Wax Trax! opens up pre-orders for 'Industrial Accident' film + soundtrack

Last year the highly anticipated Wax Trax! documentary Industrial Accident screened at a handful of film festivals after its premiere in Chicago. The film chronicles the legendary independent record store launched by Jim Nash and Dannie Flesher which later morphed into the influential record label that was home to acts such as Ministry, Front 242, Revolting Cocks, Pailhead, Lead Into Gold, Die Warzau, Front Line Assembly, My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult and so many more. The film includes commentary/appearances from Al Jourgensen, Paul Barker, Chris Connelly, Bill Leeb, Ian MacKaye, Trent Reznor, Chris Carter, Cosey Fanni Tutti, Jello Biafra, Steve Albini, and more.

Industrial Accident will finally be released on Blu Ray and DVD on April 16th. That same day the companion soundtrack which features classic and previously unreleased material from Ministry, KMFDM, Chris Connelly, Front 242, Laibach, Pankow, Mussolini Headkick and more will also be released. Both the film and soundtrack are available to pre-order now on a variety of formats.

An all-encompassing Cash Grab Edition bundle is available to fans in the U.S. -- the limited edition bundle includes the film, soundtrack, 40 page book with previously unpublished photos, cassette of vintage answering machine messages, an exclusive secret 7" of previously unreleased material, and so much more. The Cash Grab Edition is limited to 1000 copies and is available while supplies last.

View the tracklisting for the Industrial Accident soundtrack below and pre-order here.



Industrial Accident - Soundtrack

A1: My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult --  A Daisy Chain 4 Satan (Acid and Flowers Mix)
A2: Revolting Cocks -- Animal Nation
A3: The Young Gods -- Envoyé
A4: Pankow -- Me and My Ding-Dong
A5: Ministry -- Tonight We Murder (Original Version)

B1: KMFDM -- Vogue (Apart Version)
B2: FRONT 242 -- Headhunter (Live NYC)
B3: Mussolini Headkick -- Your God is Dead
B4: Laibach -- Leben-Tod
B5: Chris Connelly -- Shipwreck

Published January 31st, 2019

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The Fall's 'Bend Sinister' reissue coming in March

The Fall's ninth studio album Bend Sinister will be reissued on March 15th. The record was originally released in 1986 and reissued again with additional material the next year under the name Bend Sinister / The Domesday Pay-Off Triad plus. This brand new 2019 reissue, titled Bend Sinister / The Domesday Pay-Off plus, was remastered from original analog tapes and includes much of the material from the 1987 reissue, but not all, so view the tracklistings below carefully. Additionally the CD format of the release contains material from The Fall's June 28th, 1986 Peel Session plus six previously unreleased songs.

Bend Sinister / The Domesday Pay-Off plus will be released as a double LP and double CD on March 15th. Pre-order both editions here and view the tracklistings below.



Bend Sinister / The Domesday Pay-Off plus - 2LP edition

A1. R.O.D.
A2. Dktr. Faustus
A3. Shoulder Pads 1#
A4. Mr. Pharmacist
A5. Gross Chapel – British Grenadiers

B1. U.S. 80’s – 90’s
B2. Terry Waite Sez
B3. Bournemouth Runner
B4. Riddler!
B5. Shoulder Pads 2#

C1. Living Too Late (From the Living Too Late single)
C2. Hot Aftershave Bop (From the Living Too Late single)
C3. Lucifer Over Lancashire (From the Mr.Pharmacist single)
C4. Auto Tech Pilot (From the Mr.Pharmacist single)

D1. Hey! Luciani (from the Hey! Luciani single)
D2. Entitled (from the Hey! Luciani single)
D3. Shoulder Pads #1b (from the Hey! Luciani single)
D4. Living Too Long (From the Living Too Late single)

Bend Sinister / The Domesday Pay-Off plus - 2CD edition:

01. R.O.D.
02. Dktr. Faustus
03. Shoulder Pads 1#
04. Mr. Pharmacist
05. Gross Chapel – British Grenadiers
06. U.S. 80’s – 90’s
07. Terry Waite Sez
08. Bournemouth Runner
09. Riddler!
10. Shoulder Pads 2#

Disc 2

01. Living Too Late (from Living Too Late single)
02. Hot Aftershave Bop (from Living Too Late single)
03. Lucifer Over Lancashire (from Mr.Pharmacist single)
04. Auto Tech Pilot (from Mr.Pharmacist single)
05. Hey! Luciani (from Hey! Luciani single)
06. Entitled (from Hey! Luciani single)
07. Shoulder Pads #1b (from Hey! Luciani single)
08. Living Too Long (from Living Too Late single)
09. R. O. D (Peel Session, June 29 1986)
10. Gross Chapel – British Grenadiers (Peel Session, June 29 1986)
11. U. S. 80s – 90s (Peel Session, June 29 1986)
12. Hot Aftershave Bop (Peel Session, June 29 1986)
13. Luciani (Original version, previously unreleased)
14. DKTR. Faustus (Rough mix, previously unreleased)
15. Terry Waite Sez (Yellow 2 Mix, previously unreleased)
16. Lucifer Over Lancashire (Abbey Road Take 2, previously unreleased)
17. Entitled (Abbey Road Take 2, previously unreleased)
18. Town And Country Hobgoblins (Live, from the Bend Sinister cassette release)

Published January 31st, 2019

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Ranking Roger reveals cancer diagnosis

The Beat featuring Ranking Roger returned this month with a new 10 track album titled Public Confidential. Prior to the record release, Ranking Roger revealed some heavy news -- after suffering a mini-stroke last August he was also diagnosed with brain cancer and lung cancer. The legend says he underwent surgery last year to remove a brain tumor (one of two brain tumors), which required him to rest for six months. He also began a two year course of immunotherapy to treat his cancer. He remains very positive about his diagnosis and treatment and is looking forward to returning to the stage as soon as he's able.

