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“Well travelled in my life got the maddest mileage…”

One year on from the release of ‘Mantra No. 9’, Fliptrix returns with his tenth solo album ‘Dragonfly’.

Written and recorded off grid in the Portuguese mountains and produced in full by the Leigh Brothers (Leaf Dog & Illinformed), ‘Dragonfly’ is Fliptrix’s lightning in a bottle moment; a series of life-changing events compelling Fliptrix to hole up in the studio to capture the true essence of his recent experiences in real time.

The result is his most alive offering to date; handbrake fully off, emotions and energies dialled up to 11 across 14-tracks. Each unpacking a tumultuous year which included the birth of his daughter and unexpected passing of his father, all this while navigating the ever-shifting music scene he has championed for so many years as the founder of High Focus Records and 1/4 of supergroup The Four Owls.

Exploring the connections between the natural landscape and the spirit world, the dragonfly as a totem to the other, but more poignantly, in the fact that Fliptrix’s late father played drums in his own rock band of the same name in the 1970’s, ‘Dragonfly’ carries a personal weight that sets it apart from his previous album offerings, Fliptrix delving deeper than ever before; incredible highs paired with moments of introspection, reflection and mourning as he searches for meaning in the songs that he writes.

And with a stunning feature courtesy of psychedelic RnB superstar Greentea Peng on huge single ‘Cosmic Scenes’, ‘Dragonfly’ is the perfect body of work to round off Fliptrix’s canon of ten solo albums, spanning seventeen years (and counting) of music making at the very top of the scene.

“Introvert” is an expansive piece of music that begins with a mighty orchestral fanfare and doesn’t let up as Simz peels off bars that grapple with fear, frustration, and possibility on both a personal and more universal level. “My speech ain’t involuntary,” Simz raps, “Project with intention straight from my lungs/I’m a black woman and I’m proud one/We walk in blind faith not knowing the outcome/But as long as we unified then we’ve already won.”

Sometimes I Might Be Introvert follows Little Simz’s 2019 album, Grey Area. Simz produced the album with her regular collaborator Inflo, and it will feature guest appearances from Cleo Sol, Obongjayar, and even The Crown star Emma Corrin.

Lewis Parker continues to dig deeper and get stronger in ways, on his most recent addition to his impressive and wide body of work. 20 plus releases into his career, Parker goes in from the opening bars of his new LP ‘Frequency of Perception’. The veteran producer and rapper comes in hot, clearly rooted in his ideas and views, wasting no time dropping knowledge and his opinions on social issues, current rappers, and the rap industry itself. The prolific UK-born hip-hop legend proves to be as tapped into the feel of a pocket as he was when he came on the scene in the 90s. “All I Got”, the album’s first single, has a groove to the bassline that you won’t forget and keeps the delivery of Parker’s bars moving. The spacey keys show themselves early in the record and are a constant that gives the record a dreamy feel, adding mystical and psychedelic energy. “All My Life” is a well-executed balance between the energy found in the flute production and the smooth vocal hook on the tune. Keeping the progressions in check, but also allowing it to maintain a free spirit. That spirit is complemented by features by Eloh Kush and John Robinson, on the track. Other feature appearances on the record include Planet Asia, who is a familiar collaborator of Parker’s, and once again delivers a notable performance on “Thug Livin”. The bar is high whenever these two come together on a record, collectively with nearly 50 years of experience, it feels as if they communicate on another level when creating together. The whole album touches on dynamics in line with the iconic sound that Parker built his reputation on for decades. All while finding new ways to tell stories, not just through his own lyrics, but further exploring instrumentation. Lewis remains consistent in his craft, continuing to cook up beats and productions with classic techniques and fresh ingredients. There is no sense of reaching, the productions exude an attitude that reaps a true passion for his craft.

Jam Baxter, Dabbla and GhostTown return to complete the Dead Players trilogy this September.

‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ expertly represents the most recent chapter in a decade (or more) of music making from the trio. Born in Soul-2-Soul’s old studio, turned legendary squat, in Holloway, North London, before evolving into a collaboration from three different corners of the globe (Baxter living in Mexico City, Dabbla hopping around Europe and GhostTown settled in sunny Yorkshire) ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ celebrates evolution, while staying true to the previous iterations of the Dead Players universe.

Collaborating from distance can have its pitfalls, however, this isn’t Dead Players first rodeo. Once the blueprint was established, Dabbla and GhostTown flew out to Mexico to be in the same timezone as Baxter; finalising songs, shooting videos and eating tamales at the summit of ancient temples all vital parts of the album process.

The result? A pitch perfect listen that emphatically completes the triptych. ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ is a powerful reminder of the Dead Players universe; a joyride back down the rabbit hole where everything sparkles crimson and green, streetlights bouncing off the side of the getaway car, Baxter and Dabbla’s inimitable lyricism expertly propped up by GhostTown’s thunderous production across 13-tracks.

Speaking on the release, Dabbla explained…

“This album was made with love across time zones and territories. We almost killed ourselves making it. It might be our last, it might not, one thing is for sure, it’s the best Dead Players album yet…”

Brand new 19 track album by BVA - The Dam Builder, which is entirely produced by Leaf Dog and features Benny the Butcher, Leaf Dog, Verb T & Ramson Badbonez.

Releasing now for well over a decade - Neue Grafik: known to friends as Fred, has successfully transplanted from Parisian rookie to one- man London Institution. Beginning as a solo producer and DJ,Fred spread his wings upon relocating to South London - at first with his Neue Grafik Ensemble and later with his now iconic twice-weekly Orii Jam - the latter of which has given agency to an entire new generation of musicians; spawning an aesthetic, nurturing a unique sound and becoming a launchpad for countless artists.

