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.
Micheal Jackson
If'n I Was God / Full length 4:00 minute version
EMI Abbey Road acetate: acetate (45s)
It's demonstrates Michael at his very best, vocally searing performance on a truly moving song from the prolific pen of Richard Morton Sherman. The song ulti;ized in the Broadway musical adaptation of Tom Sawyer. A huge production that surely would have a smash hit for Michael had Motown released it.
A super song, in a UNIQUE form giving up spine-tingling sound quality.
Way beyond RARE this is a unique "Michael" collectable of most serious kind..
Condition Report
Two clean handwritten labels, are otherwise clean. acetate surface reveals only the merest sleeve storage hairlines. Plays flawless as you can hear.
Soundbreakers
Try To Get Back To You / The Jerk Is Catching
Symbol : 220 (45s)
Although we must compliment, in more recent times; on occasions we have noticed a few DJs who think outside the box, dropping this killer into their sets... how very refreshing. AS I first encountered it back in 1972 when Brian 45 Philips listed it on those much anticipated Friday’s when his wonderful A4 pages dropped onto the carpet.
In those far off days Brain championed “The Jerk Is Catching” a wonderfully upbeat “jerk” dancer almost as captivating as the side we list first today.
As with all Henry “Juggy” Murray vocal group sessions “The Entertainers” “The Poets” etc. this his rarest of the 3 also ripples with tight soaring vocal bouncing off each other, woven into an uplifting 60’s Norther Soul dance arrangement.
You will, even after one hearing, be singing along with the addictively spirited lyrics. Then it creeps into under your skin..one play will never be enough for this endorphin triggering ear-worm. Once heard never forgotten...
We are predicting much bigger things for this tune, that was buried in the avalanche of all those killer Northern Soul 45s that rained down on us in 1972...
Today this tune is perfect for a long overdue renaissance... you have been warned. Now listen and prepared to become addicted.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, near perfect labels, only a few fine
Marty Lewis
I Can't Do Without You / Ain't Nobody's Business
Big Deal : 136 (45s)
Investment into rare New Orleans Northern Soul has never been stronger or indeed wiser.
Here is another fabulous Isaac Bolden creation that has now tantalized the Northern Soul collectors for decades. The instantaneous bass-guitar dance pulses, riddled with piano & vibes makes for an ideal exciting unexpected DJ drop. Marty's convincing voice, is full backed by an uncredited male vocal group "Hey Hey's" "squeals" and "shouts" converge into one muscular back-up.
Piano pulses, vibes, blaring brass, smooth male choruses, a intrusive lead vocal. This tune has it all; including validated serious rarity that was already long in place, way before a terrible natural disaster made New Orleans records so very much harder to acquire.
The flipside gives up a potent, Bluesy guitar infused FUNK dancer, featuring screaming horns, twangy plectrum rhythms, rattling drums all meld into one meaty slab of Crescent City Funk!
Two great sides, such a good looking rarity, especially snug inside it's equally elusive distributors sleeve.
Condition Report
Two clean labels. A-side vinyl is a strong clean, visually close to mint minus Excellent + plays flawless. Flipside vinyl carries a few light signs of turntable action, but this side also plays flawless
Freeman Bros. with Chuck Henley and His Climax
Groove Time / Come And Get These Memores
Jovial : 101 (45s)
Here is a seriously RARE slab of thumping R&B / Northern Soul. A New York born instrumental circa 1965, so incredibly rare this is a debutant to these pages.
This instrumental is so very "Mad Mike" style, especially when the insane sax-break crashes in, to take the recording right up into its wicked finale. Relentless brass bombards your space, then that merciless attack by the crazed saxophonist, lifting the session to an even greater level of destruction.
Mad Mike was way ahead of his time, driving a Rare Soul Dance in Pittsburgh scene in the parallel universe of Northern Soul, the Pittsburgh scene was equally vibrant. This 45 underlining it's no holds barred approach. If you're a DJ seeking an uncompromising instrumental to ignite your set, we can't recommend this explosive rarity enough.
as you ain't gonna see another in a hurry.. stand back and prepare to be blown of your feet.
This b-side hidden away on the reverse of an insipid take on a Motown classic "Come And Get These Memories" that sold nothing.
A 45 that would give an aspiring R&B DJ an edge...against the competition. A I am not, at this moment in time, aware of another copy in the UK
Condition Report
"Mad Mike" was renowned for writing his name on his 45 labels. But treating the playing surfaces with respect. See a-side label, flipside side label has an X. Vinyl is a string clean excellent throughout.
Sweets
Something About My Baby / Satisfy Me Baby
Soultown : 105 (45s)
Another early 70’s Simon Soussan discovery, that became such a giant allniter dancefloor detonater. After being spun by the intrepid Northants DJ Glen Bellamy among others. Simon soon commisssioned label owner Bobby Sanders to reissue the 45, with the previously unheard “instrumental” version on the flipside. The instrumental also for a time also rising up into Northern Soul folklore, when the NS instrumental was “king”. Thus today, the only way to own “Something About My Baby” is to track down, seek out, and be determined acquire the highly elusive original first press.
A seriously severe collector challenge.
Especially when it has the same production team and backing track as another Northern Soul Holy Grail “Sandy Golden - When We’re All Alone Tonight” - a 45 that commanded an astronomical winning bid the last time we listed it.
Strange really, as The Sweets original version not only carries superior vocals, they are elevated by full girl group harmony choruses, missing from the Sandy Golden version, and all driven by a muscular horn section; overall a much more convincing NS dance production.
The strange world of Northern Soul, when it offers the collectors & DJ’s a superior original version, but the cheaper option, only because the alternative version is decidedly rarer.
Here’s an opportunity to own a spectacular girl-group mid-tempo that was not conducive with the gymnastics of Wigan Casino in the 70’s, so sacrificed when the reissue was born. But during the shifting-sands tastes, is today considered a work of dancefloor-art.
