TURNTABLE LAB

Atomic Forest
Obsession (w/ 44 Page Booklet) CD

mind-blowing Indian psych rarity

Now-Again Records presents an important document of India's little know psychedelic rock period. Obsession collects a wealth of rare and unreleased psychedelic rock and funk from the various incarnations of the Atomic Forest. The Atomic Forest's mix of blistering, fuzzy rock and synth-lead funk inspired collectors the world over to fork over thousands of dollars for original copies of their solitary release, Obsession '77. Part of the interest certainly stemmed from its liberal doses of searing fuzz guitar. Part of it sprung from the oddity of it all: India, a country that had, quite literally, churned out tens of thousands of albums during psych- and hard-rock’s heyday, only produced this one, lonely psychedelic album? Part of it sprung from the album's rarity: unknown for years, Obsession '77 suddenly became a top want on every global-rock collector's short-list. Now, packaged in a paste on CD Sleeve with O-Card a, this ungodly fusion of funk and psychedelia is available to all. Includes 44 page booklet with Egon's extensive liner notes and annotation, story behind their genesis are, never before seen photos, and ephemera. Recommended.
reviewed by Now-Again


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Al Kent
The Best Of Disco Demands Compiled (Limited Edition 5 Disc Set) CD

lost disco heaters compiled and re-edited

BOO-YAO! BBE has been teaming up with Al Kent over the past few years to put out some mind blowing compilations of lost disco heaters, but this one takes the cake! For their latest collaboration, the label has compiled all 5 volumes(!) of Kent's Disco Demands series into one massive 5 CD set (and you know if anyone has enough rare disco gems to fill 5 CDs worth of material, it's Al Kent). Along with impossible to find original cuts the compilation features a ton of exclusive re-edits that Kent has made a name for himself with. Here's what he had to say about the release: "The Disco Demands series started sometime in the early 2000s - I couldn't give you an exact year because it didn't feel like a big deal, so I never noted it. I simply wanted to put out a compilation of some records I really liked and maybe make a little of the money back I was spending on them. Buy some food and stuff. There's always been Disco comps around of course but there was rarely anything that strayed too far from the standards; the same songs kept appearing over and over again, or the comps would feature records you could pick up anywhere for little money. I've never seen the point in that. I gave up judging a record on its value or rarity a long time ago but surely there's more to disco than Exodus, Martin Circus, Mass Production and all those Salsoul, West End and bloody Prelude records. So it was a nice surprise to find that there were other people out there who thought the same way. Volume 1 was pretty straightforward - just some nice records, with the only edit being an instrumental of "Disco Socks"; a strange, thinly veiled reference to the disco sucks movement. Then on Volume 2 I included a few of my edits and introduced the cover up concept to the disco world. That caused a bit of controversy, which of course I loved. And so it continued for five volumes. What we have here then is the full series, give or take one or two cuts, all remastered, many re-re-edited, with lots of nice naked pictures to boot." 45 tracks spread over 5 CDs and housed in individual sleeves with sexy cover art. Must-have release for the disco heads, RECOMMENDED.
reviewed by The Voice


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VA
Jukebox Jam!: Blues And Rhythm Revue CD

top-notch compilation of obscure blues and r&b from the 50s/60s

DJ Liam Large started The Jukebox Jam club night in 2007. A monthly gathering centered around "authentic US rhythm & blues," the party helped the "slow but steady spread" of similar nights and in the process began reissuing, as limited edition 45s, "hard to find, under-exposed, forgotten r&b obscurities" in conjunction with Jazzman Records. Jukebox Jam!: Blues and Rhythm Revue pulls from the 45 series with Liam adding 8 more songs, with tracks from the likes of Etta James (r.i.p.), Frances Burr, Big Maybelle, Jack Tucker, Eunice Davis, Terry Timmons, Barga Benitez and more promising to "get you off your feet and moving." 22 songs total, includes extensive original liner notes and never-before-seen pictures.
reviewed by nakinboots


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VA
The Original Sound Of Cumbia 1948-79 Compiled by Quantic 2CD

definitive compilation of early Colombian cumbia & porro, curated by Quantic

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." Disc 1, containing close to 30 tracks, explores the stunning and joyful origins of cumbia & porro, with disc 2, again with nearly 30 tracks, revealing the key figures - Alberto Pacheco, Tono Fernandez, 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. 55 tracks total, comes with 40-page booklet containing liner notes, cover art, etc. Highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots


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Dom Thomas
Dreams Of San Antonio CD

balearic beat, bongo rock, acid disco and more

Another mind-blowing comp of unheard, unknown, and under-appreciated gems unearthed by Dom Thomas on Brutal Music! If you've been keeping tabs, this is his fourth release on Brutal Music, and once again he delivers in aces, this time with a fresh "balearic" (and I use the term loosely) slant. Here's what the label says: "The term Balearic when attributed to musical style often leaves the most ardent music aficionados scratching their heads in a confused sweat. Attempting to sum up an infinite set of sounds from disparate backgrounds and eras is no easy task. The original manifesto of what makes something "balearic" is a loose definition: there are no rules, anything is everything below 122BPM. Here on Dreams Of San Antonio Dom Thomas embarks on his fourth Brutal Music sonic adventure, celebrating the ambiguity of the genre to craft a sublime personal journey through his own skewed vision of the Balearic sound. A fantasy trip through Balearic Beat, Bongo Rock, Acid Disco and Far Flung Folk. A misty-eyed look back to the embryonic days of Pacha and Cafe del Mar married with dreamy images of Barbet Schroeder's '69 Ibizian paean "More." Amazing stuff well worth the price of admission. Recommended!
reviewed by Von Bee


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P&P Records
Hits Hits Hits Box Set (Serato Control Vinyl Pair, 3 DVDs, Book + Poster)

massive collection of disco gems from P&P

The funky sound of Harlem is coming at you in a major way with this absolutely massive collection from P&P Records and Serato Pressings! Peter Brown and Patrick Adam's legendary label has brought the world countless disco classics and this super deluxe boxset is a testament to the P&P legacy with 197 remastered songs from 88 groups in both high quality wav and 320 mp3 over three loaded data DVDs. That's over 19 1/2 hours (or 15GB) of pure funky disco music! And if that wasn't enough, you also get 2x exclusive Serato 12"s - one with Mistafide's "Equidity Funk(1)" and the other with Cloud One's "Don't Let This Rainbow Pass Me By(2)", both backed with official Serato Control Tones on swirly psychedelic green vinyl. The records are housed in custom disco sleeves and are packaged in a matching box with 32-page hardcover book(1) and a sexy 18"x24" poster of Queen Constance Records. You can't go wrong with this one, highly recommended!
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - crate classics / funk soul disco 12" / funk soul disco - comps / and more

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Psychemajik
Heelin' Feelin' Edits 12"

cosmic disco rock edits

Limited edition 12" from Psychemagik. These guys have been murdering the edits for a minute now (and have even dropped some stellar original material) and for the first in a series of four limited edit releases they delve into rare cosmic disco territory with the intergalactic vocoder groover "Boogie Drome(1)." Apparently the original is stupid rare and sought-after so get this version while you can. The flipside keeps it hot with the stomping italo rock burner "Diamond Star(2)." Both sides taken from the forthcoming Healin' Feelin' full length so be on the lookout for that one!
reviewed by The Kosmische Beard

file under:
dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / re-edits - disco + italo + cosmic + rockish / re-edits / new disco / cosmic / edits / and more

