Publication: Melody Maker
Date: October 11, 1969
Pages: 33
Content type: Front cover
Headlines/Articles:
- 'I'll Never Fall In Love Again' hits No 1 / BOBBIE – TV DATES HERE: Bobbie Gentry from Chickasaw County, Mississippi has reached No 1 on the MM chart in just five weeks with the Bacharach-David song from the West End show Promises, Promises; Capitol Records released it as a long-shot single from her Touch 'Em With Love album. Stanley Dorfman (BBC) was hoping to bring her over October 19 for the Peter Sarstedt TV series but US commitments prevented it; TV negotiations are ongoing.
- Clapton with Delaney, Bonnie: Eric Clapton is to tour with American band Delaney and Bonnie and will make an Albert Hall appearance with them, probably alongside George Harrison in December; Clapton befriended them on Blind Faith's US tour and has instigated the trip.
- Basie-Bennett tour: Count Basie Orchestra and Tony Bennett returning for a nationwide UK tour next May, opening at the Free Trade Hall, Manchester on May 9 and the Royal Festival Hall, London on May 16.
Advertisements:
- None on cover
Photos/Images:
- Large portrait photo of Bobbie Gentry filling the centre of the page
- Small inset photo of David Bowie (previewing page 22 feature)
- Small circular inset photo of Roger Daltrey (previewing page 5 feature)
- Two small portraits in the Basie-Bennett box: Count Basie and Tony Bennett
Notes:
- Date: October 11, 1969; price 1s weekly
- Cover teasers: David 'Space Oddity' Bowie page 22; Daltrey – why I'd stop singing page 5; Spector speaks centre pages
- Handwritten price "16s" visible in top corner (likely a reseller's mark)
Content type: Charts — Pop 30, Top 20 Albums, US Top Ten, Reggae Hot 20; News
Headlines/Articles:
- Melody Maker Pop 30: Full singles chart. Top entries: 1. I'll Never Fall In Love Again (Bobbie Gentry, Capitol); 2. Bad Moon Rising (Creedence Clearwater Revival, Liberty); 3. A Boy Named Sue (Johnny Cash, CBS); 4. Je T'aime… Moi Non Plus (Jane Birkin & Serge Gainsbourg, Major Minor); 5. Throw Down A Line (Hank & Cliff, Columbia); 6. Lay Lady Lay (Bob Dylan, CBS); 7. It's Getting Better (Mama Cass, Stateside); 8. Good Morning Starshine (Oliver, CBS); 9. Don't Forget To Remember (Bee Gees, Polydor); 10. Nobody's Child (Karen Young, Major Minor). Other notable entries: 11. Hare Krishna Mantra (Radha Krishna Temple, Apple); 13. Space Oddity (David Bowie, Philips); 14. Natural Born Bugie (Humble Pie, Immediate); 21. Oh Well (Fleetwood Mac, Reprise); 29. Sugar, Sugar (Archies, RCA); 30. Saved By The Bell (Robin Gibb, Polydor).
- Top Twenty Albums: 1. Abbey Road (Beatles, Apple); 2. Johnny Cash at San Quentin (CBS); 3. Blind Faith (Polydor); 4. Through The Past Darkly (Rolling Stones, Decca); 5. Stand Up (Jethro Tull, Island); 9. Nashville Skyline (Bob Dylan, CBS).
- US Top Ten (via Cashbox): 1. Little Woman (Bobby Sherman); 3. Sugar, Sugar (Archies); 4. Jean; 5. Easy To Be Hard (Three Dog Night).
- Reggae Hot 20: 1. Baff Boom; 2. If It Don't Work Out (Pat Kelley, GAS); 3. My Whole World Is Falling Down (Ken Parker, Bamboo); new entry Sir Washington at No 16 (To Experience).
- CTA to Play Extra London Date: Chicago Transit Authority, already booked for two Royal Albert Hall concerts, have added a third London date on Tuesday December 2; the full European leg continues to Paris (Olympia, December 8–9).
- Sam and Dave Tour: Sam & Dave, Joe Tex and blind singer Clarence Carter kick off a 21-day European tour in London on Thursday November 14; two London concerts planned for November, probably at the Odeon, Hammersmith.
- Colosseum Change: Guitarist Dave "Clem" Clemson (formerly leader of Bakerloo) has replaced James Litherland in Jon Hiseman's Colosseum; Hiseman commented that James's writing talents had taken a direction differing from the band's founding musical basis, and it was agreed he should leave to form his own band.
- Sir Washington: Profile of the young man with the new English Reggae, releasing his first single on the 13th October on Island Recording Co./Trojan label; management by Arthur Howes.
Advertisements:
- Harmony Grass "I Remember" (RCA 1885, Oct 10th release)
- Sam Apple Pie – "A Nourishing New Album" (Decca SKL5005 / LK5005)
- John Kongos – Confusions About A Goldfish LP
- Flaming Youth's ARK 2 (STL 5533) – "a cosmic single… Imminent First Album" (Fontana)
- Ukulele Method by John Pearce (Feldmans, 64 Dean St, London W.1; Price 6/–)
Photos/Images:
- Small portrait photo of Sir Washington
Notes:
- Pop 30 Publishers key printed below the chart
- Page header: "Page 2 – MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969"
Content type: News
Headlines/Articles:
- Fame – Delaney and Bonnie for Charity (main headline): Georgie Fame and American duo Delaney and Bonnie will star in a special benefit concert at the Royal Albert Hall, London, October 27, raising funds for food and medical supplies for Biafra; the concert is part of a "Biafra '69" initiative; also on the bill: Jimmy McGriff's quartet and a Biafran dance group. The whole Vertigo packaging scheme has been designed by young students. New names added to the bill: Dusty Springfield(?), the Grapefruit, and the orchestral.
- Judy Due In Britain Next Month: Judy Collins arrives in Britain next month for television and personal appearances including The Price Of Fame and the Tommy Jones Show; she has a new single "Chelsea Morning" released on Friday.
- Fare Singer Hurt: Trevor Brice, lead singer of Vanity Fare, was admitted to St Stephen's Hospital; three new LPs by Juicy Lucy, and also Mother Earth are mentioned as upcoming releases.
- New Philips Label: Philips Records launching a new "progressive" label called Vertigo, aimed at established avant-garde pop groups; initial releases include LPs by Juicy Lucy, Valentine Suite, and Chapter Three.
- Beach Boys Join: It is "almost certain" that the Beach Boys will join the bill of the Save Rave, a charity pop concert in aid of the Invalid Children's Aid Association; other names on the bill include the London Palladium, Graham Bond Initiation and Dr. John, the Night Tripper.
- Aitken Delay: New single "The Rise and Fall of Laurel Aitken" delayed after several British companies refused to press it (described as "pornographic"); Swedish firm was found; will be pressed in Sweden.
- Jethro Album: Jethro Tull planning their next album to follow the first holiday they have taken since the group was formed just under two years ago; Ian Anderson: "Our next album will be out in January on our own Chrysalis label and the tracks are all my own compositions."
- Paris Pop and Jazz Festival: Massive five-day pop and jazz festival at Parc de St. Cloud, Paris, October 24–28; promoted by BYG records; artists include Frank Zappa, Ten Years After, Archie Shepp, Don Cherry, Captain Beefheart, Steve Miller, Pierre Latten, Colosseum, Aynsley Dunbar's Retaliation, Pink Floyd, Freedom, Keith Relf's Renaissance, Nice, Caravan, Blossoms Toes, Pretty Things, Cat Mother, Rod Stewart, Allen, Soft Machine, East of Eden, Jon Mattress, Sam Apple Pie, Zoot and the Kenneth Terrace road.
- First King Crimson LP: King Crimson release their debut album In The Court Of The Crimson King on Island on October 10 (Friday); single of the title track already at No 12 in the charts; group begin a two-month US tour.
- In Brief column: Stuart Lyons taking over promotion at London's Country Club; Neville Brothers next week; Bee Gee Barry Gibb's solo disc released; Matt Monro returns from tour of the Philippines; BBC-TV present a big-screen pop show alternating Fridays from October 24, televised from the Mecca Ballrooms; Keith Relf's Renaissance, Yardbird Keith, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles and Andy Williams among guests during the series; Blood, Sweat and Tears plus Petula Clark; Desmond Dekker's follow-up; Jim Meadows' "Cathedral" group have signed a contract; The Trade Winds pub with Mitchell's and Butlers Brewery is launching an entertainment lounge.
Advertisements:
- Royal Albert Hall: Petula Clark – Exclusive British Appearance, Wednesday 29th October; Rolf Harris First London Concert, Saturday 1st November (with The Young Generation and Joe Benjamin); Manitas De Plata – Only London Concert, Wednesday 19th November
- Emitape (EMI) – full lower-half-page advertisement: "Introducing Emitape's Round-the-Clock Pop Programme" promoting Emitape compact cassettes
Photos/Images:
- Portrait photo of Judy Collins (top left)
Notes:
- Page header: "MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969 – Page 3"
- The Emitape ad dominates the lower half of the page with illustrated reel-to-reel tape imagery and lifestyle vignettes ("Study session?", "Hits for the road?", "Tunes for two?", "Party pops?")
Content type: News
Headlines/Articles:
- Howling Wolf Tour Opens This Month (main headline): Howlin' Wolf (Chester Burnett), blues singer, harmonica player and guitarist, begins a 17-day tour of Britain on October 24 at the Blues Loft, High Wycombe, and includes London's Lyceum in The Strand; tour dates run through November and include Roundhouse, Nottingham (2), Boat Club, Blues Festival '69, and London's 100 Club; the group ran into US visa trouble and was delayed two weeks.
- Juke Boy Tour: Weldon Juke Boy Bonner, American one-man blues artist, is currently touring the continent with the American Folk Blues Festival '69; he arrives in Britain on October 28 and plays venues including Blues Loft, Wycombe and Speakeasy (London); full list of dates given.
- Move Open in U.S.: The Move's delayed American tour finally got under way last week when they opened in Glasgow; group touring for three weeks.
- New Plastic Ono Band Single: The Plastic Ono Band will have a new single out this month on Apple — "Turkey"; features John Lennon, Eric Clapton, Klaus Voorman and Ringo Starr; B-side "Don't Worry Kyoko" is a reference to Yoko Ono Lennon's daughter; also out this month on Apple: Billy Preston's album Everything's All Right and a new single "Thank You".
- Marmalade to Sign: Marmalade were that week expected to sign a contract worth more than £100,000 with Decca recording contract with CBS now expired; Decca have booked studio time for the group, who have just returned from tour of Sweden, and they are due in the studios for eight days; they will complete a new single or album.
- Zeppelin Date: Led Zeppelin are to play New York's Carnegie Hall October 17 before starting a three-week tour of the Americas; they go to France for a special concert at the Paris Olympia tomorrow (Friday); after France the group returns to Britain where they will record their second album; Advance orders for already stand at 460,000 copies in the States; first album is now at the top of the Australian charts.
- Bert Tribute: British jazz stars are rallying to support the benefit for Bert Courtley, trumpeter who died last month; the benefit, for his widow Kathy Stobert and three children, is at London's 100 Club on Monday October 20; those appearing include Salena Jones, Humphrey Lyttleton and his band, with Wally Fawkes and Keith Christie.
- O.C. Joins Herb: American singer O.C. Smith had a British hit with "Son Of Hickory Holler's Tramp"; he will do the first half of Herb Alpert's British concert at the Royal Festival Hall on November 14; Alpert and the Tijuana Brass will play the entire second half.
- Pickett in London: Wilson Pickett flew into London on Tuesday to record an appearance on ATV's Tom Jones Show, which will be screened in Britain on October 30; during his two-day stay he discussed his next tour of Europe, which will take place next year.
