Category Archives: Records

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 11/10/18

11 Sunday Nov 2018

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I were up and out early yesterday, but, we got to Underdog Records and purchased a pretty good-sized haul. Here’s what we got:

220px-RattInvasion

©Atlantic  Records

  • Various – The Wall (Redux) — So, this is quite interesting. It’s Pink Floyd’s The Wall reimagined by a number of stoner/doom rock bands. It’s heavy, jazzy, light, dark, it’s a bit of everything. The Wall is my favorite Floyd album and it was cool to hear. New.
  • The Grateful Dead – Workingman’s Dead — #264 on the RS list. I haven’t ever been a fan of the Dead but this album is pretty good. The Dead were friends with CSN and those guys taught the Dead harmonies. Good stuff. New.
  • Eric Bachmann – No Recover — Our second album from the former frontman for Archers of Loaf. Laid back indie rock at its finest. This was an easy listen. Bachmann has a great voice. New.
  • Ratt – Invasion Of Your Privacy — One of my favorite hard rock albums of the 80s and has what I consider the best song intro ever, “Lay It Down.” I reviewed this album on the Eugeology list last year. It is in VG condition but plays quite nicely.
  • Mozart, Orchestre De La Société Des Concerts Du Conservatoire Dir. Hans Rosbaud – Don Giovanni (Excerpts-Extraits-Auszüge) — VG++.
  • The Marshall Tucker Band – Carolina Dreams — I’m not a fan of southern rock but I’ve liked a few MTB songs that I’ve heard and they’re from South Carolina. The rest of the albums (along with this one) that I’m going to list were $1 bin finds. VG.
  • Seals & Crofts – Summer Breeze — I got three Seals & Crofts albums. All were at least VG but could actually be slightly better.
  • Seals & Crofts – Diamond Girl — Ditto.
  • Seals & Crofts – Get Closer — Ditto again.
  • Emmylou Harris – Quarter Moon In A Ten Cent Town — Emmylou Harris has such an amazing voice. I’m not much on the country aspect but her voice makes up for the twangy country overtones. VG.
  • The Rolling Stones – Black And Blue — The funky/disco vibe on this album is weird for the Stones, at least at this time. Some Girls which came out after this (and my favorite Stones album) was firmly in that mode. But, at the time this was freaking some folks out. I didn’t really care for it, but it is a notch in my collection. That’s a plus. VG.
  • Boz Scaggs – Silk Degrees — I like Boz Scaggs more than I thought I would. I haven’t heard this yet, but I know I like “Lido Shuffle” which is on here. VG.
  • Elton John – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road — I love EJ and this album is one of my faves. I thought I was getting it from a Discogs Marketplace seller but I kind of got screwed on that. It wasn’t Discogs’ fault, though. The whole transaction was screwed up because it was supposed to be for another album but after I paid for it, he didn’t have it so I picked this one. He says he shipped it and it never showed up. I had accidentally rated this before I got it (I found the one I ordered through another seller) and now I can’t complain about it. The seller says there’s nothing either of us can do, as it’s a shipping thing. Oh well, this was $1. But, we have to try to find another copy as this is very scratchy. It’s listenable but it could be cleaner. VG.
  • Paul Young – The Secret Of Association — His breakout album, it’s the one that had Daryl Hall’s “Everytime You Go Away” on it. The rest of the album is pretty good. Not great, but good. VG.

So, it was a big haul yesterday. We got to listen to a lot of it during our listening session, but we have more to hear. Some folks don’t get the vinyl thing, but that’s okay. I just find I can immerse myself in the medium and I don’t mind changing sides. Underdog Records recovered from their anniversary. Jonathan is gearing up for the Black Friday Record Store Day event on the day after Thanksgiving. PLUS!!! If you have loved ones that are either looking for something to get their favorite record collector, or you know someone that is a record collector, Jonathan is doing gift “certificates” right now for the holidays. Be sure to listen to The Less Desirables every week because you’ll get the exclusive TLD/UDR special of the week. It’s good savings for you. But, you have to mention hearing that ad (and know what it is!)…

I use Discogs for cataloging and purchasing.

Until tomorrow, keep spinning…
Scorp out!

—
“Driving that train, high on cocaine, Casey Jones you better watch your speed. Trouble ahead, trouble behind. And you know that notion just crossed my mind.” – “Casey Jones” (Garcia/Hunter)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 11/3/18

04 Sunday Nov 2018

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Salutations™!!

Started out yesterday with some crépes and headed on over to Underdog Records, one of The BCPF’s and my favorite places! Here’s what we got!

