Hello and thanks for popping in to read about our February highlights…

Don’t forget all these and many other releases can be read about in depth and ordered on our monthly online “Decoded” magazine at www.code7decoded.com

WITCH MOUNTAIN had their debut album “…Come The Mountain” released to critical acclaim in 2001. The first printing sold out in two months, and then between 1998 and 2002 Witch Mountain became a live staple in the Northwest and on the US national circuit, touring with Weedeater and Spirit Caravan as well as playing show with the likes of Goatsnake, High on Fire, Orange Goblin, Electric Wizard, YOB, EyeHateGod, Clutch, Isis and Agalloch. After that, a period of hibernation was in effect. That is until 2009 when Witch Mountain would re-surface with an addition to the band, the soulful and soaring female vocalist Uta Plotkin. New album “South Of Salem” sees its CD release to help spread awareness for Witch Mountain’s brand of sludgy, Sabbath-like, dirgy, bluesy, soulful doom even further through the mighty Profound Lore Records. A modern Doom Metal Classic and the first sure fire entry for those ‘Best Of 2012’ lists.

Even though they’ve only been around a couple of years, PALLBEARER (hailing from Little Rock Arkansas) have already generated a huge buzz within the doom metal scene in their short existence, all this was initially achieved via their three-song 2010 demo which made a big impact within the doom metal scene, the limited 300 unit run on cassette sold out almost instantly. By encompassing the more traditional metal style of their brand of doom, Pallbearer’s sound takes its’ cues from such legendary doom metal bands as Candlemass, Trouble, and Warning along with a ‘70s prog influence Through powerful melodies, epic and somber passages of gloom, and with the stand out soaring vocals from vocalist Brett Campbell (who sounds like a young Ozzy in his prime), Pallbearer’s debut album “Sorrow And Extinction” (Profound Lore) immediately throws the four-piece right into the doom metal spotlight as one of America’s mightiest Metal exports in years.

“Bury The Light” (Cruz Del Sur) is the long-awaited fourth studio album for the highly regarded US metal band PHARAOH. The band now feature Tim Aymar of Control Denied fame on vocals and also have Dawnbringer / High Spirits / Superchrist mastermind Chris Maycock on drums. One listen to the excellent US power Metal on display will be sufficient to explain how they also got guest solos from scene legends like Mike Wead (King Diamond) and Jim Dofka (Dofka) onto their album.

XASTHUR’s ”Portal Of Sorrow” was one of our best selling Metal releases last year and now it is available in a strictly limited edition box set (just 500 copies worldwide). The box is a blackened handmade edition that is hand numbered and has a thick and heavy inlay. The Portal Of Sorrow CD has an alternate label layout and is accompanied by an exclusive 7” with the tracks of the Orosius split CD released many ages ago. Preorder your copy now or you will miss out!

KIM JUNG MI ‘s critically acclaimed “Now” (Lion Productions) is the companion release to the recent much-heralded Light in the Attic label compilation, Shin Joong Hyun “Beautiful Rivers and Mountains”
Our version of this quintessence of psychedelia features Korean/English lyric translations, rare photos, re-mastered audio, and comprehensive liner notes by Kevin “Sipreano” Howes and Shin Joong Hyun expert Jae-Myeong Ro. To complement the well received CD we now have a 180 gram vinyl version of “Now” which comes in a deluxe old-style jacket, with OBI, and has a full color insert with
liner notes and rare photos, and great stories about Shin Joong Hyun and Kim Jung Mi’s continuing place of prominence in the Korean music scene.

HEAVEN AND EARTH‘s “Refuge” was a long time coming, in no small part because the good folks at Lion Productions wanted it to be perfect. The CD re-release of this psychedelic folk/funk beauty from 1973, featuring the gorgeous voices of Pat Gefell and Jo D. Andrews (and produced by Space Age percussionist/composer Dick Schory for his short-lived but influential Ovation Records imprint) was so well received that there is now a limited Vinyl LP edition of 750 copies, packaged in a deluxe 1960’s style tip-on gatefold jacket, with an insert. Preorder your copy now or they will be gone forever!

COFFINS are a Japanese heavy doom/death metal band, formed in 1996 by guitarist and vocalist Uchino.
Their latest CD release, "The Other Side Of Blasphemy," was released on 20 Buck Spin and Southern Lord in the United States. Their sound is influenced by old school '80's and '90's doom metal, death metal, thrash metal, and hardcore, yet they remain heavy and oppressive, keeping them in the doom genre, despite having occasional outbursts of speed. Having just signed to Relapse and Osmose they now release their “Sewage Sludgecore Treatment” (Bones Brigade) album featuring cover songs of the band’s inspirations like Eyehategod, Iron Monkey and Buzzoven.

If Hendrix had lived, he probably would have ended up recording BLACK PUSSY’s “On Blonde” (Burnside) in 1971 as kerosene soaked hard rock warning against the commercial, pretentious pop overkill to come. Black Pussy is the sound of a dirty, immense engine coming down a two-lane blacktop; a trip fueled by the roar of a 1967-purchased bong in the back of a 1972 Nova. For fans of say Monster Magnet, Fireball Ministry, Cream or the mighty Sabbath going on a long, lovely, midnight desert ride, it will make a stunning companion, jaw- grindingly full of dangerous ideas snug in cigarette-burned red leather car seats...

Former Screaming Trees and Tuatara drummer Barrett Martin returns with a new solo album from his heavy jazz ensemble, THE BARRET MARTIN GROUP. “Atlas” is the band's 4th album to date, and this time around the sessions were produced by longtime friend and producer Jack Endino (Nirvana, Soundgarden, Screaming Trees). The 13 songs on Atlas are built around Barrett's exotic drum and percussion grooves, which nod to musical influences from around the globe. The album soars with majestic trumpet melodies and elegant piano harmonies, supported by tightly wound bass and guitar and shimmering vibraphone, making Atlas a gorgeous global journey from one of Seattle's fiercest jazz ensembles.

“Speak!” (Burnside) is the new album from JEREMY DUBS, released by The Bureau (a record label established by Frank Black of the Pixies) is here. Packed with ten classic covers, seven from the legendary Grammy Award winning songwriter Harry Nilsson, Speak! features twelve tracks in total, also including classic cover cuts by Randy Newman, Yoko Ono and Gordon Jenkins.

“INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT VOLUME V1” (Burnside) is the sixth in a series of “live” recordings from International Guitar Night’s annual North American tours. The recording features Brian Gore; the melodic fingerstyle guitarist, author, and impresario from San Francisco. Lulo Reinhardt; a spontaneous and passionate musician who explores flamenco roots and flamenco jazz. UK legend Adrian Legg who has more than lived up to the expectations stirred by an ongoing avalanche of praise from critics, fans, top guitar mags and peers alike and Brazilian native Marco Pereira with both his Jazz and Brazilian guitar styles.

LITTLE FREDDIE KING’s life has always been hard. Hell, not long ago he was blown out of New Orleans by Katrina and he went missing for a time. When he finally settled back into town, Freddie was forced to move out of his new apartment by toxic Chinese dry wall that was wrecking the place. It’s always been this tough and it always will be. His new and greatest album “Chasing Tha Blues” (Burnside) takes you on a rough ride through Freddie’s life. You get to meet Crackhoe Flo and hang out at the Bucket of Blood. It’s all here, including what is the toughest, grittiest blues anthem you’ve ever heard – Born Dead.

After releasing their debut EP in 2011, WIZARD’S BEARD got straight to work on album number two and set off on a European tour in September 2011. The resultant recording “Four Tired Undertakers” (Altsphere) is darker & meaner than what has come before. Keeping the relentless ethos of the previous recording, it builds on this and delves into new depths of misery. As such it comes highly recommended for fans of Eyehategod, Iron Monkey and Grief.

ANABAISIS is a progressive rock collaboration project, conceived by multi-instrumentalist and composer, Barry Thompson, with lyrics by noted professional author, George Andrade. New album “Back Form Being Gone” (Burnside) has a lineup that is a “who's who" of some of the world's top tier players in the progressive rock and progressive metal universe. In addition to Barry on guitar, bass and keyboards, The Anabasis features internationally renowned virtuoso musician Ryo Okumoto (Spock's Beard) as primary keyboardist and arranger. The band is further rounded out by Per Fredrik "PelleK" Åsly (Damnation Angels) on lead vocals, Gerald "Mully" Mulligan (The Lee Abraham Band) on drums, Gordon Tittsworth (Images of Eden, All Too Human) on lead and backing vocals, Lee Abraham (Lee Abraham Band) on bass, Stefan Artwin (Relocator) and Brick Williams (Hourglass) on lead guitar.

THE THINGZ are a great Californian Garage Punk trio whose sound is in the exact cross section of LA legends The Muffs and veteran snot Punks the Angry Samoans. If this was the early Nineties both their self titled and “Of Things To Come” albums would have found a welcome home at legendary labels like Sympathy or Estrus – however both are to be found on the great Coffee Addict imprint.

Also living in the Garage are Rudi Protrudi’s legendary FUZZTONES who have the new reprint of the classic “In Heat” (Go Down) released this month. This is the original mix the band wanted without the pesky major label remix that was forcibly released twenty years ago – Hear how the band wanted you to hear it back in 1989 – On vinyl only of course!

MONSTER RAVING IN THE LONG BLACK COFFIN (Western Star) is a fantastic Rockabilly / Rock and Roll tribute to the much missed eccentric UK entertainer and loony party politician Screaming Lord Sutch. Contemporary outfits from the R&R scene like The Bad Detectives, The Sharks, The Epileptic Hillbillies and Frenzy are all included…

The Reissue Department keeps uncovering those classics…

SPIRIT OF SIREENA VOLUME 6 is the perfect budget priced way to delve into the German label ‘Sireena’ and their excellent back catalogue which spans some classic Kraut Rock, Prog Rock and even a smattering of obscure Punk/New Wave titles. It’s limited so get it whilst you can!

EXKURSIONS were a high-octane Chicago power rock trio of Mike Johnson, Fyl Jonnzen and Leon Wilson, on their long out of print, but now reissued, self titled debut album they absolutely blitz through eight tunes of heavy blues-influenced material in the vein of Hendrix and Cream. The Brutal Planet label has unearthed a gem here; a must for fans of Hendrix, Cream and early 70’s Chicago classic psych rock

And if those compilations appeal to you then don’t forget to pick up an issue of the Psych/Garage bible SHINDIG. New Issue Number 25 features THE BEE GEES, JASON FALKNER, JERRY YESTER, MIGHTY BABY and KALEIDOSCOPE amongst many others. A fine read as always!

And finally…why not support some genuine UK Talent?

Anyone who has witnessed Portsmouth act ATTACK! VIPERS! live knows that their second album “Deadweight Revival“ (Specialist Subject) will not be an easy listening affair, but will feature tight Metallic Punk/Hardcore in a Suicide File, Converge, Hope Conspiracy kind of vein. As my neighbours will testify it delivers all that and then plenty more besides. An outstanding underground release!

The second album by Yorkshire's ABOVE THEM "Are we a danger to ourselves?" (Specialist Subject) succeeds completely at its goal. Like the sharpest punk rock music, "Are we a danger to ourselves?" gets you to keep coming back for more, but unlike so much Punk music today; it rewards you for doing so. No hype or BS just driving Punk Rock in the vein of Hot Water Music and Cheap Girls. Good stuff!

“The Devil Rhythm” is the first album from Northern Ireland’s heavy rockers, TRUCKER DIABLO. Originally self-released in 2010, The Devil Rhythm is being re-released by Ripple Music and now features three bonus tracks. On it you can hear why the band recently wowed festival audiences at Download and got their mate Ricky Warwick (Thin Lizzy/Almighty) to make a guest appearance on the record – a must for Fans of Black Label Society, Thin Lizzy, Clutch, AC/DC and Black Sabbath

STUKA SQUADRON is a classic UK Heavy Metal band given to portraying vampire World War II pilots. Their album “Tales Of The Ost“ ( Metalbox) has been very well received by the Rock Press with frequent comparisons made to Iron Maiden, Saxon, Judas Priest, Iced Earth, Orange Goblin, Alice Cooper and Marilyn Manson. A band to watch out for in the future for sure…

As are THE MARIANA HOLLOW a London-based female fronted band whose captivating sound fuses elements of Alt Rock, Metal, Prog and Goth. On 13th February 2012, their sophomore album 'Velvet Black Sky' (Trieste) is released following the lead single 'Your Halo’‘s iTunes success. Both the download and album are well worth your support.

A POETIC YESTERDAY (also known by the moniker APY), have won a fanatical fan base all over the UK with more than 500 live shows and headline appearances at venues such as the Birmingham O2 Academy, the Manchester O2 Academy and The Cockpit in Leeds. Now with their new album “Revolutions” (Banter) the band are set to gain the national recognition they deserve as one of the UK’s best Pop-Punk bands of recent years. Drawing on influences from punk, grunge and good old fashioned rock, the band were recently described by one review as “If Nirvana and Four Year Strong had babies, A Poetic Yesterday would be the result’…

Thanks for reading this far…See y’all next month to peruse Code 7’s mighty fine March releases…
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CODE 7 – WEBSITE INTRO – JANUARY 2012

Happy New Year and welcome to our January release update…

Please remember that these and all other releases can be read about in more depth on our monthly online “Decoded” magazine at www.code7decoded.com

If you are looking to beat the back to work blues with a great compilation for playing at work or in the car then you could do allot worse than the “DEEP ROOTS OF THE RAMONES” (Sireena) which showcases the legendary NY band’s roots a in genres like Rockabilly, Rock'n'Roll and Proto-Punk. It compiles a representative selection of songs that stand out as typical examples for the different styles and sounds that influenced the iconic punk rock band. Enjoy the various tunes by MC5, JACK SCOTT, SKY SAXON, LINK WRAY, NEW YORK DOLLS, IGGY & THE STOOGES, FLAMIN ' GROOVIES, CARL PERKINS, GENE VINCENT, THE TEEN KINGS feat. ROY ORBISON, THE TROGGS and others. It’s the best mix tape you have never heard!

On initial release ANATHEMA wanted “Eternity” to be seen as their ‘White Album’. They wanted the cover artwork to pay homage to the Beatles classic, but Music for Nations considered the concept uncommercial. So the album cover ended up sporting an image of an angel lost in cheesy CGI space. Many years later the new Svart vinyl reissue has the music spread over two albums for maximum fidelity (the original was a single album) - and, for the first time ever, the artwork as the band originally wanted it to look. Available on ultra ltd black heavyweight vinyl, the album also features new liner notes by Mr Patterson of Anathema. This is the album that features the legendary Roy Harper too fact fans…

Faithfully following in the footsteps of Saint Vitus, Trouble, Witchfinder General, Pentagram and The Obsessed, Finland’s LORD VICAR boast an impeccable doom pedigree with Kimi “Peter Vicar” Kärki (Orne, ex-Reverend Bizarre) on guitar and Christian “Chritus” Lindersson (ex-Saint Vitus, ex-Count Raven and Terra Firma) on vocals. The band plays the most arcane form of metal the way it was meant to be: full of intensity, savagery, heaviness and force, underpinned by titanic riffs and vintage hyperborean grooves. Lord Vicar is one of Europe’s leading traditional doom bands and their sophomore album, “Signs of Osiris” (Church Within) is way more ambitious than the first full-length, Fear No Pain, both in terms of musical diversity and the overarching lyrical themes.

Sonically compared to notable acts like Black Sabbath, Clutch, Kyuss, and Down - the music of KING GIANT is dark, heavy, and abrasive, yet full of hooks; a perfect blend of pathos and power. It will make an instant connection with any fan of extreme/heavy music. “Dismal Hollow” (The Path Less Travelled) , the band's second full length release, delivers dark tales of Americana wrapped in thick heavy grooves combined with atmosphere and melody. Available on both cd and as a lush 180-gram coloured vinyl with a gatefold sleeve

MY BROTHER THE WIND return with their second album "I Wash My Soul in the Stream of Infinity" (Transubstans) and it is a triumph in majestic, psychedelic space rock. With the focus less on guitar solos and more on group virtuosity, channeling the true spirit and sound of the free and innovative 70's. The album is already being hailed by leading Prog/Psychedelic rock sites as one of the most important releases of the New Year.

Swedish underground legends NOCTUM released their debut album on a small DIY US label in 2010. During that era the band built up a strong reputation in Europe, but a European release was always missing…until now…as Transubstans have picked up the band and will now release this CD edition including both the "The Seance" and "The Fiddler" on one release. Swedish deluxe occult metal drenched in blood ripping stories about witchery, blood and black masses. Highly recommended for fans of Witchcraft, Black Sabbath and Angel Witch.

Ambient/ Drone fans will be excited to learn that KARJALAN SISSIT have both their 2001 debut album "Karjalan Sissit" CD (Cyclic Law) and 2002 album “Miserere” (Cyclic Law) reissued early this year. These lost classics are limited to editions of just 500 copies in A5 Gatefold Sleeve’s and are selling out fast.

From the Metz/Strasbourg area of France, FUNK POLICE merge some typical no-wave blind fury with some smoky dark funk grooves. Like The Slits, Pop Group or Public Image Ltd in their prime, Funk Police steal black rhythms from a hypothetical rainforest and hurl them into their own concrete jungle, while James Brown and James Chance stand there nodding. Throbbing bass, sharp upbeat guitars and schizoid vocals over haunting tribal drums. Only 350 copies of “Hot We Are Funk We Play” have been pressed on limited vinyl LP’s so act fast!

YOG’s new album “Half The Sky” (Division) is proudly going to make a lot of ears bleed to death. This is nothing less than a war machine fueled by psychotic math-grind and virulent hardcore punk…this future classic would stand its own ground on a much more renowned label such as Relapse or even Amphetamine Reptile in their early Nineties heyday.

PANOPTICON is the brainchild of one Austin Lundr, and have garnered considerable attention and critical acclaim for the project’s raw, atmospheric blend of black metal, crust, post-rock, and Appalachian folk. Aquarius Records have lauded them as “crusty weirdo mathy abstruse black metal, a buzzing blasting pounding onslaught of Pagan fury, rife with samples and all manner of strange sonic filigree,” and their description isn’t far off. New album “Social Disservices” (Flenser) continues the blackened crust of previous efforts; think black noise with a dose of shoegazing. For fans of Darkthrone, Amebix, Godspeed You Black Emperor and Mayhem.

FOUR BURIALS (Flenser) is a lost classic of extreme doom, and has now finally, reverently been brought back into circulation by the mighty Flenser label. Featuring monolithic emissions from Mournful Congregation, Loss, Orthodox, and Otesanek, this four track album reeks of desolation, the gnashing of teeth and virulent decay. “Heavy” does not begin to do these songs justice; the riffs stumble and crawl through an acid bath of feedback and distortion, dragging themselves along on broken knees. Whilst this is already a legendarily hard to find record it is no museum piece as Mournful Congregation have recently released a much-hailed compilation album via 20 Buck Spin and Nashville’s Loss also released the critically-acclaimed “Despond “ for Profound Lore in 2010.

And please remember to support some real UK talent this year…

The female singer with Happy Mondays for 10 years, the legendary Rowetta is back. Teaming up with THE KINO CLUB ‘So Sweet’ (King Prawn) is an uplifting house track with a definite old school feel good flavor. Rowetta has recently been appearing at selected dates with Peter Hook (Joy Division/ New Order) as part of his Unknown Pleasures/Closer tours and features on the low slung bass mans’ new E.P. released in May.

Sheffield based REVERBED are bright, fresh and newly painted. They represent the Post - Blink generation and mix it with a splendid overlay of Foo Fighter-esque rock and Boy/ Girl vocals. One listen to their debut “Lies You Can Believe“(Native) and you can immediately suss why people are already comparing them to the legendary Pixies.

Sheffield’s THE TALK continues the cities indie rock tradition. Their excellent debut album “Have You Heard?” (Native) was recorded in the famous yellow arch studio where Richard Hawley and Arctic Monkeys have worked in the past…

“Cross Your Heart” (Solarflare) the debut album from UK based act DAYLIGHT ROBBERY has received great reviews in Classic Rock, Melodic Rock and Planet AOR. There music has 80’s rock music sensibilities with a modern edge….The powerful vocals, soaring guitars and great harmonies bring to mind the giant US rock acts of yesteryear but with added UK grit.

RED STAR hail from West Yorkshire and are arguably the most dynamic and energetic live act coming out of the north of England today. Thunderous drums, funked up synth sounds, genius "lead" bass and razor sharp screaming guitars all lay the foundations for Bloy's dark, suggestive and controversial lyrics. “Revelator” (King Prawn) marks them down as a band to be watched.

Thanks for reading down this far…See you all next month…Code 7

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Christmas is upon us once again, a time to relax and enjoy your regular monthly round up of our December highlights, please remember these and many other releases, can be read about in depth, via our online Code 7 magazine “Decoded” at www.code7decoded.com

Building on the success of their critically acclaimed, 2010 release "Bananas Foster", THE JIGSAW SEEN return with their new album “Winterland” (Burnside), a winter-themed song cycle showcasing the group’s conceptual take on the season. The tone is set for Winterland on the opening track ‘What About Christmas?’ with pounding drums, fuzz bass, mellotron and a lyric cautiously anticipating the heightened emotions of the coming season. The icy mellotron continues through the atmospheric piece that is ‘December’ and the Massachusetts-via-Berlin groove of ‘Snow Angels Of Pigtown’, a heavily reverb-soaked baritone guitar abruptly takes the proceedings into Woman Loves The Season, a song that recalls the chill-inducing ballads of Gene Clark. The twelve-string cracker ‘Candy Cane’ closes out the side with a wicked dash through a yuletide dystopia. Side two picks up with ‘Circle Of Steel’, a 1974 Gordon Lightfoot song, featuring Dave Davies of The Kinks . ‘Christmas Behind Me’ sees the album’s narrator leaving the cold weather behind and taking off for a new start with some resignation. ‘First Day Of The New Year’ attempts to resolve an uncertain future, as a somber organ weaves its way through a stately piano-driven arrangement. The listener is finally offered a release from the frigid setting with the soaring, optimistic ‘Dreams Of Spring’, a song that introduces a first for The Jigsaw Seen: a female choir at the outro to bring the penultimate track home. The album closes with ‘Winterland’s Gone’, one of the most beautiful songs The Jigsaw Seen have recorded, showcasing a delicate mix of acoustic guitars, flute and bass clarinet.

With their Thrill Jockey album “HP-1” topping many people’s end of year polls it is fitting that 2011 draws to a close with a limited live album from WHITE HILLS. Limited to just one pressing of 2000 copies “Live At Roadburn 2011” (Roadburn) captures the band on stage where they are an are an ever changing entity always striving to push the envelope. Their music weaves in and out of anthemic chants, deep space bleeps and other worldly madness for a mix that proves to be intoxicating. since the release of the band's debut album, listeners have been praising their originality and unique brand of heavy space rock.

UNCLE ACID AND THE DEADBEATS are already something of an urban myth c/o the limited vinyl pressing of their “Blood Lust” album on Rise Above which is now fetching £500 on E-Bay. With the vinyl now long deleted we are proud to present the CD version of “Blood Lust” (Svart) which is the only format now generally available. Musically this Cambridgeshire act use g old fuzz pedals and broken amps to create a unique lo fi saturated psychedelic doom sound, excellent stuff…

Canada’s most notorious and most alien extreme musical act WOLD (who has somewhat recently been admired by confessed fans such as Bjork and Matthew Barney) have returned with their most aesthetically powerful release to date. Entitled “Freermasonry” (Profound Lore), the new album from the weird, bizarre, and mysterious enigma that hail from the vast desolate prairies of the Canadian wasteland is the bands most aesthetically powerful to date. Like a raging powerful blizzard that envelopes nothing but darkness and death, the harsh sounds of psychotic hypnosis emanating from “Freermasonry” are almost akin to a haunting alien presence that’s slowly waiting to reveal its true nature upon the feeble mortal coil. Always polarizing, yet always intriguing, “Freermasonry” highly recommended to fans of original thought provoking Black Metal.

JF “+46 17' 36.30", -124 4' 20.13" (Anthem) is the first solo project from JOHN HAUGHM of Agalloch. Lush melodic and beautifully improvised guitar experiments that are sonically and spiritually aligned with originators of ambience such as Manuel Gottsching, Tangerine Dream, or Popol Vuh, and contemporary practitioners such as Burning Star Core, Oneohtrix Point Never, or Emeralds. Be quick this is a single sided, hand stamped and numbered white vinyl 7", limited to 500 copies worldwide.

Ex- Moldy Peaches singer/songwriter KIMYA DAWSON is most widely known for the Grammy nominated, Platinum selling soundtrack for the movie “Juno”. Kimya's new solo album ‘Thunder Thighs’
features guest performances by rapper/producer Aesop Rock plus members of the Strokes, Mountain Goats, and more. Following the success of the CD version ‘Thunder Thighs’ is being self-released on Kimya's own Great Crap Factory label, The double Vinyl LP is limited to 500 worldwide...be quick or miss out!

"The Roots of Dubstep" (Ariwa) is a new album from the legendary MAD PROFESSOR, using old technology, with 4 old songs, using new technology. Contrary to some uninformed journalists there is nothing new about Dubstep. 40 years ago, King Tubbys was experimenting with the then audio technology (1/2 inch ampex machines), and customized MCI desks, tape echoes and spring reverbs.
This led to a new era of music...DUB!! And for the first time, the creator was from behind the desk. Amongst the first generation of this musical form was, Lee Perry, Errol Thompson, and King Jammys. They inspired the next generation like Scientist and Mad Professor...who judging from this excellent album can still teach the newcomers a thing or two!

NICK MOSS follows his most critically and commercially successful album to date "Privileged" with the release of "Here I Am" (Burnside), a record already drawing raves from peers and mentors like renowned bluesman Jimmy Thackery, who has praised this new set for "pushing the evolution of his music" with tunes that are "genuine and intense." Moss has given guitar lovers plenty to sink their teeth into with extended songs and solos, but there's more to Nick than just great lead playing. Moss and his band again use a foundation of blues, rock, and roots as starting point, but take new and unexpected turns on these tracks. These 10 new originals combine to create the most diverse album of his career as he pushes his sound, songwriting, and lead guitar work further than ever before.

Following the release and international success of JAMES McCARTNEY's debut digital-only EPs, ‘Available Light’ and ‘Close At Hand’, introduced a talented singer-songwriter and his music to the world. Now, James McCartney embarks on the next phase of that introduction with his first-ever physical release: "The Complete EP Collection" (Burnside). The collection was produced by David Kahne and James' father Paul McCartney in London and New York. James plays many of the instruments himself, including guitar, bass, piano and mandolin This special two-disc set includes both of his debut EPs in their entirety, along with an additional EP's worth of never before released bonus tracks. All told, the set features fourteen McCartney originals, plus a deeply felt cover of Neil Young's "Old Man," and a rousing version of Carl Perkins' "Your True Love."
The reissue department keeps unearthing those hidden gems…
At the dawn of the 1970’s, South Korea’s rock music scene was at its zenith. Much of the reason for this was the god-like musical touch of guitar wizard, songwriter, producer, and arranger Shin Joong Hyun. For this album, he took a young girl named KIM JUNG MI and transformed her from a wallflower student into a folk-psych chanteuse in record time (think the Francoise Hardy of Korea). The ten songs on “Now” (Lion) were written and recorded during 1973 with a firm mandate to create a truly psychedelic sound experience. Mr. Shin’s fuzz guitar weaves in and out of the tracks, interlaced with his own poetic musings, combined with Kim Jung Mi’s seductive, expressive vocals and empathetic
string orchestration, resulted in an album that is nothing short of awe-inspiring and without a doubt, one of the best psychedelic albums ever created. The deluxe mini-LP sleeve CD version has a 20-page booklet with rare photos, Korean/English lyric translations, rare photos, re-mastered audio, and comprehensive liner notes featuring great stories about Shin Joong Hyun and Kim Jung Mi’s continuing place of prominence in the Korean music scene.

SANDSTONE's "Can You Mend A Silver Thread" (Lion) is a reissue of the legendary 1971 private press folk/psych album (1971) widely regarded as a classic of the genre. The instrumentation and compositional style are reminiscent of heavy English folk hitters like Mellow Candle, Pentangle, and Heron. Despite its undoubted quality sadly, the band only had cash enough for around 300 copies. Other than a few college radio spins for “Flute Player”, barely anyone heard "Can You Mend A Silver Thread?" outside of their inner circle. A monumental accomplishment nonetheless; from the cover to the instrumentation to the deeply strange and lovely lyrics, maybe the truest folk/psych
music that these shores ever produced. The Lion Productions edition includes two bonus tracks, out-takes from the album sessions and a full booklet containing the band’s story and lyrics

HEAVEN AND EARTH "Refuge" (Lion) is a psychedelic folk/funk beauty from 1973, featuring the gorgeous voices of Pat Gefell and Jo D. Andrews (and produced by Space Age percussionist/composer Dick Schory for his short-lived but influential Ovation Records imprint). At one time this was an album completely unknown outside of Chicago, where the label was based; but these days, word gets around, and tracks like 'Feel The Spirit' and 'Jenny' have been making the rounds on the DJ circuit. No matter what your musical taste is—psych-folk, funk, soft rock—this LP seems to have something special to offer. This is due in part to notable backing from veterans like bassist Phil Upchurch (Curtis Mayfield, Otis Rush, Stan Getz, Groove Holmes, and Cannonball Adderly), and space age pop maven Bobby Christian on drums and percussion. But primarily, the perfection that this album emanates is due to the clear voices and intelligent songs crafted by Gefell and Andrews. Our Lion Productions deluxe gatefold mini-LP sleeve CD version has two booklets—one packed with rare photos from the Ovation Records archives; the other with musings by both members of the group on their time spent as Heaven & Earth. Better yet, the CD version has fifteen bonus tracks, including both sides of the duo’s two singles, as well as alternate takes and some never before released songs plucked from the vaults. NB - the CD version is limited to 1,000 copies. Order now!

Here comes the hippie epic "The Inca Cosma Fudge" by THE ELECTRIC FAMILY (Sireena) on a limited 7" single. The CD version is long out of print - however as it was originally planned for a vinyl single this track now appears on Sireena Records on both sides of a 7” vinyl. Musicians from the electric hippie family group around Tom Redecker came together in the studio of guitarist Jochen Schoberth in the Bavarian forest to played and record this trancy number. An eight-minute musical road movie, which won’t get out of the head - Stick it on at 33 1/3 as the band meant it to be heard – The record player will love it!

GROBSCHNITT and TARAS BULBA know each other well. Taras Bulba keyboardist Volker MIST Kahrs was with Grobschnitt until 1980 and responsible for many musical treasures of the progrockers. 1990, together with Tom THE PERC Redecker he formed the project Taras Bulba. The title "The Cruel White" comes from the second long out of print album "Peyote Moon ". Unfortunately, Volker Kahrs died in 2008. Now some of the original members and their sons have joined forces again for this limited edition 7" of 500 copies.
If the above look interesting then you may like to peruse a copy of the latest SHINDIG magazine. Their last quarterly of the year arrives in a stunning Mott The Hoople cover which houses an excellent Mott feature by Kris Needs and articles/interviews with The New York Dolls, Twilights, Alan Bown Set and The Association amongst others.
Formed in 2005 BLACK RAINBOWS are a heavy psych, stoner, rock n’roll power trio. Their sound is a mix of 70’s like MC5, Blue Cheer, Hawkwind, Black Sabbath and hard psych‐stoner from 90’s as Kyuss, Monster Magnet, Fu-Manchu, Qotsa and Nebula. Building on their fierce some live reputations, they are out now with their third full length: Supermothafuzzalicious (Subsound) and it's one of the greatest Heavy Psych albums Europe has produced - fact!
German Punks REJECTED YOUTH are back with their fourth LP “Fuck The Consent“(Concrete Jungle). Founded in 1998 RY have become one of the most established punk institutions in mainland Europe. After 3 LPs, one Live DVD, several singles and one mini album the four guys proved at numerous = festivals, tours and shows through Europe and the US that political punk rock is more important than ever. Although they stick to their musical genre and roots they remain open minded regarding new influences and styles. Their new album is partly a bit more rocking but also contains this typical melodic street punk, ‘77 punk and some piano parts. Hymn-like, political punk rock in the vein of early Rancid, Transplants, Leftover Crack and The Unseen.

"Panic" (Deranged) is the second 7" from Sweden’s NEGATIVE LIFESTYLE that offers more of the same sloppy 80’s hardcore punk by way of Europe. The band returns with 7 new tracks that include a few melodic gems that really sets this record apart. No bullshit, no reverb, no trend-hop – just a three piece
trying to play pop songs using 80’s hardcore as its medium.

The self titled debut record from San Francisco’s NEO CONS (featuring members of 86 Mentality) features six songs of piss and vinegar hardcore punk with heavy KBD sensibilities. You can hear hints of everyone from The Zero Boys to early New Bomb Turks on this fantastic slab of wax.

TERRIBLE FEELINGS have the North American pressing of their superb "Impending Doom" 7” (Deranged) out this month. Black angst-ridden power pop or Doomsday pop with punk rock roots? You decide. Place their sound somewhere in the wastelands between Wipers, Masshysteri and Murder City Devils.

"And Now This" (Deranged) is the debut full length from Canada’s NO PROBLEM and is an absolute hardcore punk scorcher. Following two great 7”s , this album showcases a band at ease with a sound that blends hardcore and punk with plenty of big riffs and melodies, not unlike Fucked Up’s pre Matador days; this is essentially a hardcore record with melodic punk sensibilities similar to the Adolescents and Observers. Was recorded by Jonah Falco from Fucked Up too!
Straight out of Doncaster and fresh from tearing up stages across the UK with the mighty Dwarves GIRL SPIT are now ready to unleash their debut album "Have I Done Enough To Go Home Yet?"(Native) on to the world - Their Loud and offensive attitude laced Punk / Rock hybrid has gained very favorable comparisons with everyone from Queens of the Stone Age to The Ramones and even The Gallows. A new British band well worth checking out…

And as it’s the Christmas party season let’s finish up with some classic Disco/Funk ! In 1976 the studio musicians Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards got together and founded CHIC. Twenty years later in 1996, the band filmed a full concert at the legendary Budokan in Tokyo for a DVD release, which until now has had no physical music release. Unfortunately the concert at the Budokan, was the last one of Bernard Edwards, Nile Rodgers’ long-time companion who died of cancer shortly after the shows. As usual on Sireena "Le Freak Live" appears on 180 gram heavy vinyl - in elaborately designed gatefold and features all the hits (“Dance, Dance, Dance", "Good Times", "Le Freak") that took the disco phenomenon out of the New York clubs and helped turn it into an international phenomenon.

Thanks for reading this far, see you next year….
Happy Xmas and New Year from all @ Code 7.

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Thanks for popping by to read about our November highlights, please remember these and many other releases, can be read about in depth, Via our online Code 7 magazine “Decoded” at www.code7decoded.com

In the waning months of the 20th century, legendary Seattle band SCREAMING TREES went back into the studio one last time. Having been released from their major label and realizing that the outlook was grim, the Trees entered Stone
Gossard's Studio Litho to preserve the last batch of songs the band had written. Financed by the band and produced by drummer Barrett Martin, these sessions proved to be their last. Twelve years later, in the winter of 2011, Martin and long-time friend and producer Jack Endino found the two-inch multi-track reels, carefully baked and cleaned the tapes, transferred them to a digital format, and brought those final 10 songs back to life. To their pleasant surprise, the music had a raw, energetic quality, with the band cracking jokes and howling with laughter between takes - they were clearly having a good time. These final sessions captured on "Last Words The Final Recordings" are a remarkable last testament to the band's impressive 15-year career and cement Mark Lanegan and co's place as one of the American North West's greatest ever groups.

Ex- Moldy Peaches singer/songwriter KIMYA DAWSON is most widely known for the Grammy nominated, Platinum selling soundtrack for the movie "Juno". Kimya's forthcoming solo album "Thunder Thighs" (Burnside) has her trademark quirky major and minor themes including oceans, cancer, transgendered heroes, feeling safe in your own skin, saving public libraries and making big albums in a small, familial way. The album features guest performances by rapper/producer Aesop Rock plus members of the Strokes, Mountain Goats, and more. Highly recommended.

One of the most notorious and now controversial black metal entities to ever set foot upon the genre over the last ten or so years, LEVIATHAN (and its sole commander Wrest, aka famed tattoo artist Jef Whitehead) has long been seen as one of the genre’s most creative and prolific artists. Bay Area based Leviathan gained recognition their “Ten Sublevels Of Suicide” debut. Said album was praised as one of the most “transcendental” black metal albums ever recorded for its time and from there Leviathan became known as one of the most in-demand artists within the black metal scene today. Now several years later, Wrest has unleashed new album “True Traitor, True Whore” (Profound Lore), the album is a vicious, surreal, bizarre opus, and probably their most progged-out album to date. Highly recommended to fans of Burzum, Deathspell Omega, Joy Division and early Cure.

Ten years into a career that has included collaborations with challenging artists including Penny Rimbaud and Dan Graham, New York City based art / punk duo JAPANTHER have taken a left turn and teamed up with various L.A. friends and favourite producer Michael Blum (Madonna/Michael Jackson) to create their punky surf /beach master piece "Beets Limes And Rice" (Seayou). Unexpectedly for an East Coast act the LP has elements of the California sun all over it and the result is quite possibly Japanther's best work to date...

On their stunning split album CONAN VS SLOMATICS (Burning World) it is hard to pick one band as a winner over the other, as both these UK bands have the Sludge/Doom sound of today down to a tee, so the real winner is anyone who seeks out and hears these six stunning tracks. Both Conan and The Slomatics are trios of planetary heaviness who have come together to demonstrate the strength and potency of the UK doom scene. Damn right this is recommended!

It’s a great month for Metal Vinyl lovers…

MY DYING BRIDE "34.788% Complete" (Svart) the band's most adventurous and experimental album of their illustrious career is finally available on vinyl again. The Svart edition is housed in a heavy luxurious gatefold sleeve with all lyrics and the original band-approved artwork.

KATATONIA have a deluxe double vinyl version of their third album "Discouraged Ones" (Svart). The original vinyl version from 1998 had the entire album stuffed on a single LP but the new Svart version has the album split over three LP sides and also features the songs from the rare 'Saw You Drown' EP. On lovely limited transparent orange vinyl too!

Doom overlords PENTAGRAM have their classic “Show Em How” (Svart) album reissued as a beautiful deluxe edition this month and also have an ultra limited – Just 700 copies worldwide – live album entitled “Live Rites” (Svart) This one is available on transparent grey vinyl only and is wrapped in a thick gatefold jacket with a big 16-page booklet glued inside. The LP also includes exclusive live photos, liner notes and a copy of the gig poster too. No represses, reissues or CD/MP3 will be made available so you need to move fast on this one!

PHARAOH OVERLORD have been working on the dark side of post rock for a decade, but took a sharp, unexpected turn into the heart of true heavy metal
with their landmark "Out Of Darkness" album. Now reissued on a limited vinyl album by Svart, this album features most of the members from Finnish neo-kraut pioneers Circle and is fast becoming a cult classic.

The 10th Anniversary deluxe edition of the self titles debut album (Ripple Music) from the Port Orchard, WA hard rock trio MOS GENERATOR is upon us. The stunning package includes a 12” vinyl version of the original album, remixed and remastered, a CD featuring the original seven songs as well as a previously unreleased track and the full “Live at the Manette” concert originally self-released in limited quantities in 2004, and a digital download card that features an exclusive twelve tracks not included on the CD or vinyl. This package is jam packed with live tracks and obscurities from the bands earliest days and contains over 2 ½ hours of music - Essential for all stoner fans!

After the release of the "Zoetrope" double album last year, Burning World now bring you LUSTMORD's "The Monstrous Soul", originally recorded and released in 1990. The album has been described as: ‘a journey through a frozen hell’ and as a latter day Dark/Ambient classic. The first 100 copies will be on green vinyl, the other 400 copies will be on pitch black vinyl. Move fast if you want a copy!

LIVING WITH LIONS “Holy Shit” ( Redfield Recordings) reveals a group of young Canadian Punk Rockers maturing and truly coming into their own on all levels. The album touches on all the hallmarks of good punk rock – angst, frustration, regret, longing and triumph – while staying true to the band’s definitive sound. The albums best tracks recall the likes of Face To Face and Bad Religion in full flight. This was released on Billie (Green Day) Joe's Adeline label in the States, and you can check the band out live in the UK as apart of this month's Eastpak Resistance Tour.

Early 2011 saw the mighty HAMMER OF THE GODS embark on a UK tour in support of Crowbar, garnering the respect of the Metal audience and beginning
the building of their empire with a mighty and memorable show of force. Their self-titled debut EP (Lone Vigil) contains three brand new tracks on the release include 'The Halting' & ‘Earthshaker’ both of which have featured on the Radio 1 Rock Show. The band appeared at this year’s Sonisphere & Bloodstock Festivals and received a glowing KKKK Kerrang review for the EP hailing the band as “Super-Heavy Brit Sludge Sluggers!” We quite agree.

With an average age of just 18, STEAK NUMBER EIGHT are probably the youngest hard rock band in Belgium to enjoy genuine national success; and not since the early days of Deus have a Belgian band threatened to take their home success further afield. On their impressive "All Is Chaos" (Vzw) debut enormous, hard-hitting riffs are sandwiched between moody, atmospheric interludes, with the band themselves reminiscent of how a super-group consisting of members of Isis, Mastodon and Killing Joke might sound like if fronted by a young Kurt Cobain. Definitely a band to watch in the future!

Despite hailing from Mississippi LISA MILLS is very well known to British Blues audiences after some well received live gigs and the little matter of sharing of a recent “Blues Matters” magazine cover with her admirer Robert Plant. Recorded far from the Delta in rural Kent, new album “Tempered In Fire” (Burnside) features some gorgeous soul tinged blues, all topped off with Lisa’s full throated Plant endorsed vocals.

The reissue department keeps unearthing those hidden gems…

French act SANDROSE were formed from the ashes of legendary Psych outfit Eden Rose and their self titled album has long been acknowledged as one of the French Rock scene's most important and hard to find artefacts. Well collectors need fret no more as it is now available on CD for the first time, it is packaged in an elegant 16-page booklet which reproduces all the original LP art; liner-notes tell the band’s history, and includes rare photos, a discography, and translations of several contemporary articles. If you love groups like Earth & Fire, Julian's Treatment/Julian Jay Savarin, Goliath, or Analogy, then "Sandrose" (Lion Productions) is an obvious addition to your collection.

The "Seaders Anthology" (Lion Production) contains all the known recordings of infectious Middle Eastern inflected rock/beat from the SEA-DERS (or Cedars), Lebanon's top musical export to the world. Eight dynamic tracks, with driving rhythms, blazing electric bouzouki recorded between 1966-1968. Round about 1965, many groups (Kinks, Beatles, Byrds...) started to add some Eastern sounds to their music but the lesser known Seaders were the true masters of the form. Despite a later move to London, mainstream success eluded the band but this package; complete with liner notes from Mike Stax (Ugly Things) gives the band a much deserved critical re-appraisal.

KALEIDIOSCOPE were a cornerstone act of British psychedelia and Sunbeam Records is delighted to present the definitive collector’s vinyl editions of both the "Tangerine Dream" and "Faintly Blowing" LP's. Produced with the full involvement of the band, each comes complete with lovingly reproduced artwork, as well as lavish 12-page, full-colour, large-format booklets packed with original trade ads, memorabilia and contemporary press cuttings, and with exclusive sleeve notes by the quartet’s leader Peter Daltrey, telling the story of the band in full detail.
Simply essential albums for all connoisseurs of British psychedelia.

ELECTRIC SOUND SHOW (Particles) is the official off-shoot CD compilation series that follows the long-deleted, vinyl-only compilation LP series, "Incredible Sound Show Stories" originally issued in 1995 by Dig The Fuzz records. For the first time ever, all five volumes are compiled to provide a colourful voyage through all the worldwide havens of psychedelia. The 6CD box-set also provides expansive and analytical notes housed in a handsome 56 page colour booklet. A lovely set and possibly the best worldwide psychedelic compilation available right now.

Over the last few month’s the “Hell’s Headbangers” label has quietly (well not literally quietly, but you know what we mean) become one of our best selling Metal labels with some top notch releases This month is no exception with the following gems hitting the streets…

EMBALMED - “Exalt The Imperial Beast” – the legendary Black Metallers debut album arrives after seventeen years of them cementing their cult underground status.
SPEEDWOLF – “Ride With Death” – rollicking biker Punk/Thrash reminiscent of classic GBH and Motorhead.
VLADIMIRS – “The Late Hours” – Anthemic horror punk that quite frankly blows recent offerings from Misfits and AFI right out of the water.
MIDNIGHT – “Satanic Royalty” – A must for those who thrill to the old school proto Black Metal sounds of Bathory, Venom and Hellhammer. It comes with a free live DVD to boot!

And finally why not support some new UK talent?

Brighton based Post Rock merchants LAST DAYS OF LORCA have a self titled E.P. our on NWFA which is an organic musical evolution from this progressive outfit. Taking elements of post-hardcore, math-rock and suffusing proceedings with an aura of crystalline shoegaze, LDOL offer a very unique, scintillating and decidedly English take on alternative rock. One for Radiohead or Mars Volta fans we think...

THE MATCHSTICKMEN hail from Liverpool where they are something of a local Rock sensation. Check out the band’s Foo Fighters / Pearl Jam influenced sound on
their choice debut album “Through Hell And Kept Going” (Mainline).

And to finish with we have "Hard Time" (Western Star) the fantastic debut album by up-coming UK Psychobilly act THE DEVIL WRAYS from Brighton. It's a total must for old Klub Foot regulars or those with a penchant for genuine Fifties Rock And Roll.

Thanks for reading this far – See y’all next month.

Code 7.

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Hello and welcome to Code 7’s October release schedule highlights, as usual please don’t forget to check out more in depth information on all of these releases and more by going to Code 7 Decoded (www.code7decoded.com ). Plus check our new vinyl titles on (www.code7vinyl.com).

One of the most significant release's for the Prog World this year is the much anticipated WHITE WILLOW album "Terminal Twilight" (Termo). Something of a comeback release for one of the leaders of the new wave of progressive rock from Scandinavia in the 90's. The new album features some of Scandinavia's best players ( members of Änglagård, Jaga Jazzist, Wobbler,Gösta Berlings Saga and No-Man) and the band's best material to date, mixing retro prog, dark folk and post-rock into a very potent and unique blend of music.

Formed in 2008 in Minneapolis, WOLVHAMMER in their short existence have gained a reputation as one of America’s most notorious black metal influenced bands. Their 2010 debut “Black Marketers Of WWIII”, quickly gained the band acclaim for their style of mixing black metal (Darkthrone, Celtic Frost/Hellhammer), sludge, curst, and punk into a vicious unrelenting mix. After getting some touring under their belt, Wolvhammer are set to take things to the next level new album "The Obsidian Plains" (Profound Lore). Easily surpassing and trumping their debut, “The Obsidian Plains” sees the boys move up a notch into the elite of America’s blackened metal scene, making this an absolute must for fans of Nachtmystium, Cobalt, Ludicra, Darkthrone and Leviathan.

SMOKEY BASTARD have been building a cult following across the UK and Europe in the past two years. "Tales From The Wasteland" (Bomber Music) is their second album, the first was self released and sold direct to fan only with no PR. It sold out. With a heavy touring schedule this autumn and the backing of high profile radio types Ian Camfield on XFM and Mike Davies on BBC1 it's time for the masses to find out about this underground phenomenon. Musically you can hear hints of Gogol Bordello, Flogging Molly, The Pogues, Manu Chao, Skints and many other disparate influences but their unique sound is very much their own.