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In Flagranti
Skematic Tracks Vol. 1 EP

dirty electro disco house

In Flagranti switch up it up a bit on the first volume of their Skematics Tracks series. Though they are best known for their dirty disco style, these tracks find the In Flagranti exploring uncharted zones of looped up electro jack, and funky schitzo house. Check "Paroxysm(1)" that seamlessly fuses abstract vocal chops, jackin' drums and flipped detroit style chords and the heavy bumps of "Aspiration(2)." "Consumer Goods(3)" is more familiar IF style, an infectious disco loop topped with dirty effects for freaky late night excursions on the dancefloor. Good to see the dudes venturing in new directions while still retaining that signature In Flagranti grit.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
new electro + electro rock + rave / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / vinyl new arrivals / new disco / cosmic / edits / and more

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Pulp Disco & The Outcasts
Overnight To Dusseldorf (Ashley Beedle) 12"

krautrock inspired dance remix by Ashley Beedle

Another Ashley Beedle presentation. Pulp Disco & The Outcasts is an act on Beedle's Out Hear Audio imprint. For this remix 12", they handed over the original version(1) (spacey, electronica with french vocals), and Beedle (along with studio partner Darren Morris) sprinkled his magic dust and re-cut the track as an umptempo Komische-style burner. What's that mean exactly? Deep bass, lively percussion, spacey synth accents, and a general sense of the unfamiliar. Features two remix versions(2,3). Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / and more

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Human Egg (Jean-Pierre Massiera)
Human Egg LP

odd french funk rock

Straight from a lost space transmission is Jean-Pierre Massiera's freakiest funk project: Human Egg. This earth-friendly version tells the story of the legendary French producer, a bizarre blend of Joe Meek and Giorgio Moroder, recording from his cockpit of a studio in Antibes, France. Under guises and with a mass of French musicians, Massiera released innumerable amounts of library-music, prog, early techno, and disco. Cult disco hits "Space Woman" and "Love to Fly", recorded with Herman's Rocket and Venus Gang respectively, get play here and there. Human Egg, recorded in 1978, is his journey into the funk of tomorrow, complete with otherworldly vocals, fuzzy guitars, and a wild assortment of crazily produced grooves (think Stax records gone to Mars). Classic cut "Love Like This(1)" was tipped by Madlib at a point in time. Also includes the strut "Feeling on My Mind(2)," ballad "Rainbows All Around(3)," and general oddball jam "Onomatopaeia(4)." Highly collectible both for its musical content and that mind-blowing cover.
reviewed by A. Tomorrow

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / various rock + everything else / funk soul disco - albums / and more

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MF Doom
Dime Box (Picture Disc + Puzzle)

classic Doom track on pic disc 45 w/ exclusive puzzle

Special edition box set from Metalface Records featuring the classic Doom cut "Rhymes Like Dimes(1)" and instrumental on a fitting dime-like pic disco 45! Also included is a 150 piece puzzle of the cover art by Mmm Food and Operation Doomsday artist Jason Jagel (finished puzzle measures out to 16"x16"). Recommended.


reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
stones throw shop / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / new vinyl - hip-hop / mf doom + related / and more

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The Specials & Amy Winehouse
You're Wondering Now / Ghost Town (Live At V Festival) 7"

live renditions of classic ska tunes

Back in the summer of 2009, Amy Winehouse jumped on stage during The Specials performance and made history as she sang along to classic ska tunes "Ghost Town(1)" and "You're Wondering Now(2)." Amy's voice is a perfect complement to The Specials sound, she will be greatly missed! Pressed on limited marbled vinyl, complete with parodied cover art from the Specials debut LP.
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / and more

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De La Soul
Buhloone Mindstate 2LP

hip-hop classic on double vinyl

Deluxe, double vinyl import reissue of the classic third De La Soul album. It's one of those rare records you don't even have to think about skipping tracks on (these don't seem to exist anymore). Everybody even knows the Japanese group's verse on "Long Island Wildin(1)." The guests on here work perfectly, especially Maceo Parker laying down something beautiful on the instrumental "I Be Blowin(2)." The flipside's sleeper hit "I Am I Be(3)" echoes Maceo and balances the whole album, providing counter weight to the amped "Ego Trippin(4)" and "Eye Patch(5)." 16 tracks.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
new vinyl - hip-hop / vinyl new arrivals / hip-hop vinyl / middle school hip-hop

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Mayer Hawthorne
Green Eyed Love Remixes (Waajeed, Classixx) 12"

neo-soul with funk and disco remixes

"Green Eyed Love(1)" is one of the standout cuts from Mayer Hawthorne's A Strange Arrangement LP, a slow grooving serenade with plenty of Hawthorne's trademark falsetto laid on top. Two great remixes here, first from Stone's Throw's Waajeed(2), who ups the energy and turns it into a jazz/funk track with some great strings and backup vox to give it a little dramatic flair. The goldstar here, though, is the Classixx remix(3). The boys from LA turn it into a swing beat balearic number with fantastic arpeggios and just the right amount of reverb. We've been playing this one around the office for a minute (I know that Snack and Tkat are hooked), and it's one of my favorite remixes from '09. On the flip side you get instrumentals for all three, and to top it off the record is pressed on great looking transparent green vinyl. Recommended.
reviewed by Hires

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / downtempo + electronic - recommended / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / stones throw shop / and more

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Madvillain
Madvillainy Instrumentals 2LP

Madlib steeze. Complete instrumentals from Madvillainy album pressed on double vinyl. Let the music do the talking. Check: "Accordion(1)", "Meat Grinder(2)", "Raid(3)", "America's Most Blunted(4)", "Curls(5)", and my personal favorite "Figaro(6)".
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
downtempo + electronic - vinyl / stones throw shop / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / vinyl new arrivals / and more

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Aloe Blacc
I Need A Dollar / Take Me Back 12"

modern soul produced by Truth and Soul

Aloe Blacc is back and now he's got a live band backing him, namely Truth And Soul's The Expressions and El Michels Affair. The result is "I Need A Dollar(1)" and it sounds amazing as Aloe is proving to be a true soul man, just look at him on that cover! Much more than just an average rehash of retro styles, this is authenic soul that everyone can relate to (especially these days). HBO even got on board and swooped it for the opening of How To Make It In America! Also includes "Take Me Back(2)" and instrumentals for both. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / stones throw shop / funk soul disco 12" / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / and more

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Wee Down Boy
No Cure Disco (Diana Ross, Paper Dolls) 12"

hot disco edits of "Love Hangover" and Paper Dolls

The original Disconet version of Diana Ross' "Love Hangover" is one of those super useful tempo change records that always does the job of coolin' out the floor before bringing the heat up once again when the beat drops. This handy "No Cure Disco(1)" features that same breakdown and drop, but also adds an uptempo intro so you can actually mix it in a disco set before letting it breakdown to give the crowd that much needed breather. This is an indispesnsable tool for DJ's that won't leave the bag anytime soon! Also includes a great extended and filtered version of the Patrick Adam's produced underground disco classic "Get Down Boy" re-named as "Wee Down Boy(2)." Shout out to dailysession for the hook up - hot stuff!
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
house / deep house / remixes / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / re-edits - disco + italo + cosmic + rockish / re-edits / and more

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V/A
Hot Waves Sampler Vol. 2 EP

sexy house grooves

Here we go with another round o tracks from Hot Creations! This EP is a sampler of tracks from their second Hot Waves comp and features 4 more sexy house cuts to add the crate. Includes floor working grooves from Wildkats(1), Lee M Kelsall(2), Jakkin Rabbit(3), and Miguel Puente & Mejia(4). Haven't seen these names before, but from the sounds of things, you can probably expect to see them again! Fans of Hot Natured, Hot Creations, hot house, hot new disco, and hot things in general should definitely give a listen.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
new electro + electro rock + rave / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / new disco / cosmic / edits / cosmic + balearic + rock-ish / and more

