Rockin' Heavy, Hard & Steady 6: It's Those Unsung 70s Hard Rock Scorchers Again

Unsung and (mostly) rare, 16 in all. Baby's (from Texas) "Long Legged Woman" is one of my big favs. Light of Darkness' (from Germany) "Soul Francisco" another biggie. UK's Tempest with the awesome cover of "Paperback Writer" is (probably) my favorite of them all. Lots of bands to check out including Switzerland's "Tea," Japan's "The Mops," etc. Enjoy!

And It's Whispered That Soon, If We All Call For Some Nineties Tunes III

Another collection of good to great nineties tracks that I haven't heard over the airwaves in years or in some cases, not at all. The majority of tracks are not rare, with a few exceptions. First things first, I've completely forgot about Apollo 440's "Stop the Rock" and strangely enough, I thought it was released post-90s. Lid's "The Dream Is Over" is one of my top favs and like aforementioned, I also thought it was another post-90s track. The track is similar to what was released around the early 00s (Trapt, Creed, etc).

The rarest track, and I'll be surprised if anyone has heard it, is Soul Tattoo's "Stutter." I heard it one night from a local college radio, and as the norm, I just had to get the CD. Another possible rare track is Paw's "Couldn't Know." And the other (possible) rare track would be Inclined's "How Deep Is This Well?" Inclined had that Spin Doctors feel/sound going for them. Urge Overkill's "(Today Is) Blackie's Birthday" off  '91's The Supersonic Storybook, is also their (imo) best album.

Spacehog's "Cruel to Be Kind" was the reason why I needed the CD. And, how come you rarely/never hear Dionne Farris' "I Know" - the track is still solid. Anyway, the whole mix is solid. Enjoy!

Tread Softly! The Best & Breast of 60s-70s Psychedelic Rock III

Another mix of the usual - rare (to me) gems of psych and progressive rock, from '67 to '74. Birth Control's "Flesh and Blood" is (probably) my fav. Blackwater Park's "Roundabout" is another standout track. Raw Meat's "Stand-by Girl" and Blue Effect's "Návštěva u tety Markéty, vypití šálku čaje" are a couple of more favs. Brian Davison's Every Which Way's "All in Time" is another to note. As usual, they're all good. Enjoy!

Got No Bushy Bushy Blonde Hairdo: Modern Surfin' Rock

I've mentioned before that I've always loved surf music, but wasn't all that keen for the more modern style. That changed once I heard the Surfaholics' '95 album, "Tiki-A-Go-Go" and that was that. In this mix, 18 instrumental (maybe a couple of talkin' lines, or shouts, farts, etc) modern surfer rockers, and they're oh so good. The highlight, and a must to be heard, is the 20 minute epic (you read that right - 20 minute surf track!?!) "Broadcast" by Tsunami Experiment. It doesn't drag, no droning, no filler, it's just good. Real good.

Johnny & The Waves' "Tidal Wave" and Indy Tumbita's "Linda" are big favs. Retrofoguetes' "O Avanço da Robótica" and Frankie and the Pool Boys' "Cat Fight" biggies too. Intóxicos' "Miagui Beach" is another worthy track. They're all good. Enjoy!

Popcorn Mania 14: Just a Little Bit More

Popcorn music/style seems to be so well loved, why not another! 18 tracks (I'd say mostly rare), from '56's  - "Sing On, Baby" by Jane Baker, to '68's "I Feel the Pain" by Linda Queen. As usual, all good tracks. I don't have any particular favs but if pressed to mention a few, I'll go with Jimmy Ruffin's "Lucky Lucky Me," Johnny Wyatt's "I Wouldn't Change a Thing About You," Gene McDaniels' "A Tear," and Eileen Rodgers' "Crazy Dream." Enjoy!

A Little dnb'll Do Ya!

Yes, my Mom would dabble a bit of that Brylcreem in our hair. I have no recollection if it bothered or not. Oh, what the heck am I talkin' about? Just another play in the title (Brylcreem's "A little dab will do you" ad), and this time, a great mix of drum and bass (the melodic side). I'm a fan of dnb but not some of the sub-genres and sounds, in particular the low-frequency harsh sub-bass, harsh-wobble, harsh-wub, and harsh-reese effects (I think it's labelled as Neurofunk, but not sure). You've heard the dnb I generally love in some of the 'Downtime' mixes. So anyway...

I'm pretty sure it was Roni Size's "Brown Paper Bag" that opened doors to further explore dnb, breakbeat, atmospheric dnb, etc. It's also in this mix. Jrumhand's "Something a Little..." is fairly new to my ears and bound to be another big fav. Simplification's "How Many Ways" (samples Billy Paul's 73's hit "Me and Mrs. Jones") is a big fav. And so is Bachelors of Science's "Hold On." A dozen tracks and all good, of course. Enjoy!

