The Faces "Five Guys Walk Into A Bar" would end up somewhere in the middle of my top ten list of box sets. Ian McLagen assembled that set with so much TLC.
great picks...my favourite box set is comprised of 4 cassettes...Monterey International Pop Festival...1967...listening to that concert on tape really takes me back...
My favorite career/era-spanning CD box sets are (in no particular order, except for #1): 1. The Complete Elvis Presley Masters (2010) - This massive 30-CD Box set includes all the masters that were released during Elvis's lifetime (the first 27 CDs) and then some additional outtakes, alternate takes, rehearsals, live songs, demos, radio recordings, rare tracks, etc. on the final 3-CDs. My box set was the 1st edition that was limited and numbered to 1000 copies. This box set sold out during pre-sales and caused some disappointment amongst fans who wanted the set but weren't quick enough to pre-order on time before it sold out. So, RCA/Legacy/Sony agreed to make a 2nd edition that was identical except they weren't numbered. This particular set has a fantastic protective Display Case (numbered) that houses the collection. It contains a 240-page hardcover book detailing the complete discography (by session/chronological recording dates) and 1 certificate of authenticity that is numbered that matches the limited number of the set. (Even the shipping box, which I saved too, has the number labeled on the outside of the box.) If my house ever burned down, and I was only able to carry out one item to save, this would be it. (All my other stuff be damned. LOL) Also, I'd like to mention another complete Elvis set that was released in 2016 in a more affordable configuration and different presentation. It is called The RCA Albums Collection and is much more compact and easier to carry. It contains 60 CDs (All 57 albums in their original configuration plus 3 rarities discs---one from the '50s, one from the '60s, and one from the '70s.) I like this set too, especially if I just want to listen to a particular album, but I do prefer the Complete Masters set more. 2. Elvis Presley - A Boy From Tupelo: The complete 1953-1955 Recordings (2012 FTD Version) - This set covers the SUN Records years of Elvis and is 3-CDs along with a massive 527-page hardcover book that has over 1000 photos and weighs almost 11 lbs. A nice slipcase box protects the book and the sleeve containing the three CDs. As for the music, it contains all the masters from that period along with a couple private recordings that Elvis paid for out of his own money to make, demo acetates, session outtakes and radio and concert performances from the period. Needless to say, this set sold out quickly since it was limited to 5,000 copies. Five years later, RCA/Legacy/Sony decided to release it again in a budget format (without the massive hardcover book) for mass consumption. Between 2012 and 2017, supposedly a live recording from Louisiana Hayride of "I Forgot To Remember To Forget" was discovered and was included on the budget reissue at the cost of having to remove one of the radio interviews that was on the original FTD set. I own both versions for completeness sake. 3. The Doors - Infinite (2013 Analogue Productions Hybrid SACD box set) - I own all the Jim Morrison-fronted Doors albums 6 times over or more LOL and this is my favorite set by the Doors, including the Perception box set. 4. The Who - Thirty Years Of Maximum R&B (1994) - This was (and still is) a great box set that covered their career up to that point in time. Contains 4 CDs with a nice booklet. Lots of previously unreleased (at the time) material was included in this set. Every Who fan should own this. If I'm not mistaken, it was reissued years later in a more compact version. I own the original version. 5. The Who - Maximum As & Bs: The Complete Singles (2017) - This set contains all the Who singles (at the time), including the B-sides, on 5 CDs. Comes with a nice booklet too. Some of the B-sides make their first appearance on CD in this set too. As with the previous set, all Who fans should own this set too. 6a&b. The Beatles - Stereo & Mono Box sets (2009) - I own both official/authentic CD box sets (received on release day) and have enjoyed them immensely. I had no issues with my sets like some others did. So, I have no complaints with them. They sound great. It's all the Beatles I need regarding their studio albums. I don't own any other versions anymore of their studio albums because I like both these sets so well. 7. Led Zeppelin - Definitive Collection (2008) (12-CD Japan Mini LP Replica Box Set, Limited Edition) - As with The Doors, I own the Led Zeppelin discography 5 or 6 times over. This set is my favorite because of the original album presentations. There was a more expensive SHM-CD set that was released too. I opted for the normal CD set. Typical Japanese quality set with each album in their own original album replica sleeve along with an obi for each. (I also own the first 2 LZ remastered box sets from the early '90s, but the presentation wasn't satisfying since the songs were in no particular order, not to mention the 2 sets were released a couple years apart, with the first set containing the bulk of the songs and the second set containing the rest. And let's face it, "Heartbreaker" and "Living Loving Maid" should go hand in hand and with the original remastered box sets, one of the songs was on the first set and the other song was on the second set. Disappointing hearing one of those songs without the other. 8. Pink Floyd - Discovery Box Set (2011) - This was a great way to get all the remastered Pink Floyd albums at once. I consider myself just a casual fan of Pink Floyd, but this set is fantastic (I do own the 3 immersion sets that were released around the same time too of DSOTM, WYWH, and The Wall.) 9. Kiss - The Casablanca Singles:1974-1982 (2012) - This 29-CD box set contains all 29 singles (A-sides and B-sides) that were released during their Casablanca era. All Kiss fans should own this set. Comes with a nice booklet too 10. Iced Earth - Slave To The Dark (2008) (14-CD, 1-DVD, numbered limited edition Mini LP Box Set) - This set was mainly for collectors, but was also a fantastic way of getting all their studio and live albums (and DVD) from their Century Media label at the time. What made this a collector's set was the presentation. Fantastic artwork covering the box, not to mention their original albums artworks. Even though I already had all the individual albums twice over, I had to get this set. Wasn't disappointed. The order of these 10 are not set in stone, except for #1. That will always remain #1. Now, I could've included many other fantastic career/era-spanning box sets that I own. Many more Elvis box sets, especially the 3 different decades box sets and a few Singles collections box sets, but I wanted to limit my list to no more than 2 sets by a particular artist. I could've included a couple Judas Priest career spanning box sets I own too, but I knocked them down a bit due to awful remasters (presentation of those sets are fantastic, though.) Aerosmith's Box of Fire I thought about adding too but I'm not really the biggest fan of them. I'm more of a casual fan. Same with Cheap Trick The Complete Epic Albums Collection box set. The 3 different "Queen 40" box sets I could've included too, but due to a bare bones presentation, I didn't. Each box contains 5 CD albums in jewel cases. Each album does include a bonus EP disc of unreleased demos and/or live recordings. The albums were remastered well. Also, I want to give a shout out to The Complete Billy Joel CD Albums Collection from 2011 that I own. I'm not the biggest fan, but do enjoy his music casually. That box set was a fantastic set and a great way to get all his albums. Lastly, I want to mention the ongoing Def Leppard Collection Volume sets. So far, three of the volumes have been released with one more expected on the way some time next year (or later.) Great way to get all their albums, not to mention a bunch of rarities. There are many other career/era-spanning sets I own and enjoy too but I don't want to bore you by giving an exhaustive list. Side Note: I didn't include any box sets that only covered one album (such as the recent, fantastic Super Deluxe of The Who Sell Out or last year's Super Deluxe of Sign of the Times by Prince or many other fantastic Super Deluxe Box sets from my favorite artists.)
