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.
Dorothy Berry
You Better Watch Out / Ain't That Love
Planetary: 101 (7")
This Los Angeles session for Dot Records in October 1964 initially choses the upbeat R&B shaker "Ain't That Love" as the a-side; a heavily influenced by "High Heel Sneaker" type rhythms, that were so successful for Motown and other companies of the 1964 era. Although "Ain't That Love" has over the years received occasional Northern Soul club attention, the frantic pace is now out of kilter with today's dancefloor styles.
Now entering into the Northern Soul arena is the hypnotic finger-clicking Latin pulses of "You Better Watch Out", David Gates capturing the very essence of hip-shaking Californian Latin Soul rhythms; for Dorothy and her supporting girls to brilliantly sashay through; an inventive instrumental partition in the middle throws some light on things that were to come from the 24 year old virtuoso.
Dorothy of course has never disappointed no matter what she sings. For me, Dorothy carries the same joyous optimistic persona, as our own Dusty Springfield would inject into her sessions. Singing saturated in sister enthusiasm that transfers to the dance-floor. With David Gates at the helm, a song is always going to shimmer with the power to uplift...
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, full gloss unblemished vinyl, looking so attractive in that Dot company cover
Betty Lloyd
I'm Catching On / You Say Things You Don't Mean
BSC : 401 (45s)
A long-validated Motor City evergreen, presented here in the level of condition that suggests it has never met a Northern Soul DJ before. We know it has but this 45 has been, but stunning disc was treasured by it's previous owner. No signs of hasty throwing on the turntable, with one hand and a pint of beer in the other. It's not been laid on top of the DJ box without a sleeve, whilst you choose you next 45, which needs hardly any thought of choice, as your dancefloor is already shoulder to shoulder rammed as they soak up, Betty's sultry soulful vocal.
A guaranteed, set-solidifying choice, a platform for the rest your DJ set to leap from; a record that instantly wins you the love of the crowd, applause guaranteed..
From the first blast of horns, this beseeching Sister's vocal portrays an intense recovery from deep hurt. But the girl is getting stronger and you're completely falling for her charms. The strength in her voice beams through, contradicting her hidden pain, transforming the listener / dancer's mood for the better. But it's not only her vocal, the instrumental guitar break is in a class of it own, as it bridges the song so seamlessly as the second part of her despair is about to be poured upon you.
Dancing to Soul is a personal inner expression, that this 45 triggers so easily, you feel her torture, you sense her recovery and you feel elated. This is 60's girl Northern Soul at it's most galvanizing..
For all the brilliance of "I'm Catching On " the flipside is so nearly as captivating.. another two for the price of one, winner that nobody will ever tire of hearing "I'm Catching On"... if they ever do .. just flip it over, you will have a few running to the turntables asking "What's this ?"
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, immaculate vinyl that only reveals the merest hairline when angled in the light. a beautifully coveted copy.
Professionals
That's Why I Love You / Did My Baby Call
Groove City : 101 (45s)
Indisputably one of the greatest, most influential Northern Soul 45s ever committed to vinyl, both sides administering spine-tingling vocal group Northern Soul at its rarest and finest. A "forever" disc, a record that near all NS collectors cannot be tempted to ever part with.
A timeless treasure of the highest calibre, classic giving up two killer sides coupled with unrivaled reputation and desirability.
It is of course one of the most-fabulous of Northern soul double-siders of all time. .
Act accordingly...
.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, no writing, stickers or stains, two minuscule identity pinpricks, administered by "Blue Max" legendary "Catacombs" DJ. strong clean vinyl reveals only minuscule surface hairlines when angled under direct light. Occasional soft background tick or pop all lost in the all powerful production and the tsunami of the ultimate vocal harmony vocalization.
Soulful Strutters
Let Your Feelings Go / How Happy We Will Be
Strut : S-102 (45s)
Killer edgy funk infused Northern Soul dancefloor fuel of the rarest kind;
An insistent cocktail of soaring razor-sharp strings, cradle a gravel-coated lead vocal, propelled by rapid jangling guitar riffs; then brilliantly soften and lifted by heavenly girl-group choruses. Bring in a rapid torrent of bongo and cow-bell percussion and the complexes of this awesome production hits its zenith. The finale mix of sharped strings, slicing through that driving bongo and cow-bell leaves you aching for more of this highly inventive dancer
This talented North Carolina 8 man gathering who released 3 fabulous 45s between 1972 and '76 this one being their most wanted and hardest to capture.
Crowd lifting, rare 70's dance soul at its most essential.
The flipside is an exquisite song also, tight harmony stroller backed by considerate musicianship and rich girl-group vocals cradling an impressive lead voice.
Two differing but equally impressive sides.
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl reveals only the merest fine soft hairlines when angled under light - fabulous copy
Parliaments
Heart Trouble / That Was My Girl
Golden World : GW 46 (45s)
Golden World 46 perfectly frames this opening statement.
Composing and producing these two Northern Soul killers was just the tip of their heart-melting soul iceberg. This another "Heart Trouble / That Was My Girl " is another |"Geo-Si-Mik" session with Sidney, George and Mike Terry crafting two real winners, incorporating a subtle doo-wop bass voice into the mix. Adding another layer to an already perfect production; listen carefully to hear the goose-pimple inducing insertions of genius "Geo-Si-Mik" enhancement by just that solitary nonchalant doo-wah.
It matters not which side you play on this drastically under-exposed NS oldie, the result is the same - joyous vocal group Northern Soul consumes your senses.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL! and some
Condition Report
Two perfect labels - stunning unblemished mint minus vinyl - a near pristine copy
Velvelettes
Lonely Lonely Girl Am I / I'm The Exception To The Rule
Tamla Motown : TMG 521 (45s)
standout condition.
One for the British collector who cannot resist the lure of near perfection. Especially if it is one of the finest Motown creations adopted by the Northern Soul scene; a classic for decades, right from its debut at The Twisted Wheel through to last weekend, when we are pretty certain, this anthem rang out through the various NS gatherings across the land.
Some classics never fade away, this one truly endures. Mainly because the creator Norman Whitfield conjures up a Whitfield signature, full orchestra production of massive presence. A crowded string tsunami, pummeling-percussion, peppered with hard-blown horns. Not to mention those oh-so-sweet Velvelettes vocals. A group that went seemingly under-appreciated by the Motown executives who astonishingly deprived the girls of their much deserved album. That would have undoubtedly have dulled some of The Supremes prestige as many Motown scholars feel The Velvelettes were vocally superior and infinitely more fluid in the harmonies.
This recording goes some way in strengthening that argument, as Norman Whitfield shepherds the trio through intricate, pacey but crystal clear phases, whilst riding the most powerful of productions...Originally issued as a flipside, is a studio session that certainly underscores their vocal prowess. The wonderful ballad flipside "I'm The Exception To The Rule" also magnificently recorded by The Temptations, again showcases their impeccable close harmony expertise.
Only the powers at Motown knows why these ladies were limited to only 5 singles and denied an album release... but before you today is their rarest 45 best-loved 45 in immaculate clean condition.
Condition Report
two clean labels, other than a minuscule soft graze just left o the a-side logo, this my not show on the file images, but we can see it when angled in the light, otherwise perfect. 4 prong centre intact. (see images) This offering is near flawless. Full gloss, mint minus vinyl, still housed in original birth-sleeve. Looks stunning, sounds immaculate, plays perfect.
