Post 329 - Whistler's Mother - Steamboat Willie / Mister Big

Here is another one of those Aussie bands with not much information to be found. All I can find is that they were a Sydney band formed around 1964 and did not turn professional until 1970 when they released two singles for RCA Records. Here to download is their first single released in 1971 "Steamboat Willie" b/w "Mister Big" (101941) produced by Brian Nicholls. Both tracks were penned by guitarist John Wermut. Other members were Jac Appel - Drums, Brutus Hudson - organ and Heski Wakil. It doesn't seem any of these guys played in any other bands. Apparently, they performed at the NSW final of the Hoadley's battle of the sounds in 1971, but didn't win and go on to the national finals. Again we are hoping someone out there in the cyber world might know a little more about this band. Like before we have had sons, daughters, ex-wives even band members them selves contact us so fingers crossed. We will also do our best to track down the 2nd single for you to hear.

Post 328 - Dame Edna Everage - The Sound Of Edna LP

Dame Edna Everage is a character played by Australian comedian Barry Humphries. As Dame Edna, Humphries has written several books including an autobiography, My Gorgeous Life, appeared in several films and hosted various television shows. While Dame Edna is a fictitious character whose life story has been entirely created by Barry Humphries, so complete is her identity as an individual that Macmillan published her "autobiography," written by Humphries but credited to Edna herself, on its non-fiction list. According to that autobiography, "My Gorgeous Life," and to statements Edna has made over the years, she was born Edna May Beazley in the rural city of Wagga Wagga, with a sibling who would give birth to Barry McKenzie. Everage started her stage career on 19 December 1955 as Mrs. Norm Everage, an "average Australian housewife" from Moonee Ponds, a Melbourne suburb. Dame Edna spent many years accompanied by her bridesmaid and constant companion Madge Allsop (played by Emily Perry), a New Zealander from Palmerston North who assisted Dame Edna with her appearances and television shows. (Perry died at the age of 100 in 2008). Here to download is Edna's 1978 LP "The Sound Of Enda" (9124 027) recorded for Charisma Records. The single lifted from this set was "Every Mother Wants A Boy Like Elton". On 7th of March 2007 her home town, Melbourne, re-named a city street in her honour: Dame Edna Place, formerly Brown Alley off Little Collins Street. In early 2010, Dame Edna collaborated with cabaret pianist and singer, Michael Feinstein for a two person revue entitled "All About Me", based on the concept that the pair were rivals who were forced to work together for the show's sake. The show opened as the second production for the newly refurbished Henry Miller's Theatre.

Post 327 - Various Artist - A Groovin' With Coca-Cola / Summerhill Road

Many Artists around the world have recorded a Coca-Cola jingle, and our Aussie Artists were right up there with them. Here to download is a single released in 1968 for Coke called "A Groovin' With Coca-Cola" b/w "Summerhill Road" (PRS-2028). The A side featured 4 one minute Coca-Cola jingles by The Executives, The Twilights, The Groove and Johnny Farnham. The Groove won the Hoadley’s National Battle Of The Sounds of that year. As a special bonus the B side features the latest single by The Executives "Summerhill Road". Thanks to Chris for this single and we have a lot more Aussie Coca-Cola jingles to come.

Post 326 - Marcia Hines,Brian Cadd,Max Merritt & Doug Parkinson - To Love Somebody (a tribute to Maurice Gibb)

On the 12th of January we mourned the death of Maurice Ernest Gibb, born on the 22nd of December 1949. He was born in the Isle of Man, the twin brother of Robin Gibb, and younger brother to Barry. The Bee Gees got their start in Australia, and found major success when they returned to England. The Bee Gees became one of the most successful pop groups of all time. Maurice Gibb died at a Miami Beach, Florida, hospital on 12 January 2003 of complications resulting from a twisted intestine (volvulus). His brothers Barry and Robin retired the name Bee Gees for a time, declining to perform as a group. However, as time passed, they decided to perform occasionally under the Bee Gees banner. Here to download is a single released by Marcia Hines, Brian Cadd, Max Merritt & Doug Parkinson paying tribute to Maurice with the Bee Gee hit "To Love Somebody" (70192) for Universal Records. The single was produced by Billy Thorpe & Mark Opitz in 2003 at Electric Mountain Studios Sydney. Away from the Bee Gees, Maurice recorded an unreleased solo album in 1970. Maurice's last project was to produce an album's worth of songs written and sung by his daughter Samantha, which finally appeared in 2005 under the name M E G - Maurice's initials.Flac 

Post 325 - Hans Poulsen - Coming Home Late Again / Run Away Children

Hans Sven Poulsen who was born Bruce Gordon Poulsen on the 7th of March 1945 in Melbourne, Victoria, is an Australian singer-songwriter who was popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Poulsen had hits with "Boom Sha La La Lo" co written with Seeker's Bruce Woodley and "Light Across the Valley" both in 1970 for Fable Records and had success as a songwriter with "Rose Coloured Glasses" for John Farnham and "Monty and Me" for Zoot. One of his best-known and most successful compositions, "It's Only A Matter Of Time", was the much played B side of the Russell Morris's single "The Real Thing". Before he joined Fable Hans released two singles on Parlophone Records "Rocking Chair" b/w "After Dinner Evening Stroll" which was released in January 1968. It was followed by "Coming Home Late Again" b/w "Run Away Children" (A-8606) in December. Apparently neither single made any impact on the charts. In October 1992, Hans suffered a catastrophic brain haemorrage which left him totally paralysed and in a coma, and doctors initially gave him only a one percent chance of recovery. Incredibly, Hans' strength and positive outlook helped him to pull through, and by 1993, although now permanently confined to a wheelchair, Hans had recovered sufficiently to record a new album, "Carry You In My Heart", which featured some of Australia's finest session musicians. Here for you to download is "Coming Home Late Again".