I was salivating reading your description about that 30-CD Complete Elvis Masters Box set. First-Thank you so much for taking the time to write your comment. I can’t tell you how enlightening it was. I’m a lifelong die-hard Elvis fan. But for me, the his catalog has always been a little tricky, because: 1. The quantity of songs he put out, but _also_ the quantity of great songs he put out; He really has countless songs that will always be “essential” for me. But, the problem is that they’re all scattered throughout his releases. Obviously, it’s not like just buying The Beatles discography; Elvis’s albums weren’t really “albums”-they were more like “a collection of songs”. So, you basically _have_ to own at least one of the large Sets. But I don’t think there has ever been a collection I have found that was not missing a ton of his songs that I love. The best I have found are the three Masters Boxsets (50s, 60s, 70s). Those are outstanding. I’m still confused as to the Audio quality of those, because if I remember correctly, there were two separate releases of those 3 sets; one was in the 90s and the other was within the last 15 years or so (I think). And I thought I remember reading that the newer release had much better sound quality. But I’m always worried about - whether or not a Box Set that I buy -is going to have the best Quality possible. Obviously, SQ is an enormous factor, so that’s been another problem I’ve had. The one other thing with Elvis is - Between live performances, outtakes, etc. etc… There are _hundreds_ of tracks that I absolutely love, that are not on his Albums. So, as great as those 3 Masters Sets are … I still can’t find a “perfect” Collection, with _all_ of the songs I want, with the very best sound quality, possible.
Great box sets. I particularly love the Pretty Things set. A true labour of love. I'd also strongly recommend the Sandy Denny Box set and also the 13th Floor Elevators box set. But i really like your choices. More recently, i'd recommend the recently released Trees box set (a great uk folk band) and the also recent Nirvana (UK) band box set. Amazing music beautifully presented.
The Pretty Things,they came from the Dartfort/Bexley area just outside of London.Dick Taylor was in the embryonic Rolling Stones when they were still calle Little boy blues and the blue boys.mich and Keith did rehearse with Dick at Dick's parent's house.The Pretties were one of the earliest bands i got into,thanks to my older sister.saw many of their gigs from the early 80's to 2018,the last gig at Greenwich's O2 Indigo was really the end of the era and the band finally came to rest with the death of Phil May in May 2020
Hi Mazzy, Ah well... being an aficionado and an incurable box set fan... well you had me at box set, my dear. Incredible show and tell as always. Absolutely gorgeous and sumptuous box sets. You are a man of taste and class. Thank goodness for music to help fill our uneasy minds amid these unsettling times. Here's to the physical media and here is hoping that the record companies don't forget the CD buying public when issuing these lovely items. God bless you sir and keep well, Tino
Lovely! Tha Cave box looks great. As a Birthday party fan who was lucky enough to see them in concert, I would still say Cave's peak started in 2004 with Abbatoir Blues/Lyre of Orpheus. He gets better with age. I love Village Green by the Kinks. That box-set looks magnificent! Peak Dylan, but so much. You explain it well though. It looks beautiful and I would love to spend some time with that piece, but I couldn't pull the trigger. Glad to see you poring over it. Thank you for sharing
Great video Mazzy 👏🏻. So much want the Kinks & Beatles box sets even though have them all individually .Blink & you miss out. Vinyl is truly back. All the best Liam ✌️❤️
Beautiful box sets!!! I wish I had picked up that Kinks box set. Regrets, regrets! The Beatles in mono is worthy of being number one but I really enjoyed seeing the Bob Dylan set too.
Great post ! "Freeway Madness" is not on Swan Song. It is on Warner Bros. like "Cross Talk". "Silk Torpedo and "Savage Eye" only are on Swan Song. 90% of this Boxset is coming from my collection.(my name is at the end of the book ;) ). I'm very happy to see that it's one of you 10 favorites Box sets ! Fantastic Box sets collection !
SF Sorrow is one of my all time great albums. Beggars Banquet had the toilet cover in the UK. I wasn't aware of any controversy about that cover until many years later. Remember this is the UK. We love toilet humour. Good vid, thanks.
Would love to see you do a video on best single album box set re-issues. So this might include last year’s Plastic Ono Band box, Kinks Lola vs. Powerman, Prince Sign of the Times, etc.
Thank you for actually talking about music. As in your segment on Sea Train, and The Blues Project. I remember them playing on late night FM radio in the 70's. None of my friends have ever heard of them or most of the other music I have. I have the blues project, sea train, peter rowan, danny korchmer, earth opera, Peter Green. Green played with the Dixie dregs to. Sorry, not big on top ten lists. Crazy covers, most expensive, rarest. I will subscribe.
Wow, that Pacific Northwest box is a piece of art for sure. If I collected CDs I'd be ordering it right now. I've considered getting the similar box on vinyl, but read the recordings suffer from a lot of technical difficulties that are really detrimental to the overall quality of the concerts. Is that true?
The Johnny Cash box set is great. One of my favourite sets though is a Natalie Merchant set with all her albums plus a couple of discs exclusive to the set. Wonderful.
I have a bunch of Grateful Dead box sets and that Pacific Northwest box is also my favorite in terms of packaging. The Dead do a great job with design and packaging of most of their box sets but that one is really gorgeous.
So beautyful. I love the boxsets by the Who and Steely Dan. Dylan's Basement Tapes box is amazing. The Doors, the Byrds and Nilsson boxsets are lovely, too. Do you have the scrapbook series? I own the Dylan scrapbook and saw that of Jimi Hendrix, both little treasures in their way.
A nice overview of some fabulous boxsets . I have the cd versions of the Stones and Beatles mono boxsets and they’re great . I also enjoy the fold over Beatles boxsets of their Capitol albums . I don’t mind the ( sometimes ) heavy handed reverb . To me , the best series of boxsets now are the Steven Wilson remixes of the Jethro Tull albums . They.are designed like hard cover books , and contain the remixes , live shows , and dvd / bluray audio and sometimes video . Also enclosed is a four colour book with photos and relevant information for that particular album . Best of all , you can usually get them for $50 - $60 when they’re released , and they don’t take up lots of space on your shelves . I look forward to more of your boxset videos . Cheers !
