Ultravox - Paradise Theatre, Boston: March 3rd 1979

Number three of five, and the second night at the Paradise Theatre in Boston.

Although this one is not the same quality as the previous radio recording it's well worth having, as it contains the first airing and recording of the song "Radio Beach" (which I don't think is available on any studio recording - anyone?). This version is a little ramshackle but if you do like it, there's a better version coming in the next post.

So leave a comment and tell ASFM what you think of Radio Beach, and the rest of this gig.

Band: Ultravox
Year: 1979
Album: Live at the Paradise Theatre, Boston, Massachusetts, March 3rd 1979
Tracks:
1. The Man Who Dies Everyday
2. Slipaway
3. Slow Motion
4. Hiroshima Mon Amour
5. Touch And Go
6. Artificial Life
7. Just For A Moment
8. He's A Liquid
9. Quiet Men
10. Radio Beach
11. I Can't Stay Long
12. Someone Else's Clothes
13. Blue Light
14. RockWrock
15. My Sex

Ripped from glorious hissing tape (see comments for link)

If you like this, and you haven't got their first three albums, then you're like this compilation of tracks from them, and at only £2.48, how can you go wrong?

The Island Years

Shrink - Valid Or Void Repost

This is a repost due to Dave who has kindly sent his memories and some excellent photographs of Shrink in concert.

Below are some of Daves words and also now added his pics (this link has higher resolution copies):

The pics of Shrink are from a gig in London about 1979. I remember the gig very well because Ian Dury was in the audience! The place was full of punks. When Shrink came on stage the punks got on the floor and began to bow down (has anyone seen anything like that!). It's hard to believe that this guy didn't make it big! I suppose this guy was way ahead of his time! I mean Prodigy nicked a lot of Shrink's stuff (sorry Prodigy fans - but you would have loved Shrink). I also remember Peter Gabriel nicking Shrink's lyrics! Listen to the end of Sledge Hammer (lyrics nicked from You Chauffeur Me)


ORIGINAL POST
Strange one this, I don't know much about Shrink and as far as I am aware this was his only single (now someones gonna prove me wrong again, but it's all about the learning, right). The a-side 'Valid or Void' is a bit of an oddity but a real little New Wave gem. Then you play the b-side and think "what the hell is this" (it doesn't work for me but I included it for completeness) So try it for yourself and leave a comment to tell me what you think.

Anyone know anything else about Shrink?

A nice little etching on this one "Shrink or Swim".

Band: Shrink
Label: A&M
Year: 1979
Tracks:
1. Valid Or Void
2. You Chauffeur Me

Ripped from glorious (very) scratched vinyl
http://sharebee.com/84d5fec3

Ultravox - Paradise Theatre, Boston: March 2nd 1979

Number two (of 5) and this one is from an FM radio show (London Wavelength Concert Hour), not sure why it's called London as its a US show (anyone know more?) and is therefore very good quality. So you're gonna like this one.

I think, I've said it all about Ultravox and John Foxx (I have some good Foxx live gigs coming soon to), so just get that link and listen to their brilliance.

I won't even ask for you to leave a comment, but it would be nice if you did.

Band: Ultravox
Year: 1979
Album: Live at the Paradise Theatre, Boston, Massachusetts, March 2nd 1979
Tracks:
1. Intro
2. Slow Motion
3. Hiroshima Mon Amour
4. Touch And Go
5. Artificial Life
6. Just For A Moment
7. He's A Liquid
8. Quiet Men
9. Blue Light
10. RockWrok
11. My Sex
12. Outro

Ripped from glorious (no hiss) FM radio (see comments for link)

If you like this, and you haven't got this, then go and buy their classic album Ha! Ha! Ha! here for only £3.49 - total bargain, get it:

Ha-Ha-Ha

Ultravox - Philadelphia Hot Club 23/02/1979

This is the first of five quality bootlegs from the final tour of a John Foxx led Ultravox. This one comes from John Headland (and for you audiophiles you can find his flac rips over at "Dime" - I would rip in flac if I could play them on my mobile devices, but until then ASFM's gonna carry on with mp3).

This final tour was apparently self funded and just after Island records dropped them post the release of their classic "Systems Of Romance" album (can anyone confirm this?). What were Island records thinking? they gave them three classic albums, more than many others have ever achieved and then they dumped them.

You also get a first taste of John Foxx's solo material. "He's a liquid" was never officially recorded by Ultravox and was eventually released on John Foxx's debut solo album "Metamatic".

The two final two tracks have been added to John's rips and came from Alyn over at punkrockposters.com, the intro and outro for each track is a little clipped, but all the music is still there, and considering one of the tracks is "Young Savage", you can't complain.

Did you ge to see John Foxx with Ultravox? If so what did you think? Leave a comment and don't forget to thank John for sharing this great rip.

Band: Ultravox
Album: Live at Philadelphia Hot Club 23/02/79
Year: 1979
Tracks:
1. The Man Who Dies Every Day
2. Slipaway
3. Slow Motion
4. Hiroshima Mon Amour
5. Artificial Life
6. Just For A Moment
7. He's A Liquid
8. Quiet Man
9. I Can't Stay Long
10. Someone Else's Clothes
11. Blue Light
12. My Sex
13. Young Savage
14. The Wild, The Beautiful, and the Damned

Ripped from glorious hissing tape (see comment from link)

If you like this, then surely you already own this, but if not, only £4.98 - bargin:

Systems Of Romance
You can also hear He's A Liquid on Foxx's great debut here, also £4.98:

Metamatic

The Mekons - John Peel Session #1 11/07/1978

The first John Peel session for "The Mekons" included six perfect examples of the early Mekons sounds. Although I am a big Mekons fan and have most of their material, this was my favourite period. The session includes another version of their brilliant and timeless single "Where Were You?" which for me is also the standout track of the session, even though all of the other tracks are excellent.

The Mekons catalogue is an amazing variation of genres from classic punk, to dance to alt country and a few that it would be difficult to classify. So what's your favourite Mekons period? I'm still with their material released on Fast Records but I have to say I also love Oooh! (Out of their Heads) with the classic tracks "Dancing In My Head" and "Thee Olde Trip To Jerusalem" . Leave a comment and let ASFM know what you think?

Band: The Mekons
Year: 1978
Label: John Peel Sessions
Tracks:
1. Garden Fence of Sound
2. Where Were You?
3. Letters In The Post
4. Lonely and Wet
5. Dance and Drink The Mekons
6. Dan Dare - Out Of Space (It's A Really Nice Place)

Ripped from glorious FM, onto glorious hissing tape and then to less gorious mp3 (see comments for link)

If you like this then try out some more Mekons stuff, you cab still buy most of their albums, but be warned of the different sounds. For a good sample the you can't go wrong with this one:

Heaven and Hell: The Very Best of the Mekons

and as mentioned above one of my personal favourites:

Oooh! (Out of Our Heads)

and their acclaimed alt country album:

Fear and Whiskey

Steel Pulse - Nyah Love 7"

The second single from Steel Pulse was released on Anchor records in 1977, and I'm sure if this had been released post their debut album "Handsworth Revolution" it would of been a hit. This is the single that got me into Steel Pulse, and if you haven't heard it before you're understand why. I'm not sure why they never tried to reissue it, when they did become more popular (does anyone know?). Their following releases were all on Island records, so maybe it was down to ownership.

The b-side is a traditional dub version of the a-side, even though I'm not a big dub fan, this one also works for me.

So give it a try and see whether you agree this should of been a hit.

Band: Steel Pulse
Label: Anchor
Year: 1977
Tracks:
1. Nyah Love
2. Luv Nyah

Ripped from very scratched vinyl (see comment for links)

If you like this then your lucky as you can still buy both sides in a pristine rip from Amazon mp3 download here (although it does sound a little different - is it a re-recording?).

And if you haven't bought their classic debut album, you can still buy it here for £6:28:

Handsworth Revolution

Steve Treatment & The NoMen - The Christmas Annual 2009

Well it's nearly Christmas so as it's a time of giving, I thought I would give you this brilliant link. Happy Christmas and New Year from ASFM. Enjoy.

This freebie comes from Topplers Records an independent Micro DIY label from the West of Scotland.

