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Spotlight 29-30-31
Welcome to the Spot Light. Check out the latest psychedelic, cosmic, prog, freakbeat, folk, kraut, experimental, jazz, drone, mystical, and avant-garde sounds!
Looking for older versions of Spotlight Magazine, check the Spotlight Archive.
PSYCHEDELIC/PROGRESSIVE/FOLK
Tomoyuki Trio
Shitsuren
Second installment from Tomoyuki Trio, a blistering power trio featuring Tomoyuki Aoki, Mike Vest and Dave Sneddon. Tomoyuki Aoki is the founding member and lead guitarist of the legendary Japanese psychedelic rock band Up-Tight, who've been active and since 1992 building up a cult following worldwide. Collaboration between Tomoyuki Aoki and Mike Vest (of Blown Out, Bong, Modoki, Artifacts & Uranium, Drunk In Hell etc) greets two titans of guitar feedback and blissful improvised every-time leads. This is introverted mournful psychedelic rock music, yet it still grooves all the way to it's inevitable oblivion. Limited to 300 copies. Co-release with Feeding Tube Records.
Dead Sea Apes/the Band Whose Name Is A Symbol
Lunar Mansions/pantheon Of Fuckery Iii
Repress of 100 copies on hot pink vinyl, order fast, we only get a few! A long time in the making but good things always come to astral travellers as transatlantic soul mates Dead Sea Apes and The Band Whose Name Is A Symbol are joined together on black vinyl for the first time. Two artists that for over the last ten years (& longer) have spent their lives creating music that defies easy categorizations - psych rock/kraut rock/minimal/maximal/avant/free are phrases that only give you fleeting glimpses of what each artist represents. What we do know is that via a sprawling range of sound that is always uncompromising these two artists have pushed each other into a stunning realm of alchemy. The Dead Sea Apes create a hypnotic pulsing sound that weaves an ecstatic line starting from a raw minimal buzz and hum that takes in eastern modes and entrancing minimalism. The music is at once dissonant and hypnotic, rich with unfurling drones that dynamically ebb and flow as a searching interplay between instruments slowly emerges from a sparse open field and builds with the tension of a looming thunder storm. The Band Whose Name Is A Symbol recording is a live recording from the farmland in Richmond this year when Mr Cardinal Fuzz journeyed across the Atlantic Ocean to have his brain well and truly fried by these Ottawa acid punks. For this show TBWNIS was expanded to a 9 piece with the addition of Saskatoons Christopher Laramee (Shooting Guns, Wasted Cathedral, The Switching Yard..) and Mrs. Carol Lane (Resin Scraper/Beld). TBWNIS emerged to play as the Sun set over the never-ending Horizon and the Mozzies came out to play - And proceeded to lay down a barrage of high energy, free flowing ecstatic blues - like an endorphin spike into your cortex that felt like your head was sandwiched between the amplifiers as wave after wave of unrelenting free flowing orgasmic energy exploded within. Take note I was on some home made cookies that had me well and truly blasted as I merged with the universe and the vibrations emitting from the stage - it was a good place. 500 pressing. Black vinyl with a Brett Savage sleeve design based on the famous and much loved bootleg label - TAKRL.
Outrageous Cherry
Out There In The Dark (25th Anniversary)
First time on vinyl. Originally released via the DF2K (the contemporary sister label of Del-Fi, one of the classic labels of the '50s and '60s (Richie Valens/Bobby Fuller) and in Europe via Poptones (the label Alan McGee (with Joe Foster) set up after the sale of Creation Records - just to give you some idea of the high upon high esteem this LP was held in. While earlier records shared a love of The Turtles, The Troggs, Television Personalities (among a host of other stuff) - 'Out There In The Dark' feels like Eno and Hawkwind filtered through Petula Clark's hit singles and all Spectorized via Matthew Smiths wonderful analog production. Recorded at Jim Diamond's Ghetto Recorders Studio and making use of a huge ancient reel to reel machine (affectionately called 'Laurel and Hardy') that provides that superb tape echo effect employed across this LP. Like Guided By Voices, Outrageous Cherry's affection for this kind of music never sounds retro, and their experimental touches make 'Out There In The Dark' play like a jukebox full of forgotten hits, a time machine with its controls set for the past and the future. Across 13 tracks sweet melodies and harmonies soar over a vicious urban Motor City guitar workouts. Motown-fueled bass and drums throb hypnotically as Matthew Smith sings as though Brian Wilson had been an honorary Ramone. Beatle-esque pop numbers like 'Tracy,' 'Corruptable,' and the made-for-AM radio 'Where Do I Go When You Dream?' balancing moodier songs like the album's narcotic centerpiece, 'Easy Come, Uneasy Glow.' (dig that phasing). Their trippy side comes to the forefront on the excellent, backwards guitar driven 'Only The Easy Way Down,' as Larry Ray's solos cut like a jagged knife and in the title track's drifting guitars and shifting tempos. Smith's ultra-faithful, vintage production style sparkles on 'A Bad Movie' The album closer 'There's No Escape From The Infinite' ends in a trance-inducing guitar apocalypse that would make Spacemen 3 and The Jesus And Mary Chain proud. And jealous. Black vinyl with 4 page folded insert and gloss laminated outer sleeve. Co-release with Feeding Tube Records.
