New releases this week: All genres

Notes: The Yamaha Seqtrak, a pioneering instrument in the realm of music composition and performance, has swiftly become an almost indispensable resource for artists and producers worldwide.

Acknowledging its pivotal role and the strong demand for reliable protection, Decksaver are delighted to present this cover, specially tailored for the Yamaha Seqtrak. This cover is meticulously fashioned from superior materials, offering precision-engineered defence against dust, spills, and unexpected impacts, thus ensuring the longevity of your device and preserving its pristine condition.

This Decksaver cover is custom-made to match the unique shape of the Seqtrak perfectly, ensuring a tight fit that encompasses all critical parts, including buttons, sliders, screens, and ports. Its robust design provides substantial protection while still permitting unobstructed access to all the device's functions and connections.

This feature is vital for seamless integration into your workflow, whether you're in the studio, on stage, or storing the device. This cover serves as a dependable guardian, keeping your Seqtrak ready for any creative endeavour you embark on.

Opting for this Decksaver cover for your Yamaha Seqtrak is more than just choosing protection; it represents a commitment to preserving the instrument's longevity and operational integrity. Held in high regard by musicians and producers, this cover is an essential ally for anyone committed to protecting the integrity and efficiency of their Seqtrak. It enables users to pursue their artistic ambitions with increased confidence and peace of mind, assured that their equipment is thoroughly safeguarded.

Weight: 0.14 kg
Length: 35 cm
Width: 10 cm
Height: 2.9 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

Notes: Enhance the resilience and sophistication of your Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O.II with our tailor-made Decksaver protective cover. Recognising that your K.O.II is more than merely a device, but an integral part of your musical voyage, it warrants the utmost in care and protection. The Decksaver cover is poised to provide precisely that, serving as a formidable protector against external hazards.

This bespoke-engineered cover is designed specifically to match the contours of your EP-133, preserving its stylish, slender profile whilst offering unparalleled protection. Crafted from high-grade polycarbonate, it establishes a strong defence against dust, liquid spills, and unexpected impacts. With this cover, you're free to delve into your musical explorations, devoid of concerns over the common perils that might harm your valued instrument.

The Decksaver cover delivers total protection for every control and feature of your EP-133. Whether you're producing beats in the studio, performing live, or concocting sounds on the go, this cover is your indispensable shield against abrasions, bumps, and contamination. Embrace the liberty of creativity, reassured by the knowledge that your instrument is securely guarded by the Decksaver armour.

Beyond its protective qualities, the Decksaver cover also shines in terms of convenience. Its transparent design allows you to showcase your K.O.II's unique aesthetic while keeping it protected. The cover supports efficient cable management, enabling you to apply or remove it with ease as needed. This obviates the need for frequent setups and disassemblies, offering immediate access to your instrument whenever inspiration strikes.

Transporting your EP-133 becomes effortless with the lightweight and compact Decksaver cover. Its slender profile means it easily slips into your backpack, gig bag, or carrying case, ensuring your instrument remains shielded from knocks, scratches, spills, and impacts during transit. With the Decksaver cover, you can confidently bring your EP-133 K.O.II to any location, secure in the knowledge that it is well-protected wherever you venture.

The Decksaver lid for the EP-133 K.O.II is more than a mere protective accessory; it signifies your dedication to your music. It offers the reassurance that your instrument is consistently safeguarded, allowing you to concentrate on broadening your musical boundaries. Let the Decksaver cover be a companion on your musical journeys, ensuring your K.O.II is always primed for the next auditory adventure.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.16 kg
Length: 18.1 cm
Width: 24.5 cm
Height: 3.3 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Notes: The IK Multimedia UNO Synth PRO X, celebrated for its outstanding sound design capabilities and intuitive interface, is fast becoming a fixture in the collections of discerning musicians and producers. To address the necessity of preserving this innovative instrument, Decksaver have crafted the Decksaver cover for the IK Multimedia device, designed to offer comprehensive protection. Made from premium-grade polycarbonate, following Decksaver's exclusive formula, this cover is specifically engineered to protect against dust, spills, and unforeseen impacts.

