Walk Into The Sea

Tracks of the Year 2013

2013-12-12T22:05:00.004+00:00

The most self-indulgent time of year is here. Whilst all the hip and cool websites are blasting out their end of year lists from some happening hangout with ground coffee and cake on the go, I'm sat in the south of the city in the uncoolest place imaginable whilst my harmless colleagues discuss the highlights of the Daily Mail online whilst I cringe and wish I had brought my earplugs. Once again this is personal list, with only the 1 person making any input (didn't let the Johnson have her say). So many tunes could have been included here, but I've trimmed it to 30 which more than enough to get your teeth into.

I stopped doing the blog back in March, primarily because I didn't like ripping people off and that many with more time, energy, money, contacts and nous did it far much better than me, especially in terms of layout and style. I'd like to think the musical content of mine was up there, and some of the wit was quite good if you like the musings of a miserable bastard.

Anyway, no ripping off aloud (my computer is so shit I can't record mixes/rip music as it has no soundcard) so it's Youtube links etc. for previews and nice shiny artwork instead. Try and buy independent if you can and locally too. I have only included records I have bought (or intend to buy/should have bought/got caught out by some discogs bastard before I had the chance/can't afford or have been given from friends or via this blog). I have also included represses/reissues. With so much going on nowadays (I noticed Honest Jons were stocking Iranian music from 1903-Jesus), it all really blurs into one after a bit, and there's nothing worse than hearing a person go on about shit too much or old shit too much.

So onto the shit...

30. Jovonn-I Can't Make Up My Mind

Been wanting this tune ever since I saw a Youtube link in 1992. Joking aside, this was a welcome repress. Music like this should be available to more, and I'm very happy that it is.

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29. Rhye-Shed Some Blood

On Woman, Rhye produce an electronic pop album that is timeless. It could have surfaced 10-15 years and would still be given the same appreciation. 'Shed Some Blood' certainly impressed many making it on mixes by acclaimed selectors such as Lexx and Nick Acid Tree.

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28. Tessela-Hackney Parrot

Might be an obvious choice, but this is a belter and ticked all the boxes you need; heavy breaks; a significant drop, strings and some bird warbling over it to bring the dancefloor together.

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27. Ivano Tetelepta-113 (Outboxx Remix)

Dreamy, downtempo house cut on the cracking label that is Fear of Flying. This opened Outboxx's Mixmag mix, and I really started to feel at home musically within Bristol when I knew creativity like this was on the doorstep.

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26. First Choice-Love Thang (Genius of Time Rework)

Excellent rework from Genius of time. I was fortunate to snaffle a copy quickly before the vultures circled. Disco-house reworks, those of quality have been at a premium for some time. This did the business expertly.

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25. Pepe Bradock-Imbroglios

Pepe's Imbroglios series felt a bit all over the place. This isn't a criticism and was refreshing in the face of a plethora of deep house by numbers being released aimed at and for idiots. The lush beatdown vibes of the title track of the 4th instalment made it onto Gilles Peterson's show the other week. It will now hopefully make it into my record collection before long.

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24. Yo La Tengo-Ohm

In their 29th year with their 15th? album, the band strayed more towards their pop sensibilities with a record full of pop songs, with their 10-15 minute jams conspicuous by their absence. However opener 'Ohm' still packed a punch, albeit coated in sugar. The reason I probably love Yo La Tengo so much is that they keep it interesting and however complicated or a simple formula they stick to, it works effortlessly.

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23. Huerco S-Cercy

Another tune borne out of a visit to Freerotation. This really killed it in Room 3 when Joe Ellis dropped it. Upon hearing it via crappy computer speakers, I didn't take much notice. I was focused on the A side of 'Apheleia's Theme' with it's relentless drum pattern. That night at Freero changed that and 'Cercy' has been on heavy rotation ever since.

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22. Young Marco-In the Wind

Read an interview which really hit the spot with Young Marco recently. He discussed why people continue to fail to see the difference between being a DJ and a producer, rightly labelling them separate pursuits. It helps if you are good at both, which Marco certainly is. His selections are a bit on the eclectic side, but he can certainly notch it up when he wants. On the excellent compilation Musik for Autobahns by Gerd Janson, his track 'In the Wind' stood out (which is no tall order, ha) with it's chiming keys and 80s beat demonstrating his impressive streak as a producer.

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21. Moon B-A2

This may have officially come out in 2012 but it's in here regardless. Machine boogie/funk has certainly made waves of late. People's Potential have helped champion the sound along with fellow U.S. label Omega Supreme. A2 soars into a sweet groove amidst the griminess of some of the production and heavier and edgier workouts.

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20. Bibio-Bequeath

Picked up this on 7" for a few quid, and it really is lovely. Was the B side for his preview single for his new album. I'd be honest, I'd never heard of him but he appears to be a Warp regular which is no bad thing. Sweet guitars chime over an optimistic beat. Need to pick up the LP.

