At Their Very Best - and Foot Tapper

[howarddobson]

Dear All

I had a fresh listen to the At Their Very Best album this last few weeks. I know it's rerecordings and doesn't capture the times etc - but I found myself really liking it. It gave an alternative take, capturing their mature sound, etc, and I especially loved Bruce's rhythm guitar. Sounded so crisp and energetic. As we approach the final Shadowmania, I'd recommend it as a great album for listening to Bruce.

I don't like the new versions of Deer Hunter and Argentina as much - too heavy on the bass - but overall a great album.

One question though - when I compared with 20 Golden Greats, Foot Tapper on 20 GG sounded like a different take/mix to the single. Am I right or was it just my imagination?

H

[Fenderman]

I think the version of 'Genie.....' on 'At their very best' is better than the original version.

[Didier]

One question though - when I compared with 20 Golden Greats, Foot Tapper on 20 GG sounded like a different take/mix to the single. Am I right or was it just my imagination?

There was two different versions of Foot Taper, one which was used for the single (recorded on 8/1/63), and the other one used for the album (Summer Holiday soundtrack, recorded on 10/12/62), I guess that the one on 20 GG is the one from the album. I have not checked. Anyhow, all tracks on 20 GG were more or less "remastered".

Didier

[iefje]

The version of "Foot Tapper" on the 1977 vinyl album "20 Golden Greats" is the number 1 hit single version, as recorded on the 8th of January, 1963, although not in mono or stereo, but in mock stereo, a mix specially made by Bruce. The 1987 CD issue of "20 Golden Greats" actually features the stereo mix of the hit single version. I have to admit, that I like the album/EP version of "Foot Tapper" better. It's a little rougher and more spontaneous, than the more polished hit single version. The stereo sound mix is also better than that of the hit single version. Brian's bass for instance, is much more forward in the mix.