Primitive Sound System and Bill Dolan at D.C.'s - Thursday May 7th from 9PM - Closing

Hello Y'all,
A few weeks ago was Record Store Day. Now that is a holiday I can celebrate. So I packed up the family and off we went to the City. We took our six year old son to Generation Records on Thompson Street. We walked around for quite a while when suddenly he yelled, "I KNOW WHAT I WANT!" Two minutes later he was back with a CD in his hand. He could have chosen anything. His decision. Anything at all, he knows what he likes and he has a pretty good range of genres to pick from. So what did he choose? Green Day - Dookie! Not a bad first record for a six year old. He opted for the CD since he has a player in his room. I grabbed a few 7-inches and off we went to the next store. Some time after eating at Panna II we parted ways so he could go to the park and I could dig deep into the boxes at Big City Records. All in all I'd say it was a pretty good Record Store Door.

- pat.

Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan & Joe Raaen and of course Larry The Hunter will be our mixologist
Thursday May 7th 9PM to Closing
D.C.'s Tavern
505 8th Street
Between Jefferson and Madison
BACK IN BACK
Hoboken, New Jersey
PH: 201-792-5550
http://www.dcstavern.com
http://myspace.com/dcstavern

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Records and descriptions you can trust...

Bo Diddley - "Im High Again" b/w "Another Sugar Daddy" (Checker cat. 1200)
Bo Diddley - "Do The Frog" b/w "We're Gonna Get Married" (Checker cat. 1475)
You don't know DIDDLEY! Bo Diddley was one of the first musicians I was exposed to as a kid. My Dad had this amazing LP with Bo on the cover threatening you with his guitar. He was turned slightly, full of attitude and It was simply called, Bo Diddley. Like any great Super-hero, his secret identity was larger than life. What I loved about the cover was that Bo looked like a such a real Nerd. There was something that much more powerful about him because of it. Massive, bookish and badass. He was hiding something with that look and like the Hulk when it came out there was no escaping it. Unlike most musicians, Bo remained completely relevant until is death. Sometime in the 80's I picked up a Bo Diddley record called, "Where It All Began." It was pretty beat up and only cost a buck or two (since I have replaced it with a better copy which has the die-cut cover intact). When I got it home and dropped the needle... my jaw dropped. I had no idea Bo could be so progressive. I certainly felt like I had dropped the ball on knowing Bo. Sometime in the late 90's the LPs "The Black Gladiator" and "Big Bad Bo" got reissued and "Where It All Began sat nicely between them.

These two releases pre-date all three of these LPs. "I'm High Again" is from 1968 and "Do the Frog" from 1966.
The beat on "I'm High Again" jumps out of the grooves. Hammering from the first second. Bo knew exactly what to do. How to change with the times and not only stay current but actually be a part of the younger sounds around him. There are psychedelic guitar effects bubbling under the surface throughout explodes just before it ends. The sounds are like several guitars being swung around over head. Swirling and out of step with each other. Bo compares his relationship to being on a high and casually tosses off the comparison to LSD. There is a simplicity that makes him hip and not come across like your uncle joining a discussion about "the pot." GO! BO! "Another Sugar Daddy" is easily as good and will see the needle as much as "I'm High..." the sound here is a bit more of a throw back but not too far back. The beats are funky and the back-up vocals are raunchy, sexy and soulful. "Do The Frog" is just crazy good in the way any "do the _ _ _ _ _" (you fill in the blank) song is. This one literally sounds like it was recorded in a Garage. I know the organ sound in the back but I can't quite place it. The drums could be a tambourine and a wooden box but there are drum rolls toward the end. A lot of drum rolls. HOLY SHIT THIS IS GREAT!

Thee Midniters - "Land Of A Thousand Dances" Part I & II (Chattahoochee Records cat. CH 666)
I love the re-issue that Norton Records did for these guys a couple years ago. "Jump, Jive and Harmonize" is simply brilliant. A true stand out on the LP is the bands version of "Land of A Thousand Dances" and I couldn't be happier to have stumbled upon this copy. Part two features some of the wildest guitar playing anywhere and this band is definitely wild. There is no question that this is live and unfortunately the band struggles to be heard over the noise and screams. The guitar is pure perfection cutting through the din with a sound that is not only raw Garage rage but Soulful and Jazzy as well. Side two is really just a showcase for the guitar but the band keeps things moving enough to make this worth playing to get some drunks out on the dance floor and play human bumper cars.

Oscar Weathers - "The Spoiler" (Top and Bottom Records cat. 405)
I love records that have a big sound. This is one of those records. Vibes, soft and sweet back-up vocals, horns and pleading lead vocals. Somewhere there is an action movie that sadly does NOT have this on the soundtrack. Maybe he already has, but I am surprised Quentin Tarantino hasn't grabbed this up for one of his films. The song lopes along and never really changes but nor does it have to. just enough of everything to keep things moving, shoulders shaking slowly and eyes closed and lost in the sound.

The Coasters - "Charlie Brown" b/w "Three Cool Cats" (Atco Records cat. 45-6132)
The Coasters are another early lesson from my Dad's record collection and equally revered as Bo Diddley, Johnny Cash or Donald Byrd. Three Cool Cats has always been a favorite and I could be ant more excited to have it on a glorious 7 inch. This is raw and simple. the drums are as stead as a metronome. The guitar is lounge Jazz sly, the congas pop when an accent is needed and we are treated to a brief sax solo that lifts everything up for a moment. Of course the vocals are just stellar. Like a favorite food or even a favorite pair of socks some sounds always sound pleasing to us, the Coasters vocals ALWAYS sound pleasing to me. These guys are endlessly cool even when telling us so which is really difficult to do. Sorry unless you are in the Coasters you just ain't this cool.

Ray Rodriguez - "Workout" Part I & II (Ghetto Records cat. G - 010)
Ahh... BOOGALOO BABY! Workout part two is one of the best Descarga / Boo-ga-loo tracks I have ever heard. I think I have this on a comp somewhere but I KNOW it doesn't sound this good. Ghetto was Joey Bataan's short lived imprint and he acted as musical director on this masterpiece. and This is one of those tracks that you want playing every time you walk into a room. The band is sharp as hell and knows it. The first solo is a beautiful sax solo that doesn't just try to impress with force but engages in subtle interplay with the baritone sax. Together they create an atmosphere layered on top of the rest of the band. The track is so good that without the solos it would be great. With the solos it is one of the best records I have ever heard. There are a lot of individual reasons this is so good but one element stands out throughout the duration, knowledge. This band knows the material, knows how to play it and knows that we will notice if they aren't putting their hearts and souls into every beat. The title says it all and I definitely need to catch my breath.

Doc Bagby - "Mix It Up" (VIM - Variety In Music cat. Vim 517)
Sadly I don't know enough about Doc Bagby. I will certainly make an effort to find more after picking up this 45. "Mix It Up" punches you in the face with heavy as hell organ, drums, congas and horns. Everything is pushed to eleven and Doc Bagby seems intent on keeping that way. He does take an organ solo at one point but this is a Garage Instrumental not a Jazz side. Some how the sound is both familiar and unique. The sheer force of the track is impressive. This is like the Peter Gunn theme but played with the intent to leave your bloody body in a back alley or pushed off the dock not to save you.

Lefties Soul Connection - "Code 99" b/w "Buckaloose" (Melting Pot Music cat. 063)
Lefties Soul Connection - "Have Love Will Travel" featuring Flomega b/w "Here Come The Girls" featuring Flomega (Melting Pot Music cat. 075)
There is a very small place where Garage Rock and Soul / R&B meet. When the combo is done right it is brilliant. Lefties Soul Connection are a favorite Organ New Funk band of mine and I was pretty excited when I saw that they were covering "Have Love...." These guys get it. There is enough kick to the guitar and drums to keep this parked in the Garage but the organ swings from Garage to Soul throughout. What almost always kills any attempt at a cover, especially one so rooted in history, is the vocals. Here that is not an issue even for a second. Singing, screaming and leading us to the asylum, Flomega, rips through this classic and can certainly hold his own with the best.

The Nu-Trons - "Beat" b/w "Searchin" (Eldee Records cat. 45-85)
Not sure if this is the same Nu-Trons that I have doing "Tension" on Federal but that doesn't matter to my ears. This is easily now one of my favorite guitar instrumentals. The guitar quietly and gently introduces the drums but the drums are certainly not shy. The drums are obviously on display here (you did catch the name, right). There is an equally soft spoken sax solo before the drums take a short aggressive break before laying back into the mix. The band locks back in and takes this groove to the end. Great stuff.

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan and Joe Raaen at D.C.'s Tavern - Thursday April 2nd - 9PM to closing

Hello Y'all,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE 45 RPM RECORD!
60 years old and just as alluring as ever. I can only hope to be so desired at 60. There is no other material possession that intrigues me more. The thought of acquiring more 45's is just as exciting today as it was when I bought my first one. Speaking of, after stumbling on the wonderful Dust and Grooves photo blog and making suggestions to Eilon about other collectors, as well as passing along his information to people I thought he should document, I was asked if I would participate in his project. It took some convincing but I did agree to allow Eilon and his "soul stealer" to enter my vinyl enriched lair. The goings on were a bit bumpy at first but when my son Hank wandered into my studio things became far more relaxed. I am really glad I got involved and I am very pleased with the photos. I think in all Eilon took about one thousand photos and ask me about a hundred questions. His choices that make up the final presentation are perfect. I happened to click on one of the images on the blog and was jumped out to Eilon's flickr pages which contain tons of great photos of collectors as well. I think this is my favorite un-used photo, a collectors butt classic - http://www.flickr.com/photos/35376065@N06/3368186839/in/set-72157615655567652 There is even a mix that I did for the entry but you need to scroll up to Melvin Van Peebles / Jimmy McGriff track to start from the beginning. Hopefully you enjoy the words as much as the images but I can't seem to get passed Hank's photos.

Pat James Longo - Jersey City N.J. - http://www.dustandgrooves.com/2009/03/pat-james-longo-hoboken-nj.html
Dust & Grooves - http://dustandgrooves.blogspot.com
Dust & Grooves Photo Stream - http://www.flickr.com/photos/35376065@N06

Eilon Paz Photography - http://www.eilonpaz.com

- pat.

Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan & Joe Raaen and of course Larry The Hunter will be our mixologist
Thursday April 2nd 9PM to Closing
D.C.'s Tavern
505 8th Street
Between Jefferson and Madison
BACK IN BACK
Hoboken, New Jersey
PH: 201-792-5550
http://www.dcstavern.com
http://myspace.com/dcstavern

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These records sing the body electric...

Fast 3 - "Brown Bag" b/w "Pig Feet N' Greens" (Soul Grocery cat. SG45001 (Soul Grocery a division of Soul Cookers dedicated to Soul Jazz)

Dave Wilkinson - Guitar
Phil Wilkinson - Organ
Caspar St. Charles - Drums

There is a huge difference between listening to a record at home and playing it out at a bar or club. Records you listen to at home don't necessarily have to effect anyone but yourself. This could mean you jump up from your seat and flail yourself about your studio like a demented monkey or you could just be kicking back with your drink of choice immersing yourself in the sounds as they fill your environment, your ears and your mind. Organ based instrumentals satisfy both of these actions and needs for me. I first saw this explosive piece of wax listed on the wonderful HammandBeat.com website and then jumped as fast and as far as I could to the SoulCookers.com site to give a listen. What I found made me JUMP from my seat and flail myself about like a demented monkey. Side one is a cover of the Boogaloo Joe Jones classic "Brown Bag." The original also features the unmatched and always brilliant Bernard "Pretty" Purdie. That is of course unless you are the Fast 3. These gentlemen take the original to task and do it justice. The playing is sharp, expressive, aggressive and real. Dave Wilkinson seems to toss off the super fast pace guitar lines as if they were as second nature as breathing. The drums are grooving hard and are so precise it could be a loop but the live, "we nailed that shit in one take" feel and his obvious connection to the guitarist and organ are apparent as the band moves as one. After Mr. St. Charles proves his worth we are treated to a break that acts as the organ's introduction. I picture a giant key winding up the organ, after the spring is coiled off we go into equally blinding playing. This is when the organ engulfs you and claims its rightful place at the top of the list of most soulful of instruments. The band falls back into the theme with grace that is usually the result of an extended jam and many, many nights of getting it right. Did I mention this isn't even my favorite side? With a title like "Pig Feet N' Greens" can you really go wrong? Mmmm... this is tasty. The band digs deep into the cookbook and comes up with a four star feast. Equally filled with attitude and cool the band struts through the room shaking hands, dancing with the ladies and eventually sittin' down to a big ol' plate of soul jazz with some funk on the side. The guitar and drums set the pace and from the first soft roll the head starts bobbing. The guitar is not just a side dish. This is one of those delicious appetizers that forces the rest of the meal to step up and impress. And impress the organ does. It would be too easy to toss off the names of the Godfathers, the masters, the geniuses and the giants but why bother? Our man has stepped up to the challenge and is making his self known, Phil Wilkinson, that's who. This is definitely more funk than soul jazz but when the lines get blurred that is when things are really interesting. Oh yeah, and it is limited to 400 copies so the collector / home listener in me was intrigued and satisfied. This goes great with a Dale's Pale Ale or if you find yourself on the dance floor grab a partner.

