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.
Big Daddy Rogers
I'm A Big Man / Be My Lawyer - MANSHIP MINT
Midas : 9006 (45s)
Manship Mint
An unplayed copy still housed in it's birth-sleeve.
One of the great Northern Soul R&B plays of all time!
Condition Report
MINT
Lou Ragland
Since You Said You'd Be Mine / I Didn't Mean To Leave You
Warner Bros : K 16312 DJ (45s)
Even though, the USA Warner Bros the release met a similar fate, with the ridiculously rare release copy with two sides being one of the very hardest 70's 45's to acquire. Thus making this British promo particularly desirable as it offers not only the fabulous "Since You Said You'd Be Mine" but also the even better "I Didn't Mean To Leave You" on the flip. "I Didn't Mean To Leave You" only appeared on the "impossible" stock copy USA as the promo was a mono/stereo single sider.
An unknown guy from Cleveland at the time, only received a passing listing in Blues & Soul and that was it; soon disappearing into the abyss of new releases never receiving any Northern Soul recognition, until after its swift deletion. Even after that it was the livelier "Since You Said You'd Be Mine" that received all the attention. "I Didn't Mean To Leave You" quality was yet to be disclosed.... but as time as moved on, tastes have matured and sharpened towards the more Soulful sides. This recording is now considered a cult item in the thinking DJ's armoury. A Sunday chill-out gem!
An utterly brilliant soulful stepper, headed up by a wonderful horn propelled dancer. Both sides Lou Ragland incorporates full male group chorus, both sides are pure distilled 70's Soul. Set at different paces but just as good as one another. If you're seeking ownership of it's USA counterpart you may wait a lifetime until one turns up.Today here is the highly attractive British promo with the TWO sides, crucial to every Soul collector / DJ.
Just dripping in class, no matter what side you drop the arm on.
Condition Report
4 prong centre intact, two clean red and white promo labels. Vinyl reveals only mild hairlines under light. as you can hear it plays superbly clean. all housed in birth sleeve.
Wade Flemons
Jeanette / What A Price To Pay
Ramsel : 1001 (45s)
Electric Chicago Northern Soul with the power to change an evening..
Take "Jeanette" out with you tonight...and the crowd is yours.
One of the most explosive Northern Soul dancefloor detonators it is possible to drop..
BOOM!
Condition Report
Two totally clean labels. A-side vinyl reveals some light surface marks under direct light. As you can hear it plays perfect, crisp, loud and true strong EX+ Flipside vinyl has some light scuffing..vg+
Rain
Out Of My Mind / same: 2:21 version - MANSHIP MINT
Bell : 45142 DJ (45s)
Synonymous with Wigan Casino as it featured in the "This England" ATV documentary, but few people are aware it started life at Cleethorpes Pier long before destroying the dancefloor at the Casino.
The highly regarded "Pier" DJ "Poke" was the first DJ to spin it; covered up as "Joan Moody - I'm Comin' Home". But nobody, not even "Poke" himself knew the real identity of what the song nor the artist actually was.
The record he had, was wrongly labelled as "Vicki Anderson" "I'm Too Tough For Mr. Big Stuff" on Brownstone, which it clearly wasn't. Just like most of "Poke's" turntable choices of the day, it soon became a Pier monster dancefloor favourite. When it's true status became known, it soon became Wigan Casino anthem. So much so, it featured in that 1977 wonderfully unbiased Tony Palmer "This England" TV documentary about Wigan Casino.
The discover this NS classic in perfect condition is a discovery indeed.
On auction today, not just because we love repeating the story of Poke and his "unknown", that somebody somewhere still owns today as "Vicki Anderson" "I'm Too Tough For Mr. Big Stuff" mispress that played a pounding slab of girl-vocal Northern Soul, going viral across the allniters of England.
A listing for those of you accumulating the NS anthems in the best possible condition. They don't come no cleaner than this slab of perfection.
Condition Report
A flawless Manship Mint.
Dean Courtney
I'll Always Need You / Tammy - MANSHIP MINT
RCA : 47-9049 DJ (45s)
A NS anthem from this highly regarded artist.
a recording woven into the very fabric of Northern Soul .. timeless and so very much loved.
In 2019 to find a mint unplayed copy is more than remarkable.
Condition Report
MINT unplayed
Jackie Trent
You Baby / Send Her Away
Pye : 7N 17047 (45s)
One of England’s most accomplished female singers compliments the classic big production also recorded by The Ronettes, Len Barry, Lovenotes, John Holt, The Turtles to name but a few. Right from the off you just know this is gonna be the best version. Certainly gives up the greatest Northern Soul impact, compared to all the takes of this great song.
A thundering drum onslaught collides with a regal fanfare of trumpets, immediately capturing your attention. It’s potency harnessed by Jackie’s rich voice displaying the ultimate control and clarity of the lyrics, and we have Northern Soul lift off. No wonder this recording became an instantaneous Wigan Casino Monster! Imagine that hollowed hall resounded to the fullness of Soulful Britishness.
But that is not all, turn it over for the genius of Tony Hatch who writes and produces a wicked girl “group” Northern Soul dancer for his future wife on the flipside. Both songs strongly featured at all the 70’s Northern Soul all-nighters, so much so, in 1978 the Wigan dedicated label “Casino Classics” issued them both on label's 4th release.
Pye 7N 17047 is the only way to respectfully DJ or collect it and very RARE in this exceptional, near perfect condition...
Do not pass over, this is one of our greatest home-grown offerings to Northern Soul.
Condition Report
Exceptional condition, vinyl only revealing the merest sleeve contact hairlines under direct light, as you can hear it plays perfect. Two unblemished labels, 4 prong die-cut centre intact, still housed in birth-sleeve.
