Category: new releases

5/7/21 New Releases

NATALIE BERGMAN – Mercy LP/CD (Third Man) limited edition color vinyl

“Mercy” is the debut solo album by Natalie Bergman, one half of duo WILD BELLE born in Chicago with her brother Elliot. The origin of this record is based in tragedy when Bergman’s life changed the day she learned that her father & stepmother had been killed in a car crash. Bergman retreated to a monastery in New Mexico to grieve in near isolation. This is a record about faith inspired by gospel music & the songs are a mix of traditional sounding gospel, 60s girl groups & soul & some subtle reggae nods.

DJ BLACK LOW – Uwami LP/CD (Awesome Tapes From Africa)

“Uwami” is the 2nd album on Awesome Tapes From Africa that we’ve carried in the South African style of dance music called Amapiano. Similar to the first release by TENO AFRIKA, this one by DJ BLACK LOW highlights the minimalist style of production with minimalist house/footwork style beats & repetitive samples. We’re really loving these sounds & hope there’s more to come. 

DRAMARAMA – Cinema Verite LP (Pasadena)

FINALLY!! There hasn’t been a proper vinyl reissue of the debut album by the New Jersey band DRAMARAMA since 1990. The AllMusic description really nails it by referring to this as “probably the greatest rock release from 1985 that almost no one has ever heard.”  They had some success with the HUSKER DU meets AGENT ORANGE song “Anything, Anything” & they touch on a lot of styles including ‘STONES-y scuzz, power pop ala PLIMSOULS, hints at what AFGHAN WHIGS would become, a similar Americanized take on the British Invasion that BIG STAR did so well etc…AN UNDERRATED CLASSIC!

KHRUANGBIN – Dearest Alfred (My Joy)/ Father Bird, Mother Bird remix 12” (Dead Oceans)

Limited edition, already out of print 12” of remixes by KNXWLEDGE & KADHJA BONET. 

***1 PER CUSTOMER, NO HOLDS, IN STORE SALES ONLY***

MASASHI KITAMURA + PHOTOGENIX – Prologue for Post-Modern Music LP (Ship to Shore)

First ever reissue of this classic Japanese ambient experimental album from 1984 courtesy of Ship to Shore. With nods to both Eno’s ambient & pop sides, hints of YELLOW MAGIC ORCHESTRA & 20th Century minimalism, this record covers quite a bit of styles in 39 minutes. Those of you that have been enjoying the Japanese ambient & city pop reissues on this label & Light in the Attic will want to check this out. RECOMMENDED.

ANGEL OLSEN – Song of the Lark & Other Far Memories 4LP box set (Jagjaguwar)

Limited edition 4LP box set that collects the “All Mirrors” & “Whole New Mess” albums along with some other songs, remixes & outtakes from those sessions along with a 40 page book with a ton of personal ephemera, photos & more. RECOMMENDED OR COURSE.

PAYSAGE d’HIVER – Geister LP/CD (Kunsthall)

Tobias “Wintherr” Mockl returns with his solo black metal project PAYSAGE D’HIVER for “Geister.” Following the theme of the other PAYSAGE…releases, “Geister” is another chapter in the ongoing story of “The Wanderer.” On this one, The Wanderer encounters beings from another dimension while in a dream. Those beings are from our world but The Wanderer thinks they are ghosts. The recording is a little more hi-fi on this one with more mid-tempo beats but it’s no less crushing & ice cold. RECOMMENDED.

REAL ESTATE – Half a Human EP 12” (Domino)

This new six-track EP from REAL ESTATE builds off of 2020’s “The Main Thing”, with bright guitar jangles intersecting over gentle harmonies that land somewhere between melancholy and bliss. Not a dud to be found on this EP! On Domino.

ANDY STOTT – Never the Right Time LP (Modern Love)

The Manchester musician Andy Stott returns with his 8th solo album “Never the Right Time.” The record starts with a wash of ambient synths & then sort of spills into a syrupy, beat-less vocal track that reminds us of CHROMATICS stint at David Lynch’s roadhouse with singing by Alison Skidmore. As a whole this record has a down tempo, almost somber vibe at times varying between reverb drenched post-techno instrumentals & minimal pop songs featuring Skidmore’s heavily affected voice. A new Andy Stott record is always cause for celebration at Reckless & this one is no different. RECOMMENDED.

MELVIN UKACHI – Evolution (Bring Back the Ofege Beat) LP (Tidal Waves)

Melvin Ukachi is best known as the singer for the 70s Nigerian group OFEGE. This solo album from 1981 is brilliant with hints of the OFEGE days, memorable tunes with great vocals & some fantastic afrobeat grooves. RECOMMENDED.

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

ALEX CHILTON & HI RHYTHM SECTION – Live on Beale Street LP/CD (Omnivore)

DRAMARAMA – Color TV LP (Pasadena)

DEXTER GORDON – One Flight Up LP (180grm remaster) Blue Note Tone Poet Series

ANDREW HILL – Passing Ships 2LP (180grm remaster) Blue Note Tone Poet Series

ICEAGE – Seek Shelter LP/CD (Mexican Summer) limited color or black vinyl

KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Demos Vols. 1 & 2 2LP (Drastic Plastic)

MATT JENCIK – Weird Times tape (Gilead Media)

NEW ORDER – Education Entertainment Recreation: Live at Alexandra Palace 2CD/2CD & BLURAY or 3LP box set (Warner)

HARRY NILSSON – Nilsson Schmilsson: Original Master Recording 2LP (Mobile Fidelity)

PHISH – White Tape LP (Jemp) reissue on color vinyl

RAG’N’BONE MAN – Life by Misadventure LP (Columbia)

MAGGIE ROGERS – Notes from the Archive: Recordings 2011-2016 LP (Debay Sounds)

SADE – This Far 6LP box set (Epic) back in stock!

