Retrovision: Ultravox- The Voice

Thirty years ago, Ultravox had a huge hit with "The Voice", their second single which was taken form the album 'Rage in Eden' released in the same year. The song was recorded in Conny Plank's Studio in Cologne, Germany and it reached the top 20 in the UK peaking at # 16. There were two different videos made for the single. One has the band miming a performance in a slanted room with the band members appearing to be standing at an unnatural angle. The other video is more elaborate, contains war imagery, single-word slogans in knock-out text, features Billy Currie appearing as a radio announcer, and Midge Ure as a soldier.

Next Wave: Azure Blue

Azure Blue is a new side project by Tobias Isaksson, an established artist, talented songwriter and a colorful profile on the Swedish pop scene. His musical project is named after the azure blue waters of the Mediterranean as a paraphrase of Dennis Wilson's 'Pacific Ocean Blue'. Supplementing the blue colour come the summery, gentle and sentimental tones of his music. His debut album 'Rule of Thirds' will be released on November 17th 2011. "Catcher in The Rye" is one of the first single releases from the album.

http://www.facebook.com/azurebluesuedeshoes

The Catcher in the Rye by Azure Blue

The Soft Moon- Total Decay EP

The Soft Moon have released a follow-up to their self titled debut LP this week and as their previous record, the new EP was released on Halloween. The EP is entitled "Total Decay", features four brand new tracks and it is out Captured Tracks.

The Fall- Ersatz G.B.

The Fall are releasing releasing a new album this November. Their new album will be called 'Ersatz G.B.' and it will be their 29th studio album and their first release for Cherry Red Records. 'Ersatz G.B.' will be issued on CD, LP and digital formats, and will be proceeded by a new 7” single, featuring an exclusive B-side track. The Fall will be playing several dates to promote the album’s release, including a UK tour in November and an appearance at All Tomorrow’s Parties in December. The album is out on November 14, 2011.

Words and Facts, Morrissey and The Smiths in Mozpedia

Steven Patrick Morrissey, one of the most original musicians of all time and his former band The Smiths, one of the most influential bands of all time are a subject of a book called 'Mozpedia' which was released a year ago. The summation of years of interviews and meticulous research has been arranged and written by acclaimed music journalist Simon Goddard. His book 'Mozipedia' is the most in-depth and exhaustive book about the man, the myth, and the music that's ever been published. Bringing together every song, every album, every collaborator, and so much more in over 600 entries, this is a unique and sensational find for music fans and a must-have for Morrissey's legions of devoted admirers.

http://www.amazon.com/Mozipedia-Encyclopedia-Morrissey-Simon-Goddard

WAW: Chromatics- Kill for Love

Chromatics have recorded a new album 'Kill for Love' which will be out in January next year. Until then, as a warm-up, here is the video for their latest single "Kill for Love" which was released this month. It is out on iTunes. The video for the song was directed by Alberto Rossini.

 

Reissue: Dalek I -Compass Kum'pas

Dalek I's first album "Compass Kum'pas" is going to be released on vinyl for the first time since its original release date in 1980. Medical Records in collaboration with Dave and Alan are proud to present this seminal work on vinyl for the first time in over 30 years. LP includes all the tracks,  a bonus insert with early photos and a special written piece on the band by Kurt B. Reighley. As an extra to the LP, a bonus flexi-disc is included that includes the B-sides “Happy” and “This Is My Uniform”. Presented with much love on high-quality 180gram hot pink vinyl in a limited edition of 1000 hand-numbered copies. 

http://medical-records.org/releases

More about the group:
Dalek I (Love You)

Morten Harket's New Solo Album Confirmed

A-ha's lead singer Morten Harket is working on a new solo album scheduled for release in March 2012. The album will be produced by Steve Osborne who has previously worked with New Order, Placebo and a-ha. The album will also feature special contributions by Pet Shop Boys and  Kent and it will be promoted during the full worldwide tour which will start in May 2012.

Next Wave: Montage Populaire

Montage Populaire is a Southampton based indie pop group whose music is an electric vintage box packed with lots of diverse musical influences. Freewheeling dance beat and seductive rhythms which gets you on your feet. Their debut EP "Nothing Serious" was released on October 11, 2011. 

Find out more about the group by clicking the links below.

  Montage Populaire Facebook
  http://monpop.bandcamp.com

Instant Hit: The Monochrome Set- The Ruling Class

"The Ruling Class" was a big hit for The Monochrome Set in 1984. A year before this song appeared on a compilation Volume, Contrast, Brilliance... (Sessions & Singles Vol. 1) with several other Monochrome Set hits. In the recent years the band mostly released compilations including Early Recordings: 1975-1977 "White Noise released last year.