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!

Halloween Leftovers 2023

And here we are, the last Halloween mix of the season. I've kept a temporary folder for the last couple of months full of tunes for Halloween. The following mix are tracks left over from that folder. They are not sub-par tracks by no means, but just couldn't fit them in the previous mixes.

This comp is indeed a mixed bag. Todd Rollins & His Orchestra's "The Boogie Man" (from '34) has lyrics that may easily offend, especially the folks who stirred up a ruckus over the Christmas staple, Baby It's Cold Outside, and the Police's Every Breath You Take. There's also a couple of interesting 60s tracks in the Whatever's "The Valley of Death" and the Seeds' "Creepin' About." And if you really want to get spooked, put on the headphones and turn up Suicide's Frankie Teardrop. No matter where I've read music discussions on the world wide web, when the subject of requesting songs for Halloween or simply something disturbing, Frankie Teardrop is mentioned.

You all have a safe and happy Halloween!

Enjoy! 😎

Halloween Horrors of Modern Surf Rock VII: Skullaballoo

This will probably be the last surf rock Halloween mix for the year. I should have lots more for next season. So, what do we have here...

Another goodie! Once again, 20 tracks in all with 19 all instrumentals. The Hellbenders' "The Ghosts of Boot Hill" has vocals. It's more (sort of) rockin' country but still has that surfie guitar going for it. My favs you've asked? The Treble Spankers' "A Man Called Curse" and the Lava Rats' "A Phalanx of Terror" would be my top two. Insect Surfers' "Ghost Train," Los Plantronics' "Voodoo Astronaut," and the Surf Zombies' "Skullaballoo" would be my other favs. Enjoy!

Halloween Horrors of Modern Surf Rock VI

And here we are with a sixth edition. And to think, I have enough tracks for six more! Hmm, probably more, but I'm not sure how many mixes I'll get in before the end of the month. In the meantime... another 20 tracks of maddening modern surf rock. Favs you asked? Hmm, going to go with the Killer Bananazz's "Freaks of Nature," the Galaxy Trio's "Surf n' Destroy," and Evan Foster's "Werewolves International" as my top favs. They're all good. Enjoy!

Halloween Horrors of Modern Surf Rock V: Surfin' Headhunters!

Not only the fifth volume, but my favorite so far! And why is that? Amphibian Man's "Surfing with Sea Devil on the Board." Love it! And that's not all either - Surfaholics' "Toxic Beach" is another fav. If you love the genre, check out the band (they also appear on the first volume).

What else is in store? How about a mix of alt-country swingin' it with surf rock = the Atomics' "Zombie vs Ninja." It's another fav. And how about a mix of reggae & ska with surf rock = The Aqua Velvets' "Shrunken Head." It's also another fav. 20 tracks in all. They're all good. Enjoy!

This Ain't No Hodgey-Podgey Halloween!

And another Halloween mix, but what's with the title? One of my Halloweenie folders had tracks collecting computer dust waiting to be heard. It was going to be a thorough mix of several years and genres, hence the 'hodge-podge' title. I changed my mind and focused more on the modern tracks (most are 2000s with a few 90s), but kept the title and worded it accordingly (tongue in cheek).

18 tracks - a bit of pop-punk, rock, garage, etc, Also includes one score; a couple of ambient tracks; and one dark modern classical track by Bára Gísladóttir. Favorites? 999's "Everyday Is Like Halloween" would be right up there. The Woggles' "Dracula's Daughter" is another goodie. And can't forget the surf rockin' "The Flyin' Pumpkin" by the Blackball Bandits. Enjoy!

Halloween Haunts 9: Here Comes the Bogey Man!

Wanna hear a good spooky story? Earlier in the year, I didn't think I'd find the time to make any Halloween mixes. And here we are with the twelfth mix. A dozen!?!? And I still have more tracks to add! I've gone completely mad!!! End of spooky story.