Custom-fit for the PRO X, this Decksaver cover snugly envelops the synthesizer, ensuring all knobs, buttons, and inputs are thoroughly protected without obstructing cable connections. The design prioritises usability, facilitating quick and simple application or removal of the cover, a crucial consideration for dynamic musicians and producers. Whether en route to a live performance, situated in a studio, or kept at home, this cover acts as a solid safeguard, preserving the delicate components of your UNO Synth PRO X from the trials of daily use.

Choosing this Decksaver cover for your UNO Synth PRO X is more than a mere practical decision; it signifies a commitment to keeping your instrument in pristine condition. It is an essential asset for anyone intent on protecting their UNO Synth PRO X, ensuring it stays ready and responsive for every creative pursuit.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.195 kg
Length: 33.8 cm
Width: 15.1 cm
Height: 2.9 cm

Fits

UNO Synth Pro X
Uno Synth Pro Desktop

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Notes: The Allen & Heath CQ-18T has become a highly coveted device to protect, owing to its versatile features in managing mixing, recording, live performance, and digital audio workstation (DAW) integration. Its multifunctional nature distinguishes it as a preferred option for audio professionals.

Decksaver's range of professional mixer covers is designed to provide audio engineers with the confidence and peace of mind necessary in any environment.

Specifically conceived and crafted in the UK for the Allen & Heath CQ-18T, this Decksaver cover is manufactured from polycarbonate-a robust and transparent material precisely tailored to the exact specifications, achieving the perfect level of smoked clarity.

Each design is subject to rigorous testing to confirm it meets Decksaver's stringent standards, assuring you of its quality and dependability. The cover efficiently protects faders, buttons, knobs, and indicators from dust, spills, and unintended impacts, whilst preserving the integrity of your cables and settings.

Endorsed by industry experts and utilised by professionals, the Decksaver cover for the CQ-18T is the preferred selection for safeguarding your equipment, ensuring no compromise on functionality or aesthetics.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.194 kg
Length: 32.9 cm
Width: 23.8 cm
Height: 4.9 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Notes: Introducing the Decksaver cover, meticulously crafted for the Allen & Heath CQ-12T mixer. This cover, engineered with exacting precision and made from superior-grade material, offers a bespoke-fit solution that is unrivalled. It provides your CQ-12T with unparalleled defence against common hazards like dust, liquid spills, and accidental knocks or impacts.

Understanding the significance of your mixer as a vital component of your audio setup, this Decksaver cover has been designed to ensure your CQ-12T remains in pristine condition, regardless of the setting. Whether in the studio, at a live performance, or during transportation, the cover acts as a reliable shield, preserving the functionality and aesthetics of your mixer.

Its sleek, transparent design not only delivers robust protection but also showcases the sophisticated build of your CQ-12T, integrating flawlessly with its professional appearance. The precise fit ensures that every knob, fader, screen, and input is covered, yet remains easily accessible for quick setups and teardowns. This design principle means that you don't have to choose between safety and style.

Furthermore, the Decksaver cover for the CQ-12T is lightweight and durable, making it an ideal accessory for DJs on the move. It adds an additional layer of security against the challenges of travel and frequent use, protecting your investment from the wear and tear of the road.

With this Decksaver cover, you acquire not just a protective measure, but a declaration of professionalism. It reflects your dedication to quality and the importance you place on keeping your equipment in its best condition. Embrace the peace of mind and confidence that comes with knowing your Allen & Heath CQ-12T is well-protected, allowing you to concentrate on what you do best; creating and performing music.

Weight: 0.151 kg
Length: 27.4 cm
Width: 23.7 cm
Height: 4 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

Warning: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Notes: The Korg Drumlogue, renowned for its hybrid drum synthesis and powerful sequencing capabilities, has become an essential tool for percussion aficionados and electronic musicians. In recognition of its enduring popularity, Decksaver are delighted to introduce the cover for the Drumlogue, providing crucial protection for this dynamic instrument. Fashioned from sturdy polycarbonate, this cover is meticulously designed to shield against dust, liquid spills, and accidental knocks.

