Craft US Vinyl & CDs

Review: ***B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition***


Following on from 2002's debut full-length Suicide Notes & Butterfly Kisses, California metalcore heavyweights Atreyu would capitalise on all of their ensuing momentum with 2004's career-high sophomore effort The Curse, which celebrates its 20th anniversary with this long overdue reissue. Boasting two of their biggest singes to date, 'Right Side of the Bed', and 'The Crimson'; both would go on to receive heavy rotation on MTV2 and Fuse, garnering the band a vast new legion of devout followers, most of whom have remained Atreyu faithful to this day. Praised for both their venomous delivery and evident ability to craft arena-sized hooks, the band and specifically this record were instrumental in the mainstream crossover popularity of more melodic, emo-tinged metalcore and post-hardcore throughout the early noughties, while as of 2020 The Curse has been certified Gold in the US with 500,000 copies sold.

Review: Following on from 2002's debut full-length Suicide Notes & Butterfly Kisses, California metalcore heavyweights Atreyu would capitalise on all of their ensuing momentum with 2004's career-high sophomore effort The Curse, which celebrates its 20th anniversary with this long overdue reissue. Boasting two of their biggest singes to date, 'Right Side of the Bed', and 'The Crimson'; both would go on to receive heavy rotation on MTV2 and Fuse, garnering the band a vast new legion of devout followers, most of whom have remained Atreyu faithful to this day. Praised for both their venomous delivery and evident ability to craft arena-sized hooks, the band and specifically this record were instrumental in the mainstream crossover popularity of more melodic, emo-tinged metalcore and post-hardcore throughout the early noughties, while as of 2020 The Curse has been certified Gold in the US with 500,000 copies sold.

Review: Barenaked Ladies' Barenaked for the Holidays is a festive, fun-filled album, now making its debut on vinyl. Released in 2004, this 20-track collection combines the band's original holiday songs like 'Christmas Pics' and 'Green Christmas' with seasonal classics such as 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' and 'Auld Lang Syne.' Known for their witty, playful style, the band delivers lighthearted arrangements full of acoustic warmth, reminiscent of their early album Gordon. The album features a balance of Christmas and Hanukkah tunes, showcasing a variety of influences. Standards like 'Carol of the Bells' are delivered seriously, while 'Jingle Bells' and 'Rudolph" get the goofy, rollicking treatment fans expect. Highlights include a jazzy duet with Sarah McLachlan on "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and a whimsical collaboration with Michael Buble on 'Elf's Lament'. Barenaked for the Holidays is a welcome return to the band's playful, less serious side, creating an enjoyable, family-friendly listen that's perfect for fans who've missed the band's lighter touch in recent years.

Review: The Tony Bennett Bill Evans Album (1975) brings together two legends of modern music. Featuring just vocal and piano, without any additional musicians, the two artists selected the songs and worked out the arrangements for what was to become the first of two albums together. The frankly-Christened The Tony Bennett Bill Evans Album was thus born, and is a stunning introduction to a particular coming-together of two iconic instruments. This new edition is released as part of the OJC Series and is pressed on 180-gram vinyl at RTI, with all-analogue mastering from the original tapes by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio.

Review: Here comes a newly discovered recording by the Bill Evans Trio. It's a live recording that had Eddie Gomez on bass and Eliot Zigmund on drums and was captured on June 20, 1975, at Oil Can Harry's in Vancouver for the radio host Gary Barclay and his CHQM jazz show. The tape has lay lost for almost 50 years but now, after audio restoration by Plangent Processes it sounds as fresh as it ever did. Grammy winning writer, radio host and journalist Neil Tesser has also penned all new liner notes to accompany this special release.

Review: Willie Colon's El Juicio is a seminal piece of salsa history, originally released in 1972 and featuring the hits 'Aguanile', 'PiraNa' and 'Timbalero'. Colon is one of the all-time greats of salsa, and his recordings alongside Hector Lavoe are some of the truly defining works of the genre. El Juicio was the third album from the pair to go gold after 1970's Cosa Nuestra and 1971's La Gran Fuga so you know they were on a roll. This 50th anniversary edition is the perfect opportunity to catch up on an essential document of salsa, for those new to the genre and lifelong fans alike.

