ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

AGM 2010 (All of the information)

59

37 - 42

Lots of interesting points raised at the 2010 meeting.

AMERSHAM CONCERT REVIEW (2010 concert featuring several RGM acts)

59

22

Mark Newson offers up his views on the evening

ARLON, DEKE (Mark Newson details the life story of Deke Arlon)

59

3 - 8

Superb article dealing with Deke’s RGM days and his subsequent career as one of Britain’s leading impresarios.

AVALONS, THE (Mark Newson tells the story of this forgotten band)

59

16 - 17

Fascinating story of one of the genuine last groups to be recorded by Joe.

CADDY, ALAN (A great article – with interview transcripts – by Alan Blackburn)

59

30 - 36

Alan Caddy sadly passed away (aged just 60) in 2000. Ten years on, Alan Blackburn looks back at his life and career.

DIAMOND, LEE & THE CHEROKEES (First – hand accounts of this RGM group)

59

9 - 11

Ron Bowdery gives a detailed account of the group and their RGM years.

HEINZ (Rare photograph)

59

51

A previously unseen publicity photograph of Heinz.

INTERNET NEWS (David Peters reports on RGM items)

59

14

David “Detective” Peters gives the lowdown on recent Internet RGM activity.

LEYTON, JOHN AT THE BBC – PART 1 (Rob Bradford unearths brand new information from the BBC Archives)

59

18 - 22

To celebrate John’s 50 years in the music business – Rob Bradford has researched the BBC’s previously unread files on John Leyton.

MEEK, JOE (Tribute records)

59

25

Another selection of recordings paying tribute to our hero.

MEEK, JOE (Who Is Joe Meek?)

59

28

A poetic tribute to Joe by Steve Amber.

MEEK MAIL (Lots of news, views etc)

59

44 - 49

This section is always worth reading as it is packed with information.

MENDEZ, ANNA (USA dance tribute to Joe)

59

28

Anna Mendez is a ground – breaking dance artist in the USA. Inspired by “I H A N W” – her performances have drawn critical praise and acclaim.

NEWSON’S NEWS (Mark’s regular RGM round up)

59

12 - 13

Mark Newson presents his usual round up of RGM snippets / nuggets of information.

PRISONER, THE (Classic British TV shows)

59

50

Mark Newson reviews the classic 60s series.

RGM ARTISTS R.I.P. (A sad litany from Brian Woods)

59

28

Brian Woods reflects upon former RGM artists who have sadly passed away during the past few years.

SHAFTO, BOBBY (Former RGM singer)

59

43

SILVER, EDDIE (50s guitarist)

59

23 - 24

Mark Newson tells the story of a little – known guitarist with both RGM and Shadows connections.

CHROME DREAMS CD (Meek engineered compilation)

58

26

A review of a 2 CD set crammed with 50+ Meek engineered tracks. Many obscurities on CD for the very first time.

D’ELL, DENNY & THE SOUTHSIDE BLUES BAND (John O’Kill’s great final article)

58

28 - 32

Back in 1997 JMS member and recorded sound expert John O’Kill (now sadly deceased) exhibited some vintage tape recorders for the society. Shortly afterwards he recorded a gig featuring Dennis D’Ell and Honey Lantree. A wonderful article details it all.

GHOST HUNTING WITH JOE MEEK (Spooky tales from Tony Grinham)

58

36 - 38

Tony Grinham became close friends with Joe. They shared an interest in the paranormal and the occult. A fascinating account of their real life adventures and experiences.

HOLLOWAY ROAD – 1960 (Meek expert extraordinaire Jim Blake provides a fascinating account of the area around 304)

58

16 - 19

Meek expert (he founded the original RGMAS) Jim Blake lived close to Holloway Road. He provides a richly detailed account of the area from half a century ago – coupled with nostalgic photographs.

INTERNET NEWS RGM on the Web)

58

14

Meek ‘Information Hound’ David Peters has all the details of recent Meek – related activity on the Net.

MEEK, JOE (My memories of Joe Meek)

58

33

Chris Liddiard recalls meetings with Joe Meek during 1958.

MEEK, JOE (Wonderful personal reminiscences from Penny Likorice)

58

20 - 21

Penny Likorice was an 18 – year old back in 1964 when she became Joe’s secretary for c. 6 months. A lovely first – hand account of her RGM days.

MEEKMAIL

58

45 - 50

As ever, an amazing selection of letters and replies. The Honeycombs in Japan, more unreleased RGMs. Memories of Biddy Meek. The story of the Wolves etc., etc.

MILLEN, DAVE – AN OBITUARY (The Puppets guitarist sadly passed away earlier this year)

58

10

Mark Newson recalls the life and times of the Puppets lead guitarist. Robb Shenton adds his own tribute.

NEWSON’S NEWS

58

11 - 14

Several pages of informative snippets from ‘Mr Thunderbolt’ himself (Heinz’s family receive posthumous Platinum Disc, Clem was paid £27 for playing on a Kinks album in 1965, Roger LaVerne on the after dinner speakers’ circuit, Charles Blackwell interviewed on a recent Kathy Kirby DVD etc., etc.)

RADIO SUTCH (Crazy tales from the early days of Pirate Radio)

58

22 - 25

Rob Bradford tells the story of Sutchy’s brief and zany spell as a Pirate DJ in 1964.

RIO, BOBBY (At a restaurant or party near you!?)

58

27

Bobby has recently returned to live performing. He has his own website and you can book him for your own private event. Details here.

TELSTAR: THE MOVIE DVD

58

44

JMS members offer up their personal views on last year’s Meek biopic.

TRIUMPH RECORDS (50 years ago!!)

58

3 - 8

Meek / RGM expert Alan Blackburn details the full background and story of the short – lived but ground – breaking label which featured some of Britain’s rarest 45s, EPs and LPs.

WARLEY LEA FARM REVISITED (Eerie and ghostly sightings at the haunted farmhouse – visited by Joe Meek in 1966)    

58

39 - 43

Tony Grinham’s original accounts appeared in the long out – of – print Thunderbolts #7 & #8. Rob Bradford re – writes the story as well as checking on events during the intervening 40 years. Creepy!

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BAD PENNY BLUES (A great 2 CD set of Meek engineered tracks)

57

15

A review / summary of a brand new 62 track double CD of Joe’s engineering / sound balancing exploits.

BATTORY, MIKE – AN OBITUARY (Death of a James Boy)

57

17

Mark Newson recalls the life and career of the late Mike Battory who was vocalist / guitarist with RGM group The James Boys.

BEAT BOYS, THE (Forgotten RGM group with a fascinating career)

57

21 - 24

Chris Miller and Mark Newson cover the interesting career of this neglected and forgotten group.

CANNON, JUDY (one of ‘Joe’s Girls’)

57

19

Small cutting about Judy from c.1962

CINDERFORD FETE 1966

(unique photographs)

57

50 - 51

Previously unseen photographs of Joe Meek and the Tornados at a charity event (MENCAP) in Cinderford.

DEXTER, RAY (An interview by Tex Rardey – Mr Anagram!)

57

20

Tex Rardey interviews Ray Dexter about his long songwriting career.

DOWLANDS, THE

57

9

A brief 1960s snippet about Joe’s ‘answer’ to the Everly Brothers.

GRAHAM, BOBBY – AN OBITUARY (One of Britain’s finest drummers passes away)

57

3 - 9

A superb and moving tribute to the late drumming legend by Mark Newson. Packed with photographs and information.

HOCKRIDGE, EDMUND – AN OBITUARY (Joe’s first professional Pop recordings were of Ted Hockridge)

57

18 - 19

Mark Newson pays tribute to the big – voiced Canadian baritone singer.

JOHNSON, LAURIE

(Great ‘lost’ LPs engineered by Joe)

57

16

3 LPs (1957 – 1959) by Laurie Johnson now released on a fabulous 2 CD set

LEYTON, JOHN

(John’s latest CD release)

57

10 - 11

Rob Bradford reviews John Leyton & The Flames brand new 2009 CD.

MEEK MAIL

57

38 - 49

Tons of fascinating readers’ letters / comments and equally interesting / informative replies.

