Category: New Releases

8/20/21 NEW RELEASES

DEAFHEAVEN – Infinite Granite LP/CD (Sargent House)

Never a band to rest on their laurels, DEAFHEAVEN goes in yet another new direction for “Infinite Granite”, taking their sound further into SLOWDIVE-like shoegaze and rounding the blackened sheets of noise with more glossy, synthesizer-friendly production. But the most notable new element comes courtesy of vocalist George Clarke, all but entirely replacing his signature yelp with a more subdued delivery. It may take the listener a few passes to digest the new sound – and this is certainly the least “metal” record in their catalogue yet – but the result is ultimately rewarding, earning the exultant, anthemic crescendos that anchor these tracks. This is an excellent crossover metal record that will appeal to fans of GY!BE, HUM, late UNWOUND and the older shoegaze of MY BLOODY VALENTINE and SLOWDIVE. On Sargent House and RECOMMENDED.

FRIGATE – Dreams of the Deep LP (Siltbreeze)

Mysterious outsider noise/acid rock from 1977. Supposedly FRIGATE might not have even been the band name but it was loosely related to the original release so we guess that’s why Siltbreeze went that way? Who knows. Sort of shambolic STOOGES grooves with somewhat “out” soloing, stream of consciousness singing etc…WILD!

GA-20 – Does Hound Dog Taylor LP/CD (Colemine) indie only color or black vinyl

GA-20 is a Boston based band & they’ve made an album celebrating the music of the great bluesman Hound Dog Taylor. Their sound is stripped-down & authentic sounding Chicago style blues with tight drumming & fuzzed-out guitars. RECOMMENDED.

MIDWIFE – Luminol (Flenser) now on vinyl

Denver’s Madeline Johnston returns with a new album under the MIDWIFE name. Her 2020 album “Forever” was a favorite of ours during the early days of the pandemic in 2020 & it’s sad that we’re getting to 2nd pandemic albums by artists now. Like “Forever”, “Luminol” is a slowed-down take on shoegaze, or slow core for you 90s fans. Great guitar sounds & dreamy vocals that will appeal to fans of JESUS & MARY CHAIN, JESU, CODEINE etc…RECOMMENDED.

TROPICAL FUCK STORM – Deep States CD/TAPE (Joyful Noise) vinyl coming in November

The Melbourne band TROPICAL FUCK STORM return with a new album for our frantic & confused times in 2021. Spastic & rhythmic songs with blown-out samples & dubbed-out beats that sound like a mix of wilder side of THE CLASH, MAKE-UP, SLEAFORD MODS etc…

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM – Primordial Arcana LP/CD (Relapse) limited indie only color or regular color vinyl

The Pacific Northwest band WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM is one of the first American black metal bands & they’ve been at it for almost two decades now.  “Primordial Arcana” is the first album they’ve written, recorded & produced entirely on their own. The band has always written about the beauty & power of nature & this one is no different. Their imagery of thick forests with fallen trees, animal skulls, storms & mountains is a constant as it is in nature, with life & death being the only truths. 

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES & RESTOCKS

BEACH BUNNY – Prom Queen EP (Mom + Pop)

KENNY BURRELL – Midnight Blue LP (Blue Note) classic vinyl series

GRANT GREEN – Idle Moments LP (Blue Note) classic vinyl series

CHRISSIE HYNDE – Standing in the Doorway: Chrissie Hynde Sings Bob Dylan LP/CD (BMG)

LCD SOUNDSYSTEM – LCD Soundsystem LP (DFA)

LORDE – Solar Power LP/”music box edition” (Crush Music) limited indie only brown vinyl or black. The “music box edition” looks like a CD but there is no physical CD Inside, instead there’s a high-res download w/ bonus tracks, booklet, poster, cards etc…

POETS OF RHYTHM – Discern/Define LP (Daptone) peach color vinyl

OLIVE RODRIGO – Sour LP (Geffen)

STURGILL SIMPSON – The Ballad of Dood & Juanita CD (High Top Mountain)

SLEEP – Dopesmoker LP (Southern Lord)

TOE – For Long Tomorrow LP (Top Shelf) color vinyl

TOE – The Book About My Idle Plot on a Vague Anxiety LP (Top Shelf) color vinyl

8/13/21 NEW RELEASES 

JADE BIRD – Different Kinds of Light LP/CD (Glass Note)

The Austin based musician Jade Bird returns with her much anticipated second album. Folky Americana that will appeal to fans of Neko Case, Gillian Welch & Angel Olsen. Really good stuff. 

LUCINDA CHUA – Antidotes LP (4AD)

This release from singer & cellist LUCINDA CHUA (best known for her Kranky Records project FELIX) combines 2019’s “Antidotes 1” EP with a new follow-up, using placid ambient pads, gently impressionistic vocals and an orchestral sense of dynamic swell to portray her re-emergent sense of identity and self (both in terms of her musical self and her Chinese heritage) that followed a period of nine months when she was neither composing or even listening to music. In tandem, both EPs paint a gently evocative picture of an artist and her processes of self-expression. Imagine a PORTISHEAD album without the beats. RECOMMENDED.

JUNGLE – Loving in Stereo LP/CD (Caiola) limited color or black vinyl with sticker sheet while supplies last

The British duo JUNGLE return with another classic album of modern soul & dance music. Their third album is the first on their own imprint Caiola Records & the songs are infectious & immediately memorable. Fans of their previous work, DAFT PUNK, Mark Ronson & even the more underground sounds of SAULT will love this.RECOMMENDED.

JOSE MAURO – A Viagem Das Horas LP (Far Out)

Why haven’t you heard of Jose Mauro? His records have been impossibly rare and he was thought to have died right after recording this material! Comparable to Edu Lobo, Milton Nascimento, and Arthur Verocai, this is heavily orchestrated Brazilian pop with an experimental edge recorded in 1970 that recalls the aesthetic of Scott Walker, Serge Gainsbourg, and Beach Boys etc. as well. RECOMMENDED!

JEFF PARKER – JP’s Myspace Beats LP (International Anthem) blue or black vinyl

Our friend Jeff Parker might be in L.A. now but we still remember the good old days when we could stop by Rodan after closing up for one of his Tuesday night jazz sets or maybe check out one of his DJ sets at Danny’s Tavern (RIP). Obviously these songs are from the early 2000s based on the title & goes back to Parker’s DJ days when he was experimenting with hip-hop style beat making with a serious MADLIB vibe but with the added bonus of his extensive jazz

background. AMAZING STUFF!

TAR – Handsome LP (No Blow) reissue, limited edition

TAR – Jackson LP (No Blow) reissue, limited edition

TAR – Roundhouse LP (No Blow) reissue, limited edition

Three great records by the Chicago noise-rock legends TAR are back in print in limited editions. TAR were known for their tough, no bullshit sound that had a similar almost blue collar approach as their fellow Chicagoans NAKED RAYGUN but with more driving, almost machine-like beat. Their shining metallic guitars only added to that big city, rugged Chicago vibe. Fans of that Am Rep, Touch & Go sound, bands like JESUS LIZARD, SHELLAC,LAUGHING HYENAS, JAWBOX etc…must get these. HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!!

