Ministry Of Sound Vinyl & CDs

Review: Doja Cat went big on her recent album Planet Her, which was the qui follow up to 2019's well received Hot Pink. It came on Ministry of Sound and saw the American singer, rapper, producer and songwriter collaborate with superstars such as The Weeknd, Ariana Grande, Young Thug, SZA and others. This 19 track deluxe version has them all and made for a thrilling ride that showcased her eclectic style, chaotic nature and kaleidoscope take on pop. Across the record Doja raps with flair, switches up her style along the way and manages to range from anguish to soul and back.

Review: In his recent book Major Labels, a history of popular music in seven genres, Kelefa Sanneh argues that pop is now so free of defined boundaries that's it's "barely a genre at all". Listening to LA rapper, singer and producer Doja Cat's third album, it's hard to disagree. Polished, professional and ear-catching, Planet Her is a hugely enjoyable romp whose hybrid, kaleidoscopic constructions variously synthesize elements of R&B, synth0heavy Afro-pop, dancehall, hip-hop, hyperpop, trap, 21st century bass music and much more besides. Throw in guest spots from the likes of Young Thug, Ariana Grande and JD, and you have an on-point pop album that will resonate far longer than most similarly framed sets.

Review: Back in 2006, Jason Herd and Jon Fitz scored a colossal club hit with 'Just Can't Get Enough', a funky and chunky house number featuring impassioned lead vocals by Abigail Bailey and a prominent sample from Kariya's late-80s dancefloor classic 'Let Me Love You For Tonight'. 18 years on, the track has been given a makeover. Hannah Wants steps up first, retaining the vocals and Kariya synth samples while combining it with a beefy, tooled-up house groove, before Jakob reaches for mid-90s organ bass, a grandiose breakdown and even bigger builds. Flip for two reworks by Herd and Fitz - a rushing, peak-time friendly, radio-ready big room house re-wire, and a bouncier, piano-sporting 'Sunrise' revision.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***

After hitting on something of a formula with 'Only Human', this A-side banger is further proof that Four Tet is onto a rich vein of side hustle action with his KH alter ego. 'Looking At Your Pager' is a cheeky slice of '90s throwback-ism in jackin' house form, and in a heuristically Hebden-esque style, makes deft use of the hilariously autotuned opening verse heard in 3LW's girl band hit, 'No More'. It's a very clever tune; just as no-one uses pagers anymore, nor do people use the kind of dubstep wobbles heard underneath the track's clacking groove... Mr. KH makes them cool again!

Review: After hitting on something of a formula with 'Only Human', this A-side banger is further proof that Four Tet is onto a rich vein of side hustle action with his KH alter ego. 'Looking At Your Pager' is a cheeky slice of '90s throwback-ism in jackin' house form, and in a heuristically Hebden-esque style, makes deft use of the hilariously autotuned opening verse heard in 3LW's girl band hit, 'No More'. It's a very clever tune; just as no-one uses pagers anymore, nor do people use the kind of dubstep wobbles heard underneath the track's clacking groove... Mr. KH makes them cool again!

Review: The Greatest Love is a fourth studio album from London Grammar, their first since October 2021's Californian Soil and one that comes 11 years after their groundbreaking debut album If You Wait went double Platinum. The band say it is a celebration of artistic freedom and comes after a period of chance in which some of them have had children, they have toured the world and sold tree million albums, had two number one hits and picked dup accolades like the Ivor Novello award and BRIT nominations. It embodies newfound confidence and creative liberation amidst personal challenges and industry scrutiny, and features a boundary-pushing sound that blends electronica with pop.

Review: London Grammar's The Greatest Love is a fine showcase of the band's signature ethereal sound. Hannah Reid's hauntingly beautiful vocals, paired with the band's atmospheric instrumentals, create an emotional and immersive vibe as the album explores themes of love, loss, and resilience. Standout tracks include the likes 'The Greatest Love' and 'Heavenly' which bring lyrical depth and musical sophistication. Each song is meticulously crafted, blending lush melodies with poignant lyrics, which helps make The Greatest Love a compelling addition to London Grammar's discography and a must-listen for fans of evocative and soulful music.

Review: This new long player from Ministry of Sound is their contribution to Record Store Day 2024 and it takes the form of a bunch of mixes of London Grammar's various different tunes. Global house outfit Camelphat feature a couple of times with some nicely emotive and upbeat sounds, 'Strong' gets a jump up drum & bass rework from High Contrast, Henrick Schwarz brings his emo house touch to 'Wasting My Young Years', MK adds some dance-pop sheen to 'Oh Woman Oh Man' and Dennis Ferrer remixes 'Sights' into a tense tech cut with snappy drums.

Review: London Grammar's fourth studio album, The Greatest Love, arrives as a comprehensive deluxe package, including a 20-page hardcover book, 12" vinyl, 10" vinyl with bonus tracks and CD. The album marks a significant evolution for the band, reflecting their journey over eleven years since their debut If You Wait. Known for their ethereal vocals and emotive lyrics, the band has maintained their distinct sound while embracing a newfound creative freedom. With lead single 'House' symbolising empowerment, the album blends electronica with pop, showcasing tracks like 'Fakest Bitch,' which highlights Hannah Reid's powerful vocals and raw, introspective lyrics. The release follows their successful Californian Soil and notable touring achievements, including performances with Coldplay and record-breaking UK tour sales. The Greatest Love captures the band's shift from relentless touring to prioritising art and personal growth, a reflection of their expanded confidence and evolving musical approach. It's a celebration of their artistic journey and commitment to music, balancing personal and creative fulfillment.

Review: The Magician and A-Trak join up once more and this time add in Griff Clawson for their latest new single, 'Love On You.' It is the sort of big, inescapable record that radiates good energy and positive feels from the off. The expansive rhythm section comes with some heartfelt piano keys and makes an indelible impact. This collab came together when these artists made mates in Oasis Wynwood during this year's Miami Music Week and it finds them bring their considerable know how into one potent new cut.

Review: Ministry of Sound's latest double CD delivers a vibrant collection of this year's biggest dance anthems alongside fresh tracks from emerging talent. Featuring chart-topping hits from Calvin Harris & Ellie Goulding, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and Oliver Heldens, the compilation is packed with infectious melodies and powerhouse collaborations. With contributions from the likes of Swedish House Mafia, Clean Bandit, Becky Hill and Rudimental, it offers an exciting mix of vocal-driven hits and deep, danceable beats. On the second CD, you'll find bangers from Dom Dolla, Gorgon City, TSHA and Eats Everything, as well as remixes from Solomun and Pete Tong. The perfect soundtrack to dance through the year's most unforgettable moments.