DEJA DISPONIBLE

3LW : A Girl Can Mack Cd on Epic/ Sony
3LW are the latest group of divas trying to sell some records. Just before the release of their sophomore album, A Girl Can Mack, the group dumped member Naturi Naughton for not being "ghetto" enough. Here's the deal: Adrienne Bailon is supposed to be the group's J.Lo and Kiely Williams is the Beyonce. That leaves Naughton, who was supposed to be the Mary J. Blige character. Naughton claims that management tried to exploit her because of her darker skin. Furthermore, she alleges she was abused in a food-fight, as Williams messed up her 'do with mashed potatoes. What does this have to do with the new album? Publicity! The drama has generated some badly needed buzz for the group's bland R&B. It's worth noting that Naughton's vocals were "ghetto" enough to keep on the album, and 3LW haven't searched for a replacement. Might these girlfriends reconcile after the album goes gold?
Acceptance : Lost For Words CD on Rocketstar Recordings
Gaining critical acclaim, ACCEPTANCE has combined a driving rock influence and a sophisticated pop element that allows for a continually different experience. The range in the style can be attributed to each member's individual and varied taste in music, as diverse as the FOO FIGHTERS to bands such AS LAGWAGON and even the timeless rock and roll of THE BEATLES. In the end, however, it's the individuality of each member combined as one that defines Acceptance.
Acid Mothers Temple : Electric Heavy Land CD on Alienate
The most groove heavy release yet by tokyo's acid mothers temple. Electric heavy land graces the areas of extreme stoner rock, full-on psych freak-out and even heavy metal.the recording is made of three tracks that at times will have listeners reminiscing over the likes of early mudhoney and monster magnet's spine of god-era sound. It's the one of the catchiest records from the incredibly prolific psych unit in recent times while the rock and psych influences are the most obvious, closer attention reveals beautiful kraut rock inspired patterns.the release is beautifully housed in our custom cardstock double gatefold packaging.
Action Spectacular : Everything's Going To Be Ko, Really .CD on Sugar Shack
Action Spectacular are five shameless and self-confessed "dirty fly-by-night Northern cowboys" hailing from Sheffield, and they come, somewhat excitingly, with every music journalist's aphrodisiac: a rambling and largely nonsensical rock'n'roll manifesto written in all manner of different fonts, suggesting that these are mad, bad and quite possibly very dangerous men to know. ..on Sugarshack (home to Redefine) Full Uk press & radio mailout.
Barry Adamson : King Of Notting Hill CD on Mute
Born and bred Moss Side, Manchester, Barry Adamson has had a prolific career starting with being the former bassist in Magazine and a founder member of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Since then Barry has developed his own unique sound of soulful funk and "The King of Nothing Hill" is Barry's most accessible album yet. As a hugely respected artist Barry has maintained a solid fan base and will have mass appeal to several different markets appealing to those that enjoy funk, beats, soul, jazz and simply very cool music! Barry Adamson is certain to cross over to new areas with this release.
Add N To X : Loud Like Nature CD on Mute
‘Loud Like Nature’, the follow up to 2000’s ‘Add Insult To Injury’, features 13 brand new tracks including the single ‘Take Me To Your Leader’ (7th October). Add N To (X) have delivered their finest collection to date and proved, yet again, that they’re an edgier, more extrovert and coherently schizoid band than any other functioning band around. Recorded by Ann Shenton, Barry 7 and Steve Claydon in London, New York and Sheffield, the album features contributions from Pulp guitarist Richard Hawley, J.P. Buckle (National Bandit), drummers Joe Dilworth & Goldfrapp’s Rowan Oliver plus long time collaborator, Dean Honer. There is also a guest appearance from legendary American producer Kim Fowley who provides the spoken word piece to the eerie ‘Invasion Of The Polaroid People’. . It hints at everything from hip hop to '50s rock 'n' roll and yet never settles on a recognisable sound. From the glamtronic opener 'Total All Out Water' to the frenzied, rock 'n' roll of 'Sheez Mine', the p-funk surrealism of 'Party Bag' and the pastoral analogue suite 'Up The Punks', the stomping single 'Take Me To Your Leader’ and synth thrasher 'Large Number', the album gathers up the band's history and spins it into gorgeously twisted nuggets.
Aden : Topsiders (CD). on Teenbeat
Fourth full length from DC pop quartet recorded in a cabin on Chesapeake Bay. All mixed in Nashville by Mark Nevers (Lambchop, Vic Chestnut, Hank Williams Jr., Johnny Cash, LeeAnn Rimes). Features Kevin Barker's banjo pickin' & newfound skills on Hawaiian B-Bender. Members of LADYBUG TRANSISTOR & ESSEX GREEN sing on one song. File between Galaxie 500 & Lambchop.
Airport Five : Tower In The Fountain Of Sparks CD on Fading Captain
New material from indie rocks' great songwriting duo robert pollard and tobin sprout. 'Tower in the fountain of sparks'is an amazing follow up to pollard and sprout's 1996 lyrical collaberation 'tonics and twisted chasers'. Instruments/vocals played and recorded by sprout at moonflower in leland, mi. While, pollard's vocals were recorded in dayton at cro-magnon in january, 2001. ' Tower' brings you sprout's crafted lo-fi multi chord guitar melodies combined with pollard's emotionally charged atmospheric vocals.
Alabama 3  : Power In The Blood
Led by Reverend Dr D. Wayne Love, Brixton's finest acid-house/country-rock combo return with another album devoted to the joy and misery of living in South London's infamous borough.Showcasing their own peculiar fusion of country, techno, euphoric trip-hop and twisted blues guitar, 'Power In The Blood', appropriately enough, is Alabama 3's third album - and their best yet; fourteen Alabama originals plus an inspired version of Springsteen's 'Badlands' anda cast list that includes Keith Allen, BJ Cole, Rolo McGinty, Eileen Rose and Irvine Welsh.
Allstar Reserves : What I Should Have Said CD on Mother Stoat
Allstar Reserves formed at the end of last year out of the ashes of Winner... Winner were at the forefront of the burgeoning Aldershot scene, having gone to the States to record their album they came back and and somehow self destructed with vocalist Ross leaving completely out of the blue, while they self destructed the Aldershot music scene went through the floor with bands that once had supported them now being offered very large sums of money and record deals Hundred reasons , Vex Red etc. Not one to get bitter bassist Tim and drummer Matt recruited a new Guitarist/vocalist in the form of Oli and set out making the music they wanted to . Their first gig saw a mass of interest but they decided to stick with their friends at Mother Stoat, the album was written and recorded in record time and has a raw powerful sound and they are now set to launch themselves on an unsuspecting public
Tori Amos  : Scarlets Walk
Not so much a collection of songs as a sonic novel,'Scarlet's Walk' is the brand new album from Tori Amos. Both highly personal and deeply political, it's an epic and thought-proving journey though America. A road trip in the classic Kerouac tradition, narrated by a character called Scarlet who is Amos herself and yet  who is also Everywoman. "Scarlet is walking in my shoes", says Tori. "You could say she's based on me. Or perhaps I am based on her". Populated by a cast of sometimes desperate but always fascinating characters  and rich in symbolism and allegory, it's both a voyage of self-discovery and an examination of the stark choices facing us in a world which often seems to have lost its moral compass. Partly inspired by the stories told by Tori's mother of her Cherokee family history and partly by the crisis of identity in contemporary America, it is also the most challenging, ambitious and vivid creation from Tori Amos's fertile imagination to date. Includes the single 'A Sorta Fairytale'.
Anacondas : Anacondas CD on Sonic Rendezvous
Spicy surfband from Amsterdam, with a taste for ballroom blitz and psychedelic bizarre. Guitar hero Johnny Torpedo mixes lead and rhythm into an original reverberato blend while cruising a dense grooving beat. Weird and sometimes threatening sounds are boiled up with the aid of several extra-terrestrial devices including an obscure monosynth. Includes a couple of great covers: The Clash 'Guns Of Brixton' and The Ventures 'The 9th Wave'. The Anacondas kick off yet another party!
And None Of Them Knew They Were Robots : Liebestod CD on In At The Deep
This highly anticipated follow up to Leeds quartet And None Of Them Knew They Were Robots self-titled debut sees the band move into new uncharted territories. Whilst still retaining the original intensity of their debut mini album on Pigdog records, 'Liebestod' sees the band take on an even more abrasive approach this time with a sound that can only be likened to that of classic MINOR THREAT. And None Of Them Knew They Were Robots are widely regarded as the best emo punk band the UK has to offer and this eight track mini album will finally ram the message home.
Anomoanon : Asleep Many Years In The Wood CD on temporary residence
The instantly recognisable warble and touching harmonies of the oldham brothers ned and will have been imitated ad nauseum more times than any of us can recall. Returning with his band, the anomoanon, ned oldham has carefully crafted an album ripe with country crooners, slow burning ballads and the occasional raucous back woods jam. Joining the band are brothers will (aka bonnie 'prince' billy), david heumann (also in bonny's band) and david michael curry on viola. Constant sellers on the drag city label, the anomoanan will appeal to the fans of palace, lambchop etc.
Apples in Stereo : Velocity Of Sound CD on spinART
Velocity Of Sound is a fitting title for the Apples’ fourth full-lengther — a good chunk of the disc sounds like a 33 being played at 45 RPM. Lead Apple Robert Schneider’s guitar spits out standard punked-up indie pop chords at a million miles an hour and his sped-up vocals are virtually indistinguishable from drummer/co-singer/woman Hilary Sidney’s. About half the songs sit somewhere between The Chipmunks and an old cub album — not very becoming for a popsmith of Schneider’s caliber. The second half of the album is much better with its revved-up pop-rock and the hint of darkness embedded in Schneider’s kiddie-pop singalongs, but compared to past glories like 1997’s gentler Tone Soul Evolution, Velocity is a let-down.
Appliseed cast : Lost Songs CD on deep elm
Fresh off the heels of their hugely successful and critically acclaimed double full-length LOW LEVEL OWL, THE APPLESEED CAST are back with nine new songs that marry their old-school and new-school songwriting styles. LOST SONGS combines the bitter emotional release of their earlier recordings and the meticulous soundscapes crafted through endless hours of studio time on more recent recordings. Dynamic song structures, hurricane-force rhythms and ultra-vivid lyrics paint bold portraits of lead singer Chris Crisci's pain, while at other points LOST SONGS overflows with symphonics, crescendos, swells of feedback and electronics. THE APPLESEED CAST have done it again. One word: groundbreaking. "The songs are so damn good. Nearly perfect. It's that amazing.." - Delusions of Adequacy * Recommended to Fans of: Slint, Pet Sounds, Sigur Ros, Mogwai, Godspeed You Black Emperor
Aqualung : Aqualung : CD on b-unique
Having produced one of 2002’s most intoxicating and aloofly blooming singles – ‘Strange & Beautiful (I’ll Put A Spell On You)’ – Aqualung have decided not to be a one-off, advert-soundtracked wonder; an album also entitled ‘Strange & Beautiful’ has been assembled and, let’s get this straight, is every part as atmospherically absorbing and tender as its high-profile title-track.
And, whilst we’re getting matters ironed out and verified for certain, let it be known publicly too that Aqualung is in fact one Matt Hales, the former-frontman of two-time indie-hopefuls, Ruth and The 45s. Whereas his prior projects relied on poppy exuberance via the means of cranked-up guitars, infectious three-minute arrangements and indie-boyish cuteness, Hales has now fled the roost to go it alone, using his ample enough skills of operating recording-equipment and way with a piano to create one of the understated, low-key albums of the year.
A voice every bit as softly mesmerising as Thom Yorke’s and a character with a penchant for mournful songwriting that even Elbow would have a difficult time finding faults within, as you glide from track to track through Hales’ deeply engaging and reflective melancholia, just try and hold back the heart-tugging pains in the chest and welling in the eyes.
Whether it’s the downtrodden openness of ‘Falling Out Of Love’, or slightly noisier and edgy ‘Good Time’s Gonna Come’, what becomes most apparent is a sense of melodic solemnity and lyrical directness which seems achingly absent from anything so accessible to the musical-mainstream – a location Aqualung could find themselves heading in the not so distant future. Further hymns for the heartbroken in all of us, ‘Tongue-Tied’ and the helplessly, shamelessly romantic ‘Can’t Get You Out Of My Mind’ are obvious numbers of merit, not to mention the shocking high-notes obtained and stretched within ‘Everything Changed’, seriously prompting the listener to justifiably ponder over whether the man has a full set of family-jewels. Still, whether such a matter ever becomes solved or not, the fact remains – this man has soul and pained sincerity by the bucket-load, and a competence for crafting and moulding compositions that will haunt and enchant long into the early hours of the morning.
It’s because of Hales so willingly offering to hang his heart on the line that as he hums, ‘If I fall, will you catch me’ – after hearing all this – you’d be treacherous not to oblige the man his humble request.
Arbol : S/T CD on Indus Sonica
Arbol is a new project from piano magic member miguel marin. Since leaving the band in early 2002, marin has scored several multimedia works and shorts films including working with renowned spanish film director bigas luna. This record is his first solo album. This collection of 13 songs (all published by rykomusic td/rocketgirl music) was recorded between 2001/02 at his home studio in north london and is released on the new london based electronic label "indus sonica", which is marketed by rocket girl. Using samplers and other electronic instruments mixed with acoustic elements, marin creates evocative soundtracks to images that only appear in the back of your mind. Fragments of melody drift through soundscapes of fragile beats taking the listener on a journey of melancholic elegance. Arbol's album contains contributions from suzy mangion of manchester band "george" on vocals, james topham on viola, paul tornbohm on bass and john cheves on melodica.
Arlo : Stab The Unstoppable Hero CD on Sub Pop
'Stab The Unstoppable Hero' is the second album from Los Angeles 'power pop' alchemists ARLO: 'power' here implying both electrified and sizzling like a live wire, 'pop' implying that particular cereal box optimism that stems from clever children who grow up into sardonic and lethally charming adults (or, as in the case of Arlo, mildly aged and road seasoned teenagers). Nate Greely and Sean Spillane (singers and guitar players both of them) come from the South (Texas), met while attending college in L.A., moved to Pasadena and formed Arlo with Shmed (bass) and former Beachwood Sparks/Further drummer Tom Sandford. 'Stab The Unstoppable Hero' builds upon the groundwork laid with their debut, 'Up High In The Night', adding new warp and weave to the band's pop-rock landscape (note the twang provided by Further/Beachwood Sparks guitarist Josh Shwartz on 'Up'). Unlike their debut, which was completely self-produced, 'Stab The Unstoppable Hero' is a co-production with Ben Vaughan. It's danger, a refreshingly defiant optimism and the aforementioned live wire power that arm Arlo as they stab the unstoppable hero. So, bet on the underdog for a change, take a few pokes at Goliath….
Atomoc 7 : Gowns By Edith Head CD on Mint
Fans of seminal Toronto instro-combo Shadowy Men From A Shadowy Planet will be happy to know that guitarist Brian Connelly has not ignored his instrument since that band's demise. Rather, he creates some of the finest twang bar guitar soundtracks around with his new outfit Atomic 7. They’ve been tearing up the club scene over the last year and have finally released their first disc, Gowns By Edith Head (named for the costume maker for all of Hollywood’s big budget flicks from the ‘40s to the ‘70s). As the lead track states, this one is "Chock Full O' Notes" as the boys wind through all the classic genres associated with this type of music: lounge, surf, spaghetti western soundtracks, rockabilly and country picking in the Roy Clark tradition. To top it off, these cuts have some of the best titles of any wordless tunes, including "Save Your Fork There's Pie" and "Artistry In Nachos." But I'll leave you to decide what's going on during "You Ain't Having Fun Till You're Dialling 911."
Autechre : Gantz Graf CD on Warp
Warp’s first DVD release fittingly by Autechre. The DVD will only be available in this package with the CD. The DVD package will feature 3 ep videos.‘Gantz Graf’ by Alexander Rutteford. Alex has previously achieved much acclaim with a series of experimental shorts screened at the ICA in conjunction with onedotzero. This video took 4 months to make and the attention to detail and editing shows a major new talent appearing on the horizon. ‘Bass Cadet’ Directed by J.S. Hunter. This video appeared on WARP’s ‘Artificial Intelligence’ video compilation and is directed by Jess Scott-Hunter, who also did all the 3D computer graphics on the Chris Cunningham video, and ‘Second Bad Vibel’ Directed by Chris Cunningham. The version included here has never been seen before, it has been completely remade for the DVD
Pete Aves : Bystanding CD on Little Brother
Bystanding,the second solo outing from high llamas guitarist and multi-instrumentalist pete aves, is an eclectic collection delivered with warmth, assurance,deftness and subtlety.delicate instrumental shading sets the mood next to the light,breezy,intimate and the mysterious.styles swirl and blend in songs which are clever without being contrived and wry without being sarcastic.the listener is rewarded with music that resonates with humility,intelligence,humanity and humour whilst passing the whistle test.aves' gift is his ability to reference his influences (sometimes several within the space of one song) whilst maintaining the unity and integrity ofmusic which expresses his own personality.anyone who can deliver with conviction a homage to french cinema in the style of early stereolab meets the kinks deserves your attention.
B9 : Infiltrator CD on Musicsystem
Infiltrator is b9’ s second album, while the first album, the critically acclaimed don’t worry it’ s b9, was a fresh twist on the drum’ n bass genre, the second album infiltrates (pun intended) genres like electro, drum’ n bass, ambient, slowbeat & even techno. On Infiltrator b9 continues his extraordinary attention to detail, the result is some very contemporary sounding electronica
B Movie Heroes : Rock Music CD on Changes One
The brand new 6 track mini album (7 if you count the hidden track) from Brit Rockers THE B*MOVIE HEROES. Formed from the still smouldering ashes of the YOYO's - Neil Phillips was the first out of the traps with new material. This is their 2nd release and an excellent slice of melodic, hook laden rock. With a track on the covermount of Metal Hammer in April, anticipation for this release is buzzing - expect excellent reviews across the board.. Top notch anthemic Pop/Rock in the vein of YOYO's, WILDHEARTS with nods to CHEAP TRICK, KISS & THE JAM along the way!
Bad Anorak 404 : Sun Plus Sea CD on Snowstorm
Debut album by liverpool's bad anorak 404. The band are essentially a one woman operation formed by lin sangster who was previously in kit with members of shack.the album has comes at a cheap introductory dealer price. John peel is a huge fan and has previously had lin sangster for a number of peel sessions.will appeal fans of shack and the young marble giants
Bad Astronaut : Houston: We Have A Drinking Problem CD on Honest Don’s
In the vastness of space, there is plenty of clutter, but Santa Barbara’s Bad Astronaut shines so strong that it lights solar systems. After a slow first few tracks, Bad Astronaut picks up and rocks out. The coupling of former Nerf Herder guy Marko 72’s energy and former Lagwagon lead Joey Cape's inspired lyrics makes for a surprisingly fresh ride. The occasional generic punk track is lost amongst the gems. Lyrically, the inspirations from Bowie and Radiohead are obvious, but Bad Astronaut carry their own feel.
Bad Wizard : Sophisticated Mouth CD on tee pee
Bad wizard’s follow up to last years sleazed out, 4k (kerrang) debut “free and easy”, is fast paced, charged, proactive rock at its finest. Melding blue cheer’s intensity, deep purple’s pomp and swagger meets the mc5’selectricity and bob segers “heartland” soul. Not only do “sophistaicated mouth’s” industrious intricacies show signs of the band’s maturity, they capture bad wizard’s live performance with stunning accuracy…
Ballboy : Guide For Daylight Hours CD on Sl Recordings
The long awaited debut album "proper" from Edinburgh's bittersweet BALLBOY. Ballboy have released four highly acclaimed (& best selling) eps over the last three years on Edinburgh's SL records. John Peel's a huge fans, having played almost every track the band ever released, invited them in to record a session at the prestigious Maida Vale studios, and they featured as part of an SL records night. Ballboy have also had great support from the Evening Session in Scotland, Steve Lamacq, and local radio stations across the UK. The album 'Club Anthems 2001' was a compilation of tracks lifted from their first first three EPs & received great write ups in the UK press "a mixture of incisive lyrical commentary and an intelligent way with a tune" Daily Mirror "a lush, engaging, alternately witty and wistful record" Q magazine "the Strokes may be cooler, but if you need someone to articulate your angst, ballboy are your band" tony naylor in the NME Ballboy will be touring again between now and the end of the year. the album features artwork by renowned artist and illustrator david shrigley, and will be accompanied by a booklet of his illustrations.
Bobby Bare Jr : Young Criminals Starvation League CD on Bloodshot
'"Young Criminal's Starvation League" flirts with Beatles-like harmonies and a fascination with early 70's style Nashville crossover hits, but also delivers a quick sucker punch to the past through literate, biting songwriting. This is not a Bare Jr. record. Those familar with that band (signed to Geffen) will not hear the special brand of "Southern Rock meets Nirvana" which makes them so endearing. Instead, our man Bare got together with his musical pals down in Nashville and recorded a post-punk platter of psychedelic melancholy. What emerges is a smarter, softer, but somehow still menacing Bobby Bare Jr. The amps might not be as loud, but that's so you can hear the words....Leave it to Mr. Bare, Jr. to pick the covers he picks. "Painting Her Fingernails," by Shel Silverstein is a perfect fit for Bobby, both subject-matter-wise and for his sing-song delivery, as well as including a guest appearance by dad, Bobby Bare Sr. There's also a countrified take on the Smiths' "What Difference Does It Make?" complete with pedal steel delivering the brooding echo of the original
Beatnuts : Originators CD on Landspeed
The Beatnuts are a Hip Hop dynasty, a power house with a Latin flavoured sound that’s instantly identifiable. The Beatnuts never disappoint, and The Originators is no exception to that rule. Since starting out as a couple of kids from Corona, Queens on a mission to create great beats, The Beatnuts have laid down a body of work that’s turned ears and heads for more than a decade. From their work with Naughty by Nature, Ghostface Killah, Big Pun, Mos Def, Money Love and Fat Joe to their own classic cuts like “Off The Books”, “Watch Out Now”, “Turn It Out”, and “No Escaping This”, The Beatnuts have created a legacy of sound. On The Originators Les and Juju deliver their trademark Latin spiced beats and the hot guests Beatnuts fans have come to expect. Joining The Beatnuts on The Originators are Cormega, Al Tariq (former Beatnut, formerly known as Fashion), Tony Touch, ILL BiLL from Non Phixion, as well as The Large Professor just to name a few. One of the most uncompromising groups in Hip-Hop deliver the best album so far this year, an album they have been wanting to make but have not had the artistic freedom to do so until now. For the first time in nearly 10 years The Beatnuts are finally free from the commercial pressures of Sony.
Bellini : Snowing Sun CD on Monitor
Damon Che (Don Cab) is the enormous rhythm section, Agostino Tilotta (UZEDA) on attacking guitar, Matthew Taylor completes the rhythm section on bass. Giovanna Cacciola (UZEDA) rounds out the band contributing vocals. Recorded by Steve Albini at Electrical Audio, the album has a heavy sound, sometimes hard, sometimes slow, always aggressive. It is the perfect marriage of bass, drums, guitar, and voice. The experience of the players is evident, this is no ordinary band. File Under: Angular Rock For Fans Of Don Caballero, Shellac, Uzeda
Below The Sea : Les Arbres Depayseront Davantage CD on Where Are My Records
Based in montreal and quebec city, this trio (formed of pascal asselin, patrick lacharité and mathieu lévesque) had already done a few gigs when they didn't even knew each other while experimenting with patrick's little 4-tracks.year 2000 took in 6 months of recording after they had signed with where are my records.their album would be released in europe and would start gaining more attention.collaborative efforts came along and the experience they gained pushed them to release a new more accomplished album. Les arbres dépayseront d'avantage was recorded this last winter and has been written over the course of their existence. Influences include labradford, slowdive, godspeed you black emperor!
Brendan Benson : Lapalco CD on V2
'Lapalco' is named after the main thoroughfare in Harvey, Louisiana, where Brendan, the son of a welder, spent his childhood. But the record itself commemorates Brendan's return to his birthplace of Detroit, where he lived out those all-important teenage punk years. The result is an album of heart-warming melodies and feel-good rock-out numbers, evoking the golden era of songwriting: The Beatles, T.Rex, David Bowie, The Kinks, Alex Chilton...even the likes of Squeeze and  ThePixies get a look-in. Includes the single 'Tiny Spark'.
Big Sur : Big Sur CD on All Action Figure Records
Debut album from big sur whose main influences are rem,bob dylan, neil young and the kinks. ”one consistent feature of this band is classic songwriting” uncut .the album features previous singles “jonny ain’t too cross” (mark & lard record of the week), “lonely when i’m down” (radio 2, xfm & glr playlists), “desert song” and the forthcoming single “75”.
Bilge Pump : Let Me Breathe CD on Gringo
Years ago, Colchester gave Leeds a man called Joe Mask. Now, in a pleasing moment of cultural exchange, Leeds gives Colchester (well, Gringo) the mighty Bilge Pump in return. The jewel of the north is well known for its steady turnout of self-sufficient, trend-proof rock wallahs. The Pump are no exception. These three men have forged a sound based on clang and whallop, given shape by the rollicking bonh(a)mie of Neil Turpin, a man who has loaned his rhythm to Him more than once. Think Gang Of Four bass tumbling over Led Zep drum-rollick, slammed up against gnarled, screeching King Crimson guitar fripperies from 'Our Joe,' a chap who is also known to millions for his tireless work in Red Monkey. This is heavy and off-kilter, but never turgid. Sharp melodies and upbeat delivery jump out with repeated listening. Bilge Pump, like McDonalds, are popular both in Europe (where they have toured extensively) and America, where they have released on the supreme Troubleman Unlimited stable. They will shortly be touring with kindred spirits Erase Errata in the UK. stopping off in the following cities; Leeds, Nottingham, Glasgow, Manchester, London, Newcastle. * ‘Let Me Breathe’ is the debut album from Leeds’ Bilge Pump, after some five years of playing around the UK and Europe, having had previous releases on Slampt and Troubleman Unlimited. * Bilge Pump are from the DIY hotbed of Leeds. They also share members with Him, Polaris, Red Monkey and Snail Racing.
Birdie : Reverb Deluxe CD on Apricot
A few weeks after their tour with St Etienne, PAUL KELLY and DEBSEY WYKES aka BIRDIE recorded a gorgeous version of 'Please Rain Fall' by the Seas Urchins.'Reverb Deluxe' features this along with other previously unreleased songs and long deleted b-sides. It's a collection of warm and tender moments - songs you can put on in the middle of the night, a soundtrack for stepping outside to watch the stars. The song 'Natural Star' feels like a shy hug by someone you've fancied for years, the melody of 'Lift Up The Sun' glows and shimmers like a bracelet with diamonds. Tracklisting : Such A Sound, Please Rain Fall (unreleased), Send And Receive, Silver Line (Reprise) (unreleased), Golden Image (unreleased), Natural Star, Lift Up The Sun, Shipwrecked, Thirty Dollar Drum (unreleased), Theme From Tired, Linus (Version).
Bitter Little Cider Apples : Still CD on Pink Hedgehog
This is the BITTER LITTLE CIDER APPLES's debut release, and once again proves that there is something very special about the music coming out of the often over-looked West Country music scene. Incredibly hard to categorize, they could be The Monkees for the 21st century... one minute they're pure garage pop (XTC or early R.E.M.), next thing you know they've mutated into The Cure, before evolving again into Neil Young and Crazy Horse. Having made all those comparisons, they don't really do the band justice... The band features Alan Strawbridge of THE LUCKY BISHOPS (signed to BEVIS FROND's Woronzow Records) and all The Bishops appear on this album and it also features Simon Swarbrick (Fairport's Dave Swarbrick's nephew!). This is more than just intelligent pop, with creative guitar work and infectious melodies, but if comparisons have to be made... then think along the lines of early R.E.M. and XTC
Blame : Into The Void CD on Good Looking
‘Into The Void’ is Blame’s long awaited debut solo album, a culmination of 5 years work with Good Looking, commencing with the historic ‘Logical Progression 2’ compilation and his very own 720 degrees stable. Templating his increasingly edgy, technological sound, Blame has pioneered warped electronic grooves in clubs all over the world, merging straight-up dancefloor weapons with spacious, but fractured time signatures. His vision is firmly embedded in this work, where electro beats super-collide with mechanical fx; icy vocoders slink with warped basslines – all the well established Blame trademarks of a sound that has gathered momentum and fans in every corner of the globe. This is the sound of the future now – a feast for electro epicureans and future funkateers
Blindside : Silence
Blindside is one Swedish rock band whose ship may have just arrived. With two memorable indie releases under their belt, the scorching foursome have signed with Elektra in the U.S, and have been busily putting the finishing touches to their Howard Benson (P.O.D)-produced debut. Despite the title, Blindside's much-anticipated disk is anything but silent. Marked by brilliant, flaring guitars that complement an almost mystical vocal presence, the group has carved out a rock masterpiece in a series of stunning, but simple strokes. The appeal of such immediacy was not lost on producer Benson. "I met them through P.O.D", says Howard. "They were blown away by how talented they were". Sonny of P.O.D, indeed heaps a fair amount of praise on Blindside. "They play with such a high level of emotion, I believe they will be the next big thing in rock. 'Silence' is by far the best album of the year, a refreshing break from all the cookie-cutter acts that are out there today".
Blood Brothers : March On Electric Children LP on Three 1g
Presold, and stocked ages ago (well a month or two) finally the press is comi ng throuh in droves, 4/5 in kerrang, 7/10 in nme this raging hardcore debut from the blood brothers (now signed to some high falutin usa major…oh well) is getting a lot of people hot under the collar, and rightly so! Produced by the band and ross robinson (slipknot, korn, all that corporate stuff, well he is practically responsible for nu-metal… cheers!). In the vein of drive like jehu, antioch arrow, and the crimson curse, this is urgent hardcore with wild rhtyhms, crazed / demented vocals and a really powerful sound!! Re-released, this will fly!!!!
Blood Or Whiskey : Blood Or Whiskey CD on Eire Records
Finally reissued, Blood Or Whiskey's self-titled debut album will tear a new arsehole for anybody within reach of this their superb punk debut. Previously unavailbale in the UK Blood Or Whiskey's manifesto is simple - to merge traditional Irish music (ala Pogues) with good time Punk Rock 'n' Roll!. Suffice to say that DROPKICK MURPHY'S admitted to ripping BOW's sound off on their latest album!. Hugely popular in the States and Europe 'Blood Or Whiskey' is A MUST HAVE for anybody who bought the bands second album 'No Time To Explain'. For Fans of: Operation Ivy, Clash, Pogues and oh yes... Dropkick Murphy's.
Blow : Bonus Album CD on K Records
The blow is a band comprised of khaela maricich. Formerly known as get the hell out of the way of the volcano, the blow has toured around the country and the northwest, playing shows of stories and songs made up beforehand as well as right there on the spot. Bonus album is a collection of songs that are outside the context of the blow’s more theme-based, operatic live pieces. These odds and ends are like the collection of artifacts that you find in the bottom of your purse, items that are small and necessary and reminiscent of something important, including a very suave take on wolf colonel’s “jet ski accidents”. The bonus album is foreshadowing of the blow spectacular (cd/lp) due in 2003.
Bluebird : Hot Blood CD on Sweet Nothing
After releasing a handful of eps, an ambient / soundscape album (more akin to mogwai ) and a debut full length, sweet nothing is pleased to announce the release of the new full length from la’s bluebird. Bluebird - a rock group from los angeles, california - a mess of hair,guitars, collision and exhiliration set to the odd light show, burning effigies and guest musicians. In the way that black sabbath or even queens of the stone age deftly blend heavy guitar riffing with shimmering vocal melodies, bluebird makes catchy pop songs driven by heavy layers of guitars. And jane’s addiction or for that matter early soundgarden in their prime ascent the guitar textures and tasteful "jams" are far more reminiscent of 60s psychedelia, 70’s warped skronk, and the mc5’s throttled power-riff breakdowns (in fact, former mc5 guitar god, wayne kramer makes a guest appearance on the track, "beautiful believer"), there is even nods to drive like jehu's patchwork guitar strata. Recent recruit, paul fig (ex-amen) adds further cohesion to this fivepiece hot blood was also self-produced, mixed by joe baressi (melvins, qotsa, weezer, jesus lizard) .
Blue Light Fever : Blue Light Fever .CD on Salt
Blue Light Fever is best described as dirty electro funk for the 21st century. Collaborations on the album include Little Annie (On-U Sound, Current 93, Coil, The Wolfgang Press), G-Sharp (Diceman), Adam McConnachie (a shady Mancunian with a sideline in sensitive poetry), and contributions from Lydia Lunch, Psychic TV and Current 93.
Blue Rodeo : Palace Of Gold CD on Warner
Although they still sound deliciously Canadian, an outsider might mistake Blue Rodeo as a bunch of California boys. More than ever, Palace Of Gold has the band intertwining classic Cali country-rock with big, bouncy sun-kissed pop. Palace Of Gold is an unmistakable Blue Rodeo album; the formulaic Keelor/Cuddy tension is in full effect and there are plenty of gentle country-pop ballads à la "Try." However, the band push their songs further than ever before. Bold, bright and complex, the Wilco comparisons are obvious and only a little unfair (if they hire Jim O'Rourke to produce the next one we'll get on their case). This may be Blue Rodeo's best album to date, which is hardly surprising coming from a band that gets better with age
Boas : Mansion CD on Overcoat
Info formed without the pretense of any final destination status and arriving seemingly out of thin air, boas debut full length mansion is a striking debut that boldly announces the arrival of great young band . Taking it's cues from jim white , syd barrett-era pink floyd, early royal trux and the red red meat/califone songbook, boas boastfully take on filtering the stone's exile on main street through a variety of lenses. ** boas feature members whose past include stints in the fire show, joan of arc, the dishes and piano magic. ** mansion features guest appearances by john herndon (tortoise), nick broste and josh berman
Botanica : With All Seven Fingers CD on Subway/alive
This botanica's second full length release, their debut "malediction" was described as an album of "grandeur, sweep, romance and edge". "with all seven fingers" picks up where "malediction" left off, casting its spell through 12 tracks of sultry grooves, leering waltzes, fragile beauty and flat out rock and roll. Even as it evokes a dash of the sensuous bryan ferry, a mournful croon worthy of leonard cohen, the vividness of lou reed or tom waits, or even the sharp ironies of the buzzcockz, this album never fails t osound like anything else than the collective of liars, thieves, con-artists and seductive geniuses that is botanica. Featuring kid congo powers, oren kaplan of firewater, and other guests.
Boom Box 2000 : S/T .CD on Orange Twin
Boom box 2000 is the most dynamic rap group that ever played! This is their debut album, it was Recorded in various by-the-hour motel rooms in athens, georgia on high quality equipment. If you like Batman and robin aka “the dynamic duo”, proffessional wrestling, beastie boys, you’ll love boom box 2000.
Bottleneck : Bottleneck CD on Hard Rain Records
New alt/roots country combo from Vancouver featuring the songwriting and singing talents of Scott Smith (ex-Bughouse 5) and Robyn Carrigan (Daisy Duke, Sara McLaughlin), with cameos from Juno winning Jesse Zubot on violin. Haunting and heartfelt stuff Guitar, steel, banjo, accordian, dobro, etc, as produced and recorded by Chon (Radiogram, Destroyer etc ). "Would sound good on a mixed tape with: Lucinda Williams, Gram Parsons, Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris, Fairport Convention, The Rolling Stones, Ron Sexsmith, Tammy Wynette, John Prine. Canadian press say - "Takes you down a familiar country road you have never traveled and back to a city street you never left." "A really impressive debut in the style of Gram Parsons and Emmylou Harris". "Not one bad track - without a doubt a candidate for this year's list of best CDs".
David Bowie : Best Of Bowie Cd on EMI
Although most people that like Bowie will already own the Sound And Vision collection (if not every album), this new double CD Best Of Bowie is a solid collection spanning the career of the former David Jones from Space Oddity up to Heathen. All the hits are here ("Changes," "Let's Dance") as well as less-played favourites ("Life On Mars?", "Scary Monsters (& Super Creeps"). Although the liner notes are less than stupendous — nothing more than production notes, a few photographs and a picture of Bowie comprised of, um, other pictures of Bowie. So, while this would be a better package if there was something to read (or rare photos to look at), musically speaking this is all the Bowie the casual listener needs.
Boysetsfire : Live for Today cd on Wind-Up/Sony
More than two years after their much-heralded record After The Eulogy, this Delaware-based quintet give fans a brief taste as to what their new record (being released in April) will bring. Opening track, "Release The Dogs," casts a new light on the reaction of the American public post 9/11. That happens above crunching guitars and a driving bass line. The two other new songs lack the same intensity of the opener and are more radio-friendly. The three live tracks truly show that Boysetsfire deserve all the attention they get for being a hell of a live band and hopefully more of that intensity will find its way to the studio.
Brando : Single Crown Postcard CD on Recordhead
Hailing from sunny bloomington, indiana, brando have spent the last 10 years in their basement recording masterpiece after masterpiece with all of the world oblivious to such material. With a handful of self-released cassettes, two "best of the unreleased" compact discs, and the 2001 eighteen song mini-marathon of an album, 'the headless horseman is a preacher', brando are now prepared to bring their brand of sonically intriguing song-cycles to the masses. While spending so much time recording on their own, brando have learned to squeeze every last bit out of their 4-track studio enabling them to be a creative force without suffering the loss of the home recorded warmth we all love and clamor for. On record, their sound is an eclectic mix inspired by equal parts dukes of stratosphere and galaxie 500.
Bratmobile : Girls Get Busy .CD on Lookout
'GIRLS GET BUSY' is the 2nd album from the highly influential and well respected pioneers of the Riot GRRL movement BRATMOBILE since their reformation in 1999. In the past 3 years they've grown tremendously in their songwriting and musical vision, and 'Girls Get Busy' is a testament to that. Combining biting political commentary with humour, irony, emotion and New Wave Punk Rock. Songs such as "Shop For America" and "United We Don't" comment on the state of teh US since Sept 11, while "Shut Your Face" looks at the issues surrounding disappearance of Washington intern Chandra Levy. Musically Bratmobile have taken it to the limit, adding new elements like bass & keyboards to their trademark simple catchy punk formula creating a real livewire of a record.
Brave Captain (Martin Carr)  : Advertisements For Myself
'Advertisements For Myself' is the brilliant second full length album from Bravecaptain aka Martin Carr, formerly of The Boo Radleys. The follow-up to 2000's critically acclaimed 'Go With Yourself', this album takes listeners on an amazingly varied musical journey that immediately brings to mind Carr's acknowledged masterpiece, 'Giant Steps'. With 19 tracks that range from pure pop to Aphex style electronics to mash ups worthy of Kid 606, 'Advertisements' once again displays Carr's still-disarming grasp of a tune, albeit one swamped with obscure, experimental panache.
Brian Jonestown Massacre : Bravery Repetition And Noise CD on Bomp
Another masterful dose of maximum rock'n'roll, mathematical pop and majestic psychedelia from America's greatest rock'n'roll band, on America's greatest rock'n'roll label, at greatest rock'n'roll record stores and distribution networks everywhere!. Songs include: Just For Today, Telegram, Stolen, Open Heart Surgery, Nevertheless, Sailor, You Have Been Disconnected, Leave Nothing For Sancho, Let Me Stand Next To Your Flower, If I Love You I Love You Always. Quote: "It's about love and fluids".
Broken Social Scene : You Forgot It In People CD on Paper Bag
The first thing you have to know about Broken Social Scene is their composition. Headed by Kevin Drew (KC Accidental) and Brendan Canning (ex-By Divine Right), Broken Social Scene also happen to feature a revolving cast of virtually every going-nowhere guest star-type on the Canadian indie rock scene. A sampling of the bands that contribute to BSS include Do Make Say Think, Stars, Metric, Raising The Fawn, Bourbon Tabernacle Choir, Feist, Royal City and godspeed you black emperor. It's a mixed bag of Queen Street-friendly ne'er do wells for sure, but the end result is vastly superior to the sum of its parts. In You Forgot It In People, the Social Scene collective have managed to create an album that's subtle and elegant without being boring or prissy. Over the course of the record a pattern emerges. Light, twinkly passages build up to noise rock and back down again. But the noise is a mere set-up for some wonderful songsmithery. "KC Accidental," the first proper song, admirably sets up the beguiling hand-clapper "Stars & Sons" and the fuzzed out "Almost Crimes." From there, the gentle "Pacific Theme" signals the next shift towards album highlight "Cause = Time." When sitting back and listening with your headphones on and not dissecting various movements, You Forgot It In People makes for a wonderful trip. Bold and dignified, if any epic indie rock outfit makes waves this year, let it be Broken Social Scene.
Broken Spindles : Broken Spindles CD on Tiger Style
Broken Spindles is the musical brainchild of Joel Petersen (also of THE FAINT) - early 80's inspired electro-pop in a modern electro clash stylee.... * This is the debut release from the Broken Spindles, bridging the gap between Faint albums · Broken Spindles plan to tour in early 2003 For Fans Of: Fischerspooner, Duran Duran
Pieta Brown :  Pieta Brown CD on Trailer/rubric
The first CD from Pieta Brown, daughter of Grammy-nominated US folk singer Greg Brown. On her debut disc, she demonstrates some musical common ground with her father, along with notable differences. Like her father, Pieta Brown possesses a talent for songwriting, she sings with a sultry, slightly slurry style that works well with her jazz- and blues-flavored tunes, her music more closely resembles that of LUCINDA WILLIAMS. Creating a musical bridge between to the two women is Bo Ramsey. A frequent Lucinda Williams producer and sideman, Ramsey shines here in his dual role of producer and lead guitarist, bringing his signature sound to the project. Pieta Brown's haunting style brings to mind other artists as well as Lucinda, combining her folk writing skills with the languid smoky vocal sound of The Cowboy Junkies and Mazzy Star
Jackson Browne  : Naked Ride Home
Over the course of three decades, Jackson Browne has written and performed some of the most literate, moving songs in popular music. With classic albums like 'The Pretender', 'Late For The Sky' and 'For Everyman', he has defined a genre of songwriting that is charged with honesty, emotion and personal politics. At once poetic and elegant, spiritual and sad, the music on 'The Naked Ride Home' - his first studio album of all new songs since 1996 - catalogues the human conditionwith a grace and brilliance that have become trademarks of Browne's work.
Bruces : War Of The Bruces CD on misra
A card-carrying member of lambchop, a regular contributor to the live and recorded works of vic chesnutt, and one-third of empire state, this omaha native will spend the fall opening up for bright Eyes. Give up? For such a ubiquitous talent, too many have missed out on the understated genius of Alex mcmanus. But no more. Mcmanus¹s one-man band, the bruces, all but dormant for seven years, is Back with album number two, and the war of the bruces proves worth the wait. Recorded by lambchop member and noted producer mark nevers (vic chesnutt, jenny toomey, leann rimes, silver jews) at nashville’s beech house, the war of the bruces checks in with a newfound high fidelity that highlights mcmanus’s intricate take on indie-fied electric folk. The songwriter recently relocated from athens, Ga, to his native omaha, and he traverses all the homestyle musical territories from point a to point b. Mcmanus will be a member of bright eyes’ live band while the bruces join bright eyes on their lengthy U.s. tour beginning this fall.
Franklin Bruno : Cat May Look Like A Queen CD on Absolutely Kosher
Franklin Bruno returns from a two year silence with the most mature, accomplished and cohesive album of his career. One of the most gifted lyricists around - Franklin is perhaps best known for fronting indie pop pioneers Nothing Painted Blue, he’s a music critic & an underground pop institution with a solid cult following. Guests on the album include members of Calexico, Nothing Painted Blue, Refrigerator and Jonathan Richman’s band.The album was half recorded by Dave Trumfio (Wilco, Mates of State, Handsome Family) and half with Craig Schumacher (Calexico, Giant Sand, Brokeback).
Burnung Brides : Fall Of The Plastic Empire Cd on V2
Finally, a band that deserves the heaps of attention it’s getting. Packed with monster riffs, groovin’ beats and heroin chic musicians, it’s no wonder that people are blabbing about the Burning Brides like they’ve built a better mousetrap. They have — at least with Fall Of The Plastic Empire, an album that manages to ride the line between serious music and fun rawkin’. It’s more of a sludgy, big-guitar New York trash album than the garage rock it’s being heralded as. A sonic blast coupled with a hip shakin’ groove, Fall Of The Plastic Empire is like Goo-era Sonic Youth playing Volume 4-era Black Sabbath instruments. Occasionally they slip into Mooney Suzuki-styled punk rock ‘n’ roll, but songwriter Dimitri Coats has way more melodic sensibility than the heroes he’s honouring, making for a truly diverse, always entirely enjoyable listen.
Reto Burrell  : Shaking Off Monkeys CD on Blue Rose
Applying a punk attitude to hook-laden pop, singer/songwriter Reto Burrell is creating some of Europe's most exciting music. A veteran of the Swiss music scene for more than a decade, he was raised on a healthy sampling of American rock and R&B records that belonged to his England-born father, and the influence of American music on Burrell is obvious. Rather than singing in Swiss German or incorporating Swiss folk influences, Burrell sings in English and credits American pop-rock bands, including the Wallflowers and Sheryl Crow. "Tom Petty has been a favourite of mine since I was a kid," he said. "Through his songs, I learned how important it was for a song to have a hook". Whilst his 2001 debut album, 'Echo Park' displayed the acoustic side of his musical persona, Burrell's latest effort 'Shaking Off Monkeys' is a pop-rock masterpiece. "We ended up taking out the electric guitars and rocking up this next album." 'Shaking Off Monkeys' was recorded in New York, produced by Adam Steinberg (Todd Thibaud) and mastered by Howie Weinberg (Nirvana, Sheryl Crow, Oasis).