BUY

19. Jacy-Touch Me

Through the trawl of deep releases that flood or actually bloody swamp the market, it's refreshing to find a hidden gem. Another beatdown track (I'm sure you can see a trend here; pipe and slippers for Christmas please) that is just ace. Bit of a throwback to the Burrell Brothers' relaxed moments.

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18. Royal Crown of Sweden-Malaren

The Swedish alter-ego of Huerco S surfaced on Anthony Naples' own record label with an altogether impressive EP. Malaren went filter happy with a soul sample and sounded like the best of what Soundstream could come up with.

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17. Outboxx-Home

Quality LP on my local store/label Idle Hands. I was expecting good time house after the Sunshine Mills EP, however from the first track I realised there was more to it than that. Blessed with some great R&B/broken beat type moments, alongside the deep and darkness of the D side, 'Home' captured the great optimism I find in music, away from the unforgiveable shite this world produces.

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16. The National-This is the Last Time

Whilst the National went onto superstardom, original bedwetters like me can still look back smugly seeing them in a small room and reciting memories from the first couple of albums. The new album was still very strong. Despite all the money, fame, success, critical acclaim and that fact he's now in his 40s, Matt Berninger still sounds like a late 20s/early 30s something geezer who drinks too much and is heading nowhere. This is no bad thing.

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15. Mr Beatnick-Symbiosis

Mr Beatnick rounded of his trilogy of releases for Don't Be Afraid and once again (I'm sure his thrilled to know) made my end of year list. Whilst Parallax Scroll did it for many, 'Symbiosis' oozed the class and swagger that I enjoyed with his two previous DBA records. The sort of tracklist you want to do backflips to it's so good.

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14. Jordan GCZ-Crybaby J

Sunday, Freerotation, Move D, Dome Tent. My favourite Sunday of the year was once again enhanced by quality music and good times, none better than hearing Move D drop his mate's 'Crybaby J' track in the dome. The fact that it was 30 degrees in a valley in Wales helped too.

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13. A Sagittariun-Conquering Lions

Gone for the obvious from the LP, but to tell the truth haven't given it enough time to digest the rest of it yet. Been far too busy banging this on. Amen break revivial? Not interested. Good tune? I'm sold.

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12. Maricopa-Pastel Love

His previous release on Tusk was nigh on perfect. A template in modern day ambience. Some call it Balearic beatdown (whatever that is) but whatever you want to call it, it was difficult to follow. On Pastel Love, he continued in a similar vein with a little more punch. Love how this guy has got his own sound down to a tee.

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11. Bill Callahan-Small Plane

On an album entitled Dream River, 'Small Plane' floats more than glides through the air, at one with the outside world. I don't think anyone captures the individuality with nature better than Bill Callahan. A calm amidst a shitstorm that is planet earth, the beauty that encapsulates the narrative on this track is as comforting and peaceful as a day by a lake, with no one except animals and nature around. Quite a deep review for a track, but Callahan's captured hope and beauty with this LP, the darkness of his previous work (his last album especially) may have been left behind.

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10. Spike-Fooling Around

After being tempted to buy the 'New Germany' and 'Magic Table' singles, I thought I'd hold out for the compilation, which took bloody ages to come out. Hearing 'Fooling Around' on a mix by Andras Fox (and not realising what it was) pleasantly surprised me when I finally gave the LP a spin. People online have commented that this should have been spread over 2 x 12". This music wouldn't be in their lives if it wasn't for the foresight and digging of the respective label owners. People should just shut up and enjoy it.

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9. Beautiful Swimmers-The Zoo

Didn't get round to hearing the LP by the Washington Duo but did catch them DJ at Dekmantel Festival in Amsterdam in the summer and it was another great Sunday afternoon. Their debut track on L.I.E.S. has certainly caught my ear. It's been a pretty big year for the label, however most of it hasn't been to my tastes, as I'm too much of a soft bastard. (I was going to include 'Feelin' by Florian Kupfer but after failing to buy it twice and not yet hearing it through a decent system I'd opted to leave it out, sure it will appear on other lists elsewhere). Their Music for Shut Ins sampler brings me right back in on 'The Zoo' with heavy breaks, full of funk and swagger. A party track that will be in peoples bag's for years.

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8. Mashine-Awake

This is from a really low key 10" that appeared on Anton Zap's Ethereal Sound label. All 4 tracks were pretty different from each other, but this ambient relaxed closer did it for me. With deep house at saturation point, it's nice when a label firstly known for its 'deepness' continues to think outside the box (Tom Ellis' digital release on this label was wicked too).

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7. Anthony Naples-El Portal

Felt like a proper record store knob when I bought this earlier in the year. Once again being in a city with proper record stores, I went in, asked what they recommended, gave a few listen and came home with this. The EP overall was excellent, but the opener hit the spot relentlessly before swirling down to sound like a Peter Green solo with feedback.

