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Review: How many Italo disco records leave you saying, "now *this* is where it's at!"? Even many classics miss the chi-spot, but oh do ZYX Music know where to look for such satiate sounds. Originally released in 1986, JD Jaber's Don't Wake Me Up gleams in new citrusy light: the new 12" maxi single recirculates a genius work by Gianluca Bergonzi, whose clattery percs, rattly sweet melodies, and spandex stabs leave our breaths taken. The hard-to-find original versions feature on the A, while the B-side stirs up two new exclusive remixes mouth-to-mouthing new life into the track (and we're not talking CPR): Flemming Dalum's is steeped in retro finesse, while Dstrtd Sngl takes a more modern route, injecting darker textures and punchier dynamics.

Review: Dubliner Noah Skelton brings a deep four-track helter-skelter to Zingiber Audio, topping up a well-travelled catalogue whose earprints are borne in the discographies of Amour, Daydream and Mayak. 'Formentario' and 'Pacer' deepen our hearts with fulsome beats n' bass, carefully constructed to manifest in the listener a looser, undammed destiny. 'It's A Flesh Wound', meanwhile, subtly balances emo-breaks and curious acid jazz, with a popout FM and dancing piano plinks proving particularly pacific, not least when set against *those* chords.

Review: The connection between ZamZam and Feel Free Hi Fi was sparked by Bristolian Neek out in Portland and lead to an immediate bond forged over a shared sound and DIY ethos. Inspired by early digi-era dancehall and UK dub, the duo crafts a sound here that honours tradition while venturing into bold, idiosyncratic territory. It comes on their own Digital Sting label and opens with 'Voyageur' which is a mix of cinematic atmospherics with haunting synths that evoke wild and mythic landscapes. 'Underground' pays tribute to the spirit of DIY underground music and captures the struggle to preserve both nature and the essence of basement gigs in today's shifting cultural landscape.

Review: He might pretty much be cancelled these days but there is no denying the impact Kanye West has had on hip-hop. As recently as last year with Ty Dolla $ign he cooked up 'Vultures 1' which now comes as a special Carnival Edition and is a provocative, genre-blending affair that showcases both artists' strengths and controversies. The production is sonically rich with contributions from top-tier talents like Timbaland and James Blake, and guest appearances from venerated verse men such as Playboi Carti and Travis Scott. Tracks like 'Carnival' stand out with their infectious drum patterns and energetic deliveries even if the lyrical content is not up there with their usual best work. Despite the controversies surrounding West, this album achieved commercial success and topped the US Billboard 200 chart.

Review: Kanye West may be widely criticised and sidelined these days, but he will forever be known as a vital hip-hop pioneer whose influence is undeniable. Back in 2024, he teamed up with Ty Dolla $ign to release Vultures 1 - an album that is bold and genre-defying and reflects the duo's musical prowess and polarising personas. Production is layered and lush, with contributions from heavyweights like Timbaland and James Blake, and standout features from equally big names like Playboi Carti and Travis Scott. Tracks here all shine with lively rhythms and high-energy flows, even if the lyrics don't always hit the mark. Nonetheless, the project topped the Billboard 200 all the same.

Review: An experimental dark folk group from Wurzburg, Germany, Brannten Schnure's 2017 release gets a well-deserved reissue, retaining its distinctive experimental dark folk essence. The duo, Christian Schoppik and Katie Rich, crafts immersive soundscapes where traditional instruments, eerie vocals, and looped, crackling recordings converge. Tracks like 'Das Jungfrauliche Ohr' and 'Die Milchlinse' set the tone, blending atonal elements with haunting, dreamlike atmospheres. 'Die Geschandete Venus' takes a darker, more melancholic turn, with its slow, creeping build. On the B-side, tracks such as 'Der Kleinere Mit Gefleckten Linien Umgebene Papillonsflugel' offer intricate compositions that evoke a surreal, almost cinematic quality. With influences from Nico and Novy Svet, their music pours out and creates a world that's both unsettling and strangely beautiful.

Review: The Mighty Bop is the duo of French house legend and pop-dance favourite Bob Sinclar and techno veteran DJ Yellow. This reissue marks the 30th anniversary of their debut album La Vague Sensorielle which was at the time a groundbreaking fusion of acid jazz and trip-hop. It has since become a favourite with new generations of diggers and has a real rhythmic depth that still cuts through three decades later. Standout tracks like 'Freestyle Linguistique' featuring EJM and the hypnotic 'Infrarouge' are well worthy of plays in a modern context and will let new audiences rediscover a classic that helped shape the sound of the 90s.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Box opened, product in perfect working order***


The smallest speaker in Yamaha's range, the compact MS101-4 sits happily on even the most cramped desktop or attaches to a mic stand for versatile monitoring anywhere.