EMMA-JEAN THACKRAY – Yellow LP/CD (Movementt)

London-based trumpeter EMMA-JEAN THACKRAY makes her full-length debut with “Yellow”, but this follows a slew of EPs & 12″ singles (including a collaboration with MAKAYA McCRAVEN) that has built her reputation in London’s vibrant jazz scene. THACKRAY’s music draws from more electronic influence like Chicago house, 90s R&B and nu jazz, creating soulful compositions that should appeal to fans of KUNIYUKI, ST GERMAIN, ERYKAH BADU and the more electronic artists on Int’l Anthem like RESAVOIR and DAMON LOCKS. RECOMMENDED!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES & RESTOCKS

TORI AMOS – Under the Pink LP (Atlantic)

CHORUSING – Half Mirror LP (Western Vinyl)

EL MICHELS AFFAIR MEETS LIAM BAILEY – Ekundayo Inversions LP/CD (Big Crown)

FLOATING POINTS / PHAROAH SANDERS / LONDON S.O. – Promises LP (Luaka Bop) back in stock!

NILS FRAHM – Graz LP (Erased Tapes)

GRATEFUL DEAD – Grateful Dead (Skull & Roses) LP (Rhino)

JAYDA G – DJ-Kicks LP (!K7)

JEALOUS – Lover / What’s Your Damage?

JOY ORBISON – Still Slipping Vol. 1 LP/CD (XL)

KHRUANGBIN – Barn Breaks 7” (Dead Oceans)

KILLERS – Pressure Machine LP (Island)

MEDIA JEWELER – The Sublime Sculpture of Being Alive LP (Fire Talk)

NILSSON – Son of Schmilsson (Original Master Recording) 2LP (Mobile Fidelity)

PEARL JAM – No Code LP (Epic) remastered

PHARCYDE – Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde LP (Craft)

THE POETS OF RHYTHM – Discern / Define LP (Daptone) limited color vinyl

SADE – Best Of Sade LP (Sony)

JOAN SHELLEY – Electric Ursa LP (No Quarter) color vinyl

JOAN SHELLEY – Ginko LP (No Quarter) color vinyl

SUN RA – Lanquidity 4LP/2CD (Strut)

VIAL – LOUDMOUTH LP (Get Better)

WEDNESDAY – Twin Plagues LP/TAPE (Orindal) color or black vinyl

8/6/21 NEW RELEASES 

DARKTHRONE – Eternal Hails LP (Peaceville) limited green vinyl

“Eternal Hails” is the 19th album by the legendary Norwegian black metal duo DARKTHRONE. We’re not sure how Fenriz & Nocturno Culto manage to still sound fresh so deep in their career but they have done that on this fantastically titled 2021 album. The classic nods are there of course like MOTORHEAD & CELTIC FROST but we’re also hearing hints of SST Records like later Rollins BLACK FLAG & ST. VITUS. These guys never disappoint! RECOMMENDED.

ELUVIUM – Virga II LP (Temporary Residence)

We LOVED Matthew Robert Cooper’s return as ELUVIUM in 2020 with “Virga I.” That EP of deep, luscious drones was a perfect winter record & now over a year into the pandemic we can certainly use some more mind-altering & mellow ambient music. Beautiful loops & drones that continue on the path of the first volume & also remind us of APHEX TWIN’s legendary ambient pieces, Rafael Anton Irisarri etc…RECOMMENDED.

LINGUA IGNOTA – Sinner Get Ready LP/CD (Sargent House) limited red vinyl

Following up the beautiful and intense “Caligula” in 2019, Kristin Hayter returns for “Sinner Get Ready”. Drawing even more inspiration from Christian mysticism and zealotry to conjure the feeling of deep religious fervor, this balances a critique of corrupt American faith with an evocation of redemption (in the very bloody, “Catholic” sort of way). “Sinner” strips down the power electronics of previous LINGUA IGNOTA albums to rely on Hayter’s classically-trained voice and a more subtle, atmospheric sound design, resulting in a record that is metal-adjacent in spirit more than in sound. For fans of CHELSEA WOLFE, DIAMANDA GALAS, Gregorian chant, candles, nuns, etc. RECOMMENDED!

ALAN VEGA – After Dark LP/CD (In the Red)

Following up “Mutator” courtesy of Sacred Bones, In the Red also digs into the Alan Vega archives to release the final recordings with a live band by NYCart punk legend Alan Vega. Recorded in 2015 when Vega was 78 (!!) & after he’d mostly recovered from a stroke, “After Dark” has a loose, jammy feel not too dissimilar to the great “Cubist Blues” album. Sort of bluesy, sort of STOOGES-y with Vega’s legendary vocal delivery. Great stuff!

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Country Funk III: 1975-1982 LP/CD (Light in the Attic) limited color or black vinyl

Volume 3 of the great Country Funk series on Light on the Attic gets into the late 70s & early 80s so you know some disco is gonna be mixed in there. There’s some heavy hitters on this one including Dolly Parton, Jerry Reed, Tony Joe White, Conway Twitty, Ronnie Milsap & more. RECOMMENDED.

SVEN WUNDER – Natura Morta LP (PIano Piano)

The Swedish musician Sven Wunder returns with another brilliant album. “Natura Morta” (dead nature in Italian) is another term for still life painting. Wunder uses a variety of instruments to paint his musical still lifes including strings, flute, piano & various percussion. The results are a mix of 70s film soundtracks, Turkish music, 60s easy listening, bossa nova & composers like David Axelrod & Quincy Jones. RECOMMENDED!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES & RESTOCKS

BLOOD INCANTATION – Hidden History of the Human Race LP (Dark Descent) green or black vinyl

SONNY CLARK – My Conception LP (Blue Note) Blue Note Tone Poet Series

DAFT PUNK – Random Access Memories LP (Columbia)

ELEVENTH DREAM DAY – Since Grazed LP (Comedy Minus One)

FRANZ FERDINAND – Franz Ferdinand LP (Domino) back in print!

FRANZ FERDINAND – You Could Have It So Much Better LP (Domino) back in print!

FRANZ FERDINAND – Tonight LP (Domino) back in print!

GEORGE HARRISON – All Things Must Pass 3LP/5LP/8LP/2CD/3CD/5CD (Capitol)

MAC DEMARCO – Salad Days LP (Captured Tracks)

MAC DEMARCO – 2 LP (Captured Tracks)

J DILLA – Donuts LP (Stones Throw) smile cover

BRIAN JACKSON, ADRIAN YOUNGE & ALI SHAHEED MUHAMMAD – Jazz is Dead 8:    

    Brian Jackson LP (Jazz is Dead)

KRYPTOGRAF – Kryptograf LP (Apollon)

LCD SOUNDSYSTEM – The Long Goodbye 5LP box set (DFA)

LIARS – The Apple Drop LP/CD (Mute)

RADIOHEAD – In Rainbows LP (XL) 

SHITKID – Sort Stjerne! LP (PNKSLM)

THE STEOPLES – Wide Through the Eyes of No One LP (Stones Throw)

STR4TA – Aspects LP (Brownswood)

THE UMBRELLAS – The Umbrellas LP (Slumberland)

UNWOUND – Repetition LP (Numero) limited color or black

WHITE FLOWERS – Day by Day LP (Tough Love)

YARD ACT – Dark Days 12” (Zen F.C.)