How times have changed, leaving so many things for the serious Northern Soul classic collectors to ponder over, whilst today’s Northern Soul DJ’s will have no such hesitation over potential ownership of one of the finest mid-paced Girl-group creations of all time!
Backed up with rare top 500 thumping classic real-deal Northern Soul...what’s not to love.
Condition Report
Two flawless yellow labels, vinyl reveals only very fine sleeve storage hairlines angled in direct light. very close to mint minus - soundfile 197004
Alton Ellis
Too Late To Turn Back Now / version
Ackee : ACK 502 (45s)
Elton, is no stranger a standout Soul song and it shows as he creates his own most magnificent version.
Why on earth this session, a highly regarded Cornelius Brothers and Sister Rose classic, carries the writer credits as Clyde Otis instead of Eddie Cornelius; only the UK label knows. but this takes nothing away from th sumptuous quality of this Clive Chinn production. No wonder the Jamaican Mother label "Impact" have seen fit to reissue it several times.
Whether it be the Soul version or the Reggae interpretation it a truly great song, Eddie.
Condition Report
A flawless copy, still housed in it's original wavy-top sleeve
Various Artists
R&B Chart-Makers no. 3 / 1964 UK 4 track EP
Stateside: SE 1022 (EP)
Not only by far the hardest "Chart-Maker" EP to acquire but also carries the bonus of two standout Northern Soul tracks that never achieved release in the UK as singles.
2nd track side one, is the 1963 one-off amalgamation of The Marvelletes with The Andantes forming the experimental girl group guided by Holland - Dozier - Holland..
The Darnells - Too Hurt To Cry, Too Much In Love To Say Goodbye - as you'd expect the this dream-team gathering the song epitomises the girl group sound., that failed to sell in the USA which curtailed any further ventures into mixing up groups and rechristening them with an unknown name.
The 1st track side two is also a 1963 classic style Hitsville recording that never achieved a 45 issue in the UK. The gifted Motown lyricist who was achieving so much success with the HDH writing/producing trio he was soon to stop studio recording and live performances; committing fulltime to the pen.
The other two tracks of the four, require no word from me, they are of course rug-tearing Motown classic of the most energetic kind. Proper classic of their time.
So let's now move on to the primary reason for this EP coming to auction - it's all about
CONDITION, CONDITION, CONDITION! read the condition report below. This born in 1964 EP has never in my memory looked more immaculate ta it does today.. an exceptional copy awaits those TMG collectors quite rightly OCD about condition of their covers, labels and vinyl
Condition Report
Laminated flipback cover front, reflects uncreased full gloss mirror finish, not a laminate vein in sight.<br /> Back Cover is free of writing, creases, sticker or tear. Just a minuscule light age-browning stain top-right corner (see images) all 4 four corner-tips are sharp and pointed, NO dings.<br /> Both labels reveal no sign of turntable activity, no spindle trails, 4 prong centre in place, no dinking paper chards or hairline - as good as it gets <br /> The vinyl is a miraculous mint minus on both sides - just the merest sleeve storage blemish, revealed under intense scrutiny of being angled in the light.<br /> <br /> YOU WILL NEVER BE SEEKING AN UPGRADE. This is TMG endgame collecting <br />
Back Cover is free of writing, creases, sticker or tear. Just a minuscule light age-browning stain top-right corner (see images) all 4 four corner-tips are sharp and pointed, NO dings.
Both labels reveal no sign of turntable activity, no spindle trails, 4 prong centre in place, no dinking paper chards or hairline - as good as it gets
The vinyl is a miraculous mint minus on both sides - just the merest sleeve storage blemish, revealed under intense scrutiny of being angled in the light.
YOU WILL NEVER BE SEEKING AN UPGRADE. This is TMG endgame collecting
Bitter and The Sweets
I Won't Have No Babies For You / P.O.W.
Anything, Everything Records : BS 764T (45s)
Condition Report
Two flawless labels,
Minnie Jones & The Minuettes
You Get To Me Baby / Shadow Of a Memory
Sugar : 100 (45s)
The only problem you could possibly encounter whilst owning this 1972 Los Angeles double-delight, is making the decision of which side to play first, every time you take it out of it's sleeve.
Minnie Jones spoils you for choice if you're lucky enough to have this highly regarded 45, sitting in your DJ box.
Today, (I Think) my favourite of these two Lee Silver creations is "You Get To Me". The hauntingly gliding bass guitar intro, suddenly colliding with a wall of vocals & horns. Then Minnie's beseeching vocal cradled by a heavenly girl-group harmony, the silky support from her "Minuettes" elevates the song yet another notch.
Wow, Lee Silver really knew how to build a production up and beyond the norm. Again his gift creating the exceptional, treats us to a Northern Soul delicacy littered with key changes, short but highly effective instrumental breaks, and a richness from the backing vocals you could not enhance any higher. Just brilliant... my choice today.. but tomorrow I'm sure the flipside may well take pole position in my heart..
Flip it for a snappy, finger clicking dancer. Enhanced by another emotional vocal delivery from Minnie. Her voice again gently held in the warmth of her girlfriends vocal-volleys and a blanket of subtle horns, vibes and cymbals. Does it get any better than this..? I think not..
A record that has left me intro a quandary, of adoring both sides, and constantly changing my mind which affects my senses the most.
I just can't decide, two awesome tunes on one very elusive disc, leaving me asking myself.. why the hell would anyone sell this masterpiece...giving up Northern Soul utopia not once but twice over.
