R.A.D Vinyl

Ttotals- “Spectrums of Light” (Twin Lakes...

Wed, 22 May 2013 18:12:00 -0400

Ttotals- “Spectrums of Light” (Twin Lakes Records)

buy it here: http://www.twinlakesrecords.com/ttotals-listenbuy/

<a href=”http://twinlakesrecords.bandcamp.com/album/ttotals-spectrums-of-light-7-inch” data-mce-href=”http://twinlakesrecords.bandcamp.com/album/ttotals-spectrums-of-light-7-inch”>Ttotals - “Spectrums of Light” 7-inch by Ttotals</a>

Twin Lakes Records has quickly landed on my radar of must watch labels with the excellent Myty Konkeror lp and an equally impressive release by Dwight Smith that has sadly not made it to vinyl yet. With each new release they have proved they are a well curated label of talented modern musicians who travel in a broad spectrum of genres from psych to the experimental just to name a few. With their latest release they have chosen a 7” by the psychedelic Nashville duo Ttotals. The 7” is limited to 300 copies with a fantastic lite brite colored silk screened cover that’s just as tripped out as their slow burn gloomy hallucinatory music. For a duo Ttotals has no problem filling out their sound with droning dirty guitars and huge thunderous drums. Both songs play on the loud soft loud dynamics of 90’s post-rock but rather than lifting you to the heavens with crescendos Ttotals will suck you into a vortex of swirling hypnotic sounds. This is a great 7” worthy of any psych lovers collection.

7” Split The Dead Records/Laura K Balke- Usonian...

Mon, 20 May 2013 18:12:10 -0400

7” Split The Dead Records/Laura K Balke- Usonian Records

buy it here: http://usonian.bandcamp.com/

I Can Only Run by Laura K Balke

Laura K Balke sent along what seems to be the first release of a Brooklyn/Indianapolis co-run label. It’s great to see a label starting up with a silk screened cover hand made total DIY 7” which I can only assume is a limited edition. Equally as cool is the fact that both The Dead Records and Laura K Balke have contributed their b-sides digitally via a download code. Laura K Balke’s contributions are the clear stand outs. The track “I Can Only Run” is an infectious mid-tempo moody track. Balke’s voice is warm and her lyrics are heart on the sleeve goodness. The fuzzy guitars and bells give the track great atmosphere and a bit of a 90s glow. Hopefully a full-length will follow with the same artistic DIY silk screened aesthetic.

TEO LAURA AMAOEl Sonido de la Carretera...

Sat, 18 May 2013 09:31:00 -0400

TEO LAURA AMAO
El Sonido de la Carretera Central

MASSTROPICAS

Buy it here http://lightintheattic.net/releases/883-el-sonido-de-la-carretera-central

The New release from Masstropicas is now available for purchase in the light in the attic shop. judging by the cover alone this record will be some serious heat and once you dig the needle into the grooves Teo Laura Amao does not disappoint for one second. The pressing is limited to 500 copies and features 12 tracks spanning from 1973-1985 blending hard rock and soul with the cumbia sounds of lima, peru. These tracks have never before been available outside of peru. Masstropicas is an incredible record label unearthing amazing sounds by little known groups outside of their native areas. I highly RECOMMEND checking this out.

Record Store Day puts a spotlight on...

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:53:00 -0400

Record Store Day puts a spotlight on many large labels throwing around some money to do very limited pressings of of hot artists pressuring the collector to rush out and stand in lines all day to hopefully grab a copy before they all end up on ebay. The truth is though that many labels are doing amazing limited pressings of records on a day to day basis on a shoestring budget for artists they truly believe in. Sadly these labels don’t get the attention they deserve. Melvin Dillon of Soul Step Records has released three excellent records by Scattered Trees, Big Tree and Matt Duncan. The sound of Soul Step is a perfect blend of indie pop with R&B and blue eyed soul. Melvin took some time out to talk about his label past present and future and his love of vinyl.

Soft Times by Matt Duncan

Why start a label?

The long and short of it was that when I was an artist - I could never afford to get my music out there on vinyl. I would have loved the chance - but the costs to press something even as small as a 7” just proved to costly. I wanted to provide a service for artists get their music out on vinyl without having to take on any cost. That is what makes Soul Step Records different and mutually beneficial. I am much happier directing from afar than attempting to be in the spotlight.

When and how did it start?

The idea sprung in my head in the summer of 2011. I was mid-shower and the idea came pouring into my brain. I jumped right out mid-shampoo and wrote everything down. I finished the shower and the rest is history!

What labels inspire you?

Third Man Records for sure. The innovation and creativity that comes from them is incredible. I’m always thinking of ways to innovate - but Third Man is in a league all their own. Numero Group in Chicago gets props for the level of detail laid into each release. It’s almost like musical archeology. Plus the music is top notch. Those are probably who I look for when it comes to inspiration.

