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Review: The reissue of Pete Rock & CL Smooth's Main Ingredient reminds hip-hop heads what a timeless masterpiece it really is. The record has a sure place in hip-hop history and has since it was originally released in 1994. The album showcases the duo's famous and unparalleled chemistry, with Pete Rock's soulful production and CL Smooth's smooth lyricism blending seamlessly on tracks that continue to resonate with listeners and very much capture the essence of 90s hip-hop while still remaining relevant today. 'Sun Won't Come Out', 'The Main Ingredient', and 'Get On The Mic' all demand to be played loud and proud

Review: Digwah keeps it tough on this next drop on their own self-titled label. It's a ninth outing and in the time it has taken for those to come out, increasing numbers of people have been catching on to the label's work and making it a 'must check' in their mental lists. This one opens up with 'Couldnt Hate You' which has some Ian Brown vocals samples stitched into a glitchy and menacing beat. 'Open Ended' is just as twitchy and anxious with steely drums and brain frying synths all working hard to fire every synapse in your brain. Effective stuff.

Review: Roberto Zanetti was also known as Savage and was a producer who was beloved among Italo disco enthusiasts. His work in the 80s helped to define the genre and this is one of the tracks he turned out that had a particular resonance. The outstanding production from 1987 is as likely to captivate dancefloors across Europe now as it was back then. It became a secret weapon for many DJs the first time around and here makes a special return with a reissue that features a bonus remix by Alex "A" and Patrick Delay, which was originally released in 1988 in Hong Kong.

Review: Vintage Pleasure Boutique is an excellently named label out of Poland that is fast approaching its 20th releases. This latest 12" is another dazzling Italo disco gem that arrives on translucent yellow vinyl. Claudia T.'s 'Fatal Destination' arrived originally back in 1989 at the height of the genre's popularity and very much takes you back there with its cold but compelling synth sounds and crashing drums, all very reminiscent of the era. The soaring vocals brings the glorious hook next to zippy lead synths. This was a bit hit back in the day and is sure to win over just as many global dancers second time around.

Review: West Coast rave scene specialists Michael Kandel and Tom Chasteen are Voodoo Transmission and they have one again plunged deep in their vaults to serve up this reissue EP. One side boasts two dynamic dancefloor renditions that blend rhythmic layers with dubbed-out effects - 'Crazy Jane' channels Debbie Harry's 'Heart of Glass' on LSD. The flip side intensifies with downtempo gabba vibes with raging synths and abundant cymbal action. Three versions incorporate samples from Jimmy Stewart's 1946 monologue in It's A Wonderful Life to add another vibe entirely.

Review: Offering five tracks of captivating Italian techno and trance, JP Energy's Strano EP, resurfaces with a timeless allure, Originating from 1993 Italy, Side-1 opens with 'Down To The Moon,' exuding early 90s trance and techno vibes, hinting at the emergence of intelligent techno that later evolved into IDM. With celestial undertones, it sets a hypnotic tone. Following is 'Dolphin Dance,' blending techno with shades of darker 80s Italo house, crafting a compelling sonic journey. Flipping to Side 2, 'Alvorada' unfolds as a smooth, ambient techno gem, showcasing melodic intricacies that enchant the listener. The EP concludes with the E-Talking remix of 'Alvorada,' displaying a fresh and updated interpretation of the original. This remix maintains the track's smoothness while injecting
a contemporary flair. Overall, Strano EP is a great example at a timeless sound that is being enjoyed today.

Notes: The IK Multimedia UNO Synth PRO X, celebrated for its outstanding sound design capabilities and intuitive interface, is fast becoming a fixture in the collections of discerning musicians and producers. To address the necessity of preserving this innovative instrument, Decksaver have crafted the Decksaver cover for the IK Multimedia device, designed to offer comprehensive protection. Made from premium-grade polycarbonate, following Decksaver's exclusive formula, this cover is specifically engineered to protect against dust, spills, and unforeseen impacts.

Custom-fit for the PRO X, this Decksaver cover snugly envelops the synthesizer, ensuring all knobs, buttons, and inputs are thoroughly protected without obstructing cable connections. The design prioritises usability, facilitating quick and simple application or removal of the cover, a crucial consideration for dynamic musicians and producers. Whether en route to a live performance, situated in a studio, or kept at home, this cover acts as a solid safeguard, preserving the delicate components of your UNO Synth PRO X from the trials of daily use.