Star-Treks
Gonna Need Magic / Dreamin'
Veep: V 1254 DJ (45s)
Bob Finiz, was such a gifted lyricist, is joined by former teen-idol Neil Brian. Between them they conjure up lyrics of girl rivalry, transmitting smug confidence. Sending out the message "her boy is not gonna take a blind bit of notice of her opposition"; no matter how hard she tries to look gorgeous. The song is littered with cutting lines, girl-bitchiness and outrageous self-belief. Running at the same pace and rhythms as "Girl Across The Street" Finiz lifts the production yet another notch with scything strings and battering percussion. Finiz and his huge contribution to Northern Soul with his skill for building an arrangement. His guided by "jingle king" Bob Lowden who peppers the flow with searing strings and 12 bore drumming. It slowly rises up and beyond your first expectations.
This is absolutely brilliant Northern Soul that has snoozed for too long; the occasional stirrings or lifting it's head off the pillow is not enough for this wonderful sleeper. It requires a DJ with influence and persistence and this tune will be a monster at the Weekender and allniters across the country.
Who actually are the Star-treks has never been made clear to me, but they are, on this showing (their only 45 release) certainly every note as accomplished as the Sapphires, Three Degrees, Sherrys etc or any other girl-group from the city of Brotherly (not sisterly) Love.
PS the flipside is great also..
Condition Report
Tiny date on flipside label 2-27-67, a-side label is totally clean. Vinyl reveals only the merest of sleeve storage hairlines, as you can hear it plays beautifully clean. What a tune!
Sally Leigh
To Each Other / When You Return
Sherwood: 1002 (45s)
An impressive sweet Teen vocal backed by an uncredited girl group, tight harmonies with hints of Folk music running through the production. As far as we are aware this is Sally Leigh's only record on this abandoned label.
If you're a fan of Teen or Folk British 45's do not come any rarer than this, reputedly less tan 100 ever pressed 54 years ago. To find a copy outside the UK or even away from the county of Nottinghamshire is highly unlikely as this endangered vinyl-species has only had a couple of internet sightings in the past 25 years.
One for those collectors seeking 45s nobody else owns..
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong centre intact, vinyl a-side is strong mint minus only reveals only the merest storage hairline. flipside vinyl has one light mark on a otherwise near perfect ladscape.
Igo Levi
Soul Captive / version
71 Records : DM 7120 (45s)
Strong social message of injustice, as Devon portray the Jamaican populace is imprisoned by the "system" His point comes over loud and clear on a wave of thumping percussion, decorated by slick plectrum work and a vocal validation from the male choruses.
This is one muscular demonstration, matching the message with an uncompromising instrumentation leaving you in no doubt that Devon is feeling social oppression.
Strong, to the point and highly effective Roots, no wonder so many collectors are chasing a clean copy.
Two flawless labels, vinyl only reveals the mildest of sleeve storage hairlines when angled in the light.
Condition Report
As noted in the review above.
Wee
Try Me / Teach Me How
Owl : WMO 2 DJ (45s)
A favourite dance inducer with everyone who has an appreciation of independent 70's Soulful dance.
In the heat and temptation of 1976, of firing off a Disco-dancer in the studio; you have to respect a group who resist all commercial pressures and perform a masterpiece of dance-Soul with not monetary note played in the whole session. Just the most imploring vocal, trying to convince a girl to give him a try.. she must surely have done, no-one could not have warmed to his beautifully portrayed desires. Or his teammates who follow his every plea with seamless validation.
Vocally exceptional, so silky smooth, even though the lead voice is begging his heart out. So authentic, he gives up an urgent vision of attraction without sounding desperate. He knows what he wants and is craving for the chance..
Truly superior 70's Soul that has captivated the dancers of the selective Rare Soul events around Europe for many years, with no sign of downturn in the huge desire for ownership.
Top quality never fades, and this 45 is TOP QUALITY!
With it's rarity beginning to make a few people "plead" nearly as convincingly as the singer.
Condition Report
Two completely clean promo labels,
Tennors
Ride Your Donkey / I've Got To Get You Off My Mind
Island : WI 3133 (10")
"Ride Your Donkey " was a such a popular "Blues Party" play in the late 60's, it is really rare to encounter an unblemished copy.
After all the first thing you did before going to the party was to write your name on the label or even both labels. So there was a better chance of it coming home with you. Second thing you did, was remove the sleeve if I still had one, then stacked it onto the Dansette Record Player. Waiting until it's turn in the 8 became. Danced to it and then waited for the next 8 choices to be stacked on the spindle. The first 8 were thrown on the carpet and this process would continue all night. Sleeveless records all over the floor, shuffle and reshuffled until the early hours and home you went with your scratched up favourite singles, never giving condition a second thought.
No wonder the opportunity of finding a near mint 60's Reggae 45 is one of the hardest challenges whilst collecting SKA/Rock Steady singles.
They were made to party with and that's exactly what happened. Today mist Reggae 45 collectors expect defaced or graffiti plagued labels, push-out centres removed and multi-scarred playing surfaces.
This listing is aimed at the discerning collector / DJ who strives for the rare conditions..
This classic is in rare condition. Check out the glowing condition report.
Condition Report
Two crisp clean, like new labels. Four prong push-out centre intact. Forensic vinyl inspection reveals only minuscule sleeve storage hairlines under direct light. STill housed in "glossy" finish wavy-top birth sleeve. Of course it plays perfect!
Crystals
He's A Rebel / 1963 UK press
London : HA 8120 (LP)
Besides presenting one of the most-iconic albums covers of the 60's this; platter also gives up Phil Spector on the crest of a wave, heading towards immortality as a production methods were to be christened the "Wall Of Sound" in 1964. A more apt description Andrew Loog Oldham could not have conjured up and the term stuck. Spector on his 6 year apprenticeship at the controls, improved, enriched his productions to such a level this album was considered a benchmark in the "girl-group" sound, complimented with the pop-art "motorbike" cover, which is just as collectable as the music itself.
Bristling with "Brill Building" power, that involves all the young bright talents from that New York oasis of lyricists, arrangers and producers. Up and coming talents like Jerry Goffin, Carole King, Gene Pitney, Cythia Weil, Barry Mann, Doc Pomus, Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller, Leo McCorkle etc. Plus tracks written or co-written by Phil Spector himself.
