1
DKMA - Something About You
2
DKMA - Lively
3
DKMA - Trifling
4
DKMA - DAT-01_01
5
DKMA - Misguided
6
DKMA - The Safe
7
DKMA - DAT-10_04
8
DKMA - Can You Compute
Dana Kelley, aka DKMA, is a much revered writer, producer, remixer, performer and creative force whose releases have become timeless classics and Holy Grails amongst DJs, music heads and collectors alike. A true artist and innovator, his productions possess the unique ability to engage, transport, challenge and enthral as only next level musicians can. Grounded in the deep, soulful US House sound of the mid '90's, his earliest releases can be found on Strictly Rhythm, before moving on to produce under his DKMA alias as well as releasing music as Callisto on Guidance. Although Dana sadly passed away in 2013, he left us with a remarkable body of work that has remained both exciting and relevant throughout the last 2 decades and beyond. Boston Boy Vol.2 is the 2nd in a series of compilations that focuses on Dana's visionary work as DKMA, during his most compelling and creative phase between 1997 and 2002. The compilations themselves are collated from an incredible & far reaching archive of over 20 of Dana's original DATs that have been generously shared with us by the Kelley Family. In the archive, some of Dana's most sought after & cherished works were uncovered, restored and meticulously assembled alongside previously unheard archival material. The tracks themselves are bold, clever and inventive, characterised by a need for innovation. Passages of deep soulful house underpin more forward thinking electronics without ever losing dance floor appeal. Jazz solos sit imaginatively on top of gritty swinging rhythms, deep infectious b-lines, eerie textures and chord sequences are warm and effortlessly soulful yet with a sound design, sonic range, dynamism and a technical prowess that most could only dream of. These compilations celebrate the life, vision and art of one of house music's most hallowed producers. Unique and essential, these collections pull together DKMA's most coveted works. Respectfully sourced, restored and compiled from all audio sources courtesy of the Kelley family and Above Board Projects.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
More records from DKMA
1
DKMA - Savages
2
DKMA - DAT-17_08
3
DKMA - Deconstruct
4
DKMA - Wolfen
5
DKMA - DAT-05_01
6
DKMA - Twilight
7
DKMA - Luv 'n' Pain
8
DKMA - Inside My Soul
Dana Kelley, aka DKMA, is a much revered writer, producer, remixer, performer and creative force whose releases have become timeless classics and Holy Grails amongst DJs, music heads and collectors alike. A true artist and innovator, his productions possess the unique ability to engage, transport, challenge and enthral as only next level musicians can. Grounded in the deep, soulful US House sound of the mid '90's, his earliest releases can be found on Strictly Rhythm, before moving on to produce under his DKMA alias as well as releasing music as Callisto on Guidance. Although Dana sadly passed away in 2013, he left us with a remarkable body of work that has remained both exciting and relevant throughout the last 2 decades and beyond. Boston Boy Vol.3 is the 3rd in a series of compilations that focuses on Dana's visionary work as DKMA, during his most compelling and creative phase between 1997 and 2002. The compilations themselves are collated from an incredible & far reaching archive of over 20 of Dana's original DATs that have been generously shared with us by the Kelley Family. In the archive, some of Dana's most sought after & cherished works were uncovered, restored and meticulously assembled alongside previously unheard archival material.The tracks themselves are bold, clever and inventive, characterised by a need for innovation. Passages of deep soulful house underpin more forward thinking electronics without ever losing dance floor appeal. Jazz solos sit imaginatively on top of gritty swinging rhythms, deep infectious b-lines, eerie textures and chord sequences are warm and effortlessly soulful yet with a sound design, sonic range, dynamism and a technical prowess that most could only dream of.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
DKMA - Creepin'
2
DKMA - Blow It Up
3
DKMA - Spin Hands
4
DKMA - DAT-15_06
5
DKMA - Soul
6
DKMA - DAT-10_02
7
DKMA - Next To You
8
DKMA - Visitors
Dana Kelley, aka DKMA, is a much revered writer, producer, remixer, performer and creative force whose releases have become timeless classics and Holy Grails amongst DJs, music heads and collectors alike. A true artist and innovator, his productions possess the unique ability to engage, transport, challenge and enthral as only next level musicians can. Grounded in the deep, soulful US House sound of the mid 90s, his earliest releases can be found on Strictly Rhythm, before moving on to produce under his DKMA alias as well as releasing music as Callisto on Guidance. Although Dana sadly passed away in 2013, he left us with a remarkable body of work that has remained both exciting and relevant throughout the last 2 decades and beyond. Boston Boy Vol.1 is the 1st in a series of compilations that focuses on Dana's visionary work as DKMA, during his most compelling and creative phase between 1997 and 2002. The compilations themselves are collated from an incredible & far reaching archive of over 20 of Dana's original DATs that have been generously shared with us by the Kelley Family. In the archive, some of Dana's most sought after & cherished works were uncovered, restored and meticulously assembled alongside previously unheard archival material. The tracks themselves are bold, clever and inventive, characterised by a need for innovation. Passages of deep soulful house underpin more forward thinking electronics without ever losing dance floor appeal. Jazz solos sit effortlessly on top of gritty swinging rhythms, deep infectious b-lines, eerie textures and chord sequences are warm and effortlessly soulful yet with a sound design, sonic range, dynamism and a technical prowess that most could only dream of.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
More records from Guidance
1
DKMA - Savages
2
DKMA - DAT-17_08
3
DKMA - Deconstruct
4
DKMA - Wolfen
5
DKMA - DAT-05_01
6
DKMA - Twilight
7
DKMA - Luv 'n' Pain
8
DKMA - Inside My Soul