READER, PAT (The ‘Cha Cha’ girl sings again!)

57

29

Dave Cannon sent in a newspaper article from the I.O.W. with information about Pat Reader in 2009!

TELSTAR (Film soundtrack CD)

57

14

Rob Bradford reviews the soundtrack CD issued to coincide with Telstar: The Movie.

TORNADOS & BILLY FURY (Robb Huxley’s enthralling account continues)

57

30 - 37

Robb Huxley’s tremendously detailed and colourful journey of the group’s latter day career continues. Additional information by Mark Newson.

TWANGS FOR THE MELODY (Some RGM Instro re – makes)

57

12 - 13

Trevor Simpson reviews a brand new Instrumental CD which features 6 RGM classics.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

304 HOLLOWAY ROAD (Students tell of ‘My Time In The Joe Meek House’)

56

11 - 13

Students Fidel Villeneuve and Brian International talk about several months living at 304 in 2001.

DEXTER, RAY

56

29

Brief update of Ray Dexter in 2009.

JMS AGM 2009

56

44 - 50

The minutes of the 2009 AGM held at Newent plus reports from chairman Ken Ledran and other JMS officers.

JONES, TOM (RGM tales)

56

28

Tom Jones with one or two Joe Meek anecdotes…transcript of an interview from the Michael Ball show.

MEEK, EPSTEIN & ORTON ( 3 tragic but flamboyant lives explored)

56

16 - 19

Mark Newson explores the similarities and tragedy surrounding the turbulent lives of three iconic figures in popular culture.

MEEK MAIL

56

30, 51 - 58

Some great information contained within informative letters and equally informative replies.

MOSELEY, LEE (Ken Ledran interviews one half of Lennie & Les)

56

38 - 43

Fascinating interview with the man behind “Sloe Eyed Eastern Maid” and much, much more.

NEWENT (photograph – rear of 1, Market Square c. 1950)

56

31

A superb photograph of Joe’s childhood home courtesy of Sandra Meek.

PAGE, JIMMY (RGM Sessions and more….)

56

25 - 27

Mark Newson’s excellent overview of Jimmy Page’s early career – particularly his spells with Neil Christian and Joe Meek.

PITNEY, GENE (On record producers)

56

28

A short feature where Gene relates tales of Joe Meek, Phil Spector and Brian Wilson.

SUTCH, SCREAMING LORD (great vintage photos + article and cuttings)

56

32 - 37

To commemorate the 10^th anniversary of Dave Sutch’s death – a great selection of photos, articles and interviews. Thanks to Neil Newsome for interview transcript.

TELSTAR:THE MOVIE (loads of background information)

56

3 - 10

Mark Newson compiles cuttings, photographs and interviews with the stars, directors etc. A comprehensive overview.

TELSTAR’S TRAGIC TALE

56

14 - 15

Overview of Joe Meek’s career from The Independent newspaper.

TORNADOS’ STORY – PART 8 (Robb Huxley’s immensely detailed saga continues)

56

20 - 24

Robb Huxley provides a compelling first – hand account of the tragic events of February 1967 and the resulting aftermath.

DANGER MAN (Classic British TV series)

55

34

Patrick McGoohan passed away in 2009 aged 80. Mark Newson recalls Danger Man, now available on DVD.

DEXTER, RAY (Former RGM singer’s news)

55

28 - 31

Several pages detailing Ray’s post – RGM career.

FAREWELL PERFORMANCE ( Rare film)

55

27

A little feature from the N.M.E. with the Tornados on the set of the film.

FLYNN, MICK – AN OBITUARY (An original Packabeat)

55

9 - 11

Mark Newson and Ian Stewart tell the story of Mick Flynn who helped to found the Packabeats.

HI – FI’S, THE (Forgotten RGM group)

55

32 - 33

David Wells relates the history of this forgotten group who recorded several tracks at 304 Holloway Road.

MARTIN, TAB (Versatile musician with RGM connections)

55

26 - 27

Mark Newson covers Tab Martin’s career in the Tornados, the Saints and the Peddlers.

MEEK MAIL

55

35 - 42

Another fascinating collection of letters from JMS members, plus some great replies from our experts.

MITCHELL, MITCH – AN OBITUARY

55

8

Mark Newson pays tribute to the legendary Jimi Hendrix Experience drummer who also recorded with Joe Meek.

SHENTON, ROBB (RGM session singer)

55

3 - 7

Mark Newson interviews the larger than life Robb Shenton about his RGM days in the 1960s.

TELSTAR:THE MOVIE (Extras’ stories + photographs)

55

20 - 22

Daniel Heeney recalls his days on the Telstar film set. Plus photos of the Rapiers & JMS members who were also involved.

TORNADOS, THE – STORY PART 7

55

12 - 19

Robb Huxley continues his amazing first – hand account of life in the group. The year is 1966.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BLUE PETER (Classic British TV Series)

54

33

Mark Newson recalls the classic children’s TV show.

CRYIN’ SHAMES, THE

(Ritchie Routledge reminisces)

54

26 - 32

George Robinson has a detailed account of the group’s history on Bill Harry’s Merseybeat website. Ritchie Routledge (also from the group) disagrees with much of what is written there. Here, he offers his own detailed and fascinating account.

HEINZ

54

11

A letter from Joe to a Mr Baxter who wishes to issue a potential LP by Heinz.

MANISH BOYS, THE (Recorded but not released)

54

22 - 24

Mark Newson details unreleased RGM tracks from the Manish Boys (later to include a young David Bowie).

MEEK, JOE – FESTIVAL 2008

54

36

Gloucester Citizen feature about the then upcoming 2008 Joe Meek Festival.

MEEKMAIL (JMS members’ letters + replies)

54

39 - 46

8 pages of fascinating and informative letters (plus equally fascinating and informative replies) from JMS members and experts.

PIRATE STATIONS (Rockin’ radio days)

54

46 - 51

Mark Newson’s very enjoyable and informed survey of those great 60s stations before the days of Radio 1.

REMEMBERING THE 60s

54

17

Bob McQuillan recounts some of his 60s memories.

TORNADOS, THE – STORY PART 6 (Robb Huxley continues the saga)

54

3 – 11

Robb Huxley continues his amazingly frank and detailed account of life in the Tornados during 1966 – including the Aberfan disaster fund concert and the notorious Kray brothers.

WALLER, MICKEY – AN OBITUARY

54

18 - 19

Mark Newson (aided by Steve Nash) pays tribute to drummer Mickey Waller from his days with the Fleerekkers then on to Rod Stewart & Jeff Beck before his tragic descent into alcoholism.

WELLS, HOUSTON (Houston Wells re – discovered!)

54

12 - 16

‘Missing presumed dead’ for 40 years – Houston Wells is interviewed at length by Spencer Leigh.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

A LIFE IN THE DEATH OF JOE MEEK (Howard Bergman and Susan Stahman’s epic documentary)

53

12 - 13

Several years in the making – this project is a ‘must see’ for all Meek fans – but screenings have been limited in the UK. John Cavanagh offers up his incisive views.

CRESCENTS, THE (The story of a recently discovered group with links to Joe Meek)

53

6 - 7

Bob McQuillan and David Peters relate the story of the Crescents. Nice insights into the late 50s / early 60s music scene.

DAVIES (ANDREWS), JOHN (Forgotten member of the Wild Boys)

53

20 - 21

Mark Newson recounts the story of forgotten Wild Boy John Andrews. Although he was only with the group for seven weeks – it’s all very interesting.

DEXTER, RAY (Recent reports about the versatile Mr Dexter)

53

18 - 19

An overview of Ray’s career focussing on his most recent activities including a new CD.

HARLOW, GERRY (Recorded But Not Released)

53

14 - 15

Previously unknown young female singer who recorded two tracks with Joe Meek in 1962. Mark Newson tells her story.

HEINZ (Stories from Duncan Eaton)

53

34

Journalist Duncan Eaton knew Heinz well, in fact he’s written a biography of Heinz. Sadly – publishers aren’t interested. Duncan relates some recent radio interviews etc talking about Heinz.

