LP – Luno

LA LOCAL VINYL – SILVERSUN PICKUPS – BETTER NATURE

luno — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 22:29:17 +0000

When they were getting started, Silversun Pickups were known as one of the hardest working bands in Silverlake. Early on, taking any and every gig they could, even if it meant closing out bills and only playing to a small handful of people. They were mainstays at some of the coolest Los Angeles venues during the early 2000s, including Spaceland, Echo and the indie club that would become their second home Silverlake Lounge. They generated a lot of buzz in the Silverlake scene after the release of the debut EP Pikul, which cemented their reputation as one of the most promising new bands of 2005. The following year would see the release of their landmark debut album, Carnavas, drawing favorable comparisons to one of the most beloved bands of the 90s, Smashing Pumpkins. The album’s first single “Lazy Eye” was an international smash, as they went on to score two Billboard Top 10 Modern Rock Tracks in 2007. Over the course of their next 3 LPs, Silversun Pickups’ sound evolved, and explored new sonic territory, and began to incorporate more electronic elements.

Their most recent album, 2015’s Better Nature has become a fan favorite, and considered an underrated classic by indie rock aficionados. Better Nature was also the first LP released on their own independent imprint New Machine Records, and was fan funded with a Pledge Music campaign, allowing the band the freedom to make this record entirely on their own terms. The sonic pallet of this record was showcased with the lead single “Nightlight” with its grinding guitars and epic chorus, the song was an exciting introduction to a new era for the band’s sound. Retaining all of the classic trademarks of their debut, but with a darker mood and more complex arrangements.

Better Nature’s second single “Circadian Rhythm (Last Dance)” was an infectious entry into the band’s catalog, with one of the groups most memorable melodies, and swooning interplay between Nikki and Brian’s beautifully complementary vocals. Over the span of the album’s ten tracks, the band hit some major highs, with some of their most beautiful moments and engrossing arrangements to date. The record, helmed by the production skills of Garret “Jacknife” Lee who has worked with U2, R.E.M. and The Cars, delivers an incredible analog experience. The album packs a punch, with diamond sharp clarity, expert mastering and incredible use of dynamic range. The album has a wonderful sense of space and breath, and avoids the trappings that many over-polished modern rock records seem to fall into. An album that could easily be classified as a sleeper classic, that is finding a greater audience with each passing year. However, there is no substitute for hearing it for the first time in its full analog glory on a high quality stereo console.

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Top 5 Essential Record Console Accessories

luno — Sat, 23 Jun 2018 21:32:06 +0000

If you’re new to the world of analog audio, or you’re buying your first turntable, there are a few essential record console accessories that will significantly enhance your listening experience and help you keep your favorite records sounding great for years. We’ve compiled our top 5 suggestions that will help newcomers to the world of vinyl records maintain their collection, while doing it in style.

GROOVEWASHER KIT

One thing that you learn when start buying vintage vinyl records is that you can greatly improve the playability and reduce unwanted noise when you remove dust and dirt with a quality cleaning kit. The GrooveWasher Kit includes everything you need to clean and maintain your vinyl collection. The GrooveWasher G2 Fluid is the result of years of research and testing. The selection of ingredients was guided by the formulations of the D series fluids of the 1970s. G2 is hydrophilic and non-reactive to PVC vinyl. G2 Fluid is designed for maximum cleaning effectiveness of the delicate vinyl surface and microgroove. Anti-static action on contact. Just honest cleaning to release the honest sound of the recording.

TOM CRATES VINYL STORAGE

These vinyl record storage crates not only look amazing, but they’re also portable so you can take your show on the road. Made from reclaimed White Oak, they feature dovetailed joints, a hand rubbed oil finish, and aged brass details and handles. Each crate can hold up to 50 records making it easy to pick up and move around or bring to a party. They have the ability to be stacked with built in dowels. The V cutout shape in the front allows you to proudly display your favorite records and flip through with ease.

FLIP TABLE TOP VINYL STORAGE

Displaying your records and having them look cool is half the battle; the other half is making sure that you store them in a way that doesn’t damage them. This simple storage solution is made of solid walnut and solid brass. It’s perfect to sit on top of your desk or credenza and makes flipping through your collection ever so easy. Choose your favorite records and add them to your everyday rotation.

