Face it—that sneering guy behind the counter at the local record store, the one straight out of High Fidelity, does know best. Which is why we asked owners and buyers at independent record stores to choose the summer’s must-hear new releases, from dub reggae to Broadway.
Dub Reggae
Guidance, The Meditations (Makasound).
“Great compilation from one of Jamaica’s best vocal groups.” Malcolm Allen, buyer, Jammyland (212-614-0185)
Electronica
HAHA SOUND, Broadcast (Warp).
“Electronica influenced by psychedelia. They put out an amazing EP this spring; the full album should be amazing.” Chris Vanderloo, buyer, Other Music (212-477-8150)
House/R&B
Elements of Life, Little Louie Vega (MAW Records).
“A long-awaited return for Vega to his Nuyorican-soul production style—electronic rhythms with instrumental jams. Pure exuberance.” Shawn Schwartz, co-owner, Halcyon (718-260-9299)
Broadway
Mostly Sondheim DVD, Barbara Cook (DRG).
“Taped at Carnegie Hall in 2001, this concert has Cook covering not just Sondheim but songwriters like Harold Arlen.” Ron Saja, owner, Footlight Records (212-533-1572)