JMS AGM 2008

53

46 - 51

Detailed account of the 2008 AGM. Plus all of the officers’ reports.

LAINE, DENNY (Intriguing pre – fame career)

53

8 - 9

Mark Newson reveals the fascinating career (pre – Moody Blues and Wings) of guitarist Denny Laine.

LYTTLETON, HUMPHREY (A tribute by Mark Newson)

53

3 - 5

Mark Newson looks back over the career of the multi – talented Mr Lyttleton. Humph hated what Joe did to Bad Penny Blues – until it became a hit!

MAN IN A SUITCASE (Classic British TV Series)

53

11

Mark Newson checks out this cult action series starring the enigmatic Richard Bradford.

MEEKMAIL

53

38 - 45

Many more interesting letters & replies from JMS members. All very informative.

MURDER IN NEWENT (Grisly case from 1938)

53

16 - 17

Horrific murder, as reported in the Citizen of 1938, with similarities to the Bernard Oliver case of 1967.

NOSTALGIA (50 years ago…)

53

28 - 29

A nice little article about the way we were (and retail prices) in the 1950s.

PRYCE – JONES, COLIN (A Rapier remembers…)

53

33

Guitar maestro Colin Pryce – Jones of the Rapiers recalls happy days backing former RGM acts etc.

RECORDED BUT NOT RELEASED (cf Gerry Harlow)

53

14 - 15

Mark Newson reveals more hidden unreleased gems.

SAGA RECORDS (The early years of the record label)

53

22 - 26

Garth Banks details the background of the early budget label and both his father’s and Joe Meek’s connections with it.

TELSTARS, THE (Another Telstar cover version on a rare LP)

53

31

Who were the Telstars? Why – none other than Bert Kaempfert (of A Swinging Safari fame) and his Orchestra.

WELLS, HOUSTON (A new CD plus a rare photograph)

53

35 - 37

Mark Newson reviews Houston’s brand new CD and reproduces a rare photograph of the Premier Aces. No, not footballers – but an Irish showband. Houston was their lead singer.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BOULEVARDS, THE (Jill & The Boulevards, Pete & The Boulevards – their full story)

52

14 - 18

Mike Lloyd gives a richly detailed account of the band who recorded for both EMI (Norrie Paramor) and RGM (Joe Meek). Fascinating article featuring some great photographs.

DAUPHIN STREET SIX (The story of these Trad Jazzers)

52

34 - 35

JMS Chairman Ken Ledran gives chapter on verse on this much under valued group. The Trad Jazz boom was huge in the early 1960s and Joe had recorded the very best (Ball, Barber & Bilk) in his time.

HALE, NORMAN (The Tornados’ original keyboard player interviewed fro the very first time!)

52

8 - 13

In 2007 Norman Hale made a rare visit to the UK to attend the Joe Meek Fest at Newent. There he was interviewed by Rob Bradford and Ken Ledran. Be prepared for some startling revelations.

HIDDEN TREASURES (A CD of RGM rarities)

52

40

Mark Newson put together a CD of RGM rarities (Tornados, Geoff Goddard etc) culled from impossible to find acetates etc. Wonderful!

HOUSE OF SHATTERING GLASS (Joe Meek’s Lansdowne Days)

52

19

Mark Irwin takes a brief look at the early days of Joe’s recording career.

JOHNNY REMEMBER ME (Interesting views on the classic RGM recording)

52

43

Tom Ewing’s excellent insights vis – a – vis this RGM classic.

JONES, CAROL (Triumph recording artist)

52

25

Mark Newson summarises what little is known about singer Carol Jones – who recorded one RGM single then disappeared forever.

LEE, JAMIE & THE ATLANTICS

52

24

Rare photograph and brief summary of the group – courtesy of Neil Newsome.

MEEK, JOE (Rare acetates)

52

36 - 37

Craig Newton provides some great information on some rare RGM acetates.

MEEK, JOE (Legend of Music)

52

3

A fine summary of Joe’s career from the Forrester paper (18 / 10 / 07)

MEEK, JOE (Joe Meek Newent Fest - 1)

52

4 - 5

Ken Ledran’s splendid account of the 2007 event.

MEEK, JOE (Joe Meek Newent Fest - 2)

52

6 - 7

Craig Newton’s equally splendid account of the 2007 event.

MEEK MAIL

52

44 - 50

Another great selection of news, views, opinions and information.

RIVERS, DANNY (Danny in Norway, 1961!)

52

20 - 21

Svein Sorli provides a unique insight and great photographs re: Danny Rivers Norwegian visit way back in 1961!

SCOPITONE TALES (Unique CD of Scopitone cuts)

52

38 - 39

JMS member Chas Collick has put together a whole CD of unique Scopitone recordings – some with Joe Meek connections. Fascinating!

STATUS QUO (Rockin’ all over RGM)

52

24

Fantastic early photograph plus Mark Newson summarising the group’s pre – Quo Palominos days at 304.

SYNE, THE (Recorded But Not Released)

52

22 - 23

Pete Hurrell tells the full story of yet more unreleased gems lurking amongst those Tea Chests!

TORNADOS STORY – PART 5 (Continuing Robb Huxley’s amazing account)

2

28 - 33

Robb Huxley’s enthralling first – hand account of the latter part of the group’s career. The summer of 1966 is examined in minute detail.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

CATTINI, CLEM (More information on the drumming legend)

51

31 -33

Tom Hammond provides information and a remarkable discography of Clem’s many, many sessions.

CLASSICS, THE (Not the Classics IV of Spooky fame!)

51

50 - 51

Peter O’ Flaherty tells the story of yet another long – forgotten group who recorded for Joe.

CRYIN’ SHAMES, THE (RGM group who fell apart all too soon)

51

14 - 16

Mark Newson examines some of the conflicting stories surrounding the group who provided the very last RGM chart hit.

DANGERFIELD, TONY (R.I.P. Mr Bassman)

51

6 - 12

Mark Newson’s obituary to and story of the wild bassist’s career.

DEXTER, RAY (The rocker returns)

51

28

A recent newspaper interview with the colourful Mr Dexter.

DRUGS, DEATH AND VAL DOONICAN (Are cardigans offensive weapons?)

51

13

Mark Newson takes a look at key musical and social events taking place in 1967.

FLICK, VIC (RGM session man?)

51

17 - 21

Following the hot debate about ‘who played on what’ – Rob Bradford investigates how some of these seemingly untrue claims probably arose.

GODDARD, GEOFF (RGM hero)

51

35

Interesting Geoff Goddard snippets.

LaVERN, ROGER (Tornados keyboard maestro)

51

29

Fascinating newspaper feature about the remarkable Roger LaVern.

MEEK, JOE (Newent Fest 2007)

51

3, 52

Local features about the Newent event.

MEEK, JOE (Spector man?)

51

23

Gaylord Fields examines the Meek / Spector debate.

PACKABEATS, THE (New CD)

51

41

Rob Bradford reviews the Packabeats CD containing a mix of old and new tracks. Excellent!

SCOPITONE NEWS (Early precursors of the video age)

51

37

Chas Collick provides a fascinating summary of many rare Scopitone tracks. He’s compiled many of them onto a CD for all to share.

TELSTAR: THE MOVIE (Stories from the film set)

51

4 - 5

Mark Newson’s unique insights into what went on behind the scenes of the controversial film.

TELSTAR (45 years on)

51

34

A little snippet / collage with regard to Telstar.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

AGM 2007 (All of the information)

50

37 - 41

News and information from the 2007 AGM.

BEATLES, THE ( Connections with Joe Meek)

50

20

Craig Davies looks at the background during 1962.

CLASSICAL CON MAN (William Barrington Coupe’s amazing hoax fooled the Classical music world)

50

11

The strange tale of a remarkable fraud. Concert pianist Joyce Hatto released over 100 Classical recordings masterminded by her husband….William Barrington – Coupe (formerly of Saga!). But all was not quite as it seemed.

DEERSTALKERS & MILLIONAIRES (Information about two RGM groups)

50

18 - 19

Tony Searle provides some interesting information about these two RGM groups.