Another great video from the “pretentious prick”. I love how you get a stash box in that Dead box. Thanks for your efforts. I love to start my day with a cuppa joe, blueberry muffin, percocet and a Maz video (though I don’t get your love for Nick Cave).
I think that rubbing a stone on a bit of plastic to make music is completely nuts. None the less I love your thoughts, presentation, and music, and think you have a great channel going. The fact that our views differ on a lot of subjects makes it all the more interesting so keep up the good work and I'll keep watching the videos. Thank you Mr. Mazzy!
You are a busy guy. I can't keep up with all your videos. I do enjoy learning about many titles and artist from your collection. I was so focused on Beatles and other like groups in my youth I missed so many others. In the last twenty years I've added so much more. I do appreciate the time you take to share. Take care
I'd buy the Pretty Things box set, but I'm cheap and already have almost everything they ever recorded, even as the "Electric Banana"- I'd have to say they're my favorite rock band (RIP Phil May). Also like the early Rolling Stones, the Kinks (up to and including Soap Opera), Beatles, Roy Loney, the Toy Dolls, and my all-time favorite (is there a box set?) Louis Jordan.
You made me finally pick up The Beatles Mono Masters while I still can. I have several of the others from the box, but wish I just bought the entire box. I opted for the CDs at the time because I already had the earlier albums on mono from the 1988 box set. Now I need the mono White Album and I am happy.
i enjoyed this video very much. do you have any box sets done by bear family records? they are quite lavish with thick hardcover books. i have the set If You Go Away. it has all of Rod Mckuen's music on RCA records. it is one of my prized collections.
As always, thanks for your thoughts. I bought the stereo Beatles set on CD back in 2009. I wanted the mono set but couldn't quite swing the both of them. The Mono Masters LP's are a good compromise. They sound great. I believe it's still available for around $50. It is well worth it for any Beatles enthusiast who doesn't have the mono LP or CD sets. So many box sets are, sadly, ephemeral.
I bought the same set at the same time. Didn't think about the mono until a few years later, and at that point it had skyrocketed in price - and stayed there. So, still don't own it
Hey Mazzy, very interesting & enjoyable video as usual. I have a couple of those boxed sets including THE LP & CD versions of The Beatles In Mono box and the CD version of Johnny Cash "Unearthed" which is beautiful. Hard to pick a favourite as I have a number of notable boxed sets. You've got me thinking now. Thanks 🤔😉 I did have a chance to get the Dylan Mono box a few months back though I think it was the CD version from memory. Your Stones box looks fantastic. I will ponder my 10 faves and maybe come back share them with you. Cheers mate
Great video as always! Totally agree with top 2, I have the Beatles Mono, Stones and Kinks. I would also have included Black Sabbath Ten Year War. Great vid, keep going Maz!
Years ago I passed on Gene Krupa box. Maybe upwards to 10 discs. I will never forget that. Oh well. The Stones re-channeled stereo is a bummer. Thanks. Really enjoyed this video.
Stones rechanneled stereo have been gone for 20 years. The 2003 cds from 1963-70 are all real stereo or mono or mix of both. The mono box is a great alternate but I have always preferred the US editions of their London/Decca catalog.
Wish some company would redo that Duke Ellington set. I have all the material on the ''Chronogical'' Classics series and a few small RCA sets but would buy the mega-set without hesitation.
I have heard some of the RCA centennial stuff but I actually prefer the Classics Chronological for sound, so much more visceral and alive! You disagree?
Wonderful video Mazzy. Agree with the top 3. Actually, I don't have Dylan's big blue, :'( , just the 6-CD set and it's great. Definitely my favorite Dylan period. Overall, I think all of Dylan's official bootlegs on CDs have been amazing and they sound great. Kinks in mono is also extraordinary. I would love to have the Duke Ellington one, but it's so expensive ... Some other favorite: Berliner Philharmoniker direct to disc (Brahms and Bruckner), beautiful and wonderful sounding sets. Also Prince deluxe 1999 & Sign O' the times. On CD: Velvet Underground s/t 45th anniversary, Macca's Ram (deluxe), and I've been enjoying a lot the recent Lee Morgan Complete Lighthouse.
Here Comes the Nice, Small Faces. The sound is great. Great documentation, pics, etc. Just a great band. One take has Steve Marriott's vocal for Wham Bam Thank You Ma'm isolated which is a treat.
The Bee Gees box set "Tales From The Brothers Gibb: A History In Song 1967-1990" still offers some of the best sound quality on CD of all the eras of The Bee Gees, especially the early material which was remixed into new stereo versions by Bill Inglot.
A local FBM seller was offering a "mint" Beatles in Mono box last year for just $350, but I was afraid it might have been a counterfeit, so I passed on it.
Beautiful sets.. I need those Dead CD sets definitely. No one listens to classical music anymore. Some of the best box Sets ever made are classical sets. 😎😎
I find what you say depressing. A friend who is owns a record store is given big collections of classical music from universities, libraries etc and the go to storage - they won't sell in the store. Since the end of Tower, Hmv etc which had nice classical rooms people just don't know except some kids learning the violin or whatever.
I do have some of the boxsets that I've mentioned (Nick Cave and Johnny Cash). My own top ten of my private collection (no order in particular) »» Caravan - "Who Do You Think We Are?" »» The Smiths - "Complete" »» Pink Floyd - "The Early Years 1965-1972" »» The Go-Betweens - " G Stands For Go-Betweens: The Go-Betweens Anthology - Volume 2" »» Marc Almond - Trials Of Eyeliner (The Anthology 1979/2016) »» Gentle Giant - "Unburied Treasure" »» Gong - Love From The Planet Gong (The Virgin Years 1973-75) »» Tangerine Dream - In Search Of Hades (The Virgin Recordings 1973-1979) »» Prince - Sign "O" The Times »» The Divine Comedy - "Venus, Cupid, Folly And Time - Thirty Years Of The Divine Comedy"
My $0.02 - I am in minority I suppose but I prefer the Stereo box sets of The Beatles - have the vinyl and recently scored the CD set from a record shop. I love them and to me it sounds better than the Mono. I have to assume when I did the vinyl swap mono for stereo the guy kept asking are you sure. I don’t regret it and just love and cherish both sets. As for two other box sets and look it is impossible to do a Top 10 Box Set list because there are so many: The Band - A Musical History is just incredible with liner notes and CDs the book itself is incredible Roxy Music - The Thrill Of It All - it is more a highlights box set and the booklet is phenomenal to me it is the absolute best of glam rock (Sorry Bowie fans) Crosby, Stills, Nash - CSN - old set that came out in 1990 I have three variants on CD. I have always loved the artwork, the book is solid but the content is tops. Not sure if it is on vinyl but to me I tell people if you want CSN or CSN&Y or whatever variants they had and you wanted the ultimate overview this box set is it
The verbiage on the Mono Masters Vinyl hype sticker leads me to believe that they are not cut from analog. I was not aware that the Mono Box was NOT also from the analog tapes. Bummer, as i was thinking about picking that up. I bought the Stereo Box in 2009 (like everyone else! ha) but never got around to the Mono Box
@@mazzysmusic no no, i know the Vinyl ALBUMS are, i was speaking about the Mono Masters Vinyl 3-LP Set only. I was asking about the CD Mono Box NOT being from the analog tapes. Is that true?