Dalston Tape Volume 1 is Fred’s attempt to fall back in love with beatmaking - taking it back to the roots of where the project began. I say “attempt” because he’s simply learnt too much and made too many friends along the way to make a mere DIY beat tape. Since his early MPC-led productions on Parisian label, Beat X Changers, Fred has learnt to play the keys to a concert hall standard, he has become proficient in double bass and built up a dense network of collaborators who he has composed, recorded, engineered and produced for both at home in SE London and in the iconic Total Refreshment Centre Studios in Dalston.

This experience adds unavoidable dimensions to his toolbox - resulting in something more akin to a miniature-magnum-opus than a simple beat-tape.

Yes, we hear the influences of Pete Rock, Mad Lib, J Dilla and Al Dobson Jr but we also hear the musicality of D’Aneglo, James Blake and live contributions from an ever growing army of young graduates of the Orii School.

We are very very pleased to come up with the exclusive vinyl pressing of "Escape Music", a heavy 19 track album from Manchester's The Mouse Outfit with such vocal guests like Dr. Syntax, Sparkz, Dubbul O, Fox and Black Josh.

Take your time and check out the official videos to a few certified bangers off the album and you'll know why we are so damn enthusiastic about this release.

London Calling 2008: great dubstep, grime, digital dancehall tracks feat. Warrior Queen, Spaceape, Flowdan of Roll Deep Crew, Tippa Irie, ... highly recommended!

Jam Baxter, Dabbla and GhostTown return to complete the Dead Players trilogy this September.

‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ expertly represents the most recent chapter in a decade (or more) of music making from the trio. Born in Soul-2-Soul’s old studio, turned legendary squat, in Holloway, North London, before evolving into a collaboration from three different corners of the globe (Baxter living in Mexico City, Dabbla hopping around Europe and GhostTown settled in sunny Yorkshire) ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ celebrates evolution, while staying true to the previous iterations of the Dead Players universe.

Collaborating from distance can have its pitfalls, however, this isn’t Dead Players first rodeo. Once the blueprint was established, Dabbla and GhostTown flew out to Mexico to be in the same timezone as Baxter; finalising songs, shooting videos and eating tamales at the summit of ancient temples all vital parts of the album process.

The result? A pitch perfect listen that emphatically completes the triptych. ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ is a powerful reminder of the Dead Players universe; a joyride back down the rabbit hole where everything sparkles crimson and green, streetlights bouncing off the side of the getaway car, Baxter and Dabbla’s inimitable lyricism expertly propped up by GhostTown’s thunderous production across 13-tracks.

Speaking on the release, Dabbla explained…

“This album was made with love across time zones and territories. We almost killed ourselves making it. It might be our last, it might not, one thing is for sure, it’s the best Dead Players album yet…”

UK rap legend Mr Key returns alongside Illinformed with flash album KEZ.

12" Black Gatefold Vinyl w/ 12-Page Comic Book ~ Limited TO 250 Copies!

After yet another extended hiatus, Mr Key is back with an unexpected concept album that combines tongue-in-cheek Viz mag humour, razor sharp lyricism, and pitch perfect boom bap production, to paint a surreal technicolour portrait of life amongst the freaks at the glorious, grotty edges of society.

Cutting his teeth as 1/5 of UK hip hop supergroup Contact Play, which he followed with two acclaimed experimental segues alongside Greenwood Sharps, Mr Key’s musical journey has been far from mundane. His new flash release - ‘kez’ - a concept album which documents the rise of a plucky kestrel through an off-grid anarchist commune - 'Bene' - populated by an ensemble cast of misfits, lost souls, drug dealers, new age healers, and would be cult leaders, is without doubt the weirdest and most wonderful twist yet.

´kez´ is a kaleidoscopic offering which diffracts the four years Mr Key spent in a chaotic off-grid commune in Southern Spain through the conceptual lens of cinematic New York golden age classics like ‘Only Built 4 Cuban Linx’ and ‘Prince Among Thieves’; the zero f**ks given energy of Contact Play and early era High Focus, and the foul mouthed British surrealism epitomised by Monty Python and Viz magazine. Such a strange concoction could easily miss the mark, but in the hands of a trio of veterans - Key, Illinformed and cartoonist Monsta - the results are as exceptional as they are unique.

With features from Dirty Dike, Jam Baxter, Ronnie Bosh, Smellington Piff, Leaf Dog, BVA and Sammy B-Side, and art from longtime friend and collaborator Monsta bringing the story to life at the crumbling edges of modernity.

While most spend their days wading through the treacly undercurrents of a decaying hometown, Jam Baxter spends his days carving out on a new existence in the heart of Mexico City.

With a forest of rare succulents of house plants on his eighth floor balcony, a notepad in his back pocket (for lizard spotting) and a flea market typewriter primed in his writing room, Baxter affords himself the time and grace for his new surroundings to seep into him, watching his writing take on new life in the exchange; days and nights spent in quiet contemplation as he sharpens his skills in unpacking the universe.

Granuja has eschewed the at-times chaotic metropolis of Medellín for a quiet life in the hills of La Ceja, where he produces and writes (followed around by his pack of loyal dogs). Six years since his debut solo LP ‘Círculo Vicioso’ dropped back in 2017, Granuja has been steadily carving a name for himself in Latin America and beyond with a series of critically acclaimed rap releases.

Baxter & Granuja first met in 2020; the former taking an impromptu 2-hour taxi cab in thickest night to Granuja’s studio way up in the winding hills of Antióquia. As with all great creative endeavours, plans to record ‘a couple of tracks’ snowballed; a single became an EP became an album, the momentum fuelled by a new Jack Danz’ instrumental landing in Baxter’s inbox every fortnight.

Before sunrise the bones of ’De las Sombras’ were born.

There is no question that Granuja and Baxter bring out a different side of one another. The two artists hopping borders, barriers and time zones; switching languages as often as they switch flows across an album unified by an all-encompassing sense of doom.

At its core, ‘De las Sombras’ is a gothic listen. A haunting, swooning downward spiral. Blacks, whites, purples and greens bubbling a thick concoction. Life and death at loggerheads in the back-and-forth; expertly soundtracked by Jack Danz most haunting works to date and complemented by a series of curated vocal samples furthering the gloom.

