Back catalogue: Rock

Review: It's been 50 years, give or take a few months, since Juliet Lawson bestowed Boo on the world. Landing on the Sovereign record label, the debut album was as confident as it was vulnerable and forward thinking, marking the arrival of a bonafide super talent who would emerge in tandem with a slew of incredible British songwriters (Nick Drake, Christine McVie, Vashti Bunyan). But even in and among that landscape, this one was something truly unique. Over the next half century, Boo rightly achieved cult status, giving Lawson her only real commercial success, despite the fact the record refuses to pander to anything like commercialism. Now rarer than British sunshine in November, this new pressing of the LP on vinyl, with bonus 7" single featuring two early demo tracks produced by ex-Yardbirds founder Paul Samwell-Smith, should not be missed.

Review: Whole Lotta Live is an essential album for fans of the great British rock outing Led Zeppelin. It was recorded back in 1969 when they performed a magnificent live show for the BBC right in the midst of some of their most successful times. This one comes via Yellow Vin on yellow vinyl and features their biggest hit 'Whole Lotta Love' - which is cleverly punned on in the title - and further fan favourites like 'What Is & What Should Never Be', 'How Many More Times' and the great 'I Can't Quit You Baby' also make the cut.

Review: In 1972, for the first time since 1969, Led Zeppelin didn't release an album. Following the success of Led Zeppelin IV in November 1971, the band spent most of 1972 touring and next album Houses of the Holy did not arrive until March 1973. In February, they toured Australia, followed by a North American tour in June. On June 9th, they delivered one of their standout performances at the Charlotte Coliseum in North Carolina and the set featured tracks from their latest album and fan favourites like the iconic 'Stairway to Heaven.' Now, for the first time, this show is available on vinyl and this is part two of the vital collection.

Review: In 1972, for the first time since 1969, Led Zeppelin didn't release an album. After the success of Led Zeppelin IV in November 1971 they spent most of 1972 touring with Houses of the Holy not arriving until March 1973. February saw the band in Australia, followed by a June North American tour. On June 9, they played Charlotte, North Carolina, at the Coliseum and served up one of their best performances of the tour. The set included tracks from their latest album and fan favourites like the epic 'Stairway to Heaven.' Previously unreleased on vinyl, this new edition finally captures the entire show on wax.

Review: Newly, radically reimagined remixes created from John Lennon's classic song, Mind Games. These nine Meditation Mixes craft their own space while maintaining firm and authentic roots in John Lennon's original recording. Each have been radically altered, slowed down and extended, ranging from five to ten to over 33 minutes, allowing the soundtrack to wash over the listener and provide a relaxing deep listening experience. Four tracks are presented as binaural versions which each focus on different types of brain waves: Beta, Delta, Gamma and Theta. Named 'Mind', 'Space', 'Spirit' and 'Love', these exploit the response of the ear to left and right frequencies, which constructively combine to produce a new frequency, which in turn, as they say, activates beneficial brain patterns. Produced by Sean Lennon, these contemporary Lennon versions aim to positively impact the contemporary anxiety-racked listener, whose appetite for deep listening has only understandably increased in recent years.

Review: This compilation gathers some of John Lennon's most powerful and politically charged songs, offering a glimpse into the heart and mind of a musical revolutionary. Spanning his solo career, the collection features tracks like 'Gimme Some Truth', 'Imagine', and 'Working Class Hero', each one a testament to Lennon's fearless songwriting and his unwavering commitment to social justice. The album's raw energy and emotional intensity are palpable, reflecting the turbulent times in which these songs were written. From the anti-war anthem 'Give Peace A Chance' to the poignant ballad 'Love', 'Gimme Some Truth' is a reminder of Lennon's enduring legacy as a voice for peace, love, and social change.

Review: Mind Games, John Lennon's fourth solo album released in late October 1973, arrived amid personal turmoil and political unrest, reflecting Lennon's ongoing battles with US immigration and his anti-Vietnam war activism. Recorded at NYC's Record Plant with a stellar lineup of musicians, the album is overseen by Yoko Ono Lennon and produced by Sean Ono Lennon, offering a fully remixed and expanded audio experience. Lennon's songwriting delves into his relationship with Ono, showcasing heartfelt tracks like the title song and 'Aisumasen (I'm Sorry),' imbued with sincerity and emotion. Other highlights include the politically charged 'Bring On the Lucie (Freda People)' and the '50s-inspired 'Tight A$.' The album excels in composition, production, and lyrical depth, epitomizing Lennon's creative strength. Mind Games sees Lennon's resilience and artistic evolution. Its eclectic mix of themes and musical styles, from rock to balladry, renders it a timeless classic. With its heartfelt sincerity and imaginative flair, Mind Games remains a great listen through Lennon's multifaceted artistry.