View the video of Ranking Roger discussing his medical issues below. The video is very powerful -- though he delivers heartbreaking news, he is completely uplifting and optimistic about the whole situation and expresses gratitude for being an entertainer for years. Class act, as always.









Published January 31st, 2019

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Nitzer Ebb announce North American tour; play Detroit

Last fall Nitzer Ebb announced a handful of European festivals appearances in 2019 featuring all four original members (Bon Harris, Douglas McCarthy, David Gooday and Simon Granger). Today they've upped their game even more with the announcement of a two-leg North American tour. The first leg kicks off in May, then they'll head back again in September with Douglas McCarthy's project Fixmer/McCarthy opening up the tour.

Don't miss the legendary Nitzer Ebb at St. Andrew's Hall in Detroit on September 21st! Tickets for the tour are available here.

Nitzer Ebb reissued their back catalog in North America last year as a career-spanning vinyl boxset, and later with individual expanded CD editions. If you missed out on any of that, head here for details or here to order.

Meanwhile Mute recently announced a reissue campaign for fans outside North America - they'll begin with the reissue of Body Of Work on March 8th. More details on that are posted here.



Nitzer Ebb -- North American tour

May 09 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
May 10 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Elsewhere
May 11 -- Montreal, QC @ Societe des Arts Technologiques
May 12 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of the Living Arts
May 14 -- Toronto, ON @ Danforth Music Hall
May 15 -- Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
May 17 -- Denver, CO @ The Oriental Theater
May 20 -- Tampa Bay, FL @ The Orpheum
May 21 -- Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West
May 24 -- Miami, FL @ The Ground at Space
May 25 -- Houston, TX @ Numbers
May 26 -- Dallas, TX @ Trees

Second leg:

Sep 19 -- Austin, TX @ The Mohawk
Sep 20 -- Chicago, IL @ Metro
Sep 21 -- Detroit, MI @ St. Andrew's Hall
Sep 23 -- Vancouver, BC @ VENUE
Sep 25 -- Seattle, WA @ Neumos
Sep 26 -- Portland, OR @ Wonder Ballroom
Sep 27 -- San Francisco, CA @ Slim's
Oct 05 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Regent Theater

Published January 31st, 2019

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New Order's 'Technique' turns 30 years old

New Order's classic album Technique was released 30 years ago today! The Ibiza acid house infused album is a majestic recording and one of the crown jewels in New Order's superb catalog. The album is complemented with Peter Saville's brilliant and always-iconic cover artwork, which he described as his "first ironic piece" and featured a photo of a cherub statue he rented from an antique shop.

Technique spawned timeless dance club anthems "Fine Time," "Round & Round," and "Vanishing Point," plus includes "Dream Attack," one of the finest New Order songs of ALL time.

Spend some time with this timeless beauty today!





















Published January 30th, 2019

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Swervedriver + Failure tour North America; play Detroit

On the heels of the release of Swervedriver's new album Future Days, the legendary shoegaze powerhouse have announced a North American tour. The band will team up with Failure for the co-headline tour which kicks off next month and includes a stop in Detroit on April 3rd at the Majestic Theatre. The general onsale for tickets is this Friday, February 1st.

This will be Swervedriver's first Detroit concert since their 1998 tour in support of 99th Dream, and their first show in Michigan since 2015 (played Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids in 2015 in support of their last album I Wasn't Born To Lose You).

View the tour itinerary below.



Swervedriver/Failure co-headline tour

Mar 13 -- Dallas, TX @ House Of Blues
Mar 14 -- Houston, TX @ Warehouse
Mar 16 -- New Orleans, LA @ Republic
Mar 17 -- Nashville, TN @ Basement East
Mar 19 -- Orlando, FL @ Plaza Live
Mar 20 -- Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade
Mar 21 -- Raleigh, NC @ Lincoln Theatre
Mar 23 -- Pittsburgh, PA @ Spirit Hall
Mar 24 -- Philadelphia, PA @ TLA
Mar 25 -- Virginia Beach, VA @ Elevation 27
Mar 27 -- Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Mar 28 -- Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
Mar 29 -- Brooklyn, NY @ Warsaw
Apr 01 -- Toronto, ON @ PHX
Apr 02 -- Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall
Apr 03 -- Detroit, MI @ Majestic Theatre
Apr 05 -- Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues
Apr 07 -- Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave II
Apr 09 -- Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity
Apr 11 -- Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon
Apr 12 -- Lawrence, KS @ Liberty Hall
Apr 14 -- Denver, CO @ Oriental
Apr 15 -- Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge
Apr 17 -- Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom
Apr 19 -- Seattle, WA @ El Corazon
Apr 22 -- Sacramento, CA @ Ace Of Spades
Apr 23 -- San Francisco, CA @ Fillmore
Apr 24 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Fonda

Published January 30th, 2019

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Beth Gibbons releasing orchestral performance of 'Symphony No. 3' on LP/CD/DVD

Beth Gibbons launched a website earlier this month and today she announced the release of a new project. Gibbons has performed Henryk Górecki: Symphony No. 3 (Symphony of Sorrowful Songs) -- a three movement symphony -- backed by the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra. The audio and film recording took place at the National Opera Grand Theatre in Warsaw on November 29th 2014 (conducted by Krzysztof Penderecki) and will be released on March 29th.