Alexander, Jeffrey -& The Heavy Lidders-
Spacious Minds, Vol. 1
"Jeffrey Alexander is a lifer. He has been flirting around the underground for the past thirty years - starting in Baltimore in the mid-'90s and later percolating in Providence, Pittsburgh, San Francisco and, now, Philadelphia. Throughout this span, he has run various record labels, worked in a bunch of record shops, organized music festivals, managed live venues, FM deejayed, jammed econo, booked endless tours and performed in a gaggle of groups from Black Forest/Black Sea to Dire Wolves to Jackie-O Motherfucker to The Iditarod and points in-between. And now we have The Heavy Lidders. Jeffrey Alexander + The Heavy Lidders takes the freaked improvisation of Alexander's instrumental band - DWLVS/Dire Wolves Just Exactly Perfect Sisters Band - into the world of song. Heady songwriting, ethereal jazz and Trad Gras-y blues stomps all feature. Backed by members of Elkhorn and Kohoutek. This vinyl (in 2 volumes) you hold in your hands is a collection of live Lidders that will surely wax your stem, and how! When Record Crates United invited JA+THL to perform at their inaugural garden party, not only did the Lidders show up with a one-off 'Live/Dead' cover as a surprise gift for Keith and Sarah, but they rolled in with the Jesse Sheppard mobile multi-track truck, as well. Fucking pros, mate. Most of the material here was captured that sunny afternoon in suburban New Jersey - and thank the Godz that we have this plastic burner. I missed the set, but Kenneth Higney was there and gave it two thumbs up! I know them Lidders have a deluxe studio LP lined up for September, but til then, this little box will comfortably help you break on through. But don't be fooled into thinking this is a mere EP. It's SEVENTY SIX minutes of pure medicated goo. Try fitting that on one of yr vinyls kid! Tapes are the best anyway - flip it over, grip it tighter, smell the shell - do it. Now dose your capstan and pinch your roller. Shit is about to get Lidded." ~Glen Burnout (on Sun Ra's arrival day 2023). Gloss laminated sleeve with artwork by Jake Blanchard. Co-release with Centripetal Force Records.
Alexander, Jeffrey -& The Heavy Lidders-
Spacious Minds, Vol. 2
"Jeffrey Alexander is a lifer. He has been flirting around the underground for the past thirty years - starting in Baltimore in the mid-'90s and later percolating in Providence, Pittsburgh, San Francisco and, now, Philadelphia. Throughout this span, he has run various record labels, worked in a bunch of record shops, organized music festivals, managed live venues, FM deejayed, jammed econo, booked endless tours and performed in a gaggle of groups from Black Forest/Black Sea to Dire Wolves to Jackie-O Motherfucker to The Iditarod and points in-between. And now we have The Heavy Lidders. Jeffrey Alexander + The Heavy Lidders takes the freaked improvisation of Alexander's instrumental band - DWLVS/Dire Wolves Just Exactly Perfect Sisters Band - into the world of song. Heady songwriting, ethereal jazz and Trad Gras-y blues stomps all feature. Backed by members of Elkhorn and Kohoutek. This vinyl (in 2 volumes) you hold in your hands is a collection of live Lidders that will surely wax your stem, and how! When Record Crates United invited JA+THL to perform at their inaugural garden party, not only did the Lidders show up with a one-off 'Live/Dead' cover as a surprise gift for Keith and Sarah, but they rolled in with the Jesse Sheppard mobile multi-track truck, as well. Fucking pros, mate. Most of the material here was captured that sunny afternoon in suburban New Jersey - and thank the Godz that we have this plastic burner. I missed the set, but Kenneth Higney was there and gave it two thumbs up! I know them Lidders have a deluxe studio LP lined up for September, but til then, this little box will comfortably help you break on through. But don't be fooled into thinking this is a mere EP. It's SEVENTY SIX minutes of pure medicated goo. Try fitting that on one of yr vinyls kid! Tapes are the best anyway - flip it over, grip it tighter, smell the shell - do it. Now dose your capstan and pinch your roller. Shit is about to get Lidded." ~Glen Burnout (on Sun Ra's arrival day 2023). Gloss laminated sleeve with artwork by Jake Blanchard. Co-release with Centripetal Force Records.
