Post 551 - The Ormsby Brothers - The Ormsby Brothers LP

Following Post #549 I thought it only appropriate to put this LP on the Blog. The Ormsby Brothers only released one LP which won them the 1973 Easy Listening Vocal; Award by the Australian Federation of Commercial Broadcasters.  The latter part of the year was made up of T.V. and live appearances all over the country with the highlight being part of the first concert presented at the Sydney Opera House. The brothers were not contracted to a record company at the end of 1977; they had plans of putting together another album but are far as I can find out it never happen. I think it a bit strange that out of all my Australian books on Aussie music the only one that list The Ormsby Brother is Noel McGrath’s “Australian Encyclopaedia Of Rock. I have found this with a few bands/singers from time to time.  I can tell you this book now is in pieces I’ve used it so much and I’ve never found another to replace my battered version.  Here to download is there only LP from 1973 “The Ormsby Brothers” (EMC 2509) for EMI and produced by Peter Dawkins with arrangements by Mike Perjanik and engineered by John Taylor and Richard Lush. "UPDATE"
It’s always nice to get good feedback on the Blog and when it’s from an artist themselves it’s a real pleasure. Adrian Ormsby left some nice comments on the 2 posts of their material.   I recently received a detailed, personal email from him telling me so much more than any of the books. So if anyone is chasing particular details don't hesitate to contact me.

Post 550 - Tom - Tom - Legend Of The Phantom - Phantom

Very little is known about this single by “Tom –Tom”, in 1981 released this one and only single “Legend Of The Phantom” b/w “Phantom” (13127), also in 1981 released the same single under the name of Mr.Walker. The song was penned by Tom Moeller which I assume might be the singer on the record. It was also released on Tom – Tom Records. I’ve only seen this on EBay once and it went for big dollars. Thanks to Peter for lending me his single to post on the Blog.

Post 549 - The Ormbsy Brothers - Singles Collection

Neville, Michael and Adrian Ormsby were born in New Zealand and began singing as a group in 1967. In September of 1971 the boys moved to Australia. Prior to Christmas in 1972 they released their first single “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” b/w “The World Goes ‘Round & ‘Round” for H.M.V. Records. 1973 they released a cover of the Lesley Gore song “You Don’t Own Me” for EMI which became their only hit, making the top 10 in all states. They released a self-titled LP after the success of the single. They released six singles from ’71 to ’74 which only sold moderately and since 1975 they sang around the Sydney club circuit.   Here to download are all six singles with their B sides, a big thank you to Badger and his good friend Jason Johnstone who help me with the single “Bad Day For Love” which I didn’t even know about till I went to put this singles collection together...UPDATE Thanks to WoodyNet you can grab some great art work for this post here...Art 

Post 548 - The 4IP Good Guys - Please Daddy (Don’t Get Drunk This Christmas) - It Must Be Love This Time

Here’s another from the 4IP Christmas singles, this one from 1973 again with Geoff Mullins on lead vocals. Produced by Rocky Thomas for RCA Records “Please Daddy (Don’t Get Drunk This Christmas)” b/w “It Must Be Love This Time” (102379) is here for you to download. The A side written by John Denver,  Mullins also branched into record production, co-producing a small hit by another Brisbane DJ Graham “Robbo” Roberts in 1975, called “Havin’ a Barbie / Rock & Roll DJ” (which can be found at Post #492).  After his run in radio, Mullins transitioned into the TV news room as an anchor on Brisbane’s Channel 0 news. It appears that the annual Christmas song was released for the years 1971 through 1976, with DJ Paul J. Turner taking over the headline name from Geoff Mullins in 1974. “Jingle Bell Rock” was released for Christmas 1975 which had been previously used in 1971 (but whether they were re-recordings or simply the old songs re-issued is not clear).  Mullins had one other (non-Christmas) hit, attributable to Geoff Mullins & the Good Guys, with a release called “Cold of the Wind / Running Bear” in mid-1972 (peaked locally at #26). Again a big thank you to Badger for his help.   

Post 547 - Geoff Mullins with The Good Guys - Jingle Bell Rock - The Ringing Reindeer

 Geoff Mullins was a popular Good Guy DJ with Brisbane radio station 4IP (all 4IP DJs were known as Good Guys).  He was an influential member that helped forge 4IP’s ratings success through the early 1970s against bitter rival 4BC.  From Christmas 1971, the 4IP team released an annual Christmas song, which became a short-lived tradition over the next few years.  Geoff Mullins was the focus of these songs, and the main vocalist. Here to download is their first Christmas hit from 1971 “Jingle Bell Rock” b/w “The Ringing Reindeer” (101993) for RCA Records. The single was produced by Rocky Thomas and Brian Nicholls. “Jingle Bell Rock”, reached #1 on the 4IP chart.  Hopefully we may be able to track down the other Christmas singles the guys did in time. Thanks to Badger for the notes and record for this post made my job very easy. 

Post 546 - Various - Aussie Christmas 2011

Seeing the Christmas Season is upon us I thought I’d better dig out the Christmas music. In 2011 the Sunday Telegraph included this Christmas CD within its pages.  The eight tracks CD included Christmas songs from Anthony Callea, Human Nature, Hi-5, Olivia Newton-John &Vince Gill, Delta Goodrem, Guy Sebastian, Shannon Noll & Natalie Bassingthwaighte and Gondwana Voices & Sydney Children’s Choir. 

Post 545 - Australian Cast - Return To The Forbidden Planet LP

Return to the Forbidden Planet is a Jukebox musical by playwright Bob Carlton based on Shakespeare's The Tempest and the 1950s science fiction film Forbidden Planet (which itself drew its plot loosely from The Tempest). It was billed as Shakespeare's forgotten rock and roll masterpiece.  Captain Tempest and his fearless crew journey into hyperspace...and beyond! This winner of the 1990 Olivier Award for Best Musical bursts with rock and roll hits, including "Great Balls of Fire”, "Good Vibrations”, “Teenager in Love", "The Young Ones" and "The Monster Mash".  The Australian version of “Return To The Forbidden Planet” (TVD 93354) was recorded Live at the Theatre Royal in Sydney. Cast members were Rory O’Donoghue, D.J.Foster, Tony Harvey, Jacqui Hall, Glen Hogstrom, Jonathon Maher, Julie Mullins, Rodney Dobson, Elliott Wiolshier, Tina Harris, Tom Lycos and George Washingmachine. The LP was produced by David Jacobsen in 1991 for ATA Records. I ask Rory O’Donoghue what he remembered about the show and he said…”It was rather a forgettable time Garry and a very strange show. From memory I believe it was “Young Girl" I sang but not sure what else is on LP”.flac

Post 544 - Rick Pointon & Alan Windon With The Legendary Minmi Beach Band - I've Been Everywhere (Around Newcastle) - This Isn't A Comeback

Rick Pointon was formerly lead singer of Benny and the Jets who used to perform at the Star Hotel in Newcastle in the ‘70s. Pointon and musical partner Alan Windon had a crack at making a local rendition of the Lucky Starr classic "I've Been Everywhere". The song was released on Angelwood Records and charted in November 1981, in this version by Rick, he names all the places in the local Hunter Valley area where it was recorded. The single “I’ve Been Everywhere (Around Newcastle)” b/w “This Isn’t A Comeback” (13137), was recorded live in the Harry Scravvis Room Minmi Surf Club and mixed by Peter E. Sheedy at Angelwood Studios in 1981. Angelwood Records was based originally at Currabubula NSW Australia, just South West of Tamworth. First Issue on the label was “Bro Bill Rock” / “Getting Outta Time” by the band Angelwood. 

