Auction
The condition and authenticity of all the records in our auction section are always carefully and closely scrutinised. If you enjoyed our auctions, then you may also enjoy checking out our latest soul additions.
Melodians
Sweet Sensation / It's My Delight
Trojan : TR 695 (45s)
1969 Skinhead classic, a MOD favourite, a universal British nostalgic trip, so hard to acquire with clean labels, 4 prong centre intact, and full gloss unblemished vinyl.
Melodians deliver beautifully seamless harmonisation, gliding over an insistent Reggae beat; fluid rhythms give up a laid-back invitation to dance. The Melodians formed in 1963 have all the experience to make this song sound so easy. Have gliding through SKA, Rock Steady eras into Reggae. Greenwich Town scholars of the Kingston scene. Tony Brevett, Brent Dowe and Trevor McNaughton aided by Renford Cogle. Composed, produced & arranged by the prolific Leslie Kong.
"Sweet Sensation " is a lasting testament to the talented writer / producer Leslie Kong who tragically died of a heart attack at the tender aged of 38, less than two years after he made this wonderful double helping of classic style 1969 Reggae.
Condition Report
As good as it gets, unblemished full gloss vinyl. Clean label NO writing, tiny sticker removal blemish sand a soft residue shadow, see image. Flipsaide label is perfect! labels, 4 prong centre intact. Vinyl has full gloss and totally unblemished as you can hear, both sides plays flawless. The elusive Trojan promo sleeve has a clean front, reverse has light wear and tiny red stain. <br /> VINYL is immaculate
VINYL is immaculate
Jackie Wilson
It Only Happens When I Look At You / Just As Soon As The Feelings Over
Brunswick : BR 43 DJ MANSHIP MINT (45s)
15th. July 1977 British promo in previously unplayed condition.
What is it exactly about a Jackie Wilson recording that makes you never grow tired of hearing it? - no matter what he sings.
But when he's performing one of his greatest of offerings to the Northern Soul scene which amazingly was never issued in the USA you have just gotta sit up and take notice..
It's been a hugely popular tune for many, many years now and I still can't wait to strip off it's sleeve and drop it on the turntable. But not this copy though, as it is MINT unplayed archive copy. Carl Davis and Sonny Sanders elevate and already fabulous song; Crafted in Britain the gifted pairing of Ken Gold & Mickey Dene a prolific writing team with a penchant for the USA Soul sound.
If you've been living in Siberia the last 20 years take a listen and prepare to be warmed right through. Or if your every Saturday is spent at a Northern Soul event, take another listen to Jackie in full flow to remind yourself why you're addicted to the Northern Soul Sound..
A record you can never tire of hearing - in it's most desirable form - in the finest possible condition.
Condition Report
MINT previously unplayed
Generation
Hold On / The Lonely Sea
Mockingbird : MR 10108 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
Mint Unplayed - Perfect Vinyl
Perfect Labels
A timeless Richard Searling Northern Soul Wigan Casino anthem in unbeatable condition.
It's popularity triggering a UK Grapevine reissue in 1979
Condition Report
Manship's Mints for Christmas - Mint Unplayed - Perfect Vinyl - Perfect Labels
Darrow Fletcher
1966 promo artist photo attached to Groovy Records introduction letter / Gotta Draw The Line
Groovy: 3007 DJ + letter + photo (45s)
Most likely a world one-off (very improbable any other copies of this complete 1966 promo package exist)
Detroiter Darrow born of Inkster, went on to become a Prince of Northern Soul crowned by his emotional live appearance at Cleethorpes Weekender the summer 2006. His natural on stage persona and gift for portraying convincing despair, had the crowd in emotional rapture with grown men unashamedly shedding tears.
To the Northern Soul scene worldwide, Darrow Fletcher is an undisputed icon, a child prodigy with all the attributes to become a world Soul star, but those required breaks went against him, even when he cut an album for Ray Charles's Crossover label in Los Angeles to release never came to fruition, until standard-bearers for "lost-Soul" Ace/Kent of London released his material on a CD.
Before you today is a fundamental part of Northern Soul history, the beginnings of a quintessential Soul Man depicted with a unique promo mailing from his record label in 1966.
Just begging to be is a classy frame, hanging in a man-cave or lady record room of exquisite taste..
You'll never see another - so bid like you long to live with it!
Condition Report
The Sam Goldner Groovy Records introduction letter, with attached artist promo photo are in the same condition they were mailed out in 1966. Te promo 45 has two clean labels, vinyl reveals just a few light hairlines.
Unknown Artist (Ed Silvers)
I Don't Need No Doctor / blank:
Flomar Music : 10" acetate (10")
A really smooth version of the Nick Ashford classic, relentless piano pulses pump out Northern Soul dance perfection. Decorated by an echo-chamber gathering of soulful girls; shrill but silky, the perfect condiment for what is a cutting edge vocal.
There is no artist credit on the label, but this soul crooner is beyond good, a soft snarl starts to develop within the delivery, as he gets immersed in the lyrics.. those affirming girls creep under your skin..,and top drawer Northern Soul unfolds..
For me , it is the best interpretation I've heard of this this timeless collaboration between Valerie Simpson, Josie Jo Armstead & Nick Ashford guided by the great Ed Silvers in New York. A version just begging for an "A" list DJ attention, to lift it up where the song belongs...wrongfully ignored NS dancer by the upper echelons of the scene, maybe the Nick Ashford (Verve) & Ray Charles (ABC) versions are perhaps a little too mainstream for the driven by rarity jock..
but this take, is EXCLUSIVE! IMHO the best and comes complete with the music-sheet...
do not pass by, this assured dancefloor pleaser ...
Condition Report
Label is clean credit stamped as an Ed Silvers production, playing surface is flawless!
Rudy Mills
John Jones / Place Called Happiness
Big Shot: BI 509 (45s)
A 1968 press offering two strong driving Reggae dance grooves on one disc. Derrrick Harriott ensures both sides move along at a most inviting pace with sing-a-long goodtime lyrics. "John Jones" provokes your vocal participation, narcotic rhythms, irresistible Reggae pulses litter the arrangement backdrop. NO wonder this tune has been a club dancefloor perennial for near 5 decades.
But do not overlook the more than smooth flipside, shimmering with rich vocals harmonizing, through a mix of beating percussions, keyboard synthesizer oscillations and throbbing guitar pulses. Actually for me "Place Called Happiness" is my preference, maybe not such an obvious party tune, but rippling with class throughout.
Condition is impeccable, a very though 45 to find in such attractive condition.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, although the a-side reveals a soft and very forgivable sticker residue shadow. The vinyl shows off full gloss, with only the merest of fine hairlines visible when angled in the light. "John Jones" a strong Ex+ , Place Called Happiness" a spectacular Mint minus
Jennifer Wells
Dining In Chinatown / For Some
Genuine : 166 (45s)
A Belgium Popcorn anthem, that seldom comes to market - certainly our first copy for many years - and how wonderful it was, to be able to immerse myself again, in its addictive far-eastern powers. Flute, Big gong hamerings, The Ginqin or far Eastern Banjo, precise plucking of the Pipa transports you deep inside "Chinatown" to a secluded restaurant, to fall in love. Producer Frank Metis and his orchestra were obviously well versed in the art of the Chinese symphony.