What is the goal and purpose of your label?

To do a couple of things. First is to push the vinyl medium forward - with innovation and education. I want to be able to reach new audiences and keep the momentum of the vinyl resurgence alive. I also want to ensure that I can help artists along in their dreams by making vinyl a possible reality for them - in a way where they put no money into it and can make plenty of money at the same time. There is nothing like it.

How do you find new artists?

LOTS of digging. I am constantly searching and sourcing online for someone new. I also get TONS of submissions (Which I love) and sourcing locally. I think that it is one of the most important and fun aspects of the work we do - is the work we put into finding this new great artist and introducing them to a whole new audience.

Why vinyl?

I think that it is the way music should be listened to. I think that your readers are well versed on the sound quality advantages of vinyl - so I won’t speak to that so much as the permanency of it all. Digital files can be deleted in a second. Gone. CD’s have and continue to be flimsy and disposable. Vinyl is heavy. Vinyl is big. Owning a record on vinyl means that you have a connection to the music buried in the grooves. There is an emotional and romantic aspect to owning and playing vinyl. You have to hold it just right, treat it well, care to it - it’s a more active experience. Now for our artists - we want their fans to experience their music THAT way. That’s where Soul Step Records comes in.

How important is packaging to you?

Incredibly so. That is one of the biggest parts of the vinyl experience - it’s what you are holding and reading during the listening experience. I feel as though we are continuing to make our layout and designs better. It is tough for smaller labels, as packaging can be the most expensive part of the vinyl process. I’ve seen some really great stuff - but one of my favorite designs is from Karate Body Records did a “Matchbook” cover for a Pokey LeFarge 7” It’s super cool. I love when the innovation doesn’t just stop with the record itself - but moves onto the packaging.

What are your future plans?

We are looking to find and release SSR-004 in the Fall, and announce some new additions to our business. We want to not only just release new records - but find some reissues and some archival work. We don’t want to be one dimensional with our plans.

Do you collect vinyl?

Religiously. It all started with hearing Bob Dylan’s “Blonde on Blonde” on vinyl and just began to swell from there. I had never heard such rich and warm sound before and just like that, I had the bug. I love the active listening you need as well. Nothing makes me happier when I have someone over to my home and I get to share some of my favorites in my collection. Or going to to someones place and looking at their collection.

How big is your collection?

Whew. 6000+ easy. And truthfully the majority of that is Soul and R&B. I cannot get enough. Just when I think that I have bought all that is out there - I uncover a entire new area I’ve been unaware of. My collection is all I have in terms of worldly possessions. Any day that I get free from work I can easily be found digging in one of the local indie record stores, flea markets, yard sales or anywhere else I can track down the black wax.

What are some of your go to records over the years?

Now THIS is a tough question. It’s like asking parents who the favorite child is…..I’ll have to say these would be the top. Beach Boys - “Pet Sounds”, Sam Cooke - ”Live At The Harlem Square Club”, Tom Waits - “Heart Of Saturday Night” I could honestly name 20 more - but then that would make me think of another 20, and that 20 would make me think of another 20 - and I’m sure you get the point!

Pre orders are up now for Lee Noble’s new LP...

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 22:05:00 -0400

Pre orders are up now for Lee Noble’s new LP “Ruiner” The release date is set for April 30th.

http://batheticrecords.com/release/ruiner/

This is the follow up to Noble’s masterpiece “Horrorism” one of my personal favorite albums of 2011 and one that has gotten many late night spins on my turntable. Be sure to snag this one up before it sells out.

The Warmth- Tourniquet buy it here: http://thewarmth.com/ Carl...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 18:05:00 -0400

The Warmth- Tourniquet

buy it here: http://thewarmth.com/

Carl Saff who many know as a master of the mastering game and Paul Foreman have been working as the duo The Warmth since 2006. Their newest work to date is the self-released “Tourniquet” on clear vinyl held in a heavy plastic bag with an insert that features some striking artwork that may be a bit misleading. One might think a rootsy folk vibe from the excellent nature shot when in fact The Warmth mixes electronics, synths and lots of studio wizardry to craft an excellent lp that lives in the land of Radiohead, The Postal Service and even a bit of the Flaming Lips more tame moments. Their is a good mix of subdued mellow atmospherics like “We Sold Lightning” with more upbeat tracks like “While the Compound Kicks in” that is driven by a skittering drum machine beat that devolves into a strange synth ending. “Move Quickly” seems to be the track the band has their sights on as the single and it is certainly a stand out track with all of the puzzle pieces of vocals and music fitting together just right with tons of studio polish and craft. The Warmth have managed to create a record that actual has a vibe that is warm and analog sounding rather than a sterile synth pop album which so many bands trying to bite on Radiohead’s style end up succumbing to. “Tourniquet” sounds modern and timely and in the end has its own unique sound that breathes life into an electronic world. Honestly their isn’t a bad song in the bunch it’s solid from stem to stern and worth checking out and is sure to soothe the ache during those long breaks between Radiohead albums.