Precisely tailored to fit the Korg Drumlogue, this Decksaver lid matches the instrument's layout exactly, ensuring that every knob, pad, and connection point is safeguarded while still allowing unimpeded access to cables. The design is focused on ease of use, facilitating swift and effortless application or removal of the cover, an essential aspect for busy musicians and producers. Whether you're taking the Drumlogue to a performance, using it in the studio, or keeping it protected in your home setup, this cover serves as a reliable guard, maintaining the instrument's operational integrity and visual appeal.

Opting for this Decksaver cover for your Drumlogue signifies more than a practical measure; it's a pledge to the sustained care and preservation of your instrument. It represents an invaluable investment for anyone keen to ensure their Drumlogue stays in prime condition, ready for any rhythmic adventure or creative endeavour.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.23 kg
Length: 33.2 cm
Width: 20 cm
Height: 3.4 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Notes: The PreSonus FaderPort, known for its streamlined workflow enhancement and precision control in music production, has rapidly become a must-have for producers and sound engineers. Due to its growing popularity and users' demand for reliable protection, Decksaver are thrilled to introduce the cover for the PreSonus FaderPort. This cover is crafted from robust polycarbonate, a material renowned for its strength and resilience, designed to shield your FaderPort from dust, liquid spills, and accidental impacts.

Precisely engineered to complement the PreSonus FaderPort, this Decksaver cover provides a perfect fit, encasing every button, fader, and knob, while allowing easy access to connections. This design is intentional, catering to the needs of professionals who value both protection and efficiency. Whether in a busy studio setting, a home recording environment, or on the move, this cover ensures that your FaderPort remains safeguarded, maintaining its functionality and sleek appearance.

Opting for this Decksaver cover for your PreSonus FaderPort is more than a practical choice; it signifies a commitment to preserving the integrity and longevity of your valuable equipment. Highly requested by the Decksaver community, this cover is a testament to the FaderPort's importance in modern music production, offering peace of mind that your device is protected and ready for any creative challenge.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.135 kg
Length: 14.7 cm
Width: 24 cm
Height: 3.7 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Review: Lol Hammond is a former member of Spiral Tribe and early live techno act The Drum Club who now makes music on his own as Wah Wah Planet. Back in 1990 is when he penned this fantastic five track Balearic house EP alongside Russell Crone and with female vocal contributions from Lucy Sian. It very much lay out an early blueprint for UK street soul and the opener on the A-side 'Jewel' explores a romantic theme with hooky pop lyrics. Things get more left of centre on the 'Love FXU' with three trips into a smoother sound world perfect for sun kissed island dancing and with influences ranging from early breakbeat and trip hop to elements of dancehall music.

Review: Offering five tracks of captivating Italian techno and trance, JP Energy's Strano EP, resurfaces with a timeless allure, Originating from 1993 Italy, Side-1 opens with 'Down To The Moon,' exuding early 90s trance and techno vibes, hinting at the emergence of intelligent techno that later evolved into IDM. With celestial undertones, it sets a hypnotic tone. Following is 'Dolphin Dance,' blending techno with shades of darker 80s Italo house, crafting a compelling sonic journey. Flipping to Side 2, 'Alvorada' unfolds as a smooth, ambient techno gem, showcasing melodic intricacies that enchant the listener. The EP concludes with the E-Talking remix of 'Alvorada,' displaying a fresh and updated interpretation of the original. This remix maintains the track's smoothness while injecting
a contemporary flair. Overall, Strano EP is a great example at a timeless sound that is being enjoyed today.

