New Releases - 6/23/23

Hitting The Racks

Here's your weekly rundown of what's hitting the new release racks at Grimey's

New Releases

Ralph Alessi – It’s Always Now LP (ECM)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. Ralph Alessi's fourth appearance as a leader for the ECM label follows a singular album run that's been met with nothing but praise from the New York Times to the Guardian. On his new album, Alessi's unique tone is as limber, piercing, and present as ever, enveloped by a fresh quarter lineup including Florian Weber (piano), B"nz Oester (bass) and Gerry Hemingway (drums), that navigates through the trumpeter's idiosyncratically swinging compositions with a sixth sense.

Alici – Frutas b/w Can’t Keep My Plants Alive 7” (Eraserhood Sound)

Alici is a singer and multi-instrumentalist currently living in New York City, but she wants you to know that her heart, and her ear, are firmly located in her home country of Brazil. She was born and raised in the sprawling metropolis of Bel Horizonte, and safe to say the city's sights, sounds, and essence left a lasting impression on her. Alici has made it her mission to spread bossa nova, the iconic musical language created in Brazil in the 1950s, to a new generation of music fans in America and around the world. Having been raised on the vinyl of Gal Costa, Tim Maia, Evinha and more, she is now creating a sound both timeless and forward thinking. On her debut 7" “Frutas” b/w “Can't Keep My Plants Alive”, which features analog production from Philadelphia's Eraserhood Sound, Alici showcases her unique, soulful, bossa-influenced guitar style. [Limited-edition bubblegum pink vinyl.]

Ativin – Austere LP (Joyful Noise)

Oxblood color vinyl pressing. Eschewing the explosive and aggressive playing that characterizes their earlier work, Austere finds the post-rock guitar duo of Daniel Burton (Early Day Miners) and Chris Carothers (Hunting People, Grizzly Daughter) enlisting Chris Brokaw (Codeine, Come) on drums for a more stripped down and skeletal sound. The result is a work of beauty that will undoubtedly evoke a wide range of emotions in those who hear it.

Cable Ties – All Her Plans CD/LP+MP3 (Merge)

All Her Plans, the third album from Melbourne, Australia's Cable Ties, finds the trio of Jenny McKechnie, Shauna Boyle, and Nick Brown at their punchiest and most assured. The ferocious, kraut-influenced blend of post-punk and garage rock of Merge debut Far Enough remains, but McKechnie's lyrics invite the listener closer than ever before. The urgency and fury that have marked Cable Ties' output thus far is more nuanced on All Her Plans. The unfettered rage of their calls to action endures-tackling subjects like broken mental healthcare systems and the burden of familial care that is largely placed on women-while holding space for gratitude, love, and acceptance. [Indie store exclusive ‘peak’ blue vinyl.]

Kelly Clarkson – Chemistry CD/LP (Atlantic)

Grammy-winning global superstar Kelly Clarkson ushers in her highly anticipated tenth studio album Chemistry with the double singles "Mine" and "Me". The pair of songs perfectly compliment and contrast, showcasing the lyrical complexity featured on the project three years in the making. Soaring vocals and a mounting instrumental find Clarkson lyrically honest-as-ever on "Mine", chanting "go ahead and break my heart, that's fine" before craving karmic retribution. Meanwhile the focus shifts inward on "Me", a triumphant anthem of self-empowerment co-written with Grammy-nominated rising star Gayle. Culminating with the lyric "don't need to need somebody when I've got me," the song's message proves equally intimate and universal. "We decided to release ‘Mine' and ‘Me' at the same time because I didn't want to release just one song to represent an entire album, or relationship," Clarkson says. "There are many stages of grief and loss on this album. Each song is a different stage and emotional state." [Limited-edition coke bottle green vinyl.]

Lloyd Cole – On Pain LP (earMUSIC)

Through both his work being the front man of Lloyd Cole and The Commotions and his solo career, Lloyd Cole established himself as one of the most articulate and acute songwriters of the post-punk era. Undergoing several artistic shifts, from minimalistic to folk-rock-inspired to electronic, Cole's work never compromised the high creative value that he has proven to provide over his distinguished career. Following on from his last album, 2019's critically acclaimed Guesswork, the musical style of On Pain consists mainly of electronic sounds. All songs were written by Lloyd Cole - half of them in collaboration with Neil Clark and Blair Cowan, the original members of The Commotions.

De Leon - De Leon LP (Mana)

Following their 2018 LP, De Leon offers a suite of new material that adds further waypoints to the map of their cryptic soundworld. The dual legacies of Javanese gamelan and minimalist composition remain clear touchstones on this second album, which employs architectures of repetition and microtonality and evokes the musical heritage of the Bay Area whilst folding in the arid landscapes of Tucson, Arizona, where its compositions were conceived in part. Featuring a broad vocabulary of source material, notably Daniel Schmidt's gamelan at Mills College and the spherical gongs on the album's cover, combined with a homespun collection of prepared instruments and faint vapors of synthesis, De Leon crafts a distinct signature sound that evades alignment with conventions of academic composition and contemporary electronica but nods to both as it carves out its unique direction of travel. 

