MARTY ROBBINS Have I Told You Lately That I Love You? / I’ve Got A Woman’s Love ‘2on1’ Release date: 9 March 2010 (HUX112)

In the history of Country music, no artist has ever had a more stylistically diverse career than Marty Robbins. Robbins was never content to remain just a country singer, and performed successfully in a dazzling array of styles during more than 30 years in the business.

In 1959, he became the first country music star to be awarded a Grammy, for his classic country hit 'El Paso', and the success of this song established Robbins once and for all. In 1970, The Academy Of Country Music voted him their 'Man Of The Decade'.

This CD features two of Marty's LPs which were originally released on Columbia Records in 1972 & 1974. They are now reissued on CD for the first time. Included here are several Robbins' originals, as well as some of his exquisite interpretations of standards.

The accompanying booklet includes extensive liner notes, rare photographs and full lyrics to every featured track.

THE SILKIE You've Got To Hide Your Love Away
Release date: 7 December 2009 (HUX111)

The Silkie are best remembered for their hit cover of the Beatles song 'You've Got To Hide Your Love Away', which made the U.S. top ten in 1965. The Silkie gave the song a somewhat more pop-folk treatment, complete with male-female harmonies, its prospects were boosted by a Lennon-McCartney production credit. The Beatle connection didn't end there, as they were also managed by Brian Epstein.

The Silkie was a quartet of Hull University students: Mike Ramsden (guitar & vocals), Sylvia Tatler (vocals), Ivor Aylesbury (guitar & vocals) and Kevin Cunningham (bass),

Three of the Beatles were involved in the Silkie's cover version of 'You've Got to Hide Your Love Away'. Paul McCartney contributed vocals and guitar, George Harrison added percussion via guitar taps and tambourine, and John Lennon did most of the producing, although McCartney is sometimes credited as co-producer with Lennon.

As Mike Ramsden later reminisced: 'It was really Paul's arrangement of John's song. The bit at the beginning on guitar is Paul. George Harrison turned up, tapping on the back of the guitar and going "sssh". John was with an engineer in the control room, producing the record. We had six hours with three Beatles and Jane Asher, who was opening the beer. John was so chuffed that he rang Brian Epstein and said, "Listen, Brian, we've just made a No.1". He played the song over the phone and Brian said "Well done"'.

This CD reissue of The Silkie's album also includes their singles as bonus tracks. The accompanying booklet features extensive liner notes, photographs and full recording details.
 

CAL SMITH The Best Of
Release date: 7 December 2009 (HUX110)

Singer Cal Smith is the possessor of a warm, comforting baritone who had a significant presence in the US country music market, especially during the 1970s. This sixteen track compilation covers his MCA years from 1973 to 1978, his best and most successful period.

As a member of Ernest Tubb's band during the 1960s, Smith's big break came when Tubbs helped to get him a solo record deal of his own in 1966, with Kapp Records. From 1967-1970, Smith had eight chart singles on the Kapp label.

In 1970, Smith signed with MCA Records, and embarked on his most successful period, which included his first number 1 hit: 'The Lord Knows I'm Drinking'.

Smith's next number 1 single, 'Country Bumpkin', became his career record and signature song, and was a perennial favourite for years to come. It was also voted the Country Music Association's 'Song Of The Year' in 1974.

His third number 1, 'It's Time To Pay The Fiddler', established Smith as a firm favourite amongst fans of pure country music.

All three of these number 1 hits are included here on this 'Best Of' compilation. Many of these songs are now released on CD for the first time.

This CD compilation has been digitally remastered by Ron Geesin. The booklet includes extensive liner notes, photographs and full lyrics to every track.


 

QUINTESSENCE Infinite Love - Live At The Queen Elizabeth Hall 1971
Release date: 12 October 2009 (HUX109)

Quintessence recorded five albums (for Island and RCA) between 1969-73 - all five are currently available on CD.

This is the first ever 'new' Quintessence material unearthed - and doubles at one stroke the quantity of vintage Quintessence music available.

Sound quality - recorded and preserved on 16-track multitracks - is extraordinary.

Mastered by Cormac O'Kane, responsible for the sound on Sanctuary/ Universal's widely acclaimed Pentangle box set and for numerous BBC soundtracks.

36 page full colour booklets designed by Mark Case, award-winning graphic designer.

Includes 18,000 word group history and chronology from music biographer Colin Harper.

Released with the blessing and co-operation of former group members Phil 'Shiva' Jones and Dave 'Maha Dev' Codling.

A hugely acclaimed live act at the time, this is the first time a full Quintessence live album (let alone two) has ever been released.
 

QUINTESSENCE Cosmic Energy Live At Pancras 1970
Release date: 12 October 2009 (HUX108)

Quintessence recorded five albums (for Island and RCA) between 1969-73 - all five are currently available on CD.

his is the first ever 'new' Quintessence material unearthed - and doubles at one stroke the quantity of vintage Quintessence music available.

Sound quality - recorded and preserved on 16-track multitracks - is extraordinary.

Mastered by Cormac O'Kane, responsible for the sound on Sanctuary/ Universal's widely acclaimed Pentangle box set and for numerous BBC soundtracks.

36 page full colour booklets designed by Mark Case, award-winning graphic designer.

Includes 18,000 word group history and chronology from music biographer Colin Harper.

Released with the blessing and co-operation of former group members Phil 'Shiva' Jones and Dave 'Maha Dev' Codling.

A hugely acclaimed live act at the time, this is the first time a full Quintessence live album (let alone two) has ever been released.

 

FAMILY BBC Radio Volume 3 1970
Release date: 15th June 2009 (HUX107)

Previously unreleased BBC tapes from this legendary progressive rock band.

Fronted by the raspy voice of Roger Chapman and the excellent guitar playing of Charlie Whitney, Family was one of Britain's leading progressive rock bands of the late 60s-early 70s.

This is the third of three Hux volumes of previously unreleased BBC Radio 1 sessions by the band, and features new material as well as different versions of original songs never before available on CD.

The accompanying 12 page booklet includes extensive liner notes, complete recording details and several rare band photographs.

ED BRUCE The Tennessean / Cowboys And Dreamers '2 on 1'
[Release date 27th April 2009] HUX106

Two stunning LPs from one of the original Sun Records artists, and the composer of the classic country hit, 'Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys'.

Ed Bruce was one of the original Sun Records artists, and released his first records at the age of just 17. He subsequently enjoyed a long and successful musical career, and his résumé contains no less than eight BMI Award winning songs.

His legendary composition, 'Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys', became an enormous success for Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, when they recorded it as a duo in 1977.

The two Ed Bruce albums on this CD were originally released in 1977 & 1978. They have now been digitally re-mastered and are reissued here together on CD for the first time.

These two LPs contain some truly outstanding and memorable country music, performed in Ed's rich and resonant baritone, supported by the cream of Nashville musicians and with first rate production from Buddy Killen.

Included here is Ed's signature tune, 'When I Die, Just Let Me Go To Texas'. This song was later a huge hit for Tanya Tucker, who re-titled it, 'Texas (When I Die)'.

The accompanying 12 page booklet includes photographs, liner notes and full lyrics to all of the featured tracks.
 

FARON YOUNG Here's Faron Young / Occasional Wife '2 on1'
[Release date 27th April 2009] HUX105

Two original Faron Young LPs, first released in 1968 & 1970, now digitally re-mastered and reissued on CD for the first time.