We like to think of ’De las Sombras’ as an OST for the album artwork. The castle a picture perfect symbol of an album persistently flirting with the supernatural.

UK rap legend Verb T returns with ‘The Tower Where The Phantom Lives’, a mesmerising new LP that sits alongside the most enlightened and adventurous in his glittering discography.

Bound by a set of contrasting emotions and energies; fiction and fantasy wrestling with everyday curveballs, ‘The Tower Where The Phantom Lives’ showcases Verb T at his razor sharp best. It is the wisest version of Verb T to date; complemented by the wonderfully melodic production of Vic Grimes, the Canadian producer proving to be the perfect ally for Verbs to deconstruct the world at large, his magnifying glass growing more-and-more forensic as each track unfolds.

Mental exploration, self deprecating humour, didactic story telling woven together by haunting movie samples, ‘The Tower Where The Phantom Lives’ listens like an OST; each track / scene propping up a wonderful narrative arc; Verb T the lead role and Vic Grimes the composer of their very own psychological thriller, extreme highs and lows eventually settling into a contemplative groove on final track (and lead single) ‘Your Heart Deserves’.

Here's the all new The Mouse Outfit album with guest appearances by IAMDDB, Black Josh, Dubbul O, Sparkz, Dr. Syntax and many more. Another quality release by one of our favorite UK crews. Tip!

High Focus Records regular and member of UK rap super group The Four Owls, Verb T has joined forces with production wizard Pitch 92 for the new album ‘Good Evening’. Pitch, who has spent the past few years as the musical mastermind behind the award winning
Mouse Outfit collective has excelled himself on this release bringing to the table a delectable selection of funk & soul infused bangers serving as the perfect backdrop for Verb T to unleash his smooth brand of thoughtful lyrics and hooks.
Having spent 3 years writing for ‘Good Evening’ Verb T has put forward some of his most personal rhymes to date, delivered with a new found passion that sees the veteran build on a body of work that stretches back to the days of Low Life Records and now sees him as a major part of the ever expanding High Focus Records movement. The album features guest vocals from UK giants Ocean Wisdom, Jehst, DRS, Fliptrix, BVA, King Kashmere of Strange U, Sparkz, Black Josh, Rye Shabby, Confucious MC and Moreone.
Individually, Verb T and Pitch 92 have accomplished a huge amount, however with ‘Good Evening’ both artists have put forward arguably the best work of their careers. Built from scratch with the live show element in mind, this album really feels like a party, Good Evening! Enjoy!

Nice remixes of Mobb Deep, Raekwon, MOP, Children Of The Corn, Black Moon, Camp Lo and many more!

Pitch, Chini and Defty present the follow-up to the well-received "Escape Music" album with features by Sparkz, Verb T, Fox, Dr. Syntax, Truthos Mufasa, Dubbul O, Jman, Ellis Meade, T-Man & Cutterz!

Jam Baxter, Dabbla and GhostTown return to complete the Dead Players trilogy this September.

‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ expertly represents the most recent chapter in a decade (or more) of music making from the trio. Born in Soul-2-Soul’s old studio, turned legendary squat, in Holloway, North London, before evolving into a collaboration from three different corners of the globe (Baxter living in Mexico City, Dabbla hopping around Europe and GhostTown settled in sunny Yorkshire) ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ celebrates evolution, while staying true to the previous iterations of the Dead Players universe.

Collaborating from distance can have its pitfalls, however, this isn’t Dead Players first rodeo. Once the blueprint was established, Dabbla and GhostTown flew out to Mexico to be in the same timezone as Baxter; finalising songs, shooting videos and eating tamales at the summit of ancient temples all vital parts of the album process.

The result? A pitch perfect listen that emphatically completes the triptych. ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ is a powerful reminder of the Dead Players universe; a joyride back down the rabbit hole where everything sparkles crimson and green, streetlights bouncing off the side of the getaway car, Baxter and Dabbla’s inimitable lyricism expertly propped up by GhostTown’s thunderous production across 13-tracks.

Speaking on the release, Dabbla explained…

“This album was made with love across time zones and territories. We almost killed ourselves making it. It might be our last, it might not, one thing is for sure, it’s the best Dead Players album yet…”

Brand new 19 track album by BVA - The Dam Builder, which is entirely produced by Leaf Dog and features Benny the Butcher, Leaf Dog, Verb T & Ramson Badbonez.

LP+CD+7"

Tkay Maidza, the first female rapper signed to 4AD, announces details of her highly anticipated new album, Sweet Justice. The follow-up to her 2016 self-titled debut will be released on 3 November and includes the recent Flume-produced earth-shuddering single ‘Silent Assassin’. Today, Tkay shares a blistering new track, ‘Ring-A-Ling’ and official video directed by Jocelyn Anquetil.

“I’m never choosing compliance,” a defiant Maidza utters ‘Ring-A-Ling’; a warning from the Zimbabwean-born, Australian-raised, Los Angeles-based rapper, singer and producer and a mantra for Sweet Justice. Produced by Two Fresh, Tkay says of ‘Ring-A-Ling’, “I wanted to make an empowering song that tells others that my biggest focus are my goals.”

The result of a dark night of the soul—and ensuing epiphany—that led to a series of professional and personal reckonings, Sweet Justice isn’t a revenge album, but it does stem from a profound sense of karma. In a traditional sense, it’s a breakup record: about Tkay splitting off from her self-doubt and warped sense of self; the toxic figures that populated the last chapter of her life; and the idea that she should stick to any one lane.

After severing ties with old friends, she found some new ones on the same creative wavelength: Canadian producers Stint and Kaytranada, and fellow Australian Flume, all of whom contribute production. Sweet Justice is an album that embodies the beautiful contradictions of Tkay’s art: it’s a coming-of-age record by someone who’s mastered the game; an album about karmic justice and accountability that’s bright, breezy and incredibly fun. In Tkay’s mind, it’s a rebirth album, a record about harnessing the feminine power that was innate in her the whole time.

