Tag Archives: Bob Dylan

Spinning (albeit not much) Sunday or: The Grab

20 Sunday Oct 2019

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I didn’t go to Underdog Records last week because Jonathan was on vacation. We didn’t go this week because I was at Pride from 8a until 7p yesterday. And, we haven’t really gotten to listen to many albums because we’ve been slammed both weekends and during the week.

TunnelOfLove1987

©Columbia

But, we got lucky when Chef Travis Myers brought me a boot box full of records. Many of them I already had so I looked to see which version I wanted to keep and put the discarded one in the boot box. The albums that we didn’t have I cleaned up and added to my Discogs (which we use to keep up with our collection). Thanks, Chef! All of these are to be considered VG+ unless otherwise noted. Here’s what we got:

  • Julio Iglesias – 1100 Bel Air Place — A collection of love songs from Julio and considered the breakthrough English-speaking album. It has “To All the Girls I’ve Loved Before.” VG++.
  • Starship  – No Protection — considered the “second” album from Starship, this is the follow up to Knee Deep in the Hoopla which had one of the most horrible songs ever, “We Built This City.” This had “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” from the film Mannequin. VG++.
  • The Platters – The Golden Sides of The Platters — 2xLP greatest hits album.
  • Barbra Streisand – Songbird — It has her solo version of “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” that she had done as a duet with the song’s co-writer, Neil Diamond.
  • Traveling Wilburys – Volume One — George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Tom Petty all on one album. That is a “supergroup.” VG++.
  • M1ke + The Mechan1c5 – Living Years — The second album by Mike Rutherford’s side hustle. I loved the first album. I like the title track of this one okay. VG++.
  • Bruce Springsteen – Tunnel Of Love — #467 on the RS list, this is actually a decent album, especially with “Brilliant Disguise,” the title track and “One Step Up.” I was happy to get this even if I’m not a huge Springsteen fan. VG++.
  • Neil Diamond – Heartlight — The title track made it all the way to #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in late 1982. It was Neil Diamond’s last top 10 pop hit and also his last #1 on the Easy Listening chart.
  • Melissa Manchester – Don’t Cry Out Loud — I don’t know much about this album, but I like a few of her tunes, so yeah.
  • Jonathan Butler – Jonathan Butler — I know absolutely nothing about Mr. Butler other than what’s on his Wikipedia page. He’s South African and he’s on Jive and it’s from 1987. That’s the label that Billy Ocean was on about the same time and the tune “Lies” from this album hit the Top 40 at #27. 2xLP VG++.
  • Barry Manilow – One Voice — I have no problem with Barry Manilow. This was his sixth studio album and came out in 1979. It only had one relevant tune, “Ships.”
  • Linda Ronstadt With Nelson Riddle & His Orchestra – Lush Life — I dig Linda Ronstadt and I dig Nelson Riddle. Standards with talent. I dig that, too!
  • Jane Olivor – Stay The Night — I’ve never heard of Jane Olivor before. Like Jonathan Butler, just what her Wikipedia page says. She had performance anxiety and dealt with her husband’s illness and passing. This album doesn’t have an entry on Wikipedia, either.
  • Julio Iglesias & Diana Ross – All Of You — 45RPM, 7″, Single, whatever you want to call it. It’s in its original sleeve and it’s in awesome condition.
  • Michael Bolton – (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay — Same as above.

Thanks, Chef, for the additions to my collection. Hopefully, now that Pride is over, I’ll have some listening time. Underdog Records is back up and being awesome again. Listen to each new episode of The Less Desirables to hear what the TLD/UR special is.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Woke up this morning my house was cold. Checked out the furnace she wasn’t burnin’. Went out and hopped in my old Ford. Hit the engine but she ain’t turnin’. We’ve given each other some hard lessons lately but we ain’t learnin’. We’re the same sad story that’s a fact. One step up and two steps back.” – “One Step Up” (Springsteen)

Sounds Like Saturday or: The Haul 7/13/19

14 Sunday Jul 2019

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Salutations™!!

Yesterday was a good day. The BCPF and I got up “early” and went to breakfast, then we ran to get a replacement battery for her phone and then headed to Underdog Records for some wax delights. We got some good stuff. It seems that the haul was slanted slightly toward The BCPF and that’s how most of it goes. That’s cool with me. “Happy wife” and all that. Here’s the haul:

Off_the_wall

©Epic Records

  • Drab Majesty – Modern Mirror — 2x45LP meaning they’re played at 45 RPM instead of the usual 33 1/3. Nowhere on that record can I find it conspicuously saying that it is 45. Oh well. Drab Majesty sounds a lot like old Depeche Mode or even New Order in spots. But, it has a modern feel to it as well. I hear songs from this when I was making the commercial for Underdog on TLD this week. It’s in an awesome clear blue vinyl (also available in clear red). New.
  • Versus – On The Ones And Threes — One of the first albums that I bought for The BCPF when we started “talking” was this album on CD. It had just come out and she made a big deal about “Versus is getting back together.” They had been apart for a while and got back together and did this album. It’s a good one. 2xLP. New.
  • Depeche Mode – When Love Is Enough (Early Demos) — She found this in the “Imports” section. It’s not an official release but is an awesome release. To hear the early demos of songs I’ve been listening to for a while was pretty awesome. At times Dave Gahan/Martin Gore sounded like some singer from the 40s on a phonograph or crank record player. Not great production but so fun to listen to. VG++.
  • Bob Dylan – Bob Dylan At Budokan — Seems like in the 70s everyone was doing an “At Budokan” album. This is Dylan’s. I skipped it because I really don’t like Dylan live, especially in this time period. It’s just gonna be some swooping and yelling, I’m sure. But, The BCPF didn’t skip it (I knew she wouldn’t) and here it is. VG++.
  • Various – A Very Special Christmas — This album was a big deal back in 1987 and it is sealed, so I had to get it. The album has been certified quadruple platinum and has raised millions of dollars for the Special Olympics. Like I said, “sealed” so technically it’s “new.”
  • Jeff Tweedy – Together At Last (Loft Acoustic Session I) — This is basically in NM condition and the only reason it wasn’t $20 is that the jacket spine has some damage. Tweedy is the lead singer for Wilco and this is some solo stuff. In fact, it’s considered his first “solo record.” NM.
  • Jeff Tweedy – Warm — This is his second solo record. NM.
  • Michael Jackson – Off The Wall — #68 on the RS List, it’s MJ and Quincy Jones doing their thing in 1979. Features the songs “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” and “Rock with You” and a plethora of A-List songwriters including Jackson himself, Rod Temperton, Carole Bayer Sager, David Foster and Sir Paul McCartney among others. VG+.
  • Fleet Foxes – The Electric Lady Session — I generally stay away from 7″ and 10″ singles/45s but it’s Fleet Foxes and my girl love Fleet Foxes so I made sure to get it for her. VG+.
  • John Cougar – John Cougar — The third (technically fourth) album by John Mellencamp and the first that he wasn’t called “Johnny Cougar” and the first on Riva Records. I have to say that the big hit on this album, “I Need a Lover,” annoys me. Really, the only thing that annoys me is that the intro goes on forever, for no reason. The rest of the song is great. And, I have to say, this is probably one of my favorite Mellencamp albums. I loved every song on it and really enjoyed listening. I’m glad I have it. VG++.
  • Graham Nash – Songs For Beginners — I got this for The BCPF. She didn’t even know I had it until we got home. Yay me! VG.
  • Mantovani And His Orchestra – Italia Mia — $1 bin find. You know we scour the $1 bin (as well as the regular bins) to find music from different countries. We’re suckers for that, as I’ve stated ad nauseam. Even though most of the records in the $1 bin aren’t in the most pristine shape, this one didn’t even need to be cleaned. Jonathan doesn’t rate $1 albums but I’m stepping out and saying this is VG+.

Had a great visit at Underdog Records yesterday. Got to talk with Jonathan. Got to be around records, which I absolutely love. Got to talk about a-holes that park incorrectly in the parking lot across the street and how it messes up the symmetry of the rest of the day. Saw a friend whose name I can’t really remember right now, but she was buying records and I love when new collectors come and browse. Just a good day. Then the Cobras had a game and won 72-0 and Ma ‘Rents, and Aunt and Uncle and My Sis and Bro-in-Law got to hear me in action. Great day all around. Oh, listen to the newest The Less Desirables to hear the TLD/UR special of the week.

I also use Discogs to track my collection. I am not ashamed (nor sorry) that I held up the “freshly used” section to look at my Discogs to see if I had stuff. This is what I do, dang it! Just kidding-ish.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Well, Shakespeare threw down his pencil. Said, I think I’m gonna start layin’ brick. Too much of this Romeo stuff enough to make anybody sick. ‘To be or not to be,’ I mean, what’s that supposed to mean? I’m changin’ my image tomorrow. Be a groupie, make the scene.” – “Pray for Me” (Mellencamp/Bec Var)

Spinning Sunday or: RSD Edition

14 Sunday Apr 2019

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Salutations™!!

As you saw for the last two days, I spent almost 20 hours on the sidewalk in front of Underdog Records, camping out, watching the weather, hoping against hope that it didn’t rain, had my hands butter scrubbed, had a new restaurant stop and offer us samples of their shrimp and grits, was joined by The BCPF, survived without any rain, worked with my friends to make sure we all got what we needed and came home and crashed. There was a lot more detail of this story, but we will probably focus on that later in the week. For today, here is the Record Store Day haul!

