For Those About To Rock - A-Z of collecting Music

- G - Gamma Ray

2012-02-22T20:19:00.000Z

Back to Germany and ex Helloween vocalist Kai Hansen's band Gamma Ray. If you can find a copy then the best recommendation is Ultimate Collection - Incl. Posterthis excellent set packages together their first six albums - Powerplant, Somewhere Out In Space, Land of the Free, Insanity & Genius, Sigh No More and Heading For Tomorrow.

There are a few interesting cover versions including the Pet Shop Boys - It's A Sin (honest) Rainbow's - Long Live Rock 'n Roll, Judas Priest's - Victim of Changes and Exciter.

For a taste of Gamma Ray live try Skeletons in the Closet, Alive 95 and Hell Yeah!!! The Awesome Foursome: Live In Montreal (2CD)

- F - Lita Ford

2012-01-18T19:47:00.000Z

If you've been following any of this then the addition of Lita Ford won't be a surprise as Joan Jett has already had a mention through her Evil Stig side project.

Fellow ex Runaway Lita Ford was one of the founding members of the all girl American rock band. Debut solo Out for blood (1983) is a good start, Litafrom 1988 contains the classic Kiss Me Deadly and Close My Eyes Foever (a duet with Ozzy Osbourne). For Lita Live, pick up Greatest Hits-Live . Still going strong 2011 saw the release of WICKED WONDERLAND whilst there is nothing wrong with her most recent outing I'd start at the begining (in fact start with the Runaways).

- F - Faith No More, Frankie Goes To Hollywood

2012-01-16T22:39:00.002Z

We care a lot from second album Introduce Yourself and From Out of Nowhere on the follow up The Real Thingare the classic must have tracks from early Faith No More. Normally I'd always recommend picking up all of the first releases however to get a good feel for San Francisco's funk rockers I'd pick Who Cares a Lota greatest hits collection (just make sure you get the limited edition double disc version).

I'm not a fan of rap music and sort of hoped it would go away after Run DMC and possibly the Beastie Boys, unfortunately it still continues and in fact seems to be necessary to include in every pop track. I'll of course make the odd exception as I trawl through my collection and Faith No More can metal rap to their hearts content. I can also thank Faith No More for getting me as close to Lionel Richie as I ever want to be with the strangely wonderful cover of Easy.

There will always be novelty bands and manufactured bands and one hit wonders, occasionally the hype works and there's the odd classic trying to break out. Whilst not quite one hit wonders, Frankie Goes To Hollywood did only manage one classic album, Welcome to the Pleasure Dome: 25th Anniversary Deluxe Editionor for the full Frankie marketing genius also get Twelve Incheswhich as it says on the cover is the remix 12" versions across two discs. So how many times can you re-package one song? Well there are at least 20+ mixes of Relax readily available and master producer Trevor Horn claims there are over 200 mixes.... Ok it is a classic but how many versions do you really need? Did I ask that? ( I'm up to 12 versions of the Rocky Horror Show)

- F - Frankenstein Drag Queens From Planet 13

2012-01-09T21:22:00.000Z

Hands up if you remember Bobby (Borris) Picket and the Crypt Kickers - Monster Mash? If you liked that then you're half way to Wednesday 13s crazy world of horror rock. Formed in 1996 and including an ever changing lineup including Rat Bastard , Scabs, R.S. Saidso , Creepy, Syd, Ikky and It (so you've been warned).

This lot are for fans of Alice Cooper and early New York Dolls. The recommended purchase has got to be Little Box of Horrorsa wonderful five disc roundup of pretty much all their releases. Standout tracks? Die my bride, I love to say fuck, The witch is dead, Graverobbing USA, Love at first fright, Kill miss America. If some of these titles are familiar then you've already got the Murderdolls debut that re- recorded some of these. You'll probably then move onto Wedneday 13s solo albums.

Still not convinced? the Little Box also includes a bonus disc of unreleased material incuding excellent covers of Alice Coopers Hello hooray and the Sweets Fox on the run, Iggy Pops I wanna be your dog and even AC/DC aren't safe with a version of Shoot to thrill.

Not quite ready to indulge in the full horrors? Then put a toe in the water with 6 Years, 6 Feet Under The Influence and Night of the Living Drag Queens

As 'z' is a long way off, for the British version of this madness look out for (or dig up) the wonderful Zombina and the Skeletones.

- F - Fish

2012-01-02T16:42:00.000Z

Derek William Dick, better known as Fish. Really the best place to start is with the Marillion period prior to 1988 but I'm sure I'll get to that at some stage.

With some 9 studio albums, 20+ live albums and 4 compilations plus a variety of obscure releases there's a lot to choose from. No reason why we shouldn't start with the first solo outing from 1990 Vigil in Wilderness of Mirrorswhich includes many tracks still played live Internal Exile, Big Wedge and The Company. 1993's Songs from the Mirroris a covers album and excellent including fellow Scot Alex Harvey's Boston Tea Party, the Kinks Apeman, Argent's Hold Your Head Up, Genesis I Know What I like plus Bowie, Pink Floyd and Marc Bolan covers - its highly recommended.

Fish live is a bit more of a challenge as a lot of the discs have been released on Fish's own label Dick Bros and take a bit of searching but a good start is Return to Childhooda double release that includes Fish solo and many Marillion classics such as Kayleigh, Lavender and . Market Square Heroes. Other live albums to look out for Pigpen's Birthday, For Whom the Bells Toll, Toiling in the Reeperbahnand Tales from the Big Busbut be warned some of these won't come cheap.

If Fish is touring near you, don't miss him always a great show and a very friendly guy as well...

- F- Fashion

2011-12-29T13:21:00.002Z

Ok, so a break from the norm and here's one you can't buy and these days probably can't even play anymore??

Hailing from Birmingham, Fashion's essential album is the 1982 Fabrique. To my knowledge this has never been released on CD although a version appeared in 2004 which is about as close as you can get The Height Ofhowever not close enough.

The version you need is the cassette Special edition double play including the album plus all of the extended 12" mixes. Standout tracks Move On (plus Mutant Move) Love Shadow (plus Love Shadow Smokey Dialogue) and Dressed to Kill (Dressed to Kill Double Dub)

This was electronic pop/rock at its best. Maybe one day there will be a transfer to cd in all its glory, for now I'll make do with the cassette sampled version. If you find the cassette (remember them) I hope the player still works and doesn't chew up the tape.

- F - 4 Non Blondes, 5.6.7.8's

2011-12-04T22:59:00.001Z

A couple of bands that I'll list under 'F' maybe not correct but it's good enough for me and the bands deserve a mention.

Sadly just one studio album from Linda Perry and the 4 non Blondes Bigger, Better, Faster, Morefrom 1992 is an essential buy mainly for the classic What's Up the only other outing was the live Hello Mr President.