Drive Baby Drive, Vol. 11: Motor Skills for Everyone!

More modern motorik, mostly rare. A dozen tracks in all. Favorite is probably Stan Und Hilda's "Motorik für alle." They use a sample of Stardust's Music Sounds Better with You, and in turn, samples Chaka Khan's Fate. It's a repeated loop, and probably won't sit well for those who prefer a little more variety. I happen to love it - sometimes those grooves just suck you in, while time feels like an afterthought. C.A.R.'s "Große Trommel" is another goodie, and so is Fujiya & Miyagi's "Ankle Injuries." Frankensteins Ballet's "Club der Geißterfahrer" rounds out my top favs. Enjoy!

For the curious: According to translator, Motorik für alle in English = Motor Skills for Everyone

Doo-Wop Ballads: Love Is Love [1955-64]

Plenty of rare tracks. Aside from all good to great tracks, personal favs are Joey & The Ovations' "I Still Love You," Chicago based The Orchids with "Newly Wed," The Chromatics (feat. Augie Austin) with "My Heart Let Me Be Free," New York's The Inspirations with "The Feeling of Her Kiss," and Bertha Tillman's "Oh My Angel." The latter a big, big fav.

And then there's New York's The Starlites with their awesome (and probably my favorite) "Valarie." My first introduction to this classic was Frank Zappa's version.

20 tracks in all, from 1955 to 64. I hope you enjoy this mix, and possibly more to come.

And It's Whispered That Soon, If We All Call For Some Nineties Tunes II

Another round with many rare tracks, yet several familiar names. A little more diverse too including New York's own Bright, and their motorik-styled "Pannonica." It's also one of my top favs from this mix. Hair metal's L.A. Guns and their awesome ballad, "It's Over Now" is not only another top fav, but a personal fav (of many) as well.

I wasn't all that keen over EMF but I do like their one track, "Admit It." Canada's The Weakerthans are a pretty good group, and their "Diagnosis" is (imo) one of their best. Remember Bowie's Tin Machine? "You Belong in Rock N' Roll" is one of the best tracks off their second release. Helmet's "Vaccination" is one of their best unsung gems. New Bad Things' "Caravan" and Spin Doctors' "How Could You Want Him" are a couple of more favs.

Oh, and can't forget Pee's "ihop," sometimes written as IHOP or I Hop, from other sites. Their CD has it as "ihop" and that supersedes the aforementioned guesswork. It's also a great track.

Lots of goodies. 18 tracks in all. Enjoy!

And It's Whispered That Soon, If We All Call For Some Nineties Tunes!

Another original title! 🙄  Ahhh, the nineties. It's mind boggling to think some of these tracks are more than thirty years old! And so, what's the scoop with this mix? I was going for more of the deeper cuts, along with a few "Wow, I haven't heard that tune in ages!" All great tracks mind you. Let's see...

Remember Imperial Drag? An US band that released just one album back in '96. You probably recall their singles, "Boy or a Girl" or "Spyder" but here at the Groovy Library, the best track is "Breakfast by Tiger (Kiss It All Goodbye)." And, the track not only on this mix, but top 3 (probably #1) as well.

Live's "Lakini's Juice" is another big fav. And so is Goo Goo Dolls' "Ain't That Unusual." That band used to be soooo good.

Talk Show's "Peeling an Orange" is another big fav, and imo the best track off their only release. Talk Show is really Stone Temple Pilots sans Scott. And speaking of STP, "Ride the Cliché" is included and also one of their best unsung gems. Okay, I'm biased because STP is one of my all-time favorite bands (top 10).

Imani Coppola's "Legend of a Cowgirl" is not only a great tune, but impressive with the sample and/or interpolation of Donovan's Sunshine Superman. As of today, I've never met anyone who recalls the tune.

Anyway, eighteen tracks in all. And yes, a Canadian band named Pure released a track called "Pure." And it's good too. Enjoy!

Popcorn Mania 13: What a Feeling!

A baker's dozen of popcorn comps. Cleo Jons' "Why Don't You Do Right (Get Me Some Money, Too!)" is a goodie. Wanda Jackson's "Whirlpool" is another fav. I really like Ginny Arnell's "Dumb Head" but I can see the controversy if released today. Apparently, Ginny herself was reluctant about the track, but after hearing the final product, she liked what she heard.

Nella Dodds' "Come See About Me" is another fav with a story. From what I've read/heard, Berry Gordy heard it in the studio and immediately had the Supremes record and release their version before Nella's. I've read inconsistent release dates on the net whether who was first, but I'm sure the exact info for what went down is out there. I suppose it don't really matter much to me. It's all good. And speaking of good, 20 tracks in all. Enjoy!

