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.
Beach Boys
Ten Little Indians / Country Fair
Capitol : CL 15285 DJ (45s)
Allegedly Brian Wilson didn't want this recording to be released by Capitol but they forge ahead and did it anyway. Both sides conceived by Garry Usher and Brian Wilson, as good as they are; Wilson's call proved to be right, as it only sneaked into the Billboard top 50 by one place, and never sold anything in the UK at all.
It is The Beach Boys rarest British 7", and this listing is even rarer, a 1962 Red & White Demo sits at the pinnacle of British Rock 45 collecting.
Condition is sublime, both glorious labels are unblemished, vinyl is a spectacular EX+, so close to mint minus it hurts..
You are viewing a serious collectors-piece, do not snooze on this one. A regular issue copy is damn rare, this beautiful variation is "Mission Impossible"
Condition Report
As described above.
Ambassadors
Surfin' John Brown / Big Breaker
London : HL 2165 (45s)
Why this killer double-helping of guitar "Surf" instrumentals had to go down-under to get a release is a mystery. And even more mysterious is why OZ E.M.I. would credit the label as a USA recording for DOT. It wasn't of course, maybe the title reference "Surfin' would carry more credibility as a ruse to imply it came from USA.
Anyhow, this rarity will of course arouse the interest of both "Surf" "Joe Meek" and instrumental enthusiasts. As serious collectors will not have had much chance to encounter a copy, as there seems ti be no USA, UK or European outing for these two wild guitar instrumentals.
Roy Philips the group leader went on to be a member of the innovative Manchester gathering "The Peddlers" and irocally emgigrated to the Southern hemisphere.
Surfin' side is an insane cocktail of guitar and rattling drums, changing pace as "John Brown Body" is manipulated out of recognition.
The flipside a rare Joe Meek creation, as Joe draws from his "Telstar" experience, signature insistent drumming, weird and wonderful guitar antics, group chants and the kitchen-sink thrown in..
Condition Report
Fabulous condition, mint minus, immaculate labels all housed in the original birth-sleeve.
Tempos
I'll Never Forget / Disc Jockey Paradise
Diamond Jim: DR 8792 (45s)
This 1968 release by The Tempos being IMHO his very best record on the label, ironically the last outing the Tempos had with this James Riley. After their first release as The Moments 4 years earliuer Bufford Glatton, Ben Knight, Herschel Hunter, Sam Pearson and James Davis dispersed into the Detroit music scene.
So where did that attractive rasping vocal of Herschel Hunter move on to? I don't know, but vocals of that remarkable character are rare and unforgettable. Listen how he gently conducts the vocal proceedings. Dictating the lush atmosphere of this haunting slab of quality Northern Soul. His exquisitely scraping voice, perfect to deliver the despair of a love affair turned untrue.
Emotionally elegant as his convincing delivery hits home, whilst his teammates enrich his torment.
In a city heavily populated with accomplished male Soul groups...
THIS RARE DETROIT NORTHERN SOUL AT IT'S VERY FINEST
Condition Report
Pressed at the iconic ARCHER pressing plant. 50 years ago and looking flawless, everything completely unblemished. Nearly a Manship Mint!
Cecille & Jackie c/w Sound Dimension
Breaking Up / Full Up
Muzik City : CD 4604 (45s)
Cecille Campbell & Jackie Estick wrap themselves up into a warm sweet rhythmic mid-pace horn filled delight. Seamless vocal, haunting horns fuse into one lush production. One of the best Reggae recordings I've encountered in recent times, you will discpover one spin is nowhere near spin. As these "lovers" creep under your skin.
Flip it over for a gliding keyboard instrumental from the Sound Dimension.
Both sides f this 45 ripple with quality encapsulating the 1969 era perfectly.
Condition Report
A few very light hairlines, visually Ex and plays so. Black labels carry little or no information, the a-side is unshazamable. Underlining it's obscurity..
Caressors
I Can't Stay Away / Who Can It Be
Ru-Jac : RJ 0020 (45s)
In the world of rare Northern Soul vocal-group recordings this mid-60's Baltimore
Condition Report
Two clean labels, vinyl is impeccable, just revealing a couple of the briefest sleeve contact hairlines, so close to perfection! You will not meet a cleaner copy
Motown Museum Partnership Program
Opening Celebrations / Thursday May 25th 1995
Motown Museum: 25 5 1995 (45s)
Just how many of these were printed is unknown, but we do know there could not have been many. How many were treasured and filed for the future, cannot be more than a handful.
Here is the historical Detroit happening preserved in a 12 page, card cover, with full colour centrefold in flawless condition.
A multitude of previously unpublished photographs, absorbing text, check out the images provided.
The autographs in my opinion are PRINTED not written, which does not detract from it's historical importance or its obscene rarity.
If your serious about Motown ephemera this is a crucial piece of the Berry Gordy jigsaw
Condition Report
Immaculate condition throughout
Brixton Market
Bangarang / Children Get Ready
Beacon : BEA 138 (45s)
However hits for this label were few and far between, so highly collectable records run throughout it's formidable catalog. BEA 138 is one of it's most elusive releases, with the a-side shadowing a strong flip that the public never got to hear.
"Bangarang" is a lively Reggae dance fusion, pulsating with imaginative saxophone peppering the arrangement as the chants of "Bangarang" burst forth.
The flipside, (the original "A") is a lucid more classy session, falsetto pitched group vocals glide along a mid-tempo dance groove, uplifted by several strong Bass-guitar breaks. Vocally skilled, silky and addictive.