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


Newly, radically reimagined remixes created from John Lennon's classic song, Mind Games. These nine Meditation Mixes craft their own space while maintaining firm and authentic roots in John Lennon's original recording. Each have been radically altered, slowed down and extended, ranging from five to ten to over 33 minutes, allowing the soundtrack to wash over the listener and provide a relaxing deep listening experience. Four tracks are presented as binaural versions which each focus on different types of brain waves: Beta, Delta, Gamma and Theta. Named 'Mind', 'Space', 'Spirit' and 'Love', these exploit the response of the ear to left and right frequencies, which constructively combine to produce a new frequency, which in turn, as they say, activates beneficial brain patterns. Produced by Sean Lennon, these contemporary Lennon versions aim to positively impact the contemporary anxiety-racked listener, whose appetite for deep listening has only understandably increased in recent years.

Review: Certified 8xPlatinum and ranked at number eight in the highest selling albums of the 21st century, 2003's Meteora saw nu-metal legends Linkin Park attempt (and very much succeed) to make lightning strike in the same place twice with their now iconic follow up to their 2000 12xPlatinum selling debut Hybrid Theory. Launching the "Because Sound Matters One-Step" series with new high-fidelity remasters of their first three albums, these audiophile reissues arrive in newly designed slipcases, complete with elaborate details of the audio processing stages. Pressed to 180-gram standard black vinyl with all 3000 copies numbered, rediscover a genre-staple with some of the band's biggest hits remastered to their fullest sonic potential yet, including 'Numb', 'Faint', 'Breaking The Habit', and, 'Somewhere I Belong'. Never has the veteran production of Terry Date and his seamless ability to fuse the band's warring metallic and hip-hop centric identities, felt so prominent and clear, while the passing of frontman Chester Bennington in 2017 shrouds his lyrical honesty and vulnerable cadence in harrowing retrospectivity.

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


Linkin Park's Minutes to Midnight marks a pivotal shift from their nu-metal roots, exploring a richer musical landscape. Co-produced with Rick Rubin, this 2007 release blends alternative rock, hip-hop and political insights, evident in tracks like 'What I've Done' and 'Hands Held High' and a collision of dynamic experimentation with aggressive rock and infectious melodies in 'Bleed It Out.' A commercial and critical success, Minutes to Midnight further broadened Linkin Park's appeal and impact and now vinyl-loving Park fans have a chance add it to their collections.

Review: Linkin Park's Minutes to Midnight marks a pivotal shift from their nu-metal roots, exploring a richer musical landscape. Co-produced with Rick Rubin, this 2007 release blends alternative rock, hip-hop and political insights, evident in tracks like 'What I've Done' and 'Hands Held High' and a collision of dynamic experimentation with aggressive rock and infectious melodies in 'Bleed It Out.' A commercial and critical success, Minutes to Midnight further broadened Linkin Park's appeal and impact and now vinyl-loving Park fans have a chance add it to their collections.

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


Certified 8xPlatinum and ranked at number eight in the highest selling albums of the 21st century, 2003's Meteora saw nu-metal legends Linkin Park attempt (and very much succeed) to make lightning strike in the same place twice with their now iconic follow up to their 2000 12xPlatinum selling debut Hybrid Theory. Launching the "Because Sound Matters One-Step" series with new high-fidelity remasters of their first three albums, these audiophile reissues arrive in newly designed slipcases, complete with elaborate details of the audio processing stages. Pressed to 180-gram standard black vinyl with all 3000 copies numbered, rediscover a genre-staple with some of the band's biggest hits remastered to their fullest sonic potential yet, including 'Numb', 'Faint', 'Breaking The Habit', and, 'Somewhere I Belong'. Never has the veteran production of Terry Date and his seamless ability to fuse the band's warring metallic and hip-hop centric identities, felt so prominent and clear, while the passing of frontman Chester Bennington in 2017 shrouds his lyrical honesty and vulnerable cadence in harrowing retrospectivity.

