This 4x LP box set by Time Life Records circa: 1978 titled, Great Men of Music, showcases 14 of Franz Liszt’s better known arrangements, including the three-part Faust Symphony. Time Life Records released a library of 4x LP box sets under the Great Men of Music umbrella, including collective works by Stravinsky, Schumann, Prokofiev, Bartok, and of course Brahms, at least, these are the ones we own. Obviously there are Beethoven and Mozart box sets to round out the gaggle, and each can be had for about $1 per record, or $4 per set, making these thorough compilations no-brainers for the casual classical consumer.
Yearly Archives: 2018
Gimme Gimme Gimme
The blazing insert to the 2008 comp album, Have Another Ball! (The Unearthed A-Sides Album) released by Bay Area goofballs Me First and the Gimme Gimmes depicts a lovely, mid-century paradisiacal oasis atop a jovial list of jukebox, Top 40 cover songs. A “greatest hits” album all but in name, Have Another Ball! contains pop-punk versions of such memorable tunes by Paul Simon, Daryl Hall, John Denver, Carole King, Billy Joel, Neil Diamond, and Elton John. Certainly an album to own for those loopy late nights. “A paradisiacal oasis, right at your fingertips.” Enjoy!
Virgo’s Fool
Originally titled Virgo’s Fool, Van Morrison’s fourth studio offering titled His Band and the Street Choir, brought with it Mr. Morrison’s most successful, solo single. No, it wasn’t Brown Eyed Girl (which is what I’d assumed it to be), but instead, the looming and luxurious Domino. This 12-track album clocks in at just under 42 minutes, and with everything Van the Man released through 1972 (with Saint Dominic’s Preview) is essential, lazy day listening material.
Random Two
Two 45s I never imagined spinning back to back. 1996’s California Dreamin’ by Japanese punks Hi-Standard followed by the live version of Mony Mony by Billy Idol from 1987. Playing the “random two” game is fun from time to time, especially when whiskey picks the records.
Back to Life, Back to Reality
Unsure how to start the new year, I’ll give a quick shout out to our trusty portable, the Numark PT-01 USB. If ever you’re looking for a rugged portable that plays 33 1/3s, 45s, and 78s, this is your machine. She runs on 6x D batteries, and if you’re serious, I suggest investing in EBL rechargeable batteries and the EBL Universal Charger. Well worth the money, on all accounts.
The Prudent Groove 