Everything Under the Sun Is in Tune 4: A Prospectus of HPPR! 69-79

Copied intro from first volume... HPPR = Hard, Progressive, & Psychedelic Rock. I wanted to expand the psychedelic rock a wee bit more from the previous mixes by mixing in some progressive and hard rock. And of course, the usual deeper and obscure gems rule the mix. And, to repeat myself over and over, I only include the tunes I really like or love, aka melody-licious! No mediocrity!

Back in '79, I don't think I've heard any of the tracks, let alone the artists (with exception to Steve Hackett, Man, and maybe Apocalypse). It's unfortunate for I'm sure I'd be wearing out the vinyls. Favorites this time around? 18 Karat Gold's "If My Guru Would Know." It's catchy and Gu-roovey (bad joke, haha). Man's "It Is as It Must Be" is really good. Blackjack's "Fallin'" is a great rocker. If you think the singer sounds like Michael Bolton, that's because you're correct. Bruce Kulick (guitarist) was also a member. Avalanche's "Tie Your Laces" is another fav. Roland Kovac New Set's "The Master Said (Part I)" is just the last 10 minutes edited out. The first half (aka Part I) is the best part.

16 tracks and all good. Enjoy!

Rockin' Rollin' Doo-Wop 3: Tick ​​Tock A-Woo!

Back in the first volume (find it here), I mentioned "Zoom" by The Starlighters but didn't have a good quality mp3. The tune has to be one of the heaviest, and rockiest doo-wop track I've ever heard. I eventually found one and forgot all about it until Chi-Town sent me the track, after reading aforementioned in the first volume. I decided to use his track for this mix. And speaking of this mix...

It took more than six months to get here but imo, a worthy wait. You'll notice (like the previous volumes) that some tracks don't sound all that doo-wop like. It's all good music to me, regardless of the labels. My favorites? Well, my fav is a toss-up between "Zoom" and George Zimmerman and The Thrills' "Ain't Got the Money to Pay for This Drink." Other favs include The Genies' "Who's That Knocking," The Isley Brothers' "Everybody's Gonna Rock and Roll" and The Hollyhocks' "You for Me." Oops, forgot about Dave Collins & The Scrubs' "Bluesy Me" and Grady Chapman and The Suedes' "Don't Blooper." 20 tracks in all. They're all good. Enjoy!

Popcorn Mania 12: Gonna Have a Party!

I hope the popcorn fans are still around. I'm not sure how many of the 20 tracks are rare, but the majority are rare to me. Bobby Angelle's "There Goes My Baby" is probably my top fav of the bunch. Johnny Restivo's "Last Night on the Back Porch" would be up there too. And so is Esther Phillips' Beatles take on And I Love Her as "And I Love Him." Obrey Wilson's "In a Woman's Eyes" is also another goodie. All tracks from 1960 to '67. Enjoy!

Drive Baby Drive, Vol. 10: Get Your Motorik Runnin'!

Mooz mentioned/commented in one of his mixtapes posts how we individually fathom as the best compilers (perhaps not worded correctly (paraphrased) but that's the gist). I certainly have... and sure, even today (lol). The point - when I continue a series, the next volume (imo) is a bit better than its predecessor. Example - this mix. It's onerous thinkin' back to the mentality from the earlier mix, and the obligatory thoughts of "Ooo yeah, this is the smoker fer sure. I can't top this one..." And here we are, and this one not only smokes but better yet!

14 grooves, and a few singing lines here and there (not much). I suppose my favorite is the last track, Verstärker's "Jenseits des Jenseits." According to translator, Verstärker is German for Amplifier. The band is from the US. It's a great track, and shortly after the 5 minute mark, it's fast and doesn't let up until the end. Fujiya & Miyagi's "Knickerbocker" is another big fav. And so is Suralin's "Bohemian Bourgeoisie." I chose The Shadow Sea's extended version of "The Remnant" because I thoroughly enjoy good repetitive grooves. "Infinite Beatle Crisis" by Anazgnos is another fav. I have no idea behind the title. It's an instrumental, and a good one too. Anyway, they're all good. Enjoy!

Cruisin' Under Starlit Desert Skies 3

Do you feel like headin' out for a ride cruisin' through a warm, summer evening to the sounds of an awesome soundtrack? "Cruisin' Under Starlit Desert Skies 3" is just the ticket. It's broken down into four parts: 1) It's full throttle from the get go, and it doesn't let up... 2) You're just cruisin' now, top down feelin' the breeze... 3) You're headin' back now, winding down, settlin' into the comfortable stage... 4) and you're home and relaxed. And what a rush!

When they say the third time's a charm, they ain't kiddin'. I had a blast with this mix (note: I also had a blast revising the first two volumes. You can find them here - VOLUME 1 and VOLUME 2). As usual, many of the tracks are "Desert Rock." Big, BIG favorites in Ape Shifter's "Mind of You." If that track doesn't get your gears in motion, then go for Giant Lungs' "Ego." King Buffalo's "Regenerator" is another fav. And so is Jhufus' "Oneiric Sky." In the winding down section, Rollerball's "Ganie's Theme 2" is a big, big fav. They're all good.

