The bettajive review #6
The Bettajive Review
A White Sports Coat. As a kid first into Rock n Roll, your clothes made you as much as your hair and shoes. Jackets and coats have always played a massive part. The holy grail of a bunch of fourteen year olds was to have a drape. Now let’s get it into a framework readers. There was a shop in Colchester, known as the ‘Ted shop’ although I think it had another ‘proper’ name. Although a short hop nowadays, the time I’m talking about, was when it might as well have been the other side of the planet, and trips there had to be planned weeks in advance!
The shop sold drapes, bootlace ties, fluorescent colourful socks and the like, and it was our port of call every time we went there, even though we didn’t always buy anything, if you get my drift (kids big dreams and little cash). Fluorescent socks readers, did you have a pair? My first ones were green, not bottle green, avocado green, grass green or envy green, no I mean greeeeen. The type of green that was so bright, that aircraft approaching diverted at the sight of them.
Anyway, they had a drape in the window of this shop, it was light blue and had black velvet cuffs and lapels. And it fitted me like a bum-in-a-bucket, perfect. Then the price tag, twenty five quid. Twenty five? Yep, and to put that into the afore mentioned context, I was earning £3.20 a week on paper round. Eight weeks working nigh on, and no other spends. No, I had to reload and re-aim the sights.
There was a brief attempt to adjust the old school blazer, but that reminded me too much of that place, so that idea was a non starter. Cue my mate’s mum, who could make ‘stuff’ and she could run up a drape for me, lined, and with a matching waistcoat, for ten quid. The only proviso was, no velvet cuffs. Was that too much of a compromise? Nope, not when it would be less than half the price.
I wore that with expanded chest everywhere, and I still have it. It’s pictured here, although I don’t wear it now, it, errrr, shrunk…. Outside of that, during the usual day to day wear, I had a denim jacket. That was prompted originally, by the Six Million Dollar Man, who on occasions wore double-denim, and looked super cool in it. The trouble was, you couldn’t wear denim without the temptation to run about in slow motion going ‘da da da daaaa’ (as your parents/grandparents kids). To make the jacket fit my raison d’etre, I had an iron on pin up, transferred onto the back of it. I don’t have it anymore, it, errrr, shrunk.
A White Sports Coat. As a kid first into Rock n Roll, your clothes made you as much as your hair and shoes. Jackets and coats have always played a massive part. The holy grail of a bunch of fourteen year olds was to have a drape. Now let’s get it into a framework readers. There was a shop in Colchester, known as the ‘Ted shop’ although I think it had another ‘proper’ name. Although a short hop nowadays, the time I’m talking about, was when it might as well have been the other side of the planet, and trips there had to be planned weeks in advance!
The shop sold drapes, bootlace ties, fluorescent colourful socks and the like, and it was our port of call every time we went there, even though we didn’t always buy anything, if you get my drift (kids big dreams and little cash). Fluorescent socks readers, did you have a pair? My first ones were green, not bottle green, avocado green, grass green or envy green, no I mean greeeeen. The type of green that was so bright, that aircraft approaching diverted at the sight of them.
Anyway, they had a drape in the window of this shop, it was light blue and had black velvet cuffs and lapels. And it fitted me like a bum-in-a-bucket, perfect. Then the price tag, twenty five quid. Twenty five? Yep, and to put that into the afore mentioned context, I was earning £3.20 a week on paper round. Eight weeks working nigh on, and no other spends. No, I had to reload and re-aim the sights.
There was a brief attempt to adjust the old school blazer, but that reminded me too much of that place, so that idea was a non starter. Cue my mate’s mum, who could make ‘stuff’ and she could run up a drape for me, lined, and with a matching waistcoat, for ten quid. The only proviso was, no velvet cuffs. Was that too much of a compromise? Nope, not when it would be less than half the price.
I wore that with expanded chest everywhere, and I still have it. It’s pictured here, although I don’t wear it now, it, errrr, shrunk…. Outside of that, during the usual day to day wear, I had a denim jacket. That was prompted originally, by the Six Million Dollar Man, who on occasions wore double-denim, and looked super cool in it. The trouble was, you couldn’t wear denim without the temptation to run about in slow motion going ‘da da da daaaa’ (as your parents/grandparents kids). To make the jacket fit my raison d’etre, I had an iron on pin up, transferred onto the back of it. I don’t have it anymore, it, errrr, shrunk.
Did you have a plaid lumberjack coat fellow boomers? In the 70’s, they were blue/grey/white or brown/cream/white check, or as mine was red/burgundy/white and had a big faux sheepskin lining and turned back collar, with some weird ‘D’ rings that didn’t appear to serve much of a purpose. The pockets were a little odd as well with the entrance to them at the top, so it wasn’t very comfortable walking about, trying to look hard, with your hands at that angle! Designs of this type are enjoying somewhat of a renaissance, I bought one a couple of years ago from the Rhythm Riot. I haven’t got the one from the 70’s though, it, errrr, shrunk.
Soon though the style changed, into the eighties, and I got a double breasted, cream sports jacket, with brown flecks, that I absolutely loved. The box jacket style is one that I really like and have a fair number today. The one in the picture was new from a shop in my home town and I’ll be honest, almost felt like it was made to measure, and didn’t have that silly looking flap in the back that was most undesirable. The combination of that and the black peg trouser, is one that remains a favourite today. Unfortunately, I don’t have it anymore, it, errrr, shrunk. Are you noticing a pattern here readers? ☹
Soon though the style changed, into the eighties, and I got a double breasted, cream sports jacket, with brown flecks, that I absolutely loved. The box jacket style is one that I really like and have a fair number today. The one in the picture was new from a shop in my home town and I’ll be honest, almost felt like it was made to measure, and didn’t have that silly looking flap in the back that was most undesirable. The combination of that and the black peg trouser, is one that remains a favourite today. Unfortunately, I don’t have it anymore, it, errrr, shrunk. Are you noticing a pattern here readers? ☹
Both June and I had Letterman jackets, those authentic looking American Varsity jackets with sleeves that were a different colour to the actual jacket. Some of the original fifties ones that made it to the market would have a particular school or college sports team emblazoned on them, and I often wondered who the teams were. June’s was a reddish colour with white sleeves, I had burgundy and blue sleeves and blue with cream sleeves. The jackets aren’t so prominent these days, although a quick scan of the ‘net, shows you can get new ones pretty reasonably priced. Oh, and mine didn’t shrink, my sister nabbed one of them and the other literally wore out!
For day wear also, it was zipper style jackets, the blue one in the pic was a particular fave of mine. Again, the Holy Grail was the ones with the different coloured yolk, though my one was uniform blue and if memory serves, was reversable, having a red and white check as the alternative. And guess what? It still fits*
I’m glad that I kept hold of some of the jackets I’ve had over the years, of various colours and styles. Just got to make sure they still fit…… 😉
Dot…dot. Best tracks in the world ever ever to chomp your Christmas left overs for this month are Danny Owens ‘You’re a Little Too Late’, The Jesters’ ‘I Laughed’ and ‘Trouble’ by Hedley and Lee……Over Christmas, we’ve missed a couple of weekends of gigs. It’s quite surprising how out of shape you can feel taking the floor for the first time again. We must’ve sounded as rusty as Talos** in Argonautica…..We’ve read the comment ‘Maybe next time/month/year’ under some events and club gigs. Folks, there might not be a next time/month/year, unless events get your support, think on…..*no it doesn’t, it, errrr, shrunk……
**For completists, please note that we are aware that as the giant automation Talos, in Greek mythology, was made of Bronze, a non-ferrous metal, he couldn’t actually rust, merely tarnish. And be aware that he was also not real!
For day wear also, it was zipper style jackets, the blue one in the pic was a particular fave of mine. Again, the Holy Grail was the ones with the different coloured yolk, though my one was uniform blue and if memory serves, was reversable, having a red and white check as the alternative. And guess what? It still fits*
I’m glad that I kept hold of some of the jackets I’ve had over the years, of various colours and styles. Just got to make sure they still fit…… 😉
Dot…dot. Best tracks in the world ever ever to chomp your Christmas left overs for this month are Danny Owens ‘You’re a Little Too Late’, The Jesters’ ‘I Laughed’ and ‘Trouble’ by Hedley and Lee……Over Christmas, we’ve missed a couple of weekends of gigs. It’s quite surprising how out of shape you can feel taking the floor for the first time again. We must’ve sounded as rusty as Talos** in Argonautica…..We’ve read the comment ‘Maybe next time/month/year’ under some events and club gigs. Folks, there might not be a next time/month/year, unless events get your support, think on…..*no it doesn’t, it, errrr, shrunk……
**For completists, please note that we are aware that as the giant automation Talos, in Greek mythology, was made of Bronze, a non-ferrous metal, he couldn’t actually rust, merely tarnish. And be aware that he was also not real!
Your Boston Jive hosts Claire and Neil Seabrook, bring a real blue chip act over to Lincolnshire, from Germany. Ray Collins Hot Club are well established with their jumping, jiving brand of R&B that has delighted crowds around the world
Do not miss this one readers, with support from the Summertime Kings and DJ Mr Big Feet. |
Herts-felt. One of our regular haunts nowadays, is Domino’s Rock n Roll Club. Situated in Letchworth, Hertfordshire, the Jackman Community Centre, it’s become one of the go-to places for cool nights out in that particular county. Entertainment for the evening, was the Hicksville Bombers on stage, with Domino and Bill Guntrip sharing the DJ duties. So, you know you’re on a winner to start with eh readers?
