>> JONNY BENAVIDEZ – My Echo, Shadow & Me LP (Timmion) *Black or Ltd. Pink Vinyl
This debut album from New York’s JONNY BENAVIDEZ makes good use of Timmion’s house backing band COLD DIAMOND & MINK, with hazy, nostalgic production on songs that recall classic doo-wop and early soul in the FLAMINGOS vein. RECOMMENDED!
>> GEESE – 3D Country LP (Partisan) *Black or Ltd. Clear Vinyl
This sophomore record from Brooklyn’s GEESE takes a more laid-back approach from their debut, toning down their angular post-punk hooks with jammy, summertime songs that seem to chase the sound of mid/late-70s ROLLING STONES. On Partisan & RECOMMENDED!
>> TIM HECKER – No Highs 2LP (Kranky)
Tim Hecker returns after a 4 year absence with No Highs for Kranky. Hecker is a master of deep frequencies & tones & on this one he uses acoustic instruments like Colin Stetson’s cyclical sax patterns, steel guitar, french horn & bass clarinet along with his laptop manipulations to create a rich realm. Ambient music is in a weird spot in 2023 & Hecker still comes out on top. RECOMMENDED!
>> JOHANNA SAMUELS – Bystander LP (Jealous Butcher) *Orange Vinyl
Tactile indie-folk from LA’s JOHANNA SAMUELS, who here partners with producer Josh Kaufman (who’s worked with CASSANDRA JENKINS and THE HOLD STEADY, as well as being in BONNY LIGHT HORSEMAN) for a similar sound that is both textured and free-wheeling, with SAMUELS’ simple, evocative songwriting front and center. RECOMMENDED!
>> WYE OAK – Every Day Like The Last: Collected Singles 2019-2023 LP/CD (Merge) *”Peak Vinyl Edition” Ltd. Swirl Vinyl
The latest collection from long-running indie band WYE OAK compiles digital singles from the past four years as well as a trio of new songs, all showcasing a more folk-driven approach to the gauzy, thorny rock the duo has perfected over the last 15 years. Good stuff! RECOMMENDED!
OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES, REISSUES & RESTOCKS
HANNAH ALDRIDGE – Dream of America LP (Icons Create Evil Art)
RALPH ALESSI – It’s Always Now LP (ECM)
AHMED BEN ALI – Subhana LP (Habibi Funk)
AMERICAN AQUARIUM – Things Change LP (New West)
ATIVIN – Austere LP (Joyful Noise) *Color Vinyl
>> BEACH HOUSE – 7 LP (Sub Pop) *Back in stock!
6LACK (aka BLACK) – Since I Have a Lover 2LP (LVRN) *Pink Vinyl – Early 2023 album now available
GARY BURTON – New Quartet LP (ECM) *Reissue – ECM Luminescence Series
>> CABLE TIES – All Her Plans LP (Merge) *Black or “Peak Vinyl Edition” Ltd. Metallic Ice Queen Vinyl
THE CAT & BELLS CLUB – The Cat & Bells Club LP (Blank Forms)
DON CHERRY, DEWEY REDMAN, CHARLIE HADEN & ED BLACKWELL – Old & New Dreams LP (ECM) *Reissue – ECM Luminescence Series
CHROME – 3rd From the Sun LP (Cleopatra) *Reissue – Ltd. Red/Blue Starburst Vinyl
JOE HISAISHI – Castle in the Sky/ Howl’s Moving Castle/ Kiki’s Delivery Service/ My Neighbor Totoro/ Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind/ Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea/ Porco Rosso/ Princess Mononoke/ Spirited Away/ Tale of the Princess Kaguya/ The Wind Rises (Soundtracks) LPs (Studio Ghibli) *Japanese imports each sold separately – Color Vinyl w/ OBI**Selling out fast so call store to check for availability!**
BILLIE HOLIDAY – Songs for Distingue Lovers LP (Verve) *180g, Remastered – Acoustic Sounds Series
JOHN LEE HOOKER – Alone: Live at Hunter College 1976 2LP (BMG) *180g
THE JERKY BOYS – The Jerky Boys LP (Select)
KEHLANI – Cloud 19 12″ (Atlantic)
KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Infest the Rats Nest: Red Rocks 2022 LP (We Are Busy Bodies) *Ltd. Glow-in-the-Dark Green Vinyl
KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Live in Adelaide 2019 3LP (Fuzz Club) *180g – Color Vinyl
KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Live in London 2019 3LP (Fuzz Club) *180g – Color Vinyl
KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Murder of the Universe: Red Rocks 2022 LP (We Are Busy Bodies) *Ltd. White Sparkle Vinyl w/ puzzle
Awesome collab between UK jazz keyboardist GREG FOAT and legendary Italian ambient composer GIGI MASIN. Some third streamish spaciousness that reminds us of the FLOATING POINTS / PHAROAH SANDERS record from a few years ago, along with the rhythmic thrust of the self-titled RESAVOIR record. RECOMMENDED!
