Who is Colorboys?

Colorboys designs a refreshing Hip-Hop through different chapters of the genre, with a certain penchant for Jazz and Electronic music.

A band in the flesh for music just as organic. With the first EP ‘Colorboys Vol.1’ in 2019, they come back today with their first studio album called ‘Colorboys Vol.2’ with golden collaborations (Shogonodo, Suuna, Yutaka Hirasaka, Tohaj, and Pehoz).

Colorboys is also a boiling groove that does not hesitate to peck in the repertoire of elders (Bill Evans, Miles Davis), seniors (Madvillainy, Slum Village, The Neptunes), and contemporaries (The Internet, THEESatisfaction) to structure a refreshing and sensual Hip-Hop.

HP / FACEBOOK / TWITTER / INSTAGRAM / YOUTUBE

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

Piñata / Freddie Gibbs & Madlib

97SPECIAL: It was the “Piñata” album, an amazing project! I discovered Freddie Gibbs in 2014 when his track ‘Still Livin’ was released, included in the GTA V soundtrack.

Antichrist Superstar / Marilyn Manson

STUCKINWAVEFORMS: I believe it is “Antichrist Superstar”. I was 6 years old. I was in a dark musical mood when I was a kid, haha. I bought this record in a metal record shop in Paris near my mom’s university. I used to spend my afternoons there when she was studying.

Kind of Blue / Miles Davis

Cookie Monster Galaxy: It was “Kind of Blue”, a classic jazz album! I bought the CD version at a flea market. I’ve been looking for the first pressing of the vinyl version for several years.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Ikaruga / Hiroshi Iuchi

97SPECIAL: Ikaruga by Hiroshi Iuchi, the Japanese composer. I discovered the first release of the label in 2015 with Shenmue! Since that day, I can’t stop collecting vinyl from this label, which surpasses it at each release (OKAMI, Sonic Mania, Out Run…)! Today, I’ve just received the 25th vinyl of the label: IKARUGA (that I discovered in 2002 on Dreamcast) on data-discs.com, DATA-DISCS is a label based in London and founded by Jamie Crook.

A View Of U / Machinedrum

STUCKINWAVEFORMS: I bought this record on Bandcamp. I love the fact that Machinedrum can mix such heavy bass music influences with jazzy chords & melodies. It’s something that always inspired me.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Vinyl / Nobuo Uematsu

Cookie Monster Galaxy: This is a very limited vinyl version proposed by the Square Enix studio. The product being out of stock on the official website, I bought it on eBay.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

Samurai Champloo — The Way Of The Samurai / Nujabes, my friend Tsutchie, Force of Nature, Fat Jon & Shing02

97SPECIAL: 2 years ago, I bought the first edition of Samurai Champloo's vinyl (released in 2007 on the Ample Soul label, a record label by Fat Jon). Thank you, eBay haha!

Reality Testing / Lone

STUCKINWAVFORMS: This is a hard question, but I would say “Reality Testing”. On Bandcamp a few years ago. This album just corresponds entirely to my musical tastes, this is such a unique vibe, but if I had to describe my self with music, I would choose this album.

The Neptunes Present… Clones / The Neptunes

Cookie Monster Galaxy: I listened to The Neptunes’ album in pirate version since it was almost impossible to find the album in France when it was released.

1999 / Joey Badass

Cookie Monster Galaxy: Concerning Joey Badass’s album, I downloaded it on the DATPIFF website when it was released, which is for me a timeless album.

Mixtape / A Kid Named Cudi

Cookie Monster Galaxy: Finally, A KID NAMED CUDI is the first project (mixtape) of the artist, it was also available on DATPIFF. I was impressed by tracks like ‘Man on the Moon’ produced by Nosaj Thing and key tracks like ‘The Prayer’ as a tribute to DJ AM. This project clearly represents the soundtrack of my life.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Colorboys Vol.1 / Colorboys

97SPECIAL: Colorboys volume 1 is just the first EP created for fun by our band! This EP, which is not perfect that it is by the rhymes of the tracks, mastering etc… allowed us to take all these weaknesses which are in Colorboys Volume 1 and to transform them into strength for Colorboys Volume 2.

Orikami Records Releases

STUCKINWAVEFORMS: I would say all the records from Orikami, this label is a massive audio & visual influence for me, and that’s why I am very proud to work with them.

Have a Mind / The Internet

Cookie Monster Galaxy: The ‘Have Mind’ project produced by ‘The Internet’. We were inspired by the cover for our album because the band is a big source of inspiration.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Manhattan Records

97SPECIAL: A vinyl store that offers a lot of US Hip Hop vinyl. With 4 bins reserved for Japanese Hip Hop where you can find rappers that I really like: KID FRESINO.
JJJ, Shing02, SCHA DARA PARR at very affordable prices. The shop also organizes live shows with DJs, rappers, and others.

