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Review: The Beatles: The Red Album: 1962-1966 encapsulates the iconic band's early years with a dynamic selection of tracks that have now all been remastered at half speed so they sound extra good. This compilation showcases the evolution of their sound from the exuberant energy of 'Love Me Do' to the groundbreaking creativity of 'A Hard Day's Night' and beyond. There are also timeless hits like 'Twist and Shout' and 'Yesterday,' which means this collection serves as a definitive journey through the first part of the The Beatles' legendary catalogue. Each song is a direct portal back to the 60s and to the vibrant era of Beatlemania at the peak of its powers.

Review: There's always an awful lot to talk about with Beck - an American rock icon whose enigmatic character is defined by the fact labels like 'American rock icon' are way too simplistic. Hyperspace couldn't be a more useful example, a record that turns its attention to a sci-fi R&B pop sound that's an immediate giveaway of Pharrell Williams' involvement as producer on more than half the album.

All of which would be jarring if this weren't Beck, a proper shapeshifter. Pulling it off with far more than aplomb implies, it's a warm, sexy evening ride through the e-funked up streets of LA on a warm night exceptionally juxtaposed with a lyrical flavour that's sorrowful and reflective, the product of both the artist's failing relationship at the time of writing and his well-documented understanding of the human condition.

Review: Indie darling Beck has been 'Thinking About You' on what is his first new music in some time since he dropped his GRAMMY-winning Hyperspace album. This single gets pressed up to a limited edition golden-brown 7" to mark the much-loved artist's birthday and it is a sublime bit of prime and emotional Beck as his heart-tugging best. The ballad has some sombre harmonica, acoustic guitar lushness and was recorded in the same room as his classic 'Sea Change'. On the flip side is his GRAMMY-nominated cover of Neil Young's 'Old Man' which is a wistful sound with rich tones.

Review: In many ways, the debut solo album from Ed O'Brien could have sounded like anything - the Radiohead guitarist has been involved in plenty of sonic experimentations with that outfit, while comrade in arms Thom Yorke has managed to triumph both on the indie rock and electronic club music circuits, elements that could easily have found their way onto this record. The truth is 'Earth' doesn't really sound like Radiohead, or most contemporary electronic permutations. You could almost argue there is an air of nostalgia running through the release, certainly 'Shangri-La' feels that way, shades of Madchester and the great indie-dance crossover days are more than audible. From there we have lo-fi pop edginess ('Banksters'), the sweet and innocent acoustic job 'Long Time Coming', and the breathy, loose, broken and floaty 'Olympik'. In short, it grooves, grows, ebbs and flows in a way that shows a true master at work.

Review: After debuting atop the charts in numerous countries with his third studio album, The Show, Niall Horan returns with The Show: The Encore - a deluxe edition featuring nine bonus tracks. Packed with the very same pedal-noting ballads coming in the crispest, pop-sheeny quality, such as 'The Show', the complementary Encore Version hears Horan team up with John Legend for a refrain reimagining. Niall also collaborates with Lizzy McAlpine on a new version of 'You Could Start A Cult'. The collection also includes new live recordings from the Electric Picnic festival and Spotify Studios, plus alternate versions of 'Meltdown' and 'On A Night Like Tonight' from Niall's Vevo Extended Play session.

Review: Those who know are saying that Ice Spice is set to have a big year in 2023. The rapper is doing her own bit to make that come true with this, a first official release via 10K Projects/Capitol Records, which includes a single made with assistance from 'Gangsta Boo.' The Bronx rapper has generated lots of buzz up to now and this six tracker only builds on that with great production from RIOTUSA. It includes breakout single 'Munch (Feelings U)' and her newest hit 'In Ha Mood.' Add in catchy cuts like 'Actin' A Smoochie' and you have a real winner.

Review: Superstar American rockers Kings of Leon are back with a new album Can We Please Have Fun and it exudes a vibrant energy and infectious spirit that is both refreshing and invigorating. From start to finish, the band delivers a captivating blend of all their usual big hooks, driving guitar lead rhythms and anthemic choruses that demand attention from big crowds. Tracks like 'Let's Dance' and 'Feel Alive' showcase the band's ability to craft memorable melodies while maintaining their signature rock edge. With its dynamic songwriting and polished production, this is yet another triumphant return for Kings of Leon that solidies their status as one of the premier rock acts of their generation.

Review: Fifty years to the week of its original release, MPL and UMe announce the expanded 50th anniversary edition of Paul McCartney & Wings' iconic Band on the Run, due 2 February 2024. A fixture of all-time greatest album lists for decades, the smash album was originally released in December of 1973. Featuring the immortal title track, worldwide hit 'Jet,' the wistful 'Bluebird,' long-time live staple 'Let Me Roll It,' the multi-faceted 'Picasso's Last Words (Drink to Me)' and climactic closer 'Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five,' Band on the Run is undoubtedly Wings' most successful and celebrated release ever.