Back catalogue: All genres

Review: The most innovative, risk-taking and outrageous hip-hop act to come out of France in the last decade, TTC are back. With Cuiziner established as a heartthrob in the US and Teki Latex set to release a pop-rave album, the trio are taking things higher with their third album, "3615". With production from the group's flying helmet-wearing DJ, Orgasmic, as well as the mighty Para One, Tacteel, Modeselektor and Tido himself. This is the band's most consistent and distinctive effort.

Review: Tucka Da Hunta Man - Concrete Jungle 1995 remains a much loved hip hop long player by those who know. But did you know a load of material recorded in the same seasons has mostly lay about unreleased? Well now it gets its day in the sun as Smoke On Records present all exclusive unreleased material on this limited new album. The beats hit hard, with crunchy snares and rhymes that are just as tough. Though old school by definition, these beats still sound fresh today, and the lyrical wordplay still resonates.

Review: The legendary Phiily collective Tuff Crew was the city's first-ever hip-hop supergroup. They famously toured the US as the warm-up act for 2Live Crew and also played with Public Enemy, Run-D.M.C., Biz Markie, Big Daddy Kane, Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock, LL Cool J, and many others. They dropped four albums in all and this is their celebrated debut long player, produced in collaboration with New Jersey's The Crown Rulers. It showcases their bass-heavy style, crisp drum beats and raw street lyrics with aggressive scratch DJing adding the final touches.

Review: South African rapper TUMI teams up with French trio Chinese Man for a genre-defying collaboration here that reimagines hip-hop through a global lens. Drawing from dusty crates and forgotten corners of music history, such as banjo riffs, 1930s swing and Andean flutes, the production is a crate-digger's dream that boldly ventures far beyond traditional hip-hop terrain. The result is a rich, textured sound that's both nostalgic and refreshingly new as TUMI's lyrics weave between irony and poignancy and are grounded in sonic experimentation with sharp social commentary. This is a bold, borderless journey and proof that when cultures and styles collide, magic happens.

Review: There must be something in the air right now because a whole bunch of superb video game soundtracks seemed to have arrived on our racks in recent weeks. First came Minecraft, Donkey Kong, Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion and now Tune In With Chewie on CameChops. Samus & Chill is a fine album that flips the the dark original Metroid soundtrack into something totally blissed out and laid back with lofi hip-hop, plenty of soft piano chords, smooth vintage synths and much more making this a really escapist listen.

Review: Turbin is back!! Originally from Skool Yard Massive/EXL (Executive Lounge Project), Turbin is ready to set it off with his highly anticipated solo full length "Born With Nothing, Die With Nothing". For this album, Turbin teams up with the Architect (Homeliss Derelix) and a full arsenal of MC appearances including Planet Asia, Encore, Rasco, Shake, Grand and newcomer Holokaust. This is street hip hop at it's best, go get dat!!!

Review: Timed to perfection with the sun shining through the windows of the Juno office, Turquoise Summers returns with a new slab of So Cal Fonk for the Omega Supreme label. A Touch Of Turquoise , last year's debut LP from Summers, was a superb induction into the world of twilight funk the musician inhabits and there's plenty more speakerboxx vibes on display with this six track Shades EP. From the very moment the stripped back snap and heavy synth funk of opening cut "The Way You Make Me Feel" veers into focus, the man like Turquoise is on top form, sailing through tempos and moods - think introspective and party starting with "Divinity(Crystalized)" a true highlight. A must for those that live for the funk.

Review: Twit One's third solo album on Melting Pot Music is another treasure trove of beats with a high class guest list including Reginald Omas Mamode IV from London, Lamchop's lead singer Kurt Wagner from Nashville and Keshavara and Imam Ally Salaam from Cologne. The record plays out like a perfect lazy afternoon, with soul drenched beatdowns, plenty of earth rhythms and intimate spoken word contributions that add layers of depth and meaning. The artist calls his own style cool bap, and frankly it's a perfect description. This is fad free, timeless beat making in the mould of Dilla or Moodymann.