Hello from Portugal ... can i ask you ... if you had to advise one friend about only one Bob Dylan book (cofee table style) that both ... looks beautiful and could tell his story ... what book would you advise ? thanks so much Greetings from Portugal Stay Safe & Keep Rockin
This is good for a basic overview of his songs. Beautifully designed with lots of photos. Fits the coffee table style you are looking for. Bob Dylan All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track Expanded Edition
Nice to see a man in the US have a love for Nick. I once sat down next to a girl..I said hi, she said hi, I’m Deanna 😊 Glad to see these listed. Thanks again
I have vast collection of Box sets. BEATLES MONO BOX both Vinyl And Cd right up there. KING CRIMSON BOXES are beautiful. Quality design and the Volume of music. YES STEVE WILSON MIXES . CASH AMERICAN RECORDINGS. ROXY MUSIC STUDIO ALBUMS . MILES DAVIS SEVEN STEPS TO HEAVEN. MILES DAVIS GIL EVANS. BOB MARLEY STUDIO ALBUMS BOX. BOWIE 5 YEARS VINYL BOX LOU REED VINYL BOX. BRIAN ENO WORKING BACKWARDS. KATE BUSH VINYL BOXES. ROLLING STONES MONO BOX VINYL. GREATFUL DEAD LIVE EUROPE 72 VINYL BOX. Some of the good ones.
Okay answer me this question my friend... What was the biggest disappointment as far as a box set that you've ever purchased for whatever reason? Thank you I appreciate you answering and this was a great video as always. 🤟✌️
A friend says (I've never heard it) that the Derek and Dominoes Layla box set actually detracts from the record. I personally tend to believe that the expanded Basement Tapes detracts from the 1974 version, but I understand them from the collector stand point.
Of the sets I have, the biggest letdown is the Buffalo Springfield box that Neil Young assembled while trying to pretend that Last Time Around (the third and final album) didn't exist. It also didn't include the extended version of "Bluebird" that had already been released on LP, and the fourth disc is just a 2-fer of first two albums, some of which had appeared already on the first three discs. It was also a pricey box when it came out. What a wasted opportunity. Second runner up is The Byrds first box set where Jim McGuinn seriously downplayed Gene Clark's early contributions, and the Sweetheart/Graham Parsons songs are split between two CDs.
My own COMPILATION SETS of best ever to fit and fill up one 80 MIn (CD OR DOUBLE ALBUMS ) TOP TEN + 2....most listenable alll way through.. would be the BUFFALO SPRINGFIELD./and young stills furay solo.....2 of HENDRIX..(AXIS EXP")..and LADYLAND GYPSY RAINBOW...2 of DYLAN ACOUSTIC / ELECTRIC.... JOE WALSH AND JAMES GANG ....CSNY and STEPHEN STILLS MANASSAS BE-ATLAS SOLO ALBUMS "IMAGINE FOREVER" ... .DEREK CLAPTON AND CREAM.... STEVIE WONDER & MARVIN GAYE...... PINK FLOYD AND KING CRIMSON...... ALLMAN "JOYS".... and AIRPLANE STARSHIP.... maybe not for vinyl purists but I like to make these CD's which hold the great best tracks, alternates and live together partially because no one puts them out exactly on vinyl cd or cassette, while they hold the best play lists I can imagine.....best for the computer files or car drives....solrocker blogspot HEY PANEAGLESONG
1. The Beatles(White Album) Super Deluxe Edition-The Beatles 2. The Bootleg Serie Vol. 1-3 Rare and Unreleased 1961-1991-Bob Dylan 3. Face the Music- Nils Lofgren 4. Tracks- Bruce Springsteen 5. Neil Young Archives Vol. 1 1963-1972 6. Dead Man's Pop- The Replacememts 7. The Complete Studio Recordings-Roxy Music 8. Sex,,America, Cheap Trick-Cheap Trick 9. Clash on Broadway-The Clash 10. Actung Baby Super Deluxe Edition- U2
Here are my top 10 box sets of all time Number 10 it is going to be Chicago bonus the bonus box that this is one of my favorite bands I absolutely love and it has a lot of great singles and songs from their very first album up into the present it has some really good studio stuff on there a five CD set it’s a fantastic box set which has great songs like hard to say I’m sorry, look away if you leave me now baby what a big surprise and marvelous package as well. The ninth box set is going to be one called good rocking tonight 75th anniversary which had to do with his birthday at the time this is a wonderful wonderful box set for those that want to get into Elvis Presley this is the one box set that I highly recommend along with Elvis 30 number one hits it’s a great starter for those that really want to get into his music, you get all of the essential tracks in this wonderful for CD set, including a live version of unchained melody and his career is greatly represented and it’s a real fantastic box set all the way through The next box Seth it’s going to be one called from the top by the carpenters what a marvelous for CDs that really is and I love the fact that it has 20 unreleased songs that weren’t available up until this awesome box that came out I love how the box setGoes from the carpenters career Raiden Richard carpenters living room from 1965 up until the last recorded song which was now before Karen Carpenters tragic untimely death and there are some great stuff on there some album cuts and some great unreleased songs, like I’ll be yours you love me and the wonderful version of Caravan featuring Karen Carpenter playing that awesome drum solo along with a song called ice tea which is great. that would be number eight. The seventh box set it’s going to be one called times three and that is by journey one of the greatest rock bands ever and it’s a really nice three CD box set this awesome set has not only some studio work before Steve Perry join to the band when they were originally called the Golden Gate rhythm machine but it has some Great studio recordings not just in the studio but I also live performances as well I had never heard of Journey live before up until I got this box that, and boy they are a really great live band and it’s great because you get to hear some songs from the 70s live in a couple songs from the 80s at the end of this awesome three CD box set.r this is a great package with a great track listing including, live versions of love and touch and squeeze in I’ll be all right without you songs like be good to your self only the Young all the great hits are here. The next box that on my list number six is going to be Connie Francis 19 albums this is a fantastic box set what a wonderful voice she has with wonderful songs like everybody’s somebody’s fool a cover of Elvis Presley heartbreak Hotel and a wonderful live album down at the coca cabana which is a fantastic album old man Melis is dead that’s a great song and there are some great bonus tracks as well One double CDs that I highly recommend is Connie Francis gold that’s where you get to hear all of the heads and I love the fact, that not only does she sing English but she sings Jewish songs Italian and Spanish songs as well. that is a fantastic box set The next album on my list is the 35th anniversary by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles what an awesome box said that really is I love how that this box set goes from the range first recordings of Smokey bargain center