Mott The Hoople’s “All The Young Dudes” 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Box Set: A Treasure Trove for Fans
As a passionate music enthusiast and a dedicated follower of Mott The Hoople, I was beyond excited to get my hands on the 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Box Set of “All The Young Dudes.” Released by Madfish Records, this box set is not just a collection of music; it’s a comprehensive tribute to a pivotal album in rock history.
Upon receiving the box set, I was immediately struck by its quality. The packaging is robust and well-designed, featuring a slip case that makes accessing the contents a breeze. This design choice is particularly appreciated by collectors like myself who value both aesthetics and functionality.
The box set includes a five-disc deluxe edition, featuring a 2 LP gatefold album, two CDs, a custom 12-inch single, a 72-page hardback book, three art prints, two posters, an SE divers membership card, and an individually numbered certificate. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of this release.
The highlight for me was the 12-inch single of “All the Young Dudes” and “One of the Boys.” The sound quality is exceptional, and the presentation is stunning. The two LP set features the remastered album along with bonus tracks and remixes, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tunes.
The memorabilia pouch is a delightful addition, filled with reproductions of British music press articles, posters, and promotional materials from the era. These pieces not only add to the nostalgic value of the set but also provide a glimpse into the band’s history and the cultural context of the time.
The accompanying 72-page hardback book is a treasure in itself. It’s a comprehensive and beautifully presented compilation of band history, track-by-track commentary, reviews, PR cuttings, ticket stubs, and more. The level of detail and care put into this book makes it a worthy standalone piece.
The remastering of the album is noteworthy. Technology has evolved significantly since the album’s original release, and this remaster takes full advantage of modern capabilities. The result is the best audio quality I’ve ever heard for this album, bringing new life to these classic tracks.
For fans of Mott The Hoople and Ian Hunter, this box set is more than just a collector’s item; it’s a celebration of a band at a pivotal moment in their career. Priced at £125, it offers incredible value for the quality and content provided. Madfish Records has truly outdone themselves with this release, creating something that feels like it was made by fans, for fans.
In conclusion, the “All The Young Dudes” 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Box Set is a must-have for any Mott The Hoople enthusiast. It’s a fitting tribute to an album that marked a significant moment in rock history, and a testament to the enduring legacy of the band.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