Post 324 - Debbie Byrne - Heroes / Memory

Debbie Byrne made a successful and highly publicised career comeback in 1985 with the starring role as Kathy McLeod, opposite Matt Dillon, in the film Rebel. She was nominated for an AFI Award for Best Actress in a Lead Role for her performance in this film. Here to download is a single written by Peter Best, released from the Rebel soundtrack, "Heroes" b/w "Memory" (EMI - 1638) for EMI Records in 1985. Produced by Bruce Rowland at Studio 301, Sydney. The B side was produced by Peter Dawkins and engineered by Richard Lush came from "The Persauder" LP.

Post 323 - John Paul Young - Out Of Time / Hold Me

By mid 1980 John Paul Young had left Albert Productions and ended his association with Vanda & Young. He used session musicians for his 1960s' covers album, "The Singer" released in 1981. Just before Christmas we were asked if we could post the single lifted from this LP, so here it is for you to download recorded for Hammard "Out Of Time" b/w "Hold Me". Backing John were Jim Doyle & Stuart Frazer - guitars, Rex Bullen - Keyboards, Les Young - bass, Russell Dunlop - drums, Ralph White - horns, Geoff Oakes - sax and backing vocals by Karen Smith.

Post 322 - Bruce Woodley - The Colours Of Your Days

Bruce William Woodley born on 25th July 1942, is an Australian singer-songwriter, guitarist, banjo and mandolin-player. He was a founding member of the successful pop-folk group The Seekers. Bruce's first solo venture was a production company called Pennywheel, which saw him release a number of products for children, including a "Build an Alphabet" set of blocks and the 1969 EP & board book "Friday St. Fantasy". In 1969 Bruce headed off to America to sell the songs he'd been writing, and was to remain there for several years. During this period he collaborated with a number of writers including John Farrar and Australian folk singer Hans Poulsen. Their composition "Boom-Sha-La-La-Lo" became a hit for Poulsen. In 1971 Bruce released his first solo album, entitled Just Good Friends. The original album cover featured two naked models having sex. This was deemed too raunchy for Australia and the cover was replaced by a photo of Woodley. The original cover, however, was allowed in New Zealand, and this version of the album is a collectors item today. Here to download is the one sided flexi disc produced by Bill Armstrong Pty Ltd for Dulux Paints called "The Colours Of Your Days." As you can see by the scan there is no cat.# or date of release. Bruce's non-musical work includes public speaking through the Saxton Speakers Bureau, and he is the patron of various organisations such as the National Institute of Youth Performing Arts Australia. He is also a member of the Advisory Board of the organisation TLC for Kids, and was for a time, beginning in 1997, the chairman of the Victorian branch of the Variety Club.

Post 321 - Dave Allenby - Where Has All The Love Gone / Somewhere In The World

Here to download is Dave Allenby's 1969 single for RCA Records "Where Has All The Love Gone" b/w "Somewhere In The World" (RCA - 1865). There isn't a lot of information on the Internet about this single aside from the fact that it was recorded in the UK, England to be more precise. For more songs and information about Dave, please check out post's #85 and #123.

Post 320 - The Rocky Horror Show - Original Australian Cast

This recording of the Original 1974 Australian Cast of "The Rocky Horror Show" was initially released as a gatefold LP by Festival Records in Australia, reissued in the U.S. a year later by Elephant Records as a budget LP with no gatefold. This is the only cast album that uses "The Wedding Song" as a song title in place of "Dammit Janet." It also groups "Rose Tint My World" / "Fanfare" / "Wild And Untamed Thing" (collectively titled "It Was Great When It All Began" ) with "I'm Going Home" for one extremely long 9.00 minute track. This stage production opened in Sydney on April 19th, 1974 at the New Arts Cinema in Glebe. It was the first Rocky Horror Show production outside of the U.S. and U.K. The show ran for three and a half years, transferring to Melbourne in October 1975 and then to Adelaide in August 1977 before finally closing. The producer Harry M. Miller heard Richard O'Brien's demo tape before The Rocky Horror Show even opened at the Royal Court Theatre in London. He had previously produced two extremely successful shows in Australia, Hair (1969-71) and Jesus Christ Superstar (1972-74). Vocals on this LP were by Dr. Frank-N-Furter: Reg Livermore, Janet Weiss: Jane Harders, Brad Majors: John Paramor, Riff-Raff: Sal Sharah, Magenta and Usherette: Kate Fitzpatrick, Columbia: Maureen Elkner, Eddie and Dr. Scott: David Cameron, Rocky Horror: Graham Matters, Narrator: Arthur Dignam, Magenta (only on "Touch A Touch Me" and "Once in a While"): Julie McGregor and Brad Majors (only on "Over at the Frankenstein Place"): Piero von Arnim. The band was made up of, on Piano: Jamie McKinley, Sax: Geoff Oakes, Guitar & Mellotron: Roy Ritchie, Bass: Ken Firth and Greg Henson on drums, the chorus was made up of Bob Hudson, Arthur Dignam, Julie McGregor, Maureen Elkner, Graham Matters, Sal Sharah, and Piero von Arnim. Here to download is "The Rocky Horror Show" (L 35231) on Festival. It was produced by John Morrison & Roy Ritchie, recording engineer: Richard E. Lush and executive producer: Harry M. Miller. The original LP features a gatefold with performance photos and complete song lyrics. The budget LP reissue got rid of the gatefold, added the Elephant Records logo and "Suggested Retail: $3.29."