BUCKLEY LISTENING CHAIR

We saved the best for last, if you want the ultimate listening experience, you need to hear your favorite album in one of the most comfortable listening chairs you will ever come across. The Buckley Listening Chair is like reclining on a bed of marshmallows while floating on a fine leather cloud. It’s built with the speaker height in mind, and positioned for you the get the maximum listening experience, so kick back with a glass of whiskey and enjoy your favorite record! Ottoman included. One of our all time favorite record console accessories.

JAX VINYL STORAGE UNIT

When your vinyl habit starts to become an issue, and you realize you’re spending more time flipping through stacks at Amoeba Records or Record Surplus than with your family and friends. You’re going to need an appropriately decorative way to begin to disguise your addiction, and the mass proliferation of amazing records taking over your house. This stunning modern storage unit is for the serious and stylish collector holding up to 500 records. Made from exotic Zebrawood with black lacquered legs, it’s a one of kind showstopping item that will hold a large record collection with sophistication. Custom finishes & sizes available.

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Best Record Stores In Los Angeles

luno — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 23:16:18 +0000

Los Angeles is home to some of the best record stores in the world, whether you’re looking for classic vinyl, rare white labels or some of the most obscure indie label releases, there’s an excellent chance that you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for here. Although the era of the large chain record store for better or worse ended with the iconic tower records closure. Now, in their wake, a vibrant scene of unique vinyl retailers, both new and vintage, each with a unique vibe and identity. These outposts are the last bastions keeping the tradition of listening to music in the physical analog medium alive. They remind us about how special the experience of hearing the full dynamic range of an analog LP is; what an exciting experience listening from first track to last in one sitting can be, and how much using your imagination and being inspired by the full size album art can add to the listening experience.

AMOEBA RECORDS HOLLYWOOD

Hands down the world’s largest independent record store, and a mecca for vinyl record lovers the world over. The amazing thing about this store is that no media format is a dead format here. The large vinyl record stacks sit along side CDs, cassettes, 8-tracks and even the odd sony mini-disc. They also carry the largest selection of current new vinyl LP releases I have personally come across in my travels. Not to mention they consistently have one of the best rosters of in-store concerts, bringing in a wide range of artists from Dungen to Paul McCartney, who all take part in their weekly free concerts.

RECORD SURPLUS

Record Surplus makes our list as they’re another awesome record shop with a massive selection that rivals that of Amoeba Records. However where Record Surplus has the edge, is that they have some incredible vintage finds at some of the lowest prices you’re going to find at a physical store.

VACATION VINYL

Vacation Vinyl has one of the best curated selections of vinyl in Los Angeles, catering primarily to the tastes of those who enjoy the full spectrum of indie, punk, industrial, goth and metal. Now calling a new location home off Santa Monica, they still deliver one of the coolest selections of music in the city. The team at Vacation have some of the most in-depth knowledge about the albums and artists they sell, and is a great place to go to have a conversation about your favorite micro-genre or band that you’ve assumed you were the only one who had heard.

PERMANENT RECORDS

Permanent Records has become another beloved fixture in Los Angeles’ music scene, not only selling some of the coolest records you’ll find in the city, but they also play host to some of the best in-store live performances we’ve seen. They also run their own imprint and have released records by Martin Rev, Frankie and The Witch and many others.

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Post Malone – Stoney – Modern Classic Vinyl | LUNO

luno — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 02:23:42 +0000

It’s hard to believe that it was just two years ago that Post Malone released Stoney, launching his career into the stratosphere of the hip-hop world, and making a major splash for his first introduction into the mainstream. The record’s notoriety after its release has grown since its debut, and has resonated with its audience in a way that few recent records have been able to achieve, especially for an artist that hasn’t been given the major label marketing push that many of the top-40 mainstays receive.

On tracks like “No Option” and “Leave,” Post Malone showcases his vibe at its best, laid back, with a voice that doesn’t 100% fit the mold of other current artists in trap. It almost has a throwback 90s feel to it in some ways, but there is a deeper level he achieves with his tracks than the typical throwback party anthem. There’s another dimension of depth that seems to be resonating with his fans, an emotional chord that he effortlessly strikes on almost every track from Stoney. While he is rooted purely in hip-hop, one of his other passions is emo music, and this complexity is on full display on tracks that strike a balance of his two favorite worlds like “I Fall Apart.”