Then we come to the 5.6.7.8's who without a certain Quentin Tarantino hearing one of their albums playing in a shop in Tokyo and then including them in Kill Bill, the West may never have heard of them. There appear to be eight albums by this slightly strange band. So if you like all girl Japanese surfer music with attitude step forward the 5.6.7.8's. I've got two of their albums but once you've got Bomb The Rockscontaining the wonderfully silly and catchy Woo Hoo that's probably all you need. The compilation covers their singles from 1989 - 1996 forget the Beach Boys and go for the Japanese Beach Girls.

- E - Wreckless Eric

2011-11-22T19:58:00.001Z

Back to the punk pioneers and one of the original Stiff records artists, Wreckless Eric was label mates with Ian Dury, Elvis Costello and Nick Lowe.

I'd normally recommend the early albums; whilst the first two are excellent (Wreckless Eric and The Wonderful World of Wreckless Eric) and a must have for the dedicated collector, especially the various vinyl versions (coloured, picture discs and 10"). I would actually pick Big Smash the first disc being the third album and the second disc is a compilation pulled from the first two.

Full of catchy songs delivered in a similar style to Ian Dury and Elvis Costello. Wreckless Eric classics include Take the Cash, Hit and Miss Judy and Reconnez Cherie and the Final Taxi.

Wreckless Eric teamed up with his wife Amy Rigby in 2008 for the self titled Wreckless Eric And Amy Rigby. If you get the chance, don't miss him live for a highly enertaining show.

- E - Extreme

2011-11-13T19:55:00.001Z

1989's debut Extremepaved the way for the true classic Extreme II - Pornograffitti. Riff after riff and as many catchy tracks as you can ever need, subtitled 'A Funked up Fairy Tale' they are spot on. Decadence Dance kicks off with a dramatic metallic build and rips into a typically 80's hair metal singalong before launching into the alternative nursery rhymes of Lil Jack Horny. Get the Funk Out is the live favourite leading into the chart topping ballad More Than Words. Back to over the top screaming guitar and funk beat for Pornograffiti. It ('s A Monster) continues the quality of this classic. Mix equal doses of Aerosmith, Faith no More and Def Leppard and you're getting close to Extreme.

When Gary Cherone joined Queen on stage for the Freddie Mercury tribute they came close to the impossible of finding a worthy replacement - maybe one day....

- E - Evil Stig

2011-11-13T19:38:00.001Z

Ok, so the reason for including Evil Stig and their album Evil Stig (Rmst)is because I'm a music fanatic and collector which means finding the obscure and strange to add to the collection. I started way back in the late 70's when buying albums by the Runaways was a challenge to say the least.

I followed the Runaways after they split with solo outings from Lita Ford, Cherie (and Marie) Currie and of course Joan Jett. Which is where we arrive at Evil Stig formed after the murder of the Gits singer Mia Zapata by the surviving band members and Joan Jett to raise money for a Seattle self-defense and support group for women. There

Granted this will never set the world on fire and isn't a classic but is it an essential buy - of course it is thanks to the wonderful Joan Jett.

- E - Eddie and the Hot Rods - Edguy

2011-10-17T21:42:00.000+01:00

More pub rockers and probably wrongly slotted into the Punk/New Wave category when really they are a rockers.
Kicking off with 1976's Teenage Depressionfeaturing a cover of the Who's The kids are all right and title track Teenage Depression. Follow up Life on the Lineincludes their classic Do anything you wanna do.

For a (mostly live) best of compilation then The Best of Eddie & the Hot Rods The End Of The Beginningis a good start.

In contrast to the pub band rockers come the stadium rockers from Germany Edguy. Formed in 1992 Edguy is led by Tobias Sammet when he's not recording with his side project Avantasia.

My first introduction to Edguy was Rocket Ride: Special Editionfollowed by the EP Superheroeswhich is also available with a DVD. The latest release Age of the Joker (2 CD, Digipack, Limited Edition)is also a recommended buy. The live releases include the high street friendly Fucking With Fxxx (2CD/DVD)that's also available as a double disc version and Burning Down The Opera: Live (2CD).

- D - Ian Dury

2011-10-09T15:43:00.000+01:00

Starting out with pub rockers Kilburn and the Highroads Ian Dury was at his best when teaming up with the Blockheads. Despite releasing the classic New Boots and Panties [2CD Deluxe Edition]on Stiff Records in 1977 and slotting into the Punk/New Wave genre, the band where always far removed from the raw punk sound. Ian's lyrics also placed the band into a different league.

New Boots is as strong today as when it was released and remains an essential disc. The original release didn't include the punk anthem Sex and Drugs and Rock & Roll but later releases including the deluxe edition added it. There really isn't a weak track on the debut - Sweet Gene Vincent, Clever Trevor, Blockheads and Blackmail Man to name but a few.

Follow up Do It Yourself [2CD Deluxe Edition]from 1979 has also been released in the double disc deluxe format, the extras include the non album track singles Hit me with your rhythm stick and Reasons to be cheerful part 3 in addition to a set from the Stiff's live Stiffs tour.

Laughter [2CD Deluxe Edition]kicks off with the catchy Superman's Big Sister and Delusions of Grandeur whilst the bonus tracks include I Wanna be Straight and a collection of Blockheads instumental demos.

- D - Dropkick Murphys

2011-10-05T23:31:00.000+01:00

Let's Go Murphys, America's answer to the Pogues come across as a ramble rousing explosion on stage, off stage, one of the friendliest group of guys you could meet.

If the Murphys are in town go and see them live. Debut album Do Or Diefrom 1998 includes Boys on the Docks and Skinhead on the MBTA. Stand out tracks on 2001's Sing Loud Sing Proudare the Irish classic The Wild Rover and The Spicy McHaggis Jig. There are two excellent Murphy's compilations that are a perfect introduction to the band Singles Collection and Singles Collection Vol.2: 1998-2004 - B-Sides Covers Comps and Other Crap.

The Murphy's have been captured well live and it's hard to beat their Live on St. Patrick's Day from Boston, MAand the 2010 St Patrick's Day gigs Live on Lansdowne: Boston, Ma 12-17 Mar 2009/+DVD the bonus DVD shows all of the madness and an audience who know how to have a good time.

The Dropkick Murphys won't win any prizes for originality but for energy and enthusiasm they are hard to beat.

- D - Dream Theater

2011-10-03T23:11:00.002+01:00

Prolific is probably the best description for Dream Theater whose debut When Dream and Day Unitewas released in 1989. A total of twelve studio albums in some twenty years is probably not that impressive although none are weak and some positively epic including the latest A Dramatic Turn Of Events.

Supporting the studio albums are the live albums, studio demos and my own favourites the Bootleg Series covering full classic albums. MASTER OF PUPPETScovers the mighty Metallica, Iron Maiden's Number of the Beast:...followed. If Deep Purple are your band then pick up the Dream Theater version of Made in Japan. Pink Floyd's classic Dark side of the Moon : Official Bootleg coninued the series of classic covers.

If that wasn't enough there are the side projects by Mike Portnoy Amazing Journey covering the Who's Tommy, Hammer of the Gods tribute to Led Zeppelin and Yellow Matter Custard - the Beatles tribute.