Post 543 - The Lovers - She Won't Call You -You're Late Home

A real mystery this band. All my Australian books on music only one says anything about the band and that is they only released one single in 1980 and they think they were a Sydney band with a question mark. The single “She Won’t Call You” b/w “You’re Late Home” (100153) on WEA Records was penned by Howard Minehan and Mike Davies which could have been band members but again nothing to state this anywhere. It was produced by Charles Fisher at Trafalgar Studios in Sydney. So like a few other posts on the Blog maybe someone out there knows more and will drop us a line.....UPDATE!..I got in contact with Howard Minehan and he told me "We were a Melbourne band but recorded the single in Sydney using session musicians although I played keyboards and Michael sang..we lived in Sydney for a year during the process and reformed the band back in Melbourne…crazy times..cheers"...Thanks Howard.

Post 542 - The Mal Green Sound - Follow Me - The Quando

Mal Green’s music path began in London UK, where from the age of 16, he started playing professionally. He collaborated, toured and recorded with countless groups and musicians including: The Honeycombs, The Love Affair, Octopus, The Chequers and Split Enz.When he was then invited to join Split Enz in 1976, they were based in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. They recorded and toured across Great Britain, Europe, America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand achieving international recognition with their hit singles and albums including “I Got You”, “I See Red”, and “History Never Repeats”… to name a few.  Albums he played on include Dizrythmia, Frenzy, True Colours and Corroboree/Waiate. In 1980, he released a solo single “Follow Me” b/w ”The Quando” with Mushroom Records. He wrote, arranged, produced and played all the instruments, with the exception of the bass guitar of Nigel Griggs and a few keyboard tracks from Eddie Rayner. Music was written by Mal Green and lyrics by Dave Osborne. Guest guitarist on ‘The Quando’ was none other than Red Symons. In 1981 he left Split Enz and Melbourne to base himself in Sydney. The diverse mix of fellow artists and groups with whom he recorded and toured from 1982 to 2008 include: James Blundell, Dave Warner, Dave Skinner (Roxy Music), Allan Caswell, Martin Cilia (The Atlantics), Steve Flack, The Hippos, The Henrys, Nigel Gavin, Rick Robinson, Chris Bailey, Steve Hunter, Peter Blakeley and Gumbo Fever. He has composed music for documentaries including National Geographic’s My Australia with Dick Smith. Mal designed and built GreenSoundMusic Studios with designer/builder Tony Stacey. Currently he is recording/engineering, producing and co-producing clients and composing music for documentaries and also playing drums on the occasional live gig.

Post 541 - Rod Kirkham - I Can't Get Sunday Out Of My Mind - I'm Talking To Myself Again

Rod began his professional life at the age of 10, appearing in a weekly musical entertainment television show in Melbourne, Australia, called "Brian and The Juniors", before being chosen as one of the six original members of the much loved, nationally televised variety show, "Young Talent Time”. He went on to become a "pop star" in his late teens, achieving a couple of "top 40" hits, and also hosted his own afternoon children's television show.  He appeared as a solo artist on most of Australia's television variety shows before joining a cabaret show band and extending his already extensive musical abilities into the area of arranging and producing. He then hosted a 13 week series of the television talent show, "Star Quest" and also guest-hosted a regional television variety show. After his marriage to Australian actress, Barbara Llewellyn, Rod opened his own singing school before moving into the advertising world and, in partnership with his talented wife, writing, arranging and producing some of Australia's most catchy jingles and promotional songs. In 1984 Rod and Barbara moved to Los Angeles and were very quickly signed to a music publishing contract, and continued to pitch their extensive range of talents to the music and films industries.  They returned to Australia in 1987 to begin their son's schooling and re-established their advertising music consultancy. Rod began his acting career in the popular night-time television soapie "The Box", where he met his future wife, Barbara.  Rod played the "bad boy" who after several months of "doing the dirty" eventually found that he could have a happier life being "a good man". Rod appeared with Barbara in several episodes of "Falcon Island", a children's television adventure series before he went on to co-host a ABC national radio series called about travel and music. While in Los Angeles, Rod entered the technology industry, selling high-end computer software into some of America's most powerful corporate and government establishments.  This exceptional experience paved the way for Rod to work at Microsoft Australia in both managerial and national marketing executive positions.  He went on to work as a corporate sales executive for Oracle Corporation and as a branch manager (of 30 staff) for a large Apple Computer reseller.  In the early 1990's, Rod launched a training consultancy and divided his time between facilitating computer software and human resource training courses for corporate clients, and co-hosting personal development seminars with Barbara. Today, the consultancy consists of a small team who focus on project management and database application software development for some of Australia's most successful companies. Here to download is Rod’s 1973 single for Image Records “I Can’t Get Sunday Out Of My Mind” b/w “I’m Talking To Myself Again” (IS-130). The single was produced by Peter Jones. 

Post 540 - Gino Cunico & Fugitive - Everytime I See Your Picture - Nothin's Like Nothin'

The Affair, a pop music group formed in 1966 as The Gino Affair were initially led by lead singer and former child actor, Gino Cunico, by mid-year Cunico left to join The Executives. After that he went on to release an LP with fellow Executive Ray Burton "Strive, Seek, Find" (which can be downloaded at post # 302). He also released a few singles and LP’s in the 70’s in the U.S. The single here for you to download “Everytime I See Your Picture” B/w Nothin’s Like Nothin’” (ZS-1206) is a single he recorded for Wizard Records in 1984 with Fugitive. I have no idea what or who Fugitive are and not much info on this single at all. It was produced by Robie Porter, so maybe someone out there might know more about this recording and will let us know.. 

Post 539 - Gulliver Smith - Such A Shame - Platonic Love - Woman Pie

Born Kevin Smith, Smith appeared as a child performer in Melbourne in the early 60s, covering golden oldies from the 50s. Eventually he left this scene to concentrate on his growing love of R&B and soul, with his band the Children in 1966. Dr Kandy’s Third Eye followed in 1967/8; in the vanguard of Sydney’s ‘flower-power’ psychedelic music period, their strange performances attracted Australian press attention. A series of short-lived, but interesting bands followed, but it was with Company Caine that his lyric writing became noticed and the band, despite poor media attention and no radio airplay, remains one of the great Australian cult bands of the 70s. Both their albums are now regarded as collector’s items. Smith’s solo album was well received, but it did not bring him a new audience. He moved back to Melbourne and led several more bands of variable quality which did not gather a following outside their small bohemian scene. Later Smith lived in the UK and New Zealand for many years, before returning to Australia in 1989. His song writing was noticed by John Farnham, who included one of his co-written songs with Ross Wilson “A Touch Of Paradise.” Here to download is one of Gulliver Smith’s single from 1973 a 3 track single on Reprise Records, “Such A Shame” b/w “Platonic Love” “Woman Pie” (RPA-14006).  The single was produced by Gus McNeil. Sadly we lost Gulliver to a long illness last week. 