7/30/21 NEW RELEASES 

GUARDIAN SINGLES – Guardian Singles LP/CD (Trouble In Mind) limited color or black vinyl

GUARDIAN SINGLES are a great band from Auckland, NZ & they combine the sounds of Kiwi legends that came before them like legends THE CLEAN & BAILTER SPACE with post-punk sounds of bands like WIPERS, THE SOUND & WIRE. RECOMMENDED.

KING WOMAN – Celestial Blues LP/CD (Relapse)

KING WOMAN is a project of the California musician Kristina Esfandiari. This is more of a gothic hard rock album than a metal album but it IS heavy. While listening we kept thinking this is what a heavy Sharon Van Etten album might sound like. Fans of Chelsea Wolfe, THOU, Emma Ruth Rundle, BORIS etc… will dig this. RECOMMENDED.

7 SECONDS – The Crew LP (Trust) deluxe reissue on red/black galaxy vinyl

The legendary 1984 album “The Crew” by the Reno, NV hardcore legends 7 SECONDS has been remastered for this deluxe reissue. Led by vocalist Kevin Seconds, 7 SECONDS released some of the best hardcore records of the early 80s & “The Crew” is without a doubt one of the best albums in the genre. AS RECOMMENDED AS THEY GET!!

TORRES – Thirstier LP/CD (Merge) “Peak Vinyl” edition

Mackenzie Scott returns as TORRES for her second album on Merge, taking her wry, confessional songwriting and bolstering it with a heavier and more anthemic sound. There are shades of MITSKI in the boisterousness and theatricality here, as well as some heavy 90s alt-rock vibes in the HOLE or MUDHONEY vein, and while TORRES has moved around quite a lot with her sound, this is her performing her most secure, cathartic expressions to date. Superb!

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Cold Wave #2 LP/CD (Soul Jazz)

The second “Cold Wave” volume from Soul Jazz further explores the new sounds influenced by the darkened corners of late-70s & early-80s electronic pop. This edition features cuts from France (KRIKOR), Germany (TOLOUSE LOW TRAX), the Netherlands (JOB SIFRE), the UK (DAVE I.D.) and elsewhere across Europe, as these songs show off the steely, nostalgic sound that’s been updated for contemporary times. Absolutely under no circumstances should you be sleeping on this one. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

BLEACHERS – Take the Sadness Out of Saturday Night LP (RCA) indie only exclusive artwork

JAIMIE BRANCH – Fly or Die Live CD (International Anthem) LP coming later this year

CZARFACE – Every Hero Needs a Villain LP (Brick)

JOÃO DONATO, ADRIAN YOUNGE & ALI SHAHEED MUHAMMAD – Jazz is Dead 7: João Donato LP (Jazz is Dead)

BILLIE EILISH – Happier Than Ever LP/CD/CS (Interscope) with silky scarf while supplies last!

ARETHA FRANKLIN – Aretha LP (Rhino)

FELA RANSOME KUTI & THE AFRICA 70 – Open & Close LP (Knitting Factory)

LOS LOBOS – Native Sons (New West)

L7 – Hungry For Stink LP (Real Gone) limited red / yellow vinyl

A LETTER HOME – Have a Good Old Fashioned Christmas LP (Sundazed) white vinyl

LOS LOBOS – Native Sons LP (New West) limited color vinyl

MANZANITA Y SU CONJUNTO – Trujillo, Peru 1971-1973 LP (Analog Africa)

RUTH MASCELLI (of SPECIAL INTEREST) – A Night at the Baths LP (Disciples)

MF DOOM – Operation Doomsday LP (Metal Face)

PANIC AT THE DISCO – A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out LP (Fueled by Ramen) silver vinyl reissue

PRINCE – Welcome 2 America LP/CD/ box set (Sony)

CLAIRE ROUSAY – Collection CD (Mended Dreams)

CLAIRE ROUSAY – Twin Bed CS (Mended Dreams)

SLUM VILLAGE – Fantastic Volume II LP (Ne’astra)

UGK – Ridin’ Dirty LP (Get On Down)

WOMBO – Blossomlooksdownuponus LP (Fire Talk) yellow vinyl

YOLA – Stand For Myself LP/CD (Easy Eye Records) limited color or black vinyl

ZLR – Our Savings LP (American Dreams)

7/23/21 NEW RELEASES 

ANIKA – Changes LP/CD/CASSETTE (Sacred Bones)

The Berlin based singer Anika Henderson returns with her first album in 11 years. “Change” is her most accessible album yet & we can definitely say that this is a proper “pop” album. The dub & trip-hop influences are still there but everything is cleaner & much less scuzzy sounding than her previous solo work. Some moments almost sound like Sharon Van Etten, SAULT or even BECK (musically that is) but with Anika’s unique, avant twist. RECOMMENDED!

MOLLY BURCH – Romantic Images LP (Captured Tracks)

The Austin based musician Molly Burch returns with “Romantic Images.” Burch has a great voice that reminds us a lot of Angel Olsen but she’s gone in a more pop direction this time. Hints of 80s pop, 70’s r&b & funk & contemporary dance pop. We hear hints of everything from Blondie to Robyn, ST. VINCENT & DAFT PUNK. This is a really fun album! 

ERIKA DE CASIER – Sensational LP/CD (4AD)

Copenhagen-based singer ERIKA DE CASIER moves to 4AD to follow up 2019’s excellent “Essentials”, a release that saw DE CASIER plant one foot firmly in the world of dance music, collaborating with producers DJ SPORTS and CENTRAL. “Sensational” sees DE CASIER lean further into the influence of 90s R&B and quiet storm (think later SADE) to phenomenal results, adorning her gentle melodic lines with warm, detailed production that uses motifs from UK garage, future jazz and even touches of Windham Hill new age. Still, even with all of these influences, this is a record anchored by DE CASIER and her voice, which moves easily from confident to sultry to introspective, never losing power even at its most quiet moments. This is one of our favorite pop records of the last few years, one that both immediately grabs and also rewards multiple listens. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

DARKSIDE – Spiral LP/CD (Matador)

The duo of Nicolas Jaar and Dave Harrington make their long-awaited follow-up to 2013’s “Psychic”, and these guys will make those Sennheiser audiophile headphones that you dropped $2K on very happy, with uber-detailed floating production sliding in & out of crisp guitar lines and ethereal vocals. There’s a sense of planned chaos to this thing, as everything seems jammy and impromptu yet finds a way to lock in to the overall concept. A welcome return for these guys on Matador.

