LIVERPOOL TODAY/ "LIVE AT THE CAVERN" NR 5028 (-65) UK STEREO

 When I walk around the bins searching I always look for vinyls that allow me to dig deep into sixties music history. And this goes deep...very deep. Checking the rear notes it's more a homage to The Cavern itself than to the artists. Probably recorded at location, but it doesn't sound live, more like a studio one with added presentation and public noise. Though non of that matter much to me cause here I get acts I've never even heard (of) before. Earl Preston Realms also issued one unsuccessful 45 for Fontana ("Raindrops"/"That's For Sure") before disappearing as an act, while this became The Richmond Group's only recording. Michael Allen went on to a crooner carreer lasting into the early seventies, then recording for both Decca and MGM. To my ears it all sounds ok, but there's nothing groundbreaking going on. Only cuts that make my heart beat a little faster is the Earl Preston Realm's version of "I'll Be Doggone" and the rock numbers by The Richmond Group, especially the "I'm All Right" cover. The rest quite ordinary without anything sticking out. But even so it feels good to add a couple of "new" acts to the collection. Also issued on vinyl in US (Capitol T/ST 2544), Downunder, Brazil, France, Italy and Holland. UK 2009 CD on Fantastic Voyage (FVCD 015). Premiere UK had label as shown here on thick unflexible vinyl in a laminated cover. A little confusing with this copy is label, number and sleeve all suggest mono, but it's actually a legit and very good stereo mix.  (SÄM*)  (LYBÖ*)