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6. Walter Hawkins-Metropolis

Psychemagik's Magik Sunrise was by far my favourite compilation of the year. In a year when I have probably listened to less house music since I was about 22, I found comfort in songs about heartfelt issues, which always connect with me more than a loop made on a computer (not that this isn't ace too). Even though I took the opposite path from the country to the city, 'Metropolis' hopeful but desperate lyrics over a lovely groove dreams of a better life away from all the trappings of modernity; speaks volumes today more than it ever did. Living off the land is an ideal I've read in the works of Derrick Jensen this year. Really hit home when listening to this.

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5. Dial 81-Any Time

More downtempo R&B, so so good. Combining the ambient sounds of Detroit's Dial 81 (Check out the documentary Detropia-he scores the film) and the soulful vocals of Paul Randolph who has worked with Jazzanova and Dixon in the past; 'Any Time' is modern soul at it's best, mainly without words. Music to do anything to.

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4. Inc.-Trust (Hell Below)

What most impressed me in 2013 so much with new music was that what many presented were fresh, unique, relevant and required. Inc. being on a UK indie label, seemed to suggest for critics they must have had crossover appeal that lured indie types. No crossover appeal is required when the music is this good. A great album.

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3. Low-Clarence White

2013 marked the 20th year as Low as a band. Whilst it's nigh on impossible to hit the heights (or the depths) that their first few albums hit, with each new album the quality of the song writing (and the harmonies-oh the harmonies) continue to shine through. The steady beat turns this song into a bit of a monster. Their reworked video version and catching it live really re-enforced its power.

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2. Jessy Lanza-Kathy Lee

From hearing the first crackle and beat, it's no surprise that Jeremy Greenspan is behind this. 'Kathy Lee' is effortless and cool. Her vocal is so restrained and sincere that it almost mesmerises. I need to get her album to appreciate this fully.

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1. Andras Fox-Running Late

Hands down my most played track of the year and my overall favourite. Andras Fox came out of nowhere as a unique talent. The analogue house revival may be boring some, but when it's as soulful and as full of life as this, who cares. His selections on his mixes are on the money too. Just check out his LN-CC and Boiler Room mixes for proof. Have a good holiday.

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Bjorn Torske-Gullfjellet

2013-03-17T08:36:00.000+00:00

Some lovely Scandinavian electronica on Smalltown Supersound for your Sunday from Bjorn Torske. A perfect accompaniment to your Sunday morning or your afternoon's post-roast coma.

Bjorn Toske-Gullfjellet (buy)

Unknown Artist-Story 6

2013-03-16T15:31:00.001+00:00

Some unknown artist mystery artist BS going down here. I heard the person behind Story Records was Cottam, whoever it is should own up and get the praise they deserve. Story 6 from last year is a belter full of snappy organic beats and delightfully warm chords to compliment over it's three excellent tracks. With hordes of disco tinged house swarming the market, its often ones underneath the surface and hype that deserve the real attention. Wouldn't of sounded out of place on DJ Nature's album. God knows where you can still buy it. If you can find please part with your purse.

Unknown Artist-Story 6

Brawther-Gsm's Life (MLIU Dub)

2013-03-13T18:32:00.002+00:00

This track has been doing the rounds for a while. I'd forgotten all about it until a mate of mine included it in his radio show recently and then it popped up again on my ipod on Bicep's FADER mix during a rather miserable cycle to work. Quality house music. Shame the vinyl is unobtainable unless your immune to austerity. Brawther plays the excellent Manchester night Content at the end of the month. Check more about it here.

Brawther-Gsm's Life (MLIU Dub) (buy)

DJ Nature-1970

2013-03-12T18:24:00.003+00:00

The 'Nature Boy' got on a bit and all he left us with was 'Return of the Savage'. Probably the best house/disco album of 2012. Landing a bit late for last years best of lists, many compared it (quite lazily in my opinion) to aspects of Moodymann/Theo Parrish due the fact he's lived stateside for 20 plus years, but for me it's just high quality dance music full of samples harking back to a time when the market wasn't so diluted with tired shit sounding like it was made on a crusty keyboard. As the Ransom Note magazine noted, 'this shit breathes'.

DJ Nature-1970 (buy)

The Bristol boy done good comes back for a home appearance this Saturday 16th March together with Felix Dickinson, Futureboogie DJs, Wolf Music DJs plus residents for a heavy night at Factory Studios. Get tickets here.

Aqua Bassino-A Mellow Key

2013-03-11T19:03:00.000+00:00

I share with you today some lovely 90s French Touch by Aqua Bassino on F Communications. This can be heard on my old pal's Jwalk's mix which appeared on Balearic Social last weekend. Check out their soundcloud page for a great selection of mixes or tune in every Sunday morning from 8am-10am on Purple Radio for their weekly show.