Review: Curtis Counce's 1957 album You Get More Bounce With Curtis Counce is not only something of a tongue twister but is also classic jazz record that now gets reissued by Acoustic Sounds who continue to celebrate Contemporary Records. It is a fine showcase of Counces's bass playing skills while his sidemen here Jack Shelton on trumpet, Harold Land on tenor sax, Carl Perkins on piano and Frank Butler on drums do not disappoint either. This newly reissued album has been cut from the original tapes and comes on nice heavyweight vinyl with a tip-on jacket making it a real collectors piece.

Review: A tremendous cache of tunes by Celia Cruz and Johnny Pacheco, two art-nouveau dandies of the Latin salsa and gurachas sound, the latter of which has remained the dominant form of music in Cuba since at least the late 18th Century. The 20th, of course, heard a dramatic reworking of the sound into big band swing, as it would soon be taken up by many a Latin American cojunto (small band/ensemble). Cruz broke into international stardom from 1950, but would not venture beyond the gulf to with Dominican counterpart Johnny Pacheco until 1974, and Tremendo Cache was not their first collaboration either. With right-foot-forward steps and picaresque rufflings, the pair deliver a latently sombre record, despite the snappy energy, with some of the remastered cuts including 'Don't Talk To Me About Love' and 'I Can't Stand It Any More' laying among the more acerbic of titles!

Review: Jazz collectors - specifically those of you with an obsession with the work of sax legend John Coltrane - perk up your ears. Many among you might not yet be aware of The Cats, a collaborative album recorded in synergy between Coltrane, guitarist Kenny Burrell, trumpeter Idrees Sulieman, and pianist Tommy Flanagan, but we wouldn't blame you, because this was one that flew under the radar on its New Jazz release in 1959. Not least, this might have been because it was released when Coltrane had moved onto more one-off release projects, shortly after his more widely publicized contract with Prestige Records ended. Nonetheless, it's cited as a deeply special album, resonant of the slinky sound of postwar New York jazz inasmuch as it is of the archetypal feline form.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Record slightly warped***


John Lee Hooker's Burning Hell is a searing and intense album that captures the raw power and emotion of the blues. Originally released in 1964, the album has been reissued on vinyl and remains n important milestone to Hooker's artistry. The album opens with the title track, a slow-burning blues that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Hooker's vocals are raw and passionate, and his guitar playing is both hypnotic and driving. The album also features several classic blues standards, including 'Baby Please Don't Go' and 'Key to the Highway.' The album is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and amaze listeners today.

Review: John Lee Hooker's Burning Hell is a searing and intense album that captures the raw power and emotion of the blues. Originally released in 1964, the album has been reissued on vinyl and remains n important milestone to Hooker's artistry. The album opens with the title track, a slow-burning blues that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Hooker's vocals are raw and passionate, and his guitar playing is both hypnotic and driving. The album also features several classic blues standards, including 'Baby Please Don't Go' and 'Key to the Highway.' The album is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and amaze listeners today.

Review: Originally recorded in 1966 during his remarkable comeback - he'd been playing since the 20s but was rediscovered by various musicologists and found a new audience at Newport and Philadelphia's folk festivals in 1963 - this album demonstrates why he became a beloved mainstay of the folk revival. Unlike traditional bluesmen, Hurt's style is rooted in melody and intricate fingerpicking, making him a profound influence on the folk musicians of the 60s. His dexterous guitar work, often feeling as if multiple players are involved, pairs seamlessly with his soothing, almost meditative voice. Tracks like 'Pay Day', 'Louis Collins', 'Spike Driver's Blues', and 'Make Me a Pallet on Your Floor' showcase his ability to transform folk and blues traditions into something uniquely personal. He even delivers a rare but successful slide guitar performance on 'Talking Casey'. A particularly stunning moment comes in 'Beulah Land', where his intricate cross-rhythms add new emotional depth to a traditional song. Every track exudes a gentle, comforting presence, as if Hurt himself is sitting beside the listener, easing their troubles. His voice, often described as a balm for the soul, remains as rich and warm as ever, untouched by time. A beautiful, healing and profoundly moving experience that continues to impress more than half a century later.