Animal City- See You in the Funny Pages (Sophomore Lounge) buy...

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:02:00 -0400

Animal City- See You in the Funny Pages (Sophomore Lounge)

buy it here: http://sophomoreloungerecords.com/seeyouinthefunnypages.html

Animal City are back with their sophomore release aptly on Sophomore Lounge limited to 300 copies on black vinyl. Armed with some stock keyboard beats mixed in with jangling rock anthems, quirky song structures and lyrics that side on the darkly humorous side Animal City have crafted a unique lp. “See You in the Funny Pages” is lyrically dense and will take several spins to take in all the twists and turns in the storytelling, luckily the entire backside of the lp jacket is taken up by the lyrics so you can sing along with your favorite jam. If songs about skateboarding and drugs or crushing on the maid of honor are your thing you will be hard pressed to find a band doing it better than Animal City.

Melodia-Saudades (Own Records) buy it...

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 17:46:06 -0400

Melodia-Saudades (Own Records)

buy it here: http://ownrecords.bandcamp.com/album/saudades

Saudades by Melodía

Brazilian Fredrico Durand and Japanese musician Tomoyoshi Date met on tour in Europe and have come together to form Melodia. The result of this new musical partnership is a stunningly gorgeous Lp ”Saudades” limited to 300 black vinyl on Own Records. The lengthiest track on the lp “The Rise of Early Morning” is just shy of ten minutes. As I sat and listened to the track with a cup of coffee the music and field recordings perfectly evoked the peaceful tranquility of an early Saturday morning. Ambient electronic music is well worn territory and everyone with some guitar pedals or a laptop has jumped into the game. What sets Melodia apart is their expert blending of acoustic instruments with the prepared sounds. The plucking of strings and the well placed bells create a seemingly avant classical nature to the music stirring up Steve Reich like melodies for brief moments but avoiding lengthy repetition. Instead the five pieces on “Saudades” unfold with subtle graceful music box like melodies. “Saudades” is a Portuguese word with no direct English translation, but it represents a deep emotional state of longing or nostalgia. This record is not a happy or a sad record but instead it is one of introspection and contemplation. The music gives you space to think and absorb and long for days gone by. If you enjoy instrumental music of any variety this is a must have.

Merzbow Boxset- Tourette Records buy it...

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:34:00 -0400

Merzbow Boxset- Tourette Records

buy it here: http://www.touretterecords.com/pages/news.html

Tourette Records has unleashed a monster of a boxset featuring the duo works of Japan’s Merzbow from 1987-89. Depending on what you want to spend you can get the 10 cd edition limited to 400 or the 11 cd edition with a signed card limited to 100. This is intense stuff as Merzbow is improvising and experimenting with pushing sound to its limits and beyond in very long formless tracks. For those who are already fans of Merzbow’s long career they will find these 10 cds of unreleased studio material a welcome addition to the catalog. The cds are a mixture of chaotic percussion, metallic screeching, flute, bass, guitars and a large array of other instruments and effects. I enjoyed disc one for its whimsical free jazz vibe with a background of harsh noise. Disc 3 also was a highlight as it begins with a disjointed blues riff accompanied by atonal plucking before dissolving into dense noise. If you are a fan of noise music this is essential and while I don’t typically post on cds and actually this may be the first post on them I must say Tourette Records has done an astonishing job with the packaging that rivals the packaging happening in the vinyl world today.

La Luz 7” on Water Wing Records buy it here...

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:07:00 -0400

La Luz 7” on Water Wing Records

buy it here : http://waterwingrecords.com/htmls/laLuz.html

Water Wing Records sent over their new 7” for the fantastic all girl group La Luz that will be coming out soon on black vinyl. “Call me in the day” and “Easy Baby” are the two tracks on the single that originally come from La Luz’s fall of 2012 5 track “Damp Face” EP. La Luz take the amped up adrenaline of surf music and hit the brakes crafting a very chill vibe on the genre yet still keeping the copious amounts of reverb springing and organs droning. A heavy dose of nostalgia for the girl groups of the doo-wop era are flowing through the veins of these two hazy tracks with background oohs and ahhs a plenty. It’s an excellent single that is a perfect introduction to spring.

Catching up with Troy of Medical Records buy new releases...