ELODiscoveryalbumcover

©Jet/Columbia

  • Siouxsie & The Banshees – Superstition — The BCPF loves Siouxsie and the Banshees. It fits her once goth modus operandi. I like them pretty good, too, but she’s the true fan. This is from 1991 but is a reissue from 2018, It has “Kiss Them For Me.” New. In fact…
  • Siouxsie & The Banshees – Tinderbox — This is a little older, from around 1986 with “Cities in Dust.” It’s the 2018 reissue and is new.
  • Nirvana – MTV Unplugged In New York — I actually picked this up on Thursday, but didn’t enter it into Discogs until yesterday. Some disagree with me, but I think this is a fantastic album! It’s raw and you can almost hear Cobain’s pain but at times you can hear him sounding relaxed and chipper. Still, it’s great. #313 on the RS List. New.
  • Black Sabbath – Black Sabbath — #243 on the RS List, this album was heavy, dark and awesome! It’s a great debut album. Possibly the birth of doom metal or heavy metal, this. New.
  • Ozzy Osbourne – Diary Of A Madman — So, if we go with Black Sabbath, why not go with its former singer? Yep. This is a great album. I don’t like it as much as Blizzard of Ozz or The Ultimate Sin, but I do like it a lot! New.
  • Nicole Atkins – Goodnight Rhonda Lee — I discovered Nicole Atkins last week whilst finding something by someone playing locally and found a song that I liked on the first try and once I grabbed what I needed, I didn’t stop the album from playing. I then listened to it again. I felt it was something that The BCPF would like and I knew that I liked it, so I had Jonathan order it for me. She loved it. It’s like Dusty Springfield mixed with some Stevie Nicks with swing and jazz stylings that rocked. This is a must-listen, Dear Reader! New.
  • Warsaw – Warsaw — When Joy Division did their first demo, they were still going by Warsaw. So, this is that demo. The BCPF said she had it when it was actually Joy Division and the album was called Warsaw but this is an “unofficial release” and it sounded pretty good, albeit bass heavy. Not the gloom-and-doom Joy Division we came to know. New.
  • John Ralston – Shadows Of The Summertime — John played at Underdog Records on Friday night and we purchased this. Haven’t listened to it, yet, but we enjoyed him. New.
  • Earth, Wind & Fire – Raise! — The one with “Let’s Groove” on it. I love that song; probably my favorite EWF song. VG+.
  • Prince – Controversy – I found this in VG- condition but I still couldn’t pass it up. I mean, it’s Prince and I didn’t have it already. So, now I do.
  • Smokey Robinson – Blame It On Love & All The Great Hits — I’ve never been a huge fan of Smokey. He’s got a great voice but I just don’t like most of the songs. The BCPF wanted it. She got it. VG+.
  • Lionel Richie – Great Love Songs With The Commodores & Diana Ross — I had this on CD, one of the first 100 or so that I got. I got it (on CD) exclusively for the song “Endless Love” but all the songs are great tunes. VG++.
  • Don McLean – American Pie — Let me go on record and say that I absolutely LOATHE the song “American Pie.” It ranks up there with “Freebird” as the worst song ever. But, The BCPF said we should have it in our collection. Okay… It was in the $1 bin so there’s that. VG.
  • Billy Joel – Turnstiles — Billy Joel for $1? Yep. I’ll take it. And, it looks to be in fairly good condition. I’m calling it VG+. This album has “New York State of Mind,”  “Say Goodbye to Hollywood,”  “Prelude/Angry Young Man” and “Miami 2017 (Seen the Lights Go Out on Broadway).”
  • The London Symphony Orchestra – Tommy — 2xLP box set with Daltrey, Townshend, Rod Stewart, Ringo Starr and a plethora of guests with the London Symphony Orchestra. A $1 bin find it’s in VG+ shape.
  • Electric Light Orchestra – Discovery — “Shine a Little Love,” “Don’t Bring Me Down,” “Last Train to London,” “Confusion” and “The Diary of Horace Wimp.” I love ELO and didn’t really realize how much until I was researching for the VSS stuff last year. A $1 bin find. VG+.
  • Rockwell – Somebody’s Watching Me — This was sitting on the counter in front of Jonathan and I asked about it. It’s Berry Gordy’s son and has that one catchy tune with Michael Jackson. $1. VG+.
  • Foreigner – Double Vision — I had this (their sophomore effort) already but it was the 2nd pressing cover. This is the original cover. Including “Hot Blooded,” “Blue Morning, Blue Day” and the title track. I found it in the $1 bin and it is VG+.
  • Foreigner – Foreigner — The debut album with “Feels Like the First Time,” “Cold as Ice” and “Long, Long Way from Home.” It was in the $1 bin and it’s also VG+.
  • Various – Peter And The Wolf / The Sorcerer’s Apprentice — Side 1 is Peter, Side 2 is Apprentice. $1 bin find. Not in the greatest of shape. Good at best. Fair most likely.

This haul was the biggest we’ve had in a while. Underdog Records was celebrating their fifth anniversary and there were sales happening. Remember that Underdog Records is THE Official Music Sponsor of The Less Desirables. Make sure you listen to the latest episode each week (on Wednesday night) to hear the weekly TLD/UDR special.

Discogs is where I keep my collection in check. It’s a great app and tool.

Until tomorrow, keep spinning…
Scorp out!

—
“All that I have left is the sound of my own breath and then darkness falls so quiet. Here’s a feeling I’ve had many times before. Every time you leave it’s your arms that I bereave then the next time to leave’s yours. I watch the ghosts of your footsteps by our door.” – “Darkness Falls So Quiet” (Atkins)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 10/27/18

28 Sunday Oct 2018

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Salutations™!!

TheCoralMagicandMedicine

©Deltasonic Records

After breakfast, The BCPF and I went and voted and then got down to Underdog Records and it was a beautiful day to be out and to be in my favorite store! Here’s what we got:

  • The Coral – Magic And Medicine — I have this on CD and when I got it many, many years ago, I didn’t care for it and didn’t give it another listen. Now that my tastes have changed and my mind has opened, I decided to give it another try and The BCPF and I both agreed that it was quite a fabulous listen. Plus, whilst it was brand new, it was in the “clearance bin” and we got it for less than $13. Win-win!
  • George Harrison – Somewhere In England — The first album that George recorded after John Lennon’s death and the song “All Those Years Ago” was written about and for Lennon. The whole album is great and we enjoyed listening to it. VG+
  • Earth, Wind & Fire – I Am —  Featuring the singles “Boogie Wonderland” with The Emotions and “After the Love Has Gone,” this was a great listen. We enjoyed it. It was in VG++.
  • Richie Havens – The End Of The Beginning — I honestly don’t know much about the album and it’s the only one of the ones we got yesterday that we didn’t listen to. VG+
  • A Flock Of Seagulls – The Story Of A Young Heart — Great synth pop from the mid-eighties. It was a fun listen but really, not a lot of memorable tunes. VG++

We also got Crosby, Stills & Nash – CSN but it was a replacement for one we got from the $1 bin this past July. This one is in VG+ shape and the cover actually has the picture which was missing from our other copy.

It was a small haul but it was a decent one. Underdog Records is preparing for their anniversary which will entail live entertainment and some specials but the fun goes on all the time at Underdog. You don’t need “special specials” to get good deals. Jonathan always has good stuff waiting for you at prices you won’t find anywhere else. Anywhere. Listen to the latest episode of The Less Desirables to hear what this week’s TLD/Underdog special is.

I use Discogs to keep track of what albums I have in case I look to purchase any albums. It’s also good for CD collections, too.

Until tomorrow, keep spinning…
Scorp out!

—
“We’re living in a bad dream. They’ve forgotten all about mankind. And you were the one they backed up to the wall all those years ago. You were the one who imagined it all, all those years ago.” – All Those Years Ago” (Harrison)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 10/20/18

21 Sunday Oct 2018

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Salutations™!!

