UK RECORD COLLECTOR magazine February 2018 Debbie Harry Blondie Deep Purple

Record Collector Dated Feb 2018 - Brand New Issue

Ever wondered what it's like to be caught up in the moment when a group goes from being alternative heroes flirting with chart success to becoming a mainstream pop phenomenon? Well Kris Needs was there during Blondie's incredible 1978 - the year Parallel Lines cemented itself in the affections of every right-thinking pop fan. He remembers what it was like in the recording studio, backstage and at manic instores; the good times and the moments when things, understandably, started to fray, it's a helluva read. We also talk to ace photographer Martyn Goddard about snapping the band at their peak and feature candid shots from the time by guitarist Chris Stein.

We tell the story behind Deep Purple (1968-1976)'s Made In Japan - the album that was originally conceived as a Japan-only stopgap release, but ended up becoming the record that not only broke them worldwide, but changed the way people thought about live albums. So why did it mark the beginning of the end for their classic line-up? We find out.


Elsewhere, we talk to a couple of US bands who have each proved they're in it for the long haul and have fascinating discographies to boot. Firstly, Yo La Tengo discuss their influences and a career of remarkable records. Secondly, new wave faves The Feelies let us in on the secrets of staying together. Clue – lots of side-projects.


The thing about record collecting is that you're never done, there'll always be something out there to pique your curiosity, as proved by Doug Shipton (of the intrepid Finders Keepers Records), who writes about the most desirable Russian records from the Soviet era. It makes for a fascinating read - not only drawing your attention to some incredible music (and sleeves!), but as an account of what happens when music is pushed properly underground.


And there are two profiles of quite different but extraordinary musical lives. Sidney Barnes' collaborations read like a who’s who of US soul music - we talk to him about everything from his Rotary Connection days to working with the likes of George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic. We also tell the story of 'Big' Pete Deuchar, an undersung hero of the UK trad jazz scene, who worked with everyone from John McLaughlin to Ginger Baker and ended up a cycling champ, obviously.


Our columnists are all present and correct - Ian McCann writes about the relationship between jazz and civil rights in 60s America; Bob Stanley remembers France Gall; Luke Haines ponders what makes a rock snob; and David Quantick tells us how he fell for soundtracks.


And there's so much more: we also go behind the scenes at The British Library's National Sound Archive and a modern pressing plant; Fujiya & Miyagi's David Best gives us a look at his record collection; there are Q&As with Camel - Band and Tony Banks; not to mention all the usuals.


The reviews section is as bursting as ever - reissues from Roxy Music; Bert Jansch (Official); Felt; and The Residents are rated, while new ones from Car Seat Headrest; Gwenno and Ty are much-admired.


Phew, now... we've got to get back to work on the next issue, enjoy this one!