Art Freeman
Slipping Around ( With You ) / Can't Get You Out Of My Mind
Fame : FM10714 test press (45s)
Check out the unique rich clean sound, you will only experience from a virginal master-plate test press. High fidelity that can only be replicated from the brand new "chaste" stamper provides.
A Northern Soul Muscle Shoals crafted classic that has been reverberating across through the temples of Northern Soul since 1966, when British soul fans, were fortunate enough for British Polydor to launch it on the UK red Atlantic label. Of course it became an instant Twisted Wheel and beyond, favourite. Especially when it was swiftly deleted becoming an vinyl diggers grail almost overnight.
The genius of the Dan Penn & Andrew Spooner Oldham partnership, driven by the world-famous Fame studio band makes for soul-dancefloor obliteration.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL in the finest possible condition, giving up unparalleled fidelity and presented in by far its rarest format!
Better sound quality cannot not be achieve finer fidelity than the first-off-the-masterplate - TEST PRESS
Check out the unique rich clean sound, you will only experience from a virginal master-plate test press. High fidelity that can only be replicated from the brand new "chaste" stamper provide.
A Northern Soul Muscle Shoals crafted classic that has been reverberating across through the temples of Northern Soul since 1966, when British soul fans, were fortunate enough for British Polydor to launch it on the UK red Atlantic label. Of course it became an instant Twisted Wheel and beyond, favourite. Especially when it was swiftly deleted becoming an vinyl diggers grail almost overnight.
The genius of the Dan Penn & Andrew Spooner Oldham partnership, driven by the world-famous Fame studio band makes for soul-dancefloor obliteration.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL in the finest possible condition, giving up unparalleled fidelity and presented in by far its rarest format!
Condition Report
Clean test press labels, rubber stamped a-side / flipside untitled (see images). Spectacular vinyl with hardly blemish or hairline, strong mint minus throughout, house in Atlantic / Atco company sleeve.
Marv Johnson
Baby I WANT You (2:40) / blank
Hitsville: 10" acetate GPNM 3228 - NH1 (10")
First title may have been a "in-house" typo has Marvin never sings "Want You" but it is certainly a different mix the obscured master reads # GPNM 3228 - NH1 (we think)
During October 1965 Marv Johnson recorded "Baby I Want You" a fabulous Clarence Paul and Luval "Morris" Broadnax session producing a magnificent classic style Motown/Northern Soul, that was then shelved for over 5 months.
Coming back to it later Ivy Jo Hunter & William "Mickey" Steveson revamped the mix and re-titling it to "I Miss You Baby (How I Miss You)", then releasing it on Gordy 7051 in March 1966; but it failed to make an impact on the charts. Today the Gordy 7051 is no simple find.
When Marv Johnson's 1969 release "I'll Pick a Rose For My Rose, charted in the UK, triggering an album release. EMI seemed stuck on what to follow up Marv's unexpected success with. They chose the 1966 "I Miss You Baby (How I Miss You)" a track from the album. Which followed "I'll Pick a Rose For My Rose" into the hearts of the British teenager. A huge Youth Club hit and now considered a Motown dance classic in the UK.
What was never heard, or known to exist was the FIRST version from October 1965, not issued anywhere at the time. So hear it now..
For fans of unissued Motown, quirky historical facts, and those different mixes within Motown's obsession for perfectness, here is a slightly rawer take on this truly great song. I love the crystal clear male choruses and twangy guitar, carrying Marvin's upfront vocal.
Before you today is which was heading to be re-coated with fresh liquid acetate, to be cut over again by a hot needle that undoubtable caused the destruction of 100's of rejected Motown sessions. This one escaped the re-coat, and thank heaven's it did. Otherwise this piece of Motown and it's story would have been lost for ever.
We love this original 1st. take, we love the story.. eye and ear candy for those of you dedicated to Motown and it's rarities. Note this disc still sits in the original Transco birth-sleeve.
Condition Report
RECOAT RECOAT RECOAT RECOAT in marker across a label. Mint minus surface strong rich lacquer, no hairlines, cracks, lift or chips. A superb glossy finish
Baba Dise / Sensations
Wanted / I'll Always Love You
Gas: 118 (45s)
1969 Skinhead Reggae from Hopeton Reid under one of his several aliases, guided by the creative Winston Riley. Between them they craft an unusually catchy dance groove, the deliberately simplistic arrangement is peppered with Hopeton's squeals, shouts and chants. Penny-whistle decoration, blends in with a saxophone, sweeping percussion brushes across the whole arrangement, winning your undivided attention. Then addiction takes over, your hooked, soon requiring another hit of Winston Riley's off-the-wall-production.
Flip it over for cheeky but nice bit of plagiarism; Copying Ivy Joe Hunter & Mickey Stevenson's composition The Spinners hit with at Motown and The Gladiators wowed the Mods in the UK with the same year.
A strong version of The Spinners Motown classic, like The Gladiators on Direction steer away from Reggae toward a straight Soul version.
The Sensation take on this great song, they credit themselves as being the writers, naughty but forgivable as "I'll Always Love You" is again given the respect it deserves, giving up a captivating version.
Two great sides, check out the sound file because the vinyl has a few marks.
Condition Report
Vinyl reveal multiple light surface marks, occasional tick but the music wins through with no issues, listen to the exact sound-file lifted directly off this disc. . The a-side label has a "peer" off the centrepiece that we imagine has bubbled up and some point in it's life, leaving black paper backing in it's place. Flipside label is clean, no writing, stains, tears or stickers.
Teddy Randazzo
You Don't Need A Heart / As Long As I Live
DCP: DCP 1134 DJ (45s)
The consummate master of the the New York Big Production, perfectly pausing that calming slow-down before the big explosion lift-off of soaring horns, zipping strings, celestial girls, crashing cymbals and booming brass. The perfect platform for his silky Brooklyn-brogue and Italian charm to glide right into the very heart of the Northern Soul dancefloor.
Currently sleeping after it's Northern Soul peak earlier this century, but now starting to break the surface again, as NS quality of this calibre will never snooze for too long. A Randazzo awakening is perched and ready its second, or third coming, as DJ exposure has never waivered . Also the DCP promo being a tempting vinyl-vista; especially as this tune has escaped any significant bootlegging over the years. Just a brief "Stardust" label outing, a low-value reissue imprint, few if any DJ's would be blatant enough to disgrace their turntables with.
Before you today is the 1965 promo, an exceptional gleaming condition copy of this superior "Big City" beater
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels, full gloss vinyl Mint minus vinyl housed in the elusive original DCP company sleeve
Cornel Campbell
I'm Still Waiting / Version
Studio One : DSR 9140 (45s)
This most soulful of Jamaican productions. Essentially a sweet glider fully harmonised production, backed with a cooing vocal group seamlessly sailing along sprinkling its infectious charms as it seeps into you. This will draw interest from group vocal fans, as well as dedicated Reggae fans. Cornel's velvet falsetto vocal reaching out, as it glides over and through the cruising arrangement creating one of the classiest dancer of its era.
Just total gorgeousness...
Condition Report
Two clean labels full gloss mint minus vinyl, just discovered the finest tight hairline the lead in deawax, NOT affecting anything at all.
Arnold Corns
Hang On To Yourself / same:
Mooncrest : MOON 25 DJ (45s)
Radio station RARE 1971 Bowie promo from 17th. May 1974 in MANSHIP MINT condition.
