Profiles

Pleased (2023)

Eoghan Lyng is impressed by 'Pleased', a new anthology of short stories, each of which have been inspired by The Beatles' 'Please Please Me'.

Albums

Pillows and Prayers (2022)

Cherry Red celebrates the 40th anniversary of its iconic label sampler ‘Pillows and Prayers’ with a new, expanded version. Tommy Gunnarsson takes us along for the ride.

C85 (2022)

Cherry Red is finally going back in time from the iconic ‘C86’ compilation to bring us this three CD box set of early UK indiepop, and Tommy Gunnarsson surely is delighted.

Before the Day is Done: The Story of Folk Heritage Records (1968-1975) (2022)

Tommy Gunnarsson enjoys ‘Before the Day is Done’, the third instalment in a folk anthology series from Grapefruit which focuses on the obscure Folk Heritage label between 1968 and 1975.

Reviews

Intact and Smiling: The Weird and Wonderful World of Tapete Records Vol. 1 (2023)

German indie label Tapete Records celebrated their first 20 years in 2022, and this double album compiles 28 poppy and upbeat songs from acts like Comet Gain, Robert Forster and Lloyd Cole.

Musik, Music, Musique 3.0: 1982 – Synth Pop on the Air’ (2023)

Impressive box set in which Cherry Red continues to explore the early days of synth pop in the third instalment of the ‘Musik, Music, Musique’ series

Cherry Stars Collide: Dream Pop, Shoegaze and Ethereal Rock 1986-1995 (2023)

Follow-up of sorts to 2016’s ‘Still in a Dream’ shoegaze compilation, which goes on to compile songs from the dream pop, shoegaze and ethereal rock movements

The Hacienda 1982 (2022)

2022 sees Manchester’s iconic club The Hacienda celebrate its 40th anniversary, and Cherry Red has compiled four CDs worth of tracks associated with the club’s first year.

Kids On The Street - UK Power Pop and New Wave 1977-1981 (2022)

Eagerly-awaited follow-up to the much acclaimed ‘Harmony In My Head which packs three CDs full of smashing UK punk pop and new wave goodness

Music for New Romantics (2022)

Often surprising new three CD compilation which celebrates the legendary New Romantic scene in the best possible way

Heroes & Villains – The Sound Of Los Angeles 1965-1968, (2022)

Excellent three-disc retrospective, which fifty years after the original release of the iconic 'Nuggets' album, compiles together music from the LA scene of 1965-68, and the garage/psychedelic/pop sounds of California

Un-Scene! Post-Punk Birmingham 1978-1982 (2022)

Extensive and well-presented compilation of Birmingham indie and post-punk bands between 1978 and 1982

I Love To See You Strut – More ’60s Mod, RNB, Brit Soul and Freakbeat Nuggets, (2022)

Rollercoaster ride of pop melodies and blues rock on long-awaited follow-up to the esteemed RPM mod/freakscene compilations

Revolt Into Style 1979 (2022)

Enjoyable and eclectic three CD post punk and alternative music from 1979 from Cherry Red

C91 (2022)

Next instalment in Cherry Red’s successful C-series is ‘C91’, which shows that 1991 was a bad year for indie music, but the compilation itself is a joy to behold

V4Velindre (2021)

Worthwhile and impeccably chosen 50-track mixtape to raise money for Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff.

Straight to the Head: Jogibs Records Presents Knockout Sounds (2021)

Mixed bag of styles and quality in this compilation of early reggae from Joe Gibbs, who became one of the music’s pre-eminent producers.

Generation Blitz (2021)

Highly impressive compilation that pays homage to ground-breaking early 1980s club Blitz which created the New Romantic movement

Made to Measure Vol. 1 (2021)

Re-issue of abstract and new wave compilation from 1984.on Belgian label Crammed Discs

Party for Joey: A Sweet Relief Tribute to Joey Spampinato (2021)

Fantastic covers project and charity compilation album for NRBQ bassist and songwriter Joey Spampinato, who is undergoing long-term treatment for cancer

Good as Gold – Artefacts of the Apple Era 1967-1975 (2021)

Enthralling five CD compilation of songs associated with Apple Records, founded by these Fab Four, proves a great look into the more forgotten parts of the 60's pop scene in the UK

The Mountains, The Sun And The Sea – The Art of Antonio Carlos Jobim (2021)

Fantastic five CD compilation from Cherry Red of the early recordings of bossa nova artist and pioneering 50’s composer Carlos Antonio Jobim

Riding The Rock Machine: British Seventies Classic Rock (2021)

Well-researched three CD box set which provides to the listener with a compelling sonic history of 1970's rock's lesser-known acts as well as also its legends

Shake the Foundations: Militant Funk and the Post-Punk Dancefloor 1978-1984 (2021)

Impressive three CD box set from Cherry Red follows up the success of their previous post-punk box sets with this reflection into the more danceable part of the scene

Musik Music Musique (2020)

Essential and insightful three CD box set focusing on the groundbreaking year in synth pop of 1980 from Cherry Red

Roots, Rock, Reggae (2020)

Superb late 1970's reggae compilation re-released on double CD by Cherry Red with extra tracks

Martin Green Presents: Super Sonics - 40 Junkshop Britpop Greats (2020)

Excellently presented double CD from Cherry Red which compiles together some of the more obscure and less well known bands of the Britpop era

Surrender to the Rhythm: The London Pub Rock Scene of the 70s (2020)

Excellent and exhaustive Cherry Red box set celebrates the under-rated era of ‘70s UK pub rock

A Slight Disturbance In My Mind (2020)

Cherry Red’s new compilation of the UK experimental pop of 1966 that blossomed into psychedelia shows how diverse the style really was

Kinshasa 1978: Originals and Reconstructions 1978 (2020)

Excellent double album which contains previously-unreleased recordings originally recorded in 1978 of four influential World Music bands from Kinshasa in the Congo in Africa.

Go Mod (2019)

Marvellous double vinyl compilation of classic 60's Mod recordings on the always excellent Charly Records

Beautiful Freaks: Waving Our Flag High, Wave On, Wave On (2019)

Fabulous compilation from the TAD label which journeys back to the late 1960’s counterculture

Nigeria 70: No Wahala: Highlife, Afro-Funk and Juju 1973-1987 (2019)

Excellent compilation of previously unreleased African pop, funk and rock, the first in the 'Nigeria 70' series in over eight years

Yesterday and Today: A Tribute to Yes (2019)

Fine compilation album from a series of top-notch musicians, including statesmen from historic line-ups, who pay excellent tribute to Yes on the celebration of the band’s 50th Anniversary

Running the Voodoo Down 2: Explorations in Psychrockfunksouljazz 1965-77 (2019)

Appealing and diverse compilation of tracks from the mid 60s to 70s which capture the political confusion and changes of those years

Spaciousness (2018)

Hit and miss CD and double vinyl compilation from Lo Recordings in which various electronic and alternative artists examine the theme of spaciousness

Disques Debs International Volume 1: An Island Story (2018)

Excellent compilation, the first in a series, of early tracks recorded between 1960-1972 from extraordinary French-Caribbean label Disques Debs International

Sing and They’ll Sing Your Song (2018)

Excellent compilation from versatile and durable UK label Megaphone Music, which provides a wonderful introduction to and evaluation of its main acts

Strange Angels: In Flight with Elmore James (2018)

Fabulous new compilation which in celebration of blues legend Elmore James finds his work interpreted by a variety of contemporary artists in a delightful way

Sky Music: A Tribute to Terje Rypdal (2017)