miracles up to one of his biggest hits one heartbeat it’s a fantastic for CD set with 97 songs such a great record company Motown records who put out some great stuff classics that will never die.I love every song on this for CD set including tears of a clown, one heartbeat and that you have stuff is great you with the first track being a job and answer to the silhouettes song called get a job actually I think the song by Smokey Robinson is called got a job which is a fantastic song by the way The next album on my list is going to be Fleetwood Mac 25 years the chain what a fantastic box set this is having wonderful music from the early Fleetwood Mac happened to the wonderful lineup at Stevie Nicks Christine McPhee and Lindsay Buckingham such great track listings one song I wish was on there but it’s not it’s called as long as you follow it always has been one of my favorite songs ever. I first heard it on Fleetwood Mac‘s greatest hits which is still a really good album of all the classic hits. I am a huge fan of exhausted box sets The more music and stuff and memorabilia I get to have the better being a big music collector than I am. The next box sat on my list it is going to be the fantastic box setBy Marty Robbins and the name of it is called under western skies, you get to hear all of Marty Robbins western recordings with songs like the Masters call Elpaso Elpaso city along with so many great songs from one of my favorite record companies called bear family recordsI love bear family records😊f because they have a wonderful sound quality and all of their box sets are fantastic when it comes to not only studio recordings but I’ll text as well and that would be number four and number three it is going to be one of the greatest jazz pianist ever and it’s by another record company which I love called verve records and the name of this great and awesome box set it’s called the complete verve recordings by the Teddy Wilson trio what a great piano player he was not only with his trio, but also with Billie Holiday and he played with the Benny Goodman Trio and quartet which featured Lionel Hampton on the vibraphone and this awesome box that is a fantastic five CD set has wonderful songs like air Mail special and decided it’s only a paper Moon I got rhythm by George Gershwin and approves that Josh can really swing and have fun at the same time. The second box set is another one from bear family records The name of it is called deep in the heart of twangs Ville from 1960 to 1962 by one of my favorite guitar players of all time named Dwayne Eddie I love his music I am a huge fan and he has such a great songs like the peppermint twist I am walking listen to the guitar man dance to the guitar man😊h rebel rouser one of the greatest songs ever recorded and I love the fact that you got to here and I’ll take a wild with flour which is one of my favorite songs.And my number one favorite box sets these are two box sets I think any Beatles fan these two box sets are essential if you want to listen to the Beatles music there are some great differences in the stereo and mono box sets everything is fantastic the packaging especially in a mono box set where they recreated the Beatles inner sleeves and album covers and I can’t say enough about these two awesome box sets and I love the fact that they didn’t go for the jeweled cases but they went with the cardboard ditty packs and I love the fact that you get kind of that nice Rice crispyPaper sleeves which protects the CDs together which is fantastic just like it was in the US Beatles albums box set Those are my top 10 box sets of all time and all of the ones that I think you would really enjoy Norman if you haven’t heard all of them already. I know I think you have the Beatles about stereo and mono box sets but all the others I’ve just mentioned I think you would love.
I am still looking for the Beatles in mono on vinyl I do have the CD version of it I only will do whatever it takes to get the mono box and I’m hoping the Apple well re-print more of the Beatles in mono box set to on vinyl I wanna make sure that the Beatles in mono from 2014 the final box that is real I’m not a fake one.
I was never blessed to make good money in my working career, so I could never budget for even one of these boxed sets you have. But............. I feel richly blessed, because, in the 1970's, as a teen and into my mid 20's, I was able to see, in concert, IN THEIR PRIME, artists such as: Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, ELP, Alice Cooper, Grand Funk Railroad, ZZ Top, The Who, Jethro Tull, Aerosmith, Ted Nugent, CSNY, & Chicago. I also saw Bob Dylan, Van Halen, Cheap Trick, and Gordon Lightfoot in the 70's. So, I ask you Norman, who did you get to see in their prime???
Dead PNW is sold out ( right after I started chasing their live stuff - bought the 3cd highlights). I love both of those Cash American series boxes - the second outtakes one slipped under most people’s radar.
I bought a second hand Beatles mono box last year for $1100CAD (900usd). It's a lot of money but couldn't pass it up considering what they are going for now
Thank goodness I don't like The Dead, otherwise I would have a lot less money - they really do make lovely sets for the fans. Very nice Pretty Things set - I'm a fan, with Parachute being my favorite.
I don't know. I kind of draw a line in the sand on box sets. $100 is it. And I have never bought a $100 set. The closest I came was the Dylan sacd box set. But as Max Smart says: Missed it by that much. Sometimes I'll find a good used box set like Playback or Sinatra Reprise, or Beach Boys Good Vibrations, for pennies, but dang this stuff can get pricey. Ultimately, I am a casual fan of all these groups and artists. I still have to have some money to spend on birds, you know. Even at my age.
Love the Byrds and they have a couple of CD boxes. Love the music but the boxes themselves don’t have the cool design factor. They need a full catalog vinyl set.
How does one actually listen to a box set like the Dylan one? Does anyone but a researcher writing a book ever really listen to 10 different versions of the same song to see how it came to be? I do like the vinyl singles, though. They provide a different way to experience the music.
I’m not sure if the Pretty Things are a purely cult band in the UK. They just never broke in America or were delayed in doing so a la the Kinks. They definitely rated with the UK pop cognoscenti, strongly influencing such people as Townshend and Bowie. SF Sorrow was recorded at Abbey Road at the same time as Sgt. Pepper and the Piper at the Gates of Dawn, using same engineer and even some of the same instruments. I thought it was funny you compared them to the Yardbirds and John Mayall but not the Stones, because their Guitarist, Dick Taylor, Keef’s school chum, actually left the Stones to form the Pretties. Plus Phil May was a outrageous as Jagger, especially in the hair and bisexuality department. Albeit the Stones were a bit more polished, music wise. The Pretties first album is closer to the Downliners Sect, sans the deerstalker hats.