Post 538 - Keith lamb – The City – Didyavagoodweekend

This is the second single recorded by Keith Lamb for Wizard Records. The first being “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” in 1977 (it can be found at Post #434), and this single from 1978 “The City” b/w “Didyavagoodweekend” (ZS-185). Both sides written by fellow Hush member Les Gock and Keith also the single was produced by Gock. 

Post 537 - Greedy's People - Greedy's People LP

Greedy's People the re-recording in full band mode of “Love Harmonica” and subsequent re-release of the album. This new version of the album from 1997 also on TWA, retitled “Greedy's People” (TWAD414), included a bonus recording of The Carpenters' Close to You and Nilsson’s Everybody’s Talking. The band included Paul Robert Burton, Charlie Cole, Tim Wedde, Antero Ceschin and special guest Michael Hawke on flute. The album was produced by Mark Thomas and Matt Lovell.

Post 536 - Greedy Smith - Love Harmonica LP

Greedy Smith is the pseudonym of Andrew McArthur Smith born on the 16th January 1956,in Sydney, who is a vocalist, keyboardist  and songwriter with Mental As Anything. Smith wrote many of their hit songs including "Live it Up" which peaked at No. 2 on the Australian singles chart. At college he met fellow students, Martin Murphy, Chris O'Doherty, David Twohill and Steve Coburn, whose band, Mental As Anything, had been playing art school parties and dances since May 1976. While playing harmonica in another band at the time, Smith started appearing on stage with Mental As Anything from around December. He was eventually cajoled fellow Mental As Anything members to learn keyboards on an old wedding reception organ to fill in their sound and he quit his other band. In 1982, Smith played with Twohill in a group called The Space Shuttle Ramblers that recorded an EP, however the tapes were destroyed in a studio flood prior to release. In 1992, during the Mental As Anything sabbatical he formed a side group called Greedy's on the Loose that played gigs and recorded however no product was released. In 1996 he recorded a solo album “Love Harmonica” (TWAD115) for TWA in his home studio; this led to live work with a band dubbed Greedy's People and the re-recording in full band mode and subsequent re-release of the album. This new version of the album also on TWA, retitled “Greedy's People”, included a bonus recording of The Carpenters' Close to You and Nilsson’s Everybody’s Talking. 

Post 535 - Carrl & Janie Myriad - Last Saturday (We Fell In Love Again) - I've Got My Heart Set On You

Obscure folk duo, Carrl & Janie Myriad were a popular husband & wife duo on the Melbourne circuit in the early 70's. Carrl & Janie went on to form one of our first country/folk bands, the self-named Myriad.  For a long time the band held a residency at the famed Station Hotel in Prahran, They released this single for Fable Records in 1970 “Last Saturday (We Fell In Love Again” b/w “I’ve Got My Heart Set On You” (FB-003). In 1972 they released their only LP “Of All The Wounded People”, released on Spin records.  Carrl & Janie separated & Janie reverted to her maiden name Janie Conway, helping to form, with Jane Clifton, another popular band of the late 70's, Stiletto. Janie is also the sister of Mic & Jim Conway of Captain Matchbox. I recently seen this single on EBay for $146.00 I think I paid about $3.00 for mine. 

Post 534 - Frieze - 1972 B.C.

Frieze was a curious side-track in the continuing careers of Beeb Birtles and Daryl Cotton, who came to fame as members of Zoot. After Zoot split in 1971 lead guitarist Rick Springfield launched his solo career and headed off the United States. Cotton and Birtles were approached through their management by a Melbourne advertising agency. One of the agency's national accounts was the clothing company, Frieze Brothers' Suits, who wanted to employ a pop group to help promote their products.  Beeb recalls "They wanted Darryl and me to form another group which they wanted to call Deep Frieze. The gimmick was that they wanted every guy in the band to be named after a type of material, meaning cloth material. So obviously Darryl Cotton was fine but they wanted me to call me Terry Lean and I was to have a brother called "Crimp" (as in Terylene and crimplene)."So we're sitting there thinking, hang on, we've already been through "Think Pink - Think ZOOT" and these guys are wanting us to do a similar, if not worse, thing. We promptly told them that to pursue this kind of idea; they would get laughed out of the country. Instead we talked them into doing a duo using just Darryl and myself and calling ourselves Frieze." With financial backing from Frieze, they bought a station wagon, a sound system and a tape recorder, which they used to provide pre-recorded backing for their shows and, of course, they were fitted out with a wardrobe of Frieze suits. They performed mostly in shopping malls, performing songs while male models showed off the latest Frieze suits. They played popular hits of the day including songs by Crosby, Stills & Nash and Young and they also did an Everly Brothers medley. During the latter stages of the group, they drafted in Brisbane band Burke & Wills as their backing group. Frieze lasted almost exactly one year, from June 1971 to June 1972. Their first single, a cover of Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil's "Feelings" ’71 (which can be found at post # 39) , came out on Robie Porter's Sparmac label and managed to scrape into the lower reaches of the Melbourne chart. They were then signed up by the newly established Australian division of Warner Brothers Records. Frieze recorded two singles for Warner which was released during 1972; Frieze's first single for Warner had Daryl's "Try Yourself" on the A-side, backed by one of Beeb's , "You and I". The third and last Frieze single featured two songs by Daryl “Why Do Little Kids Have To Die", backed by "Jimmie and Jessie".  The duo also recorded a full album, titled 1972 B.C. (WS 20006) here for you to download, It was produced by Brian Cadd; the LP did not feature Burke & Wills; the album line-up included several of the same musicians who had recently worked with Cadd on Russell Morris' acclaimed “Bloodstone” LP, Cadd on keyboards, with guitarist Phil Manning and bassist Barry "Big Goose" Sullivan, drummer Ray Arnott , session guitarist Charlie Gould and renowned jazz and session flautist/saxophonist Graham Lyell. By mid-1972 Birtles had grown tired of act and he told Cotton and manager Jeff Joseph that he was quitting, so the duo split; in July Cotton left for the USA. Meanwhile, Jean Gair offered Birtles a job answering phones at the AMBO office for $50 a week. It was there that he took the call that changed his life, he answered the phone one day and a voice said, "Yes, I was wondering if you could help me, I'm trying to get in touch with Beeb Birtles?" The voice belonged to musician Graeham Goble, formerly of Adelaide folk-rock group Allison Gros, who wanted Beeb to join his new band Mississippi. Beeb accepted, although Goble wanted him to play guitar rather than bass. The other members of Mississippi reportedly opposed this at first but Goble threatened that he would quit if Birtles wasn't hired. The rest is history. Birtles and Goble formed a successful musical partnership that endured through Mississippi and eventually led to worldwide success with Little River Band. A big thanks once again to Graham who weaved his magic making it possible to post this LP here on the Blog. 

