LATEST ADDITIONS

In December 1973, Yes issued Tales From Topographic Oceans, a double album that some fans consider to be the greatest record they ever made, while others view it as a time-marker pinpointing the precise moment where the entire progressive rock genre went off the rails. Either way you look at it, the galvanizing, chart-topping Tales From Topographic Oceans is being rightly celebrated today, February 6, 2026, with the release of an exemplary, expansive super deluxe edition from Atlantic/Rhino that includes 2LPs, 12CDs (yes, 12 CDs), and 1BD — a truly deep-dive for (re)consideration of this remarkable recording. Read Mark Smotroff’s review to see exactly why this new collection of Tales is worthy of repeat sailing, er, spinning on your turntable . . .

After a long absence, the Muffin Men have finally returned to their respective seats at the table. What I mean by that is thus: The first Frank Zappa-related release of 2026 shines a spotlight on Bongo Fury, the historical October 1975 collaboration between lifelong friends Frank Zappa and Captain Beefheart, with The Mothers also along for the ride. A newly expanded 50th anniversary edition of Bongo Fury will be released by Zappa Records/UMe in a variety of formats, including 2LP and 1LP sets, on March 20, 2026. Read AP editor Mike Mettler’s report to see just how Bongo Fury has been upgraded and expanded. . .

Fifty years ago, upon the release of his 10th studio album on RCA, January 1976’s Station to Station, David Bowie painted a firm portrait of his future, presenting his Thin White Duke persona that was first hinted at on March 1975’s Young Americans. Now celebrating its so-called Golden Jubilee, Station to Station was re-released 50 years to the day on January 23, 2026, via Parlophone in a new half-speed-mastered, audiophile-worthy limited-edition 180g LP, alongside a fun, companion picture disc option. Read Mark Smotroff’s review to see if you need to check into either/both of these STS reissues. . .

We’ve been waiting semi-patiently to sing about a cool new phono cartridge that we got a heads up about a few weeks ago — and now that the embargo period has officially lifted, the time has come for us to fill you in on Sumiko’s Oriole MC cartridge. Read on to see all of the Oriole cart’s features and specs. . .