>>FRED AGAIN… & BRIAN ENO – Secret Life LP/CD (Text) *Early 2023 album now available
2023 collab (and hopefully the first of many) between red hot producer FRED AGAIN… and his mentor, the icon BRIAN ENO. Secret Life tends to lean more towards Eno’s classic ambient sound than the preferred rave/house sound of Fred again…’s solo LPs, with varied samples & ethereal vox that fans of BURIAL, JAMES BLAKE, and THE XX oughta vibe with heavy. Released on FOUR TET’s Text Records and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
>> DANNY PAUL GRODY – Arc of Day LP (Three Lobed)
Excellent, acoustic guitar-centered pastoral Americana from DANNY PAUL GRODY, evoking the music of Windham Hill artists like WILLIAM ACKERMAN and ALEX DE GRASSI as well as classic ambient in the vein of HAROLD BUDD and ENO. Lovely music! RECOMMENDED.
>> HEAVENLY – Le Jardin de Heavenly LP (Skep Wax) *Reissue w/ 7″ booklet
Essential reissue of HEAVENLY’s sophomore record which presages BELLE & SEBASTIAN’s twee, sentimental lilt while still keeping up a raucous power pop edge. A Sarah Records classic which comes HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
>>JABEE – Am I Good Enough 2LP (Clerestory AV)
You might not have heard JABEE’s name, but the MC is an underground legend. OKC’s not a place with a long history of great rap music, but Jabee’s prolific output means that he has a long reach. Here on this compilation of 4 EPs worth of excellent rhymes & beats, Jabee calls in assistance from Producers like HAVOC (Mobb Deep) & MCs like BLU & BOLDY JAMES… RECOMMENDED.
OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES, REISSUES & RESTOCKS
GRACIE ABRAMS – Good Riddance 2LP (Interscope) *Deluxe Edition – Black or Ltd. Clear Vinyl
THE ALARM – Forwards LP (Twenty First Century) *White Vinyl
OH NO – Good Vibes, Bad Vibes LP/CD (Nature Sounds)
ONSLAUGHT – Power From Hell LP (HR Records) *Reissue – Ltd. Picture Disc
ALAN PARKER & ALAN HAWKSHA – Black Pearl LP (Music De Wolfe)
PELICANMAN – Planet Chernobyl LP (ORG) *New project from MIKE WATT & PETRA HADEN – Ltd. Blue Marbled Vinyl
PET SHOP BOYS – Smash: The Singles 1985-2020 LP/CD (Parlophone) *6LP Box or 3CD set w/ 2 Blu-rays
THE POISON ARROWS – Crime & Soda LP (Solid Brass) *Ltd. Blue Vinyl ✶ ✶ ✶ ✶
PRODIGY (of MOBB DEEP) – Return of the Mac (Get On Down) *RSD 2022 Pressing – Back in stock!
QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE – In Times New Roman… 2LP/CD (Matador) *Black, Ltd. Green, Ltd. Red, Ltd. Silver, or Ltd. Translucent Blue Vinyl (Selling fast – call store for availability)
RAE SREMMURD – Sremm 4 Life LP (Interscope) *Early 2023 album now available on vinyl
RANSOM – Pain & Glory LP (TCF)
RANSOM & VDON – Chaos is My Ladder CD (Serious Soundz)
RZA – Ghost Dog: Way of the Samurai (Soundtrack) LP (36 Chambers) *Back in stock!
SADHUGOLD – Golden Joe Vol. 2 LP (Nature Sounds)
EMELI SANDE & JOHN GRANT – Endless Coloured Ways: Songs of Nick Drake 7″ (Chrysalis)
SAY SHE SAY – Reeling 7″ (Karma Chief) *Green Vinyl
SILVER CAR CRASH – Shattered Shine LP (Crafted Sounds)
ALLEN STONE – Building Balance LP (ATO) *Ltd. Color Vinyl
ALLEN STONE – Radius 2LP (ATO) *Ltd. Coke Bottle Clear Vinyl
JANAKA STUCKY – Ascend Ascend 2LP (Neurot)
SUNSET RUBDOWN – Snake’s Got a Leg LP (Pronounced Kroog)
>> TELEFON TEL AVIV – Dreams Are Not Enough LP (Ghostly Int’l) *Back in stock!
CHRISSY ZEBBY TEMPO & NGOZI FAMILY – My Ancestors LP (Mississippi) *Reissue
38 SPESH – 7 Shots LP (TCF) *Neon Green or Neon Violet Vinyl
THRICE – The Artist in the Ambulance: Revisited LP (Many Hats Dist.) *Clear Vinyl – Ltd. 6000
UNWOUND – Challenge for a Civilized Society LP (Numero Group) *Reissue – Back in stock!
>> ARTHUR VEROCAI – Timeless: Arthur Verocai 2LP (Mochilla) *Back in stock!
>> BELL WITCH – Future’s Shadow Part 1: Clandestine Gate 2LP/CD (Profound Lore) *Ltd. Purple Vinyl
BELL WITCH returns with Future’s Shadow: Part 1 Clandestine Gate the first part of a proposed three album trilogy. The album starts off with a mellow organ passage that sounds like a funeral dirge.Guitars slowly fade in & the piece finally fully arrives at the 9 minute mark. If you thought Mirror Reaper was a slow burn wait until you throw this one on. All of the elements that we know & love about BELL WITCH are here, slow as molasses doom, epic patience & willingness to let the chords breathe & REVERENCE FOR THE DOOM. RECOMMENDED.
An exciting collaborative project between KATE NV and ANGEL DERADOORIAN, channeling the former’s forays into experimental pop and the latter’s penchant for ambient atmospherics. Angular, disarming, playfully abstract, and RECOMMENDED.
