Like most of the nation I am still half in shock over the tragic events that occurred in Arizona yesterday. I was all set to write about my own mid-winter ennui and the power of music blah blah blah but when tragedies like this occur it makes me realize how trivial almost all of my complaints really are. To the best of my knowledge Rep. Giffords, who according to reports was the intended target of the shooter, is expected to survive although there were 6 fatalities - including a Federal judge and a 9 year old girl who, ironically, was born on 9/11/01. My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this tragedy and their families.
I have already read a few online conjectures that say the shooter was connected to various splinter political groups or had such and such an agenda. While I am sure there might be some truth to some of these theories, I think it is best for all concerned to reserve judgment until the facts are in. Guilt by innuendo or conjecture is never a good thing, even when that verdict is against people or political parties we don't like.
What really upsets me however is that whatever the shooter's motivation might have been, it's frightening that someone can feel so much anger and hatred that this kind of act is the only way he can express it. Not that I am feeling sorry for the shooter in any way, shape or form but but it really boggles my mind to think that we as human beings are capable of that level of desperation. I wish I had some optimistic philosophical bon mot to neatly sum things up and make it all not seem so bad but I don't. Sometimes we humans are capable of incredible acts of cruelty.
George Harrison - What Is Life
I had most of this playlist put together before yesterday but today I find myself needing some reassurance that there is still some sanity and love left in this world and to feel some connection to a power greater than myself. I can think of no better song to take me where I need to be today.
Herb Eimerman - Right Now
Once again I find myself not remembering where I first heard Herb Eimerman's music and not for the first time I suspect it was from one of the power pop blogs on my linkage section. Nonetheless, this is a beautiful song, as are so many on his albums, all of which are available on Amazon.
Little Willie John - Mr Glenn
Here's a little period piece from one of my favorite singers. I totally dig those little spacey sound affects.
The Bobby Fuller Four - Only When I Dream
Speaking of favorite singers, I can think of only a few who were as capable at rocking out one minute and singing so pretty the next as Bobby Fuller. Although his recorded legacy is already more than enough to guarantee him a spot in the R&R Hall of Fame (if the judges had any taste at all) it blows my mind to think of where he might have gone with his music had his life not been so tragically cut short.
Nick Lowe - Saint Beneath The Paint
I've only seen Nick Lowe in concert twice - once with Rockpile and again a few years ago when he did an acoustic solo set. Unfortunately for me I missed this show at the Ritz in NYC sometime in 1985. My bad for sure.
Thee Mighty Caesars - Wiley Coyote
Except for possibly John Lee Hooker, I don't think anyone has made as many records as Billy Childish either as a solo or with various groups. While not everything he records is essential listening, when he's "on" as he is on this one, it's easy to see why he is held in such high regard by so many people.
The Living Daylights - Let's Live For Today
Back in the early days of FM radio I remember Murray The K playing this record on his show before I had heard the US hit version by The Grass Roots. While both are great, I think I like the LD's record better. I'm not sure where this rip originated from but "LLFT" did appear on the very first Rubble compilation.
Vince Castro - Bong Bong
There's nothing like a little upbeat white boy doo wop to put a bit of bounce back into your step. In retrospect it seems like we were all so innocent back then - even though the reality is that we weren't. A bit more naive perhaps but that's about it.
The Red Squares - You Can Be My Baby
This record is fairly well known among garage fans and collectors as it's been on a number of compilations over the years, most recently Rhino's Nuggets Vol. 2 box. In listening to this back as I write I notice that there seems to be something appended to this particular rip at the end - sorry for the poor quality control.
Fred Neil & Vince Martin - Wild Child In A World Of Trouble
Although he did not achieve much commercial success as a recording artist, Fred Neil was a mainstay in the NYC Folk community of the early 60s. He is mostly known for the songs he wrote for others including "The Dolphins" which was recorded by Tim Buckley and "Everybody's Talking" by Harry Nilsson which was featured in the film "Midnight Cowboy".
Big Syl Barnes - Come On Back
An internet search turned up absolutely nothing on Mr. Barnes other than the fact that this record was on Corvair Records, is pretty expensive and may have been recorded in 1960. It definitely has that late 50's/early 60's R&B shuffle groove I love so much.
The Summer Suns - Girl In A Mexican Restaurant
I have to thank my old friend Matthew K. for turning me on to this pop gem way back when. Speaking of my friend Matthew, I want to send out my best wishes to him and his family on the birth of his lovely baby daughter yesterday. In the midst of all this tragedy it's great to witness this flowering of hope and love. I know that you and the missus will be great parents.
The Paris Sisters - I Love How You Love Me
Featuring an early pre-wall-of-sound Phil Spector production and Priscilla Paris' plaintive vocal there is something very haunting and powerful about this record in all its simplicity. Apparently the record buying public at the time liked it as well as it went all the way up to Number 5 on the Billboard charts in September of 1961.
The Stoics - Enough Of What I Need
Ever since it's appearance on the "Acid Vision" comp back in 1983, "Enough...", coupled with "Hate" on the flip has been one of the most sought after garage 45s of all time. If one were even available I'm guessing it would be selling for at least 4 figures. This rip comes from a privately pressed CD-R.
Ray Charles - I Don't Need No Doctor
Written by the team of Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson, this was a minor hit for Ray Charles back in late 1966. Despite barely making the Top 100 at the time, it has become one of his best-known and most loved records from that era.
Hipbone Slim & The Knee Tremblers - Blind Eye
This is yet another band that I can't quite remember where I first found out about - some other blog I am more than willing to bet - but, upon hearing, became an instant fan. If you like The Cramps, A-Bones or The Meteors I can't help but think that you'd like hearing more by these guys.
The Emperors - Blue Day
The Emperors are mostly known for their 5-star garage classic "I Want My Woman" and while "Blue Day" is nowhere near as crazed as that, it's a fine slice of moody garage in its own right.
Did you see a pretty maiden from the planet of love?
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Holiday Blahs
For some reason, I've been in somewhat of a funk this holiday season. Considering where I was last year at this time, I "should" (God, I hate that word!!) be feeling great and believe me, I am not unmindful of how bountiful and privileged my life is compared with so many others in the world and even among my own circle of friends. But feelings are feelings and while it helps to be aware that they are not necessarily reality, they can't just be thought away. We own them and whether or not we choose to share them, we're stuck with them. It doesn't help that everywhere we turn at this time of year we are bombarded by false cheer. See how delighted Miss Amazingly Beautiful Lady Love is with her new diamond pendant from Shlomo's Jewelers and just look at that perfect family enjoying their new Phony HD TV in happy togetherness! The pressure to feel this fake sense of warmth and fuzziness is immense and this year I found it particularly oppressive. But like all feelings, this too shall pass and today, when New York City is in the midst of our first blizzard of the 2010 winter, I had to go outside to run some errands and the same neighborhood I've been living in for the last 11 years was magically transformed into something else. It really was beautiful and breathtaking and it touched me like nothing else has this holiday season. I know that by tomorrow it will all be piles of gray slush but today the world really is a winter wonderland. So, whatever holiday you celebrate, Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, Festivus (for the rest of us) or none or all of the above, I hope it's filled with prosperity, love, joy and good health.
Adrian Lloyd - Got A Little Woman
Adrian is so well known for his garage classic "Lorna" that this little gem of a b-side tends to get overlooked. It's a little slower and more brooding than his "hit" but it's no less addicting in its own way. With a 1-2 punch like this, I can't even begin to imagine what original copies of the 45 must sell for.
Flop - I Told A Lie
Back in the early 90's one of my favorite music fanzines was "Noise for Heroes, Music for Zeros" and I am pretty sure that is where I first read about these guys. Catchy pop-punk in a Ramones/Buzzcocks mode. This particular song comes from their "Fall of the Mopsqueezer" CD, copies of which are available from Amazon for as little as 1 penny (I kid you not!).
Bobby Womack - All Along The Watchtower
There are some songs that just lend themselves to interpretation and "All Along the Watchtower" is definitely one of them. It seems pretty obvious that BW spent a little time listening to Jimi Hendrix' version but when all is said and done he manages to come up with his own rendition.
The Cowsills - In Need of a Friend
Back in the day I would never admit to liking a Cowsills song but with 20-20 hindsight it's not hard to see that they had more than just a couple of pop classics in their repertoire. IMHO this was one of their best with an arrangement and lyrics that still speaks to people today.
The Royal Jokers - You Tickle Me Baby
I know next to nothing about these guys (if anyone has any info feel free to leave a comment or two) but this is pure loud and fast fun that can always get a smile out of me.