Choosing this Decksaver cover for your UNO Synth PRO X is more than a mere practical decision; it signifies a commitment to keeping your instrument in pristine condition. It is an essential asset for anyone intent on protecting their UNO Synth PRO X, ensuring it stays ready and responsive for every creative pursuit.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.195 kg
Length: 33.8 cm
Width: 15.1 cm
Height: 2.9 cm

Fits

UNO Synth Pro X
Uno Synth Pro Desktop

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Review: Speak Like A Child by Herbie Hancock is a groundbreaking album that defies categorization, blending elements of post-bop, modal jazz, and funk into a cohesive and forward-thinking sound only to be slotted into a wide spanning genre like Jazz-Fusion. The title track, 'Speak Like A Child', is a standout composition that highlights Hancock's signature piano playing, characterized by its lyrical melodies and inventive harmonies. The album features intricate arrangements and complex rhythms, with each track offering a unique sonic journey for the listener. Hancock's ability to push the boundaries of traditional jazz while maintaining a deep respect for the genre's roots is clear throughout the album. 'Speak Like A Child' remains a landmark recording in Hancock's discography, cementing his status as one of the most influential figures in modern jazz.

Review: Jonny Drop working with Andre Ashong is not a collab you might have seen coming, but it is one you will be glad has happened. Puzzle Dust is reportedly an album that was four years in the making and it comes on a lovely blue slab of vinyl. Musically it is a work that fuses soul and psychedelia with stripped-back broken beats, dusty drums and lo-fi rhythms peppered with earthy percussion. At times sunny and upbeat, at others stoned and horizontal, Ashong's hazy vocals colour the tracks with his signature smoky soul. A fantastic coming together of two diverse but quality artists.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Without original box, product in perfect working order***


Introducing the Decksaver cover designed specifically for the Pioneer DDJ-XP1 and DDJ-XP2 performance controllers. Engineered with precision and crafted to perfection, this cover is the ultimate companion for DJs who want to protect and preserve their valuable gear.

Custom-molded in the UK, the Decksaver cover is expertly crafted to perfectly fit the contours of your DDJ-XP1 or DDJ-XP2. Made from super-strong polycarbonate, it forms an impenetrable barrier, shielding your controller from dust, spills, and accidental impacts, ensuring its longevity and pristine condition.

With the Decksaver cover securely in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your DDJ-XP1 or DDJ-XP2 is always protected, whether you're in the DJ booth, studio, or on the road. No more worrying about scratches, liquid spills, or dust accumulation that can affect the performance and lifespan of your equipment.

Designed with functionality in mind, the Decksaver cover allows easy access to all the key features and controls of your DDJ-XP1 or DDJ-XP2. The precision molding ensures that buttons, pads, and faders remain fully accessible, allowing you to navigate your performance effortlessly and without any compromise.

Transportation is a breeze with the Decksaver cover. Its rugged construction and form-fitting design provide a secure fit, allowing you to pack your DDJ-XP1 or DDJ-XP2 into your gear bag without worry. Whether you're heading to a gig, a studio session, or a jam with fellow DJs, your controller will be protected throughout the journey.

Join the ranks of professional DJs worldwide who trust Decksaver for superior gear protection. The Decksaver cover for the Pioneer DDJ-XP1 and DDJ-XP2 is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and innovation. Rely on its robust build, sleek design, and reliable durability to keep your gear safe and sound.

Elevate your DJ performance and keep your DDJ-XP1 or DDJ-XP2 in pristine condition with the Decksaver cover. Experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your valuable equipment is shielded from potential hazards. Trust in the industry-leading protection provided by Decksaver and focus on delivering outstanding performances every time.

Fits: DDJ-XP1, DDJ-XP2

Dimensions

Weight 0.62 kg
Length 33.5 cm
Width 23.8 cm
Height 4 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

Review: Anyone familiar with Tokyo, Japan's predominantly instrumental math-rock prodigies Toe, should already be clued into the fact that the member's prolific nature prevents them from resting on their creative laurels for long, with each full-length they drop bookended by an EP. 2005's debut LP The Book About My Idle Plot On A Vague Anxiety was followed by the 2006 EP New Sentimentality, while after 2009's outstanding For Long Tomorrow came The Future Is Now in 2012. At the time of writing, 2018's aptly titled Our Latest Number currently sits as the group's most recent EP; sandwiched in between 2015's sonically transformative Hear You and 2021's latest output DOKU-EN-KAI. Furthering the experimentation of its preceding full-length, the EP strays from their signature twinkling, mathy noodles and emotive shoegazing, and instead embraces elements of minimalism and trip-hop, whilst expanding their acoustic-driven nu-jazz flourishes, and even sprinkling some ethereal vocals into the mix.