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 18:08:00 -0400

Catching up with Troy of Medical Records

buy new releases here: http://medical-records.org/index.html

Medical Records has just dropped two incredible lps Gina X Performance’s “Nice Mover” limited to 1000 on an incredible looking bone colored 180g vinyl and Mathematiques Modernes “Les Visiteurs Du Soir” limited to 1000 on Grey 180g vinyl. Word is that stock on Gina X is already very low and selling fast and is with all Medical Records these are limited and tend to sell out in a few months or faster. Both lps are essential additions to any analog synth lovers collection. To shake things up I decided to ask Troy a few questions on Medical Records and his new releases.

Medical Records is closing in on a 5 year anniversary and will eclipse 20 releases by the end of 2013. Describe where your head is at now compared to the beginning days of the label?

—- I feel I am still doing exactly what I set out to do. That is, to make available amazing synth-based records of the late 70s/early 80s. The collector’s market is stronger than ever which results in astronomical prices on obscure records from this era. So obviously, I have my work cut out for me for years to come. I want as many people as possible to have axxess (no pun intended) to these great records and to be able to enjoy them on vinyl in their homes on their turntables. And I feel the quality of the reissues has a tendency to trump the sound quality and packaging of the original pressings in some cases.

Has it been more work than you anticipated?

—- Honestly yes and no. Yes it has been more work as far as the bulk of boxes of records that come and go through my house related to the label. Tons of trips to the post office, applying UPC stickers, etc etc. I have finally learned to catch up some technologies though and have made that part much more efficient. We have been releasing hand-numbered vinyl for some time now but after thinking long and hard about it, I am going to stop this practice going forward. Though it has been fun for the collectors, it creates a massive burden on the logistics of getting a new shipment, sorting, etc. The pressings are getting up in to the 1000 range so the hand-numbering is something I have decided to let go of. Hopefully people will understand. The reason I mentioned that is has been LESS work than I anticipated is because as time goes on, it seems easier to reach artists to arrange reissues. Luckily the reputation has been good, so I don’t have to spend as much time pleading with artists to give me a shot to reissue their classic album. Also the age of Facebook has cut down a lot of the time scouring the internet trying to find some of the artists. I also have multiple “helpers” who are collaborating with me who make things markedly easier and smoother for me (i.e. Nick Mariano from Crispy Nuggets blog:http://crispynuggets.blogspot.com/).

Has your philosophy in what you want to release evolved?

—- I feel the foundation of what we reissue is the same, but I would say the foundation is enlarging. I plan to embark on some 90s’/00’s shoegaze/dreampop type of reissues too. That music is just as important and emotionally charging to me as my love for new wave. I also feel there is a reasonable enough crossover between the genres that the followers of the label will be interested in these reissues as well. We are definitely interested in exploring releases by new artists. We do receive a lot of demos, etc. We are still looking for a good fit. I feel confident it will happen soon…

Gina X Performance and MATHEMATIQUES Modernes are being released together. Is this just a coincidence or is it intentional and what is the story on how you came to chose them for Medical Records? Obviously they fit in with your labels sound but do you have a personal story or attachment to these records?

—- There was not a master plan to reissue them together but I do think it worked out nicely. Mathematiques Modernes was a reissue I have been working on since before I formally started the label back in 2008 or so. It was a collaborative effort between myself, the band, and Celluloid. It just took a long time due to the parties involved being located here, Europe, and elsewhere. I am very proud of that record. It was crucial that it needed a reissue. As far as Gina X, I have been a longtime fan of “Nice Mover” and have been interested in reissuing it for some time. Once I decided to “move” on it, it was fairly easy to contact and work out an agreement with the producer, Zeus B. Held. It has been great working with him, and the record sounds fantastic especially with regards to the mastering for vinyl.

Medical Records has ramped up a bit in the last few months, do you plan to have a heavy release schedule for 2013?

—- Yes, we do. It seems we have about 2 records planned about every 2-3 months for the rest of the year. Very busy with multiple projects either confirmed or near confirmation. Several reissues done in collaboration with Crispy Nuggets that I mentioned above as well as our first Pacific Northwest reissue of Paul Nelson’s “Vortex” in collaboration with 2510 Records in Portland. A couple of other projects that I would love to discuss as well but way too early. You will just have to remain patient!

Any plans for Record Store Day special releases maybe…?

—- Sadly not this year. It has been hard with timing etc, but I would like to try to get organized to aim for a 2014 RSD release. No promises though. There seems to be enough to keep me busy that I am often distracted by the time I would need to plan a RSD release…

Check out Medical Records on facebook https://www.facebook.com/medicalrecordsllc

soundcloud https://soundcloud.com/medical-records-llc

and bandcamp http://medicalrecords.bandcamp.com/

Land of Blood and Sunshine-Servants of Light (Whoa! Boat...