Post 319 - The Dargies - Dig The Didjeridoo EP

Horrie Dargie was born on the 7th of July 1917, in Whyalla, South Australia, the second son of Andrew and Adelaide Dargie. His older brother Sir William Dargie was a noted Australian portrait artist. In the early 1930s he took up the chromatic harmonica and won a variety competition on a local radio station in 1937. In 1938 he moved to Sydney. Horrie Dargie joined the Australian Army in 1941 and served in New Guinea and later in the occupational forces in Japan. He returned to Melbourne in 1947 and subsequently formed the famous Horrie Dargie Quintet. By 1952 the Quintet had risen in popularity by dint of hard work, and played their farewell concert at the Sydney Town Hall in 1952 before leaving for England. By chance, a recording was made of the performance on a wire recorder using just one microphone. The 10″ record of the farewell concert became Australia's first Gold Record, selling 75,000 copies. In 1958 Dargie took up a position at Channel 9, where he was in charge of the talent division . He compered the BP Super Show and also was responsible for the Delo and Daly Show, He was the first Australian compere of the show "The Price is Right" and managed the The Go!! Show, a pop music show that regularly featured entertainers such as Johnny Young, Ian Turpie and Olivia Newton-John. Dargie also established Go!! Records in 1964 to promote artists who appeared on the show. Here to download is the EP recorded for Astor Records 'Dig The Didjeridoo With The Dargies" (AEP 4001). There is no date release on the cover or record anywhere even Astor has a ? where the date should be so I'm hoping someone out there can help us with this. Dargie is also remembered for his musical arrangements for the film Crocodile Dundee and the TV show The Leyland Brothers. He also played the background music for the TV series Skippy the Bush Kangaroo. Horrie Dargie passed away at the age of 82 on 30 August, 1999.

Post 318 - The Mojo Singers - C'Mon Aussie C'Mon / Establishment Blues

Seeing the cricket season is upon us we thought these couple of singles may be in order. Originally performed by the Mojo Singers in 1978 as an advertising jingle to promote World Series Cricket's unofficial Australian cricket team, the song eulogised players such as Dennis Lillee, the Chappell brothers Ian and Greg and Rod Marsh. It ended with the refrain, "C'mon Aussie, C'mon, C'mon" sung again and again. The song was part of an advertising campaign devised by the Mojo agency for the Channel Nine network, which televised WSC cricket. Released as a single, it was a smash hit and was played at the WSC games and even sung by crowds at the official Test matches. Each season the lyrics changed to announce who would be the Australian cricket team's opponents that summer and to highlight the latest stars of the team. Here to download is the 1978 WEA single "C'Mon Aussie C'Mon" b/w "Establishment Blues" (100082). The B side was recorded by Glenn Cardier under the name Sydney Hill. As an added bonus we have included in this download the WEA single from 1979 "C'Mon Aussie C'Mon - The New Era" b/w "World Series Cup" & "Have A Go" (100117). Thanks Peter for these. The guys who penned the songs Allan Johnson & Alan Morris had other commercials to their credit such as "You Ought To Be Congratulated" the margarine commercial and "I Feel Like A Tooheys, Or Two" for Tooheys Beer.

Post 317 - Riff Raff - Reindeers On The Rooftop

Our final Christmas post for 2010 is from Glenn Cardier who recorded this Christmas tune in 1985 under the name of Riff Raff. The song features his daughter Beth on vocals. Glenn has penned songs for such fellow Aussie's such as Ol' 55, Olivia Newton-John and appeared on the B side of the Mojo Singers "C'mon Aussie C'mon" as Sydney Hill. He played the first two Sunbury festivals and worked with the likes of Frank Zappa, Spike Milligan, and Fairport Convention. Here to download is "Reindeers On The Rooftop" (K- 7340). Glenn writes, performs and produces his music from his home studio on the Hawkesbury River, north of Sydney. Cardier usually plays all the instruments on his albums.