Finally, after a break of several weeks, I have a haul to write about. Yay, me! It was good to get back in Underdog Records, see Jonathan, bin dive and then actually getting some good record listening time in. Here’s what we got:

Stan_Getz_Captain_Marvel

©Columbia

  • New Order – Movement — The debut album from New Order after the death of Ian Curtis and thus ending Joy Division. The BCPF says “this is my jam.” Needless to say, she likes it. I didn’t mind it. It was decent. New.
  • Nirvana – Nevermind — In September when the anniversary of this album came around, I went to play it in honor of the milestone. I looked and looked and looked. I couldn’t find it. I looked on Discogs and it wasn’t there, either. I keep a list of the RS list to see what I have collected from it. It wasn’t marked there, either. I was flabbergasted. How did I not have it? Well, I didn’t and now, I can’t say that anymore. I got it yesterday. I hated it when it came out. I hated the idea of grunge taking over the hair band scene. I’ve talked about that ad nauseum, so I’ll leave it be. This was new.
  • Pixies – Surfer Rosa — I actually got this last week when I couldn’t stay away from Underdog. It’s one of The BCPF’s faves and we know I want her to get what she wants, even when she didn’t know it was there to want. The record that is, she knew about the album. VG++.
  • Stan Getz – Captain Marvel — This album is great! Not only do you get the lyrical sexy saxy stylings of Stan Getz but you get Chick Corea on electric piano, Stanley Clarke on bass, Airto Moreira on percussion and drum hall of fame member (and drummer for Miles Davis) Tony Williams. Such great stuff. VG+.
  • Wings – Wings Over America — a 3xLP live album from Sir Paul (before he was Sir) and company. It is heavy, for sure. It feels like it weighs about 10 pounds, but really it is only about one. Haven’t listened yet. VG+.
  • George Harrison – Dark Horse — Not my favorite George album, but it has some great spots. The BCPF was excited to get it. VG+.
  • Randy Newman – Trouble In Paradise — I love Randy Newman and when I see something from him that I don’t already have, I need to get it. This has the hit “I Love LA” and a tune called “The Blues” which is a duet with Paul Simon. VG+.
  • Yes – Going For The One — The eighth studio album from Yes, which marked the return of Rick Wakeman who had left to do other things two albums prior. It’s only 5 songs but it is full-length. A lot of proggy goodness here. VG+.
  • The Who – Face Dances — The 1981 follow-up to the Quadrophenia album in 1979. It has the song “You Better You Bet” and is pretty fine. VG.
  • Atlantic Starr – All In The Name Of Love — I will admit that I purchased this (for $2) just because of one song. That song is “Always.” I have always loved it. It serves my R&B Slow Jam sensibilities. VG.
  • The Chipmunks – Urban Chipmunk — Yeah, you read that correctly. I’ve had more comments (positive ones) about this album than most any other recently. I even had someone offer to buy it from me already. Why? Because it’s a memory from our childhood. I wanted this when I was a kid and never got it. I had a cousin who had it. My sister had Chipmunk Punk which was a better album, but I wanted both of them. I haven’t found the Punk one and loved finding this one. And, yes, it is as awful as you’d think it would be, but that’s a glorious thing! Even though it was a $1 bin find, it was in VG+ condition.

Underdog Records is THE Official Music Sponsor of The Less Desirables. They have fantastic vinyl choices and players. There are also a few cassettes because apparently, that’s a thing again? Listen to the weekly episode of TLD to hear what the TLD/Underdog Special of the week is. Watch the social media channels for Underdog Records to see what is going freshly onto the sales floor.

I use Discogs to keep track of my collection. I spent a lot of time bin diving with my app on the phone open so I could check that I did or didn’t have the great stuff I was finding.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“I call you on the telephone my voice too rough with cigarettes. I sometimes feel I should just go home. But I’m dealing with a memory that never forgets. I love to hear you say my name especially when you say yes. I got your body right now on my mind and I drunk myself blind. To the sound of old T-Rex. To the sound of old T-Rex, who’s next?” – “You Better You Bet” (Townshend)

Spinning Sunday or: The (very short) Haul 9/29/18

30 Sunday Sep 2018

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Salutations™!!

Anothergreyarea

©Arista

Yesterday was “Parents’ Weekend” at Wake Forest University, so as anticipated, Mary’s Gourmet Diner was 30 folks deep outside the door so we’ll have to wait until next weekend to try the new menu there. The BCPF and I went on to Underdog Records, where we got a very short haul because it’s the end of the month and end of the quarter and that means funds are quite tight. So, here’s the “haul” if you can call it that…

  • Graham Parker – Another Grey Area — Graham Parker is the precursor to Elvis Costello and Joe Jackson and you can definitely hear it in his music. While this album came out after the others showed up, his influence is unmistakable. VG+.
  • The Motels – Little Robbers — Martha Davis has one of the best voices in pop, at least back in the early 80s. I haven’t heard her recently to know otherwise. But, this album is great and was a fun listen.

And, that’s it. Very short. And, we paid with quarters if that tells you how in a pinch we were. We spent the day catching up on other albums that we’ve purchased in the past few months but hadn’t a chance to listen to just yet. I will probably have a “Silent Sunday” next week as Underdog isn’t open this week as Jonathan and his best gal have gone on vacation and won’t be back until next Tuesday (at least at the store). Jonathan is in dire need of a vacation and I’m glad he’s going. We can catch up on back listening, perhaps. And, don’t forget that Underdog Records is THE Official Music Sponsor of The Less Desirables!

But, just because Underdog Records is closed, their website is open and you can order new vinyl 24/7/365. Jonathan said he was going to post some specials, so also continue to watch the Underdog social media for more on those.

And, while we stood in Underdog yesterday, I had my phone out with my Discogs app open. There were a few things that The BCPF found but I assured her we had them and weren’t missing out. But, also, we checked on the Motels album and we didn’t have it. So, keep up with your collection (CDs and cassettes, too) with Discogs. Use the randomizer feature, it’s fun.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“One summer never ends, one summer never began. It keeps me standing still, it takes all my will. And then suddenly last summer. Sometimes I never leave, but sometimes I would. Sometimes I stay too long, sometimes I would. Sometimes it frightens me, sometimes it would. Sometimes I’m all alone and wish that I could.” – “Suddenly Last Summer” (Davis)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 9/22/18

23 Sunday Sep 2018

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Salutations™!!