The Split Ends - Rich With Nothing
Another garage classic that probably needs no introduction to most readers of this blog. Pure snotty perfection.
Buddy Covelle - Lorraine
Buddy Covelle is anothere artist I knew nothing about (or had even heard of) before stumbling across this rockin' paean to his lady love. Again, I'm sure there is a story behind the artist and/or the record so if anyone out there knows a little more, please feel free to share.
The Long Ryders - Tell It To The Judge On Sunday
Despite being lumped in with the whole 80's Paisley Underground movement, of which I was an avid participant, I never paid much attention to these guys. But about a month ago I heard this song on Dave the Rave's Top Shelf Oldies show (Saturday nights from 10 PM till 3 AM) and I liked it so much that I just had to order the CD.
The Hollies - Nobody
"Nobody" was one of the lesser known Hollies 45s released in 1965. While it may not rank up there with classics like "Look Through Any Window" or "I Can't Let Go", it is still a nice record and I figured that if I never heard it before, it may be new to some of you visitors as well.
Warren Zevon - Johnny Strikes Up The Band
Despite all the horrible things I have read about his personal life and relationships, I have always been a major fan of WZ's music and one of my biggest regrets is that I never got the chance to see him live. I always thought that this was one of his better rockers and after reading that it was written as a tribute to Johnny Carson, I like it even more.
Steve Flynn - Mr Rainbow
According to Wikipedia, Steve Flynn was a pseudonym for writer/producer Mark Wirtz and this song comes from "A Teenage Opera" which is also where Keith West's "Grocer Jack (Excerpt from a Teenage Opera)" originates.
Roky Erickson & 27 Devils Joking - You Don't Love Me Yet
27 Devils Joking was a New Mexico punk band that had a couple of interesting records on their own but I have no idea how they hooked up with Roky Erickson. But hook up they did and managed to come up with a blistering version of one of my favorite Roky songs.
Major Lance - Gotta Get Away
Back in the mid-60s during his stay on Okeh records Major Lance recorded a ton of incredible records many of which have found a renewed popularity among the Northern Soul crowd in the UK. This stereo mix of "Gotta Get Away" comes from a 2-disc best-of that CBS released about 15 years ago that no home should be without.
Teddy Robin & The Playboys - Lies
Just like today, in the mid 60s, American and British Rock and Roll insinuated itself into many different cultures. Hong Kong was no exception and Teddy Robin & The Playboys was one of the most popular bands in the country. Their 45s are quite collectible today and fetch prices in the hundred dollar range on Ebay.
The Secret Service - What's Going On
It's impossible for me to write objectively about these guys as back in the late 80s and early 90s they were good friends of mine and I must have seen them play at least 100 times. "What's Going On" was a staple of their live set and as I am listening to it now I am seeing them on that tiny stage at The Dive on 28 Street and 8th Ave. in NYC. Hard to believe that was almost 25 years ago. It feels like yesterday.
The Wild Ones - Bowie Man
While this may be typical British R&B circa 1964, it doesn't take anything away from the little jolt of adrenaline I still get every time I hear it. This particular rip comes from a privately pressed CD-R made directly from the 45 and sounds a lot better than the reissue on the "English Freakbeat" series.
The Charts - Ooba Gooba
I'm not sure where I first heard this record - maybe a Las Vegas Grind comp or something of that ilk. Back in the late 50s and early (pre-Beatle) 60s there were literally hundreds of records like this coming out all the time. Not exactly novelty records but not entirely serious either, backed by some soulful riffing and a solo or two. Ooba Gooba baby!
They'll be rocking in the projects, walking down along the strand
Adrian Lloyd - Got A Little Woman
Adrian is so well known for his garage classic "Lorna" that this little gem of a b-side tends to get overlooked. It's a little slower and more brooding than his "hit" but it's no less addicting in its own way. With a 1-2 punch like this, I can't even begin to imagine what original copies of the 45 must sell for.
Flop - I Told A Lie
Back in the early 90's one of my favorite music fanzines was "Noise for Heroes, Music for Zeros" and I am pretty sure that is where I first read about these guys. Catchy pop-punk in a Ramones/Buzzcocks mode. This particular song comes from their "Fall of the Mopsqueezer" CD, copies of which are available from Amazon for as little as 1 penny (I kid you not!).
Bobby Womack - All Along The Watchtower
There are some songs that just lend themselves to interpretation and "All Along the Watchtower" is definitely one of them. It seems pretty obvious that BW spent a little time listening to Jimi Hendrix' version but when all is said and done he manages to come up with his own rendition.
The Cowsills - In Need of a Friend
Back in the day I would never admit to liking a Cowsills song but with 20-20 hindsight it's not hard to see that they had more than just a couple of pop classics in their repertoire. IMHO this was one of their best with an arrangement and lyrics that still speaks to people today.
The Royal Jokers - You Tickle Me Baby
I know next to nothing about these guys (if anyone has any info feel free to leave a comment or two) but this is pure loud and fast fun that can always get a smile out of me.
The Split Ends - Rich With Nothing
Another garage classic that probably needs no introduction to most readers of this blog. Pure snotty perfection.
Buddy Covelle - Lorraine
Buddy Covelle is anothere artist I knew nothing about (or had even heard of) before stumbling across this rockin' paean to his lady love. Again, I'm sure there is a story behind the artist and/or the record so if anyone out there knows a little more, please feel free to share.
The Long Ryders - Tell It To The Judge On Sunday
Despite being lumped in with the whole 80's Paisley Underground movement, of which I was an avid participant, I never paid much attention to these guys. But about a month ago I heard this song on Dave the Rave's Top Shelf Oldies show (Saturday nights from 10 PM till 3 AM) and I liked it so much that I just had to order the CD.
The Hollies - Nobody
"Nobody" was one of the lesser known Hollies 45s released in 1965. While it may not rank up there with classics like "Look Through Any Window" or "I Can't Let Go", it is still a nice record and I figured that if I never heard it before, it may be new to some of you visitors as well.
Warren Zevon - Johnny Strikes Up The Band
Despite all the horrible things I have read about his personal life and relationships, I have always been a major fan of WZ's music and one of my biggest regrets is that I never got the chance to see him live. I always thought that this was one of his better rockers and after reading that it was written as a tribute to Johnny Carson, I like it even more.
Steve Flynn - Mr Rainbow
According to Wikipedia, Steve Flynn was a pseudonym for writer/producer Mark Wirtz and this song comes from "A Teenage Opera" which is also where Keith West's "Grocer Jack (Excerpt from a Teenage Opera)" originates.
Roky Erickson & 27 Devils Joking - You Don't Love Me Yet
27 Devils Joking was a New Mexico punk band that had a couple of interesting records on their own but I have no idea how they hooked up with Roky Erickson. But hook up they did and managed to come up with a blistering version of one of my favorite Roky songs.
Major Lance - Gotta Get Away
Back in the mid-60s during his stay on Okeh records Major Lance recorded a ton of incredible records many of which have found a renewed popularity among the Northern Soul crowd in the UK. This stereo mix of "Gotta Get Away" comes from a 2-disc best-of that CBS released about 15 years ago that no home should be without.
Teddy Robin & The Playboys - Lies
Just like today, in the mid 60s, American and British Rock and Roll insinuated itself into many different cultures. Hong Kong was no exception and Teddy Robin & The Playboys was one of the most popular bands in the country. Their 45s are quite collectible today and fetch prices in the hundred dollar range on Ebay.
The Secret Service - What's Going On
It's impossible for me to write objectively about these guys as back in the late 80s and early 90s they were good friends of mine and I must have seen them play at least 100 times. "What's Going On" was a staple of their live set and as I am listening to it now I am seeing them on that tiny stage at The Dive on 28 Street and 8th Ave. in NYC. Hard to believe that was almost 25 years ago. It feels like yesterday.
The Wild Ones - Bowie Man
While this may be typical British R&B circa 1964, it doesn't take anything away from the little jolt of adrenaline I still get every time I hear it. This particular rip comes from a privately pressed CD-R made directly from the 45 and sounds a lot better than the reissue on the "English Freakbeat" series.
The Charts - Ooba Gooba
I'm not sure where I first heard this record - maybe a Las Vegas Grind comp or something of that ilk. Back in the late 50s and early (pre-Beatle) 60s there were literally hundreds of records like this coming out all the time. Not exactly novelty records but not entirely serious either, backed by some soulful riffing and a solo or two. Ooba Gooba baby!
They'll be rocking in the projects, walking down along the strand
Sunday, November 21, 2010
I'm Mad as Hell....