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Dom Thomas
Dreams Of San Antonio 2LP

balearic beat, bongo rock, acid disco and more

Another mind-blowing comp of unheard, unknown, and under-appreciated gems unearthed by Dom Thomas on Brutal Music! If you've been keeping tabs, this is his fourth release on Brutal Music, and once again he delivers in aces, this time with a fresh "balearic" (and I use the term loosely) slant. Here's what the label says: "The term Balearic when attributed to musical style often leaves the most ardent music aficionados scratching their heads in a confused sweat. Attempting to sum up an infinite set of sounds from disparate backgrounds and eras is no easy task. The original manifesto of what makes something "balearic" is a loose definition: there are no rules, anything is everything below 122BPM. Here on Dreams Of San Antonio Dom Thomas embarks on his fourth Brutal Music sonic adventure, celebrating the ambiguity of the genre to craft a sublime personal journey through his own skewed vision of the Balearic sound. A fantasy trip through Balearic Beat, Bongo Rock, Acid Disco and Far Flung Folk. A misty-eyed look back to the embryonic days of Pacha and Cafe del Mar married with dreamy images of Barbet Schroeder's '69 Ibizian paean "More." Amazing stuff well worth the price of admission. 13 tracks over 2LPs, Recommended!
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / downtempo + electronic - recommended / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / funk soul disco - comps / and more

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The Rapture
How Deep Is Your Love (A-Trak, Populette Remixes) 12"

dance-rock anthem remixed

The Rapture's epic dance rock anthem "How Deep Is Your Love" gets a couple remixes here from A-Trak and Populette. A-Trak's "Dub For Mehdi(1)" version is dedicated to the late great DJ Mehdi and is a fitting homage with a fresh big room electro aesthetic that would have made Mehdi proud. A-Trak says, "I did this remix over the summer, and when I was close to finishing it, I played it to my friend, the irreplaceable DJ Mehdi. I was working on the main version of the remix, the vocal version. I knew I would make a few alternate edits during the mixdown. The funny thing was, Mehdi's favorite part was the ending! He suggested that I have that part come in earlier. My reaction was: that would work well for the dub version. And sure enough, when I finished mixing it down I made a dub with [his] suggestion. When I sent it to Mehdi shortly after, he responded (as a joke) that I should call it "Dub For Mehdi." This one's for you Memed." The Populette remix(2) takes the flip with punched up drums and twinkling arpeggios a plenty.
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
dfa + related / new electro + electro rock + rave / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / new disco / cosmic / edits / and more

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Mutant Beat Dance
Another World / New News Is Old News 12"

dark jackin' analog house grooves

Mutant Beat Dance is Traxx (aka underground acid house guru Melvin Oliphant III) and Beau Wanzer joining forces to bring the power of the Chicago underground sound straight to your dancefloor. These guys aren't pulling any punches and give it to you raw dog style with the dark jackin' vibes of "Another World(1)" and "NoNewsIsOldNews(2)." Play it loud, turn off the lights and watch all the freaks come out and make the walls start to sweat!
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new wave + no wave + electro / detroit - carl craig, theo parrish, moodymann / and more

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Knightlife
Serves You Right / Otherway (Emperor Machine Remix) 12"

new disco and cosmic house heat

Third release from the mighty Knightlife on Cut Copy's Cutters label. Both Knightlife I and Knightlife II have been tearing up dancefloors since their release with a sound that modernizes classic house and injects a bit of future disco vibes for good measure. Here on Serves You Right Knightlife has perfected his sound and has even added live vocals from AP to really get the floor juiced. The title track(1) takes it to a whole new level of "regal sophistifunk," with building precussion and synths, bug pianos, and vocals all geared to make people dance their asses off. Also includes "Otherway(2)", an equally effective floor worker with a sound that takes cues from early sample-based house and techno, and Emperor Machine's rework of "Serves You Right(3)."
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
new electro + electro rock + rave / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / new disco / cosmic / edits / cosmic + balearic + rock-ish / and more

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Escort
Cameleon Chameleon 12"

tropical disco vibes from NY disco band

"Cameloen Chameleon(1)" is the follow up to the hugely successful Cocaine Blues and finds NY disco band Escort goin' tropical with fun, sunny vibes that takes cues from Kid Creole and the Coconuts. The track rides a catchy midtempo groove with a latin/tropical twist and is chock full of catchy vocals and melodies to make the crowd move. The club mix injects some thumping 4/4 kicks and ups the tempo just enough to hit the dancefloor hard. Also includes the Club dub, recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / new disco / cosmic / edits / cosmic + balearic + rock-ish

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B Bravo
Kiss N' Tell EP

future funk

Debut release from London-based music and art collective Earnest Endeavours comes from B. Bravo, a core member of the Bay Area's Frite Nite crew. Here on Kiss N Tell, B. Bravo goes in on some heavy Dam-Funk approved modern funk grooves, kicking off with the killer opener and title track "Kiss N Tell(1)." This one has everything you liked about the early Joker releases, a super bouncey 140bpm RnB hybrid dipped and battered in layers of thick synth funk with Zackey Force Funk topping it off with the freaky/sexy vocals. Next up, Chi-town rapper The Gen$ laces up "Right On Time(2)," a proper rap beat informed by the hey day of Warren G and Nate Dogg, while Lady Alma adds a soulful feminine touch to the heavy bumps of "Substance(3)." Also includes the FAT talkbox beats of "Swang(4)" and the dub for "Right On Time(5)." Must have for future funk and boogie heads. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all

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Stevie Wonder
As (Scott K Remix) 12"

house remix of Stevie classic

Scott K isn't prolific by any means, but when he drops a remix record, DJs listen. His "I Love Music" and James Brown "I'm Satisfied" (co-authored by Cole Medina) remain DJ secret weapons to this day. For this limited test press release, Steve houses up the Stevie Wonder celestial classic "As(1)." Don't any expect squiggly new school styles here, Steve goes for the traditional, thumpin, feelgood NYC-style house sound. I can Herbert Holler killin it with this. B-side features a similarly styled unnamed track(2).
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
house / deep house / remixes / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / re-edits - disco + italo + cosmic + rockish / re-edits / and more

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Portishead
Roseland NYC Live 2LP

live recording from 1998

Portishead live at the Roseland Ballroom, New York City 1998. They appeared with a full orchestra and performed an amazing show of their gut wrenching classics: "Humming, Cowboys, All Mine, Mysterons, Only You, Half Day Closing, Over, Glory Box, Sour Times, Roads" and "Strangers." A great companion to the two Portishead albums. Deluxe UK pressing, double vinyl.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / various rock + everything else / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / and more

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Heavy Disco & Dark Starr
I Ain't Hiding / Smiling Faces (Black Crowes) 12"

edits of rock tracks from Black Crowes + Rare Earth

Ashley Beedle's Modern Artifacts imprint is always pushing the definition of the playable track. The label has already introduced us to DJ versions of Kate Bush and Phil Collins... and now The Black Crowes' "I Ain't Hiding(1)." Giving a nod to the Rolling Stones disco years, this rework has been a favorite in Beedle's sets and Horse Meat Disco. Continuing the whiteboy rock theme, the b-side features an edit of the Rare Earth cover of "Smiling Faces(2)" (originally by The Temptations).
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / various rock + everything else / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / and more

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V/A
Bambara Mystic Soul: The Raw Sound of Burkina Faso 1974-1979 2LP

sahel psych-rock and afro-funk

For its commemorative 10th release, Analog Africa indulges in Burkina Faso, one of the jewels of the Sahel, a harsh and arid strip that straddles the southern Sahara, stretching from Dakar in the west to Djibouti in the east. Formerly known as Haute Volta, Burkina Faso's sound was organized and nurtured during the country's time as part of a vast patchwork making up French colonial West Africa. The raw sound of Burkina Faso combined Afro-Funk, traditional Islamic rhythms and subtle Afro-Latin sounds brought over by visiting Cuban ensembles. Mandingue melodies and guitar techniques from Mali and Guinea, however, were by far the most defining traits of a potent African mix that distinguished the Voltaic style between 1974 and 1979. Check out cuts from Afro-Soul System, legendary singer Amadou Ballake, Compaore Issouf, Orchestre CVD, Mangue Konde, Mamo Lagbema, and more spread over 2 lps. 16 tracks total, recommended.