Post 316 - Billy Field - Santa Claus Is Headin' South

Billy Field is an Australian singer and songwriter, best known for his hit singles "True Love" '82, "Bad Habits" '81 and "You Weren’t in Love with Me" '81. More than a decade earlier he was a member of Sydney band King Fox. King Fox was formed whilst Field and the rest of the group’s members were still in high school. King Fox released their debut single on the Du Monde label. "Unforgotten Dreams" was released in late 1969. "Bad Habits" showed Field’s passion for jazz and pop. His husky vocals proved the perfect foil for the horn sections and crisp production. Here to download is a Christmas song by Billy in 2003 "Santa Claus Is Headin' South." Helping Billy on this track are Don Burrows, Bob Barnard, Ed Wilson, Randy Waldman, Dave Pudney and Len Barnard. It was produced by Lorenzo Toppano.

Post 315 - The Fable Singers - When I Boiled The Billy For Santa Claus

This song is a prime example of a Christmas mystery. The Fable Singers were known for their recordings of the VFL/Later AFL Club Footy Songs on Fable Records, which I am reasonably sure is where the band name came from. This track came from a various artist LP of "True Blue Songs Of Australia" but there is no mention of this ever being a single for Fable. It is also not listed in the Fable discography. So who are The Fable Singers and where did this song come from? Maybe someone out there knows a little more than us and wouldn’t mind sharing the info. Here for you to download is “When I Boiled The Billy For Santa Claus.”

Post 314 - Tony Barber - White Christmas

On post #200 was Tony Barber's Christmas single "Sarah Jane". This year we have for you to download his version of "White Christmas" from his 1981 LP for Telmak Records "Songs Of The Century". Produced by Ernie Rose and engineered and arranged by Scott Hemming and Graham Lyall.

Post 313 - Kamahl - Warm Christmas

Here to download is "Warm Christmas" which was lifted from Kamahl's 1978 Philips LP "Around The World". The song was penned by Clyde Collins and produced by Dermot Hoy and arranged by Allan Tew. You will find some other Christmas Tunes by Kamahl on post #209 and post #199 on our Blog. In 2010, Kamahl made a cameo appearance on Yes We Canberra! as well had a small role in one sketch which was unused but later an extra on the DVD release. Kamahl appeared on an episode of Australian TV quiz show Spicks and Specks which first went to air on 8th of September 2010.

Post 312 - Dame Edna Everage - Spooky Christmas

This Christmas track for you to download came from Dame Edna's 3 track single "Theme From Neighbours". It was produced by David MacKay and Don Reedman and was released in 1988 on Epic Records. Dame Edna Everage is a character played by Australian comedian Barry Humphries. As Dame Edna, Humphries has written several books including an autobiography, My Gorgeous Life. She has also made several recordings, with a hit in 1978 with "Every Mother Wants a Boy like Elton".

Post 311 - Mark Williams - Christmas Is A Lucky Time EP

Williams was born in 1954 in the Northland region of New Zealand and at 16 started up a band called "The Face" with fellow classmates. The band went on to win the National Battle of the Bands competition in September 1970, and finished third overall in the grand final held in Auckland. One of the judges at the final was Lew Pryme, and he recognised the potential of the group and became their manager. When the T.V. show "Happen Inn" finished in '73, a new show emerged. It was called "Free Ride" and was hosted by Ray Columbus. Lew convinced Williams to leave the Face and pursue a solo career. Whilst becoming a featured artist on the show, "Free Ride" will always be remembered for launching the career of Williams. In 1974 Williams was signed to EMI by Alan Galbraith. A single was released at the end of 1974, "Celebration", but it was another song from the recording sessions that really stood out. Galbraith had taken a "Vanda and Young" song, originally destined for Craig Scott, and given it a new arrangement. The song "Yesterday Was Just The Beginning Of My Life" was released in May '75 and within 6 weeks was number one on the National Charts, staying there for 3 weeks and eventually falling out of the charts 6 months later. Williams' debut self-titled album came out in June and peaked at number 2. With his EMI contract about to expire, Williams decided leave the shores of New Zealand in pursuit of an international standing in Australia. With him came Alan Galbraith, his new manager and producer of his three albums. Alan had recently taken up a new position with CBS Australia. Here to download is a Christmas EP Mark did in 1985 for Lucky Records, "Christmas Is A Lucky Time" (AS 1266). Other tracks included are "Jingle Bells" & "Schnitzle,Schnotzle & Schnootzie" the last track was narrated by Dee Dorgan. Backing muso's were Dean Kerr (guitars), Phil Scorgie (bass) and Dave Fennel (drums) & The Lucky Sing-A-Long Chorus from Gosford. It was produced in Sydney by Brian Mackness & Dean Kerr. In 2005, Todd Hunter of Dragon asked Williams to join the newly reformed band and in 2006 the new line up released "Sunshine to Rain" on Liberation. Even today, his most popular hit "Show No Mercy" continues to be recognised as an inspirational song and is still used by many as a motivational anthem.

