Back catalogue: Pop

Review: A new song by the acclaimed DJ Mitsu The Beats (a member of Sendai's hip-hop crew Gagle) and rapper Sorane, 'Daily Meets' is a chillaxed, fluid lo-hi-fi hip-hop tonic for those whose ears require polishing, refreshing and/or full-blown aneling in the morning. Getting at a quotidian "everyday life" themes - bleary eyes, coffee shop hissings, cutlery tinkles, long gazes out the window - this jazzy track blends sharp lyricism with repetitious slice-of-life themes, finding joy in those life periods that the less patient among us dare to call groundhog days. Backed up by the instrumental too, you're more than well equipped for both DJ and home system play here.

Review: This superb remix of Yuji Ohno's soulful gem 'Fairy Night' feat. Sonia Rosa, which is the ending theme for the anime Lupin the Third Part III from 1984, is now released as a 7" single to mark the 40th anniversary of its original release. The 45 rpm features two tracks: Side A showcases DJ Taro's fresh city funk remix, while Side B presents the classic 1984 version by Yuji Ohno. This limited release offers a rare opportunity to enjoy Sonia Rosa's sweet, evocative vocals through both the original and contemporary renditions which are subtly different but both equally excellent.

Review: Sweetbox's 'Everything's Gonna Be Alright' ingeniously intertwines classical motifs with contemporary pop, creating a distinctive sonic experience. The title track stands out, seamlessly blending Johann Sebastian Bach's 'Air on the G String' with modern beats, resulting in a harmonious fusion that feels both timeless and fresh. Tina Harris's soulful vocals add depth, delivering uplifting lyrics that resonate with optimism. This innovative approach not only pays homage to classical compositions but also reimagines them within a pop context, offering listeners a refreshing take on familiar melodies.

Review: This 7-inch single, plucked from the 'Seaside Chillout Breeze' compilation, offers a taste of summery bliss. Side A features TAMTAM's delightful cover of Mad Professor's dub masterpiece 'Sweet Cherry'. The Tokyo-based band infuses the track with their signature colourful grooves, adding steel pans for an extra touch of seaside charm. Flip the record over for Seahawks' 'No More Raindrops (Steel Pan Dub)', a slice of Balearic bliss that evokes a carefree summer vibe. Together, these two tracks capture the essence of the compilation, offering a perfect soundtrack for seaside relaxation.

Review: LSD’s Remixes EP channels the group’s genre-blurring ethos into a collection that thrives on reinvention. Lil Wayne’s charged verse on ‘Genius’ adds grit without overshadowing the original’s playful intensity. MK’s remix of ‘Thunderclouds’ transforms its soaring vocals into a deep house anthem, all pulsing bass and late-night allure. Banx & Ranx’s reggae-infused take on ‘Genius’ radiates sun-soaked warmth, while Dombresky’s remix of ‘No New Friends’ packs a punch with relentless house energy. CID’s rework of ‘Audio’ dials up crisp, percussive beats that slice through its melodic core. Meanwhile, The Aston Shuffle injects ‘Heaven Can Wait’ with shimmering synth layers, balancing nostalgia with dancefloor readiness. Lost Frequencies’ remix of ‘Thunderclouds’ closes the record on a euphoric high, reframing its introspection with bright, festival-ready optimism. This is LSD’s universe expanded — familiar yet thrillingly unpredictable.

Review: Melike Sahin's latest release is a compelling fusion of traditional Anatolian pop and contemporary production. Recorded live in London with producer Martin Terefe, the album features a diverse ensemble, including guitarists Dave Okumu and violinist Raven Bush. Tracks like 'Sag Salim' and 'Ortak' showcase Sahin's powerful vocals and poignant lyrics, resonating with themes of survival and empowerment. The album's orchestral grandeur and dramatic flair reflect Sahin's deep connection to her cultural roots, while the modern production injects urgency and relevance. This release reaffirms Sahin's status as a leading voice in contemporary Turkish music.