Condition Report
Two flawless pink labels, vinyl reveals only the merest fine hairlines from sleeve storage
Edwin Starr / Supremes & The Temptations
25 Miles (2 takes) / proposed LP Tracks for "Join The Temptations"
Motown Hitsville : 12" LP acetate (LP)
This Friday, 23rd August 1968 the review board had 8 tracks from the Diana Ross and the Supremes joined by The Temptations 6 of which were included within their two released albums. But more excitingly, this acetate includes two different attempts to perfect Edwin Starr's anthem "25 Miles"
1. Edwin Starr - 25 Miles Y-8 take
2. Edwin Starr - 25 Miles Y-9 take
Check out the subtle differences of these raw takes, complete with countdown intro/
The 6 tracks from Diana Ross and the Supremes & The Temptations inc:
1. Sweet Inspiration - released on the MS-679 Lp "Join The Temptations"
2.Then - released on the MS-679 Lp "Join The Temptations"
3. My Girl, My Guy - released on the MS-692 Lp "Together"
4. I Second That Emotion - released on the MS-679 Lp "Join The Temptations"
5. A Place In The Sun - released on the MS-679 Lp "Join The Temptations"
6. A House Is Not A Home - unissued on vinyl -
7. Amen - unissued on vinyl -
Labels are dated 08/23/68, mastering #'s are noted, along with a verification initial after each track has been assessed. A fabulous piece of Motown history with not one but two versions of "25 Miles" to salivate over.
an eyebrow lifting listing for the Motown historian, who takes the label and his Hitsville collecting seriously.
Condition Report
Labels are dated 08/23/68, mastering #'s are noted, along with a verification initial after each track has been assessed. (see images) Acetate surface has multiple unsleeved surface marks, but as you can hear the direct cuts play well. <br /> NOTE this acetate is UNIQUE!
NOTE this acetate is UNIQUE!
Skip Jackson and the Shantons
I'm On to You Girl / Promise That You'll Wait
Dot-Mar : YB 324 (45s)
We lead with the powerful mid-tempo a-side, Skip's gravelly vocal gargles the lyrics as a soothing male harmony chorus enriches the background. Back in the 70's when this 45 first started to get noticed, it just wasn't the Motownesque upbeat production the dancefloor craved. Although appreciated, talked about, it was rarely heard "out". But "today" this 45 stands not alone, as one we shamefully passed over. hear a barrage of brass, decorated with infectious guitar rhythms; laying down a groove that instanty grabs your attention. Just perfect for Skip's very impressive vocal. Add to that the relentless silky male-harmony choruses from time-served beautifully seasoned voices of "The Shantons" building up the arrangement, for Skip's snarling his way through those persuasive words;
An undeniably classy Northern Soul recording that would add substance to any DJ set..
Whilst the flipside is the original version of the much-loved Soulful Stepper/Carib Soul style 1972 stroller recorded by Michael Lizzmore on Capitol, another recording that enjoys a cult appreciation.
Skip's original version, is more muscular, imposing and arguably better than Michael L's vocal than his rarely seen 45.
So here's a 45 giving up not one but two great sides, top side is solid Northern Soul enjoying a strong renaissance, after our cloth-eared past never paid it the attention it so deserved. Not forgetting it also boasts a beautiful Cross-over flipside, the meatier original version also picking up some Sunday-Chill action..
An essential DJ box disc, we'd say, shimmering with quality two-4-one value.
Condition Report
Two flawless label, immaculate Capitol mastered high quality vinyl, rev ealing only a few fine hairlines undr r=direct light
Celest Hardie
You're Gone / That's Why I Cry
Reynolds : R 200 (45s)
A beyond compare timeless classic with few, if any NS recordings delivering this level of silky charm; with Celeste gliding through a "Rene" blending of considerate horns, decorated by intricate piano background..
A pleading Celeste, paints a beseeching picture of regretful recall; a young girl pleading for her man to return... so breathtakingly simplistic, in it's brilliance it appeals to everyone's collecting and dance inspirations...
As Celeste faces reality of losing a "good man", but not before her convincing performance she leaves the listener with a sense of him returning;
How could any man stay away from this songbird's allure..
A Northern Soul investment piece in just flawless condition..
Condition Report
two perfect labels, vinyl you can see your face in..! A Manship Mint pre-Christmas taster..
Ellusions
You Didn't Have To Leave / You Wouldn't Understand
Lamon : 2004 (45s)
THIS IS PROPER NORTHERN SOUL!
Today standing as one of the few enduring classics, seldom surfacing for sale, it's rarity within the constrains of OVO making it a tune you only generally hear when an A-list DJ is at the controls.
As an oldie it is always a delight to hear, not suffering a jot from over-exposure, still saturated in all the ingredients that triggered the dancefloor energy that lifted Wigan Casino & Cleethoropes Pier nights into gymnastic mayhem.
It's got everything required including eternally-rare validity..
a TUNE indeed...!
Condition Report
Two rich red full colour flawless labels, no light exposure red fade whatsoever. Beautifully clean vinyl, revealing only the merest sleeve contact hairline when angled in the light.
Clarence Jackson
If It Don't Fit Don't Force It / What's So Good To You
Valtone : V106 DJ (45s)
Squealing girls enhance the proceedings that unfolds, with timely shrill choruses. A very convincing slab of 1974 Detroit Northern Soul. Presented here as the very rare PROMO COPY in fine clean condition.
But this 45 is so much more than just a one-trick-pony. Do not overlook the sumptuous b-side, a spectacular hybrid of Barry White styled vocal woven into a "What's Going On" inspired arrangement. This side is begging for some Sunday afternoon chill-out exposure. a recording that would spin some heads around I'm sure.
Which ever side you drop the arm onto, this is an elusive 45 that just keeps on giving. Especially if you own it in it's by far and away rarest form.
Condition Report
Two spotless white demo labels, both sides of the vinyl are close to mint minus.
Wayne Wade
Styletic Dreadlock / version
Prophet Record : 2384 (45s)
Roots Reggae at it's most addictive, in the level of condition that rarely comes to market.
Click the soundfile to find out why Vivian Jackson is so very highly regarded..
