Vinyl B-Stocks

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


Joan Armatrading's latest release is a rich collection of songs that showcases her impressive skill as both a songwriter and a musician. Each track blends thoughtful lyrics with her signature melodic style and there's a refreshing mix of full-band arrangements and stripped-back instrumentals. Her guitar work stands out, adding a raw edge to the songs, while her lyrics explore personal reflections and universal themes, as always with honesty and depth. It's a release that reaffirms her place as a long-time favourite, offering both a nod to her past and a new chapter in her musical journey.

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


Autofiction is certainly a triumphant return for the mighty Suede, one of the most iconic of all UK indie bands who helped nurture the Britpop movement out of nappies and into big boy pants, and big boy record deals, during the early-1990s. Whether this is exactly the rebirth into a punk outfit some corners of the press would have you believe is another question.

Ultimately, LP number nine definitely feels like a change of tact, with Brett Anderson's voice taking on a new, grizzlier sound (albeit at times still erupting into the siren-esque tones we fell head over heels for first time round). On the whole, it would be far more accurate simply to label this outing as tougher, rawer and much less affected than the stuff we've had in the past.