Tkay Maidza says, “Sweet Justice was a way for me to channel my emotions from what I’ve experienced in the last two years. It’s a diary of things and thoughts I’ve kept to myself. Making the record was a healing experience and I’m grateful to have worked with producers who have inspired me throughout my career.” Sweet Justice follows the 3-year-long, 24 song-strong genre-bending Last Year Was Weird trilogy exploring Maidza’s own African-Australian experience. The project earned her a 2021 ARIA Awards win for Best Soul/R&B Release and an NME Award for Best Solo Act From Australia in 2022. Following on from tours with Billie Eilish and Dua Lipa, Tkay is currently in the southern hemisphere for arena shows with Lizzo with her own headline shows to be announced soon.

The Four Owls highly acclaimed classic album 'Nature's Greatest Mystery' produced by Leaf Dog. The album features such classic as 'Life In The Balance, Not Like Before & Much To Much and features Dirty Dike, Jam Baxter & Q-Unique. This album made waves the world over and is a must have for any collector or Hip Hop fan!

Limited edition repress on orange splatter vinyl, full colour 350gsm reverse board sleeve. 14 track LP over 2 discs. Shrink wrapped.

Run of 500 vinyl.

"Every album is a reflection of where I am currently; reflecting on the past, projecting to the future…”

Fliptrix earmarked a nine album run when he released his first solo offering back in 2007. The highest numeral has always played a significant part in Fliptrix’s appreciation of the universe, so it always felt a fitting number to aspire to.

Fast forward sixteen years and Fliptrix finds himself where he always hoped to be; gearing up to reveal his ninth album ‘Mantra No. 9’ to the world.

As an artist committed to spreading positivity, sharing light and love through his music, and with a clear focus on inspiring his fans to achieve what they want in life through the messages he champions, ‘Mantra No. 9’ is as potent an example of these driving forces from Fliptrix to date; written and recorded in his new studio, off-grid, deep in the Portuguese mountains he now calls home.

After a year long break from writing, ‘Mantra No. 9’ sees Fliptrix more focussed and reactive than ever. Contemplating his immediate and speaking on the profound impact his new surroundings have had on him as both a person and musician, the album is truly from the source; interwoven by escapism, solitude, nature (and the chaotic world events that saw him embark on a new life chapter in the first place).

In celebration of the journey, ‘Mantra No. 9’ sees Fliptrix reconnect with the classic sonics that defined his earlier output, calling upon an all-star list of production and feature talent from the High Focus roster to help him on his way.

18-tracks, showcasing the evolution of the artist, each reaffirming why Fliptrix is regarded as one of the most valuable and forward-thinking voices in the hip hop movement today.

Jam Baxter, Dabbla and GhostTown return to complete the Dead Players trilogy this September.

‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ expertly represents the most recent chapter in a decade (or more) of music making from the trio. Born in Soul-2-Soul’s old studio, turned legendary squat, in Holloway, North London, before evolving into a collaboration from three different corners of the globe (Baxter living in Mexico City, Dabbla hopping around Europe and GhostTown settled in sunny Yorkshire) ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ celebrates evolution, while staying true to the previous iterations of the Dead Players universe.

Collaborating from distance can have its pitfalls, however, this isn’t Dead Players first rodeo. Once the blueprint was established, Dabbla and GhostTown flew out to Mexico to be in the same timezone as Baxter; finalising songs, shooting videos and eating tamales at the summit of ancient temples all vital parts of the album process.

The result? A pitch perfect listen that emphatically completes the triptych. ‘Faster than The Speed of Death’ is a powerful reminder of the Dead Players universe; a joyride back down the rabbit hole where everything sparkles crimson and green, streetlights bouncing off the side of the getaway car, Baxter and Dabbla’s inimitable lyricism expertly propped up by GhostTown’s thunderous production across 13-tracks.

Speaking on the release, Dabbla explained…

“This album was made with love across time zones and territories. We almost killed ourselves making it. It might be our last, it might not, one thing is for sure, it’s the best Dead Players album yet…”

Unlike countless previous campaigns for his established labels Finders Keepers, Twisted Nerve and various other imprints, Andy Votel hasn’t come here today to try to persuade you to buy his latest record. From the quietest stall on a very niche market these late-to-the party U.K rap recordings simply Needed to be released, for sanity’s sake. And if it’s taken 30 years to do so, then so be it. Dirty laundry doesn’t air at the bottom of the basket. Demons don’t exorcise themselves. Even if you’re not a feline fan, this cat is now out of the bag. Emanating from a “prehistoric” existence, near the end of the last millennium, schoolies Votel and his slightly older college mates, were once best recognised in Mancunian clubs and bars as teenage vinyl nerds and bum-fluffed battle-rappers under the collective name “Violators Of The English Language” (which in acronymic form explains Andy’s own exotic pen-name). As steadfast supporters of the 80’s/90’s Brit-core rap scene coming out of London, the multicultural “Violators...” Mancunian accents were perhaps a bridge-too-far to secure dream-job contracts for humble labels like Kold Sweat and Music Of Life. An unlikely constructive meeting with Gang Starr’s DJ Premier (while Andy helped out at a radio station) and playing warm up DJ sets for countless US rap hero’s might have temporarily added inspirational fuel to the fire, but after an active period combining graffiti, rapping, scratching, obsessive record digging and beat making into their daily operations, adulthood eventually began to rear its unwelcome head. The tragic teenage death of one member was shortly followed by another’s young parental commitments, and then came the concept of “proper jobs”, an avenue that Andy would then partly evade by becoming a DJ and designer for labels like Fat City and Grand Central (who soon invested interest in the crews instrumentals) and the next chapter is now committed to a fertile Discogs database history. A decade later Andy Votel (with his reluctant moniker) and his digging skills would begin to provide direct sample material for the likes of Madlib, Mos Def, JayZ, Nas, Dr Dre, Ghostface Killa and Action Bronson amongst others, and the “Violators…” black book of break-beats and catalog numbers soon began to feed a same-but-different rap beast.

