{"title":"Big Crown","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBig Crown Records is a Brooklyn based independent record label started in 2016 by Leon Michels \u0026amp; Danny Akalepse. With a focus on soul, funk, and R\u0026amp;B music, Big Crown has quickly gained recognition for its high-quality releases and commitment to preserving the sound of classic genres.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe label's founders, Leon Michels and Danny Akalepse, bring decades of experience in the music industry to their work at Big Crown. Michels is a renowned producer and multi-instrumentalist who has worked with artists such as Lee Fields and Sharon Jones. Akalepse is a respected DJ and collector known for his deep knowledge of rare records.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSince its inception, Big Crown Records has released albums from an impressive roster of talented artists including *Lee Fields*, *The Shacks*, *Bacao Rhythm \u0026amp; Steel Band*, and many more. The label prides itself on working closely with its artists to create unique and authentic music that resonates with listeners.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"how-we-do-nuthin-but-a-g-thang","title":"How We Do \/ Nuthin' But A G Thang","description":"\u003cp\u003eBacao Rhythm \u0026amp; Steel Band are back with a heavy two sider of West Coast Hip Hop covers that put a new spin on tried and true classics. Side A is their cover of Game and 50 Cent's \"How We Do\", one of the standouts from Game's 2005 debut album. It was their cover of 50's PIMP that really put Bacao on the map and now they are back to lend their sound to another club hit. Steel pans and horn lines trade off over their signature heavy drums and breathe new life into this classic. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe B Side is another show stopper. Bacao takes on Dr Dre \u0026amp; Snoop Dogg's \"Nuthin But A G Thang\" and give it a proper treatment. Staying close to the original and replaying the iconic synth and bass lines on the pans proves to be incredible. This will be working its way through DJ sets around the globe as soon as it hits the streets. Steel drum cover of Dr Dre’s “Nuthin But A G Thang”. Steel drum cover of Game \u0026amp; 50 Cent’s “How We Do”.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50382788231499,"sku":"2029995","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Bacao_Rhythm__Steel_Band_-_How_We_Do_7_ac4165bd_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726259271"},{"product_id":"footwork-bw-morning-glory-2","title":"Footwork b\/w Morning Glory","description":"\u003cp\u003eDebut 7” from Dave Guy. Member of The Roots, El Michels Affair, Menahan Street Band, The Dap Kings, The Budos Band. Produced by Homer Steinweiss \u0026amp; Nick Movshon. Big Crown Records is proud to present the debut offering from the newest artist to join the label, the man on trumpet, Dave Guy. Dave is a long time friend, collaborator, and contributor to a boatload of songs on the label and far beyond it. A member of The Roots, The Dap Kings, and The Budos Band, he has lent his talents to the music of everyone from Amy Winehouse \u0026amp; Lizzo to Lee Fields \u0026amp; Charles Bradley. Now Dave steps to the front of the stage with a debut record that could have only come from a seasoned veteran. Teaming up in the studio with fellow long time collaborators Homer Steinweiss \u0026amp; Nick Movshon, who handle the production as well as play on the recordings, the set of songs on this 7\" are telling of what's to come. Side A, \"Footwork\" is a Latin inspired tune that gets you up from the intro drum fill and is sure to soundtrack many a dancefloor from Soho to Harlem and far beyond the city that inspired it. Dave's trumpet lines are infectious, something about his playing walks the line of jazz and vocal arrangement. The choruses are moving, the verses are gorgeous, the backing band couldn't be sharper as they push the tune down the tracks making this an instant classic. Side B, \"Morning Glory\" is drenched in swag. The trumpet line repeats to great effect over the walking beat and the arrangement takes you through all the changes while staying entirely in the groove. It is easy to draw comparisons to 70s soundtrack music a la Marvin Gaye's Trouble Man but Dave's music is clearly contemporary pulling the best influences from the past and pushing them forward.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50382961148235,"sku":"2176627","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Dave_Guy_-_Footwork_7_9408876e_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726261626"},{"product_id":"in-space-reissue","title":"In Space (Reissue)","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig Star’s 2005 studio return. Big Star formed in 1971, and in their brief 4 years together, created 3 albums that consistently make “Best of All-Time” lists. 18 years after officially disbanding, original members Alex Chilton and Jody Stephens joined forces with The Posies’ Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow for a live performance, which led to a tour (documented on Omnivore Recordings’ \u003ci\u003eLive In Memphis\u003c\/i\u003e), and years of concerts. While the live shows were a joy and surprise, a bigger surprise happened in 2005. After over a decade playing together: a new studio album. \u003ci\u003eIn Space\u003c\/i\u003e featured new 12 tracks (11 originals and a cover of The Olympics’ \u003ci\u003eMine Exclusively\u003c\/i\u003e) recorded where Big Star began, at the classic Ardent Studios. The new line up was creating a new chapter for the band while minding and honouring its past. With original vinyl going for outrageous prices, In Space returns as an LP on translucent blue vinyl, and expanded CD with 6 bonus tracks including \u003ci\u003eHot Thing\u003c\/i\u003e (previously available on the out-of-print Big Star Story) and 5 previously unissued demos and alternate mixes. Packaging contains liner notes from Rougvie, original album co-producer \/ engineer Jeff Powell (who also cut the new vinyl), assistant Ardent engineer Adam Hill, and surviving band members Jon Auer, Ken Stringfellow, and Jody Stephens. Expanded and remastered, \u003ci\u003eIn Space\u003c\/i\u003e finally returns to earth.\u003ca\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Omnivore","offers":[{"title":"Blue | LP","offer_id":50383911223627,"sku":"1074624","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50383911092555,"sku":"1074623","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/5c3e9fb1-39a0-4b8e-b336-dac091ca507a_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726278239"},{"product_id":"brsb-2","title":"BRSB","description":"\u003cp\u003eSteel Drum covers of Drake, Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre, Claudja Barry, The Game \u0026amp; 50 Cent, A$AP Rocky, Stranger Things Theme, and more.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBacao Rhythm and Steel Band, the mysterious steel pan outfi­t hailing from Hamburg, Germany have amassed a cult following around the globe. With a slew of classic 7”s and three critically acclaimed full length albums, they set a high bar for themselves, one they clearly intend on pushing even higher with this new offering. On their fourth album \u003ci\u003eBRSB\u003c\/i\u003e, Bacao are back with more of the same, but more of the same with them is inherently different. Covering songs that span genres and range from mega hits to underground album cuts, they make them their own with their unique approach to the traditional steel pans of Trinidad and Tobago. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile part of the allure of a new Bacao Rhythm and Steel Band album is ­finding out what covers they do it is equally intriguing to see what original tunes they cooked upland this record is foul of stand out originals. The album opener, “In The Crosshairs” is a rough and tough mid tempo head nodder while both “Grilled” and “Treasure Quest” pick up the tempo with heavy African Funk in‑fluences on both. Bacao goes deep with “Hazy Memories”, a bass heavy slow burner that walks a line between hypnotic and hype. All these originals stand as testament that the term “cover band” is a shoe that could never fi­t Bacao. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever, in the tradition of steel pan music, they do a heavy amount of covers. This time around there is a big West Coast Hip Hop influence with covers of Game \u0026amp; 50 Cent’s “How We Do”, Dr Dre and Snoop Dogg’s “Nuthin But A G Thang”, and Tupac’s “Got My Mind Made Up” all of which take on new energy and lend themselves to the \u003ci\u003eBRSB\u003c\/i\u003e steel treatment. Bacao puts another certifi­ed dance‑floor fil­ler on their resume with their cover of Claudja Barry’s uber Disco classic “Love For The Sake Of Love” which they flip into a dubbed out affair aptly changing even the title to “Love For The Sake Of Dub”. Pulling from the contemporary smash hit section of Hip Hop they cover Drake’s “Hotline Bling” and “Love$ick” by Mura Masa and A$AP Rocky. Then they go very unexpected with “Stranger Things Theme” where they take the synth heavy theme song to the hit show and give it a more hypnotizing tone than the original. By the time \u003ci\u003eBRSB\u003c\/i\u003e is through, Bacao has taken the listener on a journey spanning a myriad of energies, tempos, and moods while keeping it all under one umbrella. For all that, these songs are alive, and they will be taken out of the context of this album and sewn into the fabric of DJ sets around the globe for many years to come. Bacao Rhythm and Steel Band continues building their legacy and pushing the boundaries of steel pan music forward with another rock solid musical offering. Enjoyand\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Yellow LP","offer_id":50383972991307,"sku":"2169930","price":29.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50383973286219,"sku":"2169933","price":29.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50383973450059,"sku":"2169935","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Bacao_Rhythm__Steel_Band__BRSB_4cce2cf9_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726281176"},{"product_id":"radio-city-1","title":"Radio City","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBig Star\u003c\/i\u003e, considered to be among the founders of power pop, has been cited as an influence by many of the major alternative bands of the ’80s and ’90s, and continues to be a powerful presence in today’s musical landscape. \u003ci\u003eRadio City\u003c\/i\u003e is the second album from Big Star. Released in 1974, \u003ci\u003eRadio City\u003c\/i\u003e includes “September Gurls” and “Back of a Car” which remain some of the most famous Big Star songs. The legacy of \u003ci\u003eRadio City\u003c\/i\u003e has far exceeded the original commercial letdowns of the album, which is now considered to be a milestone in the history of rock by critics and musicians alike. Both \u003ci\u003eRadio City\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003e#1 Record\u003c\/i\u003e made it onto Rolling Stone‘s 500 “Greatest Albums of All Time” lists, while tracks from each album (“Thirteen” and “September Gurls”) are also among the magazine’s 500 “Greatest Songs of All Time\".\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Craft Recordings","offers":[{"title":"Red LP.","offer_id":50384456974667,"sku":"2198239","price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Red LP","offer_id":50504018329931,"sku":"2225588","price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50384456778059,"sku":"297588","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":56460173902155,"sku":"R0450-7640","price":32.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Radio_City_Remastered_4926001a_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726299473"},{"product_id":"perak","title":"Perak","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen you ­first hear Thee Marloes, their particular soul sound may seem familiar enough. There are the weighty drums, a crooning guitar, and a beautiful voice singing about unrequited love and the complications inherent in affairs of the heart. But then there is something undeniably different about Thee Marloes and their music, something new and distinct. And while you may be acquainted with soul music, you've probably never heard it from Surabaya, Indonesia the place they call home. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Thee Marloes are Natassya Sianturi singing and playing keys, Tommy Satwick on drums, and Sinatrya (\"Raka\") Dharaka on guitar and handling production. Their sound has the universal appeal of soul, jazz, and pop, but with a distinct approach attributable to their local culture and global influence. Regardless of any language barrier, the sentiment in their music is palpable, helping to make their songs relatable and heartfelt. The rest of Perak fi­ts perfectly in between those bookends of both energy and language, “I Know” is a mid-tempo burner that talks about pulling the veil of lies off a love affair founded on falsehood. “Not Today” is right up there with the grooviest feel good songs you could ever play on a Sunday morning with Natassya reminding us to make space for ourselves no matter what life throws our way. “Mungkin Saja” brings the tempo back up with another dance floor smoker while “True Love” fi­nds Thee Marloes dipping into the soulful side of jazz with a beat ballad that could soundtrack a Tarantino dance scene. “Over” starts out with a heavy drum break and evolves into an epic arrangement drenched in layers of gorgeous melodies capturing the havoc of a love affair that ends abruptly perfectly.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50386172019019,"sku":"2198729","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Clear Merah","offer_id":50386172445003,"sku":"2198732","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50386172805451,"sku":"2198735","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Tape","offer_id":58035312394571,"sku":"R8951-0978","price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Thee_Marloes__Perak_33af2fbb_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726321921"},{"product_id":"piece-of-me-come-on-in","title":"Piece Of Me \/ Joy \u0026 Pain","description":"\u003cp\u003eOn January 28, 2022, Lady Wray released her Piece Of Me album. A deeply personal record that takes on the good and the bad in life from deception and abuse to the joys of motherhood and triumph. The accolades the album has received in the year it has been out speak volumes. Performing on The Stephen Colbert Show, selling out multiple US tours, cleaning up in the best of 2022 lists, and then crushing an NPR Tiny Desk on the 1 year anniversary of the album. Piece Of Me continues to find its way to new ears and has already proved itself a timeless classic. So where do you go from here? When Ghostface Killah reaches out and says he wants to do a remix of the title track you do that. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe A side, \"Piece Of Me\" (Remix) features Ironman himself who puts down a verse about a relationship that ran its course but no one is sure they did the right thing in. Ghostface sounds right at home over the gully Leon Michels produced track and takes the already rock solid tune to another level. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThen what do you do for a B side.... You call The Chocolate Boy Wonder, Pete Rock and get him to remix \"Joy \u0026amp; Pain\". Pete takes one of the stand out tunes on the album and gives it an entirely different energy with thundering drums and a bassline that shake the windows in the car. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA Side: Piece Of Me (feat. Ghostface Killah)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eB Side: Joy \u0026amp; Pain (Pete Rock Remix)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50389225374027,"sku":"1059730","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Lady_Wray__Pete_Rock_-_Piece_Of_Me_feat._Ghostface_Killah_7_ee41bf56_thumbna.jpg?v=1726355833"},{"product_id":"the-serpents-mouth","title":"The Serpents Mouth","description":"\u003cp\u003eFollowing up on the massive worldwide success of their debut album\u003ci\u003e 55,\u003c\/i\u003e Bacao Rhythm and Steel band is back with another heavy duty offering. Picking up where they left off and incorporating a ton of new recording techniques they take a huge step forward with \u003ci\u003eThe Serpent’s Mouth\u003c\/i\u003e. Named after the eight-mile strait between the island of Trinidad and the coast of Venezuela, The Serpent’s Mouth is a journey through both originals and covers, combining classic elements that wide-eared music fans already know, and mashing them up in new and unique ways. Take \u003ci\u003e1 Thing\u003c\/i\u003e – on it, the group attacks the galloping, chopped Amerie smash hit, with singing pans that follow the R \u0026amp; B vocal. The sound is crisp and up-front, arguably more muscular than the 2005 original. On \u003ci\u003eGreat To Be Here\u003c\/i\u003e, they take on the Jackson 5 B-Boy favourite (which stretches back to the Zulu Nation \/ Bronx block party days) – uncoincidentally, the original version featured a guitar lick that emulated a steel pan run. Here, it gets an even more pulsating groove, adding open-drums breaks throughout, to get DJs salivating. The group veers through more inventively-constructed covers as the album’s sequence continues, including Gang Starr’s \u003ci\u003eAll For The Cash\u003c\/i\u003e; Mary J. Blige’s \u003ci\u003eI Love You\u003c\/i\u003e; and the recently unleashed first single, \u003ci\u003eXXplosive\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eBurn\u003c\/i\u003e, paying tribute to both Dr. Dre and Mobb Deep for a bi-coastal funk party. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50389240414539,"sku":"1043297","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50389241692491,"sku":"1043298","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/1cda4cbf-182e-4666-b1c2-b4d93cd18d22_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726356015"},{"product_id":"education-and-recreation","title":"Education and Recreation","description":"\u003cp\u003eSurprise Chef’s music is based on evoking mood; their vivid arrangements utilize time and space to build soundscapes that invite the listener into their world. The quintet’s distinct sound pulls from 70s film scores, the funkier side of jazz, and the samples that form the foundation of hip hop. They push the boundaries of instrumental soul and funk with their own approach honed by countless hours in the studio, studying the masters, and perhaps most importantly, the “tyranny of distance” that dictates a unique perspective to their music.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHailing from just outside of Melbourne, Australia their first two albums, \u003ci\u003eAll News Is Good News\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eDaylight Savings\u003c\/i\u003e amassed a die-hard fanbase and brought their sound from their home studio to every corner of the globe. The band is now signed to Big Crown Records, joining a lineage of contemporary and classic sounds that have influenced Surprise Chef’s music since their formation in 2017.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn new album \u003ci\u003eEducation and Recreation, t\u003c\/i\u003eracks like “Velodrome” pair chunky drums with an earworm synth line that has all the making of something you would find on an Ultimate Breaks and Beats compilation while numbers like “Iconoclasts” show their knack for tasteful use of space. From the crushing intro of “Suburban Breeze” to the floaty mellow bop of “Spring’s Theme” Surprise Chef has weaved together an album that takes you through peaks and valleys of emotion and provides a vivid soundtrack that will pull you deeper into your imagination. There is a beauty in the vast space for interpretation of instrumental music and they are adding a modern classic to the canon with this new album. Turn on the record and enjoy the ride, wherever it may take you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | LP","offer_id":50389362770251,"sku":"1162487","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Red | LP","offer_id":50389363229003,"sku":"1162488","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50389362934091,"sku":"1162486","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50389363065163,"sku":"1162307","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/42c19e55-ace3-4bf2-ae7b-840658fc0b87_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726358584"},{"product_id":"zero-grace","title":"Zero Grace","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig Crown Records is proud to present \u003ci\u003eZero Grace,\u003c\/i\u003e Liam Bailey’s sophomore album on the label. Following the success of 2020’s \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e album, the tried and true chemistry of Bailey and producer Leon Michels (El Michels Affair) is on full display again as they take the sound they established and push it further. On \u003ci\u003eZero Grace\u003c\/i\u003e they lean more into the bleeding heart singer-songwriter side of Liam. The result, much like Bailey himself, is impulsively honest without reserve.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBorn and raised in Nottingham, England, the son of an English mother and 2nd generation Jamaican English father, Liam will admit his early childhood was fairly chaotic and ­lled with \"all the cliche racism that happens when people started mixing up in the '80s in England.\" Liam got his early in‑uences from his mom’s record collection. Bob Marley and Dillinger, Stevie Wonder and The Supremes, The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix would eventually shape the singer\/songwriter we know today. Fast-forward to 2005, Liam is in London performing at every open mic and acoustic night he could, hustling with hopes of landing a record deal. It was through this time that Liam ­rst teamed up with Michels, musician\/producer luminary, and the co-founder of Brooklyn's own Big Crown Records. Liam ‑ew out to New York and those ­rst sessions together produced the now classic tunes “When Will They Learn” and “I’m Gonna Miss You” which still gets spins at Reggae spots around the globe and were co-signed by heavy hitters like David Rodigan and Don Letts. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThat ­first trip to NYC brought a lot of industry attention to Liam, including being noticed by a just-famous Amy Winehouse who heard one of Liam's apartment-made, lo-fi­ recordings, and liked what she heard. Regardless of the audio quality, Liam's particular sound shone through—all guitar, warm-rough and genuine soul. Eventually Liam signed to Polydor and wound up bumping against the typical major label industry obstacles. They already had an idea of the Liam they wanted to make, promote, and push. With the typical large advance enticement, Liam did his best to trust that path. \"Maybe I can make it work,' that's what you're thinking,\" Liam remembers, \"but, you quickly ­find out that you can't.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eZero Grace\u003c\/i\u003e is full of freedom and love, in fact, working with Leon Michels and Big Crown Records has encouraged Liam to be himself. On album opener “Holding On '' Bailey speaks to his observations and fears when looking out at the world in front of him and also to the dedication it has taken to get on the other side of his personal trials and tribulations. “Dance With Me\" is an instantly infectious two-stepper that nods to those incredible soul records that were coming out of Jamaica during the early Reggae days. Bailey steps into the dance with hopes of ­finding a new love and pulls us all out on the dance floor with him. “Disorder Starts At Home” is another close to the chest tune that addresses the dif­culties he struggles with from his early chaotic childhood and his progress in getting past them. \"Mercy Tree\" is a powerhouse of Reggae Rebel Music. Bailey addresses the racial tensions that plague humanity and encourages everyone to step up and do their part to help foster equality. What starts out as a declaration of injustice turns into a call for action and an inspiration for hope.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Light Blue LP","offer_id":50390881960267,"sku":"2167177","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50390881304907,"sku":"2167176","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50390880551243,"sku":"2167171","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Zero_Grace_a25995ac_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726395639"},{"product_id":"1-record-1","title":"#1 Record","description":"\u003cp\u003eRecorded at Ardent Studios and released in 1972, the album has gone on to become one of the most influential and iconic debut albums of all time. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 50th-anniversary indie exclusive edition is pressed on 180-gram metallic gold with purple smoke vinyl and features all-analogue mastering by Jeff Powell at Take Out Vinyl. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe album has been included in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, with the song “Thirteen” featured in its 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"No Label","offers":[{"title":"Gold LP","offer_id":50391576969547,"sku":"2018923","price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50391575134539,"sku":"121611","price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/1_Record_a0fec798_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726399470"},{"product_id":"stranger-things-theme-bw-halloween-theme","title":"Stranger Things Theme b\/w Halloween Theme","description":"\u003cp\u003eBacao Rhythm \u0026amp; Steel Band come in heavy with a two-sider for the Halloween season that is sure to get the masquerade ball moving. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSide A is their cover of “Stranger Things Theme” where they play the top line on steel pans with echoed out guitar chanks and sound effects that haunt the track. This is the second time they take on a popular TV theme song and both times they knocked it out of the park. They manage to keep the eerie vibe but their cover takes on a more hypnotizing tone than the original. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOn side B they take on a tried and true October 31st classic…John Carpenter’s iconic “Halloween Theme” and they do it up in a disco four on the -oor style that is guaranteed to get spins at Halloween parties from now til in‑nity. Get the ghouls and the ghosts off their seats…\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Orange 7\"","offer_id":50394416152907,"sku":"2053937","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50394416611659,"sku":"2165062","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/199437-bacao-rhythm-steel-band-stranger-things-theme-ha_23fe18f2_thumbnail_4.jpg?v=1726438867"},{"product_id":"nobody-but-you-bw-gift-of-life","title":"Nobody But You b\/w Gift Of Life","description":"\u003cp\u003eProduced by El Michels Affair. Songs only available on this 7”. Incredible two-sider. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey're baaaack….. While Brainstory is in the studio finishing their sophomore full-length, they treat us to this bombshell of a 7\" as a taste of what's to come. They teamed back up with El Michels Affair who is handling production on the whole album and everything about this is levelled up. This show-stopping plug \u0026amp; ballad two-sider is clear evidence of that. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSide A is an uplifting, dance floor burning, smash hit that shows what years of touring and backing Lady Wray have brought out of Brainstory. \"Nobody But You\" is built on drummer Eric Hagstrom's crushing back beat that lays the foundation for this inspirational feel-good banger that manages to take the uncomfortable truth that \"nobody will save you but you\" and turn it into pure blissful motivation. Then…. then, they drop a ballad on the flip side that is going to cause an entire scene to reconsider how they are doing it. The B side \"Gift Of Life\" is drop-dead gorgeous, haunting, and profound all at once. An homage to the mysteries of life and the intangible truths that the human experience is built on.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"7\"","offer_id":50395180400971,"sku":"2129575","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Brainstory_-_Nobody_But_You_7_9e5b0b2d_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726457002"},{"product_id":"dance-with-me-mercy-tree","title":"Dance With Me \/ Mercy Tree","description":"\u003cp\u003eProduced by El Michels Affair. Liam Bailey returns with a -flawless two-sider from his new album's recording sessions. The tried and true chemistry between Bailey and producer Leon Michels strikes again, taking the sound they established on Bailey's 2020 Ekundayo album and pushing it further. The A side \"Dance With Me\" is an infectious Popcorn two-stepper that nods to those incredible soul records that were coming out of Jamaica during the early Reggae days. Bailey steps into the dance with hopes of finding a new love while the El Michels Affair produced track will pull us all out on the dance fl-oor with them. The B side \"Mercy Tree\" is a powerhouse of Reggae Rebel Music. Bailey addresses the racial tensions that plague humanity and encourages everyone to step up and do their part to help foster equality. What starts out as a declaration of injustice turns into a call for action and an inspiration for hope, making this anthemic tune an instant classic.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50398633591115,"sku":"2172057","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Liam_Bailey_-_Dance_With_Me_7_b151ae02_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726497459"},{"product_id":"love-flowers-45-edit-bw-you","title":"Love and Flowers (45 Edit) b\/w You","description":"\u003cp\u003eBy popular demand, and following up on the success of Les Imprimés debut album Rêverie, we press two more absolute standouts from the LP to 45 for the DJs and collectors. For the A side we asked Morten to do an edit for the 7\" and put a little more bottom in the mix in the spirit of Larry Levan. No surprise, it worked to great effect. The \"Love \u0026amp; Flowers\" 45 Edit pushes that much harder and will move the dancefloor while the message will resonate with anyone who put too much effort into the wrong situation in their lives - \"It wasn't worth it, my new girl's perfect\" The B side \"You\" tears out of the gate with an epic crescendoing intro that sets the stage for a gorgeous sweet soul tune. A beautiful profession of love and reassurance that are as charming instrumentally as they are lyrically. Morten Martens' gift for arrangement is on full display as he takes the listener through all the tasteful changes, never going too far, never wasting a moment.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50398843732299,"sku":"2174077","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Les_Imprimes_-_Love__Flowers_7_ffbe32ba_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726498925"},{"product_id":"love-for-the-sake-of-dub-grilled","title":"Love For The Sake Of Dub \/ Grilled","description":"\u003cp\u003eTwo standouts from the forthcoming album. Steel Pan cover of Claudja Barry’s uber classic disco hit “Love For The Sake Of Love”. Bacao Rhythm \u0026amp; Steel Band, who are infamous at this point for their vast and ­awless catalog of 7”s, put yet more points on the board with this unstoppable two-sider. The A side is what is known in the DJ world as a “get out of jail free card”, meaning if the party isn’t going well, put this on and voila!!! It’s a party again. BRSB cover Claudja Barry’s mid-tempo disco classic “Love For The Sake Of Love” which they ­ip into a dubby steel pan affair and aptly retitle “Love For The Sake Of Dub”. A punching drum break starts the record and all bets are off when the melody comes in on the pans. The B side “Grilled” is a BRSB original composition that is as they say “cooking with grease”. An African funk inspired tune with two drummers that give it a wildstyle energy that is sure to burn up dances around the world.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50399087133003,"sku":"2173172","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Bacao_Rhythm__Steel_Band_-_Love_For_The_Sake_Of_Dub_7_a3acbf4a_thumbnail_409.jpg?v=1726501430"},{"product_id":"queen-of-the-barrio-goddess","title":"Queen Of The Barrio \/ Goddess","description":"\u003cp\u003eBobby Oroza returns with a two-sider of songs paying homage to the ladies of the world. Side A, \"Queen Of The Barrio\" is a proclamation of love and respect for all the ladies who grew up in the barrios around the world and the unique kind of woman that it has made them. Bobby gives flowers and crowns to the women whose spirits can only be sharpened but never broken regardless of what life deals them. This is also Bobby tipping his hat to the very first group of people to show him love as an artist. Side B, \"Goddess\" is a rougher, more uptempo tune with a snapping drum beat where Bobby again lays it out there for the ladies. Singing praises to the incomparable magic women possess and admitting he is completely enamoured by the woman he is addressing, Bobby puts his heart on his sleeve with reverence and respect.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50400417022283,"sku":"2179458","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Bobby_Oroza_-_Queen_Of_The_Barrio_7_dc3cefae_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726512503"},{"product_id":"55-1","title":"55","description":"\u003cp\u003eShrouded in mystery, hailing from Hamburg, Germany, Bacao Rhythm and Steel Band (BRSB) releases their long awaited debut \u003ci\u003e55\u003c\/i\u003e on Brooklyn's own Big Crown Records. Long time multi instrumentalist and band leader Bjorn Wagner spent a few months in Trindad and Tobago where he became fascinated with Steel Drums. Upon returning home to Germany, Bjorn set out to blend the Tropical Steel into his already sharply honed Funk, Soul, and Hip Hop sensibilities. The outcome is an updated take on a classic format, a truly unique sound. Their first two recordings were covers of The Meters \u003ci\u003eLook A-Py-Py\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eEase Back\u003c\/i\u003e which they self released on a 45. All hell broke loose when they went on to cover 50 Cent's hit PIMP taking the DJ and vinyl collecting communities by storm. Many people thought the recording was the original sample and probably still do to this day when it is played. The original Mocambo pressing sold out quickly and is now a collector's item . It was this tune that made the introduction between Bjorn and Danny Akalepse of Big Crown. They immediately hit it off and starting making plans to do a full length project with the band. Keeping in the tradition of Steel Drum records, \u003ci\u003e55\u003c\/i\u003e is a journey through re-interpolations and covers with an updated approach, pushing Steel Pan music to uncharted territory. Flawlessly bringing previously untouched genres into the steel pan cannon ranging from Underground Hip Hop tunes to staple Funk tracks and some of all that falls in between. From the smoothed out Reggae cover of John Holt's \u003ci\u003ePolice In Helicopter\u003c\/i\u003e to the DJ sure shot cover of Faith Evan's \u003ci\u003eLove Like This\u003c\/i\u003e BRSB's \u003ci\u003e55\u003c\/i\u003e is reinvigorating tunes both well known and helping to shed some light on tunes still largely undiscovered. However, some of the strongest tunes on the album are original compositions, from spaced out Disco vibes on \u003ci\u003eBeetham Highway Ride\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003ePort Of Spain Hustle\u003c\/i\u003e to the ugly face inspiring drums of \u003ci\u003eLaventille Road March.\u003c\/i\u003e Recorded to analog 8 track tape at The Mocambo Studios in Hamburg, \u003ci\u003e55\u003c\/i\u003e is a gritty, punchy journey in sound drawing on music from around the world, using production aesthetics from across both eras and genres, all coming together seamlessly. If the 45s that have already come out on Mocambo, Plane Jane, and Truth and Soul are an indication, this full length is going to be a staple to both casual listeners and Disc Jockeys alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50402391654731,"sku":"1047157","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP | x2","offer_id":50402391458123,"sku":"400711","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50402391359819,"sku":"400712","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/4e26b75a-2768-4ff3-8805-6cdedbfda50f_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726543927"},{"product_id":"i-can-remember-sitting-in-the-park","title":"I Can Remember \/ Sitting In The Park","description":"\u003cp\u003eTwo stand out tracks from the new Sunny \u0026amp; The Sunliners \u003ci\u003eMr Brown Eyed Soul Vol.2\u003c\/i\u003e compilation. Reissued for the first time on 7” here. Original copies change hands these days for upwards of $500 when they come up clean. Big Crown Records is proud to pull two very in demand tunes from Sunny's Keyloc Records catalogue and making one unstoppable reissue 45 that will put these tunes back in the mix around the globe. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe A side, \"I Can Remember\" is a lesser known cut, but a cult classic with the diehard fans. Sunny and the band are at the top of their game on this one playing it close to the James \u0026amp; Bobby Purify recording but giving it their own tone. The B Side finds Mr Brown Eyed Soul taking on the Billy Stewart classic \"Sitting In The Park\" and giving the original a run for its money. This is one of the rarer 45s from Sunny catalogue and collectors will be happy to get a chance to get their hands on it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | 7\"","offer_id":50409470263627,"sku":"1152729","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/c7f5277d-ca00-4069-99dd-5e43b880dc54_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1728371541"},{"product_id":"dirt-off-your-shoulder-i-need-somebody-to-love-tonight","title":"Dirt Off Your Shoulder \/ I Need Somebody To Love Tonight","description":"\u003cp\u003eBacao Rhythm and Steel Band, the kings of \"wait, what is this!!!