CARTER TANTON – Carter Tanton LP (Western Vinyl)

KALI UCHIS – Sin Miedo (Del Amor Y Otros Demonios) LP (Interscope)

WEEZER – Van Weezer LP/CD (Atlantic) limited color or black vinyl

TONY JOE WHITE – Smoke From the Chimney LP (Easy Eye Sound)

AMY WINEHOUSE – At the BBC 3LP (Island)

FRANK ZAPPA – ZAPPA 2LP (Zappa)

FRANK ZAPPA – ZAPPA 5LP box set (Zappa)

4/30/21 New Releases

BURIAL/FOUR TET/THOM YORKE – Her Revolution/His Rope 12” (Hyperdub) back in stock

CAN – Delay 1968 LP (Mute) pink vinyl

CAN – Future Days LP (Mute) gold vinyl

CRUMB – Ice Melt LP (Crumb) indie color or black vinyl

MARIANNE FAITHFUL w/ WARREN ELLIS – She Walks in Beauty LP/CD (BMG)

GIRL IN RED – If I Could Make it Go Quiet LP/CD (AWAL)

GOJIRA – Fortitude LP (Roadrunner) limited color or black vinyl

GORILLAZ – Plastic Beach LP (Parlophone) back in stock

GUIDED BY VOICES – Earth Man Blues LP/CD (GBV)

PJ HARVEY – Uh Huh Her LP/CD (Island)

PJ HARVEY – Uh Huh Her Demos LP/CD (Island)

LONEY DEAR – Lantern & A Bell LP (Real World)

MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA – Million Masks of God 2LP/LP indie or regular vinyl

IGGY POP & DAVID BOWIE – Iggy & Ziggy Cleveland ‘77 LP picture disc (Cleopatra)

ROYAL BLOOD – Typhoons LP (Warner) indie color or black vinyl

CARL STONE – Stolen Car LP (Unseen Worlds)

SWAMP DOG – Rat On! LP (Alive)

TEENAGE FANCLUB – Endless Arcade LP (Merge) peak vinyl edition

CHESTER THOMPSON – Powerhouse LP (Real Gone)

YA TSEEN – Indian Yard LP/CD (Sub Pop) 

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Sound Storing Machines: First 78 Records From Japan 1903-1911 (Sublime Frequencies)

VOIVOD – Outer Limits LP (Real Gone) color vinyl ltd. ed.

BOBBY WOMACK – Poet II LP (Abcko)

4/23/21 New Releases

DINOSAUR JR – Sweep It Into Space LP/CD (Jagjaguwar) limited purple or black vinyl

It’s baffling that the original line-up of DINOSAUR JR. has been reformed for SIXTEEN years which is longer than probably 80% of bands last in total but it just proves that J, Lou & Murph knew the magic was impossible to fight. With some co-production by Dinosaur Jr. aficionado Kurt Vile, J & the boys have made another efficient collection of great songs that fits nicely in their already legendary discography. RECOMMENDED OF COURSE.

MONOBODY – Comma LP (Sooper)

MONOBODY is an instrumental rock/jazz/fusion band from Chicago featuring the talented Nnamdi on drums. Insane playing & progressive arrangements from this young band that will appeal to fans of fusion greats such as Tony Williams & LIFETIME, MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA, TORTOISE, JOAN OF ARC etc…RECOMMENDED!

SPIRITUALIZED – Lazer Guided Melodies LP (Fat Possum) limited edition white vinyl

The early 90s space rock classic from Jason Pierce & SPIRITUALIZED is available once again this time on Fat Possum with updated cover art. Pierce’s former band SPACEMEN 3 was slowly moving in a more “pop” direction & he solidified that move on the SPIRITUALIZED debut which was a mix of Brit Pop, psychedelic revival & space rock. These albums have aged so damn well & it’s great to be able to stock them in the racks once again. RECOMMENDED!

TANGLED SHOELACES – Turn My Dial: M Squared Recordings & More 1981- 84 LP 

Fantastic collection of recordings by this early 80s Australian band that’s youngest member was 10 & their oldest 14 when they started. The songs are surprisingly well-formed with great lyrics, a nice back & forth of boy/girl vocals, some synths, horns & acoustic overdubs. Fans of things like TV PERSONALITIES, the Slumberland & Sarah labels, 80’s Flying Nun artists etc… MUST hear this. RECOMMENDED.

ALAN VEGA – Mutator LP/CD (Sacred Bones) limited color or black vinyl

Sacred Bones has been granted access to the unreleased recordings of NYC art rock legend Alan Vega via his longtime collaborator Liz Lamere & this is the first release in their “Alan Vega Vault” series. Recorded at his studio in New York in the mid 90s, “Mutator” is a collection of dark, industrial inspired songs that fit nicely into Vega’s previously released work. This is a must have for fans for sure. RECOMMENDED.

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Alan Lomax’s American Patchwork: Field Recordings 1978- 1983 2LP (Mississippi) 

Mississippi Records has put together a fantastic collection of Alan Lomax’s final American field recording sessions from 1978-1983. Lomax & his crew recorded over 350 hours of footage which was edited into the “American Patchwork” series which was shown on public television in 1991. This compilation features highlights of American folk, blues, string bands, zydeco & more from the series recorded in the American south & southwest. RECOMMENDED!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

ANIMAL COLLECTIVE – Crestone (Original Soundtrack) LP (Domino)

STEVE ARRINGTON – Down to the Lowest Terms: The Soul Sessions 2LP (Stones Throw)

BLACK ANGELS – Live at Levitation LP (Reverb Appreciation Society) indie only color vinyl

JOHN LENNON & PLASTIC ONO BAND – John Lennon & Plastic Ono Band: Ultimate Mixes 2LP (Capitol)

ERIC CHURCH – Soul LP/CD (EMI)

CAL FISH – Plastic Flag LP (Fire Talk)

GANG OF FOUR – Entertainment! LP (Matador) remastered

GANG OF FOUR – Solid Gold LP (Matador) remastered

YUSEF LATEEF – Live at Ronnie Scott’s LP (Gear Box)

PANTERA – Cowboys From Hell LP (Atco) color vinyl reissue

PANTERA – Far Beyond Driven LP (Atco) color vinyl reissue

PANTERA – Great Southern Trendkill LP (Atco) color vinyl reissue

PANTERA – Reinventing the Steel LP (Atco) color vinyl reissue

PANTERA – Vulgar Display of Power LP (Atco) color vinyl reissue

REMEMBER SPORTS – Like a Stone LP/CD (Father/Daughter)

SADE – This Far box set 6LP (Epic)

ELLIOTT SMITH – Introduction to… LP (Kill Rock Stars)

ELLIOTT SMITH – Roman Candle LP (Kill Rock Stars)

SONIC BOOM – Almost Nothing is Nearly Enough 12” (Carpark) neon vinyl

UNWOUND – Challenge for a Civilized Society LP (Numero) splatter color vinyl

THE WHO – Sell Out: Deluxe Edition 2LP/2CD (Polydor)

4/16/21 New Releases

NATURAL INFORMATION SOCIETY w/ Evan Parker – Descension (Out of Our Constrictions) LP (Eremite)

Long-form live improvisation from Joshua Abrams’ ensemble Natural Information Society. Incorporating the free spirit of Evan Parker’s saxophone for the second time around. The compositions were created with Parker in mind and the group make a vast range of musical references. Minimal, driving, explosive even at times. Another great work from Chicago’s underground jazz explorers. RECOMMENDED!

