Browse by Label: RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)

Artist:	RFD, THE
Title:	Lead Me Home
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 018CD

This is the first-ever authorized reissue of this 1971 Christian classic, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Housed in an exact reproduction paper sleeve. Pretty intensely amazing songs of devotion couched in lazy, laid-back, skillfully-crafted pop/country/psych tuneage, chock full of harmonies and vibes so mellow, you won't know whether they're singing about God or really good weed. "The RFD stands for Russ, Fred, and Dan and here's the deal -- these guys (and girl) put out a record in 1971 that went onto become universally-hailed by the thousand or so people in the world with an opinion on the matter as one of the five or ten best Christian records of all time. Now if you're like me, the initial thought of good Christian music seems like more than a joke than anything else. But then you hear artists like The Search Party or Marj Snyder or The RFD and you realize that these people are the real deal. Good Jesus music doesn't preach or even really announce itself as Christian music, at all. You have to listen real close to hear a message, and if you do hear it, you're free to ignore it and go on with your sinful existence. Good Christian, or Xian as we call it in the record biz, is good music whether you get it or not, no matter what you may believe. It usually has a beauty and a purity you can hear in secular records like Linda Perhacs or Wendy and Bonnie. But usually, as with these albums, there's also a darkness there, lingering and undenied, feeding the music with added complexity and gravity. This isn't glassy-eyed Jesus freak music, and the best records are by real people living real lives full of pain as well as joy and love. I won't lie and say it's anywhere as rich as the secular field, but there are some gems to be found and The RFD most definitely are one of them." --Douglas McGowan, Yoga Records

Artist:	COOKE, SHEP
Title:	Shep Cooke + Concert Tour Of Mars
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 019CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of the 1976 and 1979 privately-released solo albums by Tucson, Arizona-based singer-songwriter Shep Cooke, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Cooke was a former member of '60s bands The Dearly Beloved and Stone Poneys with Linda Ronstadt, and he also played on Tom Waits' Closing Time. Shep Cooke is an extraordinarily excellent acoustic guitar player, songwriter, and singer, and both albums are smattered throughout with country-blues-fueled acoustic jams, crooning ballads, and some lite-rock groovers. This CD includes both Cooke's self-titled 1976 solo debut and 1979's Concert Tour Of Mars. Housed in a miniature replica paper sleeve, with extensive liner notes and photos.

Artist:	FOSTER (WITH DON & MERRILY), REX
Title:	Roads Of Tomorrow
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 020CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of this lost 1970 folk-rock classic by Rex Foster, newly remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Rex Foster began performing in 1963 and writing songs in 1965. One hears Dylan's influence, along with Ray Charles, Joan Baez, Buffy St. Marie, The Beatles, The Byrds, Big Brother and the Holding Company, Big Daddy Tom Donahue and falling in love with Joan's sister, Mimi Farina. Rex's first band Rachael's Children rocked Texas in 1966, before anyone in San Francisco knew what "psychedelic" meant. He came to California, worked with Curt Boettcher, and toured with Medicine Ball Caravan across the United States and Europe with the likes of Van Morrison, Joni Mitchell, B.B. King, Hot Tuna, and Rod Stewart and Faces. Rex was an important part of the progressive country uprising during the 1970s, and toured with Merle Haggard in 1976. The cult classic Roads Of Tomorrow album appeared on the famous Barclay Records label in France (only) in 1970. This 600 count limited edition is housed in a miniature replica paper gatefold sleeve reissue and features two bonus tracks. Insert includes lyrics, the original 1970 liner notes and an interview with Rex Foster himself.

Artist:	JONES, JOHN
Title:	Collage
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 021CD

This is the first-ever CD release of UK cult singer-songwriter John Jones' 1971 obscurity, Collage, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster and including two bonus tracks. Prior to forming his own progressive rock band Jonesy, John Jones recorded this solo album for the German BASF label. Collage was cut at Command Studios in London, featured Australians Alan Tarney and Trevor Spencer (both ex-Quartet) and the British/American Jamie Kaleth. It was a textbook melodic singer/songwriter affair, peaking with "Live In 2," a track that proves Jones' skill with the guitar. This is a hidden gem for fans of mellow and dreamy acoustic folk, lightly Beatles-ish. Brilliant tunes and fantastic mastering. If you're in need of a good "silent" SSW rock album, this is the one. Housed in a paper sleeve, including liner notes written by the artist himself and rare photos.

Artist:	CARPENTER, BOB
Title:	Silent Passage
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 022CD

This is well-known Canadian singer-songwriter Bob Carpenter's first and only solo album, Silent Passage, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. It was produced by Brian Ahern and recorded between 1971 and 1974. With background vocals supplied by Anne Murray and Emmylou Harris, this is a little-known masterpiece. Apparently 25,000 copies were pressed but never left the warehouse due to legal problems, and didn't get much attention until 1984 when Holger Peterson obtained rights to release the album on Stony Plain. Comes in a handsome paper sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form.

Artist:	SEVENTH DAWN, THE
Title:	Sunrise
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 023CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of this 1976 folk obscurity from The Seventh Dawn, remastered in a 24-bit remaster, with four bonus tracks. Here's a strong U.S. eclectic folk album that calls to mind The Moody Blues or even Trees, but with spookier, more fragile feeling, with male vocals and female vocals that sound like Vashti Bunyan gone American. There is also a totally bonkers synth-fueled rocker that defies rational explanation. Sunrise mixes light progressive vibes with a unique mid-Atlantic folk sound. These recordings were made between 1970 to 1976 at the Virginia Commonwealth College, with just 200 copies released in 1976 on the Fantasy Worlds Unlimited label. This mega rarity was also released by Project Aquarius back in 1995 in a long-gone edition of 275. Comes in a handsome paper gatefold sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form. Includes liner notes, lyrics and rare photos.

