London 黑胶唱片和CD

Review: It's now 25 years since Echo and the Bunnymen reformed (the Liverpool-born band initially disbanded in 1993) and recorded 'Evergreen', their seventh studio album. While reviews were mixed at the time, there's no doubt that it's as jangly, timeless-sounding and sonically gorgeous as any of their more acclaimed albums of the '80s and early '90s. Given that it was released at the height of 'Britpop' (Liam Gallagher provided backing vocals on 'Nothing Lasts Forever', a by-product of Oasis recording in the studio next-door), it's sound is far baggier, looser and warmer than much of the music being made by their younger rivals. On this expanded anniversary edition, the original (if remastered) set is joined by a disc of live recordings, both from their own shows and promotional radio sessions, all of which were laid to tape between 1997 and '99.

Review: Echo & The Bunnymen came back with renewed vigour when they reformed in 1997 and recorded Evergreen. The album was headed up by 'Nothing Lasts Forever', which lodged in the UK's musical psyche as the Britpop wave receded and everyone was craving a little more maturity in their indie bands. 25 years on, the album ranks as of the band's finest, as vital to their story as the classic 80s records, and it's a welcome treat to see it pressed up once again, on fetching white vinyl with a yolky centre, no less.

Review: The Redskins released just one studio album, their well received debut Neither Washington Nor Moscow in 1986. It came on London Records and now for the very first time since the first time, it reappears on vinyl and CD with new sleeve notes by bassist Martin Hewes. The album came just two years after the band formed but already their soulful songs were packed with passion and political undertones as a result of the band all being members of the Socialist Workers Party. Highlights include 'Bring It Down! (This Insane Thing)' which was the band's only Top 40 hit. The band split the same year this was rebased.

Review: As one of the quieter mainstays of the Factory Records phenomenon, The Durutti Column have a cult quality which draws attentive listeners in close. Vini Reilly's distinctive approach to shimmering, repetitive guitar playing was instantly mesmerising from the debut album in 1980 through reams and reams of albums over the years. 1997's Time Was Gigantic When We Were Kids is a firm favourite among the many albums Reilly recorded over the years and now it's receiving its first-ever vinyl pressing with five bonus tracks included, as well as expanded artwork and extensive sleeve notes to take you deeper into the album.

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: London never really came close to matchign Manchester in the baggy stakes, but Flowered Up's album A Life With Brian and its unique fusion of indie rock, dance, and psychedelic influences, is as close as it got. Originally released in 1991 and now reissued on limited orange vinyl, the classic 90s record is a vibrant exploration of youth culture and urban life in London with infectious grooves, catchy hooks, and anthemic choruses all present and correct and ready to deliver a dynamic and energetic listen. The album's title track stands out as a definitive highlight with its distinctive sound and lyrical depth, but really all of these tunes offer a nostalgic journey back to the early 90s and celebrates Flowered Up's enduring legacy.