MEEK, JOE (Joe Meek’s Final Days)

50

3 – 7, 9

40 years after Joe’s death Mark Newson takes a retrospective look over the tragic events of the time and examines some new theories – with startling results. Was Joe murdered by the Kray brothers?

MEEK, JOE (Meek Fest 2007)

50

31 - 36

Views and comments regarding the 40^th Anniversary Concert

MEEK, JOE (Gloucester Exhibition)

50

16 - 17

Comments from the official guest book at the 2007 Gloucester exhibition.

MEEK, JOE (Joe & Phil Spector)

50

21

Various views vis – a – vis Joe Meek / Phil Spector comparisons.

MEEK MAIL (Lots of news, views etc)

50

42 - 51

This section is always worth reading as it is packed with information.

MUSICIANS’ MADNESS (Exactly who did play on some RGM recordings?)

50

14 - 15

Mark Newson examines the claims that session players appeared on some classic RGM recordings.

RETURN TO HOLLOWAY ROAD (David Peters looks back)

50

10

Early in 1966 David Peters visited 304 Holloway Road. In 2007 he returns and reflects on his experiences.

SUITCASE MURDERS (40 years on..)

50

8

An article looking back on a gruesome murder case from 1967.

TORNADOS’ STORY – Part 4 (Robb Huxley’s fascinating series continues)

50

25 - 31

Robb Huxley’s amazingly detailed and personal accounts give us all an amazing insight into the minutiae of life as it really was in the Tornados. It certainly wasn’t all glitz and glamour!

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

AMERICAN / USA RGM DISCOGRAPHY (Nick Garrard’s Tour – de – Force)

20

2- 20

Nick Garrard is an RGM stalwart from the very early days. A huge Joe Meek fan and record collector, Nick did loads of work re: Newsletter / Thunderbolt too. In 1997 he set himself the monumental task of putting together a Stateside RGM discography. Here it is. Excellent research and also filled with great repro labels, pic sleeves, photos and Nick’s wonderful graphics.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

ADAMS, DAVE (An open letter to Dave Adams)

19

30 - 32

Following a lengthy Dave Adams interview – he appeared to change / contradict many of the things he’d previously said to John Repsch. Hence the redoubtable JR penned this most interesting missive.

CADDY, ALAN (A Tornado speaks)

19

13 - 15

Part 3 of John Repsch’s excellent interview with Alan dating from July 1985.

FAMILIAR TO JOE (Joe’s studio equipment explained)

19

26

John O’Kill’s excellent summary of lots of the valve equipment employed by Joe in his studio set up.

MEEK, JOE (The Best Years Of Our Lives)

19

3 -7

Laurence Brown’s masterly and unique article about Joe Meek’s days as ‘FX Man Supreme’ for the May Hill Amateur Dramatic Society in the early 1950s. Such productions as “The Poltergeist” and “The Ghost Train” gave Joe plenty of scope. Marvellous.

MEEK, JOE (A Rewarding Experience)

19

10 - 12

Helen Gilbert – Voss spent a considerable amount of time and effort successfully obtaining Joe’s National Service Medal for the Meek family. A great personal account.

MEEK, JOE (A Life Displayed)

19

16 - 25

A wonderful selection of photographs and memorabilia from the very successful exhibition held at the Lord Nelson. All areas and periods of Joe’s life and career are covered.

MEEK, JOE (What Joe Means To Me)

19

9

John William Jones and Robert Newman recall how they became interested in Joe Meek and what it all means to them.

MEEK, JOE (30 Years On…)

19

35

Mark Newson’s heartfelt poetic tribute to Joe.

MEEKMAIL

19

32 - 34

Another fascinating collection of readers’ letters on a Joe Meek / RGM theme.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

ADAMS, DAVE (Interviewed at Lichfield)

18

3 - 8

Dave Adams was very close to Joe in the pre and early RGM years. During the course of this interview he throws new light on those days.

AUDIO ’96 (A review of this huge event)

18

18 - 19

Many of the Joe Meek audio products were featured at the Kensington Olympia event.

CADDY, ALAN (Interview with the Tornados’ guitarist)

18

13 - 17

Part 2 of John Repsch’s lengthy and informative interview with Alan, dating from July 1985.

FAMILIAR TO JOE (Joe’s studio equipment described)

18

9

The late John O’Kill had a wonderful way of detailing Joe’s studio equipment in a way that ‘lay’ readers could understand and yet was still technical enough for the experts too.

LANSDOWNE STUDIOS (A memorable visit)

18

10 - 11

Members of the JMAS Midlands Branch describe their visit to the legendary studios and their meeting with Adrian Kerridge.

MEEK, JOE (Memories of Joe Meek)

18

20 - 22

Daphne Bonnet shares her memories of Joe and 304, Holloway Road.

MEEK, JOE (Tribute To Joe)

18

27 - 30

Martin Bennett’s epic poem in praise of Joe

MEEKMAIL

18

23 - 25

More pages of views, opinions, questions and answers – all Joe Meek / RGM – related.

MIDDLE EIGHT, THE ( A forgotten group)

18

12

Frank Vericonte tells the all – too – familiar story of a group of youngsters who recorded at 304. Sadly, like so many, their tracks reside amongst the ‘Tea Chests’.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

CADDY, ALAN (Fantastic interview with the Tornados’ guitarist)

17

3 - 10

John Repsch interviewed Alan at great length (5/7/85 – Part 1) and elicited some wonderful anecdotes / information from him.

CATTINI, CLEM (Drumming legend)

17

14 - 15

Tom Hammond’s fact – filled feature on Clem’s career.

HUNT, KEITH ( We’ll Always Remember…Yes, Always.)

17

11

Keith Hunt was a walking Pop Music encyclopaedia and an RGM fanatic. Sadly he passed away in 1996 at the tragically early age of 43.

MEEK, JOE

17

16 -22

A great article about Joe and his influence on sound recording by Dennis Diken (Smithereens’ drummer).

MEEK, JOE (The Joe Meek Story LP)

17

12 - 13

Jim Blake relates the events leading up to the very first Joe Meek / RGM retrospective LP from way back in 1977.

MEEKMAIL

17

30 - 34

Another fascinating cornucopia of news, views and trivia.

OUTLAWS, THE (Light blue touch paper and retire…!)

17

23 - 29

Part 2 of John Repsch’s fascinating interview (31/7/85) with the hilarious, irreverent and volatile group members.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

JMAS RADIO LIBRARY (Down In The Vaults)

16

22

Steve Fay did an enormous amount of work on the Radio Library and he details some of the gems residing there.

JMAS PHOTO ALBUM

16

13 - 15

Various photos from various society events (Newent 1991, Book Launch etc., etc.)

MEEK, JOE (Last Train To Meeksville)

16

18 - 19

Renowned author Irwin Chusid presents his unique survey of Joe’s influence re: recorded sound.

MEEKMAIL

16

29 - 34

Great selection of letters and replies – thereby containing lots of RGM – related facts and trivia.

OUTLAWS, THE (Explosive interviews!)

16

3 - 12

John Repsch must have had great difficulty keeping things on track. On July 31^st 1985 he interviewed the legendary group. Fascinating and outrageous comments abound!

RGM REVIEWS

16

20 - 21

Includes Dave Adams CD, Heinz CD etc., etc.

SHEFFIELD INTERVIEW, THE (Numerous RGM acts hold forth!)

16

23 - 28

A wide – ranging open interview conducted in Sheffield. David John, Dave Millen (Puppets) and Brian Woods (Wild Boys etc) were amongst those present.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

CAVEAT EMPTOR (Beware of RGM fakes)

15

33 - 35

Mark Newson’s excellent exposition on how to tell genuine RGM discs / acetates from fakes. There are still many unscrupulous individuals / dealers trying to defraud collectors.

FLEE – REKKERS (The Flees speak!)

15

16 - 27

Wonderful interview (+ featurettes) with the Fabulous Flees, crammed full of information.

JMAS PHOTO ALBUM

15

3 -6

Interesting photos from the Joe Meek book launch, return to 304 Holloway Road etc., etc.

