TURNTABLE LAB

Phantogram
Nightlife (w/FREE MP3 Download) EP

indie pop beats

2011 effort from NY-based duo Josh Carter and Sarah Barthel (aka Phantogram). Nightlife came in after their much lauded full length debut Eyelid Movies and continues the outstanding electronic indie pop vibe presented on their previous releases. Some would compare them to a modern dat "HGSOB" (like a pop-ier Portishead?), but regardless of what you want to call it, the bottom line is that this stuff is infectious and will easily garner repeat listens on the headphones. Check "16 Years(1)," "Don't Move(2)," "Turning Into Stone(3)," "Nightlife(4)," and "A Dark Tunnel(5)." Recommended.
reviewed by Von Bee

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

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Phantogram
Eyelid Movies (w/ FREE MP3 Download) LP

indie pop beats

Debut full length from American indie pop duo Phantogram. Eyelid Movies was originally released back in 2009 and found Sarah Barthel and Josh Carter (aka Phantogram) solidifying their self-proclaimed "street beat" sound into a long player that was generally well received by fans and critics alike. For the unfamiliar, the "street beat" or "psych pop" sound they are famous for is kind of like an updated variation of the "HGSOB" style, wherein tough beats and samples are given a soft emotive touch courtesy of the melodic guitar and airy synth work (and sometimes Sarah's vocals). Check the style on album highlights "Mouthful Of Diamonds(1)," "When I'm Small(2)," "Running From The Cops(3)," "As Far As I Can See(4)," "You Are The Ocean(5)," and "Futuristic Casket(6)." Great stuff for the headphones. Recommended.
reviewed by Von Bee

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

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Invisibl Skratch Piklz
Sealed Breaks LP

skipless samples for scratch drumming

Sealed Breaks is the first record especially made for skratch drumming. Know when you're drumming and you're about to get physical on the beat with some extra hard drums, then the needle skips? We'll on this record, a skip ain't gonna wreck your shop. The Piklz do their own version of Swamp's classic unskippable rec. When this record skips on the drum break, it will stay on beat but with a different drum sound. So you can front like you meant to change it up beat, or you can control the skip and be funky drummer. One side has eight variations of this drum system. One section contains drums with a several different tones underneath them for some compositional drumming. The last part on this side is a locked-groove unskippable fresh-beep-ahh combo. The flip side consists of 4 fresh skratch beats with Q-Bert taking a step beyond the whole electro thing with dirty electronic beats. This side ends with a locked Star Trek tone. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
vinyl new arrivals

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Gonjasufi
Muzzle 2x10"

neo-psych-folk beats

New transmissions from the lo-fi psych prophet known as Gonjasufi. MU.ZZ.LE is his sophomore effort on Warp and continues the bugged-out sonic journey Gonjasufi embarked upon on A Sufi And A Killer - but this time the trip is Sufi's own (no Gaslamp Killer this time around). Despite not-having GLK on beats, the album still holds its own and is a testament to Gonja's dedication to his craft. Raw, dirty drums, dusty psych loops, gritty folk melodies and lots of fuzz abound, with Gonjasufi leading each track in the most distorted and hypnotizing of ways. Wrap your head around "Nikels And Dimes(1)," Blaksuit(2)," "White Picket Fence(3)," "Rubberband(4)," and "Venom(5)." 10 tracks total take you on a journey to the farthest corners of your mind. Recommended.
reviewed by The Kosmische Beard

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

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VA
The Best Of Disco Demands Compiled Pt. 2 2LP

lost disco heaters compiled and re-edited

BOO-YAO! Special double LP vinyl version of Al Kent's latest disco comp for BBE. 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 Best Of Disco Demands, the label has compiled the best of Kent's Disco Demands series onto two double LP sets. 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." This is volume 1 and includes tracks from Hot Ice, Arthur King, Al Tanner, Curtis, Superbs, Sylvano Santorio and more. 8 tracks for the deep disco lovers, RECOMMENDED.
reviewed by The Voice

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - comps / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / and more

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VA
The Best Of Disco Demands Compiled Pt. 1 2LP

lost disco heaters compiled and re-edited

BOO-YAO! Special double LP vinyl version of Al Kent's latest disco comp for BBE. 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 Best Of Disco Demands, the label has compiled the best of Kent's Disco Demands series onto two double LP sets. 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." This is volume 1 and includes tracks from Arts & Craft, Exectutive Suite, Sizzle, Jimmy Sabater, Panache, Silver Platinum & Gold and more. 8 tracks for the deep disco lovers, RECOMMENDED.
reviewed by The Voice