Orkestr
I
Orkestr is a space rock band from Horst aan de Maas, The Netherlands, that combines textured synths, melodic bass guitar and laid-back drums to create timeless soundscapes for your sci-fi dreams. Orkestr was formed in late 2019 by four seasoned musicians who earned their stripes in the local scene with bands such as No Man's Valley and The Mothmen. The COVID-19 pandemic presented an unexpected challenge, forcing them to pivot and focus on their studio craft. This unscheduled detour ultimately led to the creation of their debut album. Limited private-press vinyl version.
Black Pie
Angels
This band formed in 2023 in order to revive classic rock songs, giving them a contemporary feel with an innovative sound led by female vocals, a repertoire that saw them on tour in the summer of 2023. As the tour ended, Black Pie began to experiment in the studio: 'Angels,' their first original album came to life in a natural rush, a flow, an evolution of their individual compositional perspectives. Produced by the esteemed label Black Widow and united by a magical moment, the band created 10 tracks that are closely linked by a concept, but also work as stand alone tracks. The contemporary sound is unmistakable: pure rock with the daring nuances of their musical inspirations and influences... The bands that inspired this "fusion" are mainly Led Zeppelin, Rush, Kansas and Porcupine Tree.
Jess & The Ancient Ones
Jess & The Ancient Ones (black)
2024 repress of 2016 album. Jess and the Ancient Ones is an occult rock band from Kuopio, Finland. This seven-headed entity was given birth by Thomas Corpse and Thomas Fiend, its purpose being the exploration of magical realms beyond the mundane. The band's lyrical concept is based upon the personal occult experiences of the writers, which combined with music the creates a strong mystical atmosphere. With the vocal talent Jess as their frontwoman and three guitars in the lineup, JATAO draw inspiration from heavy metal and rock groups of the classic era, such as Mercyful Fate, Roky Erickson, Iron Maiden and Abba. A 53 minute moonlight ride into the nether regions of progressive occult heavy rock.
Whoopie Cat
Weight In Gold
Only 200 copies on heavy 180g transparent/shiny yellow vinyl in sturdy standard 350gsm sleeve. 2024 album by Whoopie Cat, the Melbourne-based band recognized for their psychedelic blues rock sound with progressive elements. This album weaves together their characteristic deep driving riffs and vocal harmonies with a broader, expansive psychedelic soundscape. The themes of 'Weight In Gold' explore mental health, spirituality, and the human condition, resonating deeply with listeners. Recorded by Marc Russo at Beveridge Road Recording Studios and released in April 2023, the album marks a significant evolution in Whoopie Cat's music, offering a rich, textured experience that contributes to Naarm/Melbourne's diverse music scene.
Sons Of Arrakis
Vol. Ii (black)
'Vol. II' is a departure from the intricate compositions of 'Vol. I,' presenting a more straightforward yet captivating musical expression. Rooted in the Sons Of Arrakis sci-fi desert rock tradition, 'Vol. II' ventures into progressive territories with syncopated signature riffs, more complex bridges, well thought transitions and harmonized guitar elements. Edition on red/green splatter vinyl.
GARAGE/BEAT/SURF/ROCK’N’ROLL
Skitzo
Skitzo Mania (black)
London psychobilly beasts Skitzo began in the mid-1980s as The Electros, when vocalist Phil O'Connor began screaming with bashing drummer, Rod Connor, bassist Tony Bronham and guitarist Tony McVey; by the time they signed to Nervous Records for this brilliantly ghoulish debut LP, drummer Steve Tomlinson was on board. Along with freaked-out originals like 'Witching Hour,' 'Possessed' and the crazed title track, there are fun covers of 'Lonesome Train,' 'Caldonia' and 'Your Cheating Heart,' all transformed the psychobilly way. If you like your psychobilly with the emphasis on the psycho, this one's for you! Originally released in 1987.