Deathcollector – Death’s Toll 2xLP (Prosthetic)

Deathcollector started as a way of filling time during Covid lockdowns. Guitarist Mick Carey (Zealot Cult/Brigante) and drummer Andy Whale (Bolt Thrower/Darkened) kept busy working on classic and current metal covers with friends, which were shared across social media. After deciding to work on original material, vocalist Kieran Scott (Ashen Crown/Grimorte) and bassist Lee Cummings (Severe Lacerations/Bloodshed) came on board and Deathcollector was born. [Limited-edition red vinyl.]

Martin Frawley – The Wannabe LP (Trouble In Mind)

A personal, cheeky and, at times, self-depreciating collection of songs unpacking the reality of finding his way as an adult without his dad around, and ultimately falling back in love with life, music, and someone new. [Limited-edition baby blue vinyl.]

Geese – 3D Country CD/LP (Partisan/PIAS)

In the summer of 2021, Geese emerged from out of nowhere, sparking a hype cycle unlike anything that had been seen for a young American rock band in recent memory. Suddenly a band that had previously planned to release some music, break up, and go away to college was touring the world. And during this entire process, that very same band everyone was getting to know ceased to exist. On a practical level, Geese are still the group we were introduced to in 2021. But spiritually, Geese have returned as an entirely different prospect. Their new album 3D Country is the sound of a restless, adventurous band redefining themselves. Anyone who has seen Geese live recently might've noticed the band adopted a different vibe onstage - more of a volcanic, unpredictable aesthetic. It turns out that wasn't a flipside to the recordings of Projector but foreshadowing that there was more to the story. Knowing they were now beyond teenage basement experiments and were instead making something for an audience who would hear it, Geese felt emboldened. "Maybe the last record was our teenage angst and 3D Country is our newfound 20-something arrogance," Geese’s Gus Greene quips. [Limited-edition crystal clear vinyl.] 

Girlhouse – The Girlhouse EP LP (Secret Road Music)

Following the enormous radio and playlist success behind lead singles "Loaded Gun", "The Fatalist", and "Knuckle Tattoo", fast-rising bedroom pop artist Girlhouse (aka Lauren Luiz) releases The Girlhouse EP. Taking cues from the likes of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Snail Mail, her debut EP introduces the world to her fresh and euphoric sound, and tells the tales of her time living in L.A. and the relationships she nurtured along the way.

Albert Hammond Jr. – Melodies On Hiatus LP (Red Bull)

Strokes guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. crafted his fifth solo album Melodies On Hiatus in a most experimental style. Albert teamed up with his writing partner, Canadian songwriter, and poet Simon Wilcox (whom he never met during the process) and had lengthy conversations via the telephone; Simon would jot down notes from Albert's stream of consciousness, and draft the lyrics on her typewriter, and drop them into his letterbox. Albert then added the lyrics to the melodies he had already crafted. The songwriting process became a long distant "anonymous love affair of ideas & lyrics." The 19-track collection covers themes of childhood, surviving adolescence, adulthood, vulnerability, fame, relationship with self and others, and is Albert's "deconstructed broken down ego reaction" to 2018's Francis Trouble. [Indie store exclusive orange w/ black splatter vinyl.]

Cory Hanson – Western Cum LP/Cassette (Drag City)

Western Cum (say it three times fast! Nope, doesn't help) departs radically from the acoustic existential of Cory's first two solo releases, torching their haunted dreamscapes by upping its heat to molten levels, six strings at a time. A darkly comic evisceration of the end of the American road; great tunes to modern dance along with, too.

Tim Hecker – No Highs 2xLP (Kranky)

Recently released on CD – now available on vinyl. The latest by Canadian composer Tim Hecker serves as a beacon of unease against the deluge of false positive corporate ambient currently in vogue. Whether taken as warning or promise, No Highs delivers-this is music of austerity and ambiguity, purgatorial and seasick. A jagged anti-relaxant for our medicated age, rough-hewn and undefined. Morse code pulse programming flickers like distress signals while a gathering storm of strings, noise, and low-end looms in the distance. Processed electronics shiver and shudder against pitch-shifting assemblages of crackling voltage, mantric horns (including exquisite modal sax by Colin Stetson), and cathedral keys. Throughout, the pieces both accrue and avoid drama, more attuned to undertow than crescendo.

Coi Leray – COI CD (Republic)

Multiplatinum recording artist Coi Leray releases her highly anticipated sophomore album, COI. The self-titled album consists of 15 eclectic tracks showcasing not only Coi's famous flow, but also her vocals, while touching a multitude of music genres - ranging from rap, rock, pop, reggae and dance. It features the Billboard Top 10 single "Players" along with recent songs "My Body" and "Bops". [An indie store exclusive deluxe CD edition featuring a bonus track is available.]