Versatile tribute album from all star Norwegian supergroup and friends who gather together to celebrate the 70th birthday of legendary guitarist Terje Rypdal

Silhouettes and Statues: A Gothic Revolution (2017)

Definitive five CD box set from Cherry Red which explores the history of Gothic music

Milk of the Tree (2017)

Beautifully presented three CD box set of female voiced folk music covering the period 1966 to 1973, which, steering clear for the main part of the expected selections, is in the running for box set of the year

Running the Voodoo Down (2017)

Extraordinary double CD compilation which traces America’s late 1960's explosion of funk, psychedelic rock, soul, and jazz over twenty-three stunning tracks

Just Go Wild Over Rock and Roll (2017)

Fantastic double CD which salutes Chicago’s Chess Records and both its celebrated and lesser known heroes

Back on the Street Again (2017)

Fabulous twenty-track compilation of Australian funk and rock which has been compiled from the Festival label vaults, and is possibly their strongest set to date

Feeling Good: Funk, Soul and Deep Jazz Gems; The Supreme Sound of Bob Shad (2017)

Wonderful compilation of jazz, funk and blues recordings produced by Bob Shad for his legendary Mainstream Records label which includes often under heard tracks from artists such as Afrique and Alice Clark

Cologne Curiosities: The Unknown Kraut Rock Underground 1972-1976 (2016)

Appealing compilation of largely obscure Krautwork recorded in Cologne betwwen 1972 and 1976

The Food of Love Project (2016)

Outstanding compilation of contemporary recordings of Shakespearean and other Elizabethan age songs by various folk and experimental artists released to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare this year

Get Back (2016)

Excellent DVD documentary which tells of Liverpool's music history from the 1950s until now

Black Gold (2016)

Fascinating compilation which contains exceptional moments as well as the occasional filler, but works extremely well as a tribute to Chess Records

I’m A Freak Baby (2016)

Fantastic 3-CD Cherry Red Records’ box set which traces the history of the darker side of psychedelia from 1966-1972

Wilko Johnson Presents: The First Time I Met the Blues (2016)

Appealing double CD compilation curated by Dr Feelgood guitarist Wilko Johnson which is a love letter to his early blues and Chess Records influences

Cosmic Machine - The Sequel (2016)

Fascinating compilation of 70’s and 80’s early French experimental electronic music

Heavy Psych Sounds Records (2016)

Flawless collection of stoner, doom and psychedelic rock from Italian record label, Heavy Psych Sounds

Aloha Got Soul: Soul, AOR and Disco in Hawaii 1979-1985 (2016)

Undiscovered rarities compilation of Hawaiian soul and funk which will be irresistible to soul collectors and fans

Soul Sok Séga: Sounds from Mauritius 1973-1979 (2016)

Excellent double CD compilation of lost soul and funk tracks from 1970's Mauritius

Wayfaring Strangers: Cosmic American Music (2016)

Fascinating compilation of obscure and lost country rock tracks, which were recorded between 1968 and 1980

Joy of Living: A Tribute to Ewan MacColl (2015)

Excellent tribute album to celebrate the centenary of folk singer Ewan MacColl’s birth, which includes covers by artists including Steve Earle, Jarvis Cocker, Billy Bragg, Paul Brady and Damien Dempsey

Go Cat Go! The Essential Rockabilly Collection (2015)

Appealing collection of rockabilly classic and rare cuts, which while rough aaroudn the edges, still is worthy of time and attention

Jazz on a Summer’s Day (2015)

Illuminating CD/DVD package of Bert Stern's influential documentary of 1958's Newport Jazz Festival which featured Louis Armstrong, Thelonius Monk and Mahalia Jackson

Psychemagik presents Magik Sunset - Part Two (2015)

Dreamy and comprehensive, the latest Psychemagik compilation inserts a tropical flavour into background music

Front Line Presents Reggae Discomixes (2015)

Fabulous two CD retrospective which compiles together mixes from 1975 to 1981 from the outstanding reggae label Front Line

Island Records Presents Reggae Discomixe (2015)

Fabulous double CD of extended 70's mixes with which Island Records goes back to its roots to prove once again that reggae’s got soul

The Twisted Wheel, Manchester 1963-71 (2015)

Excellent Northern Soul Compilation straight from the turntables of Manchester's legendary Twisted Wheel Club

The Scene Club, Ham Yard, London 1963-66 (2015)

Excellent compilation of both obscure and classic Northern Soul and R and B tracks, which first came to prominence at the influential Scene Club in London between 1963 and 1966

Rock! Wreck! And Rule (2015)

Fantastic double CD compilation which provides an informative history into the psychobilly genre

Next Stop Soweto Vol. 4: Zulu Rock, Afro Disco and Mbaqanga 1975-1985 (2015)

Infectious fourth compilation in excellent series which records the progress of the South African music scene, and, which taking in punk, funk and disco influences, examines the years between 1975 and 1985

F the B EP2 (2015)

Enjoyable second compilation EP from drum and bass label Emotif, which compiles together some of its best tarcks

Alice in Wonderland and Other Rainy Day (2015)

Evocatively packaged but hit and miss double compilation of lost Southern US 60’s pop, garage and psychedelic bands

Christmas Joy in Full Measure (2015)

Uneven but enjoyable Christmas compilation from the Hands of Glory label which includes tracks from Papernut Cambridge, the Young Knives and the Webb Brothers

Psych for Sore Eyes (2014)

Excellent, beautifully-packaged double 7 inch EP, the second in an occasional vinyl series, which highlights some of the best new psych acts

God Help the Girl: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (2014)

Engaging soundtrack to Belle and Sebastian singer Stuart Murdoch’s forthcoming cinema film, which features new versions of songs from his 2009 project of the same name

40 Years: Volume One: Classic Hits (2014)

Inspirational sampler CD to celebrate their fortieth anniversary from reissue label Charly Records, which includes tracks among others from Curtis Mayfield, the Small Faces, Chris Farlowe and the 13th Floor Elevators

Bob Dylan In The 80's: Volume One (2014)

Effective tribute album of songs from Bob Dylan's ignored 80's albums, which includes covers from Built to Spill, Craig Finn, Hannah Cohen, Dawn Landes and Bonnie Prince Billy

Music for Linda (2014)

Fine charity EP in tribute to Linda McCartney, which appears with a calendar designed by Beatles illustrator Alan Aldridge and features several McCartney-penned covers from acts including Living Colour and Caroline Pennell

4 Bands Split Vol. 1 (2014)

First-rate compilation album from Rome-based label Heavy Pysch Sounds, which showcases four bands, NAAM, White Hills, Black Rainbows and the Flying Eyes

The Del Shannon Tribute: Songwriter, Volume 1 (2014)

First-rate tribute album to 60’s singer-songwriter and rock and roll artist Del Shannon, which includes covers from Frank Black, Kelley Ryan and Don Dixon

Looking Into You: A Tribute to Jackson Browne (2014)

Impressive tribute album to Jackson Browne, which includes covers from Don Henley, Lyle Lovett, Lucinda Williams and Bruce Springsteen

Haiti Direct (2014)

Excellent double CD compilation that examines the under-explored but rich musical landscape of Haiti in the 1960s and 1970s

The Clutha Sessions (2013)

Superb charity compilation album released to raise money for the families of the victims of the Clutha tragedy

Love, Peace and Revolution (2013)

Enthralling three CD box set which examines the British psychedelic and underground movement of between 1966 and 1972

A Brilliant Escape (2013)

Superb eighteen track free download compilation sampler from Ottawa-based label This Beautiful Music, which includes artists such as Dot Dash, Roy Moller and the Model Spy

