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Spooling through the world’s best tapes
Among drone-folk trips and joyously messed up noise jazz, Daryl Worthington finds the cassette scene has taken a political turn, whether immersive electronics fighting for free time, nostalgia-busting collages, or colonialism attacking text-sound compositions
Daryl Worthington speaks to a tape label expanding the possibilities of footwork, and reviews some of the most intriguing tapes of the Autumn, from world-building electronics to light triggered synthesis and a trumpet/cello/drums power trio
Daryl Worthington speaks to Constellation Tatsu about a decade of releasing music on tape, and looks at some of the most exciting music on cassette this month, from Paraguayan harp to paranormal cut-ups, four track riots to glistening synths and brutal electronics
Surveying more music from the French fringes, David McKenna looks forward to two shows at Cafe OTO this month and delivers your essential guide to an array of new rap, folk and experimental releases. Homepage photo, Erwan Keravec by Atelier Marge Design
A collaboration between psychedelic French band PoiL and Japanese traditional musician Junko Ueda, inspired by a 12th century sea battle and its aftermath, resulted in not one, but two of the best albums of last year. Ahead of a performance at Tremor Festival next month, they speak to David McKenna
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor was the first musician of colour to become a superstar in 20th century Britain, says Phil Hebblethwaite, and then he all but disappeared from view. Who was he and why is it taking so long for us to recognise what he achieved, against impossible odds?