小宋唱片

STUCKINWAVEFORMS: I don’t really know if I have a favorite record store, but the last record store I really enjoyed was “Xiao song record”(小宋唱片) in Taipei, Taiwan. They have a solid classic & jazz music library, but they also have traditional Taiwanese music & much more … Shout out to my friend Raytang Lee for showing me this place.

Face Records — Tokyo & Benito’s Records Shop — Paris

Cookie Monster Galaxy: For both of these stores, you will find a lot of vinyl choices. There are quite a lot of independent label releases, and the arrival is sometimes very interesting.

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

Because it is a pleasure to have the object in hand of the diamond created by an artist. It is also a pleasure to work with the Qrates team.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

Views (Feat. Yutaka Hirasaka)

Last Dance (Feat. Shogonodo)

Orikami Records presents Colorboys’s vinyl project “COLORBOYS VOL.2” is available now on Qrates.com

COLORBOYS VOL.2

Wax Heart with Colorboys was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is Tab-One?

Tab-One was born and raised in North Carolina. He currently resides in Raleigh, NC and is best known for his work with Kooley High.

Tab weaves insightful lyricism with soulful beats. Over a decade of writing, recording and performing have solidified Tab’s spot as one of the best hip hop artists to arise from the North Carolina scene.

HP / FACEBOOK / TWITTER / INSTAGRAM / YOUTUBE

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

The Best of Nina Simone / Nina Simone

I got my first records from my parent’s collection. This album in particular stood out amongst the stack. I had never heard anything like Nina. Keep in my mind this was before Spotify, YouTube, etc. I no longer have it but I know it’s floating around somewhere. Maybe it’ll make its way back to me. Other records in that stack were The Eagles — Greatest Hits, some Leon Russell, Linda Ronstadt, Jerry Butler and others.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Midnight Marauders / A Tribe Called Quest

I wore this album OUT on cassette back in 93'. I was given the album on vinyl for my birthday last year. This is the album that made me fall in love with hip hop. It’s a masterclass. Required listening in my opinion.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

What’s Going On / Marvin Gaye

I believe I bought this album at Nice Price Books in Raleigh, NC. My memory is the worst. “What’s Going On” is one of the best, if not the best concept albums of all time. It gets better the more you listen to it. Marvin’s use of his voice as an instrument throughout the album is magical.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Check Your Head / Beastie Boys

I really just picked this because it’s one my favorite albums. You could definitely say my cover art was inspired by this style; photo mixed with design & font. I’ve always loved photography as the main focus with a design that’s inspired by classic jazz albums (Blue Note, Columbia Records).

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Schoolkids Records

It's a local store here in Raleigh, NC. They’ve survived a lot and they’ve always had a great selection & great staff. My group Kooley High filmed a music video in their old location back in the day. They’ve always shown love.

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

I love vinyl. I want the feeling of dropping a needle and hearing my album through the speakers. Vinyl is making a huge comeback and I think people who grew up with tangible music collections are wanting that feeling back. New generations as well.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

Balancing Act

Tab-One’s vinyl project “Balancing Act” is available now on Qrates.com

Balancing Act

Wax Heart with Tab-One was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is Sam Lachow?

Sam Lachow is a producer, rapper, songwriter, videographer, director, and editor of video and music. Raised in both Seattle and New York City he’s been making videos since elementary school, and as a seventh-grader began a group called Shankbone. Sam began directing and producing music videos with Shankbone, and went on to create videos for various other artists.
Sam’s self produced debut album is titled “Brand New Bike”. The album’s success motivated Sam to follow up with a few EP’s, and produce/direct dozens of music videos from the projects on his YouTube channel, which now has over 10 million views. Sam’s fan favorite 80 Bars series has surpassed a million plays on Soundcloud.

Sam continues to work with Shankbone and produce videos while crafting his solo projects.

HP / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / YouTube

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

Conversation With A Devil / Andre Nickatina

Got it at easy street I was obsessed with that shit

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Yours Truly / Sol

A classic album from one of my great friends and fellow Seattleite, Sol.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

Lord Willin’ / Clipse

Every song is a banger. Timeless shit.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

The Love Below / André 3000

So creative, daring and inspiring

Record #5 — Any other particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Pick Up The Phone / F.R David

Never even heard this record but for whatever reason the cover art inspired the hell out of the Corduroy cover.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Easy Street

They were the first shop to sell my albums and they got the fire espressos

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

Every time I needed inspiration for album artwork I would browse through Bop Street Records in Fremont in Seattle. It’d be such a shame to never even make some vinyl myself!