If you haven't heard of Topplers before then your in for a real treat, being the stable of Jowe Head, Phones Sportsman, Dan Melchior, The Decider, The Cult Figures and not forgetting Steve Treatment and the (Brilliant) NoMen (check them out on the menu and listen to some of their excellent covers - often an improvement on the originals). If you like the Swell Maps and Television Personalities then your love the stuff for sale at Topplers.

Topplers have a tradition of releasing a free CD but as you will see due to the credit crunch, its download only, which is fine by me. The download offers a couple of old favourites, and one of my personal favourite Xmas songs "The NoMen Christmas Party" (if someone wanted to protest at X-Factor, then they should of picked this one instead of the crap "Rage Against The Machine") Also some nice cheery titles for you to sing along with the family, like "Top Yourself baby" with the great lyrics "Why don't you top yourself baby and do us all a favour".

So what are you waiting for, get over there now and download your copy from the link here . Try it out and then buy some of the excellent priced gems on their site. See my recommendations at the bottom of this post.

Also check out the link to Jowe Head and also a Dan Melchior live gig here (see bottom of blog)

Band: Steve Treatment and the NoMen
Label: Topplers
Year: 2009
Tracks:
1. I Don't Want My Little Baby Back
2. The Trains Came And Took It All Away
3. Top Yourself Baby
4. Christmas October
5. I Don't Need to Travel
6. The Nomen Christmas Dinner
7. Boom Bang a Bang
8. Bangin' My Bones
9. Oh Plastic Boy
10. A Letter To The World
11. Take A Fix For Christmas
12. Dead Body (Bonus Track - spoiling the Christmas mood)

Ripped by Topplers with some glorious recording gear onto mp3

If you like this then check out some of these offerings and buy them now, your have to select the band from the drop down list. Two gems from Phones Sportsman PSB at £4.99 and Arson and the Juggernauts at £2.99, what have you got to lose, while your their grab his excellent CD single as well.

Jowe Heads from a Parallel Universe

A couple of Jowe Head bands, first up Olives Hairy Custard

and Angel Racing Food

This list is going to get too long, so also check out Steve Treatment and then finally listen to all the excellent NoMen stuff.

Those Naughty Lumps - Iggy Pop's Jacket Repost

This little gem is a repost as I received the following email from Kevin (Drummer of Those Naughty Lumps):

Hi

Saw yr blog

Thought you might like to check out the band Facebook http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=181567322248&ref=mf . We’re reforming. Tell the world.

Cheers Kevin (drums)

So what are you waiting for, check them out, tell the world, and go and see them.

Original Post:

Another obscure treat for you. I can't remember where I bought this one from, but it was played a lot.

Those Naughty Lumps were from Liverpool and I think this is the one and only single that they released.

If anyone does have anything else, I would be interested.

Both sides are excellent, see what you think:

This also come in a gatefold sleeve which is great in real life, but a pain to scan (the things I do for you)


Band: Those Naughty Lumps
Year: 1978
Label: Zoo
Tracks:
1. Iggy Pop's Jacket
2. Pure And Innocent




Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl:
http://www.divshare.com/download/3194100-ac6
or
http://sharebee.com/8362dc08

Wild Willy Barrett - We've Gotta Get Out Of This Place 7"

Hi everyone, back again, I've been too busy the last month and had zero opportunity to do anything on ASFM,but it's nearly the Xmas holidays so normal service should be resumed.

Back to good old 7" vinyl singles, and this one's a decent cover of the Animal's classic "We've Gotta Get Out Of This Place" from "Wild Willy Barrett" who is better known for his partnership with "John Otway". The b-side is a nice bit of blues guitar, unsurprisingly named "Barrettt's Blues". Barrett and Otway have produced a fair back catalogue of music which is unknown to most people, so hopefully this post will encourage you to try the excellent Anthology you can find at the link below. The b-sides not on it, so for the completest, no need to worry.

Artist: Wild Willy Barrett
Year: 1981
Label: Black Eye Records
Tracks:
1. We've Gotta Get Out Of This Place
2. Barrett's Blues

Ripped from glorious (very) scratched vinyl (see comment for link)

As mentioned above if you like this then you can buy the excellent Anthology of Barrett (and some Otway) stuff covering 30 years, plus lots more on the same site here:

Wild Willy Barret Anthology

Ultravox! - Live At The Marquee 1979

This one was donated by Alyn from who runs punkrockposters.net. where as the name of the web site suggests you can buy classic and genuine punk posters.

Regualar ASFM visitors will know that I'm a big Ultravox! fan (John Foxx line-up only) so I am always pleased to find another live bootleg I didn't have and even better when you actually went to the gig as well.

This gig coincided with the release of 'Systems of Romance' and has a mixture of classics but as one would expect predominately includes tracks from their last album.

So leave a comment and thank Alyn for sharing this one.

Band: Ultravox!
Year: 1979
Album: Live At The Marquee 1979
Tracks:
1. The Man Who Dies Every Day
2. Slow Motion
3. Slipaway
4. Hiroshima Mon Amour
5. Maximum Acceleration
6. Quiet Men
7. Artificial Life
8. Just For A Moment
9. I Can't Stay Long
10. Young Savage
11. My Sex
12. Some Of Them

Ripped from some glorious hissing tape somewhere (see comment for link)

If you like this, then surely you must already have these, but if not, your in for a treat and you can buy their three classic albums here (my personal favourite Ha! Ha! Ha!):

Ultravox!

Ha-Ha-Ha

Systems Of Romance

Carter USM - Norwich Sound City 1992

I'm not sure how popular Carter USM (originally Unstoppable Sex Machine but shortened later on) were globally (be interesting to hear from some of our overseas ASFM visitors), but for me they were definitely one of those classic UK eccentrics, and I can't describe them any better than this entry from Wikipedia:

a distinctive style of power pop, fusing samples, sequenced basses and drum machines with rock 'n' roll guitars and off-beat wordplay-loaded lyrics

As you can hear on the rip, their fans would continually chant "You Fat Bastard" which originated from one time manager Jon 'Fat' Breasts topless on stage band introductions.

A good selection of their singles and favourites here, unfortunately Sheriff Fatman is clipped at the end. It also includes their single "After The Watershed" (1991) which led to their first appearance on 'Top Of The Pops and then more famously a legal battle with the Rolling Stones publisher over the the use of the lyrics "Goodbye Rudy Tuesday" in the chorus. I'm not sure whether the legal battle was resolved by 1992, but introduce the song with "this ones for the bah bah bab bab the Rolling Stones, but we didn't want to swear".

Band: Carter USM

Album: Radio 1 Norwich Sound City 1992

Year: 1992

Tracks:

1. Intro Robin Hood

2. The Only Living Boy In New Cross
3. Down The Tracks
4. Rubbish
5. Do Re Me, So Far So Good
6. Anytime, Anyplace, Anywhere
7. A Prince In A Paupers Grave
8. While You Were Out
9. After The Watershed
10. Sheriff Fatman

Ripped from glorious FM radio onto even more glorious hissing tape (see comments for link)

If you like this then go and buy some of their music here:

30 Something

You Fat Bastard

Starry Eyed and Bollock Naked: B-Sides

Brian James - Why? Why? Why? 7"

Like many bloggers I sometimes start to think, I can't be arsed with this anymore, and maybe I should kill the blog of, and then out of the blue, you get an email from someone saying, "I thought you might like these...." and attached is Brian James second single (a and b side) Why? Why? Why? and then you think, this is why I blog. The sharing, and helping people (including myself) to find new music still gives me a buzz.

So give a big thanks in the comments to Styreneboy, who shared this hard to find single (well after much searching I couldn't find it anywhere)

Released on green and black vinyl in 1982 on Illegal Records. You get two tracks, with the a-side Why? Why? Why? clearly being the stand out track. It's just what you expect from Brian James, great guitar riffs and a great catchy tune (this one will stick in your head for a while). The b-side "Where Did I Find A Girl Like You" is OK, but James has done much better.

Artist: Brian James
Label: Illegal Records
Year: 1982
Tracks:
1. Why? Why? Why?
2. Where Did I Find A Girl Like You

Ripped from Styreneboy's glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for links)

If you like this then you can still buy some of Brian James albums here, and they are worth getting:

The Brian James Gang
and you can get this one in the traders area for an amazing £1.23 (I got my copy last week) two CD's, one of the album and the second is the "Dripping Lips" album (of course featuring Brian James) here:

Brian James

King - John Peel Sessions 11/07/78

This was requested by Roberto in the comments of the Tanz Der Youth John Peel Sessions, and as Kes kindly pointed out, you can find this plus some more good stuff at Rare Punk To Share blog here (First time I've seen this blog and it looks good).

