Dead Can Dance New LP "into the labrynth"

Most likely, it's not the recording, as I know exactly to what you are referring. I've heard it on multiple systems - both from an analog pressing and multiple digital copies (original release and the MoFi re-release).

I don't hear it on my current system, and for that I am thankful.

Find a good copy of one of these test records: (http://www.ebay.com/itm/LP-SHURE-PHONO-CARTRIDGE-TRACKABILITY-TEST-RECORD-NEW-/350505083217?pt=Music_on_Vinyl&hash=item519bbb2151) (http://www.audiophileusa.com/item.cfm?record=81920&c=1&kw=Accessory) (http://www.elusivedisc.com/prodinfo.asp?number=CLELP43039) I own the first two I listed, and a couple others that are no longer available. They are very useful tools. I'll bet you find that your stylus is mistracking, at the higher groove modulation levels. When Sheffield Labs came out with their 'Growing Up in Hollywood Town' direct to disc; some complained of mistracking, when Amanda McBroom hit some of the same notes as the violins, on the cut, 'Amanda'. Mine never did, but- I heard the distortion on a couple other systems. It was ugly!

But what is odd is that I hear the same distortion on an intirely different system at my dealer with this pressing as well. Could both carts be mistracking?? What are the odds?

Actually- the odds are pretty good, if the groove modulation is high enough. BTW- Do you have your VTF set toward the high or low end, of your cart's range?

I have no idea. The arm is relatively parallel, with maybe a 2 degree tip forward at the most.