Unusually, it was a Friday night for Domino’s, although a decent headcount showed up, to see the settled trio line up of the Bombers. That being Dave Brown on lead guitar and vocals, Landon Filer on bass and drummer Paul Saunders. So following some cool sounds from the decks, the lads took the stage, unusually without the siren, and the traditional ‘Bombs Away’. Judging by the assembled crowd near the stage, I’m sure there were ample handle crankers if they’d wanted to include it, but not this time
No the opener was another Bomber beauty, ‘Low On Gas’, a cracking blues bopper, followed by the title track of the latest, well endowed ten inch record, ‘Danger Road’ which has an opening riff that puts us in mind of the Moonlighters ‘Broken Heart’ and a drum beat akin to Dale Hawkins’ rockers. The theme to Peaky Blinders, Nick Cave’s ‘Red Right Hand’ got the Bombers treatment, before the pace slowed a little with the ballad ‘I’ve Changed My Mind’.
There’s new recordings on the way, it was announced by Dave, and they showcased one, a powerful guitar driven instrumental called ‘Grease Monkey’, which also has a thumping bass rhythm. Oh yeah readers, it’s a good un.
From the very newest, to a fifties track the Bombers recorded on their first record, Bob Denton’s ‘Playboy’, before a Landon Filer original ‘Stand Up and Fight’ and ‘Roger Over and Out’ concluded a quality first set.
More pretty darn cool tracks from the decks followed before the lads were back for more of the same, the reverbed, ‘Ready To Rumble’ opening up with the kick-a*se ‘Love Substitute’ rattling along next. An original track from the latest release, Volker Houghton’s ‘Victims of Love’, and with the composer in the audience, it was natural the Bombers cajoled him into performing the song. Good one, given there was no rehearsal!
Another Bombers staple, from 1956 (ie just after five to eight!!) ‘Whole Lotta Rosie’, whose measurements get bigger every gig it seems. Liking the sound of the two newest tracks in the second set, but I don’t have the titles…. Two standards finished off, ‘Jungle Rock’ and ‘Rockabilly Man’, before two deserved encores ‘I’m Coming Home’ and ‘Secret Love’ topped of another memorable Bombers’ show. The final gig of 2019 at Letchworth went with a bang, two DJs on fine form and a band that rocked the house. And there’s plenty more to come in 2020.
Gallery below, click on the images for full size pic
Unusually, it was a Friday night for Domino’s, although a decent headcount showed up, to see the settled trio line up of the Bombers. That being Dave Brown on lead guitar and vocals, Landon Filer on bass and drummer Paul Saunders. So following some cool sounds from the decks, the lads took the stage, unusually without the siren, and the traditional ‘Bombs Away’. Judging by the assembled crowd near the stage, I’m sure there were ample handle crankers if they’d wanted to include it, but not this time
No the opener was another Bomber beauty, ‘Low On Gas’, a cracking blues bopper, followed by the title track of the latest, well endowed ten inch record, ‘Danger Road’ which has an opening riff that puts us in mind of the Moonlighters ‘Broken Heart’ and a drum beat akin to Dale Hawkins’ rockers. The theme to Peaky Blinders, Nick Cave’s ‘Red Right Hand’ got the Bombers treatment, before the pace slowed a little with the ballad ‘I’ve Changed My Mind’.
There’s new recordings on the way, it was announced by Dave, and they showcased one, a powerful guitar driven instrumental called ‘Grease Monkey’, which also has a thumping bass rhythm. Oh yeah readers, it’s a good un.
From the very newest, to a fifties track the Bombers recorded on their first record, Bob Denton’s ‘Playboy’, before a Landon Filer original ‘Stand Up and Fight’ and ‘Roger Over and Out’ concluded a quality first set.
More pretty darn cool tracks from the decks followed before the lads were back for more of the same, the reverbed, ‘Ready To Rumble’ opening up with the kick-a*se ‘Love Substitute’ rattling along next. An original track from the latest release, Volker Houghton’s ‘Victims of Love’, and with the composer in the audience, it was natural the Bombers cajoled him into performing the song. Good one, given there was no rehearsal!
Another Bombers staple, from 1956 (ie just after five to eight!!) ‘Whole Lotta Rosie’, whose measurements get bigger every gig it seems. Liking the sound of the two newest tracks in the second set, but I don’t have the titles…. Two standards finished off, ‘Jungle Rock’ and ‘Rockabilly Man’, before two deserved encores ‘I’m Coming Home’ and ‘Secret Love’ topped of another memorable Bombers’ show. The final gig of 2019 at Letchworth went with a bang, two DJs on fine form and a band that rocked the house. And there’s plenty more to come in 2020.
Gallery below, click on the images for full size pic
The boys are back in town. Can it really have been twelve months since the last event at the Starfighter Rock n Roll Club at Wreningham’s Village Hall in deepest Norfolk. Well, yes it has been, and clearly a lot of the locals had missed it, as they filled the place up nicely, despite loads of the roads in the area still under water from the recent deluges.
Two bands on show here, the venerable Rusti Steel and the Star Tones from the Midlands, and making a welcome return to the club, Mischief! from Utrecht, Holland. On the decks, Rockin Roland, with a new set of speakers, half the size of many I’ve come across, but by jiminy they deliver a ballsy sound. Another night of cool tunes from the decks for the dancers.
Rusti, in his red velvet shirt took to the stage with a slightly different, but familiar (if you get my drift) look to the Star Tones. Stewart Dale on bass, check, Andy Meadows (long suffering fellow Miami Dolphins fan) on drums, check, and making a return to the fold on piano, and occasionally rhythm guitar, Rusti’s son Gene.
There are gimmies at a Rusti Steel show, variety of songs and a boundless enthusiasm on stage, coupled with spot on musicianship, and it’s consistent throughout. Starting with Glenn Honeycutt’s ‘All Night Rock, and Thumper Jones’ ‘How Come It’, Rusti was clearly in the finest form. The set rocked out to Gene Wyatt’s ‘Lover Boy’ and a rattling good version of ‘I’m Coming Home’. Really enjoyed their take on Shorty Long’s ‘Nine Little Kisses’ too.
Song after song vied for attention, switching from ‘Rebound’ to their own composition ‘Prisoner of Your Charms’ and the tweaked ‘Lindy Lou’, made into ‘Rachael Roo’, for Rusti’s wife. A switch in principle instrument for the next few tracks, brought a really welcome surprise.
‘Ah quit honkin that horn’ he said, as the steel guitar mimicked the sound, heralding the arrival of ‘Traffic Jam’. I’ll be honest readers, I didn’t know this one, but it’s a real treat from the Embassy Sessions, recorded in a period between the Tin Tax and the Star Tones. Hit it up on the internet folks, and enjoy, Rusti sounds like Pee Wee King at his best. (post script, I must’ve heard it before, as looking it up, we were at a gig where they played it!!)
Nodding to the afore mentioned Pee Wee King, covers of ‘Ballroom Baby’ and ‘Catty Town’ featured, along with Bill Haley’s ‘Real Rock Drive’. Naturally there was an encore with the title track of a CD nigh on ten years old now, ‘Gone wit’ Wind’ as he calls it. Excellent.
Gallery images, click on them for full sized images
Two bands on show here, the venerable Rusti Steel and the Star Tones from the Midlands, and making a welcome return to the club, Mischief! from Utrecht, Holland. On the decks, Rockin Roland, with a new set of speakers, half the size of many I’ve come across, but by jiminy they deliver a ballsy sound. Another night of cool tunes from the decks for the dancers.
Rusti, in his red velvet shirt took to the stage with a slightly different, but familiar (if you get my drift) look to the Star Tones. Stewart Dale on bass, check, Andy Meadows (long suffering fellow Miami Dolphins fan) on drums, check, and making a return to the fold on piano, and occasionally rhythm guitar, Rusti’s son Gene.
There are gimmies at a Rusti Steel show, variety of songs and a boundless enthusiasm on stage, coupled with spot on musicianship, and it’s consistent throughout. Starting with Glenn Honeycutt’s ‘All Night Rock, and Thumper Jones’ ‘How Come It’, Rusti was clearly in the finest form. The set rocked out to Gene Wyatt’s ‘Lover Boy’ and a rattling good version of ‘I’m Coming Home’. Really enjoyed their take on Shorty Long’s ‘Nine Little Kisses’ too.
Song after song vied for attention, switching from ‘Rebound’ to their own composition ‘Prisoner of Your Charms’ and the tweaked ‘Lindy Lou’, made into ‘Rachael Roo’, for Rusti’s wife. A switch in principle instrument for the next few tracks, brought a really welcome surprise.
‘Ah quit honkin that horn’ he said, as the steel guitar mimicked the sound, heralding the arrival of ‘Traffic Jam’. I’ll be honest readers, I didn’t know this one, but it’s a real treat from the Embassy Sessions, recorded in a period between the Tin Tax and the Star Tones. Hit it up on the internet folks, and enjoy, Rusti sounds like Pee Wee King at his best. (post script, I must’ve heard it before, as looking it up, we were at a gig where they played it!!)