Review: Follow Me is the second album from celebrated actress Yasuko Sawaguchi, whose look as well as vocal talent made her a beloved icon of the 1980s. Originally released in 1988, this album features ten tracks including the standout theme song 'Follow Me' from her starring role in the drama Exciting Rock 'n' Roll Street. With acclaimed composer Tetsuya Komuro contributing his musical talents, 'Follow Me' captures the vibrant energy of the era by blending pop melodies with Sawaguchi's unique charm. This release is a nostalgic nod to her career and an essential addition for fans of 80s Japanese pop culture.

Review: Celebrating the 20th anniversary of their self-titled debut album, this iconic release, which was the UK's best-selling album of 2004, returns on a limited green edition coloured vinyl. Known for their eccentric style and high-energy, feel-good lyrics, the album's original release on February 2, 2004 propelled the band to global fame. Featuring fan favourites like 'Take Your Mama,' 'Laura,' and 'Filthy/Gorgeous,' the album has sold nearly four million copies worldwide, racked up 300 million streams and won 'Best International Album' at the 2005 Brits.

Review: The latest project of the singer Rebecca Lucy Taylor, who cur her teeth on the Sheffield musioc scene before heading south, sees her continuing to evolve her sharp, emotionally honest brand of pop. This album leans further into lush, layered production while keeping the confessional, anthemic spirit that made her previous work resonate so deeply. Tracks like 'Big Man' explode with bold rhythms and crisp, shimmering synths, pairing vulnerability with fierce, almost theatrical energy. Meanwhile, 'Love Second' rides a smoother, soulful groove, highlighting Taylor's ability to balance playfulness and pain within the same breath. Her vocal performances are even more dynamic here i full of defiant strength one moment and tender intimacy the next. 'Insert Girl' and 'Hard To Love' deliver some of the album's most affecting moments, weaving percussive pop beats with lyrical reflections on identity, expectation and resilience. There's an undeniable polish across A Complicated Woman, but it never feels cold; instead, the production wraps around Taylor's words like a protective armor. Brief but potent interludes and clever lyrical turns keep the album moving with a strong narrative flow. A Complicated Woman feels like both a natural continuation and a bold new chapter for Self Esteem i pop music that's brave, bruised and utterly alive.

Review: Rebecca Lucy Taylor blows stormy second wind our way with A Complicated Woman, her first full-length release as Self Esteem since the critically lauded Prioritise Pleasure. The record finds Taylor, who cut her teeth with Sheffield indie hopefuls The Slow Club, expanding her signature lyrical honesty and emotional intelligence over an increasingly vivid, ambitious landscape, convoking a potent collective of mostly female voices: friends, bandmates, and collaborators Nadine Shah, Moonchild Sanelly, Sue Tompkins, drag queen Meatball and actor Julie Hesmondhalgh all feature. Recalibrating the well-worn trope of female hysteria in indie rock terms, lead single 'Focus Is Power' channels a mantra first scribbled on a sticker in her parents' shed during lockdown into a full-bodied affirmation of self-worth, echoed by a moving choir and a communal performance in its accompanying video.

Review: Colombian pop icon Shakira's second English-language album returns on opaque bone vinyl, 20 years after it helped cement her global status. Packed with theatrical pop-rock and Latin-inflected radio hits, the reissue pairs familiar standouts with deeper cuts and remixes. 'Hips Don't Lie (feat Wyclef Jean)' remains irrepressible-part brass-driven anthem, part carnival chant-while 'Illegal (feat Carlos Santana)' and 'Don't Bother' draw from her rockier instincts. Tracks like 'Timor' and 'Animal City' tackle political themes with surprising sharpness, while 'The Day and the Time (feat Gustavo Cerati)' and 'Your Embrace' lean more atmospheric. Bonus cuts like the Spanish version of 'Hips Don't Lie' and the radio remix of 'Illegal' round off a package that captures the ambition and stylistic reach of Shakira's mid-2000s peak-a restless blend of Latin pop, angsty ballads and sleek crossover hooks.