Nekromantix
Curse Of The Coffin (black)
Danish psychobilly trio Nekromantix formed in Copenhagen in 1989, melding heavy metal and some goth underpinnings in their style. After a well-received debut via Tombstone, the band reached greater heights with 1991's 'Curse Of The Coffin' for Nervous Records, perceptively produced by Micky Mutant of Meteors fame. With frontman Kim Gaarde playing a coffin-shaped bass, Pete Sandorff shredding speed-metal riffs on his guitar and drummer Peek never letting the pace drop below feverish, 'Curse Of The Coffin' is a wild ride that redefined the psychobilly genre, making Nekromantix leading lights of the second wave. A true killer!
Mings
Don't Make Sense
The long awaited third full length LP from this super group featuring Dead Elvis (NL), Marky Wildstone (from Brazil's Dead Rocks) and King Automatic (France). 10 blistering tracks of awesome garage originals (no covers), wild guitar licks, pounding drums and thundering basslines. Every track a sonic killer, full on assault for your ears. Albums as good as this don't come along very often! Limited edition of just 300 copies on heavyweight vinyl.
Terreur Twist
Hotep California (col)
Repress on coloured vinyl. 12 delicious surf tracks with a horror twist, recorded by a trio featuring ex-members of The Venturas. 'Hotep California' is this combo's debut-album.
INDUSTRIAL/EXPERIMENTAL/NOISE/NEOFOLK/GOTHIC
Berrocal, Jac/david Fenech/vincent Epplay
Broken Allures (black)
'Broken Allures,' the fifth LP from trio Jac Berrocal (Nurse With Wound collaborator), David Fenech, and Vincent Epplay (following releases on Blackest Ever Black, Akuphone, KlangGalerie), furthers their unique recording style with a musique concrète approach to mixing, characterized by the distinctive sound and technique of musicians and producers. For this album, the trio has invited two fantastic musicians to compose with them: Cosey Fanni Tutti (Throbbing Gristle, Chris & Cosey, COUM Transmissions) and Jah Wobble (Public Image Limited etc.).
METAL/STONER/HARDROCK
High Reeper
Renewed By Death (black)
Three years after appearing on the 'Doom Sessions Vol. 5' split, High Reeper are back with their most ambitious album yet, 'Renewed By Death.' A true heavy metal assault of eight tracks that take you on a journey to the darkest depths and leave you there to rot. Featuring monolithic riffs that pummel you from the opening of the album to the close, guitar solos reminiscent of George Lynch and Dave Navarro, and powerful vocals that deliver a knockout blow. This album showcases the band's desire to keep evolving and exploring new sounds and ideas. 'Renewed By Death' was produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by Shane Trimble at the band's brand new studio Sletner Sound in Wilmington, Delaware with Justin Di Pinto also engineering. The cover was done by Solomacello and photos of the band were done by Drew Wiedemann.
Crypt
The Crypt
Within the Swedish heavy metal community, Leif Ledling as revered as one of its most prolific songwriters. Alongside his renowed work with Candlemass he has also spearheaded projects like Krux and Avatarium, showcasing his enduring creativity. When news broke of his direct involvment in yet another band, speculation soon ran rampant within the community. The band is The Crypt, based out of Stockholm, Sweden. With a concept centered around a metal priestess, The Crypt's debut album deves into thems of darkness, death, and the undead, echoing the vibes of 1970s gothic, and occult bands such as Coven, Blue Oyster Cult, Black Sabbath and Pentagram. Recorded with top-tier Swedish musicians under the guidance of producer Marcus Jidell, the album effortlessly combines dark atmospheres with catchy melodies and powerful riffs, reminiscent of rock's most golden era.
REGGAE/DUB/SKA/ROCKSTEADY
Marshall, Larry
I Admire You
Repress! Reissue of 1975 roots reggae album by Larry Marshall. This was his second album.
Lone Ranger
Dee Jay Daddy
Lone Ranger (born Anthony Alphanso Waldron, 2 November 1958) is a Jamaican reggae deejay who recorded nine albums between the late 1970s and mid-1980s. His 1984 album 'Dee Jay Daddy' is a masterpiece!
Black Stallion
We Are Men
Previously unreleased recordings from 1974. Mixed by Al Breadwinner in 2023 after restoration of the multitrack tape.