Nodding to the afore mentioned Pee Wee King, covers of ‘Ballroom Baby’ and ‘Catty Town’ featured, along with Bill Haley’s ‘Real Rock Drive’. Naturally there was an encore with the title track of a CD nigh on ten years old now, ‘Gone wit’ Wind’ as he calls it. Excellent.
Gallery images, click on them for full sized images
Folk got some serious moves in between bands, while the lads from the Netherlands set up. Mischief! (yes, the exclamation mark is correct) are Patrick van der Erf on bass, his brother Daze on lead guitar and Richard Verhule on drums. Vocals are mainly performed by the two brothers, either individually or as harmony. There’s something about the way brothers (or close relatives) can harmonise vocally, and these lads are up there with the best. Testament to that was the opening track, their own ‘Sweet Lovin’ Kind’, before Daze took sole vocals on Keith Courvale’s kicking rocker, ‘Trapped Love’.
It’s not only the vocal part of the show, it’s also visual too, with Daze bouncing about the stage while somehow getting spot on riffs from his guitar. As you will read in the interview below, one of the lads’ favourite songs was up next, ‘Hey Mae’, respectfully close to the Rusty and Doug original. Similarly, and with a change of pace, Don and Dewey’s ‘I’m Leaving it all Up To You’ from 1957. Just sublime, even though for people of our vintage, there’s a thought process that brings you round to Donny and Marie!
‘Grow Up’, now there’s a song that you have to hear readers, if only for the laugh out loud lyrics, while ‘Heartaches by the Number’ hit the high spots with more two part harmonies, as did a cracking version of the Everly Brothers’ ‘This Little Girl of Mine’. We’re getting to the end of the show now, and the quality kept right on coming, with ‘Mean Little Mama’ and ‘Blues Stop Knocking at my Door’. With the encores a gimmie, I in particular, was dead pleased to hear ‘Hello Blues’, which is my fave track by the trio.
We weren’t done there though, with Rusti Steel and the Star Tones joining them on stage and ripping out some party tunes, like ‘Run Run Rudolph’, being in keeping with the season at the time. What a great night in Norfolk to end 2019 for us.
Gallery images, click on them for full sized pic
It’s not only the vocal part of the show, it’s also visual too, with Daze bouncing about the stage while somehow getting spot on riffs from his guitar. As you will read in the interview below, one of the lads’ favourite songs was up next, ‘Hey Mae’, respectfully close to the Rusty and Doug original. Similarly, and with a change of pace, Don and Dewey’s ‘I’m Leaving it all Up To You’ from 1957. Just sublime, even though for people of our vintage, there’s a thought process that brings you round to Donny and Marie!
‘Grow Up’, now there’s a song that you have to hear readers, if only for the laugh out loud lyrics, while ‘Heartaches by the Number’ hit the high spots with more two part harmonies, as did a cracking version of the Everly Brothers’ ‘This Little Girl of Mine’. We’re getting to the end of the show now, and the quality kept right on coming, with ‘Mean Little Mama’ and ‘Blues Stop Knocking at my Door’. With the encores a gimmie, I in particular, was dead pleased to hear ‘Hello Blues’, which is my fave track by the trio.
We weren’t done there though, with Rusti Steel and the Star Tones joining them on stage and ripping out some party tunes, like ‘Run Run Rudolph’, being in keeping with the season at the time. What a great night in Norfolk to end 2019 for us.
Gallery images, click on them for full sized pic
Cambo-daddy-o. First gig in 2020, and a venue we hadn’t visited in many a long year, Hiams Rock n Roll Club in Prickwillow, Cambridgeshire. This is the county where if you want to have a baby girl, drive up and down their roads a few times as they’ll shake the spheres off anything! The band that drew us to the club, were the Ramshackle Daddies, with Steph the Professor on sounds.
It’s a decent sized club with a sizeable dancefloor, with some spring to it, in a social club that has been in being since the 60’s, and is situated about four miles from the cathedral city of Ely.
Steph played some good stuff, a chunk of the set contained R&B classics and dancefloor winners, and anyone who plays Linda Hayes ‘You Ain’t Movin’ Me’ gets a gold star
Missing from the band this evening was Steve Merry, who has been unwell for a while now, and we both wish him well. The ‘Daddies took the stage and ripped into a brace of Carl Perkins numbers, ‘True Love’ and ‘Gone, Gone, Gone’, with ‘Movie Magg’ and ‘Dixie Fried’ featuring later in the set. They are a band that can switch between styles, from classic rockers like ‘Double Talkin’ Baby’ and ‘One Hand Loose’, with cool numbers like ‘Purr Kitty Purr’ and Don Deal’s ‘Don’t Push’ nudging the ears.
The second set started much in the same way as the first with a Carl Perkins cracker, ‘Honey Cause I Love You’. This set had a bit more variation than the first with Johnny Horton’s ‘Cherokee Boogie’, Lloyd Price’s ‘Lawdy Miss Clawdy’ and Johnny Burnette’s ‘Eager Beaver Baby’. All well received by the crowd, as were the polar opposites ‘Ice Cold’ and the Cues ‘Why’. Even local legend Lee Hugman stepped in for a go on drums.
A really good night of music out in the ‘tonks of Cambs
Gallery images, click on them for full sized pic
It’s a decent sized club with a sizeable dancefloor, with some spring to it, in a social club that has been in being since the 60’s, and is situated about four miles from the cathedral city of Ely.
Steph played some good stuff, a chunk of the set contained R&B classics and dancefloor winners, and anyone who plays Linda Hayes ‘You Ain’t Movin’ Me’ gets a gold star
Missing from the band this evening was Steve Merry, who has been unwell for a while now, and we both wish him well. The ‘Daddies took the stage and ripped into a brace of Carl Perkins numbers, ‘True Love’ and ‘Gone, Gone, Gone’, with ‘Movie Magg’ and ‘Dixie Fried’ featuring later in the set. They are a band that can switch between styles, from classic rockers like ‘Double Talkin’ Baby’ and ‘One Hand Loose’, with cool numbers like ‘Purr Kitty Purr’ and Don Deal’s ‘Don’t Push’ nudging the ears.
The second set started much in the same way as the first with a Carl Perkins cracker, ‘Honey Cause I Love You’. This set had a bit more variation than the first with Johnny Horton’s ‘Cherokee Boogie’, Lloyd Price’s ‘Lawdy Miss Clawdy’ and Johnny Burnette’s ‘Eager Beaver Baby’. All well received by the crowd, as were the polar opposites ‘Ice Cold’ and the Cues ‘Why’. Even local legend Lee Hugman stepped in for a go on drums.
A really good night of music out in the ‘tonks of Cambs
Gallery images, click on them for full sized pic
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cd reviews
FTM In the Groove Part 4 – CD review
For those regular readers, who wonder why there’s always a FTM record in this section, well that’s because there’s a continuous stream of class recordings coming from that label. And that is sustained in the latest CD In The Groove Part 4.
We open once again with a Dick Dale track, this one’s ‘Surf Beat’, that is both an LP version and X-Rated. How can an instrumental be ‘X-Rated’? Well, it includes another nod to Pulp Fiction, with Samuel L Jackson’s ‘Say what again!’ scene, indeed that’s one of the images on the cover. Powerful stuff to start with.
As with much of the FTM output, there’s always nuggets he’s mined from bands that had fairly short lived careers or minimal chart success, so they fly under many people’s radars. Such is the case with Jeannie and the Big Guys’ ‘Boys!’ a pacey rocker from 1963 which was a ‘B’ side on the Piccadilly label. ‘Slow Down’, yep that one, written and recorded by Larry Williams on Specialty in ’57. This version is by the Seeburg Spotlight Band, and immediately has the feel of a mid-sixties vibe, so it was no surprise when we learned it was from ’66.
Also from the mid 60’s comes the Cherokees’ ‘That’s If You Want Me To’, an up-tempo dance floor winner from the combo hailing from New Zealand, on the Australian label GO!! You’ve had ‘Tequila’ and ‘Margarita’, now have some ‘Bacardi’ by Ralph Marterie. He was an Italian band leader, and this instrumental was a zippy ‘B’ side to the 1961 release ‘The Shuck’, which if it hasn’t already, will find it’s way onto a DJ stroll list near you.
The late, great Brian Matthew, for so long a feature on Radio 2 on a Saturday morning for Sounds of the Sixties, until his passing in 2017, introduces the next track, Johnny Kidd and the Pirates’ ‘Please Don’t Touch’ and the rarely heard instrumental version to boot. The Chants (think Mickey Lee Lane was a member of this group at one time) are up next with their tribute to the comic strip cartoon detective, Dick Tracy, originally from 1961.
Buddy Wayne’s ‘Agent 007 Dance’ is another track about which we knew nothing, other than it has a stroll timbre from ’65, and it’s not half bad readers. Jackie Shane, was an R&B and soul singer who only passed away last year. He had a Sam Cooke sounding delivery and that’s apparent on this ’63 cut, ‘In My Tenement’. I must admit readers, that I’m not sure what the music genre ‘Popcorn’ is, but researching Jimmy Clanton’s ‘Cindy’ from ’63 on Ave, I’m guessing that is it….