Two memorable sides on a much-loved label in fine clean condition...
What's not to love about this seldom seen 45?
Condition Report
Two clean label, 4 prong push-out center fully intact.
Church
How Long / Da Da Song
Silas: 8912 (45s)
A D.I.Y. Joseph Washington creation with striking Saxohpnone interludes, and sizzling vibes punctuating this group sweet vocal as the male / female interchanges ratchet themselves up to with this jazzy/soul arrangement as the Sax wails away in the background.
Truly classy stuff, perfect the burst the European scene wide open,
The flipside jumps into an unusual Funky groove, again offering up an inventive arrangement and urgent vocals leading the charge.
Top side for me, is drenched in huge potential to be elevated into big ticket territory as those rare ingredients of quality and genuine serious rarity, is their in abundance.
Future Top-Tune in influential hands..
Condition Report
Flawless! Two perfect labels, unblemished vinyl
Elton John
Lady Samantha / All Across The Havens
Philips: BF 1739 (45s)
A mighty clean example of Elton's 2nd UK single using his new found name, over 2 years before he hit the big time with "Crocodile Rock" on DJM; Elton and Bernie Tauplin, give notice of what was about to unfold as they write two meaningful songs with classy lyrics and easy delivery. In a style the world grew to adore, as Dick James Music's platform made Elton a worldwide superstar.
To acquire any of his early recordings in tip-top condition is the challenge for all dedicated Rock collectors. This copy is better than we've ever encountered over the decades, and would be hard to eclipse.
Condition Report
two clean 3 prong die cut centre labels. Tight small centre-hole suggesting little of no turntable activity, that the lack of faint spindle trails and the vinyl confirms. Full gloss, with just a few of the merest occasional sleeve contact hairline when angled in in the light. A future upgrade would be more than optimistic and totally unnecessary. A stunning copy!
Sam and Kitty
I've Got Something Good / Love Is The Greatest
Four Brothers : 452 DJ (45s)
Or indeed is there a greater collection adornment, to have a top NS classic in it's least seen, most wanted label design.
A record that has been convincingly counterfeited on several occasion, so how reassuring to own the unmistakably July 1966 original, Los Angeles press that cannot be confused with any of the fraudulent variation.
A listing for the collector of Northern Soul anthems in their rarest clothes.
Condition Report
a few very fine, mild surface hairlines plays clean. White promo label with bars, has some mild age-spotting on the a-side (see image) free of writing, tears, stains or stickers. Good looking PROMO in it's rarest form.
Soul Bros. Orch. c/w Don Drummond
Ska Bostella La Bostella / Looking Through The Window
Coxsone : 522 (45s)
We lead with as trumpet display of the highest order, as Clement Dodd guides the The Soul Brothers through a meandering SKA groove.As Johnny Moore's trumpet and Roland Alphonso's saxophone hustle for position; and the horns flow like cream. Another uplifting session from the Coxsone studios..
Flip it over, and magnificent Don Drummonds whacks out a wonderful display of Trombone aerobatics, as he too is bolstered by a lively saxophone as this tune takes to the air. Ratcheting up the pace, volume and atmosphere.
Huge feelgood factor exudes with both sides..
This 45 open the window to the highly gifted musician skills that Jamaica was blessed with through the 60's. You will feel so much better after hearing these guys bounce of each other..
Superb!
Condition Report
some fine hairlines and a light "misting" NOT affecting play, as you can hear both sides play crystal, crisp and clear. Two black labels are clean. Nice copy
Gene McDaniels
Walk With a Winner / A Miracle
Liberty : LIB 55805 (45s)
There are 3 countries in my opinion that consistently give up very zenith of 50's ad 60's vinyl and fidelity. They are France, Great Britain & Australia. With the USA copy mostly being pressed in styrene, what a wonderful way to own one of Northern Soul best-loved "last records".
A true powerhouse of the "Beat Ballad Heaven" genre, benefiting from a Jack "Specs" Nitzsche arrangement (boy Jack was a talent), produced by Joe Saraceno a New Yorker equally as prolific as "Specs", written by Larry Mannering, Ollie Jones between them, they conjure up an eternally cherished Beat Ballad only trumped by Jimmy Radcliffe's "Long After Tonight Is All Over" as the best known Northern Soul community sing-a-long.
Inspiring in the extreme, a cornerstone of the Northern Soul cult in a very elusive form indeed.
A Big City Beat Ballad at it's most potent!
Condition Report
There are 3 countries in my opinion that consistently give up very zenith of 50's ad 60's vinyl they are France, Great Britain & Australia. With the USA copy mostly being pressed in styrene, what a way to own one of Northern Soul best-loved "last records" . Vinyl is clean, a-side label has a light sticker removal blemish just above the LS in McDaniels. Flipside label is unblemished, Liberty Sleeve is the USA variation.
Nolan Porter
If I Could Only Be Sure / same: 3:12 mono version
ABC : 11343 DJ (45s)
It is after saturated in all the qualities a Northern Soul dancefloor Monster requires..
Addictive rhythms, memorable arrangement, a voice that penetrates your heart. So very easy to dance to, with peaks that lift your movements into hand-raising appreciation.
Just brilliant, and the crowd reaction every time it's dropped confirms this as a timeless classic, that sounds as fresh today as it did back when you first heard it.
Here's a super clean PROMO copy - snug in it's birth sleeve.
A vista just as irresistible as the music it gives up.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, vinyl reveals only the lightest of minuscule hairlines on close inspection. Sleeve is immaculate.