This volume is definitely my favorite in the series. I hope to do more. Enjoy!

Drive Baby Drive, Vol. 9: More Motorik!

The first volume of the series was all modern motorik (btw, it's been revised - Drive Baby Drive, Volume 1). This new mix is also all modern, sans a couple of '70s tracks (Neu!'s "Neuschnee" and Michael Rother's "Flammende Herzen"). You gotta love motorik. And what is Motorik you ask? A good to-the-point explanation from the www... The motorik beat is a distinctive rhythmic pattern characterized by a steady, propulsive pulse and a strict adherence to a consistent tempo.

A dozen tracks in all. My favorite is the last and longest track - Planet Bit's "Is ittt Future or Is ittt Past." A couple of Vert:X tracks ("The Pythia (Xylitol - Tape Edit)" and "DTFMEXT2MIX2") as well. Einstellung's "Tot" is another fav. As I normally say, they're all good. Enjoy!

Please Accept This Collect Call Mister Astronaut

Back in my day, long distance calls were outrageously overpriced. I could just imagine the cost if it were possible to ring up Neil Armstrong back in '69 up there on our one and only natural satellite. Okay, enough of the dramatics...

16 rare (to the casual listener) and awesome prog/progressive rock, mostly 70s with one 60s track (Can's "Oscura Primavera"), and a few 80s. Spain's Eduardo Bort opens and closes the set with "Thoughts (Pensamientos) 1ª parte" and "Thoughts (Pensamientos) 2ª parte." Birth Control (from Germany) with "Plastic People" is a goodie. Epsilon (another German band) with "Two-2-II" is another goodie. France's Taï Phong with "Crest" is yet another fav. Eden Rose (another band from France) with "Travelling" is you guessed it, another fav. They're all good. Enjoy!

Everything Under the Sun Is in Tune 3: An Aperçu of HPPR! 68-75

Continuing on with another round of rare hard, progressive, & psychedelic rock. Let's see...

From Peru, Telegraph Avenue's "Tookie Tookie" begins the mix, and also one of my big favs of the 16 tracks. Florida's own Tin House and their '71 track "Endamus Finallamus" is another fav. And so is Denmark's Young Flowers with "April '68." Also Rochester, New York's Black Sheep with "To Whom It May Concern" another fav. Black Sheep was the last band Lou Gramm (vocalist) was in before joining Foreigner. Anyway, all goodies. Enjoy!

Everything Under the Sun Is in Tune 2: A Compendium of '70s HPPR!

HPPR = Hard, Progressive, & Psychedelic Rock. Another scorching volume, 16 tracks in all, and all '70s. As for my top favs, probably Jericho's "Featherbed" would be right up there. It's close to 10 minutes but it's not long enough. Stray's "Move It" is another excellent track. The Mops' "Town Where I Was Born" is another goodie.

The track "Law of the Land" by Asia is not the same band as the Heat of the Moment dudes. And, the last three tracks do pack a punch. Bandit's "Woman" is a great crank-it-up track. Axis' "Juggler" is so well produced/recorded, I thought for sure that it was a late 80s/early 90s release. Enjoy!

Everything Under the Sun Is in Tune: A Conspectus of HPPR! 69-77

HPPR = Hard, Progressive, & Psychedelic Rock. I wanted to expand the psychedelic rock a wee bit more from the previous mixes by mixing in some progressive and hard rock. And of course, the usual deeper and obscure gems rule the mix. And, to repeat myself over and over, I only include the tunes I really like or love, aka melody-licious! No mediocrity!

My favs? Jacky Chalard's "L'agonie" - a 3 minute instrumental tune that could have been stretched to 30 minutes. I melt in that groove. Please note: You'll also find the tune credited to Gilbert Deflez. The tunes are almost exact except the latter clocks in a minute less, hence the credit to the composer (Jacky) from the source.

Finland's progressive rock group Haikara and their '73 "Change" leans more to hard rock. Yep, fits the mix's intention. Brainbox's awesome "Dark Rose" reminds me of Cargo's "Finding Out" (included in the "Drive Baby Drive" series). Hmm, both bands from the Netherlands but as far as I know, no other association between the two. btw, Jan Akkerman (Focus) also played guitar for Brainbox.

One of my favorite tracks is also the shortest - Emmanuel Brun's instrumental "La voix psychédélique." I really wish it was longer, a LOT longer.

For the curious, I included Victor Brady's "Soul Fungi" and yes, that's a steel drum you're hearing. And, I also included Bolder Damn's "Dead Meat." It's a 16-minute romp-fest. Can you handle it? 

