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Wednesday, August 21, 2024

OGWT 40th Anniversary compilations | Butterboy


VA - The Old Grey Whistle Test [2010] + The Old Grey Whistle Test, 40th Anniversary Album [2011] +The Old Grey Whistle Test Live [2012] (8 x CDs)



The Old Grey Whistle Test (OGWT) is a term that echoes in the hearts of music lovers of all ages. This British music television program, broadcasted on BBC2 from 1971 to 1988, was a lighthouse for non-mainstream music, presenting a wide array of artists and musical styles. The concept of the show was the brainchild of BBC producer Rowan Ayers and commissioned by David Attenborough. According to presenter Bob Harris the programme derived its name from a Tin Pan Alley phrase inspired. According to this phrase, if a song could be remembered and whistled by the ‘old greys’ - the doormen in grey suits - after hearing it just once or twice, it had passed the 'old grey whistle test’.

Included in this post are the following albums:

VA - The Old Grey Whistle Test [2010]

VA - The Old Grey Whistle Test, 40th Anniversary Album [2011]

VA - The Old Grey Whistle Test, Live [2012]

The first in the series of three box sets, “VA - The Old Grey Whistle Test [2010]”, is a collection that embodies the spirit of OGWT. Curated by Bob Harris, a Radio 2 DJ and host of the show, this two-disc release comprises 38 tracks that span across different years and genres. The assortment of tracks provides a glimpse into an era ruled by album artists, offering a unique perspective into the musical scene of that time.

The second box set, “VA - The Old Grey Whistle Test, 40th Anniversary Album [2011]”, commemorates the 40th anniversary of the show. This 3 CD set showcases a varied range of artists and genres, mirroring the wide spectrum of artists that appeared on the show. The collection of tracks serves as a testament to the legendary acts that adorned the OGWT stage.

The third box set, “VA - The Old Grey Whistle Test, Live [2012]”, exemplifies what OGWT stood for - live music. This three-disc collection exclusively contains archived live performances from the show. The variety in the selection mirrors the diversity of artists that appeared on the show. This compilation is highly recommended for truly celebrating what The Old Grey Whistle Test stood for - live music.

In summary, these three box sets pay homage to the legacy of The Old Grey Whistle Test, encapsulating its essence, marking its milestones, and emphasizing its focus on live music. They provide listeners with an opportunity to experience the enchantment of this iconic show and appreciate the wide range of music it promoted. (B)

As a Special treat I have included the BBC special - The Old Grey Whistle Test, Live - For One Night Only. Hosted by Bob Harris, this live studio shows features music, special guests and rare archive to mark 30 years since the legendary series was last broadcast. Featuring performances from Peter Frampton, Richard Thompson, and Albert Lee among others. Posted in two formats


Now the only snag with compilations like this is that there are inevitably bands and artists left out. Whilst it show the breadth and depths of the extraordinary eclecticism of the bands featured, there are for me glaring errors and holes in the stars covered that it becomes a kind of average selection. To me it seems a tad biased towards American acts but that might be me! No Ry Cooder solo or with his bands who featured, no Frank Zappa?, Edgar Winter but no Johnny? Richard and Linda Thompson but no Fairport Convention?, no Neil Young or even CSNY? It goes on but it was such a great programme it became an institution, so its a well worth a listen of course



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