Trout_Mask_Replica

©Straight/Reprise Records

  • Captain Beefheart And His Magic Band – Trout Mask Replica — This was the reason I camped out, at least for me. I don’t really “like” this album but I love having it. It is #60 (of all spaces) on the RS list. I understand more about it since my first listen, I love the artistic value and respect the heck out of the project. It isn’t a pleasant listen but it is an interesting one. 2xLP reissue. All of these will be Near Mint or NM and I’ll tell how many were available worldwide. This one doesn’t have limited availability, from what I can tell.
  • Pink Floyd – A Saucerful Of Secrets — Last year it was Piper at the Gates of Dawn, Floyd’s debut album remastered in mono. This year it’s their sophomore effort and I can’t wait to listen to it. I really liked Pink Floyd with David Gilmour minus Syd Barrett. I understand the importance and somewhat maniacal genius that Syd was, but just like I like Peter Gabriel, I don’t really like Genesis with him. Barrett was on this album minimally as he was starting his slide. He was dismissed before the album was finished. The cover was designed by Storm Thorgerson of Hipgnosis and is based on a Doctor Strange comic. 6500 available.
  • Bob Dylan – Blood On The Tracks Test Pressing — We have Blood on the Tracks which is #16 on the RS list but this is the New York Test Pressing of the album. The
    “hype sticker” on the shrinkwrap reads: “The original New York version of Blood on the Tracks. Replica of the 1974 test pressing. Featuring unique mixes. Available for the first time ever.” So, The BCPF wanted this one, so that’s what she gets. Only 7500 available worldwide.
  • Fleetwood Mac – The Alternate Fleetwood Mac — The last two years’ RSD hauls have had a few “Alternate” Fleetwood Mac albums. 2017 was Alternate Mirage, 2018 Alternate Tango in the Night and now this. I haven’t listened to it yet, but I like the concept. It’s the entire album, in this case, but is all early takes or early versions. Should be cool. There are no “availability” numbers for this album on the RSD website.
  • Duran Duran – As The Lights Go Down (Live Oakland Coliseum ’84) — DD at their height. 2xLP but only three sides. Side 4 is etched. Only 5500 of these are available worldwide.
  • Frank Black – Frank Black — One of the several that I camped out for, for The BCPF. She tells me that it was released a month or so before she graduated high school and they rode around wearing the cassette out. I like what I’ve heard of it. I like it better than Pixies stuff. It’s orange, too. 4500 available.
  • Jeff Buckley – In Transition —  The BCPF loves her some Jeff Buckley and this is 7 previously unreleased performances of his tunes. Only 3000 worldwide.
  • Bingo Hand Job – Live At The Borderline 1991 — So, one of our fellow campers was looking online and came across this one. I don’t know if he was just researching or if he was intrigued by the name but when he looked it up, he found that it was really REM doing their “alias” thing and playing a club. So, being as we were the first four in line, we kept that secret and three of us grabbed them. Hey, we were the ones that camped for 20 hours, we got what we want. 3000 available.
  • a-ha – Hunting High And Low (The Early Alternative Mixes) — I love the original and these are the early alternate mixes making their vinyl debut. There are only 6000 worldwide.
  • The Charlatans – Some Friendly  — This was the title that The BCPF wanted the most. It was Charlatans UK to her (and it says that on the album cover). It is clear vinyl and only 1000 worldwide.
  • Peter Gabriel – Rated PG — I generally have sworn off picture discs, but hey, this is Peter Gabriel. This is a collection of his songs that have been on movie soundtracks. Supposedly, according to Discogs, it is numbered, but I don’t find any indication on mine of a “number.” It does include a digital download, though. Only 2000 worldwide.
  • David J – Thoughts And Prayers — Similarly with the picture disc model, I don’t usually get 7″ either. But, The BCPF wanted it and here it was. Only 500 worldwide.

So, people have asked me if it was worth it. Truly, the actual record buying was secondary to the camaraderie, conversation, friendship, community and experience. That, in and of itself was worth it. The vinyl we got, knowing that we are one of 500-6000 in the world that have one, is priceless. Thank you so much to Underdog Records, especially Jonathan, for being a place where we want to do such things, always having our backs in the inventory and letting us in to go to the bathroom before you go home, bringing us doughnuts and coffee the next morning and just being an all-around awesome dude. And, thank you, Discogs for being available to help us sort this crazy mess out. And, thank you, Record Store Day (yes it is an entity) for doing this awesome “holiday” twice a year. And, lastly, to David, Jordan, Bob, Michael, Taylor, Jay, and The BCPF, thank you for making it a great experience to be out there.

Until tomorrow, keep spinning…
Scorp out!

—
“Master, master. This is recorded thru uh flies ear ‘n you have t’ have uh flies eye t’ see it. It’s the thing that’s gonna make Captain Beefheart and his magic band fat. Frank, it’s the big hit. It’s the blimp! It’s the blimp, Frank! It’s the blimp!” – “The Blimp (Mousetrapreplica)” (Van Vliet)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul (12/22/18)

23 Sunday Dec 2018

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Salutations™!!

Yesterday was a pretty big haul, but it was a cheaper haul. I’ll explain more as we go. But, it was fun just being at Underdog Records, as it always is. It’s my candy store. Here’s the haul:

51Kzr-D77vL._SY355_

©Warner Bros.

  • Siouxsie And The Banshees – Peepshow — The BCPF and I had a good long discussion about why she likes the “Dark Wave” stuff so much. I don’t know that we ever got to the bottom of it, but she just digs it. This was a reissue of their 1988 album. New.

So, from here on, all the albums are $1 bin finds and unless otherwise noted, they are all in VG condition (mostly after cleaning them up). So, here we go:

  • Pablo Cruise – A Place In The Sun — I only really knew one song by Pablo Cruise, who I thought was a guy. I didn’t realize that it was a band in which none of them were named Pablo Cruise. They were a quartet and would always joke that Pablo was the one in the middle. There is a story behind the name, at least minimally, that I won’t get into because, well, that’s not why we’re here. This is the one that has “Whatcha Gonna Do?” which was the song that I knew. This was in really good shape, so I would maybe even rate it VG+, but that may be pushing it.
  • Pablo Cruise – Worlds Away — The other Pablo Cruise that I got, this was the follow-up to A Place in the Sun.
  • Sanford And Townsend – Smoke From A Distant Fire — I will admit that I got this album only because either Ed Sanford or Johnny Townsend (I don’t know which is which), on the cover, looks like a young, chubby Clay Howard. The duo were well-known studio musicians (weren’t they all in the 70s?) and songwriters who co-wrote good songs. I haven’t listened to this so I don’t know what they sound like.
  • Atlanta Rhythm Section – A Rock And Roll Alternative — This album has “So Into You” on it and I like that song. That itself was worth the buck.
  • Jim Steinman – Bad For Good  — For those who don’t know, Steinman was the musical mind behind the songs for Meat Loaf. In fact, this was supposed to be the follow-up to Bat Out of Hell but because of Mr. Aday’s vocal problems, Steinman recorded it himself. Meat Loaf did do some of the songs on some of his later albums. The cover is pretty beaten up, but the LP looks to be VG.
  • Jackson Browne – For Everyman — Browne’s sophomore effort. It contains his version of “Take It Easy” which was co-penned by Glenn Frey.
  • Elton John – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road — Okay, trying this again. Every time I get this 2xLP album it’s pretty beaten up and I have to continue looking. This one doesn’t seem to be too bad, but I haven’t played it, yet, either. I’ll keep you informed.
  • Bob Dylan / The Band – Before The Flood — The first officially released live album by Dylan, it’s his 15th album overall and the seventh from The Band. I know nothing of it, so we’ll see about it. Also a 2xLP.
  • Todd Rundgren – Todd — The last 2xLP for today, it’s Rundgren’s fifth album. I liked Something/Anything? so I am hoping I like this, too.
  • Steely Dan – Countdown To Ecstasy — I love me some Steely Dan and this has “Bodhisattva” and “My Old School,” which, the latter I love.
  • Stanley Clarke / George Duke – The Clarke / Duke Project — Stanley Clarke. ‘Nuff said.
  • Savoy Brown – Hellbound Train — Jonathan asked if I had ever heard this album and I said no. He then said he wanted me to have it. So he gave it to me. We listened to it. It’s pretty good. It’s a blues-rock band from England. Nothing overly exciting for me. I didn’t dislike it, though. Thanks, J.

