Various Artists - Box Of Pin-Ups: The British Sound of 1965 (3CD, Grapefruit Records, 2021)

 

Tremendous! A great 3CD collection on Grapefruit Records that focuses on the sounds of the U.K. in 1965. Many of the big players are like The Pretty Things, The Yardbirds, The Animals, and The Small Faces. However, you also get fantastic tunes from less well known British groups like The Merseybeats, Bo Street Runners, and The Tomcats (just to name a few). Over 90 songs are included and not really a dud in the batch. In fact, the sequencing over the three CDs is outstanding. Just plug any of these 3 CDs into a player and just let it go. Definitely recommended. 1965 was a great year! Here is a track list: 

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The Birds - The Collectors' Guide To Rare British Birds (CD, 1999)

 

Not to be confused with the more popular Byrds from Los Angeles, these Birds are from London. Originally named the Thunderbirds, they shortened their name when they were on the same bill as Chris Farlowe, whose backing band was also called the Thunderbirds. In part, The Birds are interesting historically because one of the members of the band was Ronnie Wood - who later went on and played with Jeff Beck, The Faces and, of course, The Rolling Stones. However, even if Ronnie Wood was not in this band, this band would be recognized for their music

The main difference between The Birds and their U.S. "cousins" is that the U.K. version is a loud, "in your face" R&B group. In other words, do not expect any form of "folk rock" on this release.  

This collection contains the 4 singles they released during their existence (1964 - 1967), unreleased demos, and alternate versions. For a taste of The Birds try Say Those Magic Words. 

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Various Artists - Soul Slabs Vol. 1 (Colemine Records) (LP, 2017)

 

I have always like old soul music. I have been a fan of 60ts and 70ts soul. Within the last year, largely due to be being indoors due to Covid, I have discovered a few current labels and artists that have a passion for this music. Colemine Records out of Ohio is one such label that has been putting out modern soul with a vintage vibe. I have been trying to get my hands on some of their 7'' releases. For example, see that gorgeous cover and look at what is out there to get your hands on!  However, if you do not have the time or the inclination to search for 45s, then picking up the first volume of this label is a must. The music on this 2 LP set is top-notch and it will give a great introduction to some of the music that is being made today. At the very least, buying this album will give you a wonderful shopping list for the future. Here is a taste.

The Rugged Nuggets - Yo Todo Tu Yo

Fairport Convention - s/t (CD, 1968)

 

This CD actually came in a box of 5 CDs that contains the first 5 albums by Fairport Convention. While I have heard about Fairport Convention since I was in my late teens, I never really listened to them. I was a little familiar with their extraordinary guitarist, Richard Thompson - especially through his solo work. However, I had never taken the time to listen to the band even though people told me that I would enjoy them. You know what? I should have listened to my friends. 

This is their first album and I can understand the appeal. Fairport is often characterized as a folk-rock band and that makes sense. This not folk-rock like The Byrds, however. There is something more classic, more traditional, more British about Fairport. To get a taste of what they do, check out Chelsea Morning and then the haunting and beautiful, Sun Shade. Very good stuff.

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Janelane - Celebrity Crush/Flowers From Athens - Kingfisher Bluez 7" Single (2021)

 

Fantastic 45 by Janelane. Celebrity Crush is a noisy delight of fuzzy guitar power pop. However, the real treat is the dreamy pop of  'Flowers From Athens' on the B-side. Her vocals are so soothing and you fill find yourself hypnotized. A perfect song.

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Tacumah/Roberto Sanchez - Entaba/Agiti Dub - A Lone Productions 7' single (2021)

 

Some of the best reggae is coming from Spain at the hands of Roberto Sanchez. This 45 introduces me to Tacumah. Don't know much about them aside from liking their gorgeous female harmonies. However, the striking thing about this 45 is the horn section! Roots reggae music with horns 'inna warrior style' is never a bad thing. The dub is solid as well. Definitely a vintage vibe!

Listen here    

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Ras Teo/Lone Ark Riddim Force - Back A Bush/ Back A Dub - Zion Trod Records, 7" single (2021)

 

A solid piece of modern roots reggae with a vintage vibe from Ras Teo. Ras Teo is backed by the Lone Ark Riddim Force so you know it is going to be solid and pure. This single could have come out in the late 70s or early 80s and people would have bought it and not batted an eye. Need more reggae like this!

Take a taste here

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