A little peak behind the curtain of the making of the Corduroy album cover for anyone interested! The album was already almost finished long before we came up with the cover art. All I knew for certain was that I wanted it to include a photo of my dog, Dev, both as a way to immortalize him, and cause he's such a good boy! I then continued my tradition of going to Bop Street Records in Ballard (RIP cause Covid 😢) and skimming the shelves for inspiration and cause "all great artists steal" like Picasso said. I eventually decided that it had to be a real photograph (rather than a drawing), it had to be a straight, head on shot (rather than an angle) and there had to be lots of open space. I also thought it'd be dope if it was mostly black and white, with the only bright colors coming from a single window that draws your eye in. The first slide is the original "prototype" that my little brother drew based on the idea I had in my head but wasn't able to draw it myself. Thank you, Charlie ❤️. There was originally going to be floating castles inside the window but it ended up looking way too busy. I was inspired by a ton of different photographs and surrealist art, but the next few slides are some of the ones that I think impacted the cover the most. The placing and coloring of the window from the FR David album, the simplicity and framing of the Mac Miller cover, and the Leonora Carrington painting cause it's filthy. I then hit up my insanely talented friend @itsjustinfrick to see if he could help me make this idea come to life, and him and his team absolutely killed it. The next slides are some BTS from that shoot. For the sky and cloud inside the window we hit up @kwrrk.design who did a beautiful job. Thank you all so much! My new album "Corduroy" comes out in 10 days. Love you guys so much and thanks for rockin with me all these years I feel so lucky to still get to do this stuff.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

A4 — Ten Feet Tall

Sam Lachow’s vinyl project “CORDUROY” on 12" pink vinyl is available now until Nov 15 2020 00:00 UTC on Qrates.com!

CORDUROY

Wax Heart with Sam Lachow was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is Quiver?

Quiver is an alternative neo-soul band born in 2018 and based in Rome, Italy.
They independently released their first album “Quiver” in 2020 after releasing an EP in 2018 and many singles. They played, amongst other things, Mind Festival, Anfiteatro del Venda in Padova, Cosmo Jazz Festival in Chamonix, Alcazar Live and Monk Roma.

HP / Facebook / Instagram

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

Mr. Hands / Herbie Hancock

This record was very influential for us, we still have it and we bring it every time we go to play a show out of the city or on a roadtrip. We never get tired of hearing it.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

The Free Nationals / The Free Nationals

This is a very cool record, we’ve been long time fans of Anderson .paak and we always kept an eye on The Free National when they played together, such a thight rhythm section! Their first record alone is the proof of that.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

Thriller / Michael Jackson

Such a hard question! Well we had to compromise between us three and we can all agree that “Thriller” is one of the best pop album of all time: great producion, great songwriting and great lyrics. Every song is a hit!

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Emergency On Planet Earth / Jamiroquai

One of our favourite artists. We really love the sound of early Jamiroquai records: raw and groovy! We definitely tried to implement that sound in our album “Quiver”.

Record #5 — Any other particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Choose Your Weapon / Hiatus Kayote

Another great album, we loved the sounds choices that they made producing it, it sounds amazing. Also the songwriting really influenced us during the production of our first album.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

RADIATION RECORDS (Rome, Italy)

We love this shop because it has a really cool vibe and they’re always full of great records!

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

You see, being our first album ever it would be very important for us to have our record printed, it would mean the world to us.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

Well of course we love all the tracks but I’d say we have a particular link with “I.S.S.”

It’s the kind of nice ballad you never get enough of.

Quiver’s vinyl project “Quiver” is available until Sep 5 2020 00:00 UTC on Qrates.com

Quiver

Wax Heart with Quiver was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is The Orange Constant?

From us to you…

Thanks for your interest in spinning Peel, the third album from The Orange Constant!

The LP was recorded in the band’s homebase of Athens, GA over the course of multiple recording sessions that began in the fall of 2018 and spanned over a year. It was produced, mixed, and mastered by hometown hero John Keane (R.E.M., Widespread Panic, Indigo Girls) with whom the band recorded its first album, Time to Go (2015). Keane also added his signature pedal steel guitar on select tunes.

Peel arrived in May 2020 and solidifies TOC’s sonic spectrum; heartfelt anthems with catchy choruses ride alongside instrumental mastery with psychedelic undertones. With rich vocal harmonies, hooky riffing, and succinct songwriting, the album embellishes much of what Time to Go sought and captures the band’s most current lineup and sound.