Dana Kelley, aka DKMA, is a much revered writer, producer, remixer, performer and creative force whose releases have become timeless classics and Holy Grails amongst DJs, music heads and collectors alike. A true artist and innovator, his productions possess the unique ability to engage, transport, challenge and enthral as only next level musicians can. Grounded in the deep, soulful US House sound of the mid '90's, his earliest releases can be found on Strictly Rhythm, before moving on to produce under his DKMA alias as well as releasing music as Callisto on Guidance. Although Dana sadly passed away in 2013, he left us with a remarkable body of work that has remained both exciting and relevant throughout the last 2 decades and beyond. Boston Boy Vol.3 is the 3rd in a series of compilations that focuses on Dana's visionary work as DKMA, during his most compelling and creative phase between 1997 and 2002. The compilations themselves are collated from an incredible & far reaching archive of over 20 of Dana's original DATs that have been generously shared with us by the Kelley Family. In the archive, some of Dana's most sought after & cherished works were uncovered, restored and meticulously assembled alongside previously unheard archival material.The tracks themselves are bold, clever and inventive, characterised by a need for innovation. Passages of deep soulful house underpin more forward thinking electronics without ever losing dance floor appeal. Jazz solos sit imaginatively on top of gritty swinging rhythms, deep infectious b-lines, eerie textures and chord sequences are warm and effortlessly soulful yet with a sound design, sonic range, dynamism and a technical prowess that most could only dream of.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
DKMA - Creepin'
2
DKMA - Blow It Up
3
DKMA - Spin Hands
4
DKMA - DAT-15_06
5
DKMA - Soul
6
DKMA - DAT-10_02
7
DKMA - Next To You
8
DKMA - Visitors
Dana Kelley, aka DKMA, is a much revered writer, producer, remixer, performer and creative force whose releases have become timeless classics and Holy Grails amongst DJs, music heads and collectors alike. A true artist and innovator, his productions possess the unique ability to engage, transport, challenge and enthral as only next level musicians can. Grounded in the deep, soulful US House sound of the mid 90s, his earliest releases can be found on Strictly Rhythm, before moving on to produce under his DKMA alias as well as releasing music as Callisto on Guidance. Although Dana sadly passed away in 2013, he left us with a remarkable body of work that has remained both exciting and relevant throughout the last 2 decades and beyond. Boston Boy Vol.1 is the 1st in a series of compilations that focuses on Dana's visionary work as DKMA, during his most compelling and creative phase between 1997 and 2002. The compilations themselves are collated from an incredible & far reaching archive of over 20 of Dana's original DATs that have been generously shared with us by the Kelley Family. In the archive, some of Dana's most sought after & cherished works were uncovered, restored and meticulously assembled alongside previously unheard archival material. The tracks themselves are bold, clever and inventive, characterised by a need for innovation. Passages of deep soulful house underpin more forward thinking electronics without ever losing dance floor appeal. Jazz solos sit effortlessly on top of gritty swinging rhythms, deep infectious b-lines, eerie textures and chord sequences are warm and effortlessly soulful yet with a sound design, sonic range, dynamism and a technical prowess that most could only dream of.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Callisto - The Cimmerian
2
Callisto - Basic Lytes
3
Callisto - Junkle II
4
Callisto - Bongette
5
Callisto - Bounce
6
Callisto - Ambent II
7
Callisto - Meta
8
Callisto - Need Ur Love (Stalagite Mix)
Boston's Dana Kelley aka Callisto is a man whose music has long been the subject of much deserved adulation. A student of the deep and soulful, an explorer of the melodic and galactic, and an artist who manages to capture imaginations with his supremely crafted sonics. He is a much missed artist, someone who departed the physical too early, but the body of work he left behind has spoken to generations of listeners, DJ's and fans in equal measure. This is the third and final instalment of 3 compilations focused on Callisto's golden period of productions for the legendary Chicago label Guidance Recordings. As with the other volumes that preceded it, it's an outright and joyous celebration of his music, his vision and the forward looking nature of his music that is still intact today. It's hard to think of someone with a more unique style and with a truer idea of their own sound-world. Callisto takes us deep inside, into other worlds with his own individualistic take on house, techno, ambient and even jungle and D&B. These compilations celebrate one of the most idiosyncratic artists from the second wave of US house music producers, a truly essential body of work presented here respectfully, sourced from all audio sources courtesy of Above Board Projects, Guidance Recordings and Dana's family. Mastered by Curved, London and with special artwork by Atelier Superplus featuring a never before seen image of Dana from his family's photo albums.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Callisto - The Groove
2
Callisto - Ambent I
3
Callisto - Fanta C
4
Callisto - Resistance
5
Callisto - Str8 Up
6
Callisto - Evergreen
Boston's Dana Kelley aka Callisto is a man whose music has long been the subject of much deserved adulation. A student of the deep and soulful, an explorer of the melodic and galactic, and an artist who manages to capture imaginations with his supremely crafted sonics. He is a much missed artist, someone who departed the physical too early, but the body of work he left behind has spoken to generations of listeners, DJ's and fans in equal measure. This, the second instalment of 3 compilations focused on Callisto's golden period of productions for the legendary Chicago label Guidance Recordings, sees even more of Dana's most highly coveted work featured side by side, chock full of rarities and classics. A celebration of the man's music, his vision and the forward looking nature of his music that is still intact today. It's hard to think of someone with a more unique style and with a truer idea of their own sound-world. Callisto takes us deep inside, into other worlds with his own individualistic take on house, techno, ambient and even jungle and D&B These compilations celebrate one of the most idiosyncratic artists from the second wave of US house music producers, a truly essential body of work presented here respectfully, sourced from all audio sources courtesy of Above Board Projects, Guidance Recordings and Dana's family. Mastered by Curved, London and with special artwork by Atelier Superplus featuring a never before seen image of Dana from his family's photo albums.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Callisto - No Title
2
Callisto - No Title
3
Callisto - No Title
4
Callisto - No Title
5
Callisto - No Title
6
Callisto - No Title
7
Callisto - No Title
8
Callisto - No Title
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Customers who bought this also bought this
1
Coastal Commission - Straight No Chaser
2
Coastal Commission - Rhodes Through Space
Growing up on the slag heaps of County Durham Northumbria, young Sam Robson dreamed of one day finding a better way & somewhere to live with nicer bloody weather! An avid record collector from an early age he looked to music for the answer…
Born in Bradford in the late 60's and growing up in the North-East in the 70's, alternative music fast became his obsession from punk, to new wave, two tone, rock and new romantic he collected it all. Electro and Hip Hop hit his local boombox in the form of "Crucial Electro" on StreetSounds Records and he was soon hungry for anything new & electronic coming out of the U.S.
