PIAS Vinyl & CDs

Review: It wasn't planned that Stereolab would manage to keep up their 'Switched On' series beyond the compilation's first 1992 release, but now, hey ho, we're onto its fifth edition. Unlike the first volume, the newer editions in the series such as volume 5 here lean more towards rarities, odds and ends; 'Robot Riot', for example, was originally written to accompany a Charles Long sculpture, and 'Yes Sir! I Can Moogie' was originally only released on a specific format for the Wurlitzer jukebox. Every track has a similar backstory, and it's this kind of analogue worship we love so dearly.

Review: Frankfurt's Gregor Tresher returns with his first album in eight years. The 16-track LP offers up his famously dynamic techno sound and rich synth designs with element of dance floor clout underpinning each tune. From his beginnings in Frankfurt's 90s techno scene to collaborations with icons like Depeche Mode, Moby and Extrawelt, Tresher's career has been marked by critically acclaimed releases and False Gods is one of his most ambitious projects yet. It's an accomplished and introspective journey through modern electronic music enriched by collaborations with some notable friends.

Review: The Triffids' Calenture, now available on blue vinyl, marks a pinnacle in the Australian band's career. After the critically acclaimed Born Sandy Devotional and In The Pines, The Triffids joined Island Records to create their most epic album yet, produced by Gil Norton (best known for his work with Pixies and Echo and The Bunnymen). Calenture hones in on the band's creative peak, abandoning the lo-fi sound of In The Pines and returning to the lush, majestic style of Born Sandy Devotional. The album is a rich vast array of sound, brimming with lush arrangements and poignant lyrics, making it arguably their most accessible work - every track resonates with depth and excellent songwriting.

Review: Originally released in 1986, this album showcases The Triffids' exceptional blend of folk, rock, and post-punk. Featuring David McComb's haunting vocals and lush instrumentals, In The Pines takes you on a journey through atmospheric soundscapes. This album, recorded in the Australian outback on a modest budget, highlights the band's raw talent and creativity. Tracks like 'Love and Affection' and the cover of Bill Anderson's 'Once a Day' exhibit their range, from sharp electric guitar riffs to country influences. In the Pines seemed an eccentric career move for The Triffids, who were poised for major success. Retreating to the outback, the band created an album of modest majesty. Haunted by desolation, tracks like the gothic folk waltz of the title track and the intense 'Kathy Knows' stand out. Yet, the album is also filled with camaraderie. Often compared to Bob Dylan and The Band's The Basement Tapes, In the Pines captures The Triffids' infectious joy in making music, solidifying its place as a timeless piece of artistry. In The Pines is perfect for lovers of sweeping, melancholic sounds.

Review: The 1980s was a breakthrough time for underground electronic music. Before restrictive genre definitions saw different modes of expression streamlined, the options were wide open in the lawless surge of post punk and industrial culture. This finely curated compilation from PIAS provides an excellent overview of some of the deadliest operators from this wildly creative time - the names involved are integral to the development of electronic music in the 80s. Throbbing Gristle, DAF, Cabaret Voltaire, Front 242, Nitzer Ebb, Meat Beat Manifesto - just some of the legendary names shown in their best light on this essential collection.

Review: By following in the footsteps of the mighty Giles Martin, who remastered The Beatles' Abbey Road at Abbey Road Studios, Martha Wainwright has achieved a spine-tinglingly great sound in the fabled North London institution on this 20th anniversary remaster. The mixes are so strong that it leaves you free to listen to the majesty of the arrangements and undeniable beauty of her voice, without any pangs that you can get from bad sound design. There are some songwriters who will live on long after they're gone and this Montrealer is clearly one of them. 'Far Away' has gorgeous melodies plump in the song like a pineapple tree ripe for picking. 'Don't Forget' has a bit of a Laura Marling feel and it feels like it pays homage to bluegrass traditions where people would sit around a camp fire and intimately tell their most important life stories, whilst comfortably deflecting from any sadness with an uplifting musical passage. And if anyone was to hum their life story to us, few come higher up the bucket list than Martha Wainwright.

Review: Warhaus' fourth album, Karaoke Moon, marks a bold return for Maarten Devoldere, two years after Ha Ha Heartbreak. Teaming up with producer Jasper Maekelberg, Devoldere spent months crafting this record, exploring over 50 songs he wrote during a two-year period. The result is a stunning and multifaceted work, likely the most adventurous Warhaus release yet. Karaoke Moon cleverly tackles themes of modern masculinity, often with a playful and self-deprecating tone. Devoldere's sharp wit and introspective lyrics take center stage as he wrestles with his inner thoughts, blending dark reflection with humor. Musically, the album covers diverse territoryifrom the sultry nightclub vibes of 'No Surprise' to the moody, Nick Cave-esque atmosphere of 'Zero One Code'. Tracks like 'Hands of a Clock' feature lush orchestration, merging choir and piano for a sweeping conclusion. The album masterfully balances intensity and levity, creating a layered experience that invites repeated listens. With each spin, Karaoke Moon reveals more of its mysterious allure, drawing listeners deeper into Devoldere's intriguing world. It's a thrilling addition to the Warhaus catalog.

Review: White Lies' album Ritual is the sound of the act making great strides to reach new heights. The 2011 album's atmosphere remains consistent with their previous work, but the new ideas come off taking the album to different and unique directions. Lead single 'Bigger Than Us' showcases some anthemic moments and the album continues on different highs from there. Plenty of moments of grandeur can be found here. The reissue campaign by [PIAS] offers fans a chance to explore the album further with rare live tracks and remixes. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their sound, this new vinyl edition offers a great sounding record. This releases comes with a the booklet with stories and rare picture from the time.

Review: The reissue of White Lies' classic album, Ritual offer a rich exploration of the band's compelling sound. Ritual features fan favourites like 'Bigger Than Us' and 'Strangers' along with bonus tracks like Stereolab's remix of 'Is Love.' Whether you're a dedicated fan or new to their music, this deluxe edition provides a great showcase of their strong musicianship. With stories and rare pictures included within the artwork, it's a must-have for enthusiasts seeking a deeper dive into the band's evocative world. This version is released on snappy looking green coloured vinyl.