Gibbons' preparation for the project was an intense experience:

"Following an invitation to collaborate at the concert, Beth Gibbons undertook an intense preparation process, including tackling the challenge of learning the original text (and the emotional weight it carries) without speaking the mother language. Typical to Beth though - the elusive yet iconic frontwoman of one of the most important British bands of the last two decades - the challenge was met and exceeded. Her performance alongside the maestro Penderecki has been hailed as triumphant, as you can see and hear on this release."

Henryk Górecki: Symphony No. 3 (Symphony of Sorrowful Songs) featuring Beth Gibbons will be released on LP and CD March 29th. Both formats include a bonus DVD featuring the concert film; the LP edition includes a limited edition photo print signed by Beth Gibbons, plus wav/mp3 download card.

View the trailer for the release below and pre-order here.



Published January 30th, 2019

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Massive Attack kick off 'Mezzanine XXI' tour with Elizabeth Frasier

Massive Attack kicked off their global Mezzanine XXI tour in Glasgow last night - as previously announced the tour features several guest vocalists including the brilliant Elizabeth Frasier. Last night Frasier belted out Mezzanine classics "Teardrop," and "Black Milk," plus a cover of Pete Seeger's "Where Have All The Flowers Gone."

Regarding covers, Massive Attack paid tribute to artists they sampled on Mezzanine -- not just Pete Seeger, but also The Cure, The Velvet Underground, and Ultravox -- by performing the actual songs they sampled. For instance The Cure's "10:15 Saturday Night" is sampled in "Man Next Door"; Massive Attack performed a cover of "10:15 Saturday Night" as part of their show.

Mezzanine XXI heads to North America in March. View the North American tour itinerary plus video captured at last night's show below:









Massive Attack - Mezzanine XXI

Mar 11 -- Montreal, QC @ Place Des Arts
Mar 12 -- Toronto, ON @ Sony Centre For Performing Arts
Mar 14 -- Boston, MA @ Boch Center
Mar 15 -- New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall
Mar 19 -- Philadelphia, PA @ Metropolitan Opera House
Mar 20 -- Washington, DC @ Anthem
Mar 22 -- Detroit, MI @ Masonic Temple
Mar 23 -- Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Mar 24 -- Saint Paul, MN @ Palace Theatre
Mar 28 -- San Francisco, CA @ Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
Mar 29 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Hollywood Palladium
Mar 30 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Hollywood Palladium
Apr 02 -- San Diego, CA @ Cal Coast Open Air Theatre

Published January 29th, 2019

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New Order unearth live video of "Ceremony" from 1981

Today New Order unearthed a treat for fans: previously unseen video of a live performance of "Ceremony" from 1981. The footage is taken from New Order's February 6th 1981 gig at Comanche Student Union in Manchester which took place two weeks after the release of "Ceremony" (the original "Ceremony" 7" single aka version 1, was released January 22nd 1981).

This treasured footage is just a taste of the forthcoming definitive edition of Movement. The boxset contains not only the unearthed footage of "Ceremony," but much much more from New Order's Movement-era archives.

Watch the legendary band power through "Ceremony" below.



Movement Definitive Edition is a four piece (1LP/2CD/1DVD) boxset and contains: a copy of Movement on vinyl featuring the original Peter Saville-designed sleeve, a copy of Movement on CD, a bonus CD with previously unreleased tracks including the Western Works and Cargo demos, rehearsal versions, and more; a DVD collecting live concert recordings from 1980/81 along with their Granada TV and BBC appearances, plus a hard back book.

The collection arrives April 5th and is available to pre-order here.

Published January 28th, 2019

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Free download: Julian Cope shares concert from The Teardrop Explodes

Julian Cope has unearthed a concert from The Teardrop Explodes and is giving it away as a free download. The concert was captured live October 6th, 1979 at Trinity Hall in Bristol. Highlights from the 12 song performance include the original version of "Treason" plus an extended version of "Poppies In The Field," which the band improvised after their P.A. equipment malfunctioned.

Cope says he's offering the recording as a free download for "a lunar month," so get on this now! Head here to download (no signup required).

Published January 28th, 2019

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Sparks mark 40th anniversary of 'No. 1 In Heaven' with expanded edition

Sparks announced the release of an expanded edition of No. 1 In Heaven to mark the seminal electro album's 40th anniversary. The 40th anniversary edition includes the newly remastered original album plus bonus content including single/alt versions plus the rare Peter Cook promo spots for the record.

The 40th anniversary of No. 1 In Heaven is available to pre-order on heavyweight pale-blue colored vinyl (2LP) and double CD. Both editions will be released on March 1st. Head here for more details and view the tracklisting below:

Sparks - No. 1 In Heaven

Tryouts For The Human Race
Academy Award Performance
La Dolce Vita
Beat The Clock
My Other Voice
The Number One Song In Heaven

Bonus content:

Tryouts For The Human Race (Alternative Long Version)
Peter Cook’s Promo Spot For No.1 In Heaven
The Number One Song In Heaven (Single Version)
Beat The Clock (Long Version)
Peter Cook’s Promo Spot For Tryouts For The Human Race
Tryouts For The Human Race (Single Version)



Published January 28th, 2019

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Beth Gibbons of Portishead launches website + social media

Beth Gibbons, the phenomenal vocalist of Portishead has launched a new website and Twitter account. So far she hasn't announced any news, but the website indicates something is "coming soon" and directs fans to sign up for her email list.