16 tracks and all so good. Crank it up and enjoy!

There She Goes! The Best & Breast of 60s-70s Psychedelic Rock II

Continuing on... 20 more tracks of psychedelic & garage rock, some mod, beat, etc, from '66 to '72. Way too many favs to list. How about my top favs? Hmm...

Paul's Collection's "What Have I Done." The only thing I know about the band is that they're from Belgium. This track from '70 sounds inspired by The Who, or at least the drummer and especially the bassist. Regardless, a stellar track. Steel Wool's rendition of the Guess Who's "No Sugar Tonight" is another fav. Steel Wool was an alias for Lodi, who were previously known as The Knickerbockers.

? and The Mysterians' "Ain't It a Shame" is another big fav. The Cyran' Shames' "The Sailing Ship" is another biggie. The same for John Wooley & Just Born's "You're Lying." Anyway, I'll say it - they're all good! Some more than good. Enjoy!

Not a FreakShow! The Best & Breast of 60s-70s Psychedelic Rock I

I gave myself a week to rest, more or less farted around. I made no plans what's next and simply waited for any kind (music wise) of inspiration. And there it was... "Action Painting" by The Rickets (erroneously spelled Ricketts on a few compilations). It's also my fav of the 20 mostly psychedelic, garage, mod/beat rock tracks, ranging from '66 to '71.

Other big favs - The Dream's "Can I Ask You One More Question (Rebellion)" from '69. Also, Stone Circus' epic-like "Inside-Out Man," also from '69. And the Empty Vessels' "Low Toby," also from '69 is another highlight. Evil Eyes' "Moving Around" from '67 is another goodie. They're all good. Enjoy!

Groovy Library's All-Time Favorite Super-Duper Christmas Gems, Vol. 4

Now how about that! One more before the big day, and a continuance of Groovy Library's all-time favorite Christmas gems. As mentioned in the previous volume, I have way too many favs and may have to end the series, but who knows for next year. Meanwhile, here's volume 4...

Vince Guaraldi Trio's "Linus and Lucy (drum overdub)" - okay, it's not an official remix, but someone who dubbed over drums and a distorted guitar (the latter is low in the mix, and at times sounds like a trumpet with the wah-wah effects). I love it but have no idea who they are.

Also included the 2022 mix of VGT's "Christmas Time Is Here," the instrumental version. REO Speedwagon's "Sleigh Ride" is probably my all-time favorite rock version. Pastor Brad's "O Come All Ye Faithful" should delight the fans of harder-edged rock. And yes, I am a big fan of Buck Owens' "Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy." That tune can really stick in your head, lol. Dolph Chaney's "Jingle Bells" is a take on Van Halen's Panama. It's fun, and jolly too! And, you've probably heard it several times over the years in commercials, numerous tv and films, etc, the Boston Pops Orchestra's "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy." It's short and sweet, and love it still.

20 tracks in all. Merry Christmas everyone!

How About 20 Last Christmases!

There are a few hundred covers of Wham!'s Last Christmas, and that's the official count. I wasn't all that keen for the original tune when first released. It wasn't until I heard The Final's (first track) version when it finally clued in that it was indeed, a pretty decent tune. I now listen to several versions, and 20 to share with you all. I haven't heard every single version, so I'm sure there's gold out there. Fortunately, this collection should suffice.

A mix of genres in this collection - rock, pop, hard rock, pop-punk, dance, downtempo, etc. As mentioned previously, The Final's version is (probably) my favorite. I also love the drum-sampled dancey version by Whigfield. The Twang's take leans a little to revisionist country. Other versions by Rubber Band (a Beatles parody group), The Dollyrots, The Swingle Singers, Pullover (another fav), etc. 20 groups in all.

I'm not sure if I'll have another mix before the big day. If not, then a very merry Christmas to everyone! Take care of yourselves.

Snazzy Jazzy Christmas Jazz You've Never Heard! Vol. III

I'd say this set leans more to "I've never heard this before let alone the artist/band" than rare, considering most of the tracks are more modern. "Blitzen" (Joe Wilder on trumpet) by Leonard Feather & Ralph Burns is the earliest track (1954). The Modern Jazz Quartet's "England's Carol" is the other earlier track (1960). Other than a few 80s & 90s tracks, the rest are 00s.

I don't think I could pick one track over them all. Wynton Marsalis' "We Three Kings of Orient Are" would be right up there though, at a mesmerizing 9 minute tour-de-force. Nary a moment of boredom or reaching for the fast-forward button, for it'll pull you right in from start to finish. Gabriel Latchin Trio's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" is another to take note. Tia Fuller's "Little Drummer Boy" is another worthy addition to the many covers.

Vince Guaraldi Trio's "Skating (#3, take 7)" is close to the original release that you may not even notice/hear a difference. Mark Shane's X-Mas Allstars' "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" and Alban Darche's "Hark!" are a couple more excellent tracks. Enjoy!

