Warner Vinyl & CDs

Review: Even reading the words All Saints takes us back to simmer times, when pop music seemed far more innocent and pop stars - the female ones at least - wore far more clothes. The British group's self-titled debut album was cooler and smarter than many of their candied peers (Spice Girls, we're looking at you) and blended effortlessly soulful vocals with rich, atmospheric production. From start to finish, the album lays down emotionally charged and honest lyrics. The production is lush yet minimal, allowing the powerful vocals to take centre stage, with classics like 'Never Ever', 'I Know Where It's At' and 'Lady Marmalade ('98 remix)' all still oozing a nice new soul and r&b edge.

Review: The age-defying Cher continues to turn out new music but this new one from Warner revisits her classic It's A Man's World album from 1995. It featured some of the American singer's biggest ever singles such as the easy to sing along to 'Walking in Memphis', plus more like 'One By One', 'Not Enough Love In the World' and 'The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore'. They have all been remastered from the best available sources 30 years after the album made it into the Top 10 in the UK, where it was also certified Gold.

Review: Eric Clapton shares his lifelong passion for the blues on 'Nothing But The Blues', the accompanying album to 'From The Cradle'. Whereas that album was Clapton's main outlet for his blues-oriented '90s hits, 'Nothing But' consists entirely of outtakes and demos. This one features full remixings from Clapton's longtime co-producer, Simon Climie, who has remixed the audio from the original multitrack recordings.

Review: They're the biggest but most hated band on the planet, but that will never stop Coldplay. The band has long been at the top of the pop-rock world and once again Music of the Spheres is likely to keep them there. It is an album rather less wrought with emotional tension than they are known for but still has one eye firmly on the cosmos, like much of their material. In fact, there is a loose concept here that revolves around a distant solar system. The lead single, 'My Universe,' features K-pop kings BTS and is already a number one, and the rest of the tunes are so unashamedly big they will likely follow.

Review: If you're going to re-release a Deftones album with stacks and stacks of bonus material, including remixes by artists ranging from The Cure's Robert Smith to Squarepusher, then White Pony was always going to be a solid choice. First unveiled in 2000, the band's third album marked a major turning point in their career and sound, bringing in far more experimental ideas to the already-alternative metal of their early output.

Two decades on and the original work still holds up to significant scrutiny - the kind of scrutiny bands like Deftones are used to, having created legions of highly obsessed fans during their time on the road and in studios. What makes this revisitation so compelling, though, are the bits and pieces that weren't included with the record first time round, which should keep you busy for quite some time.

Review: Following the release of The Soft Companion in 1999, the Flaming Lips' management team hastily put together a promo CD featuring out-takes, radio edits and alternate versions recorded during the same sessions. Those ultra-limited, hard to find promo CDs have since become in-demand items amongst the band's legion of fans, hence this first ever "official" release on rather fetching silver vinyl. It boasts various "early mixes" and demos by the band themselves, numerous B-sides and a handful of cuts that ended up as bonus cuts on international releases of the wildly popular album.

Review: As is the modern way with all major album birthday milestones, this one now gets a special 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition which means it comes on limited edition pink vinyl. It is a record that collects together four fab fan favourites. The major one is the 24-minute epic 'Psychedelic Hypnotist Daydream (demo)' which takes up all of the a-side and is a truly immerse and heady sonic trip. It is one of the group's most epic ever tunes and also included are 'Duck Dodgers Theme (Duck Dodgers Demo: With Wayne Scratch Vocal),' 'I Know I've Got To Make That Dream The Real Thing (Demo),' and last but not least the lovely melancholy of 'Do You Realize?? (Instrumental).'

Review: No matter your age, you are likely to be a fan of Fleetwood Mac's self-titled and legendary album from 1975. It was their tenth album and second eponymous work after their 1968 debut and is often known by fans as The White Album. The lineup was the first to feature Lindsey Buckingham as guitarist and Stevie Nicks as a vocalist, with Bob Welch having left in 1974. The album hit the numbering spot on the Billboard 200 and gave rise to three top-twenty singles 'Over My Head', 'Rhiannon', and 'Say You Love Me.' This reissue comes on limited edition heavyweight vinyl.

