The Witch Doctor

April of 2009 is the 51st anniversary of a popular song by the Chipmunks, a fictitious singing group who were created for music listeners to laugh while they enjoyed the music. Let’s learn more about this novelty song, "The Witch Doctor," that hit #1 on the charts in April of 1958.

Inspiration comes from a variety of sources; some people are inspired by passionate pleas, political speeches or historic events. But how can a chipmunk help a person develop a worldwide music dynasty?

Just ask David Seville (Ross Bagdasarian), the brainchild behind the singing novelty group of chipmunks- Alvin, Simon and Theodore. While driving through Yosemite, California, Seville slowed down to allow a chipmunk that was in the road, to carry on his merry little way. But as the chipmunk took his time, ideas flooded Seville’s head, and the fictitious singing group the Chipmunks was born.

In early 1957, Seville cut a novelty ditty called “Witch Doctor,” a song about being unlucky at love. The witch doctor would explain to him specifically what to do to gain the attention of a girl. The silly refrain of “Oo-Ee, Oo-Ah-Ah, Ting-Tang, Walla-Walla, Bing Bang” was launched into the unsuspecting music world and a pop culture phenomenon was born (The "Walla Walla" part of the song was just thrown in as a reference to Ross Bagdasarian's uncle who lived in Walla Walla, Washington). This entire song was performed by Seville in his normal voice and then sped up for the infectious effect.

This fictional group consisted of three singing chipmunks, Alvin, a mischievous, troublemaker and the star of the group (named after Liberty Records president Alvin Bennett), Simon, a tall-intellectual fellow (who was named after Simon Waronker -founder and owner of Liberty Records) and Theodore, the chubby sweetheart of the trio (who was named after chief engineer Theodore Keep).

Recording techniques used to create their unique voices was not a new event. In fact, some of the high and low pitched characters in the legendary movie, “The Wizard of Oz,” were achieved the same way- by speeding up the vocal recordings. Seville actually recorded the vocals and music at different speeds, combining the two perfectly to obtain his trademark sound.

The process was simple- the Chipmunk ‘voices’ were recorded onto an audiotape by voice talent or Seville talking or singing at half the normal speed. This purposely done slowing down could then be played back at double speed making them sound a full octave higher in pitch at normal tempo. A new term also found its way into the American vernacular- the term ‘chipmunked-voiced,’ which means any artificially high-pitched voice. And, as silly as this sounds, the Chipmunks (Seville) actually earned two Grammy Awards for engineering.

These fictional stars soon scored another #1 hit with 1958’s “The Chipmunk Song” and went on to release a long line of children’s albums and singles. Even after Seville’s passing in 1972, his son, Ross Bagdasarian Jr. has kept the empire alive, entertaining new generations of children all over the world. Not a bad result considering that the music was actually inspired by one of our fury friends!


Fun Chipmunk Facts:

The "singing rodent" concept has been successfully imitated elsewhere, notably by the Finnish "singing squirrel" Pikku Orava.

The Chipmunks make a guest appearance on the Canned Heat song "The Chipmunk Song" (which is not the same song as the 1958 hit) that appeared on their Christmas single.

Prince has used the technique on several of his songs, as well as Frank Zappa on “We're Only In It For The Money” and on the instrumental album Hot Rats, among others.

In the early 90's rave scene, many breakbeat hardcore productions would utilize the same studio tricks, often taking a cappellas from old soul and house records and speeding them up to fit the faster tempo. Vocals in songs that used this method would typically be referred to as "chipmunk vocals".

Some people may think that Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers are a "cheap imitation" of the Chipmunks. But, this is incorrect, as Chip and Dale first appeared in the Disney cartoon "Private Pluto" in 1943, more than a decade before the creation of the Chipmunks—however, the cartoon series Chip 'n Dale Rescue Rangers, the first appearance of them with different personalities and first appearance of them wearing clothes was created in 1989, well after the debut of Alvin and the Chipmunks in the fifties. Other than anthropomorphic chipmunks as main characters, the two franchises have little in common, other than the fact that Chip and Dale have squeaky voices created by the speeding up of records to 45.

In the 1980s there was a "group" called The Happy Hamsters, which was an obvious attempt to cash in on the Chipmunks' popularity; it has since lapsed into obscurity.

Still going strong, the Chipmunks' newest album, Undeniable, was released in November 2008.