A Little of That Funky, Funky Christmas

I started to work on this mix almost immediately after the last one, and got sidetracked. The original intent was for a mix of soul & funk, but decided to go all funk. However, I forgot to recheck all the previous tracks and missed one. The Emotions' "Black Christmas" (btw, is a great track) isn't quite funky, but more pop-soul. And because of just that one error, I had to alter the title. And in my usual fashion, the new title is vacuous sarcasm (a play on old sayings, eg. making a mountain out of an anthill, et al).

20 tracks (actually 21, the last track a very short bonus) with half from the '70s (tracks 1-10), and the other half '00s. My favorites? Most of 'em. Andy Mowatt's "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" should impress other guitarists out there. Funky Turkey's "Jingle Bell Funk" is fun. Just the name of the band and song title is worthy enough. The Clark Sisters' "Go Tell It on the Mountain" is an impressive take. Also, not one but two versions of  "God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman." Milly & Silly's "Gettin Down for Xmas" is a good funky opener to kick things off. Hmm, Funk Machine's "Soul Santa" is another. They're all good. Enjoy!

Santa Can Kick Yer... ...and 22 Other Delights

This is all about Santy Claus, and what good tracks they are (from '34 to '69). It begins with what's considered the first official release of "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" by Harry Reser & His Orchestra from '34 (either the source was carefully remastered/equalized, or original acetate in pristine condition and ripped using exceptional equipment - I was vastly impressed compared to other rips, including my own). I've also included George Hall & The Hotel Taft Orchestra's version from the same year. And while on the subject of the Haven Gillespie/J. Fred Coots classic, I've included several other versions as well, most notably Al Hirt, and The Korn Kobblers, personal big favs respectively.

22 tracks in all, and I don't think I've ever heard any of 'em played over the airwaves. My favorite is Rocki Lane & the Gross Group's "Santa Soul." What an awesome track, and not surprisingly, a 'B' side. Tennessee Ernie Ford's "A Rootin' Tootin' Santa Claus" is a good 'ol tootin' track. Ty Whitney's "Surfin' Santa Claus" is another gem, and so is Poppa John Gordy & His Dixielanders' "Santa Plays the Trombone (In the North Pole Band)." They're all good and worthy. Enjoy!

Groovy Library's All-Time Favorite Super-Duper Christmas Gems, Vol. 3

I'll either end this series here or the next one. I have way too many favorites that'll stretch beyond the stratosphere. I'll probably stick to theme related mixes going forward. So anyway, what do we have here - lots of rockers and several 50s and 60s. Bert Kaempfert's "Holiday for Bells" is probably my most nostalgic Christmas shopping track. Chris Rea's "Driving Home for Christmas" has been a big fav for years and I'm pretty sure the first time I've heard it was sometime during the early 00s, over a dozen years since first released.

Chris & Peter Allen's "Ten Below" goes back to the early days of blogging. I no longer recall who posted it (and probably ripped at 128) but thank you regardless. It's still a favorite. Now, this may be sacrilegious, but I like Brenda Lee's "Papa Noël" just as much (and sometimes more!) as the "A" side - the big perennial seasonal smash "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree."

I think you'll enjoy and maybe a chuckle(?!?) out of Vincent D'Onofrio's (yes, the actor) "The Twelve Days of Christmas." Aly & AJ's "Jingle Bell Rock" is one of the best rockin' versions, along with Slade's "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town." Actually, this may be sacrilegious too, but I prefer the latter much more than their bigger holiday hit (Merry Xmas Everybody). And, I can't close the set without "Silent Night, Holy Night" this time by Percy Faith & His Orchestra. It's so beautiful. Anyway, all the tracks are good. Enjoy!

Snazzy Jazzy Christmas Jazz You've Never Heard! Vol. II

And once again, you've probably heard some of the tracks. Volume two begins with an awesome version of "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen" by the George Shearing Quintet. If you love Brubeck's "Take Five," you should enjoy it. Cyrus Chestnut's cover of "Linus and Lucy" is another worthy addition. If you love bebop, you'll love Herb Geller's "Sleigh Ride."

Rahsaan Roland Kirk's "We Free Kings" is a well known track amongst the jazz aficionados. If you like stride, then you'll probably enjoy Butch Thompson's "Deck the Halls." Brad Mehldau's "Christmas Time Is Here" is imo, the highlight from the set. I absolutely love this rendition of the Vince Guaraldi/Charlie Brown classic.

One of my all-time favorite Christmas carols is "Silent Night". I prefer the renditions to be more serene and subtly melancholic. Fabrizio Bosso Quartet's "Silent Night" is quite the opposite and it works. It's jazzy, funky, and a worthwhile addition to the mix. Anyway, all the tracks are good. Enjoy!