Zambient One (2013)

Intriguing compilation from ZTT which mixes together remixes from their own and Stiff Records’ back catalogue for an imaginary road trip from London to Ibiza

Way to Blue: The Songs of Nick Drake (2013)

Fine Nick Drake tribute album which, recorded live at concerts in Melbourne and London, includes contributions from Vashti Bunyan, Danny Thompson, Green Gartside and Robyn Hitchcock

West of Memphis: Voices for Justice (2013)

Challenging and thought-provoking album which is the soundtrack to a recent documentary film, which, including tracks from Johnny Depp, Nick Cave and Lucinda Williams, tells the story of the West Memphis Three whom were wrongfully convicted for the murder of three eight year old boys in 1993

From Monotreme Records With Love (2012)

Fabulous compilation celebrating their ten years in the music business from London-based indepedent label, Monotreme Records

Lowe Country: The Songs of Nick Lowe (2012)

Fine tribute compilation from a collection of up-and-coming artists to British singer-songwriter, Nick Lowe

This is BBC Radio 6 Music Live (2012)

Superb double CD collection of live performances by musicians including Elbow, Arcade Fire and Amy Winehouse for BBC Radio 6 Music

Weirdlore: Notes from the Underground (2012)

Outstanding eighteen track compilation, originally planned to accompany a cancelled festival, of previously unreleased tracks from both well-established and unfamiliar psychedelic-folk artists

Freedom Sounds (2012)

Fabulous five CD bset from reggae label Trojan Records, released to coincide with the fiftieth anniversary of Jamaican independence

Harbour of Songs (2012)

Heartbreakingly brilliant compilation album, which includes contributions from Janis Ian, Villagers, Ralph McTell, the Unthanks and author Nick Hornby, and takes its inspiration from the Lone Twin Boat project, which is made entirely of wooden items donated by the public

Eccentric Soul: A Red Green Black Production (2012)

Fantastic compilation of lost 1970's soul releases, the work of Robert Hosea Williams, an underrated Washington DC producer

The Art of the 12 Inch, Volume Two (2012)

Fresh-sounding second collection of remixes from the influential 80's label ZTT, which includes tracks from the Art of Noise, Paul McCartney, Frankie Goes To Hollywood and 808 State

The Secret Sessions (2012)

Enthralling and long unavailable 1978 album from super group, which inlcudes Ian Hunter, Mick Ronson, Felix Pappalardi and Corky Laing

Thirty One (2012)

Fantastic double CD charity compilation in aid of CALM, a Manchester-based suicide helpline of which late Factory Records boss Tony Wilson was a founder, and which includes tracks from Elbow, Durutti Column and Noel Gallagher as well as new band such as the Whips and No Ceremony

Sixties Transition (2012)

Fantastic compilation from the archive of producer and one-time Byrds manager Jim Dickson, which compiles tracks from some of the most important artists in West Coast rock, including, as well as the Byrds, David Crosby, the Hillmen, Leon Russell and Dino Valenti

Late Night Tales-MGMT (2011)

Understated but fabulous compilation curated by MGMT as part of the the Late Night Tales series

Psychedelic Pernambuco (2011)

Challenging and adventurous psychedelia on compilation of once banned Brazilian music which was recorded at the time of military dictatorship in 1968

The Hit Sounds of the Dub Pistols at Midnight (2011)

Glorious collection of reggae and dub tunes from the Hit Sounds and Midnight Rock labels, compiled together by Dub Pistols front man, Barry Ashworth

Skanky Panky Vol. 3 (2011)

Original-sounding and versatile five band EP from Canadian label, Skanky Panky

Ever/Girly (2011)

Fantastic split single from fresh Edinburgh-based talents, Dead Boy Robotics and the Machine Room

Model Village / The Puncture Repair Kit (2011)

Mediocre vinyl only split single from Cambridge-based bands, Model Village and the Puncture Repair Kit.

Late Night Tales-Midlake (2011)

Comforting folk music which, including tracks by Bjork, Beach House, the Flying Burrito Brothers and Nico, was selected for the 'Late Night Tales' series by acclaimed Texan-based band, Midlake

37th State (2011)

Somewhat unsatisfying two CD collection of Nigerian funk covers by UK funk artists, saved by its second CD of remixes

The Matinee Holiday Soiree (2011)

Enjoyable holiday EP from the ever reliable Matinee Recordings, which is one to pick up for next Christmas

Kris Needs Presents...Dirty Water: The Birth of Punk Attitude (2010)

In-depth and informative two-disc compilation from journalist and DJ Kris Needs, exploring the influences of punk and extending from the 1950s to the mid 1970s

Black Hole (Californian Punk 1977-80) (2010)

Fascinating 26 track compilation of first wave of well known and obscure 1970's Californian punk acts, compiled together by music journalist Jon Savage

New Heavy Sounds Volume One (2010)

Superb sampler compilation from London-based club night and new label New Heavy Sounds which has tracks from nineteen rising UK metal bands

Bustin' Out Vol 3: 1983 New Wave to New Beat (2010)

Fantastic introduction to the roots of popular electronic music in third volume in the 'Bustin' Out' series, each of which concentrates on a different year in influential 1980's music

Top Dog: A Retrospective of Classic TV and Radio Themes 1960-1982 (2010)

Fabulous compilation of classic TV and radio themes from the 1960s through to the early 1980s

The Australianacity of Hope: A Quick Guide to Indie Australia (2010)

Worthwhile compilation featuring tracks from and showcasing eight of Brisbane's finest alternative bands

Re-Wired EP Volume 1 (2010)

Excellent four track EP compilation from the Studio Rockers label which provides a showcase for four of the best new acts on the current dub scene

All Those Times We Spent Together: A Tribute to the Television Personalitie (2010)

Admirable Television Personalities tribute album from Canadian label The Beautiful Music, the third in a series of ten that it planning to release

Ten Years of Trunkfunk (2010)

First-rate retrospective CD compiled together by label owner Frederik Nyberg of ten years of Swedish house/clubbing label Trunkfunk putting out music

Bustin' Out 1982: New Wave to New Beat Volume 2 (2010)

Captivating second compilation in the 'Bustin' Out' series, which in this instalment focuses on 1982 and largely on the pioneering electronic groups of that year

Coal Country Music (2010)

Excllent enviromentally-friendly charity compilation against mountain destruction which includes both covers and original songs from artists such as John Prine, Gillian Welch and Bonnie Raitt

The Psychedelic Sounds of the Sonic Cathedral (2010)

Intriguing tribute covers collection on the Sonic Cathedral label to psychedelic pioneers Roky Erickson and the 13th Floor Elevators

Asseteria: Live from Uranus (2010)

Relentless-sounding and modern dance album mixed and compiled by New York-based DJ/producer Chriss Vargus

Skanky Panky Vol 1. (2010)

Dull and tediously silly debut compilation EP from new Canadian label Skanky Panky

Bustin' Out: New Wave to New Beat: The Post Punk Era 1979-1981 (2010)

Expansive fourteen song compilation of post-punk, which concentrates on the years between 1979 and 1981

The Matinee Grand Prix (2010)

Versatile indie pop on compilation album from Matinee Records, which has tracks amongst others from Tender Trap, the Lucksmiths and Strawberry Whiplash

Nowhere Boy: Original Soundtrack (2010)

Flawed, but fascinating double CD album which compiles together songs from the recent John Lennon biopic 'Nowhere Boy' and also some of the songs that influenced the Beatles

