Last week you got the writer’s albums of the year, this week it’s the photographer, Martin Ward’s turn. After a couple of weeks of drunken persuasion, threats of violence and repeated pleading texts he eventually gave me his list. He stuck it all into a text and sent it over, have a look, listen and let him know what you think. As far as I know they are in no particular order.
Black Mekon – We’ve Learned Nothing
It’s a secret, we don’t know anything at all, honest, don’t send the boys round.
Gnod – La Mort Du Sens
The best gig of the year and one of the best albums too. Paddy Shine of Gnod notes: “I think the title sums it up well because this album was coming together at a time when confusion was king for us all – still is. I think we can all relate to that. This record is a really strange beast because of the big change that happened between mixing and recording. I think the title really does sum up the vibe of ‘What the Fuck’? Maybe we should have called it that!”
Mogwai – As The Love Continues
Just put it on, turn it the hell up and absorb every single note. Wonderful
Planetary Assault Systems – Sky Scraping
‘On the new LP, Slater draws on studio material but also components recorded during the PAS live show – and he’s keen to let fans know the focus is well and truly on the dance floor with this one: Sky Scraping is a loud and unabashed celebration of the formative and familiar environments so loved by the electronic music community, the dark clubs and festivals made special by their unique ability to bring like minded people together.’
Godspeed Your Black Emperor – G-d’s Pee At State’s End
‘this record is about all of us waiting for the end.
all current forms of governance are failed.
this record is about all of us waiting for the beginning,
and is informed by the following demands=
empty the prisons
take power from the police and give it to the neighbourhoods that they terrorise.
end the forever wars and all other forms of imperialism.
tax the rich until they’re impoverished.’
The Bug – Fire
“I’m always asking – how can I ramp this up MORE? How can I get people more out of control? For me a live show should be unforgettable, should alter your DNA, or scar you for life in a good way. ‘WHAT the FUCK?’ is the reaction I want – insane is a good reaction especially at a time when there’s so much control in how people consume music and are pacified culturally”.
Black Midi – Cavalcade
Incoherent big noise from Black Midi
Rocket Records Remix Vol 1/2
Two volumes of excellent remixes of the Rocket Records Roster ‘Remixes from the post-punk royalty of IDLES, to the untouchable, experimental sounds of Tomaga – the albums also includes contributions from two of NTS Radio’s most acclaimed DJ’s, Optimo’s JD Twitch and the ‘godlike’ Cherrystones, both exploring addictive bass churning sounds.’
Farron – Venice Pavilion
‘Farron delivers a beautiful blend of electronics that straddle the lines between jungle, IDM, electro, and techno. The A-Side kicks off with rough breaks, moody Reese basses, and fast footwork rhythms that crown the EP with its very own sparkling character – modern jungle topped with dystopian pads and pressing basslines are perfectly melted into the break-fuelled ride.’
Reissues of the Year
Silverfish – Fat Axl
Ruby – Salt Peter
Yello – 40 Years
Goldie – Timeless – 25th Anniversary Edition
Single of the Year
Fontaines DC – Televised Mind – Dave Clarke Remix