COLORAMA is based around the talents of multi-instrumentalist-singer-songwriter Carwyn Ellis; a nomadic childhood saw Carwyn flit between Wrexham, Hereford, the West Midlands and the small Anglesey village of Benllech, yet it is his Welsh roots that most eloquently inform his timeless, beautifully written & performed bucolic psychedelic ‘folk’ music - all but one of the tracks on "Llyfr Lliwio" (See Monkey Do Monkey) are sung in his native language. Colorama's first mini-LP, "The Magic Lantern Show" in 2009, picked up considerable support from 6Music, Radio 1 & 2 and XFM; and was quickly followed by the critically acclaimed full-lengther "Box" in 2010 - "Llyfr Lliwio" continues the tale – delicate, enchanting and poetic it recalls everything from Vashti Bunyan, to the Super Furry Animals via Fairport Convention, David Crosby, Gorkys and Ray Davies at his most ‘village green’

EMILY O'HALLORAN is not a trend-driven artist. Fresh and seemingly in her own world, she writes smoky Americana, her husky voice enveloping each track like cut velvet. Delivering her poetically understated songs in a penetrating baritone, Emily creates a cinematic Americana ghost town of landscape shot through with
a raw, mystical energy - bordering at times on the shamanic. Her voice speaks volumes, like her lyrics, deep, intimate, and intensely compelling, Think Nico and Tom Waits. Think Lucinda and Emmylou. Think Mazzy Star and Cowboy Junkies. Think desert music, well past midnight in an old pick-up truck where you don't know where the ground ends and the stars appear. Her album “Morphine And Cupcakes” (Burnside) is highly and heartily recommended by us for sure!

DARK FOREST was formed in 2002 and over the last decade have combined a strong appreciation for the classical with the full blooded sound of a distinctly English
brand of heavy metal. After one full length release and two successful EPs Dark Forest are striking out again with the ambitious release of "Dawn of Infinity"
(Cruz Del Sur). The album marries classic British metal composition with folklore and a definite Celtic influence. Guitars lead the songwriting, with duelling
moments of Iron Maidenesque tradition supported by a charismatic and operatic vocalist. If classic Maiden/Priest/Isen Torr float your boat then these are
the men for those air guitar moments this autumn…

IRON CLAW's "A Different Game" (Ripple) is the first new music from the legendary Scottish rockers in over thirty years, “A Different Game” finds the band approaching their brand of melodic heavy rock from the only perspective they’ve ever known . . . with honesty and integrity. Recorded live with few overdubs, this new album captures a raw veteran band playing with the exuberance and gusto of a band half their age, and geared up to turn a whole new generation of rock fan onto their guitar-driven, gritty blues-tinged sound. One for fans of Bad Co., Deep Purple, Whitesnake, Free, Thin Lizzy, Skynyrd and blues based Rock in general.

"Aloof", "meandering", and "unwilling to 'seize the moment'” have proven to be positive elements for alt/underground hip-hop crew, THE COOL KIDS
on latest album "When Fish Ride Bicycles" (Burnside), a highly rewarding De La Soul-esque experience which has seen tremendous CD sales and considerable positive press notices over the last month. However like all the best Hip Hop albums it really needs to be heard on Vinyl! - And is if by magic we have a limited Double Vinyl version available from October 24th. Pre-order your copy now or regret it forever!

"Split" (Specialist Subject) is a 4 way split from CHUCK RAGAN plus 3 of his favourite singer / songwriters from the UK punk scene, Sam Russo, Jimmy Islip and
Helen Chambers. Last October the 4 artists played an intimate sold out show together at The Windmill in Brixton and nearly a year later this split is finally seeing the light of day; 3 tracks from each artist are all available on the 12” vinyl.
Chuck Ragan first made a name for himself as singer / guitarist of Hot Water Music
before releasing his first solo album in 2007. 4 years down the road and he's now preparing to release his 3rd studio album, Covering Ground on Side One Dummy. aswell as filling a spot on the "Revival" tour this October. Sam Russo (Cambridge) Jimmy Islip (West Yorkshire) and Helen Chambers (York) make up the remainder of the album and all prove worthy heirs to the great British folk-punk tradition of Billy Bragg, Joe Strummer and Frank Turner. Again this is a highly limited vinyl release so Pre-order your copy now or regret it forever!

Avant! is a great new label signing for Code 7 and their first two releases are stunners...

KING DUDE is one rising star in the US dark-folk scenario whose trad-apocalyptic ballads mix the dark touch of Death In June with the classic folk of Dylan,
Guthrie and Leonard Cohen in a very personal and impressive way. “Tonight’s Special Death” is the King’s first full-length album, its ten tracks show up on clear grey vinyl and feature two unreleased bonus tracks over the previously released cd.

DREAM AFFAIR meanwhile are a cold wave group based in Brooklyn, NY. The band's references include UK post-punk, French cold wave, Wax Trax industrial
and 4AD shoegaze. Their debut full-length album "Endless Days" perfects the cold dichotomy of romanticised vocals and guitars being vetted against the industrial chill of the rhythm section. Reminiscent of The Cure, Joy Division, Banshees and Swans at their respective peaks.

Following the success of last year's limited 7" singles the long-awaited self-titled album from YOU LOVE HER COZ SHE'S DEAD (Glasstone) is finally here. In anticipation of the release YLHCSD have already been warming the album set up this year with acts like Sleigh Bells, Ed Banger, Huoratron, Flux Pavilion and Blood Red Shoes at various shows and European Festivals. YLHCSD also appeared in Channel 4 hit 'Skins' and have received glowing reviews in the NME. Definitely a band to watch into 2012...

WHITE ORANGE is here to shred your ears with their self-titled debut album! Recorded in Portland, Oregon this is the rock record of 2011 and is the musical
equivalent of shamanic time travel. They’re transmuting such bands as Kyuss, Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr and Mastodon into their own brew of psychedelic soda pop brought on by the spiralling evolution of sound. Tired of soulless weak indie bands? Are you taking psychedelic drugs in your bedroom? Are you having conversations with the universe? Then this band is speaking to you. CD and vinyl both feature fittingly psychedelic original cover art by Raul Casillas.

Stockholm born GORDON FIGHTS were born with the aim to create and play great soulful rock music. Genuine, with influences rooted in everything from Lynyrd
Skynyrd, Otis Redding, Stooges and Jefferson Airplane to more modern acts like Sonic Youth and Kyuss. Gordon Fights quickly made it self a reputation as an
explosive live band, and have shared the stage with bands like Graveyard and Dollhouse to name a few. Their self titled debut (Transubstans) is well worth a listen.

Italian power trio JOHNFISH SPARKLE strike back with their second effort "Flow" (Transubstans). Blues-rock and classic riffs are mixed with a modern feel
resulting in 10 tracks of pure Zeppelinesque/bluesrock energy - You will not be disappointed by this particular wall of sound!

The reissue department is re-discovering yet more obscure gems...

The Groove Club is happy to present twenty-two records from the magic years 1966-71 (with two inclusions from 1976 & 77) of the French underground Mod/Psych scene on "LA CONFISEERIE MAGIQUE" (Lion Productions) - truly decadent pop-sike...whether it's the arch-hippie Lolita taking us beyond the limits of pop music, singing songs which make one dream of Anicée Alvina riding her bicycle in a red dress... or whether it's sunny and stunning, or brooding and tinged with sadness. The accompanying 24 page CD booklet is chock full of information, sharing
the scene's previously untold story, as well as providing information about all of the tracks on this painstakingly curated volume of our celebrated Groove Club series. Popisme fantastique!!!

JARDINE’s album was recorded in three glorious weeks in June 1969, at Sounds Aquarian Studios, a stone’s throw from Carnaby Street. Polydor was supposed to release the album. Musicians dropped in to say "hello" and ended up
on the record (uncredited)—among them Peter Frampton, Andy Bown (Herd/Quo), and Brian Appleyard (East of Eden). Singer Mickey Cox had been in Robert Plant’s pre-Led Zeppelin group The Band of Joy. But suddenly, thanks to band management problems, the LP was shelved. Now, forty years later, you can be among the first to discover the brooding excellence of "Look In The Window" (Lion Productions). A 16-page booklet accompanies this lost jewel of late-1960's UK psychedelia, from a short-lived but charismatic band!

It might be easy to think of EDEN ROSE as simply a first version of famed French progressive band 'Sandrose'. Both bands had the same musicians; both existed at nearly the same moment in time (c.1970). But Eden Rose is now seen, quite rightly, as something unique, a chimera from the misty past, a time during which the winds of change were blowing on the fixed universe of music. "On The Way To Eden" (Lion Productions) finally gives their one classic album a legit reissue with two bonus tracks added from the bands only single. An accompanying booklet has the band’s story in English and French.

The career of MYTHOS been similar to that of Tangerine Dream and Klaus Schulze, also from West Berlin. They also began working as a rock band in the line up of guitar, drums, bass, keyboards and vocals before moving on to more electronic pastures. At the gig in Stagge's Hotel in Osterholz-Scharmbeck near Bremen in March 1976 Mythos were still fully in their Krautrock phase. The songs of the then fresh album "Dreamlab" formed the foundation, plus additional titles that
would never make it to one of the studio albums. They can be heard here for the very first time on “Superkraut – Live At Stagge’s Hotel” (Sireena). This is a real Kraut rock collectable!

Following FRANZ K's debut album "Senseman", "Rock in Deutsch" (Sireena) was published in 1973 by Zebra. With their hearse, which adorns the front cover of the album, Franz K. was constantly on the road in Germany. Similar to their British counterpart's The Edgar Broughton Band, social criticism was packed in German texts. The band shot against militarism, consumer greed, injustice in the workplace and met precisely the taste of students and apprentices in the difficult economic climes of the early Seventies.

FILLING THE GAP VOLS 1-5 (Psychic Circle) is a truly terrific 5-CD collection compiling a wealth of non-LP US psych / garage tracks by artists who are better-known for their work on albums. Spanning legends like The Blues Magoos, The Human Beinz and The Lollipop Shoppe as well as obscurities like Homer, Stone Garden and The Federal Duck, the set is not only highly informative and entertaining, but will also save a fortune for collectors who would otherwise have to shell out a small fortune to hear many of the songs included. It comes complete with a full booklet containing detailed background information about each artist and many rare photos, making it a must-have for psych aficionados and those who enjoy the Nuggets / Pebbles / Flashbacks style compilations.

Originally circulated in a private edition of just 200 vinyl copies in 1977, "Puritanical Odes" (Sunbeam) from BRUCE JANAWAY is among the most intensely personal and poetic albums ever made in Britain. Setting startling words to haunting 12-string guitar, it has been described as ‘one of the ultimate incarnations of what today is referred to as 'downer/acid folk’, and makes its first appearance on CD here with accompanying booklet including full lyrics.

BOSSE DE NAGE is a reclusive four piece black metal entity from the San Francisco Bay Area who have an affinity for the bizarre and would rather keep their identities their own. They formed in 2006, recorded two demos and released a self-recorded full length in 2010... ‘II’ (Flenser) is Bosse-de-Nage’s follow up to these minimalist black metal weirdoes’s self titled debut. This album features a HUGE sound along with the Lousiville-styled post rock (think Slint / Rodan) influences and black metal weirdness that made Bosse-de-Nage’s debut a divisive genre defying classic. This is black metal, but black metal tinged with classical 20th century minimalism and outlandish vocals and bizarre outsider lyrics. For fans of Alcest, Slint & Darkthrone.

RUSS SAINTY's "Radio Play That Song Again" (Fury) features 76 tracks over three cd's from legendary 60’s singer Russ Sainty plus his backing band The Nu-Notes, featuring legendary guitarist Rhett Stoller and The Dallas Boys. This album was 54 years in the making, as it is the first solo album from Russ Sainty. He recorded on many of the big labels in the 60’s with his hit on Decca Records “Race With The
Devil” in 1962. CD1 features new recordings by Russ Sainty recorded over the last 18 months. CD2 are Russ Sainty releases in chronological order from 1959 to 1968. CD3 is a collection of unreleased demos, acetates, radio broadcasts and instrumentals.
A must for both Sixties and Rock N Roll collectors.

And before we sign off please remember to support some up and coming UK talent...

"Clues" (See Monkey Do Monkey) is the debut album of self-styled noise pop cosmopolitan BENSH , and the sum of a six year expedition to some of the
most eclectic places in pop. Born in Innsbruck, Austria, Bensh studied composition in the UK in 2004 and his track 'Doubt' received massive airplay in Europe earlier this year and now new single 'How Come Nao' is following suit. On stage, Bensh is
joined by virtuoso synth-wizard Sion Trefor from Cardiff and Bensh’s multi-instrumentalist brother Sevo.

UK-based GRIFTER unleashes their first full length album (Ripple Music). This self-titled forty-plus minute barrage of hard and heavy, gritty-biker blues rock owes as much to the classic sounds of AC/DC and Motorhead as it does to Soundgarden and Clutch. After forming in 2003, this trio of 70’s loving hard rockers have delivered heaping loads of heavy rock n’ roll to music lovers across the British Isles, and now, they’re bringing their high octane, Guinness fuelled sound to the rest of the world!

London 5-piece THE SEPARATION throw an exhilarating fusion of catchy hooks, energetic riffage and frenzied vocals together in a sound reminiscent of Rise Against, Coheed & Cambria and Foo Fighters, on their excellent "Or Lives In Cinema" (Engineer) EP.

"Bite The Hand That Feeds" (TNS) is the second release from the north-west’s RISING STRIKE delivering a fast and angry combination of hardcore, punk and ska, carrying intelligent politically charged lyrics that a perfectly timed to the ‘current climate’. For fans of Leftover Crack, Operation Ivy & Beat The Red Light!

Thanks for reading this magnum opus…See you next month!

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Now the Festival and Holiday Season has calmed down it must be time to look at our releases for September…Remember all of these and many other titles can be looked at in depth via the September issue of our DECODED online magazine.

Surfacing from the sludge/doom/psychedelic/post-metal genre, Chicago’s THE ATLAS MOTH have been fast establishing a reputation as one of the most prominent young heavy music bands in America today. They have already done endless touring in their short time as a band, and it is through this that they have rose to prominence within the sludge and post metal scenes. Their “Glorified Piece Of Blue Sky” debut grabbed quite a bit of acclaim with the band being compared to the likes of Isis, Neurosis, Mastodon, Mogwai, Eyehategod and Black Sabbath while upholding a Floyd-esque proggy influence. Their new release “An Ache For The Distance” (Profound Lore) sees the 'Moth focus their structure more on a stronger sense of overall song writing, and should see the band solidify their profile as one of the most important bands in America’s underground music scene today.

YOB might be one of the best bands in North America, declared the New York Times in March of 2010. The Eugene, Oregon based doom metal trio have earned similar praise worldwide, with a growing host of fans citing the band as one of the most profound and accomplished doom metal phenomena of the 21st century. "Live at Roadburn 2010" (Roadburn) captures the band on their first European tour and this CD and DVD documents one of their best ever gigs for posterity making this package the perfect accompaniment for their latest album “Atma” which was released by Profound Lore back in August.

Most if not all BONG releases thus far have been live, and the new "Live At Roadburn 2010" (Burning World) LP is much less of a lo-fi recording than most of those, making for an essential document of Bong's unique trance-inducing potency. The two tracks captured clock in at a staggering 57 minutes and are housed in a Deluxe super-thick varnished gatefold sleeve making this both an absolutely essential document of Bong's unique trance-inducing potency and is an absolute must for collectors.

THE LOUD are soon to be a name on the lips of the masses, with their new mini album, 'Harris Shutter' (Payper Tiger) and nationwide tour this September. A religious experience live and with just the same energy contained on tape, you'll find them and their debut album hard to ignore. Mixing together the sounds of The Stooges (who they recently supported) and T.Rex with the more modern feel of The Jesus and Mary Chain and Pixies to great effect it has to be said that this is one act you will ignore at your peril. The LP comes with deluxe packaging including download codes, 36"wide fold-out poster artwork and vellum paper lyric sheets and the CD comes neatly housed in a 6 panel digipak sporting fold-out panoramic pop-art design with hand-stamped postcards and vellum paper lyric sheet.

Now firmly established as a major force in Doom/Stoner Metal is the 'Church Within' label whose march continues this month with the great debut album "Return To Earth" from SIGIRIYA. Seasoned scene veterans will be delirious to find that eight years after the demise of Acrimony, guitarist Stu O’Hara, bassist Mead, drummer Darren Ivey and vocalist Dorian Walters have reconvened under a new name. Down time served in the likes of Iron Monkey, Helvis, Dukes Of Nothing and Black Eye Riot, have only added to their thick output, giving the foursome a more dynamic,
meaner, leaner, earthier approach, which has developed an intense dirty sound with elements of boogie, classic rock and even Crust-Punk.

Formed in February 1997, to celebrate the legacy of Saint Vitus and Sleep, SPANCER couldn't stay true to the lore of traditional doom metal because they had listened too much to more extreme bands such as EyeHateGod, Cavity, Church of Misery, Iron Monkey, Grief, Burning Witch, Winter and Warhorse. Their debut album "Greater Than The Sun" (Church Within) is the resultant cathartic doom fest celebrating the legacy of the heaviest soul filled form of rock music imaginable, combined with heavy psychedelic 70s effects abuse, the easiness of southern rock, and the willingness to kick major ass.

Not one but two songs have been recorded and completed by those Birmingham lads KYOTO DRIVE. After their success with their debut album “This Is All We Ever Wanted” they have followed it up with two hugely catchy songs on their "So Much Alive / Chapters" EP (Engineer) which will be released in time for Kyoto Drive's upcoming tour with The Morning Of and Paige this autumn.

"Countrysides" (Engineer) features beautiful acoustic guitar songs from JONAH MATRANGA; something of a legend in the alternative / emo / hardcore scene. A singer, songwriter and guitarist who has released a variety of solo material
under his own name and onelinedrawing. He has previously been part of the bands Far, New End Original and Gratitude. His partner in crime on this release is MIKEE J REDS who may be a newer name to many but who has done his time too, playing in The Sketch and Call Off The Search whilst touring constantly.

Also out on Engineer are great releases from NATAHNIEL SUTTON (Singer songwriter gear from Edmonton Canada), HER ONLY PRESENCE (Barcelona's answer to Sunny Day Real Estate) and THE SATELLITE YEAR (A thrilling mix of Anberlin and Jimmy Eat World influences).

The reissue department is as busy as ever this month...

Leading the way is brand new issue of Psych bible SHINDIG. The Quarterly Number Three issue features in depth articles on legends The Left Banke, Beau Brummels, Roy Harper, Dug Dug's and New York Dolls, as well as a fascinating feature on the US "Paisley Underground” scene of the early Eighties (think Rain Parade, Long Ryders, Three O’Clock, Dream Syndicate, Bangles etc) which is worth the cover price alone.

THE FREE SPIRITS "Live At The Scene" (Sunbeam) features the earliest recordings of the young Larry Coryell; this short-lived quintet is widely acclaimed. Those lucky enough to have seen them in performance maintain that their true power was only communicated live. Taped in their native NYC in February 1967, this legendary live recording captures their fiery sound at its peak, with guest appearances by legendary jazzmen Dave Liebman, Randy Brecker and Joe Beck. The historically important set comes complete with detailed liner notes and rare pictures, making it essential for fans of both jazz and psychedelic rock.

WIZZ JONES is an undisputed giant of modern folk, and one of the finest acoustic guitarists Britain has ever produced. Though he has made numerous acclaimed studio albums, often accompanied by luminaries such as Bert Jansch, Ralph McTell and John Renbourn, he has never released a solo live recording… until now. "Huldenberg Blues" (Sunbeam) captures the entire ambience and spontaneity of a gig, the set finds Wizz performing both standards and originals, all the while showcasing the inimitable musicianship that has won him fans including Keith Richards, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page.

"Lost In My World" (sometimes referred to as Self Titled) is the "must have" 1971 debut album from psychedelic guru Armando Nava and his band DUG DUG's recorded after their US trip did not produce the stardom they had been
Promised, the pain and disappointment sparking great song-writing on this, the first Mexican psych album in English. This is the first time for this trippy classic on CD courtesy of new Code 7 label Lion Productions.

"Smog" (Lion Productions) meanwhile is the DUG DUG's classic second album (1972) Nava's band is in Spanish this time, as all other Mexican bands were by now singing in English. There’s no doubt that the Dug Dug’s also toughened up their sound on "Smog": to some people they sound like a crazy Mexican version of Jethro Tull, and to others like a Spanish speaking incarnation of the MC5.

The story is the same for both Volumes two and three of the "GROOVE CLUB" (Lion Productions) collections of Cambodian music: people in Cambodia kept hold of this music on pain of death, their small hoards of forbidden vinyl putting them constantly in danger of the "killing fields". There were no deluxe studios for the musicians who recorded the devastating tracks contained on this CD version of the acclaimed double-LP collections. Nothing so grand; Most of these tracks were recorded live, with traditional instruments finding a place alongside any keyboards or guitars that could be found. And yet, it was these experiments of Khmer rock musicians which transformed the nightlife of the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh—and which many years later have seduced countless listeners around the world with their groovy sound. Alas, in 1975 came the rise to power in Cambodia of the fanatical, anti-Western Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot and the music scene was over. These are two fascinating and unrepeatable time capsules.

An unearthed rarity from another region of the world is SANDHY AND MANDHY's "Para Castukis" (Lion Productions) Sandhy & Mandhy were among the first in South America to bring a rebellious attitude to their music—all this in a period of military repression, when forced haircuts (and brutality) in the streets were a common occurrence. Now years later you can check out their groovy, organ-driven melancholy psych, with Zombies-ish harmony vocals, a little touch of bossa, and other treats (some lovely fuzz guitar!) - At times introspective and acoustic, at others manic and ramshackle in the best way, it's quite a discovery. The 28-page booklet has the full Sandhy & Mandhy story, plenty of photos, and lyrics in Spanish and English along with five bonus tracks.

PUSSY "Invasion" (Rockadrome) features un-earthed rare tracks by the early 70s post-Jerusalem UK hard rock group, managed and produced by Ian Gillan
of Deep Purple). This early 70s UK hard rock band was formed immediately after the break-up of Jerusalem and the recordings featured here include previously unreleased tracks planned for Pussy's debut album, plus cuts from their lone single release on the Deram label, as well as some other previously unreleased recordings by both of the group's line-ups.

Not a reissue but an essential listen for West Coast fans are OLD CALIFORNIO who channel Moby Grape rawness, American Beauty acousticism, and even moments of Loose Fur punk rock avant-garde on their third release "Sundrunk Angels" (Burnside). OC wear the rootsy, organic heart of California on their sleeves. From the communal rustic/cosmic feel of "Better Yet", the daring and unpredictable "Allon Camerado", to the oddly archaic "Jewels and the Dross" and the stark and ethereal title track "Sundrunk Angels".

If that sounds appealing then you may want to check out their "Westering Again" (Burnside) album which is the band's original 2009 release recorded in their old chicken coop garage turned recording studio in Pasadena, CA. Herein OLD CALIFORNO set out to mix a gritty soup of bucolic rock & roll influenced as
much by Moby Grape, Crazy Horse and The Grateful Dead as by the chaparral canyons and ungovernable San Gabriel mountains themselves.

Moving in the same sonic terrain as Sonic Youth and Unwound are Swiss act VENTURA who’s second full length “We Recruit” (Africantape) made them many friends last year. This month we bring you the Vinyl 12" version - Hear it once and you will a) be hooked and b) questioning whether this band don't really hail from New York or Chicago!

Also on Africantape this month is "DNA" the 12" vinyl release of AUCAN's previous CD only release. The band feature Zu’s Drummer and are thoroughly recommended to fans of Battles, Zu, Fourtet and Squarepusher.

DEVIL were formed in 2009, with the intention of following the musical footsteps of blues based heavy rock bands such as Black Sabbath, Pentagram and Witchfinder General. Their album "Time to Repent" (Soulseller) can best be described as a joyful ride to hell. The mix of swaggering doom, traditional heavy metal and bluesy hard rock, all set in authentic vintage package is a must for all you old Sabbath fans!

Originally born as a one-man incarnation which soon became four ROTE MARE play heavy traditional doom metal with epic and melodic touches. Influenced by the 70's doom/rock of Black Sabbath combined with the 80's doom/metal of Trouble & Celtic Frost through to the more recent sounds of Reverend Bizarre, Rote Mare combine all these elements into their own unique but traditional style on "Serpents Of The Church" album (Altsphere)

This month’s Metal dark horse is FYRNASK's "Bluostar" (Temple Of Torturous) which can be best described as a combination of classic black metal rooted together with an eerie ambience. The overall results are highly recommended to fans of Sunn o))), Earth, Boris and many other Profound Lore / Southern Lord style acts.

Take a step back in time to 1981 and GASKIN's debut album ‘End Of The World’ (Krescendo) is released in 1981 - Thirty years on and it is rightly regarded as one of the early highlights of the NWOBHM. The band's mixture of talent and classic Rock style is still well remembered and this is the first time the album has been made available on cd.

Moving along a year to 1982, and the second LOUDNESS album ‘Devil Soldier’ (Krescendo) is released. As with it's predecessor, the album proved a great success in the band's native Japan. It is released here on CD for the first time outside of Japan and it has never sounded so good!

Two Psychobilly legends THE TALL BOYS and RESTLESS both have "Live At the Klub Foot" (Trophy/Western Star) sets released this month. Both are great quality, previously unheard, full length live albums recorded at the legendary London venue of the mid 80’s.

"CRIME DON'T PAY OK?" (Western Star) is a themed compilation of Crime & Punishment songs by modern Rockabilly & Psychobilly bands including Kotton Kandy, Jack Rabbit Slim, Bad Detectives and Rockin’ Rocket 88

The next batch of "Rock It Up" label titles are now available including:

BETO VAZQUEZ INFINTIY - "Darkmind" and "Existence Part One" are both Symphonic Metal gems with fantastic singers and great musicians in the vein of Epica, Nightwish, Edenbridge and Stratovarius.

SORROW'S PATH - ""The Rough Path of Nihilism” is first class Progressive Power / Doom Metal somewhere between Solitude Aeturnus, Candlemass and Memento Mori.

TOMMY VITALY has released 2 albums with his Power Metal band Seven Gates and now releases his first solo album "Just me"“- Excellent Neoclassical Power Metal for fans of Yngwie Malmsteen et al.

And finally why not support some Great British Talent?

UNDERSMILE is a Sludgecore/Doom band from Oxford, England. They grew up to the strains of Melvins, Mudhoney etc and are influenced by the slow/heavy sound of the early 90’s as well as bands such as Harvey Milk, early Swans and Pissed
Jeans. Their twin vocals combine with ultra-slow downtuned riffing. They have been gaining endless praise recently from followers of the genre - Check out the LTD debut EP “A Sea Of Dead Snakes" (Blindsight) to join them!

If that tickles your fancy then UNDERSMILE also have a split EP (Blindsight) with Hampshire band CARETAKER on Blindisght wherein both bands recall the sounds of Isis, Knut, Neurosis, Melvins, Harvey Milk and Swans. Great stuff.

Debut album A Crack in Paradise by DUBWISER features 16 tracks of heavy dub fused with classic reggae song writing featuring UK rap and soul artists. A four piece reggae band who have played individually and collectively with many renowned artists (Lee Perry, Mad Professor etc) .Dubwiser have a reputation of being a great live act playing over the UK at festivals and venues. Their live mixture of Roots, Dub, Sugar Minott type reggae and new age fusion is captured perfectly on this album.

Thanks for reading to the end - See you in October!
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Rumour has it that summer is actually here, and as such it must be time for a paragraph or seven about our August release pack…don’t forget to check out Decoded for a more in depth look at ALL our August releases in more detail…

The whole black metal meets post-rock/shoegaze sound that has infiltrated the black metal underground of late has quickly become a widely known movement. But before people started to really take note of this underground trend, the UK’s CAINA had long been tampering with such influences since the band’s inception as a primitive raw one-man black metal band. Began solely by Andrew Curtis Brignell while still in his teens, the young British musician already had a unique vision melding raw primitive black metal and indie-rock/shoegaze/4AD influences. His unique vision was likened by many critics to a mix between Burzum, Mogwai and The Red House Painters. “Hands That Pluck” (Profound Lore) is the fourth album in the Caina legacy and is their most ambitious album to date. Imagine if 4AD or Mute were releasing a Black metal album and you will be in the right ball park for the band’s sound - Initial quantities of the album come with a bonus CD, an EP entitled “Old Songs, New Chords” which re-interprets four Caina classics (and a Nico cover) versus their re-mastered original versions.

When YOB announced their comeback in 2008, the timing for them couldn’t have been more fitting since doom metal was on the rise and Yob’s status within the doom metal scene had already reached legendary levels. So when 2009’s “The Great Cessation” was released it was widely acclaimed worldwide as the best doom metal album of that year. With their new album “Atma" (Profound Lore) they have created their most dynamic, varied, and progressive album to date. Whilst following in the tradition and pattern of their previous releases by manifesting long, epic, and extremely heavy and crushing doom metal monuments the album also explores new musical ground. “Atma's” more uplifting and dynamic aura serves as the aftermath of “The Great Cessation” as a new triumph, victory, and milestone for the band.

At last - after a 3 year hiatus the debut album from Detroit /Chicago Hip Hop duo
THE COOL KIDS is finally with us! The band’s music has previously been released as mix tapes via the internet and primarily to the independent label Chocolate Industries via their own label C.AK.E recordings. In the UK, XL Recordings released The Bake Sale EP in 2008 and with a parting with Chocolate Industries the band are set to move forward again with their first album proper "When Fish Ride Bicycles" (Green Label Sound/ Burnside). An outstanding Hip Hop release that bypasses the “bling” clichés of modern rap and harkens back to the sounds of true innovators like 3rd Bass, Digital Underground, De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. Fantastic Stuff.

London based SERPENT VENOM arose from the grave in 2008 to inflict doom upon the masses. If you like your classic doom, think Saint Vitus, Pentagram and The Obsessed, then you have to check out their "Carnal Altar" (Church Within) debut. It’s brutally heavy and if you are quick, the initial cd release comes in a lavish book style package with 16 pages full of lyrics and creepy images which pays homage to the old beat, horror, pulp paperback's or Italian fumettis of the 70s. If this album was scored and we could go up to ten then we would give this one an eleven…

Burlington, Canada’s DEAD AND DIVINE are set to make a lasting impact on the UK with their heavy impacting and infectious third studio album; ‘Antimacy’ (A Wolf At Your Door). Following on from 2009s ‘The Machines We Are’ and the band’s well received UK tour with The Chariot, D&D have created a loyal troop of hardcore fans this side of the Atlantic. With a planned UK in 2011 and a significant buzz on this new album, these Canucks are on course to take over the British shores with their brutally contagious and intelligent hardcore metal.

If you are a regular reader or are involved in anyway on the UK rock scene then you will be aware of the mighty DEAF HAVANA – Rather than bore you with another biography can we just quickly point out that their first two albums “Meet Me Halfway At Least” and “It’s Called The Easy Life” are finally back in print and back in stock at all reputable music sellers? We can? Then consider it done.

Hailing from Brighton UK are MONSTERS BUILD MEAN ROBOTS whose second studio album "We Should Have Destroyed Our Generals Not Their Enemies" (Nice Weather For Airstrikes) catapults the band into a different territory than their
debut, whilst still holding onto their original core. Electronics are swapped for live drums, and each track is much more vocal based. Building on layered and delayed guitar loops, each song builds into a frenzied crescendo with the added twist of group vocals and thick strings. Post Rock sing-a-longs for the modern Apocalypse...kinda like putting Arcade Fire, Sigur Ros, Explosions in the Sky and A Silver Mt Zion on four (very loud) festival stages at the same time.

US musician/producer Kevin Moyer went into his attic studio alone with an idea and emerged with an emotionally vibrant compilation full of life and found sounds. By collaborating street musicians with friends and music professionals, he tells a story of life on the streets and the roads leading to and from there. The profits of the resultant cd "LIVE FROM NOWHERE NEAR YOU VOLUME TWO" (Burnside) will go to the Homeless & Street Youth Project ‘Outside In’. If you are still not sold on that
Noble sentiment it is worth noting that Kevin's recording friends include Daniel Johnston, Elliott Smith, Bright Eyes, Ryan Adams, Eddie Vedder, The Strokes, Josh Homme, Pearl Jam, Mike Watt, John Doe, Sleater-Kinney, The Shins, Modest Mouse, Decemberists and Wilco...A great album created to help a great cause.

British Prog-Rock legends NEKTAR are fondly remembered by most for their 1973 album "Remember The Future" (Sireena) and it is now available again as a in 180 gram heavy-weight vinyl that includes a reproduced Promo 7" Single with two radio versions. This press is in a Limited edition of 1000 copies and has been pre-selling very strongly – Do not Miss Out!

Following their successful CD reissue a couple of months ago New Zealand Psychedelic Rock trio THE HUMAN INSTINCT have all three of their albums; “Burning Up Years”, “Stoned Guitar” and “Pins In It” receiving the 180g vinyl treatment from the Sunbeam label this month.

ANDREW LEIGH’s “Magician” (Sunbeam) also has the 180g Vinyl treatment this month and is a must for fans of Leigh’s famous employers Spooky Tooth and Matthews Southern Comfort.

THE ADOLESCENTS were formed by original Agent Orange bassist Steve Soto and singer Tony Cadena /Reflex in 1979 in Fullerton, California. Along the way they recruited the Agnew brothers from Social Distortion and in 1981 released their self
titled debut album “Adolescents“which would become one of the most influential Southern California punk rock albums of all time. The first line up disbanded in late 81 but the band returned in 1986 and continued until 1989 The band once again reunited in 2001 for a 20th anniversary tour and have continued performing ever since. With a few line up changes Soto and Reflex have taken the Ad's across the globe and released OC Confidential their first studio album in 17 years in 2005. New album "The Fastest Kid Alive” (Concrete Jungle) features 15 storming new songs that connect past and present perfectly!

There is hardly any other band that combines punk rock, rock‘n‘roll and surf guitars as perfectly as the TURBO AC‘S. For over 15 years this band based around frontman
Kevin Cole has delighted a growing army of fans. New album "Kill Everyone“(Concrete Jungle) will not disappoint any of them. Play this album loudly to anyone who professes a love of Turbonegro, Motörhead or Dead Boys and the afore-mentioned ‘Turbo Army’ will have a brand new member!

MODERN PETS self titled album (Concrete Jungle) is this month’s dark horse and one of the best Punk Rock debuts this writer has heard in aeons. This German band play angular spiky Pop Punk that recalls legends like Buzzcocks, Briefs, Dickies, Damned, Clorox Girls and even early Wire. It has enough snotty edginess to avoid either pop punk or hardcore clichés and its well worth hunting down a copy. The CD contains the band’s two hard to find 7” singles as a bonus too – A future classic?!

After more than two decades TOTAL CHAOS presents their brand new album "Battered And Smashed“(Concrete Jungle) which is a mix of their hardcore influenced songs and the ‘77’ sound of their best known LP "Anthems From The Alleyway“. Having recorded for Epitaph during the label's glory years and toured the globe these mohawked lads really know their onions – making this a must for fans of GBH, Exploited, UK Subs et al.

THE RHYTHM ACES are a band that style themselves on the 1950s Edwardian Teddy-boy culture. Their new album "Hand Me Down Suits And Hobnail Boots"
(Fury) has some great self penned numbers which recreate the British rock’n’roll scene from the 50s even though it was recorded just three years ago in 2008.

THE GATE is a German Power Metal act whose members have served time in bands like Running Wild, Underdog and The Company. So it will come as no surprise to find that their debut album “Erath Cathedral” (Rock It Up) is a lean, clean, finely honed Power Metal machine of the type that mainland Europe has always been so adept at serving up. Seriously if you’re a fan of the genre then pick this one up now!

Combining influences from the world of metal with music from further afield, EUMERIA are known for songs that can be heavy and aggressive in places yet equally intimate and reflective. Formed from the ashes of the acclaimed 'Outworld'
their album "Rebel Mind" (Rebel Tide) features some truly incredible progressive metal. Recommended.

US power/thrash veterans MELIAH RAGE should need no introduction... New album "Dead To The World" (Metal On Metal) contains more mellow and classic US power metal than fans may remember but they can also still thrash with machine-gun guitar attacks. Still mostly comparable to vintage Metallica but this is a sound fans of cult thrashers like Metal Church and Wargasm will dig too!

One of the most underrated US technical thrash bands, Seattle's BITTER END called it quits soon after releasing their debut on Metal Blade, but before they did, they recorded songs for their second album. And now after 20 years "Have A Nice Death!" (Metal On Metal) finally sees the light of day (together with their "Meet Your Maker" 1988 demo and 4 live tracks as a bonus).

And don’t forget that Britain still has lots of genuine talent kicking against the Karaoke hordes of mainstream entertainment…

MORDECAI SMYTH is a band about to embark on a musical journey. Influenced by classic 60s bands like The Who, The Kinks, The Beatles and Cream, singer/guitarist, Mordecai Smyth, and bassist/producer, the Amazing Mr. Heath, have crafted a pop gem of an album in "Sticky Tape And Rust" (Mega Dodo) that mixes infuriatingly catchy hooks with classic rock sounds. It's available in a lovingly packaged CD 'tin' but may we also recommend the Limited hand numbered LP pressed on coloured vinyl with a set of postcards illustrating songs from the album. Mod lives!

ATLAS AND I hail from Norwich a city perhaps better known for Alan Partridge than as a home for fledgling post-hardcore talent, but with their debut eight-tracker ‘In Desolate Times’ (Wrapped Up In Music) progressively minded sextet ATLAS & I are out to put the angular back into East Anglia. The album – which comes packaged with a DVD featuring live footage and the band’s music videos - positively belies the band's youth and recent shows with both Deaf Havana and Underoath have proved their mettle in the live arena aswell.

"Homeward Bound" (Specialist Subject) is the debut album from Bristol 3 piece CAVES. 12 brand new tracks of raw, catchy and honest punk rock with influences from all the best bits of the punk / indie rock and grunge sounds they grew up on. This record sees the band taking the best elements of their previous work and pushing their boundaries to create their rawest, noisiest, catchiest and most tuneful tracks to date. Highly recommended if you like the sounds of either Discount or Superchunk.

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND first garnered interest after accidentally winning an Xfm Unsigned competition, resulting in a slot at the O2 Festival, Hyde Park. In quick succession a feature on BBC 2 Scotland, a debut EP, a UK tour and BBC Radio 1 sessions soon followed as did a regular slot as Welsh quirk-pop songwriter John Mouse’s backing band. Now PEI have finally found time to release their debut album ‘This Day Is A Good Enough Day’ (See Monkey Do Monkey/Crocfingers). With eleven songs hewn with PEI’s trademark brand of melancholia, dark wit and drinking sing-alongs, the album is a study in clever song writing, littered with brutal yet heart-tugging lyrics.

Thanks for reading this magnum opus….See you next month!

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Hello and welcome to Code 7’s July release schedule highlights, as usual don’t forget to check out more in depth information on all of these releases and more by going to Code 7 Decoded ( www.code7decoded.com ).

Hey Ho Let’s Go….Recorded on September 13th, 1978, the RAMONES were guests in the TV-studios of Radio Bremen, Germany. It was the bands first TV appearance in Europe. They played 25 titles in 50 minutes and left an ecstatic audience in their wake. The rest as they say is history...Captured for the first time as "The Musikladen Recordings" (Sireena) this is the complete unabridged show with all encores for the first time on dvd plus a bonus cd of the complete show. This really is an unrepeatable timepiece capturing the band at their peak and this is an absolute must for all Ramones and Punk collectors. Phenomenal.

NEW TOWN KINGS are the UK’s greatest contemporary traditional Ska band. And “Mojo” (Bomber) is their second album. They are regulars on the small festival circuit in the UK and regularly tour across Europe. Now is a great time to pick up this album so you can hear it before catching their support slots across the UK in May/June with The Skints, Headline UK tour dates in July/August or summer festival slots at One Love and Boomtown Fair. A Must for fans of Specials, Skatellites, Slackers, Bob Marley, Trojan, Aggrolites etc.

Comprised of individuals who have been involved with legendary and cult acts from their respective scenes, the new gods of U.S. Death Metal, DISMA, have already caused quite a stir in underground metal circles, most notably because their vocalist is one of the most influential and legendary death metal vocalists of all time, ex-Incantation vocalist Craig Pillard. After only one demo tape, Disma have created the biggest underground buzz on a Death Metal act in the underground for years, and no one will be disappointed by their debut album “Towards The Megalith” (Profound Lore) for it is an album that will be recognized immediately as an instant classic and is one of the most memorable and best death metal releases to surface this decade.

Masterminded by one of America’s most prominent black metal musicians, namely multi-instrumentalist Andrew Markuszewski (who is also a part of Nachtmystium and Lord Mantis), AVICHI’s second full-length “The Devil’s Fractal” (Profound Lore) will definitively mark the band down as one of the most important U.S. black metal bands, and likewise “The Devil’s Fractal” will make its mark as the most prominent U.S. black metal album of 2011. Fans of Markuszewski's other bands or acts like Deathspell Omega and Leviathan will find much to admire herein.

XASTHUR began life in late 1995-early 1996. The band had many members between ’96 and ’99 until finally becoming a solo project in 1999 through to 2010 with all subsequent albums written and recorded by Malefic/Scott. During the bands history, Xasthur released eight full-length albums, as well as numerous demos and EP’s and worked closely with labels such as Hydrahead and Southern Lord. Now their career is closing with final album “Portal of Sorrow” (Viva Hate). The Ltd. Digi Pack Version contains two unreleased bonus tracks, and is being supported in the UK by Scott's last ever interview and a six page feature for Zero Tolerance magazine. Black Metal fans will of course want this album but Scott's recent activity with bands such as Sunno))) should draw leftfield music fans in general to this excellent piece of work.

OBRERO is a doom metal/70's rock band with a heavy touch of psychedelic stoner rock originating from Stockholm/Sweden. The band's self styled "heavy, fuzzy, groovy doom rock" has rightly been hailed as a real breath of fresh air on the stagnant Stoner/Doom genre and debut album "Mortui Vivos Docent" (Night Tripper) is more than a match for recent releases by kindred spirits such as Graveyard or Witchcraft

The Reissue department is churning out the lost gems as always…

Depicting a disaffected Vietnam vet’s involvement with a violent biker gang "ANGELS FROM HELL” has long been a favourite with B-movie enthusiasts. Its’ rare soundtrack makes its CD debut this month on Reel Time and is packed with superb music, including rare contributions from cult psychedelic acts The Lollipop Shoppe and The Peanut Butter Conspiracy. Originally issued in July 1968, original copies of the LP have changed hands for as much as $250, making this reissue especially welcome.

Starring Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, written by Jack Nicholson and directed by Roger Corman, "THE TRIP" practically defines the psychedelic exploito film genre. Its superb soundtrack was originally released in September 1967, and features 18 tracks by the nascent Electric Flag, with outstanding guitar from the great Mike Bloomfield, and prominent contributions from Moog maestro Paul Beaver. Showing influences from rock, blues, jazz and classical music, it is simply one of the best psychedelic albums of the period, and is reissued in its full form for the first time here by the Reel Time label.

As a teenager in New York in the late 60s, VELVERT TURNER realized the dream of countless aspiring guitarists when he befriended and received tuition from Jimi Hendrix. Blending acid rock, funk and soul, his only LP originally appeared in July 1972, and has been described as the greatest Hendrix-inspired album ever released. Both original mixes are presented here (for the first time), and this self titled 2-CD set (Flashback) comes complete with biographical liner notes.

"Where's My Daddy?" (Sunbeam) was recorded shortly after legendary Californian psychedelic band WEST COAST POP ART EXPERIMENTAL BAND had left Reprise; this oddity is more pop-based than their previous efforts, though the eccentric influence of front man Bob Markley is still strong. Released in the summer of 1969, it sold poorly and hasn’t been widely heard since, making this 180g LP reissue especially welcome for all Psych collectors.

"A Group" (Sunbeam) by MARKLEY was in fact the final album made by psychedelic legends The West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band, recorded and released towards the end of 1969, and released under a new name in a final attempt
to find commercial success. A far cry from the experimental rock of earlier release, the album contains melodic songs and delicate arrangements, though the eccentric influence of front man Bob Markley is as strong as ever, making it essential for fans of the band. Originally issued in 1969 this is the album's first ever 180g vinyl reissue

Psych fans looking for more Modern fare could do allot worse than tune in to
IMAAD WASSIFF’s new album “Strange Hexes” (Viva Hate) which continues the man’s great tradition of excellent Post Modern Psychedelic Rock. As if to emphasise the man’s class the record has guest appearances from members of bands as diverse as The Melvins and Weezer.

MORDECAI SMYTH is a band about to embark on a musical journey. Influenced by classic 60s bands like The Who, The Kinks and The Beatles singer/guitarist, Mordecai Smyth, and bassist/producer, the Amazing Mr. Heath, have mixed influences as diverse as Jimmy Smith, Georgie Fame and Cream to deliver a near perfect pop confection on their ‘Georgina Jones’ (Mega Dodo) single. It's a limited hand numbered 7-inch single pressed on coloured vinyl, all packaged in an eye catchingly beautiful ‘Mod’ style picture sleeve - move fast for this one...

JAMES TAYLOR "And The Original Flying Machine" (Gadfly) is a unique collection of demos and incomplete versions of early songs by Taylor's first group, recorded at the start of his long and prosperous career. Teaming with his boyhood friend Danny Kortchmar and singing lead is a young Taylor who sounds very little like the artist we've come to know. Instead, this is a very "San Francisco Summer Of Love"-sounding collection that is reflective of the time it was recorded. First ever time on cd this disc is a treat for any James Taylor fan!

"Live At Jacksons Lane" (Gadfly) is an entirely solo 1991 performance by DAVE SWARBRICK, just The Fairport Convention man and his fiddle running through a selection of standards and home grown compositions. No gimmicks just solid down to earth British folk fiddling at its’ finest!

"On Reflection" is a compilation of early work and previously unreleased material from one of folk's brightest new performers ELIZA CARTHY and her former partner NANCY KERR. A unique and engaging artist with an impeccable pedigree, Eliza Carthy has recently taken the contemporary music world by storm with releases on Topic and Warner Bros. Her earliest recordings, when she was recording with fellow fiddler/vocalist Nancy Kerr are amazing glimpses into the talent and pizzazz of Carthy well before she burst onto the contemporary folk scene. "On Reflection" (Gadfly) culls tracks from both of the duo’s studio albums and also includes two Nancy Kerr solo tracks and three unreleased tracks from the duo.

"Both Ears And The Tail" (Gadfly) captures an excellent 1966 concert from DAVE SWARBRICK and MARTIN CARTHY recorded live in Nottingham, England.
It's a fascinating live document as Carthy and Swarbrick only played as a duo for three years, recording three albums in the late 1960s. After that Swarbrick joined Fairport Convention in 1969 and was the backbone of the group for many years, whilst Carthy was part of both Steeleye Span and the Watersons. Nearly forty years on and the reunited duo will be touring in the UK this Autumn.

KATE WOLF wrote the folk classics "Here in California", "Love Still Remains", "Across the Great Divide", "Unfinished Life", and "Give Yourself to Love". "Breezes" (Gadfly) features 12 cuts, recorded in June of 1973 , the album showcases Kate's voice and her beautiful delivery which went on to inspire artists such as Nanci Griffith and Emmylou Harris to cover Kate's songs to great acclaim in more recent times.

Also reissued by Gadfly this month are releases from…

CHIP TAYLOR is currently back in the press with his ‘Rock And Roll Joe’ project and in a most timely manner Chip has two rare Nineteen Nineties albums “Living Room Tapes” and “The Hit Man” reissued this month.