Dream Theater tend to be classified as Prog Rockers - I would label them traditional Rockers.

- D - Dread Zeppelin

2011-10-03T22:26:00.000+01:00

If you thought Devo were eccentric, strange and odd (well you're right they are) then I give you Bob Marley and Elvis Presley mixed with Led Zeppelin aka Dread Zeppelin. Debut Un-Led-edkicks off with the mashup Black Dog and Hound Dog followed by Heartbreaker and Heartbreak Hotel. It doesn't let up, this shouldn't work but it does and continues with Whole Lotta Love and Moby Dick. If that isn't enough the madness continues with Dejah Voodoo - the Best of Dread Zeppelinwhere you also get crazy versions of Kashmir and Stairway to Heaven.

- D - Devo

2011-10-01T12:02:00.000+01:00

"Are we not men? We are Devo" The crazy world of the De-Evolution Band from Akron Ohio hit the UK in 1977 with the mightly strange Jocko Homo single. If the debut single wasn't odd enough then follow up Satisfaction still stands as one of the strangest Rolling Stones cover versions. Joining the Stiff records label Be Stiff was another signature tune for the band.

Appearing on stage in paper boiler suits ripped off to reveal knee protectors and the later flower pot hats Devo certainly made their mark. Debut album Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo/Devo Livenow including extra live tracks is the best place to start with Devo, or better still dive into the excellent compilation Pioneers Who Got Scalpedthere are too many highlights spread over these 50 tracks but classics include Whip it, Come back Jonee, Be Stiff, Freedom of Choice and Jocko Homo. Not content with their Stones cover, look out for the re-interpretation of Jimi Hendrix - Are you Experienced also included on the Pioneers disc.

Devo returned in 2010 with Something For Everybodyyou know you want to if you can't beat em join them "We're all Devo"

- D - Def Leppard

2011-09-23T10:20:00.003+01:00

"I suppose a Rock's out of the question?" formed in Sheffield in 1977, part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (including Iron Maiden, Saxon, Samson, Girschool and Motorhead) Def Lepppard have produced a number of essential albums over the years.

1983's Pyromania (Deluxe Edition)includes the hit Photograph, it was followed by Hysteriaprobably my first choice Leppard album for Rocket, Animal, Pour Some Sugar On Me and Armageddon It. The Deluxe edition now also adds b sides and live tracks; Alice Cooper's Elected plus a Rock of Ages medley (Not fade away, My generation, Radar love, Come together, Whole lotta love)

Adrenalize (Deluxe Edition)opens with the live favourite Let's Get Rocked. look out for the limited edition double disc version of Slangthe bonus disc is a live acoustic set from Singapore.

Yeah !is Def Leppard's cover versions album. You'll get reviews ranging from the worst album they ever recorded to five stars... I'll go for the five star review. The band start with a T-Rex cover, followed by David Essex and throw in Sweet, Mott the Hoople and Thin Lizzy. There are a number of different versions available of this cd with alternative tracks even a bonus version exclusive to Wal Mart Yeah! Bonus CD With Backstage Interviewswhich includes covers of Iggy Pop's Search & Destroy and David Bowie's Space Oddity.

- D - Dead Men Walking

2011-09-12T22:45:00.000+01:00

A supergroup /side project led by the Alarm's Mike Peters and a changing lineup including Pete Wylie (Wah), Glen Matlock (Sex Pistols), Kirk Brandon (Spear of Destiny), Billy Duffy (The Cult), Slim Jim Phantom (Stray Cats), Captain Sensible (The Damned) plus other guests - Mike Jones (The Clash), Lemmy (Motorhead), Derek Forbes (Simple Minds), Brian Setzer (Stray Cats) and Bruce Watson (Big Country).

Whilst primarily a live group, there are a number of excellent live sets available mostly sold via the bands website (seemingly offline at the moment), with a bit of digging these discs turn up on Ebay and Amazon.

Look out for Live (recorded at the Guildford Festival in 2001), Live at Leeds (2003) and Live at CBGB 's New York (2005).
The cds include cover versions from each band member including - Do you believe in the westworld, Spirit of '76, Never take me alive, Pretty vacant, Wildflower, Edie, Runaway boys, She sells sanctuary, Smash it up and Neat neat neat.

Well worth catching them if the band tour again.

- D - The Damned

2011-09-08T11:29:00.000+01:00

Credited with releasing the first UK Punk single New Rose and the first Punk album Damned Damned Damnednow released as a 30th anniversary special edition over three discs containing all of the classics - Neat Neat Neat, Stretcher Case Baby, Help and New Rose.

Despite many lineup changes the original base of Dave Vanian and Captain Sensible are still touring and well worth catching if you can.

1979's Machine Gun Etiquette [25th Anniversary Edition]also re-released in expanded form includes Smash it up (part 1 and part 2) plus bonus tracks Ballroom Blitz and White Rabbit (on some versions). The Black Albumagain re-released in deluxe format with an excellent second disc, contains The History of the World (part 1) an extended version of White Rabbit and many live tracks.

Anythingreleased in 1986 included single release Gigolo, the double disc version also includes their hit single Eloise that was never included on their original album releases.

Before leaving the Damned, it's also well worth checking out the one off Give Daddy the Knife, Cindycredited to Naz Nomad & the Nighmares the lineup includes Dave Vanian as Naz Nomad and original Damned drummer Rat Scabies as Nick Detroit

- D - Bruce Dickinson

2011-09-07T12:32:00.001+01:00

The first time I came across Bruce Dickinson was fronting Samson and credited as Bruce Bruce. Of course the airline pilot, fencing champion, author, and actor is best known for his two spells as vocalist for Iron Maiden. I'm sure I'll return to both Samson and Iron Maiden but for now let's look at Bruce Dickinson during his solo period from 1990 - 2005.

Releasing six albums plus a best of compilation and a triple live set there aren't really any weak albums. As ever start at the beginning with Tattooed Millionaire including a few interesting covers; All the young dudes, Sin City, Black Night and the excellent Riding with the Angels (from Samson). The Chemical Wedding is a darker album the title track re-appearing on the film of the same name also written by Bruce and featuring a cameo appearence from him as well.

Alive is a triple live set featuring a live studio disc, live at the Marquee and a re-release of the Scream for me Brazil cd. There are quite a few duplications across the three discs but still a very worthy addition to the collection. Tyranny Of Souls was the last solo album released by Bruce, let's hope he finds time between Iron Maiden and his other activities so record another some time. Bruce can also be found on the track Into the Black hole on Ayreone's album Universal Migrator 1&2

- C - Nick Cave

2011-08-30T15:25:00.000+01:00

Back to Australia and Nick Cave who started out fronting the Birthday Party; since 1984 he's been lead singer with the Bad Seeds plus his Grinderman project.

Possibly the most unlikely collaboration to date was with Kylie Minogue whose track Where the wild roses grow features on the essential purchase Murder Ballads that has just had the re-release treatment including a bonus dvd.