Review: Japanese math/post-rock outfit Toe have become renowned for their virtuosic blend of jazzy, hyper-technical math-rock blended with emo shoegazing and tropical Balearic vibes. Originally released in 2006 as follow up to the band's 2005 debut full-length The Book About My Idle Plot On A Vague Anxiety, and beginning their trend of intersplicing each album cycle with an EP, New Sentimentality offers up four lengthy cuts running the sonic gamut of almost every water they wade within. Trading off noodling twinkles with acoustic pluckings, while abrasive jazz drum-fills clatter over the weaving gentle cacophonies, this is what happens when the emo kids become the new prog nerds.

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


Conductive Labs have turned complex music theory into a killer synthesizer-jamming MIDI controller with The NDLR.

With four parts that can play up to 8 synths, it's possible to make fantastic electronic music with this device.

These tools we use to compose and produce music are dear to our hearts. Dust, liquid and accidental impact have taken many a good unit down over the years - this is where Decksaver steps in.

Designed exclusively for perfect fit, whilst still accommodating cables, your NDLR arpeggiator can sit ready for operation.

Slides straight into a flight or soft case, or rucksack for maximum protection during transportation.

Shields delicate controls, ports and internal components from damage at home, on the road and on stage.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.399kg
Length: 23.2cm
Width: 15.9cm
Height: 3.4cm

Review: In the realm of electronic music, 'In Your Face' EP by Acerbic emerges as a sonic assault that shatters boundaries and plunges listeners into an abyss of acid-tinged techno. An adrenaline-fueled shot, this four-track E.P. pulsates with raw energy and uncompromising intensity. 'In Your Face' sets the tone with its relentless 90s acid techno grooves, transporting listeners to the heart of the rave scene. Its abrasive and confrontational energy creates an atmosphere both exhilarating and intimidating. 'Assimilate' takes on a darker and more menacing persona, as the stomping beats and menacing synths evoke images of underground warehouse parties. 'I'm Fvxked' cranks up the intensity ever higher, pushing the boundaries of acid techno with its relentless pace and distorted soundscapes. The E.P. concludes with 'Never Changes', a testament to the enduring power of hardcore techno. Acerbic's In Your Face E.P. is a sonic tour de force that pushes the limits of techno music. Its aggressive and confrontational approach leaves an indelible mark on the listener. Hardcore, you know the score!

Review: For their latest deep dive into Italo-disco history, ZYX Records have enlisted the help of Guiseppe "Joey" Mauro - an Italian producer, songwriter and keyboardist whose career stretches right back to 1984. His "Italo-disco legends" selection is heavy on his own work - no bad thing given his credentials - and contains a wealth of material that has never appeared on CD before. Highlights are plentiful, with our picks including Mauro and Ventura's sparkling and uplifting 'You & I', Italowarriors' throbbing and colourful crew cut, 'The Warrior (120 Italo Version)', the bubbly cheeriness of 'Crazy (Classic Mix Version)' by Malcolm & The Bad Girls, and the effortless Italo funkiness of Raf Coney's 'Horsepower'.

Review: Earlier in the year, Miss You offered up a first ever 12-inch pressing of Patrizia Pellegrino obscurity 'Il Mondo Da Una Nuvola', an obscure Italo-disco B-side that they backed with their own tastefully executed extended mix. Here they repeat the trick with one of the Italian singer and actress's earlier B-sides, 1982 gem 'Musica Spaziale'. In its original form (track one), the song is a throbbing, heavily electronic chunk of infectious Italo-disco excellence topped off with a decidedly cosmic lead vocal from Pellegrino. It comes backed with a suitably moody, chugging and even more musically expansive 'Extended Mix', and a fine TB-303-laden Italo-meets-acid revision courtesy of the cheekily monikered 'DJ Asshole'. Space disco for the win!

Notes: Enhance your DJing experience with the Native Instruments Traktor X1, an essential controller for Traktor DJs seeking refined control over their mixes. Now, protect your investment with the Decksaver cover, the premier protection solution crafted to keep your X1 in mint condition, whether you're in the studio, on the move, or at home.

The Traktor X1 Decksaver lid is intricately designed to offer a perfect fit, providing unmatched protection for your controller. Developed with precision moulding in-house, this cover easily accommodates cables, enabling you to keep your setup neat and organised. By shielding your Traktor device from damage due to accidental knocks, dust, and spills, the Decksaver cover becomes an indispensable accessory for any DJ who cherishes their equipment.

Prioritising durability and functionality, the X1 cover ensures your controller's sensitive controls and internal components are kept intact. Its sturdy construction serves as a defence against the challenges of travel and the perils of daily use. Whether transporting your equipment to a performance or storing it between uses, the Decksaver cover delivers reliable protection that surpasses conventional methods.