Post 533 - Heart 'N' Soul - Hot Boogie Band LP

Heart'N'Soul started out as a dinner-suited club/cabaret band in Sydney in 1967 but it soon evolved into Australia's first -jazz-rock 'big band' and the first local group to perform what has become known as jazz-rock fusion. Like several other larger outfits of the period, they were strongly influenced by 60s soul acts on Motown, Stax and Atlantic, and probably also by the soul-jazz-rock excursions of American band Blood Sweat & Tears. The original line-up consisted of the Willington brothers, Phil Prideaux, Percy Ohrling, Rory Thomas, Graham Lewis and Leith Corbett. Among the noted musicians who passed through the ranks were Keith Barr, session stalwart Bobby Gebert (piano), Eric Cairns and Les Gough, jazz legends John Pochee and Bernie McGann, the late Larry Taylor (aka Larry Duryea) who later joined Tamam Shud and Arthur Eisenberg,  Keyboard player Peter Sheehan, who joined during 1970, had come from NZ band Freshwater, for whom he had co-written the A-side of their single "Satan" / "Satan's Woman", which was about the Charles Manson murders.  Heart’N’Soul by then renamed "The Heart'n'Soul Hot Boogie Band" -- was one of the first acts signed to Festival's new progressive label Infinity, which was launched in January 1971. When they recorded their “Hot Boogie Band” (SINL 934098) LP here for you to download, the group had expanded to twelve members, but sadly it had split by the time the album and its accompanying single "Hot Boogie Band" / "Earthrise" were released as part of Infinity's inaugural issue in January 1971. Thanks to Micko with the help with the art work.

Post 532 - Robin Jolley - Midnight Woman – Rock ‘N’ Roll Star

Robin Jolley started singing with the Melbourne group “Windy & Warm” whilst in his mid teens. Neville Kent discovered him and enticed him to come to Hobart where he got him off the ground as a solo singer. The next step was a record deal, in 1972 he returned to Melbourne in the search for one. Radio DJ Paul Konik introduced him to Brian Cadd  which presented him with a song called “Marshall’s Portable Music Machine” which Brian had co-written with Don Mudie. Cadd and Konik produced the single and it was snapped up by Fable Records. Robin released five singles and a EP and LP for Fable and three other singles. Here to download is his 1976 single for Festival Records “– Midnight Woman” b/w ‘Rock ‘N’ Roll Star” (J-6410). The single was produced by Larry Murray and John French. The A side was penned by New Seekers Marty Kristian with the B side written by Ian Mason from Kush. In May 1977, Jolley became a vocalist with Melbourne band the Echoes. 

Post 531 - The Mixtures - In The Summertime LP

In mid-1970 The Mixtures signed to a new Melbourne-based Fable Records. Its owner, industry veteran Ron Tudor, had made his name as a producer and A&R manager for the W&G and Astor labels. The Mixtures joined the Fable roster at a significant time. A few months before their first Fable single came out, the infamous 1970 Radio Ban came into force. The Mixtures were one of several Australian bands who successfully exploited this window of opportunity. Several acts including The Mixtures cut their own versions of proven British hits that were not being played in Australia because of the Radio Ban. Sydney band Autumn was another, scoring a major Sydney hit with their version of Christie's "Yellow River". When Tudor offered The Mixtures "In The Summertime", a song that had recently been a UK hit for Mungo Jerry. The band jumped at the chance to record it -- although Idris Jones declined to sing on it, feeling it was too 'poppy', so bassist Mick Flinn performed the lead vocal. Without any competition from the original, The Mixtures' version shot to #1 in August that year, at the height of the Radio Ban, and it stayed in the charts for 23 weeks. Happily they were able to capitalise on this good fortune with the follow-up, a similarly breezy, honky-tonk-style original, "The Pushbike Song", co-written by Idris Jones and his brother Evan. It was an even bigger success, providing them with back-to-back #1 singles, and charting for an impressive 25 weeks. Buoyed by the success of the singles, The Mixtures made the inevitable trip to England in January 1971. During this period they cut the tracks for their debut LP here for you to download, “In The Summertime” (FBSA-003), which was begun at Armstrong's Studios in Melbourne and finished at Morgan Studios in London. By the time they arrived in the UK there had been more line-up changes -- Idris Jones left again, replaced by Greg Cook (ex Cam-Pact), and Mick Holden briefly replaced departing drummer Gary Howard. 

Post 530 - Airport - Complete Singles

Keith Lamb lived for performing and was heartbroken when Hush split up. He enjoyed and produced some great work with bands “Larry”, the “Keith Lamb Band” and “Airport” but none had the commercial success of Hush. Here to download are the three singles by Airport “Short Skirts” b/w “Parlez-Vous” (K-8209) from 1981, “Sure Means Something” b/w “Peoples Rock ‘n’ Roll” (K-8492) also from 1981 and  “Gimme Rock ‘n’ Roll” b/w “In Love” (K-8694) From 1982. All recorded on Infinity Records. Members were Keith Lamb – vocals, Tony Harvey – guitars, Robin Jackson – bass and Brian Pitcher – drums.  Thanks to Hugh & Alan with help with this post.

Post 529 - Erl Dalby & Pyramid – Can’t Wait For September - Let Me Be Yours Until Tomorrow

Erl Dalby emerged out of Wollongong around 1969 in a group called Earl’s Court. The band recorded this Vanda & Young song as a single but split before it was released.  So Dalby came to Sydney to team up with Pyramid. The Earl’s Court tape was stripped down with only vocals and strings left then Pyramid re-recorded all the backing.  The finish product was then released by Erl Dalby & Pyramid and enjoyed reasonable success. In 1971 Erl left the group and recorded 3 solo singles under the guidance of Rory Thomas. Here to download is the 1970 single “Can’t Wait For September” b/w “Let Me Be Yours Until Tomorrow’ (DM 325) for Du Monde Records.  Sadly Erl passed away in 2011. 

Post 528 - Steve Ryder - Ain't It Nice - Remember Me

Ted Mulry first came to the attention of the music industry when he sent a demo of some of his own compositions to Albert Productions in Sydney. The company persuaded him to become a recording artist and he soon rose to fame as a solo singer/songwriter with his own composition, the pop ballad "Julia", which made the Australian charts in 1970. He followed that with "Falling in Love Again", a song by The Easybeats song writing team Harry Vanda & George Young, which was a major hit in 1971. He travelled to England in 1972 and recorded a single there under the name Steve Ryder but returned to Australia soon after. Here to download is that single Ted recorded under the name Steve Ryder “Ain’t It Nice” b/w “Remember Me” (10919 AT) for Blue Mountain Records. The single was produced by Ted Albert and Tony Geary . Thanks to Peter for this rare gem. 

Post 527 - Ronnie Burns - We Had A Good Thing Goin’ EP

Ronnie Burns released 8 EP’s for Spin Records between 1966/71. Here to download is his 4^th EP “We Had A Good Thing Goin’” (EX 11383). The title track is a cover of a Neil Sedaka song with Ronnie writing “Can’t You Feel” and the last track penned by the Bee Gees “Terrible Way You Treat Your Baby”.  