Review: There's almost no point writing about this one - an album that already has legions of disciples waiting to embrace it, with pretty much everyone who knows the names Liam Gallagher and John Squire guaranteed to be interested in what their self-titled LP is about. More so, without even hitting play we all kind of know what it's about, with two of the biggest names to come out of Manchester's 1990s indie rock breeding ground coming together for a record that sounds every bit the sum of its parts. Squire's incredible guitar playing - a centrepiece of The Stone Roses' sound - is incredible as ever, sending riffs soaring over the dilapidated rooftops of North West England and out into the stratosphere. Meanwhile, Gallagher's elongated but gruff vocal style remains steadfast across ten anthems-in-the-making. Powerhouse stuff, but like we said, nobody expected less.

Review: If Dookie was packed full of raging adolescence, last summer highs and formative experiences, Insomniac, Green Day's follow up record, marked the band moving into a new life stage, sonically and lyrically. Exploring their most punk-punk sound yet, a heavier, growlier, blood, sweat and tears-ier take on the immediately arresting, riff-focused formula that first grabbed our attention.

So it stands to reason a quarter century later things still sound powerful and pleasurable. Of course the singles 'Geek Stink Breath', 'Stuck With Me', 'Brain Stew/Jaded' and 'Walking Construction' will be more than familiar even to those who have only heard the band in passing. But the record is packed full of depth and quality elsewhere it arguably far exceeds its older, more widely remembered sibling.

Review: Griff's debut album Vertigo unfolds as a coming-of-age narrative for turbulent times. It captures the dizzying sensation of uncertainty and self-discovery, resonating deeply with listeners through its three-part journey. From introspective lows to exhilarating highs, Griff's artistry shines with each track, embracing her unique blend of introspection and euphoria. With a holistic approach spanning production, fashion, and design, Griff maintains her distinctive style and authenticity. Her latest single, 'Miss Me Too,' explores the paradoxical nature of maturity, accompanied by a poignant video that brings her emotions to life. Throughout, Griff draws on her multicultural upbringing and unconventional path, delivering a debut that is both profound and liberating.

Review: It's difficult to describe to those too young to have been there and to those too old to give a toss, just how rife the anticipation was for the sophomore full-length from nu-metal giants Linkin Park following on from the global success of their multi-platinum selling debut album Hybrid Theory in 2000. Following what felt like an eternal three years, both shortened and lengthened by the bloated remix album Reanimation, 2003's Meteora was nothing short of lightning striking in the same place twice. Debuting at number 1 on the Billboard 200, certified 8xPlatinium and currently ranked as the 8th highest selling album of the 21st century, to call the band's second album a success seems like a very muted understatement when anthems such as 'Somewhere I Belong', 'Faint', and, 'Numb' are still some of the highest charting and most world-renowned metal singles to ever blare out across the airwaves. While musically drifting further away from their nu-metal beginnings with each subsequent project, both Meteora and its predecessor belong to a subset of genre-defining classics that appear to become more embraced and less maligned with age, as the nu-metal subgenre becomes less of a dirty word. It also goes without saying that the incomparable vocal presence of late frontman Chester Bennington as well as his vulnerable and cathartic lyricism take on a far more bleak and oppressive shade with the folly of hindsight.

Review: Following the tragic passing of frontman Chester Bennington in 2017, many presumed the natural end of nu-metal turned alt rock giants Linkin Park. Rattling their fanbase with news of a resurgence with Dead Sara vocalist Emily Armstrong, as well as new drummer Colin Brittain (replacing Rob Bourdain who opted not to join the reunion), From Zero nods to the band's original moniker of Xero while also ushering in this new era for the group, whereas sonically, the band do their best to simultaneously pay credence to their heavier origins whilst naturally progressing towards their newfound vision. Their first full-length since 2017's pop-oriented One More Light may come as a shock to many devout to the Bennington era, but the earnestness in composition sees a retrospective embracing of nu-metal motifs yet modified and extrapolated to embolden this entirely new compositional framework. Attempting to compare to prior releases is naturally par for the course yet won't do much to alter this new musical trajectory, as From Zero swells with the breath of an entirely fresh project that owes humble countenance to the Linkin Park of yesteryear. At 11 tracks clocking on at just over a half-hour, the mission statement is one of succinct brevity and urgency, but whether it truly fills the Bennington shaped void is down to each unique set of ears.