There can’t be many who go to rockin’ gigs, that don’t know Jay Swan’s ‘You Don’t Love Me’, but here’s a wrinkle for you. Tommy Rae’s version of it from ’64 is a completely different tempo, relying on the electric organ for the melody. Juke Boy Bonner takes on a blues classic, the Willie Dixon penned ‘Down in the Bottom’. It takes something for us not to immediately compare any version to that of Howlin’ Wolf, but this one is a good ‘un. ‘Shake ‘em on Down’ anyone??
R. L. Burnside’s ‘Jumper on the Line’, is an outstanding track with an infectious, foot stomping beat. Here, it’s reprised by the Flatliners, using the distorted vocals sound to a similar beat. More kick a*se beats next with the Skincrawlers ‘You’re a True Fine Love’, about which I know nothing other than it’s a top bopper of a tune, that’s a new single.
The Gants, were a band from Mississippi in the mid-60’s, and ‘Smoke Rings’ is one of their ‘A’ sides from 1966. Time for some class from the 1950’s next with Eddie Cochran’s ‘Jeanie Jeanie Jeanie’, although this is one of his instrumentals, with the FTM added twist, which you’d expect. You’d automatically think of Eddie on the next track, but ‘Nervous Breakdown’ is from 1962 and Bobby Fuller (as in ‘I Fought The Law’). Not the most played version of this song, but a good one nonetheless.
Some classic jive to switch gears, with Vince Riccio’s multiple naming Marie, Michele, Nanette, ‘I Still Love You All’ from 1961. Marty Balin is up next with ‘I Specialize in Love’ (yes with a ‘z’). Balin was one of the formative forces behind Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship, and this represents some earlier work on Challenge from 1962. Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers weigh in next with ‘Need Your Loving Tonight’ a classic sixties sound from the middle of that decade.
How many versions of Richard Berry’s ‘Have Love Will Travel’ have you heard readers? Well here’s another, from, get this, 2003, by rockers, the Black Keys. It’s a very electrified reworking readers. More from the pen of Richard Berry on the next track, with ‘Louie Louie’ performed by the Rhythm & Blues Inc, who were a Merseybeat band from Southport. Booker T and the MGs, ok, if you’re like us, you automatically think of ‘Green Onions’. The resident band at Stax Records, released a bunch of singles in the 60’s, and ‘Big Train’ from ’63, has that ‘onions’ feel to it.
Helen Shaprio, was performing at age fourteen when she had her first hit ‘Don’t Treat Me Like a Child’, which was the precursor to two number ones. Here, FTM resurrects one of her later chart singles ‘Fever’, which peaked at No.38 in 1964. Billy Duke presents another crossover track, in the shape of ‘Millionaire’, while the finale is left to Trini Lopez. So often DJs opt for ‘Sinner no a Saint’ which has been done-to-death in some clubs. So it’s refreshing to hear ‘Where Can My Baby Be’, which is every bit the club stroller that ‘Sinner’ is.
Yes folks, this is another heterogeneous and varied selection of tunes from yesteryear, the stamp of the FTM label and Mark Phillips, who also designed the artwork, did the mixing and mastering, and probably washed up afterwards. There’s no dip in the quality of the selections, folks. Certainly another one you should add to the collection
For those regular readers, who wonder why there’s always a FTM record in this section, well that’s because there’s a continuous stream of class recordings coming from that label. And that is sustained in the latest CD In The Groove Part 4.
We open once again with a Dick Dale track, this one’s ‘Surf Beat’, that is both an LP version and X-Rated. How can an instrumental be ‘X-Rated’? Well, it includes another nod to Pulp Fiction, with Samuel L Jackson’s ‘Say what again!’ scene, indeed that’s one of the images on the cover. Powerful stuff to start with.
As with much of the FTM output, there’s always nuggets he’s mined from bands that had fairly short lived careers or minimal chart success, so they fly under many people’s radars. Such is the case with Jeannie and the Big Guys’ ‘Boys!’ a pacey rocker from 1963 which was a ‘B’ side on the Piccadilly label. ‘Slow Down’, yep that one, written and recorded by Larry Williams on Specialty in ’57. This version is by the Seeburg Spotlight Band, and immediately has the feel of a mid-sixties vibe, so it was no surprise when we learned it was from ’66.
Also from the mid 60’s comes the Cherokees’ ‘That’s If You Want Me To’, an up-tempo dance floor winner from the combo hailing from New Zealand, on the Australian label GO!! You’ve had ‘Tequila’ and ‘Margarita’, now have some ‘Bacardi’ by Ralph Marterie. He was an Italian band leader, and this instrumental was a zippy ‘B’ side to the 1961 release ‘The Shuck’, which if it hasn’t already, will find it’s way onto a DJ stroll list near you.
The late, great Brian Matthew, for so long a feature on Radio 2 on a Saturday morning for Sounds of the Sixties, until his passing in 2017, introduces the next track, Johnny Kidd and the Pirates’ ‘Please Don’t Touch’ and the rarely heard instrumental version to boot. The Chants (think Mickey Lee Lane was a member of this group at one time) are up next with their tribute to the comic strip cartoon detective, Dick Tracy, originally from 1961.
Buddy Wayne’s ‘Agent 007 Dance’ is another track about which we knew nothing, other than it has a stroll timbre from ’65, and it’s not half bad readers. Jackie Shane, was an R&B and soul singer who only passed away last year. He had a Sam Cooke sounding delivery and that’s apparent on this ’63 cut, ‘In My Tenement’. I must admit readers, that I’m not sure what the music genre ‘Popcorn’ is, but researching Jimmy Clanton’s ‘Cindy’ from ’63 on Ave, I’m guessing that is it….
There can’t be many who go to rockin’ gigs, that don’t know Jay Swan’s ‘You Don’t Love Me’, but here’s a wrinkle for you. Tommy Rae’s version of it from ’64 is a completely different tempo, relying on the electric organ for the melody. Juke Boy Bonner takes on a blues classic, the Willie Dixon penned ‘Down in the Bottom’. It takes something for us not to immediately compare any version to that of Howlin’ Wolf, but this one is a good ‘un. ‘Shake ‘em on Down’ anyone??
R. L. Burnside’s ‘Jumper on the Line’, is an outstanding track with an infectious, foot stomping beat. Here, it’s reprised by the Flatliners, using the distorted vocals sound to a similar beat. More kick a*se beats next with the Skincrawlers ‘You’re a True Fine Love’, about which I know nothing other than it’s a top bopper of a tune, that’s a new single.
The Gants, were a band from Mississippi in the mid-60’s, and ‘Smoke Rings’ is one of their ‘A’ sides from 1966. Time for some class from the 1950’s next with Eddie Cochran’s ‘Jeanie Jeanie Jeanie’, although this is one of his instrumentals, with the FTM added twist, which you’d expect. You’d automatically think of Eddie on the next track, but ‘Nervous Breakdown’ is from 1962 and Bobby Fuller (as in ‘I Fought The Law’). Not the most played version of this song, but a good one nonetheless.
Some classic jive to switch gears, with Vince Riccio’s multiple naming Marie, Michele, Nanette, ‘I Still Love You All’ from 1961. Marty Balin is up next with ‘I Specialize in Love’ (yes with a ‘z’). Balin was one of the formative forces behind Jefferson Airplane and Jefferson Starship, and this represents some earlier work on Challenge from 1962. Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers weigh in next with ‘Need Your Loving Tonight’ a classic sixties sound from the middle of that decade.
How many versions of Richard Berry’s ‘Have Love Will Travel’ have you heard readers? Well here’s another, from, get this, 2003, by rockers, the Black Keys. It’s a very electrified reworking readers. More from the pen of Richard Berry on the next track, with ‘Louie Louie’ performed by the Rhythm & Blues Inc, who were a Merseybeat band from Southport. Booker T and the MGs, ok, if you’re like us, you automatically think of ‘Green Onions’. The resident band at Stax Records, released a bunch of singles in the 60’s, and ‘Big Train’ from ’63, has that ‘onions’ feel to it.
Helen Shaprio, was performing at age fourteen when she had her first hit ‘Don’t Treat Me Like a Child’, which was the precursor to two number ones. Here, FTM resurrects one of her later chart singles ‘Fever’, which peaked at No.38 in 1964. Billy Duke presents another crossover track, in the shape of ‘Millionaire’, while the finale is left to Trini Lopez. So often DJs opt for ‘Sinner no a Saint’ which has been done-to-death in some clubs. So it’s refreshing to hear ‘Where Can My Baby Be’, which is every bit the club stroller that ‘Sinner’ is.
Yes folks, this is another heterogeneous and varied selection of tunes from yesteryear, the stamp of the FTM label and Mark Phillips, who also designed the artwork, did the mixing and mastering, and probably washed up afterwards. There’s no dip in the quality of the selections, folks. Certainly another one you should add to the collection
Cookin’ Jack Fats and the Chimney Stacks – Demo CD
It was a Viva Chez Vegas a few years ago that Cookin Jack Fats and the Saucepans made their impressive debut. From there, they kind of dropped off our radar until Rhythm Riot 2019. Here, Shane Bhayat, passed us this demo CD, containing six tracks, for review.
The name has slightly changed, from Saucepans to Chimney Stacks, and indeed the personnel in the band. They are John Jackson on vocals, with J.D. England lead guitar, Dave Kopke on upright bass, with Guy Turner alternating between sax and piano and drummer Andrew Flude.