Walter Martin – The World At Night LP (Family Jukebox)

Walter Martin, lyricist and co-writer from The Walkmen and 2019 winner at Cannes for original music and 2019 Clio award winner for original music, releases the album The World At Night. NPR has said "[Martin's albums] celebrate the best of humanity; love, innocence, joy, empathy and the wonder of existence itself. It's the kind of music that can bring tears to your eyes from marveling at all the beauty in the world."

Militarie Gun – Life Under The Gun CD/LP (Loma Vista)

Los Angeles-based rockers Militarie Gun is a truly uncategorizable band. Led by vocalist Ian Shelton, the band's debut full-length, Life Under The Gun, is forged by a lifetime of experience and effort, offering 12 tracks that manage to blend the unbridled aggression of hardcore with massive hooks and personality to spare. The new collection is introduced by the promising singles "Do It Faster" and "Very High". [Limited-edition translucent blue vinyl.]

Model/Actriz – Dogsbody LP (True Panther Sounds)

Limited transparent blue color vinyl pressing. Dogsbody is the debut album by Brooklyn-based Model/Actriz (Cole Haden, Jack Wetmore, Ruben Radlauer, Aaron Shapiro). Inspired by the repetition of electronic music and propulsive sounds of post-punk, Dogsbody was named 'Best New Music' by Pitchfork - and featured in Rolling Stone, Alt Press, SPIN, Dazed, The Needle Drop, and more.

Jason Mraz – Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride CD (BMG)

Jason Mraz is living in full spiral. It's not full circle, exactly, because he's changed and his experiences have changed, but on his eighth studio album, Mystical Magical Rhythmical Radical Ride, the musician has found himself returning to a familiar junction in space. Throughout the album, there are hints of Mraz's formative releases, including his 2002 debut Waiting For My Rocket To Come and 2005's Mr. A-Z, but it ultimately finds a kinship with 2008's We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things. The new songs, which are unabashedly pop, see Mraz reuniting with numerous collaborators, including L.A. band Raining Jane and producer Martin Terefe, who helmed the 2008 breakout album. The songs grapple with the emotions and experiences that come with being in your midlife, a time that is often ignored by pop songwriters. Its optimistic, inspiring sensibility reflects the musician's overall approach to being in the world. It is, in fact, a full spiral, reflecting the past but becoming something new. [An indie store exclusive blue vinyl pressing is available for special order.]

Nat Myers – Yellow Peril CD/LP (Easy Eye Sound)

A poet with a staggering and true voice, Korean American troubadour Nat Myers' folksy blues and pickin' are authentic, timeless, and enduring. The Kenton County, KY native's delivery harkens to traditional blues giants, but it's his unique blend of modern roots and Americana that continues to make crowds drop their jaws. Recorded live at the 100-year-old-plus home of producer Dan Auerbach, Yellow Peril is haunted with the ghosts of the blues' rich history. [Limited-edition green with black marble vinyl.]

Bobbie Nelson and Amanda Shires – Loving You CD/LP+MP3 (ATO)

Bobbie Nelson's musical career dates to the 1940s. Naturally gifted on the piano, she played in churches, revival tents, concert halls and honky-tonks, eventually joining her brother Willie Nelson's Family Band in the early ‘70s. "Loving You ‘is a reflection on the life and music of Bobbie Nelson," says Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Amanda Shires. Shires' mission in making Loving You is to pay respect to the only woman she saw working in a band and pursuing a career as a sideman. "I first saw Bobbie playing when I was 16 at some festival in Texas where I grew up," she explains. "Much of my path seemed possible because I saw a woman working and making a career of music at a young age, and that woman was Bobbie Nelson." Loving You features songs Nelson and Shires played and treasured their entire lives – a few of Nelson's favorites along with her own elegant solo piano title cut. The album would eventually trace Nelson's musical story – and personal journey. [Limited-edition white vinyl.]

Bobby Oroza & El Michels Affair – Whatcha Know b/w Losing It 7” (Big Crown)

Bobby's 2019 tour ended in New York City, and he had two days off before flying home to Finland. Leon invited him to the Diamond Mine to record some music. Bobby had been talking about wanting to stretch out lyrically and write about more esoteric subject matter, Leon was game. They recorded "Reasons" in one session which put the chemistry between the two on the world stage and sparked the idea of making a full-length album together. More than halfway through the recording process, they have decided to treat us to another two-sider of the new material.

Pardoner – Peace Loving People LP/Cassette (Bar/None)

Pardoner is back with Peace Loving People, their fourth and most ambitious full length to date. It explores decades of indie rock styles; hardcore, post-punk, twee, and shoegaze weave amidst band references and lyrics that can be critical, hilarious, or straight up psychedelic all while sounding distinctly Pardoner.