His call was answered one day at school his mate Gareth (a fellow music enthusiast) lent him a 12" record from Chicago that opened up his mind & changed his course. The piano and gospel tinged record was none other than Marshall Jefferson's "House Music Anthem" that told him "to move your body" and that "house music was gonna set you free…' The rest is History. forward 10 years later to 1996 and Big Sam is now DJing a weekly House night in Santa Barbara alongside LA stalwart DJ Doc Martin. He lives just south of Santa Barbara two blocks from the Pacific Ocean in the sunny beach town of Carpinteria, (about an hour north of Los Angeles).
The warehouse is kitted out with a full studio set up of Roland Corp's latest & greatest but he also has the City Planning Commission breathing down his neck and threatening the boot as his residence unbeknownst to him had been built without any city permits! He is told that his only hope for keeping his building safe from demolition is THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION who protect everything 3 miles in on the entire California coast.
With the Coastal Commission on his mind & while managing L.A Dance Mecca music store "Beatnonstop Records" he meets fellow Brit, musician & house-head Chris Penny aka CPen. They quickly bond at The Cat & the Fiddle over a pint & early 90's rave and Jungle toons. Sam invites Chris up to his studio in Carpinteria for a weekend getaway from LosAngeles and a studio seshion. That night they stuff Chris's Rhodes piano in the boot of Sam's tiny Beemer and shoot up the coast on Highway 101 Carpinteria bound with their mate Lil Johnny "Toaster Oven."
After burning the midnight oil (with fellow studio boffin & PCH engineer "Evil Eye" Nate), when daylight broke "Rhodes through Space" was born. A mastering session was quickly booked and the white labels arrived a week later where they were quickly stuffed into a suitcase and it was off to South Beach/Miami to promote the track at for WMC aka Winter Music Conference. In quiet desperation and not knowing what to name the collective "COASTAL COMMISSION' featuring CPen was agreed upon and scribbled onto the White Labels. As fortune would have it, Sam would run into Philly House stalwart King Britt outside his hotel who was a regular customer at the store back in L.A. King would be one of the first peeps to receive a copy of the record. That night King invited Sam to the club where he broke the track at the Basement Jaxx Conference party party to a packed house alongside legends Daft Punk, Armand Van Helden & DJ Sneak.
25 years later the Coastal Commission are back, remastered and Cpen has since received two Grammys with Honey Dijon for their work on Beyonce's House album. "Rhodes Through Space" is a musical tribute to the club/rave/warehouse party that is still relatable to this very day.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Born in Bradford in the late 60's and growing up in the North-East in the 70's, alternative music fast became his obsession from punk, to new wave, two tone, rock and new romantic he collected it all. Electro and Hip Hop hit his local boombox in the form of "Crucial Electro" on StreetSounds Records and he was soon hungry for anything new & electronic coming out of the U.S.
His call was answered one day at school his mate Gareth (a fellow music enthusiast) lent him a 12" record from Chicago that opened up his mind & changed his course. The piano and gospel tinged record was none other than Marshall Jefferson's "House Music Anthem" that told him "to move your body" and that "house music was gonna set you free…' The rest is History. forward 10 years later to 1996 and Big Sam is now DJing a weekly House night in Santa Barbara alongside LA stalwart DJ Doc Martin. He lives just south of Santa Barbara two blocks from the Pacific Ocean in the sunny beach town of Carpinteria, (about an hour north of Los Angeles).
The warehouse is kitted out with a full studio set up of Roland Corp's latest & greatest but he also has the City Planning Commission breathing down his neck and threatening the boot as his residence unbeknownst to him had been built without any city permits! He is told that his only hope for keeping his building safe from demolition is THE CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION who protect everything 3 miles in on the entire California coast.
With the Coastal Commission on his mind & while managing L.A Dance Mecca music store "Beatnonstop Records" he meets fellow Brit, musician & house-head Chris Penny aka CPen. They quickly bond at The Cat & the Fiddle over a pint & early 90's rave and Jungle toons. Sam invites Chris up to his studio in Carpinteria for a weekend getaway from LosAngeles and a studio seshion. That night they stuff Chris's Rhodes piano in the boot of Sam's tiny Beemer and shoot up the coast on Highway 101 Carpinteria bound with their mate Lil Johnny "Toaster Oven."
