I got the great Keith Relf single Shapes In My Mind via my good friend Andrew Ricci before Christmas.

This led me to catching up on hise equallly excellent debut solo single   Mr Zero/Knowing recently reissued by Demon Records.

I first heard these tracks on the superb Yardbirds Golden Eggs  and More Golden Eggs bootlegs back in 1974.

This also inspired me to invest in the All The Fallen Angels Solo Recordis & Collaborations 1965 – 1970. A brilliant 24 overview of Keith’s career  across The Yardbirds, Together and Rennacance.  Extensive sleeve notes to by Chris Welch and Mike Stax. All in all a fabulous compilation on the Repertoire label.

My thoughts on…

Labyrinth – British Jazz On Record 1960- 75 by Richard Morton Jack with an introduction by Tony Reeves (Lansdowne)

Right, straight to the point – Labyrinth is a truly magnificent chronicle

What we have here is a highly detailed pictorial history of British Jazz album releases spanning the years 1960 –1975, all superbly presented in chronological order..

In his enlightening introduction, author Richard Morton Jack sets the scene and brings clear perspective to the role these albums played in the development of British jazz. Initially underplayed in the midst of the novelty of trad jazz, British jazz emerged in the 1960s as a credible movement.

However, with the dominance of the pop market, many of these LPs went under the radar – garnering a few mixed reviews, selling poorly and being swiftly deleted. This has led to many of them commanding five figure sums on the collectors market.

As Richard astutely observes, ”Rarity accounts for part of their appeal but the more salient point is that it has taken decades for the musical worth of such LPs to be appreciated and for listeners all over the world to prick up their ears”

Labyrinth goes a long way to putting the record straight…

The book is beautifully designed with pin point sharp photographic reproductions of over 300 album sleeves – the majority of them both front and back – featuring the all-important sleeve liner notes and record labels themselves.

The lavish large format does absolute justice to the beautiful artwork – this is not just a coffee table book – it’s almost a table in itself!

Hats off here to Richard and Jules Elvins for achieving such clarity with the photos. Note aso, all the album sleeves are drawn from original pressings.

Highly respected musician Tony Reeves provides an illuminating introduction. He was at the forefront of the British jazz moment in the 60s and later went on to work with Colosseum, Curved Air and Greenslade. Tony recalls working with sound engineer Eddie Kramer at Regent Sound studios – Eddie would go on to work with Led Zep and Jimi Hendrix.

So to the LPs spread over 369 pages…

These records were released by a wide range of record companies  – alongside the familiar Columbia, Fontana, Philips, Decca, Polydor and RCA imprints, there are many obscure labels featured – Argo, Esquire, Vogue, Colpix, Tempo and Airbourne among them.

This list of fascinating albums takes in the work of many influential players including Stan Tracey, Joe Harriott, Michael Garrick, Kenny Wheeler, Dick Morrissey, Tubby Hayes and Ian Carr to name but a few.

For anyone obsessed with the detail of vinyl LP records and record labels (and that’s definitely me), this really is an absolute visual delight. You don’t necessarily need to be a big jazz fan to enjoy this book.

Take the liner notes of the many releases featured – they emerge as true remnants of the era. Many a guest reviewer explaining in detail what the listener is about to here including jazz luminaries such as Ronnie Scott and Humphrey Lyttleton and respected journalists Derek Jewel and Richard Williams.

Add to that detailed notes on which studio the album was recorded in (Olympic, Morgan etc), plus the dates of the recording and engineers and producers. Eddie Offord of Yes and ELP fame is a frequently used engineer.

It strikes me that many a rock album would have benefitted from these narratives – such liner notes were prominent in the early 60s but by the psychedelic era with the deployment of ever flamboyant album cover designs ,there was no room for such commentary.

There’s evidence to suggest that some releases in Australia retained the format as I have pressings of both Led Zeppelin 1 and the Crosby Stills & Nash album that deploy the journalist opinions in the style of these fabled British jazz liner notes.

As the 60s progressed, the term jazz  morphed into various offshoot variants such as abstract jazz, avant -garde and jazz rock. Labyrinth includes a fair representation of releases from that era with the likes of Nucleus (on the fledgling Vertigo label) Centipede, Colosseum, Soft Machine’s Hugh Hopper and Isotope.

There’s also some revelations the way –  a pre TV-fame Dudley Moore Trio album on US Atlantic, released thanks to Atlantic Records exec Ahmet Ertegun seeing Dudley playing in a London club on a visit in 1962. The 1969 debut album John McLaughlin on the Marmalade label, a Chris Spedding solo jazz record only issued in Japan – and  Viram Jasani the tabla player on Black Mountain Side on Led Zeppelin I contributing to John Mayer’s Etudes and the Cosmic Eye LP. Who knew?

Along the way, the album Mary Anne Thomas’  cover artwork was adapted from is revealed. It’s also worth mentioning that the inside covers of the book are adorned with vivid fascinating adverts from the music press of the time and the book also comes with a bonus Michael Garrick Trio album poster print.

Prior to viewing this book  I would not claim to be a massive connoisseur of the British jazz movement. However, reading about these archive releases has prompted me to discover much more. I do have some of the albums featured but I’ve already made a list of titles I’m going to try and search out. I can feel yet another record collecting area opening up for me – hey so much for my ‘Buy less’ strategy!

This has been made easy by Richard Morton Jack’s summaries of each record – noting it’s backstory and including contemporary reviews of the time. This is yet another highlight of the book. Concise and insightful, they grasp the essence of what each record is about.

Any book that inspires further investigation to the music it features is a winner – and Richard Morton Jack has a reputation for this via his exhaustive Galactic Ramble and Psychedelia 1966 -1970 volumes and his simply essential Nick Drake The Life biography published last year.

With Labyrinth, Richard has produced yet another definitive account in preserving the deep heritage of UK record releases. This analysis of British jazz is utterly compelling and visually spectacular.

I would very much welcome a similar volume focusing on British Progressive Rock 1966 – 1976. Given his pedigree, there would be only one man for the job.

Over to you Richard…

Meanwhile, Labyrinth – British Jazz On Record 1960 -75 will keep purveyors of the genre and indeed record collectors in general well happy.

This magnificent book is highly recommended -and it’s sure to inspire every reader to find out more about this important sector of British music.

Dave Lewis – February 8 2024

My thoughts on…

Paul McCartney and Wings – Band On The Run 50th Anniversary Edition (2 CD edition)

I purchased the Band On The Run album the week of its release in early December 1973.

I was (still am) a massive Wings fan and back then I had bought all the records they had released since late 1971.

This third Wings album was the flowering of a great unit – stripped back to a threesome for this Lagos recorded album but soon to be a full five piece band again and set to fill arenas and stadiums across the world.

Band On The Run was the catalyst for this acclaim – selling in Beatle like quantities and dominating the charts for over a year. A brilliant album then and a brilliant album now.

There has been a fair few reissues of this set already notably a 1999 25th anniversary package and a 2010 box set. To mark the 50th anniversary here comes a 2LP and 2 CD reconfiguration.

First things first: The original album presented here in the US version which adds the late 1973 stand alone single Helen Wheels sounds as fresh and invigorating as it did half a century ago.

Everything about this set is pure Macca perfection.

Wings had a melodic total sound of their own – the chiming guitars, the close knit sweet harmonies, and over their history the changing line ups  featured some very talented musicians not least Henry McCullough and Jimmy McCulloch  – and of course the mainstay of the group the recently departed Denny Laine.

Wings were very much a product of the time – and as much a part of the 70s as Glam Rock or any other musical development. Their cheery optimism offered a respite from the grimness of a Britain under the threat of the IRA and the oil crises that led to a temporary three day working week.

So to the additional record or CD -the main attraction for collectors.

Under the description ‘Underdubbed Mixes’ these are the rough mixes of the Band On The Run recordings as they were presented to engineer Geoff Emerick upon their return to the UK in the autumn of 1973.

Booking studio time at George Martin’s Air Studios the the McCartney’s and Denny Laine set to work on adding the sheen to the tracks cut in Lagos. Crucially, they turned to the revered Tony Visconti to add the stirring string arrangements. An old Liverpool Mersey Beat foil Howard Casey came along to add some sprightly saxophone work.

Presented in a slightly different track listing order, the basic songs are all present and correct sans the various overdubs that would embellish these tracks manifold. The exception is Nineteen Hundred And Eighty Five which is just a backing track with no main vocals.

These are not what could be termed outtakes or alternate versions and have few variants in terms of their structure. That said it’s facinating to hear them in this raw state. It really highlight the clarity of McCartney’s superb vocals, Linda’s underrated precise synth work and Denny’s input on guitar and harmonies. One song that really stands out is the short and sweet No Words – a McCartney/Laine composition high on melody and low on frills – simple but effective.

Stripped back, the other underlying fact that emerges is just how good these songs were and how their foundations warranted building on. The subsequent additional studio sessions at Air bringing the potential of the album to full fruition.

For this new edition I went for the 2 CD package rather than the 2 LP vinyl which at over £50 is not cheap. I also have little room for LPs!

There has already been a bells and whistles deluxe edition of Band On The Run that appeared in 2010. This box set package offered up sleeve notes by Paul Gambacinni and a DVD of promo videos’ and the 1974 One Hand Clapping film documentary.

Perhaps this time around they could have added Zoo Gang and Oriental Nightfish which were also recorded at the time of the Air sessions in late 1973 – plus the Helen Wheels B side Country Dreamer. Or added a 1975 live recording from their UK tour of that year. Maybe that’s being saved for the inevitable Venus And Mars revamp

Disappointingly, the CD version  has no sleeve liner notes whatsoever. Not even a cursory few words from McCartney himself which has been the norm on the extended Beatles reissues.

Ten years ago upon its 40th anniversary I wrote a lengthy feature for Record Collector on the making of Band On The Run – hey Paul you only had to ask and I’d happily have allowed you access to my scribing’s back then for this new edition!

My Band On The Run feature was the cover story of Record Collector issue published in December 2013. At the time it was great to delve into a non Zep subject and I had some great input to my fellow expert Beatles/Wings collecting comrade Paul Humbley.

The only bonus paper item on this 2024 issue is a replica of the fold out poster of Linda’s polaroid snaps of their time in Lagos. This proves ineffective in a CD sized format as they are all small pics.

The front cover art work has been tastefully re-designed to feature the three portraits of Paul, Linda and Denny. CD One is packaged in the famous prison escapees cover and how sad it is that of the nine celebrities’ in the original photo, only Paul and former boxing champion John Conteh are still alive.

Summary:

Any release of  this seminal Macca opus is welcome in my book. Revisiting the likes of the title track, Jet, Mamunia, Mr’s Vandebilt, Let Me Roll It, Bluebird, No Words and more has been a real tonic this past week and this roller coaster ride of Wings in their prime has made spring feel just that little bit nearer.

Dave Lewis – February 15 2024

My thoughts on the recently opened  HMV Store 363 Oxford Street…

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Friday February 23:

Friday treats at the always excellent Slide Record Shop…

Saturday February 24

I was given a tour of the shop by Gibson Pro Benji Ryder. He was incredibly knowledgeable in all aspects of the store offer. The ground floor features a range of classic Gibson models both electric and acoustic.

Suspended above the counter area are two very impressive revolving hanging plinths presenting an array of Gibson guitars of all shapes and colours. There are over 300 guitars on show throughout the shop.

   

There’s a special single wall display of the legendary guitars namely the Gibson Les Paul, Gibson SG, Gibson Flying V and the Gibson ES-335. Each display was accompanied by an information plaque explaining the history of each model.

I wasn’t able to have access to the VIP area as their were meetings going on but Sam and Benji did arrange a photo of me with the fabled Les Paul guitar that was being showcased. A great thrill.

There’s no doubt the London Gibson Guitar shop is going to be a go-to essential destination for musicians and music fans alike. It’s a fabulous setting for visitors to revel in the heritage of the iconic Gibson guitar brand.

