This recording is a collection of pieces taken from the two most famous 16th and 17th century treatises on dancing. Published in 1588 in the form of a dialogue between a dancing master and his pupil, the Orchésographie by Jehan Tabouret, alias Thoinot Arbeau, is probably the most widely used practical treatise in the history of the dance. Intended more for couples of dancers (the Orchésographie dealt with groups of dancers), The English Dancing Master, compiled in 1651 from English ancestral country dances, was equally successful and went through no fewer than 18 printings in twenty-fours years! These two collections contain the most celebrated dances in the traditional repertoire.

Brutally heavy, wildly confrontational and blessed with a general ugliness sufficiently profuse to grant their name a delicious irony, Swans have remained a brooding, hugely influential presence in alternative rock for the last 25 years. The mammoth noise of Gira's band helped to define the sound of the 'no wave' movement, with the Swans' torturous, hypnotic blasts famously proving loud enough to induce vomiting in audience members during live shows. Progression from the primitive, visceral sound of early recordings such as Filth and Cop has seen Swans diversify into other genres, notably neofolk, shoegaze and gothic rock - in each incarnation, the band has succeeded in maintaining the powerful air of menace that has proved so iconic, whilst still treading some interesting new ground. An essential act for all those interested in the darker side of art.

Formed in 1972 in Peru, El Polen were one of the first Andean psychedelic rock bands ever. Their music was a mixture of native instruments, quenas and antaras, with traditional rock instrumentation, creating a unique style where violins sounded like fuzz guitars.

The first full length from legendary band Death. Very raw and simplistic compared to their later releases, considered by many to be among the first true death metal records. Gore lyric themes were dropped for more serious topics on the later records.

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