Artist:	MOELLER, STAN
Title:	Thin Ties
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 024CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of mellow U.S. singer-songwriter Stan Moeller's 1980 solo release Thin Ties, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Thin Ties showcases the wonderfully smooth, warbling, easy-going voice of Stan Moeller. This clever, honest musical oddity should have special appeal for acoustic fans who enjoy folk music in its many guises, past and present. Lyrics most often address longing and doomed love affairs against the background of some simply masterful and gently sparkling acoustic guitar-playing. A light West Coast vibe in nice minor keys and some jazzy, ramblin' electric guitar accompaniment. Moeller would later go on to perform folk as a duo with his wife T.S. Baker, opening for Donovan, Roger McGuinn, Leo Kottke, Richie Havens, and many more. Moeller is currently a successful landscape painter. Comes in a handsome paper sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form. Includes an insert with lyrics and photos.

Artist:	CONKLIN & JOCHEN BLUM, LARRY
Title:	Jackdaw
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 025CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of Larry Conklin & Jochen Blum's great Seattle private press album, Jackdaw, originally released in 1980, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. About half the album is instrumental with Larry Conklin on guitar and Jochen Blum on violin and 12-string guitar. Jackdaw brings to mind Fahey, Basho, Hecht, and other great solo guitarists, with mellow, haunting vocals that are worthy of the loner-folk tag. This album also spawned the regional Pacific Northwest hit "River Of Stories." If you're on a mission to find lost, masterful acoustic guitar records, this is definitely one you must hear. Comes in a handsome paper sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form. Also includes biographical liner notes.

Artist:	APRIL & MAY
Title:	Best
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 026CD

Originally released as K-APPLE781 by Universal Records in 1973, Riverman reissues this stellar Korean psych-pop masterpiece by the duo April & May, (Lee Soo Man and Kim Jung Ho), now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. The Korean Everly Brothers/Simon & Garfunkel on acid. Amazing harmonies, killer bass lines, string arrangements, spaced-out organs, guitar jangle and fuzz and hippified acoustic psych-folk embellished by traditional instrumentation sits next to totally swinging y�-y� pop, as if the '60s hit Korea a few years later. Housed in a miniature replica gatefold sleeve, including photos and liner notes in Korean.

Artist:	TAROTOGACHI
Title:	Alone Together
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 028CD

Originally released in 1984 by Dae Seong Records, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Totally obscure Korean record full of truly spacy, sensitive A.M. balladry and acoustic finger-plucking with moments of greasy guitar shredding, jazz-piano, melodica and synth licks. Extremely pretty male and female vocal harmonies bolster the overall grand emotional arc of this record, which could be the tear-filled soundtrack to some sort of bizarre, candy-colored-cloud dream you've just had. There are some hidden ghostly folk gems and Floydian flourishes on here, too. The Korean Off Course (Japan) on acid. Back and inside cover features photos of the band having tea and looking somber/completely stoned. Housed in a miniature-replica paper sleeve with liner notes in Korean.

Artist:	CAZDEN, JOANNA
Title:	The Greatest Illusion
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 029CD

This is the first-ever reissue of Joanna Cazden's The Greatest Illusion, originally released in 1976 -- a masterpiece of obscure West Coast womyn-folk, remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Topics range from thoughts about sexual experimentation with women, coming off acid trips, anti-war revolution, and love affairs with messianic men, all sung with strident, coffee-house bravado. "Interesting, obscure debut LP that might be described as a somewhat bummed-out post-trip Carole King in a pro-feel singer-songwriter style that combines spaced out, sincere hippie lyrics to create an unusual, personal statement. Strong melodies and inventive arrangements make this album reminiscent of the great cerebral femme acid tracks on the Sally Eaton LP Farewell American Tour." --Patrick Lundborg, The Acid Archives. Album closes with a particularly spine-chilling a cappella bhajan, sung by a chorus of female voices. Above-average and a must to check out for 1970s femme-vox fiends. Includes three bonus tracks, and comes in a handsome paper sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form. Also includes lyrics, a poster-card insert and detailed liner notes by the artist herself.

Artist:	SEVENTH DAWN, THE
Title:	Dreams
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 030CD

This is the first-ever CD release of The Seventh Dawn's Dreams, originally released in 1977, the follow-up to Sunrise, their 1976 debut. Now remastered in a 24-bit remaster, including six bonus tracks. Seventh Dawn recorded their second album at the Virginia Commonwealth University's electronic music department. It has a more ambitious, emotionally-driven energy that unexpectedly bursts forth on the first two tracks. Moody amplified guitars, bits of reverb on the vocals and second guitars, the male, female and dual vocals, the keyboard arrangements, and the minimal use of drums. The conceptualized, fragile creativity brings to mind the Ithaca album, and the beautiful analog, sometimes mellotron-like synthesizer arrangements recall Emtidi's Saat. The songs on Dreams move beyond the innocence of Sunrise, but a sense of optimism remains. Housed in a paper gatefold sleeve, including lyrics, original cover artwork insert, and liner notes written by member Heff Munson.