Review: After the critical and commercial success of 2003's Mercury-nominated "Upwards", MC/producer Ty returns with "Closer" - his strongest, most-focused, most rewarding work to date. Lauded by everyone from Lily Allen to Robert Wyatt, Ty is an artist who likes to take giant steps with every record he makes. With "Closer" he has reached a career pinnacle, a record packed with sharp hooks, killer basslines and clever wordplay, a humorous, funky and thoughtful stroll through the mind of the man himself and the life he leads. From the opening bars of "Don't Watch That" you know you're in for something special. Lazy guitar stabs and the snap of the break lead you into Ty's dissection of the rumours that swirl around him: "Apparently I walk with a thousand grand/And love fat girls dipped in marzipan". "Everybody" utilises the sharpest proto-dancehall to get you moving, while "This Here Music" is pure pop delight. "The Idea" sees Ty joined by long-term friends and collaborators De La Soul, and "What You Want" is the next level of the kind of broken/hip hop he pioneered on "Upwards". Title track "Closer" wouldn't sound out of place on a Kanye record - a big, emotional tune over which Ty drops beautiful lyrics. "Sweating For Your Salary" sees him revisit his Nigerian roots, "Oh!" pairs machine funk with incisive words, while "Hustle" finishes the album on an emotional high, a remarkable exposition of Ty's philosophy. Ty has spent the time since the release of "Upward" building a formidable live rep and has toured all over the world. In particular, his time in the USA has allowed him to build such a reputation that he could call in guest slots from De La Soul, Speech of Arrested Development, Bahamadia, Rich Medina and Zion I. Throw in vocal contributions from UK-based singers such as Eska and Vula (best known for her work with Basement Jaxx) and you have a reputation for one of the best, most soulful, funkiest, thoughtful black music albums since a while.

Review: After the critical and commercial success of 2003's Mercury-nominated "Upwards", MC/producer Ty returns with "Closer" - his strongest, most-focused, most rewarding work to date. Lauded by everyone from Lily Allen to Robert Wyatt, Ty is an artist who likes to take giant steps with every record he makes. With "Closer" he has reached a career pinnacle, a record packed with sharp hooks, killer basslines and clever wordplay, a humorous, funky and thoughtful stroll through the mind of the man himself and the life he leads. From the opening bars of "Don't Watch That" you know you're in for something special. Lazy guitar stabs and the snap of the break lead you into Ty's dissection of the rumours that swirl around him: "Apparently I walk with a thousand grand/And love fat girls dipped in marzipan". "Everybody" utilises the sharpest proto-dancehall to get you moving, while "This Here Music" is pure pop delight. "The Idea" sees Ty joined by long-term friends and collaborators De La Soul, and "What You Want" is the next level of the kind of broken/hip hop he pioneered on "Upwards". Title track "Closer" wouldn't sound out of place on a Kanye record - a big, emotional tune over which Ty drops beautiful lyrics. "Sweating For Your Salary" sees him revisit his Nigerian roots, "Oh!" pairs machine funk with incisive words, while "Hustle" finishes the album on an emotional high, a remarkable exposition of Ty's philosophy. Ty has spent the time since the release of "Upward" building a formidable live rep and has toured all over the world. In particular, his time in the USA has allowed him to build such a reputation that he could call in guest slots from De La Soul, Speech of Arrested Development, Bahamadia, Rich Medina and Zion I. Throw in vocal contributions from UK-based singers such as Eska and Vula (best known for her work with Basement Jaxx) and you have a reputation for one of the best, most soulful, funkiest, thoughtful black music albums since a while.

Review: Tyla is an already hotly-tipped South African singer and songwriter but the release of this new self-titled album is sure to take her to the next level and be one of 2024's biggest and best. It's a fusion of r&b and amapiano - a mix of house, jazz, downtempo and rich melody from her native South Africa - that is topped with her seductive and soft vocals. Channeling the likes of the great Aaliyah, it's been proceeded day the captivating lead single 'Waze' and is full of heart melting moments of tender r&b beauty. It has been two years in the making and was recorded in Jamaica so is pulled with subtle sunshine that makes it all the more perfectly timed.

Review: Tyla every much burst onto the global r&b scene with her breakout single 'Water.' Se quickly capitalised on summer ubiquity with a self-titled album which showcases her distinct blend of Afrobeat, pop and r&b. It's a mix of the usual tropes - sultry, steamy vocals, lovely smooth bass, rich melodic hooks and polished production that doesnt lose an intimate edge. Tyla brings an energy that's both vibrant and emotional with her vocals and while her most famous single remains her best work, her ability to weave personal experiences into her lyrics adds depth on this record which does a god job of showing her impressive vocal range.