The vocal style and the arrangement are the perfect marriage for conjuring up visions of not only 60's Lower Manhattan's Chinatown but also Belgium Popcorn clubs of the early 70's when this was such as popular tune. That eventually crossed over into Northern Soul, as it thankfully the DJ's spread their boundaries into other styles of dance. Little is know about Jennifer herself, other than her beckoning rich voice so ideally fits the atmosphere.
Listen to top drawer Popcorn/Northern Soul uniqueness and prepare to become absorbed in the recordings enthralling individuality.
A memorable tune and so tough to acquire.
Condition Report
two clean labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl
Unity
Too Young / We Can Make It
Apex : AP 483 (45s)
We lead with the soaring harmony Soulful dancer "Too Young", an impressively tight knit, from this under-the-street lamp gathering, brilliant guided by composer Fred White.
It feels like the group and Fred grew up, listening to Manhattans on the streets of Newark, their seamless vocal-volleyball so reminiscent of the areas premier Soul boys. Falsetto lead rises to bank of zipping strong, soon to switch lead, then the teen falsetto bounces back into the flow. Swirling strings fill the air, but still the major force are those unified vocals... that suddenly fade away to leave you thinking "Oh No" they've gone.. but then they reignite themselves for a much appreciate encore! Wow what a tune.. and a very rare tune that seldom surfaces for sale. After 3 listen I'm in love with it's youthful optimism, glorious production and searing vocals.. A WINNER!!
Flip it over, the group drill down into a glorious Sweet Soul ballad that's surely going to alert all vocal group ballad fans. As again, these Brick City Soul-boys blend themselves into a string and considerate brass landscape. Premium grade Sweet Soul fills your space. Two great sides...
One of the seriously rare vocal-group double-helpings of harmony Soul, that has eluded most collectors, coupled with a killer rare-soul-dance that has given the slip to many dedicated European Soul DJ's, also.
Condition Report
Two clean but lightly age-browned labels, vinyl on the a-side has light surface marks but plays crisp and clean, only an occasional low tick or two. The quieter ballad flipside#, has a few clicks on the intro that get overwhelmed once the singing starts. <br /> Grading EX for the A-side vg+ for the flip
Grading EX for the A-side vg+ for the flip
Sweet
Slow Down / It's Lonely Out There
Fontana : TF 958 (45s)
A beyond RARE 1968 British press in impeccable, near impossible Mint minus condition.
This July 1968 release, was the quiet beginning that would explode just a few years later; after a few band member changes, the Sweet under "Chinn and Chapman" guidance rose to be the United Kingdom's most influential Glam Rock band of them all.
The lineup for this debut single is a little cloudy but with think it was most likely to have been Brian Connolly, Michael Tucker, Steve Priest and Frank Torpey. Produced by the talented Phil Wainman who himself, released his own highly collectable 45 the same year on the same label.
This 45 is a tale of two sides, "Slow Motion" is a somewhat "play safe" Pyschedelic Rock mid-tempo benefitting from a gravel coated lead vocal, but backed up by a low key piano driven backdrop, and some laidback backing harmonies from the other members. Capable but predictable Brit-Rock that all falls nicely in to place with setting light to anything...
The flipside however "It's Lonely Out There" featuring some monster fuzz guitar work by Frank Torpey, is a totally different story. Killer Brit Freakbeat, giving up frantic torrent of rousing 1968 garage. An upbeat stomper, driven by rushing percussion, showered with maverick "Torpey" fuzz-guitar validated by urgent harmony vocals from the rest of the band.
Sadly for the obviously talented Frank Torpey he left the band just two years before The Sweet signed for RCA and the ensuing Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman years transformed them into chart-topping Glam Rock superstars.
Fontana TF 958 is not only an important piece of British Rock history, the the flipside a hidden Freakbeat jewel. A trait that the band carried forward, their RCA releases with the self-=composed flipsides being heralded by many as Heavy Rock masterpieces.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 3 prong centre intact, full gloss vinyl
Three Reasons
Beach Time / Cruel, Cruel, Cruel
J. R. E. Records Co. : 45-223 PS (45s)
Absolutely ridiculously rare 1962 Teen Surf complete with the near impossible picture sleeve - signed by Ernie, Wes & Don.
Three clean-cut guys active around Toledo, Ohio 1962 to 1965, driven by Beach Boy influences. The group leader was Ernie Fodor and co-writer of the songs other two members were WEs Hayes . They recorded two 45's of original songs, most likely in a Detroit studio. T
This is the group's 1st 45 that was also issued on the Wheel City label from Detroit, after the original issue on this JRE label was a big local hit. This 45 was one of very few authentic vocal surf records from the state of Ohio, not an area renowned for its beaches. this disc is hard to acquire with the quirky picture sleeve that features the group posing on the shore of Lake Erie with beachball, sunshade and guitar at he ready..
A listing for those collectors who dig deep and appreciate unconventional 7" 45s that depict an era, a place and a time, that few other vintage artefact could do so aptly.
an autographed 1962 Ohio/Michigan Teen/Surf hybrid ... whatever next?
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, previously unplayed vinyl, neat clean picture cover, moniker by the three members with their first names. Very neat 45 that shimmers with rarity
Drifters
Saturday Night At The Movies / Spanish Lace
Atlantic : AT 4012 DJ (45s)
Who hasn't, at some point during their lives danced to this quintessential Drifters view of the classic 60's weekend pursuit for lovers.. . A Christmas of 1964 release, that witnessed this immortal Soul Club anthem launched on the British public, it was love at first sight, a love that has endured for nearly 60 years.
The bringing together of the music industry's most influential New Yorkers, Bert Bern, Teacho Wilshire, Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil with the nearly as good mood-changing flipside "Spanish Lace " written by Doc Pomus & Mort Shuman the gathering, utilizing Atlantic's in-house full orchestra created a timeless piece of Soul music that will probably live forever. A song that is impossible not to be in love with, drenched in the power to catapult everybody over 50 years of age, back to their "wonder years" .
Before you today is the Sasquatch-Rare December 1964 yellow DEMO, our first promo copy quite some time. A vista that transcends memories of the past, because I never encountered a Demo copy in my youth. With no Discogs file for the promo copy, underlining just how seriously elusive this classic yellow promo is, an iconic British collectors prize with two clean labels and play clean vinyl.
Memories are made of this...
Condition Report
two clean labels, strong gloss vinyl revealing only soft surface hairlines under light.
Jumbo Sterling / Junior Smith
My Sugar Ain't Sweet / I Don't Know
Sioux : SI 023 (45s)
a 1972 archive promo copy with previously unplayed vinyl - a spectacular copy!
An exclusive to the UK British production, written and produced by label owner and entrepreneur Jack Price, who after cutting his teeth working for Melodisc Records, in the West End of London, WC2. Jack Price took and avid interest in Reggae starting up this colourful imprint, such was Jack's enthusiasm he christened himself "King Reggae" and released fully 25 x 45s in just a short period of time from 1971 to 1972.
number 023 being one of the most-wanted in this series. Starting life as a flipside to a mellow mid-tempo by Junior Smith. A slick but rather unexciting session, "I Don't Know" is tidy but falling way short of the keyboard instrumental lurking ready to pounce from the b-side. "My Sugar Ain't Sweet " is an additively tricky display of Hammond organ showboating. Relentlessly entwining the keyboard around jerking bass guitar dance pulses. Swirling whistling organ takes to the air, as solid early 70's Reggae with an atmosphere of USA native Indian breaking out..
One very cool tune, and an elusive British 45, even rarer in this impossible promo condition.