Review: Craft Latino celebrates Fania Records' 60th anniversary with a reissue of Ismael Rivera's fifth solo album, Traigo de Todo, which was originally released in 1974 on Tico Records. It is an album that showcases Rivera at his best and features iconic tracks like the lively 'El Nazareno' and the rather more sultry 'Que te pasa a ti.' Rivera's smooth, smoky voice is the heart of each track but contrasts perfectly with lively clave rhythms. He often delivers potent messages with his lyrics that touch on empowerment of the social as well as personal kind, always with great immediacy. This special reissue includes 180-gram black vinyl, with lacquers cut from the original tapes by the revered Kevin Gray.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Record slightly warped, creasing to corner of outer sleeve***


Today! is Skip James' second album, originally released in 1966. Now reissued via Craft Recordings over half a century later, this 180-gram LP comes pressed onto heavyweight vinyl with proper retrospective care and attention. An almost entirely solo effort from the blues master, the likes of 'Hard Time Killing Floor Blues' and 'How Long' give atmospheric takes on hard times, amounting to a haunting account of cross-desert drives, driftings, and down-on-one's-luck limit-experiences. This 180-gram LP pressed at QRP includes an obi with notes by Scott Billington, a paper-wrapped jacket and (AAA) lacquers cut from the original master tapes by Matthew Lutthans at The Mastering Lab.

Review: Today! is Skip James' second album, originally released in 1966. Now reissued via Craft Recordings over half a century later, this 180-gram LP comes pressed onto heavyweight vinyl with proper retrospective care and attention. An almost entirely solo effort from the blues master, the likes of 'Hard Time Killing Floor Blues' and 'How Long' give atmospheric takes on hard times, amounting to a haunting account of cross-desert drives, driftings, and down-on-one's-luck limit-experiences. This 180-gram LP pressed at QRP includes an obi with notes by Scott Billington, a paper-wrapped jacket and (AAA) lacquers cut from the original master tapes by Matthew Lutthans at The Mastering Lab.

Review: American jazz singer, guitarist, violinist and songwriter Lonnie Johnson is widely recognised as a pioneer of jazz guitar and jazz violin, at the storied late 1950s cutoff point where blues crossed into "jass". Known as one of the first, if not the first, blues-jazz players to ever play the electric violin, this new retrospective record, documenting his best works with fellow guitarist Elmer Snowden, sadly nonetheless does not feature this remarkable feat, although it does scout an impressive terrain through Johnson's versatility on electric guitar and vocals. Though masterful, these performances still flaunt the make-do character of the Toronto native's musical upbringing. Take 'Blues For Chris', a rather avant-garde domestic tease of a track that only faintly pulses through the blues form, as Johnson janks and picks at the guitar whilst seeming to tell a premortem joke.

Review: Craft Recordings Deluxe Edition of In Session, featuring the legendary collaboration between blues titans Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan, is an important new edition of this meeting of legends. This long-awaited release arrives for the first time on triple vinyl, capturing the historic 1983 performance at CHCH-TV studios in Ontario, Canada, where the two guitarists showcased their extraordinary talents. Initially hesitant to share the stage with Vaughan, King quickly recognised the young guitarist's immense skill, leading to a profound musical dialogue that reverberates throughout this recording. The set includes the audio debut of iconic tracks such as 'Born Under a Bad Sign', 'Texas Flood' and 'I'm Gonna Move to the Outskirts of Town', offering fans an unparalleled listening experience. As they exchange licks, Vaughan breathes new life into King's classic riffs, demonstrating the evolution of their craft. The remastered performance, pressed on high-quality 180-gram vinyl and housed in a gatefold jacket, celebrates a momentous occasion in blues history. This collection not only highlights the dynamic interplay between two guitar legends but also sets a new standard for live blues recordings.

Review: The Spanish word "reventar" means to burst, and Hector Lavoe did just that on the salsa scene with his 1985 album Revento. Known as "El Cantante de los Cantantes" (or 'The Singer of All Singers'), Lavoe had been making waves since his 1967 debut with Willie Colon on 'El Malo.' Revento, which came following the success his 1983 album Vigilante, was Lavoe's striking response to salsa's decline in the face of merengue and romantic ballads. He returned to Colon's trombone sound and collaborated with old friends like Milton Cardona and Jose Mangual and the album, which is packed with diverse rhythms and evocative themes, cemented Lavoe's reputation as one of salsa's most versatile and multifaceted artists as well as extending his influence across the Americas.