R.E.M. – Radio Free Europe/Sitting Still 7” (Craft)

The legendary debut 7” that launched the career of one of America’s best bands has been reissued for the first time ever thanks to Craft Recordings. We’re so glad to be able to stock this in our racks! RECOMMENDED.

OTHER IMPORTANT RELEASES & RESTOCKS

BEACH HOUSE – Depression Cherry LP (Sub Pop)

LEON BRIDGES – Gold-Diggers Sound LP/CD (Columbia) indie only vinyl has an alternate cover

CLAIRO – Sling LP (Republic) indie only color vinyl back in stock!

DAVID CROSBY – For Free CD (BMG)

PJ HARVEY – Woman A Man Walked By LP (Island)

MILEY CYRUS – Plastic Hearts LP (RCA)

LANA DEL REY – Ultraviolence LP (Polydor)

DESCENDENTS – 9th & Walnut LP (Epitaph) these shipped late but they should be in Wicker Park on Saturday

GOBLIN – Suspiria (soundtrack) LP (AMS) crystal vinyl

GOBLIN – Zombi (soundtrack) LP (AMS) crystal vinyl

PAUL MCCARTNEY – McCartney III Imagined LP/CD/CASSETTE (Capitol) limited indie only color or black vinyl

MUDHONEY – Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge LP/CD (Sub Pop) deluxe reissue

TAYLOR SWIFT – Folklore LP (Republic)

7/16/21 NEW RELEASES & SOME IMPORTANT RESTOCKS

BACAO RHYTHM & STEEL BAND – Expansions LP/CD (Big Crown) limited color or black vinyl

The fantastic steel pan group from Hamburg returns with another album of solid covers. This time they tackle JAY-Z, Grace Jones, SLUM VILLAGE, Minnie Ripperton & more. RECOMMENDED!

BONNIE ‘PRINCE’ BILLY & MATT SWEENY – Superwolves LP (Drag City)

Will Oldham & Matt Sweeney revisit their duo project in 2021 with “Superwolves.” Matt Sweeney displays his impressive guitar prowess with nods at classic rock, Saharan guitar & efficient fingerstyle playing while Oldham provides the lyrics & vocals. Despite a few upbeat tunes, the album has a mostly dark & somber vibe with mostly just guitar & vocals. RECOMMENDED.

ALICE COLTRANE – Kirtan: Turiya Sings LP/CD (Impulse!)

2021 is the 60th anniversary of Impulse Records & this release is the first ever vinyl issue of Alice Coltrane’s 1982 cassette “Turiya Sings” but with an altered mix. Alice Coltrane’s devotional cassettes recorded & released through her ashram have developed a cult following specifically in the last decade. The original version has overdubbed strings & synths giving the songs & almost otherworldly feel, almost predicting the sounds of 90s/00s trip-hop & ambient music. Though a proper reissue of that version would be appreciated (come on Impulse!) this stripped-down version of the original recording of Alice singing with simple Wurlitzer accompaniment does have a special, very mellow quality. We’re not going to complain, any unheard Alice Coltrane music is welcome in our shops. RECOMMENDED!

DAMIANA – Vines LP (Hausu Mountain)

The duo of Whitney Johnson (aka MATCHESS) and Natalie Chami (aka TALSOUNDS) forms DAMIANA, and prior to this debut release they’d joined together on stage at spots like The Hideout & Sub-T, weaving their unique voices together over ambient electronics and lite percussion. This collaborative effort is absolutely stunning, and recalls the swirling sound design of GROUPER with the gentle pathos of mid/late-80s ENYA, while capturing their quiet intensity recreated on stage. RECOMMENDED!

JODI – Blue Heron LP/CD/TAPE (Sooper) 

JODI is the new project of Nick Levine of PINEGROVE. This is a more mellow & folky approach to the melodic post-Emo that PINEGROVE is known for. Fans of PINEGROVE, AMERICAN FOOTBALL/OWEN, DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE etc…will dig. 

HOLLIE KENNIFF – The Quiet Drift LP (Western Vinyl)

Along with her husband, Hollie Kenniff is a member of the band MINT JULEP & “The Quiet Drift” is her 2021 album. Swirling synths, deep sub bass & layered vocals make us think of Badalamenti’s TWIN PEAKS score, Juliana Barwick & even ENYA plus that cover photo! RECOMMENDED.

LUGGAGE – Happiness LP (Husky Pants)

The Chicago trio LUGGAGE are back with a new album in 2012 called “Happiness.” Post-industrial noise/rock sounds that remind us of Chicago/Touch and Go Records days of yore ala TAR, early SHELLAC etc…Metallic guitars, motorik beats & hush/spoken vocals

on Ryley Walker’s Husky Pants label & RECOMMENDED.

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES & RESTOCKS

BAD BRAINS – Bad Brains cassette (Bad Brains)

KAREN BLACK – Dreaming of You: 1971-76 LP/CD 

CAUTIOUS CLAY – Deadpan Love LP (Cautious Clay)

COCHEMEA – Vol. 2: Baca Sewa LP/CD limited “amethyst” vinyl

FLEETWOOD MAC – Fleetwood Mac Live 2LP/3CD (Warner)

GARY HIGGINS – Red Hash LP/w7” (Drag City) back in print!

J ANN C TRIO – At Tan-Tar-A LP (Modern Harmonic) limited gold vinyl

CURTIS MAYFIELD – Curtis 2LP (Run Out Groove) expanded edition

CHARLES MINGUS – At Carnegie Hall 3LP (Run Out Groove)

OPETH – Blackwater Park LP (Music for Nations) silver or black/white marble vinyl

A PLACE TO BURY STRANGERS – Hologram CD (Dedstrange) vinyl coming this summer

RADIOHEAD –KID A LP (XL)

RADIOHEAD – OK Computer LP (XL)

SOUTHERN ENERGY ENSEMBLE – Southern Energy LP (Strut) remastered

TINA TURNER – Foreign Affair 2LP (Parlophone) remastered

VAMPIRE WEEKEND – Contra LP (XL)

VAMPIRE WEEKEND – Vampire Weekend LP (XL)

XIU XIU – Dear God, I Hate Myself LP+7” (Kill Rock Stars) remastered

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (soundtrack) LP (Abcko)

KANYE WEST – My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy 3LP (Def Jam)

RSD 2021 DROP 2

***NOTE: Some titles are only in stock at one or two stores. We did our best to mark that as such when we could***

LPS

***Bastille Vs. (Other People’s Heartache, Pt. III) (Capitol) these shipped late and will hopefully arrive on Saturday. Feel free to place a special order on Saturday if you want one***

***Slightly Stoopid – Live At Roberto’s 4LP box set (TRI Studios) these supposedly shipped to us but they’re missing. We might be able to get more so place an order on Saturday if you want to get one***