Van Dykes
Save My Love For a Rainy Day / Tears Of Joy
Mala : 584 DJ (45s)
Rondalis Tandy, Wenzon Mosley, Eddie Nixon and James Mays and his rich baritone. Do such a beautiful job on pouring out vocal-group Motown retaining a little street-corner nous for "edge" with a seamless flood of harmony Soul.
Charles Stewart thundering bass-line intro, peppered with ringing vibes, blasted skyward by a barrage of brass, then met head-on by Ron Tandy's searing falsetto.
It is one of the most motivational intros of them all - park your drink and dash to the dancefloor, it is a record you can really dig your feet into. Driven to the brink by a torrent of male voices..
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL at it's most exhilarating
and the flipside is delicious top drawer Sweet Soul harmony. That showcases one of the most gifted Soul groups, who sadly failed to make worldwide fame.. The Impressions, Manhattans, Dramatics, Temptations, The Dells would not have sung "Tears Of Joy" finer than the fabulous Van Dykes. A group who never quite reached the dizzy heights their talents so deserved.
THIS IS SWEET SOUL at it's most exquisite
Condition Report
A tiny red release date of November 29 '67 written on the a-side label is the only speck of infiltration into this discs perfectness. Impeccable vinyl revealing on the finst of hairlines upon intense inspection. Strong Mint - / Mint - dol
Percy Wiggins
That's Loving You / Look What I've Done ( To My Baby )
A-Bet : 9434 DJ (45s)
Spencer's brother Percy left Memphis for a musical journey to RCA after an introduction to prolific Writer, arranger, producer; Fellow son of Memphis Larry Lee, who in turn showed of Percy's vocal prowess to Jery Crutchfield. It was a meeting that would spawn 5 45's between 1966 to 1970. Two of them being top-drawer Northern Soul dancers. "It Didn't Take Much for RCA and his one his penultimate 45 in 1968 a storming slab of Northern Soul, backed up as all the other 45's were with a Deep Soul ballad.
NOTE. this is the 1968 first press PROMO with the logo A-Bet, not the later release in the early 70s on the Abet reissue.
Still house in it's birth sleeve and in perfect condition.
Click the soundfile to reveal the quality that was crafted after his 3 hour north-east migration to a city that did so much more that just produce country and western music.. they spawned standout SOUL also.
Condition Report
A Manship MINT!! I should be saving for Christmas..
Yvonne Vaughn
When You Gonna Tell Her About Me / Lonely Little Girl
Dot: 16751 (45s)
Billy & Gene Page warmed by the California sun in June 1965, craft an almighty cocktail of Girl-group-sound/Northern Soul/Spector style big city sound. From this scintillating amalgam, emerges a instantly inspiring NS dancer.
The rolling drum intro, collides with a deluge of brass, cut to ribbons by razor-sharp strings. The insistent lead vocal rides a wall-of-sound, aided by a shrill girl-chorus and blasting horns..
The flip "Lonely little girl" is not to be overlooked. Riddled with uplifting high-end piano strokes, rhythmic guitar picks all blend into the ideal background for Yvonne Vaughn to flex her vocal range. We just adore the intentional emotional "cracking" in her voice. Teen flavoured Northern Soul you will find slowly but surely worming into your mind.
Two strong sides, top side is perfect All-Nighter fuel, the flipside less obvious but extremely addictive as you slowly fall for Yvonne's sultry vocal.
Rare and we think brilliant, yet to receive the full exposure it so obviously deserves.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, vinyl inspection reveals only the merest hairline blemishes for a lifetime on the collection shelf. Still housed in it's birth-sleeve. As the soundfile and images confirm, looks flawless and plays flawless.
Chuck Jackson
I Wake Up Crying / blank:
UK Belinda: acetate (45s)
It did appear on the 1968 Pye "Super Soul" compilation album. But everything about this acetate points to 1961 cut. Presumably for "Top Rank" but they never used it after two poor sales with "I Don't Wanna Cry" Top Rank 564 and in 1962 "Breaking Point" Top Rank 507. Chuck Jackson in the early 60's was an unknown quantity in the UK before slowly but surely becoming one of the icons of the British Soul collector.
For the serious about amassing a great UK Soul collection this "lost" acetate is essential.
Chuck Jackson is unquestionably a Soul demigod to us all. "I Wake Up Crying" personifies Beat-Ballad-Heaven and the New York City Sound..
I so very lucky to work at this labour of love, every week just when you think you've "seen it all" something new and exciting is found..
This discovery of an unissued, 1961 UK acetate of a beloved artist, crooning a killer Beat-Ballad; is the kind of thing that gets me out of bed every morning.
Condition Report
Clean labels title in a different hand and pen by the engineer and artist credit done by an office clerk. It was never used, filed is a most gorgeous vintage "ribbed" brown paper sleeve. THe whole acetate sings authenticity the momet you hold it. The playing surface reveal only the lightest of hairlines none of which affect the stylus. The sound quality from this direct-cut could not be richer.
Arthur Alexander
You Better Move On / 1962 UK press
London : HA-D 2457 (LP)
Arthur 1st recording is now considered a valuable Northern Soul 45 as he recorded under the name June Alexander "Sally Sue Brown" / "The Girl That Radiates Charm" for Judd records. This 45 maybe sold zero but alerted this local boy's talent to FAME recordings. He was soon working with producer / engineer Rick Hall at the now legendary Muscle Shoals studios. It was to prove to be a collaboration that gave both Rick & Arthur their big break into the Billboard charts. Laying down a financial cornerstone for the Muscle Shoal Studio to spring from. Blossoming into one of the most famous recording studios in the world today, boasting a plethora of classic Soul, Blues & Rock recordings to it and Rick Hall's credit.
