Morrissey isn't the only one missing a record label these days... more from Paul Kelly of Birdie on their latest release, "Triple Echo":  "The record will be released in the U.K. on October 22nd, this version differs slightly from the Japanese version, a couple of changed songs and alternative cover etc. but we don't have a U.S. version planned. Kindercore didn't want to release it and Minty Fresh who had expressed an interest in putting out the album in the end decided to turn it down also! You could try amazon.com or pennyblackmusic.com or even perhaps Apricot Records in Germany who are also issuing a version. We are going to revamp the site in time for 22nd Oct and so by then we should have far more buying information. "

Beastie Boy MIKE D. has this weekend confirmed the closure of GRAND ROYAL RECORDS, the influential label founded by the Beasties in 1993. Citing mounting financial problems, the news of the label's demise is shocking to music fans and critics alike, as Grand Royal had built a name for itself as one of the most successful artist-controlled labels. "Our intentions were always simply to create a home for exciting music and the people who were passionate about it," said Mike D. in this weekend's final press release.

There is currently a lawsuit in progress between London based artists THE CLIENTELE and March Records. A spokesman for the band recently stated, "Regretfully, we would urge anyone with plans to buy our A Fading Summer EP on March Records NOT TO, as it's no better than a bootleg: none of the royalties owed to the band have been paid, legal action is currently being taken, and March Records' license to manufacture and sell it has been revoked." No one at March could be contacted for comment.

Spiritualized have been known for their insane album packaging. 'Pure Phase' was inside a glow-in-the-dark jewel case (one of my prize possessions), their last album, 'Ladies and Gentlemen We're Floating In Space' was inside a foil sealed pill box.

Their new album, 'Let It Come Down' will be a gold CD, housed in a plastic box with a sculpture by Don Brown. Dotmusic has a picture of the sculpture, and I must say that it looks pretty cool.

According to Billboard, Bjork's US tour will feature the Netherlands-based Il Novecento Orchestra. You can check out the tour dates here.

Music Goes On has an article about three Oasis fans who left a 1997 show with an earache. They checked into a hospital in Hanover, Germany and racked up a £3,700 medical bill. The concert organizers have decided to settle out-of-court and pay their bill.

I first saw Oasis in 1996 at the Whisky-A-Go-Go in Los Angeles and that was one of the loudest gigs I've ever seen.

Lisa sent me this bit of info: "Spiritualized are close to confirming a live date in Los Angeles in November. The band will be performing a three-hour set with no opening act, and will be accompanied by a 17-piece orchestra."

The new album is fantastic and I personally can't wait for this show!!

Maybe the Hammond B-3 is cursed...

I saw this over at BBC Online about how Danny McNamara of Embrace will only be communicating via their official site, www.embrace.co.uk from now on. This really isn't an original idea as Radiohead have been doing it for a while with their site, Spin With A Grin.

Pulp have announced their new single, "Trees". It will be releasd on October 1 and their next album will be released on October 15.