If you are in London be sure to check it out…

Dave Lewis – March 6 2024

My thoughts on Led Zeppelin Motor Speedway 1969…

On the player the newly acquired Led Zeppelin Motor Speedway 1969 LP. This arrived today …

Produced by the Vinyl Champ/Lumi Entertainment label, this is the latest in the grey area unofficial semi bootleg releases which have flooded the market in recent years –often masquerading as a’ Live Radio Broadcast.’

It’s a single LP offering of what it describes on the front cover as: ‘’Best of Led Zeppelin at Texas International Pop Festival Dallas, International Motor Speedway, Lewisville TX USA, August 31 1969’’

To my knowledge, this performance was never aired as a radio performance but was sourced from a very good soundboard recording.

By the cover wordings own admission, this is not the complete hour long set but a five track edit. It omits the lengthy version of How Many More Times – so what we get is Train Kept a Rollin’/I Cant Quit You Baby/Dazed And Confused on Side one and the ten minute You Shook Me and four minute Communication Breakdown on side 2. Total playing time is 38 minutes.

There is a already bootleg vinyl version on Open Mind Records that does pack the whole show in on one LP.

The good news here is that the sound quality is slightly better than the Open Mind version as with less tracks, there’s a slight sonic improvement.

One thing that is annoying is that the band announcement ‘’Ladies and Gentlemen please welcome the Led Zeppelin’’ spoken as Jimmy warms up has been left off – instead it cuts straight into Train Kept a Rollin’.

I of course should add that there is absolutely nothing wrong with the music – a steller Zep 1969 performance when they were making great waves with every gig . For me this is one of the best live Zep performances of the early era. I thoroughly enjoyed playing it this afternoon.

Summary:

Motor Speedway 1969 is not in the essential purchase category but one for vinyl collectors and attractively packed on lime green vinyl. It can be picked up for around £25.

Dave Lewis – March 2 2024

London Record Shop Analysis..

 My London record shop thoughts…

I often get asked for advice from visitors to London on what are the best record shops to check out. On my last visit a few weeks back I conducted a record shop analysis of the shops to be found in the Berwick Street and Soho areas – so here goes..

Sister Ray Records:

75 Berwick St, London W1F 8TG

Now this is my kind of record shop. Sister Ray (named after the Velvet Underground track) is a two floor shop on the right side of Berwick Street as you turn in from Oxford Street.

It used to be in a larger site across the road.

The top floor has racks on CDs both sides – plenty of bargains to be had here. The counter area also stacks various titles for under a fiver. The latest issues of Record Collector and Shindig! magazines are always were on show too.

Behind the counter there’s always a choice selection of the latest box set release. The basement floor is taken up with racks of mainly second hand vinyl LPs and singles.

There’s a cheaper section of titles at £1.99 and 3 for £5. Lots of rarities to be seen on the displays above the racks. The singles area has a £1 ex Juke Box section and a great selection of 60s/70s vintage singles rock, reggae, soul, psych and punk. The pricing is very reasonable and there are always a few demos and promos in there – I’ve snapped up a fair few of these over the years and on the day I was there last week bagged a couple of Marvin Welsh & Farrar demos on the Regal Zonophone label,

It may be a smaller unit than it once was but they pack in a variety of interesting stock. The staff are good too and the guy there went out of his way to fine the last copy of the 1962 British Hit parade a 60s compilation set I needed another copy of.

I rarely come out of Sister Ray without buying – the sign of a shop that is always an essential stop off as I make my way to the TBL office (also known as The Spice of Life)…

Reckless Records

30 Berwick St, London W1F 8RH

Another essential Berwick Street stop off. Reckless Records has a long standing reputation for being a magnet for collectors. It’s packed with interesting stock . The emphasis is firmly on LPs of every genre –both new pressings and second hand.. There’s also plenty of CDs, many at sale prices. It also stocks a lot of  singles –notably a rack full £1 bargains.

Reckless caters for the high end market too with lots of rare pressings to be seen above the main racks. A Led Zeppelin I in the turquoise let sleeve as on sale for a cool £1,500

With a constant stream of new stock arriving, there’s always something to wade through on every visit.

Sounds Of The Universe

 7 Broadwick St, London W1F ODA

Just around the corner from Reckless is Sounds of the Universe. This shop specialises in soul, funk and jazz Lps and singles but also has plenty of rock titles. There’s always a great selection of rock, soul and jazz books. The shop is well presented and clearly priced. There’s a basement area specialising in reggae along with more books. I’ve had a few bargains from here over the years – notably the Nick Drake Remembered For a While book for £15 and again it’s a shop always worth a look in.

Fopp

1 Earlham St,

Fopp is situated on the corner of Cambridge Circus – it’s named after a track on the Ohio Players  1975 album Honey. It’s not a collectors store as such as it only deals in new stock. However, there is much to seek out between the three tightly cramped floors.

From the moment you walk in this is a store that shouts ‘’buy me!’’ The front area has multiple displays of the latest releases plus piles of bargain value books – for instance they had The Beatles large format Get Back book reduced by half price to £15.

Further into the ground floor there’s DVDs, book offers, T shirts and plenty of themed end panels. There’s boxes of sale LPs plus a 3 for £55 vinyl offer.

The lower floor is packed with DVDs.  On climbing the stairs to the upper floor there’s an array of classic albums on CD racked at the front. The central A-Z racks are full of CDs.  To the left there a deep catalogue presentation of LPs. Books galore at the counter area mostly for under £7.

A number of CD titles are racked to commemorate the year they were released –again this all adds to the specialist feel of the store.

This Fopp store has been a favourite for years –and though the prices have raised a little, it’s still a very happening store with product offers everywhere you look.  It’s great for keeping up to date with recently released reissues etc and has long since been a key destination in filling gaps in my CD collection and more. There are still bargain priced CDs on offer from £3

A word of warning – it might be advisable not to visit the TBL office also known as The Spice Of Life  before a visit to Fopp. A couple of pints tends to heighten the desire for the Fopp retail experience!

Summary:

I often get asked which are London’s best record shops to visit – Sister Ray, Reckless Records Sound of the Universe and Fopp are a great starting point as they are all in close proximity and within easy access of the Oxford Circus /Piccadilly tube stations

Elsewhere there’s Rough Trade East in Brick Lane, Flashback Records in Islington and Crouch End, Music & Video Exchange in Notting Hill Gate , Casbah Records in Greenwich, Sounds Original in Ealing (I have the latter pair on my to visit list) and the Spitalfields Record Fair on the first and third Friday of each month. Plus the regular VIP Record Fairs at Victoria on January, April, September and November.

Out of London I’d recommend Empire Records in St, Albans, Black Circle Records in Leighton Buzzard, Relevant Record Café in Cambridge and Bedford’s Slide Record shop.

I’m sure there are many other great record shops dotted around the London area – let me know if there’s one you know of that I can add to this list…

Dave Lewis – March 2024

Wednesday March 13:

Recent DL CD acquisition:

I Am A Lineman For The County – Glen Campbell Sings Jimmy Webb…

Having seen the excellent review in Uncut for this just released Glen Campbell CD I knew it was right up my street. I have a fair few Glen LPs and this new collection looked a must-have.

It’s a 23 track overview of every Glen Campbell Jimmy Webb recording from 1967 to the early 1980s.

Being compiled by Bob Stanley for the Ace label is another recommendation – it’s a beauty…

22 March 2024 2,373 views One Comment

Robert Plant Presents Saving Grace featuring Suzi Dian –  Never Ending Spring 2024…

My thoughts on Robert Plant Presents Saving Grace featuring Suzi Dian

London Palladium Sunday March 17 2024:

To the esteemed London Palladium for Robert Plant Presents Saving Grace Featuring Suzi Dian.

Sunday night at the London palladium was a long running variety show screened by ITV and was a big event in many a household including ours when I was young.

Reputations were made and broken – it was the making of a young comedian name of Jimmy Tarbuck, The Beatles took the show by storm in 1963. In 1967 The Rolling Stones caused outrage by not appearing with the other acts at the tadeonal revolving stage finale.

In recent years the venue has become a popular one for many a rock acts with the likes of Bob Dylan holding court – Jimmy Page being at one of his shows there..

I have been here once before for the appearance of the Australian Led Zeppelin Masters tribute show.

Now it’s the stage for Robert Plant and the wonderful Saving Grace.

Robert, looking suitably regal in a smart jacket totally commanded the stage with Suzi Dian from the off.

I’ve said it before but I really am running out of superlatives for this unit. Everything about this performance was perfection.

The vocal interplay between Robert and Suzi really is something to behold. Early examples included a mesmerizing delivery of Cuckoo and an intense Let The Four Winds Blow.

Behind them, the contrasting styles of Tony Kelsey and Matt Worley works a treat – the former throwing in some stinging guitar lines -the latter adding subtly on banjo. Oli Jefferson also adding the percussive punch as required.

The terse vocal approach to Low’s Everybody’s Song has the front pair jostling for attention – there’s also several moments where Robert throws in those ”Ah ah aha” vocal nuances that lit up the likes of Achilles and Nobody’s Fault But Mine back in the day.

Talking of back in the day, The Rain Song is an absolute stand out performance – Suzi’s plaintive accordion accompaniment aiding the mood with a song that just gets better with age.

As does Four Sticks – the arrangement here as they slow down for the ” When the owls cry in the night” refrain” being a moment of high drama.

On the home straight the Bert Jansch cover It Don’t Bother Me featured Robert on bass guitar.

The crowd pleasing strut of Angel Dance led the way to the finish line alongside a riveting encore of Gallows Pole and the communal I Bid You Goodnight. May Queen was also down on the set list as an encore but wasn’t played.

Summary:

Another steller Saving Grace performance – every song delivered with immense passion. One can only marvel at Robert’s gift of constantly surrounding himself with musicians who are totally at one with his musical intent.

Tunbridge Wells, Peterborough, Nottingham, Royal Albert Hall, Liverpool, Sheffield and Blackburn are next in line for the Robert Plant featuring Suzi Dian Saving Grace experience.

Believe me, It’s an experience to absolutely savour…

 

Dave Lewis – March 18 2024

On stage photos by the always brilliant Peter Chow

Set list pic via Mick Bulow.

TBL pre gig meet:

Here’s some pics from yesterday’s meet in the TBL office also known as the Spice Of Life and at the London Palladium before the Robert Plant Saving Grace gig. It was all going on in the pub with the Utd v Liverpool FA Cup semi final on and plenty of St Patrick’s Day revelers.

There was one very big downer. My friends Phil and Ian who I had got tickets for both were unable to get into London as the Euston train line was completely out which was such a disappointment to say the least.

It was great to hook up with Mitch over from Belgium for the gig plus Michaela and Bob, Mick and Berni, Richard Grubb, Jonathan Taylor, Patrick Cullen, my long- time friend Kam (we first saw Robert Plant together back in 1985 at Wembley Arena). It was also great to see Dave Roberts and his wife Cindy over from Canada – such a support to us here over many years. I also bumped into Beatles author David Stark in the Spice of Life.

A superb Robert Plant Saving Grace gig matched with a TBL meet with like-minded people from far and wide – lovely people who share the passion for this fantastic music we all love – it was all a bit life affirming…

With Mitch in The Spice of Life and with Dave Roberts and wife Cindy at the London Palladium

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Robert Plant Presents Saving Grace Featuring Suzi Dian 

New Theatre Peterborough – Saturday March 20…

Tp Peterborough for my 130th occasion of seeing Robert Plant live going back to 1971. I was 15 years old when I first saw him on stage and now some 54 years later going on 68 my enthusiasm and passion for his music remains as fervent as ever.

The reason is simple – he is still a captivating performer with a vocal ability that defies the passing years. He also surrounds himself with musicians who are totally at one with his vision.  That is certainly the case with  Suzi Dian (vocals, accordion, bass), Oli Jefferson (drums, percussion), Matt Worley (guitars, mandolin, banjo, cuatro) and Tony Kelsey (guitars, mandolin) who make up the brilliant Saving Grace unit.