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / latin + brazilian + afrobeat / funk soul disco - albums / funk + soul + latin + disco / and more

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Dinky
Sealed / Eeled 12"

smooth deep house

Alejandra Iglesias aka Dinky hails from Chile, and her debut release for the of-the-moment label Crosstown Rebels packs two smooth deep house heaters. On the a-side is "Sealed(1)," a balearic tech-house tune sure to hit big at classy dancefloors. "Eeled(2)" follows on with powerful bass and "erractic electronic keys" on the b-side, recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / new electro + electro rock + rave / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / new disco / cosmic / edits / and more

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Dreas
Dreastronaut CD

excellent downtempo beats

Beats producer Dreas goes way back in the Lab catalog (remember the golden 7" days of Meatyogre, Heardrums, Memphix, Bully, etc?). His sound hasn't changed much, it's only gotten more complex and mature. Even my break-burnt ears could listen to this all day. 11 tracks of the highest caliber, highly recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Onra
Chinoiseries pt. 2 (w/ FREE MP3 Download) 2LP

hip hop instrumentals crafted from asian records

Ya'll might know Onra from his modern boogie funk style, but he's also murderous on the MPC when it comes to heavy hip-hop instrumentals! If you missed out on the first Chinoiseries releases, you must catch up and get with Chinoiseries Pt 2, now on All City. The theme remains the same from the previous installment - beats crafted from records dug up in the far east - but the way Onra flips it is just so sick! Check "Remember The Name(1)," "A New Dynasty(2)," or "It's All Memories(3)" for starters, then get into the heavy head nod of "Words Of Encouragement(4)," "No Matter What(5)," "Where I'm From(6)," and "Still Broke(7)." Even got the shout out to the RZA on "One For The Wu(8)." So many beats to dig into here, 32 total! Recommended.


reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
downtempo + electronic - recommended / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / and more

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Pinch and Shackleton
Pinch and Shackleton 2LP

dark and atmospheric post-dubstep

Deadly pairing of dubstep producers who are easily at the top of the food chain from Honest Jon's. For a while Shackleton was giving us glimpses of the darkest corners of the dubstep realm with his Skull Disco releases, while Pinch has been bringing the pressure for many years on Tectonic, Planet Mu, Swamp 81, Deep Medi, and many other respected labels. Here the two combine forces for a post-dubstep sound unlike anything else. Utilizing dramatic timing, detailied percussion, and a truly dark vibe, Shackleton & Pinch, are "a powerful retort to the comparatively crude hyperactivity of the post-dubstep landscape and a well-timed lesson in sophistication." 8 tracks in all housed in an exquisite gatefold sleeve.
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
dubstep + grime - vinyl / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / and more

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Fulgeance
To All Of You LP

new school beats

After several well received releases on his own Musique Large imprint and All City, French beatsmith Fulgeance makes the jump to Melting Pot Music for a full length debut! To All You is a literal melting pot of styles - from electronica, hip-hop, bass, and techno - all fused together under Fulgeance's playful, yet heavy, beats vision. Each beat is dedicated to various cities around the globe and you can hear Fulgeance salute the creative spirit of each area as he runs down the tracklist titles. From the hefty new school bump of "La Cite Des Anges(1)" which is obviously in line with LA's current sound, to the bass heavy slump of "London Falling(2)" that meets halfway between beats and dubstep, and the future rave b-boy bounce of "Glasgow Lunacy(3)," Fulgeance takes us on an award tour around the world through beats. 10 tracks in fresh pic sleeve.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
downtempo + electronic - vinyl / vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all

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Treasure Fingers
Keep Up (Jackson, Kenny Dope Remixes) 12"

freestyle-infused dance, great rmxs

Fresh material from Treasure Fingers! His unique brand of super-funky-electro-dance has been tearing up dancefloors for years now, and with "Keep Up(1)," the BK-by-way-of-ATL producer shows off a slightly different (yet equally awesome) layer of his musical chops. For the track, hard-hitting 4/4 programming (don't worry - plenty of that on the remixes) is left out in favor of freestyle drums, with Haley Small's sugar-coated vocals and some vocoder funk creating another outstanding TF banger. The remixes don't disappoint either, as Jackson turns in a fully-synthed big room version(2), and house legend Kenny Dope delivers a classic NYC take on the original(3), which will be big in all types of dancing-oriented spots for sure. Recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
new electro + electro rock + rave / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / new electro / electro rock / rave

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D'Angelo
The Best So Far 2LP

classics, rare cuts, live version and duets from D'Angelo

Originally released in 2008, The Best So Far... includes D'Angelo's top hits, rare cuts, live versions and duets with artists like Erykah Badu and Raphael Saadiq. Songs from Brown Sugar and Voodoo take up the most room on the album: "Lady(1)," "Brown Sugar(2)," "Smooth(3)," "Feel Like Makin' Love(4)," and of course, "Untitled (How Does It feel)(5)" in addition to 12 more tracks are spread over 2 LPs, and despite the singer-songwriter's current struggles with whatever, the album is top notch neo soul without a doubt. A must for fans, recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - albums / funk + soul + latin + disco / new vinyl - hip-hop / and more

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Liquid Crystal Project
A Tribute To De La / Stakes Still High (J Rawls) 7"

jazz-funk-hop rendition of De La classic

Here is the first single from Liquid Crystal Project's forthcoming album (the group's third). J Rawls and the gang pay tribute to De La Soul by reworking "Stakes Is High(1)" into a jazz-funk-hop burner, and the is graced by a guest appearance from Phrez Whitted, one of the most highly regarded jazz trumpet players of our time. On the flip is "Stakes Is Still High" featuring some rapping.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
funk soul disco - 7" / 45s / funk + soul + latin + disco / new vinyl - hip-hop / vinyl new arrivals / and more

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Shortkut
Kuts Foundation CD

masterful turntablist mix

Shortkut shows off his master level turntablist techniques right here on the Kuts Foundation mix. As a member of ISP, Beat Junkies, AND Triple Threat DJs, you already know he's got skills for days, and this CD is the audible proof. Right from the get go Shortkut goes off, with ill scratches and cuts to shock and amaze. And just when you thought it couldn't get any fresher, Kut throws in a double and blows your mind with a killer juggle or scratch routine. They just don't make mixes like this anymore! Cop this and listen to how it should be done. Includes tons of classic hip hop tracks, breaks, and much more - a little over an hour of true turntable mastery. Recommended.
reviewed by Von Bee


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Amy Winehouse
Lioness: Hidden Treasures 180 Gram 2LP

posthumous compilation of Amy Winehouse's unreleased tracks, demos

Here is the first posthumous album (of many, we're guessing) from Amy Winehouse. Lioness: Hidden Treasures contains unreleased tracks and demos the late r&b-hip-hop-soul-jazz singer recorded before her 2002 debut, Frank, up to 2011. Salaam Remi and Mark Ronson, as well as Winehouse's family, went through a slew of material to compile 12 songs, with "Body And Soul(1)," a duet with Tony Bennett and Amy's final studio recording, being one of them. Also included are "Like Smoke(2)" - a duet with Nas - "Valerie('69 Version)(3)," "The Girl From Ipanema(4)," "Our Day Will Come(5)," "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?(6)," and many more that capture the pain, loneliness, humor and other emotions that fueled her art. Pressed on 180g heavyweight vinyl, gatefold cover with insert, highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / funk soul disco - albums / and more

