Deacon Blue: A Comprehensive Dive into Their Discography
I’m thrilled to bring you an unboxing and overview of a series of releases centered around the iconic band, Deacon Blue.
Chart-topping Releases:
As of this video, Deacon Blue’s album, “The Very Best Deacon Blue: All the L45s,” is making waves in the album charts. This release is available in a vibrant colored double vinyl and a comprehensive two-CD set, complete with a booklet. But the pièce de résistance is the 14 CD complete album collection, which I’ll delve into shortly.
A Closer Look at the Collection:
The Two-CD Set: This set unfolds to reveal two discs, accessible from the package ends. It comes with a slightly abridged booklet compared to the box set, but it’s still packed with band information, photographs, and a tracklist with release years.
The Vinyl Set: This double album set, also titled “The Very Best Deacon Blue,” has fewer tracks than the CD version. The center gatefold tells the band’s story, and the vinyls themselves are a visual treat – one in radiant yellow and the other in fluorescent pink.
The Complete Albums Collection: This is the crown jewel, encompassing everything Deacon Blue has ever produced. It’s a testament to Cooking Vinyl’s dedication to the CD format. This 14 CD set includes all studio albums, the rare “Ooh Las Vegas” album, and “Peace Will Come,” a brand-new 12-track acoustic album with reinterpretations of the band’s beloved songs and previously unreleased cover versions.
Box Set Highlights:
Raintown: A classic with an unforgettable cover.
When the World Knows Your Name: A joyous, uplifting album.
Ooh Las Vegas: A double CD with B-sides, film tracks, and sessions.
Whatever You Say, Say Nothing (1993): My personal favorite, with a more guitar-centric sound.
Peace Will Come – unique to this set stripped back reworkings of some of the bands best known songs.
The booklet accompanying the box set is a treasure trove of information, with a detailed essay, photographs, and track details for each album.
Personal Reflections:
While many of you have expressed your love for Deacon Blue, I must admit that during their prime, the band somewhat eluded me. My focus was elsewhere, engrossed in rock and juggling personal responsibilities. However, revisiting their discography now, I’m struck by the timeless, joyous nature of their music. It’s a testament to the band’s talent that their songs remain as relevant and uplifting today as they were decades ago.
In Conclusion:
Whether you’re a die-hard Deacon Blue fan or someone looking to explore their music, these releases offer something for everyone. From the comprehensive 14 CD box set to the two-CD version and the vibrant vinyl set, there’s a format to suit every preference.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
