My Records & Stuff

I haven't been collecting northern soul records for much longer than 10 years so a lot of things that were big in the 70's I've never heard. That's not a bad thing though, it also gives me an open mind on records; I don't automatically pigeon hole sounds into "oldies", "newies" etc. Anyway, enough waffle, have a listen to the things I've been buying and in my collection.

August 2008

Been a bit busy so I haven't added anything in July. I've decided to move all this to a blog which can be found here: Paul's Records' Blog

This should be a bit easier to update and add to. There should be a tab at the top of the page soon.

June 2008

Little Esther - Wild Child - Warwick 610

An early outing for Esther Philips of "Just Say Goodbye" and "What A difference A Day Makes" fame.

Mid-tempo R&B that sounds just right for today's dance floor. Esther sings about the effect her new man has on her then the chorus breaks in accompanied by driving saxaphone. "Wild, Wild Child!"

Dunno what the going rate for this is as I haven't seen it before and it isn't in the guides. Probably paid too much.

Click here to listen

Ritchie Adams - Pakistan - Imperial 5838

I can't resist odd records and this is odd!

Not particularly PC and a bit confused about his cultures too, Ritchie (I Can't Escape) Adams warbles about visiting Pakistan, meeting a dusky maiden and bringing her home with him.

Apart from the cheesy lyrics on this popcorn tune listen out for the end bit as they sing together - ouch! Not sure if I'd play this one out!

Click here to listen

The Fiestas - Think Smart - Old Town 1178

Classic Northern Soul!

Two plinks on an out of tune piano then off it goes into a frantic, almost pleading, instantly danceable tune.

Always liked this but it's never come around when I had the money until this one. It's not the best copy but then again it wasn't too expensive.

Click here to listen

David Coleman - Drown my Heart - Barry

As soon as I heard this I had to get a copy, happily I found a mint one fairly quickly. Latin Northern Soul - whatever next?!

Fantastic lyrics - "You Left Me Like Dirt On The Coffin" - against the smooth backing of the Hector Riviera orchestra combine to make a sophisticated and eminently danceable tune.

Click here to listen

Vernon Greene - Look At Me - Minit

I'm a real sucker for male voice mid-tempo so this one grabbed me straight away.

Slick production and a big band backing makes for a really professional sound if occasionally Vernon struggles against the band.

Always in my playbox.

Click here to listen