Aqua Bassino-A Mellow Key (buy)

Torn Hawk-Tarifa

2013-03-09T16:59:00.002+00:00

L.I.E.S. records' releases are now an event for some and most of the time disappear just as quickly as they arrive. Amid all the house and techno goodness they offer there's plenty of other shit going on, such as ambient weird shit like Torn Hawk's 'Tarifa' EP. Some of the more popular releases have been given a repress; with label head Ron Morelli endearing himself to the record buying public by ensuring any record stores charging overinflated prices for these re-releases would never stock L.I.E.S. records again. This is yet to get a repress yet. Many wait in hope.

Torn Hawk-Tarifa (buy)

Morelli, Steve Summers, Deloy Edwards (basically a who's who of the L.I.E.S. roster) come to Bristol for a proper takeover on 6th April at Take Five Café on Stokes Croft, Bristol. Organised by Idle Hands (and situated next door) this is a party not to miss. Tickets only available in store!!

Thurston Moore-Benediction

2013-03-07T20:31:00.002+00:00

The coolest 50-something of rock surprised many with his mainly acoustic/bluesy-Beck produced album 'Demolished Thoughts' in 2011. It doesn't always have to be about noise. Beautiful.

Thurston Moore-Benediction (buy)

Moby Grape-I'm Not Willing

2013-02-05T19:45:00.002+00:00

I sometimes fail to understand what draws me to these kind of songs. Maybe it's the painful reality (the subject matter here is Peter Lewis' divorce); however I'd like to think it's the beauty.

Moby Grape-I'm Not Willing (buy)

Hot Coins-The Damage is Done

2013-02-03T20:41:00.000+00:00

When I was first asked to review music several years ago, I quickly hated pigeonholing artists under a particular style or genre. I understand that people's perceptions of an artist are grounded on what music they release and this builds an expectations for future releases, however I try to voice my opinion on the music itself, rather than on any pre-built conceptions. Unfortunately like anything, music has an image, a face and if that is compromised, people become skeptical. It's refreshing that some artists don't give one solitary shit about these pitfalls and follow their own path and do what their passionate about.

Red Rack'em (Danny Berman) has been producing high quality house music for a number of years most notably on his own Bergerac label, which especially pack a refreshing wonky workout to the dancefloor away from generic deep house and the recent 90s revival. As Hot Coins he's back with an altogether new project with a full band an a homage to music that he's passionate about; that of the cross-pollunation of scenes in the late 70s and early 80s which included bands such as Devo, Yellow, Shriekback and Gang of Four.

'The Damage is Done' in style and ambition isn't necessarily what other artists are releasing, but since when did that matter? It's self-confessed personal project and shouldn't worry about pandering to anybody. The album's scope is ambitious but it starts on a relatively quieter note. On 'Geek Emotions', Berman utilises City Hayes on vocals in a tale of the underdog, whilst on 'The Only Way' he outlines his desire to do things on his own terms, both in content and in style. He also for the first time (correct me if I'm wrong) applies his vocals, which continues throughout most of the album.

On 'Freestyle Lover' he applies the funk for a steady uptempo groove, which continues on 'Confined' which really wears it's influence on it's sleeve with it's unrelenting bassline, reminiscent of Gang of Four-albeit without their socialist backdrop.

My favourite side of the album is the last, with three mainly instrumental tracks. This is where the album moves more towards the party side of the movement, especially on 'Blizzard'. It's like he just can't help himself to get down and boogie. 'I Ching' wouldn't sound out of place on People's Potential Unlimited, modern boogie for modern times. This I highly suspect will be a major part of their impending live performances. Their debut live show will be in his adopted home city of Berlin at Salon Zur Wilden Renate on Saturday 16th February. On top of the band, the supporting cast is a stellar lineup including Hunee, JG Wilkes (Optimo), Ron Basejam and Toby Tobias. For more info check out the RA Event page here.

For clips and a podcast to celebrate the release, please see below. BUY the album from here, here, and maybe here.

Moon B-Freshness

2013-02-02T08:12:00.002+00:00

Moon B has appeared out of nowhere of late showcasing his love of boogie and more conventional 4/4 all wrapped up in a warm fuzzy glow. His Test Pressing LP on People's Potential is a great addition to their label and compliments earlier releases, especially the Uku Kutt retrospective which I picked up last year. With another EP also just hitting the shops right now, albeit more from a deep house angle he's certainly one to watch out for.

'Freshness' featured on Australian balearic radio show 'Noise in Your Head' recently and it hasn't left my stereo since. I don't think it has or will be released anytime soon.

Moon B-Freshness

Pick his new album and EP up here and maybe here and definitely here.