Artist:	BARTELL, LYNDON
Title:	I Feel A Strange Excitement In The Air
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 031CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of this excellent, mellow, obscure 1978 Minnesota private-press Xtian folk album, originally released on Eagle Records, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Lyndon Bartell's I Feel A Strange Excitement In The Air features nice pedal steel & acoustic guitars, acoustic piano, accordion & mandolin, all nicely arranged. Bartell mixes country, folk, acoustic ballads and Xian concerns to impressive results. Comes in a handsome paper sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form. Includes liner notes by the artist, as well as lyrics.

Artist:	DEACON, MICHAEL
Title:	Runnin' In The Meadow
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 032CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of this 1975 folky singer-songwriter obscurity, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster and including 4 bonus tracks. Michael Deacon's Runnin' In The Meadow is a little light rock, a little blues, a little pop, and a little jazz -- a "bread and butter" mix of some of the freshest songs you're likely to hear in a long time, particularly "Yahoo!" -- a title song that defies description. It moves, it lifts, it raises your spirit like no other popular song has ever done. All tracks have a unique vocal quality, musical tightness, and lyrical lilt -- like a more Jesus-infused, AM radio-leveled Devendra Banhart, but way more spacy and left-field. Pure '70s American singer-songwriter mellow/weird grooviness. Packaged in a handsome mini-reproduction paper sleeve, with lyrics, liner notes, and quotes from the artist himself.

Artist:	ADAMKOSKY
Title:	In Your Eye
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 033CD

First time CD-release for this rare, obscure and expensive private press album, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Adamkosky's In Your Eye is lonely, melodic folk that was recorded in an 11-hour recording session with no second takes. Laid-back but ethereal low-fi sound with vocals; some solo tracks, some with further instrumentation. Comes from a folk-blues tradition, but sometimes sounds like a '70s singer-songwriter channeled by a 19-year-old who can't afford to hire a band. Comes in a handsome paper sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form.

Artist:	PRESENCE
Title:	Presence
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 034CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of this 1976 UK psychedelic Christian folk record, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. With beautiful male/female vocals, acoustic and electric guitar, mandolin, harmonica, finger cymbals, organ, and tambourine, this is a truly special and lovely album that leaves a lasting impression. If you have ears to hear you will know of some of the musical influences behind the album: The Incredible String Band, Nick Drake, Fairport Convention, Sandy Denny, Joni Mitchell, etc. Some downer-folk moments interspersed with messages of transformative hope and peace, ably soundtracked by gentle God-speak crooning and nimble fingerpicking. Includes four bonus tracks from some of their later recordings, and an insert with liner notes written by band leader Paul Gateshill.

Artist:	PATTERSON, BOB
Title:	Instrumentalist, Singer, Songwriter
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 041CD

Presenting the first-ever CD reissue of this 1971 mellow-folk rarity, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Extremely rare private folk record assembled by the former leader of Elizabeth (the noted Vanguard label psych band) and friends in a Philadelphia studio. Most tracks have multiple layered guitars, and 8 of the 12 songs have vocals. Listen to the doomy "Darlin' Good Girl," which sounds like the Richard Farina classic "The Bold Marauder" to some ears. If you collect private folk LPs from this era, you'll be hard-pressed to top this one for quality and obscurity. A near-perfect, sun-dappled recording, but there's a darkness amidst the calmness as well. An album as rare as Perry Leopold's Experiment In Metaphysics. Housed in a paper gatefold sleeve, including liner notes and rare photos.

Artist:	MADISON, BILL
Title:	Sunday Mornin' Hayride
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 043CD

Now in its first-ever CD reissue, Riverman Music presents this 1973 private-press rural-basement folk gem out of New Hampshire, remastered in a 24-bit remaster with three bonus tracks. Good-timey, jazzy, western swingin' bits ripe with weedy, gentle athmo-paint and bluesy taint. This terrific acid-cowboy-in-the-wild-west private pressing simply reeks of a rural America that probably doesn't exist anymore (and maybe never did), but Bill Madison delivers such a solid vision, that you'll be excused if you find yourself believing you've been taken on a ride in a time machine -- only the captain here's a bonafide head and won't drop you off in the 19th century without first stopping at the local freak shop for a pocketful of smoke. Comes in a handsome paper gatefold sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form. Includes liner notes, lyrics, and rare photos.

Artist:	FARM BAND, THE
Title:	The Farm Band
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 044CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of The Farm Band's communistic classic from 1972 -- remastered in a 24-bit remaster. In the late 1960s, Stephen Gaskin, a countercultural icon, made a name for himself teaching a weekly class on the meaning of the psychedelic experience in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury District. At the start of the '70s, he led a hippie exodus to Tennessee, where he created "The Farm," just about the only successful hippie commune from that era still standing. This is the first album by Gaskin and The Farm Band, who fall somewhere between the Grateful Dead and Jethro Tull, performing long, psycho blues suites with good guitar solos, flute and violin (several tracks last more than eight minutes). They released four albums between 1972 and 1977, generating more country boogie, good-time, free-loving vibes. Housed in a handsome paper gatefold sleeve that precisely reproduces the original gatefold LP sleeve in miniature form. Includes liner notes and rare photos.