Condition Report
"A" side promo has two soft sticker residue shadows, otherwise two clean promo labels, vinyl is previously unplayed, full gloss perfect.
Charades
The Key To My Happiness / Weeping Cup
MGM : K13540 DJ MANSHIP MINT (45s)
In short:
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL!! at it's incomparable BEST! When you're on the dancefloor and this is dropped...it will most likely be the defining moment of your evening. Sounds like this, were the inspiration for droves of teenagers travelling 100's of miles a weekend for the chance to dance to these exceptional powerful productions. It is also why those same teens are still doing it 50 years further down the line.
Distilled vocal-group Northern Soul!! at its most-potent!
IN PERFECT MINT condition!
***Soundfiles lifted from a pervious mint minus copy - this copy remains unplayed***
Condition Report
MINT unplayed still housed in birth sleeve
Joe The Boss / Joe's All Stars
Skinhead Revolt / Tony B's Theme
Joe: JRS 9 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
A 1970 Skinhead Reggae Grail in MINT archive condition, a tiny discreet file number 1248 on the a-side label, is the only freckle on the perfect face of this Reggae anthem.
Joe Mansano the industrious Trinidadian working under the wing of Trojan records, built up one of Great Britain's most collectable small labels, JOE.
This listing is the extremely in-demand release number 9, which Joe hooked into the burgeoning MOD scene extension, the subculture of The Skinhead and their love for Reggae. Conjuring up an unintentional instrumental masterpiece he nonchalantly placed on the B-side of a really nice, addictively fluid but benign by comparison Hammond organ instrumental, that didn't quite carry enough "edge" to become another "Liquidator" or "Return Of The Django" but the flipside was a different story.
"Skinhead Revolt" has Joe chanting the title's mantra, within an enlivened keyboard master whacks out wild swirling dance rhythms, with an overlay of a magnificently muscular Trombone display, driving the message forward. Joe pulling a string of classic ingredients into the mix. Snippets from nostalgic Prince Buster sessions subtly worked into the rhythms. A total dancefloor delight unfolds, later to become one of the most-wanted Skinhead anthems of the all.
You will never encounter a fine example, than this previously unplayed 45, but I must admit I've played in 3 times in a row, as those charismatic rhythms crept under my skin..
A truly awesome tune, I'm unable to put down. .. A MANSHIP MINT I'm kinda reluctant to sell..
Condition Report
Perfect, previously unplayed vinyl, both sides. two bright crisp full colour labels (see images) a tiny discreet file number 1248 on the a-side label the only flaw on the entire recorrd. Full gloss perfect vinyl. Remarkable "s good as it gets" condition
Inuz Moore
If It Ain't One Thing It's Another / Trouble
Gardin : 45X501 (45s)
"If It Ain't One Thing It's Another" is a jumping, brass peppered NS dancer (a classic Bill Kealy) spin. This is crunching mover of the most persuasive kind, with Inuz ratcheting up the session with a caged animal snarling delivery, you just can't evade, it's there right in your face, commanding you to get up and dance, incessantly prompted by stabbing horns, rattling percussion, enthusiastic piano rhythms push Inuz to another level of invasive Soul!
But it doesn't end there... ""Trouble" is just around the corner, as the same guys whip up another fearsome storm on the flipside; bulldozing their way through another "Inuz Moore" creation with a deceptive slow intro, that suddenly collides with hard-blown horns, the ideal vehicle for the seasoned Inuz's gnarled vocal to imbed itself into, then the battle begins for prominence. As bass guitar pulses pump away in the background, and "Spitfire" horns swoop in attacking from above.. .
Proper Street-level dance, not once but twice over...
You could spend a few lifetimes trying to find this seriously rare Los Angeles Stomper, in this flawless, near perfect condition. Another MANSHIP MINT most likely previously unplayed copy, revealing just a couple of minuscule sleeve storage blemishes.
AS good as it gets in more ways than one..
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, full gloss vinyl reveals nly the merest soft sleeve blemish upon forensic scrutiny
Clara Wood
You're After My Guy / Old and Grey
Imperial : 66122 DJ (45s)
This divine example of sweet girl vocal Northern Soul from the mysterious Clara Ward flows with that seamless Philly "smooth". Clara delivers one of those voices you feel you should know already, equally stunning in its clarity as well as its familiarity, as Martin and Terry craft the age-old girl story of love-competition. Clara's shrill premonitions are beautifully delivered, as she warns her rival I know "You're After My Guy " but you are wasting your time. That honeyed voice does evoke visions of one beautiful lady, with cutting edge to her personality if provoked.
But this is so much more that just a tale of Soul sister strife, that was played out so often at The Greatstone Hotel in Manchester where this rarity was such a popular tune. The flipside packs a NS wallop also.
"Old and Grey" is the original 1965 version of the Marva Lee 1970 recording, that had Morris Bailey replacing Phil Terry and Dick De Marco &, Marty Dippolito replacing Bobby Martin, as this cool song is revamped on the Philly Rugby label. But loses that slick innocence and the superior vocal, leaves me with no hesitation declaring Clara Wood the best version by quite some distance.
Two great sides showcasing, early Philly shimmering in its slick, simple is genius glory.
Condition Report
clean a-side promo label, flipside label has a 12% label flake (see mage) good gloss vinyl, reveals only soft hairlines u#nder light.
Thelma Houston
Baby Mine / The Woman Behind Her Man
Capitol : 5767 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
Mint Unplayed - Perfect Vinyl - Perfect Labels
Still housed in its birth-sleeve
Condition Report
Manship's Mints for Christmas - Mint Unplayed - Perfect Vinyl - Perfect Labels - stil housed in birth sleeve
Tommy Neal
Goin' To a Happening / Tee Ta
Vocalion : V-L 9290 DJ (45s)
This British the 8th. March 1968 VOCALION DEMO is its rarest clothes by a long, long way. An Iconic British Demo!
Before you today is one of the most challenging British Northern Soul classics to acquire as a DEMO copy. By far this timeless classic's most sought after, least seen format, especially if you are an old-school British Soul collector, for whom this promo label and birth sleeve combination will be pulse racing.
A timeless NS anthem in its British "grail" clothes! just listen to the music that catapults you back to your golden years, drool over that iconic label vista.
... then plan for it to be yours!
This DEMO just doesn't come to market often enough ... to give it as moment of pause..
Condition Report
Two totally clean red DEMO labels, 4 prong centre intact, full gloss vinyl reveals only a few soft hairlines when angled in the light. a strong Excellent plus.
Solomon King
This Beautiful Day / Say A Prayer
Columbia : DB 8676 DJ (45s)
Before you today, is the May 1970 first press promo, in magnificent condition. A British born Northern Soul classic that fill the dancefloors since the very early 70's., a record that failed to sell but was swiftly deleted from the EMI catalogue. Secretly brought back to life under a pseudonym 15 months later. Leaving the Northern Soul DJ / collector with two choices, but you gotta go with the FIRST PRESS 15 month earlier, than go with the fancy name EMI remarketed it with..
A Top 500 classic in it's rarest, in its most alluring format...
from"Levi Jackson" as EMI try just one more time to break into the rare Soul dance market, but failed.
Almost Soussan-esque EMI rechristened Solomon King as Levi Jackson - but the potency of "This Beautiful Day" failed again to get noticed..
the rest is history.. a timeless classic slab of Northern Soul. One of Britain's most-wanted British Soul 45 releases, is presented here as the gorgeous 1970 green & white promo.
