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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Denon DP-400
Featuring a high-precision, belt-driven mechanism and an adjustable tonearm that ensures optimal tracking and minimal resonance
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Ortofon 2M Blue Premounted
Mounted on the SH-4 Black Headshell, this setup delivers exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and accurate sound reproduction.
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Audioengine A2 Plus
Precision-engineered 2.75-inch woofers and a 0.75-inch silk dome tweeter, featuring built-in DAC and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration.
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Pro-Ject Phono Box DC Pre-Amp
Compact, high-performance phono preamplifier for both MM and MC cartridges, delivering a clean, detailed signal with minimal noise.
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
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GWAR THe Return Of Gor Gor (Semi-Transparent Purple)
Pit Records
July 25, 2025 -
Yoshika Colwell On the Wing
Blue Flowers
July 25, 2025 -
Tallah Primeval: Obsession // Detachment
Earache Records
September 5, 2025 -
Water From Your Eyes It's A Beautiful Place
Matador
August 22, 2025 -
Wavves Spun (Yellow)
Many Hats Dist
August 1, 2025 -
Scorpions From The First Sting [2xLP]
Bmg
September 26, 2025 -
Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith Gush
Nettwerk Records
September 12, 2025 -
Waylon Jennings Songbird
Son of Jessi
October 3, 2025 -
Between The Buried And Me The Blue Nowhere [2xLP]
Inside Out Music
September 12, 2025 -
Bush I Beat Loneliness [2xLP]
Earmusic
July 18, 2025 -
Sarah McLachlan Better Broken
Concord Records
September 19, 2025 -
Alex G Headlights
Rca Records
July 18, 2025 -
Sir Richard Bishop Hillbilly Ragas
Drag City
September 26, 2025 -
The Besnard Lakes The Besnard Lakes Are The Ghost Nation (Clear)
Full Time Hobby
October 10, 2025