Faron Young had one of the longest-running and most popular careers in country music history. Emerging in the early 1950s, Young continued making great music through until the early 1990s.

This CD is comprised of two first rate albums; 'Here's Faron Young' from 1968 and 'Occasional Wife' from 1970. Both LPs showcase Faron's recordings from a time when he was at the very height of his career, where his individual trademark tremulous tenor vocals were never better.

The album 'Here's Faron Young' includes two country music hits - 'She Went A Little Bit Farther' & 'I Just Came To Get My Baby'. The 'Occasional Wife' LP also produced two hit singles - 'If I Ever Fall In Love (With A Honky Tonk Girl)' and the title track, 'Occasional Wife'.

Both albums on this disc have now been digitally re-mastered and are reissued here together on CD for the first time. The accompanying 12 page booklet includes photographs, liner notes and full lyrics to all of the featured tracks.
 

DR STRANGELY STRANGE Kip Of The Serenes
[Release date 24 February 2009] HUX104

Hux Records is proud to announce the re-release of this classic slice of psychedelic folk.

Based in Dublin, the Strangelies were friends and contemporaries of the Incredible String Band, whose producer Joe Boyd signed them to his Witchseason management and production company in 1969. This first album originally came out in mid 1969 on Island Records.

Over the years, Kip has acquired a considerable cult status; in 2007, Record Collector Magazine proclaimed it one of the UK's 'hundred most collectable progressive rock records.'

Previous CD reissues of Kip have been of variable quality, but we have now set matters right with this special Collectors' Edition. Using the tape restoration skills  of the Audio Archiving Company, we have re-mastered the album directly from the original stereo mixes and added four previously unheard bonus tracks, taken from the original studio sessions. Belying the age of the tapes, the sound quality is sparkling.

Music historian Adrian Whittaker, responsible for our well-received archive Strangelies release Halcyon Days, has put together a lavish accompanying booklet including a history of the band, new interviews with the band members, Joe Boyd and writer Iain Sinclair, full lyrics to the songs and many previously unseen photographs.
 

The Screaming Blue Messiahs was a high-octane British power trio who breathed excitement and danger back into the music scene of the mid 1980s. Drawing on the influences of Chicago blues, punk, rockabilly and British rhythm'n'blues bands like the Pirates and early Dr Feelgood, the Messiahs delivered a pulverising and brutal brand of rock'n'roll wholly of their own making.

This collection brings together some of their best work for BBC radio. There are red-hot, vintage studio sessions for DJs Andy Kershaw and Janice Long from 1985 and 1987 respectively, whilst a BBC concert from early '85 reveals just what a powerful live band they were from the start. Just feel that raw energy and electricity! British rock was tragically robbed of one of its most resilient flame keepers when the group had to call it a day in 1990.

This CD has been released with the full approval and co-operation of the Screaming Blue Messiahs. The CD cover was designed SBM mainman Bill Carter, and the booklet features photographs from the band's own archive, plus extensive liner notes.
 

SHAWN PHILLIPS At The BBC
[Release date: 24 February 2009] HUX102

Shawn Phillips is one of the most fascinating and enigmatic musicians to come out of the 1960s singer/songwriter boom. He remains on the periphery of mainstream rock, despite selling hundreds of thousands of albums and singles since he first came on to the scene.

These previously overlooked BBC radio sessions, recorded for John Peel and Bob Harris, reveal Shawn Phillips' breathtaking versatility, from stunning solo acoustic balladry to full on jazz funk workouts on which he collaborates with the English band, Quatermass.

This CD, released with the full approval of Shawn Phillips, has been digitally re-mastered by Ron Geesin. The accompanying 16 page full colour booklet features extensive liner notes, including an interview with Shawn, plus several rare photographs.
 

GENE WATSON Reflections / Should I Come Home
[Release date: 26th January 2009] HUX101 2 for 1

Gene Watson was once cited by George Jones - almost certainly the greatest country artist that the world has known - as his favourite country ballad singer. Whilst Grand Old Opry veteran and country superstar, the late Porter Wagoner, once described Watson as "a singer's singer".

Gene Watson's 'Reflections' album, from 1978 and 'Should I Come Home', from 1979, both included several country chart hits, including 'One Sided Conversation', 'Farewell Party', 'Pick The Wildwood Flower', 'Nothing Sure Looked Good On You' and 'Should I Come Home (Or Should I Go Crazy)'.

These two albums maintain the superlative standard set by Gene's earlier LPs, arguably even surpassing them in terms of material and performances.

Both albums have now been digitally re-mastered and are released here on CD for the first time. The accompanying 12 page booklet includes extensive liner notes, photographs and full lyrics to all of the featured tracks.

INCREDIBLE STRING BAND Tricks Of The Senses
Rare And Unreleased Recordings 1966-1972
[Release date: 26 January 2009] HUX100 Double CD

One of the most engaging groups to emerge from the esoteric 1960s was the Incredible String Band. Basically the duo of Mike Heron and Robin Williamson, its sound was comprised of haunting Celtic folk melodies augmented by a variety of Middle Eastern and Asian instruments.

Tricks Of The Senses is a double CD compilation of unreleased or rare Incredible String Band material from the Witchseason and Island Records archives, and represents a fascinating alternative history of the band. ISB's Robin Williamson and Mike Heron were fully involved in this project from the start, and were both impressed by the quality of the material that was unearthed.

The accompanying 28 page booklet features exhaustive liner notes, including a detailed story about the background to this project. Also featured are several rare photographs and full lyrics to many of the songs.
 

CHARLIE LOUVIN Less And Less & I Don't Love You Anymore / Lonesome Is Me [Release date: 26th January 2009] HUX099 2 for 1

From the mid 1950s until the early 1960s, the Louvin Brothers, comprising Charlie and his brother Ira, became one of the most prestigious and influential bluegrass acts of all time. They developed a sound that was to later influence and inspire many others including (especially) the Everly Brothers and such seminal country rock performers as the Byrds and Gram Parsons. The duo separated in 1963, and both went on to pursue solo careers.

In 1964, Charlie Louvin released his first solo album. As was the fashion of the day the album was named after two chart successes, 'Less And Less' & 'I Don't Love You Anymore'. Charlie's second album, 'Lonesome Is Me', followed in 1966.

Louvin's music had now become smoother and more 'mainstream Nashville' than his erstwhile raw mountainy style, although a plaintive bluegrass undertone is never too far from the surface in his vocal delivery.

Both albums have now been digitally re-mastered and are released here on CD for the first time. The accompanying 12 page booklet includes extensive liner notes, photographs and full lyrics to all of the featured tracks.

Today, Louvin continues to be involved in recording projects, often in esteemed company which has included George Jones, Tanya Tucker, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Charlie Daniels. 2007 saw the release of his latest new album, which reprised his classic material and was recorded with rock and country stars such as Tom T Hall, Elvis Costello, Marty Stuart as well as members from alt-country ensembles such as Wilco and Lambchop.

RON GEESIN Biting The Hand BBC Radio Broadcasts 1969-1975 (HUX098) [Release date 12.05.08] 2-CD

A genuine 'one-off', with a dizzying range of work, Ron Geesin's name will be familiar to many rock fans through his collaboration with Pink Floyd. Geesin worked with the band on their 'Atom Heart Mother' LP, co-writing the side-long title track of that record.