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:02:00 -0400

Land of Blood and Sunshine-Servants of Light (Whoa! Boat Records)

Buy it here: http://www.whoaboatrecords.com/lobas2

Land of Blood and Sunshine captured my attention in early 2011 with their excellent 7” Phlegm Realm. It was a 4 song ep that stood leaps and bounds above anything I had heard in awhile. Fast forward a few years and their new full-length “Servants of Light” offers up twelve tracks of mind altering psychedelia that once again blew me away. I have found myself a little tired of modern psych. A few big names in the genre like the Black Angels and Wooden Shjips stunned me in the beginning but have spent too much time imitating The Doors. Now from the the freak folk side of things a band like Woods is creating excellent music that is more heavily indebted to the Grateful Dead. The Land of Blood and Sunshine fall somewhere in between creating inspired psych music that doesn’t lean on the organ or the ten minute jam keeping things limited to tight well crafted and catchy albeit quirky songs.. “Servants of Light” has everything going for it from the trippy gatefold art to the cabin in the woods cultish vibes, with track names like “Lunar Engine” and “Big Pygmy” what’s not to love? If this were a private press album from the 60’s collectors would be maxing out credit cards to get a copy of this 300 copy limited release. 100 copies are color and only 30 remain from the label the other 200 are on classic black. Land of Blood and Sunshine may be hidden away from prying eyes out in Iowa but just because they are not a household psych name doesn’t mean you would sleep on this album. I would highly recommend picking up a copy.

Interview with horror disco artist Antoni Maiovvi: The...

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 18:01:00 -0400

Interview with horror disco artist Antoni Maiovvi:

The Internet is a strange beast. Record stores and radio used to be my main source of discovering new artists now it’s youtube and soundcloud and random internet blogs. Italo disco has been of interest to me lately so a few short searches later I’m watching Antoni Maiovvi videos on youtube and really digging them. Then a few days later his name shows up as a record store day release on the Death Waltz record label and now I’m really interested in finding out about this guy. Luckily a few emails were exchanged and the man behind the musical persona Antoni Maiovvi agreed to answer some questions about his score for the short film Yellow and it’s upcoming vinyl treatment from Death Waltz Recording Co. (http://www.deathwaltzrecordingcompany.com/record-store-day/)

YELLOW a neo Giallo short film trailer from Ryan Haysom on Vimeo.

Record Store Day is fast approaching and the soundtrack you did for the short film Yellow is getting the vinyl treatment. First off how did you get involved on the Yellow project?

When Gianni and Myself were crowdfunding our Giallo Disco label, Ryan the director of Yellow was also crowdfunding for the film, we were both in Berlin at the time and met up. It’s wonderful, we’re very close friends now and it’s very much a case of ‘where were you all this time!’. Legendary Bromance Action…

Did they give you free reign on the music or did they have a direction they wanted the music to go in?

Ryan and I have pretty much exactly the same taste in film so he said “Manhunter & Tenebrae” and I knew instantly how that sounded. There were about three tracks I sent that weren’t in the film, but I sent them about 40 minutes of music initially.

Yellow is still making its way through festivals, is there a dvd release in the works?

There is a release for the crowdfunders, but the team is already working on the feature film and I’d imagine (although I don’t know for sure) that it would be included on that release.

Obviously you must be pleased with the results of the soundtrack. What’s it like to join the ranks of Carpenter and Frizzi on the Death Waltz label?

A little surreal, I mailed Steve Moore when I saw his name attached, I’ve tried to keep in contact with him since he said nice things about my work as I’m a big admirer of his work. We both agreed that given that our music wouldn’t be the same without Carpenter or Frizzi it’s an odd but amazing feeling. Given that Antoni Maiovvi started out as a fake Italian composer, who then became a cop, part time vigilante murderer and emotional karaoke singer, this whole thing has legitimized him in lots of ways. Needless to say, it’s awesome.

How did the idea for the Record Store Day release come about?

When the film showed at Fright Fest in London, Spencer Deathwaltz was tweeting about it so I just sent him the score via email and he loved it.

Your music has been called Horror Disco and your work shares similarities with the old horror soundtracks. What kind of influence has film had on your work?

I got into film when I was about 16 / 17 they showed all the Jess Franco films late at night and there was something about beautiful Mediterranean women, blood, nudity and freaky music that my teenage brain REALLY liked. I probably watch more films that I do listen to records, everything from 70s arthouse pornography to 80s comedies. I think the music is better in old horror and sci-fi though. I understand the problem, synth scores can make it sound cheap and strings add a touch of class, but hell.

You have cited Goblin, Tangerine Dream, and John Carpenter as influences, any other go to artists or records that you would like to share?