Last night I was very fortunate to be watching the action unfold from a front row seat and being in such close proximity was a thrilling experience.

The setlist was in line with Sunday’s Palladium show with one addition. During the encore of Gallows Pole Robert veered off into a scintillating In My Time of Dying segment. It took my breath away.

So gig 130 was another special one…

Now here’s a thing. The first lines I ever heard him sing live back at the Empire Pool Wembley on the night of November 21 1971 was’ ‘We come from the land of the ice and snow ” the opening to Led Zeppelin’s Immigrant Song.

The last words I heard him speak last night at the end of the show (slightly tongue in cheek) was ”We’re Saving Grace and we come from the land of the ice and snow.”

The words remain the same as does Robert Plant’s brilliance…

Dave Lewis – March 21 2024

27 March 2024 1,368 views No Comment

Pic Instagram/randallmbrown

John Paul Jones back on stage…

These reports via Led Zep News…

John Paul Jones played a rare solo show on March 22 in Knoxville, Tennessee as part of the Big Ears music festival.

Jones began the performance by playing a Wurlitzer pipe organ, rising from the organ’s pit wearing a pair of metallic silver shoes and performing “Your Time Is Gonna Come” from Led Zeppelin’s debut album on the instrument that was originally installed in the theatre in 1928.

“It was such fun, I couldn’t resist it,” Jones said of playing the organ later in the show.

Here’s the setlist for the performance:

• Your Time Is Gonna Come (on Wurlitzer pipe organ)
• No Quarter (on grand piano)
• Down To The River To Pray (on triple neck electric mandolin)
• Ramble On (on bass guitar)
• Nosumi Blues (on lap steel guitar)
• When The Levee Breaks (on lap steel guitar with a snippet of In My Time Of Dying at the end)
• Since I’ve Been Loving You (on piano)
• Improvisation (on piano)
• Going To California (on mandolin)
• Bass solo
• No Quarter

The show began with Jones rising from the organ’s pit:

Jones then performed “Ramble On” playing a Fender Jazz Bass guitar. “I remember how this one works,” he quipped as he switched to the bass guitar.

“I was rabbit holing down the internet one day, as you do, and I see a thing that says John Paul Jones isolated bass. Isolated bass?! And it turns out that people use this software … it gets rid of all the less important things,” he said as he introduced the song. “So I listened to that … I thought, do you know? I’m sure nobody else has played an isolated bass part live.”

“Maybe the other parts were more important than I was letting on,” he joked afterwards.

Later in the show, Jones played “Nosumi Blues” from his 1999 album Zooma and then “When The Levee Breaks” on a lap steel guitar:

Jones also played “Going To California” on a mandolin. “This is what we used to call in Led Zeppelin ‘the acoustic set’,” he said. “I used to have 30 guys to do this stuff,” he said as he adjusted the microphone.

“Here’s a little number again, I used to do with other people. But here I am and here it is,” he said before the song.

Photographs posted online by attendees of the performance show Jones’ custom Manson triple neck guitar on stage along with a Fender Jazz Bass guitar, a Steinway grand piano and a laptop.

John Paul Jones performed with Thurston Moore from Sonic Youth in Knoxville, Tennessee on March 24 as part of the Big Ears music festival.

The performance was the final show Jones played during the festival after playing a rare solo show on March 22 and then performing as part of Sons Of Chipotle on March 23.

Jones and Moore played instrumental songs on stage together with Jones playing a Manson bass guitar featuring his symbol from Led Zeppelin’s fourth album and then a grand piano, according to videos and photos of the performance posted online.

Many thanks to Mike Tully for sending through the first reports and clips last Friday. 

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My thoughts on Ovation celebrating 24 years of Teenage Cancer Trust concerts..

Sunday March 24 2024:

I’ve been lucky enough to catch a few  Teenage Cancer Trust concerts over the years notably  the remarkable night in 2002 when Jimmy Page and Robert Plant performed separately on a bill that included Gary Moore and Paul Weller headlining, Robert Plant & Strange Sensation in 2005, Them Crooked Vultures in 2010 , The Who performing Quadrophenia in 2011…

This Ovation night was scheduled to mark Roger Daltrey’s bowing out of curating the Teenage Cancer Trust shows and to acknowledge his remarkable 24 years at the helm of it all.

With a line up that included Paul Weller,Kelly Jones,Eddie vVdder and Robert Plant with Saving Grace,tickets were hard to come by but Richard Grubb and I secured a couple in the upper circle on the day they went on sale.

When Robert then announced a string of UK dates this period became very busy. So this Sunday date at the Albert became the third occasion of witnessing the brilliant Saving Grace in the space of a seven day period.

Given the prestige aspect of this  last night of the Teenage Cancer Trust shows, I knew it was one that was not to be missed.

However, getting in to London last Sunday was not easy. With work on the railway lines this meant there were no direct trains into London from Bedford. Instead a bus replacement service was laid on. So it was I found myself on a bus bound for Hitchin on a fairly bright Sunday afternoon. Throughout the journey the driver, obviously a reggae fan had the likes of Bob Marley & The Wailers playing. There was a certain irony when I identified this to be the 1979 live Marley album Babylon By Bus!

A quick zip over to Soho and there was another omen that indicated this was going to be a good day. Upon walking into the Sister Ray record shop I was greeted by the plaintive tones of Robert Plant singing If I Ever Got Lucky coming out of the overhead speakers. It sounded superb.

So to the magnificent Royal Albert Hall. Despite being high up in the circle area we had a clear sightline to the action and the sound was excellent throughout.

Paul Weller, Kelly Jones and Eddie Vedder all performed in an acoustic or semi acoustic set up. First up was Paul Weller as he put it caustically ”I’m the warm up act”.

I am a big Weller fan of many years standing so it was a joy to see him relaxed and in the zone with a mainly laid back set. His vocals were particularly strong and well suited to the material. Gratify and May Fly were early highlights and it was a delight to hear a run through of the Style Council’s Man of Great Promise. Rockets from the 2020 On Sunrise album was also excellent. Following a well received Wild Wood Roger Daltrey was brought on to duet on a lovely rendering of The Who’s So Sad About Us. A stomp through That’s Entertainment one of the finest songs ever written in my book sealed the deal.

In between the change over the brilliant version of Mark Knopfler’s Going Home (Theme From Local Hero)  and a cast of many was aired on the video screen. This new recording features  everyone from David Gilmour to Ronnie Wood, Slash to Eric Clapton, Sting to Joan Armatrading, Bruce SpringsteentoPete Townshend, Nile Rodgers to Joan Jett, Brian May to Tony Iommi, Joe Walsh, Sam Fenderand many more The track opens with Jeff Beck’s final recording. This has been made available to aid the Teenage Cancer Trust and Teen Cancer America. it was a real thrill to hear it on this special night.

Enter Kelly Jones. I’ve been an admirer from a distance of his work with Stereophonics but seeing him in this context was a revelation. Opener Local Boy In The Photograph was packed with emotion. There was a nice touch when he spoke of his awe at being in such illustrious company tonight and referenced originally buying a copy of Led Zeppelin II. Maybe Tomorrow inspired mass audience participation as did Dakota.

Roger Daltrey received a deserved standing ovation when he came on to explain the impact the Teenage Cancer Trust concerts have had. This was further emphasised by the appearance of several young people who have benefitted first hand from the care they received via the Trust. Roger requested we all get are phone torches out which duly produced a stunning visual display across the hall. There a method in this too as he then told us to now text £10 via the text message link – -”If we all do that another 60,000 will come in”

The second half began with Eddie Vedder. I am not much of a Pearl Jam fan myself although again, I admire them from a distance. Elderly Woman Behind the Counter and a poignant My Father’s Daughter with his daughter Olivia were the stand out moments. He was joined by Simon Townshend for a version of brother Pete’s She Asked Me. Glenn Hansard was another guest vocalist. Porch from the Ten album was the set closer.

Then it was time for Robert Plant and Saving Grace featuring Suzi Dian. They were introduced by Roger and Robert mentioned seeing The Who on stage at the Stourbridge Town Hall way back when.

Of course I’m biased but Saving Grace really did take it all up to another level. Oli Jefferson’s full drum kit ( the first of the night) provided a welcome kick and the chemistry this band weaves transferred to the big stage with effortless ease. Although Robert made a wry comment that by playing the Royal Albert Hall they may be punching above their weight, this was entirely not the case. It was a captivating and compelling performance from the off.

Gospal Plow, As I Roved Out, Too Far From You – these songs have been regular companions  of the past few days. As has the brilliant Low cover Everybody’s Song. Angel Dance ramped up the tempo. Friends was a welcomed Zep throwback and there was just enough time for And I Bid You Goodnight.

As the singer stated ”It’s never too late to start again”

Leading into the grand finale there were video tributes to Roger from the likes of Dave Gilmour, Paul McCartney and Nile Rodgers.

And then there he was centre stage the man of the night. Roger’s vocals were incredibly powerful throughout. There was a nod to Pete T with a run through Let My Love Open the door, a jaunty Squeeze  Box (inspiring memories for me of The Who at Charlton in 1976) and then one of the highlights of the night – a peerless delivery of Giving It All A Way the Leo Sayer composition from Roger’s 1973 debut album.

The Way It Is was performed with Simon Townshend. After the Fire was another welcomed inclusion. Taj Mahal’s Freedom Ride followed – a deep dive into the funky blues. A shout out from the crowd for Substitute was duly addressed by Roger ‘ We don’t do Substitute -thats the other band.” Another surprise was the sweet ballad from the McVicar soundtrack Without You Love.

Finally Baba O Riley – a suitable celebratory ending with Robert, Eddie and Kelly back on stage to help out. Violinist Katie Jackoby ran riot across the stage for manic speeded up outro.

It was great to see the ex Robert Plant band guitarist Doug Boyle up on stage as part of Roger’s line up -there was a nice moment too when he and Robert shook hands.

Summery:

Of course this was Roger’s night and it was a fitting musical tribute to all his work in generating millions for the Teenage Cancer Trust over the past 24 years.

Though he wont be curating things anymore, Roger will still be a part of it – his name is synonymous with the charity and always will be. He might  baulk at the idea and offer up some colourful language should the subject come up but isn’t it time for Roger Daltrey to receive a much deserved knighthood?

Whatever happens ahead – on Sunday he was our Sir Roger of Albert and we loved him for it…

Dave Lewis – March 27 2024

Beforehand it was great to hook up with Richard Grubb, Dave and Cindy Roberts, Jonathan Tayler and Owen, Mick and Berni Bulow, Kris Jantzen and Melvyn Billingham over from Italy and his nephew Tom. In the venue it was great to bump in to Debbie Bonham and Pete Bullick.

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Tuesday March 26:

I am a keen collector of the 2 originals Of double album series.

These vinyl record releases were popular in the 1970s.

Issued via the Warner Brothers and Atlantic labels, each set re packaged two popular artists single albums (often their debut and second albums) into a bargain double album.

For example in the case of The Faces the pairing is the First Step and Long Player albums.

The original artwork of each album was retained for the gatefold inner sleeve while the front had a distinct generic title design.

An often garish cartoon image depicting either the artist or part of the original sleeve design, these sleeve artwork illustrations were all designed by Patrick v. Spreckelsen.

This album series originated out of Germany often without the artists being aware. This policy created a much sought after Led Zeppelin rarity.

In 1974 WEA as it was then known, decided to repackage Led Zeppelin I and II for release in Germany only under the 2 Originals Of banner.

When Zep manager Peter Grant heard about this he immediately requested that it be withdrawn.

As is well known, Grant managed his clients with an iron fist control and he was not happy about a release by Zep he had not sanctioned.

