vinylcd -rock / indy rock / psyche-date

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• music label: Glassnote Entertainment Group 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 04/2013

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

• music label: Polydor 2013

reviewed by suicide bangs 04/2013

2008 found Baltimore based dream pop duo, Beach House, dropping their sophomore effort, Devotion. They took the opportunity to refine their sound and came through with bolder and brighter songs. The sense of eminent decay is still present, however they seem to have ditched the lo-fi aesthetic of their eponymous debut. Overall it's a consistently stronger effort than the previous release. They maintain their preference for skeletal percussion which helps to underscore their penchant for dense melodies. The vocals remain haunting as ever, with vocalist Victoria Legrand inviting us into the murky depths of her romantic consciousness. Gatefold double vinyl.

music label: Carpark Records 2008

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino

Oh, the hazy shades of autumn tinged music. Beach House traffic in the tradition of the boy-girl duo making love-sick, narcotic rock and roll. Their particular sound is filtered through an orange lens as the seasons transition from warm to cold. The duo of singer/organist Victoria Legrand and guitarist Alex Scally will gently draw you into their world and then disappear like ghosts. Though they may bring to mind the Shoegazers as they moved away from the noise and distortion, their's is an altogether more intimate affair. It's dream pop from the foot of the bed, with a warmth that has not been felt in quite sometime. Do yourself a favor and get familiar with the sounds of Beach House. You will be more than happy that you did.

• music label: HeartBreakBeat Records 2010

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 04/2013

Special limited edition mono pressing for Record Store Day 2013! This is the authorized Hendrix Family Edition of the original mono mixes of the debut single of the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Limited edition, individually numbered pressing so get yours while you can.

• music label: Legacy 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Martin Hannett produced the first two Joy Division albums including "Love Will Tear Us Apart." Cleopatra got a hold of his master tapes and have released alternate, remastered versions of those albums. This single feature the Division's most beloved tracks: "Love" and "Transmission."

• music label: Cleopatra 2009

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

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

• music label: Glassnote Entertainment Group 2009

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 04/2013

Over 15 years in the making, MBV is My Bloody Valentine's third album. No need for first person "I have a Loveless tattoo" or post-blog-house journalism piece. Just know that this is good! Or even great. And normally I get a little taken back by expensive vinyl pressings, but I feel like you're getting Kevin Shields' blood mixed into the 180g vinyl. The vinyl was recorded, mixed, and mastered in analogue, why mess it up with some compression? But if you're inclined or lazy, there's a CD version with its own packaging included. Recommended.

• music label: Pickpocket 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

The much anticipated sophomore effort from James Blake is here! Overgrown comes just two years since Blake's breakout debut, and finds the young UK producer delving fully into his sound. The whole album is a intense and introspective experience - even with a guest a verse from the RZA (on "Take A Fall For Me"), there is nothing for the dancefloor here. Instead, your ears are treated to lush, melancholic textures, haunting melodies, and slow burning rhythms that transport you to a very personal space, a beautiful sonic reality. As much as I'll miss Blake's early instrumental dubstep experiments, the awesomeness of his current musical direction cannot be denied - and as a singer/song writer, the music contained here is proof that he is on a whole other level. 10 tracks total on 180g vinyl, housed in beautiful gatefold sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: Republic Records 2013

reviewed by TKB 04/2013

Opening salvo from Vampire Weekend's third album Modern Vampires of the City. Pic sleeve 7" features "Diane Young" and "Step."

• music label: XL Recordings 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

A diggers classic. Released in 1971 by former members of King Crimson, this was their sole release and has become a modern cult classic. "Tomorrow's People" is blatant offender here: an orgasmic concoction of drums, British accents, and thematic jamming. Once you wipe the white stuff from the corner of your mouth, the rest of the album falls into place as a Eames lounger long player. "Flight Of The Ibis" is particularly gorgeous and wouldn't sound out of place on the White Album or the green one. When I think of how digger's psyche albums should sound, the Birdman trilogy is what I hear in my ears: full of twists, sample-able snippets, and questions (more than answers). Glossy gatefold, french pressing.