I doubt you will find a more miserable and blood thirsty collection of songs delivered with such a menacing growl that is so utterly addictive. I've collected a few of Nick Caves's albums over the years but none has required as many plays as these Ballads.

- C - Les Claypool

2011-08-29T12:36:00.000+01:00

Having listened to a little Primus, I have to admit that Les Claypool was a name I didn't recognise so it's a thanks to the record shop (remember them) that produced Live Frogs: Set 1 from under the counter. A live album and part one of a set by Colonel Les Claypool's Fearless Flying Frog Brigade. Glad to say this isn't anywhere near as daft as the title sounds and is a tight rock set recorded in 2000.

Starting with a King Crimson cover Thela Hun Ginjeet and ending with Pink Floyd's Shine On You Crazy Diamond. Which of course means you now need Live Frogs: Set 2 which is even better and even stranger as the band cover Pink Floyd's Animals album from start to finish.

I will be giving a few highly recommended mentions for covers of other peoples albums when I get to 'D' and the un-missable Dream Theater.

- C - Wayne/Jayne County, Julian Cope

2011-08-29T11:14:00.000+01:00

Wayne County and the Electric Chairs first came to the notice of the UK Rock press with the understated Blatently Offensive Ep and tasteful gold vinyl onslaught featuring F*** off, Night Time / Toilet Love, Mean Mutha F***in Man. I think you get the idea. The first two albums The Electric Chairs and Storm The Gates of Heaven may be a challenge to find. To sample Wayne's World I'll point you in the direction of Rock N Roll Cleopatra which has all the classics including the ep tracks and the all telling Man enough to be a Woman.

Which neatly leads us to Jayne County and the Electric Chairs, Rock'n'roll Resurrection and Let Your Backbone Slip. Backbone is an excellent compilation, uncovering live performances from the BBC vaults plus demos.

If you were compiling the list of rocks great eccentrics then up in the top ten will be the legendary Julian Cope. Finding initial fame with Liverpool's The Teardrop Explodes, Julian's solo debut was World Shut Your Mouth in 1984 but for the first slice of commercial success turn to 1987's Saint Julian that featured World Shut Your Mouth and hit single Trampolene. There have been a few deluxe issues including the double disc version of Peggy Suicide (Deluxe Edition) and expanded Jehovahkill.

Julian's later releases get slightly harder to track down, being released on independent labels but Dark Orgasm and You Gotta Problem with Me are worth a search for.

Once again, the problem with writing this blog uncovers more music that I'm missing in my collection and Mr Cope is no exception. There is also a list of side projects that I haven't even started on yet so this is an artist I may have to return to.

- C - The Cross, The Cult

2011-08-14T22:14:00.000+01:00

You would be forgiven for thinking Queen were Freddie Mercury, Brian May and the other two. However John Deacon fronted the Immortals (a side project to produce the soundtrack for the 1986 Biggles film) and Roger Taylor was lead singer for the excellent The Cross in addition to releasing his own solo albums.

Only producing three albums, good luck getting your hands on all three. the debut from 1986 Shove It stand out tracks are the title track Shove it and Heaven For Everyone (later covered by Queen). The best Cross album is Mad Bad & Dangerous to Knowhighlights Top of the World Ma and Breakdown. The third and final album Blue Rock was never released in the UK and remains either hard to find or just expensive. There is a cd containing Blue Rock and Mad, Bad & Dangerous to Know on the Royalty Music Label (despite the excellent packaging I suspect this is a pirated version).

Starting out in the early 1980's as Southern Death Cult, then Death Cult and finally The Cult releasing their debut Dreamtimein 1984. The follow up Love (Omnibus Edition) contains the essential She Sells Sanctuary. The excellent compilation Pure Cult: for Rockers Ravers Lovers & Sinners 1984-1995 is also a recommended release.

- C - The Clash

2011-08-12T09:31:00.000+01:00

The Clash were amongst the selected few punk bands that brought a knew excitement to music, hearing White Riot and Remote Control on 7" was the first time music felt edgy and dangerous, following prog rock, glam rock and disco. Here was a band (along with the Damned, Pistols, Stranglers) that felt new and different. Granted the edge has long since faded and returning to the early punk bands in the shadow of grunge, death metal etc they sound positively 'pop'.

But, don't miss the debut The Clash (UK Version) featuring Remote Control, White Riot and I Fought The Law. Most of the Clash releases are worth a listen but the other essential purchase is London Calling 30th Anniversary Edition, Vinyl Replica Packaging, CD/DVD a classic spread over two albums on release. For the collector also look out for The Clash - Singles [Box Set] 19 cd singles reproducing the original artwork from the 7" releases.

- C - Cheap Trick, Cheetah, Cinderella

2011-07-28T09:02:00.001+01:00

Formed in 1973 Cheap Trick really made their mark with the classic Cheap Trick at Budokan originally released as a limited edition yellow vinyl edition in 1978. It took some 15 years for the second part of this landmark set to appear on cd and now the whole lot is available as At Budokan: 30th Anniversary Collector's Edition [Box Set] 3 cd's containing the complete concert plus a dvd.

Other classic Cheap Trick discs to pick up are Dream Police and back to form Latest which was given away free at the time of release with Classic Rock Magazine.

Almost forgot about Cheetah, Cheetah Rock & Roll Women 1981 UK vinyl LP EPC85522 I'm not even sure if this Australian debut was ever released on CD but these girls delivered an ac/dc inspired album that definately needs a listen (if you can find it).

Moving back to the States and the Hair Metal league; comes Cinderella. Touching on the more melodic side of rock, Long Cold Winter+ includes Gypsy Rose and title track Long Cold Winter.

- C - Carter The Unstoppable Sex Machine

2011-07-10T12:18:00.000+01:00

Carter USM, I freely admit cross the line from Rock but they are fun, energetic and have so many catchy tunes. If Carter are a new (well old) name, their band name is probably as daft as the pair behind the moniker - Jim Bob and Fruitbat (I kid not).

Formed 1988 by Jim Morrison and guitarist Les Carter the pair inject energy and a sense of humour into an energetic punk/powerpop.

The debut 101 Damnations offers classics such as Twenty Four Minutes From Tulse Hill and Sheriff Fatman both still live favourites.1994's Worry Bomb is an essential purchase more for the limited edition Live in Zagreb concert cd capturing the madness live The Only Boy in New Cross, Granny Farming in the UK, and Sing Fat Lady Sing. There are a few compilations to choose from but the You Fat Bastardanthology two cd collection is a good start.

The two got back together in 2009 for shows at the O2 Brixton Academy and HMV Forum. Both shows were captured by Concert Live and released as two triple disc packages Carter USM- Live at Brixton Academy- 14.11.2009 and The Drum Machine Years Volume 2 (1992-1993) Live at London Forum 13.11.2009 that's if you can find them as both of these releases were limited to 1,000 copies each.