To the songs, and they open with a standard, sure fire way to fill a dancefloor, Jay Swann’s ‘You Don’t Love Me’. Track two is a cover of Willie J Charles’ R&B stroller, the soulful ‘Feelin’ Kinda Lonesome’, which he co wrote with Lionel Hampton, whose orchestra originally provided backing. This has that tempo of Little Willie John’s ‘I’m Shakin’, and is a really cool vibe.
Charlie Rich’s ‘Midnight Blues’ is next, one of today’s most played strollers at events, and again this is a pretty cool version. Slightly from left field, ‘Here Comes That Feeling’ that readers might recall, by Brenda Lee. Retaining the original timbre, which is a mid tempo jiver, this version works really well.
J.D. England is on the finest form on Bo Diddley’s ‘Pretty Thing’, with the ‘shave and a haircut two bits’ riff, heavily reverbed on guitar. Mention too for Guy Turner’s sax mimicking the vocals too. Round the CD off is a cover of Roscoe Gordon’s ‘Surely (I Love You’, another instantly recognisable track from the club scene, well presented here.
Listening to this track list, sometimes you forget that there are on four instrumentalists in the band, so full is the sound. A really solid debut
It was a Viva Chez Vegas a few years ago that Cookin Jack Fats and the Saucepans made their impressive debut. From there, they kind of dropped off our radar until Rhythm Riot 2019. Here, Shane Bhayat, passed us this demo CD, containing six tracks, for review.
The name has slightly changed, from Saucepans to Chimney Stacks, and indeed the personnel in the band. They are John Jackson on vocals, with J.D. England lead guitar, Dave Kopke on upright bass, with Guy Turner alternating between sax and piano and drummer Andrew Flude.
To the songs, and they open with a standard, sure fire way to fill a dancefloor, Jay Swann’s ‘You Don’t Love Me’. Track two is a cover of Willie J Charles’ R&B stroller, the soulful ‘Feelin’ Kinda Lonesome’, which he co wrote with Lionel Hampton, whose orchestra originally provided backing. This has that tempo of Little Willie John’s ‘I’m Shakin’, and is a really cool vibe.
Charlie Rich’s ‘Midnight Blues’ is next, one of today’s most played strollers at events, and again this is a pretty cool version. Slightly from left field, ‘Here Comes That Feeling’ that readers might recall, by Brenda Lee. Retaining the original timbre, which is a mid tempo jiver, this version works really well.
J.D. England is on the finest form on Bo Diddley’s ‘Pretty Thing’, with the ‘shave and a haircut two bits’ riff, heavily reverbed on guitar. Mention too for Guy Turner’s sax mimicking the vocals too. Round the CD off is a cover of Roscoe Gordon’s ‘Surely (I Love You’, another instantly recognisable track from the club scene, well presented here.
Listening to this track list, sometimes you forget that there are on four instrumentalists in the band, so full is the sound. A really solid debut
The Belascos – CD review
The beauty with producing this magazine is that we get sent records and recorded material by bands that we’ve not encountered before. And that can be very rewarding, as was the case when the Belascos got in touch about their CD release at the back end of 2019. Rather than rush a review out for last month, we, like you will, wanted to savour the aural experience.
The Belascos are three half brothers, Jim, Joe and JR, that are English, Dutch and French, and all go by the surname ‘Belasco’, as do a couple of co-contributors on the CD. Here they present twelve varied sounding tunes, containing a couple of covers, and a bunch of their own compositions, one of which opens the CD, ‘Hang You Head’. The sound is driven along by rhythm guitar and double bass, (only two tracks include drums) and some super sounding guitar solos.
The intriguingly titled ‘The Daglan Monkey Man’ follows, with it’s ‘What’cha Gonna Do’ rhythm. Daglan, is a medieval town in the Ceou Valley of the Dordogne in France, and this relates a curious tale of a semi mythical creature and a massive banana moonshine production. Was it a dream? Was it reality? You decide. Picking up the tempo is ‘Please Mr Spock’, a rattling good romp about the Enterprise’s half Vulcan, half Human first officer, or is it….
The first of the covers, is a really well presented take on Bo Diddley’s ’62 ‘B’ side on Checker Records, ‘I Can Tell’, or if you are more familiar, Johnny Kidd’s HMV rocker. That’s followed by a catchy tune ‘Dead and Gone’ for a rather sad theme, with various stars’ demises recounted, and you will go a long way before you hear William Shakespeare, Harpo Marx and Gene Rodenberry in the same rockin’ song again!
Another original, well crafted song, lyrically and musically, ‘The Darkest Night’ is next, before a cover of Carl Perkins’ ‘Look at That Moon’ originally from 1957 on Sun Records. Going even further back for another cover now, ‘’Don’t You Lie To Me’. This was originally by Hudson Whittaker, known as Tampa Red, who wrote and recorded the song in 1940, as a guitar and piano based blues track, and a curious kazoo sound in the instrumental break. The song became a blues standard and has been recorded by a whole host of artists, Junior Wells, Fats Domino and Chuck Berry for example. This version by the Belascos, swapped a couple of the verses around, and uses the combination of bass and rhythm guitar to set the tempo and some deft blues guitar work over it. Really effective.
Next up, ‘The Story of Rip Belasco Part 1’, an account of this fellow’s formative career a travelling illusionist, and the loves he encountered on the way, sword twirling and fire eating. I wonder what ‘part 2’ of the story will bring! I could imagine Johnny Cash having sung this. Similarly, ‘I Never Got Over Hank Williams’, would have suited the man in black, lyrically and vocally. Indeed. he gets a mention in this love lament.
There’s some cracking lead guitar work on an out and out Rockabilly number ‘Drinking and Lying’, before the finale, an instrumental titled ‘The Belascos Theme’. Two things about this tune. Firstly it has a feel of the Ventures about it, which is ace in itself, but at just 1.22 duration, a track of this quality needs to be longer, so I just put it on loop for a while 😊.
We were not familiar with the Belascos up until late November last year, and this recording has been a delight. Well chosen covers, well written songs, and a mighty fine delivery. Do yourself a favour readers, and get acquainted yourselves.
The beauty with producing this magazine is that we get sent records and recorded material by bands that we’ve not encountered before. And that can be very rewarding, as was the case when the Belascos got in touch about their CD release at the back end of 2019. Rather than rush a review out for last month, we, like you will, wanted to savour the aural experience.
The Belascos are three half brothers, Jim, Joe and JR, that are English, Dutch and French, and all go by the surname ‘Belasco’, as do a couple of co-contributors on the CD. Here they present twelve varied sounding tunes, containing a couple of covers, and a bunch of their own compositions, one of which opens the CD, ‘Hang You Head’. The sound is driven along by rhythm guitar and double bass, (only two tracks include drums) and some super sounding guitar solos.
The intriguingly titled ‘The Daglan Monkey Man’ follows, with it’s ‘What’cha Gonna Do’ rhythm. Daglan, is a medieval town in the Ceou Valley of the Dordogne in France, and this relates a curious tale of a semi mythical creature and a massive banana moonshine production. Was it a dream? Was it reality? You decide. Picking up the tempo is ‘Please Mr Spock’, a rattling good romp about the Enterprise’s half Vulcan, half Human first officer, or is it….
The first of the covers, is a really well presented take on Bo Diddley’s ’62 ‘B’ side on Checker Records, ‘I Can Tell’, or if you are more familiar, Johnny Kidd’s HMV rocker. That’s followed by a catchy tune ‘Dead and Gone’ for a rather sad theme, with various stars’ demises recounted, and you will go a long way before you hear William Shakespeare, Harpo Marx and Gene Rodenberry in the same rockin’ song again!
Another original, well crafted song, lyrically and musically, ‘The Darkest Night’ is next, before a cover of Carl Perkins’ ‘Look at That Moon’ originally from 1957 on Sun Records. Going even further back for another cover now, ‘’Don’t You Lie To Me’. This was originally by Hudson Whittaker, known as Tampa Red, who wrote and recorded the song in 1940, as a guitar and piano based blues track, and a curious kazoo sound in the instrumental break. The song became a blues standard and has been recorded by a whole host of artists, Junior Wells, Fats Domino and Chuck Berry for example. This version by the Belascos, swapped a couple of the verses around, and uses the combination of bass and rhythm guitar to set the tempo and some deft blues guitar work over it. Really effective.
Next up, ‘The Story of Rip Belasco Part 1’, an account of this fellow’s formative career a travelling illusionist, and the loves he encountered on the way, sword twirling and fire eating. I wonder what ‘part 2’ of the story will bring! I could imagine Johnny Cash having sung this. Similarly, ‘I Never Got Over Hank Williams’, would have suited the man in black, lyrically and vocally. Indeed. he gets a mention in this love lament.
There’s some cracking lead guitar work on an out and out Rockabilly number ‘Drinking and Lying’, before the finale, an instrumental titled ‘The Belascos Theme’. Two things about this tune. Firstly it has a feel of the Ventures about it, which is ace in itself, but at just 1.22 duration, a track of this quality needs to be longer, so I just put it on loop for a while 😊.
We were not familiar with the Belascos up until late November last year, and this recording has been a delight. Well chosen covers, well written songs, and a mighty fine delivery. Do yourself a favour readers, and get acquainted yourselves.