Mind Control Addicted (2010)

Excellent, but youth-oriented collection of dance mixes from acclaimed DJ duo Richie Santana and Peter Bailey

The Best is Yet to Come: The Songs of Cy Coleman (2010)

Excellent compilation album which featuring contributions from a collection of female artists including Fiona Apple, Madeline Peyroux and Patty Griffin reworks thirteen of the songs of legendary New York songwriter Cy Coleman

NME Album 2009 (2009)

Predictable, but pleasant double CD compilation of tracks from some of the NME's favourite bands of the year, including Temper Trap, Enter Shikari, the Horrors, the Enemy, Franz Ferdinand, Muse, Kasabian and Maximo Park

Come O Spirit!: Anthology Of Hymns And Spiritual Songs, Volume 1 (2009)

Sublime and magical country-influenced compilation of hymns and spiritual songs

Bite Harder (2009)

Enjoyable collection of obscure, but funky-sounding film and adverts music mainly from the 60's and 70's

Blasting Concept (2009)

Frantic-sounding avant-garde compilation and concept album, which collects together recordings from experimental musicians from Scandinavia, Holland, Japan and the USA

Park Lane Archives (2009)

Fascinating compilation of demos and alternative versions recorded at Glasgow's influential Park Lane Studios, recorded by then up-and-coming Scottish bands of the 80's such as Del Amitri, the Bluebells, Gun, Altered Images and Hipsway

Lost Highways (2009)

Lovingly put together and presented compilation of 1920s to 1950s American road trip-themed songs from innovative Liverpudlian label, Viper

Crayon Angel: A Tribute to the Music of Judee Sill (2009)

Excellent tribute album for tragic 7O's singer-songwriter Judee Sill, which inluces two previously lost songs and tracks from Beth Orton, Bill Callahan,Ron Sexsmith, Frida Hyvönen and Trembling Blue Stars

Tru Thoughts 10th Anniversary (2009)

Excellent double CD retrospective released to celebrate the tenth anniversary of highly acclaimed jazz and soul label and club, Tru Thoughts

Ciao My Shining Star: The Songs of Mark Mulcahy (2009)

Excellent tribute album, which features twenty one tracks from twenty one artists including Thom Yorke and Michael Stipe, for American singer-songwriter Mark Mulcahy, whose wife Melissa died suddenly last year

Heart and Soul: An Edition 59 Compilation (2009)

Excellent combination of indie pop and psychedelia, which features five artists, on new compilation EP from German label Edition 59 Records

Brand Neu! (2009)

Erratic and uneven tribute album to influential 7O's German experimental group Neu!, which includes contributions from Sonic Youth, Primal Scream and School of Seven Bells

Blue Skies Daisy Days (2009)

Fantastic 21 track shoegazing/indie rock benefit compilation from American label Planting Seeds Records, which includes tracks from International Jetsetters, A.M. Vibe, the Tamborines,the Left Outsides, the Loose Salute and the See See

A Psychedelic Guide to Monsterism Island (2009)

Eclectic and eccentric entirely instrumental album, which featuring tracks by musicians such as Jerry Dammers, Gruff Rhys and the Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, takes its inspiration from the cartoons of Welsh illustrator and cartoonist, Pete Fowler

Cathedral Classics Volume One (2009)

Superb compilation that consists of tracks from the now hard-to-find first twelve 7 inch releases from Nu Gaze label, Sonic Cathedral.

It's a Misery Business (2009)

Enjoyable compilation album. featuring metal/punk acts such as Nickleback, Biffy Clyro and Gallows, which explores the darker side of romance

War Child Heroes (2009)

Decidely up and down collection of covers of classic songs from the likes of the Kooks, Duffy, Lily Allen and Rufus Wainwright for the War Child charity

Be True to Your School : A Fortuna Pop Compilation (2008)

Handy, but somewhat hit-and-miss retrospective compilation from the Fortuna Pop label, much of which originally came out on vinyl and has never been available on CD before

Kung Fu Super Sounds (2008)

Eccentric collection of previously unreleased soundtracks from Hong Kong film company the Shaw Brothers' kung fu films

Dreams Come True (Classic First Wave Electro 1982-87) (2008)

Classy collection of botgh well-known and more obscure 80's electronica, compiled together by music journalist and author of 'England's Dreaming' Jon Savage

Bip Hop Generation Vol. 9 (2008)

Pleasing compilation of obscure contemporary electronica from six artists and groups from all around Europe

Oakenfold Anthems (2008)

Fine three CD compilation of remixes from techno-trance DJ Paul Oakenfold, who has worked with the likes of Madonna, U2, the Utah Saints, the KLF and Underworld

My Blueberry Nights (Music From The Motion Picture) (2008)

Enjoyable soundrtrack album which includes exclusive tracks from Norah Jones, who also stars in the film, and Ry Cooder

Disco Not Disco (Post Punk, Electro & Leftfield Disco Classics 1974-1986) (2008)

Excellent compilation of post-punk and electro tracks from the 70's and 80's

Juno (Music From The Motion Picture) (2008)

Standard American indie film soundtrack for run-of-the-mill and copycat new film, 'Juno'

Brew Records : Volume One (2008)

Diverse compilation and first CD from the new Brew label, which showcases some of the best bands on the Leeds scene

Rough Trade Shops Counter Culture 07 (2008)

Variable compilation in their annual 'Counter Culture' series from the Rough Trade label including sveral of the main acts on the current alternative scene including Dan Deacon, No Age, Pete & the Pirates, Von Sudenfed and Of Montreal

Matinee Hit Parade (2008)

Fine 10th anniversary compilation from American indiepop label Matinee which features several of the main acts on its current roster including the Lucksmiths, the Guild League, the Math and Physics Club, Harper Lee, the Hermit Crabs and the Would-Be-Goods

Now That's What We Call Music Vol. 1 (2008)

Enjoyable tenth anniversary sampler from the Fantastic Plastic label, which showcases most of its acts including Bearsuit, the Futureheads, the Guillemots and the Victorian English Gentlemen’s Club

Anthems from the Phantom (2007)

Eclectic new fourteen song compilation from Sheffield-based label Phantom Power Records which includes tracks from the Repomen, Screaming Mimi and Deltasound, and has something for all tastes

The Cake Sale (2007)

Excellent Irish charity album for Oxfam which features unreleased and specially recorded tracks from acts including Neil Hannon, the Frames' Glen Hansard, Nina Persson, Josh Ritter and Gary Lightbody

Dream Frequencies Volume #1 (2007)

Appealing compendium of experimental, drone and avant-garde acts which has been released on the avant-garde London group the Telescopes' own Antenna label

There's Only One T in Wichita (2007)

Surprisingly effective collection of remixes and album rejects on new budget-priced compilation from the Wichita label, which includes tracks from Bloc Party, Les Savy Fav, Espers and the Cribs

Hallam Foe : The Original Soundtrack (2007)

Dull soundtrack album to new Jamie Bell film 'Hallam Foe', which features acts such as Orange Juice, Blueboy, Sons and Daighters, Woodbine and the Bill Wells Trio

Country Girl : New Sounds of the Old West Vol 5 (2007)

Effective fifth instalment of Loose’ ongoing occasional ‘New Sounds Of The Old West’ series, which this time focuses its attentions on women performers from across the alt country/Americana spectrum.

Chairman Of The Board - Surf Soundtracks '64-'74 (2007)

Fantastic collection of soundtracks taken from forgotten and often obscure surf films, which will appeal not only to surfing fans but to anyone with an interest in the music of the 60's.