Review: Tyler, the Creator's fifth studio album was produced entirely by the Californian artist himself, but it does feature guests like Solange, Playboi Carti, Kanye West and Lil Uzi Vert. It immediately debuted at number one and it's easy to see why. Rich with a complex fusion of funk, rap and r&b that glides on Cali-synths and neo soul melodies, the whole thing is tethered to the ground with a hefty low end and follows the narrative of a love triangle as told by American comedian Jerrod Carmichael. Arguably his best work to date, the production is next level and storytelling wholly involving.

Review: Actively wanting to distance himself from his divisive debut projects 'Goblin' and 'Bastard', American rapper and internet personality Tyler, the Creator pulled off a major tonal shift with 'Wolf'. Featuring his first high-profile features, like that of Mike G and Erykah Badu on the simmering 'Treehome 95', Tyler put it on record that he just wanted to make music for people to get high to as opposed to the aggressive, angsty hardcore angle on 'Yuckers' that got him famous. That doesn't mean that Tyler is dead, 'Jamba' and 'Tamale' still have that crunch for the old-school fans, but 'Wolf' shares much with its successor 'Cherry Bomb' in its awkward transitional sound leaving them as outliers in critics 'Best of Tyler' lists.

These are both amazing albums, with the rare praisers of which earning nothing but respect because, in all honesty, every Tyler, the Creator album is incredible - despite what the self-deprecating genius himself may say.

Review: Tyler, the Creator's fifth studio album was produced entirely by the Californian artist himself, but it does feature guests like Solange, Playboi Carti, Kanye West and Lil Uzi Vert. It immediately debuted at number one and it's easy to see why. Rich with a complex fusion of funk, rap and r&b that glides on Cali-synths and neo soul melodies, the whole thing is tethered to the ground with a hefty low end and follows the narrative of a love triangle as told by American comedian Jerrod Carmichael. Arguably his best work to date, the production is next level and storytelling wholly involving.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Slights dents to the right side of the outer sleeve, otherwise in excellent condition***


. Tyler, The Creator is the 20 year old rapper,
producer, writer, video director, visual artist,
skater, cultural lightning rod and leader of LA's
acclaimed Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All
(OFWGKTA).
. OFWGKTA are an eleven strong hip hop collective
from Los Angeles who have self-released twelve
solo albums over the last three years, including
Tyler's solo album 'Bastard'.
. Tyler, The Creator is now set to release his second
album 'Goblin' worldwide on XL Recordings.
. The 15 track album features the track 'Yonkers',
whose Tyler-directed video has already racked up
nearly five million hits on Youtube.
. 'Goblin' will be released on CD, vinyl and digital
download, plus a deluxe CD version that will
feature three exclusive new tracks.
. Meanwhile, following year-defining US TV
appearances on the Jimmy Fallon show and the
MTV Woodies plus performances at this year's
SXSW which marked OFWGKTA as the undeniable
festival highlight, Tyler, The Creator and
OFWGKTA will be coming to the UK at the end of
April.
. Details of their UK shows will be announced
shortly.
Tracklisting
Goblin
Yonkers
Radicals
She
Transylvania
Nightmare
Tron Cat
Her
Sandwitches
Fish
Analog
BSD
Window
AU79
Golden
Bonus Tracks on Deluxe
2CD (XLCD529X)
Burger
Untitled 63
Steak Sauce
(XLCD529

Review: Tyson's debut album is a captivating exploration of deep, soulful r&b infused with diverse sonic influences. Produced and co-written with Oscar Scheller, the album spans ten tracks that delve into homegrown bass cultureibreakbeats, street soul and trip-hopiwhile incorporating icy 80s synthpop and expansive 00s r&b. The result is a unique, boundary-pushing sound. Highlights include 'Jumpstart', a smooth, atmospheric piece that blends dub, drum & bass and trap into a mesmerising groove. 'Alien Romance' introduces futuristic elements with inventive soundscapes that merge r&b and hip-hop, creating an otherworldly yet accessible vibe. Meanwhile, 'Angel Dust' wraps listeners in a magical, ambient euphoria, showcasing Tyson's ability to craft deeply immersive tracks. Tyson's raw, emotive vocals and innovative production make this a seamless fusion of nostalgia and modernity that redefines contemporary urban music. Fans of experimental yet deeply soulful music will find plenty to love in this remarkable debut.