Small Face IAN MCLAGAN has his quintessentially English album “Best Of British” reissued this month on Gadfly which will make a great soundtrack for an old mods getting stuck into the great man’s recent autobiography.

Legendary Pub Rock / New wave act THE RUMOUR has a rich history, not only from their own releases, but also as a backing band for Graham Parker,
Elvis Costello, Desmond Dekker, Rachel Sweet, and others. "Purity of Essence" (Gadfly) was originally on the legendary Stiff Records and this reissue includes rare songs written by front man Graham Parker, Nick Lowe and Randy Newman.

Before Americana caught on as a phenomenon in the mid-'90s, the VOLEBEATS were hot on the trail of such seminal groups as Rank and File, The Long Ryders, Green On Red and Dream Syndicate who combined roots rock with a British invasion verve and a healthy dose of twang. Born in the Motor City in 1988, the Volebeats fused hardcore, country and folk music with a melodic pop flair and rock and roll sensibility, to great effect on their great debut album "Ain't No Joke"(Gadfly). It has been out of print for years and is now reissued on Burnside. A lost classic!

DER WEG EINER FREIHEIT was born with the release of the self titled and self produced debut album in 2009. Then with their first official release became Germany’s highest talented, intelligent Black Metal outfit. New EP "Agonie" (Viva Hate) is LTD to only 2000 copies and is to be followed with appearances at high profile European festivals, such as the renowned German Summer Breeze.

2009 saw the release of DISARMONIA MUNDI's fourth record entitled “The Isolation Game” (Coroner). This rare and sought after album is now unleashed again and is reissued with new artwork and four bonus tracks. Classic Death Metal!

Both White Metal fans and Lynyrd Skynyrd completists will be overjoyed to finally see a CD issue of “Streetfighter” (Born Twice) the lost third album from the Classic Rock legends VISION this month. This recording is arguably the bands strongest material, and includes the talents of Lynyrd Skynyrd piano player, Billy Powell.

It is tough for newer acts to sell records these days, so please lend your support to some deserving and hard working new British talent…

ZARBO are an amazing Americana (U.K. based) duo comprising of Andy Heath (Lead Voice, Guitars, Foot Drums, Kazoo, Harmonicas) and Paul Bishop (Banjo, Dobro, Foot percussion, Backing Vocals). The songs, all written by Andy, cover topics as diverse as loneliness, being healed by the hands of Elvis and working in a Supermarket. Their live shows are legendary affairs and even the most cursory listen to their new album "Zarbo" (Tune Records) will have you on the net seeking out their latest tour dates!

“Two is a Crowd” (Crash Records) is the new acoustic full length album by ISAACS AIRCRAFT. Not content with two top 30 Indie Singles, a spot at Camden Crawl, landing support slots with The Zutons and gaining radio airplay; The band has made
a great follow up album with a different take on some of their most popular tracks.

THE YU YA have a peerless, unique, but contemporary sound with the music, created by the Italian flair and musical craft of Eliseo Soardi, already drawing comparisons with Gogol Bordello and Beck, complimented with powerful lead vocals from the London born Constance Dalrymple, the like of which have not been heard since the days of classic female soul singers such as Etta James and Nina Simone. Don't believe us? Then check out their limited 7" "Naked" (Day Job) for proof!

LUNA KISS are Coventry’s finest export; The band's subtle and arguably cheeky time signatures, suspensions and sevenths and an inane desire to do nothing but please the ears of strangers has earnt them comparisons to both The Mars Volta and early Pink Floyd. Inquisitive Prog fans should check out their "Echoes Of Sound" (Ghoulish) album pronto.
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As SYSTEM FX hail from an Industrial scene dominated by laptops, their guitar-laced industrial is a refreshing change. With elements of Cubanate, Killing Joke and even The Prodigy in their sound, their uncompromisingly aggressive live shows have seen them win fans right across the UK as they have played alongside some of the EBM/Industrial scene's biggest names.

Thanks for dropping by and see you next month…

Code 7

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June is here and hopefully sunshine wont be too far behind. We all hope!

Don’t forget you can read more in depth material on all of these and many other fine Code 7 releases in our monthly magazine “Decoded” at www.code7decoded.com

Arriving too late for our May round up but still eminently worth a mention is the first release from Nashville based Folsom Records - The much anticipated split 7” from two of Punk Rock’s finest- RISE AGAINST and FACE TO FACE. The 7” documents the bands mutual admiration of each others work by featuring them reinventing each others songs. Rise Against covers “Blind” from F2F’s classic self titled album and Face to Face covers the anthemic “The Good Left Undone” from the Sufferer and the Witness album. The 7” is on limited edition coloured vinyl of randomly selected 4 colours. This only had one pressing worldwide so order up now – We are down to our last few already and once those have gone, they really are gone!!

LOSS are the most dominant funeral death doom metal band from the U.S. since Asunder and are likewise one of the most dominant forces in the funeral/death doom metal genre as a whole. Even though “Despond” (Profound Lore)
is their debut album, it has become one of the most anticipated doom metal albums in recent times. The band have amassed a reputable cult following of sorts within the doom metal scene (and the black metal scene likewise) having
released several splits with other elite cult underground bands (bands like Orthodox and Worship), several EP’s (most notably their “Life Without Hope…” EP), and having a reputation for blistering live shows. All of these factors have made this album one of Profound Lore's most anticipated albums yet...

Boston act MORNE are considered as one of the most prominent and important post-metal bands today by combining influences from traditional metal, crust, doom metal, and classic prog. The band feature guitarist/vocalist Jeff Hayward from legendary sludge band Grief. Nonetheless, Morne's style of post-sludge/crust is an interesting interpretation of everything that tends to fall within such a genre. While references to bands such as Neurosis and Isis are easy to pinpoint, Morne create their cinematic and epic vibe through unrelenting heaviness that is culminated from influences such as traditional heavy metal, doom metal, and classic rock, and create such an immense atmosphere also
through influences such as classic ‘70s prog, neo-classical chamber music, and classic post-punk/new wave (Joy Division, early Cure). As if to reinforce the band's slightly different take on the style their new album “Asylum” (Profound Lore) features guest appearances by Jarboe (Swans) and Kris Force (Amber Asylum). Check both the album and the band's extensive European tour this summer!

BIG SEXY NOISE follow up their vinyl mini album, released in summer of 2009, with a full blown LP album on Alone Records. The band, fronted by Lydia Lunch and Gallon Drunk members James Johnston, Terry Edwards and Ian
White, have recorded a further five Johnston/Lunch originals plus a Lynyrd Skynyrd cover to complement the original six tracks. Big Sexy Noise is the primeval bump, grind and holler of White’s thuggish drums, Johnston’s moronic low-tuned riffing and Edwards’ brutal organ and sax interventions led by Lunch’s take-no-prisoners vocals. The album opens with The Gospel Singer which Lunch wrote with Kim Gordon (Sonic Youth), followed by Lou Reed’s Kill Your Sons before settling into the trademark songs by Big Sexy Noise protagonists Johnston and Lunch. The LP release includes a fantastic DVD live performance with 5 tracks recorded at Le Batofar, Paris, on their 2010 European tour.

DAMO SUZUKI the legendary vocalist of the German band Can, and the Spanish band CUZO are releasing “Puedo ver Tu Mente” (Alone)
The album captures a gig that took place in November 2009 in the small town of Huesca. From here, the band and DAMO started a Spanish tour of 7 dates. On the album we have a single piece divided in three movements from where many songs could emerge but that dilutes any trace of structure and links the musical passages with undeniable perfection to other states of mind, sometimes more relaxed and other times more electric. The pause between tracks is no more than the required oxygen intake before making another dive on the listening experience. This is what Can called “Instant Composition” whereby each concert is unique and therefore is a unique opportunity to create a new sound work. That is what DAMO SUZUKI and CUZO made in their first gig together. A must listen for Can and adventurous Rock fans new and old.

Spanish Heavy Avant-Doom masters ORTHODOX fourth album "Baal" (Alone) is a back to the roots, a heavy metal album in the heavy tradition. And whilst it is a must for fans of acts like High on Fire, Ligeti and Bathory, it should also be noted that the band have been attracting the attention of leftfield taste makers like 'The Wire' who hailed the band thus “They were a metal band once, but they have become much bigger. At this point, everything they have in common with doom music or any other style of metal music is the sense of spirituality and their search of catharsis through rites".

Just in time for a (hopefully) Hot Summer we have some classic Reggae/Dub reissues from the Ariwa catalogue…

Leading the pack are nine classic albums from the MAD PROFESSOR all re-pressed on vinyl (as Dub should be heard!) Pick of the bunch is the 1981 classic Debut LP “Dub Me Crazy” that many of you will remember being played to death by the mighty John Peel upon its release. Also of note are the Prof’s collaborations with Yabby U “Yabby U Meets”, Jah Shaka “Jah Shaka Meets” and Lee Scratch Perry “Super Ape Inna Jungle”. Dub Classics one and all!

Also of note are two later U-ROY albums “Old School New Rules” and “True Born African” which belie the great man’s age with some brutal dub and beautiful roots reggae respectively.

On a historical tip the ARIWA SESSIONS 81 LP is a classic vinyl compilation being made available again featuring some great forgotten Dub talents such as Aquizm, Aisha and Ranking Ann.

Some lovely limited Vinyl for the Metal collectors next:

EYEHATEGOD do one goddamned thing and they do it well; craft slow, sludgy heroin caked beasts of riff that no one can deny. On the rarities and demo collection "Preaching The End Time Message" (Alone) they show that. From the early demo of "Methamphetamine" to the newly recorded "International Narcotic" you hear that EHG have let nothing stop them over the last 16 years and if ever there was truth in music, Eyehategod is bringing it! If you have not heard them (unlikely) THEN their heavy doom/hardcore/sludge blend is a must for fans of Black Flag, Iron Monkey and Black Sabbath. This is a special limited vinyl release on 180 gram vinyl in a stunning Gatefold Cover.

Last month's A STORM OF LIGHT album on Profound Lore has gone down really well and is now getting a vinyl release on Burning World. The strictly limited double vinyl comes in a beautiful gatefold cover. ASOL is comprised of members that have been involved in such acts as Neurosis and Battle Of Mice and features guest appearances by Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil, Jarboe (Swans) and Kris Force (Amber Asylum). As we noted when the cd was released this is a must for fans of bands such as Neurosis, Godflesh and Isis.

While there are some superb within the Black Metal sphere, (Anaal Nathrakh and early Cradle Of Filth spring to mind) British Black Metal does not have the best of names - It is difficult to imagine what more a single record could do to try and change that than WINTERFYLETH's "The Mercian Sphere" The cd released last month revealed a staggering opus of the highest accomplishment and you can now get your sticky mits on a limited double vinyl pressing on Burning World.

The Reissue Department is very busy again this month:

Firstly for your reading pleasure, the Second quarterly edition of SHINDIG is now available and a belter it is too, with features on the likes of Donovan,Electric Prunes, Lovin’ Spoonful, Kinks and Karl Ferris amongst others

WEST COAST POP ART EXPERIMENTAL BAND have a limited Double Vinyl version of their recent “Companion” title out this month. Given that the CD was one of our best selling reissues ever, we honestly not expect this lavishly packaged set to last very long – You know what to do!

HUMAN INSTINCT were the first and finest Psychedelic Guitar group form New Zealand. Their three classic albums “Stoned Guitar”, “Burning Up Years” and “Pins In It” get the full Sunbeam reissue treatment this month and as such are brimful of extra material and quality sleeve notes, rare pictures etc.

Third album "Follow The White Line" (Sireena) is the "rocker" in the SNOWBALL repertoire. The tracks on the album were written in a team and played live on stage in the studio in 1980. Unfortunately "Follow The White Line' also meant the end of Snowball and is the last in the band's series of Cd reissues.

HOLDE FEE's "Malaga" (Sireena) is a true rarity, never been released on CD before. The original album came in 1975, but this is the CD version with bonus tracks. The German band played in the mid seventies a virtuosic mix of jazz rock
and funk. “Malaga” was originally published by Phonogram, but the deal did not work. So, the band released the album on their own. This CD also contains the titles of their self-released single as a bonus.

On 21st May 2009 with ULI TREPTE died one of the most influential musicians of the German Kraut-, Avandgarde, jazz rock - scene. This CD will remember his remarkable work. .Uli was a founding member of the free jazz trio Irène Schweizer Group (1966-1967) and of the pioneering Krautrock group Guru Guru (1968-1972). Trepte played, among others, with the progressive bands NEU! and Faust. Apperaing on cd for the very first time "Portrait" (Sireena) features guest appearances from members of Amon Düül I, Henry Cow and Embryo amongst others.

On their fifth album “Minddrugs“ (Sireena) VIBRAVOID from Düsseldorf do not only crank up their amplifiers to insane maximum volumes but turn back clocks 40 years into the future/Past London of Syd Barret's Pink Floyd.
Vibravoid manage in their own unique way to capture the spirit of long lost Hippie and Psychedelic counter culture and transform it for the NOW without sounding outdated or dull!

In 1972, POOBAH released their debut album, Let Me In, to an unsuspecting rock crowd and, in time, the album has become a highly sought after, collectible piece of heavy rock history. Now, almost forty years later, POOBAH is “re-unleashing” the fuzzed-out, heavy rock classic in both deluxe double LP and CD editions. Like Leafhound on this side of the Atlantic Poobah are a gem just waiting to be rediscovered by fans of Blue Cheer, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple and early Judas Priest.

Banded together during the tumultuous years of the early 70’s, JPT SCARE BAND fused a sound equally heavy in hard rocking blues as it was tripped out in psychedelia, creating a sound so imposing that it perfectly reflected the emotions of the era. Hailed as one of the” lost pioneers of Heavy Metal” by Classic Rock Magazine, they have seen a resurgence of interest by fans of 1970’s heavy fuzzed out rock. And now JPT Scare Band released "Acid Blues is the White Man’s Burden" (Ripple) a collection of unreleased tracks, extended jams, and outstanding cover tunes that will help bridge the gaps of the JPT chronology and turn on a whole new generation to their classic version of acid-rock. A must for fans of Black Sabbath, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, Deep Purple, Sir Lord Baltimore, Dust, Leaf Hound and all Pysch/Acid Rock.

Staying in reissue territory but moving back into Heavier climes we find the aptly named LOUDNESS. The Japanese Metal pioneers have their first two classic albums “The Birthday Eve” and “Devil Soldier” (Krescendo) released on cd for the first time outside of Japan this month and they never sounded better!

Swedish instrumental quartet ANIMA MORTE plays music inspired by the classic Italian horror and giallo soundtracks made famous by Goblin, Fabio Frizzi, Ennio Morricone and many more. With their roots in classic progressive rock they make perfect use of Hammond organs, Mellotrons and Moogs to create a creepy and haunting atmosphere. New album "The Nightmare Becomes
Reality" (Transubstans) takes their 70's inspired progressive horror rock one step further. Highly recommended if you enjoy the music of horror movies past, but also classic prog acts such as King Crimson, ELP and Rick Wakeman.

PHARAOH was formed in 1997, quickly gaining an amazing success in virtue of their genuine love for Heavy Metal but also for the technical ability of their
members. Their new EP release "Ten Years" (Cruz Del Sur) features the skills of former Control Denied singer Tim Aymar and confirms their status as
a well oiled Heavy Metal force - The long awaited return of one of the most-appreciated US Metal bands of the last decade.

Don’t forget the Punks I hear you cry!

‘Salt The Lands’ (TNS) is debut full length album from High Wycombe’s BEAT THE RED LIGHT. This follows their debut release, an impressive 5 track
sell out, released in early 2010. Beat The Red Light push genre boundaries, mixing metal, ska and punk bundled together for an incredible live show.
‘Salt The Lands’ is another step up for the eight piece who continue to increase their loyal fan base with every tour. "Metallic ska punk" is a sound that's
to pull off but this works wonderfully. BTRL are regarded as one of the most exciting bands in the UK Punk/Ska/Metal scene and have captured
their live fury to a tee here. Highly recommended if you dug early Capdown or Voodoo Glow Skulls.

Cult LA punkers WHITE FLAG have released records on a multitude of labels in their 27 years together. The latest one is split album “Levitate The Listener” (Long Beach) which they share with young European Punk act VERSUS YOU. Both the veterans and youngsters do themselves proud on fifteen tracks of catchy Punk Rock – Now available as a Ltd Edition Vinyl LP to follow up last month's CD release.

"Small Pleasures" (Specialist Subject) is the debut album from Cornish punk rock trio BANGERS. Having spent the last couple of years touring relentlessly around the UK punk circuit, all over mainland Europe and releasing numerous limited vinyl records the band have finally found enough time to piece together their first full length effort. Ten tracks of raw, honest, and catchy "gruff-punk" in the vein of Off With Their Heads, Hot Water Music and Dillinger 4.Now
available as a Ltd Edition Vinyl LP to follow up last month's CD release.

P.A.U.L. are a great Electric Blues outfit whose "Tales from the Gravel" (EE Records) can be roughly described as "ZZ Top meeting Raw Funks meeting Led Zeppelin meeting the Blues" and will be supported by some heavy touring with kindred spirits Joanne Shaw Taylor and Walter Trout

And lastly but not least, don’t forget to support some real UK talent….

BURNING BEES is the latest project from Stuart Hobbs and Neil Grant whose previous excursions include Abacus Roolz, Liminal (with Teenage Fanclub and Mogwai’s Brendan O’hare) and Superstar (Creation Records). With names like those flying about you will hopefully agree their "Good Seed Bad Soil" (Apiary) album merits your undivided attention.

ORDER OF VOICES debut album has received amazing reviews from many respected print and online publications; ‘stunning’, ‘epic’,‘inspired’, ‘thrilling’ and ‘amazing’ are just some of the superlatives that have been used to describe the album. Their self-titled on their own label spreads itself nicely over a range of genres and moods while retaining an identity all of its own...For fans of genre defying acts like Tool, Soundgarden, Porcupine Tree and Opeth.

REV 78 is a four-piece band from Camden London that creates anthemic indie rock. Their debut album, Boy In The Blitz (Dayjob), demonstrates this in style, drawing from 80’s post punk influences in classic indie style. The high quality
packaging holds a band that lovers of The Smiths, Cure, Joy Division and The Killers will find most appealing.

LIPSHOCK were born from the ashes of the once-great Midlands rock scene, and they're carrying the torch for overblown, riff-based rock n' roll with the release of their debut album 'Grit 'n' Glitter' (Ghoulish). They've paid their dues playing in venues across the U.K for no money, now they've got the means to bring the sleaze to you. From Motley Crue inspired sleaze rock to stadium ready anthems; Lipshock have got all the bases covered.

Thanks for reading…See You Next Month!

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Hello and welcome to the highlights of our busy May schedule… Don’t forget you can read more in depth material on all of these and many other fine Code 7 releases in our monthly magazine “Decoded” at www.code7decoded.com

Ex Stampin Ground members ROMEO MUST DIE go straight for the jugular with an unrelenting intensity that you’d expect from the bands pedigree.
Their debut album “Hardships In Season” (Face Of A Cowboy) is bursting with infectious grooves, devastating hooky melodies and ferocious thrash riffage that will force you to your knees. The enormous production by Scott Atkins is the final blow to the head that brings this masterpiece of a debut into a league of its own. Romeo Must Die fans are eagerly anticipating the release of this debut Album with its 6 panel deluxe digipak packaging and Bonus Disc containing their previous EP “Defined By Enemies” which received rave reviews throughout the press in 2009. Quite simply one of the UK's strongest new Metal acts in years!

Josh Graham is an artist who has had many avenues where he has expressed his artistic vision. Whether it would be through the visual direction he’s involved with the band Neurosis, through his filmmaking (Graham has directed videos for Neurois, Dillinger Escape Plan and Isis), and through his graphic design work with the likes of Soundgarden. Musically Graham is currently in Neurosis but after two albums for Neurot Recordings, his other project A STORM OF LIGHT are preparing to unleash their third and most essential album yet, “The Valley Of Death Becomes Us, Our Silver Memories Fade” (Profound Lore) onto the world. The resulting album combines the sludge metal, doom metal, industrial, and post rock genres to create a thrilling piece of work that fans of Isis, Godflesh and Neurosis must hear. Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil laid down some of his signature guitar work on two tracks and the album also features guest appearances from Jarboe of the Swans.

Known for their devastating live shows, American duo DARK CASTLE are a touring machine that has hundreds of shows already under their belt
across the U.S. and Europe, and will be relentlessly touring likewise in support of their great new album “Surrender To All Life Beyond Form” (Profound Lore)
Dark Castle are known as one of the most unique bands in sludge/doom metal today, mainly because of the massive sounds they achieve with such minimalism and the stripped down elements they have at their disposal. This is one of the heaviest and most punishing albums of recent times and as if to emphasise this their new album features guest appearances from Mike Scheidt of Yob and Blake Judd of Nachtmystium amongst others. Uneasy listening to the max, this is an absolute must for fans of Yob, Neurosis, Sunn 0))) and Baroness.

CHRIS MURRAY is an elder statesman of the US Ska and Reggae music scene. After 20 years of continuous worldwide touring, Chris is a legend to anybody who has any interest in the genre. Born in Canada and now residing in LA, Chris was also the booker, promoter and star of the now infamous “Bluebeat Lounge” which ran at The Knitting Factory, LA for over 10 years!
Following a myriad of releases on different labels "Chris Murray And Friends" is an exclusive compilation chosen by UK label Rebel Alliance and is a must fan for fans of the authentic laidback Studio One/ Trojan Records vibe that acts like The Slackers and Aggrolites have been trying to recreate in recent years.

The third album from Norway's leading symphonic prog band WOBBLER is entitled "Rites At Dawn" (Termo) and is causing a massive buzz for those in the know. Classic prog influences (Gentle Giant, Yes, King Crimson, Genesis) are dished out with huge amounts of Mellotron, Moog, Hammond, Chamberlin and classic analogue keyboards as well as Rickenbacker bass, searing guitar leads, tight 70s drums and new vocalist Andreas Prestmo's soaring vocals to create a stellar and powerful sound. As close to the real 70's prog rock experience as
you will get in 2011!

Hailing from the Welsh capital of Cardiff, contemporary psych-rockers THE KEYS are back with their signature brand of cosmic flavour to release their first full-length album, ‘Bitten By Wolves’ (See Monkey Do Monkey). Having risen from the ashes of the much lauded Murray The Hump – who counted Alex James of Blur, Damien Hirst, Joe Strummer and John Peel sessions amongst their fans – The Keys are a band whose musical pedigree cannot be argued with. Drawing on a range of quality influences from Animal Collective, Captain Beefheart, Can, Spirit, The Black Keys, Frank Zappa, Panda Bear and Spiritualized, The Keys adeptly blend together the new and the old, sitting alongside the likes of Super Furry Animals, The Coral, Malachai, Tame Impala and The Bees. A great band poised to spring forth from their loyal Welsh fanbase and take over the rest of Britain.

In the mood for some serious classic Doom Metal? Then you will be pleased to know that ORCHID have returned to deliver an absolute masterpiece with 'Capricorn' (The Church Within) that should have the new wave of retro-rock acts like Witchcraft, The Devils Blood and Jex Thoth casting some seriously envious glances the band's way...Highly recommended by us.

MOMBU is the new voodoo creature of Luca T. MAi [Zu] and Antonio Zitarelli [Neo]. This sax and drums duo joins African rhythms with their jazz, hardcore and metal experience to create a new musical alchemy that would not sound out of place on the Ipecac or Relapse labels. One for the more adventurous of you out there!

Chicago's BIG'N, best known for 1996's "Discipline Through Sound" on Skin Graft and split releases with contemporaries Shellac and Oxes, are back. Brand new recordings are to be released this month as the "Spare the Horses" 10" (Africantape) Happily the bands new material does not compromise one iota and firmly cements the bands in the Chicago hall of noise fame alongside Shellac, Us Maple and The Jesus Lizard.

Baltimore act OXES are releasing a series of 12" records this year with new songs and new remix versions from artists like Cex, Jason Urick and MRC Riddims (Dalek). The first two "#1" and "#2" are available now courtesy of the Africantape label.

THE CESARIANS were born in Hackney, London. Their blistering new five track EP “I’m With God” (Africantape) moves from the brooding menace of “In Your House” to the orchestrated and opiated haze (and highs) of “I’m With God” in a virulent, viscious manner. Still with the band featuring ex members Of the mighty Penthouse and Gretschen Hofner I guess we all knew it was not going to be easy listening!

"The Truth Doesn't Matter" (Sleeping Star) was the final album recorded by NIKKI SUDDEN in March 2006 before his death. It is a most fitting
testament to the collision of boredom and bedlam that sparked Sudden's 30-year run, and a fitting reminder that his music from the early days of The Swell Maps
right up until the very end of his solo career will continue to inspire future rock and roll renegades long after he's gone. Listening to the album it becomes starkly
apparent why Nikki Sudden tops that long list of musicians whose obscurity is surpassed only by their influence…

'Magician' (Sunbeam) was recorded by ANDREW LEIGH after he left Spooky Tooth and before he joined Matthews Southern Comfort, this long-lost LP first appeared in the summer of 1970, and has barely been heard since. Recorded
in London in the late 60s, it boasts guest appearances from members of the Blossom Toes, Spooky Tooth, Fleur de Lys and Titus Groan, as well as cult figures such as Reg King, Gary Farr and Gordon Jackson. It makes its CD debut here, complete with rare photographs, a previously unheard bonus track and full notes from Mr Leigh himself.

SAL VALENTINO and John Blakely from Stoneground join forces once again to deliver "Dreamin' Man" (Burnside), Sal's most cohesive effort since the Beau Brummels’ 1968 album "Bradley's Barn". Sal’s vocals are as strong as ever as he works his way through this heartfelt collection of new songs. Love Song and Hwy 49 in particular are destined to become classics.

BATILLUS are a sludgy Metal four piece that slows monstrous early Sabbath riffs to a crawl to produce highly textured compositions of droning Doom on new album "Furnace" (Seventh Rule). The completed work is Doom Metal par excellence evoking memories of legends like Godflesh and Electric Wizard at their height.

Hailing from the rain and gloom of Portland, Oregon, Diesto create epic, dark, heavy rock. DIESTO’s fourth record, "High As The Sun" (Seventh Rule)
is a journey into the bands deeper psyche with clean spatial guitars coasting within a beautifully crafted song. It's a "desert record" with bleak
landscapes and themes of isolation - an alternative soundtrack to a Clint Eastwood Western epic made for fans of Kyuss, Unsane, Queens of the Stone Age.

Four years after the highly acclaimed "Wings Of Lead Over Dormant Seas", the French veterans of neurotic post hardcore, DIRGE, are back with "Elysian
Magnetic Fields" (Division). A brand new album composed of 8 pieces of art guiding you through a passageway between wonder and magnificence.
The cd has already made waves in post hardcore circles and is now available on double vinyl including an exclusive track only available on the LP version.

WEE WILLIE HARRIS is best remembered as the Fifties rocker who dyed his hair pink. He made a handful of belting rockers including the anthemic 'Rocking at the Two II's' and unlike most of the other Fifties rockers of the day, he embraced the whole 'Teddy Boy' image. Willie has been working solidly ever since, touring the world and making a living from showbiz. New album "Twenty Reasons To Be Cheerful" (Fury) showcases a talent that will surprise many, because Willie is more than just a 'shouter'. He can sing a good Country tune, and moan the Blues with the best of 'em! It's a great 'jive' record, and Willie handles it perfectly.

DARREL HIGHAM is a Cult singer/guitarist who sings in the style of Eddie Cochran. He also happens to be the husband of Imelda May. No surprise then that his new album "Let’s Rock Tonight" (Fury) is a belting collection of Fifties style rockabilly!

Stoner Metal is one genre that really must be heard on vinyl, and happy to oblige is the Fuzzorama label with deluxe vinyl versions of TRUCKFIGHTERS “Mania” ,which is an absolute must for Fu Manchu fans, and DEXTER JONES’
CIRCUS ORCHESTRA “If Light Can’t Save Us” isn’t strictly a stoner release but is still infused with healthy doses of seventies rock influences like early Blue Oyster Cult and ZZ Top.

Cult LA punkers WHITE FLAG have released records on a multitude of labels in their 27 years together. The latest one is split album “Levitate The Listener” (Long Beach) which they share with young European Punk act VERSUS YOU. Both the veterans and youngsters do themselves proud on fifteen tracks of catchy Punk Rock!

"Small Pleasures" (Specialist Subject) is the debut album from Cornish punk rock trio BANGERS. Having spent the last couple of years touring relentlessly around the UK punk circuit, all over mainland Europe and releasing numerous limited vinyl records the band have finally found enough time to piece together their first full length effort. Ten tracks of raw, honest, and catchy "gruff-punk" in the vein of Off With Their Heads, Hot Water Music and Dillinger 4

And as the totally loathsome “Britain’s Got Talent” returns to our screens, Please support some great UK acts who do actually have some!;

"The Organ Hearts" (Expect Candy) is the 3rd full-length album by ARMS AND SLEEPERS, following up on the recently released mini-album
“Nostalgia For The Absolute” and the first single, “Tusk” . Unlike Matador, the band's sophomore effort, the new record features significantly less guitar
and focuses more on electronics and drum-heavy compositions. Pulsing beats and driving synths replace the lush glockenspiels and melodicas of the previous album, while concise song structures and haunting melodies remain. Like Matador, the new record is intense, filled with varying textures and intricate layers, and unafraid to free itself of any genre constraints.

EPILEPTIC HILLBILLYS are a storming Psychobilly/Rock and Roll outfit from Sheffield whose debut album “Tales From The Underworld” (Western Star) captures the feel and intensity of the early Eighties “Klub Foot” scene of The Guana Batz et al

Fans of Frank Turner and the Alt Country/Punk scene could do allot worse than check out the OXYGEN THIEF album “Destroy It Yourself” (Josaka) which is jam packed with excellent folk flavoured Punk tunes.

ALTER RED has a style of their very own, mixing electronic beats and rhythms with avante garde piano and soaring vocals. With influences from Depeche Mode, David Bowie to Nine Inch Nails and IAMX, the end result is a unique melting-pot of sound and imagery. AlterRed has made an impressive impact on a wide variety of audiences, from the indie/electro crowds in London to the EBM/industrial crowds across the UK. check out debut album “Mind Forged Manacles” (Red Electric) to see what the fuss is about…

STONE CIRCLE from Brighton take influence from bands such as Opeth, Nevermore, Sikth, Morbid Angel, Katatonia, Porcupine Tree, Gojira, At The
Gates, The Ocean and Mastodon. Their debut album 'Myth' (Glasstone) is thoroughly recommended to fans of any of those esteemed bands, many
of whom may have already caught the band live with Entombed and Orange Goblin or even at last year's Bloodstock Festival.

See you next month!!!

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CODE 7 – WEBSITE INTRO – APRIL 2011.

Hello and welcome to the highlights of our busy April schedule… Don’t forget you can read more in depth material on  all of these and many other fine Code 7 releases in our monthly magazine “Decoded” at www.code7decoded.com .

In a Rock scene where you can hardly breathe for “Next Big Things” LOWER THAN ATLANTIS have a better claim for the rarefied air of success than most. With their second album “World Record” (A Wolf At Your Door) they are in great shape : A prolific assembly of colossal hooks and kinetically charged guitars loaded into larger than life songs that effortlessly thread a line between acerbic, punk infused rock and irresistible pop savvy. Switching from uplifting pop rock to razor sharp punk attack to soaring melancholy and back again once breaking stride or losing its way. The support from the Rock media is phenomenal and the band are always touring – Could this be their year?   

WE ARE KNUCKLE DRAGGER are a metal / punk / experimental trio from Newcastle. Featuring ex-members of Yourcodenameis:milo, Scrabo and Contraband. Their explosion onto the underground scene in late 2008 had them hailed them as kings and coupled with some heavy touring they have secured an army of followers. National media attention throughout 2010 has shown huge support for the band and has earned them comparisons to legendary acts like Converge and At The Drive In. Their 2011 schedule will see the band extensively tour, playing festivals and recording the anticipated debut album in Chicago with legendary producer Steve Albini. Before that monster is unleashed why not check out their new EP “ABCDEP“(Sapien) – You will be back for the full length album! 

It hasn’t taken long for Brooklyn, NY’s KRALLICE to gain notoriety. Initially formed because of a desired collaboration between notorious avant-garde shredder Mick Barr and technical guitar wizard Colin Marston, for both musicians to explore a more black metal terrain with their music, Krallice was originally supposed to be a one-off kind of sporadic project for both musicians to create an album, That thought would quell quickly enough as they immediately became a functioning band, playing shows along with their debut album garnering critical acclaim all across the world and immediately, becoming a unique act unlike anything the scene has thrown up before. And now with the band’s  third album “Diotima” (Profound Lore), Krallice have undoubtedly released their darkest, heaviest, most-dense, hypnotizing, challenging and accomplished album to date, solidifying the band as one of the most prominent and unique extreme metal bands and exports from America today.

Described as a “Performance Galaxy” by Vanity Fair and “Super hard, incredibly fast and overall inspiring” by Thrasher, JAPANTHER has always been a band apart, running the gamut from performance art to punk rock and back again. Pushing parties to the limit and only stopping short of riots, Japanther returns in 2011 with new member Anita Sparrows (The Soviettes) and stunning new album “Rock ‘n’ Roll Ice Cream” (Seayou). Inspiring stuff from the New York band who really capture the city’s frisson of spirit in the same manner as legends like Sonic Youth and Television have done in past eras.

After being released in the USA on Equal Vision and entering the Billboard Charts
it is fair to say that WE CAME AS ROMANS debut album "To Plant A Seed" (Redfield) captured the kid’s imagination last year. To celebrate both their US success and headlining slot on the current 'Scream It Like You Mean It' Tour the album is now being issued as a Deluxe Edition with CD + DVD! - The DVD has 38-minutes of exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, live performances from recent US tours, and the new music video for “To Move On Is To Grow”. If you haven’t heard them yet now is the perfect time to check out the band's unique sound which combines influences such as Underoath, Chiodos, The Devil Wears Prada and August Burns Red.

"Family Favourites" (Karate Body) is a vinyl LP collection of reworked old BIG EYES tunes, alongside some new material and also a cover version. The group started just over 10 years ago, so the decision was taken to reassess the back catalogue,
and rework/rearrange/rerecord some songs with the recent players to perhaps serve the pieces a little more fully. A ‘best-of’, if you will, or perhaps a retrospective from the Sheffield collective? You decide!

In the summer of 2010, US troubadour JAMES APOLLO released his British debut, ‘’Til Your Feet Bleed’. He now follows it less than 12 months later with ‘Born Lucky’ (Marterry Music)  a career-spanning compilation that ducks and weaves through his extensive back catalogue, stretching back over six prolific years.
Apollo’s music recalls Ennio Morricone’s spaghetti-western themes akin to fellow countrymen Giant Sand, all grizzled with a Tom Waitsian fervour, and the
lush, warming tones of Roy Orbison. ‘Born Lucky’ is a record that sweeps through the emotions, both fleeting and fundamental, that document the bittersweet,
cinematic legacy of both Apollo’s past, and his ongoing journey - Americana at its most romantically sunset-strewn and desolate. Expect lots of strong press support from No Depression, Mojo, Uncut, Americana UK etc.

Speaking of Americana, US imprint Burnside has excelled itself with some wonderful  releases this month…

DEAD ROCK WEST are Cindy Wasserman and  Frank Lee Drennen. For this stunning album the pair collected the old time spirituals of Blind Willie Johnson, the contemporary gospel of the Staple Singers, and a desperate plea by the Jesus & Mary Chain, plus six more songs of strength and hope, with the help of legendary producer Peter Case. Joining Dead Rock West were the voices of their talented mentors and friends—John Doe, Exene Cervenka (X) and Mark Olson (Jayhawks) – and the result sounds like some of the best hill stomping music you’ll hear west of Texarkana.

"That Old Southern Drag” (Burnside) is PATRICK SWEANY’s anticipated follow up to the 2007 Dan Auerbach-produced record “Every Hour Is A Dollar Gone”. Patrick has spent the past three years touring relentlessly both on his own and in support of artists such as The Black Keys and Hot Tuna. On “Southern Drag”, Sweany wraps his retro blues rock around vintage Southern soul, recalling folks like Nathaniel Mayer and Solomon Burke, while maintaining his scruffy indie edge.

KASEY ANDERSON’s fourth full-length album, Nowhere Nights, earned him widespread praise and comparisons to the likes of Steve Earle, Guy Clark, and Townes Van Zandt, but Anderson remained unsatisfied. Feeling boxed-in and determined to shake the ""Roots Rock"" tag, Anderson assembled his band, The Honkies, and recorded new album “Heart of a Dog” (Burnside) a swaggering set of unabashed Stones-y Rock 'N' Roll. From the sinister opening track, ""The Wrong Light,"" to the album's plaintive closer, ""For Anyone,"" Anderson and his band shed any prior evidence of ""twang"" and rock, as Anderson says, "without pretence or apology."

HOLCOMBE WALLER’s “Into The Dark Unknown” (Burnside) is the fourth release from this Portland based artist. Beyond performing solo and with his chamber folk ensemble, The Healers, Holcombe creates multidisciplinary work that combines video, music, and staging. He collaborates with dance and theater artists and recently composed the music for David Weissman’s film We Were Here, which premiered at The Sundance Film Festival 2011.  Waller’s presence will become apparent with a huge press presence to alert those who have been waiting for this latest indie neo-folk rock masterpiece.

PAUL OSCHER latest, Bet on the Blues (Burnside)  has already garnered him three nominations from the 2011 Blues Music Awards (WC Handy Awards) for Best Acoustic Album, Best Acoustic Artist and Best Instrumentalist. The album contains fifteen tracks of low-down blues, gospel and jazz from this former Muddy Waters Blues Band member and multiple Blues Music Award winner. This album is deep roots music played from the heart by a living master of the genre

Rather like buses…you wait ages for a decent hip hop record and then two turn up at once…

CYRUS MALACHI burst onto the Uk hip hop scene with his crew - Triple Darkness, releasing their 2008 debut album 'Anathema', now after numerous group and guest appearances Malachi releases his debut album "Ancient Future" (No Cure Records). The album is an epic twenty track opus. It features artists from both Wu Tang & Boot Camp Clik affiliates. Cyrus Malachi has long been considered one of the best up coming UK acts and this is highly recommended for fans of Wu-Tang Clan, Killarmy and Mobb Depp.

SIMS is part of the Hip Hop Collective known as Doomtree out of Minneapolis.
"Bad Time Zoo is the second full-length record from Sims and it's his best work to date -a culmination of his talents as an emcee, imaginative lyricist, and thoughtful commentator on American culture. As one critic raved "This is an envelope-pushing LP from a rapper with a strong flow and lyrical sense that rivals Atmosphere or Brother Ali for raw explosive exploration." – In short if you like intelligent hip hop then you need to buy this record!

Swedish Stoner / Doom merchants GRAVEYRAD are shortly to unleash their new album via Metal behemoth Nuclear Blast, so what better time to check out their first album “Graveyard” (Transubstans). Hear where it all began as the band seamlessly mesh Sabbath and Zeppelin influences into some stunning tunes to create this thrilling debut album which had all of Europe pricking up its ears. These are the LAST EVER COPIES of the original album so move fast!!!
 
Similarly influential on the Stoner/Doom scene are Canadian act SHEAVY who have their seventh and eighth albums, “Disfigurine” and “Golden Age Of Superheroes” made available in the UK for the first time via Dallas Tarr Records. Big chunky riffs, grooves and melodies to please even the most demanding Fu Manchu or Kyuss fan!  

The Reissue Department has it’s usual share of goodies this month:

Two original Sky Records releases appear on cd for the very first time. OCTOPUS was formed around extraordinary singer Jennifer Hensel and enjoyed a similar reputation as Beggars Opera or Camel . "Rubber Angel" and "An Ocean Of Rocks" are available in limited digipacks with extensive liner notes.

Sunbeam is delighted to announce this limited special edition of "Dreaming With Alice" by MARK FRY, one of the defining classics in the acid folk genre. Manufactured to the highest standards in a hand-numbered edition of 1000, it's pressed on 180g virgin vinyl and comes in a thick card sleeve with pasted slicks. Included is a 12-page full-colour booklet detailing the background to the album, illustrated with previously unseen memorabilia and rare, making it a true must for collectors.

MIGHTY BABY ’s second and final album "Jug Of Love" (Sunbeam) sank without trace on its original appearance in late 1971, but has gone on to become one of the best-loved recordings of its time, showcasing their fluid, expressive musicianship and the astonishing guitar playing of Martin Stone to glorious effect. Sunbeam is delighted to announce this limited special vinyl edition, which comes in a hand-numbered edition of 1000 copies. The thick card sleeve has pasted slicks, and
comes with a 12pp booklet packed with rare and previously unseen photographs, as well as memories from all five band members. An essential purchase for all collectors of West Coast-influenced folk and psychedelia!

Fans of the original New York Punk scene will instantly recognise the name SONNY VINCENT either from his time in the legendary ‘Testors’ or his myriad of solo projects down the years. Well now the CBGB scene veteran returns with stunning new album “Bizarro Hymns” (Still Unbeatable). As we have come to expect it has his trademark blistering Garage meets NYC 77 Punk sound and features special guests aplenty including Stooges man Scott Asheton playing drums on one track. Ltd to 1000 copies worldwide with free cd version of the album included.

Following up their recent successful Slough Feg and Atlantean Kodex albums the Cruz Del Sur label already has two more future Metal classics on their hands…

“Make it Dark” is TWISTED TOWER DIRE fifth full-length studio album. Straight from disc opener 'Mystera' and moving into second track 'Snow Leopard' you know this is destined to become a Classic Metal album. The sound revisits a traditional metal formula that evokes memories of US Metal legends like Kiss and Van Halen at their late Seventies peak- Superb!

Since releasing a self-recorded demo in early 2007, ARGUS have been roundly welcomed by the worldwide metal community. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2009 receiving much critical praise. The band continued to gain notoriety attracting like-minded fans word-wide who celebrate the genre and its core values of: hard work, discipline and integrity. Featuring the powerful voice of former Penance vocalist Butch Balich, Argus prepares to cement themselves within the metal archives with its sophomore effort, “Boldly Stride the Doomed”

Don’t forget the Punks!

"Collection" (Specialist Subject) is the debut CD release from Bristol 3 piece CAVES. Compiling tracks from their (now out of print) self-titled debut 7”, their 4 way split 10” with Calvinball, Pure Graft & Big City Plan alongside 2 new unreleased tracks. Caves play super catchy, raw, energetic pop punk taking influences from 90s punk and indie rock. With an unrelenting touring/work ethic and the songs to back it up the band have come a long way in a very short time. Catchy female fronted Punk that fans of Discount and Superchunk really cannot miss out on!

‘The Gentleman Bandits’ (TNS) is the second full length album from Manchester’s STAND OUT RIOT and follows last years split EP with Sense of Urgency and A Wa r Against Sound. Stand Out Riot continues to push the boundaries of Ska-core, brining in elements of folk, gypsy, salsa and metal. Boasting a 3-piece brass section, a violin player, and a highly unusual sound, they are sometimes described as Gogol Bordello having a rather steamy relationship with Streetlight Manifesto. Watch for them on tour with label mates Beat The Red Light this summer!

Debut album "Jibberjabber" (Bombed Out) from Leeds band ZAPIAIN follows their two self-released EPs and comes blazing out the gates with style. This is melodic, heart-on-sleeve and ever-so-slightly melancholic punk rock at its finest.
The band's sound brings to mind many vintage Crackle! Records acts and also the 'gruff- punk' legends that are Jawbreaker, Leatherface and Hot Water Music...

SOCIAL SUICIDE's debut album "Broken Pilgrims" (Redfield) has been hailed as some of the most promising post-hardcore seen in quite awhile. Already huge in their native Norway, Social Suicide were shortlisted for every major festival in the country last year, and will begin their first UK tour ever in April 2011 joining the “Through The Noise European Tour 2011” with Comeback Kid, The Ghost Inside, Kvelertak and Gravemaker.

THIEVES LIKE US are two Swedes and one American living in Berlin, Paris, and Milan. They are one of the only multi-nationals that won't exploit you. Mexicans love them. The French love them. Americans love them. The Japanese love them. Why? Because Thieves Like Us make pop music with a vintage electronic feel. Many times
it makes you dance. Other times it makes you feel strange and wonderful. Back in the day they probably would have signed a contract in blood with Factory Records. Check them out on the limited self titled vinyl LP (Seayou)

LOVE AND FIST was born and raised in the rural, rolling hills of Upper Austria. After four years in the making they are going to release their debut album "               " (Seayou Records) Their Music has a very rural touch to it, nonetheless it is heavily (almost Hollywood-like) orchestrated and full of mad arrangements. Scott Walker would be proud...

And please remember to support some deserving UK talent…

Cardiff's finest THE METHOD are fronted by a front man who is equal parts soul man, Northwest garage band shouter and cocky indie star. The band play horn laden ’60s music with the vicious energy of punk; think a riled young Tom Waits fighting with The Monkees. An odd description perhaps, but The Method genuinely play and you can also hear echoes of bands as individual as The Specials, Black Lips and Thee Vicars on their fine "Dissidents And Dancers" (See Monkey Do Monkey) album.

"Rave To The Grave" is the self released debut album from Leeds based CHINA SHOP BULL - This excellent album adds the bands name to that select band of UK acts that can criss cross the genres of everything from Punk to Drum and Bass - Think Dreadzone, Dub Pistols, Random Hand, Sonic Boom Six, Asian Dub Foundation, and King Blues.

DAMAGED GOODS is a band formed by producer, singer, songwriter, rapper and instrumentalist Brother B and co-conspirator G-Influence. A collision of industrial, metal, electronica and hip hop they pioneer a unique variation of the rock n' roll blueprint which is both musically and politically revolutionary. Imagine Public Enemy meets Nine Inch Nails and you'll be getting close, listen to "Barcode Crucifix" (Playskool Noise) and believe the hype!

See you next month!

Code 7
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Hello and welcome to our Release Highlights for March 2011, don’t forget to check out Decoded for more information on each of our releases this and every month.

RANDOM HAND are the hard working stalwarts of the UK punk scene. They played over 150 UK shows last year including major festivals such as Reading and Leeds, Slam Dunk and Rebellion as well as well received tour supports with the likes of Stung Out and Propaghandi. “Seething Is Believing” (Bomber) is their 3rd album and it shows a real progression away from the ska tinged punk to a more hardcore sound. The Rock/Punk press are set give this album huge recognition and the band will (of course) be supporting with a series of headline gigs and support slots with kindred spirits the King Blues and Less Than Jake this spring.

Salt Lake City female dominated doom rock band SUBROSA are back! Their music is comprised of supernatural down-tuned guitar and low-end bass, the dark air of two eerie violins, thunderous raw percussion, and female black magick vocals. To get a glimpse of the sound that Subrosa conjure, simply imagine a diabolical and haunting mix of the likes of PJ Harvey, Kyuss, and Coven filtered through the ghostly vibes of American gothic tragedy. “No Help For The Mighty Ones” is the band’s third album, and not only does it eclipse the band's previous two releases, it is easily the band’s heaviest, darkest, and most oppressive sounding album to date. With the American doom metal/rock scene gaining worldwide recognition right now, Subrosa are elevated to ranks of the finest acts within this genre right now
such as Jex Thoth, Yob, Witch Mountain, Amber Asylum, Worm Ouroboros, and The Gates Of Slumber. Superb stuff!