A sumptuous array of talent came to together on this project, with quality emerging from each and every groove. The title track "He's A Rebel" from the pen of Gene Pitney, through to the now highly controversial "He Hit Me" (and it felt like a kiss). Softened by the romantic "He's Sure The Boy I Love" and the exciting "Uptown" etc. This is one of the greatest female albums of the last century.
Near impossible to acquire at this level of condition... never coming to market as the reluctance to ever sell is as strong as it ever was.
Condition Report
Two clean "plum" labels, all silver text crisp and bright. Only the finest signs of spindle trail visible by angling in the light. The vinyl reveals only the finest, light hairlines under direct light and play superb (listen), all housed in original rice-paper lined original inner sleeve. Coming to the eye-popping cover, is in immaculate condition, free of stains, writing, discernible creases or any other devakluing flaw. Vinyl is excellent, labels are Excellent plus. Laminated cover back and front are mint minus. It's a beauty!
Majestics
( I Love Her So Much ) It Hurt Me / Girl Of My Dreams
Linda : 121 DJ (45s)
How could it? With that starting-gun, fanfare of trumpets recognised as a NS call to arms, rise to your feet and find some space to express yourself.
So uplifting, so instant, a driving force propelled by a barrage of brass and soaring group vocals melding into one completely unforgettable slab of Northern Soul. It is a tune you take home in your head every time the DJ refreshes your memory of its explosive qualities, blasting you onto your feet.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL - and this copy is flawless!
If you love old-style transitional vocal-group ballads get a listen to the rich vocals on the flipside "Girl Of My Dreams " echoes Low Rider romance.
Condition Report
Beautifully clean Mint minus vinyl with two unblemished labels yellow and red promo labels...irresistible!
Roosevelt Grier
In My Tenement / Down So Long - MANSHIP MINT
R.I.C. : S 112-64 DJ (45s)
Love from the concrete jungle - “In My Tenement” Rosey's finest Northern Soul offering, in perfect condition.
New York's Bobby Scott and Artie Resnick bring the "Brill Building" conceived "Big City Sound" to your door.
A mighty tune in unbelievable condition!
Condition Report
MANSHIP MINT
Ann Heywood
Crook His Little Finger / Everything Under The Sun - MANSHIP MINT
Hondo: H 100 (45s)
Two great sides - top drawer girl Northern Soul - which ever side you drop the arm on.
In Mint unplayed condition.. two perfect labels still housed its in birth-sleeve.. it don't get no better than this!
Perfection!
Condition Report
Mint unplayed!
Offspring
Windfall / She Lives In A Big House
RCA: 2198 (45s)
No wonder there's a huge underground following for this 1972 rarity. Both sides are top quality early 70's Prog, that sits under most Prog collectors radar as there's never been an album to alert them of this accomplished group's talent.
Take a listen to the lead side "Windfall" it has everything a top drawer Prog recoding should have. Jingling acoustic guitar intro, beseeching lead vocal skips through the pulsating rhythms with group choruses lifting the song before an excellent flute solo elevates the song to another level. from there on in, the song is showered with haunting vocals, more flute breaks, and precise keyboard rhythms. creating a calming atmosphere of high quality Prog.
The flipside the level of excellence is just as impressive, two very strong sides.
a 45 that leaves the listener thinking who were these guys, the prolific Mike Smith was producing and why just one 45?
Condition Report
Flawless! Previously unplayed copy sdtill housed in its birth-sleeve
Sue Lynne
Don't Pity Me / You
RCA : 1822 (45s)
This 1969 Brit 45, completely failed upon release, only to be discovered during the frenzied rifling of market stalls, second hand shops in Manchester where Dave McCadden & Steve "Sis" Sayle accually found a copy each at different locations. It was taken to Wigan Casino that weekend for it's first airing. A few others were discovered as word spread, by those relentless countrywide hoards trying to discover the next big tune for the scene that was an exclusive English release. Joining Jason Knight - Love Is Getting Stronger, Kiki Dee - On A Magic Carpet Ride, Tammy St. John - Nobody Knows What's Going On In My Mind But Me, Lorraine Silver - Lost Summer Love, Jackie Trent - You Baby etc. etc. British built songs that nose-dived upon release but had become Northern Soul club favourites, they were out there, they just had to be found. The rest is NS history.
The Sue Lynne "find" was an instant allniter hit...to witness drinks parked on the tables, seats vacated and the dancefloor swell to the point of spilling over on the carpeted perimeter.. was a sight to behold. But nothing like the gaggle of beautiful girls elevating their skirts in spinning delight... arms raised and those spinning dolls of desire concentrated every man's eyes in the room.
Near 45 years later this 45 has become a very challenging disc to find, especially in fine clean condition...those hoards of crate-digging optimistic Soulies have long since been dispirited by 10,000th orange RCA by the Archies or Elvis 45 they have momentarily paused over..
Today this is a RARE offering but still provokes the same explosive dancefloor response...
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong centre still intact, vinyl reveals only the merest of sleeve contact hairlines.
Charles Johnson
Never Had A Love So Good / Baby I Cried, Cired, Cried
Alston : ALSX 3751 (45s)
We ordered a box full, upon Record Corner's recommendation. In just one week from John Manship Records, 33 Nottingham Street, Melton Mowbray sold 25 copies from it's new release page at £1.25p each.
The raw quality of this Horace Straws and Snoopy Dean composition immediately caught the attention of the Northern Soul DJ's. Then word of mouth and a sales c90 cassette recording, saw us quickly run out of stock. The next week we put in a re-order for 50 but Record Corner were completely sold out. In less than 7 days Charles Johnson had become the most in-demand new release on the scene. Our phone was ringing off the hook as Dj's pushed this addictive Miami dancer. The Northern Soul crowd were loving it and demand was hotting up.
