Back catalogue: Rock (All)

Review: This reissue marks the vinyl debut of Alien Ant Farm's 2003 album, a record that captures the band's energetic blend of alternative rock and nu-metal. Produced by Stone Temple Pilots' Robert and Dean DeLeo, the album features a raw and powerful sound, with tracks like '1000 Days' and 'Drifting Apart' showcasing the band's heavy riffs and dynamic songwriting. 'Quiet' and 'Glow' offer moments of introspection, while 'These Days' and 'Sarah Wynn' deliver infectious melodies and catchy hooks. The album also includes a four-page booklet with lyrics, adding another dimension to the listening experience. This reissue is a must-have for fans of Alien Ant Farm and anyone who appreciates the raw energy and melodic hooks of early 2000s alternative rock.

Review: One of the key releases of the first wave of the New Wave of British heavy metal, the self-titled Angel Witch debut full-length, has long been heralded, praised, analysed and remembered as a vital contribution to the world of metallic machinations since its initial 1980 release. Inspiring waves of black metal, thrash, death and almost any other form of sonic extremity one can lay their ears upon, the work was misunderstood by many not prepared for the monumental surge in popularity the metal scene would ride over the ensuing decades. That being said, the project had those who would fight its corner, with its credence eventually leading to the same regard as say, Iron Maiden's self-titled affair, yet channelling far darker avenues of influence. Chalk most of the genre's expansion throughout the 80s, and you'll always circle back to this monumental classic.

Review: From the first notes of the Talking Heads-esque opening of the title track, which has none other than The Cure's Robert Smith as guest backing vocalist, this album by the great Scottish post-punk legends The Associates has you hooked. It's littered with standout moments, but the wiry bassline which underpins the offbeat guitar on 'Amused As Always' is high up there. It manages to pull off being belligerently repetitive by offsetting any sense of monotony with sheer style. Meanwhile, frontman Billy MacKenzie - who tragically died before his time in 1997 - has a voice to rival that of Robert Smith himself in terms of tone. The Associates may not be as readily cited in the typical indie record collection - but they're probably your favourite band's favourite band. regardless, this album is going to challenge why you've resisted so long in not putting it at the heart of your collection.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


From the first notes of the Talking Heads-esque opening of the title track, which has none other than The Cure's Robert Smith as guest backing vocalist, this album by the great Scottish post-punk legends The Associates has you hooked. It's littered with standout moments, but the wiry bassline which underpins the offbeat guitar on 'Amused As Always' is high up there. It manages to pull off being belligerently repetitive by offsetting any sense of monotony with sheer style. Meanwhile, frontman Billy MacKenzie - who tragically died before his time in 1997 - has a voice to rival that of Robert Smith himself in terms of tone. The Associates may not be as readily cited in the typical indie record collection - but they're probably your favourite band's favourite band. regardless, this album is going to challenge why you've resisted so long in not putting it at the heart of your collection.

Review: Au Pairs imploded shortly after releasing this terrific second and last album of theirs. The Birmingham post-punk band are said to have burned the candle at both ends after the success of their debut and rushed into the studio to make this album. Despite internal disputes, the band managed to take their Gang Of Four-esque sound to new levels. They are more adventurous than on the preceding record as there's saxophone and synth, making for a more textured and layered approach than before. Lyrically, Au Pairs are one of the most important bands of their era. Shockingly avant-garde in the early 80s when it was released, they tackled sexuality and gender politics with ire and wit. The standout on this album: 'Sex Without Stress' - a brilliant lampooning of the societal pressure around sex.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Au Pairs imploded shortly after releasing this terrific second and last album of theirs. The Birmingham post-punk band are said to have burned the candle at both ends after the success of their debut and rushed into the studio to make this album. Despite internal disputes, the band managed to take their Gang Of Four-esque sound to new levels. They are more adventurous than on the preceding record as there's saxophone and synth, making for a more textured and layered approach than before. Lyrically, Au Pairs are one of the most important bands of their era. Shockingly avant-garde in the early 80s when it was released, they tackled sexuality and gender politics with ire and wit. The standout on this album: 'Sex Without Stress' - a brilliant lampooning of the societal pressure around sex.