Let It Bleed is my fave in spite of the minimal contribution from Brian Jones. If only he could have gotten his shit together, this album would have been STELLAR!!!
The Faces "Five Guys Walk Into A Bar" would end up somewhere in the middle of my top ten list of box sets. Ian McLagen assembled that set with so much TLC.
You can’t beat the Beatles Mono box. Perfect in every way!
great picks...my favourite box set is comprised of 4 cassettes...Monterey International Pop Festival...1967...listening to that concert on tape really takes me back...
My favorite career/era-spanning CD box sets are (in no particular order, except for #1):
1. The Complete Elvis Presley Masters (2010) - This massive 30-CD Box set includes all the masters that were released during Elvis's lifetime (the first 27 CDs) and then some additional outtakes, alternate takes, rehearsals, live songs, demos, radio recordings, rare tracks, etc. on the final 3-CDs. My box set was the 1st edition that was limited and numbered to 1000 copies. This box set sold out during pre-sales and caused some disappointment amongst fans who wanted the set but weren't quick enough to pre-order on time before it sold out. So, RCA/Legacy/Sony agreed to make a 2nd edition that was identical except they weren't numbered. This particular set has a fantastic protective Display Case (numbered) that houses the collection. It contains a 240-page hardcover book detailing the complete discography (by session/chronological recording dates) and 1 certificate of authenticity that is numbered that matches the limited number of the set. (Even the shipping box, which I saved too, has the number labeled on the outside of the box.) If my house ever burned down, and I was only able to carry out one item to save, this would be it. (All my other stuff be damned. LOL) Also, I'd like to mention another complete Elvis set that was released in 2016 in a more affordable configuration and different presentation. It is called The RCA Albums Collection and is much more compact and easier to carry. It contains 60 CDs (All 57 albums in their original configuration plus 3 rarities discs---one from the '50s, one from the '60s, and one from the '70s.) I like this set too, especially if I just want to listen to a particular album, but I do prefer the Complete Masters set more.
2. Elvis Presley - A Boy From Tupelo: The complete 1953-1955 Recordings (2012 FTD Version) - This set covers the SUN Records years of Elvis and is 3-CDs along with a massive 527-page hardcover book that has over 1000 photos and weighs almost 11 lbs. A nice slipcase box protects the book and the sleeve containing the three CDs. As for the music, it contains all the masters from that period along with a couple private recordings that Elvis paid for out of his own money to make, demo acetates, session outtakes and radio and concert performances from the period. Needless to say, this set sold out quickly since it was limited to 5,000 copies. Five years later, RCA/Legacy/Sony decided to release it again in a budget format (without the massive hardcover book) for mass consumption. Between 2012 and 2017, supposedly a live recording from Louisiana Hayride of "I Forgot To Remember To Forget" was discovered and was included on the budget reissue at the cost of having to remove one of the radio interviews that was on the original FTD set. I own both versions for completeness sake.
3. The Doors - Infinite (2013 Analogue Productions Hybrid SACD box set) - I own all the Jim Morrison-fronted Doors albums 6 times over or more LOL and this is my favorite set by the Doors, including the Perception box set.
4. The Who - Thirty Years Of Maximum R&B (1994) - This was (and still is) a great box set that covered their career up to that point in time. Contains 4 CDs with a nice booklet. Lots of previously unreleased (at the time) material was included in this set. Every Who fan should own this. If I'm not mistaken, it was reissued years later in a more compact version. I own the original version.
5. The Who - Maximum As & Bs: The Complete Singles (2017) - This set contains all the Who singles (at the time), including the B-sides, on 5 CDs. Comes with a nice booklet too. Some of the B-sides make their first appearance on CD in this set too. As with the previous set, all Who fans should own this set too.
6a&b. The Beatles - Stereo & Mono Box sets (2009) - I own both official/authentic CD box sets (received on release day) and have enjoyed them immensely. I had no issues with my sets like some others did. So, I have no complaints with them. They sound great. It's all the Beatles I need regarding their studio albums. I don't own any other versions anymore of their studio albums because I like both these sets so well.
7. Led Zeppelin - Definitive Collection (2008) (12-CD Japan Mini LP Replica Box Set, Limited Edition) - As with The Doors, I own the Led Zeppelin discography 5 or 6 times over. This set is my favorite because of the original album presentations. There was a more expensive SHM-CD set that was released too. I opted for the normal CD set. Typical Japanese quality set with each album in their own original album replica sleeve along with an obi for each. (I also own the first 2 LZ remastered box sets from the early '90s, but the presentation wasn't satisfying since the songs were in no particular order, not to mention the 2 sets were released a couple years apart, with the first set containing the bulk of the songs and the second set containing the rest. And let's face it, "Heartbreaker" and "Living Loving Maid" should go hand in hand and with the original remastered box sets, one of the songs was on the first set and the other song was on the second set. Disappointing hearing one of those songs without the other.
8. Pink Floyd - Discovery Box Set (2011) - This was a great way to get all the remastered Pink Floyd albums at once. I consider myself just a casual fan of Pink Floyd, but this set is fantastic (I do own the 3 immersion sets that were released around the same time too of DSOTM, WYWH, and The Wall.)
9. Kiss - The Casablanca Singles:1974-1982 (2012) - This 29-CD box set contains all 29 singles (A-sides and B-sides) that were released during their Casablanca era. All Kiss fans should own this set. Comes with a nice booklet too
10. Iced Earth - Slave To The Dark (2008) (14-CD, 1-DVD, numbered limited edition Mini LP Box Set) - This set was mainly for collectors, but was also a fantastic way of getting all their studio and live albums (and DVD) from their Century Media label at the time. What made this a collector's set was the presentation. Fantastic artwork covering the box, not to mention their original albums artworks. Even though I already had all the individual albums twice over, I had to get this set. Wasn't disappointed.
The order of these 10 are not set in stone, except for #1. That will always remain #1.