Butterflies Of Love : New Patient CD on Fortuna Pop
PRIORITY RELEASE: The Butterflies Of Love are based around the songs of singer and guitarist Jeffrey and Daniel Greene. Jeffrey is a New York based artist who works around the world curating exhibitions, while also teaching art to the inmates of local prisons. Dan is a Justice of the Peace and High School teacher. The remainder of the band consist of Scott Amore (keyboards), Pete Whitney (bass) and Neil O'Brien, ex-Van Pelt (drums). 'The New Patient' is their second album and was recorded with Mike Deming (producer of The Lily's No. 1 hit single 'Nanny In Manhatten', Beachwood Sparks etc). With the release of the single 'Wild' (Fortuna Pop!) in 1999 The Butterflies of Love were described as "the best new band in America" by Melody Maker. The next single, 'It's Different Now' (Fortuna Pop!) went one better, making the coveted Single of the Week spot in the NME. A session was recorded for John Peel's legendary Radio 1 radio show, along with sessions for John Kennedy (XFM) and Sean Hughes (London Live). The debut album, 'How To Know The Butterflies Of Love' on Fortuna Pop! contained 12 sparkling and emotive songs that stand alongside anything in America's guitar-rock canon. Co-produced by Mike Arafeh and by the critically acclaimed Mark Mulcahy (ex-Miracle Legion), who also contributed backing vocals and drums, the album received glowing reviews in the NME, Select, Mojo, The Times and The Guardian, and garnered comparisons to Galaxie 500,Pavement and The Go-Betweens. 'The New Patient' includes the singles 'Wintertime Queen' , 'The Mutation' and 'Dream Driver'
Cabaret Voltaire : Original Sound Of Sheffield CD on Mute
Compiled and remastered lovingly by founder member Richard H. Kirk, this compilation covers Cabaret Voltaires unquestionably best, most creative and influential period. Capturing the bands finest moments in chronological order starting at "Do The Mussolini (Headkick), through the outstanding classic ‘Nag Nag Nag’ finishing at ‘Loosen The Clamp’. This compilation follows the release of the single ‘Nag Nag Nag’ on Novamute, which featured brand new mixes by Tiga & Zyntherius, Akufen and Richard H. Kirk himself as well as the original. The sound of Cabaret Voltaire, is more relevant today than it ever was, at this snap shot in time, they are probably the most influential and exciting electronic band Britain has ever produced..
Caesura : More Specific, Less Pacific CD on 54 40 Or Fight
Debut full-length from this San Francisco trio who write unique, dense, scattershot rock that goes for the jugular. More Specific, Less Pacific is forty-five stunning minutes of smart, riveting stuff that will have folks lining up outside the club waiting to see Caesura bring it live. RIYL: Gang of Four, Unwound, Sweep the Leg Johnny, Minutemen, the Jesus Lizard, early Unsane, Mission of Burma etc
Candidate : Nuada CD on Snowstorm
Candidate follow up their “tiger flies” album with an album of music inspired by the cult film the wicker man. It is released thirty years (to the week) from when filming wrapped on the movie.the first 3,000 copies of the album come in a numbered card slipcase and feature a 12 minute documentary film “singing and dancing on a sunday” which follows candidate around the original locations from the film.the album includes guest contributions from folk legend bert jansch and jason hazeley from ben and jason.interest in the wicker man has never been higher with the directors cut being issued as a dvd earlier in the year, a hollywood remake on the horizon and christopher lee’s continued enthusiasm for the film.press is being done by hermana p.r. the last album received universally great reviews and this album looks set for even more.
Neko Case  : Canadian Amp CD on Lance Rock
NEKO CASE has two fine solo albums (The Virginian and Furnace Room Lullaby) on Mint and Bloodshot records, she is a member of the New Pornographers and the Corn Sisters and is finishing off her fourth solo album for release later this summer. If you don't know what she sounds like, she is an old school country crooner with as strong a voice as you can imagine, with updated indie sensibilities. 'CANADIAN AMP' was initially released as a tour and mail order only CD last year on Neko's own Lady Pilot label, comprised of Neko mostly solo in her kitchen, covering the work of Canadian artists such as Sook-Yin Lee, Mike O'Neil (Inbreds), Neil Young, Lisa Marr, updates of Hank Williams tracks, and a pair of new originals. The feel is more morose and stripped down than on her previous albums, Demand for the limited CD was overwhelming, and she has decided to let Lance Rock put it out as a VINYL-ONLY RELEASE - there are no plans at present to release a CD version. Limited quantities available
Cassius : Au Rêve CD on  Virgin
Cassius appear to have taken a page from the book of French cohorts Daft Punk and Air, following up a brilliant album with a half-baked release. Au Rêve builds upon the austere house/disco grooves of Philippe Zdar and Boombass’s last album, 1999, and the admonishments are often unwelcome. Guitar-driven pabulum like "The Sound Of Violence" and "I'm A Woman" add an unwelcome rock edge to the fuzzy house beats. Should it be any surprise that they're the two lead singles? "Thrilla" features Ghostface Killah clumsily twisting his tongue around a alluring synth arpeggio. Why not just settle with the synth? There are redeeming moments, such as "Telephone Love," but those moments are few and far between. Imagine one of those chilled-out modernist rooms that get featured in wallpaper* magazine. Now imagine it being redesigned by Martha Stewart with oodles of faux-warm accoutrements. The former room was 1999, the new room is Au Rêve. Which would you rather use to entertain friends? The answer will likely indicate your taste for this album
Cave In : Tides Of Tomorrow CD on Hydra Head
song mini album of exclusive songs - over half an hour of brand new unheard material from Boston's sonic astronauts. Carrying on their knack for progressive, melodic, epic rock & roll recalling RADIOHEAD, PINK FLOYD, SMASHING PUMPKINS, VOIVOD & LED ZEPPELIN whilst maintaining the metal/hardcore dynamics when necessary..... Their previous album "Jupiter" continues to sell as more and more people get exposed to their unique sounds,
Tracy Chapman  : Let It Rain
Few artists can match Tracy Chapman's gentle but passionate vibrato, her literate lyrical compassion and her uncompromising stance. From the startling honesty of her multi-platinum debut, which features the now-classic 'Fast Car', to the phenomenal reaction she received for 2000's 'Telling Stories', she has always shared with her audience stories that matter and songs that ring true. 'Let It Rain', Chapman's sixth studio album, was recorded during this summer in a studiooverlooking the San Francisco Bay. Tracy co-produced with John Parish (PJ Harvey, Eels,Sparklehorse), and found a core group of musicians to track the twelve songs: drummer Joey Waronker, bassist Andy Stoller, keyboard-player Patrick Warren, and guitarists Joe Gore, Steve Hunter and Greg Leisz, as well as additional strings and vocals. Showcasing some of Chapman's most hauntingly beautiful vocals to date, this stunning new collection includes the single'You're The One' as well as the bonus track 'Over In Love'.
"I found John Parish through several unconnected events. First: while auditioning musicians to record my new album, I received a letter and resume from Joe Gore, a guitarist who has worked with PJ Harvey and recently with the Eels. I had many of the records Joe had worked on in my collection and while listening to some of them I noticed John Parish had musician and producer credits. Next: a friend gave me the recent Sparklehorse CD and I found John there as well.In looking for a
co-producer I really wanted to work with someone who could bring a musician's sensibility to the process of recording. John and I spoke by phone several times and then met in San Francisco to talk about the mechanics of recording and to listen to music. I found that, in spite of our different backgrounds, we had some overlapping musical tastes - T.Rex, David Bowie, Johnny Cash... Upon meeting John I was impressed by his forthright nature and sense of  humour - qualities he displays throughout the making of the record, along with his willingness to let the method serve the song, the needs of the musicians" - Tracy Chapman
Chargers Street Gang : Holy The Bop Apocalypse CD on Get Hip
Straigh outta controllsville, by way of cleveland, comes holy the bop apocalypse, the debut album from the chargers street gang. The pride of ohio serves up an audio reminder why people loved rock and roll in the first place. Imagine a mix of detroit rock city, cleveland bile (pere ubu, rocket from the tombs, dead boys) and stoens swagger…all mashed together under the watchful ears / eyes of tim kerr (lord high fixers etc), this is the mc5, sun ra and stooges chewed up and spat out with the ferocity of the first new bomb turks lp!!
Chinkees : Searching For A Better Future (CD) on Asian Man
From San Jose, California comes the third full-length release from THE CHINKEES. “Searching for a Brighter Future” is a forceful mix of rock-steady, ska, and punk rock. Dealing with a plethora of topics from wartime comfort to women of Korea and war to family struggles and racism, the music is enriched by a Hammond Organ, the band combines the political energy of OPERATION IVY with the smooth drive of the SPECIALS.
Christa Fast And Others : Die Nixe (The Mermaid) CD on Roof
Performed in German and English (the two versions follow each other on the CD) 'Die Nixe (The Mermaid)' is a spoken word/experimental music atmospheric re-telling of the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale. This CD takes the form of a musical radio play with atmospheric underwater musical accompaniment. Created by Christa Fast, wife of legendary producer Conny Plank and recorded at his studio, the music is provided by Annette Humpe with legendary CAN members HOLGER CZUKAY and JAKI LIEBEZEIT, and on the English version guest vocals and narration are by PETER GABRIEL and ANNIE LENNOX.
Cicero Buck : Delicate Shades Of Grey CD on Super Tiny
Cicero Buck are a duo comprising of American singer Kris Wilkinson and English songwriter Joe Hughes, and they produce a delicate blend of alt.country/Americana and UK acoustic rock. Kris' roots are in Mississippi and in the US country/blues tradition, whilst Joe's history includes the band The Lover Speaks, and he wrote the song 'No More I Love Yous', a hit for Annie Lennox. Since meeting in Nashville and moving to the UK, Cicero Buck have developed a gentle acoustic pop sound, reminiscent of Everything But The Girl or Eddi Reader, mixed with the literate country edge of Patty Griffin or Mary Chapin Carpenter. Evocative vocals, swirling acoustic ambience, and classic understated melodic American songcraft.
Cinema : Before The Dark CD on Domino
First LP from downtempo self confessed movie soundtrack buffs Cinema. Producers of Belle & Sebastian, The Delgados, Pastels etc. getting laidback & philosophical on their days off . Cinema tell us: “The album is not the dark epic that many foresaw. And neither is it intended as the "soundtrack to an imaginary film" that some will suggest. However, the album was conceived as a whole and is no random collection of tracks - all have been written specially for the album and each evokes its own particular feeling. Organic sounds and live instruments fuse with solid rhythm tracks, creating instrumentals that have both depth and immediate impact. The overall mood is optimistic, but with melancholy undertones in places”.
Cky  : Infiltrate Destroy Rebuild
Written and recorded on CKY's uncompromising time and vision, 'Infiltrate.Destroy.Rebuild' finds them on message and backing up every bold word with more audacious, expansive, laser-sighted rock and roll. During the sessions, CKY's purity of vision was held at a premium and done completely devoid of outside influences. "We had no record company involvement", states guitarist Chad Ginsburg. "We mixed it, produced it, everything. It's exactly the way we wanted it, exactly the waythat we handed it in. We put a lot of passion into the album and we won't settle with anything less than perfect. What you get is a CKY album. The real sh*t".
COCO : C.O.C.O. Sound CD on K Records
Chris and olivia, city of olympia, that is c.o.c.o. The c.o.c.o. Sound, harder to define. Chris sutton is also known for his work as bass player in dub narcotic sound system. In c.o.c.o. He plays the drums, with olivia on the bass. This is their second album, and it continues their heavy emphasis on the dance quotient in music, exploring different sides of the funk. Using the bare minimum, stripping it down to the bass and drums, breaking it down to it¹s essence, but being fully soulful and melodic at the same time. It is a sound refined, yet garagey. A mix of stax southern soul and thee headcoats; a sound equally influenced by the gories, esg, & trouble funk. Their high energy live shows always have the dance floor crowded. They have toured the u.s. With sleater-kinney and white stripes
Coin Op  : Friendly Fire
Coin-Op consist of Nick Hills (vocals/keyboards/guitar), Matt (vocals/guitar), Craig (bass/vocals) and Matt (drums). They currently reside in Brighton, England. In February 2002 the Panda posse stumbled across Coin-Op in the Dublin Castle in Camden. Astounded by the quartet's art-pop-punk sensibilities and the fact that singer Nick looked alarmingly like a young Mick Jagger, Fierce Panda offered Coin-Op a plan. And that plan was to release three seven-inch singles and a mini-album within the space of six breathtaking months. The first 7" was 'Democracies' and saw the blight of day on June 10th. The second 7" was 'Southpaw' and was released on July 22nd. The third 7" 'The Curve' is due for launch on October 10th. In the meantime, 'Friendly Fire' does everything it says on the tin and features all these singles plus a few more.
In the midst of all this frantic activity Coin-Op have found time to play live with an eminent selection of fine acts such as The Yeah Yeah Yeahs,The Rapture, The Parkinsons, Easyworld, The Polyphonic Spree, The Bellrays, Bobby Conn and British Sea Power. On one particularly historical, not to mention hysterical Saturday in the summer they woke up in the morning in Brighton, played Oxford's Truck Festival at lunchtime and headlined a Fierce Panda evening at Sheffield Leadmill the same night. On another somewhat frazzled summertime day Coin-Op popped into Maida Vale to record a Peel session AND an Evening Session Unsigned session. These people are not lazy.
Coin-Op are, however, driven and dangerously warped. Oft perceived as a frantic hybrid of The Fall, Clinic and supremely early (ie arty and wired) Blur, Coin-Op make intelligent, battered wig-out pop which crashes through perceptions first and asks questions later.
Edwyn Collins - Orange Juice  : Casual Introduction: Best Of
Edwyn Collin's life story began with a Glasgow schoolboy punk band called the Nu-Sonics which metamorphosised into Orange Juice, who, with their self financed label Postcard Records, blazed a trail and established a new genre at the start of the eighties.After a clutch of jewel-like indie singles, the band moved to Polydor Records. Four albums, starting with the classic 'You Can't Hide Your Love Forever', and a couple of hit singles later, Orange Juice were no more. Edwyn's career as a solo entity began in 1987, but it was not until 1989 that he found a home for his first solo album,'Hope and Despair'. Following on from the success of this, Edwyn moved more towards steering every aspect of his recordings, i.e. self-producing, resulting in 1994's 'Gorgeous George' (containing the hit single 'A Girl Like You'). This worked rather well, and since then he has continued to enjoy the fruits of his labours at his own studio inWest Hampstead in London. This is the first time a collection of Edwyn's material both in Orange Juice and from his solo years has appeared together. Selected by Edwyn himself, it represents just a smattering of his mighty canon!
Phil Collins : Testify Cd on WEA
This isn't a comeback in any traditional sense. But, for his millions of fans worldwide, it is bound to be viewed as a hugely welcome, long-awaited return to a territory few artists understand better or have mastered with greater success. Phil Collins has been pursuing other avenues of late, both with his acclaimed Big Band project and, as an Oscar, Golden Globe and Grammy Award-winning writer of music for Disney's 'Tarzan'. But now, with 'Testify', he places himself firmly withinthe realm of grown-up pop once again. Inspired by his new marriage in 1999 and his new fatherhood in 2001, 'Testify' is a captivating, wide-ranging collection of powerful, moving songs - all defined by Collins' signature voice and unmistakable musical imprint. If you're in the market for flawless compositions, lyrics suffused with adult emotions, then look no further. Phil iis - and always has been - your man.
”The songs for this album were written over the last two years. Working with new toys and new tools, they pretty much wrote themselves, and only occasionally needed nudging along. Though I used 90% of my demos, I was lucky to have a fantastic team to help me finish the record,particularly Rob Cavallo, Allen Sides, Tim Pierce, and James Sanger. There are some songs here that are amongst the best I have ever written; I hope you agree”. Phil Collins
Colorsound : Youre Only As Good As Your Sound CD on Rayman
Welcome to the surreal world of colorsound. A world where rich musical soundscapes collide with hypnotic beauty to create an immersing experience few will ever forget. "you're only as good as your sound", was previously released in australia and america on summershine records through sub pop, which earned colorsound impressive critical acclaim. In the september cmj new music report, david newgarden gave the album a "jackpot review" describing it as "perfectly focused, with throbbing drones and vibrant guitar tones, in the spacemen 3 style of songwriting.". Then, thom duffy, in his home and abroad column for american billboard magazine wrote - "one of the most hypnotic and alluring bits of music to appear in recent weeks", whilst in rolling stone, jeff apter wrote this is somnambulistic pop which is ideal mood music for your next dip in the sensory deprivation tank". Now digitally re-mastered, with brand new artwork and bonus track ‘sea of color’
Congiure one : Congiure one CD on Nettwerk /EMI
Front Line Assembly/Delerium partner Rhys Fulber goes solo for a project that, like Delerium, features guest vocalists and a sinister, percolating undertow beneath the innocent surface. Vocal talent from Poe and Sinead O'Connor (her track is the first single) are definite highlights. Most of the album takes the Delerium direction even further, almost becoming conventional at times. Traces of Euro-pop bring the beats down to a slower pace, but there’s still that underlying creepiness that hopefully won’t ever disappear entirely.
Converge / hellchild : Deeper The Wound CD on Deathwish Inc.
The 1st release on Jake Brannon's new label teams up 2 of the world's most extreme bands for a stunning scarefest: first up, Boston's CONVERGE serve up 5 tracks including a ground-levelling version of DEPECHE MODE's "Clean", before handing over to Tokyo's HELLCHILD who weigh in with 4 slabs of brutality for your entertainment. Awesome artwork from Derek Hess & Florian Bertmer.. Sheer marvellous international extremity and torment!
Cooler : Oh Happy Day CD on Ear X Tacy
Kentucky's answer to Weezer - COOLER play honest rock blessed with an almost impossible balance betweeen punk- like integrity and tongue in cheek nostalgia…Influenced by the sweet pop rock of the 70's, as well as the hook laden synth pop of the 80's, the band rocks hard but maintain a keen accessible pop sensibilty that is both fresh and familiar. Lyrically Coooler deliver universal themes like heartache & longing, delivered with poignant simplicity and a sardonic wink! Very classy power pop…
Copperpot Journals : Plotting To Kill Your Friends CD on Firefly Recordings
After shows with the likes of RIVAL SCHOOLS, BOYSETSFIRE, CAVE-IN, HUNDRED REASONS as well as countless shows with their future Firefly labelmates SUNFACTOR, SCUTTLE, HUNDRED REASONS went as far as to name them as their favourite British band in the NME, recently played them, on their XFM Hijack show and this release was highlighted as part of the NME review for their album as things that they were listening too!. Now with their own clearly defined sound, taking elements of the likes of CAVE IN, FIRESIDE, QUICKSAND, RADIOHEAD and even a jazz influence, THE COPPERPOTS are all set to explode.
Count Nosferatu Kommando : Ultraviolence Uber Alles CD on Kodiak
Here’s the new extreme sensation:kneel down and get ready to suffer with Count Nosferatu Kommando ! Perfect reflection of a f**ked-up modern world, where terrorism, civil wars are the norm, the CNK arises from its suburban vault with its debut album ULTRAVIOLENCE ÜBER ALLES. Stuffed with Clockwork Oranges, Jim Beam, 8 O’clock news, cynical nihilism and hellish good intentions, The CNK puts this world in the dock, without any possible way back. Mixing bombastic guitar riffs with ultraviolent Hellektro rhythmics, brutal vocals and martial atmospheres ULTRAVIOLENCE ÜBER ALLES is probably the ultimate warlike release to date.
Country Teasers : Science Hat Artistic Cube Moral Nosebleed Empire .CD on In The Red
The country teasers are best known for their stunning output on the crypt and fat possum labels. How a band of scots and londoners crazily influenced by the likes of the fall, devo, joy division, Bauhaus, hip hop and country and western music wound up recording for labels best known for American rootsy-down-home-style output is anyone’s guess. This album collects obscure singles, Demos, out takes, ands hoem recordings spanning the band’s 7 year career. Frontman ben waller Compiled 40 tracks for the limited 2lp set (1000 only) and 20 of those appear on the cd version.
Cowboy Junkies  - Best Of
One of the most influential bands of the past 15 years,Cowboy Junkies have come a long way since they released their first album on RCA in 1987. In that short time they've amassed an enormous cult following and  managed to maintain the integrity of their unique style and sound - a blend of folk, country and alternative rock  that is distinctly theirs. Digitally remastered, this fantastic 'Best Of' collection contains material drawn from four of the band's critically acclaimed albums - the famous 'Trinity Sessions' (recorded live with one microphone in an abandoned church), 'Caution Horses', 'Black Eyed Man', 'Pale Sun, Crescent Moon' - and also includes the UK only bonus track 'A Horse In The Country'.
Graham Coxon : Kiss Of Morning CD on Transcopic
The most complicated member of British music’s most complicated band, the coolest man in Camden, biker, proud new Dad, label boss, the best guitarist we have, secret jazzbo, all of these and then some… are GRAHAM COXON. As a member of Blur he has made some of the most important and successful records of the past decade and a half; records that propelled him to superstardom where he felt very uncomfortable indeed. That’s partly the reason why GRAHAM COXON also ploughs a different furrow, that of a highly individual, intense, humorous, passionate, beguiling solo artist, who is about to release his fourth and best solo album to date, ‘The Kiss Of Morning’.
Cracktorch : ....Is Not The Problem .CD on Lunasound
CRACKTORCH are from Boston MA in the U.S of A and this is their first album and they are already being chased by major labels in the USA. Like the SUPERSUCKERS, URGE OVERKILL, and THIN LIZZY before them, CRACKTORCH sparks an arena-ready flame. Like wet prophets on a motor city mission this will appeal to fans of the ever popular retro rock scene, bands like HELLACOPTERS, GLUECIFER etc. Bothers and sisters, consider the jams kicked the fuck out.
Crash : Young Boy I Can Help You Through Your Exams CD on Firefly Recordings
Not many bands form in prison but in April 2000, Upon Arild's and Aaron's release from the one year sentence they had been serving together for ALF-related activities, CRASH was formed! With their ex-bands including respected hardcore acts JR EWING and KIDS LIKE US the band hit the floor running. Their 10" showed a glorious mesh of early JIMMY EAT WORLD/HEY MERCEDES/GET UP KIDS style greatness. Deserving of a wider release Firefly Recordings put out a CD version combining the tracks from both the 10" and the 7".
Crime In Choir : Crime In Choir CD on Omnibus
Featuring founding members of At The Drive In, Hella, & The Hades Kick, Chrime in Choir are a crime of passion and practice. Analog synthesizers, Rhodes piano, moog bass and baritone guitar make for a mathematical mixture of adventurous neu-prog from San Francisco. Feauturing the incredibly technical, yet wildly free-form drumming style of Zach Hill (Hella) anchored by smooth, calculated guitar and sythesizer melodies. Raising eyebrows after a handfull of shows with the likes of The Appleseed Cast, Mates Of State, Mice Parade, and Her Space Holiday, Crime In Choir are poised turn the indie rock world on it’s ears.... post rock /tortoise/matmos fans would like.
Crispy Ambulance : Fin CD on LTM
Extended 70 minute CD from the cult Manchester post punk band recorded between 1981 and 1982, around the time of the release of their classic Factory album 'The Plateau Phase'. Features 12 mixing desk recorded live tracks, including a superb version of Throbbing Gristle's 'United' and tracks previously unavailable in any form, plus 4 studio recordings made up of the Factory Benelux single 'Black Death' and their debut 'From the Cradle to the Grave'.16 digitally remastered tracks in total. Complete with band history and previously unpublished photos and graphics. 'Here was a band that had a vision all of its own without any help from the rest of the pack'. NME
Crosstide : Seventeen Nautical Miles CD on Ignition
CROSSTIDE’S new full length is definitely for Fans of SUNNY DAY REAL ESTATE, MINERAL, TEXAS IS THE REASON, SENSEFIELD, ELLIOTT and JIMMY EAT WORLD but also thowing in some more sombre lyrical moments and prove the diversity of the band, they can rock out but they can write the slow ones too! With the musicianship throughout the band, it is more than fair to say these guys are likely to receive references to RADIOHEAD, MUSE and SMASHING PUMPKINS
Cuff The Duke : Life Stories for Minimum Wage CD on Three Gut
Three Gut Records has continued with its uncanny ability of signing some of the best, most promising bands that Southwestern Ontario has to offer. With Cuff the Duke’s new album, the old south’s rebellious country style has been reinvented in Oshawa, Ontario (of all places) by a group of young, talented troubadours. They bring enough of their own take on the genre to not sound like a complete rip-off of (insert any classic country artist here). These ten tracks of heartbreak and loss will have you wiping tears from your eyes and looking for a bottle of Jack Daniels to help ease the pain of your own shitty life.
John Cunningham : Happy-Go-Unlucky CD on Parasol
This one comes to us on the recommendation of former scud mountain boy and current pernice brother, joe pernice.the brighton artist is a complete unknown both here and in the uk but not so in france, where the influential magazine les inrocktuptibles has called him england's most neglected singer songwriter. "homeless house" is the work of a man whose time in the spotlight might well be approaching. With an ostensibly delicate voice, cunningham's vocals are most reminiscent of robert wyatt and sean o'hagan of the high llamas. Cunningham's lyrical ability is not dissimilar to that of elliott smith. If only to give you a recommendation of its quality, fans of pernice, wyatt, the beatles, nick drake, o'hagan and smith will fall in love with this
Cursor Miner : Explosive Piece Of Mind (CD) on Lo Recordings
Cursor Miner's debut album Explosive Piece Of Mind is a proper electronic pop album with harmonies, razor sharp lyrics, songs, hooks and all those things you thought the laptop generation had left behind. And twisted, like if Lewis Carroll tale wrote lyrics for Gary Numan or Squarepusher
Curveside : Save Yourself CD on Fuzzbox
Curveside were formed because ash, bernie, matt and greg grew up in the late eighties/early nineties when the guitar ruled the world, grunge was on the up and converse was the uniform for the new generation. Curveside want to bring back the converse. Save yourself, the bands debut release, was recorded by richard jackson who has previously produced material for the super furry animals, big leaves and the sixty foot dolls. Curveside have begun to make an impact on the welsh scene due to supporting the likes of the manic street preachers and mclusky. The curveside sound is all about impact. It’s like an unholy alliance of nirvana and p.o.d.
D+ : Mistake CD on K Records / Know Yr Own
d+ is the hometown study group formed by bret lunsford (beat happening), phil elvrum (the microphones, old time relijun) and karl blau (captain fathom) now in its sixth year. Mistake is the third d+ album, following the self-titled 1997 debut and 1998¹s dandelion seeds, both released on k records. Mistake furthers the collaborative process within the band: elvrum¹s loving insistence on textural exploration; the mad science of blau¹s beautiful pop wisecracks; the clunky stridence of lunsford¹s refusal to matriculate from elementary musicianship. One of those elemental ingredients in the k stew is the windy kelp riptide flowing between northwest islands.
Daedelus : Invention.CD on Plug Research
Daedelus produces sonic patchworks from a studio deep within Santa Monica, California. Inspired by Hollywood soundtracks of the 1930s and 1940s alongside an ear for 70s grooves, Daedelus ventures into the LA afterdark, its subterranean mysteries worked into a graceful suite of mellifluous instrumental music with carefully administered hip-hop breaks and the odd lyrical attack to spice things up. Invention combines multiple instruments, including non-traditional ones such as computer printers, toy pianos, and the techno harp known as the Omnichord. Daedelus invites local MC talents Busdriver and Sach to flow over the versions of 'Quiet Now' and 'Pursed Lips Reply'
Dances with wolves : South East Dc CD on baltimore 2012
after close to a decade of songwriting and music making, adrian finch releases his first official album under the moniker of dances with wolves. Adrian has been displaying his instrumental prowess for years in such bands as elf power, the summer hymns, and the masters of the hemisphere, playing everything from guitar and keyboards to the violin and the saxophone. In 2000 adrian released a song on kindercore records' 50th release under the band name the phones. With the name changed to dances with wolves, adrian recorded his first album of synth-pop that should appeal to fans of east river pipe and the magnetic fields. At times joyful and upbeat, at others bitter or disconsolate, a certain dejected melancholy runs through most of the record, occasionally contrasting the soothing music with tuneful despondence. The mild-mannered, charming gloom of "south east" reveals adrian finch to be not just musically proficient, but disarmingly modest and honest in his lyric-writi
Dat Politics : Plugs Plus CD on Chicks On Speed
Brand new album from French laptop quartet featuring contributions from a host of electronica stars such as KID 606, MATMOS, BLECTUM FROM BLECHDOM, LESSER and FELIX CUBIN. Dat Politics have recorded for such quality electronica labels as MILLE PLATEAUX, FAT CAT, TIGERBEAT 6. Their cheap laptops generate epileptic micro-rhythms escorted by child-like acid melodies and distorted vocals.Futuristic electronic pop at its finest. The CD is designed by CHICKS ON SPEED in cooperation with DAT POLITICS
Dempsey : Dempsey (CD). on Output
WITH A NOD TO 'SCREAMADELICA' , BECK and THE ROLLING STONES, and with ONE SIDE OF THE ALBUM RECORDED BY TREVOR 'PLAYGROUP' JACKSON and THE OTHER BY KIERAN 'FOURTET/FRIDGE' HEBDEN, it comes as no surprise that the SUNDAY TIMES said.... "SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS - THE SOUNDTRACK ALBUM OF SUMMER 2002 IS HERE" *Californian born American native Geoff McIntire aka Dempsey finally releases his debut album. The album is split over two cds, the 'Sunrise Side' recorded with KIERAN HEBDEN (FOUR TET/FRIDGE) and the 'Sunset Side' recorded by TREVOR 'PLAYGROUP' JACKSON. Dempsey delivers a skilled songwriter and unique personality, premiered over tripped up folk, acid loops, smacked out guitar riffs and melancholic strings.The album also features FRIDGE members Sam Jeffers on drums and Adam Ilhan on bass. Dempsey's first offering was the mega limited , sold out 7" 'ODB On The Run': "A RAW MIX OF FRANTIC FOLK, DISTORTED HIP HOP LOOPS AND DISCORDANT GUITARS" (Jockey Slut) "FAT BLUES FOR THOSE BOULEVARD DRIVES" (The Face) "EELS, WITH BLUESY NOODLING, IS THE DISH OF THE DAY" (NME)
Destroyer : This Night CD on Merge
Vancouver’s Dan Bejar — the central figure in all things Destroyer — is the reigning king of intelligent non-dance music. Over the past seven years, Destroyer have released a string of albums that combine fascinating (and copious) lyrics and Bejar’s deadpan voice with unusual song structures that still manage to fit under the catch all pop umbrella. This Night is no exception. The 15 songs here paint vivid, and sometimes absurd, pictures. Beautiful, complex and dark (if not downright depressing), This Night is an album to get lost in on those nights when there’s nothing better to do than spend the night alone with your headphones.
Digger : Keystone CD on Hopless
With an influx of screamo / emo pop punk at the drive in rip off bands and disposable retro garage Schlock polluting the independent music scene, we can rely on digger to stick to their punk meets Rock and roll roots. They delvier an infectious power pop punk that is overlayed with some beach Boys styled harmonies!! This is a harder edged green day sound yet with more pop sensibilities. The Last album "monte carlo" sold more than 500 copies in the uk.
Dillinger Four : Situationist Comedy .CD on Fat Wreck Chords
DILLENGER FOUR are truly a musical force to be reckoned with! Present day finds the band releasing their third full-length “Situationist Comedy”, on Fat Wreck Chords, who’s reputation for discovering great new punk bands goes unsurpassed. It’s said, when the critics here this album they’ll wonder how the mid-western foursome harnessed so much fury, and made it into something people can dance to. With tons of shows and a successful tour of Japan with GREEN DAY, DILLINGER FOUR are considered the masters of adding harmony to musical mayhem.
Diorama : Art Of Creating Confusing Spirits CD on Accession
Follow up to the successful "Her Liquid Arms". 'The Art Of Creating Confusing Spirits" has skillfully arranged electronic sequences, atmospherics & dense keyboard sounds. DIORAMA's new album is complex, catchy and melancholic
Dissent : Bleeding Together Cd on Wide Hive
Considering the title is Bleeding Together, I thought this was another indie death metal album. I put the headphones on expecting sanguine guitar riffs and maggot-infested lyrics. But I was wrong. The bleeding refers to the different styles of music that bleed together in the form of Dissent, a San Francisco art-music outfit. With their second release, Dissent continue to create their own genre that is unique and experimental. It’s a coagulation of down-tempo, Morcheeba, classical Indian music, bossa nova and DJ Shadow. The song "Soul Cycling" features synthesizers, violins, congas, and guitars. "Sound Painting" mixes timbales and turntables. There’s everything here. Well, everything other than death metal.
Distorted Reality : Fine Line Between Love And Hate CD on Accession
Debut album from Industrial pop band DISTORTED REALITY. This innovative band is made up of American lead singer Martha Arce (also lead singer for Deep Red) and keyboardist Christian Kobusch from Germany. Their music contains a broad range of style, passion and ingenuity. Combining classical and electronic instruments, the album ranges from commanding and tension filled soundtrack-like compositions to powerful and energetic dance tracks. Produce by BRUNO KRAMM(Propaganda - Dr. Mabuse, P Machinery)
DJ Krush : Shinsou CD on Sony
Japanese turntablist DJ Drush has been successfully merging the parallel worlds of drum 'n' bass and hip-hop for the past decade. Shinsou (having a double meaning in Japanese of both "depth" and "truth") is Krush's seventh album, continuing along the path of his earlier records, Milight, Kakusei and Zen. These albums featured dense, jarring musical arrangements and the cream of the crop of cool, critically acclaimed hip-hop auteurs. On Shinsou, DJ Krush procures the services of veteran musical collective Anticon, new hip-hop kids on the block Anti-Pop Consortium and little-known Japanese rapper, Inden. Krush also expands his palette to include reggae and dub with the assistance of Sly and Robbie on "The Lost Voice" and Abijah on "What About Tomorrow."
DJ Downfall : Curse CD on Where Its At Is Where
After two storming singles on wiaiwya (the first "song for Kelly le Brock" narrowly missing out on single of the week in melody maker (pipped to the post by the Beta Band)), two TV programs for Channel 4 ("the Trip" and "the Shape of things that hum"), two blinding singles on xl subsidiary rex (blanket evening session airplay), and a slew of ultra hip remixes, dj has come up with his debut long player "the curse" (out imminently on the ubiquitous wiaiwya records... can they do NOTHING wrong?) 2 tracks from the album have already been included in documentaries to be shown on Channel 4 this autumn, with a further 2 being mooted for other programmes... the album includes remixes of two of the dj's previous singles... dj has played near legendary sets at skool disco, the scala, etc... dj used to drum for Marine Research, play guitar for Dweeb, and currently plays bass for the Tender Trap...
DJ Vadim : U.S.S.R.: The Art Of Listening CD on Ninja Tune
Russian-born DJ Vadim brings an element of resourcefulness to his beats. His early releases demonstrated his penchant for finding rhythms within static and noise. His U.S.S.R. series (including this, The Art of Listening) has him working with more traditional samples, although he still conjures minimalist beats from a variety of sources. Like Japan's DJ Krush, Vadim has an affinity for hip-hop, employing a full itinerary of MCs to front his beats and leaving little doubt he could be an uber-producer like Timbaland. Given the flexible joints he lays under Gift of Gab, Yarah Bravo and the Phi-Life Cypher crew, he may, one day, get that chance. In the meantime, any hip-hop head should definitely seek out this disc.
Doa : Win The Battle CD on Empty
With the release of their tenth studio album, DOA tap into their early roots in a ferocious display of punk and rock. They combine their best qualities of humour, sarcasm, chainsaws, defiance and politics. For their first new album in four years, JOEY SHITHEAD and bassist RANDY RAMPAGE team up with "THE GREAT BALDINI" on drums to create Rockin' Musical Mayhem. DOA hits you hard: from their new rallying cry "Just Say No To The WTO" to the anti militarist "Warmonger", to the driving rhythms of "Dead Men Tell No Tales" and "To Hell N' Back" to the complete inreverence of "Mexican Holiday", "Beer Liberation Army" and ZZ Top's "La Grange" to the metal piss-up party of "Curbstomp The Devil". DOA, Canada's legendary punk pioneers who pushed the term "Hardcore" into the common vernacular have influenced a generation. Everyone from Green Day to The Offspring & Henry Rollins to Sonic Youth & The Dead Kennedies to Rancid and David Grohl (Foo Fighters/Nirvana).
Dropsonic : Belle. CD on 54 40 Or Fight.
Guess it's cool now to like Zeppelin, the Stones, AC/DC and Sabbath in the indierock world, but this trio does so sans irony, eschewing retro-glam. Atlanta's Dropsonic has distilled the impurities from the bloated genre to craft a fiery follow-up to their amazing 2001 full-length, The Big Nothing (Moodswing Records). It's imperative at this point to mention it's not derivative, only inspired. And yes, it rocks. RIYL: Shellac, AC/DC, Rye Coalition, Shiner
Econoline : music is stupid CD on seriously groovy
Every once in a while comes a momentous discovery. Be it gravity, or the Valley of the Kings, it’s usually something that’s been there a good while until some lucky beggar unearths it and calls it their own. Econoline are coming close to the surface. Ladies and gentlemen, it’s time to start digging. Almost certainly, you’ll want a piece of this. Oh yes; just like the apple that gave Isaac Newton his finest hour, ‘Music Is Stupid’ hits you straight in the face, but harder. It’s no exaggeration to say that discovering the new LP from Econoline gives us a glimpse into what old Isaac must have felt that day. This, in no uncertain terms, is big news.
Bewilderingly, this is the debut album from the London-based four-piece. Keep that fact in mind, as it will become more bizarre with every track. For a first record, it’s astonishingly accomplished, the idea of mediocre material banished far from thought. Instead, what we’re gifted is just under forty minutes of unrefined, noisy, tender genius.
Opener ‘The C and the G’ sums up the group perfectly; two heart-warming minutes of gorgeous, twinkling guitars, suddenly cut into by Ian Scanlon’s fragile but perfectly suited vocals that signal the arrival of an intense but oddly melodic racket… After something quite so luscious, how could you not want more?
Recently undergoing tours with the likes of The Dismemberment Plan and Engine Down was obviously a journey that rubbed off musically on the group. They borrow Engine Down’s intensity and display brilliant examples of punk the way the early ‘Plan used to do it, especially on excellent forthcoming single ‘I’m Plagued’. Thankfully though, it never once feels as if you’re listening to people simply trying to imitate idols: this is something fresh, something new. It has a sense of humour, too – the fantastic ‘Ounces and Ounces of Solid Goodness’ not only provides the album with a high point, but features a title that pretty much reviews itself.
Its brilliance partly lies in its combined ability to sometimes grate at the soul with guitars that sound like they’re quickly rusting away (as on ‘Full Tar’), whilst at other moments cleverly employing barely audible lyrics and sparse instrumentation to create something as emotionally draining as ‘Missing From Pictures’, which proves all on its own that lush string-arrangements and polished production are by no means a requirement for assembling graceful, heartfelt music.
Conclusively, few albums could prove their own titles wrong as convincingly as ‘Music Is Stupid’ does. It very nearly has everything. You could fall asleep to it, scream your lungs out to it, hell, you could probably dance to it if you really wanted to, although the shapes you’d have to throw to get down to this album would likely conjure up all kinds of ungodly demons that are possibly best left where they are. Even saving the best ‘til last, stunning closer ‘Buddy Bradley’ is possibly one of the finest demented, fizzing, shouting beasts of a song you will ever hear. It’s a fitting end to a near-masterpiece.
Thankfully, Econoline have throughout resisted what must have been a temptation to jump on a passing ‘emo’ bandwagon, in preference of opting to drive one themselves. Stand at the side of the road and beg for a lift.
EDIE : Shades CD. on EDIE
Unique modern rock with lyrical density, hypnotic melodies, drama, and intelligence. PJ Harvey meets Jeff Buckley meets Bjork.
Elf Power : Nothing Is Going To Happen CD on Orange Twin
Nothing's going to happen, elf power's 6th album is an album of 10 cover songs including songs originally written and recorded by roky erickson, husker du, bad brains, buszzcocks, chris knox, the misfits, gary numan's tubeway army, and the frogs. Also included on the cd is the come on ep, originally released in 1998 as a limited edition tour-only ep of 1,000 copies. It features 6 more songs, covers of t.rex, sonic youth, jesus and mary chain, robyn hitchcock, billy childish, and the flaming lips. This album represents elf power at their full tilt rocking best and is considered by the band to be a tribute to some of their favorite artists and songs, elf power began in 1994 in athens, ga and have toured the u.s., europe, and japan many times with groups like wilco, r.e.m., guided by voices, j. Mascis, olivia tremor control, and neutral milk hotel.
Eludea : Siren CD on Kordula
With the release of their acclaimed EP 'Phona' for Bristol's now infamous Cup of Tea Records, ELUDEA (Roger Mills, Marc Day and Hannah Bristow) established a unique sound that set them well apart from usual dub beat crossovers. The originality of that sound melds Hannah's velvet vocals to backdrop of twisted samples, strict crisp beats, rich bass, spikey guitar and trumpet. They concentrate on well crafted, memorable songs that have an intensity to make the hair on the back of your neck stand on end. The trio have recently teamed up with X F Word Beatmeister Dan Clibery and DJ / Bassist Mr Ben, and locking themselves in the studio have recorded 11 blistering tracks for their debut album 'SIREN'. The album showcases tracks written over the past two years, which includes collaborations with Radiohead strings supremo Jon Matthius, DJ Alpha Proxima [Breakbeat Culture] and Paul Wigens [Grand Drive / Blue Aeroplanes]. Eludea's dynamic live performances are also becoming legendary with recent shows drawing larger & larger audiences, mesmerized by the electric atmosphere the band creates.
Empyrium : Weiland CD on Prophecy
The history of Empyrium is also the history of Prophecy Productions. Empyrium´s debut "A Wintersunset", saw the light of day in 1996 and was the reason for founding Prophecy Productions. It featured deep melancholic dreamy music, these attributes were taken to even higher levels with the second release "Songs of Moors and Misty Fields". It delivered otherworldy music enchanted by the beauty of nature.... EMPYRIUM deliver truly epic albums. "Weiland", their barnde new release is dark and progressive & features classical instruments like violin, piano and acoustic guitar
End On End : Why Evolve When We Can Go Sideways CD on Substandard
Politically-charged hardcore and post-hardcore from LA, END ON END combines a sense of urgency, passion, and activism with a heartfelt love of music and a desire for honesty and integrity in all their actions. Why Evolve When We Can Go Sideways? marks the second full-length, and highlights the changes that the band has gone through since their debut full-length and split full-length releases on This Guy Records. Moving into heavier, screamier and altogether more complex terrain, yet retaining their base in the melodic sound of '80s and early '90s hardcore, the band has taken their sound to a whole new level, compared in the past to bands like STILL LIFE, RITES OFF SPRING, ENDPOINT and early GRADE.
Endstand : Fire Inside .CD on Combat Rock Industries
Finland’s endstand are widely recognized as one of the premier leaders of the bludgeoning scandanavian punk rock scene – leading the way alongside fellow countrymen manifesto jukebox and wasted, endstand’s new album “fire inside” is uncompromising punk rock. The band tour the uk shortly, as part of a 3 month european tour. “fire inside” is their third album , brought to you by combat rock industry (home of manifesto jukebox and wasted) – yet more scandanavian sonic uncompromising punk blasts!
Enon : High Society (CD). on Touch and Go
FEATURING MEMBERS OF BLONDE REDHEAD, THE LAPSE AND BRAINIAC, 'High Society' is ONE OF TOUCH & GO'S STRONGEST ROCK RELEASES FOR YEARS! K K K K K R E VI E W I N K E R R A N G ! ! "AS AN ALBUM 'HIGH SOCIETY' HAS EVERYTHING; IT ROCKS, IT'S POPPY, IT'S ABRASIVE AND IT'S CHALLENGING. IN SHORT, IT'S F**KING BRILLIANT!!!!!". Enon is NOT your average rock and roll band! This band forges some traditional rock vocabulary together with samples, electronic creations and an "anything goes" attitude.It's a celebration of technology, for certain, but not at the expense of actual songs.The songs are ROCKING and POPPY and DOWNRIGHT CATCHY!! *John Schmersal cut his teeth in Brainiac, the Dayton Ohio freakoutfit. After their sad demise, John then moved to New York City. He put out a few singles on various labels under the name Enon and a record under the mysterious name John Stuart Mill. Enon was still, at this time, basically a solo project, Now joined by Toko Yasuda (Blonde Redhead/The Lapse) and Matt Schulz (Let's Crash), Enon is a bright spot in the current state of rock and roll. Originally using John's former band Brainiac as a jumping off point, Enon have since forged their own unique sound of surprisingly melodic songs and pure rockers. The addition of Toko on vocals and songwriting opens up an entire new world of pop frequencies. For Fans Of: Pavement, Devo, Sonic Youth, Blonde Redhead,The Lapse
Entre Rios : Idioma Suave CD on Elefant
This three-piece from Buenos Aires, Argentina, present a gentle sound postcard, a collection of placid, delicate songs; music to dream to with your eyes wide open. Elefant released "Litoral", a seven inch on their legendary Singles Club in 2001. This brought the music of ENTRE RÍOS to many new audiences; among them BBC Radio One DJ John Peel, who played the record several times. 'Idioma Suave' is their debut album, thirteen songs influenced in part by Angelo Badalamenti, Phil Spector & Brian Eno (all experts in the art of creating enigmatic atmospheres). Fabulous electronic sound scapes shored up by ethereal vocals make this a very fine example of avant garde pop
Enya  : Only Time Collection: 4cd Box
Enya marks the latest stage in a highly successful career with the release of this stunning retrospective box set. 'Only Time - The Collection' brings together tracks from the 1986 album 'The Celts' right up to the Oscar-nominated song 'May It Be', which was written and recorded last year for 'Lord Of The Rings - The Fellowship Of The Ring' at the personal request of director Peter Jackson. Included on 'Only Time' are all of Enya's most loved songs, including hitsingles such as 'Orinoco Flow', 'Book Of Days', 'Caribbean Blue', 'Anywhere Is' and 'Only Time'. In addition, the box set also features a number of tracks that have never been previously featured on an Enya album before. These are 'Eclipse', 'Isobella', 'Song Of The Sandman (Lullaby)', 'Willows On The Water', 'May It Be' and 'Oiche Chiun (Silent Night)'. Also included on the enhanced CD4 is video footage of 'Oiche Chiun (Silent Night)', which was first broadcast on the BBC in December 1996, plus a 48-page booklet which features liner notes by lyricist Roma Ryan, a discography and archival photos.
