Back catalogue: Pop

Review: Singer and actress SSW Mayu is mostly known for her roles in musicals and TV dramas, and delivers a fresh take on classic songs from the past. Her latest release is a 7" single on Jet Set Japan and comes from a compilation album by Cafe Music. It does a fine job of showcasing her versatile talent and her soulful voice and refined interpretation really shine as Mayu brings new life to timeless tracks while blending a hint of nostalgia with her unique signature style. This release highlights her ability to cross genres and create a soothing yet captivating musical experience, making it a standout addition to the Cafe Music compilation.

Review: A unique edition of an iconic track. Originally released in 1984, Careless Whisper has subsequently solidified its place as a pop masterpiece, topping charts worldwide and earning multiple platinum certifications. This limited-edition EP is cut at 45rpm half-speed for extra clarity and features a remastered version of the original hit, an extended mix enhancing its sultry allure and an intriguing live performance of it from Madison Square Garden, adding a new dimension to the track's timeless appeal. The EP also includes an instrumental version, allowing fans to appreciate the lush production and unforgettable saxophone solo in its purest form.

Review: George Michael's timeless Careless Whisper is an iconic pop record which this year marks its 40th anniversary. It was released in 1984 and soon topped charts in 25 countries while also achieving multiple Platinum certifications globally. To celebrate the milestone, a limited edition Careless Whisper EP has been compiled and features all versions of the song in one exclusive release. This special 12" includes instrumental and extended mixes along with a previously unreleased live version recorded at Madison Square Garden, New York. It is an EP that reminds us of the late great Michael's skills and reworks the single in club ready format for DJs.

Review: Live & Sexy: The Biggest Hits in Concert is a new collection of tunes from one of Thebes to ever do it. It comes on CD but why would you bother with that when you can also cop this gatefold pink vinyl version on 2 x 12"? It features nearly 80 minutes of live renditions of Madge's most iconic hits, all of which were in this form originally recorded for live radio broadcasts. Along the way, the record captures the essence of her career at key moments and so is a fine celebration of her enduring legacy in musical history.

Review: Madonna's undeniable classic Like A Prayer receives a stunning reissue on silver vinyl here as the album's impact continues to endure in the pop world. Originally released in 1989 it featured a bold fusion of pop, gospel, and funk that once again showed Madonna's innovation in the studio and love of provocative themes. Hits like 'Like A Prayer,' 'Express Yourself,' and 'Cherish' are presented with renewed clarity on this beautifully remastered version which means the powerful emotional range and social commentary sound better than ever, while also coming with a touch of visual elegance

Review: Miami-born and raised, synth-pop duo Magdalena Bay relocated to Los Angeles and have been blazing a trail with their self-produced music towards the top of the pop world. To celebrate the beguiling aura of their second album, released in August 2024, there's a limited repress of it in a stunning yet chaotic and artsy clear blue. Stacked with bangers, including the ethereal disco single 'Image' and the cosmic electropop epic 'Death & Romance' - which recalls Destiny's Child as much as it does Jean Michel Jarre - Magdalena Bay are clearly brimming with ideas. That they then know how to package these ideas with a cohesive visual aesthetic helps them hugely on their way and at the pace they're going creatively, there's seemingly a glorious road ahead.

Review: LA-based indie-pop duo Magdalena Bay defy the fleeting nature of online trends with their debut LP, an inviting blend of sonic exploration and visual artistry. Entirely self-produced, the music is a testament to Mica Tenenbaum and Matt Lewin's creative vision, a mesmerising journey through abstract theories of time and the "what ifs" of human existence. Tracks like 'The End' and 'The Beginning' bookend the album with a sense of cyclical wonder, while 'Mercurial World' and 'Hysterical Us' delve into the complexities of identity and perception. With its dreamy melodies, infectious hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics, 'Mercurial World' solidifies Magdalena Bay's status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of indie pop.

Review: Dainty but global pop star Bruno Mars is a veteran of many chart hits and loveable party singles but can also pen a solid album. This one was his multi-platinum sophomore and it came laden with jams like 'When I Was Your Man' and 'Locked Out of Heaven' along with fan favourites such as 'Treasure' and 'Gorilla.' They all showcasing Mars' versatility and across the record, he blends r&b, pop, reggae, rock, disco, funk and soul. The dynamic production lineup includes talents such as Mark Ronson, Jeff Bhasker, Emile Haynie, Diplo, Supa Dups and The Smeezingtons who all add their own touch to Mars' fine pop artistry and ability to seamlessly explore a wide range of styles to make for a fun collection of high-energy music.