The Chipmunk's legacy was not without serious issues, in fact, the group's name changed from "The Chipmunks" to "Alvin & The Chipmunks" just like "Diana Ross & The Supremes". Alvin, just like Diana Ross, was the lead singer. The Chipmunks name change sparked rumors of a possible solo career for Alvin. And by 1961, Alvin had his own show called appropriately called "The Alvin Show" and released his first solo album which was also the soundtrack album to the show called "The Alvin Show (album)".

Interestingly, the Chipmunks spoofed John Lennon's 1966 infamous comment that the Beatles had become "more popular than Jesus", by recalling how the Chipmunks had fallen in popularity after Alvin boasted they were "bigger than Mickey Mouse!"

There is also a price difference regarding whether the Chipmunks on the cover of an album are drawn as animals or as the fictional characters.

Classic Rock Videos

Have a Cigar- Pink Floyd

Mr. Music

I am continuing our new feature: Ask "Mr. Music." Now in its 23rd year of syndication (1986-2008), Jerry Osborne's weekly Q&A feature will be a regular post every Wednesday from now on. Be sure to stop by Jerry's site (www.jerryosborne.com) for more Mr. Music archives, record price guides, anything Elvis, buy & sell collectibles, record appraisals and much more. I thank Jerry for allowing the reprints.

FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 20, 2009

DEAR JERRY: I am trying to confirm something I heard decades ago, either on American Top 40 or a similar syndicated music show.

I remember this piece of trivia referring to the Beatles as the only group having each of their principal albums reach No. 1, during their years together.

I know this doesn't apply to miscellaneous (not Capitol-Apple) releases from companies who merely jumped on the Beatle mania bandwagon.

Is this claim true? If not, which LPs are the exceptions?
—Richard McGraw, Owensboro, Ky.


DEAR RICHARD: Album sales are one area where it's hard to overstate the Beatles' supremacy, though this statement, if as you recall, is a wee bit exaggerated.

Of the 17 Capitol-Apple albums, from early 1964 through early '70, only three failed to reach No. 1: “Something New” (1964); “Yellow Submarine” (1969); and “Hey Jude” (1970).

Then again, each of these peaked at No. 2, as close to the crest as possible.

Though I don't agree, someone may have disqualified “Yellow Submarine” for being a soundtrack, and “Hey Jude,” a compilation of 1960s singles. Still the claim is untrue because of “Something New.”

Regardless, among all artists with at least 10 hit albums, no one matches the Beatles' mind-boggling portion of LPs that reached No. 1: from 83% to 94%, depending on how you score it.

Most significant among non-Capitol product is Vee-Jay's “Introducing the Beatles,” their first U.S. LP.

Issued January 10, 1964, about 10 days ahead of “Meet the Beatles,” the Vee-Jay collection zoomed up to No. 2. That would be its peak thanks to the stranglehold on No. 1 by “Meet the Beatles.”

“Introducing the Beatles” is far and away the most successful non-Capitol or Apple LP.

With 19 No. 1 albums overall (1964-2000), the Beatles have about twice as many as the rest of the Top 10 in that department. The only other artist with double-digit No. 1s is Elvis, with 10.



DEAR JERRY: One of my 45s is “Fortuneteller” by Bobby Curtola, a fellow I didn't even know until I got a computer.

Now wired and connected to the world, I see Curtola is one of the most popular singers in Canadian history.

He sounds really great so I am surprised he didn't become bigger in the U.S. If he did I just missed it. Mostly, I would like to know the name of the very familiar sounding female group singing with him on “Fortunteller.”

I can't think of their name but I do recognize their distinctive sound.
—Myra in Detroit


DEAR MYRA: You should, especially if you are familiar with Roy Orbison's “Blue Bayou,” or the angelic voices behind Bobby Helms on “My Special Angel.”
These gals and guys are the Nashville-based Anita Kerr Singers, who appear on more hit records than anyone not named the Jordanaires.

Besides Bobby Curtola — who I think is teriffic, by the way — Roy Orbison, and Bobby Helms, here are just a FEW more folks whose recordings benefit from backing by the Anita Kerr Singers: Bill Anderson; Ann-Margret; Bobby Bare; Pat Boone; Patsy Cline; Perry Como; Red Foley; Al Hirt; Homer & Jethro; Burl Ives; Brenda Lee; Willie Nelson; Elvis Presley; Jim Reeves; Charlie Rich; Hank Snow; Wynn Stewart; Mitchell Torok; Jimmy Velvet; Bobby Vinton; Faron Young; and dozens more.


IZ ZAT SO? With vocal harmonies as beautiful as the Anita Kerr Singers, one would expect them to have a few hit records of their own. Well, they do.