Review: The blistering, one-of-a-kind West Coast disco-funk record 'U Need Me' by LA Propinquity surfaces as part of a new body of historic productions initially intended for compilation on a full-length LP. For reasons undisclosed, this never happened; instead, Italian sonic exhumers Cannonball Records have been afforded the privilege of reissuing these tracks across a series of 7"s themselves. Hardly and criminially under-recognised in their day, the L.A. Propinquity were nonetheless composed of the angelic city's finest, with drummer James Gadson forming a prominent part. A blast from the 1970s, 'U Need Me' is a beaming slice of unrequited longing, set to delicious funk tones that are as maximized as they are unstrained.

Review: Vintage Pleasure Boutique is an excellently named label out of Poland that is fast approaching its 20th releases. This latest 12" is another dazzling Italo disco gem that arrives on translucent yellow vinyl. Claudia T.'s 'Fatal Destination' arrived originally back in 1989 at the height of the genre's popularity and very much takes you back there with its cold but compelling synth sounds and crashing drums, all very reminiscent of the era. The soaring vocals brings the glorious hook next to zippy lead synths. This was a bit hit back in the day and is sure to win over just as many global dancers second time around.

Review: Roberto Zanetti was also known as Savage and was a producer who was beloved among Italo disco enthusiasts. His work in the 80s helped to define the genre and this is one of the tracks he turned out that had a particular resonance. The outstanding production from 1987 is as likely to captivate dancefloors across Europe now as it was back then. It became a secret weapon for many DJs the first time around and here makes a special return with a reissue that features a bonus remix by Alex "A" and Patrick Delay, which was originally released in 1988 in Hong Kong.

Review: Jinje is a solo project from Lee Malcolm, a founding member of the Leeds-based experimental band Vessels. His music in solo mode is just as singer and hard to categorise as with his band and here on Mesh he veers between electronic, synthetic and organic sound worlds with driving breakbeats topped with gorgeous string sounds, hype-real synths and a shimmering sense of sonic futurism that is awash with melody. These are hugely detailed tracks but the overall picture is never confused as his arrangements ebb and flow with great clarity and make both a physical and emotional impact.

Review: Matthew Halsall initially crafted Bright Sparkling Light as an exclusive for his 2023 EU and UK tour. He then decided to put it out on vinyl and has now put together this special Japanese Edition which features its three exquisite suites, each averaging seven to ten minutes. Halsall's affinity for hypnotic drones, tenor sax progressions intertwined with lush flute loops and evocative depictions of Newborough Forest shine through here on an album that beautifully bridges the transition from dewy morning to creeping crepuscule. It's a natural, organic soundtrack from one of jazz finest contemporary talents.

Review: Tokyo-based post/math-rock noodlers Toe have a habit of cleansing the palette of each subsequent full-length they release with a follow up EP. Just like 2005's debut album The Book About My Idle Plot On A Vague Anxiety was followed up with 2006's New Sentimentality EP, the group would return three years on from their stellar 2009 sophomore effort For Long Tomorrow with 2012's The Future Is Now. From the twinkling emo-inflected shoegazing noodles of 'Run For Word' to the more acoustic-driven psych-jazz of 'Ordinary Days', the four cuts purposefully meander and fuse differing elements from the band's arsenal whilst somehow increasing the dense technicality to absurd, near impenetrable levels.

Review: Something of ground-breaking album on its initial release in December 1994, ISDN is one of Future Sound of London's most name-checked sets. It's effectively a re-edited and rearranged collection of live recordings - jammed out tracks that were initially broadcast to the world via ISDN links to clubs and radio stations, which FSOL brilliantly moulded into a mind-mangling journey through IDM, trip-hop, proto-big beat, dub, ambient, found sounds, field recordings and wayward electronica. To celebrate the album's 30th birthday, it returns as a two-disc set, freshly 'amalgamated and re-sequenced' by FSOL to include material from both previous editions of the album. It is, then, a kind of 'definitive version' of the LP, and one that still sounds as joyously weird, trippy and psychedelic as it did first time around.