After burning the midnight oil (with fellow studio boffin & PCH engineer "Evil Eye" Nate), when daylight broke "Rhodes through Space" was born. A mastering session was quickly booked and the white labels arrived a week later where they were quickly stuffed into a suitcase and it was off to South Beach/Miami to promote the track at for WMC aka Winter Music Conference. In quiet desperation and not knowing what to name the collective "COASTAL COMMISSION' featuring CPen was agreed upon and scribbled onto the White Labels. As fortune would have it, Sam would run into Philly House stalwart King Britt outside his hotel who was a regular customer at the store back in L.A. King would be one of the first peeps to receive a copy of the record. That night King invited Sam to the club where he broke the track at the Basement Jaxx Conference party party to a packed house alongside legends Daft Punk, Armand Van Helden & DJ Sneak.
25 years later the Coastal Commission are back, remastered and Cpen has since received two Grammys with Honey Dijon for their work on Beyonce's House album. "Rhodes Through Space" is a musical tribute to the club/rave/warehouse party that is still relatable to this very day.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Theo Parrish / The Unit - Solitary Flight
2
Theo Parrish / The Unit - Solitary Flight (Live)
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
T.V. Babies - Deeper Situation
2
Smart Alex - Specially Hot (Peace Division Remix)
12" non-returnable!
The new Endell Street release is another essential excavation from the deep, rare archives of London's early 00's tech house movement.
On the A side, the elusive T.V. Babies project finally sees the light of day, a hidden gem from some of the era's most respected spinners, delivering that unmistakable after hours groove that defined the generation. Flip it over for the heavyweight Peace Division's legendary remix of Smart Alex, a track that turned heads on the release and still carries the same raw, driving energy today.
A deep, funky and timeless slice of UK tech house, crafted for the heads and anyone tuned into the true Endell Street vibe.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
The new Endell Street release is another essential excavation from the deep, rare archives of London's early 00's tech house movement.
On the A side, the elusive T.V. Babies project finally sees the light of day, a hidden gem from some of the era's most respected spinners, delivering that unmistakable after hours groove that defined the generation. Flip it over for the heavyweight Peace Division's legendary remix of Smart Alex, a track that turned heads on the release and still carries the same raw, driving energy today.
A deep, funky and timeless slice of UK tech house, crafted for the heads and anyone tuned into the true Endell Street vibe.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Robert Leiner - Out Of Control
2
Robert Leiner - Visions Of The Past
3
Robert Leiner - Interval
4
Robert Leiner - To Places You've Never Been
5
Robert Leiner - Aqua Viva
6
Robert Leiner - Full Moon Ritual
7
Robert Leiner - Zenit
8
Robert Leiner - Dream Of Reality
9
Robert Leiner - From Beyond And Back
10
Robert Leiner - Northern Dark
Swedish producer Robert Leiner’s landmark 1994 album ‘Visions Of The Past’ finally gets a vinyl LP reissue on Apollo, the ‘ambient division’ of R&S Records. Long regarded as one of the pivotal ambient/electronic long players, the album has stood the test of time and serves as a reminder on how potent the early ambient techno releases were.
Leiner was a central figure in the early European techno and ambient landscape, carving out a distinctive sound that bridged atmospheric depth and rhythmic intensity. Known for his releases as The Source Experience and contributions to the R&S/Apollo catalogue, as a producer and engineer, Leiner’s work resonated across the underground, earning him a reputation for visionary, emotionally charged productions that stood apart from his contemporaries.
'Visions Of The Past’ captures this duality perfectly with expansive ambient passages that drift into hypnotic techno, while layers of intricate sound design and pulsating low end create a timeless and immersive listening experience. Tracks unfold with patience and precision, like the 12-minute-long marine epic ‘Aqua Viva’, balancing introspection with kinetic dance energy, and the new age ambience of ‘Dream Or Reality’ and ‘Northern Dark’ embodying the forward-thinking ethos that defined Apollo’s golden era.
Three decades on, this long out of print album finally returns on vinyl format, freshly remastered and restored, reaffirming its status as an essential document of electronic music’s evolution and Robert Leiner’s enduring influence.
‘Visions Of The Past’ by Robert Leiner is available on Apollo Records from 7th November 2025.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Leiner was a central figure in the early European techno and ambient landscape, carving out a distinctive sound that bridged atmospheric depth and rhythmic intensity. Known for his releases as The Source Experience and contributions to the R&S/Apollo catalogue, as a producer and engineer, Leiner’s work resonated across the underground, earning him a reputation for visionary, emotionally charged productions that stood apart from his contemporaries.
'Visions Of The Past’ captures this duality perfectly with expansive ambient passages that drift into hypnotic techno, while layers of intricate sound design and pulsating low end create a timeless and immersive listening experience. Tracks unfold with patience and precision, like the 12-minute-long marine epic ‘Aqua Viva’, balancing introspection with kinetic dance energy, and the new age ambience of ‘Dream Or Reality’ and ‘Northern Dark’ embodying the forward-thinking ethos that defined Apollo’s golden era.
Three decades on, this long out of print album finally returns on vinyl format, freshly remastered and restored, reaffirming its status as an essential document of electronic music’s evolution and Robert Leiner’s enduring influence.
‘Visions Of The Past’ by Robert Leiner is available on Apollo Records from 7th November 2025.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Label:Lo Recordings
Cat-No:Lo253
Release-Date:09.01.2026
Genre:Electronic, Electronica
Configuration:2LP
Label:Lo Recordings
Cat-No:Lo253
Release-Date:09.01.2026
Genre:Electronic, Electronica
Configuration:2LP
1
Susumu Yokota - Saku
2
Susumu Yokota - Uchu Tanjyo
3
Susumu Yokota - Hagoromo
4
Susumu Yokota - Genshi
5
Susumu Yokota - Gekkoh
6
Susumu Yokota - Kirakiraboshi
7
Susumu Yokota - Kodomotachi
8
Susumu Yokota - Hisen
9
Susumu Yokota - Tobiume
10
Susumu Yokota - Naminote
11
Susumu Yokota - Shinsen
12
Susumu Yokota - Azukiiro No Kaori
Repress coming on the 19th of December!