Condition Report
fine clean vinyl mint minus, handwritten titles and credits
Rhythm & Soul USA
RHYTHM & SOUL # 1 / April 1st. 1966 Irma Thomas special -
F.A.R.B.S.: 1 (45s)
Having read the contents you can’t help but feel, this publication should have been the launching pad for a magazine that preceded what was to become the world’s leading black music news source, “Blues and Soul”. It’s content certainly outweighs the early “Home Of The Blues” the steppingstone to B&S.
Why this legendary journalist abandoned this idea, is unclear. Other than Dave joining the Blues and Soul team. Perhaps he became too involved with other business ideas. The record label Soul City was already a seed in his fertile brain. So now check out Dave’s early work when he branched out from Motown Appreciation Society into a wider spectrum of USA Soul music.
This addition includes the 1966 Hot Thirty (Soul singles) for April.
Full page black & white pics & bio's of Irma Thomas, Tammi Terrell, Nina Simone with James Baldwin; Billy Stewart & Wilson Pickett.
A mountain of information gathered by Dave and presented in his precise and clear writings.
Today, 53 years later it could have been Dave Godin who was in charge of the world’s largest black music publication. Instead there are only 3 editions of Dave’s Soul sapling; today providing us with a window into the mind and time when Dave, almost single handedly strived to bring Soul to the British music lover.
What a fabulous artifact to own, the early works of our hero. The greatest Soul journalist of them all.
Condition Report
Spectacular condition, strong mint minus throughout. No writing
Satan's Breed
Road Runner / Since You Left Me
Jenges : J-4551 (45s)
This wonderful slab of Philly Northern Soul is not only an absolute mind-blowing vinyl-vista unicorn-rare is only the beginning. It also offers up a Philadelphia vocal group dancer at its most riveting.
A record that hit the headlines for all the wrong reasons, when a few years back it became the most seriously controversial new discovery on the Northern Soul circuit. The "Satan's Breed" became the subject of a clumsy and now tedious scam; when a red label, counterfeit copy was allegedly “found" at Austin Record Show. Not for the first time an unconvincing deception of planting a "fake" 45 in a USA situation...which fooled nobody for very long.
Besides the “find” oddly having wrong label colour, the "fake" copy also never geared the "Paramount" pressing hallmark under the thin modern paper label, so very unconvincing. Thankfully leaving the huge reputation and desirability of this "impossible" disc totally unscathed.
So before you today is one of Northern Soul’s rarest of the very rare, a most-wanted, kudos saturated 45's it is possible to own.
Now listen to the accomplished skills of George Guess as he writes, arranges and produces and most probably sings on this mesmerizing vocal group harmony dancer. One of the very finest 45's I've had the pleasure of hearing in a very long time.
A beseeching lead voice, sails on a wave of finely tuned harmony choruses. The backing track epitomizing the slickness of The Sound Of Philadelphia leaving the turbulent 60's, seamlessly flowing over into the next decade.
Brilliant !
Lowrider and Sweet Soul devotees will also be bowled over by the tight mid-paced mournful despair served up on the flipside. Underlining once again this gatherings ability for impeccable vocal harmonizing. Two stunning sides on a seriously unattainable 45, that so very few collectors have ever owned as the sky blue authentic original 1971 press.
This is Northern Soul DJing and collecting at its utmost challenging.
Way Beyond Rarest Of The Rare ..
Condition Report
two clean labels, a-side vinyl revealing some light surface scuffing plays with the occasional tick or pop not distracting from the brilliance of the music, listen.The flip-side vinyl is a grade higher, less marks with hardly a tick or a pop.
Doctor Ross
Industrial Blues / Thirty-Two Twenty
D I R: 101 (45s)
This copy is in exceptional condition, a strong hardly played Mint minus with two utterly unblemished labels, exceptional flawlessness.
The blending of rhythmic guitar manipulation, the drumming of his hand slapping the guitar body and that sleepy gravel coated voice convincingly walking you down Industrial Avenue.
Potent Michigan Blues and arguably his hardest to acquire 7"
Certainly a copy in this immaculate condition is highly unlikely to surface anytime soon.
Condition Report
Plays flawless not a murmur of any kind. Two flawless labels fine clean mint minus vinyl
Major Lance
You Don't Want Me No More / Wait Til I Get You In My Arms
Okeh : 4-7284 (45s)
Another "Major Bob Crocker" discovery that he blew the condensation off that legendary low slung Catacombs ceiling!
A NORTHERN SOUL ANTHEM with few equals!!
Note this is the authentic FIRST Press. You may be thinking; Manship is pointing out the obvious, as we can all see the big 45 RPM on the left hand side. The reason I say original FIRST press because some dubious fraudster has purchased the Columbia 1973 reissue with the small 45rpm text and applied FAKE large 45RPM labels. What will these crooks think of next?
But all is not lost, fortunately the diligence of Columbia, their master stampers changed the last letter of the ZSP machine stamped matrix every time they changed the stamper, usually after 20,000 presses. So if this 45 received a new stamper the martix would read ZSP1185411 3A this copy is from the very FIRST run ZSP1185411 1A with the flipside matrix ZSP1185411 2B.
Now here's the way to spot a fraudulent copy the 1973 matrix # is ZSP118541-1E with the flipside carrying ZSP118541-2F in the deadwax. We did have a fraudulent copy I bought in as collection, how many of these have been passed off as original we can only guess, but be aware if your not buying from a dealer who cares and thoroughly investigates every detail. You do need to check the matrix, even though the "fake" label has weak "purple" background that can be scratched off..
Here's the real deal correct matrix for the original first press - ZSP1185541-1B
The Van McCoy created flipside is a killer also, do not pass by. Two awesome sides triggering a flood of memories, vision of the icon ic clubs they were first played at..
