EMI Schallplatten & CDs

Review: Queen's Rock Montreal album, compiled from two electrifying live performances in Montreal during 1981, stands as one of their pinnacle live releases. Originally filmed for theater projection, the subsequent DVD's audio was said to feel lacking at home, but after Queen regained publishing rights they remastered both audio and visuals, resulting in this exceptional vinyl pressing. The concert showcases Queen at their peak, fueled by Freddie Mercury's fervor. 'We Will Rock You' kicks off with thunderous energy, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through Queen's hits. From the rockier rendition of 'Play the Game' to the anthemic 'Somebody to Love,' each track pulsates with live vigor. Freddie's charismatic banter adds flair, while songs like 'Save Me' and 'Sheer Heart Attack' shine with emotional depth and raw energy. The show's climax with 'We Are the Champions' leaves audiences exhilarated, capping off a near-flawless performance.

Review: Soft Cell's seminal debut album Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret tells a vivid tale of early 80s Britain as a seedy night world of peep shows, prostitutes and sex dwarves. It's such wonderful poetry that such a subversive act were also able to score the biggest selling single of the year and throw so many unsuspecting listeners into their lascivious world and now this landmark slice of synth pop is getting a heavyweight reissue treatment with a monster six-CD set which goes in deep on extended versions, lost demos, live renditions and instrumentals. If you want an exhaustive document of this eternal classic, then look no further.

Review: Sub Focus has as far back as we can remember always been a 'big name' in drum & bass, but it's only now that the London-based music producer cements it as such with a slice of contextualising nostalgia. Evolve is his new LP, charting a new feel for 1990s influences and various musical homages to the acts and songs that contributed to his sense of musical evolution and maturity as a musician. Nods to the Chemical Brothers and early jungle and hardcore are conveyed through contemporary collabs with the likes of CamelPhat, Gene Farris and LOWES.

Review: American country star Morgan Wallen returns with his fourth full-length project: a sprawling, near two-hour showcase of pop, rock and acoustic balladry. While his sound remains rooted in Nashville tradition, the Tennessee-born singer taps into broader palettes hereidrawing on slow-burn storytelling ('Just in Case'), radio-friendly duets (like his Tate McRae collab), and swaggering pop-rock hybrids that veer into crossover territory ('I Ain't Comin' Back', with Post Malone). Wallen's lyrical themes stick to familiar territoryiheartache, small-town nights, self-reflectionibut the production, led by longtime collaborators Joey Moi and Charlie Handsome, often elevates the material. Despite its length, the album keeps a steady rhythm, with highlights like 'Superman' offering a rare moment of emotional clarity. For fans, it's an unfiltered look at a man embracing vulnerability while doubling down on chart power. For everyone else, it's proof of Wallen's status as one of the most commercially magnetic voices in contemporary countryiand one who continues to expand his reach.