Format:
- Limited edition petrol blue 2x12” vinyl LP.
- Housed in PMS printed inner sleeve, featuring custom fonts by No Format and spot gloss abstraction of the original album artwork.
- Accompanied with a double sided 2-panel insert and double sided 4 panel poster.
- All sleeved in a custom PMS reverse board outer sleeve with die cut square centre panel and belly band.
Sakura is without doubt the most loved and lauded entry in Susumu Yokota’s catalogue.
The music unravels like cascades of petals falling from the eponymous cherry blossom trees. Yokota intended to ‘express ki-do-ai-raku (the four emotions; joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness) through music’, and throughout Sakura, the effect fluctuates between profound tranquillity, hesitation, melancholy and joy with ease, addressing the fickle nature of human emotion, while transcending the inclination to label moods entirely.
Sakura became Yokota’s best selling album. It was greeted with universal acclaim, lauded by Philip Glass and Brian Eno and launched Yokota internationally.
‘A bittersweet beauty, heightened by the sadness that all things must one day end.’ - Martyn Pepperell
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Format:
- Limited edition petrol blue 2x12” vinyl LP.
- Housed in PMS printed inner sleeve, featuring custom fonts by No Format and spot gloss abstraction of the original album artwork.
- Accompanied with a double sided 2-panel insert and double sided 4 panel poster.
- All sleeved in a custom PMS reverse board outer sleeve with die cut square centre panel and belly band.
Sakura is without doubt the most loved and lauded entry in Susumu Yokota’s catalogue.
The music unravels like cascades of petals falling from the eponymous cherry blossom trees. Yokota intended to ‘express ki-do-ai-raku (the four emotions; joy, anger, sorrow, and happiness) through music’, and throughout Sakura, the effect fluctuates between profound tranquillity, hesitation, melancholy and joy with ease, addressing the fickle nature of human emotion, while transcending the inclination to label moods entirely.
Sakura became Yokota’s best selling album. It was greeted with universal acclaim, lauded by Philip Glass and Brian Eno and launched Yokota internationally.
‘A bittersweet beauty, heightened by the sadness that all things must one day end.’ - Martyn Pepperell
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Pete Blaker - New World
2
Pete Blaker - Down & Dots
Disco Edits
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Deep Joy - Fall (Andrew Weatherall Let There Be Drums Mix)
2
Thrashing Doves - Je$u$ on the Payroll (Unreleased Instrumental Version)
3
Kc Flightt - Let’s Get Jazzy (Dope Dub Mix)
4
The Metaluna Mutant - Blinky Blue Eyed Sunrise (Original Mix)
Following on from the super-fast stock sell-outs of the 2LP of joyous Alfredo selections, Rebirth follow up with the first of the sample EPs of rare, cherished and formerly unreleased gems. Deep Joy of Brainiak (and Mo Wax) fame had their stunning “Fall” track remixed by lord Sabre, Andrew Weatherall himself; an often-missed indie-chug delight from the early 90’s. The Thrashing Doves and their scene stamping classic Je$u$ on the Payroll, needs very little introduction, but this Unreleased Instrumental Version, like it states, has never been on vinyl before. Flip over for another hip hop/club hybrid of a track with KC Flightt’s “Lets get Jazzy”, and its iconic sound which was remixed by the legendary Blaze; then finishing up with sunrise/sunset jamm, “Blinky Blue Eyed Sunrise”, by The Metaluna Mutant. A must for any lover of the white isle and it’s heritage.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Islandman - Rüzgar
2
Islandman - Adada
3
Islandman - Eros
4
Islandman - Ala Geyik
5
Islandman - Cool Saz
6
Islandman - SLWLY
Island5 is Islandman’s most focused and detailed exploration of Anatolian psychedelia to date. They re-imagine the deep-rooted sounds of Anatolia through a modern lens. To them, this music isn’t frozen in time — it’s alive, shifting, and always becoming. Tradition, in their hands, isn’t something to preserve in glass, but something to carry, stretch, and let grow.
Each track offers a different angle into this reimagined sound. Analog synths mimic reed instruments, fuzzed guitars evoke forgotten tales, and percussion carries both the pulse of the city and the stillness of rural ground. There are meditative passages that invite silence (Slwly), and sunlit grooves that move the body before the mind (Adada, Rüzgar). Everything flows as if improvised—but nothing feels accidental.
Tracklisting
1 Rüzgar
2 Adada
3 Eros
4 Ala Geyik
5 Cool Saz
6 SLWLY
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Each track offers a different angle into this reimagined sound. Analog synths mimic reed instruments, fuzzed guitars evoke forgotten tales, and percussion carries both the pulse of the city and the stillness of rural ground. There are meditative passages that invite silence (Slwly), and sunlit grooves that move the body before the mind (Adada, Rüzgar). Everything flows as if improvised—but nothing feels accidental.