JMAS PHOTO LIBRARY / SHOP (RGM Stars abound)

15

12 - 13

The society used to run a photo shop (193 pictures at the time). Fascinating to see what was available in days gone by.

MEEK, JOE (Joe Meek voice channel)

15

14 - 15

Another great audio device inspired by Joe’s own 1960s equipment.

MEEK, JOE (A personal poem)

15

11

‘Why Do We All Love Joe’? A lovely poem by Geoff Woodley.

MEEKMAIL

15

28 - 32

Another great selection of letters and replies. So much information contained therein.

ONE HUNDRED (100) CLUB (The early days recalled)

15

8 - 11

The early days of the 100 Club are recalled by Trad giants messrs Ball, Barber & Bilk (all of whom were recorded by Joe).

RADIO LUXEMBOURG (‘The Station of the Stars’ indeed!

15

6 -7

Before Pirate Radio, the notorious (reception – wise) ‘Luxy’ was essential listening for Pop – starved teens. Their Christmas Annuals were superb. Pages with RGM refs are reproduced here.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

HOLDER, PETER & ROGER (The ‘New’ Tornados interviewed)

14

22 - 34

John Repsch interviewed the Holder Brothers at some length way back in 1983. Priceless information as well as reproductions of several letters written by Joe.

LEYTON, JOHN

14

19

A newspaper article covering various aspects of John’s life / career.

MEEK, JOE (The Joe Meek Compressor)

14

16 - 17

A review of the critically acclaimed compressor – plus, a brief interview with Ted Fletcher.

MEEK, JOE (RGM memories)

14

42

John Moorhouse’s (‘It Takes Me Back To Blackpool) personal RGM memories from the early days.

MEEKMAIL

14

37 - 41

Another fascinating treasure trove of views and information.

WELLS, HOUSTON (Ballad of Joe’s Black Gold)

14

10 - 11

The much missed Keith Hunt delineates Andy Smith’s (aka Houston Wells) career.

WOODS, BRIAN (A Wild Boy Harks Back…)

14

3 - 7

Brian Wood played guitar for Freddie Starr and Heinz amongst others. He tells some great stories from those times and there are wonderful photos too.

SUTCH, SCREAMING LORD

14

18

Interesting newspaper feature about his crazy Lordship.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BELLAMY, JEAN (George Bellamy’s ex- wife interviewed)

13

40 - 42

The former wife of the original Tornados rhythm guitarist talks about his life and career.

BLAKE, JIM (Once Upon A Time….)

13

12

Jim Blake founded the original RGMAS on the day Joe died. Here he describes how he built up an impressive collection of RGM discs.

JMAS – ROLL OF HONOUR (RGM Heroes)

13

16 - 17

Many former RGM Artists were ‘inducted’ into our very own ‘Hall Of Fame’. Here’s a nice selection of facsimile autographs etc.

JMAS – PHOTO GALLERY (The Usual Suspects!)

13

10 - 11

An interesting selection of photos drawn from various events. A mixture of RGM stars and society members.

MEEK, JOE (stereo compressor)

13

20 - 21

In the early 1990s a whole range of recording equipment was launched, based around the RGM sound. Here’s all the technical low down.

MEEK, JOE (Ian Graham reflects)

13

34

Member Ian Graham recalls why Joe Meek is so special to him and how it all began.

MEEK, JOE (The Legend of Joe Meek)

13

29 - 33

Mike Stax’s masterly overview of Joe Meek’s career and influence.

MEEKMAIL

13

34 - 39

As usual – an amazing collection of news, views and information.

PARKER, JOHNNY (Piano legend – Bad Penny Blues)

13

9

Johnny Parker recalls the Bad Penny Blues session and talks about Joe.

RGM REVIEWS

13

13 - 15

A mix of reviews (Solid Gold 60s / JMAS Xmas show, Tornados CD etc)

RICHARDS, HARVEY (Joe’s last MD speaks)

13

3 - 7

Fascinating interview with Harvey Richards who worked with Joe during the last four months of his life. Includes a copy of the very last letter that Joe ever sent.

RIOT SQUAD, THE (Interview from 1994)

13

22 - 25

Lots of wonderful information and photographs from this interview with the band members.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BARBER IN BERLIN (A jazz classic reissued)

12

8

A great LP and one of Joe Meek’s most amazing feats of live engineering.

BLUE MEN, THE (I Hear A New World)

12

4

Mike Stax discusses the group and I Hear A New World.

COLLINS, GLENDA (Vastly underrated female RGM vocalist)

12

15

The late Mick Hill (Rock You Sinners magazine) sums up Glenda’s career perfectly.

DALY, BRYAN (Guitarist with Johnny Duncan & The Bluegrass Boys reminisces)

12

6 - 7

Better known nowadays for Postman Pat, Bryan Daly was a serious musician in the 1950s. He talks to John Repsch about his dealings with Joe Meek.

DANNY’S PASSION (Cornish boys visit 304 Holloway Road)

12

12 - 13

David Peters (now a JMS stalwart) was the teenaged manager of the Undecided from Falmouth. In 1966 they travelled up to London to meet Joe Meek.

DUNCAN, JOHNNY (Last Train To San Fernando – Yee - haw! Yup! Engineered by Joe)

12

4 - 5

Brian Woods relates some interesting facts and talks to former Blue Grass Boys Denny Wright & Jack Fallon.

FAMILIAR TO JOE (More equipment from 304 Holloway Road)

12

3

John O’Kill expertly describes more of the recording equipment to be found in Joe’s studio.

HONEYCOMBS, THE – 30 YEARS (1994 saw the 30^th anniversary of the group’s inception)

12

11*, 22 - 25

Matthew Coxall (Honey’s son) surveys the group’s career and 1994 reunion. George Stapley reports on their reunion show at the Mildmay Tavern*.

MEEK, JOE – JOE MEEK SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH (Simon Goddard’s unique art house film)

12

11

Philip Hutchinson guides us through Simon Goddard’s unusual and unique film tribute to Jo’s life and work.

MEEK, JOE – LONELY JOE (Radio 4 dramatisation)

12

10

Jim Blake takes the BBC to task for their flawed portrayal of Joe in a BBC play.

MEEKMAIL

12

33 - 39

More fascinating pages of readers’ letters and informative replies.

SHELTON, ANNE (The ‘Forces Favourite’ with Joe Meek connections)

12

20 - 21

The late Keith Hunt (+ The Times) pay tribute to Anne Shelton who passed away in 1994. Joe, of course, engineered Lay Down Your Arms.

TELSTAR – INSTRUMENTAL VERSIONS (50 and still growing!)

12

43

John MacElhone’s brilliant early effort to catalogue all known versions of Telstar.

THORN, GUNILLA (The Merry Go Round girl speaks)

12

27 - 32

John Repsch talks to Gunilla Thorn and Jan Oloffson about her time at 304 Holloway Road.

TORNADOS, THE – CAREER OVERVIEW (Mike Stax checks out the Telstar hit makers)

12

40 - 41

Ugly Things editor Mike Stax guides us through the main career highlights 1961 – 1966.

TORNADOS, THE – RECORDING PERSONNEL (Who did play on “Granada”? and more!)

12

42

Mick Mirams’ sterling efforts to list out who exactly played on all of the Tornados’ various releases.

TORNADOS, THE – TELSTAR EP (an early RGM CD reissue)

12

10

Terry Custance reviews the first ever reissue of the classic EP on CD.

TRIUMPH SESSIONS – WORK IN PROGRESS (Fascinating CD containing much previously unreleased material)

12

9 - 10

Philip Hutchinson’s excellent review of a splendid CD crammed full of unreleased gems plus a few turkeys.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BENNETT, BRIAN (Shadow and Krew Kat at 304 Holloway Road)

11

16

Rob Bradford interviews the drumming legend about his brief stint at 304 Holloway Road in 1961.

CHRIS & THE STUDENTS (Trad jazzers interviewed by John Repsch)

11

22 -24

An interesting account about the group’s days recording with Joe Meek.