Continuing with the Halloween Haunts series... more 50s & 60s with three from the 30s (Henry Hall & His Orchestra's "Hush, Hush, Hush, Here Comes the Bogey Man," Smiley Burnette's "Minnie the Moocher at the Morgue," and The 5 Jones Boys' "Mr. Ghost Goes to Town"), and a couple of film scores to start and end the mix. Enjoy!

Film Scores of Terrifying Horror

Frightening! Seriously, listening to this can be frightening. And no, I'm not selling any pitch. I do however recommend while listening with headphones is to NOT crank it up. Actually, if you play this blasting out your stereo speakers during Halloween, I don't think many trick or treaters will show up, lol.

20 score pieces from horror/thriller films. I also added a few recognizable scores to keep the interest. Here's a tip: Mix this with the other Halloween (mixes) for a well diversified listen. So, what's the scariest track(s)? Most of 'em! Enjoy!

Halloween Haunts 8: Hairy Scary!

Lots of oldies. Mostly 50s with a few 60s, 70s, and one 80s (Joel Vandroogenbroeck's "Ghost Town"). Also, four tracks from the 30s (Cab Calloway's "The Nightmare," Glen Gray's "The House Is Haunted," Prairie Ramblers' "Ghost in the Graveyard," and Paula Kelly's "Jeepers Creepers"). And a couple of film scores thrown in too.

My favorites? Definitely The Naturals' "The Mummy," for it's so similar to Bony Moronie. Russ Garcia's "Monsters of Jupiter" is another fav from the exotic/easy listening genre. The Del-Vikings' "The Voodoo Man" is another goodie, especially for the doo-wop lovers. And last but not least, Pino Donaggio's "Bucket of Blood." If you've seen the awesome film Carrie (the original), you should recognize it immediately. Enjoy!

Note: Regarding the series - most need to be revised (better rips, etc). I don't think I'll be able to finish them in time before the end of the month. If that's the case, I should have them ready for next year.

Halloween Horrors of Modern Surf Rock 4

I didn't plan to make this a series at all. I stuck with it because, er, well, I enjoy the tunes! As for this edition (volume 4) imo, is right up there with volume 2 (my favorite of the series). 20 tracks once again and way too many favs to mention. But, I still enjoy naming off a few of them. Let's see...

Man or Astro-Man?'s "King of the Monsters" is probably my top fav. The Balboas' "Green Death" would be high on the list too. The Cavernarios' "Laguna verde" (Green Lagoon) too! And I love the exotic/lounge groove in The Excelsiors' "Strange Planet." They're all good. Enjoy!

More Halloween with Modern Horror-Disco

 This Ain't No Discotheque! A Dozen Modern Horror-Disco Tracks

It appears to be a more diversified Halloween playlist this year. Something for everyone perhaps. This time out, horror-disco. And what is horror-disco exactly? Another style/genre within the hierarchy/branch of EDM > Electro-disco, Italo-disco, Neo-disco, etc. I'm not a big fan of horror-disco, so it took me a bit to find a suitable mix. Like all my comps, I'm very selective. It's easy to fill a comp out in no time, but I'm a stickler. With this mix, I preferred the steady beats along the lines of Motorik.

If to select a favorite, I suppose Bottin's "Slashdance" would be right up there. It has that Daft Punk going for it. Psychic Pollution's "Exorcisme" is another, with the Motorik style. A dozen tracks in all, mostly instrumentals. Maybe go nuts and mix it up with the other Halloween mixes. Enjoy!

Halloween Horrors of Modern Surf Rock 3

And continuing with modern surf rock number 3. If you love lots of reverb-y guitar, check out The Verbtones' "Flight of the Vampyre." My favorite amongst the 20 tracks is probably Monsters from the Surf's "Mysterioso." The Fathoms' "Tracking Bigfoot" is another goodie. And so is Voodoo Court's "Psycho Surfer." Oh, and The Pyronauts' "Boogieman" would be another. They're all good. Enjoy!