Review: Little Feat's Deluxe Edition of Feats Don't Fail Me Now celebrates the 50th anniversary of the iconic group's fourth studio album. Released on a triple CD set, this edition features newly remastered studio recordings alongside rare alternate versions and outtakes from the album sessions. Included in the collection is an exclusive unreleased live recording from Little Feat's 1975 performance in Paris, showcasing the band's dynamic energy on stage. Despite the challenges posed by the loss of session tapes from Blue Seas Recording Studio, where the album was originally recorded, this Deluxe Edition offers a treasure trove of previously unheard material. Feats Don't Fail Me Now highlights the classic lineup's talents, with standout tracks like Rock & Roll Doctor and Oh Atlanta, complemented by the funk-infused sounds of Tower of Power's horn section. Originally released in 1974, the album garnered critical acclaim for its funky grooves and reached gold status, marking a significant milestone in Little Feat's career as it climbed to #36 on the Billboard Top 200.With its wealth of unreleased content and enhanced audio quality, this Deluxe Edition promises to delight both longtime fans and newcomers to Little Feat's timeless music.

Review: Behold Little Feat's Time Loves A Hero, a 35-minute masterclass in redefiningrock music. This album transcends generations, proving that if your parents were right about rock music being great in their days. Little Feat's sixth studio effort effortlessly blends New Orleans blues, urban funk, and jazz fusion without losing its signature southern rock swagger. Kicking off with the assertive funk of 'Hi Roller,' the band showcases complex keyboard lines and intricate drum work. The standout track, 'Day at the Dog Races,' is a cosmic odyssey of southern rock grooves and wild jazz fusion. Tracks like 'Old Folks Boogie' balance experimental sounds with playful, tongue-in-cheek lyrics. Little Feat's ability to merge eclectic song structures with muscular musicality makes this album timeless. Thanks to Rhino Records, this classic is now reissued on vinyl, inviting a new generation to discover the magic of Little Feat.

Review: Many fans feel that Feats Don't Fail Me Now stands as the pinnacle in Little Feat's career, showing their unparalleled blend of funk, rock, and jazz influences. The album captures the electrifying energy of their live performances while maintaining a cohesive sound from start to finish. Tracks like 'Rock & Roll Doctor' and 'Oh, Atlanta' exemplify the band's playful yet funky attitude, while Skin It Back demonstrates their tight musicianship and jazzy funk groove. Lowell George's bluesy slide guitar work shines on songs like Down the Road and the gem Spanish Moon, which features an irresistible brass section adding to its dynamic excitement. The title track, 'Feats Don't Fail Me Now,' is a great example at their spontaneous performance style. George and Payne's 'The Fan' expands the band's horizons with its jazzy time signature and spirited instrumentation. The album's highlight is the 10-minute medley of 'Cold, Cold, Cold' and 'Tripe Face Boogie,' which effortlessly blends slow funk with energetic shuffle and features captivating instrumental sections dominated by Bill Payne's jazzy piano. Feats Don't Fail Me Now represents the moment when everything came together for Little Feat, resulting in an album of mirthful, enchanting and exuberant music that maintains a high level of integrity throughout.

Review: Living Colour's Time's Up (1990) stands as a powerful sophomore effort that remains deeply relevant. Following the success of Vivid (1988), the band sought to expand their funk rock sound while addressing pressing social issues. The result is an album both musically impressive and lyrically poignant. The title track, 'Time's Up,' showcases Corey Glover's soaring vocals, delivering urgent messages about environmental and social decay. Tracks like 'History Lesson' and 'Pride' tackle the African-American experience, using samples and lyrics to confront historical injustices and cultural appropriation. 'Type' and 'New Jack Theme' examine stereotypes and the glamourisation of drug dealing, respectively, while 'Someone Like You' reflects on lost innocence in urban landscapes. Musically, the album defies genre constraints, blending hardcore, jazz, soul, and hip-hop elements. 'Love Rears Its Ugly Head' stands out with its jazz blues vibe, while 'Elvis is Dead' features a guest appearance by Little Richard, critiquing the idolisation of Elvis Presley. The album's hopeful moments, such as 'Solace of You' and 'This Is The Life,' urge listeners to embrace life and strive for positive change. Time's Up is a testament to Living Colour's musicianship and social consciousness. Its timeless relevance is bittersweet, highlighting enduring societal issues, yet, it remains a musical marvel and a call to action, urging listeners to reflect, reassess and inspire progress.