>> FEEBLE LITTLE HORSE – Girl With Fish LP/CD/CS (Saddle Creek) *Pink Vinyl or Indie Exclusive Grey Galaxy Vinyl
Following hot off the heels of Saddle Creek’s Hayday vinyl reissue, FEEBLE LITTLE HORSE’s sophomore record keeps up the gauzy, off-kilter approach found in self recording. Girl with Fish is filled with confident, dynamic songwriting that draws from shoegaze and noise pop, all with a playful attitude that pops up in turns of phrase and home studio tricks. For fans of: ALEX G, LIZ PHAIR, HORSEGIRL. RECOMMENDED!
>>JAYDA G – Guy LP (Ninja Tune) *Ltd. Eco-Mix Vinyl – Signed Edition available while supplies last
The latest record from London-based JAYDA G is a rich mixture of house, R&B and disco, with her own voice brought more to the forefront. A tribute to her father and his experiences as a black man in 20th century America, this should appeal to fans of YAYA BEY, PEGGY GOU and AVALON EMERSON. RECOMMENDED.
>> KING KRULE – Space Heavy LP/CD (Matador) *Black or Indie Exclusive Clear Vinyl
This fourth album for Archy Marshall as KING KRULE seems to catch him drifting over his signature hazy, swamped-up sound, breaking up the guitar distortion and general reverb with more, well, space. Marshall utilizes space perfectly here, creating uncluttered, rich atmospheres with synth pads and minimal band arrangements, bringing both his bittersweet melodies and wry lyricism to the forefront. The most mature release of his to date. Excellent stuff! RECOMMENDED!
>> JENNY LEWIS – Joy’All LP/CD/CS (Blue Note) *Black or Indie Exclusive Green Vinyl
JENNY LEWIS returns with her first album since 2019’s great On The Line. Recorded with producer DAVE COBB and a crack team of Nashville session musicians (plus special guest JON BRION), Joy’All is full of quirky, soulful country pop. that’ll hit the same pleasure center in your brain as classic FLEETWOOD MAC, DIANA ROSS, and even – stick with us here – JIMMY BUFFETT. On Blue Note and, as always with anything Jenny touches, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
>>MAG-AMPLITUDE – Wizards of Tomorrow LP (Zaius Tapes)
Zaius Tapes has dug up a really interesting nugget, this time a 1983 LP that was released in a pressing of just 100. Led by the blind guitarist Matt Muncil, MAG-AMPLITUDE’s sound sits somewhere between post-STOOGES proto-punk, outsider early noise like THE GODZ, lo-fi basement jams like WICKED LADY & some guitar playing that remind us of THE WIPERS’ Greg Sage. RECOMMENDED.
>> RUPA – Disco Jazz LP (Numero Group) *Reissue – Ltd. “Disco Rainbow” Color Vinyl
Is this disco? Well, maybe. Is this jazz? Dear god no. Numero graces us with a much needed reissue of this rare pop fusion record, one that evades categorization. The closest genres would be funk or boogie. Either way this record makes you move. K I L L E R grooves with traditional Indian instrumentation, and sultry Bengali vocals. What more do I need to say? C’mon, it’s disco-jazz. It’s DISCO JAZZ. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!
>> SQUID – O Monolith LP/CD (Warp) *Black or Ltd. Blue Vinyl
No sophomore slump for Bristol’s SQUID, who build upon their motorik anglo-kraut-pop debut with more daring approaches to studio production that embrace electro- acoustic fusion in the BECK vein as well as robust prog passages that remind us of contemporaries BLACK COUNTRY, NEW ROAD. This outward expansion of sound is tied together on O Monolith with a stronger focus on melody, providing structure to the rhythmic exercises and production forays found all over. On Warp and VERY RECOMMENDED.
>> TEARS FOR FEARS – The Hurting LP (Mercury) *2023 Reissue – Half-Speed Master
TEARS FOR FEARS’ incredible debut album from 1983 has long been overshadowed by its follow-up Songs from the Big Chair. Back in 2002 a cover of “Mad World” from The Hurting was featured on the Donnie Darko soundtrack & it became a bit of a hit. Slowly people began to realize it was a cover & The Hurting started to come back to life. This album is incredibly mature for a debut, and though some of the songs might seem a bit dramatic & even ’emo’ today, their blend of electronics & traditional rock instrumentation still sounds incredibly fresh in 2023. This album is much darker than Songs From the Big Chair and it kind of sounds like a mix of early CURE, DEPECHE MODE, OMD & ULTRAVOX. Do yourself a favor & check out this album if you don’t know it already – it’s a true classic. 2023 half-speed remaster made at Abbey Road! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES, REISSUES & RESTOCKS
ALCEST – Les Voyages de L’ame LP (Prophecy) *Ltd. Picture Disc
ALL TIME LOW – Nothing Personal LP (Hopeless) *Reissue – Ltd. Color Vinyl
>> ANIMAL COLLECTIVE – Spirit They’re Gone, Spirit They’ve Vanished 3LP (Domino) *Remastered – Now available on Ltd. Blue Vinyl (as well as Black Vinyl & Ltd. Green Vinyl)
ALBERT AYLER – In Greenwich Village LP (Superior Viaduct) *2023 Reissue
COLD CAVE – Cherish The Light Years/ Cremations/ Fate in Seven Lessons/ Full Cold Moon/ Love Comes Close LPs (Heartworm) *2023 Reissues sold separately – Various Ltd. Color Vinyl
ALICE COOPER – School’s Out 3LP (Rhino) *50th Anniversary – Remastered Deluxe Edition
>> EXPLODING HEARTS – Guitar Romantic LP (Third Man) *Now available on Black Vinyl (Ltd. Clear w/ Pink & Yellow Vinyl still available while supplies last)
>> HOLY CIRCLE – Don’t Disturb My Waking Dream LP (Deathbomb Arc)
THE CRANBERRIES – No Need to Argue 2LP (Island) *Deluxe Edition, Remastered w/ bonus trks – Back in stock!