Halloween Horrors of Modern Surf Rock 2

20 more scorching Halloween-themed instrumental modern surf rockers. Actually, make that 19. The best track (Fiend Without a Face's "Green Slime") has vocals, but I haven't the slightest what they're singing other than the track title. I probably don't even want to know what they're saying, lol. Anyway, I like this comp more than the first one. I suppose you can't have all the best tracks in the first volume. I wonder if they'll be a third...

Anyway, my favorite track? Already mentioned and don't mind repeating - Fiend Without a Face's "Green Slime." It's a repeated listens type of track. It rocks! Other favs? The Invisible Surfers' "Godzilla Attacks" is another goodie and so is Huevos Rancheros' "Super Creep." And can't forget Big Lazy's "Just Plain Scared." Check 'em all out. And let me know what you think of "Green Slime." Enjoy!

Spooky Septober 4! Rhymes with 4 Is... More!

20 more rare Halloweenie tracks (well, rare to me). Okay, make it 19, as the first track is the main title theme to the film "Son of Dracula." Most of the tunes from the 60s, a few 50s, one from the early 70s (Neil Blunt & Jack Miffleton's "Halloween Song"), and an oldie from '27 (Truett & George's "Ghost Dance").

My favs you ask? Merle Kilgore's "The Bell Witch" would be one. The Moontrekkers' "The Bogey Man" is another. And The Black Albinos' "Ghost Party." Enjoy!

Halloween Horrors of Modern Surf Rock

20 frightening instrumental tracks (well, perhaps the titles) of modern surf rock. A long story short - I've always loved classic surf rock (The Surfaris, Dick Dale, The Shadows, etc), but wasn't all that keen for the modern neo-surf music. It wasn't until I heard the Surfaholics' '95 album, "Tiki-A-Go-Go." And that's all it took to be hooked.

My favs? Not surprisingly, Surfaholics' "Frankensurfer" is my top fav. The Moon-Rays' "Transylvanian Boo-Ga-Loo (Java's Pad)" would probably be my second fav. A toss-up for third, either the Silver Hawks' "Fear City" or Evil Waves' "Death Waltz." Enjoy!

Spooky Septober 3! And Yet Another Pre-Halloween Bonus

I'm on a roll, lol. And once again, most tracks are rare. I don't recall any of them during my younger years save Buchanan & Goodman's "Frankenstein of '59." Eighteen tracks (plus a couple of sound effects), and all from the 60s except a couple of 50s tracks (aforementioned plus The Blue Echoes' "It's Witchcraft"), one early 70s (The Cords' "Ghost Power"), and The Monsters' "Skeleton Stomp" from the 90s. Enjoy!

Spooky Septober 2! Another Pre-Halloween Bonus

A second one for Septober. And more rarities galore. Well, I say they're rare because I don't recall hearing any of 'em during Halloween. This set is a mix of oldies, film themes, and scores. Favs? I guess I'll go with Roy Clark's (yep, that Roy Clark from Hee Haw) "Spooky Movies," the Kac-Ties' "Mr. Were-Wolf," and Joe Johnson's "Gila Monster." As for the themes/scores, John Corigliano's "First Transformation (Primordial Regression)" from the film, Altered States, is edgy. I also included an incidental piece from an old horror film (Island of Terror). The film and sound effects used to scare the crap out of us during our younger years. Enjoy!

Spooky Septober! A Pre-Halloween Bonus

Hey folks, sorry for the long delay... and what did I come back with? A Halloween mix already?!? This is a special mix that needs an explanation, done in point form...

- The file contains separate tracks as usual, plus the main all-in-one mix. The main mix is the first track. It contains all the bells & whistles (aka incidental cues, scores, narratives, silliness, etc), unlike the separate tracks. I've done this to appease the folks who prefer separate tracks as opposed to my intention. You can call this mix the best of both worlds 😀

- The last track/sound effect "The Most Terrifying Sound You've Ever Heard" (it's about 10 minutes long) is on the complete mix only, and not a separate track (so, I guess you don't get the complete best of both worlds after all 😀). Keep in mind that you may want to turn the volume down during playback. It's not like your typical haunted house theme but more like a constant white noise of whistles, screaming, etc, that increases in volume. I tell ya, if you want to scare the crap out of someone, it may work.