\" are back with another two-sider that has a little something for everyone. Both of these songs are pulled from their forthcoming full length album Expansions. The A side is a gritty, gully, and neck snapping cover of the Timbaland produced Jay-Z club hit \u003ci\u003eDirt Off Your Shoulder\u003c\/i\u003e. The signature crushing Bacao drums start the show and the moment they start playing the top line on the steel pans all bets are off. They push the tune to new heights and places adding brass arrangements and working around the original riff never losing the groove. The way they walk the line between the original and making it their own will woo Hip Hop heads and Funk enthusiasts alike. The B side finds BRSB taking it straight to the discoteque and ushering everyone to the floor as they cover Sylvester's underground classic \u003ci\u003eI Need Somebody To Love Tonight\u003c\/i\u003e. While Bacao have laid down a few four on the floor numbers on previous albums this is the first one making its way to a 7\" and we are sure it will get their music into a new sector of DJs playboxes.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | 7\"","offer_id":50409493201227,"sku":"1121923","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/f09dc4eb-284d-4130-8b7a-79306ecabc36_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726615652"},{"product_id":"ekundayo","title":"Ekundayo","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig Crown Records present the Leon Michels produced Liam Bailey debut \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e. This album is a long time in the making, and after listening, clearly worth the wait. It didn’t take a long time to record, but it did take years for all the stars to line up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBailey, born and raised in Nottingham, England, the son of an English mother and Jamaican father got his early influences from his mom’s record collection. Bob Marley and Dillinger, Stevie Wonder and The Supremes, The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix would eventually shape the singer\/songwriter we know today. Fast-forward to 2005, Liam is in London and doing the whatever-gig-you-can-get musician hustle with hopes of landing a record deal. And it was through this time that Liam first teamed up with Leon Michels, musician \/ producer luminary, and the co-founder of Brooklyn's own Big Crown Records. Liam flew out to New York and those first sessions together produced the now classic tunes \u003ci\u003eWhen Will They Learn\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eI’m Gonna Miss You\u003c\/i\u003e which still get spins at reggae spots around the globe. That trip helped kick off what was to follow next for Liam: a slew of record releases, label deals, and working with some wildly-notable mainstream producers. Even a just-famous Amy Winehouse heard one of Liam's apartment-made, lo-fi recordings through a friend and liked what she heard. Regardless of the audio quality, Liam's particular sound shone through—all guitar, warm-rough and genuine soul. She signed him to her label shortly after.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBut, as the story can go with major labels, they already had an idea of the Liam they wanted to make, promote, and push. With the typical pay-day enticement, Liam did his best to fit into whatever shape they put him to. \"'Maybe I can make it work,' that's what you're thinking,\" Liam remembers, \"but, you quickly find out that you can't.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile Liam’s career went through a bunch of record industry twists and turns he and Michels stayed in touch and would regularly connect and collaborate. Finally, in 2019, the time was right to do a full-length album together. And this time, it would be free of any restricting major label presumptions and opinions. \"This is the record we always wanted to make,\" says Michels. The album is called\u003ci\u003e Ekundayo\u003c\/i\u003e. And the word's meaning may be all you need to know to get to the essence of this project. It means \"sorrow becomes joy\" in Yoruba, a language spoken mostly in Western Africa. On the surface, \u003ci\u003eEkundayo \u003c\/i\u003eis a weighty Reggae record, full of new and old textured riddims. But listen more in-depth, and you'll find subject matter that's more recognizable from a modern-day R\u0026amp;B record. An example of the former is the first single off the album. Sung to the most beautiful woman at the nightspot, \u003ci\u003eChampion\u003c\/i\u003e is a joyous anthem powered by a silly-thick Juno-bass throb and 808-proof drums. In short, \u003ci\u003eChampion\u003c\/i\u003e is dancehall-ready. But then there's a song like \u003ci\u003eDon't Blame NY\u003c\/i\u003e. Moody and sparse with a somber drive, you might have to resist the urge to compare it to a Frank Ocean-ish type vibe. Liam's voice is in a different but fitting element here, showing stripped-back emotion and soulful restraint. Anyone who has lived and tried to thrive in New York won't have a hard time relating to the lyrics but they may join the masses who blame the city, while Liam points the finger at himself and sings praises to The Big Apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCredit to Leon's hand, elements of Jamaican production are everywhere, peppered throughout the record. Like the pitch-perfect organ stabs that push through the authentically positive \u003ci\u003eWhite Light\u003c\/i\u003e, or the muted, percussive guitar strums that chug along in the back of \u003ci\u003eFight\u003c\/i\u003e. In the same vein of any fantastic singer\/songwriter album, \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e is a reflection of who Liam Bailey is, taking on topics and approaches he never would think of just a few years ago. Some evidence: \u003ci\u003eUgly Truth\u003c\/i\u003e is about reconnecting with his biological father, a subject he once thought would be too personal to address. The journey from conforming to major labels to this latest record has been a long one for Liam, and a bit of a struggle. But struggle may be the only way we truly grow and evolve. With a new clarity of purpose, sound, and life, Liam has found joy out of those struggles. And it's called \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Red | LP","offer_id":50409498411339,"sku":"1100284","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50409498116427,"sku":"1100280","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50409498673483,"sku":"1100283","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/19da9970-5be3-4e9e-8b99-a10e4ea829ea_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726615861"},{"product_id":"4th-chamber-snakes","title":"4th Chamber \/ Snakes","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe sound is familiar—grimy psych-soul renditions of Wu and solo member classics like “4th Chamber” and “Verbal Intercourse” are reproduced with a live-band fidelity that hews close to the spirit of the original productions while getting a little room to sprawl—but they bring a few new ideas to the plate.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | 7\"","offer_id":50416216539467,"sku":"1167418","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/6d939aaf-e8bd-4ac1-b47d-7ea60afa1785_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726698760"},{"product_id":"represent-juicy-fruit","title":"Represent \/ Juicy Fruit","description":"\u003cp\u003eBacao Rhythm and Steel Band Follow Up their 2021 \u003ci\u003eExpansions\u003c\/i\u003e album with another solid 7” offering. The A side, \u003ci\u003eRepresent,\u003c\/i\u003e is one of the stand out tracks from Expansions. BRSB cover the DJ Premier produced Nas classic taking the original and expanding the arrangement with guitar and brass riffs. Tuba chugs along the drum break while the steel pans hammer out the infamously infectious melody of the original sample making this an easy winner in Hip Hop circles and beyond. The B side is a non-album cut available on this 45 for the ­rst time ever. Bacao covers the Mtume classic \u003ci\u003eJuicy Fruit\u003c\/i\u003e made popular again when The Notorious B.I.G. sampled it for his smash hit \u003ci\u003eJuicy\u003c\/i\u003e. This is a sure head turner when people realize they are dancing along to a new version of the classic melody \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | 7\"","offer_id":50416332407115,"sku":"1146802","price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/03364b50-19b5-4bc6-bce7-a6ed7db0108f_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726701659"},{"product_id":"queen-alone","title":"Queen Alone","description":"\u003cp\u003eVirginia-born singer\/songwriter Nicole Wray has everything you'd want in a singer: an infectious Jackson-5-family-member flare, a range like Aretha's, and a church upbringing that's brought a pure, healing texture to her voice. But the struggle she's been through has made her more than a singer. Nicole Wray is an artist. When talking about Queen Alone, her first solo album in some time, Nicole explains, \"It's a reflection of my soul. It's who I am today.\" And aptly so. Nicole is writing and singing songs about her life. And yet to even start to know her soul, you have to go back to the beginning. Growing up in Portsmouth was tough at times for Nicole. However, at the age of fifteen, life opened up quickly when Missy Elliot paid a visit to Nicole's family home to audition her on the spot. Missy was there on the rumored strength and quality of her voice. Instantly blowing her away, she signed and left with Missy that night. Two years later, at age 17, she had a hit gold single off a solid debut album (Make It Hot). Suddenly she was part of a team that included late '90s R\u0026amp;B and rap royalty: Missy, Aaliyah, Ginuwine, Playa, Timbaland and Magoo. She made it, and fast. However, as rapidly as she achieved success, Nicole then found herself needing to re-make it. By late 2001, her time with Missy and company had run its course. They amicably parted ways and Nicole, once on top of the R\u0026amp;B world, was unsure of what was next. It was a very low, but important, point in her life. While neck-deep in this struggle, Damon Dash and Roc-A-Fella Records called. They signed an album deal and by 2004, in what was starting to be a pattern, just as things were looking up Roc-A-Fella suddenly (famously) split. Nicole found herself in a familiar situation. In 2013, Nicole paired up with London vocalist Terri Walker and released the album Lady. Once again, Nicole was tested. Terri parted ways with the group to pursue her own projects shortly after the album's release. Fast forward to now-the transformation from singer-for-hire to pure artist is evident in this new full-length solo release, Queen Alone. The record was written and recorded in 10 days at the legendary Diamond Mine Studios, in Queens NY with Leon Michels and Tom Brenneck handling production. Nicole says she is \"Singing out loud now-singing from the stomach.\" Back in 1998 she was coached how to sing, and told to stay in a pocket that never let her show her range, power, and passion. Today, after stutter-stepping in and out of the industry, there is a new soul and substance to her songs-all of it from her life. \"They Don't Hang Around\", tells the story of her post Roc-a-Fella days, \"Guilty\", is about her brother's incarceration, \"Make Me Over\" tells the relatable story of being broke with expensive taste, and 'Let It Go\", a perfect way to end the record, is about the simple act of letting go and moving on. Almost echoing her new record, Nicole says, \"You have to go through something for it to be real.\" She has been living with one foot in fame and the other in real life. The result is clear: she's feeling something real in her music again. And it's hard for us as listeners not to follow suit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLP - with Download.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50416872816971,"sku":"405692","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50416873046347,"sku":"405693","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/bb605f8b-910c-410b-9bdf-a2401410fa75_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726711727"},{"product_id":"champion-remix-feat-black-thought-ugly-truth-remix-feat-lee-scratch-perry","title":"Champion (Remix) feat. Black Thought \/ Ugly Truth (Remix) feat. Lee \"Scratch\" Perry","description":"\u003cp\u003eLiam Bailey follows up his \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e album with this heavy hitting remix seven featuring two absolute legends. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe A side is a remix of \u003ci\u003eChampion\u003c\/i\u003e featuring Black Thought of The Roots. Black Thought kills the first verse finding the pocket over the Leon Michels produced reggae banger designed to bust up woofers and blow out dance floors. Liam and Thought combine to sing praises to a woman worthy of all the admiration they can muster, and in doing so, they take what was already a classic to another level. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe B side is straight from the far flung corners of outer space. Producer Leon Michels strips down and revamps the album cut \u003ci\u003eUgly Truth\u003c\/i\u003e, making room for the most special of guests, the one and only, Mr. Lee \"Scratch\" Perry. The Upsetter switches between singing and talking, one minute proclaiming his powers and the next playing with the title of the original tune. Some proper Lee Perry business alongside the already unstoppable chemistry of Liam Bailey and Leon Michels...An absolute Big Crown sureshot.