Now I'm also posting this as another ASFM visitor Pepe from Ireland, who also provided the excellent Vinchucas demos (if you haven't heard these then try them out here) sent these to me sometime ago and I've been planning on posting them for ages. I don't know which rip is the better (or even if they are the same) but I'll leave it up to you to get them from wherever you want.

So for those of you who don't know, King was the band briefly (2 Months - from June 78 to August 78) formed by Captain Sensible between the period the Damned split up and then reformed. In this period the only recording they made were these John Peel sessions. As usual four tracks, and in my opinion two gems and two average tracks. Anti Pope (later resurrected by the Damned) and Jet Boy Jet Girl (an Elton Motello original) are classics and you will love them.

Band: King
Year: 1978
Album: John Peel Sessions
Tracks:
1. Anti Pope
2. Jet Boy Jet Girl
3. My Baby Don't Care
4. Baby Sign Here With Me

Ripped of some FM radio onto glorious hissing tape (see comment for link).

If you like this, why not try some classic Captain Sensible or even better the Damned, my choices:

Damned Damned Damned

Machine Gun Etiquette [25th Anniversary Edition]

Music For Pleasure

The Black Album

Women And Captains First

Readymades - Terry Is A Space Cadet 7"

Would you believe it! another gem from Bruce Rhodes, and I know he's been searching for this one for sometime now. Now he's finally got a copy you can see why.

The "Readymades" from San Fransisco, and we think this is their one and only single (Bruce has found reference to another 12" single, but he's not sure it's the same band, maybe some of our more learned visitors will know), which considering how brilliant it's a shames they didn't release anything else. They do have a new album out now, see bottom of post for more info.

Released in 1977 on the Automatic label it contains three tracks, first up is the a-side "Terry Is A Space Cadet", and using Bruce's own words (which I have to agree with) "I love its slightly fragile Velvet Underground feel". The b-side has two tracks, and there both excellent, your going to love the quirky "Supergirl" and the ridcuously catchy "Electric Toys".

So if anyone knows anymore about the Readymades then leave a commennt, and don't forgot to leave thanks to Bruce for sharing this one.

Band: Readymades
Year: 1977
Label: Automatic
Tracks:
1. Terry Is A Space Cadet
2. Supergirl
3. Electric Toys

Ripped from Bruce's glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for link)

If you like this then they do have a new album out, which you can find in the right hand sidebar here. I did try to take a look and see what's on this album but couldn't get anymore info. The link is worth following for some other intresting old Punk and new wave albums on a new label called Rave-Up Records.

You can also hear a few more Readymades gems here at their myspace site.

Tanz Der Youth - John Peel Session 02/08/1978

I've had a number of requests for this excellent John Peel session. I can't remember who posted this orignally, and if they remind me, then I will happily give them the due credit. The cover has the wrong date, but hey I'm sure we can live with that.

As you all know Tanz Der Youth were formed by Brian James following his departure from the Damned. Four excellent tracks including versions of the a and b side of his debut single "I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry" and "Delay" respectively which you can still get here.

Band: Tanz Der Youth
Year: 1978
Album: John Peel Sessions 02/08/78
Tracks:
1. Mistaken
2. I'm Sorry, I'm Sorry
3. Why I Die
4. Delay

Ripped from someones glorious FM hissing radio (see comment for link)

If you like this then there is still some excellent Brian James material available:

The Brian James Gang

New Rose 2006 Ep

Frank Black - Hate Me: Wetlands New York City 13th June 1994

As you may have guessed in the earlier Pixies post, I am a massive fan of anything "Frank Black". Although I believe Frank was at his best with the Pixies, he has turned out an outstanding body of music, all with there own distinctive feel and style, everything from lullabies, to folk, to country and western to that classic rockin style that only he can create.

This quality live bootleg takes tracks from his first three albums "Frank Black", "Teenager Of The Year", "The Cult of Ray" and his self released Oddballs album, plus two from the excellent John Peel session with Teenage Fanclub. As usual not one bad track, if you don't immediately like this, then give it a few plays and I guarantee you will be going out buying his back catalogue.

I still remember buying his debut and same titled album "Frank Black" thinking it was going to be a continuation of the Pixies sound. Apart from the single "Los Angles" I was initially disappointed and put it on the shelf. A couple of weeks later I had nothing to play so I put it on and I couldn't believe it, a smile came to my face as I heard riffs and tunes I had missed the first time round. How many times has that happened to you? What albums have you initially purchased and been disappointed with, only for it to end up on your all time best play list? Leave a comment and let us know.

Just in case some people get confused the cover of this CD got some of the titles wrong, I have corrected them in this post and on the rip.

Artist: Frank Black
Album: Hate Me: Wetlands New York City
Year: June 13th 1994
Tracks:
1. Sir Rockaby
2. Two Spaces
3. Hate Me
4. (I Want To Live In An) Abstract Plain
5. At The End Of The World
6. Calistan
7. Headache
8. Freedom Rock
9. Space Is Gonna Do Me Good
10. Big Red
11. Suparabounf
12. Oddball
13. Pure Denizen Of the Citizen Band
14. White Noise Maker
15. Speedy Marie
16. Men In Black
17. Adda Lee
18. Parry the Wind High, Low
19. Ten Percenter
20. The Man Who Was Too Loud
21. Handy Man
22. Los Angles
23. Ole Mullholland
24. Czar

Ripped from not so glorious CD (see comment for links).

If you like then try out these albums where all of these tracks were taken from:

The first and brilliant debut album:

Frank Black
The excellent second album:

Teenager of the Year
The classic third:

The Cult of Ray

His fifth album, not one of his best, but I love it and as some of the tracks are on this bootleg it had to be included. "Oddballs" (no picture or linlk) now OOP but you can still get it at eMusic

and the not to be missed John Peel Session with Teeage Fanclub:

The John Peel Session

There's lots more but these are good ones to get started with.

Johnny Rubbish - Living In NW3 4JR (Anarchy In The UK)

Johnny Rubbish (real name John Gatward) a Stranglers fan who got to know Hugh Cornwall and later became his manager, released his one and only single, a parody of the Sex Pistols "Anarchy in the UK". Apart form the lyrics which replace UK with NW3 4JR (a posh post code from London, Hampstead) its a pretty faithful copy of the Pistols orginal.

The lyrics are on the back cover, so as usual I have included a high resolution copy for you to sing along. The b-side is a "News At 10" parody (and not a very funny one, although one part made me smile, see if it does for you and leave a comment) which lasts over 5 minutes and thats nearly 5 minutes too long, but I know you completeists would settle for nothing less.

A couple of etchings, with the classic "A Porky Prime Cut" and "That's News To Me" on the b-side.

All in all a bit of harmless fun, and nothing more. A bit more info on this here you will have to scroll down the page to find the right bit.

Band: Johnny Rubbish
Label: United Artists
Year: 1978
Tracks:
1. Living In NW3 4JR (Anarchy In The UK)
2. The Other Side

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for links)

Pixies - Doolittle Demos Remastered

On Friday night I saw the Pixies on their 20th anniversary of their classic Doolittle album at the Brixton Academy. For me the Pixies are still one of the greatest bands of all time. Their music (especially their first three albums) is clearly genre breaking, and to date there's still nothing quite like it. With Frank Blacks manic screaming, Kim Deals harmonies and thumping bass lines, Joey Santiagos incredible guitar riffs , and the power and precision of David Loverings drumming, they produce a unique and perfect sound.

Starting off with the b-sides of the singles released from Doolittle, and then the full album, they were all there, Debaser, Gouge Away, Monkeys, Gone to Heaven, Hey, Crackity Jones, and I could go on and list every track, as everything they have released is better than most bands have ever managed.

The other thing I really like about the Pixies is their all about their music. They don't try and look cool, they give the fans exactly what they want (unlike many other bands). You can see they enjoy themselves, and you can also see the care they take in their shows, the backdrops and videos all perfectly matched the mood of each song. Two encores as well. What more can you ask for?

