Rhino US Vinyl & CDs

Review: A limited-edition version of one of the high-water marks of The Cult's back catalogue. Originally released in 2001, it was their first album in more than six years and showcases the band's return to their signature rock sound while also dabbling with new techniques. It's the only Cult album to feature one of rock's all-time greats - Guns N' Roses' Matt Sorum - on drums. And it's immensely powerful, with 'War (The Process)' and 'Take The Power' leaving you breathless thanks to flashy guitar solos and head banging choruses. Elsewhere, 'Nico' slows things down a bit - a lighter in the air moment perhaps. Overall, it's an epic rock production singing all the right notes by bringing a dash of goth to classic rock.

Review: Japanese Whispers stands as a crucial juncture in The Cure's evolution, capturing a transformative period for the band. Amidst lineup changes and creative exploration, this compilation album bridges their gothic roots with a newfound synth-pop sound. Tracks like 'Let's Go to Bed' and 'The Lovecats' showcase Robert Smith's emerging versatility as a songwriter and producer, marking a departure from their earlier introspective rock. Despite its status as a compilation, Japanese Whispers is a gem often overlooked for its significance. This reissue offers fans a chance to rediscover its brilliance. With its effervescent melodies and cheeky nods to jazz and dance music, Japanese Whispers laid the groundwork for The Cure's future endeavors and remains a testament to their enduring influence.

Review: The Meters are a fine band that embody the famous sound of New Orleans in their work. They are claimed for singles like 'Cissy Strut,' played by Leo Nocentelli, and the celebratory gem 'Hey Pocky A-Way' both of which are classics that make a mark with funk lovers cross the ages. Their fantastic album Now Playing includes all these and many more delights on black ice vinyl courtesy of Rhino. Deep cut and steamy funk tracks like 'Fire On The Bayou', the raw and sleazy 'Just Kissed My Baby' and 'Look-Ka Py Py' all prove they have great versatility to their sound.

Review: In 1993, Rush leaned into a heavier, guitar-driven sound, stripping back the synths of their earlier work. Tracks like 'Animate' open with robust riffs and tight rhythms, setting a confident tone, while 'Stick It Out' adds a grunge-inspired rawness that reflects the shifting rock landscape of the 90s. Geddy Lee's basslines are as commanding as ever, threading through Alex Lifeson's crunching guitar work and Neil Peart's signature, intricate drumming. The production captures a raw energy, showcasing a band comfortable in reinvention without losing their edge.

Review: Rush's Roll The Bones reissue for 2025 brings this 1991 classic back to vinyl with a fresh coat of audio enhancement. Kicking off with the energetic 'Dreamline,' the album effortlessly blends progressive rock with more accessible, radio-friendly sounds. Tracks like 'Bravado' showcase the band's refined songwriting, balancing introspection with their signature musicianship. The title track, 'Roll The Bones,' with its groovy bassline and playful lyrics, remains one of the band's most memorable moments. This LP reissue offers both die-hard fans and newcomers a chance to hear the band's versatile sound in pristine analog form.

Review: As part of Rhino Records' Start Your Ear Off Right series - which consists of reissued versions of classic albums by Dream Theater, Fleetwood Mac, The Ramones, ZZ Top and many more - comes this fabulous new version of Allen Toussaint's Southern Nights. Originally released in 1975, this is a celebrated album, showcasing Toussanint's signature blend of funk, soul and r&b. One of many records to put Touissant on the map as a soul songsmith, and to associate him with the rich musical tradition of New Orleans, the record is well-known and much celebrated for its bold and unexpected use of orchestral arrangements, unusual for New Orleans r&b at the time.