Post 310 - Noeleen Batley - A Merry Christmas EP

Noeleen was born in Sydney on Christmas Day 1944. Encouraged by her mother, she began singing when she was just five and she performed wherever she could. In 1960 aged 15, she entered a talent contest at Ling Nam's Chinese Restaurant in Sydney, which Festival's A & R manager Ken Taylor had helped to establish. Noeleen won first prize, a contract with Festival. Her debut "Starry Eyes" b/w "Soldier Soldier Won't You Marry Me" was released in February 1960 on Festival's label Rex, but it was not a success. The breakthrough came with her version of "Barefoot Boy" which established Noeleen's popularity and she soon became a regular on TV shows including Six O'Clock Rock and Bandstand. Here to download is her Christmas EP released in 1961 on Festival "A Merry Christmas" (FX-10,340). Noeleen enjoyed a very prolific recording career, with around 20 singles, at least eight EPs and three LPs to her credit, most of them recorded during the peak period of her career between 1960 and 1965. In 1975, she married Stephen Stewart-Topper and settled in Essex. The couple had their first child in 1976 and although noeleen continued to work in entertainment for some time she eventually gave up performing. At last report she had moved to the USA and was living in Miami, Florida.

Post 309 - Phil Golotta - Please Daddy / Back Out On The Road Again

Phil Golotta was with one of the longest surviving Australian groups The Blue Echoes, having stayed together in various line-ups for twenty years spanning early 1964 to late 1983. Golotto who was the lead vocalist was also a successful songwriter; he wrote Jamie Redfern’s 1973 hit "Hitch A Ride On A Smile". Here to download is a Christmas single out of 1973 on Image Records "Please Daddy" b/w "Back Out On The Road Again" (IS 142). The B side is credited to The Blue Echoes and the single was produced by Douggie Reece. In 1977 Phil Golotta and Chris Studdard left the remaining members then recruiting ex-soloists Rod Kirkham (Young Talent Time fame) and Robin Jolley into the line up. A New Group was formed calling themselves "The Echoes".

Post 308 - Peter Ciani & Melinda-Jane Bean - Mrs Santa Claus / Santa Call On Me

Peter Ciani's first major break into the Australian entertainment industry arrived with his spectacular success on the Australian talent/Variety television programme "Show Case". Peter made history in the Australian Music industry in 1963 when EMI released his first Australian disc with two of his own compositions in Italian for world release. Here to download is a Christmas single he released in 1980 " Mrs Santa Claus" b/w "Santa Call On Me" (SS 1001) on Soundmaster Records. The A side was penned more then 20 years earlier by Jack Milledge in a response to his daughter's question about Santa's wife. The B side Peter is joined by 8 year old Sydney girl Melinda-Jane Bean who made her recording debut on this single. The single was produced by Peter & George Picker.

Post 307 - Santa Claus is Back in Town - Australian Crawl

"Sons of Beaches" was Australian Crawl's 4th LP in 1982, it was recorded in Hawaii with expatriate Australian Mike Chapman producing. The album had a rougher, rock 'n' roll edge than its glossy pop rock predecessors and featured the #17 hit "Shut Down". It also included a re-recorded version of "Downhearted" and became their second album to reach No. 1 on the Australian albums chart and remained there for five weeks. EMI issued the album in the USA. Two further singles, "Daughters of the Northern Coast" and "Runaway Girls” both these failed to reach the Australian Top 40. Seeing its that time of year we have flipped the "Runaway Girls" single over and giving you the B side to download. "Santa Claus is Back in Town" (EMI-869).

Post 306 - John Vincent - Owyagowin Santa Claus

Our second download for the season was recorded for RCA Records by popular Adelaide D.J. John Vincent. This Christmas ockerish ditty came from John's 1973 "Owyagoin" LP. Sadly John passed away on 27th March 2009. Here for you to download is the single "Ow ya goin' Santa Claus" (101885).

Post 305 - Johnny Farnham - I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus / The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot

Hello Followers,

It's that time of year again. We hope that everyone, whether they be followers or casual visitors, enjoy the Christmas tunes we put up this year. Last year's response for our Christmas music was fantastic, so we bring more to you this year. First off the K-Tel record selector is Johnny Farnham's first Christmas song here for you to download was a non-album single, "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" b/w "The Little Boy That Santa Claus Forgot" (DO-8604) on Columbia in November 1968. It was produced by Howard Gable. On post #207 you will find Johnny's 1970 Christmas LP "Christmas is... Johnny Farnham".

Post 304 - Piero Von Armin - Exclusively Yours / Local Boy

Piero Von Armin worked in theatre, film and TV. His only known TV credits was Alvin Purple (the series). Piero is probably best remembered by 1970s viewers for his featured part in the successful advertising campaign for “Uncle Sam's Miracle Herbal Hair Shampoo” and "Uncle Sam Deodorant". He also was in the Australian stage version of the Rocky Horror Show '74-'75. He did release one single for Festival Records in 1974 and here for you to download is "Exclusively Yours" b/w "Local Boy" (K-5651). It was produced by Martin Erdman at Festival's Studio 24 in Sydney. The A side was written by Ben Raleigh and Donald Wolf with the B side penned by Piero. For those of you who want to relive the Uncle Sam commercial here are the links:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNJP4mn6SD8&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfbGzL8IWRI&feature=related

Thanks to Peter for this gem.

