Tag Archives: Discogs

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 02/20/21

21 Sunday Feb 2021

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I each got our hair cut yesterday. We went to the same person and we just took turns with Cynthia Pratt-Miller at Hair Bomb Hair Salon which is conveniently directly beside Underdog Records! Having Mojito for lunch was delicious but dang! It was cold on that patio. Yesterday was a mild day temp-wise but the patio at Mojito is a breezeway. It’s between two buildings and there’s an arched roof so the wind just gets pushed through there. That’s great when it’s 90° out, but when it’s only 40°…? Whew! But, the food was delicious and it was worth the misery to have it. Here’s the haul:

©Vertigo

Built To Spill – There’s Nothing Wrong With Love — Whilst The BCPF was getting her ‘do did, I was shopping and talking with Jonathan. I saw this, checked Discogs to make sure we didn’t have it and had Jonathan put it behind the counter so she couldn’t see it. When we got home, I told her that I had a surprise for her and within the first two seconds (if that) of Side A, I heard an audible gasp and her eyes got wide. She came over and hugged me hard. I felt good about that. She has never sang in front of me, be she did look at me and pantomime a good bit of it to me. Again, that made me feel good, making her feel good. She said it’s from her early college days. New.

Pixies – Bossanova — So from her college days, we back up a little bit and hit her high school years. The Pixies are always hit-or-miss with me, but they’re almost always hit for her. She got this one on her own. Reissue on 180g vinyl. New.

Cherry Glazerr – Haxel Princess — We picked up a Cherry Glazerr album in 2019 and I remember enjoying it. It was the latest release from them at the time. This is their debut album from 2014. I love the cover and it reminds me of a friend of mine. Red Translucent vinyl. New.

David Bowie – The Man Who Sold The World — Jonathan had just gotten a shipment and was checking them in when I saw this. I had to look it up and was surprised that we didn’t already have it. I could have sworn we had. But, we hadn’t, so I rectified that; made it right, if you will. Textured cover, LP in poly-lined inner sleeve. Additional replica of the original paper inner sleeve included. Remastered, 180g. New.

Yo La Tengo – Sleepless Night — 12″, 33 ⅓ RPM, Single Sided, EP released last year. Original cover art by Yoshitomo Nara. Drawing of the band by Georgia. Illustration by James etched on the record’s flip side. A Sleepless Night poster was included with EPs preordered prior to August 28, 2020 yet this wasn’t what we did. These tracks were originally available as part of a multi-media catalogue from artist Yoshitomo Nara published by Los Angeles County Museum of Art for Nara’s eponymous exhibition in 2020. The etching on Side B is pretty cool. New.

The Zombies – R.I.P. — Limited Edition Record Store Day 2015 release. 5600 pressed. Intended as the follow-up to the iconic Zombies album Odessey And Oracle. This is the first legitimate vinyl release of the never issued Zombies R.I.P. album as it was intended in the United States. Reissue, 180g. NM.

Various – Original Soundtrack From The Vestron Motion Picture – Dirty Dancing — Yeah… and? I have no problem saying this. I love this album. I loved it (and kind of liked its companion Vol. 2) when it came out. I was 17. I love pop music. I loved the Patrick Swayze song. I’m not ashamed. I like what I like. And there you have it. VG+.

The Clash – Give ‘Em Enough Rope — Reissue on blue Epic labels, with original JE cat. # prefix. Jacket front cover is second U.S. issue with “Oriental”-style block font. Jacket back cover includes barcode and updated B5 track title and credits. “P” stamped in runouts denotes Columbia Records Pressing Plant, Pitman, pressing. Track B4 title on jacket: “Cheap-skate.” First cat. # on labels, jacket spine. Second cat. # on jacket back cover. That’s all from the notes on Discogs. VG+.

Now, this one…
Dire Straits – Brothers In Arms — Yes, I had this already. But, again, I didn’t. The original US vinyl versions had truncated versions of every song on the first side minus one, “Walk of Life.” I am so over that song and, honestly, I think it’s the worst song on the album. So, of those first five songs four of them were shortened. The biggest travesty of that was the extended saxophone solo at the beginning of “Your Latest Trick” being completely omitted. Now, I get it, media constraints dictated that they had to cut some stuff. I wish they had cut “Walk of Life” completely, but it was a big hit for them.

Brothers in Arms was one of the first albums for the CD market, and was a full digital recording (DDD) at a time when most stuff was recorded analog. I remember seeing a lot of ADD on CDs back then. Producer Neil Dorfsman says the digital multitrack was mixed on an analog board with the resulting two track mix re-digitized via a Prism A/D converter and recorded on a DAT machine. I had this on cassette and where that was dependent on amount needed, the cassette presented full versions of the songs. I then had it on CD and it, too, had full versions. I was so disappointed to hear the truncated songs.