You’re the first…

Over the next month, you have the opportunity to own our first ever vinyl record. But in order for the wax to go to press, we need 100 orders. So please, spread the word about TOC and our campaign and let’s make this real.

Many thanks to Sam Balling and Carrie Hutton for the artwork and design.

Let’s “peel” it back, hehe…

From the opening beat of the first track to the chaotic close of the last, this is a tried-and-true rock album. Well, our kind of rock.

“What You’re Asking For” begins with acoustic guitar strums that usher in a powerful entrance from the group. This is an emotional song that works through contrast; lyrical lamentations that capture the convoluted reflections after an argument overlay the bluesy simplicity and folksy charm of the music underneath. And just as a kayaker shoots down the Hiwassee River, the finale spits out the reggae-infused “Reliance.” This sophomore track depicts an uplifting community of salt-of-the-earth riverfolk in the eponymous Tennessee town.

The third song off Peel offers a look at the band’s instrumental side. After several iterations, “Reincronic” emerged as a sonic journey that showcases the band’s technical skill and dynamism. A triumphant resolution sails this fantastical tune off to the unknown until the shattering introductory hits of “Far from Home” snap reality into focus. This fourth track is an older song for the group, fittingly, as it ruminates on the bittersweet flavors of memory and nostalgia. As A. Brantley says, “It’s only right when it’s okay, it’s only good, when we’re away.”

“The Blackout” was a creation from bassist and singer Tyler Walker who tells a tale of transgression, remorse, penance, and ultimately growth. Musically, the song is an anthemic undertaking with rich choral textures, Latin-influenced grooves, and Floydian tendencies. For anyone who has imbibed and indulged, this is an all-too-familiar story.

With soft vocals and a laid-back R&B swagger, “Reach” initially cools the album down until the song erupts into its climatic refrain, “should’ve left it alone.” The torrents vanish as quickly as they appear and what’s left behind proves a stark acceptance of one’s personal limitations.

This wouldn’t be rock ’n’ roll without a good ol’ song about the road. “Go!” is exactly that but with a positive spin on the thrill of leaving behind the banality of routine home-life to explore the great-open country. This one sprouted from drummer Sam Groveman and his appreciation for world music and multi-ethnic polyrhythms.

The penultimate track of Peel is more than just the partial inspiration for the album title and artwork; it represents the history of the band’s origin in Statesboro, GA where Nick and Andrew performed in college bars and restaurants. “Banana” may be short and sweet but its roots are deep and strong.

The album concludes with a boot stompin’, southern rock throwdown (we are a Georgia band, afterall). “Fadin’ the Line” advises setting aside differences to achieve a common goal. As the closing statement off the band’s third full-length studio effort, the tune stands symbolically as an expression of collaboration and commitment. Trust us, we’ve learned a thing or two about getting along to make something happen.

— The Orange Constant

HP / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

Led Zeppelin IV / Led Zeppelin

I remember going to the mall with my Aunt when I was probably 12 years old or so, and I was just starting to get into playing guitar. I was really starting to discover what classic rock was all about, and where better to start than the mighty Led Zeppelin? I wanted to be Jimmy Page for a bit, just as every 12 year old beginner guitar player wants. That being said though, I can’t fail to mention that I was burdened with a difficult choice between that record and another….and that other happened to be Guns n Roses “Appetite for Destruction”. Sure enough, I’d get that one too one day, but I’m proud of little me for making the right choice and starting with Zeppelin.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Pussycats / Harry Nilsson

This record has a wild history! It’s produced by John Lennon and has Ringo and Keith Moon playing drums throughout most of it. Lennon also contributed the track “Mucho Mungo/Mt. Elga,” and backing vocals on several songs. Unfortunately, Harry damaged his vocal chords during the recording process and his performance reminds me of a raspy Jim Morrison during the “LA Woman” session, which I ended up liking. I picked it up at Comeback Vinyl in downtown Alpharetta along with a live Blues Brothers record.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

All Things Must Pass / George Harrison

This is the most difficult question you can ask someone! What makes an album your all-time favorite? It could be a record from your childhood that shaped you, or it could be something that you’ve been more recently inspired by… And how could anything compare to legendary classics like “Dark Side of the Moon”??
But if I have to choose just one, George Harrison’s masterpiece “All Things Must Pass” will forever hold a special place in my heart. I think the overall message and tone of the record come from a place of heartbreak, healing, acceptance, and spiritual growth that we can all relate to, and should quite frankly focus on more as humans. It’s a record that everyone needs to listen to at some point.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Teamwork / Futurebirds

