The Lambrettas – Beat Boys In The Jet Age
by Jez Bird (singer/guitarist), Doug Sanders (guitarist/vocalist), Mark Ellis (bassist) and Paul Wincer (drummer). The name kind of gives it away. The Lambrettas were a band …
Album Reviews
Secret Affair – Behind Closed Doors
Behind Closed Doors was written in a bit of a rush, presumably to capitalise on the success of the first record. It meant that the two main songwriters, Ian Page and David Cairns, worked remotely and apart, each writing in isolation in different parts of the world.
Peret – La Fiesta No Es Para Feos
The Eurovision minded amongst you will know Peret, real name Pedro Pubill Calaf, from the 1974 contest representing Spain, where he came in 9th place with 10 points (simpler times!). He also performed at the Barcelona Olympics in 1992.
Paul McCartney – Driving Rain
It must be really difficult constantly being compared to somebody, like your father for example, but even more so if that somebody is your younger self. McCartney set such a high standard with his first solo LP, McCartney, RAM and then the initial Wings offerings including the excellent Band On The Run, that any dip in form seems amplified and somehow more disappointing. I actively avoided a lot of it as I preferred to remember one of my heroes at his very best. Was that unfair? Was I wrong to do so? Let’s find out….
The Chords – So Far Away
Another mod revival title from 1980, The Chords’ So Far Away is probably as good an example of the genre as you’re likely to listen to. Punchy, angsty anthems that encapsulates the spirit of mod revival, the 1980s and working class values.
The Gents – How It All Began
I came across this record in 1986. Mod Revival was on the wane, and we were all transitioning to fully fledged ‘Scooter Boys’ by that time, enjoying the rallies, the live music and the beer that went with them.
Drahla – angeltape
Post Punk band Drahla focus on avant-garde and experimental elements more than most. Post, post punk may be more accurate as they somewhat redefine and disrupt the genre, especially with the outstanding saxophone playing of Chris Duffin.
Dave Evans – Elephantasia
“A glorious folk opus from 1972”, “Long lost and attaining a legendary reputation”, “Timeless record that never got its due” You had me at folk …
BC Camplight – The Last Rotation of Earth
In Manchester, Christinzio managed to resurrect his music career and signed to Brighton based Bella Union a couple of years after the move. People started to take notice. He enjoyed increased exposure and reached many more listeners than he had ever done in the USA.
The Ambassadors – Somewhere To Hide
I have been meaning to write up the notes I had on this mini album for quite some time. I love small run, self funded …