The Alan Milman Sect - "Punk Rock Christmas" / "Stitches In My Head" / "I Wanna Kill Somebody" b/w "Teen Tour"
One of my favorite questions is "you don't have that?" It is all the way this question is asked that makes it so great. In one version it is a smug ego filled chest thump, "YOU, don't have that?" which obviously means they do and of course you are worthless because you do not. The other is a kind and gentle acknowledgment and then the usual feeling that the person is saddened you don't have it and they want to help you get it. "You don't... have that?" I have only DJ'd with Justin from collectorscum.com a couple of times but he definitely comes from the latter. He specializes in insanely rare Punk records and because of his insanely focused collecting he comes across records we ALL need and then seems happy to get them into the right hands. once again I quote that miserable curmudgeon Robert Cohen of Finyl Vinyl, "records usually end up in the right hands." He should know, he watched it happen for over 20 years. At one of the times I watched Justin DJ he played "Stitches." I originally heard the Urge Overkill version on the "Stull" ep but over the years heard the original. Sadly I never came across one and WORSE yet I had no idea that Bag of Hammers Records had re-issued it. I asked and Justin replied, "You don't... have that?" So, while DJing a couple of months back Justin walked in and handed me a Bag of Hammers copy on yellow vinyl. Like so many records I own this is "one of my favorite records of all time." Spiraling guitar leads off this hammering Garage Punk classic. Milman's voice sounds like he just may have stitches in his throat. Can you really go wrong with a chorus of "I WANT YOU DEAD!" The band pounds away like they just may not know the song but then suddenly they snap to and come together in time for a very noticeable change. Milman spits and yells as he rattles off some famous killers and then declares how much he would like to kill somebody...JUST FOR FUN! This is goddamn punk perfection. This is music that can ignite that desire to run around and destroy things as a teen, though I must admit I still get that feeling even now. Thank you Justin.

Babs Gonzales - "We Ain't Got Integration" b/w "Lonely Me" (Prestige cat. 45-204)
I LOVE Babs Gonzales. I have his book, I have purchased every record I could find (both as a leader and a side man) but most of all I love his voice and his amazing ability to talk / sing and dramatically enhance even the simplest of words. This message may be a little dated but it will always be a reminder of how far we have come as a nation and sadly how low we have been (and still are). I have passed up copies of this over the years because of condition and the price has always been a bit prohibitive but this copy seems unplayed and the price was right. A bouncy sax reminiscent of Louis Jordon jumps out as Babs smiles his way through subject matter that in the hands of a lesser artist would have simply been a dirge and angry turning some listeners off. Babs technique draws the listener in and keeps things from getting preachy. He is very direct but through his style and poetry he gets in your face and you barely notice before you have actually learned something. This was cut in 1961 so Babs name checks the Freedom Riders and runs down the worst the Civil Rights movement was up against. A brilliant way to teach a subject so fueled with emotion. Rap on Babs, rap on.

NPR story on the 1961 Freedom Riders - http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5149667

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Here are a few reviews I wrote that didn't make it to the Dust and Grooves piece:

Herbie Hancock - Hot and Heavy (Star Jazz International LTD cat. SJAZZ 4)
I have a complete run of Herbie Hancock recordings up through 1976's Secrets. Making a connection with an artist or musician is a deep one. Since I was a kid I loved the song "Watermelon Man" and I always hum it when I am in a good mood. Hancock was a young star for Blue Note and grew to become one of the best Progressive Jazz artists ever. I can listen to a Herbie Hancock record everyday. If you have never heard this LP you are missing out on some of the coolest music he made outside of the Jazz genre. There are four of the grooviest rocked up lounge tunes ever and I always try to include at least one of them on mixed tapes just to get someone's reaction. Other favorite Herbie records are Inventions & Dimensions on Blue Note, Fat Albert Rotunda on Warner Brothers, and Thrush and Flood on Columbia. There is also a 7-inch of the song "Crossing" that didn't appear on the album of the same name. But honestly I can't really pick one or even ten, I love them all.

Frankie Stein and his Ghouls - Power Records presents Frankie Stein and his Ghouls - Ghoul Music (Power Records cat. 340)
I LOVE guitar instrumentals. I especially love guitar instrumentals with organ and have titles about monsters, space or vehicles of any kind. This is a similar obsession to food songs, versions of "People Make The World Go Round," "Summertime," "It's Your Thing," train songs and a few others. This LP has one of the best illustrations I have ever seen on a record cover. In Comic Book Confidential William Gaines talks about the cover that finally led to the censoring of comic books. It was a morning rush hour bus ride and everything in the scene looked totally normal until you noticed that one of the strap hangers is a severed hand still gripping the strap. No rider, just the severed hand. I can't imagine what they would have said about this one. Not every song is great but the ones that are have become some of my favorites. As an illustrator I am obviously drawn to LP's like this. I'll buy any record with art by Jack Davis, Don Martin, David Stone Martin, Coop, Charles Burns, Robt. Williams, etc on it. Obviously great designers have also had their way with the LP's jacket and packaging. Some that come to mind are Alex Steinweiss (credited with creating the record album), Milton Glaser, Reid Miles and Francis Wolfe for Blue Note, Barney Bubbles, and a host of others.

The Animated Egg (Alshire cat. SF-5104)
Alshire has the dubious distinction of being home to the 101 Strings LP's. But when they needed to mix it up a little and get a little current they called on the kids. The Animated Egg provided the back beat when needed. It would seem that some where along the line after the "Sounds of Today" release the members convinced the label to release an LP of their own music and damn, what a record it is. Crazy aggressive and a bit trippy too. Truly a great LP from a completely unexpected source.

Alshire Presents Songs of... Hank Williams - a return trip with Modern Sounds with exciting vocals (Alshire cat. S-5136)
Another gem from the vast Alshire catalog. When I first looked at the cover I didn't notice the woman's hand until looking the record over a few times. After I noticed that the young lady was dosing her horse a practically fainted. WINNER! There are some amazing moments on here like "Your Cheating Heart" which has become a regular spin for me. I assume the aforementioned Animated Egg may be behind the scene here. Thank you Kim's Video for nicely pricing this one.

There are a bunch more but I think I will save those for next month.

Primititive Sound System at D.C.'s Tavern Thurs March 5 - 9PM to Closing

Hello Y'all,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! That's right people my birthday just passed and I got to pack my box with a little more crack. I got a little off the internets via Chicago and the always wonderful Dusty Grooves and then the ONLY store I make time for Big City records in NYC. Unfortunately I didn't get to hang out as long as I would have liked but I was able to slip in, slip out and fill be pockets with some amazing new RACKETS! Music to rattle the mind and shake the behinds. Then in the weirdest convergence of events my brother muled a 45 racket back to the East Coast from LA lifted from the fine collection of one Mr. Howie Pyro, who's amazing radio show can be listened via archives buried here - http://jellsmayhemsgarage.podomatic.com so dig baby dig. If thin's weren't weird enough Lucy, I got to watch Todd-O-Phonic Todd co-host with Howie, when my brother was out LA way, on the Luxuria Music site - http://www.luxuriamusic.com that hosts Howie's brilliant show. ... and if that isn't stranger than aliens living in your eyelashes Mr. Bill Dolan found himself street walking LA and slammed into the whole crew where they all spontaneously broke into a round of, "IT'S A SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL" before a group hug and a final moon shot back to Hoboken.

Dust & Grooves - http://dustandgrooves.blogspot.com
Two weeks back DJ $mall ¢hange posted a link to a blog featuring a few crate diggers photographed amongst there fixes and in their hideouts. Cosmo Baker, Greg Caz, Joel Oliveira, and Mr. Fine Wine presented through some very lush photos and some gently probing Q&A. The photos are flowing with the quality of a still from a documentary. Black & white images live harmoniously with those of color telling the story of the subject and the importance obsession plays in education. It becomes more difficult to read the responses of these collectors as you dig farther down the page as the distraction of the images is just too great. The focus of the site is to celebrate the collectors as they really exist. Not in a smokey club striking a pose and manning the decks but in their homes amongst their vinyl biographies exposed like a gatefold cover spilling forgotten dried seeds to the floor. This is where even the coolest collector is reduced to the quaking and exuberant fan bursting to show you their best and of course their rarest records. Check the Blog out and Ailon told me there will be more collections added on a very regular basis. Come on in and smell the vinyl it's always fresh and of the highest quality.

- pat.

Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan & Joe Raaen
Thursday March 5th 9PM to Closing
D.C.'s Tavern
505 8th Street
Between Jefferson and Madison
BACK IN BACK
Hoboken, New Jersey
PH: 201-792-5550
http://www.dcstavern.com
http://myspace.com/dcstavern

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Alf Newman - "It's a Gas" b/w "Let's Do The Fink" (Golden 12 cat. G 12/52)
The fine gentleman I purchased this from wrote "Greatest Rock n Roll Song Of All Time!!" on the sleeve. He was not lying. I have been in love with this song about as long as I have loved the incredible "Blob" by the Five Blobs. The copies I have found were the original cardboard backed flexies that came in the magazine. Each copy I purchased was creased and never played. This went on for years and years. Basically I had given up on the search and decided hearing it on the radio occasionally would have to suffice. (There is an LP but I am not really interested in that. Why? I have no idea.) The best aspect of facebook is reconnecting with people from your past who you genuinely miss (the worst part is having people contact you that you really wish forgot you existed). One such person I have happily reconnected with is Howie Pyro. Almost immediately after the "friending' process I took a look through his photos marveling (as always) at his jaw dropping collection of cool records, art and tchotchkes. He had posted a photo of a copy of the cardboard backed flexi and I had to comment on how elusive it has been. Almost immediately he mentioned he had one for sale. Not the flexi version but a vinyl copy with a picture sleeve that was pressed in Germany. I have never seen a copy so of course I was very interested. He posted a photo of the the sleeve and I was immediately overcome with a sensation one normally experiences before passing out. I had to have it. In a bizarre case of synchronicity it turned out my brother was flying to LA and could pick up the 45 for me. He would then hand deliver it back to me safe and sound on the east coast. He did just that and as a surprise handed it to me and said, "Happy birthday." "Greatest Rock n Roll Song Of All Time!!" Yes, and now more than ever. "It's a Gas" opens like the best organ / guitar instrumentals with a swirling melody over an easily danceable beat. BUT! In the breaks, each and every goddamn one there is a loud BURB! So loud in fact that we had friends over and every time it played there adorable three year old daughter would walk into my studio and very politely ask us to, "Say excuse me." Utterly and completely awesome. Thank you Howie and thank you Michael.

What me worry?