Do not settle for less when it comes to the performance and longevity of your Native Instruments Traktor X1. Opt for the Decksaver cover and afford your controller the attention it requires during breaks, ensuring it's always primed to channel your creativity instantly. Maintain your gear in exceptional condition and enjoy peace of mind with the Traktor X1 Decksaver cover, for DJs who accept nothing but the best.

Weight: 0.175 kg
Length: 13.4 cm
Width: 32.7 cm
Height: 4.2 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Review: This Best Of The Morwells album originally landed back in 1981 but has not degraded in any way over the ensuring 40+ years. It is a superb collection of vocal roots that first came on the American label Nighthawk Records and might be best known for standout hits like 'In God We Trust' and 'Africa' as well as 'Educate Your Mind.' The lyrics muse on plenty of still relevant socio-political topics while riding on nice deep rhythms with earthy drums and meandering leads. The band went on to become well-regarded and prolific session musicians in Jamaica and you might well have heard of them... none other than The Roots Radics.

Review: Vital Detroit players Luke Hess and Joshua Harrison are back with a second EP that builds on the brilliance of their first. As always this is super deep and atmospheric dub techno outing on the superb EchoChord and all the cuts on it were produced live, in one take, in New York, at BlackCat Recordings. As such each one feels alive and variant, detailed with imperfections and of course defined by weighty low ends, aqueous synth work and a hypnotic sense of groove. These are stylish inward journeys of the highest order once more from this pair.

Notes: The Yamaha Seqtrak, a pioneering instrument in the realm of music composition and performance, has swiftly become an almost indispensable resource for artists and producers worldwide.

Acknowledging its pivotal role and the strong demand for reliable protection, Decksaver are delighted to present this cover, specially tailored for the Yamaha Seqtrak. This cover is meticulously fashioned from superior materials, offering precision-engineered defence against dust, spills, and unexpected impacts, thus ensuring the longevity of your device and preserving its pristine condition.

This Decksaver cover is custom-made to match the unique shape of the Seqtrak perfectly, ensuring a tight fit that encompasses all critical parts, including buttons, sliders, screens, and ports. Its robust design provides substantial protection while still permitting unobstructed access to all the device's functions and connections.

This feature is vital for seamless integration into your workflow, whether you're in the studio, on stage, or storing the device. This cover serves as a dependable guardian, keeping your Seqtrak ready for any creative endeavour you embark on.

Opting for this Decksaver cover for your Yamaha Seqtrak is more than just choosing protection; it represents a commitment to preserving the instrument's longevity and operational integrity. Held in high regard by musicians and producers, this cover is an essential ally for anyone committed to protecting the integrity and efficiency of their Seqtrak. It enables users to pursue their artistic ambitions with increased confidence and peace of mind, assured that their equipment is thoroughly safeguarded.

Weight: 0.14 kg
Length: 35 cm
Width: 10 cm
Height: 2.9 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

Notes: Enhance the resilience and sophistication of your Teenage Engineering EP-133 K.O.II with our tailor-made Decksaver protective cover. Recognising that your K.O.II is more than merely a device, but an integral part of your musical voyage, it warrants the utmost in care and protection. The Decksaver cover is poised to provide precisely that, serving as a formidable protector against external hazards.

This bespoke-engineered cover is designed specifically to match the contours of your EP-133, preserving its stylish, slender profile whilst offering unparalleled protection. Crafted from high-grade polycarbonate, it establishes a strong defence against dust, liquid spills, and unexpected impacts. With this cover, you're free to delve into your musical explorations, devoid of concerns over the common perils that might harm your valued instrument.

The Decksaver cover delivers total protection for every control and feature of your EP-133. Whether you're producing beats in the studio, performing live, or concocting sounds on the go, this cover is your indispensable shield against abrasions, bumps, and contamination. Embrace the liberty of creativity, reassured by the knowledge that your instrument is securely guarded by the Decksaver armour.

Beyond its protective qualities, the Decksaver cover also shines in terms of convenience. Its transparent design allows you to showcase your K.O.II's unique aesthetic while keeping it protected. The cover supports efficient cable management, enabling you to apply or remove it with ease as needed. This obviates the need for frequent setups and disassemblies, offering immediate access to your instrument whenever inspiration strikes.

Transporting your EP-133 becomes effortless with the lightweight and compact Decksaver cover. Its slender profile means it easily slips into your backpack, gig bag, or carrying case, ensuring your instrument remains shielded from knocks, scratches, spills, and impacts during transit. With the Decksaver cover, you can confidently bring your EP-133 K.O.II to any location, secure in the knowledge that it is well-protected wherever you venture.