Condition Report
Machine stamped matrix # ZSP1185541-1B
Common Sense
I Really Love You (Just Can't Help Myself) / same 3:20 version
B C: 201 (45s)
A simple google will reveal just how darn RARE this perfect for rare-soul play 3:20 version is. Very, very limited press aimed at radio station airplay with the same song sitting on both sides.
The song ripples with that end of the 70's New York "Chic" dance style floor-pleaser.
A perfectly constructed instrumental intro, just the right length for you to crave the vocals to glide in. You are not disappointed as a "Nile Rodgers" inspired groove unfolds."
Very reminiscent of what Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards blew the world away with their captivating advance on the "disco" sound... "Good Times" "Le Freak" etc..
This too is a freak, a super rare "freak" of nature, a 45 that is ridiculously obscure compared to the highly regarded 12" .. go find the delicately edited 7" if you can...
Condition Report
Two clean labels, one side dated 3/29/80 neat clean vinyl, just a just mild hairlines, plays clean as you can hear from the impressive sound-file.
Sammy Campbell
I Never Thought ( I'd Find Anybody Like You) / S.O.S. For Love
Queen City : 1601 (45s)
Del-Larks founder member was so much more than just a lead voice for the Del-Larks, he also processed a gift for lyrics and arranging; underlined here with his only 60's 45 credited solely to him, before he revised his name to Tyrone Ashley in the early 70's..
But hold on there, can we hear a full vocal group harmony backing Sammy up on this session, was it The Del-larks ? Their background warbling is certainly slick enough for it to be them. Which now begs the question why "The Del Larks" is virtually priceless and this equally enthralling gem, remains out of sight, just over most DJ's and collectors horizons.
A street-corner born masterpiece shimmering with raw innocence and glimmering hope of success, that never came. These independent recordings of expectation are my favourite Northern Soul tunes.. The ones where you can hear the highly gifted members presenting you with real-deal from the heart Soul music; but in the background you can also pick up muted vibes of their struggle to achieve just one hit to help them pay the bills.
This 45 exemplifies how exceptional Soul music was born, from the streets, from struggle, from disappointment, from knowing you're so damn talented and that door to success is also, very unlikely to open... This time, this style of music, this level of musical strife, will never be repeated. Grab it while you can, extremely rare, with every note as good as The Del-Larks...some might say better, after the authenticity of this listening moment...sinks in.
Having said all that, do not pass by the excruciating Deep Soul flipside "S.O.S. For Love " again written by Sammy and delivered you'd imagine by personal experience, the pain being is so palpable.
In fact my despair, doing the work of reviewing brilliance, that receive little or no reward... is also evident.
Thank Heavens for Northern Soul keeping these magnificent recordings being kept alive...forever.
Condition Report
Two beautifully clean labels, vinyl with hardly a blemish. a few hairlines occasional muffled background if you listen intently enough..
George McGregor and the Bronzettes
Temptation Is Hard To Fight / Everytime I Wake Up
Twilight : 102 (45s)
Selected by the Numero group for reissuing 12 years ago, here is the sought-after original first press
A shiver inducing Soulful stroller, shimmering with distilled street-level authenticity. A wailing guitar follows the opening horn blast, then McGregor's preaching voice sends out the message that "Temptation Is Hard To Fight". HIs backing girl lace the air with their shrill choruses, whilst an occasional burping sax decorates the scene.
Killer real-deal Soul from Chicago, rich in quality, innovation and good intentions.
Not too ,many DJs are privileged with the ownership of this chill-out giant, turn some heads next time your playing Carib-Soul, Feed Your Soul,Soul Essence, Horse and Groom or just listen at home and covet this collection enhancing delight!
Condition Report
the a-side label bears two light ballpoint X X as an indication to te Radio DJs which side to drop, bb drill, but otherwise clean.
Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas
You Make Me Feel Like Someone / Take My Hand
Parlophone : R 5482 DJ (45s)
Presented here as a very and gorgeous rare red & white promo that will also catch the eye of Beatles associated collectors who have always had a soft-spot for Billy J. After Brian Epstein & John Lennon's input into the creation of the group.
This 1966 promo is so much more than a Fab Four collectors,piece. It is also a surprising fine slice of British-made Beat Ballad Heaven. A killer version that has sat under-the-radar of most. Listen, there is no denying the vocal-powers of Bill j. Kramer he has the most potent vocal. Easily on a par with Long John Baldry, Don Charles, Craig Douglas or anyone else you care to mention, perhaps P. J. Proby would jump to mind.. in fact P.J. did a version on his highly regarded "Enigma" album a year later.
This is the British original from the prolific pens of Irwin Levine and Judy Tree, seasoned masters of the Big City Sound and Billy J. does more than justice to it. With Nicky Welsh inspired perhaps by the Righteous Brothers building an almight production to match Billy's rich crooning.
This is a most-attractive Red & White Demo from a well-loved British teen-idol.. but most important of all it's a great song, that all Northern Soul and Mersey-collectors should want to own...
Listen and prepare to be amazed..
Condition Report
two flawless promo labels, both sides of the vinyl are immaculate, all housed in a Parlophone sleeve
Don Ray
Born A Loser / Living On a Prayer, A Hope And A Hand-Me-Down
RCA : 47-9438 DJ (45s)
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
Two brilliantly perfect promo labels, vinyl reveals only the lightest of sleeve storage hairlines, plays flawless. all housed in birth-sleeve
Papa and the Utopians
Cry For Joy / Express To Utopia
Poizon : P.P. 2000 (45s)
Jimmy McCracklin's wingman writes and produces this icy-cool Lowrider masterpiece that has been at the forefront on many "diggin' deeper" collectors conversations for several couple of decades. Very hard to acquire especially in playable condition. The last one I was lucky enough to find m any years ago, was in an unplayable states with badly worn labels.
So how refreshing today to meet a clean copy again, so I can wax-lyrical about this truly awesome ballad, arranged by local jazzman William Morrow.
