Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side Of The Moon SACD finally reissued

New book: “The Development of Large Rock Sound Systems” – Chris Hewitt

Recently published is The Development of Large Rock Sound Systems, Chris Hewitt’s homage to the development of amplified sound systems spearheaded by Charlie Watkins whose company, WEM (Watkins Electric Music) was synonymous with the supply of PA systems to a raft of artists and festivals through the 1960s and 70s. You need to have a basic understanding of the principals behind amplified sound systems to get a grasp on this book because it not only traces the history of sound systems but the individual components that made up those systems. It can get quite technically overwhelming but it is strangely compelling, not least because its author is a hugely enthusiastic authority, but is also a world renowned collector of vintage PA equipment. So much so that Chris has supplied his equipment for films including the recreation of the Live Aid stage for Bohemian Rhapsody and scenes in Elton John’s biopic Rocketman and more recently a recreation of David Bowie’s infamous July 1973 concert at Hammersmith Odeon for the soon to be released Sex Pistols film by Danny Boyle. (I’ll leave you to work out the connection.) Watkins began the design and manufacture of amplifiers, mixing desks and speakers in the early 1960s when pop music was on an upward trajectory and venues were becoming ever bigger which in turn demanded better equipment. It was also surprising to learn how late in the day stage monitors became the norm. Watkins, however, made a critical business error at the very outset – he thought that supplying the artists with his equipment for free – emblazoned with the recognisable red WEM logo – would encourage retail sales to would-be musicians. It is hardly surprising then that many acts took advantage of that offer – and not least Pink Floyd, but it ultimately became his downfall as other companies began making their own mark, including Marshall, Allen & Heath and Martin to name a few which ultimately spelt WEMs demise. Unsurprisingly, WEM also spearheaded the supply of PA systems to the burgeoning festival scene and supplied systems to the early NJF at Sunbury, Windsor and Plumpton; all the Hyde Park free festivals; Isle of Wight and Bath. For anyone interested in that scene alone this book is a must with plenty of rare photos – some of which that defy today’s health and safety regulations!

Roger Waters: Us + Them coming to digital next month

Good news for all those who have been patiently waiting for news of the domestic release of the concert film 'Roger Waters: Us + Them' – the digital release of this has just been announced.The film documents the 156 date 2017-2018 tour which played to a combined audience of 2.3 million across a number of countries, and was quite an incredible spectacle, coupled with a great set list and a powerful message at the heart of it all.The review by BD's Ed Lopez-Reyes (movies/roger-waters-us-them-concert-film-reviewed-2.html) noted that the intersection of beautifully crafted sound and footage combined with director Sean Evans' ability to turn an action-packed, live performance into an atmospheric, ethereal experience, raises the bar for concert video… . Those who were fortunate enough to catch the film in cinemas last year seemed to be universally knocked out by it (as we were). For those who want to relive the show, digitally, you'll be able to catch it in 4K (Ultra HD), HD and SD formats from June 16th from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, and available on the Apple, Googleplay, and Amazon platforms from that date. Included will be some all-new post-feature content which includes two additional concert songs missing from the original feature (Comfortably Numb and Smell the Roses) as well as A Fleeting Glimpse, a documentary short featuring behind-the-scenes moments from the tour, which we think is the one that was shown following the screening of the main feature in cinemas last year.We're hoping that the physical release won't be too far away now, for all those who want this on DVD/Blu-ray, or CD (and hopefully vinyl too). As and when we get any confirmed information on these, we will of course let you know.In the meantime, mark your diaries for June 16th and the digital release of Us + Them!

Sunta Moon releases smooth new shoegaze single ‘For You I Would Stay the Night’

Originally from Mexico, now LA living, the talented poet and singer-songwriter Sunta Moon has revealed her sultry, shoegaze infused new single ‘For You I Would Stay The Night’.  Overflowing with softly strummed guitars and her shimmering vocal, this tune is the perfect partner for late evening vibes. An artist who oozes creativity, her songwriting is …

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