Dasta Gomes and the Smokin’ Snakes – Get Wild or Get Gone
CD Review
Wild Records have an impressive roster of acts and artists, talented musicians and
songwriters. From Natal in the north east of Brazil, comes Dasta Gomes and the Smokin’ Snakes, a super cool five piece band with an ace Rockabilly sound. They are Dasta Gomes, the band’s lead singer, rhythm guitarist and songwriter, Ramis Al Bud on lead guitar, Bruno "Ollie B." Oliveira, guitar, Renata "Lil' Feather" Soares keeping rhythm on upright bass and drummer Felipe "Phil Fields" Viana.
The style is rooted in the authentic 50’s style of Rockabilly with the distinctive Wild Records sound, immediately apparent in the first few bars of ‘You Hurt Me So’, and the haunting opening vocals of ‘Miss Tay’, a two minute bop beat sound about the girl of his dreams. Those two opening tracks are band originals, by Al Bud and Dasta respectively. Al Casey’s ‘If I Told You’ originally from 1955, gets a cool reworking with Alex Valenzi featuring, on a version that has a slightly fuller sound than the original.
Three more original tracks follow, a mid tempo rocker ‘Bouquet of Roses’, with a catchy rhythmic drum beat and a slightly softer sound to the lead guitar. ‘Ain’t Gonna Beg You No More’ is as classic a Rockabilly sound as you are likely to hear, with the hiccupping vocal style and Grady Martin sounding guitar style. Similarly, ‘King of the Bop’ could well be Dasta’s theme tune, as it’s a well structured and raw sounding bopper (unsurprisingly 😊).
A classic slice of British Rock n Roll follows with their cover of ‘Turn My Back On You’, from Billy Fury’s classic 1960 ‘Sound Of Fury’ album, which was written by Fury under the pseudonym Wilbur Wilberforce. The Smokin’ Snakes here, present a fine version, with reverence to the original style and delivery. Another Dasta original follows, with ‘In a Town’, a slightly slower pace and tempo, adding light and shade to the playlist, as ‘On The Hardwood Floor’ ratchets it up again with a ‘call and answer’ rocker.
A triple treat of covers follows, with Mac Curtis’ ‘How Long Will It Take’, Dave Dudley’s RCA delight from 1959 ‘Where There’s a Will There’s a Way’ and Jimmie Patton’s alliteratively titled ‘Okie’s in the Pokie’. All these remain close to the originals, but with just that added nuance from the band. Not sure who to credit with the piano on ‘Okie’, but it offsets the guitar perfectly, and also features Alex Valenzi for a second time.
Two original compositions close out the release, the first being a thumping bass ticking driven rocker, with raw sounding lead guitar ‘Rockin’ Wild’. Last but by no means least, the title track ‘Get Wild or Get Gone’, a Dasta and Al Bud collaboration that has the exceptional quality that by track fourteen you’d kind of come to expect from the band. Super stuff.
There’s a certain eminence you get from Wild Records recording artists, and this debut from Dasta and the Smokin’ Snakes is a classy example. The blend of new songs and the inclusion of classic Rockabilly tunes, is well thought out and exceptionally well showcased. Pop it in the ‘play loud and often’ category
CD Review
Wild Records have an impressive roster of acts and artists, talented musicians and
songwriters. From Natal in the north east of Brazil, comes Dasta Gomes and the Smokin’ Snakes, a super cool five piece band with an ace Rockabilly sound. They are Dasta Gomes, the band’s lead singer, rhythm guitarist and songwriter, Ramis Al Bud on lead guitar, Bruno "Ollie B." Oliveira, guitar, Renata "Lil' Feather" Soares keeping rhythm on upright bass and drummer Felipe "Phil Fields" Viana.
The style is rooted in the authentic 50’s style of Rockabilly with the distinctive Wild Records sound, immediately apparent in the first few bars of ‘You Hurt Me So’, and the haunting opening vocals of ‘Miss Tay’, a two minute bop beat sound about the girl of his dreams. Those two opening tracks are band originals, by Al Bud and Dasta respectively. Al Casey’s ‘If I Told You’ originally from 1955, gets a cool reworking with Alex Valenzi featuring, on a version that has a slightly fuller sound than the original.
Three more original tracks follow, a mid tempo rocker ‘Bouquet of Roses’, with a catchy rhythmic drum beat and a slightly softer sound to the lead guitar. ‘Ain’t Gonna Beg You No More’ is as classic a Rockabilly sound as you are likely to hear, with the hiccupping vocal style and Grady Martin sounding guitar style. Similarly, ‘King of the Bop’ could well be Dasta’s theme tune, as it’s a well structured and raw sounding bopper (unsurprisingly 😊).
A classic slice of British Rock n Roll follows with their cover of ‘Turn My Back On You’, from Billy Fury’s classic 1960 ‘Sound Of Fury’ album, which was written by Fury under the pseudonym Wilbur Wilberforce. The Smokin’ Snakes here, present a fine version, with reverence to the original style and delivery. Another Dasta original follows, with ‘In a Town’, a slightly slower pace and tempo, adding light and shade to the playlist, as ‘On The Hardwood Floor’ ratchets it up again with a ‘call and answer’ rocker.
A triple treat of covers follows, with Mac Curtis’ ‘How Long Will It Take’, Dave Dudley’s RCA delight from 1959 ‘Where There’s a Will There’s a Way’ and Jimmie Patton’s alliteratively titled ‘Okie’s in the Pokie’. All these remain close to the originals, but with just that added nuance from the band. Not sure who to credit with the piano on ‘Okie’, but it offsets the guitar perfectly, and also features Alex Valenzi for a second time.
Two original compositions close out the release, the first being a thumping bass ticking driven rocker, with raw sounding lead guitar ‘Rockin’ Wild’. Last but by no means least, the title track ‘Get Wild or Get Gone’, a Dasta and Al Bud collaboration that has the exceptional quality that by track fourteen you’d kind of come to expect from the band. Super stuff.
There’s a certain eminence you get from Wild Records recording artists, and this debut from Dasta and the Smokin’ Snakes is a classy example. The blend of new songs and the inclusion of classic Rockabilly tunes, is well thought out and exceptionally well showcased. Pop it in the ‘play loud and often’ category
Racketeer Radio will be launched Jan. 1st 2020. Beginning then Racketeer Radio will be playing the best music and programs from the golden age along with the best radio shows of today, featuring music inspired from the sounds of the 1930s-1960s. Programs of true crime, noir, Hollywoodland, Gangsters, Vintage Lifestlye and so much more. Connecting you with todays favorite bands their news, tours, and updates. Sharing with you the best vintage inspired brands, events, news and everything in between. Racketeer Radio is your central station for the vintage life style, the Nostalgic Culture.
keep up to date before the launch www.RacketeerRadio.com www.instagram.com/Racketeer_Radio |
vinyl reviews
Deviline – Carlos and the Bandidos
Towards the back end of 2019, I think there was a collective appreciation that the title track of this 45rpm was finally out on a single. Carlos and the Bandidos have their own style of Mexican tinged rocking sound and for many years now. Migraine Records are responsible for this release, which has been limited to five hundred, hand numbered copies.
‘Deviline’ is an original track written by Ricky Cooper (Bones Bandido) and has been a classic stroll sound on dance floors for a considerable time, with Carlos Mejuta’s vocal delivery, perfect for the lyrics and timbre. It was also on the ‘Bandido a-Go-Go’ CD of 2008.
The ‘B’ side is a cover of a Conway Twitty penned tune, ‘Don’t Go Too Far’, that appeared on the ‘For a Few Dollars Less’ album from 1999. It is a super cool cover that is close to the original, and the perfect companion for the ‘A’ side.
At the time of writing we are unsure of how many copies of this 45 are still available, such was the massive interest in it’s release. That’s how good it is!
Towards the back end of 2019, I think there was a collective appreciation that the title track of this 45rpm was finally out on a single. Carlos and the Bandidos have their own style of Mexican tinged rocking sound and for many years now. Migraine Records are responsible for this release, which has been limited to five hundred, hand numbered copies.
‘Deviline’ is an original track written by Ricky Cooper (Bones Bandido) and has been a classic stroll sound on dance floors for a considerable time, with Carlos Mejuta’s vocal delivery, perfect for the lyrics and timbre. It was also on the ‘Bandido a-Go-Go’ CD of 2008.
The ‘B’ side is a cover of a Conway Twitty penned tune, ‘Don’t Go Too Far’, that appeared on the ‘For a Few Dollars Less’ album from 1999. It is a super cool cover that is close to the original, and the perfect companion for the ‘A’ side.
At the time of writing we are unsure of how many copies of this 45 are still available, such was the massive interest in it’s release. That’s how good it is!
Who Knocks on My Door – Jake Calypso & His Red Hot
Highly charged, energetic powerpack, Jake Calypso, has delighted fans around the globe with his enthusiastic and frantic stage shows. Behind the zany and at first glance, nuttiness, of Jake Calypso is a gifted musician and songwriter, Herve Loison. Here he, along with the band, Red Hot, release a new 45rpm on Migraine Records with two original songs.
The ‘A’ side, also the title track if you will ‘Who Knocks On My Door’ has the classic Jake Calypso sound, with Herve’s vocal inflections to the fore, offset with Christophe Gillet’s excellent guitar work complementing it. A pacey and up-tempo rocker that Jake fans will love as much as the likes of ‘My Baby Rocks’ and ‘Call Me’, it’s that good.