Tracklisting
1 Rüzgar
2 Adada
3 Eros
4 Ala Geyik
5 Cool Saz
6 SLWLY
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Franz Scala - New Look (feat. Furotica)
2
Franz Scala - Echoes Of Love
3
Franz Scala - Telephone Boy
4
Franz Scala - Light Year Run
5
Franz Scala - Saxon Rebel (feat. Local Suicide)
6
Franz Scala - Crush Test (feat. Charlie)
7
Franz Scala - BIT99
8
Franz Scala - Fantasy Bazar
9
Franz Scala - Fase Lunare (feat. Acid Gymnastics)
2026 repress
Format: 2LP (LP1+LP2)
Tracklist:
A1 / Franz Scala - New Look (feat. Furotica)
A2 / Franz Scala - Echoes Of Love
B1 / Franz Scala - Telephone Boy
B2 / Franz Scala - Light Year Run
C1 / Franz Scala - Saxon Rebel (feat. Local Suicide)
C2 / Franz Scala - Crush Test (feat. Charlie)
D1 / Franz Scala - BIT99
D2 / Franz Scala - Fantasy Bazar
D3 / Franz Scala - Fase Lunare (feat. Acid Gymnastics)
Key Selling Points
Slow Motion Records founder Franz Scala announces the infectious, ground-moving LP 'Cafe Futuro', a follow-up to his highly acclaimed debut ‘Mondo Della Notte’. Homage to the influential Neukolln bar and meeting point for Italo and Cosmic disco heads, 'Cafe Futuro' builds upon a bold and innovative sound, showcasing fellow creators and genre-defining artists, solidifying the Italo Aficionados sound, synonymous with the pioneering greats.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Format: 2LP (LP1+LP2)
Tracklist:
A1 / Franz Scala - New Look (feat. Furotica)
A2 / Franz Scala - Echoes Of Love
B1 / Franz Scala - Telephone Boy
B2 / Franz Scala - Light Year Run
C1 / Franz Scala - Saxon Rebel (feat. Local Suicide)
C2 / Franz Scala - Crush Test (feat. Charlie)
D1 / Franz Scala - BIT99
D2 / Franz Scala - Fantasy Bazar
D3 / Franz Scala - Fase Lunare (feat. Acid Gymnastics)
Key Selling Points
Slow Motion Records founder Franz Scala announces the infectious, ground-moving LP 'Cafe Futuro', a follow-up to his highly acclaimed debut ‘Mondo Della Notte’. Homage to the influential Neukolln bar and meeting point for Italo and Cosmic disco heads, 'Cafe Futuro' builds upon a bold and innovative sound, showcasing fellow creators and genre-defining artists, solidifying the Italo Aficionados sound, synonymous with the pioneering greats.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
MIA - Love Me Right
2
MIA - Creatures Of The Night
Miami's MIA made her debut for MANGO HILL records in 2020 with the heart- shaped "SOMETHING 'BOUT YOUR LOVE". The out of print "LOVE ME RIGHT" is now back available thanks to STAR CREATURE. "Bedroom meets dancefloor tough but tender gangster groove". B/w "CREATURES OF THE NIGHT".
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Reflection - Because
2
Ara Pacis - To The Westcoast
3
Mainpoint - Frisbee
4
Nuages - Strange Weekend
5
Austrian Sky - Dieter Heyduk
6
Gavin James - River of Laughter
7
Top Spin - Bikin
8
Jan Pack Band - Cable Dance
9
Goldfinger - Walkin' In The Sand
10
Major Seven - Silverboat
ONLY Europe! NO rest of WW / UK!
When people think of Yacht Rock-those smooth, sun-drenched sounds that once drifted from Californian radio stations in the late '70s and early '80s-they rarely imagine it echoing through rehearsal rooms in Hamburg or Linz. Yet even far from the Pacific coastline, the appeal of shimmering chords, laid-back grooves, and polished production found fertile ground.
This compilation gathers rare and overlooked tracks from Germany and Austria. These artists embraced West Coast aesthetics with sincerity and subtle twists, resulting in music that feels both familiar and refreshingly new-smooth sounds for cloudy skies. So drop anchor, pour something cool, and enjoy this unexpected cruise through the lesser-charted waters of Euro Yacht Rock.
Our journey begins in Austria, where Reflection's Because (1981) set the tone with blue-eyed soul and analogue warmth-a sunlit blend of Doobie Brothers polish and local charm. Its creator, Dieter Heyduk, reappears with Austrian Sky, a heartfelt nod to his homeland that fuses mountain calm with oceanic longing.
From the North Sea island of Föhr, Ara Pacis dreamed of California on their 1979 self-release To the Westcoast. Inspired by Steely Dan and Lake, they turned German rock precision into breezy, melodic sophistication. Meanwhile, in Düsseldorf, Mainpoint fused funk and jazz-rock on Frisbee, their 1980 single bursting with rhythmic drive and optimism before the tide of the Neue Deutsche Welle swept such grooves aside.
Bremerhaven's Nuages offered the compilation's only instrumental gem, Strange Weekend (1985)-a gentle blend of jazz-funk and rock and largely lost to time. Its cool restraint captures the European interpretation of Californian ease.
Around the same period, British traveler Gavin James recorded River of Laughter in southern Germany, backed by the blues-rock band Black Cat Bone. His acoustic reflections on water and flow mirrored the soft, meditative pulse at Yacht Rock's core.
Berlin's Top Spin kept things playful with Bikin (1985), a funk-fusion snapshot of urban joy that showcased the city's finest session players. From the Ruhr area, the Jan Pack Band is up next. While not a typical Yacht Rock track, Cable Dance is driven by an effortless, groovy '80s vibe.
Peter Seiler's Goldfinger project reimagined Walkin' in the Sand as a relaxed reggae-tinged track, while Munich's Major Seven closed the voyage with Silverboat, a wistful soft rock ballad gliding between melancholy and light.
Across these hidden harbors of German and Austrian pop, the West Coast dream took on new forms-reflected in rivers, skies, and studio lights half a world away from L.A. Under and Above the Clouds celebrates that spirit: the enduring pull of smooth music, wherever it's made.