Review: In her album The Tortured Poets Department, the seemingly universally adored Taylor Swift masterfully delves into real depths of emotion with plenty of her trademark raw vulnerability. Each track is an exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery, which up to now has always resonated deeply with her fan base. Swift's lyrical prowess shines as she navigates themes of heartbreak and resilience, accompanied by rich melodies that tug at the heartstrings. The album is a fine document of the complexities of human experience that showcasesSwift's evolution as both a songwriter and storyteller. The Tortured Poets Department is another album that solidifies Swift's place as one of music's most compelling voices.

Review: Taylor Swift is a global superstar and pop icon with over 200 million records worldwide and numerous awards, including 13 Grammys. under her belt, Known for her catchy pop songs and her outspoken personality, this is the upcoming 11th studio album by her and will feature 16 new tracks plus one bonus track. The album is said to be a departure from Swift's previous work and will explore darker and more introspective themes. Nevertheless, expect more Swift goodness if you are Swiftie. This edition is pressed on white vinyl with a 24 page booklet included.

Review: Pye Corner Audio is one of the fundamental projects on Ghost Box, as Martin Jenkins indulges his hauntological synth fantasies on an increasingly fertile seam of investigation where drone, wave and death disco can all intersect. Jenkins has never been trapped by retro-fetishism with his analogue sound, and on The Endless Echo he's all the more inspired as he meditates on themes of science fiction and the illusory nature of time. Throbbing, chugging beatdowns sit comfortably alongside spatial, beatless investigations, all sculpted with the masterful touch that comes from considerable experience and a generous assortment of vintage boxes.

Review: For the first time in over 26 years, much-loved metallers Pearl Jam finally topped mainstream rock airplay charts in the US with the first single off their latest album. That came some 1000 days ahead of the album itself which has now finally arrived and has soon won over fans. That single, 'Dark Matter', became Pearl Jam's first No. 1 on the chart since 'Given To Fly' led for six weeks all the way back in January-February 1998. The rest of the album is full of just as much gold as that, with plenty more of their signature riffs and potent grooves all topped with Eddie Vedder's legendary lung-busting vocals.

Review: Blue Note first delivered Horace Silver's Silver Serenade in 1964, adding yet once more to their precious collection of sonorous soul jazz metals. With Blue Mitchell on trumpet, Junior Cook on tenor saxophone, Gene Taylor on bass, and Roy Brooks on drums, the natural scarcity of this serenade is a cultivated one, not spooned; Silver's naturalistic trumpet sounds carpal and easy, dancing brightly against clear, impeccably recorded contrapuntal movements by Brooks and Taylor.

Review: Greg Foat and Sokratis Votskos come together for a superb jazz-infused Mediterranean musical trip on Live At Villa Maximus Mykonos that was recorded in a picturesque setting. It captures the essence of a sun-kissed Greek island with its breezy rhythms and soulful improvisations as Foat's masterful piano and Votskos' evocative saxophone intertwine seamlessly to transport you to plenty of tranquil seaside vistas. The duo's synergy is palpable and evokes a sense of serenity and joy with each note from enchanting melodies to vibrant improvisations. This gorgeous album really celebrates the beauty of music to take you to another place.

Review: Formed in the post-punk era of Manchester in 1978, The Durutti Column, led by guitarist Vini Reilly, has remained an enigmatic and influential force in the history of post-punk. Their 1989 release, aptly titled Vini Reilly, is a testament to Reilly's eclecticism and sonic experimentation. The album spans a vast musical landscape, encompassing elements of post-punk, rock, acoustic, avant-garde, jazz, classical, folk, pop, and electronica.The album's 35th anniversary reissue box set includes many great additions that allows listeners to appreciate the enduring impact of his artistry, as he continues to inspire and challenge music enthusiasts worldwide. Includes new essay by Durutti Column/Factory Records expert James Nice, liner notes by band member Bruce Mitchell, liner notes from Anthony Wilson, interview extracts with Vini Reilly and restored images and outtake images.