Motor City Drum Ensemble-Space Cadets

2013-02-01T09:13:00.001+00:00

After a bit if a burnout, MCDE when all quiet in 2012. However you can't keep a good man down and 2013 he will be back with a bang. 'Space Cadets' which came out on !K7 helped plug any gap created when released last year. Top draw house music as ever from Danilo Plessow.

Motor City Drum Ensemble-Space Cadets (buy)

Trus'me-W.A.R.

2013-01-23T19:17:00.001+00:00

Oh Manchester. So Much to Answer For. Was going to share some Smiths, but this weather is depressing enough. New album from the man from Little Hulton on the horizon too. This still kills it.

Trus'me-W.A.R. (buy)

Daughn Gibson-Ray

2013-01-21T19:04:00.002+00:00

The early part of any year usually comprises of failed diets, broken promises and empty pockets. It also benefits from discovering music from the previous year that had completely slipped you by. My favourite discovery so far has be Daughn Gibson's country/beats album entitled 'All Hell'. 'Ray', like much of the album is steeped in dark overtones; however the smooth beats and his deep baritone settles you in to a lovely and relaxing listen.

Daughn Gibson-Ray (buy)

Donald Byrd-Wind Parade (King Most's Dub 'Em Down Direction)

2013-01-18T14:47:00.001+00:00

Excellent rework of a Donald Byrd classic. I learn much from my selector hero, Gilles Peterson, you should too.

Donald Byrd-Wind Parade (King Most's Dub 'Em Down Direction)

Talking Heads-Listening Wind

2013-01-17T21:36:00.001+00:00

One for the heads. Hearing it on Ron Morelli's (L.I.E.S.) excellent Test Pressing mix and once again on Balearic Social this week reminded me once again just how good Talking Heads were. Time to watch 'Stop Makin' Sense' again. Top stuff.

Talking Heads-Listening Wind (buy)

Low-Just Make it Stop

2013-01-14T07:31:00.001+00:00

I toyed with the idea of sacking off this blog about a month ago. A lack of internet and a focus on home life and a transition to a new area left with me with much more to do than wailing away the hours making visitors to this blog enjoy excellent music. However a new Low album is on the horizon. That is more than enough to change my mind. There's snippets off the new album 'The Invisible Way' all over the internet, but officially the band and the label Sub Pop have decided to present 'Just Make it Stop' as an album preview. It's every bit as beautiful and majestic as what they've done before. Album drops in March, and a UK tour takes place in April. Get tickets here.

Low-Just Make It Stop

Tracks of the Year 10-1

2012-12-07T09:00:00.000+00:00

The Top Ten! Enjoy the usual festive bullshit and over indulgence.

10. Parallel Dance Ensemble-Occupied (Salax Peep Show Remix) (buy)

"Baby got your number". What a tune this is. Real hidden gem. I blogged about a different remix of this tune earlier in the year but soon fell in love with this. Nice slowed down groove, that has gone down well whenever I've played it.

9. Sad Ghost-Sweet Lady Magic (buy)

Glorious balearic soft rock edit from Sad Ghost. Sounds like the music that would be played in my own personal sanctuary. Beautiful. The guitar pattern at the end of the track was worth the money alone.

8. The Walkmen-Song for Leigh (buy)

Hamilton Leifhauser, despite being all setttled down can still belt out a desperate line. "I sing myself sick, I sing myself sick about you". However he's singing to her for life now. On an album of wonderful songs, this really stands out.

7. Mr Beatnick-Sun Goddess (buy)

My favourite house tune of the year. After hearing it on Gilles Petersen's show, I kept my eye on its release date and quickly snapped it up. The whole EP is ace, but the title track has the swagger that all great house tracks need.

6. Chromatics-Kill For Love (buy)

One of the most anticpated release of the year was certainly full of plently of highlights. Great avant-garde pop music, dark as hell at times to. This track became a favourite for the kids on the school run and was on repeat for weeks. They have great taste already. They're converted.

5. Kindness-House (buy)

Sublime pop music from Kindness. There was obviously something already there before Polydor stepped in with the cash; Phillipe Zdar enhanced it to fantastic heights.

4. Mark Eitzel-I Love You But You're Dead (buy)

Back from a heart attack and the brink, Mart Eiztel delivers his unique individual outlook on life with his new album. His voice just gets better with age. A tour in the new year to cherish.

3. Juju & Jordash-Way of The Road (buy)

From an album with fantastic depth, Juju & Jordash's album closer 'Way of the Road' takes us down a path of "Balearic Krautnock dreaminess". A perfect end to a gripping journey with a positive outlook toward what they may do next.

2. Portico Quarter-Ruins (buy)

Dynamic vibes, experimental arrangement and a lesson in how to use a 'hang' drum (or just telling us what it actually is) helped propel Portico Quartet firmly into my senses. That sax just kills it every time in 'Ruins'.

