Sophomore studio album from Reading's Slowdive. Souvlaki was originally recorded in 1992 in the wake of the harsh criticism the band had received for the debut, Just For A Day. Nearly 40 songs were recorded and rerecorded before Creation Records boss Alan McGee dismissed them. The band would go back to the studio, writing a letter to ambient savant Brian Eno asking him to produce the album. Eno agreed to collaborate, but not produce the album. His presence can be felt throughout the album and the two tracks he contributed to, "Sing" and "Here She Comes," are among some of the best on Souvlaki. And there is so much more to dig in to. The bass-driven psychedelic dub of "Souvlaki Space Station," or the swirling "Machine Gun" are good places to start. "When The Sun Hits" is perfectly uplifting, soothing and beautiful. More than 20 years on Souvlaki stands as one of the defining moments of shoegaze and dream pop. Ten tracks in all. Released by Music On Vinyl on 180 gram vinyl.

• 180g black vinyl pressing
• original release year: 1993
• music label: Music On Vinyl 2011

reviewed by Michu Meszaros 06/2016