Verbz & Mr Slipz team up with drum and bass legend Alix Perez on the remix of stand-out single ’The Rain’, lifted from their acclaimed LP ‘Radio Waves’, released on High Focus Records back in 2020.

With a fever dream vocal hook from avant-garde / Berlin-based vocalist Riah Knight elevating the offering to even greater heights, ‘The Rain Rmx’ offers up a looking glass to the world as Verbz sees it; a deep palette of blues and greys emanating from his committed multi-syllables, punctuated by bright sparks of colour courtesy of Mr Slipz’ expertly curated sample-work and Alix Perez’s rolling rhythms and basslines.

With Summer 2022 in full swing, ‘The Rain Rmx’ offers up a different, reflective viewpoint to the anthems running riot across festival season. The track feels like a perfectly balanced short film, and cements both Alix Perez’ and Mr Slipz’ reputations as expert music makers and Verbz and Riah Knight as valuable voices in uncertain times.

Finally, we have it in our hands. The long overdue 6 Track Monster EP by Franky Roar (Hamburg Hardcore City) and Alikazam (of Dookie Squad). 6 superdope tracks bringing together the classic Hardcore HipHop / Britcore Vibe in a modern way, 666% our cup of tea with hevay features by DJ Specifik (of B-Line Recordings), Mr.Memory (of Dookie Squad), Chrome (of Def Tex / Chrome/ill Inspired), Mistha Bohze and DJ Krashslaughta (of Two Tone Committee), MC Oliver Twist, Whirlwind D (Solid ‘n’ Mind / B-Line Recordings) and Remark (of Deliveranc).

check the snippets here or on youtube, we are sure, you gonna love it as we do.

full picture cover with incredible Artwork by John Dyer.

This is the limited red vinyl edition with additional cover artwork once again made by the incredible Skat himself, only 100 made.

Finally, here it is, the hard to find 1995 “chapter two” demotape from 1995. Numskullz, Britcore Rawmance Records, Burning Anger Records and Underground United joined forces to put together the whole thing in the best possible way. Coming as a 14 track 2xLP in a beautiful full colour gatefold sleeve. Furious early 90ies classic Bristol UK HipHop History right here. Mastered by Rola himself.

All Artworks by Sam.

100 regular copies on black wax and 100 regular copies on red wax plus 25 testpress copies.

Vinyl includes A 2-Part Full-Colour Vaughn Bodé Panoramic Collage. 4 x VB Stickers (10x10mm), Frame-able Insert Print (300x300mm), 180gm Black Vinyl, Shrink-Wrapped Gatefold Sleeve.

Cookin Soul x Lord Apex
7 Inch vinyl with 4 tracks - The Bullshit / For all my Hustlers + Instrumental versions
Red colourway limited to 200 copies.

High Focus Records is proud to unveil the artwork for the forthcoming Verb T & Illinformed collaborative album: ‘The Land Of The Foggy Skies’, designed by Siou Escalon.

As you would expect from two of the hardest working artists in the UK rap game, Verb T & Illinformed have delivered a fitting sequel to the iconic 2015 release ‘The Man With The Foggy Eyes’. The pair have both raised the bar, taking their already incredible chemistry to new levels, as demonstrated with singles ‘Rotten Luck‘ & ‘New Paths‘.

An all encompassing cinematic opus, ‘The Land Of The Foggy Skies’ once again proves why Verb T is one of the most decorated MC’s in UK Hip Hop and why Illinformed is in a class of his own when it comes to production.

High Focus Records are proud to present the latest collaboration from Verb T and Illinformed.

Stranded in Foggy Times both continues and completes the trilogy that began back in 2015, with The Man with the Foggy Eyes, before broadening the horizons with last year’s release of The Land of the Foggy Skies. This final chapter returns to the same conceptual landscape as its predecessors, but also sees Verb T and Illinformed returning to a more classic approach to album making.

In spite of its concept, the Foggy Trilogy is something of a personal outpouring for Verb T, with the original aim being to vicariously discuss the trials and tribulations that play a part in his life, including his struggles with chronic illness and the feeling of alienation from leaving his hometown, while also reflecting on the state of the world as a whole.

As with the previous albums, Stranded in Foggy Times finds Illinformed moving away from the more rugged sound that has shrouded the British scene over the last few months, thanks to his collaborations with the likes of Datkid and Wish Master, instead providing Verb T with an arguably more mellow backdrop. From the string and piano driven introduction on Legacy, to the blissful head-nod vibes of the closing track, Blind Faith, the union between beats and rhymes sits at the perfect level.

The album also boasts one of the most impressive guestlists of the year, one that is very much a product of both players’ worlds. Thanks to Illinformed’s Bristol connection, there are features from the likes of Res One, Datkid, Leaf Dog, Smellington Piff and Chillman, as well as some locally sourced cuts from DJ Rogue. While on Verb T’s side of the fence, we have features from Rye Shabby and Moreone, along with a collaboration that reignites the same creative spark he found in his early days, as King Kashmere steps into the booth on Feeling Strange.

All in all, Stranded in Foggy Times does exactly what it sets out to do, by drawing the trilogy to a close while also providing insights into Verb T’s personal world and the world at large. The fact that it also happens to be one of the strongest rap albums of the year is the icing on the cake.

Jam Baxter's high in demand classic album 'The Gruesome Features' is finally back in
stock on limited edition double violet vinyl. Widely regarded as the crown jewel in his
discography so far, ‘The Gruesome Features’ is the perfect introduction to the mind
bending lyricism of Jam Baxter.
Featuring cult classics such as 'Brains' & 'Filet Mignon' and boasting feature verses and
production from an all star cast of UK Hip Hop legends, this album is not to be missed -
Especially not the second time around! With only 300 copies pressed up (and already
selling fast from our webstore), it would be wise to snap this one up before it disappears
FOREVER!
This is the second edition of the 2xLP pressing of this album. It was originally released in
2012 as an EP containing only a selection of the tracks available on the CD/Digital
version.