Check it out here.

pic.twitter.com/lJiqSZyxMN

— Beth Gibbons (@realbethgibbons) January 28, 2019

Published January 28th, 2019

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Classic Alternative - Episode #90: Off The Grid

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #90: Off The Grid.

This week's program includes music from The Replacements, Bauhaus, The Verve, XTC,  New Order,  The Stranglers,  Suede,  Fugazi,  A Certain Ratio,  KMFDM, and more.

Stream below or here and catch up with the archive of previous episodes here or here.


Music news from the week:

Gary Numan reissues I, Assassin + launching new LP campaign
Dr. Martens unveil Sex Pistols-inspired line of footwear
Michael Stipe appears on new single "Time Is The Killer"
A Certain Ratio announce 40th anniversary set ACR:BOX
The Church return to North America to celebrate Starfish
Coming in March: What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book
Pixies announce new LP + podcast
R.E.M. confirm 25th anniversary edition Monster planned
View Peter Hook's rare items from Signature Collection
Blue Monday 2019 + New Order on their "angriest" gig

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Dr Martens unveil Sex Pistols-inspired collection

Similar to last year's Joy Division/New Order collection, Dr Martens unveiled a line of Sex Pistols-inspired shoes and boots. The legendary footwear company chose to honor Sex Pistols because the band "perfectly captured and channeled the essence of the non-conformist Docs spirit." The bold collection features an array of Docs with Sex Pistols' lyrics including "I Wanna Be Me," "Boredom," and "Nowhere." The limited edition Docs arrive on February 1st. Pre-order info is expected shortly.

Published January 27th, 2018

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Gary Numan reissues 'I, Assassin' + launching new LP campaign

Gary Numan's fourth solo album I, Assassin will be reissued on March 1st. The album has been remastered from the original analog tapes and pressed on dark green vinyl. I, Assassin was originally released in 1982 and features the singles "Music For Chameleons" and "We Take Mystery (To Bed)," plus the intriguing dark and dramatic title track. Pre-order I, Assassin here.

Next month Numan begins work on the follow up to 2017's Savage. He's planning to once again let fans in on the creative process with updates, exclusive videos, and more, and he's currently combing through his archives looking for rare and special items (white label test pressings of rare singles, signed items, acetates, etc) to use as pledging incentives. This time around Numan won't be partnering with Pledge Music; instead he's using Townsend's Making Music and which has run his online store for years and he believes this will result in a much more satisfying experience for fans. Read Numan's full announcement here.

Published January 27th, 2019

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Michael Stipe featured on new Rain Phoenix song "Time Is The Killer"

Michael Stipe and Rain Phoenix have teamed up to record a song titled "Time Is The Killer." The track will be featured on Time Gone, a double A-side single which also includes two previously unreleased songs by River Phoenix's band Aleka's Attic.

Rain revealed that though she's been friends with Stipe for some time, she was anxious about asking Stipe to appear on "Time Is The Killer." She told Rolling Stone:

“It was so close to home for me, it was difficult, but I got up the courage and asked. Stipe asked to hear the song,” she says. “He loved it. He said yes. I am still in shock. His voice is magic.”

Time Gone will be released as a limited edition 10" single (limited to 500 copies) and will be released on February 14th. View the tracklisting below and pre-order here.

1. Michael Stipe/Rain Phoenix "Time is the Killer"
2. Aleka's Attic "Where I'd Gone"
3. Aleka's Attic "Scales & Fishnails"

Published January 24th, 2019

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A Certain Ratio 40th anniversary boxset 'ACR: BOX'

A Certain Ratio turn 40 this year and will mark the milestone with a career spanning boxset. ACR:BOX collects material from 1979 - 2019 -- well known singles/classics along with 20 previously unreleased tracks. The set will be released on a variety of formats: limited edition 7 LP colored vinyl set (only 1000 copies available), 4CD set, and digital download. All formats will be released on May 3rd. Pre-order here.

Along with the ACR:BOX announcement A Certain Ratio premiered one of the previously unreleased tracks; the song "W.S.L.U." is a brand new acoustic version of "Won't Stop Loving You," and is available to stream below.

A Certain Ratio released their debut single "All Night Party" in September of 1979. Not only was the single their debut single, it was the first single released by Factory Records (Factory had released a few compilations by that point, but "All Night Party" was the first single to be released by Factory).



