Appearing In The Motel Lounge

The Scott Thomson Trio At The Jolly Roger

2012-02-11T22:00:00.000-08:00

It's Never Too Late To Do Your Thing

The Scott Thompson Trio At The Jolly Rodger

Art Records ALP-74

The Jolly Rodger was a Ft. Lauderdale club.

Another artist appearing in The Motel Lounge, Ronnie Prophet, also gigged at The Jolly Rodger.

Live At The Anchor Inn

2012-02-11T17:42:00.000-08:00

Aquarius

Glenn And Bill "Live" At The Anchor Inn

G&B Records
Coronet Records

From the back cover: "Variety Unlimited" is the way Glenn and Bill describe their act, and with good reason. Each one sings well by himself and together their voices blend so well, at times they sound like one.

The Northland Anchor Inn Motel was located on Morse Road in Columbus, Ohio.

2 Sides Of Tommy Johnson

2012-02-04T09:01:00.000-08:00

Funny Valentine

Time Is Tight

2 Sides Of Tommy Johnson
Track Records - Silver Spring, MD
Tear Records
QCA - Queen City Album - Cincinnati, Ohio - 10749

From the back cover: The exotic setting of a Polynesian paradise - with the exquisite flavor of authentic Polynesian dishes - is the background for the unique artistry of Tommy Johnson. Tommy Johnson and The Ma-Kiki Club are synonymous with one another. One just doesn't think of one without the other. Tommy came to the Ma-Kiki at the Holiday Inn in Huntington, W. Va., for a 30 day engagement in May of 1969. He's still playing there and his fans and the owners hope that it's a permanent arrangement.

Big Bamboo - Hiltonaires

2012-01-18T22:39:00.000-08:00

Wings Of A Dove

Big Bamboo
Hiltonaires
Hilary Record Corp. - New York, N.Y.
ILP 1041

Fromt the back cover: The Jamaica Hilton Hotel lives up to its reputation as one of the finest hotels in the Hilton tradition. The Hilton presents the finest in Island calypso music with their swinging calypso group known as the "Hiltonaires". The excitement of calypso or mento or ska danced on Jamaica's sun-bleached sands to music played by this very talented group is a must for every visitor to Jamaica's glamourous Northcoast Resort area.

Simple sound, raw but yet unique and effective. The Hiltonaires play guitar, banjo, congo drums and "two purely local Jamaican inventions – the rhumba box and the bamboo sax".

Spanish And American Balads - Juan Claudio

2012-01-18T21:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome To My World (Juan)

It's Not Unusual and Help Yourself (Claudio)

Spanish And American Balads
Juan / Claudio
Macchu Records

From the back cover: Juan - Showman, guitarist, singer, that loves his audiences and takes songs from different countries for his repertoire so he can please everyone that he plays for and now in this album. Claudio - A contemporary composer and arranger, singer, guitarist, singing his compositions hits with his arrangements and now in this album.

Little Bit Of Everything - Pennsylvania Polka Kats

2012-01-18T05:01:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I Talk In My Sleep

Little Bit Of Everything
Pennsylvania Polka Kats
Lemans Records - Belle Mead, N.J.
LPC-74 (1980)

I think this is the first Polka album to appear in The Motel Lounge. You won't find Blue Grass albums featured here either... But that's because grass groups don't have the same fab fashion sense. Don't get me wrong... These guys are styling.

On a side note... My lap dog, Mister Burns loves Polka. Something about the music that sets him to dancing on his hind legs. Weird... but fun.

Amanda

2012-01-17T07:50:00.000-08:00

Day Tripper

Amanda
Dunwich Records S668
1967

This isn't a completely obscure recording and Amanda Ambrose apparently made at least three records although it is hard to tell from online searches. She may also have made several appearances on the Johnny Carson Show in the early 70s.

Still, this is a lounge recording even though it was pressed and distributed by a label. Record live at Mother Blues, Chicago.

Shade Of Blue - Enjoyment In Entertainment

2012-01-06T13:05:00.000-08:00

Brings Tears

I Wish You Love/Who Can I Turn To

Shade Of Blue - Enjoyment In Entertainment
Shirley Rogers & Tony Albert
Danceland Records - Hays, Kansas
DLS-501

From the back cover: The Tony Albert Show is one of the Top show groups that appears in my night club. I predict they will soon be the top show group in the country. – Gayle Leister, Owner and Manager, Red Pussycat. Salina, Kansas

All By Myself - Stu Self

2012-01-04T15:27:00.000-08:00

My Way

Bridge Over Trouble Water

All By Myself
Stu Self
Cyberteknics Studio, Dayton, Ohio
552N9

Apparently Stu gigged in the lounge of the Quality Inn, Covington, KY. The building still exists, but is now owned by Radisson. The building is a terrific piece of space age architecture. A rotating restaurant can be found on the top floor. Self would have likely played in a lounge that was located in the extension off the tower, which can be seen lower right. The building was topped, when owned by Quality, by a fantastic space age "Sputnik" sign. The period look of the building was trashed when Radisson replaced the sign. I always wanted to bitch about that and now, thanks to Stu Self who played down the street from my home, I've done so.

Carmen D'Oro - I Aim To Please

2012-01-04T05:26:00.000-08:00

Something

Carmen D'Oro & Los Dorados
I Aim To Please (Deseo Complacer)
Qui Records

From the back cover: Carmen credits her first success to the Rhumba King himself, Xavier Cugat, who picked her from 150 girls. Carmen worked and learned show business with Cugat, and leaving the band she was starred in one of the many shows produced by Monte Proser. It was Monte who changed her name to CARNEN D'ORO (gold Carmen).

In recent years CARMEN has played such lounges as The Sands, The Stardust and The Sahara in Las Vegas, as well as Harvey's and Cal Neva at Lake Tahoe and many times back in all the major hotels in Puerto Rico.

Even as this album is being pressed, CARMEN and her group are entertaining our troops in Viet Nam for the fourth time.

Presenting Diana Dawn

2012-01-04T04:48:00.000-08:00

Fever

Presenting Diana Dawn
1967

From the back cover: You know her name... (Diana Dawn... say it a couple of time)... You've seen her astonishingly good looks... (you may look at her picture a while longer, if you like)... And if you're interested in Fresh New Talent for 1967... Diana Dawn is the Girl You've Been Waiting To Hear. And Now You Can! ...on a free 12 inch LP album, recorded live at the Capitol Cabana Motor Hotel in Columbia, South Carolina. This is not a "studio engineered" session, but an actual unaltered recording of one of of Diana's shows. You'll hear Diana Dawn as realistically and refreshingly as if you were stageside at the Capitol Cabana.

Computerized Synthesized Organized - Rudy Rosa

2012-01-04T03:58:00.000-08:00

Michelle

Spiders And Snakes

You Only Live Twice

Computerized Synthesized Organized
Rudy Rosa With His Custom X66 Hammon
R&R Productions, Vienna, Virginia and Mangate, Florida
411219

From the back cover: Both musically and electronically oriented, Rudy Rosa began his career at the age of six, giving him to date, over 24 years in the music field. Rudy designs, builds and services his equipment, and also recorded the master of this album, using his wife Sue, as chief engineer.

