TURNTABLE LAB

Pioneer
CDJ-850-K CD Turntable

robust CD turntable

LAB POINTS
- now in all black finish
- plays CD, CD-R/RW, digital media via USB, WAV, AIFF, MP3, AAC files
- same jog technology as CDJ-2000
- Rekordbox music database management software included
- 3 Lines Of Text With Waveform View
- BPM counter


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
Adapting to today's variety of media formats, the CDJ-850 enables playback of MP3, AAC, WAV and AIFF audio files from CDs and USB memory devices. A USB port located on top of the turntable enables users to quickly connect an external storage device such as a hard drive packed with music files, minimizing the need to bring a laptop computer to performances.

The CDJ-850 turntable includes rekordbox, Pioneer's proprietary music management software that organizes and catalogs a DJ's entire music library. When music files are imported to rekordbox, the software analyzes each file and prepares them for use specifically with the new CDJ turntable.

Pro-series Design and Exacting Features
Inheriting the club standard layout and precise control features of its professional CDJ series, the CDJ-850 integrates a large 206mm jog dial for continuous free and easy control along with a rotary selector and browse buttons integrated within the display.

Compatible Media and Formats
Users can mix a variety of music formats and media, as the CDJ-850 is compatible with MP3, AAC, WAV and AIFF digital audio formats recorded on USB storage devices or CD-R/RW discs.

Included rekordbox Software
Pioneer’s new exclusive DJ music management software makes it easy for home DJs to effortlessly organize their entire music library as it analyzes files (settings, creating playlists, saving histories) to their custom specifications. As used by professionals to optimize DJ play, the software enables users to:

1. Analyze data such as the Wave, Beat Grid, BPM, and ID3 Tag of music files

2. Create cues and loops settings

3. Create and edits playlists

4. Save history of music files played on the CDJ-850

USB Export Capability
DJs using the rekordbox software can easily export their music files and custom managed data onto a USB device and quickly plug in directly to the CDJ-850 and access tracks without the need to be linked to a PC. Play histories on the CDJ-850 are automatically recorded onto rekordbox, via connected USB device for the DJ's next session which makes the cycle of music file management, DJ play and preparation for future sessions very simple.

User Interface
The display and user interface of the player is designed for quick and fluid music selection. Combined with its rotary selector, navigation through music lists (title, artist, BPM, etc.) is extremely fast and easy. The WAVE display enables smooth DJ play because the user can visually analyze the flow and dynamics of the entire song.

DJ Software Control and Audio Interface
The CDJ-850 multi-media player features MIDI, enabling control of various DJ software running on a laptop. With the use of the built-in USB HID interface, the CDJ-850 can also control more complex operations of DJ software without the need for a control disc. For additional versatility, the player can also be used as a PC audio interface.

Tag List Function
Equipped with an editable Tag List functionality, users of the player can easily register tracks during play or preview to add to their playlist queue. The song order in the Tag List can be altered and saved as a playlist in rekordbox.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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Jeremy Fish
Jeremy Fish - Skin And Bones Domino Set

customi domino set w/ Jeremy Fish artwork

Awesome 28-piece domino set from SF-based artist Jeremy Fish! Mr. Fish lends his signature drawing style to this handsome domino set, all done up in a sleek black and gold finish. Each piece has a little Jeremy Fish skull and cross bone design on the back and is housed in a wooden case adorned with more Fish art. A very classy and unique domino set!
reviewed by Von Bee


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WESC
Oboe Seasonal Headphones - Jazz Blue/Orange

basic listening headphone, monochromatic colorway

LAB POINTS
- WESC midline listening headphone
- non-bulky design
- "solid" monochromatic colorway
- single sided, woven cord
- 30mm drivers


LAB REVIEW
WESC's Oboe models feature a lightweight future-retro design with nice attention to detail like woven cords, super soft ear pads (that aren't too bulky). Technically, this pair sports 30mm PRO drivers, 120 dB sensitivity, an impedance of 32 Ohms, and a frequency range of 20 - 20 001 Hz so you won't miss any of the fine details in your music (while your ears look extra stylin').
reviewed by the mgmnt