Review: Wah Wah welcome the return of multi-talented Norwegian producer Espen Horne, following a 24 year hiatus. Sometimes, such resurfacings must happen - even after such long periods of time - if only to reaffirm the round-robin integrity of the label. The Anatomy Of Serene Eloquence is thus the logical, LP-form follow-up to 1999's acid jazz single/EP 'Magnetica', which, though released only to furtive acclaim, launched the label's reputation as a pusher of delights. This new one, however, makes for a remarkably different turn in sound, coming as a full-length of ambient, tremolo-ing and glistening jazz-funk verging on hip-hop (though certainly cut from the same cloth as 'Magnetica'). Vocalists and instrumentalists such as Olav Wollo, Faye Houston and Aich are kept firmly in tow, squeezing the icing onto an already spongy, delicious sonic gateau.

Review: The much loved llian crew reverts to its Skee Series here and serves up more magic from Skee Mask aka Munich mainstay Bryan Muller. He has roasted pretty exclusively here and never fails to innovate with each new drop. This one again hits the mark across seven elastic techno cuts that are underpinned by lovely dub weight and propelled by tight, pinging kicks. 'Dachtekker' is lit up with hi-tek soul synths straight from Detroit, 'Double Standard' is deliciously deep and driving with swirling pads smeared around up top and 'Small Stone S700' manages to pair soul-drenched chords full of subtle joy with kinetic drum programming that makes you want to move. Superb.

Review: Speak Like A Child by Herbie Hancock is a groundbreaking album that defies categorization, blending elements of post-bop, modal jazz, and funk into a cohesive and forward-thinking sound only to be slotted into a wide spanning genre like Jazz-Fusion. The title track, 'Speak Like A Child', is a standout composition that highlights Hancock's signature piano playing, characterized by its lyrical melodies and inventive harmonies. The album features intricate arrangements and complex rhythms, with each track offering a unique sonic journey for the listener. Hancock's ability to push the boundaries of traditional jazz while maintaining a deep respect for the genre's roots is clear throughout the album. 'Speak Like A Child' remains a landmark recording in Hancock's discography, cementing his status as one of the most influential figures in modern jazz.

Review: Hot on the heels of Blue Note's 2024 lineup announcement of their esteemed Tone Poet series - which reissues classic jazz albums for a contemporary audience hungry for audiophile quality editions - comes this eagerly-awaited new version of Anthony Williams' Life Time. A five-piece north star of free jazz and debut record by the expansive drummer, the album held a crucial repute throughout Williams' career as the inspirational namesake of his later band with John McLaughlin, the Tony Williams Lifetime Band. This one, however, pre-empts this movement and instead hears contributions from such greats as Richard Davis, Herbie Hancock and Ron Carter, riding high on the wave of divine-genius-by-proxy after already having performed with Miles Davis at the age of 18. Blast back to 1964 with this ideal free jazz intro.

Review: Bobby Hutcherson's iconic Happenings is a mesmerizing jazz opus that even now all these years later still brims with innovation and emotion. Released originally in 1966, the record showcases Hutcherson's mastery of the vibraphone and how he effortlessly weaves intricate melodies with a vibrant rhythmic pulse. Backed by a stellar ensemble including the one and only Herbie Hancock, Hutcherson crafts a sonic landscape that is both sophisticated and accessible. Tracks never fail to captivate with their dynamic interplay and infectious grooves, while reflective pieces are also included to offer moments of introspection. Happenings then is a standout from an unparalleled talent.

Review: Merci Yaya Bongo: Female Animation Groups In Gabon 1982-1989 offers a spellbinding glimpse into Gabon's vibrant music scene of the 1980s. The compilation showcases the talent and creativity of several female groups and presents a diverse range of styles from Afrobeat to funk and disco. Tracks like 'Abaga Mbouga' and 'Yaya Omar Bongo' exude infectious rhythms and soulful melodies and highlight the unique sound of Gabonese music during this era. With its rare and obscure selections, this compilation serves as a valuable homage to the overlooked contributions of female artists in shaping the country's musical heritage.