However, a few copies did go on sale for a short period and these sets are now much sought after by collectors with an asking price of £100 plus.

I was well pleased a few years ago to come across a copy in the London VIP Victoria record fair for a bargain £20!

So far I’ve collected 2 Originals Of by the following: The aforementioned Led Zeppelin, The Faces, The Mothers of Invention, Herbie Mann, Iron Butterfly, Ted Nugent, Fleetwood Mac, Little Feat, Van Morrison, Jesse Winchester, Gordon Lightfoot, James Taylor, Carly Simon, Neil Young, Stephen Stills, David Crosby & Graham Nash and Frank Sinatra.

I’ll be bringing one of these along tonight to the always excellent Pete Burridge Record Club at the Castle – hey Pete which one do you reckon ?

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My thoughts on the Paul Young No Parlez 2 CD 40th anniversary edition…

There’s a bit of standing joke amongst my record collecting comrades on which albums can be relied upon to turn up most frequently in the charity shop racks.

One of the leading contenders is Paul Young’s 1983 album No Parlez.

Hardly a week goes by when one of us will not spot a copy in one of the many charity shops we visit regularly and usually for a mere £1 to £2 a copy.

It was certainly a massive seller back in 1983 and 1984 and was the album that sent Paul’s career into the stratosphere.  Quite why it’s been so discarded is difficult to tell but that is the way it is.

So, you may call me a fool but I’ve just paid about 10 times more than the going charity shop rate for a brand new copy of No Parlez.

However this is no mere copy – it’s the recently released 2 CD set marking the album’s 40th anniversary.

It’s a rather splendid package too. It’s presented in a 7 inch single style gatefold sleeve that opens up to house the two CD’s.

CD One is the No Parlez album as it appeared in 1983.

So here’s the thing…

Firstly, It’s a nostalgic listen as this was the soundtrack to the good lady Janet and I’s courting days and subsequent wedding. In fact the No Parlez album was in the top 20 album chart all of 40 years ago when we tied the knot.

Secondly, it’s a great album and has held up very well.

Paul was and is a great singer and a very good interpreter of other artist’s songs. This was evident with his the number one single – Wherever I Lay MyHat (That’s My Home) – a cover of the Marvin Gaye, Barrett Strong &,Norman Whitfield composition.

His versions of the Nicky Thomas reggae hit Love Of The Common People and Joy Division’s Love Will Tear Us Apart are equally effective.

CD Two comprises of various 7 and 12 inch mixes, extended club mixes and remix versions. There’s a lot to enjoy here and I was well pleased to see the superb B side Yours included.

No Parlez may well still be a regular in the bargain bins but this superb new 2 CD version restores it to a more credible position and is a fitting 40th anniversary reissue of an album that defines the more fruitful end of an 80s musical era that Paul Young was a leading part of…

Dave Lewis – April 4 2024

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Bob Harris & Colin Hall – The Songs The Beatles Gave away…

To the excellent Quarry Theatre in Bedford last night with my good lady janet friend Lee for the presentation of The Songs The Beatles Gave Away hosted by the legendary broadcaster ‘whispering’ Bob Harris and the renowned Beatles archivist and author Colin Hall – also the author of the book of the same name.

This tour they are undertaking grew out of a radio special Bob compiled and presented for Radio Two on the fascinating subject of the songs Lennon & McCartney and George Harrison wrote and gave to other artists.

The format in presenting this show was a simple one. Just Bob and Colin seated onstage – there were no backdrop visuals. I’d already seen the show back in January at the Stables venue in Milton Keynes. There was a fair few differences to that show – it’s more than evident that Bob and Colin can ad-lib at will around the main subjects.

The main source in bringing the saga to life was via the playing of interview clips of some of the main players in the story – McCartney, George Harrison, Cilla Black, Mary Hopkin, Jackie Lomax and George Martin among them. Clips from the Radio Two broadcast and of course, the songs themselves added to the overall effect.

Bob’s familiar warm tones and his passion for the subject perfectly complimented the affable input of the Liverpool born Colin Hall. Colin’s credentials include being the custodian of John Lennon’s childhood home Mendips for 20 years, guiding visitors and tourists around the National Trust building.

Colin has an extensive and impressive knowledge of the subjects discussed. He relayed them in an enlightening and often dry witted scouse manner that drew the audience in from the start. Colin and Bob both set the scene with thoughts on the dynamics of the Lennon and McCartney songwriting partnership.

By 1963 the pair had written so many songs they simply couldn’t all be accommodated on just their own Beatles releases, so it made artistic and economic good sense to be offered to other artists for recording and the Merseybeat boom of 1963 & 1964 gave them a tailor-made outlet in artists such as Cilla Black, Billy J. Kramer and Tommy Quickly. This is the story behind those songs, the hits, the misses and the demos that the group never released: ‘The Songs The Beatles Gave Away’.

The format in presenting this show was a simple one. Just Bob and Colin seated onstage – there were no backdrop visuals.

Now I consider myself well versed in the Beatles story and I am an avid collector of Beatles cover versions and giveaways but there is always so much more to learn and that was certainly the case here.

The middle eight that John wrote for a song that ended up on an Adam Faith album? How John provided the initial J for Billy J Kramer’s stage name? All was revealed here and so much more.

Cilla told of her surprise (surprise!) at finding herself in the studio to record a brass embellished Love Of The Loved as her debut single. There was mention too of the obscure One & One is Two a rare Beatle related chart miss for The Strangers with Mike Shannon (not the famous footballer as Bob mischievously commented.)

Towards the end of the first half, Colin stood up on stage to lead the audience through a singalong of Billy J Kramer’s Bad To Me (”The birds in the sky would be sad and lonely If they knew that I’d lost my one and only” ) and Peter & Gordan’s World Without Love (‘’Please lock me away and don’t allow the day’’)

The second half delved into the latter years with subjects ranging from Paul’s work on The Family Way soundtrack in 1966 with George Martin, the instrumental Catcall he gave to jazzman Chris Barber, the recording of the TV theme Thingamabob with the Black Dyke Mills Band and George Harrison’s offering of Sour Milk Sea to Jackie Lomax and Badge for Cream.

Bob Harris offered a personal  anecdote of having holidays in South Wales and meeting a young Mary Hopkin. There was a lovely clip of Mary revealing her wonder at working with Paul on the 1969 hit Goodbye. Badfinger’s Come and Get It from the same year was also aired.

The absolute highlight of the evening was a clip of Cilla Black explaining how Paul wrote the theme tune for her first BBC TV series. This was followed by an airing of a rare demo recording of Paul and Cilla with George Martin in attendance running through the wonderful Step Inside Love.

Mary Hopkin’s first hand experience of working with Paul on her 1969 McCartney penned Goodbye was also enlightening as was the story of how Carlos Mendes came to record the obscure Penina which Paul had written on holiday in Portugal.

The evening ended with a sing along to the version of Stand By Me Bob organiseds during lockdown which featured an  array of artists have come together under the banner ‘Whispering Bob’s Allstars’, including Paul Rogers, Mark Knopfler, PP Arnold Peter Frampton, Rick Wakeman, Richard Thompson all proceeds going to the Help Musicians charity.

The song is Bob’s all time favourite and he recounted the story of when he travelled to New York to interview John for the Old Grey Whistle Test in 1975. John had just released the Rock’N ‘Roll album and recorded a brilliant version for airing on the show – (check it out on YouTube)

We left the Quarry Theatre to the always uplifting sounds of All You Need Is Love.

Afterwards, it was an absolute pleasure to meet Bob and Colin and they signed various books and merchandise.

All in all, a very enjoyable evening and another delightful re-telling of the joyous continuing soundtrack of our years – the story that keeps on giving.

Last night at in presenting The Songs The Beatles Gave Away Bob Harris and Colin Hall talked us through another aspect of the act we’ve known for all these years – and it was truly fab…and being close to home Janet and I were even able to walk home on a not so long and winding road…

Dave Lewis – April 7 2024

Details of the Stand By Me charity single can be found at:

https://www.bobharris.org/press/whisperingbobs-allstars

New Led Zeppelin vinyl bootlegs:

Led Zeppelin – Tonight You Will Be Happy – Osaka 1971 (2 LP set Headley Grange Records) 

Another day another Led Zeppelin bootleg LP -they seem to be appearing at a rapid rate recently.

What we have here is a two record set recorded at the Festival Hall Osaka during Led Zeppelin’s three city five concert tour of Japan  in Japan in September 1971.

These Japanese concerts have long been lauded as some of the very best in Led Zeppelin’s concert history.

While the next evening’s show is perhaps the more high profile, this night has much to commend it. Of course a double album format is not going to be enough to present the whole show so these are mere highlights. Soundboard source includes the quirky ad -hoc one off performances of Please Please Me and From Me To You.

Once again this won’t be for everyone and there are various CD configurations that will give you the whole show.

Led Zeppelin – The Hand That Feeds (3 LP set Swinging Pig Records)

This is the celebrated Fillmore West April 27 1969 performance spread over six sides. Mostly soundboard with some occasional audience drop ins. It claims to be a multitrack remaster. Attractive box package with the famous Ron Raffaelli Jimmy hand open photo and pressed on splatter vinyl. There’s a distinctive lack of  historical sleeve notes which is a missed opportunity. Like many of the vinyl sets the appeal is to vinyl completists only in a limited run of 500.

Dave Lewis – April 25 2024

 

Record Store Day release review:

My thoughts on The Yardbirds Psycho Daises (Demon Records)

The Yardbirds have been well served with recent Record Store Day releases and this one is another gem.

Physio Daises brings together 15 UK and US Yardbirds B sides spanning their whole career.

Although I was aware of their mid 60s pop hits, I began to seriously analyse The Yardbirds output around 1973/74.

With an obvious interest in the part Jimmy Page played in the story, my initial enlightenment arrived in the form of the two classic LP bootlegs The Yardbirds Golden Eggs and More Golden Eggs. I also had a cassette of the official US compilation Yardbirds Featuring performances By Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page.

This would be the first time I heard the Page version of White Summer. In 1974 I also invested at around £5 a go (a lot for a single back then) in the two psych era singles Happening Ten Years Time ago Little Games originally issued in the UK on Columbia in 1966 and 1967.

The B sides of those seminal singles namely Psycho Dasies and Puzzles are all present and correct here on Side B. Before all that over on Side A, proceedings commence in the Clapton era with A Certain Girl, I Ain’t Got You and Got To Hurry.

Enter the guitar whirlwind that was Jeff Beck for the Relf/Beck composed Steeled Blues plus Still I’m Sad, the scintillating A Better Man Than I, I’m Not Talking and New York City Blues.

Side B opens with the sprightly Jeff’s Boogie (that ‘’What’s it all about Alfie?” riff insert gets me every time,) the aforementioned Psycho Daises which has Jeff and Jimmy locking horns for a brief period.

Then there’s the Beck inspired straight ahead strut of The Nazz Are Blue and from there on it’s the Jimmy Page era with the brilliant Puzzles, Tinker Tailor Soldier Sailor (something of a prototype Song Remains The Same and check the bowed guitar – another future Zep trademark), the bluesy Drinking Muddy Waters (something of a rewrite of Muddy’s Rollin’ And Tumblin’) and as a grand finale the psych tour de force Think About It.

The latter, issued only in the US is a clear indication of the dynamics Page would take with him into his next band – initially a new Yardbirds line up but then re- christened Led Zeppelin and we know the rest…

Summary

There’s no question when listening through this welcomed set that The Yardbirds’ B sides were never mere throwaways and were up to the standard and beyond of most band’s A sides.

So this is a very worthwhile Record Store Day release that hones in on the creativity of a band who were so often ahead of the game.

Mastered from the original mono single mixdown tapes, pressed on 140g purple vinyl with orange splatters and with excellent liner notes by Yardbirds expert Greg Russo, this is the sort of album that can be held up to all the doubters who think Record Store Day is a money making gimmick.