The Arnold Corns were a band formed by David Bowie during 1971 this 45 being one of only two releases they had for this short lived Soho based UK label. Who were just starting to specialize in up and coming Rock bands
David Bowie wrote and produced both sides of this failed single, sang vocals and played guitar. It also marked a strengthening of the Bowie / Mick Ronson relationship as they journeyed towards the groundbreaking Bowie period of "Spiders From Mars" & "Ziggy Stardust" with The Arnold Corns project, the springboard for Bowie’s inventive side to coming to fruition.
Bowie took inspiration from Pink Floyd for this recording but shimmers with Bowie characteristics, being an important crossroads in the birth of "Spiders" & "Ziggy" and ultimately leading to Bowie's worldwide success.
As Bowie mania becomes even stronger, records relating to his early development are becoming increasing difficult to secure.. as wise vinyl investors swoop on every opportunity..
This immaculate promo is the attempt by B&C Records to cash in on Bowie RCA success, that attempt miserably failed, leaving this 45 as a very hard to acquire Bowie British artefact.
Condition Report
MANSHIP MINT a flawless example of rare Bowie. Two unblemished PROMO labels, the fully intact 4 prong clean centerpiece, a soft spindle trail on the flipside only, suggesting only the a-side has received a solitary play.no sign of spindle trails on the a-side. Vinyl is immaculate MINT. Check out the impressive double sound file lifted straight from this rare disc.
Clash
Should I Stay Or Should I Go / Straight To Hell
Epic : ES 807 Australia (45s)
Near perfect, extremely elusive in this condition
Condition Report
Two perfect labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl, just a few sparse blemishes can be detected when angled under direct light, beautifully housed in its original birth sleeve.
Quotations
I Don't Have To Worry / It Can Happen To You
DiVenus : DV 107 (7")
A homogenized Northern Soul winner is once again on the lips of collectors and dancers alike.
The prosperous partnership of David Blake & Phil Medley again ticks all the same boxes that guided The Appreciations through their magnificent vocal-group Northern Soul dancer "It's Better The Cry". The pair transfer that same talent to this gifted vocal-group from Massachusetts. as lead vocalist Carl Williams sits with David Blake to compose two fabulous group-harmony winners.
We lead with the upbeat Northern Soul with a searing lead vocal, supported by high pitch choruses of "I Got You" subtle horns and drumming embroider the background leading up to forceful brass break peppered with crashing cymbals. Truly beautiful Northern Soul from New England with added guidance from a couple of talented New Yorkers. .
The flipside is an utterly stunning floater showcasing this Springfield's group's delicious application of tight harmonies. Fred Guess, Jimmie Wilson, Carl Williams send out a silky message in a style soon to be adopted by The Chi-Lites, Dramatics etc. This is super-classy top-of-the-class serving of Sweet Soul, is a few years before its time.
Two perfect archive condition labels, full gloss vinyl revealing only a few soft birth-sleeve blemishes when angled in the light.
NO wonder there's been an enthusiastic buzz building up around the world about this great harmony two-sider.
This offering is a fabulous play perfect condition hitting a bulleyes with not one but two highly sought-after rare soul styles.
Condition Report
Stunning mint minus archive condition, perfect labels, in "as good as it gets" state of perfectness.
Locations
Mister Diamond Man / He's Gone
Ron Paul : 101 (45s)
Powerful vocal-group Northern Soul, a Ronald Davis's D.I.Y. project from the streets of the Motor City is to be added to Davis's impressive list of Northern Soul contributions which include writing for Danny Woods, Gino Washington, Yvonne Vernee, Theresa Lindsey to name a few.
On this rarity instead of his usual Correc-tone, Sonbert or Jack Pot outlet he goes it alone, with his own label "Ron Paul" constructing two killer Northern Soul dancers of differing styles, pressed we believe in L.A. the only and first copy I've ever found in the wild was discovered in Los Angeles. .
So rare, our first copy of only 4 we've ever had in stock came our way as an unknown in the very early 80's, we were very impressed with it, snapped up by a prominent NS DJ (forgotten who), but from those humble beginnings the reputation of "The Locations" has deservedly grown into "Rarest Of The Rare" cult status, as the ingredients for Northern Soul greatness are there in abundance, again severe rarer the only obstacle depriving the masses from hearing its instantly motivation qualities.
Today we are so pleased to be able to present it to a larger audience, as the opening guitar invites you into a wonderfully rich make vocal-group harmony dancer. It's raw appeal straight from the streets, delightfully rough edges of the music, the perfect platform for the smoother voices to cut into, seamless they soar into each other's passion. Real-deal D.I.Y. Northern Soul shimmering with everything we adore about these "back-room" performances. Not only a great dancer, but also only the preserve of very few NS DJs who have sought to own the rarest and the best!
Flip it over, not quite as instant as "Diamond Man ", but still drenched in authentic 60's Detroit emotion, as advisory male harmony intertwines as they tell her "He's Gone" forgot your past and stay by my side. Sound advise convincingly delivered by an accomplish team of extremely soulful hopefuls.
Two killer sides on one unicorn-rare 45 with now a huge following!
Condition Report
The finest condition copy we've ever encountered, two bright clean yellow labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl reveals the merest soft surface blemishes when angled under light, plays perfect (listen)
Casualeers
Dance, Dance, Dance / There's Something About This Girl
Roulette : R-4722 DJ (45s)
After 4 hours navigating northwards through wet country roads, the then slow as hell A50 morphed into M6 congestion, we eventually pull into the sunken car park opposite the imposing sight of Wigan Casino. Full of equally dilapidated 850cc Minis, Hillman Imps, Morris Minors and the occasional Ford Cortina for the well-heeled soulboy, that had travelled fully loaded with young buzzing Northern Soul disciples from all corners of the British Isles.
On arrival though we always let out a sigh of frustration, on a filthy cold wet winter's evening; a predictable 4 person wide queue trails to the right of the door, strung out all the way along the side of the dancehall.
It's gonna take some time to get in, but the impatient line is babbling with a chattering chorus of dialects from right across the country. Manc, Geordie, Brummy, Welsh, Scotch, Norfolk, Cockney, Gloucestershire even excited vocal tones from Cornwall and more make up a cocktail of jabbering amphetamine-fuelled nonsense. As the music seeped through those thick walls, the chilly Lancashire wind and drizzle blew through your hair..
"No Pushing At The Back" was now the all too familiar doorman mantra, no bugger ever took any notice, the queue swayed backward and forward, side to side. At last! You were through the door, the music now louder, the crush was still happening at the counter, you throw the entrance fee down, and you scurry through the last obstacle and you're IN!! You know you're inside because the heat and steam hits you simultaneously; as The Casualeers - Dance, Dance, Dance - assaults your senses and lifts you higher than high.
THE NORTHERN SOUL EXPERIENCE you had planned with your mates all week, a ritual that began at 12 o'clock in The White Lion Pub, Nottingham Street, Melton Mowbray was now live!
The buzz is immense, the atmosphere is goosebump-inducing, the music is loud and frantic and the charge of human energy takes your breath away. It was the nationwide camaraderie, the single common cause that herded all these young-guns together in one place. Truly inspiring music that only 6 years earlier the whole world had overlooked, these discarded 45's had been resuscitated, bringing a new life, a fresh sense of being to British kids who had been force-fed a diet of shit British pop from the BBC. From Showaddywaddy, Mud, The Sweet, Paper Lace, David Essex, The Rubettes etc .