Supplier's Notes:
The industry standard in compact monitors

Yamaha MS101-4: The de facto standard for compact monitoring in a simple form

The standard model in Yamaha's range of desktop utiility powered monitors, the MS101-4 offers portability in a simple, compact design, with comprehensive functions for outstanding usability. The MS101-4 comes with a 3/8-16 threaded female mounting for direct attachment to a Euro microphone stand. Optional accessories can also be added for use in a wide range of applications.

A compact, convenient approach to high-quality monitoring anywhere

Compatible with both line and mic inputs, the MS101-4 offers the flexibility needed for temporary or permanent use in applications requiring simple, compact monitors.

Simple, portable, durable design

Yamaha Powered Monitor Speaker MS101-4: front and rear

With the controls (power switch, volume and tone controls) and the combo jack input on the lower front panel, you'll find the MS101-4 is easy to operate. The sturdy metal grill offers complete protection for the four-inch cone driver, while the rear panel is equipped with one stereo mini and a TRS Phone input connector, along with an output jack. An AC inlet for a removeable power cord provides excellent portability. The bass reflex port is also located on the rear surface, resulting in a more compact chassis.

MS101-4 Powered Monitor Speaker

The standard model in our range of desktop utiility powered monitors, the MS101-4 offers portability in a simple, compact design, with comprehensive functions for outstanding usability.

30W of amplifier power provides clean, high output sound
Redesigned enclosure for an even lower profile
Combo Input jack accepts both XLR and 1/4" connectors
Directly mountable on Euro microphone stands (optional mic stand adaptor BMS-10A is available for adjusting tilt angle)

General specifications

Speaker type: Full range Powered Speaker, Bass-reflex Type
Frequency range (-10dB): 77 Hz-20 kHz
Maximum output level (1m; on axis): 115 dB SPL *1
Components: LF-HF 4" Cone, 1" Voice coil, Ferrite magnet
Dimensions: W: 142 mm, H: 196 mm, D: 187 mm
Net weight: 2.1 kg (4.6 lbs)
Flying and mounting hardware Screw threads (bottom): 2 x M5 depth 11 mm pitch 60 mm (for 2, M5 x 6-10 mm screws), 1 x 3/8" depth 12 mm (for 1 x 3/8" x 9-11 mm screw)
Amplifier class: Class-D
Power rating: Dynamic: 30 W
Continuous: 20 W
Cooling: Natural cooling (no fan)
I/O Connectors: Mic Input: [Front] INPUT: Combo, [Rear] INPUT LINE 1: Stereo Mini, INPUT LINE 2: Phone (TRS)
Line Out: 1 x Phone (TRS)
AC: 1 x AC inlet
Input impedance: [Front] INPUT: LINE=5.4 kO / MIC= 5.4 kO, [Rear] INPUT LINE 1,2: 10 kO
Input sensitivity: [Front] INPUT: LINE=-10 dBu / MIC=-40 dBu, [Rear] INPUT LINE 1, 2: -10 dBu (VOLUME: Maximum)
Input Level: [Front] INPUT: LINE=+5 dBu / MIC=-25 dBu, [Rear] INPUT LINE 1, 2: +5 dBu (Nominal Input Level / VOLUME: Center), [Front] INPUT: LINE=+20 dBu / MIC=-10 dBu, [Rear] INPUT LINE 1, 2: +20 dBu (Maximum Input Level)
Others: Controls: 1 x VOLUME, 1 x LOW CONTROL, 1 x HIGH CONTROL, POWER
Indicators POWER (Green LED)
Power consumption: 1/8 Power Consumption: 10 W, Idle Power Consumption: 3 W
Power requirements: 100 V - 240 V, 50/60 Hz
Options: Mic stand adaptor BMS-10A, Free-angle clamp BAS-10, Wall mounting bracket BWS20-190, Ceiling bracket BCS20-150 / BCS20-210

Review: In a smooth flying saucered descent, Solara Melfera continues the WSNWG: Back to Zero journey, adding a new dimension to the label's evolving sound. This compilation unites eight carefully selected tracks curated by German producer and DJ Rodhad, fusing nighttime prowler moods and subtle celestials. With a cover artwork bathed in golden, sunlit tones, the music has an eclipsing mood, juggling strong shades of light and dark. Kicking off with Ignez' 'Passion Overdrive', we're met with a brooding techno number with overdubbed lyrics by the artist, recounting the artist's rather libidinally charged dream from the previous night.

