MANFRED MANN/THE BIG HITS OF MANFRED MANN 1M 048-05 284 (-72) GERMANY

 To my taste this is a hidden gem, an example of what goodies you can find in the cheapest bins. A German variation of the UK "The Greatest" compilation (MFP 5269) with same tracking, but different sleeve design. The band pic on front is great though the rest of the cover quite cheapish. Quality is thin and brittle and they even forgot to include last track on side two - "5.4.3.2.1." - on the rear list. Though if you can look past that and the budget label it offers very enjoyable listening. Including former 45 A:s and B:s of which "Sha-La-La" and "5.4.3.2.1." can be called slightly faked stereo, or maybe monoish, but the rest true stereo. Regardless of formats the audio is smashing all through - big, warm and very good to the ears. With eyes closed in the listening chair I'm taking it all in with a big smile.  So if You're into vinyl and wanna get sixties recordings conveyed by top audio, but don't wanna spend more than a buck or two, this is highly recommended. Apart from UK and Germany also released in Holland, Downunder and South Africa. German cassette on Crystal (228 CRY 05 284).  (MÄNÄ*)   (SXS*)  (GÖXÄ*)