For your holiday shopping needs, Underdog Records will be open today, Sunday from 11-4 and Monday (Christmas Eve) from 10-3. And, the big thing now is gift certificates, so make sure you either get yours or tell your loved ones to get you one. Listen to The Less Desirables each week to hear what the TLD/UR special of the week is. And, use Discogs to catalog your music collection, be it vinyl, CD or even cassette.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“So you’re having trouble with your romance? Well, you better check it out before it goes, yeah. ‘Cause you might not be seeing things just the way you should. And you don’t recognize what everybody knows. Whatcha gonna do when she says goodbye? Whatcha gonna do when she is gone?” – “Whatcha Gonna Do?” (Jenkins/Lerios)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 7/28/18

29 Sunday Jul 2018

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I did our Saturday thang all around. Mary’s Gourmet Diner, Underdog Records, Willows Bistro. I have to say, I made out with a great collection of Judas Priest albums. I have never really been huge into them but their older stuff is awesome, especially their first album, which I got. Speaking of which:

Rocka_Rolla_(Judas_Priest_album)

©Gull Records

  • Judas Priest – Rocka Rolla — The first Priest album. However, it wasn’t first here in the US. It was first in the UK and Europe in 1974. But, it wasn’t released here until 1979. This was back when Rob Halford was still “Bob” Halford. It wasn’t the “metal” Priest, either, just good early- to mid-70s hard rock. Great stuff. VG++!
  • Judas Priest – Sad Wings Of Destiny  — The second Priest album. They got a little harder on this one and started shaping up for what was the Priest to come. VG++.
  • Judas Priest – Sin After Sin — The third Priest album. Jonathan has it rated at VG and I haven’t listened to it yet, but J tends to be conservative in his ratings which is good, he doesn’t want to oversell anything. I have a feeling that this is probably closer to VG+. He says it has some surface noise but sometimes, that’s the beauty of vinyl.
  • Judas Priest – Unleashed In The East (Live In Japan) — I already had the fourth album from Priest (Stained Class) and haven’t found the fifth yet (Killing Machine or in the US it was called Hell Bent for Leather) but then comes this album, their first live album. I found it at Underdog Records in VG condition and again, I feel it is probably a little closer to VG+ but I’m going with VG.
  • Judas Priest – Turbo — Then comes the one everyone hates… except me. I don’t have the sixth studio album (British Steel), the seventh (Point of Entry) – which Jonathan had but I passed on it for whatever reason. I do have the eighth (Screaming For Vengeance). Jonathan had the ninth (Defenders of the Faith) but for whatever reason, I skipped on it, and then this one.  This was a very pop-heavy album. And by pop-heavy I mean it was filled with a poppier sound but it was also heavy. Many Priest purists down it because it wasn’t “their Judas Priest.” However, it was the first real introduction I had to any of their stuff and I loved it. I loved it more than most of their stuff I got to know later. So, “Parental Guidance” and “Turbo Lover” are some of my favorite Priest tunes. I get how cheesy they can be but I still loved it. It’s the first time, I believe, I’ve owned this record, though. VG+.
  • Bob Dylan – Infidels — I am so hit-or-miss with Dylan, especially the older he got. This came out in 1983 and I really don’t like all the scoopy-whiny crap he resorted to. This was VG+.
  • Bob Dylan – Empire Burlesque — Dylan’s next studio album after Infidels. Oddly enough, I didn’t hate it. There were some cheesish things on there but it wasn’t awful. This, too, was VG+.
  • Bob Marley & The Wailers – Catch A Fire — This is the 1974 reissue of the 1973 album. I have gotten to really like Marley even though I’m still not a huge fan of reggae as a whole. This though was pretty much background noise after a while. It was in VG condition.
  • Ric Ocasek – Beatitude — This album was really crappy which was a disappointment because I’m a fan of The Cars. I was hoping it would have been Cars-like but it was disjointed and seemed to have no cohesion throughout. It was in VG shape.
  • No Artist – Living French: A Complete Language Course — The BCPF and I are huge fans of the French, their language, their culture, them. We have both taken French over the course of our lifetimes. We got this 4×10″ set mainly because of the books that came with the set and it was only $1. I’d say the cover box was in VG- condition but the 10″ records inside were in VG+.
  • Daniel Ash – Coming Down — This was a “bucket list” item for The BCPF. I purchased it from Discogs Marketplace and this was the second attempt. The first attempt led to the seller not finding it. It worked out okay, though, I have another album I need on its way (both the replacement and this came from Europe/UK). So, she was excited because I didn’t tell her that I ordered another. I like giving her the things she likes. VG++.