All (or most) of Dire Straits catalog was reissued just earlier this year and on double LPs (in some cases) with remastering and all that. But, for whatever reason, even though this album was on 2×LP, I was informed that it was still the truncated versions. I didn’t get it and I still don’t. If you expand to the 2×LP model, then you can easily expand to full-versions.

Well, this made me have to search and seek elsewhere. I found this version on the Discogs Marketplace and reading through the descriptions, this one, released in 2015 by Mercury for their “Back2Black” collection, was 2×LP with what I sought. I had a great back-and-forth with the seller who happened to be UK and Poland (he has inventory in both places). There were no listings of run times on the cover (and not on the label either, I found out), and he was pretty sure this was the right version. It was sealed so he couldn’t look on the inside. I took a chance. Worst case scenario, I got a really good copy and could sell my VG+ back to Jonathan for credit. I got it yesterday. It was waiting for me on my porch when we got in from our Saturday trek. I opened the packaging, still reluctant and when I played it, everything was there in its full-glory. I was ecstatic! So, now I have the full-on album, the way it was intended. Thanks to Andrew for your help and thanks to Discogs for giving me a place to shop for records when Jonathan can’t get me something. He checked and it wasn’t available through any of his distributors. So, I had to step out but I am so happy to have this. And the album is amazing.

Jonathan and I are still in discussions about how this new project we’re working on will go, but just keep your eyes peeled. It is indeed coming. Go by and check out Underdog Records, open 11a-7p Thursday – Saturday and he does deliveries Monday – Wednesday (weather permitting). He will ship to you, as well. You can look at what he has for sale (unused, new vinyl only) by visiting the Underdog Records website. Tell him that I sent you! Obviously, I also use Discogs to track my collection and buy from the Marketplace when I need something.

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“She’s like the wind through my tree. She rides the night next to me. She leads me through moonlight only to burn me with the sun. She’s taken my heart but she doesn’t know what she’s done.” – “She’s Like the Wind” (Swayze/Widelitz)

Spinning Monday or: The Haul 2/13/21

15 Monday Feb 2021

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Salutations™!!

Moving the Haul to today so I could rant yesterday. You know how it is, Dear Reader.

Saturday was a good day. Breakfast, Underdog Records, records listening, dinner, binge watching The Crown and Will & Grace. Here’s the haul, I think we got good stuff:

©Red Star/BMG

Nat King Cole – Nat King Cole Golden Treasury “Unforgettable” — Our ever-expanding Nat King Cole collection got six records bigger. This 6×LP collection is in VG++ shape (best I can tell) and is chock-full of Nat’s finest tunes. 60 tunes to be exact. The Canadian version had an extra LP with 10 extra songs. The box is nice and is probably in VG shape. It is an original 1966 edition.

Suicide – Suicide — The 1977 debut album from this eclectic, somewhat weird and groundbreaking American duo. It’s synth punk, early new wave, somewhat minimalist synth pop. It was #441 on the RS list that matters and slipped to #498 on the one that doesn’t. It’s on blood red vinyl. New, remastered, deluxe and limited edition.

Various – Streets Of Fire – Music From The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack — “I Can Dream About You” from Dan Hartman would have been enough to buy this record. Really, that is why I bought the record. That and I didn’t already have it. I thought the film was decent and I just wanted it. It’s a club edition which really makes little difference to me. It is BMG/RCA club which tends to be a little less on quality than the Columbia House versions, but whatever. VG+.

ZZ Top – El Loco — Two Beards with a Beard (what I call ZZ Top) had a classic rock, Texan blues based sound in the 70s and with this album, started a trend that opened them to a whole new audience (like me) and synths started to become part of the process. The hits from this were “Tube Snake Boogie” and “Pearl Necklace.” Both which were innuendo and double entendre. This was the last album before the first time I heard of the band which was the next album, Eliminator. That’s right, I had never even heard of them until then. VG++/EX.

AC/DC – Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap — I’ve never been a huge AC/DC fan but this album, Highway to Hell and Back in Black, I love. Heavens Sake did “Big Balls” and I really enjoy that tune. This is in EX condition.

Buffalo Springfield – Buffalo Springfield — This was the original pressing of this album because it does not have “For What It’s Worth” on it. That song was released as an independent single and did a great job. ATCO (the record company) decided to repress the album with that song on it, so to capitalize. This doesn’t have it, so it’s an original pressing. It’s a decent shape. Jonathan has it listed as VG, and overall I think that’s correct. The cover is VG/VG- to me.

Underdog Records was kicking it when we went in. Few people when we first got there (right after opening) but people started shuffling in. Good for Jonathan! So, we haven’t worked all the details about it yet and I don’t want to mention half details but I can say that Jonathan and I are rebooting the Beeswax Vinyl & More podcast. Some aspects of the old show may stick around while new aspects will be added. When we have things nailed down to format, I’ll write a post about that.