Review: Few tracks capture the icy allure of early 80s electronic experimentation quite like this underground classic. Originally released in 1981, this Swiss post-punk/coldwave classic has transcended its era, becoming a cult favorite across underground scenes and DJ sets of various genres. Now reissued on limited blue vinyl, its influence remains undeniable. 'Eisbaer' is a track that bridges stark, minimalist electronics with the raw energy of post-punk. The hypnotic bassline and cold, robotic drum programming lay a foundation for jagged guitar stabs and eerie synth flourishes, creating an urgent, mechanical pulse. The disaffected, almost mantra-like vocalsideclaring "Ich mochte ein Eisbar sein" ("I want to be a polar bear")iheighten its existential detachment. Echoes of Throbbing Gristle's industrial edge and Cabaret Voltaire's abstract electronics blend seamlessly with the emerging synth-pop movement, helping to push new wave into more danceable, electronic territory. Side B's 'Film 2' takes a more abrasive approach, a pounding, near-industrial instrumental that pulses with motorik intensity. 'Ich Lieb Sie' is more restrained but equally unsettling, its sparse arrangement and ghostly atmosphere reinforcing Grauzone's unique ability to evoke emotion through minimalism. Timeless and still chillingly modern, this reissue ensures that Eisbar and its B-sides continue to inspire. A crucial document of coldwave's evolution, reaffirming why this track remains a DJ favourite decades later.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Polish sensation Charlie delivers the instrumental mix of title track, 'Spacewoman,' on Wrong Era. It is a real gem that features powerful percussion and mesmerising, infectious arpeggios that stay true to her authentic Proto-Italo style. Charlie's mysterious vocals craft an esoteric narrative with lyrics like "I fly where infinity expands" propelling listeners deeper into her universe and the euphoric chorus offers a transcendental experience that only adds to the interstellar journey.

Review: Blending hi-NRG and Latin cumbia, Combo Chimbita present a brand new single for Wonderwheel Recordings, 'Dimelo'. Described as an internal dialogue - a sonic representation of what it feels and sounds like to choose yourself - the refrain "Cuando por fin yo me elegi" is heard repeatedly throughout the track, as self-selection is maximised, contra the impossibility of saving others before oneself. The band's Carolina Oliveros says of the song, "however much you love someone, you can't force them to love yourself in the same way - that is love you have to give yourself." The Busy Twist remixes the idea, self-caring through salvos of oily guitar and toe-tapping woodblock shot, hitting like a health kick.

Review: Glasgow's Rebecca Vasmant is back with a sophomore album that comes through a new partnership between Women In Jazz, New Soil, and Marathon Music Group. Building on the acclaim of With Love From Glasgow, the bold Who We Are Becoming is another expansive vision for contemporary jazz in which Vasmant leads a 25-piece ensemble. Across the music, she explores themes of identity, growth and femininity and brings traditional jazz tropes up to date with modern textures. Featuring returning collaborators and new voices like Repeat Beat Poet and flautist GOkU, this record marks the first time Vasmant has included her own vocals, which deepens the personal resonance of the powerful sounds.

Notes: Inside the brand new issue:

aya: New album hexed! explores sobriety and neurodiversity through radical tunings and transformed instruments. By Chal Ravens

Satch Hoyt: The one-time Burnt Sugar member's Un-Muting project opens museum archives of stolen instruments. By Francis Gooding

Ailie Ormston: The Glasgow composer moves away from the conservatoire to conduct the sounds of the city. By Abi Bliss

Joke Lanz: At 60 years old the Swiss improvisor still takes a punk approach to the turntable. By Daniel Spicer

Bios Contrast: Kolkata musician Nilotpal Das cooks up the concept of brahmancore. By Misha Farrant

Laura Cocks: Chamber music is the site of connection for the flautist. By Stewart Smith

MIC: Grime provides the setting for sci-fi storytelling in the hands of the London MC. By Lucy Thraves

John King: The composer playing the blues for Palestine's lost communities. By Kurt Gottschalk

Tran Duy Uc: The Vietnamese multidisciplinary artist curates the self-scape. By Daryl Worthington

Invisible Jukebox: Alvin Curran: Will the Musica Elettronica Viva member read maritime rites over The Wire's mystery record selection? Tested by Julian Cowley

Unlimited Editions: Meticulous design and sonics dovetail in New York new music label Greyfade. By Philip Watson