A few days ago I watched the 70's hit movie "Network" for the first time in over 30 years. Back when I first saw it, when I was in my mid-20's I'd probably smoked a few joins beforehand and it was all a big joke. But seeing it again now, with all that has happened over the last few decades, despite some aspects being a little dated (how odd it is to see an office with no computers), in other ways it rang more true today than it did back then. That scene where Howard Beale is in the room with the head corporate honho being totally hypnotized by that "There are no countries; no democracy - just corporations" routine was a big joke when we were all a lot younger. Yeah, we may have had our suspicions but none of us (people that I knew anyway) knew or really cared how true those words were. Now as we see what is happening in and to this country every day it is obvious where the real power lies. I could turn this into whole big rant about how the top 1 percent of this country makes 23 percent of the income or talk about what a disappointment President Obama is turning into (oh please prove me wrong Mr. Prez - I would gladly eat those words!!) but I won't. I'll just say that if you get a chance to see this movie again or for the first time, I think you'll find it rather eye opening.
One more thing before I get to the music. I'd like to thank all of the supporters out there who left such nice comments in support of TOMH after my little run in with the DMCA. So far I still don't know what the offending song was. Enjoy the music and please, leave comments. I love hearing what you have to say - good, bad or indifferent.
The Brigands - (Would I Still Be) Her Big Man
45 years ago this poor guy was worried that if his girlfriend knew he was "only" a poor laborer she might not love him anymore. These days, what with the recession and so many jobs moving overseas, he'd be considered a great catch.
Richie Barrett - Some Other Guy
Although here in the U.S., "...Guy" never dented the Top 100, back in 1962 a bunch of these 45s must have found their way over to England because, along with its b-side "Tricky Dicky", it became a staple of many budding young R&B bands repertoires.
Joan Baez - Love Is Just a Four-Letter Word
In her song "Diamonds and Rust" JB has a line about a genius being a pain to live with at home. Listening to this song, as brilliant as it is, I can see why. While I am not a fan of everything Ms. Baez has ever done, I applaud her mental fortitude for coming through the experience of being in love with a young Bob Dylan with her sanity relatively intact.
Larry Brinkley - Move Over Rover
I have no idea what LB may have done before or since, but "Move Over Rover" is enough to guarantee him at least a footnote in the history of Rockabilly and probably a huge dent in the wallets of Rockabilly collectors.
The Greenberry Woods - That's What She Said
While these guys are pretty well known among hard core Power Pop fans, they came and went generally unnoticed by the public at large. Needless to say, the CD that this song is on "Razzle Dazzle" is long out of print but there are still copies to be bought quite cheaply on Amazon.
The Fire - Fathers Name Is Dad
To fans of 60s garage and freakbeat "...Dad" needs no introduction as it's been recognized as a classic since its first appearance on a "Chocolate Soup for Diabetics" comp almost 30 years ago. It still sounds great today.
John Lee Hooker - Money
Some singers can sing any song and make it their own and there are some songs that are so classic and timeless that they transcend genre and style. John Lee Hooker singing "Money" is a perfect example of both of these coming together at the same time.
John Martyn - Don't Want To Know
I was never a really big John Martyn fan. It wasn't that I didn't like him, I just was pretty much unaware of him. Unfortunately, it wasn't until he passed away in 2009 that I started reading about him and became curious. I could make myself seem much more knowledgeable than I am by talking about his life and music, but you can read all that in the same article that I just read.
Monte Warden - Don't Know a Thing
Monte is a relatively new artist that I discovered on one of the power pop blogs that I have listed in the sidebar. In this song he wears his Buddy Holly influence on his sleeve but to me that is never a bad thing. Check out his Myspace page to hear more.
Grateful Dead - Box Of Rain
If I were to make a list of all the songs I have listened to most in the last 40 years, "...Rain" would certainly be in the Top 5. Besides being the soundtrack to one of my first unrequited love affairs when I was 19 (and we all know about those I am sure), in lines like "Look into any eyes you find by you, you can see clear to another day" there is that promise of all sorts of wonderful things happening at any time. Silly, I know, but if music isn't about taking us to a better place, even one that exists only in our own minds, then what's the point?
The Hides - Don't Be Difficult
From Pittsburgh PA, by the looks of it this was their one and only claim to fame. But a damn fine claim it is, good enough for an appearance on the acclaimed "Back From The Grave" series.
J.J. Jackson - But It's Allright
This song actually appeared on the Billboard charts twice, the first time in 1966 making it up to number 22 and then again in 1969 when it reached number 45.
King Khan & BBQ Show - Too Much In Love
These guys have managed to meld doo wop and garage in a way that I personally find irresistible. His other band The Shrines gets more into a James Brown kind of funky thing that I don't enjoy quite as much but I can listen to stuff like this all day long.
Kenny Dino - Your Ma Said You Cried In Your Sleep Last Night
This Hicksville Long Island native made it to the Billboard Top 30 for the first and only time in 1961 with this peppy little gem. "..Ma..." may also sound familiar to some of you as The Turtles did a virtual note-for-note cover for the flip of their second single "Let Me Be".
Dee Dee Warwick - Suspicious Minds
Although Elvis Presley had a much bigger hit with this song, I think I actually like this version better. Her vocals are as soulful as it gets and The Dixie Flyers (I'm guessing) provide the perfect backdrop.
The Zombies - Don't Go Away
A quick check through my old posts shows that despite being one of my favorite groups of all time, I've only posted one song by these guys. Despite the box set that Ace/Big Beat released more than 10 years ago, it seems to me that these guys are totally underrated when compared to other British Invasion bands of the same ilk such as The Hollies and even The Kinks. My problem was not in finding a good song to post but rather eliminating all of the possibilities down to only one.
It's all a dream we dreamed one afternoon long ago
One more thing before I get to the music. I'd like to thank all of the supporters out there who left such nice comments in support of TOMH after my little run in with the DMCA. So far I still don't know what the offending song was. Enjoy the music and please, leave comments. I love hearing what you have to say - good, bad or indifferent.
The Brigands - (Would I Still Be) Her Big Man
45 years ago this poor guy was worried that if his girlfriend knew he was "only" a poor laborer she might not love him anymore. These days, what with the recession and so many jobs moving overseas, he'd be considered a great catch.
Richie Barrett - Some Other Guy
Although here in the U.S., "...Guy" never dented the Top 100, back in 1962 a bunch of these 45s must have found their way over to England because, along with its b-side "Tricky Dicky", it became a staple of many budding young R&B bands repertoires.
Joan Baez - Love Is Just a Four-Letter Word
In her song "Diamonds and Rust" JB has a line about a genius being a pain to live with at home. Listening to this song, as brilliant as it is, I can see why. While I am not a fan of everything Ms. Baez has ever done, I applaud her mental fortitude for coming through the experience of being in love with a young Bob Dylan with her sanity relatively intact.
Larry Brinkley - Move Over Rover
I have no idea what LB may have done before or since, but "Move Over Rover" is enough to guarantee him at least a footnote in the history of Rockabilly and probably a huge dent in the wallets of Rockabilly collectors.
The Greenberry Woods - That's What She Said
While these guys are pretty well known among hard core Power Pop fans, they came and went generally unnoticed by the public at large. Needless to say, the CD that this song is on "Razzle Dazzle" is long out of print but there are still copies to be bought quite cheaply on Amazon.
The Fire - Fathers Name Is Dad
To fans of 60s garage and freakbeat "...Dad" needs no introduction as it's been recognized as a classic since its first appearance on a "Chocolate Soup for Diabetics" comp almost 30 years ago. It still sounds great today.
John Lee Hooker - Money
Some singers can sing any song and make it their own and there are some songs that are so classic and timeless that they transcend genre and style. John Lee Hooker singing "Money" is a perfect example of both of these coming together at the same time.
John Martyn - Don't Want To Know
I was never a really big John Martyn fan. It wasn't that I didn't like him, I just was pretty much unaware of him. Unfortunately, it wasn't until he passed away in 2009 that I started reading about him and became curious. I could make myself seem much more knowledgeable than I am by talking about his life and music, but you can read all that in the same article that I just read.
Monte Warden - Don't Know a Thing
Monte is a relatively new artist that I discovered on one of the power pop blogs that I have listed in the sidebar. In this song he wears his Buddy Holly influence on his sleeve but to me that is never a bad thing. Check out his Myspace page to hear more.