Whereas the traditional function of emo music is pure catharsis and release of angst for its listener, there’s a perspective that comes across in Post Malone’s lyrics and delivery that almost achieves celebratory heights. There are other artists in trap that display an emotional complexity, but this usually comes across as a representation of the binary, either party anthems or slow jams. But its the nuance and his turn of phrase displayed, unusual word usage paired with his voice and delivery that makes this debut what it is. The record was even able to withstand a guest appearance from Justin Bieber, which actually is one of his best cameos, and sees him blending into the Post Malone aesthetic.

This record is well produced and sounds excellent in its vinyl format, and is an exciting journey from first track to last. Make no mistake this album is primarily a trap record, but Post Malone is one of the first who has taken this extremely minimal sonic pallet, and woven it into a flow that pushes this genre into new territory, to become a genre defining work that will influence a flood of new talent entering the game.

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How To Create A Mid-Century Modern Listening Room | LUNO

luno — Wed, 04 Jul 2018 18:18:11 +0000

Having a space that was meant for entertaining, unwinding, enjoying a cocktail and listening to your favorite records was an essential part of a home for many years. The mid-century modern style shifted the focus of the centerpiece of this room to the stylish record consoles of the day. These beautiful audio cabinets had all of the stereo components you needed built in, and would serve as the family entertainment center. We wanted to make a guide to show how you can put together your own mid-century modern listening room with some of the pieces that we offer here at LUNO.

SELECT A STEREO CONSOLE

The stereo console is the centerpiece of the listening room, make no mistake it is an investment, but it’s meant to be an heirloom piece, and the hours of enjoyment that this sound system brings are priceless. Not to mention the style points that a piece like this brings to your home are off the charts! LUNO’s flagship model, EGB2, is a timely update of the classic record consoles of the 50’s and 60’s. The beautiful Mid Century inspired design, boutique minimalist turntable, pull out MiniBar and custom gold rimmed whiskey glasses effectively evoke the luxurious style and modernist design of the Mad Men era. Each EGB2 is crafted by skilled artisans and craftsmen in Los Angeles, CA using American Walnut and would undoubtedly be a conversation piece based on it’s stylish design alone.

FIND A MATCHING LISTENING CHAIR

Once you sit in a listening chair, you’ll realize why they were made, and you may not ever want to get up from it again. Our Buckley Listening Chair is the perfect companion piece for our consoles. Built with the speaker height in mind, it’s positioned for you the get the maximum listening experience, so kick back with a glass of whiskey and enjoy your favorite record! Ottoman included. No mid-century modern listening room is complete without one of these!

FIND STYLISH MID-CENTURY MODERN ACCESSORIES

Finding utility in accessories and room decor makes the piece all the more cool. This simple vinyl storage solution is made of solid walnut and solid brass. It’s perfect to sit on top of your desk or credenza and makes flipping through your collection ever so easy. Choose your favorite records and add them to your everyday rotation. When you start equipping your mid-century modern listening room you’ll recognize the value of having record storage that keeps a selection of your favorite vinyl LP’s accessible.

YOU CAN NEVER HAVE TOO MUCH RECORD STORAGE

Once your begin developing a vinyl record addiction, this storage solution and decorative piece will not only make sense, but it may save your life. This stunning modern storage unit is for the serious and stylish collector holding up to 500 records. Made from exotic Zebrawood with black lacquered legs, it’s a one of kind showstopping item that will hold a large record collection with sophistication. Custom finishes & sizes available. This is an essential item for any mid-century modern listening room!

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Classic Vinyl Album – Frank Zappa – Hot Rats | LUNO

luno — Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:28:51 +0000

This tribute to one of the all time greatest musicians, and in my opinion of of his finest albums, won’t even approach honoring this genius’ groundbreaking achievements or introduce him to you in a way in which he deserves. Frank Zappa’s music and his records can only be experienced, any attempts to classify or categorize him, or even describe what the experience of listening to Frank Zappa’s Hot Rats is like will fail miserably. There are so many places we could start with his prolific and amazing catalog of music, but because this is how I learned about him, and discovered what it was he was tapping into, it’s the only way I can leave you a bread crumb trail to explore what remains an extremely visionary recording almost 50 years after its original release. A record and artist so far ahead of his time, that many of us are just starting to catch on after all these years. Frank Zappa’s Hot Rats is an incredibly experimental work, that is almost classically symphonic in nature, and for some who pick up this amazing LP, they’ll liken it more to jazz and rock, but honestly it goes beyond and shatters the conventions of each of those styles, and somehow becomes one of the most immediate and dare I say addictive records you will ever purchase. There are moods and feelings showcased here that are so nuanced and beyond description that the only way to know what I’m talking about is to buy the original vintage analog vinyl album, if you partake in herbal refreshment no one is going to stop you, especially in the states of California, Washington and Colorado, and just clear you mind and be open to let the music take you on a journal unlike any that you’d expect or would be prepared for.