Artist:	LEWIS, DAVID
Title:	Songs Of David Lewis
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 046CD

Riverman Music issues this extremely rare 1970 Irish album from former Andwella's Dream member David Lewis, including two bonus tracks. Songs Of David Lewis was recorded in Trident Studios London and engineered by Robin Cable, who was also Elton John's engineer at the time. The album came about as the result of extra studio time being left over after the completion of the Andwella World's End record. 500 copies were pressed and used for promotional purposes only. Two extra songs were added from the Andwella's Dream album Love And Poetry -- "Man Without A Name" and "Take My Road." A continuation of the same sort of dreamy songwritership as Andwella, but displaying the early phases of Lewis' composerly guitar/piano bent, as well. Remastered in a 24-bit remaster, and housed in a paper sleeve.

Artist:	MORRIS, ROGER
Title:	First Album
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 047CD

Riverman Music reissues this 1972 classic of UK roots revival rock, remastered in a 24-bit remaster and including four bonus tracks from the same era. Previously known to just a handful of collectors and experts, this record later came to the attention of many fans after being championed by a small group of music critics. Recorded in the UK in late 1971, First Album was a fine addition to the small but burgeoning British country rock scene that encompassed the likes of Matthews' Southern Comfort, Quiver, Help Yourself, and Brinsley Schwarz. Roger Morris' band on this album features some of the finest musicians of the era, including Glen Campbell, Rod Coombes, Chris Mercer and De Lisle Harper. This reissue boasts an additional four bonus tracks, which were all recorded a year after the original LP. Housed in a miniature replica paper gatefold sleeve with lyrics sheet.

Artist:	HALLQUIST, BILLY
Title:	Persephone
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 049CD

Rare, 1972 private-press druggy psych-folk from Minnesota on Orion Records, which has become famous in fields of U.S. basement-psychedelic/singer-songwriter gems. Billy Hallquist played in a late '60s band called Thundertree which released a fine album on the Roulette label. On Persephone, Billy's weeding through a basement full of glistening papers only a drifter's heart is able to read. There's flashes of eastern-pattern beads in his acoustic-guitar-strumming, there's a bucket of loner strive being dispersed at your needs. There's a nightmarish plea on "Persephone," whispering out of Hades' lair and building into anthemic fare. Some songs are just him and his wooden box, others have a full-combo backing with electric/acoustic gear. Acid-tinged rural folk-psych sounds abound on this disc, showcasing the great song structure with tunes that stay with you afterward. Has one of the coolest original cover designs you have ever seen, depicting anatomically-correct half-man-beast gods ruling over all.

Artist:	BLACKBURN & MARY LAUREN, JOHNNY
Title:	Echoes Of Love's Reality
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 050CD

"Most would probably agree that this is one of the very best psych-style LPs from the 1980s. Not retro at all, but (like Bobb Trimble) a piece of the late 1960s preserved from time's rust. Male-female vocals lament and serenade 'the quest for knowledge of love and beauty' in an appealing soundscape, with lyrical guitar leads throughout, good use of mellotron, occasional tablas, flute and bells. The recording has a definite 1981 sound but (again like Bobb) this somehow becomes an advantage. The vocal blend is superb and may recall Anonymous and Bermuda Triangle, while the wistful mood and beautiful melodies is a bit like British band Ithaca or the melodic sides of Seventh Dawn. Moments such as 'Beautiful Dreamer' go truly deep. [T]his is recommended to anyone open for a folk-psych trip inside the melancholy and bliss of an acid-fueled romance." --Patrick Lundborg, The Acid Archives; Includes a 24-page illustrated lyric booklet.

Artist:	FOLSOM, ROBERT LESTER
Title:	Music And Dreams
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 051CD

First-ever authorized CD reissue of this highly-collectable ($300+) private-press lost classic from Atlanta, 1976. Super-relaxed, earnest n' mellow rock and roll from a simpler, better time. Dreamy '70s guitar groove with the thinnest haze of airy synths, keys n' flange a la Bread, America, and Todd Rundgren. There are some occasional boogie-led jams as well. Undeniably sunny, impeccably-arranged, warm, friendly, and weirdly wonderful songs. Includes two bonus tracks, including the unbelievable, soaring "Warm Horizon." For fans of CSNY, Steve Miller, Paul McCartney, Anonymous, and Jade Stone & Luv.

Artist:	MOORE, LES
Title:	Yesterday
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 052CD

Les Moore's first and best album dates back to New Orleans, 1973. This low-budget recording hits all the right notes for aficionados of early private-press SSW music and is considered a minor classic of the "loner/downer" genres. Moore's quavering voice calls to mind Mark Bolan and Devendra Banhart, and his guitar work is subtly virtuosic. Though best known for what Acid Archives calls the "scary jump into the abyss" of the radical cover of The Beatles' "A Day In The Life," it's the original compositions by Moore and Andy and John Davis, full of the kind of raw emotion and sadness totally missing from music today, that make this worth checking out. "Now To Begin" may be the most moving anti-war song ever heard, and "Ooh-Pah-Do-Pah-Do" (included on Numero Group's great Wayfaring Strangers: Lonesome Heroes comp) may be the most deceptively-titled track you'll ever hear.

Artist:	O'BRIEN & JAKE, JUSTEN
Title:	Time Will Tell
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 056CD

The greatest album in the history of North Dakota is Justen O'Brien & Jake's Time Will Tell (1978). Bootlegged twice already, Riverman Music presents the first artist-approved reissue of this mysterious, deep, UFO-inspired masterpiece. Featuring crystal-clear sound, the originally-intended cover art in a gorgeous gatefold cover, in-depth liner notes by Douglas Mcgowan (Yoga Records), and never-before-seen photos capturing the mystique of this long-gone psych/prog/lounge classic, even longtime fans will need to check back in with Justen O'Brien's unique vision of the cosmos. A truly MAJOR left-field rediscovery on par with Bobb Trimble, Jade Stone And Luv, or DR Hooker. A lot of questions remain. Was Justen O'Brien in fact abducted by aliens? Where did he go after this record was finished? Why did one of the greatest rare record dealers in the world insist he's seen a second Justen O'Brien album? And most importantly, how good does a record have to be to get reviewed on Pitchfork without the help of a high-powered publicist?