Yesterday was Mary Haglund’s birthday, so of course, we were there to celebrate with her at Mary’s Gourmet Diner. Then we went by Underdog Records and grabbed a few LPs. Not a big haul this week. Here’s it is:

Hall_and_Oates,_Abandoned_Luncheonette_(1973)

©Atlantic Records

  • Peter Gabriel – Plays Live — I got this on Tuesday from Underdog Records but waited to mention it until today. This is a great live album from 1983, recorded on tour in 1982 for the Peter Gabriel (Security) album. There were some overdubs done but most of the stuff was live. I really enjoyed listening to it. VG+.
  • Daryl Hall & John Oates – Abandoned Luncheonette — The second studio album from H&O and it’s a beauty. There are some really fantastic tunes on here, including “She’s Gone,” the title track, “When the Morning Comes,” “Laughing Boy” (which happens to be my favorite track on the album after “She’s Gone”). Love the cover, as well. VG+.
  • Go-Go’s – Vacation — The title track is the best song on the album but the whole thing was a fun listen. I am glad we have it. VG+.
  • Electric Light Orchestra – Olé ELO — This is a compilation album from ELO and it has a lot of early songs on it and some of it I’m not a fan of. Nothing is wrong with it, just not my favorite songs. However, there are some of my favorite ELO tunes, too. “Can’t Get It Out of My Head,” “Evil Woman” and “Strange Magic” are some of my overall faves from the band. VG+.
  • Commodores – Nightshift — It’s not classic Commodores, by any means but it does feed my synth-pop early 80s R&B. I had this album on cassette back when it came out because I forgot to send in my card to not get the “selection of the month” from RCA Music Club (before it was BMG Music Club). Granted the only tunes that I really care about on here is the title track, “Woman in My Life” and “Animal Instinct.” VG+.

So, that was the short haul. As I’ve mentioned now, twice this week, Underdog Records is now THE Official Music Sponsor of The Less Desirables. There are some cassettes and CDs in Underdog but, of course, the focus is on vinyl. And, we will talk about a lot of music stuff that isn’t just vinyl, either. But, Jonathan is always getting fresh used inventory and restock throughout the week. You should follow their social media to find out what and when. And, you should listen to The Less Desirables to find out what the weekly TLD/Underdog special is.

I never shop without my Discogs app open on my phone to make sure I’m not getting duplicates and it’s great for my “random selection” picks, as well.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“When you looked at me I should’ve run. But I thought it was just for fun. I see I was wrong and I’m not so strong. I should’ve known all along that time would tell. A week without you. Thought I’d forget. Two weeks without you and I still haven’t gotten over you yet. Vacation, all I ever wanted. Vacation, had to get away. Vacation, meant to be spent alone.” – “Vacation” (Valentine/Caffey/Wiedlin)

Crazy Licks or: Many Kisses (Part 3)

18 Tuesday Sep 2018

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Salutations™!!

Here’s the second post today! And yes, this is verbose as was the last.

The month of September is a huge month for KISS fans, even if they don’t know it. Why you may ask? Because the month of September is the anniversary month for the releases of TEN KISS albums. I’ve talked about Alive!, Animalize and Asylum. But, like I said in the last post, September 18 is a doozie and talked about the four solo albums that were released 40 years ago, today.

Lick_it_up_cover

©Mercury Records

In 1983, Lick It Up was released on this day and also that night Gene, Paul, Eric and Vinnie Vincent showed up on MTV and showed their faces publicly, at least as KISS, without the makeup. It was a weird transition for them, even if they say it wasn’t. Look at that interview and tell me that Gene doesn’t look uncomfortable as he says through his big white grill that it feels good… Uh huh. I think Vinnie looks uncomfortable all the time. Paul seemed the most natural. Eric was just there. Then look at the video for “Lick It Up” and tell me they look comfortable. Gene can’t figure out how to act. His professional career had always been under some kind of disguise. He’s not the most handsome man, truthfully, but really, were any of them? Nah.

Lick It Up, though, was a big breakthrough for the band. It was their chance to bring the people back into the KISS Army coming off the heels of Creatures of the Night, which saw the departure of Ace, even though he was on the cover, he played nary a note on the album. Several guitarists played in his stead on that album and one of those was Vinnie Vincent. Creatures was the rebirth KISS was looking for. It wasn’t quite KISS, but a harder rock version of KISS. I think Creatures is one of their heaviest albums in the entire KISS Katalog. But, they did that under the hidden comfort of their makeup-laden personas.

Truly, the band incognito had run its course. It was time for a new approach. Gene said in his book Kiss and Make-Up that Paul had talked him into unmasking. He was still apprehensive but Paul explained that the makeup had become a stigma and more people knew the characters than they did the musicians and the music, whether people want to admit it or not, was judged more on the makeup than on the merits of the music and songs. I was only 12 when this came out and I was aware of that fact. And, I’m ALL about the show. So, what to do? New direction with the music on the album before, let’s try a new direction in image, as well. I think it worked.

This album was pretty heavy and at times, mean. From the harmonics-driven intro of “Exciter” on to the fade of “And on the Eighth Day,” the album was a non-stop auditory assault. Paul also showed a whole new vocal style starting with this album. He started singing a little different on Creatures but from Lick It Up on, he sang higher, as did Gene, with more power and with more confidence. In fact, I think this album has Paul’s most powerful tone and timbre.

Gene really changed up his singing from just gruff to high and gruff. I can’t sing most of his non-makeup songs and I sing pretty high. The band also started aiming for the “metal” crowd instead of the “kids and rock-n-rollers.” Eric’s drumming was more volatile as well. He pounded the crap out of the drums. I found I was at the same time longing for and also glad they dismissed the drum sound employed on Creatures. It was an awesome sound but it was also overpowering.