• music label: Klimt 197/ 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

First time reissue of this compilation from 1993. Features 17 singles, b-sides, and rarities from 1988–1993. At the time of writing this review, this is still unavailable on any of download sites. A must for JAMC fans and infinitely better than Barbed Wire Kisses (IMO).

• music label: "1972" 1993 / 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

First reissue of Stereolab's fifth studio album 1997! Their sound here had tightened up even more (read: less rock-ish) since Emperor Tomato Ketchup, probably influenced by the popularity of the downtempo scene at the time. "Miss Modular" was a pretty big single at the time and "Diagonals" was a beathead favorite. They even dabbled a little in drum and bass ("Parsec"). Double vinyl, recommended.

• music label: "1972" 1997 / 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

Reissue of Stereolab's fourth studio album (1996) on double vinyl gatefold (The original pressing was a smushed single LP)! Definitely one of their more accessible albums, the album bounces from focused grooves ("Motronomic Underground") to their signature whimsy pop ("Cybele's Reverie") to some weirdness ("Percolator") and finally into their signature electronica-fuzz ("Les Yper-Sound"). Recommended.

• music label: "1972" 1997 / 1996

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

Proper pic sleeve reissue of this early LCD 12" from 2004. Yeah was the follow up to LCD's breakout track "Losing My Edge," and was kind of a sleeper that has definitely stood the test of time and is worth a revisit. Here's what we said about it back in '04: Having released one of last year's best singles (Losing My Edge), James Murphy is back with another brilliant extension of his LCD Soundsystem. LCD records seem to speak to those kids sick of the scene, who want their 12" to retain interest longer than the next trend, but without sacrificing up to the minute relevance. An impossible feat, but listening to tracks like "Yeah (Crass Version)" will make you a believer. The song writing and composition are the foundations that the track is built on, with enough rock pretentiousness and sleazy analog to keep you interested. It takes a little more to keep our jaded ears interested these days, and this is might be it. "Yeah (Pretentious Version)" is a completely alternate version, offering a cleaner instrumental take on the track. Also includes the "Clap-a-Pella." Recommended.

• 032613

Limited edition reissue of Mayer's major label debut, now on 7" vinyl! This How Do You Do? boxset features the whole album spread across 12 individual 45's, each with the instrumental version (previously unreleased) on the flip and housed in its own pic sleeve. What's more is the all the covers connect within the included plastic display sheet to create a 4 x 3 mosaic! How cool is that?! The whole thing comes neatly packaged in an individually numbered, black on black hard case. Here's what we said about How Do You Do? upon its original release in 2011: After the critically acclaimed A Strange Arrangement, Mayer Hawthorne releases another modern soul/r&b masterpiece.How Do You Do? is a more polished and mature effort, where the Detroit artist explores more of the retro sounds that made him a phenomenon, with a glossy, modern touch. "Finally Falling" is a fun, more uptempo piece of pop-soul with an addictive hook, "Dreaming" showcases a similar lighthearted approach. "The Walk," with its 60s-inspired backing vocals, awesome horn stabs, and funny lyrics, is Mayer doing what he does best, and "Hooked," a Motown-inspired cut, is another standout. "No Strings," the warm, bubbly lead single produced by the Classixx, rounds out the album, which from the start to end is full of honest, achy, and feel-good moments that'll force you to keep pressing play. Limited edition of 2013, recommended.

• music label: Universal 2013

reviewed by nakinboots 10/2011

Deadstock find! Here's what we wrote when it first came out in 2007: Money Studies kicks off its new "Lost Masters" reissue series by resurrecting this impossible to find mix from Diplo and fellow Philly record hoarder Tony Tripledouble. Originally self-released on CDR in an edition of less than 500 (plus a few handmade cassettes), AEIOU 2 is over an hour of the finest and rarest breaks drawn from Diplo & Tripledouble's extensive collections of psych, funk and obscure soundtracks. Some of the breaks in this mix have gone on to achieve classic status - still no tracklist to help you out, but now it comes in a full-color digipak designed by PH. And if you ever wanted to hear Diplo skratching, right here's the spot. Recommended.