Artist:	RAGAR, WILL & JAMES
Title:	Will & James Ragar
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 058CD

This is Will and James Ragar's self-titled album in stereo on the private NoMountain label. Killer ultra-light 1980 album from these Midland-area Texan brothers. This record has a smart, cool sound that sounds very laidback at first and then hooks you with beautiful harmonies and songwriting and grows from there. This duo plays mostly original, contemplative, mellow, soul-searching, soft rock, rural middle-to-upper-tier singer-songwriter-type stuff. Epic, super homemade sketch cover without the dimensional lines erased. Tracks like "Louisiana Fall" are hard to beat, and other standout songs include "Melting Pot," "Just A Wanderer" and "My Shining Sun." Highest recommendation for genre fans. Two bonus tracks included.

Artist:	HOLMES, NICK
Title:	Soulful Crooner
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 059CD

Nick Holmes first played with the musicians on Soulful Crooner while singing with White Elephant, the '70s jazz-rock big-band. This 1973 solo record followed that double record collaboration, and it still sounds good today, although in those days they didn't have digital yet. Mike Mainieri's production and arrangements from that period are full and honest. It's a jazz record in many ways -- many of the songs have more key changes in the intros of the songs than Nick used on entire albums in the '80s and '90s. Nick learned his harmonic sense from these years with the jazzers, and his voice is in fine shape. Weird, hazy, hypnogogic jazz/folk-pop, accompanied by Holmes' voice, which is pure velvet and totally hypnotic. Originally released on the legendary Just Sunshine label. Includes two bonus tracks.

Artist:	HAKANSSON, CARL
Title:	Candles Glow
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 060CD

Completely obscure private press from central Massachusetts, 1979. Candles Glow was recorded predominantly in the attic of an old farm house in northern New Hampshire. This is the same little corner of the world where Bobb Trimble made two of the best psych records ever, also around 1980. This album's not as out-there as Bobb's, but it's completely unknown as far as you can tell and several tracks have got a nice rural psych feel with great, garage-y guitar work from Richard Thyng, as evidenced on "Morning Bird." Neil Young's definitely an influence here, and the rest of the record is a lot mellower, with a few solo downer-folk numbers by Carl Hakansson and one really spooky and somber kind of chanted mantra a cappella track "Alone They Ride," credited to The Thyng-Hakansson Chorus.

Artist:	JUST OTHERS
Title:	Amalgam
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 061CD

A totally rare UK private press record, Amalgam was recorded making the utmost of the most basic equipment in the spring and summer of 1974. Just 250 copies were pressed, and the record was sold only at gigs. What kind of album did Just Others make? For sure, there are songs on Amalgam that manage to convey a variety of human feelings -- part optimism, part melancholy, that makes this a uniquely interesting addition to any serious collection of acoustic music of the period. The cross-fertilization between their separate enthusiasms and previous musical experience goes a long way toward explaining the uniquely distinctive blend to be heard on Amalgam. Highly recommended for fans of British folk-rock in the vein of Tir Na Nog and John Renbourn. Housed in a miniature LP sleeve.

Artist:	MACNEIL, PAUL
Title:	If It Rains
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 063CD

Paul MacNeil's first and only album, If It Rains was produced in Boston for the Just Sunshine label in 1974. It was well-received in the folk-rock community as a unique collection of songs written by this Boston and Cambridge, MA underground legend. He played clubs in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Florida and at the Ultimate End in Key West. He played on the same bill as the Cadillac Cowboys in Newburyport with Fred Click, and played on the same bill as John Sebastian and Tom Rush at the Grog in Newburyport. Many of his songs have been recorded by other artists: Bill Staines; The Pozo Seco Singers; Nancy Michaels; the group Orpheus, also known as the Villagers. Recommended for pure folk-rock lovers. Two previously-unreleased bonus tracks included.

Artist:	ELIZALDE, PETER
Title:	Winter Playground Mystery
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 064CD

Unknown, brilliant all-original outsider loner singer-songwriter who completely sounds trapped in 1972 not '82!! One insane epic dueling guitar/synth prog stormer and also a quirky power-pop hard rock number and the rest sounds like early '70s FM radio or maybe Todd Rundgren coming down off a hard bummer! Cool hand-drawn acid-drenched cover reminiscent of Van Gogh. Maybe this guy was dipping into the turpentine, too! Dark, cold, underdeveloped and moody just like the music. A little something for everyone here: real people, soft rock, psych, folk, prog and more. An undiscovered gem that's bound to get props eventually from the big-time collectors.

Artist:	EVANS, DAVE
Title:	Take A Bite Out Of Life
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 065CD

In 1976, Kicking Mule released the follow-up to Sad Pig Dance, a mix of songs and instrumentals entitled Take A Bite Out Of Life. As with Dave Evans' first recordings, there are some fine songs on this album. Still, its standout cuts are the four instrumentals. He was one of the rare players whose command of traditional material was virtually unmatched, yet he also possessed the flair and imagination to weave elements of his time into the music, leaving the tradition richer. If you enjoy the music of Davey Graham, Leo Kottke, Michael Hedges, or any of the finger-style guitar giants, then you should buy this album. If you're not into those guys, but your ears still function, you may want to buy it anyway because this is stunningly beautiful music.