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Mark Ronson
Produced & Remixed Vol.2 2LP

unreleased instrumentals, early stuff, demos

From unreleased Version instrumentals and his stellar catalog of remixes to two demos with Amy Winehouse and early production work (alongside ?estlove) for Nikka Costa, Produced & Remixed Vol. 2 collects 16 of Mark Ronson's less-heard works. The range of artists the artist/producer has worked with is amazing (Terriyaki Boyz!!!), and for fans of his hip blend of hip-hop, funk, soul, pop, rock, and more, this album is essential.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / funk soul disco - comps / and more

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Biz Markie
Goin' Off 3LP

Biz's debut reissued with bonus remixes, demo versions, instrumentals

Deluxe, remastered triple vinyl reissue of Biz Markie's Goin' Off, complete with bonus remixes, original 12" versions, demo versions, and instrumentals. Biz released the album in an era of Boogie Down Beef and "hard" MCs. With hit tracks like "Pickin' Boogers(1)," "Making Music With Your Mouth Biz(2)," "Vapors(3)," and "Biz Is Goin' Off(4)," he quickly out-shined many fellow rappers - his playful, down to earth steez triumphed over tough talk. Not to mention he killed the beat box genre with "Making Music..." (wish I could do that). This special edition is for the real-deal collectors and hip hop fanatics. A lot of the added material is ultra-rare (where else are you going to get the "Nobody Beats" demo version?) and unique. A perfect twist to your next mixtape or show...
reviewed by C'mish

file under:
new vinyl - hip-hop / vinyl new arrivals / hip-hop vinyl / old school hip-hop + random rap / and more

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DJ Spin Doctor
You Know What Love Is: A J Dilla Tribute Mix 2CD

mega mix of Dilla beats, sample sources

Spin Doctor serves up a huge, 2-cd dose of Dilla goodness on You Know What Love Is. In addition to tracks he produced for ATCQ, De La Soul, The Pharcyde, Slum Village and more, sample sources - Steve Spacek "Dollar," REne Cosy "Scrabble," Stan Getz "Saudade Vem Correndo," and more - the late producer flipped with finesse are thrown in into the mix. An obvious pick for Dilla fans, a great place to start for people just finding out about the legend. Recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots


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Washed Out
Within And Without (Colored Vinyl w/ FREE MP3 Download) LP

full length debut from influential chillwave producer

Within And Without is the much-anticipated follow up to Washed Out's critically-acclaimed Life Of Leisure EP. Washed Out (aka Ernest Greene) is synonymous with the term "chillwave," but on Within And Without the Atlanta-based producer pushes forward from conventional chillwave aesthetics resulting in something that's still very hazy and warm, but more mature and refined. Within And Without takes it to a higher level of musicality with help from Ben Allen (co-producer of Merriweather Post Pavillion) and guest vocalist Caroline Polachek to really progress his evolution as a singer/songwriter. Highlights include "You And I(1)," "Eyes Be Closed(2)," "Soft(3)," "Before(4)," "Far Away(5)," and "A Dedication(6)". 9 tracks total pressed up on colored vinyl and includes free digital download of the album.
reviewed by suicide bangs

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / vinyl with free mp3 / and more

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Radiohead
The King of Limbs (180g w/ FREE mp3 Download) LP

8th studio album from Radiohead

Almost 4 years after In Rainbows, Radiohead releases King Of Limbs, the band's 8th studio full-length. Limbs, produced by Nigel Godrich aka the "sixth member" of Radiohead, is the band's shortest album to date consisting of 8 tracks. "Lotus Flower(1)," an eerily beautiful tune characterized by hints of electronica, was the first song to see the light of day, and tracks like "Bloom(2)," with its hazy, experimental sound, and "Codex(3)," with its serene yet somehow tense composure, define the stylings of the album (along with Thom Yorke's haunting vocals, of course). Other picks include the brilliant, acoustic guitar-driven "Little by Little(4)" and the soothing "Give Up The Ghost(5)," but really, there is not a song on the album that won't require repeats and multiple listens. The 180gram vinyl come in an inner sleeve featuring illustrations of mythical creatures. Free MP3 download card included (via the TBD label), highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
downtempo + electronic - recommended / rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / and more

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Washed Out
Life Of Leisure (with FREE MP3 Download) EP

excellent shoegaze and synth-pop vibes, pick

Man, I really love this record. We finally managed to get our mitts on some copies, now that it's on its third pressing. The original pressing is going for over 150 Euros these days, and this edition is limited to 2000 copies, so don't expect it to be around long. Washed Out is Ernest Greene, and this EP of hazy bedroom synth-pop is probably one of the most notable releases of the so-called Chill Wave genre. It's sensitive white boy daydream music at its finest, perfect for lazy summer days at the beach. If you haven't heard any of his stuff before, start with "Feel It All Around(1)" - it's probably the best track here, built from a slowed down italo disco sample and absolutely drenched in reverb. Other favorites include "You'll See It(2)," (probably the only one of these that you could get away with on the dancefloor, and even then it's kind of a stretch), "New Theory(3)," and "Hold Out(4)." All six of em are gorgeous though. Comes in a hand-numbered pic sleeve (how perfect is that cover art, btw?) and plays at 45. Cop this, take a few bong hits and then slip into some mellow 80s vibes; you won't regret it. Recommended.
reviewed by Hires

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / and more

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New Order
Technique (180g) LP

1989 album, their best?

This is the album that New Order fans act like they don't like. As in: "I prefer their early, formative stuff like Brotherhood or Power Corruption Lies." With its Versace-style cover, slick production, and the super-aggro opener "Fine Time," it's easy to dismiss this as where they crew lost it post-Substance. BUT, what I've come to learn is that this might be the true New Order fan's favorite album. Cause once you get passed the presentation (although the Saville artwork is proving to be timeless), this might be New Order at its modern best: cooled out and mature, super-emotive, and technically capable. Once you get past "Fine Time," the triplet of "All The Way(1)", "Love Less(2)", and club hit "Round and Round(3)" might be their strongest ever. Who can make broken love sounds so fucking cool? The other aspect that makes this such a great album is that it's such a smooth listen. After the heights of "Round," you'll barely notice that you've gone through "Guilty Partner(4), Run(5), Mr. Disco(6), Vanishing Point(7), Dream Attack(8)"... repeat. It's like morning sex with a model, eating breakfast, breaking up, smoking cigs, and having make-up sex... then breaking up again. Highest quality 180g pressing, recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new wave + no wave + electro / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / and more

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The Smiths
The Queen Is Dead (Remastered 180g) LP

remastered 180g version of an 80s rock classic

This is it, the big one. The Rolling Stone five star all time great Smiths album. I don't really believe in this kind of stuff, especially with this band. BUT, if your going to leave the house to DJ, or if your going to throw a record on the turntable, this is probably the one to have. I mean really you should have most or all of their discography in your iPod, but if you don't, this is a great place to start. "Bigmouth Strikes Again(1)," is probably the most played Smiths "club" track. "Cemetry Gates(2)," is one of their greatest and most talked about tracks, "The Boy with the Thorn In His Side(3)" is the "Morrissey Night" Fave. There's also "Some Girls(4)" (if you don't have the live "Some Girls" track it down it's amazing) and the title track(5) - for whatever reason when the English sing politics it sounds so fucking cool, but when we (Americans) do it we sound like total douche bags...
"Franky Mr. Shankly(6)," is a personal fave of mine about a record executive asshole they had to deal with. "I Know Its Over(7)" and "Never Had No One Ever(8)" are the two least talked about tracks and both are fantastic - you start to hear Morrissey developing the sound that would emerge in his solo stuff, more moody and broody. "Vicar In A Tutu(9)," another short jingle jangle song that I would again urge you to track down the "Rank" version of. Which leaves us with "There is a Light That Never Goes Out(10)." Perhaps the greatest song that's ever been recorded? For real, this is THE Smiths song, if you only own one Smiths song, this is the one you should own, so if you only own one Smiths album, a real crime id say, but if you do, this is the one to own. I can not really put this song into words, play it over and over if you've lost a love, or found a love, found a friend or lost a friend, like so many of us have this bitter sweet summer. If you love music of any kind this album will not collect dust, a must for everyone...
reviewed by Roctakon