One of Britain's leading avant-garde composers and performers, Geesin began his musical career in 1962, as a member of a jazz band, and is still going strong today, working on new projects into 2008.

This double CD, compiled and re-mastered by Ron Geesin himself, features a comprehensive collection of his BBC radio session recordings, most of which have never been released before now.

The accompanying 12 page CD booklet features extensive liner notes by Ron Geesin, along with his comments and recollections of each session and rare photographs from his own archive.

"Bearing witness to Ron Geesin on stage is an unforgettable experience. He stomps around roaring strange poetry and nearwords. He blows into petrol cans and draws the audience and the events of the evening into him. He plays "amazements" on the piano and a bizarre neo-banjo. He plays on the walls, the floor, chairs, the atmosphere - and the audience. Description is really superfluous." - John Peel

"Nobody will ever know what Geesin is, but this collection offers you, and me, a chance of finding out." - Ron Geesin
 

Brothers Robin & Barry Dransfield joined together to form the British folk band the Dransfields in 1969. Into the early 1970s, British folk-rock was the buzz word among record labels, but out in the folk clubs the kings of the castle were this hot-headed acoustic brother duo from Yorkshire - blessed in uncanny harmonising like the Everlys and any number of bluegrass siblings out west, but virtually alone in the art on the British folk scene.

Turning down an offer to join the founding line-up of Steeleye Span, the brothers toured for several years as a duo, their shows including performances with Tom Paxton, Ewan MacColl, Martin Carthy, and the Watersons. The brothers eventually went their separate ways and Robin released his one and only solo LP, Tidewave, in 1980.

Now combining the first CD issue of that LP with a previously unreleased solo concert recorded in November 1972 at Medway Folk Club in England, this 2CD set is a timely reminder of the brilliance of Robin Dransfield, a lost giant of the early '70s English folk scene who has remained determinedly inactive in music-making for over 20 years. The revival starts here.

The 20 page booklet features an introductory liner note by noted music journalist Colin Harper, plus extensive notes by Robin Dransfield, including the story behind the making of Tidewave and his personal comments on each of the featured songs. Also includes several rare photographs from Robin's own archive.
 

FORMERLY FAT HARRY Goodbye For Good: The Lost Recordings 1969-72 (HUX096) [Release date 04.03.08]

Formerly Fat Harry are one the forgotten greats of late '60s British rock. The band was formed in London in 1969 by ex-Country Joe & the Fish bassist Bruce Barthol and two old friends from the Berkeley California folk music scene, Gary Petersen and Phil Greenberg. Fat Harry was soon signed up by the original Pink Floyd management company.

Playing a highly idiosyncratic brand of Americana that frequently experimented with jazz time signatures, the band played at two of the now legendary free concerts in Hyde Park, the 1970 Bath Festival, Phun City and many of the clubs of the era such as The Marquee in London.
 

Jamaican born Harold McNair was one of the unsung heroes of the second generation of British modernists. His Parkeresque alto, Rollins-influenced tenor and truly unique flute playing astounded the London jazz scene in the early 1960s.

McNair's 1970 LP, 'The Fence', has always been a much sought after rarity amongst collectors. Now digitally re-mastered, this reissue features liner notes and period photographs by Val Wilmer.

 

For John Martyn, 1973, when this concert was recorded, was a year of serious transition, both musically and in terms of moving once and for all away from the folk club scene and into the college and concert circuit.

'The Battle Of Medway', released with the full approval of John Martyn, captures him in blistering form, on one of his last ever solo acoustic folk club gigs.

  WIZZ JONES Lucky The Man (HUX094) [Release date 27.08.07]

Wizz Jones is regularly cited as an early influence by the likes of Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton and Keith Richards, amongst many others. He was also a crucial mentor to 1960s folk-blues royalty like Bert Jansch, John Renbourn and Ralph McTell. More recently, he’s frequently name checked as an icon by younger artists, including Thurston Moore & Stephen Malkmus.

Originally released as a very limited pressing on an independent American label in 2001, ‘Lucky The Man’ is still Wizz’s most recent studio album. This digitally re-mastered reissue is enhanced by the addition of 5 bonus tracks, all selected by Wizz himself. The final bonus cut, ‘Sugar For Sugar’, is a previously unreleased duet with Wizz’s hero, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott.

The 12 page CD booklet includes extensive liner notes, personal comments from Wizz on each of the bonus tracks, plus several rare photographs from Wizz’s own archive.

THE RUMOUR MAX (HUX093) [Release date 27.08.07]


When The Rumour formed in 1975, they were looked on as a type of ‘Pub Rock Supergroup', as they featured several veterans from that scene. Bob Andrews (keyboards/vocals) and Brinsley Schwarz (guitar/vocals) were previously with the legendary band, Brinsley Schwarz.

Martin Belmont (guitar/vocals) came from Ducks Deluxe, and Steve Goulding (drums/vocals) and Andrew Bodnar (bass) from Bontemps Roulez.

Though perhaps best remembered as the backing band for Graham Parker during his late ‘70s heyday, The Rumour actually released 3 albums under their own name, between 1977 &1980. They also worked extensively as a house band for Stiff Records, and backed Elvis Costello on ‘Watching the Detectives'.

The Rumour's debut album, MAX, produced by Mutt Lange, is now reissued here on CD for the first time. The band's loose, jamming style flits comfortably between roots rock, country, pop & reggae and the album still sounds incredibly fresh today, 30 years after it was recorded.

 

DR STRANGELY STRANGE Halcyon Days (HUX092)
[Release date 18.06.07]

We are proud to announce news of this previously unreleased album by Dr Strangely Strange, dating from their classic period, 1969/70.

Halcyon Days will contain the following archive tracks (mostly produced by Joe Boyd) which were recently discovered in the Island vaults;

Cock-a doodle-doo - Sweet Red Rape - Existence Now - Good Evening Mr Woods - Going to Poulaphouca - Mirror Mirror - Horse of a Different Hue
Lady of the Glen - HMS Avenger - Cock-a-doodle-doo (‘Kip of the Serenes' version)

As bonus tracks, the CD will include 3 new songs, recorded last year in 'Kip' acoustic style; Le Le Rockin' Sound, The Invisible Kid & Halcyon Days.

 

Many music fans will know Peter Ivers as the writer of 'In Heaven (Lady in the Radiator Song)', which he originally composed for David Lynch's classic film, Eraserhead. The song was later immortalised, of course, by fellow Bostonians, the Pixies.

On its original release in 1969, Knight of the Blue Communion drew comparisons with Captain Beefheart and Frank Zappa, with Yolanda Bavan appearing to be the conventional vocalist cast in what was often a sea of avant-garde madness, the music a blend of blues, rock & jazz. The LP was produced by the veteran US pop producer Sandy Linzer, who had written and produced the hit 'Let's Hang On To What We Got'.

This special 'digi-pack' format features a reproduction of the original LP sleeve. The accompanying 20 page CD booklet features extensive liner notes, including interviews with the featured singers and musicians, along with the original LP liner note by Peter Ivers, full lyrics to every track and rare photos.

