Back catalogue: All genres

Review: The arrival of any album by the mighty Snoop is a major moment in hip-hop history but this feel even bigger than usual. With the more than capable hands of Dr Dre on the production tiller alongside Snoop, there's a real royal roll call of talent lining up to guest, from Eminem, 50 Cent, Method Man, Jelly Roll, BJ the Chicago Kid, Jhene Aiko, Alus, K.A.A.N., Smitty, Dem Jointz, Cocoa Sarai, Stalone, and Fat Money. Rather inexplicably, Tom Petty and Sting feature, making this an unusual and memorable moment even within the illustrious confines of his career to date.

Review: Snoop Dogg's highly anticipated Missionary reunites the iconic duo of Snoop and Dr. Dre, delivering a nostalgic yet forward-looking album. Marking their first full collaboration since Doggystyle in 1993, the project promises the timeless synergy that defined West Coast hip-hop, featuring Dre's signature g-funk production infused with fresh, modern twists. The 15-track album boasts an impressive roster of guest artists, including Jhene Aiko on the lead single 'Gorgeous', Eminem, 50 Cent, Method Man, BJ the Chicago Kid and a posthumous contribution from Tom Petty on a reimagined version of 'Last Dance with Mary Jane' featuring Jelly Roll. Dre himself steps out from behind the boards, appearing as a guest on three tracks. Notable samples from Sly & The Family Stone's 'Thank You' and The Police's 'Message in a Bottle' enhance the album's funk-rich, melodic soundscapes. Missionary reaffirms Snoop and Dre's legacy as hip-hop pioneers.

Review: Snoop Dogg's Missionary delivers a captivating blend of nostalgia and innovation, weaving his signature West Coast vibe into contemporary narratives. The album, produced masterfully by Dr. Dre, resonates with intricate beats and smooth grooves that harken back to the essence of Doggystyle while exploring fresh themes. Standout track 'Gorgeous,' featuring the soothing vocals of Jhene Aiko, illustrates Snoop's lyrical maturity and emotional depth. Available in an exclusive indie vinyl edition, this release comes with a collectible poster, making it a notable addition for both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Prepare for a sonic experience that reaffirms Snoop's iconic status with everyone from Tom Petty to 50 Cent and Eminem and many more guesting.

Review: Snow Patrol's The Forest Is The Path marks a poignant return after six years, delving into themes of love from a distance and introspective reflection. Gary Lightbody's lyrical strength shines as he explores the haunting yet distant memories of past relationships, encapsulated in the lead single 'The Beginning.' The song's drifting melodies and powerful chorus, recorded in a single, raw take, offer a glimpse into the soul. Produced by Fraser T Smith, the album juxtaposes emotional intensity with a serene acceptance of past mistakes. This mature perspective, coupled with the band's characteristic sound, solidifies The Forest Is The Path as a reflective and cathartic journey. Expect this album to be a welcomed comeback to their fans and a successful charts run for the band. This version is pressed on marbled vinyl and housed in a beautiful gatefold that honours the abstract artwork perfectly.

Review: Steely Dan's Katy Lied, released in 1975, marks a pivotal point in the band's trajectory. Known for their meticulous approach to recording and their increasingly complex fusion of rock and jazz, the album sits at the crossroads of their evolution, representing both the height of their creative powers and the growing dissatisfaction of Walter Becker and Donald Fagen with their work. This album sees Steely Dan's transition from a traditional rock band to a more sophisticated, jazz-inflected studio project. The departure of guitarist Jeff "Skunk" Baxter, and their decision to stop touring, freed Becker and Fagen to focus entirely on studio work. Without the need to accommodate a touring lineup, Katy Lied became a playground for an array of top-tier session musicians, including drummer Jeff Porcaro and vocalist Michael McDonald, who would go on to define yacht rock's lush sound. The album's opening track, 'Black Friday', encapsulates Steely Dan's knack for blending lyrical wit with biting social commentary. It's a jaunty rock tune about apocalyptic scenarios and cashing in on chaos, with Fagen's sly delivery making it unclear whether he's advocating rebellion or simply observing it with a smirk. This tension between cool detachment and grim humor runs throughout Katy Lied, lending the album its disorienting charm. Tracks like 'Bad Sneakers' and 'Doctor Wu' mix cryptic narratives with immaculate musicianship. 'Doctor Wu', one of Steely Dan's most beloved tracks, balances between a love triangle and drug addiction with a saxophone solo from jazz great Phil Woods that ties the song's knot of ambiguity into a gorgeous, bittersweet bow. While Katy Lied features some of Steely Dan's most intricate compositions, it also hints at the moral ambiguity that would become a hallmark of their later albums. Katy Lied holds up as one of Steely Dan's most interesting records, a liminal album that bridges the gap between the rockier early years and the slick perfectionism of later efforts like Aja and Gaucho. It captures Becker and Fagen still in the process of refining their vision, grappling with the frustrations of the studio, but channeling that tension into songs that remain sharp, enigmatic and unflinchingly human.