Epic 45 : Reckless Engineers CD on Where Are My Records
Epic45 was formed in 1995 by ben holton, rob glover and mark oldfield.after developing an interest with the music that was coming out of glasgow and chicago, they started recording and playing gigs around 1998 with various friends helping out live and in the studio. Still in their early 20's they blend together influences ranging from the mellow ambience of bands such as bark psychosis and labradford to the sonic experiments of bands like godspeed you black emperor, slint and hood, but end up with a sound uniquely their own. Epic45 have released 2 eps(bearos), 3 split singles, appeared on 2 compilation albums,numerous radio one airplay from both steve lamacq and john peel, plus an appearance on the channel 4's,the big breakfast.epic45 have played live with the likes of muse, do make say think, cay, rothko and the pattern.
Erase Errata : Other Animals CD on Tsk!tsk!
The four girls that make up San Francisco's Erase Errata got together in late 1999. After writing ten songs in half an hour, the chemistry was clear. Emerging was a shaky shared vision, a stumbled-upon equation of organised chaos - with a beat. Composing upon a lifetime of influences, Erase Errata twisted those influences into an end result. Think of ESG, CAPT. BEEFHEART and SLEATER KINNEY you may get some idea… Despite being dubbed 'no-wave' almost immediately, Erase Errata make music both angular and yet, beautiful - their songs are propelled forward on choppy waves of jerky rhythms and guitar lines that wrap their way around you brain like a copper wire. Erase Errata have opened for such indie veterans as The Fall and Le Tigre (check the back cover of Feminist Sweepstakes to see Le Tigre's approval). Sonic Youth chose them to play at All Tomorrow's Parties 2002 in LA, and they will be supporting Sonic Youth on their US tour in August this year. Their debut album, 'Other Animals' has taken the US by storm with rave reviews in music publications across the country, and proclaimed by many (including Thurston Moore) as album of the year! The European version has been remastered for tsk! tsk! records by Weasel Walter of the Flying Luttenbachers. FOR FANS OF: ESG, LE TIGRE, SLEATER KINNEY, SONIC YOUTH
Escargo : Si Vous Aimes L'amour CD on 555
Debut full length solo cd release from jayme guokas of the skywriters, rabbit in red, the snow fairies, men in fur, and the last wave. With a little help from melissa snow fairy on backing vocals jayme has created a fantastical and fun-filled world of pop through the course of these songs, bringing to mind some of the best moments from the vaselines and the pastels. Casio keyboards, moogs, drum machines, live drums, and lots of layers of clean and fuzzed up guitars!
Ether Net : More Strange Bruises CD on Symbiotic/requisite
'More Strange Bruises', the third full-length from Ether Net, showcases this three-piece at its purest; majestic, shapeshifting rock with dynamic melodies, evocative lyrics, and wide-screen arrangements. Each distinct song informs the next, while retaining the band’s unique DNA, largely based around the intimate vocals. "This mighty trio has a sound that falls somewhere between crashing American indie pop/rock and the more atmospherically inclined bands from across the pond." - The Big Takeover "Ether Net’s music is like a brawl in an absinthe bar; transcendent, otherworldly, mysterious, yet able to throw the punches and draw the blood that reminds you you're alive." - Alternative Press Recommended for fans of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Dandy Warhols, My Vitriol
Peven Everett : Studio Confessions CD on Pias
Genuine Recordings introduce you to new signing, Peven Everett whose album was signed in the face of stiff competition from American label ABB, (label who discovered Dilated Peoples).) His debut album Studio Confessions is set to establish him firmly in the musical premier league. Studio Confessions is an intimate look at life, love and his passion for music. His sound is sublime, organic, melodic, and of course, full of soul - a fusion of African and Latin rhythms, hip hop, funk, and a touch of jazz. Having performed with jazz greats at spots like Blue Note, Sweet Basil and Smalls in NYC and Chicago and went on the road with Wynton and Branford Marsalis (Buckshot LeFonque). He also started recording deep house records with collaborative efforts on timeless cuts like ‘Gabriel’ and ‘Watch Them Come’. It was ‘Gabriel’ which was to have an electrifying effect on the UK music scene, becoming one of the key records that helped inspire the nascent UK garage scene. What makes it all the more impressive is that Studio Confessions is all Peven. A producer, writer, vocalist, performer and multi-instrumentalist, Peven plays 11 instruments including the guitar, keys, drums, bass, trombone, flute, saxophone as well as being a renowned trumpeter. From the bongo driven rhythms of ‘One More Time’ and the bass bump of ‘Testing Me’ to the spacious grooves and laid back rap of ‘They So Cold’ this is a rough edged, modern soul album that provides a much needed antidote to the digital gloss of modern soul and r’n’b
Everything But The Girl (Ebtg)  : Like The Deserts Miss The Rain: Best Of
"Every greatest hits collection seems the same: over-familiar tunes reheated and assembled in the boardroom and generally thrown at the public on a cold plate, so we thought we'd try something different", says Tracey Thorn of Everything But The Girl about their new retrospective album. "If there was going to be a retrospective we wanted it to be a personal view. We wanted to look back on some of the stuff we've been proudest of over the past twenty years. Some of them happen to be famous hits, some are obscure B-sides. It's just our take on things, and we hope it throws a fresh light on these songs and what they mean".

'Like The Deserts Miss The Rain' is an alternative best of collection: sixteen tracks over seventy minutes culled from twenty years, selected and compiled by Ben Watt and Tracey Thorn themselves. The choices range from EBTG's breakthrough jazz-inflected hit of 1984, 'Each And Every One', through rare B-sides like Tracey's beautiful 'A Piece Of My Mind' to cornerstone album tracks such as the million-selling 'Amplified Heart's opener 'Rollercoaster' and big hitters like 1995's US #1, 'Missing'. There are limited edition remixes and Tracey singing in Portuguese!

"It is not trying to be comprehensive, it is not even trying to represent every album we have ever released", says Ben. "In each case it is simply a track we look back on and think, yes, that'' what we meant, and it still seems to have resonance. We've also drawn a non-chronological line from the past through to the present. It is an attempt to offer a compass and a map for our journey through so many different styles and genres over the years. Hence the latin sounds of the early eighties 'Each And Every One' rub shoulders with the futuristic drum 'n' bass bossa nova of the mid-nineties 'Corcovado' and Chicane's rerubof 'Before Today'. The still-life beauty and sexual politics of 1984's 'Mine' slide moodily into Tracey's seminal woman's eye view Massive Attack collaboration, 'Protection', whilst 1996's Top 10 hit, 'Wrong', is presented here in its Y2K bootleg incarnation, the floor-rocking 'Tracey In My Room".
Exile Inside : Exile Inside CD on Exilophone
EXILE INSIDE is the latest vehicle for the sweeping musical vision of JAKE SHILLINGFORD, founder of Orchestral Pop pioneers MY LIFE STORY, joined here by co-writer and arranger Aaron Cahill. When MLS split in December 2000, after 3 successful albums & 6 top 40 singles, Jake and band orchestrator Aaron immediately joined forces to concentrate more on the synth-pop they grew up on and loved as youngsters. Forgoing the major label involvement from his previous experience, and avoiding all the pitfalls associated, Jake raised the money for the recordings from his own website, offering his fans the chance to actively participate in the making of his new music.
Fatso Jetson : Cruel And Delicious CD on Rekords
Fatso Jetson was formed in Palm Desert, CA, in 1994 and are often credited as the fathers of the desert strain of stoner rock made most famous by their slightly younger neighbours Kyuss and Queens of the Stone Age. The reason for the group's immense stoner credibility is that key members of the group played in seminal local "desert" bands Across the River, Englenook, Yawning Man, and the Sort of Quartet: each of them being groups that the high school aged Kyuss members would see perform at parties. While musically similar to some of their stoner brethren, Fatso Jetson incorporate a broader variety of musical influences that includes punk and surf. This is not to say that the band isn't capable of dishing out supremely heavy riffs and Black Sabbath-influenced guitar soloing. Certainly grounded in dense hard rock, Fatso Jetson experiment with many musical textures, instrumental epics, and bizarre lyrics to create a punky art rock all their own.
Feeder  : Comfort In Sound
At the very end of 2001, Grant Nicholas confessed that despite the breakthrough success of 'Echo Park', he'd already written ten songs he considered his best ever. The result? - 'Comfort In Sound'. The culmination of six months studio productivity - Grant and bassist Taka Hirose choosing to work with Gil Norton (Pixies, Foo Fighters) for the second consecutive album, whilst old friend Mark Richardson (ex-Skunk Anansie) filled in on drums after the tragic death of original drummer Jon Lee - 'Comfort' takes in everything from bruising sleaze-rock ('Helium', 'Godzilla'), to gentle electronica ('Child In You') and glorious string-laden epics ('Forget About Tomorrow'). Regardless of the year's tragic events, if ever there was a place where Feeder could be said to be the most at home it would be bathed in waves of glorious guitar noise and mercurial melody lines. Includes the single 'Come Back Around'.
"We've come too far, we've got too many fans out there, and there's too many people that have really stuck by us over the years, it just seems tragic to give up now. We're a good band, but we've got a lot more left in us before we call it a day"- Grant Nicholas
Figgs : Slow Charm CD on Hearbox
The year 2002 marks a milestone for the Figgs. Not only does it mark the 15th year the three founding members have been playing together, this CD “Slow Charm” marks the bands 10th release. That is of course if you exclude the bands 12 singles. Not bad for a group of guys whose eldest member just turned 30. Despite major label woes throughout the mid part of their career, the Figgs' winning power pop and never-say-die modus operandi have kept the group alive and kicking. The Figgs uphold their reputation here, conjuring up a reliable assortment of contagiously punchy song craft akin to their 2000 long-player "Sucking in Stereo." Look for a bit more ntrospection and moodiness on a few numbers though. "Slow Charm” is without question another step forward for this prolific trio. “one of America's best-kept rock'n'roll secrets." Billboard Magazine,
Filthy Jim : Whiskey And Porn CD on Tour Horse
Sleaze-rockers Filthy Jim's debut album Whiskey and Porn is a brutal, 26-minute homage to all the bad things that feel so great about fast, energetic rock n' roll. All 12 tracks come and go with the urgency of a suckerpunch, seething with the piss and vinegar of the Stooges, the depraved grit of the Melvins, and just a touch of Motley Crue's sing-a-long scum. .. best enjoyed "at a loud volume, drunk," says bassist Troy Richardson. ...
First Grade Crush : Our Time Down Here CD on Jum Up
SKA PUNK : FIRST GRADE CRUSH's music is powerful, energetic, diversely-influenced, and dark. Based in punk - incorporating bits of emo-core and metal - driven by bright horn lines and mind-bending theremin. The band has been compared to Dillinger Four, Rocket From The Crypt, Fishbone, Promise Ring, Bad Religion, Saves The Day, and Less Than Jake - but truly the band sounds only like themselves. Amidst the sonic chaos, sing-along choruses, anti-establishment chants, and adolescent emotion - First Grade Crush create a suprisingly mature record, with sharp, biting lyrics and and in-your-face sarcasm.
Flaming Stars : Sunset And Void CD on Vinyl Japan
From the after-dark sophistication of the last album “A Walk on the Wired Side” THE FLAMING STARS” have returned to deep-down sleaze’n’roll which is their trademark. This album represents the next chapter in the STARS career, so turn the lights down low, take a swig of Jack Daniels from the bottle, sit back and enjoy.
Fly : Put The Needle Down .. CD on Elefant
Featuring three ex FELT members. Instrumental music with shades of Kraut rock. NME " It takes three former members of 80's legends FELT to revisit the kind of retro-futurism where jet travel and autobahns were the stuff of wild possibilty....'Put the needle down & fly" is chrome silver Eurotronica evoking household robots, Kraftwerk and synthesizers the size of a family car"
Fog And Ocean : Fog And Ocean CD on 555
Debut full length release from this international pop supergroup with members from three different continents! It was an opportune moment that brought together members of the cat's miaow, huon, boyracer,sleepy township, steward, hydroplane, rabbit in red, architechture in helsinki, and jen turrell in the same place and the same time to record this album. Back to early 80's with analogue synths and 808 beats and sweet girl vocal. Highly melodic- retro and refreshing.
Fontanelle : Style Drift CD on Kranky
Portland , Oregon's Fontanelle take drums , keyboards and guitars , tightens up the interplay and weaves taut patterns that touch on the liquidity of FUSION JAZZ and the crystalline angles of IDM electronics. A huge step forward from their debut album, a unique mix of instrumental and computer aided improvisation. File next to : TORTOISE/FLY PAN AM.
Fosca : Diary Of An Antibody. CD on Shinkansen
2nd album from London based 4 piece Fosca led by Dickon Edwards (ex Shelley (Sarah Records), Spearmint and Orlando). 10 tracks of punchy guitar pop and piano led ballads described indie by one critic as Pulp meets The Shangri-La's
Foxy : Stay Foxy, Por Vida .CD on Loud Energy
FOXY is made up of ex-members of 4GASM and have a strong SOCIAL DISTORTION connection with John Maurer playing on their first recording and also produced this album. They take their influences from such 70’s punk bands as THE CLASH, BLONDIE and THE RAMONES while still giving a nod to big brother band SOCIAL DISTORTION. They’ve toured the UK 3 times now and have built up a good following.
Free Loan : Ever Been To Mexico CD on Shelflife
Mini album of six tracks from Stockholm's Free Loan Investments - full of jangly guitars, fizzing distortion and blazing fast melodies - all grounded by Amanda's vocals. With a nod towards UK guitar pop (Talulah Gosh/Shop Assistants) and 80s post-punk (Au Pairs/Dolly Mixture), FLI's songs have just the right amount of classic style and sensibility, poppy melodies and thrashing guitars.
Freezepop : Freeezepop Forever CD on Elefant
This female-fronted three piece from Boston, USA bring back to life the best eighties techno-pop with fresh air, smashing good tunes and a very cool Image… Thirteen tracks and two videos in a single CD. Formed in 1999 in Boston, MA, and as legend has it they decided to form a synth pop band because the icy cool of the synthesizer was the perfect antidote to that summer's excruciating heat. The band consists of vocalist Liz Enthusiasm, programmer he Duke of Candied Apples, and keyboardist the Other Sean T. Drinkwater, also of Lifestyle. While the band has shied away from their '80s retro image in interviews, their sound and '80s pop culture references (they have a song titled "Tracey Gold") are one of the reasons they have connected so well with the national synth pop scene. Freezepop, who play all of their music on a Yamaha QY-70 battery powered sequencer, borrow both from the stylized new wave synth pop of the early '80s and the amateurish side of late '90s punk-pop acts like Bis and Huggy Bear. They won Best New Band at the American Synthpop Awards(2002) and had their "Science Genius Girl" featured in the Playstation 2 game Frequency.
Friends : Best Of Friends CD on Summerhouse
The long-anticipated Friends compilation is now available. The inevitably titled Best Of Friends includes selections from all the band’s six albums and from two of their four singles, spanning the period 1986 to 1995. It covers the whole wide range of the band’s music, from the pure pop of their indie heydey, through more rock-inclined numbers, to the stripped-down acoustic pop of their most recent album Folk Songs, all featuring the characteristic Friends trumpet sound and classically English vocals of singer and founder-member William Jones. Best of Friends is accompanied by a lavish 12-page booklet outlining the band’s history and including many unpublished photos, with an introduction by former Factory artist Graham Fitkin. Best Of Friends, whilst retrospective in nature, is no final summing-up of the band’s career. Although silent since the late 90s, the group have remained busy, and have amassed a huge backlog of material for future release. Best Of Friends will quickly be followed by a new Friends studio album, Beautiful You, scheduled for release in summer 2002, with a four-track sampler CD single to be released at the end of July.
Funerals : Pathetic Me CD on Thule Musik
After excellent albums from MUM and TRABANT Thule Musik release something quite different, the debut album from Reykjavik's The Funerals. Their music is a mixture of slow and tragic alt. country tunes and broken heart ballads mixed with Icelandis drinking songs. It all started when two guys Raggi and Doddi, ( usually doing instrumental electro music) got together on cold winter nights, drank some port and started singing the blues. The result was quite amazing. So, during two weekends in a small cabin under a cracking glacier, they recorded the album "Pathetic Me".The recordings were recorded onto a simple old two track tape. Nominated as the best record of the year 2001, at the Icelandic Music Awards plus an article about the band featured in The New York Times and they even got their picture on the front page of the arts section in N.Y.Times. File next to: Tindersticks/Lincoln/Will Oldham.
Galore : Parader CD on : Tidemark/Fading Ways
Parader opens with the song "Little Hit Parader," a slightly jarring glam rock opus that sets the tone for the album — at least the first half of this, their second full-length. Side A (or the first five songs of the CD) is reminiscent of a nightmare that takes place in a sketchy bar (or an old mansion on the side of the road during a storm). Side B sounds like a completely different band — more pop than rock, with a folky, country influence. The song Waltz is killer. How they’d put a set list together for a live show, I don’t know
Gare Du Nord : In Search Of CD on Pias
Gare Du Nord are a musical partnership between Francois Inca and Dinant Lance who met in Paris in 1998. A year later, they were joined by third member Wahid. The trio started Gare Du Nord as a conceptual musical vehicle based upon their shared appreciation for film and music, indeed, the album, ‘in search of excel lounge’, offers their personal memories of Paris via the wide variety of musical styles and influences pooled between them. Their hybrid of music has put them in the territories that St Germain’ “Tourism” inhabit. The journey of ‘in search of excel lounge’ spans elements of French disco through to the delta blues fuelled rhythms of ‘Pablo’s Blues’. ‘Pablo’s Blues’ uses an eerily potent sample of Robert Johnson and Gare Du Nord succeeds where many have failed – enhancing a classic blues sample by meshing the lo-fi original recording of the track with beautiful brassic synth beats, the authenticity seeping through. The rest of the album sustains its raison d’etre, managing to flow seamlessly through with the George Benson –like ‘Taxi Au Moulin’ and ‘Searching Gainsbourg’ – a tribute to the controversial French singer, (on a day when he gets through at least half a pack of Gauloises ).
Gaza strippers : From The Desk Of Dr Freepill CD on nicotine
New album from the mighty gaza strippers, the fast paced nitro fueled punksters fronted by Former didjit rick sims! This is their third album, and follows up from their lookout album 1000 Watt confessions, their mini album on twenty stone blatt, and their debut on man’s ruin. 10 tracks of Raw and barbed punk rock with the unmistakeable vocals of rick sims. 3 tracks are from a wild show i N sweden. Includes covers of blue oyster cult, queen and love and rockets.
Gc5 : Never Bet The Devil Your Head .CD on Thick
Influenced by the drive and urgency of late 70's British punk, Chuck Berry guitar riffs, and the melodicism and bitterness of Elvis Costello, with a working-class ethic and D.I.Ydetermination, “brothers and sisters,” THE GC5. Balls to the wall rock’n’roll, complete with fierce guitars, street punk intensity and catchy fist raising anthems. Never Bet The Devil Your Head is the bands 4th record (2nd full length), and the kids barely twenty (two of which are brothers) know their roots. Recorded in their home town - Cleveland, Ohio - and produced by the Dropkick Murphy’s Ryan Foltz (who also plays organ and mandolin on the record) - themes of working class pride, left politics and anti-establishment outrage run rampant.
Gem : Sunglare Serenades .CD on Pitch-a-tent
2nd album, their debut "Hexed" was released by Restless, from the pop rocking combo formed in 1992 & featuring DOUG GILLARD & TIM TOBIAS of GUIDED BY VOICES who handle guitar+vox, Tim's brother, Todd, plays bass, keys+samples while Eric Vogt handles drums. Think GUIDED BY VOICES, nuff said!'What a tight piece of work. For having members of Guided by Voices in their group, the songs on Sunglare Serenades are surprisingly tight and straightforward. Although some of the sound is similar, their songs seem like more cohesive, complete types of Guided by Voices songs. Each track seems to contain steady beats with the guitars capable of flailing and driving anywhere they damn well please. Songs like "J.H.-S" even contain guitars akin to ZZ Top. While occasionally throwing out a quirky guitar-led ditty here or there, this material is nonetheless very ear-friendly, and any Guided by Voices fan would do themselves a great disservice to miss this album. -All Music Guide RECOMMENDED!- ONE OF THE BEST OF 2002 SO FAR!
Beth Gibbons: Rustin Man  - Out Of Season
Seasons come, seasons go, but some things remain the same. The feeling of being out of season and out of step with the times, the surprise of first time experiences. All the things captured on 'Out Of Season', the album by Beth Gibbons and Paul Webb, aka Rustin' Man.
You'll know Beth from Portishead and Paul from Talk Talk. They've been friends since before Beth joined Portishead when Beth had auditioned for Paul's post-Talk Talk band, O'rang. The pair kept in contact andat the end of the last Portishead tour a break for Beth arose and a conversation sparked the collaboration.
On one level, 'Out Of Season' is all you'd expect an album from the duo's background: exquisitely melodic, haunting…both three-in-the-morning air of calm and nape-hair-raising at the same time. With a spiritual depth, but palpably human emotion. With a definite feeling of sadness, but infused with the joy of nature ("God knows, how I adore life / When the wind turns on theshores lies another day" - 'Mysteries'). But then this is a different record to Portishead or Talk Talk. For one, it's 'beats'-free, and has more of a timeless, feel. Those who love Nick Drake, or Nina Simone, or even Radiohead's 'Exit Music (For a Film)' should unconditionally love 'Out Of Season'.
"The thing that I'm into is the philosophy of the music. I love the surprise of things, the accidents…just the sound of a word, to try to express them in the best way, so that the emotion is totally revealed” -Beth Gibbons
Giddy Motors : Make It Pop CD on Fat Cat
Following hot on the heels of their debut single ‘Whirled By Curses’ (released on FatCat in July), ‘Make It Pop’ delves further into their taut, idiosyncratic take on rock. Recorded with Steve Albini at Electrical Audio studios in Chicago over a nine day period in the Autumn of 2001, the eight tracks here take in a range of styles and ideas, though for the most part, these are intense, wayward, and strangely anglicised songs set to tight, chaotic chord progressions and jagged, acrobatic percussion. Utilising drums, bass, guitar and vocals to full effect with drums also triggering occassional saxophone samples, their songs are explosive and prone to suddenly flip back on themselves or fly off at unexpected angles. The album sets out its stall from the full-on AmRep/Sabbath punk of the opening track, ‘Magmanic’, and this formula provides the backbone of the album. Yet the band’s ability to transcend the genre (witness the more reflective ‘Cranium Crux’, the pastoral acousticism of ‘Venus Medallist’, the 23 Skidoo / Pop Group-style rhythms that pervade the album), sets them apart from any scene as such. Chaotic, energetic and aggressive, perhaps more than anything, Giddy Motors sound like a band locked into their own thing, intensely focused and happy to explore their own wayward logic
Gigolo Aunts : Pacific Ocean Blues CD on Bittersweet
Taking their name from the Syd Barrett song, the effervescent power-pop unit Gigolo Aunts first came together in 1981 in New York then moved to Boston. While in the UK with Velvet Crush, Gibbs made a number of crucial contacts with Creation Records' Alan McGee and the members of Teenage Fanclub, and interest in the Gigolo Aunts began to build. A series of assured EPs - Gigolo Aunts, Gun and Full-On Bloom - appeared to strong reviews, as did 1994's rocky album Flippin' Out, the 1995 EP Where I Find My Heaven (the 'Game On' TV theme) and Minor Chords and Major Themes in 1999. Pacific Ocean Blues is the closest thing to a "definitive" album that the Gigolo Aunts have ever released. The smooth production values of the last album still reign here, but the band doesn't hesitate to rock out a lot more, which produces some of the band's most memorable material. Specifically, "Let Go!" is easily the most infectious and immediate song in the Gigolo Aunts' canon - while it runs for just over five minutes, the song packs in two fantastic, flashy guitar solos and a killer horn-inflected chorus. And on the more "adult" side, "Even Though (The One Before the Last)" tops nearly all of the mid-tempo material on the last album. Recorded at Counting Crow's Adam Duritz's studio in the Hollywood hills, Pacific Ocean Blues, by tying up the band's stylistic loose ends, is possibly the Gigolo Aunts' most consistent listen.
Girlinky : My Huge Head CD on Dedear Records
Endearing debut from this fine Anglo-Antipodean four piece featuring striking female vocals. Girlinky's brand of indie rock is steeped in that classic eigthies Aussie/New Zealand indie rock sound echoing the greats such the Go Betweens, The Clean and the Gordons.
Gloryholes : Want A Divorce CD on dirtnap
Get up off your knees son and come out of that stall, 'cause the gloryholes are here with a brand new record. Want a divorce is 13 more songs filled with crunch, shrrang, boom, crash, smack, throb and shriek. Following close on the heels of their debut release, knock you up (empty us), the gloryholes haven't skipped a beat. This is punk rock n' roll played with reckless abandon, not just a smidgen of "fuck you." with jack endino (nirvana, the nights and days, etc.) At the helm once again, the gloryholes have put together another damn fine record that'll make you jump up off the couch and yell "fuck Yeah! Get me another beer, ma!" features eye poppin' full color cover art by hate's very own peter Bagge! (he's famous, you know!)
Go Back Snowball : Calling Zero CD on Fading Captain
Mr. Robert pollard (guided by voices) and mr. Mac mccaughan (superchunk) have joined forces to bring you twelve tracks of pure pop bliss. With mac handling all of the instrumentation at his studio in north carolina, and robert kicking out the vocal duties at the lovely cro-magnon studios in dayton, ohio - the two (collectively known here as go back snowball) have completed a record so cohesive, so strong, so perfect one could never guess they hadn't spent even an afternoon in the studio together. Mac presented robert with a bed of beautiful instrumentals, and in turn, robert has delivered lyrical magistery and vocal performances that only he could top. With 'calling zero', the "band" have given us no less than exactly what onewould expect from a meeting of these two masterminds.
Godspeed You Black Emperor : Yanqui Uxo CD on Constellation
GODSPEED UNLEASH THEIR MASSIVE NEW ALBUM AT WHAT COULDN'T BE A MORE PERTINENT TIME IN WORLD POLITICS. THE FIRST NEW ALBUM FOR TWO YEARS, THE ALBUM ARTWORK FEATURES BOMBS DROPPING ON AN UNDISCLOSED TARGET ON THE FRONT AND A 'FAMILY TREE' OF ARMS DEALERS ON THE REVERSE. U.X.O = unexploded ordnance, landmines, cluster bombs. YANQUI = post-colonial imperialism, international police state, multinational corporate oligarchy. Recorded by STEVE ALBINI. Single compact disc and double vinyl in awesome packaging. File Next To: Godspeed The music speaks for itself and so does the message.
Gogogo Airheart : Exitheuxa CD on Gold Standard Laboratories
Brand new album from cult U.S. outfit released on AT THE DRIVE IN/MARS VOLTA run label G.S.L. GoGoGo Airheart are a unique and easily-recognizable feature on the landscape of eccentric, experimental modern pop/rock. Their previous efforts have each been critically-acclaimed and are certainly on par with any by like-minded groups from Talking Heads to Flaming Lips. Recorded at various San Diego locations - including GSL and Three One G's own E Street house! - and mixed with Rafter Roberts (Rocket From the Crypt, Album Leaf, etc.) during the winter of 2001-02, Exitheuxa is GoGoGo Airheart's fourth full-length release and their second LP for GSL. GoGoGo Airheart venture well beyond this easy pigeonhole in their newer compositions. This album is certainly their most straight-ahead "rock" record to date - though it's unlike anyone else's 'brand' to say the least. Useful reference points might also include Pere Ubu, Happy Mondays, Unrest, and mid- 70's era Rolling Stones....... *Special appearances include members of ROCKET FROM THE CRYPT, Tristeza, and others. File Under: Post Punk Smorgasbord For Fans Of: The Flaming Lips, Pere Ubu, The Pop Group
Gogol Bordello : Voi - La Intruder CD on Rubric
New from Rubric : Combining elements of punk, gypsy music, and Brecht-ian cabaret, Gogol Bordello tells the story of New York's immigrant diaspora through debauchery, humor, and surreal costumes. Leader and singer Eugene Hütz's taste in music was spun out of black-market tapes of the Birthday Party and Einstürzande Neubauten in his native Ukraine. After being evacuated to Western Ukraine in 1986 following the Chernobyl disaster, Hütz became enamored of the mystical, outsider qualities of gypsy music. Living as a refugee in Poland, Hungary, Austria, and Italy before moving to the United States in 1993, he experienced life as an outsider himself. After arriving in New York, he teamed up with guitarist Vlad Solofar and squeezebox player Sasha Kazatchkoff. American Eliot Fergusen added a strong rock sound on the drums and the band was also augmented by Sergei Riabtsev on fiddle. Their music soon evolved into the hyper-kinetic explosions that earned them a solid following amongst New York's downtown hipsters. Voi-La Intruder was produced by Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds' drummer Jim Sclavunos" ALL MUSIC GUIDE. "The fired-up Eastern Europeans in Gogol Bordello define rock 'n roll as being frantic, sweaty and filled with horns and accordion riffs-not unlike the Pogues in spirit.." -Time Out, NYC
Good Charlotte : The Young and the Hopeless CD on Sony
There’s nothing like an instrumental song to open up a "punk" album. If you were to go by appearances, GC would be playing some pretty aggressive hardcore, but unfortunately looks are deceiving. Ignore the Minor Threat references, the MT tattoo on the leg and any and all connections to old-school punk. Clean, wholesome, pop-punk along the lines of MXPX (and just as religious) and the like, Good Charlotte's new record is boring, sappy and full of cliched lyrics of hard knocks and spoiled celebrities. It seems that GC take the music as therapy road a little too literally, as they don't try to mask the contempt and ill feelings about fathers (at least three songs have reference to a dad — one minute hating him and the next feeling sorry for him). Good songwriters have a knack for writing personal, therapeutic lyrics without coming across as such. Good Charlotte haven't learned this crucial lesson yet.
Gore Gore Girls : Up All Night CD on Get Hip
Bridging the gap between traditional r&b, detroit r'n'r and old fashioned bump and grind come the first ladies of detroit's garage girl-group sound.. The girls of gore let loose with their poppiest, most powerful, signature girl-group/girl-gang sound ever -- with 13 scorching tracks of dirty love, each one delivered right in the kisser. The gore gore girls headed into jim diamond's now legendary ghetto recorders in detroit last september to deliver the second round. Armed with nasty, loud and sweet(!) Rock 'n' roll numbers, gore guitarist/songwriter amy surdu added more sugar to the mix with some classic girl group covers: "keep your hands off my baby" and "standing on the corner". Combined with sound of their trademark originals, up all night delivers the low-fi love that gore fans crave. There are girl groups and girl gangs--the gore gore girls are both. Rock, dance and romance with three badass babes from detroit.
Grand Drive  : See The Morning In Cd on Gravity/BMG
Recorded this summer on home turf in south London, 'See The Morning In' sees Grand Drive - Danny Wilson (vocals, guitar), Julian Wilson (vocals, keyboards), Ed Balch (bass, vocals), Paul Wigens (drums) - further refine an aesthetic that began with the sophisticated americana flavours and Midnight Cowboy style of 1999's 'Road Music', and continued in fine style with the soulful modern classicism of follow-up 'True Love And High Adventures'. 'See The Morning In' has all thewarmth and craft of its predecessors but this time the Australian born Wilson brothers' songs have been stripped of much of the instrumentation that characterised the band's previous releases. Julian: "The first album, we were just recording songs as they were written, which turned into a record. The second, we had an idea that we wanted to make a great big beautiful thing out of little pieces with little money. Ironically it was the first time we could really afford to have more of anything yet we wanted less of everything". Danny: "Less drums, less guitar, less organ, less harmonies, less everything. Less of a production job, more of a band record. To let the songs stand up for themselves a little more". Which is exactly what they do, to wonderful effect.
Grand Oral : Worlds Highest Thrill Ride CD on Five45
The criticism that the British music press doesn’t spend a lot of time looking for new talent in London does indeed sound laughable. Grand Oral, despite being based in our nation’s capital and undertaking a similar musical direction to groups the UK press have loved getting their teeth into recent months, have somehow been overlooked by journalists too busy concentrating on the embarrassing amount of overseas talent we’re currently experiencing. If only they came from New York…
What relatively little attention they have gathered has for the most part been full of understandable praise. ‘World’ Highest Thrill Ride’ is the three-piece’s debut record, and following a number of well-received EPs and live-shows which have made a disappointingly smaller impact on the music-world than they should have. Their sound is one not dissimilar from those that current darlings The Strokes and The White Stripes both hark back to, that being the fuzzy comfort of Dinosaur Jr. and Sonic Youth, as well as the twisted pop sensibilities of the Pixies.
So, could they be the long-waited British element that today’s scene lacks? Possibly. At times, ‘World’ Highest Thrill Ride’ is sublime beyond belief, great examples arriving in the shapes of the gorgeous melancholia of ‘Feel Like’ or a moving ‘Not A Day’, the vocals provided by front man Anthony Smith on the latter perhaps being the album’s emotional peak. Indeed, time and effort have been taken and well-utilised to ensure that none of these eleven compositions sound in the least bit flat, trickery and twists abound in the likes of a slightly sinister ‘Godant 7’, but despite the apparent sweat lost over the tunes, it doesn’t ever sound as if it’s trying too hard.
Grand Oral only lack a few things. They’ve taken their repertoire from a very fine list of influences, but suffer when it comes to building on them to create something to call their own. On occasion, this keeps them grounded when they should be flying, occasionally sounding like a parody of their heroes rather than forging their own path to greatness; additionally, this could be levelled through to the slightly amateurish quality to both the lyrics and artwork alike, but, reassuringly, the music hints that there are more than enough exciting roads to travel down on further adventures... Yes, what they need is simply a killer song with an individual flair, and whilst a fair few of the tunes on ‘WHTR’ come close to this mystical level of excellence, they’re yet to maintain their foot firmly in the door.
Such criticism may seem harsh for such a new, vibrant talent, but it’s only because this record is so achingly, frustratingly near to being something really rather luminous that it needs to be said at all. It’s a safe bet that while their debut LP is a highly endearing collection of grunge-orientated pop songs, it most certainly won’t be Grand Oral’s finest hour.
In fact, when they play by their own rules instead of ones dictated to them by the ghosts of musical-past as on the affirmatively-titled ‘Golden Shit’, it’s a strong call to arms, a threat that dismissing the trio now will only make you seem slightly foolish when they become something truly wonderful in the future... For now, though we’ll happily put up with them being simply rather good.
David Gray : New Day At Midnight
For all the comparisons with 'White Ladder' that David Gray's new album will no doubt meet, 'A New Day At Midnight is far from simply 'White Ladder Pt2'. Recorded intermittently between spring 2001 and August 2002 in Iht's Clapham studio (all 20 x 10 ft of it), the results are certain to defy expectations. Here is a record that plays and was built by its own rules, an event and piece of work in its own right. "After the huge success of 'White Ladder' there was a certain amount of psychology involved in making this record", says David. "The task I faced was to get past all that, and get on with the job of writing and recording some music that articulated how I was thinking and feeling in the here and now". There is an undoubtable shift of tone between the two records,whilst the simplicity of sound and structure remains unadulterated. "I'm just doing what I do. It's not that there's been a decision made togo in this direction, that's  just the way it's gone". Includes the single 'The Other Side'.
Great Lakes : Distance Between CD on Track And Field
Great lakes return for a second lp, full of the same psyche pop harmony driven tunes that made their first record such a hit with critics and pop kids throughout the world. Great lakes hail from athens, georgia, usa and are centred around the hard-core trio of ben crum, dan donahue and jamie huggins with a mid-core that includes various members of the olivia tremor control, of montreal, neutral milk hotel and elfpower. Robert schneider of the apples in stereo also lent a hand with the mixing of this lp. Influences range from the sonics to the zombies, brian eno and the kinks, to the flaming lips and galaxie 500. Great lakes' eponymous debut is an explicit display of neo-psychedelic production values. Pepperland pet sounds that see-saw between gorgeous stereophonic experiments and whimsical vaudeville. - uncut magazine "enough breezy harmonies and wind instruments scattered among the strawberry fields to make you forget the last 30 years ever happened."
Grebo : Don't Just Do Something Stnad There CD on Sugar Shack
Grebo formed in September 1999, after playing shows in and around Bristol for a year, the guys headed into the Whitehouse Studio to record the Grebo EP. They've built up a loyal local fanbase, and a reputation as one of Bristol's most high-energy live acts, the band played their first tour off the back of the EP, supporting Californian Pop Punks "The Ataris" in May 2001. After a successful summer that saw Grebo secure a slot at Reading Festival, the band headed into the Studio once again to record a brand new 5-track EP entitled "Nothing New". With support slots including The Ataris, Midtown, King Prawn, Nerf Herder, Leatherface, Fabulous Disaster and Leftover Crack under their belts, the band will be doing a headline tour of the UK "BEHOLD your future executioners, the new teenage brit-punk revolution/revelation is upon us" TOMMY UDO[7/10] METAL HAMMER OCT 2002
Greenhornes : Dual Mono CD on Telstar Records
After touring the uk recently supporting the datsun’s and the von bondies, cincinnati fourpiece the greenhornes (the white strieps’ favourite band!) Deliver their second full length for the new york label telstar. 12 tracks of white soul and old school r&b, with one foot in the garage camp, the other in the 60’s soul camp. The greenhornes even get holly golightly to take lead vocals on one track, and a duet on another. Drawing inspiration from the likes of the who, lovin spoonful, and great rock and roll from the brit invasion, the new greenhornes album is in the right place at the right time!!
Halcyon Band : Sirocco CD on Eggbert
So far most of the attention THE HALCYON BAND have received on two continents has been focused on comparisons with the US West Coast of the 60s and the new breed of retro-New York punk bands that have hogged headlines from Seattle to Stockholm. Anyone expecting a Love/The Strokes hybrid with 'Sirocco' should leave their preconceptions in the CD sleeve when they hit play. If you wanted to describe the Halcyon sound, you'd have to include The Beatles, The Who, Beck, Dylan, Sly Stone, The Stooges, Primal Scream, The Pixies and Big Star, to name a few. Lyrics might allude to the claustrophobia of small-town life, but where other bands have built albums - even careers - on the back of that one-trick pony, the Halcyon's take it further. The Halcyon Band are from York & are signed to the ultra hip LA based Eggbert Records. Press reports: 'Packed with frantically strummed guitars, vintage West Coast harmonies and bursts of Who-like energy' - LA Weekly. 'Shot through with bead whirling, loon Moon rolling drum fills, Arthur Lee preaching vocals, and melodious vibes, giving it the feel of the white-out bleached, acid edged Los Angeles hills...' - The Fly. 'Three-minute nuggets of California-kissed guitar pop blessed with soft harmonies, joyous drumming and layers of guitars' - Here.
Hand Of Doom : Black Sabbath Tribute CD on Retrophonic
Perhaps the most star studded tribute band in the short and twisted history of tribute bands, hand of Doom features former smashing pumpkins / hole bassist melissa auf der maur (on lead vocals, as ozzy!!) , ex wallflowers / natalie merchant drummer pedro yanowitz, queens of the stonage's nick oliveri (singing the dio lead on the mob rules, a treat for all fans of rock!!), Guitarist guy satevens, filmmaker Joey garfield, and molly stern. Songs include, hand of doom, fairies wear boots, mob rules, war pigs, Paranoid (this is particulary well covered), changes and black sabbath. Produced by jeff martin and Melissa auf der mar.
Hardkandy : How Do You Do Nothing CD on Cat Skills
Catskills Records unleash the sublime debut long player from Brighton funksters Hardkandy – The “How Do You Do Nothing?” album follows last year’s well-received “Nothing To Do In Hell EP” and the current “Suddenly Calm EP”.. The album showcases Hardkandy’s diversity; sublime vocal tracks sit alongside accomplished instrumentals, the tempo shifting from low gears through to high and back again effortlessly. Vocal contributions come from Ashley Slater (“Funny Thing”), Chungking’s Jess Banks (“Stand Still” and “Moonlight”) and Phillipa Alexander (“Big Sand”). Hardkandy - Simon Little and Tim Bidwell – met two years ago shortly after they migrated South to sunny Brighton. Individually they had been doing production work with the Space Raiders and only met by chance at work. Simon was making ends meet with DJing, production work and a regular gig as organ player at Brighton Ice Rink where Tim was moonlighting as a hot dog seller. They started making music together when they discovered their mutual love for Barry White, Pink Floyd, Al Green and The Meters amongst others. They set about trying to recreate the sound and style of old classics with modern sensibilities.“There are no samples on the album,” explains Tim. “We wanted to bring some musicianship back to modern music. We’ve always been influenced by the warm sound and feeling of old recordings and wanted to get away from repetitive loops.”
Hayden : Skyscraper National Park CD on Loose
Hayden (real name Paul Hayden Desser) is a lo-fi Canadian folk hero turned reluctant alt.rock major label poster boy. His DIY debut ‘Everything I Long For’ was the album that got him his major label deal with Outpost/Geffen and promised much.. He's also shared a stage with Bowie and Pearl Jam, performed at Young's annual Bridge School Benefit and even got a few calls from an admiring Jerry Seinfeld. This unexpected adulation resulted in the Scott Litt produced ‘The Closer I Get’, a 1999 follow up that couldn't quite match up to expectations – then the label Outpost collapsed. Despite numerous offers of so called "rescue deals" Hayden just wasn't interested in making a return to the centre stage and gradually put together ‘Skyscraper National Park’ with no firm plans to release it. Dominated by a warm, almost casual feel the album captures perfectly the sense of a handful of musicians playing and recording together with no real expectations. Hushed, almost breathless folk songs cosy up to a series of seductive yet dramatic moments where his slacker growl creeps under your skin and claims eternal residency. It was hardly a rush job but well worth the wait... UK tour in Autumn with Josh
Jack Hayter : Practical Wireless CD on Absolutely Kosher
Jack Hayter’s voice has ghosts. Whether they were birthed there in the hollows of his words and songs under the influence of nostalgia, drink and hard times or they seeped in with the brittle clarity of the cold night air, no one can say. But they’re there. And you can hear them. Following a few years in a group ahead of the curve (critically acclaimed but otherwise unknown Spongefinger), Jack spends much of his time playing pedal steel, guitar and other instruments for London pop phenomena Hefner. In fact, it was the prodding of Hefner frontman Darren Hayman that got Jack into the studio to record his own songs. Darren sat at the boards and, along with the other members of Hefner, played here and there on the album. His is an incredible voice, both wistful and weathered, crackling with a warm intensity, and he has the pen to match. Jack’s songs have a smoky, homespun feel about them, the kind of music that’s incredibly intimate The album also includes a fantastic, understated, slow and misty version of the Only One’s classic Another Girl, Another Planet.
Headgear : Where This Good Life Goes CD on Diamond Head
Born in Dublin in 1972 Daragh Dukes joined a goth/indie type band who based themselves in London's Tottenham in a house they took over from Neil Hannon's "Divine Comedy". They toured around Europe and released (according to Daragh) "some duff e.p.'s" on the Setanta label. "The main problem was that the music we played was a pale imitation of other vogue-ish current bands. It was always Pixies type music, Wedding Present style, or Public Image image, but without it's own sound, and I thought having your own sound was the whole point" explained Daragh. Soon after, he moved to Holland for a year where he had many and varied jobs, did some raving, and worked on songwriting on his own. More recently, a period working at the modern art museum in Dublin gave him the right environment to experiment and hone his craft. The result of his search for a unique sound can be found on ‘Where this Good Life Goes’, Daragh Dukes debut mini-album. Going under the sobriquet of "Headgear" and with limited resources, in 2001 he released two limited edition 7" singles on his own "marthadigs" label.. So impressed was Sean Rowley that he formed his own label Diamond Head Recordings to accommodate Headgear's music. Asked to describe Headgear, Daragh refuses to be drawn; "Like most writers, I'm pretty crap at pigeon-holing, probably cos I don't want to be. The thing is that I'm not emulating anyone anymore. I'm trying to write tunes that are cinematic and optimistic while avoiding clichés in the process.”
Heelwalkers : Heelwalkers CD on Brobdingnagian
Canada's HEELWALKERS' self-titled debut is 13 tracks of sonic mayhem, just plain old mean-ass guitar fury and pounding drums. Fans of bands like the Hellacopters or Gluecifer will know that good, heavy rock n' roll isn't coming solely from the US. The Heelwalkers play a tightly wound brand of hard rock, and their debut CD intermittently references the stoner rock terrain of Fu Manchu, alongside MC5 bruisers and the metal territory of the Devil Dogs or Nashville Pussy. Songs about chicks, trucks and brawls, wrestling, having a good time, and shaking their asses, The HEELWALKERS aren't afraid to get their hands dirty and blow a few amps
Hellacopter / Gluecifer : Respect The Rock America CD on mans ruin
When man’s ruin went belly up, some bands got their stock back. Gluecifer and the hellacopters got a load back and are selling some to us, and thus we are now able to offer the gluecifer/copters split album at a reasonable price. This is scandinavian rock action at its very best. Tracklist:hellacopters: american ruse, working for mca, a man and a half, her strut, doggone your bad luck and gluecifer: Gary o'kane, shitty city, my card says typhoon killer, no goddamn phones, going down. The hellacopters tour in december
Hermano : Only A Suggestion CD on Teepee
Hermano’s long awaited debut album “only a suggestion”, is finally here. Hermano features john garcia, stoner rock’s version of ian astbury driving force behind bands like kyuss, unida and slo-burn. Garcia rears his ugly head for the first time since unida’s “coping with the urban coyote” album In 1999 on the now defunct man’s ruin records. Hermano also features dandy brown (orquesta del desierto), mike callahan (disengaged), david angstrom (black cat bone) and steve earle (afghan whigs). This hard rock collective lend their high decibel riff work to the project and create a sound that both burns and soothes. “only a suggestion” includes 8 tracks that are reminiscent of classic kyuss strained through soundgarden at 100 miles an hour. John garcia is back in town, and hes rocking hard!