Review: Here comes a reissue of Bruno Mars's much-loved debut album from 2010 on limited neon yellow vinyl. Doo-Wops & Hooligans set the signature sound for this now global pop favourite with its vibrant blend of pop, r&b, reggae and soul all of which helped to launch him into global stardom. Featuring iconic hits like 'Just the Way You Are,' 'Grenade' and the laid-back anthem 'The Lazy Song' the album is a great testament to Mars' knack for crafting catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics with production by The Smeezingtons that balances upbeat tracks with emotional ballads, infectious energy, smooth vocals and timeless pop goodness, which is why it won so many awards.

Review: Following her successful Trilogy tour, which spanned the US, UK, and Europe, Melanie Martinez has reissued her 2019 K-12 album on some mad pink and milky clear vinyl. It was a gold-selling record that also charted in the Top 10 and includes hits like 'Teacher's Pet' and 'High School Sweethearts'. Both are irresistible pop ditties that sit amongst many other seriously catchy and well polished sounds such as 'Wheels On The Bus and 'Show & Tell'. A wonderfully feel good record.

Review: Portablist Lounge have put together this special 7" scratchsafe™ battle record which also includes a sticker. The record has a narrow head-gauged and has been deep cut which means it won't skip no matter how hard you work it, and it' features standard scratch samples with AI generated voices from well-known celebrities including Alex Jones, Bart Simpson, Kermit the Frog, Stan Marsh, Angry Male, Adam Sandler, Alan Partridge, Cleveland Brown, Jerry Springer, Rick Sanchez, Snoop Dogg, Donald Trump, Tucker Carlson, Eric Cartman, Stewie Griffin, Greta Thumburg, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Joe Rogan, Limmy, Peter Griffin, Peter Kay and Simon Cowell.

Review: Get ready to revisit the magic of Miki Matsubara's seventh album, Cool Cut, which is now reissued for the first time on stunning coloured vinyl. Originally released on May 21, 1984, this edgy masterpiece captures the vibrant sound of an era and features the unparalleled production of charismatic guitarist Katsutoshi Morizono who is known for his groundbreaking work with Yonin Bayashi and Prism. Morizono's influence shines through in every note and this reissue brings back the cool, electrifying band sound that made the record a standout.

Review: Megan Thee Stallion's third studio album, 'Megan', marks her debut as an independent artist and reveals her personal truths with unflinching candor. The project opens powerfully with the chart-topping single 'Hiss', setting a bold tone. As the album unfolds, tracks like 'Rattle' and 'Figueroa' feature sharp disses and familiar themes.Megan shines in pieces like 'B.A.S.' and 'Otaku Hot Girl', where she demonstrates her lyrical strength and clever references. The album shifts towards introspection with 'Moody Girl' and 'Cobra', where she grapples with darker emotions, ultimately showcasing her vulnerability. Although some songs feel like straightforward rap without innovation, the overall structure is cohesive, with each track building on the last. While the polished album artwork contrasts with the rawness of the content, Megan is a strong effort. It is a worthwhile listen that captures Megan's multifaceted identity as an artist.

Review: Record breaking, chart topping, Juno-winning and Grammy-nominated pop singer-songwriter and top Canadian talent Shawn Mendes is back with a new self titled album, which is his fifth overall. When artists opt for the self-titled LP it often reflects a more honest and personal approach and that is the case here as Shawn, which was written and recorded over the past two years, is him at his most intimate. It was recorded across many sessions and locations which also helps add different perspectives and influences and was done with a small group of collaborators including Scott Harris, Mike Sabath, Eddie Benjamin, Nate Mercereau, Ethan Gruska, Amy Allen and Chris Thile.

Review: Listen Without Prejudice is George Michael's introspective masterpiece. It has been newly remastered by Sony for this release and plots his evolution as a musician and also a lyricist. Released in 1990, the album delves into his signature themes of love, identity, and societal issues with raw honesty and vulnerability. Michael's velvety vocals glide effortlessly over soulful melodies and intricate arrangements and tracks like 'Freedom! '90' and 'Praying for Time' still cut through as they did almost 35 years ago. The album as a whole serves as a poignant reminder to approach life and relationships with an open mind and heart. RIP to a real one.

Review: Michelle's first project, 2018's Heatwave, celebrated the vibrant energy of New York City where all six band members grew up. Following its success and their 2022 album, After Dinner We Talk Dreams, the band expanded their horizons and headed out on tour across the US and Europe with artists like Gus Dapperton, Arlo Parks and Mitski. For their new album, Songs About You Specifically, Michelle retreated to a house in Ojai, California. Immersed in the serene desert surroundings, they found a new sense of solitude and intimacy and this shift is reflected in their music, which now embraces starry shoegaze, funk and 80s synth pop.