So now that I’ve exercised my evangelical style rant, it’s important for me to point out that this one album is just a drop in the bucket of one of the greatest catalogs of music ever released. His work with the legendary Mothers Of Invention, his collaborations with other incredible artists including Captain Beefheart, Don Van Vliet (who can be heard on Hot Rats), runs a staggering gamut of styles and genres, so much that there are times when you will experience disbelief that all of this music came from the same artist. Do yourself a favor, go out and buy a copy of Frank Zappa’s Hot Rats, play it on an a record console that will do it justice, and make today the first day of the rest of your life.

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5 Albums That Should Have Never Been Released On Vinyl I LUNO

luno — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 12:52:56 +0000

This list is going to ruin someone’s day. One man’s garbage is another man’s treasure, or so they say. But some piles of garbage are so massive, and so offensive, that they become billowing dumpster fires, and that’s what we’re looking at here. The insanity of this list is that some of these records did not get released originally on vinyl, and someone at a major label sat around and thought that we were sorely lacking in albums that will someday be used as psychological torture in hostage situations, and the agony should be delivered in full and pristine analog quality. The offenses of these artists are nothing short of sonic crimes against humanity, but this is by no means an exhaustive list of the worst, this is an extemporaneous list, that represents albums that made our team have a palpable cringe reflex. Please enjoy our first 5 picks for albums that should have never been released on vinyl, in no particular order:

30 Seconds To Mars – America

There’s nothing like the corporate world selling political ideas back to the people with a hollywood actor’s vanity project, that could maybe be the worst band ever to have charting singles. How the 30 Seconds To Mars train doesn’t derail itself after a decade plus of horrifying productivity is one of the last great mysteries. Pure nausea condensed into song form, filtered through vocoded trap vocals, with millennial whooping and lyrics that even Imagine Dragons would have left on the drawing board. My only wish in this life is for Jared Leto to get to hear his overproduced abominations through my ears. He should have quit while he was ahead with Frozen Embryos.

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Stadium Arcadium

“Dani California” should be the only words I need to use to describe the horror in store for those bold enough to unwrap this record from its plastic. If that doesn’t frighten you away, I will add “Snow (Hey Oh)” as damning evidence of the least effort ever put into a top 20 hit. Their history of musical crimes is long, and it spits in the face of very very few redeeming moments. But this album is the case of having 20 years plus of continually favoring their worst qualities, and constantly refining what makes your music annoying and churning out constant gut punches for fans who believed they had a few good songs sometime in the early 90s. When we wake up from the nightmare that has been the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the album that will have us screaming in a cold sweat will be Stadium Arcadium.

The Black Eyed Peas – The E.N.D.

As Satan welcomes you into hell you can hear some of the biggest hits of both Fergie and The Black Eyed Peas playing in the background. They do fortunately let you choose which song from this album will be played during your descent into madness.

Katy Perry – Witness

It’s hard to believe that someone would go to such great lengths to make Taylor Swift look like the John Lennon of our time. I have not had the displeasure of hearing this on vinyl, but the only format this should have been released on is self-deleting MP3 that automatically drag themselves to your garbage. Her constant illuminati symbology and odd sense of humor that doesn’t always lead to distinguishable jokes has finally reached full maturity on this record. I would say she’s past her prime, but unfortunately it looks like this album is the ultimate distillation of whatever it is that she does. If you have any questions about the assertions made in this review, please click here.

Hoobastank – Self Titled

If you had ever hoped for an infinitely less talented version of Incubus, fortune smiled upon you in the early 2000s. A band that was so benign, pointless and unnecessary that it makes you nostalgic for the edginess of the dad from Gossip Girl’s fake television band. I honestly am not sure if this band ever enjoyed writing our playing these songs, which is the correct emotional response to tracks like “The Reason” and the endless garbage that comprise the rest of the indistinguishable tracks of this album. Songs that seem to freeze time, and stretch it into eternity, which makes sense they are warning you with the infinity sign in their logo.

Cleanse your pallet with one of our classic album reviews here.

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