The head-turning intro of a weeping man "Crying For Joy" because "Love's Gonna Find Me" lyrics which the lead falsetto takes off the scale! Backed up by a spectacular "Dells-worthy" flood of choruses from "The Utopias" So typically Bay Area with a rapping midway break quoting philosophic words of hope. The whole session glides from one peak to another, forming a mountain-range of superior vocals. Knitted so tight, so impeccable, your ears will be demanding another listen..
At this time my usually fertile brain fails me as I try and recall a more impressive vocal-group floater carrying this level of rarity.
Do not pass by this gem hardly ever come to market...
PS the innovative instrumental flipside will trigger interest from the obscure Jazz fans...
Condition Report
Two clean labels, vinyl reveals some light marks, but as you can hear it plays nice and clean, with only occasional very low-fi ticks that do not detract from the beauty of this exceptional song.
Black Aces Of Soul & Eyes Of Ebony
Betrothal / Let's Get On Down
Black World Recordings : C-1253 (45s)
The group lead with the ballad as the a-side then adorn the flipside with an impressive local Funk trip...
The sweet harmony side is led by a mature booming voice, backed up by "Sha La La La - Look What You've Done" as he bares his heart to one he loves. The Eyes Of Ebony relentless harmony backing fills the air creating an impressive wall of harmony, so brilliantly used by the lead voice..
LOVE IT!
Flipside is a wah-wah propelled neighbourhood Funker, filled with Hammond keyboard pulses, brutal brass and soaring vocals. Taking inspiration from Norman Whitfield's ground-breaking Temptations this spectacularly named group "Black Aces Of Soul & Eyes Of Ebony" drench the air with a downpour of Funk. Uncompromising, muscular funk hitting home on every note and lyric. Obviously a very accomplished gathering, that never to my known had a 45 release again.
Two great sides - one beyond rare disc.
Condition Report
Two clean yellow labels, neat clean vinyl has some feeble surface blemishes npne of which react with he stylus; as you van here it plays loud crisp and true.
Buster & Eddie
I Can't Be Still / There I Was
Class : C-1518 (45s)
what a great line for the Spring of 1966.. This is proper real-deal Northern Soul that set the dancefloors of Wigan Casino & Cleethorpes Pier on fire; with it's irresistible beat, growling double vocal, burping Sax, squealing girls, relentless male group chorus... then that anticipated LIFT! Twice the request "Do You Wanna Dance" reaches a crescendo with an almighty "Whoop" that not only the backing singers hit wit gusto.. but the dancers of those clubs also joined in with a shrill "WHOOP!"
Just like The Vel-Vets "I'm Gonna Find Me Somebody" this was not only a floorpacker, it was also an interactive 3 minute event with the crowd.. high accolade indeed.. A Northern Soul Anthem that is ridiculously hard to acquire as a PROMO but come to think of it, nobody is selling the Pink stock copy either, as it value rises year on year...
In the beginning, circa 1974/75 it was thought that this Northern Soul classic had never been issued at all. With just 3 copies of the DJ copy known; during those halcyon days of Wigan Casino & Cleethorpes Pier. Although it was and still is incredibly rare as a promo, the dearth of copies never prevented it becoming a Nationwide dancefloor monster.
Long before that 4 decades ago, 100 count box was unearthed of the sexy Pink stock copies (nobody had seen a stock copy before that discovery) Buster & Eddie's - Can't Be Still - was a most difficult original to obtain, far rarer than most any other 45 back in the heady days of 1974/5. Today it is unclear how many exist, as the original promo copies have changed hands more than a few times over the years, but hardly any have ever been found in the wild. Likewise with this "pinky" other than the original box, I don't know of any other find of the earth-shattering tune..
But what we do know is that the original 100 stock copies found at Dore's Los Angeles warehouse 40 years ago; have long since been swallowed up by the Northern Soul collectors. Now almost as hard to acquire as the coveted 30 times rarer PROMO. It is after all, a NS classic, that nobody wants to part with...
there is a thumpin' Northern Soul trophy-piece in jus immaculate condition.
Condition Report
Two perfect labels and vinyl to match. Complete mint minus throughout..
Bobby Paris
Per-so-nal-ly / Tragedy
Polydor: 56747 (45s)
This listing comes with a lovingly scripted vintage card sleeve from those golden years of Northern Soul development. When the proud owner wrote in marker at the bottom, and filed it away in his collection. That has only recently surfaced after years of careful storage, as he fell out of love with Northern Soul in 1974 when it's underground status was swamped by an explosion inNOrthern Soul popularity..
Read his passion:
"ORIGINAL BRITISH POLYDOR LABEL. IS SO RARE !!! AT ONE TIME / CREWE, EARLY MECCA DAYS, TORCH ETC. THE COUNTRY'S TOP SOUND!
It was too, I know my yearnings of ownership never came to fruition. Neither did many other NS fledglings have to mind-blowing experience of find a copy.
Its legendary power to lift a dance-floor into a marauding army of hand-clapping back-dropping youthfulness, has never diminished; even today the now aged time-served devotees are still triggered into involuntary gymnastics, that can only be described as highly perilous.
The presence of Bobby Paris surfing a brutal blasting brass & string Gene Page arrangement will undoubtedly be catapulting many of you back to 1970 Crewe's "Up The Junction", Blackpool's "Highland Room and Stoke's "Golden Torch".
A chance to own, a play perfect mint minus copy , looking deliciously gorgeous in its Polydor jacket, is surely a mighty tempting slab of nostalgia to resist!
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 3 prong centre intact, vinyl reveals only the merest hairline as you can hear the sound is loud clean, just darnperfect
Muddy Waters -
Mississippi Blues / 4 track French EP complete with Picture Cover
London Disques : RE-U 1060 EP PS (EP)
Covering his 1956 Chess recordings.