Arthur's vocal honesty, his easy style emitted from deep inside was rich, warm and convincing. His writing talents on "You Better Move On" was recorded 1961 at Muscle Shoals, Alabama but released from small-town Gallatin, Tennessee, by the Dot label. Small-town maybe, but already major force in the record industry. The disc received instant countrywide radio play; it became such a big hit, the 45 was released in no fewer than 5 countries around the world. From this remarkable success, this12 track album was born in early 1962.
Neither the 45 or this album were a hit in Great Britain, but the single did receive early Soul Club plays, slowly but surely Arthur Alexander became a respected name and an artist to follow. A small but dedicated following emerged, which included many British R&B orientated bands who covered his work. So check out why this Soulman from Sheffield, Alabama who captured the imagination of the MODS and the embryonic British R&B scene. It won't take a moment for you to, like many before you, to fall in love with this man's exquisite voice and the effortless manner he alerts your senses.
Without question one of the greatest "Black Artist" albums ever issued in the UK. Rare and highly coveted do not pass by a Muscle Shoals legacy that influenced so many collectors, DJ's and legendary artists in their infancy!
Look and listen and be prepared to fall in love, with this captivating talent.
Condition Report
A fine clean copy, two mint - labels, vinyl reveal an occasional light surface mark, retains good gloss plays mint - visually Excellent. The laminated cover is clean no writng, stain, rip, frays or tears. Upon forensic examination there are 4 minusucle pin-prick holes at the corner-tips. From this album being wall display in and early 60's Record Store (a common practice) this is so discreet that we doubt they will show up on listings images, and certainly dies nmo distract from the overwhelming desire for ownership.
Upsetters
The Vampire / Check Him Out
Upsetter : US 317 DJ (45s)
Lee Perry after building his skills throughout the early and mid 60's. By the late 60's his contribution to "Skinhead" Reggae was immense, and his reputation exploded into cult-status. A Lee Perry composition, arrangement, production is certain to have a certain edge that sets it apart from the norm.
This 1969 creation, starts with a "rap" novelty intro (his "nod" to the in voque "Hammer House Of Horrors"), before it crash dives into an infectious keyboard dominated instrumental. Rhythmically addictive like all "Scratches" creations of that burgeoning "Reggae" era.
The flipside also a Lee Perry composition and production by Leo Graham's Bleechers raises the bar another notch. Uplifting dancefloor fuel, vocally seamless as Leo Graham & Wesley Martin rebound of each others enthusiasm driven by Lee Perry relentless arrangement.
Two beefy side of classic 1969 Reggae, presented as the seldom seen "A" stamped pre-release
Condition Report
Unblemished "A" stamped labels, 4 prong centerpiece still intact, squeaky clean vinyl, with hardly a hairline. Strong clean Mint - / MInt - / Mint -
Jimmy London
Bridge Over Troubled Water / original 1972 UK press
Trojan: TRLS 39 (LP)
Pretty darn remote, I hear you shouting.
Before you today is Jimmy London's first UK album release that too 28 years to eventually appear on a CD reissue in 2000. Supring really as this 10 track album is just bulging with fine early 70's Reggae tune.
Check out the back cover image for the full listing:
hear a sample on the soundfile: 1. Bridge Over Troubled Water 2. Just My Imagination 3. Hanging Up My Heart 4. A Little Love + 6
And rest assured you will not locate a finer, cleaner, more perfect copy than this one on offer today.
Condition Report
Nice clean cover, no writing, stains or creases. Like the only other copy of this album we've encountered this UK press also is housed in the "Impact" USA sleeve. Maybe all the release has the Impact cover, not an uncommon practice in the 70's to ship over overstock sleeves for a release rather than print. The two labels are PERFECT as is the vinyl. Truly astonishing condition
Al Greene
Don't Leave Me / Back Up Train
Hot Line Journal : 1233 DJ (45s)
Before you is the pre-AMY/MALA/BELL distribution - FIRST PRESS PROMO - different label design - different release number.
It seems without exception the release number on the label is 15000 as a stock or the very rare Promo, this promo copy carries a #1233 release number, replicated into the deadwax.
A listing for those who not only appreciate the very rare oddities we occasionally trip over whilst searching for rare Soul, but also acknowledge unadulterated Soul brilliance when they hear it.
"Back Up Train" is recognized as one of the truly great "Deep Soul" vocal group assisted recordings of the 60's. A record that lifts your day as Al sweepingly portrays his gift for the emotional ballad.
In more recent times it is "Don't Leave Me" that's been taking a Northern Soul bow, to a most welcome response. Palmer Jones and label partner Curtis Rodgers craft sublime Michigan Northern Soul dancer, utilizing a vocal that only a few years later would rule Memphis and the worldwide Soul charts.
So was this 45 the beginning of Al Greene's journey to the pinnacle of his profession.
Checking the deadwax markings of the 1500 release, are different to this release. For whatever reason Rodgers & Jones abandoned this 1233 mix and went with the 8345 mix and a new release number of 1500. Why we don't know, but it sure has rewritten the notes on this brilliant 45. If your gonna own it (and every collector should) this is the superior way, we've have never seen a copy before. Rarity must be extreme, as google throws no light on it whatsoever,
Before you is a proper rare disc, from the fall of 1967 first press PROMO from ARP. I can't recognize any recording differences between 15000 label number with matrix 1233 scratched over and replaced by 8346 and and this the 1233 release & recordings, if there is one, it is minuscule. Perhaps this #1233 press, was a tester from ARP to be approved, we can only presume.