It is also interesting to note that Rudy cannot read a note of music, and never had a lesson on the organ. His father taught him to play the accordion by ear. Also the organ complex you see and hear on this album is one of a kind, and the sounds you hear can only be described in the same way. "Totally Unique." The Organ console basically is a Hammond X-66 used in companionship with an Arp synthesizer, along with a mass of other knobs and dials that gives it the appearance of a 747 cockpit. The only difference in this case, there is only one pilot, and also it will never get off the ground. However musically, it has risen high in the music world, and this can be witnessed by the crowds that flock to see Rudy perform at Manny's Surf And Turf Supper Club located in Fairfax, Virginia on the outskirts of the nations capitol, Washington, D.C.

Dorothy Rowen Sings Your Favorites

2011-12-26T15:48:00.000-08:00

Wipe Out

Twilight Time

Dorothy Rowen Sings Your Favorites
Rite Record Productions - Cincinnati, Ohio
#1943 (20499 - 20500) - 1967

From the back cover: Since this is my first album, I think it is only fitting to tell you a little about myself, and why I would presume to make an album at this stage of my life. After all, I have been married 23 years to a wonderful man and have raised two children. The reason is simple – I sincerely love to entertain. If just one tune out of all that we have recorded for this album provokes a beautiful memory or somehow makes you feel a little bit happier, then all the work that has gone into making it is well worthwhile.

Born and raised in a small town in Missouri, I learned as a child the complete joy of entertaining through the constant encouragement of my parents. The credit for any success I have had – may have – belongs entirely to them.

The album was recorded "live" at the Springs Motel, Located in Lexington, Kentucky. I began working there over five years ago as a solo performer – that is, playing the piano and singing all the old favorites, and encouraging anyone who felt like it to sing along with me. After a very successful three years – after extensive remodeling of the room – we had need of a dance group. Thus, the "Neptunes" were born – the group you will hear in the background. It consists of Bob Eckler on guitar, Wayne Calbish on drums, and yours truly at the Hammond Organ.

Bob – Lexington's answer to Chet Akins – is by far one of the best guitarists you'll hear anywhere. He can play sweet or low-down and in the next instant, "pick it purty, Leon" as you'll hear, particularly in "Bird Of Paradise" and "Good Old Mountain Dew." He also sings with me on these numbers, and our rendition of "Does Your Heart Beat For Me" is almost a night occurrence. Wayne is also a very versatile and invaluable man to have around in that he, too, sings, but more than that, he has the ability to lending just the right touch on the drums to a small group such as ours. You'll hear him really "turn on" in "Wipe Out" – a rock tune that is bound to set you toes tapping.

Springs Motel

Country Classics - Jim Williams

2011-12-23T04:17:00.000-08:00

Make The World Go Away

Country Classics
Jim Williams
Country Classics 8001

An Album Of Love With Kay Pine At The Lowrey Organ

2011-12-19T16:32:00.000-08:00

Brazil

An Album Of Love With Kay Pine At The Lowrey Organ
Musical Studios - Columbus Ohio
Dunn Sound Productions 993677

From the back cover: Kay's dream became a reality in 1974 when Kay Pine became a Lowery Staff organist.

Alive And Well At Pizza And Pipes - Tom Hazleton

2011-12-16T15:13:00.000-08:00

Theme From 2001

Alive And Well At Pizza And Pipes
Tom Hazleton At The Mighty Wurlitzer
Capn's Pizza Gallery - Redwood City, California

The Middle Of It All

2011-12-13T13:02:00.000-08:00

Chokin' Kind

Lord You Gave Me A Mountain

The Middle Of It All
Featuring Working Day Woman
Naroh 40919

Inscription on the jacket: Mr. Carey: To one of the men I've known that I really never forgot. I'd wished I'd have grasped everything you tried to teach me. – Best wishes Denny Roe.

Also signed: Best wishes Mr. Cary, Donna Roe

You Asked For It - Lord Radio And The Bimshire Boys

2011-12-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

Love Story

You Asked For It
Lord Radio And The Bimshire Boys
R.E.C. Studios - Barbados
RADERC 001

My copy was autographed/dated 1974.

Tramping - Dora Hall

2011-12-07T13:55:00.000-08:00

Carolina In My Mind

Tramping
Dora Hall
Cozy Records - PL 1010

This is the third record I've found by the fabulous Dora Hall. Dora Hall is the "Queen" of vanity entertainment. Hall was married to Leo Hulseman, the founder of the immensely successful Solo Cup Company. Apparently Leo was happy to finance dozens of record releases for Dora, all of which were given away free of charge with packages of plastic cups and plates during the 1960's.

Check out a sample from Dora Hall's Great Hits! and Dora Hall Sings Pop Country.

Without A Paddle - The Back Room Gang

2011-12-03T16:04:00.000-08:00

I Want A Big Bread And Egg Man

Without A Paddle
The Back Room Gang
Queen City Recording (QCA) - Cincinnati, Ohio
205012

From the liner notes: The BRG was organized December 12, 1970 in Traverse City and has been playing gigs ever since. Locals and out of towners have been following the band at Dill's Olde Towne Saloon for the last seven (7 – count 'em) years.

Making Their Own Kind Of Music - Pamala Fant And Wes Shannon

2011-12-01T06:03:00.000-08:00

Goin' Out Of My Head/Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You

Making Their Own Kind Of Music
Pamala Fant And Wes Shannon
Studio D - Florida

Cruise ship lounge act appearing on the Carnival TSS Festivale.

Christine Plays It Hot

2011-11-12T20:24:00.000-08:00

Java

Christine Plays It Hot
Certi-Craft Company - Studio City, California
Ecore

Hey! Here's an artist with one name. Nowhere on the cover is Christine's full name mentioned.

From the back cover: The sophisticated audience of the Hickory House in New York City kept her there for as long as she would consent to stay and clamored for more.

Much of her professional career has been spent in private clubs in Birmingham, Alabama.

The Downtown Club, The Astronaut Restaurant, The Relay House – beautiful private club overlooking the bright lights of the city – are just a few fortunate enough to have headlined Christine – and her "hot" keyboard.

She is in constant demand for conventions and is usually booked solid. Convention calls have taken her to Texas, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri, Georgia, Illinois, Mississippi or just about any state you can mention.

...The Astronaut Restaurant!!! I wonder what that place looked like?

The Queen Requests Command Performance - Pete Eveland

2011-11-12T11:43:00.000-08:00

Put Your Hand In The Hand Of The Man From Galilee

The Queen Requests Command Performance
Pete Eveland
Film Associates, Inc. - Dayton, Ohio

QR-PE-120

From the back cover: A native of Wilmington, Ohio, Pete has been playing the organ professionally since age eleven. He has appeared on numerous radio and television shows. Personal engagements have included Organist for the Cincinnati Bengals at Riverfront Stadium and guest artist for Hallmark Productions of Hollywood, California. He is the youngest member and only organist with the "Louisiana Jazz Club All Stars."

Caribbean 1978 - The Entertainers

2011-11-11T20:40:00.000-08:00

Theme From Rocky

Theme From S.W.A.T.

Caribbean 1978
The Entertainers
AEA 1199

From the back cover: Brilliant sound and exciting dancing highlight one of the country's best stage shows with special appearances of the ENTERTAINERS'. "Darth Vadar", "Chewbacca", "ROCKY", "Ludwig Von Beethoven" and other. For four years, these young people from Southern California have captivated audiences from New York to Hawaii. Now in 1978 the ENTERTAINERS will feature Dixieland, rock, nostalgia, musical themes from TV and movies, and comedy, in New Orleans, Miami and while cruising the Caribbean.

