Chrysalis 黑胶唱片和CD

Review: BODEGA's debut album under Chrysalis Records, Our Brand Could Be YR Life, arrives as a culmination of their indie-rock musings on the encroachment of corporate influence into youth culture. Initially conceived eight years ago, guitarist and vocalist Ben Hozie has described it as a project they have long wanted to undertake. With 15 fantastic tracks, the album delves into various indie-rock subgenres, from dance-punk to shoegaze and psychedelic rock. Reflecting on themes of self-critique and cultural commentary, it offers a diverse sonic landscape, with hints of influences like R.E.M. This vital new collection shows BODEGA's musical evolution and retains their keen observations on contemporary societal shifts.

Review: A reissue of a 1999 album by two Malian kora masters, New Ancient Strings is a beautiful collection of acoustic kora duets by Toumani Diabate and Ballake Sissoko - whom are both often popularly regarded (among West African critics and beyond) as the best kora players of their generation. Recorded in a single live take within a marble hallway of Bamako's conference centre on in 1997, the album is a landmark album in cementing the legacy and history of the instrument, with Diabete and Sissoko mutually inspired by the 1970 album of the same name, which was in turn released by each of their parents, Sidiki Diabate and Djelimadi Sissoko; many changes reflecting the meandering landscape of Malian music were made, not least the inclusion of flamenco flourishes and esoteric architectural recording techniques.

Review: Celebrating four decades since its original release, The Selecter's crucial Too Much Pressure receives a well-deserved anniversary edition reissue on clear vinyl. This timeless ska masterpiece continues to resonate with its infectious energy and socially conscious lyrics, upbeat rhythms and Pauline Black's commanding vocals. Together all that creates a potent blend that remains as relevant today as it was upon its debut. This special edition offers fans old and new a chance to (re)discover the album's brilliance, complete with bonus tracks and remastered sound. The Selecter's enduring influence on the ska genre is in part down to this fine album.

Review: More Specials is the second studio album from the Coventry band, originaly released in 1980 and reportedly splitting opinion among their fanbase, although it's come to be seen as a classic containing many of their best loved songs, from ska knees up 'Enjoy Yourself' to the deadpan reggae of 'Do Nothing'. Produced by the band's own keyboardist Jerry Dammers, it had a more eclectic and less obviously punk sound than its Elvis Costello-produced predecessor, with the band's constant disagreements on the direction of the sound proving a creative rather destructive force here, even if it would - barely more than a year later - cause them to eventually split.

Review: The 1985 boxset is a comprehensive collection of The Waterboys' musical endeavors during that year. It features a diverse range of materials, including unreleased tracks, demos, outtakes, and live recordings. The set also includes a remastered version of their acclaimed album This Is The Sea. The boxset offers a glimpse into the band's creative process, with numerous alternate versions, song sketches, and covers. It also showcases the band's eclectic musical influences, ranging from traditional Irish folk to experimental rock. Despite its length, the boxset is a cohesive and engaging listen. The remastered This Is The Sea is a highlight, with Tom Verlaine's guitar playing adding a new dimension to the classic album. Other standout tracks include the previously unreleased instrumental 'Meridian West' and a cover of Bob Dylan's 'Sweetheart Like You.' Overall, the 1985 boxset is a valuable addition to the collection of any Waterboys fan. It provides a comprehensive overview of the band's creative output during a particularly fertile period. The boxset also offers insights into the band's musical influences and their commitment to their craft.