- C - Alice Cooper

2011-06-25T22:34:00.000+01:00

Forget Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie, Wasp, Slipknot, Lordi and all the pretenders, they all got what they do now from Alice. My first experence of Alice was Billion Dollar Babies, the original vinyl was packaged as a gatefold wallet with a Billion Dollar bank note, Alice still uses smaller versions of these during his live show. Stand out tracks on Billion Dollar...-2 CD- Billion Dollar Babies, Elected, Sick Things and I Love the Dead, all still part of the live show, a testament to this album. The version to buy is the remastered double with additional live and rare extras. If you buy no other Alice album you need this one. In fact this was one of the first albums to start me on the collecting addiction.

I don't really bother buying vinyl any more but my Alice Cooper originals are all prized possesions. The immortal School's Out came packaged in your own pop up school desk, early versions included the record inside a pair of paper knickers - it took a few years before I added an original copy to my collection. Another live favourite Schools Out is the essential track on this disc.

So far the rule of thumb has been buy the early releases and pass on the new ones, here we have an artist at last who is still producing excellent albums. 1994's Last Temptation included the infectious Lost in America. Original copies were packaged with the first part of Neil Gaiman's comic book of the concept album.

Also highly recommended Brutal Planet that spawned new live anthems Wicked Young Man, Pick Up the Bones and It's The Little Things.

There are few weak Alice Cooper albums. For a definitive compilation, go for Life & Crimes -4cd-tracing the career back to its routes.

The recorded Alice Cooper is an essential addition to any rock collection. If you've never seen the Alice Cooper live show then buy a ticket now. Alice is a master of the stage and where he's at his best.

- B - Pat Benatar

2011-06-19T22:46:00.000+01:00

Did I mention how much I like female rock vocalists? As with so many of the artists I've re-looked at so far, the best work is the early recordings and at the top of the list is the debut In the Heat of the Night featuring Heartbreaker, I Need A Lover, My Clone Sleeps Alone and No You Don't. I've not listened to this for so long and looks like it's another on the list to re-purchase on cd. Crimes of Passion is the second essential purchase, with stand out tracks Treat Me Right , Hit Me With Your Best Shot and Hell Is For Children.

I'll also pick Inamorata 8/15/80 mainly for the second disc, a live recording from 1980. It's just a shame she never produced such essential albums as the early ones.

- B - Björk

2011-06-19T22:15:00.000+01:00

I admit, Björk Guðmundsdóttir gave me a bit of a problem, she's not that easy to classify. Whilst not a rocker in the true sense, she's hardly a light weight pop star either. So she's in.

My collection includes most of her albums (I believe there is a rare Icelandic album recorded as a child that I've not seen). I started with her pre-solo Sugarcubes albums and have to admit I wouldn't have spotted her for what she has now become.

The final decision to include Bjork here are the songs Human Behaviour, Venus as a Boy, Army Of Me and It's Oh So Quiet. Which means the essential purchases are Debut and Post. Once hooked look out for the excellent and a little strange six disc set Family Tree. Don't overlook her Dvd collections, Björk's visuals are just as crazy as her music.

- B - Maggie Bell

2011-06-05T21:07:00.000+01:00

The legendary blues singer from Glasgow, originally vocalist with Stone the Crowes before releasing her solo's Queen of the Night and the classic Suicide Sal

The best way to experience Maggie though is live; The River Sessions is an excellent set recorded in Glasgow in 1993, Live at the Rainbow 1974 includes Coming on Strong, Wishing Well and Suicide Sal. Also look out for The Best Of Sound & Vision [CD+DVD]which also includes a live dvd of Maggie in Montreux in 1981.

Maggie Bell is another artist on the list of 'should be far more famous then they are'. I missed out on Stone the Crowes (which also featured the late Lee Harvey, brother of Alex) but discovered her following the recording of the theme tune to Hazell (1970s detective series). The music from her song No Mean City is the theme tune used for the Scottish detective series Taggart.

- B - Herman Brood

2011-05-30T11:49:00.000+01:00

Back to Holland for Herman Brood. The first I heard of Brood was the limited edition 1979 UK vinyl release titled Hermon Brood & His Wild Romance that came packaged with a live version of the album pressed on green vinyl. This release is a renamed version of his second album Shpritsz this record has been voted the fourth best Dutch album of all time in a 2008 poll.

If you're interested the top three were - Golden Earring – Moontan (1973), Bettie Serveert – Palomine (1992) Urban Dance Squad – Mental Floss For The Globe (1989) of which I'm guessing everyone knows Radar Love by Golden Earring, I've never heard of Bettie Serveert but after visiting her website, it sounds like she needs a bit more investigation. Urban Dance Squad were also unknown to me prior to a trip to Holland and picking up one of their albums.

So back to Herman Brood, the standout tracks are Saturday Night, R & Roll Junkie, and Dope Sucks, the first two are also on the excellent My Way: the Hits. Herman is sadly no longer with us after commiting suicide in 2001, jumping off the roof of the Hilton in Amsterdam.

- B - David Bowie

2011-05-29T15:12:00.000+01:00

So David Jones, aka David Bowie. Where do you start? there does seem to be an ongoing theme and why change, my first introduction to David Bowie was Space Oddity and it's as good a place as any to start; including Space Oddity and Memory of a Free Festival as stand out tracks. The Rise And Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars (30th Anniversary 2CD Edition) is an excellent remastered edition (although the Amazon prices are a little high, if you can't find this edition pick up a standard single disc version). There aren't any weak tracks, it's not easy to pick the stand out ones but Ziggy Stardust, Starman and Five Years are a good start.

Diamond Dogs: 30th Anniversary 2CD Edition again the 30th anniversay edition containing a bonus disc. Diamond Dogs and Rebel Rebel are the essential tracks. The definitive compilation is Sound & Vision I've got the original American RYKO edition that includes a bonus fourth gold disc including three audio and the Ashes to Ashes video. However I've never found a way to play the video track so if any one can let me know what type of player it used to work on let me know.

For reasons unknown, the British music press turned their back on Bowies Tin Machine period which I still think are excellent (I'll eventually give them an airing when I get to 'T').

I'm afraid the most recent Bowie albums have been a strange collection of Drum n Bass, experimental and slightly strange offerings, not necessarily a bad thing, and from an artist who has re-invented himself constantly, probably understandable. I just hope there is still a classic album still to be recorded.

- B - Budgie

2011-05-15T00:42:00.001+01:00

Welsh rockers Budgie started back in 1967, I'm guessing they are not on the radar of that many people but really they should be. My first introduction to them was 1974's In for the Kill from the opening In for the kill, to Crash Course in Brain Surgery and Zoom Club these guys really were the start of rock as we know it today.

I've still to pick up the early albums on CD, but the original LPs have pride of place in the collection all signed by the band when I caught them live in Wrexham a few years ago. Debut Budgie features the blistering Homicidal Suicidal and nomination for one of the daftest track titles Nude Disintegrating Parachutist Woman (it's not the winner - Pink Floyd and Gong are ahead there). But Budgie do get a special prize for album artwork and album titles - Squawk, impeckable and If I Were Brittania I'd Waive the Rules.