Artist:	SEVERANCE & CASSIDY
Title:	Severance & Cassidy
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 066CD

Severance & Cassidy was a duo playing folk rock in the late '70s and early '80s in New Hampshire. Don Severance: songwriter, guitar and vocals Gary Cassidy: bass and vocals. In 1978, they were playing clubs, concerts, and parties full-time throughout New Hampshire and into Vermont. Their sound evolved from their interest in the acoustic, melodic, and harmony-driven music that was popular at the time. Don was strongly influenced by the guitar and harmony work of Peter, Paul And Mary and the songwriting and vocals of Simon And Garfunkel. In addition, bands such as America and Crosby, Stills And Nash were on the charts adding their brand of folk rock to the musical landscape. Gary came from a background of country music, and with his deep, rich, full-range vocals and his strong bass skills, they created a sound that felt larger than most other duos in the area. If you like obscure and mellow folk rock of the 1970s, this is a must-have album.

Artist:	BLANCHARD, MICHAEL KELLY
Title:	Quail
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 067CD

Although released initially in 1977, these songs from Michael Kelly Blanchard are amazingly fresh today. And you may find that some of them are the best-ever in any genre. Many of these amazing songs are what you would consider masterworks. Songs that describe the human condition in God-speak mixed with highly-stylized folk. Lyrics that reach into your soul and touch what is deep inside. Songs that will actually change your life. Every song on this record is simple but strong. You would describe the music style as folk/jazz -- elements of both appear throughout the recording, and are very accessible. Michael Kelly Blanchard has practiced his art for many years and has stayed true to what he believes is his calling. Co-produced by Noel Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul and Mary. Recommended for mellow folk fans around the world. Includes two bonus tracks.

Artist:	SURIANO, GREGG
Title:	Peace Of The Rock
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 068CD

It all started for Gregg Suriano when he began writing songs in his early teens and people quickly took notice in his home town. It soon progressed beyond his local area and in 1974 he began performing his tunes in churches and piano clubs across Long Island, Manhattan and the tri-state area. His local following continued to grow and artists began to use his material in live shows and recordings. By 1977, he had won his place among the best with his song "Play The Game" at the American Songwriter's Contest. He finally decided to record his first album entitled Peace Of The Rock, released in 1978 on the Behold Record label. Christian contemporary radio stations began playing "The Last Days" and "Where Do You Stand." The coffee house venues were picking up on his music and he was often invited as a guest artist every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday on Long Island and as far away as Dubuque, Iowa. Once again in 1980, Gregg was a winner at the American Song Festival with his song, "Some Kind Of Loneliness" (which ended up on his next LP). He was then noticed by the legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach who was so impressed, that he had Suriano play piano at his restaurant every Friday night. Gregg began working with notable artists such as Kathy Triccoli, Magaret Becker, and a host of others who went onto become well-known in the CCM market. Gregg opened up for such artists as BJ Thomas and Glad. In 1983, Suriano released his second album, Single Minded Man. Songs such as the title cut climbed to #3 on the Christian radio station WLIX from the Long Island, New York area. Yacht-rockish, with funky basslines and key stabs, some congas occasionally and PLENTY of excessive sax. Dig the track "The Last Days," which includes prescient and oddly upbeat-sounding lyrics about The End Times. Includes three bonus tracks.

Artist:	SWEET MAYA
Title:	Sweet Maya
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 069CD

The music of Sweet Maya (originally formed in 1972 in Kalamazoo, MI) is an extension of each member. As individuals they bring together diverse backgrounds; as a group they blend it all into a sound that is exciting and full of warmth. This six-piece group of multi-talented instrumentalists has five lead singers, four songwriters and four arrangers. The music that grows from the contact of such persons is evidenced in this album. It is Sweet Maya (the illusion) that flows through and shapes the many idioms of their music. It is Rob Hayes, Tom Davis, Janice Lakers, Gail Baker, John Chamberlin and Mark Bowen who convey the experience. Listed in the Japanese book Rare Groove A To Z on Rittor Music and recommended for funk/soul/soft rock fans. Perfect music for putting on a pair of rainbow-colored overalls and hanging out in a field, zoning out or blissfully grooving.

Artist:	PATTERSON & PULTS
Title:	Grand Tetons
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 070CD

Very introspective and beautiful private loner/psych/folk rock from Texas in 1977. Here's what the Acid Archives has to say: "Introspective acoustic folk duo. Nice dark playing and stark, heartfelt songs about loneliness and the wonders of nature. There is also a second LP from 1984, Second Time Around with 1979-80 recordings." Grand Tetons, the debut album from this highly-regarded Texas rural folk rock duo, has a lot of fans. The follow-up, recorded in 1979 but not released until 1984, continues in the same style, as evident from the outstanding West Coast-flavored opening track and several more strong tracks. This CD reissue includes 6 tracks from the second album and demo recordings from newly-found tapes. Good one to file next to Kaufmann & Caboor, Will & James Ragar, John Villemonte, etc.