His Name Is Alive : Last Night CD on
One of His Name Is Alive's consistent charms has always been their songwriting, despite an uncanny - some might say mercurial - ability to reinvent themselves from one record to the next - but not even their most ardent fans could have expected what their last album delivered. Some of Warn's most beloved influences - cosmic jazz, funk 45's, and gentle acoustic blues - shine through anew, but the haunting moods are still there, and Lovetta's extraordinary singing continues to set the music aglow. There are no histrionics; every performance is real, evocative and delivered from the heart. Amongst its many treasures, ‘Last Night’ offers a couple of typically Defever-esque raids on the past (a showstopping ‘Teardrops’, which was originally written by Eddy Grant's Equals and a sweet nod to some friends (‘Maybe’, by Ida). But it's the HNIA originals that captivate - the haunting title track, the heartmelt of ‘Flowers’, the beautifully stripped-down ‘I Can See Myself In Her’ and the smoky intimacy of the closing ‘Train’. There's no faux gangsta booty shit, no sickly sentimentality and no pretension. Simply, 'Last Night' is essential listening.
Hoggboy  : Or 8 : CD on Sobriety
Formed just over 18 months ago after a chance meeting on the top deck of the 53 bus in Sheffield, Hoggboy - Hogg (voice/guitar), Bailey (bass), Hugh (guitar), Richy (drums) - put out their debut Richard Hawley-produced single, 'So Young', to critical acclaim in January of this year. This was followed in april by second single 'Shouldn't Let The Side Down', and their first headline UK tour. Now the band reach the next rung on the ascendancy ladder with the release of their eagerly awaiteddebut album. Recorded in the main by legendary producer Chris Thomas, who, along with engineering The Beatles' 'White Album' and mixing 'Dark Side Of The Moon' for Pink Floyd, produced The Sex Pistols' 'Never Mind the B*llocks', INXS and Pulp, 'Or 8?' delivers eleven tracks of purest blistering and tough rock and roll, elegantly delivered with more than a pinch of punk chic by a band fuelled on lager and Embassy number 1's. Includes the single 'Upside Down'.
Homescience : Songs For Sick Days CD on Track And Field
'Songs for sick days' is the second homesience long player featuring twenty two songs to make you want to skip work so you can listen to them over and over again. Andrew ward's fragile voice, their unashamed love of pop, country and toy instruments, the gentle sentiments, the hope, the ability to carve a song out of any situation, it's all here and in abundance: the perfect soundtrack for those deliciously guilty stolen hours of your next duvet day. Like many scottish groups, the band's influences are firmly steeped in americana. Influences range from the flaming lips and grandaddy to the beach boys and the elephant 6 collective. Amid the chiming acoustics and hard edged rhythm there are so many effects and sounds that confirm an obsession with pushing back the sonic boundaries. “stepped in americana but without the compulsive melancholy, homescience could be mercury rev meeting teenage fanclub, or they might be giants cheering up elliot smith.”Total guitar
Home Team : Time And Place CD on Rocketstar Recordings
Eleven songs from Canadian band THE HOME TEAM, inspired by bands like THE GET UP KIDS although they resist the “emo” tag. This will appeal to fans of THE WEAKERTHANS, FOO FIGHTERS and WEEZER
Honeyrider : Sunshine Skyway CD on Orange Sky Records
Sunshine skyway is the first us release for florida's honeyrider, who have generated quite a buzz in the uk and, especially japan, with their two critically-acclaimed import-only records: all systems go! (1998) and splashdown (2000). Sunshine skyway is their best yet. Like its predecessors, the new record is full of buzzin' jesus and mary chain/primitives guitar sounds, beach boys-styled melodies, and soulful psychedelic pop, but the songwriting here is even more potent. The lyrics display a personal side that vocalist/ guitarist gary strickland has only hinted at previously.
Hooblers, The : I Hate Folk Singers CD on Blue Rose
Third album of this Canadian four piece featuring singer/songwriter/guitarist Mike Grier. The Hooblers is an Ottawa, Canada based straight forward rock band. Their music is a well-balanced combination of straight-forward crunchy rock - in the mould of Neil Young and Led Zeppelin - captivated with Grier's extraordinary voice and his ability to write catchy melodies with memorable hooklines, with just enough of a modern, raw edge. The debut album Can You Do This which was released five years ago got critically acclaim and good sales and was listed in the Blue Rose Top 20 for a long time. In March 2000 they had released Where We Are, and now they are back with their latest effort, I Hate Folk Singers. You can expect more of the thoughtful songwriting, tight harmonies and gentle rhythms that prompted the Ottawa Citizen to call the Hooblers "one of the best-kept secrets in Canadian rock." Another Canadian magazine said: "A 13-song set of originals penned by lead singer/rhythm guitarist Mike Grier, the album matches the fire of Neil Young & Crazy Horse at their most footloose…" ROOTS ROCK
Horse Stories : Travelling Mercies CD on Loose
Australian born Toby Burke had demoed a few of his songs with Mick Thomas of Weddings, Parties, Anything …settling in LA he took the moniker Horse Stories off a Dirty Three album and soon began to build up a band. First to get interested was Clinton Stapleton, a Texas native who at the time was playing in a power-pop outfit called National, not exactly where Horse Stories were at, but he could play drums and had an impressive drawl . It wasn’t too long before they began working on ‘Travelling Mercies’. Horse Stories are one of the few bands to sound perfectly stripped down even when they’re all dressed up and, if you pardon the pun, are a very welcome addition to the Loose stable. On the release of ‘Travelling Mercies’ in Australia, the press had this to say: “Wilco and Jeff Buckley all come to mind - but there is an originality that distinguishes Horse Stories from mere copybook applications., Horse Stories already has an identifiable ‘sound’” - The Age
Hot Hot Heat : Make Up The Breakdown CD on Sub Pop/Warner
Hot Hot Heat is a band that won’t be able to avoid the all-too-easy comparisons to The Strokes and critiques of their place in the current garage rock explosion. The genius of Make Up The Breakdown, the first LP from the Victoria quartet, is that it lives up to — and far surpasses — the hype. It takes the template of their first Sub Pop EP, the bitchin’ Knock Knock Knock, to a higher level. Somewhere between "This Town" and "Talk To Me, Dance With Me," you’ll catch on to the flavour of this catchy, danceable rock ‘n’ roll. During the hook on the samba-influenced "Talk To Me…" singer Steve Bays yowls out "You are my only girl, but you’re not my owner girl." What sets Hot Hot Heat apart from The Strokes is the fact that The Strokes will never be this happy. While the cool NYC boys will be busy making sure they’re gorgeous, Canada’s own Hot Hot Heat will be smiling as they get the jaded indie kids shaking their asses.
Hot Hot Heat : Knock Knock Knock LP on Sub Pop
SPECIAL EDITION VINYL : Colored solid pink vinyl AND hand silk screened covers. Victoria, BC's Hot Hot Heat play an updated post-punk style that recalls The Cure and Joy Division, but without all the mopin' around. I know, you're thinking "The Cure and Joy Division without the depression ain't The Cure of Joy Division at all. Where's the comparison?" I'll tell ya where; in the unhinged, dramatic vocals and lock-groove rhythms. That's where. Knock Knock Knock was produced by Chris Walla of Death Cab for Cutie.
Hot Water Music : caution Cd on epitaph
Sometime in the not too distant past, somebody invented a genre, and called it ‘Emo’. We listened, and heard that it was good. Yes, the music it attempted to categorise had existed happily without a silly name for fifteen years or so before some hack came along with a handy tag, but it seemed finally this generation had something it could call its own. ‘Caution’ combines all the best bits of said-genre. Although still nobody strictly knows what Emo is exactly, this will do as a handy introduction.
Despite this being their seventh full-length studio release, this may also be many people in Britain’s introduction to Hot Water Music themselves. So, let’s set the scene: the band sit happily on a sturdy fence that separates the gardens of Fugazi and, erm, Van Halen, enjoyed a high-profile spot living ‘like Carnies’ on the Vans Warped tour this year, and possess an impossible knack for simply writing killer songs. Excited yet?
As it happens, the first seven tracks of the act’s latest album harbour choruses as infectious as a strangely joyous plague. Opener ‘Remedy’ is typical of their huge, hard-hitting sound, boisterous but never violent, comparable at times to the similarly named Hot Rod Circuit or the Get Up Kids. Over the course of the album, variation certainly isn’t a main concern, but, happily, the hooks are so sublime that it matters little that each song could have quite easily contained every chorus on the entire album. In fact, the truly excellent ‘Trusty Chords’ makes fun of this very fact – summing up the band perfectly with the line ‘I hate this place, but I love these chords’. These chords, it seems, love them too, a love-affair they play out on every track – but, if the hat fits…
And this is one mighty comfortable hat. At first, having song after song of relentless melodic hardcore seems slightly foolish as the individual tunes occasionally become too intertwined, but once each track is allowed to settle down inside a comfortable listener’s skull it all begins to make perfect sense. They’re loud and confrontational, but – whisper it quietly – at heart, these are all luminously crafted pop songs.
The only criticism that could be levelled at such a fine effort is that the production, provided by Brian McTernan (whose previous credits include The Promise Ring & Texas Is The Reason) is uncharacteristically plush, perhaps removing an edge that may have made this album a classic, but sufficiently assuring that ‘Caution’ will almost definitely become Hot Water Music’s most successful effort since their 1994 inception.
There we have it, then – officially, HWM sound like the kind of group you could obsess over. And it appears that the band themselves have done the very same over ‘Caution’, meaning that the fruits of their labour are delicious… Huh – kinda makes you wonder why you didn’t pay attention sooner, doesn’t it?
Human League  : Dare (21st Anniversary: Includes Love & Dancing)
Released in 1981, 'Dare' defined a moment in pop history. Spearheaded by the massive number one 'Don't You Want Me', it ushered in a new sound that would shape electronic music throughout the decade. Remastered by Simon Heyworth using 24 bit technology, this 21st anniversary edition comes packaged in a hard backed book style format with 32 pages of lyric, photos and essay contributions from Phil Oakey, Boy George and Simon Heyworth. This release also incorporates theremix album 'Love And Dancing', included on the same disc for the very first time. ('Love And Dancing' was one of the first albums of material remixed specifically for dance clubs. The artist name used for the album, League Unlimited Orchestra, was a play on Barry White's Love Unlimited Orchestra, widely credited for recording the first disco songs).
Hunches : Yes. No. Shut It. CD on in the red
In the red has consistently thrown up great debuts and this is no exception!!! Loud, noisy, aggressive rock’n’roll this is what the hunches are all about and they deliver it some!! Hailing fro mportland oregon, andaveraging 20 years of age, they draw on all the classic influences one would expect from any great rock’n’roll band (eg, stones, saints, cramps, beefheart, dolls, stooges, 60’s punk, 70’s punk, the blues etc) and handle it with irreverent abrasiveness. The reuslt is totally their own, pure nastiness filtered through rock’n’roll romanticism. They include a cover of the electric eels’ “accident” is a total fuzzed out noise (literally there are three vacuum cleaners overdubbed on this song, one of these is sucking up screws!!!) This is exactly how it should be done.
Sonya Hunter : Sun In Mind CD on Innerstate
Bridging the gap between traditional folk and indie rock, senses are indeed warmed and twisted like taffy on Sonya Hunter's 6th album. Recorded in Brooklyn and San Francisco, co-produced by Erik Pearson of Mushroom and Desmond Shea (engineer for The Court & Spark and Tarnation), this is Sonya's most adventurous CD to date. Picture the Andrew Sisters visiting the Cocteau Twins on the way to a Donovan concert...with backwards guitar loops, chamber strings, and a touch of sax reminiscent of Stan Getz. Add rich vocal harmonies that are achingly Eastern European one moment and sparkly '60s beach-party the next and you've got a shining "Sun in Mind"
William Hut : Road Star Dolittle CD on Rec90
Debut solo album from POOR RICH ONES lead singer William Hut. "Road Star Doolittle" departs slightly from the Poor Rich Ones template, by focussing on the mellower, melancholic side of things. Produced by Even Johansen (Magnet), this album features contributions from Espen Mellingen (ST THOMAS / Ai Phoenix) Stig & Pedro (Sister Sonny) and on the stand out track 'Country Hut' vocals from William Hut, Pedro & Magnet. This is a stunning new album from one of the most interesting singer songwriters from Norway. The Poor Rich One's album 'Happy Happy Happy' recieved glowing press in theUK (4**** Guardian, Q, Rock Sound etc), their last single was picked up by
I Am Robot And Proud : The Catch CD on Catmobile
Rigid rhythms underpin circuit-breaking grooves, textured melodies, idm-styled rhythmic pinpricks and a delicate rush of carefully tendered melodies. Captivating and breathtaking, shaw-han liem’s music is bright and vivid, never slipping into gaudy over-indulgence. The release of his debut ‘the catch’ has created a growing ripple of excitement through the electronic pop community; he has received well-deserve praise from the wire, has been played on cbc numerous times, and has recently enjoyed airplay from bbc radio 1’s john peel. Shaw-han regularly plays live in toronto, and visited the uk in september 2001 for a short catmobile tour. A new release and uk tour will follow in 2002.
Idaho : We Were Young And We Needed The Money CD on Retrophonic
A lot has happened since the venerable indie-rock quartet formed in a los angeles garage in 1992. They Have both shaped and survived the "slo-core" movement. In commemoration of their ten year Anniversary, idaho have radided the vaults for "we were young and needed the money", a seventeen Track collection of rarities, outtakes, studio versoins of live favourites, and other accumulated Effluvia of a decade of making records.
Ill Lit : Wacmusic CD on Badman
Containing the best elements of vintage Americana, combining it with electronic cut-and-paste sonic pastiches, ILL LIT's debut album "WACMusic" endeavours to turn the perfect pop song on its head. ILL LIT's unique construct of ambient home-recorded noise serving as background to a more traditional rendering of folk/country music might seem ambitious, but the resulting sound is inspired. The album is a sonic marvel - earnest vocals tinged with honeyed twang rising over the soothing white-noise of loops, beats and a battered boombox, with Hunter Thompson-esque lyrics. Produced and recorded by D. Ahearn, M. Moser, and Dylan Magierek (Mark Kozelek (Red House Painters), Erland Oye (Kings of Convenience). "Country harmonies, ambient recorded noise, slow distant melodies, minimal production , their sound is of sincerity and disaffection. Worth tracking down." (8 out of 10) -Vice Magazine. "Songs that are elegies of American lostness, road music for a new breed of pioneers" - Sound Collector Magazine.
Impossible Shapes : Laughter Fills Of Hollow Dome CD on Recordhead
Welcome to the album you need to know about for 2002. A band whose frontman is the 21 year old wunderkid of his college town, bloomington, indiana. The impossible shapes are the now great thing in a next great thing world. Considered by many tastemakers to be the best underground pop band in existence today, the impossible shapes have previously enjoyed success and recognition among true music cognoscente. Now, with the release of 'laughter fills our hollow dome', the band is poised to break onto the national stage, beyond the record collectors and music critics. Current producer bill doss (olivia tremor control, elephant 6, sunshine fix) says: "in describing the impossible shapes' music, cherries fall where texts fail."
India.Arie : Voyage To India Cd on Motown/Universal
Fans of India.Arie's debut, Acoustic Soul, will undoubtedly lap up every neo-soul second of her sophomore release, Voyage To India. She's likely to find new converts as well. As on her debut, India.Arie bathes her minimalist beats in layers of lush harmonies and acoustic guitar. Her vocals are front and centre, laying out positive, femme-friendly lyrical content. India.Arie once again displays a meticulous ear for detail, but unlike Alicia Keys she lets the soul vibe flow without resorting to excessive vocal histrionics. Expect this disc to push her into the upper echelon of contemporary soul sisters, alongside Keys and Erykah Badu
Infinity Chimps : Sounds Of Nant Y Benglog LP on Ankstmusik
AnkstMusik issue a very special LIMITED edition Vinyl -only new John Lawrence/Infinity Chimps solo album. 'Sounds of Nant Y Benglog' is Lawrence's second solo collection to be released under the name Infinity Chimps. It contains eight brand new compositions and is split musically into two separate but complimentary halves. Side 1 is reminicent of the acoustic guitar playing John contributed to early classic albums released by his former band Gorky's Zygotic Mynci. Side 2 is an electronic journey that takes us deep into the heart of 'Nant Y Benglog'. 500 copies only
Ink And Dagger : Ink And Dagger CD on Buddyhead
This is the self titles, third and final full length release, from Philadelphia's night stalkers INK & DAGGER. Over the course of 3 years, Ink & Dagger made a name for themselves as one of the most progressive, controversial, and sensory provoking bands around. Throughout their existence, the group successfuly explored their punk and hardcore roots while developing their own brand of sonically powerful rock. The band forged their reputation by touring the world with the likes of Refused, Atari Teenage Riot and the Misfits. "Ink & Dagger" is destined to be a classic, the groups dark imagery and precarious bite combines with a deadly scope of sounds extending from sharp explosive energy bursts to spacey instrumentals and delicate rhythms. For fans of : My Bloody Valentine, Black Sabbath
Instruments : Billions Of Phonograpsh CD on Orange Twin
Billions of phonographs is the first recording by the instruments. It is a beautiful and brilliant record, with entrancing folk melodies. Heather mcintosh is the songwriter, and she has been a staple of athens music for years. She has been playing cello since very small, and earned a degree in music from the university of georgia. Heather quickly realized school was not enough of an outlet for her talents. She joined a punk band, zero, in which she played bass. That lasted about a year, then she discovered performance art through medaglia d¹oro and dixie blood mustache. Heather is currently a member of japancakes, circulatory system, great lakes, and dixie blood mustache. She also has played or recorded with bands such as elf power, superchunk, of montreal, the gerbils, little red rocket, sunshine fix, and many many others.
Iron Boss : Guns Don't Kill People... CD on Game Two
Back in the hot summer of 2001, the boys from IRON BOSS found themselves in a fortuitious situation. Flat, on their arse broke, they carted their gear into samlltown venue, and were promptly asked by the promoterif they would allow him to make an ADAT recording of the set. "Hell Yes" they said. And here it is in all it's unfettered, sweaty glory - no overdubs, digital cleaning up, pitch-correctors or Pro Tools fannying. Just honest ROCK & ROCK played with blood & guts. What's that you say? You don't like live albums??? Well, this is no ordinary live album - put this alongside AC/DC's classic "If You Want Blood.." Awesome, dirt-raw, punk rock & roll, the way God intended. For Fans of: NASHVILLE PUSSY, AC/DC, MOTORHEAD
Iron Maiden  : Edward The Great: Gt Hits
An outstanding collection of music, 'Edward The Great - The Greatest Hits' brings together - on one killer CD - 16 of Iron Maiden's finest moments from a career that has seen them sell over 50 million albums worldwide. Compiled by the band themselves, and featuring brand new Eddie artwork, 'Edward The Great' serves as a timely reminder of the righteous power of metal from a band who have continued as defenders of the faith while those around them have either withered or denied their roots.
Iron Maiden  : Eddies Archive: Box: 6cd
01.     Iron Maiden - Friday Rock Show Session 1979
02.     Running Free - Friday Rock Show Session 1979
03.     Transylvania - Friday Rock Show Session 1979
04.     Sanctuary - Friday Rock Show Session 1979
05.     Wrathchild - Reading Festival 1982
06.     Run To The Hills - Reading Festival 1982
07.     Children Of The Damned - Reading Festival 1982
08.     The Number Of The Beast - Reading Festival 1982
09.     22 Acacia Avenue - Reading Festival 1982
10.     Transylvania - Reading Festival 1982
11.     The Prisoner - Reading Festival 1982
12.     Hallowed Be Thy Name - Reading Festival 1982
13.     Phamtom Of The Opera - Reading Festival 1982
14.     Iron Maiden - Reading Festival 1982
Disc Two: BBC Archives
01.     Prowler - Reading Festival 1980
02.     Remember Tomorrow - Reading Festival 1980
03.     Killers - Reading Festival 1980
04.     Running Free - Reading Festival 1980
05.     Transylvania - Reading Festival 1980
06.     Iron Maiden - Reading Festival 1980
07.     Moonchild - Monsters Of Rock Festival Donington 1988
08.     Wrathchild - Monsters Of Rock Festival Donington 1988
09.     Infinite Dreams - Monsters Of Rock Festival Donington 1988
10.     The Trooper - Monsters Of Rock Festival Donington 1988
11.     Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son - Monsters Of Rock Feastival Donington 1988
12.     The Number Of The Beast - Monsters Of Rock Festival Donington 1988
13.     Hallowed Be Thy Name - Monsters Of Rock Festival Donington 1988
14.     Iron Maiden - Monsters Of Rock Festival Donington 1988
Disc Three: Beast Over Hammersmith
01.     Murders In The Rue Morgue
02.     Wrathchild
03.     Run To The Hills
04.     Children Of The Damned
05.     The Number of The Beast
06.     Another Life
07.     Killers
08.     22 Acacia Avenue
09.     Total Eclipse
Disc Four: Beast Over Hammersmith
01.     Transylvania
02.     The Prisoner
03.     Hallowed Be Thy Name
04.     Phantom Of The Opera
05.     Iron Maiden
06.     Sanctuary
07.     Drifter
08.     Running Free
09.     Prowler
Disc Five: Best Of The B-Sides
01.     Burning Ambition
02.     Drifter - Live
03.     Invasion
04.     Remember Tomorrow - Live
05.     I've Got The Fire
06.     Cross-Eyed Mary
07.     Rainbow's Gold
08.     King Of Twilight
09.     Reach Out
10.     That Girl
11.     Juanita
12.     The Sheriff Of Huddersfield
13.     Black Bart Blues
14.     Prowler '88
15.     Charlotte The Harlot '88
Disc Six: Best Of The B-Sides
01.     All In Your Mind
02.     Kill Me Ce Soir
03.     I'm A Mover
04.     Communication Breakdown
05.     Nodding Donkey Blues
06.     Space Station No.5
07.     I Can't See My Feelings
08.     Roll Over Vic Vella
09.     Justice Of The Peace
10.     Judgement Day
11.     My Generation
12.     Doctor Doctor
13.     Blood On The World's Hands - Live
14.     The Aftermath - Live
15.     Futureal - Live
16.     Wasted Years '99 - Live
Presented in a unique 270 x 190 x 60mm limited edition silver Eddie embossed casket, 'Eddie's Archive' comprises of three double CDs containing the band's earliest live recordings from 1979 through to their headlining performance at Donington in 1988. Also included is the compilation 'The Best Of The B-Sides', plus a crystal Eddie Head shot glass and an individually numbered Pete Frame family tree on parchment scroll, detailing the complete Iron Maiden history and rolled in a specially designed Eddie ring. Each of the three double CDs have full colour 24 page booklets, two with new Eddie artwork with previously unseen photos of the various line-ups, and one based on the original classic '82 tour programme.
Ist : Pokalolo Paniolo CD on Inbetweens
The quintessential stoner-rock power trio, iST was formed by Astrid Young (sister of NEIL YOUNG), David Kiner (ex-of Juno-nominated Mal Havoc) and Dan Cornelius (Sass Jordan, Rocket Science, Monster Voodoo Machine) in Toronto Canada. Dan, Dave and Astrid put together songs and a live show in the style of the music they'd all grown up listening to - Black Sabbath and Iggy Pop being cited as the primary influences. Along with noted engineer/producer Rob Sanzo (VoiVod, Treble Charger), Astrid produced the first iST album, 'Pokalolo Paniolo'. "Stoner Rock? What's that, we thought: some convoluted term made up by some radio or record guy ... really it's just old-school heavy music. We tune way down, we riff hard, we dig into it, man." But falling into a category of rock shared by Kyuss, Fu Manchu, Queens of the Stone Age and The Melvins isn't such a bad thing: "they're some of our favourite bands!" Having toured briefly but successfully in Canada and California, the band also shot a short film called Haunted, which is a (fake) documentary about a band (iST) whose singer is a serial killer. The film has shown in festivals worldwide and to date has won two awards, as well as being banned in four countries for the brutality depicted. This album features much of the music that is in the film. By the way, 'Pokalolo Paniolo' means 'marijuana cowboy' in Hawaiian.
Jackpot : Shiny Things CD on Surfdog
Brand new album from vocalist / guitarist rusty miller who's songwriting combines townes van zant charm with stephen malkmus style zaniness with nick drake and bill callahan. 'Shiny things' is the bands third release and is the follow up to 2000's 'weightless'. The new york times described them as 'one of california's greatest unknown bands and mojo and q have all wriiten glowing reviews.
Jack Russell : For You CD on Ulftone
Brand new debut album from the former great white vocalist. Having disbanded great white after a farewell performance on new years eve 2001 the singer has launched a solo career. Jack’s band features a multi-platinum all-star line up including bob kulick (kiss / meatloaf / lou reed), billy sherwood (yes / paul rodgers), vinnie colaiuta (sting / zappa / stevie nicks) and tony levin (john lennon / peter gabriel / pink floyd). Classy hook filled melodic hard rock.
Jarcrew : Breakdance Euphoriea Kids .CD on Complete Control
Following up their critically acclaimed debut single "Paris & The New Math", South Wales Post Hardcrew mob JARCREW deliver up their first album: 9 songs chock full of smart, sassy twisting, turning, constantly surprising sounds. Bringing to mind modern innovators like REFUSED, ICARUS LINE, AT THE DRIVE IN, LOSTPROPHETS etc, with a little dose of SUPERFURRY ANIMALS style Welsh whimsy to boot.... "Spiky and full of righteously raw hardcore ire… would sound at home on Fugazi's Dischord label" 4KKKK KERRANG! "A cracker" NME
Mark Jenkins  : Sequencer Loops CD on Amp Records
Mark Jenkins best recordings to date: ...It includes mostly long, melodic sequencer/ rhythm combinations and synthesizer tracks with influences from Ashra, Michael Hoenig and Klaus Schulze - but with touches of Pink Floyd, Hawkwind and Carlos Santana (and "a lot of guitar").
Jesse James : Hotwired (CD). on Deck Cheese Records
If you don’t know them already JESSE JAMES is a six piece soul/punk act, think DEXY’S meets CLASH meets BLINK 182. They have increased their already large fan-base by touring with the likes of THE POGUES, 311, LIT & the recent Big Cheese/Radio 1 sponsored ‘Smash It Up’ tour. Their constant touring has built them a loyal fan-base across the country & their heavy rotational appearance on Kerrang TV is winning the band new fans on a daily basis. The band are currently embarking on a full UK tour supporting the SUICIDE MACHINES as part of their huge gigging schedule which hasn’t seen them stop in the past 6 months.
Jets To Brazil : Perfecting Loneliness CD on Jade Tree
"It's beautiful and it's sad, but it's all that I have," Blake Schwarzenbach sings on Perfecting Loneliness, the first album from JETS TO BRAZIL in over two years. Not that beauty and sadness are anything new to JETS TO BRAZIL. When everyone last heard from the band, they had delivered Four Cornered Night, a melancholy mix of folk, rock, country, and just about everything in between. Inspired by Four Cornered Night's ambitious nature, the band has returned with Perfecting Loneliness: a mirrorball of sound that reflects a clearer, more focused JETS TO BRAZIL. Perfecting Loneliness represents not so much a continuation of the band's previous gestures, but a better understanding of them. Now, the melodies flow out of Schwarzenbach-the JETS' brave blend of angular rock, epic balladry and really cool keyboard noises front and center-as his guitar (or piano) gently weeps. Beautiful and sad? Absolutely. But Perfecting Loneliness is all the better for it. Massive selling band in the UK , expect major press coverage on all fronts!
John Cate Band : V CD on Blue Rose
The John Cate Band's fifth album is an excellent representation of their 'roots rock' sound, presented with the maturity and professionalism of a well-oiled machine. John Cate, who emanates from the Boston area, is an exceptional songwriter and singer in the American roots tradition, where hints of the vintage 60s folk music of Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie mix with the rock of Mick Jagger and John Mellancamp. Solid rockers and mellow rollers blend the modern sound of guitars and drums with the traditional styles and instruments of mandolin, lap steel and harmonica to create a fresh, but comfortable sound. "V" is produced by Rob Fraboni (Keith Richards, Bonnie Raitt, Rolling Stones).
Josef K : Crazy To Exist (Live) CD on LTM
The first ever live CD release from cult Scottish post-punk outfit Josef K, who split in 1981 after a string of classic recordings for the Postcard and Crepuscule labels. 20 tracks combining two complete gigs in April and August 1981. Includes 'Sorry for Laughing', 'Chance Meeting', 'It's Kinda Funny', 'Heaven Sent' and 'Fun 'n' Frenzy'. Mastered from original mixing desk tapes, booklet features full history and rare colour photos. 'Here you get the fullest sense of the band at their most serrated and angular, engaged in an always engaging struuggle to break out of their post-punk chrysalis' Uncut.
Jurassic 5 : Power In Numbers CD on Interscope/Universal
The follow-up to 2000’s superb Quality Control is as rich as its predecessor — possibly even more so. Full of thick groove, infectious beats and melodies and, above all, heavy-duty soul, Jurassic 5 approach hip-hop with a sense of maturity and respect that rivals the greats of so-called "conscious" rap. J5’s ability to tastefully mix personal and political lyrics with rap, funk, world beats, sexy grooves and even Nelly Furtado's vocals (her contribution on "Thin Line" is a jazzy Digable Planets-esque he said/she said) is truly skilled. As they chant on one song: "We’re humble, but don’t mistake us for some corny-ass group/What we do is try to give you what you ain’t used to." Cheers to that.
Kaia : Oregon .CD on Mr Lady
Long awaited new full length from mr lady records founder and butchies member kaia. This is her third full legnth, the record features mostly angsty lyrics and tender melodies, abstract lyrics and lullabies. Theres acoustic guitar, a splash of 80's keyboards, harmonica on one song, a hint of piano, fabulous percussion by melissa york and guest vocals and whistling by amy ray.
Karate : Some Boots CD on Southern
Excellent fifth album from Karate , recorded directly after their mammoth European tour in the first half of 2002, including a packed out, sold out show in London at 93 Feet East. This record builds on the jazzier elements of 'Unsolved' but does not ignore the more rocking sensibilities of the first three records. Karate plan on more European touring in early 2003. *Please note the CD includes one song more than the vinyl, necessary due to achieve the best quality of sound on the vinyl version. For Fans Of: The Minutemen, The Band, Gone, Soft Machine, Bitch Magnet, The Sorts, King Crimson, Beefeater
Kelso : Eat The Evidence CD on Probe Plus
Latest release on Liverpool label Probe Plus, the home of the legendary HALF MAN HALF BISCUIT, and released in the wake of their 'Editors Recommendation' EP(PP32CD). Kelso are a Liverpool based 4 piece band who were formed three years ago and have performed all over the North West including some prestigious support slots with bands such as JJ72. *What they say about Kelso: "Their hybrid of rock, pop, hip hop and soul is a lethal combination" - Wirral News Group, "Kelso are 100% representative of what is great about good music - songs with true meaning and tunes to die for" - Village Voice, NY. *And: "Sure to break through this year - their anthemic choruses, combined with radical lyrical content make Kelso ones to watch" - Itchy Media, Leeds, "Lyrical content that's often controversial, topical and always thought provoking" - Wirral Globe.
Kicker : Fivefortyfives CD on Track And Field
fivefortyfives” is just what it says on the tin: a collection of kicker’s five vinyl seven inch 45s, remastered and available on cd for the first time. Housing ex members of velocette, hood and comet gain, you'd be forgiven for thinking that kicker is a dream indie supergroup of sorts. But this band is worth far more than the sum of its equal parts. Each kicker song contains the mad drive of the city yet is coated in the melancholy of the sorrow of the unwanted. "the falling leaves", for example, is brilliant, possessed, emotion-fuelled and spiced in a glow of 60s kaleidoscopic garage pop played by the likes of ? And the mysterions, the castaways or even early inspiral carpets. Or "on your floor" which is replete with a melody to make you swoon, blush and smile, though not necessarily in that order. Meanwhile, "said and done" is mournful, anguished and lush, with a heart full of soul… i don't know what soul music is meant to mean but when i listen to kicker strange things happen. Something involving emotions, feelings, the desire to truly live and all that stuff. Life suddenly has a new sheen for three minutes. So i guess that's soul music. And this lp has nine other tracks just as good as these. All you have to do is turn on the cd, sit back, close your eyes and listen…
Kid 606 Vs Dalek : Ruin It CD on Ulftone
A collaboration just waiting to happen between good friends and ipecac labelmates kid606 and celebrated new jersey hiphop three piece dälek, known for there constant touring, highly gifted lyricism and stream of consciousness rhyming, as well as forward thinking bombsquad styled rythyms and big black inspired clusters of noise. A long time in the making this releases was conceived when dalek remixed/reinterpritated the kid606 song ³ruin it, ruin them,ruin yourself, then ruin me² off of the kid¹s seminal ³down with the scene² album breathing new life into it and giving all the parts back to kid606 for him to remix and back and forth until this ep was completed. If the swirling sax-like sounds of the original "ruin it, ruin yourself then ruin me," and faux-sitar processes don't defy your expectations, the gorgeous cd-only track, "vague recollection" will knock you flat with it's austere, distorted allusions to an overheated hammond organ. *ipecac¹s newest signee, dälek¹s full length is being released in august with a major promotional push, they have also released an ep on matador and there cri ically acclaimed debut ³negro, necro, nekros² on the gern Blandsten label. A brooding 35 minute collection of inspired collaborations and instrumental Jams ,all on the borders of experimentation and blunt anger fueled declarations.
Kid Dakota : So Pretty CD on chairkickers music
released by low’s label, chairkickers' music. Kid dakota founding members darren jackson (vocals, guitars, keys) and christopher mcguire (drum set, ice cube tray, percussion) create taut, intelligent precise, and complex songs about drug abuse, betrayal, loretta lynn, and russian novels. Recorded by alex oana (spymob), so pretty fuses knife-in-the-stomach guitars, howitzer gun drumming, and beautifully sung melodies. It is this improbable union that has inspired comparisons to such diverse artists as elliott smith, neutral milk hotel, jeremy enigk, the kinks, joegrushecky, built to spill, nirvana, pink floyd, and low. Zak sally of low joins kid dakota for the three new songs.
Killer Dwarfs : Reunion Of Scribes Live 2001 Cd on Bullseye
Power Hour favourites Killer Dwarfs reunited in 2001 for their first tour in years and this live CD documents the band's hometown performance. ROS is a mixed bag of hits like "Dirty Weapons" and "It Doesn't Matter." Although The Dwarfs hammer out the tunes efficiently, it's hard not to see that the material hasn't aged well. Oddly though, songs from their '86 release, Stand Tall, like the anthemic encore "Keep The Spirit Alive" that still manage to hold after all these years. Vocalist Russ Dwarf has retained that high-pitched wail. He has a penchant for between song rants littered with expletives that get a bit unnerving — like when he jokingly(?) refers to being intimate with a friend's mother. One question: Where the hell is "Heavy Mental Breakdown?"
Killerest Expression : Four Days That Shook The World CD on In At The Deep End
Eight track mini album from highly rated UK Punkers the 'Killerest Expression'. The Killerest Expression were formally known as The Buggers formed back in 1994. They played fast, upbeat music, saturated with energy & toured with Snuff, One Car Pile-Up, Southport, Capdown, Vanilla Pod etc Over the years the band settled into a deeper and more melodic sound & in January 2001 were voted one of the best unsigned bands in the Kerrang! readers poll. Their debut single 'Here Comes The Times' (April 2001) was Single Of The Week in Kerrang!. In March of 2002 THE KILLEREST EXPRESSION signed to ‘In At The Deep end Records’ a fast up and coming label in the punk/hardcore scene & now release this mini album.
Kings County Queens : Big Ideas CD on Rubric
Features players from God is My Co-Pilot and Herione Sheiks. "Country music in the slow and bittersweet tradition of a bygone era, the beautifully melancholy harmonies of Kings County Queens vocalists Chris Bowers and Daria Klotz speak with an authentic country loneliness..." -Ceative Loafing. Kings County Queens was born out of the pure love of pure country. From the band's first show at the summer-opening of Coney Island in May of 2000, where they debuted with a handful of Chris Bowers' originals and a mixed bag of covers, to sharing stages with the likes of the Waco Brothers, the band has progressively earned a reputation for winning over even the most urbane audiences and convincing country-music fans that there is life outside of Nashville. Using mostly acoustic arrangements and rich vocal harmonies, the band continues to mix old-time country music with quiet, heartbreaking originals. Their Rubric Record debut Big Ideas, produced by Jacques Cohen (Mercury Rev, Hopewell) was recorded at the Space Recording Studio in Poughkeepsie, NY.
Knockout : Perfecting Loneliness Cd on Fearless
Even though Searching For Solid Ground easily has some of the worst cover art of the year, Knockout have the type of sound (and looks) that could very well make them the next poster children of the emotional punk rock scene. They’re young, lightly pierced and tattooed (not enough to be a really bad influence) and their sound is about as threatening as a poodle with three legs barking at the postie delivering the mail. There’s nothing substantial to this music that takes everything bad about the contemporary pop-punk/emo scenes and packages it smoothly and effortlessly into something ready to market to the pre-teens, commercials, and quite possibly a guest appearance on Dawson’s Creek
Koester : High Highs The Low Lows CD on Pitch-a-tent
'The High Highs The Low Lows' is KOESTER's second release. Koester is Steve Koester, Alan Weatherhead, Miguel Urbiztondo, Tim Buckley & John Daniels. Steve was formerly with Punchdrunk & currently moonlights with Maplewood. Alan plays with SPARKLEHORSE & Maki. Miguel has hit drums for CROOKED FINGERS, Mary Timony & Maki. And John & Tim are the main songwriters behind MAKI, as well as veterans of the Blow Pops & Wobble Test. Time Out NY called Koester's first, 'Oh! Turpentine', a "powerful debut", CMJ said it was "right on", and Milk Magazine referred to it as "perfect alone-in-the-bar-at-the-end-of-the-night music." But if 'Turpentine' was Koester in black & white, 'High Highs' is Koester in technicolor, not just taking up where Turpentine left off, but pretty much just taking off. Written & produced by Steve Koester with Alan Weatherhead (Sparklehorse, Nina Persson, Clem Snide, Mary Timony), High Highs is not only a lyrical examination of the crystal-clear highs & the curb-kissing lows we all go through, but also a sonic exploration of the high-tech & the low-tech, the mechanical & the organic, the past's idea of the future & the future's past. . . or something like that. Reference points? Pink Floyd's Animals & Iggy Pop's Idiot, Leonard Cohen & Stereolab, 'Kid A' & the Brothers Gibb, black/white era Stranglers and whatever else you can find in there. PS. Koester rhymes with "Chester".
Sharron Kraus : Beautiful Twisted .CD on Camera Obscura
Drawing on diverse influences such as 60s folk legends Shirley Collins, Martin Carthy & Anne Briggs on the one hand & contemporary artists such as The Violent Femmes, Tom Waits, Nick Cave, Coil & the Swans on the other, Sharron Kraus creates timeless original folk music characterized by soil-rich vocals, fine acoustic guitar & banjo picking, & masterful visionary word craft. Her songs are populated by a carnival array of fatally charismatic characters & tell tales of enslavement, perversion, incest, obsession, death & various supernatural phenomena. Which has always been the palette of folk music, we suppose. File under : Dark folk, gothic, acoustic, singer-songwriter.
Ktb : All Clam In Dreamland CD on Truck
Once upon a time ktb (aka katharine bennett) sang about a tree. Once she took the tree song to the masses at the local village garden party, now known as truck festival, it was inevitable a career in pop music was in the wings. In june 2001, her cash strapped older brother joe promised her some time in his bands (goldrush) truck studio.joe acted as producer overseeing the contributions of his band mates g and garo. 'All calm in dreamland' is a collection of songs which explore the ideas and experiences of a young travelling mind, peppered with both humour and earnest thoughts, introducing the world to ktb (with goldrush).
Ladytron : Light&Magic CD on Emperor Norton/Outside
Like Miss Kittin and the Hacker, Ladytron were analog when analog wasn’t cool. With last year’s 604 album, the Liverpool-based quartet became poster children for the electro-pop revival. That said, they were working the minimalist blips and bleeps long before the scenesters crashed their party. Light&Magic is sure to be identified as yet another fine electroclash moment, what with its "Warm Leatherette" inspired opener, "True Mathematics." There are more organic moments, however, such as "Blue Jeans" and "The Reason Why," where Ladytron sounds like a real band. Interestingly, there’s a subversive tone to the album, most notably on the track "Seventeen" ("They only want you when you’re 17/When you’re 21, you’re no fun"). Taking the trend-setting music and media industries to task, "Seventeen" could be seen as a direct rebuttal to the hype machine that’s propped up Ladytron as the next big thing. In all, Light&Magic is a fine album, playing on 604’s monotone vocals and synths, but also adding a little bit of warmth to the rigid grooves. It may not be as uniformly sound, but it’s clearly the product of an evolving band
Lagwagon : Let's Talk About Leftovers CD on Fat Wreck Chords
This is a special album, basically because it will appeal to both old and new LAGWAGON fans. It contains out-takes and B-sides from all of the previous releases dating back to before their first record. They have also compiled all of the rare compilation songs that the band have done over the years, and included them, along with 7 brands new songs, 25 tracks in all!
Landing : Circuit CD on music fellowship
The quartet's hypnotic shows have been entrancing audiences across the mid-west and east coast, reminding - quietly - of the wonder to be found in dreamy washes of sound. This is a rare band that respects mood, understands dynamics, and just allows beauty to happen. Circuit is a weave of sound and a rush of gentle energies, wherein the male/female vocals are as integral as the interplay of instruments and effects. Within these saturated whorls of soft noise hide simple, heartfelt pop songs. Landing have toured with windy&carl three times in the last three years, and have played other shows with low, black heart procession, bardo pond, pinback, kinski, doug martsch, and are scheduled to play at terrastock 5 in boston, with sonic youth, acid mothers temple, bevis frond, six organs of admittance and many others.
Lano Places : Everyone Likes To Be Lonely (CD). on Rec
 "Everyone likes to be lonely", the debut album of Lano Places, has astonished the Norwegian Press. Lano Places combine the compositional strength of pop music with the sincerity of rock'n roll. Their chord progression and tonality can be compared with Coldplay. But reviewers have also recognized an attempt to reach the storytelling qualities of Belle and Sebastian and the inter-textual depth of John Lennon. "Everyone Likes To Be Lonely" is, if nothing else, a strong collection of songs. Recorded at home on an 8-track recorder. A definite grower from the Norwegian buzz band ....
Lanterna : Sands CD on Badman
The second release on Badman Records (home of Mark Kozelek etc.), by LANTERNA, an album of spacey, quiet, ambient, slo-core mood music. After releases on Parasol and on Rykodisc, 2001 saw Badman release the 'Elm Street' album which met with 4 star reviews. For "Sands", Henry Frayne's delayed guitar is augmented by utilizing drum loops and adding vocals which bring the songs' ethereal melodies to the forefront. In the right hands, a lot can happen to a man with a delay pedal, a wall of reverb, the passion to record a wide range of ambient space and a trusty guitar. At times, this mainly instrumental album seems to harken back to early psychedelic sonic washes a la Pink Floyd or dreamy Talk Talk ambience & sometimes forward to music that current songs can only hint at. In any case, it is the soundtrack to whatever movie your mind might conjure. "The Lanterna sound is ideal for a drive down some lonely highway late at night. It's a guitar sound that conjures up the soul of the night, not in a spooky way, but in portraying nighttime's quiet and empty spaces"
Large Professor : First Class CD on Matador
Go ahead, check the credits. Twelve years since Main Source's Breaking Atoms, he returns with ‘1st Class’, and it's vintage Large Professor: 16 tracks of first-class beats that any other MC would kill for, featuring old friends Nas, Q-Tip, Akinyele and Busta Rhymes. Wrapped around a relaxed beat and a choral melody on ‘In the Sun’, Tip hasn't sounded this comfortable since The Low End Theory. Nas returns to his Queensbridge roots on "Stay Chisel", but he's not the same old Nasty Nas - this is the grown-up version; he and LP sit on the stoop, trading verses and telling stories. Akinyele joins in, but it's fitting that he gets his own beat - he's leaning out the window, screaming, yelling and telling it his way. And Busta Rhymes takes his turn in ‘On’, with a beat that's as frenetic as the dreadlocked MC. One thing's for sure: you're not going to find another hip-hop album like it this year. And that's not just because Ja Rule's not on it, either…
Las Ketchup : Hijas Del Tomate Cd on Columbia/Sony
Ketchup is the ubiquitous bland sauce, a homogenous product that lacks any variety. Take a taste of every brand of ketchup you can find. Can you tell the difference? I didn't think so. Now, go grab a few jars of different salsas. Note the wide range of spices and flavours. Ketchup sucks, salsa rules. Say no to Ketchup. Go get some salsa!

SONDRE LERCHE Faces Down (Astralwerks/Virgin)

Norwegian teen prodigy Sondre Lerche’s debut full-lenghter sounds like the work of a well-schooled pro. An admitted student of the craftsmanship of Bacharach and Cole Porter, Lerche has modeled an album that sits somewhere between those great masters, swoony crooner Rufus Wainwright and Mutations-era Beck. With gentle beats purring away in the background, Lerche’s songs are simultaneously classic and current sounding — his soft, but confident voice bubbles with a timeless romanticism that’s hard to resist. With a rich group of collaborators that include honey-voiced singer Lillian Samdal and High Llamas mainman Sean O’Hagan (he takes care of the string arrangements), Lerche has successfully completed the rare feat of making a classic pop album that sounds utterly brand new.
Legendary Pink Dots : All The Kings Men CD on Roir
Early Legendary Pink Dots material mostly new/ unreleased & a few re-workings of songs from their earliest cassette-only releases (virtually unavailable in their 1980's form).