• music label: Money Studies 2007

reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red 08/2007

Record Store Day 2013 Exclusive! The mysterious Jandek emerges on Jackpot Records for a limited box set containing some of his most important works. This Jandek Vinyl Box set contains Ready For The House, Six and Six, and Chair Beside A Window in a deluxe hardbound slipcase with 3 exclusive 24" x 24" posters and full Corwood catalog insert. A must-have for Jandek fans and a great introduction to the cult outsider musician's work for new followers. Only 500 hand numbered copies made exclusively for RSD.

• Contains Ready For The House, Six and Six, and Chair Beside A Window
• Packaged in a deluxe hardbound slipcase
• Hand numbered
• 3 exclusive 24" x 24" JANDEK posters
• Includes full Corwood catalog insert
• 500 copies only
• music label: Jackpot Records 2013

reviewed by TKB 05/2013

Limited edition blue vinyl pressing for Record Store Day 2013! Goat's World Music was one of 2012's standout records with its unique combination of disparate sounds and influences. The drum heavy "Run To Your Mama" gets the remix treatment on this second of two installments. The remixes featured here bring out the darker side of Goat. If you're looking for something to play out then head straight to the Cage & Aviary version. Otherwise, throw on the visual effects and prepare to trip the eff out. The various mixes bring out different elements of the track, showing you that there is more than one side to Goat.

• Exclusive remixes of Goat's "Run to Your Mama"
• Limited edition blue vinyl
• 2000 copies only
• music label: Rocket Recordings 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Limited edition blue vinyl pressing for Record Store Day 2013! Goat's World Music was one of 2012's standout records with its unique combination of disparate sounds and influences. The drum heavy "Run To Your Mama" gets the remix treatment on this first of two installments. The sound here is dub heavy, none of the typical "dance" remix business. Spacey effects, dubbed out vocals and plenty of reverb. The various mixes bring out different elements of the track, showing you that there is more than one side to Goat.

• Exclusive remixes of Goat's "Run to Your Mama"
• Limited edition blue vinyl
• 2000 copies only
• music label: Rocket Recordings 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Highly sought after Italian cosmic heater alert! Originally released in 1981 on the tiny Ivory Coast imprint, West African Music, both tracks offer a near minimal techno approach that proved to be way ahead of their time. Codek's "Closer" might be the pick here with its chugging rhythm, monotone vocals and deadly arpeggios. Excellently primed for the dancefloor. Flip the record over and prepare for something completely unexpected. Falsetto chants lead the way for off kilter rhythms and all manner of funky synth squiggles and punchy drum programming. Limited edition repress.

• music label: West African Music 2013

reviewed by Señor Sueño Latino 03/2013

Rhye hit the Lab office like a airborne strain of zombie purp . From particular PH to mainstream Stony to the stubborn Pro-Squad, Rhye was infecting us hard with its hot-tang Norwegian vocals and expert-level production. "Open" had us open for a week, then we heard a rumor that Innovative Leisure / Do-Over head Jamie Strong was actually behind the vocals. Could this version of Lab Crying Game be true? After some research, we were able to find info that Mike Milosh (Plug Research) and Robin Hannibal (Owusu & Hannibal) were, in fact, Rhye. Apparently after "Open" dropped, there was a major label bidding war which resulted in this major label debut album. I've been bumping this for a couple weeks now, and it only gets better. Great album for vinyl listening too. Gatefold cover with free download of the album.

• Music Label: Polydor 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 03/2013

Record Store Day 2013 Exclusive! A pair of raw, rockin' cuts from Hanni El Khatib on super limited 7" vinyl. We only have a few of these left over from RSD and you can bet they'll go quick. Comes in hand silkscreened and numbered jackets by Hit+Run. Only 500 copies made and already sold out everywhere else (and Innovative Leisure even ran a second press). Act fast!