DOWLANDS, THE (RGM’s answer to the Everly Brothers)

11

17

Soundtracks’ drummer Chris Warman recalls his days backing the Dowlands.

FAMILIAR TO JOE (Joe’s studio equipment)

11

13 & 27

John O’ Kill expertly annotates some of the recording equipment to be found at 304 Holloway Road.

MEEK, ERIC (An interview with Joe’s brother)

11

3 - 5

Ian Watson recalls his meeting with Eric Meek, which includes some typically forthright and outspoken remarks.

MEEKMAIL

11

28 - 31

Several pages of interesting letters and replies from JMAS members.

PLAQUE CEREMONY + GIG (304 Holloway Road makes history)

11

18 - 21

4 pages of photographs from the historic plaque unveiling ceremony and the memorable gig which followed it.

READER, PAT (Triumph label singer)

11

25

Mark Newson reviews Pat Reader’s career in pop music

RGM LIQUIDATION SALE 1968

11

32 - 34

Documents and an annotated list relating to the disposal of Joe’s personal and studio effects in 1968.

RGM WORLDWIDE SUCCESSES

11

8 - 9

Kim Pavey provides some facts and figures re: some of Joe’s most successful RGM releases.

SYNDICATS, THE (Wild Meek Freakbeat group!)

11

10 - 12

Terry Gibson interviews drummer Paul Holm about his days with the Syndicats (with thanks to Mike Stax).

TEA CHEST TAPES – PART 3 (‘Forgotten Masters’ in those tapes)

11

6 - 7

Alan Blackburn’s brilliant series re: unreleased RGM material continues. Outstanding – but too short!

THORN, GUNILLA (A cartoon classic!)

11

15

A personal cartoon from Gunilla Thorn depicting the recording of “Merry Go Round”

TORNADOS, THE (Pop Weekly article)

11

14

An article from January 1963 following the release of Globetrotter.

WELLS, HOUSTON (The Search For Houston Wells)

11

35

Houston Wells had seemingly disappeared for nearly 40 years. Noel Laverty describes early attempts to trace him.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

A BRICK ONCE THROWN

(Perceptive look at Joe’s changeable mental state)

10

6 - 7

Helen Gilbert Voss sensitively explores aspects of Joe’s state of mind and mental health especially during 1966 / 67.

A LOOK INSIDE 304

(One of Joe’s former assistants recalls 304 in 1964)

10

24 -26

Joe’s former office boy / studio assistant Roger Harris is interviewed by Mike Stax and Mark Neil. Fascinating first – hand insights.

ARISTOCRATS, THE

(Unreleased 304 tracks)

10

3

Mark Newson tells the story of one of the last groups to record at 304.

BARBECUES, THE – PART 2

(Peter Couzens recalls his Skiffle and 304 days)

10

8 -9

More pages from John Repsch’s exhaustive book interviews with Peter Couzens of the Barbecues.

BERRY, MIKE

10

28 - 29

A lengthy press article about Mike Berry during the time of 1993’s Telstar Tour

DEATH DISCS

(Alan Clayson’s classic tome discussed)

10

12

Alan Clayson’s epic book about ‘Mortality In The Popular Song’. Plenty of RGM contenders. Kim Pavey offers up an insightful review.

DROVERS, THE

(Unreleased 304 tracks)

10

3

Mark Newson tells the stories behind the group’s 1964 visit to 304 Holloway Road.

FAMILIAR TO JOE

(Expert’s resume of equipment in Joe’s studio)

10

16 - 17

Recording expert John O’Kill summarises a lot of the important recording equipment found within the walls of 304 Holloway Road.

LEYTON, JOHN

(1962 article)

10

30

An interesting item about John Leyton from the N.M.E. of May, 1962.

MEEK, JOE (How it all began for me…3 JMAS stalwarts relate how their interest in RGM / Joe Meek began

10

10 - 11

Mark Cunliffe, Chris Davies and Darren Vidler tell the interesting stories behind their initial ‘discovery’ of Joe Meek and his wonderful recordings.

MEEK MAIL

10

18 - 21

Lots of interesting letters (and replies) from JMAS members.

POETS’ CORNER (JMAS members’ poetic tributes to Joe)

#10

14

Mark Newson and P J Fuller with their very own ‘odes’ to Joe.

SANDS, WES

#10

4

An old (but interesting) cutting about Clive Sarstedt (aka Wes Sands)

TEA CHEST TAPES – PART 2

(More ‘Forgotten Masters’)

#10

5

Alan Blackburn with an all too brief feature about the legendary tape archive.

TELSTAR TOUR

#10

27

1993 article about the Telstar Tour and promoter Mark Lundquist.

TEMPLE, GERRY – PART 3

#10

22

Alan Blackburn concludes his story about Gerry Temple’s career.

THAT WAS THE WEEK THAT WAS

(Keith Hunt’s musical memories)

#10

28

The late, and sadly missed, Keith Hunt reminiscing about being behind the scenes at the Telstar Tour.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BARBECUES, THE

(Skiffling interview)

9

5- 7

John Repsch’s book interviews with Peter Cozens of the Barbecues. Sizzlin’ Hot indeed.

DEFINITELY NOT THE TELSTAR MAN

(Impossible to recreate RGM sound?)

9

10

JMAS member Philip Hutchinson describes his adventures in sound recording whilst attempting to emulate Joe Meek.

INSTRUMENTALLY YOURS

(What audiences really want)

9

10

Roger Smith talks to audience members following a Telstar Tour show in 1993.

MEEKMAIL

9

11 - 15

Several pages of very interesting readers’ letters (and the replies to many of them).

RGM DISCOGRAPHY UPDATE (1993 additions)

9

8

Sixteen additions to the then known RGM Discography. Still a ‘work in progress’ but the vast majority of RGM tracks were known by this time.

RGM SOUNDALIKES #2

9

9

Chris Davies looks at seven singles with a sort of RGM sound about them.

TEACHEST TAPES

(Alan Blackburn’s fascinating account)

9

3 - 4

Alan Blackburn (the only person to have heard all of Joe’s surviving tapes) provides unique inside information re: ‘Forgotten Masters’.

TEMPLE, GERRY – Part 2

9

16

Alan Blackburn concludes his account of Gerry’s (aka Keith De Groot) career.

TRIUMPH DOCUMENTS

(John Repsch presents historic ephemera)

9

18 - 31

John Repsch reproduces a dozen or so fascinating full - sized facsimilies of documents relating to the founding of Triumph Records in 1960.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

1963 (A very brief look at key events of the year)

8

20

Some major sociological and musical events of the year.

HEINZ (Great photograph on the set of RSG! from 1965)

8

30

A full page photograph from 1965 from the set of Ready, Steady, Go! In shot are Heinz, The Wild Boys, Tom Jones, Jack Good and Cathy McGowan. Superb!

HOLLOWAY ROAD (304)

(From Bank to Bike shop – the fight to preserve the site of Joe’s studio)

8

4 - 6

Back in 1991 / 1992 there was an outside chance of preserving the site of 304 as a Joe Meek museum. It all eventually fell through. John Repsch depicts the sequence of events and the stories behind them.

JOY & DAVE ADAMS (Alan Blackburn covers their careers up to 1963 / 64).

8

29

Alan Blackburn continues his account about the lives and recording careers of Joe’s teenage protégés. Focussing upon Burr Bailey and Silas Dooley Jnr!

LEGENDARY JOE MEEK (THE) – THE TELSTAR MAN (biography). Fascinating text cut from the final draft.

8

21 - 23

John Repsch had to cut back the huge amount of information assembled for the book. Here are three pages of text which didn’t make it to the final draft. Lots more fascinating information here!

MEEK, JOE (Photograph of Joe plus assorted cuttings)

8

31

A great portrait of Joe plus a collection of cuttings reflecting people’s reaction to his death.

MEEK, JOE (Meek memories -keeping Joe’s memory alive)

8

24

A local paper (Yeovil) runs a little feature about four RGM members (Dave Baxter, Robert Inkpen, John Norman & Andy Steele) who were helping to keep Joe’s memory alive way back in 1992.