GRAYCEON is an atypical three-piece from San Francisco comprised of electric cello, guitar, drums, and vocals. Pulling together an extremely diverse range of musical influences and writing styles, Grayceon's sound defies the boundaries of
the metal/rock/progressive genres. Featuring at its helm, cellist vocalist Jackie Perez Gratz who has been known with her work with such bands as Amber Asylum, Neurosis and most recently Agalloch. New album "All We Destroy" (Profound Lore) takes pointers from pigeonhole defying acts such as Voi Vod and Agalloch and is a must for fans of doom metal, neo-classical, neo-folk and progressive metal/rock.

Winnipeg, Canada's KEN MODE play metallic noise rock with touches of post metal, hardcore, sludge and doom; a product of long, hard winters culminating in a sound that whips, pummels and lacerates its end users like a wicked Manitoba wind. The power trio bares only the essential ingredients necessary to deliver maximum impact and ne album "Venerable" (Profound Lore) is an exercise in efficiency and ferocity that put the band at the absolute pinnacle of noise rock and progressive hardcore Produced by none other than Converge's Kurt Ballou this landmark releases puts the band sitting at the same table as their influences like Unsane, Neurosis, Today Is The Day, Converge and Voivod.

"Live At Roadburn 2010" (Roadburn) is the first ever NACTHTMYSTIUM live release. Their limited vinyl release is the fifth instalment in the ever growing Live at Roadburn series after Wolves in the Throne Room, Church of Misery, Year of No
Light and Bong. The band's unique one off performance of Nachtmystium with members of Dutch powerhouses The Devil’s Blood and Astrosoniq at the 2010 Roadburn festival is captured on beautiful 180 gram vinyl, in an embossed sleeve, with liner notes by tour manager Cartel Brown and all in a sleeve design by Gnaw Their Tongues mastermind Mories. A beautiful piece for Black Metal collectors.

After being together for just a year, FRANCESQA self released debut E.P ‘We Lived’ to critical acclaim from the likes of Kerrang, and Rocksound. Tracks received major airplay on Kerrang TV, Scuzz TV and Lava TV as well as gaining the band a live session on XFM Radio. The band felt that the E.P hadn’t had a chance to enter the shops so have put together this very special re-release on the We Lived label. The cd contains brand new single ‘All I Had.’, the original E.P, a bonus acoustic track, one remix track AND a special DVD, filmed over the past month 3 months including studio and stunning live footage. As if to underline their potential the band have just won the Kerrang Best British Newcomer Readers poll...A band to watch!

"The 13 Dalis" (Burnside) is the lovely new album by PATRICK CAMPBELL LYONS of 1960’s psychedelic band Nirvana. Patrick is back with his first release in 15 years. A psychedelic masterpiece that was recorded in London, Spain and
Morocco and includes his Nirvana partner Alex Spyropolous on three of the tracks. Just like the classic Nirvana songs Rainbow Chaser and Pentecost Hotel The 13 Dali's picks up in that tradition featuring future Pych classics ‘Fallin’ and ‘A Prayer Before A Kiss’. This album originally snuck out before Xmas but is now being reissued on the back of strong press coverage from the likes of Mojo, Hotpress and Record Collector.

Another cult Sixties act the DOWNLINERS SECT are back with vinyl only album “Dangerous Ground” (Burnside). Blasting out of England in 1964 alongside the British R&B wave of acts like the Rolling Stones, the Yardbirds, the Kinks, and
the Pretty Things. However unlike many of those acts, the Sect stayed true to their rhythm and blues roots and the grungy glory of the two and a half minute record which may have seen them eluding a big pay day, but made them legends to a future
generation of worldwide acts like Mudhoney and Billy Childish. Half a century later, they're still true to those roots. The Sect survives, and we are thrilled to bring this album of tracks that only saw limited release in the nineties out again. Blues rock gets no more authentic, no more psychedelic, and no more unrepentant than the Downliners Sect.

"Quiet Girl" (Burnside) returns JUDE JOHNSTONE to the Americana flavour of her first two CDs Coming of Age, and On a Good Day. Jude’s songs have been covered by legendary musicians such as Johnny Cash, Bonnie Raitt and Emmylou Harris. Owing to her immense reputation, this new project attracted contributions from premier guest artists such as Emmylou Harris, John David Souther and Rodney Crowell. No unwarranted hype here, just a great collection of modern day Americana.

When modern day movie soundtracks are written about, it never takes long for any critic to name check the brilliant soundtrack to the legendary Coen Brothers “Oh Brother Where Art Thou” film. Guitar legend, Grammy winner and America's #1 purveyor of old time country music NORMAN BLAKE was responsible for two of it’s outstanding tracks ‘You Are My Sunshine’ and the instrumental version of ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’. Norman now returns with “Green Light On The Southern” (Burnside) seventeen selections of old fashioned southern string music featuring all new recordings of authentic old time songs and tunes performed with integrity and purity.

"Bring Em Down" (Rococo) is a jaw droppingly good two-song single from YOUNG BOYS a four-piece from Brooklyn, New York, who craft urgent pop songs drenched in reverby feedback that should make any fan of early Jesus and Mary Chain quiver in delight, as evidenced by the a-side howler, "Bring 'Em Down." But while there are many bands out there that merely worship at the feet of TJAMC, Young Boys are
not merely copyists. They do have a knack for placing the listener in that era, though. On the b-side, "Run Away May" they evoke the feel the early Psychedelic Furs. Already heavily name checked by the NME and limited to a pressing of just 500 Copies this has "future collectible" written all over it....

TRIUMPH OF LETHRGY SKINNED ALIVE TO DEATH feature ex members of the much loved and critically acclaimed acts Murder City Devils and Pretty Girls Make Graves. Their debut “Some Of Us Are In This Together” (Burnside) does both acts legacy’s proud - Spencer Moody (MCD) takes vocals whilst Andrea Zollo (PGMG) pounds the drums and also vocalises. Moody's chaotic intensity has not diminished, his laconic, informed words are splayed against scathing, scratching guitars and a rhythm section that resembles a distant, approaching thunderstorm.

The reissue department picks up the pace as 2011 steams along…

Few 60s artists have attracted such mystique or so devoted a cult following as THE WEST COAST POP ART EXPERIMENTAL BAND. Fascinating new compilation "Companion" (Sunbeam) draws together many of the rare recordings made by its members before, during and after their existence. Taking in pop, garage, folk-rock, psych, the avant-garde and more, the set highlights the disparate elements that fused to create their extraordinary and enigmatic music. The 29 rare tracks spanning 1960-71omes complete with rare pictures and a comprehensive note by the world’s leading WCPAEB authority, Tim Forster.

MIXED UP MINDS PART TWO (Other Side) continues the first volumes sorties into the deep and wondrous valleys of British pop music culture, daring to bring forth a collection of rare, overlooked and obscure singles that have so far eluded compilers worldwide, gleaned from the flamboyant underworld of British rock and adolescent pop of the late ’60s & early ’70s. Amongst the Psych gems exhumed are Sleepy, Stampede, Dave Morgan and Chancery...Just a taste of the twenty extremely rare recordings magically crafted, expertly curated and lovingly re-mastered!

THE CURIOSITY SHOP PART ONE (Other Side) Continuing where the Piccadilly Sunshine series left off, this exciting new series aims to illuminate and
celebrate not so much the scraps, but more importantly, the mistakenly overlooked and truly obscured artefacts of illustrious noise that emerged from the
British psychedelic era and beyond.

DIGGIN UP DOWN UNDER (Elastic Cat) presents 25 Wild & Demented R’n’B Winners & Bizarre Beat Losers from the ’60s down under! Culled from the archives of Dig The Fuzz, who initially unleashed their 16-track long player in 1999, this CD re-issue boasts 25 tracks from super-RARE singles, re-mastered and re-assembled with 9 bonus killer cuts!! Elastic Cat has prepared a feast of obscure and fanciful fare displaying symptoms of acid-surf dementia and amphetamine-fuelled mayhem brought to you by mods in kaftans from Australia, New Zealand and
Tasmania. All packaged up in a full colour 12-page booklet written by Dig The Fuzz's label founder. Featuring well researched liners on each artist, enhanced with rare photos.

Older Hard Rock and Blues enthusiasts out their will fondly remember the series of albums Canadian virtuoso PAT TRAVERS made in the late Seventies namely Pat Travers (1976), Makin Magic (1977),Putting It Straight (1977) and Heat In The Street (1978). Long regarded as classics of the genre, these fantastic albums belong in any discerning rock fans collection. Now available in one fantastic VFM box set "Four Play" (Majestic Rock) there has never been an easier way of getting your hands on the little beauties, so grab one whilst you can.

BLACK N BLUE’s "Collected" (Majestic Rock) is a Deluxe box set containing all four of the legendary US Hard Rock band’s studio albums plus a previously unreleased DVD of the band’s performance in Tokyo in November 1984 unavailable elsewhere. Also in the box are extensive sleeve notes by fan and respected rock writer Dave Reynolds.

Another American Heavy Rock legend from the Eighties, and still going strong today, were Y&T who this month have their classic live album “Open Fire” (Majestic Rock) made available again for the first time in many moons.

KING LIZARD are London’s new “Monsters Of Rock”. The band have been in the scene since 2002, since when they have been playing high-profile gigs, sold out the
London Underworld twice on their own night, Islington Academy, Hellfire Festival(2009), Bloodstock Festival(2008) and moving fast to the top. At a time when this genre is enjoying a real return, the King Lizard might just be the right band in the right city at the right time – capturing the moment when Hair Metal met Grunge
and produced a musical bastard child that made Guns N’ Roses so popular. Check out their debut album "Viva La Decadence" (Psycho De Vito) for proof!

Finally please take a browse at the low priced sale on the ‘Expect Candy’ label that is now running – You can pick up bargains from the likes of POLITE SLEEPER, AMANDA ROGERS and the excellent CHRIS LEO.

Thanks for taking the time to read this – See you all next month!

Code 7.

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Hello and welcome to the highlights of our February schedule…

Hotly tipped as the next big thing in the British Metal scene, THE DEFILED finally release their long anticipated debut album. “Grave Times” (Raise The Game) this month. As expected it comes out all guns blazing, and more than lives up to the hope and hype heaped upon the band by the Rock press. It will come as no surprise that the album is already assured lead rave reviews in Kerrang!, Metal Hammer and Rock Sound. Debut video “The Resurrectionists” meanwhile is receiving high rotation on Scuzz, Kerrang and Lava TV channels. The album as a whole is receiving heavy radio play on rock shows up and down the country. Having played high profile supports to the likes of Deathstars and Lacuna Coil as well as appearing at the last two Sonisphere festivals, the band's live profile is set to get even higher with the February support slot on the Murderdolls UK tour...In short UK metal heads are no strangers to The Defiled, and are eagerly anticipating the release of this debut - Do not be caught out without this release!

Erupting from the sleepy English town of Guildford towards the end of 2009, POLAR. have taken their devastating union of hardcore punk and rock ’n’ roll on the road leaving a lasting impression on audiences throughout the UK with their vicious and exhilarating live shows. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed earning the band a reputation as a ferocious live act with an ever increasing fan-base and their status as ‘ones to watch’ in 2011 was confirmed recently with a full page Kerrang! "Introducing" feature. If you crave raw and explosive tunes, then you do not want to miss the bands debut release "This Polar Noise" (A Wolf At Your Door)
which proves without doubt that Polar can translate the vitriolic intensity of their gigs (as witnessed on recent support slots with Gallows and Bring Me The Horizon) to the studio.

L.A Psych Rockers THE JIGSAW SEEN follow up their Grammy-nominated masterpiece Zenith, with their most ambitious effort yet, "Bananas Foster" (Burnside). Much of the album has an orchestral feel, while retaining the exciting and adventurous sound that can only be that of The Jigsaw Seen. The band's actual sound is hard to pinpoint but mix together some lovely three-part harmonies, some surging 1960s sounds derived from the Move, XTC and Zombies with the great power pop of L.A. peers like Redd Kross or Jellyfish and you will be somewhere in the right ball park. Not only is this release getting strong support from the like of Uncut and The Times, the extravagant packaging for the album is worth a mention of it's own including as it does a removable “Chiquita” style sticker, bananas foster recipe card, pop art mini poster and banana-scented sheet!.

Anyone with an interest in Post-hardcore / Epic Rock will know of THE OCEAN and their two critically acclaimed 2010 albums "Heliocentric" and "Anthropocentric". One year on the band's own Pelagic label is making them available as a 4 LP box set. The box comes with 2 gatefold covers and 4x 180 gram vinyl records containing both albums in full. The box itself is a whooping heavy 950 g and measures 32 x 32 x 4 cm. Each album is housed in gatefold covers, each with 3 revolving transparent & silver-/ goldfoiled and turntable PVC dials attached to the gatefold with a screw (the inner dial shows the sun / earth, the larger dial shows the orbits of the planets revolving around the sun / Earth the outer dial shows the zodiacs.). Once inside the gatefolds you will find 4 x 180 g vinyls, with the D-sides of each album having an
engraving of special artwork by Martin Kvamme. And to finish 9 cards with images by de Hollanda and lyrics on backside (Heliocentric); gold-printed inlay sheet with lyrics and star-map (Anthropocentric).

EARTHSHIP was launched by former The Ocean drummer Jan Oberg this year with his colleagues Dennis Boettcher on drums and Bastian Gutschke on bass guitar. The Ocean main man Robin Staps joined the band on second guitars shortly afterwards. "Exit Eden" (Pelagic) is the debut release by this Berlin-based behemoth, it is the grim, ugly soundtrack to a rough and dangerous passage through dark,
icy waters. Board the Earthship for a ride through the vast black sea of doom, metal and prog n'roll. For fans of pigeonhole defying heavy acts like Crowbar, Mastodon, Iron Monkey and The Ocean....

ABRAHAM was formed under the name "Le Baron Vampire" in Lausanne, Switzerland in 2007 by Kruger guitar player Jacques Vierdaz and a few mates from uni. The band later changed their name to Abraham and has played lots of
devastating live shows since. Now finally captured on audio abrasiveness is the word here: Debut album "An Eye On The Universe" (Pelagic) will wash over you like a sudden cloudburst in the desert and make you feel like jagged rock exposed to the elements. Anyone who loves Cult Of Luna will love this album!

"Black Rainbow" (Africantape) is AUCAN's third release. It's both innovative in its sound and musical approach. Aucan unify a live rock band attitude with the most innovative electronic productions sound, making both their record and their live set
something unique. Spacing from modern dub step and wonky broken riffs to dead ambient landscapes, this is a record that guides the listener into a multi textured
sound experience. Digital processed vocals draw intense melodies over the tracks, using dark-psychedelic harmonies as well as rap influenced styles. Highly recommended for fans of Aphex Twin, Massive Attack, Radiohead, Brian Eno and VEX'd.

If you missed the noise juggernaut the first time around, BIG'N, were one of the most important acts in the Chicago Underground scene of the early nineties alongside legends like The Jesus Lizard and Shellac. All their records were on Skin Graft Records and were recorded by Steve Albini. "Dying Breed" (Africantape) is a collection of singles and unreleased songs spanning from 1990-1995. Included are all of the songs from the early 7-inches, pulled from their original master tapes and remastered along with outtakes from those sessions and demo versions of album songs. Legendary stuff!

The reissue department picks up steam this month…

As Japan began to turn out it's own Western influenced bands something was lost in translation that allowed it to mutate well beyond its original remit. LES RALLIZES DENUDES subsequently took rock music at its word while envisioning it as both unnecessarily complicated and too stupid by far. In doing so they formulated an inspirational blueprint that would go on to have a marked effect on everything that came after them in Japanese underground music. "Great White Wonder" (Phoenix) is a numbered, limited edition 4CD box set complete with a booklet of liner notes that as a whole captures this never to be repeated point in musical history perfectly.

Turn off you mind, relax and float downstream with "ELECTRIC SITAR PSYCHEDELIC HEAD SWIRLERS" (Past And Present) is a deluxe 5-CD compilation of Eastern-tinged rock, pop and folk from the hippie heyday of the late 60s and early 70s. Featuring acts from both sides of the Atlantic, as well as India, Germany, Sweden, Holland, Australia and elsewhere, the package comes complete with a packed booklet offering background information and rare pictures of the artists represented, making the set an essential trip back to psychedelia’s incense-shrouded golden age. These legendary psychedelic compilations are a Numbered limited edition and are available as a boxed set of five CDs for the first time ever.

MOTT THE HOOPLE – “Live In Sweden 1971” (Sireena) LP has never been released on vinyl before and is now newly re mastered from the original master tapes These recordings were taken from the collection of bassist Overend Watts and capture the uncut second half of their 1971 concert in Stockholm - The first half of the concert is unfortunately missing, but this is an amazing document none the less.

Also available from Sireena is their latest budget priced compilation “SPIRIT OF SIREENA VOLUME FIVE” which features reissued gems from artists like Stone The Crows, Mott The Hoople, Grobschnitt and Gillan selected from the labels’ catalogue and made available at a budget price.

Back on the heavier side of things the Svart label has made some highly sought after Metal classics available as handsome vinyl reissues this month…

Having only previously been available on vinyl 17 years ago for a brief time, a proper analogue reissue of the starting point of KATATONIA 's career has been in high demand. The 'Dance of December Souls' double vinyl (Svart) includes both that original album and the 'Jhva Elohim Meth' mini album, with all music carefully remastered for vinyl, resulting in sound that's much more dynamic and far less compressed than what the CD version has to offer. This is cold, analogue Northern metal at its absolute finest. All packaged in a thick, laminated gatefold jacket with printed inner bags - Available for a limited time only!

One of the most important black metal bands of the early 90s was Finland's BEHERIT, who have become trendsetters and cult icons in the scene. After laying dormant for several years, they have returned with the album "Engram". The Cd version is available from Spinefarm UK; the limited edition vinyl is handled by Svart Records. Packaged in a Thick, glossy gatefold jacket and printed inner bag. Printed on 140 gram colored vinyl and available for a limited time only - Be quick!

PENTAGRAM The original Peaceville edition of "Be Forewarned" has long been one of the most difficult latter day Pentagram items to track down on wax, as only 500 copies were pressed. Svart Records now offer 700 more copies to the hungry masses. The double LP now includes all lyrics, a gatefold sleeve and new liner notes.

HEXVESSEL is the work of Mathew "Kvohst" McNerney. Debut album "Dawnbreaker" (Svart) is a an amalgamation of his influences drawn from years singing for Black Metal bands, 60s Canterbury Folk and Negro Spiritual Church hymns mixed with themes of the occult, Crowleyan magick and Haitian voodoo. Otherworldly folk, with an uncanny, haunting resonance. For admirers of Midlake, Comus, Wovenhand, Espers and Changes. Packaged in a beautiful eco-pack with 16 page booklet, featuring original artwork from Albert Witchfinder and the album is also available as a limited edition Vinyl LP.

“NO WAY OUT! – VOLUME ONE" (Dead By Mono) is a superb compilation of the 20 Finest Far-Out Unknown Garage Punk Blues Surf Pop Psychedelic Gems From ‘Round the World” today. All 20 acts have the perfect blend of twangy and fuzzy guitar, pop melodies and sixties harmonies turned into a brand new frantic sound. Sure at this point you may not have heard of Spain's 'The Smoggers', France's 'The Belmondos' or the UK's very own 'The Leans' or 'Go Go Kult' but anyone who has grooved to the Nuggets and Pebbles compilations, The Hives, Rocket From the Crypt,
Gun Club, The Horrors, The Clash, The Cramps and the mighty Link Wray will find allot of new music to love right here!

SPIDERS from Sweden release their debut record "Spiders" (Crusher) on 10"inch vinyl this month. With female lead singer and members from bands like Witchcraft,
Graveyard and Madamm you know you’re in for a treat. Mixing garage punk and early hard rock with bluesy melodies, this is nothing new but is a masterpiece
of Kick Ass Rock And Roll!

Following the highly successful initial CD release, Transcendental Creations is glad to offer fans a limited edition double vinyl version of "Opportunistic Thieves of Spring" by A FOREST OF STARS. This double vinyl offers fans a unique collector’s item:
a gatefold, colored double-vinyl including 7 12x12 cardboard inserts. The band have signed to Prophecy Productions for up coming albums, which will guarantee them even better media coverage in the future...Though chances are if your taste extends
to the likes of Ved Buens Ende, Deathspell Omega, Blut aus Nord, God Speed You! Black Emperor and Arcturus you will already know of The Forest's excellence!

Philadelphia, PA's TOTAL FUCKING DESTRUCTION is an eccentric grindcore band founded by drummer Rich Hoak in 1999, shortly after departing his former band, legendary grinders Brutal Truth. This is their third album and will be supported by some heavy European touring this summer including France's Hellfest and the
Obscene Extreme Fest in the Czech Republic. Grindcore at it’s best!

Versions Of Hell" (Armalyte) is CONCRETE LUNG's debut album following on from their critically acclaimed ‘Waste Of Flesh’ EP, 2010 was a fantastic year for Concrete Lung – high profile support slots with influential peers Front Line Assembly, The Young Gods, Leather Strip along with a slot on the Infest bill,, have cemented the band’s reputation as one of the most fearsome bands on the industrial/alternative scene. This excellent album not only invites comparisons to such legendary acts as Godflesh, Skinny Puppy and Ministry but also comes as a limited edition ‘Concrete’ digipack of just 500 copies.

The debut album from York’s DIGICORE "Without Freedom" (Armalyte) is an exciting, manic hybrid of The Exploited, Atari Teenage Riot and Mindless Self-Indulgence. Digicore appeal to a broad spectrum of music lovers/styles – Punk, Metal, Drum n Bass, Industrial and Alternative – and with the country in political and social chaos, Digicore's message of direct action and unity, could not be more unifying.

And lastly don’t forget to help beat the recession by Buying British…

COUSTI – Scottish Alt Country exponents who have received critical acclaim in their homeland for some time now and whose “Strings To Tracks” (Pet Lamb) debut is now being picked up for praise by scene stalwarts from further afield such as No Depression and Maverick magazines.

ARMS AND SLEEPERS vary configurations of rich, brassy textures, choppy beats and ethereal vocals to make up an overall yield that is a fascinating blend of Boards Of Canada, Sigur Ros and Portishead. "Black Paris 86" (Expect Candy) is a repress of their out of print debut album and is totally essential!

ILLUMINATUS are one Spaniard, one German, one Italian and one English gent. They deal in expansive soundscapes, razor-sharp dynamics and no-nonsense melodic
song-writing. For illuminatus there exists no scene; no bandwagon; no fashion war. The hard hitting sound of new album 'Glasnost' (Headroom) and gigs with the
likes of Breed 77 and Susperia has already gained the attention of the UK and European music press...

SSSSNAKES are straight out of Swansea and feature members of local heroes The Arteries. “Kissss Thissss” (Specialist Subject) is a limited Vinyl LP and is a sterling piece of old school Skate Punk fun recalling the glory days of The Descendents and The Dead Milkmen.

KILL EM DEAD COWBOY are a metalcore band from Portsmouth UK, formed in late 2008. “I Am Salvation” (Lockjaw) is their excellent debut album and is highly recommended to fans of acts like August Burns Red and Atreyu.

A band with an eight and a half year history LAUGHING IN THE FACE OF has spent their time honing their craft into the amazing mix of punk rock and metal riffing they have today. “The Lubrication Of…” (Lockjaw) is complex, heavy and sometimes beautiful music. Taking influence from bands like Strung Out and A Wilhelm Scream they play a progression of punk rock that is usually fast and often
technical in parts. Full of hooks and technical aptitude this album is not one to be missed.

Thanks for taking the time to pop by…See you next month!

Code 7.

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Hello and a big happy new year to all our readers…

What better way to start the New Year than a new release from the mighty Profound Lore label? MITOCHONDRION follow-up their “Archaeaeon” classic, with “Parasignosis”, and the album takes the band's sound even further into the otherworldly depths like no other death metal band in North America can even parallel (both musically and lyrically). The eleven tracks all seam together to create one massive and epic death metal invocation sets new standards within the genre. A must for fans of legendary bands such as Portal and Immolation. Along with cult bands such as Conqueror and Revenge, this mob are signalling the future of where death metal is creatively headed into the new decade...

Speaking of great labels Deranged have a new batch of releases for the new year!

GIVE - "Boots Of Faith" - (Deranged) - DC’s Give offer up two more excellent mid period Dischord 'revolution summer' influenced jams. With a 12” and another 7”
under their belt, these songs might just be their strongest to date. Recorded at Inner Ear studio (where else!) and highly recommended for fans of Swiz, Rites Of Spring, and Grey Matter...

NOMOS - "Notes From The Acheron" - (Deranged) - Follow-up to their highly praised demo, NOMOS return with a one-side 12” with an etched B-side. Six new rippers influenced equally by early 80's rippers like Poison Idea, Void, and Antidote and early 90's hardcore such as Citizen's Arrest.

CULO - "Military Trend" - (Deranged) - The 2nd 7” from Illinois’ CULO delivers a mean whooping of Midwest hardcore punk. Nothing complicated – just well
executed 80’s influenced American hardcore that just happens to be truly excellent.

MARVELOUS DARLINGS - "Live at Gales" - (Deranged) - Excellent sound quality and great live energy captured on this limited vinyl LP pressing of 500 copies. It features 9 songs includes all their stand out. Ben from the band also plays in the mighty Fucked Up!

NO CLASS - "Keine Klasse" - (Deranged) - Ten and a half tracks of foot stomping, knuckle dragging, Midwest hardcore, entirely apathetic to your personal feelings...”No Class!” as Lemmy once howled…

The fifth and final BRUTAL KNIGHTS 12” "Blown 2 Completion" delivers their fastest and possibly their most retarded album to date. As with previous records, the influences at play involve a mix bag of stupidity, juvenile humour, bad television, terrible food, imbalanced hormones, and believe it or not, some great hardcore punk. It’s their fastest and best record, but if you didn’t get the humour or cared for what they were doing before, good luck with this one!

BLACK LUNGS - "Valley Of The Dolls" - (Deranged) - 7” featuring 2 new songs from Wade MacNeil of Alexisonfire fame. Sounds nothing like his debut album or
Alexsonfire which will please some and disappoint others; Just a real catchy punk sound with a good doze of aggro.

Reggae aficionados will instantly recognise the name ROY ELLIS and the man known throughout the world as “Mr Symarip” is back with a stonking new album.
You read correctly, having now sold over 7.000.000 copies of his classic ‘Skinhead Moonstomp’ since it’s releases on Trojan in 1969, one of Reggae’s last standing originators is back with Twelve new hot shots of reggae, rocksteady, soul and ska
on his great new album “The Boss Is Back” (Liquidator). An absolute must for Reggae/Ska fans both old and new!

The Reissue department hits the ground running with a batch of beautiful Vinyl reissues…

Texas was home to a large number of fine Garage, Psych and Punk bands in the Sixties many who are collected together on the “TEXAS FLASHBACKS VOLUME 2” (Past And Present) LP. Not only does it contain 16 awesome tracks from the likes of The Esquires and Warlocks but the hand numbered, limited edition is pressed on 180g virgin vinyl and also contains a full-coloured insert with the original CD liner notes.

Named in honour of John Peel’s 1967 late-night programme on pirate radio station Radio London, "THE PERFUMED GARDEN VOLUME ONE" (Past And Present) is a recognised classic compilation of full-on UK garage rock and psychedelia. Now available in its original vinyl form again these 17 awesome tracks are pressed on a Limited Edition, Hand Numbered 180g virgin vinyl. Complete with a full-coloured insert with the original CD liner notes…

“ACID DREAMS” (Past And Present) is a legendary ‘70s selection of ‘60s hard guitar psych, compiled by the owner of a record shop in Berlin, which too often has been reissued on CD with the wrong track listing and non-existent liner notes. So we are pleased to make this important compilation available again as a deluxe 180g vinyl limited edition with a full-coloured insert and the original CD liner notes. Acid Dreams proved that punk rock was not a new thing; check out White Light’s "William" or the Music Machine's "You'll Love Me Again" for proof!

The little-known “PICCADILLY SUNSHINE” series, took the wide-eyed Sixties aficionado into the deep and wondrous valleys of British Pop music culture. Daring to bring forth the once overlooked and sadly neglected songs that were laid to waste in a saturated wonderland of suburban teenage pop, these compilations rediscover twenty flower-powered trippers on Volume One (Past And Present). Pressed as a limited edition hand numbered 180g virgin vinyl LP edition…

Originals of 1973 album "Makeup" (Phoenix) by FLOWER TRAVELLIN' BAND fetch hundreds of dollars in the collectors market. However, despite the original’s lavish packaging, Makeup did little to enhance the group’s already considerable reputation and the various band members went their separate ways immediately after the album’s release. Now hear it in all its glory on this ltd Numbered Double CD in deluxe gatefold sleeve with the original LP insert.

SHINKI CHEN was one of the leading figures of the Japanese psychedelic rock scene in the early 70s, seen as a Jimi Hendrix type figure in Japan at the time; the last recorded material consists of this self titled album (Phoenix). Whilst the band's style is often compared to their Krautrock cousins, it does not have the bore factor of some of the lighter-weight progressive rock acts. Numbered, limited edition CD and LP
reissue.

Another lost gem for lovers of Japanese psych and hard rock is “When The Raven Comes To The Earth" (Phoenix) from inspirational ‘70s prog outfit, STRAWBERRY PATH. From its extremely cool front cover to the last track, this is an album that will appeal to Garage fans, Psych heads, and Acid freaks alike, merging as it does a variety of Western influences, ranging from Jimi Hendrix (check out
Shigeru Narumo’s hard psych guitar) to Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. Available only as an Ltd all-analogue LP pressing in gatefold sleeve and pressed on 180g virgin vinyl.

As always Sixties and Seventies collectors must pick up a copy of the latest SHINDIG! magazine. Issue 20 has features on The Soft Machine, Patrick Campbell Lyons and Cat Stevens amongst all the usual news and reviews

A caustic portrait of crumbling urban decay, enigmatic splicer’s of extremity DISIPLIN return with the highly anticipated "Radikale Randgruppe" (ATMF). Led, as always, by the twisted genius of main man Weltenfeind, Disiplin here mesmerizingly mash up radiation-sick black metal, industrial-strength sheets of sound, and the darkest dub dragged through the gutter. The result? This truly
radical album: a disturbingly dense, multi-layered, and sinisterly hypnotic journey into a netherworld both primitive and premonitory...No less than you would expect from an act featuring ex-Dissection and Myrksgog members!

Cult label Rococo has some fine leftfield releases this month;

TYLER JOHN TYLER - "Separate Issue" - (Rococo) Second 7" single from TJT. Their efficient and up front approach to two-minute punk songs tears open the
jangly pop of an excited youth to reveal the subtly sad and sorry garage-rock guts within adding a cheery feeling that spans from late 70's era Euro pop through TO 90's K Records style lo-fi.

EL VICIO - "Longanisse" - (Rococo) Straight from the French garage underground, El Vicio's gritty hooks are reminiscent of a younger and angrier Roky Erickson. The a-side is timetraveling garage-punk via The Cramps and is backed with a mid-tempo tune that sounds closer to a psychotic Serge Gainsbourg. Beautiful!

RED MASS - "Split Brain Experiment" - (Rococo) - On this limited 10” Montreal act Red Mass create dark, driving, and repetitive apocalypse-punk; the sound
and vocals range from the low preach of Bad Seeds-era Nick Cave to the severe rants of Fear's Lee Ving, all bound and gagged with acidic guitar solos revived from Eddie Hazel. Bizarrely they were Rolling Stone Magazine Band of the week during October 2010.

DISAPPEARS -"Live over the Rainbo" - (Rococo) - LP of a band who draw on a combined reverence for reverb, heavy tremolo, delay and repetition, Disappears play minimal rock music inspired by everything from Krautrock to The Staples Singers to punk to CCR. A great live act who have spent time supporting kindred spirits such as Wire, Cluster, Deerhunter, Black Angels and Obits during 2008/2009. Pressed on limited “Rainbow” colored vinyl and limited to 500 copies.

LAS NURSES - "You’re So Pretty" - (Rococo) - LP from a Spanish act have often been hailed as "Spain's answer to the A-Frames" ; the energy that comes off Las Nurses is similarly aggressive but exciting, sharp yet savage.

TORTURING NURSE / VERTONEN - "Split" - (Rococo) - An experimental / noise worldwide collaboration ltd to 100 LP copies. Chinese act Torturing Nurse—armed with turntable, voice, and guitar—create a mobius strip of crashing, clanging, shrieking, and feedback-laden hysteria on side one. Whilst American's Vertonen side presents dark electronica; thick drone built and destructive noise shrapnel

A couple of strong British newcomers to finish with...

Since their inception in mid-2007, Nottingham based NG26 have worked tirelessly in establishing themselves as genuine contenders at the forefront of the newly resurgent UK underground metal scene. The 4–piece band (formed by two sets of brothers) have spent the last 3 years relentlessly touring the width and breath of the country, racking up some serious miles supporting the likes of Kill 2 This and Cyclefly. Debut album “Open Your Mind" (Holier Than Thou) is certainly one of the best Rock debuts we have heard in recent times.

BE MY ENEMY is a new project from guitarist and producer Phil Barry – one half of legendary British industrial duo Cubanate. Between 1992-1998 Cbanate released 4 albums, and toured with bands such as Fear Factory and Rammstein. Their best known song “Oxyacetylene” was also used as the theme music of Playstation game “Gran Turismo” in 1998. For his new act's debut album 'This Is The New Wave' (Black Rain) Barry has returned to the Cubanate sound of heavy guitar riffs, hard breakbeats and rave synth bass lines. As a whole the sound evokes the finest moments of other punk-influenced British dance/rock crossover acts like Pitchshifter and The Prodigy. Great stuff!

Thanks for popping by – See you next month!

Code 7.

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Welcome to this, the last despatch from the front lines for 2010. Check out our December releases below but don’t forget to check out Decoded for more in depth info on all Code 7 releases for the chilly December ahead. All Code 7 titles are available from all good record stores through the UK so happy hunting and ordering.

A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you All………..

Nearly thirty years on from their astonishing debut album and KILLING JOKE are still astounding their rabid fans and critics alike with stunning new work. This year’s “Absolute Dissent” album was no exception and is already appearing high up in many Best Of Year polls. We are proud to be distributing two limited vinyl versions of the album courtesy of our friends at the Svart label. The first format is a double LP which comes on 180 gram virgin vinyl, with all the music re-mastered for vinyl fidelity. This first vinyl edition comes packaged in an extra-thick vintage style gatefold cover with thick printed full colour inner bags. The second format is a boxed double LP comes that also comes on the mastered 180 gram virgin vinyl, and is pressed on transparent Orange coloured vinyl. The boxed edition also has extra-thick vintage style gatefold cover and thick printed full colour inner bags but is completed with a heavy coated slipcase and a printed slip-mat. Please note both these vinyl sets will not be repressed, both formats are genuinely limited and will need to be pre-ordered!

Chicago’s PELICAN is celebrating their 10 years anniversary this month with a huge 10xLP Box of their entire discography. The “Pelican Wooden Box” (Viva Hate) contains the following albums on 180g vinyl: What We All Come To Need
, Ephemeral, City Of Echoes, March Into The Sea, The Fire In Our Throats, Australasia and Untitled. Pelican is one of the biggest and most influential Post Rock and Instrumental bands and have recorded for both the legendary Hydra Head and Southern Lord labels. As such this wooden box (limited to only 500 hand
Numbered copies) will need to be pre-ordered or it will be gone forever!

Self proclaimed "reggae band living in the punk scene" THE SKINTS have been winning them over up and down the country with their mix of dirty roots reggae and youthful punk rock spirit for some time now. The band bridges the gap between early UK reggae classics (think Steel Pulse’s ‘Handsworth Revolution’) and the contemporary, conscious street-sounds of The King Blues and Sonic Boom Six. Their dub-soaked tales on the options and outlook of London youth are the real deal. Stirring debut album "Live Breathe Build Believe" coupled with a heavy UK tour schedule (both on their own and with kindred US spirits Gogol Bordello and Less Than Jake), has earned the band a huge loyal following who will be flocking to the stores for a copy of their limited edition "Up Against The Wall" 7" (Seven Inch). The single is a Limited Edition picture disc, with only 500 copies pressed. Both tracks are exclusive to this 7” single and are not available on the bands’ debut album. You know what to do!

BONG are a psychedelic trance metal outfit from Newcastle, England; Aside from a magnificent full length LP, most of Bong’s output has been generated by bootleg recordings of their rare live shows. Nonetheless, Bong always provides enough pulsating atmosphere and crushing doom to make every recording worthwhile. Now their truly demented sonic live pounding finds an official outlet being captured live and loud, trancing out to two side long ragas, at the Roadburn festival in Tilburg,
Germany during April 2010. Just order the "Live At Roadburn 2009" (Roadburn) cd to experience some crushing psychedelic doom of the finest order!

Female fronted psych-doomsters ALUNAH have spent the last four years relentlessly touring and gigging all over the country, including dates with such bands as Paradise Lost, Trouble, Witchcraft, Nebula and Roadsaw. Previous releases by Alunah include the "Fall to Earth" EP on Catacomb Records and Nasoni Records 10” and also the "Song of the Sun" split 7" vinyl with Queen Elephantine. Their debut album "Call Of Avernus" (Catacomb) is a fix of psychedelic blues doom with seductively sleazy female vocals and is highly recommended to fans of all their erstwhile tour mates...

SCOTT KELLY's "The Wake" (Burning World) is a fantastic atmospheric country/folk album by one of Neurosis’ founding members. This is the third release in the Burning World / Roadburn Neurosis related series and is a must for all fans of dark Americana, country, folk, etc as well as the ever loyal Neurosis fanbase. Available on a limited lavishly packaged vinyl LP.

FARFLUNG’s “The Belief Module” album is finally available on vinyl for the first time since the CD album was released in 1998. If you've never heard of Farflung then you have been missing out on some of the most pleasurable space-rock around. This album excels at combining layers of simple guitar and synth lines to create a wall of blistering Krautrock influenced space rock. The influence of 60's acid rock is evident through the entire album, parts of which recall both the Syd Barrett led Pink Floyd and Hawkwind. Indeed the fusion of classical acid rock and modern synth space rock makes this album appealing at many levels, and to a wide audience. This gatefold release on double vinyl includes a vinyl only exclusive bonus track too!

Burning World records is also extremely proud to be able to release a full-length endeavour by LUSTMORD for the first time in 26 years. Available on double vinyl, Zoetrope (1999) is the soundtrack to an experimental avant-garde short film by music-video director Charlie Deaux. Thes Kafka inspired movie presents a haunting, apocalyptic story of man’s metaphysical existence and this is the perfect music to
provide the soundtrack. For the first time in 26 years an official full length vinyl release by Lustmord featuring an extra bonus track which is never released before!!!

MAGNUS are an excellent act fronted by Magnus Pelander the soulful voice hovering over the power chords of cult band Witchcraft. After leading his band to become one of the most successful acts in the global Black Sabbath worshipping doom/proto-metal underground community, Pelander refuses to rest on his laurels while Witchcraft are on a break. On his eponymous solo debut (Svart) Magnus Pelander has tapped into the same beautiful, curious vintage current he did with Witchcraft but with acoustic soundscapes and melancholic acid folk rock replacing heavy riffs. One can hear echoes of British folk rock and vintage singer-songwriters. A great album…

Since 1970 GROBSCHNITT have been considered one of the most successful live bands in Germany, thrilling with lavish shows and impressive musicianship. From 2008 to 2009 on the "Next Party" tour, followed by the "Rockpommel's Land" tour, the tape machines ran with and captured the best of both tours. The highlights have already appeared on the two double vinyl albums "Live 2008"and Live 2010. Now at the behest of both the band and their many fans, the two productions have been brought together on a double CD "Live 2008/2010"(Sireena). A real treat for both Kraut and Progressive Rock fans.

The reissue department end the year on a high with…

ELECTRIC SOUND SHOW VOLUME TWO (Elastic Cat) is the second and eagerly awaited volume in what promises to be a long running series from the man behind the legendary Dig The Fuzz label. All volumes have added bonus tracks not on the original LPs. This set plunges deep into the vaults of the label and offers up some much sought after obscure independent releases plus an astonishing wealth of unissued Great British Psychedelia & Freakbeat from the mid to late 60s. The set is
Re-mastered and packaged in a full colour booklet with well researched liners on each band, and enhanced with rare photos.

FANTASIO DAZE (Otherside) is a CD re-issue of the original stunning double 10" album in a gatefold sleeve featuring 21 tracks of killer '60s Dutch psych/progressive music all taken from singles. Beautifully presented in colour artwork that features all of the original sleeves. Holland produced some of the best psych of the '60s and here you can check out the obscure (but ace!) likes of The Bags, St. Giles System, Turquoise and Opus.

TAKESHISHA KOSUGI is an inter-media artist and performer who started his career back in the 60's in Tokyo. His 1975 album "Catch Wave" (Phoenix) is an absolute progressive masterpiece, bringing Takehisa Kosugi's musical talent into territories usually reserved for Kosmic Krautrock. It’s a numbered, limited edition CD which naturally appears at No.9 in Julian Cope’s Top 50 Jap rock album list!

MASAHIKO SATOH AND THE SOUNDBREAKERS “Amalgamation" (Phoenix) is one of the most tripped-out albums you’ll ever hear from this Japanese keyboardist and that's saying a lot, considering some of his other avant sessions of the 70s! This one's a really free-form jam – and comes very highly recommended. The cd comes as a numbered, limited edition and appears at No.7 in Julian Cope’s Top 50 Jap rock album list

If any of the above peak your interest, then you really should also hunt down a copy of this year’s SHINDIG annual. Now on ANNUAL No.3 this is the psych/garage magazine’s best book yet. It's a beautiful hardback with a stunning silver foil cover by Savage Pencil. Inside the book is stuffed with in depth features on The Pretty Things, Flamin' Groovies, Kevin Ayers, Alice Cooper, Scaffold and The Strawbs amongst others. The ideal Xmas present for the Psych/Garage lover in your life!

After more than a decade of performing, recording, and surviving line up changes, the pop/glam rock/punk rock group CHAINSAW KITTENS from Norman, Oklahoma, remains one of the best-kept secrets in rock music. Having received critical acclaim and toured with Jane's Addiction, Smashing Pumpkins, and Iggy Pop, you
would think they would be household names by now. Sadly not, but new album "The All American" (Burnside) is a great addition to their canon.

THE MOMMYHEADS achieved cult status in North America in the 1990s, touring relentlessly, releasing five critically acclaimed albums, and influencing a generation of alternative bands with their unique style of quirky, melodic, groove pop. "Finest Specimens" (Burnside) is a career spanning 21 song retrospective cd including previously unreleased live recordings, recently remastered tracks, stunning live versions and a new exclusive track.

Loved and cult-followed for his rock/pop bands Pure Joy and Flop, Seattle songwriter RUSTY WILLOUGHBY turns out a new album of stunning, lo-electricity recordings called “Cobirds Unite” (Burnside). Rusty is influenced by everything from Gram Parsons to Steve Martin, and the album is an hour of lush, intelligent, alt-country loneliness with vibraphone, cello, and pedal steel in all the right places. Visqueen/Neko Case vocalist Rachel Flotard harmonizes on almost every line of every verse, and joins a brilliant cast of musicians including members of Screaming Trees, Afghan Wigs, Gutter Twins, and Mudhoney.

The often over looked UK rockabilly scene has belted out a couple of winners this month in the shape of CHEATER SLICKS “Go Wild With Me” album (Western Star) and SLICK 49’s “Rev Up, Burn Out”. Both acts are hard touring, hard working bands taking the nod from classic 50’s rock and roll whilst adding their own respective contemporary twists. Give them a listen!

NAZXUL's "Totem" is a 15 year anniversary re-issue of an iconic landmark in Australian Black Metal. This album was touted at the time by some critics as an Aussie answer to such black metal classics as Emperor's "In the Nightside Eclipse" and Marduk's "Panzer Division". Nearly two decades on and even the most cursory listen suggests those critics were bang on the money!

Two cult Black Metal gem's have been exhumed from the frozen soil of Finland. With the rawest sound, coldest melodies, and the voice of a truly tortured soul...it could only be HORNA. "Kun Synkkä Ikuisuus Avautuu" (Frostscald) contains obscure analogue demo recordings which were later completed for the "Sudentaival" and "Ordo Regnum Sathanas" albums. "Perimä Vihassa Ja Verikostossa" (Frostscald) is an exclusive limited CD featuring the original 10” MLP from 1999 with an exclusive bonus song taken from the band's rare 7” EP split with Fog.

Just a quick mention for some of the excellent Seventh Rule catalogue that we are now distributing…INDIAN "Slights And Abuse" is a sledgehammer assault combining His Hero Is Gone's epic crust, Shellac's obsessive-compulsive rhythmic battery, and Sunn 0)))'s glacial drone, all delivered with a rabid punk rock approach. MILLIONS "Gather Scatter" features duelling guitars that conjure up bizarre of Black Flag scraping up against the anthemic melodies of King Crimson. LORD MANTIS "Spawning The Nephilim" is a delicious doom, sludge and Punk cocktail served up for fans of Neurosis, Meshuggah, Immolation, and Melvins. WETNURSE "Invisible City" has the urgency of early hardcore; the aggro, off-kilter noise of the Amrep label, the raw, outcast power of early death metal and the melodic transcendence of classic rock; a similar stew to the one stirred up by the likes of Dillinger Escape Plan, Converge, and Voivod in the past.

FROM THE BOGS OF AUGHISKA are taking Dark Ambient / Soundscape’s into unchartered territory, basing their virulent, unique and powerful sounds on rural life & isolation as well the heritage & mysticism of pagan Ireland. Their new self titled alum on Lone Vigil is truly is the musical equivalent of standing on top of a cliff with a gale force wind in your face. From The Bogs Of Aughiska have already gained respect amongst many figure heads in the underground metal scene including Attila Csihar (Mayhem / SUNN0))))) and Roman Saenko (Drudkh/Hate Forest)

Thanks for your support in 2010 – See you all next year!

The Code 7 Team.
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CODE 7 – WEBSITE INTRO - NOVEMBER 2010

With only 8 weeks to go before Christmas what better way to prepare the forthcoming Winter weather than with our usual helping of the finest new music around. Don’t forget to check out the Decoded site for a full in depth look at all the November new releases.

Only one place to start and that is with the new STEVE DIGGLE album “Air Conditioning” (3.30 Records). For the uneducated, Steve Diggle is a major part of the legendary Buzzcocks, writing Joe Strummer’s favourite Buzzcocks tune, ‘Autonomy’ during their storied career. Along with his prolific solo output he is now a film actor together with Phil Daniels and Keith Allen in the forthcoming film, ‘Vinyl’. ‘Air Conditioning’ is a refreshing blast of punk attitude and conscious lyrical content; railing against the plastic and throw-away nature of the modern music machine. Steve and his band The Revolution Of Sound have recorded 13 tracks that all punks, mods and rockers, old and new will be able to relate to. With the UK press backing this album to the hilt , it is great to see one of the finest songwriters to come out of the punk era still on top form - You really need to hear this record…

AGALLOCH are one of the most established US American Black Metal, Pagan bands and after a long four year wait they return with their fourth full-length album "Marrow of the Spirit" (Viva Hate). This new record encompasses the
vast musical landscape Agalloch has traversed for fourteen years and sees them continuing to stretch and enrich their sound to superb effect. Available in two versions the limited version contains an entire black jewel case box with burned emblem on the jewel case and a blackened CD. The limited version is also hand numbered and is strictly limited to just 2000 copies. It WILL sell out very quickly. Order it now or miss out!

