Geffen US Schallplatten & CDs

Review: The sixth album by American scene/screamo band AFI hears a timely 20th Anniversary reissue here. Hinting at a more gothic direction and an abandonment of their former footings in hardcore punk and horrorpunk, we hear Davey Havok and co. move through fast-paced punk and spitty vocals as ever, harking back to a much earlier time (2003) in which this genre sadly held more weight. Like a high school drama plunged into a nightmarish vampire apocalypse, the blend of sounds here are perfect for a late-night Twilight or Buffy binge - with sad piano interludes interspersed with grungey axe washouts and ruminations on hopelessness and despair.

Review: Chuck Berry's 'Run Rudolph Run' remains a holiday classic, bursting with infectious energy and timeless rock 'n' roll swagger. Originally released in 1958, this upbeat track blends Berry's signature guitar riffs with playful lyrics, capturing the spirit of Christmas in a way only rock 'n' roll can. The song's brisk pace and catchy melody make it a must on any festive playlist, and this 7" evergreen vinyl reissue brings its warm analog charm to life. Perfect for both collectors and casual listeners, it's a nostalgic piece that adds a rock-infused jolt to the holiday season. Classic, fun and undeniable, Run Rudolph Run is a joyful tradition.

Review: Long After Dark by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers is a standout album that often doesn't get the recognition it deserves. This nearly ballad-free record, released in 1982, is a cohesive, energetic breakup album. While none of its tracks are typically ranked among Petty's top ten classics, six of the ten songs are essential Petty numbers, filled with prime-era vocal performances and engaging musical arrangements. This new remastered versions comes complete with 12 rediscovered tracks, enhances the sound, bringing more depth to the instrumentation. It's essential listening for Tom Petty fans and highly recommended for lovers of heartland rock. Released on turquoise makes this package extra special. Tracks like 'One Story Town', 'You Got Lucky', 'Deliver Me', 'Change of Heart', 'We Stand a Chance' and 'Straight Into Darkness' stand out, showing the band's great musicianship and Petty's songwriting at its peak. Even the more understated songs like 'Finding Out' have a solid rock energy that excites.'The Same Old You' and 'Between Two Worlds' channel a Rolling Stones-like vibe. Overall, this album is still one of Tom Petty's best.

Review: The Sunday was a beloved late 80s/early 90s indie rock band that released three acclaimed albums in both the European and US markets. Their debut, Reading, Writing and Arithmetic, was released in 1990 and became a chart success worldwide, riding on the success of their 1989 breakthrough hit 'Here's Where The Story Ends'. Lead singer Harriet Wheeler captivated audiences with her distinctive voice while the band delivered captivating hooks and grooves to complement her vocals, clocking in somewhere between the jangle of The Smiths and the darker hues of The Cure and the sonic sparkle of Cocteau Twins. After three albums with Rough Trade, Parlophone, and Geffen Records, they disappeared from the scene following 1997's Static & Silence. Now, a limited edition 180g black vinyl of Reading, Writing & Arithmetic is available having been remastered from the original analogue tapes.

Review: Justin Perkins at Mystery Room Mastering is having a winning 2025 so far, with his studio credited with mastering Billy Nomates' new album and now this: the remaster of the 1997 classic by English dream pop hitmakers The Sundays. Not only do we get to hear the tracks with a sweeter finish sonically, but it's a welcome excuse to revisit their material. 'Summertime' and 'Cry' are two of the most underrated singles of the 90s and the likes of 'Monochrome and 'When I'm Thinking Of You' are fan favourites well worth repeat rinses. Given how well their sound has stood the test of time, The Sundays' influence looks set to permeate for decades to come.