- Jazz News column: Louis Armstrong, after a year of complete retirement, has briefly taped an appearance on the Andy Williams TV show; Joe Glaser (late president of Associated Booking Corporation) and Armstong's manager since '25 left his shares in International Music Inc to Armstrong; after 12 years with the Acker Bilk Band, drummer Ron McKay has left on account of a disagreement with Bilk about musical policy, replaced by Billy Richardson; Alan Elsdon plays new jazz venue at the Royal Exeter Hotel, Bournemouth, Monday night; Alex Welsh, Terry Lightfoot and Cy Laurie — John Mortimer (tmb) is now the only original member left with Ack; Alan Elsdon playing a farewell tribute to John Surman, off to the continent shortly, on Monday (13) at the Marquee; the Spontaneous Music Ensemble (John Stevens and Trevor Watts) have been Wednesday residents at the Marquee Club; London Jazz Centre Society kicks off its winter concert series with Sam Tracey's Seven Aces Maggie suite at the Lyceum on October 16; the Barbara Thompson–Art Thompson Group plus Bob Downes open music at the Jazz Club, Oxford Street, Monday (13).
Advertisements:
- Terry Reid "Is Superlungs!" (Columbia SCX 6370) — full lower-half-page advertisement with striking photo of Terry Reid
- Small EMI classified ad at foot of page
Photos/Images:
- Small portrait photo of Howling Wolf (caption: "WOLF opens in London")
- Small portrait photo of Eric Clapton (caption: "CLAPTON: Plastic Ono album")
Notes:
- Masthead/publication details box top-left: 161 Fleet St, London EC4; telephone 01-353 6011; Editor-in-Chief Jack Hutton; Features Editor Bob Dawbarn; News Editor Laurie Henshaw; staffmen, advertisement director, provincial news editors listed
- Page header: "Page 4—MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969"
Content type: Feature article (exclusive interview)
Headlines/Articles:
- 'If I had to leave the Who I'd stop singing' (main headline): Exclusive interview with Roger Daltrey by Richard Williams; Daltrey discusses why the Who have stayed together for five years without any personnel changes despite it being the Age of Supergroups; he says the group's greatest asset is their solidarity and success; he credits the band going to America for shaking them out of a lazy period; Daltrey describes his silver-grey Chevrolet Corvette and the train ride to Roger's rural cottage in the country; he talks about the Who's current problem appearing to outsiders as similar to Pete Townshend's epic opera Tommy, which appeared earlier that year on a double album; Daltrey comments on how difficult it was to learn Townshend's complex arrangements and how they finally arrived at the form of their Fairfield Hall, Croydon performances; Roger ascribes the group's continuing popularity to their fans "whom we've got the best set of fans in the world — they're not hyping them, they're not just screaming tennyboppers"; Daltrey: "Next year we're going to limit ourselves to one concert a week, which means the fans will still be able to see us, and we'll have more time to record."
Advertisements:
- "Here they come! Juicy Lucy" — lower-half-page promotional advertisement with group photo; band members: Glenn, Fernando Campbell, Chris Mercer, Pete Dobson, Ray Owen, Neil Hubbard, Keith Ellis; mascot Zelda Plum; contact telephone GER 5063
Photos/Images:
- Large dramatic portrait photograph of Roger Daltrey filling the upper half of the page; caption: "ROGER DALTREY: 'The super groups will strangle each other'"
- Group photo of Juicy Lucy (band promotional image, lower half)
Notes:
- Page header: "MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969—Page 5"
Content type: Live reviews / Caught in the Act; interviews; gossip column
Headlines/Articles:
- Pentangle Move On (main "caught in the act" review headline, by Max Jones): A review discussing the danger in supergroups tending to devour their individual members; the Pentangle's Royal Albert Hall concert was the biggest acoustic group success half-year; Bert Jansch reviewed as laying nearly an absolute solid basis playing rhythm guitar; Danny Thompson, Jacqui McShee, and John Renbourn ("taking most of the solo honours"); the group have become an open-ended vehicle displaying both collective and individual abilities; they appear to be moving on.
- Talking to the Yes Man: Quote from public school headmaster-turned-pop-singer John Anderson of Yes ("Pop is the worst thing to happen since Suez"); discusses the message of pop, the importance of live concerts, playing together and separately for guitarists and drummers, and the hippie message in newspapers; Chris Welch.
- NYJO: National Youth Jazz Orchestra reviewed on the hollowed Scott Club stage; a mistake in starting with the individuals' arrangements written by Billy "Strayhorn" Hayes; the big band style showcased Dick Waller's arrangements; Bill Ashton "nursed the band neatly"; solo honours to Paul Mann (trumpet) with a warm tone, reviewed by Richard Williams.
- Froggatt: American one-man blues artist Weldon "Juke Boy" Bonner reviewed at the Blues Club; played 10-minute "The Voice and Writing of Ray" and other material on Saturday; Louis and the Tijuana Brass "is the only instrumentalist ever seen to colour the orchestra" — reviewed by Dennis Eridge.
- Frank Ricotti: The Frank Ricotti Quartet reviewed as a "thoroughly beautiful little band, thoroughly integrated and together"; performance at the London Jazz Centre Society gig; Chris Tomkins stepping most ably on drums; reviewed by Richard Williams.
- Eclection: Dorris Henderson reviewed — she is described as a blackbird of portrayals with gorgeous abandon; at the Marquee recently she sang a version of the gospel song "Get of Now"; reviewed by Richard Williams.
- Promises: The musical Promises, Promises (West End show), the new Canadian musical based on The Apartment, reviewed at London's Shaftesbury Theatre; the music is by Burt Bacharach and Hal David; Bobbie Gentry's hit No 1 hit "'I'll Never Fall In Love Again" comes from this show; Jack Hutton reviews.
- Clarke-Boland: The high-swinging Kenny Clarke-Francy Boland powerhouse toured to Ronni's department; eight-piece brass section repossessed the building.
- Ray Russell: At Ronnie Scott's Upstairs Room last Monday, the Ray Russell Quartet were delayed for more than an hour by Salena Jones; Ray also discussed his next quintet; Richard Williams.
- Montgomery: Marian Montgomery's musical comedy debut at the recently refurbished Bristol's Hippodrome this week before taking it to the Croydon Odeon; she moved with great ease through the period of pre-American '30s material; David Foot.
- Donegan: From the moment Lonnie Donegan appeared at London's Casbah on Wednesday, he presented a dazzling audience with a range of comedy, music and accents.
- The Raver's Weekly Tonic (column by Andy Fairweather-Low): Andy announces he has taken a brave step in splitting from the "highly successful Amen Corner" to play blues band and gain a new image; "Good luck Andy!" — alongside names P.P. Arnold and Jim Morris; lots of small gossip items: Guards, Boots, Naughty Amen Corner, Jiving K. Boots met Bert Brigg and Marvo the Magician, Boring, MM photo-journalist Valerie Witter; "Ray Charles' guards."
Advertisements:
- "fly on fat mattress 'naturally'" (Dolton 56352) — lower-right-page advertisement
- Winning film — Casino Cinerama Theatre, Old Compton Street: Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward, Robert Wagner; with screening times
Photos/Images:
- Portrait photo of Bert Jansch (caption: "JANSCH: huge applause")
- Portrait photo labelled "ANDERSON: 'We're lucky'"
Notes:
- Page header: "Page 6—MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969"
- Page is densely typeset with multiple short reviews and the gossip column running in narrow columns
Content type: Feature article / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- "Suddenly Tom is a very hot property" (by Karl Dallas): Profile of folk singer-songwriter Tom Paxton, who received a standing ovation at the Isle of Wight Festival. Dallas argues that Paxton is now virtually the only singer-songwriter of the old school still thriving, noting that Jac Holzman of Elektra signed him early and that he has never changed his style to chase trends. Paxton reflects on his audience and the growing willingness of rock fans to listen to good folk.
Advertisements:
- Savoy Brown: "A Step Further — Advance with the new album." Full-band photo, Decca SKL 5013 / LK 5013.
Photos/Images:
- Large close-up portrait of Tom Paxton (profile view), caption: "TOM PAXTON: 'I've tried to write songs for the market, but they never work.'"
- Band photo of Savoy Brown (in the ad, group posed casually together).
Notes:
- Page header confirms: MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969 — Page 7.
Content type: Jazz column / Feature articles / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- "Jazz Scene" column header
- "It's Clyne time": Extended profile of British bassist Jeff Clyne, written by Victor Schonfield (byline/photo top right). Covers Clyne's work with Ian Carr, Trevor Watts and John Stevens in a trio (1965), his involvement with the Spontaneous Music Ensemble, the Gordon Beck Trio, the Tony Oxley Quintet, the Keith Tippett Band, and his own "Springboard" album on Polydor (with Ian Carr, Trevor Watts, John Stevens). Discusses free improvisation, session work with Dudley Moore, Roy Budd, Salena Jones, Pat Smythe, and earlier work with Tubby Hayes and the Don Rendell–Ian Carr Group.
- "Ken Terroade: a name to watch": Profile of French-music-scene flautist and tenor saxophonist Ken Terroade, born in Jamaica (1944), who came to England with his parents at age 12. Discusses his associations with Archie Shepp, Grachan Moncur III, Jimmy Lyons, Sunny Murray, Dave Burrell; his work with the BYG record company in France; and his recent avant-garde concerts in London.
Advertisements:
- Bandmaster Harmonicas (Demusa G.m.b.H., DDR 9652 Klingenthal, German Democratic Republic): "The Mark of Quality." Features illustrations of the Bandmaster Chromatic and Vermona models.
Photos/Images:
- Small portrait of Jeff Clyne (top right of article), captioned "CLYNE: bassist much in demand."
- Small portrait of Victor Schonfield (contributing writer), top far right.
Notes:
- Page header: Page 8 — MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969.
Content type: Blues column / Feature article / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- "The Blues Page" (column header)
- "Those blues festival blues" (by Max Jones): Review/report on the '69 Folk Blues Festival at the Royal Albert Hall the previous Friday. Critical of organisational faults and amplification problems. Covers performances by: Weldon "Juke Boy" Bonner (one-man-band set, described as country-style but amiable), Clifton Chenier's Zydeco group (rambling piano, heavy foot-beats), Little John Jackson (showmanship, harmonica, songs include "Off The Hook," "Baby What You Want Me To Do," "Rocking With Chromatic"), Carrey Bell (bass guitar and string bass), and Whistlin' Alex Moore (Chicago blues pianist/singer from Mississippi, mentioned as playing dance and folk tunes). The Magic Sam tribute is also referenced — Sam Maghett shown impressing with his cool command on vocals/guitar.
Advertisements:
- The Doors: "The Soft Parade" (Elektra EKS 75005) — "Here's a little something to relax your mind." Includes album cover image.
- Love: "Four Sail" (Elektra EKS 74049) — same Elektra ad, tagline: "Sorry it's taken so long to bring you these new albums … think how long it takes a tree to grow!"
Photos/Images:
- Three portrait photos across the top of the article, captioned: LITTLE JOHN JACKSON, CARREY BELL, WHISTLIN' ALEX MOORE.
- Album cover image of The Doors "The Soft Parade."
Notes:
- Page header: MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969 — Page 9.
- The '69 Folk Blues Festival featured predominantly American blues artists from Chicago and Gulf Coast/Louisiana traditions.
Content type: Feature articles / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- "...but the Bopping Imp keeps bopping" (by Chris Welch): Reports on the Tyrannosaurus Rex split, with Steve Peregrine Took departing after their US tour. Marc Bolan (the "Bopping Imp") intends to continue, explaining the split was mutual and that he wants to move in a heavier direction. Bolan discusses his plans for a new album and a complete tour of America.
- "Taste — one of the few to survive the boom" (by Royston Eldridge): Examines how the blues boom of the late 1960s has faded, with most bands having died off. Highlights Taste, a trio formed in 1968 by guitarist Rory Gallagher (quoted: "the boom hasn't gone, it's just matured"), as one of the bands that has survived and matured. Discusses their approach to improvised, jazz-influenced blues and their touring in the US and UK.
Advertisements:
- CBS Records: New Singles — The Spiral Staircase ("No One For Me To Turn To", 4524), Sue & Sunny ("Let Us Break Bread", 4567), Rainbows ("New Day Dawning", 4568), Norman Wisdom ("Where Do I Go From Here?", 4569), Duster Bennett ("I'm Gonna Wind Up Ending Up or I'm Gonna End Up Winding Up With You", 57-3164 Blue Horizon). New Albums — Alan Tew "The Magnificent Westerns" (S63732), Vic Lewis "The Beatles My Way" (S6-63723 Nems), Chicken Shack "100 Ton Chicken" (S7-63218 Blue Horizon). CBS Records, 28/30 Theobalds Road, London WC1.