Singles and B-sides

01. All Night Party
02. The Thin Boys
03. Blown Away
04. Son And Heir
05. Waterline
06. Funaezekea
07. Abracadubra
08. Sommadub
09. Guess Who? (12″ version)
10. Tumba Rumba
11. Knife Slits Water (12″ version)
12. Kether Hot Knives (Mix In Special)
13. I Need Someone Tonight
14. Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing
15. Life’s a Scream
16. There’s Only This
17. Si Fermir O Grido (Touch Cassette Version)
18. Brazilia 6.10
19. Sounds Like Something Dirty
20. The Runner (Greetings Four Version)
21. Inside (Greetings Four Version)
22. Bootsy (Greetings Four Version)
23. Fever 103 (Greetings Four Version)
24. Loosen Up Your Mind
25. The Planet
26. Turn Me on (7″ Edit)
27. 27 Forever (Jon Dasilva’s Testimonial Mix)
28. Shack up (Electronic Radio Edit)

Previously unreleased material

29. Houses In Motion (Demo Version 1)
30. Houses In Motion (Demo Version 2)
31. And Then Again (Another version)
32. Piu Lento (John Peel Session)
33. Nostromo A Go Go (Demo)
34. Force (Demo)
35. Backs to The Wall (Demo)
36. The Big E (Demo)
37. Every Pleasure (Demo)
38. Rivers Edge (Demo)
39. Stadium (Demo)
40. Thin Grey Line (Demo)
41. Repercussions (African Mix)
42. BTTW 90 (Demo)
43. Spirit Dance (Demo)
44. Bitter Pill (Never Released)
45. It’s Trippin When I’m Fine (Previously Unreleased)
46. Mello (JD 800 Perc Mix)
47. Tekno 4 an Answer (120bpm)
48. Samba 123 (Demo)
49. Some Day (ACR rework)
50. Happy Meal (Working Title)
51. Flight Won’t Stop (Unfinished Demo)
52. Fruit Song (Unfinished Demo)
53. Say What You Mean (Unfinished Demo)
54. W.S.L.U.

Published January 24th, 2019

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Mark E. Smith, R.I.P.

The legendary Mark E. Smith of The Fall died one year ago today and the world hasn't been quite the same without him! Keep MES in your thoughts and rock out to some music from The Fall in his honor!











Published January 24th, 2019

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The Church return to North America in celebration of 'Starfish' 30th anniversary

The Church announced a new leg of North American dates celebrating the 30th anniversary of Starfish. [The classic album was released in 1988 and a global 30th anniversary tour in celebration of the record took place in 2018, but due to demand the anniversary will extend into 2019.]

Similar to last year, the tour will feature the band's current iteration and NOT the classic Starfish lineup (thus no Marty Wilson Piper or Richard Ploog), and will see the band perform Starfish in full along with a selection of fan favorites. The North American leg kicks off with a Detroit area stop April 11th at the Magic Bag in Ferndale. Tickets for the tour go on sale this Friday, January 25th.

View the tour itinerary below:



The Church - 30th Anniversary Starfish tour

Apr 11 -- Ferndale, MI @ The Magic Bag
Apr 12 -- Buffalo, NY @ Town Ballroom
Apr 14 -- Sellersville, PA @ Sellersville Theatre
Apr 16 -- Jersey City, NJ @ White Eagle Hall
Apr 17 -- Annapolis, MD @ Rams Head On Stage
Apr 18 -- Alexandria, VA @ Birchmere
Apr 19 -- Carraboro, NC @ Cat's Cradle
Apr 20 -- Atlanta, GA @ Terminal West
Apr 22 -- West Palm Beach, FL @ Culture Room
Apr 23 -- Orlando, FL @ The Social
Apr 24 -- St. Petersberg, FL @ Palladium
Apr 26 -- Houston, TX @ The Heights
Apr 27 -- Austin, TX @ Austin City Limits Live
Apr 28 -- Dallas, TX @ The Kessler
May 01 -- Sante Fe, NM @ Mew Wolf-3
May 03 -- Los Angeles, CA @ The Regent Theater
May 04 -- Santa Monica, CA @ Presqu'ile Winery
May 06 -- Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom
May 07 -- Solana Beach, CA @ Belly Up
May 09 -- Pioneertown, CA @ Pappy & Harriet's
May 10 -- Santa Cruz, CA @ Rio Theater
May 12 -- Sonoma, CA @ Gundlach Bundschu Winery



Published January 23rd, 2019

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Coming in March: 'What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book'

An enchanting new book about XTC will be published in March by XTC Limelight. What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book was written by Mark Fisher in conjunction with the full support, participation, and commentary from XTC's core: Andy Partridge, Colin Moulding, Terry Chambers, Dave Gregory, and Barry Andrews. The comprehensive book also includes contributions from famous XTC admirers such as Peter Gabriel, Rick Buckler (The Jam), Jason Faulkner (Jellyfish), Chris Difford (Squeeze), Steve Conte (New York Dolls), and more.

Fisher also included his extensive review of TC&I's 2018 gig in Swindon, which saw Colin Moulding and Terry Chambers performing together onstage for the first time in 36 years.

The 228 page book arrives on March 4th and is available to pre-order now. Heads up: those who order before midnight on Sunday January 27th (UK time, so plan accordingly) will be included in the Venerable League of Neon Shufflers and have their name published in the book. Head here to pre-order What Do You Call That Noise? An XTC Discovery Book and view the trailer below.



FYI: Mark Fisher was the editor of 2017's brilliant The XTC Bumper Book Of Fun For Boys and Girls. The 256 page book which features contributions from XTC, reproductions of Limelight fanzines, and much more is available to order here.



Published January 23rd, 2019

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Pixies announce new LP + 'Past Is Prologue' podcast

Pixies announced they'll release the follow up to 2016's Head Carrier later this year. The still-untitled full length studio album was written in 2018 and recorded last December. Pixies are planning to release the new album in September.

Fans can follow the progress of the album with a 12 part Pixies podcast through Signal No 1 titled Past Is Prologue. The series covers historical aspects of the band along with a heavy focus on the creative and songwriting process of the new album. The podcast is hosted by music journalist Tony Fletcher and is available to stream on Spotify, Apple, and more.