Portugal. The Man – Chris Black Changed My Life CD/LP (Atlantic)

Portuga.l The Man is back after a brief hiatus with the new record Chris Black Changed My Life, the follow up to their global hit Woodstock. PTM have set a personal standard to "change things up" each time they go into the studio to record a new album. This time they enlisted famed producer Jeff Bhasker (Harry Styles, Kanye West, Beyonce, Mark Ronson) to challenge their process. The result of the collaboration brought a new depth to the music and a record that is in lead singer/songwriter John Gourley's own words "our most complete record that follows a story line from beginning to end". The record delivers on PTM's eclectic-ness, pulling influence from music across the globe. Chris Black Changed My Life is a personal story about the loss of a friend and the struggle that comes with it and ultimately ends with the power and endless influence those people will have on your life. [Available on indie exclusive clear vinyl with alternate cover and another version with a 12”x12” signed print.]

Chris Potter – Got The Keys To The Kingdom: Live At The Village LP (Edition)

Released earlier this year on CD – now available on vinyl. World-renowned saxophonist Chris Potter releases a brand-new recording of music live from the legendary New York venue: the Village Vanguard. Capturing moments from Chris' annual residency (recorded 2022), Got The Keys To The Kingdom: Live At The Village features an all-star band comprising Craig Taborn, Scott Colley and Marcus Gilmore. Reimagined folk tunes (Nozani Na, Olha Maria), powerful spirituals (“Got The Keys To The Kingdom”) and uncommon jazz standards (“Blood Count”, “Klactoveedsedstene”) make the final cut from the multi-night residency. Expect high energy, intensity, technical brilliance, effervescent joy and a snapshot of one of the world's greatest saxophonists in his element.

Tommy Prine – This Far South CD/LP (Thirty Tigers)

Tommy Prine's 2023 debut album, This Far South, is not only a long-awaited introduction but a testimony to Prine's 20's and the loss, love, and growth that has defined them. Co-produced by close friend and kindred musical spirit, Ruston Kelly, and beloved Nashville engineer and producer, Gena Johnson, the album is rich and dynamic from cathartic jams to nostalgic storytelling.

Ryuichi Sakamoto – 12 CD/2xLP (Milan)

12 is an intimate collection of twelve compositions by Ryuichi Sakamoto written and recorded in Tokyo during his fight with cancer throughout 2021-2022. Each numbered title refers to its recording date. About the album, Sakamoto says: "... after I finally "came home" to my new temporary housing after a big operation, I found myself reaching for the synthesizer. I had no intention of composing something; I just wanted to be showered in sound. I'll probably continue to keep this kind of "diary." Sakamoto passed away on March 28, 2023. [Limited-edition clear vinyl.]

Secret Machines – The Moth, The Lizard, And The Secret Machines CD/2xLP (TSM)

Much like a frantic movie about "unfinished business" or "the one that got away," Secret Machines spent the past few years putting the finishing touches on what should have been their fourth LP. Long regarded as a lost album, The Moth, The Lizard And The Secret Machines was put on pause in 2010 and massaged in the aftermath of 2020's return-to-form record Awake In The Brain Chamber. Full of winding ear worms and hummable hooks, from its fearless, thunderstruck opener ("There's No Starting Over") and the Fripp & Eno-esque outro of "Crucifixion Time" and the somber instrumental sequence that is "Last One Out". [A limited-edition translucent white vinyl.]

Spotlights – Alchemy For The Dead 2xLP (Ipecac)

The fourth studio album from the post-rock band.

Superviolet – Infinite Spring LP (Lame-O)

Violet color vinyl pressing. In 2020, Steve Ciolek's long running and much-loved group The Sidekicks called it a day, and he found himself without a band for the first time in much of his adult life. Ciolek had never stopped writing, but now with endless possibilities ahead he found himself creating at a different pace. Infinite Spring is bursting with that sense of discovery and promise without sacrificing the warmth that's always made Ciolek's songwriting feel so timeless and satisfying. The record feels like an amalgam of his many musical interests, woven together into something unique; throughout, sparse folk intersects with soulful indie, and the intricate arrangements and sweeping hooks of '60s and '70s pop rock overlap with the charming looseness of Midwest punk.

Swans – The Beggar 2xCD/2xLP (Young God)

The Beggar was written and produced by Michael Gira and features contributions from recent and former Swans, members of Angels Of Light, as well as Guest Swan Ben Frost. "After numerous pandemic-induced cancellations of tours for the previous Swans album leaving meaning, and an apparent bottomless pit of waiting, waiting, waiting, and the strange disorientation that came with this sudden but interminable forced isolation I decided it was time to write songs for a new Swans album and forget about everything else. They came relatively easily, always informed by the suspicion that these could be my last. When I finally was able to travel, songs in hand, to Berlin to work with my friends recording this record, the feeling was akin to the moment in The Wizard Of Oz when the film changes from Black and White to Color. Now I'm feeling quite optimistic. My favorite color is pink. I hope you enjoy the album." - Michael Gira

Vintage Trouble – Heavy Hymnal CD/LP (Cooking Vinyl Limited)

History has proven that when the world is in flames, it ignites empathetic artists to siren their words, music, and rhythm, to blanket our society's fury and nurse scorched souls. The seemingly endless years of pandemic lockdown and social distancing, coupled with the turbulent plague of civil unrest and racial injustice, called on Vintage Trouble to step into their battle wear. Like so often before, they have spun records to drop onto the fighting grounds, with the intent to freeze the frame long enough to momentarily halt the warring world. And while at ease, we can freely choose to think before we strike or decide to retreat, rather than thoughtlessly charge into repeating history. A collection of heavy hymns, Heavy Hymnal is from the heart, and it provides a necessary rise to our ever reckoning. [Limited-edition indie store exclusive white vinyl.]