The flip is a complete change of style, ‘Seeking a Partner’, more of a country styled ramble, that has a super early Sun-like sound. A bit more restrained than many Jake Calypso tracks, but hugely effective nonetheless. An excellent single folks
Highly charged, energetic powerpack, Jake Calypso, has delighted fans around the globe with his enthusiastic and frantic stage shows. Behind the zany and at first glance, nuttiness, of Jake Calypso is a gifted musician and songwriter, Herve Loison. Here he, along with the band, Red Hot, release a new 45rpm on Migraine Records with two original songs.
The ‘A’ side, also the title track if you will ‘Who Knocks On My Door’ has the classic Jake Calypso sound, with Herve’s vocal inflections to the fore, offset with Christophe Gillet’s excellent guitar work complementing it. A pacey and up-tempo rocker that Jake fans will love as much as the likes of ‘My Baby Rocks’ and ‘Call Me’, it’s that good.
The flip is a complete change of style, ‘Seeking a Partner’, more of a country styled ramble, that has a super early Sun-like sound. A bit more restrained than many Jake Calypso tracks, but hugely effective nonetheless. An excellent single folks
Your hosts for Hemsby nowadays are Bill Guntrip and his family. Following May’s event, Bill has announced a super line up for 2020. And indeed has a ‘save the date’ for 16th to 19th October 2020. In the meantime, check out the website for further details, and get booking, it’s going to be a good one.
Word is that there has been a lot of repeat bookings from this May, and in the regenerated camp site and new ownership, has reinforced the fact that the longest running Rock n Roll Weekender, is still going strong |
Your host for the Rockabilly Rave, is Jerry Chatabox. Next year, 2020, marks the 24th year of Europe’s, if not the world’s premier Rockabilly Festival. Next year sees for one event only, the Bellfuries, lead singer Joey Simeone pictured below will be performing at. Yes readers, they are reforming just for the Rockabilly Rave.
This is the finished article folks, and what a line up it is, bands making their debuts and others making welcome returns. Keep checking back readers for more information
This is the finished article folks, and what a line up it is, bands making their debuts and others making welcome returns. Keep checking back readers for more information
interview with Mischief!
Interview with Mischief!
BJR. Mischief!, for those of you who don’t know, are Richard, and two brothers, Pat and Daze, from Utrecht in the Netherlands. They have been one of the top trios on the Rock n Roll circuit for many years now, delighting crowds wherever they play. We’ve been fans of them for a number of years and wanted those of you who don’t know them as well, to see what makes them tick.
Now we know where the brothers met(!), but how did Richard meet up with them
Mis. Patrick: How do you know where Daze and I met?????? And for the rest answer below!!!!!!
Mis. Richard did meet the brothers in the early 80’s at the Rockin’ Ball House, Utrecht.
A youth club which was turned into a rock ‘n roll bar. There we had loads of bands and DJ nights as well. Almost every leading band of that period we had playing there.
BJR. How and when, did you all get into 50’s Rock n Roll?
Mis. Richard: for me it started with Elvis as a child. I was 9 when I actually bought my first Elvis record “Flamin’ Star” soundtrack of that movie. I was impressed by the wildest track on there “Tiger Man”, from there on i looked into more of that kind of music and did get into all the classics, Carl Perkins, Chuck Berry, Little Richard etc.
Mis. Patrick: I could say Daze his answer probably!!!! But my parents listened to rock and roll and county and western music. So we grew up with the it.
Mis. Daze: Yep, Patrick answered the question! And we were in our teens in the late 70s, early 80s, right in the middle of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival.
BJR. Do you recall the process of the band forming and how did you all come to play the instruments you do?
Mis. Richard: One day the brothers came up to me and they did ask me to play the drums. We knew each other already for years so the connection was there already. As a child I was in a marching band and so I knew already how to hold the drumsticks and lay down a roll. But drumming is completely different and I had to make it my own. I had 1 lesson but the guy didn’t do what I asked too, so I stopped. So I had to teach my own by listening to records.
Mis. Patrick: For the most part Richard’s answer. And why I started playing bass is because there was a guitar player and there was a drummer so…..
Mis. Daze: As I recall, Patrick and me were inspired by watching Rock ‘n’ Roll / Rockabilly bands, and decided to form a band ourselves. I bought a cheap guitar and Patrick bought a cheap bass with a broken head. The bass was fixed by our father. Patrick still plays it! We all thought ourselves how to play the instruments.
BJR. Mischief!, for those of you who don’t know, are Richard, and two brothers, Pat and Daze, from Utrecht in the Netherlands. They have been one of the top trios on the Rock n Roll circuit for many years now, delighting crowds wherever they play. We’ve been fans of them for a number of years and wanted those of you who don’t know them as well, to see what makes them tick.
Now we know where the brothers met(!), but how did Richard meet up with them
Mis. Patrick: How do you know where Daze and I met?????? And for the rest answer below!!!!!!
Mis. Richard did meet the brothers in the early 80’s at the Rockin’ Ball House, Utrecht.
A youth club which was turned into a rock ‘n roll bar. There we had loads of bands and DJ nights as well. Almost every leading band of that period we had playing there.
BJR. How and when, did you all get into 50’s Rock n Roll?
Mis. Richard: for me it started with Elvis as a child. I was 9 when I actually bought my first Elvis record “Flamin’ Star” soundtrack of that movie. I was impressed by the wildest track on there “Tiger Man”, from there on i looked into more of that kind of music and did get into all the classics, Carl Perkins, Chuck Berry, Little Richard etc.
Mis. Patrick: I could say Daze his answer probably!!!! But my parents listened to rock and roll and county and western music. So we grew up with the it.
Mis. Daze: Yep, Patrick answered the question! And we were in our teens in the late 70s, early 80s, right in the middle of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Revival.
BJR. Do you recall the process of the band forming and how did you all come to play the instruments you do?
Mis. Richard: One day the brothers came up to me and they did ask me to play the drums. We knew each other already for years so the connection was there already. As a child I was in a marching band and so I knew already how to hold the drumsticks and lay down a roll. But drumming is completely different and I had to make it my own. I had 1 lesson but the guy didn’t do what I asked too, so I stopped. So I had to teach my own by listening to records.
Mis. Patrick: For the most part Richard’s answer. And why I started playing bass is because there was a guitar player and there was a drummer so…..
Mis. Daze: As I recall, Patrick and me were inspired by watching Rock ‘n’ Roll / Rockabilly bands, and decided to form a band ourselves. I bought a cheap guitar and Patrick bought a cheap bass with a broken head. The bass was fixed by our father. Patrick still plays it! We all thought ourselves how to play the instruments.
BJR. Who inspires you musically (original 50’s or today’s artists)
Mis. Richard: For me, I love almost everything. Got no one in particular that influenced me the most
Mis. Patrick: Nobody in particular. There are a lot of great songs made back then by a lot of great artists.
Mis. Daze: Every artist has his own beautiful thing, whether it’s instrumental, the voice or the performance on stage. Like everybody, I also pick out the things I like. So there is something everywhere! And I’m always inspired by Patrick and Richard!
BJR. What was your first gig?
Mis. Richard: ?
Mis. Patrick: A long time ago.
Mis. Daze: Wow…………………?
BJR. What’s the largest crowd you have played to?
Mis. Richard: I think that is an openining show for the Brian Setzer Orchestra at the Heineken Music Hall (now Afas Live), Amsterdam. Should be around 6000 people in it. It was a sold out night. It also can be one of the outdoor aldayers, i cannot see the count in numbers of people in it.
Mis. Patrick: I don’t know!
Mis. Daze: I’m not sure. In Richards answer we played in a major big hall. In 2007 we played at the Super rally. I guess this is the biggest festival for Harley Davidson fanatics. At this festival are somewhere between 20.000 – 30.000 visitors.
BJR. Is there a particular song that always makes the Mischief play list? Do each of you have your own ‘must do’ track?
Mis. Richard: Hey Mae is likely to be on every play list i think. I like most of our self penned songs but there has to be a good mix in it with strong originals. There must be something for everybody in it.
Mis. Patrick: There are a couple of songs that are most of the time on the list. The reason why is because we like to mingle after our show and so you hear what people like to hear. We like to give something for everybody. People pleasers maybe??
Mis. Daze: I think everybody has the one song he likes more than the other. But every song in our setlist(s) is a song we like. The list is formed by us 3. If one doesn’t like the song, it’s NOT on the list!
BJR. You write your own material as well, in English. How did you all learn English?
Mis. In the Netherlands we always do see movies in their original languages with dutch subtitles. And in school ofcourse. I learned the most by visiting all the weekenders in the UK, there you must do it.
Mis. Patrick: Richard’s and Daze’s answer.
Mis.: Daze: Richard’s and Patrick’s answer.
BJR. So when you start to write a song, do you start with the melody or the words?
Mis. Patrick: Could be both. But for me most of the time it start with a melody.
Mis. Daze: Yep could be both. The song “Hotwheels” started with a guitar solo!
BJR. Any new recordings coming soon?
Mis. Should be
Mis. Patrick: Must be……. Should be………..Hope so………..
Mis. Daze: Somewhere between now and the future.
BJR. What are your contact details, for promoters who would like to book you for an event?
Mis. Website: (out of date) www.mischief.nl
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mischief.nl
Whatsapp / Telephone: +31(0)627090504
Mis. Patrick: Nowadays it is most of the time via Facebook
BJR. Many thanks guys
Mis. Richard: For me, I love almost everything. Got no one in particular that influenced me the most
Mis. Patrick: Nobody in particular. There are a lot of great songs made back then by a lot of great artists.