Review: Living Colour's third album, Stain, marked a bold shift in musical direction for the NYC quartet. Following the success of their previous albums, the band delved into a heavier, angrier, and less accessible sound. True to form, Living Colour didn't shy away from socially conscious lyrics and thematic track groupings - see titles like 'Go Away,' 'Ignorance Is Bliss' and 'Leave It Alone'. The latter half of Stain is more diverse and experimental, with the industrial-tinged 'Auslander' standing out as one of the stronger cuts. Stain also marks the debut of bassist Doug Wimbish, replacing Muzz Skillings. The seasoned Tackhead veteran's bass is less prominent overall, but shines on the moody highlight 'Nothingness'. Vernon Reid's guitar work, while still spectacular, is more subdued compared to previous releases, demanding closer listening to appreciate its intricacies. Tracks like 'Postman' and 'This Little Pig' feature Reid's intense riffs, complementing the album's darker themes. For many fans of the band, Stain reaches the heights of their previous albums Vivid or Times Up in the way it makes a statement with the evolving times'.

Review: London based rising star and guitar virtuoso Sophie Lloyd has covered an immense amount of ground since graduating with a first-class honours in Popular Music Performance from BIMM Music Institute London. Combining her ludicrous ability with a stringent work ethic and adept understanding of social media marketing, her platform has increased majorly thanks to her epic "shredley" videos as well as covers, originals, tutorials and appearing alongside hip-hop/pop megastar Machine Gun Kelly during his recent UK/EU tour. Finally arriving at her long-gestating debut full-length, the cleverly titled Imposter Syndrome offers up a dream come to sonic life with the help of a rolodex worth of guest vocalists spanning from the incomparable Lzzy Hale of Halestrom to Matt Heafy of metal giants Trivium to Michael Starr of glam absurdists Steel Panther; all doing their utmost to match Lloyd's frenetic mastery, while like any shredder worth their salt knows, the earworm riffs and face-melting solos always shine brightest when in service to well-crafted songs, which the album pumps out with retro-fitted swagger and well-earned confidence.

Review: Nick Lowe returns with Indoor Safari, his first studio album in over a decade, shows his enduring knack for sharp songwriting. Backed by Los Straitjackets, Lowe explores a variety of musical landscapes, infusing each track with his trademark wit and craftsmanship. From the grooving energy of 'Went to a Party' to the tender reflections in 'Blue on Blue' and 'Jet Pac Boomerang,' the album strikes a balance between upbeat tunes and heartfelt ballads. Lowe breathes new life into 60s gems like 'Raincoat in the River' and 'A Quiet Place,' seamlessly blending them with his original compositions. The record also features reimagined versions of earlier songs, including 'Love Starvation' and 'Trombone,' which have evolved through live performances into definitive recordings. The production, led by engineer Alex Hall, creates a cohesive sound despite the album being recorded over five years across different locations. Indoor Safari captures the synergy between Lowe and Los Straitjackets, reflecting their years of collaboration and touring. The album's dynamic energy and thoughtful arrangements demonstrate Lowe's ongoing evolution as an artist, even as he celebrates his 75th birthday. With Indoor Safari, Lowe reaffirms his place as a masterful songwriter, leaving fans hopeful for more music in the future.

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


The French group Lowland Brothers Band offers up more of its signature blend of soul, rock and Americana in what is a superbly liberating and timeless second album, Over The Fence. Their 2021 self-titled debut was led by Nico Duportal on vocals and guitars with Hugo Deviers on percussion and guitar and Max Genouel on bass and keyboards and between them, they uniquely bridged these sounds as well as an earthy take on Americana despite the band originally hailing from the West and North of France. They aim to honour the African-American musical tradition while transporting its essence into new territory and Over The Fence continues this exploration by offering a fresh transatlantic sound that resonates with both past and present influences.

Review: The French group Lowland Brothers Band offers up more of its signature blend of soul, rock and Americana in what is a superbly liberating and timeless second album, Over The Fence. Their 2021 self-titled debut was led by Nico Duportal on vocals and guitars with Hugo Deviers on percussion and guitar and Max Genouel on bass and keyboards and between them, they uniquely bridged these sounds as well as an earthy take on Americana despite the band originally hailing from the West and North of France. They aim to honour the African-American musical tradition while transporting its essence into new territory and Over The Fence continues this exploration by offering a fresh transatlantic sound that resonates with both past and present influences.