What is not in doubt is the quality that both sides offer, top-drawer Soul from a singer who has few, if any equals and this (1233) is his rarest single by a long, long way.
Condition Report
Two flawless promo labels, flawless vinyl, Bell Aound and ARP stamped matrix reads 1233
Ghost
I've Get To Get To Know You / For One Second
Gemini: GMS 014 (45s)
Saturated with gifted artists, who even making an impressive John Peel Show appearance, didn't seem to help this 45 sell or their now heavy-weight Prog Rock album which feraures "For One Second" but not the lead side "I've Get To Get To Know You" this rare 1970 7" promo is strong evidence of what their combined talents, could have achieved with a longer time spent together and recording.
Shirley Kent the writer of the a-side was multi talented artist, equally comfortable with Folk, Jazz or Rock she is surrounded by 4 equally gifted guys.
Paul Eastman previously with Velvet Frogg, Terry Guy writer of the flipside, Charlie Grima who went on to work with Roy Wood in Wizard, Daniel McGuire who learned his trade in and around Birmingham in the mid-60's as a member of the UK Bonds.
The a-side is a cocktail of Folk influenced acoustic guitar, Prog Rock styled soaring vocals, impressive guitar breaks and imaginative Hammond pulses.
The B-side is a fusion of swirling organ, thrashing guitar and contrasting keyboard work. Then a mystical vocal fills the session, a perfectly presented album track. Here's a 45 offering up two outstanding sides and a brief window into a meeting of the minds that could have developed into so much more.
One for the Prog Rock Connoisseurs even if you are all ready the proud owner of the highly sought-after "When You're Dead - One Second" lp.
Condition Report
Totally flawless vinyl, a-side label has Radio Luxembourg notes on it, DJ moniker, date & file number. Flipside label is clean
C-Jam Blues
Candy / Stay At Home Girl
Columbia : DB 8064 DJ (45s)
Whether you be a British release "Soul" addict or are drawn to obscure 60's British "beat" and "MOD" bands the 45 will appeal to both camps.
There is very little known about the "C-Jam Blues" other than they did pull-off a great Brit version with tight harmonies giving up a Soulful aroma to the rare session, even without the luxury of The Memphis Horns or a Steve Cropper guitar solo. Theor daring take on this Stax classic it a darn worthy job for a gathering of British R&B inspired MODS. It will be a 45 that the majority of serious British 45 enthusiasts will not own, and in these clothes many will find it irresistible; as the lure of the EMI red & white demo, is an addiction that never leaves an old-school collectors veins.
This seldom seen 45's is particularly attractive and very clean indeed.
Check out the soundfile, gaze the label image.. a thing of beauty in IMHO
Condition Report
Two flawless Promo labels, push-out centre fully intact. Vinyl reveals only a few feeble hairline brushes, plays clean a strong Ex + all round., still housed in its birth-sleeve.
Hoagy Lands
The Next In Line / Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone
Laurie : LR 3381 DJ (45s)
I'd never heard anything remotely like Al Kent's - The Way You've Been Acting Lately.. I wasn't even inside the club and I was buzzing..
I sat in awe of the dancers, the music and the fact I didn’t know a single record that was played. The DJ didn't say a word, it was a night of endless Soul.dance tunes with not a pause between them. I can remember the tunes that instantly buried themselves into my impressionable brain. They are still lurking there today, every time I hear one, it catapults me back into 1969 and The Brit dance-space.
Al Kent's - The Way You've Been Acting Lately
Jackie Edwards - I Feel So Bad
Spinners - She's Gonna Love Me At Sundown
Jimmy Thomas - Where There's A Will
Dean Parrish - Determination
Jimmy McCracklin - The Walk
Incredibles - There's Nothing Else To Say
Invitations - What's Wrong With Me Baby
Major Lance - Everybody Loves A Good Time
and it took me over a year to even find out what these mind-blowing tunes were called, I had to ask the DJ on return revisits to that amazing club....
..and last but not least Hoagy Lands - The Next In Line - bedded into my psyche forever, that rich creamy vocal cradled by a bevvy of shrill girl choruses. Utterly brilliant, and it affected me in a big way. I was a Northern Soul inductee from the moment Hoagy hit my ears. Still for me, perhaps the greatest "Big City Builder" of all time. Thumping production matched only by one of the most effective Soul voices of all time..
So effective Bert Russell Berns enlisted Hoagy especially to add "depth" in the chorus of the Drifters - "Under The Boardwalk"... now there's respect for you...
Label lovers, promo addicts.. will not need reminding of how stunning this rare PROMO copy is; a timeless classic, that’s gonna look so cool, snug next to your Dean Parrish Promo in your treasure trove of NS vinyl.
Condition Report
in short MINT minus throughout - a flawless copy
Holidays
I’ve Lost You / Easy Living
Groove City: 206 (45s)
Double-header "value for money" Detroit rarities don't come much better than this duel-delight.
Soaring horns, jingling vibes are the podium for a beseeching Soulful vocal. An on-his-knees - hands on his heart plea fir another chance. Convincing, moving and utterly gut-wrenching as you feel for his irreparable mistake. His voice is so plausibly in pain, the producer sees no reason for the other Holidays to join in. A truly remarkable solo performance of real Soul! Woven into a Motor City Northern Soul dance setting that simply takes your
breath away..
One of my all time favourite Detroit recordings..
