A Very Important Pop group. That was how the V.I.P.S. viewed themselves, when they set out to conquer the world at the height of the Swinging Sixties. Their journey began in Carlisle and their target was London, where a thriving music industry promised fame and riches. The lads from the North were so confident of success, that lead singer Mike Harrison told his young bride they would 'make it in three weeks'. An optimistic assessment as it turned out, but all part of the fascinating V.I.P.S. story, as told by Harrison in an exclusive interview for the liner notes to this super CD. Some 26 tracks - including singles and EPs - cover the band's entire career from 1964-67. They show a blues and soul 'covers' band evolving into more creative outfit, that later became Spooky Tooth. Rousing performances, such as 'Mercy Mercy' and 'Smokestack Lightning', are complemented by unreleased acetate recordings, as well as rare 'live' radio recordings. A Very Important Collection indeed!
The complete recordings - including several rarities - now all together on one superb 2 CD collection. Booklet with authoritative and extensive liner notes by respected author and journalist Chris Welch. Includes interview with group founder Mike Harrison Expertly remastered - superb sound.
Tracklisting: CD 1 1. DONT KEEP SHOUTING AT ME 2. SHES SO GOOD 3. MERCY MERCY 4. THATS MY WOMAN 5. WINTERTIME 6. ANYONE 7. I WANNA BE 8. DONT LET IT GO 9. STRAIGHT DOWN TO THE BOTTOM 10. IN A DREAM 11. SMOKESTACK LIGHTNING 12. BACK INTO MY LIFE AGAIN 13. EVERY GIRL I SEE 14. STAGGER LEE 15. ROSEMARIE 16. LATE NIGHT BLUES
CD 2 1. I WANNA BE FREE 2. SMOKESTACK LIGHTNING 3. YOU DONT KNOW LIKE I KNOW 4. STAGGER LEE 5. NO USE CRYING 6. I WANNA BE FREE 7. FANNIE MAE 8. TALK ABOUT MY BABE 9. GRAPES OF WRATH 10. I GOT A WOMAN 11. BLUE FEELING 12. SAD STORY