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In Flagranti
Skematic Tracks Vol. 1 EP

dirty electro disco house

In Flagranti switch up it up a bit on the first volume of their Skematics Tracks series. Though they are best known for their dirty disco style, these tracks find the In Flagranti exploring uncharted zones of looped up electro jack, and funky schitzo house. Check "Paroxysm(1)" that seamlessly fuses abstract vocal chops, jackin' drums and flipped detroit style chords and the heavy bumps of "Aspiration(2)." "Consumer Goods(3)" is more familiar IF style, an infectious disco loop topped with dirty effects for freaky late night excursions on the dancefloor. Good to see the dudes venturing in new directions while still retaining that signature In Flagranti grit.
reviewed by snackmaster


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The Cure
Early BBC Sessions 1979-1985 2LP

alternate studio sessions

Love me this record. Grey area pressing of those fantastic BBC recordings. Over the years, I've grown to like the less-polished, but super on-point versions from these sessions. Double vinyl, quality pressing. Recommended.
reviewed by the mgmnt


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MF Doom
Dime Box (Picture Disc + Puzzle)

classic Doom track on pic disc 45 w/ exclusive puzzle

Special edition box set from Metalface Records featuring the classic Doom cut "Rhymes Like Dimes(1)" and instrumental on a fitting dime-like pic disco 45! Also included is a 150 piece puzzle of the cover art by Mmm Food and Operation Doomsday artist Jason Jagel (finished puzzle measures out to 16"x16"). Recommended.


reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
stones throw shop / mf doom + related / hip-hop vinyl / new vinyl - hip-hop / and more

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Marshall
Major Headphones w/ Mic - White

classic vintage looks, great sound, mic + control

LAB POINTS
- now in white!
- high quality sound, wide frequency response
- classic vintage look w/ same textured vinyl as Marshall amps
- now with mic + control
- closed back earcup blocks unwanted sound and prevents sound leak
- super soft ear cushions
- one-sided coiled cable
- foldable design for easy storage and transport


MANUFACTURER'S REVIEW
The Major encloses vast amounts of the massive Marshall legacy. The exterior of the headband is made out of the same vinyl used in Marshall amplifiers and it bears the original Marshall texture. Besides being straight up dazzling.

The Major is a solid workhorse with great stamina, designed with non-stop, all-day listening in mind.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
listening + audiophile - headphones / dj equipment - new arrivals

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Only
NY Flight Shirt

vintage feel, super soft

A New York-centric tee from Only featuring a high quality screen print of a pigeon on super soft, tri-blend base. Fits true to size, made in USA, printed in NYC.
reviewed by NI

file under:
all / all shirts

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Only
Uptown Wildlife Beanie - Black

classic winter accessory

Do yourself a favor and buy at least two of these. Classic pom beanie with Only's "Uptown Wildlife" (I don't know what it means, but it's provocative)lettering. 100% acrylic yarn, made in USA.
reviewed by NI

file under:
all / hats

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101 Apparel
Scientist Shirt

pays tribute to legendary dub producer

101 Apparel, in conjunction with HVW8, pays tribute to The Scientist. A legendary dub producer hailing from Kingston, Jamaica, The Scientist (name given to him by King Tubby) is one of the forefathers of dub music, and his classic, sci-fi themed album Space Invaders pretty much laid down the blueprint for electronic music producers on how to creatively use delay, effects, reverb, and more. The graphic is inspired by the original album art, a must for dub, reggae fans as well as forward thinking musicians and producers.
reviewed by NI

file under:
101 apparel / all shirts

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101 Apparel
DJ Spinna Future Shock (w/Mix CD)

comes with mixtape from DJ Spinna

101 Apparel works with DJ Spinna for this retro-futuristic shirt, and you get an exclusive 120-minute mix cd from the legendary NY dj/producer/digger when you order the tee. Here is what Spinna himself had to say about the collaboration: "Throughout my years of digging for records I've always been particularly drawn to music that is heavily influenced by the electronic revolution. There was a long stretch where I would specifically hunt for Moog, New Age, Jazz Fusion, & experimental records... anything that involved synthesizers, but still had a groove. Upon the inquiry from 101 Apparel to come up with a concept for a mix my initial thought was it has to be unique. It was the opportune time for compiling tracks from past to present that capture the electronic experience. Future Shock is born and is without a doubt one of the most brain crushing mixes I've ever done! I hope you dig it." 100% cotton, standard fit.
reviewed by NI

file under:
101 apparel / all shirts

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101 Apparel
I'll House You Shirt