An irresistible vinyl vista giving up overwhelming Northern Soul.
The lure of the British promo could not be stronger...
Multi-natoional input from
Condition Report
Two flawless promo labels, fine clean vinyl, please note there is a solitary scratch that triggers some dull clicks after 1/2 way, listen to the soundfile. That still leaves yuou staggered by the sledgehammer destructive power of this timeless Northern Soul classi, click stand back and to unleash it's shuddering personality, prepare to be blown you away.
Spinners
Sweet Thing / How Can I
Tamla Motown : TMG 514 (45s)
Here is an immaculate copy of the seldom seen 1965 store release, that EMI arguably blindly credited as The Spinners ignoring the fact, that there was already a group called "The Spinners" doing rather well in the British Isles release 45s & Albums on Fontana, a popular and well know folk group who were regularly on the TV and placed high in the charts. Many feel the release and sales of TMG 514 suffered from the fact "The Spinners" were a folk group and Friday release sheet scanners will have passed over the release, first time round, release-sheet scholars looking for "soul" music.
An EMI oversight that happened again 9 releases later on TMG 523 with "I'll Always Love You"; now whether EMI decided a belated name change would benefit sales, or whether it was, as the preferred story suggests, that Philips Phonograph objected to the name clash of another "Spinners" perhaps hitting the charts, and asked for some other name for the Motown group to avoid confusion.
EMI withdrew TMG 523 as The Spinners and hastily relaunched it as The Detroit Spinners. Did they receive a polite reminder from Philips Phonograph? That is unclear but the name The Detroit Spinners was born, a christening the group carried over when they signed for Atlantic Records.
Before you today is the very rare TMG 514, the Spinners very first UK Tamla Motown release, in sparling full gloss vinyl, perfect labels still housed in its birth sleeve. A spectaculsar copy of The Spinners finest Northern Sou early 45, giving up a flipside that is almost as impressive.
If your priority whilst collecting the rare TMG's, look no further, or this thought of owning one of the very rarest Tamla Motown 45's in the level of condition you are unlikely to better.,..do not pass by
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, 4 prong centre intact. Full gloss vinyl reveals only the merest soft sleeve contact hairline brushes under direct light, both sides play flawless, still housed in its birth-sleeve. Here is a "good as you could dream of owning" copy.
Rubaiyats
Omar Khayyam / Tomorrow
Action : ACT 4516 (45s)
Allen Toussaint's mysterious Bayou gathering "The Rubaiyats " gave birth in 1968, to this one-off recording, Sansu led with the b-side first "Tomorrow" a strong Southern Soul ballad. but hides on the flipside an inventive journey into the new Orleans world of Toussaint and his right-hand Marshall E. Seahorn a pairing that created so many classic Soul recordings. Whilst retaining all the characteristics of 60's NOLA the bludgeoning brass, the Bayou beat, liberally coated with strong male vocals, the subject matter is rather unique though, it works so well.
Toussaint and Seahorn transform the world's most famous poem "The Rubaiyat" a 1000 years old, so brilliantly highlighting its message of enjoy life to the full, the mantra is "Wine Women & Song".
before you today is quite simply this cherished UK label's rarest, most-valuable & most wanted 45. Accentuated by recent NS DJ attention, particularly the legendary but now retired DJ John Vincent who is spinning it to death - to a crushing dancefloor response. 100% New Orleans, featuring totally innovative lyrics lauding the virtues of “Wine, Women & Song”, can’t argue with that or it’s rarity endorsements. This is only our 4th. copy nearly 20 years. None of this previous copies anywhere near the spanking condition.
You could of course, always hold out for the USA Sansu press - but we have found that, even harder to find, but far less eye-catching. Unconventional in the extreme but saturated in all those infectious qualities that make it usually the most-memorable spin of any evening! The prolific Allen Toussaint & Marshal C. Seahorn again craft an unmissable tune…
Considering by the established elusivity of the USA press, with see this exceptional condition British press - an investment piece.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, 4 prong centre intact, full gloss vinyl is only the merest sign of sleeve contact hairlines, a strong brilliant mint minus
Joe Hicks
Don't It Make You Feel Funky / Soul Meeting
AGC: 1 (45s)
Condition Report
Two clean labels, small blemish on the b-side label where a tiny price sticker residue has faded one small oblong of the label (see images)
Various Artists
Wigan Casino 25th. Anniversary Box Set / 10 x 45 20 x Northern Soul classics STILL SEALED
Goldmine / Soul Supply : GS1000X STILL SEALED MANSHIP MINT (7")
It is now over 22 years since this 20 titled 10 x 7" 45s box set hit the market. Since then most all those boxes have been split down for the singles to be sold off separately and sadly many of the original art-covers discarded or lost. But still the value of the singles on their own, with or without their original sleeves has mushroomed, but you knew that already.
This offering is for the collector who appreciates completeness, pristine condition and top-drawer Northern Soul...this box offers all that and more STILL SEALED UPOPENED.
A fabulous Christmas stocking filler.
Check out the eye-watering track listing on the images, every 45 and cover is Mint unplayed, the box is still seal in original wrapping.
20 stonkin' slabs of real-deal Northern Soul shimmering in "investment" condition.
Do the maths..
Condition Report
STILL SEALERD - MANSHIP MINT
Doris & Kelly
You Don't Have To Worry / Groove Me With Your Love
Brunswick : 55327 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
Four master songwriters/producers join forces, not only to write but also to duet with each other on a mid-tempo slab of Northern Soul Crossover, that is currently massively in-demand in every rare-soul scene across the globe.
Dorian Burton & Ernest Kelly make a dream match, Doris shrill voice the perfectly complimenting Ernest's dreamy crooning. Creating a haunting mid-tempo flow of reassurance, cradled by stunningly gorgeous but simplistic backdrop built by two other gifted East Coast producers Mike Lewis & Stuart Wiener for "Good Time Productions Inc:" another union behind so many top-quality Northern Soul dancers that emerged from New York
A hypnotic floater, that simultaneously causing huge interest within several different rare Soul scenes. One listen and it's starts to absorb you, ticking all the boxes of addictive charm, as it glides through your space.
Big tune, that hooks you just when you least expect it. The flipside is also a sublime "grown on you" session.
This copy is a MANSHIP MINT still housed inside it's birth-sleeve. AS good as it gets condition - do not pass by.
Condition Report
MINT previously unplayed vinyl, two flawless labels, all housed in birth-sleeve. PERFECTION!
Afrotones / Beltones
All For One / Broken Heart
High Note : HS 023 (45s)
Condition Report
two clean labels, 4 prong centre intact,
Overtones
What Would I Do / The Gleam In Your Eye
Hip City Record Corp. : HC-TOV-2 (45s)
Flipside is an exemplary falsetto led Lowrider group harmony masterpiece, featuring seamless lead vocal changeovers
A crucial disc, for scholars of seriously rare male vocal group delights, turn of the decade indie serves up a double helping of Soul that demands your attention.
We lead with the Northern Soul dancer, raw, compelling and utterly infectious emotional journey into Delaware Soul. An emotional lead, that cracks on all the right peaks, as his fellow vocalists cradle him through this 2.00 minute meltdown of Northern Soul, that rarity thus far, has deprived it of the turntable outings it so very much deserves.. Rarity again, has hampered it's recognition; as we know of only a handful of copies that have come to market in the last 20 years. and most staying in the USA for the incredible ballad side.. the time is now for Northern Soul to pay this 45 some attention.