With a pedigree that reads like a who’s who of Mid Western Post Rock ( SN members have served in Rodan, Slint,June Of 44 and Rachels) and a back catalogue on Touch And Go it is no surprise that SHIPPING NEWS
have delivered a late contender for album of the year with their masterful “One Less Heartless To Fear” album (Africantape/Karate Body). Looser and freer than their previous work, the band still slip into a quieter mood on occasion but generally the new songs are shorter, stripped down and more nasty. Fans of Jesus Lizard, Shellac, Fugazi and Mission Of Burma will find much to admire on this fine album…

The name of SLOUGH FEG should sound familiar to any average metal-head who has had an interest in Metal Music during the last ten years; whilst die-hard fans of the band fall in the category of the “true metal” fans, Mike Scalzi and his band mates have often broke the boundaries between the rock/metal and hard rock fields, and the story of Slough Feg has always been that of a band moving on the borders of notoriety and unawareness. 2009 marked a new high for the band, with the release of their full length “Ape Uprising”, a US tour with The Sword and their participation to the soundtrack of the EA videogame “Brutal Legend”. Now celebrating their 20-year long career, the band delivers their stunning 8th full length album, “The Animal Spirits” (Cruz Del Sur) and it does not disappoint – one of the best Metal albums of the year!

Having sold millions of records, gained several Grammy awards and appearing on the Billboard Country and Top 200 charts over 20 times in 25 years, it seems a little strange that KD LANG's early material is so hard to track down. Well fear not as the "A Truly Western Experience" (Burnside) two disc set is here to save the day. The double set includes six rare and previously unreleased recordings and 3 videos plus "Friday Dance Promenade & Damned Old Dog" (the debut from 1983) and the 1984 debut album. This release perfectly captures the pre-Sire Records era that launched the career of K.d. Lang and will save you a lifetime of trying to source the originals on E-Bay.

“Slight Spell” (Karate Body) is the debut solo album from THE RAVENNA COLT, the solo project of John Quaid. Quaid is a founding member of
My Morning Jacket who performed on the band’s first three albums before leaving the band in 2004. Last year Quaid and his cousin, MMJ front man Yim Yames, formed Removador Recordings & Solutions, which released the CD and
digital versions of “Slight Spell. Now this limited vinyl LP version is available and comes thoroughly recommended to fans of Ryan Adams, Flying Burrito Brothers and early My Morning Jacket. The album also features guest appearances by current and ex MMJ members.

Formed in 2005, GNAW THEIR TONGUES was created to expose a darker reality to the world through sonic nightmares. The band's sound encompasses dark ambient, black metal, doom, drone and orchestral avant-garde music. Until now 4 full-lengths, countless splits, EP's, vinyl only releases, cassettes, free downloads have been released to much critical acclaim. 2010 sees their fifth album "L’Arrivée de las terne mort triomphante" being dragged into the sunlight as a limited vinyl pressing on the Burning World label.

WINO is one of the early pioneers of Doom metal and Stoner Rock. During the last 25 years his bands such as Hidden Hand, Saint Vitus and Spirit Caravan have left their undeniable mark on the genre. The "Live At Roadburn" (Roadburn) album captures the great afterburner live show from the Roadburn Festival in 2009 and is now available as a very limited Vinyl LP release.

"Ancestral Cult Of Divinity" is the second album for Alone Records from Barcelona doom based Metal combo based WARCHETYPE. The referential band on the Spanish doom scene fire out Intense and epic heavy doom which fans of Black Sabbath, Internal Void, Saint Vitus or Electric Wizard will love.

"Itaca" (Alone) is the amazing third album from THE SOULBREAKER COMPANY, totally filled with spectacular guitar riffing, tons of psychedelia and some amazing vocal work. A must for fans of Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Groundhogs, Hawkwind and Amon Duul II.

IMMAD WASIF is a Psych flavoured singer songwriter from Los Angeles who has enlisted the help of friends like Dale Crover (Melvins) and Greg Burns (Red Sparrows) on his new album “The Voidist” (Viva Hate). The resultant work is one choc full of post modern psychedelic Rock at its very best…

Metal Hammer declared SINOCENCE's ‘Scar Obscura' (Metalbox) to be "One of the best metal debuts to have come out of the UK in recent years" and it's new Special Edition is now re-released as a Multimedia CD and includes the 10 tracks from the original album, a Feature on the history of Sinocence and the making of ‘Scar Obscura’, and a photo gallery. If you have seen them over the years supporting Metal heavyweights such as Machine Head, WASP, Staind, and Soulfly then you should already be frantically clicking the Buy button!

Epic Doom Rockers par excellence SEAMOUNT are back with their 3rd full length CD “III: Sacrifice” on the prestigious Church Within label. Housed in beautiful cover art of legendary fantasy artist Boris Vallejo, Seamount has released their most mature record to date and is looking forward to European tour dates in 2011.

THE JIGSAW SCENE have smart, inventive melodies and impeccable arrangements, in short great music that crosses the borders between Americana and Power Pop on their soon to be classic “Bananas Foster” (Burnside) album.

On his second album “West Bank Gone”(Burnside), DARRYL HOLTER returns to his North Country roots and takes us to the “West Bank” music scene of Minneapolis in the 60s: The time when Bob Dylan was learning about folk music and, a few years later, a young Bonnie Raitt recorded her debut album…

DEAD SNARES is the artistic creation of Jeffrey Cain from the band Remy Zero. One late night after a recording session in a burst of frenzied inspiration, Cain entered the studio alone without an agenda…“no words, no chords, and no idea” and the outcome is “Speak The Language” (Burnside).

Last seen in the UK supporting Steve Earle, JEFF FINLIN is an all-American original whose singing recalls John Hiatt, Dylan and Dr John. But his songwriting has its own unique character and seems to have become more honed and concentrated on excellent new album "The Tao Of Motor Oil"(Burnside)

"An Adventure 1999-2009"(Burnside) is an anthology of music from Mandolin virtuoso MIKE MARSHALL that is something of a travelogue documenting Marshall’s various sojourns with friends old and new over the past 15 years, while also showcasing his uncanny gift for writing vivid, captivating melodies.

THE BLUE HEARTS have a proud history of pushing the boundaries of contemporary rock, blues and Americana since 1992, and their new album "Jukebox Of Maladies" (Militant) is a strong step forward into a new contemporary sound, which the band have dubbed ‘neon rock’, drawing on the roots of rock n roll mixed with the sexuality of a late night speakeasy, adding ethereal harmony, and a cathedral of guitar, violin and pedal steel. Blue Hearts fans throughout the world will be thrilled to hear the new album, a return to their innovative core, and their best work yet.

The Reissue department had a small breather this month but still found time for the following gems…

EXOTIC MIND EXPANDERS VOLUME 4 (Future Perfect) is the fourth in the series of the successful instrumental comp series compiled by the Dutch ‘Huiboki’. Offering the most exotic tracks to date, Volume 4 transports the listener to bazaars, beaches and across borders in search of the grooviest, most psychedelic tracks ever committed to audio. Here they’ll find ultra-rare Sixties afro-funk, fuzz guitars and surf rock all in one place!

Not a reissue, but one title that should appeal to Sixties psych fans is the brand new PATRICK CAMPBELL LYONS album “13 Dalis” (Burnside). Yep, the legendary songwriter from cult Sixties outfit Nirvana has returned with his first album in fifteen years and it’s a stunner that’s highly recommended to fans of his old outfit…

Reissue aficionados will also enjoy issue Issue 19 of SHINDIG magazine which
is always a great read and this time around has an excellent cover feature on The Monkees ‘Head’ masterpiece, aswell as features on the The Easybeats, The Ivys and The Liverpool scene.

British Rockabilly outfit FURIOUS are back with new opus “Wreck The Hoose Juice” (Nervous) , which is excellent contemporary Rock and Roll and should not be dismissed with the Psychobilly tag the band often get lumbered with. In true retro fifties style the album is also released on vinyl by Cut Throat Records.

With the excellent sales and press for their new album “Pins And Needles” it seems a good time to remind you all of the earlier BIRTHDAY MASSACRE
titles that we distribute. Take your pick from the “Show And Tell” CD, “Show And Tell” DVD or the “Blue Room” DVD (Repo Records) to check out this cult outfit’s early sound and legacy.

Fans of Birthday Massacre may also enjoy “Crisalide” (Repo) the new release by Italian female fronted goth electro metallers THE LOVECRAVE. A mixture of new material and some rare Radio Show recordings make this a must for fans…

The X-Factor drones wouldn’t know it if it moved in next door, but Britain also has REAL talent…

THE MOLES - Hailing from Bristol, this acts “The Future Sounds Of Ashton” album (Sea Monkey Do Monkey) is not only housed in a fetching Sebadoh pastiche sleeve, but it also contains music that goes way below the underground. Reminiscent of Damon Albarn, lyricist Mole Brin Davies fully understands the correlation between the disconnected playfulness of Syd Barret and the art school nihilism of the early punk movement. Across 15 songs his group forge a distinct sound, as English as fish ’n’ chips and reminiscent of legends like The Flaming Lips, Blur, The Soft Boys and Billy Childish.

Hailing from Cardiff COLORAMA’s group leader Carwyn Ellis composes,
plays and sings some of the most awe inspiring and beautiful songs heard this decade. The psychedelic cover of new album “Box” (See Monkey Do Monkey) may proudly – and loudly – state where the reference points come from musically, but the depth of the performances, musicianship, song writing and production leave all competition standing at the starting line. ‘Box’ is at once reminiscent of the best old record shop finds and as deferential and startlingly new as the best Beck, XTC or Coral recordings, “Box” is a serious music fan’s dream. Star Pick in the latest Shindig!

OX SCAPULA - If you haven't heard these guys yet , they channel loud, bass-heavy grooves in the spirit of Unwound, Hoover and Slint on their excellent "Hands Out" (Art For Blind) LP. The album is only available on LP but you get a free download voucher. The Ox have also just completed gigs around the UK and played a European jaunt during September and October this year.

THE FIRE AND I are an energetic two-piece from Scotland. Using only bass and drums, they have moulded a very distinctive and powerful sound, often difficult to comprehend from their two members. Debut album 'Stampede Finale' (Crash Car) showcases the adrenaline-fuelled energy and sheer rock credibility of the band and get the band noticed beyond their native country where they have been making waves for some time now...

SHUSH are a London based four piece rock band fronted by Argentine siren Milena Yum. They exploded onto the rock scene two years ago with their debut EP ‘Shush’. Their debut album “"Soundtrack Of My Life" (Ruby) is a twisted sound of rock with dark pop melodies, lush vocals, crunchy guitars, pounding bass and thundering drums. The band have earned plaudits from Rock Sound and Metal Hammer to date who have drawn comparisons with acts like The
Wildhearts, Foo Fighters, and Ramones.

KILL EM DEAD COWBOY are a Metalcore band from Portsmouth UK, who are often likened to bands such as Asking Alexandria, August Burns Red and Atreyu. One cursory listen to their “I Am Salvation” (Lockjaw) album will tell you that the band also takes on a wide range of influences and offers something for everyone to enjoy….

THE DEPARTED are a five-piece melodic hardcore band from the Grimsby area , often likened to Bane, Comeback Kid, Modern Life Is War, Dead Swans, Champion and other bands of such calibre. Chiming melodic riffs over blisteringly fast palm muted verses make for a polished, well presented, excellent example of a 21st Century hardcore on their "Remnants" debut (Lockjaw).

Thanks for popping by – And remember all these releases are available via your friendly local independent music retailer!
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Hello and welcome to Code 7’s October schedule…don’t forget to check out Decoded for a full in depth listing and description of all our October releases.

Leading the pack this month is “Rude Awakening” (Rebel Alliance) the first ever compilation from Manchester’s genre music terrorists SONIC BOOM SIX
Spanning the best tracks from the bands 3 full-length albums, various EP’s and live fan favourites this is the perfect introduction to the band for the uninitiated and a fine recap for those already in the know – even their most hardcore fans will find something to please them as the release features three exclusive tracks.

GASLIGHT ANTHEM fans, and record collectors in general, should move quickly to procure themselves copies of the super limited RED vinyl pressing of the bands first two releases. Yes you read it correctly; both the classic “Sink Or Swim” debut LP and the bands “Senor And The Queen” 10” are being repressed in limited edition coloured vinyl runs of just 500 units by our friends at Gunner Records. Move quickly as limited versions of these classic records will not last long at all…

Virginia’s SALOME has been generating quite the buzz over the last year or so building up to this trio’s anticipated full-length album "Terminal” (Profound Lore). Known for their stunning live performance and fronted by a woman who
is known to have one of the strongest voices in doom metal, Salome first made waves several years ago when unleashing their debut self-titled album to an unsuspecting audience. The band have rightly since become recognised as one of the heaviest American doom metal bands alongside legends like Yob and Dark Castle. Mandatory for fans of Yob, Sunn0))) and Burning Witch, “Terminal” will be seen as a future classic and a milestone in American doom metal.

ATLANTEAN KODEX ’s “The Golden Bough” (Cruz Del Sur) is one of the most anticipated releases of 2010. The German band has a strong and devoted fan-base within the Metal Underground movement with a series of limited edition releases and festival appearances to their name. They’re now ready to make a step forward, with “The Golden Bough”, already praised by the German press as “Maybe one of the best metal albums from Germany ever”(Rock Hard). And with its mix of extreme heaviness, melodies and killer solos/vocals, and references to classic Bathory and Solstice, “The Golden Bough” really should not leave any Metal fan unmoved, becoming a serious candidate for those up and coming 'best-of-year' lists in the Metal press.

Threshold's Johanne James other project KYRBGRINDER are back with their new album "Cold War Technology” (Kyrbgrinder) and offer up more of their excellent unique blend of Prog Rock and Classic Metal. Not easily pigeonholed, KG appeal to a wide variety of rock fans and their rapidly expanding fan base includes fans of Threshold, Dream Theater, Living Colour and King’s X to name just four. If you do well with Threshold or acts on the Mascot roster then this is a highly recommended stock item.

The summer may be just a distant memory, so how about some sun kissed Ska to put the warmth back in your living rooms?

Ten years after their last Album, THE HOTKNIVES (cited as one of “the UK’s Top Five Ska Bands of all time” by Melody Maker) release their new record “About time” on CD/Vinyl (Sunny Bastards). Containing thirteen fantastic new Ska, Dub & Jamaican-Reggae songs with Soul-elements and a unique British sensibility. The classic “Hotknives-Sound” also introduces some new elements such as Rocksteady/Raggamuffin, Dub, Psychobilly bass lines and punk
Guitars this time out. In short if you enjoy the debut albums of The Specials and Madness then you need to hear this record!

THE IMPALERS is an all-star reggae band featuring veteran musicians from Skankin’ Pickle, Let’s Go Bowling, The Rudiments, 78 RPM’s and The InCiters. On their album "Blood Rum And Reggae" (IDC) these seasoned pros come together to create a new, energetic and authentic sound steeped in the traditions of Jamaican reggae, rocksteady and dub. One just needs to hear The Impalers to recognize their true love for Jamaican music. The Impalers take the very best of 60’s and 70’s reggae—deep grooves you would expect of the The Soul Vendors or The Harry J Allstars; sweet melodies like those of Phyllis Dillon, Dawn Penn or Horace Andy; and funky, soul-drenched horns you’d find from the likes of Tommy McCook or Roland Alphonso – to make a sweet, sweet sound.

The Pain Fuelled, Sorrow laden, Epic debut “Methods To End It All" (Cure For Poison) from Ireland’s melodic melancholy metal / dark rock quartet CREATION’S TEARS is a must hear and will have great appeal for followers of the 90's Extreme Metal scene in the UK as it features both Lee Morris (ex Paradise Lost) and guest vocalist Sarah Jezebel Deva (ex Cradle Of Filth). One of the best Metal debuts of the year…

THE ROTTED also feature names that long time extreme metal fans will recognise. This time out it’s members of legendary Death Metal act Gorerotted. Gorerotted recorded albums for both Relapse and Metal Blade during their career and this new project continues in that band’s fine tradition. Their Anarchogram mini album (Anarchogram) contains six tracks of blistering Punk infused Death Metal at a low price and will be supported by live dates through Europe between now and 2011. Get It!

By some coincidence the classic GOREROTTED album “Mutilated In Minutes “(Anarchogram) is also reissued this month. This was the first album released by UK gore freaks Gorerotted on Relapse in 2003. Featuring nine songs of intense brutality that combined serious musicianship with tongue in cheek gore/horror themes; this is very much a classic of the Death Metal genre.

Utilising their guitars in a wholly different, but no less powerful, manner are noted French art rock trio MARVIN who have their first album reissued on Vinyl by Africantape this month. Recorded in 2006, the record is closer to Math Electro noise post Punk than their later work. Totally Instrumental, this record will blow you away with its raw energy and efficacy. One for fans of Trans Am and Shellac.

AUN "Black Pyramid" (Cyclic Law) continues on the foundations laid with their acclaimed 2009 album Motorsleep. Whilst still dealing in dark matter, the twisted guitar and electronics mutations find the duo at their most melodic, luminous and accessible yet. Limited edition CD of 1000 copies in a 4 Panel Digipack.

Belfast's THIRD SHOCK are a covert outfit, never keen on hype they resist probing on every level. Key contributors to the early intelligent Techno movement with early releases on the now legendary Mutant Disko and GPR labels they stood alongside heavyweights Black Dog, Plaid and Mark Broom during the mid-nineties. New album "Schedule One" (Gamma Proforma) is a worthy addition to the racks of any "Intelligent Electonica" stockist.

The ‘Alone’ label arrives at Code 7 this month and their catalogue features features some great albums from the likes of CUZO and ORTHODOX alongside some superbly packaged limited edition vinyl albums from acts such as LUDICRA and CONAN.

The Reissue Department have been as busy as ever this month…

“WE ALL LIVE ON CANDY GREEN – ELECTRIC SOUND SHOW VOLUME ONE” (Elastic Cat) is the first and eagerly awaited volume in what will be a long running series from the man behind the legendary Dig The Fuzz label. He created The Electric Sound Show series to re-issue on CD the content of the vinyl series Incredible Sound Show Stories, over 15 volumes of 60s psychedelia. This first cd also contains added bonus tracks not on the original LPs. The series as a whole is set to become a classic ‘must-have’ collection for those in the know; plunging deep into the vaults of the Dig The Fuzz label and offering up much sought after obscure independent releases plus an astonishing wealth of unissued Great British Psychedelia & Freakbeat from the mid – late 60s.

FANTASIO DAZE (Galaxy) is a CD re-issue of the original stunning double 10" album in a gatefold sleeve featuring 21 tracks of killer '60s Dutch psych/progressive music . Beautifully presented colour artwork that features all of the original sleeves. Holland produced some of the best psych of the '60s and here you can check out tracks from the likes of The Bags, St. Giles System, Turquoise, Opus, Jeep, The Tykes, Group 1850 and Names and Faces...

Moving across the Atlantic and at long last, "GLIMPSES" (Past And Present) the legendary series of moody ‘60s punk and garage compilations is available on CD again! Originally issued in the early 1980s, and featuring some of the greatest and rarest American 45 sides of the 1960s (from all over the US), it’s downright essential for fans of the Nuggets and Pebbles series and is presented here with a booklet offering biographical information on all artists, plus rare pictures. The Deluxe double CD set is packaged with a full booklet containing liner notes and rare photos.

After last months well received CD issue the fantastic self titled GERMAN OAK album is available as a limited LP vinyl pressing this month (Flasback) – Completely nutso German pysch once likened to a cross between Red Crayola and a fighter plane this record was truly a one off classic!

"Acquiring The Taste" (Timeless) was GENTLE GIANT's second album was generally regarded as major advance on their first, featuring superior singing, playing, and song writing, as well as a more unified sound, without sacrificing
the element of surprise in the first record. As such we are proud to present a limited one off vinyl pressing of just x500 copies of this Progressive masterpiece. Order this one up quickly ladies and gents!

The "WATERLOO SUNSET STORY" (Future Legend) is a 22-track compilation of everything released plus rarities of this most collectible label. The most sought after tracks are the Mod/Britpop classic ‘Make up you mind’
by the Reaction and a rare Eleanor Rigby track ‘Censorship Acoustic". With ‘The Best of Eleanor Rigby Vol.1’ and nearly all her 7” singles sold out this is now the only way to acquire the A & b sides of her first 4 singles. It features a 12-page booklet including rare photos of Eleanor and the story of the label

ELEANOR RIGBY is a best selling cult artists whose vinyl releases change hands for big money. Eleanor disappeared at the height of her popularity ending up in cult status. Not only do old mods and Britpoppers keep rediscovering and
new mods get straight into her but she has a whole legion of non mod fans and college student across the world wanting to get more material from her. The "Best Of Vol.2" CD/LP (Future Legend) not only feature her rarer tracks including the extremely popular ‘Play with Fire’ and ‘I’m not like everybody else’ but an exclusive collaboration with the late great Steve Maririot (Small faces) Plus P.P Arnold, Chris Farlowe and Eddie Phillips of Creation on a new version of ‘All or Nothing’.

Also available from ELEANOR RIGBY are the last ever 7” vinyl copies of her “Play With Fire” and “Take Another Shot” 7” singles on Future Legend. Both are highly sought after by collectors so grab a copy whilst you can!

For the first time the phenomenal German Neo Psych scene has been honoured on the compilation "DANCING FOOD AND ENTERTAINMENT" (Sireena). During the early 80's a hip mix of garage, punk, rock & psychedelic sprung from the strongholds of Hamburg, Berlin, Ruhr,and Southern Germany causing quite a stir in both Germany and abroad. Acts like Multicoloured Shades, The Shiny Gnomes, 39 Clocks, The Chud and Dizzy Satellites caused a certain scent
of paisley, leather and velvet in the air. Unfortunately the Organ/Fuzz guitar sound faded out in the late 80's. Here are the best cuts of the era assembled on one cd for the first time, making this a nice companion piece to recent compilations of similar Swedish and Australian acts from the same era!

Those of you with a taste for Eighties US Rock acts should not miss the first ever cd releases of the debut DAN REED NETWORK album “Breathless” (Burnside). These six songs were the first ever tracks released by the Portland rock legend on his way to filling arenas throughout the world, and are available for the first time ever!

And finally as the X Factor returns to entertain the chimps, do not forget that Britain has got a lot of Real Talent too!

BOOTSCRAPER hail from Leeds and this self titled gypsy Punk combos debut album “Country And Eastern” (Tns) is a real breath of fresh air that contains a heady punky cocktail of Tom Waits, Flogging Molly and Gogol Bordello influences.

ARTERIES have had previous releases on Household Name and unleash their new album “Dead Sea” (Specialist Subject) this month. This South Wales combo kick up a fine racket revealing exactly why they have landed plum support slots with the Bronx and Fucked Up in recent months…

Also from South Wales, SATURDAYS KIDS are younger guys with an arty Punk edge that belies their years. Indeed their new self titled 7” (Art For Blind) reveals a tasteful respect for an older generation of angular US guitar bands such as Mission Of Burma, Pavement and Sonic Youth. We think this is one very good single and the band are one to keep an eye on in the future

SILENT FRONT’s “Dead Lake” (Art For Blind) is a stunningly packaged lp/cd set from this London act. Their heavier Math/Post Punk sound takes influences from both legendary Shellac and Sonic Youth, whilst nodding its head towards Fugazi and the Dischord label. Good stuff!

Don’t forget to join us again next month, Code 7.
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Hello and thanks for dropping by to look at our latest releases- don’t forget to check out Decoded – The Code 7 Online Magazine for a full in depth look at all the new September titles.

So let’s start off with:

NEUROSIS who have their excellent live album “ Live At Roadburn 2007” (Roadburn) released as a luxurious double vinyl set this month. Limited to just
1000 copies worldwide the album expertly captures the band’s live experience, expertly harnessing the monolithic flow and power of the band’s well-known sonically devastating live performances. The monstrous 78-minute record
showcases this iconic band surging through track from their last few albums and offers so much more than being "just another live album".

On a Neurosis related note we also have a ltd vinyl LP from Steve Von Till’s side project HARVESTMAN entitled “In A Dark Tongue” (Burning World), this excellent album showcases a different side to the man’s talents with a dark ambient sound full of loops, multiple layers of guitar and occasional drums. Of course there is always a hint of that off kilter Neurosis style to keep the die hard fans happy…

WINO should need no introduction as one of the early pioneers of Doom metal and stoner rock. Over the last 25 years his bands such as Hidden hand, Saint Vitus, Spirit caravan have left an undeniable mark on the genre. The new "Live At Roadburn 2009" CD (Roadburn) release captures his band’s strongest ever line up in great live show from the Roadburn festival last year. A must for fans of: Saint Vitus, Spirit caravan, Hidden Hand, Clutch, Kyuss et al…

Another month brings us yet another sterling Profound Lore release. This time out its’ DAWNBRINGER whose new album “Nucleus” is a real old school metal fans delight echoing such greats as NWOBHM era Iron Maiden, Blue Oyster Cult and early Judas Priest. The band were formed in Chicago by Chris Black of Nachtmystium and this is rightfully being considered as one of the most creative, catchy, and exciting heavy metal albums anyone will hear in 2010.

Electric Blues legend LARRY MILLER is back with new album “Unfinished
Business” (Big Guitar) and over its nine tracks further strengthens one critic’s claim that he is the ‘British Stevie Ray Vaughan’. Marvellous stuff for Blues fans and to make their month even better Larry’s long out of print “Outlaw” album is also being made available again this month by Big Guitar.

Having been making waves this year with some strong live support slots to the likes of Propaghandi and Strung Out, UK ska punk act RANDOM HAND have their “Inhale/Exhale” (Bomber) album reissued this month. This new label version has plenty of added tracks and is now available at a much lower price!

Selected as one of Terrorizer’s Most Anticipated Albums of 2010, Indiana's COFFINWORM certainly lived up to their billing when their "When All Became None" album was released by Profound Lore on CD earlier this year. Now it is finally available as a limited vinyl pressing courtesy of Seventh Rule Records, housed in a lovely gatefold sleeve this is a must have item for both vinyl collectors and any fans of Celtic Frost / Hellhammer looking for some new heroes...

"After" by IHSHAN (Vocalist/Guitarist from Emperor) was rightly hailed by Metal Hammer, Terrorizer, Kerrang, and even Classic Rock Magazine as a masterpiece in the UK press upon it's CD release by Candlelight Records a few months ago. Code 7 is now proud to present its release as a very limited Double White Vinyl LP (Temple Of Darkness). Order one now for once they are gone, they will be gone forever!

WE ARE KNUCKLE DRAGGER is a metal/punk/experimental trio from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne formed from the ashes of Yourcodenameis:milo. Their explosion onto the underground scene in late 2008 has hailed them kings and inevitably secured an army of followers. Yourcodenameis:milo were an alt. rock / experimental band from Newcastle and the late John Peels love for the band gained them national recognition and the chance to work with legends like Steve Albini. They released a small but critically acclaimed catalogue through the majors between 2004-2007. Critics are bravely hyping We Are Knuckle Dragger as one of the most important/genre defining bands since Nirvana, with the pure raw energy and excitement of bands like Converge and At The Drive-In also running riot amongst reviewer’s pens. Check out their staggering "Doors To Rooms" debut (Sapien) to be utterly convinced that, for once, the critics are right!

ATLANTEAN KODEX is one name to look out in 2010, having already been called "the best German band of the last 15 years" by German magazine Rock Hard. With a series of limited releases as well as many live appearances under their belts in, Atlantean Kodex have quickly gained a high status in the metal community. "The Pnakotic Demos" (Cruz Del Sur) is their first, long out of print official debut, originally released in 2007. This new edition has 4 bonus tracks bringing the total running time to almost 70 minutes. Fans of early Manowar’s epic sound and Bathory’s "Hammerheart" era should take note because "The Pnakotic Demos" is an unrelenting force of epic doom metal. The band’s first full-length "The Golden Bough" follows in October!

Now Metal fans let me tell you that if Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden, has a long-lost sister, it would doubtless be KOBRA AND THE LOTUS front woman Brittany Paige. This Canadian five-piece band have perfected the classic British heavy metal sound so pristinely on their "Out Of The Pit" (Kobra Music) debut that you would swear it was hauled out of a recording studio in London circa 1980 – The music is all topped off with Ms Paige's stunning vocal work that have more muscle than any man in the Metal scene today. This is a must for lovers of Female fronted metal and fans of Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and Iced Earth in general!

The Reissue department kicks off this month with an absolute corker!

In short LEAFHOUND’s legendary rare album “Grower Of Mushroom” is getting a limited reissue pressing of just x 500 copies on LP! Yes you read it correctly: the legendary 1970 debut album of proto Heavy Rock/ Metal is hitting the streets once again on the format it was intended to be heard on – Black Plastic. Be warned this looks like it will sell out in record time so get your order in with us right now!

CHRIS THOMPSON Self titled album (Sunbeam) was originally issued on the fabled Village Thing label folded in 1973, and has been described as one of
the best acid folk albums of the 1970s. Recorded in numerous locations by itinerant New Zealand guitar wizard Thompson (who travelled to the UK as part of Julie Felix’s band), it features guest appearances from Clem Alford and Keshav Sathe (Magic Carpet), and casts a hypnotic spell. It’s presented here in it’s fullest-ever version, with 16 bonus tracks, rare photos and detailed notes from the man himself. One reissue not to be missed.

In September 1970, legendary Blues Rock act HOT TUNA performed two acoustic shows without Jefferson Airplane at Pepperland and received good reviews, signifying that Hot Tuna could survive without their 'brother' band to support it. As Jefferson Airplane wound down and stopped touring, Hot Tuna became an independent group consisting of Jorma, Jack, new drummer Sammy
Piazza, and Papa John, moving fully to the electric band format. The resulting album "Burgers" (Moonlyte Line) reissued here, is the third album of the band: and the band's first studio album, the previous two being live recordings.

While playing in Jefferson Airplane, JORMAN KAUKONENE founded Hot Tuna, with fellow band member Jack Casady, as an outlet for their acoustic leanings. Airplane split in 1973 and Tuna went electric, and Kaukonen's songwriting skills began to predominate. He consolidated this with a successful solo career; in 1974 he released “Quah”. The album was recorded with Tom Hobson. The initial plan was to have side-A by Kaukonen and side-B by Hobson. However, RCA felt that Hobson's recordings would not be accepted by the public. Unhappy but accepting of the situation Kaukonen returned to the studio to record new tracks for side B. On this CD reissue of “Quah” (Moonlyte Line) the missing Hobson material is featured on as bonus tracks for the first time!

Kraut and Prog afficiandos will be delighted to hear that “Sounds Like These” (Sireena) the trendsetting double album from 1973 of the British Rock legend NEKTAR is available on vinyl once again. It's a Limited edition of 1000 Copies, in heavy-weight 180 gram vinyl including Poster with rare band photos and lyrics. You know what to do….

On cd for the very first time "High In Spirits" (Sireena) from BULLFROG was an album of melodic rockers that ensured attention not only in Germany but also in Portugal and the USA when released in 1977. Strong melodic rock with a touch of Funk / Kraut and some outstanding vocals by singer Gerd Hoch. This cd comes with an alternate mix of all tracks as a bonus.

Kraut Rock and Prog fans may also like to pick themselves up a copy of the legendary EFENDIS GARDEN reissue (Sireena). This side project of Jane and Harlis appears on cd for the very first time and includes their “forgotten” second album as a bonus.

HARLIS themselves have their self titled album and it’s follow up album “Night Meets The Day” both reissued on cd for the first time ever by Sireena.

Finally on the Kraut Rock front is a CD reissue of the legendary self titled album by GERMAN OAK (Flasback). Described by no less a personage than Julian Cope as “A cross between The Red Crayola and a World War Two bomber” – this is one record that must be heard to be believed!

As always reissue fiends are advised to pick up a copy of the new SHINDIG magazine, Issue #19 features The Birds, The Remains, Tages and mod overlords The Purple Hearts, along with a free 21 track download.

Three great releases for lovers of Powerpop and Americana;

Currently getting some great press from magazines line Mojo is the great new
COLIN GILMORE album “Goodnight Lane” (Burnside) which shows true deep Texan country roots (Colin’s father is the legendary Jimmie Dale Gilmore!) whilst mixing in some other influences such as The Clash and Townes Van Zandt. Colin has played shows with Joe Ely and Alejandro Escovedo in recent times – and his talent is fully deserving of keeping such legendary company…

THEE SGT MAJOR 111 delivers some awesome Punked up power pop on their debut full lengther “The Idea Factory” (Burnside). Stylistically you may be surprised to find this band are from Seattle; But when I tell you the band consist of members of The Posies, Fastbacks and Young Fresh Fellows you will see it all start to make sense!

"Outertainment" (Burnside) brings together for the first time two legends of Freak Folk and icons of cartoony musical madness. PETER STAMPEL AND BABY GRAMPS consist of Peter Stampfel, co-founder of the Holy Modal Rounders, who has been described by critics as “next to Bob Dylan, the nearest thing to genius folkiedom has thrown up.” Whilst Baby Gramps is an astonishing amalgam of everything that anybody’s ever heard from Charlie Patton to Mississippi John Hurt to Captain Beefheart. Between them they have developed an utterly original concoction that is easily the most intriguing synthesis to come out of the roots revival in recent times...

Don’t forget the Punks!!!

The award winning documentary movie “SKINHEAD CROSS CULTURE” finally gets a DVD release this month courtesy of the Sunny Bastards label. The film is the first American skinhead documentary that examines the “way of life” and it's origins in England and then the spread of that scene to America. The director Brian Davis is a skinhead and provides in his documentary an overview of the American skinhead scene and also takes a glance at England where the roots lie, but also at Germany where the biggest traditional scene still exists. The movie won 3 Awards at the Maverick Filmfestival 2010 and includes music and interviews from Murphy’s Law, Iron Cross, Aggrolites and Templars...

The ANTISEEN/ BRODYS MILTIA Split 7” (Haunted Hotel) stars twenty-five year veterans of pummelling scuzzy punk rock, the legendary ANTiSEEN coupled up with Kentucky cretins BRODY'S MILITIA who bring a similarly vicious burning thrash assault along to the party!

Some Good Ole Rock And Roll…

The “WE NEVER HAD IT SO GOOD” compilation (Western Star) features a host of currently active Rockabilly acts (John Leyton, Bob Butfoy, Kidd Kane & The Pirates,Graham Fenton, Jack Rabbit Slim) paying tribute to the British Rock n Roll and Pop music of the late 50s and early 60s.

THE RED HOT TRIO are a great British Rockabilly band with their debut album "Passport To Hell" (Nervous). It's NOT the usual ‘balding men in bowling shirts’ type of thing, and to prove that point it includes a Rockabilly anti-war song and a Plimsouls/Blondie cover!

One of the original British Rock And Roll stars JOHN LEYTON has two albums reissued this month. Check out “Look For A Star” and “John Leyton And The Flames” courtesy of Lone Rider Records.

And some fine Prog Rock…

The Re-Issue of the ENOCHIAN THEORY's 2007 Record "A Monument To The Death Of An Idea" (Anomalousz) should see some retrospective attention due to the
Band’s new record on Mascot Records and subsequent European tour with Spock's Beard.

SUN TRAVELLERS are a great Pan-European Prog outfit who recall the work of greats like Pink Floyd and Porcupine Tree on their self titled, self released album. Highly recommended to more adventurous Rock fans.

And Back to the Metal…

The third album from FURY UK "A Way Of Life" (Rocksector) is a brilliant & mature set of songs, carrying all their hallmarks of hooks, outstanding lead guitar work, complex, melodic & catchy. Covering classic metal, hard rock, progressive & thrash genres. The album is supported by a huge press campaign and a 21-date UK tour in October/November including 8 dates as
Special guests to veteran US outfit Y&T.

IN LINGUA MORTUA's sophomore effort, "Salon des Refusés" (Termo) has been a long time coming. So it's no wonder it's a perfectionist's dream of a metal album. Featuring the absolute cream of the crop of musicians hand-picked both from the metal, prog and avant-garde scenes of Scandinavia, Salon des Refusés is the kind of album that is guaranteed to leave you breathless. Includes members of Wobbler and White Willow Shining Motorpsycho and Urgehal to name just a few...

Hell’s Headbangers have some quality releases out this month, with the pick of the bunch being a great release by PROFANATICA entitled “Disgusting Blasphemies Against God” which is one of 2010's most highly anticipated black metal records, cementing the Greek acts position as true legends of extreme Black Metal.

And last but not least are two releases from long running UK label Lockjaw;

THE DONOTS “The Long Way Home” is a great new album from the long running European Skate-Punk outfit who have played the Warped / Deconstruction tour circuit a fair few times over the last decade.

Formed in 2005 out of Galway Ireland ONLY FUMES AND CORPSES
are a 4 piece metal influenced hardcore band - One listen to their debut album "Who Really Cares, What really Lasts" reveals heartfelt, heavy music without the veil of bullshit and auto-tune vocal choruses the more ‘metal’ side of the genre tends to spawn…

Thanks for dropping by, and please remember all these releases are available from all quality Independent retailers…

See You all next month…..

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Hello and thanks for dropping by to check out our August releases;

MOUTH OF THE ARCHITECT - "The Violence Beneath" (Translation Loss) is the long awaited 2010 follow up to the band's critically acclaimed 2008 full length “Quietly” and breathes much needed new life into the post-rock/metal gaze scene with a superbly cohesive collection of songs and artistry. This Trance-Metal Behemoth has just completed a highly successful Rock Sound sponsored European Tour that has swelled the numbers of their already huge fan base. If you have yet to fall under their spell but enjoy acts like Tool, Mogwai, Mastodon, Isis, Explosions In The Sky,
and Neurosis then you just HAVE to hear this album…

Initially formed by 'Cobalt' multi-instrumentalist Erik Wunder MAN’S GIN
have a sound that is not metal, but more or less good old Americana singer-songwriter style, almost as if Cobalt's sound was transformed into a singer-songwriter vibe and had its metal entirely stripped away from it. Man’s Gin’s sound is very reminiscent of the likes of such luminary acts as Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds (think “Henry’s Dream” era), whilst the more acoustic side is at times reminiscent of musicians such as Johnny Cash and Tom Waits and bands like Drive By Truckers and 16 Horsepower. Their debut album, “Smiling Dogs” (Profound Lore), is a collection of pure heartfelt songs that are moving, emotional, and at the same time unnerving and ultimately beautiful. A monument to both drinking and the darker side of America.

With one of the biggest cult followings in death metal today, Australia’s STARGAZER, alongside their comrades in Portal, are seen as one of the most unique and bizarre bands in death metal today. New album “A Great Work Of
Ages” (Profound Lore) will go down as a monument to the innovation and creativity of death metal through its intricate musical craftsmanship and profound lyrics and themes, and will inevitably be seen as one of the most creative and unique death metal albums of the year. A must for fans of Portal, Cynic, Atheist and other seminal
technical death metal luminaries like early Pestilence and Gorguts.

From humble beginnings in the UK Ska Punk scene to being one of the UK’s most respected live acts, the years have been kind to RANDOM HAND and to celebrate their latest round of festival appearances we have a reissue of their 1997 album “Another Change Of Plan” (Bomber) with added bonus tracks. This little beauty has been unavailable for years, and if you have seen the band supporting the likes of Propaghandi and Strung Out in recent years then you know you need to own it!

Cleveland Ohio’s legendary proto punks ROCKET FROM THE TOMBS two official albums have only been available very sporadically as imports in recent years so we are proud to make them readily available once again this month…

For the uninitiated ROCKET FROM THE TOMBS were the mutant daddy to Pere Ubu and the Dead Boys. Originally, singer David Thomas started the band in May 1974 with guitarist/writer Peter Laughner. Thomas and Laughner would form the core of a line-up that included Gene O'Connor (AKA Cheetah Chrome) (guitar), Craig Bell (bass) and Johnny Madansky (AKA Johnny Blitz) (drums). Somehow this disparate crew got opening gigs ranging for kindred spirits like Captain Beefheart and Television (who Laughner actually joined briefly). Without this band, the world may have never heard Pere Ubu and Dead Boys classics like Thirty Seconds Over Toyko, Final Solution, Ain't It Fun, Sonic Reducer, and Down in Flames: all Rockets originals, and all contained on the superb anthology release "The Day The Earth Met Rocket From the Tombs" (Smog Veil) along with 14 other tracks culled from archival live recordings.

Not content with putting together a collection of their historic recordings ROCKET FROM THE TOMBS released “Rocket Redux” (Smogveil) in 2004, a collection of 12 new studio recordings with the current line up. Featuring David Thomas (RFTT, Pere Ubu) on vocals, Cheetah Chrome (RFTT, The Dead Boys) on guitar and vocals, Richard Lloyd (Television) on guitar, Craig Bell (RFTT, Saucers) on bass and vocals and Steve Mehlman (Pere Ubu) on drums. Unlike some of their peers, this was no lame reunion cash in recording but a band still very much firing on all creative cylinders.

Smog Veil also makes the first ever PERE UBU remix album “Why I Remix Women” available this month. Featuring remixes from Dids, Michelle Temple and Keith Moilne as well as an alternative album mix from Ubu main man David Thomas himself, this is a totally indispensible release for all Pere Ubu completists.

Uncompromisingly beautiful and absolutely devastating, “A Determinism of Morality” (Translation Loss) proves to be ROSETTA’s most cohesive and trail blazing creation to date. Greatly anticipated and widely revered, this is the band’s highly anticipated full length follow up to their critically acclaimed 2007 sophomore release “Wake/Lift.” Highly recommended for fans of Explosions In The Sky,
Sonic Youth, Coalesce and The Cure.

Described by MTV as "Fall Out Boy infused with My Chemical Romance"
New York pop-rock quintet JUST SURRENDER release their eagerly anticipated third album "Phoenix" (Lab Records) this month. With worldwide sales of over 40,000 units and a rabid UK following built up via support slots with
You Me At Six and The Audition this could well be the defining breakthrough release for the band…

This month’s Reissues include…

MANDY MOORE – “But That Is Me” (Sunbeam) A deluxe double LP reissue featuring the original album as well as 15 bonus tracks, including her five non-LP single sides and numerous alternative takes and demos from the time. All housed in a lovely gatefold sleeve…

HUMAN BEINZ – “In Japan” (Sunbeam) First ever vinyl reissue of this legendary live album housed in a lavish Gatefold sleeve complete with an insert chock full of rare photos and an interview with guitarist Ting Markulin.

THE INGOES – “Before We Were Blossom Toes” is a comprehensive set by the band that would later evolve into legendary Psych act The Blossom Toes. It collects
collects all their studio recordings, as well as previously-unheard demos and a rare live cut all into one lovingly packaged Double vinyl LP.

The “MIXED UP MINDS” compilation (Past And Present) sets forth into the deep and wondrous valleys of British pop music culture assisting its’ sister series Piccadilly Sunshine in daring to bring forth the once overlooked and sadly neglected songs that were laid to waste in a saturated world of suburban teenage pop. All tracks are remastered and housed in a 16-page illustrated booklet.

Volume Two (Timeless) is the classic 1969 LP by SOFT MACHINE. A jazz influence is introduced to the humour, dadaism, and psychedelia of the previous years self titled album. The album was inspired by Frank Zappa's Absolutely Free,
and consists of two long compositions with "As Long as He Lies Perfectly Still" and "Dedicated to You" serving as interludes. Acting on a recommendation from Zappa, the band split the main tracks into smaller pieces that were given arbitrary names taken from sound effect tapes in the studio. Interested? Then please move quickly as this is a one off strictly limited vinyl only reissue.

Original members of MOBY GRAPE, Jerry Miller, Don Stevenson, Bob Mosley, and Peter Lewis entered the studio in 1989 armed with a Skip Spence song, plus ten
more tunes and the resulting "Legendary Grape" (Dig) album is considered the successor to their 1967 debut album. Now reissued and restored with the lost 11th tune from the original cassette-only release with 7 more bonus tracks added.

Out of the historic San Francisco scene of the late sixties came BIG BROTHER AND THE HOLDING COMPANY featuring Janis Joplin. Forty years on and Peter Albin, Sam Andrew, and Dave Getz welcomed guitarist Chad Quist and spectacular singer Sophia Ramos for some gigs capturing all the Big Brother favourites. They are captured on live album "Hold Me Live In Germany" (Dig) which is also available as a DVD. Sceptics should note that Singer Sophia Ramos has the grit, soul and charisma needed to handle the Janis Joplin vocals as she charges through classics like Piece of My Heart and Ball and Chain.

BEAU BRUMMELS Live album "Live!" (Dig) features the five original band members reunited for a series of club dates to prepare for their 1975 Warner Brothers album. This is the only live Beau Brummels album and it includes all the big hits, plus favourites from later years and 10 previously unreleased Ron Elliott songs!

On a related note Dig also reissues two albums from SAL VALENTINO the famed lead singer of The Beau Brummels and manic front man for 70's psychedelic-funk-rock madmen Stoneground. "Positively 12th And K" and "Every Now And Then"
have been unavailable in the UK for years and are well worth checking out if you like either of his previous outfits.

In 1986 Fuzztones members Michael Jay, Deb O'Nair and Rudi Protrudi Set up as the legendary Fuzztones side project LINK PROTRUDI AND THE JAYMEN. Playing blistering garage/surf punk in their own right, the band also functions as a tribute
to Link Wray and the Raymen, with no less than eight f the 25 tunes on this "Best Of" album (Go Down) being Link classics, blasted out live in a four track studio. It sounds particularly perfect on this limited vinyl LP pressing!

Americana fans would do well to take note of the following:

Quite honestly, it's rare you will hear Americana quite as glorious as THE WHISKEY PRIEST and his "Wave And Cloud" album (Rainboot). The Whiskey Priest is Austin, Texas based songwriter Seth Woods. Gathering with a small group of friends in a downtown church attic in 2006, a handful of songs were recorded to Alex's four track tape machine. These became the beginnings of the album finally saw its completion in 2009, and its eventual release in August 2010. The band’s swirl of guitar and keys ebbs and flows into Seth's versatile vocal delivery, bridging dissonance and joy in a manner that recalls acts like Iron And Wine and Wilco at their reflective best.

One of the great missing chapters of Americana music history can now be rediscovered with the long-awaited reissue of the classic debut album by the legendary group THE BLUE SHADOWS. "On The Floor of Heaven" is considered by many of those who got to hear it upon its initial release in 1993 as one of the great, unheralded achievements of the alt-country movement. Out of print for more than 15 years, the roots rock masterpiece is now reissued as a two-disc Deluxe Edition via Bumstead Records. Alongside the classic 12-track album with remastered audio is full disc of outtakes and cover songs including tracks originally recorded by George Jones, Merle Haggard and Joni Mitchell.

Guitarist DAVE GLEASON is highly rated by the mighty Dave Alvin and you can hear why on his new “Turn And Fade” album (326 Records). Like you would expect this is deep country rooted in the influences of Merle Travis and Waylon Jennings but it has a certain world weary edginess that would appeal to fans of Tom Petty or….The Blasters. Which brings us back full circle I think!

New Cooking Vinyl signee JACKIE GREENE has three albums reissued this month on the Dig label. “Gone Wondering”, “Rusty Nails” and “The Dig Years” are all well worth checking out, and their melding of Dylan, Springsteen, Son House, Muddy Waters Tom Waits and Howlin' Wolf influences show you why the guy has recently won the Best Roots Award at the Californian Music awards.

Grateful Dead aficionados should not overlook the BORIS GARCIA “Once More Into The Bliss” album (Burnside) Inspired by their predecessors: The Grateful Dead / New Riders Of The Purple Sage, Boris Garcia has cleverly twisted the free-form spirit of the Jam Band scene with folk, jazz, blues and the joyous fluidity of Bluegrass music to forge their own sound. The album features guest appearances from Buddy Cage (New Riders) and Donna Jean-Godchaux-MacKay (Grateful Dead).