Italo Disco, old EBM, New Beat, Steve Moore, Bronnt Industries Kapital, Unit Black Flight, Vercetti Technicolor, David Kristian, Klaus Schulze, Neu!, Michael Garrison, Cyber Dance Records, Weidorje, Michael Stearns, Eduard Artemyev, Crème Org / Clone / Bunker Records, Umberto… I could go on and on about this…

Giallo Disco Records seems to be home to your new releases. What’s the story behind the label? (http://giallodiscorecords.bandcamp.com/)

Gianni (Vercetti Technicolor) and I were in a position in 2012 where no one would touch our music anymore for some reason, Gianni had been in a position where three labels changed their mind about a release, one even paid for a Legowelt remix before deciding not to continue! So the plan was just to start a vinyl label (Gianni and I both DJ with vinyl and are avid collectors) to give us a platform for our music that no one seemed to want. We crowdfunded enough pre-sales for the first pressing, then Clone in Rotterdam (the best record shop in the world!) for distribution, we were super happy, we never expected any of this to happen. People started sending us demos, really amazing artists that, personally, I never would have heard about any other way. Since we started the label both Gianni and I have a bunch of records coming out on other labels now. If you’re a young producer I would offer this as advice, DIY everything, speak to the distributors yourself and remember people take a physical release much more seriously.

Do you have plans for any future releases?

Next up is the long awaited solo release from label partner Vercetti Technicolor, then we have plans for releases from the amazing Alessandro Parisi from Italy. A new band called Izorzi from Paris. I can’t wait.

Red Jacket Mine-Someone Else’s Cake (Fin Records) Buy it...

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 18:39:23 -0400

Red Jacket Mine-Someone Else’s Cake (Fin Records)

Buy it here: http://finrecords.com/store/someone-elses-cake-lp

It’s no secret that Fin Records does some of the best packaging around and they keep upping the ante. The new Red Jacket Mine album has a seriously cool pop art vibe on the sleeve art and is a hand numbered edition of 500 on white vinyl with a custom inner sleeve that keeps up the fun artwork. “Someone Else’s Cake” is an album that lives in the realm of soulful power pop that is radio friendly to the max. If dusty copies of Elvis Costello, Joe Jackson, and Nick Lowe lps are living on your record shelf than you should make room for this lp. “Listen Up” and “Bellar & Bawl” were both released as singles as part of a limited edition colored vinyl series leading up to the release of the bands third full-length album. Leading man Lincoln Barr pairs smart songwriting with pop melodies and catchy lyrics that will have you nostalgic for the days when the power pop trio ruled the radio-waves.

Informatics-Dance to a Dangerous Beat (Dark Entries Records) buy...

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 18:00:00 -0400

Informatics-Dance to a Dangerous Beat (Dark Entries Records)

buy it here: http://www.darkentriesrecords.com/store/dark-entries/informatics-dance-to-a-dangerous-beat-lp/

If the buzzing, rumbling, chirping analog awesomeness of early electronic equipment like synths and drum machines is something that peaks your interest the new reissue of the Informatics early 80s material from Dark Entries will be a must have record for you. Australia is not exactly the first place you think of for cutting edge electro synth post-punk sounds so the Informatics are a bit of a gem. They were doing things in there own way using whatever electronic gear they could get their hands on. The songs mostly ended up being recorded in a very DIY fashion, mainly in a garage to a four-track tape machine. The result is really fantastic electronic music that runs through synth punk vibes and even has touches of krautrock on the instrumental track “Underlife.” “Proximity Switch” stands as their most popular over the years and it is easy to see why. Dance to a Dangerous Beat is really an excellent compilation of a band that was worlds away from the scene yet stood tall creating very innovative music that still sounds fresh today. The packaging and archival photos look great and the sounds are pressed up on classic black vinyl.

Interview with One Way Static Records a new soundtrack reissue...

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 20:20:00 -0400

Interview with One Way Static Records a new soundtrack reissue label out of Belgium that is gearing up for their first release the soundtrack to Wes Craven’s 1972 film The Last House on the Left. This will be a label to watch out for as they will soon join the ranks of the best reissue labels I predict!

One Way Static Records is a new record label. How did it all come about and what are your plans for launching the label?

Yes, we are brand-new and located in Belgium. Well, I myself have been involved in labels, distribution & producing records for over 13 years now. Soundtracks have been a passion of mine since I was a kid. I’ve always been impressed by the impact that sounds can have in combination with moving images. So the idea of starting a soundtrack label was always lingering somewhere in my mind you know. It was partially born out of frustration due to the fact that a lot of these scores are so hard to find or just plain non-existing. I just want to re-release these records so I can spin them myself & let others discover or re-visit these forgotten gems.

Do you plan on only doing reissues of soundtracks and if so how will you make the label stand out from the plethora of labels getting into the market right

now?

