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Showing posts from December, 2024

Stanley Turrentine - Concentrate On You

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Stanley Turrentine Concentrate On You Elektra E-46533 (1979) Stanley Turrentine (1934-2000) was an American jazz tenor saxophonist and record producer. He began his career playing R&B for Earl Bostic and later soul jazz recording for the Blue Note label from 1960, touching on jazz fusion during a stint on CTI in the 1970s. He was described by critic Steve Huey as "renowned for his distinctively thick, rippling tone [and] earthy grounding in the blues." In the 1960s Turrentine was married to organist Shirley Scott, with whom he frequently recorded, and he was the younger brother of trumpeter Tommy Turrentine, with whom he also recorded. This 45 from the late 70s was a mellow jazz-funk styled recording, the copy in my collection being a US radio station promo featuring the track in mono and stereo. FLAC

Thanksgiving - The Lake At Night

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Thanksgiving The Lake At Night / The "In The Lake" Marriage M003 (2004) Thanksgiving and Adrian Orange & Her Band are the names under which Portland, Oregon singer/songwriter Adrian Orange (born March 20, 1986) performs. First adopting the "Thanksgiving" moniker around 1999–2000, Orange played experimental folk music, often accompanying himself on guitar and self-recording his albums using analog equipment. While Thanksgiving is essentially a solo act, Orange often collaborates with other musicians in his recordings and performances. This is a haunting piece of indie folk that was released in 2004. No YouTube video found for this one. FLAC

Milton DeLugg - Theme From The Addams Family

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Milton DeLugg Theme From The Addams Family / The Alfred Hitchcock Theme Columbia DB 7474 (1964) Milton DeLugg (1918–2015) was a prolific American composer, arranger, and bandleader who made significant contributions to television, film, and music. Born in Los Angeles, California, he became known for his cheerful, whimsical style and his ability to adapt to a wide range of genres. DeLugg served as the bandleader and music director for several popular TV shows, including The Gong Show, where his zany music complemented the program's irreverent tone.  He was a long-time music director for NBC, working on shows such as Broadway Open House and holiday specials. This 45 features the themes from two great 1960s television shows.  FLAC

The 5..7.8's - Rock And Roll Santa

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The 5.6.7.8'  Rock And Roll Santa / Harlem Shuffle Norton 45-120 (2003) Merry Christmas one and all from a wintery Pembrokeshire. Helping me spread the festive cheer is The 5.6.7.8's, a Japanese rock band, best known for their unique blend of rockabilly, surf rock, and garage rock. The band originally formed in Tokyo in 1986 and gained a cult following both in Japan and internationally. Their sound is heavily influenced by 1950s rock 'n' roll, with catchy guitar riffs, energetic drumming, and retro vibes. They were part of the wave of bands in the '90s and early 2000s that helped revive interest in rockabilly and surf rock. The A side was originally recorded and released by Little Joey Farr in 1961. The flip is a cover of the 1965 classic by Bob And Earl. Deck The Halls

Eddie C. Campbell - Santa's Messin' With The Kid

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Eddie C. Campbell Santa's Messin' With The Kid / King Of The Jungle Rooster Blues R 46 (1983) Campbell (1939 - 2018) began playing guitar in the 1950s, and in the 1960s, he became part of the Chicago blues scene. He played with several well-known blues musicians, including Howlin' Wolf, Muddy Waters, and Buddy Guy, before striking out on his own. His guitar style is heavily influenced by the classic Chicago blues sound, with elements of swing and rock. While he may not have achieved the same level of mainstream fame as some of his peers, Campbell is respected within the blues community for his contribution to the genre. Sleigh Bells Ring

Marc Bolan & T. Rex - Christmas Bop

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Marc Bolan & T. Rex  Christmas Bop /Shy Boy / Ride A White Swan (Live) Marc On Wax SBOLAN 12 (1982) This 1982 release by Marc Bolan and T. Rex is actually a reissue of the original track from 1973.  Following his death in 1977 his music saw periodical revivals introducing his music to new fans.  This reissue didn’t become a major hit or chart-topping success, but it did contribute to keeping the T. Rex legend alive, especially among fans of Bolan and his style. The festive, fun vibe of "Christmas Bop" made it a quirky addition to holiday playlists and a reminder of Bolan’s ability to blend pop culture with his distinctive glam rock sound. Figgy Pud

Paul McCartney - Wonderful Christmastime

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Paul McCartney  Wonderful Christmastime / Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reggae Parlophone R 6029 (1979) Released back in 1979 this catchy and memorable tune soon became a Christmas classic.  The use of a synthesizer and a repeat of the title lyric gives the song a simple minimalist sound however it is another testament to the brilliance and appeal of Paul! Tis The Season

David Bowie And Bing Crosby - Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy

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David Bowie And Bing Crosby Peace On Earth/Little Drummer Boy / Fantastic Voyage RCA BOW 12 (1982) In 1977, David Bowie (1947-2016), a boundary-pushing rock star, and Bing Crosby (1903-1977), a classic crooner famous for his Christmas songs and traditional pop style, appeared together on Crosby's television special "Bing Crosby's Merrie Olde Christmas." The special was filmed in September 1977 and aired later that year on November 30, just weeks after Bing Crosby's death on October 14. Bowie initially agreed to appear on the special mainly because his mother loved Bing Crosby. Despite their differences in style, Bowie admired Crosby as a legend, and Crosby appreciated Bowie’s talent, the result became one of the most memorable musical moments in pop culture history.  The flip side was taken from the album "The Lodger" . PA RUM PUM PUM PUM