Much of what made this album heavier was Vinnie’s playing. He was all about flash and speed and less about feel. But, I think that bled over onto Paul’s style, as well. Paul’s parts were heavier than the KISS we knew. There were no ballads or slower songs on this album. Speaking of songwriting, this marked the first time that there were no outside writers on a KISS album.  People have a hard time believing that, but from the first album (which had a cover – and yes I know the original didn’t have that cover), the second and third rehashed Wicked Lester songs, and so on. Plus, people forget that Vinnie was “in the band” at one time.

This is one of my favorite KISS albums, although it didn’t start that way. I never really noticed it being a “different KISS” until much later. KISS was KISS was KISS to me. I get it now, but I was blinded at the time. As tired of the title track I am, I still love it. We used to do it in Busted Uncle. It was fun. The only song I really don’t care for is “Gimme More” and even that is a pretty good song. The one that all my friends hate is one of my favorites on this album, “Dance All Over Your Face.” I don’t know why but I just dig the heck out of it.

This was the first album that I got on cassette and not on vinyl. So, the copy I have now (180g brand new) is the first time I’ve ever had it on vinyl.

Crazy_nights_album_cover

©Mercury Records

Now, 31 years ago today KISS released Crazy Nights. It is perhaps the most polarizing of the 80s-era KISS albums. I know a lot of critics, fans and even my friends have labeled it as poppy sugary drivel but I am not one of those. Yes, it is poppier. It’s not quite “hair band” material, but not far from it. Their heavy sound had softened a bit, even though they were on their second album with one of their best guitarists, Bruce Kulick who showed up on the tour for Animalize and played on Asylum. I don’t mind sugary pop, though, as you have read me talking about often, Dear Reader.

I believe part of the deal with the overall tone was that Paul and Gene gave up production duties and just recorded music. But, they were also using outside writers and not the likes of ex-Plasmatics members but with genuine pop music writing heavyweights, Adam Mitchell, Desmond Child, Bruce Turgon, Davitt Sigerson and legend Dianne Warren. On top of that it was produced by Ron Nevison who took over duties from David Foster on Chicago albums, Heart’s Heart and Bad Animals, Europe, Damn Yankees, Survivor and my favorite Ozzy Osbourne album, The Ultimate Sin. What absolutely didn’t help was the incorporation of keyboards (played by Phil Ashley).

I remember buying this album on cassette at Peaches. I knew it was coming out but hadn’t heard anything from it. I put it in the car stereo (in my ’74 Chevelle Malibu Classic’s Craig audio system) and waited. It seemed the leader tape was a bit long, so I turned it up thinking it was low. The opening notes of “whew!” for “Crazy Crazy Nights” scared the bejeezus out of me and I nearly wrecked my car. I loved it, though. That followed by “I’ll Fight Hell to Hold You” and “Bang Bang You,” gave Paul a good three-song start. Nice and poppy.

Then Bruce got to do his thing. He schools us on tapping techniques flawlessly and  Eric joins in with a little double-bass flash. This is “No No No” from Gene. The whole thing is a little hard to follow on the beat because it’s about being fast, I think. The only song that I don’t care for is “My Way” which I think single-handedly shows off the overly-poppy nature that many people see the entire album for. Also, as with Lick It Up, one of my faves on there is the one my friends say they dislike the most on the album, which is “Thief in the Night.” It was covered by Wendy O. Williams (also of Plasmatics fame) on an album that Gene produced which could have actually have been a KISS album.

Is this their best album 80s-era or otherwise? No. It is, however, the 80s-era KISS album that I listened to the most. It was the last original studio album that I actually had a love for and enjoyed without bias. The next album, Hot in the Shade, had plenty of letdowns for me. I don’t mean that I don’t love post-Crazy Nights albums, but up to this point, they could do no wrong. I realized on HITS that they could. Between the two came Smashes, Thrashes & Hits, a greatest hits album. I liked it.

This album also had a lot of unreleased things make it to other artists and box sets and such. The original title of the album was Who Dares Wins. I’m glad they changed that.

What are your thoughts on these two albums, Dear Reader? Are they up your alley or not? If you’re not familiar, why not give them a shot? Let me know what you think.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Baby, now that you’ve made up your mind, I’m gonna let you go, if that’s what it takes to show love is blind. I gave you the best love you ever had, but it wasn’t enough. So, if you think you’re so smart, go and play with your heart. When you walk out the door, you’ll realize what you never did before. A million to one – that’s what it will be. A million to one – there’s someone better than me. A million to one – no, you never will find. A million to one – another love like mine.” – “A Million to One” (Stanley/Vincent)

 

Gone Solo or: Many Kisses (Part 2)

18 Tuesday Sep 2018

Posted by in Music Review, Records

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Salutations™!!

The month of September is a huge month for KISS fans, even if they don’t know it. Why you may ask? Because the month of September is the anniversary month for the releases of TEN KISS albums. I’ve talked about Alive!, Animalize and Asylum.

20090517004510!Solo_inner_sleeve

©Casablanca Records

Now, today, September 18th is a doozie. In 1978, all four solo albums were released on this day. Three other KISS albums were released on this day as well, we’ll get to those.

Today is the 40th anniversary of the release of all four KISS solo albums. When I got into KISS, I was 7 going on 8 and that’s about when the whole Love Gun, Alive II, Double Platinum era was going on and then these were just coming out. Because of my newness to the band, I didn’t understand what was going on. I thought it was just 4 albums, one featuring songs by each member. I thought that was cool. And, in a way, it was. In other ways, it wasn’t. In many ways, actually.

While I pride myself on knowing my KISStory, at that time I had no such knowledge. I didn’t realize that Peter and Ace were both becoming victims of their own demons and weren’t pulling their own weight. They were constantly being pitted against Gene and Paul and were coming out on the losing side. As would be the case in any partnership/band/biz, that led to dissension. Ace and Peter were becoming more and more disillusioned with the “other side.” Gene and Paul were becoming less and less patient with Ace and Peter. Ace and Peter, whether right or wrong, felt that Gene and Paul were abusing their power and not allowing the others their creative freedom. Peter was threatening to quit as was Ace.  This is not just Gene’s and Paul’s long-heard version of the story, Sean Delaney backed this up when I talked with him several years ago. More on Sean later.