In 1960, billed as the Little Dippers, Anita, along with Floyd Cramer and a few Nashville friends, hit the Top 10 with “Forever” (University 210).

Two years later, now as Anita and Th' So-and-So's, they scored again with “Joey Baby” (RCA Victor 7974) and a nice follow-up, “To Each His Own” (RCA Victor 8050).

Probably Kerr's sweetest single is the late '63 coupling of “Guitar Country” and “Waitin' for the Evening Train” (RCA Victor 8246). On both sides the Anita Kerr Quartet sings as Chet Atkins plays guitar.

Super Furry Animals Album Cover Art

As you all know, I am a sucker for great album cover art. Japanese pop icon Keiichi Tanaami and UK artist Pete Fowler have teamed up to create the latest artwork for the cover art of Super Furry Animals’ latest album Dark Days/Light Years.


The album was officially released on April 21st. Dark Days/Light Years marks the first time both artists have worked on an album cover for the pyschedelic Welsh rockers although Tanaami has done work for the band’s past two albums while Pete Fowler has contributed artwork for six of their past LP’s.

Top 10 most expensive turntables

In the vinyl world, there’s an elite group of individuals who think the best way to listen to music is on a high-quality old-fashioned analog turntable. But, when you are going to pay an exorbitant amount of money for a piece of antiquated technology like a turntable, you unquestionably want it to be one and only. Here is a list of the top 10 most expensive turntable, we will start with number 10 today and do the bottom five- look for the top 5 tomorrow.


10. TEAC’s VPI HR-X1 turntable

Price: $19,000


If you have a taste for high-end audio and don’t mind spending richly for a hi-end craftsmanship than the run-of-the-mill speakers and audio systems, then this $19,000 TEAC’s VPI HR-X1 turntable is meant to satiate your affluent tastes. The VPI HR-X from TEAC features a belt driven, 50-mm thick acrylic plate which floats on an air suspension system at 33.3 or 45rpm. The turntable features 24 extremely, 300rpm AC synchronous motors and it weighs approximately 52.5kg.


9. ClearAudio Master Reference

Price: US $19,000


The ClearAudio Master Reference turntable is the just right pick if you are serious about aesthetics and audio. The turntable is hand-made in Germany and boasts a range of innovative features including APG (Accurate Power Generator) motor control system, master reference chassis, a master TQ-I tonearm and unique ‘Side-Force-Free’ triple motor and belt drive system. The master reference turntable is also available in various other models and is considered by many leading audio magazines, including ‘The Absolute Sound’, ‘Stereoplay’ and ‘Hifi +’ as the best turntable on the marker. Superb mechanical design and precise production provide the foundation for a cohesive, dynamic sound throughout the complete musical spectrum.


8. Proscenium Black Diamond Turntable

Price: US $40,000


The Proscenium Black Diamond Turntable is the result of over 30 years of research to build the best sounding turntable. Every component is selected precisely for its sonic performance. Even the finish on the platter has been selected for its sonic merit. Although the complete system is quite complex, it is extremely reliable and very easy to set up and play. The system comes complete with arm, requiring only your favorite cartridge. Salient features include a huge Air-bearing Platter that is 10 inches in diameter with 3 air jets, Platter and Record Clamp, remote Drive motor, and an Ultimate Motor Controller that comes mounted on an eight-piece Valid Points resonance control kit.


7. SME 30 Turntable

Price: US $40,000


The SME 30 Turntable is compact and incredibly dense, weighing in at 90 lbs. It employs a nifty suspension system using a combination of elastomers and silicone to achieve an almost zero Q suspension. The SME platter mat boasts a unique combination of high shear stiffness and effective vertical damping to purge the energy feedback from the platter back into the record. The amalgamation of compact high mass, non-resonant materials, and speed stability delivers a playback system that will flabbergast you with excellent dynamics, clarity, and noise free background.


6. DaVinciAudio Labs AAS Gabriel

Price: US $41,250


The unique design of the DaVinciAudio Labs AAS Gabriel turntable is inspired from the same process that is used to cut grooves into masters for vinyl discs. The turntable looks deadly cool when we take a look at its form factor and compare the make to the Transrotor Artus, Sondek LP12 SE turntable, TEAC’s VPI HR-X1 turntable, Goldmund’s The Reference II, and the Basis Audio turntable. All of these carry a hefty price tag but when we talk about looks, the AAS Gabriel turntable certainly sits at the top. Frankly speaking, it looks to be something that should be placed in an art museum. It comes equipped with highly stable drive chassis, acoustically sound turntable, silent bearings, and stable power supply. It has been designed in a way to produce absolutely zero noise or vibration. The inimitable design is inspired from the same process that is employed to cut grooves into masters for vinyl discs. Meant for the fat wallets, the 24-karat gold and white Luxury Edition sells for $41,250 while the silver and black version will set you back only $35,400.