Review: You probably have to be of a certain vintage to remember Trevor Jackson's stint as Underdog. A valiant attempt to blend gritty hip-hop beats, crackly jazz basslines and bluesy downtempo sounds during the trip-hop era, Jackson became the go-to man for those seeking shuffling, atmospheric, dancefloor-friendly beats during the 1990s. This first retrospective (a second is also available) mines some of the best Underdog remixes, flitting between well-known rubs of Massive Attack and House of Pain (the still ace "Top Of The Morning To Ya"), and lesser-known interpretations of the likes of Shara Nelson, Peshay and Ice. Best of all, though, is his still-fresh mix of Data's "Optimus Prime", which flits between string-laden hip-hop and raucous '90s jungle.

Review: This second celebration of Trevor Jackson's early work under the Underdog pseudonym is a delicious blast from the past. It recalls a heady time when Jackson's gritty, atmospheric take on hip-hop - all low-slung double basslines, bluesy boom-bap beats and intoxicating effects - provided a refreshing antidote to the mediocre trip-hop that dominated the scene. Like its predecessor, Greatest Bits Volume 2 showcases another two discs worth of classic remixes and unreleased alternative takes, effortlessly flitting between dancefloor hip-hop jams (Gravediggaz, House of Pain, Pharcyde), drum machine electro (a great take on Alex Reece) and cinematic electronica (a previously unheard version of Gary Numan's "Films").

Review: Since first slipped out as an ultra-limited cassette back in 2015, demand has been high for wider reissue of beat-maker Mndsgn and mic man The Koreatown Oddity's first collaboration as Vivians. Listening to this much-needed vinyl edition, it's easy to see why. With a string of guest MCs and producers lending a hand, the mix-tape style affair delivers a contemporary take on the classic West Coast rap sound, where synth-heavy 80s funk jams are looped and cut up more than jazz records or James Brown breaks. It's not quite G-funk, but there are enough nods towards it to suggest that it was in the two Los Angeles' artists thoughts when they created the album. Either way, it's a gem of an album.

Review: Kanye West may be widely criticised and sidelined these days, but he will forever be known as a vital hip-hop pioneer whose influence is undeniable. Back in 2024, he teamed up with Ty Dolla $ign to release Vultures 1 - an album that is bold and genre-defying and reflects the duo's musical prowess and polarising personas. Production is layered and lush, with contributions from heavyweights like Timbaland and James Blake, and standout features from equally big names like Playboi Carti and Travis Scott. Tracks here all shine with lively rhythms and high-energy flows, even if the lyrics don't always hit the mark. Nonetheless, the project topped the Billboard 200 all the same.

Review: Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign's collaboration offers a compelling blend of hip-hop and r&b, showcasing their distinctive styles. Tracks like 'Burn' and 'Talking' highlight their seamless integration of vocals and production. The splattered vinyl 2xLP edition enhances the auditory experience, complementing the album's rich soundscapes. This release underscores both artists' enduring influence in contemporary music.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Warped records***


Kanye West's new collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign, VULTURES 1, feels unexpectedly cohesive and fully realizedia surprising change of pace for West's recent output. Known for raw and often incomplete releases, this time he brings clear production and a crisp, polished mix. Ty's smooth delivery contrasts with Kanye's own verses, blending effortlessly on tracks like the Donna Summer-sampling 'Good (Don't Die)'. Rhythmic, industrial beats provide a dynamic backdrop, especially on tracks like 'Paid' and 'Carnival,' giving this album a depth that stands out in West's complex, ever-evolving catalogue.

Review: He might pretty much be cancelled these days but there is no denying the impact Kanye West has had on hip-hop. As recently as last year with Ty Dolla $ign he cooked up 'Vultures 1' which now comes as a special Carnival Edition and is a provocative, genre-blending affair that showcases both artists' strengths and controversies. The production is sonically rich with contributions from top-tier talents like Timbaland and James Blake, and guest appearances from venerated verse men such as Playboi Carti and Travis Scott. Tracks like 'Carnival' stand out with their infectious drum patterns and energetic deliveries even if the lyrical content is not up there with their usual best work. Despite the controversies surrounding West, this album achieved commercial success and topped the US Billboard 200 chart.

