How Did This Happen and What Does It Now Mean is the latest embellishment in a catalog that opened in 1972 with Whatever's For Us. That album launched the distinguished career that has led to MBE and CBE decorations, Ivor Novello and BASCA Gold Badge Awards for songwriting, BRIT and Grammy nominations, countless honorary degrees and far more. As usual in her recent history, the new record is a triumph of self-sufficiency, entirely written, produced, programed and engineered by Joan herself. The 12-track set will rapidly be recognized by Armatrading's legions of devotees and new fans alike as a songwriting and recording masterclass. On a bed of melodies and arrangements that are by turns immediate and subtle, it weaves a lyrical tapestry that touches on both individual and universal themes with her trademark dexterity and easy charm, not to mention two showstopping instrumentals.
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Recommended equipment and accessories
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HumminGuru: Ultrasonic Vinyl Record Cleaner
Advanced ultrasonic technology with customizable cleaning cycles and a large tank capacity to thoroughly remove dust, dirt, and contaminants
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Ortofon 2M Red Cartridge
Features an elliptical stylus that accurately tracks the grooves of vinyl records, delivering a rich, detailed sound with an output voltage of 5.5 mV
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Nobsound Little Bear T7 Tube Preamp
Delivers rich, warm audio through its high-quality vacuum tubes, featuring multiple inputs and adjustable gain
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Edifier R1280DB Powered Speakers
Combining classic design with modern Bluetooth connectivity, built-in amplification and versatile inputs, these speakers deliver rich, balanced sound.
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Denon DP-400
Featuring a high-precision, belt-driven mechanism and an adjustable tonearm that ensures optimal tracking and minimal resonance
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
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Margo Price Hard Headed Woman
Loma Vista Recordings
August 29, 2025 -
Zach Top Ain't In It For My Health [2xLP]
Leo33
August 29, 2025 -
The Teskey Brothers Live At The Hammersmith Apollo
Glassnote Music
July 11, 2025 -
Slow Crush Thirst
Pure Noise Records
August 29, 2025 -
Bad Suns Accelerator
Epitaph
August 8, 2025 -
Pi'erre Bourne Made in Paris [2xLP]
Interscope/Geffen/A&M
September 19, 2025 -
Kathleen Edwards Billionaire
Dualtone Music Group
August 22, 2025 -
Hot Mulligan The Sound a Body Makes When It's Still (Sea Blue)
Wax Bodega
August 22, 2025 -
Mansur Brown Rihla
Amai Records
September 5, 2025 -
James Yorkston Songs for Nina and Johanna
Domino Record Co
August 22, 2025 -
Pendulum Inertia [2xLP]
Virgin Music International
August 22, 2025 -
Born of Osiris Through Shadows (Onyx Marble)
Sumerian Records
July 11, 2025 -
Arjen Anthony Lucassen Songs No One Will Hear [2xLP]
Inside Out Music
September 12, 2025 -
Desire Escape (Violet)
Universal UK
July 25, 2025