Lemon Jelly : Lost Horizons CD on XL
“What Lemon Jelly have done, by way of boundless enthusiasm and prodigious musicianship, is create a work, by 2002’s standards at least, of almost unparalleled beauty. If ‘Lost Horizons’ isn’t this year’s most transcendental melodic masterpiece then we are living in fortunate times indeed.” - Jockey Slut (cover feature) Aug 2002. To date, previous album Lemonjelly.ky has sold over 140,000 copies worldwide; for an album which was mainly fuelled by word of mouth, with no single, no video and no marketing involved, this is some achievement. 2002 and Lemon Jelly (a.k.a. Fred Deakin and Nick Franglen) return to bring some more happiness into our lives. The same rules apply - to create a package which has been lovingly compiled with attention taken to every tiny detail. The result is Lost Horizons, which is Lemon Jelly at their finest.. Travel is a recurring thread. From the slow, burning, seductive and footloose sounds of Ramblin’ Man to Return to Patagonia, which revisits the Yellow EPs’ Homage To Patagonia, and the first single Space Walk , inspired by the Apollo moon landings. You only need to look at the artwork which contrasts rural landscape against urban modernity in a night versus day setting to get the idea. Lost Horizons is a joyous and sanguine journey. Take Elements which mixes up hip-hop beats, jazz and loungecore against a warped barber shop quartet vocal. Then there’s Nice Weather For Ducks which is a tramp’s turbo-house fantasy trip, over an old nursery rhyme. Lost Horizons is a big, bold, warm thing. Dive in and lose yourself..The vinyl format comes as a sealed triple gatefold, double vinyl, with four page booklet .
Sondre Lerche : Faces Down Cd on Astralwerks/Virgin
Norwegian teen prodigy Sondre Lerche’s debut full-lenghter sounds like the work of a well-schooled pro. An admitted student of the craftsmanship of Bacharach and Cole Porter, Lerche has modeled an album that sits somewhere between those great masters, swoony crooner Rufus Wainwright and Mutations-era Beck. With gentle beats purring away in the background, Lerche’s songs are simultaneously classic and current sounding — his soft, but confident voice bubbles with a timeless romanticism that’s hard to resist. With a rich group of collaborators that include honey-voiced singer Lillian Samdal and High Llamas mainman Sean O’Hagan (he takes care of the string arrangements), Lerche has successfully completed the rare feat of making a classic pop album that sounds utterly brand new.
Lightbox Orchestra : First Contact! CD on Locust
First contact! Brings together highlights from nearly half a decade of recordings by an extended and ever changing superstar lineup of chicago jazz, punk and rock musicians under the tutelage of cellist leader fred lonberg-holm (peter brotzmann tentet, terminal four, anthony braxton). What you'll hear on this disc is an uproarious gathering of sonic jouissance featuring composer, songsmith and producer jim o'rourke (sonic youth, gastr del sol), laptop guitar cum electronics-whiz kevin drumm (mimeo), jeb bishop, guillermo gregorio, members of town and country, pillow, tv pow, and dozens of other bright lights from this city's creative gene pool on acoustic
Little Hell : Demonic Advisory Centre CD on Double Dragon
“Mixing a sub-Pixies howl with the suss of a less dislikeable Placebo and a large dose of Black Flag inspired sludge – SMART!” KKKK KerrangThey take to the road with THE EIGHTIES MATCHBOX B LINE DISASTER, VENDETTA RED and The BACKYARD BABIES for more “anti-mainstream ranting” …..8th October – Liverpool Masque ( with 80”s matchbox b line disaster), 9th October – Stockton Georgian theatre ( with 80”s matchbox b line disaster), 10th October- Hull Adelphi ( with 80”s matchbox b line disaster), 11th October LONDON – UNDERWORLD ( with Vendetta RED), 12th October – Cardiff Barfly ( with 80”s matchbox b line disaster), 13th October Mansfield Town Mill ( with 80”s matchbox b line disaster).
Little Hell : Everybodys Cursed CD on Double Dragon
Little Hell have recently finished playing dates with Rival Schools, and are planning a full-on onslaught of the UK’s venues later this year…in the mean time they release a new single. Album ‘DEMONIC ADVISORY CENTRE’ is released on the 21ST October and has already been hailed by Metal hammer as “the sounds of a punked up Marilyn Manson crossed with the smacked up ramblings of Jane’s Addiction” . C list at xfm 5 weeks up front. Full support on air from Zoe Ball. XFM Rock show session repeated on 9th October.NME review week before release, GREAT NME Live review to run soon, Kerrang review, Kerrang Feature, Expect loads of fanzine action, Full student mayhem expected
Loaded : Dark Days CD on Locomotive
Brand new album from the former guns n’ roses bass player duff mckagan. Duff handles vocals and guitar in loaded and is joined by drummer geoff reading (new american shame / green apple quickstep), bass player g.stuart dahlquist (goatsnake) and guitarist dave kushner (danzig / dave navarro). After leaving guns n’ roses duff returned to college and stuidied to become a business major (!) As well as joining steve jones in the neurotic outsiders. ‘dark days’ features 12 songs of sleazy and impassioned rock n’ roll . The band undertake a european tour during july
Local Rabbits : This Is It Here We Go CD on Brobdingnagian
Montreal's LOCAL RABBITS make challenging and sophisticated music that is as entertaining as it is creative. They have carved a die-hard cult fanbase for themselves in Canada. The band got a high-profile introduction to the Montreal music scene when Halifax pop kings SLOAN showcased the young band during tours and signed them to their own label Murderecords, where they released two albums. Their dynamic new record 'This Is It Here We Go' was produced by Don Kerr (Ron Sexsmith, Rheostatics). Reviews: "spirally gleaming pop music… the gleeful Rabbits accomplish musically what their former bosses and mentors, Sloan, have been struggling to create for the last few years. Local Rabbits make nonsense out of much of the '70s by eclipsing all the unfortunate musical errors of the time Local Rabbits recognize that the Kinks and Stones were more substantial before their careers became waterlogged with ineffectual and forgettable stadium anthems" - Fast Forward. "This Is It Here We Go eventually gets you. The endearing, schoolboy-ish falsetto of Ben Gunning and the cool, steady vocals of Pete Elkas will always coax you into singing along. There are good harmonies and the usual intelligent, wordy, autobiographical lyrics. This is for Steely Dan fans who've run out of Steely Dan records to buy" - Chart Attack. "Damn that's the best record I've heard so far this year… 'This is It' is almost unbearably cool. It's at once a homage to and progression from the coolest mid -'70s rock" - The Coast
Jason Loewenstein : At Sixes And Sevens CD on Domino
First full length solo LP from key member of US indie outfit Sebadoh. 'At Sixes And Sevens' displays Jason’s trademark emotive sense of songwriting realism - flirting between inner turmoil and a positivist outlook on life, rich with both impassioned lyrics, crunching guitar and some of the catchiest pop melodies that have ever crushed your cranium. One multi-instrumentalist man, one reel to reel 8 track, one fantastically great DIY LP to capture the imagination. “The Sebadoh bassist aims for the heart with garage gems that exceed all expectations” Mojo. Full tour forthcoming in November
Logh : Every Time A Bell Rings An Angel Get His Wings CD on Deep Elm
New DEEP ELM >>LOGH filters the finest elements of indie rock, poetic tone and intelligible songwriting through a Nordic perspective and into a record that pulses, swells and sighs with effortless synergy. Without ever leaving the grips of simple pop, EVERY TIME A BELL RINGS flirts with lo-fi elements - lightly brushed snares, subtle guitar strumming, droning bass lines and wispy, aching vocals - but with more range, expression and genuine feeling than most bands can muster. Music laden with so much texture, atmosphere and emotion is rare. The stark sadness may be ghostly familiar as one of LOGH's greatest strengths is their ability to make their images sing. But as heavy as your heart may grow, the record uplifts you...not through eleven separate songs, but rather one intricate blueprint of earnest emotion. Incredibly well performed and overflowing with desperate beauty. Unreleased song "Guided Tour Of A Dead Man's House" on The Emo Diaries, Chapter Eight. Recommended If you like: Mogwai,Songs: Ohia, Idaho, American Analog Set, or Yo la Tengo.
Lo Hi : Say It More CD on Tiger Style
New York City's Boss Hog was coming off a 1996 tour when their drummer, Hollis Queens, met fellow drummer Martin Owens of Speedball Baby, and the two instantly conspired to form Lo-Hi. After several years of holding down the beat in Boss Hog, Queens stepped up to the mic, strapped on a guitar, and proved that she is a compelling musician and front woman in her own right. With Owens behind the traps, Lo-Hi moved forward in 1997, releasing their first record, Kind Of Like A Feel Good Thing, on California garage punk mavens Sympathy for the Record Industry and played numerous shows on the East Coast with such artists as the Delta 72, the Make Up, Mooney Suzuki, The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion etc. After Boss Hog's 2000 world tour in support of White Out-a record highlighted by Queens' vocals on the title track- Lo-Hi returned to action once again. Two new members were added in 2001: guitarist and fellow Boss Hog alumnus Jens Jurgensen, and Bassist-biochemist Justin Holub. Jens and Justin have added to the band's already-considerable charm and musical history, but more importantly, they have transformed Lo-Hi from a stripped-down, R&B-influenced novelty act to a full fledged rock & roll band. This new record is a gigantic step forward for the band as it expands Lo-Hi's garage punk roots into an eclectic mix of rock, punk, garage, soul and pop, all with the sass you have come to expect for these NY rock veterans. * Lo-Hi features Hollis Queens of Boss Hog, stepping out from behind the drums and taking the mic in hand. * This is their second album - the first, Kind of Feel Like a Good Thing, was released on Sympathy for the Record Industry. * Other members of Lo-Hi include: Martin Owens (Speedball Baby), Jens Jurgensen (Boss Hog) and Justin Holub (Boss Hog). For Fans Of: The White Stripes, Boss Hog, Jon Spencer, The Bell Rays, Delta 72, the mAke up
Lollies : Taste CD on fortune and glory
Canadian trio The Lollies (now based in London) with their debut album of catchy bubblegum pop melodies and classic 60s girl group harmonies, mixed with an indie garage punk attitude. Every song is a trashy, tinny lesson in no-frills punk pop, with rapier wit lyrics - The Ronettes/Shangri-las played by The Ramones. From the label that brought you the Ant from Hefner solo albums. "Head bang those pigtails! Jangle those bangles! The quiet-grrrl revolution continues with the pan-American Lollies and their sugary, Hole-with-humour garage guitar pop" - The Source. "Shangri-Las, Kenickie, Rezillos, B52S, all present and correct, frugging in white PVC Courreges boots to that luvverly Farfisa boogie beat" - Careless Talk Costs Lives. For fans of Sleater Kinney, Kenickie and Talulah Gosh.
Longstone : Archive: 03 CD on Ochre Records
The third release in the ochre archive series. Double cd featuring all longstone’s non-ochre, vinyl and non-album tracks. Includes tracks that have appeared on other labels. Includes ‘convex structure’ parts 1 to 3 and an exclusive sonic boom remix of the track as well as the ‘live in new york’ 10” and tracks featuring bunnymen guitarist will sergeant. Longstone to date have released albums on ochre records, space age recordings & blackbean & placenta. The ‘static’ mini-cd on ochre received 4 out of 5 in dj magazine and was described as inhabiting the world between intelligent thought provoking electronica and twisted motorik melodies. The second album ‘auto??Geneous” received 9 out of 10 in future music. Longstone have often been compared to autechre, kriedler, cluster and kraftwerk.
Lost Weekend : New Religion CD on Frontiers
New third release from the u.k. Based classic rock outfit. Ufo meets lizzy style quality hard rock produced and recorded by mike dmitrovic and murray daigle of emerald rain. The band will be touring the u.k. And the making their live continental debut later in 2002. Features and advertising will appear in fireworks and powerplay. The album is scheduled for a half page advert in the next issue of classic rock.
Love Life : Here Is Night CD on Jag Jaguwar
(…brothers, here the birds burn) featuring ex-members of jaks, universal order of armageddon and the great unraveling, baltimore's love life create dark, twisted operatic-rock for the rest of us. Their music is the evil carnival without the kitsch, the dance of the bull-fight without the sword. It co-mingles the sacred with the profane. Chock full of odd time signatures, driving bass, spooky arrangements and katrina ford's uniquely sinister, guttural voice and lyrics, the music of love life is unlike anything else. If reference points are what you need, think the birthday party, thalia zadek's uzi, early pere ubu, super genius-era circus lupus and bauhaus all mashed together and then finely distilled. Not for the faint of heart.
Low : trust Cd on rough trade
Never ones to cause a commotion, Low have always been, to say the least, a most downbeat of acts. Harnessing the rare ability of mixing up chugging guitars amidst deeply reverberating bass and plaintive, angelic vocals, the three-piece are still able to keep the end-result at a volume only just about audible. Yet, with their latest work to date, ‘Trust’ – as worked on with Tchad Blake of Tom Waits notoriety – a previously-unknown up-tempo spikiness rears its head for the first time.
Such a progression follows an already flourishing time in music – which has, release-wise, included a series of critically-acclaimed singles and limited-edition odds ‘n’ ends, namely comprising 2001’s compelling ‘Things We Lost In The Fire’ album, a Christmas-LP, and a recent reworking of The Smiths’ devastatingly mournful ‘Last Night I Dreamt Somebody Loved Me’. Evidently, at such a stage in their career, especially when considered alongside the band’s worldwide reputation and accessibility to selling out thousand-seater theatres, a change of formula would seemingly be the last thing needed to further invigorate their career.
But, let’s not get too carried away. Essentially, a change of direction in this case means one particularly jaunty tune, in the shape of ‘Canada’. Featuring Alan Sparhawk’s unashamedly-US croak, a drum-pattern last seen flaunting itself within The Strokes’ ‘Modern Age’, and a helplessly infectious bass-line, you’ll find yourself contemplating just what kind of substances Low have taken in order to get themselves so deliriously High.
However, as with such narcotics, the effect lasts for too soon. The advancing ‘Candy Girl’ is as broodingly eerie as anything else within the band’s repertoire: the pounding drums, all-too soothing vocals and clanging guitar serving as a truly intoxicating listen. The motion-picture grandeur that greets the opening of ‘Tonight’ is just as epic, the ensuing notes almost paralleling Radiohead’s more aloof moments, with Mimi Parker’s dynamic vocal-lilt hooking you through to its ease-out ending. Such a dazzlingly breath-taking, albeit low-key, effect is pretty much existent throughout the entire works, the utter darkness of ‘The Lamb’, chilling folk of ‘In The Drugs’ and deceptively cheery ‘La La La Song’ proving as strong as anything already within the ole’ back-catalogue.
So, although the reflective, understated threesome may not still overtly nor consistently partake within stirring the aforementioned commotion, even after all these years, they still establish that they’re more than capable of allowing us listeners to arise our own one over them. And, suitable to their latest outing’s title, let’s hope and trust them to stay the same.
Low Frequency in Stereo : Low Frequency In Stereo CD on rec90
The Low Frequency in Stereo can maybe be put under a sort of lo-fidelity/post-rock category. Their songs are most often laid-back and instrumental, with groovy drums, heavy organic bass and a knife-edging guitar. This is all spiced up with samples and keyboard, also using vocal on some songs. Press: "TLFIS play intelligent Post-Rock. They suck you in to the music and holds you there for a long, long time. It`s the band with the biggest potential tonight. Their potential is so big that it is scary." - Puls. "These 4-piece band from Norway named The Low Frequency In Stereo play a magnificent style of music. This is an instrumental ensemble with class that mix the groove between krautrock and postrock, sublime stoner and psychadelica. Marvellous keyboards with low frequencies, after a while they come to a climax with post hardcore and finishes with surf better than Manta Ray. A unique experience!" - Bilbao newspaper
Lucky Bishops : Grimstone CD on Woronzow
The second release on the Bevis Frond's label Woronzow for The Lucky Bishops. Woronzow became aware of The Lucky Bishops in 1997, when a tape landed on their doormat. Instantly they were hooked by the glorious melodies, the tight four part harmonies and the immaculate playing, and released the first album to rave reviews: "Dorset's best-kept secret…tight commercial psychedelic pop a la late sixties Beatles or Beach Boys" - 3*** Uncut, "This stunning 'classic pop' debut offers so much - invention, variety, sophistication and deviously infectious hooks" - Mojo. "Great music, period!" - Classic Rock. And now another album of their neo-psychedelic pop rock. The influences that come across on 'Grimstone' range from The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Spirit and Todd Rundgren, to more current folk such as Jellyfish and the superb Cotton Mather
Luna : Close Cover Before Striking CD on Jetset Records
Featuring five Luna compositions, two cover versions ("Waiting on a Friend" by the Rolling Stones, and "Neon Lights" by Kraftwerk), and two music videos. Track listing: 1 Astronaut 2 Waiting On A Friend 3 Teenage Lightning 4 Drunken Whistler 5 The Alibi 6 New Haven Comet 7 Neon Lights. Plus videos for "Lovedust" and "1995
Lupine Howl  : Bar At The End Of The World : CD on Beggars Banquet
Lupine Howl were formed out of the ashes of Spiritualized, in January 1999. Sean Cook, lead 'Howler explains: "I see Lupine Howl as capable of doing whatever we feel like doing. There's no strict philosophy behind what kind of music we're going to make. In Spiritualized, the aesthetic was a lot stricter. We had all these layers of minimal sound with this opiated blueprint over the top. I was getting bored of it, it was always love songs. I just wanted to do something that was a bit more out there". Recorded over the last year with fellow 'Howlers Mike Mooney and Jon Mattock, 'The Bar At The End Of The World' is a beautiful string laden country tinged psych record. It's also without doubt their finest recording to date, showing a band relaxed in their approach to songwriting.
"Virtue and Vice are negated by the grave, but as long as you got a grave you got somewhere to go. After signing off from life it's just possible to see both your impotence and your power. Wecan be pathetic and beautiful but when we become proud we are often succeeded by the weak and the lean and the low. I'm confused about most things but one thing I do know is that I'm clearly f*cked but at least I'm clear about that. I hope there is a bar at the end of world so that at least, when I get there, I can get a drink" - Sean Cook
Madness  : Our House: Best Of
Billed as a 'London love story', 'Our House' is a brand new musical featuring the music of the original Nutty Boys, Madness. As frontman Graham 'Suggs' McPherson explains: "We've always been theatrical without understanding theatre. I think our songs, in terms of the theatre, have become timeless and I have been really excited watching this show develop". As well as featuring two all new songs written by Madness, the show is full of the band's greatest musical numbers - including 'Baggy Trousers', 'It Must Be Love', 'Driving In My Car', 'Embarrassment' and many, many more - all collected here on 'Our House - The Original Music Of Madness'.
Magic Drive : Whats The Beef? :CD on Knife Fighting Monkey
What’s The Beef? is the long-awaited debut album from the group Magicdrive. The sound of the album is an eclectic mix of pop, prog, garage and metal, held together with killer tunes – a bit like King Crimson being kicked in by Elvis Costello with the Beach Boys holding his jacket. Alt.prog at it’s finest. Magicdrive released their debut single Had To Be You on Fierce Panda label in 1995 before signing to Fontana. ‘On The Soft’ was the very first XFM Single Of The Week. Bang 2 Rights and the well-received EP’s for the label Lithium - Hotel Transatlantique and Grand Hotel - followed. "Magicdrive are really trying to cram pop history in all its entirety into one song. It doesn’t get any cooler than that.
Maher Shalal Hash Baz : Maher On Water CD on Geographic
Free thinking Japanese phenomenon & the inspiration behind the Pastel’s Geographic label release their latest material. Maher Shalal Hash Baz are legendary for releasing the beautiful 83 song set, ‘Return Visit To Rock Mass’, which took three years to complete, and is one of the most collectable Japanese records of all time. From The Wire magazine tracking them down and introducing them to the West they followed with Geographic’s ‘From A Summer To Another Summer (An Egypt To Another Egypt)’, which garnered an absolutely incredible response. Now ‘Maher On Water’ introduces a new concept, Blues De Jour, whereby band leader Kudo will reflect his feelings of the day in whatever fragments of song come to mind, sketches of where the Maher sound is about to go. “Opener “Stone on the River” is one of the most disarmingly beautiful pop songs...like Joe Byrd’s United States of America relocated to a Japanese commune this set radiates with painstaking, deliberately ‘imperfect’ beauty” - The Wire“ . Very very strong support from John Peel (radio 1) who became a massive fan during the tour.
Jesse Malin  : Fine Art Of Self Destruction
Jesse Malin is a native New York singer/songwriter. 'The Fine Art Of Self Destruction' is his stunning debut album. Produced by Ryan Adams (who also plays guitar), this is a gloriously retro rock-infected outing that has already drawn comparisons from everyone from Neil Young, Lou Reed, Paul Westerburg, through to Bruce Springsteen and Joe Strummer. Mixed by Carl Granville (U2, Counting Crows), 'The Fine Art Of Self Destruction' also features Melissa Auf De Maur (SmashingPumpkins/Hole) on bass and backing vocals.
'The best album anyone has made this year' - Adam Duritz, Counting Crows
Malory : Outerbeats .CD on Clairecords
For fans of Slowdive, shoegaze, dreampop, etc. Malory picks up where they left off on their debut - and takes things about 1000 steps beyond. They retain the brilliant sheets of effected guitars, drawing comparisons to the unmistakable gorgeous guitar work of Slowdive. But they also add a subtle electronic touch to this record with samples and chill beats (in addition to a live drummer) that makes Outerbeats deeper and even more bewitching than one could hope for. Subtle electronics, wonderful male/female vocal interplay, and ebbing & flowing guitars.
Manganese : Lo Fi Fo Fum .CD on Mint Blue
The debut album from Glasgow newcomers MANGANESE. There is a full UK tour planned for Summer 2002 with dates to be announced following the release of the single. As part of the warm up Manganese supported the The Cosmic Rough Riders at Glasgow's Tron Theatre recently and are already being hotly tipped and enjoying regular airplay on Radio 1 Session Scotland and Beat 106 Beatscene. Manganese have also covered 'Trouble' for Eagle Record's forthcoming Frankie Miller tribute release.
Manic Street Preachers  : Forever Delayed: Gt Hits: 2cd: Ltd
Drawing together the best of the Manic's six multi-platinum selling albums - 'Generation Terrorists', 'Gold Against The Soul', 'The Holy Bible', 'Everything Must Go', 'This Is My Truth Tell Me Yours' 'Know Your Enemy' - 'Forever Delayed - The Greatest Hits' provides the first truly comprehensive anthology of one of the finest bands ever to emerge from the valleys of Wales. This outstanding collection features 18 singles and two newly recorded songs, including 'There By The Grace Of God' and 'Door To The River' (speaking to NME, Nicky Wire described 'There By The Grace Of God' as: "Enjoy The Silence' [by Depeche Mode] meets 'A Design For Life' - there's a very epic quality to it". 'Forever Delayed' also includes three singles that have never featured on a Manics album before - 'Motown Junk', 'Suicide Is Painless' and 'The Masses Against The Classes'.
This limited edition includes a bonus CD of remixes.
Manifesto Jukebox : Remedy CD on Byo
New release from this classic punk rock label, BYO, and this one is an instant winner. MANIFESTO JUKEBOX from Finland are kicking up quite a storm in the US and have already turned heads over here too. Definitely will appeal to the Fracture zine readers and such like and they’ve been described as revolutionary rock with social and political lyrics, musically like a mix of HOT WATER MUSIC and HUSKER DU, lovely!
Dayna Manning : Shades CD on EMI
Strike this Stratford, Ontario-born singer/songwriter off the M.I.A. files. It’s been five years since her debut, Chapter 1, and much has changed in Manning’s life — okay, she’s through with wearing braces and her chirpy nasal vocals aren’t as piercing. But more importantly, Manning has taken her folk-cum-country further into adult contemporary circles, with more hushed vocals and a glossy production. On tracks like "Miracle," "Normal" and a reworked version of "Walk On The Moon" she digs deep into soft rock the elders would appreciate (read anything that ain’t loud ‘n’ abrasive). The glossiness, sadly, puts a damper on what would otherwise be a close facsimile of those ‘70s singer-songwriter albums where the four-chords-per-song rule is often broken (notably "Heather") and not every song sounded the same.
Eric Martin : I'm Goin' Sane CD on Frontiers
Brand new solo album from the former mr big vocalist. On ‘i’m going sane’ martin explores a heavier and darker side to his songwriting while retaining his trademark melodic edge. The songs on the album are co-written with jack blades (aerosmith / damn yankess) and andre pessis (mr. Big / the storm). The european version features two exclusive bons tracks.
J Mascis : Free So Free CD on City Slang
The end finally came in 1997. 14 years after they first emerged from the backwoods of Amherst, Massachusetts, blasting out a new blueprint for US underground rock, Dinosaur Jr were shut down by their laconic frontman J MASCIS. It was MASCIS who introduced the US hardcore scene to guitar solos, and it was MASCIS who – alongside The Pixies – laid the foundations from which grunge was later to blossomAnd now he returns with a new solo album. It is safe to say that FREE SO FREE is a concept album; revolving around J’s new found passion for skydiving. In fact many of the songs on the album were written mid air. “There’s something about reaching terminal velocity that really helps you open up,” j says. “The whole freedom idea sorta evolved out of that, and also some of the playing I was doing with Ron and Scott Asheton (The Stooges). Those guys have some real special notions about freedom.” With a bitching burst of ass-rockin’ first song Freedom sets the tone of this album perfectly. The lyrics are clearly about the emotional high of J’s first parachute jump – taking off into the atmosphere, tension building as the door opens, then bursting into the blankness of clouds. Fourth track Bobbin plays with the concept further. We bob not for apples. We bob not as thread. We bob on the curtain of life’s holy dread. Marc Bolan (especially the tubby, later version) would never dare to stand on the lip of a planes exit door. Void or no void. On the other hand Jeff Lyne might say ‘Go for it.”.
Maserati : Language Of Cities CD on Kindercore
A new member of the Kindercore family, MASERATI delivers a beautiful, dynamic, instrumental masterpiece. Yet another of the Athens GA experimentalists, Maserati picked up where bands like Tortoise, Macha, and Labradford left off with complex, warmly textured instrumental music straying from the confines of rock to explore the ambient, jazz, and even modern classical traditions. The four piece of Coley Dennis (guitar), Steve Scarborough (bass), Phil Horan (drums), and Matt Cherry (guitar) first recorded and self-released '37:29:24', a moody blend of space rock expansiveness and scatter-bursts of Slint-like aggression. In 2002, they met again in producer Andy Baker's studio to record 'The Language of Cities' for Kindercore. The eight-song album continues their exploration of emo-tinged instrumental rock, best exemplified in the track "The Language," a seven-minute plus opus of sustained cymbal build ups, churning guitar, and John McEntire-style fills. From beautiful, quiet drones, to full-on rocked out breakdowns, Maserati are masters of their sound. Like an instrumental version of U2 (circa 1985) with punk rock roots - precise, beautiful
Matt Pond Pa : The Nature Of Maps Cd on Polyvinyl
Playing in near obscurity and signed to a relatively unknown record label, Matt Pond’s group, Matt Pond PA, always puts out albums of pure pop bliss — most often accompanied by full string and horn sections. The Nature Of Maps’ opener, "Fairlee," soars to the heavens, with Pond’s vocals tinged with a sense of urgency. Highlights include "Closer," which is what a Lou Reed-fronted Smiths song would have sounded like and "Summer Is Coming," which takes the Death Cab For Cutie formula and layers a gorgeous string section over it. It’s a shame Pond’s name isn’t as known as Elliott Smith’s since the latter’s fans would fully embrace the former.
Max Tundra : Mbgate CD on Domino
Mastered By Guy At The Exchange’ follows on from Max Tundra’s 2000 debut album ‘Some Best Friend You Turned Out To Be’. An album that must be heard to be believed and streets ahead of any of his peers Max, aka Ben Jacobs enlists the help of friends & family (such as sister Becky on vocal duties) to craft an album that eschews influences and pastiche references from artists like Richie Hawtin to the Housemartins. There’s even a rousing Chas N Dave style knees up at the climax of future single ‘Cabasa’ to warm the cockles of any music enthusiast’s heart. “Great Electronica” Laurent Garnier, “Refreshingly risque old chap!” Pressure Drop, “I can see people freaking for this” Mixmaster Morris are just some of the enthusiastic reactions received at Domino Towers
M C Mabon : Mia Non CD on Ankstmusik
Follow up to the hugely acclaimed 'Hunt For Meaning' M C MABON mainman Gruff Meredith wrongfoots everyone again with a sixteen track Welsh language collection. M C Mabon is essentially a one man band fronted by the hyper talented Gruff Meredith. A one time member of politico-hip-hop rappers TYSTION. The debut album 'Mr Blaidd', released in early 2000, charted several musical landscapes - from punk, rock, rap to pastoral & electro funk. Appearances for the John Peel show & 'Session In Wales' Radio 1 preceded the 2nd album 'The Hunt For Meaning' - a genuinely eclectic & innovative album that picked up rave press across the board. (including The Independent, MOJO, NME & was the Evening Standard's album of the week) 'Nia Non' is a 16 track Welsh language album created with sparse beats, acoustic piano and guitars - a healthy mix of contributors and a somewhat
Meanwhile Back In Communist Russsia : Indian Ink CD on Truck
Mbicr's debut album of last year, 'indian ink' is a staggering statement of intent from a band whose live outings up to that point had careered from the sublime to the shambolic. Dark, desolate and beautifully crafted, layers of guitar and synthesizer noises provided a wonderfully bleak backdrop for vocalist emily gray's paradoxically deadpan and hysterical monologues. Such a mix of childlike fear, passionate frustration and alternately ambient and venomous noise conjured up magical images of lydia lunch fronting mogwai. " a satisfying moodscape of swooshing boards of canada electronica, intense sonic youth-like crashing, textured guitar work, and bitter spoken monologues"
Mean Red Spiders : Still Life Fast Moving CD on Teenage Usa
From Teenage USA Recordings, the new Mean Red Spiders album. The band's third record is their most engaging and mature work to date. With a new clarity of arrangement, these songs are imbued with a melancholic, baroque-pop sensibility. Accordions, glockenspiels and moogs wash and soar over signature guitars, melodic bass and expressive percussion. The group's sound has evolved into a unique distillation of their diverse and ranging influences. Track Listing: 1. First And Only, 2. Advance to Illinois, 3. Beaconsfield, 4. Chinese Wall, 5. Declaration, 6. Turn Walk Away, 7. The New Nostalgia, 8. My Soul To Keep, 9. They Only Met Once, 10. Awkward Over Coffee, 11. First And Only
Measures : Universe Is Mine CD on Radiotone
The nu-retro sound of this debut from the measures has already gained plays on xfm and london live. The band are also recording a live session for xfm. Guitars, songs, energy - think the stone roses played by the who featuring the beach boys with a dose of user friendly psychedelia.the single was produced in the band's london studio and comes backed with the rambling tension of random song and a through-the-hedge-forwards reworking of universe entitled pure energy.
Mecca Normal : Family Swan CD on Kill Rock Stars
Brand new full length from mecca normal, in these accounts of family tension, details trigger Memories, giving listeners a new vantage point from which to view their history. Specific and personal, The adult does the remembering, as perspective shifts back to the child. The family swan is powerful And dangerous - anger, pain and funny recollections are allowed to surface. The ability to express Oneself creatively is an essential part of being human, not a luxury to be earned or worshipped. On Previous albums they wrote, recorded, then toured. For the family swan they decided to take a year To work on the songs, tour the new material, and record at the end. Produced by dave doughman of Swearing at motorists. Mecca normal is not just an underground rock duo. Catch mecca normal in Nightclubs, art galleries and classrooms combining their music, with art and literary endeavors. Music: mecca normal is the voice of jean smith and the guitar of david lester
Mega Super Altra : Back To Take Another Bow CD on Jump Up
This Chicago based power trio's new release is a 9-song follow up to their 1999 debut "Power Pop Art". Heralded by Europe based Scootering Magazine "as good, and in some cases better than anything around during the '79 Mod revival". Revolver USA described their songs in this way " ...quick changes, starts, stops, clever lyrics and irresistible melodies". A heaping helping of vintage Farfisa and horn arrangements dance through the songs - these rich musical compositions hold true to the 2 minute 50 second pop standard in classic style. For fans of: The Strokes, Odd Numbers, Phobes, The Pills, The Get Set, Ted Leo/Chisel, The Shins, Detour Records
Meligrove band : Let It Grow Cd on Endearing/Ductape
The Meligrove Band could very well be Toronto’s finest potential heir to Sloan’s pop rock throne. Having started the band when they were barely legal, the Meligroves are now as old as the Sloans were when it all started for them. Their latest offering, Let It Grow, certainly shows the band is on its way. Catchy to the point of shamelessness, the album is fixated on ‘60s sunny pop like The Beach Boys and The Monkees ("Now Look What You’ve Done" and "Check Your Messages"), with nods to mod rock and power pop. Time will tell whether or not they are able to create a sound that’s all their own. Let them grow, indeed.
Merzbow : Merzbeat CD on Important Records
Merzbeat stands in stark contrast to all releases in merzbow's post-analog, digital laptop-era.containing over 50 minutes of brand new aggressive, psychedelic, organic, analog beat oriented merzbow compositions,. Kid 606 called merzbeat "one of the greatest thing he (merzbow) has ever done." Merzbeat includes a cover of the rare highway robbery song "promotion man" the first pressing of merzbeat also has a hidden remix of amlux by jack dangers of meat beat manifesto.
Micevice : Stop Here: Love Store CD on Homesleep
MICEVICE is band of Giovanni Ferrario, better known as the producer of a bunch of big Italian bands and member of Hugo Race's SEPIATONE, but also one of the coolest and most expressive Italian songwriters in the recent years. Micevice music is full of the attitude and charisma we have grown to expect from the likes of Swervedriver, or Lou Reed or Nick Cave's best works. "Stop Here: Love Store" is a great collection of fantastic rock songs. Featuring Hugo Race and Sepiatone
Malcolm Middleton : 5 14 Fluoxytine Seagull Alcohol CD on Chemical Underground
Malcolm Middleton comprises one half of Scottish misery legends Arab Strap. During Autumn/Winter 2001 he felt a wee bit down and had to write some songs. He then recorded a 10 track acoustic album which Chemikal Underground later asked him to transform into something more. The result was his debut solo album ‘5:14 fluoxytine seagull alcohol john nicotine’. With a little help from friends Aidan Moffat (Arab Strap), Jenny Reeve (Eva) and Barry Burns (Mogwai) he has made a record that can easily be described as "good". To date, Malcolm has made a handful of appearances - all north of the border. Most notable was a recent appearance at Woodside Social Club, a traditional working men's club. An audience was gob-smacked by the pithy songs. Furthermore, Malcolm has just completed shows with James Yorkston. Malcolm will play three shows in August as part of the "One man's home is another man's hell..." tour; the tour takes in just three cities and the bill features Sophia (Robin Proper-Sheppard/Will Foster), Malcolm Middleton and Kristofer Astrom. The dates are: August 6: London - Water Rats Theatre, 7: Glasgow – Barfly, 8: Stockholm – Kagelbanan. Malcolm will be touring further towards the end of the year before returning to the studio with Aidan to finish the 5th Arab Strap studio album.
Midwest : Town And Country CD on Homesleep
New from Italian label HOMESLEEP (home of Yuppie Flu, now signed to XL). This is the debut album from MIDWEST, a really young combo (21 years old) from Varese. They have caught the attention of some European music magazines without releasing anything, just with their demo! One of the freshest sounds you'll hear: mellotron, Wurlitzer organs, acoustic guitars, banjos, harmonium and percussion to build catchy indie-folk songs somewhere between Grandaddy, Califone, Red Red Meat and Nick Drake.
Milemarker : Satanic Versus CD on Jade Tree
Hot on the heels of their Jade Tree debut album, Anaesthetic, (which the New York Times named as one of its top underground releases of 2001) MILEMARKER are back with a six-song mini album/maxi EP showing that high-velocity progress that is MILEMARKER. Half of Satanic Versus was recorded in Chicago with Steve Albini (NIRVANA, PIXIES, PJ HARVEY) at monolithic Electrical Audio, three songs deliver on the promise of the live shows, bombastic heaviness, drone epics, flailing anthems and polemics aplenty. The flipside is the three songs the band self-recorded, three various and sundry Electro-jams, alternately recalling the precision and coldness of KRAFTWERK and the crunktastic party-vibe of "Around the World in a Day" era PRINCE AND THE REVOLUTION.
Miles Apart : Storyboard .CD on Boss Tuneage
Formed from the ashes of Eversore, Italy's premier pop-punk band of the 90's The Miles Apart have come up with the goods on 'Storyboard', their second album and first for by Boss Tuneage. Whilst most of their countrymen spend their time trying to emulate the Ramones, Queers and Screeching Weasel, The Miles Apart tread a very different path, perfecting perfect soaring harmony driven emo-pop-punk, displaying a mixture of influences akin to the likes of Jimmy Eat World and Saves The Day through to late 80s UK pop-punk legends The Senseless Things & Mega City Four. The band will also play at the Boss Tuneage all day festival at The Verge in Kentish town, London on October 26th as part of their second UK tour.'Without a doubt, the finest band in Italy right now'
Rhett Miller : The Instigator Cd on ElektraWarner
Former Old 97 Rhett Miller’s debut is an unassuming little record that, if your taste runs to the singer/songwriter ilk, may very well become your current favourite record. Miller sings of relationships, but it’s not all lovey, girly shit (though "Four-Eyed Girl" may be the greatest ode to geek love around). While it’s mostly about the voice, Miller is wise enough to surround himself with musicians that’ll present him in the best possible light. So, "Point Shirley" features guitar and vocals by Robyn Hitchcock. "Our Love" and "Come Around" has drums by Josh Freese (Vandals, A Perfect Circle) and Jim Keltner (who has provided the beats for everyone from Elvis Costello to Jann Arden) makes an appearance, too. A little bit pretty, a little bit earthy, The Instigator is, apart from a few dubious lyrics, about as good as folky pop gets.
Joss Mills : Love Is True CD on Plaza
Debut album from Northern Irish singer songwriter Joss Mills. Features Tim Wheeler from ASH. Originally started as a 4 track demo, ASH frontman Tim Wheeler got involved & drafted in drummer Rick McMurray on 3 tracks. 2 years in the making 'Love Is True' eventually developed into this full length, with the addition of cello, double bass, violin and piano parts. Whilst taking in elements of the likes of Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan, Love Is True is essentially a beautiful piece of work incorporating Joss' own personal take on modern folk music. Joss Mills will be appearing live in London Autumn 2002...
Miss Black America : god bless miss black america Cd on integrity records
’I was born in a force-ten gale/It takes more than hot air to blow the wind out of my sales/And my eyesight's poor/But I am the future/Hear me roar’: ‘Talk Hard’
Not exactly lacking in confidence, is MBA frontman, Seymour Glass. But, then again, you don't become agitator-in-chief of Britain's most politicised rock act by keeping your opinions to yourself. And, oh yes, Seymour has opinions. Religion, love, life, death, society, politics, education... There isn't much that's spared the vitriol of the angriest man in Bury St. Edmunds.
As you’d expect, quite simply, there hasn't been a record carrying this sort of all-encompassing caustic agenda since the Man-erm… A bunch of wide-eyed, glammed-up Clash fans started throwing rock shapes around with gleeful abandon some fifteen years ago. But whilst the M***** set their tales of Culture, Alienation, Boredom and Despair to a torrent of chunky power chords and cod-Guns N' Roses riffs, the ‘America favour a far more atmospheric, almost U2-esque brand of tuneful rock; guitarist Gish's intricate, slow-burning verses often culminating in an impassioned frenzy of a chorus.
Huge moments, churning six-string riffage and the memorable singles ‘Talk Hard’ and ‘Miss Black America’ prove the definite highlights throughout, the former number an ode to the resilience of put-upon outcasts everywhere (the act's answer to Pulp's ‘Mis Shapes’, if you will), the latter a rousing declaration of intent.
So, they may not be the finished article quite yet – it was always going to be tough translating their riotous live shows to long-playing record – but in a confused world where ‘Pop Idol’-flop Rik Waller can get a record deal, Miss Black America are nothing less than essential. Should they hold out so long, you're only allowed to stop loving them when The Greatest Hits Tour calls into arenas nationwide in 2012.
Misterlee : Chiselgibbon CD on Rubber Czech
When Misterlee started work on his debut album, he wanted to somehow combine the classic songwriting of the likes of Jacques Brel, Lennon and McCartney and Scott Walker with the eclectic production and arrangement qualities associated with artists such as Ennio Morricone, Beck, Wally Stott, PJ Harvey and George Martin. And he's just about succeeded... Misterlee's debut album, "CHISELGIBBON", is a truly original - and often challenging - masterpiece. This one-man musical maelstrom wrote, played, engineered and produced everything! Live, Misterlee performs solo... though occasionally as a duo, and also a trio, when the frighteningly-talented Jamieguitar Smith joins him (um... on guitar) and the debonair Mick Curtis-Oxtoby adds violin and bass. Misterlee has been witnessed supporting such like-minded individuals as Hamell On Trial and Johnny Dowd
Mistwitch : Smile For The Money Shot CD on Moonska
Madcap So-Cal inspired Irish Punk awash with mega riffs and glorious harmonies from Dublin's very own MIXTWITCH. With a successful EP and debut album "Funny But It's True" already released in Ireland, making MIXTWITCH the Emerald Isle's most popular "new" Punk band. Unusually sounding more Fat wreck than Moonska, this new album featuring the bands unique tuneful and powerful pop-Punk, should help launch one of Ireland's best kept secrets upon the UK and the rest of Europe.
Moistboyz : Iii CD on Ipecac
10 SONGS OF UNASHAMED DIRT ROCK IN THE VEIN OF RAMONES, ZZ TOP AND AC/DC FROM MOISTBOYZ , ALTER EGO OF AN INFAMOUS AMERICAN DUO WHO CANNOT BE NAMED FOR LEGAL REASONS.... *The Moistboyz are here to put a stop to "clear-channel" Rock and Roll. The Moistboyz are sick and tired of bullshit and candy-coated VH1 girl-rock. They will not appear in panties or women's clothes. The Moistboyz are not spokesmen of the oppressed. They care nothing for causes, marches, or human rights, because 'human rights' are only the communist watering-down of FREEDOM. The Moistboyz exist to provide loud Rock and Roll intended to be played at maximum volume.The Moistboyz have previously released two cds on the Beastie Boys' now defunct Grand Royal records, both were met with met overwhelming response by true fans of American Rock and Roll. *Moistboyz,III is 10 songs of pure, inspired American Rock and Roll, in an age where fake "metal" and "punk" are packaged and marketed nicely for you by the same people who provide your telephone service. The Moistboyz are here to serve notice to the fakers and doubters and reclaim Rock and Roll for those who aren't so easily fooled..... Dirt Rock For Fans Of: AC/DC. Ramones, Motorhead, The Toilet Boys
Moon Orchestra : You'll Know When You Get There CD on Dbut
With a strong basis in various obscure European and Cuban easy-listening records, Jon Platou Selvig, aka Moon Orchestra's sole member, blends in a contemporary edge with carefully crafted beats and serene melodies. His inspirational sources range from Barry White and Cuban salsa to contemporaries such as Jazzanova, DJ Food and St. Germain. A strong representative of the blossoming Norwegian scene, Moon Orchestra sets out to fill the void left between floor-filling club anthems and sweet-but-dull chill-out. Carving his own little niche, Jon is here to give you something for your hips as well as your head. A strong fascination for shiny vintage Boeing jets, deep lounge seats and soundtracks for imaginary (but slightly sedate) action movies is the foundation for music. Loosen your tie, treat yourself to a dry Martini and let the hips do the rest.
Morellas Forest : Tiny Lights Of Heaven CD on Endearing
From Dayton, Ohio, MORELLA'S FOREST are fun pop with catchy choruses, cool keys, and female vocals. Consisting of Sydney Rentz (vocals/ guitar), Sean McCorkle (bass), Shawn Johnson (guitar/ keyboards) and Nate McCorkle (drums), with the styling's of 80's new wave quirkiness and indie candy pop maintain a strong bond amongst the members of Morella's Forest, Sydney's lovely alluring vocals cascade through dreamy poppy keyboards and guitars. After the release of "Ultraphonic Hiss" and "From Dayton With Love" (Tooth & Nail), this third album "Tiny Lights of Heaven" finds the band venturing straight into the world of pop, creating some of the strongest songs and most moving ballads of their career. Flourishes of Stereolab, flashes of The Cardigans, and flecks of Velocity Girl have been injected into the band's guitar-driven songs, redefining the Morella's Forest aesthetic. Morella's Forest prepare to bring to the pop world more of their trademark infectious melodies delivered with sensuous vocals, textured guitars, creative arrangements and balanced rhythm section, bringing their own special collection of catchy, positive songs to everywhere that need a little more beauty. From Dayton with love, of course.
Moses : Swimming Zoo CD on Bmn
MOSES are Hartlepool-born brothers Paul & David Mosley, purveyors of quality acoustic pop songs & harmony-laden melancholia, and along with their highly musical friends they have produced their debut album "The Swimming Zoo". Both Paul and David are responsible for the songwriting and vocals, and it is the interplay between their voices that make the warmth and quality of the songs come through. Coupled with some subtle arrangements for guitars, cellos, trumpets and percussion, this is classy sophisticated songwriting. Already this has received a 3*** review in Q Magazine ("Given a sunny summer's day, this will fit the bill nicely"), and also good reviews in The Big Issue ("Fast maturing songwriting… classy indie pop") and Time Out ("gruff vocal elegance and stirring, warmly emotive, multi-instrumentalism"). For fans of Badly Drawn Boy, Elliott Smith, Beautiful South etc.
Mooz : Wheel That Squeaks The Loudest Is The One That Get (CD). on Sink And Stove
New to sink and stove are bristol based band mooz; a collective of four individuals creating an intensely edgy and seductive new sound using cello, bass, drums, guitar and vocals. With a broad range of musical influences they respond to their environment; creating haunting city soundscapes based around stripped-down melodic groove songs.they have played with roni size and horace andy and played glastonbury.the cd brings to mind talking heads , pj harvey, sleater kinney and the slits.
