Juno Classics

Review: UK rave icons Altern 8, the duo of Mark Archer and Chris Peat originally released their seminal hardcore album Full-On Mask Hysteria LP back in 1992 which receives a much welcomed reissue courtesy of Bleech. This limited edition, deluxe reissue has been remastered and includes the original 11 tracks plus some new remixes by the likes of KiNK, Luke Vibert, 2 Bad Mice and Shadow Dancer in addition to classics such as "Infiltrate 202", the breakbeat zeitgeist that is "Give It To Baby" and rave anthems like "E-Vapor-8". Following up Infrastructure New York's re-issue of Archer's equally seminal Trackman material last year, we're happy to see renewed interest in this true UK legend. Respect!

Review: Although many associate the Nervous Records imprint to the 90s, the label has never gone anywhere, they've always been here, delivering wave upon wave of high quality house music. Moreover, their traditional 'NY garage' approach has been replicated by many, but surpassed by few; the imprint is still an institution, and there are few quite like it. It's 2016, and they've compiled a double vinyl LP of some of their classics, alongside some new sounds that resonate ever so well with their singular sound. Dubby, floor-centric house is the main formula across every track on here and, while there is a plenty of diversity and creativity in the mix, it all blends ever so well. Kerri Chandler's magnificent "Rain" tune still sounds as hot now as it did back then, there's a sultry Mood II Swing dub of Loni Clark's "Rushin", and plenty of new goodness from the likes of Kim English, Swing Kids, and Nuyorican Soul. Yellow vinyl, too!

Review: There's a bountiful amount of chunkiness to be savoured on this prime reissue of classic Kerri Chandler, reaching back to '98 and the bastion of soul-enriched house music, Nervous Records, to deliver the kind of heat that has made Chandler one of the undisputed greats of the scene. "Just Livin'" positively oozes class with its wigged out synth lines, dense and clattering drums and unmistakable bump, while "Dream Scape" takes things in a softer direction buffeted along by a pumping beat while the melodies stay smooth and sweet on top. "Union City Nights" injects a little Latin passion into proceedings, and "Rain" is of course one of Chandler's most iconic moments, all shuffling hats, delicate chimes and soulful vox. A highly worthy reissue.

Review: You might have heard about this LP..... After a pre-release campaign that took on Hollywood-esque proportions, French pair Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter return as Daft Punk with their fourth studio album Random Access Memories sporting a A-list cast of guests and contributors. Given the input of disco icons Giorgio Moroder and Nile Rogers it's entirely understandable that the overbearing sound on Random Access Memories is one of classic disco with lead single "Get Lucky" a good indicator for what to expect. There's also a smattering of yacht rock within the thirteen track set, whilst the ubiquitous Panda Bear turns up on the midnight stutter funk album highlight "Doin' It Right". Those expecting a return to Daft Punk's Homework heyday will be disappointed but Bangalter and de Homem-Christo are touching forty so the polished, expertly constructed disco direction makes perfect sense.

Review: In line with the timely reappraisal of all things R&S related, the resurgent Apollo have seen the opportunity to bring one of their most celebrated records back for another round. Aphex Twin's ambient recordings mature magnificently with age, sounding ever richer and more emotive as the rest of electronic music continues to play catch up all around. From the gentle breakbeats of "Xtal" to the aquatic techno lure of "Tha", the airy rave of "Pulsewidth" to the heartwrenching composition of "Ageispolis", every track is a perennial example of how far ambient techno could reach even back then. It's just that no-one quite had the arm-span of Richard D. James.

Review: Following 2012's fourth volume that celebrated the existential work of Tim Maia, here we find Luaka Bop exploring the legacy of William Onyeabor. A high chief and Kenyan diplomat who allegedly refuses to discuss his music, he self-released eight albums in the 70s and 80s and these are some of the many highlights. Stretching from the New York-influenced post-punk synth funk of "Good Name" to the most authentic Afro fusion of "Why Go To War", Onyeabor's range not only reflects his clear creative skill, but also the ever-developing international language of music during the fruitful period he was active. Who is William Onyeabor? Press play and find out yourselves...

Review: The result of a diligent digging quest since he heard DJ Klas drop it many years ago, Lyonaisse editor Waxist has finally track down his own copy of Lamar's 1980 disco soul love gem and given it some serious treatment. Extending the unfettered positivity of the original by almost two minutes (with special attention paid to that immense organ solo), it lives up to its name in every possible way. For authenticity's sake he's also included the original B-side "Take Me To New York". Still standing the test of time impeccably after 35 years, one tickle from the lolloping bassline and swooning keys and your dancefloor will be hooked.