Post 303 - Burton & Cunico - Strive, Seek, Find

This LP was voted "The Album Release of the Month" on the U.S FM Radio Report in 1974. We couldn't find a lot of info on this album so we emailed Ray and this is what he had to say......

Hi Garry, thanks for the HUGE compliment mate. I recorded the "Strive

Seek Find" album at Record Plant West in LA with Gino Cunico about

1000 years ago. . . ha ha.

All of the songs on this album were written by yours truly :-)

You may or may not know that Gino and I were previously both members

of "The Executives" from Australia.

Burton & Cunico, being primarily an acoustic duo, were around a long

before "unplugged" etc. was "in vogue".

We toured around the USA in a huge Winnebago Motor Home and played

live at all of the Universities, Colleges and local radio stations on

the West Coast and then a couple of months after that, we did the same

thing all over again on the East Coast of the USA.

If I remember rightly we toured through about 40 or so US states and

Probably drove 25,000+ miles {40,000 K's} through Big Town and Small

Town America. There were no digital cameras then so I took around 6000

slides of the trip. Sheesh, it's all so long ago and very hazy Gaz. My

mind boggles at all the places I have been 'n' seen in this ol' world,

especially the USA, Canada and Mexico. That's where the "Strive Seek

Find" concept comes from my friend. . . and . . . I'm still lookin'

for that perfect song . . . ha ha ha

Ray Burton

Here to download is the LP "Strive, Seek, Find" (PAS 6013) on Family Productions and produced by Artie Ripp and Bob Hughes.

Post 302 - James Freud - Step Into The Heat LP

Sadly it was reported that James Freud (Colin Joseph McGlinchey), the singer with Models, has taken his life in his Melbourne home this morning 4/11/10. Freud was noticeably absent when his band Models were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame last week. Sean Kelly commented that James “had fallen off the bike”. Freud was born Colin Joseph McGlinchey in June 29th, 1959. In his autobiography, Freud described his life as “not without a few old-fashioned rock’n’roll excesses”. He had a long-term battle with alcoholism. Freud was 16 when he started his first band "Sabre" with Models guitarist Sean Kelly. In 1977, he formed Teenage Radio Stars and had a hit with "Modern Girl" in 1979. After Mark Ferrie left Models in 1982, James joined his old mate Sean’s band. In 1985, Models, with Freud, had their greatest commercial breakthrough with the Freud penned "Out of Mind, Out of Sight" and "Barbados". He was with the band until the break-up in 1988. His next project was Beatfish with Mental As Anything’s Martin Plaza. In 2008, he released his solo album "See You In Hell". James had been sober since 2004 but Kelly’s comments that the ARIA Hall of Fame last week suggested that he had gone back to alcohol. Freud was 51. As a tribute to this great Aussie talent, here to download is James’s 1989 album for Mushroom "Step Into The Heat" (TVD 93302). It was produced by Bernard Edwards and James peened all the tracks. He is survived by wife Sally and sons Harrison and Jackson from the band Attack Of The Mannequins. R.I.P. James Freud 29/6/1959 - 4/11/10.

Post 301 - Shirley - Song For A Friend

Another B side by request. This time it's the B side to post #55 "Mr Summer" by Skyhooks front man Shirley. "Song For A Friend" (K7285) was produced by Rick Formosa who co wrote the song with Shirl. It was released on Mushroom Records in 1978.

Post 300 - The Amazing Woolloomooloosers - Someday

Way back on post #2 for you to download was The Amazing Woolloomooloosers with their version of Every Mother's Son "Come On Down To My Boat." Looking back we've realised we've missed a few B sides. We were new to this blogging thing back then. This was one of those missing B sides, but better late then never. Here to download is "Someday", penned by Aztec Tony Barber and produced by Roy Fisher.

Post 299 - Jeff Phillips - The Wonderful World Of Jeff Phillips EP

Jeff Phillips is an Australian TV show host and pop singer. Originally from Perth, Western Australia, he first came to public attention when he took over as compeer of Perth TV show, Club 17 in 1966. Moving to Melbourne, he put out a number of single records, but the only one which charted was his cover version of The Shirelles, "Baby It's You" in 1968. He then became host of his own ABC-TV pop show, Sounds Like Us in 1970. That year saw him win the 1970 TV Week Awards - George Wallace Memorial Logie For Best New Talent. In 1971 he became host of the popular Saturday morning pop music show Happening '71. He continued on that show until 1973. After Happening's demise he went to the UK, where he was based for several years and released a number of singles including a version of John Paul Young's, "Yesterday's Hero". In the late '70s he re-located to Los Angeles for a time. He returned to Australia in 1985 to appear in the Australian production of Cats with Debra Byrne. Here to download is Jeff's only EP recorded on Festival Records in 1968 " The Wonderful World Of Jeff Phillips" (FX-11,585). He made a comeback in 1991, hosting the Ten Network TV talent show, Star Search. He had a long recording career, putting out nineteen singles from 1968 to 1981 on such labels as Festival, RCA, Generation, Havoc, U.A and Astor to name a few. There has never been an album release by Jeff which is a pity and I don't think there ever will be a best of sadly either because of too many record companies involvement.