Where Do I Begin To Tell A Story - Billy ThunderKloud And The Chieftones

2011-11-11T19:26:00.000-08:00

My Way

Love Story

Billy ThunderKloud And The Chieftones
Where Do I Begin To Tell A Story
Superior Records
S 2010

I found this autographed copy of this unusual album in a Northern Kentucky thrift store. The album is a bit "lounge" as you can tell from the cover of "My Way". But the production values are a pretty high for private press.

Lounge or not, ThunderKloud did it his way! There are a number of gems on this LP.

Enjoy!

Top Of The Flame - The James Cohen Trio

2011-11-11T18:23:00.000-08:00

Tangerine

Top Of The Flame
The James Cohen Trio
Orbit Records - Curtis, Detroit
6970

From the back cover: In the fall of 1969 Jim, Frank and Mac took their places in the Oriental atmosphere of the Top of the Flame, atop the modern Michigan Consolidated Gas Company Building in downtown Detroit, sharing top billing with one of the city's best views of the riverfront and neighboring Canada.

At first glance, the boys might seem out of place among the pagoda motif, kimona-clad waitresses, the Chinese and Siamese antiques. But their subtle jazz stylings add just the right touch to match the tasty East-meets-West menu.

Helen And Billy Scott - Songs You've Requested

2011-11-10T19:57:00.000-08:00

The Ego Of My Mind

Helen And Billy Scott
Songs You've Requested
Chance " The Cincinnati Sound"
Queen City Album - Cincinnati, Ohio
#0647

Today I feature a rare find (for me here in The Motel Lounge). I don't find many private press local country albums. The Scotts, made appearances on Hayride (TV series) and Jamboree USA (radio show).

It also appears (from example that I could find online) like the Scotts recorded at least two more albums, both on Jewel (another local Cincinnati, Ohio record company).

Cesari Orchestra

2011-11-07T03:59:00.000-08:00

Oceanic

Cesari Orchestra
DCR 8173

Remember The Good Times - The Millionaires

2011-10-29T19:14:00.000-07:00

Without You

Remember The Good Times
The Millionaires

The Velvets Vol. III

2011-10-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

By The Time I Get To Phoenix

The Velvets Vol. III
Vel Records V-1003

Click this link to enjoy a few samples from the first Velvets album.

Sorry once again for the audio quality... the copy I found has been abused.

Ron McKee And The Western Skies

2011-10-27T15:35:00.000-07:00

Angel

Ron McKee And The Western Skies
A+R Record Manufacturing Corporation

From the back cover: Ron McKee was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma in 1952. His family moved to Clarendon, Texas in the same year. He started to school in Stinnett, Texas and began his music in the 4th grade orchestra. He moved back to Clarenden to attend the Jr. College there. He also attended West Texas State at Canyon, Texas. How he is well traveled and an experience musician and ready to take his place among the best.

Velvet Country - The Velvets

2011-10-25T15:24:00.000-07:00

Got A Little Bit Of Heaven

Just Because

Velvet Country
The Velvets
Vel Records - San Antonio, Texas
V 1002

What is fun about this album is that the group apparently gave everyone in the group take a shot at singing a song. There are more gems on the LP. Sorry that my copy is only in fair condition.

The Music Side Of Ford & Angel

2011-10-19T14:36:00.000-07:00

Space Odesey (2001 Space Odyssey)

The Music Side Of Ford & Angel
Baldwin Sound Productions, Inc. - Mechanicsburg, PA - CS 7803
1974

Bob Braun's Lonely, Lonely Town

2011-10-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

Bless Them All

Bob Braun's Lonely, Lonely Town
Arranged by Cliff Lash - Prod. by Lewis Chitty
Wrayco Records
R14347

From the back cover: But I must confess it wasn't until quite recently that I began to take Bob seriously as a vocalist. Until that time, he was merely an immensely popular television personality who also just happened to sing an occasional tune.

Then a funny thing happened on the way to press one night. Bob had arrived in Columbus to headline the new Scot's Inn – and for this writer's money ushered in a completely new facet to his already impressive career.

I sat and listened and (being as candid as I can be) wondered. The guy had finally and actually become a singer. A real singer.

– Ron Pataky, Theater Editor, Columbus Citizen Journal, May 21, 1972

The Moods Of Love

2011-10-15T07:49:00.000-07:00

Bridge Over Trouble Waters

Blue Bayou

The Moods Of Love
Jewel Recording Studio - Cincinnati, Ohio
JRC 753

From the back cover: Since playing at The Red River Restaurant, located on Route 125-Amelia, Ohio, we have met these talented friends and we have enjoyed putting this album together of pop tunes for you. We hope you enjoy these selections.

The Madeira Brass Volume 1

2011-10-14T18:36:00.000-07:00

James Bond Theme

The Madeira Brass Volume 1
Jewel(?) 8483

Home made jacket with missing rear sheet which may have featured some information on the group.

Most likely, Madeira refers to a Greater Cincinnati, Ohio suburb.

X-Plorations - The Torrent-Alexander Duo

2011-10-14T13:58:00.000-07:00

Moon Of Manakoora

X-Plorations

The Torrent-Alexander Duo
Featuring the Hammond X-66
Do-Re-Mi Records 33233-S

Shay Torrent was a ballpark organist for The Chicago White Socks and (from the back cover): Shay serves as official organist at Anaheim Stadium, Home of the California Angels. He and Axel Alexander met in Chicago and toured together according to the jacket notes.

I blogged this Shay Torrent, Mercury label album last week.

While the cover of this private press album hints at "experimentation"... don't get your hopes up. This isn't Ferrante and Teicher Soundproof: Sound Of Tomorrow Today. The sample above is the only somewhat, exotica or space age tune on the album.

Hail We Americans

2011-10-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

Iowa Corn W. V. A. Coal

Robert Richie
Writer And Producer Presents
Hail We Americans
Featuring Roy Dee
Pyasaw Music Studio, Lincoln Orange, California

No information other than what's printed on the cover.

Held Over!!! The Quintet With The Sweetest Sound In Town

2011-10-11T17:49:00.000-07:00

Me And Mrs. Jones

Held Over!!! The Quintet With The Sweetest Sound In Town
Brians Recording Studios - Tyler, TX
Century Records RHBP-310

1974

From the back cover: If you show up at one of the top night spots in East Texas and see The Quintet on the marquee, check out the people who come to see them. You'll see businessmen and their wives, teenagers with long hair, doctors, goat-roapers, lawyers, stag guys, little ole ladies, stag chicks, rich people, stag chicks, poor people, and, oh yeah, stag chicks.

John And Wynn Live At The Casa Nova

2011-10-11T16:07:00.001-07:00

Ebb Tide

Wynn And John " Live" At The Casa Nova
Casa Nova Records, Ypsilanti, MI
CN-201

Vickie Britton ...Alive!

2011-10-11T13:38:00.000-07:00

Dancing Machine

Vicki Britton ...Alive!
Vicki Britton Records
1976

That cover art is a keeper! And just in time for Halloween!