Artist:	LONG, DANNY
Title:	She's Here At Last
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 071CD

Riverman Music presents this privately-pressed 1971 Chicago singer-songwriter gem from Danny Long. "Danny Long is one of Chicago's most important experts in the world of music. His amazing talent for blending his swinging jazz piano and vocals into the landscape of popular song has made him a favorite among music lovers in America and around the globe. His brilliant knack for choosing offbeat material and transforming it into his own personal musical statement has made him a favorite among his fans and his fellow musicians. On this wonderful album, She's Here At Last, his hot/sweet/sensual vocals and marvelous jazzy piano playing are showcased in a mix of a popping rhythm section, dazzling horn solos, and Danny's own great orchestral arrangements. Each song tells a fun, fascinating story in both music and words. The title song is Danny's own heartfelt composition, a beautiful and moving tribute to his newly-born daughter, Trish. 'She's Here At Last' is Danny Long at his best -- exciting, magical material performed by a master craftsman of song." --Judy Roberts, Chicago Jazz Magazine; Includes two bonus tracks.

Artist:	STONEFIELD TRAMP
Title:	Dreaming Again...
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 077CD

Very rare Stonefield Tramp album with a beautiful, dreamy quality. In 1974, members of the band Terry Friend and Rob Van Spyk met Brian Ballister. As a trio, they released the album Follow The Sun for the studio label, Acorn. After they'd failed to interest any major record company in their recordings, the group issued one LP, Dreaming Again..., on their own Tramp label. For this album, the trio were enhanced by additional musicians Chris Sutoris (bass) and Dave Lloyd (electric guitar). To reflect their new sound, the band adopted a new name and Stonefield Tramp were born. Some tracks show a strong Bob Dylan influence while others lean strongly towards the style we have now come to know as acid folk. Dreaming Again... is very eagerly sought-after by vinyl record collectors worldwide. A must for British folk fans.

Artist:	RUHNKE, CRAIG
Title:	The Craig Ruhnke Band
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 079CD

Reissuing Craig Ruhnke's late '70s/early '80s albums has been a difficult task to accomplish for other labels, but Riverman Music, South Korea has done it! 1979's publisher promotional release Craig Ruhnke Band finally sees the light of the day. Toronto-based singer/songwriter Craig Ruhnke released dozens of singles throughout the '70s and '80s before switching to A&M Records where he had his biggest hit "You're A Heartbreaker." Eventually he launched his own Pinnacle Records which made it possible for Ruhnke to continue releasing material on A&M. There was rumored to be another publisher promotional album Reach Out in 1981, featuring several of the same tunes from The Craig Ruhnke Band album. Includes three bonus tracks.

Artist:	RUHNKE, CRAIG
Title:	Just Like The Old Times
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 080CD

Just Like The Old Times was originally released in 1982. Toronto-based singer/songwriter Craig Ruhnke released dozens of singles throughout the '70s and '80s before switching to A&M Records where he had his biggest hit "You're A Heartbreaker." Eventually he launched his own Pinnacle Records which made it possible for Ruhnke to continue releasing material on A&M. Keyboard-driven power ballads, fuelled by mellow vibes, aching, earnest vocals, and a couple of searing guitar solos. Includes four bonus tracks.

Artist:	VOICES OF EAST HARLEM, THE
Title:	The Voices Of East Harlem
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 095CD

The Voices Of East Harlem were a 20-member soul ensemble, led by lead vocalists Gerri Griffin and Monica Burress. Their music was produced and arranged by the Curtom label's Leroy Hutson, Rich Tufo and Curtis Mayfield. Originally released in 1973 on Just Sunshine Records, this self-titled album is the group's second release, following an album for Elektra in 1970. The band's sound is a curious mix of blues, soul, and a sort of secular gospel, song by members as young as 12-years-old. Boosted by the warmth of the production, the album easily stands alongside some of the best '70s soul records as those released on the Curtom label. The album opens with the track "Cashing In," a rare groove classic. This limited edition 24-bit digitally remastered CD reissue is housed in a sleek "mini-LP" sleeve, with a lyric sheet.

Artist:	VOICES OF EAST HARLEM, THE
Title:	Can You Feel It?
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 096CD

The Voices Of East Harlem's righteous singing was grounded in the smooth soul of Curtom legend Leroy Hutson's production and arrangement. Can You Feel It was their third outing, originally released on Just Sunshine Records in 1974. Curiously uplifting songs about love, standing up to the man, being yourself, and feeling it. This limited edition 24-bit digitally remastered CD reissue is housed in a sleek "mini-LP" sleeve, with a lyric sheet.

Artist:	DOO SOO, KIM
Title:	Free Spirit
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	RM 001CD

This is the 2002 fourth album by Korea's true cult folk/singer-songwriter hero, Kim Doo Soo. Kim Doo Soo is perhaps the deepest and most introspective of Korea's acid folk singers. Legends surround his songs -- political oppression, alcoholism, suicide, a 10-year period of mountain seclusion. In spite of four acclaimed albums in Korea, most Western listeners only became aware of Kim through his tracks on Damon & Naomi's compilation International Sad Hits Volume One: Altaic Language Group. On Free Spirit he mines productive veins of profound melancholy, animistic nature, and unfathomable, hermetic affection. These songs are couched in a veil of gorgeous, still melodicism, Kim's quavering vocals and guitar shaded with subtle accordion, cello, organ and harmonica. A reflective and unearthly masterpiece. Housed in a digipak, including a 19-page booklet with lyrics in Korean and photos.