Review: There are few nu-metal bands from the formative late 90s/early 00s scene who achieved the monumental crossover appeal of Linkin Park. From their turntable spinning, frenetic rap-metal beginnings on 2000's global breakout Hybrid Theory, to the refined maturation of their formula on 2003's career-height Meteora, to their Jay-Z collaborative album Collision Course to the shedding of skin and rebranding as a genre-less alternative rock entity on 2007's Minutes To Midnight; as popular and accessible as they were, the band clearly constantly strived for sonic progression. Papercuts collects the highest charting singles from the group over two decades, with the most recent contribution being the previously unreleased 'Friendly Fire' recorded during the sessions for 2017's One More Light, which ultimately serves as the final new piece of recording from the band and vocalist Chester Bennington who would tragically take his own life later that same year. Ignoring the standard sequencing of a greatest hits which often lists the tracks in chronologically released order, here the cuts are compiled to sonically complement each other and reflect the band's ethos rather than a single line commercial pattern. Here is why the anthemic double platinum 'In The End' is juxtaposed with the minimalist rap-rock of MTM banger 'Bleed It Out', or why the previously unreleased fan favourite demo 'QWERTY' lands right between the U2 indebted 'What I've Done' and the original breakout single that started it all 'One Step Closer'.

Review: With the untimely and tragic passing of Chester Bennington in 2017, it was the natural presumption that Californian nu-metal turned alt rock megastars Linkin Park would cease to exist. Surprising their avid fanbase by announcing news of their reformation with Dead Sara vocalist Emily Armstrong, as well as new drummer Colin Brittain (Rob Bourdain opted not to join the reunion), From Zero offers a nod to their original band name Xero whilst simultaneously ushering in their new era. Sonically, the band are doing their utmost to both pay credence to their heavier origins while naturally rerouting towards their newfound vision. Serving as follow up to 2017's pop-oriented and critically panned One More Light, the understandable decision to re-embrace aspects of their nu-metal motifs is commendable, whilst modifying and building upon their past sonics to craft comfortable musical bedrock for the new voice of their band. Comparing to prior albums may be inescapable for diehard fans with the material owing humble countenance to the Linkin Park of yesteryear, while this deluxe edition expands upon the original version's somewhat succinct (or rushed) 11 tracks over 30 minutes with an additional three bonus cuts as well as five live versions.

Review: Dua Lipa's Radical Optimism is reissued here with an alternate to the main cover image and is a bold, vibrant exploration of the transformative power of pop by one of its chief protagonists. Packed with infectious beats and anthemic hooks, the album captures her signature blend of disco, dance and modern pop with a fresh perspective. Lipa's vocals are rich and commanding and drive each track with confidence and emotion. Lyrically, the album is a celebration of resilience and hope as it explores themes of self-love, freedom and empowerment. From shimmering synths to punchy basslines, Radical Optimism is a fearless, uplifting journey that confirms Dua Lipa's place as a leading pop wonder.

Review: The sophomore full-length from New Jersey goth-punks My Chemical Romance was originally released in 2004, changing both the course of their career trajectory as a band but also altering the mainstream acceptance of the goth/emo/alt scene in the 21st century ever since. While it was 2006's third full-length The Black Parade which would cement the band as alt rock legends, Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge was an unprecedented success, fusing the macabre darkness of Misfits and Alkaline Trio with stadium-sized hooks to put the likes of Blink-182 or Green Day to shame. Boasting the pop-punk hit 'I'm Not Okay (I Promise)', whilst the later singles 'Helena' and 'The Ghost Of You' illustrated their expansive yet understated weaving of emo, post-hardcore and punk rock, all elevated by vocalist Gerard Way's uniquely grim lyricism, experience as a graphic novel illustrator and Billy Borgan-style vocal fractures. Selling over 3 million copies in the US alone, even being certified Platinum less than a year after initial release, this semi-modern fully classic punk staple returns with a revitalised deluxe edition, housed with updated artwork and offering an entirely new remix as well as four previously unreleased live recordings.