The Decksaver lid for the EP-133 K.O.II is more than a mere protective accessory; it signifies your dedication to your music. It offers the reassurance that your instrument is consistently safeguarded, allowing you to concentrate on broadening your musical boundaries. Let the Decksaver cover be a companion on your musical journeys, ensuring your K.O.II is always primed for the next auditory adventure.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.16 kg
Length: 18.1 cm
Width: 24.5 cm
Height: 3.3 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Review: Bill Frisell's Orchestras, a collaboration with composer-arranger Michael Gibbs, showcases the transformative power of jazz when paired with symphonic ensembles. The album combines Frisell's trio with the Brussels Philharmonic and the Umbria Jazz Orchestra, resulting in a dynamic interplay between jazz intimacy and orchestral grandeur. Gibbs' masterful orchestrations, inspired by Gil Evans and cinematic scores, seamlessly enhance the trio's telepathic rapport. Frisell's signature shimmering sound blends effortlessly with strings and brass, creating a rich and expressive tapestry. Notably, the collaboration highlights the deep connection between Frisell and Gibbs, a legendary innovator in jazz arranging. Gibbs' intuitive writing draws out the trio's spontaneity and pushes them into uncharted territory. Frisell and Gibbs' mutual admiration and influence create a palpable energy throughout the album, showcasing the transformative power of collaboration.

Review: The Mars Volta's debut album remains one of the band's creative high-points. After the post-hardcore rush of At The Drive-In burst into flames, few could have dreamed something as ambitious and progressive as De Loused In The Comatorium could have emerged. The clue's in the word progressive, as Cedric Bixler-Zavala, Omar Rodriguez-Lopez and Jeremy Ward pooled their resources (with some bass assistance from Flea) to create long, spiralling narratives around the concept of Cerpin Taxt, the comatose hero of this nebulous story. Still sounding visionary 20 years later, it was the start of an exciting new chapter for a band truly unlike any other.

Review: Taylor Swift's evolution from country crooner to pop sensation solidifies her status in the Tortured Poets Department as she joins the ranks of music's chief emotional architects. Through heartbreak anthems and soul-baring lyrics, Swift's discography serves as a diary of love, loss, and resilience. From 'Love Story' to 'All Too Well,' her songs resonate with listeners and capture the raw intensity of human emotion. Swift's ability to weave intricate narratives and evoke profound sentiment establishes her as a modern-day poet who navigates the complexities of life and love with eloquence and grace.

Review: Prince Istari's earliest memories are of his mother playing the tranquil melodies of Erik Satie's pieces on the piano. Skipping school, he'd bask in the sun, absorbed by the serene tunes and years later in 2024, rediscovering his mother's sheet music sparked a creative resurgence. He transformed them into dub versions, crafting a tapestry of sound, and each piece's form dictated its direction, evolving from heavy dub to delicate piano and synthesiser blends. The finale, a relic from his past as Istari Lasterfahrer, features a distorted recording of his mother playing Satie to complete the circle. This special record comes in limited quantities of just 200 copies.

Review: Taylor Swift is a global superstar and pop icon with over 200 million records worldwide and numerous awards, including 13 Grammys. under her belt, Known for her catchy pop songs and her outspoken personality, this is the upcoming 11th studio album by her and will feature 16 new tracks plus one bonus track. The album is said to be a departure from Swift's previous work and will explore darker and more introspective themes. Nevertheless, expect more Swift goodness if you are Swiftie. This edition is pressed on white vinyl with a 24 page booklet included.

Notes: The Allen & Heath CQ-18T has become a highly coveted device to protect, owing to its versatile features in managing mixing, recording, live performance, and digital audio workstation (DAW) integration. Its multifunctional nature distinguishes it as a preferred option for audio professionals.

Decksaver's range of professional mixer covers is designed to provide audio engineers with the confidence and peace of mind necessary in any environment.

Specifically conceived and crafted in the UK for the Allen & Heath CQ-18T, this Decksaver cover is manufactured from polycarbonate-a robust and transparent material precisely tailored to the exact specifications, achieving the perfect level of smoked clarity.

Each design is subject to rigorous testing to confirm it meets Decksaver's stringent standards, assuring you of its quality and dependability. The cover efficiently protects faders, buttons, knobs, and indicators from dust, spills, and unintended impacts, whilst preserving the integrity of your cables and settings.

Endorsed by industry experts and utilised by professionals, the Decksaver cover for the CQ-18T is the preferred selection for safeguarding your equipment, ensuring no compromise on functionality or aesthetics.

Dimensions

Weight: 0.194 kg
Length: 32.9 cm
Width: 23.8 cm
Height: 4.9 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate

WARNING: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Review: For the first time in over 26 years, much-loved metallers Pearl Jam finally topped mainstream rock airplay charts in the US with the first single off their latest album. That came some 1000 days ahead of the album itself which has now finally arrived and has soon won over fans. That single, 'Dark Matter', became Pearl Jam's first No. 1 on the chart since 'Given To Fly' led for six weeks all the way back in January-February 1998. The rest of the album is full of just as much gold as that, with plenty more of their signature riffs and potent grooves all topped with Eddie Vedder's legendary lung-busting vocals.