This 45 and hundreds more like it, treated the Wigan congregation to indelible wonder-years we shall never forget.
Click the soundfile to be catapulted back half a century to the best of times and the best of friends.
FOOTNOTE. Talking of discarded records, the flipside "There's Something About This Girl" is one of the finest "overlooked" Big City Beaters you could possibly want to hear...
Condition Report
Small red marker signature on the a-side label, light age browning on flipside promo label (see images) Both sides of the vinyl reveals scattered light surface marks NOT affecting play crisp and clean. both sides play clean (listen)
Dusty Wilson
Can't Do Without You / Life Not Worth Living
Soundcraft : 7" acetate (45s)
It's embyonic form - so collectable.
Do not overlook the fabulously slick, pleading vocal-group ballad on the flipside
Condition Report
Two clean labels, credits neatly written in pencil, very clean unblemished direct cut lacquer, plays fabulous. NO hairlines, chips, lift, or cracks in the surface. Very clean copy indeed.
Sound System featuring Owen Gray
Take Me Serious / You Don't Know Like I Know
EMIDISC: acetate 1965 (45s)
Stevens compiled and annotated compilations of the American records he played, particularly for EMI. Writing the ground breaking Music Paper profiles of such R&B musicians as Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf in the Record Mirror, catching the attention of Island Records Chris Blackwell .Before joining "Blackwell" at Island to be given the enviable job running the SUE label on the back of his impeccable forward-thinking taste and vast knowledge.
The rest is history, with the SUE label 45s and albums still today being the most treasured of all 60's British vinyl
Before you today is an early sample of their embryonic relationship that covered Prince Harold's stomper by Prince & Princess "Take Me Serious" and Sam & Dave's current MOD monster "You Don't Know Like I Know"
Sadly Guy died at just 38 years of age from an overdose whilst fighting alcohol addiction, but his legend lives on as the trailblazing Soho MOD DJ who brought the SUE label to the British black-music fan. His final legacy being the producer of The Clash's brilliant "London Calling" LP.
Condition Report
Clean typeset "Take Me Serious" label, flipside label is blank fine clean acetate, with rich, full unblemished lacquer.<br /> <br />
Brian Auger Trinity
Green Onions / blank
Emidisc: 7" acetate (45s)
An authentic September 1965 EMI studio 7" acetate cut of Brian Auger and his Trinity's reworking of the Hammond organ Memphis instrumental anthem from Booker T. Jones; that changed the face of British "MOD" with in 1962. As the allnight Jazz club scene took another step towards the R&B takeover.
Auger's energy injects a whole new lease of life into this soundtrack of British MOD, into the old classic that so many artists have covered, most of them failing to impress. But this rip-roaring "Green Onions" attack from the King Of Keyboard instrumentals is another story.
A driving force of relentless keyboard fingering, embellished with scything lightning bolt "Fuzz Guitar" an insane torrential jazz piano downpour, elevates this session way out into another stratosphere of cover versions. This deconstruction of "Green Onions" really is really something "else"
Label just reads AUGER - GREEN ONIONS -
We believe is one-of- a-kind direct cut in preparation for the Columbia DB 7715 - this 7" acetate is a fabulous MOD collectors item, as well as being a most fabulous version. Which we had hesitation at relisting again after a failed auction win payment back 2021.
Condition Report
A solitary clean handwritten EMIDISC label, acetate lacquer has strong gloss revealing only non intrusive soft storage hairlines. Plays superb!
Curtis Johnson
If You Need Love / I've Got To Get Away From You
Whurley Burley: 201 (45s)
The vocally gifted Curtis former lead singer od The Sonics on White Cliffs, but only released two solo 45's This double beauty, also crept out in only minimal press on Hot Line but we have never had or seen a copy, its rarity is extreme. Here is the almost as ghost like Whurley Burley 201
Condition Report
Two clean labels, bright unmarked vinyl, shows some soft sleeve storage fogging NOT affecting play. Both sides play through perfectly.
Artistics
Girl I Need You / I'm Glad I Met You
Coral : Q.72492 DJ (45s)
They easily rank in the Top 10 most productive male Soul vocal-groups of all time! Their output of essential Northern Soul is quite staggering.. but what would you expect, when this accomplish gathering were mentored by the likes of Carl Davis, Gerald Sims, Sonny Sanders & Barrett Strong, everything was gonna be assured stand-out vocal-group soul.
This 1967 recording, was undeniably way-ahead of it's time, both sides giving up seamless Northern Soul vocal-group dancers of the very highest calibre. It was of course a minor R&B hit for them, sitting just outside the top 20 for several weeks, not a super rare 45 od USA Brunswick maybe, but as a blue & silver UK promo it the treasure of a life-time.
But what is certainly very scarce, is to find this disc in impeccable condition. Serious UK label collectors will be nodding when we say they invariably reject any disc with label flaws, 4 prong centre removed, writing on the label, and most will not buy anything below EX + But to acquire two clean promo labels, strong gloss mint minus vinyl, still housed in the seldom seen birth sleeve (robust brown grainy finished sleeve) is a completeness that is incredibly problematic to acquire.
This copy is the finest example we have seen in decades.. of loving both sides of this classic Northern Soul creation from Chicago's foremost music-makers.
Two classic sides in their most wanted least seen rich-blue Demo clothes.
Condition Report
Two clean blue promo labels with the full length "A" beckoning your attention, 4 prong centre intact, full gloss mint minus vinyl revealing only the merest soft sleeve contact blemishes when angled in the light. both sides play flawless - listen.
Rudy Mills / Bobby Ellis
A Long Story / Now We Know
Island : WI 3092 (45s)
Rudy Mills & Derrick Harriott collaboration, Rudy co-written with Derrick producing from his HQ at Derrick's One Stop 125 King Street, Kingston, Jamaica. Harriotts summons up a simplistic but highly effective horn section pumping up the landscape holding Rudy's long held vocal notes. Producing a sense of the music coming from above, hanging aloft in at atmospheric state of dance.
Flip it over Derrick conducts Bobby Ellis and the Desmond Miles Seven on an effective brass instrumental journey, peppered with almost flippant piano notes and drum rimshots, has trombones, saxophone, trumpets all bounce off each others audacious mingling. Drenched in feigned naivety; attempting and pulling off a simple-is-genius jam-session that you will find yourself playing many more times than once. Mission accomplish Bobby Ellis...
Presented here on the seldom seen 1966 UK press on the highly sought after red & whit Island imprint in fine clean condition.
Condition Report
a minuscule initial B.A. on flipside label 4 prong centre, other otherwise two clean labels, 4 prong centre intact. (see images). Vinyl vinyl carries good gloss, just a few soft hairlines, listen occasional soft tick o pop. Not distracting from the music. An unusually clean copy.
Case Of Tyme
Manifesto / Some Call It Love
Legend : L-1001 styrene first press (45s)
This is of course the authentic FIRST press and by far it's rarest most desirable incarnation, and the least confusing to authenticate. Styrene, press green label, is the FIRST press original - simples really..
A disc that offers up the most motivating display of saxophone insanity ever heard on the Northern Soul dancefloor triggering a flood of vivid wonder-year flashbacks as you somewhat embarrassingly remember the all-niter's of the day highlights, you and your mates doing the jubilant, two arm "black power" salute as the chorus "MANIFESTO" was replaced by a bellowing chorus of "SHOP AT TESCO'S!" completely in time with that psychotic saxophonist.
What fun that was.. for the usually very serious Northern Soul dancefloor... always so respectful of their music...
