Back catalogue: Post Rock/Experimental

Review: Temporal Drift drop the never-before-heard master tapes from Japanese cult legends Les Rallizes Denudes' legendary second comeback gig in 1993, after an unexpected slew of CD albums dropped in 1991. The band hadn't performed since the 80s, and came back for blood. Eyewitness accounts of the gig said that the abrasive squall of Takashi Mizutani and Katsuhiko Ishii's guitars that night had concertgoers pacing for the lobby to seek respite from the sonic furnace. After 30 years in storage, the multi-tracked recordings from the performance fell into the hands of former band member Makoto Kubota, who lovingly remastered them to give listeners a sense of the transcendental roar which The Rallizes unleashed that night. Highlights include the braindead rockabilly shuffle of 'Eternally now', and the steady, diesel-powered chug of 'Darkness Returns 2', which, like all other tracks on the album, is eventually pierced by the screeching peal of Mizutani's telecaster, which eats the whole mix up in true Rallizes style. A much mythologised live performance by a much mythologised band. Essential!

Review: Les Rallizes Denudes' Yaneura Oct 80 is an almost ritualistic performance that blends dark, nocturnal atmospheres with raw, passionate energy. The addition of guitarist Fujio Yamaguchi brought a bluesy edge, creating a dense, dissonant soundscape that feels both lethargic and hypnotic. This release marks a significant moment in the band's history, showcasing a unique lineup that left a lasting impact on fans. The tight rhythm section provides a solid foundation for the intense interplay between Mizutani and Fujio, resulting in a surreal and ethereal sonic experience. Makoto Kubota's meticulous mixing and mastering ensure that this performance is preserved in its raw, psychedelic glory, making the world of Les Rallizes Denudes an intriguing piece of Japanese music history.

Review: Les Rallizes Denudes' live recording from Yaneura, September 1980, brings their raw, avant-garde sound into sharp focus. The CD format captures every detail of the distorted guitars, hypnotic basslines, and feedback-soaked atmospheres that defined their performances. Tracks such as 'Enter the Mirror' stretch into lengthy, chaotic soundscapes, blending haunting vocals with relentless, repetitive rhythms. The balance of noise and melody is uncompromising, creating a listening experience that feels as challenging as it is immersive. A rare opportunity to delve into the intensity of the band's live presence.