Review: Hector Lavoe's De Ti Depende (It's Up to You), originally released in 1976, receives a stellar reissue treatment with this 180g vinyl LP. As Lavoe's second solo album, it marks his debut as a bandleader, making his transition into leading his own orchestra. The album features iconic tracks such as Tite Curet Alonso's 'Periodico de Ayer,' the energising 'Hacha y Machete,' and Perucho Torcat's buoyant 'Vamos a Reir Un Poco.' This remastered edition uses AAA lacquers cut directly from the original master tapes, ensuring superior sound quality. The 180-gram vinyl offers a robust listening experience, while the classic tip-on jacket adds a touch of vintage elegance. This reissue not only honors Lavoe's legacy but also provides a high-fidelity listening experience.

Review: Last Night Blues is Texas blues guitarist and songwriter Lightnin' Hopkins' 1961 album, featuring avant-harmonicist Sonny Terry. The second of three album collaborations, this record flaunts Hopkins and Terry's different yet complementary styles, creating a well-rounded listening experience in pristine stereo. From the title track to the ending 'Conversation Blues', we're served vibes of a quiet recording space, in which Hopkins is provided ample room to muse on his various disappointments and dissatisfactions, both in romance and life. Though this is done in a manner that is convincingly purgatory, putting across the feel of Hopkins "getting on with it", despite the quibbles of life, in a manner that only the best blues music does. Terry's harmonica is like a vague but striking apparition, gliding it at just the right moments yet with just the right dose of when-to-play sensitivity.

Review: Craft Recordings and Jazz Dispensary announce the first-ever vinyl reissue of Johnny Lytle's long-sought-after soul-jazz gem, People & Love. Primarily hailed for his talents on the vibraphone, Lytle led an enviable career, combining his talents with his ability to bandlead, and People & Love was surely among this mode's most matchingly enviable productions. Guides his fellow musicians through five sublime tracks, including extended, soulful covers ('People Make the World Go 'Round,' 'Where Is the Love?') and groovy originals ('Libra', 'Tawhid,' 'Family'). The 1973 session also boasts a stellar line-up of players, including Daahoud Hadi (formerly Butch Cornell) on the electric piano and organ, Bob Cranshaw on the electric bass and harpist Betty Glamann.o

Review: Released in 1971, Ralfi Pagan's self-titled album is a defining moment in Latin Soul, showcasing his talent as both a singer and songwriter on the Fania roster. Highlights include the salsa opener "Mi Chamaco," the Joe Bataan-penned "Just One of Your Kisses," and the classic hit "Make It With You." This reissue features lacquers cut by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio and is pressed on high-quality 180-gram vinyl, ensuring superior sound quality.

Review: Vocalists Ifedayo Gatling, Dennis Bailey, and George Marage aka The Harlem Gospel Travelers explore the full spectrum of influences that shaped them on their latest album. This follow-up to their acclaimed 2022 Look Up! delves into the evolution of gospel music during the mid-1960s which is exactly when local groups began blending soul and funk. Inspired by the Numero Group's cult classic Good God! A Gospel Funk Hymnal and their mentor Eli "Paperboy" Reed, The Harlem Gospel Travelers reinterpret gospel funk with fresh energy from the soulful 'God's Been Good to Me' to the hip-hop-influenced 'Get Involved.' in blending tradition with innovative sounds, the group excels once more here.

Review: Intractable bluegrass from the one and only Tony Rice. At this point, Craft Recordings' taste in reissues hardly warrants scrupulousness; this long out-of-print album documents a lesser-known period in Rice's musical career, after which his predominant bluegrass bent had already been established. With only a small cadre of personnel in tow - Rice on old-time strings and vocals, his brother Wyatt on guitar, and Bob Shumaker and Lim Lloyd helming up mixing and mastering duties - Church Street Blues is proof enough that you don't need much to make an evincing folk album, not least one that evokes the deepest emotes endemic to Louisville, Kentucky. Consisting entirely of reinterpretations of Rice's favourite folk songs, 'Church Street Blues' became an immediate fan favourite and today it remains a classic title.