M. Ward – Supernatural Thing CD/LP+MP3 (ANTI-)

Singer/songwriter M. Ward returns with the new studio album Supernatural Thing. His songs "luxuriate in a dream world conjured out of memories, shared stories, and flights of fancy," Pitchfork says, and the album's title track also lives in a liminal space in which Elvis comes to him with a message: You Can Go Anywhere You Please. "Well, all my songs depend on dream-imagery to some extent," Ward explained, "and this was an actual dream I had about Elvis, when he came to me and said that. I don't know if it's pandemic-related or not." Summing up the emotional tone of the record, Ward also sings on this track: "you feel the line is growing thin / between beautiful and strange." The album's guest stars – First Aid Kit, Shovels & Rope, Scott McMicken, Neko Case, Jim James, and others – enliven the album with surprises. [Indie store exclusive eco-mix color vinyl.]

The Watson Twins – Holler CD/LP (Bloodshot)

Produced by Butch Walker, Holler is a collection of songs that finds the twins leaning deeper into their Americana and country roots. The album features the same energetic, foot stompin' feel as their 2022 single "Two Timin'". Accompanied by their Nashville based touring band, Holler is a true departure. From the blues inspired "Sissy Said", to the country soul of "Never Be Another You", the sisters showcase their celebrated sibling harmonies and strongest songwriting to date. [Indie store exclusive violet vinyl.] [This title shipped late and will arrive early next week.]

Reissues, Comps, Live Recordings, Vault Excavations...

American Aquarium – Things Change [Reissue/2018] LP (New West)

In the lush tobacco fields of North Carolina where BJ Barham was raised, people work hard. Families stay nearby, toiling and growing together. BJ loves those farms and his tiny Reidsville hometown, but he had to run off and start American Aquarium, a band now beloved by thousands. BJ couldn't stay. But he couldn't really leave, either: he's still singing about the lessons, stories, and lives that define rural America-and him. Recorded at 3CG Records in Tulsa, Oklahoma, American Aquarium's seventh studio album, Things Change was produced by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter John Fulbright and features cameos from Americana standouts including John Moreland and Jamie Lin Wilson. Stacked with BJ's signature storytelling-always deeply personal but also instantly relatable.

The Avett Brothers - Emotionalism 2xLP (Ramseur)

New reissue of this Avett Brothers classic, on seaglass blue vinyl, as part of the RSD Essentials series.

Roger Bekono – Roger Bekono LP/Cassette (Awesome Tapes From Africa)

Roger Bekono made a deep mark in the contemporary history of Cameroonian music through the four-on-the-floor, ribald intensity of bikutsi. The Ewondo-language dance-pop style that forms an undulating tapestry of interlocking triplet rhythmic interplay came to international prominence in the European "world music" scene as the ‘90s began. But the relentless sound of bikutsi developed in Yaoundé at the hands of Bekono and many others, as it developed from a village-based singing style performed mostly by women into a cosmopolitan music force that rivaled the popularity of established musics like Congolese rhumba, merengue, and makossa. With his unique-some say suave-voice, Bekono contributed much over a period of more than 10 years as part of the evolution of this traditional rhythm-turned-urban dance movement.

Gary Burton – New Quartet [Reissue/1973] LP (ECM)

As well as being the great vibes innovator of the era, Gary Burton has been a most astute talent scout. In 1973, The New Quartet introduced Abraham Laboriel: this was the first recording of the bassist who would shortly become one of the most in-demand session players across all genres. Guitarist Mick Goodrick also emerged as a player to watch with this album, shining in a well-conceived program with compositions of Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Carla Bley, Mike Gibbs, and bandleader Burton.

Candlebox – Live At The Neptune LP (Pavement Ent.)

A live acoustic album from multi-platinum rock band Candlebox recorded on November 5, 2021, at the Neptune Theatre in Seattle, Washington.

The Cat & Bells Club. – The Cat & Bells Club. LP (Blank Forms Edition)

Archival release. In 1992, under the guise of the Cat & Bells Club, eighteen-year-old Cheriton residents Graham Lambkin and Darren Harris self-released three tapes-two yellow cassettes and one pink-documenting their earliest musical efforts at S.H.P. studios (Lambkin's bedroom in his parents' house). The lowest of all lo-fi recordings, these tracks were laid down live, directly into a boombox with no overdubs. Relieved of their academic expectations and plunged into the workforce, the duo aspired to enter the annals of rock history, making their own primitive teenage overtures to Marc Bolan, the Incredible String Band, Whitehouse, and the Godz. Lyrically and spiritually the Cat & Bells Club. had much to do with Bolan's early Tyrannosaurus Rex project, but with a hyperlocalized Folkestonian twist that nonetheless maintained his penchant for chevaline.