ADD N TO X – On the Wires of Our Nerves 2LP (Soul Jazz)

Alcatrazz – Born Innocent (Silver Lining Music) WICKER PARK ONLY

The Allman Brothers Band – The Final Note (Allman Brothers Band)

Amigo the Devil – Cover, Demos, Live Versions, B-Sides (Liars Club)

Jon Anderson – Olias of Sunhillow LP (Esoteric) WICKER PARK ONLY

Arizona Amp & Alternator – Arizona Amp & Alternator (Fire)

Fred Armisen – Parade Meeting (ORG)

Beastie Boys – Aglio E Olio (Capitol)

Beat Farmers – Glad ‘N’ Greasy (Blixa Sounds) WICKER PARK ONLY

Matt Bellamy – Cryosleep (Globalist Industries)

Bibio – Vidiconia (Warp)

Boosie Badazz & Mo3 – Badazz MO3 (Badazz Music) WICKER PARK & LOOP ONLY

Born Ruffians – Squeeze (Yep Roc)

Roy Brooks – Understanding 3LP (Reel to Real) WICKER PARK ONLY

Harold Budd – I Know This Much Is True (soundtrack) (All Saints) BELMONT & WICKER PARK ONLY

Bush – Sea of Memories: 10th Anniversary (eOne)

Canned Heat – Living The Blues (LMLR)

Del Casher – Italian Stallion (soundtrack) (ORG) BELMONT & WICKER PARK ONLY

Shaun Cassidy – Wasp (Curb)

The Clash – If Music Could Talk (Legacy) interview LP 

Cro-Mags – Age of Quarrel (Profile)

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – Déjà vu Alternates (Atlantic)

The Cure – Wild Mood Swings (Elektra) picture disc

Czarface – Czar Noir (Silver Age)

Dave Davies – Bug (Green Amp Records)

Don Davis – The Matrix: The Complete Edition (Varese Sarabande) 3LP

Miles Davis – Champions: Rare Miles from the Complete Jack Johnson Sessions (Legacy)

Ani DiFranco – Ani DiFranco: 30th Anniversary Edition (Righteous Babe)

Dinner Party – Dinner Party: Dessert Sounds of Crenshaw (Empire)

Dio – God Hates Heavy Metal (BMG) 12” picture disc BELMONT & WICKER PARK ONLY

Dos – Justamente Tres (Kill Rock Stars)

Dream Syndicate – Out of the Grey (Fire)

Dr. John – The Sun, Moon & Herbs: Deluxe 50th Anniversary Edition (Run Out Groove)

Bob Dylan – Jokerman / I And I Remixes 12″ (Legacy)

Earthgang – Strays with Rabies

Evanescence – The Open Door (Craft Recordings)

Bill Evans – Behind The Dikes – The 1969 Netherlands Recordings (Anagram Music)

Fallujah – The Harvest Wombs (Unique Leader) BELMONT & WICKER PARK ONLY

Fear – The Record (Run Out Groove) w/ 7”

John Fogerty – Blue Ridge Rangers EP (BMG)

Foo Fighters – Hail Satin (RCA)

Aretha Franklin – Oh Me Oh My: Aretha Live in Philly 1972 (Atlantic)

Ruthann Friedman – Hurried Life: Lost Recordings, 1965-1971 (Tompkins Square)

From First To Last – Dear Diary, My Teen Angst Has A Body Count (Epitaph)

Fun Lovin’ Criminals – Scooby Snacks (25th Anniversary Edition) (Chrysalis Records)

Future – EVOL: 5th Anniversary (Legacy)

Rory Gallagher – Cleveland Calling Pt. 2 (Ume)

Bobbie Gentry – The Windows of the World (Capitol)

God Forbid – Determination (Century Media) wicker park? BELMONT & WICKER PARK ONLY

Gorillaz – G Collection 6LP box set (Warner) very limited

Green Jelly – 333 (Say-10)

Gun Club – The Birth The Death The Ghost (Blixa Sounds)

Sammy Hagar & The Circle – Heavy Metal (Live) (BMG) picture disc WICKER PARK ONLY

Hall & Oates – Voices (LMLR)

Roy Hargrove/Mulgrew Miller – In Harmony (Resonance Records)

Hawkwind – Greasy Truckers Party( Parlophone)

Mayer Hawthorne – Impressions (Stones Throw)

Heartbreakers – L.A.M.F.: The Found ‘77 Masters (Jungle)

(Hed) P.E. – Best of Suburban Noize Years (Regime Music Group ) WICKER PARK ONLY

James Horner – Aliens (soundtrack 35th Anniversary Edition) (Varese Sarabande)

Hot Tuna – America’s Choice (Friday Music)

The Infamous Stringdusters Undercover Americana Vibes LP – Limited To 1200

jxdn – Angels & Demons/Driver’s License (Elektra)

Just Ice – Back To The Old School: 35th Anniversary Edition (Get On Down)

K.Flay – Don’t Judge A Song By Its Cover (BMG)

Willie Jones – Right Now (Empire) wicker park?

Jorma Kaukonen & John Hurlbut – The River Flows Vol. 2 (Culture Factory)

Keane – Dirt EP (Island)

King’s X – Manic Moonlight (Svart) wicker park?

King’s X – Tape Head (Svart) wicker park?

Rahsaan Roland Kirk – Live at Ronnie Scott’s, London 1963 (Gearbox)

Kling Klang – The Esthetik of Destruction (Tenement) WICKER PARK ONLY

KMD – Mr. Hood: 30th Anniversary Edition (Get On Down)

Lamb Of God – As The Palaces Burn (Craft) LOOP AND WICKER PARK ONLY

Peggy Lee – World Broadcast Recordings 1955, Vol. 1 (ORG)

The Lillingtons – The Backchannel Broadcast: 20th Anniversary Edition (Red Scare Industries)

Charles Lloyd – Manhattan Stories (Resonance Records)

M.T.B. (Mehldau/Turner/Bernstein) – Consenting Adults (Anagram Music)

April March – In Cinerama (Une Vie)

Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush – Real Live! Vol. 2 (Justin Time) WICKER PARK ONLY

John Martyn – The Church With One Bell (Craft)

The Monkees – Missing Links (Friday Music)

The Monkees – Missing Links Volume 2 Friday Music)

The Monkees – Missing Links Volume 3 Friday Music)

R. Stevie Moore – On Earth (Earth Libraries)

Ennio Morricone – The Blue-Eyed Bandit (Il bandito dagli occhi azzurri) soundtrack (CAM Suga)

Randy Newman – Roll With The Punches: The Studio Albums 8LP box set (Nonesuch) WICKER PARK ONLY

Sinead O’Connor – Live in Rotterdam 1990 (Chrysalis)

PARTYNEXTDOOR – PARTYNEXTDOOR 6LP box set (OVO) wicker park? WICKER PARK ONLY

Johnny Paycheck – Uncovered: The First Recordings (Lightning Rod) WICKER PARK ONLY

Don Peake – The People Under The Stairs soundtrack (Terror Vision)

Pearl Jam – Alive 12” (Legacy)

Ann Peebles – This Is Ann Peebles (Fat Possum)

Pink Freud – Piano Forte Brutto Netto (Deluxe) (Mystic Production) wicker park?