Howie Pyro Intoxica Radio - Check out the archives here - http://jellsmayhemsgarage.podomatic.com
Catch him live on Luxuria Music Internet Radio every Tuesday night - http://www.luxuriamusic.com/djprofiles/howie-pyro

Gus "The Groove" Lewis - "Let The Groove Move You" b/w "Together" (Tou-Sea Records cat. 131)
Extracted from Big City records this is one a of a very few 7-inches on my genuine wish list or better yet "maybe one day" list. Imagine my surprise when this fell in the affordable column and gently landed on my record player. I really had no idea what one goes for since I saw it listed for like $200 once about twelve years ago. This opens with one of the most aggressive drum and bass combos ever recorded. The drummer is truly possessed and he is taking the bass player with him. There is never a second where the drummer is not hitting full tilt. You can here the tension and you almost tip over in anticipation of his clobbering blows. Gus remains pretty steady throughout just directing the band and making sure everyone at the party is having a good time. Basically the band is in charge of the entertainment and Gus is our host. he begins the song with a tale about feeling under the weather but there are no worries since all can be healed by sittin' back and let the groove move you. About half way through even Gus seems impressed with the band as he now explains he is well rested and ready for a good time. "Let 'em feel it man!" "Can you dig my band baby." Sure as fuck we can. Thank you Mr. Lewis.

Marvin Holmes & The Uptights - "Ride Your Mule - Part I & II (Revue cat. R 11026)
"Ooh Ooh The Dragon" is one of my favorite instrumentals (of course Mr. Holmes always has a few things to say) with snapping drums, breaks, and an in your face horn section. "Ride The Mule" is just as good. Marvin Holmes knows how to set a pace and pound out a groove. The band is super tight. The rhythm is fast as hell and the horns lope lazily over the top at about half speed.

The Propositions - "Africana" Pt. 1 & 2 (Movement cat. Mov - 1973 - 6)
I first heard this track on a Ubiquity Records comp "deja vu" in 1992. I'm not sure why I never pursued it because it is exactly what I look for in an instrumental. This copy is a second pressing so it didn't set me back too much but damn I would have paid in full for an original. Sadly part two is not all that good but who the hell cares because part one is amazing. Thick sliced bacon and percussion open this up. The bass is slow and deliberate. The band kicks in beautifully and immediately gets the shoulders shaking. The horns handle the vocal parts quite nicely and they even get into conversation with the organ in chorus. The flute jumps in to tell it how it is and is able to bring everyone together in agreement. As one, the band leaps forward doing what they do best, and gets everyone up and moving.

James Barnes & The Agents - "Good & Funky" b/w "The Bomb" (Golden Hit Prod. "Hit" After "Hit" cat. 102)
Every copy of this record I have come across has had something major wrong with it. The past two copies I have seen were cracked. The last one was such a tease. It looked fine and then when I removed it from the sleeve their was barely a bottom half. This copy is clean as hell and all the limbs are attached. At least for now, it is called "The Bomb" so anything is possible. Is J.J. Barnes the same person as James Barnes? I have no idea. I do know that I love this record. "The Bomb" is the backing track for "Good & Funky" and is hard a raw. There is a sparse guitar, hard drums, spitting horns, vibes and piano just steadily grooving for about three minutes. When the vocals are added to the backing it changes everything. It all becomes rawer and harder. Usually the instrumental side loosens things up but here the backing by itself is simply slow and low but with the vocals the track transforms into something more fitting of a party that is just beginning to roll.

The Jive Turkeys - "Straight Fire" b/w "Thumpin" (Colemine cat. CLMN-101)
A bright, repetitive guitar line opens this Meters inspired A side. The band is very solid with an even, medium pace rhythm driven by the steady drums. The organ and guitar build until they are looming and haunt the studio with a massive cloud of sound. There is a very interesting chorus that proceeds this and keeps things from getting samey or boring. The Jive Turkeys are confident as hell and know what they are doing right. They have to be confident. They named their band The Jive Turkeys. That can only mean that they are young which hopefully means they will be around for a while. "Thumpin" changes things a bit. I could see The Meters taking things in this direction but I can't recall any particular song. This has got a modern sound. Dare I say it, it is a bit progressive. I hear bands like 5 Style poking in and out of the sound. They get to exploit their talents on this side and their confidence allows them to loosen up and just go for it. The guitar attacks while the drums just beat the hell out of the groove. Hopefully these guys will explore more of this sound. The Meters are great but being yourself is more lasting and ultimately more fulfilling.

more 45's coming along for a spin...
Alvin Cash & The Hundred Dollar Bills - "Doin' The Creep" b/w "Party Time" (Seventy-SevenRecords cat. 77-118)
Professor Longhair - "Cuttin' Out" b/w "If I Only Knew" (Ron Record Co. cat. 326)
Mamie Galore - "Special Agent 34-24-38" b/w "I Wanna Be Your Radio" (St Lawrence Records "The House Of the Biggest Hits" cat. 1005)
Jo Ann Garrett - "Just Say When" b/w "Thousand Miles Away" (Chess cat. 2031)
Lunar Funk - "Slip The Drummer One" b/w "Space Monster" (Bell cat. Bell 45,214)
The Ambassadors - "Searchin' Part One and Two" (Sound Stage 7 cat. 45-2607)
Charles Bradley - "The Telephone Song" b/w Menahan Street Band - "Tired Of Fighting" (Dunham cat. DUN-103)
U.B.'s - "Synthetic Substitution" Instrumental b/w Melody Mix (First Cut / Undercover Brother cat. UB-4502)

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan and Joe Raaen at D.C.'s Tavern - Thursday Feb 5th - 9PM to closing

Hello Y'all,
This is no secret. Actually it is something many of us have felt like saying over the years, "You are my friend and I would do anything for you. Unfortunately that means going to see your band even though it is really boring and sometimes even sucks." "Nice guys, shitty band." Maybe I was just lucky because more times than not that has not been the case. Some friend's bands have remained my favorite bands of all time. Some of them are amazing live and others do their best work on record. Recently a yellow envelope showed up in the mail and its contents are revealed below. All I can say is, "Lock up your children!" I haven't spun me stacks-o-wacks at D.C.'s since the beginning of December so this will be fun. I have some great new records that I picked up over the holidays and ones I can't wait to play. I am bringing a very all over the map selection and know there will be something for everyone. I love watching people walk into the bar and wince at the music and then 20 minutes later Bill or myself are off on a completely different direction and they are now grooving along. Viva la difference! See you there.

- pat.

Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan & Joe Raaen
Thursday February 5th 9PM to Closing
D.C.'s Tavern
505 8th Street
Between Jefferson and Madison
BACK IN BACK
Hoboken, New Jersey
PH: 201-792-5550
http://www.dcstavern.com
http://myspace.com/dcstavern

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Blower - Dressed To Chill ep - "Hot Wheels, Cold Beer, Big Titties" b/w "Holidays In The Sun" (cat. BLOWER-666)
Holy mother of blessed acceleration! Here is a nice surprise from down Austin way. Blower is the creation of Doug Evans, The Didjits former songsmith and all around baadasssss, Merilee666 (High Times and friend of Pat Longo) and a man named Jimmy Delp who pounds the drums like he is tenderizing them for a feast. Some bands are beyond compare and others beg you to pick them apart. Blower wear their influences on the side of their rod like the decals of many sponsors. Their combination of 70's Heavy Rock, 80's Heavier Rock and 90's Heavy as Hell Rock combine to make the Heaviest Rock of the 3rd Millennium. If you look under the hood you may find Turbonegro, KISS, The Dead Boys, The Dictators, The Hellicopters, etc, as well as a gleaming Max Wedge. Clocking in at 2:18 this fucker moves down the track and leaves everyone in the dust. Jumping off the line with chrome dipped guitar and tailed by the pounding rhythm section "Hot Wheels, Cold Beer, Big Titties" is truly anthemic. I have listened to this daily since finding it on their MySpace page and now I have my very large hole 7-inch to have my way with. Mr. Evans takes the lead and stays way out front with shouted vocals and thick guitar. The bass and drums are relentless in their pursuit and leave potholes in their wake. The one sheet suggests you will be singing by the second chorus but I defy you to hold back that long. So simple, so perfect. Like all great Punk 45's this one is backed with a cover song. The Sex pistols get taken to task as Blower pounds through "Holidays In The Sun." Aggressively played and sung to snot nosed perfection. The 7-inch is wrapped in two photos by Chris Eudaley (art directed by the equally awesome Bobby Black) that amazingly evoke the paintings of Robt. Williams. I want to play "Hot Wheels, Cold Beer, Big Titties" through a stack, 500 speakers high or I'll settle for the PA at Raceway Park, either way I want to play it loud and often. Thank you Blower. [You need to fill up your tank with these so go to http://www.myspace.com/blower666 or email them at fueliecars@yahoo.com]

Myron & E - "Cold Game" b/w "I Can't Let You Get Away" (Timmion Records cat. 015)
There is something comforting about the familiar. Myron and E definitely understand that. I just can't put my finger on it exactly but this certainly does sound like something I know. Or, does this sound just familiar enough that I want to think I have heard it before? Whatever the answer, Timmion has been expressing their Soulful side as accomplished artists and not imitators. The pairing of this classic Soul duo with the magnificent Soul Investigators is a wise one that should yield some of the best Modern Soul sounds. There is even a drum break dropped right in the middle of all these lush sounds but it does not sound forced at all. This is one of those moments when you are listening and you think this can't work and it comes of so perfectly sweet. The Timmion family has continued to put out quality records for so many years and I look forward to many, many more.

The Animals - "I'm Crying" b/w "Take It Easy" (MGM Records cat. K-13274 w/pic sleeve)
The Animals became a favorite of mine from the first time I heard "House Of the Rising Sun" as a kid. One of the earliest LP's I purchased as a young-in was the Animals Greatest Hits. Oddly I never really sought much more of their catalog other than a few 45's. No song on that Greatest Hits LP got played more than "I'm Crying" so why it took me almost thirty years to find a 7-inch of it is beyond me. This one has a picture sleeve of the band looking so completely happy they just may be dosed. One of the members is holding an ashtray on a stand like a trophy and he looks like he may not know it is an ashtray. I guess I was first attracted to the beat and the frantic organ. The band never lets up and the always incredible Mr. Burden pleads, wails and screams over that backing. When he breaks the band continues their "ahhhhs" from the intro. What always gets me is that the title and lyrics seem like they would be more at home over a slower pace or even a ballad but this song works. Work it out baby!

1910 Fruitgum Co. - "When We Get Married" b/w "Baby Bret"
The 1910 Fruitgum Co. are always interesting to me. The A-Sides are the very definition of Bubblegum Rock and the B-Sides are more often than not a Guitar Instrumental or some sort of Organ groove. This 7-inch is no different. "Baby Bret" starts off like the bastard child of "Telstar" and once there it never leaves the Stratosphere. Organ, Theremin and Keyboards take off into orbit as the Guitar, Bass and Drums keep things simple in a Guitar Instrumental mode. The Theremin gets wilder and wilder but the rest of the backing stays constant. I am not sure what their deal was but I would have loved to be a part of the Buddah Records family.

Jackie Paine - "Go Go Train" (Jet Stream cat. JS 725)
It took me a while to figure out who did this. I heard it a long while ago, perhaps ten years or more. I love train songs so it was high on the list of songs in the back of my head that I hoped to one day stumble across or hopefully figure out. Recently I saw this listed on Dusty Groove and took a shot. Lo and behold if it was the right goddamn 45. Like its name this is one hell of a Go-Go. I guess I should have figured this out a lot easier because after playing it a few times it is pretty obvious that this is from New Orleans. Big heavy drums roll down the track first followed by slow horns and Mr. Paine who sounds a bit like a rougher Robert Parker. Mr. Paine name checks some of his favorite cities as well as R&B, Soul and Rock artists Crazy Cajun, Righteous Brothers, Bo Diddley,Chuck Berry, James Brown, Roy Head, Elvis and Jimmy Reed. He slips them in all the while smoothly chatting up the ladies. "We got to keep movin'"

Jimmy Dobbins - "Little Miss Perfect" (Crash Records cat. M 2066)
Sometimes the faster a Soul song is played it can easily straddle that line between R&B and Garage Rock. "Little Miss Perfect" is one such song. Sharply played music full of energy and attitude dance under Mr. Dobbins exclamation of love for his girl who is obviously nothing short of perfect. There is a lot to be said about attitude, feel and beat. The drums are really out front despite this having a "big" sound like it was recorded in a hall or something. The guitar and horns interplay with the lead and backing vocals challenging each other as well as giving space enough to allow each to shine. As 45's go this one is nicely timed at just under three minutes but I'd like to hear the rest of this session as it does fade. The obligatory ballad on the B still has the drums out front and is nicely aggressive. I have a soft spot for aggressive ballads, especially ones with raps in the middle. This was an impulse buy and I am glad I followed my gut.