We mainly focus on reissues but we have an open mind towards more contemporary motion picture scores. We’ll see what the future brings. As for the many labels getting into the market, this has always been the case you know. Since the eighties labels like Varese, Beat, Cinevox and many others have been doing this. Those labels are still around as we speak. The last year has been really exciting with the rise of Death Waltz Records who released an incredible catalogue of killer soundtracks in just under a year’s time. Mondo from Austin is also releasing some awesome scores. I guess you can call us the new breed, releasing old material and giving it our personal touch and vision. For me standing out is not the main focus, our focus lays with quality. The recordings & the movies speak for themselves, they do the standing out.

Your first release is the soundtrack to Wes Craven’s 1972 film The Last House on the Left. How did that come about being the first release and do you have any special packaging plans for the vinyl?

I guess you can call it a labour of love. I first saw the movie on a crummy VHS tape about 20 years ago, the music’s been stuck in my head ever since. Together with the brutal imaginary it really made an impact on me, I just could not believe that such beautiful songs were used over scenes of extreme sadism. A thing that was undone at the time, but it worked and added to the movie’s cult status. I had to wait a long time to hear the complete score, keep in mind that those were the days when there was hardly any internet available, let alone this thing called Youtube. I re-discovered it when David Hess (the artist) released the score in 1999 on a limited CD. When I started thinking about doing OWS records, I just knew this had to be my first release. A choice that came with some consequenses :-) I’ve been working on it since June 2012, getting all rights and permissions, tracking down all the players involved, selecting bonus tracks and making sure it would turn out the way I envisioned it. Sometimes it was quite frustrating you know, seeing other labels releasing albums each month and me fighting to get this out. I could have done 3-4 releases by now, but I stuck with this one and I have no regrets, the support and response so far has been amazing. Packaging will be high end: gatefold sleeve, printed inner sleeve with EXTENSIVE liner notes, bonus flexi disk for the limited edition,… and so on. When you put this kind of effort & time in a release, you don’t want to slap it in a crappy package and be done with it.

What is in store for the future of the label?

Top secret my man! But if you like the LHOTL release you’ll love what’s up next.

What labels inspire you?

I mostly get inspired by labels who put a lot of effort in their releases. Labels that have a strong concept/vision or release high quality products. Labels that come to mind are :

Light In The Attic They are very diverse in terms of their release catalog, but you can count on it that every release they put out is hand-picked for it’s quality and historical importance. They top all this of with high end packaging and a great service. As a matter of fact, they are our North American mail-order & distribution partner, the place to get OWS releases in the US & Canada. Really happy about this.

Death Waltz Records Spencer who runs DW is man with great vision who sticks to his concept. He runs his label the way he wants it, a thing I have the utmost respect for. Every DW release is a classic score you can just add to your collection without hesitation, complete with cover art by the best established and upcoming artists in the scene. We became good friends and sworn enemies in the last year and we try to promote each other’s stuff, something that came naturally since we share similar interest in music and movies. We are now teaming up to bring fans and collectors a vinyl/OST forum. This will be a great community space for people to hang and interact with each other, ask us questions or just waste time on. ! SPIN THE BLACKEST CIRCLES !

Are you a vinyl collector?

That goes without saying, over the years my spectrum broadened (a sad thing for my wallet). I started collecting UK punk, US Hardcore, Wave,… back in the days. These days I collect a lot of French stuff like Gainsbourg, Piaf,… I also found a renewed passion for Country and Bluegrass. Very diverse collecting as you can see.

What are some of your go to releases over the years?

Ooh, though one. There are so many of them. But I can recommend the following blindly:

Joy Division ‘Unknown Pleasures’ No explanation needed on this one.

The Adverts ‘Crossing The Read Sea’ 1978 UK punk in it’s purest form.

Johnny Cash ‘San Quentin/Folsom Prison’ Those records are classics every household needs.

Fabio Frizzi ‘The Beyond OST’ One of the most epic soundtracks ever composed.

Black Flag ‘My War’ This is the go to record when you are angry.

Goblin ‘Suspiria OST’ Italian prog-rock that will haunt you in your sleep.

Sebastiaan Putseys

One Way Static Records

www.onewaystatic.com

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Fall of Saigon (Dark Entries Records) buy it...