Review: Alpha, a rare psychedelic-funk gem is set to return to vinyl for the first time in 50 years. Led by singer and keyboardist "Round" Robin Lloyd, The Round Robin Monopoly released the album and it is an eclectic fusion of funk, psychedelic pop, and R&B. Alpha initially flew under the radar but over time, however, the album gained a cult following among crate-diggers and DJs. With its standout track 'Life Is Funky' became a sought-after sample for artists like LL Cool J, Ice-T, Public Enemy, and The Chemical Brothers. The album's cinematic hooks, vibrant horns, and funky guitar riffs evoke the atmosphere of a 70s action film soundtrack, explaining its enduring appeal and influence in the music industry. The reissue of Alpha as part of Jazz Dispensary's Top Shelf series ensures that this underrated masterpiece gets the recognition it deserves. Remastered from the original analogue tapes by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio and pressed on 180-gram vinyl, the album comes in a tip-on jacket replicating the original art.

Review: Patrice Rushen's Prelusion marks her dazzling debut into the jazz world, originally released in 1974 on Prestige Records and now reissued on vinyl here in 2024. Before her r&b fame, Rushen showcased her talents as a jazz pianist on this album, backed by luminaries like Joe Henderson on saxophone. The record effortlessly blends post-bop with elements of jazz fusion, highlighting Rushen's versatility across acoustic and electric keyboard. Her performances on acoustic piano and electric keyboards reflect a strong influence from Herbie Hancock, evident in tracks such as 'Haw-Right Now' and 'Shortie's Portion.' Despite her shift to r&b in 1978, Prelusion stands as an early promise in jazz music.

Review: Live At the Opera House captures Sylvester's legendary 1979 concert at the San Francisco War Memorial Opera House in full, previously available only in heavily edited excerpts. This release features 13 unedited songs and a recording of the mid-concert ceremony where Sylvester received the key to San Francisco, offering over two hours of music. The album package includes newly discovered photographs and liner notes by Joshua Gamson, author of "The Fabulous Sylvester: The Legend, The Music, The Seventies in San Francisco." Sylvester, the undisputed queen of disco, delivers a performance that is both a musical triumph and a cultural milestone. With over 20 top 10 dance hits throughout his career, Sylvester's legend continues to shine brightly with his vast catalog. This live album is an beacon to his enduring influence and the vibrant energy of his music, making it an essential piece for any disco aficionado.

Review: The latest release from Craft Recordings shifts its focus to soul legend Johnnie Taylor, highlighting his deep connection to blues. Known for his Southern soul roots, Taylor's legacy extends far beyond his mainstream hit 'Disco Lady'. Born in Arkansas in 1934, Taylor began his career in gospel before making a name at Stax Records with hits like 'Who's Making Love', which cemented his place in soul history. This new release, One Step From The Blues, dives into Taylor's more blues-focused work, showcasing 12 powerful tracks that capture the raw emotion of heartbreak and betrayal. The album features Taylor's debut Stax single 'I Had a Dream', a sparse and intense standout, along with tracks like 'Cheaper to Keep Her' and a vibrant cover of Sam Cooke's 'That's Where It's At', Each song is delivered with Taylor's unmistakable voice, drawing from both his gospel and blues roots. With the support of top Memphis musicians and insightful new liner notes from journalist Andria Lisle, One Step From The Blues is a brilliant celebration of Taylor's lasting influence, as he marks his 90th birthday this year.

Review: Martina Topley-Bird's Quixotic, originally released in 2003 and now reissued, stands as a bold statement of her artistic independence. While known for her work with Tricky, Topley-Bird emerges from his shadow here, sowing off a versatile and compelling sound. The album opens with the captivating 'Intro,' which sets a unique tone with its a cappella style. 'Need One' follows, blending stoner rock with electronic elements, creating a gritty yet intriguing vibe. Tracks like 'Anything' and 'Soul Food' highlight her ability to fuse acoustic balladry with modern production, offering melodies that linger long after the songs end. Topley-Bird's vocals are a standout throughout, particularly on 'Ragga' and 'Lying,' where her delivery is both powerful and intimate. While Quixotic does explore a range of genres, it feels cohesive, each track contributing to the album's moody atmosphere. For fans of trip-hop, electronica and beyond, Quixotic is an engaging and worthy listen and purchase.