Andre Odom - "Turn On Your Love Light" (Nation Records cat. N-13)
I am not even sure how to describe this one other than that there is a very Gospel feel present on "Turn On Your Love Light." This cranks along in a very positive and groovy way. About half the way through the drums and congas pound out a beat as Mr. Odom testifies. Sax blows in and solos a bit as other horns build and support the break. Everyone stops as the drums and congas once again create a platform for Mr. Odom. begging on bending knee.

Set List From the Lamp Post

The Beats - "The Beatnik Bounce" Part 1 33 RPM (Columbia cat. 3-41781 (For Demonstration use Only Not For Sale))
Johnny Brantley's All Stars - "The Place" (Carlton cat. 453 (Promotional Copy - Not For Sale - )
The Tradewinds - "The Snake" (Dan - Tone Records cat. 1001)
A Buchanon & Goodman Prod. - "The Cha Cha Lesson" (Cosmic Records cat. CR 500)
Cozy Cole - "Turvy I" (Love cat. 5013)
The Nite Sounds - "Cheese Cake" (Fortune cat. 548)
The Pastel Six - "Bandito" (Zen cat. 102)
Henry Mancini - ""Senor" Peter Gunn" (RCA Victor cat. 47-8574 (Not For Sale))
Billy Bland - "Do The Bug With Me" (Old Town cat. Record No. 1109)
Jimmy McCracklin And His Orchestra - "Get Back" (Premium Records cat. PR 102)
The Ideals - The Gorilla" (Cortland cat. 2791)
Les Cooper And The Soul Rockers - "I Can Do The Soul Jerk" (Arrawak Records cat. P 1008)
Lowell Fulsom - "The Thing" (Kent cat. K 45x471)
Georgie Fame And The Blue Flames - "El Bandido" (Imperial cat. 66189)
Cash McCall - "You Ain't Too Cool" (Thomas Records cat. 307 / 8830)
Bad Bascomb - "Funk City" (Spectrum Records of N.Y.C. cat. SP - 137)
Joe Jeffery - The Train" (Wand cat. WND 11207 (DJ Copy Not For Sale))
Clifford Curry - "Miss Shake-A-Plenty (In The Micro Mini)" (Elf cat. 90.018 (Promotion Copy))
Jackey Beavers - "Hold On" (Sound Stage 7 cat. SS7-2649 (Mono Disc Jockey Not For Sale))
Bill Johnson - "You Got Soul" (Jocida Records Div. Of Joda Ent., Inc. cat. C-301 (For Promotional Us Only))
Jimmy Chandler - "I Can't Turn You Loose" (J City Records cat. JC-250 (Dist. Exclusively by Kay-Vee Industries - Jersey City, N.J. 07302))
Wylie Dixon - "When Will It End" (Toddlin Town Records cat. 105 / 4009)
Jesse G. - "A Two-Faced Friend Ain't No Good" (Radio Station Copy))
Von Freeman - "Cheeks" (Markie cat. M-103)
Bobby Moore and The Rhythm Aces - "Hey, Mr. D.J." (Checker cat. 1129)
Ace Cannon - "Drunk" (Hi cat. HI 2187)
James Duncan - "You've Gotta Be Strong" (Federal cat. 45-1255 (2007 Vampi Soul re-issue selected by Mr. Fine Wine)
Swamp Dogg - "Total Destruction To Your Mind" (Canyon Records cat. #53)
The Blues Groove - "Makin' It" (Verve cat. VK-10417)
Little Willie Jones - "You're Welcome To Try" (VRC Vernell Record Co. Newark, N.J. cat. VC-115)
A.C. Reed - "Boogaloo - Tramp" (Nike cat. 2002)
Joe Simon - "The Whoo Pee" (Vee-Jay Records cat. VJ-694)
King Cutis - "Memphis Soul Stew" (Atco Records cat. 45-6511)
Macon - "Pully Bone" (Capricorn cat. C-8002 / CAP-18332 (wht label promo))
Don Covay - "Sookie Sookie" (Atlantic cat. 45-2323)
Harvey Scales - "I Wanna Do It" (Stax Records cat. STA-0126)
SOD - "Too Loose To Get Tight (Part 1)" (Decca cat. 32937 (Promotion Copy Not For Sale))
The Commodores - "Machine Gun" (Motown cat. M 130)
Ballin' Jack - "Found A Child" (Columbia cat. 4-45348 / JZSP 154680 (Mono Version Not For Sale Radio Station Copy))
Mongo Santamaria - "Cold Sweat" (Columbia cat. 4-44502 / ZSP 136897))
Moon People - "Land Of Love" (Speed cat. SP 003 / SP 1002)
Ray Barretto - "New York Soul" (Fania cat. 501)
Tito Rodriguez - "Boogaloo En Puerto Rico" (UA Latino cat. LA 303 (Promotion Copy Not For Sale))
Ali Baba (Louie Ramirez) - "Ungawa" (Fania cat. 479)
Monguito Santamaria Vocal By: Ronnie Marks - "Hey Sister" (Fania cat. 481)
Ricardo Ray - "Nitty Gritty" (Alegre Records cat. X-4024 / 3292)
Bobby Quesada - "Bataola Boogaloo" (Fania cat. 464 (Gold Label))
The Joe Cuba Sextet - "Oh Yeah!" (Tico cat. T-490 / 2533)
Pete Rodriguez - "I Like It (I Like It Like That)" (Alegre cat. X-4010 / X-3079)
The Pazant Brothers - "Juicy Lucy" (GWP Records cat. GWP 506)
The Village Callers - "Hector" (Rampart Records cat. 659)
The Show Stoppers - "Ain't Nothin' But A House Party" (Heritage cat. HE800)
Eddie Floyd - "Big Bird" (Stax cat. 45-246)
Tyrone Davis - "Is It Something You've Got" (Dakar Records cat. 45-605)
Myron & E with The Soul Investigators - "Cold Game" (Timmion Records cat. #015 (DJ))
Binky Griptite - "One Time, You're Mine" (Daptone Records cat. DAP-1042)
Gizelle Smith and The Mighty Mocambos - "Working Woman - Part 1" (Old Capital cat. OC - 100)
Foxy - "Trouble" (Double Shot Records cat. # 153)
Irene Reid - "Dirty Old Man" (Old Town Records cat. 2004 / 178)
Nina Simone - "Save Me" (RCA cat. RCA 1903)
Dotti Wright - "Eclipse Of A Lover" (F-M Records cat. 471)
Sheila Wilkerson - "Baby You're A Jive Cat" (Jazzman cat. JM.059)
"Trollin'" (HBR Hanna-Barbera Records cat. HBR-513)
The Ventures - "The Singin' Creeper" (Dolton Records cat. No. 306)
The Arrows Featuring Davie Allan - "Moon Dawg '65" (Tower cat. 133)
Hub Brando and The Dreamers - "Eskimo Walk" (Tear Drop cat. 3008 / TD-513)
Al Casey Combo - "Doin' It" (Stacy Records cat. 956)
Herbie Mann - "The Honeydripper" (Atlantic cat. 45-2379)
The Fantastics! - "Soul Sucka" (Freestyle cat. FSR7 - 051)
Breakestra - "Lowdown Stank" (Root Down cat. 422)
Stacy Lane - "African Twist" (Excello Records cat. 2293)
The Mighty Groove Makers - "Let's Dance Some Mo (Part 1) (Peanut Country Records cat. PC 1003)
Billy Wade And The 3rd Degrees - "Tear It Up, Part 1" (ABC Records cat. 45 10991)
Cannibal and The Headhunters - "Nau Ninny Nau" (Rampart cat. 644)
The Standells - "Dirty Water" (Tower cat. 185)
Roy Head and The Traits - "Treat Her Right" (Back Beat cat. 546)
Johnny Halyday - "Mal" "Hush" (Philips cat. Bf370489)
The Wildweeds - "I'm Dreaming" (Cadet Concept cat. 7004)
The Rgbys - "You, I" (Amazon Records cat. AM #1)
Ekseption - "Dharma For One" (Philips cat. 40675 (Promotional Copy Not For Sale))
Blackbyrds - "Rock Creek Park" (Fantasy cat. Fantasy 771)

Primitive Sound System at The Lamp Post Wednesday January 7th from 10PM to closing

Hello Y'all,
So welcome to 2009, it's a new day. Oh boy, the future is so bright you just gotta wear shades... PHEH! Well, who knows where we are all headed but at least there is still good music for the ride. This Wednesday I'm back at The Lamp Post spinning a box of 45's. I have been making sure not to repeat a song from the previous session and sticking to an all 7-inch format. I've kept the genres limited to 50's / 60's Instrumentals, 50's R&B / Rock, Jazz, Funk and Soul, Instrumentals, Garage Rock, 70's Rock and New Funk & Soul. Because of this I have broken out records that I haven't played in ages, some of which I will probably be adding to regular rotation. The Lamp Post is easily one of my favorite places to DJ because the regulars are very open to music they most likely have never heard. As always Steff will be holding down the bar (and the taps) so please make nice with the tipping. See you Wednesday.

- pat.
Primitive Sound System - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Wednesday, January 7th
Spinning from 10PM to Closing
Lamp Post Bar & Grill
382 2nd St
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201)-222-1331
http://www.myspace.com/lamppost
Steff's Lampost schedule:
http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=71579&blogID=356928615

45's:

El Michel's - "It's A New Day" Instrumental b/w the drums only (Street Beat Records cat. SBR-771)
This is one of those great little series that shows that the new bands can definitely play it as cool as the originals. The fabulous El Michels Affair tackles the Skullsnaps legendary Hip Hop break monster "It's A New Day" and keeps it close pretty to the vest. Of course I couldn't be any happier as this is an instrumental version. For me the wordless song is always preferred to all that talking regardless of how insanely cool the Skullsnaps original is. With that said the lyrics couldn't be any more relevant today then the day it was written, "It's a New Day, and a better days coming." "What'cha gonna do?"

Binky Griptite - "One Time, You're Mine" b/w "Your'e Gonna Cry" (Daptone Records cat. DAP-1042)
Ah, this is Summer time music if there ever was. Kickin' it William DeVaughn style. Binky Griptite keeps things raw and aggressive vocally over a slow paced conga heavy groove. More of a rap than singing but it works perfectly. The band is sharp as ever and allows Mr. Griptite the space to make this work flawlessly. There are sweet guitar and baritone sax flourishes that keep the band from slipping to far into the background. The B-Side is a ballad (at 3:25 it makes it a long one as well) but as Ballads go it's a good one. This won't get much play out so we'll have to slow dance in the kitchen waiting for the pot to boil.

The Fantastics! - "Soul Child" b/w "Soul Sucka" (Freestyle cat. FSR7-051)
If you want to be easily criticized negatively call your band the The Fantastics! One can write the shortest review ever. "The Not Fantastics." BUT, the easiest way to keep things positive is to simply be... fantastic and this band has yet to disappoint. Here the band is throwing vocals into the mix and does a pretty great job of it. The vocals dance around "samples" and sounds in tribute to past songs and the performance is solid. The band is sharp as ever but takes a back seat to the vocals giving them room to breath and shine. Similarly the vocalists allows the drums do break, the horns do blow and, of course, the organ to grind. No offense to the A-side but there is a smoking instrumental spinning on the B-side that would make a category five tornado cower in fear. Horns, drums, bass, and organ jump out and get things going but nothing could prepare you for what is coming, and it is coming on quickly. The Organ, frenzied and powerful, grinds and burns until it whips itself round and round at dizzying speeds. Sounds come from every angle and engulf us. Out of the dust and debris left in its wake the band has become wound up so tight from the devastation that they can't hold themselves back any longer. The first survivor to make itself known is the sax who comes out of the clouds screaming. This is one of those in your face, reed splitting solos that sends chills up your spine and brings a smile to your face. Before this weather system passes the congas and guitar step out just far enough to be noticed and remind us that we should be dancing. That last sound we hear is a laugh that is both surprised and confident. Like laughing in the face of danger and knowing you can not be beaten. I have probably listened to this about 20 times tonight alone. Oh yeah, "The Fucking Fantastics!"