Today I'm singing along with the nearly as motivating "Some Called It Love" unable to find a supermarket slogan replacement..
When it comes to acquiring the real-deal Northern Soul originals wearing their rarest original clothes, this very first press of a timeless Wigan Casino anthem that seldom surfaces for air.
This attitude filled Chicago born, gives up just the greatest display of saxophone insanity ever committed to vinyl, inspiring Northern Soul, with vivid wonder-years flashbacks fully guaranteed.
But a true collectors-piece surrounded by much confusion fo the GREEN label, having been reissued, bootlegged, counterfeited in so many forms. So here an opportunity to clear the fog surround this rarity's authenticity, a brief table below may help.
first press - is the styrene green label Legend L-1001 - here before you here today.
counterfeit is the vinyl green label Legend L-1001 black vinyl - Bay Area, California born
counterfeit is the vinyl green label Legend L-1001 blue vinyl - Bay Area, California born
counterfeit is the vinyl green label Legend L-1001 - red vinyl Bay Area, California born
counterfeit is the vinyl green label Legend L-1001 multi-coloured vinyl - Bay Area, California born
The joint impeccable work of Bod Catteneo & aided by the master-craftsmen of record replicas Henry Mariano
We'll document the other yellow label James Lewis credit "Manifesto" original, counterfeits and reissues another day..
When I said authentication confusing, that was an understatement...Today in the sweltering climate of OVO only events, this first press listing is the ONLY TRUE original. It turns up for sale so very rarely, especially in this exceptional Mint minus condition..
So if you agree with and adhere to OVO guidelines and want to own the finest Northern Soul classics in the best possible condition .. do not pass this NS tsunami by..
Two flawless labels, mint minus playing surfaces are unblemished. a fabulous example of one of Northern Soul's most elusive FIRST PRESS originals.
PS it is now time to take notice of the almost as brilliant flipside "Some Call It Love"
Condition Report
Two near perfect labels, no fade or blemishes. Styrene is beautifully near mint. As good as it gets!
M.V.P.s
Turnin' My Heartbeat Up / same: 2:16 mono version
Buddah : BDA 262 DJ (45s)
So very little we can say that will elevate this timeless classic any higher..
So let's talk about the most important aspect of this listing is: It is NOT a record that has wandered through the traumatic Northern Soul DJ circuit since the mid-70's. As you can hear from the sound file provided this copy play beautifully clean No turntable or stylus fatigue that unfortunately plagues the veteran copies that have resided in the United Kingdom for decades.
Fresh, clean and ready for ownership to those of you dedicated to owning the Top NS anthems in the finest possible condition.
Mono side is Mint minus, stereo side is Ex +. Both promo labels are completely flawless.
Condition Report
Please note: All copies of this 45 reveal a masterplate pressing hairline weld from tyhe stamper, this is NOT a hairline crack, it is on every copy that left the pressing plant. This disc is visually and audibly mint minus still housed in birth-sleeve - a beautiful copy.
Jimmy Church
Thinking About The Good Times / Shadow Of Another Man's Love
Peachtree: 101 (45s)
This the first record for the label, a driving this Northern Soul Juggernaut, written by Jimmy himself. With William Bell injecting the level of muscular brass that had surrounded him every day he visited 926 E. McLemore Ave Memphis, Tennessee 38106. Even compared to the roster that Stax Records boasted few male vocals as soulful as Jimmy delivered.
This is proper full throttle, foot-to-floor, fearsome Northern Soul... stand back, buckle up, and unleash Jimmy Church and the torrential tsunami of horns William Bell summons up, the combination is frightening.
With the fabulous bonus of a Robert S. Riley Deep Soul pleader sitting on the flipside, especially written for "Jimmy Church's" standout beseeching style of heart-wrenching "Deep" that stays with you, long after the 2:30 mins draws to an end.
Two exceptional street-level recordings of proper rare soul, offering the best thumping Northern Soul with
Condition Report
Two clean labels have some soft storage wear but free of stickers, writing or any other discernable flaws. Vinyl reveals surface marks, visually vg but those blaring horns and Jimmy's rasping vocal mask any background tocks.
Sequins
He's A Flirt / That Boy
Renfro : 113 (45s)
The L. A. girl group soul dance sound of the spring 1966 an inspired collaboration between three Californian Soul music alchemists; Anthony Renfro, Arthur Wright and Ronald Saunders conjure up two proper real-deal girl group Northern Soul movers, on their quest to replicate the Motown sound on the West Coast.
No matter which side you drop the arm on, explosive girl group exuberance delivers the power to sideswipe your senses.
Surprisingly all the effort from a trio of highly accomplished studio magicians, sales were beyond disappointing, making this notoriously rare 45 always been near impossible to acquire. Even though both sides encapsulate the very essence of the 1966 California upbeat girl group style, a genre totally dominated by the East Coast girls for almost a decade. This example of distilled Northern Soul sold absolutely nothing, even though it had been made more visible by The Blossoms, The Mirettes, The Belles, Ikettes etc.
We repeat before you today is proper real-deal girl group Northern Soul - twice over! Listen now to elevate your day…with two rarest of the rare girl-gathering soul dance sessions of immense importance.
Condition Report
Strong full gloss vinyl, reveals some fine soft sleeve storage blemishes under light, as you can hear it plays loud , clean and true.
Roy Hamilton
Reach Out For Me / The Impossible Dream
RCA : 47-6241 DJ (45s)
Unicorn rare! Utterly legendary, the mythical - 1966 Philippines ONLY RCA promo of one of Roy's finest moments in the studio.
Spine-tingling on every level of Northern Soul collecting.
First time in my life I've had the pleasure of as 1966 original promo - and what a pleasure it is.
A vocal that sits in everybody's top five male soul singers on the planet - with his rarest 45.
NOTE RCA changed their "47" series label colouring from black to orange in 1968. Explaining why Jamaica and Philippines reissued some orange stereo Roy material in homage to his tragic in 1969.
Condition Report
red pen i.d. on flipside label, otherwise two clean promo labels, just faint signs of storage age (see images) vinyl reveals multiple light surface hairlines when angled under direct light. The stylus picks up occasional light ticks that are devoured by Roy's gargantuan vocal...
Cody Marshall
The Thought Of Loving You / Harmony
Sound Judgement: CM 1975 (45s)
Actually featuring in his very last DJ set at the very last Wigan Casino night in September 1981.
This seriously rare disc underlines just how forward thinking Richard Searling turntable choices were, in comparison to his Wigan Casino teammates. This string driven Joe Renzetti "Lou Rawls" inspired creation, written by the fabled John Madara right hand man David White. This joyous mover was the perfect partner for Ben E. Troy - I Wanna Give Y9ou Tomorrow" at the time but a 1000's of times rarer, of course.
Check out it's uplifting qualities and be wafted back to that famous night the "Casino" closed; this was perhaps the rarest record played on that fabled evening. Certainly hardly a copy has surfaced over the last 40 years. Vocally rich and dead right for the mood of 1981 as Northern Soul embrace modern rare soul.
Rarest Of The Rare NS and saturated in everything the "Casino Cult" had grown to love from Richard's divisively imaginative sets. Peppered with rarities hardly anyone else knew the true identity of.