To keep the semblance of the band together, Gene and Paul, along with manager Bill Aucoin proposed that the individual members release their own album under the KISS moniker and let each showcase their influences, skills, desires, etc. Eraldo Carugati did the cover art of each and they looked cohesive, as they were supposed to. To the fans, including the newbies like me, it was to look like a cool thing they did in the name of creativity. I guess it was in some strange instances. They each dedicated their individual albums to each other, except Peter who added a dedication to Michael Benvenga who was in Chelsea and Lips with him, pre-KISS.

Ace’s album was all about the rock. Not, any pop or fluff really, even in the Russ Ballard tune, “New York Groove.” His guest list was not really extensive when you look at the other members’ tracks. He did recruit Anton Fig and Will Lee to play on his album, both of which would go on to be part of The World’s Most Dangerous Band from David Letterman. Fig would go on to be the drummer on the next two KISS studio albums (Dynasty and Unmasked) and when Ace finally blew the joint, he was part of Frehley’s Comet. Ace, being Ace decided he would do most of the other instruments himself, including most of the bass duties (Lee played on “Ozone,” “I’m in Need of Love” and “Wiped-Out”). There’s nothing wrong with that, he did it for the next few KISS albums, at least on his songs. Ace had Eddie Kramer produce his album (Ace co-produced it). Kramer was associated with Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, the Rolling Stones, Beatles, and the list goes on. He also produced Alive! and Alive II. “New York Groove” was the only tune from this album that charted (#13). Ace’s was the only album to chart (#26) and was the highest selling.

Peter’s album was about soul, R&B, jazz, and rock and roll. kind of stuff. Peter’s background was in jazz drumming, not necessarily the hard rock that he was known for. His influences were older. Diverse. Most of the tracks on this record were written by Stan Penridge. The credits go to Penridge and Peter, but I’m suspicious of how much Peter actually wrote. He may have done some lyrics, I guess. Peter’s cover of Bobby Lewis’ “Tossin’ and Turnin'” was pretty good. KISS did it on the Dynasty tour, at least for a few shows. It was pretty awful from what I’ve heard of it. But, Sean Delaney wrote two songs on the album (“Rock Me Baby” and “I Can’t Stop the Rain”). What is remarkable about this is Sean actually produced Gene’s solo album but was asked to write for Peter. He did both. Peter had many guest musicians including Steve Lukather of Toto fame, Neil Jason (who also played all the bass on Gene’s album), Penridge, Allan Schwartzberg (who also played on Gene’s album and was credited as “additional drum overdubs” on several of the 80s-era KISS albums) and more. The album was produced by Vini Poncia who produced Dynasty and Unmasked. Incidentally, it’s the only one of the four that had a “credits insert” and the only one that released two singles, even though neither song charted.

Paul’s album has been touted as the “most KISS-like” and I disagree. I think that would be Ace’s (which could be one reason why I like it less). Now, Paul’s has KISS qualities but it sounds like Paul’s KISS songs. The addition of outside musicians changes the feel than that of a KISS album. I think Paul’s has the best-written tunes. A little bit of “Starchild” and a little bit of the “lover” is how I’d describe the album. Ballads, power-ballads, hard rocking tunes and some pop aspects. There’s not a song on this album that I don’t dig. While there are three songs (“Move On,” “Ain’t Quite Right” and “Take Me Away (Together as One)”) that were co-written by Mikel Japp, this is the only one of the four solo albums not to feature a cover tune. Paul had some notable guests on this album. Carmine Appice and Craig Krampf (co-writer of “Oh Sherrie” and session drummer for many big-named artists) on drums, and of course, Bob Kulick on guitar. Steve Buslowe played bass on side one and Eric Nelson on side two. I wonder if that was by design? I find it odd. The album was produced by Jeff Glixman who has worked with Kansas, Yngwie Malmsteen, Black Sabbath and more.

Gene’s album seems, to me, like a huge party. It’s like he gathered all of his friends, girlfriends, a previously-released KISS tune, bits of horror, hard rock, The Beatles and his favorite Disney films and threw himself a shindig. If I knew he wasn’t so straight-edged, that could be the case, but other than a few impromptu orgies, I don’t see the party happening. The album opens with something that reminds one of The Omen and is hellish before hitting the hard rock “Radioactive” which has a very cool (complete with choreographed dissonant passing notes) classical guitar interlude into “Burning Up With Fever” which on the original CD versions put both of those songs together and you had to either just listen through or fast forward to get to the latter. This is the only one of the four that re-recorded a KISS song (“See You In Your Dreams”) because he wasn’t happy with the original that was on Rock and Roll Over. Gene has always maintained that he learned English from watching Disney films. So, while it sticks out like a sore thumb on the album, it makes perfect sense that he’d cover “When You Wish Upon a Star” because hey, it gives him an extra tune and you love what you love, especially when it fits your story. Now, his guest list is incredible. He plays no bass on this album, just acoustic and electric guitar. He leaves the bass work to Neil Jason, who along with Allan Schwartzberg on drums, also played on Peter’s album. Elliot Randall, who is probably best known for his guitar solo on “Reelin’ in the Years” from Steely Dan handles most of the main guitar work but also, Rick Neilsen, Joe Perry, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter and Richie Ranno of Starz do guest spots. And back up singers? Bob Seger, Helen Reddy, Donna Summer, Cher, Janis Ian, Michael Des Barres and a then-unknown young lady by the name of Kate Sagal (yes, Peggy Bundy) all lent their voices. Sean Delaney, as I said, produced the album. Sean claimed, to me, that he never got paid for that job and that Gene cheated him. Again, that’s an allegation and not necessarily a fact. But, the fact that he and Gene had a falling out about this time and as far as I know never really reconciled, I can see it. It wasn’t my business and I hope they talked before Sean passed away in 2003.