pays tribute to classic hip house track

Written by the Jungle Brothers and produced by Todd Terry, "I'll House You" is one of the best moments of the very short-lived hip house genre. For the most part of the last decade, hip-hop and house pretty much stayed in their own lanes, until recently, where we have witnessed the two genres coming together a bit more (whether on the music production end or on the dancefloor), which makes this 100% cotton, slim fit t-shirt from 101 Apparel a very timely piece. Love the mixer/level meter-inspired design on this one. Made in USA.
reviewed by NI

file under:
101 apparel / all shirts

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Fania
Fania Logo Shirt

Fania's iconic logo, found on the backs of many iconic salsa and latin funk albums, now available in t-shirt form! Standard fit, 100% cotton.
reviewed by Hires

file under:
fania / 101 apparel / all shirts

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VA
Disco Not Disco: Post Punk, Electro & Leftfield Classics 1974-1986 2LP

leftfield disco, post punk, and electro

The third in the popular Disco Not Disco series originally came out on CD years ago and finally gets released as a double vinyl! All sorts of leftfield disco rarites, post punk gems, and obscure electro classics get compiled here by Bill Brewster, the co-author of "Last Night A DJ Saved My Life." If you've never read his book, it puts NY's disco boom under a powerful microscope, detailing the makings of the phenomenon. And of course, when you have a new breed of anything, you know there'll be many imitators and mutations. That's just nature of the beast, especially in NYC and thus a sound developed that is "Disco Not Disco." The bands that combine post punk, electro and disco are in the spotlight here, and Brewster's selections frame the spirit of the era so well. For some prime samples, check Delta 5's "Mind Your Own Business(1)," Shriekback's "My Spine Is The Bassline(2)," James White & The Blacks' "Contort Yourself - August Darrell Mix(3)," Kazino's "Binary(4)," Liasons Dangereuses' "Los Ninos Del Parque(5)" and Maximum Joy's "Silent Street / Silent Dub(6)." Driving rhythms, strong vocals, propulsive basslines and stimulating synths can be found of most of these tracks and that's always a recipe for excitement on the dancefloor! Also includes the underground Detroit classic "Sharevari(7)" from A Number Of Names and the Factory records jam "Love Tempo(8)" by Quando Quango! 10 tracks total spread over 2LPs, Recommended.
reviewed by C'mish

file under:
new wave + no wave + electro / rock + new wave + 80/90s / cosmic + balearic + rock-ish / and more

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Dom Thomas
Dreams Of San Antonio 2LP

balearic beat, bongo rock, acid disco and more

Another mind-blowing comp of unheard, unknown, and under-appreciated gems unearthed by Dom Thomas on Brutal Music! If you've been keeping tabs, this is his fourth release on Brutal Music, and once again he delivers in aces, this time with a fresh "balearic" (and I use the term loosely) slant. Here's what the label says: "The term Balearic when attributed to musical style often leaves the most ardent music aficionados scratching their heads in a confused sweat. Attempting to sum up an infinite set of sounds from disparate backgrounds and eras is no easy task. The original manifesto of what makes something "balearic" is a loose definition: there are no rules, anything is everything below 122BPM. Here on Dreams Of San Antonio Dom Thomas embarks on his fourth Brutal Music sonic adventure, celebrating the ambiguity of the genre to craft a sublime personal journey through his own skewed vision of the Balearic sound. A fantasy trip through Balearic Beat, Bongo Rock, Acid Disco and Far Flung Folk. A misty-eyed look back to the embryonic days of Pacha and Cafe del Mar married with dreamy images of Barbet Schroeder's '69 Ibizian paean "More." Amazing stuff well worth the price of admission. 13 tracks over 2LPs, Recommended!
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
funk soul disco - comps / funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / and more

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The Rapture
How Deep Is Your Love (A-Trak, Populette Remixes) 12"

dance-rock anthem remixed

The Rapture's epic dance rock anthem "How Deep Is Your Love" gets a couple remixes here from A-Trak and Populette. A-Trak's "Dub For Mehdi(1)" version is dedicated to the late great DJ Mehdi and is a fitting homage with a fresh big room electro aesthetic that would have made Mehdi proud. A-Trak says, "I did this remix over the summer, and when I was close to finishing it, I played it to my friend, the irreplaceable DJ Mehdi. I was working on the main version of the remix, the vocal version. I knew I would make a few alternate edits during the mixdown. The funny thing was, Mehdi's favorite part was the ending! He suggested that I have that part come in earlier. My reaction was: that would work well for the dub version. And sure enough, when I finished mixing it down I made a dub with [his] suggestion. When I sent it to Mehdi shortly after, he responded (as a joke) that I should call it "Dub For Mehdi." This one's for you Memed." The Populette remix(2) takes the flip with punched up drums and twinkling arpeggios a plenty.
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
dfa + related / new electro + electro rock + rave / new electro / electro rock / rave / cosmic + balearic + rock-ish / and more