I guess you can tell how much I love this band, and I recommend if you ever get a chance to go and see them, take it, I'll be there.

So a ridiculously impossible question, what is the best Pixies song ever?

Band: Pixies
Label: Bootleg
Year: 1989
Tracks:
1. Tame
2. Debaser
3. I Bleed
4. Wave Of Mutilaiton
5. Crackity Jones
6. Baileys Walk
7. Mr Grieves
8. Dead
9. Gouge Away
10. Manta Ray
11. Santo
12. No. 13 Baby
13. La La LOve You
14. There Goes My Gun
15. Silver
16. Monkeys Gone To Heaven

Ripped from a bootleg CD (see comment for links)

I am sure most of you must have their albums (if you haven't then then I'm jealous, thinking of the incredible experience you will have listening to this material) and as they are still available at bargain prices I have posted the Doolittle Demos Remastered, so if you like this definitely go and buy these:

Their first two albums for £4:98

Surfer Rosa & Come on Pilgrim

The classic Doolittle also £4:98

Doolittle

and well you gotta get their fourth album, what only £4:98?

Bossanova
and why not their final album, guess what? £4:98

Trompe le Monde

White Boy - Never Mind 7"

Well Bruce Rhodes has finally completed his "White Boy" collection and (yet again) has kindly shared their third single, so we can all get to hear the full range of all five singles (all available here thanks to Bruce).

What I like about White Boy is you never know what your going to get, their music ranges from absurd to great. This one is a more of a return to their rock sound from their first single but more heavy than anything else they have released. Bruce rates the a-side "Never Mind" and surprisingly so do I (I'm not normally so keen on the more heavy sound).

So now you have them all, what do you think? Which White Boy song do you like best? Leave a comment and don't forget to say thanks to Bruce for sharing this.

Band: White Boy
Label: Doodley Squat Records
Year: 1978
Tracks:
1. Never Mind
2. Heavens Of Hell

Ripped from Bruce's glorious scratched vinyl (see link for comments)

Ruts DC - Live 1981: Edingburgh Nite Club

Another classic from Philippe, this time a live bootleg from "Ruts DC", with 9 tracks coming from their debut album "Animal Down" some original "Ruts" songs, unfortunately a couple of them have been clipped in the recording but apart from that a pretty good recording.

I always had a soft spot for the Ruts and used to know Malcolm (well everyone who went to the Nashville did) and after the sad loss "Ruts DC" kept going and turned out some decent stuff.

Still struggling for time, so I'll leave it you you to check them out, and leave a comment to say what you think (and as usual leave a thanks to Phillipe for sharing this gem).

Philippe ripped these at 320, so it comes in two parts. Enjoy.

Band: Ruts DC
Year: 1981
Album: Live At Edinburgh Nite Club
Tracks:
1. Different View
2. Demolition Dancing
3. Dangerous Minds
4. It Was Cold
5. Love In Vain
6. Mirror Smashed
7. Formula Eyes
8. Despondency
9. Fools
10. West One (Clipped End)
11. Parasites (Clipped Begin)
12. Staring At The Rude Boys (Clipped End - a lot)
13. No Time To Kill (Clipped Begin)
14. S.U.S
15 Jah War
16. Different Now
17. Society

Ripped from Philippe's glorious hissing tape (see comment for links)

If you like Ruts DC, I'm afraid their debut album is no longer commercially available but you can find a copy at the always excellent Mondo De Muebles here, and you can get some more odds and sods over at the always great Nuzz Prowling Wolf here.

and while your checking them out, why don't you treat yourself to some classic "Ruts" for only£3.99 here:

The Crack/Grin and Bear It
and all their singles for only £4.98, bargin:

The Best of the Ruts by Ruts

The Touques - The Touques EP

I was recently contacted by "The Touques" (pronounced the Two-ks) and asked whether I would listen to their new EP.

Guess what? I did and I love it, its been playing non-stop since I got it.

The Touques are from Reno, Nevada, they've been around since 2005 and you can find more about them here and at their myspace site (where you can try these songs out, before downloading).

The first track "4" is the best of the pick and the one that has been buzzing around my head ever since I heard it. There's a blend of post-punk, surf and pop that delivers a dark sound surrounded with guitar riffs, excellent harmonies, hand clapping, well everything actually.

"Roy Stampler" follows with a catchy guitar riff, and then just as you start to tap your feet to it, it changes into a ripping post-punk sound, and it just keeps changing, you gotta love this.

Third up is "White Elephant" a stange instrumental, with an excellent surf riff throughout

Two more tracks "HRPM" and "Goodbye Monsieur" with that now familiar "Touques" sound, but enough of me rambling on, go on to their mysapce site, try them out and if you like them then you can download all five tracks here.

If you like the Touques you can also buy thier earlier material at the same link above.

So what do you think of the Touques?, leave a comment and let everyone know.

Psycotic Pineapple - I Wanna Wanna Wanna Wanna Wanna Wanna Wanna Get Rid Of You 7"

Apologies for so little activity, I have really been struggling to find any spare time, and also for holding back this little gem from Bruce Jones. So as I'm still busy I'll let Bruce's own words tell you all about this band:

"Right... this is the second and final 45 by a Californian band called, "Psycotic Pineapple". Released on the U.S. Richmond label in 1979, "I Wanna Get Rid Of You/Ahead Of My Time" has been described as a bit like the Dickies with a pinch of 60's garage which is a fair comparison.

I prefer the B-side myself and to me there's a definite 60's garage thing going on. BTW, the B-side is a non-LP track.

The band also recorded an album in 1980 which is really cool if you like the 60's kinda garage feel and they do a couple of obvious garage covers. Speaking of covers, the artwork for the bands releases are excellent as are their posters."

In my opinion I prefer "I Wanna Get Rid Of You" but I agree it's a great slice of garage sound and would comfortably sit on the classic "Nuggets" collection from the 60's even this was released in 1979. As is often the way, it was a spooky coincidence that the same day Bruce sent this to me, the excellent Twilight Zone also posted their one and only album here.

So what do you think? Leave a comment and as always a thanks to Bruce, whose got some more gems coming soon.

Band: Psycotic Pineapple
Label: Richmond
Year: 1979
Tracks:
1. I Wanna Get Rid Of You
2. Ahead Of My Time

Ripped from Bruce's glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for link)

999 - Lil Red Riding Hood 7"

This classic was originally released in the 60's by "Sam Sham and the Pharaohs" (you most probably know their biggest hit "Woolly Bully") and 999 have done a great job covering this with their 11th single. I usually prefer the original which is outstanding, but 999 have added that spaghetti western sound (you could also here this sound on their equally excellent 10th single "Obsessed" which you can still hear over at Punk Friction here).

"Lil Red Riding Hood" has also been covered by "Billy Childish" once as "Thee Headcoats" as a live track on "the Wurst is Yet To Come" and the better version with "Thee Might Caesars" on "Acropolis Now".

The cover had a stencil that i always wanted to use, but never got round to it, did anyone else use theirs?

I found a couple of badges as well the green one on the right was always my favourite and very rarely left my "Lewis" leather jacket.

So try them out and then leave a vote in the comments on which version you think is best.

Band: 999
Label: Albion
Year: 1981
Tracks:
1. Lil Red Riding Hood
2. Wait For Your Number To Be Called
3. I Ain't Gonna Tell Ya (Live At The Nashville)

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for links)

If you like this then you in luck as you can still buy their 5th album "Concrete which is one of my favourites and a return to form from their first two albums. All three tracks plus lots more on the CD reissue:

Concrete
You also must check out Sam Sham and the Pharaohs and at only £2.98 how can you not buy this gem, both Lil' Red Riding Hood and Woolly Bully plus lots more:

The Best Of
and if you haven't got the brilliant "Acropolis Now" reissue with Lil Red Riding Hood and more you can buy that here:

ACROPOLIS NOW

Captain Sensible - Happy Talk 7"

This post is from a request by Eugene. I never planned on posting this one as it was a big hit (Number 1# in the UK) so I assumed everyone would have it, and also as a big Damned fan, it was a long way from the sound I always favoured.

So when Eugene said the b-side was no longer available (after a little check you can get still buy all these tracks on the Captains reissued debut - links for purchase as usual at the bottom of this post), I thought I would dig it out and check it out, and as often is the way with singles the b-side is well worth a listen.

