The Modern Lovers

Album: The Modern Lovers
Format: LP
Label/Info: 2004 red vinyl Get Back reissue (Get 90066). Originally released 1976 as Beserkley LP BZ-0050

Compiled from 1973 sessions with John Cale. This essential record should have been included earlier in this blog, especially since I already mentioned The Stooges' first record, its proto-protopunk sister also produced by Cale. In many ways this album holds up more. Certainly the mood is lighter and more playful. (If Iggy represented leather, drugs, and debauchery, then Jonathan Richman was more comfy sweaters, health food, and holding hands -- although "She Cracked" has a certain snarky snarl.) Subsequent CD reissues contain unnecessary bonus tracks that take away from the freshness and immediacy of the original 9-song playlist.

Sam Cooke and the Soul Stirrers

Album: Peace in the Valley
Format: LP
Label/Info: Get Back 180 Gram Reissue (8063).

Sam Cooke joined the Soul Stirrers in 1951, replacing lead singer R. H. Harris after the Stirrers signed with Specialty records. Guided by the former teen wonder who would go on to be the superstar of early R&B, the Soul Stirrers are captured here at their best with 14 tunes of pure a cappella gospel feeling.

Al Green

Album: Gets Next To You
Format: LP
Label/Info: Get Back Reissue

Al Green

Album: Call Me
Format: LP
Label/Info: Hi 1973 (original); also 2005 Get Back Vinyl Reissue