Catch of the Day 2 (2007)

Fabulous second compilation of lo-fi electro-pop from small Manchester-based indie label, Kipper Records

Sucking the 70's-Back in the Saddle Again (2007)

Appealing second double CD compilation from Detroit stoner rock label Small Stone, which finds several of its acts and their like-minded friends once more playing covers of songs by 70's guitar acts such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, Grand Funk and Rush

Pop Punk's Not Dead (2007)

Enjoyable compilation on Go Kart records which features some of the lesser known, but best pop punk bands from all over the world

Paris Calling (2007)

Enjoyable compilation of up-and-coming Parisian acts, many of whom have a similar garage rock sound to the likes of the Libertines, Babyshambles and the Strokes

Fuzztones Illegitimate Spawn (The Fuzztones Tribute Album) (2007)

Up and down 42 track double tribute CD to 80's New York garage rockers the Fuzztones, which includes tracks from Jayne County and the late Nikki Sudden

Splendour and Misery (2007)

Diverse, often excellent two CD sampler from London-based label Tenor Vossa, best known for its post rock but which also incorporates on this indie rock and alt country

What the Folk (2007)

Disappointing compilation of British folk artists on ex-Verve guitarist Simon Tong's new Butterfly Recordings label

Declaration of Fuzz (2007)

20th anniversary re-release of the now firmly established independent German label Glitterhouse's first full-length release, an energetic and raw compilation of Swedish, German and American garage bands

Souvenirs from Egg Records (2006)

Fantastic 27-track compilation from Glaswegian indiepop label Egg Records, which compiles some of the tracks they have released under their 'Restoration Programme' of 80's and 90's groups during the last three years and also previews some of their forthcoming releases

Get While the Getting's Good (2006)

Excellent compilation of exciting indie-pop, rock and folk from some of Scotland’s finest bands from German label Aufgeladen und Bereit

Protest! (American Protest Songs 1928-1953) (2006)

Superb and fascinating retrospective from Liverpool's the Viper label which compiles together American protest songs recorded between the years 1928 and 1953

Never Lose That Feeling Volume 2 (2006)

Superior compilation from London label Club AC30 which features covers of classic songs from the late 80's and early 90's shoegazing era by contemporary artists

Out There: Wild & Wondrous Roots of Rock 'n' Roll, Vol. 2 (2006)

Thought-inspiring second compilation from Liverpool's Viper label examining the roots and origins of rock 'n' roll

Warped Tour 2006 (2006)

Latest Warped Tour punk compilation which includes tracks from Anti-Flag, the Casualties, Matchbnook Romance, Flogging Molly, NOFX and Saces the Day

The World Is Gone (2006)

Messy-sounding and ultimately uninvolving mix of styles on debut album from Various

Toxic (2006)

Stunning compilation of music played at uber-hip hip hop and electro Parisian club night, Toxic

Leigh Rock Festival 1979 (2006)

Muddy-sounding double CD recorded at 1979's srarsely-attended Leigh Rock Festival, and which featured sets from Joy Division, Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, A Certain Ratio and the Teardrop Explodes

Africa Plays On (2006)

Mixed, but impressively versatile new compilation of African world music

Feel The Spirit (Other Worldly Folk Music Gems And Psychedelics) (2006)

Intriguing compilation of lost folk rock and psychedelia from the late 1960's and early 1970's

Give 'em The Boot V (2006)

Fifth sampler from Rancid frontman Tim Armstrong's record label Hellcat which features new and unreleased songs from both several of the acts on its roster

New British Invasion (2006)

First-rate compilation from Berlin's Firestation label, which introduces several new British bands, all of whom are infused with a C86 spirit

Still Unravished : A Tribute To The June Brides (2006)

Up and down tribute album to mid 80's indiepop group the June Brides and their front man Phil Wilson , which includes covers from among others the Manic Street Preachers, the Television Personalities, Postal Blue and Tompaulin

Blue Skies Up : Welcome To The New Pop Revolution (2006)

Mixed bag compilation from Dogbox Records, which includes songs from the Boyfriends, the Lodger and the Sweethearts

They'll Have To Catch Us First (2006)

Eclectic budget-priced 10th anniversary compilation from the Domino label, which features tracks from 14 of the bands currently on their roster

Check The Water (2006)

Eclectic 10th anniversary double CD and retrospective from the Leaf label

The Way We Wore (2006)

Intriguing, eclectic compilation album telling of war torn England, which merges together Toots and the Maytals, Rod Stewart, Patti Smith and the Clash

Inner City Sound (2006)

Excellent double CD which compiles together some of the best and also in some cases lesser well known Australian punk and post punk of the late 70's and early 80's

Eastpak Antidote Tour Compilation 2005 (2006)

Sampler compilation from Side One Dummy Records, which includes songs from big name acts such as Flogging Molly, Strike Anywhere, No Use for a Name, Hell is for Heroes and Millencolin

Dream Brother : The Songs Of Tim And Jeff Buckley (2005)

Mixed collection of Tim and Jeff Buckley covers from acts including the Magic Numbers, Engineers, Sufjan Stevens and the Earlies

(Have Yourself A...) Filthy Little Christmas (2005)

Download only Christmas compilation from up-and-coming punk label Filthy Little Angels

Live At Purr (2005)

Superb compilation album from Bath label and club Purr, which chronicles two nights of live gigs featuring some of the best acts on their roster

All Tomorrow's Parties 3.1 (Curated By Matt Groening) (2005)

Compilation from 2003 All Tomorrow' Parties festival which was curated by Simpsons creator Matt Groneing and includes tracks from the likes of the Stooges, the Shins, the Magic Band, Electrelane, Elliot Smith, Sonic Youth and Daniel Johnston

Punk Rock Is Your Friend (Kung Fu Records Sampler № 6) (2005)

Strong compilation from punk/hardcore label Kung Fu records which includes tracks from the likes of the Vandals, Bouncing Souls, Audio Karate, the Ataris and Tsunami Bomb

The New Crazy (2005)

Latest sampler from the ever prolific Deep Elm label, woth seeking out for its tracks by Sounds Like Violence and Settlefish alone

Trans Slovenia Express Volume 2 (2005)

Eclectic second album of Kraftwerk covers from the Mute label

Warped Tour 2005 Compilation (2005)

Variable, but essentially worth-hearing two and a half long double CD of punk rock and the latest addition to the Warped Tour series

This Is Indie Rock Volume 2 (2005)

Second compilation of unsigned bands from the as always reliable Deep Elm label

Twisted: Indie Floorfillers for a Twisted Generation (2005)

Mixed double CD collection of dance and house remixes from indie bands currently making waves in the charts

More Soul Than Wigan Casino (2005)

Excellent covers EP of Northern Soul classics on the Fortuna Poplabel from indie pop acts Kicker, the Butterflies of Love, Comet Gain and Airport Girl

Punk-o-rama 10 (2005)

Latest CD in Epitaph's long-running and good quality Punk-O-Rama series, which finds the label shifting from its original values and incorporating elements of rap

Jar : A Pickled Egg Collection (2005)

Eclectic two disc compilation from the Leicester-based label Pickled Egg, released as its 50th release, and which compiles together some of the best tracks it has released since it first began signing bands in 1997

This Is Punk Rock Blues (2005)

Enjoyable compilation of artists who have played at London's Not The Same Old Blues Crap club over the last year which serves as " a fine wake up call to those who thought blues was still stuck in the last century"

The Sound Of Leamington Spa Volume 4 (2005)

Fourth compilation in the the excellent 'Sound of Leamington Spa' series, which compiles together increasingly obscure English indiepop acts of the 80's and 90's