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Escort
Cameleon Chameleon 12"

tropical disco vibes from NY disco band

"Cameloen Chameleon(1)" is the follow up to the hugely successful Cocaine Blues and finds NY disco band Escort goin' tropical with fun, sunny vibes that takes cues from Kid Creole and the Coconuts. The track rides a catchy midtempo groove with a latin/tropical twist and is chock full of catchy vocals and melodies to make the crowd move. The club mix injects some thumping 4/4 kicks and ups the tempo just enough to hit the dancefloor hard. Also includes the Club dub, recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
cosmic + balearic + rock-ish / new disco / cosmic / edits - reviewer recommended / new disco / cosmic / edits / dance + house + new disco + electro + nujazz

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B Bravo
Kiss N' Tell EP

future funk

Debut release from London-based music and art collective Earnest Endeavours comes from B. Bravo, a core member of the Bay Area's Frite Nite crew. Here on Kiss N Tell, B. Bravo goes in on some heavy Dam-Funk approved modern funk grooves, kicking off with the killer opener and title track "Kiss N Tell(1)." This one has everything you liked about the early Joker releases, a super bouncey 140bpm RnB hybrid dipped and battered in layers of thick synth funk with Zackey Force Funk topping it off with the freaky/sexy vocals. Next up, Chi-town rapper The Gen$ laces up "Right On Time(2)," a proper rap beat informed by the hey day of Warren G and Nate Dogg, while Lady Alma adds a soulful feminine touch to the heavy bumps of "Substance(3)." Also includes the FAT talkbox beats of "Swang(4)" and the dub for "Right On Time(5)." Must have for future funk and boogie heads. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all / vinyl new arrivals

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Onra
Chinoiseries pt. 2 (w/ FREE MP3 Download) 2LP

hip hop instrumentals crafted from asian records

Ya'll might know Onra from his modern boogie funk style, but he's also murderous on the MPC when it comes to heavy hip-hop instrumentals! If you missed out on the first Chinoiseries releases, you must catch up and get with Chinoiseries Pt 2, now on All City. The theme remains the same from the previous installment - beats crafted from records dug up in the far east - but the way Onra flips it is just so sick! Check "Remember The Name(1)," "A New Dynasty(2)," or "It's All Memories(3)" for starters, then get into the heavy head nod of "Words Of Encouragement(4)," "No Matter What(5)," "Where I'm From(6)," and "Still Broke(7)." Even got the shout out to the RZA on "One For The Wu(8)." So many beats to dig into here, 32 total! Recommended.


reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - recommended / downtempo + electronic - all / and more

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Sepalcure
Sepalcure 2LP

diverse bass driven house chunes

Sepalcure has been making a lot of noise with their blend of driving house and dubstep's diverse sound palate. It comes as no surprise that their full length on Hotflush is a banger. Here's what the label had to say: The duo of Travis Stewart (Machinedrum) and Praveen Sharma (Braille), utilize the broader canvas of the album format to develop their collaborative process and incorporate the diverse influences present in their solo work to their sonic mixture. Machinedrum's much-heralded Rooms LP and Sharma's recent EPs on Hotflush and Rush Hour reflect the impact of the frenetic, paranoid rhythms of the modern Chicago underground on the wider electronic world and the return to vogue of another musical style that originated from that city: House. But both artists add a crucial sense of emotional sensibility and melodic sensuality that defines the Sepalcure sound.
reviewed by The Voice

file under:
new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all / vinyl new arrivals

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Pinch and Shackleton
Pinch and Shackleton 2LP

dark and atmospheric post-dubstep

Deadly pairing of dubstep producers who are easily at the top of the food chain from Honest Jon's. For a while Shackleton was giving us glimpses of the darkest corners of the dubstep realm with his Skull Disco releases, while Pinch has been bringing the pressure for many years on Tectonic, Planet Mu, Swamp 81, Deep Medi, and many other respected labels. Here the two combine forces for a post-dubstep sound unlike anything else. Utilizing dramatic timing, detailied percussion, and a truly dark vibe, Shackleton & Pinch, are "a powerful retort to the comparatively crude hyperactivity of the post-dubstep landscape and a well-timed lesson in sophistication." 8 tracks in all housed in an exquisite gatefold sleeve.
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
dubstep + grime - vinyl / bmore/dubstep/baile/bass / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - all / and more