 

The Incredible String Band was arguably one of the most engaging groups to emerge from the esoteric 1960s. Basically the duo of Mike Heron and Robin Williamson, their sound was comprised of haunting Celtic folk melodies augmented by a variety of Middle Eastern and Asian instruments.

The Incredible String Band adopted an adventurous approach to their BBC radio sessions, using them to try out new, non-album material or radically rearrange older songs, encompassing a remarkable variety of instrumentation and genres.

This double CD contains 13 previously unreleased recordings and has been compiled and released with the full co-operation of the band.

The accompanying 24 page booklet includes rare photographs, comprehensive liner notes and a full BBC sessionography, plus an additional note from Mike Heron and lyrics to several of the featured songs.

"An absolutely indispensable record from the wealth of ISB session material that survives… there are some genuine masterpieces"
Record Collector (4 stars)

 

TOM T HALL We All Got Together And… / The Storyteller (Hux091)
[Release date 28.05.07]

Tom T. Hall is known as a classic Country Music singer/songwriter, with a keen eye for detail and a knack for narrative. The composer of 11 #1 hits, he has written songs for dozens of country stars, including Johnny Cash, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Waylon Jennings & Alan Jackson.

Very early on in his career, Hall picked up the sobriquet of the Storyteller, and the title “The Storyteller” was used for one of two albums that Mercury released in 1972, the other being “We All Got Together And…”. Both of these albums registered on the upper reaches of the country music chart in 1972.

Over the following decades, Tom T Hall went on to release several more great albums. But it is his work in the 1970s for which Hall will always be remembered, and it doesn’t come any better than the two albums presented here on this CD.

Now digitally re-mastered, these two exemplary albums are now reissued together on one CD for the first time. Included here is the Country #1 song, ‘Old Dogs, Children And Watermelon Wine’, considered by many fans to be Hall’s finest recording.

 

PENTANGLE One More Road & Live 1994 (Hux 089)
[Release date 28.05.07]


Recently honoured for Lifetime Achievement at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, the legendary status of the original Pentangle is beyond question.

Less known, though, are the great albums made by the reconstituted Pentangle between 1984-94.

Built around original members Jacqui McShee and Bert Jansch, with guitarist Peter Kirtley, drummer Gerry Conway, and Nigel Portman Smith on bass, the group created a magical sound all of their own.

This double CD brings together the highlights from this Pentangle line-up; Their final studio album, the epic ‘One More Road’, with their swansong, ‘Live 1994’. These discs capture the band performing old favourites and overlooked gems with a fantastic new energy.

Both CDs have been digitally re-mastered and are now reissued together on CD for the first time, with the full agreement of the band.

The accompanying 20 page booklet features extensive liner notes, including interviews with the band, plus an additional note by Jacqui McShee, lyrics to many of the featured tracks and rare band photos.

  DUCKS DELUXE The John Peel Sessions (HUXO86)
[Release date 26.02.07]

Ducks Deluxe was one of the very first of the so called British ‘pub rock’ bands of the early 1970s. Along with their contemporaries, such as the seminal Dr Feelgood, they were an undoubted influence on the English Punk scene, which was right around the corner.

This compilation features three previously unreleased BBC sessions, all of which were recorded for John Peel’s Radio 1 show. Included here are two tracks (3 & 6) which have never been released before in any form. These tracks have been mastered from the original BBC transcription tapes (tracks 5-12) and from good quality copies where the original masters were unavailable (tracks 1-4).

These classic archive recordings, which sound as fresh and exciting today as they did in the pre-Punk era, are now finally released with the full agreement of the band.

RICK WAKEMAN Live At The BBC (HUXO85) [Release date 26.02.07]

Following his departure from Yes, Rick Wakeman launched his very successful solo career, and went on to release several albums which achieved millions of sales.

Released here by full agreement with Rick Wakeman, this double CD features two 1976 BBC recordings from Rick and his band, The English Rock Ensemble.

Disc 1 showcases a previously unreleased BBC Radio 1 ‘In Concert’ performance from London’s Hammersmith Odeon. This includes an extended version of ‘Catherine Howard’, which will be of particular interest to fans & collectors as this track, complete with extended guitar solo, has never appeared on an official live recording before now.

Disc 2 contains the complete ‘Old Grey Whistle Test’ TV recording. Only part of this concert was originally broadcast by the BBC.

The 16 page CD booklet includes extensive liner notes, including comments from Rick, plus full recording details, and rare period photographs.

  SOFT MOUNTAIN Soft Mountain (HUXO84) [Release date 30.01.07]

Legendary Soft Machine veterans Elton Dean and Hugh Hopper joined forces in 2003 with wildly creative keyboardist/composer Hoppy Kamiyama and master drummer, Yoshida Tatsuya to create Soft Mountain. Their debut recording is now released here for the first time.

Elton Dean & Hugh Hopper are well known amongst jazz rock fans. In addition to forming half of the ‘classic’ Soft Machine line-up (with Robert Wyatt & Mike Ratledge) they have also worked with Brotherhood of Breath, Keith Tippett & Long John Baldry's Bluesology (Dean) and Stomu Yamashta, Kevin Ayers & Isotope (Hopper).

This limited edition digi-pack features a liner note from Hugh Hopper.

Robert Wyatt formed Matching Mole in 1972, shortly after he left Soft Machine and just before launching his solo career. Matching Mole bore some similarities to his later work with Soft Machine. In fact, Wyatt came up with the name 'Matching Mole' as a subtle pun on the French translation of 'Soft Machine' - 'machine molle'.

'On The Radio' is a compilation of rare BBC recordings, including 3 John Peel studio sessions and a live concert. The band includes Dave Sinclair (ex Caravan), Phil Miller (Hatfield & The North and National Health), Bill MacCormick and Dave MacRae

This special 'digi-pack' format features an original cover photograph by Robert Wyatt, who also compiled the running order. The accompanying 12 page CD booklet features extensive liner notes by Matching Mole bassist, Bill MacCormick, plus rare period photo's and comprehensive recording details.

 

Bridget St. John was one of the first acts to be signed to John Peel’s Dandelion Record label, in 1969. Bridget went on to record 3 albums for Dandelion (one of which was produced and scored by Pink Floyd collaborator, Ron Geesin. Bridget also contributed some vocals for Kevin Ayers’ ‘Shooting At The Moon’ album.

In 1974, Bridget signed to Chrysalis Records and released her 4th album, Jumblequeen. This was a great folk-rock album, produced by Leo Lyons of the band Ten Years After. The album includes support from excellent musicians including the folk guitarist Stefan Grossman, Chick Churchill (Ten Years After) and Mike Giles (King Crimson). It also features harmony vocals from Beverley Martin.
 

Eggs Over Easy are considered by many fans and critics to be a legendary and hugely influential group. They are widely acknowledged as the band which launched the entire British pub-rock scene. A scene which arguably paved the way for Punk Rock.

The all-American ‘Eggs’ originally arrived in the U.K in 1970. During their extensive touring, they perfected their signature blend of laid-back country-rock and straight-ahead, driving rock & roll that served as the template for the entire pub-rock movement.

Just before they split, Eggs Over Easy recorded their lone album, Good ‘n’ Cheap, in 1972. This album, produced by Link Wray and the Eggs, is now thought of as a classic.

 

Clint Black is a Country Music traditionalist from Texas and was one of the first artists to kick-start the mass-market popularity of Country in the 1990s.