>> BULLY – Lucky For You LP/CD/CS (Sub Pop) *Loser Edition Color Vinyl – Limited number of signed prints available with purchase while supplies last!
After a quick stint in THE MOUNTAIN GOATS (producing and playing on the excellent Bleed Out), Alicia Bognanno comes roaring back with her 4th LP under the BULLY moniker. This time around the production is more polished and the genre more varied than strictly “grunge pop,” but the massive hooks, buzzsaw guitar, and Alicia’s raspy howl (one of the best voices in indie rock today) are still razor-sharp and raw as all hell. It hurts so good and it does Sub Pop proud. Highly RECOMMENDED!
>> KAREN DALTON – In My Own Time LP (Light In The Attic) *50th Anniversary – Ltd. Silver Vinyl
KAREN DALTON’s second album didn’t get the attention that it deserved when it was released in 1971 but over time it has come to be considered as a classic. You’d think her connections to others in the scene like BOB DYLAN, TIM HARDIN, and FRED NEIL would have cleared a path for Dalton’s success but a variety of obstacles including music biz politics & Dalton’s drug/alcohol abuse stalled any momentum she might have had. The album was reissued in 2010 and artists like NICK CAVE & JOANNA NEWSOM cite Dalton as an influence, and that & other excellent reissues helped her legend grow. In 2021 a documentary was released & now this beautiful deluxe 50th anniversary edition is here with remastered audio on silver vinyl with booklet & beautiful foil-stamped art. RECOMMENDED!
>>BOB DYLAN – Shadow Kingdom 2LP/CD (Columbia)
Originally released as a limited paid streaming performance during lockdown in 2021, Shadow Kingdom is now available in album form. The songs have a really loose feel, with acoustic guitars, accordion & zero percussion. The line-up features T BONE BURNETT, BIG THIEF’s Buck Meek, Don Was & Greg Leisz & the set list mostly features 60s songs with sometimes drastic reinterpretations, especially on “Tombstone Blues.” Dylan has been playing relentlessly the last few years & you can hear the almost effortless familiarity the group has with the songs & it makes for a very rewarding listen. RECOMMENDED.
>> FOO FIGHTERS – But Here We Are LP/CD/CS (RCA) *Black or Ltd. White Vinyl
One word that has long defined FOO FIGHTERS as a band is “resiliency.” Dave Grohl’s best songs are about sticking around, finding resolve, and learning to walk again when the will to fly just isn’t there. It’s an M.O. that’s left them perfectly equipped to face the tragic passing of their beloved drummer Taylor Hawkins head on. Sonically this record has a lot in common with 1999’s There is Nothing Left to Lose (their first LP with Taylor on drums) – surging power pop, shoegaze, extended instrumental passages, and lo-fi punk, with nods throughout to JAWBREAKER, SUGAR, HUM, and old FM radio faves of Taylor like QUEEN and RUSH. Essentially it’s a concept album about loss: Each song works through grief in ways that are raw, unflinching and devoid of cliche. It’s a special gift for us fans, the band’s legacy, and Taylor’s memory. RIP Hawk. RECOMMENDED.
>> POLIBIO MAYORGA & VARIOUS – Ecuatoriana: El Universo Paralelo de… LP/CD (Analog Africa) *w/ book
The latest entry in Analog Africa’s exploration into Latin American esoterica lands in Ecuador and on the figure of POLIBIO MAYORGA. Gravitating towards Quito’s radio station as a musician and utilizing space-age synth technology that had grown in popularity over the years prior, MAYORGA channeled Andean melodies and realist stories into a fusion that can be described as “tropical psychedelia”. This album collects his work as a performer, musician and songwriter, showcasing a central part of Ecuadorian popular music. RECOMMENDED!
>> PROTOMARTYR – Formal Growth in the Desert LP/CD (Domino) *Black or Indie Exclusive Blue Vinyl
Over five records and a decade-plus, Detroit’s own PROTOMARTYR has been a model for consistency. Album six is no exception, expanding their sonic palette to include icy gothic synth textures and guitar sheet noise to abstract (but not obscure) the band’s classic rhythmic jitters and earworm lead-lines. All these are tied together by Joe Casey’s apocalyptic sermon vocals which continue to deliver without landing on cliche sloganeering. One of the best bands working today. On Domino and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Adam McIlwee’s WICCA PHASE SPRINGS ETERNAL project has gained notoriety over the past few years for over 20 albums, mixtapes, and Soundcloud drops in the past decade (plus wrestler Darby Allin’s kickass entrance theme in AEW). This S/T record blends dusty house and trap beats with icy post-punk instrumentation and a big dose of pop-punk melodicism. There’s also a great leftfield goth-country duet with Reckless fave ZOLA JESUS. Cool stuff. RECOMMENDED!