Sleaford Mods are one of the most important, politically charged and thought-provoking duos currently making their mark on the UK music scene and beyond. They are now poised to release their fifth studio album entitled ‘Eton Alive’ in February 2019. The album, which features 12 new tracks from the prolific artists, was recorded in Nottingham.
The record will be the first released on Jason and Andrew’s newly formed label ‘Extreme Eating’ and their first album since parting ways with Rough Trade Records.

Brand new album from legendary UK Grime / Hip Hop maestro!

His most striking offering to date, ‘Tears Of The Dragon’ is an evolutionary listen, Onoe staying true to the primordial pillars found in the DNA of all the great albums; love and lust, loss and heartbreak key players in an inspired narrative arc that sees Onoe reveal all about his recent past in unmistakeable fashion.

Having written a heap of songs and arranged a number of versions he was More than happy with, real life events saw Onoe return to the bones of the album, with a desire to create something truly timeless. As a result, he moved away from a mixtape mentality and began to carve out the real truth along a stricter, more considered sonic path, crystallising his experiences with an immediacy that makes the album even more unique.

Writing a love album made all the more sense after speaking directly to fans when touring Europe late last year. Stories of love, heartbreak, and the positive influence his music has in moments of extreme emotion became a driving force for Onoe when writing the record and constructing the arc…

“…everything is fine, then they break up, then follows the aftermath. Repeat.”

‘Tears Of The Dragon’ follows the same aesthetic that has become synonymous with Onoe’s universe. A tapestry of speeds and rhythms, nights and days, smooth and hardcore; expertly tied together by Onoe's love-fuelled source code.

15-tracks, with features from Lofty305, Ledbyher, Eter & 169 stalwart L-Zee Roselli, ‘Tears Of The Dragon’ really is an album for the ages.

As Onoe explains…

“I want this album to be my Michael Jackson ‘Thriller’ … I also listened to Prince a lot and would tell people my next album is gonna sound like Prince meets Max B at a Halloween party…”

Fliptrix’s debut LP has been pressed to vinyl a cool SIXTEEN years after its original release back in 2007, long before High Focus Records existed. A cult classic across 18-tracks, this limited run of 300 Black Vinyl will never be repressed.

While most spend their days wading through the treacly undercurrents of a decaying hometown, Jam Baxter spends his days carving out on a new existence in the heart of Mexico City.

With a forest of rare succulents of house plants on his eighth floor balcony, a notepad in his back pocket (for lizard spotting) and a flea market typewriter primed in his writing room, Baxter affords himself the time and grace for his new surroundings to seep into him, watching his writing take on new life in the exchange; days and nights spent in quiet contemplation as he sharpens his skills in unpacking the universe.

Granuja has eschewed the at-times chaotic metropolis of Medellín for a quiet life in the hills of La Ceja, where he produces and writes (followed around by his pack of loyal dogs). Six years since his debut solo LP ‘Círculo Vicioso’ dropped back in 2017, Granuja has been steadily carving a name for himself in Latin America and beyond with a series of critically acclaimed rap releases.

Baxter & Granuja first met in 2020; the former taking an impromptu 2-hour taxi cab in thickest night to Granuja’s studio way up in the winding hills of Antióquia. As with all great creative endeavours, plans to record ‘a couple of tracks’ snowballed; a single became an EP became an album, the momentum fuelled by a new Jack Danz’ instrumental landing in Baxter’s inbox every fortnight.

Before sunrise the bones of ’De las Sombras’ were born.

There is no question that Granuja and Baxter bring out a different side of one another. The two artists hopping borders, barriers and time zones; switching languages as often as they switch flows across an album unified by an all-encompassing sense of doom.

At its core, ‘De las Sombras’ is a gothic listen. A haunting, swooning downward spiral. Blacks, whites, purples and greens bubbling a thick concoction. Life and death at loggerheads in the back-and-forth; expertly soundtracked by Jack Danz most haunting works to date and complemented by a series of curated vocal samples furthering the gloom.

We like to think of ’De las Sombras’ as an OST for the album artwork. The castle a picture perfect symbol of an album persistently flirting with the supernatural.

Super Limited 'Cerise' Repress of Jam Baxter's 'The Gruesome Features'. First released in the summer of 2012, the LP remains one of Baxter's most celebrated projects to date.

With featured artists on every song (bar the first and last) and with a brilliantly curated list of production credits, 'The Gruesome Features' reads like an all-star list of UK talent...

CoN and KwAkE are Confucius MC and Kwake Bass. They share long and entwined histories with saxophonist and Native Rebel label owner Shabaka Hutchings, and with many of the incredible London musicians and producers who have emerged over the last decade.

Eyes In The Tower, their debut album released one year ago, was the second release on Shabaka Hutchings’ Native Rebel Recordings, where he invites friends and family to RAK Studios improvise around sketches he’s written specifically for the invited artists. A uniquely London evolution of classic hip hop, it was brewed for over a decade before being made in three days.

Two tracks from the album have now been remixed to celebrate the one year anniversary of the album: 15 Minutes gets reworked by Daisuke Tanabe and Dance In The Dark by Anja Ngozi.

Confucius MC has been embedded in UK hip hop since the early 2000s. He was the support of choice for Mos Def, and recently toured with UK hip hop stalwart Jehst.

Kwake Bass is musical director for Sampha and Kae Tempest. Behind the kit he has become the player of choice for travelling US heavyweights, playing with MF Doom, The Roots and Joey Bada$$, as well as UK major players Lianne La Havas and Mica Levi.