Post 526 - Jeanne Little - Dahling Are You Paying Attention? - Oceana Roll

Jeanne Little (born Jeanne Mitchell; 11 May 1938) is a Gold Logie-award winning Australian entertainer and TV personality. Little was born in Sydney. Little made her television debut on Network Ten's Mike Walsh Show in September 1974. Invited on as a guest showcasing designer maternity clothes, she quickly became a regular, eventually (after a stint at Channel Seven) moving with the Walsh Show to Channel Nine. The Seven Network had attempted two short-lived shows featuring Little's unique talents: Jeanne's Little Show and Cuckoo in the Nest, a situation comedy in which she played a wacky Auntie Mame-type character. As part of the Mike Walsh Show team again, Little wowed and won audiences for the next 15 years. She was a guest on the Midday with Ray Martin and her appearance on the BBC's Michael Parkinson variety show so startled London critics she had the London Evening News saying: "What a woman! With her in the house you wouldn't want a TV." Among the overseas guests she has appeared with are Phyllis Diller, George Burns and Danny La Rue. In 1976 Little won the Gold Logie for most popular television personality and has won two other Logies for her work on the Mike Walsh Show. She performed at the Royal Command Bicentennial Concert before the Prince and Princess of Wales. Her stage career took off with Jerry's Girls where American director John Frost teamed Jeanne with Marcia Hines, Debra Byrne and Judi Connelli. Then came Legends with Kerrie Biddell, Toni Lamond and Nancye Hayes at the Sydney Opera House.  Marlene, Little's one woman tribute to Marlene Dietrich toured Australia and the US to critical acclaim, followed by More of a Little, which was filled with songs and chat. In the late 90s through to the mid-2000s Little appeared on the panel discussion show Beauty and the Beast. Here to download is as far as I know the only single she released in 1976 “Dahling Are You Paying Attention” b/w “Oceana Roll” (2079 095) for Polydor Records. The single was produced by Silver Studs Lance Reynolds with Reynolds co-writing the A Side. In February 2011, it was announced Little was suffering from Alzheimer's Disease, first diagnosed in 2009 and is being cared for in a nursing home. In August 2014, family members advised that Little's illness had advanced to the stage that she "no longer knows where she is or what’s going on around her". 

Post 525 - Francis Butler - There Is no Escape LP

After the 69’s departed in 1976 Francis Butler released a solo religious album in 1978, “There Is No Escape” (RH-011), on independent label, Rhema, before travelling to the United States and becoming a religious minister. There doesn’t seem to be much info on him after he moved to the States that I can see.  Most of the songs on “There Is No Escape” follow a melodic rock style.  Songs such as ‘You Can Know For Sure’ and the title track have progressive and jazz-rock edges, including Yes like synthesizer arrangements.  ‘Hungry Man’ and the boogie rocker ‘Jesus Said’ both give an opportunity for Francis to get down with his harmonica, while ‘With Jesus’ provides a reflective acoustic ballad mood.  Some of that old jug-band background from the 69’s carries over into ‘My Melody’, ‘I’m Really Diggin’ His Music’ and ‘you’d like Me to Be like Everyone Else’, all of which feature Francis on lead kazoo.  The latter song makes use of that Rudy Vallee “megaphone” vocal style, as does the brief vaudeville ‘Some Little Bug’.  Opens and closes with short arty instrumentals called ‘Alpha’ and ‘Omega’ featuring electric guitar and spacey electronics.  Francis also plays acoustic and 12-string guitars. The LP was recorded in Airbourne Studios Brookvale Sydney. Musicians on the album are Grahame Wardrop, Randall Waller – guitars, Bill Grahame, Phil Truscott – bass, Steve Wyatt – keyboards, Chris Neale – moog, Barry Stewart, Jim Young – drums and Executive Producer was David Smallbone. A BIG! Thank you to Graham sorry for the 46 seconds of hell but well worth it in the end because I could not have posted this LP without your help. Like someone once said “The things we do for music” 

Post 524 - The Breakers - When I'm On T.V. - Lipstick And Leather

After OL’55 split, Jim Manzie and Geoff Peterkin had formed a more contemporary-sounding rock band by the name of The Breakers. Jarryl Wirth (guitar; ex-News, The Lonely Boys), Scott Douglas (rhythm guitar, vocals; ex-Class) and Martin Fisher (keyboards) completed the line-up. The Breakers were described as `heavy metal pop that combined Beach Boys vocals, Ramones guitar riffs and Buggles synthesisers'. From early on, the band was highly touted; indeed, the single `When I'm on TV'/`Lipstick b/w Leather' (MS-417) (August 1980) was tough guitar pop in the style of UK outfit The Motors. Nevertheless, The Breakers did not get the chance to fulfil any early promise because the band broke up a year later. Manzie concentrated on his production duties (Innocents, Loaded Dice, Choirboys).

Post 523 - OL'55 - Rockin' Singles

Like Sha Na Na and Flash Cadillac and the Continental Kids in the USA, Australia's own rock'n'roll revival act, Ol'55, enjoyed enormous popularity with a style that bordered on parody. Under the direction of astute manager Glenn A. Baker, however, the band managed to combine novelty kitsch with clever theatrics, a keen sense of pop dynamics and an acute understanding of the rock'n'roll form. Ol'55 emerged out of Sydney band Fanis which had formed in 1972. Former chartered accountant Peter Bryan joined Fanis at the start of 1975, and rock writer Baker created a whole new image for the band based around good-time American rock'n'roll. The band took its new name from the Tom Waits song (as covered by The Eagles), dressed in authentic rocker gear, and played vintage 1950s material and appealing originals in the same style (mostly written by Manzie). Having created the flamboyant Frankie J. Holden persona (FJ Holden, geddit?), Bryan proved to be a hyperactive, motormouthed frontman with a natural flair for outrageous showmanship. Ol'55 made its live debut in July 1975 and by September had issued its first single on the Mushroom label, Paul Anka's `Diana' backed with The Spaniels' `Goodnight Sweetheart'. Wilbur Wilde (sax) completed the classic Ol'55 line-up when he joined in October 1975.`Diana' had been a minor hit in Sydney, but the follow-up, `On the Prowl'/`This Little Girl', took the band into the national Top 20 (#18) during June 1976. At the same time, the band's debut album Take It Greasy peaked at #2 on the national album chart, eventually attaining double platinum status (over 140000 copies sold). With two more hit singles, `Looking for an Echo'/`Doin' Fine' (#14 in August) and `(I Want a) Rockin' Christmas'/`Little Saint Nick' (#8 in November), Ol'55 took its place alongside Skyhooks, Sherbet, Hush, the Ted Mulry Gang, John Paul Young and Supernaut in the vanguard of Australian mid-1970s pop. Plummer left Ol'55 in January 1977 to be replaced by Geoff `Spud' Peterkin (ex-Springwater). One month later, the band's fifth single, `C'Mon Let's Do It'/`Teenager in Love', reached #18 on the national chart. Frankie J. Holden also issued his debut solo single, `My Right of Way'/`Chartered Accountant Blues', in April. Written by Jimmy Manzie, it was the theme song to the Australian feature film The FJ Holden. Frankie J. Holden left the band in May 1977, followed one month later by Wilbur Wilde who joined Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons. Ol'55 unveiled its revamped line-up in August with new singer Mikey Raffone (microphone, geddit?; real name Paul Stevens, ex-Silver Studs). The band's second album Fiveslivejive (featuring the original line-up) failed to chart. In the meantime, the new line-up's debut single, `Stay (While the Night is Young)'/`Caught in the Curl', reached #11 in November 1977. Bruce `Tangles' Allen (sax) expanded the line-up at the end of 1977, but by February 1978 Mikey Raffone had left. The band continued as a five-piece with Jones, Drummond and Manzie sharing lead vocals. `(Feels Like a) Summer Night'/`He's Gotta Go' reached #23 in May 1978, but the band's next single, `Time to Rock'n'Roll'/`Homework's Done', on the Junction label (October 1978) failed to chart. Likewise, the band's third album, Cruisin' for a Bruisin', was not successful. `Ruby'/`Nobody Should be Kissing My Baby' returned Ol'55 to the national Top 40 (#36) in February 1979, followed by the unsuccessful `Living for Your Smile'/`Shaggy English Sheepdog' (April 1979). In March Ol'55 signed overseas deals with PolyGram for the release of Cruisin' for a Bruisin' in Europe and with CBS for release in Canada. Unfortunately, a split in the band's ranks prevented any follow-up on the deal. For some time, Manzie had been steering the band in a more pop-oriented direction, and this caused friction with Rockpile Jones and Patrick Drummond, who wanted to continue in the rock'n'roll vein. The two guitarists left the band in June 1979 amid much acrimony, taking with them the rights to the name of Ol'55. Jones and Drummond recruited original Ol'55 drummer Geoff Plummer, Rob Drummond (bass) and Bob Tawney (guitar) in a new line-up and started from scratch. By the end of the year, Ol'55 had signed a new deal with RCA. Terry Bellew replaced Rob Drummond on bass. Ol'55 issued the unsuccessful single `Comic Book World'/`Peek-a-Boo' (February 1980), followed by its eighth hit, Lou Christie's `Two Faces Have I'/`The Fool' (issued on the Leo label through PolyGram), which reached #15 on the national chart during September (Top 10 in Melbourne and Sydney). The Vault album produced one more single, `Anywhere the Girls are'/`You've Got What It Takes' (December), but Ol'55 split up soon after. Here for you to download are all the Ol'55 singles with a big thank you to WoodyNet for some fantastic art work to complement the set.    