- Shaftesbury Fuzz/Squall Pedal (model 2017): advertised via Rose-Morris & Co. Ltd, 32-34 Garden House Road, London N.W.5. Two products: Squall Pedal (£12.10.0) and Duo Fuzz Pedal (£17.19.6).
- Soundsetter Flute Mike / Ken Tootell Instruments, 103 Evans, 273 County Match Lane, London N.W.7.
Photos/Images:
- Marc Bolan: seated, holding guitar, with caption "We decided to split before we left for America."
- Rory Gallagher: energetic live performance shot, captioned "the boom hasn't gone, it's just matured."
Notes:
- Page continues the T. Rex / Marc Bolan coverage from earlier pages; headline plays on Bolan's "Bopping Imp" nickname.
- The Taste feature signals a shift in the blues coverage towards bands with more jazz and improvisational leanings.
Content type: Feature article / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- "Satchmo '69 — Part Three: 'Never get too big for your britches'" (by Alan Walsh): Third instalment of a series on Louis Armstrong, at 69 years old. Conducted at his home in Corona, Long Island, New York. Armstrong reflects on his humble origins in New Orleans, how music became his life from a very young age (receiveing a drum from a reform institution at around 12), his time in Oliver's little brass band, and his philosophy of keeping grounded — "never get too big for your britches." He discusses his Las Vegas season, and his deep love of playing music.
Advertisements:
- Rotosound strings: promoting their pedal steel guitar, says it was played by Pete Walsher, Manager of the Rotosound Showroom. Address: 22 Denmark Street, London W.C.2.
- The Pentangle "Basket of Light" (TRA 205, Transatlantic): Full-page ad for the new LP. Includes autumn UK tour dates:
- Friday 10 October — Glasgow City Hall
- Saturday 11 October — Edinburgh Usher Hall
- Tuesday 14 October — Leeds Town Hall
- Friday 17 October — Brighton Dome
- Saturday 18 October — Manchester Free Trade Hall
- Sunday 19 October — Bristol Coulston Hall
- Personal Manager: Jo Lustig, P.O. Box 472, London SW7
Photos/Images:
- Large photo of Louis Armstrong playing trumpet, occupying roughly the upper half of the left column of the page.
Notes:
- The Pentangle tour ad confirms this is Transatlantic Records and the "Where Trends Begin" tagline. Tour dates are very close to the magazine's publication date (11 October 1969).
Content type: Feature articles / Competition / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- "Melody Maker Search — to find the new stars on the college scene": Launch of a major MM initiative, sponsored jointly by Melody Maker and College Entertainments, to identify the most popular group or solo artist among Britain's 700+ major colleges. College social secretaries are asked to name their favourite group/artist and enter via the College Entry Form printed on the page (post to John Tobin, College Entertainments, 6A Archer Street, London W.1; enquiries: Ger 1001 Reg 8555/6/7). Ten finalists will play a grand final at a major London venue. Prize money: 1st £100, 2nd £75, 3rd £50, plus £25 each to seven runners-up (total £400 shared). Entries close Monday 20 October.
- "Chris Welch visits a typical gig...": Welch attends a Friday-night student dance at Catford Secondary School (organised by LCC and PT master Victor Silveston). Two groups performed: Andromeda (featuring John Cann on guitar/vocals, Mick Hawksworth on bass, and Stanley Aldiss on drums) and Aardvark (consisting of Steve Milliner on organ, Frank Clark on drums, and Dave Skillin on vocals). Welch reflects on the role of the college dance circuit and its importance for developing new audiences for jazz and blues-oriented music.
Advertisements:
- Jackie De Shannon — "Put a Little Love in Your Heart" (Liberty LBF-15238): Large ad noting she has sold 1,400,000 copies in America and has been flown to England to record the song. Tagline: "There isn't another record to compare with the ORIGINAL million selling version of 'Put a Little Love in Your Heart' by Jackie De Shannon."
- Shure microphone ad: Promotes the Shure Unisphere or Unidyne microphone. Copy urges professionals not to use an inferior mic. Address: Shore Electronics Ltd, 84 Blackfriars Road, London S.E.1.
Photos/Images:
- Jackie De Shannon: small promotional photo at the bottom left of the page.
- Crowd photo: large image of a concert audience (used to illustrate the college scene feature).
Notes:
- The "Melody Maker Search" competition is a significant editorial initiative, indicating the magazine's growing interest in the college circuit as a talent pipeline.
- Andromeda and Aardvark mentioned as college circuit acts; Andromeda are a recognisable progressive rock band of the era.
Content type: Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- N/A
Advertisements:
- Philips "Great Cassette Game" — full-page advertisement promoting a £5,000 competition. Three Ford Capri 1600 GT XLR cars to be won, plus a holiday for two on the Isle of Capri and Philips cassette equipment. 100 runners-up prizes of cassette equipment. Coupon to fill in and send to Philips, 18-20 St. Andrew Street, London EC4. Showcases a range of Philips cassette products: Cassette recorder RR482 with FM/AM Radio, Cassette recorder RR290 with MW/LW Radio, Mains Battery Cassette Recorder N2205, Car Stereo Cassette Player N2602, Cassette Car Radio RN582, Mains Stereo Autochanger N2502, Mains Stereo Cassette Recorder EL3312. Special offer: 3 LP Musicassettes for 47/6 when purchasing any Philips Cassette Recorder or Playback machine.
Photos/Images:
- Image of a Ford Capri car featured on the competition booklet inset.
- Product photographs of all Philips cassette devices listed above.
Notes:
- Page header: "MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969 — Page 13"
Content type: Jazz Feature / Jazz Festival Report
Headlines/Articles:
- "jazz scene" (section header, column 2)
- "Rendell on the big break...": Short item on Don Rendell, noting the quintet is on the verge of breaking up and discussing the difficulty of sustaining a jazz band. Mentions gigs at jazz clubs and the band's personnel including Derek Langridge and Bobby Coleman.
- "Close-up on two names in the Ray Charles band — Hot Coles / Roving Coker": Two-part feature by Richard Williams profiling trombonists Johnny Coles and Henry Coker, both members of the Ray Charles Orchestra. Coles describes his background — born in Trenton, New Jersey, his early holiday school experience, first trumpet for Christmas at age 12, playing with Philadelphia musicians, and eventually joining Ray Charles. He discusses his admiration for Miles Davis and Gil Evans. Henry Coker is described as a well-respected Texas trombonist who has been with Ray Charles since 1966.
- "Monterey Jazz Festival Report": Detailed multi-day report on the 12th Monterey Jazz Festival, covering Friday, Saturday afternoon, Saturday evening, and Sunday sessions. Mentions performances by: the Bryant orchestra, Thelonious Monk, the Third Stream Ensemble (featuring violin and strings), Dale Fraser conducting Young's Concerto for Trumpet with an African-American rhythm section, Maynard Ferguson's Roarin' Big Band with Pete King. Sarah Vaughan, Cannonball Adderley, and Count Basie also featured. Reporter notes Ellington orchestra was present. By Leonard Feather.
- "Are your manners working class?" — small advertisement for Mirror Magazine (free with the Daily Mirror).
Advertisements:
- Mirror Magazine subscription/copy reminder at the bottom of the page.
- Sound City Strings advertisement (bottom right).
Photos/Images:
- "JOHNNY asleep at school" — photo of Johnny Coles, a young Black man.
- "HENRY silvery tone" — photo of Henry Coker.
Notes:
- Byline on jazz features: Richard Williams (Coles/Coker profile) and Leonard Feather (Monterey report).
- Page header: "Page 14 — MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969"
Content type: Feature Articles / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- "Fat Mattress have come a long way since Frankfurt": Feature by Richard Williams on Fat Mattress, the group formed around former Jimi Hendrix Experience bassist Noel Redding. Profiles the band — Noel Redding (bass, ex-Hendrix Experience), Neil Landon (singer), James Leverton (bass), Eric Dillon (drums). Discusses their origins playing in Germany, Noel's decision to leave the Experience in Denver, the Albert Hall concert with Hendrix, a 21-date US tour opening for Hendrix, and their plans for another American tour in six weeks. New single "Naturally" just out; second album due after Christmas. Eric Dillon and James Leverton are revealed as former members of Engelbert Humperdinck's backing group. Noel stresses the band is a co-operative with no leader.
- "A very original Audience": Feature on the group Audience — guitarist/singer Howard Werth (22, Hackney), reedman Keith Gemmell (21, Hackney), bass player Trevor Williams (24, Hereford), and drummer Tony Connor (22, Romford). Describes their original sound blending Screaming Jay Hawkins and Mozart influences. They cover "I Put A Spell On You" (Hawkins) and a Mozart clarinet concerto; all other material is original. Notes the group has a debut album coming out, and discusses their unconventional approach to songwriting and stage presentation.
Advertisements:
- Rosetti "Right up the scale" — full-width comic strip–style advertisement for clarinets and saxes (e.g. Buffet-Crampon brand), brass and woodwind instruments. Rosetti, The House of Music, 138 Old Street, London EC1.
Photos/Images:
- Large portrait photo of Noel Redding playing bass guitar, with caption "'I want the rest of the group to be as well known as I am.'"
- Small group photo of Audience, captioned "AUDIENCE: offers for film scores."
Notes:
- Both features are by Richard Williams.
- Fat Mattress article confirms Redding produced the band's album himself, using skills learned with Hendrix.
- Page header: "MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969 — Page 15"
Content type: Feature article (Part 1 of 2)
Headlines/Articles:
- "An Exclusive Two-Part Series — Spector On Pop Today, Part One": In-depth interview with Phil Spector marking his return to record production after two years of semi-retirement. Spector discusses why he came back ("I was getting very bored with what I heard on the radio"), changes in the industry, his "Wall of Sound" philosophy, the commercial vs. artistic tension in pop, and his forthcoming album on A&M with the Checkmates Ltd (his first LP in three years, released in Britain the following day). He discusses working with arranger Dee Barton, the importance of "total sound," and recounts the story behind "River Deep, Mountain High" with Ike and Tina Turner.
Advertisements:
- Liberty Records full-page ad for "Son of Gutbucket" — a Liberty sampler album featuring 17 tracks for 17/6. Artists listed: Creedence Clearwater Revival, Jo-Ann Kelly, Johnny Winter, Roy Harper, Canned Heat, The Groundhogs, The Idle Race, Aynsley Dunbar Retaliation, The Famous Jug Band & Many Others. Strapline: "Got yours yet?"
Photos/Images:
- Large photograph of Ike and Tina Turner (captioned "IKE AND TINA TURNER"), positioned beside the Phil Spector interview text. Large display lettering "SPECTOR ON POP TODAY PART ONE" runs prominently on the right side.
Notes:
- Article references that part two will appear next week (Dylan and Presley teaser also visible at bottom of page 17).
- Review of the Checkmates Ltd A&M album appears elsewhere in the issue.
Content type: Column / Singles reviews
Headlines/Articles:
- "By Pete Senoff" (left column): Interview with an unnamed American musician (context from OCR suggests it relates to discussions of English music audiences, soul, and the "black music" influence on British artists). Topics covered include Joe Cocker, the English relationship with blues/soul, the concept of "slavery" as a basis for soul authenticity, and comments on artists including Creedence Clearwater Revival.
- "Christine Perfect reviews the latest sounds in Blind Date" (main column): Christine Perfect (Fleetwood Mac) gives anonymous-listen reactions to new singles. Records reviewed:
- Dionne Warwick: "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling" (Pye) — Christine praises her voice ("Jhh-what a voice") but doubts it'll chart given it's already been a hit; predicts it "could well be a hit."
- David Essex: "The Day The Earth Stood Still" (Decca) — Sounds like Barry Ryan; commercial but uncertain about chart potential; "quite a good voice."
- Sam Apple Pie: "Hawk" from LP "Sam Apple Pie" (Decca) — Sounds like a Humble Pie-type record; not awfully well recorded; doesn't like it very much.