Meanwhile, go to Underdog Records for all your vinyl needs, be it turntables, protective sleeves, dust brushes, or the records themselves. They are opened Thursday-Saturday with store-to-porch deliveries (weather permitting) Monday-Wednesday. You can shop NEW vinyl, anytime, day or night, by visiting the Underdog website.

I use Discogs to track my collection and on occasion add to it from the Marketplace. I’m waiting on a purchase, now, so hopefully by next weekend I can tell you some good news.

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“If you’re having trouble with the high school head, he’s giving you the blues. You wanna graduate, but not in his bed, here’s what you gotta do: pick up the phone, I’m always home. Call me anytime. Just ring: 3-6, 2-4, 3-6, hey! I lead a life of crime!” – “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” (Young/Young/Scott)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 2/6/21

07 Sunday Feb 2021

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Salutations™!!

Yesterday was Jonathan’s birthday, so The BCPF and I went to a local coffee shop and got him a special coffee and pain au chocolate. He turned 40! Yay, him!! Here’s our haul:

©Atlantic

Pat Benatar – Wide Awake In Dreamland — This was her last rock oriented album of the 80s. She went bluesy after that. I didn’t really care for this album after listening yesterday. The hit, “All Fired Up” was okay but meh to the rest of it. EX.

The Firm – The Firm — An 80s supergroup featuring Paul Rodgers of Bad Company, Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, Chris Slade who was in several bands including Uriah Heep and AC/DC, and vagabond bassist, Tony Franklin. Their biggest hit was “Radioactive” off of this album. I have always liked that song. EX.

John Renbourn – The Lady And The Unicorn — I know nothing about this. This was The BCPF’s doing. I think he is a folk guitarist who did some solo and ensemble work throughout his career. He passed in 2015. VG+.

Arthur Buck – Arthur Buck — This is a collaboration/side project with Peter Buck from REM fame and singer-songwriter Joseph Arthur in which Buck and Arthur share songwriting duties. This was their eponymous debut album that came out in June 2018. It’s a bit weird, upbeat, eclectic. Not what I expected from Peter Buck. I don’t know who Joseph Arthur is. This was a Barnes & Noble exclusive and is signed (under the cellophane), limited to 500 copies. We opened it because records are for listening. NM.

Serge Gainsbourg & Jane Birkin – Jane Birkin – Serge Gainsbourg — Originally released in 1969. Remastered from the original tapes. Gatefold LP includes insert with new detailed liner notes and English / French lyrics. That part alone should tell you why we got this… French. NM.

The Cars – Door To Door — According to Wikipedia: Door to Door is the sixth studio album by American rock band the Cars, released on August 25, 1987, on Elektra Records. The album was self-produced by band members Ric Ocasek and Greg Hawkes. Three singles were released from the album, though only “You Are the Girl” reached the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at #17. The album was the lowest charting album to date for the band, only peaking at #26 on the Billboard 200, and within a year of its release the band would break up. Door to Door was the group’s last studio album before they disbanded in 1988. It was also the last Cars record to feature Benjamin Orr before his death in 2000. The band would not release another studio album until 2011’s Move Like This. I don’t recognize any of the tunes from this but, we haven’t listened to it, either. NM original pressing.

Warrior – Fighting For The Earth — I got this because it looks like the early- to mid-80s “heavy metal” that I’ve been seeking out lately. I do know that Vinnie Vincent (who was in KISS briefly and Vinnie Vincent Invasion) was in a band called Warrior but they only got to the demo stage. There is a guy that looks like Vinnie on the back cover but he’s not in pink, so I don’t know. Actually, I do know, Vinnie isn’t on this. I also don’t think it’s the same band. That was back in 1981/1982 or so. This is from 1985. I don’t know what to expect, I’ll report back when I listen. VG+.

Triumph – Thunder Seven — Although I know little about Triumph over all, I know that I do like what I have heard. “Follow Your Heart” is on this one. It was worth it for that track alone. I know Triumph gets pushed out of the way as a three-piece rock outfit from Canada for another three-piece rock outfit from Canada, Rush. I’ll let you know how it is. EX.

Foreigner – Inside Information — This is the sixth studio album by Foreigner, released in 1987. The album debuted at 15, on the Billboard 200 Albums Chart and was certified Platinum in the U.S. It was the last album to feature the 80’s core lineup of Gramm, Jones, Wills, and Elliott. “Say You Will,” “I Don’t Want to Live Without You,” “Out of the Blue,” and “Heart Turns to Stone” were on this album. Gramm left to do his solo thing. I’ve seen Foreigner live in Disney World with whomever the singer was in 2013. Wasn’t a bad show. Club Edition (CRC), EX.

Jonathan and his girlfriend, Kerri were taking off after work yesterday to go on a mini-vacation. Good for them. If you go to the website and order something, just know that it may be a few days before he gets back with you. Be patient.