Artist:	CLEARING
Title:	Clearing
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 039CD

This is the first-ever CD reissue of the second, better-known 1973 album from this pastoral Boston-area folk trio, now remastered in a 24-bit remaster. Intimate, low-key hippie folk with several things going for it. Warm male and female vocals create an appealing blend supported by acoustic guitar, piano, tablas and flute. Far from being trad, a playful and occasionally improvised feel dominates with nocturnal Eastern flourishes for that special late-night acid feel. When Clearing stick to the femme-vox hippie picnic sounds, the sound is quite appealing. Comes in a handsome paper sleeve that precisely reproduces the original LP sleeve in miniature form. Includes detailed liner notes written by one of the original band members.

Artist:	NEWS
Title:	Hot Off The Press
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 053CD

Riverman Music reissues a unique '70s pop obscurity. The lead instrument is a pedal steel guitar, played with more imagination than anywhere other than the Misunderstood's studio recordings, often with some nice, fuzzy distortion. It rarely sounds "country." The songs are strong pop/rock, with Beach Boys-style harmony vocals on the softer songs, and tougher (but still melodic) singing on the rockers. Other than the opening "song" (three minutes of a guy fiddling with a radio dial), everything here is memorable, and no two songs sound alike. Highlights include the powerful "Loser," with a stunning steel guitar solo, and the long album-closer "New York City," but this is consistent enough that any given listener could feel equally strong about any two others. This is exactly the kind of band a daring major label executive would have struck gold with in the '60s, but nobody would dare to touch in the '70s. The endless streams of slide on these songs makes you almost woozy, but in that pleasant, A.M. radio, hot car/hot summer day, off-kilter '70s way. Surprisingly groovy. Includes two previously unreleased bonus tracks.

Artist:	EUBANK, JEFF
Title:	A Street Called Straight
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 055CD

Originally released in 1983, this is Jeff Eubank's sole Kansas City private-press gem, originally produced only in an edition of 500 copies. Jeff Eubank is not a boner. A cursory read of the lyrics, printed in full in the space surrounding Mr. Eubank on the back cover artwork, more or less confirms this. They are literate and poetic without giving the reader anything to laugh at. At this point, any smart record digger will pull this particular title. A cursory needle drop may or may not reveal the album's potential. Depending on where the needle lands, it may sound like Crosby, Stills and Nash, or it may sound like the music we have come to know as "yacht rock," the smooth-sailing sounds of Christopher Cross, Hall & Oates, The Doobie Brothers, or Kenny Loggins. There's even a bit of the old, mellow, West Coast A.M.-rock canyon sound in there as well, with complex harmonies and a general hazy, lazy vibe. The truth behind this music's distinct sound is somewhere in between all this. There is an undeniably dated aspect to this music, an over-emphasis or over-reliance on being easy-going, but at the same time, it's wonderfully next to impossible to exactly pinpoint when or where this music was made. Like an '80s Tim Buckley on downers, Eubank's voice is smooth as silk, and there is no attack in his delivery; instead, his voice coasts along in a gentle, affable flow. But don't be so easily assuaged, when you get this album home and listen more closely, the conflict and rough edges of this music begins to reveal itself. Regarding the title, the artist himself explains it this way" "('rise and go to a street called straight' from Acts 9:10-19) finds Ananias being directed to risk harm and perhaps his life to help a man he knows to be dangerous. The implication of the fact that the name of the street was (and is) Straight (like straight and narrow) shouldn't be lost on someone who is reading carefully. As this relates to the lyrics of the song, we all have had to, at some time (or many times), move on in courage and leave the past behind (good or bad). In the case of these lyrics, there is hope: 'there is an end to this endless night... after all.'" Astral, unplaceable music that will fill your head-space, highly recommended for fans of Bobb Trimble, Robert Lester Folsom, and other purveyors of lost late '70s/early '80s music.

Artist:	LUCAS, TED
Title:	Ted Lucas
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$18.00
Catalog #:	BTR 057CD

The music of Ted Lucas has circulated through CD-Rs and blogs for years now. Although primarily known for this, his 1975 self-titled album (sometimes referred to as The OM Record), a legacy of hundreds of tapes decisively reveal one of the psychedelic era's most criminally-overlooked talents. Lucas studied with Ravi Shankar. He was the "exotic instruments specialist" for Motown and played sitar on many of their most famous productions. He rubbed shoulders with Alice Cooper and Ted Nugent and every other major player on the Detroit scene. His pioneering early psych rock bands The Spike Drivers and Misty Wizards managed to become legends with nothing more than a handful of singles. Stanley Mouse, prime image-maker for the Grateful Dead and friend of Ted, adapted the cover for Ted Lucas from his artwork for Jimi Hendrix's unfinished last album. It's the first appearance of the space scarab -- the UFO that would later become Journey's symbol. From brief, spontaneous ditties, predating the lo-fi indie movement by 20 years, to the epicly psychedelic sitar guitar ragas in Lucas' signature loose string tunings, Lucas never wavered from his visceral, intensely honest vision. A self-taught master of many instruments and consummate do-it-yourselfer, Ted created a home studio and worked out new ways to tune his guitars. The pride he took in his craft and his attention to detail were inspiring and exasperating to all who knew him. His wit was legendary. The reasons for Lucas' failure to break out of the Detroit scene would require, and probably deserve, a book-length investigation. His career provides insight on the difficulty of self-publishing and self-promotion in the pre-internet age. Without a doubt, things would have turned out very differently had he come up today. Lucas' voice is unspeakably mellow, his guitar unbelievably gentle, and his arrangements absolutely impeccable. Do not miss this album.

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Artist:	CASELLI, CATERINA
Title:	Primavera
Label:	RIVERMAN MUSIC (KOREA)
Format:	CD
Price:	$17.00
Catalog #:	BTR 045CD