- Fleetwood Mac: "Coming Your Way" from "Then Play On" (Reprise) — Best album available today, way ahead of its time. Praises Danny Kirwan's guitar work; calls it "brilliant" though only one thing she doesn't like.
- Ten Years After: Tracks from album (Deram) — Better than what they did before; Lee is a great guitarist; not representative of the band's best.
- Bulldog Breed: "Portcuellis Gate" (Deram) — Strange sound, about 10,000 guitars; tinny bass; doesn't hate it but doesn't like it; "not let up for a minute."
- Mireille Mathieu: "Hold Me" (Columbia) — French singer, beautiful person; wouldn't surprise her if it was a hit given her John Davidson TV show profile.
- Jimmy Cliff: "Wonderful World, Beautiful People" (Trojan) — Likes it; "a bit of ska"; nice production with violin; predicts it a hit especially on the ska chart.
- Sue and Sonny: "Let Us Break Bread" (CBS) — Lovely recording; nice piano and strings; like an English gospel tune; thinks it must stand a good chance.
- Babylon: "Into The Promised Land" (Polydor) — Quite ordinary; nothing special; pleasant.
- George Howe: "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" (MCA) — One of the Beatles' Abbey Road tracks; gets impression the Beatles spent hours reducing but it doesn't sound as if much has gone into this version; "Beatles stands a good chance of being a hit."
- John and Anne Ryder Congregation: "Hold On" — Starts pleasantly; not very original; doesn't think it stands a chance.
- [Additional reviews partially visible, including Johnny Nash: "Love Me Tender" (Major Minor)]
Advertisements:
- Small ad: "Next Week — Spector on Dylan and Presley" (teaser for Part Two of the Spector series).
- Small ads at foot of page for various EMI/Motown/Stateside releases including Junior Walker & The All Stars "What Does It Take" (Tamla Motown TMG 712); Smith "Baby It's You" (Stateside SS 8025); Mama Cass album (Columbia); and British Motown/Chartbusters compilation.
Photos/Images:
- Illustrated caricature/portrait of Christine Perfect by "Shirley" (signed).
Notes:
- Pete Senoff column is a lengthy interview; the interviewee name is not clearly visible in the image but the discussion is highly informed about American music.
Content type: Album reviews
Headlines/Articles:
- "New Pop Albums" — "Ray's finest hour!" — Full page of new album reviews. The headline refers to the Kinks album. Reviews include:
- Kinks: "Arthur, Or The Decline And Fall Of The British Empire" (Pye) — Described as Ray Davies' finest hour; consolidates his talent as songwriter in collaboration with Julian Mitchell; beautifully British; story of a yesteryear generation informed by post-war experience and the lure of emigration. Songs include "Victoria," a parody of Bernstein's "America" called "Australia," and "Mr. Churchill Says." Highly praised; "The songs are great."
- Van Morrison: "Astral Weeks" (Warner Bros.) — After a period of inactivity; listeners will find themselves in sympathy and understanding; Van pits his harsh voice against an intricate backing combination; includes flute, strings, guitar, string bass and drums. Tracks include "Madame George," "Slim Slow Slider," "Cyprus Avenue," "The Way Young Lovers Do," "Ballerina," "Beside You," "Sweet Thing," and "Astral Weeks." Lasts nearly ten minutes and builds to "Metamorphosis Exploration." Songs are great.
- Frank Sinatra: "A Man Alone" (Warner/Reprise) — Rod McKuen wrote all the songs; Sinatra sings beautifully; songs are beautiful; late-night album; praised for being different from recent Sinatra albums; includes a great song called "Town" and the title track.
- Bobbie Gentry: "Touch 'Em With Love" (Capitol) — Sounds remarkably like Dusty Springfield at times; contains "I'll Never Fall In Love Again" and Webb's "Where's The Playground Susie" and "Greyhound Goin' Somewhere."
- Country Joe and the Fish: "Here We Are Again" (Vanguard) — Has been attacked by "underground" reviewers as a sellout; the touch of brass is commercial; the group's harmony work is excellent; material reminiscent of some of the things the Beatles did a little while ago including "Going Home" and "Come With Me"; very Beatle flavoured. Not two brilliant albums but still good music.
- Mama Cass: "Bubble Gum, Lemonade and Something For Mama" (Stateside) — Well-produced album; excellent musicians; songs like "It's Getting Better," "Move In A Little Closer," and "Who's To Blame"; leaves a lot to be desired; her voice is not particularly good.
- Lulu's Album (Columbia) — Exceptionally well-produced; one of Lulu's very best; the chance to hear tunes like "Show Me," "My Ain Folk," "Why Did I Choose You," and "A House Is Not A Home"; shows she can sing; fine voice; strong arrangements; Paul Jones and Johnny Harris are great.
- Steve Miller Band: "Brave New World" (Capitol) — One of the best American rock/blues bands; even better than their last two albums; fairly straight-ahead rock; well played and superbly recorded by Glyn Johns; "Space Cowboy" is a really interesting hook-chorus; "I Got Love 'Cause You Gave It" is a fast R&B number with digits on the nearest available surface; very good.
- Fat Mattress: "Fat Mattress" (Polydor) — Rather than outstanding; various combinations of well-known Neil Landon and James Leverton songs, backed most prominently by those gentlemen (drummer Eddie Dillon); best tracks are pretty ("Walking Through A Garden") but they're not outstanding.
- Deviants: "Deviants" (Transatlantic) — Mick Farren is a nice guy with some good ideas but the band has trouble getting them across in original form; reminiscent of the Mothers and the Fugs; some instrumental work is quite good particularly Paul Rudolph's guitar; includes "Death Of A Machine," "Black Sulk," "Metamorphosis Exploration"; quite irrelevant.
- Forest (Harvest) — Nice pastoral album; a sort of group who sound great in the open on a warm summer's day; traces of the Incredible String Band; Forest play and sing with more energy than most of that genre; Martin Welham, Derek Blanley and Adrian Welham play an assortment of string instruments, keyboards, percussion, and woodwind; pleasing rhythms; nice, unaggressive music.
- Linn County: "Fever Shot" (Mercury) — Good solid stuff from a competent jazzy American band; strong drums and guitar; feature some fair assertive piano from Larry Easter and Jay Mago; singles like the title track "Can't Help It" and "Lonely Avenue."
- Crazy Elephant (Major Minor) — Lightweight but fairly pleasant bubblegum album; "Gimme Gimme Good Loving" and "Sunshine Red Wine" are way out of their depth; try to give the Vanilla Fudge treatment to Otis Redding's "Respect" and Bernstein's "Somewhere"; for younger kids.
- Bread, Love and Dreams (Decca) — Promising pop-folk group betrayed by over-production; the strength and simplicity of the songs on the album are often swept away by sweeping strings and multitracking.
- The Charlatans (Philips) — Difficult to take the group seriously given the name; even more difficult when you hear the music, which consists of boring instrumental work, derivative vocals and dreadful harmonies; the songs are shapeless and the arrangements are a mess; the Charlatans are a long-standing San Francisco group who fall, singer for singer, into a vague country-rock bag; hard to have any feeling for "country-rock Somewhere" instead.
- Randy Burns: "Evening Of The Magician" (Fontana ESP-Disk) — Singer-songwriter/guitarist; good at this time; so many of these guys around that they are difficult to separate; their albums are pleasant if derivative; Burns has some talent; someone, somewhere, will hold him in the kind of reverence many people reserve for Leonard Cohen.
- Chuck Berry: "Concerto In B Goode" (Mercury) — The first side of this album is taken up with "Good Looking Woman," "My Woman," "It's Too Dark In There," and "Put Her Down." The second side is a remarkable instrumental version of "Concerto In B Goode" which lasts for over 18 minutes and which is described as a "blues rock concerto." Chuck's guitar playing is a delight; Berry fans should not miss this at any cost.
- Bakerloo (Harvest) — Excelled up through the British blues scene; Bakerloo's Dave Clempson is one of them and stands out as the standout feature of the LP; he also plays harmonica as well as playing piano, bass; "Drivin' Backwards" based on a piece by Bach; romps along; has Jerry Salisbury's trumpet filling out the guitar-harpsichord sound; not at all a bad album.
- Jerry Lee Lewis: "Sings The Country Music Hall Of Fame Hits Vols. 1 and 2" (Mercury) — The gauvour; gorgeous Jerry Lee rocking along with this stupendous voice and wild piano; look out for his duets with his sister Linda Gail Lewis; they are a gas; Jerry Lee is one of the pop singers of our time and both these albums are highly recommended. Titles include "Wonder Where You Are Tonight," "Jambalaya," "I Can Dream," "I Love You Because," "Jackting" [sic], "I Can't Stop Loving You," and "He'll Have To Go."
Advertisements:
- Pete Brown and Piblokto: "Living Life Backwards — The High Flying Electric Bird" — EMI Harvest HAR 5008
- Big Bear Records announces Tea & Symphony Locomotive and Black Sabbath joining the label; contact 021-454 7020, management Tony Hall Enterprises. (Note: teaser "What is Peter Sarsted doing with Rudolph Valentino?" also appears.)
- John Mayall's: "Don't Waste My Time" — first single from Polydor, catalogue number 56344.
Photos/Images:
- Photo of Ray Davies (captioned "RAY DAVIES: British to the core") — large portrait used as anchor image for the "Ray's finest hour!" headline, depicting Ray in what appears to be a studio or performance setting.
Notes:
- This is a particularly rich reviews page covering a wide range of styles from bubblegum to blues, folk to country, and progressive rock to pop. The Kinks and Van Morrison reviews are especially enthusiastic.
- The Black Sabbath ad is notable as an early industry announcement for the band.
Content type: Singles reviews column / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- Mayall's cheerful ditty: "New Pop Singles by Chris Welch" column reviews John Mayall's "Don't Waste My Time" (Polydor) as a "must hit" — a cheerful country ditty featuring Jon Mark's acoustic guitar, described as appealing to Whoopster Set members. Other singles reviewed include:
- Simon Scott: "Brave New World" (Polydor)
- Hot Chocolate Band: "Give Peace A Chance"
- Peter Sarstedt: "As Though It Were A Movie" (Decca) — "clever production"
- Slade: "Wild Winds Are Blowing" (Fontana)
- Marv Johnson: "I Miss You (I Miss You Baby)" (Tamla Motown)
- Jr. Walker and the All-Stars: "What Does It Take (To Win Your Love)" (Tamla Motown) — "love in brackets"
- Erma Franklin: "Don't Wait Too Long" (Soul City) — "rock and swing"
- Trash: "Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight" (Apple)
- Bread: "Dismay Day" (Elektra)
- Jeremy Spencer: "Linda" (Reprise) — Buddy Holly revival, described as involving John McVie and Mick Fleetwood
- Babylon: "Into The Promised Land" (Polydor)
- Casuals: "Caroline" (Decca)
- Neil MacArthur: "It's Not Easy" (Deram)
- Dave Clark: "Put A Little Love In Your Heart" (Columbia)
- Glen Campbell: "Dreams Of The Everyday Housewife" (Ember) — "dreadfully meaningful"
- Jo Tex: "We Can't Sit Down Now" (Atlantic)
Advertisements:
- Large advertisement for Music Business Weekly "Complete Charts Guide" — offering a free Charts Display Board (worth 25/-) to readers who take a year's subscription. Includes subscription coupon addressed to Music Business Weekly, IPC Business Press, 40 Bowling Green Lane, London EC1.
Photos/Images:
- Portrait of Chris Welch (column author)
- Small head-and-shoulders photos of: Mayall ("must hit"), Sarstedt ("clever production"), Walker ("love in brackets"), Erma ("rock and swing"), Campbell ("dreadfully meaningful")
Notes:
- Page header: Melody Maker, October 11, 1969 — Page 19
Content type: Jazz reviews
Headlines/Articles:
- Outstanding Amalgam: Review of Amalgam's LP Prayer For Peace (Atlantic TRA 196), credited to reviewer R.W. (Richard Williams). Personnel includes Trevor Watts (alto), Jeff Clyne (bass), John Stevens (drs), Barry Guy (bass). Recorded London, May 20, 1969. Described as rooted in conventional melodic development, compared favourably to SME (Spontaneous Music Ensemble), of which Amalgam is the "brother group."