Condition Report
Two bright clean labels, full gloss mint minus labels. Top copy<br />
Tymes
Here She Comes / Malibu
Cameo Parkway: P.924 (45s)
The Tymes take you on an unforgettable journey into Philadelphia vocal-group Soul, an addictive song that became a huge dancefloor favourite, when the creative powers of Billy Jackson & Jimmy Winer debuted themselves on the then fledgling Northern Soul scene.
Five Philly boys, who started to find considerable local and some national hits once they came under the guidance of Jackson & Wisner with Parkway keyboard session man, Roy Straigis assisting with the productions. But "Here She Comes" was not one of their biggest success, in the USA with it selling virtually nothing in Great Britain. It remains to one of British collecting's frustrating 45's to acquire.
I can't hide my bias, as this classic club-sound, still today remains one of my all-time most-esteemed dance tunes. Taking their success from "So Much In Love" and beefing up that recipe into a classy Northern Soul dancer. Enthusiastic, perfectly-timed handclaps, sprinkled with ringing vibes, provide the perfect backdrop for the team of rich-vocals to glide through. Undoubtedly one of the great vocal-group harmony gatherings of the 60's..with their best-loved NS creation.
Presented here is the rare 1965 UK copy, in fine clean condition, a serious British collector's trophy, so very hard to find.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong centre intact, fine clean vinyl reveals some soft hairlines when angled in the light, as you can hear both sides play crisp and clean
Betty O'Brien
She'll Be Gone / Love Oh Love
Liberty : Liberty F-55365 west coast (45s)
here's a very seldom encountered, incredibly gorgeous and super rare West Coast August 1961 black stock copy.
The format that dispels all the uncertainty that the promo counterfeit presents when seen on the market. The "Daly City Bob" convincing infamous counterfeit, that has over the years fooled a few buyers with it's attention to detail. The level of accuracy, that has bestowed belated acclaim on those top-quality Henry Mariano & Bob Catteneo the greatest of 45 doppelgangers. Circa 1976 it was repressed in promo form, to meet the huge demand of the Belgium Popcorn market. Long, long before any DJ on the British Northern Soul scene thought it suitable for the NS clubs.
But it seems fitting that everything "Popcorn" affiliated is sooner or later adopted by the British All-niter scene. Betty O'Brien is another in a long line of standout 60's dance tunes to be ferried across the North Sea into the very heart of Northern Soul. At it's early rise with the Northern Soul circuit, it was sadly too often, that Belgium counterfeit that changed hands for large sums.
Today thankfully the NS collector and DJs are so much more aware.
To acquire this slab of New York Sister attitude, in its rarest form is irresistible. A mountain of a tune crafted by the trusty hand of Bert Keyes, written by the prolific wife of Bob Johnston and Paul Williams; an authentic ORIGINAL 1961 press is the most prestigious way to own it. Especially as the "counterfeit" is no cheap purchase, a record that commands tidy sums also, notably in green or multi-coloured vinyl that Bob and Henry playfully pressed, back in their heyday, very pretty but not the real-thing!
Here is the real thing, sound quality is crisp and clean, both labels are clean, vinyl is near perfect.
Click the soundfile and prepare to be blown away by "Popcorn" at its most motivating.
Condition Report
Two perfect black issue labels, impeccable full gloss mint minus vinyl still housed in it birth sleeve
Jimi Hendrix Experience
All Along The Watchtower / Long Hot Summer Night
Track Record : 604025 3 prong (45s)
Full gloss vinyl, revealing only the merest soft sleeve storage hairlines when angled in the light, two totally clean labels, bright crisp silver text, 3 prong centre intact.
Matrix details
Matrix / Runout Side 'A' deadwax 604025 A ^ 1 420 11 2
Matrix / Runout Side 'B' deadwax 604025 B ^ 1 420 11 1
A 45, as you will already be aware, is beyond challenging to find clean near perfect, this copy is in an exceptionally clean state.
Condition Report
Full gloss vinyl, revealing only the merest soft sleeve storage hairlines when angled in the light, two totally clean labels, bright crisp silver text, 3 prong centre intact. Still housed in birth sleeve. strong excellent plus throughout. <br /> <br />
Little Stevie Wonder / Zoot Money & His Big Roll Band
1966 Flyer 4 Day Event / Plaza Dance & Social Club, Rookery Road, Handsworth, Birmingham / Two colour 18.25 cm wide 20.7 cm long flyer
PLAZA DANCE CLUB: 28/01/jan (SLEEVES)
The weekend started on the Friday with the 5 man Brumbeat Band "The Cock-A-Hoops" featuring Steve Dolan, Mike Dolan, who two years later, were the foundation of Prog Rock Band "Hard Meat" on Island Records.
Star attraction is top Tamla Motown artist billed as ***LITTLE STEVIE WONDER*** - Uptight (Everything Is Alright) - on a short visit to Europe.
Next night on the Sunday is top MOD Band ***ZOOT MONEY & HIS BIG ROLL BAND - performing their scheduled new release "It Should Have Been Me" the powerful Norman Whitfield song written for Kim Weston. But for Zoot and his boys Columbia never released it on 45 or Album. A fine piece of performance MOD history.
It is a record den "wall-hanger" most likely unique, as very few if any, would have been salvaged from the night.
Condition Report
3 small staple holes, left from where it had been retrieved from wall in the club. Otherwise in bright three colour condition - see image - Coincidentally just a fraction larger than a 7" single with sleeve.
Honey and the Bees
Two Can Play The Same Game / Inside O' Me
Academy : 114 (45s)
Crafted by the same team that bestowed the Northern Soul scene with "Patti & The Emblems - I'm Gonna Love You A Long, Long Time - a Northern Soul emblematic anthem!
This disc from the same pairing of Leroy Lovett and Frank Bendinelli is significantly rarer of course and confusingly NOT the same group of girls who successfully recorded on Arctic/ Josie etc. nor indeed the girls who recorded for Bradford Boobis and Neil Nephew during the New York Girl-Group explosion in the late 50s on the one-off Pentagon label.
They are in fact Philly girl gathering led by Fannie & The Varcells, lady-lead of Fannie Lee Cobb, along with Lulu Martin and Rita Graves with a tenuous link with a very young Cindy Scott. These girl seemed to evaporated into thin air or no real concerted effort was ever made to find them, after their two fabulous 45 releases for Academy.
Honey and the Bees was a really great girl-group name that Jimmy Bishop certainly saw value in, retaining it for his new girl quartet to kick start their career on the legendary Arctic label and later releasing successful 45s and an album for Josie.
Whatever happened the the original 1965 girls is something of a Northern Soul enigma. One thing is for sure both their 45s for Leroy Lovett and Frank Bendinelli on Academy are highly sought-after incredibly elusive and fantastic Northern Soul that very rarer comes to market
PS The flipside "Inside O' Me " was original issued in 1963 by Fannie & The Varcells
Condition Report
two clean labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl - a stunning copy.
Derrick Harriott
Groovy Situation / same
Trojan : TR 7887 DJ (45s)
A fabulously buoyant Jamaican version of the Russ Lewis and Herman Davis song that Gene Chandler immortalised with his 1970 "Groovy Situation " Mercury album of the same name. An uplifting, cheerful dance tune no matter who sings it, but surely Derrick Harriott's is the finest take.
Listen and prepare be impressed.
Here today in its rarest most desirable form, a beautifully mint 1973 British Promo copy.
Condition Report
Two clean label 4 prong centre intact, full gloss previously unplayed vinyl, top, top copy
Incredibles
There's Nothing Else To Say / Another Dirty Deal
Audio Arts : 60,006 DJ (45s)
Truly stunninmg!