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new wave + no wave + electro / various rock + everything else / and more

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Radiohead
In Rainbows LP

Not sure if you heard, but Radiohead put out a new album a few months back and it's pretty good. In case you didn't already steal it from the intarwebs -- or if you did and you'd like something better than 160kbps MP3s -- here's the official vinyl version, pressed loud on heavy wax with full lyrics and liners. Check these tracks: "15 Step(1)," "Weird Fishes / Arpeggi(2)," "Reckoner(3)," "Bodysnatchers(4)," "All I Need(5)." Pitchforkian cheekiness aside, In Rainbows is the follow-up "rock" album that everyone's been wanting from Radiohead since OK Computer dropped, easily surpassing Hail To The Thief and barely even comparable to the more electronic- and ambient-leaning Kid A. 10 tracks; 42 minutes. Recommended.
reviewed by Larri Byrd

file under:
downtempo + electronic - recommended / rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / and more

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Dangerdoom
The Mouse & The Mask LP

It's kind of amazing how good these "underground blockbuster" collabs have been for MF Doom- seems no matter who he's working with it comes off better than 99% of what's out. This heavily anticipated combination of Dangermouse and MF Doom continues the streak with both guys cleanly executing their end of the concept album- it could be Dangermouse's most consistent production yet, and Doom is as entertaining and illustrious as ever. The songs revolve loosely around the cartoons from Adult Swim (Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Space Ghost, etc), and some of the characters also make appearances but that doesn't ever get in the way of Doom's lyrics. In fact, if the concept wasn't so explicitly spelled out with the marketing & packaging, you might not even notice it. Just another layer to dig into. Plus the Hunger Force makes real good skits. Guest spots are kept strong & minimal with quality appearances from Talib Kweli, Cee-Lo and Ghostface.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
stones throw shop / indy hip-hop / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / new vinyl - hip-hop / and more

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Jesus & Mary Chain
Psychocandy LP

classic shoegaze album, 180g reissue

Jesus and Mary Chain's debut album from 1995 has always been hard to find on vinyl, but thanks to the surprising success of Lost In Translation, we get this glorious 180g reissue. Lost In Translation introduced the uninitiated to the beauty of "Just Like Honey(1)", but that's only the opening track here. There's fourteen cuts of mega-fuzz guitar rock and shoegazing wonder. Who cares if you can't really draw lyrical meaning out of it? Just let the fuzz take you away. My personal faves: "Never Understand(2), My Little Underground(3), Cut Dead(4)", and the "Living End". Added bonus: cool chicks will like you.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new wave + no wave + electro / various rock + everything else / and more

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Momentform
Momentform EP

minimal synth, cold wave

French band Momentform make their debut on Brooklyn's WT Records with a self-titled album full of analog synths and drum machines. This one will easily win over fans of the minimal/cold wave sounds, especially with tracks like "Turnaround(1)," and "She's Into Clubs(2)," but also check the slow and moody "Cards(3)" and "25(4)." 6 tracks total, housed in black & white pic sleeve. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / new wave + no wave + electro / and more

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Kartei
Kartei EP

techno from france

Debut EP from mysterious French techno duo Kartei on BK's WT Recs. These guys are bringing back the classic techno sound with the heavy arpeggio-driven grooves of "Lightgarten(1)." The track features a driving beat and dizzying synths that already made it to some mixes by respected producer/dj Legowelt. But that's just the tip of the iceberg! The record continues with "Rocket To Earth(2)," a track reminiscent of Throbbing Gristle's "Hot On The Heels," and the heavy underwater techno bump of "Transponder(3)." Side B takes it deeper with Basic Channel style dub techno on "Dimension 11(4)" and the beat-less ambient arpeggios of "Sisyphus(5)." Another amazing release from WT!
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
minimal house + techno / vinyl new arrivals / house / minimal / techno / new disco / cosmic / edits / and more

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V/A
World's Funkiest Covers LP

funky covers in a wide range of styles

Leave it to Light In The Attic to round up the funkiest covers from around the world and put 'em all together on one loaded release. That's exactly what's going on here with World's Funkiest Covers, a collection carefully selected by Deano Sounds for LITA Records. The album will surprise you with it's range of styles - from deep funk, latin soul, salsa, afro beat, cumbia, and more - making you hear classic tunes in a totally new way. From Light In The Attic: "From the Ebony Rhythm Band's deep funk cover of "Light My Fire(1)" to the soulful version of "Purple Haze(2)" by Johnny Jones and the King Casuals, the unforgettable tracks keep on coming. There's also plenty of hard pounding salsa with Ray Barretto's cover of "Pastime Paradise(3)," Mongo Santamaria's cover of "Cloud Nine(4)" and Williamsburg Salsa Orchestra's cover of Spoon's "I Turn My Camera On(5)"." Mixed in with all the vintage tracks are a few contemporary artists giving classic tunes a new facelift including Mighty Mo and the Winchester 7 covering "The Message(6)" and Nostalgia 77 doing up White Stripes' "Seven Nation Army(7)." 11 Tracks in all.
reviewed by Extravagant Traveler

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / various rock + everything else / funk soul disco - comps / and more

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The Revenge
Reekin'structions by The Revenge CD

top shelf disco boogie edits

Looks like The Revenge is up to his old tricks again. The UK-based DJ/Producer has set himself up to be a major figure in the edit/slow disco house scene and now makes a move to Z Records for some his best work to date. Here Graeme Clark (aka The Revenge) cherry-picks some of the finest disco boogie tracks to splice and re-arrange for maximum impact on the floor, leading off with a rework of Mid-Air's rare joint "Ease Out(1)" that teases and extends the breaks to work the crowd. That's just the tip of the iceberg as this album treats you to fantastic edits of more boogie rarites like Chapter Three's spaced-out chugger "Smurf Trek(2)," Nel Oliver's grown and sexy groover "Dream On(3)," Electric Smoke's "Freak It Out(4)," The Joneses' "Summer Groove(5)" and Letta Mbulu's heater "Kilimanjaro(6)." Top shelf selections reworked in masterful fashion, well recommended!
reviewed by snackmaster


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V/A
Brazilian Guitar Fuzz Bananas: Tropicalia Psychedelic Masterpieces 1967-1976 2LP

masterclass in brazilian psych and Tropicalia, pick

From the same people that brought you the hugely popular Psych Funk 101 comes this master class for those entranced by the funky, heavy psychedelic wonders of the Tropicalia movement and all that it spawned. But as compiler Joel Stones writes in his liner notes: "You won't find Os Mutantes or their maestro Rogerio Duprat on this compilation. There is a reason that the records contained here have never been reissued. Even though you will recognize some of the labels contained here... believe me when I write this: some of the rarest, and best, examples of fuzzy, funky Brazilian psychedelia came out as promo-only 7" records on these labels." Each song contained on this album has never been reissued, and has been restored from the best source possible and remastered for near-perfect sound quality. The 48 page full color booklet contains a wealth of imagery and detailed annotation and liner notes in both English and Portuguese. Artists include Celio Balona, Loyce E Os Gnomes, The Youngsters, Serguei, Fabio, Tony E Som Colorido, 14 Bis, Banda De 7 Legues, Ton E Sergio, Ely, Com Os Falcoes Reais, Marisa Rossi, The Pops, Loyce E Os Gnomes, Piry and Mac Rybell. In addition this enhanced CD, features the documentary What Are Fuzz Bananas?. Highly recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / stones throw shop / latin + brazilian + afrobeat / funk soul disco - comps / and more