Review: Soiree hands over its next 12" to a pair of artists who take care of one side each. Drivetrain goes first with 'The Moonlight' which is a moon-lit jaunt through a futuristic city scope with broken beats and neon chords. 'Moonlight & You' carries over similar melodies with steely drums and vocal harmonies, and then G-Prod steps up with 'Moonlight' which brings a more stripped back and dark groove run through with acid menace. Last of all is David Duriez with his Floating Light mix of the same cut and it's a dreamy deep house roller for cosy basements.

Review: Air Formation are Brighton-based shoegazers who are back now with their sixth album, a self-titled record on Club AC30, that is inspired by their love of pioneering bands like Flying Saucer Attack, Spiritualized and The Jesus & Mary Chain. It is a collection of tracks drenched in droning keys, heavy feedback, delayed guitar loops and heavenly vocals that float up top above the noise. It takes in the likes of the blissful opener 'Pressure Drop', the sweeping crescendos of 'Only So Much Light', shimmering and swirling melodies on 'I Don't Want To Talk' and 'Crashing Out' and plenty more.

Review: It isn't too often that you can get two rare and desirable releases on one CD but that's just what we have here. Dr.Bird gives us these rare 70s examples of lesser known releases that have a strong cult following but are still being discovered. Delroy Wilson's Sarge from 1977 and Ken Boothe's Unlimited from 1977. Both releases are lauded for each singers soulful voice and music diversity with early ska and rocksteady infused into their reggae sounds. Both releases are hard to get original copies for a reasonable price so having them together is an added treat.

Review: Alex Puddu is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer renowned for his collaborations with luminaries like Edda Dell'Orso and Joe Bataan, and here he presents a debut double single that is sung in Italian. With tracks 'Pullover Grigio' and 'Texas Blonde,' he introduces a fusion of Italian funk-pop from the late 70s and early 80s and melds the with the pop and indie melodies of contemporary Italy. Also drawing on influences from soul to disco, Puddu's unique production style shines through with its most tender chords, seductive vocals and sunny sounds.

Review: South African Warrick Sony is a ground breaking composer who was behind the Kalahari Surfers project which now gets a vital spotlight courtesy of Emotional Rescue. This compilation shows how effortlessly eclectic his sound was - from jive rhythms to jazz, tabla to political speeches and much more in between. A Hindu pacifist who was once conscripted into the South African Defense Force, he founded this group as a way out getting his ides out there, calling on other musicians as and when he needed them. It was the first radical white anti-apartheid pop in South Africa and as this vital collection shows it explored polyrhythms, slow motorik, dub sound collage and even a goofy cover of Nancy Sinatra.

Notes: Introducing the Decksaver cover, meticulously crafted for the Allen & Heath CQ-12T mixer. This cover, engineered with exacting precision and made from superior-grade material, offers a bespoke-fit solution that is unrivalled. It provides your CQ-12T with unparalleled defence against common hazards like dust, liquid spills, and accidental knocks or impacts.

Understanding the significance of your mixer as a vital component of your audio setup, this Decksaver cover has been designed to ensure your CQ-12T remains in pristine condition, regardless of the setting. Whether in the studio, at a live performance, or during transportation, the cover acts as a reliable shield, preserving the functionality and aesthetics of your mixer.

Its sleek, transparent design not only delivers robust protection but also showcases the sophisticated build of your CQ-12T, integrating flawlessly with its professional appearance. The precise fit ensures that every knob, fader, screen, and input is covered, yet remains easily accessible for quick setups and teardowns. This design principle means that you don't have to choose between safety and style.

Furthermore, the Decksaver cover for the CQ-12T is lightweight and durable, making it an ideal accessory for DJs on the move. It adds an additional layer of security against the challenges of travel and frequent use, protecting your investment from the wear and tear of the road.

With this Decksaver cover, you acquire not just a protective measure, but a declaration of professionalism. It reflects your dedication to quality and the importance you place on keeping your equipment in its best condition. Embrace the peace of mind and confidence that comes with knowing your Allen & Heath CQ-12T is well-protected, allowing you to concentrate on what you do best; creating and performing music.

Weight: 0.151 kg
Length: 27.4 cm
Width: 23.7 cm
Height: 4 cm

Material: Smoked clear polycarbonate.

Warning: When your Decksaver cover is in place, please ensure that your equipment is kept away from direct and high heat sources, such as radiators, fires and sunlight.