The Perceptions - "Rolling & Tumbling" b/w "Right The Wrong" (Freestyle cat.FSR7050)
The Perceptions have a classic Soul Jazz sound and from the Prestige influenced label of this 45 it is obvious that is what they are going for. The band is so tight and together you would assume they have known each other their entire lives. Each player seems to be attached to each other like the cars of a train as they closely follow each other through twists and turns. The recording is beautiful, it seems to highlight each musician equally yet has a very live room feel. The sax and guitar get the solo action on side one and display their wares with excitement and professionalism. Don't be confused by all this impressive playing and clean recording sounds this is a burning little Soul Jazz track that should definitely keep bodies moving on the floor. A nice break kicks open "Right The Wrong" and the band takes it in a more Funk instrumental direction than a Jazzy one also reminiscent of the fabulous Prestige label. The organ takes on the "vocal" duties and despite the seemingly slow start it quickly becomes apparent that this band can drive and kick. On the surface this side seems medium paced and easy going yet with very little effort the band begins to pick up the speed and intensity just beneath. This is similar to a Rhoda Scott live track but usually she and her band take a good five or six minutes to get to this level. The organ is just plain unfuckable and stops on a dime just before hitting the run-out groove.

Steve Ellis - "Loot's The Root" b/w "The Undertaker Song" (Licorice Soul cat. LSD 013)
These are two cuts from the extremely hard to find Loot soundtrack. There is a similar feel to both cuts like a great soundtrack should have. "Loot's The Root" is a vocal cut and obviously the theme and "The Undertaker Song" is instrumental and as groovy as they come. "Loot..." is a song that makes me wish I had seen this film, hopefully it is as good as its theme. Simple repetitive vocals from Steve Ellis are backed by a big band and in the break we are treated to a great little organ solo from Alan Hawkshaw. There is a nice drum and conga break toward the end with some sweet female coos and ohs from Madeline Bell. The Undertaker Song is far more aggressive and opens with a big break beat drum that must have been used somewhere. The organ takes the vocal part on this side and makes some nice runs only pausing to let the drums jump out with a few solo moments. Usually this type of interplay can kill the momentum and flow of a tune but not here in the able hands of Keith Mansfield.

From the "I can't believe I have never written about this" pile:
Foster Sylvers - "Misdemeanor" (Pride cat. PR 1031)
Whenever I play this and someone asks who it is they always mention the Jackson Five. That isn't a bad reference or place to start but Foster is not some Michael Jackson wanna be. The Sylvers, nine of them, were easily as talented and extremely popular through the 70's. "Misdemeanor" spent a good amount of time on the charts and sounds just as incredible today as it did over 30 years ago. The sisters Sylvers open up the track over a striking piano and heavy drums. Foster comes in right on top of them sounding far more seasoned than a nine year old. The backing, by his only slightly older sisters, keeps the vocal sound consistent and even. Without sounding completely insane, the sweet female vocals are an element that really separates the Sylvers from the Jacksons. At this early stage in their careers it would have benefitted the Jacksons to have some sisters backing Michael and Jermaine. Of course the Jacksons sounded great and the combination was more than just a winning one. Foster's performance is forceful and passionate. There is also a Laissez faire attitude as if he knows that playing hard to get is a good strategy for winning the affections of a young lady. The backing track is simple and repetitive but never boring or pedestrian. There are lovely percussive choices like the triangle which also sounds like a child's piano. This is a slow to medium paced groove but always seems to get someone dancing whether it be on the floor or in their seat.

PSS and Hank Fischer at D.C.'s (12/4) and PSS at the Jersey City Museum (12/10) for a benefit

Hello Y'all,
"Jingle Bells, Batman Smells Robin Laid an Egg!" Yes, the holler-days are upon yee. So much too do; so little money. Drink until you smile and dance until it hurts... just please no requests. I know my dance card is pretty full this season and hopefully so is yours. First off there is the ghost of Christmas monthly. You know the one. Sometimes two headed shirtless beast spinning joy after joy with reckless abandon. That's right, I'll be setting the bar a flame with some holiday joy along with special guest Hank Mother Fucking Fischer on December 4th at the festive D.C.'s Tavern. You know the place where it feels like Christmas year round from 2AM - 1PM. But don't let that stop you from coming around from 9PM to 2AM for the usual, the unusual and the down right wrong selections made for all those brave enough to come down their chimney. The guests don't stop with those whose sleighs are weighed down with vinyl. Big Red, that's right people, Matt Dolan has returned to our shores and will be pressing the flesh and giving out free hugs. Please stop by, say hello, and have a drink or two. As always be kind, rewind and tip the bartender. See you there.

Primitive Sound System and Hank Fischer
Hank will be spinning some of his favorites from Glam, Oi, "77 Punk, old ska and reggae too!
Thursday December 4th 9PM to Closing
D.C.'s Tavern
505 8th Street
Between Jefferson and Madison
BACK IN BACK
Hoboken, New Jersey
PH: 201-792-5550
http://www.dcstavern.com
http://myspace.com/dcstavern

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On December 10th I have the great pleasure of DJing at a benefit for the fine folks at The Jersey City Museum. Please come by and support the museum.

Dissed and Dismissed: (Cartoons Not Meant for the Ages (and not in good taste, either))
Wednesday, December 10, 2008, 7pm until late
Benefiting the Museum's exhibition and education initiatives (http://jerseycitymuseum.ecrater.com/category.php?cid=383019)
Ticket prices:
$65 for Museum Members
$75 In advance
$85 At the door

Join cartoonists from The New Yorker Magazine as they present uncensored cartoons that were too bizarre, too risqué, or too politically incorrect to be published in The New Yorker!
Featuring: Drew Dernavich and Matthew Diffee
Click here for the latest information on this event - http://www.jerseycitymuseum.org/template.cfm?cid=52
(* Signed copies of the books, The Rejection Collection Vol. 1 and 2, on sale in the Museum shop)

Come early for drinks (courtesy of Bar Majestic) and hors d'oeuvres and stay late for the raffle and hilarity!

Jersey City Museum
http://www.jerseycitymuseum.org
350 Montgomery Street Jersey City, NJ 07302

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- pat.
Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Records:
1910 Fruitgum Co. - "The Train" b/w "Eternal Light" (Buddah Records cat. BDA 130)
Not everyone I know is a fan of "The Train" but it is one of my favorites. That is not what prompted me to seek out this fine little 7-inch. No, it is the beacon shining from the B-side that drew me in. The Kasenetz-Katz crew were nothing if they were prolific. 100's of songs and most of them gems even if they get passed off as Bubble Gum. I have unearthed a few instrumental moments and this is one of them. Opening like the procession at a local Church, a solo organ intros what could be a sister act to Procol Harums anthemic "Whiter Shade of Pale" but nicely this takes a soft turn into a mellow Soulful build that suddenly launches into a very brief Jazzy organ based Rock instrumental complete with funky drumming and heavy bass. Damn, I want to hear this without the fade. Just two minutes and twenty five seconds and oh, so intriguing. Was it truly a studio improv that ended abruptly? Did the stretch this out beyond what would have been an acceptable B-side instrumental? As always the playing is sharp and what almost always sounds deliberate. The Kasenetz-Katz bands always have a "Yup, I meant to do that feel to them.' Blistering and fuzzy guitars, screaming organs, breaking drums, and backward recordings all found under what should be a cliche genre.

Billy Joe & The Checkmates - "Percolator" (Dore cat. 620)
Guitar instrumentals don't get much more amusing than this. Basically an extended version of the Maxwell House theme. There are some points when the guitar gets to be a bit more Surfy but actually the whole thing has a nice flow to it. There are no surprises here except for the slightly aggressive brief breaks. Other than that, this is a smile from ear to ear and of course the caffeine helps keep you smiling long after the pot is empty. Get your caffeinated groove on.

Warm Excursion - "Hang Up" Part 1 and 2 (Pzazz Records cat. 039)
This has always been one of my favorite instrumentals and I can't believe I have never written about it. Few records can stand up to the intro of this monster. This literally JUMPS out of the grooves and into your face like you were talking shit. Just kick drum counting us in and BANG! If I had to describe this with one word it would be "tough." The drums pound from start to finish and despite there being a lot going on every instrument has room to breath. The organ and horns are attached at the hip yelling and screaming all over the place. Sometimes you expect them and at others they sneak up and scare the hell out of you. The bass is heavy as hell and at times seems to push the other players out of the way to get up front and pound you back down. There are two sides of this and I think they easily could have given us more. Side two gives the guitar and organ their moment. Dodging and weaving between the riot the guitar hits us with some very creative soloing. Just when you think it is all over the drums kick it up which seems to inspire a flurry from the organ. No mas!

Oscar Brown, Jr. & Luiz Henrique - "Barra Limpa (Ba-ha Leem-pa)" (Fontana cat. F-1547 (white label promo))
It has been a while since I picked up some new Brazilian music. The vocalist is Oscar Brown but the backing couldn't be any more perfect for his gruff but sweet vocal tone. I have no idea what the title of the song means but from Mr. Browns vocals I assume it is a party. The backing is quick and eventually hits a fevered pitch but some how maintains that bossa sound that is always soothing and relaxing. As the backing speeds up Mr. Brown remains even keeled and never looses his cool. The music is penned by Mr. Henrique who also plays guitar. The combination of the Brazilian sounds and Mr Brown's voice is a perfect one and I can see why they called the LP "Finding a New Friend." I imagine this is the music my parents were going to see in The Village and the early and mid sixties. Beautiful.

Bobby Paterson and The Mustangs - ""Broadway Ain't Funky No More" b/w "I Met My Match" (Jetstar Records cat. JS-111 (Yellow Vinyl / DJ Copy Not For Sale))
Damn, Bobby Paterson was completely amazing. I also love that his records came on color vinyl. Yellow to be exact. How cool is that? "Broadway Aint Funky No More" is about as raw and Funky as he gets and that is pretty damn raw and Funky. This opens with a great little guitar intro and opens up into a thick wall of voices, drums, and especially bass. The whole first half sounds like an extend break and solo from each player. The band is super tight and stops on a dime to let Bobby smile through the chorus. The drums give us a break and then the horns get things started up again. Broadway may not be funky no more but wherever Bobby and his Mustangs go sure the hell is. The "B" is a tear jerker of a ballad but has some aggressive guitar and snapping drums to keep it from being typical.

Harvey Scales & The Seven Sounds - "Broadway Freeze" b/w "I Can't Cry No More" (Magic Touch Records cat. MTA 16001)
Harvey Scales knows how to get the floor moving. He is so confident in his skills that he even reminds us that the amazing "Get Down" was last years groove he has moved on to bigger and better things. Scales name checks his favorite artists and dances all the while he and the band kick it hard and keep things moving. Vocal breaks pop in and out through out but never disrupt the action. The band has a very live sound to them. It isn't just the calls and shouts in the studio giving it a party feel but a connection the players seem to have moving in unison from moment to moment anticipating Scales direction and not letting anyone fall off the beat. Playful yet perfectly executed.