- Edmond Hall: Review of a reissue (originally on Commodore, reissued on Ace of Hearts) of small-band jazz with Dixieland feel. Tracks include "Downtown," "Show Piece," and others. Reviewed by Emmett Barry. Positive but notes more striking recordings exist.
- Jimmy Witherspoon: Review of a Witherspoon album with Jay McShane's band. Tracks include "Getting Cheaper," "Spoon Calls Hootie," "Ain't Nobody's Business," "Take 4 and Take 2," "Jumpin' With Louis," "Backwater Blues." Reviewed by M.J. (Max Jones). Notes Witherspoon was 24 when the earliest tracks were made (November '47). Some criticism for lack of originality.
- Don Ellis: Review of The New Don Ellis Band Goes Underground (Liberty). Personnel listed includes Lonnie Shetter, Sam Falzona, Hadley Caliman, Mike Altschul (reeds), Pete Robinson (keyboards), Carol Kaye (bass), Ralph Humphrey, Rick Quintinal (drs/perc), Patti Allen (vocals). Reviewed by M.J.
- Marion Williams: Brief review of a pop-spiritual album. Marion Williams described as a "fabulously soulful singer." Includes tracks mentioned: "People Got To Be Free," "To Live The Life I Sing." Gospel and traditional material alongside pop.
- Peterson: Five-album review of the Oscar Peterson Trio, which features Ray Brown on bass and Ed Thigpen (drs). LP "Eloquence" (Mercury SMWL21046) highlighted.
Advertisements:
- "He's DONE it again!" — Elektra Records ad for Tom Paxton: The Things I Notice Now (EKS 74043) and Morning Again (EKS 74019). Notes coverage in Evening News, September 27 1969.
- British Drummers' Association — small recruitment notice with address form.
- Everplay Extra plastic drum heads — small advertisement.
Photos/Images:
- Photo of Charlie Watts captioned "WATTS: beautiful alto"
- Photo of Jimmy Witherspoon captioned "JIMMY WITHERSPOON Spoon Calls Hootie. Still."
- Photo of a musician captioned "PETERSON: five album."
Notes:
- Page header: Page 20 — Melody Maker, October 11, 1969
- Jazz section masthead lists reviewers: Bob Dawbarn, Jack Hutton, Max Jones, Richard Williams
Content type: Feature article / Reader Q&A column / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- Feliciano campaigns for more rock on radio: Feature by Richard Williams. José Feliciano, introduced to the Controller of BBC Radio Two, told him: "You know you British should do something about your radio stations — you've gotta have more rock and roll!" The article covers his London visit for concert and TV performances, his views on the BBC ("they cater for the adults but forget the kids"), his forthcoming British album release titled "10 to 23," and his favourite composers: Paul Simon, Lennon & McCartney, and Dylan. He references songs on the album including "Hey Jude," "Windmills Of Your Mind," and "Miss Otis Regrets."
- Changing from piano to organ (Expert Advice by Chris Hayes): Reader Q&A column. Topics include: differences between piano and organ technique (sustained notes, pedals, chord voicing); information about a Moroccan instrument resembling a twin-clarinet played by snake charmers (described as a "double-pipe" instrument); and advice on bass guitar learning, fingering practice, and how to advance along the fretboard.
Advertisements:
- Tom Paxton — "Me and my music … close-up on a gentle giant of folk" — promotional ad for Disc and Music Echo, available now.
- "Next Week" panel: Stereo Supplement features Fleetwood Mac, Jack Bruce, Nancy Wilson (next week).
Photos/Images:
- Large portrait photograph of José Feliciano wearing sunglasses, captioned: "JOSE FELICIANO: 'The BBC ought to have a rock and roll station'"
Notes:
- Page header: Melody Maker, October 11, 1969 — Page 21
Content type: Feature article / News / Listings / Ads
Headlines/Articles:
- David Bowie — "Space Oddity": A full-column piece on David Bowie, described as a good-looking young songwriter, singer and mime artist. Notes his years floating around the scene, his background with a group called the Buzz, and his eventual breakthrough with single "Space Oddity" entering the MM Pop 30. Bowie reflects on not wanting to make records and spending a year and a half on mime before this "comeback." Article is attributed to Chris Welch.
- A Mixture of Dali, 2001 and the Bee Gees: A column (byline: Chris Welch) discussing the arts lab movement — folk clubs, arts labs in places like Green Bell and Drury Lane — mixing pacifism, youth culture, and community concepts. Notes Peter Frampton and friends from Beckenham attending as examples.
- Commissar Bond is back in business (by Chris Welch): Feature article on Graham Bond, described as the legendary father figure of the British group scene. He has returned from America with a new band of young unknowns, rehearsing in Cambridge. Bond formed a group in Switzerland called Joint, then later the Organisation. The article traces his career through the early 1960s R&B scene. His new band includes Keith Bailey (drums), Dave Howard on alto and sitar, Dave Usher (flute, trumpet, bass guitar, lead guitar, clarinet), Pete Sheen (congas, tabla, drums), plus guitar and percussion, and Diane Stewart (vocals and dancing).
Advertisements:
- Dealers & Bargains: Regional music instrument dealers listed (Scotland: Biggars of Glasgow; Northern England: J.P. Dias, C. Jeavons; Midlands: Kay Westworths Birmingham; Southern England: Lyon & Hall Ltd, Brighton; N. Ireland: Crymbles, Belfast). "This Week's Bargains" box listing specific instruments with prices from London dealers (Rickenbacker £75, Burns 6-string bass £60, Guild Jumbo £85, Fender Stratocaster £100, etc.).
- Royal Albert Hall concert: Graham Bond Initiation with Jack Bruce, Pete Brown, Ginger Johnson's African Drums. Friday October 17, 7.30pm. Tickets 7/6 to 30/-. Presented by General Manager Frank J. Mundy.
Photos/Images:
- Photo of David Bowie captioned "BOWIE: casual attitude" — close-up portrait.
- Photo of Graham Bond captioned "GRAHAM BOND: Made his name in the early sixties" — close-up portrait.
Notes:
- Radio Jazz BBC listings column covering Friday 10 through Thursday 16 October, listing jazz programmes on BBC 1, BBC 2, BBC 3, NDR Hamburg, AFN, HR Frankfurt, VOA, Radio Bremen, and Radio Eireann.
- The Dealers & Bargains section takes up most of the lower half of the page.
Content type: Letters / Ads
Headlines/Articles:
- Mailbag (letters column, contact: 161 Fleet Street, E.C.4): "Soul is Dead" — a prominent headline introducing a long letter from Alan Paine, Hillington, Middx, arguing that soul music is commercially dead. He contends companies like Tamla and Stax watered down the form to reach white kids in dance halls, and laments that since Otis Redding's death the industry lost interest. He praises Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross.
- Welcome (letter from B.R. Nevill, Croydon, Surrey): Congratulates Fairport Convention for a memorable performance. Notes they've had problems yet overcome them.
- Beatles (letter from Peter Billam, East Molesey, Surrey): Notes interest in seeing Mick Jagger thinks King Crimson's music is sterile compared to the Beatles. Objects to No Wonder He Wears His Hair That Way.
- George Harrison (letter from S.H. Carles-ton, Cambridge): Praises George Harrison's compositions on Abbey Road as two of the best on the album, particularly Jon Lord's. Argues the concerto work shows ability to bridge pop and symphony orchestra.
- Now… give us Cohen! (letter from Alan Hibbert, Oxford): Calls for Leonard Cohen to be brought in for a concert. Notes Cohen was fifth in the MM international singer section of the MM Poll; only Dylan is ranked higher. Argues Cohen is the only artist who could follow Dylan.
- Various other letters: Richard Artus (Kenton, Middlesex) on Pete Townshend as copycat; J. Barnacle (Kenton, Middlesex) on BBC anti-jazz bias; Robert Baldwin (Hounslow, Middlesex) on George Harrison; Andrew Beale (Edinburgh) on George Harrison and Pink Floyd; E. Breeze (Ashford, Kent) on the BBC.
- Television column (no byline visible): Discusses BBC's Colour Pop programme and coverage of underground/new groups. Questions whether BBC or ITV will film Bob Dylan's Isle of Wight appearance. Notes "Cash in Quentin," "Stones of What" and other programmes.
Advertisements:
- Groundhogs: Full-width ad at the bottom of the page promoting their album "Blues Obituary" and "a sensational single B.D.D." on Liberty Records (LBF 15263).
- Come to Berlin with the MM: Box ad for Melody Maker's Berlin Jazz Festival trip, November 7, 8 and 9. Featuring Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Lionel Hampton, Miles Davis, Sarah Vaughan, and other top jazz stars. Details: £27 guineas including two nights, travel, breakfast and concert tickets. Coach from London, fly from Luton on Friday November 7. Contact Melody Maker, pages 221–223, Belgravia 4Gte, Leicester.
- Headmaster Plastic Drum Heads by Rose-Morris: Small ad with tagline "Hit Me! Kiss Me! Murder Me!" — promotes impervious, temperature-resistant drum heads that require no constant reskinning.
Photos/Images:
- Large photo of a performer (likely Otis Redding or a generic soul performer) accompanying the "Soul is Dead" headline — a silhouetted stage shot showing a singer at a microphone with arms outstretched.
Notes:
- The Groundhogs advertisement takes up approximately the bottom third of the page.
Content type: Folk news / Folk listings / Ads
Headlines/Articles:
- Folk News — High Level Ranters in London Festival: Feature on the High Level Ranters, a Northumbrian folk group making rare visits to the South for the twelfth London Folk Music Festival at Cecil Sharp House, November 17, 18 and 19. Eddie & Finbar Fury and John Foreman are listed as other participants. Dave is described as a resident of the Friday night folk club at the Bull & Star, Putney, with Peter Darling, Brian Keeble, Kenneth Goddard, and Trevor Crozier. Their new group also appeared at St. George's Hall, Bradford, Saturday October 17.
- Folk News — Country Hosts: Column by Wally Whyton discussing conservation song "Leave Them A Flower," recorded by Ed Ames. Notes Settlers and Magna Carta as guests at CMF. Expresses concern that folk people are being pushed out by BBC treating them as minority tastes.
- Folk News — Arlo Guthrie: Notes Arlo's third album "Running Down The Road" is already out in America and promises to beat the success of his two previous albums. Film "Alice's Restaurant" (directed by Arthur Penn & Bonnie and Clyde director) touches on Arlo's marriage, Alice's death, and the film's title song.
- Karl Dallas column (small portrait photo): Commentary, likely the regular folk column by Karl Dallas.
Advertisements:
- Queen Elizabeth Hall: Al Stewart concert, Saturday 18th October, 7.45pm. Presented by Ray Guest and Vic Lewis. Tickets 7/6 to 30/-. Box office Royal Festival Hall, SE1.
- Ravi Shankar sitar: Four recitals of Indian music at Royal Festival Hall October 17, 21, 22 (morning raga) and Town Hall Birmingham October 20, other dates. Promoted by Douglas Limited, 8 St. George's Terrace, London W1.
- Mike Cooper: "Oh Really" new album on Pye Records. Enquiries: 30 Elden Road, Reading RG1 4DL.
- Sporting Record's Week-End Winners (Red Letter Service): Weekly jackpot competition ad.
- Picato Strings / General Music Strings Ltd: New nylon strings for flamenco and classical guitar. All six strings wound; Picato No. 769, 41/4 per set, inc. P&T.
Photos/Images:
- Group photograph of the High Level Ranters captioned "HIGH LEVEL RANTERS: making a rare visit to the South" — four or five men in a posed outdoor or studio shot.
- Small portrait of Karl Dallas accompanying his column.