>> VARIOUS – Yo! Boombox: Early Independent Hip-Hop 3LP/2CD (Soul Jazz) *Indie Exclusive LP w/ bonus 7″
Following a book by the same name, Soul Jazz releases a comp focusing on the advent of hip-hop and electro, tracing its origins through disco’s denouement and DJ culture as it emerged in the Bronx in the late 70s. Featuring classic cuts from GRANDMASTER FLASH and THE FUNKY FOUR PLUS ONE as well as a smattering of obscure singles from across the country. Essential stuff for any historian of American popular music. RECOMMENDED!
OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES, REISSUES & RESTOCKS
AVENGED SEVENFOLD – Life Is But A Dream 2LP/CD (Warner) *Ltd. Cobalt Blue Vinyl – Exclusive signed CDs available while supplies last! 1 per customer, no phone orders or holds
COUNT BASIE & HIS ORCHESTRA – The Transcription Recordings LP (Hindsight)
BEACH FOSSILS – Bunny LP/CD/CS (Bayonet) *Ltd. Powder Blue Vinyl
>> BJORK – Fossora 2LP (One Little Indian) *2023 Repress
BLACK SABBATH – Live Evil LP/CD (Warner) *Super Deluxe Box Set – 4LP or 4CD w/ books & poster
>> SAM BLASUCCI – Off My Stars LP (Innovative Leisure)
DONALD BYRD – Slow Drag LP (Blue Note) *180g, Remastered – Blue Note Tone Poet Series
CLUB NOUVEAU – The Collection LP (Virgin)
CORROSION OF CONFORMITY – In the Arms of God 2LP (BMG) *Reissue
CORROSION OF CONFORMITY – Live Volume 2LP (BMG) *Ltd. Red Vinyl
ROB CROW/ KRAMER – Split 7″ (Shimmy Disc)
DE LA SOUL – Stakes is High 2LP/CS (Chrysalis) *Reissue
BEN FOLDS – What Matters Most LP/CD (New West) *Ltd. Seaglass Vinyl – Exclusive signed copies available on LP & CD while supplies last! 1 per customer, no phone orders or holds
FUGAZI – Red Medicine LP (Dischord) *Now available on Red Vinyl
NOEL GALLAGHER’S HIGH FLYING BIRDS – Council Skies LP/CD (Sour Mash) *LP w/ bonus 7″ – Single CD or 2CD Deluxe Edition available
THE GO! TEAM – Thunder, Lightning, Strike LP (Memphis Industries) *Reissue
GORILLAZ – Demon Days 2LP (Warner) *2018 Reissue – Back in stock!
BEN HARPER – Wide Open Light LP (Chrysalis)
>>J DILLA – Donuts 2LP (Stones Throw) *”Smile” Cover back in stock!
JACK JOHNSON – In Between Dub LP (Brushfire)
NORAH JONES – Little Broken Hearts LP/CD (Blue Note) *Reissue
KILLING JOKE – XXV Gathering: Let Us Prey 2LP (Cooking Vinyl) *Ltd. Color Vinyl
KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Demos Vol. 3 & 4 2LP (Needlejuice) *”Deep Pond Scum” Edition – Ltd. Color Vinyl
BAR ITALIA – Tracey Denim CD (Matador) vinyl scheduled for later this year
This Matador debut from London’s BAR ITALIA evokes the 90s underground in its shoegaze-y moodiness, snarling guitar fuzz choruses and cut-and-paste sample work, all drenched in atmospheric reverb. Like hearing THE STONE ROSES in the murky shadows of SLOWDIVE. Superb stuff that comes RECOMMENDED.
BLACK COUNTRY, NEW ROAD – Live at Bush Hall LP (Ninja Tune)
Recording over three nights in London in December of 2022, “Live at Bush Hall” presents as a soundtrack to a YouTube concert documentary but really functions as another entry into the (un)official BC,NR catalog. In the wake of Isaac Wood’s voluntary departure, singing has been taken up by committee, giving the experiments an invitingly twee atmosphere. Yet though this band is constantly shifting, BC,NR still retains the intrepid spirit of their previous albums, at once playful and imposing. On Ninja Tune and RECOMMENDED.
THE CHASM – Scars of a Lost Reflective Shadow LP (Dark Descent)
2023 album by THE CHASM, a death metal duo from Mexico that started way back in 1992! One thing we can promise you is that this record has ALL THE RIFFS. Seriously there are so many great ideas & riffs on here, they just never let up. Top-notch classic sounding death metal with really crisp production. Should make many best of 23 lists for sure. RECOMMENDED.
CHRIS CONNELLY – Phenobarb Bambalam LP/CD (Wax Trax!) black, limited silver or 2LP deluxe vinyl
Chris Connelly’s sophomore album from 1992 has been remastered & reissued courtesy of Wax Trax! A powerful collection of songs that straddle death rock, Bowie’s darker side, post-industrial nastiness & angular KILLING JOKE style rockers. The 2LP edition features b-sides & live recordings from the era. YEAH!
EXPLODING HEARTS – Guitar Romantic: Expanded & Remastered LP (Third Man) limited color of VERY limited “exploded heart” color vinyl which is limited to 1 per customer, no phone orders or holds.