Use Discogs to track your collection.

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“Well, I’m not uptight, not unattractive. Turn me on tonight ’cause I’m radioactive.” – “Radioactive” (Rodgers)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 1/30/21

31 Sunday Jan 2021

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Salutations™!!

©Up Records/Warner Bros

The BCPF and I started our day at Clementine’s to have some fantastic breakfast. We then headed over to Underdog Records, found some good stuff and came home for some listening. Here’s the haul:

Poison – Look What The Cat Dragged In — Yeah, I know it’s cheesy and truth be known it doesn’t hold up well. I know a lot of people hate Bret Michael’s voice. Some hate the glam aspect, because let’s face it, when you think of glam metal/hair bands, who do you think of first? Probably Poison. But, here’s the thing. It came out at a time where I was just getting introduced to a whole different world of music, thanks to me finally getting MTV. So, it was new to me. Here’s the thing. I thought it was and I still think it is fun. It’s not a masterpiece and it didn’t or doesn’t have to be. I just enjoyed listening to it. And, that’s all that matters. It’s a “club edition” but in EX. It was well taken care of.

The Love Language – Ruby Red — This is The BCPF’s jam. Well, maybe not this band per se, but they’re signed to Merge Records and just about everything Merge puts out is her jam. This band is basically Stuart McLamb and is from Raleigh, NC. To me, it sounds like Superchunk but with a singer that can stay on key. No offense Mac McCaughan. It’s a good listen. New.

Julie London – Around Midnight — Jazz standards from the singer/actress. Julie London was married to Jack Webb of Dragnet fame. She also had a recurring role on the medical drama Emergency! She sometimes smoked three packs of cigs a day. I haven’t heard this yet but it’s bound to fantastic! No sarcasm there, either. This is original pressing of the stereo mix. It was released the same year (but after) as the mono mix. VG.

George Harrison – Brainwashed — This is the twelfth and final studio album by the ex-Beatle. It was released posthumously in 2002, almost a year after his death at age 58 (just eight years older than I am right now, wow…), and 15 years after his previous studio album, Cloud Nine. Recordings began over a decade before Harrison’s death but were repeatedly delayed. The album’s overdubs were completed by his son Dhani, session drummer Jim Keltner, and longtime friend and collaborator Jeff Lynne, according to Wikipedia. It was a great listen and “Marwa Blues” is a great instrumental track. It was nominated for Grammys. NM.

Built To Spill – Keep It Like A Secret — The BCPF and I have seen this band live together. She swears there’s something different about this than her CD copy. I believe her, but I find no evidence of that online anywhere. The one difference I see is that there is a bonus track on this vinyl version, which is a reissue and split to 2×LP to enhance the audible experience. I liked it. It’s good stuff. New.

Jonathan had a steady stream of customers yesterday. Things look to be picking up. Only 6 people are allowed in the store at one time, and while we didn’t see that yesterday, we have seen people waiting to get in over the last few weeks. I love that rock/hard rock/heavy metal folks are selling their collections to Jonathan. Most of it is black/death metal, which I’m certainly not into, some of it is just good straight-ahead rock! I love it. Underdog Records is open Thursday-Saturday from 11a-7p and Jonathan does deliveries and store pickups by appointment only Monday-Wednesday. You can shop for new vinyl, day or night, 24/7 by visiting the Underdog Records website. Follow him on social media, especially Instagram, to see what he had just acquired and is putting out for purchase! Use Discogs to keep track of your collection. You won’t be sorry!

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“You know I call you, I call you on the telephone. I’m only hoping that you’re home. So I can hear you when you say those words to me and whisper so softly.” – “Talk Dirty to Me” (Michaels/DeVille/Dall/Rockett)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 1/23/21

24 Sunday Jan 2021

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I got off to a late start yesterday and finally made it to Underdog Records, which was jumpin’, by the way. We bought our four records and went and had some delicious brunch at a new place in town called Clementine’s Gourmet Toast and Juice Bar. Check out The Man Who Ate the Town’s IG for more on that. Here’s the haul:

©Music For Nations/Roadrunner

Genesis – A Trick Of The Tail — This is the seventh studio album by the band. It was released in January 1976 and was the first album to feature drummer Phil Collins as lead vocalist following the departure of Peter Gabriel. It did quite well in the UK and U.S., reaching No. 3 and No. 31 respectively. As I have stated so many times, I have a love/don’t care attitude with the Genesis brand. I love Peter Gabriel. I really like Phil Collins-led Genesis. I do not like Genesis with Peter Gabriel. This is a great album, still with Steve Hackett on guitar, and it sounds amazing! I had never had this on vinyl, only on CD after the remastering in 2007. Gatefold, 180g Yellow Vinyl. Rhino “Start Your Ear Off Right” Release. New.