Dead Heads will also like DONNA JEAN AND THE TRICKSTERS, a band legendary for its Grateful Dead covers, unites a host of Dead alumni on their new self titled release (Burnside). Donna Jean Godchaux-MacKay, member of the
Grateful Dead (1971-1979) and nationally acclaimed back-up vocalist at Muscle Shoals Studios fronts this roots-rockin band that features seven-part harmonies and top-shelf musicianship.

Generic Punk labels come and go but the mighty Deranged label has no less than ten quality new releases this month that show the breadth and diversity of the labels roster to it’s full extent…

The BLOODY GEARS self titled 7” has to be the debut single of the year, recalling as it does mid west legends of yesteryear like Husker Du and Articles Of Faith, with an added touch of ‘Over The Edge’ era Wipers, all topped off with some gritty Leatherface style vocals. Superb stuff!

After 3 critically acclaimed 7”s, Vancouver’s WHITE LUNG deliver their fantastic debut album "It's The Evil" CD/LP. Mix the punk venom of some of the better riot grrrl bands of the 90’s with the guitar noodling and tempo of UK Post Punk by way of Drive Like Jehu/Hot Snakes and you will get an idea of the WL sound.

San Francisco’s YOUNG OFFENDERS' first full LP "Leader Of The Followers" has eight tightly-knit, dancey songs that don't fit into any particular subgenre. It will appeal to fans of kindred spirits like Mission Of Burma, Eddy Current
Suppression Ring and Deranged label mates Airfix Kits.

BURNING LOVE started in 2007 as a side project to Cursed and Our Father, with the intention of making some loud and riff driven punk songs and mixing together the sounds of their varying favourites (from Black Flag and Hot Snakes to Kyuss or Turbonegro). BL has since taken to the front burner, touring at home and overseas and releasing two EPs and now, their Songs For Burning Lovers LP.

Following in the footsteps of some true legends we have another hardcore great from the Boston region. MALE NURSES mix the Midwest hardcore sound of the 80’s with the South California mood of the same era on their great self titled 7".

MOTHER’S CHILDREN’s “That’s Who” LP is straight forward power pop reminiscent of legends like The Boys and Teenage Head, whilst sitting comfortably alongside contemporary acts like The Cute Lepers.

MATURE SITUATIONS the band, was borne of the need to trivialize the grievances and tribulations of the elderly, so as to anger karma and pre-emptively flip off the inevitable Viagra snorting, hip-replacing, sour-milk-smelling future of all men. The 4 new songs on their "Old Hands" 7", are housed in a familiar looking sleeve pastiche that old punks will recognise instantly...

Anyone who saw the RED DONS ferocious UK live shows a couple of years ago will want to check out their excellent new LP “Fake Meets Failure”. Combining TSOL-like vocals, So Cal punk rage, and the defiant melancholy of Pacific North Westerners the Wipers, this powerful release rises above the stack of contemporaries that take on the early 80s punk sound.

Canadian Punks the STATUES third album "Holiday Cops" , round off an exceptional month for Deranged with the three Pop-Punk scientists in the band refining their formula whilst pouring in some drops of Devo and Spits influences that foam over with joy, heart, guts and splendid melodies!

Legendary Irish punk act PARANOID VISIONS have a new 7” “Strobelight And Torture” (Foad) out this month, this release precedes their anthology cd on Overground Records and live slots with Crass legend Steve Ignorant and at the Rebellion Festival.

“Ignorance Is This” (Tns) is the second album from Norfolk’s FAINTEST IDEA. They play fast punk mixed with 2 Tone ska. The band is currently on tour in Europe and will be touring extensively in UK to support the release. If you like Operation Ivy or The Filaments then do yourself a favour and check them out!

"Agroculture" (Tns) is the long awaited second release from North-West punk band THE KIRKZ Since forming in 1998 the Kirkz have played over 250 gigs across the UK, including the last 5 Rebellion festivals, and are well established in the UK punk scene with their Rise Against meets Anti Flag style Punk Rock.

Back to the Rock…And finally the time has come for highly touted Finnish Doom Metallers GARDEN OF WORM to release their debut full self titled length album (Shadow Kingdom). Since 2004 they've been slowly putting out demos and Eps but this debut really allows the band to experiment and carve out their own unique brand of Heavy / Progressive Doom Metal, the resulting slab should appeal to fans of Reverend Bizarre, Revelation, Old Rush and Black Sabbath.

On their 2nd album "The Passage" (Shadow Kingdom) IRON MAN added a new singer, Dan Michalak and he took them to the top of their game. This release includes a re-mastered version of the original release, plus a bonus promo video of the song “Iron Warrior”, and a separate DVD that includes a ton of live stuff. All in all a lovely set of Classic Black Sabbath styled Doom Metal.

MANILLA ROAD the grandfathers of Epic Metal are truly a remarkable band in the history of Heavy Metal. The new reissue "After Midnight Love" (Shadow Kingdom) marks a time period before the release of their first album "Invasion". This 1979 radio show recording has all the unreleased Manilla Road songs fans are dying to hear. These songs represent the "Invasion" sound and the start of one of the most influential Heavy Metal bands ever…

CROWNED IN EARTH was formed by Kevin Lawry in 2008. After forming his own Death / Doom band, Silent Winter, Kevin decided to venture more into the traditional side of Doom and Epic Doom Metal, drawing his main influences from Reverend Bizarre, Cathedral, and Black Sabbath. With the recruitment of drummer Darin McCloskey and the addition of some more leftfield influences such as The Obsessed and Italian Horror church organs, debut album "Visions Of The Haunted" (Shadow Kingdom) started to take shape. The result is a latter day Doom classic.

And in this age of Z list celebrity karaoke, please don’t forget that Britain has also got real talent, and support the following…

Following the release of two critically acclaimed EP’s VOODOO JOHNSON release their debut album 10,000 Horses (Polarian) to huge anticipation from the rock world.
The band was nominated as 2010 Ones To Watch by Classic Rock Magazine and will be appreciated by fans of Alice In Chains, Wolfmother, Monster Magnet, Audioslave and Metallica.

FRENCH FOR CARTRIDGE are back with the LP release of their latest album “Liquorice” (Dinner With Daisy) Now available as an eagerly awaited and beautifully designed, limited gatefold vinyl edition. Formed as an attempt to create atonal pop music whilst at Goldsmiths, the band has garnered support from Rob Da Bank/BBC Radio 1, Artrocker and The Wire.

WESTFIELD MINING DISASTER's founder Paul Towler, described as 'a west country Lou Reed' by some, has been making records since the late 80's.
The Westfield Mining Disaster, formed in 2006, add a modern twist to their indie-pop roots, drawing influences from country and soul. Their album "Big Ideas From Small Places" (Cider City) features superbly crafted jangle-pop songs bearing the spirit of punk, the soul-bearing warmth of country and a wry political edge.

EXIT STATE are a young band from Burnley who rather impressively show off their Foo Fighters and Nirvana influenced chops on the “Death Of A Rockstar” album and “Bad Days” EP (King Prawn). A band to watch for the future for sure…

Thanks for dropping by, and please remember all these releases are available from all quality Independent retailers…

Code 7.

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Too busy watching football and crying in your beer, never mind we have plenty to take your minds off the “Beautiful Game”….

ROCKET FROM THE TOMBS – “I SELL SOUL” (SMOG VEIL)
This 2-song 7” is the latest from Rocket From The Tombs. Originally formed in 1974, this is the first new material recorded by the band and the first release by the band since ‘Rocket Redux’, the follow-up release to the band’s definitive retrospective, ‘The Day The Earth Met The…’. Representing their first new recordings of new material since 1975 if features founders David Thomas (Pere Ubu) and Cheetah Chrome (Dead Boys), along with Richard Lloyd (Television)
Strictly limited to 2000 units on black vinyl and housed in a beautiful full-colour, fully recycled sleeve.

SONIC BOOM SIX “Rude Awakening" (Rebel Alliance) is the first ever compilation from the Manchester based Punk genre raiding terrorists. Featuring twelve carefully selected tracks culled from the bands many releases to date, this album is also the first ever vinyl release for the band. Limited to 500 copies that are all hand numbered this will sell out in a flash...you know what to do!

DIRTY REVOLUTION are a female-fronted 4-piece from Cardiff whose fierce brand of rebel music is about ready to ignite. Their unique, song-based punky reggae fits perfectly in alongside the inventive creative energy of the UK’s burgeoning underground punk and ska scene as well as providing a nod to the old-school attitude of bands like The Slits and Selecter. Uplifting, fiery and
topical, their stunning debut album ‘Before The Fire’ (Rebel Alliance) is ready to burn their way into the public’s hearts and minds.

THE SKINTS are the fastest rising new band from the UK punk scene and have been championed by the King Blues and Sonic Boom Six. Despite no PR when their album "Live Breathe Build Believe" album was released last December, the first pressing sold out in record time and The Skints have since graduated from support act to selling out tours of their own. Anyway finally the album is now back in print and re-released on the bands own Bomber Music label. If you need further reason to stock up, then the band are currently on tour with The Slackers across Europe and have a second UK headline tour throughout June followed by numerous UK festival appearances this July and August.

DIGITAL UNDERGROUND announced in 2008 that the group was disbanding and soon after released their final full-length studio album. But a few audio gems remained stashed away in the D-Flow archives, and are presented on The Greenlight EP (Jake Records). This fun and eclectic collection of Digital Underground tracks highlights all that was fun about the group. Whether recorded for previous albums and never used, or leftovers from other studio sessions, this collective of DU bubbles over with their trademark fun, funk-laced sound. The album features production from D.U. front man Shock G, as well as
David Banner and Dotrix 4000. Guest vocalists include 2Pac, Numskull of The Luniz, and J Stalin.

In 2009 ALTAR OF PLAGUES released their first album via Profound Lore. "White Tomb" which was described by a number of critics as one of 2009's best and most exciting releases. Since then the band have toured extensively throughout Europe, released an EP on Roadburn and have just signed to Candlelight. Before any new material emerges, their first EP “Sol” originally released in 2008 and long since deleted, is finally getting re-issued on the Radar Swim label. Quite simply if you are a fan of Wolves In The Throne Room, In The Woods, Early Ulver, Mogwai, early Isis etc then you must hear this record!

With releases on Hydrahead Records, Frank Kozik's famed Man's Ruin, and the mighty Southern Lord Records, GOATSNAKE should be considered one of the quintessential stoner/doom bands of their time and as such we are proud to
present the 180 gram gold vinyl European version of their debut full length album ("1"), 7” (Man of light) and EP (Dog Days). This awesome collection of the first Goatsnake recordings is available on vinyl for the first ever time courtesy of our friends at the Burning World label and is housed in a beautiful gatefold jacket featuring detailed liner notes and rare photos of the band from the late nineties.

Gather round for a great trip back in time; for the sounds of Thin Lizzy, Free and AC/DC are gathered together again on "II" the second album by STONE AXE (Burning World). The debut album of this band, which was loaded with top quality early seventies rock with balls rocked a lot of socks off, and this new album builds upon that with more quality song writing and riffs that Messrs Kossoff, Young or Robertson/Gorham would have been proud of!

Totally sold out since 2005 KNUT's "Challenger" (Division) is finally reissued this month on beautiful 180gram Orange coloured vinyl complete with printed coloured inner sleeves and an outer Gatefold sleeve. It is limited to 500 copies worldwide though, so if you have worn out your original copy or have never heard the album and have grooved to Converge, Botch, Neurosis or Kiss It Goodbye then be quick and secure yourself a copy!.

With huge support amongst both the press and the Metal community at large ARTHEMIS are the unexpected outsiders come good in the UK Rock scene right now. With their grove, incendiary guitar work and the best material they have
ever released, there's real vitality at the heart of new album "Heroes" (Helvette & Hate). There is very much an epic, yet heavy and modern thrash stance at play on the new album and it is striking that claims that the band can now be viewed shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Megadeth, Judas Priest, Metallica, Dio, Iron Maiden and Yngwie Malmsteen, are not too far off the mark for once.

Hailing from their hometown of Aldershot, MIDGAR have promoted themselves up and down the country, doing so on their own terms and winning fans at every new show, leading to support slots with bands such as Deaf Havana, Lower Than Atlantis, Canterbury and Fei Comodo. Now Midgar are building on this momentum, with the release of their new, self produced mini-album “Lead Your Children To The Sky”(Rocket Town) , which is sure to show just how quickly they are evolving in to what has to be a band to watch for the new decade.

JAMES APOLLO's music recalls Ennio Morricone’s spaghetti-western themes, a grizzled Tom Waits-ian fervour and the warming tones of Richard Hawley. New album "Til Your Feet Bleed" (No Alternative) couples these disparate influences with the literary influence of William Faulkner and Flannery O’Connor to create a coherent body of Americana at its most romantically sunset-strewn and desolate. One listen and it is easy to see why BBC6 and XFM are already adding the album to their playlists.

Even the most discerning Reggae fan will do a double take at the sound of the
long awaited reissue of the first AGGROLITES album “Dirty Reggae” (Axe Records). Why? Because this recording sounds so original many have mistaken it for actual classic reggae cuts from the Trojan or Studio One vaults. With a distinctively LA sound, the Aggros have put west coast reggae on the map and have been signed to Hellcat Records for their past 3 albums. An excellent live show and several UK/European tours should further boost new demand for this
fine, fine album.

For the past 30 years HAJI MIKE, dub poet and lyricist, activist and journalist, has been speaking the truth as he sees it about the world around us. On this new release Haji teams up with London based producer DUB CARAVAN on a unique full-length album titled ‘Virtual Oasis’ (Dub Med). This album sounds like vintage Linton “Kwesi” Johnson or Mutaburuka recorded in the 1970’s, laced with some current Reggae and Dub flavours including a distinct world sound.

DUB LIKE AN ANTELOPE - Legends of Reggae Celebrate Phish (Red Hillz) is from the same phenomenal producer, Henry K, who also oversaw the wildly successful "Fire On The Mountain – Reggae Celebrates The Grateful Dead". Henry brings that top quality level of production along with true legends of Reggae music including Toots and The Maytals, Steel Pulse and Bob Andy to the table giving fans of Phish and Reggae a lot to celebrate.

BILL ORTIZ has been a member of Carlos Santana’s touring band since 2000. Carlos Santana states, “Bill articulates the beautiful language of jazz without loosing the purity and innocence of a child. It’s a wonderful experience to share
music every night with him”. New album "From Where I Stand" (Tangent) features 13 original compositions that will appeal to all tastes as he transcends his unique Neo-Soul and Nu-Jazz styles and Funk influences.

The Reissue department is as busy as ever…

Smog Veil is a fascinating label that seeks to document the Proto Punk scene that sprung up in Ohio during the Seventies. Key players in the scene such as Devo, Pere Ubu and Dead Boys deservedly went on to achieve international notoriety.
However many other great acts did not and these collections seek to give the acts some critical reappraisal from beyond the grave…

First up are the EASTER MONKEYS Who are generally accepted amongst the Cleveland cognoscenti as the best rock ‘n’ roll band calling the city home in the early to mid 1980’s. Rock ‘n’ roll in the sense of the hybrid beast that Cleveland is known for. The band was fronted by ex-Kneecappers Chris Yarmock, bassist Charlie Ditto, with Jim Jones (Pere Ubu) amazingly creepy guitar work and Linda Hudson’s basement beat. The “Splendor Of Sorrow” release collects up the band’s lone LP, comp tracks, unreleased stuff and a DVD of a 1982 gig.

The “Before Security” anthology release should finally put TIN HUEY in their place as progenitors of the quirky Akron sound later expounded by both Devo and The Bizzaros. This release collects up the bands earliest recordings, spanning the years 1974-1979, including the first ever recordings of the line-up that became known as The Waitresses.

PISTOL WHIP was the first ever punk band from Erie, PA and have all their surviving material anthologised on the double “Terminal” set. It includes their lone 7-inch on Endangered Species, released in 1977, which is a scorcher and a prized collectible. The band moved to Chicago in 1978, and recorded a 10-song demo, also included here. The band later changed their name to The Swingers, whose output included a sought-after 7-inch and an appearance on Twin Tone’s ‘Big Hits Of Mid-America’ compilation. The DVD contains wild 8mm footage from back in the day plus interviews, photos, and more. Superb!

Finally gathered in one definitive Box Set are all five volumes of the groundbreaking series of British psych and freakbeat compilations "CHOCOLATE SOUP FOR DIABETICS" (Past And Present).
Boasting no fewer than 82 classic tracks, the set spans established classics by Tintern Abbey, Apple, The Tickle, The Smoke, Fleur De Lys and others, as well as gems by lesser-known artists such as The Perishers, Graded Grains, The Australian Playboys and many more. Also included with the five cds is a lavish
full colour booklet, offering discographies and histories of every act, as well as many rare photographs. This is one boxed set that no fan of classic British underground music can be without!

“TALKING ABOUT THE GOOD TIMES VOLUME 1” (Past And Present) Is an interesting collection of rarities, rare acetates and scarce unreleased tracks from 5 Gentlemen, Smoke, East of Eden, Young Flowers, Orange Peel and others. The whole album is just a groove fest, so we highly recommend checking it out. As ever it's all packaged with Comprehensive liner notes and this has to the definitive version of this classic psychedelic compilation.

“ELECTRIC ASYLUM VOLUME 5” (Past And Present) is the last instalment of the Electric Asylum series, featuring an eternally-immoral cast of freak beat players such as Tracey Dean, Colonel Bagshot, Biggles and Iron Horse. Groovy.

“PICCADILLY SUNSHINE PART 4” (Past And Present) Yes ; The Piccadilly Sunshine series once more sets foot into the deep and wondrous valleys of British Pop music culture. Daring to bring forth the once overlooked and sadly neglected songs that were laid to waste in a saturated wonderland
of suburban teenage pop. Step amongst the twenty flower-powered trippers here, and find long lost gems from the likes of Barry Ryan, Lace and The Laurels all restored to their former glory.

“PSYCH BITES VOLUME 2” (Past And Present) throws up a melting pot of twisted mantras and wide-eyed rockers that are almost religiously defined by the
volume of their fuzz boxes. This global garden of unearthly delights hosts a variety of rare species including the honorary Spencer Mac and Decca’s African warriors Ofo and the Black Company. All in all another fine collection of hysteria for lovers of acid, fuzz and garage punk.

THE SMOKE This legendary self titled album was the brainchild of pop prodigy Michael Lloyd, a founder member of The West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band. Recorded in Hollywood, it consists of melodic and imaginative psychedelic-tinged pop, with clear Beatles and Beach Boys influences. Poor marketing ensured low sales on its original release in April 1968, but its reputation has never ceased to grow since. Find out why here with this definitive Kismet reissue.

One of the rarest major label US psych LPs ever released CHRISTOPHER’s hard-hitting, fuzz-laden collection of biker-rock and stoned ballads briefly appeared in a tiny press run in 1970. Recorded by the acid-fuelled Texas trio in California, it has gone on to become one of the era’s more legendary obscurities, with original copies selling for four-figure sums, and now makes its long-awaited return here on the new Kismet imprint..

Canadian three-piece TROYKA (Kismet) recorded a superb and utterly unconventional collection of hard psych-tinged rock, in 1968-69. Though it fell between the tracks on its release in 1970, it has gone on to be acclaimed as one
of the better obscurities of the era, and is reissued here complete with a band history.

Recorded by Long Island-based quartet STONEWALL in the late 1960s, but only issued without their knowledge in 1974, their one awesome LP is regarded by hard rock connoisseurs as one of the finest albums ever recorded in the genre. Only a handful of original copies have ever surfaced, meaning that its frantic blend of riff-laden songs, tough organ and relentless drumming has only been heard by a few...until now courtesy of our friends at Kismet.

If any of the above appeal then you should also pick up a copy of leading Psych bible SHINDIG. Issue 17 features the likes of Giles, Giles & Fripp, Lee Hazlewood, Bang and Captain Sensible.

And Don’t Forget The Punks !!!

Just about every great Cleveland hardcore band from 1988 onward owes something to FACE VALUE. Prior to stints in H-100’s and 9 Shocks Terror, front man Tony Erba delivered the goods with Face Value. The band played a defining role in the hardcore scene of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, turning out furious tunes at breakneck tempos and whipping crowds nationwide into a fine froth before calling it quits in 1993. The career spanning retrospective "Rode Hard, Put Away Wet" contains 31 songs plus an insane DVD of various live performances, photos etc.

Based in Reno, DEL MAR features noted Sublime drummer, Bud Gaugh. Del Mar is opening act this summer for the newly reunited and reformatted Sublime. Their debut CD "After The Quake" (Half Of Nothing), features a wide smorgasbord of slap happy musical styles from west coast raucous melodic skatepunk, surreal road-tripping sleaze, and energetic surf guitar twang. Imagine classic instrumental surf tunes blasting from a ‘49 Flathead Woody wagon interspersed with some true DIY Reno/LBC punk rock. No emo poser BS going on here!

GIMP FIST- “The Place I Belong” is classic British Street Punk akin to The Clash, Cock Sparrer, Angelic Upstarts and Crashed Out. Great slashing guitar riffs and fist in the air choruses are the name of the game here…

Some say the Punk label sampler is dead but we disagree and so do Fond Of Life Records, a small but dedicated Punk label from Germany. Since 2002 they have released CDs by hardworking, anti-racist, anti-prejudice and anti-sexist bands. To celebrate their 40th release they are issuing a low price comp called "THIS IS FOND OF LIFE VOLUME TWO". It features German bands but also artists from the UK like Mike Scott and Phinius Gage, from France like Straightway and M-Sixteen, from the Netherlands like Antillectual, from Canada like This Is A Standoff and High five Drive amongst others.

And some mellower vibes…

KASEY ANDERSON 's latest full length release, Nowhere Nights (Red River) is filled with the same brand of evocative, literate lyricism that marked the gifted songwriter's critically-lauded albums, Dead Roses and The Reckoning - earning
Anderson widespread praise from the likes of Paste and No Depression. But after surveying the decaying American social and political landscape, the gifted writer now chronicles his own personal and artistic coming of age, conveyed with
grace and gravity over the course of eleven songs about the things people carry and the things they leave behind. One for Steve Earle / Guy Clark fans this…

After seven critically-acclaimed traditional blues releases , NICK MOSS is taking a fresh approach and heading in an exciting new direction on new album "Privileged" (Blue Bella). Taking the nod from legends such as Led Zeppelin, The Allman Brothers, Free, Jimi Hendrix, ZZ Top, and Cream who in turn also drew their inspiration from Mississippi's Delta and Chicago, Moss has written some of the finest songs of his career, and stretched out beyond his traditional blues idiom.

JAMES APOLLO’s “Til Your Feet Bleed" (No Alternative) was largely written under a tree in the Utah Canyons, within the shadows of Butch Cassidy’s favoured hideout. Lyrically informed by William Faulkner and Flannery O’Connor’s Southern prose, Apollo’s music recalls Ennio Morricone’s spaghetti-western themes, all grizzled with a Tom Waits-ian fervour, and the lush, warming tones of Richard Hawley. It’s a curious combination of influences, but it just works creating some of the most romantically sunset-strewn and desolate American we have heard for quite some time…

And don’t forget Britain has real talent!

PEACHFUZZ are a group of Welsh lads steeped in the song writing influences and attitude of seminal acts like Big Star, Replacements, Teenage Fan Club and Crazy Horse. Their debut album “Everything Takes Forever” (Bombed Out) is a nice take on that sound – coming on like a Welsh Hold Steady in places. Nice!

“Widow Country” (Shark City) is the new release from Newcastle’s LAVOTCHKIN. With previous EP’s selling out and the band being on the road with a rigorous touring schedule, fans have been awaiting the bands next release with anticipation and they will not be disappointed. For fans of Cursed, Hope Conspiracy and Give Up The Ghost.

LEAGUES APART are from Salford and have already established themselves in the UK gigging circuit and undertook their first European tour this April. Their amazing debut “To Anywhere” (TNS) contains seven tracks of melodic punk which is a must have for fans of Lawrence Arms, Hot Water Music and Dillinger Four.

FROM PLAN TO PROGRESS is a melodic hardcore band based in Brighton. They have extensively toured the UK, Europe & Russia with bands including Strike Anywhere and A Wilhelm Scream. The band's second full length "Ink Stains & Incidents" (Fond Of Life) sees the band develop a more mature sound with more technical riffs & powerful choruses now complementing the bands
original late 90's skate punk influences.

Southampton pop-rock quintet NOT ADVISED release their eagerly anticipated self titled debut mini-album via LAB Records this month. One of the brightest and hardest working bands in the UK scene, this release comes on the back of two years on the road alongside the likes of You Me At Six, Parachute and Hit The Lights.

KYSHERA are an alternative Rock band from South Wales. Their debut album, the acclaimed 'Made in China' held the number 1 spot on the BBC's New Band's Chart for 6 weeks and was hailed as 'Warped Genius' by Radio 1. Having been
compared to bands such as Mars Volta & Muse, the bands unique blend of melody with sonic unpredictability on new album "Paradigm" (Konic) leaves the listener 'breathless', in the words of the Big Issue.

That is all we have time for now – Please remember that all these releases are available from all reputable Independent Store and Online outlets –

See you next month, All at Code 7.
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"For full vinyl listings please check the latest June issue of Decoded".

CODE 7 – JUNE 2010

Hello and thanks for popping by to check out our June Releases:

Only one place to start and that is with the soon to be classic “Semper Liberi”album from THE BLACKLIST ROYALS on Gunner Records. This great band have been likened to their former label mates The Gaslight Anthem but also at turns to a heartland-punk version of Rancid, the Hold Steady with less lyrics and more balls, and even Bruce Springsteen (although to our ears that is only if New Jersey’s finest had grown up behind the pool hall getting loaded with Mike Ness…). The song-writing and delivery are so good that the Royals can easily stand shoulder to shoulder with such legends and are standing proof that the great American rock and roll band is not a thing of the past. Just a great, great record: Buy it!

When we heard that Sylvain Sylvain, founding member of the New York Dolls and Cheetah Chrome, founding member of the Dead Boys had a new project called BATUSIS, we knew this would be a perfect recipe for a rock’n’roll ripper like none other. Then we heard their first release “Batusis” (Smog Veil)...and we are convinced, this is a no holds-barred shredder. However lets us allay your fears and also say that in no way is this a retro sounding act of veterans trying to reinvent their earlier work; the disc is brimming with youthful exuberance and a truly modern sound while still paying tribute to what made their most famous projects so much fun. Go find this immediately, but be quick: it's a one off silver vinyl pressing with a free download code included, and it is strictly limited to one pressing of just 2000 units...

Speaking of American Underground legends; this month sees the return of Jesus Lizard front man David Yow on a self titled 7” EP with Swiss trio VENTURA on the ever excellent Africantape label. Sounding akin to a cross between Metal Box era PIL and the mighty Lizard circa “Goat” this is one manic record that deserves to be heard… VENTURA’s second full length, called “We Recruit”, was recorded with Serge Morattel at REC Studio in Geneva during autumn 2009 and will also be released on Africantape on the same day. The album shows the more direct and focused side of Ventura’s music and is more sonically akin to early Helmet, Sonic Youth and Unwound. Excellent gear all round that really stands out from the crowd.

Post Rock Vinyl heads should rejoice for epic post-rock instrumental trio GOD IS AN ASTRONAUT return with their 5th studio album entitled "Age of the Fifth Sun". (Viva Hate). With a European tour taking place in May and June, demand is set to be especially high for this 180g vinyl pressing which is limited to 1000 copies and has an exclusive vinyl only bonus track...It’s scheduled for release on June 7th...you know what to do!

Vinyl heads with heavier tastes should be similarly quick off the mark in attempting to procure themselves a copy of the GOATSNAKE classic “Flower Of Disease” (Burning World) album which sees a limited pressing of just 750 copies on purple vinyl. The album was originally released on vinyl by Southern Lord in 2000 but has been long out of print. The double vinyl set “I + Dog Days” will also be re-released in July of 2010, and the massive reunion show at Roadburn 2010 will surely revive the interest in this cult doom band with Greg Anderson (Sunn o)))), Guy Pinhas (The Obsessed), Greg Rogers (The Obsessed) and Pete Stahl (Scream, Wool).

Happening Metal label Profound Lore proffer up another two beauties this month.

First up are CASTEVET and their “Mounds Of Ash” debut – Quite simply one of the most promising new bands out of the New York area in aeons. They fuse together post-hardcore, progressive, and black metal influences in a manner that conjures up similarly minded ground braking acts like VoiVod, Converge, Deadguy and Isis.

With releases on such previous labels as Century Media and Prosthetic Records, Chicago’s YAKUZA are one of the most celebrated avant-garde progressive metal bands today. And with their new album, “Of Seismic Consequence” (Profound Lore) they have delivered their darkest, heaviest, and best album of their storied career.

SABBATH ASSEMBLY are sometimes lazily described as Acid Folk, but there is more to them that that. On new album “Restored To One” (Ajna) at certain moments
the stunning female vocals and beautiful psychedelic backing music make them sound uncannily like the missing link between Fleet Foxes and vintage Jefferson Airplane. Way out in left field but well worth a listen in our opinion…

RIVER CITY EXTENSION was born in the coffee houses of Toms River, New Jersey - Founder member Joseph Michelini had the intention of writing orchestral indie rock, while introducing elements of Punk, Country, Folk, and World music to the sound. Eventually the band found itself going from a 3 piece acoustic act, and developing into a full 8-piece band. After a couple of DIY EP's and some heavy touring the band inked a deal with Xoxo Records (Home to The Gaslight Anthem, Let Me Run etc...) and the band’s debut album "The Unmistakeable Man" (Xoxo) is a must. Imagine the Wilco and Calexico catalogues being channelled by Beck whilst Tom Waits provides the lyrics…A truly fantastic album and one of the year’s most revelatory debuts. Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze obviously agrees as he even sings on a track having been impressed with RCE when the two bands played together...

In their former guise as Murray The Hump, THE KEYS recorded 3 sessions for John Peel, signed to Too Pure, were lauded by the NME for their ‘glorious jangle-pop’, counted Joe Strummer among their biggest fans and were the “ best band in Britain” according to Alex James and Damon Albarn of Blur. Now firmly re-established under their new name the band have been supporting Love legend Arthur Lee, and newer acts like Sleepy Sun and the Noisettes; as well as enjoying radio play on numerous BBC Radio shows. The Keys’ new album ‘Fire Inside’ (See Monkey Do Monkey) was self produced and shows that the Keys are right up there with the Super Furry Animals and Gorkys Zygotic Mynci as purveyors of high quality Welsh guitar pop.

Following up on the idea of close collaboration with other musicians and artists —
“Matador Remixed" (Expect Candy) feels like a natural and obvious next step for ARMS AND SLEEPERS. This vinyl only LP release features 9 remixes by
other artists and friends, and 1 remix by Arms and Sleepers themselves. Uzi & Ari, Lymbyc Systym, Amanda Rogers, Boy In Static/The Consulate General, The American Dollar, Nolens Volens, Thisquietarmy, Elika and Bogadiga all
contribute and help create quite a diverse album, from snippets of R&B and club music to mellower singer/songwriter moments to hypnotic electronica and trip hop-
induced tracks.

CHRIS LEO’S VAGUE ANGELS - "The Sunny Day I Caught..." - (Expect Candy) Chris Leo should need no introduction. With his two previous bands The Lapse and Van Pelt bands, Chris found underground success and had begun to lay the foundations, note by note, of what was to become Chris’ latest musical project, Vague Angels. Finally June sees Manhattan’s own wandering minstrel release this much-anticipated new album. Conjuring up the finest elements of Leo’s writing style – from the dissonant riff-based rock of The Lapse to the entrancing melodies of The Van Pelt. However some songs hark back to a sound more akin to The Velvet Underground. This album is Chris Leo’s finest accomplishment to date. Check it out.

AUXES is the brainchild of Dave Laney, best known as guitarist and founding member of Jade Tree bands Milemarker and Challenger. Their second LP “Ichkannnichtmehr” (Gunner Records) represents a shift in approach and in the life of its principal protagonist. In mid 2009, Dave Laney made the move overseas, now residing in his newly adopted hometown of Hamburg, Germany. Musically, this has resulted in a stripped-down, aggressive punk rock sound- fitting for a city where cop cars are routinely set on fire. The resultant new shifting line up of the band includes members of Milemarker and Challenger and adds a spontaneity and tension to the music lacking in most Post Punk music these days.

Musically NINJA GUN have more in common with 70’s power pop and Southern classic rock than punk rock, often turning gospel inspired melodies back on themselves with an attack from a powerful distorted riff, leaving you only to be
captured later by the memory of a chorus you just can’t shake. New album “Restless Rubes” (Gunner) is pop perfection. It is clean, loud, dynamic, and truly classic! It’s a powerful pop album in its truest sense. This is a sleeper album that years from now will be passed on from friend to friend and timelessly enjoyed.

EXTRA LIFE have recently played all over Europe, playing festivals including
Barcelona’s Primavera Sound and sharing bills with kindred spirits Sonic Youth, Sunn 0))), My Bloody Valentine and Deerhunter. Their excellent sophomore album "Made Flesh" is released by Africantape on Vinyl LP this month – the CD version is already available on Loaf Recordings.

Incongruous soundscapes, constantly exhilarating, challenging and highly innovative music are what you will hear from Norway’s finest TRINACRIA. On their new album “Travel Now Journey Indefinitely” the band’s line up features members of Enslaved, Fe-Mail and Emmerhoff. For the very first time on vinyl, presented on deluxe 180 gram vinyl in a gatefold sleeve with printed inner sleeve artwork. Ltd pressing of 500 units. If you are a fan of Enslaved, Neurosis, and / or Isis then get your orders in quickly...

Few are the ones in the current Black Metal scene who have the guts and, above all, the creativity to push the boundaries of the genre but that is precisely what English act
A FOREST OF STARS have done on their second album "Opportunistic Thieves of Spring" (Transcendental Creations) The quintuplet's sound will appeal to fans of Ved Buens Ende, In The Woods, Altar of Plagues and Burzum.

Hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, Black Metal act BOSSE-DE-NAGE are equal parts Slint, Darkthrone and Alcest. Flenser Records are proud to present the release of Bosse-de-Nage’s long delayed self-titled full-length album. Originally recorded in 2007 but never officially released this will have the Black Metal hordes salivating in anticipation.

The cult Belgian grind band AGATHOCLES release their "Peel Sessions" cd (Selfmadegod). A fifteen song blasting fistful of songs recorded at BBC Radio in London for the legendary John Peel's show back in 1997. The music is simply Agathocles: raw, minimalistic grind-punk with political lyrics. The booklet includes lyrics and liner notes about how the sessions were recorded.

Norwegian black metal veterans SVARTAHRID have walked the path of pure Norwegian black metal for over 16 years now. Now the time is right for the band to unleash their ultimate album “Ex inferi” (Soulseller). This will be an absolute
must-have album for all Norwegian black metal purists out there! Beware!

Already firmly established as firm favourites with the Worldwide Prog Rock fraternity MYSTERY were provided with a whole new army of fans when singer Benoit David was asked to join legendary Progressive Rock band Yes as their
new lead singer. New album "One Among The Living" (Unicorn Digital) is released as a digipack with a 28 page booklet and features great production and musicianship to put the band right at the pinnacle of their genre.

The reissue department is as busy as ever this month…

SECOND HAND – Vinyl LP pressing of the recent reissue of the prog/psych classic “Death May Be Your Santa Claus” (Sunbeam). This 180 g virgin vinyl release comes complete with a gatefold sleeve offering rare photographs, detailed liner notes and an introduction from its producer, the legendary Vic Keary.

CHILLUM’s self titled debut album (Sunbeam) is in fact the third recording by Second Hand, one of the UK’s most admired underground bands. Originally issued in a tiny run in December 1971, it is presented here in its definitive form on 18og vinyl, remastered from original tapes, with a packed gatefold sleeve offering rare photographs, detailed liner notes and an introduction from its producer, the legendary Vic Keary.

THE INGOES – “Before We Were The Blossom Toes” (Sunbeam) Recorded between 1964 and 1966, this is the first-ever collection of tracks by the quartet that would soon evolve into psychedelic heroes The Blossom Toes. Formed in London and managed by the Yardbirds’ manager they were tipped for major success but it never quite happened for them. This comprehensive set collects all their studio recordings, together with previously-unheard demos and rare live cuts. It all comes packaged with a full booklet featuring rare photos and detailed notes by guitarist Brian Godding.

Next up is a limited vinyl pressing of CAPTAIN BEYOND's second album "Sufficiently Breathless" (Timeless). Dating from 1973 and with a line up boasting Rod Evans (the first singer in Deep Purple) and two ex Iron Butterfly types this was
a fantastic psych/prog album featuring wonderful songs and dreamy arrangements. All now available on vinyl again for a limited time only.

Two classic Modern rockabilly collections “WESTERN STAR ROCKABILLIES VOLUME 1” and “WESTERN STAR ROCKABILLIES VOLUME 3” are being made available again this month by the fine Western Star label are accompanied by “WESTERN STAR PSYCHOBILLIES VOLUME 3” which features the harder edged Psychobilly acts on the Western Star label.

DON’T FORGET THE PUNKS I HEAR YOU CRY…AS IF!

First up is the news that leading UK Punk magazine BIG CHEESE joins us with its’ June issue. As ever it is a great read with interviews, features and reviews focusing on all things Punk and Punk related. Green Day is on the cover this month and the free cd includes heavy hitters like Gaslight Anthem and As I Lay Dying. A must stock item for all Punk / Alternative stockists…

On a more underground tip BURNING LOVE’s– “Don’t Ever Change” (Deranged) is a great 7” single of Stoner/Doom tinged Hardcore featuring members of Cursed and The Swarm.

Not Punk per se but the FEAR POWER GOD (Blackhouse) spoken word compilation features several veterans of the US Hardcore scene along with some celebrated cult authors…So how does a line up of Allen Ginsberg, Anton LaVey, Lydia Lunch, Charles Manson, Jello Biafra and Henry Rollins grab you? Read On!...Compiled and originally released on vinyl by Oxbow front man and Author Eugene S. Robinson for his now defunct label CFY Records back in the Eighties none of this material has ever before been released on CD.

AND DON’T FORGET… BRITAIN’S GOT SOME REAL TALENT!

Hertford quintet PROCEED formed in 2008, and their debut mini album ‘Curious Electric’ (Proceed) is the sound of a band truly in charge of their art, a point only emphasised by the fact that the album was self funded, produced and recorded.
Their DIY approach and fierce live shows have alerted the likes of Kerrang and Rock Sound to the band of late and the future looks to be a bright one for the band. Innovative and original this is one for fans Minus the Bear, Circa Survive, Incubus and Coheed & Cambria.

The DIY spirit lives on in the winners of the ‘Glastonbury Emerging Talent’ Competition MY LUMIARIES who release their debut album ‘Order From The Chaos’ through their DIY label Cottage Industries/Josaka. The band recently won a slot at this year’s Glastonbury festival through winning a Q magazine contest. Judges
Who raved about the band included Emily Eavis and Q Editor Paul Rees. The band will also be touring to support the album release as well as playing at the legendary Mudfest.

Formed in Ipswich late in 2005, CLOACA features Chris Naughton of critically acclaimed UK Doom Metal band Atavist (Profound Lore) and the English Heritage Black Metal band Winterfylleth (Candlelight). Their debut album ’Lassitude’ (Lone Vigil) demonstrates the bands ability to make movements out of songs. The listener is taken on a journey from bleak, cinematic soundscapes to epic, dark industrial metal. With sterling support slots with acts as diverse as ’Nadja’ and ’Wolves In The Throne Room’ behind them Cloaca are now very much a force to be reckoned with.

THIS FAMILIAR SMILE formed in Cumnock, in rural Scotland, 65 miles from Glasgow. Following their first EP the band toured around the U.K as well as making an appearance at T in the Park. Their new album "Ribbons, Regards And The More Machine” (Lockjaw) carries the influence of a lot of old school ‘Emo’ acts such as Sunny Day Real Estate, Mineral, Braid, Shudder To Think and At The Drive-In.

'I Can't Stand Pop Bands' (Lab Records) is the triumphant return from Brighton pop/rock quartet MIMI SOYA. It is the eagerly anticipated follow up to their debut record 'The Four Penny Knee Trembler' which sold more than 5,000 copies worldwide.

Thanks for reading and hope to see you all again next month,

Code7.
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Hello Again and thanks for dropping by to check out our May titles...

As has become recent custom we start with a belter from the Profound Lore stable of bands…Formed by former Thralldom / current Unearthly Trance mastermind Ryan Lipynsky after the demise of the former , THE HOWLING WIND have already shaped themselves up to be one of the best and most important acts within the U.S. Black Metal movement. Cult legends Thralldom were one of the very first U.S. Black Metal bands to spearhead the whole U.S. scene and new album "Into The Cryosphere" pretty much expands Lipynsky’s black metal vision incurred with that band and takes it to an even more devastating level... Theirs is a barren vision filtered through a noisy, doom-filled, harsh, and extreme old school black metal pedigree that takes cue from such legends as Bathory, Celtic Frost, Darkthrone and Autopsy, all whilst upholding Lipynsky’s signature style. Excellent stuff.

Already named by Terrorizer magazine as one of the most anticipated releases of 2010, COFFINWORM's "When All Become None" (Profound Lore) does not disappoint as it whips up a diabolical storm that embodies a vile-sounding mix of Eyehategod, Deathspell Omega and Unearthly Trance. Indeed it is an album that will stand as one of the heaviest, most destructive and powerful releases of this, or any other, year. It is an epic sonic apocalyptic nightmare of unholy proportions that delivers to the utmost devastating effect. If the downfall and destruction of humanity really is at hand “When All Became None” shall serve as its soundtrack. Truly Apocalyptic!

The reissue department is in overdrive this month…

With media interest in Sixties Garage Punk and the 13th Floor Elevators in particular at all time high, it is a great time for the "TEXAS FLASHBACKS VOLUMES 1-6" (Psychic Circle) Box Set to emerge. The Lone Star State was home to a disproportionate number of fine garage, psych and punk bands in the 1960s and this stupendous boxed set gathers together no fewer than 95 of their greatest moments, culled from some of the rarest singles ever issued. This is a truly essential purchase for all fans of snarling, snotty, sneering rock and roll. The packed 6-CD boxed set features digital re-masters of all six legendary vinyl compilations in one box and features 95 classic tracks along with a 32-page booklet. It’s Beautiful Man!

Following their January 1968 top ten hit Nobody But Me, THE HUMAN BEINZ remained big stars in Japan, where they toured in March 1969. Unbeknownst to the band "In Japan" (Sunbeam) an album of live performances taped on the tour was issued in Japan shortly after their return to America. Long established as one of the rarest records in the world, it makes its CD debut here, complete with detailed liner notes and a new interview with guitarist Ting Markulin, and shows the Beinz to have been as fine a psychedelic garage band onstage as they were in the studio.

MIGHTY BABY is one of the best-loved bands to have emerged from Britain’s late 1960s underground, and "Tasting The Life - Live 1971" (Sunbeam) is the fullest live record of them in existence. Taped as they opened for Quintessence in 1971 the set finds the quintet poised between the driving psychedelia of their 1969 debut and the more contemplative sound of their second and final album, ‘A Jug Of Love’. It’s rounded off by two tracks recorded at Glastonbury in June 1971 and comes complete with a booklet featuring rare images and notes from band members making it an essential artefact for the Babe’s many admirers. This two x 180 g vinyl set comes in a lavishly illustrated gatefold sleeve with liner notes and a special insert containing rare concert handbills.

"MIND EXPANDERS VOLUME 3" (Past And Present) offers up the rarest, most funky, weird and downright excellent instrumental tracks in existence. From the voodoo intro to the lilting finish there's every mind expanding vibe in between, a cosmic blast of psychedelic, exotic, go go, groovy tunes with lots of strings, tribal beats and fuzzed out guitars and some gorgeous vocal harmonies. It's beyond words, just listen – before reading the accompanying mind expanding full colour booklet.

“PICCADILLY SUNSHINE VOLUME 3” (Past And Present) once again sets foot into the deep and wondrous valleys of British Pop music culture. Daring to bring forth the once overlooked and sadly neglected songs that were laid to waste in a saturated wonderland of suburban teenage pop of the late Sixties and early Seventies. The twenty rediscovered flower powered trippers presented here, have all been lovingly restored to their former glory, and as always this series is accompanied by a full-colour booklet and detailed sleevenotes.

Three cornerstones of late Sixties/early Seventies British rock have beautiful limited beautiful Vinyl reissues released this month courtesy of the excellent Timeless imprint. First up is AUDIENCE’s classic 1970 album “Friends, Friends, Friends” LP. Followed by EDGAR BROUGHTON BAND’s seminal “Sing Brother Sing” platter from 1970 and, probably best of all, FAMILY’s legendary second album “Entertainment” from 1969. All of these have a massively limited pressing, so please get those orders in quickly!

The Sunbeam Master series is a new series of deluxe cds from the leading Psych reissue label. Each is limited to 1000 numbered copies and presented in a mini LP style gatefold sleeve, complete with a full colour booklet and archive bonus material. The first six titles involved are THE OPEN MIND “The Open Mind”, SECONDHAND “Reality”, LINDA PERHACS “Parallelograms”, SYNANTHESIA “Synanthesia”, BLOSSOM TOES “We Are Ever So Clean” and MAGIC MIXTURE “This Is...”. Again we would stress these titles are massively limited so please get those orders in quickly!

If any of those fine reissues tickled your fancy then we implore you to pick up a copy of Issue 16 of SHINDIG! magazine – the bi-monthly guide to psych, garage, prog, power pop, soul, folk etc and is a real alternative for older music fans who find that the mainstream magazines just don’t cut it anymore…This month’s issue has features on Paul Revere & The Raiders, Caravan, The Shoes, Granny’s Intentions and Sun Dial.

Moving back to heavier climes and Irish organic black metal horde ALTAR OF PLAGUES who have a new 2 song opus entitled "Tides" on Burning World Records. Available on both cd and as a lavish gatefold Vinyl LP. The band believe it is their ‘darkest’ material yet and having heard a taster we would not disagree - Think of Isis circa ‘Panopticon’ or Cult of Luna at their heaviest and you will be in the right sonic ballpark.

Everybody’s favourite Japanese stoner/sludge outfit CHURCH OF MISERY will finally release their 2009 night show at Roadburn on LP this month (Roadburn). The cd came out last year but now you can capture a glimpse of this unholy show on a limited LP pressing...

Very few bands evoke such awe and inspiration as ARCANA, the Swedish act driven by the now legendary talent of Peter Bjärgö. Arcana have been at the forefront of the so called Neo Classical / Heavenly Voices movement with their poignant, ethereal and medieval inspired music since their very first album, Dark Age Of Reason was released in 1996. “The First Era 1996-2002” (Cyclic Law) is a 4CD box set that includes the first 4 albums with bonus tracks taken from various compilations and mini albums covering the early days of this unique act. The first 3 albums have also been carefully Re Mastered and all four CDs are housed in separate sleeves, along with a 40 page booklet relating Arcana's early days and it is all packaged up in a rigid cardboard box. Be quick though; this box set is limited to just 2000 copies!