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | 7\"","offer_id":50417035673931,"sku":"1113532","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/2b3ec6de-6e8a-41ac-9783-c7c8543c09e3_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726714543"},{"product_id":"buck","title":"Buck","description":"\u003cp\u003eThrough a introduction from Chicano Batman’s bassist, Brainstory caught the ears of Big Crown head honchos Danny Akalepse and Leon Michels. Shortly thereafter they were on their way to Queens, to record at The Legendary Diamond Mine with Michels at the helm. An instant chemistry yielded 10 songs in 10 days and now Brainstory has gifted the world with one hell of an introduction to all things Buck. Highlights include the sublime slow burner, \u003ci\u003eDead End\u003c\/i\u003e which was the A-side to their first 45 on Big Crown that sold out in a matter of days. With Kevin’s sublime falsetto floating atop Tony and Eric’s unflappable and unmistakable backbeat, this tune has become a favorite with the ballad heads, the low-riders, and the slowie collectors. \u003ci\u003eBreathe\u003c\/i\u003e showcases another side of their sound taking a page out of the Shuggie Otis playbook and flipping the script with some stoned out west coast swag. Kev and Tony’s father, Big Tone, an accomplished performer himself, steps in on \u003ci\u003ePeter Pan\u003c\/i\u003e to sing lead vocals over a chorus of friends and family. Bassist extraordinaire, Tony, takes over lead vocal duties on\u003ci\u003e Sorry\u003c\/i\u003e, a smoked out, G Funk groove that is just waiting to be sampled. These guys have come a long way from their self released EPs and opening tours with Chicano Batman. Their musical growth is undeniable, and taking their California sunshine vibes and mixing them with Michels’ NYC aesthetic has proven to be an amazing combination. It’s a debut record that pulls influences from so many genres seamlessly it’s hard to nail down. Call it Funk, call it Rock, call it Soul, but over here at Big Crown HQ, they've decided to call it Buck.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Clear | LP","offer_id":50417061757259,"sku":"1073841","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Black | LP","offer_id":50417061953867,"sku":"1073840","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50417062117707,"sku":"1073838","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/3328dade-5e6d-4081-a9ed-c1120003f4a9_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726715420"},{"product_id":"get-on-the-otherside-instrumentals","title":"Get On The Otherside - Instrumentals","description":"\u003cp\u003eBobby Oroza and Cold Diamond \u0026amp; Mink treat us to the instrumental version of their latest album \u003ci\u003eGet On The Otherside\u003c\/i\u003e. Bobby Oroza put his desire for the profound on wax with his sophomore album \u003ci\u003eGet On The Otherside\u003c\/i\u003e. Musically, he updated the formula we were introduced to on the first record. But lyrically, songs are bravely rooted in the more complicated, ubiquitous inner tangles of life like self-examination and coming to terms with the vastness of the human experience. This limited edition pressing is a chance to enjoy the musicianship and production prowess of the crew without the lyrics giving it a whole other level if vibe to take in. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Green | LP","offer_id":50417156948299,"sku":"1169826","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/ff0ccaa4-2263-4fcd-9ce7-96f44273f7f1_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726719254"},{"product_id":"friendship-2","title":"Friendship","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eFriendship\u003c\/i\u003e is a six song 12\" EP recorded during the Education \u0026amp; Recreation sessions that stands as \"a humble monument to the most crucial principle of our band: that the love we share for one another is, at all times, the most important thing\". Surprise Chef holed up for a marathon of a recording session and laid down more tracks than would fit on an album. Here now, we dig in the vault from those sessions and share some absolute gems.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Blue 12\"","offer_id":50420589887819,"sku":"2023000","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50420591853899,"sku":"2023002","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Surprise_Chef_-_Friendship__6b45265a_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726753191"},{"product_id":"1-record","title":"#1 Record","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig Star can be ranked alongside the Velvet Underground and the Sex Pistols as one of the major inspirations for the indie and alternative rock movements. The group's first two albums, have influenced everyone from R.E.M. to Teenage Fanclub to the Replacements to Nirvana. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTheir debut, \u003ci\u003e#1 Record\u003c\/i\u003e, combined the melodiousness and perfectly arranged feel of the mid-period Beatles with the raw rock kick of the early Kinks and the jangly country-rock beauty of the Byrds. \u003ci\u003eFeel, Don't Lie to Me\u003c\/i\u003e, and \u003ci\u003eWhen My Baby's Beside Me\u003c\/i\u003e feature stinging guitar licks, punchy rhythms, and hooks galore, and sound like someone discovering rock and roll for the first time. Alex Chilton's \u003ci\u003eGive Me Another Chance\u003c\/i\u003e and Chris Bell's \u003ci\u003eTry Again\u003c\/i\u003e, on the other hand, are acoustic ballads with exquisitely beautiful, layered harmonies. Chilton's \u003ci\u003e13\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eThe Ballad of El Goodo\u003c\/i\u003e are bright, unforgettable paeans to innocence.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Craft Recordings","offers":[{"title":"LP - Purple","offer_id":50424346739019,"sku":"1111726","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50424347001163,"sku":"327515","price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Blue Jay","offer_id":50424347328843,"sku":"2210420","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/1_Record_10c5e460_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726777505"},{"product_id":"ruby-4","title":"Ruby","description":"\u003cp\u003eMember of The Roots, Menahan Street Band, and El Michels Affair. Produced by Homer Steinweiss \u0026amp; Nick Movshon. Musical contributions from Leon Michels, Claire Cottrill, Marco Benevento, Shanny and more.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBig Crown Records is proud to present Dave Guy’s debut album \u003ci\u003eRuby\u003c\/i\u003e. Having lent his talents both on stage and in the studio to artists like Amy Winehouse, Lizzo, Pharrell, and Sharon Jones to currently playing every night on The Tonight Show as a member of The Roots, Dave steps out on his own with a jazz record that is both unique and modern. Ruby mixes his musical in­fluences with the energies of the city that raised him, capturing different moods and inviting the listener into the world as Dave Guy sees and feels it. Recorded in Queens at The Legendary Diamond Mine, the album is produced by Homer Steinweiss and Nick Movshon and features musical contributions from Leon Michels, Marco Benevento, Claire Cottrill, and more.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eRuby\u003c\/i\u003e instantly sits with the classics as an album that is fully realized and not simply a collection of songs. Lead single “7th Heaven” opens the album with an anthemic energy as Dave’s horn lines soar over thundering drums, ethereal vocals, and dancing piano. Keeping the energy high, “Footwork” is a Latin inspired number that is sure to soundtrack many a dance fl­oor from SoHo to Harlem. The synth intro of “Pinky Ring” cleanses your palate for the mood shift when the track drops. Deep bass tones underline the impeccable drumming and\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDave effortlessly finds the pocket wasting no notes as the verses and choruses trade off. The record leans into spiritual jazz vibes on “Diamond Encore” with a dark and deep almost “Axelrodish” rhythm track then picks the energy back up with the stomper “Still Standing”. “Dave Wants You” has a bop all its own with an unorthodox drum pattern that Dave anchors with his trumpet hits. The otherworldly arrangement of “Drony Boy” puts the production on a pedestal. The first intro almost serves as an intermission on the album while the second\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eintro sets up the neck snapping track that is about to drop. A menacing guitar signals the builds and the whole thing is juxtaposed by Dave’s beautiful trumpet riffs. “Quesodillas” and “Green Door” begin the autumn of the album with their mellow \u0026amp; intimate energy and “Ruby’s Rubies”, the album’s closer is the perfect ending to the journey.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50428034089291,"sku":"2206518","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Blue LP","offer_id":50428036022603,"sku":"2206519","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Tape","offer_id":50428032057675,"sku":"2206517","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50428031271243,"sku":"2206516","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Ruby_c13001fb_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726829465"},{"product_id":"holy-hive","title":"Holy Hive","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn 2020 Brooklyn's Holy Hive introduced us all to something we didn't know we needed. Homer Steinweiss' thickly pocketed drumming paired with Paul Spring's oaty falsetto vocal produces a sound that's like a salve. It's been dubbed folk soul and Holy Hive not only expertly overlay the more apparent musical aspects of folk and soul but they also draw from the more profound: being able to pull traditions from the past and make them their own. When Homer wasn't playing drums for Lady Gaga or Adele or Bruno Mars, he'd produce Paul's solo folk records. Along with original bassist and frequent collaborator Joe Harrison, these sessions proved to be Holy Hive's foundation. And their first record, \u003ci\u003eFloat Back to You\u003c\/i\u003e, expertly combined what each musician does best: Paul's heady, reflective approach to folk with Homer's universal classic soul sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith their new record released on Big Crown, Holy Hive's beautifully simple-and-sparse folk soul sound is back but updated. With new influences and the challenge of creating and capturing music during a global pandemic, this new self-titled album, is more personal, more reflective.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeaturing musical contributions from Mary Lattimore, Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes), Anant Pradhan, Nick Movshon, Leon Michels (El Michels Affair), Shannon Wise (The Shacks), Dave Guy (The Roots), and Elliot Skinner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Pink | LP.","offer_id":50435124822347,"sku":"1126079","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Black | LP","offer_id":50435123347787,"sku":"1126080","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Pink | LP","offer_id":50435125248331,"sku":"1126081","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50435123937611,"sku":"1126078","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/3a5ddb21-0ebc-4d3d-820a-1ea05f0d60d9_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1726900139"},{"product_id":"logika-bw-true-love","title":"Logika b\/w True Love","description":"\u003cp\u003eThee Marloes give us with another killer of a two-sider while they finish recording their debut album. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe A side \"Logika\" is a laid back tune about where the head and the heart meet and how they often don't see things the same way. Natassya Sianturi's honeyed vocals float over a beautifully arranged track driven by guitar riffs, organ, and reverb drenched stick hits. They manage to put the perfect amount of paint on the canvas with the band sounding tight as ever hitting all the changes that bring in the earworm chorus that stays in your head even if you don't speak Indonesian. The B side \"True Love\" finds Thee Marloes dipping back into the soulful side of jazz but this time with a beat ballad that could soundtrack a Tarantino movie and hold court with the best of the genre. This one leans you back in your chair setting the mood for a smokey lounge affair and a strong drink. Two more pages from Thee Marloes book on a must have 45 giving a taste of what is to come on the 2024 full length. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"7\"","offer_id":50444295536971,"sku":"2047112","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Thee_Marloes_-_Logika_7_0390f9f5_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727026688"},{"product_id":"sounding-out-in-the-city","title":"Sounding Out In The City","description":"\u003cp\u003eOver 10 years ago, Leon Michels released his first full length record, \u003ci\u003eSounding Out The City\u003c\/i\u003e. It was Michels' first full length record under the moniker El Michels Affair. At the time, the budding retro soul scene consisted of mostly organ quartets a la The Meters and of course, Sharon Jones \u0026amp; The Dap Kings were in the early days of their ascent to world domination. Leon Michels, who was 18 when recording \u003ci\u003eSounding Out The City\u003c\/i\u003e began, had just released Thunder Chicken, the first record by his high school band The Mighty Imperials. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt the time of SOTC, Michels was just discovering early rocksteady, afrobeat, and 60's garage rock, which inevitably crept its way into the songwriting. He purchased a Tascam 388, an 80's 1\/4\" reel to reel 8 track intended for home recordings, and began recording music in a 10x10 box with no windows that also doubled as his childhood bedroom. Along with fellow Mighty Imperials Nick Movshon, Homer Steinweiss, and Sean Solomon, and Michael Leonhart, Thomas Brenneck, and some of the musicians from The Dap Kings, Michels recorded the LP over a two year period. Upon it's release, it received some rave reviews and the small deep funk community ate it up, but due to the lack lustre promotion and distribution the rest of the world was slow to catch on to the instrumental gems featured on SOTC, which Michels appropriately labelled as \"cinematic soul\". \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever, in 2005 it found it's way into the hands of the people who were organising a series of concerts for Scion that paired bands with MC's. El Michels Affair was contacted about playing one show with Raekwon The Chef of Wu Tang Clan fame. The show was such a success it led to a tour, and then to another set of concerts that featured multiple members of the Wu-Tang Clan. This eventually led to the release of El Michels Affair's second record, \"Enter the 37th Chamber\" which introduced them to a much larger audience and has been their most successful release to date. Michels has since gone on to produce and co-produce numerous records for powerhouse soul artists like Lee Fields. He shares songwriting credits with Adele, Jay-Z, Ghostface Killah, Aloe Blacc, and has played on records by Ray LaMontagne, Lana Del Rey, The Black Keys and Dr. John.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50446895579467,"sku":"2205835","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Sounding_Out_The_City_109c056e_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727065503"},{"product_id":"gotta-get-back-to-you-sunshine","title":"Gotta Get Back To You \/ Sunshine","description":"\u003cp\u003eTaken from Nick Corbin’s debut LP \u003ci\u003eSweet Escape, Gotta Get Back To You\u003c\/i\u003e is a stunning slice of sun-drenched disco with an anthemic, horn-heavy chorus sure to blast away any lockdown cobwebs. The single on limited edition Ice Blue 12” vinyl. The B-side features a disco remix of Philly-style ballad \u003ci\u003eSunshine In\u003c\/i\u003e, which is given a superb makeover by legendary DJ, producer and percussionist, Smoove and also features talented bass player Neil Harland (Smoove and Turrell).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big A C Records","offers":[{"title":"Blue | 12\"","offer_id":50447613591883,"sku":"1099137","price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/40b86401-14c6-4ad7-a301-8c150e2c7666_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727080153"},{"product_id":"glorious-game","title":"Glorious Game","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn album of Black Thought rhyming over El Michels Affair tracks. Features Brainstory, KIRBY, and Son Little. When Leon Michels and El Michels Affair released their ­first record, \u003ci\u003eSounding Out The City\u003c\/i\u003e, in 2005, it was hard to guess what was next for Michels and his then-introduced, now-patented “cinematic soul” sound. Now, four EMA studio albums and scores of tribute and remix projects later all while producing for some of the biggest names in the industry Michels has trademarked his sound, with each project taking audiences somewhere new and pushing the boundaries of what he is known for. The man is a river, not a lake and this time he takes his golden touch into the realm of hip-hop laying down a musical bed for one of the greatest to ever rhyme into a microphone: Black Thought of The Roots crew. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMichels and Black Thought have been in each other's orbit for a while now. The two fi­rst met in the 2000s when Thought was fi­rst getting familiar with the contemporary soul scene. \"Out of that whole world, Menahan Street Band was probably my favourite,\" recalling the funk and soul group Michels was a founding member of back in 2007. Fast forward a few years and musicians from that collective Dave Guy on trumpet and Ian Hendrickson-Smith on sax are now full time players with The Roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBeing that Black Thought is the co-founder and emcee for, hands down, the best live-band group in hip-hop. Michels took a decidedly different approach to this project and instead of sending recorded tracks of live compositions, he pulled out the sampler and sampled himself and some records from his collection. \"I'm a big fan of soul music,\" as if Michels has to remind us. \"And part of hip-hop's appeal to me has always been the sample-based production\". The result is an organic feel of loop-based tracks that breathe and fluctuate enough for Black Thought to ‑ex on. \"What I write about is determined by the equation of the producer's energy and my energy,\" Black Thought says. \"It's about where we meet.\" \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"LP - Black","offer_id":50449413898571,"sku":"2006758","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP - Sky High","offer_id":50449414029643,"sku":"2006759","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Tape","offer_id":50449413767499,"sku":"2006757","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50449413243211,"sku":"2006756","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Glorious_Game_ece73921_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727102779"},{"product_id":"live-in-memphis-1","title":"Live in Memphis","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe gig poster read: \"Big Star in their Farewqell US Performance.\" Luckily, this iconic Memphis band's homecoming show was nothing of the kind. As Jody Stephens points out in his liner notes, \"We played Los Angeles three days later and went on to play together for another 16 years. No one ever said anything about the poster.\" Omnivore Recordings is proud to present Big Star's only known professionally filmed show in its entirety. Live In Memphis chronicles that October 29, 1994 performance on CD, 2-LP (with download card), and DVD. Contains Big Star classics like 'Thank You Friends,' 'September Gurls,' and 'The Ballad Of El Goodo,' Chris Bell's 'I Am The Cosmos,' and covers of T.Rex, The Kinks, Todd Rundgren and more, performed by Big Star: Alex Chilton, Jody Stephens, and Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow from The Posies. Also included are notes from filmmaker Danny Graflund, Ardent Studios' John Fry, Jody Stephens, Jon Auer, and Ken Stringfellow in the CD, LP, and DVD packaging. For the first time, you will not only be able to hear this legendary performance, but see it, as well. You will be in the New Daisy Theatre experiencing Big Star Live In Memphis!LP - Per Omnivore tradition, the first pressing of the LP is 1,000 Copies on Red vinyl, with black to follow. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Omnivore","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50451459866955,"sku":"382493","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/ef7fbcf2-3401-428f-a5ab-42f751b17f97_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727126308"},{"product_id":"velodrome-spring-s-theme","title":"Velodrome \/ Spring's Theme","description":"\u003cp\u003eHailing from Melbourne, Australia, they are something of a funky blend of jazz, hip hop, and soul with a shade of David Axelrod which all comes out their own. These two tunes on this 45 are a taste of what is to come. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe A side \"Velodrome\" starts out with a heavy drum break and an earworm synth line guaranteed to have you humming it long after the song is over. The intro gives way to beautiful and tasteful arrangements showing their music prowess as well as their ear for restraint. The B side \"Spring's Theme\" is a gorgeous and moody instrumental ballad that arrangements that link together like chapters in a book taking the listener through a myriad of energies that all fit together to make this a quick favourite here at HQ.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | 7\"","offer_id":50452756398411,"sku":"1151884","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/b8865479-b90d-4697-8596-31ab2d2883c1_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727163061"},{"product_id":"through-it-all-under-the-sun","title":"Through It All \/ Under The Sun","description":"\u003cp\u003eLady Wray releases an instant classic two-sider with two certified bangers from her forthcoming album \u003ci\u003ePiece Of Me.\u003c\/i\u003e Side A is the in your face, head nodding, Through It All\". A tune that rips out of the speaker from the first snare crack with Nicole's pitched up and infectious chorus. The tried and true chemistry of Lady Wray and producer Leon Michels is on full display here as they push the envelope of current R\u0026amp;B and Soul making a stark declaration of why they are out in front of the pack of any of their peers. Nicole sings a song about dedication through the ups and downs on a track that has so much energy it is sure to move crowds around the globe. Side B, Under The Sun is a feel good homage to the sun and summertime. Lady Wray encapsulates all things good and lovely about warm weather and where it puts our minds. The infectious good vibes of the tune will change your attitude and have you turning the volume knob up while the earworm choruses will stay on the tip of your tongue long after the song ends.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"7\"","offer_id":50453205123403,"sku":"1135259","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/7432fa9c-1651-4e19-943b-c37523dd491e_thumbnail_4096.png?v=1727169558"},{"product_id":"this-love","title":"This Love","description":"\u003cp\u003eDebut full length from Bobby Oroza, \u003ci\u003eThis Love\u003c\/i\u003e. Bobby pushes the borders of soul and rock balladry and creates a sound distinctly his own. Cold Diamond and Mink provide a pitch perfect collection of lo-fi, low-key classics on which Bobby's smokey tenor floats atop, breaking hearts on some tunes and melting them on others. Maintaining the band's signature dark and intimate aesthetic, they run the gamut of tempos, breaking hearts on some tunes and mending them on others. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe group's second single \u003ci\u003eYour Love Is Too Cold\u003c\/i\u003e is a stomper that blends the groovy soul drumming of early Motown records with guitar that could have been lifted from a James Bond score and has been getting heavy spins across the globe at soul parties and on radio shows. Bobby takes care of the dancers with a few up numbers, ranging from the northern soul nods on \u003ci\u003eLonely Girl\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eFalling in Love\u003c\/i\u003e to the 70s jazz funk nod on \u003ci\u003eKeep On Believing\u003c\/i\u003e. However, the ballad lovers with the uncontrollable urge to two-step late into the night will be the real winners with\u003ci\u003e This Love.