Cinderella – Night Songs [Reissue/1986] LP (Friday Music)

Limited edition purple/violet vinyl. Night Songs is the debut studio album by glam metal band Cinderella, originally released in 1986. Includes the singles "Shake Me", "Nobody's Fool", and "Somebody Save Me".

Eric Clapton – The Definitive 24 Nights 6xCD+3xBlu-ray (Reprise)
Eric Clapton – 24 Nights: Blues 2xCD+DVD/2xLP (Reprise)
Eric Clapton – 24 Nights: Rock 2xCD+DVD/3xLP (Reprise)
Eric Clapton – 24 Nights: Orchestral 2xCD+DVD/3xLP (Reprise)

In 1990 and 1991, Eric Clapton performed 42 nights at the Royal Albert Hall in London; 18 shows in 1990 and 24 in 1991. During the run of these shows Clapton performed with three different line-ups: a rock band, a blues band, and an orchestra. The huge undertaking of rehearsing for performances of three distinctly different genres and set lists was made more challenging by the rock show line-ups varying from 4, 9 or 13 band members. Guest musicians included Buddy Guy, Albert Collins, Robert Cray, and Phil Collins. The orchestra was conducted by the late Michael Kamen. Many of the performances were filmed and recorded and the huge amount of audio and film material has been painstakingly restored and the quality upgraded. The rock, blues and orchestral shows are now available as stand-alone concerts on LP and CD. The CD formats also come with the film of the show on DVD. Additionally, the limited-edition The Definitive 24 Nights deluxe box sets include 47 songs and almost 6 hours of music on 6 CDs or 8 LPs and 3 Blu-ray’s. 

Cro-Mags – The Age Of Quarrel [Reissue/1986] LP (Astor Place)
Cro-Mags – Best Wishes [Reissue/1989] LP (Astor Place)

Regular black and color vinyl (smoke and clear w/ splatter, respectively) reissues of the New York hardcore band’s first two albums.

Death Cab For Cutie – The Photo Album [Reissue/2001] 2xLP+MP3 (Barsuk)

Deluxe color vinyl reissue. Released in 2000, We Have The Facts And We're Voting Yes delivered on the promise of You Can Play These Songs With Chords and Something About Airplanes. For once, a band's popularity grew commensurate with its maturation. Despite the heightened attention, singer/songwriter/guitarist Ben Gibbard next let loose Death Cab for Cutie's finest moment, "Photobooth," the lead track on the sparkling Forbidden Love EP. New fans worldwide swooned under its beguiling romantic rise 'n' fall and its lingering, bittersweet, wallet-sized artifact. And though it wouldn't have killed them to include "Photobooth" here — for its spotless greatness and thematic likeness — The Photo Album's ten tracks are of the EP's heightened caliber.

Ani DiFranco – Little Plastic Castle [Reissue/1998] 2xLP (Righteous Babe)

25th anniversary edition. To make Little Plastic Castle, Ani returned to one of her favorite places to record in that era-the live-in studio the Congress House in Austin, Texas. Though Ani described it as "the most light-hearted album I've made in a long time," this record covers a wide range of topics - the impermanence of existence ("Fuel"), mutual respect ("Pixie"), forgiveness ("As Is"), drugs ("Two Little Girls") - and emotions. Chosen as one of the "Greatest Albums Made By Women" by NPR in 2017, Little Plastic Castle has proven to have an enduring legacy. [Limited-edition orange vinyl.]

Eiafuawn – Birds In The Ground [Reissue/2006] LP (Numero)

Canary yellow color vinyl pressing. While Duster went into hibernation in the year 2000, Clay Parton's four-track never stopped rolling. Recorded alone at home over several years, Birds In The Ground is an album of 30-something, post-9/11 malaise. Under his Eiafuawn (Everything Is All F***ed Up And What Not) acronym, Parton hides beneath layers of fuzzy and clean guitars, his hesitant, cottony vocal disappear into noise. This deluxe pressing is packaged in a gorgeous tip-on sleeve and includes the complete lyrics for this cryptic entry of the Dusterverse.

Fear Factory – Mechanize [Reissue/2010] CD/2xLP (Nuclear Blast)
Fear Factory – Re-Industrialized CD/2xLP (Nuclear Blast)

Re-Industrialized is a new take on Fear Factory's classic album, The Industrialist, featuring a new master with real drums provided by Mike Heller. Available on regular and silver color vinyl. Fear Factory’s seventh album, Mechanize, has been reissued as an expanded edition and is available on regular and smoke color vinyl. 

T-Model Ford – Live At The Deep Blues 2008 CD/LP (Alive)

Previously unreleased recording of T-Model Ford live at The Deep Blues Festival 2008. The CD version includes one track not available on vinyl. [A limited-edition translucent orange color vinyl pressing is available.]