I really wish I would have gotten those two Priest albums that I passed on at Underdog Records. Part of it was the cost was piling up, but I just said, Nah. I figure he sold them both before the end of the day. I’m going to check on Tuesday when he opens back up but I’m not getting my hopes up. I really encourage you to watch the Facebook and Instagram accounts for Underdog, because he always posts exciting things he’s getting in, be it equipment, re-stock or freshly acquired used stuff.

And, as you can see, you can get your “bucket list” stuff on Discogs Marketplace. I’d say 99% of the sellers are really easy to work with and they’re usually spot on about their grade ratings and are willing to work with you to make all right. I love buying from there. You just have to watch shipping from EU and UK as those costs can add up. I try to only buy from those who state their shipping costs up front.

Until tomorrow, keep spinning!
Scorp out!

—
“You say I waste my life away, but I live it to the full. And how would you know anyway, you’re just mister dull. Why don’t you get into the things we do today? You could lose twenty years right away, so we say. We don’t need, no, no no no parental guidance here.” – “Parental Guidance” (Tipton/Downing/Halford)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 6/23/18

24 Sunday Jun 2018

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Salutations™!!

_music1

©Swan Song

The BCPF and I were working to get the new studio ready to function for a good part of yesterday, but we did at least get by Mary’s Gourmet Diner and Underdog Records and were able to listen to several records before heading to Willows Bistro. Here’s the very short haul:

  • The New Year – Snow – I don’t know anything about this band but The BCPF digs them and that’s all I really need to know, right? Right. It was VG++.
  • Faster Pussycat – Faster Pussycat – I played “Bathroom Wall” in the first major band I was in that had any real recognition, The Blue. Not my favorite band but I couldn’t resist getting it. VG.
  • Bob Dylan – The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan – This is #97 on the RS List, which I think is asinine. I think it’s his best work. Certainly, it’s better than Blonde on Blonde. I hate that album. I would have been one of those folks upset that Dylan went electric because I think he wasn’t as good. The acoustic stuff with him, his guitar and his harmonica, is the best Dylan. It’s rated at VG- but I think it’s in pretty good shape.
  • Eurythmics – 1984 (For The Love Of Big Brother) – I love the Eurythmics and I love the story of 1984, although it’s scary as heck (kind of like today’s world). There weren’t any real hits on here, just the soundtrack of the film. VG.
  • Hoodoo Gurus – 1000 Miles Away – This is just a 12″ single on a picture disc. I am not a fan of picture discs as they tear the needle up, but The BCPF says it’s her favorite Hoodoo Gurus song and you don’t argue with her. It was in the $1 bin and it’s in VG shape.
  • Led Zeppelin – Presence – This completes my Zeppelin studio collection. However, several of the albums, including this one that I got in the $1 bin, are in pretty terrible shape. They were “well loved.” I will be finding replacements for those, eventually. The album is in “good” shape and the cover is in “fair” shape.

Short list this week; end of the month and all. Jonathan was pretty busy yesterday, which is good. He had Ozzy Osbourne’s first album, Blizzard of Oz which I was really hoping to get my hands on but, that didn’t work out. Oh well. I’ll keep looking for that one. Keep an eye on Underdog Records’ social media as there are always new things kicking in there. And, I’ll be doing something with Jonathan for The Less Desirables, too.

Discogs is my go-to for collection documentation. Every album I own is on my Discogs list (except the three that I will have to enter myself) and I can watch my friends’ lists as well.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Keep spinnin’!

—
“Well, it ain’t no use to sit and wonder why, babe. Ifin’ you don’t know by now. An’ it ain’t no use to sit and wonder why, babe. It’ll never do somehow. When your rooster crows at the break a dawn. Look out your window and I’ll be gone. You’re the reason I’m trav’lin’ on. Don’t think twice, it’s all right.” – “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright” (Dylan)

Spinning Sunday Plus One or: The Haul 6/2/18

04 Monday Jun 2018

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Salutations™!!

So, I promised that I’d make up for making Spinning Sunday “silent.” Here’s the haul from Underdog Records:

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©EWorks

  • Eels – The Deconstruction – 2×10″ LP in yellow. The BCPF is a fan of Eels and this was the newest thing. So, we got it! New.
  • Priest – New Flesh – I have become a fan of the band Ghost but have, oddly enough, never pulled the trigger on purchasing an album, on vinyl or otherwise. Ghost is a Swedish “Heavy Metal” band. Apparently, at least one of Papa Emeritus’ former “Nameless Ghouls” is in this band. But, it doesn’t necessarily sound metal. It sounds like a grinding Depeche Mode. I liked what I heard when Jonathan played it in the store and we got it. New.
  • Elvis Costello – My Aim Is True – #168 on the RS List. My dear pal Patrick Ferguson had it in his hands and allowed me to have it so I could add it to my collection and mark it off the list. VG++.
  • Ozzy Osbourne – Bark At The Moon – I know a lot of people are Randy Rhoades folk when it comes to Ozzy. I liked Randy, but I loved Jake E. Lee, too. In fact, my favorite album he was on (and my favorite Ozzy album altogether) is The Ultimate Sin. I have played the title cut of this album in a past band and it was always one of my favorites to play. VG.
  • Small Faces – 78 In The Shade – Okay, I’ll admit that I know little-to-nothing about Small Faces. I know that Steve Mariott was the vox. But, because I figure I need to have some, this was there, and just “why not?” VG++.
  • Wang Chung – Mosaic – Yeah, I love my cheesy 80s stuff and here are some of the biggest culprits. “Everybody Have Fun Tonight” and “Let’s Go” were the big hits on this, I believe. Near immaculate vinyl and plays great, according to Jonathan. VG++.
  • Bob Dylan – Hard Rain – A live album from Dylan. The BCPF loves him, we collect him. That’s how it is. VG+.
  • Corey Hart – First Offense – “Sunglasses at Night.” Yes, that one. I did mention the 80s cheese, right? Yeah, here’s my backup on that.

