New releases today: Coldwave/Synth

Review: To mark their tenth anniversary, Discom presents Return to the Future 1984-1994, a special edition long player celebrating the influential Belgrade synth-pop duo Max & Intro. The compilation features 12 remastered tracks sourced directly from the original master tapes and the collection highlights the group's distinctive blend of melodic synth lines and pop sensibilities that very much shaped the Yugoslav electronic scene. Rare extras include a 1985 interview, full lyrics sheet and previously unseen photographs by Goran Basari?, plus artwork from Max's Poster. This is a wonderful trip back to the future with cold, angular drum rhythms and deadpan vocals.

Review: Thanks to an early 2025 launched exhibition at the Tate Modern, which looks back at the life and work of late, great performance art legend and Minty co-founder Leigh Bowery, Minty have put out this collectible 7" featuring previously unreleased songs. The title of the first track 'This Is Like A Dream' conveys what Bowery would have felt to have held this exhibition and making his dream come true from beyond the grave is a beautiful touch. And the song is a reminder that for all Minty's bizarre performances and sensational avant garde costumes they still backed it up with great music and would have cut through the noise on their songwriting alone. Both tracks feature Bowery, recorded as they were in 1993 and 1994 respectively. True gems finally unearthed.A