"Happy Talk" with backing vocals from "The Dolly Mixtures" (also on the front cover) was a cover of a famous "Rodgers and Hammerstein" musical "South Pacific" and was very commercial (not my cup of tea, but a s a completest, I still had to buy it). The b-side give you two tracks (well one really) the first "It" is a short (1:21) silly track which will make you smile the first time you hear it, but the second "I Can't Stand It (Demo)" returns to the sounds we would normally expect from "Captain Sensible". I love it, you can hear the Captain is having fun, and just in case you think it's my poor rip (it is a bit scratched) the end is not a mistake. So check it out, it's worth it just for the one track.

Artist: Captain Sensible
Label: A&M
Year: 1982
Tracks:
1. Happy Talk
2. It
3. I Can't Stand It (Demo)

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for links)

If you like this then your in luck as you can still buy all three tracks plus lots more on his debut album here:

Women And Captains First

20 July 2009

(4)

You can still buy a lot of the Captain Sensible stuff, a collection of his hits for only £2:99 here:

The Collection

05 May 2003

(3)

Can Anyone Help? - The Glasgow Music Scene From 1979 Onwards

I recently received the following email, and as I always like to help people out whenever I can, I'm hoping some of you in blog land will feel the same:

Hello Gary

I have enjoyed reading your blog. It was actually the post on the Venigmas record, Strangeglove, from last March that initially grabbed my attention.

I am researching Glasgow's music scene from 1979 until the present day (in an effort to gain a PhD) hence my interest in the Venigmas.

At the moment I am focusing on what Glasgow was like in 1979 and uploaded a survey to this
url:

http://www.surveygizmo.com/s/168491/glasgow-s-music-scene-in-1979

I would be really grateful if you could mention this on your blog. I have been impressed by the number of responses you receive - again, particularly with the Venigmas post. I would be grateful for any help you can provide to promote my survey. Thanks (in anticipation) Bob Anderson

So if anyone was around the Glasgow music scene in 1979, please have a go at the survey.

Slits / The Pop Group Split Single 7"

Split single with "The Slits" and "The Pop Group" from the excellent "Rough Trade" label. I bought this as a Slits fan, with no knowledge of The Pop Group. On first play I can remember being disappointed and filed it in my collection and forgot about it for a while. Then a couple of months later I pulled it out and put it on again and I don't know what happened but I loved "In The Beginning There Was Rhythm" with it's punk/funk/reggae dub sound. The other side from the Pop Group and "Where There's A Will" never grew on me, even though it had a similar sound (not surprising in that both bands shared drummer and manager). The Pop Group split up in 1981 and later on band members went on to form Pigbag and Rip Rig and Panic.

But a usual I'll leave it to you to comment on which side you prefer.

Band: The Slits/The Pop Group
Label: Rough Trade
Year: 1980
Tracks:
1. In The Beginning There Was Rhythm
2. Where There's A Will

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for link)

If you like this then your in luck you can still buy the Pop Groups debut album here:

Y [Remastered and Expanded]
and there's lots to choose from the Slits, in my opinion their debut is the best:

Cut
but if you like the sound of this post then try this:

In the Beginning (A Live Anthology)

A.D.1984 - 1984 / Mushroom Magic 7"

Now everyone knows about the first three brilliant singles from "A.D.1984" (you can still hear them here), and I've seen lots of discussion whether their final two singles listed in catalogues were ever actually released:

Time Through Everybody's Eyes / ? (Grand Prix GP-012, 1983) 1984 / Mushroom Music (Grand Prix GP-014, 1983)

Well thanks to Philippe and an excellent purchase of only 99p on ebay, we can confirm that their final single was released and now you can hear it.

I'll let Philippe's own words finish this post:

"I always though that these titles were just legends , I never found the records or just a further entry about them. But in May 2009 I was lucky and found the Mushroom Magic 7" accidentally after quite some time searching".

"It seems if it was never really released as my version is a "demonstration record only" As the record seems to be so rare I think I won't be doing anybody an idealistic or financial harm by uploading it".

"Does anyone have any further information about this band? or do you know anyone in the band? I would be very pleased if I got more information, photos, or whatever as I would like to reissue their records through a friends label and need the contact of the band. I think its a pity they don't get the attention they deserve".

"You can email me at clockwork.generation@googlemail.com"

"Now as I've got you attention I would also like to give a little plug for another band I like, they do some kind of progressive punk with organ and you can check them out on myspace here".


So please try to help Philippe and leave a comment. In my opinion this double a-side single is the weakest single (of the four we've heard), but it does grow on you, So we just need to find that final elusive fourth single "Time Through Everybody's Eyes", so anyone out there got it?

Ripped from Philippe's glorious scratched vinyl (see comments for link)

Band: A.D.1984
Label: Grand Prix
Year: 1983
Tracks:
1. 1984
2. Mushroom Magic

Murder The Distrubed - Genetic Disruption 7"

Another one from Bruce Rhodes and another one from the classic "Small Wonder" record label. If any of you bought the "Small Wonder: Volume 2 Punk Singles Collection" you will be familiar with "Murder The Disturbed" and track 2 "Walking Corpses". I always liked "Walking Corpses", with its plodding repetitive, nearly fairground style sound. The other two tracks are similar in the use of a repetitive riff throughout.

There doesn't appear to be much information about "Murder The Disturbed". The "Small Wonder" label was one of my favourites (and still is) with excellent bands such as The Wall, The Molesters, Punishment Of Luxury, Fatal Microbes and the excellent Carpettes all of whom I saw live, but I never remember hearing of "Murder The Distrubed". So if anyone knows anything then leave a comment and don't forget to thank Bruce.

Band: Murder The Disturbed
Label: Small Wonder
Year: 1979
Tracks:
1. D.N.A.
2. Walking Corpses
3. Ultimate System

Ripped from Bruce's glorious scratched vinyl (see comments for link)

If you like this then you can still get buy the excellent Small Wonder volume 1 here:

Small Wonder Punk Singles Collection Vol.1
unfortunately the equally excellent volume 2 is no longer generally available.

The Carpettes - Orginal Demo's 1980 EP

A new name for you to give your thanks to, for sharing this gem from the excellent "Carpettes". Philippe from Germany offers up this rare (only 50 released) four track vinyl EP which consists of 4 tracks from some demos in 1980.

The Carpettes managed to produce music from pure punk to powerpop and were clearly talented writers and musicians as these demos demonstrate. Three of the tracks are classic power pop and "False Foundations" is a new wave/reggae sound. My personal favourite of the four is track one "Friday Night, Saturday Morning".

For me the best "Caprpettes" material was their first two singles (although there's lot to like from their later stuff as well) from the he classic "Small Wonder" label and you can still here their perfect debut ep here.

I saw the Carpettes a couple of times and found this flyer for a gig at the Nashville and also a Carpettes badge (I bet there aren't too many of these around),
So try out the demos and leave a comment to thank Philippe (he's got a few more gems to share) and tell us what you think of them.

Band: The Carpettes
Year: 1980
Label: Snap Music
Tracks:
1. Friday Night, Saturday Morning
2. The Reason I'm Lonely
3. False Foundations
4. If Your Heart Stopped Now

Ripped from Philippe's glorious scratched vinyl (see comments for link)

If you like this then your in luck as you can still buy this excellent CD with their first two singles and the John Peel sessions here:

The Early Years: 1977-1978

and you never know they may still have a copy of this rare one here:
http://www.snapsmusic.com/carpettes-1.htm

SpizzEnergi Gig

No I'm afraid it's not more music for you to download, it's even better Spizzenergi are playing live.

After the Custard Channel post here I got an email from Spizz saying thanks and a few links to this gig. So I thought I would pass it on to all you Spizz fans out there. I would be going to this but it's on my wedding anniversary, and I don't thnk I can persuade the Mrs that this would be a perfect eveneing, I'll have to wait for the next one.

The link to the Spizz site is here, and the links to the tickets are here.