Though it was a short week, we had fun with it, had fun hanging around our friends, and drank a good bit of wine and beer. But, Underdog Records allowed us to keep our purchase with them while we walked to the festival.

Discogs helps me keep my collection organized and I love its random album ability. You should try it.

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Screams break the silence waking from the dead of night. Vengeance is boiling, he’s returned to kill the light. Then when he’s found who he’s looking for
Listen in awe and you’ll hear him bark at the moon.” – “Bark at the Moon” (Osbourne/Lee/Daisley)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 5/4-5/18

06 Sunday May 2018

Posted by in Records, Silent Sunday, Spinning Sunday

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Salutations™!!

First off, notice I changed the title of this one. It seems my Sunday posts are a bit verbose at times, and they’re usually about records. Neither of which really lends to the “silent” aspect of Silent Sunday. So, I think I’m changing the “haul” posts up a bit. I’ll still do Silent Sunday for non-record posts.

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©A&M

 

Well, this is a little different in the record category, as well. I went to Underdog Records, three different times from Friday to Saturday. I went on Friday because I didn’t think I’d get there Saturday because of a party we were having with a dear friend of ours. That included a bus and beer. Yep. Bus. Beer. And, also, on Friday, I was given a few records by a friend of mine. She said, here you can have these. Some of them ended up crossing off a few entries off the RS List. So, here’s what we got:

  • Poison – Open Up and Say…Ahh! – Yeah, I know it’s cheesy “hair metal” but I don’t care. I love this album. I think Bret Michaels sings perfectly well for what they were. Still, when people talk hair metal, I’d say 17 out of 20 would say Poison first. This was a reissue, so new.
  • Dr. Dog – Critical Equation – A new album from a band that, to me, sounds like a mixture between Robert Smith of the Cure and Bob Dylan. It’s right up The BCPF’s alley and that’s why I picked it. New.
  • Liz Phair – Exile In Guyville – #327 on the RS List, this was a reissue on 180g vinyl to celebrate its 25th anniversary. It’s a great album. She’s ballsy for a chick. That’s a good thing. New.
  • Bob Dylan – Desire – #174 on the RS List. It was there in the used bin and in VG condition.
  • Frankie Goes To Hollywood – Welcome To The Pleasuredome – Yep, this is the “Relax” album, which is all most people know about. My second favorite song from the band is also on this album, “Two Tribes (For the Victims of Ravishment).” VG
  • Ella Fitzgerald – Ella Fitzgerald Sings The Johnny Mercer Song Book – Ella. ‘Nuff said. VG+.
  • Crosby-Nash – Live – Another rendition/combination involving any or all members of CSNY. Jonathan said it’s great so well see. VG+.
  • Stephen Stills – Stephen Stills 2 – Another in the CSNY shuffle.
  • The Motels – All Four One – “Only the Lonely” is on this one. I love that song and I want to hear more from them. VG+.
  • Bruce Springsteen – Nebraska – #226 on the RS List, it was a little more on the subdued side. That’s okay. I think I gave it a neutral review on the list. VG+.
  • Journey – Infinity – The first with Steve Perry singing and the last with Aynsley Dunbar on drums. I’d say “Wheel in the Sky” was the big hit on this one. VG+.
  • Stan Getz – Stan Getz I hope this is as good as the other Stan Getz things I have. I love his stuff. VG.
  • Squeeze  – Cosi Fan Tutti Frutti – I like Squeeze. It was there. I grabbed it. Done. VG+.
  • Fleetwood Mac – Heroes Are Hard To Find – Pre-Buckingham/Nicks Mac with Bob Welch still in the band. I like Bob Welch. Let’s see what we got. VG+.
  • The Alan Parsons Project – Eve – Another in the Alan Parsons Project cannon! VG++.
  • 10cc – Bloody Tourists – I love the song “Dreadlock Holiday” which is about reggae. I think it’s a great song. We’ll see what the rest of it sounds like. VG++.
  • Supertramp – “…Famous Last Words…” – I see a few of my friends talk about this album as something special. I like Supertramp, let’s see. NM.

These are the ones that were “gifted” to me:

So, a pretty big haul there. Thanks, Lori for the gifts. And thank you Underdog Records for providing me a “candy store” to be proud of. And thanks to Discogs for providing such a great place for me to catalog my stuff!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp out!

—
“Winter is here again oh lord. Haven’t been home in a year or more. I hope she holds on a little longer. Sent a letter on a long summer day. Made of silver, not of clay. I’ve been runnin’ down this dusty road.” – “Wheel in the Sky” (Schon/Fleischman/Valory)

Silent Sunday or: The Haul 4/28/18

29 Sunday Apr 2018

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Salutations™!!