Mis. Daze: Every artist has his own beautiful thing, whether it’s instrumental, the voice or the performance on stage. Like everybody, I also pick out the things I like. So there is something everywhere! And I’m always inspired by Patrick and Richard!
BJR. What was your first gig?
Mis. Richard: ?
Mis. Patrick: A long time ago.
Mis. Daze: Wow…………………?
BJR. What’s the largest crowd you have played to?
Mis. Richard: I think that is an openining show for the Brian Setzer Orchestra at the Heineken Music Hall (now Afas Live), Amsterdam. Should be around 6000 people in it. It was a sold out night. It also can be one of the outdoor aldayers, i cannot see the count in numbers of people in it.
Mis. Patrick: I don’t know!
Mis. Daze: I’m not sure. In Richards answer we played in a major big hall. In 2007 we played at the Super rally. I guess this is the biggest festival for Harley Davidson fanatics. At this festival are somewhere between 20.000 – 30.000 visitors.
BJR. Is there a particular song that always makes the Mischief play list? Do each of you have your own ‘must do’ track?
Mis. Richard: Hey Mae is likely to be on every play list i think. I like most of our self penned songs but there has to be a good mix in it with strong originals. There must be something for everybody in it.
Mis. Patrick: There are a couple of songs that are most of the time on the list. The reason why is because we like to mingle after our show and so you hear what people like to hear. We like to give something for everybody. People pleasers maybe??
Mis. Daze: I think everybody has the one song he likes more than the other. But every song in our setlist(s) is a song we like. The list is formed by us 3. If one doesn’t like the song, it’s NOT on the list!
BJR. You write your own material as well, in English. How did you all learn English?
Mis. In the Netherlands we always do see movies in their original languages with dutch subtitles. And in school ofcourse. I learned the most by visiting all the weekenders in the UK, there you must do it.
Mis. Patrick: Richard’s and Daze’s answer.
Mis.: Daze: Richard’s and Patrick’s answer.
BJR. So when you start to write a song, do you start with the melody or the words?
Mis. Patrick: Could be both. But for me most of the time it start with a melody.
Mis. Daze: Yep could be both. The song “Hotwheels” started with a guitar solo!
BJR. Any new recordings coming soon?
Mis. Should be
Mis. Patrick: Must be……. Should be………..Hope so………..
Mis. Daze: Somewhere between now and the future.
BJR. What are your contact details, for promoters who would like to book you for an event?
Mis. Website: (out of date) www.mischief.nl
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mischief.nl
Whatsapp / Telephone: +31(0)627090504
Mis. Patrick: Nowadays it is most of the time via Facebook
BJR. Many thanks guys
Festival feature
Welcome to this section of our magazine where each month we will preview an upcoming event from one of our advertisers. We start with the Southport Rumble and in future issues, we will be featuring Hot Rock n Boogie, Hemsby, The Rockabilly Rave and the Rhythm Riot and others.
We also intend to do the same with clubs that advertise with us, so if you want to be involved, please get in touch using the contact details at the end of the magazine.
Southport Rumble preview
March 2019 saw the inaugural Southport Rumble take place, to great acclaim and enthusiasm from those who attended. This is run by Kevin Greener and Tracy Hobbs who were also the head honchos of the Rock Ridge events in the North East.
Last year’s Southport event was the first such weekender we had attended in the North West of the UK, with the Merseyside town’s Pontins site, hosting. You can still read about that one in our weekenders section of this website, just click on the menu and scroll down
For this year, the organisers have pushed the boat out that little bit further for us all, bringing in acts from Europe, as well as some hot, home grown ones. Here are a few to whet your appetite.
The enigmatic and super talented guitarist Sonny West, headlines. Here’s a performer who writes his own material, plays Blues and Rockabilly at will, and always presents a colourful and energetic show.
From Italy, come the Same Old Shoes. This was a band we first saw at the Rockabilly Rave, and they were extremely impressive, with their authentic sound, sharp look and animated stage presence.
From Sweden, comes Mary Ann and the Hi-Flyin’ Combo. Now here’s a lady you don’t want to miss. Originally from Estonia, Mary Ann can switch from a Hank Williams styled ballad, to rocking out in a Wanda Jackson fashion.
The charismatic Mons Wheeler will also be making the trip across the Irish Sea, meeting up with his band, the Tone Kings. You’ve read about Mons’ shows before in these pages, he has a super smooth vocal delivery the band is en pointe
The Go Getters, who needs introducing to the Peter Sandberg sound? You are guaranteed a loud and proud show with these guys.
Finally, for this feature, Bamboozle, home grown talent from Kent. Mixing up their own material with classics, the Bass Pixie, Serena Sykes, shares vocals with guitarist Jim Knowler, in a set that will have pace, pinch and a good balance (pun intended). Those featured are pictured in the gallery below, click on the images for full sized pics
Welcome to this section of our magazine where each month we will preview an upcoming event from one of our advertisers. We start with the Southport Rumble and in future issues, we will be featuring Hot Rock n Boogie, Hemsby, The Rockabilly Rave and the Rhythm Riot and others.
We also intend to do the same with clubs that advertise with us, so if you want to be involved, please get in touch using the contact details at the end of the magazine.
Southport Rumble preview
March 2019 saw the inaugural Southport Rumble take place, to great acclaim and enthusiasm from those who attended. This is run by Kevin Greener and Tracy Hobbs who were also the head honchos of the Rock Ridge events in the North East.
Last year’s Southport event was the first such weekender we had attended in the North West of the UK, with the Merseyside town’s Pontins site, hosting. You can still read about that one in our weekenders section of this website, just click on the menu and scroll down
For this year, the organisers have pushed the boat out that little bit further for us all, bringing in acts from Europe, as well as some hot, home grown ones. Here are a few to whet your appetite.
The enigmatic and super talented guitarist Sonny West, headlines. Here’s a performer who writes his own material, plays Blues and Rockabilly at will, and always presents a colourful and energetic show.
From Italy, come the Same Old Shoes. This was a band we first saw at the Rockabilly Rave, and they were extremely impressive, with their authentic sound, sharp look and animated stage presence.
From Sweden, comes Mary Ann and the Hi-Flyin’ Combo. Now here’s a lady you don’t want to miss. Originally from Estonia, Mary Ann can switch from a Hank Williams styled ballad, to rocking out in a Wanda Jackson fashion.
The charismatic Mons Wheeler will also be making the trip across the Irish Sea, meeting up with his band, the Tone Kings. You’ve read about Mons’ shows before in these pages, he has a super smooth vocal delivery the band is en pointe
The Go Getters, who needs introducing to the Peter Sandberg sound? You are guaranteed a loud and proud show with these guys.
Finally, for this feature, Bamboozle, home grown talent from Kent. Mixing up their own material with classics, the Bass Pixie, Serena Sykes, shares vocals with guitarist Jim Knowler, in a set that will have pace, pinch and a good balance (pun intended). Those featured are pictured in the gallery below, click on the images for full sized pics
To keep this magazine free for you to read, we rely on advertising and donations. If you would like to donate, please use the button below. Many thanks
Notice to advertisers:- The advertisers in this issue, have paid for their adverts, if you would like to run one with us, and have your event open to our 25,000 + viewers per month, drop us a line to [email protected] for details. If you have a company that makes and sells clothing or accessories, or you run a record label or shop, you can advertise with us as well. Anything associated with our music scene, or 1940’s, 1950’s related. We will include a brief article on your company and services as well with your advert. We will be emailing many of you in this regard too.
We want to keep this magazine free to read, so rely on advertisers and donations. If you like what you see, help us keep it free by popping us a donation using the button. Many thanks
Please note that all material on this website is (c) Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review. Please do not copy and paste articles or parts of articles to your websites without asking us first. Thank you for reading our online magazine. Comments, remarks, suggestions and yes, even gentle criticism, all welcome. We do not share links to adult sites here. Keep up to date with us here, or on our various platforms:-
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Cheers 'til next month
Andrew and June
Next month:- We have interviews planned with Rusti Steel and Frankie Riedel of the Honkabillies, one of which will be in the #7 issue. There will be reviews of Domino's Hawaiian night and Ray Collins Hot Club in Lincs. We have more CDs and vinyl from the FTM label to review, and much more
We want to keep this magazine free to read, so rely on advertisers and donations. If you like what you see, help us keep it free by popping us a donation using the button. Many thanks
Please note that all material on this website is (c) Andrew Smith, June Smith, The Bettajive Review. Please do not copy and paste articles or parts of articles to your websites without asking us first. Thank you for reading our online magazine. Comments, remarks, suggestions and yes, even gentle criticism, all welcome. We do not share links to adult sites here. Keep up to date with us here, or on our various platforms:-
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/The-Bettajive-Review-569161136474404/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bettajivereview/
Twitter https://twitter.com/AndrewBettajive
email [email protected]
Cheers 'til next month
Andrew and June
Next month:- We have interviews planned with Rusti Steel and Frankie Riedel of the Honkabillies, one of which will be in the #7 issue. There will be reviews of Domino's Hawaiian night and Ray Collins Hot Club in Lincs. We have more CDs and vinyl from the FTM label to review, and much more