Mount Sims : Ultra Sex CD on Emperor Norton /Outside
Mount Sims’ ultimate gig would be playing a the prom in some ‘80s teen flick. To say Mount Sims is influenced by New Wave would imply that they’re not really new wave. Right. That would be wrong since Mount Sims are not influenced by new wave, they are new wave. Heavy keyboards and monotonous, robotic vocals on opening track "How We Do" lets you know how far back in time you’re going here. It’s a thin line between serious homage and cheeky camp that Mount Sims tight ropes across, but regardless of what you think about copying the formula instead of adding to it, it’s fun to listen and dance to. Most songs are cheeky and flirtatious, evidenced by great song titles like "We Electric," "Come And Get It" and "Delicious & Nutritious." Eighties geeks of the world, your new favourite band has arrived. Brian Pascual
Mummydogs : Mummydogs CD on Frontier Records
When thin white rope broke up in 1992, they broke the rock world's heart. Ten years on: the return of guy kyser should be greeted with a frenzied anticipation akin to the second coming of christ. The mummydogs' sound meanders through barry white, ennio morricone, delta blues and cracker country, and grungy melodic pop laced with maracas and feedback. Band features former members of thin white rope, chance the gardner, beatrice 9, jem and scout, and thornucopia
Muskoka : Isn't It Beautiful Out There CD on MOKI Records
Muskoka finally release their much anticipated debut album on their own label MOKI records. Following on from the success of their previous singles, the debut album delivers a mix of blissed out sound-scapes and traditional band set-up, combining acoustic folk sounds, haunting harmonies and simple hooks with dynamic walls of noise and rhythmic guitar laden textures. Highlights of this debut include the dirty grooves of "Younger for longer " and "Joe Meek", contrasting perfectly with the chilled out vibes of "Isn't it beautiful out there" and "This is your hurricane".
My Favourite : Love At Absolute Zero .CD on Double Agent
With songs packing sentiments like "Loneliness is pornography to them, but to us it is an art", My Favorite are the logical new choice for thoses disaffected folks who wore out their copies of The Smiths' 'Louder Than Bombs'. Saturated with dreams of escaping lives haunted by technology and an uncertain present, '..Absolute Zero' is reminiscent of Morrissey's golden years. Musically the quintet's songs also have the charming elegance of The Smiths, but layers of decadent synths and Michael Grace Jr's dusky voice also echo New Order, while Andrea Vaughn's fragile vocals recall the Cocteau Twins' gossamer atmospheres. The band have recently played shows with Marine Research.
Youssou N'dour : Nothing's In Vain Cd on Nonesuch
If you've ever heard of Senegal, you probably know that it's home to Youssou N'Dour, a popular African musician that has made in-roads into the musical vocabulary of the rest of the world (with a little help from Peter Gabriel). On Nothing's In Vain, N'Dour weaves in more traditional instruments from Senegal and creates songs like "Moor Ndaje" that are both intricate and emotional. He still maintains a gentle balance between his roots as a griot (oral historian) with pop sensibility. While he sings the majority of the lyrics in his mother tongue, he can still make you hum. However, the track "C'est L'Amour" indicates that, perhaps, Youssou is spending too much of his expatriate time soaking up sappy French lounge acts.
NAS : The Lost Tapes Cd on Columbia/Sony
Nas is one of the most over-analyzed hip-hop artists. When he first cut into the East Coast gangster scene with Illmatic, fans immediately gave props to his lyrical mastery. With his subsequent albums‚ fans thought Nas became a sellout thanks to collaborations with Aaliyah and Ginuwine. However, for fans of vintage Nas, Lost Tapes compiles unreleased tracks recorded during the Illmatic and I Am sessions. Songs like "My Way" feature trademark minimalist jazz loops and slicing lyrical cavalry, while others, like "Nothing Lasts Forever," suffer from poor arrangement, but still triumph lyrically. Overall, the album plays like an original release. For fan and critics, there is a no doubt that Nas has always been "half man, half amazing."
Nerf Herder : American Cheese CD on Honest Dons
This is the new and highly anticipated recording by NERF HERDER, anyone who knows this band will know that they’re anything but “hard” and don’t come from the “streets”, they are totally hilarious and are the true masters of new-wave influenced, quirky poppy punk music. “American Cheese” looks deep into love, alcohol and masturbating, twelve tracks the kids can relate to and after two long years since their last album, it’s about bloody time!
Nicotine : Samurai Shot CD on Asian Man
NICOTINE hail from Chiba, Japan and have been playing their punk rock sound since 1993, the band has worked extremely hard to bring their high octane sound to the masses. NICOTINE has sold well over 300,000 records of their previous two releases in Japan. Asian Man Records is proud to introduce this compilation of greatest hits from three full lengths, singles, and compilation tracks, over 70 minutes of music altogether. Influenced heavily by the likes of NOFX (same instrumentation - two guitars, bass and drums), in fact they've often been described as the Japanese NOFX.
Nightwalker : In Shop We Build Electric Chairs CD on Fading Captain
A modern day acid-drenched mind-fuck from your new favorite band - nightwalker. Born in the hills of bloomington, indiana, this decidedly gnome like outfit give no information as to their identities on their records. Each of their tracks is considered to be an album, 11 of them appear here. Previous to this release, nightwalker have released two albums in the form of 7"s - ' lucifers aching revolver' and 'firehouse mountain' both of which sold out within days of their release. All nightwalker recordings are met with a rather enormous amount of praise from the folks who like to Call themselves "psychedelic." These recordings set the standard for "out." Includes the hits "the fink swan (swims away)" & "ceramic cock einstein." On the robert pollard-centric label; the fading captain series.
Not From There : Latvian Lovers :CD on Kool Arrow
With a history that includes several deportations, a stay in bratislava and a hit single sung in a foreign language, not from there are arguably one of the most popular independent bands in australia. Not from there have opted to make their second album, 'latvian lovers' available in the uk / europe on kool arrow records (the label formed by billy gould (ex-faith no more), raymond herrera and dino cazeres of fear factory and juan brujo of brujeria). The music - though completely original - has a vague familiarity about it, inviting (distant) comparisons to the fall, sonic youth, and girls against boys. They then decided to record their next full length “latvian lovers”, taking the approach of recording with only small glimpses of musical ideas in place. Nft surprised all with their disco flavoured 'frisco disco' a track that gained radio rotation across the board and perfectly introduces the bizarre transition that is 'latvian lovers' an album which fuses their past style with a mutated electro meets mexicana disco vibe
No-man : Heaven Taste CD on Hidden Art
‘heaven taste’ comprises a selection of b-sides, rarities and outtakes recorded in the band’s studio. Originally released through the voiceprint label it is now re-released on the hidden art label after being out of print for some considerable time. This new digitally re-mastered recording features the full length version of the title track ‘heaven taste’ (which was edited on the previous issue) as well as brand new artwork throughout. Focusing on the more filmic and atmospheric aspects of the band’s output, the album boasts a rich and seamless fusion of ambient, ecm jazz and dance influences. Highlights include title track ‘heaven taste’, a stunning twenty-two minute instrumental collaboration with ex-japan/rain tree crow legends jansen, barbieri and karn and an inspired cover version of the nick drake classic ‘road’.
Sinead O'connor  : Sean Nos Nua
'Sean Nós Nua' is a collection of traditional songs recorded and produced by Sinead O'Connor with seminal Irish musician Donal Lunny and Adrian Sherwood (Massive Attack, NIN, Dub Syndicate, The Cure). "The way we have recorded them is to 'sexy' them up with rhythms and sounds so that they can become part of what is new style", says O'Connor. "Hence the record is called 'Sean Nós Nua' - old style but new". Other musical guests include Sharon Shannon (accordian),former Waterboy Steve Wickham (fiddle) and Christy Moore. Highlights include 'Óró, Sé Do Bheatha 'Bhaile', an Irish language song celebrating Grace O'Malley, the sixteenth century pirate who battled the Spanish and French fleet, Dublin street ballad 'Molly Malone', and 'Peggy Gordon', a traditional song of unrequited love.
"Normally traditional Irish music has been presented in a sexless way and in such an old fashioned way that - with the exception of Moving Hearts -no-one has really made the songs appeal to young artists, as what is traditional in Ireland is thought of as being uncool. Myself, Adrian Sherwood and Donal Lunny are hoping to make Irish traditional music appealing to singers, bands and songwriters who are bored with the state of Irish music as it is now" - Sinead O'Connor
Of Montreal : Aldhils Arboretum CD on Track And Field
Their songs soar and weave with energy and goodwill, daring anyone who hears them to walk away without a smile on their face. Listening to of montreal, you might think that singer / songwriter / architect kevin barnes is missing the angst gene. But the longer you listen, the more you start to realize that maybe missing the angst gene is a blessing. It allows kevin to more fully explore his crazily creative ideas and to make wondrous music. The band have released five long-players in the states and have built a strong a following through extensive coast to coast touring and their close links to te elephant 6 collective. Their new long-player, "aldhil's arboretum"
Oddfellows Casino : Yellow Bellied Wonderland CD on Pickled Egg
Oddfellows casino is the latest incarnation of brighton-based singer-songwriter david bramwell, whose past exploits have included recording with cult producer kramer for the shimmy disk/ koko-pop label. ‘yellow-bellied wonderland’ is his first album with pickled egg, and proves to be a dreamy, exotic and intriguing debut. Packed to the hilt with to-die-for tunes, the album lurches from hammond-drenched pop to haunting electronica, blaring horns, wispy flutes, eastern-sounding string arrangements and stripped down acoustic piano songs. Lyrically, bramwell pays homage to his northern roots, with tracks such as ‘road movie’ and ‘hide me, joe’ exploring the wilderness of lincolnshire and the north york moors, while elsewhere there are tales of drunken evenings by the fire, the author’s forlorn insomniac wanderings and some deliciously black humour in the tale of the ‘prune-faced man and his fat wife’’.
Oneida : Each One Teach One : CD on Jagjagwuar
As is the case with Oneida's live performances, the focal point of the material here is the pursuit of overwhelming aural cacophony. This latest sonic assault begins with a noisy monotone marathon that goes for the listener’s jugular with a vengeance. "Sheets Of Easter" drops into a 20-minute drone only interrupted by one 10 second break. The other composition on the first of this two-CD set has a similar lack of structure. It’s not until CD 2 that some actual song structures appear and a more layered mix is presented. Sure, there is some order to this sonic experimentation, but Oneida tend to throw the basic song structures out with the proverbial bath water, leaving the listener with more questions than answers from this seemingly pointless sonic hurricane.
Oranges Band : On Tv CD on Lookout!
"Music is Mobility!" is the mantra. Activity is the goal. The Oranges Band are a concept band and the concept reads "Make good music. Take to the streets." It sounds easy, and it is. But it took a while to arrive at this simplicity. Roman Kuebler began making music five years ago with the Roads to Space Travel, a Baltimore quartet of indie rockers banging around in their basement. The quartet slimmed to a trio and the band focused on creating complex pop music. They put out two full lengths on Amish Records & a 7" on DeSoto. The Orange Calendar then started around April, 2000 with the release of the innovatively packaged and appropriately titled seven inch/cd combo, "The Five Dollars EP", on Morphius Records followed by a five song effort titled "Nine Hundred Miles of Fucking Hell", released 2001. In it's second year, with the original touring line up still in place, the band confirmed it's commitment by adopting the more appropriate title of The Oranges Band. 'On Tv' is their debut mini for Lookout! Records. The references are many: some Velvet Underground, some Smiths, maybe some James. Modern types will hear similarities to The Strokes, but none of these do them justice. The jangly yet driving guitars, the intensely heavy melodies, the pounding drums are all tied together by the incredible vocal delivery of Roman Kuebler. The Oranges Band are destined for big things.
Out Hud : Street Dad CD on Kranky
Debut album from hotly tipped Brooklyn outfit OUT HUD, currently one of the most talked about bands on the U.S. live circuit....... *Out Hud deliver the rhythm and the restraint: recalling the DRY, BRITTLE FUNK of EARLY 80's UK POST PUNK, think FACTORY RECORDS meets ON U SOUND. *This 5 piece doesn't sound hopelessly retro or preciously muso, at the core is an airtight, energetic live band transformed in the mix into a pounding system with a wide melodic range. *File next to: Factory Records/On U Sound
Oxes : Oxxxes .CD on Monitor
Confrontational call it what you want,nobody cares.what matters is that this band is making some of the best,most influential,groundbreaking music available today ,"oxxxes" proves that.this joyous piece of ear candy takes you from "wanting to punch your best friend" anger, to "shaking your bottom, baltimore dance club style"!!! Done completely with only two guitars and one drum set.recorded by bob weston (shellac).finally a band to bring back the early days of bastro, don caballero, rapeman and bitch magnet,throw in some trans am quirkiness some champs riffing
Paper Moon : One Thousad Reasons To Stay CD on Endearing
Created a few months after the amicable dissolution of the critically-acclaimed Winnipeg pop group B'ehl, three of the group's members decided to try making music together again. Allison Somers, Bob Somers (ex-The Bonaduces) and Chris Hiebert (also ex-The Bonaduces), recruited Heather Campbell (ex-The Electrosonics and Bossanova) to add a new sonic dimension to their music. Paper Moon is the result. Sometimes driving, sometimes atmospheric, melodic throughout, Paper Moon would not seem out-of-place on the same stage as That Dog (if they were still around), The Cardigans, The Sundays or Juliana Hatfield.
Part Chimp : Chart Pimp CD on Rock Action
MOGWAI's ROCK ACTION LABEL PRESENTS THE HEAVY AS FUCK DEBUT ALBUM FROM PART CHIMP, THINK QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE meets JESUS LIZARD meets MOGWAI...... Part Chimp are Tim Cedar (guitar/vocals), John Hamilton (drums) both ex - LIGAMENT, Nick Prior (bass) ex - SCARFO and Ian H (guitar) ex - SAWYER. Mogwai were so impressed by the band when they supported them at their Shepherds Bush Empire gig that they asked the band if they could release the record on their label. 'Chart Pimp' is LOW BROW, KNUCKLE SCRAPING, PRIMAL GARAGE PUNK ROCK, METAL with a hint of COUNTRY thrown in for good measure. *VINYL LIMITED TO 500 COPIES. Part Chimp will playing several live dates around the country to support the album including dates with TRAIL OF DEAD. *File next to : QUEENS/JESUS LIZARD/MOGWAI/TRAIL OF DEAD.
Pastel Vespa : L'anarchie CD on Siesta
Pastel Vespa hails from Brazil, that's Brazil just south of France, west of St. Tropez. She's Astrud Gilberto in a late nite jazz club, - a Latin blonde with the silky voice of Claudine Longet surrounded by musical maestros that could be re-incarnations of Bacharach, Jobim or Tony Hatch. "L'Anarchie", her first full-length album, presents camp cover versions of hits by The Sex Pistols, Astrud Gilberto, Kiss, Thin Lizzy, Chumbawamba, Ian Dury and Alanis Morrissette. Unforgettable songs aided by the rhapsodic musical direction of Mr. John Thorn, Pastel Vespa takes you on a journey into exciting new musical terrain. Mariachi bands strum where electric guitars once howled, smooth lounge blows the angst from Chumbawamba, and "Ironic" gets the torch song treatment it always craved. Pastel slows the Kiss classic "I Was Made For Lovin' You" down to a bedroom purr, Wheatus' "Teenage Dirtbag" goes adult-contemporary and "Evie Pts 1, 2 & 3", the quintessential Australian 70's rock anthem, becomes a melding of lounge, The Carpenters and Latin disco! Exotica? Lounge pop? Mambo Pop? Anarchy Cha-cha?… Yes, the boys are back in town, but this time they're packing marimbas!
Pavement :  Slanted And Enchanted:Luxe & Reduxe Cd on Matador
Ten years ago, Slanted And Enchanted first hit record stores and college radio waves. Equal parts art-rock pretension, white noise hullabaloo and unforgettable melody, Slanted was a beacon in the indie rock wilderness. Now, to celebrate the now-defunct band, Matador releases the Luxe & Reduxe version of this release. Two CDs contain the album proper, John Peel sessions, the Watery, Domestic EP, along with other rarities and an entire live show. Malkmus's scrawled lyrics, as well as liner notes by the major players accompany the album. While sitting through both CDs at one time may be too much of a good thing, taken in parts this is an invaluable document and a pleasurable listen. Plus, "Summer Babe" ranks among the best first songs on a debut album from any decade.
Peaches : Teaches Of Peaches CD on XL
Now Peaches has signed to XL Recordings, we are proud to present her hard-to-find debut longplayer, The Teaches Of Peaches, in all its glory She could eat you for breakfast – and with her fearlessness and humour, her tongue lapping her cheek lasciviously, she joined the ranks of artists like Madonna, Lil' Kim, Kathleen Hanna and Lydia Lunch who’ve succeeded in bending the complex sexual energies of pop to their own cultural ends. When Peaches reached her spiritual home - the capital of decadence, Berlin - her unbridled live passion and her fruity verbal flow made lots of people want to fuck. And dance. And cast off their inhibitions. And laugh. And then do it all again. .One thing led to another, as it so often does when wearing pink latex, and Kitty-Yo released Peaches' motherlode, the Teaches Of Peaches full-length, to the lucky people of Europe in September. Produced and recorded entirely by Peaches herself, fusing the nihilst gutter-tronics of Suicide with the carnal knowledge of a wanton hussy, The Teaches Of Peaches thrilled critics and soundtracked clubs, fashion shows, house parties, pole-dances, DJ sets, fetish scenes, gay discos, intimate soirees, gallery openings and furtive assignations for many, many months thereafter. . The vinyl pack is a special limited-edition five LP set, including the entire album, plus four brand new songs and four acapella versions of album tracks, packaged in a super-wide spined sleeve. The follow-up to The Teaches Of Peaches will be released next year…
Pele : Enemies Cd on Polyvinyl
While this album was playing on the stereo, my roommate asked who would like this type of music. My response: Geeky White College Boys. What more can I say about this derivative math-rock instrumental album? Pele is a quartet who were probably completely into this sort of music during their college years. So it's no stretch that this dense material would come out of the heads of this foursome. There's lots of music going on here: meandering, fiddly guitar, major bass line fret fingering, multiple key and tempo changes. This entire album seems more like aural excerpts from a professional music lesson than a document for casual listening.
Peralta : Peralta .CD on Atarms Mechanics / No Idea
Imagine that True North attack mixed up with an early DC sound, with a little BIG BLACK and BLACK FLAG and you have Peralta. What a great mix it is too! Like BIG BLACK, they have that chaotic guitar sound, but manage to make a melody out of this. The bass hits you like that out of BLACK FLAG and the whole thing is kept at a tidy pace. They recently toured with PLANES MISTAKEN FOR STARS and are getting great reviews.
Phantomsmasher : Phantomsmasher CD on Ipecac
Phantomsmasher is: (the Atomsmasher you know and love) Dave Witte (Drums), DJ Speedranch (AudioMulch Vocals), and James Plotkin (Bass, Guitar, Synthi, Wave Editing). Pushing the boundaries of Hardcore, Grind, Electronica, etc. through radical experimentation. A masterful meeting between violent rock and violent electronics. "It's energy, it's power, it's evil, it's beautiful, it's emotional, it's hell and heaven rolled into one big fat blunt, smoked like a motherfucker." -DJ Speedranch James Plotkin has also released music under the guises of Scorn, Old, Khanate, Atomsmasher and Death Ambient. For Fans Of: Kid606, Venetian Snares, Aphex Twin.
Piranhas : Erotic Grit Movies CD on in the red
The second of this week’s slew of in the red releases, and it’s another mind blowing debut, following On from some blinding singles, hailing from detroit (yes its that hotbed of raw talent again!) Have already been on the cover of mmr.their chaotic live shows haveearned them a reputation as one of the few truly primal and dangerous bands around. Their music is a violent head on collision between art skronk abstraction and raw punk savagery. Like a mutant cross between hearpen era pere ubu and damaged era black flag, with a dose of mid 70s cleveland punk poured over the top for good measure.
Plastic : Kunst Stoff CD on Accession
Brand new from Accession Records. PLASTIC's debut album '[kunst]: Stoff' is an uncompromising mix of EBM, electro and synth pop. Walls of sound, combined with pulsing bass sequences & glorious vocals.
Pocket Rockets : Love Or Perish .CD on Teenbeat
New signings to Teenbeat are a trio of Washington DC area teenagers putting the "Teen" back in Teenbeat. They list their influences as David Bowie & other early 70's glam bands, but somehow come out sounding more like indie 2002. Johnny Marr-ish guitars & teen girl angst vocals with almost psychedelic production help from Bill Doss (OLIVIA TREMOR CONTROL, SUNSHINE FIX) & Ryan Lewis (KINDERCORE, FOUR CORNERS). A blazing debut.
Pollard / Meltzer / Smegma / Antler : Tropic Of Nipples CD on Off
exclusive & unreleleased material ROBERT POLLARD (GBV) joins forces with RICAHRD MELTZER (lyricist for Blue Oyster Cult) to create one sick little puppy of a release. Features unreleased songs that bubble & burn with the musical yet psychedelic minds of legendary 70's noise outfits SMEGMA & ANTLER
Polly Phillips : No Relation .CD on Koala Music
This is the second album from Scottish singer-songwriter Polly Phillips, described as having ‘the voice of an angel that swears like a trooper’, who is fast becoming one of Scotland’s hottest musical properties. A collection of raw-boned songs, sung with sheer power and passion – switching from a delicate acoustic feel on the girl-next-door breathtaking love songs to full-on guitar rock on the angry-young-woman honesty edgy numbers. Press quotes: “taking our breath away with an incredible demonstration of her vocal abilities” The List, “The kind of voice that makes you want to do wild things” Diva, “Bristling with ironic observation and vivid imagery” The Scotsman, “A beguiling voice…you could close your eyes and imagine a less gravelly PJ Harvey” The List. Sweet and clear, hard and bitter, a definite cut above the majority of singer-songwriters, a very original style but not a million miles from the commercially successful sounds of the world of Sheryl Crow, Tori Amos
Patrick Porter : Reverb Saved My Life .CD on Camera Obscura
We are chuffed to bring you the extraordinary recordings made by Patrick Porter (one half of the spacepop duo Raining on Vivian St previously known as PHINEAS GAGE) in 1997-98. Committed by the then teenager to a friend’s basement 16-track ADAT in the early hours of the morning, the songs have a Nick Drake-like internalization & soul. These recordings, originally self-released on cassette have now been re engineered & expanded instrumentally to present them sonically as their scope & sweep deserves. Lyrical, lilting & rhythmic, the songs share some similarity to work by the likes of Spiritualised, Low, & Piano Magic, but seem more like floating in a zone of sleep-deprived questioning & seeking rather than in space. Ambient & glorious, Porter’s vocal & guitar work shine throughout, but never more so than on the newly recorded “St Louis”, on which the swaying melody & skipping guitar lines are tracked by a night chorus of crickets inside a vast cathedral of sound.
Post : Backwards CD on S A Records
A three piece from bloomington, in, the post seamlessly synthesize the standard guitar/bass/drum rock orchestration with organic samples, loops and keyboards. On the newly released cd, backwards, the post have come into their own by fully integrating the sound collages and broken times and loops. Though don't be misled, the post is not another laptop outfit bleeping its waythough their record. Instead, the collages and beats are allowed to wrap themselves around the song's core. And the results a mix of the experimental arrangements of this heat, morricone textures and the rhythms of the talking heads.
Peru You : In The Sea On The Sea CD on Tpwb
This 5-piece band from Oslo, Norway have what it takes to kiss your ears!. These four men and a woman - fifty fingers that perform with Farfisa and a concerto guitar, melodica and Korg, duets and glockenspiel, with bass and pocket percussion to sway your hips! And the revellers are: Ole Bjerkebakke: Percussion, drums, whistle, Knut Xyvind Olsen: Vocals, Farfisa, bass, guitar, melodica, glockenspiel, Linda Wietfeldt: Vocals, Farfisa, piano, melodica, bass, Christian Solberg: Bass, guitar, Even Juliussen: Guitar, bass, melodica, Korg. Press: Drammens Tidende 5/6 - "..debuts with brilliantly underproduced lo-fi/slow-core pop magic - a surprising release from the Norwegian underground." "Peru You are terrific songwriters and the record is loaded with melodies with a character of their own." "Never noisy, but all the more beautiful and athmospheric." CD comes in clear jewelbox with delicious artwork. Vinyl is limited to 300 numbered copies with inserts.
Pia Fraus : In Solarium CD on Claire
“In Solarium” is the second album from Pia Fraus. It sees the band reaching new heights of sonic texture. The band’s six members utilize a bevy of instruments including farfisa organ, synthesizers, “noise”, two vocalists, bass, drums, and of course those wonderful guitars. Their songs have a remarkable sense of melody that’ll be stuck in your head for ages. The layers upon layers of guitars, keyboards, and boy/girl vocals put you in a different place - a land of daydreams and bright colors. It’s pop. It’s noisy. It’s brilliant.
Dave Pirner : Faces & Names Cd on Sony
For his solo debut, Soul Asylum’s tangle-haired front-man Dave Pirner arrives in a crooning mood. Lush Hammond organ, horns and hip-hop beats accentuate an album that crosses acoustic singer/songwriter every-which-wayness with modern R&B. Pirner additionally draws a line back to Stevie Wonder, Taylor-era Stones, Marvin Gaye and even Michael Jackson. The lyrics are intensely personal, involved and involving (and very hard to read). Adept and literary as Pirner is, this is also a high gloss, high concept recording.
Poor Rich Ones : From The Makers Of Ozium (CD). on Rec90
This album won the Spellemannprisen (Norwegian Grammy) in 1998. This is the Poor Rich Ones second album and incl. the track "Small Glimpse" which was a single of week at XFM. The album was produced with the band and Kai Andersen (Madrugada and Motorpsycho)
Pretty Girls Make Graves : Good Health . CD on Lookout
Pretty Girls Make Graves are the future of punk rock. They're equal parts style, sound and emotion. Their music and live show exemplify the kind of experimentation, humanity, honesty and intensity that make the punk rock underground continually vital. Pretty Girls Make Graves defy the limiting definitions of emo, hardcore and street-punk to present a sound all their own. The songs are incredible bursts of joy, pain, energy and true emotion set to a visceral and dynamic punk soundscape. Their pedigree is hard to deny (featuring members of Kill Sadie, Death Wish ids, The Beehive Vaults and Murder City Devils), and in the short year since they formed they have developed an amazing following. The vocals and lyrics of singer Andrea Zollo put her up there along the likes of Exene Cervenka and Penelope Houston as an incredibly powerful and exciting singer. Pretty Girls Make Graves are effective and compelling, they are serious and real. With plans to tour non-stop in 2002, Pretty Girls Make Graves are a force to contend with in Punk Rock for the new millennium.
Primesth : Underneath The Surface .CD on Rebelution Entertainment
With two singles under their belts this is the bands first full length, originally from Stockholm, Sweden they’ve now relocated to Los Angeles and quickly gaining a reputation for themselves playing good ol’ heavy rock. The band have worked with producers Andy Wallace (LINKIN PARK, NIRVANA, STSTEM OF A DOWN) and Tom Lord-Age (WEEZER, MARILYN MANSON) so you know it’s quality.
Printed Circuit : Adventure Game CD on Catmobile
In the past four years, claire broadley has recorded as printed circuit for irritant, tigerbeat6, 555 and elefant, played live with kid 606, chicks on speed, le tigre, cex and manitoba, on her 2001 cd 'reprints'. Her music was recently described as “the logical outcome of commodore 64s being force-fed down usb cables”, and her first full-length, 'the adventure game', demonstrates that theory perfectly. Despite the cautious tones of opener 'paws', the album almost immediately explodes into the vibrant, technicolour electro-pop of 'semaphore on the dancefloor'. It's the printed circuit ethic condensed into one song; crafted melodies leading exciting electronic music that can be both intelligent and fun. Everything about 'the adventure game' has been painstakingly crafted, right down to the exceptional designed album artwork (by mike langlie of yipyop.com). Amongst a genre that throws out a vast volume of work every year, you should know that when a printed circuit record is made, the music is always imbued with love, attention, optimism, blood, sweat and beats. It's electronic, but truly human in its emotion.
Prong : 100% Live CD on Locomotive
Brand new live album from the reunited prong. The band consist of tommy victor (vocals / guitar), dan laudo (drums), brian perry (bassist) and monte pittman (guitar). The album includes 'beg to differ', 'snap your fingers, snap your neck', 'prove you wrong', 'whose fist is this anyway', 'rude awakening', 'controller', 'another wordly device' and more. 14 tracks in total.
Puressence : Planet Helpless CD on Island
Having spent the latter part of last year on-the-road honing their craft, Puressence reach the next rung on the ascendancy ladder with the release of their third -and finest - longplayer. Recorded at the Fallout Shelter,Revolution, Ridge Farm, Westside and Zarma (Paris),'Planet Helpless' shows a massive leap in maturity following 1996's 'Puressence' and 1999s 'Only Forever',an album that won Puressence an enormous amount of critical acclaim. A bludgeoningheadrush of spectral guitar lines and acrobatic vocals, standout tracks include the epic 'Walking Dead', the beautiful 'How Does It Feel?' and the sublime 'Heart Of Gold'. The end result is their most accomplished album to date and one that,should make them odds-on in their continuing assault against mediocrity.
Q And Not U : Different Damage CD on Dischord
'Different Damage' is the follow up to their highly acclaimed debut 'No Kill No Beep Beep' and was recorded by IAN MACKAYE and DON ZIENTARA. Q and Not U will be supporting FUGAZI on selected dates of the highly anticpated, recently rearranged UK tour. File next to : Gang of Four/Fugazi/Rapture/Bluetip
Quix*o*tic : Mortal Mirror CD on Kill Rock Stars
Gloomy soul music from x-slant 6, the blue rider and cromtech folks. Quix*o*tic is based in washington dc and is made up of christina billotte (autoclave, slant 6), mira billotte (the blue rider), and mick barr (cromtech, orthrelm, octis). Christina and mira are sisters and they use their voices to create innovative and haunting harmonies and other vocal intrigues. And christina is a fabulous guitarist as seen in her work in her previous bands. Mick plays in crazy prog-rock bands so his playing is as impeccable as you might imagine. The music is a unique and finely balanced mixture of genres that seems to create its own new genre and feels perfectly natural. Soul, garage, goth-punk (such as the cramps et al) and indie-rock mix to create a new thing that doesn't sound quite like any of these, although if pressed you could call it soul more than anything else. Maybe "gloomy soul music." quix*o*tic has done three tours around the us, one in europe. They've toured with sonic youth, will oldham, papa m, blonde redhead, fugazi, the rapture, and some others.
Rabbincial School Dropouts : Cosmic Tree CD on Tzadik
Based in california, the rabbinical school dropouts is about as crazy as a group of kooks as one could wish for. Sun ra, the hampton grease, frank zappa and the klezmatics all rolled into one. The music of the three freidmann brothers is fresh and imaginative. Their ten-piece big band (featuring oboe, bassoon, mandolin, toy piano, tablas, etc) storms through a dozen creative originals touching upon klezmer, jazz, funk, latin, rock and varied silliness along the way. Jewish garage jazz with a sick sense of humour from long beach, california
Radio 4  : Gotham : CD on City Slang
Half dance party, half political rally, 'Gotham!' is the hook-saturated, dance-rock record of 2002. Complete with a post-punk fortitude, this is one of the most exciting, most passionate and most aggressive albums to be released in a long time. There's no mistaking the influences ­ from Gang Of Four to The Clash to Talking Heads to PiL ­ but seldom have you heard anything so fresh, so animated, so focussed, so political and so full-on funky. Addictive rockers such as 'Start a Fire', 'Eyes Wide Open', and 'Calling All Enthusiasts' are accentuated by Tommy Williams's serrated, funky guitar workouts, while 'Speaking in Code', and 'Pipe Bombs' explore hypnotic dub inflections. Meanwhile, 'Struggle' and 'End of the Rope' could incite a dance riot. And yes, the anthemic 'Dance To The Underground' does indeed sum it all up for a new movement of rock bands demanding you to shake your rump.
Mark Rae : rae road CD on grand central records
On numerous debut albums, talent and potential may well be blindingly obvious, but you can’t help but wish that some artists had that little bit more experience that may help them escape the pitfalls of the initial outing that claim so many lives at the first hurdle.
Mark Rae has found a clever way around it all. Although this is, strictly speaking, his debut record, ‘Rae Road’ benefits hugely from experience gained from his involvement in renowned dance duo, Rae & Christian, as well as his ownership of the Grand Central label – on which he releases this long-awaited LP… And a pretty good effort it is, too. ‘Rae Road’ consistently manages to succeed where other dance-tinged albums recently have failed due to a lack of variation or ability to laugh, both of which are things that this album has in abundance.
Rae tells of how he ‘wanted this record to be almost like a Jackson Pollock’, which should give you an idea of the scope of the project. Although the comparison to Pollock may lead you to expect something slightly more leftfield than what is on offer, what you do get is an invigoratingly cheeky take on dance, as the mischievous opener ‘Lobster’ lets you know right from the off, and – hell – the inclusion of ‘proper songs’ also makes a nice change. Obviously a practiced lyricist and songwriter as well as record guru and DJ, Mark Rae has enlisted the help of many vocal-talents to add flair to the mix, most notably the soulful tones of Veba (who Rae calls ‘the best vocalist I have ever heard’), whose superb virtuoso performance on first single ‘Lavish’ recalls better sides of Soul 2 Soul, whilst on the vaguely Avalanches sounding funk of ‘Fold or Flower’, she makes Shirley Bassey sound like a partially-muted pussycat.
Another guest-singer, this time in the shape of Joseph Cotton, provides the album with its standout moment in the stimulating, ragga-garage crossover of ‘Candystripe’, itself an utter contrast to anything provided by Veba’s admirable efforts. The variation is the album’s main strength – even if the dance-flavoured R&B style will not be to everyone’s taste – and any accusations of dullness or lack of flair simply don’t have a leg to stand on. The only times where ‘Rae Road’ lets itself down, incidentally, are where it becomes too comfortable with itself, for example ‘I Need A Fix’, which in comparison to everything else just seems rather plain, and ‘Bamburgh Dunes’, which seems to show a slight slip in the level of imagination.
Otherwise, the continuity in terms of worthwhile, memorable tunes is a big achievement. It never leans towards self-indulgence, stands up to intensive listening and always keeps a firm grip on luscious, catchy melodies such as those in ‘Dime Train’ and ‘Make No Mistake’. It won’t revitalise what according to some reports is a dying scene all by itself, but others in the game would do well to take notice; it’s become clear now that being mediocre will not get you anywhere for long – and ‘Rae Road’ may well be the path to take.
Red Animal War : Black Phantom Crusades CD on Deep Elm
Rich with innovation, intensity and complex songwriting BLACK PHANTOM CRUSADES represents a flawless mixture of art and math. Unpredictable and aggressive yet never out of control, RED ANIMAL WAR pulls, screams and claws at the heart of guitar-driven rock as if they had just one last chance to save it. And save it they do...with a unique display of sound, style and talent so delicately restrained one minute, so ferociously ready for battle the next. Multi-layered patchworks of instrumentation, intricate start-stop dynamics and sharply written melodies characterize the somehow seamless flow of each song on this amazing sophomore release. Wrapped with smart lyrics that venture far beyond the domain of broken hearts, lead singer Justin Wilson understands that words can hit as hard as any instrument. The rhythm section is so driving and the guitar play so tricky...you can feel it in your bones. Turn-on-a-dime dynamics, pop-punk riff sensibility, heartfelt emotion and sharply written melodies. - Slave INTENSE...great, innovative and intriguingly catchy songs Clever stuff...hard to pin down. - Fracture If half of bands out there were half as good as RAW, the world would be a better place. Superhero * Recommended to Fans of: Braid, Burning Airlines, Hot Water Music, Jimmy Eat World
Redefine : The Daisy Chain Cycle .CD on Sugarshack
Though aged in their late teens, Redifine share an intensity you would only expect from a band who had honed their skills over a decade or more. Singer Pete Daplyn's voice drips with heartbroken emotion over an almost tribal backbeat with the kind of awesome crunching guitars that leave no gaps at all in an almost wall of sound assault on the senses. Containing twelve tracks 'The Daisychain Cycle' includes last single (Kerrang! Single Of The Week) 'Cypher' and a totally reworked version of their debut single 'Seven By Seven', plus ten brand new compositions that display a vibrant, brand nu extremely young and very hard rocking band at their searing best. Catch Redefine live when they headline The Barfly at The Monarch in Camden on April 15th, prior to a full UK tour. Here's just some of the nice things the press had to say about Redifine's previous releases: KERRANG! 'Knowing that this is just the start for them just makes it all the more exciting', 4KKKK 'Single of The Week'. ROCK SOUND 'Exciting and emotional, 'Cypher' benefits from trying to sound like Deftones when it's had too much of the Placebo influence'. METAL HAMMER 'Bristol-based space-age rock quartet (not in a Spineshank fear Factory Kinda way, though) who sound like an eclectic fusion of Silverchair, Incubus and Far. Check'Em Out'.
Red Star Belgrade : Secrets And Lies CD on Blue Rose
Mixing country, alternative rock, and hard driving pop, Red Star Belgrade (formed in North Carolina by ex-music critic Bill Curry) offer their fourth full-length CD. A compelling ride from start to finish, Red Star Belgrade's 'Secrets and Lies' incorporates everything from barnstorming guitar rock to alternative country to organ blues and even lush piano songs. Adding to the guitar assault this time around is none other than Eleventh Dream Day guitarist Rick Rizzo who adds sparkling lead work on the both the title cut (perhaps the band's finest song to date - a maelstrom of epic fury as Rizzo and Curry unleash a mammoth wall of sound) and the CD's opening track, "Drowning," a tragic tale of murder and paranoid delusions. Fans of Red Star Belgrade's twangier side are also sure not to be disappointed by "Twinkle," with its melancholy pedal steel, and "We Tried," a classic country waltz about a disintegrating relationship. For more than eight years, Red Star Belgrade has made some of the darkest and most uncompromising music on the planet. Provocative, insightful, and always tuneful, 'Secrets and Lies' just might be the band's best CD yet.
Reno Divorce : Naysayers And Yesmen CD on Boss Tuneage
Debut album from these Denver, Colorado natives who play high octane Punk Rock 'n' Roll with a heavy Social Distortion influence. Managing to incorperate elements of the Pogues into their more anthemic moments Reno Divorce deliver on all counts with all the 'old school' feel and swagger of their So. Cal. peers. Make no mistake this pure is Orange County Punk Rock circa 1982, mid-paced to fast Punk with that trademark emphasis on melody and vocal harmony. Reno Divorce have gained themselves a searing live reputation have toured the U.S. relentlessly with the likes of All, Pavers (ex All singer Scott Reynold's new band) and their heroes SOCIAL DISTORTION!. For Fans of: Social Distortion, Adolecsents & the Pogues. Track on the forthcoming Boss Tuneage sampler due in September, plus track on Boss Tuneage cover mount CD free with first 10,000 copies of famous German 'Ox' Magazine in September
Richmond Fontaine : Winnemucca .CD on El Cortez Records
On their fourth album, "Winnemucca", Richmond Fontaine continue their musical journey of richly woven musical settings, atmospheric vistas, and lyrical storytelling. Recorded at Type Foundry Studios in Portland, Oregon by John Askew (Tracker, Norfolk and Western) and Joanna Bolme (The Minders, Steve Malkmus, Elliot Smith), "Winnemucca" finds the members of Richmond Fontaine mining a subtler vein than on previous efforts. The album deftly conjures up images of a late night ride throught the desert where death, despair and ultimately hope reign supreme. "Winnemucca" is named after a small town in Northern Nevada where the band wrote most of the material for the album. Richmond Fontaine is: Willy Vlautin (guitar, vocals) Paul Brainard (pedal steel, dobro) Dave Harding (bass) Sean Oldham (drums). "Portland, Oregon's Richmond Fontaine is one of the best acts to emerge from the new-country movement.....the band beats Son Volt at it's own game." -- The Onion (Denver, Madison) "The band balances it's taste for punk rock with it's love for pedal steel, blending settled-down folk with fiery energy." -- The Pitch Weekly (Kansas City) "Richmond Fontaine has reached an apex that few bands reach in a lifetime. Richmond Fontaine plants itself at the top of the country-rock band heap." -- Willamette Week (Portland, OR)
Riff Randells : Riff Randells .CD on Delmonico
The Riff Randells are two young girls and a boy playing teenage pop punk the way it should be. Their sugar coated rock'n'roll riot is made up of fun-filled infectiously catchy tunes, a la The Go-Gos, The Donnas, and The Ramones. The rock'n'roll trio is made up of Kathy on electric guitar, Anne-Marie on drums, and Justin on bass. Hailing from the rainy city of Vancouver, the band has been playing shows and writing songs since the summer of 1999. Mint Records put out their first two 7" records, the second "Who Says Girls Can't Rock" was KERRANG's SINGLE OF THE WEEK. (5KKKKK's), the Riff Randells released their next single with San Fransisco's Lipstick Records. This is their debut MINI CD recorded & released by CHIXDIGGIT's label DELMONICO... 6_ track_ punk_rock_ scorcher !! Recommended !!
Rise : Signal To Noise .CD on Ferret
From the state of Texas comes a new noise. Rules and limitations are ignored and genres well and truly trampled in the quest for the New. Hardcore, after all, should be the sound of Revolution, and revolution takes many shapes and forms. Their sound is rooted in Punk, Metal, Indie Rock, Emo, Electronica etc., and despite their tender age and experience they have cut and cleared their own path, with the eye firmly planted on the future. If you want a precedent: put them in the lineage of AT THE DRIVE IN, REFUSED, MINUS & ATARI TEENAGE RIOT, because they are moving things forward. Believe.
River City Rebels : No Good, No Time, No Pride Cd on Victory
The River City Rebels return with their third release, No Good, No Time, No Pride, chock-full of fun tunes that will put ants in your pants. Pure ska tracks like "Drunken Angel" and "Pass The Bucket" are catchy enough to make listeners get up and dance, but have enough variety that the record doesn't become boring. The album clock in at just under a half-hour, perfect timing for a collection of fast and furious ditties
Rob : Don't Kill CD on Source
French multi-instrumentalist Rob follows up his first single ‘Power Glove’ and DJ-favourite ‘Don't Kill (Remix by Jack Lahana)’ with his debut album ‘Don't Kill’. Rob, a self confessed techno-phobe, gives us a slice of dreamy full-orchestral pop without any reference to sample and computers, unlike his French-touch counterparts Daft Punk. Rob has a uniquely Gallic slant on arranging, an inevitable legacy of indulging in music of Gainsbourg, the godfather.. Rob was first heard on Source’s highly acclaimed ‘Source Rocks’ compilation along with Phoenix among other hot French acts.
Rob : Satyred Love CD on Source
On his first album, ‘Don’t Kill’, Rob was probably one of the few musicians to successfully embrace a clear penchant for progressive rock, a marked taste for fat and sleek guitar sound, without falling into the trap of reactionary affectation. And he is the only one who can currently juggle variety—in the most genuine and least pejorative sense of the term—while incorporating outdated piano lines and light melodies. Rob owes his ease and success not only to his eclectic experience playing instruments (he does a little of everything: keyboards, trumpet, guitar, bass, background vocals, percussion, programming and drums), but also and more simply to his talent as an orchestrator and arranger and his obvious love of great and beautiful melodies. Work on his albums has landed him in the hospital every time. Since his first trumpet test at the age of 12, when he collapsed from blowing into his instrument too hard; to this new album, whose recording forced him to take to his bed for days under morphine treatment, Rob has tended to swallow life whole. More a pop tale than a rock opera, ‘Satyred Love’ is structured like a novel of initiation, an epic of romantic love. Symphonic flights, pop gimmicks and catchy refrains, through precise writing and orchestration. A sweet-natured dreamer, Rob has an extraordinary talent for projecting both himself and his listeners into a chimerical, magical world outside time
Chris Robinson : New Earth Mud Cd on Redline/EMI
Imagine an album full of Black Crowes ballads and you've got the solo record from their front man Chris Robinson. New Earth Mud is organic, acoustic and so full of gooey love that it melted even the coldest part of my heart. Well, almost. Robinson takes his Three Snakes And One Charm penchant for down-tempo vocals and instrumentation and creates some damn pretty songs. "Fables" rocks in its simplicity and "Could You Really Love Me?" is one of many indicators that, yes, Chris Robinson has the dancing hearts around his head for his woman, Kate Hudson.
Rocket From The Crypt (Rftc)  : Live From Camp X Ray
Delivered with more urgency then an ER ward, 'Live From Camp X-Ray' will drag you through a merciless journey of ass-shaking, explosive sound. Here is the latest studio full length that extends the saga of these San Diegan cultural cult-icons trail of fire - just as the 'garage' sound gets trendy - RFTC are back to remind that sound where it got its sound. As is their way, 'Live From Camp X-Ray' was recorded with the band all packed into the same room playing together."It's the only way rock should be recorded, in the same room, eyeballing the person next to you", says bassist Petey X. "You can't get that energy if you're not".
Rogers Sisters : Purely Evil CD on troubleman unlimited
The rogers sisters hail from brooklyn, ny and have been taking the city by storm with their unique mix Of garage/soul and post punk. Think a mixture of early b-52s/talking heads and the sonics. This truly unique blend of sounds works perfectly, and they have become a crowd favorite over the past year. Their live shows have become mini-events, with gigs selling out way in advance. They have been known To play for hours, sometimes playing songs twice in one set! People have called them the "first no – Wave party band". The tracks are loaded with soulful screams, sultry harmonies, and hot-shit Dissodant guitar licks mixed 1960s-esque soul-new wave get-downs. Quite possibly the most interesting band we have ever heard!
Rosemary's Billygoat : Evilution CD on Porterhouse
Brand new 2nd album from the l.a. O.t.t. Shock punk rock outfit. Dead kennedys meets black sabbath. The live show features a flaming pentagram and a fully operational electric chair, untold amounts of pyrotechnics as well as a er…one of kind ‘five-brain time helmet’! ‘evilution’ includes a satanic cover version of the pat benatar classic ‘hell is for children’ the monstrous lead track ‘i plead the fifth’ and the teen scream hit ‘665 ½’.
Rotten Apples : Real Tuff (Durable Plastic) CD on Empty Records
Real tuff by the rotten apples is all that! A rock & roll mix of wave and soul. This all female band brings you 10 rockin' songs of heartache, frustration about female stereotypes, road rage and the status quo. With ex- members of the pin-ups and the amazombies, this melodic punk four piece would surpass dusty springfield if the muffs had been her backing band.