Grateful Dead - Box Of Rain
If I were to make a list of all the songs I have listened to most in the last 40 years, "...Rain" would certainly be in the Top 5. Besides being the soundtrack to one of my first unrequited love affairs when I was 19 (and we all know about those I am sure), in lines like "Look into any eyes you find by you, you can see clear to another day" there is that promise of all sorts of wonderful things happening at any time. Silly, I know, but if music isn't about taking us to a better place, even one that exists only in our own minds, then what's the point?
The Hides - Don't Be Difficult
From Pittsburgh PA, by the looks of it this was their one and only claim to fame. But a damn fine claim it is, good enough for an appearance on the acclaimed "Back From The Grave" series.
J.J. Jackson - But It's Allright
This song actually appeared on the Billboard charts twice, the first time in 1966 making it up to number 22 and then again in 1969 when it reached number 45.
King Khan & BBQ Show - Too Much In Love
These guys have managed to meld doo wop and garage in a way that I personally find irresistible. His other band The Shrines gets more into a James Brown kind of funky thing that I don't enjoy quite as much but I can listen to stuff like this all day long.
Kenny Dino - Your Ma Said You Cried In Your Sleep Last Night
This Hicksville Long Island native made it to the Billboard Top 30 for the first and only time in 1961 with this peppy little gem. "..Ma..." may also sound familiar to some of you as The Turtles did a virtual note-for-note cover for the flip of their second single "Let Me Be".
Dee Dee Warwick - Suspicious Minds
Although Elvis Presley had a much bigger hit with this song, I think I actually like this version better. Her vocals are as soulful as it gets and The Dixie Flyers (I'm guessing) provide the perfect backdrop.
The Zombies - Don't Go Away
A quick check through my old posts shows that despite being one of my favorite groups of all time, I've only posted one song by these guys. Despite the box set that Ace/Big Beat released more than 10 years ago, it seems to me that these guys are totally underrated when compared to other British Invasion bands of the same ilk such as The Hollies and even The Kinks. My problem was not in finding a good song to post but rather eliminating all of the possibilities down to only one.
It's all a dream we dreamed one afternoon long ago
Sunday, October 31, 2010
A Bloggers Rite of Passage
After 2 years (Happy Birthday "Time On My Hands") I received my first DMCA takedown notice and I've got to admit, it has taken some of the wind out of my sails. I have no objection or issue with Blogger for taking down the offending post. That is their right and even their responsibility. If some musician, songwriter, publisher or label thinks that by having a song posted on this blog will hurt then in any way (although for the life of me I can't imagine why) it is their right to tell me to remove it. No problem there. In fact there are some artists who are known for not wanting their music posted who I like very much and I deliberately avoid them. "Time On My Hands" has always been about presenting music that may otherwise go unheard or be ignored in a different context than what may otherwise be expected. Nothing more and nothing less. If someone doesn't want to be a part of that I certainly respect their wishes. I believe I have made that clear from the beginning.
What does bother me however is that after more than a month (my takedown notice was dated Sept. 15) I still have no idea what song it was that somebody objected to. There is a site that is supposed to contain this information (http://www.chillingeffects.org/search.cgi) but so far I have not been able to find any info on my particular takedown. Looking over my post I see nobody who really has much (if anything) to lose by having the 150 or so people who normally download any particular post "stealing" their song. But what I do see is a really great set list (if I say so myself) filled with songs that I really wanted to share that will go unheard by a hundred or so people who might really appreciate them and maybe even be motivated to go out and buy something by one of the artists involved. As the lyric to a song whose title I've forgotten goes "It ain't what you do, it's the way that you do it" that bothers me.
In other news, I wasn't too upset about Texas beating my beloved Yankees in the playoffs this year. What surprised me more than anything was that the Yanks managed to win 2 games against a team that was obviously superior to them in just abut every way. This year the Yankees simply ran out of gas. I've not seen any statistics but it seems that since the All-Star break they barely played over .500. As far as I am concerned, the better team won and more power to them.
This Tuesday is Election Day and it looks as if the Democrats are going to take a beating. While things are slightly better than they were 2 years ago many people are disappointed that President Obama hasn't been able to accomplish more and despite the fact that they were the main cause of that, the Republicans are poised to take full advantage. This may prove to be a good thing for President Obama for 2012. If the Republicans take control of one or both houses of Congress this year and by 2012 times are still as tough as they are now for so many Amerricans, Republican politicians will have nobody to blame but themselves. I too have to admit some disappointment with the Obama administration. I still think he is a brilliant man with some great ideas but I think he perhaps could have been better prepared for the level of opposition he faced. But the fact remains that if he were running again today I would still vote for him.
Big Maybelle - One Monkey Don't Stop No Show
Including this one, I can think of at least three really terrific songs with the title "One Monkey Don't Stop No Show", the other two being by The Honeycones and The Animals. But Big Maybelle was the first and from the sound of this I'm guessing it was recorded in the mid-50's.
Ducks Deluxe - Coast To Coast
When I first got into Punk Rock, somewhere near the end of 1977 I started reading magazines like NY Rocker and Trouser Press religiously. It was in the latter where I first read about Ducks Deluxe and when I found their album with the blue background on the cover in an import bin I fell in love with this song. Hard to believe this was recorded in 1974 when singer songwriters reigned supreme.
Lesley Gore - That's The Way Boys Are
With songs like this one and "You Don't own Me" LG displayed a maturity that many of us (this writer certainly) lacked at that younger more innocent age when "...Boys.." was blasting out of AM transistor radio speakers.
Neil Young - Rockin' In the Free World
For me, after "Harvest" many of Neil's albums were hit or miss affairs. Total brilliance one minute and virtually unlistenable the next. "Rockin'..." has always been one of my favorites.
Tammi Lynn - Mojo Hanna
This could only have been recorded in New Orleans. Listen to that incredible drumming by, I'm guessing, the incomparable Earl Palmer.
Mouse And The Traps - Lie Beg Borrow And Steal
In their time (mid-60's) these guys released a handful of singles on the Fraternity label. This one and "Maid of Sugar..." are their best and are considered classics today by Garage fans everywhere.
Eddie Bond - Don't Tear Me Up
Listening to this I can hear where artists like Dwight Yoakam and Deke Dickerson may have found some of their own inspiration.
Roger McGuinn - Anna
Like many of us who came of age in the 1960's I'm willing to bet that Roger first heard "Anna" on the "Introducing the Beatles" album. And just like John Lennon's, Roger's voice is the perfect vehicle for "Anna's" melancholia and wistfullness.
The Byrds - She Don't Care About Time
When I was 14 and in 9th grade I remember buying "Turn Turn Turn" on a Columbia 45 and playing it over and over for at least an hour. Finally I turned the record over and was quite pleasantly surprised to find "She Don't..." waiting for me on the flip.
The Hi-Risers - Wild Romance
I love these guys! I've always been a huge power pop fan and The Hi-Risers do it as well as anyone and better than most. Upbeat and perky it's virtually impossible to feel sad when these guys are playing. I saw them a few months ago at Maxwell's in Hoboken NJ opening up for The Trashmen and they're just as much fun live as they are on record. They've got a whole slew of songs just as fabulous as this one so check out their myspace page to hear more.
Southside Johnny & the Asbury Jukes - I Don't Want to Go Home
Anyone who has ever sat in a bar at 3 AM still searching for that potential love of their life or just someone to help keep the loneliness at bay for a few more hours will certainly be able to relate to Johnny's tale of woe.
The Scorpions - Hey Honey
When you mention Dutchbeat to fans of the genre, right away most folks think of The Outsiders and Q65. But, like music scenes everywhere, there were many many other bands involved who were not quite as well known. Meet The Scorpions.
Vicki Anderson - No More Heartaches No More Pain
I haven't updated my "Way to Go" section in awhile but when I do I will certainly include a link to the incredible "Derek's Daily 45" site which is where I first heard this fiery little gem. I've been visiting them for close to a year now and have lost count of how many times I've gone straight from there to Gemm Music or Ebay to add another amazing 45 to my collection.
The Wanderer's Rest - Don't Know What I'd Do
From the wilds of Milwaukee, Wisconsin The Wanderer's Rest released a handful of 45's before fading into obscurity. Virtually their entire recorded legacy is available on "Garagemental: The Cuca Records Story Vol. 2" on Ace/Big Beat.
The Lolas - Ballerina Breakout
I'm not sure where I first heard of these guys - most likely one of the numerous power pop blogs around - but their CDs have been out of print long enough for them to be fetching fairly substantial prices on places like Amazon, Gemm Music and Ebay. But I liked what I heard enough to warrant shelling out for pretty much their whole output including some Japanese CDs with bonus tracks.