Dora Bryan - All I Want For Christmas Is A Beatle

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Dora Bryan  All I Want For Christmas Is A Beatle / If I Were A Fairy Fontana TF 427 (1963) Released in 1963, at the height of Beatlemania this 45 humorously captures the craze surrounding The Beatles, with Bryan singing about how instead of the usual Christmas gifts, all she wants is one of the Fab Four—John, Paul, George, or Ringo. The song reflects the immense cultural impact The Beatles had during the 1960s, especially in Britain, where Beatlemania was sweeping the nation. Dora Bryan (1923-2014), a British actress and comedian known for her comedic timing and charming performances, delivered the song with a tongue-in-cheek style that resonated with fans at the time. The track stands as a fun piece of music history and a nostalgic look back at the height of The Beatles' early fame. It’s also an interesting example of how celebrities outside the music industry participated in the Beatlemania phenomenon. John, Paul, George, Ringo & Dora

Brenda Lee - Christmas Will Be Just Another Lonely Day

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Brenda Lee Christmas Will Be Just Another Lonely Day / Winter Wonderland Brunswick 05921 (1964) Though not as widely known as her iconic holiday hit, "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," this song has a special place among her fans who appreciate a more reflective take on Christmas music.  The flip is a good interpretation of the Christmas classic. Released on 45 here in the UK in 1964, both tracks also appear on the "Merry Christmas from Brenda Lee" album also released that year.  The 45 reached #25 in the UK charts. Ho Ho Ho

The Waitresses - Christmas Wrapping

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The Waitresses Christmas Wrapping / Hangover 1.1.83 Ze Records WIP 6821 (1982) "Christmas Wrapping" is a festive classic by the American new wave band The Waitresses, released in 1981. Written by Chris Butler, the song tells a tongue-in-cheek story of a woman reflecting on her busy year, her decision to skip Christmas festivities, and an unexpected romantic twist. The song's clever lyrics, spoken-word verses, and catchy saxophone riff have made it a beloved holiday staple. Despite its quirky, anti-commercial undertones, "Christmas Wrapping" is widely celebrated as one of the best alternative Christmas songs.  Cover versions recorded included The Spice Girls and Kylie Minogue. This single in my collection is the 1982 re-issue with an alternate flip side to the original release.  ALL WRAPPED UP

The Greedies - A Merry Jingle

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The Greedies A Merry Jingle / A Merry Jangle Vertigo GREED1 (1979) The Greedies were a short-lived supergroup featuring member of Thin Lizzy (Phil Lynott, Scott Gorham & Brian Downey) and the Sex Pistols (Steve Jones & Paul Cook).  The song combines two Christmas classics; " We Wish You A Merry Christmas" and " Jingle Bells" . The song is performed with distorted guitars and a driving beat giving it a fun live feel rather than a polished studio track. The flip side is the same track but played backwards. Jingle Jangle

Lowell Fulson - Lonesome Christmas

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Lowell Fulsom Lonesome Christmas Jewel Records JEWEL 813 (1970) Born in 1921 in Oklahoma, Lowell Fulson was significant figure on the West Coast blues scene. This classic blues holiday 45, originally recorded in 1950, captures the loneliness and heartache of spending Christmas without loved ones. Deemed a blues classic it has over the years been recorded by many including Eric Clapton & B.B. King. FLAC

The Jackson 5 - Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town

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The Jackson 5  Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town Tamla Motown TMG 837 (1972) In 1970 The Jackson 5 released "The Jackson 5 Christmas Album" featuring a blend of classic Christmas standards with a vibrant, Motown flair, featuring Michael Jackson's youthful yet powerful vocals alongside his brothers’ harmonies. From the album the tracks on this 45 were released in the UK for Christmas 1972, just hitting the top 50 at #43. LET IT SNOW!

The Chipmunks - Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer

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The Chipmunks  Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer / Lily Of Laguna London HLG 9243 (1960) David Seville and the Chipmunks are characters created by Ross Bagdasarian Sr., an American songwriter and record producer, in 1958. David Seville is the "human" character and the Chipmunks' father figure and manager. The Chipmunks are a musical group of three high-pitched-voiced chipmunks, each with unique personalities. Alvin is the mischievous leader, known for his energetic and often impulsive behavior. Simon is the intelligent and responsible one, typically wearing glasses, who often keeps Alvin in check. Theodore is sweet, shy, and loves to eat. David Seville spends most of his time dealing with their antics. The characters became popular with hit songs like "The Chipmunk Song ( Christmas Don't Be Late )" and have continued to entertain audiences through records, TV shows, and movies over the decades. Bagdasarian Sr. and later his son, Ross Bagdasarian Jr., voiced the...

The White Stripes - Merry Xmas From...

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The White Stripes Candy Cane Children / Story Of The Magi - Silent Night XL Recordings WSXMAS 1 (2002) Christmas cheer from Jack & Meg White aka The White Stripes.  The A side was recorded 1998 and the  flip side 2002, both at Third Man Studios, Soutwest Detroit.   This UK version of the 45 was limited to 1000 copies. The US version was pressed on white vinyl.  The 45 was re-released on Third Man Records in 2010. The White Stripes wish you and yours a wonderful Christmas this, and every year. No portion of the recordings or packaging of this record is in any way meant to be blasphemous and the White Stripes will take considerable offense from anyone who believes it to be. FLAC