1. Colorama-Anytime (buy)

As cheesy and simple as this may sound, 'Anytime' for me describes the importance of other people in your life. Without them, you're nothing. Without you, they're nothing. Its helpful that this great premise is the backdrop of an excellent melody and beautiful music. Have a great Christmas.

Tracks of Year 30-11

2012-12-06T09:00:00.000+00:00

More tunage. Hopefully you'll discover something you like.

30. Moomin-Beautiful as You Are (buy)

Moomin featured in my list for last year and he's rightly earned his place again with some lush house that goes pretty bloody deep.

29. The Invisible-Wings (Floating Points Remix) (buy)

I don't blog about new music usually (except now) but when this came up I couldn't help myself. Electronic music that lasts forever.

28. Ajuaka & Maria Minerva-Ni Hea (buy)

Picked this up from Piccadilly on 10", after a brief in store listen I've have been for ever mesmeried by its steady shuffle, keys and fantastic voice. Eastern European vibin'.

27. Jason Grove-Unknown 1 (buy)

The story is reasonsbly well known in house music circles, that Jason Grove is a madeup monikor and this Detroit house comes from France rather than the motor city. I couldnt care less where it comes from, and from an album packed full of gems; this packs a meaty bunch every time.

26. Vakula-I Wanna Dance With You All My Life (buy)

More eastern European muzik from relentless Vakula. He certainly can mix it up a bit, and this shows his calmer side with 9 minutes of bliss, soaring synths and bassline that takes you places. Played this at closing time in a bar in Penryn, Cornwall. Unfortunately it wasn't '80's enough for them.

25. Daphni-Ahora (buy)

Dan Snaith's dancefloor vehicle full length LP didn't disappoint when it landed later this year. As I had played Ye Ye to death last year, I quickly immersed myself in the rest of the album especially 'Ahora'.

24. Magic Mountain High-A1 (buy)

A personal musical highpoint of the year was watching Magic Mountain High (Move D & Juju & Jordash) stunning live set at Freerotation Festival. I quickly got hold of their release on Workshop and wasn't disappointed. Demanding, relentless and forceful. It's what's live sets should be, looks and more importantly sounds better than a guy hiding behind an apple logo.

23. Sandro Perri-The Drums (Slow Hands Remix) (buy)

Summery remix for those days at the beach from Slow Hands from the impressive Sandro Perri. For good times all round.

22. Lauer-Frontex Slowfox (buy)

Philip Lauer makes a second appearance on my list, with a cut off his self-titled album. The album as a whole is full of 80s style synths with lots of nu-disco leanings. This track-though absent on the vinyl version-is full of depth. A stunning album where showcasing just one track doesn't really do it justice.

21. I Like Trains-Reykjavik (buy)

My favourite UK band in the past few years returned in 2012 with their new album 'The Shallows'. This track was probably my favourite from it, but after hearing a stunning live version at the Deaf Insitute probably sealed it. Music for blokes.

20. Delroy Edwards-4 Club Use Only (buy)

New York label, Long Island Electrical Systems (L.I.E.S.) blew up in 2012 and it's easy to see why after listening to this. Omar S type beats and arrangement makes this a very fine house track. Their output is varied though, with most releases (such as this one) disappearing from the shelves rather quickly.

19. Jessica Pratt-Night Faces (buy)

Teary folk of the highest order from San Francisco's Jessica Pratt. It helps that she has a truly amazing voice.

18. Crooked Fingers-Heavy Hours (buy)

This may have officially been released in 2011, but its not officially out in the UK yet so it makes my list. Eric Bachmann once agains delivers with this album highlight, a tale of a sombre note, making it clear to us that he feels regret and longing never really go away.

17. Jens Lekman-Erica America (buy)

Jen's second entry on my list has a shiny balearic-y pop song feel to it.

16. Cale Parks-The Big Bust

The drummer from rock band Yeasayer delivers some ambient electronica and it's beautiful. I'm not sure if this is released (or ever will be) but its lovely, dying to be pressed onto vinyl along with another track on his soundcloud 'N1'. For some strange reason I used to have a rather tight shirt with this guys face on (think I got it free from the Polyvinyl store) that has dissappeared. Anyway, someone get this released!

15. Damien Jurado-Life Away From the Garden (buy)

Another excellent album from Damien Jurado. As one blogger succintly put, it seems that every time you roll out of bed, it seems Jurado has gone and released another masterpiece. 'Life Away From the Garden' is an up front discussion of religion and spirituality.

14. Huerco S.-No Jack (buy)

Slowed down house with a garage feel to it. US newcomer's exciting releases puts him in the category of ones to keep your eye on. I played this a hell of a lot this year.

13. Loops of Your Heart-Cries (buy)

More stunning electronica from Loops of Your Heart. This 11 minute epic sounds like it could have been the highlight of Boards of Canada's Geogaddi. An essential LP.