Charles Mingus - East Coasting (Take 4)
Like Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus is reknown as much for his musical compositions as he is for being a bandleader and musician. Although I have read that he was a very angry man at times I hear a distinct sense of humor and playfulness in his music. "East Coasting" was recorded fairly early in his career in 1957.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
The Gone-Away World
I generally don't read a lot of science fiction but from what I have read it seems that the sci-fi author's task is two-fold. Not only does he or she need to have a storyline with a plot and dialogue but a good sci-fi novel also needs to create an alternative universe in which the story takes place. In "The Gone-Away World" by Nick Harkaway this universe is a post-apocalyptic society where much of what once was, suddenly no longer exists and what is left in its place is often a creation of the imaginings, delusions and fears of those who have survived. It is a world ruled by a huge conglomerate all-powerful corporation that is bent on preserving itself at all costs. Mr. Harkaway does an excellent job in bringing us into this world, slowly but surely letting the reader in on the details of it's creation and current reality. The parallels he draws between his Gone-Away world and ours are certainly made clear without his being annoyingly pedantic or preachy. The only problem for me was towards the end in the way he tied certain events and people together. It seemed somewhat artificial. It was as if he realized he was close to 500 pages and it was time to stop so he did it in the most expedient way he could. Unfortunately it just wasn't always very convincing, at least not to me. But over-all "The Gone-Away World" has a lot going on and much to say for itself. More than can be digested in one reading most likely. I don't do this very often but I'll probably go back in a year or so and re-read it. In the interim I would not be all that surprised to see "The Gone-Away World", the movie. And now, some music.
The Automatics - When The Tanks Roll Over Poland Again
I think I first heard of this record when I read a review of it in Trouser Press sometime around 1979 or so. Unfortunately the copy of the 45 I got at the time had the same distortion on it as this rip. Hopefully the master tapes still exist somewhere.
The Ceeds - Motherless Children
"Motherless Children" is a traditional blues song that has been recorded a number of times by folks ranging from Blind Willie Johnson back in 1927 to The Steve Miller Band, Roseanne Cash and Eric Clapton in more recent years. This 1966 version by The Ceeds sounds like it could have been a hit with the proper promotion and distribution.
The Tradewinds - Little Susan's Dreamin'
"...Susan.." was the b-side of The Tradewind's minor hit "Mind Excursion" in the fall of 1966. Unfortunately both sides were probably too drug related to generate much radio airplay. Funny how it all sounds so innocent now.
Barrence Whitfield & The Savages - Walk Out
In their heyday Barrence and company were one of the most exciting and dynamic live bands I've ever had the pleasure of seeing. He's mellowed some over the years but he's still always a pleasure to see and a super nice guy to boot.
Steve Forbert - Steve Forbert's Midsummer Night's Toast
I haven't kept up much with Steve Forbert's music over the years but I still love his first couple of albums from back in the late 70's. I remember seeing him in concert at some small club in New Jersey, just him and an acoustic guitar, and he was really warm and engaging and most of the women (and probably some of the men as well) wanted to take him home and mother him.
J.J. Barnes - Come On Back
J.J. released a slew of wonderful 45s back in the 60's and for all I know maybe even well past that time. Unfortunately most of them are only known to a handful of collectors.
Bill Johnson-You Better Dig It
I first heard " You Better Dig It" when I used to see The Swingin' Neckbreackers back in the 1990's. In fact, until quite recently when I stumbled across Bill Johnson's version I was under the impression it was one of their originals. Now that I know better, the reality is they pretty much stole the whole arrangement from BJ note for note.
The Easybeats - I'll Make You Happy
Amazingly I have never posted a song by Sydney, Australia's finest. This is but one of many many incredible records they released over their career. More to follow.
The Naked Eye - Recovery Time
Staying Down Under a little while longer but moving up in time a bit, The Naked Eye definitely sound influenced by fellow countrymen Radio Birdman. This particular track is from the "Antipodean Screams" compilation but they also have a few albums on their own.
Procol Harum - Too Much Between Us
Back in the days when albums were vinyl only there were certain album sides that stuck out in my mind as entities unto themselves. One of them was Side 2 of the British "Hard Day's Night" album and another was Side 1 of Procol Harum's "A Salty Dog" which is where I first heard "Too Much Between Us". To me, no other song so eloquently depicts that moment in a relationship when a parting of the ways seems sadly inevitable.
The Chiffons - Oh My Lover
It's hard to believe that it was almost 50 years ago that I first bought The Chiffon's "He's So Fine" 45 on Laurie Records at Larry's Records on Springfield Boulevard and the Long Island Expressway in Bayside, Queens. It wasn't too long afterwards that I discovered this gem of a tune lurking on the b-side. To this day it's still a favorite.
The Motifs - If I Gave You Love
From somewhere in the wilds of New Jersey, The Motifs gave us this moody garage classic. It's a little out of tune here and there and possibly a trifle off-key occasionally but it's certainly a classic nonetheless in 60s garage circles.
The Cavaliers - Hold On To My Baby
I goofed here - the real name of the band is The Cavaliers while the file shows it by The Naked Eye. Oops. Released on RCA in, I'm guessing 1966 or 67, copies of this Northern Soul staple now sell for well over $100.
Ros Sereysothea - Cry Loving Me
Starting out with a horn riff straight out of Stax Records and then launching into a note-for-note rip off of "Proud Mary" it's pretty amazing how perfectly the pieces all fit together. It makes me wonder if anyone on the Stax roster thought to cover the CCR hit and if nobody did, why not? I can just hear what it would have sounded like in the hands of someone like Eddie Floyd or Johnny Taylor.
Bill Ennis - I'm Hypnotized
Just as with Garage and Punk in the ensuing decades, back in the 1950's for every Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis riding high on the charts, there were a slew of also rans with varying degrees of talent vying for their share of Rock & Roll glory. While I can't honestly say that Bill Ennis coulda/shoulda been a chart contender, this is a fun little record nonetheless.
Material Issue - When I Get This Way
Back in the mid-90's these guys specialized in deliciously hooky if somewhat lightweight power pop releasing a handful of albums on Mercury Records (produced by Jeff Murphy of The Shoes) that sold in the hundreds of thousands. Tragically, lead singer and songwriter Jim Ellison committed suicide in June of 1996 putting an end to the band.
The 13th Floor Elevators - You're Gonna Miss Me
One of the highlights of the movie "High Fidelity" was the opening scene when the needle drops on a record and "You're Gonna Miss Me" comes blasting through the theater. I bought the first Elevators album in March of 1967 on a whim after seeing and totally digging the psychedelic cover while shopping in E.J. Korvettes. This has always been and will continue to be one of my favorite songs ever.
Let him who fears his heart alone stand up and make a speech
Link removed due to DMCA request
The Automatics - When The Tanks Roll Over Poland Again
I think I first heard of this record when I read a review of it in Trouser Press sometime around 1979 or so. Unfortunately the copy of the 45 I got at the time had the same distortion on it as this rip. Hopefully the master tapes still exist somewhere.
The Ceeds - Motherless Children
"Motherless Children" is a traditional blues song that has been recorded a number of times by folks ranging from Blind Willie Johnson back in 1927 to The Steve Miller Band, Roseanne Cash and Eric Clapton in more recent years. This 1966 version by The Ceeds sounds like it could have been a hit with the proper promotion and distribution.
The Tradewinds - Little Susan's Dreamin'
"...Susan.." was the b-side of The Tradewind's minor hit "Mind Excursion" in the fall of 1966. Unfortunately both sides were probably too drug related to generate much radio airplay. Funny how it all sounds so innocent now.
Barrence Whitfield & The Savages - Walk Out
In their heyday Barrence and company were one of the most exciting and dynamic live bands I've ever had the pleasure of seeing. He's mellowed some over the years but he's still always a pleasure to see and a super nice guy to boot.
Steve Forbert - Steve Forbert's Midsummer Night's Toast
I haven't kept up much with Steve Forbert's music over the years but I still love his first couple of albums from back in the late 70's. I remember seeing him in concert at some small club in New Jersey, just him and an acoustic guitar, and he was really warm and engaging and most of the women (and probably some of the men as well) wanted to take him home and mother him.
J.J. Barnes - Come On Back
J.J. released a slew of wonderful 45s back in the 60's and for all I know maybe even well past that time. Unfortunately most of them are only known to a handful of collectors.
Bill Johnson-You Better Dig It
I first heard " You Better Dig It" when I used to see The Swingin' Neckbreackers back in the 1990's. In fact, until quite recently when I stumbled across Bill Johnson's version I was under the impression it was one of their originals. Now that I know better, the reality is they pretty much stole the whole arrangement from BJ note for note.