Review: British singer-songwriter Shura has spent some serious time, effort and thought on I Got Too Sad For My Friends. Six years, in fact. During that period, she's clearly learned at lot about life, love, loss, and whatever other L-word you can think of that means 'maturity' to those in the know. The result is a spectacularly accomplished collection that reveals an artist at their creative peak. To date, anyway. Cornerstone of the record, and the very first single, is 'Recognise', and this is perhaps the strongest case in point. From whispy and whispered opening, through full, cacophonous bloom, it's a track that keeps us in a beautiful dark until its monumental, joyful reveal. Elsewhere, 'Ringpull' and 'The World's Worst Girlfriend' betray a clear penchant for classic 1980s pop, while the likes of 'Online' seem to float in on a serene cloud of gentile pianos and hovering strings.

Review: Sia's sixth studio album 1000 Forms of Fear, released in 2014 and now reissued as a special 10th anniversary edition, delves deep into themes of vulnerability, introspection and overcoming personal demons. Known for her distinctive voice and emotive lyrics, Sia explores complex emotions through powerful ballads like 'Chandelier' which became a global anthem for resilience. Tracks such as 'Elastic Heart' and 'Big Girls Cry' continue to resonate for their raw honesty and dynamic production. 1000 Forms of Fear showcases Sia's ability to blend pop sensibilities with deep emotional depth, which is why it earned critical acclaim and solidified her reputation as a singer-songwriter capable of connecting deeply with listeners worldwide.

Review: Sia's Everyday Is Christmas brings a fresh take to the holiday music scene with a mix of festive cheer and pop creativity. The album shines in moments of joy and playfulness, particularly with tracks like 'Santa's Coming for Us', which is upbeat, catchy, and perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. The lively rhythm and fun chorus make it one of the standout songs that can easily become a seasonal favorite. 'Underneath the Mistletoe' is another highlight, showcasing Sia's impressive vocal range and delivering a more emotional, heartfelt vibe that feels both modern and timeless. It's one of the stronger ballads on the album, allowing her voice to take centre stage without the distraction of heavy production. While tracks like 'Puppies Are Forever' may feel whimsical and geared toward a younger audience, they add a playful touch that can be enjoyable in the right context. The album overall strikes a balance between upbeat holiday anthems and softer, reflective moments, like 'Snowman', which brings a quieter, more sentimental tone. Everyday Is Christmas is a refreshing mix of fun and festive charm, with enough variety to appeal to listeners of all ages.

Review: Simply Red's Love & The Russian Winter is one of many great modern soul albums from the flame-haired Mancunian and one that really captures his band's signature blend of soul, pop and jazz styles. Released originally back in 1999, the album is now a full quarter of a century old and features smooth melodies and rich instrumentation with Mick Hucknall's emotive vocals shining throughout. Tracks like 'The World and You Tonight' and 'Love Is a Long Road' highlight the group's ability to weave heartfelt lyrics with infectious grooves while the lush arrangements and sophisticated production create a warm atmosphere which makes it perfect for both relaxed listening and intimate gatherings. Overall, this one still sounds great and is a great testament to Simply Red's enduring appeal.

Review: Simply Red's Home is a classic from the early 2000s, featuring hits like 'Sunrise,' 'Fake,' and a memorable cover of The Stylistics' 'You Make Me Feel Brand New'. The album features Mick Hucknall's soulful vocals and the band's knack for catchy melodies at the height of their powers, and the special Anniversary Edition on 180g black vinyl is a treat for fans, with newly mastered tracks and a gatefold sleeve featuring lyrics, credits and a previously unseen photo. Home is a solid album that captures Simply Red's signature sound and whether you're a longtime fan or discovering their music for the first time, this Anniversary Edition will be a great addition to your collection.

Review: The 1967 album Country, My Way by Nancy Sinatra, reissued by Light In The Attic, highlights her distinctive blend of pop and country. Recorded at RCA Studios in Nashville, the album shows Nancy's ability to fuse her own style with classic country elements. The album opens with the upbeat 'It's Such a Pretty World Today' and includes the hit duet 'Jackson' with Hazlewood, rivalling Johnny Cash and June Carter's version. Nancy's take on George Jones' 'Walk Through This World with Me' and Don Gibson's 'Oh Lonesome Me' prove her command of country ballads. The album's other great tracks also include the emotional 'When It's Over' and the joyous 'Lay Some Happiness on Me'. Remastered from the original analogue tapes by John Baldwin, the reissue adds five bonus tracks, including the James Bond theme 'You Only Live Twice' and the non-album single 'Tony Rome'. With its expanded gatefold jacket and a 20-page booklet featuring a Q&A with Nancy, this reissue pays homage to her pioneering musical contributions.