SAULT – 5 LP (Forever Living Originals) back in stock!

SAULT – 7 LP (Forever Living Originals) back in stock!

FINALLY! We’ve been trying to stock these records for MONTHS & they’re finally here! SAULT is a mysterious group from the UK though through some digging there are theories that artists like producer Inflo, singer Cleo Sol & possibly even Chicago’s Kid Sister are Involved. This music is a mix of funk, minimalist post-punk similar to ESG, a similar post-modernism to another Reckless favorite GOAT, CAN drummer Jaki Liebezeit’s motorik beats & more. This checks so many boxes for us & we’re very stoked to have these!RECOMMENDED.

SHARKULA x MUKQS – Take Caution On the Beach CD/TAPE (Hausu Mountain)

Second collab between Hausu Mountain co-founder MUKQS and Chicago underground legend SHARKULA, again mixing SHARK’s tactile flow with glitchy, abstract production from MUQKS that has a pleasant drop of soul. Extreme heat from this pair that comes RECOMMENDED!

TREES – The Garden of Jane Delawney LP (Earth) limited green or limited white vinyl

TREES – On the Shore LP (Earth) limited green or oxblood vinyl

Much needed reissues of the albums by the legendary British folk rock band TREES. In our opinion these records are just as important to the late 60s/early 70s British folk sound as FAIRPORT CONVENTION or INCREDIBLE STRING BAND. The band was pretty active during their brief existence sharing stages with bands like FAIRPORT, FLEETWOOD MAC, GENESIS, YES & many more but commercial success mostly eluded them.Similar to FAIRPORT, the group blended traditional British folk styles with modern rock & the popular psychedelic sound of the time with some great jamming & guitar solos. These albums sound amazing today & any fan of 60s British folk & psych, “freak folk” & “acid folk” NEED these records. HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION.

RYLEY WALKER – Course in Fable CD (Husky Pants) vinyl coming in a few weeks

It’s been a whirlwind few years for Chicago ex-pat & our friend Ryley Walker. After years of battling addiction, he managed to get clean while being almost nakedly open about his experience in interviews. Free of his label, Ryler decided to spend his down time while he couldn’t tour by starting a new label to host his music & music made by his friends. Ryley seems to be almost reborn & “Course In Fable” might be his strongest & most unique album yet. He’s pretty open about his love of British prog on his hilarious Twitter posts & there’s a lot of influence from prog legends GENESIS, the Canterbury Scene & 90s indie rockers like Jim O’Rourke. The album was recorded by another former Chicagoan, John McEntire of TORTOISE/SEA & CAKE et al. Congrats to Ryley & his bright future! RECOMMENDED.

V/A – Two Synths, a Guitar (&) a Drum Machine: Post Punk Dance #1 2LP/CD (Soul Jazz)

Inspired by the artistic fusion of punk, funk & disco found in Manhattan’s late 70s/early 80s underground – as well as a bit of Sheffield/Manchester post punk for good measure – the bands featured on this latest Soul Jazz comp take the energies & sounds of the past and channel it in heady new directions. Showcasing new music from Germany (TORESCH), Japan (SUSUMU MAKAI), Canada (NEW FRIES), the U.K. (TOM OF ENGLAND) and of course from the seedy, smelly, vibrant DIY scenes spread across cities here in the grand ol’ U.S. of A. This baby comes HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

THE ARMED – Ultrapop LP (Sargent House) clear or tan vinyl

CANNIBAL CORPSE – Violence Unimagined LP/CD (Metal Blade) 2 different limited

  LP colors

ERIC CHURCH – Heart LP/CD (EMI) with free Hatch Print while supplies last!

DEFTONES – White Pony 4LP 20th Anniversary box set (Reprise)

NIGEL GODRICH – Scott Pilgrim VS. The World (Original Score) LP (Abcko)

HUDSON MOHAWKE – Hudson’s Heeters LP (Warp) remastered

HYPNOSONICS – Drums Were Beating: Fort Apache Studios 1996 LP (Modern Harmonic)

HYPNOSONICS – Someone Stole My Shoes: Beyond the Q Division Sessions LP (Modern Harmonic)

TOM PETTY – Finding Wildflowers 2LP (Warner) limited gold vinyl. Black is 5/7

SUN RA – Astro Black LP (Modern Harmonic)

TORO Y MOI – Underneath the Pine LP (Carpark) 10th anniversary splatter vinyl

VITAMIN – Recordings 1981 LP (Don Giovanni) white vinyl

V/A – Scott Pilgrim VS. The World (Soundtrack/Score) 4LP picture disc box set (Abcko)

4/9/21 New Releases

THE EMBARRASSMENT – THE Embarrassment EP LP (Almost Ready)

Yes! Almost Ready Records has reissued the debut EP by the Kansas post-punk legends THE EMBARRASSMENT & we’re pretty excited about it. Top-notch early 80s jangly guitar rock that sits in the middle of bands like THE FEELIES/GO-BETWEENS & the edgier sound of MISSION OF BURMA/GANG OF FOUR. RECOMMENDED!

EXEK – Biased Advice LP/CD (Castle Face)

Reissue of the 2016 album by this great Melbourne band. Post-punk with a heavy dub influence, great bass playing & melodic but angular songs. Fans of early Rough Trade bands, THE FALL, SLITS, ESG, PIL & more recently Anika & BEAK will love this. RECOMMENDED.

