S q u e e z y t u n e s

Mike Smith Tribute

I've just read in the Sunday papers, and over at Mr Anchovy's blog, that Mike Smith the keyboard player from The Dave Clark Five has passed away.

Here's a video tribute to the sound of their massive hit 'Bits and Pieces'. I must track down my mother's copy of the original vinyl single....

And here is a hit from 1968; 'Red Balloon'

Sankei Stereo Entertainer

Wow, check out this 1970s keyboard that has an in built radio, tape deck and 2 microphones so that you can record yourself playing along to the radio.

This could be a dream instrument for that lo-fi circuit bent one man band you've been meaning to start. I bet Tunng have one.

clipped from cgi.ebay.co.uk clipped from cgi.ebay.co.uk clipped from cgi.ebay.co.uk

Bonvicini Accordion Console

Wow. This is a Bonvicini accordion console. It's essentially an electric chord organ - but what a fabulous looking beast. This particular specimen appeared on Ebay a while back with a buy it now price of US $790. I would love to have one of these on stage for gigs.

If you've ever heard one of these then please leave a comment and tell us how it sounded. 

clipped from www.sellitallonline.com clipped from www.sellitallonline.com clipped from www.sellitallonline.com

Godwin Guitar Organ

In the mid to late 70's, the instrument makers at the Godwin Company took the guts of an electronic organ and fitted them in, what looks like, a jazz guitar body. Vox and Musiconics also manufactured guitars like this. Of all the organ guitars the Godwin is the most unique, the most complex, and the hardest to come across. Unlike the other organ guitars this one has all the functions you would find on an electronic organ including percussion, volume for the different intervals ("Drawbars" if you will), vibrato, and sustain. Apparently it sounds close to a Hammond B3 ! This one was on Ebay with a starting bid of US $8000. 

clipped from cgi.ebay.co.uk clipped from cgi.ebay.co.uk clipped from cgi.ebay.co.uk

Magnus Serenade

I'm gradually building up a photo collection of Magnus instruments. This model is the Serenade which sold for a grand total of US $19.99 a few months ago.

clipped from cgi.ebay.co.uk