Due for release on July 28, 2023 on High Focus Records, a new collaborative LP ‘Sight Beyond Sight’ from the powerhouse trio of producer Mr Slipz with rappers Verbz & Nelson Dialect. This new LP is a continuation and culmination of the sounds heard on their previous records. The dynamic rhyming partnership of Nelson Dialect & Verbz going back and forth with relentless wordplay over the signature hard hitting drums & jazzy samples of Mr Slipz production. Showcasing a variety of moods throughout the record from neck snapping, classic rap joints like 'Strike Back’ & the album title track 'Sight Beyond Sight’ to more reflective & personal songs about loss and relationships heard on 'Homecoming’ or 'Beside Me’. To vivid storytelling and conceptual cuts like 'Cause and Effect’ Verbz and Nelson communicate the aspirations and the choices of young artists in the modern world like a roadmap any individual can reference; ‘Sight Beyond Sight’ truly offers something for every listener. There are notable features on the album including the deeply reflective cut 'Homecoming’ with Hiatus Kaiyote back up vocalist Jace XL on the chorus. There is also the blistering posse cut 'Starting 5’ featuring UK Hip Hop legend King Kashmere, NuphZed & Renelle 893, who recently signed to High Focus. Having already released critically acclaimed albums on the cult UK Hip Hop label High Focus, the anticipation is brewing and stage is set for another landmark release for the label from this exciting new trio with ‘Sight Beyond Sight’.

You know Krash Slaughta right? The man behind the recent wildly successful Doom/Sugacubes mash-up LP Sugar-Coated Doom, not to mention his unofficial remixes of the Wu’s K.R.E.A.M. and P.L.O. Style and collab. 45 with Phill Most Chill, Rebel Base? ‘Is he at it again?’ the monkey hears you ask. Yes, he is at it again, though the closest of the the three aforementioned releases to what he’s about to drop is the Wu remix 45. And what he’s about to drop is Diggin Deeper, not a single this time but a whole remix album of one of his (and the monkey’s!) all-time favourite hip-hop LPs – to wit, Niggamortis – more usually known as Six Feet Deep (especially in the U.S., though minus the best track under that name) by hip-hop supergroup Gravediggaz.

As many will know, this LP with its horror-movie fixated lyrics gave birth to a whole hip-hop sub-genre – that of ‘horrorcore.’ However, none of those who came after seemed to manage the lyrical humour of The RZArector, The Grym Reaper and The Gatekeeper (a.k.a. RZA, Poetic and Frukwan) and the only bit of production by The Undertaker (a.k.a. Prince Paul) that they seemed interested in was the sub-metal rap sludge of the shouty Bang Your Head – i.e. the LP’s one weak spot. But don’t worry, Krash isn’t interested in that sort of thing. Not only does he avoid rap-metal beats for Bang Your Head, he doesn’t use any on the LP at all – hurrah! What he does do is employ, arguably, as eclectic an array of sample sources as Prince Paul on the original – though with an entirely different end result. Bang Your Head with its apparently sixties garage band-derived beat for example is one of the standouts. The skeletal piano skank of 6 Feet Deep is another, while a beat featuring spaced-out eighties synths forms the new musical backdrop to Constant Elevation. Two more of the monkey’s favourites on this one are Here Comes The Gravediggaz, now underpinned by double-bass-led funk and the glorious inappropriately joyous bounce of Blood Brothers. The result? Your favourite cuts on this one might not be the same as your favourite cuts on the original. Two different versions of a much-loved LP, then; it’s why people remix hip-hop. All the vocal stems were created by Krash and the ultimate intention is to do a limited vinyl release. Cover art is by the Dead Residents’ Junior Disprol.

Village Live Records is hyped to unveil the highly anticipated repress of Remulak's critically acclaimed debut album, 'Earth,' originally released in 2017. This special edition includes a limited run of only 100 copies on stunning blue splatter vinyl, along with the standard black vinyl edition presented in a gatefold package.

'Earth' not only enchants listeners with its captivating music but also creates a nostalgic atmosphere through its visual presentation. The album cover showcases a charming childhood snapshot of Remulak from the early 80s, while the gatefold image, captured by Remulak's mother in the early 90s, adds to the album's evocative aesthetic.

Remulak's 'Earth' serves as an impressive display of his versatility as a producer, featuring a range of moods from funky and emotive to darker, atmospheric tones. Despite its diversity, the album maintains a cohesive and consistent sound, embodying Remulak's artistic vision and talent. Vinyl enthusiasts and fans of Remulak's work will have the opportunity to secure their copies of this special repress.

The adequately titled ‘The Album To End All Alien Abductions’ sees UK stalwart King Kashmere and producer/rapper extraordinaire Alecs DeLarge unite for a 24- track ride through an epic space age boom bap odyssey. “F**k with your boy Judas Ascariot, who came back swinging - whipping the super chariot” declares a triumphant King Kashmere on the album opener ‘Angel Strike’, proving he hasn’t lost a step since his last full length rap project, #lp4080 dropped back in 2017. Thematically Kash’s lyrics are routed in sci-fi and Jack Kirby era comic lore, but on cuts such as ‘Old Earth’ (an ode to his Mother and coming of age on a North London council estate and ‘House of Cards’ (an exploration of mental health) the Iguana Man shows a rare glimpse into the man behind the freshly pressed super suit. Several cuts also see Alecs stepping from behind the boards to join Kashmere on mic duties, a pairing best displayed on the dusty bubbler ‘Most Blunted’ in which the duo trade verses in a puff puff pass of lyrical spliff boxing.

Boot proudly present Micall Parknsuns 6th studio LP "Still..." on limited edition single black vinyl. With killer features from Kyza, Scriblah, Joker Starr, AyePee, Josiah and Naughtz. Produced by Micall Parknsun, Aypee and Apollo with cuts by Jazz T. Killer artwork by Glen Stone. Includes the smashes "Still... "and "Kept Going"

Shuteyes (Buffalo / New York) & Dirty Hairy ( London / Zagreb ) connected in 2007 with a mutual love of hip hop and jazz. With consistent output a strong bond formed, and Anteek Recipes was born a few years later.