Flip it over "Easy Living" has the same heartfelt, imploring atmosphere, this time his teammates coat the proceedings with with glorious harmony choruses; the session just glides from one high to another..
Detroit was the providing of many, many unforgettable 45's, just a few had the luxury of giving up not one but two killer tunes on one disc.. I consider this Groove City outing as one of the very greatest.
So Good, bidders regret will haunt the second place for an eternity..
Condition Report
A fine clean copy, just a few very mild surface blemishes revealed under direct light, as you will hear both sides play beautifully. Both labels are immaculate
Joe Douglas
Something To Brag About / Crazy Things
Playhouse: 1000 (45s)
The top side “Something To Bragg About” is yet another immaculate Robert L. Martin composition, whilst the equally impressive flip “Crazy Things” incorpates the dual gifts of Jack Ashford and Mike Terry.
The credits of those 3 doyens of 60’s Soul sitting on the labels makes for a salivating journey into the very best Northern Soul has to offer. Which actually worked against its turntable life.
It was such a surefire Monster, it was spuriously counterfeited in premature anticipation of taking off big! But as so often happens when a flood of copies spill onto the collectors market. The late 70s NS DJ’S passed it over. It was not until later down the line, that it became obvious the “copies” on the market were “counterfeits” and the original was indeed a rare 45 back then and even rarer today.
So with a little patience either side of this 45 would have been a huge Northern Soul hit but was never given the chance.
Before you today, is that rare authentic first press, a listing for those of you who really appreciate, top drawer Northern Soul and would rather walk naked through their town centre at noon; than buy, play or hold one of those counterfeits pressed to deceive... and they did that for quite some time, at the expensive of a truly great 45 that never received the turntable time it most certainly deserved back when first discovered.
Condition Report
A flawless authentic first press, unblemished vinyl, two perfect labels
Sam Moultrie
I’ll Always Love You / Do Your Own Thing
Warren: 108 blue logo (45s)
Condition Report
Beautifully clean M- M- throughout
Sly & The Family Stone
Dance To The Music / Let Me Hear It From You
Columbia : DB 8369 (45s)
Anybody over the age of 50 will be rocketed back to euphoric recall of their formative years the moment those horns unleash the intro, for insane guitars and exuberant chants and scream as "The Family Stone" inflame a barrasge of Funk/Soul the like of which has never been heard before!!
But wait ..!! The British EMI withdrawn "Dance To the Music" is a completely different mix to the Direction "hit" that CBS put out.
Not only the British first press, not only withdrawn after just a few days BUT A TOTALLY different mix to the one we all know and grew up with.
Little wonder this 45 is consider a top-collectors-piece by dedicated British Soul scholars.
Click the soundfile and taste the difference!!
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, 4 prong die-cut centre intact. Unblemished near perfect Mint minus vinyl. a real beauty!
Trends
Not Too Old To Cry / If You Don't Dig The Blues
ABC : 10731 (45s)
Johnny Pate expertly guides this Chicago session ripples with subtle Big City rhythms not normally associated with the Windy City; as he shackles those rich group vocals into a tender whisper in the intro, the sublte build up creeps under your skin settling snugly into your now rested-brain. A tantalizing expansion vocal-group expertise, as all those silky vocals fuse into a warm wave of Soul.
This is what can happen when highly-honed-talents come together in one room, something very special is created.
Classy in the extreme, severely addictive and unforgettable..
Flip it over and Johnny Pate & the boys repeats the exercise with a mighty fine Northern Soul mid-tempo that so far has not enjoyed the turntable exposure it most certainly deserves.
So much so I'm having a little difficulty deciding which side gives the DJ the most output for the dancefloor.
Let's just say TWO killer tunes for the price of one.. delivered by an impeccable condition 1965 original.
Condition Report
Just flawless throughout not a blemish, not stone-mint but as close as it is possible to encounter. Mint - / Mint - / Mint -
David Ruffin
Action Speaks Louder Than Words / You Can Get What I Got
Check-Mate : 1003 DJ (45s)
From, then on in, this style was the foundation of the emerging Motown sound. Rich choruses, a banks of violins enriching standout vocals and finger-clicking arrangements.
Flip it over the pace quickens, the male choruses more urgent, the strings cut sharper and deeper. You can hear that evolving sound, that set Marvin Gaye etc. on their way to hand-clapping Motown dance classics. This is early Motown genius in full swing. This disc also bristles with untapped Northern Soul potential, which ever side you drop the arm on.
Serious Motown scholars will know that the FIRST PRESS promo copy is one tough 45 to find. (it was bootlegged as this promo that counterfeit has a beveled edge run-in and pressed on flexible 70's vinyl, an obvious repro)
Before you today is the Monarch stamped April 1961 promo, showing off two pristine label and play perfect vinyl.
A rare tempting sight indeed...two strong songs from an icon of the Motown Sound, an historical disc without NS potential. It rare condition.. all those Motown collecting criteria-boxes are ticked.
Condition Report
Two perfect label, play perfect vinyl free of any marks, but does has a mild surface haze as you can hear it plays flawless, crisp & true.
Voltaires
My, My, My Baby / Movin’, Movin’ On
Bacone: 9468 (45s)
The best known is the currently revived and oh so popular “I’m Lonely, I’m Troubled” by the “Limitations”; whilst this much silkier and rarer release is slowly emerging to take it’s place.
Much more my style of Northern Soul as it bathes in glorious vocal harmonies crocheted into a fluid arrangement. A exquisite melding of seamless pitches of male voices forge a simplistic but spectacular dance groove.