Review: Brazilian artist Lucas Arruda, is fast becoming a regarded figure in the Latin scene. 'Ominira' is his latest long player that once again, finds a home on the French label Favorite Recordings. An album full of rich sounding musical textures that cross boundaries and bridge many genres such as Latin, soul, house, jazz and pop. The vibrant summer jams 'The Bravest Heart' and 'Novos Planos' are A-side standouts that will surely excite veteran and new listeners alike, who are into World music. '4:28' and 'The Mountain' start the second side with some catchy instrumentals that give off memorable beachy 70s vibes. ' Projecoes' closes the album with one of the most soulful performances of the album. All and all, you have a wonderful sounding jazzy grooved piece that ups the expectation of what a Latin jazz album can be. Cafe Del Mar approved!

Review: Claire Rousay continues her compelling evolution with this stunning new album on Thrill Jockey. sentiment once again finds threads of instrumentation and field recordings interweaving with snatches of poetry, dialogue and of course rousay's heart-rending vocal turns. The lens on this particular record is focused on loneliness, nostalgia, sentimentality, guilt and sex, captured in moments of heartfelt songwriting and passages of experimental, ambient exploration. It's simultaneously challenging and immediately endearing, adding ever more depth to rousay's intriguing profile as she dabbles in pop without ever compromising her experimental instincts.

Review: It All Comes Down to This is the album latest release from Manchester icons A Certain Ratio, and it's a record that is helmed by producer Dan Carey from Speedy Wunderground. Somewhat returning to their origins, the record presents ten concise tracks with a hint of the group's signature electronic flair. Notably, it's the first recording featuring the core trio of Jez Kerr, Martin Moscrop, and Donald Johnson, without any additional collaborators. From their celebrated 1982 album and right up to their dynamic last EP in 2023, this album shows the band's still evolving and still committed to new musical advancements. A testament to their enduring legacy, It All Comes Down to This solidifies A Certain Ratio's place among Manchester's finest.

Review: The Melvins, known for their unapologetically experimental and abrasive sound, continue their legacy of sonic exploration with Tarantula Heart, set for release via Ipecac Recordings. The album, featuring a five-track lineup, including the sprawling 19-minute opener 'Pain Equals Funny, which displays the band's penchant for pushing the boundaries of conventional music. One of the album's defining features is the incorporation of dual drum parts, with longtime Melvins drummer Dale Crover teaming up with Roy for an impressive display of rhythmic complexity. This collaboration adds a new dimension to the Melvins' sound, further solidifying their reputation as pioneers of unconventional music. Recorded, mixed, and co-produced by Toshi Kasai, a longtime collaborator of the band, Tarantula Heart adds to the album's eclectic sonic palette. While The Melvins may never achieve mainstream success due to their avant-garde approach, this album stands by their unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and innovation, making it a must-listen for fans of boundary-pushing music everywhere.

Review: Sizzling-hot hip-hop duo Blue Lab Beats are on everybody's lips now, thanks at least in part to the announcement of their latest full-length album, Blue Eclipse. Heralding an exciting new era for the duo, these 12 songs reveal the depth and breadth of producer NK-OK, and multi-instrumentalist Mr DM's musical ambition. Throwing back to their debut EP 'Blue Skies', which even pre-dates their involvement with record labels, Blue Eclipse signals a circling back to their origins while also embracing the new; the pair's usual jazztronica remit is lent the utmost contemporary spin, with notes of drill, neoclassical, trap and Jersey bounce - all still prevalent styles - peeking through in these latest productions.

Review: Disco Discharge: Classic Disco Deluxe Edition, offers a refreshing take on disco's late 70s and early 80s heyday. Unlike typical compilations, it features both classics and hidden gems, showcasing the genre's diversity. From unlikely DJ favorites like Manhattan Transfer's 'Twilight Zone/Twilight Tone' to well-known hits like Cheryl Lynn's 'Got to Be Real' the collection caters to seasoned disco enthusiasts. Tracks like Change's 'Paradise' sit alongside lesser-known gems like 'It Burns Me Up,' providing a deeper dive into disco's rich history. This double-disc set serves as a reminder of disco's enduring influence and offers a treat for those looking beyond the mainstream hits.