Notes:
- Folk Forum section takes up the right-hand two thirds of the page — a comprehensive weekly folk venue listings guide organised by day (Thursday through Wednesday) and region. Venues include: Fox Islington (Johnny Silvo); Folk Centre Hammersmith (The Hammerfolk); Maria Grey College (Marcellington); Contemporary Folk Club Nigs Head North Street (Bridget St. John and Lever); Bull and Star Putney (Bearded Oyster); Cousins 49 Greek Street (Bridget St. John, John James); Abbey Wood FC (Mike Absalom); and many more across London and the regions, including Stefan Grossman, Duffy Power, Sam Mitchell, Sadsong, Michael Porter, Pete Woods, Nick Strutt and Roger Knowles, County Travellers, The Travellers, Verity Stevens, Mick Broderick, Andy Irvine, Martin Wyndham-Read, Gerry Lockran, Tony Dean and Tony Shaw, Shirley Collins, John Timpany, and others.
- Fixtures also mention the High Barnet Folk Club, Swanee Folk Club, Tim Hart and Maddy Prior, Colin Scott, Murphy and Shaggis, Barry Skinner, Sweeney's Men, Roy Harper, Jeremy Taylor, and Julia Dray among performers at various Monday–Wednesday venues.
Content type: Classified Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- Classified Advertisement Department: Full page of small-ads under the masthead "MELODY MAKER, 161-166 FLEET STREET, LONDON, E.C.4". Press dates and submission rules noted at the top.
Advertisements:
- MUSICIANS WANTED (left and centre columns): Dozens of individual ads seeking bass guitarists, drummers, organists, vocalists, lead guitarists, tenor saxophone players, etc. for semi-pro and professional groups across the UK. Notable entries include:
- Christine Perfect (of Fleetwood Mac) seeking musicians for her backing group: Drums, Bass Guitar, Lead Guitar/Organ (doubling Piano), Tenor (doubling Alto Flute). Enquiries to Harry Simmons, 734-9233.
- Extraordinary Guitar/Vocals or Organ/Vocals for a Midlands-based "very heavy rock band" (021-308 5210).
- Ex-Thunderclaps / Pitman-Avery Productions Need Musicians — all types considered; contact Dave Ruffel 01-882 0188 / 01 REG 1397. (The Thunderclap Newman connection is implied.)
- Two Lead Guitars, Bass Guitar & Drummer — prominently boxed ad, seeking musicians for a major international recording/management concern; must have own kit including Gibson and Marshall; 100-watt amps required. Phone Brian Law 4380 after 6 pm.
- Tyrannosaurus Rex (starred ad): "WANTED to work with T. Rex — a gentle young guy who can play percussion, i.e. Bongos and Drum Kit, some Bass Guitar and Vocal Harmony. Photos please." Box 0679, c/o Melody Maker.
- German Productions of HAIR auditions seeking singers who can sing and move, from Commonwealth, West Indian and African territories. Auditions Sunday 12 October, 2–4 p.m., 11 Shaftesbury Theatre.
- ENGAGEMENTS WANTED (centre column): Ads from individual drummers/vocalists/bass players seeking work, many listing specific styles (soul, jazz, pop, Motown).
- BANDS (right column): Small ensemble and band listings available for bookings.
- Groups Wanted / SKA & Soul Groups / C & W Groups sections with contact details.
- Longacre Press (publishers of Melody Maker) seeking an experienced Advertisement Representative — salary negotiable. Apply to Personnel Department, Longacre Press, 161-166 Fleet Street.
Photos/Images:
- None; entirely text-based small-ads page.
Notes:
- The Christine Perfect ad is significant — she was the keyboard player/vocalist of Fleetwood Mac at this time and was in the process of launching a solo career.
- The Tyrannosaurus Rex ad (Marc Bolan) seeking a new percussionist reflects the imminent departure of Steve Peregrin Took from the duo.
Content type: Gig Listings / Concert Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- Full page of display concert advertisements for venues across the UK for the week of 10–16 October 1969.
Advertisements:
- The Sunday Lyceum (Strand, W.C.2): LED ZEPPELIN with Audience + Frosty Noses, Crab Nebula Lights, Sunday 12th October. Students 16/-, Doors 7 p.m., Concert 7.30 p.m. Discotheque until close, John Anthony's.
- Brunel University (Woodlands Ave., Acton, W.3): Writing on the Wall, Arcadium, Jade, Alan Price (Friday 10 Oct., Earth Night). Next week: midnight rave with Fleetwood Mac, Deep Purple, Howling Wolf, Keith Relf's Renaissance, Aardvark, Andromeda, Explosive Spectrum Lights; buffet and licensed bars till 3 a.m.
- Farx (The Northcote Arms, Southall, Middlesex): Edgar Broughton, D.J. Terry Williams, lights by Aphrodites Rainbow, Sunday 12 Oct. Next Sunday: Roy Harper plus Gypsy.
- The Kensington (Russell Gardens, Holland Road, W.14): Stan Greig's Quartet, Ted Wood Jazzband, John Williams, Bill Nile's Goodtime Band, Fat John Cox, John Williams Trio, Alan Haven Trio. Music every night and Sunday lunchtimes.
- The Tally Ho! (Fortress Road, Kentish Town): Julian Green New Orleans Stompers, Brian Lemon Trio, Johnny Richardson (drums), Colin Purbrook, Tally Ho! Big Band, Dave Shepherd (clarinet), Johnny Richardson on drums, Denny Ogden Octet, Alan Littlejohn / Tony Milliner Septet.
- Hammond Organ Show featuring George Blackmore at Carisbrooke Hall, Victory Ex-Services Club, Monday 27 Oct. Free tickets from Hammond Organ Studios, Boosey & Hawkes.
- Ten Years After (only London appearance): The Polytechnic, Little Titchfield Street, W.1, Saturday 11 Oct., 7.30–11.30. D.J. Pat Boland. Admission 12/6.
- The Incredible String Band: City Hall, Sheffield, Sunday 19 October. John & Tony Smith present. Seats 15/–, 12/6, 10/6, 7/6, 5/–.
- Fleetwood Mac (Glasgow Students' Charities Appeal): Green's Playhouse, Glasgow, Thursday 16 October, with Eclection, introducing The Sleaz Band. Tickets 10/–, 12/6, 15/–, 17/6 from G.S.A.U., 23 Buccleuch Street.
- Friars Aylesbury (Principal Edwards Magic Theatre): Andy Dunlop, Optic Nerve, United Frog, Third Sun, Monday 13 Oct. "Bonded — we give you the morning, we give you the day."
- Friars Aylesbury, Civic Hall Dunstable: Colosseum featuring Glenn "Fernandez" Campbell, Wednesday 22 Oct.
- Cue Club (3a Praed Street, Paddington, W.2): Count Suckle Sound System with Band (Mon.–Thu.); Demon Fuzz Band (Friday 10 Oct.); Skatalites Band (Saturday 11 Oct.); Mouse & the Cat Band (Sunday 12 Oct.). Licensed bar, gents free night Wednesday.
- Aardvark College Entertainments. Johnny Howard Band (Laura Lee, Danny Street, Tony Steven).
- Stone Blues / Juke-Boy Bonner: Still a few dates available. National Blues Federation, 116 Shaftesbury Avenue, W.C.2.
- Freshers' Dance: Keith Relf's Renaissance — Spirit of John Morgan, Barney's London Lite Show, October 17.
- Southbank Club, Grimsby: Graham Bond Initiation on Tuesdays with Children.
- Whisky A Go Go (33-37 Wardour Street, W.1): Infinity (Thu. Oct. 9), Ravingreen (Sat. Oct. 11), Raw Material (Sun. Oct. 12), Majority (Tue. Oct. 14).
- Tangerine Agency representing: Sounds Inc., Ray King Soul Band, The Mohawks, Wishful Thinking, Onyx, Raw Material, Victor Sutcliffe (note: likely a booking agent, not the late Stuart Sutcliffe).
- Northern Polytechnic Dance: Battered Ornaments, Episode Six.
- London Jazz Centre: Jazz Now — 100 Club (Thompson/Thennett, Bob Downes Open Music) and Goat Inn, St Albans (Ian Carr Quartet); also: Seven Ages of Man, Stan Tracey Big Band at Old Theatre, Main Building, London School of Economics, Thursday 16 Oct.
- Root 'n' Jenny Jackson / Zenith - booking details.
- Rupert's People — Back on the road. Bookings: 586-0600.
Photos/Images:
- None; all text display advertisements with bold typographic headings.
Notes:
- Led Zeppelin's Sunday Lyceum appearance and the Fleetwood Mac Glasgow charity concert are the headline gigs this week.
- Ten Years After's "only London appearance" at The Polytechnic is notable given their Woodstock exposure just weeks earlier (August 1969).
Content type: Clubs Listings
Headlines/Articles:
- Full page of weekly club night listings for London and UK venues, divided by venue and day of week.
Advertisements:
- 1001 Club (100 Oxford Street, W.1, 7.30 till late): Bill Nile's Goodtime Band (Thurs. 9 Oct., special guest Ivor Cutler); Chris Barber's Jazzband (Fri. 10 Oct.); Bill Nile's / Neville-Martin Trio (Sat. 11 Oct.); Another Double Event — Soul Machine + Demon Fuzz (Sun. 12 Oct.); Chesterman's Jazz Band (Mon. 13 Oct.); Chesterman's Jazz Band + Martin Ragtime Band + Emmanuel Sales (Tue. 14 Oct.); The Barbara Thompson Quintet with Art Theman and Bob Downes Trio + Errol Dixon & the Nighthawks (Wed. 15 Oct.); Yarba Yarra Jazz Band with Lucille Newcombe (Thurs. 16 Oct.). Fully licensed; members and accompanied guests only.
- Studio 51 (Ken Colyer Club, 10/11 Great Newport Street, near Leicester Square): Spontaneous Music Ensemble; Jo-Ann Kelly; Brett Marvin & the Thunderbolts & Fishook (Sat. 13 Oct., afternoon 2–6 p.m.). Blues Loft / Ashkan (Fri.); Groovesville / i Bond! (Thu.–Fri. "Wake Arms, Epping, next Sunday East of Eden").
- Thames Hotel (Plough Court, Middlesex): Yarra Yarra Jazzband, Brian Green's Jazzband, Steve Lane's Southern Stompers.
- Flamingo (33-37 Wardour Street, W.1): All Stars (Fri. Lord Napier, regularly); Committee featuring "Good Night Honey" (new record, high energy late show); Soul Machine / Demon Fuzz; Barbara Thompson Quintet.
- Groovesville: Monty Sunshine; Yellow Dog (2 bars); J.B. Bongo, Leicester.
- Underground: Atomic-Roaster; Alexander Patton.
- Birkbeck College (Malet Street, W.C.1): Progressive Blues + New Warlock group (Fri. Oct. 10).
- Stackhouse: Spice (Leeds University); various Saturday listings.
- Tabby's Club (Ealing Broadway): Lord Napier listings.
- Bottleneck Blues Club (Railway Tavern, Angel Lane, E.15).
- Saturday continued: Lord Napier / New Iberia Stompers / Berry Richardson; Golden Star Club (46 Westbourne Road, N.7).
- Monday: Danny Moss (Blackbottom Stompers, Ship, Reading); John Dummer Blues Band / Nighthawks (Cooks Ferry Inn, Angel, Edmonton); Quintessence (Village of the Damned Blues Club, Aurora Ballroom, Brompton, Gillingham, Kent — "Savoy Brown").
- Tuesday: Sacrifice Sacrifice (Binny's Blueshouse, Crown Hotel, Birmingham); The Taste (Spa Lounge, Cheltenham); Zoot Money (Black Prince Hotel, Bexley — "Old Our Mate is back").
- Wednesday: Trad jazz / modern jazz clubs; Frank Ricotti Quartet (Joustin' House, Elm Park Hotel, horn); New Orleans Jazz (John Keen Band, Country Club of Trad Century).
- Ronnie Scott's (47 Frith Street, W.1, 8.30 till 3 a.m.): Clarke-Boland Big Band and Salena Jones (until October 25th); then BBC-2 Colour TV from Oct. 27th — tickets to members on written application; from Oct. 13: Ray Russell Group; from Oct. 13: Keith Tippett Band. Upstairs: Thelonious Monk Qrt.
- Freakeasy (Fishmongers Arms, Wood Green): Jody Grind + Freedom (Friday 10 Oct.); Alan Skidmore Quartet + Spontaneous Concert Band + Bob Downes Open Music (Sat. 11 Oct.).