• music label: Innovative Leisure 2013

reviewed by Von Bee 05/2013

One of the biggest records of the past year and it practically snuck up on us! It's the work of an intentionally enigmatic collective from the backwoods of Sweden. According to Goat, Korpilombolo - the small village in the north of the country that the band hails from - has a mysterious, long-established tradition of voodoo worship, and local priests have been serenading the townsfolk with various strains of far-out, pan-global incantations for generations. World Music captures the current strain of this mystical practice. Perhaps it is all a little hyperbolic, but the music definitely is not. As much as Goat weave a tangled creation myth, their debut is a tapestry of styles infused with a heavy psychedelic punch. There's strains of krautrock and Funkadelic mixed with Fela Kuti's afrobeat and the classic rock of the UK. They don't mimic any one of these genres, though. Instead the result is a distillation into something completely new. Drawing on their folk tradition Goat make psychedelic pandemonium for the new world. Translucent clear vinyl in die cut sleeve. Recommended.

• music label: Rocket Recordings 2012

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 03/2013

Limited edition blue vinyl reissue for Record Store Day 2013! The Glove was a one off collaboration between the Cure's Robert Smith and Steven Severin of Siouxsie & The Banshees. Nothing short of a goth's match made in heaven! Smith, who's vocals are conspicuously absent for the majority of the record, was prohibited from singing in another band by his record company. This led the duo to enlist Zoo dancer Jeanette Landray, who was dating Banshees drummer Budgie at the time, to sing a majority of the tracks in the original release. There are strains of both musicians' bands throughout the album, but the sound is unique to The Glove.

• Individually numbered
• Blue colored vinyl
• music label: Rhino 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Limited edition 4LP pressing for Record Store Day 2013! The landmark experimental album from The Flaming Lips, Zaireeka gets the heavy duty reissue treatment. All 4 LPs are designed to be played simultaneously to create a simulated live effect. For this release the album has been fully remastered and features brand new packaging too boot! Each LP comes in its own unique color, and they are housed in a box made specifically for this album. One for fans and collectors alike.

• Remastered by the band at Bernie Grundman Mastering for this exclusive edition
• Unique art and packaging specific to this release
• Each disc to be pressed on a different and unique color of vinyl
• Four disc vinyl 12" LP Deluxe Edition Box Set
• Four discs, designed to be played on cue and simultaneously, producing nothing short of a live performance effect
• music label: Warner Bros. 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

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

• music label: Jemp Records 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 04/2013

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

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

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Record Store Day 2013 Exclusive! Enjoy The Experience: Homemade Records 1958-1992 is the largest collection of American private press vinyl ever amassed and presented, featuring over 1,000 reproductions of the cover art of self released titles from 1958-1992. The most obscure records you've never heard of, in genre's that make you do double takes - from Lesbian Folk to Psychedelic Disco, Awkward Teen Pop to Pizza Parlor Organ Music, plus records from Religious Cult Leaders to Swank Sinatra Imitators - are all in here! Though the book highlights many cultural oddities, it also compiles a glimpse into some of Funk, Soul, and Disco rarities that are highly sought out, but almost NEVER seen. Curated and edited by New York’s Boo Hooray gallery owner Johan Kugelberg (who has penned past books Born In The Bronx, Punk, and Norwegian Black Metal) along with a gang of some of the world’s most revered record collectors, Enjoy The Experience: Homemade Records 1958-1992 is a must-have for fans of rare and hard to find records. This is the limited edition RSD version that comes with a companion reproduction of Century Records promotional 7-inch on "How To Press Your Own Record" on clear vinyl.

• Hardcover 512 page book packaged in removable Obi strip
• includes a download card to select offerings featured in the book
• Comes with a clear vinyl reproduction of a Century Records promotional 7-inch on "How To Press Your Own Record"
• 11" x 9" x 1.25"

Limited edition hand screened pressing for Record Store Day 2013! Numero Group has reached into the vaults to bring you the beginnings of seminal post rockers Unwound. Here is what they have to say about this stellar release: The first volley in our massive Unwound reissue campaign lands as Big Baby, a previously unreleased album's worth of material that the band cut in 1990 while still students at Tumwater High, operating as a trio under the Giant Henry moniker. "Tumwater High has always been known as a 'redneck' school," guitarist/vocalist Justin Trosper reflects in the album's liner notes. "People took football and AC/DC equally seriously. The smoking area was rich in facial hair. We were into punk rock, but we weren't really 'punk.' We thought punk was funny. After all this was the late '80s. Post-punk was a memory, and everything was totally damaged and weird. We were kind of more with the times than the catalog-punks with mohawks and bondage pants." Recorded in original Unwound drummer Brandt Sandeno's parents' basement over a weekend in the winter of 1991, the 12-track, vinyl-only Big Baby captures Vern Rumsey and Justin Trosper in their Metal Circus and Bleach-influenced halcyon days. In true DIY spirit, we've hand-screened the entire pressing of 1050 LPs, with three cover variants featuring Justin, Vern, and Brandt looking too young even for Tumwater High.