Genesis – Duke — This is the tenth studio album by Genesis, released in March 1980. The band had been dormant for a bit. Phil Collins moved to Canada in an effort to salvage his failing marriage, while Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford recorded solo albums. Collins returned to the UK and wrote a a lot of material in the wake of the end of that relationship. Some of the tunes were used for Duke and some tunes were reworked for his first solo album, Face Value. This has two of my favorite Genesis songs, because I like hits: “Misunderstanding” and “Turn It On Again.” They were still doing their prog thing at this point but the radio-friendly hits (the ones that I like best) were starting. We had this but it was only in VG or so. 180g Vinyl – Rhino “Start Your Ear Off Right” Release. Limited edition of 3350.

Sebadoh – III — As you may have guessed, this was Sebadoh’s third album, released in 1991. Sebadoh, if you’re not aware is one of The BCPF’s favorite bands. At least her favorite kind of band. We have seen them live once together and I believe she had seen them before. She has a “secret” crush on Lou Barlow, one of the founders and lead singers and guitarists. He’s also part of Dinosaur Jr. and Folk Implosion, probably best known for their tune “Natural One.” She got to smell his hair at that Sebadoh show we saw. It’s classic Indie rock at it’s best and it was a good listen. NM.

Battleaxe – Burn This Town — One thing I noticed yesterday was that someone had come and off-loaded their entire heavy metal collection. Most of it was later-year death metal but this one interested me. I knew it was from 1983 and that it looked like that period. So, I said, let’s give it a try. I haven’t listened to it, yet but I asked Eugene and Bob (drummer from Heavens Sake who was all over this kind of music), both who are my 80s heavy metal gurus, so to speak and neither had heard of them. Bob did some digging and found this: They were a relatively obscure early 80’s NWOBHM band. Imagine Saxon, Motorhead, early Priest…with a raw, 70’s style sound. I heard like 3 songs and liked all three. Would’ve loved it when I was young. They just never caught on. I have recently gotten into the early Judas Priest so I’m looking forward to hearing this. Eugene said he would have overlooked it because the cover looked cheap, but there’s a reason for that. According to Wikipedia (the end-all/be-all of internet truths): …they entered the recording studio to make a demo called “Burn This Town”. In doing so, they garnered the attention of Roadrunner Records and the result was their first album… It went on to say: Once a deal had been struck with Roadrunner Records, the master tapes were sent to Roadrunner Records and the album title was agreed upon as Burn this Town. The record company asked the band for some concept ideas for the cover artwork, so the guys asked a friend and local artist Arthur Ball if he could come up with anything. He then produced the first Burn this Town cover artwork as it is now, but only as a rough proof drawing, and stated that, if it were approved by the record company, he would redraw the whole thing again to a much higher standard. However, when Roadrunner received the proof artwork for approval, they went ahead and pressed 2000 units for a worldwide release without the band’s consent. The original Burn this Town cover artwork is one of the most talked-about album covers in heavy metal history. The graphic looked amateurish, and the band worried what it might do to their reputation. However, the music did the talking and the album sold well. The band began developing a reputation in the region as a solid heavy metal outfit. The sleeve is VG/VG+ but the media is EX.

Sorry that last one was extra verbose, I just wanted to give what I knew about it and let on that I was really looking forward to hearing it.

Underdog Records is open Thursday-Saturday from 11a-7p and Jonathan does in-store pickups, curb service, and store-to-porch deliveries Monday-Wednesday. You can shop his new inventory, day or night, 24/7 by visiting the Underdog Records website. I know I keep teasing this, but there is news coming from Jonathan and me in the (hopefully) very near future. I use Discogs to track my collection, value the collection and sometimes buy for the collection.

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“Since then I’ve been running around trying to find you. I went to the places that you always go. I rang your house but got no answer. Jumped in my car, I went ’round there. I still don’t believe it. He was just leaving.” – “Misunderstanding” (Collins)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 1/16/21

17 Sunday Jan 2021

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I got up and headed to Underdog Records grabbed our goodies (he was busy, that was good) and then literally got in our own bubble and had lunch at The Porch. Lots of record listening yesterday, too. A good day. Here’s the haul:

©Dine Alone Records

Crosby, Stills & Nash – Crosby, Stills & Nash — Yes, we already had this one, but this was a reissue and still sealed. The one we had was in Fair condition at worst, Good condition at best. So, we decided to upgrade. The album is fantastic, so why have a crappy copy? New.

Neil Young + Stray Gators – Tuscaloosa — It’s a 2×LP/3-Side record with Side D being etched art. Recorded at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa on February 5th, 1973. Gatefold jacket with cardboard inner sleeves containing photographs. Sealed. New. I didn’t realize until just now that while they are separate, we got CSN&Y yesterday.