Post 298 - William Shakespeare - Can't Stop Myself From Loving You LP

In November 1974, Shakespeare released his debut album, "Can't Stop Myself from Loving You" (475608 2) here for you to download, produced by Vanda & Young for Albert Productions. His second single, "My Little Angel" followed in December and peaked at #1 for three weeks in February 1975. Shakespeare appeared on teen orientated Countdown in his glam rock costume numerous times. The two singles and album were followed by two more singles, "Just the Way You Are" in April and "Last Night" in May 1976, but he had no further Top 50 charting successes. In 1975 Cave was convicted of carnal knowledge with a fifteen-year-old girl from his Melbourne fan club, he received two years probation. He left Albert Productions in 1977 and had no further recordings and his pop music career was over due to his conviction and changes in music styles. In 1978, Shakespeare, who had an alcohol addiction and clinical depression, was treated with Deep Sleep Therapy by Dr Harry Bailey at the Chelmsford Private Hospital for three weeks. From 1979 he performed as Billy Shake in Sydney clubs but generated little income. His alcoholism and mental health issues resulted in living on the street for several years until he was rescued by former Go-Betweens drummer Lindy Morrison who arranged accommodation and financial assistance for him. Today we say goodbye to William Shakespeare, may he finally find peace. RIP John Cave.

Update: William Shakespeare died from a heart attack. His funeral will be held in Sydney on Friday October 15, 2010.

Post 297 - Christie Allen - Under Lock And Key

Christie Allen was born, June Allen, on the 12th of September, 1954, in the United Kingdom, before moving with her family to Perth, Western Australia. Whilst performing in a band, Pendulum, with her brothers in Perth she came to the attention of songwriter and record producer Terry Britten after virtually knocking on his door, according to an interview she gave on Sounds. Britten, a former member of The Twilights, had previously worked with Cliff Richard with whom he co-wrote "Devil Woman". Impressed by Allen's vocal ability, he began working with her and a recording contract with Mushroom Records. She released her first single "You Know That I Love You", which although it wasn’t a major hit, did attract enough airplay and positive reviews to indicate bigger things to come. Her next three singles from her debut album "Magic Rhythm" were substantial hits. The first single was a ballad "Falling In Love With Only You", which reached #20 in April, 1979. Her next two singles were strongly influenced by the disco style - "Goosebumps" reached #3 in September, 1979, and "He's My Number One" reached #4 in 1980. With sales of 60,000,"Goosebumps" would be Allen's greatest success and was one of Mushroom Record's highest selling singles at that time. In 1980 & 1981 Christie released a three more singles - "Baby Get Away", "Switchboard" and "Don't Put Out The Flame" from her second and final album Detour, produced by John Hudson. Here to download is the B side of "Falling In Love With Only You" "Under Lock And Key" (K7400) which was a non album track. A long illness prevented her from adequately promoting her career and she subsequently retired. After starting a family, the 1990s saw Christie return to music, in a low profile performing as a vocalist with country music bands. In 1998 Michael Gudinski sought her out via an appeal on national radio to perform at a televised tribute concert for the 25th anniversary of Mushroom Records, and she retired following that performance on the 14th November, 1998. In 2006, Gudinski asked Christie to participate in the Countdown Spectacular tour, however due to her ill health, she had to decline. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March 2008 and died at her home in country Western Australia on Tuesday 12 August 2008, aged 53.

Post 296 - Ray Burgess - The Golden City / Rachel's Song

Australian musician and television presenter, Ray Burgess, shot to the top of Australia’s pop rock scene following a successful appearance on television’s talent show New Faces. In 1970 Ray soon became a founding member of Red Time, touring Australia for several years before the band was signed up as backing band to then King of Pop, Johnny Farnham. An accomplished singer in his own right, Ray undertook a solo career in 1974 and his first recording, "Touch Me", became a huge Australian hit. This success was confirmed by more hits, "Love Fever", "Sad Rock & Roll", "Rock & Roll Lightning" and, the one he will be most remembered for, "Gloria". Ray also recorded three albums. He was host of Rock & Roll Circus and then popular youth culture program, Flashez on ABC. Here to download is a single written & produced by Axiom's Don Mudie about Bendigo in Victoria, "The Golden City" b/w "Rachel's Song". Can't find out much more about this single as its only mentioned in one of my books as a release in 1981? as you will see in the scans there is no record label or cat. #. I'm starting to think maybe it was recorded for some celebration for Bendigo. Maybe someone out there will enlighten us. Ray penned the B side. Singer, musician, television presenter, host, MC and compére, after 40 years in Australia’s entertainment industry, Ray has a lot to offer. In 2008 Ray’s daughter, singer Casey Burgess, was hand picked from thousands of hopefuls to replace Charli Delaney in the hugely popular kid’s group, Hi-5.

Post 295 - Private - Like Her Daddy / In Our lives

Private once know as Private Lives were a Sydney band formed in 1985. As Private Lives the band issued 3 singles and a EP between 1983/84. As Private the band released 2 singles and a LP all in 1985. Here to download is their 2nd single "Like Her Daddy" b/w "In Our Lives" (104433) on RCA Records. Produced by guitarist Eddie Hansen & Private, both tracks were written by guitarist John Needham. Other members included were Phil Munro - bass, Alan Murphy - drums, Francisco Cordoza - percussion, Annatasia - vocals and Trudi Aspeling - vocals.