SOURCE: http://www.bornrich.org

Audiophile Audition Review

I want to thank John over at http://www.audaud.com/index.php for the exclusive rights to reprint this great review!



AUDIOPHILE AUDITION focuses on recordings of interest to audiophiles and collectors, with an accent on surround sound for music, and on all hi-res disc formats. Over 100SACD, DVD Video/Audio and standard CD reviews are published during each month, and our archives go back to January 2001.



Lonnie Johnson – Portraits in Blues, Vol. 6 – Swingville / Pure Pleasure Records PPAN SLP162 – Audiophile 180 gram LP – (1963 Copenhagen, Denmark) ****1/2:

(Lonnie Johnson, guitar, vocals; Otis Spann, piano)

Lonnie Johnson has been described as the grand old man of the blues. Born in 1894, in New Orleans, Johnson had a long and varied career; both playing and being rediscovered many times when he took time off from playing to do menial labor work to cover the lean times.

Johnson’s playing and singing is unique as it crosses boundaries between jazz and the blues. His blues had a more jazz orientation as his guitar picking leaned toward acoustic jazz and his voice had a sweetness unlike the more country blues gruffness found from Southern blues men. There is a sophistication he brought to blues like Clementine Blues, See See Rider, and Jelly Jelly.

Johnson also mastered the violin, which may be a reason that he made a name for himself in jazz circles, playing with Louis Armstrong’s Hot Seven as well as a brief stay with early Duke Ellington. Lonnie cut an extended series of recordings for Okeh Records in the mid 20s to early 30s. His recordings with jazz guitarist, Eddie Lang, are legendary.

On Portraits of Blues, we find Lonnie near the end of his career (he passed away seven years after this recording) on tour with the great Otis Spann accompanying him on piano. Johnson’s voice was still strong at age 64 and his guitar playing was still robust.

England’s Pure Pleasure Records has done their usual superb remastering job with the original Storyville tapes. It would actually be news if Pure Pleasure had done anything less. Having the opportunity to hear Lonnie Johnson in superb sonics is a real treat as Johnson is a unique musician who could cross jazz and blues genres easily. This LP shows that the two musical idioms could be blended into a sweet mix when you have the talent of the inimitable Lonnie Johnson. Highly recommended!


TrackList:
Side 1:
Tomorrow Night
Clementine Blues
See See Rider
Raining on the Cold Cold Ground
Jelly, Jelly


Side 2:
Too Late to Cry
Call Me Darling
Why Did You Go
Swingin’ with Lonnie
Please Help Me





Earl Hines and Harry “Sweets” Edison – Earl Meets Harry- Pure Pleasure Records/ Definitive Black and Blue Sessions PPAN 007 – 180 gram vinyl LP- 1978 *****:

(Earl “Fatha” Hines, piano; Harry “Sweets” Edison, trumpet)

As translated from the French album liner notes, it was surprising to note that jazz giants Earl Hines and Harry Edison, hardly knew each other in 1978 when they entered the Studio Sinus in Berne, Switzerland, on April 26, 1978. Well it certainly did not take them long to mesh as their styles are so complementary.

Hines was a master stride pianist and had among the quickest left hands in the business, as he would augment his stride lines with glistening arpeggios without losing a beat. With that lightning left hand he could approach Art Tatum in technique but not speed, as in that department Tatum had no peer, as Art played the piano as if having four hands and two pianos.

Sweets Edison was a master at understatement like his former boss, Count Basie. He could say more with fewer notes than most of his contemporaries. His taste was exquisite and he could swing effortlessly.

The Hines Edison duo just shines here playing strictly standards such as I Cover the Waterfront, Just Squeeze Me, Just You Just Me, and Mean to Me. For swing fans it’s a match made in heaven as Hines embellishes while Sweets plays all the right notes. As these songs are so well known, you kind of know what to expect, but it’s a treat to hear Hines cutting loose and Edison’s sweet, warm tone carrying the day.

Oh, did I forget to mention the impeccable true to life intimate acoustics that Pure Pleasure brings to all their projects is worth every penny of the asking price? If you dig Fatha and Sweets, you’ve got to have this LP.