Special remarks:
- Co-release with Tramp Records
- First ever German Yacht Rock compilation with a selection of extremely rare tunes
- Fully Licenced
- Thick gatefold sleeve with hype sticker and extended liner notes
- Artwork by Chrisse Kunst
- Pressed on BIO VINYL -> Replacement of petroleum in S-PVC by recycling used cooking oil or industrial waste gases
- Manufactured in Germany
Tracklist:
Side A:
Reflection - Because
Ara Pacis - To The Westcoast
Mainpoint - Frisbee
Nuages - Strange Weekend
Dieter Heyduk - Austrian Sky
Side B:
Gavin James - River of Laughter
Top Spin - Bikin
Jan Pack Band - Cable Dance
Goldfinger - Walkin' In The Sand
Major Seven - Silverboat
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
When people think of Yacht Rock-those smooth, sun-drenched sounds that once drifted from Californian radio stations in the late '70s and early '80s-they rarely imagine it echoing through rehearsal rooms in Hamburg or Linz. Yet even far from the Pacific coastline, the appeal of shimmering chords, laid-back grooves, and polished production found fertile ground.
This compilation gathers rare and overlooked tracks from Germany and Austria. These artists embraced West Coast aesthetics with sincerity and subtle twists, resulting in music that feels both familiar and refreshingly new-smooth sounds for cloudy skies. So drop anchor, pour something cool, and enjoy this unexpected cruise through the lesser-charted waters of Euro Yacht Rock.
Our journey begins in Austria, where Reflection's Because (1981) set the tone with blue-eyed soul and analogue warmth-a sunlit blend of Doobie Brothers polish and local charm. Its creator, Dieter Heyduk, reappears with Austrian Sky, a heartfelt nod to his homeland that fuses mountain calm with oceanic longing.
From the North Sea island of Föhr, Ara Pacis dreamed of California on their 1979 self-release To the Westcoast. Inspired by Steely Dan and Lake, they turned German rock precision into breezy, melodic sophistication. Meanwhile, in Düsseldorf, Mainpoint fused funk and jazz-rock on Frisbee, their 1980 single bursting with rhythmic drive and optimism before the tide of the Neue Deutsche Welle swept such grooves aside.
Bremerhaven's Nuages offered the compilation's only instrumental gem, Strange Weekend (1985)-a gentle blend of jazz-funk and rock and largely lost to time. Its cool restraint captures the European interpretation of Californian ease.
Around the same period, British traveler Gavin James recorded River of Laughter in southern Germany, backed by the blues-rock band Black Cat Bone. His acoustic reflections on water and flow mirrored the soft, meditative pulse at Yacht Rock's core.
Berlin's Top Spin kept things playful with Bikin (1985), a funk-fusion snapshot of urban joy that showcased the city's finest session players. From the Ruhr area, the Jan Pack Band is up next. While not a typical Yacht Rock track, Cable Dance is driven by an effortless, groovy '80s vibe.
Peter Seiler's Goldfinger project reimagined Walkin' in the Sand as a relaxed reggae-tinged track, while Munich's Major Seven closed the voyage with Silverboat, a wistful soft rock ballad gliding between melancholy and light.
Across these hidden harbors of German and Austrian pop, the West Coast dream took on new forms-reflected in rivers, skies, and studio lights half a world away from L.A. Under and Above the Clouds celebrates that spirit: the enduring pull of smooth music, wherever it's made.
Special remarks:
- Co-release with Tramp Records
- First ever German Yacht Rock compilation with a selection of extremely rare tunes
- Fully Licenced
- Thick gatefold sleeve with hype sticker and extended liner notes
- Artwork by Chrisse Kunst
- Pressed on BIO VINYL -> Replacement of petroleum in S-PVC by recycling used cooking oil or industrial waste gases
- Manufactured in Germany
Tracklist:
Side A:
Reflection - Because
Ara Pacis - To The Westcoast
Mainpoint - Frisbee
Nuages - Strange Weekend
Dieter Heyduk - Austrian Sky
Side B:
Gavin James - River of Laughter
Top Spin - Bikin
Jan Pack Band - Cable Dance
Goldfinger - Walkin' In The Sand
Major Seven - Silverboat
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
1
Thought Leadership - XI
2
Thought Leadership - XII
3
Thought Leadership - XIII
4
Thought Leadership - XIV
5
Thought Leadership - XV
6
Thought Leadership - XVI
7
Thought Leadership - XVII
8
Thought Leadership - XVIII
9
Thought Leadership - XIX
10
Thought Leadership - XX
Territories: Worldwide no restrictions
Format Notes: Hyper-limited (300 only!) ethereal ambient-guitar-soul, originally released on cassette only. 2025 first time ever vinyl release, 140g vinyl.
Track List:
A1 XI
A2 XII
A3 XIII
A4 XIV
A5 XV
A6 XVI
A7 XVII
B1 XVIII
B2 XIX
B3 XX
Release Notes:
On a "Balearic-Jazz trip", the phenomenally hyped Thought Leadership returns with another X ideas: the deck this time chooses the Ace of Swords. In the acclaim garnered by III of Pentacles, there were many whispers of “Balearic” from those in the know. As soon as you drop the needle on XI you will be basking in turbo Balearica.
Originally out on cassette only, we present the first ever vinyl issue. It's a hideously limited pressing of 300 for the world, so don't sleep on this.
The sonic palate has been augmented by the addition of synth and bass; there are more guitar layers, more pedals and more organic drums this time – a much fuller production. Still DIY, and still recorded straight to multitrack, just ever so slightly grander in scale; think a rough-hewn, long-lost Claremont 56 cut and you’ll have some idea of how XI opens this future classic LP.