Review: Pink Floyd's seminal album A Momentary Lapse Of Reason was originally released in 1987 but later record an update and remix by David Gilmour and Andy Jackson for The Later Years Box Set. Some of the original keyboard parts were put back in and new drum tracks were recorded for the project and thus it is said that the band's original creative balance was restored. This version was mixed in 2019 from original master tapes and has been pressed to heavyweight 180g vinyl at half speed. A new 28-page booklet is also included to make this an absolute must for collectors.

Review: Prolific Pink Floyd record producer and engineer James Guthrie once again has his 2018 remix album for the band's 'Animals' reissued, this time on limited LP wax. A five-piece meditation on Floyd's penchant for animalism, Guthrie's reinterpretation yanks the Orwellian structure and themes of the original album and hurls them back into an electronic prog rock prayer, with many of the new versions impressively breaching 10 minutes. In true Floyd fashion, this is window-closed, record-sleeves-on-the-floor, bong-hitting stuff, but with an extra Guthriean darkness lended to it. Clock the pig oinks littering the mix too.

Review: A series of Prince albums are being reissued by Warner, including this one from 1994. By then the legendary funk artist's relationship with his label was hugely stringed and he had recently change his name, for the first of several times to [Love Symbol]. This album was one of a number that the Purple One wrote in a short space of time in order to free himself from his contract with the major label. Despite those circumstances, it is still a standout record that managed to get to Number One in the UK despite a lack of support from Prince himself upon release.

Review: Prince is a name that needs no introduction. The Vault ... Old Friends 4 Sale was originally released in 1999 , a full three years after being submitted to Warner Bros in 1996. Thus, it was recorded in 1994 and 1995 which in many fans' eyes, follows some of the best Prince work when he was known as the symbol. Stylistically, the album has Prince exploring more jazz elements while still remaining clearly a Prince album. Perhaps due to Prince not doing a world tour to support the album and lack of radio friendly singles, the album wasn't the chart success that the label hoped for but to fans it holds a special place in their Prince discography.

Review: Red Hot Chili Peppers have found some good form of late with a new album Unlimited Love earlier in the year now followed by a surprise second new album. Anthony Kiedis and co's Return of the Dream Canteen is a second Rick Rubin-produced album. The group said of the album "We went in search of ourselves. A beautiful bit of chemistry meddling that had befriended us hundreds of times along the way. Once we found that slipstream of sound and vision, we just kept mining." This one sounds like classic Chilis with plenty of funk and big riffs as well as great songwriting.

Review: Attention, fornicators: there's a brand new RHCP album on the horizon, and it's set to be a stonker. 'Unlimited Love' is the band's first recording with guitarist John Frusciante since 2006, and is a welcome return following his various electronic stints and solo projects. Lead single 'Black Summer' heads up the project, fleshing out a more melancholy sound compared to their earlier works, yet still calling attention to Frusciante's iconic surf jamming and Chad Smith's up-down rhythm section. This new album, in their own words, had the band "enrapt".

Review: Mike Skinner is surely deserving of National Treasure status by now, is he not? From mischievous young MC upstart to garage innovator and now the voice of the nation, his journey has been remarkable and as this album shows it isn't done yet. He said in the built-up to it that for the first time in his career, he has allowed himself to be more loose with his lyrics, to say enigmatic things, make odd references and use stranger metaphors that might not always make perfect sense but that feel right in the moment. That makes it a great listen, as well as all the usual catchy hooks and compelling beats.