Royal Beat Conspiracy : Dig It! CD on Bad Afro
The Royal Beat Conspiracy are back with their first album after two hard years touring Europe. These slick cats from Gothenburg, Sweden have taken time out to refine their sound and have come up with a fresh vibrant mixture of soul, rock’n’roll and rockabilly that will have their old fans drooling whilst appealing to the new breed of rock 'n' rollers. Following on from their acclaimed debut album 'Gala Galore, 'Dig It's!' ten songs are more focused and straight to the point, yet all the while retaining the bands diversity. From the keyword driven bossanova of 'Ghostrider Song' and 'St. Michael's Theme' to the hypnotic ballad of 'By Your Side' and soul stomper 'Good All Over' (the first single cut from the album), The Royal Beat Conspiracy once again deliver on all counts. For fans of Glucifer, Hellacopters & Dirtbombs etc.
Santana : The Essential Santana Cd on Columbia/Sony
From his 1969 hit "Evil Ways" to 1999's smash album, Supernatural, guitar guru Carlos Santana has achieved tremendous success over more than three decades. Longevity, however, brings both hits and misses. Despite the recent comeback, let's not forget that dark period in rock 'n' roll history known as The Eighties. Ironically, the comprehensiveness of The Essential Santana is its detriment. Arranged in chronological order, the double CD starts off strong with classics from Abraxas and Caravanserai but peters out with the '80s material. Nor are we rewarded with songs from his two latest collaboration albums.
Santana  : Shaman
Carlos Santana's latest album release, 'Shaman', the 37th of his career, spotlights a legendary artist at the peak of his powers. Produced by Carlos Santana and Clive Davis and executive produced by Antonio 'L.A' Reid, the new album is again (in the words of Carlos Santana) a "multi-dimensional" collection, bridging generations and cultures in a musical melting pot of creative partnerships. In addition to Michelle Branch, who guests on the album's first single 'Game Of Love',Santana was joined in the studio by fellow Arista artist Dido ('Feels Like Fire'), Citizen Cope ('Sideways'), Placido Domingo ('Novus'), Macy Gray ('Amore (Sexo)'), Melkie Jean and Governor Washington ('Since Supernatural'), Chad Kroeger ('Why Don't You And I'), Alejandro Lerner ('Hoy Es Adios'), Musiq ('Nothing At All'), Ozomatli ('One Of These Days'), P.O.D. ('America'), and Seal ('You Are My Kind'). The Santana band takes the helm on 'Adouma', 'Foo Foo', 'Victory Is One', and 'Aye Aye Aye' (a reunion with original 'first generation' Santana drummer Michael Shrieve).
Sand Pebbles : Eastern Terrace.CD on Camera Obscura
Debut CD for Melbourne, Australia band The Sand Pebbles. "an informed and doughty synthesis of 60s fuzz-pop & creative film scoring". The album is chock-full of soulful, guitar-driven sunset psychedelia, from shimmering Spacemen 3 style neo-psych pop-songs to acid-country balladeering to extended soundtrack rock bliss-out instrumentals. Including a cover of Julian Cope's "Out of My Mind on Dope & Speed.
Schneider Tm : Zoomer CD on City Slang
It's time to blast preconceptions of electronica as cold, minimal, distant knob twiddling to oblivion once and for all, and Dirk Dresselhaus, aka Schneider TM, is just the man to do it. His second full length album, Zoomer, harnesses a sublimely modern depth of musical vision to the hard won wisdom of life experience. Last year's 'Binokular' split mini album paved the way. Its stellar track was the stunning, and ubiquitous, 'The Light 3000', a breath-catching cover of The Smiths' 'There Is A Light That Never Goes Out', which spread virus-like to everyone and was embraced by everyone from die-hard indie fans to dance music softies and anyone who ever had a heart. With ‘Zoomer’, Schneider TM defies expectations of aural wallpaper electronica with a grace, passion, & wit that are the mark of a songwriter whose talents are in full bloom.
Seaworthy : Ride CD on Jetset
Reaching outside the Eastern parameters of his work with pioneering Indonesian-Garage rockers MACHA, Josh McKay casts a new and thoroughly narcotic vibe for himself under the Seaworthy moniker. Delivered as something resembling a song-cycle, this collection of material blends equal parts organic and electronic elements to create a hypnotic vibe throughout. Beginning with the massive riff work underpinning the "Open The Gates" instrumental, the equally powerful slow drive of "I Met Her In The Candy Store" is offset by the entrance of McKay's soft vocals. The guest vocal work of avant-Japanese vocalist HACO on "The Day" is a logical, but well-played addition to the roster of lush sounds. But it's dreamy tracks like "Sea Manta" and the brief "In Anticipation Of" that help keep "The Ride" aloft as a truly modern end-to-end listening experience. The album not only stands on its own as a solo project but as a another testament to McKay's deft visions in sound... for fans of Mogwai, Pedro The Lion, slo-core... on Jetset
Sex Maniacs : Mean As Hell CD on Eccentric Man
Yorkshire Superstars THE SEX MANIACS take pity on us, and unleash probably the most exciting debut album of the 21st Century! Formed by 3 ex members of Leeds Hardcore bruisers VOORHEES (and current members of THE HORROR & THE MERCY SUITE), this ain't no cry-baby emo or zonked-out stoner sludge snooze - This is straight up 100% high energy Rock & Roll!! 12 anthemic singalongs blaze by, taking no prisoners and leaving you with a fat lip, a spilt pint and a sore neck. You want comparisons?: Imagine AC/DC's "Powerage", RADIO BIRDMAN "Radios Appear" and CIRCLE JERKE "Group Sex" - how's that grap ya? Posititvely dripping with hits..... Catch them on the Eccentric Man tour in November alongside labelmates THE DUKES OF NOTHING & SCISSORFIGHT..
Ron Sexsmith  : Cobblestone Runway
'Cobblestone Runway' is Ron Sexsmith's sixth full-length release and his debut for new label Nettwerk/Parlophone. It is also his best album yet. "With all of my previous records, there are always things that bother me now when I hear them", explains a thoughtful and self-effacing Sexsmith. "I think this is the record where I've really got it right", he adds with a laugh. "It's the record that seems to have that mysterious combination of elements, all falling right intoplace". Recorded over the course of seven days in London last year, 'Cobblestone Runway' is a stirring and reflective collection of cool, propulsive melodies and warm, hopeful ballads. Textured with a deft blend of acoustic and electric guitars with keyboards, Sexsmith moves easily from the warm, hopeful swing of 'Former Glory' and the sweet, soulful 'These Days', to the soaring, choir-backed 'The Least That I Can Do' and the smooth-gliding, funk-flavored 'Dragonfly on Bay Street'. The haunting bonus track,'Gold In Them Hills (remix)', features a guest vocal appearance from Coldplay's Chris Martin. The two became friends after Sexsmith supported Coldplay on a US Tour last year.
Shearwater : Everybody Makes Mistakes CD on Misra
Shearwater’s addictive sound has been compared to cat power and richard buckner, fronted by two members of okkervil river though their true influences lie slightly further back in time. Everybody makes mistakes lovingly attempts to continue the thread of modern songwriter-oriented folk--the thread that ran through such albums as van morrison’s astral weeks, nico’s chelsea girl, tim hardin’s 1 and lou reed’s berlin. Everybody makes mistakes, the bands second effort, was conceived as a concept album about failure and bad decisions, a paean to the time-honored “sophomore slump”. The album benefits from the contributions of drummer/vibraphonist thor harris, the group’s recently added fourth member, who moonlights with the angels of light and lisa germano.
Sights : Got What We Want CD on Sweet Nothing
a high-impact mix of garage rock, psychedelia, and pop by a prodigiously young threesome" –billboard Magazine. That’s what was said about their debut. Now the word is out about their new full length, This young detroit three piece are about to release one of the best albums of 2002. Now a fourpiece With the addition of nate cavaleri on keyboards, (eddie baranek – guitar, vocals; matt hatch - bass, Vocals; dave shettler -drums, vocals) mix the high energy charge of the small faces and the power Drumming of keith moon, with some '70s boogie rock. Add a touch of phil spector and you get something resembling the sights. Every note of got what we want displays the band’s catholic attention to the Last 40 years classic pop and rock, the zombies and big star, the band and the rolling stones to Mention only a few.
Silver Pill : Martian Chronicles CD on amity records
The Silver Pill were formed in late 1999. Thus far the band have recored sessions for Radio One's Session in Scotland and Beat 106's Beatscene programme. They have appeared on television on Scottish Television's S2 Live and BBC Choice's In Session and have appeared at In the City, T in the Park and, most recently, Gig on the Green. The single will be reviewed in The List and NME and, aside from heavy airplay on Beat 106's Beatscene and Radio One's Session in Scotland, will also be featured on Steve Lamacq's Evening Session programme. Tracks from the single can also be heard on the Evening Session website (but, obviously, can't be downloaded). A smattering of southern Britain dates are currently being organised to coincide with the release. NME claimed they were "Ablaze with a Lunatic Glow". Scotland on Sunday claimed they possessed a "Divine Racket All of Their Own". The List, appealing to baser instincts, found them "Very Attractive", 'A psychotic swirlpool of molten geetar pop and twisted sample-delia.' Music Description: Incendiary indierock:The Breeders, The Pixies
Simian : We Are Your Friends CD on Source
On their highly anticipated second album 'We Are Your Friends' Simian's sound has been refined, filtered and concentrated - the result is a more pure and distilled form of Simian. The songs have moved from the skewed folky vibe, towards a more direct, stomping, Rock & Roll outlook. At the same time the production has gone from atmospheric, cerebral electronics to a tougher, more progressive take on Electro and modern American R&B. 'Chemistry Is What We Are', was made in a quiet, leafy avenue in a south Manchester suburb. 'We Are Your Friends' has been made in noisy, dirty, messy east end London and the effect is clear... Imagine the Beatles meet the Neptunes and have a lock in!! Simian have just completed a sell out tour with Echoboy and My Computer. National 10 date tour confirmed with USA coolsters INTERPOL - including an already sold out Scala date in London. Major supports still being hunted for - details to follow a full European tour and USA tour in the new year. Major fanbase hungry for the experience of the live simian and their Mobile Disco Madness!! Sessions to be recorded for XFM, BBC London. Peel Session. "Later" and other relevant shows - video for the single directed by award winning director PAUL GORE
Sing-Sing : The Joy Of Sing-Sing CD on Manifesto/EMI
Okay, so maybe expecting a release that features Emma Anderson (formerly of Lush) in the line-up to be anything but depressing would be stupid, but the minimalist, lo-fi, trip-hop music that is Sing-Sing is a bit much — or not enough. Maybe it’s just that I don’t understand, but by the fourth song (sung in a dreamy, airy voice), boredom set in to the degree that I continued listening only to reaffirm that I had no recollection as to what I’d just listened to. It’s that forgettable
David Singer : Civil Wars CD on Deep Elm
Critically praised as one of the undergrounds' most inspired songwriters, DAVID SINGER & The Sweet Science hail from Chicago and their heartfelt rock confessionals are an open dialogue of orchestral pop, fresh melodicism and mesmerizing poetry. His sophomore release, CIVIL WARS, scratches beneath the seemingly peaceful exterior of family life to reveal the true battleground, where Singer unveils his innermost struggle through a complex range of subtle storytelling and catchy melody. SINGER's sharp lyrical turns and textured twists of phrase are neither too obvious nor too obscure, and it's his willingness to experiment with melody, word play and instrumentation that takes CIVIL WARS from being a solid indie record to a stellar, stand out release. This highly accomplished collection of soothing, piano-driven ballads and intellectual rockers simply defies most categories. Press: "A record that so beautifully unleashes the essence of pop. Brilliant melodic songwriting". - All Music, "Channeling the Beatles via Elliott Smith, he reveals a sharp, sophisticated pop sensibility." - Chicago Reader, "Remarkably good...warm, lush, sophisticated, orchestrated pop. On the level of Elliot Smith". - Organart. * Recommended to fans of: Elliot Smith, Beatles, Nick Drake, Pavement, Richard Davies
Sinking Ships : Out Of Key Harmony CD on darla
the sinking ships are the latest holiday flyer/california oranges crew collaboration. The sinking ships explore more traditional pop/rock territory than previous endeavors of the sacramento crew and show some maturation and depth. The album serves as a showcase for katie's angelic vocal and verna's creative harmonies and bass lines. The band is led by the dynamic pop duo of ross & matt, who help propel these songs along with delightful fluidity and speed. The wall to wall chiming guitar sound of superchunk and velocity girl are stylistically balanced with the more classic modern rock sound of say the pretenders and matthew sweet. Infectious, blue-sunshine pop. A winning combination!
Sixpence None The Richer : Divine Discontent Cd on Reprise/Warner
It’s been a good while since Sixpence’s tender, cutie pie breakthrough single, "Kiss Me" (sorry if the sickly chorus is now fluttering in your head). Now they’re taking another stab at the alternative adult contemporary market. The predominantly acoustic Divine Discontent is full of whiny ditties of lost love and broken hearts. The lone bright spot is a cover of Crowded House’s "Don’t Dream it’s Over." Sixpence is suitable as the soundtrack to any Jennifer Love Hewitt movie or a Party Of Five marathon, but if you’re out of tissues you might want to check out Aimee Mann instead.
Skep : Static CD on Dockrad
Lookout! buzz band The Washdown's debut mini album. The Washdown is another of the new Lookout! bands giving the US underground a much needed shot in the arm. From Tampa, Florida, they've crafted a truly original style of 60's informed modern punk. The Wasdown mix the youthful intensity of bands like International Noise Conspiracy & ATDI with the swagger of the Starlite Desperation and Jon Spencer. Twangy, distorted guitar driven punk n'roll that's angular, intelligent and compelling. The Washdown have already been the subject of a heated major label A&R skirmish on the strength of their live show & demos, but Lookout! snapped them up for this debut self titled release.... 6 track mini
Sleater-Kinney : One Beat CD on Kill Rock Stars
Long awaited follow up to 2000’s “all hands on the bad one”. “one beat” finds the band expanding its dialogue by the experimenting with the dialects of pop, new wave, and soul in particular. Make no mistake: sleater-kinney is still very much a rock band. The album teems with anthemic rockers that contain a new palette of textures without sacrificing the visceral kicks. Seven years and six albums down the line, sleater-kinney is still doing what they do best – expressing themselves with passion, unbridled enthusiasm and continuous musical growth. Sleater-kinney have a massive fanbase.
Slipper : Zoon Sandwhich CD on Elsewhen
From Rephlex (Aphex Twin's imprint) to Elsewhen Records, 'Zoon Sandwich' is bizarre lounge tinged jazz from another time, another place. Slipper's second album, 'Zoon Sandwich', is a continuation of the critically acclaimed 'Invisible Movies'. With the flavours and tastes of an era not sampled before. It's Y2K2. In another universe. John Lennon, having finally given up all hope of his unpopular beat combo breaking big, is a retired postman now living in Birkenhead. John Lydon, a child pop star who rose to fame on Opportunity Knocks, has been tipped as the next Secretary-General of the UMN (United Microsoft Nations). And 'acid house' is the name of a new type of Barrett Home. The Chief Executive of Barrett PLC, Syd, thinks it's a winner. In this slippery parallel place, Slipper slip and slip and slip some more. Sam Dodson, who didn't play with The Transmitters or lead Loop Guru for almost 10 years, is Slipper's computer trickster. Linda Finger, who was also never a long-standing member of Loop Guru, sings. Jym Darling was never Mad Jym of Loop Guru, Headbutt, and Psychic TV. The line-up of the group is completed by two drummers, both called Rat Scabies.
Slow Motorcade : Sex, Drags And Rock N' Roll CD on Populist
Brand new mott the hoople meets the who meets the godfathers style rock n’ roll. ‘sex, drags and rock n’ roll’ is the debut album from this san diego based outfit featuring anthony castillo (spiders & snakes). Includes the power pop classic ‘missing in action’.
Kelly Slusher  : Rocks And Tears CD on Elefant
Rocks and Tears" is KELLY SLUSHER's debut album. From California, Kelly writes and sings melancholic pop songs that have been described as a cross between the sweetness of THE SOFTIES and the ethereal moods of LUSH - reminiscent of JULEE CRUISE's underground pop with a fragile dreamy touch. Kelly has had releases on Petset and Red Square Records, and collaborates with Jason Corace (A BOY NAMED THOR) in BOOTHBY, where Jason programs exciting electronic beats, and Kelly brings in her suggestive vocals. The songs in "Rocks and Tears" were recorded in late 2000 by Dustin Ruske from ROCKETSHIP. Here the background music for Kelly's voice is composed by her guitar, a shy beatbox and a delay pedal effect that envelopes her vocals, creating a mesmerizing effect. Uncomplicated, fragile songs that can bring to mind the best GALAXIE 500, CONFETTI, CAROUSEL or SLUMBER
Smog : Accumulation None CD on Domino
‘Accumulation:None’ is your Smog singles compilation companion - 10 of the 12 songs have appeared on 7” vinyl, six of the songs have never been released in Smog’s native US. Two of the songs were broadcast on UK radio, then released as b-sides and there’s a brand new song that has never before been heard by anyone – except by Smog (naturally), and the other people in the recording studio that day, and The Feds ...(!!?)Thus, this is the sounds of Smog from his gold, silver and bronze ages, with fresh life breathed into them once again, living under one roof for the very first time. Old songs and new flowing together, creating a composite viewpoint that accumulated over 10 years of time
Snailhouse : New Tradition CD on Snailhouse
New five tracker from Wooden Stars' Mike Feuerstack. Sombre, haunting, contemplative, introspective low key home paintings. Acoustic guitar, piano, cello and Feuerstack's plaintive, naked melancholy voice. Previous split 7" with Julie Doiron, other records and CDs on Grand Theft Autumn, Rhythm of Sickness, Sappy, etc. Recommended!!. For fans of: Belle and Sebastian, Rheostatics, Wilco.
Snapcase : End Transmission CD on Victory
The previous SNAPCASE release, 2000's “Designs for Automotion”, sold over 30,000 units sold outside the USA. And combined SNAPCASE releases are in the top ten catalogue sellers in Victory’s history. Over their 10+ year career they have established them-selves as a legendary act in the hard-core genre, SNAPCASE appeal to fans of all groundbreaking heavy rock bands ranging from TOOL and THURSDAY to the DEFTONES and NIRVANA
Snowblind  : Falls. CD
Manchester duo Jane Murphy and multi-instrumentalist Paul Williams, aka Snowblind (they took their name after a friend suggested the title of a book about drug dealing he was reading - although Murphy likes the nod to the Cocteau Twins' 'Sunburst And Snowblind'), make music firmly routed in the 'kitchen sink' tradition of the North Of England. Blending influences as rich and varied as early Postcard (Aztec Camera/Orange Juice), vintage New Order and John Barry, their debut album, 'The Falls'skips happily along amidst a chorus of acoustic guitars,Beach Boys harmonies and Bacharach-style brass;suffused with an atmosphere reminiscent of Sixties films like 'Saturday Night, Sunday Morning', 'A Taste Of Honey' and what Murphy calls that 'glorious Manchester Ship Canal feeling'. Includes the singles 'Cut' and 'Easy Girl'.
Sofandi : Ugly Demos.Cd on Thule Musik
A sophisticated album, gloomy and violent with a touch of jazz and blues and an ARAB STRAP feel about it
Soft Boys : Nextdoorland LP on Matador
Not a comeback, not a reunion and definitely not a retread, ‘Nextdoorland’ is pure and simply, the next Soft Boys album. After making a landmark album like ‘Underwater Moonlight’, you don’t want to rush right into a follow-up. So the Soft Boys took a little break. Alright, so it was more like 22 years, but some things take time. From the start, ‘Nextdoorland’ is absolutely the Soft Boys. The scathing Hitchcock/Rew guitar sound is all over the place; so are the killer hooks and harmoniesThe band’s darker side is well represented in the chaotic ‘Strings.’ But they’re no longer allergic to slower tempos or warmer sentiments: ‘Pulse of My Heart’ and ‘La Cherite’ (which manages to quote T.S. Eliot and Elvis Costello in the same line) are the kind of gorgeous, between-the-eyes pop songs they wouldn’t dare play in the old days. Hitchcock says. “Whatever people may make of my lyrics, the Soft Boys’ music belongs far more in 2002 than it did in 1980. For once, we’re on time.” Vinyl include free bonus 7” inch. Live Uk shows in October
SONIC YOUTH + ICP + THE EX : In The Fishtank CD on Konkurrent/Touch And Go
A number of years ago a certain cable music channel permitted Thurston Moore to rule the airwaves for an hour. Well-known for a range of strange habits, Moore played an eclectic collection including a homemade video of some guy smashing glass over tin cans in front of a Tokyo audience. The camera panned back to Moore, giddy as an eight-year old in a candy store, gleeful under a shaggy mop of hair. This penchant for noise has always been a trademark of Sonic Youth. The approach this time is minimalist, yet the end product is probably less accessible than anything they’ve done in the past. Joined by two Dutch bands, I.C.P. (the jazz trio, not a certain demented collection of rapping clowns) and The Ex, Sonic Youth have constructed 29 minutes of sparse, asymmetrical sounds. Recorded over a two-day period for Dutch art project Konkurrent, the 10 musicians recorded eight songs each titled as roman numbers. The record is silly, confusing and terribly amusing. Yet, at the same time, like the best of instrumental records (regardless of how experimental), startling and unrepentant in its demand that it be listened to and not merely over heard as background ambience.
Sonna / Sybarite / Lilienthal : Make Shift Carousel CD on Temp Residence
Flaunting just about every facet of sonna's dynamic range, these four tracks glide from punchy, guitar-driven electronic pop to dark, glitchy soundscapes. Acoustic guitars mingle with thumping drum programs and every sound is twisted into a gorgeous new groove. This brilliant collaboration with acclaimed electronic artists sybarite (4ad) and lilienthal (zeal) has churned out some of the sweetest, most heartfelt tunes, in grand sonna tradition. A must-have for fans of fennesz, nobukazu takemura and yo la tengo.
Sotos : Platypus CD on Cuneiform
‘Platypus’ is the second album by this instrumental chamber rock ensemble from Bordeaux, France. Sotos was formed in January of 1996. From the beginning the line up has been the same five young musicians on guitar, violin, cello, bass and drums, all of whom were students at the French National School of Music when they formed the group. In 1999, they recorded their first album which was released on the French Gazul label and met with great response, such as this review from Exposé: "... highly melodic and complex dark music...the best debut in a very, very long time.". ‘Platypus’ was recorded by the noted engineer Bob Drake, who has done fine work for 5uu's, Nebelnest, The Science Group, Thinking Plague and others, and the nicely recorded and balanced sound allows you to hear all the strong nuances of this rich and complex music. ‘Platypus’ is sure to be a 'best of the year' release to fans of Bela Bartok, Doctor Nerve, King Crimson, Magma, Igor Stravinsky, Univers Zero, Zypressen and other contemporary composers and ensembles.
Spoon : Kill The Moonlight CD on 12XU
Far less linear than 'Girls Can Tell', 'Kill The Moonlight' is as sonically advanced as it is lyrically daring; no longer rooted to a strict guitar-bass-drum format, Spoon's increased use of keyboards, self-created samples and implementation of studio effects is in stark contrast to the more traditionalist GCT. That said, there is no killer gimmick at play, the weapon wielded most often is Britt Daniel's brain. Always a master of melody, Daniel has veered further and further from what could be identified as a signature sound with each Spoon album --- there are few precedents for Daniel's channelling of Alan Vega on the claustrophobic opener "Small Stakes", much as the falsetto vocal w/ minimalist backing of "Stay Don't Go" sounds like nothing else in the bands' oeuvre. From year to year Spoon have built an impressive, fanatical international following. Despite some seriously lean years and harsh circumstances (innumerable exploding bass players, being banned from Wyoming until 2004, Daniel's recent brush with death via electrocution),the band have succeeded in creating their own musical vocabulary and their own creative identity
Squarepusher : Do You Know Squarepusher LP on Warp
Squarepusher is one of the most enigmatic and talented musicians in the world today. 2001’s ‘Go Plastic’ re-awoke the UK press to the world of Tom Jenkinson, and where they had tried to gloss over his more low key eps, they could not ignore a genius album driven by his garage smash ‘My Red Hot Car’. At the very end of 2001 an untitled Squarepusher 12” suddenly appeared in shops. The reaction to this 12” was astonishing, its twisted vocoder vocals and true originality, ensured rave reviews in all publications that review singles. This untitled track now has a name and features as track 1 on this new album, and is available on CD for the first time. As with ‘Go Plastic,’ more experimental mind melting tracks are interspersed with up beat rave stompers and a special treat; a respectful cover version of ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’ .This cd package also features an exclusive Live recording from Fuji Festival in 2001. For those who have not witnessed Squarepusher’s rare live shows, this cd is a must.
Squire Of Somerton : Tranverberations CD on Memphis Industries
MESMERIZING ALBUM FROM THE SQUIRE OF SOMERTON WHICH SITS NICELY NEXT TO ALBUMS BY OTHER ECCENTRIC POP FREAKS SUCH AS SIMIAN, THE CORAL, GORKY'S AND SFA. THE SQUIRE OF SOMERTON (aka Fort Lauderdale's Toby Jenkins) presents us with an album of psychedelic fantasy tales, epic transcendental journeys and cosmic vibrations topped off with several outlandish and outrageous cock rock solos. Equipped with a Fender amp and a flame coloured Charvel Model 6 guitar, the album is the result of a passionate two year musical affair of the heart, begun during a west country summer of love. *A wild trip through sound colours and atmospheric textures,'Transverberations' is strewn with lyrics mainlining a subconscious troubled by love, loss and evolution. *VINYL LIMITED TO 500.
Standard : August CD on Touch And Go
The standard formed in 1999 when drummer rob duncan (pinehurst kids) approached singer/guitarist tim putnam to be in the band he was starting up. Before long the standard had recorded their debut album for seattle's barbaric records. The pacific northwest quickly took notice of the standard and their inventive sound, which is highlighted by tim putnam's fragile and unique vocal style layered over the band's guitar and keyboard-laden tunes. August, recorded by jeff saltzman (stephen malkmus, sunset valley), is a record that keeps you guessing, with songs often traversing a broad sonic landscape of complex melodies, huge riffs, and explosions of intensity. Two guitars, bass, drums, and keyboards create a maze of textures for putnam's distinctive voice to work within, and the standard is noted for their emotionally charged and flawlessly executed live performances. This is a modern take on the post-rock phenomena,
Stateside : Twice As Gone CD on Fargo
A little dirty, a little sweet - Stateside populates its debut disc with punchy rockers that bear a power pop influence while retaining the Tennessee band's Southern roots. Frontman John Paul Keith was the V-ROY's original lead guitarist (3 albums on Steve Earles E-Squared label) and later led the more mod rockin' outfit, The Nevers (Sire Records). Stateside tunes like "Little Black Dress" and "Salt In The Wound" burst with urgency, while "No Such Thing As You" bears a roughed-up Marshall Crenshaw sound and "You Were Made For Me" is simply a classic pop love song. STATESIDE are currently touring as RYAN ADAMS backing band & are also members of the Adams rock side project THE PINK HEARTS (album due 2002 on Lost Highway).."Edgy Southern rock with a Britpop flair and occasional punk rock abandon. Unquestionably one of Nashville's best rock bands...the onstage swagger, the vocal ambidextrousness, and the spit-in-your-eye songwriting that rock-and-roll history is made on." -Rage Magazine, Nashville Featuring contributions from RYAN ADAMS and BUCKY BAXTER (Bob Dylan, Steve Earle).
Rubin Steiner : Wunderbar Drei CD on Obsessive
Think the jazz of St. Germain, the loopyness of Royksopp and the chill of Air… mix this with the vibe of Blue Note and you come close to the music of Rubin Steiner. While Rubin’s previous album, the dense and Dadaist ‘Lo-fi nu jazz vol.2,’ was made to fit the constraints of his voracious sampler, ‘Wunderbar Drei’ proves that Rubin Steiner is a talented musician and subtle arranger. His new pieces - such as Midi Jazz, Tango, Guitarlandia, Wunderlande, New Bossa and An Interlude For Charles Mingus - are no longer draped in borrowed finery, but fully orchestrated in their own right. Their development, construction and pitch is based on notes from physical instruments, providing a more panoramic range of possibilities. It is this taste for the organic, a sense of imperfection in construction, that will confirm his status as an electronic-scene outsider like Flanger or Christian Fennesz, refusing to employ the well-oiled machinery used by technicians who work with perfect loops and synthetic overlays. From easy listening to creative effort, as hedonist Rubin Steiner establishes his credentials, he still caters to the most eccentric of dance-floor clienteles. His music is a delight for both heads and legs, so pump up the volume!
Stereolab  - Abc Music: Radio One Sessions: 2cd
Stereolab have been described in a number of ways: 'Avant Garde MOR' and 'Ambient Boogie' are just two of the phrases coined by those who wish to pigeonhole the band - no mean feat considering Stereolab are one of the most original and indefinable bands of recent years. Their sound combines elements of such experimental stalwarts as The Velvet Underground and Neu! with material drawn from outside the conventional areas of rock - ranging from French '60s girl pop groups to stereo-testingrecords (which is where the name Stereolab comes from). Vocalist Laetitia Sadier's lyrics, meanwhile, contain an array of cool yet barbed tirades against orthodoxy, usually mixed low and/or sung in French, in subliminal contrast to the heady rush of buzzing Moogs and one-note guitar solos.
In the absence of a Stereolab 'Best Of' album, this release covers everything in the band's 10 year career, from their first Radio 1 session in 1991, to their latest in 2001. Including alternative versions of tracks from both their #26 album 'Emperor Tomato Ketchup' ('...their best record yet...marries brilliantly their twin loves: the avant-garde and pure pop - Q) and the #16 album 'Mars Audiac Quintet', 'The Complete Radio 1 Recordings' is as definitive a collection of the band's work as you could hope to find.
Streetwalkin Cheetahs : Quitars Guns And Gold CD on Munster
No doubt, one of the best rock bands coming from la in the last 5 years! This los angeles based detroit style four piece plays a searing combination of old school american punk-rock and modern high energy. This "new" swc record is made out of early gems, rarities, and live cuts, packed with all the energy and power of ass kicking rock&roll that the cheetahs know how to deliver. It´s a wild and impassioned collection of rare recordings where the streetwalkin´ cheetahs´ high voltage glam punk reminds of the best dead boys, mc5 and new york dolls. With special guests wayne kramer, bell-rays, etc.
Stuck Ups : Human Doll Express CD on Sympathy For The Record Industry
Hey motor & doll heads! Screaming out of seattle, smashing glass and breaking hearts, the stuck ups have unleashed album number two just for you. The anti-mogul has given thumbs up to human doll express, the stuck ups' sophomore release on sympathy for the record industry. Human doll express is set to coincide with a blitzkrieg tour of europe(london, paris, belgium...), including a throw down with the buff medways in london. This is essential. Three girls (and one boy) kicking, go-go'ing, screaming and fighting the righteous fight against the serious, the square, the mundane. You call it punk; they call it a job well done. For those about to rock, they'll abuse you. Fight the good fight.
Sugar Shack : Spinning Wheels CD on Estrus
Hey, punk! You still skatin and thrashin? Well, heads up monkey grunt, sugar shack is back in the park With a brand new round of full frontal lobe shattering texas ear trauma for ya! Entitled "spinning Wheels", this 14 track shack attack will get your lazy, pretty-boy new wave garage lovin ass off the Couch and twitching in no time flat, dig?! "what does it sound like?" you ask, rubbing your swollen, err, Gland. Raw, primal n dirty olde skool texan throw down laced with toxic traces of late-80s aussie Punch, mid-60s uk beat freakism, early-70s stonesy raunch, and good old fashioned, hair cut with a Broken bottle, bone snappin sugar shack ass shake! Combine the shack's ace songwriting prowess andFearless, no holds-barred live manuevers with the boneless production stylings of mister tim kerr And the end result is nothing less than staggering.
Suicide : American Supreme (Limited) CD on Blast First
Legendary New York duo Suicide release a brand new album, their first for 10 years. The first 1500 CD copies come with a previously unreleased, limited edition, bonus disc of the entire show of the second night from Suicide's 1998 "comeback" shows @ The Garage, in London. ‘American Supreme’, features 11 new tracks recorded over the last 12 months in New York. The album carries the distinctive Suicide sound, and is being received by fans & media alike as without doubt one of the finest albums of their long career. Viewed as one of the prime innovators of the current Electro-Clash scene, it seems, after a lifetime of struggle, intercut with some long, long gaps, Suicide are finally receiving their due respect. After already having the front cover of Wire magazine and eager anticipation from radio and journalists alike, American Extreme is the most accessible album to date and will not disappoint
Sunnshine : Engender CD on Game 2/ Underdogma
Virginia's SUNNSHINE (note double N reference to the amplification) have been pummeling crowds for years with their thick riffed walls of sound, topped with raw, emotive vocals and melodic riffs to die for. Imagine fellow Confederates ALABAMA THUNDERPUSSY crossede with CORROSION OF CONFORMITY & early SOUNDGARDEN. Excellent debut mini album..
Swayzak : Drty Dancing Cd on !K7
The third album from this collaborative dance duo walks a fine line. On one hand, you have the minimalist synthy electro sounds that belong in the goth clubs. On the other, you have this sorta dancey stuff that tends to lurk in the same electroclash bars that Peaches and company inhabit. The two aren’t so very different, but you’ll find yourself torn between flying to some smoky Berlin nightclub and acting like a sleazy tramp, or pulling out a long black dress and smoking clove cigarettes while dancing all swoopy-like. Regardless, Dirty Dancing is a darker and more interesting road than Swayzak’s previous work. And if the next album is called Roadhouse, I’m jumping in front of a train
Sweep The Leg Johnny : Going Down Swingin CD on Southern
Sweep The Leg Johnny is a rock and roll band that tours incessantly and composes intricate songs that develop themes and melodies over time. With the addition of Mitch Cheney (ex-Rumah Sakit), there are now two guitars that toy with one another, coaxing each other with fluid, yet precise lines that eventually meet at massive rhythms and walls of sound. "Going Down Swingin'" is Sweep's fourth lp. Dynamically, it has the power and the tightness of their live show and diligent touring, while touching moments of patience and delicacy. The album hinges on two 15 minute pieces that move effortlessly within themselves and among the diversity of the other tracks. It is engaging from start to finish... Avant-Rock For Fans Of: King Crimson, Don Caballero, Zu, Shellac
Sweatmaster : Sharp Cut CD on Must Destroy
Following hot on the heels of their debut UK single, ‘I Am A Demon And I Love Rock’n’Roll’, comes the debut album from Finland’s Sweatmaster. Raised on a diet of AC/DC, Thin Lizzy, Otis Redding and W.A.S.P, Sweatmaster’s stripped-down, loud and fun rock’n’roll has quickly made them the darlings of the Scandinavian garage-rawk scene with a couple of 7” releases and shows with bands such as The Flaming Sideburns and The Hives. Sweatmaster will be coming to the UK in October to teach it how to rock, Sweatstyle…Sunday 27th Oct - LIVERPOOL,Barfly, Tuesday 29th - LONDON, ‘Artrocker’ Rock’n’Roll Club, Wednesday 30th - LONDON, Thee Acid Ranch, Thursday 31st - LONDON, Garage (with The Darkness), Friday 1st - MANCHESTER, University (with The Darkness) (more dates to be added)
Sybarite : Nonmument CD on 4AD
‘Nonument’ pulls Xian's talents as an arranger and multi-instrumentalist sharply into focus. The ability to combine live instruments and programmed parts into a free-breathing, organic whole has always marked Sybarite apart from the electronica crowd, but ‘Nonument's deftness and lightness of touch is revelatory. Acoustic guitars offer mellow resonance, while string parts introduce tension and soft cadences by turns, and live drums join and part with programmed rhythms. Sybarite's palette is further widened by the introduction of trumpet (courtesy Matt Hilgenberg) and, for the first time, vocals (courtesy Brooke Williams and Gregory Kenney). Prior to this release, Xian has released 7” singles over the last couple of years on the Emanate, Zealectronic and Static Caravan labels (the best of which were compiled on the ‘Placement Issues’ album of last year) so ‘Nonument’ is, as good as, Xian’s first full album release. He also composed the soundtrack to the film ‘Kill Me Tomorrow’, which was released in 2000 on Temporary Residence under the title, ‘musicforafilm’. Sybarite will be playing live in Europe and America this Autumn
Ten And Tracer : Hour Brighter CD on U-cover
Ten and tracer's cd debut release is another step further in his sensitive musical output. After his very well received vinyl release on inc.us, this first work on u-cover contains 60 minutes neatly divided into 22 emotional tracks full of melodic layers and subtle idm rhythms that immediately find a Place in your mind and heart. As aleading light in the ever-developing north american electronic scene, ten and tracer seems to fit in as the perfect equivalent of uk acts like boards of canada and plaid.
Tender Trap : Film Molecules CD on K Records
Amelia fletcher has been a vibrant center of the k universe for over ten years now, with her many experiments in crashpop propulsion: first the punkific talulah gosh, which melded into heavenly and then the graceful marine research. She reemerges after a three year hiatus with the stripped to the bone pop-perfect tender trap. A collaboration with rob pursey (heavenly, marine research) and former marine research drummer dj on the sequences and keyboards, this latest amalgamation takes flight with resounding resiliency and speed. Tender trap songs are designed to be as clear and as simple as possible. Short songs, stripped down and with all the scaffolding removed to find out what lives inside. Discovering that even when rooms are completely empty they still house ghosts. Recorded mostly away from studios. Trying to understand the ways of sound molecules. Film molecules is preceded by the 45 “face of ‘73”, included here as well, it is just one of thirteen songs, each a cudgel of hooked-out popness. One of the main differences between this and the earlier material by these folks is the programming and sequencing by dj downfall, which, without sacrificing any of the raw emotive power, calibrates the feelings expressed to maximum effect.
Jennifer Terran  : Musician
Natural talent will out and the sheer determination that Jennifer Terran has demonstrated for some time is now beginning to pay off as the world wakes up to her vision. 'The Musician' is Jennifer's third independently produced and financed release and is a distillation of lessons learnt from previous works and ideas that have been long time in development. A solo singer-songwriter very much in the enigmatic, ethereal and strongly feminine mould, Jennifer's otherworldly approach to her arthasreadily drawn comparisons with the likes of Ani DiFranco and Joni Mitchell.
Text : Text CD on Buddyhead
TEXT is a Swedish group featuring all members of the late hardcore band REFUSED, minus one lead singer. David Sandstrom, Kristofer Steen, and Jon Brannstrom have collorated with numerous musicians to bring about what appears to be an experimental brand of sound that is as far away from Refused as one can get. Although the sound is a departure from Refused, this album was actually recorded before they broke up. The result is a peek into the final creative gasps of one of the greatest punk bands ever. ALL MUSIC GUIDE "Text has created the one of the most impressive, bewildering, and genre-blending records of the late '90s/early 2000s. The songs themselves are separate pieces, yet they are held together musically through excellent production, bold instrumentation, and overall vibes. This record contains songs that blend spoken word and jazz, hardcore rock and reggae, and others. The standout track on this album is "Sound Is Compressed; Words Rebel and Hiss." The 11-minute epic starts with a Euro-gospel/reggae groove that is very beautiful. The track moves slowly into a something darker. A somber male/female duet moves into a free jazz freakout that is amazing, powerful, and important. "We Have Explosives! - Schmexplosives" is an instrumental avant-garde piece that shockingly alternates from disarmingly spare to disarmingly abrasive and loud. Some of the record could be seen as pretentious, but with something as interesting as this record, pretense is welcome. The only problem with this record is finding ways to describe it. The only way to thoroughly describe the album is to listen to it. Fans of hardcore music, avant-garde music, and certainly Refused fans will not be disappointed."
The Birdwatcher : Afternoon Tales The Morning Never Knew (Arena Rock/Outside)
While his band Windsor For The Derby is so-indie-they're-barely-heard-of, Dan Matz also records as The Birdwatcher, an outlet for music that is markedly different than the art-school, indie jazz pop that he releases with WFTB. Afternoon Tales is a folksy mix that weighs heavily on you. The first half of the record is haunting, atmospheric and carries an inherent sadness. The second half picks up a bit, but Matz whispers his way through songs, trying to lull you to sleep. Like Beck's Sea Change, Afternoon Tales is about how the simplicity of a song gives it strength and beauty.
The Crescent : The Crescent : CD on Hut records
The Crescent - Wayne Whitfield (vocals/rhythm guitar),Karl Rowlands (lead guitar), Sean Longworth (bass),Joey Harrison (drums) - aren't here to help us through post-millennial tension, commiserate over the existential anxieties of M.E. or campaign for the cancellation of global debt. Leave that to neurosis-riddled rock stars. They're here to make the floorboards rumble, drive the neighbours crazy and to give rock'n'roll back its adolescent snottiness. Tune in, skin up,and don't stop till the going gets weird. Includesthe singles 'On The Run', 'Test Of Time' and 'Spinnin' Wheels'.
The Devlins : The Devlins CD on Nettwerk /EMI
Someone at Nettwerk Records must really like The Devlins. How else to explain the Irish duo’s longevity in an industry that discounts artists the minute they fail to sell a million copies? By that yardstick, the Devlin brothers should have packed it in long ago, but this is their third album, one that expands on (but doesn’t stray too far from) their established dreamy pop sound. Echoes of U2
sound throughout Consent, but The Devlins never really rock out, preferring to woo the listener with quieter charms. Producer Pierre Marchand (Sarah McLachlan) lends his usual knack for creating acoustic-based sound tapestries, setting sampled city sounds against a backdrop of strings on first single, "Static In The Flow." The Devlins have a timeless, cinematic sound that deserves to find more listeners. When Colin Devlin sings, "My time is coming" on "In Seville," you’re inclined to hope that he’s right.
The Donnas : Spend The Night Cd on Atlantic/Warner
Former teen punk princesses The Donnas make their jump to Atlantic with Spend The Night, an above average foray into a more rockin' sound. While their past releases have been chirpy and bouncy, Spend The Night is more along the lines of their glam-rock, Suzi Quatro-inspired live show. But while the sound is heavier, the lyrics remain along the get messed up, get laid, rock 'n' roll, ditch the loser boy continuum. Titles include "Who Invited You," "Dirty Denim" and "Too Bad About You Girl" — not exactly a far stretch for the band whose former hits include "Hyperactive" and "Are You Gonna Hit It?" As the cover suggests, this is an album to blast at slumber parties or while applying lip-gloss on your way to a party. This ain't rocket science. It doesn't have to be
The Eighties Matchbox B Line Disaster : Horse Of The Dog CD on Universal Records
Bursting into life from Brighton at the front of 2002, The Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster's Incendiary, chaotic,and breathtaking live shows, alongside the riveting debut single, 'Morning Has Broken', promised great things...so now they keep their promises by presenting a mouth-tingling, spine-watering taste of the 'Horse Of The Dog' that bit you. The first album (10 tracks, 26 minutes) to be released on the band's own 'No Death' records, 'Horse Of TheDog' is vertically challenged and horizontally challenging. It powers itself beyond excess, the sound of 1000 vehicles hurtling towards oblivion and glory. They're turning poison into medicine like alchemists on absinthe, so make like Van Gogh and lend it your ear. Includes the single 'Celebrate Your Mother'.
'Iggy Pop, At The Drive In, Black Francis and '65 era Jagger joyriding round Dead Man's Curve at midnight with the lights off screaming " I WANNA F*CK YOUR MOTHER!!!" before ramming headlong into a tree.F*cking incredible' - NME
'Effervescent ear-bleeding antidote to American pop-rock. Very, very intense' - Sleaze nation
'Turbo-Nutter, Jugger-Pop Mayhem to vapourise thecobwebs' - The Face
'If Playlouder were a band, it would be The Eighties Matchbox B-Line Disaster, and there is no higher compliment we could offer' - Playlouder
The Fairline Parkway : Same Cd on Lazyline
The gorgeous sound of the Fairline Parkway’s self-titled album will hit you as immediately as a Belle and Sebastian record does. That isn’t surprising, as the Scottish pop machine’s influence is felt throughout this indie rock gem. Soft, delicate vocals barely delivered above a whisper are common here, sung over a multitude of noises. The hypnotic "Threadbare" is paced by a steady beat and lifted by the jangle of bells and female backing vocals. "Bores Me" has tender vocals sung over a light snare, loopy bassline and pretty piano twinkling. Influenced by the best the indie world has to offer, Fairline Parkway show an obvious talent for creating lush, ear-pleasing sounds to make any music fan melt
The Fire Show : Saint The Fire Show.CD on Perishable
Saint The Fire Show" is the third release from Chicago's THE FIRE SHOW. This album documents the band's progression from the high-contrast art punk of their first two releases to a truly unclassifiable hybrid of Birthday Party/PiL post-punk, startling prog-inspired harmonic interplay, Tricky-esque textured beat interludes, forlorn ballads of raw-nerved heartbreak and funereal New Orleans horn dirges. Joined by members of CALIFONE, RED RED MEAT, VANDERMARK 5, WE RAGAZZI, ERIC ROTH TRIO
The Forty-Fives : Fight Dirty Cd on Yep Rock
The title of this Atlanta four-piece’s latest pretty much says it all. The band explode out of the garage with 12 soulful, guitar drenched tracks that recklessly jump the rails like a narcoleptic at the wheel of a transport. Fight Dirty is all sweat, dirt and bluesy rock at heart, but there’s also a certain mod/punk-meets-AC/DC X-factor that makes this CD so much fun. Songs like "The Devil Beats His Wife" and "My Kind Of Girl" hand out charging, string bending hijinks, while swirling Hammond organ lines bubble in and out of the mix. If you’re lookin’ for a screamin’ blues-rock album that’ll keep your party jumpin’ then Fight Dirty ain’t a bad choice at all.
The Headstones : The Oracle Of Hi-Fi CD on Universal
With a greatest hits compilation under their belts, The Headstones rock 'n' roll franchise seems to be squarely locked in place. Album number five, The Oracle Of Hi-Fi, is yet another collection of straight ahead hard rock with touches of metal, focusing on tales of revenge, debauchery, freaks and busted relationships. However, despite the band's notorious image as partyers, most of this disc sounds safe and pedestrian. No chills, no thrills — perfect fodder for the mindless loops of generic rock you hear in sports bars. It may be loud and fast, but it won't take your mind off the game. To quote the somewhat ironic track "Nothing Changes," for The Headstones, "it's time to step up/no more passing the buck."