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Throbbing Gristle
20 Jazz Funk Greats (Remastered Ltd Edition) LP

influential industrial album on limited 180g vinyl

Deluxe 180g pressing of Throbbing Gristle's 20 Jazz Funk Greats! The album was the third full length from TG and found the industial pioneers venturing into more accessible (though still very experimental) sounds that combine the early industrial aesthetic of their earlier works with industrial dance and synth pop sounds that would later be explored by band members Chris Carter and Cosey Tutti. 20 Jazz Funk Greats is light years ahead of its time, especially for a record released in 1979, and would go on to influence future industrial, electro, techno, and experimental acts for years to come. Highlights include the stipped down proto techno "Hot On The Heels Of Love(1)," the creepily smoked out title track(2), the grinding rhythms of "Still Walking(3)," the arpeggio melodies of "Walkabout(4)," and the dissonant "Six Six Sixties(5)." Limited edition pressing with large format 8 page color booklet featuring tons of TG archive material including previously unpublished photos. 2000 copies only, recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
new rock / rock + new wave + 80/90s / special edition + deluxe / and more

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LRG
LRG: Capsule Speaker - Kelly Green

collapsible mini speaker

Bump your music on the go with LRG's collapsible Capsule Speaker. This little speaker is louder than it looks thanks to a high quality tweeter and expandable design for extended vacuum bass. It also features a rechargeable battery via USB for extended listening without batteries. Standard stereo mini plug means it can be used with most portable players, computers, phones, etc.
reviewed by Von Bee

file under:
books & design - new arrivals / various objects / lrg

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Amy Winehouse
Lioness: Hidden Treasures 180 Gram 2LP

posthumous compilation of Amy Winehouse's unreleased tracks, demos

Here is the first posthumous album (of many, we're guessing) from Amy Winehouse. Lioness: Hidden Treasures contains unreleased tracks and demos the late r&b-hip-hop-soul-jazz; singer recorded before her 2002 debut, Frank, up to 2011. Salaam Remi and Mark Ronson, as well as Winehouse's family, went through a slew of material to compile 12 songs, with "Body And Soul(1)," a duet with Tony Bennett and Amy's final studio recording, being one of them. Also included are "Like Smoke(2)" - a duet with Nas - "Valerie('69 Version)(3)," "The Girl From Ipanema(4)," "Our Day Will Come(5)," "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?(6)," and many more that capture the pain, loneliness, humor and other emotions that fueled her art. Pressed on 180g heavyweight vinyl, gatefold cover with insert, highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
funk soul disco - albums / funk soul disco - reviewer recommended / funk soul disco / new rock / and more

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DMC
DMC: World Finals 2011 DVD

the world's best turntablists compete for the crown

The 2011 DMC World DJ Finals took place in London this October, and the competitors took the battle to a new level. In addition to the talent, the turntablists were allowed to use Serato Scratch Live and DVS, allowing for fresh, innovative, and envelope-pushing routines. When it was all said and done, it was Vajra from the US that took the crown, with Japan's Izoh and DJ Co-Ma coming in second and third, respectively. In addition to footage covering the top three finishers, the DVD features 15 other DJs - A-Kut, DJ Monk, DJ Mikey, DJ On Q, Erick Jay, DJ Five, DJ Cross, DJ Graded, JFB, DJ Skillz, etc. - bringing top-notch turntablism, and for fans of the art form, this product is a must.
reviewed by NI

file under:
technics merchandise

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Big L
Lifestylez Ov Da Poor & Dangerous (Remastered w/ Poster) 2LP

Big L's debut album reissued

Originally released in March of 1995, Lifestylez Ov Da Poor & Dangerous placed Big L on the list of New York elite. Armed with sharp, witty lyrics and a cocky attitude, the Harlem MC's heavyweight presence is littered all over tracks like "MVP," "Put It On," "8 Iz Enuff," "Danger Zone," "Street Struck," and "Da Graveyard" featuring the then-unknown Jay-Z. Production wise, Buckwild, Craig Boogie, Kid Capri, Lord Finesse, and Showbiz contribute. For the first time ever, the classic release is reissued as a remastered double LP pressing, and it is accompanied by a 18" x 24" fold-out poster featuring the original artwork. Recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
middle school hip-hop / hip-hop vinyl / special edition + deluxe / new vinyl - hip-hop / and more