Post 294 - Cassi James - Which Way You Goin' Billy / Heaven Help The Girl

Carol Richards was a copy writer for radio 3UZ, as a freelancer and in advertising, copy and jingle writing. She worked as a professional solo singer all over the place and got her break when she joined Johnny Chester and Jigsaw under the name of Cassi James. She released a record here for you to download in 1971 "Which Way You Goin' Billy" b/w "Heaven Help The Girl" (FB-041). The A side was written by Terry Jacks who had a hit with this with his band The Poppy Family. The B side was penned and produced by Johnny Chester. I emailed Johnny to see if he could give me any info on Cassi this is the reply we got :-

G'day Garry,

Good to hear from you,

Cassi James was a stage name selected for Carol Perlman who sang with my show for a year or so in the early '70's. As far as I know they were the only two songs she ever recorded. I did try to get her to take a similar path musically to Linda Ronstadt and embrace country music as well as rock'n'roll and big ballads as she had a mighty voice but it wasn't to be. Carol married and I've only ever seen her once since those days and that was in the early '90's. The last I heard she was still living in Melbourne but I don't know her married name or even if she is still married. I don't think she is still singing.

Sorry I can't be of more help

Thanks for your interest

All the best

Chess

We emailed him back with what info we had on Cassi and he was grateful. and he also told us that the B side was recorded at the same session that he and Jigsaw did "Billy's Comin' Home For Christmas" (post # 196) at Armstrong’s demo studio. She re-married at 61 and has written three books. She once said that her most joyful achievement, satisfying beyond words, is and will always be, bringing my precious daughter into this world.

Post 293 - Captain Rock - I Do Love A Saturday Arvo / Can We Do It Again

Captain Rock recorded the original "Give Me A Home Among The Gumtrees", as well as "Steamed Vegetables" from the album "Buried Treasure" in 1975. Captain Rock wasn’t a band but the dressed up name given to novelty songwriter Bob Brown. Another one of those artists that there is not a lot of info on. This single here for you to download "I Do Love A Saturday Arvo" b/w "Can We Do It Again" (FB 341) produced by David Williams & Greg Macainsh and the B side produced by David Fleet. The record was released on Fable but has no date but going by the cat # it would have to been around 1980/81.

Post 292 - Andy Upton - Stop In The Name Of Love / Born In A Taxi

Andy gained national recognition in the seventies through radio and TV appearances and enjoyed chart successes including a number one hit in Adelaide with his recording of "Stop In The Name of Love". The 5AD top 40 music chart certainly had some big artists competing for that No. 1 spot. In the early 60's, Andy's musical tastes were first influenced by "The Beatles" melodies and harmonies, and later by the "The Rolling Stones". Singing along to those early tracks it was evident that singing was what he wanted to do. In the mid 70's the ABC's Countdown, gave exposure to one of Andy's songs "Rainbow World" and achieved limited success. The ABC and Molly Meldrum were very supportive of Australian talent. Here to download is that #1 single "Stop In The Name Of Love" b/w "Born In A Taxi" (ZS 175) produced by Robie Porter in 1977 on Wizard Records. Andy penned the B side. These days Andy is even more passionate about recording and releasing his own songs. The new age of digital has made it possible to record and release Andy's songs over the internet at the following site: http://www.andyupton.com.au/

Post 291 - Debutantes - Various Artist LP

The "Debutantes" LP in 1977 was the first 33 1/3 RPM of six new acts. If you lived in the South Eastern part of Australia you would have already seen Stiletto and The Sports live in concert. Others such as Mark Gillespie who lived in Yowrie N.S.W. and Adrian Hann a teacher, this LP presents their work for the first time. The last two acts Wayne Burt and Red Symons have been heard before on record as members of Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons and Skyhooks. The songs recorded for this album were the first solo recordings by these artists. Here to download is the LP "Debutantes" (OZS-1005). The album was engineered by John French with production by Ross Wilson, Red Symons, Adrian Hann and Wayne Burt.

Post 290 - Pattie - Gravitation / Let The Music Start

At 15, Little Pattie left Sydney Girl's High School to concentrate on her singing career. She scored three more hit singles during 1964 and made regular television appearances on shows like Bandstand, Saturday Date and Sing, Sing, Sing. In 1966, Pattie (having dropped the 'Little') toured Vietnam to entertain Australian troops. Despite assurances of absolute safety, at the tender age of 17 she found herself being evacuated from the beach at Long Tan, and returned home a changed (and more politically mature) person. Here to download is her 1969 single for Columbia "Gravitation" b/w "Let The Music Start" (DO-8694) it was produced by David McKay. In 1972 she played a leading role in the Australian Labor Party's It's Time campaign, which saw Gough Whitlam elected as the first Labor Prime Minister in 23 years. Although Patricia Amphlett tried in recent years to forge a career as an adult singer, she fell into a common fate for child stars, the public refused to let her grow up. Thanks to Micko for help with this one.