The Inner Sleeve: Seymour Wright on Anne Gillis's Lxgrin

Against The Grain: VAN magazine Editor Hugh Morris can't stand that jazzy sensation

Epiphanies: Surgeon gets all cut up by William S Burroughs and Brion Gysin

Soundcheck: Actress, Ahmed Ag Kaedy & Will Guthrie, Annie A, Peter Baumann, Lea Bertucci & Olivia Block, Biollante, Daniel Blumberg, Pierre Borel, Brutal Shift, Brutal Shift/Solar Yolk, Florence Cats, CBZK, Circuit Des Yeux, Anla Courtis Ja Lehtisalo, Kara-Lis Coverdale, Holger Czukay, Bryn Davis, Dead Pioneers, Divide And Dissolve, Dromedaries x Alexoteric, Dushume, Eska, Bryan Ferry & Amelia Barratt, The Great Learning Orchestra, Hieroglyphic Being, History Dog, William Hooker, William Hooker with David S Ware & Alan Braufman, HxH, Infinity Knives & Brian Ennals, Chris Jonas, Fergus Jones, Kid Spatula, Kinski, Das Koolies, Ed Kuepper & Jim White, Laibach, The Steve Lehman Trio & Mark Turner, Mclusky, Me, Claudius, Roger Clark Miller, Hedvig Mollestad Trio, Nahja Mora, Natural Information Society & Bitchin Bajas, Neptunian Maximalism, The Orchestra Of Futurist Noise Intoners Directed by Luciano Chessa, Anthony Pateras, Lucy Railton, Lee Ranaldo & Michael Vallera, Gryphon Rue, Laila Sakini, Kim Salmon & Masami Kawaguchi, Klaus Schulze, Slow Reading Club & Charlie Usher, Ches Smith, Sumac & Moor Mother, Neil Tennant/Mark Springer/Sacconi String Quartet, Throwing Muses, Penelope Trappes, William Tyler, Use Knife, Whatever The Weather, Various Soon I'll Run Out Of Air

The Columns: Avant Rock by Antonio Poscic; Critical Beats by Joe Muggs; Dub & Reggae by Steve Barker; Electronics by Leah Kardos; Global by Francis Gooding; Hiphop & R&B by Tim Fish; Jazz & Improv by Phil Freeman; Noise, Industrial & Beyond by Emily Pothast; Size Matters by Byron Coley

The Boomerang: Paul Bley, Paul Bley Trio, Stanley Cowell, The Creation, Q Lazzarus, Kali Malone, Pentangle, Steve Reich, Charlie Rouse, Royal Trux, Pharoah Sanders, Charles Tolliver's Music Inc, Various Strata-East: The Legacy Begins

Print Run: Hating Jazz: A History Of Its Disparagement, Mockery, And Other Forms Of Abuse by Andrew S Berish; Mood Machine: The Rise Of Spotify And The Cost Of The Perfect Playlist by Liz Pelly; Black Mystery School Pianists And Other Writings by Matthew Shipp; Erik Satie Three Piece Suite by Ian Penman; Small Town Joy: From Glam Rock To Hyperpop: How Queer Music Changed The Sound Of Scotland by Carrie Marshall; Alice Coltrane, Monument Eternal edited by Erin Christoval; The Sound Of Utopia: Musicians In The Time Of Stalin by Michel Krielaars (translated by Jonathan Reeder); Dmitry Shostakovich And Music For Stalinist Cinema (1936-1953) by Joan Titus; Blank Forms 10: Alien Roots: Eliane Radigue edited by Lawrence Kumpf & Charles Curtis

On Screen: Dietmar Post Mona Mur In Conversation; Jean-Cosme Delaloye Desire: The Carl Craig Story; Marie Losier Peaches Goes Bananas

On Location: Jules Reidy + Nina Garcia + Adam Soper, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Hekla + Dave Welder, London, UK; Sachiko M & Annette Krebs + Chris Pitsiokos & Axel Dorner, Berlin, Germany; Mamboat, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Come Back, London, UK; Borealis, Bergen, Norway; Ghais Guevara, London, UK; Sonics 25, Hastings, UK; 160 Unity: RP Boo + DJ Spinn + Kode9 + Big Dope P, London, UK; Experiments in Opera, New York, US; CTM, Berlin, Germany

On Site: Joy Boy, A Tribute To Julius Eastman, Aalst, Belgium; Leigh Bowery!, London, UK; Outlaws: Fashion Renegades Of 80s London, London, UK