PSS and Bill Dolan at D.C.'s Tavern - Thursday November 6th from 9PM to closing

Hello Y'all,
Sometimes you really don't have to spend a lot of money to get what you really want. A couple of weeks back WFMU had their annual Record Fair which I can sadly say I look forward to almost the moment it has ended. I spent about 4 hours diggin' around and came home with twenty-nine records and spent just $50. This year my son was Obi-Wan Kenobi for Halloween and I was lucky enough to un-earth a copy of Star Wars - Story, Music and Photos From The Original Motion Picture so let's just say he was very happy and I think I may have scored a few points. Some of the records were upgrade copies of records I already had, some I have been looking for for a while and others I never knew existed. Dropping the needle on Sod's "Too Loose To Get Tight" was pretty mind blowing and The Truth's two-sider mines the same heavy Rock / Funk territory as the Sod 7-inch. Other surprises include "The Snake" by the Tradewinds, a very raw version of "Telstar" by Sam Wright Group and "The Beatnik Bounce" by The Beats. All in all it was a very good day and of course I can't wait to spread the audio wealth. See you all Thursday night and remember folks be kind and tip your bartender.

- pat.

Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan & Joe Raaen
Thursday November 6th 9PM to Closing
D.C.'s Tavern
505 8th Street
Between Jefferson and Madison
BACK IN BACK
Hoboken, New Jersey
PH: 201-792-5550
http://www.dcstavern.com
http://myspace.com/dcstavern

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What's in THE BOXXXX!

Deep Street Soul - "Loose Caboose" b/w "Nasty" (Jaycees cat. JCR-002)
I stumbled upon the Deep Street Soul MySpace page completely by accident. This is what you call a happy accident, a very happy accident. Raw organ based instrumentals touch me in a way few other styles of music do. This isn't an unwelcome touch on the no-no place by a creepy relative. This is deep in the soul where every part of your mind and body are brought together and then explode out of your body. The band takes off on side one as being chased by an axe wielding maniac. The pace of "Loose Caboose" can only be described as a terrified run. Similar to an extremely slow song it is a litmus test of how well a band can swing. If they can make it Funky at this speed then they are doing something right. This shit is all about the Drums and Organ. The drummer is hammering the hell out of his kit and the organ teases him with accents but never challenges or matches the forward attack. The bass and guitar keep everything contained by making sure nothing becomes too out of control. "Nasty" keeps the band and especially the drummer right up there in your grill. Here the pace is far more relaxed but the players have not lessened their attack. On "Nasty" the organ gets a little more room to strut its stuff and it uses the time well and in the end we are bobbing our heads and still very impressed. This band means business and they are taking it to the streets.

Birdwave - "Soul Lift" Part 1 & 2 (Jaycees cat. JCR-003)
From the same label as Deep Street Soul comes the deeply soulful Birdwave. I can only hope they are named after the incredible Jimmy McGriff song of the same name. The name may be obvious, but it is a very appropriate point of inspiration. Like McGriff, Birdwave knows how to set the perfect mood. This is playing late night and the crowd still has a little life left in them. They ain't ready to pass out on the bar or pour themselves into a cab. They need a few more sounds to keep the mellow and smile themselves to sleep.

Stereoscope Jerk Explosion - "Jerk a la Vague" b/w "Fuzz Party" (Les Disques Cosmic Groove cat. groove cosmique 07 (w/poster and post card))
"Fuzz Party" is the real winner here and it is not a misnomer in the slightest. The drums, organ and bass are sharp and popping but the guitar is fuzzed out and crunchy. There are even sweet wordless vocals floating over the top and giving it a bit more light feel as well as giving it a 60's soundtrack sensation. This is a real deep groove played by some stellar musicians. I will be going to this "Fuzz Party" quite often. "YEAH BABY!"

Sod - "Too Loose To Get Tight" (Part 1 & 2) (Decca cat. 32937 (Promotional Copy Not for Sale))
WOW! What the hell is this? A nasty, nasty, nasty break leads off as guitar, bass and powerful horn blasts JUMP out of the grooves. This is a Rock / Funk masterpiece. Having this and Iron Knowledge in the same box could be dangerous. This is tight as hell 70's bell bottom jeans, white guys with afros and a bottom so heavy it will crush you. All this is packed into a mere 7-inch vinyl record that certainly does not seem able to contain the contents of the grooves and ensure our safety. If the intro isn't enough to knock you on your ass, or at least get it shaking, there is spectacular percussion, monstrous organ, thudding bass that will rattle your brain and blistering guitar riffs that make you hate that weak ass crap tossed off by Eric Clapton even more than you already did... and you do. But wait folks... there is an equally great side two. First off, almost all "part twos" of a 45 RPM 7-inch record fade in but not here and I couldn't be any happier. Side two lets the horn section shine. First the flute gets to do its thing over the beats and then the sax. About half way through we get a taste of the chorus followed by the band picking up the tempo and pounding their way to one final statement of the theme. This is one brilliant little disc-o-fire.

The Truth - "Wade In The Water" b/w "Love Locked"
The Truth combine Rock, Funk and a touch of Jazz to produce a two-sided flood of grooves and sweat. The guitar stands out along with the percussion on "Love Locked" but then, as if someone thought I was in need of a treat, the organ bulldozes forward on the break taking this from the Rock Heavy side to the Soul Jazz side. Sometimes the Rock / Funk thing can be too slick or soulless but The Truth are raw and have plenty of soul to keep the band swinging and the crowd dancing. The side is short so all of this happens quickly. There is even an all too short guitar solo after the organ but instead of making this a jam it is a perfect 45. One of my favorite songs is "Wade In The Water" and The Truth certainly add to that section of my collection with an aggressive rendition. Unfortunately for me the lead vocals come off a bit stiff at times and seems at bit at odds with the beautiful version the band is laying down. The drums, the organ and the guitar keep the tempo up from the songs usual medium pace. The guitar really gets to shine with a great "vocal" sounding solo taking on a verse and chorus all its own. Both sides are fantastic and which gets spun will be determined by the mood of the set. I'm guessing this will be a regular in my collection box.

Ace Cannon - "Chicken Fried Soul" b/w "Drunk" (Hi Records cat. HI 2187)
I grabbed this for the obvious reason. A food song backed by a drinking song. Even if one side of this was a harpsichord solo the other side would have to be great. I didn't know either of these two sides but a friend recognized "Drunk" almost immediately as a version of the Joe Liggins tune. Liggins of course penned one of my current collecting obsessions "The Honeydripper." "Country Fried Soul" is probably one of the biggest disappointments I have had on wax in a while. Basically sounds like an answer song to "Yakety Sax." What a shame and yes it might as well be a harpsichord solo. "Drunk" couldn't sound any more different than the abomination on the other side. Call it a divine moment but Ace Cannon and gang truly get touched with a moment of greatness. The drums, bass and guitar seem to share a single heart as they pound away at this funky little groover. Right from the start our drunk in question gets to tell his story of a life where lessons aren't learned but instead they are drank away. Mr. Cannon gets to blow a forceful and soul infused solo. Is it too easy to say the whole thing is intoxicating? Well, fuck it. I'm DRUNK!

Don Covay - "Shingaling '67" b/w "I Was There" (Atlantic cat. 45-2375)
Sadly I did not know this. I need to be shamed publicly but that is actually what makes record collecting so exciting. The best part is, I don't just grab them and put them in a stamp collection and hide them away for ever. No, I get to play this for those lucky enough to have never heard it before and those even luckier who know it, and love it as much as I do. "There is a brand new dance going around and it is called the Shing-A-Ling!" Not only is this soulful but it has a huge arrangement for what should be a raw dance party staple. I don't think there is a person alive or dead who couldn't catch this groove. Covay's voice is so distinctive and when he is pleading he is at his best. Here he is having a fun time dancing but he needs to get everyone out on the floor, so plead he does. "I Was There" spotlights Covay's urging and begging tone and is sure to draw a tear from even the heartless amongst us. How he manages to add a playfulness to such a sad tail is a testament to his genius.

Lou Rawls - "Bring It On Home" b/w "Can You Dig It" (Monologue) / "Take Me For What I Am" (Capitol cat. P-2856 (Promotional Record Not For Sale))
I have said it before, I can listen to Lou Rawls sing pretty much anything his voice always gives me the chills. I was pretty sure this might be the one time he came up short on song choice because "Bring It On Home" can fall a little flat in its repetition. Oh, how happy I was when I found out how wrong I was. Lou Rawls plus David Axelrod almost always equals masterpiece and it is true here as well. A southern sounding guitar lick opens this up and leads into one of Lou's beautiful soloed voice intros. In true Axelrod form this is soon followed up by a beautiful yet brief break and then bring on the horns and raise the roof. Repetition is good and Rawls is great.

Sam Space And The Cadets - "Take Me To Your Leader Cha-Cha-Cha" (Cabot cat. Ca-127)
I LOVE songs about space and spacemen BUT could there be anything more incredible on earth, or to the ends of the Universe, than a Space song about Spaceman that is... a Cha Cha? I think not. I have already listened to this about 100 times. It is infectious and entertaining. Most likely it is from the late fifties or perhaps the early Sixties but needless to say it almost certainly could not be done nowadays and have the same sound and appeal. This is simplicity personified. Space, Spacemen, and Cha Cha Cha so c'mon what are you waiting for lets conquer the world, hell it doesn't even have to be this one.

Sam Wright Group - "Telstar" b/w The Mexikans - "The Lonely Bull" (BiG cat. C-17)
Ahh the wonderful Mr. Wright. I have another 45 where he takes a stab at "Green Onions" and sautés it to perfection. Here he takes a spin out of the stratosphere for a ride on the telecommunications satellite known as Telstar. This is easily the rawest version I have ever heard and the 20 seconds of rocket launch sounds at the end elevate this to a whole other Galaxy. I assume Mr. Wright is the man at the organ as it is the most prominent instrument on both this and Green Onions. There is nothing out of the ordinary with the performance but it is simply just enjoyable.

The Tradewinds - "The Snake" b/w "Congo Beat" (Dan - Tone Records cat. 1001)
Next two the organ instrumental there is nothing more satisfying than a ripping raw guitar one. I love to hear fuzzed up, distorted, loud guitars tangle with the saxophone for dominance on the bandstand. With a name like The Tradewinds honestly I didn't expect much but the song titles hinted at greatness carved into the vinyl. I was first drawn to the hard to disguise "Congo Beat" but was sadly let down by the pedestrian approach taken. Mind you, it is not bad, it just ain't evil. So flip it I did and slithering into my mind came, "The Snake!" This is what guitar instrumentals are all about. Pounding drums, hand claps, wailing sax, the mimicked sounds of a snake and guitar coil and strike you where you stand or hopefully dance. The guitar never busts out but remains part of the pack.

and the rest...
Jan & Dean - "Drag City" b/w "Schlock Rod (Part 1) (Liberty cat. F-555641)
The Kingsmen - "Louie Louie" b/w "Haunted Castle" (Wand cat. 143)
**Syndicate of Sound - "Little Girl" b/w "You" (Bell Records cat. 640)
The Show Stoppers - "Ain't Nothin' But A House Party" b/w "What Can A Man Do" (Heritage cat. HE800)
Nina Simone - "To Love Somebody" b/w "I Can't See Nobody" (RCA Victor cat. 47-9447 (Not For Sale))
Dusty Springfield - "Breakfast In Bed" b/w "Don't Forget About Me" (Atlantic cat. 2606)
Jazz Crusaders - "Tough Talk" b/w "The Thing" (World-Pacific cat. WP-429 (Audition Record))
**Rusty Bryant - "Soul Liberation" (Part 1& 2) (Prestige cat. 45-738)
**Eddie Harris - "It's Crazy" b/w "Live Right Now" (Atlantic cat. 45-2561 (Promotional Copy))
**Mickey And His Mice - "The Crackerjack" b/w "Abraham, Martin and John" (Marti Records cat. R12986)
Hubert Laws - "Bloodshot" b/w "Let Her Go" (Atlantic cat. 45-5077 (Promotional Copy))
El Chicano - "Cubano Chant" b/w "Viva La Raza" (Kapp Records cat. K-2129)
**Arthur Sterling With The Pucho Band - "Ain't That Right" b/w "Darin's Mambo" (Verve cat. VK-10490 (Special Disc Jockey Record))
Apollo 100 - "Telstar" (Short Version - Mono) b/w "Telstar" (Stereo) (Mega cat. 615-0080 (Promo Copy))
Star Wars - Story, Music and Photos From The Original Motion Picture (Buena Vista Records cat. 450 (Not Cleared For Broadcast))
Barnsley Bill - "Barnsley Rap" b/w "Dance With Ronnie Bossanova" - Music by The Daves - (Mother In Law Records cat. NAG1)
The Beats - "The Beatnik Bounce" (Part 1 & 2) (Columbia cat. 3-41781 (Small Hole 33RPM 7-inch - For Demonstration Use Only Not For Sale)
Al Casey - "Surfin' Hootenanny" with the K-C-ettes b/w "Easy Pickin'" (Stacy cat. 962)
**Bobby Gregg and His Friends - "The Jam" (Part 1 & 2) (Cotton Records cat. 1003)
Helmut Zacharias - "Respect" b/w "Hurdy Gurdy Man" (Capitol cat. P-2415 (Promotional Record Not For Sale))
Chordbenders - "I'm From New Jersey" (State Version) b/w "I'm From New Jersey" (Adapted Version (Phillipsburg, Alpha, Milford, Easton, PA, Bethlehem, PA, Allentown, PA) (Anniversary cat. NO. 1000)