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V/A
Psych-Funk 101: A Global Psychedelic Funk Curriculum 1968-1975 2LP

pick, supreme collection of psyche-funk from all around the world

This is a record collector's wet dream. Here's 14 impossibly rare psyche-funk gems from around the world with many unexpected sources like Istanbul, Seoul, Rome, Beirut, Cairo, Moscow, etc. The musical quality and beat sensibilities (drum breaks galore) are ridiculously high here, every track is a revelation (that Korean joint is my shit!). In addition, the in-depth linear notes, complete with original cover shots, reads like an issue of Wax Poetics. Highly recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / stones throw shop / latin + brazilian + afrobeat / funk soul disco - comps / and more

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V/A
Ultimate Breaks & Beats Instrumentals Vol.2 2LP

replayed instrumentals of UBB classics

The first batch of UBB instrumentals was a hit, so here's a huge second helping! Like the first volume, volume 2 features no edits or computer trickery - just straight-up funk tracks recreated live by a tight group of UK musicians (lead by Mr. Chop) so the sound quality is pretty darn close to the OG (if not cleaner!). You should be familiar with most of these as they are classic jams that have been sampled by numerous hip-hop joints. Check the new instrumental versions of "Give It Up Turn It Loose," "Sport," "Different Strokes," "Hand Clapping Song," "It's My Thing," "T Plays It Cool," You Got What I Need," and "Rock Creek Park." A gold mine for produers looking for clean samples and drums. 14 tracks total.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
funk soul disco - comps / funk + soul + latin + disco / vinyl new arrivals / funk soul disco

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V/A
7x7" = FUNK: The Funky Side of P&P Records Box Set

rare funk 45s

Sure, you're familiar with P&P's illustrious disco history, but whatchuknowbout the funkier side of the Peter Brown & Patrick Adams empire? Honestly, I didn't know jack about these tracks (nor did Snack, and that's really saying something) so my hunch is these seven faithful repro 45s are gonna come as a surprise to most people. Here are some choice jams to check, but as with most things P&P, this is quality throughout and fully worth investigating: Eddie Owen - "Determination(1)," Ella Hamilton - "I'm Gonna Fool You(2)," Sons of Darkness - "Funky Thing(3)," Henry Brooks - "Greatest Debt to My Mother(4)," Otis Turner & The Mighty Kingpins - "Do The Funky Donkey(5)," Wild Honey - "I've Been Working(6)."
reviewed by Van Hammersly

file under:
funk soul disco - 7" / 45s / funk + soul + latin + disco / funk soul disco / special edition + deluxe

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V/A
Ultimate Breaks & Beats Instrumentals 2LP

classic breaks compiled

Holy chit! For the first time in the history of the fabled series, UBB brings us a set of front-to-back, honest to goodness instrumentals. No edits or computer trickery here - these are tight new vocal-less versions of 13 of the most classic breaks in the UBB catalogue, laid down in Brooklyn, NY, by a gang of trained studio assassins (including Leon Michels of El Michels Affair). The group puts their own subtle touches on major tracks like "I Believe In Miracles(1)" and "Last Night Changed It All(2)" but they know who their audience is, and therefore leave all the essential bits of every hit unchanged. Also check their versions of "Funky President(3)," "It's Just Begun(4)," "Funky Worm(5)" and "The Mexican(6)." And of course, it wouldn't be UBB without the classic artwork! Double vinyl; 13 tracks. Recommended.
reviewed by Van Hammersly

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - comps / funk + soul + latin + disco / vinyl new arrivals / and more

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QBert
Breaktionary, Vol.3 LP

break record

3rd installment of the popular breaktionary series by Q-bert. You know the deal here, over 60 breaks lined up back to back at the same tempo for uber easy mixing and doubles rocking. Must cop doubles on these ones.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
vinyl new arrivals / break + scratch + loop

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Jungle Brothers
I'll House You 12"

hip house

In the late 90s, this record was everywhere you didn't want it to be. Damn, another "I'll House You?" I wanted "Straight Out the Jungle" with that Q-Tip track, son! But how quickly times have changed. Miraculously all those dollar bin copies have been snatched up (even Warlock's never-ending supply dried up), and for the last couple years, we've had to field countless requests with no luck. Well it's back, and just in time. With the whole hip-house thing so relevant right now, you gotta get the visionary og. Jungle Bros were on some futuro, Detlef Schremp shit back in the 80s. I always questioned this move back when I thought I knew everything bout hip-hop, but now the yolks on me (catch me shirtless at WMC in March). Includes the famous Club Mix(1), the very useful acapella, the UK remix(2), and the Gee Street Reconstruction Mix(3).
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
new vinyl - hip-hop / hip-hop vinyl / old school hip-hop + random rap

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Jay Dee
Welcome 2 Detroit Instrumental 2LP

instrumental hip-hop

It's worth remembering that even though Jay Dee had already produced A Tribe Called Quest, De La and the Pharcyde when this came out, he was not yet the bonafide beat messiah he's known as today. His 2001 BBE project was generally knocked for sloppy vocals, not quite a fair assessment, but one that probably caused more than a few folks to overlook it. With Jay's growing stature and the success of disciples like Dwele (who contributed heavily to this project), maybe it's time to take another look, and this instrumental version provides a good way to do it. Though you'll have to go back to the full album for one of the best grooves ("Rico Suave Bossa Nova" is not included here), and although some tracks, like the Donald Byrd remake "Think Twice," don't quite work sans vocals, most others, like "Give It Up(1)" and "Featuring Phat Cat(2)" just plain bump like nobody's business. Tracks like "It's Like That(3)" and the Karriem Riggins collabo "The Clapper(4)" demonstrate Jay's knack for making a compelling beat with the most minimal of elements, while Jay's influences show up on other tracks, like the Kraftwerk homage "BBE(5)," the nod to EWF ("Brazilian Groove(6)") and the Oneness of Juju cut-up "African Rhythms." Also check "Y'all Ain't Ready(7)" and "It's Like That(8)." Here's to second chances.

NOTE: The sleeves for these indicate that it is the vocal version of the album, but the music on the LPs are the instrumentals.
reviewed by monk

file under:
downtempo + electronic - vinyl / stones throw shop / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / new vinyl - hip-hop / and more

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J. Dilla
The Shining 2LP

Dilla's second official solo album

In one of the biggest stealth moves ever, Jay Dee spent the last decade rising from underground prodigy to deified musical martyr, quietly redefining the sound of hip-hop along the way. The Shining was scheduled as the follow-up to the overlooked at the time/classic in retrospect Welcome 2 Detroit, but as the truncated timing (36 minutes) suggests, BBE and executive producer Karriem Riggins had to piece the project together when Yahweh decided He needed some beats and called Dilla up to the big MPC in the sky. In spite of the circumstances, Riggins has done a good job of making the finished product sound like a coherent album. The Common/D'Angelo collab "So Far To Go(1)" is about as beautiful a Jay Dee beat as I've heard, definitely some keep-the-instro-on-repeat-and-stare-at-the-clouds shit. The ladies will also love "Dime Piece(2)," which reuses an old Dwele vocal (from "Angel," I think), but don't get worried, in classic Dilla style, there's some nasty gully grooves to balance the pretty stuff out. Check "Jungle Love(3)" where he swings chains--yes, chains--for the hi-hat, or the brutal instrumental "Body Movin'(4)." Longtime homey Black Thought provides lyrical heat on another crackling beat ("Love Movin'(5)") and Pharoahe Monch finally gets a chance to rip over a Dilla treat on "Love Jones(6)." More beats from the vaults will inevitably be released in years to come, but The Shining is a fitting final chapter to the quiet legend's life.
reviewed by monk

file under:
downtempo + electronic - vinyl / stones throw shop / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / new vinyl - hip-hop / and more