New Order – Western Works (Demos 7-9-80) — This excerpt from Discogs: An interesting excerpt from a 2014 University of Sheffield News on-line post regarding the Western Works recording studio at the University of Sheffield:

The John Pemberton Lecture Theatres in the School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR) are as close as it is possible to get to site of the former Western Works, where Cabaret Voltaire and countless other pioneering Sheffield industrial and post-punk bands made their mark on the music scene.

From 1978, Cabaret Voltaire rented rooms on the top floor of Western Works, which stood at the corner of Regent Street and Portobello. Having private recording and rehearsal space was unusual for bands of that era, which led to the building becoming a magnet for like-minded groups including Clock DVA, New Order and Lydia Lunch.

But the building was demolished in 1993 and now has a very different use as the home to ScHARR and the University’s Department of Computer Science.

I don’t know what we’ll get from this but since Ian Curtis died in May, 1980 and New Order came from the chaos of the demise of Joy Division and this is from July, 1980, it wasn’t long after Curtis’ death. They had decided to go on nearly at the same time. I wonder how much of this was supposed to be Joy Division and they just reworked it? Well, I know “Ceremony” was a Joy Division song and the first singly from New Order and only two of the tunes on this demo made it to Movement, the debut New Order album. Interesting to me, anyway. New. Import. 12″ 45RPM.

Jeff Tweedy – Love Is The King — As much as I want to like Jeff Tweedy and Wilco, I just cannot get into him. I think he’s overrated and is a warbly, off-key singer. I just can’t. But, I bought this because of The BCPF. She is so into him. New. Clear vinyl.

City And Colour – If I Should Go Before You — This is the one that I was most excited about. I saw Dallas Green (who is City and Colour, by the way) do “Rain When I Die” from Alice in Chains’ induction into the MoPop (Museum of Pop Culture founded by Paul Allen and his sister, Jody Patton). I thought it was a fantastic rendition and loved his voice. I thought it would please The BCPF because it is right up her alley. I got this album for me but hoped it would be something she liked. She admitted to me that she had heard a few things by City and Colour and thought I had gotten it for her. She hadn’t heard this one and we both loved it. It is my favorite musical acquisition so far this year. It is darn good. The name City and Colour comes from Dallas (city) Green (color/colour) himself. This was his fifth album under this name and came out in 2015. Jonathan special ordered it for me. It’s 2×LP, 45RPM, 180g. New.

As I said earlier, Jonathan was rocking the store yesterday. Good crowd (only six allowed in at a time), good tunes over the stereo, good times all around. Underdog Records is open Thursday through Saturday 11a-7p and does deliveries and shipping Monday-Wednesday. You can order day or night 24/7 by visiting the Underdog Records website. I use Discogs to track my collection and if you see me at the record store, you know I have my phone out looking stuff up on Discogs all the time to make sure I don’t already have something or check the grading of the albums I’m looking at that I may already have.

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“If you smile at me, I will understand ’cause that is something everybody everywhere does in the same language. I can see by your coat, my friend, you’re from the other side. There’s just one thing I got to know. Can you tell me please, who won?” – “Wooden Ships” (Crosby/Kantner/Stills)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 1/9/21

10 Sunday Jan 2021

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Salutations™!!

It was good for The BCPF and I to get back to Underdog Records after their short (but well-deserved) hiatus. We bought some cool things and got to listen to a few whilst watching the NFL Wild Card Saturday games (with TV on mute, of course). Here’s the haul:

The first few are the $1 albums that I forgot to put in last time:

©Happy Happy Birthday To Me Records

Eric Martin Band – Sucker For A Pretty Face — Eric Martin was the lead singer for Mr. Big during their heyday (which is subjective, I guess). I like his voice. I didn’t know anything he did prior (or after) Mr. Big. I found it interesting that Troy Luccketta played on this album and was part of the band. He went on to be drummer for Tesla. John Nymann, the co-founder of this band was friends with Y&T and eventually joined them. That’s all I know. VG(+).

The Paris Theatre Orchestra – Honeymoon In Paris — Parisian music. What can I say? The BCPF and I both dig that stuff. It was there, it was $1. VG(+).

Nat King Cole – The Unforgettable Nat King Cole Sings The Great Songs! — Nat King Cole. $1. The BCPF. ‘Nuff said… VG.

Here’s this week’s haul:

k.d. lang – Invincible Summer — I contend that k.d. lang has one of the best voices in music. Such soul and her timbre is that of silk. I love it. I love hearing her sing. This was the 20th anniversary edition, which is weird when you know that it came out in 2000. Man, time flies… New.

The Love Language – The Love Language — A Merge Records artist. The BCPF goes nuts for anything Merge Records. It’s her love language, I think. Good listen! New.

Crayon – Brick Factory — The BCPF loves to find things that she used to play on the radio when she was a student jock at WUAG (at UNCG). She played some weird and wild things. This was a fun listen. It’s a bit screechy and quite “indie” but hey, she audibly gasped when she saw it, so… NM.