John Prine – Stay Independent: The Oh Boy Years (Oh Boy)

John Prine – Live At The Other End, December 1975 4LP box set (Atlantic)

Richard Pryor – Richard Pryor (Omnivore) picture disc wicker park? WICKER PARK ONLY

PVRIS – Use Me DLX (Warner)

Suzi Quatro – Live and Kickin’ (Chrysalis)

Queen + Adam Lambert, Freddie Mercury – Live Around the World EP (Hollywood)

Radiophonic Workshop – Possum (Soundtrack) Room 13 WICKER PARK ONLY

Ramones – Triple J Live at the Wireless (Rhino)

Lou Reed – Set The Twilight Reeling (Sire)

Steve Reid Ensemble w/ Kieran Hebden – Spirit Walk (Soul Jazz)

The Rolling Stones – Hot Rocks (50th Anniversary Edition) (Abkco)

Saigon – Greatest Story Never Told (Suburban Noize)

Michael Schenker Group – Live in Manchester Apollo 1980 (Chrysalis)

Six By Seven – The Way I Feel Today 2LP (SNSM)

The Selecter – Live in Coventry 1979 (Chrysalis)

Sisters Of Mercy – BBC Sessions (Warner)

Skeletal Family – The Singles Plus (1983-85) (Graveface)

Smoke DZA & Harry Fraud – Rugby Thompson (Nature Sounds)

Soen – The Undiscovered Lotus (Silver Lining) WICKER PARK ONLY

St. Paul & The Broken Bones – Half The City Live (St Paul & The Broken Bones)

Candi Staton – Trouble, Heartaches And Sadness: The Lost Fame Sessions Masters ($tateside)

Cat Stevens/Yusuf – Songs From Harold & Maude (A&M)

Lindsey Stirling – Lose You Now (BMG)

Donna Summer – Bad Girls (LMLR)

The Sweet – Platinum Rare (Prudential)

Swollen Members – Ten Years of Turmoil Greatest Hits (Suburban Noize)

Tad – Inhaler (Real Gone)

T.A.T.U. – 200KM/H In the Wrong Lane w/ poster (Island)

Television Personalities – Another Kind of Trip: Live 1985-1993 (Fire)

Thai Elephant Orchestra – Thai Elephant Orchestra (Northern Spy)

Toby Redd – In The Light (Prudential Records)

TV Smith & Richard Strange – 1978 (Molecular Scream)

Ultravox – Vienna: Steven Wilson Remix (Chrysalis)

Various Artists – A Tribute to Curtis Mayfield (Warner)

Various Artists – Behind The Dykes 2: More Beat, Blues And Psychedelic Nuggets From The Lowlands 1966-1971 (Music On Vinyl)

Various Artists – Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (soundtrack) (Hollywood)

Various Artists – Get It! (Tuff City) wicker park?

Various Artists – May The Circle Remain Unbroken: A Tribute To Roky Erickson (Light In the Attic)

Various Artists – Mochilla Presents Timeless: Suite For Ma Dukes (Mochilla)

Various Artists – Ocean’s Eleven (soundtrack) (Real Gone)

Various Artists – Songs For You, Vol. 2 (Record Store Day)

Various Artists – Willie Nelson American Outlaw (Live At Bridgestone Arena / 2019) (Blackbird)

Various Artists – Kiss My Ass Goodbye: John Prine tribute (Devil’s Tower)

Various Artists – Songs from The Astral Plane, Vol. 1: A Tribute to Jonathan Richman & The Modern Lovers (Crooked Beat)

Various Artists – Studio One Soul (Soul Jazz)

Vitamin String Quartet Vitamin String Quartet Performs My Chemical Romance (Vitamin Records)

War – The Vinyl: 1971-1975 5LP box set (Rhino) wicker park? LOOP AND WICKER PARK ONLY

The Waterboys – How Long Will I Love You (2021 Remix) ( Chrysalis) **these shipped late but should hopefully arrive on Saturday

Wax Poetic – Wax Poetic (Nublu)

Barney Wilen – La Note Bleue Anagram Music LP boxset w/ comic/book (Elemental)

Amy Winehouse – Remixes 2LP (Republic)

7”S/CDSTAPES

ANTHRAX RSD3 Crosley Mini Turntable WICKER PARK ONLY

Jehnny Beth – BBC Session 7” (Virgin)

Born Ruffians – Squeeze CD( Yep Roc) WICKER PARK ONLY

Denzel Curry & Robert Glasper 7” – Live From Leimert Park (Loma Vista)

The Dirty Knobs – Humdinger/Feelin High 7”  (BMG) BELMONT & WICKER PARK ONLY

Fleet Foxes – Can I Believe You 7” (Anti-)

Karen O & Willie Nelson – Under Pressure 7” (BMG)

Johnny O’Donnell featuring Van Dyke Parks – Cats 7” (ORG Music)

Pearl Jam – Alive Cassette (Legacy)

John Prine – Live At The Other End, December 1975 2CD (Atlantic)

St. Vincent – Piggy/Sad But True 7” (Loma Vista)

Ultravox -Vienna (Steven Wilson Remix) 2CD (Chrysalis) 

‘Weird Al’ Yankovic – Beat on the Brat 3″ record lOOP AND WICKER PARK ONLY

Various Artists – Funk 70 5 x 7″ box set (Soul Jazz)

Various Artists – Studio One Ska Fire! 5 x 7″ box set (Soul Jazz)

7/9/21 NEW RELEASES & SOME IMPORTANT RESTOCK

ARTHHUR – Occult Fractures CD (Back To The Light)

Chicago polymaths ARTHHUR follow up their superb 2018 LP “Lost in the Walled City” with an even grander and more ambitious project by expanding on the wild, furious disco-punk of its predecessor by drawing influences from lean motorik krautrock, lush Philly soul and the caged, darkened post-punk reverberations of early 80s Martin Hannett production at Factory Records, while maintaining their liberatory political edge in a world that’s increasingly hostile to liberation. For fans of GOLDEN TEACHER, FACTORY FLOOR and GRAMME, This one is an absolute heater! RECOMMENDED.

BLONDE REDHEAD – Blonde Redhead LP (Numero Group) limited color or black vinyl

BLONDE REDHEAD – La Mia Vita Violenta LP (Numero Group) limited color or black vinyl

First ever stand alone reissues of the classic mid 90s albums from BLONDE REDHEAD. These versions were included in the now out of print box set on Numero & we’re very thankful that they’ve made the proper albums available again. These records sound incredibly fresh today with obvious nods to noise Gods (& Goddess) SONIC YOUTH (the albums were originally released on Steve Shelley’s Smells Like Records) but with their own unique take on alternate tuning art rock. AS GOOD AS THEY GET! 