As long as there is quality product on offer such as The Yardbirds Psycho Daises, for me Record Store Day remains a very viable preposition and one that annually brings together like minded souls in a celebration of their favourite music in their favourite record shop … long may it roll…

Dave Lewis – April 22 2024

Friday May 24:

Friday treats at the Slide Record Shop

Picked up this beauty this afternoon – Sean Khan Presents The Modern Jazz And Folk Ensemble featuring Jacqui McShee, Rosie Frater-Taylor and Kindelan.

Released today on the Acid jazz label – here’s the info:

Saxophone master Sean Khan presents a brand new album project on Acid Jazz – The Modern Folk & Jazz Ensemble. The album explores the sounds of the late-’60s/early-’70s folk revival, recast and reimagined in a jazz setting with featured guest singers, including compositions by Pentangle, Sandy Denny, John Martyn and Nick Drake. Featured vocalists are the legendary Pentangle lead singer Jacqui McShee, acclaimed singer-guitarist Rosie Taylor-Frater, and emerging artist Kindelan. Sean Khan meanwhile is known as one of the UK’s premier saxophonists, and particularly his ‘Supreme Love: A Journey Through Coltrane’ LP. His distinctive Soprano playing can be heard throughout.

I am very much looking forward to this as the track listing is a superb collection of covers including She Moves Through The Fair, John Martyn’s Sold Air, Pentangle’s Light Flight ,Nick Drake’s Parasite and Things Behind The Sun and Sand Denny’s Who Knows Where The Time Goes…

One for my summer playlist for sure…

Thanks Warren and Nerys…

Friday May 24:

Loading up the new Paul Weller album 66 released today – the two CD limited edition with bonus CD containing four bonus tracks.

I see a big parallel between Paul Weller’s career and Robert Plant’s as they constantly strive forward and let the past take care of itself.

I’m very much looking forward to this new album which has had great reviews – I did get to Slide Records this afternoon to invest in the vinyl version but it had sold out (Mat Roberts you beat me to it!)

I will get around to getting it on vinyl, meanwhile the CD version will more than suffice….take it away Modfather…

 

DL charity shop LP find…

I was well pleased today to find this gem – Wowie Zowie! The World Of Progressive Music

1969 compilation sampler in Decca’s World Of series with tracks from Genesis, Savoy Brown, Keef Hartley Band, The Moody Blues ,East of Eden and more.

This copy a mono pressing with inner bag indicating so – the sleeve is a bit worn but the record itself is in very good condition and near mint…

£2? I’ll take it!

Latest DL LP vinyl acquisition:

 

Now here’s a beauty…

Led Zeppelin – Houses Of The Holy – BBC Gramophone Library copy.

I saw this recently when I was randomly checking eBay and was immediately drawn to it and made a successful bid.

Every record I buy can tell a story and this one certainly can.

This is the the UK pressing of Houses of The Holy evidently acquired by the BBC for airplay on the likes of Radio One.

It has a sign out sticker on the front that proclaims:

BBC Gramophone Library

Please return Promptly

Stereo

Requisition – Name – Date of issue

Followed by this quint request:

Please note any serious faults on this record indicating side and band numbers.

The dates that have been marked as it being requisition from the library are 3 April 1986 and 12 Oct 1987 -others are blank so it can be assumed this was a 1980s library album.

Significantly one of the names clearly visible as signing it out is the renowned BBC Radio One producer Jeff Griffin.

Jeff was the producer of Led Zeppelin’s Maida Vale session taped on March 19 and broadcast on April 14 1969 on the BBC World Service Rhythm and

Blues show hosted by Alexis Korner.

Jeff would go on to produce both the 1969 and 1971 Led Zeppelin In Concert appearances – a format he came up with.

Back in 1993 I had some great help from Jeff when I wrote an extensive Led Zeppelin at the BBC feature for Record Collector. He supplied detailed session notes that revealed the accurate dates of the recording and air dates of the sessions – amongst other key details, this revealed for the first time that their 1971 John Peel In Concert had been postponed from March 25 to a revised date of April 1.

This 1993 Record Collector feature was a source of key reference when I worked with Jimmy Page in contributing the sleeve notes to

the 2016 Led Zeppelin Complete BBC Sessions release.

The actual record in this BBC Gramophone Library copy is attached in the gatefold sleeve in a clear plastic inner bag – the original inner sleeve with lyrics having been discarded. This is the standard Atlantic Records 1973 UK pressing catalogue number K50014.

So this is a piece of Led Zep BBC history and I love the fact that this copy would have been requisitioned to be played on the likes of the Alan Freeman and Tommy Vance shows. During the 1980s DJ’s still played actual albums on turntables.

Come the 1990s ,CDs would become the preferred format used on radio shows.

All in all , this is right up there with some of my all- time best finds – the fact that I managed to win the bidding on eBay for £38 being the icing on the cake…I was preparing to pay a lot more…

Like I said – every record I buy has a story…and this one is a great one

Recent DL CD box set bootleg acquisition…

  

Led Zeppelin Thulemann Box

The Complete Album Collection 1969 – 1982

12 CD box set.

What we have here is the complete Led Zeppelin studio album catalogue from Led Zeppelin I through to Coda – 10 albums digitally remastered at Platin Mastering Hamburg Germany in 2005.

Discs 11 and 12 offers reconstructed version of The Soundtrack To The Film The Song Remains The Same.

An unofficial bootleg release in a limited edition of 200. The artwork deploys The Object image from the Presence album. There’s an informative 14 page booklet with album recording info plus notes to how the remastering was undertaken and how The Song Remains The Same Soundtrack was reconstructed via various sources.

It also explains the digital remastering work was done by Mr. Thülemann, a German engineer in Hamburg, Germany, who specializes in high-end mastering. This set originally came out on Japanese release.

I’m not really an audiophile but I know what I like and what I’ve heard so far sounds very sprightly indeed.

I’m a sucker for box sets and this one was a very good price. I often play through the whole Led Zeppelin catalogue one after the other and I have various formats and versions to do that. This box set is another and of course, you can never have too many…

Thursday June 27:

A great meeting of musical/Zep minds yesterday at the Old Fountain pub in Old Street London.

All of them dear friends of mine for many years…

Billy Fletcher down from Scotland who has seen more Robert Plant gigs than anyone I know, Rudi O’ Keefe who has seen more gigs by countless bands than anyone I know (including over 100 Jethro Tull gigs), Dave Fox long time Zep tape collector, Eddie Edwards formerly in the Zep tribute band Simply Led and writer of the brilliant Garden Tapes Zep Madison Square Garden 1973 log, Simon Pallett who co-authored the pioneering Led Zeppelin The Concert File book with me back in the mid 90s and Dave Linwood creator of the TBL website back in 1995.

We had our own mini Zep convention and there was much fun, laughter and insights into our passion for Led Zeppelin and more.

We also had a toast for the much missed Andy Adams…

All very life affirming, though I am nursing a bit of a hangover this morning – all worth it of course to be in such great company.

Thank you guys!

Friday June 28:

Latest DL CD acquisition…

I’ve always loved the Invictus label formed by the Holland –Dozier-Holland song writing team when they parted from Motown. Back in 1970 the likes of Freda Payne’s Band of Gold and The Chairman of The Board’s Give Me Just a Little More Time set the benchmark for a string of hits – the 1972 single Why Can’t We Be Lovers is another Holland-Dozier-Holland gem and one of my favourite singles.

So I was well pleased to read that a new 4 CD set chronicling the work was just out –and it’s a beauty.

What we have here is the Holland-Dozier-Holland Anthology: Detroit 1969-1977.

Collector’s Edition, Limited, Deluxe Edition. 4CDs in gatefold sleeve Deluxe Packaging, 32pp stand-alone booklet . The definitive post-Motown collection of the legendary song-writing trio Holland-Dozier-Holland. 68 tracks taken from the period 1969-1977 when the trio had started their group of labels; Hot Wax, Invictus And Music Merchant.

Extensive liner notes by Stuart Cosgrove known for his award-winning Soul Trilogy Detroit 67: the Year That Changed Soul, Memphis 68: The Tragedy of Southern Soul and Harlem 69: the Future of Soul.

The whole set is packed with innovative soul hits and deep cuts from the second coming of this legendary song writing team.

This one will be very much part of the summer playlist here

London Victoria VIP Record Fair last Saturday…

A big thanks to all those who came along to support the Portraits of Robert Plant Through The Eighties book launch at the London Victoria VIP Record Fair last Saturday.

It was great to see Billy and Alison Fletcher, Eddie Edwards, Keith Creek, Ian Avey, Phil Tattershall, Cliff ‘the ticket man’ Hilliard, Richard Grubb, Mick Bulow, Chris Wells,Ian Saikia, Steve Livesley, Phil Harris, Lee Abrahams, Wanda Chorlton, James Bevis, Ian Dixon, Paul Findley, Alex, Nick Carruthers and John Gunne.

Thanks also to John and Rob at VIP Fairs for their help and organisation and to Mark Smith at Rufus Publishing for making it all happen.

The book is out now and can be ordered via the Rufus Publishing link below:

Here’s some feedback from satisfied buyer Patrick Cullen…

‘’I’m going through the new Robert Plant Portraits book this afternoon, it’s absolute knockout stuff – I’m thoroughly enjoying it. The Madison Square Garden ‘83 and Hammersmith Odeon pictures are outstanding along with Atlantic 40th and Live Aid, it’s all there ! I’ll be digging out my Plant bootlegs from that era now. The physical feel of the book is great too; It’s another worthy addition to my Zep bookcase. Congratulations, it’s an awesome book Dave.’’

ORDERING LINK HERE…

https://www.rufuspublications.com/rufusbooks/plant/

Here’s some pics from a fantastic day…

      

Wednesday September 11:

  

There was a great TBL meeting of Led Zeppelin minds last night at the Old Fountain pub in Old Street London with Billy Fletcher down from Scotland, Julian Walker, Dave Linwood, Simon Pallett, Rudi O’ Keefe, Eddie Edwards and myself.

Amongst an evening of highly entertaining banter, the subjects covered included the time Jimmy Page made a cup of tea for Julian, a vote for the best and worst Led Zeppelin albums in which Physical Graffiti fared well and In Though The Out Door less so, Rudi’s vintage Zep T-shirts, Eddie’s legendary Garden Tapes Zep MSG 1973 analysis ,first Led Zep album purchased (Julian led that one with buying Zep I when it came out in 1969), Bob Langley, bootlegs and more. There were also toasts for the much missed Andy Adams and Howard Mylett.

All in all a wonderful life affirming meet with fellow Zep comrades who I am proud to have known for over 30 years….

Update here:

A very busy week with so many highlights – not least the Robert Plant book launch at the Victoria Record Fair last Saturday and the TBL meet in London on Tuesday night. The book is now shipping out – if you have ordered, be sure to let me know what you think…

My thoughts on Faces at the BBC: Complete BBC Concert & Session Recordings (1970-1973) (Rhino)

There have been plenty of bootlegs of their various Faces BBC sessions and in Concert recordings – I have a few in my collection and more recently there have been two official Record Store Day LP releases. Now we have the very welcomed arrival of this expansive set that tracks every available Faces BBC recording.

The eight CDs include a massive 88 recordings – much of it previously unreleased with material drawn from the four album Faces catalogue -First Step, Long Player, A Nod Is As Good As A Wink…To A Blind Horse…, and Ooh La La) plus material Rod recorded for his solo albums including Gasoline Alley, Every Picture Tells A Story and Never A Dull Moment.

The Blu-ray disc includes newly restored footage of The Faces BBC 2 TV appearance on Sounds for Saturday recorded in late 1971 and aired in April 1972.

It’s a superb package presented in an LP size gatefold design with the CDs in slots -similar to the Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Déjà vu and Who’s Next sets.

There’s a superb 48 page booklet-page booklet with new commentary from the surviving band members and quotes from Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, and the late great John Peel – a big supporter of the group.