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Dr. Dre
Let Me Ride 12"

west coast classic

Hard one to find in the original. Originally an import only release. Besides the original mix, this features the extended 11 minute mix with extra lyrics from Snoop. Prime shine goes to Dre in the middle of the track, gettin dusted in the studio on the echo machine. LP version is for the clubs, 11 minutes of madness for the homeboys. LP Mix, Radio mix, Extended mix.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
new vinyl - hip-hop / hip-hop vinyl / middle school hip-hop

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Bladerunners
Music Sounds Better With Edits EP

club-friendly edits

The Bladerunners are one of the best things going right now. Their edits are made with working DJs in mind and they're totally effective. Side A features dance edits and starts with Stardust's "Music Sounds Better With You" aka one the greatest dance songs ever made. The Bladerunners do an admirable chop job(1) here, freaking out the original sounds. Showing some deep-ass music nerdery, they've resurrected P.I.L.'s "This Is Not A Love Song" as a Daft Punk-style dance track. The flip features hip-hop remixes of "Move Bitch(3), Throw Some D's(4)," and "Money In The Bank(5)." 7 tracks total. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / house / minimal / techno - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco 12" / and more

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Bladerunners
Work It, Shake It (Eddy Grant, Madonna) 12"

club-friendly edits

According to the one sheet, these guys (7L and RaZor) made all these edits in the "cut & paste / tape edit" method of 80s pioneers like the Latin Rascals and Steinski, and while I doubt that they were actually cutting up any tape, the inspiration and style are definitely in there. 7L has made an impressive transition from indie hip hop sideman to one of Boston's biggest club djs, and while I've never heard of RaZor, he does some cool shit with the edits here. Check out his versions of Madonna's "Physical Attraction(1)" and Eddy Grant's "Electric Avenue" ("Out In The Streets(2)"). That shit is POPPING in the headphones, I can only imagine what it would sound like in the club when he starts flipping channels, stuttering and overdubbing those beats. The a-side features an original 7L & RaZor party break, in three smart versions. The basic "Work It, Shake It(3)" is best for your own blending purposes, then the "Back It Up(4)" mix takes things up a couple notches with Gwen samples and could work in a number of situations (uh, mostly just play it), then "Work It, Shake It Remix(5)" pulls em all together.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
new vinyl - hip-hop / re-edits - disco + italo + cosmic + rockish / re-edits / new disco / cosmic / edits / and more

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Gaslamp Killer
Death Gate (Gonjasufi, Mophono, Computer Jay) 10"

heavy beats, psych-hop & dubstep

The Death Gate awaits you with five tracks from The Gaslamp Killer - and as always, he does not disappoint! The GLK enters dark dubstep realms on "Fun Over 100(1)" which consists of completely tripped-out synths layered over a shuffling drum machine beat that only clocks in at around two minutes but leaves a powerful impression. "When I'm In Awe(2)" featuring Gonjasufi is an ethiopian jazz sample-driven number that's dark, psyched-out, and unmistakably GLK. "Carpool Dummy(3)" with Mophono is a neckbreaker built on lethal, lo-fi drum loops that sound grimier with every listen, and "Shattering Inner Journeys(4)" featuring Computer Jay drops you square in the middle of a potent beat soup cooked up with insane drum patterns, dubby synths, and a slew of crazy effects. Highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
downtempo + electronic - recommended / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / and more

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The Smiths
Unreleased Demos & Instrumentals (Blue Vinyl) 2LP

highly sought-after Smiths demos and instrumentals on blue vinyl

This blue, double-vinyl release contains some of the most sought after Smiths demos (some might be alternate master versions) and instrumentals, including an extended version of "The Queen Is Dead(1)"; "Frankly, Mr. Shankly(2)" with horns; "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out(3)" with the final refrain "there is a light in your eyes and it never goes out"; and "Death Of A Disco Dance(4)" with the improvised whistled solo as noted in Simon Goddard book. The two instrumentals are "I Misses You(5)" and "Heavy Track(6)". If you're a Smiths fan, this is a no brainer, and if you're concerned about the sound quality (since it's not exactly an "official" release), do not worry because Shota the Database approves. Act quick because the album has already sold out from a number of outlets. Recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new wave + no wave + electro / various rock + everything else / and more

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Ras G & Samiyam
LA Part 3 10"

new school beats from the city of angels

Los Angeles in this MFer. Third volume in All City's LA Series features 6 more beats of the new school variety from two Los Angeles heavy smashers. Ras G & The Afrikan Space Program take up the first half of the EP with 3 abstract synth beat collages(1,2,3) that'll to take your head for a spin. The sound is very out there with plenty of off-kilter beat splicing, super delayed and tweaked samples and the occassional "Raassss!" sample to make it official. Samiyam takes the other half of the release with 3 for the blunted beat heads. Check the gangster slaps of "Space(4)," the menacing mood of "Fishsticks(5)" and the introspective head nod of "Brad(6)." Rolling one up wouldn't be a bad idea when listening to this one.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
downtempo + electronic - vinyl / vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all

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Daedelus / Teebs
Los Angeles Pt. 6/10 10"

sick new beats from Daedelus and Teebs

All City Dublin brings us their LA Series number 6! This one enlists long time production veteran Daedelus and fresh beat dude Teebs for a 10 track beat excursion guaranteed to bump. This 10" has some seriously sick stuff on it. My recommendation - cop now and listen to it all the way through like Dilla Donuts.
reviewed by Cmish

file under:
downtempo + electronic - vinyl / vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all

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Skream
Midnight Request Line 12"

early dubstep anthem

Huge track right here. When I first heard "Midnight Request Line(1)," I put it on loop and zoned out to it for hours. The intoxicating melody and sinister bass transformed me into a total bass fiend. I tried to find more dubstep (shout to Mathhead for hooking it up) that I could get into - but I couldn't get this one out of my system. I knew then I was hooked - on the subway, at the Lab - I couldn't get enough of this new crack. It reminded me of the freshness and hardness that once was in the old days of drum and bass - but Skream had modernized it, taking the best elements of d&b (BASS!), infusing it with dubby sci-fi shit and that thuggy half-time bounce to drive the bass heads crazy. I later found out that this is apparently an anthem in the dubstep/grime scene from '05, but still thoroughly rocks the scene hard - and it's clear to see why. Those infectious synth melodies and seething bass combined with the neck-breaking kick/gunshot/snare combo make this an absolute killer. B-Side features "I(2)" - more dark, rugged shit from Skream. Step to this.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
dubstep + grime - vinyl / downtempo + electronic + bmore + ghettotech + uk + baile / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all / and more

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V/A
Psych-Funk 101: A Global Psychedelic Funk Curriculum 1968-1975 CD

pick, supreme collection of psyche-funk from all around the world

This is a record collector's wet dream. Here's 14 impossibly rare psyche-funk gems from around the world with many unexpected sources like Istanbul, Seoul, Rome, Beirut, Cairo, Moscow, etc. The musical quality and beat sensibilities (drum breaks galore) are ridiculously high here, every track is a revelation (that Korean joint is my shit!). In addition, the in-depth linear notes, complete with original cover shots, reads like an issue of Wax Poetics. Highly recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / stones throw shop / now again + soul cal (stones throw) / funk + soul + latin + disco / and more

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Peanut Butter Wolf
45 Live: A Classic Rap Mix CD

classic rap mix by Stones Throw's head honcho

Super rare old school rap vibes being served to you by Stones Throw honcho PB Wolf! Expect only the best in the killer kuts. The mix features old school legends like Fearless Four, Just-Ice, Spoonie Gee, Busy Bee, Universal Two, Sweety G, T La Rock, Mantronix, Stezo, Bug Daddy Kane, Dimples D, Marley Marl, JVC Force, and many more. Solid freaking by Wolf on the tables too - rockin' doubles, sweet mixes, etc. The insert also shows the full tracklist, with all the proper production credits, and small personal notes by PB Wolf himself. Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish

file under:
stones throw shop

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