Then you flip it over and the flipside is every note as addictive. Presenting a double helping of classy, delicious Northern Soul. Which in our experience is the rarer of the labels seldom seen 45s.
One for the DJ who appreciates the subtleties of top drawer vocal-group gliders, rather than the crash, bang whallop of the more obvious Norther Soul stomper.
I just adore BOTH sides of this elegant harmony session.
Condition Report
Flawless vinyl, perfect labels, as good as it gets condition
Frank Beverly and the Butlers
If That's What You Wanted / Love (Your Pain Goes Deep)
Gamble : G 220 DJ (45s)
As the a-side originally - "Love (Your Pain Goes Deep) " has that elusive rubber-stamped D J COPY top left, with the "Y" just disappearing just under the gold promo "Chips" sticker. This is of course 100% genuine but it is the first copy I've encountered in quite some time. In 70's I did have a handful of these "Promo's" that filtered out into the scene decades ago.
A little different to those Northern Soul collectors seeking the finite differences and the rarest possible variations of the true classics.
Not that it matters, what really matters is, this disc is one of the greatest Northern Soul recordings of all time.
Responsible, perhaps above all others, for inspiring and totally diverting 1000's of teenagers away from humdrum music, onto a course of Northern Soul dedication. A lifetime glued to Northern Soul by the desire to feel that overwhelming sensation of euphoria that only records of this calibre can provoke..spine-chilling, goose-bump inducing, pulse racing ecstasy we all experience the first time this masterpiece of 60's Soul hit our ears. We all remember it well, and remember the longing for the weekend to return, so we could get another uplifting fix of Northern Soul and hopefully another new tune to ignite our senses.
"Since I've Been With You Darlin', I've Been Walkin' Into Close Doors.."
those opening words still 45 years later, Frankie Beverly lifts my day..
Condition Report
Light storage rub to a-side label (see image), DJ rubber-stamping and "Chips" gold promo sticker on flipside label. A-side vinyl hardly reveals a blemish and of course plays flawless (listen) flips ide vinyl reveals the merest brief surface blemishes but again plays crisp, clean and clear. Grading is Ex+ / Ex+/ sticker. Plays MInt minus
Exciters
Blowing Up My Mind / You Don’t Know What You’re Missing ( Unitl It’s Gone )
RCA: 47-9723 DJ (45s)
Their biggest hit, Bert Russell Bern’s “Tell Him” placed them firmly into the headlights of the USA Soul/R&B fan.
Their prestigious move from Roulette to RCA should have elevated them to greater success. Although Rooney’s craft with the pen was immense they failed to emulate their success of 1964.
Excepting for the British passion for the fired-up Soul dancer. During the very early 70’s “Blowing Up My Mind” was a monster all nite club favourite. So much so, just like Roy Hamilton’s “Crackin’ Up Over You”; Select-A-Disc of Nottingham commissioned a limited press of the two current inter-tunes to service UK demand circa 1972. Fortunately for the serious Northern Soul collector these two reissues carried a different release numbers of 48-1035 and 48-1034 respectively.
Before you today of course is the original 1969 promo in stunning condition.
Spy the beautiful image, then unleash a tsunami of Soul Sister energy that Herb Rooney instilled into all his creations.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL at its most vibrant...
Condition Report
Fine clean unblemished vinyl, spotless labels all housed in its birth-sleeve. A spectacular copy.
Bobby Bland
Shoes / A Touch Of The Blues
Duke: 426 DJ (45s)
Condition Report
A few very mild surfaces hairlines plays clean. Two utterly gorgeous pink promo labels, housed in that spectacular authentic Duke sleeve. Altogether a pulse quickening moment for the eye and ear.
Eddie Spencer
If This Is Love (I'd Rather Be Lonely) / You're So Good To Me Baby
Arc : 1206 (45s)
Eddie Spencer's across the border to Toronto version is edging up in value and kudos. Rightly so as it is 100's of times rarer than the Drew issue and arranged by the Motor City magician Mike Terry. His arrangement makes his 4 hour journey North, as he replicates the Detroit Sound adding "meat & 2 veg" to this production, losing not a drop of it's spellbinding power. Indeed shimmering with an inventive and superior string section. As Mike Terry incorporates several different ranges of "strings" and see's no need for his Saxophone prowess to be used.
Playing this take, the DJ's receive the same explosion audience participation, with a little more added kudos. Adding this Canadian VINYL press is no easy find, especially in this near clean unblemished condition.
With an added bonus of the flipside, giving up punchy gritty Soul. A real screamer that Eddie Parker would have been proud of; surely this is the best way to own "If This Is Love ( I'd Rather Be Lonely ". With the muscular flipside..
George Daris & Robert Rowe without Mike Terry draw from the "Memphis Sound" on this Canadian penned Northern Soul stomper. Riding on bass-line guitar dance-rhythm, Eddie's rasping vocal is the perfect foil for those blasting horns. "Soul Man" styled guitar picks keep on poking through the backing decorating the arrangement even further... and it all jells together into one slab of overlooked Northern Soul.
Two strong sides on this much-rarer version, guided by Mike Terry., pressed in vinyl.. so many reasons for the Eddie Spencer 45 to be your preferable hot-box resident.
Condition Report
Two clean label, vinyl reveals only the mildest hairline or two. Strong mint minus throughout.