Post 522 - The Webb Brothers - The Colonel Put The Lickin' In The Chicken But Who Put The 'Roo In The Stew - Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport

Born in Gympie QLD the three brothers share a property called “Thornside”. Fabian learned guitar during schooldays and began to sing to his own accompaniment.  He taught Berard a few chords and they built on that.  He then taught Marius. Two elder brothers played mouth organ and ukulele.  They played at a few dance halls around the area as a five piece band later the two elder brothers dropped out.  In 1953 The Webb Brothers group formed, mostly for their own enjoyment. Buddy Williams Show goes to Gympie.  Buddy runs a talent quest with a Rodeo Recording as first prize.  The boys won. In 1954 they auditioned for the Australian Amateur Hour, and were successful in winning their heat with a massive 13000 votes from all over Australia. Then in 1958 they  Recorded for Columbia releasing "The Call of the Bellbird" and "Just Sing Sing Sing" - two of their own compositions. More records followed for Columbia, W&G, ATA Festival and RCA. On all their records, the Webb's have recorded a mixture of popular songs including some of their own such as "The Jockeys are Striking", "The Purple Petrol Eater", "Here on this Mountain", "If Only", "Sally Anne" and here for you to download "Who Put The Roo In the Stew" b/w “Tie My Kangaroo Down Sport” (103895), to name a few. In September 1981 the news of the day was the "Kangaroo meat scandal" Marius penned the lyrics "The Colonel put the lickin' in the chicken, but who put the Roo in the stew?" Recorded in Brisbane's Sunshine Studio, the song was released with RCA Sydney. Due to its topical nature, everything about the song was done quickly to coincide with the beef scandal. It was written, recorded and released as a single within ten days - claimed by RCA to be the fastest released and fastest selling record they had ever handled in Australia. In 1982 this single earned the Webb Brothers their second golden guitar for Australasia's Top Selling Record at the 1982 Tamworth Country Music Awards.

Post 521 - Kylie Mole - So Excellent - I Go, I Go

Mary-Anne Fahey (born 19 August 1955 as Mary-Anne Waterman) is an Australian actress, comedian and writer. Fahey's Kylie Mole character – a scowling schoolgirl – was so popular she published the best-selling novel My Diary by Kylie Mole and also released the Double A-Side single in 188 for CBS Records, "So Excellent" and "I Go, I Go" (653028 7), which hit #8 on the Australian ARIA chart in November 1988. A music video for "So Excellent" was filmed. The Kylie Mole character was one of several iconic characters that appeared in the show, and her characterisation resonated especially with Australian youth. The Australian adoption of the word "bogan" was first popularised in the media by Kylie Mole, and other phrases she used also gained a wider currency. As well as performing monologue comedy segments, The Comedy Company also featured Kylie Mole interviewing various celebrities, including Julian Lennon, Sylvester Stallone, the band INXS and Kylie Minogue on the show. Kylie Minogue also appeared in some of the comedy sketches playing Kylie Mole's second-best friend, Rebecca. As well as appearing in The Comedy Company, Kylie Mole was also featured in the second series of the ABC's Kittson, Fahey television show in 1993. In 2002, sixty minutes of footage of The Comedy Company was edited into a special called The Comedy Company: So Excellent, with the subtitle referencing a famed line by the Kylie Mole character. Fahey is currently living in Melbourne and is now concentrating on writing and children's theatre. On 7 May 2007,[2] she published her first children's novel I, Nigel Dorking: An Autobiography about a Boy with an Unusual Vocabulary. 

Post 520 - John Vincent - The Ballad Of John Grey Gorton - Those Prowling Pets

John Vincent was a South Australian DJ who put out many ocker novelty records, both under his own name and as the 'Ken Oath Ockerstra. This single recorded for Nationwide Records in 1971, a “Big Bad John” take off about Australian P.M. John Gorton. Both sides were penned by Norman Hodge. Here to download is “The Ballad Of John Grey Gorton” b/w “Those Prowling Pets” (NSP-053). Vincent commenced his radio career as an announcer with radio 2RE Taree NSW in 1963 then working with many Stations including; 2NX Newcastle, 7HO Hobart, 6PR Perth, 5AD Adelaide, 5KA Adelaide, SA-FM Adelaide, 4TO Townsville, 5MU Murray Bridge, Triple M Adelaide and 2GB Sydney.

Post 519 - Silver Studs - Happy Days LP

Lance Reynolds formed Australian Rock 'n ' Roll revival act Silver Studs in Brisbane during 1975. The trio's act included singing, dancing and comedy. They signed to the Philips label and issued the single My Teenage Dream. They scored their biggest hit single with a rendition of “Happy Days”, the theme song to the US TV comedy of the same name. The single reached number four in June 1976 and was followed by their second hit, “Dance With A Dolly”, which made number 11 in September. The trio's debut album “Happy Days” (6357042) sold 50,000 copies for Philips Records. At the start of 1977, Stevens left to replace Frankie J Holden in Ol'55, where he performed under the pseudonym Mike Raffone. The LP here for you to download was produced by Rod Thomas with the help of William Motzing and Michael Vidale in 1976. 