Now, I could've included many other fantastic career/era-spanning box sets that I own. Many more Elvis box sets, especially the 3 different decades box sets and a few Singles collections box sets, but I wanted to limit my list to no more than 2 sets by a particular artist. I could've included a couple Judas Priest career spanning box sets I own too, but I knocked them down a bit due to awful remasters (presentation of those sets are fantastic, though.) Aerosmith's Box of Fire I thought about adding too but I'm not really the biggest fan of them. I'm more of a casual fan. Same with Cheap Trick The Complete Epic Albums Collection box set. The 3 different "Queen 40" box sets I could've included too, but due to a bare bones presentation, I didn't. Each box contains 5 CD albums in jewel cases. Each album does include a bonus EP disc of unreleased demos and/or live recordings. The albums were remastered well. Also, I want to give a shout out to The Complete Billy Joel CD Albums Collection from 2011 that I own. I'm not the biggest fan, but do enjoy his music casually. That box set was a fantastic set and a great way to get all his albums. Lastly, I want to mention the ongoing Def Leppard Collection Volume sets. So far, three of the volumes have been released with one more expected on the way some time next year (or later.) Great way to get all their albums, not to mention a bunch of rarities. There are many other career/era-spanning sets I own and enjoy too but I don't want to bore you by giving an exhaustive list.
Side Note: I didn't include any box sets that only covered one album (such as the recent, fantastic Super Deluxe of The Who Sell Out or last year's Super Deluxe of Sign of the Times by Prince or many other fantastic Super Deluxe Box sets from my favorite artists.)
I was salivating reading your description about that 30-CD Complete Elvis Masters Box set.
First-Thank you so much for taking the time to write your comment. I can’t tell you how enlightening it was.
I’m a lifelong die-hard Elvis fan. But for me, the his catalog has always been a little tricky, because:
1. The quantity of songs he put out, but _also_ the quantity of great songs he put out; He really has countless songs that will always be “essential” for me. But, the problem is that they’re all scattered throughout his releases. Obviously, it’s not like just buying The Beatles discography; Elvis’s albums weren’t really “albums”-they were more like “a collection of songs”.
So, you basically _have_ to own at least one of the large Sets. But I don’t think there has ever been a collection I have found that was not missing a ton of his songs that I love.
The best I have found are the three Masters Boxsets (50s, 60s, 70s). Those are outstanding. I’m still confused as to the Audio quality of those, because if I remember correctly, there were two separate releases of those 3 sets; one was in the 90s and the other was within the last 15 years or so (I think). And I thought I remember reading that the newer release had much better sound quality.
But I’m always worried about - whether or not a Box Set that I buy -is going to have the best Quality possible. Obviously, SQ is an enormous factor, so that’s been another problem I’ve had.
The one other thing with Elvis is - Between live performances, outtakes, etc. etc… There are _hundreds_ of tracks that I absolutely love, that are not on his Albums.
So, as great as those 3 Masters Sets are …
I still can’t find a “perfect” Collection, with _all_ of the songs I want, with the very best sound quality, possible.
Great box sets. I particularly love the Pretty Things set. A true labour of love. I'd also strongly recommend the Sandy Denny Box set and also the 13th Floor Elevators box set. But i really like your choices. More recently, i'd recommend the recently released Trees box set (a great uk folk band) and the also recent Nirvana (UK) band box set. Amazing music beautifully presented.
The Pretty Things,they came from the Dartfort/Bexley area just outside of London.Dick Taylor was in the embryonic Rolling Stones when they were still calle Little boy blues and the blue boys.mich and Keith did rehearse with Dick at Dick's parent's house.The Pretties were one of the earliest bands i got into,thanks to my older sister.saw many of their gigs from the early 80's to 2018,the last gig at Greenwich's O2 Indigo was really the end of the era and the band finally came to rest with the death of Phil May in May 2020
Thanks for the details 🌟
Parachutes from the pretty things is a superb album.great band.
My favorite (by far) boxset that I own is Joni Mitchell’s Love Has Many Faces on 8 vinyl discs.
I had a chance to grab that Kinks box a few years ago and passed on it, kick myself every day. Great list, thanks for sharing :)
I was about to buy it but decided it was beyond my budget at a little over $400. I'm kicking myself too.
Hi Mazzy,
Ah well... being an aficionado and an incurable box set fan... well you had me at box set, my dear. Incredible show and tell as always.
Absolutely gorgeous and sumptuous box sets. You are a man of taste and class.
Thank goodness for music to help fill our uneasy minds amid these unsettling times. Here's to the physical media and here is hoping that the record companies
don't forget the CD buying public when issuing these lovely items.
God bless you sir and keep well,
Tino
Oh man. I gotta say....some amazing stuff ...the cutting edge.... damn !
Happy holidays massey
Does the Pretty Things box have any rarities? I have all the albums plus the Phillip Debarge and electric banana albums.
I'm sure it's been mentioned before, but both Beggars Banquet and Let it Bleed aren't true mono mixes. They're stereo fold downs.
Lovely! Tha Cave box looks great. As a Birthday party fan who was lucky enough to see them in concert, I would still say Cave's peak started in 2004 with Abbatoir Blues/Lyre of Orpheus. He gets better with age.
I love Village Green by the Kinks. That box-set looks magnificent!
Peak Dylan, but so much. You explain it well though. It looks beautiful and I would love to spend some time with that piece, but I couldn't pull the trigger. Glad to see you poring over it.
Thank you for sharing
Great video Mazzy 👏🏻.
So much want the Kinks & Beatles box sets even though have them all individually .Blink & you miss out.
Vinyl is truly back.
All the best Liam ✌️❤️
At least you have the individuals. The Beatles book is great the Kinks book okay 🌟
Beautiful box sets!!! I wish I had picked up that Kinks box set. Regrets, regrets! The Beatles in mono is worthy of being number one but I really enjoyed seeing the Bob Dylan set too.
Great post ! "Freeway Madness" is not on Swan Song. It is on Warner Bros. like "Cross Talk". "Silk Torpedo and "Savage Eye" only are on Swan Song. 90% of this Boxset is coming from my collection.(my name is at the end of the book ;) ). I'm very happy to see that it's one of you 10 favorites Box sets ! Fantastic Box sets collection !
Ah thanks. Knew there was a Warner’s Swan cross over at some point there ✌🏽
SF Sorrow is one of my all time great albums. Beggars Banquet had the toilet cover in the UK. I wasn't aware of any controversy about that cover until many years later. Remember this is the UK. We love toilet humour. Good vid, thanks.
My UK Beggars from 68 had the white cover. Never saw the toilet cover til 89 anywhere.
Would love to see you do a video on best single album box set re-issues. So this might include last year’s Plastic Ono Band box, Kinks Lola vs. Powerman, Prince Sign of the Times, etc.
Fabulous collection!
You just convinced me to check out the Pretty Things.
Thank you for actually talking about music. As in your segment on Sea Train, and The Blues Project. I remember them playing on late night FM radio in the 70's. None of my friends have ever heard of them or most of the other music I have. I have the blues project, sea train, peter rowan, danny korchmer, earth opera, Peter Green. Green played with the Dixie dregs to. Sorry, not big on top ten lists. Crazy covers, most expensive, rarest. I will subscribe.