Je Suis Un Etranger (2005)

Intriguing, but ultimately disappointing compilation in which post rock and electronica acts from all over the world have contributed tracks using samples in a language other than their own

Completed 2004 (2005)

Underwhelming boys club only compilation of Pennsylvanian rock and roll, which shows itself to be everything grunge tried to long leave behind

Headbangers' Bible (2005)

"Triple CD treat" of headbanger music, which proves to be "a fantastic reference" point to much of heavy metal rock during the last 40 years

Everything Comes And Goes (2005)

Excellent compilation on the Temporary Residence label with experimental rock, folk and electro acts reinterpreting Ozzy-era Black Sabbath songs

Howlback Hum: We're From Norwich Vol#1 (2005)

"Vibrant and fun" compilation of Norwich bands, which "hammers home the point that, musically at least, there is life outside the M25"

This Is Indie Rock: Volume One (2005)

Expansive debut in new compilation series from former spearheads of the "emo " genre Deep Elm, which aims to promote previously unheard indie rock bands

Eastpak Resistance Tour 2004 (2005)

Hard/metal core punk compilation, slightly marred by a poor choice of track layout, which features the likes of Agnostic Front, Death by Stero and Sick Of It All

Not The Same Old Blues Crap Vol 3 (2004)

Excellent compilation from the Fat Possum label, which including tracks by the Black Keys, RL Burnside and Bob Log III and an unreleased cover by Iggy and the Stooges, more than than lives up to its title

Rough Trade Shops-indiepop 1 (2004)

Excellent double compilation that collects together the cream of out-of-print 7, 10, and 12 inch tracks from the 80's indiepop era, many of which were never issued on CD at the time, and also adds a few more up to date indie classics

Playing the Indie Game (2004)

Enterprising and entertaining compilation from Italy's "best indie label", upon which each artist had to use a toy instrument in their song and draw upon childhood influences

Rock Against Bush Vol 2 (2004)

Eclectic second Bush-bashing compilation on the Fat Wreck punk label, which betters the first album in the series, and which features unreleased and rare tracks from the likes of Green Day, No Doubt, the Foo Fighters and the Lawrence Arms

A Box Of Odd (2004)

Surreal "always entertaining, often enthralling" compilation which showcases six of the bands on Sheffield's garage rocl/surf scene

The Sensitive Guy's Guide To Groovy Music (2004)

Enjoyable budget-priced sampler which compiles together 22 tracks from recent releases on Portland, Oregon-based power pop label, Paisley Pop

Littlest Album 2 (2004)

Quirky, but thoroughly engaging mini 12 track vinyl compilation from 12 different artists,each lasting no more than a minute each

Pop Volume 4 (2004)

Eclectic and compulsive fourth offering in the annual series of compilations from French music website, POPnews

Rock Against Bush Vol. 1 (2004)

Possibly commerically exploitative punk compilation, which mixes together exclusive and already recorded tracks, and features the likes of Sum 41, the Ataris, Pennywise, NOFX and Less Than Jake

Derby (2004)

Sprawling, occasionally appealing double CD, with loose football theme, from the Spanish indiepop label Siesta, released to coincide with their 11th anniversay

Anticon Label Sampler 1999-2004 (2004)

Cheap sampler CD, released to celebrate their fifth anniversary from the Anticon label , who continue to release "the best, freshest and most intelligent hip-hop around"

What A Concept : Tribute To Teenage Fan Club (2004)

Disappointing 24 song tribute compilation album to the Teenage Fanclub, whose bands remain a little too close to their original source

Emo Diaries, Chapter 10-the Hope I Hide Inside (2004)

Splendid farewell CD in Deep Elm's long-running 'The Emo Diaries' series, which both showcases some of the current bands on their roster, and also introduces several new ones

Location Is Everything Volume 2 (2004)

First rate sampler compilation from the Jade Tree label, which shows off most of the acts on the prolific Delaware label's vast roster

The Matinee Autumn Assortment! (2004)

First-rate sampler which provides an excellent introduction to the many fine bands that make up the Matinee roster

22.2 (2004)

Excellent compilation which features all the main acts that have appeared to date on French label GG0022's roster, and also a few extra special guests

Ultimate 50's Rocking Horror Disc (2003)

Spectacular collection of obscure 50's and 60's songs with a loose horror theme, saved from the vaults by Liverpool's Viper label

Too Young To Die (2003)

Youth suicide prevention charity sampler album of non-exclusive tracks from Deep Elm label , which "offers something for practically every type of indie rock fan" as well as supporting a good cause

Sound of Leamington Spa (Vol 3) (2003)

Third in the much acclaimed 'The Sound of Leamington Spa' series from German label Firestation Tower, which showcases forgotten and obscure British indiepop bands of the 1980's

Ladyfest Uk 2003 (2003)

Eclectic charity compilation, which "showcases several of the best female-led acts on the current alternative music scene"

Invisible Shield (2003)

Eclectic budget-priced indiepop/indierock compilation from Olympia, Washington's K Records, which shows off all the current acts on its roster

Branches And Routes (2003)

27 track double compilation that celebrates the first 6 years of the Fat Cat,and which, while offering few surprises, nevertheless still proves to be "inspired listening"

Sonic Mook Experiment 3: Hot Shit (2003)

Difficult, but interesting 24 track compilation,, which, exploring various degrees of new wave and punk experimentation, showcases all the Mute label's latest signings

Matinée 50 (2003)

Spectacular compilation which celebrates the "unashamedly pop minded" Matinee's label's 50th release by having all the main acts on its roster providing covers of each other's defining moments

Seasons (2003)

Excellent post rock compilation on the Ochre label which features exclusive tracks from Longstone, the Land of Nod, Lakescene, 90 Degrees South and Stylus

Emo Is Awesome (2003)

Excellent sampler from the Deep Elm label, which features Brandtson, Pop Unknown, Camber, Cross My Heart, the Appleseed Cast and most of the other bands on its roster, and proves that emo is indeed awesome

Deep Elm Unreleased No 2 (2003)

Strong-as-always compilation from the Deep Elm label, featuring unreleased tracks by some of its leading bands

At Least You Can Die With A Smile On Your Face (2003)

Impressive a double compilation, which features songs by all the bands that have appeared on ex-Cocteau Twins Robin Guthrie and Simon Raymonde's Bella Union label, and also a few extras

Ultimate 50s Rockin Sci Fi Disc (2003)

"High octane rock 'n' roll boogie" from new cowboy and sci-fi inspired compilation on the Viper label

Another Round Of Golf Vol.4 (2003)

Enjoyable budget priced sampler featuring all the acts on premier British punk label Golf's current roster

These Are The Songs We Always Wanted to Hear (2003)

Essential indiepop "summer listening" on latest compilation from the German label, Firestation Tower Records

Plea For Peace/ Take Action Vol 2 (2003)

Satisfying charity double CD compilation "featuring a fine selection of punk anthems, aggressive heavy metal, and...melodic indie tracks"

Live The Dream 2nd Fierce Panda Sampler (2003)

Eclectic budget-priced compilation from the ever popular Fierce Panda label, which features tracks from such stalwarts as Seafood, Medium 21, the Parkinsons and the Music

Bottle Let Me Down (2002)

Excellent and consistently rewarding compilation on the Bloodshot label of songs written specifically "or the amusement of children...and arrested adolescents everywhere"

Deep Elm Sampler No. 4: Hearts Bleed Blue (2002)

Essential budget-priced emo compilation from the Deep Elm label, which shows off some of the better known names on the scene