Post 518 - Helvelln - Helvelln LP

Helvelln were a three piece band from Melbourne formed in 1989. The members were Jeremy Gronow (guitar, vocals), Nick Green (drums) and Andrew Papdopoulos (bass). The album here was recorded and mixed in four days at Sing Sing Studios, Richmond and Melbourne in January 1991 and was produced by Mark Woods. In 1991 Hevelln won the National Campus band competition (at the time the biggest competition of its kind in the Southern hemisphere), toured Australia and released their self-titled album “Helvelln” (D24004) on Mushroom Records. 

Post 517 - Trevor Wilson - Sweat On The Change - Calling Home

Born in New Zealand Trevor Wilson has been in a few bands over the years like The Mergers ’64, La De Das ’65-’70, Manna ’72, Home ’72-’73, Rhythm ‘N Blues ’74 and spent a month with Company Caine. In 1971 he released this single for Warner Bros. Records “Sweat On The Change” b/w “Calling Home” (WBA-4005) it was produced by G.Wayne Thomas. Now if you believe the label “Sweat On The Change” is the A side but according to the “Who’s Who Of Australian Rock” 5^th edition “Calling Home” was the A. Either way both good songs in my books. Trevor penned both sides and in 1994 released an album called “One Sunny Nite”.  

Post 516 - Mother Goose - Baked Beans (unreleased Version)

Marcel Rodeka drummer for Mother Goose told a friend of mine that this was an early version of “Baked Beans” recorded at EMI but never released. I wish I had this when we put together the Mother Goose singles collection would have been a nice bonus track. I like this version see what you think.

Post 515 - SCRA – It’s A Game - Love is a Lonely Day

SCRA (Southern Contemporary Rock Assembly) was made up of 11 members who came from the UK, Oz and NZ. The band also incorporated various styles of rock and pop. They could rock with big band tracks similar to Blood, Sweat & Tears and then take it down a notch to quiet love songs. Based in Sydney, they were popular on the local club scene. Their first album combined a big band sound with some progressive leanings and a few pop moments. The album spawned three singles; “C.C. Rider”, “Roly Poly” and “Sydney Born Man” on M7 Records. The second LP “The Ship Album” was more in a bluesy progressive jazz-rock vein.  It was mixed at The Hit Factory in New York during a U.S. tour. Their brand of 'big band' jazz-rock went down well in the States. This included the ten-minute, ambitious "Something Like The Feeling". The album inevitably got a U.S. release, though in a single sleeve, not the gatefold version which graced the Australian public. They released one further single here for you to download “It's A Game’ b/w “Love Is A Lonely Day” (10012) the A side was a non LP track. SCRA Band Members were: Mickey Leyton, Sheryl Black, Ian Saxon - vocals: Peter Martin, Jim Kelly - guitars; Dave Ellis - bass; Russell Dunlop - drums; Ian Bloxsom – percussion Mick Kenny - trumpet; Don Wright - saxophone & flute; Greg Foster - trombone & harmonica. I recently sent a copy of the two LP's to Sheryl Black this is what she wrote back to me…..Hi Gary......wanting to thank you for the surprise this morning when the cd's arrived...this all happened 42 years ago .I call those years my other life......it was interesting hearing a young voice as well as the songs...all came back. Sadly Mick Kenney and Russell Dunlop are no longer with us....I recently did a couple of gigs with Jim Kelly as he lives up here too...he has his own recording studio now and is in demand....I had only done a handful of gigs over 20 years as I changed direction for a good reason.....now I'm doing a little and so far it's been fun......thanks again for you kindness I enjoyed listening again.....Sheryl......

If you want a listen to these great LP’s head over to http://rockonvinyl.blogspot.com.au/  And thanks to Hugh for this single. 

Post 514 - Silver Studs - Singles Collection

Lance Reynolds formed Australian Rock 'n' Roll revival act Silver Studs in Brisbane during 1975. International blues recording artist Will Scarlet was an original member of the Silver Studs and in fact wrote their first single My Teenage Queen. Will was with the Studs from its earliest conception right up to, the and just before, the recording of Happy Days. Will was an integral part of the success of the Silver Studs and should not be forgotten for his contribution in paving the way for them. The trio's act included singing, dancing and comedy. They signed to the Philips label and issued the single My Teenage Dream. In February 1976 they supported UK visitors The Hollies on their national tour. A month later, Keith Reed left to be replaced, initially by Vivien Grayson and then Paul Stevens. Silver Studs scored their biggest hit single with a rendition of Happy Days, the theme song to the US TV comedy of the same name. The single reached number four in June 1976 and was followed by their second hit, Dance With A Dolly, which made number 11 in September. The trio's debut album (also called Happy Days) sold 50,000 copies. At the start of 1977, Stevens left to replace Frankie J Holden in Ol' 55, where he performed under the pseudonym Mike Raffone, Reynolds and Latorre continued as a duo, renaming themselves simply The Studs (and recruiting a new backing band). The debut single from The Studs was Funky Feet which reached Number 13 in October 1977. The duo completed an album which did not see the light of day until November 1978 and followed two more singles, Today I Met The Girl I'm Gonna Marry and Dr Bop. Here to download is their entire seven singles for Philips and Wizard Records including the B sides. Five of these were non LP tracks. 

Post 513 - Dave Mills - Let The Heartaches Begin - I Love You More

Dave Mills, now retired, lives in Perth Western Australia. He spent 4 weeks at #1 on the Springbok Chart in April 1970 with “Love is a Beautiful Song”. It was also one of the top selling singles in Australia in 1971. Dave Mills also won the SARIE for "Best Male Vocalist" that year. He was a top performer in the Sydney club circuit for many years.  Here to download is a single from 1977 recorded for ATA Records “Let The Heartaches Begin” b/w “I Love You More” (K 6887). The single was produced by Keith Jacobsen and engineered by Duncan McGuire. Dave penned the B Side. He did release a LP and a few singles for Alberts, but I wasn’t aware  that he recorded for ATA so I’m not sure if this is the only single for them or not.

Post 512 - Dawn Dixon – Hand By Hand (Side By Side) – Don’t Look Away

I have been after this single for some time now, seen it a couple of times on EBay and both times it went for over $80 so when I saw it the other day for a “Buy Now” for $10 I jump on it right away. You don’t see many records you’ve been after for years for a buy it now.  You’ll find Dawns’ first single "Bouzouki” at post # 80. I must say I didn’t even know that Dawn released a 2^nd single until I was asked about it a few years back and there is nothing at all in any of my books about her first single or this one. I think it’s a pity because the first time I heard “Bouzouki” I thought she had a sensational voice and a bigger pity she only release the two singles. I did contact Dawns’ son Michael and he asked her about this single and this is what he told him…… “Apparently Ron Tudor owner and producer of fable records requested mum release another song! He chose that number “Hand By Hand” recorded in 1973. It didn't get the promotion it deserved at the time. Unfortunately that’s all I have, that was the last song mum recorded! She continued to do the club circuit and cruise liners around the pacific! Continued singing on television until around 94 then worked with a 5 piece jazz band until 4 years ago. These days at 74 mum still sings once a month or so”

Here to download is that single “Hand By Hand (Side By Side)” b/w” Don’t Look Away” (FB-097). The single was produced by Geoff Hales. A big thanks to Dawn and Michael for the info on this single, I really appreciate your help. 