Cruising With Bill Bailey

2011-10-07T16:47:00.000-07:00

My Way

Cruising With Bill Bailey
Art Records Manufacturing Company - Ft. Lauderdale, FL - CLP505

From the back cover: Carleton "Bill" Bailey was born to sing. Although he never received formal training. In 1960, he was employed by an advertising agency and stayed with them for the next nine years until the urge to travel, especially sea travel, became so strong that he left a promising career in advertising to take a job as a bar waiter on the M/S Starward, while working, Bill would sing and, one day, entertainer Johann Sandquist heard him singing "Yesterday" and called him over and asked him to sing it again while he backed him with his guitar. Bill complied and Sandquist spoke to the cruise director who put Bill in the next native show, where he became an instant success.

Sweet Dreams - Betty Long

2011-10-06T16:24:00.000-07:00

Cry, Cry, Cry

Sweet Dreams
Betty Long
Justice Recording Co. - Winston-Salem, North Carolina - J-LP-113
Synder Album Co. - Winston-Salem, North Carolina

From the back cover: Betty Long, a young miss of only 15 years, is destined to be heard around this country for a long time. She has talent (witness this recording), initiative (she would rather sing than anything she can think of), and as sweet a personality as any one would ever want to encounter.

Note To The President - Randy Wallace

2011-10-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

Note To The President

Randy Wallace
JRC (Jewel) - Cincinnati, Ohio - 83024
1983

Although the name of the president the song title refers to is not mentioned on the jacket, Reagan became president in 1981 following Jimmy Carter. Note To The President was written by Wallace.

Generally I don't need to worry much about blogging local private press. Most artists are long gone from the scene and there is rarely a mention of them online. However, surprise, the song Note To The President is available by digital/purchase download. But apparently Wallace re-recorded the song for a later album titled Bringer of Light which can purchased online/download.

From the back cover: I believe in a bright future for our country as "... one nation, under God...", and as long as our Constitution continues to guarantee freedom of speech, I will ever declare it!

Even though the album is a curious hybrid between lounge and gospel I decided to post the LP here rather than my gospel blog. Even the gospel numbers are a bit lounge-like.

The mailing address for Wallace, from the back cover, is an Independence, Kentucky address. An address located about 3 miles from my house. Finding local records like this is what makes the collecting hobby exciting.

I refrain from posting samples if I find that the artist is still working. Maybe Randy will find this post and give me permission to post the original version of Note To The President?

Popular Bells Of Stone Mountain - Herbie Koch

2011-10-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

Autumn Leaves

Popular Bells Of Stone Mountain
Herbie Koch, Official Carillonneur, State Of Georgia

1969(?)

From the back cover: One of the most popular attractions at Historic Stone Mountain is the Schulmerich-designed "Carillon Americana". The carillon was given to the Park by the Coca-Cola Company after its exhibition at the 1964-65 New York World's Fair. Since the installation of the 610-bell instrument, 122 new bell tones have been added, making it the world's largest carillon.

Of course... it's a little hard to drag your carillon from one motel lounge to the next... but I just had to blog this one!

Introducing The Andy Moder Quintet

2011-10-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

By The Time I Get To Phoenix

Introducing The Andy Moder Quintet
Rite Record Productions and Manufacturing - Cincinnati, Ohio
1969 - #24763/24764

From the back cover: America's newest most exciting sound of the day. Their recording of "By The Time I Get To Phoenix" introduces their unique sound and fresh approach to a ballad. In this album they not only have a feel for jazz, but they are tempered with simplicity and good taste.

The Quintet entertains in Cincinnati, and surrounding area for many festival occasions.

Colleagues

2011-09-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

Snow Bird

Colleagues
A Mikco Production
Counterpart Creative Studios
Queen City Album - Cincinnati, Ohio
2143

Dora Hall Sings Pop Country

2011-09-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

King Of The Road

Dora Hall Sings Pop Country
Cozy Records, Chicago, IL
SP-102

The songs were arranged & conducted by H. B. Barnum, Stu Phillips and Jimmy Haskell.

Dora Hall has been deemed the "Queen" of vanity entertainment. Hall was married to Leo Hulseman, the founder of the immensely successful Solo Cup Company. Apparently Leo was happy to finance dozens of record releases for Dora, all of which were given away free of charge with packages of plastic cups and plates during the 1960's. This information comes from a website dedicated to Hall: http://dorahall.tvheaven.com/

From the back cover: Her versatility is recognized by her outstanding renditions of both Rock and Roll and Pop-Country music. Dora Hall is an exponent of today's young sound. Her warm understanding of today's youth is reflected in her songs.

Check out Dora Hall Great Hits!

Dora Hall Great Hits!

2011-09-30T15:48:00.001-07:00

Satisfaction

Dora Hall Great Hits!
Cozy Records, Chicago IL
PL-1000-D

I found an unusual treasure on my run to the thrift store today. I thought this album was going to be a private press. And it is. But what is unusual about this "vanity" press is that Dora Hall is apparently the "Queen" of vanity entertainment. Hall was married to Leo Hulseman, the founder of the immensely successful Solo Cup Company. Apparently Leo was happy to finance dozens of record releases for Dora, all of which were given away free of charge with packages of plastic cups and plates during the 1960's. This information comes from a website dedicated to Hall: http://dorahall.tvheaven.com/

This is a fabulous story for the private or vanity press collector like myself. This album is loaded with covers of hit pop songs like These Boots Are Made For Walking and Satisfaction. This LP was originally released on the Dot label.

Got to love it when an artist finds a way to live their dreams.

As always, let me know if there is a problem with any post and I will attempt to make corrections.

The Brass Buffs Scratch 1 - Out Of Sight

2011-09-26T08:15:00.000-07:00

Help From My Friends

The Brass Buffs Scratch 1
Out Of Sight
LPS101

From the back cover: ...a band of eight young men whose music appeals to kids who like a solid rock beat and adults who are attracted to the melodic line. In the eight months since this group has formed they have performed at such spots as Phipps Auditorium, The Haytt House, The Hilton Hotel, Crestmore Country Club, numerous high school dances, and a reception for the Vice President of the United States. In the 1967 Denver Teen Fair they managed to place among the 7 semifinalists of the nearly 180 bands that originally entered, and walked away with a special award.

Henry Lewis - Inside Of Your Love

2011-09-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

Sing Me Sweet Songs Of Love

Henry Lewis
Inside Of Your Love
Burgundy Stereo LP #001

From the back cover: There are many singers that come to Music City every year. Very few have the talent and guts to stick it out. Henry Lewis happens to have both of these unique qualities.

Dave Baney Hits The Mark

2011-09-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

Malaguena

Dave Baney Hits The Mark

The Mark may have a room on The Delta Queen(?). The jacket notes were written by Vic Tooker, Musical Director For The Delta Steamboat Company.

Online references to Baney are few and far between. Incredibly, I blogged another earlier local press, Up Up and Away featuring Dave playing a local club with his brothers.

I found a commercial CD online attributed to a Dave Baney, So In Love With Jazz Guitar. I also found a photo of the artist that looks sort of like the photo of Baney found on the back cover of this LP.

Baney was a seasoned standup comic and guitarist. This LP is basically his act, stand-up and all. I chose the one track that features his excellent guitar playing.