Review: Talk Talk are true totems of the British synth-pop tradition, and they certainly took an interesting path into experimental realms from the midpoint of their career, but it all began right here. The Party's Over is grandiose in all the best ways, capturing an era of exquisite songwriting which was groundbreaking and traditionally rooted at the same time. Like ABC, Talk Talk knew how to deliver bombast and sentimentality without losing the depth of their work, and now, 40 years on, this spectacular album is being given a reissue on white vinyl.

Review: It's almost Christmas time which of course means we get inundated with plenty of brilliantly seasonal albums to add a touch of sonic warmth and festivities to your parties. This one is a mix of more modern-leaning collections of Christmas sounds from favourites like Ed Sheehan and Kelly Clarkson next to more traditional names like Michael Buble, Otis Redding, Donny Hathaway and The Pogues. It does on four sides of vinyl and really will do the trick to get you in the mood while you over eat and drink too much for a good few weeks this December.

Review: We've had more Neil Young compilations thrown our way over the years than many of us care to remember, but only one really sticks in the mind, and it's this one. Originally released in 1977 and chronicling the period in which Young went from being a simple member of Buffalo Springfield to one of the most heralded North American songwriters of the late century, and comprising work from that band alongside Crosby Stills Nash and Young, it's studded with delights aplenty. From the extended guitar sprawl of 'Down By The Ocean' and 'Cortez The Killer' to poignant balladry like 'After The Goldrush' and 'Helpless', no-one captured the dreams and hopes of the hippie generation in quite the way Young did, and this collection is a magnificent testimony to his most fertile and heartwarming era.

Review: There are rock stars, then there are rock stars. Then there are rock starts like Neil Young who, with or without jumping on the Crazy Horse, will always be considered as a bonafide original and a true icon. Hence the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducting him not once, but twice, thanks to services rendered both solo and in the band Buffalo Springfield.

While every show Young plays is always remembered as a real moment in guitar history, some rank higher than others. His performance at New York's Carnegie Hall on 4th December 1970 sits in the latter category. Covering one of the most celebrated eras in this prized artist's career, it boasts an expansive setlist that includes anthems like 'Down By The River' and 'Sugar Mountain' realised in a pared-back style, with then-unreleased and, in the cases of 'Bad Fog Of Loneliness', 'Old Man', and 'See the Sky About to Rain', unrecorded gems also present and correct.

Review: Neil Young recorded Toast in 2001 and has never previously released it. It is one of his numerous one-off genre-experiment albums and half of the tunes on it made it onto his Are You Passionate? in only slighted revised form. Made with backing from the soul legends Booker T. and the M.G.'s and Young's normal rock band Crazy Horse, there are hard hitting and hard rocking tunes like 'Timberline' next to more R&B leaning cuts and 'Gateway of Love,' a 10-minute guitar workout that is one of the best you will not have heard before.

Review: Recorded live at the Rainbow Theatre in London on November 5, 1973 as part of Young's tour with the Santa Monica Flyers, this key show in Young's career finally gets pressed to vinyl thanks to Warner. The band - comprised of Young on vocals and guitar, Nils Lofgren (lead and rhythm guitar, piano, accordion, vocals), Ben Keith (pedal steel guitar, vocals), Billy Talbot (bass, vocals) and Ralph Molina (drums, vocals) - performed a series of standout shows following the release of their seminal album Tonight's the Night. Featuring too many classics to count, including 'Helpless', 'Don't Be Denied' and 'Cowgirl In The Sand', this show is regularly celebrated for its "completely spontaneous and high-revved performance".

Review: Back in November 1990, fresh off recording Ragged Glory, Neil Young and Crazy Horse took the stage at The Catalyst in Santa Cruz. They played a long and sprawling set of tunes that last three hours and took in songs like 'Love and Only Love' and 'Like a Hurricane' which they managed to hypnotically stretching out for more than ten minutes. The gig was also the debut live airing for 'Danger Bird' which was on the 1975 album Zuma. All of these make it on to the Way Down In The Rust Bucket album as part of Young's on going Performance Series.