Review: Goat's World Music offers a captivating blend of Aboriginal, Nordic, psychedelia, acid Rock and tribal influences, exuding strong rock overtones driven by powerful female vocals that command attention with their intensity and strength. Throughout the album, listeners are treated to mesmerizing organ leads that add an ethereal dimension to the music, while abrasive and rash guitar work injects a raw energy into the sound. Tribal percussion rhythms further enhance the album's immersive atmosphere, transporting listeners on a sonic journey. With its diverse range of influences and eclectic instrumentation, World Music defies traditional genre boundaries, making this a listening experience that stands out.

Review: Sasha's Fleuron Drift epitomises classic progressive house, showcasing his expertise in the genre. The original track features a strong melodic build and consistent energy throughout, captivating listeners with its dynamic progression. On the B-side, the remixes kick off with Theo Kottis' remix injects a more upbeat and trance-like vibe, with futuristic and techy elements. The growling bassline adds intensity, while a melodic break and tension release keep the energy flowing. In contrast, Kassian's remix takes a more minimal approach, focusing on groove. Stripping back the layers, it emphasizes rhythm and movement, creating a hypnotic atmosphere that draws listeners into its depths. Overall, Fleuron Drift and its remixes offer a diverse range of sounds and styles, staying true to the essence of classic progressive house.

Review: Waajeed is a top tier talent - a producer, DJ, expert beat maker and label head at Dirt Tech Rack who moved away from his deep house sounds to cook up this masterful hip hop record back in 2006. It now arrives on vinyl almost 20 years later but time has not diminished its quality. It finds the Detroit native, who thrives on breaking conventional boundaries, telling the story of the kidnapping of Patricia Hearst as an emblematic American tale that he pairs with a raw beat framework that taps into the vibes of artists like J Dilla and Slum Village. It is a serious work from a serious artist.

Review: Adlas has a compelling signature sound - its quick and punchy but also seductive and funk. The opener on this new EP for Answer Code Request certainly fits that bill - Headland' has nice analogue drums and elastic bass down low with rich, smeared synths up top. 'Oscillation' gets deeper and rides on a rolling beat that rocks back and forth with ambient synths up top and a sense of mysticism in the air. 'Bluff' gets back to bumpy beats and dubbed low ends with some static-charged pads and 'Static' is the deepest of the lot - a subaquatic deep techno trip for the heads.

Review: Japanese psychedelic pop singer-songwriter Ai Aso hails from Tokyo and has an almost impossibly wispy thin folky style to her singing that makes her utterly unique. She has been active since 2000 and has worked both solo as well as with the likes of White Heaven members You Ishihara and Michio Kurihara. Her solo album arrived back in 2014 and now a decade on gets a vinyl press via Ideologic Organ. It is beautifully delicate and whimsical, with lullaby-like guitar melodies and her own vaporous vocals drifting gently with a real sense of innocence in the sparse tracks. Lo-fi and intimate, this is a quiet gem.

Review: The EP is called House of Prince and the Purple One's face is peering back at us from the centre of this new 12" on Tech-Nology which means only one thing - it's tech house music inspired by the legendary funkster. And it is well executed tracker too with vocal samples, trumpet sounds and much more all chuckle into the mix over a range of betas that are playful and party starting but also effective and never kitsch. 'Grindhouz' is our favourite for just how warped and weird it sounds.

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


Songs in The Key of E is a new offering the legendary soul man Everis, arriving in limited edition vinyl form just in time for Christmas. It features a number of superb new hair raising soul songs with some top guests too including a pair of award-winning singers, two international rappers, and a cult UK MC and sound system legend. There is an old school r&b tinge to the production and songwriting, with lavish keys and nice fresh beats all topped with emotive vocals that all swell the heart.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Creasing to corner of outer sleeve but otherwise in excellent condition***


Italian singer Elena Ferretti also worked under the monikers Sophie and Helen. She was massively popular on the Italo and Eurobeat scene back at the start of the 80s and was produced by Giacomo Maiolini, Sergio Dall'Ora and Giancarlo Pasquini. She has got plenty of cult tunes to her name (or names) and 'I Love You' is one of them to now get reissued by ZYX. It has a classic synth bassline that sprays across the track like the Donna Summer classic 'I Feel Love', with analogue drum sounds below and magnificent melodies up top. Flemming Dalum remixes with big, bright, shimming retro-future synth chords and Victor Ark brings a more cold and stomping feel.