Watch the trailer for Past Is Prologue below and head here for more details and/or to stream.



Published January 23rd, 2019

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R.E.M. confirm 25th anniversary edition of 'Monster' in the works

R.E.M. revealed that a 25th anniversary edition of Monster will be released in October. Details will be announced later in the year, but is expected to be similar to the band's previous anniversary collections - expanded with bonus material, demos, live material, etc. The 25th anniversary edition of Monster is still in the formative stages as you can see in the picture below which R.E.M. posted on Facebook.

Monster was released on September 27th 1994 and yielded the singles "Strange Currencies," "Bang And Blame," "Crush With Eyeliner," and more plus includes "Let Me In," which was written in honor of Kurt Cobain.



Published January 22nd, 2019

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Peter Hook Signature Collection catalog filled with Joy Division, New Order + Factory items

As previously reported Peter Hook is auctioning off Joy Division, New Order, Factory-related items, and more from his personal collection on March 2nd. Today Omega Auctions posted the full catalog of items online - it is truly a drool-worthy treasure trove of unique items that Joy Division and Factory Records fans would kill for!

Among the items: Joy Division's Ford transit van with Peter Hook's original driver's license, ticket stub from the legendary 1976 Sex Pistols' Free Trade Hall gig, reels of Martin Hannett's recording/rehearsal tapes including outtakes from Unknown Pleasures and Closer sessions; handwritten, signed lyrics to "Ceremony" and "Failures," an Ian Curtis nameplate (used as a prop in 24 Hour Party People), a ton of Factory Records white label test pressings, Warsaw studio master tape, cassette masters, tons of record sleeves, photos, clothing, CDs, and SO much more.

FYI: there's even some non-Joy Division/New Order/Factory items, including an IKON VHS video of The Smiths and The Birthday Party.

Dig into the online catalog here and read more details about the auction here.

The Peter Hook Signature Collection auction starts March 2nd at 1pm UK time. Viewing exhibitions for the auction kick off February 25th. Proceeds from the auction benefit the suicide prevention charity CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) as well as an epilepsy charity.

Published January 21st, 2019

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Blue Monday 2019 + New Order's "angriest" gig

Today is Blue Monday, the day "experts" deem to be the most depressing day of the year. Two different equations have been utilized by "experts" to determine the exact date of Blue Monday - debt, weather, stress, and travel all factor in - however most scientists consider the concept of Blue Monday to be questionable at best.

Blue Monday has only been a thing (such that it is) since 2005 and has nothing at all to do with New Order's iconic anthem, but what an excellent excuse* to bust out the vinyl/cassette/CD/whatever and enjoy this timeless classic.



Meanwhile, the BBC also posted a short clip of Stephen Morris and Gillian Gilbert discussing New Order's "angriest" gig - their live instudio Maida Vale performance from 1984. Morris reveals the band made it just in time for their performance and took out their anger/frustration out during the performance. Check out the interview clip and performances from the session below which featured "Sooner Than You Think," "Age Of Consent," "Blue Monday," "In A Lonely Place," and "Temptation."

Today is #BlueMonday, so here's the story of @NewOrder's angriest gig... 🎧 pic.twitter.com/uitqjvsmXv

— BBC Four (@BBCFOUR) January 21, 2019

Audio of the full session:



*Keep in mind you never EVER need an excuse to listen to New Order. Just saying.

Published January 21st, 2019

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Classic Alternative - Episode #89: Cascade

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #89: Cascade

This week's program includes music from The The, Psychic TV, Book Of Love, XTC, New Order, Roxy Music, Catherine Wheel, Cabaret Voltaire, The Fall, Buzzcocks, Cocteau Twins, and more.

Stream below or here and catch up with the archive of previous episodes here or here.


Music news from the week:

Depeche Mode, New Order, The Normal, Laibach + more cover John Cage
90s UK/indie collected on 4CD set Lost Alternatives
Piroshka debut new single "What's Next?"
Colin Moulding bows out of music
Bryan Ferry announces North American tour; plays Detroit

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The Normal, New Order, Depeche Mode, Laibach + more featured on 'STUMM433'

Mute recording artists including The Normal, Depeche Mode, New Order, Shadowparty, Erasure, Afghan Whigs, Laibach and more are featured on a unique new audio/visual boxset titled STUMM433. The 50+ artists featured on the set have all covered/interpreted one piece of music: 4'33" - the experimental mind-bending John Cage composition. Cage's unconventional composition challenged society to think outside the box -- the 1952 score instructs the performer to NOT play their instrument/s for the duration of the piece to allow ambient noise to take center stage, thereby forcing artists and listeners to experience silence and sound in a different way.

Each artist on STUMM433 has created a visual to accompany their performance of 4'33" - to illustrate, view the first taste of the collection -- Laibach's interpretation/performance of 4'33" -- below and head here for more info on the release.

STUMM433 will be released in May (date to be announced) and is part of Mute's ongoing 4.0 (1978 > Tomorrow) series that kicked off in 2018 and features special events and releases. Proceeds from STUMM433 benefit two charities - British Tinnitus Association and Music Minds Matter. These charities were chosen in honor of Inspiral Carpets' drummer Craig Gill. Gill suffered from depression and anxiety secondary to tinnitus and died by suicide in 2016.

