Back catalogue: All genres

Review: After over four decades out of print, Henry Badowski's 1981 debut Life Is A Grand finally comes reissued by Caroline True Records. Despite cult status, this is a can't unhear record whose privies are never lost on those who love it. Badowski built a quiet reverence for himself over the years, eluding mainstream rediscovery while gathering admiration from those drawn to its peculiar charm. Though he eventually slipped away from music and began a succession of other jobs - fans often wondered how such a gifted musician could just disappear - Badowski was known to have been a teenage bassist in Chelsea briefly linked to The Damned, later stepping away from punk's sharp edges to craft something far more whimsical and idiosyncratic. Drawing on his affection for Roxy Music, Ian Dury and Jethro Tull, he wrote, arranged and played nearly everything on the album himself, rom the baroque pop of 'Swimming With The Fish In The Sea' to the instrumental strut of 'Rampant'. Rich in synth flourish, sardonic lyricism and melodic invention, and now pulled up by the pinky and thus saved from the gorge of obscurity, Life Is A Grand returns with its sly wit and strange beauty completely intact.

Review: The latest compilation on CTR, curated by Jason Boardman of Before I Die Records, dives into the rich, underground landscape of early 1980s post-punk. This collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the era's DIY ethos, featuring rare and never-before-heard tracks that encapsulate the innovative spirit of the time. From the 2-Tone-influenced Skeet in Coventry to the dub experiments of Surface Mutants with Cabaret Voltaire, the album uncovers a trove of hidden gems that have largely flown under the radar. One track even boasts a unique post-punk diss track, adding a touch of rebellion to the mix. Boardman has unearthed a variety of tracks, some even sampled by the likes of DJ Shadow, showcasing the lasting influence of these obscure artists. The compilation highlights a time when independent musicians, studios, and labels banded together, bypassing major labels in pursuit of their creative vision. While it's not a comprehensive guide to the era, this album shines a spotlight on the overlooked and underappreciated, giving these artists the recognition they've long deserved, not to mention the enduring power and creativity of the post-punk underground.

Review: Compiled by Jason Boardman (Before I Die Records), this new release on CTR delves into the rich, untapped world of early 1980s post-punk DIY innovation. Boardman, a celebrated Manchester DJ, club-night founder, and record label owner, curates a collection of obscure and rarely heard tracks from the era. These bedroom and small studio creations capture the spirit of independent music from that time, showcasing the efforts of artists who sidestepped major labels to forge their own paths. The compilation features everything from Coventry's 2-Tone-related Skeet to Surface Mutants' Cabaret Voltaire-inspired dub, highlighting a diverse range of post-punk experimentation. Even tracks sampled by DJ Shadow make an appearance, offering a glimpse into the era's lasting influence. One particularly unique inclusion is a post-punk diss track, adding a playful yet edgy touch to the collection. This album shines a light on the overlooked and forgotten sounds of the period, focusing not on the hits but on the creative energy that defined the era. It's a tribute to the artists' perseverance and a celebration of their contributions to the music landscape. A must for fans of post-punk and DIY culture.