- All music from 50s & 60s, except one theme from the 70s. I may have added a partial theme/score from the 80s but don't recall. You'll have to listen to the complete mix to find out.

- The word Septober is not original, lol. I got it from a line in an awesome Paul Westerberg tune called 33rd of July. 

- Favorite tracks? All of 'em. Seriously, they need to be all good, imo of course. But, I'll name three - Alma Cogan's velvety "Mystery Street," Evans Carroll & The Tempos' "The Monster," and Don Hinson & The Rigamorticians' "Home in Castle East." Enjoy!

NOTE: The correct cat# is SPM-H10. The cover in file has the wrong cat#. You can delete it, and just copy the cover (with correct #) from this post.

The Steamy Library 2: Sensuous

Many years back when blogs thrived, one particular blog (I no longer recall the name, and probably long gone by now) made a series of sexy lounge tracks. I must have really loved the idea because years later, I finally got around in doing my own series.

The first one was back in May of this year (you can find it here) and finally got around to a second. 16 tracks of sensual desire, or however direction it takes you. My favorite is Armando Trovaioli's instrumental version of "Searching for Something." Otto Sieben's "Soft Flute 1" is another fav. Unfortunately, it's a short track. Another big favorite is Syd Dale's "Dream Fantasy." Seriously, they're all good. Enjoy!

That's What She Said! Number Five Ladies!

It's the ladies again, and they sure know how to rock. Dani Sheridan's "Songs of Love" is my favorite. A big, big favorite! Lulu's "I'll Come Running Over" is another fav. Colette & The Bandits' "A Ladies' Man" is another worthy track. They are all good! 20 tracks in all, from '56 to '69. Enjoy!

Rockin' Rollin' Doo-Wop 2: Ooh Bop Sha Boo!

If one rockin' & rollin' doo-wop'n ain't enough, how about another round! 18 tracks in all, from 1954 to '64. My favs? The Cliques' "I'm in Love with a Girl" is probably my biggest fav in the mix. The Blue Chips' "Come Back" and The Dikes' "Light Me Up" are a couple more big favs. They're all good of course. Enjoy!

Soul Groovin' - Hip Burnin' Grooves [1965-75]

18 funky groovin' soul tracks. Several rare and plenty of unsung gems. My favs? Act I's "Goodbye Love (We're Through)," Marie "Queenie" Lyons' "Your Key Don't Fit It Anymore," and Archie Bell & The Drells' "Dancing to Your Music." Oh, can't forget Gunga Din's "Crabcakes." They're all good. Enjoy!

Awesome Downtime 20: Beginnings

It's been 4 months since the last "Downtime" mix. I think it's time for another. And here we are with the 20th edition. I'm sure I've mentioned this in previous editions, but I'm a stickler for the downtime mixes. I hope I'm still doing the series justice.

18 tracks, and no filler! Future Loop Foundation's "Another English Summer" is a big, BIG fav and you guessed it, my favorite in the mix. Joe Walsh's "Giant Bohemoth" is another big fav (I love Joe's instrumentals). Softy's "Bloom" and Towerz's "Loom" are another couple of big favs. As usual, they're all good. Enjoy!

Yacht On Some More! Best of 70s & 80s Smooth Sailing

Shortly after posting my break post, I started to squeeze in some extra time to work on a few mixes and before you know it, I'm back. Yeah I know, that wasn't much of a break. And here we are with the second yacht rock mix... I was going to just do that one mix of yacht rock but forgot to add my favorite Peter Frampton track - St. Thomas (Don't You Know How I Feel). I love that tune!