Review: Bill Frisell's Orchestras, a collaboration with composer-arranger Michael Gibbs, showcases the transformative power of jazz when paired with symphonic ensembles. The album combines Frisell's trio with the Brussels Philharmonic and the Umbria Jazz Orchestra, resulting in a dynamic interplay between jazz intimacy and orchestral grandeur. Gibbs' masterful orchestrations, inspired by Gil Evans and cinematic scores, seamlessly enhance the trio's telepathic rapport. Frisell's signature shimmering sound blends effortlessly with strings and brass, creating a rich and expressive tapestry. Notably, the collaboration highlights the deep connection between Frisell and Gibbs, a legendary innovator in jazz arranging. Gibbs' intuitive writing draws out the trio's spontaneity and pushes them into uncharted territory. Frisell and Gibbs' mutual admiration and influence create a palpable energy throughout the album, showcasing the transformative power of collaboration.

Review: Colin Dunkerley, aka the artist Lapsed Pacifist, navigates the world as a sound engineer by day and leaves little time for his own music. He has plenty of accolades for his work from a niche audience for his productions under the alias Negative Neutron but for years wanted to pursue a more dark ambient route. Finally, he has made time to indulge his own music-making endeavours and now presents Hypatia, an album that materialised over an extended period. It features field recordings and audio loops processed through his modular setup and takes inspiration from Marco Polo's imaginary cities and rather mirrors Dunkerley's creative journey as it evokes memories of cold, distant places and the emotions they stir.

Review: You'd be hard-pressed to find a collection of euro house and dance music more chock-full of hits than this. In the vein of the early 90s dance compilations, Music On Vinyl gathers two discs packed with landmark dance records and massively popular crossover tracks like Haddaway's 'What Is Love', 2 Unlimited's sports arena classic No Limit', Snap!'s timeless 'Rhythm Is A Dancer' and the worldwide hit 'Pump Up The Jam' by Technotronic. The great thing about this release is the inclusion of many other lesser known but memorable gems like T-Spoon 'Sex On The Beach' and Twenty 4 Seven's 'Slave To The Music'. A whopping 27 tracks in total to take you back to the days when dance music owned the airwaves and the clubs.

Review: The cult favourite Dark Entries hits 15 in style here and celebrates in the only way it knows how - with more great music. This time it is the legendary synth-punk yahoos Crash Course in Science aka Dale Feliciello, Mallory Yago, and Michael Zodorozny who are in the spotlight. The group formed back in 1979 and set out to make music using toy instruments and kitchen appliances. Their punk-y, aggressive, angular sound soon found a hardcore fan base and gave rise to big tunes like 'Cardboard Lamb' and 'Flying Turns.' In 1981 they recorded Near Marineland, a full-length that never actually saw the light of day but does now and shows the band moving into more diverse and polished territory.

Review: Patrice Rushen's Remind Me: The Classic Elektra Recordings 1978-1984 celebrates the unmatched talent of a jazz and r&b legend whose influence extends far beyond her chart success. Rushen's songs, including hits like 'Forget Me Nots' and 'Haven't You Heard,' have left an indelible mark on popular music, with countless artists sampling her work. Despite facing criticism and lackluster label support, Rushen's crossover into sophisticated urban pop paved the way for future R&B and hip-hop hits. This compilation shows Rushen's talents as a musician and arranger, with her production providing the building blocks for decades of musical innovation. Tracks like 'Givin' It Up Is Givin' Up' and 'Remind Me' highlight Rushen's electrifying performances and innovative sound. Rushen's timeless music remains as relevant and influential as ever, cementing her status as a true icon of musical innovation and creativity.