Where the label name is a link, clicking it will take you to a new page with more information and, in most cases, an attempt to list all issues on that label.Originally a German-only label, launched in 1907, Dacapo appeared in Britain in 1910 with a catalogue starting at 1, priced at 2/6 (12.5p).Even the EMGs (large horn acoustic machines) cannot compete.
This Guide commences in 1956, with the 12″ 1500 series microgroove vinyl LP, which I consider the beginning of modern “high fidelity”.
It covers the period of the original Blue Note Records company in the decade up to 1966, and then through the hands of subsequent owners Liberty Records Inc, United Artists and EMI, through the dj compilation decade, up to the modern “audiophile” editions of the present day.
Production in Britain ceased soon after the outbreak of WWI with some later issues having the place of origin (Berlin) expunged from the label.
Danceland records first appeared about 1948 and were a result of differences between the Association of Ballrooms and the record companies regarding licences to use gramophone records in dance halls.
Vocalion catalogues from the 1920s and a selection of Zonophone catalogues are also included.
The British Library Board is grateful to EMI Group and to HMV Group for supporting the inclusion of these valuable catalogues on this site and acknowledges the intellectual property rights of EMI Group and HMV group.
The book contains over 150 pages, plus illustrated end papers.
The earliest Blue Note recordings were issued on 78 rpm shellac or 10″ microgroove, largely the domain of the purist collector, as many of these recording (though not all) went on to be republished in various permutations on 12″ LP.
However, the upside is that such pressings can produce quite stunning results when reproduced on good, simple equipment.
To play 78s you need the following equipment: Turntable: The first item you will need is a suitable turntable with variable speed.
In addition to the major record companies, smaller companies are represented such as Aco and Homochord as well as foreign companies such as Odeon and Pathé who were producing discs in the UK at the time.