The Jeevas : 1234 : CD on EMI
'1-2-3-4!' is the stunning debut album from The Jeevas, the new band formed in February of this year by ex-Kula Shaker frontman Crispian Mills. The 3-piece band are all in their mid-twenties and features Andy Nixon on drums/backing vocals, Dan McKinna on bass and more b/v's alongside Crispian's lead vocals/guitar. The band have been quietly warming-up throughout the year with out-of-the-way dates and have now become a formidable live act, an essence captured on 1-2-3-4!'.Recorded and mixed in 4 weeks from start to finish at Napoleon Road Studios in Crispian's home town of Richmond, these 10 tracks contain all the spontaneity and excitement of that new-band rush of energy, taking in the best of Bob Dylan, the Pixies and 'Pin-Ups'-era David Bowie. Includes the single 'Virginia'.
The Reunion Show  : Kill Your Television Cd on Victory
Holy crap these guys are ripping off Weezer. Okay, so it's not a carbon copy of the much loved Rivers outfit, but the heavy synthesizer/organ sound that The Reunion Show rock out with has a similarity to the "W" that can't be ignored. With Matt Sharap era harmonies and an innocence that's endearing, The Reunion Show are onto something. It's a pop-punk rock 'n' roll party and this Long Island quartet will be sure to get the crowds jumping, dancing and singing along with their infectious grooves (I challenge you to not have at least one sung stuck in your head after a listen or two). This band should only get better with age
The Sadies : Stories Often Told Cd on Bloodshot /Outside
God bless those Sadies for being so prolific. Even since making noise —and a name —for themselves as Neko Case’s back-up band, the Toronto cowpunkadelic quartet with the surf rock tendencies has released albums at a dizzying rate. Stories Often Told marks the fifth release for the Sadies in four years (if you count 1999’s Red Dirt, their collaboration record with Andre Williams), and this is undoubtedly their finest effort yet. While the record opens with standard Sadies fare — an instrumental spaghetti Western theme song with rollicking rhythm section, it’s the darker moments that reveal a pleasing maturation in the band’s songwriting. Softer melancholia and tender vocals are found more often on Stories than any Sadies record before it. Fans of the band’s swirlier tendencies will relish in their further explorations into the psychedelic folk rock similar to that of their pals Beachwood Sparks. These guys can really do no wrong.
The Stone Roses : Very Best Of (Ltd)
An outstanding collection of music, 'The Very Best Of The Stone Roses' provides the first truly comprehensive anthology of this incredible, generation-defining Manchester band. Spanning the Roses' entire career, the tracklisting for the first time unites songs from their eponymous Silvertone debut and the Geffen-released 'The Second Coming' and has been fully approved by the band (the first time Ian Brown, John Squire, Reni and Mani have collaborated since Reni left the band in 1995). The album comes complete with exclusive John Squire artwork and extensive sleeve notes from long-time Stone Roses commentator John McCready. All tracks were remastered from the original tapes at Abbey Road Studios by Chris Blair, overseen by John Leckie and (for the 'Second Coming' tracks) Simon Dawson.
'We wanted to be the first band to play on the moon" - Ian Brown

'The Stone Roses were the most legendary band of the late 1980s. They changed British pop byputting a cool street band back into the mainstream; they made pop and guitars cool again. They were part of their times, but they were also catalyst for the future. They took trad guitar music and breathed new life into it, and when they put out 'Fools Gold' they virtually invented the perfect 1990s pop record' - John Robb, 'The Stone Roses and the Resurrection of British Pop'

This limited edition comes in slipcase packaging and features 4 artwork prints.
The Strokes : Is This It.(US edition) CD with DVD on Rough Trade
King of the Rumbling Spires, anyone? Mungo Jerry meeting MC5 at CB GBs whilst Wire protest that they are, in fact, the fly in the ointment? One of the many charms of the Strokes over-hyped and over here debut,'Is That It?', is that it's hard to find anything to compare it with that's under twenty years old. Altered Images circa 'Insects'? Nah, never heard of? Well that's just downright unfair because all of the aforementioned are drenched in impeachable timing, tune-smithery andoff-the-shoulder, drop-dead style. As are The Strokes, whose unashamed plundering of punk attitood and the three chord portmanteau lends their take on music a kind of sneering aplomb safety-pinned to their own ear for the perfectly beguiling pop moment. Both the 'Hard To Explain' and 'The Modern Age' singles are here, as are 'NYC Cops' - as performed on UK's 'Top of the Pops' - and a whole thriving gang of skinny-ribbed masterpieces.  This limited edition US edition includes a bonus DVD containing uncensored video clips of the album's three singles - 'Hard To Explain', 'Last Nite', and 'Someday' - plus 2 live audio tracks recorded at an MTV show in Hollywood.
The Swallows : The Beauty Of Our Surroundings Cd on Magnetic Angel
It’s not inappropriate that the cover of The Swallows’ sophomore album was designed by Rick White. Like White’s band Elevator, The Swallows live in that space between harsh and mellow, alternately rockin’ the house and floating somewhere above it. Songwriter Glenn Milchem (who moonlights as Blue Rodeo’s drummer) has created a thick piece of brainy, sometimes psychedelic, rock that sets itself apart with unpredictable turns and wordy lyrics. Fitting somewhere between the rockarolla of Blurtonia (it was produced by Ian Blurton and features ‘Tonia drummer Randy Curnew) and The Rheostatics, Surroundings is an interesting, formula-free album that proves that Milchem has what it takes even when he’s standing in front of the drum kit.
The Telescopes : Third Wave.CD on Double Agent
After a 10 year gap, The Telescopes finally follow up their last album for Creation (1992's 'Untitled') with a brand new aural adventure entitled 'Third Wave'. After signing to Creation in 1990, following a succession of fine releases on Cheree and What Goes On Records, The Telescopes' signature became celestial male/female harmonies lovingly spread over languorous psychedelic pop grooves. This new album features experimental downbeat electronica & full on headmusic from the legendary psych outfit. Warm textured drones & sparce entranced melodics follow the freedom principles of avant garde jazz thru spaciously organic song structures. From dark introversion & beautifully stark minimalism to blissfull chaos & confusion
Theoretical Girls : Theoretical Grils CD on Acute
The theoretical girls may just be the most influential group you've never heard. This seminal late 70s new york no wave band created a body of songs and sounds influential on many of their contemporaries, yet external pressures and internal politics thwarted any official public release of their music at the time.and his emergent vision was to combine the raw energy of punk with his own classical compositions. To this end, he recruited glenn branca (guitar, bass, vocals), margaret dewyss (organ, bass, vocals) and wharton tiers (drums, vocals), and the theoretical girls were born. In their day, no other band better combined the visceral accessibility of punk, new wave and plain rock & roll with such avant garde takes on classical composition and sheer noise, and the quartet quickly became both a cutting edge assault on noise and an incredibly catchy rock band. This cd contains over an hour of original material, all unreleased except for one song which appeared on a ridiculously rare 45 over 20 years ago. After their demise, lohn returned to composition and the visual arts, branca found enduring fame as a creator of symphonic guitar music, wharton Tiers forged a career as a grammy award winning producer, engineer and studio owner, and dewyss recently returned to music with a vocal release on smells like, the label owned by sonic youth drummer steve shelley.
Thin White Rope : Spoor CD on Frontier Records
Sort of a greatest hits record--if twr had any hits! Obscure b-sides, cover versions from various tribute records, plus the best version of "some velvet morning" you’ve ever heard. Bonus: genius joe sacco album cover!
Kevin Tihista : Judo CD on Parasol
New album from chicago’s kevin tihista, a collection of beguiling, lush-pop orchestrations, the follow up to “don’t breathe a word”(blanco y negro). Utilizing an arsenal that includes sweetly sarcastic vocals and electric guitars, string & horns, bass & drums, kevin tihista has created a sophomore album of heartbreaking pop songs, richly arranged, incorpoerating the very best of the last forty years of pop music. For fans of webb brothers, the smiths, elliiot smith, todd rungren, big star, eric matthews & nick drake
Tindersticks : Trouble Everyday CD on Beggars Banquet
Tindersticks’ soundtrack to Claire Denis’ eagerly awaited and rather infamous new film ‘Trouble Every Day’ (starring Vincent Gallo and Beatrice Dalle) is released on Monday the 1st of October 2001 by Beggars Banquet. The film has been on release in France and other parts of Europe since mid-July, following it’scontroversial screening at the Cannes Film Festival, where it’s storyline featuring graphic sex andcannibalism caused a furore.his is the second time Tindersticks have worked with Denis (Nenette et Boni, 1996) and the film is herfollow up to the much-acclaimed ‘Beau Travail’. The album is an original score featuring the title theme, ‘Trouble Every Day’, which has already become a firm live favourite in the bands’ set. The soundtrack wasrecorded in London last summer by the band with a host of other musicians.‘Trouble Every Day’ will be available on specially packaged CD and deluxe limited edition vinyl.
Amon Tobin : Out From Out Where CD on Ninja Tune
Amon Tobin continues his adventures with the breakbeat on this, his fourth album. Darker, more complex, even more rhythmically driving and intense than ever before, this huge record will cement Tobin's reputation as one of the most innovative and important names in dance music today. "Out From Out Where" differs from its predecessor in that "Permutation" was made using only found sound (most of them generated by Amon himself) while here he steps back to some slightly more traditional sources (displaying in particular, a love of guitar licks). But when Tobin takes a sample source he is never happy until he has warped, filtered and fucked with it until it sounds like something straight from his head. And not just anywhere in his head, but that dingy, cobwebbed corner where no one should go. In fact, this has to be the most straight-up nasty album that Tobin has yet made - music with the power to genuinely disturb. Looking to the future, expect to see more whirlwind touring and an EP of collaborations with old skool legend Steinski, Bonobo, and Kid Koala cohort P-LoveAmon Tobin is the biggest selling act on Ninja having sold 300,000 albums worldwide.
Tocotronic : Tocotronic CD on L Age D Or
New from L'age D'or (home to Ascii.Disko, Golden Boy, Spillsbury etc…..) TOCOTRONIC are an alt. rock group who take the occasional detour into the electronic scene, both as TOCOTRONIC & in their side project Phantom Ghost . The new single 'This Boy Is Tocotronic' has something for everyone. Anthemic rock + electro + goth. "Excellent icy electro-guitar-clash-pop….a meeting of movements that comes good on the title track , landing somewhere between Grandaddy and New Order " NME Tocotronic are: Dirk von Lowtzow (Vocals, Guitar), Jan Müller (Bass), Arne Zank (Drums) - three twenty-somethings from Hamburg, Germany. A German pop phenomena, Tocotronic are signed to the small but perfectly formed L'AGE D'OR Records & have recently dented the top 10 National charts. Their first, self-produced and self-released 7-inch in 1994 "Wir sind hier nicht in Seattle, Dirk" (This isn't Seattle, Dirk) appealed to fans of the lo fi / home-recording scene. Their debut album "Digital ist besser" (Digital Is better) rocked with attitude. They have a way with angular language: the rhymes sound simple but the lyrics, while not overtly political express anti-nationalism, anti-censorship & a general mistrust of bourgeois media. Tocotronic's words and music strike a chord with their audience. They are playing pop music in the broadest sense of the word and their brand of upbeat electro - punk-pop has become increasingly sophisticated, without losing its instant hummability. More cool stuff from Germany
Jenny Toomey : Tempting CD on Misra
Backed by calexico: tempting is a record of 12 songs written by the fabulous franklin bruno and recorded by the world's best musicians and sung by jenny toomey. You'll swoon to the calexico-fried forms these songs took once we got joey burns and john convertino in the room. Mr. Convertino in particular is all over the record, supplying the classic backbeat to the one-woman supremes on "every little bit hurts," and digging out the perfect percussion instrument for the forays into calypso and bossa nova territory. As for franklin, well, we convinced him to leave the distortion pedal at home and tickle the keys, the vibes, the occasional guitar...and the tiny, detuned banjo that was laying around our engineer craig schumacher's wavelab hit factory. Franklin listened to jenny¹s tales of woe, pulled some songs that fit the situation from his extra-large piano bench, and wrote a passel of new ones just for jenny to sing, as if she were judy garland to his harold arlen and e.y. harburg, or elaine stritch to his stephen sondheim, or dionne to his burt and hal, or...you get the point. After all this.
Trabant : Moment Of Truth CD on Thule Musik
NEXT POTENTIAL SUPERSTARS FROM ICELAND.RECENTLY WON THE BEST DEBUT ALBUM OF THE YEAR AWARD AT THE ICELANDIC MUSIC AWARDS, AN ACCOLADE PREVIOUSLY HELD BY GUS GUS, MUM and SIGUR ROS...........TRABANT are MASSIVE FAVOURITES at MUZIK MAGAZINE, making the single 'Enter Spacebar' (TMU06/cd) MAIN SINGLE OF THE MONTH - "CONTAINS MATERIAL THAT COULD GO HEAD TO HEAD WITH MOBY, LEFTFIELD, ZERO 7 AND ALL THE OTHER CROSSOVER SORTS, AND IS AS CHEEKILY FAR AHEAD OF ITS TIME AS 'PIPER AT THE GATES OF DAWN' WAS DURING ITS OWN ERA". *Being collectors of strange/broken/old instruments and electronic toys, Trabant's music is dynamic in texture and rich with colourful sounds. The songs range from super corny power ballads to electronic frenzies but inbetween youll find every possible musical aspect there is.... FILE NEXT TO: P-FUNK MEETS PIGBAG AND PERRY COMO WITH ON-U SOUND AT THE CONTROLS
Transplants  : Transplants
The Transplants might not conform to the textbook definition of a punk rock supergroup (or anyone else's come to that), but with a line-up that includes Rancid's Tim Armstrong and Blink 182's Travis Barker you should at least have a fair idea of what they sound like: fast, furious and very, VERY loud. Featuring guest appearances from Brody Armstrong (The Distillers), Davey Havok (AFI), Sun Doobie (Funkdoobiest) and Vic Ruggiero (The Slackers), 'The Transplants' showcases a highly original mix of stylistic influences, but never strays too far from the home base of punk rock; managing to incorporate such disparate elements as blistering hardcore guitars, hip-hop and dance hall beats, rap rhymes, and an overall un-wavering dedication to the spirit of Rock 'N' Roll.
"Transplants songs are over the top. We talk about stuff I can't even mention. Some of it is as hard as you can possibly get. It's so punk it's stupid. It's reallyinfluenced by old English Dogs and G.B.H., that kind of stuff. Then some of it is really hardcore drum and bass. It's weird" - Travis Barker
Tribute To Nothing : Act Without Words CD on Lockjaw
With a new guitarist and a brand new album, TTN exudes a new energy & vitality which has been captured on this their fourth studio album. Guitarist Kris who joined the trio in February 2002, has given the band a new zest for their music. The songs on ‘Act Without Words’ have a maturity, melody and appeal that is of the moment.
Mick Turner : Moth Parts 1 - 19 CD on Drag City
A third album in the instrumental non-rock field from this acclaimed member of the dirty three. Mick Turner has contributed his composing and guitar playing to recent recordings by bonnie billy, Bonneville, the dirty three and catpower. Cover artwork is a painting by turner. The music itself is Stark and instantly recognisable as the work of turner, drifting guitar, loops swaying, stark piano, And almost eerie soundtrack.
Two Dollar Pistols : You Ruined Everything Cd on Yep Roc
Tired of alt.country, country swing, new country? A healthy dose of the Two Dollar Pistols is what you need. They're the real deal, dishing out the kind of country I remember from the days of my parents spinning Marty Robbins, Merle Haggard and George Jones records. No pretensions, no soft rock masquerading as country, and not one fuckin' ironic, "ain't we clever" bone exists in this fine group of players. This is genuine twangy guitar trading off with beautiful steel pedal stylings, a shuffle on the drums, lead singer John Howie's perfect country baritone and a whole raft of songs about hurtin', hurtin' and hurtin'. New Country is dead. Long Live the Two Dollar Pistols!
Ultramarine : Everyman And Woman Is A Star CD on darla
absolutely essential, classic, electronic pop record. In 1991 electronic duo ultramarine recorded their landmark laid-back album "every man and woman is a star", released in this form by rough trade in 1992 to great acclaim and eulogized by simon reynolds in his book energy flash: "all sun-ripened, meandering lassitude and undulant dub-sway tempos… like acid-house suffused with the folky-jazzy ambience of the canterbury scene." as well as the sublime single cuts stella and saratoga, the album offers a mesh of acoustic textures underpinned by a sometimes dubby, sometimes upfront beat. It's a lavish mix of light yet infectious rhythms and mellow vibes, recalling lazy afternoons and bright summer seascapes. Largely instrumental, the album also features lyric snatches from kevin ayers and robert wyatt, while on stella the found voice speaks to the "deepest part of the soul."
Unknown Ghosts : Transfer At Dub CD on Underground Inc
The Unknown Ghosts is an ongoing collaboration with WITCHMAN’S John Roome at the production helm. Heavy on the beats and bass, Transfer at Dub features such artists as Alex Paterson (THE ORB) as well as upcoming artists like LIVSTROMPET and BE-1NE. Over the previous 12 months John has been touring the globe as part of the ORB as well as adding some flavour to the new ORB album. He has contributed 2 tracks to the Ultra Chilled series. The last couple of years have seen John supply Production work for the likes of Ian (THE CULT) Astbury, THE ORB and FINITRIBE as well dropping highly touted remixes for artists as diverse as CORNERSHOP, CURVE, GARY NUMAN, THE CREATURES and CLAWFINGER.
Ursula 1000 : Kinda Kinky .CD on 18th Street
Ladies and gentlemen, URSULA 1000 has done it again! 'Kinda' Kinky', (the follow up to his critically acclaimed cult debut), sees the king of superfunkyelectrodiscosambahousebigbeatbreaks twisting our minds and senses with his latest long-player. From the sock-hop at the Playboy mansion grooves of 'Kinda' Kinky' to the double bass laden beats of 'Smokebomb', 'Kinda' Kinky' is romp through the mind of URSULA 1000's guilty musical pleasures. Tracklisting: Kinda Kinky, Boogaloop, Beatbox Cha Cha, Jackie O, Smokebomb, That Hindu That You Do, Les Techniques De L' Amour, Continental Break Feast, Mucho Tequila, Tigerbeat, Riviera Rendezvous, Samba 1000, The Girl From Nowhere, Nightcap.
V Twin : Blues Is A Minefield CD on Domino
Domino misfits V-Twin return from their rock hiatus with their stunning debut album ‘THE BLUES IS A MINEFIELD’. Ancient & modern, dark, exotic, playful, violent & funny – these adjectives only begin to describe what this holds in store. Geared to waking up tired ears & blowing cobwebs away - the Twin are back!! Rocking like the Stones’ ‘satanic’ era this album is indeed their call to arms. ‘THE BLUES IS A MINEFIELD’ is a visionary album that melds electronic and organic sounds seamlessly eschewing great rock n roll moments past, present and future...from Bowie to Aerosmith to the Primals & the current garage rock explosion from both sides of the Atlantic. V-Twin have walked through the darkness and the blues is a minefield resounds with barbed laughter.
Va: Nme  - One Love: War Child
Compiled to celebrate the NME's 50th Birthday, and the anniversary of the world's first ever singles chart (launched in the NME in 1952),'1 Love' celebrates five decades of life-affirming music by combining the most exciting artists of today with some of the greatest number one songs...ever! With a line-up that reads like a 'who's who' of contemporary music, featured artists include Starsailor ('All Or Nothing'), The Manic Street Preachers ('Out Of Time'), The Stereophonics ('Nothing Compares 2 U'), Oasis ('Merry Christmas Everybody') and Badly Drawn Boy Feat Jools Holland And His Rhythmn And Blues Orchestra ('Come On Eileen').
Va  : Rise Above: Black Flag Tribute
Slayer's Tom Araya, Slipknot's Corey Taylor, and QOTSA's Nick Oliveri are the among the artists giving voice to 'Rise Above', an album benefiting the convicted killers known as the West Memphis Three. Released through Henry Rollins' 2.13.61 label via Sanctuary Records, the LP was spearheaded by Rollins and features guest vocalists singing tunes originally recorded by the hardcore veteran's previous band, Black Flag. Other guest musicians include X's Exene Cervenka, Motörheadfrontman Lemmy Kilmister, Hank Williams III, Rancid's Tim Armstrong/Lars Fredriksen, and Black Flag bassist Chuck Dukowski.
"I became aware of the case like many people, from watching the 'Paradise Lost' documentaries that HBO released. The first one shocked me and made me upset. The second one made me mad. Damien, Jessie, and Jason were found guilty of murdering three boys and sent to prison. I didn't agree with the verdict. I figured that to do nothing about that would be to align myself with the forces of injustice that got them pulled into this horrible situation" - Henry Rollins
Josef Van Wissem : Narcissus Drowining CD on Persephone
On 'Narcissus Drowning', Josef Van Wissem performs repeats of palindromes (structures which sound the same backwards as forwards) on lute, beats and electronics. The applied electronics make for a spooky addition to the hypnotic serene sound of the lute. Special guest is Gary Lucas (ex-Captain Beefheart, Jeff Buckley) on three tracks. 'The Mirror Stage' is a haunting 'palindromic' version of Kraftwek's 'Hall Of Mirrors' with Lucas on slide dobro, and on 'Tijuana Round' the suspense is enhanced by the minimal but blunt bassdrum beats below the electronic medieval drone. Press: "A perverted inversion" - The Wire, "Potentially dislocating" - The New Yorker, "This medieval; sampling is darked atmospherically by the sound of the lute and electronics. Remarkably un-ancient this record" - Jazzthetik.
Velvet Crush : Soft Sounds CD on Action Musik
Soft-rock odes & tender ballads from revered-around-the- world pop duo, ric menck & paul chastain, aka velvet crush, recorded over the last two years with longtime associates matthew sweet, greg leisz, jeffrey underhill, and matt lynch. 'Soft sounds' includes covers of the box tops' "rollin' in my sleep", "save me a place" from fleetwood mac's classic 'tusk', and a scott walker staple, "duchess". For fans of velvet crush, matthew sweet, teenage fanclub, rundgren, byrds, beatles…
Vhs Or Beta : Le Funk CD on On Records
Lousiville, Kentucky's VHS OR BETA bridge the gap between rock music and dance. 'Le Funk' is a glittzy mish mash of post punk funk and raucous disco, it's house music played with the intensity of Sonic Youth and the attitude of arena rockers Boston. In a thinly veiled shout out to VHS' fave producers (Daft Punk, Dimitri) 'Le Funk' exists at the intersection where nightclubs meet arenas. A live band at heart, their breakdowns, climaxes and ecstatic wah-wahs come from real guitars, bass and hi hat abusing drums.
Violents : Rebecca's Morning Voice CD on Mud Records
Local female punkpop power-trio have been giving the scene a righteous shake-up for over a year now, this is their debut album… a musical blend the chainsaw, kill rock stars, k records aesthetic with echoes of former champaign powerhouse sarge, the violents are the power of grrrl power incarnate... From the strummy and smoldering opening peals of "sledding" to the raucous riffs of combustible live favorite "pants of flame", the violents have injected each song with a degree of angst and intimacy that is confounding… for fans of totally rockin' chicks like sleater-kinney, bratmobile, the butchies, team dresch, the breeders, corndolly, sahara hotnights...
Viva Las Vegas : Viva Las Vegas CD on Acuarela
Viva las vegas is the new band formed by josé luis aguado and frank rudow, singer and non-percussionist – respectively – of spanish top indie band manta ray. On this project they benefit from the possibilities of sonic experimentation, blending together mathematical distance and deep emotion. They create songs that immediately could be placed among the same musical boundaries inhabited by bands like royal trux, come, libraness or modest mouse. Yet there’s an unmistakably european twist to their music, bringing to mind that created by dominique a, yann tiersen or experience’s more introspective moments..
Waco Brothers : New Deal CD on Bloodshot
Chicago/Leeds saviours of country and rock submit their sixth record for widespread dismissal by the powers that be. Those who have seen them know that the Wacos are the best live band on the planet. Their shows are the stuff of legend and are boozy, sweaty affirmations of the transformative powers of rock and roll. What often gets lost in the steamy, sozzled aftermath of shows is that, over the course of the past eight years, the Wacos have produced a body of work that is consistently innovative and wildly entertaining, loud and literate, personal and political. Few bands, if any, in today's landscape can so fearlessly embrace such a broad range of influences, throw them into the Waco-izer, and emerge with fresh ways to gleefully and despondently tell it like it is -- the warts, the injustice, and the crushed dreams -- without batting an eye or spilling a drop. The Waco Brothers are led by punk/roots rock l'homme de renaissance Jon Langford (Mekons, Three Johns, Pine Valley Cosmonauts), and supported by Deano Schlabowske, Steve Goulding (Mekons, Graham Park and the Rumour), Mark Durante, Alan Doughty (Jesus Jones), and Tracey Dear. In their rollicking career, they have been called everything from the flagship act of the alternative country "movement" to pure butchery. Both are likely to be correct. MOJO review (to run October issue) "Twelve scorching new cuts from the best bar band on the planet. While the Mekons' Fear And Whiskey established Jon Langford's interest in country and roots rock, his solo career confirmed it. After relocating to Chicago, Langford formed the politically-bent Waco Brothers in '95, fusing hard-rocking honky-tonk with a whiskey-drenched country base, and headed straight to the road. Seven years - and some two thousand shows later - the Waco Brothers recorded New Deal, their sixth release. Langford's in perfect form here, taking on social ladders and societal walls and crashing through every one. Alan Doughty, Steve Goulding, Tracy Dear, and a cast of others provide a raucous backup that's part Drifting Cowboys, part Clash - and even better than you'd expect. "Alcohol, freedom, and a country song/I've been waiting way too long," Langford sings on AFC Song. Consider it a rallying cry, folks: we'll meet you at the bar. Drinks are on me - as long as the Waco Brothers
Walkabouts : Watermarks Selected Songs 1991 - 2002 CD on innerstate
This anthology brings the best of the walkabouts many albums on virgin, glitterhouse, and innerstate together on one cd. 16 great songs, nearly 80 full minutes of classic walkabouts music featuring guests like brian eno, peter buck and the warsaw symphony orchestra. All in a beautiful 8-panel digipak with an 8 page booklet containing many unseen photos and detailed liner notes by noted music critic jud cost. Fronted by the dual singer/songwriter team of carla torgerson and chris eckman, the walkabouts create some of the most achingly beautiful music to ever come out of seattle.
Warlocks : Phoenix Ep CD on Birdman
One of the bands to watch in 2002, this limited edition ep from the warlocks features 2 songs from the forthcoming (due in october) "phoenix" full length, with 2 exclusive tracks on the vinyl version, and a further 4 (8 in total) on the cd version (totalling 70 minutes) major labels will snap these guys up by the end of the year, this ep is the perfect stop gap between their debut on bomp from last year and the new full length! Their psychedelic hurricane rock / pop mastery is created by two drummers, four guitarists, bass and keyboards. Led by former brain jonestown massacre member bobby hecksher. Amazing pop mixed with sonic psychedelia, like spiritualized meets the high llamas meets pink floyd meets spacemen 3, check this out!!!
Washdown : Washdown, The CD on Lookout!
Lookout! buzz band The Washdown's debut mini album. The Washdown is another of the new Lookout! bands giving the US underground a much needed shot in the arm. From Tampa, Florida, they've crafted a truly original style of 60's informed modern punk. The Wasdown mix the youthful intensity of bands like International Noise Conspiracy & ATDI with the swagger of the Starlite Desperation and Jon Spencer. Twangy, distorted guitar driven punk n'roll that's angular, intelligent and compelling. The Washdown have already been the subject of a heated major label A&R skirmish on the strength of their live show & demos, but Lookout! snapped them up for this debut self titled release.... 6 track mini
Waxwing : Nobody Can Take What Everybody Owns CD on Second Nature
So when exactly was it that rock ‘n’ roll got completely co-opted? Now, we're not talking about major label businessmen giving bands shit deals or artists selling out and such. Rock was always about girls, cars, money and the like, so, truthfully, anything rock 'n' roll related should be about one-third evil on principle. No, what we're talking about is that, somewhere along the line, rock 'n' roll went from Chuck Berry singing "My Ding-A-Ling" to Waxwing's "Everything's On Fire" or "The Worst Kind Of Liars." That's not to say Waxwing and Chuck Berry sound similar in any way, but it's meant to illustrate that where rock 'n' roll's soul was once dangerous it's now controlled by heartbroken nancy-boys. Listen fella, there's other girls out there. Or boys. Whatever. Get over it.
Weapon Of Choice : Illuminutty CD on Nuttsactor5
Sly meets monk meets agitprop funk. W.o.c. leader appears on the perry farrell album and has recorded with macy gray, fishbone and snoop dogg. ‘illuminutty’ features arick marshall (former red hot chilli pepper). Tightly executed grooves and angry political lyrics.
Weirdos : Weirdos World Vol 1 CD on Frontier Records
An absolutely essential collection that proves why the weirdos are la's most important punk band. Every song is either previously unreleased or a different mix even if it's from a 45 or ep. Brilliant!
Wevie Stonder : Drawing On Other People's Heads.Cd on Skam
IMAGINE LOCKING BOARDS OF CANADA, WEEN AND A SHEET OF LSD IN A WHITE PADDED ROOM FOR 2 WEEKS.....THIS COULD BE THE RESULT. Wevie Stonder combine electronic music, live instruments and unpredictable narrative. "Never before have Skam sounded like this...and it's brilliant, an album full of rediculous songs about chimps, barge dogs and building your own house...a must"
Whitmore : Pack Of Three.CD on Moonska
Previously available on export only, this box of three CD-EP’s includes the bands debut single "260" and their second single "Nine Bar Blues". The box also includes the "Hat Club Presents" CD EP exclusive to this package featuring the tracks "Hat Club", "Famous Last Words", "The Last (Fuck That)" and a cover of EAST 17'S "Stay Another Day". One of the UK’s top like ska punk bands!!
Who Is The Daddy Now : Live CD on wtdn
WHO'S THE DADDY NOW - live album ("the only Carter USM tribute band to feature all the original members"). The official live bootleg of Who's The Daddy Now? Tours I & II recorded in Sept and Dec of 2001. Featuring live performances by Invisibles, Abdoujaparov, Jim's Super Stereoworld and Who's The Daddy Now? Including WTDN? playing a bunch of Carter USM classics, finishing with the traditional Carter USM encores Tracklisting: THE INVISIBLES: 1.Dipsomaniac, 2. Hexical Head, ABDOUJAPAROV: 3.Aren't We All, 4. Shut Up, 5.Maria's Umbrella, JIM'S SUPER STEREOWORLD: 6. Big Flash Car, 7.Young & Dumb & Full Of Fun, 8. You're My Mate, WHO'S THE DADDY NOW?: 9. Daddy Intro, 10. Surfin USM, 11. The Beeper Song, 12. Sealed With A Glasgow Kiss, 13. Daddy Christmas, 14. The Only Living Boy In New Cross, 15. Sheriff Fatman, 16. Bloodsport For All, 17. G I Blues
Mans Wieslander : Yet CD on parasol records
The third album and stateside debut for swedish songwriter måns wieslander, a collection of quietly intense and heartbreakingly profound popsongs draped in lush, gilded sonic tapestries. At times intimate and hushed with strummed guitars, at others cathartic with bombastic guitar heorics, "yet" is a beautifully assembled and arranged, studio savvy album, five years in the making, led by one of the richest voices in pop music today… måns is: an accomplished songwriter and aural doppelganger for pop icon adam schmitt. 'Yet' comes highly recommeded to fans of adam as well as robert forster & grant mclennan from the go-betweens, mark eitzel, folk implosion, robyn hitchcock, and robert pollard.
Kathryn Williams : Old Low Light
'Old Low Light' is the beautiful third album from Mercury-nominated singer-songwriter Kathryn Williams. Even more than its two predecessors, 'Old Low Light' is a delicate, restrained record that tackles big, difficult themes with a cool head. Standout tracks include the wonderful single 'No One Takes You Home' ("You dress yourself to the top of your knickers"), the deceptively simple 'Tradition' and the quietly spooked 'On For You'. "You've heard of a 'wall of sound'? Well, what I do is more of a trellis" - Kathryn Williams
'The most satisfying album of the year so far'- ***** The Times
'A sly little fox of an album' - **** Q
'A magnificent third album' - ***** Marie Claire
'...anyone who opens their album with two minutes of just voice and pulsing double bass, as she does here, has to have a courageous confidence in her material. Recommended' - The Independent
Witches : On Parade CD on fall of rome
The detroit band with the supernatural sound. How do you describe the witches? The rock band in a fassbinder/ sid & marty kroft production? New wave basement blues? How about, songs that lou reed and petula clark would pen after doing whippets and malt liqur all night in the parking lot of a haunted carnival? However you describe it, the witches are here to berighten up your world!! The motor city band’s been around since 1996, this is their third and best album to date. Fronted by troy gregory (don’t be put off by his stints in flotsam & jetsam and prong) the witches’ sound is a dark, reverb heavy mix that can give you the creeps but still make you feel warm and fuzzy all over. Recorded / produced at ghetto recorders with jim diamond.
Peter Wolf : Sleepless Cd on Artemis/Sony
The way to see how far Peter Wolf has travelled since his days as the frontman for the J. Geils Band to where he resides on Sleepless is simple; Compare the version of Otis Rush's "Homework" on J Geils’ Full House with the rendition on this new disc. The first is driven by a wild youngster and one hell of a hot band, while this time it's an older, more sedate singer with a bunch of session men. He doesn't come anywhere close to embarassing himself like he did in the early ‘80s when the whole J Geils Band seemed to have gone off the deep end, spewing shit like "Centerfold" and "Freeze Frame." Classic rock fans will be happy to see cameos from Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, as well as former J Geils harp player Magic Dick.
Woodstar : Time To Bleed CD on Regal
Woodstar’s music finds a way of transforming the sad and mundane into music which is in turn melancholic and beautiful. Woodstar formed in the Summer of 2000. They immediately began recording three songs, ‘These Scars’, ‘Sorry Skin’ and ‘She Catches’, on the eight track in their freshly built studio. Without even trying, they had found their emotive, shimmering sound. By April 2001 they’d duly won the Bacardi/HotPress Plugged Band Of The Year. ‘These Scars’ was nominated for HotPress Song Of The Year, and began to get national airplay. Though not fully representative of their ambition and sound, which also harbours a rough punkish quality, it’s a stunning debut that serves as a wonderful introduction to Woodstar.
Woolworthy : Recycler CD on Boss Tuneage
Stunning 23 track compilation from Chicago's hotly tipped indie rockers WOOLWORTHY. Though 'Recycler' kicks off with three ace new tracks it also comprises the best tracks from Woolworthy's first two out of print albums and all six from last years brilliant 'Blasted Into Ashes' mini album that's also - yes you guessed it... out of rint. After Woolworthy's first UK tour last year Punk bible Fracture saw fit to award the band with ninth place in their end of year 'Best Punk Band In The World' readers poll and described them thusly 'All the best bits of THE REPLACEMENTS and mid-period GOO GOO DOLLS - but better!'. Other great press the band got at the time read kinda like this... 'Not only the best Boss Tuneage release so far, but the best pop-punk release heard around these parts in a long, long time' 9 out of 10 - OX MAGAZINE, GERMANY. And... 'The perfect solution to a bad hangover!' 4KKKK's - KERRANG!.
Wretch Like Me : I Am Become Death CD on Owned And Operated
Wretch Like Me kicked off the New Millennium in grand style as threefifths of its membership either quit, were arrested or were kicked out. Remaining members Abe Brennan (vocals) and Trevor Lanigan (guitar), no strangers to adversity having played together for years in My Name (the Pacific Northwest’s answer to the Victims Family), began trolling for a rhythm section. No sooner had one been unearthed, adversity (putting it mildly) struck again in the form of a brain tumor inside Trevor’s head. Two major surgeries and a year of chemotherapy and radiation treatments later, Trevor strolled from a hospital back into the practice room. Resumption of musical activities commenced, the result of which is the ‘I Am Become Death’ full-length CD, an apt if somber title borrowed from the lips of J. Robert Oppenheimer via an ancient Hindu text that he mouthed after the first successful detonation of the atom bomb. ‘Atom Bomb’ is not an un-apt description of Wretch Like Me’s sound, though, with the new four-piece format, the band is exploring quiet dynamics and slower, heavier tempos they had previously ignored. This resultant batch of tunes is ambitious yet staid: too punk for the rock crowd, too rock for the punk crowd, and the indie kids just shake their heads. This is a band that personifies what ‘independent’ used to mean before the wholesale homogenization of music as we know it today took place in the nineties. Fans of ALL, Strung Out, Lagwagon, Armchair Martian and Good Riddance might just understand.
Wurzels : Never Mind The Bullocks Eres The Wurzels
Somerset's very own Crop Idols present their own unique versions of chart toppers! Yes, following the success with their take on the Oasis hit 'Don't Look Back In Anger', which is included here, the lads unleash nine Scrumpy 'n' Western covers of hits such as Gina G's '(Oo Ar) Just A Little Bit’, Blur's 'Country House', and Shaggy's 'It Wasn't Me', to name but a few. So drink up thy zider once more and get ready to party on down with the Wurzels, they're the bullocks!
Xhibit : Man Vs. Machine CD on Loud/Sony
Xzibit hit pay dirt with Restless, his first release under the guidance of Dr. Dre. Why mess with a good thing? Dre is back as executive producer on Man Vs. Machine, ensuring this record is up to his standard. They certainly are — check the Wendy Carlos-inspired "Symphony In X Major" and the electro-bump groove on "Break Yourself" for proof. "Heart of Man" actually manages to bite the melody from Toto’s saccharine hit, "Africa" and still sound respectable. Too bad that X to the Z ain’t got nothin’ new to say. His prison story on "Release Date" sounds like he’s been looking to C-Murder for lyrical inspiration, and the usual thug tales reign supreme. He even gives the obligatory shout-out to his late Momma, who "taught me the wrong from the right", on "Missin‚ U." I’m sure Momma’s watching proudly from heaven as her baby boy rhymes over songs like "Choke Me, Spank Me (Pull My Hair)."
Yardsale : Sweeta Pea CD on Grin Like A Dog
Produced by Flophouse Jr.’s John Wood, here is the second album by this popular Vancouver alt/downer country outfit. Sharing the same stages and similar fans as other odd-country/roots/big in the UK studs Radiogram and Flophouse, Yardsale proudly name Gram Parsons as their prime inspiration, so with all of these names dropped you can get an idea of the good sounds found here.
Yearlings : Yearlings CD on Sonic Rendezvous
Formed in the fertile pop-climate of Utrecht (The Netherlands), The Yearlings make catchy pop-songs with a twang. Inspired by the American alternative country scene (Uncle Tupelo, Jayhawks, Slobberbone, Whiskeytown/Ryan Adams) this six piece band tries to show that, within the boundaries of crafted song-writing, rock and country cliches are far from worn-out! Features Rene van Barneveld (ex-Urban Dance Squad) on pedal steel.
Astrid Young  : Matinee CD on Inbetweens
First solo record by Astrid young, sister of NEIL YOUNG. Classically trained over many years, at the age of fourteen Astrid picked up her first guitar, citing Ritchie Blackmore, Tony Iommi and David Gilmour as primary influences, and began playing around in Toronto bands 1979-85 when she moved to Los Angeles, singing lead for glam-metal band Sacred Child, who went on to make two records which both charted in ten countries. An unreleased solo album for Warner Brothers in 1993/94 was followed by a period recording and touring with brother Neil, starting with 'Harvest Moon' and 'Unplugged', moving right into a world tour with Booker T and the MG's backing up Neil. A move back to homeland Toronto saw the forming of stoner rock power trio iST, with Toronto guitarist David Kiner and drummer Dan Cornelius, which went on to conquer the Toronto rock scene at the forefront of the heavy rock revival. Recent years have seen Astrid through many tours and recordings with brother Neil and has brought her back to California, and Astrid began playing solo acoustic shows around the Bay area of San Francisco. Some of the songs she plays live are from the iST CD, but many are more personal, and reflect her love of the twelve string acoustic guitar sound and some interesting tuning configurations. The album is appropriately titled "Matinee", after the title track, which speaks of the escape that can only be provided by a great film, and many of the songs have some reference to films.
Young Ideas : To Care For A Baby Bird Cd on Bobby Dazzler/Outside
In a matter of five songs, Young Ideas manage to stretch their pop music wings as far as they possibly can, touching all the right influences along the way. So while these may be young ideas, they’re hardly new. Still, none of that matters, really, once the majestic piano and big, beefy beats kick in on opener "Pet Song." Combined with wispy, Belle and Sebastian-like group vocals, it soars on the strength of its old-school Elton John-ish chorus. Meanwhile, the opening piano bars of "All About You" sound so familiar that when the horns kick in you realize you’re listening to Chicago’s debut album — and loving it. Much the same way Sloan used Chicago-like horns on "Everything You’ve Done Wrong," Young Ideas take an old, friendly sound and give it a fresh new vibe. At only five songs, you hope for this trio to come up with more of their ideas.
Young People : Self Titled .CD on 5 Rue Chrisine
Young people immerse haunting country/folk/showtune-tinged female vocals in a spacious, sometimes Abstract environment of electric guitars, drums, amplified violin, and pump organ. Rod cervera (the For carnation, weezer, polar goldie cats) recorded the album in los angeles, where the band is from. Appeals to fans of sonic youth, low, and catpower
Will Young  : From Now On
Will Young needs no introduction. On ITV's 'Pop Idol' he was voted the nation's favourite, and shot straight into the Guinness Book of Records with the fastest selling debut single of all time. Now he's back with one of the most anticipated and long awaited albums of the year. With input from some of the most renowned songwriters in the world - including Cathy Dennis, Burt Bacharach, and Biff and Jules (Spice Girls, S Club) - 'From Now On' takes in a myriad of jazz and soul influences, sliding confidently between low-slung, smoky rhythms and breezy pop jams. A great voice never goes out of style and Young's trademark vocal prowess is both timeless and strikingly ahead of his time. Includes the number one singles 'Evergreen/Anything Is Possible', 'Light My Fire' and 'The Long And Winding Road'.
You're Pretty : Beautiful Accident .CD on Tolerance
Based in Milwaukee, You're pretty seem to be the proverbial band on the verge of a breakthrough.Their music is a whirling dervish of dark, emotive passion. Imagine Tori Amos being the front woman for Disturbed or the Deftones.
James Yorkston : Moving Up Country .CD on Domino
James Yorkston is the newest signing to the Domino label and one of the finest singer songwriters to emerge from these isles in years. Comparisons range from Shane Macgowan to John Martyn, a mean romantic folk sound, “the best thing out of the kingdom of fife since the Jesus and Mary Chain” (The Scotsman). Live dates have included a UK tour last year with John Martyn, plus prestigious guest dates with Beth Orton, Kathryn Williams, Bert Jansch and Smog to date. Already confirmed are festival appearances at the Big Chill, Glastonbury, Fleadh, Reading, and Summer Sundae (Leicester). Debut single received single of the month in Ministry, Muzik and Jockey Slut too - so plenty of appeal to left field dance fans.
Yoshinori Sunahara: Love Beat CD on Bungalow
YOSHINORI SUNAHARA started his music career heavily influenced by electronic music pioneers the YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA & KRAFTWERK. He joined Japan's biggest selling techno act, DENKI GROOVE, in 1992 & while earning nationwide fame and international recognition with them, Yoshinoro pursued a solo career, debuting in 1995 with 'Crossover' on Bungalow, followed by a series of LPs exploring his fascination with flight 'Tokyo Underground Airport', 'Take Off and Landing', and 'Pan Am - The Sound of 70s' The magnificence of Yoshinori's music is not only its diversity of musical elements but also its grand conception. He's currently working on various collaboration projects & has remixed the likes of Coldcut, Cornelius, El-Malo, Towa Tei, Peter Thomas and Japanese Eighties legend The Plastics. Cornelius mentioned in a recent interview with US "Interview" magazine that "YOSHINORI SUNAHARA is definitely one of the most promising Japanese musicians today".
Frank Zappa : Zappa Picks By Larry Lalonde Of Primus And Jon Fishman Of Phish Cd on Outside
For any serious Zappa junkie, as both Lalonde and Fishman are, the chance to make your ultimate Zappa compilation is both a great delight and a tough task. Zappa's musical scope was so broad that his fans all have their own perspective on a career that was so prolific that shaving it down to one CD seems like a heinous crime. Despite that, both guys rise to the challenge with strong sets that show just how diverse Zappa's portfolio of rock, jazz, funk and classical — mixed with raunchy humour and biting social commentary — was. At the same time, these discs sound like sonic blueprints, in many ways, for the bands that eventually became Phish and Primus. Fishman loves the more funky and groove oriented stuff and he begins his comp with "Excentrifugal Forz", one of the few times that Zappa, who was a master controller and constructor, ever released a jam! LaLonde shows the source of Primus’s sense of humour, as well as ways to work around Les Claypool's never ending bass antics. As for the aformentioned Zappa junkies, there is no doubt that these collections will inspire debate and surprise (both guys included the version of "Dog Breath" that featured Flo & Eddie on vocals)
Zodiac Mindwarp : I Am Rock CD on Cosmosodomistic
The first album of brand new material in 8 years - zodiac mindwarp and the love reaction are back! I am rock is the band's best recording to date, a sonic maelstrom of savage new rock anthems and twisted pop metal guaranteed to outrage parents and shatter glass at twenty paces.regulars zodiac mindwarp (voice) and cobalt stargazer (guitar) are joined by the ex-crazyhead duo robbie vomm (drums), and kev reverb (bass).before the strokes ,the hives and the white stripes - there was zodiac mindwarp '80s apostles of guitar-driven, gutter level rock and roll.hailed by the cult's ian astbury as "the biggest thing this century" when they exploded into existence in 1986, zodiac mindwarp and the love reaction were the most outrageous rock band on the planet, sex- and drug-driven metal mayhem wrapped in leather, fur, and psychedelic swastika chic."zodiac mindwarp is the greatest rock star in the history of western culture" -bill drummond

LATEST ADDITIONS IN BOLD WHITE


 

LAST UPDATED MONDAY 04 November 2002