File under ‘must own’. The Blue Flames EP Georgie Fame and The Blue Flames on limited edition vinyl via Ace Records.
I mean, just look at it. The cover alone is enough to tempt you. And that’s before we get to the music, which is about as Mod as it gets. Instrumentals to get your feet moving.
Want the background? Ace Records has put that together. But essentially, ‘Orange Street’ was the B-side to ‘JA Blues’, which was followed by the ‘Stop Right Here’ and ‘Rik’s Tune’ doubleheader, both on the R&B label. Now they are back as an extended EP via Ace Records.
And if you want more background…
The reason why these four tracks were instrumentals was due to bandleader Georgie Fame inking a deal with Columbia before they were recorded. His manager deemed it not wise to let his distinctive voice loose outside the confines of live venues like the Flamingo. Thus, he sung on the first Georgie Fame and the Blue Flames 7” ‘Do The Dog’ that appeared in January 1964.
The two R&B Blue Flames 7” singles are collectables and sought out by lovers of early R&B, the proto-Mod sound as well as those who take their pleasure in the ska beat of ‘Orange Street’. Despite being released nearly half a century ago, no one had actually rewaxed them. It seemed like a no brainer for Ace to finally combine them on one record on this Blue Flames EP.
As for the all-important sleeve, Ace/BGP has licensed the cover photo of Georgie directly from Val Wilmer, with Dean Rudland adding in the liner notes to the story beyond the recordings.
As I said, a ‘must own’. it is released on the 30th June, 2023, but you can pre-order now directly from Ace Records. It’s a limited edition and likely the best £10 you’ll spend all year.
Find out more at the Ace Records website