Rod Stewart states, “If it wasn’t for John Peel, The Faces would never have broken through”. Ronnie Wood concurs, “He gave The Faces our first break” as does Kenney Jones: “John Peel helped the Faces so much in England, in the press and on his show.”

The very detailed and informative booklet has an enlightening summary of how the set was compiled by The Faces reissue producer Rob Caiger, plus a typically enthusiastic overview of the band by DJ Gary Crowley who also conducts a very interesting interview with BBC producer Jeff Griffin.

During the interview, Jeff touches on the fact that the Sunday In Concert concept came out of a conversation he had with Jimmy Page & Robert Plant who felt a live presentation of the group would work well. This led to the pilot recording of Led Zeppelin at dubbed One Night Stand and aired in August 1969. From there Jeff was given a 13 week series in early 1970 which was then extended and became a staple part of the Radio One schedule.

All this information adds a real perspective to how these sessions were formulated and acts a perfect introduction to what’s ahead on the eight CDs and Blu-ray disc.

The photos included in the booklet are also superb -many of them sourced from their BBC Top of the Pops appreances and hats off to the caption writer for dating them with such accuracy. There’s also a full log of The Faces BBC appearances at the Beeb from 1970 to 1974 with input from John Gray and Neal Webb of the Smiler magazine – it’s good to see them involved they were a great help to me when I wrote a feature on Rod’s Never a Dull Moment album for Record Collector back in 2014.

The whole package reeks of class – a lot of thought has gone into the presentation .

So to the contents and this is one big long drink of a set – so here we go…

Faces At The BBC: Complete BBC Concert & Session Recordings 1970-1973

CD 1:

John Peel’s Sunday Concert (Broadcast July 5, 1970)

“You’re My Girl (I Don’t Want To Discuss It)” */“Wicked Messenger” */“Devotion” */“It’s All Over Now” */“I Feel So Good” *

Typically ramshackle rough and ready performance with material from the Fiirst Step album. It’s very quint to hear John Peel ‘s between song comments.

John Peel’s Sunday Concert (Broadcast November 29, 1970)

“Country Comfort”/“You’re My Girl (I Don’t Want To Discuss It)”/“Too Much Woman (For A Henpecked Man) / Street Fighting Man”/“Maybe I’m Amazed”/“Around The Plynth / Country Honk / Gasoline Alley”

* Previously unreleased

A more mature performance including a cover of Elton John’s Country Comfort, a romp through the Stones Street Fighting Man , plus Gasoline Alley from Rod’s album of the same name. The stand out is a scintillating cover of McCartney’s Maybe I’m Amazed.

CD 2:

John Peel’s Sunday Concert (Broadcast May 23, 1971)

“You’re My Girl (I Don’t Want To Discuss It)” */“Cut Across Shorty”/“Love In Vain”/“Bad ’n’ Ruin” */

“It’s All Over Now” */“Had Me A Real Good Time” */“(I Know) I’m Losing You” */“I Feel So Good” *

* previously unreleased

Another assured performance – the live favourite (I Know) I’m Losing You is a stomer.

CD 3:

Sounds For Saturday (Broadcast April 1, 1972)

“Three Button Hand Me Down” */“Maybe I’m Amazed”/“Too Much Woman (For A Henpecked Man) / Street Fighting Man” */“Miss Judy’s Farm”/“Love In Vain” */“Stay With Me”/“(I Know) I’m Losing You”

* previously unreleased

As recorded for the BBC TV special – I watched this at the time. Absolutely exceptional performance in every way – The Faces right on top of their game..

CD 4:

John Peel’s Sunday Concert (Broadcast February 26, 1972)

Intro / “You’re My Girl (I Don’t Want To Discuss It)” */“Three Button Hand Me Down” */“Miss Judy’s Farm” */“Memphis, Tennessee” */“Give Me The Moonlight” */“Too Bad” *“Last Orders Please” *

“Devotion” */“That’s All You Need / Country Honk / Gasoline Alley” */“(I Know) I’m Losing You” *

“Stay With Me” */“Had Me A Real Good Time” /“Underneath The Arches” */“Every Picture Tells A Story” *

* previously unreleased

The introduction of numbers from the recently released Nods as Good as a Wink album sees the band on a real high, There’s a brilliant Every Picture Tells a Story too from Rod’s album..

CD 5:

In Concert (Recorded February 8, 1973) not originally broadcast

“Silicone Grown” */“Cindy Incidentally” */“Angel” */“Memphis, Tennessee” */“True Blue” *

“I’d Rather Go Blind” */“You’re My Girl (I Don’t Want To Discuss It)” */“Twistin’ The Night Away” *

“It’s All Over Now” */“Miss Judy’s Farm” */“Maybe I’m Amazed” */“Three Button Hand Me Down” *

“(I Know) I’m Losing You” *

* previously unreleased

Two songs from the just released Ooh La La album. This session was never aired due to the BBC’s concerns over the band’s on-stage banter with the rowdy audience!

CD 6:

In Concert (Broadcast April 21, 1973)

“Silicone Grown” */“Cindy Incidentally” */“Memphis, Tennessee” */“If I’m On The Late Side” *

“My Fault” */“The Stealer”/“Borstal Boys”/“Angel”/“Stay With Me”/“True Blue”

“Twistin’ The Night Away” */“Miss Judy’s Farm”/“Jealous Guy”/“Too Bad”

* previously unreleased

Four more from the Ooh La La album – great set list and performance.

CD 7:

Top Gear (Broadcast March 28, 1970)

“Wicked Messenger” */“Devotion”/“Shake, Shudder, Shiver”/“Pineapple And The Monkey” *

Dave Lee Travis (Broadcast March 15, 1970)

“Three Button Hand Me Down” */“Flying”/“Wicked Messenger” *

Top Gear (Broadcast September 19, 1970)

“Had Me A Real Good Time” */“Around The Plyth / Gasoline Alley”/“Country Comfort” *

Top Gear: John Peel’s Christmas Carol Concert (Broadcast December 26, 1970)

“Away In A Manger” – Rod Stewart */“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / Good King Wenceslas / Silent Night / O Come All Ye Faithful” – Faces & Choir

* previously unreleased

This is a real coup -I remember reading about this session at the time. Marc and June Bolan are in the choir.

CD 8:

Sounds Of The Seventies (Broadcast May 3, 1971)

“Had Me A Real Good Time” */“Love In Vain” */“Oh Lord I’m Browned Off” */“Maybe I’m Amazed” *

Top Gear (Broadcast October 6, 1971)

“Stay With Me”/“Miss Judy’s Farm”/“Maggie May”

* previously unreleased

Another line up of vintage studio sessions.

Blu-ray:

Sounds For Saturday (Broadcast April 1, 1972)

“Three Button Hand Me Down” */“Maybe I’m Amazed”*/“Too Much Woman (For A Henpecked Man / Street Fighting Man” */“Miss Judy’s Farm”*/“Love In Vain” */“Stay With Me”*/“(I Know) I’m Losing You”*

* previously unreleased

Overall this is a truly stunning collection with many a highlight. It’s a real lasting testament to just how good The Faces were.

There’s a fair bit of repetition amongst the tracks but that is not a hindrance as every performance be it live or in the studio ,differs in the way it’s presented.

The Faces at The BBC is a fairly hefty outlay at £100 plus and there are not too many acts I’d consider investing so much on but in my view it’s worth every penny.

This is one of those box set collections that will have constant play ahead and not just be filed away. Its right up there with The Who’s Who’s Next set from last year and is definitely one of the best releases of the year.

Highly recommended and a cert for Christmas lists…

Faces Reissue producer Rob Caiger is now set to begin a reissue series of The Faces studio albums – and you can count me right in in for those…

Dave Lewis – September 19 2024

Off The Records by Graham Sharpe (Oldcastle books)

Just received the new Graham Sharpe book On the Records – Notes From The Vinyl Revival.

This is the follow up to his excellent 2019 book Vinyl Countdown.

I am very much looking forward to wading through Graham’s latest observations on the art of record collecting and all its idiosyncratic quirks.

Graham has also enlisted various contributors to offer their thoughts and I am honoured to be represented by a piece on my record collecting passion.

Graham’s opening dedication regarding the use of the word ‘VINYLS’ I can relate to. I am not a fan of that expression – we are dealing with records here and Graham is a very talented author who brings a highly entertaining slant on what makes us record collecting types tick.

It’s a brilliant book and recommended reading for anyone who enjoys flicking through record racks (and looking in charity shops for cheap CDs!) and that thrill of the chase for the music we love…

It’s published by Oldcastle Books and available now at this link:

https://www.oldcastlebooks.co.uk/bookpage.php…

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My thoughts on…

 

Coda – A Tribute To Led Zeppelin, Bedford Esquires – September 28 2024

When Coda come to town a splendid time is guaranteed for all and last night was no exception.

This tribute to Led Zeppelin have long since established themselves as a must- see act and at the always excellent Bedford Esquires last night they went down an absolute storm

All the ingredients that make them so special were in place – brilliant musicianship, warm and friendly between song patter, two set lists packed with solid gold Led Zep bangers.

Yes, they look the part but they never take themselves overly serious mainly thanks to lead singer Pete Byrne’s’ engaging Irish wit. He brings the whole crowd with him with key moments of audience participation and boy can he sing, hitting those Plant high notes with ease.

Guitarist James York -Starkey has the Page riffs well and truly nailed and Rob Deery adds some deft and skillful playing on bass and keyboards.

The recent addition of Neil Saunders on drums works a treat. He had big shoes to fill when the great Simon Wicker left the band late last year and he has done so brilliantly.

It says everything about their undoubted understanding of the Led Zep legacy that tonight’s set is vastly different from the last time they came to Bedford 18 months ago. Collectively, they have the ability to interpret the Zep catalogue at will – and they interpret it so well.

They opened with the double thrust of The Song Remains The Same and Celebration Day -just as the real thing did at Knebworth 45 years back. (Zep connoisseurs note: drummer Neil applied that percussive flurry John Bonham achieved on the 1977 Listen to This Eddie bootleg)

From there, they could do no wrong. A strident Good Times Bad Times, a beautiful Ramble On, a colossal Since I’ve Been Loving You and a brooding No Quarter set the benchmark. Trampled Underfoot was just magnificent (Zep connoisseurs note: performed in the Earls Court ’75 arrangement with closing Gallows Pole lyrics), the drum fest that is Moby Dick and a joyous Rock and Roll closed the first set.

They were back a trio of big hitters namely Immigrant Song, Black Dog and Over The Hills And Far Away. Kashmir nigh on took the roof off – an emotional delivery that prompted thoughts of our much missed dear friend Tom Locke who saw Zep on many occasions with me, Heartbreaker developed into a tour de force for guitarist James, Pete brought out the harmonica for a thundering Nobody’s Fault But Mine and then there was Achilles Last Stand – simply immense.

A communal Stairway To Heaven and an extended Whole Lotta Love ( Zep connoisseurs note: performed in The Song Remains The Same film version with Let That Boy Boogie insert) rounded off another night during which Coda more than did justice to the Zep legacy.

There are many reasons why some 56 years on from their formation, Led Zeppelin still mean so much to so many.

One of those reasons is the ability of tribute bands such as Coda to recreate the magic of the Zep catalogue live on stage. Last night at Bedford Esquires they did that more effectively than any tribute band I’ve seen.

In short, Coda were brilliant. Long may they keep spreading a whole lotta love…

Dave Lewis – September 29 2024.

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DL Diary Blog Update:

Thursday September 26:

Janet and I were very pleased to have a visit here last night from the esteemed Mr Gary Davies – Gary’s job brings him to Bedford every once in a while and he always makes the effort to call in…

Long-time friend, TBL supporter and a man of immense Zep knowledge, I’ve been in touch with Gary since the late 1970s.