TrackList: Side A: I Cover the Waterfront, Just Squeeze Me, But Not for Me, Just You Just Me
Side B: Mean to Me, I Surrender Dear, The One I Love Belongs to Somebody Else





Laura Nyro – New York Tendaberry – Columbia/ Pure Pleasure Records- PPAN KCS9737 – (1969) *****:

Laura Nyro could break your heart with her gut-wrenching beauty. She poured out her emotions in songs full of gospel, soul, folk and jazz. She was a one of a kind and wore her heart on her sleeve. She had a once in a generation voice as Billie Holiday brought to jazz, and Joan Baez to folk.

The audiophile label, Pure Pleasure Records, out of England, has done a public service in releasing New York Tendaberry in glorious 180-gram vinyl with sumptuous remastering by Ray Staff. Laura’s vocals are crystalline and the occasional orchestral backings by Jimmy Haskell jump out from your speakers and will blow your mind on a quality pair of headphones.

Save the Country and Time And Love have been covered by many pop artists, but its Laura’s versions that stand the test of time. When you hear her emote, it’s as if Laura wrote the lyrics just to inspire you.

Laura Nyro had a brief period in the limelight before retiring at age 24. She came back on the scene several times in the ensuing decades but never regained her moment in the sun before dying of ovarian cancer in 1997. Her most noted compositions-Eli’s Coming, Stone Soul Picnic, and Sweet Blindness-were made into much bigger hits by others. Her genius was recognized by none other than David Geffen, who quit his early job as a music agent to become her manager.

New York Tendaberry had few hits, with the exception of Save the Country. What it did have was heartfelt lyrics sung in glorious emotions of happiness and deep pain by the genius that was Laura Nyro. What passes as pop music today pales in comparison. It was a “pure pleasure” to review this audiophile LP wonder…

TrackList: (Side A): You Don’t Love Me When I Cry, Captain for Dark Mornings, Tom Cat Goodbye, Mercy on Broadway, Save the Country
(Side B): Gibsom Street, Time and Love, The Man Who Sends Me Home, Sweet Lovin’ Baby, Captain Saint Lucifer, New York Tendaberry

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Welcome To The Machine - Pink Floyd

Vinyl Collective News

I am happy to hear my friend Virgil over at www.vinylcollective.com is feeling better. Here is the latest news, stop by and pick up some great vinyl at the site:

With the shipment of the new NOFX album (Fristbee/Coaster), we received some restocks, too. Lawrence Arms, Loved Ones, Descendents, Strung Out, Sick of It All, D4, and more.

NOFX “Frisbee” LP
NOFX “Coaster” CD
AGAINST ME! “Don’t Lose Touch” LP
DESCENDENTS “Cool To Be You” LP
DILLINGER FOUR “Situationist Comedy” LP
J CHURCH “One Missippi” dbl LP
J Church “The Drama Of Alienation” LP
LAWRENCE ARMS “Oh! Calcutta!”LP
NO USE FOR A NAME “The Feel Good Record of the Year” LP
NOFX “Regaining Unconsciousness” 7″
NOFX “Surfer” 7″
NOFX “The Decline” LP
NOFX “The Longest Line” LP
NONE MORE BLACK “File Under Black” LP
PROPAGANDHI “How To Clean Everything” LP
SICK OF IT ALL “Call to Arms” LP
STRIKE ANYWHERE “Dead FM” LP
STRUNG OUT “American Paradox” LP
STRUNG OUT ìSuburban Teenage Wasteland Bluesî LP
THE LAWRENCE ARMS “Apathy & Exhaustion” LP
THE LOVED ONES “Build & Burn” LP
THE LOVED ONES “Distractions” LP

Best Buy Vinyl !

According to the New York Post, Best Buy is thinking about selling vinyl records again in their stores.

The reason, as we all know, is that vinyl sales are growing. (As much as 15 percent up in 2007 and 89% in 2008). The 2009 forecast gets even better. The numbers are so good that mega giant Best Buy started a vinyl record pilot program in 100 stores. The results are so encouraging that the third largest music seller after iTunes and Wal-Mart is thinking about using as much as eight square feet in each of its 1,020 stores to sell vinyl records.

Apparently, vinyl records are becoming a cult object, with an audience seeking the appeal of the physical format and the special sound of analog (which in the case of the classics, could be more attractive than the digital productions). The interest, although minimal considering the rest of the industry, is big enough that big labels are re-releasing old records in the vinyl format. Many established record companies (i.e. Capitol Records) are jumping on the 'vinyl bandwagon' and I would think that many more will be doing the same thing in the upcoming months. Why? It's all about the music (and profit) and there is money to be made. Hail Vinyl !