The Easybeats - I'll Make You Happy
Amazingly I have never posted a song by Sydney, Australia's finest. This is but one of many many incredible records they released over their career. More to follow.
The Naked Eye - Recovery Time
Staying Down Under a little while longer but moving up in time a bit, The Naked Eye definitely sound influenced by fellow countrymen Radio Birdman. This particular track is from the "Antipodean Screams" compilation but they also have a few albums on their own.
Procol Harum - Too Much Between Us
Back in the days when albums were vinyl only there were certain album sides that stuck out in my mind as entities unto themselves. One of them was Side 2 of the British "Hard Day's Night" album and another was Side 1 of Procol Harum's "A Salty Dog" which is where I first heard "Too Much Between Us". To me, no other song so eloquently depicts that moment in a relationship when a parting of the ways seems sadly inevitable.
The Chiffons - Oh My Lover
It's hard to believe that it was almost 50 years ago that I first bought The Chiffon's "He's So Fine" 45 on Laurie Records at Larry's Records on Springfield Boulevard and the Long Island Expressway in Bayside, Queens. It wasn't too long afterwards that I discovered this gem of a tune lurking on the b-side. To this day it's still a favorite.
The Motifs - If I Gave You Love
From somewhere in the wilds of New Jersey, The Motifs gave us this moody garage classic. It's a little out of tune here and there and possibly a trifle off-key occasionally but it's certainly a classic nonetheless in 60s garage circles.
The Cavaliers - Hold On To My Baby
I goofed here - the real name of the band is The Cavaliers while the file shows it by The Naked Eye. Oops. Released on RCA in, I'm guessing 1966 or 67, copies of this Northern Soul staple now sell for well over $100.
Ros Sereysothea - Cry Loving Me
Starting out with a horn riff straight out of Stax Records and then launching into a note-for-note rip off of "Proud Mary" it's pretty amazing how perfectly the pieces all fit together. It makes me wonder if anyone on the Stax roster thought to cover the CCR hit and if nobody did, why not? I can just hear what it would have sounded like in the hands of someone like Eddie Floyd or Johnny Taylor.
Bill Ennis - I'm Hypnotized
Just as with Garage and Punk in the ensuing decades, back in the 1950's for every Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis riding high on the charts, there were a slew of also rans with varying degrees of talent vying for their share of Rock & Roll glory. While I can't honestly say that Bill Ennis coulda/shoulda been a chart contender, this is a fun little record nonetheless.
Material Issue - When I Get This Way
Back in the mid-90's these guys specialized in deliciously hooky if somewhat lightweight power pop releasing a handful of albums on Mercury Records (produced by Jeff Murphy of The Shoes) that sold in the hundreds of thousands. Tragically, lead singer and songwriter Jim Ellison committed suicide in June of 1996 putting an end to the band.
The 13th Floor Elevators - You're Gonna Miss Me
One of the highlights of the movie "High Fidelity" was the opening scene when the needle drops on a record and "You're Gonna Miss Me" comes blasting through the theater. I bought the first Elevators album in March of 1967 on a whim after seeing and totally digging the psychedelic cover while shopping in E.J. Korvettes. This has always been and will continue to be one of my favorite songs ever.
Let him who fears his heart alone stand up and make a speech
Link removed due to DMCA request
Sunday, August 22, 2010
The Agony and The Ecstasy
If any of you readers/downloaders out there in blogland still haven't seen "The Agony and The Ecstasy of Phil Spector" it is definitely worth a few dollars and a couple of hours of your time. The man is entertaining, no doubt about that and he also never lacks for self-confidence as he compares himself to Galileo and DaVinci. The interview segments, which were taken in between his two murder trials are interspersed with courtroom scenes and videos of many of the acts he produced and if nothing else, one walks away with a renewed respect for his unique musical vision. Pop symphonies indeed! The question of whether or not he actually did murder Lana Clarkson is never pondered on anything more than a superficial level nor do they talk about what evidence in the second trial actually convinced the jury to find him guilty. While I fully believe he is capable of doing what they say he did, I oddly (and somewhat disconcertingly) found myself rooting for the guy. And, of course, the music and especially the live footage was absolutely breathtaking. Go see it.
The Astronauts - Come Along Baby
Despite the fact that these guys had a whole slew of albums and 45s on RCA back in the 60's I always found their music kind of lightweight. And while chart success does not always equal musical worthiness, apparently the American public also felt pretty much as I did as they only cracked the Billboard Top 100 once, in July 1963 when their version of "Baja" made it to number 94. One of their best records, "Come Along Baby" was recorded in 1962 before they actually signed with RCA and when they were still known as The Stormtroopers. It's probably a good thing for them that they changed their name.
Big Star - When My Baby's Beside Me
I never really bought into the whole mystique that saw these guys as demigods but that doesn't mean that they didn't have a bunch of really fabulous songs, of which this is but one.
Bobby Milano - Life Begins At Four O 'Clock
Another favorite of mine from long-gone more innocent days. If only life really were this simple - even if it didn't seem that way at the time.
Jerry And The Others - Don't Cry To Me
From Dayton, Ohio, Jerry and his pals recorded this 2 minutes and 52 seconds of sonic skronkiness and were, as far as I know, never heard from again. Nonetheless, as far as one-song legacies go, as the Scooter Phil Rizzuto would have said, this one's not too shabby. Not at all.
Ike & Tina Turner - River Deep-Mountain High
The Devil Dogs - Best Part Of Breaking Up
One of the highlights of "The Agony..." had to be the live footage of Ike and Tina performing "River Deep..." in 1974. Although this was, deservedly, a number one record in England, it got little or no airplay here in the states. At the time I remember hearing OF this record but never actually hearing it until a few years later. For a few years, back in the early 90's, the Devil Dogs were favorites in the NYC garage/punk scene. Despite the misogyny of many of their songs, those of us that knew them knew that it was really just a matter of the lady doth protest too much. At heart they were just a bunch of wide-eyed pop romantics and their super-adrenalized take on this Ronettes classic was always a crowd favorite.
The Resonars - I'll Keep It With Mine
I've always had a soft spot for a good Dylan cover and in this case, for years, the only version of "I'll Keep It With Mine" I was familiar with was the one by Nico from her "Chelsea Girl" album. On one of the many fine compilations put together by the folks at Power Pop Criminals (see sidebar for link) The Resonars turn in their own rendition, taking this song in a whole other direction.
Kangaroo - Such A Long Long Time
I first heard Kangaroo when they opened up for The Who and The Doors at the Singer Bowl in August of 1968. With such co-headliners as that it says a lot that I walked away from that show determined to seek out their first album, which had just been released and was reissued again a few years ago. By the way, The Doors were absolutely awful but that's another story.
The Jaguars - Its Gonna Be Alright
According to the Soybomb Garage Compilation Database there were at least a dozen bands calling themselves The Jaguars back in the 60's. These particular Jaguars came from somewhere in Michigan and while this may be their only 2 minutes-plus of fame, they can take pride in the fact that they were the only Jaguars to make it on to a "Back From the Grave" compilation 20 years later.
The Booby Traps - What A Guy Can't Do
"What A Girl Can't Do" is a garage classic that's been covered numerous times over the years. But this is the first time I'm hearing it from the girls' point of view. What's good for the goose is god for the gander.
Little Johnny Taylor - I Can't Stop Loving You
Besides the fact that it's on some comp I got from another blog I really don't know a whole lot about this particular record. Little Johnny Taylor had a handful of minor chart entries back in the early 60's but this wasn't one of them. Still, it's a fine record and if anyone out there has a little more info, please leave a comment.
Dion DiMucci - Drip Drop
I'm sure that Dion needs no introduction to anyone reading this blog as he's had so many hits over the years and so much has been written about him. This particular record, another remake of an old Drifters' song, came out after he had such a big hit with his definitive version of "Ruby Baby". While it did make it all the way to number 6 on Billboard's chart in the latter part of 1963, to me it just doesn't pack the same wallop as "Ruby...".
Dee Clark - 24 Boyfriends
Speaking of wallup, this Little Richard imitation/tribute has plenty to spare. For reasons I can't fathom this song may have never been issued as a 45, only appearing as an album track. I love that line "Bust 'em all in the head with a rolling pin". Pure genius!
The Gurus - Blue Snow Night
Although I can't remember exactly when (I'm thinking early fall of 1966) I remember very vividly being in this hardware store in Bayside, Queens where I grew up that sold records in the back. I picked this 45 up in its picture sleeve with those freaky looking guys, that big mandala and I was sold. Unfortunately for them I must have been the only one as "Blue Snow Night" never cracked the Top 100 and plans for an album were shelved, probably due to consumer indifference.