Pushing Scandinavian Rock To The Man Vol.3 (2002)

"Desirable" third compilation of Scandinavian rock in enjoyable series from the Danish label, Bad Afro

Boss Samplerage 3 (2002)

Sprawling double CD sampler from the Boss Tuneage punk label, which serves as a "first rate" introduction to its 12 year history

Alice Will Never Surrender (2002)

Disappointing compilation consisting entirely of previously unreleased material on the well-regarded French label, Alice in Wonder

Little Darla Has A Treat Foryou V.19, Indian Summe (2002)

Thoroughly enjoyable new sampler from the diverse Darla indiepop label, that fields a "wealth of new, slightly off the beaten track music"

Emo Diaries Chapter 8 (2002)

Perhaps one of the "best compilations " to date yet in Deep Elm's regular and much acclaimed 'Emo Diaries' series

Charabang Trip To The Lights (2002)

"Still relevant and exciting" six-band CD compilation and penultimate release of the always excellent Earworm Records

Hopelessly Devoted To You Vol 4 (2002)

Decidely mixed fourth offering, consisting entirely of unreleased tracks, in cheap CD sampler series from American indie hardcore label, Hopelessly Devoted to You

Hit Music Only (2002)

"Delightful" debut compilation from new indie-pop label, Heavenly Pop Hits, which, co-run by Pennyblackmusic writer Tommy Gunnarsson, includes tracks by Remington Super 60, Nixon, Sodastream and ballboy

POPvolume #3 (2002)

One of the best music sites on the web, the French webzine every year puts out its own annual compilation. Like its two predecessors, 'POP Volume 3' stands out from many of its competitors because of " its quality, intelligence of approach and beauty"

Sugar Shack Greatest Hits Vol. 1 (2002)

Eclectic budget-priced compilation from the increasingly "promising looking " Bristol based label Sugar Shack Records

A Room Full Of Tuneful (2002)

Compilation album on Manchester based leftfield and instrumental label, which proves, despite many beautiful moments, to be definitely an album for acquired tastes

Unreleased No 1 (2002)

Impressive collection of never before heard songs from ten of the bands on Deep Elm, "the world's premier emo label"

Emo Diaries 7 - Me Against The World (2002)

Latest release in the Deep Elm label's 'Emo Diaries' series, which serves as an "excellent" introduction to bands soon to appear on the label's roster

Relict / Below The Sea - Out of Time / Pola Mountain (2002)

Split single featuring melancholic British group, amd Canadian electronica experimentalists, Below the Sea

I Am The World Trade Center / Phofo - Split Release (2002)

Tasteful and highly recommended split single featuring I am the World Trade Centre and Phofu

Firework Anatomy (2002)

Twenty track compilation, which serves as an excellent " virtual definition of who’s who in emo and hardcore punk rock."

Come On Beautiful (2002)

Absolutely stunning tribute to the music of the American Club and Mark Eitzel, which features covers by acts such as Lambchop, M.Ward, Calexico and the Willard Grant Conspiracy

Acuarela Songs (2002)

"First rate" double compilation CD, consisting almost entirely of exclusive tracks, released as a joint venture between the Madrid-based label Acuarela and the Parisian micro-label and website hinah

The Sound Of Leamington Spa Vol 2 (2002)

"Fantastic" collection of obscure and previously unsung British indiepop from the golden age of the eighties

Sweet 16 Vol 4 (2002)

"Entertaining and fun" budget-priced compilation from the Parasol label which does a first rate job of promoting both their current roster and also their forthcoming releases.

Team Mint Vol 2 (2002)

Special "lo-price" compilation from Mint Records in Canada has been released in celebration of the label's 10th anniversary and running a full gamut of sounds to include punk, surf, garage and surf, shows that "variety is the spice of life".

The Politics Of Disappearance (2002)

'The soundtrack to an imaginary film – the soundtrack to your internal monologue", 'The Politics of Disappearance' is the latest compilation from Radio Khartoum, "one of the few truly innovative record labels of the moment."

RND (2002)

"Amalgamation of natural resonance, organic tones, analogue hiss and speaker damaging pops and clicks" that have "the ability to make you float in an ocean or to lose yourself to Atari armageddon."

Compilation Electro (2001)

The French – they’re suave, they’re chic, they invented pain au chocolat – and for this I salute them. They also excel at making rather fine but largely ignored pop music, although fear not because “

Sound Of Leamington Spa (2001)

Being a fan of British eighties indie pop and also living in Sweden isn't easy. It is only very seldom that you see records from that era for sale here, and when you do find an album such as one, fo

Brand New Boots and Panties (2001)

When Ian Dury died last year , Britain lost one of its best singer songwriters. Dury recorded, both as a solo artist and also with his band the Blockheads, ten albums in a musical career that expanded

The Braindance Coincidence (2001)

Braindance is the term coined by Rephlex records to describe the music it releases. Since being founded in 1991 by Richard D James (Aphex Twin) and Grant Wilson-Claridge, Rephlex has been releasing ex

What You Hear Today, You'll Be Singing Tomorrow (2001)

This conservative indie pop compilation was originally released way back in 1997 in the death throes of Britpop when people still strutted around with a certain amount of pride in their gazelle traine

A Place To Call Home (2001)

The proceeds from this album go to MARE, the Massachusetts Adoption Resource Exchange. MARE is a private and non-profit organisation that aims to find ‘a place to call home’ for local Massachusetts ch

Blattered (2001)

'Blattered' is a 25 track compilation of "bad-ass rock 'n' roll" from the Scottish record label Twenty Stone Blatt. It provides the "balls and attitude" proclaimed on its front cover by kicking off wi

Lights On A Darkening Shore (2001)

When the legendary Sarah Records decided to call it a day some years ago, Shinkansen started out almost immediately, as a fresh start for Sarah. Among the first signings was a band that had some conne

Seven Summers (2001)

I think that it is very interesting to hear tweepop from other countries than the ones that usually provides us with great records and great tunes (i.e. United Kingdom and the US),. Living in Sweden

Left Of The Dial : A Tribute To The Replacements (2001)

Love them or loathe them, tribute albums are here to stay. Whilst their proliferation has been a relatively recent occurrence, artists have often chosen to turn their talents to the interpretation of

Songs For The Blue Times (2001)

This compilation's subtitle, "A suicidal pop collection" raises a few questions. Suicide and the icons of pop music have always had an edgy relationship, but that music so unashamedly dark in sound an

Elefant Dosmiluno (2001)

File under “vocal pop, indie pop, pop rock, and easy listening” or at least that is how Spain’s Elefant records categorise their budget priced introduction to their rather lovely roster. The joyo

A Wish On A Star (2001)

When I first received this compilation, I vowed that I would do my utmost to avoid falling into some kind of clichéd review about dreamy music making up the dreamy records roster; But it’s difficult f

Stuck In The Chimney (2001)

In these increasingly turbulent times, the arrival of a little genuine Christmas cheer, however small should be thoroughly welcomed. Cynicism and excessive commercialism abounds these days during the

Bumblebear Friends and Family Vol 1 (2001)

It has been a quiet time for releases at New York's BumbleBEAR label.Its bands have, however, been working at full speed during 2001 to prepare some brand new sounds to put out early next year . Wh

Build Your Own Radio (2001)

You’ll smile, you’ll groan inwardly, you’ll check your watch, and when it’s all over you’ll applaud, bursting pride mingling with gentle cynicism. 'Build Your own Radio' feels like your eldest child’

Bella Union Sampler (2001)