You’ll notice the order in which I talked about the albums. This order is important because it is in reverse order my favorite/preferred list. Gene, Paul, Peter and Ace. I get looks and furrowed brows when I say Ace’s is my least favorite. There are several reasons for this. One, I just am not a huge fan of Ace’s. I feel he squandered an opportunity and let KISS fans down in general. Yes, Peter flaked first and was a little byotch about it. But, I felt we got the better deal because Eric Carr was a much better drummer and a rock drummer at that. Ace’s also is just boring to me. Don’t get me wrong, I like it, it’s just my least favorite. I felt the reason for the solo projects was to show a bit of freedom and influence and step out of the KISS box. If you’re going to sound like KISS, record a KISS album and don’t be a byotch. Peter, Paul and Gene all got experimental and showed range, for better or for worse. Don’t argue, you have your favorites and I have mine!

All four had cool posters that you pieced together and the ones I have on 180g vinyl (from Underdog Records, of course) are pretty good. I had to buy my Paul Stanley used and it is missing the poster. I never had all the posters as a kid, either, so I’m looking for a replacement. I talked earlier about the good and bad of the solo albums. I love them for what they are, in varying degrees. The bad, however, was that no matter how crappy Peter’s performed, he still thought he was better and needed more from KISS. They showed him the door. Ace, on the other hand, got bolder as his album did the best and it proved, at least in his head, that he was more important. I feel he was, but disagree with how he dealt with it. Plus, he and Peter’s demons really got in their way beyond “just ego.” What are your thoughts on the solo albums, Dear Reader? I know you’ll disagree on the Ace placement but it is how I see it.

This got a lot more overly verbose than I expected, so I’ll continue the others either in a separate post for today or just do it tomorrow. Stay tuned.

Until tomorrow (or later today), stay in the Useless Things Groove!
Scorp out!

—
“You were standin’ and I was thinkin’ ff all the time that I spend hangin’ around. Situation could only get better. I got closer to see what I found. In the mornin’, movin’ easy. Everything seems so right. But when the night comes, I’ve been dreamin’… Dreamin’ ’bout leavin’ you one more time. Girl, you gave me good love but it ain’t quite right.” – “Ain’t Quite Right” (Stanley/Japp)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 9/15/18

16 Sunday Sep 2018

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Salutations™!!

Points_on_the_Curve_CD_cover

©Geffen Records

It was a rather dreary day in WSNC yesterday and will continue to be for a few days. There were minimal folks out because no one knows what Florence is going to do. So, The BCPF and I made sure to get some good listening material at Underdog Records. And, we did! Here’s what:

  • Sly & The Family Stone – Fresh — #186 on the RS List and I love good funky rock and that’s what this is. Great stuff. Yellow label UK pressing, I believe. It’s in VG++ condition.
  • The Blue Öyster Cult – Tyranny And Mutation — This was the 23rd entry on the Eugeology list from last year. I stated at the time that I didn’t care to hear it again. I do want my list stuffs on vinyl, so here it is in my listening realm again. VG+.
  • Aztec Camera – High Land, Hard Rain — I had heard of Aztec Camera but knew nothing of them. I had seen a few AC albums and thought nothing of it. I didn’t know it was The BCPF’s kind of thing. She said it was and we got this one. I could tell right away that it was definitely her kind of thing. It’s VG++.
  • Simple Minds – Once Upon A Time — There are a lot of great songs on this album and I was very happy to have it. It was a VG++ rated album and we really enjoyed listening to it. Simple Minds are a great band and I’ll buy pretty much anything from them I find.
  • New Order – Low-life — This wasn’t purchased from Underdog Records but was given to us there by our pal Clay Howard. Clay’s the only person we know that will give you gifts for his birthday! It was a great listen and The BCPF was singing along with the whole thing. At least mouthing the words, she won’t sing in front of me for whatever reason. VG++!
  • Wang Chung – Points On The Curve — I will never understand what in the wide-world-of-sports they’re talking about on “Dance Hall Days” but I really like the song. There were several great tunes on this album, and I’ll venture to say it was one of my favorite listens yesterday. Good early 80s pop and the best part is we found it in the $1 bin. I will go as far as saying it was VG++.
  • Henry Mancini – The Best Of Mancini — I love Henry Mancini and his smooth and groovy jazz stylings. He does it really well not only as musical releases but in television and movies, as well. It was a $1 bin find and is VG+.
  • Rod Stewart – Never A Dull Moment — It was funny to watch both The BCPF and me trying to figure out how to get the vinyl out of the sleeve. It was some weird double-flapped gatefold type thing. It turns out you get the vinyl from the back of that. It’s difficult to explain. We just had never seen one like that. Anywhat! It was a $1 bin find and I was surprised how much I liked the album. Some of Stewart’s older albums are a bit bluesy for me. VG.
  • Rick Springfield – Success Hasn’t Spoiled Me Yet — Another great pop album from the early 1980s. Speaking of Clay Howard, the first time we talked about playing music together was him asking about doing a Springfield tribute band. “Don’t Talk to Strangers” is on this one. Great stuff. VG+.
  • Various – Hit Machine — My friend Taylor Chamberlin contacted me on my Instagram post about this. He asked if I had it and I said I didn’t, which was odd because I have such a vast collection of K-Tel albums. He left it at Underdog Records for me. That was a swell gesture of him, I think. Thanks, TC. It’s G+.

So, not a huge haul but a very satisfying one. We got to all but the BOC and K-Tel album yesterday. It was a great listen day. I’ll have some news about The Less Desirables and Underdog Records this week. But, let me say that you can find a lot of cool records both used and new at Underdog. A lot of the stuff from the late 80s and into the 00s that were not even really released on LP is not being re-released in that format and Underdog Records gets them. Be sure to listen to The Less Desirables to hear what the TLD/UDR exclusive deal of the week is.

Discogs is my go-to for cataloging my albums and listing them here. It’s the easiest way to keep up with your collection, too. And, they have a great marketplace for selling or buying your records, cassettes or CDs.

Until tomorrow, keep spinning…
Scorp out!

—
“What you gonna do when things go wrong? What you gonna do when it all cracks up? What you gonna do when the love burns down? What you gonna do when the flames go up? Who is gonna come and turn the tide? What’s it gonna take to make a dream survive? Who’s got the touch to calm the storm inside? Who’s gonna save you? Alive and kicking.” – “Alive and Kicking” (Kerr/Burchill/MacNeil)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 9/8/18

09 Sunday Sep 2018

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I were back to Underdog Records yesterday after our trip to Beantown last week. It was good to be back and not only did we get a good haul this week, we actually got about six hours of record listening as well! Other than going through some head cold or sinus thing, yesterday was a wonderful day. I love my girl and spending the day with her. Here’s the haul:

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©Warner Bros.