The touchstones so key to the vision of Pentacles (Cocteau Twins, Dif Juz, Durutti Column) are all still present and correct; XII could be a piece from Extractions, XIII is pure Garlands-era Guthrie and, now with the shuffling jazz drums, XV makes TL even more LC – but more disparate influences are found this time out too. ECM guitar legends John Abercrombie and Pat Metheny in the more considered melodic phrasing and harmonic structure of the ideas and a nod to the cosmic Balearic spirit in the overall vibe, means more is offered to the listener across Swords.
XVI and XVII are the biggest indicators to Thought Leaderships’ new found love of The Real Book and their grasp of jazz chords. The former sounds like if Mike Hedges had produced on a heavily sedated ECM date in the early 80s, whilst the latter is Bright Size Life condensed into a most post-punk shard of Strat conversation. The syrupy Phase 90 on the lead parts lends much weight to the guitar melodies, a beautiful tonal counterpoint to the Vox-ish chimes of the plangent chords we’ve all come to love.
The flip again treats us to three extended, improvised jams. XVIII owes as much to Canterbury as it does to Krautrock, another modal voyage through the stars. Light the incense and drift away, guided by delayed cymbals and weaving ribbons of guitar. XIX has almost a New-Wave/Sophisti-Pop energy to it in tone, if not in structure and execution. Something almost Tears for Fears-esque in the chiming chorus guitars. An interesting outlier that has already received a lot of love from those that have heard it. XX is the starkest idea, and the only piece this time with no drums. What we do get, however, is a free exploration over a two chord-vamp. It’s Harvest Time meets Planet Caravan and a fitting end to this Balearic jazz trip.
Be With is honoured to present the first ever vinyl release of Ace Of Swords, carefully remastered by Be With's engineer Simon Francis to ensure it sounds better than ever after its initial tape release. Cicely Balston's expert skills have made sure nothing is lost in the cut at Abbey Road Studios whilst the records have been pressed to the highest possible standard at Record Industry, in Holland. The original tape cover artwork, so crucial to Thought Leadership's striking visual aesthetic, has been rejigged for vinyl issue here at Be With.
The last one flew. You have been warned.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More
Format Notes: Hyper-limited (300 only!) ethereal ambient-guitar-soul, originally released on cassette only. 2025 first time ever vinyl release, 140g vinyl.
Track List:
A1 XI
A2 XII
A3 XIII
A4 XIV
A5 XV
A6 XVI
A7 XVII
B1 XVIII
B2 XIX
B3 XX
Release Notes:
On a "Balearic-Jazz trip", the phenomenally hyped Thought Leadership returns with another X ideas: the deck this time chooses the Ace of Swords. In the acclaim garnered by III of Pentacles, there were many whispers of “Balearic” from those in the know. As soon as you drop the needle on XI you will be basking in turbo Balearica.
Originally out on cassette only, we present the first ever vinyl issue. It's a hideously limited pressing of 300 for the world, so don't sleep on this.
The sonic palate has been augmented by the addition of synth and bass; there are more guitar layers, more pedals and more organic drums this time – a much fuller production. Still DIY, and still recorded straight to multitrack, just ever so slightly grander in scale; think a rough-hewn, long-lost Claremont 56 cut and you’ll have some idea of how XI opens this future classic LP.
The touchstones so key to the vision of Pentacles (Cocteau Twins, Dif Juz, Durutti Column) are all still present and correct; XII could be a piece from Extractions, XIII is pure Garlands-era Guthrie and, now with the shuffling jazz drums, XV makes TL even more LC – but more disparate influences are found this time out too. ECM guitar legends John Abercrombie and Pat Metheny in the more considered melodic phrasing and harmonic structure of the ideas and a nod to the cosmic Balearic spirit in the overall vibe, means more is offered to the listener across Swords.
XVI and XVII are the biggest indicators to Thought Leaderships’ new found love of The Real Book and their grasp of jazz chords. The former sounds like if Mike Hedges had produced on a heavily sedated ECM date in the early 80s, whilst the latter is Bright Size Life condensed into a most post-punk shard of Strat conversation. The syrupy Phase 90 on the lead parts lends much weight to the guitar melodies, a beautiful tonal counterpoint to the Vox-ish chimes of the plangent chords we’ve all come to love.
The flip again treats us to three extended, improvised jams. XVIII owes as much to Canterbury as it does to Krautrock, another modal voyage through the stars. Light the incense and drift away, guided by delayed cymbals and weaving ribbons of guitar. XIX has almost a New-Wave/Sophisti-Pop energy to it in tone, if not in structure and execution. Something almost Tears for Fears-esque in the chiming chorus guitars. An interesting outlier that has already received a lot of love from those that have heard it. XX is the starkest idea, and the only piece this time with no drums. What we do get, however, is a free exploration over a two chord-vamp. It’s Harvest Time meets Planet Caravan and a fitting end to this Balearic jazz trip.
Be With is honoured to present the first ever vinyl release of Ace Of Swords, carefully remastered by Be With's engineer Simon Francis to ensure it sounds better than ever after its initial tape release. Cicely Balston's expert skills have made sure nothing is lost in the cut at Abbey Road Studios whilst the records have been pressed to the highest possible standard at Record Industry, in Holland. The original tape cover artwork, so crucial to Thought Leadership's striking visual aesthetic, has been rejigged for vinyl issue here at Be With.
The last one flew. You have been warned.
Sicherheits- und Herstellerinformationen / safety and manufacturer info (GPSR)
WAS - Word and Sound Medien GmbH
Liebigstrasse 2-20
DE - 22113 Hamburg
Germany
Contact: [email protected]More