Set List from The Lamp Post

Jody Williams - "Moanin' For Molasses" (Nike cat. 1013 (Promotional Copy Not For Sale))
The Sons Of Moses - "Fatback" (Coral cat. 62549)
The Rumblers - "Soulful Jerk" (Downey cat. D-127 (Promotional Copy))
The Five Counts - "Watermelon Walk" (Brent cat. 7034)
Kai Winding - "Dirty Dog" (Verve cat. VK-10407 (Special Disc Jockey Record))
Four Gents - "Soul Sister" (HBR (Hanna-Barbera Records) cat. HBR 509)
Bill Doggett and Orchestra - "Funky Feet" (Chumley Records cat. CHA-90001 (Promotional Copy Not For Sale))
Jo Jo and the Outcast - "Whole Lot Of Woman" (Sound-O-Rific cat. SOR-926)
The Diplomats of Solid Sound - "Pork Chop" (Estrus Records cat. ES7164)
Orgone - "No More Gravy" (Ubiquity cat. UR7214)
Speedometer - "The Real Me" (DJ Formats Funky People Remix) (Freestyle cat. FSR 7047)
Mauri Bailey - "Soul Pop" (Soul Fire cat. SF-021)
Bobby Blackbird and the Bluejays - "What You Wanna Do" (Cardboard City Records cat. CCR-002)
Lack of Afro featuring Steve Marriott - "Touch My Soul" (Freestyle cat. FSR7044)
Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings - "This Land Is Your Land" (Daptone Records cat. DAP-1019)
Nicole Willis & The Soul Investigators - "Holdin' On" (Timmion Records cat. 012 (Advance Disc Jockey Copy Not For Sale))
Evil Eddie & The Super Slinkys - "3 On The B" (Blow It Hard Records cat. BIH008)
Clarence Foster and the Internal Revenue Service - "Fry Chicken In Your Hot Pants" (Freestyle cat. FSR7014)
The Soul Snatchers - "Get Yourself Together" (Social Beats cat. Social701)
Baby Charles - "Hard Man To Please" (Record Kicks cat. RKX 020)
Marva Whitney - "Soulsisters (Of The World Unite) (Shout! cat. SHOUT-1001)
Quantic featuring Spanky Wilson - "When You're Through" (Modern Funk Freestyle Records ) cat. FSR7041)
J.J. Jones - "Darkness" (ebb cat. 130)
Soul Vendors / Mitchagan & Smile - "Scorcher" Rub A Dub Version (Studio 1 cat.)
The Three Souls - "Hi Heel Sneakers" (Argo cat. 5472)
The Pop-Ups - "Lurking" (HBR (Hanna-Barbera Records) cat. HBR 459)
Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels - "Sock It To Me - Baby!" (New Voice Records cat. N V 820)
The Dartells - "Clap Your Hands" (HBR (Hanna-Barbera Records) cat. HBR 457)
Mickey Lee Lane - "Hey Sah-Lo-Ney" (Swan cat. S-4222-H)
The Children Of Darkness - "Sugar Shack A Go-Go" (Royce cat. 5140)
Sonny & Cher - "It's Gonna Rain" (Atco Records cat. 45-6359)
Tony Joe White - "Polk Salad Annie" (Monument cat. Mn45-1104)
Yellow Bird - "Function At The Junction" (Stereo Village Records cat. 603)
Bob Dylan - "From A Buick 6" (Columbia cat. 4-43389 (picture sleeve))
Python Lee Jackson - "Doin' Fine" (GNP Crescendo cat. GNP 449)
Tom Jones - "Looking Out My Window" (Parrot cat. 45-PAR-40035)
Ike & Tina Turner - "Funkier Than A Mosquita's Tweeter" (Liberty cat. 56216)
Della Reese - "Compared To What" (Avco Embassy cat. AVE-4515)
The Honey Drippers - "Impeach The President" (Alaga Records cat. AL-1017)
Eddie Bo - "Can You HAndle It" (Bo Sound cat. BS-5116)
Parliament - "Breakdown" (Invictus cat. Is 9095)
Cyril Neville - "Gossip" (Josie cat. 45-1014)
Eric Burden & War - "Magic Mountain" (MGM cat. K14118)
Syl Johnson - "Don't Give It Away" (Twinight Records cat. 118)
Irene and the Scotts - "I'm Stuck On My Baby" (Smash cat. S-2138)
The Capitols - "Afro Twist" (Karen cat. 45-1537)
Tom & Jerrio - "Great Goo-Ga-Moo-Ga" (ABC-Paramount cat. 45-10704)
Billy "The Kid" Emerson - "A Dancin' Whippersnapper" (Tarpon Records Inc. cat. 6602)
The Rhoda Scott Trio - "Hey - Hey - Hey!" (Tru-Sound cat. 45-417)
Juggy - "Oily" (Sue cat. SUE 9)
The Pharaohs - "Is That Black Enough For You?" (Capitol cat. P-3072)
The Dapps featuring Alfred Ellis - "There Was A Time" (King cat. 45-6169)
Clarence Paul & The Members - "Operation Breadbasket (Part II)" (Pride cat. PR-3)
The Hidden Cost - "Bo Did It" (Marmaduke Records Inc. (M-4001)
The Bamboos - "King Of The Rodeo (Feat. Megan Washington)" (Tru-Thoughts cat. TRU7177)
Naomi Davis & The Knights of Forty First Street - "Forty First Street Breakdown" (Desco cat. 45-1014)
Breakestra - "At The End Of The Day" (Ubiquity cat. UR7184)
The Boogaloo Investigators - "Let The Groove Move You" (Defunkt cat. DEFF-001)
The Sound Stylistics - "Party People" (Mocambo cat. 45-1003)
The Magnificent Freedom - "Fuck Off And Leave Me Alone" (Our Label Records cat. OUR45-003)
The New Mastersounds - "Drop It Down (B RMX)" (Record Kicks cat. RK45 011)
The Grits - "Mmwauu" (Music With Soul cat. MWS - 002)
Mark Ronson Featuring Alex Greenwald - "Just" (Exit Music cat. RR0047S)
Little Barrie - "Burned Out" (Showdown Records cat. SHOW 1)
Stoned Soul Picnic - "One Dollar Hotel Pt2" (R.W Records cat. 200)
The Stance Brothers - "Youth Groove" (Ricky Tick Records cat. RT024)
Dee Dee Sharpe - "You're Just a Fool In Love" (Atco Records cat. 45-6576)
Harvey Scales & The Seven Sounds - 'Broadway Freeze" (Magic Touch Records cat. MTA-16001)
Bobby Freeman - "S-W-I-M" (Autumn cat. Record No. 5)
Rhythm 'N' Blues Classical Funk Band - "Monster Walk Pt. 2" (Mankind cat. 12001)
Betty Wright - "Shoorah! Shoorah!" (Alston cat. 3711)
Johnnie Taylor (The Soul Philosopher) - "Doing My Own Thing" (Part II) (Stax Records cat. STA-0122)
The Stylistics - "People Make The World Go Round" (Avco Records Corp. cat. AV-4595)
Chocolate Milk - "Action Speaks Louder Than Words" (RCA cat. PB-10290)

Primitive Sound System - The Lamp Post - Oct 15th 9PM - Closing

Hello Y'all,
I had a such blast spinning my way Downtown JC that I am really looking forward to doing this again. Last time out I basically had to grab records that were organized to be filled away since there wasn't a lot of time to prepare. Luckily there were some of my favorite records I own in those boxes waiting to be put a way so mixing up a set was quite easy. Since it was such a good time I am going to keep things on the Soulful side again. This time I am going a bit heavier on the New Funk and Soul including some very recent releases like the Bamboos covering Kings of Leon. Also with All Hallows Eve creeping up on us I'll be giving out some audio Halloween candy. I am not kidding, it was a genuine good time so please come out, come out where ever you are. As always Steff will be holding down the bar (and the taps) so please make nice with the tipping. See you Wednesday.

- pat.
Primitive Sound System - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Wednesday, October 15th
Spinning from 10PM to Closing
Lamp Post Bar & Grill
382 2nd St
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201)-222-1331
http://www.myspace.com/lamppost
Steff's Lampost schedule:
http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=71579&blogID=356928615

45's:
Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings - "This Land Is Your Land" (Daptone Records cat. 1019)
No event is more disturbing than the Presidential election. It is a time when we see how unfortunate our system has become. But, maybe it never was stable. Maybe that is what makes the USA so unique. A certain amount of instability or unpredictability that doesn't allow itself to become grounded. I can probably go on far too long but this is not a political soapbox. So instead, like most of us, I will forge on and continue to be an American regardless of the ruling party, economy and of course the rise of mediocrity. Warts and all... Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings put this out four years ago when most Americans saw there was something horribly wrong with the current administration. There is a somber horn that opens this funky take of the Woody Guthrie Folk classic. Ms. Jones talks each word as to remind us of the importance of the song's message. No matter who, what, where, when or why this land is ours and we always need to remember that. Barack Obama is not a Muslim. Sarah Palin is not folksy. John McCain is not a Maverick. Joe Biden is not a dick. All of them, like all of us, are Americans. This is a brilliant arrangement and much credit should go to Mr. Gabe Roth (who I assume handled this) for taking a standard and making it new. Toward the last half of the song the tempo picks up keeping things from being simply preachy and making sure they are always funky.

The Bamboos featuring Megan Washington - "King Of The Rodeo" (Tru-Thoughts cat. TRU7177)
The Bamboos have always been one of my favorite New Funk bands. They have always been willing to take a chance and make sure they were being different rather than just simply funky. Funky is not a difficult thing to be. It is how you present it that makes one band the JB's and another band just shit. The Bamboos are never shit. On this cover of a Kings of Leon song (that is damn good in its original version) the Bamboos certainly prove that they can take someone else's work and make it their own. The brilliance of this version is that the lead vocals of the original are showcased and used almost as another instrument in the arrangement so rather than imitate this, the Bamboos added the wonderfully soulful vocals of Megan Washington which are out front and take charge. The Bamboos don't change their typical lineup and this version so no less of its time than the Kings of Leon original. This is easily one of my favorite new records, nothing like a cover to spice things up.

The Grits - "Mmwauu" (Music With Soul Records cat. MWS002)
The Grits are the same band that did the amazing "Boom Boom" on the always great Freestyle label. Where "Boom Boom" was simple "Mmwauu" is a bit more complex and at times possibly a little difficult. Heavy ass drums kick this off but then some corny effects from what I could assume is a Rhodes or Yamaha electric keyboard pepper the intro. These are NOT corny to the point where you will fold over laughing or be embarrassed while it is playing but the effects are noticeable and do stand out. I get the feeling someone left the keys in their studio so they felt compelled to use them. The heavy drums, bass and guitar MORE than make up for the kernels left scattered about the studio and the guitar solo about half way through is blistering. Here the effects are combined perfectly with the guitar and drums and suddenly you don't want this to end. What I like about this most is the desire to try something new. Luckily for them, and us, the results are very, very good.