The Dale Davis Show

2011-09-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

Fever

The Dale Davis Show
Dale Davis Productions - Oklahoma City, OK

Doing My Thing - Norm Paavola

2011-09-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

Today Tomorrow Forever

Doing My Thing
Norm Paavola
Sound Associates - Grand Rapids, Michigan
SLP 162

This is an Elvis tribute album. The covers are OK. Nothing shocking to sample from. However, the last track on the B side was written by Eric Clark (lead guitar, piano and back-up) and sung in Paavola's "real" voice. There is a charming simplicity to this track that caught my attention.

More Bob Allen At The Christopher Inn - Volume Two

2011-09-10T15:55:00.000-07:00

Wichita Lineman

More Bob Allen At The Christopher Inn
Volume Two

The Christopher Inn was a hotel located downtown in Columbus, Ohio. I believe the Inn was torn down in the late 80s. The jacket notes suggest that plans were in the works for an expansion to add 550 new guest rooms, housed in a crescent shape tower rising thirty stories above the entire complex. I assume, this is the odd looking building that you see in the illustration. That never happened.

I used to visit the lounge on occasion in the late 70s and may have seen Bob Allen play. As I remember, the lounge was a classic dark room featuring comfortable leather chairs that you would sink into.

Telly - Telly Savalas

2011-09-09T14:47:00.000-07:00

Rubber Bands And Bits Of String

TellyTelly Savalas
MCA Records CMA-436
1974

Of course everyone knows who Telly Savalas is. OK... maybe folks MY AGE know who Savalas. The youth of America may know Savalas from his roles in movies such as Battle Of The Bulge or The Dirty Dozen amongst a number of other well know 60s films. However, he may be best known for his title role in the 1970s crime drama, Kojak. This record would have ridden on the coattails of that period of his fame.

It seems like the 70s were a fertile time for Hollywood names who wanted to explore a recording career.

This is a great example of big name lounge. Telly is invited to play The Motel Lounge anytime!

Read more about Savalas on his wiki page.

Welcome To The World Of Pearle Rae

2011-09-09T06:52:00.000-07:00

Country Style (Medley)

Welcome To The World Of Pearle Rae
Music Arranged And Conducted By Max Di Julo
Raemax 1002

Without Love, the first track on side is credited, words and music by Max Di Julio. From the back cover: Widely acclaimed composer, Max Di Julio, has composed music for films, television, orchestras and choirs; as well as for pop and jazz groups.

Apparently Rae was "Colorado's star-spangled Fourth of July girl"... That's all the back cover has to offer.

There are no online mentions of Rae or Julo that I could find.

Spelling On The Stone

2011-09-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

Spelling On The Stone

LS Records LS-53

Same song on both sides. Uncredited, but the song may be attributed to an Elvis impersonator named Dan Willis.

The Pussy Cat Song - Connie Vannett

2011-09-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

The Pussy Cat Song
Connie Vannett
Gil's Funny Records - No. 69
Skips Record Distributing

Funny song about a pet cat.

Everybody Is An Asshole - Couto And Mulligan

2011-09-07T15:19:00.000-07:00

Everybody Is An Asshole To Somebody Sometime

Everybody Is An Asshole
Couto And Mulligan
Mullco - 1980

This Old Is New - Sister Mary Renee On The Cordovox

2011-09-06T04:25:00.000-07:00

Okie From Muskogee

This Old Is New
Sister Mary Renee - St. Francis Home, Breckenridge Minnesota.
Sound 80 - 26025

Now Sister Mary Renee may not have gigged in The Motel Lounge, unless she went looking for sinners to convert. Her track list doesn't include any gospel numbers, including one jaw-dropped of a tune, Okie From Muskogee, so Sister finds herself in this blog rather than my Gospel Blog.

From the back cover: Accompanying Sister Renee on this recording are her uncle, Mr. Norby Fisher, drums and Mr. Leo Nelson, banjo, from Hoyt Lakes, Minnesota. The vocal numbers are sung by a recent employee of St. Francis Home, Sr. Rosemary Duggan, Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Don Lee At The Mar-Key Organ

2011-09-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

Lonesome Road

Don Lee At The Mar-Key Organ
Kaybank Recording Corp. - Minneapolis

From the back cover: Now a popular entertainer at the famed Mar-Key Club at the Hastings Hotel in Minneapolis, he is also well remembered by other private club members and by thousands of patrons of the old Covered Wagon in Minneapolis.

Curious album. It appears that Lee sat down and recorded each side in a single take.

Themes Of The Smokies - Louis & Audrey Stamey

2011-09-02T07:05:00.000-07:00

Cherokee Boogie

Themes Of The Smokies

Louis & Audrey Stamey
Mark Five CR-4609

Rite Record Production - Cincinnati, Ohio - 28522

From the back cover: This is the second LP for "The Cherokee Sweethearts", Louis and Audrey Stamey. You'll find in this collection of songs many of the ones you've heard them play during their many years as a featured attraction on the Indian Reservation in Cherokee, on TV, radio and in hundreds of personal appearances. This is "the music of the Hills," their music and yours.

The Stamey's worked out of Drexel, North Carolina.

Emma At The Royal

2011-09-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

Bali Hai

Emma At The Royal
Lehua Records SL 7026
1976

Emma Veary live at The Monarch Room Of The Royal Hawaiian Hotel.

Live Hawaiian Party - Sam Makia And His Hawaiian Islanders

2011-09-01T03:34:00.001-07:00

Beyond The Reef

Live Hawaiian Party
Sam Makia And His Hawaiian Islanders
Tifton International TS 83

Recorded live at Bill Green's Golden Dragon - "Malia" Polynesian Room – Asbury Park, NJ.

No mention online of either Sam Makia or The Gold Dragon. From the photos the room is a box with drop ceilings, a few plastic trees and tropical print drapes over the windows. Fun!

On With The Show - Gary Edwards & Sage

2011-08-31T14:59:00.000-07:00

Live And Let Die

On With The Show
Gary Edwards & Sage
Micah Records MR100
Creative Workshop - Nashville, Tennessee

An act whose talent agency was located in Louisville, Kentucky.

The Greek Tones - Translations

2011-08-27T05:58:00.000-07:00

Ertha Ke Pali (Vango Pavloudis)

The Greek Tones
Translations
Jewel Records - Cincinnati, Ohio - JRC 80876
1980

John Goulandris - Bouzouki
Alex Layliev - Percussion
Vango Pavloudis - Keyboard, Bass and Vocals

Engineer - Rusty York

The Gary R. Smith Company

2011-08-26T15:18:00.000-07:00

Desperado

The Gary R. Smith Company
Rite Record Production - Cincinnati, Ohio - 36907

Cincinnati, Ohio area group made up of Gary Smith, Charlene Davidson, Bill Jolliff, Dan Burton and Tim Short. I think many of these folks were studio musicians who played on many locally produced recordings.

The Wild and Mild Sides of Woody Martens

2011-08-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

Caravan (Wild And Mild)

Ebb Tide (Wild And Mild)

Echo Boogie (Woody's Mood)

Woody's Mood (Woody's Mood)

The Wild and Mild Sides of Woody Martens
Recorded Live in the Fox's Lair of Reynard's Restaurant, Lake Worth, Fla.
Distributed by Danwood Enterprises - Farmland, Indiana
Art Records - ALP-46

1967 (mentioned in an Billboard Magazine/Muntz Stereo ad)

Woody's Mood
Woody Martens At The Hammond Organ
Art Records - ALP-70-S

From the back cover: The organ is a Hammond, model B-3, equipped with two Fisher K-10 space-expander reverberation units. A Leslie speaker, model 31-H, a Leslie speaker, model 122-R, and a Hammond PR-40 are used as tone cabinets. All effects, sounds, and rhythm accompaniment are produced by the artist and the organ - none by artificial means.