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Washed Out
Within And Without (Colored Vinyl w/ FREE MP3 Download) LP

full length debut from influential chillwave producer

Within And Without is the much-anticipated follow up to Washed Out's critically-acclaimed Life Of Leisure EP. Washed Out (aka Ernest Greene) is synonymous with the term "chillwave," but on Within And Without the Atlanta-based producer pushes forward from conventional chillwave aesthetics resulting in something that's still very hazy and warm, but more mature and refined. Within And Without takes it to a higher level of musicality with help from Ben Allen (co-producer of Merriweather Post Pavillion) and guest vocalist Caroline Polachek to really progress his evolution as a singer/songwriter. Highlights include "You And I(1)," "Eyes Be Closed(2)," "Soft(3)," "Before(4)," "Far Away(5)," and "A Dedication(6)". 9 tracks total pressed up on colored vinyl and includes free digital download of the album.
reviewed by suicide bangs

file under:
new rock / rock + new wave + 80/90s / cosmic + balearic + rock-ish / new disco / cosmic / edits / and more

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Radiohead
The King of Limbs (180g w/ FREE mp3 Download) LP

8th studio album from Radiohead

Almost 4 years after In Rainbows, Radiohead releases King Of Limbs, the band's 8th studio full-length. Limbs, produced by Nigel Godrich aka the "sixth member" of Radiohead, is the band's shortest album to date consisting of 8 tracks. "Lotus Flower(1)," an eerily beautiful tune characterized by hints of electronica, was the first song to see the light of day, and tracks like "Bloom(2)," with its hazy, experimental sound, and "Codex(3)," with its serene yet somehow tense composure, define the stylings of the album (along with Thom Yorke's haunting vocals, of course). Other picks include the brilliant, acoustic guitar-driven "Little by Little(4)" and the soothing "Give Up The Ghost(5)," but really, there is not a song on the album that won't require repeats and multiple listens. The 180gram vinyl come in an inner sleeve featuring illustrations of mythical creatures. Free MP3 download card included (via the TBD label), highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
new rock / rock + new wave + 80/90s / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - recommended / and more

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The Smiths
The Queen Is Dead (Remastered 180g) LP

remastered 180g version of an 80s rock classic

This is it, the big one. The Rolling Stone five star all time great Smiths album. I don't really believe in this kind of stuff, especially with this band. BUT, if your going to leave the house to DJ, or if your going to throw a record on the turntable, this is probably the one to have. I mean really you should have most or all of their discography in your iPod, but if you don't, this is a great place to start. "Bigmouth Strikes Again(1)," is probably the most played Smiths "club" track. "Cemetry Gates(2)," is one of their greatest and most talked about tracks, "The Boy with the Thorn In His Side(3)" is the "Morrissey Night" Fave. There's also "Some Girls(4)" (if you don't have the live "Some Girls" track it down it's amazing) and the title track(5) - for whatever reason when the English sing politics it sounds so fucking cool, but when we (Americans) do it we sound like total douche bags...
"Franky Mr. Shankly(6)," is a personal fave of mine about a record executive asshole they had to deal with. "I Know Its Over(7)" and "Never Had No One Ever(8)" are the two least talked about tracks and both are fantastic - you start to hear Morrissey developing the sound that would emerge in his solo stuff, more moody and broody. "Vicar In A Tutu(9)," another short jingle jangle song that I would again urge you to track down the "Rank" version of. Which leaves us with "There is a Light That Never Goes Out(10)." Perhaps the greatest song that's ever been recorded? For real, this is THE Smiths song, if you only own one Smiths song, this is the one you should own, so if you only own one Smiths album, a real crime id say, but if you do, this is the one to own. I can not really put this song into words, play it over and over if you've lost a love, or found a love, found a friend or lost a friend, like so many of us have this bitter sweet summer. If you love music of any kind this album will not collect dust, a must for everyone...
reviewed by Roctakon

file under:
various rock + everything else / new wave + no wave + electro / rock + new wave + 80/90s / and more

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Burial & Four Tet
Moth / Wolf Cub 12"

future bass

Back in stock! One of the most hyped (and limited!) 12"s to come through these parts in awhile. Burial and Four Tet make brilliant music on their own and when the two get together you can bet the outcome is nothing short of extraordinary. On "Moth(1)" and "Wolf Cub(2)" you can hear both of their styles meshing and bonding to create new sounds that are out of this world. If you missed it the first time, consider this your lucky second chance. Don't get caught sleeping again! Highly Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
dubstep + grime - vinyl / bmore/dubstep/baile/bass / new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / and more