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - comps / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / and more

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Atomic Forest
Obsession (w/ 20 Page Booklet) 2LP

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 deluxe 2LP slip case, this ungodly fusion of funk and psychedelia is available to all. Includes 22 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

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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VA
Disco Not Disco: Post Punk, Electro & Leftfield Classics 1974-1986 2LP

leftfield disco, post punk, and electro

The third in the popular Disco Not Disco series originally came out on CD years ago and finally gets released as a double vinyl! All sorts of leftfield disco rarites, post punk gems, and obscure electro classics get compiled here by Bill Brewster, the co-author of "Last Night A DJ Saved My Life." If you've never read his book, it puts NY's disco boom under a powerful microscope, detailing the makings of the phenomenon. And of course, when you have a new breed of anything, you know there'll be many imitators and mutations. That's just nature of the beast, especially in NYC and thus a sound developed that is "Disco Not Disco." The bands that combine post punk, electro and disco are in the spotlight here, and Brewster's selections frame the spirit of the era so well. For some prime samples, check Delta 5's "Mind Your Own Business(1)," Shriekback's "My Spine Is The Bassline(2)," James White & The Blacks' "Contort Yourself - August Darrell Mix(3)," Kazino's "Binary(4)," Liasons Dangereuses' "Los Ninos Del Parque(5)" and Maximum Joy's "Silent Street / Silent Dub(6)." Driving rhythms, strong vocals, propulsive basslines and stimulating synths can be found of most of these tracks and that's always a recipe for excitement on the dancefloor! Also includes the underground Detroit classic "Sharevari(7)" from A Number Of Names and the Factory records jam "Love Tempo(8)" by Quando Quango! 10 tracks total spread over 2LPs, Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish

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

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Joker
The Vision Instrumentals EP

purple dubstep beats

Instrumental versions of Joker's acclaimed debut full length! Joker has been killing the dubstep game for a few years now with his signature "purple" sound, a style that has leant itself to numerous anthemic 12"s and a gang imitators. Through the years the sound has slowly evolved and become more focused to the point that it seems anything Joker touches nowadays becomes massive. The Vision showcases the power of the purp sound with proven anthems like "Tron" and "My Trance Girl," and also finds Joker infusing it with potent cross-over potential. Check "Slaughterhouse," the title track, and "On My Mind" for a taste. Also worthy of mention is the introspective "Milky Way" and the Ginz collab "The Magic Causeway." Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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

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Surkin
USA (Limited Edition w/ CD) 2LP

french electro, house, and italo grooves

You might remember Surkin as the kid with mad skills who emerged from the big french electro-house invasion of the mid-to-late 00's. Well it's been a minute, (5 years to be exact) and the youngin' is back with his debut LP USA on Marble Players Records! The intro clues you in on what to expect - it's basically a huge buildup in proper french electro style that leads into the proper electro beats of "Lose Yourself(1)" with Ann Saunderson. "Love Shot(2)" is next and is a surprising departure into realms of high energy and cosmic italo vibes. Is this still the same Surkin? Well incase you were doubting, "I.N.Y.N.(3)" should clear all doubts as Surkin takes it back to the style that made him famous with an electro banger of epic proportions. Other highlights include the hype "Ultra Light(4)," the italo house vibes of "Silver Spring Anthem(5)," "Quattro(6)" with Bobmo, "Fan Out(7)" and the chilled out "Gold Island(8)" to balance it out. Impressive work, 16 tracks in all.
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
new electro + electro rock + rave / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / ed banger + institubes + related / vinyl new arrivals / and more

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Steel An' Skin
Steel An' Skin LP

afro-carribean steel pan disco + dub for the first time on LP

If you caught Honest Jon's repress of Steel An' Skin's 1979 steel pan disco jam "Afro Punk Reggae Dub(1)," then you already know the calibre of awesomeness we are dealing with here. The 12" is hard to come by now, but is still a favorite in DJ bags across the world. Here EM Records Japan gives you another chance to catch the track, plus a handful of other afro-carribean disco and dub joints from the 70's compiled for the first time on vinyl! Basque in the soul reggae disco goodness of tracks from Steel An' Skin's 1984 album Black Rain, which features ex-members of the legendary 20th Century Steel Band. Pressed on thick vinyl, with full pic sleeve and insert in English and Japanese. Recommended.
reviewed by Extravagant Traveler

