MANFRED MANN/THE FIVE FACES OF MANFRED MANN ALM 13018 (-65) US MONO

The 1964 US equivalent to their UK debute "The Five Faces Of Manfred Mann" (see earlier post) was called "The Manfred Mann Album", with eleven tracks in common. This US second LP, though carrying same name as the UK debute, is in fact a US only compilation of single and EP cuts plus one from the UK TFFOMM left out of TMMA. To put it simple - a US only Manfred Mann album with exclusive tracking and sleeve design. They did issue a large number of 45:s 1963-65 and if you should need to have all those on LP close to the fact this could be a valuable piece of that puzzle. But even for the completist and/or fan who already gathered the singles it's good just for the label and sleeve. Track choice somewhat lighter and more pop orientated than on the eponimuos UK. Audio very loud and clear without bursting the seams. Good listening all through with a fair share of catchy moments. My favorites for now - "Sha-La-La", "John Hardy" and "Watermelon Man". Also as US stereo (ALS 16018). Canadian on Capitol (T-6102). Japan 2014 CD on Parlophone (WPCR-15452) came with fifteen bonus tracks. Premiere US had label as shown here and thick glossy cover. (YZÄ*) (ÖXCÅ*) (MÄNÄ*)