Their sound combines funky raw raps with topics spanning a general disdain for anything remotely commercial or fake, to stories and themes about graffiti, stealing records and straight up classic rap bars. Hairy's production is dusty Mpc60 driven jazz loops, chops and breaks that are deeply excavated from the crates of the world.

Their new EP will be available to pre-order on limited edition blue vinyl, black vinyl & digital.

All copies are come with a hand numbered OBI strip.

London producer SusTrapperazzi has been busy making a name for himself with productions for the likes of frequent-collaborator Novelist (inclding the pairs latest track 'Mercy'), K-Trap, Bxks & Tiny Boost, viral production videos, live sets alongside D Double E, not to mention his EP for German label Illan Tape. Here, SusTrapperazzi lands on London label Astral Black with 6-essential instrumentals in the form of his 'Rationale' EP. The sample at the top of EP opener 'Gospel Trappin' asserts the listener to "Listen to this!" before the prolific producer flips an anthemic gospel sample into a mesmorising trap instrumental. Elsehwhere on 'What's Wrong' - the producer stitches a a triumphant new jack swing sample together into a Houston-inspired pop ballad. Meanwhile on tracks like 'Through To You' & 'Gold Rain' Sus sits well and truly in his bag, fusing together all the elements of his sound into expertly crafter 808 laced trap instrumentals. SusTrapperazzi's 'Rationale' EP kicks off the labels 10 year anniversary which is set to see a string of releases ncluding a EP's from Jossy Mitsu (Rinse FM), Bruised Skies (Hoover Sounds) & NigelThreeTimes (Fractal Fantasy) as well as sample warper Eahwee's follow up to his 'Solitude' LP & a collaborative LP from prolific producer Samuel Organ & folk crooner Laucan.

From Munchen 2 Croydon ... Producer Bobby Slice (Germany), LeoLex (Germany) & The Strange Neighbour (uk) link up to create this international connection ... featuring artists from all over the globe!

Very Limited (120 copies through Srd) RED Vinyl 7” with Shepard Fairey artwork. Ree-vo Announce THE Release OF Their ‘spacebox’ Single ON 7” With Remixes BY Nøise AND Batbirds AND Stunning Original Artwork BY Shepard Fairey.

Oh shiiiii - we're back in again with more unreleased joints from NJ producer Mixture. Some killers on this one, including a sick unheard 1995 demo from Massive Staff. Plus we also have an unheard banger from the Outsidaz 5 years before they dropped for the first time! Wow!!



There's also a dirty version of a previously radio-only track by obscure NJ act Sunz of K.O.S.S. (Kleptomaniacs Of Savage Society) as well as 4 unheard demos all produced by the man like Mixture. Amazing material for the heads!!!!

Crashing into 2022, Chaos Black sees IMS once again bring their trademark ‘Dring’ sound - a perfect backdrop of raw beats, bleak keys and dirty bass lines for Tenchoo’s notorious and vicious vocal delivery.

For the uninitiated, Cmpnd (pronounced compound) are a hybrid rap super group formed of producer and rapper Wundrop and MC’s Kemastry & Vitamin G. Coming off the back of their cult classic, Eagle Court (released on High Focus Records) the trio are gearing up to return with more raucous depraved antics on Eagle Court II: Long Live
The Court. Picking up right where they left off mixing insanity and debauchery, pain and pleasure, introspection and surrealism into a deludamolic delicacy for the audience to savour.

Skilfully expressing their unique personalities whilst simultaneously producing a coherent piece of art that stays true to Cmpnd’s underbelly ethos.

This densely packed 18 track album defies categorisation, as the trio bring a whole new vision and aesthetic to the forefront whether it be the mind boggling production or the ferocious pen game. Featuring Datkid, TrueMendous, Orifice Vulgatron, Bil Next & many more, this is essential listening for all..

he next chapter in the “Seven Deadly Sins” saga brings you something very very special. Believe it or not, we managed to find another unheard/unreleased THE Sworn Lord tune from the vaults of Davy G. Originally recorded in 1990 after “the vengeance is mine” 12inch was released, which is impossible to find or huge expensive, super rare UK Holy Grail. to make “the vengeance is mine” available again, we tried our best to find the OG masters, but couldn’t find them, so we made a vinyl rip off and Gavin Weiss remastered this Beasttune the best way possible. The result is a bit different to the OG version from the 12inch, super dirty, super raw with deep bass. What this release makes so special is the flipside, “The B-Side wins again”: MC Phaser aka. The Sworn Lord -who sadly passed away a few years ago (R.I.P.)- spits pure fire over a 666% Britcore Style pure fire 131 bpm beat produced by Davy G feat. furious epic scratch pattern by DJ Soundmaster. Completly unknown, unheard UK hardcore hiphop from the early 90ies. People into classic Blade, Silver Bullet, Gunshot, Hijack etc etc. gonna love it. We listened to it 24/7 for over 6 months, its a heavy heavy tune which leaves you addicted, you cant stop listening to this, believe us and check the snippet. to underline again: This is NOT made for the club. this pure 1990 Golden Era UK HipHop Hardcore Fire, a document uk UK HipHop History, super dope Random Rap, a raw diamond perfect for the label and the “Seven Deadly Sins Series” on Britcore Rawmance. Nothing FOR Audiophile Hipsters. Regular copies in the usual artwork of the “7 deadly sins” series plus a n orptunity to change to a picture cover. includes a superdope Sketch by Hamburgs finest Skat inside the fold out sleeve.

Black vinyl in a gatefold sleeve which also comes with a black vinyl 7” of remixes of ‘Spacebox’ by
NØISE and Batbirds.

The LP ‘All Welcome on Planet Ree-Vo’ due for release on 29th July could only really have been made in one city steeped as it is in Bristol’s decades of less conventional hip hop and bass music. Tweaked and fine tuned during the summer of 2020 the record punches with a mix of red eyed paranoia to a playful future funk. The album was all recorded, produced and mixed by Andy at Christchurch Studios, Bristol (home of Mezzanine era Massive Attack) with all vocals written and performed by T. Relly.