Allman Brothers' Beacon Run To Be Released in Massive Box Set

Although not a vinyl release, I feel that this is an historic day for Allman Brothers fans as bands' historic concerts at the Beacon Theater in New York last month is set to be released in a 45-disc CD package capturing all fifteen shows. This is the first time that the Allman Brothers have released any live music from, what is now, their 188 consecutive sold out shows dating back to 1989.

The run not only celebrated their 40th anniversary as a band, but was also dedicated to the late Duane Allman, guitarist and band founder. Joining them over the 15 nights is an amazing group of iconic musicians including: Eric Clapton, Levon Helm, Taj Mahal, Buddy Guy, Boz Scaggs, Johnny Winter, Sheryl Crow, Stanley Clarke, Kid Rock, Bonnie Bramlett, Robert Randolph, John Hammond, Billy Gibbons, David Hidalgo, Trey Anastasio, Susan Tedeschi, Bob Weir, Phil Lesh among others.

Also included in the set will be the band's performance at Warren Haynes' 20th annual Christmas Jam from December 2008 and 40 photos taken during the Beacon run. All of this will be included in a custom numbered box.

The price for this massive set is a bit expensive, but fans should have no problem shelling out the $499.00 for this amazing collectible set. Individual shows are also available for $27.00.

New Vinyl Releases

Bob Dylan: Together Through Life (2-CD & DVD) (LP & CD)

The Crocodiles: Summer Of Hate (vinyl)

Flipper: Generic (vinyl reissue)

Flipper: Gone Fishin' (vinyl reissue)

Florence and the Machine: A Lot of Love. A Lot of Blood (vinyl)

Flower-Corsano Duo: The Four Aims (vinyl)

Funkadelic: Cosmic Slop (vinyl reissue)

Funkadelic: Free Your Mind...And Your Ass Will Follow (vinyl reissue)

Gomez: A New Tide (vinyl)

Hearts Revolution: Switchblade EP

I Monster: A Dense Swarm of Ancient Stars (vinyl)

Immaculate Machine: High on Jackson Hill (vinyl)

Juan Maclean: One Day (vinyl)

Malajube: Labyrinthes (vinyl)

My Bloody Valentine: Isn't Anything (vinyl reissue)

My Bloody Valentine: Loveless (vinyl reissue)

Other Lives: Other Lives (vinyl)

Pulp: This Is Hardcore (vinyl reissue)

Ray LaMontagne: Till the Sun Turns Black (vinyl reissue)

Ray LaMontagne: Trouble (vinyl reissue)

Still Flyin': Never Gonna Touch the Ground (vinyl)

Thee Oh Sees: Help (vinyl)

Tosca: No Hassle (vinyl)

Townes Van Zandt: Live at the Old Quarter, Houston, Texas (vinyl)

Turbo Fruits: Mama's Mad Cos I Fried My Brain (vinyl)

Weedeater: God Luck and Good Speed (vinyl)

Bird & Animal Names In Rock & Roll History- part ten

I am adjusting the schedule for this feature, look for this every Tuesday


As we continue our article series about “bird” and “animal” artists and groups in rock and roll, let’s revisit our “bird” theme and start with a little known band that was produced by Dave Edmunds.

Although never hugely popular, the London-based pub rockers “Ducks Deluxe” never let the mainstream rock and roll world get in their way. Playing American-style blues and boogie, adroitly woven with unpretentious rock and roll, Ducks Deluxe members’ Sean Tyla (guitar/vocals), Martin Belmont (guitars), Nick Garvey (bass) and Andy McMaster (keyboards) released several passionate LPs, starting in 1974.

But their best work just happened to be on their final studio album in 1975, an album called “All Too Much” (they added Mick Groom on bass and Tim Roper on the drums). In an expanded version of their EP “Jumpin’” (1975), the group attacks the Bobby Fuller hit “I Fought The Law” with shear abandon and actually are able to capture the essence of the song. Other notable cuts include a romantic rocker, blended with an extraordinary slide guitar on the song “Amsterdam Dog.” They also offer up two different versions of “Something’s Going On” and do an amazing cover of “Here Comes The Night.” Other highlights include the anthem-like “Rock and Roll for Every Boy and Girl” and the funky rhythms of the song “Cannons of the Boogie Night.”