“Wherever we are, what we hear is mostly noise” – John Cage



Published January 16th, 2019

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UK 90s indie/alternative 4CD set 'Lost Alternatives'

Steve Lamacq, the famed BBC radio presenter, has announced the release of a 4CD set he curated. Lost Alternatives is an impressive selection of UK indie/alternative 90s artists and boasts an extraordinary mix of well known and obscure tracks, plus many limited edition singles are also featured. This worthwhile collection leans way heavier on the obscure than the well-known, which is what makes this set stand out from previously released UK alternative compilations.

Lost Alternatives will be released in the UK on March 22nd and is available to pre-order now. Check out the tracklisting for the set via Demon Music below:

CD 1

01. Ride - Chelsea Girl
02. The Charlatans - Indian Rope
03. Northside - Shall We Take A Trip
04. Flowered Up - It's On
05. New Fast Automatic Daffodils - Big
06. Slowdive - Catch The Breeze
07. Curve - Ten Little Girls
08. Kitchens Of Distinction - Prize
09. Pale Saints - Throwing Back The Apple
10. Family Cat - Place With A Name
11. Senseless Things - Is It Too Late?
12. Mega City Four - Words That Say
13. Teenage Fanclub - Everything Flows
14. Silverfish - Big Bad Baby Pig Squeal
15. Daisy Chainsaw - Love Your Money
16. Voodoo Queens - Supermodel Superficial
17. Cornershop - Waterlogged

CD 2

01. S*M*A*S*H - Real Surreal
02. These Animal Men - Speeed King
03. Blessed Ethel - Rat
04. Suede - The Drowners
05. The Auteurs - Showgirl
06. Elastica - Stutter
07. Sleeper - Alice In Vain
08. Tiny Monroe - VHF 855V
09. Whiteout - Starrclub
10. China Drum - Wuthering Heights
11. Snuff - Caught In Session
12. 60Ft Dolls - Happy Shopper
13. Salad - Drink The Elixir
14. Drugstore - Solitary Party Groover
15. Ash - Uncle Pat
16. Northern Uproar - Rollercoaster
17. Perfume - Lover
18. Mansun - Take It Easy Chicken
19. Bluetones - Are You Blue Or Are You Blind?

CD 3

01. Bis - School Disco
02. Travis - All I Want To Do Is Rock
03. Catatonia - Sweet Catatonia
04. Marion - Violent Men
05. Audioweb - Sleeper
06. Rialto - Monday Morning 5:19
07. Tiger - Race
08. Strangelove - Greatest Show On Earth
09. Animals That Swim - Pink Carnations
10. Linoleum - Dissent
11. Scarfo - Alkaline
12. Kenickie - Come Out 2nite
13. Helen Love - Does Your Heart Go Boom
14. Jocasta - Go
15. Livingstone - Good Intentions
16. Geneva - No-One Speaks
17. Whipping Boy - When We Were Young
18. Earl Brutus - Life's Too Long

CD 4

01. Arab Strap - The First Big Weekend
02. Mogwai - New Paths To Helicon Part 1
03. Idlewind - Satan Polaroid
04. Symposium - The Answer To Why I Hate You
05. 3 Colours Red - This Is My Hollywood
06. The Delgados - Pull The Wires From The Wall
07. The Beta Band - Dry The Rain
08. The Hitchers - Strachan
09. Wubble U - Bit Like You
10. Ten Benson - The Claw
11. Clinic - I.P.C. Subeditors Dictate Our Youth
12. Cay - Better Than Myself
13. Cable - Freeze The Atlantic
14. Seafood - This Is Not An Exit
15. Llama Farmers - Paper Eyes
16. Ultrasound - Stay Young
17. Morgan - Miss Parker (The Dust Brothers Mix)

Published January 16th, 2019

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Piroshka debut new single "What's Next?"

Piroshka, the new superband featuring Miki Berenyi, KJ McKillop (Moose), Michael Conroy (Modern English), and Justin Welch (Elastica) release their debut album Brickbat on February 15th. The band debuted their first single, the lovely "Everlastingly Yours" back in November and this week they issued another fine track titled "What's Next?" which was mixed by Alan Moulder and is available to stream below.

Head here to pre-order Brickbat.





Published January 15th, 2019

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XTC-related news: Colin Moulding bows out of music; Andy Partridge teases new remaster

It appears that Colin Moulding has announced some sad news -- TC&I are over and he's putting music "on the back burner" for now.

In 2017 Colin Moulding and his ex-XTC bandmate Terry Chambers formed TC&I and released a four song EP titled Great Aspirations. Last year, in promotion of the EP the two legends played a handful of shows performing the EP along with classic Moulding-penned XTC songs. It now appears that the project has reached its conclusion. Moulding released a statement revealing that not only is TC&I done with, but Moulding is putting his music career aside, at least for the foreseeable future, to focus on his family.

Read Moulding's statement below which was posted on his behalf on the TC&I fan page last night:

"I'd just like to say that I am calling it a day with TC& I and have no plans to do anymore.

And music itself is on the back burner for now, as I wish to spend more time with my family.

I hope people are not too disappointed in me, and I'd just like to thank everyone for the support they have shown Terry and I in these last two years.

And to all who came to the gigs and gave us such a triumphant return — I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

All the best

Colin"

Meanwhile XTC's Andy Partridge continues to tease fans on social media regarding a new remaster.