These are outstanding private press albums. Apparently Martens made at least two albums. Whoever owned the jacket/album pictured above slid the Woody's Mood LP in with the Wild and Mild jacket. I've included samples from both records. I also found a third LP online titled Wild & Woody.

Martens was inventive, creating a variety of sonic effects to help sell the songs he was covering. It's difficult to date the Wild And Mild album, but at the very least Marten was heavily influenced by exotica. He may have been influenced by Korla Pandit, but that is an just an assumption on my part. This is one of the better space age organ LPs I've heard.

The Woody's Mood LP, recorded live sometime later, features Marten was backed by drums (although the drum levels are low and don't do much in the way of support). This LP features more of a standard 60s lounge groove.

Apparently Martens passed away from cancer at the age of 56 in 1992.

Ron Libby - Shine On

2011-08-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

Just The Way You Are

My Love Does It Good

Ron Libby
Shine On
Whirl-A-Way Records - Falmouth, ME - WAW 72641
Queen City Album - Cincinnati, Ohio - 101021

Eddie Nash and Joy King

2011-08-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

No Place Like Home (Wizrerphone)

Wildwood Flower (One Man Band)

Eddie Nash and Joy King
Live Performance At Ghost Town, Maggie Valley, N.C.
HCDD - 1001
1973

Ghost Town is or was an amusement park that seems to have been closed for renovations in 2010.

The back cover notes mention Nash's 10 instrument one man band that "merited a feature in Ripley's Believe It Or Not, April 26, 1973.

This record was made after the duo spent "several seasons at Ghost Town." I found an example online of one other album they made together.

Introducing The Fabulous Bill Todd

2011-08-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

Granada

Introducing The Fabulous Bill Todd
The Quiet Boy
Essay Productions 14891

Obscure solo LP featuring Todd, his guitar and the occasional early drum machine rhythm.

By Request - The Guys And Dolls

2011-08-16T09:42:00.000-07:00

Killing Me Softly With His Song

Seasons In The Sun

By Request
The Guys And Dolls
GD Records

From the back cover: The mint fresh aura these kids radiate is deeply infectious. Their physical appearance is what every mom and dad in this great country hopes his or her child will reflect... "CLEANLINESS," a proper commodity not always found with their age group peers.

The Unique Sound Of The Vega Bros.

2011-08-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

Oriental Melody - Marcos L. Vega

The Unique Sound Of The Vega Bros.
Featuring Marcos Vega And His Paraguayan Harp
Jewel Records - Cincinnati, Ohio - LPS 668

Apparently The Vega Bros. were engaged at The Carrousel Inn, Cincinnati, Ohio when they decided to make this private press recording.

From the back cover: Already well-established in South America, they (The Vega Bros) are enjoying success in the United States in such places as Miami's Hotel Fontainebleau, The Concord Hotel in The Catskills, Chicago's Continental Plaza Hotel and Cincinnati's famous Carrousel Inn.

This album is very different from the typical Jewel pressing. Jewel pressed many white southern gospel albums. This was an upscale project for Jewel, including the cover, which may seem a bit cheesy by today's standards, but was an accomplishment back in the day for Jewel who produced many album stock covers. Rusty York owner of the label owner/operator did a fine job engineering the sound.

Our Own Thing - The Voyagers

2011-08-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

Joy To The World

Mystery Flight

Our Own Thing
The Voyagers
Jewel Records LPS 297
Queen City Album 20614

This was a fun find for me. A local lounge press (Jewel and Queen City Album were located in Cincinnati, Ohio).

There is also a tie-in promotion with an Indianapolis, IN "air travel club" of the same name (Voyager 1000). From the back cover: The Voyagers first met Voyager 1000 in Indianapolis six months ago - and it was a case of mutual admiration - because each group likes to do "Their Own Thing." Subsequently the title of this inaugural album.

It is difficult to know, from the notes, who approached who or why/how Voyager 1000 thought this group or any act might promote the "club"on vinyl. I don't see how the album could have be distributed as a promotional tool. Anyway, the music, provided by Bunny Dean - Vocals, Benny Santora - Keyboard/Vocals and Louie Mazzucca drums/vocals is pure lounge. Additional artists credited include Bill Holmes - Bass, Ed Drake - Guitar, Frank Brown - Trumpet and Mike Andre - Sax

Mystery Flight is an original composition according to the notes.

Variations - Lite Frost

2011-07-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

Drum Boogie

Variations
Lite Frost
Group Effort Sound Studios - Cincinnati, Ohio

Check out another Lite Frost album in The Motel Lounge!

The Friendship - First Edition

2011-07-13T14:24:00.000-07:00

Fountain Square Cincinnati (B. Darvell - D. Grimes - D. Rice)

Wherever You Are - Tribute To John Lennon (B. Darvell - D. Grimes)

The Friendship
First Edition
Bee Jay Studios - Orlando, Florida
NR12383

From the back cover: "The Friendship" appears internationally and is home based in Tampa, Florida.

Curiously, there is a tune written about Fountain Square, which is located in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. At first glance I thought this LP was a local lounge find (I live close to Cincinnati). But there is no connection to Cincinnati to be found in the notes on the back cover.

One of the band members who I believe autographed the back cover, Barry Darvell, appears to have been a teenage "heart throb"charting with a song titled "Fountain Of Love". He made a number of recordings for Atlantic. This record seems to be a rarity if you are collecting Darvell. According to information found in the article I linked to above, Darvell retired from the entertainment business in 1982, moved to Gulf Shores, Alabama to pursue a career in real estate.

Other members in the group list a wide array of professional experiences to their credit.

Songs styles are all over the place. The record was geared towards the supper club or lounge crowd.

Bill Walters

2011-07-07T19:56:00.000-07:00

Send In The Clowns

Bill Walters

Fraternity FRAT 0009

Queen City Album Recording Studio
JRC (Jewel Recording - Mastered by Rusty York - Cincinnati, Ohio) 82021

Promotional album for The Main Event at The Ramada Inn Northeast, Cincinnati, Ohio.

From the back cover: He sings in this album, of course, a bit like you-know-who (Tom Waits, you say?). – Dale Stevens, Entertainment Editor - Cincinnati Post.

Tom Waits?!! I'm not making that up. Must be some other Tom Waits...

I've blogged one other Bill Walters album here in The Motel Lounge: They Say

I also blogged his Miracle At Christmas album.

An Evening With Bryan - Bryan Smith And His Orchestra

2011-07-07T19:09:00.001-07:00

Tango Party

An Evening With Bryan
Bryan Smith And His Orchestra
B.S. Productions BTS 1008

Presenting Ronnie Dale At The Hammond Organ And Piano

2011-07-07T18:10:00.000-07:00

Ebb Tide

Presenting Ronnie Dale At The Hammond Organ And Piano

From the back cover: As official organist of the Cincinnati Reds, Ronnie Dale plays to thousands of people each year, and because of his versatility and showmanship he has earned national praise for his work at Crosley Field. Due to his outstanding work, for the past several years, he has been named best organist in the National League...

