Recently Played: A Column on Vinyl Records #64

      Things tend to slow down a bit during the summer regarding new releases, but June certainly ensured a plentiful selection beforehand. Continue reading for a hearty assortment of beloved classics, fresh favorites, and hidden gems you might not have realized you needed to hear. Enjoy.

      Freshly Released:

      After fresh interpretations of The Pearlfishers and Joni Mitchell's work, the Colin Steele Quartet presents ‘The Blue Nile – Jazz Interpretations of The Blue Nile Songbook’. The cover art is stunning, featuring a rain-soaked street illuminated by streetlights and nightlife. Musically, it comprises two tracks from each of their original three albums, along with one from 2004’s ‘High’ and the title track from Paul Buchanan’s 2012 solo project, ‘Mid Air’. Steele skillfully navigates through beautifully fluid, deeply affectionate, and often empathetic conversations with the original compositions, making it a captivating listen. Bo Kondren’s mastering is rich and expansive, providing ample space within the soundstage and a full, 3D presence. While ‘Body And Soul’ and the remarkable ‘Let’s Go Out Tonight’ could be seen as standout tracks, the entire album is exceptional. Just Played evaluated a relatively quiet copy of the Optimal pressing, with only a few minor patches of slightly intrusive surface noise.

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      Some records capture your attention as soon as you see them, and The 7:45s’ ‘Spinning’ is one of those. The cover, featuring a logo inspired by vintage black and white 7” labels, works perfectly. The rest of the design hints at the Eighties, yet this album radiates a compelling vintage soul sound. The opener, ‘The Way That I Love You’, is a catchy earworm featuring vocals from Martin Connor, one of several voices delivering outstanding performances across this debut album. Writer and bassist Sam Flynn also takes the lead on ‘You’re Too Good To Me’ and ‘We Will Be Friends’. Mastering by Tim Thomas provides clarity to the high end, capturing the energetic rhythm of Motown. The GZ pressing is nearly silent and is a must-have for the summer of 2025.

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      ‘SWIGOD! Cyfrol/Vol 1’ offers a twenty-five track exploration of the remarkable artistry showcased by Libertino Records over the past nine years. This compilation is an impressive tribute to founder Gruffydd Owen’s efforts both in discovering and promoting an excellent array of Welsh talent. The album opens with Accü’s shimmering ‘Am Sêr’, followed by Sister Wives’ driving presence on ‘Wandering Along / Rwy’n Crwydro’. Across four sides, listeners will enjoy contributions from Ynys, Adwaith, Rogue Jones, Angharad, Chroma, Kidsmoke, and Silent Forum among others. For those unfamiliar, you are in for a treat as you uncover new favorite bands. This album is worth owning as a celebration of the determination of artists like Owen during challenging times. The opaque red/pink swirl vinyl is quite charming, and the GZ pressing is overall quiet after a thorough clean, aside from the run-in grooves.

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      One might wonder why the British Americana band The Wandering Hearts decided to reinterpret the entire ‘Déjà Vu’ by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, but they might respond with a simple question: why not? It is, after all, a thoroughly delightful listen characterized by delicate production and beautiful vocals. The songs are recognizable, yet this isn't merely a tribute album; it avoids trying to replicate the originals. Instead, it offers a unique interpretation of a collection of songs. ‘Teach Your Children’ and ‘Helpless’ exemplify what to expect, while the vinyl mastering by Dave Turner at Curve Pusher is appropriately spacious for Michael Rault’s impressive production. The neatly designed artwork houses a quiet Optimal pressing. This release is one of those delightful surprises you may not have realized you needed in your life.

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      ‘54321 The Countdown Records Story 1985-88’ is a new Acid Jazz compilation that fulfills its promise. Founded by Maxine Conroy, Terry Rawlings, and AJ leader Eddie Piller, the label catered to the mid-Eighties Mod revival scene. This collection of thirteen standout tracks highlights several prominent names from that era, including Makin’ Time, whose spirited rendition of Costello’s ‘Pump It Up’ opens the album, along with contributions from The Kick and The Prisoners. On side two, The Combine’s ‘Dreams Come True’ is another highlight. Overall, it serves as an insightful reflection on the indie jangle that emerged as the decade concluded. While some source tracks may sound a bit brittle, Dean Rutland has crafted a well-ordered playlist for this relatively quiet GZ pressing, complemented by a neat sleeve.

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      Before delving into Das Koolies’ second album, ‘Pando’, let’s address the substantial, oddly hairy elephant in the room. While it doesn't quite

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