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Momentform
Momentform EP

minimal synth, cold wave

French band Momentform make their debut on Brooklyn's WT Records with a self-titled album full of analog synths and drum machines. This one will easily win over fans of the minimal/cold wave sounds, especially with tracks like "Turnaround(1)," and "She's Into Clubs(2)," but also check the slow and moody "Cards(3)" and "25(4)." 6 tracks total, housed in black & white pic sleeve. Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
new wave + no wave + electro / new rock / rock + new wave + 80/90s / and more

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The Revenge
Reekin'structions by The Revenge CD

top shelf disco boogie edits

Looks like The Revenge is up to his old tricks again. The UK-based DJ/Producer has set himself up to be a major figure in the edit/slow disco house scene and now makes a move to Z Records for some his best work to date. Here Graeme Clark (aka The Revenge) cherry-picks some of the finest disco boogie tracks to splice and re-arrange for maximum impact on the floor, leading off with a rework of Mid-Air's rare joint "Ease Out(1)" that teases and extends the breaks to work the crowd. That's just the tip of the iceberg as this album treats you to fantastic edits of more boogie rarites like Chapter Three's spaced-out chugger "Smurf Trek(2)," Nel Oliver's grown and sexy groover "Dream On(3)," Electric Smoke's "Freak It Out(4)," The Joneses' "Summer Groove(5)" and Letta Mbulu's heater "Kilimanjaro(6)." Top shelf selections reworked in masterful fashion, well recommended!
reviewed by snackmaster


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Ol' Dirty Bastard
Return To The 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version (Deluxe Vinyl Set w/ Food Stamp Card) 2LP

deluxe double vinyl reissue of classic Ol' Dirty album

This is how you do a re-issue. Ol' Dirty Bastard's Return To The 36 Chambers gets the double-vinyl-deluxe reissue, which means a lot of extras in addition to the classic album. First of all, here is the original review of Return To: "The One Man Army Ason has become one of the most misunderstood and maligned artists of our time. All you got to do is give the man a chance cuz he's one of the most human mcs out there. Some people just don't understand the beauty of two straight minutes of making that croaking noise with your throat. Live and uncut when you feel the earth tremble beneath your balls. For real though, this album is a slept on classic like a second round draft pick steal. RZA's production is untouchable on here matching the Dirty style perfectly with the two singles "Brooklyn Zoo(1)" and "Shimmy Shimmy(2)," plus "Hippa to the Hoppa(3)," "Baby C'mon(4)," "The Stomp(5)" and of course everybody's favorite: "Rawhide(6)" with Meth and Raekwon. ODB is for the Children." Now to the extras, the release, which comes in premium plastic housing, is accompanied by an oversized, laminated food stamp card (!!!!!) as a tribute to the Return to...'s iconic artwork, and there is an insert featuring extended artwork, liner notes, milestones and accolades. Highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
wu-tang + related / middle school hip-hop / hip-hop vinyl / special edition + deluxe / and more

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Marley Marl
In Control Vol.1 (2 Discs, 2 Slipmats)

deluxe reissue on colored vinyl w/ matching Cold Chillin' slipmats

Wow. This is easily one of the nicest looking hip-hop reissues to come through here in a minute. Cold Chillin' teamed up with Traffic to bring us this limited edition repress of Marley Marl's In Control Volume 1 on deluxe colored vinyl (one disc is blue, and one pink to match the Cold Chillin' colors) plus matching, top quality Cold Chillin' slipmats (which are dyed, not screened as to not scuff your vinyl). The album itself is a hip-hop classic from 1988 featuring some of the dopest MC's of the time including Big Daddy Kane, Biz Markie, Kool G. Rap, Masta Ace, MC Shan, and Craig G, all ripping the mic over choice beats by the man himself, Marley Marl. This was one of the first albums to be credited to a producer, and it's easy to see why when you hear the beats on this thing. Too ill! Comes packaged in clear sleeve with obi-style insert, 2x vinyl and the two slipmats. Highly Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster

file under:
old school hip-hop + random rap / hip-hop vinyl / house / minimal / techno - classics / house / minimal / techno - reviewer recommended / and more