Snazzy Jazzy Christmas Jazz You've Never Heard!

I'm actually a fan (or sucker, lol) of "you've never heard" and similar wordings in comp titles. Sure, the intention is to goad you in, but I've found in the majority of my cases, just a couple of rare gems still earns that title. And so, here we are with 18 smooth, upbeat, jazzy tracks you've never heard... or may have heard...

All tracks are instrumental sans "Last Christmas" by Till Brönner, but only briefly. Of all the cover versions of Wham's big hit, this is one of the better ones. It toys on a bossa-nova rhythm, and it works.

The comp begins with Fourplay's "Angels We Have Heard on High" and probably the best jazz-funkiest rendition I've ever heard (give it a week, lol). Another big highlight is Dirk K's "Have Yourself a Merry Christmas." Who is Dirk K? I have no idea. I know a lot of bloggers fill you in with lots of info, but as usual, I'm pressed for time. I'm sure a simple search should do the trick. Meanwhile, check out those monster guitar licks. I'm pretty sure you'll be hearing more of his work in later editions.

Don't forget to get wow'd by Marco Marzola's "O Christmas Tree." Listen to those drum breaks. Oscar Peterson's "Christmas Waltz" slows things down for a bit, but his piano runs makes up for it and then some. And please note the third track (Don Patterson's "Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer") is a needle drop, and not that clean either. Well, it's passable but thought to let you know. I couldn't resist not adding it to the mix. Anyway, enjoy this set. And as usual, they're all good. Enjoy!

Groovy Library's All-Time Favorite Super-Duper Christmas Gems, Vol. 2

All sorts including a great power-pop track in "It's Love on Christmas Day" by Jim Babjak's Buzzed Meg, funky-jazz in Ramsey Lewis Trio's "Jingle Bells," and the 2022 mix of Vince Guaraldi Trio's "Skating," are a few of the awesome 20 tracks. A bit of everything! Baby Washington's pop-soul take on "White Christmas" is one of my favorite renditions. The same with the rare North American Air Defense Command's "Here Comes Santa Claus" from '64 or '74 (there are several discrepancies (online) for exact year of release). Megaphone's "The Perfect Gift (acoustic remix)" has been a big fav the last few years. Something for everyone. Enjoy!

Groovy Library's All-Time Favorite Super-Duper Christmas Gems, Vol. 1

I was going to revise the previous Christmas mixes but instead, decided to source the updated tracks into a series I've often longed for - my ultimate favs. I love Christmas music and I mean a lot of it! I could stretch this out into many, many volumes but I'll strict myself to the upmost uppermost jingles. And yet, I'm foretelling at least a few hundred tracks. That's right - it doesn't get any better than this. As I'm aiming (hopefully) for several volumes, all tracks are gold and spread throughout.

Notes on a few selections... 

* Swag's "Everyday Is Christmas" - Tom Petersson (Cheap Trick) on bass.

* Vince Guaraldi Trio's "Christmas Is Coming (2022 mix)" - Honestly, I can barely (if at all) hear a difference between the previous remasters. Nonetheless, it's still a great track!

* Vic Damone's "Winter Wonderland (Future Loop Foundation Remix)" - I absolutely love this remix. I'm also a big fan of Future Loop Foundation (featured in several Downtime comps).

* Wee B Toyz's "Linus and Lucy" - The best version of this VGT classic, bar none.

* Spiraling's "Do You Hear What I Hear?" - Do you love The Who's Baba O'Riley? Say no more.

* Percy Faith and His Orchestra's "Christmas Is" - A top 10. One of my biggest favs from the easy listening/lounge genre.

Anyway, Santa really hopes you all enjoy this first volume.

Intromania 3! Bass Drop...

And now the bass. Well known bands/artists but rarely heard (or played) tracks. My favorite is probably Alice Cooper's "Gutter Cat." I used the single remastered version and the difference from the album is that it fades out as one track, as opposed to the segue. Another big fav is Slade's "Heaven Knows." The band should have been bigger. I know they were big, but not big enough. Third choice, hmm, Warrant's "Hollywood" - an awesome hard rocker.

Lot of 70s once again. A few funky tracks, some progressive, and a few 60s tracks as well. A little more diverse this time out. They're all good. Enjoy!

Intromania 2! Drummer Drool...

Continuing with (mostly or rarely) rare gems and this time, the percussion. I did however include a well known AM radio classic that I still love - Pablo Cruise's "Whatcha Gonna Do?" It takes me back to an old girlfriend. I know it seems many of my stories have to do with old girlfriends, so I'll stop it there. But I still love the tune!