THE FALL – Live at St. Helens Technical College, 1981 LP (Castle Face)

Absolutely FANTASTIC sounding soundboard recording of Mark E. Smith and THE FALL from 1981. This is a MUST HAVE for fans we’re not kidding. RECOMMENDED.

FEMALE SPECIES – Tales of My Lost Love LP (Numero Group)

This is a really cool release focusing on two sisters who made music together as FEMALE SPECIES from the mid 60s through the 90s. The early stuff was firmly in the girl group garage style but as they progressed as songwriters they explored 70s AM radio soft rock,country pop etc…& managed to excel at all of the styles. Fans of girl groups & soft rock like Linda Rondstadt, Carole King et al should check this out!

MARY LATTIMORE & MAC McCAUGHAN – AVL LP (New Rain)

This second collaboration between folk harpist MARY LATTIMORE and SUPERCHUNK frontman MAC McCAUGHAN was recorded live in 2019 and released digitally in May of 2020, creating gentle ambient soundscapes out of harp and McCAUGHAN’s Casio as they interacted on stage.

BILL MACKAY & NATHAN BOWLES – Keys LP/CD (Drag City)

The talented & friendly Chicago guitarist Bill Mackay teamed up with the Virginia based banjo player of BLACK TWIG PICKERS for this fantastic duo record. Top notch playing with a mix of traditional sounding folk/bluegrass, nods at 60s British folkies & more. RECOMMENDED!

SILVER SYNTHETIC – Silver Synthetic LP (Third Man) limited color vinyl

This is the debut album by the New Orleans band SILVER SYNTHETIC. Super mellow rock with nods at “Loaded” era VELVET UNDERGROUND, BYRDS, CREEDENCE…etc… & even some nods at powerpop like TEENAGE FANCLUB with great vocal harmonies. 

SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE – Entertainment, Death LP/CD (Saddle Creek) limited color vinyl

We’re really excited to hear some new material from Philly weirdo-pop outfit SPIRIT OF THE BEEHIVE, who mix ethereal psychedelic shoegaze with sample-heavy electronics in the vein of Warp artists like BOARDS OF CANADA and ONEOHTRIX POINT NEVER, while remaining strange and ever-evolving in their compositions and styles. You hear bits of death metal, hazy trip-hop and glitchy electro, never settling too neatly into one or the other. This is a fascinatingly abstract pop record from one of the more vital experimental bands currently making music. RECOMMENDED!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

BELL ORCHESTRE – House Music LP (Erased Tapes)

BENNY SINGS – Music LP/CD (Stones Throw) limited color vinyl

BLACK CROWES – Shake Your Money Maker: 30th Anniversary Deluxe Edition 4LP (American)

ART BLAKEY & THE JAZZ MESSENGERS – Moanin’ LP (Blue Note) classic vinyl series

CHEAP TRICK – In Another World CD (BMG) vinyl coming in May

ANGEL BAT DAWID & THA BROTHERHOOD – Live CD (International Anthem) vinyl scheduled for May

DRY CLEANING – New Long Leg (4AD) limited yellow or black back in stock!!

WILLIE DUNN – Creation Never Sleeps, Creation Never Dies LP (Light in the Attic)

DVR – Tape 01 + Thru the City LP (XL)

GOLDFRAPP – Seventh Tree LP (BMG) limited yellow vinyl w/ art print

PETER MURPHY – Should the World Fail to Fall Apart LP (Beggars Arkive) blue vinyl

PETER MURPHY – Love Hysteria LP (Beggars Arkive) indigo vinyl

NICO – BBC 1971 LP (Gearbox) import with obi strip

REDS, PINKS & PURPLES – Uncommon Weather LP (Slumberland) blue vinyl

TONES ON TAIL – Pop LP (Beggars Arkive) RSD 2020 title back in stock!

NICK WATERHOUSE – Promenade Blues LP/CD (Innovative Leisure)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Wilcovered LP (BMG) available again on red vinyl

SOME IMPORTANT RESTOCKS

PINK FLOYD – Dark Side of the Moon LP

SUFJAN STEVENS – Come on Feel the Illinoise LP

THE STROKES – Is This It LP

TRIBE CALLED QUEST – Midnight Marauders LP

KANYE WEST – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy LP

3/26/21 New Releases

EL MICHELS AFFAIR – Yeti Season LP/CD/BOX SET (Big Crown) limited blue, black or red vinyl box set with coloring book

The 2021 album from EL MICHELS AFFAIR hooks you right away with the awesome “Unathi” that features the vocals of Piya Malik of THE SHACKS singing in Hindi. The song has a great groove & a 70s Turkish funk vibe. The rest of the album is a mix of classic E.M.A. style instrumental that blend elements of funk, Middle Eastern music & hip-hop & along with a few more vocal tracks that are just as catchy as the opener, especially the song “Murkit Gem” which expands on the Turkish funk sound even more. Fans of the other albums, vintage Middle Eastern funk/psych, KHRUANGBIN etc… should check this out. RECOMMENDED.

FLOATING POINTS & PHAROAH SANDERS w/ THE LONDON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA – Promises LP/CD (Luaka Bop) 180g coming hopefully in April!

What an incredibly exciting collaboration we have here between free jazz legend PHAROAH SANDERS & electronic producer FLOATING POINTS, who, backed by the London Symphony Orchestra, have made a magisterial nine-part odyssey through spiritual jazz and modern classical. Meditative, swirling, grandiose and intimate in equal measure — this will certainly be one of our favorite releases of 2021. HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!

LUNGFISH – Love is Love LP (Dischord) red vinyl

The classic 2003 album by the D.C. area drone punks LUNGFISH is available once again, remastered & on red vinyl. This record caused quite a stir when it was released back then & thankfully now you can get it again after being out of print for many years. 

MOUNTAIN GOATS – Songs for Pierre Chuvin LP/CD (Merge) limited pink vinyl

Originally released in March of 2020 as a streaming & tape-only album, “Songs for Pierre Chuvin” harkens back to John Darnielle’s salad days as a songwriter, with each of the ten tracks recorded into the same Panasonic boombox used for the first MOUNTAIN GOATS releases. In recapturing the rustic and shambolic feel of his early work, Darnielle translates his developed craft for song in a more immediate context. Available now for the first time on vinyl a year later, this is an obvious get for fans and a solid entry point into their vast catalog. RECOMMENDED.

