FEATURE: Flip the Record Over: The Best B-Sides Ever

FEATURE:

 

Flip the Record Over:  

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Beatles

The Best B-Sides Ever

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IT may appear irrelevant in an age where we are…

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Beach Boys

neglecting physical formats and getting our music from streaming sites – but there is a lot to be said about the humble single. There was a day when people used to buy singles and there would be a B-side – I am aware I sound quite patronising; as though this was hundreds of years back. It does feel like a product of an older time but, happily, there are modern artists putting out B-sides. This might be because there is a bit too much material around – not strong enough for an E.P./album but too good to waste – or the chance to retain some of music’s history and tradition.

To me, it allows the listener to hear those less-than-perfect tracks that were cut at the same time (as the album-worthy gems). Because of this, and looking back at some terrific music, it is a chance to show why B-sides should be brought to life. I collate those overlooked songs that definitely stick in the mind…

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Fleetwood Mac - Silver Springs

A-Side: Go Your Own Way

Year of Release: 1976

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Noel Gallagher’s High Flying BirdsRevolution Song

A-Side: Ballad of the Mighty I

Year of Release: 2015

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Bruce Springsteen - Shut Out the Light

A-Side: Born in the U.S.A.

Year of Release: 1984

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The Beatles You Know My Name (Look Up the Number)

A-Side: Let It Be

Year of Release: 1970

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Primal Scream - Velocity Girl

A-Side: Crystal Crescent

Year of Release: 1986

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The Beach Boys - God Only Knows

A-Side: Wouldn’t It Be Nice?

Year of Release: 1966

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Radiohead - Talk Show Host

A-Side: Street Spirit (Fade Out)

Year of Release: 1996

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Oasis - Half the World Away

A-Side: Whatever

Year of Release: 1994

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Booker T & The M.G.'s - Behave Yourself

A-Side: Green Onions

Year of Release: 1962

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Joy DivisionThese Days

A-Side: Love Will Tear Us Apart

Year of Release: 1980

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The Smiths - How Soon Is Now?

A-Side: William, It Was Really Nothing

Year of Release: 1984

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Franz Ferdinand Shopping for Blood

A-Side: Darts of Pleasure

Year of Release: 2003

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The BeatlesI Am the Walrus

A-Side: Hello Goodbye

Year of Release: 1967