Gino Washington
I'm So In Love / blank
Atac: acetate (10")
Check out those razor-edged strings as they slice into Gino's Soulful delivery. Gino recollects his meeting his true-love. Comparing her to the bitter cold of the Detroit streets, but wherever she walks she melts the ice.. Painting a picture of true love and admiration as they reach a milestone in their relationship. With the Davis Sister adding weight to the arrangement with sweetly pitched harmony choruses.
There is no doubt Gino Washington was a gifted Soul Poet, another in a long line of extreme talents that emerged from this city of turmoil and strife for the black artist. This offering, I rate as his most poignant as his classic production matches those heartfelt lyrics. Top-drawer Northern Soul crossover, on offer here as a unique 10" acetate.
Not only a killer slab of Detroit Northern Soul, it also carries significant Motor City historic kudos also. Cut at the Holland - Dozier - Holland "HDH" studios, in a coverted old threatre at 12813 Grand River Detroit. Building is no longer there, but this acetate is testament to Holland - Dozier - Holland work after leaving Motown in 1968 embarking on what was to become a triumphant journey of faith.
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Condition Report
some surface marks but as you can hear this direct-cut plays rich, loud and clean. Like a direct-cut should..
Fontella Bass
Fontella Bass live at Tiffanys / 19" x 30" poster Tuesday 7th. November 1972
Tiffanys: Tiffanys Fontella Bass (Book)
"Rescued" from the foyer walls of Tiffanys by the DJ John Murphy.
One of only TWO ever made, the other example most-likely scrapped. As according to John he was the only person in the establishment who saw any value in these florescent posters. So we can confidently say we think this poster is a one-of-a-kind.
Note even though this lady was a Soul Diva to the MODS during the 60's with fully 4 Chess classic Club-Soul tunes under her belt release on British Chess. The poster maker spelt her first name "Fontalla" insatead of "Fontella" but I do love the throwback psychedelic shaping of the lettering.
Northern Soul "art" - very rare art - in fact unique art and the perfect "framer"
A stunning wall-hanger
Condition Report
Fine clean condition, check images there is light wear to the top.
Uniques c/w Slim Smith
Watch This Sound (For What It's Worth) / Out Of Love
Blank : FER 7423 (45s)
The equally captivating flipside "Out Of Love" is unlike the version on 'Slim Smith Resurrection' CD This take is without the added "Bird Chirping" and for many is not an enhancing addition for a fluid male group harmony dance groove. No wildlife effects on this blank, and a much better for it, a cleaner mix of this great song.
In fact this blank gives up two great recordings as harmony flows from the trio.
Seldon seen for sale and offering two cool tunes on one disc.
Condition Report
Multiple light surface ,marks but plays, as you can hear flaw free.
Quantrells
Show Me The Game Of Love / Can't Let You Break My Heart
Yambo : 15 (45s)
Two killer tunes from the streets of the Windy City; "The McGregors", George & Billy again offer the Northern Soul collector a strong, uplifting dance, with urgent vocal running through this horn driven mover. relentless piano fingering lead the rhythms. Then hard-hitting screaming horns, attack with a barrage brass. An fully urgent dancer, that so far hasn't received the DJ attention it deserves. Another cool disc, suffering from it's own obscurity.
Under the radar Northern Soul with something rather delicious on the flipside. A mid-tempo groove that sits between captivating Crossover and head-turning Low Rider. A mid-tempo harmony groove full of passion and skilled interchanges of teenage voices. The hurt and desire drips from every sentence, the lead voice so very convincing as he "walks away" to save his heart from impending pain. These young vocals work so well within the punchy Billy McGregor production, blistering horn do not daunt these enthisastic fresh voices.
Two great sides no matter your preference for Rare Soul styles, both sides deliver BIG!
Condition Report
Two flawless labels and vinyl match. Tip Top condition throughout
James Carr
A Man Needs A Woman / 1968 USA press album
Goldwax : 3002 (LPs)
A platter that captures one of greatest 60's Soul Men ever committed to vinyl.
Fully 11 tracks documenting this Soul Giant's work between 1966 / 1968. Prepare to be taken through the full gamut of emotions, as James Carr drags you into the depths of despair, then back up and into joyous triumph. James Carr aided by some of Soul's most talented wordsmiths, tell it like it is. With a beseeching voice that will stay in your mind for life!
James stamps his brokenhearted authority on tracks written and produced by Goldwax's most gifted contributors. Obie McClinton, Dan Greer, Quinton Claunch, George Jackson, Rudolph "Doc" Russell, Dan Penn, Spooner Oldham, Chips Moman, Johnny Mae Matthews, Jake Hammonds, Harlan Howard all the great lyricists couldn't wait to hear the incomparable James Carr interpret their words in his own formidable way.
The former "Soul Stirrer" pulls from his formative Gospel past and delivers "heartbreak" like nobody else could then or since. The man himself battling his own demons, which spills over into his interpretation of life's ups and downs , lost love, gained love and secret love.
One of the most adored vocals of the last century, considered a Soul King in Europe - a Soul-God in Japan. James Carr's legacy to Real Soul will last eternally; as nobody did it like J.C.
Click the sample soundfile, and prepare for an awakening, a realization that this man was the very best voice at conveying distilled emotion
Condition Report
Beautifully clean front cover, no hint of storage, no rub or surface fade. Bottom right corner has a small "cut out" saw, light corner-tip ding. Back cover is near pristine, no writing, no stains, flaws whatsoever. The vinyl is MINT previously unplaed before the mood-changing soundfile was lifted. Both blue label are perfect, with no sign of spindle insertion.<br /> <br /> This is as good as you could ever dream of owning. A jaw-dropper!
This is as good as you could ever dream of owning. A jaw-dropper!