Back catalogue: Rock

Review: Recorded in 1975 after the disintegration of The Stooges and eventually released, albeit in altered form, in 1977, the album saw Iggy recording his vocal contributions at weekends, on leave from the mental institution at which he was recovering from heroin addiction. With the addition of pianos, acoustic guitars and saxophones to the musical palate it's a different beast from the raw power - and Raw Power - of the Stooges, a bridge between his garage rock roots and the classier pop offerings he'd soon become known for. A fascinating document, regardless, it's well worth a listen.

Review: This compilation brings together ten standout tracks from Jefferson Airplane's influential descendants, Starship and its predecessor. Opening with the smooth, soulful 'Miracles,' the collection spans the evolution from Airplane's psychedelic roots to Starship's polished rock anthems. Side-1 features the dreamy 'With Your Love,' the uplifting 'Count on Me,' and the classic 'Runaway,' offering a diverse glimpse into the bands' extensive catalog. The side concludes with the quintessential hit 'Jane'. Side-2 is dominated by Starship's most iconic tracks, including the anthemic 'We Built This City' and the rousing 'Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now,' both embodying the band's 80s rock ethos. The side also includes 'Find Your Way Back' and 'Sara', each track highlighting the band's ability to craft enduring pop-rock hits. The final track, 'It's Not Enough', wraps up the compilation with a dynamic flourish. The enduring legacy of Jefferson Airplane's and Starship can not be denied.

Review: Jim Jones All Stars emerges as a potent force in the realm of garage rock with their latest offering, Ain't No Peril. Led by garage rock luminary Jim Jones, the band brings together a formidable lineup of musicians to create a swampy, unholy fusion of rhythm and blues. Recorded amidst the atmospheric aura of Memphis, Tennessee, the album pulsates with raw energy and gritty authenticity. Ain't No Peril features Jones's songwriting ability at its peak, propelled by the relentless drive of Gavin Jay, Elliot Mortimer, Chris Ellul, Carlton Mounsher, and a vibrant horn section. The addition of guest vocalists Nikki Hill and Eugene S. Robinson adds further depth and dynamism to the album. Infused with the essence of the Mississippi delta, each track on Ain't No Peril exudes a primal allure, beckoning listeners into a sonic landscape of dark grooves and infectious rhythms. With this release, Jim Jones All Stars are torchbearers of the garage rock tradition, delivering a visceral and exhilarating musical experience.

Review: Elton John's Madman Across the Water is a cornerstone of his early 1970s output. It's a window into his magnificently emotive songwriting and Bernie Taupin's vivid lyricism and this reissue comes on limited edition blue splatter vinyl. Featuring iconic tracks like the dramatic 'Levon' and the hauntingly beautiful 'Tiny Dancer,' both timeless fan favourites, it was first released in 1971. Its blend of lush orchestration with Elton's signature piano melodies creates an intimate yet grand sound. Pie for the collection, for sure.

Review: This is one of many landmark albums from the great pop innovator Elton John and one packed with his signature blend of pop, rock and heartfelt balladry. Released in 1973 and soon topping the charts, the album features iconic tracks like the wistful 'Daniel' and the upbeat, rollicking 'Crocodile Rock' which both became instant classics. This one reflects Elton's growing confidence as a composer and performer, with Bernie Taupin's evocative lyrics adding depth to every song. Backed by lush arrangements and Elton's masterful piano work the essence of 1970s pop-rock is right here.

Review: Two British pop legends unite for Who Believes in Angels?, a new record spot-checking our faith in divinity. Having connected through a mutual admiration and shared love of music, Elton initially became a fan of Carlile through her effusions of folk, rock and country, which matched the former's megastar's sometimes pained, moving songwriting. Their friendship deepened over the years, with Carlile performing at Elton's annual AIDS Foundation events and joining him on stage for special collaborations. Now blending Elton-led and Brandi-led tracks, the album contains lyrics from longtime collaborator Bernie Taupin alongside Carlile's own contributions, with production by Andrew Watt. This marks Elton's 33rd studio album and Brandi's eighth.

Review: What you see before you ranks among the most mythologised live albums (n)ever released. Like the title suggests, it was originally recorded in 1972 at Parisian rock institution Le Bataclan, a legendary venue which would later gain notoriety after a group of armed gunmen opened fire on a crowd in 2015, killing 90 people. But that grisly recent history belies its status as one of the most respected concert halls in the French capital, and this not-quite-Velvet Underground show has contributed to that legacy. Showcasing the stop-you-dead qualities of Nico's staggering (and unique) vocal timbre, the surreal, immersive qualities of the Cale and Reed's legendary art-rock tones, this time capsule had been bootlegged and bootlegged until 2004, when it finally got an official release. Now it's back.