GOON SAX – Mirror II LP/CD (Matador)

THE GOON SAX is a trio out of Brisbane, Australia, making jangly indie-pop with a post-punk edge, almost seemingly plucked straight out of early 2000s NYC if not for their Aussie twang – which gives “Mirror II” a bit of a Flying Nun sound – and is centered around the trio vocals of drummer Riley Jones, guitarist Louis  Forster and bassist James Harrison. This is a strong,  kinda throwback indie rock record that straddles the line between casual shambles and lock-tight grooves.

KORELESS – Agor LP (Young Turks)

The Welsh producer Lewis Roberts has been making music for over a decade but this is his first full-length album. Excellent production techniques, textures & great sounds with a lot of shifts in styles throughout the album. This should appeal to fans of everything from AUTECHRE, Johann Johannsson, M83, SIGUR ROS etc…

LES FILLES DE ILLIGHADAD – At Pioneer Works LP/CD (Sahel Sounds) limited color or black vinyl

The brilliant group from Niger LES FILLES DE ILLIGHADAD (daughters of Illighadad) return with “At Pioneer Works.” Their rhythmic & entrancing songs are a mix of desert guitar & tende, a term that refers to the style of traditional music featuring women chanting & singing & also the percussive instrument used to keep the beat which is a converted mortar & pestle. This was recorded live in New York in 2019 pre-pandemic & there’s a joy & excitement to the recordings that we’re so happy was captured. Fans of Saharan guitar music like Mdou Moctar, TINARIWEN etc…will love this. RECOMMENDED.

THE WALLFLOWERS – Exit Wounds LP/CD (New West) limited purple vinyl

JAKOB DYLAN & co. return for their first album since 2012’s “Glad All Over”, channelling roots-rock in the TOM PETTY and BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN vein with a solid, upbeat rhythmic foundation and rich-but-not- stuffy arrangements. This is a strong entry in this project’s discography!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES & RESTOCKS

CLIPPING – Wriggle (Expanded) LP (Sub Pop) first press Loser Edition

DAFT PUNK – Random Access Memories LP (Columbia)

DEATH – Human LP (Relapse) splatter color vinyl

DEATH – Individual Thought Patterns LP (Relapse) splatter color vinyl

DEATH – Scream Bloody Gore LP (Relapse) splatter color vinyl

DEATH – Sound of Perseverance LP (Relapse) splatter color vinyl

HIGH ON FIRE – Blessed Black Wings LP (Relapse) color vinyl

HIGH ON FIRE – Death is This Communion LP (Relapse) color vinyl

JUSTICE – Cross LP (Ed Banger)

KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD – Teenage Gizzard LP split color vinyl

MICA LEVI – Blue Alibi LP (Mica Levi)

MICA LEVI – Ruff Dog LP (Mica Levi)

JENNY LEWIS WITH THE WATSON TWINS – Rabbit Fur Coat LP (Loves Way) 15th anniversary reissue

DAMON LOCKS & BLACK MONUMENT ENSEMBLE – NOW CD (International Anthem) vinyl scheduled for later this summer

LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA – In the Heights (soundtrack) LP (Atlantic)

THE MONKEES – The Monkees LP (Run Out Groove) 2LP deluxe edition

MUSE – Origin of Symmetry: XX anniversary remiXX LP (Warner)

PACKS – Take the Cake LP (Fire Talk) limited blue vinyl

SONIC YOUTH – Smart Bar Chicago 1985 LP (Sonic Youth) limited edition version pressed by the band with newsprint poster sleeve

SPACEHOG – Resident Alien LP (Real Gone) pink vinyl reissue

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Erased Tapes 20⠂⠂— 2LP (Erased Tapes)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Oz Echoes: DIY Cassettes & Archives 1980-1989 LP (Efficient Space)

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Trojan Story 3LP (Trojan)

WHITE STRIPES – Seven Nation Army 7” (Third Man) color vinyl limited

LUCINDA WILLIAMS – Lu’s Jukebox Vol. 2: Southern Soul: From Memphis to Muscle Shoals & More LP/CD (Highway 20)

7/2/21 NEW RELEASES

AT THE GATES – The Nightmare of Being LP/CD/2CD (Century Media) limited color or black vinyl

Death metal heroes AT THE GATES are back together & “The Nightmare of Being” is their 2021 album. The album opens with a short acoustic intro & then blasts into a very triumphant melodic guitar passage but don’t let that fool you, these guys are still masters of fast & brutal death metal. Lyrically, the album was supposedly inspired by the contemporary horror writer & Lovecraft disciple Thomas Ligotti. RECOMMENDED.

GOAT – World Music LP (Rocket Recordings) back in print on “sacrificial blood” color vinyl

This debut full-length from the mysterious Swedish collective GOAT is an all-out MONSTER of an album. This collective comes from a remote part of Sweden and are inspired by African tribal voodoo and we believe it. They’re definitely channelling some kind of dark energy. This thing is fuzzed out, droney, “world” and so much more. It’s the perfect synthesis of so many things. This is one of the more unique and special records to come around and we love it. GET THIS!!

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Cold Wave #1 LP/CD (Soul Jazz)

This first volume of Soul Jazz Records’ “COLD WAVE” compilations is a doozy, drawing in DIY artists from around the world (Sweden, Germany, Detroit). Divided by distance, these artists and their music presented here are unified by their sound, drawn from classic post-punk and early electronic artists like SUICIDE, PUBLIC IMAGE LTD., PATRICK COWLEY and the Factory Records production of MARTIN HANNETT. This is both a wonderfully curated collection that flows naturally from start to finish and a great jumping-off point for discovering new music in this realm. RECOMMENDED!

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES AND RESTOCKS

ALASTOR – Onwards & Downwards LP/CD (Riding Easy)

FIONA APPLE – Fetch the Bolt Cutters LP (Epic)

THE BETHS – Warm Blood 12” (Carpark) limited splatter vinyl

CAGE THE ELEPHANT – Cage The Elephant LP (RCA)

CHILDISH GAMBINO – Awaken My Love LP (Glassnote)

CUB SCOUT BOWLING PINS – Clang Clang Ho CD (GBV)

DEAD MEADOW – Live At Roadburn LP (Reverb Appreciation Society)

FRANKIE & THE WITCH FINGERS – Heavy Roller LP (Greenway) color vinyl

GNOD – Easy to Build, Hard to Destroy LP (Rocket) limited blue vinyl

THE GO! TEAM – Get Up Sequence Volume One LP (Memphis Industries)

JOE HISAISHI – Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (soundtrack) LP (Studio Ghibli)

JOE HISAISHI – Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea (image album) LP (Studio Ghibli)

JOE HISAISHI – Tale of the Princess Kaguya (soundtrack) LP (Studio Ghibli)

JOE HISAISHI – The Wind Rises (soundtrack) LP (Studio Ghibli)

KMD – Black Bastards LP (Metal Face)

MF DOOM – Operation Doomsday LP (Metal Face) original or alternative cover versions

NAS – Illmatic XX LP (Sony)

PLUNKY & ONENESS OF JUJU – Make a Change LP (Strut) remastered

PORTAL – Hagbulbia LP (Profound Lore)

BOOKER STARDRUM – Crater LP (NNA)

STROKES – First Impressions of Earth LP (RCA) 

FRANK TURNER – England Keep My Bones LP (Xtra Mile) color vinyl reissue

6/25/21 NEW RELEASES

LUCY DACUS – Home Video LP/CD (Matador) limited clear or black vinyl

This third full-length from songwriter LUCY DACUS is also her best, building upon the lush-yet-rugged folk rock of her previous releases with more concise pop structure, while taking the lyrical content into even more confessional territory, exploring her Christian upbringing and her sexuality, with hallmarks inspired by her BOYGENIUS bandmates PHOEBE BRIDGERS and JULIEN BAKER. Rest assured, fans of her previous work will not be disappointed! On Matador.

