The Review Show : EP5
Your monthly musical catch-up from Now Spinning Magazine.
Nad Sylvan – Dr Feelgood – Sons of Mu – Warfare – Atomic Rooster – WAR – Renaissance – Tim Boniface – Jake Stephenson – Tim Durling (Nightranger Book) – Martin Tracey (Robin George Bio)
Welcome to the latest edition of The Review Show, your monthly musical catch-up from Now Spinning Magazine. Whether you’re here for classic reissues, fresh new voices, or intriguing rediscoveries, this episode has something for every music collector and listener alike. So, pour a cuppa, pull up a chair, and join me as I explore some of the standout releases that have landed at Now Spinning Towers over the last few weeks.
Hard Rock & Metal
Warfare – The Lemmy Sessions (1985/2024)
A heavy slab of mid-‘80s metal mayhem, featuring Lemmy and Fast Eddie Clarke. These rough mixes, recently unearthed by Evo himself, present a rawer, louder vision than the original polished 1985 release. With a Now Spinning Magazine connection through producer Wayne Maloney, this vinyl reissue is a gold-hued time capsule of aggression and intensity.
Symphonic Prog Rediscovered
Renaissance – Running Hard: The Albums 1974–1976 (4CD Box Set)
A beautifully curated reissue from Esoteric, collecting Turn of the Cards, Scheherazade and Other Stories, and the live Carnegie Hall set. Featuring extensive liner notes, photos, and fresh perspectives, this is a treasure for long-time fans and new listeners discovering Renaissance’s classical rock magic.
Reviving the Rooster
Atomic Rooster – Self-Titled (1980) 2CD Deluxe Edition
A curious reinvention during the NWOBHM era. More punky and urgent than expected, with a fantastic live set from The Marquee recorded on cassette. Surprisingly vibrant and energetic, this is a welcome return for a band once overlooked in their comeback phase.
Pastoral Prog with Personal Roots
Nad Sylvan – Monumentia
Nad opens his heart in this deeply personal progressive rock album, dedicated to and inspired by the loss of his parents. Musically lush and emotionally raw, it’s a standout release filled with light, shade, and soul.
Pub Rock Perfection
Dr. Feelgood – Down by the Jetty (Mono Remaster)
A blast of R&B energy from 1974, captured in glorious mono. This reissue remains vital and gritty—essential listening for anyone wanting to hear the roots of punk and pub rock authenticity.
Psychedelia with an Edge
Sons of Mu– Are You Tired of Being Human?
A fascinating blend of psychedelic groove, punk attitude, and space rock ambition. On white vinyl from Skidmark Records, this was a surprise standout—fans of Hawkwind, The Fall, and Fruits de Mer-style acts take note.
Reflective Jazz with a Spiritual Touch
Tim Boniface – Themes for Peace
A sax-driven suite inspired by the Psalms, blending meditative calm with joyful uplift. Recorded for a performance at St. Orin’s Cathedral, this spiritual jazz release is full of warmth and emotional depth.
Ambient Soundscapes
Jake Stephenson & Friends – Alternate Realms (3CD Set)
More than just an expanded edition of the vinyl version—this ambient journey is beautifully sequenced and supports epilepsy research. A moving posthumous tribute to a unique artist.
Books for the Collector’s Shelf
Robin George – Heartline (Authorized Biography)
A comprehensive tribute to the late Robin George, full of rare photos and passionate contributions from those who knew and loved his music.
Tim Durling – Sing Me Away: The Story of Night Ranger
A detailed, affectionate look at every Night Ranger album. I was honoured to write the foreword for this one!
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
