BMG US Vinyl & CDs

Review: Early Takes Volume 1 presents an intimate glimpse into George Harrison's creative process, offering early versions and demos of some of his most beloved tracks. Originally released as a companion piece to Martin Scorsese's documentary Living in the Material World, this collection features ten songs, most of which are stripped-down renditions from All Things Must Pass, Living in the Material World, and Thirty Three & 1/3. The minimalist arrangements reveal the raw charm of Harrison's songwriting, allowing his voice and guitar work to shine unadorned. Highlights include acoustic versions of 'My Sweet Lord' and 'All Things Must Pass', which offer a refreshing contrast to Phil Spector's famously lush production. Tracks like 'Run of the Mill' and 'Behind That Locked Door' take on a more personal tone, while Harrison's cover of the Everly Brothers' 'Let It Be Me' adds a new dimension to the classic. Early Takes Volume 1 is a delightful collection that showcases Harrison's deep talent and leaves fans eager for more. Now, reissued on 180 gram vinyl.

Review: HIM's third album, now reissued on vinyl for 2024, remains a standout in their discography. Opening with 'Salt In Our Wounds,' the album showcases a perfect blend of slow build-ups and heavier choruses, featuring a cool solo. 'Heartache Every Moment,' a single, grows on you with its poignant lyrics. 'Lose You Tonight' offers a unique intro with a bass line and intriguing background sounds, while 'In Joy And Sorrow' captivates with soothing guitar riffs and beautiful vocals. 'Pretending' stands out with memorable lyrics and an impressive solo. Although 'Close To The Flame' and 'Beautiful' are slower tracks, they add depth to the album. 'Don't Close Your Heart' and 'Love You Like I Do' close the album on a high note that create a lasting impact on the listeners.

Review: 1984's Powerslave is often referred to by the members of Iron Maiden as the album that made them "really famous", as the fifth full-length from the iconic metal heroes saw them filling out larger arenas than ever previously imagined, while the World Slavery Tour would ultimately lead to their longest time ever out on the road. Featuring the iconic hit single '2 Minutes to Midnight' as well as the galloping 'Aces High', the album is most noteworthy for its epic near fourteen-minute musical re-telling of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's 'Rime of the Ancient Mariner', with the band even confessing to it being their favourite song to play live. This would also serve as the first Maiden record to consist of the same line up as its predecessor (1983's Piece Of Mind), with this stable going on to record two more full-lengths with Somewhere In Time (1986 ) and Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son (1988). Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this reissue lands on limited edition zoetrope picture disc vinyl..

Review: This is surely one of the most classic electronic albums of all time and an oft-referenced inspiration for countless new generations of electronic music producers. It remains a pioneering masterpiece almost 50 years after its original release in 1976 which is why it now gets reissued once more. The album's six interconnected tracks evoke themes of space, nature and environmental fragility which make it as emotionally stirring as it is sonically innovative. Highlights like 'Oxygene Part IV' showcase Jarre's ability to create timeless, hypnotic rhythms that transcend genres and make this a visionary work demonstrating the enduring power of minimalistic yet deeply atmospheric composition. A true landmark in the history of sound design.

Review: Arriving five years after his seminal Oxygene long player, Jean-Michel Jarre's Les Chants Magnetiques again showcases his mastery of synths and his innovative approach to electronic composition. The album's five tracks weave a tapestry of pulsating rhythms, shimmering melodies and experimental textures that reflect Jarre's fascination with the interplay of nature and technology. 'Magnetic Fields Part II' and its infectious sequencer-driven groove became a standout hit while other parts explore ambient and avant-garde realms. Looking back now, the album bridges the gap between the cosmic explorations of Oxygene and Equinoxe and the emerging digital soundscapes of the 80s.

Review: The debut album from Swami & the Bed of Nails, featuring Swami John Reis, All Of This Awaits You is produced by Reis and mixed by Ben Moore, the album originated from the final Hot Snakes writing sessions in 2023, evolving into what Reis calls "a growing tributary" after the passing of his friend Rick Froberg. The nine-song album reflects on this challenging period, offering an immediate blast of joy celebrating life on earth and rock 'n' roll's innocence, blending punk rock with a nostalgic, idealised pursuit of simple pleasures, ridiculing unbridled ambition. The music, a reenactment of elderly teenagers' past lives, promises an exciting journey through punk's lens. Featuring Joe Guevara on piano and synthesizer, Jason Koukounis and Richard Larson on drums, Tommy Kitsos on bass, and Mark Murino on second guitar, the album also includes guest appearances by Rob Crow, Anthony Anzaldo, and Jacob Turnbloom, creating a timeless yet contemporary sound.

Review: Travis returns with their tenth studio album, L.A. Times,their first new music since 2020. Written by Fran Healy in his studio on the edge of Skid Row in Los Angeles, where he has resided for the past decade, the album reflects on the journey that brought the band to this point. Produced by Tony Hoffer, known for his work with Air, Beck, and Phoenix, L.A. Times features ten tracks that delve into personal and introspective themes, reminiscent of Travis' iconic albums like The Man Who and The Invisible Band. The album's cover, featuring distant figures amidst the concrete and glitter of downtown Los Angeles, captures the essence of Travis' enduring journey together. With its evocative imagery and introspective lyrics, L.A. Times promises to be a compelling addition to the band's celebrated discography.