This is another tough question, since all 5 members of our band have totally different tastes in music. If I had to narrow it down though, Futurebirds are definitely one of the first bands that come to mind. Those guys are actually friends of ours that we get to share the stage with from time to time, and they’re hometown heroes from Athens, GA, which is where we call home as well. They put out a fantastic record called “Teamwork” last fall, and our band was spinning it pretty regularly in the van while we were on tour. So I think it’s pretty safe to say we were all subtly inspired by those guys, and the album is similar to ours in all sorts of ways. They really have a great ear for vocal arrangements, and each member has their own unique voice that makes their harmonies really shine. I think this encouraged us to step things up a notch in terms of our vocal performance. They also have an incredible pedal steel player that has grown to be a defining characteristic of their music. While we’re not quite ready to have another full-time member of the band like that, we still loved that sound, and quickly concluded that we absolutely needed a bit of that haunting shimmer on our record. We were lucky enough to have recording legend John Keane as our producer, and he graciously gifted us with his pedal steel talents.

Record #5 — Any other particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Troubadour / J.J. Cale

This is another record that is a consistent favorite between everyone in our band. The influence of J.J. Cale spreads further than most people even realize, and we’ve been known to cover several of his songs live, just as so many other famous artists have. What’s fascinating about Cale is how simple, yet dynamic his songs can be. His smooth monotone southern twang is soothing and almost sensual, and it gives his music a confident swagger that’s undeniable. His use of subtle percussion is so clever that it makes you giggle, and I think pieces of our album were definitely influenced by concepts like that.
I also can’t fail to mention that his stories of traveling and taking a nomadic, one step at a time approach to life can definitely be heard as common themes in our songs as well.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Papa Jazz Record Shoppe (Columbia, SC)

Every time we play in Columbia I have got to hit Papa Jazz. I cant go in there without purchasing 5 or 6 records, their selection is just insane. I’ve had the privilege of shopping there for 7 years or so, because my girlfriend lived in Columbia for a long time. They have everything from brand spanking new vinyl fresh off the press, to dusty gems that are priced wayyy lower than they should be. I remember once I walked out of there with a copy of “Katy Lied” by Steely Dan for ONE DOLLAR. Sure the cover was a little beat up, but c’mon…that thing was in pristine condition.
Papa Jazz. Great record shop, can’t recommend it enough. If you’re ever in the Columbia area, definitely give it a visit.

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

I think it’s a dream of most bands to have their own album on vinyl. Just to be able to have your art stored amongst so many other great bands that ultimately helped you create your own record means a ton. As an avid vinyl collector myself, I can’t wait to have a piece of my own to add to my collection. Especially in today’s age, where digital music reigns king, it’s great to be able to get back to the roots of recorded music. That feeling is irreplaceable.
It’s something our fans have been asking for for a long time, and we’re thrilled that we finally have the opportunity to give this to them.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

That depends on who you ask…or even what day you’re asking…
But I think I’ll have to say “Go!”, simply because it’s a great representation of every member of our band writing and collaborating together as a unit. No one person wrote that song, it was a team effort. It has some cool time signature changes in there, as well as some solid 5 piece vocal arrangements and some pretty epic guitar harmonies.

The Orange Constant’s vinyl project “Peel” is available now on Qrates.com

Peel

Wax Heart with The Orange Constant was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is AHNAMUSICA?

AHNAMUSICA（アハナムジカ）
Beat maker Song writer Vinyl lover from JAPAN

Instagram / YouTube / Spotify / Apple music / SoundCloud / Bandcamp

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

How Deep Is Your Love / Bee Gees

I bought this 7inch Vinyl at the antique market in Paris.
I came to know this song by John Frusciante cover.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Carry More / Segawa Tatsuya

My friend gave me this 7inch vinyl. I can feel like the strength of nature from this song.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

awakening / Hiroshi Sato

My father gave me this as a gift.
Every time I hear it always take me the ocean. This album never gets old.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Blue Room / Gas Lab

This cool jazz beat tape really blows my mind! Through the album mix of chill, cool, melancholic beats. His music inspired me a lot.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Hard Off

If you are interested in Japanese Music, I recommend you to visit this dope store.

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

There is no special reason.
Vinyl is Beautiful.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

Track.4 What

AHNAMUSICA’s vinyl project: “Aesthetic(lofi)” is now available on Qrates.com!

Aesthetic(lofi)

Wax Heart with AHNAMUSICA was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is Tom Aspaul?

Tom Aspaul is a singer/songwriter/virgo from Wolverhampton who’s written songs for Kylie Minogue, Celeste, AlunaGeorge, Snakehips, Becky Hill and many more. This year sees him releasing his debut full-length project — ‘Black Country Disco’ — a break-up album of disco bangers inspired by music from the late 70s/early 80s.