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - albums / reggae albums + comps / funk + soul + latin + disco / and more

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Maceo Plex
Under The Sheets EP

warm and sexy house

It's the dead of winter in NYC, and even though this year is a mild one - it is still pretty damn cold. Yet even though it's icy out, listening to Maceo Plex's "Under The Sheets(1)" makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. All I can think about is sunsets on the beach and bikini-clad women getting down to these sexy-ass beats. You can bet it'll make the dancefloor feel hot too, and that's always a good thing. Definitely expect to hear this kill it at parties, poolsides, and functions for months to come. Brilliant stuff!
reviewed by suicide bangs

file under:
dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / minimal house + techno / vinyl new arrivals / house / minimal / techno / and more

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Cadillac
Cadillac 2LP

disco-fied synth pop and balearic grooves, excellent remixes

Cruise with Cadillac through the sexy sounds of disco-fied synth pop and balearic grooves on the self-titled debut on Australia's always schmoove Future Classic imprint. If you were feeling that Poolside record, the recent Hot Creations stuff, or the smoother side of Daft Punk, do yourself a favor and add to cart now because you won't be disappointed! From the get go, "Dreams(1)" will lure you in with catchy synth melodies and emotive vocals courtesy of Joel Byrne (Wolf & Cub), but then they rev the engine up with the peaktime boogie pop jammer "Past Midnight(2)" and by now you should know what you're dealing with. The vibes continue with "Make You Feel(3)," while "High For Me(4)," and "Blue Skies(5)" cool out out on the smooth sensual interlude tip. If that wasn't enough, you also get a gang of killer remixes from top dogs in the game including Ray Mang(6), Marcos Cabral (of Runaway/On The Prowl fame)(7), and Miracles Club(8). Recommended!
reviewed by The Kosmische Beard

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

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VA
Intended Play 2012 (Kurt Vile, Tanlines, Cold Cave) LP

eclectic comp from the indie giants

Here's your chance to get your hands on some of Matador and True Panther's top picks from 2011 and 2012. The indie label has graciously offered up some stellar talent for quite a steal. From the forward thinking rock of Kurt Vile(1), and Girls(2) to the devastating punk of Fucked Up(3) it's all there. Many of the tracks are seeing release for the first time, with Stephen Malkmus & The Jick (4), and Brooklyn's Tanlines(5) offering up some particularly delectable material. Intended Play 2012 serves as a great way to check in with these two indie powerhouses.
reviewed by The Voice

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

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Black Truth Rhythm Band
Ifetayo (180 Gram w/ Bonus 7" & FREE Mp3 Download) LP

deep afrobeat gem repressed on 180g

Another incredible afrobeat gem repressed by the good folks at Soundway. Ifetayo is the only album ever released by Black Truth Rhythm Band, a super rare and sought-after piece originally released in 1976. The group was led by Oluko Imo (who would would eventually play in Fela's Africa 80 band) and are rooted in super heavy afro vibes. Just check the shakin' funk grooves of "Umbala(1)," "Ifetayo(2)," the tropical flavor of "Aspire(3)," or the deep rhythms of "You People(4)" and "Kilamanjaro(5)" for a taste. Pressed on beautiful 180g vinyl with bonus 7" featuring a non-album bonus cut. Not to be missed for fans of afro sounds!Recommended.
reviewed by Extravagant Traveler

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

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The Big Pink
Future This (Limited Edition Colored Vinyl w/ FREE MP3 Download) LP

sophomore album from english electro-rock duo

The second full-length from Robbie Furze and Milo Cordell - aka The Big Pink - picks up where their 2009 debut A Brief History of Love left off. Churning out more of the catchy, cool electro-rock vibe full of off-kilter noises, memorable synth works, pop vocals and hip-hop-esque rhythms, the album appeals to the masses without letting go of the edgy aesthetic that the Londoners are usually associated with. Check out the lead single "Stay Gold(1)," which was inspired by a late-60s Playboy article by Stanley Kubrick as well as Robert Frost's Pulitzer Prize winning poem, "Nothing Gold Can Stay." Other picks include "Jump Music(2)," "Hit The Ground(3)," "1313(4)," and "Rubber necking(5)."
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
rock + new wave + 80/90s / new rock / vinyl new arrivals

