Audiophile: Vinyl, March 2023
Revolver
Apple 4559952 (four 180g vinyl LPs/1x7in EP)
This is the best revamped Beatles album so far, beyond Giles Martin's skills improving with each new set, thanks to technology developed for Peter Jackson's epic Get Back which enables engineers to isolate individual instruments on each track. Purists will always prefer the originals, but this simply pops out of the speakers with depth, clarity and detail to inspire a non-stop binge. Mono and stereo LPs, two of alternative takes and demos, and a 7in EP with mono and stereo remasters of 'Rain' and 'Paperback Writer'. The 5CD box [Apple 4559941] is identical, with the same stupendous 100p hardback book. My wallet fears Apple will use the new tech as an excuse to remix the other boxes all over again. KK
Gypsy
Gypsy
Sundazed LP5612 (two LPs; coloured vinyl)
Another 'Great Lost Album' unearthed by the sleuths at Sundazed, this psychedelic gem from 1970 had the unusual distinction of being a debut that was a double album, usually a luxury saved for established acts. Although this US outfit (not to be confused with the British group of the same name nor the Danish band, The Gypsies) delivered four albums, they remain inexplicably obscure – a shame as their first LP exhibited eclecticism and skilful songwriting, with stylistic nods to contemporaries such as Buffalo Springfield and the burgeoning jazz-rock scene. They're best known for the two-part opener, 'Gypsy Queen', but the rest is a cut above the genre's norms. KK
Marillion
Holidays In Eden Deluxe Edition
Parlophone 0190296609190 (four 180g vinyl LPs)
While probably not regarded as Marillion's best, their sixth LP, from 1991, is certainly among their most accessible – still prog rock to the max, but almost hummable. Oddly enough, it's been reissued at least three times I know of, but with bonus material differing from the extras here. This latest limited edition ups the count to four 180g vinyl LPs: the remixed original, plus three albums to contain the whole of an unreleased live concert recorded in Hammersmith in Sept '91 from their Holidays In Eden Tour. Accompanied by a 32-page booklet with rare photos and memorabilia, it also comes in a 3CD plus Blu-ray set, but with different extras. KK
Nancy Sinatra & Lee Hazlewood
Nancy & Lee
Light In The Attic LITA198-1
Enough time – a half century-plus – has passed to admit that Frank's daughter deserves to be regarded for more than charges of nepotism and 'These Boots Are Made For Walkin''. She had a great voice, it was a perfect counter to Hazlewood's baritone, and – yes, because she was Ol' Blue Eyes' nipper – access to the best session musicians and engineers. This superb reissue also reveals great taste, Hazlewood's songs joined by seven cover versions including two not on the original LP. Overall, the feel is country, while their takes of 'You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'', 'Summer Wine' and The Kinks' 'Tired of Waiting For You' are bliss. KK