Review: Italian pop queen Mina proves her enduring brilliance with her 76th - yes, 76th - studio album. Now 84, Mina remains a commanding force in European pop, her octave-spanning voice undimmed by time. The album has been produced by her son Massimiliano Pani and centres on love's complexities, weaving lush textures and timeless arrangements. Tracks like 'Non smetto di aspettarti' showcase her dramatic flair, while 'Senza farmi male' introduces a modern twist with electronic rock. Mina's voice, at times powerful and at others tinged with age, captures the passage of time, reminding listeners of her unmatched legacy.

Review: This double-platinum album marks a milestone in the career of one of hip-hop's most influential figures, showcasing a bold blend of rap, pop and r&b. With its varied production styles and genre-defying sound, it captures Nicki Minaj at her most versatile and confident. From the introspective, emotionally charged 'Pills N Potions' to the playful, brash energy of 'Anaconda', the album explores a wide range of themes, from love and heartbreak to empowerment and self-expression. Nicki Minaj's lyrical prowess is on full display, with sharp, memorable verses that have become iconic in their own right. The production is lush and polished, featuring both hard-hitting beats and smooth, melodic hooks. Throughout, there's a sense of both vulnerability and strength, making it a deeply personal yet universally relatable record. The album's balance of catchy pop hooks and hard-hitting rap ensures its place as a standout in Minaj's discography, cementing her as a force in contemporary music. Fans are sure to appreciate the album's long-awaited vinyl release - many say this is her best.

Review: Kylie Minogue returns with Tension II, her seventeenth studio album. This follow-up to 2023's Tension delves deeper into electronic and dance music influences, showcasing Minogue's mastery of infectious, high-energy tracks. 'Lights Camera Action', is a vibrant club anthem driven by pulsating beats and raving synths, setting the tone for a night of dance floor escapism. 'Edge of Saturday Night', co-produced with The Blessed Madonna, blends pop and house influences, creating a shimmering, feel-good track perfect for the weekend. Collaborations like 'My Oh My' with Bebe Rexha and Tove Lo lean into playful, flirtatious energy, while 'Midnight Ride' with Orville Peck and Diplo fuses country elements with festival-ready disco. The album culminates with 'Dance Alone', a pop-disco anthem featuring Sia, further capturing Minogue's signature style. Overall, Tension II is a dynamic, electronic-driven journey, filled with club-ready hits that solidify Minogue's timeless appeal on the dance floor.

Review: ***B-STOCK: Sleeve damaged but otherwise in excellent condition***


Body Language remains one of Kylie Minogue's finest records, in particular finding some truly inspirational crossover between the Aussie pop queen's immaculate voice and a more sultry kind of club music. When an album opens up with a track as perfect as 'Slow', you know you're in for a treat. There are of course many different sides to the record, and there's space for different stylistic approaches besides the floor fillers, but it's the likes of 'I Feel For You' with its cut-up disco loops that give Minogue the backing she deserves to bring the club to life. This edition of the album comes pressed on blood red vinyl, all the better to set pulses racing.

Review: Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie stands as Alanis Morissette's most intriguing album. Following the massive success of Jagged Little Pill, which became the tentth best-selling album of all time, Morissette faced immense pressure to replicate its style, but Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie landed like an autumn leafilargely unnoticed but deeply affecting. The album is a complex collection, often pulling Morissette in various directions, making it less cohesive. Morissette's voice remains its strongest feature, resonant and more mature than on her previous work and tracks like 'Baba', with its pre-nu-metal fury, and 'That I Would Be Good,' a heartfelt ballad, showcase her considerable range. 'Thank U' and 'UR' hint at the direction of her next album, while 'Would Not Come' explores trip-hop influences. Morissette's most compelling work and definitely worthy of rediscovery.

Review: Mxmtoon is a self-made superstar. She's brought the world's attention to her art through being compelling as a Youtuber and Twitch stream icon. Off the back of her endearing social engagement and community building abilities, now she has a fully-fledged music career and is touring the globe. And it all started in her bedroom. Although her audience has grown considerably since she first started out home broadcasting, her personable charm and intimate singer-songwiter style remains intact on Liminal Space, which is Mxmtoon's third studio album. That said, Mxmtoon hasn't been afraid to experiment with arrangements in the studio and embellish that folk-pop core. 'I Hate Texas' is a soaring pop ballad with an atmospheric wall of sound begging for rotation on daytime radio. Elsewhere, the gentler numbers, 'Rain' and 'Elevator', are steeped in Americana, which offers a ye olde charm to the otherwise breezily modern pop sound.