Over the last few years expanded editions of several of XTC's albums have been reissued featuring new improved 5.1 surround sound audio remastered from the original tapes by Steve Wilson. To date, XTC have reissued Drums And Wires, Oranges And Lemons, Skylarking, and Black Sea. There hasn't been a specific order to the reissues - tapes are found and handed over to Wilson; Wilson makes the magic happen and the remasters get released. Partridge has said previously that some of the band's original tapes have been lost by their record label, thus certain beloved albums like English Settlement have not been given the remaster treatment and obviously won't be until the tapes are located.

No word on when Partridge will be announcing full details on the mystery remaster project though he did tell a fan on Twitter that the release will be out later this year. Note: technically he did not say it is an XTC remaster (it could be something from Partridge's solo catalog) though it has been heavily implied. In the meantime if you've missed out on any of the XTC reissues, check out the official site/store here.

Well, i'm back from Mr Wilsons and hearing the latest 5.1 mix had me smiling fit to bust. Tell you what it is later, you lucky lumps.
Now, what's all this about Colin bailing from TC&I and music?

— XTC (@xtcfans) January 13, 2019

When it's all baked. Later this year.

— XTC (@xtcfans) January 13, 2019

Published January 14th, 2019

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Bryan Ferry announces 'Avalon' North American tour; plays Detroit

Bryan Ferry has announced a North American tour. The summer theater tour will see the legend performing songs from Avalon along with other classics from Roxy Music and his solo catalog. The tour includes a Detroit stop at the Fox Theatre on August 3rd. The pre-sale for the tour kicks off tomorrow (Tuesday, January 15th) and runs through January 17th. The general onsale for the tour is Friday, January 18th at 10am.

Avalon, released in 1982, was Roxy Music's final studio album and features exquisite singles "More Than This," "Take A Chance On Me," and the divine title track.

Bryan Ferry and his Orchestra released a new record titled Bitter-Sweet last fall. The record was inspired by the television series Babylon Berlin, which is set in 1929 Berlin. For the album, Ferry reinterpreted songs from his catalog (solo and Roxy Music songs) giving them a distinct 1920s flavor.



Bryan Ferry - North American tour

Jul 30 -- Toronto, ON @ Sony Centre
Aug 01 -- Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
Aug 03 -- Detroit, MI @ Fox Theatre
Aug 05 -- Boston, MA @ Boston Opera House
Aug 07 -- Port Chester, NY @ Capitol Theater
Aug 09 -- New York, NY @ United Palace Theater
Aug 11 -- Philadelphia, PA @ The Met
Aug 13 -- Washington, DC @ The Anthem
Aug 15 -- Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle
Aug 17 -- Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
Aug 21 -- Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre
Aug 23 -- Austin, TX @ ACL Live at the Moody Theater
Aug 25 -- Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre
Aug 27 -- San Diego, CA Copley Symphony Hall
Aug 29 -- Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre
Aug 31 -- Oakland, CA @ Fox Theatre
Sep 03 -- Seattle, WA @ Moore Theatre
Sep 05 -- Vancouver, BC @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre

Published January 14th, 2019

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Classic Alternative - Episode #88: Veil

Presenting Classic Alternative - Episode #88: Veil

This week's program includes music from Talk Talk, Echo & The Bunnymen, The Jesus and Mary Chain, The Dukes Of Stratosphear, Depeche Mode, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Big Chief, The Soft Boys, The Chameleons, and more.

Stream below or here and catch up with the archive of previous episodes here or here.

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New Order play Miami Beach + honored with key to the city

New Order played a sold out show at the Fillmore in Miami Beach last night. Prior to doors opening the band revealed a special guest would be opening up the show -- it turned out to be the legendary producer/DJ Arthur Baker! New Order and Baker have collaborated over the years -- Baker co-wrote "Thieves Like Us" and "Confusion," plus he has remixed several New Order songs. Baker performed an hour-long plus set much to the delight of New Order fans, then New Order took the stage and ripped through set of classics (nice to see "Vanishing Point" getting some love)! View the setlist below.

Prior to the show New Order were presented the key to the city of Miami Beach by Vice Mayor Michael Gongora. Check out pictures of New Order (and the key) below along with a few pics of Arthur Baker in action.

Thank you to @MichaelGongora and City of Miami Beach for presenting New Order with the key to the city - what an honour! Another good reason to return! #NewOrderMiami pic.twitter.com/UZSvemgOQ7

— New Order (@neworder) January 13, 2019

Excited to officially welcome New Order to Miami Beach and looking forward to a great show! #NewOrder @neworder @MiamiBeachNews @FillmoreMB #NewOrderMiami pic.twitter.com/x8qiIvfc78

— Michael Gongora (@MichaelGongora) January 13, 2019

View this post on Instagram

#arthurbaker #dj set right in fucking front of me. I’m right on the stage at #neworder #fillmoremiamibeach @neworderofficial

A post shared by DJ Derek Arthur (@derek_arthur_warren) on Jan 12, 2019 at 5:04pm PST

@neworder @arthurhbaker the MAN Arthur Baker! #NewOrderMiami pic.twitter.com/ua2aaWE533

— Todd George (@ToddGeorge1970) January 13, 2019

New Order - January 12th, 2019 setlist

Singularity
Ceremony
Age Of Consent
Restless
Academic
Crystal
Your Silent Face
Tutti Frutti
Subculture
Bizarre Love Triangle
Vanishing Point
World (The Price Of Love)
Plastic
The Perfect Kiss
True Faith
Blue Monday
Temptation

Encore

Atmosphere
Decades
Love Will Tear Us Apart

Published January 13th, 2019

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