Record Corner and every other Soul dealer were trying to get this 45 back into stock. We even tried calling TK Productions but the warehouse was empty of this title and they never repressed. So from humble beginnings a Northern Soul rarity was born, rising in value and demand year on year ever since.
Today it rockets me back to those exciting days when new releases were sometimes just a fleeting moment of opportunity, you had to be quick and order the optimum amounts the first time round. As a second chance to re-order was often not available.
In recent times finding this 45 in the wild, is an almost unheard of event, even the single sided stereo/mono promo "Baby I Cried, Cired, Cried " is a tough disc to find. But the Deep Soul fans adore the "Sam Dees-esque" ballad that was unsuccessfully pushed as the a-side.. today this side sounds like a Sunday chill-out essential.
Read the condition report as this may be an opportunity to own a massively wanted classic at an affordable price. There is a dull background thud at 1 minute 20 seconds caused by a mild pressing flaw, this does NOT detract from enjoyment of this magnificent song and we doubt the dancefloor or the DJ would ever noticed. But if you are OCD about fidelity check out the soundfiles lifted directly off this disc.
Condition Report
Read careky and liste ti the sound file . Althoungh the vinyl is flawless, NOTE There is a dull background thud at 1 minute 20 seconds caused by a mild pressing flaw, this does NOT detract from enjoyment of this magnificent song and we doubt the dancefloor would ever noticed. But if you are OCD about fidelity check out the soundfiles lifted directly off this disc presented in its birth sleeve.
Gene Chandler
Mr. Big Shot / I Hate To Be The One To Say
Constellation : C-172 (45s)
Washington collides with Chicago, as "Shrine" pupils Keni St. Lewis & Carl Kidd write inspirational lyrics, which Sonny Sanders decorates with honkin' horns, Mike Terry-esque Baritone Sax burps, vibes, split in two by an insane saxophone attack. This is KITCHEN SINK Northern Soul cram-packed with all the instruments we adore, led by a highly qualified lead vocal, considerate male harmony chorus.. proper stomper to remind us what Northern Soul really is.. exciting, motivational, escapism into an unparalleled world of music.
So good, we could easily not even bother to mention the flipside...except for the fact, it's simplistic "Eddie Foster" styled intro takes you by the hand leading you through a Northern Soul dancer that is in it's own right, equally as brilliant, I can only describe it as Gene Chandler's second best Northern Soul offering, after "Big Shot"
Gene Chandler's two finest NS recordings both conjured up by Carl Kidd & Keni Lewis and saturated in "Shrine" qualities, offered here in fine clean condition.
What's not to love.. ?
Condition Report
Two clean labels, vinyl reveals on the mildest of sleeve storage hairlines under direct light, as you can hear both sides play crisp clean and flawless
Lee Perry
Wishes Of The Wicked / Hold Down
Ska Beat : JB 212 (45s)
Classic style SKA with both sides benefiting from a consummate lead vocal, supported by a squealing girl chorus and a highly accomplished trumpeter stealing the show.
Mid-60's British release Ska Beat 45s at this level of condition, performed by one of Jamaica's icons are so very hard to find.
Listen and spy this highly collectable disc.
Condition Report
two perfectly clean labels, 4 prong die-cut centre fully intact. Vinyl reveals only a few very minor hairlines under direct light. This is an all-round top condition copy
50's Record Carry Case
Vintage Crocodile Skin styled, stiched seams / 100 count 45s two lanes of 50
no label: no # (Book)
Here is a stunning authentic example. The real deal USA made100 count handle case, that have become so damn hard to acquire. Check out that design, shimmering with the huge "cool" for the "porter" of such a case to display and transport their rare sales 45's or DJ discs in.
This example is particularly beautiful, top quality vinyl crocodile skin effect, contrasting cream sided angled lid. The crocodile effect is carried over onto the top. Large stitched thread borders, metal catch and hinges, sturdy casing that has so far lasted 60 years or more were no signs of deterioration. Strong brown plastic-injection mould swing handle held in place by metal clasp. Finished off and beautifully lined with red vinyl and hard red vinyl covered divider. A head-turning, conversation-starting slab of vinAge!
This is without question of the classiest, most attractive vintage 45 carry case we've ever offered for sale.
An ideal surprise Christmas gift for the lover of all things vinyl and vintage, with an eye for the exquisitely rare.
Condition Report
Only very light signs of wear, Way better than normal wear and tear your expect for this 60 year old case. A strong clean excellent with no flaws worthy of a mention.
Superbs
On A Day When It's Raining / Spoonful
Dore : 753 DJ (45s)
So elusive, we unashamedly admit this is the very first copy we have ever listed; This is the former "Meadowlarks" cover-up for one of Europe's most-respected DJs who’s taste has always been impeccable.
I must admit this is also my type of sound, liquid male vocals crocheted into a considerate rhythmic Northern Soul dance arrangement, ensuring the backing doesn't "drown" those silky distilled voices, as they seamlessly roll out another fine Bobby Swayne set of lyrics.
An inventive Lew Bedell production adds gentle unobtrusive "lightning" and "Heavy Rain" sound effects into the mix, underlining this session is all about the voices. Blended so exquisitely, so very deserving of the "Meadowlarks" cover-up christening. Unless you've heard Britain's top-rare-soul-DJ regularly over the last 3 decades it is quite likely this is the first time you've encountered this 45 rippling with understated brilliance coming from the Dore release. During Ace/Kent’s extensive release program of the Dore catalog it did sneak,out on the flipside of “I Wanna Do It With You”.
Here's a listing for those serious collectors seeking the real-deal rarities and those of you wishing to emulate the high standards set by others whilst playing one-off discoveries. So rare that only 4 copies have surface for sale in over 20 years.
Personally I think this tune is awesome, but I've always had a bias towards for vocal-group Northern Soul, especially the "impossible" ones.
Listen and absorb it’s “street-corner” brilliance and be aware we are unlikely to ever list this 45 on Dore ever again, it is indeed that rare!