Post 511 - Rock And Roll Show - Lover, Please - At The Hop

During the many years that the Rock 'N Roll Show were an entertainment force in WA, they filled many venues and had a number of line-up changes. Their last reunion on the 17th April, 1993 was their 21st Anniversary. The Band drew big crowds wherever they appeared at Places like the Boomerang Hotel, Morley Park Hotel, Scarborough Hotel, Maylands Hotel, Ashfield Tavern, Walkabout Hotels in the North West, Goldfields and an extended tour of the Eastern States. Ron Leask, Founder of the Band, had been performing in the Band since it started way back then. Ron owned the Montmartre Night Club at one stage in William St Northbridge. He was also a promoter importing a number of national and international acts into WA. A highlight performance of the Rock 'N Roll Show was backing and performing with Chuck Berry live on stage at the Entertainment Centre on the 16th Sept.1976. The Rock 'N Roll Show cut a number of vinyl 45 singles including " Lover, Please " b/w “At The Hop” (K-5581)released on Sunshine Records and "The King of Jive" with "Hey Rock 'N Roll" released by Martin Clark's Clarion records. Radio 6PM and 6IX had the singles on their play-list. The seven piece Group did a national tour to promote their singles after winning over many fans with their "Showmanship" and "Musicianship" in WA. The band members were Peter White (Keyboards) Chris Conlon (Drums) Graham Herbert (Sax, Flute, Drums) Greg Clarke (Sax, Trumpet) Ron Leask (Lead Guitar, Sax) Gerry Smith (Bass) and Marty Warren (Lead Vocal)

Post 510 - X-Ray-Z – Poor Image - Sledgehammer Hit - Citizen John

Formed in 1977 X-Ray-Z are recognised as one of Australian’s first new wave bands. The band had their roots in Adelaide band Rufus, which moved to Melbourne in early ’77. They renamed themselves X-Ray-Z and set out to make a name in the Melbourne pub scene. They supported Lou Reed in October of that year on his Aussie tour and then signed to Mushroom Records for a one off single “Poor Image” b/w “Sledgehammer Hit” – “Citizen John” (K-6951). The band members made up some picture sleeves for the single which they distributed to record shops themselves. In 1978 they signed up with Suicide Records for 3 tracks that they contributed to a Melbourne punk compilation “Lethal Weapons”. Before splitting X-Ray-Z recorded studio demos and live recordings which the Polyester label combined the 3 tracks from the single for the compilation X-Ray-Z.  Thanks to Hugh for giving me a copy of this single for the Blog a rare one indeed.  

Post 509 - Fielding & Dyer – The Whale – Bay Street Coventry

Terry Fielding and Fred Dyer met at a practice session for a group that included Fred and his brother Frank. They formed a friendship and started work at the same firm in the NSW city of Wollongong. They shared a mutual interest in song writing and with suggestions from Donnie Sutherland they contacted Essex Music with whom they signed a record contract. They performed in and around clubs in Sydney and in 1972 they co-wrote and released “The Whale” b/w “Bay Street Coventry” (EK-4574) for Spin Records. The single was produced by Gus McNeil. Thanks to Hugh for getting this record to me for the Blog. I’ve had many requests for this one. 

Post 508 - Badge – Rock City – Rock ‘N’ Roll Hero

Not to be confused with the heavy metal band Badge from Perth, these guys were a Sydney band formed in 1984. This is the only single they recorded for Powdwerworks Records in 1984. Members were Vella, Trogg and Jackowski according to by book no first names given. The thing that caught my eye was it was produced by Jeff St. John so I asked Jeff could he put a bit more light on the band and this is what he told me….”Hi Garry, I have a vague recollection. They were just a bunch of kids with a couple of siblings in the band”.  This is a great little rock song here for you to download “Rock City” b/w “Rock ‘N’ Roll Hero (POW-0181). 

Post 507 - Factory – Live Until You Die - Shaggy Dog

Another one of those bands with not much info this is the only single they released in 1972 for Spin Records, a cover of an Emitt Rhodes recording. At first I thought this was a Perth band but thanks to some later info from George turns out they were a Sydney band. Chris Woodman from Perth took the band’s name with him to Sydney a few years later and formed this new band.  The single was produced by Gus McNeil. Here to download is Factory and their single “Live Until You Die” b/w “Shaggy Dog” (ek-4657). 

Post 506 - Topaz - Can't Break The Habit - Far Away

Ron Gaydon has performed in many bands over many years, including Topaz and Beat Street. Ron has had a recording and writing contract with Festival Records. He cites some of his career highlights as an appearance on Countdown, and working with bands like 'Split Enz' and 'The Richard Clapton Band'. Here to download is the only single Ron and Topaz ever released for Infinity Records in 1979, it’s a Russ Ballard song “Can’t Break the Habit” b/w “Far Away” (K7299) penned by Ron. I can’t find out any other members names or where the band came from.

Post 505 - Greg Christensen – Singles Collection

Greg Christensen lead singer of New Zealand band Creation went on to record three solo singles between 1977 and 1980. The first two were on the Vertigo label and were "Marie" b/w "The Good Guys and The Bad Guys" (6036 918) in 1977 and "Smiley" b/w "Windy City" (6036923) in 1978. In 1980 his last single was on EMI and called "Baby I Like It" b/w "If You See My Baby" (EMI-277). It was also released in Australia and if I’d heard this one on the radio and didn’t know who was singing it I would have said it was U.K band Racey, what do you think? 

Post 504 - Rabbit - Let Me – Kiss Me Goodnight

It’s taken a bit of time but I finally tracked down the last single recorded by Rabbit. “Let Me” b/w “Kiss Me Goodnight” (BA  222311) recorded for CBS Records in 1977, both sides  were non LP tracks. The A side was a cover of Paul Revere and the Raiders 1969 release written by Mark Lindsay with the B side penned by Dave Evans and a H.Hinds, couldn’t find out who that was because the only Hinds in Rabbit was Dave Hinds. So when you can’t find out the info what to you do, go to the man himself, so I asked Dave Evans about the single and this is what he told me…….”Hi Garry,  That was the only single recorded with the final line-up after Mark Tinson and Phil Screen had left and Phil was replaced by Barry Litten. We split shortly after like most of the top Aussie bands when disco took over and half the venues put in DJ's and we couldn't afford to tour when half our income dried up. Yes David Hinds is the co-writer of Kiss Me Goodnight”. Thanks Dave for your help much appreciated. 

Post 503 The Fable Brass - Twelfth Street Rag – Black And Blue

Yet another one of those recordings where there’s no info, I would guess like The Fable Singers most likely made up of session musicians. All I can find out that it was produced by Doug Trevor who was the guitarist with the Cherokees, he also has produced records for the likes of Robin Jolley, Denise Morrison, Cash Backman, The Marksmen and as well as writing the B side to this single also penned the single for Somebody’s Image “Hide & Seek”. Here to download is the single from The Fable Brass “Twelfth Street Rag” b/w “Black And Blue” (FB-250) for Fable Records in 1975. The Engineer was Ian McKenzie and it was recorded at Armstrong Studios Melbourne.