Bella Union, an independent West London based label, has been running for 4 years now and since it was first established by Robin Guthrie and Simon Raymonde, has attached to its roster several great b

Pop Vol 2 (2001)

A compilation album can never realistically expect to be as important to music fans as a genuine album, but it can be a good resource for those who want to find new music. There are a few compilations

I Tried A Thousand Times A Thousand Times (2001)

In a previous issue of the Pennyblackmusic Magazine, I interviewed the people behind this German pop label, and they, among other things, said that they would try to release more dancey stuff in the

POP Volume #1 (2001)

Compiled and released by the people behind French based website www.popnews.com, the simply entitled Popvolume # 1, which is limited to just 600 copies, features 15 tracks by some of its contributors

Electronic Lullabies (2001)

There are no fashionable designs or pretensions here . Thank God ! Despite that, several in-crowd suspects , including Alan Vega and The Revolutionary Corps of Teenage Jesus, feature here. Ass

A Boy a Girl and a Rendez-vous (2001)

American label Red Roses For Me usually puts out fanzines, but now they have put together a compilation CD of twee-pop from around the globe, and as usual with these kinds of compilations (and to be h

HHBTM Vol 2 CD Compilation (2001)

First things first. This compilation was put together by Mike Turner, who puts out an excellent fanzine entitled the Bees Knees which covers a wide range of indie pop and rock. Looks like he's branchi

A Tribute To Nick Drake (2001)

For several years Raoul Graf has hosted a tribute night for Nick Drake in Sydney and has now followed this up with a tribute album, featuring performers from the evenings. It is intended to serve as b

The Stations of Abandoned Days (2001)

Of course, for this kind of thing you really need to be listening to a series of 7” singles, played in the bedroom of an untidy basement flat on an old dansette, whilst staring wistfully at the ankles

Zann (2001)

“He was trying to make a noise; to ward something off or drown something out; what, I could not imagine…” So wrote H.P. Lovecraft in The Music of Erich Zann, the work from which the concept for th

Casablanca (2001)

'The most exciting collection ever made' Spanish label 'Elefant' brazenly describe their 'Casablanca' compilation as on its front cover, and several members of the Pennyblackmusic team would undoubte

Related

Interviews

Interview with Rod Argent

Lisa Torem discusses the production decisions and various tracks of the new Zombies’ album, ‘Different Game’ with founding member, songwriter and arranger Rod Argent.

Vinny Peculiar

Interview

Singer-songwriter Vinny Peculiar talks to John Clarkson about his new concept album, 'Silver Meadows', which was inspired by his experiences working in various long-stay mental health hospitals during the 1980s and 1990s

Jo Bartlett

Interview

In 'Is This Your Year?' we will be following across the course of the year the fortunes of various indie acts and bands. In this latest interview with Reading-based singer-songwriter Jo Bartlett, Owen Peters finds her having formed a new band Kodiak Island and preparing for a new album

T.O.Y.S.

Interview

Dominic Simpson chats to fuzz bassist Adam John Miller from London/Leeds-based lo-fi indie pop/Krautrock trio T.O.Y.S. about their two EPS to date and how its members balance playing in it with being in two cities and also having various other groups

Clientele

Interview

Dominic Simpson speaks to the critically acclaimed and autumnal-toned the Clientele about their five albums, various EPs and the impact that their native London has had on their work.

Amelia Fletcher

Interview Part 1

Amelia Fletcher has fronted various influential indie bands including Heavenly, Marine Research, Sportique and her latest group Tender Trap. In the first part of a three part interview, she talks with Anthony Strutt about her first group Talulah Gosh.

Billy Childish

Interview

Musician, poet , artist and underground legend Billy Childish has played in various bands over the years including the Pop Rivets, thee Headcoatees and the Buff Medways. Mark Rowland chats to him about his persistant refusal to play the media game

Deckard

Interview

Scottish guitar rock band Deckard have put out their new album, 'Dreams of Divinity and Dynamite', on their own label. After a decade of being signed to majors with various bands, frontman Chris Gordon talks about why they have taken this step

Silver Sun

Second Time Lucky ?-An Interview with James Broad

One of the great pop acts of the 90's, Silver Sun had various hits and released two albums, but broke up in acrimony when their label Polydor collapsed. Frontman James Broad speaks about the band's reformation and forthcoming eventual third album

Amelia Fletcher/Tender Trap

Interview

One of the most influential figures in indie pop, Amelia Fletcher has fronted various bands including Talulah Gosh and Heavenly. She speaks to Anthony Strutt , with fellow band members Rob Pursey and DJ Downfall ,about her new group, Tender Trap

Rothko

Interview

Experimental London art rockers Rothko have put out records on various labels but now have a regular deal with Too Pure. Frontman and bassist Mark Beazley talks to Olga Sladeckova about the group's new album 'Continual Search for Origins'

Profiles

Modern Music and Silent Films

Profile

Live musical scores to silent films are maybe a new experience to Owen Peters, but he soon finds out via various interviews around the subject that it is an expanding concept

DVD-Renaissance

Kings and Queens

Classic rock group Renaissance went through various line-ups, including in its original incarnation former Yardbirds members Keith Relf and Jim McCarty. Carol Bookstein examines new DVD 'Kings and Queens', which captures live and video footage, much previously believed lost, of the group

DVD

Transylvania

'Transylvania', which Pennyblackmusic reviewed when it was released in the cinema last year, is an edgy road movie with a stunning gyspy folk soundtrack. Anthony Strutt looks at its new DVD release, which comes with various extras

DVD : Les Claypool

Fancy

The founder and lead singer/bassist of funk metal loons Primus, Les Claypool has recently released his first solo DVD which charts various shows from his recent US tour. Adrian Huggins is impressed by his incredibly diverse and unique sound and adventurous performance

Live

Buff Medways

Gillingham Parklife Festival, 17/8/2002

The godfather of garage rock, Billy Childish has put 100 albums under various monikers. Ben Howarth watches his latest band , the Buff Medways, put on an electrifying performance at a free festival in Kent

Albums

Blue

In our 'Re:View' section, in which we look at albums from the past, Nick Dent-Robinson examines Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell’s classic 1971 album, ‘Blue’, which is being released in various 50th Anniversary editions, which include demos and out-takes.

Hazel O Connor

Cover Plus

In our 'Re: View' section, in which we look back at albums from the past, Dave Goodwin examines 'Breaking Glass' legend Hazel O'Connor's 1981 third album 'Cover Plus' which includes various other incarnations of the originals.

Nirvana

Nevermind

Anthony Dhanendran reflects upon the various new editions of Nirvana's classic second album, 'Nevermind', which have been released to coincide with its twentieth anniversary

Features

Vinyl Stories

In Vinyl Stories Dave Goodwin takes a morbid but jovial look at various of his friends choice of songs for their funerals.

Soundtrack of Our Lives

John Lennon

In our 'Soundtrack of Our Lives' column, in which our writers write about the personal impact of music on their lives, Lisa Torem writes of the reconciling effect that John Lennon's songwriting has had at various difficult points in her life

John Peel Day

Tribute

The John Peel tribute day on October 13th met with an overwhelming national response. Various Pennyblackmusic writers look at a few of the highlights and give some thoughts on the day

Paul Cannell

Obituary

Paul Cannell, who created the artwork for Primal Scream's 'Screamadelica' and various other early 90's iconic record sleeves, died on the 5th July. Olga Sladeckova looks back and reflects on his life and career

Home

Reviews

Interviews

Features

Live Music

Profiles

Albums

Photography

Writers

Search