Review: Dominick Martin is best known as stone-cold drum & bass don Calibre, a prolific producer with a masterfully deep and smoky sound. He has also made tech house under his own name, but lesser known is this album
Valentia which was originally released in 2013 and has now been remastered and repressed on 180 gram vinyl with a sleeve containing the lyrics. It was written on the amazing Valentia Island, joined to the west coast of Co Kerry in Ireland by a bridge t and battered by strong winds. Says Martin, "I took my computer and mic with me not knowing what to expect when I got there. In one of the rooms sat a piano, and as my fingers touched the keys I knew there was a story there waiting to be told."

Review: One of many of IRMA Records' jazz-funk compilations, Acid Jazz Funk is a sixteen-track compilation full of delights; but should not be confused with many of their prior, albeit similarly titled titles, including Acid Jazz & Funky Grooves and Acid Jazz Classics. Clearly, we're in the presence of connoisseurs; cuts from Black & Brown, Funky Destination, The Smoke Orchestra and Jestofunk appear as standouts on this as-ever supremely selected V/A on 2xLP, once more centring on the tasteful proclivities of the c.1990 Bolognan dance music fan; their preference for hard breaks and quiet-stormed funk calms overlaid.

Review: The Invitations have roots tracing back to the mid-60s and saw various lead singers take the mic until Lew Kirton joined in 1973. Kirton's vocals grace both 'Look On The Good Side' and 'They Say The Girl's Crazy' from 1974 which are now reissued for the first time. Originally released on Silver Blue Records, a label founded by songwriter and producer Joel Diamond, these tracks were arranged and co-produced by Bobby Martin in Philadelphia and boast the unmistakable Philly Sound. Kirton later departed for a successful solo career, notably remembered for hits like 'Heaven In The Afternoon' but this reissue brings forth a timeless slice of soul history.

Review: The Cold Diggin label out of Dresden has long been serving up the work of The Duke Ya Love To Hate, which is one of myriad aliases of an artist who gets by the name of Stefan Senf. They are generally few and far between but are always worth copying when they do drop and this one comes on lovely hand-numbered 7" in a special screen-printed sleeve. 'Introducin' is a loose-limbed funk workout with classic hip-hop breaks and free-wheeling pads. 'Prescribin' is more slow and seductive with its florid melodic leads and lovely lazy beats.

Review: The debut solo album by David Crosby of Crosby, Stills & Nash fame, If I Could Only Remember My Name is an ironic title for an artist first striking out on their commercial own. But despite its faux-amnesiac title, this freak-folk opus is actually a striking claim to, not a loss of, personal musical identity. Following the success of 1970's Deja Vu with Stills & Nash, Crosby sought to expound on that album's methodology - hard psychedelic drugs, brushes with insanity, copious studio time - to produce a crisp, profound and multifaceted vision on the intersection of blues, folk and collective music-making, with every legend from Neil Young to Joni Mitchell to Graham Nash in tow. The highlight has to be, above all, 'Tamalpais High (At About 3)'.

Review: You mightn't initially peg the Sunderland area of Northern England for being a hotbed of brutal, violent deathcore, but that's precisely what Osiah offer, with their own mission statement even declaring them to be the "UK's heaviest Northern offering". Following on from 2021's malevolent Loss, the band have somehow managed to drag their psychotic blend of frenetic riffage, octopus-like blast beat drumming, heaving hardcore breakdowns and despicable guttural vocals further down into chasms of otherworldly abyssal dread. Hideous, highly technical, and arriving courtesy of definitive deathcore label Unique Leader, although it arrived in December of 2023, many have slowly begun to retrospectively regard Kairos as the most intense, dynamic and powerful offering to the genre of last year.

Review: A surprise addition to the series of Belinda Carlisle reissues mainly slated for 2023 comes this 2024 top-up edition of Real, complementing the already-out Demon Records versions of Heaven On Earth and Runaway Horses. Real is Carlisle's fifth studio album, for which a decided wardrobe reshuffle captures the mood; famously, the singer swapped her prior glamorous look for a jeans and tee shirt drip, coinciding with the ironic theme of authenticity which recurs throughout the album. Famed for its badboy biker-loving ballad 'Big Scary Animal', on which Carlisle confronts the id through coming face-to-face with 'feelings hid', and 'Lay Down Your Arms', on which a wild-western theme is subverted to provoke the sense of a lawless relationship triangle up for grabs.

Review: Released in 1993 and now reissued via its original label Demon, Belinda Carlisle's fifth solo album was notable for its standout singles 'Big Scary Animal' and 'Lay Down Your Arms', both of which showed off her raunchy, large, all-American style. At this stage in her career, we witnessed Carlisle deliberate on her femininity; re-form her agency under patriarchy; and subvert classic Westernized images of opulence, romance and wealth; all while keeping things instrumental energized and hey-ho. Now, once more, you can reexperience Carlisle's return to authentic source, with Real.