This CD pairs Clint Black’s classic debut LP, Killin’ Time, with its impressive follow-up, Put Yourself In My Shoes.

The Grimms third and final album, 'Sleepers', was originally released in 1976 and is now reissued here on CD for the first time. This disc has been digitally reproduced from the original master tapes and includes eleven previously un-issued bonus tracks, all of which are taken from the original LP recording sessions.

The bonus tracks include the first ever recording of the Neil Innes/Rutles tune, 'I Must Be In Love'. Another bonus track, 'Mouth', is notable for being the only song ever fully composed and sung by Roger McGough.

The accompanying 16 page CD booklet includes original LP artwork, rare group photographs and extensive liner notes, including interviews with the band members.

 

There can be little more exciting or rewarding than listening to a band playing live and firing on all cylinders at the absolute peak of its powers, and the live performances presented here by Nucleus are no exception.

They capture the group in arguably its finest incarnation right at the start of its long career, exhibiting a staggeringly high level of musical discipline matched by an equally impressive ability to improvise and solo.


The performances on this CD were recorded live in Europe in 1970 & 1971 and draw on material that was to be found on the band's first two LPs, 'Elastic Rock' & 'We'll Talk About It Later'. At the time 'Elastic Rock' attracted comparisons with Miles Davis's work of the period such as In A Silent Way and Bitches Brew, which incorporated rock influences, but the Nucleus album was actually was recorded ahead of these works and Carr has always been keen to distance the band from these comparisons.

The accompanying full colour 12 page CD booklet includes rare group photographs and extensive liner notes, including interviews with the band members.

 

The Nashville country rock group, Barefoot Jerry, evolved out of Area Code 615, after that band had dissolved in 1970. 

Barefoot Jerry released several acclaimed albums between 1971 & 1977, all of which featured an ever-changing line-up of top Nashville musicians. Guitarist Wayne Moss remained the one constant member, (having previously played with Brenda Lee's backing band in the early '60s and later featuring on Bob Dylan's Blonde on Blonde).

The band's final two albums now appear together on this CD, which has been digitally reproduced from the original master tapes. The accompanying 12 page CD booklet features full lyrics to every track, plus reproductions of the sleeve artwork from both original LPs.
 

Connie Smith's first two LPs were originally released in 1965 and are now reissued here together on one CD for the first time. Her debut album, included on this CD, was recently given a 5 star rating by ‘All Music Guide’, who said the LP “features her blowing through the Nashville Sound production like a down-home Streisand fronting The Lennon Sisters”

This new CD includes Connie’s debut single, ‘Once a Day’, which hit the top of the Country charts, reigning as number one for eight weeks. Smith's follow-up, ‘Then and Only Then’, also featured here, reached number 4 in the charts.

Connie Smith became a member of the ‘Grand Ole Opry’ in 1965. She continues to perform with the Opry and in 1998 returned with her first LP in many years.

This ‘2 on 1’ CD includes the original artwork and sleeve notes from both original LPs, along with rare photographs and new, updated liner notes.

Skid Row was formed in Ireland in 1967 by bassist & songwriter Brush Shiels. The band also featured Phil Lynott on vocals, the 17 year old Gary Moore on guitar and Noel Bridgeman on drums.

Phil Lynott left after recording the band’s debut single, and went on to form Thin Lizzy. The band continued as a trio, with Gary Moore, Brush Shiels & Noel Bridgeman. Eventually, Gary Moore also left, and went on to become one of rock music’s most acclaimed guitarists.

Skid Row recorded two ultra-rare singles in 1969. These were only ever released in Ireland, on the independent ‘Song Records’ label. Phil Lynott was the vocalist on the A side of that first single. It is his earliest and rarest recording. The B side was sung by Gary Moore, who also handled vocal duties on the A side of the second single.

All 4 sides of both singles are now released here on CD for the first time. Also included on this CD is the group’s powerful live show, recorded in London by the BBC in 1971. This recording captured the band at the peak of their improvisational powers as a concert act.
 

Robyn Hitchcock has the lyrical vision of a latter-day Syd Barrett and is one of England's most enduring contemporary singer/songwriters and live performers. 

'This Is The BBC' was compiled by Robyn himself and features the best of his BBC radio sessions, recorded between 1995 & 1999. 

This compilation features unreleased versions of many favourite Hitchcock originals, along with Robyn's unique interpretations of Bob Dylan's 'It Takes A Lot To Laugh, It Takes A Train To Cry' and the traditional folk tune, 'Polly On The Shore'.

The accompanying 12 page full colour booklet includes photos and paintings by Robyn, song lyrics and an original Robyn Hitchcock poem.

Kevin Ayers is one of Rock's most important innovators, helping to launch Soft Machine, as their original bassist/vocalist, and later working with noted progressive musicians like Mike Oldfield and Steve Hillage.

This 2 CD set of BBC radio sessions, compiled with the help of Kevin Ayers, tracks Kevin’s discography from 1970 (when his band included his former Soft Machine friends) through to 1976. 

Featured here are several previously unissued recordings, including the earliest surviving example of Kevin’s post-Soft Machine output.

Among the musicians featured with Ayers on this compilation include Robert Wyatt, Mike Oldfield, Mike Ratledge, Andy Summers, Hugh Hopper, Lol Coxhill, David Bedford, Elton Dean, Archie Leggett, Ollie Halsall & Zoot Money.

The accompanying 16 page full colour booklet includes comprehensive liner notes, plus a brief note from Kevin Ayers, full recording details and previously unseen photographs.

Tom T. Hall became known as ‘the Storyteller’ for his brilliantly realised tales of small-town America. His songs are three-minute snapshots of ordinary people’s lives, written with exceptional wit, insight and humanity.  

Many musicians have covered his songs (most notably Jeannie C. Riley with the 1968 hit, ‘Harper Valley P.T.A.’) - and he also has racked up several solo hits. 

Between 1971 and 1976, he had six number one Country hits, including his classic, ‘The Year That Clayton Delaney Died’, which is included here. 

This CD pairs two of his best albums: 1971’s In Search Of A Song (rightly regarded as his masterpiece), and The Rhymer And Other Five And Dimers from 1973. 

Both of these LPs are now released here on CD for the first time. 

For aficionados of the exotic and the obscure, there can be nothing better than discovering a forgotten gem from a past era. Rock’s rich legacy is littered with buried treasures, none more so than this magnificent country rock nugget by Roger Morris, First Album. 

Originally known only to a handful of collectors and experts, this record later came to the attention of many fans after being championed by a small group of music critics. In fact, this is a classic album, a work steeped in roots-y bucolic splendour, real ‘sons of the pioneers’ stuff with more than a hint of The Band. 

Recorded in the UK in late 1971, First Album was a fine addition to the small but burgeoning British country rock scene that encompassed the likes of Matthews Southern Comfort, Quiver, Help Yourself, and Brinsley Schwarz. 

This is the first time this album has ever been released on CD. This issue boasts an additional four bonus tracks, which were all recorded a year after the original LP. The accompanying 12 page booklet includes comprehensive liner notes and full lyrics to every track. 

This is a live session recorded for the BBC at London's Paris Theatre 
on March 11th 1971. John Peel introduced the concert as being by 
"Soft Machine and Heavy Friends". 