Yesterday was such a beautiful day and it was really relaxed since The BCPF and I didn’t have to camp out for the hectic scene that was Record Store Day. We walked, ate at Mary’s Gourmet Diner, bought records at Underdog Records, listened to records, and ate at Willows Bistro before getting home before 10:20p. A good day. Here’s our haul:

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©A&M

 

  • Okkervil River – In The Rainbow Rain – When I make the commercials for Underdog Records on Wednesdays, I try to incorporate some of the music that is being released in said commercial to give a little taste (observing ‘fair use’ rules, of course) and this was one that I used. I liked it and it sounded like something The BCPF would like. I’m always on the lookout for new stuff she may like. New.
  • The Rolling Stones – Get Yer Ya Ya’s Out – A live Rolling Stones album that was released originally about two and a half months before I was born. This, however, is the 1986 reissue. It was considered to be an audiophile copy at that time. This is in NM condition.
  • Weezer – Pacific Daydream – The latest album by Weezer that was released around Halloween last year. This is a really good album. It was fun to listen to. NM.
  • Tim Curry – Simplicity – The last of Tim Curry’s solo albums, this one from 1981. I liked listening to the other one I have, Fearless, even if it wasn’t great it was fun. I hope this one is. VG++.
  • A Flock Of Seagulls – A Flock Of Seagulls – The eponymous debut album featuring what is probably their most famous song “I Ran (So Far Away)” as well as “Space Age Love Song.” It was in great shape and I can’t wait to listen to it. VG++.
  • Frank Sinatra – Strangers In The Night – $1 bin find that we just couldn’t pass on. I love me some “Ol’ Blue Eyes” and here it was in VG shape.
  • Sinatra – Basie – Sinatra-Basie (An Historic Musical First) – Another $1 bin find for the same reasons above. Plus, it was the first time Frankie and Count Basie recorded together. VG.
  • Mungo Jerry – Mungo Jerry – The listing on Wikipedia shows no trace of “In the Summertime” but the copy I have does. I know it was released as a single the same year as this, so I am thinking that it was an album-independent single that did well and any subsequent releases of the album included it. That’s what I have, I think. It’s in VG condition and was a $1 bin find.

So, here, I have to say when I played in GSO on Friday, we went to another record store, CFBG Records. Jonathan says we weren’t cheating on him but I feel like we were. But, we got some cool stuff, even if the prices were crazy expensive for used stuff. I guess we’re just spoiled by Jonathan. Here’s that haul:

  • The Byrds – Younger Than Yesterday – #127 on the RS List and containing one of my favorite Byrds (well, Dylan) songs, “My Back Pages.” It’s in VG++ condition.
  • The Fixx – Phantoms – I have grown to love The Fixx and I was excited to find this here (well, The BCPF found it). VG+.
  • Bob Dylan – Blood On The Tracks – #16 on the RS List (I need five to finish the top 25). From what I remember I didn’t much care for it, but The BCPF is a sucker for Dylan. Plus, I needed it for the list. VG+.
  • INXS – Listen Like Thieves – The INXS album with “What You Need,” the title tune and “This Time.” Very excited about it. VG+.
  • Midnight Oil – Diesel And Dust – The one with “Beds Are Burning” on it. We got that one for free. There is a long scratch all the way across the first side but I’m hoping it will still play. If not, I will use it as the first of my vinyl repair experiment that I plan on doing. I’ll say VG, but that may not be true.

So, a pretty good haul and we’re excited about it. Lots of good stuff in there. Jonathan is back in the saddle after getting caught up from Record Store Day. So, follow Underdog Records on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and you’ll see what he is putting out each day. They’re open Tuesday to Saturday, 11a to 7p. Also, you can shop during off-hours by visiting their website.

Discogs lets me keep up with my collection so I don’t buy a lot of multiples and its Marketplace lets me find those hard-to-get items that Jonathan just never sees come through. It’s fun.

Until tomorrow, happy listening…
Scorp out!

—
“Crimson flames tied through my ears, rollin’ high and mighty traps pounced with fire on flaming roads using ideas as my maps. “We’ll meet on edges, soon, ” said I, proud ‘neath heated brow. Ah, but I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now.” – “My Back Pages” (Dylan)

Silent Sunday or: The Haul – Record Store Edition

22 Sunday Apr 2018

Posted by in Records, Silent Sunday

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Salutations™!!

So, the thing I want to say first is this: as much as I don’t mind the cold, sitting outside when the temperature drops to 41° and the wind comes barreling in at 3:45am in the morning and you’re in line for the Super Bowl of Records and Vinyl. That “ish” sucks like a Hoover. But, that’s exactly what we did right outside of Underdog Records. The BCPF and I camped along with a few of our vinyl friends all night Friday night/Saturday morning to be the first four (actually six but two pairs and two individuals) in the door to make sure we get our wants/wishlist filled for Record Store Day.

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©Warner Bros.

 

We went to eat at Mary’s Gourmet Diner directly after and then we went home and crashed for FIVE hours. We got up and listened a little before heading to Willows Bistro to have dinner with friends of ours, The Johnsons. Anywhat! You came for the list, right? I will say that all of these are brand new/NM (because I’m opening them). I’ll also put down who wanted and/or picked it up (Scorp/The BCPF). Here is the list:

  • Fleetwood Mac – The Alternate Tango In The Night – I love the original Tango in the Night. I was kind of disappointed with this. I mean, it’s good, but I was hoping for true alternate takes of “Big Love” and “Everywhere.” There were cool things on it, but I didn’t get my full satisfaction out of it but that’s okay. I’ll listen over and over anyways. This was my top RSD priority. (Scorp)
  • Living Colour – “Live From CGGB’s” Tuesday 12/19/89 – Actually picked up by The BCPF. She saw them open for the Rolling Stones on this tour and wanted to capture it. I’d think it was a little out of her wheelhouse but I was happy she got it. I have always loved what I’ve heard from Living Colour. 2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • The Cure – Mixed Up – A remastered remix album that came out on my 20th birthday (which, by the way, means 1990) and The BCPF loved it. It’s on a 2xLP picture disc set and it’s pretty awesome. I loved the remixes, too. I hadn’t heard them before.  2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • The Cure – Torn Down: Mixed Up Extras 2018 – A sequel to the 1990 remix album Mixed Up. It is even more remixes, done by Robert Smith. 2xLP. (The BCPF)
  • Adam Sandler – They’re All Gonna Laugh At You! – My favorite Adam Sandler album. I got the only one that Jonathan got in. I don’t know how many he ordered but he only received one. I think it’s Sandler’s best. A mix of really great sketches and really good songs. There may be a clunker here and there but overall, it’s great! I’m glad I was where I was in line because the guy behind us wanted it and he drove all the way from New Bern to do his RSD shopping. Sorry, Jason. Looking at his haul though, I’d say he spent close to if not over $1000 that day, so I figured I saved him a few bucks. 2xLP. (Scorp)
  • Ella Fitzgerald – Ella At Zardi’s – Zardi’s Jazzland was a jazz-focused music venue in Los Angeles in the ’50s. It was world-famous and a lot of top-name jazz folks played there, including, Ella. There were only two of these that Jonathan got and it was a top priority for The BCPF, which because our pal Michael got the other, left our friend Bill out. Sorry, Bill. 2xLP (The BCPF)
  • Wilco – Live At The Troubadour L.A. 1996 – The BCPF is a Wilco fan and this is a 2xLP of the band in their heyday, at their peak. I like Wilco pretty well. It’s not my favorite but it is cool. (The BCPF)
  • The Sundays – Reading, Writing And Arithmetic – The absolute top priority for The BCPF, this completes the Sundays trilogy. It’s a reissue but she had them all on CD when she was younger. I’m glad she got it. (The BCPF)
  • Jeff Buckley – Live At Sin-é – The Sin-é Coffeehouse in Manhattan’s East Village was a jumping in point for a good amount of well-known musicians, including Mr. Buckley. This 4xLP is the complete version of his 4-song EP that was released in 1993. The “Legacy” collection (4xLP) was released in 2003 but only on CD. I could be wrong but I believe this is its first time released on vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Madonna – The First Album – Picture disc of Madge’s first album with “Borderline,” “Holiday” and “Lucky Star.” It was surprisingly inexpensive. It will be fun listening to it. (The BCPF)
  • Neil Young – Roxy Tonight’s The Night Live – A live concert from Neil Young recorded in 1973, although the official release isn’t until next Saturday. Yay us for getting an early copy. It’s 2xLP but only three sides. The fourth side is etched. (The BCPF)
  • Pink Floyd – The Piper At The Gates Of Dawn – The mono version of the debut Pink Floyd album. I wasn’t going to get it but then I figured, I can’t not get it. I won’t get this chance again unless I am ready to pay 20% markup on them. I’ll admit this isn’t a favorite of mine but it is needed for the RS List (#347) but it’s a limited edition. (Scorp)
  • David Bowie – Welcome To The Blackout (Live London ’78) – As the title suggests, it’s live from 1978. Bowie wasn’t ever “not good” and I loved the late 70s/early 80s stuff. This is a 3xLP set, too. (Scorp)
  • David Bowie – Bowie Now – Compilation rerelease on white vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Lou Reed – Animal Serenade – A 3xLP live album recorded in Los Angeles at the Wiltern Theatre in 2003 after The Raven. The show features a drummer-less band (including Mike Rathke on guitar/synth, bassist, vocalist Fernando Saunders, and the cello of Jane Scarpantoni). Reed delivers dramatic readings of some of his most compelling work. In addition, Anohni, of Antony and the Johnsons fame, contributes background vocals throughout and sings the lead on “Set The Twilight Reeling” and “Candy Says.” (The BCPF)
  • Duran Duran – Thanksgiving Live – The Ultra Chrome, Latex And Steel Tour – A 2xLP of Duran Duran on tour in 1997. (Scorp)
  • Duran Duran – Budokan – A brief live performance from Duran Duran in Japan. There are only nine songs, but they sound fantastic. Simon’s voice is on point and you can really hear everything coming through. (Scorp)
  • Dylan & The Dead – Dylan & The Dead – Just what it sounds like it would be. You can guess who picked this one up but I’ll give you a hint, it was not me. (The BCPF)
  • The Rolling Stones – Their Satanic Majesties Request – I’m very surprised this wasn’t on the RS List. A cool lenticular cover and gatefold packaging. I like KISS’ version of “2000 Man” better, but this isn’t bad. It’s on blue-splattered vinyl. (The BCPF)
  • Human League – Secrets – Vinyl debut and reissue of their 2001 album. (Scorp)
  • Sufjan Stevens – Mystery Of Love – 10″ transparent vinyl of Sufjan Stevens single from the soundtrack of Call Me By Your Name. (The BCPF)

So, by my count, that’s 13 for The BCPF and 7 for Scorp. Not a contest at all and it just is what it is. We both got what we wanted and that’s cool. The only thing I missed was the reissue of the Whitesnake ’87 album which I’ll find somewhere later. It was just a good haul. If I haven’t already told you how much we paid, privately, you’ll have to just guess. No reason to broadcast that, but I will say it was over $70.

Jonathan was swamped but in a great mood when we left, I hope it stayed that way and I hope he made all his money back and more. I believe he’s open today for a rare Sunday opening. That may have changed but may not have. Check the Underdog Records social media channels.

Surprisingly, Discogs had all of them in by the time I got to them, however, some were just the European versions (which should be about the same), so I’ll go looking for the US versions to make the collection listing more accurate. That’s it, I’m still tired and I’m out!

Until tomorrow, same blog channel…
Scorp is worn out!

—
“Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am home again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am whole again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am young again. Whenever I’m alone with you, you make me feel like I am fun again.” – “Lovesong” (Smith/Gallup/Thompson/O’Donnell/Williams/Tolhurst)