Addition

I'm now wondering if this blog was such a good idea.... Pulling out links from Amazon revealed good prices on the Budgie debut including bonus tracks (link above) a new release (well 2006 and their first for many years) You're All Living In Cuckooland and a copy of Impeckable - however the next available copy of the last disc is £25, sorry I just bought the last cheap copy, good hunting. So this blog is certainly costing me a small fortune, but I am a self confessed music collecting addict.

The plus side to this blog is an excuse to re-listen to discs long since put away on the shelf (In For the Kill is playing in the background as I write this) so if no one ever reads this I've still had the chance to listen to some excellent music - so thanks....

- B - Bubble, Buckcherry

2011-05-07T15:54:00.000+01:00

This is where collecting takes you, start with one band, in this case Vixen, whose Bass player Share Ross turns up on the Contraband CD and plays for Dogs D'Amour and then fronts Bubble. With me so far? I've always liked female rock vocals (not a surprise if you've been keeping up with this blog). Share is joined by husband Bam Ross from the Dogs D'Amour (and briefly The Wildhearts). The album I've found is Rock 'n' Roll Hell but apparently there are two more albums to be tracked down by the band.

Buckcherry the debut by Buckcherry is another Rolling Stones influenced rocker and non the worse for it. From the opener Lit Up (not a million miles away from Rocks Off) to Dirty Mind. Next look out for the neatly packaged triple disc pairing of 15/Black Butterfly containing the hugely catchy Crazy Bitch.

- B - Blue Oyster Cult

2011-05-02T12:11:00.000+01:00

There seems to be a theme emerging that the best place to start with most of the bands featured so far is at the start and unless you're hooked then pass on the later albums. Why mention this now? I'm going to start Blue Oyster Cult with Agents Of Fortune from 1976 that includes the monumental (Don't Fear) The Reaper, followed by 77's Spectres that includes the live favourite Godzilla and R.U. Ready 2 Rock.

When I started this Blog, there was that statement about Live albums (There is a general rule that the live record is the fans only or contractual recording and avoided at all costs). Well Blue Oyster Cult are another exception to this rule and have released some excellent live albums including On Your Feet Or on Your Knees and Extraterrestrial Live. First time I saw the band live was during the Mirrors tour at the Manchester Apollo, second time was at the Manchester Academy in 2006. Can't be easy for a band to go from club to stadium and back to club but for someone who hates stadium gigs, then please keep it up. I've even managed to catch Robert Plant playing in a very small club (although he can go straight back to any size venue he feels like).

The rest of the Blue Oyster Cult catalogue is well worth exploring by the way and if the band tour again, well worth checking them out.

- B - Blondie

2011-05-01T16:01:00.000+01:00

Punk, New Wave or Pop? Blondie have been slotted into all of these categories. From the first exposure to the Rip Her To Shreds 12" single back in 1977 I was hooked. The Classic album is Parallel Lines: Deluxe Collectors Edition this version includes a dvd with Debbie at her peak. I caught the Parallel Lines tour when the band added an extra show at the Hammersmith Odeon.

All of the early Blondie albums are excellent, there are the odd tracks that can be forgiven (The Attack of The Giant Ants) on the debut Blondie: Remastered but redeemed by X Offender and In The Flesh. For a pretty definitive hits collection try The Platinum Collection (the packaging on the Amazon version is different from my American version, but hopefully still includes; Out in The Streets, Platinum Blonde, The Thin Line and Puerto Rico demos). So the challenge for Blondie fans - try and find Rodney & The Brunettes featuring Madame X.

Not long to wait for the latest slice of Ms Harry and the band, the new album is out soon Panic of Girls (Fan Pack) and they are touring this summer.

- B - Black Crowes, Black Grape

2011-04-28T00:40:00.000+01:00

With a few nods towards the Rolling Stones, the Black Crowes debut Shake Your Money Maker is a solid blues/rock album including stand out track Jealous Again. Originally available as a bespoke cd where the buyer could choose the tracks and running order; Live At The Greek is also an essential purchase; a live collaboration with Jimmy Page sees the Crowes move from the Rolling Stones influence to Led Zeppelin.

Following the demise of the Happy Mondays, Shawn Ryder returned with Black Grape whose debut It's Great When You're Straight ... Yeah! features the essential Reverend Black Grape, In The Name of the Father and Kelly's Heroes.

This album opens up a whole new topic on vocal styles and singing voices. If I mention John Lydon, Alex Harvey and Lemmy as a start, their voices could be compared to gargling with gravel but the resulting noises have produced landmark statements in rock. I'm sure there will be many more examples as I plough through this guide. Suffice to say if you think Michael Buble has a lovely voice then you're reading the wrong blog (and no, he definately won't be featuring under any recommendations other than avoid at all costs.)

- B - Black Spiders, Black Robot, Black Stone Cherry, Black Rose

2011-04-25T10:30:00.001+01:00

What keeps the passion for music? Why keep collecting? Why, when the average number of cd purchases per year for music lovers is only 9 do I buy more than that per month? Simple answer is new bands arrive like the Black Spiders and their debut Sons Of The North. It's not massively original but in the shadow of AC/DC and Motorhead (both of whom the Spiders have covered) it's just a fun and energetic blast of noise. For a change, believe the hype they are excellent.

Staying Black and moving over to the USA for the debut Black Robot, by Black Robot. Released in 2010 there are no weak tracks on this album; standouts include Baddass and an excellent cover of Cocaine.

May as well keep Black and mention Black Stone Cherry and both their debut Black Stone Cherryand Folklore & Superstition as worthy additions to any rock collection.

Finally, staying with the Black theme I propose a somewhat obscure departure for Cher when she lead the excellent Black Rose for one recorded outing Black Rose. This seems to be available again on CD all be it with a dreadful cover, what was wrong with the original vinyl version? I am a fan of Cher from the hippy flower power through to the almost cabaret act of today but this slice of rock shows what she was capable of. I still remember the excitement of discovering the existence of the band from a Cher biography and then finding a copy many years ago at a record fair (ahh whatever happened to them)?

- B - Black Sabbath

2011-04-25T09:42:00.000+01:00

Black Sabbath have been pretty consistent with album quality over the years despite one or a few line up changes. Don't pass over the contributions from Dio, Gillan, Glen Hughes or Tony Martin on vocals but first start with the one and only Ozzy Osbourne.

The best place to start is at the beginning with Black Sabbath , Paranoid and Master Of Reality . Better still take the plunge and pick up the near perfect The Complete 1970s Replica CD Collection: 1970-1978 .

As an aside, for the purist collector, the only way to complete a Sabbath collection is with the original vinyl albums - but be warned they were pressed on the Vertigo label and the 'Spiral' version of the first album is valued at £150, versions of the second album fetch £200 and the third Paranoid album is priced around £100.