And although they never “hit the big time,” this seminal pub rock band member’s experiences in Ducks Deluxe would serve them well. Ex-Ducks Deluxe members Nick Garvey and Andy McMaster formed the rock/pop band the Motors in 1977. Duck’s guitarist Martin Belmont went on to join Graham Parker’s backing band called The Rumour. Sean Tyla then formed the Tyla Gang. The group reformed to celebrate the 35th anniversary of their original formation.

Another “bird” group that never went on to be a household name was the Scottish-English soul band named “Stone The Crows” (from a Scottish curse meaning “the hell with it”). Perhaps the band’s claim to fame may have been introducing a Janis Joplin-like blues singer named Maggie Bell, who was singing with Les Harvey (brother of Alex Harvey of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band) in a band called Power. They caught the attention of Led Zeppelin manager, Peter Grant, who renamed the group “Stone The Crows.” The first two album releases met with critical acclaim, but failed to sell.

Their 1971 album “Teenage Licks,” was full of blues-rockers and was met with rave reviews and it seemed that the band was on the verge of success. In fact, Singer Maggie Bell won Britain’s Top Girl Singer Award for the first of many times. But, tragedy struck when band member Les Harvey was electrocuted by a microphone wire during a show. Guitarist Jimmy McCulloch came in to finish the predetermined gigs and also played on the band’s next release “Ontinuous,” but the band broke up shortly after its release. McCulloch would later join Paul McCartney and Wings and after a stint with them, he joined up with the reformed band Small Faces. Maggie Bell released several solo albums and enjoyed moderate success as a session vocalist, including sitting in on Rod Stewart’s album called “Every Picture Tells A Story.”

One of the first true punk groups from “down under” was the influential punk band called “Radio Birdman,” who released several high-energy, guitar heavy LPs in the late 70's (the origin of the band’s name comes from a lyric in the Blue Oyster Cult song “Dominance and Submission”). In their first EP called, “Burn My Eye,” surfer-turned vocalist Rob Younger unleashes his distinctive boisterous rants, while guitarist Deniz Tek skillfully plays rapid-fire, feverish guitar.

On their first LP, the band engages in a thunderous cover of the Stooges’ “T.V. Eye,” conquer the world of urban desolation with the song “Murder City Nights” and fill the album with emotionally draining, yet genre defining punk rock. But, after taking almost three years to record a follow up album, dozens of other Australian punk bands stole the spotlight and the group split up almost immediately after their second LP called “Living Eyes.” The band has influenced the work of many successful, mainstream groups and is now considered to be one of the most crucial bands to Australia's musical growth, but their main legacy was their towering influence over Australian indie rock in the 1980s.

We will continue with our article series about “bird” and “animal” groups and artists in rock and roll next week!


Ducks Deluxe Tidbits:

The band reformed to celebrate the 35th anniversary. This was at the 100 Club in London on October 9, 2007. The line-up was Martin Belmont, Sean Tyla, Mickey Groome and Billy Rankin. On January 26, 2008 they played Centre Culturel de Paul Baillart, Massy, near Paris, France. And on September 20, 2008 they played the PopXiria Festival in Carbello, near La Coruna in Spain, headlining the final night of the event.

In 2009, Ducks Deluxe appeared at the Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne Minster, Dorset on January 24, 2009 and are scheduled to tour Sweden in April 2009.

The permanent line-up of the band is now Sean Tyla (vocals and guitar), Martin Belmont (guitar and vocals), Kevin Foster (bass guitar and backing vocals) and Jim Russell on drums.

The band are reported to be compiling a new CD for release in 2009 of rare live tracks, b-sides (never before released on CD) and perhaps some new material as well.


Stone The Crows Tidbits:

Original Lineup:
Maggie Bell, vocals
Les Harvey, guitar
Colin Allen, drums
James Dewar, bass
John McGinnis, keyboards

One of their fantastic covers is the Beatles' "Fool On The Hill" "I always wanted to do this because it's got great lyrics. We didn't really do it like the Beatles but I remember Petula Clark once said it was the finest version she'd ever heard," explained Maggie.

Maggie Bell now lives in Rotterdam, Holland, and is still singing and recording. In 1995 she did a tour of Scotland with the old Alex Harvey Band which went down a storm. She also toured with Chris Farlowe for three years. "I have been keeping busy. I could never give this business up!"


Radio Birdman Tidbits:

Although there was no official announcement by management, the group disbanded in May 2008.