Heavenly – Le Jardin De Heavenly [Reissue/1992] LP (Skepwax)

Vinyl reissue of Heavenly’s second album includes relevant single releases, a 7” booklet with lyrics, and new sleeve notes by the members of the band. By the time Le Jardin De Heavenly was ready to roll, Heavenly was an established part of the Sarah Records stable in the UK and honorary members of the International Pop Underground in the US, where Le Jardin De Heavenly was released by K Records. The songs on the album are rich with pop melodies and complex harmonies but the band didn’t hold anything back.

Billie Holiday – Songs For Distingue Lovers [Reissue/1958] LP (Verve)

It is undeniable that Billie Holiday's singing changed in her later years. Her voice darkened and shifted to a lower range. Her economy of expression distilled her sound to its essence - a kind of heightened speech. The classic album Songs For Distingue Lovers, her best work of the 1950s, has also deepened and become burnished with time. Part of Verve’s Acoustic Sound Series featuring transfers from analog tapes, remastered, and pressed on 180gm vinyl housed in a gatefold jacket.

Fela Ransome Kuti & The Afrika 70 – Gentleman [Reissue/1973] LP (Knitting Factory Works)

Limited edition smoke color vinyl pressing. The title track, “Gentleman”, has often been hailed as Fela’s masterpiece. The politically scathing song opposes Westernization and those who imitate Western ways. Fela had many Ghanaian friends (and Ghanaian wives and Ghanaian girlfriends) and “Fe Fe Ne Efe” is sung as a tribute to Ghana. “Igbe (Na Shit)” again shows Fela breaking cultural taboos by singing literally and figuratively about ‘shit’. He sings the word in a several Nigerian languages so there is no misunderstanding.

MJ Lenderman – Ghost Of Your Guitar Solo [Reissue/2021] LP (Dear Life)

Mj Lenderman is the project of Asheville native, Jake Lenderman, whose Boat Songs was released to wide acclaim on Dear Life Records in 2022. Now Dear Life is proud to offer a vinyl reissue of MJ's 2021 label debut, Ghost Of Your Guitar Solo, a collection of nine songs recorded and performed entirely by Lenderman, and one live band track.

Little Feat – Sailin’ Shoes [Reissue/1971] 2xCD/3xLP (Rhino)
Little Feat – Dixie Chicken [Reissue/1973] 2xCD/3xLP (Rhino)

Deluxe remastered and expanded editions. Little Feat has indeed led a storied life ever since they formed in 1969. From then on, their unconventional signature of earthy, organic appeal and polished, first-rate musicianship wrapped around eclectic and memorable songs-clearly delivered as an authentic labor of love-has been a lasting fixture on the musical landscape. As American as apple pie-and rock 'n roll itself-Feat's music transcends boundaries, a freewheeling fusion of California rock and Dixie-inflected funk-boogie. In the mix as well are strains of folk, blues, rockabilly, country, and jazz, inventing a hybrid sound that is truly Little Feat's own.

Jennifer Lopez – On The 6 [Reissue/1999] 2xLP (Sony Legacy)

Double vinyl reissue of Jennifer Lopez’s debut studio album. Considered one of the best-selling Latin albums of all time, On The 6 includes the hits "If You Had My Love", "Let's Get Loud", and "Waiting for Tonight".

Charles Mingus – Changes: The Complete 1970s Atlantic Studio Recordings 7xCD/8xLP (Atlantic)

The story of a new phase in Mingus' music - his last phase - begins with the recordings in this boxed set. Featuring all of his 1970's output for Atlantic Records, all configurations of the album include previously unreleased outtakes of "Big Alice", "The Call", and "Music For Todo Modo". There is also an extra set of takes of "Big Alice" and "The Call" on an Outtakes disc exclusive to the vinyl format.

The Monkees – Greatest Hits LP (Rhino)

1976 Greatest Hits compilation, featuring “The Monkees Theme Song”, “Last Train To Clarksville”, “I'm A Believer” and “Daydream Believer”.

Willie Nelson – The Great Divide [Reissue/2002] 2xLP (Lost Highway)

The Great Divide is the 50th studio album released in 2002 by American country music singer Willie Nelson. It contains several duets and musical collaborations with artists such as Rob Thomas of Matchbox Twenty, Lee Ann Womack, Kid Rock, Sheryl Crow, Brian McKnight, and Bonnie Raitt. It is available now for the first time on vinyl.

Old And New Dreams (Don Cherry, Dewey Redman, Charlie Hayden) – Old And New Dreams [Reissue/1979] LP (ECM)

Don Cherry, Dewey Redman, Charlie Haden and Ed Blackwell came together to celebrate the work of mentor Ornette Coleman, but the repertoire of their Old And New Dreams quartet soon blossomed into a project of much wider scope, addressing also the musical experiences the players had made individually in their travels around the world. Recorded in Oslo in August 1979 and produced by Manfred Eicher, this vinyl reissue includes new liner notes providing historical context and background information.