Review: Nancy Sinatra, with her strong, sultry voice and savvy approach, has been a pioneering force in music and business, shaping the path for future female artists while dropping many a great record. On a chilly spring day in 1966, a then twenty-five-year-old Sinatra recorded 'Strawberries, cherries, and an angel's kiss in spring...' for her third LP within four months at London's Pye Studios, known for having hosted The Kinks, Petula Clark, and David Bowie. The album, produced in just three days, features a distinct British flavour with tracks like 'On Broadway,' 'Wishin' and Hopin',' and 'This Little Bird' and also includes the classic Nancy & Lee Hazlewood duet 'Summer Wine.'

Review: The definitive reissue of Nancy Sinatra's 1967 album Country, My Way brilliantly show her unique fusion of pop and country, a sound she pioneered alongside producer Lee Hazlewood. Featuring the iconic singles 'Jackson' and 'Oh Lonesome Me', the album is a beacon to Sinatra's artistic evolution during a vibrant period in her career. This reissue also includes five bonus tracks, such as the non-album 1967 singles 'Love Eyes' and 'Until It's Time for You to Go', providing a richer context for Sinatra's artistic journey. Packaged in an expanded gatefold with a 20-page booklet, it features a Q&A with Sinatra and co-producer Hunter Lea, along with never-before-seen photos from her personal archive. Sinatra's legacy as a strong and savvy artist is evident in her ability to redefine genres and influence countless musicians, making this reissue not only a celebration of her past but a significant chapter in the ongoing story of female empowerment in music.

Review: While recent breakout hit 'Stargazing' remains an undeniable earworm, this EP doesn't let it overshadow the rest of the tracks. From the infectious opening of 'Nice to Meet You' to the heartfelt closer 'Little By Little', Smith creates a collection full of memorable moments. His ability to blend folk-pop with emotionally charged lyrics shines through, especially on tracks like 'Wait For You' and 'Whisper', where the vulnerability in his voice adds depth to the storytelling. The brilliant collaboration with James Bay on 'Waste' brings an added layer of depth to the EP, with their voices complementing each other beautifully. Meanwhile, '3am' tells the feeling of loss with its haunting violin and introspective. A Minute... is a strong indication of Myles Smith's potential - a collection of songs that are both accessible and sincere. Fans of heartfelt pop-folk will find much to enjoy here and it's clear Smith is on the rise.

Review: The late SOPHIE Xeon shaped modern pop and experimental music with her Grammy-nominated 'Oil of Every Pearl's Un-Insides' and 'PRODUCT' series in the mid-to-late 2010s, working alongside A.G. Cook and PC Music to create some of the most futuristic and bubbly music. Xeon produced for Vince Staples, Madonna and Charli XCX before her sudden passing in January 2021, she is known for her unique, textural production style that has even been featured in McDonald's adverts (of all places). Her first posthumous project has been lovingly brought to fruition by her family estate run by her brother, handpicking songs he says she would've wanted to be released that were nearly finished. The first track 'Reason Why', featuring Kim Petras and BC Kingdom, has long been a fan favourite since live performances and leaked demos hit SoundCloud over four years ago. It's a spacious and squeaky clean dance track, one of many examples SOPHIE produced, showcasing what pop's future could look like.

Review: Almost three years exactly since SOPHIE Xeon's brother revealed his plans to begin work on the first posthumous project compiling the late Scottish producer's unparalleled work, the self-titled SOPHIE album was announced via Transgressive and Future Classics - two labels that SOPHIE worked with to release 2018's grammy-nominated Oil of Every Pearl's Un-Insides. The 2LP has been constructed and mastered by her "most cherished collaborators" and containes an album of tracks that were "near completion" according to the family. Xeon made waves in the music scene following her PRODUCT series, a completely fresh and unique style of irreplaceable production rich with wet bass and handcrafted synths that has influenced everyone from Flume, Arca, Madonna and FKA Twigs. 'Reason Why', the lead single, is a perfect example of the vision for pop music SOPHIE had - bubbly, polished to a mirror sheen and infectiously danceable.