Flip it over and we back our preceding enthusiasm with something truly special; A silky Low Rider/Sweet Soul delicacy drenched in falsetto exquisiteness. Prepare to listen and melt, as neighborhood street-corner Soul clasps your heart.. the impressive falsetto prolonged holding of every note perfectly, then from nowhere the lead vocal switches, then the falsetto bounces back in and the pair go tit-for-tat through the song gliding on a carpet of harmony support..to an majestic finale.
Of it's genre, the Sweet Soul side is an authoritative recording with all those beautiful rough edges that we adore, as the emotion seeps out, filling your space.. just awesome! The dance side benefitting from its addictive uniqueness and the malleable flowing harmonies woven into a NS dance beat.
Two remarkable sides one very rare 45 from the streets.. one side for the "All Niter" dancers, the other perfect suited for the Sunday chill-out sessions..
.
Condition Report
NOTE, the 45 has double labels of the "The Gleam In Your Eye" "What Would I Do" is differentiated with a handwritten A - S (see images) ""The Gleam In Your Eye"" side has
Antonio Castro
W.E.L.F.A.R.E. / Why Can't I Have You
United International : U.I.1001 (45s)
New York resident Antonio Castro is better known to Northern Soul scholars as Tony Amaro who's release on Loma "Runnin' Around" still hasn't today, reached the audience it has long, so deserved. Moving on just 4 years Antonio's music has regenerated into Latin flavoured jazz, together with New York Jazz exponents James Taylor & Alan Fontaine form a team of accomplished musicians headed up by Latin guru Ray Rivera.
1971 was the year Soul music began to prick the urban conscience of the USA, with social comment of the "black" struggle within a sense of hopelessness. Antonio Castro's line " Instead Of Getting Ahead, I keep Falling Behind" underlines his mood, as the gathering draw heavily from Marvin Gaye's genius "What's Going On" album, like so many did in that year of "protest awareness".
Castro's vocal is a perfect fit for the Jazz/Latin alchemy stirring in the background; simplistic piano rhythms, skilled guitar riffs "My Woman and Me Fight So Hard" slides toward a fabulous guitar break as Antonio's voice soars high and beyond... as he draws this magnificent mid-tempo masterpiece to a close..
leaving the listener and the dancer feeling a whole lot better than they did 3 minutes earlier... but has left the serious collectors in frustration, as acquiring the original press vinyl, have always been such a exasperating challenge..
Super rare - super addictive - 70's 45.
Condition Report
Two totally clean label, vinyl reveals only a couple of soft hairlines, plays flawless
Linda Jones
I Just Can't Live My Life ( Without You Babe ) / My Heart ( Will Understand )
Warner Bros : 7278 (45s)
Pure genius from George Kerr to open with the harp, as an intro for Linda's spine-tinging vocal to awaken your senses. Standing on the carpet next to the dancefloor I was instantly stunned, when Ian Levine dropped it on the "Mecca" turntables circa 1973. Ironically, when weeks later as this record rose to the "No. 1 NS tune" in the country, a close friend in our travelling gang of Melton Mowbray & Stamford, was killed in a car accident travelling home from an allnighter. It was her favourite record, a heart-breaking tribute of flowers spelled out " I Just Can't Live My Life, Without You Babe " from all her NS friends.
This is an iconic recording that means so many different things to so many people, not least of all a testament to the irreplaceable voice of Linda Jones, surely the greatest Soul Sister vocal that the world of Northern Soul adored, but the rest of the world never got to know.
An incomparable Northern Soul anthem, that still today makes the hairs on my arms bristle, my pulse quicken, my eyes moisten... whilst an inner warmth, glows inside of me.. as I feel so blessed to have been part of a musical movement that was forever discovering afro-american genius, that altered the course of our lives.
This posting is in the memory of Stamford soul girl Pauline Jarvis who tragically had her life cut short in 1973...still fondly remembered by all who knew her, especially for being the young girl with outstanding taste and dedication to Soul music..
You've not got a Northern Soul collection of completeness, unless this masterpiece is nestled on your shelves, at hand, ready to change your mood upon request.
Condition Report
Two clean green stock copy labels, soft storage rub on flipside label. Strong gloss on vinyl reveals multiple fine sleeve storage hairlines, when angled under direct light. NOTE this is, the first trip over the pond for this disc, it has never seen England before, consequently a NS virgin, that has not suffered the demanding rigors, multiple stylus fatigue, that many copies of this NS anthem have endured over the near five decades this timeless classic has pleasured the NS faithful.
Essex IV
My Reaction To You / My Heart Just Can't Take It
Wind Mill : W-2001 (45s)
From 1974 thru 1978 I'd truly look forward to my monthly box of new release samples from "Daly City Bob", then order multiples of the ones I really liked. In 1975 the arrival of The Essex IV , I thought I had a totally exceptional 45, I adored both sides, and quickly put in an order for 50 copies. But unfortunately the time lapse of enthusiasm through air mail, often found Bob unable to source any more than the initial copies he'd purchased. Phone calls to the USA in 1975 were damn expensive. He did however send me a meagre handful, but was unable to get any more of this wonderful Bob Yorey and Richie Rome's East Coast creation.
It became an instant sought after 45, an overnight big tune for the "Modern" Soul DJs and collectors across the scene.
Now 40 years later it still shimmers with all the now seasoned qualities these two studio creators possessed Bob Yorey (The Glories etc.) and Richie Rome (If You Ask Me - Jerry Williams) and a truck load more. Two talented and experienced studio magicians in 1975 were still crafting gems, with Jack Perriocone superior string driven arrangement. Although a b-side for me, "My Reaction" is one of the greatest totally Soulful dancers of that time, so very classy, standing head and shoulders above the imminent East Coast "Disco Explosion" that eventually rinsed out all meaningful "Soul" content out of new East East dance productions.
Flip it over for the original a-side and hear "My Heart Just Can't Take It " another full orchestra production, the guys lay down a magic-carpet for the magnificent lead vocal to fly on. Heavenly full girl group assist, with other male vocals coming in to enrich this already lush landscape, crowned by a fabulous piano led, string saturated partitioned by a brass endorsed instrumental break.
Wonderful!
They just don't make records like this any more, two killer sides, that today still tower above it's contemporaries and so very hard to acquire in this stunning mint minus condition!
Do not ponder over such brilliance... this disc is already enjoying a second coming.
Condition Report
Perfect labels, unblemished vinyl gives up perfect sound. a glorious mint minus copy.
Fi-Dels
Try A Little Harder / You Never Do Right ( My Baby )
Keymen : K 106 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
There are times Northern Soul anthems can tire your mind, some of them overplayed so very much, even their unique greatness can begin to diminish.
This Jackie Lee & Bob Relf moment of genius has never-ever had that affect on me. I recall as a fledgling 18 year old Soul collector at college in Leicester, along with a class mate, we'd read Blues & Soul, check out the new releases then go down to Ainley's Record store, near the clock tower. We'd order anything recommended by Dave Godin in his must-read column and also anything Jay Boy was releasing. It was our favourite label of the moment. We'd already secured "The Cats" monster by Richard Temple, a record I hadn't heard until it arrived on special order.. it of course completely blew me away. As did Philip Mitchell's - Free For All, Jackie Lee's - Oh My Darlin' . Then there was two released in the same week The Furys - I'm Satisfied With You & The Fi-Dels - Try A Little Harder...in July 1972
.