The Cramps - Live In Exeter 1980

Hi everyone back from holiday and thought I would start of with some classic "Cramps". Not sure where I got this one, it came from a cheap old tape that I clearly made (it's got my crap handwriting on it) and I have no memory of ever making it. I don't have a specific location and time for this bootleg, but from the dialogue between songs Lux starts an unfinished limerick "there was a young girl from Exeter" so I guess that's where I got the location from, and the year came from the statement just before the classic Goo Goo Muck "be on our new album Songs Your Mother Taught Me" which was released in 1980 (for those of you that spotted the mistake, check out Fred's comment first), which is a little strange as the track was originally released on their classic second album "Psychedelic Jungle" in 1981. So does anyone know anymore? If so leave a comment.

The quality is classic homemade bootleg, but is definitely listenable and some of the dialogue with Lux and Ivy and the audience is worth listening to, just to bring back the memories of how good this band were.

Band: The Cramps
Year: 1980
Label: It's a bootleg
Tracks:
1. Human Fly
2. Garbage Man
3. I Was A Teenage Werewolf
4. Sunglasses After Dark
5, Strychnine
6. Tear It Up
7. Drug Train
8. The Way I Walk
9. Teenage Caveman
10. Goo Goo Muck
11. Zombie Dance
12. The Natives Are Restless
13. Surfin Bed

Ripped from a glorious hissing tape (see comment for link)

If you like this and you haven't got these, there must be something wrong with you, Their second album is my personal favourite:

Psychedelic Jungle
their classic debut:

Songs the Lord Taught Us
and if you like just the singles you won't go far wrong with this:

Off the Bone

Hurray Hurray it's a Holi Holi Holiday

Apologies I tried to get a couple of posts ready, before I go on holiday but I ran out of time. I'm sure my fellow bloggers will keep you going for a while.

Got some good stuff coming but your have to wait for a couple of weeks.

See you when I get back.

Missing you already.

Abattior Dogs - Vox Tribute to the Films Of Quentin Tarantino - Various Artists

After recently watching the Tarantino/Rodriguez grind house homage double "Planet Terror" and "Death Proof", I was again taken by the excellent soundtrack (from Death Proof). Tarantino has a habit of picking songs that if you heard on their own it would be unlikely that you would like them, but coupled with a move scene they become unforgettable. The "cut of the ear" scene in "Reservoir Dogs" coupled with "Stuck in the middle with you" by "Stealer's Wheel" is a classic example.

It then made me remember a brilliant tape from the now defunct "Vox" magazine where they made a homage to Quentin Tarantino's films, including made up dialogue (most of the Tarantino soundtracks include some of the dialogue from film). I thought hard about sending this over to RYP's "Twilight Zone" blog, but then thought what the hell I'll post it here.

So here it is, and there's something for everyone here. The classic "Link Wray" instrumentals, which I'm sure you already own and if not I want to know why. The "RUN-A-WAYS" a 60's band who its hard not to believe weren't an influence on the "Cramps" and the "Meteors". A classic in the Cramps style from Dave Vanian (Formerly the Damned lead singer) in his breakaway group "The Phantom Chords", and some classic "Cramps" of course. You gotta check out the "Richard Berry" classic as well (and then try some more of his stuff) My personal favourite is "The Embers". So give it a try and leave a comment with your favourite.

Band: Various
Tracks:
1. Deuces Wild - Link Wray
2. The Promised Land - Johnny Allen
3. Big Break - Richard Berry
4. Hoogie Boogie - John Lee Hooker
5. Night Creature - The RUN-A-WAYS
6. Screaming Kid - The Phantom Chords
7. Flower Of My Heart - Sparkle Moore
8. I Walked All Night - The Embers
9. The Wild One - Link Wray
10. Everything Goes - The Cramps
11. Little Darlin - The Gladiolas
12. Can't Stop Lovin - Elmore James
13. Reconsider Me - Margaret Lewis
14. (Are You Ready) Do The Bus Stop
15. Sweet Dream - Tommy McLain

Ripped from glorious hissing tape (see comment for link)

Most of these tracks came from various records from the Ace label, but if you do like this the try out some of these:
The classic Link Wray

The Original Rumble
The great Richard Berry

Get out of the Car
plus two classic from Tarantino films

PULP FICTION (10TH ANNIVERSARY

Reservoir Dogs

The Tickets - "I'll Be your Pin-up" mp3 is available

Now you can get excited, this rare single is now available again thanks to Terry Murphy over at Bridgehouse here.

Both sides are in mp3 format, ripped at 256kbps at 70p for each side (and their both worth having), so there's no excuse get over there and order yours now.

I've left the original post below so the repost comments make sense:

The Tickets - I'll Be Your Pinup Re-release Campaign:
Don't get too excited as this is not a posting for this excellent rare single, which you can hear some samples over at the outstanding Deadbeats and No Ones here. I heard the samples and really loved this song, and have failed to find a copy, and the original is a bit too pricey for me.

So I emailed the label "Bridgehouse Records" and asked if there was any chance that both sides could be re-released as mp3 files and made available on eMusic or iTunes, and this is the answer:

"If you can get some pre sales, I will get in the studio,and re record , the single we released in the late 70s"

So the question is, how many of you would commit to paying for the mp3's and getting this classic back into general circulation?

Leave a comment if your interested, and also please feel free to put this post in your own blog.

Human Switchboard - Human Switchboard EP

Another gem from Bruce Rhodes, this time Human Switchboard. Their debut single was this same titled 4 track EP. If your a visitor to Frank Millers excellent Shotgun Solution blog you may have already heard their second single "I Gotta Know" and if not you can still hear it here.

If you want to know more about them then check out it out here.

So you get four outstanding tracks and I'm really struggling to pick my favourite, so I'm gonna have to leave it to you to decide. Bruce mentioned that these songs sound like something else, but he can't quite put his finger on it, and nor can I, so anyone got any ideas.? Then leave a comment.

Band: Human Switchboard
Label: Rug Label
Year: 1977
Tracks:
1. Fly-In
2. Distemper
3. Shake It Boys
4. San Francisco

Ripped from Bruce's glorious scratched vinyl (see comments for link).

If you like this then there are two other singles and an album but I don't think there are in general print, so you have to search, beg and borrow.

Spizzenergi - The Custard Channel

This appears to be a bit of a rare one, and it's a real mixed bag if your looking for classic Spizz stuff. Under the name of Spizzenergi (1996-1998 incarnation), it also includes the "Lifestyle project" which was orginally released as an EP with tracks from Claudia Brucken (front lady to Synthpop band Propaganda) and Spizz, three tracks from Spizzvision (1989), one from Spizzenergi 3 (1991) and three already released tracks from Athletic Spizz 80.

The Custard Channel is a worth having just for three re-recordings in 1996 for GLR sessions of the classic Spizz singles Central Park, Where's Captain Kirk? and No Room, and the cover of Kraftwerks classic "The Model".

The Lifestyle project and Spizz vision stuff really moves away from the sound you'd normally expect to hear from Spizz (more commercial in my opinion), plus two football songs, one for England the Spizzenergi 1998 world cup song "E for England" (unofficial I'm sure) plus his homage to Aston Villa.

The stand out tracks for me is the new version of "Where's Captain Kirk?", faithful but just different enough to want to hear both and their excellent cover of "The Model". What do you think? Leave a comment and let us know.

As usual high resolution scans included so you can read the details

Band: Spizzenergi (plus other incarnations)
Label: Spizzcom
Year: 1999
Tracks:
1. The Model - Spizzenergi
2. Central Park (GLR Session) - Spizzenergi
3. Where's Captain Kirk? (GLR Session) - Spizzenergi
4. No Room (GLR Session) - Spizzenergi
5. E For England - Spizzenergi
6. I Want You (In Balance) - Lifestyle with Claudia Bruken
7. Water - Lifestyle with Claudia Bruken
8.I Didn't Believe It - Lifestyle
9. We Want The World - Spizzivision
10. Media Messiah - Spizzivision
11. Angel Baby - Spizzivision
12. Kate Adie - Spizzenergi 3
13. Three Lions In The Sky - Lifestyle
14. Happy Xmas (War Is Over) - Lifestyle
15. The Sun Never Sets On Aston Villa - Spizzenergi
16. Red and Black - Athletico Spizz 80
17. New Species - Athletico Spizz 80
18. Airships - Athletico Spizz 80

Not ripped from glorious scratched vinyl or hissing tape (see comment for link)

If you like Spizz then you can still buy an excellent greatest hits album here:

Where's Captain Kirk: the Very Best of Spizz Energi
Plus a DVD I didn't know about (Ill have to buy this now) here:

Spizzenergi - Where's Captain Kirk - Spizzenergi Live [2005] [DVD]

The ANKLE File - Various REPOST

I've reposted this for a number of reasons:

Number 1. Its a brilliant collection of punk/new wave and for those of you that have missed it, you really need to hear it.