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V/A
Colombia: The Golden Age of Discos Fuentes 1960-76 2LP

various latin styles from Colombia's oldest imprint

All the info you need on this one is right in the title: hand-picked by those crafty Soundway folks (who did that cool Panama comp last year), this import-only 2LP features 17 gems from the vaults of Colombia's largest and longest-running record label, Discos Fuentes. Just like the label, this comp contains a wide variety of Latin styles (cumbia, salsa, calypso, gaita, etc.), but there are outside influences popping up all over - just check the psychedelic harmonies on Frunk y Sus Tesos' "Improvisando(1)." Los Corraleros de Majagual's 10+ minute descarga take on "El Mondongo(2)" is pretty spicy, but nothing here begs to be chopped by a DJ like Pedro Laza's horn-heavy "La Picua(3)." Also check Michi Sarmiento's "Hong Kong(4)" and the wild cumbia of "La Piojosa(5)" - "The Flea-Bitten Woman." This is the type of thing we could throw on all day long in the office and nobody would complain. Recommended.
reviewed by Chris Lemon-Red

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

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VA
Hot Creations Post Summer Sampler Pt.2 EP

hot underground house

More heat for classy dancefloors from Hot Creations... Volume two of the unstoppable label's Post Summer Sampler series packs three sure-shots tracks. Hot Natured, aka Jamie Jones & Lee Foss, takes the a-side with "Class(1)," a deep, hypnotic, and sexy piece of house music with big bass, killer stabs, and "estranged spoken word vocals." B-side starts with a collabo track from Russ Yallop & Wildkats. "System Crank(2)" is flat-out infectious - the lyrics, chorus, keyboard line, bass... They all come together to create a dependable dancefloor weapon. Alex Arnout also contribute a track, and "One (More)" is an "edgy piece of righteous house." Recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

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

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Superlife
Go Bananas (Peanut Butter Wolf, Steve Summers, Max D, Legowelt Remixes) 2LP

freaky proto-techno boogie, all-star remixes

Superlife's "Go Bananas(1)" is one hell of a record and easily the most anticipated PPU release to date. The track was originally recorded and released back in 1982 and is an extremely rare piece of party-starting proto-techno from Detroit. Think "Share Vari" but even more freaky and robotic and you're on the right track! As the story goes, Danan Potts (aka Superlife) was hanging around the Recording Institute of Detroit where Juan Atkins was training in production. Danan was interested in Atkin's style of dance music and quickly recorded "Go Bananas". Bananas was released locally on Southern Sun Records in hyper limited quantity, it is today one of the most sought after underground detroit techno recordings of all time. Get it here on double 12" with the original instrumental, PLUS a gang of new version from today's top talent including Peanut Butter Wolf(2), Steve Summers(3), Legowelt(4), and Max D(5)! Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

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

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Amerigo Gazaway
Fela Soul: Fela Kuti vs De La Soul EP

classic rap meets afrobeat

Just as the clever title suggests, Fela Soul pairs De La Soul acapellas with Fela's afrobeat rhythms. Gummy Soul artist Amerigo Gazaway hand picks samples from the legendary Nigerian musician - expect lots of funky horn and guitar riffs - and layers them under verses from De La gems like "Stakes Is High(1)," "Trouble In The Water(2)," "Ooh(3)," "Rock Co.Kane Flow(4)," "Itsoweezee(5)," and "Breakadawn(6)," and the album offers a completely new way to enjoy classic sounds.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
latin + brazilian + afrobeat / funk + soul + latin + disco / new vinyl - hip-hop / vinyl new arrivals / and more

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The Dynamic Set & Liam Bailey
When Will They Learn / I'm Gonna Miss You 7"

roots reggae soul on 45

Amazing soul reggae cuts from Truth & Soul and singer/song writer Liam Bailey. As the story goes, Liam Bailey visited NYC four years ago from his hometown of Nottingham, England to write and record songs with Truth & Soul (Jeff Silverman & Leon Michels) to help him secure the ever elusive major label deal. There was an instant chemistry when the group met which led to a series of reggae and soul songs, a couple of which are featured here on this 7". Treat your ears to the brilliant roots reggae vibe on "When Will They Learn(1)" and "I'm Gonna Miss You(2)." Excellent stuff!
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
funk soul disco - 7" / 45s / current dancehall + hip-hop remixes + acapellas / funk + soul + latin + disco / reggae + dancehall / and more