In 2006 Radio Birdman was very active, spearheaded by the completion of a new album entitled “Zeno Beach,” which was released in Australia on June 24, 2006 via the band's own Crying Sun Records, and in the US via Yep Roc Records.

In July 2007 the band were inducted into the ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) Hall of Fame.

Copyright 2009 Robert Benson

Classic Rock Videos

Pink Floyd - Learning to Fly

Top 5 eBay Vinyl Record Sales

Week Ending 04/25/2009

1. LP - Leonid Kogan "Kogan Plays Beethoven" EMI - $5778.00 - Start: $9.99 - Bids: 25

2. LP - Lee Morgan "Presenting" Blue Note - $2,927.00 - Start: $750.00 - Bids: 14

3. 45 - Pat Lewis "No One To Love" / "(I Owe You) Something" Solid Hit - $2,309.99 - Start: $376.99 - Bids: 13

4. 78 - Frank Stokes "What's The Matter Blues" / "Take Me Back" Victor - $2,075.00 - Start: $500.00 - Start: 5

5. 45 - Ernest Ranglin "Skalvouv!a" / "Free Form" Kentone - $2,025.00 - Start: $99.99 - Bids: 5

5. LP - George Harrison "All Things Must Pass" EMI UK - $2025.00 - Start: $24.99 - Bids: 5


A classical LP makes the top of the list this week, and for once it is not a record of a performance of Bach. A Leonid Kogan performance of Beethoven bids way up past its previous high to sell for well over $5.7k. In the #2 spot a Lee Morgan LP on Blue Note sells for over $2.9k.

A northern soul 45 from Pat Lewis on Solid Hit bids to a little over $2.3k. The #4 spot goes to a blues 78 on Victor, this one from Frank Stokes, and it sells for well over $2k.

A 45 and an LP tie for the #5 spot. A reggae 45 from Ernest Ranglin on Kentone, and a sealed UK pressing of George Harrison's "All Things Must Pass" both bid to one quarter over $2k.

As always, thank you to Norm at http://ccdiscoveries.blogspot.com for this wonderful data!

100 Greatest Drum Beats

Britain's Rhythm magazine has chosen their list of the 100 Greatest Drum Beats of All Time. Enlisting the help of people like Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Chickenfoot), Joey Jordinson (Slipknot), Thomas Lang and Peter Erskine, the editorial staff put together their list of 100 great rhythms that span from 30's jazz to current material.

Here is the top 25:

1. The Funky Drummer (Parts 1 & 2) - James Brown (Clyde Stubblefield)
2. When the Levee Breaks - Led Zeppelin (John Bonham)
3. Cissy Strut - Meters (Zigaboo Modeliste)
4. Take Five - Dave Brubeck (Joe Morello)
5. Back in Black - AC/DC (Phil Rudd)
6. Won't Get Fooled Again - Who (Keith Moon)
7. Sing, Sing, Sing - Benny Goodman Orchestra (Gene Krupa)
8. Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana (Dave Grohl)
9. Ballroom Blitz - Sweet (Mick Tucker)
10. Cold Sweat - James Brown (Clyde Stubblefield)
11. Raining Blood - Slayer (Dave Lombardo)
12. Rosanna - Toto (Jeff Porcaro)
13. Roxanne - Police (Stewart Copeland)
14. One - Metallica (Lars Ulrich)
15. Good Times, Bad Times - Led Zeppelin (John Bonham)
16. Blue Monday - New Order (Oberheim DMX drum machine)
17. We Will Rock You - Queen (Roger Taylor)
18. Lust For Life - Iggy Pop (Hunt Sales)
19. Quadrant 4 - Billy Cobham (Billy Cobham)
20. Sunday Bloody Sunday - U2 (Larry Mullen, Jr.)
21. Superstition - Stevie Wonder (Stevie Wonder)
22. Sunshine of Your Love - Cream (Ginger Baker)
23. Come Together - Beatles (Ringo Starr)
24. Midlife Crisis - Faith No More (Mike Bordin)
25. Sexy MF - Prince (Michael Bland)


I looked at the top 100 and I know that these types of lists are very subjective, but I see two glaring ommissions, Bruce Gary (The Knack) with "My Sharona" and John Lennon's "Instant Karma," (with the drums being played by Alan White). Both of these cuts feature fantastic drum 'riffs' and would certainly make my top 10. Additionally, Ringo Starr is such an under appreciated talent, you mean to say that only one Beatles cut made the list? And what about Mick Fleetwood? Any comments?

To see the rest of the list, visit:
100-greatest-drum-beats-of-all-time