This is a unique recording in that, for this BBC session, the band augmented 
and fragmented and performed with other great jazz musicians, including 
Ronnie Scott on tenor sax.

The accompanying 12 page colour booklet includes brief notes from Robert Wyatt, Hugh Hopper and Elton Dean, who all recall their own memories of this recording. Also featured in the booklet are further extensive liner notes and band photographs.
 

The Violent Femmes formed in 1981 in Milwaukee. The following year, they supported The Pretenders on tour, after Chrissie Hynde & James Honeyman Scott had ‘discovered’ them busking in the local streets.

The trio then released their eponymous debut LP - a masterpiece of minimal, mostly acoustic, Americana which borrowed from influences as diverse as 50s rock’n’roll, doo-wop, gospel, old-time folk music, The Velvet Underground and punk. That album eventually went on to achieve platinum status.

By 1991, their 10th anniversary, the Femmes had five successful studio albums and a ‘best of’ compilation under their belt. During the summer of ’91, the band played a sell-out tour of the UK including one show at London’s Town & Country Club. That concert was recorded by the BBC and is now released here for the first time.

This CD, which includes a great version of their classic anthem ‘Blister In The Sun’, captures the essence of the band live, and the powerful relationship with its audience.

The accompanying 12 page booklet includes comprehensive liner notes, rare photographs and full recording details.
 

DEKE LEONARD'S ICEBERG Wireless (HUX064)[Release date 28.03.05]

Deke Leonard first came to prominence as the lead guitarist in the legendary
Welsh group, Man. He is now into his 4th decade of touring and recording.

During the mid 70s, between stints with Man, Deke formed his own band, Iceberg. They toured extensively throughout Europe and the UK and released two albums; ‘Iceberg' and 'Kamikaze'.

Wireless’ is a compilation of three radio sessions recorded by this band between 1972 & ’74. The first two sessions (tracks 1-7) were recorded in Europe. The third session (tracks 8-11) was recorded for John Peel’s Radio 1 show.
 

ELTON DEAN & SOPHIA DOMANCICH  Avant (HUX063)
[Release date 28.03.05]

Former Soft Machine sax-man Elton Dean began his professional career with Long John Baldry’s Bluesology in 1967. He later helped to form the Keith Tippett sextet before going on to play a crucial role in Soft Machine between 1969 &1972.

The French pianist Sophia Domancich has worked with Elton on and off over the past 20 years. During this time, she has become closely associated with the Canterbury scene and has played with most of the key figures of the genre, including Pip Pyle, Hugh Hopper, Richard Sinclair, Phil Miller & Didier Malherbe.

‘Avant’ features a recording of a live concert which the duo performed in France last year. This fully improvised show was the first time they had ever performed as a duo. 
 

PIP PYLE's EQUIP OUT  Instants (HUX062) [Release date 15.11.04]

Pip Pyle was a key figure in the Canterbury Music scene. In fact, as a founder member of Hatfield And the North and National Health, he deserves mention as one of the greatest progressive rock drummers. 

In 1994, his band, Equip’ Out, performed a live show in Paris which is now released here for the first time.   This particular line-up (of Pip, Elton Dean, Patrice Meyer & Paul Roger) only ever did a handful of gigs.   

The accompanying 8 page booklet includes a brief note from Pip Pyle, plus rare artist photos.  
 

Neil Innes is one of the most important figures in British musical comedy.  He has the rare ability of a side-splitting satirist who can also write perfectly straightforward, catchy pop songs. 

Neil originally found fame in the mid 1960s with The Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band.  After the demise of the Bonzos, he went on to work with, among others, Eric Idle and Monty Python. 

This CD includes two of his best loved solo albums, released together on one CD for the first time.  The 8 page booklet features extensive liner notes and rare photographs. 
 

This is the second of two volumes containing Family's previously unreleased BBC Radio 1 sessions.

Covering the period from early 1971 up to mid 1973, these recorded sessions are mastered from the original BBC transcription tapes and feature one of Britain's finest bands playing in the studio, but with an extra edge that is normally only captured at live performances.

This is a brand new recording from the formidable free jazz quartet of Alex Maguire, Elton Dean, Fred Baker & Liam Genockey.

Psychic Warrior is the first album from this quartet and the accompanying 8 page booklet includes liner notes by Alex Maguire and rare band photographs.

Kokomo's unique brand of harmony-soaked soul funk music made them one of the most exciting attractions on the burgeoning UK gig circuit of the mid 1970s.

Often compared favourably to The Average White Band, Kokomo were perhaps the most authentic funk band Britain produced during the 1970s.

'To Be Cool', perfectly captures the spirit and flavour of Kokomo. Recorded live in their rehearsal studios before they had signed a record contract, this CD is comprised primarily of previously unreleased tracks, all of which showcase the band's staggering accomplishments as musicians and vocalists.
 

This is the first of two volumes containing Family's previously unreleased BBC Radio 1 sessions. Featured here are several versions of tracks never before available on CD. This includes the only official release of their interpretation of the old blues number, 'I Sing Um The Way I Feel'.

Covering the period from late 1968 up to mid-1969 these recorded sessions are mastered from the original BBC transcription tapes and feature one of Britain's finest bands playing in the studio, but with an extra edge that is normally only captured at live performances.
 

Gypsy were one of the great attractions at the Isle Of Wight 1969 Festival.

A couple of years later, they released their debut eponymous album which drew favourable comparisons with Buffalo Springfield and Moby Grape.

The Romany Collection brings together the long awaited reissue of Gypsy's first album, plus both sides of their debut single and six previously unreleased studio tracks.

This album was compiled with the full co-operation of the band, who provided photographs for the 8 page booklet and assisted with the extensive liner notes.
 

Dreamtime was formed in 1982 as a jazz trio featuring Nick Evans, Gary Curson and Jim LeBaigue. However in the same year it augmented to a quintet with the addition of Jim Dvorak and Roberto Bellatalla.

A couple of years later this sextet was born, when the band augmented yet again with the addition of Keith Tippett on piano.

'Cathanger '86' is chronologically speaking Dreamtime's second album although it is the third to be released, coming after 'Zen Fish' in 1998.

The accompanying 8 page booklet features photographs from the band's own archive and liner notes by trombonist, Nick Evans.
 

Formed in London in 1969, Help Yourself released four very fine albums which drew heavily on the sound of West Coast outfits like Buffalo Springfield and Quicksilver Messenger Service.

In 1973 they began recording their fifth album. However, these sessions were never completed, the album was never released, and the band split later that year.

That legendary 'lost 5th album' has been highly sought after by collectors ever since.

Appropriately titled '5', it is now released here for the first time. The cover features an original illustration by the legendary Rick Griffin and the booklet includes a liner note from Malcolm Morley.

In the late 1960s, Mickey Jupp formed Legend - a band which helped lay the groundwork for pub rock. When this group split, Mickey embarked on a solo career, eventually signing to Stiff Records.

This compilation of BBC recordings represents Mickey at his most active during the late 1970s. Included here is the only known recording of the track, 'Wrong Food'.

The booklet includes lengthy liner notes and several rare, previously unpublished photographs.

Fronted by singer/songwriter Nick Lowe, Brinsley Schwarz were pioneers of the 1970s so called 'Pub Rock' movement.

This is the second volume (following HUX023) of the band's BBC recordings and features the best of their live and studio sessions from 1971-75, as compiled by Brinsley Schwarz. All of these recordings are previously unreleased, and seven titles have never been released before in any form.

