sublime Frequencies is proud to present the latest manifestation of Koudede’s musical journey." Limited one time press of 600.

• music label: Sublime Frequencies 2012

reviewed by Extravagant Traveler 07/2012

Heat alert! Anna Lunoe teams up with Sydney's Touch Sensitive for "Real Talk" - a heater that has all the right ingredients for peak-time madness on the dancefloor. Huge piano house breakdown? Check. Looped up diva vocals? Check. Retro 90's synths? Check. Basically if you drop this at the right time, the party will go off to the next level! Real easy to hear why this has been at the top of the dance charts for a minute now. The 12" also includes a collab with Flume on the chilled out tropical disco vibes of "I Met You" and the HMC Dirty House dub, that loops it up and adds a proper four on the floor bump. Recommended for "Real Talk".

• music label: Future Classic 2012

reviewed by Von Bee 07/2012