Like the previous mix, I based the majority of tracks from listening to streams. I'm not worried if some of the tracks don't quite fall into the genre (and I'm sure the streaming stations feel likewise) for it's all good. Enough of chatter...

I like this mix better than the first. As mentioned earlier, Frampton's St. Thomas is gold. Big, big fav. Other favs = Trooper's Santa Maria, and Stretch's Forget the Past. Also check out Chris Rainbow's tribute to Brian Wilson (Beach Boys), "Dear Brian." Enjoy!

Yacht On! Best of 70s & 80s Smooth Sailing

I was listening to various stations on the firestick and happened upon a few yacht-themed streams. While I was expecting the usual Christopher Cross and Michael McDonalds, instead they played a much broader scope of tracks. And those tracks would normally be tagged as soft rock but hey, if it fits, why not! And sensibly, the two genres can be interchangeable. I'm sure the purists stand an argument but to me, it's all about the music. And with that, I'd thought to make a mix or three of yacht tracks that are not the usual norm. 16 of 'em. My favs? The Ozark Mountain Daredevils' You Know Like I Know, Atlanta Rhythm Section's Alien, and Lava's 2.12 - they're all good. Enjoy!

That's What She Said! Vol. 4 (Those Rockin' Poppin' Ladies Are At It Again)

Finally, a new mix! I've been really busy this summer that time constraints have kept my (music) hobbies to a bare minimum. So anyway, I wanted to get off a new mix to keep the blog alive and well. And here we are, 20 tracks (I'd say the majority are rare) of poppin' rockin' ladies, from 1960's Jamie Horton's Robot Man to 69's Helen Shapiro's Take Me for a While. My top 3 favs you ask? You can't go wrong with Jean Thomas' Too Young to Be Yours, Billie Davis' Hands Off, and Gloria Scott & The Tonettes' I Taught Him. They're all good. I know I say that a lot, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Enjoy!

Rock on Canada Trois! Between the Moons

All right you hard rockin' fans, another unsung collection. 18 tracks in all, over 70 minutes! And lots of rarities. Yes, rarities. Bands like Eighty Four (Ontario), Slow (Vancouver), Fictions (Ontario), Hammersmith (Alberta), and After All (British Columbia). I know what you're saying... Who?!? And of course, we can't have a Canadian rock mix without my favorite (Canadian) band - Max Webster, with 4 tracks! Two are big, big favs (In Context of the Moon, and Coming Off the Moon, hence the sub-title of mix "Between the Moons," (tracks) placed first and last respectively). Other notables (although they all are) are Pat Travers' Stand Up, Kim Mitchell's (the actual singer/songwriter/guitarist for Max Webster) Big Best Summer, and Coney Hatch's No Sleep Tonight. Enjoy!

A Daily Excursion at The Bachelor Pad 3: Walk and Talk

I'm probably repeating myself here but when I imagine a scenario with library/lounge music, it's normally an apartment get-together with a few suave James Bond type of dudes chatting it up with beauteous dudettes. I keep that image while listening through scores of library/lounge/exotica music to fit the scene. And, I only use music that I enjoy - it needs to be good, and no filler.

(Note: In future issues, I may add some "big" favorites used in other non-series mixes. Meanwhile, you may want to check them out (both have been revised) = 16 Groovin' & Rockin' Instro Library/Lounge Music from the '70s  and  16 More Groovin' & Rockin' Instro Library/Lounge Music from the '70s)

Walk and Talk, the third segment commences with Geoffrey Alderson's On Our Way and ends with Morricone's Secondo intermezzino pop. 20 tracks in all in less than an hour. My favs? All of 'em but to name just a few for noteworthy purposes - Klaus Weiss' Surge Action 2 with its similar intro-motif to Led Zep's Babe I'm Gonna Leave You. Franco Micalizzi's Vodka per due is another of notice. Just a nice overall feel-good tune. Giuliano Sorgini's With a Finger is that tune you'd hear in the background during all the chitter-chattering. And sad really because no one notices. Well, I do! And last but not least, the lengthiest track in the mix, Mario Molino's For Me. It's also the same deal as the latter. Anyway, they're all good. Enjoy!