As an 18 year to acquire two records of this calibre, at the same time, was more than magical; traveling home on the train I was in a state high anticipation, rushing to your bedroom at 25 Baldocks Lane and dropping them onto the turntable one after the other was an exhilarating experience that will never leave me. It was just the most inspiring Soul dance music I'd ever heard. I remember my Mum wondering what all the commotion was about, as I stomped around my bedroom like a teenager possessed, in the "Exorcist" Movie was only a year away...my head didn't turn 360 degrees on my shoulders, but my brain certainly did.
But I was now utterly bewitched, enthralled... totally consumed by the tumultuous effect Northern Soul was having on me.. I was of course hooked and I still am.. before me today are not only the delights of holding a near perfect vinyl of an influential classic. It is also an euphoric moment of time-travel, an experience back to my formative years of Northern Soul... I was of course just one of 1000's of youngsters up and down the country living this investigative musical experience...
For me "Try A Little Harder" is one of the most superlative NS tunes of them all .. but also giving up a flipside, every note as good, a down-tempo masterpiece that is starting to pick up action in the clubs 48 years after my initiation, from those DJ's who dig deeper than the obvious. Northern Soul DJ's seeking something imaginative, excitingly fresh, a head-turner of powerfully haunting qualities check out the previously neglected flipside.. again utterly captivating Northern Soul from the creative mind of Bob Relf.
Noting here is timeless NS anthem, has previously unplayed vinyl still snugly sitting in it's birth-sleeve
Condition Report
MANSHIP MINT for Christmas, previously unplayed vinyl, some soft age-browning on the promo label inspect images.
Frank James
Sea Of Faces / The Story Of My Life
Tru-Sound : 424 (45s)
This session was guided by the now iconic, but then 29 year old David Axlerod, a producing magician who has provided so many inventive beats, breaks within his huge volume of work, he has become an oasis for "Hip-Hop" producers to draw from.
Axlerod brilliantly ignites this session from the very first note, as dynamic fortissimo piano pulses, the perfect steppingstones for a brutal snarling vocal to stroll upon, a full throated search for his girl is decorated by a melancholy mouthorgan accompaniment. With Axelrod adding layer after layer of atmospheric inventiveness, a full vocal group harmonized chorus enriching his journey as his love-search unfolds in "A Sea Of Faces". A fanfare of trumpets take to the air at all the crucial moments. The mouthorgan still timing its wailings tom perfection in the background, this moody Popcorn stroller slowly but surely grabs you by the throat.
Throughout it all, are Axerod's thumping piano pulses, peppering the background, ensuring not for a moment are ever thinking of leaving the dancefloor, as this Popcorn-persuader stranglehold tightens its grip...
Narcotic Big City Beating Popcorn! in fabulous condition.
Condition Report
Clean a-side label, b-side label is absent, but the vinyl is immaculate, very unusual for this title to be witnessed with full gloss unblemished playing surface.
Calvin Turner & Bad News
I've Got To Have My Back / After All
Lulu: 200 (45s)
In recent times, only a very few artists like Herman Hitson or McArthur have left me in mesmeric state of spellbinding Soul appreciation.
The combination of label owner and producer Jerry Herman skilled understated arrangement, allowing Calvin Turner's persuasive voice, to convey desperate hopelessness and pain, is the greatest slab of unadulterated street-level-Soul I've been able to immerse myself in, in quite some time.
Stop everything, plug the headphones in, click the soundfile and share this man's brokenhearted melody... listen and weep, this is beyond Deep Soul realism, it is actually an opportunity to escape from your own troubles no matter what they may be. Into this guys palpable pain.
Not overlooking the fact, that the flipside " After All " is top-drawer, highly sought-after Northern Soul Crossover that seldom turns up for sale... a big ticket item in its own right. Jerry Herman's working association with the Turner Brothers and his LULU adventure has now matured, gone are the inferior mastering and recording results. The team are nailing street-level Soul to the master of D.I.Y. excellence..
Killer 45 which ever side you drop the arm on, with "I've Got To Have My Back" quite simply my favourite tune of 2020 so far...
Condition Report
Two clean yellow labels, mint minus play perfect vinyl... a beauty!
Ideals
The Mighty Lover / Dancing In U S A
Boo-Ga-Loo : BL 108 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
Labels and vinyl are unblemished. Not a super rare 45, but actually very hard to acquire with full rich color label ( almost always, suffering from storage rub of various stages) on those more than delicate paper labels.
Here is the purple label "CHICAGO" area distributed press. Re-credited to THE IDEALS instead of the "MIGHTY LOVERS" pressed in styrene as opposed to "Archer" vinyl.
Fabulously moody Detroit Northern Soul stroller with a huge reputation...as the other version of Detroit Executives "Cool Off"; Richard Popcorn Wylie & Tony Hester again displaying no confines to their musical ingenuity. Here is the pair at their most-creative, no other Northern Soul 45 can be compared to it's sheer coolness. Nothing spring to my mind as being so pedestrian whilst at the same time commending you to dance.
We could talk about the dynamic Detroit duo, Richard Popcorn Wylie & Tony Hester all night.. so just listen, absorb and enjoy the clarity of a archive standard copy of a truly great fabrication of silky vocal-grouio Soul.
Condition could not be finer!
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, rich full depth of colour, vinyl full gloss and unblemished. A beauty!
Johnny Summers
I Can't Let Go / Tell It Like I Feel
Yorktown : Y 1009 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
Another top drawer Miles Grayson arrangement using the same backing track as "I'm Still Yours" one release earlier. This time Miles injects a more beseeching atmosphere around Johnny's despairing situation as it builds and builds. With those despairing Harold Bowen lyrics, deliberately softened by a searing girl-group chorus, as his pain swells. Awesome Northern Soul, shiver inducing dance Soul.
Not to often does such deepened misery get so deliciously woven into such a potent Northern Soul dance arrangement!.
This copy is unplayed perfect, still house in it's birth-sleeve.
Magnificent Northern Soul, both sides!
Condition Report
MINT unplayed still in birth-sleeve
Eddie Holiday & Joey Kingfish
I Won't Hurt You Anymore / blank
Groovesville Music : 10" Acetate (10")
All croqueted into a highly effective, but low-key arrangement of sympathetic piano, caressing percussion, cradling a vivid picture being painted by the lead singer of the Holidays, with his apologetic tones of sorrow.
A conflicting mournful melody, that actually lifts you right-up into Soul Heaven!
WHAT A TUNE!
Condition Report
two clean labels (see images), full gloss lacquer, just a few soft hairlines, plays crisp clean and true.
Kenny Shepard
What Difference Does It Make / Try To Understand
Maxx : 332 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
Mint Unplayed - Perfect Vinyl -Perfect Labels
It matters not which side you drop the needle on - NORTHERN SOUL BEAT BALLAD HEAVEN will overwhelm you.
Condition Report
MINT unplayed - still housed in birth-sleeve
Rio Grandes
Soldiers Take Over / Moses
Pyramid : PYR 6001 (45s)
By 1967 call to arms anticipating "The Soldiers are coming" opening with a drill group trumpeting; with that brass-blast the shifting sands of Jamaican music was all but complete from SKA, Rock Steady was the sound of the mid-60's. Solidly depicted in this Duke Reid session, rolling out simplistic but highly effective vocal group harmony, from the turbulent year of 1967. A song predicting "Soldiers Take Over", a mid-tempo stroller liberally sprinkled with punched-in piano notes, punctuating the harmony vocals. A wonderful saxophone solo elevates the session half way through, the "Steady" production envelopes your space ass the mysterious "Rio Grandes" staying tight and fluid throughout. A thoroughly haunting tune unfolds ...