Stoner/Doom reissue specialist label Shadow Kingdom goes into overdrive with
Ten releases this month…

DRAGON SLAYER – Long forgotten band from the N.W.O.B.H.M. era whose demos and rare recordings are finally un-earthed from the early 80’s and collected on this self titled cd for the first time ever.
PALE DIVINE – “Crimson Tears” legendary Maryland Doom metaller’s first demo comes to cd for the first time Re-mastered with rare bonus tracks with liner notes.
STONE GARDEN – In the late 60’s there wasn’t much heavier than this amazing self titled Heavy Psychedelic / Acid Rock album from the US - Probably the heaviest songs around worldwide before Sabbath emerged over the pond – It contains five extra bonus songs too!.
ASYLUM – “The Earth Is The Insane Asylum” legendary Maryland Doom metaller’s first demo comes to cd for the first time Re-mastered with bonus tracks.
THE LORD WEIRD SLOUGH FEG –“The Slay Stack Grows” – is a double cd collection of early recordings by the San Franciscan/Pennsylvanian Folk Metal overlords.
THE HAND OF DOOM – “Poisonnoise” a double cd anthology of the incredible German band that were very similar to the early NWOBHM acts in their combining of Punk and Heavy Rock influences.
REVELATION “Release” A new album from the veteran Maryland Doomsters.
JAMESON RAID “Just As The Dust Has Settled” is another anthology of a classic NWOBHM. band that fell under the radar.
SERPENT’S KNIGHT ‘Silent Knight’ is a double cd set anthology of Warrel Dane’s first band before Sanctuary and Nevermore.
And finally there is “The Principal Extinction” a splendid new album from Canadian 80’s styled Black/Heavy Metal band DEMONTAGE

Don’t forget the Punks I hear you cry…As if…

LANDSCAPES Are a Bristol based hardcore band hitting out hard on their amazing debut EP "Reminiscence"(Broken Night). An absolute must for fans of the new school hardcore sound acts like Have Heart, Comeback Kid, Give Up The Ghost and Modern Life is War…

BAYONETTES - Toronto's reigning kings and queens of pop-tinged punk rock make a full tilt return with their new 7” EP “We're Doomed” (Deranged) which sees the band firing up the same melodic fervour and monumental that marked their previous releases.

BURNING LOVE Feature members of Cursed, Left For Dead and Swarm, and whilst their “Demo” 7” (Deranged) it’s definitely more punk than Cursed it is still rooted in that bands stoner/doomy metal hardcore sound.

STATUES Have a repress of their splendid “New People Make Us Nervous” LP out too (Deranged) Coming on like a snotty mix of Smalltown mod punk, Tranzmitors pop punk and Briefs snot punk but with an unexpected Jawbreaker-esque quality to the lyrics.

WHITE LUNG – “Atlanta” (Deranged) is the third 7” from the Vancouver band featuring 3 new songs. More of the same excellent Riot Grrrl meets early UK punk. Indeed at their best they sound like Bikini Kill doing a cover of Minor Threat's cover of Wire's "12XU".

KEVIN SECONDS / MIKE SCOTT – “Split” (Fond Of Life)The mighty 7 Seconds frontman Kevin Seconds and ex-Phinius Gage bassist Mike Scott share two acoustic punk songs each on this 7" on clear blue Vinyl. A great single that fits right in with the current folk/country punk trend of Chuck Ragan, Tim Barry, Drag The River Etc.

Band name of the issue goes to GUNS N ROSA PARKS whose “Antifreeze” 7” (Give Praise) is excellent old school mid west style stop-and-go hardcore. Like their Midwestern hardcore forefathers this is angry, but supremely intelligent music. The single comes packaged with a fanzine zine to boot.

THE MORNING OF ' “The Way I Fell In” is the eagerly anticipated sophomore album from New York pop-rock quintet. Comprising the duel vocals of Jessica Leplon and Justin Wiley The lyrics are relentlessly positive whilst the music draws from UK influences like Keane and Coldplay.

The ever popular white Metal label Retroactive continues with it’s Reissue campaign. This months offerings are all remastered, repackaged and
packed with bonus material. Artists included this time around are DANIEL BAND, FINAL AXE , ULF CHRISTAIANSEN and TITANIC.

We at Code 7 believe in supporting new UK talent so please join us in getting behind these excellent new releases…

I DEFY amazing debut self-titled mini-album (Mother Should Know) from this Swindon based metal act. These guys know what they are doing!

CALL THE DOCTOR “Ctd” (Glasstone) Bristol based act that are musically strongly influenced by acts such as Neil Young, Pixies, Breeders, PJ Harvey and The Kills. An excellent mini album full of jerky, girly post punk…

ELEVENTH APPARITION “Silhouettes And Sinners” (Glasstone) Excellent metallic hardcore from Wales on a Killswitch Engage/ All That Remains tip.

THE FALLTHROUGH “As The Day Breaks” (Seven) Excellent melodic hardcore from the streets of Brighton in a Propaghandi/Strike Anywhere vein.

We are running out of space now so just a quick mention for the Power-Violence and Grindcore albums on the Bones Brigade label. The latest offerings from
SYLVESTER STALINE, HANGMAN’S CHAIR, JESUS CROST and LAST DAYS OF HUMANITY are all highly recommended to the more adventurous Metal and Hardcore fans amongst you.

Thanks for reading and please join us for next month’s update.

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CODE 7 WEBSITE INTRODUCTION – APRIL 2010

There is only one place to start this month, and that is with yet another killer release from the mighty Profound Lore label. HOODED MENACE were only formed in 2007 and were inspired by the likes of legendary acts such as Winter, early Cathedral, Hellhammer, early Paradise Lost, and Autopsy. Their second album takes those influences and marries them with the band’s loving homage to some of the most cult and classic horror films of all time. The end result is a mightier and more fearsome album than their debut and one that will go down a storm with doom metal fiends and death metal devotees alike. Indeed “Never Cross The Dead” (Profound Lore) is set to go down as a modern day classic of both genres.

'Heliocentric' is THE OCEAN's fifth studio album, the standard CD version is due for an April 2010 release on Metal Blade Records, but the bands own label Pelagic Records is also releasing the vinyl version and a special limited CD box edition with special artwork that also contains an instrumental version of the album as well as an exclusive bonus track. “Heliocentric" is the first half of a double album and continues where the previous "Precambrian” album left off, with dense, epic songs and big orchestrations. The CD box comes with a bonus CD featuring an instrumental version of "Heliocentric" aswell as an exclusive bonus track. The box set contains special artwork and packaging by Martin Kvamme, and inside the box it has a unique CD digipack with revolving PVC dials on top of the front cover.

Be warned the limited CD box edition has only had a worldwide pressing of 1500 copies and the vinyl press is for a staggeringly limited 1000 copies.

With previous album “Precambrian”, THE OCEAN created a classic – from the stunning design by award-winning artist Martin Kvamme, to the double album’s comprehensive concept, to the ambitious music of this behemoth created by 26 participating musicians. Now Pelagic is making this landmark album available as a limited edition vinyl repress of just 500 copies. The package features all three albums on coloured vinyl, packaged in special artwork and box packaging featuring a gatefold sleeve, designed again by the legendary Martin Kvamme.

THE OCEAN’s classic second album “Fluxion” was originally released in 2004 and has been out of print for more than three years, but is now set for re-issue on Robin Staps' newly founded label Pelagic Records. The new version comes
complete with newly recorded vocals, remixed, remastered and with completely new artwork by Martin Kvamme.

NEBRA's “Sky Disk” (Pelagic) album is instrumental and heavy at the same time. Nebra's roots in progressive noise rock soon become obvious in the five tracks of their debut EP. Members of Nebra have been, or are still, active in Swiss math/noise legends Knut (Hydrahead Records), Nostromo and Mumakil (Relapse Records). The band has supported Gojira and a further tour is in the works for later in 2010. Fans of: Mastodon, Gojira, Neurosis, Isis, Torche and Melvins will find much to enjoy within this album for sure…

THE CONFORMISTS are from St Louis, MO. USA. They began in November of 1996 and have released two albums (Two Hundred in 2004 & Three Hundred in 2007) Africantape is now proud to reissue Three Hundred (recorded by Steve Albini ) to introduce this unique, provocative, minimalist avant-garde rock band to Europe and Japan. You might like them. You might not. We do, and if you like Shellac or US Maple then you need to hear this record.

AUCAN’s brand new 5 track 35 minute cd "DNA EP’’ (Africantape) serves to introduce their brand new mix of dark ambient landscapes and broken dubstep riffs. Be sure you are the first on the block to get this in your hands and in your refined ears, if the likes of Battles, Zu, Fourtet and Squarepusher have pushed your buttons in recent years.

MARVIN – “Hangover The Top” (Africantape) is the second album from the critically acclaimed French electro-noise trio who have recently been described as a mix of Air, Daft Punk and Trans Am. An intriguing prospect for sure and one that can be checked out for yourself both on this new album and during their subsequent full UK tour in May.

Now a monthly publication BAD ACID TAB 9 is already here (Bad Acid)
This issue of the outsider’s music bible features a staggering weight of audio and ninety minutes of DVD, plus a magazine. If your predominant taste in music can be labelled either Doom Grind Psych Ambient Space or Sludge (or any combination thereof...) then you NEED this release!

TROUBLED HORSE hail from Örebro, Sweden and look to both 60’s garage rock and 70’s psych-doom for inspiration on their superb “Bring My Horses Home” 7” (Crusher) The band consist of talented singer and front man Martin Heppich, Witchcraft’s John Hoyles and Ola Henriksson along with Jens Henriksson. Martin Heppich possesses an incredible song writing prowess that combines the raw sounds of 60’s garage rock with the heavy riffs of the 70’s psych-doom, bringing to mind the days of bands like Dust and Lincoln Street Exit. Highly recommended.

SEAMOUNT are a traditional Heavy Doom Metal band from Germany, who are influenced by the Fathers Of Doom, Pentagram, Black Sabbath, Saint Vitus and Revelation … with a pinch of N.W.O.B.H.M. elements thrown into the mix on their excellent “Light And Truth” album (Church Within). Like every other release on this up and coming label consider this highly recommended by us

GRIFTER – “The Simplicity Of The Riff Is Key” (Catacomb) Grifter are an ass kickin’, booty shakin’ whiskey rock band from Plymouth. Kicking out the jams with a shared love of Sabbath, Clutch, Scissorfight, AC/DC, Motorhead and ZZ Top… Grifter will be undertaking a UK Tour in April with Sun Gods of Exile from the USA to follow their recent high profile shows with Nebula, Roadsaw and Orange Goblin. A great British stoner act with a great album.

In 2008 Seattle band THE PHARMACY decided to move to New Orleans to write their new album “Weekend” (Seayou) Recorded in their house over the summer of 2009 near Bayou St. John with a 4-track, used microphone and a cheap reverb pedal - the new songs are a raw and liberated departure from previous releases and recall influences like the Shangri-La's and the Zombies, whilst still retaining the energy and spontaneity of a young and hungry band. Look for them on tour in the UK this spring.

The new album "Favourite Flavour" (Seayou) from HOLIDAY FOR STRINGS is not easy to describe as the group is influenced by pretty much every style and era of music there is. The bands line-up includes members of Thieves Like Us and
Peter Bjorn and John. You can hear elements of both acts but the nine songs on Favourite Flavour are very much their own beast and manage to sound dark and atmospheric without ever being close to downbeat. Good stuff.

Latest album from DAVE EVANS “Judgement Day”(Rocksector) is superb bump and grind rock and roll in the grand tradition of a certain rock band from down under who’s guitarist still has a predilection for dressing like a schoolboy.
Dave has more right than most to play this inimitable style of Australian rock as he was the original lead singer of the mighty AC/DC before Bon Scott!!!

Our Reissue Department Is As Busy As Ever…

V/A - “PICADILLY SUNSHINE PART TWO” (Past And Present) is the second volume in a series that sets foot into the deep and wondrous valleys of British Pop music culture, bringing forth once overlooked and sadly neglected songs that were laid to waste in the saturated wonderland of Sixties suburban teenage pop. Twenty criminally overlooked slices of flower power era classics are presented here lovingly restored to their former glory and on cd for the first time.
V/A - “PSYCH BITES” (Past And Present) features twenty sonic blasts of long-forgotten freak rock from Australia recorded between 1967 and 1974. Compiled by Psych expert Psychomania and available for the first time on cd all packaged up in a lovely 12-page full-colour booklet choc full of detailed sleeve notes and rare pictures.

Don’t forget the Punks I hear you cry…As if!

Few , if any, of the original UK Punk acts that frequented legendary venues like the Roxy, Hope & Anchor and Vortex back in 1977 are still releasing records and touring the world, but that cannot be said of MENACE whose new album “No Escape From Nowhere” (Sunny Bastards) proves there is life in the old dogs yet. Fourteen punk rock scorchers recalling the glory days of the bands classic early singles such as “GLC” and “Last Years Youth”.

The "2009 PUNK AND DISORDERLY FESTIVAL" DVD (Sunny Bastards) does exactly what it says on the tin and captures legends like Cock Sparrer, Last Resort, The Boys, Discharge, Vice Squad, Sonic Boom Six and Crashed Out live and dangerous at last years leading Punk festival.

Moving back to modern Punk scenes we find…

THE AMISTAD with their “Kept Under By A Generation Of Ghosts” (Bombed Out) album. A gruff fiery, yet melodic, political punk rock album by this outfit from South Yorkshire, who are highly recommended for fans of Lawrence Arms, Hot Water Music, Leatherface and Jawbreaker. A belting debut album.

Mix Techno, Screamo and Pop, and spice it up with a pinch of Mosh and Breakdown and voilá: you get a novel sound called Techcore. HIS STATUE FALLS are a young band hailing from Saarland in Germany who are its first exponents. Their secret recipe skilfully combining very diverse influences has already landed them a US deal with Equal Vision and will doubtless spawn copycat bands in the near future. Sample if for yourself on debut album “Collisons”(Redfield).

GO RAMPAGE – “From The Inside Out” (Fond Of Life)
Go Rampage performs with virtuosity like Propagandhi but can also be relaxed like the Weakerthans. From Frankfurt, Germany their debut album follows a series of support shows for their heroes Propagandhi in the summer and the band has a whole European tour scheduled to support it.

Back to the Metal!

ARABROT – “The Brotherseed” LP (Fysisk Format) while orthodoxy and predictably has taken its toll on the once exciting Norwegian Black Metal scene, a quite different breed of metal is establishing itself in the north of the country. Amongst them are Arabrot: a band that are able to represent to a younger generation what the Melvins, Throbbing Gristle and Swans were to the generation before them. “The Brotherseed” is produced by Steve Albini and is now available as a one off limited vinyl pressing.

OVERMASTER – “Madness Of War” (Cruz Del Sur) Features skilled and famous musicians from the history of Italian heavy/power metal (White Skull, Skylark, Highlord) - For fans of classic Germanic Heavy Metal, with the addition of soaring Italian power metal melodic lines and choruses.

PALACE OF WORMS – “The Forgotten” (Flenser Records) A one-man black metal act out of San Francisco, has released its monumental album. Balan, the
band’s solo multi-instrumentalist mastermind, hereby demonstrates that his
music is fit to sit alongside San Francisco’s great black metal acts such Leviathan and Ludicra.

PANOPTICON – “Collapse” (Flenser Records) This album appeared on many Best Black Metal Album lists at the end of 2009. Combining elements of crust, doom and post-rock, “Collapse” is a true black metal masterpiece. Now released as a double vinyl LP containing a bonus track featuring anarchist/crust legend Rob Miller of Amebix on vocals. For fans of Isis, Leviathan and Amebix.

As always we at Code 7 are keen to support new up and coming UK Talent:

FATALISTS – “Between The Aisles” (Gamma Proforma).The debut album release from Edinburgh's Fatalists who are amongst the most popular bands in the current Scottish Alt Rock/Punk scene. Featuring eight tracks including their well received debut single 'Staring into the Distance; this is an uncompromising slice of fresh, energetic modern punk.

BREAK EVEN – “Brightside” 12” (Anchors Aweigh). Since forming in the suburbs of Perth in 2005, this band have put out two successful releases and have toured the country countless times with some of the biggest names in hardcore including the likes of Parkway Drive and Have Heart. An excellent hardcore debut album on the true Hardcore Punk format…Vinyl!

TRIAXIS – “Key To the Kingdom” (Triaxis). With this album Triaxis have cemented their place at the head of the UK's resurgent Heavy Metal scene. Long recognised as amongst the home-grown leaders of a resurgent UK traditional Heavy Metal scene, this great album sees the band move up to a level where they simply must be heard by fans of acts like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Metallica, Megadeth, Ozzy, Dream Theater, Dio and Nightwish.

POPE – “Get Into London Town” CD Single (Aspop). Brand new single from Pope – who are ex Chords men Chris Pope and Buddy Ascott – It’s a remix of the most popular track from last Album “Tall Tales & Cheap Thrills.

LONG ROAD GHOSTS – “Return Of The Underdogs” (Ghoulish).The eagerly anticipated debut album from Coventry based “Grit-Pop” foursome Long Road
Ghosts. R.O.T.U combines the indie-pop sensibilities of Oasis with the raw emotion and power of Nirvana…and it works.

V/A – Lockjaw Records Spring Compilation 2010” (Lockjaw). The first Lockjaw compilation in years comes out swinging, combining some of the best hardcore, alternative and indie in the UK today all in one budget priced package. Bands featured are Fights And Fires, Klay, Nucular, Bull See Red & Thisfamiliarsmile.

BASTARD OF THE SKIES – “Ichor Ichor” (Mother Should Know) Hailing from Blackburn, Lancashire, and formed at the beginning of 2006 to play loud, heavy sludge. The band has since played with acts like Kylesa and Today Is The Day. Their second album is influenced by bands like Melvins and High On Fire and has turned them into one of the best doom and sludge act in the UK today.

Please remember all the CD’s mentioned can be brought from both our online store and all good music retailers – Please also head for your local retailer if you are after any of our releases on Vinyl.

Thanks for reading and please join us for next month’s update.
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CODE 7 – WEBSITE INTRO – MARCH 2010

Since forming in 1994 SKINLAB have progressed from their local Bay Area metal scene to scan sales of over 100,000 albums, recording for high profile labels like Century Media along the way. Now with a four year hiatus behind them, Skinlab have remerged with “The Scars Between Us” (Stand And Deliver) which is their strongest album to date. Mixing their early Machine Head style groove-core with the influences of more modern riff merchats such as Unearth and Lamb Of God, this is one hell of a strong comeback album that must be heard by any self respecting Metal Head.

A more recent addition to the thriving Bay Area scene are LUDICRA who were one of the first bands within the San Francisco metal scene to take black metal elements and combine them with punk, traditional metal and even moments of neo-folk. Featuring members of such SF legends as Hammers Of Misfortune, Impaled/Ghoul and Agalloch ; Ludicra’s fourth opus, “The Tenant” (Profound Lore) shows the band at the height of their musical prowess and they have delivered their best release since their classic “Hollow Psalms” debut.

Still flushed with the success of the mighty Deaf Havana last year, well respected British Rock label ‘A Wolf At Your Door’ have found yet another exciting prospect in LOWER THAN ATLANTIS who are just about to unleash their first full length album “Far-Q” on an unsuspecting world. Taking influences from Nirvana, Rival Schools, Foo Fighters, Smashing Pumpkins and Sonic Youth, LTA have a sound you can’t quite put your finger on, but one that is gaining them both a huge live following and the support of magazines like Kerrang and Rock Sound. With tour supports in the coming weeks to All Forgotten, I am Ghost and Four Letter Lie, this is one band to take notice of!

Speaking of UK acts on their way up brings us to much touted hardcore mob
YOUR DEMISE who have been making Gallows style waves with their recent “Ignorance Never Dies” album. To celebrate it’s success their debut album “You Only Make Us Stronger” (Mind Rugby) is being made available at mid price this month. This debut showcases the raw, heart felt, hate filled passion of the band and tracks from it still form a large part of Your Demises’ thrilling live sets.

Moving over the Irish Sea and mellowing out somewhat, brings us to the recently reformed Irish outfit POWER OF DREAMS and the 20th Anniversary edition of their classic “Immigrants, Emigrants And Me” album (100% Music). Now re-mastered with bonus tracks collecting every recording associated with the album (including the hard to find debut ep 'A Little Piece Of God') it is all packaged up in a revised and expanded booklet, making it a quite simply essential reissue.

“In Pursuit Of Courage & Heart” (Lab Records) is the sophomore EP from Stamford singer/songwriter Rob Lynch, aka LOST ON CAMPUS. Over five tracks, Lynch combines his familiar brand of acoustic-pop with hints of folk and electronic music. With a sound somewhat akin to Get Cape Wear Cape Fly this excellent record looks to build upon the positive support which Rob's first record received from the nation’s taste makers at both BBC Radio Six and Big Cheese magazine.

The beer and wine stocks in Sweden must be tapping into some vintage 1973 reserves at the moment judging form the next three releases…

On stunning second album "11" (Fuzzorma) the Psychedelic Rock styling’s of ASTEROID start off by reminding you of Hawkwind and Cream, but the band then throw a left hook by including some subtle Iron Butterfly influences and even some Necktar style Kraut Rock. Decidedly retro but decidedly good!

Fellow Swedish rockers DEXTER JONES CIRCUS ORCHESTRA meanwhile, celebrate their tenth anniversary with third full length ”If Light Can’t Save Us, I Know Darkness Will” (Fuzzorama) which mixes Blues, Hardrock, Southern Rock and Westcoast Sounds in an elegant way that recalls the guitar duels of vintage Allman Brothers and classic early Blue Oyster Cult.

STAKE OFF THE WITCH have a sound undeniably grounded in the patriarchs of Stoner Rock gods like Kyuss, Unida and Monster Magnet, but stand out from that genres derivative pack with some striking female vocals on their latest album “Medusa” (Fuzzorma). Well worth further investigation for fans of the Stoner and Doom genres in our humble opinion.

And as the year picks up pace, so does our reissue department…

First up is STEPPING THROUGH AN EMPTY TIME (Psychic Circle) which comprises twenty slices of British & European pop psych. From an Irish folk band gone decidedly trippy, to an Italian-only release from a Bournemouth based soul band, this is one trip of a compilation that any self respecting Psych collector should definitely pick up.

Collecting sixteen of the rawest and wildest psychedelic punk nuggets of the 1960s, the legendary PSYCHEDELIC DISASTER WHIRL compilation was originally issued in a tiny run of just 400 vinyl copies in 1986, and now makes its long awaited CD debut on the Past And Present label. Boasting some of the most legendary 45s in the genre, it comes complete with an illustrated booklet offering background information about the bands involved, and is a genuinely essential item for garage aficionados.

SECOND HAND’s second album from 1971 “Death May be Your Santa” (Sunbeam) is a milestone in the progressive genre. Originally recorded as the soundtrack to an obscure underground movie, this is its definitive edition, remastered from original tapes and complete with a packed and informative booklet. The band’s ultra rare third recording, made under the name of CHILLUM (Sunbeam) is also finally reissued in its definitive form this month. Again it has been remastered to the highest quality and features bonus tracks with a quality booklet.

Originally released in November 1973 and making its long-overdue CD debut is SUSAN PILLSBURY's self titled debut (Sunbeam). Backed by musicians who contributed decisively to the atmosphere of Van Morrison’s seminal ‘Astral Weeks’ and packaged with five previously unissued bonus tracks, detailed liner notes and rare photographs, the album is nothing short of a lost singer-songwriter classic.

SHIFTING SANDS : 20 TREASURES FROM THE HAYDAY OF UNDERGROUND FOLK (Sunbeam) features twenty of the best tracks to have emerged from the Sixties underground folk revolution, taking in artists from Britain, America, Norway, Eire and Canada, many of which touch on genres including country and psychedelia. This set comes complete with a fully annotated booklet too.

LINK PRORTRUDI AND THE JAYMEN’s“Best Of” which perfectly captures the Fuzztones’ leader and band in a blasting tribute to Link Wray and the Raymen. Blasted out live in a four track studio, it sounds perfect, totally faithful to the sound and style they were trying to recreate. A delicious alternative to pseudo-surf bands and if you have ever grooved to Link Wray (or indeed Dick Dale, The Sonics, Bo Diddley...) then you need to hear this overlooked classic.

Fans of all things Garagey and Psychedelic from yesteryear can gen up on their favourites by purchasing a copy of SHINDIG ISSUE #15 which hits the shelves
very soon and features The Hollies, Ramones, The Bosstown Sound, Granny's Intentions, Popol Vuh and Stephen Stills; what more could you want?

CENTURIONS GHOST – “Blessed And Cursed In Equal Measure” (Church Within) is the third Album for this powerful, energetic groove doom band from London. The release is strongly reminiscent of mid period Cathedral and the band are out on a European tour with genre godfathers Saint Vitus this February, so expect to hear much more from them…

Described as both ‘70`s occult rock’ and ‘more Sabbath than Sabbath’, San Francisco act ORCHID have released one of the catchiest doom releases in the last 10 years with their debut “Through The Devils Doorway” (Church Within). This is an easily accessible classic rock meets stoner doom masterpiece that perfects this particular style. Quite superb and a must for Sabbath fans!

“Alluvial" (Church Within) is the second Album of Dutch Sludge Doom act TEKHTON and is a combination of quiet dreamy instrumentals, lumbering intricate sludge rock and primordial doom, that reminds us in turns of Melvins, Cathedral and even Mogwai. One of the most inventive Doom albums we have heard in a long time…

Anyone whose taste buds have been salivating at those last few releases should do themselves a big favour and pick up a copy of the BAD ACID 8 Cd/Dvd/Magazine set. Consisting of a 90 minute DVD, 65 band audio compilation cd and a 44 page magazine that features in depth reviews of all the bands featured on the cd, plus interviews with the likes of Black Sabbath and Black Cheer. Highly recommended for those who indulge in the left field music that has at turns been labelled Doom, Grind, Psych, Ambient, Space, Sludge...but is surely best defined as just being good!

Raging full on like an all night party sound tracked by Dillinger Four and Off With Their Heads are OVER STARS AND GUTTERS whose debut album “Consider This Your Curse” (Black Numbers) is a collection of punk rock anthems that shows the band be much more than your standard, mindless fist-pumping modern Punk outfit. Like all the best Punk Rock the album is sincere and passionate, yet ripe with despair and confusion….Check it out.

Influenced by early 80`s Californian legends like Dickies, Angry Samoans and Dils are Swedish act TV EYE who were formed by ex members of the legendary Swedish punk/hardcore band Raped Teenagers. Sticking firmly to the music they all loved growing up, their resultant "Nice People" debut album (Just 4 Fun) is Punk Rock how it should sound…short, fast and snotty…

With similar ideals but from a younger generation are Spain’s excellent THE BITE. Fresh from tours with kindred spirits the Buzzcocks and Cute Lepers, this excellent band add a strong English Mod Revival / Power Pop influence to the Punk stew and their debut album “In My Town” (Daily Records) is an excellent release choc full of sing along anthems.

Hailing from the same Texan Punk scene that spawned legendary acts like Big Boys, Dicks and Butthole Surfers were the mighty OFFENDERS who played an excellent style of Clash/77 style punk, but then rather uniquely for a band of the era opted to move to San Francisco and adopt the more in vogue Californian hardcore sound of the time. The best of both eras is collected on the superb “Anthology 1981-1985” CD (Just 4 Fun) which should go someway to cementing the bands reputation alongside some of their more infamous peers from both scenes.

Older punks will be delighted to see the return of THE CRACK’s – “In Search Of The Crack” album (Daily Records) as an extremely limited vinyl repress. One of the classic UK street punk albums that is often talked about in the same revered tones as the debut albums from Cock Sparrer and The Business, this is one not to ne missed by punk vinyl stockists. Be quick to order one!

One of our favourite labels Karate Body has another excellent limited split 7" out this month from WUSSY / THE FERVOUR. Recalling a roll call of adventurous boy/girl-styled indie bands (think Yo La Tengo, Handsome Family, X) Wussy provide a shambling and rough-hewn sound, whilst on the other side The Fervour provide perfect, lazy backbeats overlaid with keyboards, laconic vocals and washes of alternately chiming and fuzzed-out guitar. No frills, no gimmicks, just some great Americana...

The once so exciting Norwegian Black Metal scene is burnt out by orthodoxy, and a quite different breed of metal is now establishing itself in the northern outposts of the country. Boiling with sludgy and industrial metal venom are ARABROT a band that represents for the young generation what Melvins, Throbbing Gristle and Swans were to the generation before them. "The Brotherseed" (Fysysk Format) is Årabrots UK-debut and you know you are not dealing with a bog standard metal release when you see it was produced by the Steve Albini / Bob Weston team.

Never ones to follow the stoner rock by numbers approach, UK outfit GORILLA’s new album ““Rock our souls” (Go Down) contains heavy doom, high energy aggressive and progressive songs, all played in the timeless heavy rock style that the band have made their own. The influences are clear to see…Budgie, Blue Cheer, Grand Funk, MC5, Motorhead, Pink Fairies…but the authentic vintage feel and sound of the album never resorts to either Garage Revival or Stoner Rock cliches.

No 46 on Julian Cope’s list of top Japanese albums is TOSHI ICHIYANAGI, MICHAEL RANTA &TAKEISHA KOSUGI‘s “Improvisation 1975” (Phoenix) album which receives a very limited reissue this month. It’s a mind bending slice of drone improv from three of Japan’s post-war heavyweights; who between them recorded a highly important album that helped pave the way for successors Taj Mahal Time Travellers and much later, Nurse With Wound.

FAR EAST FAMILY BAND Unlike other albums where the Far East Family Band focused on Pink Floyd-esque psych ballads, on “Parallel World” (Phoenix) the influence of producer Klaus Schultze is more pronounced, merging prog rock with electronic music to create something rather weird and wonderful. This is a numbered limited edition cd so be quick to see why Julian Cope rates this as the fourth best Japanese album of all time.

At number 26 on Mr Cope's list is BRAST BURN’s one and only recorded outing which also left left an indelible stamp on those who were to follow especially legendary experimental act Nurse With Wound. Quite simply it's an
album that’s a must for devotees of the likes of Faust and Can. Again this a numbered limited edition reissue on the Phoenix label so you will have to be quick out the blocks to snag one!

Following on from the gutsy blues-rock groove of the band’s first and probably only genuine studio release, SPEED, GLUE & SHINKI’s second release, often referred to as “Tiger” is an album of two halves, the first being some of the strongest SGS-esque material ever, the second being some fine electronic instrumentals in the Tangerine Dream mode. Again a numbered limited edition reissue from Phoenix Records. Oh...and if you were wondering, Julian rates it as No.15 on his list of top Japanese albums...

As always Code 7 is keen to support young UK talent. So please support some of these artists when they need it most – at the very beginning of their careers!

OCTOBER GAME – “Wildblood” (Scylla) – London based indie outfit who have received strong support from Tom Robinson on 6Music and The Guardian.

MAYCOMB – “Crystal Tiger Blues” (All Aboard) – Fresh from a successful UK tour, this Motion City Soundtrack/All Time Low flavoured EP is a real breath of fresh air.

ZEBEDIAH CRANE – Have been strong players on the UK and European Metal underground scene with their previous two releases, and new album “Grawl! The Many Deaths Of The Great Beast” (Apocrypha) looks to solidify their position as one of the UK’s brightest hopes.

“Indigo” (Monochrome) is the debut album from the talented Isle of Man-born singer/songwriter CLARA BARKER , whose beautiful compositions and haunting melodies have her firmly marked as one of the “best kept secrets” in the acoustic field right now.

SHIRUKUME – “Speaking In Colours” (Mother Should Know) is a promising debut album for the midlands based Metal outfit – the new Sikth perhaps?

RASH DECISION – “Temporary Worker” (Pumpkin) Cornwall’s finest Punkers have been hanging around the South West punk scene for a few years now and their Negative Approach/ Discharge influenced take on hardcore is well worth hearing by those from further afield on this their debut album.

FALLING RED – “Shake The Faith” (Rocksector) is the debut album from an outrageous and boisterous four piece band who have made one of the most vital rock and roll records since Appetite For Destruction – like that legendary record it is full on Rock and Roll with a definite nod to both 70’s Punk and the early 80’s Sunset Strip sound. The band are already much beloved of both Classic Rock and Big Cheese magazines and have a full UK tour booked from now until April. So buy the cd and go see them people!

Don’t forget to check out the latest issue of Decoded- The Code 7 Magazine for more information on all of this months releases.

Thanks for reading and please join us for next month’s update.
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CODE 7 – WEBSITE INTRO – FEBRUARY 2010.

Hello Again,

And welcome to the Code 7 February update:

Critics often say that the best bands are the ones with a unique and genre defying style. Well the new album from FRENCH FOR CARTRIDGE – “LICQUORICE” (DINNER WITH DAISY) is here to prove them right!
The London based act produce a dramatic mix of Baroque pop and reggae shuffle which is impossible to pigeonhole and yet recalls everyone from Bjork and Regina Spektor to the Fiery Furnaces and Deerhoof in it’s grooves. Unsurprisingly the likes of Artrocker and The Wire love them and 2010 should see the bands star rise higher still. Highly recommended.

Moving to noisier climes we have four excellent Metal releases to well and truly kick start the New Year:

WOLD – “WORKING TOGETHER FOR OUR PRIVACY” (PROFOUND LORE) One of the most bizarre entities that have surfaced within the
Black metal scene, generally considered to be the most bizarre, unique, and ultimately extreme band that has hailed from Canadian soil. With three albums under their belt, their newest opus is a different kind of Wold release. At only three lengthy tracks, “Working Together For Our Privacy” is Wold’s first instrumental release, looping noise fragments together to create a flurry of blizzard-like sonic madness. An intense excruciating exercise in pure audio hypnosis, and the best Canadian Metal since those classic early VoiVod albums.

Let's cut to the chase, allot of bands being deemed death metal in the U.S. are not real death metal. But fear not VASAELETH are bringing to the forefront the darker, evil, ugly, and more brutal side of death metal that seems to have been lost within the U.S. scene of late. Hailing from Georgia/Texas, Vasaeleth have delivered their ultra guttural, brutal, and doomy debut album “Crypt Born And Tethered To Ruin” (Profound Lore). Conjuring the ancient vibes summoned by such legendary acts as Incantation, Autopsy, and Mortician, the death metal that they deliver is a reminder of the old-school glory days when brutal and raw guttural death metal ruled supreme!

Flying the flag for the UK underground are TAINT and their superb third album “All Bees To The Sea” (Destructure). After cutting their teeth in the early ‘90s d.i.y scene, Taint have retained their hardcore pugnacity while exploring more progressive avenues, thanks to their childhood influences of all things classic rock. The South Wales power-trio has toured every corner of the UK/EU, with both headlining tours and appearances at the Hellfest, SWR, Roadburn and Damnation Festivals. Live outings with like minded souls Clutch, and a personally invited support to Oakland legends Neurosis has put them in ideal company whilst formulating this release and the resulting album is a must for fans of Zeppelin, Clutch, Neurosis, Quicksand, Helmet, Fudge Tunnel and Tool.

LORDS/KARYSUN – “SPLIT” 10” (DESTRUCTURE) Lords are a Louisville, KY band who have recorded 5 songs for this split, 2 short and loud new songs in the same vein as their recent "Fuck All Y'all Motherfuckers" full length, and 3 noisy thrash covers of Nazareth, Young Widows and and Kinghorse. Anyone who experienced the Lords visceral mix of Black Flag, Melvins, Jesus Lizard and
Slayer on their recent UK tour knows they need this record. Karysun meanwhile are a similarly minded stoner/metal/punk duo based in Caen, France who having
developed a cult following after touring extensively in Europe could not be pared up better than on this split. The 500 copies of this limited 10" pressing come on transparent red vinyl with a beautiful sleeve – Be quick to order one!

Having already received strong press support from Front magazine and the NME as well as appearing on Channel 4 teen dram “Skins”, Happening UK electronica act YOU LOVE HER COZ SHE’S DEAD look to be heading for the big time; So we are pleased to announce distribution of two extremely limited coloured vinyl 7” singles “Me Versus You” and “Young Tender Hearts Beat Fast” (Glasstone). The band has already appeared on high profile compilations with acts like The Chemical Brothers and Hot Chip where they fitted in like a glove. And remember you read the name here first!

PG LOST’s – “IN NEVER OUT” (BLACK STAR FOUNDATION) consists of over 50 minutes of instrumental music that show a darker and heavier
side of PG.Lost than previous releases have done. The album was recorded during the summer of 2009 in an old house outside Norrköping, Sweden. The resulting mix of instrumental post rock is easily on a par with the recent work of Explosions In The Sky, Mogwai, and Godspeed You Black Emperor. An excellent release.

JOHN CANDY is the side project of ‘Futures’ duo Ant West and George Lindsay. The two-some decided to take a break from their high energy pop-punk day-job, concentrating on writing and self-producing the eleven laid back, piano led indie songs which feature on “Conversations” (All Aboard). The album seamlessly moves from the Beatles inspired title track, through atmospheric passages, to pure sing-along moments. The band tours the UK and Europe throughout February/March and if you have a taste for Death Cab For Cutie, Futures or even The Beatles, we suggest you get along to a show…

DE PROFUNIDS are poised to become a major force in the extreme metal scene with the release of their highly anticipated second album “A Bleak Reflection” (Kolony). Their powerful mix of black, death, doom and progressive metal has helped the band a strong UK and international fan-base with performances across the UK (including Bloodstock ‘08) and all around the globe. The new album sees De Profundis take a giant step in terms of songwriting, production and musicianship. With excellent media coverage in the UK, this album will become a must-have for all fans of Opeth, Death, and early Anathema.

Few bands in the current Black Metal scene have the guts and, above all, the creativity to push the boundaries of the genre. But this is precisely what A FOREST OF STARS, from England, has done on their debut album “The Corpse of Rebirth” (Burning World) sharing a similar artistic framework with bands such as Ved Buens Ende, Solefald and In The Woods. This Groundbreaking album is now available in a very limited luxurious double vinyl special edition. The packaging for this double LP is unique and quite different from that of regular LPs. All fans of the band and Black Metal collectors will definitely not want to miss out on this unique item.

WHIRLING – “FACELESS PHENOMENON” (Eisenwald) Avant-garde Dark Metal from Sweden, surprising the first time listener with crafty obscure and complex music, rich with songs and instrumentation. An unconventional
and disturbing travel - easily drifting away from the usual metal genres. Try to imagine a mix of Ved Buens Ende and Code then you will be in the right ball park.

Formed by members of bands Austere and Woods Of Desolation promising Australian newcomers GREY WATERS enter the fray with their “Below The Ever Setting Sun” (Eisenwald) where they act as standard bearers for their self styled "Melancholic" Metal genre making a noise that makes them mandatory
listening for fans of Katatonia and Anathema!

GRIS formerly Niflheim, are back with the second chapter of their quest to find the perfect balance between despair and joy, ugliness and beauty. Extremely depressive while at the same time hauntingly beautiful, "Il Etait Une Forêt" (Sepulchral) sees the band expanding its sorrowful Black Metal by adding violins, pianos and classical passages. Already considered a classic in the Black Metal genre, this album has been critically acclaimed worldwide.

FROZEN SHADOWS have regularly been hailed as one of North America’s most overpowering Black Metal bands. Originally released in 1999, their debut album "Dans les Bras des Immortels" (Sepulchral) is still considered today as one of the genre’s very best. To celebrate the 10th anniversary of this now classic
album, Sepulchral has released a new anniversary edition, featuring complete remastering, a revamped layout, as well as a never before released cover of Burzum’s "Black Spell of Destruction" from 2001.

With a history that traces back to 1992, DIVINE EVE have reached a cult like status in the world of underground metal, releasing demos and EPs through the likes of Candlelight and Nuclear Blast Records. New album “Vengeful And Obstinate” (Ibex Moon) contains their first recordings since reforming and is an
absolute must for fans of Celtic Frost and Incantation.

Already cult favourites in their US homeland Americana act DRAG THE RIVER look to solidify a similar status in Europe with their “Primer” collection on the Viva Hate label. The band feature members of well respected Punk outfits All and Armchair Martian and play passionate rough hewn Punk tinged Americana which recalls both the Replacements and Uncle Tupelo in their prime, and this band collated ‘Best Of’ album is the perfect place to start dipping into their vast catalogue.

Don’t forget the Punks I hear you cry! As if…

The ever excellent ‘Deranged’ label has six diverse new releases to kick start their year: REACTIONARIES – “Ingenuity” LP is excellent soulful dynamic fuzzy garage punk. SLAVE SCENE’s–Self titled 7” offers up two new sludgy hardcore tracks in a Flipper / Born Against vein. ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS - “My Father’s House” 7” politically charged Punk/Folk/County hybrid is a real departure for the label. AIRFIX KITS – “Flextime” 7”recalls the glory days of Wire, Gang Of Four and Minutemen with its angular left field Punk sound. UX VILEHEADS – “First EP” sees ex DS 13 members tearing through an EP that tears it up in an early Dischord fashion. And finally VACANT STATE’s “Internal Conflict” 7” features five classic Boston hardcore influenced stompers.

REVENGE OF THE PSYCHOTRONIC MAN – “Make Pigs Smoke” (TNS) is one of the best British punk debuts for aeons, what you get is fourteen tracks of stupidly fast melodically tinged punk that sounds like Zeke, Kid Dynamite and Dead Kennedys going out on an alcohol fuelled bender…excellent stuff!

V/A - “MAINSTREAM MUSIC IS SHIT” (TNS) This 37 track double CD compilation album features some of the most exciting underground bands in the UK at the moment. The bands included all thrive on DIY ethics and make a stirring case for the label having sincerity about it to be placed alongside such bastions of UK Punk as Household Name and Boss Tuneage.

V/A - “THE THREE WAY SPLIT” (TNS) includes ten tracks from three North-West ska-core bands ‘Sense Of Urgency’, Stand Out Riot’ and ‘A War Against Sound’. All three really push the boundaries of the ska-punk genre, incorporating different styles and influences, resulting in fresh and exciting individual sounds to a pretty stagnant scene.

Speaking of which; BEAT THE RED LIGHT’s self titled album (TNS) does the very same thing as High Wycombe’s finest fuse ska with Slayer-esque metal, to provide a hugely original sound. The eight piece band also features members of the mighty Shitty Limits to boot!

WEDNESDAY NIGHT HEROES/FOR THE WORSE – SPLIT 7” (Give Praise)
Is a truly excellent old school punk single, with WNH carrying on in the tradition of their excellent BYO album whilst FTW hold up the battle stained banner of Boston hardcore in a most exemplary manner.

As always our Reissue Department is as busy as ever this month:

MIGHTY BABY – “TASTING THE LIFE – LIVE 1971” (SUNBEAM)
One of the best-loved bands to have emerged from Britain’s late 1960s
underground and this is the fullest live record of them in existence.
The set finds the quintet poised between the driving psychedelia of their 1969 debut and the more contemplative sound of their second and final album. It’s rounded off by two tracks recorded at Glastonbury in June of the same year, and comes complete with a booklet featuring rare images and notes making it an essential artefact of the band.

V/A – “ELECTRIC ASYLUM VOL 4” (PAST AND PRESENT)
Is a rock solid early 70’s British Freakrock collection. Including gems from Croydon's finest fruit-eating bears, Slowload, London's psychedelic punks, Spunky Spider, Godson, Mustard and Sunshine Kid all packaged in the excellent, informative booklet you have come to expect form this label!

BONZO DOG DOOH DAH BAND – “GORILLA” LP (TIMELESS) is a Limited Edition 180g pressing the Bonzo’s 1967 classic album Gorilla. No more, no less.
We haven’t got that many of them either so please place your order ASAP!

AREA’s “LIVE IN TURIN” (AKARMA) is a double CD recorded live in Torino 1977. The performance is wild and showcases the band at the peak of its powers. The recording is presented here for its archive nature- and is a must for Area completists and prog heads.

In the last gasp of San Francisco acid rock, TRIPSICHORD MUSIC BOX – recorded an album of cheery, hippie-vibed music entitled “Tripsichord Music Machine” (Akarma) that was already on the verge of becoming anachronistic upon its 1971 release and thus became an instant collectible. This special edition cd includes the bands rare singles to complete a lovingly packaged reissue.

JOHNNY ALMOND – “Patent Pending” LP (Timeless) Johnny Almond used organ, sax, and flute, to develop his own brand of jazz, blues and funky Stax influenced tracks. This 180 gram vinyl pressing of this classic album comes in the original sleeve and is a strictly limited edition.

MILES DAVIS – “Enigma 7 – The Complete Blue Note Sessions 1952-1953” (Birdland) Showcases the Jazz legend at his early Fifties peak and is a must have collection of recordings for Jazz aficionados.

Back to the modern era now and the often underrated Transubstans label has a quartet of sterling releases out this month: BLOWBACK “Eight Hundred Miles” is one of the best fusions of 70's groove and hard rock we have heard for ages and boasts a sound most 70's bands would kill for, making it a must for fans of acts like Witchcraft or Electric Wizard. FIRST BAND FROM OUTER SPACE – “The Guitar Is Mightier Than The Gun” is the third album from the Swedish space-rockers who confidently groove in the style of Hawkwind or Ozric Tentacles. THE CARPET KNIGHTS – “According To Life” is the Swedish prog-masters second album of melancholic prog with eclectic influences that go all the way from Gentle Giant to The Mars Volta. Having been described by one critic as ‘a mix of Queen and Jethro Tull’ it is hardly surprising to see LUCIFER WAS go completely overboard on their fifth album “Crown Of Creation” which can only be described as a Rock Opera in the vein of “Jesus Christ Superstar”..

Some killer Doom/Stoner reissues are up next;

Leading the pack is unearthed NWOBHM gem, the self titled album from WOLFBANE (Shadow Kingdom). Think early Judas Priest and Black Sabbath mixed with Pagan Altar styled vocals with a sprinkle of Alice Cooper thrown in for good measure. A real lost classic of the era!

REVELATION – “Yet So Far” and “For The Sake Of No One” are two textbook examples of classic 90’s Doom Metal and are both reissued from obscurity this month. As is IRON MAN’s “Black Knight” (all Shadow Kingdom) which is choc full of classic 90’s Doom Metal from the Maryland/Virginia scene and bears serious comparisons with classic Black Sabbath and Pentagram.

We at Code 7 believe in getting behind new UK talent so how about joining us
by supporting these fine releases?

Since forming in 2006, Southend-On-Sea six piece KENAI have built up a strong following and defined a unique and powerful sound. As a showcase for their sound “Hail The Escapist” (Redfield Records) is a compelling introduction to the band’s sound : taut rhythms, overlaid with driving guitars and synth topped with the uniquely powerful vocals of Dan Lawrence. A great debut further strengthened by the band’s fearsome live reputation gained playing with the likes of A Day To Remember, Fightstar, Ghost Of A Thousand and Deaf Havana.

PUNCH AND THE APOSTLES – “S/T” (REPELLENT) are a different beast again, with the Scottish band’s self styled ‘Frenzy Folk’ and stunning live shows garnering them comparisons to the likes of Tom Waits and Gogol Bordello. They ripped apart the Introducing stage at the Reading and Leeds festivals last year and have been raved about in both the Daily Record and Scotsman who offered them the accolade of “frenzy inducing”. Highly recommended.

SPAGHETTI ANYWHERE – “S/T” (TOY SOLDIER) After a year spent playing in several well-known London venues the ‘quirky pop’ duo will be releasing its first collection of songs on this their debut EP this month which will be supported by a nationwide tour this month.

Cambridgeshire indie band ISAACS AIRCRAFT toured Europe in the Autumn of 2009, both headlining and also supporting The Zutons and Fearless Vampire Killers. Already legends in their local Cambridgeshire area the band are now looking to break out more nationally with their great "Head To the Feet" single (Crash Records). This is a short run collector’s item single, produced in environmentally friendly packaging, so get those orders in quickly people...

None of the members of Midlands’s Metal act AMORTH are out of their teens yet but their debut album “Await Me Now” (Mother Should Know) is a stunningly accomplished Metal debut which deserves to be heard outside of their strong local West Country following.