\u003c\/i\u003e Bobby thrives on the bed of dark and intimate sensuality found on tracks like \u003ci\u003eAlone Again, Down On My Knees\u003c\/i\u003e, and \u003ci\u003eDeja Vu\u003c\/i\u003e. The world is about bear witness, and surely be taken back by this strange and unique shade of Soul born in Finland but made for the whole world to enjoy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50453220393291,"sku":"1060937","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/e9c52b66-2931-4995-b21a-d9807d0bb9af_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727169806"},{"product_id":"ekundayo-inversions","title":"Ekundayo Inversions","description":"\u003cp\u003eEl Michels Affair reimaginging Liam’s \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e Album. Produced by Leon Michels. Also includes three unreleased vocal tracks from the Ekundayo sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere has always been a Reggae in­uence in the music of El Michels Affair. From their cover of “Hung Up On My Baby” done in a Reggae style, to the general sound and approach that permeates Leon’s production style. While recording Bailey’s 2020 \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e album, they did some straight forward reggae tunes inspired by different eras alongside some modern R\u0026amp;B tracks that would be more comfortably next to Frank Ocean than Jacob Miller. It is this same notion that old and new can live so comfortably together that birthed the idea of \u003ci\u003eEkundayo Inversions\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTraditional dub came out of reggae in the late 60s and early 70s when pioneers like King Tubby and Lee Perry started taking the multi track recordings of songs and running them back through the board adding effects and additional instrumentation. These recordings are called “dubs” or “versions” and are typically instrumentals with ­ourishes of vocals from the original tracks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEl Michels decided to use the blueprints left behind and make something using the in­uences of today. He wound up straying so far from the traditional format that it didn’t seem right to use the word ‘Dub’, hence Ekundayo Inversions. All the songs are tied together by WhatsApp messages between Leon and Liam that perfectly narrate the story of this record and their working relationship.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the highlights on \u003ci\u003eEkundayo Inversions\u003c\/i\u003e is a guest appearance from the legendary Lee “Scratch” Perry on the “Ugly Truth” version. L$P switches between singing and talking, proclaiming his powers one minute and playing with the track’s title the next. On “Awkward take. 2” Leon takes one of the most experimental songs from \u003ci\u003eEkundayo\u003c\/i\u003e and actually straightens it out. A track that once seemed to be ­oating in space has now been anchored by the addition of drums and bass. “Faded”, a version of “Paper Tiger”, is given the full EMA treatment with the addition of emotive horns over an uncomfortably sparse rhythm track peppered with Liam’s voice drenched in delay and echo.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Champions” features a verse from Black Thought of The Roots and halfway through, El Michels sends the rhythm section 50 years back. At the end of the day, \u003ci\u003eEkundayo Inversions\u003c\/i\u003e is a testament to how strong the original songs are. Whether they’re in a R\u0026amp;B style, reggae style, stripped down to their bare bones, or loaded with production, the songs will move you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Black | LP","offer_id":50457413419339,"sku":"1121230","price":21.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Clear | LP","offer_id":50457415188811,"sku":"1121232","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Red | LP","offer_id":50457414435147,"sku":"1121231","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50457418727755,"sku":"1121229","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/c0cfb5a7-ad1f-4ee1-9b2a-f3561168d4ed_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727205233"},{"product_id":"crown-jewels-vol-2","title":"Crown Jewels Vol 2","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig Crown is proud to present the next volume of \u003ci\u003eCrown Jewels\u003c\/i\u003e, their various artists compilation series that highlights some of the most popular tunes next to some of the more obscure.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEvery artist on Big Crown stands on their own two feet with ease, but together, something else becomes apparent. If you discover one artist on the roster and it brings you to the label, it's very likely you will ­and more that you enjoy. The Crown Jewels comps are just that, a chance to get a listen to the whole roster in one place.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSIDE A:\u003cbr\u003e1. Piece Of Me - Lady Wray\u003cbr\u003e2. Follow Me - The Shacks\u003cbr\u003e3. Xxplosive - Bacao Rhythm and Steel Band\u003cbr\u003e4. Murkit Gem - El Michels Affair feat. Piya Malik\u003cbr\u003e5. Float Back To You - Holy Hive\u003cbr\u003e6. Grow Forever - Lizette and Quevin\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSIDE B:\u003cbr\u003e1. Enfant - El Michels Affair featuring The Shacks\u003cbr\u003e2. Fight - Liam Bailey\u003cbr\u003e3. Tonight You Might - Synthia featuring Lady Wray\u003cbr\u003e4. Reasons - El Michels Affair featuring Bobby Oroza\u003cbr\u003e5. Then We’ll Wave - Paul and The Tall Trees\u003cbr\u003e6. Bye Bye - Brainstory\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Gold | LP","offer_id":50459071054155,"sku":"1141486","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/ad438bc4-b99c-4ec6-be7c-9b1b02397d8f_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727216953"},{"product_id":"haze","title":"Haze","description":"\u003cp\u003eRough Trade Album of the Month: April 2018\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the best debut albums of 2018. Fronted by 19-year-old singer \/ bassist Shannon Wise and 21-year-old guitarist \/ producer Max Shrager, The Shacks are already well on their way to becoming one of the year's big breakouts, and their remarkable debut album, \u003ci\u003eHaze\u003c\/i\u003e, solidifies their status as a band with ability to deliver on the well-deserved buzz.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eProduced together by Shrager and Big Crown co-founder Leon Michels (who's played with Bradley, Sharon Jones, and Fields in addition to working with The Arcs, Lana Del Rey, and countless others), the album was recorded in bits and pieces between Shrager's basement and Michels' Diamond Mine studio, which the Observer dubbed \"the Shangri La of Soul.\" \u003ci\u003eHaze\u003c\/i\u003e opens with the title track, which is, appropriately enough, the first song Shrager and Wise ever wrote together. It's a spare, smoky tune that shimmers and sparkles as it shifts in and out of focus, and it's an ideal gateway into the immersive world of The Shacks. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 13 songs featured on \u003ci\u003eHaze\u003c\/i\u003e plays out like the soundtrack to some long lost 16mm film, beckoning you into their grainy, saturated world of analog beauty. In the short time that they've been together, The Shacks have already made an impressive mark. Their hypnotic cover of Ray Davies' \u003ci\u003eThis Strange Effect\u003c\/i\u003e soundtracked a global iPhone commercial, one which actually stars Wise herself, and their self-titled EP earned the band dates with St. Paul and The Broken Bones, Chicano Batman, and their Big Crown Records label mates Lee Fields and The Expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e3CD - Rough Trade Exclusive Version. CD one is the album. On the second CD is The Shacks Self-Titled EP, Selections Previously Issued Only On 7\" Vinyl And Complete Instrumentals From \u003ci\u003eHaze\u003c\/i\u003e. And on CD three is the Rough Trade exclusive bonus 9 track CD - \u003ci\u003eThe Shacks EP Instrumentals. \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLP+ - Rough Trade Exclusive. 1000 Copies only on Coke Clear Vinyl with Download (featuring just the main album) and Rough Trade Bonus CD.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLP - Black Vinyl with Download (featuring just the main album) and Rough Trade Bonus CD.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"CD | x3","offer_id":50460744188235,"sku":"1027289","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50460743663947,"sku":"1027299","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/460bc877-5fd0-405e-a663-2c0a508498b0_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727237532"},{"product_id":"a-pocketful-of-dreams-special-edition","title":"A Pocketful Of Dreams Special Edition","description":"\u003cp\u003eAnother essential release for pop aficionados, PWL boy band \u003cstrong\u003eBig Fun\u003c\/strong\u003e's 1990 debut album receives the Special Edition treatment. Featuring four classic Stock Aitken Waterman-produced hit singles – the Jacksons cover \"\u003cem\u003eBlame It On The Boogie\u003c\/em\u003e\", \"\u003cem\u003eCan’t Shake The Feeling\u003c\/em\u003e\", \"\u003cem\u003eHandful Of Promises\u003c\/em\u003e\" and \"\u003cem\u003eHey There Lonely Girl\u003c\/em\u003e\" – the album reached #7 on its original release, going gold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDigitally re-mastered direct from the original PWL studio tapes, this Special Edition features seven exclusive bonus tracks - including a superb cover version of the Carole King classic \"\u003cem\u003eYou’ve Got A Friend\u003c\/em\u003e\", recorded with fellow PWL star Sonia but unreleased until now, together with the SAW-penned 1990 hit of the same title, and a host of sought-after 12″ mixes include Big Fun’s very first PWL recording, another King cover, \"\u003cem\u003eI Feel The Earth Move\u003c\/em\u003e\" - planned as a 1989 single, it became a major club hit but was ultimately withdrawn in favour of \"\u003cem\u003eBlame It On The Boogie\u003c\/em\u003e\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe extensive CD booklet includes full lyrics, additional photos and discography, brand new sleeve notes and commentary from Big Fun's Phil Creswick.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cherry Pop","offers":[{"title":"CD","offer_id":50460809724235,"sku":"1119735","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/9bf616f3-7339-417a-9600-0225c19127b9_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727238584"},{"product_id":"adult-themes","title":"Adult Themes","description":"\u003cp\u003eProduced by Leon Michels. First album of original compositions since 2005. Features Shannon Wise of The Shacks on\u003ci\u003e Enfant. Adult Themes is \u003c\/i\u003ethe latest full length offering from El Michels Affair. This album takes the band’s “Cinematic Soul” aesthetic literally and sends the listener on a journey through a whirlwind of moods and energies. With their 2005 debut album Sounding Out The City, EMA spearheaded an instrumental funk \/ soul movement that inspired a slew of bands and even lead to the creation of a few independent record labels. El Michels has since lent his signature sound to artists from Adele to Dr John,\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLana Del Rey to Aloe Blacc, and a who’s who list of others. In 2016 he co-founded Big Crown Records and has since produced the lion’s share of its output. A short stint as the touring band for Wu Tang Clan in 2007 led to the cult classics\u003ci\u003e Enter The 37th Chamber \u003c\/i\u003e(2009) and\u003ci\u003e Return To The 37th Chamber \u003c\/i\u003e(2017). \u003ci\u003eAdult Themes\u003c\/i\u003e marks the long awaited, highly anticipated return to an album of original compositions from El Michels Affair.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn 2017 in between producing, playing, and recording on other artists’ records Leon Michels began creating compilations of short interludes intended to be sampled by hip hop producers. Some of these wound up becoming songs by Jay Z and Beyonce, Travis Scott, and Don Toliver. These minute-long snippets were inspired by the dense moody work of ‘60s composers like David Axelrod, and Francois de Roubaix, as well as Moondog’s brand of classical jazz. Michels was having so much fun creating these instrumental \/ orchestral nuggets that he decided to expand on some of the ideas and create what would become the soundtrack for a movie that has yet to be made, an imaginary film entitled \u003ci\u003eAdult Themes\u003c\/i\u003e. The album plays like the colours on an artists pallet. Songs like \u003ci\u003eRubix\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eVilla \u003c\/i\u003eare densely orchestrated with the hard-hitting drums that El Michels\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAffair is known for. On \u003ci\u003eLife of Pablo\u003c\/i\u003e, Leon’s son makes his first appearance on record and intros a song with an epic arrangement and a moving mood.\u003ci\u003e Hipps\u003c\/i\u003e is a drum heavy ballad that could’ve easily fit on EMA’s debut record, \u003ci\u003eSounding Out the City\u003c\/i\u003e. Other compositions like \u003ci\u003eThe Difference\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eKill The Lights\u003c\/i\u003e are bare, melodic mood pieces with sparse drums and sophisticated chord movement. All of these tunes come together to make perfect backgrounds for dialogue and action. One of the beautiful things about instrumental music is that the listener can decide what the narrative is. With \u003ci\u003eAdult Themes\u003c\/i\u003e El Michels Affair has created a “choose your own adventure” in musical form.