Rockin' Heavy, Hard & Steady 5: Surprise! Unsung 70s Hard Rock Scorchers Again

 And they keep hammering 'em out! This set begins with a track from my all-time favorite Canadian band - Max Webster. The track "Hangover" was also (or should say probably) the first track I've heard from the Max Machine. Max Webster used to tour with fellow mates, Rush. My older brother went to see one of their shows not knowing MW but only Rush. He said after MW played, he couldn't care less to stay for Rush. He was so moved that he purchased their debut, brought it home, and the rest is history.

Anyway, lots of rare tracks including Wicked Lady's epic, "War Cloud." Also, check out Pat Travers' awesome cover of "Statesboro Blues." 18 tracks this time. Enjoy!

That's What She Said! Those Poppin' Rockin' Ladies Again (Vol. 3)

 Lots more goodies, 20 of 'em. All 60s sans one 50s track. My favs? The first track - Janice Peters' This Little Girl's Gone Rockin'. Oh yeah, awesome track. Pat Harris & The Blackjacks' Hippy, Hippy Shake is another, and my favorite rendition. Marie Applebee's Down by the Sea (End of Summer) another goodie. They're all good. Enjoy!

Rare Gems from the Gravel Pit 4: Hodgepodge 60s (Esses & Tees)

NOTE: Revised Edition!

A simple theme with this one. My favs? The American Breed's "Train on a One-Track Mind", 49th Parallel's "She Says," Small Faces' with "Shake," and The Cortinas' "Too Much in Love." I really love the latter. They're all good. Enjoy!

Rockin' Rollin' Doo-Wop: Ooo-Wee!

 When I first heard "Zoom" by The Starlighters years ago, I thought it was one of the most hard-rockin' doo-wop tunes ever released. Could there be more out there? Let's see...

20 tracks in all. From 1954 to '64. I relied heavily on a couple of sources for all the tracks. If you think doo-wop doesn't fall under the style or the genre, take it up with them and not me, lol. Anyway... my favs? Hmm, maybe The Five Crowns' "Popcorn Willie" or The Champions' "The Same Old Story." Enjoy!

Note: I really wanted to add Zoom, but cannot find a good file online with a clean rip. The one I have is 167kbps (?!? - now that's old, ripped from some long-gone program) but the source is rough. You can still hear the track on youtube here -> "Zoom" by The Starlighters  (btw, I still think Zoom is the heaviest doo-wop track)

Popcorn Mania 10: Do the Wobble!

 And here we are - ten volumes later. I never planned this at all. Well, that's the way it goes just like that saying - "Man who walks through airport turnstile sideways going to Bangkok" ... BA-DUM-TSS!

20 rare ditties from '56 to '65. My favs are Jane Baker's Boom-De-De-Boom, Little Jerry Williams' Let's Do the Wobble, and Lillian Vines' I Dreamed About My Baby Last Night. imo, all these tracks (not the artists) are rare. I know I've heard Dangerous Lips before, but not by The Drivers (their version on this set). Enjoy!

Shake 'em Up Sally and Let Your Bangs Hang Down! More Rakin' & Scrapin' Oldies!

The first one was back in March 2022 (Shake 'em Up Sally and Let Your Bangs Hang Down! 20 Rakin' & Scrapin' Oldies!). I couldn't pass up on extending the mix title, so here we are with part two. 18 awesome & rockin' oldies from 1954 to '67. I don't have a particular fav but if put on the spot, I'll go with Willie Egan's brilliant "I Don't Know Where She Went," the Deep River Boys' "Rock-a-Beatin' Boogie," and Leon Peels' "Cottonhead Joe." Plenty of jump-blues (Wynonie Harris, my favorite artist of the genre), rock & roll, and rhythm & blues. Enjoy!