IV Of Cups [LP]

Thought Leadership - IV Of Cups [LP]

The deservedly hyped Thought Leadership returns with another X ideas: the deck this time chooses the suit of Cups. This new collection is closer to the post-punk tonality of Pentacles, than the breezy Balearic jazz of Swords. Gone are the brushed drum samples and airy synths and in their place are BIG guitars, 808 thumps and a decidedly more prominent use of bass as a melodic device. As the suit of Cups reflects the emotional heart of the Tarot, presented within are a further ten pieces, this time displaying the full range and fervor of Thought Leadership. Originally out on cassette only, Be With presents the first ever vinyl issue. It's a hideously limited pressing of 300 for the world, so don't sleep on this. Side A explores the emotional levels of consciousness; angst, joy, love, sorrow, relief, regret -- they are all represented across the first seven tracks, and often within the same piece. Side B again takes the listener on a trip through three long-form semi-improvised pieces. Unadulterated aural nostalgia for hours spent with a PS1 in haze of hash. Beautifully dreamy, undeniably soundtrack-y, and arguably the most concise distillation so far of everything this project stands for; drum machines, guitars, pedals, one-take improvised solos. The first ever vinyl release of IV Of Cups has been carefully remastered by Be With's engineer Simon Francis to ensure it sounds better than ever after its initial tape release. Cicely Balston's expert skills have made sure nothing is lost in the cut at Abbey Road Studios whilst the records have been pressed to the highest possible standard at Record Industry, in Holland. The original tape cover artwork, so crucial to Thought Leadership's striking visual aesthetic, has been rejigged for vinyl issue here at Be With. A1. XXI A2. XXII A3. XXIII A4. XXIV A5. XXV A6. XXVI A7. XXVII B1. XXVIII B2. XXIX B3. XXX