There was a time when pretty much anyone off the telly, or anyone on the silver screen, made a record. There were very few ways of getting closer to the stars in the fifties and pre-Beatles sixties – so a 45 was a means for fans to grab something tangible. It might be a novelty record (Terry-Thomas), a film theme (Sid James and Liz Fraser) or a serious stab at an alternative career (Ian McShane); sometimes it was a side project that reflected an intriguing, little known side to a star (Spike Milligan). Most sank like a stone, but they remain fascinating and delightful curios, totally reminiscent of the era of Ford Zephyrs, Consulate cigs and kitchen sink movies. Carry On stars by the truckload, Most tracks available for the first time on CD, Gorgeous artwork, Thorough sleevenotes by noted pop historian Bob Stanley
