New releases today: Disco/Nu-Disco

Review: Manchester mavericks A Certain Ratio have been on a rare run of form of late, with 2023's 1982 counting as one of their most vibrant and endlessly entertaining albums for decades. Of course, all their albums are of a consistent quality, but It All Comes Down To This genuinely crackles with energy. From the word go, the veteran band's inherent funkiness is present, but this time it comes cloaked in fuzzy funk-rock guitar riffs, acid-fried effects, and vocals that are amongst the most forthright they've committed to wax (or, in this case, CD). In many ways, it is - as the band and producer/Sopeedy Wunderground boss Dan Carey intended - a 'back to basics' sound that focuses on the key aspects of ACR's sound. When those 'basics' are so strong, it's no surprise that the results are this impressive.

Review: Disco Discharge: Classic Disco Deluxe Edition, offers a refreshing take on disco's late 70s and early 80s heyday. Unlike typical compilations, it features both classics and hidden gems, showcasing the genre's diversity. From unlikely DJ favorites like Manhattan Transfer's 'Twilight Zone/Twilight Tone' to well-known hits like Cheryl Lynn's 'Got to Be Real' the collection caters to seasoned disco enthusiasts. Tracks like Change's 'Paradise' sit alongside lesser-known gems like 'It Burns Me Up,' providing a deeper dive into disco's rich history. This double-disc set serves as a reminder of disco's enduring influence and offers a treat for those looking beyond the mainstream hits.

Review: Demon's 'Disco Discharge' series, originally released as 2CD collections from 2009 to 2012, is back in print. These compilations of extended disco originals were curated by the enigmatic "MrPinks" and featured detailed sleeve notes by disco expert Alan Jones. They have remained highly sought-after and here the revival begins with 'Disco Fever USA' in deluxe 2CD gatefold packaging. The album highlights 20 American Disco classics, including tracks from Fern Kinney, Gloria Gaynor, and Boys Town Gang. Notable rarities like an instrumental version of Earth, Wind & Fire's 'Boogie Wonderland' and Dennis Parker's 'Like An Eagle' are also featured, making it a must-have for disco heads.

Review: For their latest deep dive into Italo-disco history, ZYX Records have enlisted the help of Guiseppe "Joey" Mauro - an Italian producer, songwriter and keyboardist whose career stretches right back to 1984. His "Italo-disco legends" selection is heavy on his own work - no bad thing given his credentials - and contains a wealth of material that has never appeared on CD before. Highlights are plentiful, with our picks including Mauro and Ventura's sparkling and uplifting 'You & I', Italowarriors' throbbing and colourful crew cut, 'The Warrior (120 Italo Version)', the bubbly cheeriness of 'Crazy (Classic Mix Version)' by Malcolm & The Bad Girls, and the effortless Italo funkiness of Raf Coney's 'Horsepower'.