Bang

MTV Unplugged In New York (1994)

MTV Unplugged In New York - 2019 - US - DGC - B0029512-01, B0031073-01 - Vinyl

★★★★½ Jun 28, 2026

I'd been looking for MTV Unplugged in New York on vinyl for quite a while and finally managed to pick up a copy. Recorded in November 1993 for MTV's famous Unplugged series, MTV Unplugged in New York has since become one of the most celebrated live albums in rock history. Unlike many MTV Unplugged performances, Nirvana chose not to rely heavily on their biggest hits. Instead, the band performed a carefully curated set featuring acoustic reinterpretations, lesser-known songs, and covers by artists such as David Bowie, Lead Belly, and the Meat Puppets. The result is an intimate and deeply personal performance that feels very different from a typical Nirvana concert. The shop owner actually recommended the 2LP version over the single LP edition, saying it sounded better, so I decided to give it a try. Glad I listened. The recording quality is excellent, but what really stands out to me is the atmosphere. From the song selection to Kurt's vocals, everything feels incredibly intimate. One thing I especially love is hearing Kurt speak between songs. Those little interactions with the audience make it feel less like a live album and more like you're actually sitting in the room with the band. Considering this album was originally released in 1994, when CDs dominated the market, I guess that is the reason original vinyl copies have become so difficult to find.

Sunday Thing (1976)

Sunday Thing - 1976 - Japan - Three Blind Mice - TBM-67 - Vinyl

★★★★½ Jun 28, 2026

Founded in 1970, Three Blind Mice became renowned worldwide for its exceptional recording quality, wide dynamic range, and remarkably realistic sound reproduction. Even today, TBM records remain highly sought after by both jazz collectors and audiophiles. I managed to get the first pressing for cheap Sunday Thing is a big band jazz recording that blends elements of modern big band, post-bop, and jazz fusion. While large ensemble recordings can sometimes sound crowded or chaotic, this album is celebrated for its smooth arrangements and excellent instrument separation. Despite the large ensemble, the music never sounds messy. Every instrument occupies its own space, creating a full, dynamic, and highly immersive listening experience. The recording quality is simply outstanding. Turn up the amplifier and the music comes alive, creating the illusion of sitting in front of a live orchestra. With a good hi-fi setup, the realism is astonishing. Most importantly, don't be afraid to increase the volume, that's when you'll truly understand why so many audiophiles admire Three Blind Mice recordings. The first track is also good for testing your Hi-Fi system

Metallica (1991)

★★★★★ Jun 28, 2026

For me, this is easily one of Metallica's greatest albums, and arguably one of the best metal albums ever released. Enter Sandman is my favourite track in the album. Every track feels carefully crafted, with no weak songs. Whether it's the heavy riffs of "Sad But True," the intensity of "Wherever I May Roam," or the emotional power of "Nothing Else Matters," each song brings something memorable to the listening experience. I originally purchased a first pressing, but prices for early copies have become incredibly expensive. Because of that, I later picked up the reissue 2LP edition, and honestly, I was pleasantly surprised. Considering its price, the sound quality remains excellent and offers tremendous value for collectors who don't want to spend a fortune on an original pressing. Played through a proper hi-fi setup with a moving magnet (MM) cartridge, this album absolutely comes alive. The guitars sound massive, the drums hit with real authority, and the overall presentation is powerful and energetic. Whenever I listen to The Black Album, I always switch to my MM cartridge because it delivers the punch and warmth that this record deserves.

The Dark Side Of The Moon (1973)

The Dark Side Of The Moon - 1973 - Japan - Harvest - EOP-80778 - Vinyl

★★★★½ Jun 27, 2026

Played through my vintage JBL 4312 speakers, this record sounds incredibly full. The whole house fills with sound. The bells and effects in this album seem to vibrate throughout the room and linger long after they appear. There are many modern reissues available today, but this Japanese pressing may not be the most expensive, but it sounds fantastic. The album moves effortlessly between rock and blues. Despite the different moods, every song flows naturally into the next. My favorite track is "Money". The groove, effects, and energy still feel fresh. This is my favorite Pink Floyd album. It captures the band at their peak, also around the period when jazz was trendy. Every track sounds great, and the album still feels timeless more than 50 years after its release.