RECORD COLLECTOR MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2022 ISSUE NO: 535

THE BEATLES IN - 1962 Pretty much every year of their recording career was an annus mirabilis for the Fab Four, but the way they snatched victory from the jaws of defeat in 1962 has spawned no end of stories – and a few myths that have seeped in through the cracks in their history.
With help from original photos by Mike McCartney, Richie Unterberger fills in the gaps in one of popular music’s greatest stories.
BILLY IDOL - This one-time derided ‘plastic punk’ graduated from Generation X to a makeover as a full-fat 80s rock star for the MTV generation. But his solo career was almost over before it began, he tells RC.
ANDY ELLISON - Many a rock frontman has specialised in an onstage stunt or two, but none like this erstwhile leader of John’s Children, Jet and Radio Stars. He relates some truly hair-raising, and indeed bone-crunching, tales from a misspent eternal youth.
SPARKS - As two of avant-pop’s great survivors, after their startling 70s emergence as alt.glam mavericks, the Mael Brothers fought back from 80s and 90s doldrums. They take us album-by-album through their many acclaimed musical reinventions since 2000.
MICHAEL HEAD - As a late graduate of the Liverpool post-punk scene, Mick Head slowly carved out a career as one of the city’s finest ever songwriters. Now free (again) from the addictions that have potholed his path, he continues to build on a hallowed reputation.
FROM THE VAULTS - Reissues and comps from Blondie, Neu!, Wu-Tang Clan and Bobbie Gentry among those reviewed.
NEW ALBUMS - Loudon Wainwright III, Osees, Cass McCombs and many others have their latest work carefully appraised.
BOOKS - New tomes on World Of Twist, Pink Floyd and ABBA given a first read.
MOVIES/DVDS - Lawrence Of Belgravia is out on Blu-ray. Planet Indie rejoices.
SINGLES - 45s including Bowie and Foo Fighters releases given an airing.
LIVES - Two views of the Stones at Hyde Park, plus St Vincent and The Smile.