My intentions are to broaden the scope (genres) for each volume but once again, another mostly 70s rock/hard rock mix. There are a few progressive rock tracks, along with a melodic math tune to end the set. Also a couple of funky tracks (Kashmere Stage Band's "Kashmere" and O'Donel Levy's "You've Made Me So Very Happy"). Favs include previously mentioned Pablo Cruise; Galactic Cowboys' "Ants" and Brownsville Station's "Rock with the Music." They're all good. I wouldn't have it any other way. Enjoy!

Intromania! And Here Is The Guitar...

My apologies for the lengthy delay. It's been quite a busy month here at the household. Anyways, here we are with a new (unoriginal) series, "Intromania!" The idea goes waaaaay back to the 70s or early 80s, back when mixing cassettes and 8-tracks! I'm sure I stuck on the usual, more famous intro riffs but now 40 plus years later, the majority of tracks may not be as famous. Who knows - what's rare to one is customary to another. Regardless, it's all good.

The majority of the mixes (if I continue the series) should be just that - mixed with a lot of genres, a hodge-podge of sorts. This mix however, is mainly classic and hard rock (almost half the mix is 70s). I started this mix off purposely with Queen's "I Go Crazy," their imo best B-side, and one of their best rockers. A great kick-starter for the mix. "America's Veins" by my favorite Canadian band Max Webster, is another worthy listen. The Stampeders' "Wild Eyes" (another Canuck band) is one of their big fan favorites. I've always loved that intro riff. Thundermug's "Beard" (another Canuck band) is one of my favs off "Who's Running My World?" (the title track, also found on blog - "I Like It a Lot!"... More Canadian Music That Is). And yes, you've read that right - Bread. "Easy Love" is one of their rare rockers. Jimi's "Midnight" is one of his many posthumously tracks, but it's still good! All tracks are good. Enjoy!

That's What She Said! Volume Six, Sugar!

More from the ladies. This may be my favorite (yet) from the series. I'm going to assume many of the 18 tracks are not all that known, outside various compilations and the internet. My favorites you ask? I gotta go with Dorothy Berry's "Shindig City." Wow is the word to describe the tune. Lynne Randell's "That's a Hoe Down" is another fav. So is Rochelle Rosenthal & The Kickball Queen's "Lottery." If not mistaken, Jefferson Airplane's "Law Man" was my first favorite tune by the band. All 60s sans one track ("Law Man"). Enjoy!

Awesome Downtime 21: Retrospectively

This Saturday marks Remembrance Day. My grandfather fought in both world wars. He survived and lived well into his eighties. I still think about Grandpa a lot. He was always good to me, and love him dearly. He's the main inspiration behind this comp.

The mix - I wanted the music and/or track titles to tell stories for what was going on in a soldier's mind. It couldn't always have been dread and despair. I thought about their moments of hope and desire longing for home, even in midst of battles, those slivers of blissful thoughts of loved ones. And for all the carnage abroad, to witness the allure of woodlands, nature, people, etc. This mix is all beauty, reflecting those serene moments.

Most of the 20 tracks are chillhop. It also includes a few classical works. Don't be put off from classical music. I'd say that the five compositions are suitable for people who do not like classical music at all. The pieces are not lengthy or drawn out (one of the complaints by classical naysayers).

This mix is in a specific order (like most of my mixes). If the track title doesn't make sense, then it's clearly the music. For the curious, I originally had tracks 4 & 17 switched. Also at one time, #15 (Kainbeats' "Respect the Land, for It Nourishes Us") was set for #19 or the last track. In the end, I'm content with the final release. I hope you all enjoy.

Caught in a Landslide, No Escape from "FUNK-AL-I-TY!" Funky Rare Gems 1967-78

I have to keep the funk going. It just wouldn't be the same without a funk mix thrown in from time to time. As the rule, all tracks are above average to the awesome-est top. 16 funky tracks in all. My favs? Gosh, how about all of 'em. Okay, I'm leaning towards Roy Lee Johnson & The Villagers' "Midnight at Riley's" as my top fav. Or, could be Richard "Groove" Holmes' version of Stevie Wonder's "You've Got It Bad." No wait, how about Herb Johnson's "I'm So Glad" or Zbigniew Namysłowski's "Mango-Boogie." They're all good. Enjoy!

Popcorn Mania 11: Good Old Days

I was asked for more popcorn, so why not! I stopped at 10 volumes back in May, and half a year later, presenting... volume 11.

20 tracks in all, from '58 to '67. My favs you've asked? Well, the first track is great - Dean Parrish's "Bricks, Broken Bottles and Sticks." Ronnie Love's "Chills and Fever" is another goodie. And so is Darrell Banks' "Somebody (Somewhere Needs You)." I wonder if Steve Cropper and maybe a bandmate or three from Booker T. & The MG's were involved, for that intro is reminiscent of "Time Is Tight." As for my top fav, it's either aforementioned, or Erma Franklin's "I Don't Want No Mama's Boy." Let's call it a tie. Enjoy!