A's B's And EP's (Mono) - Freddie & The Dreamers

Advantages: Once the biggets band in the world
Disadvantages: Now a **** cabaret band, Freddie and the wet dreams

...Where to begin, at the beginning, at the source, the source of the Mersey, Stockport.. Stockport source of the Mersey, which they've tried very hard to hide. Stockport, birthplace of Paul Morley and the biggest brick structure in Europe, the railway viaduct. That's enough about Stockport. The Mersey, Didsbury/Withington border used to have bands on in the cellar in the sixties, forget about the cavern and the Beatles, South Manchester is where it was all kicking-off, more about Freddie's ridiculous dance steps later. Freddie and the Dreamers, South Manchester's greatest beat combo, the band which made pop history with simultaneous numbers one, two and three, in the US charts. Yet you couldn't quite take them seriously, why did Freddie have to do that stupid dance ? The band Freddie Garrity : vocals and other foolishness... Read review

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Advantages: A fantastic reminder of Queen in their ealier days, great cross section of their material, AWESOME version of "Brighton Rock"
Disadvantages: Perhaps a little "too live" for some, reportedly and undeservedly "disowned" by three of the four band members, not the most polished sound but that adds to the realism IMOand recorded their show

...rendition of the track regarding a Prozzie (Oh dear..) we all know. Finishes halfway through then goes onto.. BICYCLE RACE-total nonsense but enjoyable if you don't take too seriously. Finishes about halfway though the song before the bells start ringing for those of you who are familiar with it I'M IN LOVE WITH MY CAR-Roger takes over the singing of this rocky classic (B side to Bo-rap back in1975 and featured on 'A Night at the Opera' ) Freddie reverts to the Piano and joins in with Brian on backing vocals GET DOWN, MAKE LOVE-Pure Porn and got me into a lot of trouble when my sister grassed me up to my dad when I had the studio version on 'News of the World'. Fantastic guitar effects from Brian (no keyboards or synths believe it or not!) and quivering vocals from Freddie-will make your hair stand on end. The unofficial Medley finishes... Read review

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Advantages: Touches your emotions
Disadvantages: None

...Citing influences ranging from the decidedly serious Martin Sheen to the asinine Chevy Chase to funkmaster Bootsy Collins, the Beta Band is a delight. This aptly titled compilation of three separately released EPs is sure to leave music fans scratching their collective head while trying to define this Scottish band's intricate aural hodgepodge. The Beta Band makes a very distinct and exciting impression. There's the unusual coupling of acoustic guitar, horn, sampled beats, and a catchy refrain on "Dry the Rain"; the hypnotic instrumental "B+A"; and "She's the One," which opens with a chaotic, hippyish drum circle that segues first to an anthemic chorus and then to a highly processed breakdown complete with a Jew's harp. The Three EPs will dominate the CD player, becoming somewhat of an obsession, with each listen revealing some brilliant... Read review

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