Condition Report
light surface marks revealed under direct light, plays well with only an occasional low-fi tick along the way (listen). label although free of writing or tears it does have very mild storage wear (see images.)
Don Ray
Born A Loser / Living On a Prayer, A Hope And A Hand-Me-Down MANSHIP MINT
RCA : 47-9438 DJ (45s)
Whether it be the school of Wigan Casino or college Cleethorpes Pier you attended during your formative years; the moment this drum intro flips over to that whistling organ,you are transported back to high-waisted baggy trousers, sweats shirts adorned with time honoured Soul Club-patches, letting the surrounding dancers know you were indeed time-served.
For some maybe, this Northern Soul anthem is too blue-eyed, I mean I love Soul music but I always like to be treated to the occasional tune that sparks euphoric-NS-recall, as those wonder-years need replenishing in my mind from time to time. For me it evokes visions of Nev Wherry DJing, he wore his sweat shirt with pride, he like a baggy trouser too; and this style of Northern Soul fitted his preferred choice of music also. Upbeat feel-good Northern Soul where the colour of the artists skin never crossed Nev's mind. He was after all a champion of the rare British release Northern Soul dancers. He'd usually brandish that love, with a sparkling Demo copy revolving around the Cleethhorpes Winter Gardens turntables..
Not wishing to start a internet debate but some of the greatest Northern Soul productions of all time were recorded by white guys Paul Anka, Bobby Paris, Jerry Fuller and Don Ray is right up there with them with his imposing voice, effective lyrics and inspiring production..
Just love a tune that takes you back.. and Don does that.. good to see you again Nev.
Condition Report
MA|NSHIP MINT - flawless unplayed still in it's birth sleeve.
Moving Sidewalks
99th Floor / What Are You Going To Do?
Tantara : T-3101 (45s)
The rare first local label before it's brief release on Wand, the band's first 45 after gathering an impressive local fanbase in Houston, Texas. This was to be the beginnings of ZZ Top, guitarist Billy Gibbons, first step into the music business writing and starring in both sides of this debut single. A stepping stone that would take him all the way to forming ZZ Top in late 1969.
But this wicked 45 is so much more than just a ZZ Top collectable, it is a wicked Garage growler currently cramming the floors at MOD ad R&B events. Spectacular guitar breaks punctuate the snarling lead vocal until an insane harmonica joins the fray. Powerful, uncompromising Garage, proving to be completely perfect for the MOD circuit
"99th Floor" is an essential DJ tune for the MOD events, but do not overlook the equally impressive flipside; also filled with accomplished but aggressive fuzz guitar dominance, with a suitably gnarled lead voice.
Two proper tunes, on it's seldom seen first local press.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, no writing, no tears, stains just mild storae rub (see label images). The vinyl surface reveals multiple mild marks, none affecting play; listen as the music is always the dominant fporce./
Garland Green
Girl I Love You / It Rained Forty Days And Nights - MANSHIP MINT
Revue : R-11001 (45s)
Shelley Fisher's original song seamlessly elevated by two of the greatest 60's Soul technicians of the time; Mike Terry and Joshie Jo Armstead again collaborated on two standout NS recordings.
"Girl I Love You" epitomizes the change in direction some of the superior independent productions were taking towards the close of the 60's. Lush zipping strings, considerate cultured horns, rhythmic percussion laying down a foundation for an equally rich vocal to stroll through. A different soulfully cultured style of Rare-Soul-Dance, the British scene christened it "Northern Soul Crossover", championed by DJ's like Richard Searling at ground-breaking clubs like "Parkers" in Manchester. For me and many others this is the one of the finest, most captivating examples of that genre. So good, I've never tired of listening or dancing to it's warming glow of Soul over the decades.
Don't get me wrong I still adore the classic patterns of real deal Northern Soul, blasting-brass, trembling bass-guitar, stabbing away at each other, providing a persuasive platform to get onto the floor. All you have to do to enjoy that classic style, is to flip it over. "It Rained 40 Days And Nights" gives you all that dancefloor encouragement and more..
Not to mention that both sides are adorned by the unparalleled crooning of the great Garland Green, one of my favourite Soul voices of the last century..
This 45, musically has everything.. does it not? including and an eye-popping vision of unplayed perfectness..
Condition Report
MANSHIP MINT unplayed housed in birth sleeve.
LaBrenda Ben and The Beljeans
The Chaperone / Camel Walk
Gordy: G-7009 (45s)
Destined to fail, as the avalanche of Motown hits rumbled over the top of her... George Fowler left to concentrate of the Divinity division this too would cease to exist by 1964... with Divinity artists like Liz Lands moving over to Gordy.
It seems to be the luck of the draw, if you became a Motown star or not, nobody could ever deny LaBrenda had one hell of a voice and indeed the shrill Beljeans had all that Motown chorus delivery exactly right. It was to no avail. George left on the Motown peripherals, picking up some work with the multitude of local labels in need of his expertise. LaBrenda however completely disappeared, becoming one of those mysteriously undocumented Motown artists.
Thank heavens for the Northern Soul scene, always on the lookout for a great tune undeservedly passed over.. "The Chaperone" is one super-cool early Motown dancer shimmering with all the qualities for dancefloor take-off. Currently enjoying the peak of Northern Soul popularity, huge demand for this 45 in Europe has guaranteed both George Fowler and LaBrenda Ben will never be forgotten.
BUt there's more history puzzles if you flip it over for a quick remake of Saundra Mallett's and The Vandellas "Camel Walk" Tamla 54067 which never really made it past the pressing plant door. As Sandra went on to better things, to become an integral part of The Elgins. Leaving Martha Reeves to take over the Vandellas-baton and run with it.
Two great sides one elusive disc.
Condition Report
Two squeaky clean labels, no bb drill. Flawless play perfect vinyl that only reveals the merest of storage hairlines under direct light. NIce copy indeed.
Greater Experience
Don't Forget To Remember / Carol's Carol - MANSHIP MINT
Colony 13: 2572 (45s)
Extra strong MINT!