Power Trip – Live In Seattle CD/LP (Southern Lord)

A razor-sharp recording that effectively proves how lethal Power Trip was in a live setting, Live In Seattle was recorded as the title states in Seattle at Neumos on May 28, 2018 and is comprised of a selection of classic tracks from their Nightmare Logic and Manifest Decimation albums. [An indie store exclusive clear vinyl pressing is available.]

Sonny Rollins – Go West!: The Contemporary Records Albums 3xCD/3xLP (Craft Recordings)

Go West!: The Contemporary Records Albums combines legendary jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins' two studio albums for Lester Koenig's Contemporary Records (Way Out West, Sonny Rollins and The Contemporary Leaders) with a third disc, Contemporary Alternate Takes.

Arthur Russell - Picture of Bunny Rabbit CD/LP (Audika Records)

In 1986 Arthur Russell was diagnosed with HIV, that same year he released his career-defining masterpiece World of Echo, the first and only solo album issued during his lifetime. Arthur had found his voice and a fresh direction with a set of new, transformative material, unlike anything he or anyone else had previously released. Arthur's final years were filled with a renewed commitment to creativity and unceasing live and recording work. He regularly performed the World of Echo material and incorporated several of its compositions in collaborations with choreographers active in New York's innovative dance community. Arthur worked closely with Diane Madden, Allison Salzinger, Stephanie Woodard and John Bernd, usually playing his cello and effects boxes off stage as the choreographers' pieces were performed. Picture of Bunny Rabbit features nine previously unreleased performances from this era compiled from completed masters culled from two unique test pressings, including one, dated 9/15/85 by Arthur, provided by his mother and sister. 

The Smiths – Meat Is Murder [Reissue/1985] LP (Rhino)
The Smiths – Strangeways Here We Come [Reissue/1987] LP (Rhino)

Digitally remastered vinyl reissues of The Smiths second and fourth (and final) albums.

Pete Townshend – Rough Mix [Reissue/1977] LP (UMe)
Pete Townshend – Empty Glass [Reissue/1980] LP (UMe)

Rough Mix was released in September 1977 while the Who were on hiatus. It was a collaboration with Small Faces bassist Ronnie Lane and features contributions from Who bassist John Entwistle, Eric Clapton, and Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts. Produced by Chris Thomas, Empty Glass is Townshend's second solo album released in April 1980. The songs largely deal with issues he was struggling with at the time. These reissues have been mastered by Jon Astley and cut at half-speed on 180gm vinyl by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios. Packaged in original sleeves with obi strips and a certificate of authenticity.

Various Artists – Written In Their Soul: The Stax Songwriter Demos 7xCD (Craft Recordings)

Written In Their Soul: The Stax Songwriter Demos brings together 146 demos from the legendary Stax Records. Including 140 previously unreleased recordings, this collection combines both songwriter demos of some of music's biggest songs with full-blown arrangements of never released tracks. Compiled by multi-Grammy Award-winning producer Cheryl Pawelski, this 7xCD set is packaged in a 7"x7" boxset and includes archival photos, and a new essay written by Deanie Parker and Robert Gordon.

Wye Oak – Every Day Like The Last: Collected Singles 2019 – 2023 CD/LP+MP3 (Merge)

The nine songs on Every Day Like The Last, which were recorded in Jenn Wasner and Andy Stack's current home state of North Carolina and Virginia at venues that include Stack's backyard studio, compiles the singles Wye Oak has released since 2019's glowing "Fortune" and includes three new songs. While it wasn't conceived the way an album traditionally is, these songs coalesce because of the way they examine and grapple with ambiguities, which is reflected by the dual meaning of the title and its attendant track, a pensive, suspended-in-midair track that contemplates the importance of human connection. [Indie exclusive natural with black swirl peak vinyl.]

Lyman Woodard Organization – Saturday Night Special [Reissue/1975] 2xLP (BBE)

Possibly the best known of Strata's releases, The Lyman Woodard Organization's Saturday Night Special is rightly heralded as a jazz fusion classic. Recorded in 1975, 'Saturday Night Special' features organ, electric piano and Mellotron by bandleader Lyman Woodard alongside guitar and bass by Ron English, with drums and percussion by Leonard King, Bud Spangler & Lorenzo "Mr. Rhythm" Brown. respectively.

Xasthur – Rehearsals 1997 – 1999 LP (Prophecy)

With the first couple of rehearsals from '97 lost or stolen, there were a few between '97 and '99 that were saved and compiled. By 2013, Scott created a CDR containing those rehearsal tracks - reported as 200 copies having been created, however less than 100 were ever made available. With Scott on guitar and/ or drums, and aided by nameless musicians directed by Scott, the rehearsals were recorded on a cassette Walkman at his home. The outcome of these recordings are very raw, dirty, lo-fi, live demo tracks, mostly instrumentals, with tracks 5 and 6 featuring vocals [by an anonymous helper]. All potential band members were soon dismissed. [Limited-edition red vinyl.]