But it's more than just about the beauty of this disc, as this USA release has the bonus of "Another Dirty Deal" on the flipside, which for reason only known the the EMI release programmer of the time didn't feature as the flipside on it's coveted 1967 UK release.
Check out the flipside many have still yet to hear at a Northern Soul event.. it is fantastic Northern Soul that surely deserved a stand alone release..
About the classic A-side..?
"There's Nothing Else To Say!"
Condition Report
X X on a-side white promo label, this was gonna feature in Manship Mints this Christmas 2024 but there is a finest of hairlines blurring perfection, but not affecting play.
Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
You Ain't Livin' Till You're Lovin' / O How I'd Miss You
Tamla Motown : TMG 681 DJ (45s)
A universal Tamla Motown favourite from "soulmates" Marvin and Tammi who feed off each other's naturally imploring soulfulness. As with all this pairings recordings, "You Ain't Livin' Till You're Lovin' " again displays the charm and grace these two Motown "lovebirds" emit with their seamless synergy. The two voices caress each other's soulfulness before melding into one palpable force of a love you can almost taste.
Surely the best matched interplay of all the girl/boy couples that have graced a studio together, you can feel the mutual devotion as the entwine in the lyrics.
We all adore their unique sound, just beautiful, what this legendary two "twosomes" created; still today there are few parallels to match their universal appeal...whether it be "Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson" or "Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell" on the credits you can be sure of experiencing deliciously delivered soul.
...presented here as a flawless green and white demo, irresistible TMG collecting as this is one of the most challenging to acquire. !
Condition Report
Two utterly unblemished green and white promo labels, full gloss mint mint minus vinyl, still housed in birth-sleeve. Immaculate! <br /> <br />
Purple Mundi
Stop Hurting Me Baby / I Can't Understand
Cat : 1978 (45s)
Another superior Steve Alaimo session, with Betty Wright & Willie Clarke adding the finer touches to this monumental vocal-group monster. That still sits in "pride of place" of A1 list DJ sets.
Listen why 70s Rare Soul is so very sought-after worldwide, as this example serves up every aspect of the sound, that sets the greatest recordings apart and above the rest.
It’s that easy flow intro enticing you to the dancefloor, then that beast of a vocal that keeps you there. The genius of Willie Clarke works it’s way into your very being, as the lead is augmented by the silky-harmony cooing in the background making this a never-tire-of tune!
.
This surely is superlative vocal group 70s dance groove, delivered at exactly the right hypnotizing pace to send you into Soul-Nirvana. I don’t think 70s Soulful Dance 45 comes any more inspiring than this Miami creation.
Absolutely adore this tune, always have done, always will do.
flipside of course is the delicious group harmony ballad " I Can't Understand"
Condition Report
an two clean yellow labels, small bb drill, full gloss vinyl near perfect mint minus vinyl, an absolute beauty!
Bobby Paris
I Walked Away / Kansas City
Capitol : P 5929 Canada (45s)
For the Northern Soul Class of '76... here is a truly indelible mid-summer experience, with the power to reunite you with those Saturday evenings that swiftly turned into Sunday mornings; with your clothes sodden with perspiration, as the dawn-chill penetrated through to your skin.. as your inadequate attire was laid bare to the British weather...and the only thought you had on your mind was
"Wow what a night!" "Cannot wait until next weekend" it was so worth it to have to brave that walk to the car in totally inadequate soaking wet clothing.
It is powerful statements like “ I Walked Away” that made these times, life affirming experiences. Even after 45 years down the line, "I Walked Away" catapults you back to just the best of times. Made indelible by a pulsating driving production, harnessed by passionate snarling vocal delivered by one of Northern Soul’s true demigods.
THIS IS UNFORGETTABLE NORTHERN SOUL! as a Canadian press I've forgotten the last time I encountered a copy...
Condition Report
two flawless Canadian labels, fine clean unblemished orange, yellow and black perfectness. The vinyl visually reveals only the lightest of wispy hairlines when carefully angled in the light, pressed on that high fidelity top quality Capitol vinyl, do not even whisper. Plays strong clean Mint - throughout a fabulous example of a top drawer classic in its rarest outfit.
Doris Troy
I'll Do Anything (He Wants Me To Do) / But I Love Him
Cameo Parkway : c.101 (45s)
The beauty of the British Soul release Northern Soul classic in its completeness from the very beginnings of "Northern Soul" when the phrase was first coined by Roger Eagle & St. Louis Union(advert) in his R&B SCENE fanzines series from 1964..this 45 was made available 2 years later in February1966 and has been a favourite anthem with everybody since our roots, right up to present day..
You are now confronted with this timeless classic in it's rare most colourful form, sitting proud in the equally challenging to find Cameo Parkway sleeve,,
A vision of vinyl gorgeousness giving up a sound that has been the very fabric of our Northern Soul dedication since the first time you heard it...not forgetting the awesome very in-demand "But I Love Him" also in-demand sitting on the flip
In 2024 the chances to acquiring British Soul 45's of this calibre of excellent condition are few and far between...
do not pass by, this is a real investment opportunity.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong centre intact, vinyl is clean, a few very mild hairlines come into view if angled under light. Strong clean Ex+ and plays so. Listen to the imposing double sound file.
I. J. Harris
All Ready To Go / Everybody Ain't The Same
Cash : BG3671 (45s)
We start with the mysterious I.J. Harris' gritty in-demand horn propelled dancer, before unwrapping a killer Southern Soul influenced Deep Soul stroller on the flip. You will, we assure you, fall in love with both sides. With I.J.'s emotional rasping enthusiasm creeping into your heart.
I. J. rides the considerate horns, so very Nate Evans-esque, reminding me of Nate's Cleethorpes Pier classic "This Time With Feelin". Same easy going pace, perfect for dancing with its uplifting stabbing brass and wah-wah guitar cradling his occasionally breaking voice, the horns carrying you along from one high to the next, as they elevate the song, even higher.
The ballad side is a total killer as the pace drops into a whistling keyboard and a constrained brass stroll, Gospel choir humming away in the distance emphasising his sadness, as his tormented voice tells his tale. Wave after wave of delicate horn playing so reminiscent of a high quality Muscle Shoals production. Brilliant!
Two superior, tunes on a ridiculouisly rare 45... act accordingly
Condition Report
two clean labels, strong gloss on vinyl reveals only a few fine, soft sleeve storage hairlines, as you can hear both sides play crisp and clean.
Moving Finger
Shake And Finger Pop / Higher And Higher
Mercury: MF 1077 (45s)
Whilst the a-side gives up a more than worthy Brit version of the Jackie Wilson timeless classic - it is the outrageous flipside that carries even more "value". A belligerent reworking of Jr., Walker and The All Stars Motown favourite. The five man gathering from Norwich push the boundaries of Motown way, way past the norm. With a a fizzing, aggressive Hammond manipulation, inhospitable brass, the backdrop for the snarling lead vocal. Fabulous keyboard interludes build up the atmosphere that become more brutal until a wicked heavy guitar takes over, and all hell breaks loose and all attempts at a "Soul" cover version are thrown to the wind. As a killer slab of "freakbeat" emerges.
"Higher & Higher" is surprisingly great, with the addition of a burping bari-sax enriching an already brass laden powerhouse backing; Excellent interpretation but "Shake And Finger Pop" is so way out there, beyond where the group first thought they would go with it, it is one of the strongest British transformations of a "Soul" cover versions ever recorded.