Number 2. If you don't believe me, check out the latest comment from Antonia.

Number 3, Ken sent the scans through for the cover and insert

Number 4. Another recent comment from anonymous (they seem to leave a lot of comments) regarding an error I made on track 4, I got the title and band name the wrong way round (so thanks for spot and the new upload and this post is corrected).

Number 5. There wasn't going to be a reason 5, but I'm playing it right now and it's so good I can't believe some of you haven't tried this yet.

Something for everyone here. This tape came about from a discussion in the comments of The Fakes single Production (link here if your interested). Chris Low (you may recognize his name from Kill Your Pet Puppy comments, he also provided the excellent Fakes demo tape over also over at KYPP) left a few comments and mentioned he was listening to an excellent track called 'New Clash Single' by 'Vertical Smiles'. I said it sounded interesting and he told me it was one track on a tape and agreed to get a friend of his to send it to me. Next stage I get a number of emails from Ken with the tracks. The bit I like is that Ken got them from a guy named Michael Train in New York, ironic really that these old Scottish songs ended up being found and returned all the way from US.

The origin of this tape is a little flakey, so I'm hoping Chris will add some more information later on. The tape was called the Ankle File and Ken believes it was a various tape given away with a fanzine. He also thinks most of the bands came from Stirling/Falkirk area, and one of them called 'FK9' have taken their name from the postcode of the area. No scan or cover, but Chris was going to see if he could find it, so fingers crossed.

So if you like your music a bit raw and unpolished your going to love this tape, there are some real gems on here. There's something for everyone here, some real classic original punk, some powerpop and new wave, so try it out and enjoy.

Please leave a comment and thank Chris, Ken and Michael for sharing this gem and and also tell us whats your favourite track. At the moment for me its 'New Clash Single'.

Band: Various
Year: 1980?
Title: The ANKLE File
Tracks:
1. Asking For It - FK9
2. What Day Is It - 22 Beaches
3. Insight - Rhythm Method
4. Autumn Rainwear - Those French Girls
5. New Clash Single - Vertical Smiles
6. Production Destruction Line - Curious Reign
7. Sade When She Died - 22 Beaches
8. The Last Reign - Curious Reign
9. Sylvia Clarke - The Fakes
10. Sparkle - Those French Girls
11. Final Word - FK9
12. Fire Engine - White Walls

Ripped from someones glorious hissing tape (see comments)

The Monochrome Set - The Monochrome Set 7"

The Monochrome Set released four singles in 1979 (including two versions of the brilliant 'He's Frank' which you can still find one of them here). The same titled single 'The Monochrome Set was their fourth single and is a real gem, but then again nearly everything they did was. The Monochrome Set always had their own unique sound and you can hear it here, does anyone know anyone else that sounded like them?

The a-side is the stand out track but I still love the b-side Mr Bizarro with it's Latin style (they were never afraid to mix different music styles).

A few etchings on this one, the classic "a porky prime cut" plus "To Penman With Love" anyone know what that one means? and on the b-side "PRAG VEC are Fab", well I would have to agree with that one (and you can check their debut single out here). I wonder if the band knew that was on there.

So does Mr Bizzaro get you dancing around or do you prefer 'The Monochrome set? Leave a comment and let ASFM know.

Band: The Monochrome Set
Label: Rough Trade
Year: 1979
Tracks:
1. The Monochrome Set
2. Mr Bizarro

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comment for link)

If you like this then your in luck as you can get most of their classic singles (including both sides of this post) on this excellent compilation here (I have to say whilst I like hearing scratchy vinyl, I also like to hear the Monochrome Set in a quality recording) . for only £5.98 what are you waiting for.:

The Independent Singles Collection

Algebra Mothers - Strawberry Cheesecake 7"

I don't know where or how Bruce (Rhodes) finds these records but I'm really glad he does. Thanks to his last offering and the comments (follow link if your interested), I am now a massive Androids Of Mu fan (can't believe its taken me 30 years).

This time up we have the excellent Algebra Mothers. They hailed from Detroit and released this gem in 1979 on Aftertaste Records. Bruce sent this one in response to the last Devo post and said "there is a distinct Devo meet David Byrne feel to this one". I can also hear a hint of Stranglers with the keyboard. I love the a-side 'Strawberry Cheesecake' which is clearly the stand out track, but the b-side 'Modern Noise' ain't bad. Woh! Devo, David Byrne and the Stranglers, can anyone hear anything else? leave a comment and tell ASFM.

If you want to find a bit more about these guys then try here: www.realcranky.com/PUNKDAYS.html

Band: Algebra Mothers
Label: Aftertaste Records
Year: 1979
Tracks:
1. Strawberry Cheesecake
2. Modern Noise

Ripped from Bruce's glorious scratched vinyl (see comments)

Johnny Thunders and Patti Palladin - Crawfish

Question: What has Elvis Presley, Jowe Head, Joe Strummer, Johnny Thunders and Patti Paladin got in common?

Answer: They all recorded the outstanding 'Crawfish'.

The most famous version is most probably the Elvis Presley (with Kitty White) version from his classic from 'King Creole'., and the most obscure and strangest has got to go to brilliant 'Jowe Head' (no surprises there then) on two albums Pincer Movement and Strawberry Deutsche Mark.

Thunders and Palladin provide a faithful cover to the Presely version, but still manage to stamp that unique Thunders sound. The b-side is 'Tie Me Up' another Thunders/Palladin team up but this time taken from the Que Sera, Sera album. if you like Johnny Thunders you will love both of these tracks.

Artist: Johnny Thunders and Patti Palladin
Label: Jungle Records
Year: 1985
Tracks:
1. Crawfish
2. Tie Me Up

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments)

If you like Crawfish then go out and buy their excellent covers album Copycats here:

Copy Cats
and if you like 'Tie Me Up' then you can buy that plus loads more excellent Thunders stuff here:

Que Sera, Sera

The Lurkers - Ain't Got A Clue 7"

The Lurkers third and most successful single reaching number #45 in the UK charts. The first 15,000 also included the excellent Fulham Flirty Free, a gold flexi disc with the Lurkers playing around and finally singing along "We are the Chaos Brothers".

Unless you bought the reissue of their debut album 'Fulham Fallout' or much later on 'The Lurkers Beggars Banquet Single Collection' you won't have the 'Fulham Flirty Free' or the excellent b-side Ooh! Ooh! I Love You.

The Lurkers being one of my favourite bands especially as they were local and we knew them, over the years I kept a fair amount of Lurkers promotion material, fanzines and music paper clippings including the Lurkers hankie, I don't remember seeing many of these, anyone else got one?

Band: The Lurkers
Label: Beggars Banquet
Year: 1978
Tracks:
1. Ain't Got A Clue
2. Ooh! Ooh! I Love You
3. Fulham Flirty Free

Ripped from glorious (very) scratched vinyl and flexi discs (see comments)























If you like this then you will love this (but surely you already have it):

Fulham Fallout
and all of their excellent singles in perfect condition can be bought here:

Beggars Banquet Singles Collection

Devo - Come Back Jonee 7"

I think this was Devo's 5th single (anyone?) and the first released on Virgin. Come back Jonee is readily available. But as is often the way with 7" singles, the b-side 'Social Fools' has only just been released on the reissue of their debut album, which is a little annoying when you already have a copy. There is another version (not so good) on the album 'Hardcore Volume 1 1974-77.

Both tracks are brilliant, but Social Fools is my favourite, and if you like Devo you will love this. The lyrics are on the back so a high resolution scan is included as usual.

This time they continue their weirdness with the cover, as you can see from the scans you get a free sticker which you can stick on the heard of the statue to complete the picture!!!.

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments for link)

Band: Devo
Label: Virgin
Year: 1978
Tracks:
1. Come Back Jonee
2. Social Fools

If you like this then you can buy their excellent debut album with both tracks here plus a lot more here:

Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo/DEV-O Live

Captain Crawl Repost

A big thank you to Chris from Captain Crawl for answering this post and giving some info on how Captain Crawl works (check out the comments for his reply).

