The Reel Trax import record label announced the release of 'Elvis '68 Unleashed' on classic red and transparent red colored vinyl.
Vinyl collectors are well aware that two RPMs are widely available now: 33 ⅓ and 45 revolutions per minute. 45 RPM records have better sound quality than 33 ⅓ RPM records do. This is because they offer more space for deeper grooves for the turntable's needle to read so it can express the more complex and nuanced sound patterns with a better listening experience as a result.
Reel Trax is bringing back the magic with a brandnew 2-LP release. Carefully curated and remastered in great-sounding Stereo in a highly valued professional studio in Europe, the legendary Stand Up shows are coming to new life. The sensational looking double album complete with liner notes from those who were there in 1968 (and written especially for this release!) is a real eye-catcher and informative as well. This album captures the raw and unrestrained energy of Elvis Presley like never before. It transports you directly to the iconic standup shows of The King, recorded in June 1968.
After a period of absence from the stage, Elvis made a triumphant return to the spotlight with a short series of unforgettable concerts before a close audience. Meant to be shown in parts in the then upcoming TV-Special simply called 'ELVIS' it was a sensational appearance in its own. In general it was a time when he rediscovered his musical roots while filming the special and he delivered his art with pure passion.
With an impressive collection of timeless classics, breathtaking vocal performances, and spontaneous interactions with the audience, 'Elvis Unleashed '68' reveals the true essence of a legendary artist at the peak of his power.
Side 1: Heartbreak Hotel / Hound Dog / All Shook Up / Can’t Help Falling In Love / Jailhouse Rock / Don’t Be Cruel / Blue Suede Shoes.
Side 2: Love Me Tender / Trouble Baby, What you Want Me To Do / If I Can Dream.
LP 2: Recorded June 29, 1968 (8:00 PM) at Burbank Studios, CA
Side 3: Heartbreak Hotel / Hound Dog / All Shook Up / Can’t Help Falling In Love / Jailhouse Rock / Don’t Be Cruel / Blue Suede Shoes.
Side 4: Love Me Tender Trouble / Guitar Man Trouble / Guitar Man / If I Can Dream.
Randy Starr: Presley Style
The Bear Family record label announced the release of the CD 'Randy Starr: Presley Style - Lost Elvis Songwriter Demos Vol. 1'.
Publicity stated: After the great success of P.J.'s CD album Proby with demo recordings, Bear Family Records releases further, lavishly produced demos recorded exclusively for Elvis.
The illustrated and extensive booklet contains detailed liner notes by British Elvis expert and collector Trevor Simpson, based on interviews he recently conducted with Randy Starr.
Randy Starr, born in 1930, successfully completed his dental training at Columbia College in 1954. At the same time, he wrote songs that were recorded by Jackie Wilson, Connie Francis, the Kingston Trio and Kay Starr, among others. In 1957 he appeared for the first time on the American Bandstand with his hit After School, and in 1959 he entered the Billboard charts with The Enchanted Sea as the singer of the Islanders, reaching position 15.
However, his greatest success as a songwriter came with a total of 12 compositions personally selected by Elvis Presley, which became part of the soundtracks of Elvis films. In order to give Elvis an accurate picture of the songs, Randy Starr produced highly professional recordings between 1963 and 1968 in top studios in New York with hand-picked musicians and often himself as the singer.
On two CD albums, Bear Family released around 70 of the recordings, 12 of which Elvis took over. This first of two CDs contains 35 songs, including six that can be heard in the Elvis version in feature films: Kissin' Cousins ('Kissin' Cousins'), The Yellow Rose Of Texas ('Viva Las Vegas'), Look Out, Broadway ('Frankie And Johnny'), Datin' ('Paradise, Hawaiian Style'), Adam And Evil ('Spinout'), and The Girl I Never Loved ('Clambake'). Only one of these demo recordings has been released before, 34 of these songs are now appearing on a recording medium for the first time! In order to achieve the high sound quality that is typical of Bear Family Records, we commissioned an experienced sound engineer to master the original sources. The result sounds excellent!