12. Begin-Next Image (buy)

'Next Image' is a dreamy and breezy cut that I couldnt get enough of this year. It was the first I had heard of Begin, but then like alot of artists nowadays, I had heard of him in his other guises. His new track on soundcloud is the shit too.

11. Wild Nothing-Paradise (buy)

The new band dynamic accompanies Jack Tatum's songwriting well. This was well demonstrated on the dreamy track 'Paradise' of their new album.

Tracks of the Year 50-31

2012-12-04T23:39:00.002+00:00

Another year, another list. Fired off earlier this year as I soon will be without internet access until January (actually looking forward to it). I thought I'd struggle in putting this together as I've spent a fair amount of time (and money) buying reissues and old records and searching for old obscure shit online. However after thinking about what I've enjoyed this year it soon became easy. As always its a completely personal list, jumping between all sorts. Enjoy.

50. Fritz Kalkbrenner-Ruby Lee (buy)

Ace rework of the Bill Withers track on respected German label, Suol. Like much of their releases it gets people on the floor.

49. Porcelain Raft-Backwords (buy)

All in all, Porcelain Raft's debut album was a pretty good start. 'Backwords' reeks of good old fashioned lo-fi desperation and longing.

48. Tuff City Kids-SFS (buy)

Big booming house with a heavy thud. Bloody relentless shit from Gerd Janson and Phillip Lauer (he will appear on his own later in my top 50). Can always imagine several hundred people going nuts in a sweaty dingy club when it drops.

47. Rug Dug-Tape 13 (buy)

Late entry into the list is an all North West affair that has only just dropped. Ruf Dug, catalysts behind the ace party that is Wet Play contribute a slice of Chicago tinged deep shit for Deep Space Orchestra's latest Use of Weapons release.

46. Nick Anthony Simoncino-Distant Planet (Larry Heard Remix) (buy)

Simoncino's dedication to analogue synths came in the shape of the cheekily entitled 'The Dream of Amnesia'. It's highlight was a 12 minute killer remix the man behind the original 'Amnesia'; the legend that is Larry Heard.

45. Mount Eerie-Through the Trees pt. 2 (buy)

Phil Elevrum still hasn't come in from the cold. On one of two albums released this year (admittedly I've not heard the second), he continues to showcase music with depth, calm and solitude. On Throught the Trees pt2 he once again speaks of his fondness and his acceptance of his local surroundings, that they are his destiny and the point of which he can view the world from.

44. Seconds-Another Day (Lexx Remix) (buy)

I have featured Lexx here on many occasions for his astute selections, but here he once again demonstrates he is an adept remixer with 'Another Day', a fine cut of Balearic melancholia.

43. Professor Genius-Valley of Paradise (Steve Summers Remix) (buy)

Professor Genius' full length album of label of the moment Long Island Electrical Systems is an ambitious piece of work and not something I've yet put my full attention to. However this remix included in the release is an excellent mid tempo atmospheric jaunt into our senses.

42. Sun Kil Moon-Sunshine in Chicago (buy)

Mark Kozelek takes comfort in the relative discomfort of getting on and points out differences from his audience now to back in the 90s in the delightful 'Sunshine in Chicago'.

41. Jens Lekman-She Doesn't Want To Be With You Anymore (buy)

Jens Lekman once again showcased in 2012 his talent in creating sad tales of people falling in and out of love and getting burnt. Its been told countless times before, but Lekman's songcraft and beautiful voice make them stand out from the rest.

40. Mirrorring-Silent from Above (buy)

An ambient existential ballad from Mirrorring, a combination where a folk musician and a purveyor of drone music collide. Haunting and dark. Perfect for this time of year.

39. Rune Lindbaek-Wonder (buy)

Ace nordic balearica romantic pop. it was given some proper remix treatment but original wins hands down. This featured promintently on Pavel Plastikk's ' Sea Line' mix. Probably my favourite mix of the year.

38. Colorama-Hapus (buy)

Aficionado Records continue their impressive run with Colorama's Hapus (Happy in Welsh) which reminds me of the best of downtempo 'chillout' music from the late 90s, such as Air, Telepopmusik etc. It pleases me the boys of Afficiondo have finally started a label. I used to go their nights, in all manner of different city centre locations probably near a decade ago. Now growing old gracefully as well as disgracefully.

37. The Walkmen-Heaven (buy)

A stellar return in 2012 with The Walkmen. The title track is a tale of new responsibilities and commitments with a fondness to all that has been before, much like the rest of the album. Positive energy abound. They just get better.

36. Loops of Your Heart-End (buy)

With the internet providing a refuge for the majority and access to the world in the shape of shiny tiny screen, its seems only through music is there the capacity to truly be disconnected from it all, at one with your empty but beautiful surroundings. Like it's the end of everything. This is a mindset I adopt naturally whilst listening to this beautiful piece of music from Loops of Your Heart.