Beside playing at the ball park, Ronnie entertains nightly at The Golden Rooster, Cincinnati's newest supper club and lounge and in the summer he is featured at Coney Island's Sunlite Pool, the largest recirculating pool in the country. Filling in any spare moments, Ronnie gives concerts for the Hammond Organ dealers, and plays to enthusiastic crowds where ever he goes...

This album, his first, features music of many moods on the organ and piano, which he plays simultaneously, placing the piano at right angles with the organ. We feel you will especially enjoy this album, which runs the gamut from nostalgic tunes like Moon Rive and Ebb Tide to his wildcat version of Alley Cat...

Ronnie Dale and The Golden Rooster seem all but lost to history now, at least to online searches for information.

Till Death Do Us Part... Bob Braun

2011-07-05T08:55:00.000-07:00

Till Death Do Us Part

Just In Time

Till Death Do Us Part...
Bob Braun
Vocals With Chorus And Orchestra Directed By Sid Bass
Decca DL 4339
1962

This was Bob Braun's only record to chart. He also recorded for United Artists, but most of his releases are to be found on small independent labels. He was a well known TV entertainer and recording artist in the Cincinnati area market. You can check out my blog post featuring Braun's record, Here's Bob, on Queen City Album recorded in 1974.

Bob's style never changed that much. His market was largely made up of female homemakers who watched TV during the day. He worked during a period (several decades) when local television could support local musical talent.

Sid Bass released some cool albums including With Bells On which I've blogged featuring a great tune titled The House Is Haunted.

Broomstraw At Bad Manors

2011-06-29T07:38:00.000-07:00

Poor Marta

Broomstraw At Bad Manors
Complimentary Pass
Jewel Studio - Orphan Studio
JRC 83030
1983

There are several dates on the album, the date on the cover, 1979 and a date on the back cover, 1983.

Jewel Records was located in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Jewel logo is normally printed on the cover or label. In this case, the logo isn't to be found. However, the matrix numbers include JRC so I can safely assume this is a local (Jewel) press.

I can't find mention of a Bad Manors (bar or club) that was located in Cincinnati, Ohio area.

Song writing is credited to J. Tucker. From the other credits found on the album you might assume that the group was a "family" act. Names include Alan, Dan, Mike and Scar Tucker. Other members include Jim Donnermeyer, Joe Friedhoff, John Valentine and Gus Hagedorn. Engineers credited are: Jr. Bennett, R. Seible, J. Krause and D. Smith.

I Think We Can Make It - The Velvet Storm

2011-06-23T15:49:00.000-07:00

Malegas

My Way

I Think We Can Make It
The Velvet Storm
Blue Ash
Kingsmill Recording Studio, Columbus, Ohio
BAR-2008

The Velvet Storm, from what I can determine from the jacket, was a lounge band working out of Central Ohio.

Typical lounge treatments, some tunes are more fab than others. An instrumental tune titled Malegas is a standout. Of course, I had to post My Way, a favorite lounge band staple tune.

Jerry Conrad's Rhythm And Brass Alive At Friar Tuck's

2011-06-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

Felicia

Jerry Conrad's Rhythm And Brass

Alive At Friar Tuck's

Jewel Records - Cincinnati, OH

LPS 133

The last local private press record I expected to find on Jewel was a brass album. 99% of the records I find on Jewel are white southern gospel.

The most recent of the few mentions of this group I found online, is as a wedding band in 2005. I also found a mention in a December 5, 1970 Billboard of Rhythm And Brass playing behind Doc Severinson with The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra in Music Hall.

I found one brief mention of Friar Tuck's online. Apparently it was a nightclub located somewhere in Northern Kentucky. I'll have to ask around to see if anyone remembers the location.

Joe Cowan At The Twin Keyboards

2011-05-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

A Taste Of Honey

Joe Cowan At The Twin Keyboards
Carellen Records, Inc. - Ormond Beach, Florida
No. 130

Apparently this is Cowan's second album. His first offering was titled Joe Cowan Stylings At The Hammond Organ. I believe Cowan recorded at least four albums. I found several more albums online: For Your Dancing Pleasure and The Magic Of Music. All of them self-produced and sporting pre-printed stock art covers.

Signed/dated: 1976.

Lee Sohn At The Place Pigalle Miami Beach

2011-05-19T16:22:00.000-07:00

Somewhere My Love

Lee Sohn At The Place Pigalle Miami Beach

Ridge Record Corporation LP 1001

Obscure lounge artist who came to the states from Korea in 1960. Also from the back cover we learn that Sohn played The Latin Quarter in New York for 16 weeks, The Palmer House in Chicago and The Cork Club in Houston. He appeared with Harry Belafonte, Danny Thomas, Phyllis Diller and Al Hirt. He sings Yiddish, English, Korean, French, Italian and Hawaiian.

He apparently also made appearance on The Merv Griffin Show.

Belly Dance With Themi Kakias And The Continentals

2011-05-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

Zinqualla's Routine

Belly Dance With Themi Kakias And The Continentals
The Coronet Recording Co. - Columbus, Ohio
LPS 7060
1977

Excellent private press Middle Eastern album. As you can tell from the sample, the music isn't straight "Middle Eastern" fare, but blends with touches of American pop to create almost a psych/jam sound.

Fun find!

Lite Frost

2011-05-14T17:46:00.000-07:00

My Way

Lite Frost
Lite Frost Records
Counterpart Creative Studio - Cincinnati, Ohio

Para Gozar - Roberto y Catita

2011-05-14T15:00:00.000-07:00

Besame Mucho

Tequila

Para Gozar
Roberto y Catita
Jewel Records - Cincinnati, Ohio
LPS-162

Here's an unusual find for my area. A local private press with a latin theme.

From the back cover: Catita, a native of Cincinnati, became an ardent admirer of Latin music during the year she spent in Mexico. She not only learned the language but managed to capture the Latin mood – the "sabor" of the Latin song. She has performed on local and national television and and has sung with big bands, but the idea of a completely Latin performance remained a dream until she met Roberto.

A long way from his native Caracus , Venezuela, Roberto had his own musical group in Miami for six years. When he came to Cincinnati he brought with him a repertoire of songs from all parts of South America and the Caribbean.

There are no last names on the jacket. Cincinnati has never has been mecca for Latin music. It is interesting how these folks ended up here making a private press Latin record.

Tony Gorody Sings & Plays The Warwick's Favorites

2011-05-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

And I Love You So

Tony Gorody Sings & Plays The Warwick's Favorites
Paris Records
ACA 6542

Budapest born lounge singer, Tony Gorody was engaged from 1973 through 1989 at The Blue Room in at The Warwick Hotel located amid Houston's cultural and Medical Center.

Dinner With Bill

2011-05-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

Adventures In Paradise

Dinner With Bill
Bill Welker At The Hammond
Mus-I-Col, Inc. Columbus, Ohio

From the back cover: When not "delivering mail" on his "Rural Route", Bill Welker can usually be found at the console of his "HAMMOND 77"!! At the "Holiday Inn" he "plays for pay" but mostly he plays for his own "enjoyment" and that of his friends. Not only do people like to "listen" to his music but they really enjoy "watching" Bill put the organ through its paces, for he truly "loves" his muic and that "love" comes through to the listener and/or observer!! – Bill has entertained at most local and surrounding "eateries" and "night clubs" in the Zanesville (Ohio) area, and presently plays nightly (except for Sundays and Mondays) at the Holiday Inn east of Zanesville. So, for some good food and some very pleasant listening, come have "DINNER WITH BILL"

"Rock on" Bill!