MANSLAUGHTER 777 – World Vision Perfect LP/CD (Thrill Jockey)

Drummer collab between THE BODY’s Lee Buford and Zac Jones of BRAVEYOUNG, mixing sampled beats with live percussion to explore the territories of industrial, dub, hip-hop and broken beat. This is all unified by textures of static and hiss, making this reminiscent of the harsher side of ATARI TEENAGE RIOT. MARVELOUS.

RENEE REED – RENEE REED LP/CD (Keeled Scales) limited gold or black vinyl

Renee Reed is a singer/songwriter from Louisiana. With tight & efficient fingerstyle acoustic playing & folk songs with a 60s/70s British psych/folk influence, this makes us think of everything from Roy Harper to George Harrison with some vocal similarities to Angel Olsen but really this is some pretty unique stuff. 

SERPETWITHFEET – Deacon LP/CD (Secretly Canadian) limited brown or black vinyl

Josiah Wise returns as SERPENTWITHFEET in 2021. On his first album, Wise attempted to balance his religious upbringing with his sexuality. On “Deacon” he explores similar themes & the album feels even more gospel influenced than the first in some ways. This album has a more mellow & positive feel, sort of like a soulful version of BJORK’S “Homegenic” with some similarities to BLOOD ORANGE, D’ANGELO etc…

WRITHING SQUARES – Chart for the Solution LP/CD limited “hyperdrive” color vinyl or black

WRITHING SQUARES is a duo from Philadelphia featuring Kevin Nickles on sax, flute & synth & Daniel Provenzano or PURPLE HISS on bass & vocals. Their sound is a mix of 70s proto-punk ala CHROME, SUICIDE inspired post-punk, no wave, BIG BLACK, STOOGES, early

TRANS AM etc…

NEIL YOUNG – Young Shakespeare LP/LP box set/CD (Reprise)

We’re the biggest Neil fans on the planet & when we heard about this one coming out we wondered if we needed to hear more early 70s shows or not & you know what, WE DO. This show was recorded after the release of the legendary “After the Gold Rush” & just a few days after the now legendary Massey Hall show. Neil is in top form here singing & playing wise & some of the earliest known versions of songs like “Old Man”, “Needle & the Damage Done”, “Heart of Gold” etc… are featured on here. Another essential release from Neil’s vast archives. RECOMMENDED.

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

THE ANTLERS -Green to Gold LP/CD (Anti-) limited color or black vinyl

THE CLEAN – Mister Pop LP (Merge) first domestic US pressing

THE CLEAN – Unknown Country LP (Merge) first domestic US pressing

GALDRE VISIONS – Galdre Visions 12” (Leaving)

FREDDIE GIBBS/MADLIB – Pinata: 1974 Version (Madlib) RSD version with different cover art available again!

SLIM HARPO – Scratch My Back Baby LP (Americana Anthropology) mono reissue

JAMES MCALISTER – Scissortail LP/CD (37d03d)

ANTHONY MOORE – Out LP (Drag City)

ENNIO MORRICONE – Exorcist II (soundtrack) LP (Jackpot) color vinyl remaster

PEACERS – Blexxed Rec (Drag City)

POPCAAN – Fixtape LP (Ovo Sound) 

PYLON – Pylon Box (4CD) New West w/ free signed original show poster while supplies last (at Wicker Park only) 

PYLON – Chomp LP (New West) indie exclusive color vinyl w/ free signed original show poster while supplies last (at Wicker Park only)

PYLON – Gyrate LP (New West) indie exclusive color vinyl w/ free signed original show poster while supplies last (at Wicker Park only)

SAULT – Sault 5 CD (Forever Living Originals) BACK IN STOCK!!

SAULT – Sault 7 CD (Forever Living Originals) BACK IN STOCK!!

SAULT – Untitled (Black Is) LP/CD (Forever Living Originals) BACK IN STOCK!!

SAULT – Untitled (Rise) LP/CD (Forever Living Originals) BACK IN STOCK!!

SPOON – Gimme Fiction LP (Matador) remaster color or black vinyl

JOE STRUMMER – Assembly: The Collection LP/CD (Dark Horse) color or black vinyl

AARON LEE TASJAN – Tasjan! Tasjan! Tasjan! LP (New West)

JANE WEAVER – Flock LP (Fire)

WITCH – In the Past LP (Now Again) color vinyl

XIU XIU – Oh No LP/CD (Polyvinyl)

V/A – Edo Funk Explosion Vol 1. 2LP (Analog Africa)

3/19/21 New Releases

STEVE EARLE & THE DUKES – J.T. LP/CD (New West) limited red vinyl

We were shocked to hear of the death of JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE back in August 2020 at the age of 38, but even in a relatively short period of time the young singer-songwriter produced a rich body of work. As tribute to those songs and to the man who wrote them, JT’s father STEVE EARLE compiled a selection of covers performed with his band THE DUKES. These recordings are often heart-wrenching (particularly because many of the younger EARLE’s songs address struggles with addiction and loss), and yet the effect is often also cathartic; his songwriting shines through on these because the material avoids becoming overworked. RECOMMENDED.

GUIDED BY VOICES – Propellor LP/TAPE (Scat)

REISSUED AGAIN! “Vampire on Titus” is the record that introduced most of the world to the genius of Robert Pollard & GUIDED BY VOICES but in many ways the album that came out the year before was the album that got the ball rolling for Bob & the boys. Originally self-released by the band with many hand-made cover variants, “Propeller” is one of the best records in their vast discography that includes many classic songs that have been staples in their live sets ever since. Originals still sell for a hefty price & the other reissue isn’t easy to find either. This reissue features a different cover variant than the previous one.  

RECOMMENDED!

HERE LIES MAN – Ritual Divination LP (Riding Easy) now on vinyl!

HERE LIES MAN simplifies things a little this time around. Though there are still some nods at Africanrhythms, this one is more centered in heavy space rock with some hints of HAWKWIND. 