NEWENT (Special weekend in 1992 commemorating Joe Meek)

8

11 - 13

A feature devoted to the activities of October, 1992 when a plaque commemorating Joe’s birth was unveiled in Newent.

NEWENT (Local newspaper articles relating to the above event)

8

16 - 17

Reprints of various pages from the Gloucester Citizen reporting on Joe and events in Newent during 1992.

NEWENT (Photos of Newent)

8

5

A selection of Newent photographic prints

PUPPETS, THE

(Profile of the RGM group)

8

6

A cutting from the Record Mirror (21 / 9 / 63) charting the background of the band from their early days in Preston to 304 Holloway Road.

REQUIESCAT IN PACE

(Poem read at Joe’s graveside)

8

14

Matthew Arnold’s moving ode to the departed. This was read at Joe’s graveside by Mark Newson during the special Joe Meek weekend at Newent in October, 1992. Photograph included.

RGM TRACKS – READERS’ TOP 10#4 (More favourite and least favourite tracks)

8

18 - 19

The first Readers’ Top 10 tracks of 1993. Favourite – Telstar. Least favourite – You’ve Got To Have A Gimmick Today (Checkmates).

TEMPLE, GERRY (RGM artiste)

(First part of an interview with Gerry who spent a lot of time at 304)

#8

3

Titled ‘Alive and Kicking’ – Alan Blackburn tracks down and talks to Gerry Temple (aka Keith De Groot) who spent quite a bit of time at 304 shortly after Joe opened the studio.

WARLEY LEA FARM#2

(More strange happenings at the sinister farm + Joe Meek’s visit there.)

#8

32 - 33

RGM songwriter / artist and Joe’s confidant Tony Grinham (Tony Kaye) relates further disturbing incidents at the abandoned Warley Lea (near Brentwood) Farm. Plus…what happened when Joe Meek went there in 1966.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

BARRY, JOHN

(RGM connections in the 1960s)

7

35 - 36

Joe Meek and John Barry worked briefly together in 1959 on Lance Fortune’s Be Mine and Joe later employed JB7 guitarist Vic Flick on many a session. Geoff Leonard explores the background in great detail.

DANGERFIELD, TONY

(A Savage recalls his 304 days)

7

37 - 38

John Repsch’s book interview concentrates upon Joe’s plan to launch Tony as a solo artist and goes into great detail about Joe’s deep personal (not sexual) friendship with Tony Dangerfield.

GODDARD, GEOFF

(Brief profile of RGM’s main songwriter)

7

29

Mark Newson briefly reviews Geoff’s RGM career and recalls a day that he spent chatting with Geoff at his Reading home.

GRAY, LISSA

(The lead voice of the RGM ‘Heavenly Choir’)

7

24 - 25

Mike Guy interviews Lissa Gray about her RGM sessions. Very useful first – hand background information. In 2008 Lissa Gray was still directing the Hampshire Youth Choir.

HODGES, CHAS

(Review of Chas’s autobiography)

7

46

The Rock’ n’ Roll Years – Chas Before Dave is a brilliant memoir of Chas Hodges’ early career in music. Naturally – RGM / Joe Meek stories / memories abound. Richard Myers is the reviewer.

I HEAR A NEW WORLD

(Ultra rare Triumph Records LP in stereo)

7

27 - 28

Rob Bradford examines Joe’s early ambient / Avant - Garde masterpiece in minute detail – drawing on a variety of sources for his track analysis.

JOY & DAVE ADAMS

(The teenage sister and brother’s RGM career)

7

19 - 20

Alan Blackburn presents a very detailed account of the lives and musical career of the teenage duo and then Dave’s subsequent solo days at RGM.

MEEK, JOE - TECHNICAL

(Ken Brown’s masterly survey of Joe’s recording equipment)

7

6 - 11

A brilliant and lengthy article covering many technical aspects of Joe’s recording techniques and a detailed overview of Joe’s studio equipment. Fully illustrated too.

OUTLAWS, THE

(Dream Of The West CD review)

7

26

The vastly underrated LP had been out of print for nearly 30 years before it was finally reissued on CD. Rob Bradford examines the stories behind the tracks in some detail.

RGM INSTRUMENTAL TRACKS

(Mike Stax looks at 80 or so of Joe’s instrumental recordings)

7

39 - 43

Joe produced hundreds of outstanding instrumentals. Here, Ugly Things editor Mike Stax takes an intriguing look at c. 80 or so RGM instrumentals throwing up lots of interesting facts along the way.

RGM TRACKS (Readers’ Top 10 #3)

7

21 - 22

More Top 10 Favourite RGM tracks (as well as least favourites too!) from Thunderbolt readers.

RGM TRACKS ( Readers’ Top 10 – year end results)

7

23

Alan Blackburn compiled all of the readers’ votes of the previous year to produce the Ultimate RGM Top 10 chart. Not surprisingly Telstar comes out at No.1. The No.1 least favourite track was The Checkmates’ You Got To Have A Gimmick Today.

RIVERS, DANNY

(Keith Hunt profiles Danny’s singing career)

7

4 - 5

The late Keith Hunt (Johnny Kidd’s biographer) profiles the early life and musical career of Danny Rivers. The feature is accompanied by two great early photos of Danny.

SUTCH, SCREAMING LORD

(Life As Sutch book review)

7

46

Ann Tydeman reviews an early ghost – written Sutch ‘autobiography’ by Peter Chippendale. Prolific author Alan Clayson was originally assigned to the project but abandoned it in despair at Sutch’s antics. The book is nowhere near as good as Graham Sharpe’s definitive tome from 2005.

TELSTAR – SATELLITE

(7 pages of contemporary cuttings etc., from 1962)

7

12 - 18

Back in July 1962 the launch of Telstar was an international phenomenon. The UK was no exception. 7 pages of reprints of fascinating articles / facts from all those years ago.

THORNE, GUNILLA

(Profile of one of Joe’s girl singers)

7

3

Ian Oloffson recalls his early visits to London and meetings with Joe Meek to launch the recording career of RGM starlet Gunilla Thorne. Interesting reading.

WARLEY LEA FARM#1

(Creepy and eerie haunted location – later visited by Joe Meek)

7

44 - 45

Tony Grinham ( Joe Meek artiste and friend of Joe -Tony Kaye) writes a spine – chilling account of his first visit to the decidedly creepy / spooky / eerie abandoned Warley Lea Farm in Essex. He experienced some frightening moments there – yet still returned (along with Joe Meek) the following year.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

ADAMS, DAVE (First – hand tales)

6

25 - 27

Dave Adams’ personal account of his very first meeting with Joe and detailed memories of recording at Arundel Gardens with his sister, Joy Adams.

CHARLES, DON (‘’Ullo Joe…you gotta new motor?’)

6

27

How To Buy A Used Car And Save Money - This very useful book is reviewed by Mark Newson. Don had a variety of jobs after quitting the music business – including a used car salesman. Don wrote this book based on his experiences in the motor trade. Much of his advice is as relevant today as it was in 1992!

DANGERFIELD, TONY (A forthright interview)

6

31 - 33

Sometimes dubbed ‘The Wild man Of Rock’. Savages (and sometime Meek solo artist) bassist Tony Dangerfield certainly lived life on the edge until his recent death. Here’s a very wide – ranging, no holds barred, interview from from August 1983. Another gem from John Repsch.

HEINZ (The ‘White Tornado’)

6

28 - 29

A great account of Heinz’s early career (unique information here) and his wild stage antics. Much of this is based on first – hand observations. The author is the late Keith Hunt.

JAMES BOYS, THE (Neglected RGM group)

6

5 - 7

Michael Batory recalls the group’s days at 304 Holloway Road and his subsequent ‘career’ as an RGM songwriter. Lots of first – hand information. The group’s version of The Wilbur Brothers’ Knoxville Girl was banned by the BBC.

LYNNE, JEFF (Mr Blue Sky..)

