Tidal offers FLAC (now up to 24-bit/192kHz for some albums, though Home Again remains 16/44.1). With a HiFi tier, you can download files to your device for offline use (encrypted but playable within the app). For actual file ownership, Qobuz is better.
When Michael Kiwanuka released Home Again in March 2012, the British singer-songwriter introduced a sound that felt both timeless and fresh. Rich with soul, folk, and psychedelic influences, the album earned critical acclaim, a Mercury Prize nomination, and a devoted following. For audiophiles, experiencing Home Again in FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec) format is the gold standard — preserving every nuance of Kiwanuka’s warm vocals and the album’s lush, analogue production.
But what about that cryptic “EMG Rar 8” reference in some search queries? And how can you legally get the CD-quality FLAC files today? This article covers everything.
When British singer-songwriter Michael Kiwanuka released his debut album Home Again in March 2012, few predicted its quiet, soulful power would resonate for over a decade. Produced by Paul Butler of The Bees, the album channels the spirit of 1970s soul—think Bill Withers, Terry Callier, and Van Morrison—while remaining unmistakably contemporary. For audiophiles and devoted fans, the quest often leads to one question: How can I experience Home Again in the highest possible quality, such as FLAC?
This article explores why Home Again deserves a lossless listening experience, what terms like “FLAC” and “2012 EMG Rar” might refer to in niche communities, and most importantly, the legal, artist-supporting ways to download or stream the album in CD-quality or better. Download Michael Kiwanuka Home Again CD FLAC 2012 EMG Rar 8
You don’t need to risk piracy. Several stores sell DRM-free FLAC downloads:
While Kiwanuka isn’t always on Bandcamp, his label Polydor/Universal does not sell direct. But check his official site for occasional high-res releases.
Buy a used or new copy of Home Again (often under $8) and rip it to FLAC using Exact Audio Copy (Windows) or XLD (Mac). This gives you perfect 2012 CD audio and no legal ambiguity.
Michael Kiwanuka ’s debut album, "Home Again," released in March 2012, established him as a premier voice in modern soul and folk. Produced by Paul Butler, the record is celebrated for its warm, vintage sound that draws comparisons to legends like Bill Withers and Otis Redding. Album Overview Release Date: March 12, 2012 Soul, Folk, and Blues Core Themes: Tidal offers FLAC (now up to 24-bit/192kHz for
Restlessness, the search for identity, and the comforting feeling of belonging Critical Success:
The album peaked at #4 on the UK Albums Chart and helped Kiwanuka win the BBC Sound of 2012 Key Tracks "Home Again"
: The lead single, written in just 20 minutes, focuses on the emotional state of being able to be yourself rather than a physical location. "I'm Getting Ready"
: A sparse, acoustic-led track that highlights his signature raspy, soulful vocals. "Tell Me a Tale" few predicted its quiet
: A brighter, more upbeat song that showcases his ability to blend jazz influences with traditional soul. : A hauntingly beautiful single released later in 2012. Understanding the Technical Terms
The specific phrase you mentioned often appears in the context of digital music archives:
: This is a "Free Lossless Audio Codec," which means the music is compressed without any loss in quality compared to the original CD [Search Context]. 2012 EMG Rar
: This typically refers to a specific digital release group (EMG) and the "Rar" file format used to package the high-resolution audio files for easier transfer [Search Context].
Released via Polydor Records, Home Again shot to number 4 on the UK Albums Chart and earned Kiwanuka the BBC Sound of 2012 poll. The title track and single “Home Again” became an anthem for quiet introspection, while “I’m Getting Ready” and “Tell Me a Tale” showcase his warm, grainy vocals and fingerpicked acoustic guitar.
But beyond the songwriting, the album’s sonic fingerprint is crucial. Recorded mostly live to tape in a vintage style, Home Again breathes. There’s no autotune, no grid-snapped drums—just human imperfection. To hear that properly, you need lossless audio.