Twitter / Instagram / Facebook / Spotify

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

Gotta Get Thru This / Daniel Bedingfield

We had a record player when I was growing up, mostly to listen to my parent’s music — but I only bought CDs. It wasn’t until the early 2000s when I wanted to be a “DJ” that my parents got me two decks for Christmas. The first record I bought for it was Daniel Bedingfield. UK Garage was big at the time and this was me thinking I was really cool and edgy.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Klyne / Klyne

I discovered Klyne whilst working on the reception for a member’s club, a couple of years ago. Our work playlist had a few of Klyne’s songs on it, which repeated over and over — I loved what I heard, Shazamed their songs and began listening on Spotify. Eventually I became a full on fan — discovered their entire album. I only began my vinyl collection last year in earnest and suddenly realised last week, their album was one of the few albums I loved front to back — so I literally just went on Amazon and got it the next day!

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

The Visitors / ABBA

I own this as part of an ABBA boxset, vinyl of all their studio albums. Both the ABBA couples broke up before this record came out and you can really feel it. It’s so icy and Scandinavian on the surface, but there is so much depth and warmth in the production. It’s a real joy to listen to. They were just at the start of something incredible, moving into a more synth-pop/new-wave lane (you can hear it in the unreleased songs like ‘I Am City’) which is why this album is so bittersweet, a taste of what could have been!

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Out of the Blue / Electric Light Orchestra

This album is incredible, sonically, the way the songs merge into one long symphony is definitely something I tried to emulate with ‘Black Country Disco’ — I want the same drama and storyline you get, again it’s like a proper journey through the music and really complements the production. Visually, I totally love the band’s logo — it’s iconic and gives them such a strong identity, something we tried with my logo! Also the painted spaceship on the cover and general spacey feel was certainly something we used as a reference for my artwork — which was also completely painted!

Record #5 — Any other particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Confessions on a Dancefloor / Madonna

Madonna is the Queen of reinvention and she can pull off so many styles and genres, but something just really clicked with ‘Confessions’ — I love how, after quite a few introspective records, she ditched guitars, ballads and mid-tempo — and made every song on ‘Confessions’ a big four-on-the-floor slap round the face. Again, similar to ELO, the non-stop mix aspect was something I was inspired by. Also, visually, the styling and imagery is so strong, consistent, recognisable and iconic — I feel like it really added gravitas to the album. I have the bright pink vinyl, it’s beautiful.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Rough Trade East

When I lived in London, I really enjoyed having a wander down to Brick Lane and browsing all the shops — Rough Trade was always my first port of call. Before Covid-19, I went to quite a few really nice gigs there too. It’s always a fab vibe to just grab a cup of tea there and people watch too.

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

This project has been massively inspired by music from the 70s and 80s — my Mom’s vinyl collection basically — and I vividly remember the thrill of popping one of her disco records on — the sound quality, the warmth, the random noises sometimes — it just evokes a certain atmosphere that you can’t quite capture with streaming or CDs. Therefore — I think listening to my album on vinyl will really enhance the experience. Also visually, the artwork is such a beautiful piece of art, so much time and effort when into painting it and piecing it together — it deserves to be held in people’s hands!

What’s your favorite track from the project?

The final song ‘Black Country Disco’ is probably my favourite — but for mostly personal reasons. Firstly — it’s one of two songs on the album I’ll have production credits on, my first after nearly 10 years in the music industry, which is a big step — and the lyrics are about freedom and happiness after a long period of sadness and confusion, which is why it’s on the end of the record — because the whole album is about a break-up and ‘Black Country Disco’ feels like me coming out the other side, happier and lighter.

Tom Aspaul’s vinyl project “Black Country Disco” is available until Sep 1 2020 00:00 UTC on Qrates.com

Black Country Disco

Wax Heart with Tom Aspaul was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is shogonodo?

If he starts producing and releasing his first works online between 2010 and 2015, it’s his encounter with cookie monster galaxy & 97SPECIAL in 2017, founder and co-founder of the label/collective Orikami Records, that will allow the artist to find a first audience, notably through several singles, projects, and collaborations made within the label.

The producer is present in other production registers. Rap in particular, for which he has produced very nice things for Korean rappers (Wonjaewonjae, KCDP), several singles with his friend (ESAE), an instrumental for the rapper/producer of ASAP MOB (Treez Lowkey) and notably several other collaborations with producers such as (97SPECIAL, STUCKINWAVEFORMS, and cookie monster galaxy).

After the Flowers In The Trap series and his ‘reverie’ album released on the label, the French producer is back today with a new album ‘patience’, perfect for nature and city walks.