• 1st ever release of Unwound’s Tumwater High-era recordings
• three hand-screened cover variants (ships randomly)
• 1050 copies only
• music label: Numero Group 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Limited edition 150 gram vinyl pressing for Record Store Day 2013! Codeine's What About The Lonely captures the band at the height of their career. Recorded direct from the mixing board at a stop on Codeine's November 1993 swing through the Midwest opening for Mazzy Star, the album finds the trio of Stephen Immerwahr, John Engle, and Doug Scharin running through their hits at Chicago's notorious Lounge Ax for a crowd of chatty 120 Minutes fans. Gastr Del Sol's David Grubbs joins for two songs on guitar, slinking on and off the two foot stage with little fanfare, but leaving an indelible mark on the performance.

• Live recording from 1993 at Chicago’s notorious Lounge Ax
• Features Gastr Del Sol’s David Grubbs
• 1st time ever released
• 150 gram vinyl
• 2000 copies only
• music label: Numero Group 2013

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 05/2013

Bjork's Crystalline remix series was ambitious and flawed. The dizzying array of limited edition singles was confusing and pricey. Acute record collectors, however, immediately focused on the gem of the series: the Omar Souleyman remixes. Syrian musician Omar Souleyman remixes "Crystalline, Tesla" and "Mawal" in his signature Arab music style offering a completely new take on icelandic imp music. Original copies with spectacular pic sleeve (ps. these are going for $40 on the secondhand market).

• music label: One Little Indian 2011

reviewed by the mgmnt 03/2013

Critically acclaimed, listener approved, another beautiful album from Yo La Tengo. Ranked as of the best of albums of the 1990s by Pitchfork, Spin, and Paste Magazine there is no denying the impact I Can Hear The Heart Beating As One made on the masses. Introducing a more mature sound with further exploration of what was to become their signature genre defying sound. Ranging from Bossa Nova to Shoegaze, Folk to Indie Pop the Jersey trio cemented their presence as one of the most important bands of our generation. Stand outs include the ever reflective 'Autumn Sweater', 'Sugarcube', and their cover of the Beach Boys' 'Little Honda'. Matador records reissued this pop masterpiece on 180 gram double vinyl. Recommended.

• music label: Matador Records 2009

reviewed by taco vato 3/2013

Though originally making the scene as a traditional Bossa Nova performer / songwriter, starting in the early 70's Valle experimented with new sounds finding influence in American rock, soul, and folk. Light In The Attic, known for their expansive catalog of long lost treasures, curated in a four part series hand picking from Valle's vaults what are deemed to be the most adventurous in his recordings. In 1971 Valle, with a group of like minded hippies, rented a beach shack with all intentions to make music and soul search. His goal to change the sound he helped establish and go in a different direction. Vento Sul finds a common ground of Ziggy era Bowie without the glam and Veloso's Tropicalia movement. The album features extensive liner notes by San Francisco-based writer Allen Thayer (Wax Poetics) with exclusive interview content and song-by-song breakdown from Marcos himself. Comes housed in gatefold, 180-gram wax LP with original art expanded on a gatefold old-school “tip-on” jacket. Recommended.

• music label: Light In The Attic 2013

reviewed by fogo de chow 2/2013

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

• music label: 4AD 2013

reviewed by Teenager From Mars 2/2013

Double vinyl, 180g pressing of Velvet Underground's legendary show at La Cave in 1968. At the time of this live recording, the Velvet Underground was going through major changes. John Cale had left the band and his replacement had only been in the band for a couple days (this was his first performance with the band)! Despite all this, VU turn in an incredible performance at the small Cleveland coffee house, playing several then-unreleased songs with tons of energy and awesome guitar solos. This is actually one of the very few recordings from the period between White Light/White Heat and their self-titled album, and the awesome performance definitely makes up for the lo-fi recording.