.MAGIC ROUNDABOUT – Sneaky Feeling 7” (Third Man)

MAGIC ROUNDABOUT existed only briefly in Manchester in the 80s & rubbed shoulders with bands like SPACEMEN 3, LOOP & MBV. The only thing they released in their short time as a group was on a rare cassette comp & these 2 songs were only recently discovered by Ian Masters of PALE SAINTS. Those of you that are obsessed with post-Velvets bands, the 80s psych revival, 80s & 90s lo-fi pop, JESUS & MARY CHAIN, SPACEMEN 3, Sarah Records bands etc…will freak over this. RECOMMENDED.

NEW AGE STEPPERS – New Age Steppers LP (On-U Sound)

NEW AGE STEPPERS – Action Battlefield LP (On-U Sound)

NEW AGE STEPPERS – Foundation Steppers LP (On-U Sound)

NEW AGE STEPPERS – Love Forever LP (On-U Sound)

NEW AGE STEPPERS – Avant Gardening LP (On-U Sound)

On-U Sound brings us some very welcome reissues from an essential member of the label’s catalog. NEW AGE STEPPERS embraced the melding of dub and punk that was being explored during the late 70s and early 80s, resulting in a heady, psychedelic sound that fits in with groups like 23 SKIDOO and AFRICAN HEAD CHARGE.

TENO AFRIKA – Amapiano Selections LP (Awesome Tapes From Africa)

Amapiano is a relatively new style of electronic music from South Africa. Starting in the 2010s in townships around the country, these bedroom artists & DJs spread their music mostly on WhatsApp. TENO AFRIKA from Pretoria is a young artist & his beats & production will likely be the intro to Amapiano for many people including us. Efficient production with nods at minimal techno & footwork. 

A.R.T. WILSON – Overworld LP (Numero Group)

Vinyl reissue of a 2014 cassette release that was originally composed as a soundtrack for a dance company in Australia. The sounds are a mix of 80s new age cassette releases, 90s video game soundtracks, vaporwave & artists like DISASTERPEACE. 

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

CANDY & THE KISSES – The Scepter Sessions LP (Sundazed) “butterscotch” vinyl

LANA DEL REY – Chemtrails Over the Country Club LP/CD (Polydor) limited yellow or 

    black vinyl

DIALECT – Under – Between LP (RVNG)

FLEET FOXES – SHORE LP/CD (Anti-) limited crystal clear color vinyl with limited lithos 

   while supplies last

GRANDADDY – Sophtware Slump ….. On a Wooden Piano LP (Dangerbird) cloudy clear 

   Vinyl

HERETICAL SECT – Rapturous Flesh Consumed (Gilead)

SOFIA KOURTESIS – Fresia Magdalena 12” (Technicolor)

MAGGOT BRAIN MAGAZINE #4 (Third Man)

MINT JULEP – In a Deep Dreamless Sleep LP (Western Vinyl)

ODISEE – Traveling Man LP (Mellow Music Group) 

PIERCE WITH ARROW – Shatter LP (Dais)

PUBLIC MEMORY – Ripped Apparition LP (Felte)

REAL NUMBERS – Brighter Than LP (Slumberland)

REALLY FROM – Really From LP (Top Shelf) red vinyl

RISE AGAINST – Nowhere Generation 7” (Loma Vista)

TEENAGE HALLOWEEN – Teenage Halloween (Don Giovanni)

3/12/21 New Releases

DON CHERRY – Cherry Jam LP (Gearbox)

A nice reissue by Gearbox of these 1965 recordings of Don Cherry from Danish national radio. Three Don Cherry originals are included along with a cover of the song “You Took Advantage of Me.” 

EYEHATEGOD – A History of Nomadic Behavior LP/CD (Century Media) limited evergreen color vinyl or black

The Louisiana sludge lords EYEHATEGOD return with their first new record in 7 years. Tons of nasty riffs & odd time signatures that make us think of SAINT VITUS & even BLACK FLAG at times. Fans won’t be disappointed with this riff fest!

GANG OF FOUR – 77-81 5LP/TAPE box set (Matador)

Amazing box set features remastered versions of the classic albums “Entertainment!” & “Solid Gold”, an LP of singles, a great sounding live LP from 1980 that’s exclusive to this box & a cassette with 26 outtakes & rarities that have never been released before. The box also includes a 100 page book. RECOMMENDED!

MICROPHONES – Foghorn Tape LP (P.W. Elverum & Sun)

Here’s a limited edition, surprise MICROPHONES LP & it’s an ambient/drone record of a “foghorn” sound that’s actually a pitch-bent bass sound that he uses in the background of “Glow Pt. 2” & some other records. 

LINDA SMITH – Another Time: 1988- 1996 LP/CD (Captured Tracks)

Like many independent artists in the 80s & 90s, the 4 track tape recorder was a main weapon & that was certainly the case for the NYC/Baltimore based musician Linda Smith. Smith played & recorded these songs at home & they share a lot of the same charm as other lo-fi artists of the era like SEBADOH, early MOUNTAIN GOATS, Simon Joyner etc… with some post-VELVETS/RAINCOATS 60’s girl group sounds mixed in too. Some of these songs were released on tapes & 7″ by labels like Slumberland & Harriet. RECOMMENDED!

A WINGED VICTORY FOR THE SULLEN – Invisible Cities LP/CD (Artificial Pinearch) limited “beer” color vinyl

The duo of Adam Wiltzie and Dustin O’Halloran release their score for the stage production of “Invisible Cities”, based on the novel by Italo Calvino. These are gentle and meditative ambient pieces that showcase the pair’s mastery of tone and dynamics. Good stuff!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

ANOHNI – I Will Survive/RNC 7” (Secretly Canadian)

BIG SEAN – Detroit 2 LP (Def Jam)

PHOEBE BRIDGERS – Punisher LP (Dead Oceans) finally back in. we have a bunch!

PHOEBE BRIDGERS – Stranger in the Alps LP (Dead Oceans) finally back in. we have a bunch!

SARAH DAVACHI – All My Circles Run LP (Late Music) limited gold vinyl reissue

EL MICHELS AFFAIR – Murkit Gem/Cham Cham 7” (Big Crown)

NILS FRAHM – Tripping with Nils Frahm 2LP (Erased Tapes)

LAKE STREET DIVE – Obviously LP/CD (Nonesuch) limited color or black vinyl

SUNBURNED HAND OF THE MAN – Pick a Day to Die LP (Three Lobed)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – London is the Place for Me: Trinidadian Calypso in London 1950-56 LP (Honest Jons) back in print!