Jacqueline Boyer – Chanteuse — More French music. Again, we love the heck out of this stuff! This is from 1962 and is an original pressing the best I can tell. VG+.

Various – Nostalgia Vol. 1 — The Mystics, Dion, Chiffons, The Royal Guardsmen, The Music Explosion, The Jarmels, Gerry & The Pacemakers, Gary (U.S.) Bonds. VG+.

Various – Collectors’ Items 1922-1930 — As the title says, songs (and I believe recordings) from 1922-1930. VG.

Various – Windham Hill Records Sampler ’82 — We have a few George Winston albums and those were on Windham Hill Records. William Ackerman, Winston, Michael Hedges, Ira Stein & Russel Walder, Shadowfax, Liz Story, Darol Anger & Barbara Higbie, Scott Cossu, Alex de Grassi. All that. EX.

Underdog Records is resuming the pre-holiday “C-19” hours of Thursday-Saturday from 11a-7p. Jonathan is doing deliveries M-W and some store pickups and stuff like that. You can check out and purchase brand new items 24/7 on the Underdog website. Keep watching as Jonathan and I have news coming. I use Discogs to keep track of my collection and you should, too!

Until tomorrow, keep spininn’…
Scorp out!

—
“Are you breathing what I’m breathing? Are your wishes the same as mine? Are you needing what I’m needing? I’m waiting for a sign. My hands tremble. My heart aches. Is it you calling? Is it you calling?” – “The Consequences of Falling” (Steinberg/Nowels/D’ubaldo)

Spinning Monday or: The Haul 12/26/20

28 Monday Dec 2020

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Salutations™!!

I moved this to Monday because yesterday was Ma Mère’s birthday and I wanted to honor her. So, here we are today. The BCPF and I went to Underdog Records and ate at Willows for the first time in 287 days on Saturday. We came home and listened to records whilst watching football. Here’s the haul:

©Eleven Seven Music

The Hu – The Gereg — If you haven’t heard (or heard of) The Hu (pronounced just like the British Invasion band), you’re truly missing out. It’s Mongolian folk metal. Mongolian throat singing, using Morin khuur (horsehead fiddle), Tovshuur (a two- or three-stringed lute) and hard rock. All that in one place. It’s really interesting and a great listen. This is the 2×LP deluxe edition that has all the bonus tracks with The Hu doing tunes with Lzzy Hale, Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach and From Ashes to New. It’s in cream colored vinyl. New.

Kraftwerk – The Man•Machine — Reissue, Remastered, Special Edition, Stereo, Red Translucent, 180g. “SPEZIAL EDITION FARBIGES VINYL” says the hype sticker. Reissue of the 1978 album from one of the most famous electronic bands ever. I have never heard it, so I’m excited. New.

Donovan – Mellow Yellow — Contains the title track and a lot of Donovan goodness. He was definitely the influence on Belle and Sebastian. They are both from Glasgow, after all. Mono. VG+.

The Rascals – Search And Nearness — From 1971. VG+.

Patachou – Paris C’est Une Blonde — Parisian fare and we love that. VG+.

There are actually several $1 records that we bought but I’m out of practice with those and after I cleaned them… forgot to put them in Discogs. I’ll do that later.

Underdog is open odd hours this week. He’s open Monday-Wednesday (he’s usually closed during those times) 11a-7p and is closed from Thursday, 12/31 until Wednesday, 1/6, reopening on 1/7. No porch deliveries until 1/11. Did you get gift certs or gift cards? Go buy some records! Jonathan is taking a well-deserved Staycation. Jonathan and I will have news after the first of the year! I use Discogs to track my collection.

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“I’m-a just mad about Saffron. She’s just mad about me. They call me mellow yellow (quite rightly).” – “Mellow Yellow” (Donovan)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 12/19/20

20 Sunday Dec 2020

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I got up early, ate breakfast outside in the cold at Young Cardinal, went record shopping at our favorite “candy” store, Underdog Records, and listened to good music yesterday. A laid-back and relaxing day. Here’s the haul.

@Mercury

Eels – Daisies Of The Galaxy — The BCPF had Jonathan order this for her. She used to work at Old Salem and when she was preparing the store she worked in for opening, she would play this album to get her in the mood. It takes her back. I can dig it. Eels are a good “band.” It was a fun listen. New.

Def Leppard – High ‘N’ Dry — Def Leppard’s second album, its biggest hit was “Bringin’ on the Heartbreak.” I am not a fan of most of Def Leppard’s early stuff. This album and On Through the Night just don’t do it for me, but I thought it important to own it. It was the last with Pete Willis on guitar before Phil Collen came into the band. New.

The War On Drugs – Future Weather — A six-song EP from one the BCPF’s newest favorite bands. They are a good band, too. New.