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Gaslamp Killer
Death Gate (Gonjasufi, Mophono, Computer Jay) 10"

heavy beats, psych-hop & dubstep

The Death Gate awaits you with five tracks from The Gaslamp Killer - and as always, he does not disappoint! The GLK enters dark dubstep realms on "Fun Over 100(1)" which consists of completely tripped-out synths layered over a shuffling drum machine beat that only clocks in at around two minutes but leaves a powerful impression. "When I'm In Awe(2)" featuring Gonjasufi is an ethiopian jazz sample-driven number that's dark, psyched-out, and unmistakably GLK. "Carpool Dummy(3)" with Mophono is a neckbreaker built on lethal, lo-fi drum loops that sound grimier with every listen, and "Shattering Inner Journeys(4)" featuring Computer Jay drops you square in the middle of a potent beat soup cooked up with insane drum patterns, dubby synths, and a slew of crazy effects. Highly recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
new school beats - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - vinyl / downtempo + electronic - recommended / downtempo + electronic - all / and more

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The Smiths
Unreleased Demos & Instrumentals (Blue Vinyl) 2LP

highly sought-after Smiths demos and instrumentals on blue vinyl

This blue, double-vinyl release contains some of the most sought after Smiths demos (some might be alternate master versions) and instrumentals, including an extended version of "The Queen Is Dead(1)"; "Frankly, Mr. Shankly(2)" with horns; "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out(3)" with the final refrain "there is a light in your eyes and it never goes out"; and "Death Of A Disco Dance(4)" with the improvised whistled solo as noted in Simon Goddard book. The two instrumentals are "I Misses You(5)" and "Heavy Track(6)". If you're a Smiths fan, this is a no brainer, and if you're concerned about the sound quality (since it's not exactly an "official" release), do not worry because Shota the Database approves. Act quick because the album has already sold out from a number of outlets. Recommended.
reviewed by nakinboots

file under:
various rock + everything else / new wave + no wave + electro / rock + new wave + 80/90s / and more

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Gaslamp Killer
Akuma No Chi Ga Odoru CD

limited edition mix for Low End Theory Japan Tour 2009

Just got in these "Akuma No Chi Ga Odoru" mixes from GLK. These were originally made up for the Low End Theory's 2009 Japan Tour but some copies managed to survive but don't expect them to last for long! As expected Gaslamp Killer tears it up on the mix, mixing everything from dubstep to hip-hop, psych rock to obscure beats, and even some Radiohead and Nine Inch Nails for good measure. It's all mixed together flawlesslessy with lots of unexpected turns and twists, plus crisp cutting thrown in over the top at just the right moments. You know what to do people - add to cart! Recommended.
reviewed by snackmaster


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Quiet Life
Conductor 5-Panel Hat - Black

workwear-inspired design

Quiet Life borrows from classic train engineer uniforms for this quality 5-panel hat. The perfect way to top off your workwear-insired outfits... One size fits all.
reviewed by NI

file under:
quiet life / hats

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Obey
Old Timers Snapback - Navy

classic design, 100% wool

Obey looks to vintage baseball gear for the Old Timers Snapback - think Field of Dreams with an Obey twist. 100% wool construction, custom embroidery on front, one size fits most.
reviewed by NI

file under:
books & design - new arrivals / all / obey / hats / and more

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Audioengine
A5+ Premium Powered Bookshelf Speaker System - Bamboo (A5+N)

built-in amplifier, sleek bamboo finish

LAB POINTS
- powered speakers, no need for amplifier
- USB power charge port
- custom kevlar woofers and silk tweeters
- advance tuned cabinet with rear-ported waveguide
- remote control
- RCA and mini-jack inputs
- stand-mount 1/4" threaded inserts
- magnetically shielded
- all cables included


LAB REVIEW
Audioengine's A5+ Premium Powered Bookshelf Speakers offer award-winning sound for all your music, requires no amp or receiver, and is wireless-ready. These speakers offer deep, powerful bass thanks to kevlar woofers, smooth highs from silk tweeters, built-in power amplifiers, truly useful connections, and a clean industrial design. It features custom designed and manufactured parts (woofers, tweeters, etc) hand crafted wood cabinets, and a handsome high gloss black piano finish. Best of all, the A5's offer unique features like a built-in USB power port to power your wireless products and stream music, or keep your iPod charged. Comes with all cables, and drawstring carry bags. Recommended.


MORE DETAILS
For more details, please visit the manufacturer's website.
reviewed by the mgmnt

file under:
monitors + speakers / audio engine store / audiophile gear / dj equipment - new arrivals

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