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"White | LP","offer_id":50469794709835,"sku":"1088508","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black | LP","offer_id":50469795660107,"sku":"1088507","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50469793726795,"sku":"1088505","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/f563330f-8bd7-4155-9395-29f02c57f005_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727367745"},{"product_id":"complete-third-volume-3","title":"Complete Third: Volume 3","description":"\u003cp\u003eVol. 3 of the Complete Third CD boxed set on 2 LPs Contains download card Special etched side 4\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Omnivore","offers":[{"title":"LP","offer_id":50478860927307,"sku":"2017335","price":28.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/test_e1a70375_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727493084"},{"product_id":"special-night","title":"Special Night","description":"\u003cp\u003eProduced by Leon Michels and Thomas Brenneck, and brilliantly performed by the Expressions, \u003ci\u003eSpecial Night\u003c\/i\u003e was written, recorded, mixed, and mastered entirely to tape in three weeks at the legendary Diamond Mine Studios in Queens, NY. A sense of urgency, equal parts fun and inspiration, and a decent amount of beer and Jack Daniels were the driving forces during the sessions that produced Lee Fields and The Expressions latest offering. \u003ci\u003eSpecial Night\u003c\/i\u003e is also the first record in the Expressions catalogue in which every song was written jointly by Lee Fields and The Expressions. Whether tackling a tune about love lost, found, or broader topics like the state of humanity, Lee has a very unique and honest perspective that is on display with each unforgettable performance. Also, The Expressions have never been sharper, they, along with Lee, have created a collection of music on \u003ci\u003eSpecial Night\u003c\/i\u003e which holds court with pretty much any soul music that came before it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLP - With Download.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e2CD - Deluxe Double CD Version with an instrumental version of the album.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Red | LP","offer_id":50479345008971,"sku":"1130726","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD | x2","offer_id":50479196864843,"sku":"1000963","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50479196471627,"sku":"1000964","price":23.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/7a6b40b3-0085-4256-a62c-f33bdcac71c4_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727503848"},{"product_id":"sounds-good","title":"Sounds Good","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig Crown Records is proud to present Brainstory’s sophomore full-length album \u003ci\u003eSounds Good\u003c\/i\u003e, produced by El Michels Affair.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBased in L.A. but hailing from the Inland Empire's own Rialto, California, two-thirds of Brainstory, Kevin and Tony Martin are brothers by blood, while Eric Hagstrom is a brother through their music and long term friendship. Since they started the band they have constantly faced situations that forced them to rise to the occasion. They got signed to Big Crown Records, they stepped up their game. COVID happened, they learned to record themselves. They started touring a ton sharing the stage with the likes of Lady Wray and they got their live show super tight. All of this time spent grinding and growing has certainly paid off. The path to take their art to the next level is clearer than ever, and once again, they are here for it. If there is one thing that is abundantly clear on Sounds Good, it’s that Brainstory has leveled up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePart of this evolution is undoubtedly attributed to having access to and working constantly in their own studio in Long Beach. Another major factor is that their brotherhood has expanded. \"I've been playing music with my brother all my life and now with Eric for a long time,\" Tony tells us. \"Leon, though, is like another brother I've just met.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLeon Michels, Big Crown's co-owner, produced this record and applied his unmistakable golden touch in crucial ways. The other member of the extended Brainstory brotherhood whose contributions were essential to the album, is studio engineer legend Jens Jungkurth who controls the tones and textures of the music. \"That's what you're hearing, our connection, the fun moments, the little details,\" Kevin describes. \"This record isn't half what it is without them—and it made us want to match that effort,\" and match that effort they did. Album opener \"Nobody But You\" is an uplifting, dance ­oor burner, that shows off a new side of Brainstory's range. Drummer Eric Hagstrom’s crushing back beat lays the foundation for an inspirational feel good banger that manages to take the uncomfortable truth that “nobody will save you but you” and turn it into pure blissful motivation. \"Peach Optimo\" is a laid back half time tune that blends the bounce of Down South Hip-Hop with California G funk and Jazz. They once again show off their B said ballad talents with \"Gift Of Life\" but this time taking the genre to a new place with lyrics about existentialism and a track that is drop dead gorgeous, haunting, and profound all at once. \"NyNy\" is an homage to Kev and Tony's recently deceased grandfather while \"Too Yung\" is a show stopping, deeply personal, stripped down number about being introduced to\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ealcohol at a young age. They put another hit on the boards with \"Hanging On,\" a Latin \/ Psychedelic Soul inspired banger featuring Claire Cottrill on background vocals while \"XFaded” addresses the all too common vicious cycle of smoking and drinking too much over a trippy shuf­e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"It's been four years since our last full length record, and with everything that's happened since, it's like we've been catching up to ourselves.\" That's one way to describe change: catching up to oneself. Each member of Brainstory has gone through shifts, both personally and musically, and all of that threads through Sounds Good. It's easy to say that the music industry can be short on lasting, genuine relationships. However, for Brainstory, from day one it's been about standing by each other, for each other. Their friendship started the group. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black LP","offer_id":50479253193035,"sku":"2177148","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Green LP","offer_id":50479253487947,"sku":"2177149","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Tape","offer_id":50479252832587,"sku":"2177147","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50479252275531,"sku":"2177142","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/Sounds_Good_9929edb6_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727505158"},{"product_id":"piece-of-me","title":"Piece of Me","description":"\u003cp\u003eBig Crown Records is proud to present \u003ci\u003ePiece of Me\u003c\/i\u003e, the sophomore full length offering from Lady Wray. This is something of a homecoming for Nicole. Where her 2016 solo debut \u003ci\u003eQueen Alone \u003c\/i\u003eleaned more towards soul and R\u0026amp;B with tinges of hip-hop, this record changes the mixture. It's still R\u0026amp;B with the textures of analogue soul, but there is a heavy hip hop influence that brings the sum of Nicole's career together in a new sound that will define her future. Boom-bap drums and chunky bass lines are front-and-center creating a perfect head-nodding backdrop for Lady Wray to take on the good, the bad, the difficult, and the joyful on her most personal collection of songs to date. Long time collaborator and producer Leon Michels keeps the musical backing restrained and expertly executed, setting up Lady Wray for the full spotlight and setting the tone for the rest of the album.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith this in mind, when talking about this record, for Lady Wray, it's about a larger purpose. \"My goal is always to help and to heal people with singing,\" she explains. \"Part of that is to try and bring back real music, real singing, so people can feel something again.\" Now, she's not dissing anyone here, to be clear. It's just that Lady Wray cannot sing without tapping into something deeper, searching for that shared compassion between all of us. Perhaps it comes from her church upbringing, or maybe from her years of trials and tribulations in the music industry. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith past albums like the Lady project and Queen Alone, it's hard to not acknowledge that Lady Wray plus Leon Michels production equals magic. But this magic is also coming from the fact that Lady Wray is now squarely herself, calling her shots, and singing to help heal first—everything else is secondary. \"It's a beautiful thing I've always wanted in my career, and now I have it,\" Lady Wray says. \"They encourage me to be me all day long.\" This is Lady Wray at her finest, and she's giving us all a piece of where she's at these days.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown","offers":[{"title":"Purple | LP","offer_id":50479253258571,"sku":"1135197","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Green LP","offer_id":50479254110539,"sku":"1135694","price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"LP","offer_id":50479252930891,"sku":"1135693","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"CD","offer_id":50479253520715,"sku":"1135692","price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/06a86305-3252-40a2-b528-48475e8e1a21_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727505170"},{"product_id":"hollow-way-im-still-somehow","title":"Hollow Way \/ I'm Still Somehow","description":"\u003cp\u003eFollowing up on the incredible success of El Michels \u0026amp; Black Thought's Glorious Game album the duo treat us to another 7\" with two of the standouts from the album. The A Side \"Hollow Way\" is a testament to the chemistry between Leon \u0026amp; Thought. EMA uses his signature sound with a new approach pulling records from his collection and sampling them. The result is a gritty lofi sonic backdrop that Black Thought flexes his lyrical brilliance on weaving a tune about guns and gun violence. The beat change at the end drives the point home, leaving any samples behind and lets the band remind people why they are one of the most in demand acts out there today. The B side \"I'm Still Somehow\" is a deeply introspective tune that Thought rhymes about vulnerability and overcoming challenges with heavy lines like \"a happy black boy is like an alien\" and \"one crown, who was run down, somehow still standing tall\". Michels again takes his ear and sensibility to the sampler, chopping up an old 45 that makes the perfect backdrop for this powerful and timeless song.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Big Crown Records","offers":[{"title":"Black 7\"","offer_id":50483013943627,"sku":"2030007","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/El_Michels_Affair__Black_Thought_-_Hollow_Way_7_edb7ce89_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727559781"},{"product_id":"complete-columbia-live-at-university-of-missouri","title":"Complete Columbia - Live at University of Missouri","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe mythic, yet, short lived Memphis band comprised of Alex Chilton, Chris Bell, Andy Hummel, and Jody Stephens named Big Star, resides in the highest realms of power pop accolades for their three - at the time, overlooked- studio albums recorded between 1972-1974. Twenty years after their unceremonious dissolution, drummer Stephens recruited Posies' Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow and a wary Alex Chilton to reform Big Star at the request of two fanatical student DJs from University of Missouri. This two LP Record Store Day gatefold package finally captures that full historic set for the first time on a commercial release, mastered at high resolution from the original master tapes, and adding five previously unreleased performances to it's original release in 1993 and now accurately re-titled, Complete Columbia: Live at University of Missouri 4\/25\/93.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Legacy","offers":[{"title":"Black LPx2","offer_id":50483227722059,"sku":"400617","price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/files\/93_edcb822d_thumbnail_4096.jpg?v=1727563054"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0867\/1120\/6219\/collections\/test_f145011e_thumbnail_4096_4edac755-3681-4d23-912d-e89cb3acf29d.jpg?v=1725974105","url":"https:\/\/shop.roughtrade.com\/collections\/big-crown.oembed","provider":"Rough Trade","version":"1.0","type":"link"}