- Marquee (90 Wardour Street, W.1, 01-437 2375): Glass Menagerie, Magna Carta, Blossom Toes, Big Finger, Savoy Brown (with Brian Auger/Trinity Samson), Writing on the Wall (with Circus), Mixed Media; eight-track recordings at Marquee Studios.
- Savoy, Catford: The Cats (Sat. Oct. 11), Steve Maxted Show (every Sunday).
- Mothers (High Street Erdington, Birmingham): The Family (Sun. Oct. 12); Sweeney's Men & Bridget St John (Tue. Oct. 14); Doctor K's Blues Band; Keith Relf Renaissance; Frosty Mosses.
- The Star Hotel, Croydon: Aynsley Dunbar (Mon.–Sat., 8–11); The Village (light show); Third Ear Band / Gracious.
- Dunstable Civic: Nice + Twilly (Monday 13 Oct.), sincere apologies for non-appearance of Edgar Broughton.
- California Ballroom (Whipsnade Road, Dunstable): DJ Emperor Rosko; Lee Dorsey (new disco, Saturday 11 Oct., return of the American Soul Star).
- The Torrington (High Road, North Finchley): Dick Morrissey, Terry Smith, and trio with Bill Le Sage Trio (Thu. Oct. 9); Harold McNair with the Ed Faultless Trio (Sun. Oct. 12).
- Bull's Head (Barnes Bridge, SW13): Tony Lee Trio, Bill Le Sage Trio Quintet, Hank Shaw, Tommy Whittle, Danny Moss; resident: Tony Mann / Torch Archer; Hank Shaw; Bill Le Sage / Danny Moss; Louis Stewart.
- Country Club Discotheque (Haverstock Hill, N.W.3): Lee Dorsey and his Band (this Friday, from U.S.A.).
- Klooks Kleek (Railway Hotel, West Hampstead): Village + Third Ear Band (Fri. Oct. 10); Family + The Egg (Tue. Oct. 14).
- Starlite Ballroom (Sudbury Town): Johnny Johnson and the Bandwagon supported by Sir Coxsone; Max Romeo and the Rudies, D.N'Unes (Fri. Oct. 17).
- Roundhouse Dagenham: Sam Apple Pie, Chicken Shack, Circus (Sat. Oct. 11, doors 7.30).
- King's Hall, Romford Market: various.
- Country Club (Haverstock Hill): Quintessence + Alan Hill Man (Thu.); Colosseum (next Sunday: Spooky Tooth).
- T.Y.S. Light Show (01-722 4774).
- Wood Green (closing down session): Alan Elsdon + Guests.
- Ronnie Scott's Upstairs: Thelonious Monk Qrt. (noted separately).
- Sir Percy (Quintet, recording artists): dates at Watford Penny Club, St Ives Y.C., Steere's Wheel (W. Bromwich), Sutton-in-Ashfield, Amorfield.
Photos/Images:
- None; entirely small-print listings.
Notes:
- The Clarke-Boland Big Band and Salena Jones residency at Ronnie Scott's is notable, as is the announcement of Thelonious Monk's upcoming stint upstairs.
- Bridget St John and Sweeney's Men appearing at Mothers (Birmingham) reflects the folk-rock scene alongside the heavy rock acts.
- Keith Tippett Band listed at Ronnie Scott's from Oct. 13 — an early London appearance for this free-jazz/avant-garde group.
- Jody Grind at Freakeasy (Wood Green) alongside avant-garde jazz acts (Alan Skidmore, Bob Downes) is an interesting cross-genre night.
- Lee Dorsey's name appears twice (California Ballroom and Country Club Discotheque) on the same page, suggesting two different appearances that week.
Content type: Gig/Concert Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- N/A — page is entirely concert and event advertisements
Advertisements:
- The Magic Village (Liverpool): Family, The Third Ear Band, Bridget St. John at the Royal Philharmonic Hall, Thursday October 16, 7:30pm
- H.A.A. Present in concert: Fat Mattress, Keith Relf's Renaissance, High Tide, Manic Depression (compéred by Pete Drummond) — Watford Town Hall, 8pm Friday 31st October
- Annabel (362 High St., Sunderland): Mon Oct 20 — Fat Mattress, Lovin' Spoonful; Mon Oct 27
- Moody Blues (+ Full Supporting Programme) — Manchester College of Commerce, October 10th, Aytoun Street
- Road Show with Simon Stables' Stable Diet and Black Sun Light Circus — Writing on the Wall, Arcadium; bookings 01-437 3493
- Magna Carta (Colin Scott, Jon Betmead, Jackie Challenor) — represented by Peter Rice Agency, 10j Wardour St.
- Tangerine Peel — represented by Peter Rice Agency, 10j Wardour St.
- Savoy Brown + The Spring — Winter Gardens, Malvern, Saturday October 11th; lights by Sidewinder, Power Touch Disco Show; Admission 10/-
- King Crimson (last London show before USA tour) — Saturday October 11th, London College of Printing, Elephant & Castle; Synanthesia and Skin Alley support; 6/- advance, 8/- door
- Salford University Students' Union: A Night of Family Entertainment with Family, Stars of Stage and Circus, Climax Chicago Blues Band, Third Ear Band, The Entire Sioux Nation, Killing Floor, The Famous Jug Band, Edison's Phonograph, Manchester Road, Nova Express Lightshow, Films Discotheques etc. — Friday October 10th
- King Crimson — City of London Polytechnic Students' Union, Salisbury House, Moorgate EC2, Friday October 10th, 8pm; 10/-
- The Committee ("Britain's Great Soul Show") with The Exotics (from USA, in Britain November 19–30) — M.M.E.M. Ltd., 54 Sidney Street, Cambridge
- David Bowie — Kenneth Pitt Management Ltd, 01-486 4293
- City Univ.: Blonde on Blonde + Playground — Fri Oct 10th, St. John St. EC1; 8.0 Late, 5/-
- All Saints' Hall Notting Hill Gate — every Tuesday in October: Arcadium and Their Friends (Oct 14: Arcadium + Tubby Grind; Oct 28: Freedoms Children with Simon Stables Stable Diet and Black Sun Light Circus)
- ZigZag Benefit — Civic Hall, Dunstable, Tuesday October 14th: Fairport Convention, Mighty Baby/Soft Cloud, Jerry Floyd, Ginger Mills, Optic Nerve; 7:30–11:15; only 8/-
- Pete Brown and Piblokto! — Bron Agency Ltd (cartoon/illustration ad)
- Dave Goldberg Memorial — The Kensington, Russell Gardens, Monday 13th October; fellow jazzmen pay tribute (musicians listed include Tubby Hayes, Pat Smythe, Ronnie Scott, Sandy Brown, Ronnie Smith, Steve Tracy, Henry Lowther, Kenny Napper, Judd Procter, Ronnie Rodd, Whimpy Chisholm, Ronnie Ross, Denny Moss, Bobby Breen, Robin Jones, Phil Patterson, Al Pettifer, Lea Stewart and many more)
- Nice Concert — Fairfield Hall, Croydon, Friday October 17th; SOLD OUT
- The Battered Ornaments — featuring Nisar Ahmad Khan (saxophone and flute), Chris Spedding (guitar/bass), and drummer Laura Allen; Blackhill Enterprises 01-229 5718/4
- Palais High Rd Ilford — Tuesday October 21st: Family plus Grail; advance tickets 3 A.F. plus 10/- (Tickets: Ad-Lib Ent., 41 Curzon Street W1); at door 12/6
- Borough Poly New Hall: Glass Menagerie and The Gun — Friday October 10th; Girls Free; Jan Dukes De-Grey
- Freshers Dance, Enfield College — Sat Oct 11th: Eire Apparent + Aardvark Damato; 8–12; Bar; Admission 7/6
- Groundhogs, Raw Material, Desolation — Saturday October 11th, 8 till 12, Philippa Fawcett College, 94–100 Leigham Court Road, Streatham SW16
- Crown Hotel, Marlow: John Dummers Blues Band (Sunday October 12th); next week Keef Hartley
- High Tide, Trees, Skin Alley — Clearwater Productions, 13 Westminster Mews W2
- Bo-Bo Discotheque — Skyway Hotel, London Airport; open 7 nights a week until 2am
- Root & Jenny Jackson and The Hightimers, Sam Apple Pie — St Mary's College, Twickenham, Saturday October 11th; 8/-
- All Saints Hall (Powis Gardens W11): High Tide Gypsy + Entire Sioux Nation, Anan + Skin Alley + Trader Horn (with Sounds from Chaswick)
- Dear Mr Time — Direct Management, Tel 0245-64983
- Climax Chicago Blues Band — last chance at Crown & Anchor, Longton, Sunday October 12th
Photos/Images:
- Pete Brown and Piblokto! — illustrated advertisement with cartoon figures; Bron Agency Ltd, 29/31 Oxford St., London W1
Notes:
- Dense page of small-format gig ads typical of the late-1960s MM back pages
- Striking range of acts from progressive rock (King Crimson, Family, Fairport Convention) to soul (The Committee, The Exotics), blues (Climax Chicago Blues Band, Groundhogs), and folk (Bridget St. John, Magna Carta)
- David Bowie ad lists only his management contact — no specific gig
- Nice concert at Fairfield Hall already sold out
Content type: Classified Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- N/A — full classified advertisements page
Advertisements:
- The Village of the Damned Blues Club, Aurora Ballroom, Brompton, Gillingham, Kent — King Crimson (regret non-appearance due to illness; many thanks to Sam Apple Pie for standing in)
- The Bridge House, Barking Road — Go-Go Girl Dancing Competition; The Power Pack and Freedom
- Imperial College, Saturday October 11th — Fat Mattress; next week Sam Apple Pie; Union members right of admission, S.U. cards
- Roger Squire Discotheques — "the mobile music makers"; dances, parties, clubs, receptions; Tel 01-722 8111 (day)
- Geoff Black Discotheques enquiries — Harry Wylie 01-720 1642
- Mackay-Monson Discotheques — "Sound unlimited by the professionals"; parties, dances, spectacular sound shows; Dial 01-427 8391 / 01-699 2667
- Bob Sands Discotheques — lights, groups, dance bands; Dial 01-534 3521
- CF8 / Chalk Farm Studios Ltd, 1A Belmont Road, London NW1 — 8-track recording studio; "An ideal environment for creative people to progress"; opening half-price offer: £7.10.0 per hour
- Pan Sound Studios, 23 Denmark St., London WC2 — 8-track mobile recording unit; can provide 8-track with all facilities for £10 per hour
- Tangerine Recording Studios — 8-track; 935/4244 or 4562
- Multiple classified sections: Public Notices, Vocalists Wanted, Singers, Dance Bands, Girl Disc, Versatile Girl, Lyric Writers Wanted, Pen Pals, Record Producer, Situations Wanted, Rehearsal Rooms, Transport (cabin transport, vans/roadies), Freedom Transport (vans and roadies 24 hrs), Accommodation (Luxury Flat in Majorca exchange), Artists Wanted, Cars for Sale, Records for Sale, Records Wanted, Instruments for Sale
- Butter Interstate Discoshow — spreads all that stereo power; anywhere anytime; 01-340 7145
- Tartanheque — for itinerant and cosmopolitan discotheques and kaleido scope light shows; Pirate telephone 01-794 9728 (any time)
- British Music Strings Ltd — Guitar Strings; full catalogue from sole makers; 130 Shacklewell Lane, Hackney, London E8
Photos/Images:
- Guitar Strings illustration (decorative ad for British Music Strings Ltd)
Notes:
- Classified ad page typical of the era — reflects a thriving scene of vocalists seeking work, bands forming, rehearsal spaces, discotheques, and recording studios
- King Crimson cancellation notice at Village of the Damned Blues Club is notable — Sam Apple Pie stood in as replacement
- Several ads seeking female vocalists, lead vocalists, and versatile performers, reflecting high turnover in bands of the period
Content type: Music Instrument/Equipment Advertisements & Classifieds
Headlines/Articles:
- N/A — full equipment advertisements and instrument classifieds page
Advertisements:
- Bill Lewington (144 Shaftesbury Ave, London WC2) — Selmer, Conn, LeBlanc, Couture, Grassi, Yamaha, Courtois saxophones, flutes, trumpets, trombones, cornets; prices listed
- Drum City (114 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1) — Joe Hodson, Dave Golding, Bill Hoade; Autumn Bargain Sale; full price list for snare drums, bass drums, tom-toms, cymbals; Latin American drum listings