Houston And Dorsey

2011-05-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

Ebb Tide

Houston And Dorsey
At The World's Most Famous Beach
Carellen Records - Deland, Florida
Rite Record Productions - Cincinnati, Ohio

Rite matrix numbers 297 - 21372

Apparently Houston and Dorsey were primarily a comedy act who released a few records, but thought there was enough interest in their work to press a strictly musical LP.

From the back cover: Houston and Dorsey have been a team for twenty years, and were recording back in 1948, for Continental Records. For the last seven years they have been appearing at Dayton Beach night clubs, meanwhile making two movies (Daytona Beach Weekend, 1965) innumerable appearances on TV and radio. They performed by invitation before presidents Harry S. Truman and John F. Kennedy. – We were interested to see, among the many letters from armed forces personnel in distant parts of the world, one telling that their records were playing aboard the U.S.S. Charles R. Ware, while under fire in the Gulf Of Tonkin!

Houston and Dorsey's style relies heavily on a the "watery guitar" sound developed by Vincent Bell.

Ebb Tide, the last track on the B side, puts that watery guitar sound to work and is a killer track.

Mellow Memories - Lewis And Clark

2011-04-22T15:32:00.000-07:00

After The Lovin

Mellow Memories
Lewis And Clark
Tioga Studios / North Wind Records

From the back cover: All sounds on this album are the same as performed live on stage by the Lewis and Clark Duo.

Although this album is on the mellow side, Lewis and Clark's versatility should not be under estimated. Their span of music rages from Country Western to Country Rock, from old standards to pop, and from 50s Rock & Roll to current hits.

It is hard to put the Lewis and Clark sound into any certain category. The best description might be "middle of the road" music.

This copy is autographed!

Naturally - Lee Mann

2011-04-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Jesus Christ Superstar (Medley)

The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face

My Way

Naturally
Lee Mann
Jewel Records - Cincinnati, Ohio LPS 369

It's a rare thing to find a local lounge record in my area, so I'm pleased to announce Lee Mann's first album Now Appearing In The Motel Lounge!

Rusty York, musician, engineer, copy writer, owner-operator of Jewel Records is also credited for the cover photo!

From the back cover: This "IS" Lee Mann Naturally.

This is a Manic Mark Magical Musical Moment, naturally!

Hawaii's Golden Voice - Eddie Kekaula

2011-04-04T03:18:00.000-07:00

Beyond The Reef

Hawaii's Golden Voice
Eddie Kekaula
Rade Records KPL-1001
Kekaula Productions - Vancouver, B.C. Canada

Nice autographed (1977) private press. There are a few interesting items from the back cover. Jack Pitman, pictured upper right, wrote Beyond The Reef (an "Exotica" staple tune). According to the notes, Pittman was appearing nightly at The Captain Cook Room, Surfrider Hotel, Waikiki. Kekaula introduces a Pittman tune on this album titled When The Maple Leaves Turn Gold.

Jerry Byrd, a well known steel guitarist, is heard on this album.

Apparently Kekaula became gained some national attention due an unsuccessful raft adventure that left him as part of the crew, barely surviving for 69 days in the Pacific.

Sounds Of A Man Alone

2011-03-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

The Sounds Of A Man Alone

By Dean Del Ray

Great low budget lounge pressing out of Clarksburg WV.

Jacket notes: "he (Dean) had designed his own guitar and had it special made in – would you believe Japan! No wonder American industry is receiving heavy competition from Japan because that "axe" was beautifully constructed with craftsmanship that would be hard to duplicate."

Apparently the title The Sounds Of A Man Alone refers not too Dean sobbing alone in a hotel room... but to Dean doing his act alone in a Sheraton Hotel lounge.

It's hard to choose a sample to feature. But I'll have to go with a classic lounge number, She's A Lady.

DART

2011-03-27T23:31:00.001-07:00

For Your Love

The Sound Of Dart
Hoot Records
196?

Private press find. The record was manufactured in Vancouver Canada. I'm not sure what these Canadians (?) were going for. Many of the songs sound Motown-like and then on the B side a few psych flavored tunes and then For Your Love. A song with an incredible sax. I mean... is this guy playing the same song? Fun!

Here's a far out poem they wrote for the back cover:

the sound of the dart moves
swiftly in the unseen light
to strike the mood of many listening
a missile of electric notes
exploding the silence into rhythms
and shattering the sorrow of every sad scene
it's soul, man
I'll tell you what it's about
it's four minstrels who gathered as era
taking pipe, drum, and string
and wove the vibrations into a psychedelic theme
they'll wake you, and take you
on a trip of total sound
so if you'd like to go
just happen in the dance of their beat
and all they ask is your time
I've seen the sound of the dart
move swiftly
and as suddenly
they're out of sight
gone
but for the memory of the night
reflections of a song

Reflections of Showboat

2011-03-27T23:27:00.001-07:00

Reflections Of Showboat
Jewel Record 525

Waiting for me at the thrift today was a surprise. I found this local private press that dates to the early 70s. There is no way to tell for certain, but the "Showboat" is probably The Showboat Majestic. A floating entertainment spot that has been docked to The Cincinnati, Ohio side of The Ohio River.

This record wins a Manic Mark Magical Musical Moment Award. Enjoy!

Johnny Prophet - This Is My Life

2011-03-27T23:12:00.001-07:00

This Is My Life

Johnny Prophet
This Is My Life
JJ Records
1972

OK hang on to your underwear! Here's a classic private press record that is not a complete hidden treasure to collectors. However, I felt compelled to share my copy with you.

The recording is professionally executed and Johnny can sing. But I hope you didn't buy this record for your mother!

SURPRISE!

It is interesting to note that, in April of 1972, Bert Reynolds' nude centerfold appeared in Cosmopolitan Magazine. Now Johnny ain't no Burt! Why would he think that copying Burt was a good idea? Or did Burt copy Johnny? These questions finally need to be answered! Is Reynolds a big copy cat?!!!

As always, if there is a problem with any post, let me know and I will attempt to make corrections

The Ken Hacker Society

2011-03-27T23:05:00.001-07:00

Feel Like Makin' Love & NCTB

The Ken Hacker Society
At The Farm
Alcadia Records LP0151875
QCA Recording - Cincinnati, Ohio
1975

Curious local album straight out of the sealed shrink. The liner notes go on about how Ken got tired of doing dance music for 13 years and, after many headaches, heartaches and hangovers, restructured the band as the Ken Hacker Society.

I mentioned that the LP is curious. This is essentially a lounge band and the tracks reflect that, but there are a few Christian numbers on the A side, one, NCTB was written by Hacker. In fact, the number 1 track on the A side is One Way, a religious song.

The cover of Feel Like Makin' Love followed directly by a song about Judgement (NCTB, written by Hacker). These are the number 2 and 3 tracks on the A side. Wow!

The Farm: "It was only natural that the album motif be at The Farm." The Farm is still in business today. http://www.theplacetohaveaparty.com/

As always, if there is a problem with any post, let me know and I will attempt to make corrections.