Instagram / Twitter

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

Shades of blue / Madlib

Actually, this is still one of my favorite records! I discovered this album almost 7 years ago and I bought it only a few years later! I love the concept of this one, Madlid collaborated with legendary Blue Note Records on it. As a jazz and hip hop lover, this is a perfect combo. Thinking back now, that was the real beginning for my interest in instrumental hip hop.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Escape / 97SPECIAL

1st album by my friend 97SPECIAL released on Orikami Records family! I had the chance to collaborate on 2 beats. This album is so smooth and has a perfect jazzy vibe to relax, thinking, and meditate. 97SPECIAL always get this nostalgic/peaceful touch on his instrumentals. I used to listen to it when I’m driving, it makes me really calm and in a good mood. Also, the artwork is incredible. One of my favorite covers.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

Madvillainy / Madvillain

2 of my favorite producers working together... This album has a strong background, for example from what I read about this masterpiece Madlib did a lot of beats from this project when he was traveling in Brazil in a hotel room with not much material. Really love that kind of story. It’s DOOM flow really match Madlib’s instrumentals for sure. My favorite track on this record is ‘Raid’.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Pete Rock Lost & Found: Hip Hop Underground Soul Classics/ Pete Rock

On my last project PATIENCE, I really wanted to get some tracks influenced by boom bap vibes like ‘21’ ‘Wholetrain’ or ‘patience’ for example. I think it leads the project even if it’s not 100 percent present on it. But I did a lot of boom-bap beats recently and really loved to makes them! I picked that record by Pete Rock because this is a really really good compilation for boom-bap beats!

Record #5 — Any other particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

after hanabi. / cookie monster galaxy

With my friend cookie monster galaxy, we collaborate on one track together ‘Acacia’. He is Orikami Records creator and has a large vision of music, he knows so many things!! He always helps me with my beats, projects ideas, and many others :). We were talking a lot during the album’s creation! We’ll release more tracks together in the future I hope, stay tuned! I listened so many times to his album ‘after hanabi’, this is a must-listen!

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Phonica Records

I had the chance to go to this store few years ago during a trip to London with friends.. That was so special to go to this legendary record store !

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

I like the ‘physical side’ of music! It is important to keep it I think and not only focus on data and streams.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

shogonodo’s vinyl project “PATIENCE” is available until Jul 26 2020 00:00 UTC on Qrates.com

PATIENCE

Wax Heart with shogonodo was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is Steve Nieve?

Steve Nieve is the Grammy Awarded keyboard player of Elvis Costello and the Attractions/Imposters. The distinctive sound of Costello is widely recognised as the work of Steve’s highly distinctive keyboard styling. Steve Nieve was inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. Here on Qrates via Trouville Records most of Steve Nieve’s music can be obtained on vinyl. First up is “Fuji~rama” a minimalist electronic improvisation on a memory of an earthquake. This will be followed by “Steve Nieve Plays Elvis Costello”, a beautiful recording of Costello’s tunes masterfully arranged for solo piano and performed by Steve Nieve. Previous works soon to be included on Trouville Records: Keyboard Jungle (1983) , Mumu (2000), Raining Somewhere (2003), Windows (2004), Welcome to the Voice (2007), Lazy Point (2110). Together (2015). Therefore this year, 2020, inspite of the Covid 19 lock down, promises to be an exciting year for fans of Steve Nieve.

HP / YouTube / SoundCloud

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

Electric Warrior / T.Rex

My very first collection of records was completely vinyl and I loved them. I have no idea where they all are now. Some remain at my parent’s house, mostly the classical records, and some strange records I was given as a child. Sparky’s Magic Piano for example. The discovery of the electric guitar, and other electric instruments was a life changer. Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Bob Marley and the Wailers, Dusty Springfield, The Beatles of course, they all figured in my adolescent collection.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

Hermitage / Ron Sexsmith

Beautiful voice has Ron Sexsmith, and I love his carefully crafted songs. His melodies slip here and there, because his voice is like honey, it’s not following the usual line of things. Also he has a lovely way with his lyrics. Highly recommend ALL of Ron’s albums. I wrote a modern opera “Welcome to the Voice”, libretto by Muriel Teodori. We first performed it with Ron Sexsmith, Elvis Costello and John Flansburgh in the male roles, at the town Hall in New York. And Ron sings a song of mine on my album “Together” a song called “Bonfire Night”. All my past records I plan to release on my own label “Trouville Records” on Qrates

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

This Year’s Model / Elvis Costello and the Attractions

I joined Elvis Costello and the Attractions when I was just 17 years of age. Our first album was “This Year’s Model”, and we were so excited to be making it there was very little to think about, we just did it. It has a unique sound, because in those days we played more gigs than days in the year, and we knew the material inside out. A lot of the music inside these songs was developed during our live shows, we quickly found the most economic way to play these songs. I loved working with Nick Lowe who produced all our early records. He made being in the studio, under a microscope FUN. And I think having vinyl is FUN too.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