Captain Crawl is back on ASFM.


I have left the orginal post below so anyone intrested can see the comments in context.

ORIGINAL POST
I have decided to give it the Heave Ho!, for three reasons:

1. When I search for any ASFM posts, it doesn't find any of them (even though I have tried submitting more than a few times now)
2. When I search for posts from most of the blogs in my links list, it doesn't find any of them either (try it)
3. When I look for a contact or way to communicate with Captain Crawl to tell them, I can't find one.

So on that basis, goodbye me hearties to Captain Crawl.

If anyone does find a way to make it work then please let me know.

For now anyone searching will just have to use good old Google Blog Search here.

The Heartbeats - Pulsator LP

This posting is spookily coincidental with the posting of one of their singles 'Go' over at the excellent Deadbeats and No Ones here.

I think this is the Heartbeats one and only album released in 1981 on Ariola records. The tracks range from pure power pop to (light) rock, the power pop ones (I'll Be True, Stuck On You, Look At The Eyes, Don't Leave Me Tonight, Mean To Me, and Thinking Of You - in that order) being my favorites. I don't know anything about the Heartbeats except that someone called John Wilson wrote and produced every song.

Does anyone know anything more about the Heartbeats? if so then leave a comment.

Band: The Heartbeats
Label: Ariola
Year: 1981
Album Pulsator
Tracks:
1. Don't Leave Me Tonight
2. Don't Do It
3. Well, Well, Well
4. Look At The Eyes
5. In The Name Of Love
6. Mean To Me
7. Stuck On You
8. Into The Night
9. Thinking Of You
10. Long Time
11. Out Of My Way
12. I'll Be True

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments for link)

Hazel O'Connor - Hanging Around 7"

I've always had a soft spot for Hazel O'Connor ever since this guy turned up at the squats in Brixton looking for Punk extras for a film called 'Breaking Glass'. None of us had heard of it, but for £10 cash in hand a load of us turned up at the 'Hope and Anchor in Islington. For anyone who fancied a career in films it was one of the most boring days I can remember. They filmed the scene over and over again (it must of been 20 cuts) of Hazel O'Connor singing 'Give me an inch'' (with all of us jumping up and down. The only exciting thing that actually happened was a punch up started between the skins and the punks, and the film crew recorded it for a couple of minutes and then shouted that if it didn't stop everyone would be thrown out with no money. When we went to see the film there was about 60 seconds of us and the only bit they really showed was the actual real fight. All the beer was just coloured water, but one thing that did happen was that in the end I ended up really liking 'Give Me An Inch' and then bought a couple more of her singles including this one.

This was her eighth single and is a pretty faithful cover of the Stranglers 'Hanging Around'. This version is a little shorter than the one on her third album 'Cover Plus' and the Greatest hits. The two tracks on the b-side were also unreleased on any of her albums and if you like Hazel O'Connor your like both of them (even 'Not For You' sang in German).

Band: Hazel O'Connor
Label: Albion
Year: 1981
Tracks:
1. Hanging Around
2. Hold On
3. Not For You (German Version)

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments)

If you like this then you can still get the extended version of Hanging Around, plus more here:

Cover Plus
or a good sample of her singles here:

Singular Collection: The Best of Hazel O'Connor
or her best album the soundtrack to Breaking Glass here

Breaking Glass
Or see the film here:

Breaking Glass [DVD] [1980]

Maneaters - Nine To Five 7"

Most probably one of the most overlooked songs from the soundtrack of the film 'Jubilee'. Written (and performed I think) by Toyah Wilcox and Adam Ant this is a 24 carat punk classic. On the b-side another issue of the Suzi Pinns version of 'Jerusalem', I'm not sure how many time this was released but as its also a great song, who cares.

If you have the soundtrack then you have both of these, if not crank up the volume and enjoy.

So should Toyah and Adam Ant partnered more? Leave a comment.

Band: Various
Label: Ego Records
Year: 1978
Tracks:
1. Nine To Five - Maneaters
2. Jerusalem - Suzi Pinns

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments).

Unfortunately the brilliant soundtrack is no longer in print but you can still get some copies in the amazon market place here:

Jubilee
and see the strange, but worth watching film here:

Jubilee [DVD] [1978]

Shock - Angel Face 7"

I know, I know your all thinking what the.... is this doing here. But I've always said I'm a sucker for covers especially if their done differently, so an electronic version of the Glitterbands Angel Face has to fit. I actually bought this from Woolworths classic 'out of the charts box for 25p' (not sure if it ever got in the charts but it was supposedly a dance floor hit)

Shock were a music/mime/dance/pop group that were notable in the early 1980's for supporting bands such as Gary Numan, Adam and the Ants and Depeche Mode. This was their debut single produced by Rusty Egan (ex Rich Kids, Visage fame).

So you get an electronic/dance version of the classic glam hit 'Angel Face' which could never match the original, but it's worth a listen. The b-side has a pretty bland instrumental. They did release one further single, although as I never heard it, I can't comment.

Band: Shock
Label: RCA
Year: 1980
Tracks:
1. Angel Face
2. R.E.R.B.

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments).

If you like this then you could look for their second single 'Dynamo Beat', I haven't got a clue what its like.

Occult Chemistry - Occult Chemistry EP

Another one from Bruce Rhodes. This one is the debut and only release from 'Occult Chemistry'. Bruce describes them as an anarchic/hippie feel like early 'Slits' meet the 'Androids of Mu'. As I've never heard anything by the 'Androids of Mu' its difficult to comment, but I can hear the sound of 'The Slits'.

Two members of 'Occult Chemistry' were in an earlier band (formed in 1978) called 'Twilight Zoners' who released a couple of singles, rather than me rewrite their history you can find all about them and hear all their singles (plus some demos) here http://www.glenncarmichael.co.uk/music/occult.html

So try them out and see what you think, and if you like them then go and check out their other stuff at the link. As per usual don;t forget to leave a comment and thank Bruce for bringing this to our attention.

Band: Occult Chemistry
Label: Zip Records
Year: 1980
Tracks:
1. Water
2. Fire
3. Earth
4. Air

Ripped from Bruce's glorious scratched vinyl (see comments)

The Call, 10,000 Maniacs, X - Elektra Caravan '87 7"

Not sure where I got this one from, but its a sampler for Elektra records featuring three bands, The Call, 10,000 Maniacs and X. The inside gatefold sleeve has information on each band and their latest albums which the label is clearly trying to promote (high resolution scans included).

First up is 'The Call', despite this being a track from their fourth album, I had never heard of them but I really like this track and after all these years I think will check out some of their stuff. Anyone know this band? any recommendations? or is this a one off?, then leave a comment.

Second up is 10,000 Maniacs, a John Peel favourite, and one of their best songs 'What's The Matter' is from their second album 'In My Tribe'. If you like 10,000 Maniacs you will already have this, if you've never tried them then I would recommend starting with their first album 'The Wishing Chair'.

Last up is 'X' the original punk band formed in 1977. Although be prepared this track from their sixth album is nothing like their old stuff, I would nearly categorise this as alt country. but I still like it and would also recommend trying some of John Doe's sole material.

Band: Various
Label: Elektra
Year: 1987
Tracks:
1. In The River - The Call
2. What's The Matter - 10,000 Maniacs
3. See How We Are - X

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments)

So if you like these then why not try out the albums they are sampled from:
The Call's fourth album 'Into The Woods':

Into the Woods
10,000 Maniacs second album 'In My Tribe':

In My Tribe
X's sixth album 'See How We Are':

See How We Are

The Revillos - Motor Bike Beat 7"

In 1979 due to contractual reasons 'The Rezillos' renamed themselves to the very similar 'Revillos'. This was their second single and their highest charting release under the new name at number #45 in the UK Charts.

An excellent fun single which cannot fail to have you singing along.

Band: The Revillos
Label: Dindisc
Year: 1980
Tracks:
1. Motor Bike Beat
2. No Such Luck.

Ripped from glorious scratched vinyl (see comments)

If you like this (and how couldn't you) then your in luck as both sides of this single plus lots more are still available on their debut album 'Rev Up'

Rev Up