Another aside, there are plenty of battered copies of Sabbath albums that turn up every weekend at car boot sales, don't get too excited. To fetch these silly prices requires a mint (virtually unplayed) version first pressing and not the one played to death and sat on by the cat. While on this topic, still one of the most collected bands is the Beatles, their first pressings on vinyl can fetch over £3000 for a gold label version of Please Please Me and over £100 for each of the following albums. But, and it's a big but, the top prices are for mint, practically untouched factory fresh versions of which there aren't many. Please don't pay silly money at a car boot sale just because it's the Beatles (or Sabbath) and the sleeve is hanging together with tape, the inner sleeve is missing and the record looks like it's been played with a rusty nail - collector price £0 walk away.

- A - Avantasia (additional)

2011-04-11T21:16:00.000+01:00

Avantasia - The Flying Opera, Around The World In 20 Days (2xDVD + 2xCD) [2008] finally arrived and well worth the wait. Two CD's containing the live show and two DVD's; the live show and the Avantasia movie. Nicely packaged in two hard backed illustrated booklets. Not entirely original music but all the influences lead to an entertaining and explosive show.

- A - Anastacia, Avantasia

2011-04-02T17:07:00.000+01:00

As soon as I picked out Anouk for mention I rewound to the voice of Anastacia and couldn't resist giving a name check to the debut album Not That Kind and the best with hits I'm Outta Love and Not That Kind.

I'm not going to linger on the rest of the catalogue, nothing wrong with any of the later albums but they aren't quite as strong as this one.

Avantasia slip into the recommendations despite being a fairly recent addition to the collection. They get a mention as at the time of writing I'm still waiting for the latest masterpiece to arrive Avantasia - The Flying Opera, Around The World In 20 Days (2xDVD + 2xCD) [2008].

My only other introduction to the band is The Wicked Symphony & Angel Of Babylon available individually or as a box set. Not a million miles away from Ayreon in style and calibre of guests, Avantasia is vocalist Tobias Sammet of Edguy plus Kiss drummer Eric Singer (so that's a pretty good start) followed by appearences from Klaus Meine (Scorpions), Tim Owens (ex-Judas Priest) Michael Kiske (ex-Helloween) Bruce Kulick (ex-Kiss) and Bob Catley (Magnum) amongst others. Over The Top definitely, essential listening same again.

That pretty much rounds up the A's although I may come back to Anvil, Accept, Adverts, Almighty, Angel, Angelfish, Anthrax and Antiproduct.

- A - Tori Amos

2011-03-28T20:02:00.000+01:00

Yes, that's right, so what's Tori doing in a Rock Blog? Exhibit one Y Kant Tori Read one of those classic first albums that seem to disappear as the artist changes direction and creates a new first album ( Little Earthquakes ), which by the way is still a good album.

Y Kant sees Tori as a rocker, there's still a melodic undertone but I put this album forward as her best and she's never quite got there again (check out the Limited Edition cd single of Winter, containing stunning covers of Angie and Smells Like Teen Spirit). No apologies here, both of these recommendations will take a bit of searching for but that's what collecting is all about.

It only took me 20 years to track down a copy of the one and only album by Siam (Thank You and Goodbye).

Oh and those 'first albums' don't let anyone tell you Alanis Morissette's first album is Jagged Little Pill she has another two prior to that one that you'll have a challenge finding Alanis and Now Is The Time, both released five years before the 'debut' good luck.

- A - Ayreon

2011-03-22T23:54:00.002Z

Another 'band' discovered on a trip to Holland. Strictly speaking Ayreon is the work of Arjen Anthony Lucassen plus one of the largest list of guest artists you're ever likely to find. With elements of Prog Rock, Metal and Ballads the music is hard to categorise but the quality never falters.

The guest musicians are a who's who of rock royalty. In no particular order Universal Migrator: Vol.1 & 2 features Helloween's Andi Deris and Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson. Into the Electric Castle a space opera, brings in Fish and Thijs van Leer from Focus amongst others.

The Human Equation: +DVD features guest vocals from Heather Findlay (Mostly Autumn) and Dream Theater's James LaBrie. Epica's Simone Simons and Bob Catley from Magnum appear on 2008's double cd and dvd 01011001 Bonus DVD.

Even the bonus dvd's are worth a viewing, adding an insight into the creative process behind these epic releases.

- A - Apollo Four Forty, Attila

2011-03-12T22:37:00.002Z

I may be stretching the bounds of the definition Rock music here. Apollo Four Forty possibly fall into a dance or electro category. However, stay with me. My first evidence for the jury is they covered Blue Oyster Cults Don't Fear The Reaper (well). The second and final piece of evidence is Getting High on Your Own Supply which includes the Lost in Space (movie theme) and Stop the Rock, buy this album for those two tracks, then visit their other (less rocky) work.

Attila has to be one of the most unlikely bands. I give you hard rocking Billy Joel and Jon Small. This oddity from 1970 Attila (Digipak) is a bit like Emmerson Lake and Palmer but as a duo. I only picked this up after reading an article in Classic Rock magazine (and glad I did). Be warned, it's a bit odd.

Another rule for collecting Rock music - strange, odd and eccentric are all good. Start to worry when it turns into self indulgence, but I'm sure I'll uncover examples there that still work.

- A - Andrew W.K. , Angry Johnny & The Killbillies, Anouk

2011-03-09T19:49:00.001Z

Moving away from the more traditional Rock music and into rap and punk influences to arrive at Andrew W.K. and my recommendation of his debut I Get Wet, the stand out tracks are Party Hard and Party Til You Puke although the whole album is refreshing.

I've no idea what Johnny has to be so angry about as this slice of American Hillbilly Rock is highly entertaining if a little challenging to track down. My first dose was in the form of What's So Funny which led to a search for Live At the Brass Cat vol 1 and 2 and One Bad Day in 93. If you are tempted I would suggest a visit to the Killbillies website Get Angry where most of the back catalogue is still available. Any recommendations for further essential purchases are welcome as it looks like I've only scratched the surface.

Every time I travel overseas I try to find record shops and a helpful assistant to point me to that countries best Rock music. The initial reaction at a shop in Rotterdam was "all the Rock music we listen to is from the UK and America". As I aready had examples by Golden Earring and Herman Brood I knew this wasn't quite true.

Luckily I was right and I discovered one of Europe's best kept secrets - Anouk. This girl has a powerful voice and stage presence and better still sings mostly in English. If pressed I'd catalogue Anouk somewhere between Cher and Anastacia which really isn't a bad start.

My first introduction to Anouk was Is Alive followed by Urban Solitude, Who's Your Momma and The Lost Tracks (try to find the limited edition version with a bonus DVD). I am baffled why Anouk remains largely unknown in the UK.

-A- Airbourne, Alarm, Allman Brothers

2011-03-07T00:23:00.000Z

Either the ultimate AC/DC tribute band or another hard rocking Aussie four piece. Take your pick, but which ever you decide, both of Airbourne's albums Runnin Wild and No Guts, No Glory provide a very promising start for the band.