Baby Charles - "Hard Man To Please" (Record Kicks cat. RK45 021)
Baby Charles the band is a well oiled machine. They create a mood, feeling, sound and atmosphere with ease and aggression in equal parts. Too often a ballad is played limp wristed and that is not a crass bash but a fact. Watch one drummer attack the drums regardless of genre or style and then listen to a less aggressive drummer in the same circumstances and you will know exactly what I am referring to. "Hard Man To Please" is by no means a ballad but it needs to be said to understand the power of Baby Charles. Baby Charles attacks. The amazing Dionne Charles is one of the few who can be out front of such an onslaught and stand her ground unfazed. There are times when you can tell that she is building her own attack and bursts open like the top of a volcano. At others she whispers and wraps herself around you in the way a snake may do before striking. It's both beautiful and surprising and it's all Baby Charles.

PSS and Bill Dolan at D.C's Tavern Thursday October 2nd 9PM - Closing

Hello Y'all,
...ehh...ohh...ahh... POP! Yes, that was my brain. This week is a crazy one for sure but the show must go on. Thursday October 2nd I'll be spinning the burning discs of fire along side Bill and Joe at the plush and luxurious D.C.'s Tavern. I have some great new spins in the box including some nice finds from the fine folks at Norton Records (purchased at the Iris Records' Record Riot) and also a stack of new Funk grooves. I've also stuffed the trunk with some Car-tunes and cover versions that I haven't brought out in a while. Despite the brevity of this email (most likely a pleasure to some) I spent a lot of time pulling records for tonight. ...grrr...psst..BANG!

- pat.

Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Primitive Sound System, Bill Dolan & Joe Raaen
Thursday October 2nd 9PM to Closing
D.C.'s Tavern
505 8th Street
Between Jefferson and Madison
BACK IN BACK
Hoboken, New Jersey
PH: 201-792-5550
http://www.dcstavern.com
http://myspace.com/dcstavern

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45-RPM Vinyl Recordings for D.C.'s Tavern:

The Bamboos - "King of The Rodeo" featuring Megan Washington (Tru-Thoughts cat. TRU7177)
The New Mastersounds - "Drop It Down (B RMX)" (Records Kicks cat. RK45 011)
Baby Charles - "Hard Man To Please" b/w "Jackson Fingers" (Records Kicks cat. RK45 021)
The Sound Stylistics - "Back On The Streets" (Mocambo cat. 45-1006)
James Taylor Quartet - "Walkin' The Walk" (Mocambo cat. 45-1008)
Speedometer - "Hot Packet" (Mocambo cat. 45-1013)
Reverend Cleatus and the Soul Saviours - "Mo' Dep" b/w "Paper Cut" (Soulfly Records cat. Tr - 1015)
Byard Lancaster - "Just-Test" (Palm cat. PALM 8)
Blues Rockers - "Calling All Cows" (Excello cat. 45-2062)
The Grand Prees - "Jungle Fever" (Golden Groove Records cat. GG 101)
The Ideals - "The Gorilla" (Cortland cat. C-110)
The Noise Makers - "Panic" (Astra Records Company cat. A-102)

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ALSO!

This Saturday I will be joining the amazing Justin Frohwirth for a night of Punk Rock, Converse sneakers and all the "I am so much cooler than you" attitude that the citizens of Viceland can muster. You need to RSVP at the link below so that you can get into the event and possibly be humiliated in the Do's & Don'ts! Admit it, you can't stop going through them. If you have never heard Justin spin and "claim" to like Punk Rock you would be stupid to miss him. Class is always in session and pleasantly you will know about 1% of what he is playing.

VICE Presents Pissed Jeans and Children @ Glasslands
Saturday Oct 4th - 9PM - 4AM
Glasslands Gallery, 289 Kent Ave, Brooklyn 11211
DJs Justin CollectorScum & Primitive Sound System
9PM - 11PM Complimentary Tito's Vodka, Colt 45 & Sake2Me
RSVP: www.viceland.com/runningshow

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And ALSO again... Wednesday October 15th at The Lamp Post Bar and Grill in Jersey City hosted by the wonderful Steff Kautzmann

Brooklyn Record Riot! Set list - Sept. 28, 2008

Brooklyn Record Riot Set List:
The Ventures - "Swingin' Creeper" (Dolton Records cat. No. 306)
Leo Valentino Trio - "Behind The Out House" (Camelia Records of Richness)
Eddie Chamblee - Dayton Selby on Organ - "Honeybee" (Prestige cat. PR 45-302)
Tommy Wills Man With A Horn - "K.C. Drive" (Juke cat. JB 2025)
Jimmy McGriff - "The Worm" (Solid State cat. SD 2524)
Rusty Bryant - "Fire Eater" (Prestige cat. PRT-750)
Vocal: Jimmy Jones, Soul Brother No. 2 Henry DeMeo & Orch - "Say, Amen, Brother" (Jody Records cat. 9014)
Victory Travelers - "I Know I've Been Changed" (Courtin' cat. 1003)
The Blues Groove - "Makin' It" (Verve cat. VK-10417)
Bobby Quesada - "Bataola Boogaloo" (Fania cat. 464)
Willie Colon - "Jazzy" (Fania Records cat. 444)
Monguito Santamaria - "Hey Sister" (Fania cat. 481)
Gate Wesley & Band - "(Zap! Pow!) Do The Batman" (Atlantic cat. 45-2319)
Lorenzo Holden - "The Wig" (Cee-Jam Records)
Lester Young and his California Playboys - "Wobble Time" (Chase Record Co. cat. 1200)
The Voxpoppers - "The Last Drag" (Mercury cat. 71282X45)
The Shades - "Skip It" (Joey Records Inc. cat. J-6206)
The Arrows featuring Davie Allen - "Moon Dawg '65)
Soul Continentals - "Bowlegs" (Sound Stage 7 cat. 45-2609)
Frankie Newsome - "Don't Mess With My Lovemaker (Part II)" (Savern cat. SN-104)
Curtis Davis - "Your Love And My Money" (Bev-Mar Records cat. BM 1001)
Dotti Wright - "Eclipse Of A Lover" (F - M Records cat. 471)
Mary Lou Williams - "The Credo" (Mary Records cat. MA-6)

Primitive Sound System at the Brooklyn Record Riot - Sun Sept 28th

Hello Y'all,
If there is one truth in this world and it is simple... "YOU CAN NEVER HAVE ENOUGH VINYL RECORDS!" To prove this, people who already own thousands of records make up excuses for buying more and rationalize every purchase. So start thinking you collector geeks because this Sunday is the second Iris Records' Brooklyn Record Riot at The Warsaw. There is quite a line-up of DJ's and last time I picked up some great records. I meant to say, "I got ONLY records I had been looking for forever and spent WAY under what they were worth." Please join us for some great music, food and of course crates of records that you r e a l l y need. In honor of these heated political times I will spin at the pleasure of all those present.

- pat.

Primitive Sound System
VINYL RULES!
"Audio Visual Triumphs and Disasters" - http://primitivesoundsystem.blogspot.com

Brooklyn Record Riot!
Sunday September 28th - 11AM - 8PM
The Warsaw
261 Driggs Ave., Brooklyn
http://www.myspace.com/bkrecordriot

The rest of the year visit them at their shop...
Iris Records
114 Brunswick St.
Jersey City, NJ
info@irisrecs.com

Line-up of DJ's:

11:00 AM : Phast Phreddie the Boogaloo Omnibus
12:00 PM : Pat. James Longo - The Primitive Sound System
1:00 PM : DJ Crazeology, the Frequency Hopper
2:00 PM : Ira the K (of Yo La Tango)
3:00 PM : Miriam Linna (of Norton Records)
4:00 PM : Josh Styles (of Smashed! Blocked!)
5:00 PM : DJ Kaneta (of Facing Facts, Tokyo)
6:00 PM : DJ Sandman
7:00 PM : Alex Ferguson

Some records that I will not sell you... so don't ask:

Victory Travelers - "I Know I've Been Changed"
Sweet Jesus those are divine drums that intro this Gospel groover. Typical to many Gospel tunes the title is repeated many times throughout by both the lead and the background singers. The recording and the performance are raw and tough. The The drums pound and the bass is heavy as hell, oops sorry... I mean, powerful enough to shake the walls of Jericho. I love the raspy lead vocal. It sounds as if he may stop the song at any moment and clear his throat but he soldiers on and sounds amazing right to his last passionate shout. Please, don't change a thing.

The Tri-Ems - "Tea Box" (Maurci cat. M-112)
The Rhythm Ace and The Rhythm King are easily two of the coolest pieces of equipment ever invented to make music. When you combine them in just the right way with live instrumentation you get the magic that is "Tea Box." Of course this is the same beauty that was cut by Simtec Simmons also for Maurci. This version is a bit less loungey than Mr. Simmons brilliant version and also is recorded with a bit more punch. The guitar is free flowing and keeps everything from getting too samey. The beat is sped up and the Rhythm Ace/King takes the back seat to a very aggressive organ. I also love the way it just drops off so, so will I and start it right back up.

The Venture - "The Swingin Creeper" (Dolton cat. No 306)
I love The Ventures. I have about twenty LPs of their music and about five 7-inches. This is without a doubt one of my favorites. It has everything I could ask for and more. Steady, driving beat, swinging organ, fuzzed out guitar and thumping bass. This moves along like a spy theme but has enough going on to be the whole soundtrack. Swingin, creeping, spooky and fun. The drums never once break from their driving groove as the guitar takes an amazing fuzzy run, things drop of a bit to allow the organ to slide out of the darkness and create an even more deep, moody space. This would have fit nicely on The Ventures In Space LP but sounds right at home on The Ventures A Go Go!

The Arrows - "Moon Dawg '65" (Tower cat. 133)
WOOOOHOOO! A big drum roll and speeding guitar burst off the line and don't let up until the finish line. There are a few yelps and yells heard echoing down the track but this is all about the guitar and beat. I definitely don't have enough Davie Allen records and every time I listen to this I wish I had boxes of them. The double guitar sound here is so sharp and moving. As the rhythm keeps everything in line the high pitch chords and notes dance around it almost teasing it. I think Davie Allen made about a thousand records so I may have to borrow some money.

Miles Davis - "Right Off Part II" (Columbia cat. 4-45350)
I play the Jack Johnson LP quite often. It is hard to choose when reaching for the Miles but this LP hits the deck more often than not. It usually comes down to this and In A Silent Way. I knew there was a 7-inch out there from the session and it took a minute to track one down. No youngins, this aint no tribute to the barefoot hippy singer song writer but a cut from the proposed soundtrack for a documentary about one of the best boxers to step into the ring. Johnson's fight against Jim Jeffries dubbed "The Fight of The Century" caused riots after he easily defeated Jeffries. Johnson lived his life above the racism of his time breaking many barriers and sadly died the year before Jackie Robinson brought about an end to segregation in sports. "Part II" opens right in the heart of the groove and drops suddenly into a long held organ note that leaps into what can only be the sounds of lefts and rights finding the mark. The beat Billy Cobham lays down isn't necessarily funky but it would be impossible to describe it as anything else. John McLaughlin is masterful in his choices of notes and sounds and obviously the same is true for the rest of the band. Herbie Hancock beats the Frafisa picking apart the melody and breaking up the rhythm. Hancock and McLaughlin are joined together by Miles he seems content walking through and only adding "words" and action when necessary. I wish the 7-inch ended with the Brock Peters reading then this is just 2:49 of a 27 minute long track.

Willie Colon - "Jazzy" (Fania Records cat. 444)
Sometimes the title can be just as misleading as the cover. Willie Colon calls this burning Boo-ga-loo - "Jazzy." Although the piano is certainly swinging the rest of this is nothing short of Boogaloo madness. Colon's band is one of the tightest to ever step in the studio and that goes for Jazz or Boogaloo. Blasting horns open this up before letting the rest of the band hit the dance floor and keep ever moving. Heads are nodding and shoulders are shaking as the drums and percussion push this into feverish territory. The bones come back for a little solo action before the band jumps back in with a little tribute to the Madness of Joe Cuba.