Brilliantly angry, individualistic and in places savage!
Top MOD tune which ever side you drop the arm on.
This of course is the authentic original 1969 Valentine's day press.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 3 promo centre intact, strong gloss in vinyl, revealing light surface hairline when angled in the light. Plays well listen, then take in the inviting label and sleeve vista.
Servicemen
I Need A Helping Hand / My Turn
Patheway : 102 (45s)
But this December 1967 Los Angeles release is so much more than just a good-looker. Skilled producer Hadley Murrell also gives us two remarkable vocal-group Soul recordings.
Top side Hadley Murrell and lead singer James Mitchell (such a stunning vice) wrote this explosive slab of Northern Soul.
What a start!!! Vibes ring out from the very first note, relentless driving Northern Soul beat bangs out. Taking no prisoners in its wake, this is classic style Northern Soul at it's most bombastic! A Wigan Casino anthem, a record that allowed freedom of dance-expression with so many moments that triggered dancefloor gymnastics..
PROPER NORTHERN SOUL with few comparable rivals.
Flipside the same pairing craft one of the greatest examples vocal-group Lowrider harmony Soul ever committed to vinyl, utterly delicious Soul stroller; seamless vocals woven into a considerate horn dominated arrangement, which a wealth of rich voices just brush aside into the background. Top tune!
A label design that leaves no doubt of it's first press authenticity. There is a STYRENE plain orange label with delta number 69166 in the deadwax. There is also a horrid orange label VINYL press with a prominent ridge on the label landscape that press is a BOOTLEG that seems to still confuse a few collectors not following due diligence.
Condition Report
MY TURN label plays "I Need A Helping Hand" like 95% of this release, suffered a pressing plant mastering error when the mastering in the deadwax was reversed and consequently those gorgeous labels went onto the back to front. "I Need A Helping Hand" label is totally clean, "My Turn" label reveals an encircled (A) to remind the DJ which side to lead with, a discreet tiny sticker removal graze adjacent. See images. Clean vinyl has soft surface hairlines none of which affect play (listen) to the rich clean playback.
Myrtle Jones
I'm Goin' Home / I'm Alone
Courier : COU-507-45 (45s)
This is all-powerful soul sister venting at its most decisive, as she let's it be known she's "going home" he man has quit her, she's so lonesome, she's so blue. She neatly avoids being confrontational, instead exudes a confidence, making a potent statement that she's not afraid to depart back to where she came from... and start anew.
We adore these determined, survival-mode big-mama movers... especially the really elusive ones.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, strong gloss on the vinyl some light surface hairlines but gives up some aged but soft background crackle (listen)
Barbara McNair
You're Gonna Love My Baby / The Touch Of Time
Motown : 1087 west coast (45s)
Absolutely no introduction required for this Motown classic, but seldom seen in this beguiling format.
Condition is impeccable - you know what to do.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, see images, full gloss mint minus vinyl, set in that tantalizing Motown birth sleeve.
Kim Weston
I Got Good News / blank
Jobette Music Company Inc. : acetate (45s)
One more Tamla 45 “Just Loving You” before her overwhelming powerhouse voice brought her to record “What Good Am I Without You” the much envied honor of partnering Motown heartthrob Marvin Gaye.
A string of exceptional studio sessions that never saw release on 45 inc: “ Drop In The Bucket” “You Hit Me Right Where It Hurt Me” “Meet Me Half Way” not forgetting the inexplicably withdrawn “A Little More Love” and this beautiful 25th June 1964 session written by Motown's soon to be "Hit Pack" Robert Staunton & Robert Walker that never saw commercial release until 41 years later on her long overdue “Anthology” CD
Here is the wondrous voice of Kim Weston on a unique Jobete 7” acetate a session to take your breath away.
A serious Motown scholar’s treasure… underlining how Kim was sadly under-used by Berry Gordy (no solo Album) allegedly under the influence of Diana’s behind the scene’s suppressing Motown most soulful diva vocals.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, bright clean rich unblemished lacquer
Stylus
We All Need One Another / So Much Love
Crystal Clear : CC 2778 (45s)
As early as 1975 this five man team underlined their leanings towards Soul/Jazz by signing for Atlantic records, and having the distinction of supporting George Benson, Average White Band, Ike & Tina Turner etc. on tour. Two years later rewarded with the distinction of being the first Australian act to be released by Motown Records in the USA when they were privileged with a 45 release on the Prodigal label.
The label's choice of a-side "So Much Love " certainly didn't help the meagre sales, that condemned it to instant obscurity. Like all deserving soul/dance productions it eventually bubbled through to the surface of Euro DJ circuit, I remember Soul Sam airing it, which sparked instant demand. I was instantly captivated by the tight background harmonies, cradling an impressive lead vocal and the occasional Vernon Burch vocal impersonation cuts through in the background. But when that long keyboard break kicks in, decorated with tricky plectrum a cocktail of Jazz/Funk instrumentation and floating vocals work so brilliantly.
A TUNE!! ...saturated in glaring potential to go so much higher, when turntable awareness is unleashed.
Condition Report
Soft sticker removal graze on the flipside label, not affecting any text, is its only flaw, a-side label is clean, full gloss vinyl reveals only the merest surface blemish when angled in the light. Plays beautifully...
Ballads
This Is Magic / We Know
Tina : T-102 (45s)
The Tina label through its only other recorded artist Clarence Williams (Philly based) had a close association with Curtis Mayfield,
Predating The Ballads of Oakland by 12months or more, which ever "Ballads" these artist's were, this is their first and rarest 45 by a long, long way, dating from 1964. Phil Gaber collaborated with Curtis Mayfield as well as signing prodigious Philly talent Ronnie Walker / Agents fame. Phil had a penchant for the falsetto lead voice, has showcased here on the flirtatious "This Is Magic " a vocal group masterpiece incorporating, in part, past Doo-Wop influences with the icy-cool lead (Ronnie Walker) style falsetto voice the perfect contrast for this "Curtom" creation.
Totally killer Northern Soul that hasn't broken through as a monster tune, displaying that excruciating rarity always standing in its way of reaching the NS masses, otherwise a top tune for sure. Listen and prepare to be impressed, this is spectacular vocal-group Northern Soul;
Flip it over for a just as impressive "Lowrider" treat of the very highest calibre, so seamless, so smooth, so addictive... prepare to soak in glorious vocal-group harmony.
Two awesome sides, framing 60's vocal-group brilliance no matter which side you chose to play first.
Condition Report
Two beautifully clean pink labels, full gloss mint minus vinyl, a top copy in impeccable condition, a few soft surface hairlines revealed under forensic inspection. Plays totally clean crisp and true. Listen...
Al McCall
Hard Times / same 3:50 vocal version
West End : WES DJ 1242 (45s)
Not the accessible 5:07 long 12" version but the tight totally evasive tightened 3:50 edit 7"; With the only alternative is the even rarer, utterly impossible Mexico 7" release.
Even though Al and his backing team with lyricist and vocals of Arlene Hill McCall were closely associated with New York's finest, Jimmy Wisner, Warren Schatz, Irwin Levine; Al McCall's output was minuscule compared to these expectations of these Big Apple mingling he enjoyed.
Feel-good total dance New York Boogie - tough to acquire - dancefloor pleaser.
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels, strong gloss on vinyl, only reveals soft surface blemishes when angled under light. Listen, both sides play crisp and clean.