Of the 35 demo songs on this album, Randy Starr sang 14, 13 times the singer is called Kenny Karen, on the remaining recordings either Malcom Dodds or Jerry Keller, the same Jerry Keller who sang in 1959 with the legendary Here Comes Summer, sings Made it to number 14 on the Billboard charts.
The British Elvis collector and expert Trevor Simpson maintained close contact with Randy Starr for years. We owe him the extremely competent liner notes, which are based on many interviews conducted with Randy Starr. Unfortunately, Trevor passed away in January 2024 and was unable to see the release of these two albums. We dedicate the Randy Starr CDs to this extraordinary person and expert.
Tracks: Kissin Cousins (Malcolm Dodds) - Viva Las Vegas (Malcolm Dodds) - The Yellow Rose Of Texas (Randy Starr) - Lady Luck Is A Gypsy (Malcolm Dodds) - Look Out, Broadway (Malcolm Dodds) - Kissing In The Rain (Kenny Karen) - Three Wishes (Randy Starr) - Bring On The Dancing Girls (Randy Starr) - A Thousand And One Night (Malcolm Dodds) - Polynesian Paradise (Jerry Keller) - Datin' (Jerry Keller) - Adam And Evil (Kenny Karen) - Never Say Forever (Kenny Karen) - Easy Come, Easy Go (Kenny Karen) - Wheel Of Love (Kenny Karen) - I'll Take Love (Randy Starr) - Love On The Rocks (Kenny Karen) - Clambake (Randy Starr) - he Girl I Never Loved (Kenny Karen) - Let Her Go (Randy Starr) - You Can Do It (Randy Starr) - Handle With Care (Randy Starr) - Better And Better (Randy Starr) - From Riches To Rags (Kenny Karen) - Little Girl (Kenny Karen) - Big Bright, Beautiful World (Randy Starr) - Head For The Hills (Randy Starr) - Strange Vibrations (Randy Starr) - Come Hell, Come Sundown (Kenny Karen) - Charro! (Randy Starr) - The Chautauqua (Kenny Karen) - We Can See Him Everywhere (Kenny Karen & Mimi Roman) - Don't Stand Under The Mistletoe (Randy Starr) - My Christmas Won't Be Merry This Year (Kenny Karen and Mimi Roman) - Let's Have A Christmas Party (Kenny Karen and Mimi Roman).
The CD is available from the >>> Bear Family webshop.
The King's Harmony
Life Narratives Inc. published the 127-page biography 'The King's Harmony: Unveiling the Untold Rhythms of Elvis Presley Paperback'.
Discover the secrets behind the legendary Elvis Presley's music in a way you've never experienced before. This isn't just a book; it's a journey into the heart and soul of the King of Rock 'n' Roll himself.m
Immerse yourself in the captivating narrative that unveils the hidden stories behind Elvis's iconic tunes, from the early bluesy beats to the electrifying stage performances that shook the world. "The King's Harmony" transcends the conventional biographies, offering you an insider's perspective on the man behind the music.
Step back in time and witness the magic of Elvis Presley's rise to stardom, as each page takes you on a melodic adventure. You'll find yourself tapping your feet and humming along as the narrative weaves through the creation of timeless classics like "Hound Dog," "Heartbreak Hotel," and "Jailhouse Rock."
What sets "The King's Harmony" apart is its exclusive access to rare interviews, anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories, providing an intimate portrait of the man who revolutionized the music industry. Revel in the highs and lows of Elvis's life, and gain a deeper understanding of the creative genius that shaped a generation.
Don't miss your chance to own this definitive guide to the unparalleled legacy of Elvis Presley. "The King's Harmony" is not just a book; it's a symphony of emotions, a celebration of music, and a testament to the enduring impact of an extraordinary artist.
Act now and be part of history. Let "The King's Harmony" be the soundtrack to your journey through the life and music of the one and only Elvis Presley. This is your invitation to experience the magic – order your copy today and let the harmonies of the King resonate in your soul!
(Source: Real Trax / Bear Family)