1. Young Fashioned Ways
2. Manish Boy
3. All A Board
4. Forty Days And Nights
A 50's Blues treasure!
Condition Report
Beautifully clean art-cover, retains the original rice-paper inner sleeve. Two unblemished labels, vinyl reveals only minuscule light hairlines when angled in the light. A fine clean, complete copy, irresistible!
Reggie Soul & The Soul Swingers
My World Of Ecstasy / Mighty Good Loving
Capri: 11712 (45s)
A much loved turntable drop at all those discerning Soul events across the country. Soul Essence, Tuff Love, Diggin' Deeper, The Orwell etc.. They have all been elevated by tunes of this superior quality as this style of Soulful "Crossover" enriches the evening with a touch of class.
Check out those urgent girls servicing the intro, cradling Reggie Soul's beseeching voice through his pleading offering of "Ecstasy" as if not enough quality had not already been laid down, a flute solo joins the session...
Utterly fantastic tune, my kinda play (IMB), perfect Northern Soul Crossover drenched in seriously Soulful qualities to upgrade your set.
Hidden away on the back is a slab of intense back-drop inducing Northern Soul, a careering 100 mph out of control truck of Northern Soul that if you pitch down transforms into a real-deal Northern Soul dancer you have a chance to keep up with.. Listen and make your own judgement on that.. meanwhile I'm still swooning over the A-side that is the ideal missionary to convert the uninitiated to premium Crossover!
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, unblemished vinyl, almost perfect.
Carol & Gerri
How Can I Ever Find The Way / On You Heartaches Look Good
MGM : K13568 DJ (45s)
It doesn't matter a jot which side you drop the arm onto with this 45, the result is the same, easy to dance to Northern Soul that triggers a rapidly evaporating floor space,. As the area fills with enthusiasm for this powerful delight
Don Askew & Wayne Wadhams craft the top side, arguably the most-popular, better know side. But I prefer the equally enthralling flip, when Askew is joined by "Karen" to compose another winner.
Both sides are joyous girl-group Northern Soul winners that have crammed the dance floors of the UK for well over 4 decades, with no signs of their charm ever diminishing.
For the DJ it's a no brainer, with two sides bristling the crowd-pleaser effect, for the collector there is no doubt this is one of the most-wanted of all the MGM's especially in this immaculate condition.
Condition Report
Two unblemished promo labels, vinyl has two beautiful mint minus surfaces, plays flawless. All housed in its birth sleeve.
Major Lance
Um, Um, Um, Um, Um, Um / Sweet Music
Columbia : DB 7205 DJ (45s)
Utterly immaculate Mint minus condition, still housed in birth-sleeve...
Those of you time-served British and Major Lance devotees, your eyes may be glazing over with this pulse quickening sight that only the lifelong British Soul collector will be uncontrollably passionate aboput.
Rare in the extreme, the stunning beauty lying in the eyes of the beholder..
Condition Report
Two impeccable labels, No writing, stickers or stains. 4 prong die-cut centre fully intact. Vinyl revealing only a few ultra fine wispy sleeve contact hairlines under direct light. A strong Mint minus throughout.
Nino and the Ebb Tides
Those Oldies But Goodies / Don't Run Away
Top Rank : JAR 572 (45s)
This was of course a hit for the team, but in the UK met the same fate as most quality Doo-Wop grooves and passed by unnoticed at the time, but today stands as a must own for fans of the sound and tast golden era.
The flipside written by the group themselves with Nino Aiello, Vinnie Drago, Tony Delesio, Rudy (Second Tenor Rudy all having a hand in it's construction. An uptempo cruiser of equal quality with all the classic Doo-Wop clichés woven together to be parted by a fabulous sax-break.
Two great examples of the sound, that rippled through the urban culture of New York City for nearly a decade.
Condition Report
Two clean labels, beautifully clean vinyl very close to Mint minus, all housed in birth-sleeve.
Joe Francis
Wicked Woman / King Joe's Ska
Blue Beat : BB 323 DJ (45s)
Two classic SKA shouters on one disc.So hard to find in collectable audio perfect condition.
Click the sound file King Joe Francis is ready to take you off your feet, not once but twice.
Note this copy has a rubber stamped "A" on the "Wicked Woman" denoting promo copy.
Condition Report
Stunning condition, near perfect vinyl just a few sleeve contact fine hairlines revealed under direct light. 4 prong die-cut centre fully in place, labels are clean inconspicuous "A" stamp promo on the "Wicked Woman" side. Housed in replica sleeve
Ace Holder and His Blues Rockers
Lonesome Harmonica / Homeless Boy
Pioneer International : PI 10045 (45s)
All this man's 45s are elusive this one especially this 1960 release #1004 on this seldom-seen most interesting of Blues labels.
Fellow Blues man Gus Jenkins & Ace Holder collaborate on both sides of this disc, to craft two grinding Blues strollers. The topside showcasing the mournful harmonica style of Ace Holder's ability to make his instrument talk. Deep Blues from the heart, slowly winding you into it's despairing message.
Flip it over the Harmonica again immediately entrances you, but this time Ace Holder displaced mood is complimented by his richly coated voice of hopelessness.
Two killer Blues messages from the sidewalks of Los Angeles, served up on one very elusive disc... our first copy in memory and only the 3rd to hit the internet this century.
RARE indeed
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, vinyl only reveals minimal sleeve storage hairlines under direct light, plays flawless. Still housed in it's birth sleeve. A beautiful example
Winston Shan / Harmonians
Matilda / Come To Me
Bullet: BU 411 (45s)
Check out the impressive condition report then listen to the perfectness of the soundfile provided from this impressive double helping if classic 1969 style Reggae.
Two Jamaican Spade label winners, presented on one artistic Pama Records imprint.
Condition, condition, condition!