ROB ZOMBIE – Lunar Injection Kool Aid Eclipse LP/CD (Nuclear Blast)

3/5/21 New Releases

AZITA – Glen Echo LP (Drag City)

“Glen Echo” is the first album since 2012 by the Chicago treasure Azita. The album was written & recorded by Azita & she played every instrument. Fantastic & charming rockers with that shambolic VU charm that so many artists wish they could capture & nods at Drag City greatness over the years ala SMOG & ROYAL TRUX, Azita has brought us a lot of joy with this one. RECOMMENDED.

MIDWIFE – Like Author, Like Daughter LP (Flenser) reissue

Vinyl reissue of this excellent album by the Denver based band MIDWIFE led by the talented Madeline Johnston. This was recorded at the former Denver DIY space Rhinoceropolis where Johnston used to live & make music. Similar to the 2020 Reckless favorite “Forever”, this one is a mix of slow core & shoegaze & will appeal to fans of things like CODEINE, JESUS & MARY CHAIN, JESU Etc…

MOUSE ON MARS – AAI 2LP/CD (Thrill Jockey)

The duo of Jan St. Werner & Andi Toma reteam in 2021 for this project exploring the creative potential of working with artificial intelligence. “AAI” serves as a sort of dialogue with machine learning, building on the musical ideas of an AI by adding polyrhythmic, percussive structure and tweaking its voice as an instrument to more closely resemble humanity, allowing that AI to use the album to tell a story about itself. Very ambitious, but even without the concept this is an exciting and extensive collection of leftfield pop music.

PAINTED SHRINES – Heaven & Holy LP (Woodsist)

PAINTED SHRINES is Jeremy of WOODS & Glenn of SKYGREEN LEOPARDS. Folky indie rock tunes that remind us of Flying Nun greats like THE CHILLS & THE BATS with some hints of 60s West Coast rock like THE BYRDS. 

PRIMITIVE KNOT – Fight the Future LP (Phage Tapes)

PRIMITIVE KNOT is a one-man project from Manchester & it’s kind of hard to pin down. There’s a bunch of releases on Bandcamp, some tape releases, a number of stand-alone cover songs & finally this LP on the Minnesota label Phage Tapes. The first thing you’ll notice is RIFFS. There are tons of great riffs. The guitar sound is super crunchy & there are nods at 80s industrial & proto-punk but there are also elements of NWOBHM, harsh noise & space rock. Imagine a combo of KILLING JOKE, BIG BLACK, BRAINBOMBS, HAWKWIND & MOTORHEAD & MINISTRY & you might have an idea what this sounds like. FANTASTIC STUFF!

75 DOLLAR BILL – Live at Tubby’s LP (Grapefruit)

Almost exactly a year before we’re writing this, the pandemic was on our minds but we didn’t know exactly how it was all going to pan out & 75 DOLLAR BILL was playing a show in Kingston, NY with an expanded group. It’s weird to think back to a small club show full of maskless people enjoying some good grooves but this record should help you remember that at least a little. All of the jams are over 9 minutes & two them clocking in at over 20 & they sound great. The band was backed up by some sax players & viola & of course it rules. RECOMMENDED.

EMILY A. SPRAGUE – Hill, Flower, Fog LP (RVNG)

The California based musician Emily A. Sprague’s 2021 album “Hill, Flower, Fog” is a beautiful collection of chilled-out modular pieces that owe as much to APHEX TWIN’s ambient pieces as they do 80s new age. RECOMMENDED.

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Numero 95: Virtual Experience Software LP (Numero Group)

Like a lot of things when they’re new, 90’s computer music & digital animation, internet culture seemed kind of silly & overly futuristic at the time. But good art stands the test of time & some digital art from that era has aged rather gracefully. A whole genre of music blossomed for love of music, video games & CGI of that era called Vaporwave & this great comp by our friends at Numero examines some of those pre-Vaporwave artists. The LP comes in a replica floppy disc sleeve & the music is appropriately icy & digitized sounding.RECOMMENDED!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES 

CHET BAKER – Chet LP (Craft)

CHET BAKER – It Could Happen to You LP (Craft)

CHET BAKER – Plays the Best of Lerner & Loewe LP (Craft)

BLACK SABBATH – Heaven & Hell 2LP/2CD Deluxe Edition (Warner) 

BLACK SABBATH – Mob Rules 2LP/2CD Deluxe Edition (Warner) 

CARIBOU – Suddenly Remixes EP 12” (Merge)

IAN WILLIAM CRAIG & DANIEL LENTZ – In a Word LP (RVNG)

FORBIDDEN – Forbidden Evil LP (Combat) blue vinyl limited to 300 or black

FRUIT BATS – Pet Parade LP/CD (Merge) Peak Vinyl coming in April

JUNGLE PUSSY – JP4 LP (Jagjaguwar)

JIMBO MATHUS & ANDREW BIRD – These 13 LP (Wegawam) indie only color or black vinyl

KINGS OF LEON – When You See Yourself LP/CD (RCA) limited indie only color or black vinyl

MUSH – Lines Redacted LP (Memphis Industries)

OFEGE – How Do You Feel LP (Tidal Waves)

NANCY SINATRA – Start Walkin’ 1965- 1976 2LP (Light in the Attic) limited color or black vinyl

SUSS – Promise LP (Northern Spy)

TIGERS JAW – I Won’t Care How You Remember LP/CD (Hopeless) limited color vinyl

TINDERSTICKS – Distractions LP/CD (City Slang) limited blue vinyl

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Field Works: Cedars LP (Temporary Residence)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Rad (Soundtrack) LP (Curb)

GILLIAN WELCH & DAVE RAWLINGS – All the Good Times Past & Gone CD (Acony)

2/26/21 New Releases

CAMILA FUCHS – Kids Talk Sun LP (Felte) yellow vinyl

CAMILA FUCHS is a Lisbon based duo & this 2021 album was produced by Pete Kember of SPACEMEN 3. Epic electronic pop with some experimental touches that will appeal to fans of THE KNIFE, BJORK etc…

CLOUD NOTHINGS – The Shadow I Remember LP/CD (Carpark) spectral light whirl vinyl

Pretty great 2021 album from CLOUD NOTHINGS, who take a return trip over to Electrical Audio to replicate their signature layered-yet-pummeling sound, resulting in a welcome, no-nonsense collection to concise punk songwriting. Featuring contributions from BRETT NAUCKE and MACIE STEWART (of OHMME), this should again appeal to fans of JAWBOX, DRIVE LIKE JEHU and HUSKER DU. No surprise here: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

DISAPPEARS + STEVE SHELLEY + WHITE/LIGHT 2LP (Vampire Blues)

Limited edition 2LP/45RPM release of these epic collab jams from 2009 featuring the first line-up of
DISAPPEARS, SONIC YOUTH drummer Steve Shelley & SONIC YOUTH sound man Jeremy Lemos’ WHITE/LIGHT band that also featured PINEBENDER guitarist Matt Clark. This is very much like DISAPPEARS but more “out” which heavy grooves. Comes in a bootleg style sleeve. We’re the only store in town that has these so get em here! RECOMMENDED.