Teenage Fanclub - About You
I've written about these guys before here on TOMH so I'm not going to mention yet again how overdue these guys are for a definitive box set that includes all of their numerous non-album b-sides and other rarities. No, I'm not going to talk about it at all.
Warren Zevon - Bad Karma
Say what you will about Mr. Zevon - I've had his biography sitting on my shelf for 2 years and I am still afraid to read it - the man did have a sense of humor and his best songs were incredibly insightful while never taking themselves too seriously. What am I afraid of you ask? Once I read the details of what a horrible abusive violent jerk he was in real life I'm afraid I won't be able to enjoy his music anymore which would really be a loss for me. Every time one of his songs comes on my Ipod, it hits me like the proverbial ton of bricks and I end up playing it 3 or 4 (sometimes more) times and the experience always leaves me feeling transformed somehow. I don't want to lose that so I am thinking that for now, what I don't know won't hurt me.
Dave Berry - Don't Gimme No Lip Child
I'm not sure how much UK chart action Dave Berry saw back in the day but here in the U.S. he was a virtual unknown. This was actually the B-side to "The Crying Game" which was featured in the movie of the same name years later.
Willie Mitchell - Monkey Jump
Sadly, Willie Mitchell is no longer with us, having passed away back in January. While he is mainly known as the producer of Al Green's and Ann Peebles' hits for Hi Records back in the 70's he had a rather extensive discography of his own. He will be missed.
How long can you search for what's not lost?
The Astronauts - Come Along Baby
Despite the fact that these guys had a whole slew of albums and 45s on RCA back in the 60's I always found their music kind of lightweight. And while chart success does not always equal musical worthiness, apparently the American public also felt pretty much as I did as they only cracked the Billboard Top 100 once, in July 1963 when their version of "Baja" made it to number 94. One of their best records, "Come Along Baby" was recorded in 1962 before they actually signed with RCA and when they were still known as The Stormtroopers. It's probably a good thing for them that they changed their name.
Big Star - When My Baby's Beside Me
I never really bought into the whole mystique that saw these guys as demigods but that doesn't mean that they didn't have a bunch of really fabulous songs, of which this is but one.
Bobby Milano - Life Begins At Four O 'Clock
Another favorite of mine from long-gone more innocent days. If only life really were this simple - even if it didn't seem that way at the time.
Jerry And The Others - Don't Cry To Me
From Dayton, Ohio, Jerry and his pals recorded this 2 minutes and 52 seconds of sonic skronkiness and were, as far as I know, never heard from again. Nonetheless, as far as one-song legacies go, as the Scooter Phil Rizzuto would have said, this one's not too shabby. Not at all.
Ike & Tina Turner - River Deep-Mountain High
The Devil Dogs - Best Part Of Breaking Up
One of the highlights of "The Agony..." had to be the live footage of Ike and Tina performing "River Deep..." in 1974. Although this was, deservedly, a number one record in England, it got little or no airplay here in the states. At the time I remember hearing OF this record but never actually hearing it until a few years later. For a few years, back in the early 90's, the Devil Dogs were favorites in the NYC garage/punk scene. Despite the misogyny of many of their songs, those of us that knew them knew that it was really just a matter of the lady doth protest too much. At heart they were just a bunch of wide-eyed pop romantics and their super-adrenalized take on this Ronettes classic was always a crowd favorite.
The Resonars - I'll Keep It With Mine
I've always had a soft spot for a good Dylan cover and in this case, for years, the only version of "I'll Keep It With Mine" I was familiar with was the one by Nico from her "Chelsea Girl" album. On one of the many fine compilations put together by the folks at Power Pop Criminals (see sidebar for link) The Resonars turn in their own rendition, taking this song in a whole other direction.
Kangaroo - Such A Long Long Time
I first heard Kangaroo when they opened up for The Who and The Doors at the Singer Bowl in August of 1968. With such co-headliners as that it says a lot that I walked away from that show determined to seek out their first album, which had just been released and was reissued again a few years ago. By the way, The Doors were absolutely awful but that's another story.
The Jaguars - Its Gonna Be Alright
According to the Soybomb Garage Compilation Database there were at least a dozen bands calling themselves The Jaguars back in the 60's. These particular Jaguars came from somewhere in Michigan and while this may be their only 2 minutes-plus of fame, they can take pride in the fact that they were the only Jaguars to make it on to a "Back From the Grave" compilation 20 years later.
The Booby Traps - What A Guy Can't Do
"What A Girl Can't Do" is a garage classic that's been covered numerous times over the years. But this is the first time I'm hearing it from the girls' point of view. What's good for the goose is god for the gander.
Little Johnny Taylor - I Can't Stop Loving You
Besides the fact that it's on some comp I got from another blog I really don't know a whole lot about this particular record. Little Johnny Taylor had a handful of minor chart entries back in the early 60's but this wasn't one of them. Still, it's a fine record and if anyone out there has a little more info, please leave a comment.
Dion DiMucci - Drip Drop
I'm sure that Dion needs no introduction to anyone reading this blog as he's had so many hits over the years and so much has been written about him. This particular record, another remake of an old Drifters' song, came out after he had such a big hit with his definitive version of "Ruby Baby". While it did make it all the way to number 6 on Billboard's chart in the latter part of 1963, to me it just doesn't pack the same wallop as "Ruby...".
Dee Clark - 24 Boyfriends
Speaking of wallup, this Little Richard imitation/tribute has plenty to spare. For reasons I can't fathom this song may have never been issued as a 45, only appearing as an album track. I love that line "Bust 'em all in the head with a rolling pin". Pure genius!
The Gurus - Blue Snow Night
Although I can't remember exactly when (I'm thinking early fall of 1966) I remember very vividly being in this hardware store in Bayside, Queens where I grew up that sold records in the back. I picked this 45 up in its picture sleeve with those freaky looking guys, that big mandala and I was sold. Unfortunately for them I must have been the only one as "Blue Snow Night" never cracked the Top 100 and plans for an album were shelved, probably due to consumer indifference.
Teenage Fanclub - About You
I've written about these guys before here on TOMH so I'm not going to mention yet again how overdue these guys are for a definitive box set that includes all of their numerous non-album b-sides and other rarities. No, I'm not going to talk about it at all.
Warren Zevon - Bad Karma
Say what you will about Mr. Zevon - I've had his biography sitting on my shelf for 2 years and I am still afraid to read it - the man did have a sense of humor and his best songs were incredibly insightful while never taking themselves too seriously. What am I afraid of you ask? Once I read the details of what a horrible abusive violent jerk he was in real life I'm afraid I won't be able to enjoy his music anymore which would really be a loss for me. Every time one of his songs comes on my Ipod, it hits me like the proverbial ton of bricks and I end up playing it 3 or 4 (sometimes more) times and the experience always leaves me feeling transformed somehow. I don't want to lose that so I am thinking that for now, what I don't know won't hurt me.
Dave Berry - Don't Gimme No Lip Child
I'm not sure how much UK chart action Dave Berry saw back in the day but here in the U.S. he was a virtual unknown. This was actually the B-side to "The Crying Game" which was featured in the movie of the same name years later.
Willie Mitchell - Monkey Jump
Sadly, Willie Mitchell is no longer with us, having passed away back in January. While he is mainly known as the producer of Al Green's and Ann Peebles' hits for Hi Records back in the 70's he had a rather extensive discography of his own. He will be missed.
How long can you search for what's not lost?
Sunday, July 18, 2010
The World Without Us
A few weeks ago an interesting title caught my eye while browsing in my local bookstore. "The World Without Us" by Alan Weisman talks about what would happen to the planet we all call home if, all of a sudden there were no more people - as in here today-gone tomorrow. He talks about how it would affect the animal kingdom as well as plant and mineral life, what would happen in the oceans, rivers and lakes, the biggest cities and the most remote spots on the globe. In order to talk about the future he goes into our geological history and while sometimes he gets a little too technical and scientific for my understanding, the scenarios he describes are nothing short of fascinating. The good news is that with 2 possible exceptions, most of the crap we left behind would be absorbed back into the earth within a few millenia. There could be a problem with all of the non-biodegradable plastic bottles, cups and what-not we've managed to scatter all over until some microbes evolve who could actually eat the stuff. But the biggest mess we'd leave would from all of our nuclear reactors which would eventually break down and all of the nuclear waste storage facilities we've got scattered about. When all of this radioactive chazarai started leaking or melting, it would cause quite a bit of havoc. With the possible exceptions of the cockroach (who as it turns out would not fare so well without humans) living things generally don't like radiation. But even that would dissipate over the next few million years or so. So the bad news, as many of us already know, is that we may be polluting the earth too much for human life to survive but the good news is that in the overall scheme of things, the whole human race doesn't amount to a hill of beans, radioactive or not.