• music label: Keyhole 2012

reviewed by TKB 02/2013

Record Store Day 2010 Deadstock find! Taken from their Wolfgang Amadeus album, Fences saw a number of remixes being the obvious banger on the album... with a few others. This special edition pressing featured a remix available nowhere else from 25 Hours A Day. The original is a midtempo groover that sets the mood, and the remix is more up beat perfect for those bedroom dance parties. Limited edition pressing on Hot Pink vinyl.

• Glassnote Entertainment Group 2010

reviewed by Carlos Mansion 2/2013

One of the best and most surprising collaborations of 2012 gets a proper 7" release! "Baby" was an obvious highlight off Ariel Pink's Mature Themes, a sweet and sensual cover ballad featuring vocals from Stones Throw boogie maestro Dam-Funk. Check the smooth blend of rock and soul vibes, a perfect jam to rock to with your baby. Flipside features the original 1979 version by Donnie & Joe Emerson which is just as awesome, if not more so. Pressed up on limited edition "baby blue" vinyl as part of Light In The Attic’s 10 year anniversary. Comes in custom LITA juke-box style sleeve in a poly bag with custom die-cut sticker. Recommended.

• music label: Light In The Attic 2013

reviewed by TKB 02/2013

Remastered stereo pressing of The Beatles' Revolver. The Beatles' seventh studio album, released in 1966 and produced by George Martin - often considered one of the greatest achievements in recorded music history. Revolver found the Beatles moving from the folk rock-inspired sound of their previous effort Rubber Soul, and further into the realm of electric guitar and effects. It also marks the beginning of the Beatles' psychedelic era, especially with tracks like "Yellow Submarine," "I'm Only Sleeping," "Tomorrow Never Knows," and the sitar-laced "Love You To," paving the way for <i>Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band</i>, <i>Magical Mystery Tour</i> and The White album.  Also features "Good Day Sunshine," "Eleanor Rigby," "She Said She Said," "Here, There, Everywhere," and more. Heavyweight 180g pressing, recommended.

• music label: Parlophone 2012

reviewed by TKB 02/2013

Numero Group continues to unearth some truly surprising gems! For their latest they turn to the Twin Cities circa 1978. Brothers Andre and Pierre Lewis, flush with insurance money from a recently overturned Buick Century, embark on a recording spree through the Minneapolis / St. Paul area's many studios. Their accidentally misspelled debut features a fiery brew that is equal parts libidinous Parliament funk and Earth, Wind & Fire's incendiary sophistication. It expertly captures the Minneapolis Sound’s founding fathers at the paradigm-shifting confluence of funk, jazz, and pop. Only about 200 copies are thought to have been pressed at the time of its release, and originals are hard to come by if you see them at all. The slow burning "Got To Be Something Here" features a young Prince on background vocals and guitar. But even without his involvement The Lewis Connection is a solid piece of Twin Cities funk. Recommended.

• music label: P.A. Productions 2012

reviewed by Joey Coco 01/2013

Producer extraordinaire Geoff Barrows of Portishead fame steps out on his own to form a band of non-conformists standing in the shadows of Kraut pioneers Neu!, Conrad Schnitzler, and Amon Duul. 2012's ">>" was a lab favorite getting loads of play from the staff. Barrows having his foot in many door ways never sticks to a particular style for very long. The one unifying factor is that regardless of what genre he creates, it's always spot on and done inexplicably well. The latest from Beak> comes in 7 inch form with two tracks that continue the more straight forward approach of ">>". 'Mono' takes a synth lead with a Klaus Dinger-esque Motoric beat that recalls distant memories of driving down the autobahn. 'Kenn' is pure dirge psychedelia! Sludge drums, overdriven bass guitar, that builds to an epic freak out. The 7" comes house in full color pic sleeve and is pressed on black vinyl. Recommended

• music label: Invada Records 2012

reviewed by gene jacket 1/2013