- Reslo Mikes — "the best for round hole cellos and violas"; available from all Rotosound dealers
- Lawrence Pick-Ups — for round hole cellos and violas
- Carlsbro Sound Centre (57 Station St., Mansfield) — Secondhand Bargains: Fender, Gibson, Vox, Gretch, Marshall, Premier, Ludwig equipment; full list with prices
- Modern Sound (128 Charing Cross Road WC2) — Sale; extensive price list for WEM, Fender, Framus, Dallas, Burns, Marshall amplifiers and guitars
- T.W. Music (400 Lillie Rd SW6) — amplifiers and equipment
- G. Scarth Ltd (53 Charing Cross Rd WC2) — "Scarth for Choice in Guitars"; Jumbo EKO, Harmony, Tatra, Framus, Levin, Hofner; 12-string: EKO, Hofner, Selmer, Hawke; open all day Saturday
- Drum City presents Total Percussion, Oct 12th, Lyceum Strand, 2 o'clock — featuring Joe Morello (courtesy Ludwig Drums), plus Allan Grahame Percussion Ensemble with Special Guest Appearances, introduced by Denny Piercy; free tickets from Drum City, 114 Shaftesbury Avenue
- Dallas Arbiter Ltd (in conjunction with Ludwig Drums of America) — The International Drum Event of 1969 featuring "The Fabulous Joe Morello"; UK tour dates listed (Oct 8 Greenhalgh & Co Exeter; Oct 9 Browns of Bristol; Oct 13 Minns of Bournemouth; Oct 14 Pete Seaton Edinburgh; Oct 15 Yardleys Birmingham; Oct 16 Sound Centre/Gamlin Pianos/Barratts Cardiff; Oct 19 Potters Music Croydon; Sun Oct 12th Drum City Ltd London)
- Len Stiles — Gibson Les Paul Junior, Fender Jaguar, Guild, Epiphone Colt, Black Bison Bass, Hopf instruments; for sale and cash waiting for good quality instruments
- Sound City (124 Shaftesbury Ave, Grand Autumn Sale) — Guitars: Burns, Maton, Gibson, Danelectro, Kay Red Devil, Fender Telecaster, Ado 12; Amplifiers: Selmer, Vox 30W, Vox 50W, Fender, Burns, WEM, Gretsch, Arbiter, Wurlitzer, Fender Pro Reverb; part exchanges, terms, purchases, accessories; 01-437 7486
- L.W. Hunt Drum Co (10/17 Hampstead Road, London NW1) — Olympic drums for sale (price lists on request); "Doc" Hunt — jet service on repairs
- Instruments For Sale classified section — individual ads for baritone sax, clarinet, Gibson EG3 bass, Gibson Les Paul, Fender Stratocaster, Fender Telecaster, Gibson Egg, Gibson SG Special, Gibson 335 sunburst, Gretsch Country Club, Ludwig Classic kit, Starfire 375, Vox Continental organ, Ajax kit, Hammond Organ, Napolean Precision Bass, Triumph bass guitar and others
- Instruments Wanted classified section
- Instrument Repairs (1/4 per word classifieds) — including accordion repairs, guitar repairs
- For Sale section — Leslie 145/147/247, American Rogers drum kit, custom Les Paul guitar, cabin Studio on wheels
Photos/Images:
- Joe Morello — portrait photograph of the drummer used in the Dallas Arbiter/Ludwig Drums "International Drum Event of 1969" advertisement
Notes:
- The concentration of drum-focused advertising (Drum City, Dallas Arbiter/Ludwig, Doc Hunt) reflects the prominence of drum equipment coverage in this issue
- Joe Morello was best known as the drummer in the Dave Brubeck Quartet; his UK tour was a notable event
- Carlsbro secondhand bargains ad and Modern Sound sale suggest a strong secondhand market in guitar and amplifier equipment
- Page 30 is the final body page of the magazine
Content type: Classified Advertisements / Display Ads
Headlines/Articles:
- N/A — this is a full classified advertisements page
Advertisements:
- Foote for Bass (Chas. E. Foote Ltd., 17 Golden Square, W.1) — large display ad listing new and secondhand bass guitars (Gibson, Fender, Hofner, Framus, etc.) with prices; promotes full range of bass repairs and part exchanges
- Top Gear (5 Denmark Street, London W.C.2) — guitars, amplifiers and musical equipment for sale including Gibsons, Fenders, Marshall, Carlsbro and other brands
- Selmer Musical Instruments Ltd. — Morriss acoustic guitars ("value this week"), used Fenders, Epiphone Sorrento, Gibson 335, Hoyer Jumbo, EB2 Gibson and Gretsch Country Gentleman; also secondhand guitar and bass listings; promotes repairs and overhauls at 114–116 Charing Cross Road
- PAN Musical Instruments (33/37 Wardour Street, W.1) — secondhand Gibson, Fender and other guitars; secondhand organs (Farfisa, Hofner, Burns, Selmer); secondhand amplification; all instruments wanted for cash
- Bargain Centre / Simms-Watts Gear (81 South Ealing Road) — Simms-Watts amps, Rickenbacker, various guitars and organs listed for sale
- Ivor Mairants ("Britain's Leading Guitar Expert") — Yamaha guitar promotion (Jumbo, Folk models with prices); Ivor Mairants Musicentre, Rathbone Place, London W.1
- Rose-Morris Showrooms — Duo Fuzz Unit, EKO Guitars, new instruments listing including Avenir, Elilami, Headmaster, Conn, Guild, Marshall; secondhand bargains including Watkins, VOX, Epiphone, Fender, Dynacord; drum kits from £43
- King / Kenny Nicholls Music Store (202 King Street, Hammersmith W.6) — amplifiers comparison; clarinets, alto saxes, tenor saxes; expert saxophone, clarinet and amplifier repairs on premises
- Rotosound — "The world's highest grade in music strings"; bass guitar strings available in 4 lengths; promoted at your music store (Industrial Music Division, 20 Upland Rd., Bexleyheath, Kent)
- Sound Equipment (1/- per word classified section) — numerous small ads for Fender Bassman, Marshall, VOX, Goodmans, Lansing speakers, hand-built amplifiers, wanted ads for instruments
- Organs (1/- per word classified section) — Marshall, Selmer bass amps; Hammond, Lowrey, Wurlitzer organs listed; Maurice Placquet organ dealers (123 Churchfield Road, Acton W.3)
- Orange (3–4 New Compton Street, W.C.2) — Gibson Les Paul, new guitars in stock, Yamaha, Danelectro; Fender, Gibson bass guitars; orange microphones; all secondhand purchases for cash
- Baldwin Centre Point Showrooms (21 St. Giles High Street, London W.C.2) — Fender, Eros organs, Marvin guitars, Watkins, WEM, Hofner, Gibson, Burns listed; open 9:30–6 p.m., all-day Saturday
- Classified Advertisement Dept. — Melody Maker, 161–166 Fleet Street, London E.C.4; Tel: FLEet Street 5011, Ext. 171/176/234
Photos/Images:
- None — page is entirely typeset classified and display advertisements
Notes:
- This is the main classified/display advertising page for musical instruments and equipment
- Prices are in pre-decimal sterling (£ s. d.)
- Header reads: "MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969—Page 31"
Content type: Back cover / Concert promotion advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- American Folk, Blues and Gospel Festival '69: Full back-cover advertisement placed by Melody Maker "by arrangement with Harold Davison" promoting a nationwide UK tour featuring major American blues and gospel artists
Advertisements:
- Albert King and His Blues Band — billed as "For the first time in Britain"
- The Stars of Faith — from Black Nativity
- Otis Spann — "Boss of Chicago Blues"
- John Lee Hooker — "The Blues Guitar and Vocals of"
- Champion Jack Dupree — "And the great"
- Tour dates and details listed:
- Thu 30 Oct — Hammersmith Odeon (6:45 & 9:10 p.m.)
- Fri 31 Oct — Bristol Colston Hall
- Sat 1 Nov — Bracknell Sports Centre
- Sun 2 Nov — Leicester De Montfort Hall
- Mon 3 Nov — Birmingham Town Hall
- Tue 4 Nov — Sheffield City Hall
- Wed 5 Nov — Glasgow City (Grand) Hall
- Thu 6 Nov — Carlisle Market Hall
- Fri 7 Nov — Newcastle City Hall
- Sun 9 Nov — Croydon Fairfield Hall
- Mon 10 Nov — Portsmouth Guildhall
- Tue 11 Nov — St. Helens Theatre Royal
- Wed 12 Nov — Hemel Hempstead Pavilion
- Tickets: 8/-, 10/-, 14/-, 17/-, 21/-, 25/- depending on venue
- "Please send stamped addressed envelope with postal applications — Don't Miss Out — Book Now!"
Photos/Images:
- Portrait photograph of Albert King (head and shoulders)
- Group photograph of The Stars of Faith (four performers)
- Portrait photograph of Otis Spann
- Portrait photograph of John Lee Hooker
Notes:
- This is the back cover (page 32) of the issue
- Masthead "Melody Maker" logo appears top-left in the advertisement
- Small print at foot of page includes publication registration, copyright and conditions of sale text (Longacre Press Ltd., 161/166 Fleet Street, London E.C.4)
- Header reads: "Page 32—MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969"
Content type: Feature article / Record reviews column / Advertisements
Left page:
- Page identifier: "MELODY MAKER, October 11, 1969—Page 17"
- Large masthead: "CHRISTINE PERFECT reviews the latest sounds in Blind Date"
- Illustrated portrait/caricature drawing of Christine Perfect
- Multi-column "Blind Date" record review column — Christine Perfect listens to and reviews a selection of new singles
- Artists reviewed include: Jimmy Cliff, Dionne Warwick ("They Don't Give Medals"), David Essex ("The Lady"), and several others (column text partially cut at spine)
- Additional short reviews for various artists including Johnny Nash, George Howe, Sandy, Judy, and others
Right page:
- Banner: "AN EXCLUSIVE TWO-PART SERIES"
- Large bold headline: "SPECTOR ON POP TODAY — PART ONE"
- Byline: "BY PETE SENOFF"
- Large close-up photographic portrait of Phil Spector
- Extended interview/profile article on Phil Spector as a record producer — discussing his career, production techniques, and influences
- Sections within the article: "Slavery", "Reason", "Product", "Scaring", "The unmistakeable Spector touch"
- Promo sidebar: "NEXT WEEK: SPECTOR ON DYLAN AND PRESLEY"
- Small photograph captioned with reference to Ike and Tina Turner
Spanning content:
- The centre fold/spine runs horizontally across the middle of the image (i.e., vertically when magazine is open flat)
- The two pages belong to separate editorial features; no single article or image visibly spans the full spread
Photos/Images:
- Drawn portrait illustration of Christine Perfect (left page, top)
- Large photographic portrait of Phil Spector (right page, dominant image)
- Small action photograph, likely Ike and Tina Turner (right page, lower section)
Advertisements:
- EMI advertisement (left page, upper right): "…and THE BAND played on!" — promoting The Band, with a group photograph and label layout
- Additional small EMI/label ads alongside: Smith ("Be a You"), possibly others
- "SON OF GUTBUCKET" album advertisement (right page, lower right) — artists include The Groundhogs, Jo Ann Kelly, Aynsley Dunbar, The Famous Jug Band & many others — "17 GREAT TRACKS FOR ONLY 17/6! Got yours yet?" — also lists Creedence Clearwater, Roy Harper, Canned Heat
Notes:
- Image is rotated 90 degrees (landscape). The left page of the spread occupies the top half of the image as displayed; the right page occupies the bottom half.
- Some record review text on the left page is partially obscured or cut at the spine fold
- Text along the centre spine of the right page (Spector article) may have a few words split or difficult to read fully