We have ten days left (as of this writing) until the end of our sitewide sale on vintage records, so what are you waiting for? Here’s your chance to take 20% off on cool finds—simply use the code FUNSALE. There’s a ton on here you wouldn’t want to miss.
If you didn’t catch our previous post on some of our recommendations, check that out here. If you did and still aren’t convinced, well then, here’s a fresh list with even more suggestions.
John Lee Hooker – Kabuki Wuki
The blues are a great way to get into records. If you haven’t stocked up on your blues collection, now’s a great time. One of the cool finds you’ll come across on our site is John Lee Hooker’s live performance in San Francisco, recorded 1971. Hooker is a staple name in the genre, and the best way to experience his timelessness is via the intimacy of a live setting, complete with all its depth and nuances.
Mantovani – The Magic of Mantovani
Annunzio Paolo Mantovani is an Anglo-Italian classical composer who happened to be Britain’s most successful album act before the Beatles. If you don’t recognize the Mantovani name, you’ve surely come across the music in a café or at a home somewhere. If you’re young, your grandparents will no doubt be able to shed some light. Mantovani is a must for any self-respecting record collector. Start strong and get this 8-LP box set—you’ll be an expert in no time.
Kitaro – Full Moon Story
New age is quite a unique genre. It isn’t for everyone, but once you’re into it, there’s no turning back. The music can be anything from relaxation to exploration to pure weirdness. On Kitaro’s essential Full Moon Story, listeners go through a mystical adventure in sound. What results is a layered, progressive aural experience transcending everything you’ve known.
Tangerine Dream – Optical Race
If you liked Kitaro, you’ll definitely be into Tangerine Dream as well. The band’s brand of new age leans more toward the electronic side. On their 1988 album, Optical Race, they find themselves programming largely using a computer. What you get is an album quite different from their other work, but still just as good.
Kay Gardner – Mooncircles
Kay Gardner crafted music celebrating women’s spiritual empowerment. The artist believed in the intense healing capability of music and graced the world with this unusual, largely instrumental record in 1975. Given the nickname Cosmos Wonder-Child, Gardner was also part of the feminist band Lavender Jane and went on to become a pioneering figure in women’s music.
Cheryl Lynn – In love
After her highly successful debut album spawning the big single “Got to Be Real,” Cheryl Lynn returned in 1979 with even more catchy soul-disco tunes. Infectious as ever, In Love is a record for good times and lots of dancing. Put this album on and groove the night away.
Donovan – The Hurdy Gurdy Man
The music on this seminal record will put you into a trance-like state. With songs featured on various media throughout the decades, this sixth album from Scottish musician Donovan centers a lot on drones, making for an experience unlike any other. Your mind will go places, and we all know that’s best amplified on wax.
Brigitte Fontaine – Brigitte Fontaine
Experimental French singer Brigitte Fontaine is a gift to this world. Her unusual songs fused with influences from various genres made her a standout during her time. If you’re into musicians like Björk, Kate Bush, and Beth Orton, this is a must-listen.
Norma Tanega – Walkin’ My Cat Named Dog
This vintage folk record is in high demand, and for good reason—it’s a largely inventive folk pop album. Simple yet effective, it had a massive hit in the ‘60s with its eponymous song. It would also surprise some to know that Norma Tanega, born in America, actually had Filipino blood. Sadly, the musician passed away last year. But her music lives on!
The Chamber Brothers – The Time Has Come
If you like psychedelic rock, here’s another essential—the Chamber Brothers’ ‘60s classic, most known for its last track, the lengthy “Time Has Come Today.” Mind-blowing, invigorating, and soulful—these are just some of the words used to describe this amazing record.
Words by Kurvine Chua.