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Yellawolf
Radioactive: Amazing And Mystifying Chemical Tricks 2LP

hyped Alabama MC's debut album

The buzz surrounding Yelawolf had much to do with the Alabama rapper being hailed as the Southern version of Eminem. Then Slim Shady signed Yela to his own imprint and further heightened the hype, and after a successful mixtape, Trunk Muzik, here is Yelawolf aka Michael Wayne Atha's debut album. Amazing And Mystifying Chemical Tricks doesn't veer far from what we expected from one of XXL's Top 11 Freshmen of 2011 - double-time, Alabama-rooted rhymes over big-bottom beats produced by J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, Diplo, Jim Jonsin, and more. The MC's storytelling and songwriting abilities are sharp and entertaining, and the country-boy-swag-washed lyrics sit well with the trunk-rattling instrumentals that consist of massive bass, big kicks and catchy piano, guitar, and synth lines. Two big tracks from the album are "Throw It Up(1)" featuring Gangsta Boo & Eminem as well as "Hard White(2)" alongside Lil Jon, but also check out "Animal(3)," "Slummerican Shitizen(4)," and "Made In The U.S.A. (5)."
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
new vinyl - hip-hop / vinyl new arrivals / hip-hop vinyl / current hip-hop

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Lee Fields And The Expressions
Ladies w/ Instrumental (45 Edit) 7"

sweet soul music

Standout tracks from Lee Fields' 2009 full length My World on a crispy black donut. "Ladies(1)" is the kind of sweet soul song that makes you forget how cold NYC winter gets (and it gets pretty damn icy!) and how nice the summertime in the city is. Authentic soul grooves that sounds like it could've come from the 70's, but they're from today. Instrumental on the flip, recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - 7" / 45s / funk + soul + latin + disco / truth & soul - vinyl / and more

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DJ Dus
Pssy Marijuana Cumbow (Brazilian Girls) 7"

rmx of Brazilian Girls hit

Cumbia specialist DJ Dus drops an ingenious DJ-friendly remix of the Brazilian Girls' hit "P*ssy." Is there a better chorus in the history of ganja-music? B-side goes deeper into the Cumbia crates for a drum-enhanced version of Andres Landero's "Cuando Lo Negro Sea Bellow(2)." Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / latin + brazilian + afrobeat / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz / and more

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Lord Echo
Things I Like To Do / Long Time No See 7"

modern afro-latin funk

Bastard Jazz with that feelgood, warm stuff. Lord Echo's "Thing I Like Do(1)" is the perfect combo of crisp American funk, latin vibes, and afro horns. This would be great in a skate video. B-side takes a detour into the boogaloo swamp with "Long Time No See(2)."
reviewed by the mgmnt

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

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Kanye West & Jay-Z
Watch The Throne (Double Picture Disc, Gold Embossed Edition w/ Poster) 2LP

highly anticipated collaboration from Kanye and Jay-Z, pic disc

Luxury rap from hip-hop/pop-culture royalty featuring luxury packaging in the form of gold embossed, cross shaped vinyl jacket (designed by Ricardo Tisci of Givenchy. This highly anticipated collaboration from Kanye and Jay-z is two of music's richest artists talking about the finer things of life over instrumentals by the RZA, Pete Rock, Q-tip, Swizz Beats, No I.D., Lex Luger, the Neptunes, Mike Dean, Ye' himself, and more. Recorded in London, Abu Dhabi, Sydney, Paris, and New York, Watch The Throne is flat out GOOD. On the music side, the album takes after My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy as orchestral and progressive rock influences create many dramatic, unconventional moments. As far as lyrics are concerned, Jay and Kanye trade, for the most part, sharp braggadocio verses that focus on "opulence, fame, materialism, power, and the burdens of success." Some have complained that the album focuses too heavily on the aforementioned themes, but the truth is, these dudes really are super rich and successful... so why shouldn't they talk about their good lives? "HAM(1)" and "Niggas in Paris(2)" are the standout club/radio bangers… For other picks, check out "No Church In The Wild(3)," "Lift Off(4)," "Made In America(5)," "The Joy(6)," "Otis(7)," "Welcome To The Jungle(8)," and "New Day(9)" aka the "me and the RZA connect" song. Guest artists include Frank Ocean, Beyonce, Curtis MAyfield, and Mr. Hudson, and as mentioned above, the 2LP (pic disc with Jay-Z and Kanye West images) album comes packaged in gold-embossed jacket. A 24" x 24" poster is included, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
new vinyl - hip-hop / vinyl new arrivals / hip-hop vinyl / current hip-hop / and more