Recorded in London on 21st March 1976 by the BBC, this concert includes new material as well as old stage favourites, 'House Of The King' and 'Hocus Pocus'. Fans of Focus will welcome this latest addition to the band's recorded output, newcomers will be able to catch up on the later and less documented period of this band's history.

This is the 50th release on the Hux label, but it's our first brand new album (as opposed to a reissue or an unearthed archive recording). Sea Of Infinity was recorded last year and confirms that Dean's playing is as sublime as ever.

Cover design and booklet notes by Elton Dean.

This double CD of Pentangle's BBC recordings is comprised primarily of rare and previously unheard tracks.

Here at last, with previously unreleased songs among classics from all six of their albums, is a representative history of the Pentangle at the BBC.

The accompanying 12 page booklet includes comprehensive liner notes, a full discography of Pentangle's BBC recordings, and several rare photographs.

Gary Boyle formed the jazz-rock band, Isotope, in 1973, recruiting three other stalwarts from the jazz field; Nigel Morris, Brian Miller & Jeff Clyne (ex Nucleus). Gary and Nigel had previously been part of Stomu Yamash'ta's band, East Wind. Prior to that, Gary had worked with Dusty Springfield, Brian Auger & Julie Driscoll.

Following the successful release earlier this year of HUX037, this second volume now completes the set of Soft Machine's BBC sessions.

Recorded between 1971 & 1974, this double CD includes 3 Peel sessions, plus one session recorded for BBC Radio 3's Jazz In Britain' programme. With the exception of the first two tracks here, none of these recordings have ever been released before.

In 1966, Joe Cocker recruited his backing group and christened them the Grease Band. When Cocker went on to his solo career, the band kept the name and recorded their debut album in 1971.

This was a wonderfully atmospheric record, marrying acoustic and electric instruments and styles - country, blues, soul, folk and R&B - and was likened by many critics at the time as a British 'Music from Big Pink'.

This album is now reissued on CD for the first time and is rounded off by a BBC session from April '71, which includes a bonus unreleased Henry McCullough number, 'Believe In What You Believe In'.
 

Gene Vincent may have had only had one really big hit, 'Be-Bop-a-Lula', but his place as one of the great early rock & roll singers is secure, due to a wealth of fine recordings that rate among the best rockabilly of all time. The leather-clad, limping, greasy-haired singer was also one of rock's original bad boys.

In 1970 he staged a comeback and released a new album, 'I'm Back And I'm proud', on the Dandelion Records label.

The first 12 tracks on this CD are taken from this record. The four bonus tracks were recorded for Johnnie Walker's Radio 1 programme the following year. Gene tragically died a few days after recording this session, aged just 36.

British saxophonist Elton Dean has long been the spearhead of free jazz in England. He began his professional career with Long John Baldry's Bluesology (*) in 1967, then went on to help form the Keith Tippett sextet before becoming a key member of Soft Machine in 1969.

In the mid 70s he formed 'Ninesense', one of the most influential cutting-edge jazz bands of the period. The original line-up of the band included the great trumpeter, Mongezi Feza, one of the South African exiles who came to London as a member of Chris McGregor¹s Blue Notes.

This album is comprised of two sessions recorded by BBC Radio 3's Jazz In Britain programme and contains the first recording of the band, as well as almost the last. It has a total running time of 55 minutes and the accompanying 8 page booklet features a brief note from Elton Dean, plus extensive liner notes by The Times' jazz critic, Alyn Shipton.
 

Billie Jo Spears achieved several big country hits during the '70s (including 'Blanket On The Ground' & 'What I've Got In Mind') thanks to a sultry, bluesy voice that made her a perfect torch balladeer.

She also enjoyed great success in the States with songs like 'Mr. Walker, It's All Over', which gave her a Billboard #4 hit and is now now revived in this packaging of her two early LPs. These two albums (originally released in 1969 & 1972) represent the birth of Billie Jo's career. Both titles have been digitally remastered and are now released on CD for the first time.

The accompanying 8 page booklet features extensive liner notes, including the sleeve notes from the original LPs, and rare photographs.
 

Songs for Swingin' Survivors was first released in autumn 1965. It was never subsequently reissued and original vinyl copies now fetch upwards of £100 on e-bay.

This debut is also notable as one of the first UK singer/songwriter folk albums in the contemporary style pioneered earlier in the U.S. by Bob Dylan.

Comparisons with early period Donovan are also perhaps inevitable. Donovan cited Mick Softley as a major influence and Softley actually wrote a few songs which were covered by Donovan. Notably 'The War Drags On', which Donovan included on his 'Universal Soldier' EP, and which is featured here in its original version.

The accompanying 8 page booklet features extensive liner notes, including Mick Softley's own note from the original LP, and rare photographs.

As co-founders of Steeleye Span, Gay & Terry Woods were pivotal figures in the Irish folk scene of the late 60s. During this period, they also recorded and toured with Sweeney's Men & Dr Strangely Strange.

Between '74 & '76, they recorded three albums for Polydor Records. 'Lake Songs From Red Waters' was compiled with the help of Gay & Terry and features their personal favourites from this period.

Gryphon were formed in 1971 and had a style which made them unique on the UK rock scene of the early 70s, with their Crumhorn solos making a refreshing change from the usual guitar sound of the day.

This album was compiled with full assistance from the band and features their two BBC Radio 1 sessions, recorded in 1972 & 1974. Also included here is their single, 'Glastonbury Carol', which was originally commissioned for the closing titles of the film, 'Glastonbury Fayre'. The master tapes to this track had been missing for the past 30 years and were only unearthed recently.
 

Wreckless Eric recorded his first Peel session in 1977, when his band included Ian Dury on drums and Davey Payne on sax. 25 years later, Eric made a solo, acoustic appearance live on the Jonathan Ross show on Radio 2.

This album features both of these performances, plus the best of Eric's BBC sessions recorded in between. That includes a second appearance on the Peel show, plus sessions recorded for the Saturday Live programme, Mark Radcliffe & Andy Kershaw's Radio 3 show.
 

The doyen of British jazz-rock groups, Nucleus was formed in 1969 by trumpeter Ian Carr. He was joined by Chris Spedding, John Marshall and Karl Jenkins. (The latter two went on to join Soft Machine a few years later.)

The release of these BBC recordings shows both the original line-up and a much later edition of the band playing at their fiery best for a radio audience. All in all, a delight for Nucleus buffs, and a fine introduction to the band¹s work for newcomers.
 

Soft Machine's complete BBC sessions will finally see the light of day this year.

They will be released across two Hux albums, which have both been compiled with the help of the band, who have been fully involved at every stage of development.

Volume 2 (Peel Sessions 1971-1973) will follow later this year.

Gene Watson has always been a favourite amongst fans of straight, no-frills country music. His rich, mellow voice is magnificently expressive and instantly recognisable.

The two albums on this CD, drawn from the most commercially successful period of his career, certainly capture Watson in his prime. Love In The Hot Afternoon (1975), his debut on US Capitol, followed hot on the heels of his first national hits, while Paper Rosie (1977) was another early classic and the album that introduced him to British audiences.