An Arthur Fenn discovery that remains as wanted today as when it first emerged at Cleethorpes Winter Gardens near 4 decades ago.
Proper Northern Soul in perfect condition
Condition Report
Totally flawless mint unplayed, still housed in birth-sleeve
Volumes
I Just Can't Help Myself / One Way Lover
American Arts : AA-18 DJ (45s)
A delicious double helping of Detroit from the desk of "The Duke". Subtly constructed vocal group brilliance, with hints of Latin favoured brass and guitar entwining for the perfect landscape for cultured, precise male vocal harmonizing to spring from. This was the group's 8th 45 their honed teamwork shows, as coherent tightly knit voices take to the air as one!
An exceptional example of the Northern Soul male group sound, with not even a hint of any Motown influences diluting its authentic street-corner energy. This neighbourhood atmosphere is again amplified on the flipside as "One Way Lover" pours out pure Soul woven into similar horn, percussion and guitar back up. with the lead vocal in particularly poignant mood.
Both sides offer the type of stand-out tune you just cannot tire of hearing, especially if the sound quality is squeaking clean, crisp and true. A trait so rarely experienced with this title, as most copies suffer from 45 years of traveling the Northern Soul circuit, this copy has come straight from USA and yet to meet a NS turntable.
Condition Report
Two clean red text label, play perfect vinyl only reveals light hairlines under direct light, none of which react with the stylus. listen to the crisp clean double soundfile. .
Nora Dean / The Brons
Barbwire / Calypso Mana
Trojan : TR 7735 (45s)
Nora's shrill singing immediately takes to the air, an attention seeking vocal you just can't turn away from. Her voice brilliantly answered by another sister's voice.
"He's Got Barbwire, In His Underpants" is the cheeky message from two convincing girl vocal.
The novelty penny whistle "Calsypso" flipside is worth a listen, as it evokes visions of life the bustling streets of Kingston, underling the rich diversity of the Trojan label.
Condition Report
Full gloss vinyl reveals light surface marks, none of which affect play. listen to the crisp n'clean soundfile lifted from the disc. 4 prong centre fully intact, labels have small initials K S written, see images take. Flipside surface has heavier surfaces a
Johnny Mae Matthews
I Have No Choice / That's When It Hurts
Big Hit : TZ 105 (45s)
In short, simply one of the most magnificent Northern Soul recordings of all time! Now wove into the very fabric of the scene.
Click the soundfile prepare to shiver, swoon, shudder and salivate under overwhelming emotion Johnny Mae effortlessly emits. ..
Vinyl-regret awaits anyone not willing to go the extra mile to own this superlative masterpiece...
Northern Soul does not get any better than this...but you knew that already...
Soul Sam's last record at Great Yarmouth Soul Essence weekenders ... perfect ender as this surely epitomises "The Essence Of Soul"
Condition Report
Two clean labels, see images.. Vinyl reveals light surface marks but plays clean, crisp and clean. See images, listen to the soundfile lifted directly off this disc. Visually vg+ plays EX+, .
Gloria Irving and the Swinging Sax Kari Orchestra
Daughter (That's Your Red Wagon) / Down For Debbie
States : S-115 (45s)
Sax Kari dismissive composition, warning his daughter to stay from her "no good man" who has latched onto her, the snarling voice of Gloria Irving tells the story of "Dad" advice to his offspring. Not my problem, that's your "Red Wagon Now". A really cool message, delivered by one very sassy lady.
Gloria went on to record that heavy big money R&B want "I Need A Man" on Cobra, much commoner than this release from 4 years earlier. So get a listen European R&B DJ's, this rare shaker has the potential to emulate her more-available Cobra 45 is glaring. As Gloria displays her ability to strut and boom a tune.
The lyrics "That's Your Red Wagon" comes from the habit of young children pulling "Tin Red (trollies) Wagons" behind them through the neighbourhood filling them up with worthless things to take home. Sax Kari lyrics are hit home good and hard by his brazen vocalist, paused by a killer sulking saxophone break from the great man himself. Swinging Sax Kari knows how to weald an instrument. Underlining Gloria's error of filing her life with useless things.
VERY RARE 45 in standout condition - saturated in untapped potential.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, the 66 year old vinyl is amazing glossy clean, revealing only very fine
Sunlovers
You'll Never Make The Grade / This Love Of Ours - MANSHIP MINT
Mutt & Jeff : 18 (45s)
Mint Unplayed
Perfect Vinyl
Perfect Labels
Condition Report
MINT
Volcanos
Gotta Be a Flase Alarm / Movin' And Groovin'
Harthon : VOL 138 (45s)
Del Sharh aka Carl Fisher had a long and fruitful association with the Volcanoes writing such greats as "Storming Warning" "It's Against The Laws Of Love" whilst carrying on a writing & singing career with The Vibrations...this man had a penchant for a Northern Soul stomper, he created so many. This his rarest contribution to NS, is ironically also his most potent and least heard. This time his writings are harnessed to a blistering Harthon production... so buckle up and expect a hair-raising ride onto the Northern Soul dancefloor.
A whirlpool of full-on brutal brass, a burping Mike Terry sax peppers the background, a piccolo heightens the arrangement as squealing voices take to air, then the introduction of a trombone adds yet another layer to an already spectacular arrangement. You have to listen to it more than once to take in everything that's going on in the orchestral masterpiece laced with insistent male voices.
Utterly brilliant real-deal Northern Soul with a searing vocal group harmony performance from the Northern Soul text book... one of the most neglected Northern Soul allniter greats of all time.. has rarity again keot it away from influential DJ sets?
FUNK fans check out the James Bynum flipside of duelling horns and persistent percussion another solid no-holds-barred Harthon production.
Two top-sides one very tricky 45 to acquire in this fine clean condition.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, vinyl revealing only a few feeble hairlines under direct light. plays as you can hear clean, crisp and true.