Gary and I battled the rain and went to the nearby Swan Hotel where over dinner we had a fantastic time remembering John Bonham – poignantly 44 years gone to the day of his passing , recalling various Zep related gigs, discussing the latest Zep film finds (Gary is an expert in this area) plus Robert Plant 1981 Honeydrippers gigs and more – and our memories of the much missed Andy Adams and Howard Mylett …

It’s always a pleasure to be in Gary’s company – and it was also a pleasure to hand over a copy of the Portraits Of Robert Plant Through The Eighties book which he thought was excellent…

Thanks for a great night mate!

Wednesday October 2:

Bob Dylan And The Band – The 1974 Live Recordings – 27 CD Box Set:

To paraphrase the great man himself – ‘’How many roads must a man walk down before he’s waded through the new 27 CD set Bob Dylan And The Band The 1974 Live Recordings?’’

Quite a few but hey I’m off and running – Disc 1 all loaded up and to kick off with its highlights from the January 3, 1974. Chicago Stadium, Chicago, IL show – shall we roll it Bob?

Track listing as follows..

Hero Blues

Lay, Lady, Lay

Tough Mama

It Ain’t Me, Babe

Leopard-Skin Pill-Box Hat

All Along the Watchtower

Song to Woody

The Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll

Nobody ‘Cept You

It’s Alright, Ma (I’m Only Bleeding)

Forever Young

Something There Is About You

Like a Rolling Stone

Most Likely You Go You Way (and I’ll Go Mine)

Friday October 4:

Recent DL Charity Shop CD find…

Another gem I searched out yesterday – Jack Bruce Cities Of The Heart.

This is a live recording from Cologne of Jack Bruce and Friends recorded in November 1993.

Something of a career overview with plenty of Cream input performed by an all star line up that includes Ginger Baker, Gary Moore, Maggie Reilly, Clem Clemson and Dick Heckstall-Smith.

Double CD in slip case, fold out lyric sheet and booklet – £4.99? I’ll take it!

Friday October 4:

 

Out today and just arrived…

Electric Lady Studios -A Jimi Hendrix Vison 3 CD box set and 1 Blu- ray. Includes 40 previously unreleased studio recordings from the 1970 era – a Hendrix period I’ve always been fascinated by since I got the Cry Of Love album way back.

I am very much looking forward to wading through this beauty…

Saturday October 5:

DL Charity Shop seven inch single find…

I was well pleased to come across this one today in the fair city of St. Albans…

Scottish band The Poets 1964 single Now We’re Thru on the Decca label produced by the Rolling Stones manager/producer Andrew Loog Oldham.

This was their only UK hit reaching number 31.

The single came with the original Decca sleeve and was inside a very quaint original 7 inch record bag. It states ‘’I’m now a record holder thanks to Words And Music.’’

This shop was situated in Welland Park 4, Lladaff Rd, Canton ,Merthyr Rd, Whitchurch in the North Shropshire area.

Unsurprisingly, I am a collector of record bags both 7 inch and LP so this was a very nice find all round.

50p? I’ll take it!

My thoughts on The Qureboys at Bedford Esquires – November 13 2024…

 

To the always excellent Esquires venue in Bedford for a special night with The Quireboys.

This was a special fundraising gig for the much loved musician Luke Bossendorfer. Luke was in a number of Bedford bands way back and had a stint in The Quireboys himself when they reformed in the early 2000’s.

Luke moved to Los Angeles and was back at Esquires earlier in the year with his band The Long Shadows. It was a great night but very sadly, more recently Luke has suffered serious health issues after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. He is in need of much medical help and this gig has been arranged to help with that.

Support act Willie Downing went down very well – his quirky 70s sounding self penned songs carried a Billy Joel and Jeff Lynne influence. Willie was back on stage to join the main act later. He is also booked for another appearance with his full band next February.

Before The Quireboys came on stage Luke’s mum and dad got up to say a few words. It was heart rendering to here of Luke’s plight and how brave and positive they are being in dealing with it all. I had a big lump in my throat as they left the stage and I certainly wasn’t the only one.

Opening with Jeeze Louise from their new album Wardour Street, the band were simply on fire. This new revamped line-up includes Thunder’s Luke Morley on guitar and he was outstanding throughout. Animated bassist Nigel Mogg was the perfect foil for Spike and Harry James on drums kept it loud and powerful. As mentioned Willie Downing played keyboards.

As for Spike, he was as irrepressible as ever. His stage manner is highly derivative of Jagger and Rod (no bad thing in itself) but he brings his own charm to the proceedings, That cheeky grin, the between song humour and the mic kicking antics make him a magnetic and engaging front man.

There were lovely words about Luke, a nod to Scottish rocker Frankie Miller before the compelling Raining Whiskey from the new album and various references to ex member, the late Guy Bailey.

They mixed old favourites such as Sweet Mary Anne, Hey You, and 7 O Clock with new songs You and I, Myrtle Beach and Like it or Not. Highlight of the night for me was an impassioned delivery of King of New York.

They left the crowd breathless with a four song encore topped by an anthemic I Don’t Love You Anymore.

In reality nothing could be further from the truth. The Esquires crowd and me included, loved every minute of this special appearance.

Now here’s a thing. I never got to see The Faces play live back in their heyday but if I had, they would have had to be on top of their game to be as impressive as The Quireboys were last night.

Yes, they were that good… and Luke they did you proud…

Dave Lewis – November 13 2024

 

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My thoughts on…
Bob Dylan at the Royal Albert Hall – November 13 2024

The first Bob Dylan album I bought with hard earned cash was Self Portrait. The 1970 covers based double album mish mash that confused his audience and critics alike.It prompted the writer Greil Marcus to open his review of the album in Rolling Stone magazine with the immortal line ‘’What’s this shit?’’

Maybe I was easily pleased aged 16 but I actually loved it so you could say I am used to Bob Dylan’s artistic quirks. I might add the second Bob Dylan I purchased not long after, was the legendary bootleg Live at the Royal Albert Hall 1966 so that put my particular credibility way back up.

The fact is the career of Bob Dylan has been fascinating me for the past 55 years and it continues to do so.

In recent years, my appreciation of Bob Dylan’s studio work has centered on the superb Bootleg Series of retrospective releases – including the magnificent Blood On The Tracks set.
I loved his 2020 album Rough And Rowdy Ways – a record of reflection for the confused times of the pandemic.

As for live shows, I am proud to say I saw Bob at Blackbushe in 1978 and a few times after that. However, I have not seen him play live since the Tom Petty tour in 1987.

In recent years I’ve been trying to rectify that and I did try to get tickets for the Palladium shows a couple of years back but missed out. When this current tour was announced I very much fancied the Royal Albert Hall and was lucky to pick up a ticket for the Wednesday night show when 400 hundred odd tickets were released after the initial sell out.

So to the always magnificent Royal Albert Hall with my good friend Lee -our third night out in a row this week.
After last night’s blast of rock,n’roll with The Quireboys, it was time for some rough and rowdy ways with Bob Dylan.

The nearby Queens Arms pub was packed with many a Bobcat to be seen. It was great to meet TBL reader James Corby over from Malta for, as he put it ‘The pilgrimage’. Now that is a good word to describe a Bob Dylan concert. It really is a pilgrimage with fans coming in to London from far and wide. We sat next to a chap who had travelled from Reykjavik and had been the previous night and was now ready for another evening with Mr Zimmerman.

A word about the policy to lock all mobile phones in special pouches as to make them unusable during the show. It actually worked quite well and it was quite refreshing to see a mobile free zone.

Having got tickets late we took what we could and this meant being in as they call it Choir East, with limited leg room. This is a behind the stage view looking out to the crowd but it was actually a great vantage point overlooking the stage with good visibility of the band and set up. We incurred none of the low lighting issues I’ve seen on a few posts.

So at 8pm the band sauntered on as did the 83 year old Bob Dylan -just slightly waveringly. Smart jacket, black trousers with a stripe no hat revealing a good head of hair. There was an air of the veteran troubadour about him and this is where it got very exciting. The band line up included Doug Lancio – acoustic guitar, electric guitar,Tony Garnier – bass guitar and Jim Keltner – drums. The latter a veteran of many sessions including George Harrison’s Living In The Material World album.

I realised I was now firmly in the presence of the legend. The man who sang in this very hall back in 1966, The man who said ‘’Great to be here sure is’’ at the Isle of Wight in 1969, the man who George Harrison brought on stage at the Concert for Bangla Desh with the words ‘’Like to bring on a friend of us all Mr Bob Dylan’.’ The man who came on with a top hat at Blackbushe, The man responsible for a vast catalogue of songs unsurpassed in the history of popular music.

Ah yes the songs…to paraphrase the great Eric Morcambe, with Bob it’s sometimes a case that he plays ’’All the right notes but not necessarily in the right order.’’

Dylan has long since had a reputation for changing the arrangements of his songs so I knew what to expect and I would say the majority of fans in the packed hall did too. So when the band kicked off with a rambling All Along The Watchtower it was no surprise that it may have taken a fair few of the assembled a minute or two to recognise it.

I can say it did sound very good with the slick band providing the platform for Bob to work his lyrics around. At this point we should mention the voice. Now a deep toned burr not dissimilar to that of Tom Waits. Sometimes semi spoken. As for his stage persona, he strummed a guitar a little initially when sat at the piano but mainly he took to standing at the piano as he sung, sometimes drifting off to near the drums. He also took to leaning on the piano to sing looking at what could have been a lyric book to prompt him. There was little interaction with the crowd as is his way.

Next up It A’int Me,Babe -a magnificent rendition with an impassioned vocal performance, perhaps his best of the night. I Contain Multitudes and False Prophet from the Rough And Rowdy Ways album worked well, the latter the type of timeless R and B chug and groove that Bob is a master of conjuring up.

When I Paint My Masterpiece saw the first emergence of the harmonica which was rapturously received.

Then there was something of a dip. Four in a row from Rough And Rowdy, namely Black Rider, My Own Version Of You,To Be Alone With You and Crossing The Rubicon. All melancholy crooned affairs that offered little variety. Looking out in to the crowd, I sensed they were getting a little restless.

What we need was a Bob banger and it arrived in the guise of Desolation Row. I say guise as this was vastly different from the flowing version on Highway 61 Revisited. Instead, it was a rather meandering effort.

It was back to Rough And Rowdy Ways for Key West (Philosophers Pirate) a warm pleasure with the singer off in search of love and inspiration on’ ’That pirate radio station coming out of Luxemburg’’

Watching The River Flow followed and was somewhat unrecognizable. I was hoping the ghost of the late great Leon Russell, might float down to bring some semblance of order to the 1971 hit single he produced. It lacked the swagger and verve of the original.

It’s All Over Now Baby Blue was taken at a slow place and was well received. Another three songs off Rowdy Ways took us on to the home straight.

I’ve Made Up My Mind To Give Myself To You was another highlight. The tender nature of his vocal was achingly beautiful, so fragile and delicate – it moved me greatly and no doubt many others in attendance.
Mother Of Muses another semi crooned vocal led to the R and B stomp of Goodbye Jimmy Reed – up tempo and bluesy with a roller-coaster Rainy Day Women strut about it.

Finally a sweet and stately Every Grain Of Sand and he was gone…

Summary: Overall there was much to enjoy and be moved by. At times ,the idiosyncratic nature the arrangements became a challenge but that’s the way it is with Bob Dylan. He does things his way. It was never going to be a hit laden affair but what this night at the Royal Albert Hall turned out to be was an intimate encounter with one of the truly legendary performers of our times.

To paraphrase one of his own, ’’He’s got everything he wants, he’s an enigma and he don’t look back’’.

Sharing the air with the enigma that is Bob Dylan last night at the Royal Albert Hall was an absolute privilege…

Dave Lewis – November 14 2024

Saturday November 9:

Saturday treat at the Slide Record Shop…

Every record tells a story…

In a recent Mojo issue, their monthly Buried Treasure review in which the spotlight shines on an undiscovered or lost album, featured Juliet Lawson’s album Boo. Mojo described it as a” rediscovered jewel. An abstract painting in folk-rock clothing.”