Various – Live From High Fidelity: The Best Of The Podcast Performances — Limited Edition, Translucent Green. Limited edition pressing of 1,000 for Record Store Day, 2014. We got it still sealed which means it’s still new even though it was previously owned. The performances were from many indie singers including Grant-Lee Phillips (who was the Troubadour on Gilmore Girls) and Sam Phillips (ex-wife of T-Bone Burnett) who was the “lala” song lady, also from Gilmore Girls. The two Phillips were not related at all.

Donna Summer – She Works Hard For The Money — I’m not sure I have the right version listed here because this is a “club” pressing. CRC which means “Columbia Record Club.” But, I do have it. VG+.

Manos Hadjidakis – Never On Sunday (Original Sound Track Music) — Mono. Original sound track from Jules Dassin’s motion picture “Never On Sunday” staring Melina Mercouri. On the back cover there is a resume of the movie and a profile of Manos Hadjidakis. I love movie soundtracks and even though I’ve not heard of this film, why not? It was like $3 and while it’s from 1960, it’s still sealed. The cover shows wear but I’m sure the vinyl is in NM condition.

That’s the haul. Short but sweet. Don’t forget to get yourself or a loved one (or tell your loved ones you want one) an Underdog Records Gift “Certificate.” They’re done on old 45RPM records. It’s cool. It helps Jonathan. It makes a great gift. Do it! Shop for new vinyl day or night, 24/7 by visiting the Underdog Records website. Use Discogs to keep track of your collections, no matter the format.

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“Onetta there in the corner stands and wonders where she is. And it’s strange to her, some people seem to have everything. Nine A.M. on the hour hand and she’s waiting for the bell. And she’s looking real pretty just wait for her clientele.” – “She Works Hard For the Money” (Omartian/Summer)

Spinning Sunday or: The Haul 12/12/20

13 Sunday Dec 2020

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Salutations™!!

The BCPF and I got to Underdog Records late. I emceed the Pride Winston-Salem Holiday Drag Brunch, then we ate and then went to Coffee Park to get a print of the new Holiday Roast. Then we went to Underdog Records and got a decent haul. Let me tell you about it…

©Matador

Belle And Sebastian – What To Look For In Summer — You know that The BCPF and I love us some Belle and Sebastian and this was a brand new (released Friday) 2×LP live album. It was pretty awesome for fans of B&S. All songs were recorded on tour in 2019, the majority from US cities, with one in Montreal, one in Pamplona and five songs on the Mediterranean sea for “Boaty Weekender” which was like a cruise for them. New.

Various – O Brother, Where Art Thou? — The BCPF and I both love this film. We love the soundtrack. It was there in EX/NM condition so we grabbed it. Yay, us!

Billy Joel – Souvenir — Promotional-only release by Columbia Records in 1977 to promote Billy’s pre-The Stranger songs. Side 1: These selections were recorded live December 5th and 6th, 1976 at Palmer Auditorium, University of Connecticut at New London during the live video taping of “Billy Joel Tonight.” Side 2: several cuts from Billy’s albums. Pressed on Columbia’s white promo labels, which state “Demonstration – Not For Sale” at the bottom, as well as on the front jacket. These were distributed mainly to radio stations, clubs, and fan clubs in the US and were were not sold in stores. This album is known to have been heavily counterfeited, too. I am not sure, without further inspection, which I have. EX/NM.

Various – New Wave Hits — Rhino’s Back To The 80s release. 140 gram pink swirl vinyl. A collection of early 80s new wave hits, just as it says. EX/NM. This is still sealed but we will remedy that soon.

Various – History Of British Rock — 2×LP collection of British heavy hitters (at least in the mainstream genre) like Kinks, Rod Stewart, Manfred Mann, Bee Gees, etc. The collection is from 1974. Gatefold cover. Auto-coupled for sequential playing (Sides 1 & 4 / Sides 2 & 3). NM/EX.

Various – ¡Something Festive! — Holiday classics from the likes of Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, Liza, Burt Bacharach, Claudine Longet and more. VG+.

We got to listen to the Belle and Sebastian and the one of the comps from last week yesterday. We didn’t get a proper listening day but we will. Underdog Records has gotten a good bit of freshly-used vinyl and that was nice to see. He’s been so busy with the RSD stuff he hadn’t had time. Jonathan is doing deliveries M-W and the store is open Thursday-Saturday. You can buy new vinyl, day or night, 24/7 from the Underdog Records website. I used Discogs to track my collection, and you should, too!

Until tomorrow, keep spinnin’…
Scorp out!

—
“Bobby’s driving through the city tonight, through the lights in a hot new rent-a-car. He joins the lovers in his heavy machine. It’s a scene down on Sunset Boulevard. Say goodbye to Hollywood. Say goodbye, my baby.” – “Say Goodbye to Hollywood” (Joel)