6

8

The former Idle Race, Move & ELO musician / producer talks about his unstinting admiration of Joe Meek

MEEK, JOE (Ode to Joe)

6

24

The Light In Joe’s Eyes. A moving poetic tribute by Helen Gilbert - Voss

RGM TRACKS (Readers’ Top 10 #2)

6

30

Another instalment of JMAS members listing their personal Top 10 favourite RGM tracks as well as a Top 10 least favourites too!

ROSTILL, JOHN (The future Shadows bassist almost joined the Tornados)

6

36

Laurence Brown reviews Rob Bradford’s biography of the late John Rostill. John went on to join The Shadows. However, he had previously auditioned for Joe Meek and was under consideration to play bass for The Tornados shortly after Heinz’s departure.

SCORPIONS, THE (Their RGM story at last)

6

3 - 4

The Scorpions recorded some excellent tracks for Joe under the guise of The Ferridays. These rarities remained unreleased for over 30 years. Alan Blackburn details their history, providing great RGM background information in the process.

SUITCASE MURDERS, THE (Horrific unsolved murder of a ‘Rent Boy’ known to Joe)

6

12 - 18

Gruesome and horrific contemporary accounts surrounding the grisly murder of London ‘Rent Boy’ Bernard Oliver in January, 1967. His dismembered and mutilated remains were dumped in a Suffolk field contained in two suitcases. At the time Joe Meek was worried that he could be implicated in the enquiry – as he certainly knew of the boy.

SUTCH, SCREAMING LORD (His brief career as a Pirate DJ)

6

9 - 11

1964 saw the rise of the so – called ‘Pirate Radio’ stations. Never one to shun publicity – Screaming Lord Sutch teamed up with svengali / entrepreneur Reg Calvert (who was soon afterwards shot dead by a business rival) to launch Radio Sutch. The station was based in an old maritime fort just off the coast of Whitstable. Stefan Woroniecki tells the full story in some detail.

WAYNE, RICKY (Early Triumph star)

6

19 - 20

Ricky Wayne went on to become a future Mr Universe. He was handsome and he was a passable singer. Alan Blackburn tells the story of how the combination of The Fabulous Flee – Rekkers and a certain Joe Meek helped to transform young Ricky in a Triumph Records recording star.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

ADAMS, DAVE (One of Joe’s ‘Right Hand ‘ men)

5

6 - 7

Alan Blackburn takes a detailed look at the early career of Dave Adams. A versatile singer and instrumentalist, Dave was also a useful carpenter and did a lot of the fitting out at 304 Holloway Road. Joy Adams is also featured.

CATTINI, CLEM (more reflections and observations from Clem)

5

27 - 29

The John Repsch book interviews. John interviewed hundreds of Joe’s artists whilst researching The Legendary Joe Meek – The Telstar Man. Here’s Part 3 of a very lengthy interview with Clem.

FABULOUS FLEE – REKKERS (A much underrated RGM instrumental group)

5

17

To coincide with the LP / CD reissue of most of their recordings, the late Keith Hunt (Johnny Kidd’s biographer) offers up an interview with Peter Fleerackers.

FANZINES

5

18 - 20

John Repsch takes a comprehensive look at 15 different Fanzines covering 50s / 60s music.

I HEAR A NEW WORLD

(Ultra rare Triumph Records’ LP in stereo)

5

14 - 17

Back in 1991 – very few people had actually heard Joe’s early Avant Garde masterpiece until it was finally issued on RPM records. Also, at that time, stereo LP recordings were still extremely rare. Philip Hutchinson offers a masterly assessment spread over 3 pages.

MEEK, JOE (Meek Memories - A former RGM artist discusses interests that he shared with Joe Meek)

5

21

Tony Grinham (Tony Kaye) became a close confidant of Joe Meek. Here he tells us about teaching Joe to paint as well as wandering around graveyards etc with Joe in true ‘Most Haunted’ fashion. Eerie!

MEEK, JOE (Meek Memories - Hinton Sheryn recalls visits to 304 and meetings with Joe’s family)

5

22 - 24

Hinton Sheryn was a legendary figure in the early JMAS days and had close tornados connections too. Here he offers a fascinating insight into an early visit to 304 Holloway Road and his various meetings with Joe’s relatives.

RGM – GENERAL (Miscellaneous cuttings)

5

11

A page of cuttings / clippings relating to various RGM acts.

RGM SOUNDALIKES (From the sublime to the ridiculous)

5

8 - 10

Laurence Brown’s excellent article about the many groups, singers and labels who attempted to emulate that RGM sound. 30 tracks are covered (15 vocal, 15 instrumental) ranging from “Stormy Evening” to “Concerto In The Stars” and all points in between.

RGM TOP 10

(Reader’ Favourites)

5

12 -13

In this issue readers were invited to send in their ‘Favourite’ and ‘Least Favourite’ Top 10 RGM productions. 7 voters this issue. Overall favourite: Telstar (Tornados) & Least Favourite – Eyes (Honeycombs)

TORNADOS, THE (The end is nigh!)

#5

3 - 5

A brilliant series – ‘Tornado Trails’ – this is Part 4 (the final part) by Alan Blackburn. Enormously detailed. This issue covers the years 1965 - 1967 when The Saxons evolved into The Tornados.

TORNADOS, THE (Comments and observations)

#5

25 - 26

Mick Mirams offers up some useful information mostly connected with The Tornados and then ranging over other RGM acts.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

CATTINI, CLEM (More anecdotes and insight from Clem)

4

20

The John Repsch book interviews. John interviewed hundreds of Joe’s artists whilst researching The Legendary Joe Meek – The Telstar Man. Here’s Part 2 of a very lengthy interview with Clem. This part focuses on Telstar.

CHRISTIAN, CHAD (Not to be confused with Chad Carson!)

4

19

Daily Mirror cutting from 1964. Chad Christian was actually a very personable young girl. Nice pic of her with Heinz!

FEBRUARY 3^rd 1967 (A contemporary account of that tragic day)

4

15

Reprint of an article from The Islington Gazette of the day. John Repsch comments on some inaccuracies.

GIRL SINGERS – RGM (Information on lots of female singers)

4

22 - 26

A great Jim Blake feature focussing on ‘Joe’s Girls’. Jim examines the careers and recordings of Joy Adams, Pamela Blue, Judy Cannon, Glenda Collins, Billie Davis, Honey Lantree, Jennifer Moss, Kim Roberts, Gunilla Thorne…and more.

MEEK, JOE ( The BBC TV Arena Documentary 1991)

4

5 - 13

The much - vaunted BBC Arena documentary aired in February 1991. It sparked off a media avalanche. Presented here are 9 pages of cuttings / clippings devoted to Joe Meek.

MEEK, JOE (Meek Memories - how a dedicated RGM fan built up his record collection)

4

18 - 19

Graham Winsor outlines his admiration of Joe and how he went about building up his RGM record collection. Lovely snapshots of social history too.

RGM singles B – sides (Some great neglected tracks)

4

14

Alan Blackburn takes a look at some of those superb RGM recordings tucked away on the back of the better known A – sides. Cool Water, My Baby Doll, Pinto, North Wind, West Point….and more! (11 tracks are considered)

TORNADOS, THE (Behind the scenes stories abound)

4

3 - 4

A brilliant series – ‘Tornado Trails’ – this is Part 3 by Alan Blackburn. Enormously detailed. This issue covers the year 1965 in great depth. There’s also a very informative Tornados – related letter from Mick Mirams on pages 16 – 17.

ARTIST / TITLE

ISSUE No.

PAGE/S

NOTES

CATTINI, CLEM( A true drumming legend)

3

18 - 23

The John Repsch book interviews. John interviewed hundreds of Joe’s artists whilst researching The Legendary Joe Meek – The Telstar Man. Here’s Part 1 of a very lengthy interview with Clem. Crammed with amazing facts and anecdotes.

DEATH DISCS (Very popular genre of yesteryear)

3

6 - 9

Songs Of Death. Joe was obsessed with the occult & the paranormal. Here, Jim Blake expertly analyses twenty or so RGM ‘Death Discs’ and comments upon similar records of the early 1960s era.

FEBRUARY 3^rd (‘On This Day’…)

3

12 - 15