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:01:00 -0400

Fall of Saigon (Dark Entries Records)

buy it here: http://www.darkentriesrecords.com/store/dark-entries/fall-of-saigon-untitled-ep/

Dark Entries is a label that comes highly recommended by Troy of Medical Records whose releases have been covered in depth here at RAD Vinyl so it is with great pleasure that I spin Dark Entries latest release from France’s Fall of Saigon. The 6 song ep was originally released in 1983 and 30 years later these songs stand as the only release by the trio of Florence Berthon (Vocals), Pascal Comelade (Organ, Synth) and Thierry Den (Guitar, Vocals). With rudimentary equipment including a drum machine with little more than a few stock beats and a tempo adjuster the group crafted 6 ultra minimal tracks stripped of intros, outros and bridges. Armed with a love of groups like their namesake This Heat, Suicide, and The Velvet Underground, Fall of Saigon recorded the album in two stages with two tracks featuring Thierry Den’s vocals while the other four feature Florence’s gorgeous whispered vocals. The simplistic drone of the drum machine could easily be distracting in other bands but the Fall of Saigon manage to work with what they have and create moody post-punk with ghostly melodies both on the synths and vocals.”So Long” is an incredible song featuring an acoustic guitar paired with a samba like drum machine patch that creates an atmosphere of nostalgia and longing. The drumless last track “The Swimmer” is a haunting masterpiece that is not to be missed. It’s easy to see Fall of Saigon’s mark on the music that was to come with bands such as Stereolab and Beach House and thankfully Dark Entries pressed up a new batch of this EP that is ripe for rediscovery.

fairweatherfriend “You and I” 7inch (Fort Lowell...

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 18:06:00 -0400

fairweatherfriend “You and I” 7inch (Fort Lowell Records)

buy it here:

http://fortlowell.blogspot.com/

Fort Lowell has been an interesting and eclectic label to follow and with the release of the fairweatherfriend “You and I” single they have really grabbed my attention by diving into the showgaze/dream pop pool which is especially timely with the release of the new My Bloody Valentine record. Shoegazers across the globe are dusting off their 90’s records and remembering a time when music was more than an mp3. For four fellows out of Arizona they do an incredible job of channeling a very english sounding other worldliness of blurry eyed romanticism. They have some ethereal guitar tones and hushed vocals that are catchy and draw you in. They don’t have the bite of Kevin Sheilds incredible guitar wall but they make up for it in the vocals and melodies department where the new MBV album falls a bit short. Fairweatherfriend stands tall on their own though and takes and old sound and keeps it sounding polished and fresh. This release is hand numbered and limited to 500 on a gorgeous red/maroon marbled vinyl with a very classy black and white sleeve and I recommend you check it out.

R. Stevie Moore- I Missed July b/w I Traded My Heart For Your...

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 17:45:00 -0500

R. Stevie Moore- I Missed July b/w I Traded My Heart For Your Parts

buy it now from Sweaters & Pearls Records

http://sweatersandpearls.com/

I am late to the R Stevie Moore party. Just a few months ago he clicked for me and I have been madly trying to find his stuff on vinyl and even cassette. He is a prolific home recording artist with a catalog that spreads over four decades and numbers in the triple digits somewhere in the range of 400 records. It is hard to quality control or weed through that many albums for the uninitiated. Thankfully for the Sweaters & Pearls 7” Mr. Moore hand picked two tracks that are separated by nearly sixteen years and they are both gems pressed into a very cool redish pink vinyl. Moore mixes humor into his quirky song arrangements and keeps things catchy lighthearted and seriously incredible. R. Stevie Moore is a legend and there is no better time than now to jump on the bandwagon or revisit and old friend. Here is to hoping Sweaters & Pearls does a whole 7” archival series of Moore’s work. For those on top of things the first 50 records were silk screened covers and this release is limited to 300 so act fast.

Also check out Jason of Sweaters & Pearls other site where he writes about vinyl great stuff from a great guy!

http://7inches.blogspot.com/

Plates of Cake-Teenage Evil (Uninhabitable Mansions) Buy it...

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 18:19:57 -0500

Plates of Cake-Teenage Evil (Uninhabitable Mansions)

Buy it here: http://uninhabitablemansions.com/objects/um027-teenage-evil/

When I received this Plates of Cake lp the first thing I noticed was the name Jonathan Byerley and the note of familiarity it rang inside of me. At first I thought maybe I reviewed something by him already but after a little bit of searching it was obvious that was not the case. I couldn’t for the life of me place the name. A glance at the bio says they are from Colorado originally but are now in New York. All of the sudden the name and place starts to come together. I walk into the basement into my band practice area and hanging on the wall is a poster for a show my band played years ago in Minneapolis and lo and behold the name Jon Byerley. I have a vague recollection of a guy with an acoustic guitar and a trumpet player from Colorado. Years later he is heading up the indie rock quartet Plates of Cake who are set to release their new album March 26th. Eleven mid tempo grizzled rock songs populate “Teenage Evil” including a fitting cover for Byerley’s vocals “Underwater Moonlight” by the Soft Boys. This isn’t quite bar rock or country rock but it has a southern dusty road, pull up a bar stool and have a tall glass of whiskey vibe worthy of a few blurry eyed spins. Certainly recommended for fans of Robyn Hitchcock or The Silver Jews.