My Life In The Bush Of Ghosts / David Byrne and Brian Eno

When this album came out it was a real revolution. I wouldn’t say Fuji~Rama sounds anything like it, but the possibilities of adding material from all over the world, from different times, past, present, maybe even the future?? These things are much easier now than they were back then for these two genius’ of the music. I recall at the time we were all using cassettes, making playlists, recording the radio, and the tapes had their own wonderful vibey sound. I used a cassette recorder for one of the elements on one of the tracks on Fuji~Rama. But it’s the sort of audio collage aspect of this album that was so mind-blowing at the time. Love it.

Record #5 — Any other particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Escalator Over the Hill / Carla Bley and many others

This is a beautiful modern music theatre piece, and I went to a festival just outside Lyon to hear it recreated fairly recently. What can I say, it’s a master piece. Improvisation is the key. Even though it’s a sophisticated composition. It uses improvisation as a compositional tool. Nothing like this record on Fuji~Rama, but again Improvisation is the main seed.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

Qrates

I say this because I just discovered the site. And I think making it possible for independent artists to create Vinyl versions of their work is a beautiful plan, and I’d like more artists to use the platform and I’d like to see Qrates become extremely popular. It’s true we live in a world of steaming, where music is intangible. But the fact to have a real cover, and to have the sound of the vinyl needle impregnated into the music, that’s the first injection that got me hooked, and I want to experience this again. So here I am on Qrates.

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

I just answered this, but another reason is this, very difficult to pirate, right?

What’s your favorite track from the project?

It’s a track that’s not on the record, it’ll be a digital bonus, because of Covid19 all the musicians on the record attempted to play together using Zoom. I think we recorded something interesting over the internet. So one of these bonus tracks would be a favourite, because you can see us all playing!

Steve Nieve’s vinyl project: “Fuji~Rama” is available for pre-order until Jul 31 2020 00:00 UTC on Qrates.com!

Fuji~Rama

Wax Heart with Steve Nieve was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Who is Osta Love?

Osta Love are Tobias Geberth and Leon Ackermann who started the band after moving to Berlin in 2010. In 2013 they released their debut Good Morning Dystopia, an epic concept album about urban life in the 21th century. The band cut their teeth playing in clubs around Berlin and support shows for bands like Boy & Bear and The Pineapple Thief.

Osta Love really found their voice on the stylistically diverse, yet tonally consistent second album The Isle of Dogs which has been called “a brilliant tightrope walk between catchiness and mystery” (Eclipsed) and ”for the last remaining connoisseurs, incredibly original” (Streetclip.tv).

Osta Love set out to compose memorable songs that stay surprising and interesting even after repeated listening, adding a certain musical complexity to the songs without over-complicating them — qualities they admire in bands like Pink Floyd, Steely Dan and The Beatles, probably the three acts that influenced them most.

HP / Facebook page / YouTube / Instagram

Record #1 — What’s the first record you ever bought?

The Beatles (“White Album”) / The Beatles

I don’t really remember the first record I ever bought, but the first vinyl LP I purchased was a scratched copy of The Beatles’ “White Album”.

Record #2 — What’s the last record you bought?

For Their Love / Other Lives

Great sounding record, very cinematic. Got the limited edition with clear vinyl, which looks awesome.

Record #3 — Your all-time favorite record?

Wish You Were Here / Pink Floyd

It’s hard to pick just one, but Pink Floyd is probably our favourite band and their albums from the 70s are certainly some of the best records ever made.

Record #4 — Any particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Currents / Tame Impala

Listened to this record a lot since it came out and I think it influenced our use of electronics and repetition.

Record #5 — Any other particular record (both audio/artwork) that influenced your latest project on Qrates?

Pretzel Logic / Steely Dan

We got more and more into Steely Dan over the last couple of years and their music is a big influence and inspiration for us.

What’s your favorite record store and why?

The Record Store Berlin

It’s a nice little store and they get bonus points because they put our last record on display in the shop-window.

Is there any particular reason you’d like to press vinyl?

If the internet gets erased and nobody has a CD-player anymore, perhaps someone in the post-apocalypse will figure out how to run a stick over those plastic discs and listen to our music.

What’s your favorite track from the project?

A5.ー Nights of Aphelion

Osta Love’s vinyl project: “About Time” is available until Jul 12 2020 00:00 UTC on Qrates.com

About Time

Wax Heart with Osta Love was originally published in QRATES For the Record on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.