Condition Report
4 track die-cut centre intact, small initials L P on centrepiece is this 45s only minuscule flaw. Vinyl reveals full gloss and just the finest of sleeve contact hairlines. Plays perfect
Amazing Blondel
The Amazing Blondel and A Few New Faces / 1970 UK stereo press
Bell : SBLL 131 (LP)
I was particularly enthralled by
Side One
1. Saxon Lady
3. Season Of The Year
5. Shepherd's Song
Side Two
2. Love Sonnet
3. Spanish Lace
4. Minstrel's Song
Listen to the full track sound-file we lifted from this cult LP offering the finest Folk / Rock of that halcyon year of 1970.
Condition Report
A fine clean fully laminated cover, only revealing very mild corner-tip rub from careful storage. , vinyl reveals some light surface hairlines under direct light, carefully play tested, plays a beautifully clean, no noise even between tracks in the clear run-ins the stylus flows free of any interference. Superb sound throughout, both labels are free of any flaws. All housed in original EMI advert inner sleeve.
Heptones with Tommy McCook and the Supersonics
School Girls / Ain't That Bad
Caltone : Tone 105 (45s)
Top side is a downright moody but compelling performance. backed up with a typically rich horn and percussion laden arrangement cradling a sublime wealth of tight harmonies.
As you'd expect from this highly regarded trio, the a-side is a tight, wailing vocal group harmony display with Leroy Stibbles again impressing with his beckoning vocal style, enriched by perfectly delivered harmony choruses. "School Girls" you're in danger of being hurt.. is the message it works so well with the "Supersonic" backing track.
flip it over and your treated to something just as delicious. Again the soaring harmonies instantly grab your attention as does the economic drumming and it's "simple is genius" approach. A sultry harmonia break, the swaggering saxophone, peppering the session with extra class. AS Tommy McCook again showcases his extreme talents.
Two top tunes on one elusive disc, in superb condition. a very challenging 45 to acquire a copy at this level of "clean"
Condition Report
The two eye-catching label are clean, four prong centre intact. Vinyl reveals only the merest of sleeve contact hairlines under direct light. As you can hear it plays beautifully...
Laurel Aitken
Skinhead Train / Kent People
Nu Beat : NB 047 (45s)
An highly sought after Skinhead Reggae anthem in fine clean play near perfect condition!
Aimed squarely at the Skinhead movement of the late 60's and hitting the nail on the head, not only lyrical saying all the right things, but also musically providing the ideal dance-floor character to win the heads and hearts the teenage street culture of the era.
Here at last is a copy with really clean vinyl..
Condition Report
other tan a fine ballpoint line on the a-side label, the artwork labels are clean. 4 prong die-cut centre intact. Vinyl is a very clean Ex+ only rveling light sleeve storagfe hairines under direct light. As you can hear both sides play superb.
Four + One
Time Is On My Side / Don't Lie To Me
Parlophone : R 5221 (45s)
Coincidently recorded the same year by The Rolling Stones.
Right in the zeitgeist of the MOD culture, this five man band of hopefuls that briefly featured Keith Hopkins, who went on the help form "In Crowd" to recording 3 more MOD directed 45s for Parlophone before morphing into "Tomorrow" of "My White Bicycle" fame...
This was Four + 1 only 45 release, becoming a steppingstone for hopefull greater things for a band, that never broke into the public eye during their different Parlophone line-ups over the next 3 years.
"Time Is On My Side" perfectly encapsulates the young musicians focus on "Soul" in Great Britain during the swingin' sixties. A very worthy bluesy rendition of a truly great song. A disc for those of you collecting everything "MOD" with a killer Hipshaker hidden away on the flipside. A relentless Brit take on the Chuck Berry song "Don't Lie To Me" a muscular dancer that also catapults you back to Parkas, Union Jacks, Carnaby Street, MIni Copper S, The Scene, The Flamingo, The Tiles etc. places and sounds, young teen groups aspired to be associated with.
This is R&B Brit style at it's most convincing.
Condition Report
Two flawless labels, 4 prong centre intact. Vinyl only the merest sleeve storage hairlines under direct light. Plays mint minus. All still housed in birth-sleeve
Swan Silvertones
If Your God Is Dead / He's Sweet I Know
HOB is Gospel : HOB 1356 (45s)
Condition Report
Vinyl reveals some light surface marks when angled in the light, but as you can hear it plays clean and true.
Bobby Bland
Bobby Bland / 4 track 1964 EP with cover
Vocalion : VE-P 1701153 (EP)
This EP was actually held back from released for two years, whilst the dust settled over the controversial 1961 withdrawn in the USA track "How Does A Cheating Woman Feel" that Don Robey insisted was withdrawn from sale. Label dated 1962, the fully laminated flipback cover and notes the date as 1964.
4 tracks are:
1. Yield Not To Temptation (Bobby Blue's most vibrant hipshaker)
2. How Does A Cheating Woman Feel (the single release instantly withdrawn in the USA)
3. Blue Moon (A long time MOD scene classic)
4.Who Will The Next Fool Be? (killer Texas Deep Soul/Blues ballad)
This was Bobby's debut EP in the UK with his reputation still running way under the UK publics radar. It was soon followed by another equally passed over EP "Bobby Bland Sings" Vocalion VE-P-170157. But Decca still neglected the big Bobby Blue Bland "push" and today all his 45's and his two EP's are consider "vinyl treasures" by the British Soul vinyl collectors.
This EP at this level of condition, is one of his least seen examples of his too few UK releases.
See condition report below:
Condition Report
Two clean labels, 4 prong die-cut centre completely intact, play tested vinyl plays totally clean, visually only the merest sleeve storage hairlines reveals itself under direct light. Complete with the seldom seen fully laminated flipback cover. Also clean and free of any writing, veins, stains or creases Mint minis cover and label, Ex+ vinyl that plays Mint -. A tip-top example.