The legendary 2003 album by Portland’s THE EXPLODING HEARTS has been expanded & remastered by Third Man for its 20 year anniversary. There are so many great songs on this with nods to 70s power pop, 80s punk ala BUZZCOCKS, UNDERTONES & THE CLASH while simultaneously sounding like nothing else in 2003. RECOMMENDED.
THE FUCKING CHAMPS – III (reissue) LP (Drag City)
Originally released in 1997 under the name C4AM95 aka CHAMPS. They changed their name to FUCKING CHAMPS in 2000 for their Drag City debut so it’s no surprise that this reissue is now available via Drag City now under the FUCKING CHAMPS name. This record blew a lot of people’s minds back then with its combination of DON CAB esque math rock mixed with power metal “guitarmamonies” & playful arrangements. We’re very happy to be able to carry this one again & we hope D.C. plans reissues of their other great albums. RECOMMENDED.
HANNAH JADAGU – Aperture LP/CD/TAPE (Sub Pop) First pressing Loser Edition color vinyl
“Aperture” is the debut album by the young songwriter Hannah Jadagu currently based in NYC. Jadagu’s songs have a sort of effortless quality to them with bedroom pop style songs with bright & crisp recordings. Think Hazel English, Chicago’s LALA LALA, early Captured Tracks bands etc…Great stuff.
GIA MARGARET – Romantic Piano LP/TAPE (Jagjaguwar)
After releasing her debut album Chicago’s Gia Margaret lost her voice due to illness. While she recovered she turned to making instrumental music & released the stunning ambient album “Mia Gargaret.” Now she’s back with her 2nd (mostly) instrumental album & her first for Jagjaguwar. This is a lovely mix of minimalist chamber style piano pieces overlayed with field recordings & wonderful synth parts. There’s also a brief but fantastic guitar piece. The one vocal song “City Song” reminds us of BON IVER or MICROPHONES & It’s quite cinematic & beautiful. We’re all in. RECOMMENDED.
MIDWIFE & VYVA MELINKOLYA – Orbweaving LP/TAPE (The Flenser)
Reckless fave Madeline Johnston (MIDWIFE) & Angel Diaz (Vyva Melinkolya) have teamed up for this fantastic 2023 album. If you’re familiar with MIDWIFE then you’ll have a good idea what this sounds like, minimal slowcore/shoegaze with bits of half-speed drone & sludge. Think JESU, NADJA, JESUS & MARY CHAIN 45s on 33 etc…RECOMMENDED.
WATER FROM YOUR EYES – Everyone’s Crushed LP/CD (Matador)
In spite of the HEAVEN 17 invocation on the cover, the electro-pop on “Everyone’s Crushed” is anything but docile. Jagged guitar and electronic drum lines crash and clang, fitting together like shards of glass being reconstructed, all tied together by Rachel Brown’s dry disassociated vocal delivery. Fans of DRY CLEANING and PALM will find lots to love here. On Matador and VERY RECOMMENDED!
OTHER IMPORTANT RELEASES
AJJ – Disposable Everything LP/CD (Hopeless) indie only color or black
RAY BARRETTO – Que Viva La Musica LP (Craft)
BEACH HOUSE – Become LP/CD/TAPE (Sub Pop) RSD EP available on black vinyl
BIG STAR – #1 Record LP (Ardent) metallic gold/purple vinyl
THE BLACKWOOD APOLOGY – House of Leather LP (Sundazed) red vinyl, remastered
The last 2 weeks have been sort of lite on new releases so we combined them into one list. Along with these and a bunch of restocks we also received some RSD re-ups including the Nuggets box, the Grateful Dead box & some other stuff should be trickling in like more of the Miles Davis.
RECKLESS RECORDS 5/5/23 & 5/12/23
ASCENDED DEAD – Evenfall of the Apocalypse LP (20 Buck Spin)
ATMOSPHERE – So Many Other Realities Exist LP (Rhymesayer) LP/CD
BARONESS – Blue LP (Relapse) new color
BARONESS – Red LP (Relapse) new color
BARONESS – Yellow & Green LP (Relapse) new color
BETTER OBLIVION COMMUNITY CENTER – Better Oblivion Community Center LP (Dead Oceans) finally back in stock
CATTLE DECAPITATION – Terrasite LP (Metal Blade) color vinyl
CHAT PILE – Tenkiller (soundtrack) LP (Flenser) color vinyl
J. COLE – 2014 Forest Hills Drive LP (Roc Nation) finally back in print
RODNEY CROWELL – Chicago Sessions LP/CD (New West) Chicago exclusive signed LP!
DAFT PUNK – Random Access Memories: 10th Anniversary Edition 3LP/2CD (Sony)
DE LA SOUL – Buhloone Mindstate LP (Tommy Boy)
DRAIN – Living Proof LP/CD (Epitaph) indie only color or black
ALISON GOLDFRAPP – The Love Invention LP/CD (BMG)
HARRY PUSSY – You’ll Never Play in this Town Again LP (Palilalia)
ISLAND OF LOVE – Island of Love LP/CD (Third Man) ltd. indie only color vinyl at Wicker Park
JAWBREAKER – Dear You LP (Geffen) available again!