  • The Psychedelic Furs – Talk Talk Talk — When I was younger, say when this stuff was new, I always got PFurs mixed up with The Fixx and Naked Eyes. They were close enough to the first wave stuff that it was only on my radar when they had a mega hit. I just didn’t have access to it. I have (obviously) come to know the difference and this was a great record. VG++.
  • Dire Straits – Love Over Gold — I have, on several occasions, mentioned my newfound love of Dire Straits. I am now only one album from having all of their studio albums on vinyl. I’m not sure it was even released on vinyl or not. If not, since they are not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, perhaps they’ll get a reissue of it? And, if they could figure out a way to get side one of Brothers in Arms back to its full-length self, that would be great. This was a great record. VG+.
  • Aerosmith – Aerosmith — No, I still don’t like Aerosmith, but there are some songs that I like and this was their debut album. This is the second pressing reissue from 1976 where “Walkin’ the Dog” is spelled correctly and they only used the photo of the band instead of the full sky pic. VG+.
  • Joan Jett & The Blackhearts – I Love Rock ‘N Roll — I know the song is way played out by now, but when this came out, I always felt it was a matter of “oh you have that!?” with covetous intent. I never had it, though. As a kid, for some things, albums and such, ordinary releases felt like the Holy Grail and I either felt special for having something or jealous someone else did. Music is just that big a deal to me. Anywhat! This was there and The BCPF couldn’t resist getting it. VG.
  • Pretenders – Pretenders — This completes our 79-89 Pretenders full-length album collection. They have stuff later but this was their heyday, so this is what we want. It has some great tunes including “Precious” and “Brass in Pocket.” VG++.
  • Squeeze  – Singles – 45’s And Under
  • Squeeze – Argybargy — We got two Squeeze albums yesterday and we’ve only gotten to listen to the “Singles” one so far. But, I had forgotten how many awesome songs this band had. Both of them were VG++.
  • The Cars – Candy-O — Just like Dire Straits, I have come to realize that I just downright love The Cars. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. This album, their second, has a lot of great stuff including “Let’s Go,” “It’s All I Can Do,” and “Dangerous Type.” VG++.
  • Robert Plant – Now And Zen — If I’m not mistaken, it’s the second time I’ve bought this album but the first time owning it. I believe this is the one that I purchased and immediately gave to my pal and bandmate, Clay Howard. I may be wrong, sure, but I believe that’s what happened. It has “Ship of Fools,” “Tall Cool One” and “Heaven Knows” and has a really cool feel and groove about the whole album. I dig it. VG++.
  • The Guess Who – The Best Of The Guess Who — I had this album on CD and didn’t realize how much I missed by just going after the “sexy” Rock 92 staples. Songs like “Laughing” and “Undun” are really good. I do wish (as annoying as it is) that they would have included the album version of “American Woman” but the meat of the song is here. Great listen. VG+.
  • Aldo Nova – Aldo Nova — I have passed over this about 20 times. It was a good price and I finally pulled the trigger on it. VG++.
  • Jackson Browne – World In Motion — VG++.
  • Jackson Browne – Lives In The Balance — I say I am a “fan” of Jackson Browne. However, I am usually more hit-or-miss with his stuff than I am full-on excited. These are two 80s albums. We will see if they’re hits or misses with me. VG+.
  • Billy Squier – Don’t Say No — This album was two before the one with “Rock Me Tonite” on it so he was still rockin’ and rollin’ at this point. Really, I don’t know why people flipped out over that video other than it was just awful. People are dumb. But, this has the hits “In the Dark,” “The Stroke,” “My Kind of Lover” and “Lonely is the Night.” But, there are so many other good songs on the album as well. You should get it or stream it or something if you’ve not heard it. VG++.
  • Isaac Stern, The Philadelphia Orchestra, Eugene Ormandy, Tchaikovsky/ Mendelssohn– Violin Concerto In D Major / Violin Concerto In E Minor — $1 bin find, but as per usual with classical records that we find in the $1 bin (or elsewhere), the classical music folks pretty much take care of their records. It was in really good shape, both the media and the cover. I rated it VG+ but could have gone VG++ if not for a little bit of “spotting” on the vinyl, even after my cleaning of it.
  • Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass – Christmas Album — The BCPF loves her Christmas albums, we both dig Herb Alpert and it was a $1 bin find. Why not jump on it!? Even for a $1 bin find it was in VG shape.

There you go, Dear Reader. Not only did we get awesome albums in this haul, many of them were VG++ and all of them were priced nicely. That’s what we missed being in Boston. We loved Boston but we missed our Saturday routine at Underdog Records. Deals like this week’s haul are what Underdog Records is all about. Plus, Jonathan is very helpful with finding the right equipment, old titles, he knows his inventory and is just the sweetest guy. Just yesterday a couple came in looking for cleaning supplies to be able to listen to some old records they had in storage. He helped them pick out the right stuff for what they needed and even gave away his “secret formula” recipe for the solution that I and several of the Underdog Records community use for cleaning records. He could have upsold some other stuff but he didn’t. He cares about your records. Watch the Instagram and Facebook feeds for the newest finds Jonathan has come across at Underdog Records. Also, listen to The Less Desirables every Wednesday night/Thursday morning (or anytime really) to hear the weekly TLD-exclusive deal.

Also, I stood in Underdog Records yesterday with my phone in my hand and every time I came across the titles above, I first checked on Discogs to make sure I didn’t already have it. Discogs is a great resource for all record, CD and even cassette collectors. The Marketplace is pretty awesome, too.

Until tomorrow, keep spinning…
Scorp out!

—
“Caroline laughs, and it’s raining all day, loves to be one of the girls. She lives in the place in the side of our lives where nothing is ever put straight. She turns herself ’round and she smiles and she says, ‘This is it, that’s the end of the joke.’ And loses herself in her dreaming and sleep, and her lovers walk through in their coats. Pretty in pink, isn’t she?” – “Pretty in Pink” (Ashton/Butler/Butler/Ely/Kilburn/Morris)