Beverly Ann
You've Got Your Mind On Other Things / Until You - MANSHIP MINT
RCA : 47-9468 DJ (45s)
Another great Lee Porter and Ronnie Miller Northern Soul classic, so very classic in fact, it requires no lengthy review from us..
The moment you clicked the soundfile - visions of vested muscular dancefloor gymnasts invade your head with backdrops, spins and splits. Yet again igniting lustful-recall of spiralling circle skirts making their ascent up the young thighs of Soul girls in rapture..(I know I should stop mentioning it)
... was it only me in the 70's who went to the allniters for more than just the music?
A record with the power to paint vivid dancefloor memories of tangible Northern Soul dancefloor euphoria ..and all the fashions, style and exuberance that went
Condition Report
MINT previously un played vinyl, nice clean labels, just the merest of tiny sticker residue darkening on the a-side top left. Scrutinize the label image for this freckle on it's glorious perfection.
Seven Letters
Flour Dumpling / Equality
Doctor Bird : DB 1195 (45s)
Condition Report
4 prong push-out centre removed, name in red marker on a-side label. B-side label is clean
Sam Dees
Lonely For You Baby / I Need You Baby - MANSHIP MINT
SSS International : SSS 732 (45s)
MINT UPLAYED COPY!
Of this timeless Northern Soul classic that needs no elevating words from me. The iconic intro of the rhythmic drum tapping, blends seamlessly with booming bass guitar plucks, beckoning the pianist to bang out some arousing key notes... for the most-inviting of all Northern Soul starts, an uncompromising dancefloor-detonator unfolds instantly igniting your DJ set. Perfectly in time as the room becomes a heaving mass of shoulder to shoulder euphoria...Sam Dees's commanding gnarled vocal shudders the speakers..
After that....Mr. DJ the room is yours..
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL !!!
and some..
Deep Soul devotees will already of course, be aware of the crucial flipside.
Condition Report
MINT UNPLAYED
Tammi Terrell
Irresistible / 1968 USA white demo
Motown : MS 652 DJ (LP)
This much-loved and solitary Tammi Terrell album released less than 2 years before her tragic, untimely death at the tender age of 24 years of age. Robbing the Soul World and Motown their most photogenic and sincere female vocalist. Her death sending Marvin Gaye into a deep mourning that triggered one the greatest albums ever made, when he created "What's Going On" with Tammi very much in his mind.
This LP leaves all other Motown vocalists in the shade of has the pureness of her voice demands your 100% attention. With Harvey Fuqua & Johnny Bristol rich productions cradling this lady from one standout tune to another.
From as Northern Soul standpoint there are few better Motown NS dance tune than the LP only; "Tears At The End Of A Love Affair" or the slick "Come On And See Me", her electrifying version of "This Old Heart Of Mine" or her least known Northern Soul dancer "I Can't Stop Now" plus the stunning mid-paced NS stroller "Just Too Much To Hope For" beautifully dovetailing into the next two tracks..with "I Can't Go On Without You" a killer sad song to finish this magnificent album with.
making it truly ... IRRESTISTIBLE!
Condition Report
Two clean white PROMO labels, vinyl reveals only the merest storage hairline under direct light. Mint minus vinyl that plays completely flawless all housed in the original inner sleeve. The heart-stopping cover, reveals only light storage rub. scrutinized the images provided. if you can take your eyes off that rare vista of the promo label.
Seattle Pure Dymomite
I Wonder Love / I Wanna Love You (Let Me Love You)
One World Records : no # (45s)
The group's debut single, was such a naïve affair as they dipped their toes into releasing their very own 45. The band completely forgot the to give the release a label number, with little idea of how to promote it. This fabulous disc just fell through the cracks of the music world into instant obscurity. Today it is rarely heard or seen for sale. But we consider it as a sleeping giant...a snoozing jewel just waiting for the right DJ to present it.
A classy blend of Crossover Northern Soul with hints of it's more modern roots. The pleading lead vocal is cradled by a gathering of shrill girls as the quintet enrich proceedings with subtle horns and Jazzy/Funk guitar interludes.. this is real CLASS! Bravely ignoring all the disco influences flooding North America the end product leaves you crabbing for another listen. I'm on my 4th consecutive play and I'm loving it more and more on ever drop.
Perched and ready for Sunday chill exposure and beyond... after far to little exposure when first discovered for such Soulful quality...
Condition Report
Two clean labels a light biro tick on the official a-side for Radio Station direction, vinyl reveals light surface marks, causing an occasional light tick, but certainly nothing to dissuade ownership.
Danny White
Cracked Up Over You / Taking Inventory MANSHIP MINT
Decca : 32048 DJ (45s)
a MANSHIP MINT especially selected for those of you stalking Northern Soul classic perfection.
a perfect copy of this timeless Memphis made Northern Soul monster
Condition Report
Two bright crisp flawless pink labels, unblemished vinyl revealing only forensic sleeve storage traces...
Thelma Houston
Baby Mine / The Woman Behond Her Man - MANSHIP MINT
Capitol : 5767 (45s)
Mint Unplayed - Perfect Vinyl
Perfect Labels
Condition Report
Manship's Mints for Christmas - Mint Unplayed - Perfect Vinyl - Perfect Labels
Jerry Cook
I Hurt On The Other Side / Take What I've Got
Capitol : P 5981 DJ (45s)
An utterly iconic slab of Northern Soul in it's least seen most wanted format...
A legendary 45 that inspired gymnastic overload on the dancefloors of The Catacombs, The Torch, The Mecca and every other pre-Wigan Casino Club with a DJ lucky enough to own a copy. It was at one stage the best loved stomper on the scene. Not only to dance to, but also on those lengthy forays north in our white transit, it triggered the Pork Pieville choir to bust into caterwauling choruses accompanied with synchronised arm waving in the cram-packed, mattress lined acoustic space called the back of our van.
Not exactly Carnegie Hall but we considered our singing along to" Simon Soussan's sales tape to be pure Northern Soul opera!