DARKTHRONE – Eternal Hails CD (Peaceville) LPs coming in July

“Eternal Hails” is the 19th album by the legendary Norwegian black metal duo DARKTHRONE. We’re not sure how Fenriz & Nocturno Culto manage to still sound fresh so deep in their career but they have done that on this fantastically titled 2021 album. The classic nods are there of course like MOTORHEAD & CELTIC FROST but we’re also hearing hints of SST Records like later Rollins BLACK FLAG & ST. VITUS. These guys never disappoint! RECOMMENDED.

ANGEL BAT DAWID & THA BROTHERHOOD – Live LP/CD (International Anthem)

Fantastic live recording from Germany for ANGEL BAT DAWID, performed in 2019 off the heels of her superb album “The Oracle”. This takes some of that material and more and, with the support of a full backing band, thrusts it into expansive, experimental territories. DAWID’s mantra-like singing sets a template for the band’s improvisation, providing a distinct atmosphere separate from the more structured original. The result travels on similar pathways to early 70s SUN RA and the Int’l Anthem roster as a whole, and mixed with the stage banter and DAWID’s field recordings this album has an immediacy to its moment. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

PJ HARVEY – White Chalk LP/CD (Island) 

PJ HARVEY – White Chalk – Demos LP/CD (Island) 

The PJ Harvey reissue campaign continues with her 2007 dark horse album “White Chalk.” Polly Jean took it upon herself to learn how to play piano & in the process this dark & moody album was born & it’s one of our favorites. Her piano playing is somewhat rudimentary but it works for these songs that have lyrical themes about childhood & her late grandmother. RECOMMENDED.

MIA JOY – Spirit Tamer LP/CD (Fire Talk)

Chicago’s MIA JOY debuts with a soulful, soft-focus collection of music that draws influence disparately from “World of Echo”-era ARTHUR RUSSELL, quiet storm soul in the SADE mold, and ethereal dream pop like COCTEAU TWINS and THIS MORTAL COIL, all while staying thematically centered in the realm of the metaphysical and spiritual. The result is a heady, “nighttime” sort of avant-pop record that absolutely comes RECOMMENDED!

MOUNTAIN GOATS – Dark in Here LP/CD (Merge) limited Peak color vinyl

John Darnielle & co. remain as productive as ever, and this 2021 album comes hot off the heels of “Getting Into Knives”. Both records were recorded at around the same time in early March 2020, but there’s a distinct difference in sound, so whereas “Knives” was both more aggressive and soulful, “Dark in Here” is more dusty and atmospheric. It’s also home to some of the best MG titles to date (personally a fan of “Arguing With the Ghost of Peter Laughner About His Coney Island Baby Review”). Darnielle seems like an unstoppable writing force right now, and believe us we’re happy for it!

SPIRITUALIZED – Pure Phase LP (Fat Possum) glow in the dark or black vinyl

Fat Possum’s SPIRITUALIZED reissues continue on with Jason Pierce’s fantastic second album “Pure Phase.” Originally released in 1995 under the short-lived SPIRITUALIZED ELECTRIC MAINLINE name, the album was a fantastic continuation of Pierce’s attempt to blend psychedelic rock, gospel & 20th century minimalist composition. Also remastered with new green cover art, we’re proud to be able to stock this classic in the racks once again. RECOMMENDED.

FAYE WEBSTER – I Know I’m Funny HaHa LP/CD (Secretly Canadian) limited color or black vinyl

At just 23 the Atlanta based musician Faye Webster is already four albums deep into her career. Webster recently landed a spot on the “coveted” Barack Obama summer playlist & things have gone crazy since. There’s a certain laissez faire vibe to this record that reminds us of Kurt Vile’s breezier moments or Phoebe Bridgers if she let a little country in. 

OTHER IMPORTANT NEW RELEASES

AMENRA – De Doorn LP/CD (Relapse) white or gold vinyl

DANIEL AVERY – Together in Static LP (Phantasy Sound)

BRAINSTORY – Ripe LP (Big Crown)

MATTHEW DEAR – Preacher’s Sigh & Potion: Lost Album LP/CD limited color or black vinyl

EVIDENCE – Unlearning Vol. 1 LP (Rhymesayers)

JOHN GRANT – Boy From Michigan LP (Partisan)

HIATUS KAIYOTE – Mood Valiant LP/CD (Brainfeeder) LP/CD limited color or black vinyl

HYPNOTIC BRASS ENSEMBLE – This is a Mindfulness Drill LP (Jagjaguwar) color vinyl

HISS GOLDEN MESSENGER – Quietly Blowing It LP/CD (Merge) peak vinyl edition

ETTA JAMES – The Montreaux Years LP (BMG) 

JOHN CARROLL KIRBY – Septet LP (Stones Throw)

MAPLE GLIDER – To Enjoy is the Only Thing LP/CD (Partisan) marble vinyl

MODEST MOUSE – Golden Casket CD/TAPE (Epic) regular or deluxe CD or deluxe with t-shirt. Vinyl is August

CARLOS NIÑO & FRIENDS – More Energy Fields, Current LP/CD (International Anthem)

POM POM SQUAD – Death of a Cheerleader LP/CD (City Slang) red vinyl

SONNY ROLLINS – On Impulse! LP (Impulse) acoustic sound series

ROOTS – Do You Want More ???!!?? 3LP (Geffen)

THE RUBINOOS – The CBS Tapes LP (Yep Roc) limited splatter vinyl

NINA SIMONE – The Montreux Years LP (BMG)

SIX ORGANS OF ADMITTANCE – The Veiled Sea LP (Three Lobed)

SLADE – Feel the Noize: The Singlez Box! 10X7” box set (BMG)

SPELLLING – The Turning Wheel LP/CD (Sacred Bones) limited color or black vinyl

VARIOUS ARTISTS – Eccentric Disco LP (Numero Group) limited color or black vinyl

JESSE WARE – What’s Your Pleasure? Platinum Pleasure Edition LP (Universal)