Now two of Gene's classic, long-deleted early albums are brought together on this CD, offering another chance to enjoy the company of one of country music's greatest voices. Both of these albums have been digitally remastered and now appear together on CD for the first time.

Although hardly a household name, Ian Gomm has an impressive track record in the music business. He's been treading the boards for over 35 years and has worked with a staggering variety of musicians, from classical rockers Sky to country diva, Nanci Griffith.

He's probably best remembered for the five years he spent as guitarist, singer and songwriter with the quite wonderful Brinsley Schwarz, during which time he and Nick Lowe co-wrote several great pop songs, including 'Cruel To Be Kind'.

In 1979, Ian had his first solo hit in the States with 'Hold On', and he and his band set out on an extensive tour of the U.S.

The concert on this CD was recorded during this tour and is now released here for the first time. The accompanying 8 page booklet features comprehensive liner notes, including an interview with Ian, and several rare photographs from the Gomm archive.
 

Malcolm Morley was an original member of Sam Apple Pie, before forming Help Yourself, who recorded 4 superb albums between 1971 & 1973.

In 1976, he recorded his only solo album, backed by Ian Gomm (ex-Brinsley Schwarz) and Plummet Airlines.

These master tapes were lost for over 25 years and were unearthed recently by Ian Gomm (who also produced the album) and are now released here for the first time.

The accompanying 8 page booklet features comprehensive liner notes, including an interview with Malcolm, and several rare photographs from Malcolm's own archive.
 

Lew Lewis, one of the maverick characters of the British pub rock boom, first came to prominence as a member of Eddie and the Hot Rods. An electrifying live act, the Hot Rods were well established on the London circuit by the time of the advent of Punk. In March 1976, they found themselves being supported at the Marquee by a young band called The Sex Pistols.

Lewis left the Hot Rods the following year and set about putting together the first line-up of the Lew Lewis Band. He then put together a second band called Lew Lewis Reformer which released an LP, 'Save The Wail' on Stiff Records in 1979. The whole of the original LP appears on this compilation.

Essentially a 'Best Of', this compilation is brimming with taut R&B energy. The live bonus tracks were recorded in June 1977 (tracks 15-18) and July 1979 (tracks 19-21).
 

The Only Ones were formed in 1976 and released their debut single, 'Lovers Of Today', on an independent label. After signing to CBS the following year, the band released the hugely influential single, 'Another Girl Another Planet'.

During this period, The Only Ones recorded four sessions for John Peel and one Radio 1 'In Concert', plus two appearances for BBC TVs 'Old Grey Whistle Test'. This double CD now brings these complete recordings together for the first time.

This compilation has been produced with the help of the band and the extensive liner notes include contributions from John Perry. The accompanying 8 page booklet features full recording details and several band photographs.

"The Only Ones were one of the great bands of their time and they still sound good on this fine summary of their achievements"

Mark Brend, Record Collector (December 2002)
 

Tom McGuinness (ex-Manfred Mann) and Hughie Flint (ex-John Mayall) formed McGuinness Flint in 1969 . Songwriters Benny Gallagher & Graham Lyle, and vocalist Dennis Coulson completed the original line-up.

In later years, the band went through various personnel changes and were joined for a period by Neil Innes, amongst others.

McGuinness Flint enjoyed immediate success, with their first two singles, 'When I'm Dead And Gone' (1970) and 'Malt And Barley Blues' (1971), both reaching the top 5 in the UK charts. Unique recordings of both of these songs are included on this album.

Between 1970 & 1974, McGuinness Flint recorded several sessions for BBC Radio 1. The best of these are now released here for the first time, as compiled by Tom McGuinness.

Ernie Graham began his musical career in the 1960s, when he formed Eire Apparent with Henry McCullogh. The band toured extensively, supporting Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd & Soft Machine.

Eire Apparent disbanded at the end of the 60s and Henry McCullogh went on to form The Grease Band.

Ernie then recorded his eponymous debut album in 1971, recruiting the members of Brinsley Schwarz (including Nick Lowe) and Help Yourself as his backing band. At the time of it's original release, this album drew comparisons with Dylan, The Band and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.

Ernie's complete solo recordings are now released here on CD for the first time; The 1971 album and both sides of the 1979 Stiff single.

In the early 1970s, Bill Nelson released his debut record, the independent 'Northern Dream'. This limited edition collector's item was picked up on by John Peel, who played the whole album on his Radio 1 'Top Gear' show. This attracted the attention of EMI Records, who then signed Bill and his new band, Be Bop Deluxe.

1974 saw the release of the first Be Bop Deluxe album, 'Axe Victim'. The following year they were voted 'Most Promising New Act' in the NME Readers Poll.

Over the next four years, the band released another four studio albums and one live album all but one of which entered the UK album charts. A feat due, in no small part, to the growing technical virtuosity of Nelson's guitar playing.

During this period, they also recorded several sessions for John Peel (released on Hux Records - HUX009) and four live shows for Radio 1's 'In Concert' programme. The best of these live performances are now released on this album, as compiled by Bill Nelson. Bill also contributed the design concept for this album cover.
 

This jazz rock trio formed in Yorkshire in 1970 and comprised Colin Hodgkinson - ex Alexis Korner Band - (bass/vocals), Ron Aspery (sax/piano) & Tony Hicks (drums).

The band attracted a great deal of interest as a result of Hodgkinson's unique full chording bass technique. A virtuoso style which has been hugely influential ever since.

This album features three complete BBC Radio 1 sessions, from 1973-1974. Two of these were recorded for Bob Harris and one for John Peel.
 

Duffy Power has long been regarded by Blues critics and cognoscenti as one of the most compelling British singers and songwriters of his generation.

This new compilation brings together several BBC radio sessions - recorded between 1968 & 1973 - which had previously been feared lost or wiped. Also included is one bonus session from 1994.

None of these recordings have ever been released before.
 

Gryphon are fondly remembered as one of the most unique and interesting British bands of the Progressive Rock era.

The five albums they produced between 1973 and 1977 showed their evolution from an all-acoustic medieval music quartet to a Progressive pop band.

That unique blend of medieval music and progressive rock can be heard to wonderful effect on this new album.

This CD features two previously unreleased BBC concerts, recorded in 1974 & 1975.
 

As leader of the seminal 60s band, Lovin' Spoonful, John Sebastian established himself as one of the great singer songwriters.

When the Spoonful disbanded, John began his solo career (turning down an invitation to join Crosby, Stills & Nash) and in 1969, his performance was one of the highlights of the Woodstock Festival.

In 1981, John played a fantastic solo set at The Cambridge Folk Festival. He returned again three years later to perform another stunning concert. Both shows, recorded by the BBC for broadcast on Radio 1, are released here for the first time.
 

The Blues Band was formed in 1979 by former Manfred Mann colleagues Paul Jones & Tom McGuinness, along with slide guitarist Dave Kelly (ex-John Dummer Blues Band & Rocksalt).

Bassist Gary Fletcher (Wildcats) and drummer Hughie Flint (formerly of McGuinness Flint) completed this line up of impeccable blues men.

In 1982 they played a blistering show at the Paris Theatre in London, featuring Hughie's replacement, ex-Family drummer, Rob Townsend.

This awesome concert was recorded by the BBC for broadcast on Radio 1 and is released here for the first time.

Also included is a bonus track, the live favourite 'Maggie's Farm', recorded in 1981.
 

 

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