Flip it over for a wailing harmony blend of Rock Steady / Gospel / Soul again underlining the gatherings ease of togetherness, this time an inventive break blending rhythmic guiatar with Rock Steady pulses.
Two cool tunes that very seldom come to market...the first 45 on this highly regarded British imprint making it even more desirable..
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong centre fully intact. VInyl reveals soft hairlines, some soft background crackle in the quiet pauses.
Tobi Legend
Time Will Pass You By / Heartbreaker
Mala : 591 DJ MANSHIP MINT (45s)
One of Northern Soul's most important records
presented here as an impossible archive promo copy - previously UNPLAYED -
you cannot be serious... !!
Condition Report
Mint previously unplayed archive copy - vinyl reveals only a few minuscule sleeve storage hairlines under direct light - small file number on the flipside label its only freckle on the face of perfection!
Record Mailers
5 x VINTAGE 60's COMPANY MAILERS / King, Kama Sutra, Atlantic, Decca, Liberty Records
Record Mailers x 5 : x5 (45s)
A unique stocking-filler for the serious Soul collector or memorabilia enthusiast.
FIVE x original 60's 7" 45 record company mailers - from 1963 too 1969
1. From the office of LIBERTY RECORDS Los Angeles, California - July 03 1967
2. KAMA SUTRA RECORDS New York - May 8th. 1967
3. KING RECORDS, Cincinnati, Ohio 45207 - August 21st. 1968 10 cents postage
4. DECCA RECORDS - THE STARS ARE OUT on DECCA, CORAL, BRUNSWICK - 445 Park Ave., N. Y. C. 08 cents Postage
5. ATLANTIC / ATCO RECORDS 1841 Broadway, New York, New York 10023 May 5th. 1969
These mailers are so hard to acquire, unique and look fabulous randomly placed in your record room or carefully framed.
Conversation pieces very few other collectors own.
Condition Report
Excellent condition, none tainted by any outside writing, stains. All carefully opened see images.
Furys
I'm Satisfied With You / Just A Little Mixed Up
Jay Boy : BOY 68 DJ MANSHIP MINT (45s)
Not only Jay Boy's most elusive Northern Soul DEMO 45.
This offering is a 49 year old previously UNPLAYED MANSHIP MINT
Astonishing!
Condition Report
MINT previously unplayed archive promo. Still housed in wavy top glossy birth sleeve
Little Richie
Just Another Heartache / I Wish I Was A Baby
Sound Stage 7 : 2554 MANSHIP MINT (45s)
A MANSHIP MINT!
A Northern Soul anthem - unbelievably UNPLAYED, perfect and still in birth sleeve
Condition Report
MINT UNPLAYED
San Franciscan TKO's / Peggy Gaines
Make Up Your Mind / When The Boy That You Love ( Is Loving You )
Kent Anniversary : 6T 14 (45s)
The level of quality Northern Soul that Ady Croasdell, Godfather of the 100 Club all-nighter has selected every year since 1985 is astonishing; all handpicked, consequently cementing the Kent 6T Anniversary label, as the most collectable UK imprint of all time.
This is number 14 in the series from 1998, is for me, sitting high in my personal top five faves of the series. Utterly killer vocal-group Northern Soul that drives the dancers to the floor in droves. The addictive intro, gushes hanging harmonies into the air, on a warm thermal breeze of horns. Giving up that rare experience of unassuming considerate voices, that carry immense power affecting your mood. So very classy, almost effortless, whilst still being intensely beseeching. The amalgamation of seamless harmonies, a despairing lead vocal reaching into your being, presented on a carpet of silky horns filling the landscape.. this is just awesome! With, that once heard hook-line staying with you for life.
Beyond belief Northern Soul excellence.
But there's more, all you have to do is flip it over, to be wafted off to NS dreamland by the dulcet Songbird tones of Peggy Gaines, meshed in a sultry brilliantly simplistic NS Crossover dance arrangement. Lilting piano, gently caressed guitar, carefully brushed percussion, is all this Sister requires to convince you to fall in love with this uncomplicated Soul girl masterpiece.
Two killer tunes on one rare disc, that very few owners would ever be willing to part with.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, full gloss vinyl revealing only the merest soft sleeve storage hairline under direct light, plays perfect, both sides
Louisa Jane White
When The Battle Is Over / Blue Ribbons
Philips: Philips BF 1810 3 prong (45s)
A killer rare version of the Mac Rebennack & Jesse Hill New Orleans composition ably covered by Delany and Bonny on their "Accept No Substitute" album from the same year. A wise choice of song for this lady with such a commanding vocal that is able to convey the very feel of New Orleans, that Dr. John & Jesse Hill injected into the lyrics. Arranged by the prolific musical director Des Champ, produced by Jazz pianist Tommy Sanderson who weaves his keyboards skills into the busy landscape. But it is that outraged Fuzz guitar and the combative gravel-coated Louisa Jane vocal that turns the session into a must-own experience.
The flipside another borrowed song, this time from David Ackles first 1968 album on Elektra. Louisa Jane delivers another impassioned but despondent testament to sister Prog Rock, with the potency of the little know Louisa Jane White's vocal blasting through the intricate arrangement...
Listen to two great sides from this lady with the mighty voice.. two muscular tunes from a lady oozing with vocal presence.
NOTING here is not only a copy in fabulous condition, it is also the impossibly rare, undocumented THREE PRONG centre press, which we have never ever seen before. So much more pleasing on the eye and infinitely more collectable than the large hole centre press. A proper rare British collectors piece.
Condition Report
Full gloss vinyl, THREE PRONG centre in place, clean labels see images.
Barbara Cooper
What's One More Tear / The Playground
RCA : 47-9048 DJ (45s)
In the very best of Northern Soul girl vocal traditions, Nashville produced Barbara Cooper nonchalantly shrugs off another heartache, serving up an inspired NS dancer. Part created by her long term writing partner Frank Catana. Frank is certainly no stranger to the Northern Soul rhythms having worked with Larry Santos, Shirley Ellis, Peggy March, Dana Valery, Kiki Dee to name just a few. Frank was certainly very at home with the upbeat feelgood 60's girl dance groove.
There's no denying Barbara has a beautifully controlled voice, reminiscent of Petula Clark, Evie Sands, Jackie DeShannon and other blue-eyed songbirds with enough texture in their voice to sound soulful, those ladies who have continually pleasured our ears, just like those aforementioned, Barbara also hits the big notes with consummate ease.
The finger-clicking arrangement guided by accomplish guitarist Walter Raim, builds the session up, with peaks perfectly placed to accentuate those glorious Northern Soul moments of euphoria.
A fabulous tune, that started life at Cleethorpes Pier circa 1976 always triggering strong dancefloor reaction; but is enjoying a much more recent NS renaissance with theDJ in the north of England lifting this disc into a floor-filling must-have, much, much bigger than it ever was the first time round some 25 years earlier. And rightly so, such a strong tune served up by a delicious voice.. for lovers of the Northern Soul girl-sound they don't come much more pleasing.
An essential DJ box resident when you need to get them off their seats.