Hailing from possibly the least rocking home town of Rhyl in North Wales, Mike Peter's Alarm started as Punks and graduated to a fully fledged Rock band sharing the bill with Queen and U2 amongst others. I first saw them live at Wembley for Queen's 1986 tour. Debut Declaration (which seems to be a little tricky to get hold of) and the follow up Strength are both excellent. Must hear tracks - Knife Edge, Strength, Sixty Eight Guns and Blaze of Glory.

Mike is still touring and recording both as a solo artist, with the Alarm and the rather excellent Dead Men Walking - punk, rock, indie supergroup.

There are a host of bands that I will put my hands up and admit a mere passing knowledge about. The Allman Brothers is one such band, their classic Jessica (maybe better known these days as BBC's Top Gear theme tune can be found on Brothers And Sisters plus a number of compilation albums.

- A - Aerosmith

2011-03-05T21:32:00.001Z

Any band clocking up sales of over 150 million albums deserves a mention and when their name is Aerosmith they are also on the list for essential Rock collections. Starting with the self titled Aerosmith in 1973. For the definitive 70's era, pick up a copy of the excellent Pandora's Box .

Bootlegs (illegal recordings of concerts and sometimes studio sessions) have always been an issue with music fans. Probably only appealing to the true fan, are they stealing revenue from the artist? Maybe, but the same fan will already have a copy of the legitimate releases and wants more. Aerosmith came up with a novel solution, release their own Live! Bootleg and what better way to kick it of with than Back in the Saddle. Despite the convenience and lack of clicks and jumps, one thing the CD has failed to do is compete with some of the elaborate packaging of the vinyl original. Aerosmith's Live Bootleg was packaged to look and feel like a real bootleg recording.

I will come back to packaging at some stage as there have been many many exotic and extravagant ways to sell music and Rock has been no exception - the picture disc, shaped record, metal box, wooden box even a mascot's head.....

The band have had some ups and downs during the years. Owing one memorable comeback to none other than Run-D.M.C. covering Walk This Way.

"Hello Mr Tyler, going down?" - Love in an Elevator was one of the stand out tracks from 1989's Pump , also on the recommended list is 1993's Get a Grip featuring the hit Livin' on the edge and Eat the Rich.

If you've not yet sampled the Aerosmith experience, there are a few greatest hits packages to choose from, I'd go for O Yeah! Ultimate Hits which even includes their version of the theme from Spider Man.

- A - AC/DC

2011-03-03T20:09:00.002Z

Where to start? I'm often asked, with a slight mocking in the voice if I keep all of my records/Cds in alphabetical order. With no mocking in the voice the answer is "of course" otherwise it would take me a week to find a particular disc. With that in mind, let's start at A.

AC/DC

Another rule - loose your lead singer and that's the end of the band. Well that's another rule shot down in flames as Brian Johnson stepped into the seemingly impossible shoes of Bon Scott. As I look down the list of over 20 albums there's no weak disc to be seen. So how do you start collecting AC/DC? Buy anything they release is the simple answer. But if pressed, Highway To Hell is the essential Bon Scott era disc and then immediately invest in the definitive box set Bonfire which includes five discs of classic rock plus a remastered Back In Black the debut for Brian Johnson. To my shame I've only seen the band live once for the 2000 Stiff Upper Lip tour, all I can say is if they return to the UK touring get a ticket!

I'd normally steer clear of the greatest hits package however when AC/DC do it they do it in style. The Iron Man 2 (With DVD) (Collectors Edition) is just about perfect including Highway to Hell, If You Want Blood, Shoot To Thrill and TNT plus a bonus film tie in DVD, Marvel comic, poster and stickers all housed in a hard backed book - did I mention I'm a collector?

Of course the Iron Man soundtrack wasn't their first movie tie in. 1986 Who Made Who contained pounding tracks used in Stephen King's Maximum Overdrive. including the immortal For Those About To Rock (We Salute You) aah thought there was a reason I'd picked that title for this blog :-)

shazbot na-nu na-nu (one for the die hards)

The Beginning

2011-03-01T23:10:00.002Z

When did it all start? What were the first records to start the whole collecting bug? Confession; the first two singles (remember them- 7" plastic spinning around at 45rpm) were not really the most head banging tunes you could pick (then again, this was years before the headbangers started).

First, and earliest single I can remember was The Batman Theme by Neal Hefti in 1966. A catchy little ditty not over taxing on the lyrics front. The other single that I remember was the first introduction to the Beatles with She Loves You from 1963. This was quite a few years before I actually walked into a record shop and bought a disc.

The Beatles single must have made some impact, as jumping ahead a few years I can remember the first two albums I bought. The first, won't appear on the must buy shopping list as it's definately not the definitive fab four disc. So Album number one was 1969's The Yellow Submarine by the Beatles, and the great disappointment to discover side two (yes we had side one and side two in those days) was an instrumental.

I'm sure I'll come back to the Beatles at a later day, but for now, Revolver is generally heralded as the best Beatles album, I'd however probably pick Sgt Peppers. For the beginner (is there anyone out there who doesn't have a Beatles CD)? I'd recommend 1962-1966 (The Red Album) there's not a poor track on this essential compilation. Hooked? Then dive straight in with the pricey but must have re-mastered box sets available in Mono and Stereo. I struggled a bit for which to recommend and have chosen The Beatles In Mono . Why? Because it's the set I bought and it's hard to beat with every Mono album sounding as is was meant to be when originally recorded.

The second album I can remember buying is a total contrast from the Beatles and I don't really know how I chose it but I'm very glad I did. The second album was The Sensational Alex Harvey Band The Impossible Dream / Tomorrow Belongs To Me (well actually Tomorrow Belongs To Me) the fifth album by SAHB in 1975. The gravel voiced Alex Harvey was my first introduction to Rock music and as they say, I've never looked back - So thanks Alex....

The Rules

2011-02-28T20:56:00.002Z

What are the rules for collecting rock music? What's cool and what's not? This is a bit of a trick question as Rock music may never be cool again but that's good because you wouldn't be heading down the Rock road (you would probably be looking instead for whatever this week's rap, dance download is).

There is a general rule that the live record is the fans only or contractual recording and avoided at all costs. Fine but of course all rules are made to be broken and every collection needs a copy of AC/DC If You Want Blood, You've Got It and Kiss Alive II followed by (and now re-mastered and re-released) Thin Lizzy's Live And Dangerous

I'm sure I'll dig out a few more essential buys as I work through my collection. Armed with those three you can't go wrong. As an aside, on release, the Kiss Alive 11 disc was hailed as the best live recording of all time by then Sounds scribe Geoff Barton

Welcome

2011-02-28T00:51:00.002Z

Where do I start?. I've decided to look back at the music I've grown up with. In between I'll be sharing music that's happening now and if I stumble upon it, music that's on it's way. There will be a heavy bias towards Rock music but let's face it, this genre includes the Beatles, Stones, Sex Pistols (ok Punk Rock) Hawkwind (Acid Rock), Dream Theater (Prog Rock) get the idea?

So - For Those About to Rock.....