DURAND JONES – Wait Til I Get Over LP/CD (Dead Oceans) limited color or black
KID CONGO POWERS & THE NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE – Live in St. Kilda LP (In the Red)
DAVE LOMBARDO – Rites of Percussion LP/CD (Ipecac)
OLIVIA JEAN – Raving Ghost LP/CD (Third Man) limited color or black vinyl
LAMP OF MURMUUR – Burning Spears of Crimson Agony LP (Black Gangrene)
LAMP OF MURMUUR – Submission & Slavery LP (Black Gangrene)
MASTODON – Call of the Mastodon LP (Relapse) new color
MASTODON – Leviathan LP (Relapse) new color
LEMON TWIGS – Everything in Harmony LP (Captured Tracks) color or black vinyl
KACEY MUSGRAVES – Golden Hour: Cloud Nine Edition LP (MCA) color vinyl
THE 1975 – Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships LP (Interscope) first time we’ve had this in a few years
BILL ORCUTT – Jump on It LP (Palilalia)
JOJI – Smithereens LP (Warner)
SMASHING PUMPKINS – Atum 4LP/3CD (Thirty Tigers)
SONIC YOUTH – Daydream Nation LP (Goofin) back in stock
SQURL – Silver Haze LP (Sacred Bones)
VARIOUS ARTISTS – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 LP/CD (Hollywood)
YOUNG THE GIANT – American Bollywood LP/CD (Jungle Youth) limited color or black vinyl
TOM ZE – Massive Hits: The Best of Tom Ze LP (Luaka Bop)
here’s the list of what we’ll have for RSD. we have a good amount of Taylor, not many copies of 1975 on any format (these were very limited) and some things didn’t make it in time like the Sam Smith 7″, MF Doom 7″ etc… Not every location has everything so we did our best to try and mention that when applicable. If you don’t see something on here we don’t have it. Some things can still be ordered so if you don’t see something on here you were hoping to get, let us know. We hope that you can find what you’re looking for. Good luck
LPS
The 1975 – Live With The BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
The pre-order for the NF signing is now closed. You can still come to the store & buy a CD or LP before the event starts. Once the event has started we can’t guarantee that you’ll be able to get something signed.
FACS – Still Life in Decay LP/CD (Trouble In Mind) limited color or black vinyl
The always reliable FACS are back with a new one in 2023. After a few albums with a lot of studio trickery & manipulation, this one is mostly pretty straight forward recording-wise. The result is probably the most accurate documentation of what a force they are as a live band. Driving & repetitive THIS HEAT-esque rhythms with sparse & brittle guitar from Brian. His voice is also way on top here which also gives this record a different feel. Another great onefrom these local heroes. RECOMMENDED.
WEDNESDAY – Rat Saw God LP/CD/TAPE (Dead Oceans) limited color or black w/ limited bonus CD while supplies last
The Asheville band WEDNESDAY has moved over to DEAD OCEANS for their 2023 album. The recording on this one is pretty hi-fi & it makes their 90s alt rock/grunge inspired tunes sound even heavier. Fans of PIXIES, NIRVANA, WEEZER etc… will eat this up.
YAEJI – With a Hammer LP/CD (XL) limited pink or black vinyl
Following a run of singles and mixtapes, this debut LP from YAEJI throws in the entire kitchen sink, with flickering collages of vocal samples, impressionistic synths, frenetic beats and hooks that range from sugar sweet pop to jagged, dissonant experimentation. The result lands somewhere in an area between hip-house, 90s-esque IDM and hyperpop, but to limit this record to those conventions might be a disservice. Absolutely worth a listen for fans of leftfield experimental pop.
OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES & RESTOCKS
AFFLECKS PALACE – The Only Light in This Tunnel is the Oncoming Train LP (SOSI)
VIJAYA ANAND – Dance Raja Dance: The South Indian Film Music of Vijaya Anand LP (Luaka Bop) first time on vinyl!
BLONDSHELL – Blondshell LP/CD (Partisan) limited clear or black vinyl
another busy few weeks with busy events & tons of product coming so we had to combine these two releases lists
RECKLESS RECORDS 3/24/23 & 3/31/23 NEW RELEASES
LUCINDA CHUA – Yian LP/CD (4AD)
Singer and cellist LUCINDA CHUA follows up her 2021 album “Antidotes” with another spacious, introspective LP filled with lush tones, orchestral dynamics and soft, impressionistic vocals. CHUA formerly worked with the moniker FELIX on Kranky records, and this should appeal to fans of her Kranky labelmates GROUPER and LOW. On 4AD and RECOMMENDED!
ALICE COLTRANE – Journey in Satchidananda LP (Impulse) Verve Acoustic Sound Series
An essential 60s/70s jazz album & one of the most important spiritual jazz records ever, The 4th solo album by Alice Coltrane finally available again as part of the fantastic Verve Acoustic Sound remaster series. Alice had recently become a follower of Swami Satchidananda & her music became a vessel for her pursuit of knowledge & spirituality. With players such as Pharoah Sanders, Charlie Haden & Rashied Ali (along with others), Coltrane created some truly futuristic music that still sounds groundbreaking today. There’s not many albums we can recommendmore highly than this honestly.
DARKSPACE – LP reissues (Season of Mist)
Season of Mist has done us all a favor by reissuing the classic albums by the cosmic & atmospheric black metal duo known as DARK SPACE. Mixing elements of drone, dark ambient & black metal, DARK SPACE created some of the most intense & artful black metal albums ever. RECOMMENDED.