GENEVA JACUZZI – Lamaze LP (Mexican Summer)

Geneva Jacuzzi is a L.A. based musician & performance artist & “Lamaze” is a collection of recordings from the early/mid 2000s reissued again by Mexican Summer. Hints of 80s dance, new wave & early hip-hop production with great analogue sounds that will appeal to fans of minimal wave, vaporwave, Italo disco & artists like Saada Bonaire, Patrick Cowley, Nina Hagen etc…RECOMMENDED!

PJ HARVEY – Stories From the City, Stories From the Sea LP (Island)

One of our favorite PJ Harvey records is finally available again. Some of her finest songs ever from the early 2000s featuring a great duet with Thom Yorke.

PJ HARVEY – Stories From the City, Stories From the Sea – Demos LP (Island)

MADLIB – Sound Ancestors (Arranged by Kieran Hebden) LP (Madlib Invasion)

“Sound Ancestors” has been out in the world streaming for a few months now & we’re very excited to be able to finally stock these in the racks. This isn’t the first collaboration between MADLIB & Kieran Hebden aka FOUR TET but it’s certainly the most fully realized one. Hebden acts more as an arranger or editor for MADLIB’s beats & samples. The album has a great flow & bounces from psych-rock breaks to soulful vocal passages, a decent variety of guitar samples & some jazzy excursions all combined with MADLIB’s insane knack for digging out the coolest beats. Hebden’s thoughtful arranging gives everything enough room to breathe & it really grows on you with repeat listens. AN INSTANT CLASSIC!

MENAHAN STREET BAND – The Exciting Sounds of Menahan Street Band LP/CD (Dunham) limited green vinyl

Great collection of throwback cuts from these Daptone staples, whose dusty & warm instrumental soul harkens back to artists like THE DELFONICS, THE STYLISTICS, and ISAAC HAYES but with a more leftfield psych twist. Excellent stuff!

NIGHTSHIFT – Zoe LP/CD/TAPE (Trouble in Mind) color or black vinyl

NIGHTSHIFT is a melodic post-punk band from GLASGOW. With nods at early Rough Trade singles & angular groups like THE SLITS, RAINCOATS, THE FALL & more 

recently WARPAINT. 

STEREOLAB – Electrically Possessed: Switched On Vol. 4 3LP/2CD (Warp) #’D mirriboard edition for both formats; LP is very limited!

We are all blessed to receive a fourth installment of the mighty STEREOLABs “Switched On” series after over twenty years since volume three, “Aluminum Tunes”. Featuring rare cuts from 1995 up through 2008, this is an expansive and wide-ranging collection that is sure to remain floating around in your head. MAGNIFIQUE!

NEIL YOUNG & CRAZY HORSE – Way Down in the Rust Bucket 4LP/4LP deluxe edition/2CD (Reprise)

2021 is set to be possibly the biggest year yet for Neil’s archive releases. We know of at least 3 that are coming & there are likely more. This 4LP set features the earliest live recordings of the “Ragged Glory” tunes in front of an intimate crowd in 1990. The recordings are raw & excellent sounding. RECOMMENDED!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

ALTIN GUN – Yol LP (ATO) limited color or black vinyl

JULIEN BAKER – Little Oblivions LP/CD (Matador) limited color or black vinyl

BLACK CROWES – Shake Your Money Maker LP/2CD remastered

BLANCK MASS – In Ferneaux LP/CD (Sacred Bones) color or black vinyl

BRIJEAN – Feelings LP/CD (Ghostly) color or black vinyl

RAY CHARLES – Best of Ray Charles: The Atlantic Years 2LP (Atlantic)

ALICE COOPER – Detroit Stories LP/CD (Ear Music)

DEFTONES – White Pony: 20th Anniversary Edition 2LP/2CD box set (Reprise)

JIMMY EDGAR – Cheetah Bend LP (Innovative Leisure)

FLEETWOOD MAC – Mr. Wonderful LP (Blue Horizon)

FLEETWOOD MAC – Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac LP (Blue Horizon)

FLEETWOOD MAC – Pious Bird of Good Omen LP (Blue Horizon)

FUN. – Some Nights LP (Fueled by Ramen) silver vinyl

HOLD STEADY – Open Door Policy LP/CD (Thirty Tigers) limited indie only color or black vinyl

CHAKA KHAN – Epiphany: The Best of Chaka Khan LP (Reprise) burgundy vinyl

KILLING JOKE – Killing Joke (Spinefarm) black/clear color vinyl

LIL’ KIM – Notorious Kim 2LP (Atlantic) color vinyl

MARAL – Push LP (Leaving)

MELVINS – Working With God LP (Ipecac) color vinyl

MELVINS – Hostile Ambient Takeover LP (Ipecac) limited color vinyl 

MELVINS – Gluey Porch Treatments LP (Ipecac) color vinyl

PINEGROVE – Amperland, NY LP/CD (Rough Trade)

ROOSEVELT – Polydans LP (City Slang) limited red vinyl

WESLEY SCHULTZ – Vignettes LP (Dualtone)

SIVUCA – Sivuca LP (Real Gone) limited purple vinyl

SMERZ – Believer LP/CD (XL)

KARIMA WALKER – Waking the Dreaming Body CD (Keeled Scales) 

WAU WAU COLLECTIF – Yaral Sa Doom LP/CD (Sahel Sounds)