On further investigation I knew this album was going to be right up my street.

Issued in 1973 Boo was the confident debut of a young British artist and featured twelve of Juliet Lawson’s own compositions. In the same wave of early 1970s English singer-songwriters such as Nick Drake, Vashti Bunyan, Christine McVie and despite being described at the time as ‘Britain’s answer to Joni Mitchell, Boo was to prove her only major label release with limited commercial success.

Over the next 50 years the album’s reputation has slowly grown and is today an expensive and collectable item.

I was therefore well pleased to see that the much respected Soul Jazz label had recently reissued the album under the title Boo – The Early Recordings 1971 -1973. It was on my wants list to buy.

I was even more pleased when going through the new release racks in the Slide Record shop this morning to find a copy of this Juliet Lawson reissue.

The first pressing of the vinyl edition of the album also comes with a bonus 7” single featuring two early demo tracks, produced by ex-Yardbirds founder Paul Samwell-Smith, who also produced Carly Simon and Cat Stevens.

Upon purchasing the album, imagine my surprise when Warren told me Juliet had been in the shop to inform them of this release and actually lives in Bedford. Indeed her website reveals that as well as being a singer songwriter, Juliet is a painter and stages art exhibitions.

Juliet is also lined up for a gig in Bedford later this month. More details of the album and Juliet’s activities at this link…

https://www.julietlawson.com/music

Thanks as ever to Warren and Nerys at Slide Record Shop.

Tuesday November 12:

To Rough Trade East record shop last night for the launch of Dec Hickey’s remastered edition of his book ‘From Heaven to Heaven: New Order Live – The Early Years (1981-1984) at Close Quarters’, published via Damaged Goods Books.

This is the third edition of the book which first appeared in 2010.

The launch took the format of an In Conversation panel discussing their New Order experiences in their early days followed by Dec’s book signing session.

The panel line up consisted of Dec plus Jon Wozencroft from the Touch record label and a long time Joy Division/New Order chronicler, Guardian music critic and author Dave Simpson and Jon Marsh former lead singer of The Beloved ( they had top ten hit sin the 1990with Sweet Harmony) and respected club DJ and another big New Order follower from the early days.

It was great to see many veteran Bedford New Order fans from the 1980s who witnessed New Order along with Dec as he describes it on the book’s back cover ‘’With the greatest buzz in our hearts’’

The new edition of the book is a fabulous package expertly designed by Mick Lowe who I worked with on many a TBL magazine and book. It includes a seven inch single containing an interview Dec conducted with New Order’s Bernard Sumner in 1983.

The book itself reveals in forensic detail, how Dec followed New Order in their formative years as he travelled the length and breadth of the UK never missing a gig from 1981 to 1984.

The gig to gig diary format works brilliantly – the book is a unique snapshot of the rise of the post punk electronic music movement that New Order pioneered.

Hats off to Dec and Ian at Damaged Goods for producing this new edition and for a great launch night at Rough Trade East…

The book can be ordered at this link:

https://shop.damagedgoods.co.uk/

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My thoughts on The Qureboys at Bedford Esquires – November 13 2024…

 

To the always excellent Esquires venue in Bedford for a special night with The Quireboys.

This was a special fundraising gig for the much loved musician Luke Bossendorfer. Luke was in a number of Bedford bands way back and had a stint in The Quireboys himself when they reformed in the early 2000’s.

Luke moved to Los Angeles and was back at Esquires earlier in the year with his band The Long Shadows. It was a great night but very sadly, more recently Luke has suffered serious health issues after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. He is in need of much medical help and this gig has been arranged to help with that.

Support act Willie Downing went down very well – his quirky 70s sounding self penned songs carried a Billy Joel and Jeff Lynne influence. Willie was back on stage to join the main act later. He is also booked for another appearance with his full band next February.

Before The Quireboys came on stage Luke’s mum and dad got up to say a few words. It was heart rendering to here of Luke’s plight and how brave and positive they are being in dealing with it all. I had a big lump in my throat as they left the stage and I certainly wasn’t the only one.

Opening with Jeeze Louise from their new album Wardour Street, the band were simply on fire. This new revamped line-up includes Thunder’s Luke Morley on guitar and he was outstanding throughout. Animated bassist Nigel Mogg was the perfect foil for Spike and Harry James on drums kept it loud and powerful. As mentioned Willie Downing played keyboards.

As for Spike, he was as irrepressible as ever. His stage manner is highly derivative of Jagger and Rod (no bad thing in itself) but he brings his own charm to the proceedings, That cheeky grin, the between song humour and the mic kicking antics make him a magnetic and engaging front man.

There were lovely words about Luke, a nod to Scottish rocker Frankie Miller before the compelling Raining Whiskey from the new album and various references to ex member, the late Guy Bailey.

They mixed old favourites such as Sweet Mary Anne, Hey You, and 7 O Clock with new songs You and I, Myrtle Beach and Like it or Not. Highlight of the night for me was an impassioned delivery of King of New York.

They left the crowd breathless with a four song encore topped by an anthemic I Don’t Love You Anymore.

In reality nothing could be further from the truth. The Esquires crowd and me included, loved every minute of this special appearance.

Now here’s a thing. I never got to see The Faces play live back in their heyday but if I had, they would have had to be on top of their game to be as impressive as The Quireboys were last night.

Yes, they were that good… and Luke they did you proud…

Dave Lewis – November 13 2024

 

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My thoughts on…
Bob Dylan at the Royal Albert Hall – November 13 2024

The first Bob Dylan album I bought with hard earned cash was Self Portrait. The 1970 covers based double album mish mash that confused his audience and critics alike.It prompted the writer Greil Marcus to open his review of the album in Rolling Stone magazine with the immortal line ‘’What’s this shit?’’

Maybe I was easily pleased aged 16 but I actually loved it so you could say I am used to Bob Dylan’s artistic quirks. I might add the second Bob Dylan I purchased not long after, was the legendary bootleg Live at the Royal Albert Hall 1966 so that put my particular credibility way back up.

The fact is the career of Bob Dylan has been fascinating me for the past 55 years and it continues to do so.

In recent years, my appreciation of Bob Dylan’s studio work has centered on the superb Bootleg Series of retrospective releases – including the magnificent Blood On The Tracks set.
I loved his 2020 album Rough And Rowdy Ways – a record of reflection for the confused times of the pandemic.

As for live shows, I am proud to say I saw Bob at Blackbushe in 1978 and a few times after that. However, I have not seen him play live since the Tom Petty tour in 1987.

In recent years I’ve been trying to rectify that and I did try to get tickets for the Palladium shows a couple of years back but missed out. When this current tour was announced I very much fancied the Royal Albert Hall and was lucky to pick up a ticket for the Wednesday night show when 400 hundred odd tickets were released after the initial sell out.

So to the always magnificent Royal Albert Hall with my good friend Lee -our third night out in a row this week.
After last night’s blast of rock,n’roll with The Quireboys, it was time for some rough and rowdy ways with Bob Dylan.

The nearby Queens Arms pub was packed with many a Bobcat to be seen. It was great to meet TBL reader James Corby over from Malta for, as he put it ‘The pilgrimage’. Now that is a good word to describe a Bob Dylan concert. It really is a pilgrimage with fans coming in to London from far and wide. We sat next to a chap who had travelled from Reykjavik and had been the previous night and was now ready for another evening with Mr Zimmerman.

A word about the policy to lock all mobile phones in special pouches as to make them unusable during the show. It actually worked quite well and it was quite refreshing to see a mobile free zone.

Having got tickets late we took what we could and this meant being in as they call it Choir East, with limited leg room. This is a behind the stage view looking out to the crowd but it was actually a great vantage point overlooking the stage with good visibility of the band and set up. We incurred none of the low lighting issues I’ve seen on a few posts.

So at 8pm the band sauntered on as did the 83 year old Bob Dylan -just slightly waveringly. Smart jacket, black trousers with a stripe no hat revealing a good head of hair. There was an air of the veteran troubadour about him and this is where it got very exciting. The band line up included Doug Lancio – acoustic guitar, electric guitar,Tony Garnier – bass guitar and Jim Keltner – drums. The latter a veteran of many sessions including George Harrison’s Living In The Material World album.

I realised I was now firmly in the presence of the legend. The man who sang in this very hall back in 1966, The man who said ‘’Great to be here sure is’’ at the Isle of Wight in 1969, the man who George Harrison brought on stage at the Concert for Bangla Desh with the words ‘’Like to bring on a friend of us all Mr Bob Dylan’.’ The man who came on with a top hat at Blackbushe, The man responsible for a vast catalogue of songs unsurpassed in the history of popular music.

Ah yes the songs…to paraphrase the great Eric Morcambe, with Bob it’s sometimes a case that he plays ’’All the right notes but not necessarily in the right order.’’

Dylan has long since had a reputation for changing the arrangements of his songs so I knew what to expect and I would say the majority of fans in the packed hall did too. So when the band kicked off with a rambling All Along The Watchtower it was no surprise that it may have taken a fair few of the assembled a minute or two to recognise it.

I can say it did sound very good with the slick band providing the platform for Bob to work his lyrics around. At this point we should mention the voice. Now a deep toned burr not dissimilar to that of Tom Waits. Sometimes semi spoken. As for his stage persona, he strummed a guitar a little initially when sat at the piano but mainly he took to standing at the piano as he sung, sometimes drifting off to near the drums. He also took to leaning on the piano to sing looking at what could have been a lyric book to prompt him. There was little interaction with the crowd as is his way.

Next up It A’int Me,Babe -a magnificent rendition with an impassioned vocal performance, perhaps his best of the night. I Contain Multitudes and False Prophet from the Rough And Rowdy Ways album worked well, the latter the type of timeless R and B chug and groove that Bob is a master of conjuring up.

When I Paint My Masterpiece saw the first emergence of the harmonica which was rapturously received.

Then there was something of a dip. Four in a row from Rough And Rowdy, namely Black Rider, My Own Version Of You,To Be Alone With You and Crossing The Rubicon. All melancholy crooned affairs that offered little variety. Looking out in to the crowd, I sensed they were getting a little restless.

What we need was a Bob banger and it arrived in the guise of Desolation Row. I say guise as this was vastly different from the flowing version on Highway 61 Revisited. Instead, it was a rather meandering effort.

It was back to Rough And Rowdy Ways for Key West (Philosophers Pirate) a warm pleasure with the singer off in search of love and inspiration on’ ’That pirate radio station coming out of Luxemburg’’

Watching The River Flow followed and was somewhat unrecognizable. I was hoping the ghost of the late great Leon Russell, might float down to bring some semblance of order to the 1971 hit single he produced. It lacked the swagger and verve of the original.

It’s All Over Now Baby Blue was taken at a slow place and was well received. Another three songs off Rowdy Ways took us on to the home straight.

I’ve Made Up My Mind To Give Myself To You was another highlight. The tender nature of his vocal was achingly beautiful, so fragile and delicate – it moved me greatly and no doubt many others in attendance.
Mother Of Muses another semi crooned vocal led to the R and B stomp of Goodbye Jimmy Reed – up tempo and bluesy with a roller-coaster Rainy Day Women strut about it.

Finally a sweet and stately Every Grain Of Sand and he was gone…

Summary: Overall there was much to enjoy and be moved by. At times ,the idiosyncratic nature the arrangements became a challenge but that’s the way it is with Bob Dylan. He does things his way. It was never going to be a hit laden affair but what this night at the Royal Albert Hall turned out to be was an intimate encounter with one of the truly legendary performers of our times.

To paraphrase one of his own, ’’He’s got everything he wants, he’s an enigma and he don’t look back’’.

Sharing the air with the enigma that is Bob Dylan last night at the Royal Albert Hall was an absolute privilege…

Dave Lewis – November 14 2024