Late Start

This blog hasn’t been updated for a long time. A combination of other things to do, illness and lack of enthusiasm. But I would like to keep it going, even though I am not sure if anyone actually reads it.

Musically, the last few months have been a bit quiet. Not many major releases, though I think that is about to change with stuff by Porcupine Tree, Rush, Dream Theater all on the horizon. Re-issues are still being pumped out at a steady, heady pace. We have had Steve Hillage’s and Magazines back catalogue recently. Hillage’s has been co-ordinated by Mark Powell with his usual partner Paschal Byrne at the mastering controls. I think they have done a great job, apart from a few errors and omissions in the sleeve notes. With Steve’s input, enabling interesting bonus tracks to be included well done to all concerned.

Magazine’s re-issue series on the other hand has been a bit lacklustre. The remastering by Abbey Roads Sean Magee is pretty good, but the re-packaging is a bit lacking in inspiration to say the least. Good essays, but the quality of the printing and layout isn’t too good. All done by EMI’s in-house design team. Shame!

In contrast, Sony/Legacy’s re-issue of ELO’s “Out of the Blue” and “Balance of Power” is exceptional. The former in a gorgeous hardback book format, with lots of great artwork, notes and full credits and excellent remastering by Joseph Palmaccio. Similarly upcoming are the last two re-issues by The Moody Blues from their classic period. If they are anything like last years series of remasters they should be pretty good. It is good to see major labels taking care and showing dedication in taking care of their back catalogue.