Review: A second joining of forces from two celebrated Chicago acts, blending deep, organic rhythms with a minimalistic electronic pulse. With the novel but logical addition of Jason Stein on bass clarinet, the collaboration stretches even further, pulling together the spiritual fluidity of Natural Information Society and the electronic minimalism of Bitchin Bajas. The first single, 'Clock no Clock,' is a deep dive into hypnotic rhythms, with guimbri grooves intertwining seamlessly with electronic bursts, flutes and organs. The other three tracks are equally compelling, the music unfolding like a living organism, constantly shifting but always grounded. Expansive, intricately woven sonic delights.
Review: Sometimes, Record Store Day releases really do come through, and this is one of them as it unearths extremely rare 1988 demo recordings from alt-rock trailblazers Royal Trux, previously only circulated on a handful of cassettes in 1998. Now available for the first time on wax, the collection captures the raw, unfiltered energy that preceded their breakthrough Twin Infinitives and features early versions of 'Walkin' Machine,' 'Cut You Loose,' 'Gold Dust' and a cover of Neil Young's 'Time Fades Away,' These demos really give you a window into the band's formative chaos and brilliance and highlight the uncompromising vision that made Royal Trux such favourites.
Review: Sacred Mushroom's debut is a blues-rock gem that shows the raw energy and talent of the Cincinnati-based quintet, led by Larry Goshorn and his brother Danny Goshorn. While their name might hint at psychedelia, the album leans heavily into blues traditions, paired with tight arrangements and flashes of rock ingenuity. Originals like 'Catatonic Lover', have an infectious energy and intricate chord progressions reminiscent of Jefferson Airplane, while 'All Good Things Must End' delivers a soulful Chicago blues waltz enhanced by Rusty Work's spirited harmonica. The funky opener, 'I Don't Like You', brims with dynamic harmonies and sharp guitar work that sets the tone for the album. Covers are equally impressive; their rendition of the Kinks' 'I'm Not Like Everybody Else' adds a fresh, acoustic-electric interplay and timeless melodic charm. On the extended 'Lifeline' and the driving 'Mean Old World,' the band channels the electric blues of Fleetwood Mac and John Mayall's Bluesbreakers. Charly's reissue should bring renewed clarity to this overlooked treasure, revealing a band with grit and versatility.
Review: Dynamite Cuts lives up to its name once more by unearthing a deep funk treasure here, and they do the right thing and serve it up for the first time ever on its own 7". Sound Investment's 'Funky Skunk' is a raw and rhythm-heavy rarity previously confined to album-only status. It's bursting with tight grooves, gritty breaks and irresistible energy and is a dream for DJs, collectors and crate-diggers. On the B-side, 'Dirty Man' keeps the heat alive by delivering more deep-fried funk goodness. Both cuts showcase the band's raw musicianship and groove-driven spirit. Authentic funk vibes don't come much better than this.
We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you've provided to them or that they've collected from your use of their services.