35. Lower Dens-Brains (buy)

Hectic chugging guitar music (with added synths and ambience) that takes the listener all over the shop over its intense 5 minutes or so. The album deserves to be listen to its entirety as it fits neatly together at the same time feeding different emotions throughout, pefectly embodied on 'Brains'.

34. Juju & Jordash-Track David Would Play (buy)

David=David Moufang=Move D. Juju & Jordash's huge 3 LP release has enough variation to satisfy many, but there's certain tracks that get me every time. 'David' builds up with warming synths to create an ambience, a deepness that Move D really captured several years ago. Not sure if it would fit into his recent sets of all sorts (disco, bass, early 90s house.), but he is man a of many talents so I wouldnt bet against it.

33. 1991-Fabric of Space (buy)

One for the nerds as Swedish mystery man Axel Backman delivers us arresting electronica for a new age. Sounds like what would be in my head during a dream-like apocalyptic state. Experimental excellence, I've been converted; sod house music.

32. Dusky-Henry 85 (buy)

There's plently of young upstarts (or bastards as I like to call them) about the UK garage/house/bass scene at the moment. Whilst it's not all my taste, I have taken to many of Dusky's tracks, most notably 'Henry 85', probably because it's less about peak time, but more about the build up and viewing it all happening in front of you whilst the kids peak far too bloody soon.

31. Portico Quartet-Steepless (buy)

Album of the year contender. This track tightens around the swirling voice of Swedish vocalist Cornelia before stabbing clicks send its off to sound like a Kieran Hebden vehicle. Which is no bad thing.

Pedro the Lion-Let Down

2012-11-21T23:47:00.000+00:00

Pedro the Lion/David Bazan remains a favourite of mine, even more than ever before as the years roll by. Fortunately for me, and fellow fans in the UK, Bazan returns for a short visit early next year to perform mainly 'Pedro' songs, a name he retired back in 2006. It is to celebrate the ten year anniversary of his best selling album 'Control' and the rerelease of his previous albums on vinyl. Get Tickets here.

During his first European Tour back in 2003, like a giddy child I quickly snapped up tickets to see him play in Nottingham at the Rescue Rooms, long before a last minute show was announced in Manchester, in a long-defunct venue called Granby Row (opposite the hole that is 5th Avenue). Myself and a friend of mine, in the pub across the road waiting for the show to begin spotted him sat outside and quickly went and chewed his ear off about religion, bullshit and Radiohead amongst other things. Never afraid to take on a popular cover, I remember him finishing on the night with a blinding version of Radiohead's 'Let Down', which later featured on his Tour '04 EP which you can check out below.

Pedro the Lion-Let Down (buy)

Crooked Fingers-There's a Blue Light

2012-11-20T22:30:00.003+00:00

Eric Bachmann is visiting our shores as we speak and it's high time I finally got to see him play live. He's played in Bristol already (where I will soon be located) and is playing a show at The Castle in Manchester early next month. Never been to a gig there but did see some local MCs spouting out all kinds of shit years ago whilst it was still a proper old man boozer, before it got bought by some guy out of Corrie. On each Crooked' album, theres always one or maybe two terribly sad songs; which through Bachmann's gravely voice makes me remember that this kind of music will always have that personal quality to me, something resonant that makes me think that a 4/4 beat could never achieve.

Crooked Fingers-There's a Blue Light (buy)

Guided by Voices-Learning to Hunt

2012-11-19T22:11:00.003+00:00

Many moons ago (it might be about ten years ago), I won tickets to see Guided by Voices from the new 'Metro' newspaper at the Manchester Roadhouse. I'm pretty sure it was their farewell tour, anyway it was a very enjoyable show, even though I didn't really know lots of their material and got fairly drunk towards the end making my memory even hazier than it would be from such a long time ago. I always got a bit overawed by their back catalogue in my teens as Robert Pollard seemed to release an album every 5 minutes. They have some great songs though, such as this, the heartfelt 'Learning to Hunt' from 1997's Mag Earwhig!

Guided by Voices-Learning to Hunt (buy)

Rachel Sweet-It's So Different Here

2012-11-14T19:13:00.000+00:00

Sweet and laid back vibe from the late 1970s, perfect for a grisly evening in East Manchester. If you fancy a more refined version, pick up Lexx's edit from a couple of years ago, very slick.

Rachel Sweet-It's So Different Here (buy)

Sandro Perri-Double Suicide

2012-11-12T22:32:00.001+00:00

Walkmusic introduced me to this delightful but slightly morbid tale via his Goodhood Store mix from a few months back. As it turns out I had heard Sandro Perri before unbeknown to me when he colloborated with fellow Canadian folk group Woodpigeon. This is a track off his first full length, some of which had the remix treatment earlier this year from Slow Hands & Tom Croose.

Sandro Perri-Double Suicide (buy)