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Teebs
Collections LP

exotic, colorful new school beats album

Come peruse Collections 01, a menagerie of songs from Teebs on the Brainfeeder label. Like a cluster of exotic birds, anthology of short stories or secret case of sparkling gemstones, Collections 01 further explores the world expressed in Teebs' previous album Ardour from several new perspectives. While drawing from the universe of Ardour, Collections 01 is more varied with more samples, each song containing specific elements that give it a unique character. Featuring tracks with harpist Rebekah Raff and Brainfeeder cohort Austin Peralta, the album offers a range of sentiment, always elegantly displayed. From hypnotic, dust-covered beats and languid daydreams to cascading shuffles and bright bursts of color, this beautiful collection is a further glimpse into the world behind the mind's eye of Teebs, painter of sound. Recommended.
reviewed by Alphapup

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

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Vex Ruffin
Crash Course EP

minimal/experimental music w/ punk influence

Penut Butter Wolf signed Vex Ruffin "on the strength of an unsolicited demo sent through the mail." A punk musician who creates music with hip-hop-oriented methods, Crash Course is Vex's debut release for Stones Throw. At the core of left-field musician is the SP 303 (Madlib-inspired purchase), which he uses to lay down drums and other sounds. Over simple rhythm patterns and melodies, Vex lays down vocals and the end result is a lo-fi, minimalist punk sound - check out "My Mind(1)," "Man With A Plan(2)," "Hey Jerald(3)," and "Sacrifice(4)." A Prince Klassen top pick!
reviewed by nakinboots

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

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Jonti
Twirligig LP

textured, experimental, and catchy psych-pop

Jonti is a multi-instrumentalist, arranger, producer, and vocalist making his splendid debut on Stones Throw. The album is influenced by the Australia-based artist's favorites: Madlib, Stereolab, Free Design and The Beach Boys (a sweet combination!). Cartoonist / filmmaker Norma Mclaren was also a huge inspiration, as Jonti explains "his films are complex, but they're still fun. You can feel his enthusiasm for techniques and experimentation." Tracks like "Firework Spraying Moon(1)," "Twirligig(2)," "Snickers Hiss(3)," "Spooky Sport(4)," "Solar Smoking Dogs(5)," and "Hornets Nest(6)" are based on the aforementioned "complex-but-fun" paradigm, making the album very accessible, but with plenty of intricate textures and layers for listeners to explore. Cool psychedelic patterns on the cover too. Recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

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vinyl new arrivals / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all

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Breakwater & Edwin Birdsong
Release The Beast / Cola Bottle Baby (Daft Punk Samples) 7"

funky Daft Punk sample-sources on 45

Double A-side featuring two prime Daft Punkn sample sources on 7"! Everyone will recognize the mean funkin' drums and synths from Breakwater's "Release The Beast(1)" as "Robot Rock," but you might turn some heads in the crowd when it breaks down into the raw funk of the original. Likewise on Edwin Birdsong's "Cola Bottle Baby(2)," the source material for "Harder Better Stronger Faster." Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco - crate classics / funk soul disco - 7" / 45s / funk + soul + latin + disco / 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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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

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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

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new vinyl - hip-hop / vinyl new arrivals / hip-hop vinyl / middle school hip-hop

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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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
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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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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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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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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Tim Tucker & Davinity
C'kret / Fishnets 7"

lost boogie and drum machine soul

Third release for RYSQUE Records out of Sacramento, CA. The label specializes in rare vintage boogie and drum machine soul in the same vein as PPU (who distributes their records) and unearths a couple unreleased cassette jams with this pair of joints from the Cali-based Davinity & Timothy Tucker. Apparently the dudes at the Beat Electric blog helped put this one together by befriending Tim Tucker and pestering him to dig up old recordings from the era. Reluctantly Tim dug up some old tapes, and now some 20+ years later we can all enjoy the drum machine soul of "C'Kret(1)" and "Fishnets(2)"! If you dug the lo-fi sound of Dam-Funk's Adolescent Funk, you'll definitely dig this...
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
funk soul disco 12" / funk + soul + latin + disco / vinyl new arrivals / funk soul disco

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