No other song at the time triggered this affect of near Welsh Male Voice Choir comradeship, it was not only an unforgettable Northern Soul moment, it actually became a Saturday excursion ritual. Nobody ever grew tired of hearing Jerry Cook's blistering voice, defiantly resounding Sidney Barnes & J. J. Jackson's man-in-denial lyrics.
" I Hurt On The Other Side, But I Cry In Solitude"
" I Hurt On The Other Side, But I Keep My Tears From View"
Northern Soul poetry riding a fanfare of brass and Arthur Writing insistent guitar pulses..
This is why 1000's and 1000's of teenagers travelled 100's of miles every weekend to hear this spine-tingling Soul music.. and have now spent the rest of their lives dedicated to it..
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL!... something unforgettably inspirational!
Condition Report
Two clean promo labels, vinyl reveals only fine soft surface hairlines under direct light. Plays crisp, clean loud and true.
Anthony & The Imperials
It's Not The Same / Down On Love - MANSHIP MINT
Veep : V 1248 (45s)
Little Anthony's most wanted, in perfect condition still inside birth-sleeve.
A floor-packer one in a long line of Northern Soul delights this man has given us.
Condition Report
MINT
Soul Twins
Quck Change Artist / blank - MANSHIP MINT
RCA : 10" acetate (10")
It is now a badge of honour to be able to crow, you own a "full set" of this most-attractive of late 70's labels.
So when an original 10" RCA studio acetate surfaces, reverberating with direct-cut sound quality. It's beyond-rare status and desirability will spark interest across the board.
A Detroit delight that was Golden Torch / Catacombs / Blackpool Mecca signature play.
A record that epitomized the very style of Northern Soul that allowed the caged Soul-Boy's heart to run-free; on an amphetamine driven frenzy dance-floor gymnastics. "Quick Change Artist" was the starting pistol for a spectacular vista of Northern Soul dancefloor athleticism. Head-grabbing spins, shoulder high backdrops, circle-skirt twirls and wide arm hand-clapping; jelled the dancers into one foaming mass of gyration.
THIS IS NORTHERN SOUL !
Detroit Northern Soul at it's most unforgiving, an unstoppable torrent of dance Soul. Then again, what would you expect from a Mike Terry and Ollie McLaughlin blowout.
This 1976 RCA 10" is it's rarest UK form... an rare opportunity to add to your "complete" Grapevine collection.
Condition Report
MINT!
Charles Farren
You've Changed My Whole Life Around / A Girl Like You
Hawk: 200 (45s)
The signature "Chicago" male vocal presence, had the bar already set high by Johnny Sayles, Syl Johnson, E. Rodney Jones etc. who's gnarled growls have became part of the Northern Soul allniter fabric. Charles Farren on this street-level session matches any booming voice you care to mention, magnificently propelled by honkin' horns makes for a truly imposing dancer... A 45 that is slowly but surely making an impact on the scene, after snoozing as an occasionally played choice to spice up an imaginative DJ set.
Today this Chicago statement has disappeared from view some years ago, now ideally perched for huge comeback. There is certainly no need to air inferior Northern Soul dancers whilst Chicago Soul-Salvos of this calibre wait in the wings..
Check out this potent onslaught of Northern Soul that would ignite such places as the trailblazing "Grumpy Soul" events into pandemonium...
If you love your Northern Soul with "Meat & Potatoes before you today is REAL DEAL NORTHERN SOUL that lovers of the Johnny Sayles style will not be able to resist!
Condition Report
Two flawless yellow labels, no fade, writing, or tears. Vinyl is very close to Mint minus, strong light reveal a few sleeve contact blemishes that do not affect plays. Visually EX+ plays Mint minus
Joe Bataan
Subway Joe / Nuevo Jala Jala - MANSHIP MINT
Fania: 455 (45s)
No introduction needed for this Joe's most-wanted dancefloor favourite...
except this copy is a miraculous MINT unplayed ... still housed in birth-sleeve.
Condition Report
MINT unplayed ... still housed in birth-sleeve.
Prowler
Alcatraz / So Lonely - MANSHIP MINT
SRT : 5 KS 368 (45s)
Made 1985 in my home town of Melton Mowbray where Ian Morrison, Rob Philpotts, Chris Vye & Steve Philpotts were considered the totem of East Midlands Heavy Rock. They had already recorded the massively sought after "Forgotten Angel" they pressed 2 years earlier 1000 copies to be sold at their gigs around the East Midlands. In my lifetime I have only ever seen two copies of that NWOBHR grail. Frustratingly hard to find, but I still every time I go into town I live in hope. .
Before you today is their second and last release under the name "Prowler", was a smaller press and sent to Red Rhino Records of York for distribution. Imagine the disappointment when such a great slab of small town Heavy Rock, allegedly sold a mere 33 copies. Prowler later went and changed their band name to Passion in 1988 releasing another strong N.W.O.B.H.R. experience.
"Alcatraz" is a NWOBHR trophy in the finest possible condition, MINT UNPLAYED with "Forghotten Angel" hurtling towards a 4 figure heavy rock collectable, at what price will "Alcatraz" rise to in the future..? Rising in value year on year as copies encountered becomes a rare event indeed.
Condition Report
MINT unplayed accompanied with a perfect unblemished picture cover. <br />
Various Artists
Wigan Casino 25th. Anniversary / 10 x 7" singles MANSHIP MINT
Goldmine Soul Supply: GS1000X (Book)
a flawless example of this 1998 10 x 45 box set offering 20 Northern Soul monsters back to back still in their perfect untouched picture covers.
Condition could not be finer, fir this 21 year old collectors piece.
See images for the complete track listing.
Condition Report
Mint unplayed vinyl, untouched picture covers, pristine unplayed vinyl. The box is as good as it gets revealing just he merest sign of careful storage.
Holly St. James
That’s Not Love / Two Good Reasons - MANSHIP MINT
ABC : 10996 DJ (45s)
an astonishing previously unplayed copy!
Beyond RARE!
Condition Report
MINT