Review: Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign join forces on Vultures 1, delivering a polished, cohesive project that showcases their combined talents. The album feels unusually complete for West's recent output, with crisp mixes and dynamic arrangements that highlight Ty's signature silk-and-grit vocals alongside Kanye's evolving artistry. From the airy melodies of opener 'Stars' to the Donna Summer-sampling 'Good (Don't Die)', the album strikes a compelling balance between nostalgia and innovation. Tracks like 'Burn' and 'Paid' stand out with hypnotic beats and intricate rhythms, while the Brazilian funk-inspired 'Paperwork' adds a playful, global flair. Ty's smooth hooks complement Kanye's performances, which, while technically precise, focus more on fitting the production's mood than dominating it. The production shines throughout, blending industrial textures with moments of emotional resonance. Songs like 'Carnival', featuring Playboi Carti and Rich the Kid, bristle with energy, while the lush layering on 'Do It' and 'Fuk Sumn' enhances their infectious grooves. Despite occasional lyrical flatness, the album's sonic brilliance and pacing make it a captivating listen.

Review: Kanye West's new collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign, VULTURES 1, feels unexpectedly cohesive and fully realizedia surprising change of pace for West's recent output. Known for raw and often incomplete releases, this time he brings clear production and a crisp, polished mix. Ty's smooth delivery contrasts with Kanye's own verses, blending effortlessly on tracks like the Donna Summer-sampling 'Good (Don't Die)'. Rhythmic, industrial beats provide a dynamic backdrop, especially on tracks like 'Paid' and 'Carnival,' giving this album a depth that stands out in West's complex, ever-evolving catalogue.

Review: Vultures 1, Kanye West's collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign, is a refreshingly cohesive entry in West's catalog, showcasing his attention to refined, crisp production. Unlike his recent, more experimental releases, Vultures is polished and sonically unified, with beats that highlight Kanye's inventive sound design and Ty Dolla's smooth vocals. Tracks like 'Good (Don't Die)' nod to 808s & Heartbreak, delivering a nostalgic yet modern take on Kanye's signature introspection, while 'Carnival' pulses with rich textures, blending elements of Brazilian funk and industrial beats to create a hypnotic groove. Kanye's verses are more technically precise than ever, and though his lyrics are less personal, they maintain a certain energy that keeps the momentum alive. Ty Dolla's silky, gravelly tones are the perfect counterpoint, adding warmth and balance. From the bouncy 'Stars' to the club-ready 'Burn', the album is built on rhythms that are as intricate as they are accessible. Though more restrained in theme, Vultures achieves a polished, infectious sound with irresistible beats and thoughtful production, proving Kanye can still push boundaries while embracing a more mainstream appeal.

Review: Wiki's new album, 14K Figaro, arrives after a slew of collaborative projects with the likes of The Alchemist and MIKE, Navy Blue, Subjxct5, and NAH. The album is produced entirely by Tony Seltzer, a longtime collaborator who helped soundtrack his earliest efforts - including No Mountains in Manhattan, his 2017 debut album for XL Recordings, and Oofie, its potent 2019 follow-up. Guest features include the World's Fair MC Remy Banks, the Bruiser Brigade spitter Zelooperz, and the prolific D.C. native WifiGawd. A curveball in relation to his past projects, the native New York opts for a clean sound, adding in pepperings of drill and net rap - with samply stutters abounding on lackadaisical favourites like 'RL' - yet retaining the streetwise, grilled enfant terrible's omnipresent rawness.

Review: Tha YOD Fahim is a second joint release between Your Old Droog & Tha God Fahim and it is a celebration of their fine combined talents. The pair have a well-rooted chemistry that plays out in the tunes even with guest appearances from the likes of Pharoahe Monch, Left Lane Didon and Sar?nas Mar?iulionis. Hot on the heels of Tha Wolf On Wall St back in January, this full-length develops what was teased back then with sick bars and richly detailed percussion that mixes up raw hip hop roots with a forward-thinking vibe. All 14 tracks are movies for the mind but remain proudly unpretentious.

Review: Following many previous bits of music gold, long-time collaborators American rapper YUNGMORPHEUS and Queens, New York beatmaker THERAVADA once again link up to great effect for Against The Wall; A Degree Of Lunacy. This new album speaks of the artists' personal endeavors and manages to pair wisdom with plenty of braggadocious and left-of-center lyricism. THERAVADA produced the whole thing but the record also has guest features from Awhlee and Starker. These two manage to find a perfect new middle ground between their respective sounds and backgrounds and that results in what is a standout modern album.