We are running out of space now but the Metal Department would like to big up the newly acquired catalogue of Barbarian Records featuring sterling releases from the likes of ANTIPRISM, BONGZILLA, WORMSBLOOD and MERLOT.

Whilst ‘White Metal’ label Retroactive also have a whole host of reissues out this month ranging from the eighties hair metal of GUARDIAN to the Metallica/Tool stylings of BRIDE and five reissues from trad Christian rockers SWEET COMFORT BAND. If any of this sounds interesting but you need further persuasion then why not first check out the label’s excellent “A SALUTE TO WORLD CLASS ROCK” budget priced sampler ?.

Please remember all the CD’s mentioned can be brought from both our online store and all good music retailers – Please also head for your local retailer if you are after any of our releases on Vinyl.

Thanks for reading and please join us for next month’s update.
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CODE 7 WEBSITE INTRO – JANUARY 2010

Hello and welcome to the first Code 7 website of the new decade,

First up is the fine ICONS OF ELEGANCE album “Dancing Is Easy” (Dinner With Daisy). Having released three albums to critical acclaim in their homeland of Sweden, the pair of half Finish / Swedish brothers who comprise the band have taken time off their day jobs producing, playing and writing for
some of the biggest-selling Finnish artists in order to finish their UK debut album. The resultant “Dancing is Easy” is a fine little collection of classic-pop songwriting, where strong melodies are combined with weird and wonderful arrangements. Beautiful songs wrapped in a sound full of dulcitones, waterphones, music boxes and wistful pedal steel - with plenty of brotherly vocal harmonies. Highly recommended to all fans of Scandinavian pop and indie (Kings Of Convenience, Cardigans, Wannadies et al)

Featuring two members of notorious death metal band Portal, Australia’s IMPETUOUS RITUAL are destined to carve their name into the echelons of true underground death metal in 2010 with their brutally atmospheric and blasphemous debut album “Relentless Execution Of Ceremonial Excrescence” (Profound Lore). These new gods of Australian death metal are a must for fans of Portal, Incantation, Immolation, Bestial Warlust and Conqueror.

“After Soap & Skin” (See You) is the excellent debut album from PAPER BIRD one of the most recognisable new, and individual acts to hail from Austria in years. Beautiful female fronted indie pop with a sense of style, poetry and (most importantly) great songs. Well worth checking out.

Our personal favourite US punk album of last year “American Rubicon” (Gunner) by the mighty COBRA SKULLS gets a limited Coloured Vinyl release this month, and if you haven’t already got this album let us just reiterate that is a “must buy”. The Skulls sound is very difficult to pinpoint but imagine if you will some of the more intelligent US punk bands of recent years, like Against Me and Lawrence Arms mixed in the political fury and sarcasm of Propaghandi and Dillinger Four and then topped it off with some vintage 7 Seconds or Youth Brigade shout along choruses then you would find yourself in the right ball park…A fine fine record whichever format you purchase!

Also getting a limited Coloured vinyl release is the equally excellent self titled album by LANDMINES (Gunner). To recap this outfit hail from Richmond Virginia and share a similar sonic space as fellow hometown heroes Avail and Strike Anywhere, whilst mixing in influences from further afield such as Hot Water Music, Verbal Assault, Bouncing Souls and Jawbreaker. Intelligent passionate modern Punk at its very best and another real recommendation.

The debut E.P from SHIP TO SHORE “Let’s Not Get Caught” (Broken Night) is packed full of infectious lyrics and uncontainable energy that will leave you wanting more. Ship To Shore have been out on the road supporting bands such as Set Your Goals, Crime in Stereo and Kids In Glass Houses in recent months, and this has undoubtedly helped them hone their Pop Punk, Metal and Hardcore influences into the distinctive melodies and powerful hooks found on their debut. Definitely a UK band to watch in the near future…

As usual our reissue department has been busy and just could not wait to unleash the legendary “PSYCHEDELIC SALVAGE COMPANY VOLUMES 1&2” (Past And Present) compilation on the world. This deluxe double cd set features some of the rarest psychedelic artefacts of all time and comes complete with a full booklet offering background information on the obscure acts featured, making it a genuine must-have for all fans of way-out psychedelia.

MANDY MORE’s sole album “But That Is Me” (Sunbeam) was released without fanfare in the UK in June 1972. Gorgeously melodic and sung with power and emotion, it has developed a devoted following and makes its long-awaited CD debut this month. Mandy’s story is told for the first time in the accompanying booklet, which also contains previously unseen photographs. The set is completed by five non-LP single sides and an entire second disc of alternative takes and demos from the time of the album, making it truly essential for all fans of classic Seventies singer-songwriting.

“HIGH ALL THE TIME VOLUME TWO” (Past And Present) is a classic compilation that gathers together fourteen of the best American 1960s psychedelic obscurities you’ve never heard. Now it’s finally available on cd for the first time the set will thrill anyone whose tastes run to fuzz, echo, feedback, distortion and any other effect you care to mention. As always the booklet features invaluable background info and rare picture for Psych/Garage collectors.

Virtuoso musicianship?, Complex keyboards?, Wild guitar?, Shifting time signatures?, Bizarre lyrics?, All are present on a scorching new collection of British prog rarities entitled “MAXIMUM PROG” (Past And Present). Packed with tracks culled from sixteen of the most collectible albums in Prog history, all originally released between 1969 and 1973. The set comes complete with a detailed booklet offering seldom-seen pictures as well as histories and discographies of the long forgotten acts involved like Don Shinn, Aardvark and Rock Workshop.

The recent well received cd reissue of the FAR EAST FAMILY BAND album “Nipponjin” (Phoenix) has now been followed by a highly collectible numbered limited edition LP release. The Pink Floyd like space rock of the band made No.14 on Julian Cope’s list of top Japanese albums and this is sure to fly out quickly on wax…

Joint first in Julian Cope’s aforementioned Top 50 Japanese album chart was SPEED,GLUE AND SHINKI’s “Eve” album and the Phoenix label is proud to bring us a very limited 180g vinyl reissue this month. Speed, Glue and Shinki were important as pioneers of the Japanese psychedelic rock scene and their material is notoriously hard to track down so get those orders in quickly!

Remaining on a limited vinyl tip to but returning to modern times we have a limited white Vinyl 7” release from St. Louis, Mo., riverboat soul provider POKEY LA FARGE and perennial Louisville ghost storyteller JOE MANNING, who team up for the first in a nine-single split 45 series from the Karate Body label. Both these men breathe a bellyful of traditional accompaniment, rust-belt sensibility and commonly held blue-collar emotion into modern Americana and this evocative single is highly recommended by us.

Moving back to heavier climes we find the reissue of DARK AGES “Twilight Of Europe” (Inferna Profundus) which since it’s original release in 2004 has become something of a sought after item in Underground Metal circles since it’s deletion. Well the dark hordes can now rejoice at this here digi pack reissue which contains an exclusive bonus track for good measure!

French metallers AGUIIRE play painful, dragging sludge/doom metal on their jaw dropping full length debut album “Calvaire“(Bones Brigade). A massive wall of distorted sound conveying depressing riffs and haunted vocals is what you get here and this is a debut that will captivate and satisfy even the most demanding doom metal head.

UNDER THAT SPELL is the new act of Dionysos (ex-Helrunar) and they mix traditional early 90’s black metal with more modern Metal influences to make one of the strongest German black metal releases of 2010 with their “Apotheosis” (War Anthem) album. Definitely one not to be missed by fans of Ulver, Dissection and early Satyricon…

Driving rhythms, catchy keyboard soundscapes and a perfectly arranged voice mixed up with some great new ideas have gone to create one of the most incredible Electro-albums of 2010 in C-DRONE DEFECT’s “Dystopia” (Black Rain Media). A limited edition of 1000 copies comes with an exclusive bonus cd making this a must for all fans of EBM!

DIE PERLEN are two guys from Nuremberg, who have always entertained their audiences with great releases and live-performances so their tenth anniversary seems a great time for the “Zehn” (Black Rain Media) compilation cd containing tracks from their first decade including rare and old demo-tracks as well as brand new, previously unreleased songs – All selections were voted for by Die Perlen fans, making this a real piece of music history from the only band of the Telektroponk-genre!

Both FLINT GLASS’s debut "Hierakonpolis" and the completely sold out follow-up "Nyarlathotep" were said to be some of the best and most innovative Industrial / Dark Ambient albums ever and they are now doubled up onto one cd this month by Black Rain Media. The release is limited to 500 copies too so hurry!!!

And finally the wait is over - the new NEOTEK album “Sex, Murder & Rock’n’Roll” (Black Rain Media) is here - Containing Neotek’s trademark mix of dance-floor friendly club anthems, old-school EBM and electro-industrial tracks it’s a total blast. The first pressing of “Sex, Murder & Rock’n’Roll” contains an extra DVD with several videos documenting the band and their live energy, plus 5 extra tracks.

Please remember all the CD’s mentioned can be brought from both our online store and all good music retailers – Please also head for your local retailer if you are after any of our releases on Vinyl.

Enough now..time to go and listen ..I ‘ll be back next month, see you then.
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CODE 7 WEBSITE INTRO – DECEMBER 2009

Welcome to our final set of releases of the year, don’t forget to check out the Decoded site for more info on all our months releases, and so without further delay read on and fill your Christmas stocking....

In a year that has seen vinyl making a substantial comeback it is only fitting to start with three astounding limited edition pieces of beautiful plastic:

First up are TAINT and their new “All Bees To The Sea” opus (Destructure) which is available as a limited coloured vinyl album. Moving on from their first two albums on Rise Above, the band have retained their hardcore pugnacity while exploring more progressive avenues, thanks to the incorporation of a large classic rock influence. ‘All Bees To The Sea’ features four new barnstorming Taint classics. Culminating with the 12-minute title track, this release stands alone in it’s own right and is a must for anyone into Led Zeppelin, Clutch, Neurosis, Quicksand, Helmet, Fudge Tunnel and Tool.

If you have been a good black metaller this year then Santa/Satan may well be dropping you off a copy of the eight LP ENSLAVED Box set (Viva Hate) which features the bands first eight long out of print albums from Enslaved’s first 10 years. Only 350 of these are now available after a limited pressing of a mere 700 copies. Aswell as the albums you get a belt buckle, army cap, and tape all housed in a massive wooden box. For the record the albums in the box are “Frost”, “Eld”,”Blodhemn”, “Mardraurm”,”Monumension”,”Below The Lights”,”Hal Valr” and the original reissue of the demo tape “Yggdrasill”.

ISIS are one the most important post rock bands out there and we have the vinyl version of their new “Live V” LP (Viva Hate) - Only this vinyl version will ever be available for retail due to the CD only being sold through the band. Only a one time pressing of 500 180g vinyl double LP’s is available for wholesale. Don’t let them get away!

ARMS AND SLEEPERS have crept up on us with a late contender for album of the year with their magnificent “Matador” (Expect Candy). Like a lot of great acts it is hard to pigeonhole this acclaimed US duo, but the album’s’ creepy brooding atmospherics have garnered them comparisons with Boards Of Canada and Portishead. The album features guest appearances Tom Brosseau (Fat Cat), Ben Shepard and Uzi And Ari. A big Code 7 office favourite which we highly recommend…

PERSON L are a new band from Kenny Vasoli (formerly of The Starting Line - who sold over 500,000 records worldwide at the height of the nineties US pop punk explosion) but their debut album “The Positives” (Scylla) is a world away from that era, allowing the musicians’ interests and obsessions with artists like Bob Dylan, James Brown, Curtis Mayfield and Sam Cooke to shine through their song writing and playing. Vasoli’s voice, as he sings and yelps and howls, is barely recognizable from the croon of his former band. The twelve songs on the album explore simple ideas with complex, layered instrumentation and Vasoli’s thoughtful, genuine lyrics – all reflecting the band’s classic influences. Very nice indeed.

Our Reissue Department is winding down for the year but has still found time to unleash the PERFUMED GARDEN 5CD Box Set (Past And Present) onto the world. The original three volumes were applauded for the quality of both the content and the sound, but were somewhat undermined by the lack of information about the tracks and the artists who performed them. SO This repackaged version of the first 3 volumes, plus two additional volumes compiled by a leading expert on British psychedelia, now contains a scholarly and informative 52 page booklet complete with rare photographs an exhaustive liner notes. This is full-on UK garage rock and psychedelia and every track’s a winner. Great sound is coupled with 82 fantastic tracks over 5 CDs, 3 featuring the original artwork and the additional discs boasting new artwork newly-commissioned for this superb box set.

From the same era the PSYCHEDELIC SUPER PIOTR compilation cd (Past And Present) will have you querying whether the old Iron Curtain was in place to keep out Western forces, or keep “groovy”music like this in? This is a rollicking tour through the old Eastern Bloc; groups hailing from Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria and the former Czechoslovakia hell bent on proving that, despite their incarceration, they had perfected the decidedly British and American sound that makes up this rare and unique mix of psych/rock. Unavailable for years on LP and never on CD, and now complete with detailed notes on each band in the accompanying booklet.

THE PEOPLE “Ceremony – "Buddha Meets Rock” (Phoenix) is an absolute classic. This 1971 recording was an attempt to fuse Buddhist-influenced spiritual vibe into an innovative oriental form of hypnotic psychedelic prog rock. A monumental album that’s never going to go out of style, as proven by it's recent appearance at No.16 on Julian Cope’s list of top Japanese albums.

FAR OUT – “Nihonjin” (Phoenix) Prior to metamorphosing into Far East Family Band, Far Out released this sole, spacey, guitar-drenched psychedelic prog album in 1971. Although Floyd influences are highly apparent, the band produced an original sound with its own unique identity rather than being a copy British and American bands that were dominating the genre. This Numbered limited edition – 1000 copies only – appears at No.11 on Julian Cope’s afore mentioned list of top Japanese albums.

Don’t forget the Punks at Christmas I hear you cry! As if we would…

Featuring ex members of Buried Inside and Million Dollar Marxists amongst others the SEDATIVES do it dark, desperate, and minimal on their self titled debut album (Deranged). An archaic sound echoing a time when punk was catchy, but also dangerous. Going back to the three chord song, with downstrokes, vicious energy, and all of them clocking in under the two minute song deadline. Cracking stuff...

IMPULSE INTERNATIONAL are a trio from New Jersey by way of Florida that deliver an album's worth of excellent guitar driven powerpop gems on their debut album “Point Of Action” (Deranged). They mix the guitar hooks of the Real Kids with the upbeat tempo of UK power pop legends the Buzzcocks. Nothing complicated, just really catchy punk!

LORDS "Fuck All Y'all Motherfuckers" LP (Destructive) was released earlier this year by Black Market Activities (Metal Blade Sub-Label run by Guy
Kozowyk, the singer of The Red Chord) and is the follow-up to their crushing "Swords" album on Jade Tree Records. With 16 songs in a mere 23 minutes, you know what to expect from this limited vinyl pressing of the album; a sonic cocktail of thrash, hardcore punk and metal that will blow your ears down ! Comes on virgin white vinyl with a beautiful sleeve all packaged within crazy artwork designed by Stan Doll. A must for fans of Black Flag, Melvins, Jesus Lizard and Slayer.

ARTCORE fanzine issue 26 (Artcore) For the uninitiated AC was established in January 1986, and is one of the last remaining 80’s punk fanzines. Along with the magazine you will find The House Of Commons ‘Guilty As Hell’ CD which is a fourteen song full length enhanced CD comprising this 80’s Vancouver punk band’s best output complete with bonus videos. An Excellent listen it is too...Reminiscent of US/Canadian contemporaries like Toxic Reasons, Subhumans and DOA. Crammed into the 36 page magazine you will find a mixture of interviews with the likes of Shot Baker, Shitty Limits and Cut Ups aswell as fine retrospective features on legendary Punk acts of yesteryear such as Angry Samoans, The Cramps and N.O.T.A. As well as all of the usual ranting, raving and reviewing...An excellent read as always.

Back to the Metal and the mighty CIRCLE’s new album “Hollywood” (Viva Hate) – What is there to say about this band from Finland, existing for decades now, releasing 20 albums. Their avant-garde music may have scared off some otherwise interested major labels but now they have decided to record an eighties hard n’ heavy album with legendary Bruce Duff (Jesters Of Destiny) on the vocals which greatly compliment the Hard Rock, Kraut and Psychedelic sounds. It’s such a great album that the mighty ISIS decided to take Circle with them on the road during this year’s European tour. THE perfect Hard N’ Heavy album to see out 2009 with!

Twenty five years ago HIRAX were one of the first bands to be dubbed a ‘crossover’ act for their melding of Thrash Metal and Hardcore Punk, and now they are back with their first album in five long years, "El Rostro de la Muerte" (Selfmadegod). Stinging new tracks and bonus re-recordings solidify this album as THE thrasher of 2009. This monstrous slab of metal is a relentless thrash attack that will rip your face off and needs to be heard by fans of Slayer, Testament, Exodus, D.R.I., Venom, Motorhead, Kreator, RDP, Accused etc.

REACTOR were an ancient Heavy Rock / Doom Metal band from the famous Maryland/Virginia Doom Metal scene that featured members of Pentagram. “The Real World” (Shadow Kingdom) collects their one and only six song Ep with some live tracks to complete a collection of quality stoner/doom Metal that is essential for anyone looking to complete their Maryland/Virginia Doom collection.

DEIPHAGO “Filipino Antichrist” (Hell’s Headbangers) meanwhile is a storming Black Metal album which has been receiving strong press support from magazines such as Zero Tolerance and Terrorizer. In an over saturated scene this one really stands out!

Rockabilly label Western Star is a welcome addition to the C7 roster this month and to celebrate we have the excellent new album “Trash Culture” from the BAD DETECTIVES. This five piece Pub-Rock/R&B Garage band have built up quite a following with their quirky self penned songs. They have appeared on many Psychobilly compilations as a lot of their songs have a Rockabilly feel.
The band are very active on the live circuit and has shared the stage with like minded acts such as the Pirates and Wilko Johnson.

Also on the label are JACK RABBIT SLIM with their third album “From The Waist Down”. JRS are the UK’s most popular Rockabilly band by far and gig relentlessly throughout the UK and Europe with the occasional short US tour. Somewhat incongruously they number the ‘Modfather’ Paul Weller among their fans. GRAHAM FENTON is a name many may remember fronting Eighties Rockabilly hit makers Matchbox. “Raging Heart” is his first full length solo album and is highly recommended to fans of good honest Rockabilly.

VIVE LA FETE is a project featuring Danny Mommens, bassist for the cult band dEUS, and the blonde supermodel Els Pynoo. The resulting fusion of electro with a dab of punk rock oozes charm and glamour ( think Blondie, think Brigitte Bardot, think Jane Birkin…) and we are pleased to give both their albums “Disque D’or” and “10 Ans De Fete” (Le son du marquis) some much deserved UK distribution for the first time.

We are always keen to support new UK talent so what better way to round up the year than by giving props to the following:

STEPH FRASER – “Recession Proof” (Sonic Vista) an excellent third single from this talented female songwriter with a very topical subject matter. THE ENCIERRO – “Be Yourself” (Platform/Whimsical) is a very promising debut EP from a Stirling based five piece whose mature indie rock echoes everyone from REM to early Manic Street Preachers. TELL IT TO THE MARINES -meanwhile create a sophisticated brand of atmospheric post-pop-punk, drawing influences from bands such as Brand New and The Editors on debut 5 track ep “Bridges” (All Aboard). ALL OR NOTHING / CHAOS DAYS Split CD (All Aboard) is intended to represent UK pop-punk at its best, bringing together Chaos Days’ Paramore-esque melodic hooks and All Or Nothing’s dual-vocalled skate-punk anthems.

Remember all these releases are available from all decent (and some quite indecent) online stores and Independent Record stores…See y’all next month and have a superb Christmas and New Year.

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Hello and welcome to the Code 7 website for a look at November’s new releases:

Hopefully you have all had the chance to check out the new addition to the Code 7 Family - Decoded. Click on the link above and browse our releases in more detail, search by genre, label or band. Every month a new issue will be released so you will be always up to speed with what Code 7 is releasing. The November issue has just been published so don’t let that important release pass you by....

One of the success stories of the year has been SONIC BOOM SIX and their latest album “City Of Thieves”, which has seen the band move from beneath the underground Punk scene’s umbrella and gain some long overdue mainstream recognition. To celebrate they are a rounding off their great year with a deluxe reissue of their critically acclaimed debut album “Ruff Guide To Genre Terrorism” (Rebel Alliance). This long out of print album is being made available once more with four bonus audio tracks and the never before released documentary film “A Boom Under Northern Skies“. It’s all packaged up in a full colour embossed digipack with amazing new artwork by original artist Steve Kitchen to boot.

Swimming in similar musical waters you will find East London Ragamuffin’s THE SKINTS and their scorching debut album “Live, Breathe Build Believe” (Rebel Alliance). Think Steel Pulse meets The Clash meets King Blues imbibed with the spirit of Sonic Boom Six and you are halfway there. The band have just completed a UK tour with SB6 and have been receiving strong support from Radio One’s Mike Davies…We think they are more than deserving of your support too !

Must have Metal release this month is the awesome second album by the critically acclaimed KRALLICE “Dimensional Bleedthrough” (Profound Lore). The band feature guitar wizard Mick Barr (Ocrilim/ Orthrelm) and Colin Marston (Behold… The Arctopus/ Dysrhtmia), who are both well known as two of the most prolific musicians in extreme progressive music. The band’s debut had rave reviews and Krallice were named by Spin magazine as one of the top five metal bands to watch. Progressive, Challenging Black Metal that is a must for fans of Wolves In The Throne Room, Nachtmystium, and Voivod.

Also on the mighty Profound Lore are WORM OUROBOROS and their self-titled debut album. Featuring members of legendary Bay Area acts The Gault, Amber Asylum and World Eater. Worm Ouroboros share familiar sonic ground to those bands, especially The Gault, since Worm Ouroboros bassist/singer Lorraine shared songwriting duties with John Gossard (Asunder/Weakling) in that band . Intriguingly Worm Ouroboros conjure up a sound scape reminiscent of classic 4AD acts such as This Mortal Coil and The Cocteau Twins, but without losing the doomy Metal edginess of other influences such as Asunder.

Roadburn are an exciting new label addition to the Code 7 fold this month so let’s take a stroll through their excellent catalogue…

WOLVES IN THE THRONE ROOM - “Live At Roadburn 2008” is a ferocious live audio and visual recording of the band’s trademark ambient sounds and aggressive Black metal captured at their peak in audio and video (the DVD is included with both the vinyl and cd versions of the album)…Recorded a year later at the same festival Japanese stonersludge outfit CHURCH OF MISERY also release their “Live At Roadburn 2009” on Roadburn…Stepping down a gear but keeping it monstrously heavy are STONE AXE and their self titled debut album. Featuring members of Mos Generator, Stone Axe is focused on recreating the classic rock sound of the early ‘70’s. We’re talking about those English bands that staggered out of the pubs and defined a genre by playing from the heart. Stone Axe pay homage to Free, Small Faces, Deep Purple, Thin Lizzy, Leafhound and Black Sabbath et al in quite the most convincing fashion we have heard since Fu Manchu and Kyuss emerged a decade or so ago…. French act YEAR OF NO LIGHT meanwhile orbit the guitar-heavy early 90's alt rock of bands like Swervedriver and Dinosaur Jr., The Cure and My Bloody Valentine, whilst also drawing on the arty, crushing metallic post-hardcore pioneered by Old Man Gloom and Neurosis. Check out a stunning live set on their “Live At Roadburn 2008” LP / DVD release. GOMER PYLE play heavy, groovy rock with a lot of psychedelic atmosphere added, and full length album “Idiots Savants” capture a diverse range of styles and moods; Heavy Stoner, Doom, Tripped Out soundscapes and some more regular song based material. This double vinyl set contains 2 extra tracks from the first Gomer Pyle EP.

Moving back through thirty years of Metal history brings us to the NWOBHM and...QUARTZ with their live album “Live Quartz” (Krescendo) which captures the band playing their hearts out and winning over audiences as they relentlessly toured the UK in support of legends such as Gillan, Def Leppard, Rainbow and Rush at the height of the NWOBHM – The resultant live album has never been released on cd before.

• DARK STAR will always be remembered by NWOBHM fans for their crowning glory “Lady Of Mars” which is included on the newly reissued “Dark Star” cd (Krescendo). However check the remainder of the album out and you’ll see that it isn’t all just about that track as the other tracks all ably show just how good a band Dark Star were back then.

Back in the early Eighties, Geordie act HELLANBACH delivered a stunning debut album with “Now Hear This” which despite huge sales is only now making it to cd for the first ever time on the Krescendo label – Massively influenced by early Van Halen the band were tipped for huge things by the UK Metal press but the band unfortunately fell apart after their second album “The Big H” (Krescendo). Pick up both these reissues to hear what might have been…

Away from Metal environs our reissue department has a quiet month but would like to recommend two excellent off the wall compilations…

EVERYBODY JIVE TO THE LONDON ROCK (Psychic Circle) captures the moment in the late to mid Fifties when in the UK jazzmen, dance band members, crooners and hopeful kids were suddenly buying guitars, greasing back their hair and rockin’ like there was no tomorrow, inspired by US imports with exotic names like Jerry Lee, Elvis, Buddy and Gene. No big names just a selection of what was happening in the basements and coffee bars of Britain at that most wonderful and innocent moment when Britain caught the Rock And Roll bug...

MUSIC FOR MENTALISTS (Psychic Circle) is a collection of truly bizarre one off single sides from some household names of yesteryear (Hilda Baker, Joe Loss, Michael Elphick, David Carradine and Reginald Bosanquet) who were quite clearly either losing their marbles or suffering from bad management – All mixed up with some one off novelty obscurities (cc: Rosebud’s cover of Arnold Layne anyone?) that time had quite properly forgotten. I for one will never recover from hearing the mighty Jim “Bullseye” Bowen’s “Jim Bowen Rap”. A truly bizarre collection…but somehow it works!

PHANTOM FAMILY HALO’s first album “The Legend Of Black Six” was memorably compared to “Syd Barrett jamming with Hawkwind or the 13th Floor Elevators in the height of the Krautrock frenzy, or The Birthday Party subdued to play a rendition of “‘The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway” by one critic and we are delighted to report that the band’s fine work continues on second album “Monoliths” (Karate Body) - Available from us for a limited time only on lovely double vinyl.

LES SAVY FAV “Plagues And Snakes” 7” (Rococo) limited to 1000 copies this picture disc was the second and last in the Australian series of tour singles and Rococo's first picture disc. Ltd quantity only left !

Whilst ALEXIS GIDEON may be working in areas well off the beaten track, eschewing both traditional children’s narrative style and the mores of contemporary hip-hop, his naïve charm and the depth of his imagination are enough to seduce any viewer. Check out the “Video Musics” DVD (Africantape) for his well thought out and compelling animated/claymated video opera made for kids, and inspired by traditional Hungarian Mythology and Folk Tales.

You may need some soothing sounds after the last few releases so how about the SENIOR ALL STARS “Hazard” LP (Liquidator) for a wind down? - Purely instrumental, Jamaican-influenced sounds: "Hazard" is based on familiar Senior Allstars ingredients -- instrumental reggae, dub elements and ska. But even more than its predecessors, "Hazard" succeeds in creating an amazingly dense, atmospheric laid back vibe. Lovely stuff indeed.

DIVIDING THE LINE – “At Least It’s Not Light” (A Wolf At Your Door) - Heavy touring throughout the UK and Europe and sharing stages with acts such as Enter Shikari, The Used, and Bring Me The Horizon, has gained this band an army of devoted fans and a reputation as one of the UK’s biggest underground acts. The band’s debut full length album boasts their most mature material to date and musically it is a must for fans of Thrice, Underoath and Biffy Clyro.

HELLBASTARD - “The Need To Kill” (Selfmadegod) is a stunning return to from the influential UK crossover metal/crust band. In addition to ten new vibrant thrash/hardcore songs, the band has included six re-recorded Hellbastard classics... This is a must-have for all fans of the first wave of British crust/metal/punk and bands like Amebix and Deviated Instinct. Also available is the mini album “Eco War (Selfamdegod) which shows another side to the influential, classic Hellbastard sound. Think of a unique mixture of Amebix etc paired with more modern metal like Lamb Of God.

TRUCKFIGHTERS – “Gravity X” – (Fuzzorma) is the long awaited rerelease of a true stoner classic which is redolent of classic Fu Manchu and Atomic Bitchwax – Two bands who by no small coincidence have been tour mates with the Truckies in recent years.

OBLITERATION – “Nekropsalms” – (Fysik Format) is the long awaited follow up to the bands critically acclaimed debut on Peaceville and re-sets the standard for all Black Metal releases put out this year.

WHILE HEAVEN WEPT - “"Vast Oceans Lachrymose," (Cruz Del Sur) Since 1989, WHW have not only contributed to the very definition of Epic Doom Metal, but with each release have continued to push the boundaries of the genre These new songs are far more progressive and aggressive than previous releases and should be ideal fodder for fans of Candlemass, early Fates Warning, Rush et al.

HANDFUL OF HATE - "You Will Bleed" (Cruz Del Sur) is a new chapter from one of the most extreme Black Metal bands ever... A mature, powerful and fast tribute to the old, underground Black Metal tradition of yesteryear.

IN MOURNING “Shrouded Divine” (Kolony) The stunning debut album of Sweden's In Mourning is finally available on the vinyl format. It’s a massively limited edition (500 copies worldwide), and comes with new exclusive artwork for this version only. Progressive / melodic death metal at its best, a piece of art for all fans of Opeth and Katatonia. Be quick or miss out with this one!

Don’t forget the Punks I hear you cry…As if we would!

Legendary veteran LA punk act T.S.O.L. has their latest album “Life, Liberty & the Pursuit of Free Downloads” (DC Jam) available on Limited Edition Picture Disc LP… Formed in 1979, and hailing from Long Beach, CA, T.S.O.L. has been a permanent fixture on the Southern California Hardcore scene for three decades. This excellent new release returns to their hardcore roots, Originally released as a free download to their fan club a few months back This LP will be the only physical format available.

RUNNIN RIOT – “Boots And Ballads” (Rebellion) - Fourth album by Belfast's top street punk band, featuring eleven brand new songs picking up where their previous ones all left off….Some top quality in your face street punk with snarly Northern Irish vocals.

The finest in Oi!, Punk and Hardcore Underground bands pay tribute to the late great Johnny Cash on the “INTERNATIONAL UNDERGROUND TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH” CD (Rebellion).Yes you read it right the man in black was an inspiration not only to rock’n’roll and country bands all over the world but also to Oi!, Punk and Hardcore bands from the worldwide underground. Excellent stuff.

TEENAGE REHAB – “Let’s Be Enemies” (Jailhouse) - Recorded and Engineered by punk legend Joe Queer, this album features seventeen tracks of their best material to date. Impossible to accurately shelve into a particular sub genre, the album goes from short and fast hardcore, to pop punk sing a long’s, with even an occasional pop love song thrown in for good measure. However it’s safe to say that if you enjoy Screeching Weasel, The Queers or Ramones then you are in very safe hands here!

Collectors of classic KBD era Punk will be thrilled by the latest batch of releases on the always reliable Rave Up label…

First up are CARDIAC KIDZ whose “Get Up” LP collects two great records from 1979, the amazing single ‘Get Out/Find Yourself a Way’ and ‘Playground’ 7" EP. The Cardiac Kidz were featured on two ‘Killed by Death’ compilation albums and enjoy “godfathers of punk” status in their native San Diego.

NERVEBREAKERS – “Hijack The Radio” LP is the Texan punk rock gods’ definitive collection! Killer unreleased studio tracks and a great sound quality live show recorded in 1979 are packaged with great photos and definitive liner notes.

THE ACTION – “Slashing White Hot” LP. One of Ottawa, Canada’s first punk bands. This collection collates their short but wild career from 1977-’78 including their debut 12-inch and a recording for a never-released follow-up EP, plus some smokin’ live tracks. A must for KBD collectors and those looking for the roots of great Canadian acts like the Nils, Diodes, DOA and Subhumans

THE SHITDOGS – “World War 3” LP - From Baton Rouge these Ramone-ish long haired punks maniacs discography is well know to KBD collectors This collection include their mega rare "History of Cheese" EP, the second EP "You Bet!", and some amazing unreleased cuts.

THE DAWGS – “Outside Of Time” - LP – Hailing from Boston in the late 1970's and inspired by sixties garage bands and local idols Real Kids, the band recorded a killer three-song EP and one full album on before disbanding. Now, finally in 2009, this amazing band’s music is made available on LP with the best selection of great unreleased studio recordings and their immortal hits. A must for every Boston rock’n’roll fan.

THE WARMJETS – “Wanna Start A War” LP -Philadelphia’s punk rock finest band! Started in 1977, this lot had a punk ethos, but laced with a potent pop mentality and a big sense of pure theatricality that reminded one of suck disparate outfits as Sparks, The Weirdos, Mumps, Dickies, and Monkees! Unfortunately the band recorded only one acetate and few studio tracks – but all can be found on this anthology.

THE READYMADES – “San Francisco: Mostly Alive” LP This anthology contains all the SF bands recordings, studio unreleased and demos and more recorded between 1977 and 1979. A pivotal art punk presence in the original SF Punk scene.

Back to the UK now, and a new DEMENTED ARE GO collection “Tangenital Madness” (Fury Records) which is a must for all Psychobilly fans.

AUSTERE – “Only the Wind Remembers” – (Eisenwald) is a deluxe digisleeve MCD reissue of some early unissued Austere work. More specifically two 2 long tracks which have been taken from the split release with UK's Lyrinx and were recorded in October 2007.... This re-issue comes with a carefully designed and deluxe digisleeve package with a printed inner-pocket.

PARACHUTES –“The Working Horse” (Redfield) is a stunning mix of emo, screamo, and hardcore – if Underoath, Taking Back Sunday, Rise Against, Silverstein, The Used, From Autumn To Ashes, or Caliban, to name just a few are your bag then please do yourself a favour and put aside any prejudices you may have against European bands and pick up on this fine German outfit.

We are running out of space now but the Metal Department would like to big up the newly acquired catalogues of Amputated Vein ( killer death Metal releases from the likes of ENMITY, EVISCERATED and CYANOSIS) and Witching Hour ( killer European metal from the likes of CARNAL, MASTIPHAL and LOST SOUL).

And as always we would implore you to support some local British talent vis:

TORTUGA’s – “Kings Of Albany” LP (Anchors Aweigh) raging out of Northern
England and sounding like a killer mix between Converge and Botch.
MACHIAVELLIAN – “The Impossibility Of Death In The Mind’s Of The Living” (Glasstone) an excellent five piece metal band from Lancashire
NEVERBORNE – “In Absence Of Fear” (Glasstone) Originally hailing from South Africa, now reside in Surrey, with their five track debut EP - A great mix of Punk, Rock, Death Metal and hardcore.
EVERYTHING ON RED – “Rotator” (Lockjaw) An exciting blend of Cursive, Brand New and Minus The Bear influences on this Staffordshire bands debut cd
BULL SEE RED – “A Girl Called Murder” (Lockjaw) Busting out of the thriving South-West scene and mixing influences from all over the spectrum ( everything from Smashing Pumpkins to Refused ) to make a monster debut .

Remember all these releases are available from all decent, and some quite indecent, online stores and Independent Record stores…See y’all next month…

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Hello and welcome to the Code 7 website for a look at October’s new releases:

Hopefully you have all had the chance to check out the new addition to the Code 7 Family - Decoded. Click on the link above and browse our releases in more detail, search by genre, label or band. Every month a new issue will be released so you will be always up to speed with what Code 7 is releasing. The October issue has just been published so don’t let that important release pass you by....

First up this month is “Meet Me Halfway At Least” the stunning second release from DEAF HAVANA (A Wolf At Your Door) which closely follows last year’s ironically titled and critically acclaimed EP ‘It’s Called The Easy Life’. One year later and the Norfolk quintet have honed and refined their sound and are releasing their most exciting material to date. Expanding on the band’s melodic capabilities hinted at on their EP, the bands new record is brimming with raw emotional and hook laden songs that makes for one hell of an album. With strong press support and a sixteen date UK headline tour in the offing, the band look like serious contenders for the UK Metal crown held by the likes of Lostprophets and Funeral For A Friend in recent times.

Moving across the Atlantic, Columbus Ohio to be exact, we find STRUCK BY LIGHTNING with their raging new album “Serpents” (Translation Loss). A mixture of fist pumping-basement punk rock (Think the aggression of bands like His Hero Is Gone and Disfear) with the progressive rock and metal acrobatics of bands like Mastodon. The band have some pedigree too, as they feature Gregory Lahm (previously of Mouth Of The Architect) on vocals and guitars. All told thi is a highly recommended release for fans of Mastodon, Tragedy, Big Business, Disfear, Baroness, Melvins and Coliseum

Formed in 2004 and already having made quite a reputation within the underground CRUCIFIST are finally set to release their debut album “Demon Haunted World” (Profound Lore) to the hungry masses. Featuring bassist Danny Lilker of Brutal Truth / Nuclear Assault infamy aswell as members of thrash band Orodruin, Crucifist’s interpretation of old-school black metal fury harks back to the glory days of acts like Hellhammer, Celtic Frost, Venom and Bathory. Crucifist also incorporate elements that reference the shining glory of the NWOBHM and of course the doom and gloom of classic Black Sabbath to make this one of the classic Metal debuts of recent years

Lablemates PORTAL hail from Australia, and their geographical isolation may account for their new album “Swarth” (Profound Lore) being the most distinctive and unique death metal album we have heard in a long long time. Sure you may hear touches of genre legends like Immolation, Morbid Angel and Beherit in the band’s sound, but Portal have taken the sound to new unparalleled levels and this may well become a lot of critics Death Metal album of the year…

Mellowing out somewhat we find the new album from RACHEL GRIMES “Book Of Leaves” (Ruminance Records). Rachel Grimes’ music has quietly evolved through a diversity of musical ventures, including six releases with the critically acclaimed indie chamber group Rachel’s. “Book of Leaves” finds her at the height of her creativity - an album of impressionist piano pieces, largely pastoral, incorporating field recordings made outdoors. Engineer Steve Albini characterized Rachel’s records as ‘part movie, part sound sculpture, part lush romantic porch song’ and you can easily carry those references on to this release but maybe add in a touch of Philip Glass and Kronos Quartet influences to complete a truly unique ‘modern day chamber music’ sound.

British singer RHYS MARSH has relocated to Norway and releases his magnum opus, “Dulcima” (Termo) featuring the cream of the crop of Scandinavian prog rock musicians: Mattias Olsson from Änglagård, Lars Fredrik Frøislie from Wobbler, Trude Eidtang and Ketil Einarsen from White Willow. Taking a quantum leap forward from his critically acclaimed debut of progressive singer/songwriter music, “Dulcima” is a full-blown modern progressive rock album, full of darkness and beauty. To us it sounds somewhat like David Sylvian fronting 70’s King Crimson – but with some Middle Eastern influences thrown in for good measure.

A couple of great Reggae releases this month! – First up we have JOE ARIWA & THE TRIXSTERS – “Dubstep Dub” – (Ariwa) Trixster, Joe Ariwa and Kar Melody have had the privilege of access to both the Ariwa studios and the Mad Professor’s archives where they have sampled borrowed and reshaped rare Ariwa classics in the Dubstep style. Musically Dubstep is distinguished by it’s use of snare sounds that are similar to Garage and Grime’s emphasis on bass and frequently producing sounds reminiscent of classic Reggae or Funky US Garage, which explains why this collaboration works so well…

Next meet the next generation of UK dub on new album JOE ARIWA MEETS YOUNG WARRIOR (Ariwa) Young Warrior and Joe Ariwa are the sons of Dub Reggae legends Jah Shaka and Mad Professor. Two young men from South London that know exactly how it feels to live up to the legacy of their fathers, and with their own unique styles combining perfectly they really have come up with the goods on this album.

Standout Punk release this month is the new COBRA SKULLS album “American Rubicon” (Gunner Records). The Cobras are very much their own beast but early in their career the group received comparisons to bands like Against Me! and the Dead Kennedys; but on this record, it seems they’ve finally found their own distinctive sound and have unleashed a monster of a Punk record. Political, intelligent and catchy as swine flu. Anyone who has been moved by intelligent Punk acts like Propaghandi and Dillinger Four in the last decade needs to hear this record.

Our reissue department has been salivating at the mouth with the latest two CHROME reissues. This month sees remastered and fully annotated reissues of this legendary American Post Punk bands’ second and third albums “Half Machine Lip Moves” and “Alien Soundtracks”. These are both hugely influential albums that have been out of print for years and are must stock items for any serious reissue dealers out there…

On a more obscure, but still noteworthy, tack is DAVID PEEL and the limited reissue of his “War And Anarchy” album (Noiseville) Since his career began on Elektra records in the mid-60’s, then on to the Beatles Apple Records, Peel has found appreciation from those looking for a unique take on the hippy music scene. This album, which was mostly recorded in 1978, features Wayne Kramer from the MC5 on guitar who plays tripped out solos throughout each song. This is the first time this material has been made available to the public. Only 1000 copies made.

BLOSSOM TOES “What On Earth” (Sunbeam ) collects home demos and studio recordings, including previously unheard songs as well as early renditions of material that appeared on their July 1969 swansong, If Only For A Moment. Ranging from delicate ballads to heavy psychedelic rock, the set is a veritable treasure trove for the band’s legion of admirers.

After the Blossom Toes split ‘Little’ Brian Godding and ace bassist ‘Big’ Brian Belshaw decided to keep playing together, and added former band mate Kevin Westlake to form B.B. BLUNDER. Described as ‘psycho-rock’ the album they made over the ensuing months “Worker’s Playtime” (Sunbeam) is presented here in its fullest-ever version, including a full bonus disc of previously unreleased out-takes, guest appearances by Driscoll, Mick Taylor, Brian Auger and others, and a packed booklet featuring detailed historical notes, and rare photos.

GET SMARTER (Past And Present) is a super cool compilation of ‘60s instrumental singles , no less than eighteen killer tracks of freaky go-go phased Hammond wig-outs, groovy party rave-ups, trippy psych weirdness and laid back lounge-influenced funky pop jazz...and as with all P&P releases, the cd is supported with an informative booklet. Grooovy.

Moving back to the present day and “Hollywood Monsters”, the rip-roaring debut album from London punk 'n' roll supergroup, THE DE RELLAS. Featuring former members of The Vibrators and The Glory Strummers, their all guns-blazing live performances has included supports to kindred spirits such as Hanoi Rocks, The Bellrays and New York Dolls. Highly recommended for fans of The Ramones, The New York Dolls, The Stooges and The Sex Pistols.

Los Angeles’ hardcore quintet CONFIDE debut album, ‘Shout The Truth’ (Tragic Hero Europe) is a raging modern hardcore classic, which the band will be supporting with a UK headline tour in October. One of the leaders of the independent rock scene in America over the past 12 months, the band is causing a stir with their controversial cover of The Postal Service’s ‘Such Great Heights.’ Definitely worth checking out both live and on record if you are into The Bronx, He Is Legend Etc.

Reading sextet THE ARUSHA ACCORD follow the release of their critically acclaimed EP ‘Nightmares Of The Ocean’, by unleashing their debut full length ‘The Echo Verses’ (A Wolf At Your Door). The band has expanded on their song structuring, technicality and trademark sporadic rhythms to make a startlingly strong debut album. The release is supported by a 23 date UK tour with A Textbook Tragedy which fans of Architects, Dillinger Escape Plan, and Sikth should really get themselves along to.

IO MONADE STANCA is a young post rock group from Italy. The band’s raw sound is captured in full – lolloping drums and resonating guitars are smattered with strained vocals and grotesque cries – on their new album “The Impossible Story Of Bu Bu” (Africantape). Their technical, scientific, and unique sound recalls acts like Maps & Atlases and Polvo.

Don’t forget the Punks I hear you cry! As if we would…

Richmond, Virginia is one of the major strongholds for punk on the east coast of the United States. So it’s only natural that LANDMINES and their excellent album “Landmines” (Gunner Records) hail from the city. Like fellow hometown heroes Avail and Strike Anywhere., their influences stem from the intelligent punk legends of recent decades such as Hot Water Music, Verbal Assault, The Bouncing Souls, and Jawbreaker. The album is passionate, personal, political, melodic, relevant, fast, fun and a must listen for punkers old and new.

“Eagles And Vultures” (Downtown Academy) is the highly anticipated album from Northern California’s PULLOUT, putting a hardcore spin on the emerging Northern California music scene. Combining sounds of early 80’s punk, such as Black Flag or Void, mixed with the newer hardcore sounds of Fucked Up or Modern Life is War, the band has established itself as a presence in the punk community and is heading to Europe this winter….

Atlanta’s UNTIED STATES LP, “Instant Everything, Constant Nothing” (DISTILE) is recommended to post hardcore fans and is another giant step forward in the evolution of their sound, employing an even wider array of electronic sound mixed with devastatingly orchestrated punk. Fans of At The Drive In et al will find much of interest here. rock riffs

Tribute albums are often disappointing affairs but not so the “CARRY THE BANNER – A TRIBUTE TO KID DYNAMITE” LP (Black Numbers). Kid Dynamite was one of the most influential hardcore punk bands of the last twenty years and this stunningly packaged Double LP features covers by some of today's most relevant bands complete with liner Notes’ by Kid Dynamite Members Dan Yemin and Dave Wagenshutz. Includes tracks from Static Radio NJ, No Trigger, Deny Everything, Comadre and The Ergs!

Speaking of Kid Dynamite ex-members of the band can be found on the HIGHER GIANT “Al’s Moustache” 7” (Black Numbers) alongside ex-members of Good Riddance, Lifetime, Grey Area, Token Entry and Warzone. With that pedigree you would be entitled to expect some high tempo fists in the air catchy hardcore punk and man do they deliver just that with four tracks of exactly the kind of furious melodic punk associated with their former bands.

The debut full-length LP from STATIC RADIO NJ “An Evening Of Bad Decisions” (Black Numbers) not only delivers on the foundation of the band's early achievements, it proudly builds a towering skyscraper of soaring melodic punk rock anthems on top of it. Songs like "Marc," "Places" and "The Waiting Game" overflow with crunchy riffs, buoyant rhythms and choruses that are so infectious they need blood tests.

Started in Edinburgh in January of 2009, SHIELDS UP are a five piece hardcore band who play no nonsense hardcore inspired by the old school as much as the new. In the short time the band have been together they have recorded this thirteen track self titled CD (Wasted State) and toured the UK to much success. Recommended for fans of Strike Anywhere or the Bridge 9 labels roster of new/old school hardcore bands.

Also of interest to old school punk fans will be the fabulously titled “SHUT THE FUCK UP AND LISTEN VOL 2” 7” (Pig Records) which has no less than eleven tracks on it, including new tunes from legends like D.O.A, Misfits and Dehumanizers in it’s grooves.

Some excellent British “Class Of 77” punk vinyl releases are to be found this month staring with a 7” from the legendary BOYS , entitled “Jimmy Brown” (Still Unbeatable) the single includes three songs that were recorded around the time of their classic debut album but were never officially released as a single. Now almost 30 years after The Boys rejected it as a possible single it is finally available via Still Unbeatable records, but only as a limited edition of 500 copies…be quick!

Also limited to 500 copies is THE STIFFS “Innocent Bystander” 7” (Still Unbeatable). Featuring two tracks recorded for Zonophone in 1980 that were never released as EMI cancelled the release of the bands third single for the label at the very last minute. Newly remastered from recently discovered original mastertapes this is the first time ever these tracks have been available.

HONEST JOHN PLAIN is an original member of the aforementioned Boys”, and has a new exclusive 12 song limited vinyl record entitled “Untuned” (Still Unbeatable) that includes never before released a