DARK SPACE – I LP (Season of Mist)
DARK SPACE – II LP (Season of Mist)
DARK SPACE – III LP (Season of Mist)
ENSLAVED – Heimdal LP (Nuclear Blast) now on vinyl!
Those of you that have been stalking our metal sections for the past decade + will know that we love ENSLAVED at Reckless. There was a while there where they seemed almost unstoppable. They’ve slowed down a little bit after losing their long term drummer, covid restrictions etc… but they’re back in ’23 with their 16th (!!) album. The previous album “Utgard” was their most straight-ahead metal album in years & this one is the opposite, probably their most progressive record in years. Complex arrangements, their classic blend of harsh & clean vocals & some cool synth textures & experimentation while making sure not to forget some truly stoked-worthy riffage & epic soloing. RECOMMENDED!
PINK FLOYD – Dark Side of the Moon: Live at Wembley Empire Pool, London, 1974 LP/CD (Pink Floyd)
In celebration of 50 years for “Dark Side of the Moon” comes the first stand-alone vinyl issue of this 1974 live recording from Wembley Empire Pool in London. The recording is top notch & it’s amazing to hear the band absolutely kill these songs in that era. The LP comes with two posters. RECOMMENDED.
OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES AND RESTOCKS
ALTIN GUN – Ask LP/CD (ATO)
FIONA APPLE – Fetch the Bolt Cutters LP (Epic) finally back in stock
OMAR APOLLO – Ivory LP (Warner)
BEACH HOUSE – Bloom LP (Sub Pop) back in stock
BOYGENIUS- The Record LP/CD (Interscope) limited color or black vinyl
BURIAL – Untrue LP (Hyperdub) back in stock
CAVE IN – Until Your Heart Stops LP (Relapse) color vinyl reissue
CELTIC FROST – Into the Pandemonium 2LP (BMG) reissue on color vinyl w/ poster
CELTIC FROST – Morbid Tales 2LP (BMG) reissue on color vinyl w/ poster
CELTIC FROST –To Mega Therion 2LP (BMG) reissue on color vinyl w/ poster
CHRIS & COSEY – Elemental 7 LP (CTI)
CHRIS & COSEY – Musik Fantastique! LP (CTI)
THE CITY & COLOUR – The Love Still Held Me Near LP/CD (Dine Alone) LP/CD limited color or black vinyl
DENZEL CURRY – Unlocked LP (Loma Vista) color vinyl
LUKE COMBS – Gettin’ Old LP (Columbia)
DAFT PUNK – Discovery LP (Daft Life) back in stock
DAFT PUNK – Human After All LP (Daft Life) back in stock
DEAD MOON – Echoes of the Past: Anthology 4LP box set (Arena Rock)
DEERHOOF – Miracle-Level LP/CD (Joyful Noise)
LANA DEL REY – Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd LP/CD (Interscope) color LP w/ alternate art is already sold out, hoping to have more soon
DEPECHE MODE – Memento Mori LP/CD (Columbia)
DUSTER – Moods, Modes 7” boxset (Numero)
FALL OUT BOY – So Much (For) Stardust LP/CD/TAPE (Fueled by Ramen) limited color or black vinyl
GORILLAZ – Demon Days (Picture Disc) LP (Warner) back in stock
GRANDADDY – Sophtware Slump LP (Dangerbird) color vinyl reissue
HOLD STEADY – Price of Progress LP/CD (Positive Jams) limited color or black vinyl
IGGY & THE STOOGES – Raw Power: 50th Anniversary 2LP (Columbia) RSD Essential gold vinyl
IRON & WINE – Lori 12” (Black Cricket) featuring Chicago’s FINOM!
KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Laminated Denim LP (KGLW)
KINKS – The Journey: Part One LP/CD (BMG)
LOW – Double Negative LP (Sub Pop) back in stock
LOW – Secret Name LP (Kranky) back in stock
BOB MARLEY & THE WAILERS – Limited edition, Jamaican vinyl pressings (Tuff Gong)
MELANIE MARTINEZ – Portals LP/CD (Atlantic) 5 different CD versions
MAC MILLER – Blue Slide Park: 10th Anniversary (Rostrum) color vinyl
MAC MILLER – Divine Feminine (Warner) back in stock
MICROPHONES – Glow PT. 2 LP (PW Elverum & Sun)
MICROPHONES – Microphones in 2020 PT. 2 LP (PW Elverum & Sun
NEW PORNOGRAPHERS – Continue as a Guest LP/CD (Merge) limited color or black vinyl
PURLING HISS – Drag on Girard LP/CD (Drag City)
CAROLINE ROSE – The Art of Forgetting LP (New West) LP/CD
DICK STUSSO – S.P. LP (Hardly Art)
TOMAHAWK – Oddfellows LP (Ipecac) limited color or black vinyl
TOMAHAWK – Tomahawk LP (Ipecac) limited color or black vinyl
UNWOUND – Challenge for a Civilized Society TAPE (Numero)
UNWOUND – Future of What TAPE (Numero)
UNWOUND – Leaves Turn Inside You TAPE (Numero)
UNWOUND – Repetition TAPE (Numero)
UNWOUND – Unwound TAPE (Numero)
SHARON VAN ETTEN – Tramp: 10th Anniversary LP (Jagjaguwar)
WEYES BLOOD – Titanic Rising LP (Sub Pop) back in stock