Review: The 40th Anniversary edition of In The Studio by The Special AKA celebrates one of the most unique and politically charged albums of the 1980s. Originally released in 1984, the album fused an eclectic mix of reggae, jazz, soul, and Arabic rhythms, with Jerry Dammers leading the band's bold shift in sound. Despite its modest commercial performance, In The Studio has since gained recognition as an underappreciated classic, thanks to its deeply reflective lyrics and innovative arrangements. The album's standout tracks, 'Free Nelson Mandela' and 'What I Like Most About You Is Your Girlfriend', blended infectious energy with serious political messages. This newly remastered, half-speed mastered edition, overseen by Dammers, gives the album the sonic depth it deserves. With its themes of social unrest and global awareness, In The Studio feels as relevant today as it did four decades ago, a testament to its enduring power.

Review: Gwen Stefani's debut solo album, Love. Angel. Music. Baby., released in late 2004, remains a cornerstone of early 2000s pop. Featuring hits like 'Hollaback Girl', 'Rich Girl' and 'What You Waiting For?', this album achieved massive commercial success, selling over five million copies. Its vibrant mix of genres and styles reflects a chaotic yet captivating blend that mirrors the era's pop landscape. Stefani's playful yet pointed lyrics confront the music industry's misogyny and her own struggles with identity. Tracks like 'What You Waiting For?' showcase her internal conflicts about success and self-expression. As it celebrates its 20th anniversary with a reissue on hot pink vinyl, the album invites listeners to reconsider its legacy: a colorful blend of nostalgia, cultural references, and conflicting messages that resonate beyond its pop veneer.

Review: National Album Day 2024 is here and as part of it, Sugarbabes' Angels With Dirty Faces album has been pressed up to limited translucent yellow vinyl. The second album by the group marked a pivotal moment in their career. Released in 2002, it showcased a fresh, mature sound that blended pop, r&b and electronic influences into standout hits like 'Freak Like Me' and 'Round Round,' both of which helped the trio solidify their place in the UK pop canon. The album's edgy production and catchy melodies helped it achieve critical and commercial success and it eventually went triple platinum. Angels With Dirty Faces not only redefined the Sugababes' image but also cemented their reputation as pop legends.

Review: Natsu Summer's 2024 release, Orange Tsushin (Orange Communication) was produced by Cunimondo Takiguchi of Ryusenkei and now arrives on vinyl closely after the cassette format previously. It's a vibrant fusion of danceable lovers' rock and smooth city pop enriched with amapiano and across the seven cuts includes a standout cover of a 90s Japanese lovers' rock gem that mixes blending reggae and city pop influences. Rach format features unique jacket artwork which further showcases Takiguchi's creativity. Orange Tsushin pays homage to Natsu Summer's Ehime roots and captures the essence of mandarin oranges through its music and visuals for both a fresh and nostalgic listening experience.

Review: Taylor Swift's latest double album delivers an expansive collection of 35 tracks, showcasing her signature storytelling and emotional depth while exploring fresh sonic territory. Featuring collaborations with Post Malone and Florence & The Machine, the album blends introspective ballads with vibrant anthems that highlight Swift's versatility. The record sets a reflective tone, delving into themes of loss, anger and resilience. Tracks like 'So Long London' provide a poignant narrative closure, paralleling earlier songs from her discography while embracing the bittersweetness of moving forward. 'I Can Do It With A Broken Heart' captures the juxtaposition of public strength and private vulnerability with upbeat production reminiscent of Midnights. Collaborations shine throughout; 'Fortnight' finds Swift and Post Malone harmonising beautifully over a wistful melody, while the lively 'Florida!!!' bursts with summer energy, enhanced by Florence Welch's dynamic vocals. The stripped-down 'I Look In People's Windows' emerges as a standout, pairing raw lyricism with delicate guitar work to convey profound grief and longing. The project is a testament to Swift's ability to blend personal reflection with universal themes. With its balance of experimentation and emotional candor, it marks a bold chapter in her ever-evolving career.