Few people are onto great records as quickly as a great record store.
Phonica’s end of year lists are always a treasure trove for undersung gems, so we realised we ought to just give the shop’s learned staff their own slot on FACT. Every Saturday, the team behind the counter at the Soho institution select five vinyl records you should pick up this week.
NOT WAVING
Animals LP
(Diagonal)
The “worst-kept secret in London-based computer acid” steps up to Powell’s Diagonal label with a belter of an album. If you like EBM, techno and wavy bangers, this one’s essential.
MOOMIN
A Minor Thought LP
(Smallville)
Moomin is back with his second album on Smallville, and it’s as charming as the first. A masterclass in dreamy, delicate deep house that reinforces his position as one of Germany’s best producers.
WOO
Awaawaa LP
(Palto Flats)
Archival label Palto Flats continues its killer run of form with Awaawaa, a collection of unreleased tracks from cult UK duo Woo. Combining elements of kosmische with classic British psychedelia, it’s a treat for fans of vintage electronics.
FINIS AFRICAE
Amazonia LP
(EM Records)
Finis Africae’s 1990 Balearic classic Amazonia gets reissued courtesy of EM. If you’re a fan of the music of Jon Hassell and Brian Eno, this under-the-radar Spanish gem is worth investigating.
ARTIST UNKNOWN
Oh Sh#t / Deviant 12″
(Misfit Melodies)
Running Back offshoot Misfit Melodies returns with a white label of upfront house bangers. Fans of big basslines and ravey 90s piano chords should jump on this before it’s gone.