Arthur Gunter - Crazy Me
Arthur recorded this song over 50 years ago but love can make us just as crazy today as it could back then. And that'll still be true in another 50 years. So sing away Arthur!
DM3 - T.V. Sound
I've written about Dom Mariani before here in Time On My Hands and it still amazes me (and not in a good way) that he's not a star. Or at least more widely recognized than by the small cult of rabid fans he has accumulated here and there.
The Palace Guards - Sorry
Not to be confused with the Palace Guard (singular) from Los Angeles, these guys came from Metarie, Louisianna and while they did have at least one other 45, this is what they'll be remembered for.
Little Eva - Keep Your Hands off My Baby
If the legend is true, Little Eva was Carole King and Gerry Goffin's baby sitter. Even if it's not it's a great story anyway and this is but one of a string of hits she had in the early-mid 60's on the Dimension label.
Mel Dorsey & The Heartbeats - Little Lil
Here is proof positive that you don't have to be a poet to come up with a great song. I'm too lazy to count but I'm guessing he sings "Little Lil" at least 50 times. Now that I think about it, what the heck am I talking about - this is pure poetry!
The Giant Jellybean Copout - Awake In A Dream
A quick Google search didn't turn up a whole lot of information on these guys(?) but it seems fairly obvious that they were heavily influenced by "Pet Sounds" and "Good Vibrations". And maybe a puff or two of some good herb.
Grin - Moon Tears
Nils Lofgren is best known for playing with Neil Young and, later, Bruce Springsteen but he also made a number of records both as a solo and with his 70's band Grin. "Moon Tears" has always been a personal favorite of mine.
James Carr - Stronger Than Love
James Carr was mainly known as a deep soul ballad singer but he also cut a handful of nice upbeat sides. Ace Records has re-issued a number of his albums and singles for anyone who wants to hear more.
The Magicians - An Invitation To Cry
Like most people of my generation (or at least those of us who gave a damn) I first heard "....Cry" when Lenny Kaye included it on his legendary Nuggets compilation. It blew me away then and I still really love it today.
Mayday - ???
Last year when I went back to school there was this young Taiwanese guy who sat next to me in one of my classes. One day I asked him what he was playing on his Ipod and he said "Here, listen". These guys are pretty hot stuff over there. Over the course of the term he played me a few more songs by these guys and while they were ofttimes too ballad-heavy for my tastes, they did come up with some bouncy power pop once in awhile.
Roy Orbison - Communication Breakdown
No, this ain't Led Zeppelin! "...Breakdown" was Roy's second to last 60's chart entry, peaking at number 60 in December of 1966.
Myracle Brah - I'd Rather Be
Like Dom Mariani, these guys deserve more fame and fortune than they've found so far. They've got at least3 albums chock full of guitar-heavy, hummable hook-fests similar to this. To give credit where it's due, I want to thank my old buddy Pat L. for turning me onto these guys.
The 13th Floor Elevators - You Don't Know (Live at the Avalon Ballroom, SF)
Since he's been touring again I've been lucky enough to see Roky Erickson in concert a few times and it's great that he still does a couple of old Elevators songs. Listening to this I can just imagine how incredible the Elevators were live back in their heyday.
Deon Jackson - Ooh Baby
Back in the mid-60's Deon's big hit was "Love Makes the World Go Round". Here he displays more of a Smokey Robinson influence on his last record to make the Billboard Top 100, sometime in 1967.
The Tourists - Let's Take A Walk
It's hard to believe that the folks behind this freakbeat sounding rocker were Dave Stewart and Annie Lenox who would find fame and fortune as The Eurythmics just a few years later.
Bo Dudley - Shotgun Rider
Somewhere along the line I heard that Bo Duddley was actually a relative of the more famous Bo and was mad at him so he made this record to piss him off. Like the Little Eva story it doesn't matter if it's true or not - it's just kind of fun to think it might be. Regardless, it's a damn fine record.
Hank Williams - Long Gone Lonesome Blues
It's like I said in the begining. Love has always been able to make a sane person absolutely crazy. Which is why, despite having been recorded about 60 years ago give or take a few months, this song is still so moving.
Ask me if it's right to love another guy
Arthur Gunter - Crazy Me
Arthur recorded this song over 50 years ago but love can make us just as crazy today as it could back then. And that'll still be true in another 50 years. So sing away Arthur!
DM3 - T.V. Sound
I've written about Dom Mariani before here in Time On My Hands and it still amazes me (and not in a good way) that he's not a star. Or at least more widely recognized than by the small cult of rabid fans he has accumulated here and there.
The Palace Guards - Sorry
Not to be confused with the Palace Guard (singular) from Los Angeles, these guys came from Metarie, Louisianna and while they did have at least one other 45, this is what they'll be remembered for.
Little Eva - Keep Your Hands off My Baby
If the legend is true, Little Eva was Carole King and Gerry Goffin's baby sitter. Even if it's not it's a great story anyway and this is but one of a string of hits she had in the early-mid 60's on the Dimension label.
Mel Dorsey & The Heartbeats - Little Lil
Here is proof positive that you don't have to be a poet to come up with a great song. I'm too lazy to count but I'm guessing he sings "Little Lil" at least 50 times. Now that I think about it, what the heck am I talking about - this is pure poetry!
The Giant Jellybean Copout - Awake In A Dream
A quick Google search didn't turn up a whole lot of information on these guys(?) but it seems fairly obvious that they were heavily influenced by "Pet Sounds" and "Good Vibrations". And maybe a puff or two of some good herb.
Grin - Moon Tears
Nils Lofgren is best known for playing with Neil Young and, later, Bruce Springsteen but he also made a number of records both as a solo and with his 70's band Grin. "Moon Tears" has always been a personal favorite of mine.
James Carr - Stronger Than Love
James Carr was mainly known as a deep soul ballad singer but he also cut a handful of nice upbeat sides. Ace Records has re-issued a number of his albums and singles for anyone who wants to hear more.
The Magicians - An Invitation To Cry
Like most people of my generation (or at least those of us who gave a damn) I first heard "....Cry" when Lenny Kaye included it on his legendary Nuggets compilation. It blew me away then and I still really love it today.
Mayday - ???
Last year when I went back to school there was this young Taiwanese guy who sat next to me in one of my classes. One day I asked him what he was playing on his Ipod and he said "Here, listen". These guys are pretty hot stuff over there. Over the course of the term he played me a few more songs by these guys and while they were ofttimes too ballad-heavy for my tastes, they did come up with some bouncy power pop once in awhile.
Roy Orbison - Communication Breakdown
No, this ain't Led Zeppelin! "...Breakdown" was Roy's second to last 60's chart entry, peaking at number 60 in December of 1966.
Myracle Brah - I'd Rather Be
Like Dom Mariani, these guys deserve more fame and fortune than they've found so far. They've got at least3 albums chock full of guitar-heavy, hummable hook-fests similar to this. To give credit where it's due, I want to thank my old buddy Pat L. for turning me onto these guys.
The 13th Floor Elevators - You Don't Know (Live at the Avalon Ballroom, SF)
Since he's been touring again I've been lucky enough to see Roky Erickson in concert a few times and it's great that he still does a couple of old Elevators songs. Listening to this I can just imagine how incredible the Elevators were live back in their heyday.
Deon Jackson - Ooh Baby
Back in the mid-60's Deon's big hit was "Love Makes the World Go Round". Here he displays more of a Smokey Robinson influence on his last record to make the Billboard Top 100, sometime in 1967.
The Tourists - Let's Take A Walk
It's hard to believe that the folks behind this freakbeat sounding rocker were Dave Stewart and Annie Lenox who would find fame and fortune as The Eurythmics just a few years later.
Bo Dudley - Shotgun Rider
Somewhere along the line I heard that Bo Duddley was actually a relative of the more famous Bo and was mad at him so he made this record to piss him off. Like the Little Eva story it doesn't matter if it's true or not - it's just kind of fun to think it might be. Regardless, it's a damn fine record.
Hank Williams - Long Gone Lonesome Blues
It's like I said in the begining. Love has always been able to make a sane person absolutely crazy. Which is why, despite having been recorded about 60 years ago give or take a few months, this song is still so moving.
Ask me if it's right to love another guy
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