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl, housed in correct RCA company sleeve
Mac Staten and The Nomads
There She Goes / Do The Freeze
Prelude: 1111 (45s)
After some in-depth research, The Nomads 2nd. release on the Prelude label, was in fact 1966 not 1964 and therefore "There She Goes / Do The Freeze" a more feasible late 1965 release. So all the internet information, including the Group's own biography was a couple of years out. Validated by their follow up 45 on Prelude "Icky Poo" (1966) That track considered an iconic example of Tittyshakin' R&B Surf, that does actually match the sound from that Southern California exotica sound of 1966. These guys were indeed super talented gathering made even better by the guidance of the great H. B. Barnum, who was at the taking an active interest in local talent from the San Diego area.
But this band were so much more than just H.B. influenced, featuring a plethora of talent with their 7 man line up, horns Doug Meyers and Lew Fay who was also San Diego's most respected saxophonist, vocal by "Mac" Staten, with Bill Rittel, Dick Blackwell, Dave Sleet, Greg Finley and Don Beck. 1963 thru 1966 were their major years for releasing 45's, that focused on a spectrum of R&B and Surf music. Their take on the 1960 Jesse Hill's "Ooh Poo Pah Doo" New Orleans classic, backed with their version of the Stax instrumental by Mar-Keys - Sac O' Woe you can hear The Nomads were inspired by early 60's R&B sound. Shifting slightly towards exotic instrumentals in 1966 most likely fed by the need to express their extreme musicianship to the limit.
Before you today is a Rarest-Of-The-Rare slab of inventive Northern Soul, that feels so '66, most likely 1965 with the combination of H. B. Barnum and the input from these talented band members typifying Northern Soul energy.
When first brought over to England it was an instant success being covered up as Bobby Angelle cover-up "She's My Baby". A recording conveying an uncompromising Northern Soul super-stomper; born of H. B. Barnum, who directs a relentless fly-past of menacing horns to guarantee instant NS dancefloor destruction, accentuated by Mr. Staten's explosive vocal assault on the senses. A ripping 2:20 minutes of incessant motivational firepower, perfect for those who can really dance the NS dance, it was an opportunity to lose yourself inside high-octane Northern Soul.
The journey doesn't stop there, just flip it over, strap yourself back in for another onslaught of real-deal Northern, as H. B. conjures up a dance-craze storm with "Do The Freeze", in the style James Brown and His Famous Flames would fall headlong into later during the mid-sixties, H. B. whips up a convincing cocktail of R&B/Funk again way ahead of his previous styles. Featuring a sustained Blues guitar solo decorating another brutal barrage of brass, burping Baritone Sax, horns and energetic percussion. But still the highlight of the recording, is the intimidating Mac Staten snarling larynx.
Cataclysmic seriously rare Northern Soul - which ever side you drop the arm on...
But to really get a feel for this over-accomplished, comfortably diverse early 60s band - do seek out and listen to The Nomads follow up 45 Prelude 1112 "Icky Poo", weird and wonderful Garage instrumental treasure, even without featuring that rasping Mac Staten vocal... rested for this recording.
Condition Report
Rarely seen clean labels, strong gloss vinyl delivering a crisp, clean n' loud experience.
Lou Edwards & Today's People
Talkin' 'Bout Poor Folks Thinkin' 'Bout My Folks / I Got To Be Me
Columbia : 4-45611 DJ (45s)
A Blackpool Mecca anthem that will never fade from the memories of the Highland Room congregation. I associate it as being a major part of the flamboyant DJ sets, Collin Curtis floored us all with in 1975. But it was actually Ian Levine who discovered the record and sold Colin his spare copy, so it was a two pronged turntable attack, that took this riveting social-statement to the top of Mecca's most-memorable plays.
In Colin's own words: "I became obsessed with the record as with Kenny Smith - Lord, The Delreys Incorporated -Destination, Bobby Womack - I Dont Know, Johnny Bragg -They Are Talking About Me - these records were all carrying real messages, which I hooked in to. In the summer of 1975 I made a visit to Dave Godin to be interviewed for Blues & Soul. The records we picked out for him to review were Lou Edwards & Today's People -Talkin' About Poor Folks Columbia. plus the MVP's Turnin' My Heartbeat Up, Main Squeeze - Let It All Come, Segments Of Time - Memories, Joshie Jo Armstead - I Got The Vibes, Patsy Gallant - Get That Ball UK CBS, Jesse Fisher - You're Not Loving A Beginner - Way Out, Kenny Smith - Lord, What's Happening To Your People - GAR
Those choices an unshakeable statement of the man's DJing inventiveness within a Northern Soul scene at the time, that was in some other areas tilting towards "pop" music. True rare-soul pioneers like Colin were navigating the changes and keeping Soul on track. With Cleethorpes Pier DJ's were heralding Colin as a demi-god, desperately trying to acquire everything he played. By 1976 Lou Edwards was delighting The Pier and The Winter Garden hordes on the opposite coast. Today "Talkin' 'Bout Poor Folks Thinkin' 'Bout My Folks" is a true Northern Soul classic without being an obvious candidate to ever be so.
Foresight, taste and belief Mr. Curtis brought us so many stand-out tunes, that many DJs would not have heard the potential in them..
Listen and remember the man, the place and the tune that have today become the very fabric of Northern Soul and all intricacies.
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels, mint minus VINYL. a fabulous condition promo copy, housed in its birth-sleeve
Jesse Johnson
Left Out / A Hundred Pounds Of Clay
Old Town : 1195 (45s)
Here is an utterly gorgeous black stock copy of this breathtaking double serving of Northern Soul. The towering honking horn classic "Left Out" constructed by New Yorker Randy Stewart, along with Eddie Campbell (without Ernie). The pair borrowing heavily from The Motown sound, even though Jesse is a lone voice in this spectacular production, the barrage of horn support catapults your mind right into the vortex of a Four Tops production, accentuated a torrential Motownesque saxophone break, follow by some signature Bari-sax prompts, welding the Big City sound of New York into Detroit flashbacks.
Flip it over for a muscular revamp of Stanley Kahan, Luther Dixon & Eddie Snyder Brill Building juggernaut "A Hundred Pounds Of Pain" which again Randall Stewart uncompromising approach to the production produces a mountainous piece of Northern Soul that has perhaps lived in the shadows of more than magnificent "Left Out" for too long.
Even those iconic Yellow Moon skyline labels cannot distract you for a moment, from the majestic Northern Soul that lies in the grooves, no matter which side you drop the arm on!
Condition Report
two clean yellow moon labels, see the artistic skyline images, vinyl only reveals some soft surface hairlines, no scratches, no ticks or pops. a strong Excellent copy, listen to two invasive examples of meaty Northern Soul.
Versatiles
Children Get Ready / Someone To Love
Crab : 1 (45s)
A 1968, powerful vocal-group dancer, the voices riding a wave of swirling Hammond rhythms, broken up by motivated bass guitar pulses.
This is total Skinhead Reggae dance, and all action groove, insistent and relentless from the very first explosive notes. Vocally uplifting with harmonized chants supporting the lead voices.
Flip it over for a classier dance pattern, a more considered rhythm, tighter harmonies, coat a mid-tempo arrangement that is not as frantic as the the a-side, that will be preferred by many. Over the more obvious dance qualities of the lead side.
Two great tunes on one elusive disc and so hard to find at this level of unblemished condition.
Condition Report
Spectacular condition, two flawless vinyl surfaces and labels to match. Mint - throughout