I really need to get my hands on some Pretty Things. Fascinating look at some rare sets! Thank you.
Wow, that Pacific Northwest box is a piece of art for sure. If I collected CDs I'd be ordering it right now. I've considered getting the similar box on vinyl, but read the recordings suffer from a lot of technical difficulties that are really detrimental to the overall quality of the concerts. Is that true?
The Johnny Cash box set is great. One of my favourite sets though is a Natalie Merchant set with all her albums plus a couple of discs exclusive to the set. Wonderful.
Mazzy - when did you go HDR? The video looks incredible!
I have a bunch of Grateful Dead box sets and that Pacific Northwest box is also my favorite in terms of packaging. The Dead do a great job with design and packaging of most of their box sets but that one is really gorgeous.
So beautyful. I love the boxsets by the Who and Steely Dan. Dylan's Basement Tapes box is amazing. The Doors, the Byrds and Nilsson boxsets are lovely, too.
Do you have the scrapbook series? I own the Dylan scrapbook and saw that of Jimi Hendrix, both little treasures in their way.
Thanks for showcasing the Pretty Things box…it’s a perfect box in almost every way, IMO.
Love your Batman 66 t-shirt.
Three cheers for Pretty Things!!
Always enjoy the video’s but they always cost me money. Picked up the Nick Cave box set, thanks for the recommendation.
A nice overview of some fabulous boxsets . I have the cd versions of the Stones and Beatles mono boxsets and they’re great . I also enjoy the fold over Beatles boxsets of their Capitol albums . I don’t mind the ( sometimes ) heavy handed reverb . To me , the best series of boxsets now are the Steven Wilson remixes of the Jethro Tull albums . They.are designed like hard cover books , and contain the remixes , live shows , and dvd / bluray audio and sometimes video . Also enclosed is a four colour book with photos and relevant information for that particular album . Best of all , you can usually get them for $50 - $60 when they’re released , and they don’t take up lots of space on your shelves . I look forward to more of your boxset videos . Cheers !
Another great video from the “pretentious prick”. I love how you get a stash box in that Dead box. Thanks for your efforts. I love to start my day with a cuppa joe, blueberry muffin, percocet and a Maz video (though I don’t get your love for Nick Cave).
Nick Cave is over rated.
@@vinylrichie007 not hardly!
I saw it lying around at a Fnac in Paris for 1-2 years But also stupidly did not buy it. I do regret it but it was kinda heavy to carry.
I think that rubbing a stone on a bit of plastic to make music is completely nuts. None the less I love your thoughts, presentation, and music, and think you have a great channel going. The fact that our views differ on a lot of subjects makes it all the more interesting so keep up the good work and I'll keep watching the videos. Thank you Mr. Mazzy!
You have very nice boxset collections
You are a busy guy. I can't keep up with all your videos. I do enjoy learning about many titles and artist from your collection. I was so focused on Beatles and other like groups in my youth I missed so many others. In the last twenty years I've added so much more. I do appreciate the time you take to share. Take care
Amazing boxes. Pretty much unobtainium, but so cool to see. That Dylan 64-65 box. Wow! I have a new grail. Thanks Mazzy!
did you manage to pick up the recent 'all things must pass' 50th anniversary box set?
that PNW Dead box set is stunning and probably stunningly expensive now. Would love to have that.
Is the Kinks in Mono only available on LP?
I'd buy the Pretty Things box set, but I'm cheap and already have almost everything they ever recorded, even as the "Electric Banana"- I'd have to say they're my favorite rock band (RIP Phil May). Also like the early Rolling Stones, the Kinks (up to and including Soap Opera), Beatles, Roy Loney, the Toy Dolls, and my all-time favorite (is there a box set?) Louis Jordan.
You made me finally pick up The Beatles Mono Masters while I still can. I have several of the others from the box, but wish I just bought the entire box. I opted for the CDs at the time because I already had the earlier albums on mono from the 1988 box set. Now I need the mono White Album and I am happy.
Faces "You Can Make Me Dance" is also essential and features the original LPs plus on the CD edition great bonus material.
i enjoyed this video very much. do you have any box sets done by bear family records? they are quite lavish with thick hardcover books. i have the set If You Go Away. it has all of Rod Mckuen's music on RCA records. it is one of my prized collections.
I don’t have any of the Bear sets on vinyl. A few on CD like Louis Prima & Keely Smith
As always, thanks for your thoughts. I bought the stereo Beatles set on CD back in 2009. I wanted the mono set but couldn't quite swing the both of them. The Mono Masters LP's are a good compromise. They sound great. I believe it's still available for around $50. It is well worth it for any Beatles enthusiast who doesn't have the mono LP or CD sets. So many box sets are, sadly, ephemeral.
I bought the same set at the same time. Didn't think about the mono until a few years later, and at that point it had skyrocketed in price - and stayed there. So, still don't own it
As I am trying to rebuild what online stores are best to source the box sets that would ship internationally if you don’t mind me asking 🙏
Hey Mazzy, very interesting & enjoyable video as usual. I have a couple of those boxed sets including THE LP & CD versions of The Beatles In Mono box and the CD version of Johnny Cash "Unearthed" which is beautiful. Hard to pick a favourite as I have a number of notable boxed sets. You've got me thinking now. Thanks 🤔😉 I did have a chance to get the Dylan Mono box a few months back though I think it was the CD version from memory. Your Stones box looks fantastic. I will ponder my 10 faves and maybe come back share them with you. Cheers mate
I enjoyed watching your picks, and really like most of those. My favorite box sets are The Byrds, Beach Boys, Velvet Underground, and Tom Petty.
Not a lot 🇬🇧
Love your shelves! Where did you get your cd shelving? Or did you make them?
They were custom built ins. I sketched them out to fit the space and the some local built and installed them.
Thanks for watching ✌🏽
The Kate Bush, Ray Charles Atlantic and Bill Evans boxes are some of my favorites. All three sound stellar
Great video as always! Totally agree with top 2, I have the Beatles Mono, Stones and Kinks. I would also have included Black Sabbath Ten Year War. Great vid, keep going Maz!
I like that second GD boxset really cool looking set.
Years ago I passed on Gene Krupa box. Maybe upwards to 10 discs. I will never forget that. Oh well. The Stones re-channeled stereo is a bummer. Thanks. Really enjoyed this video.
Stones rechanneled stereo have been gone for 20 years. The 2003 cds from 1963-70 are all real stereo or mono or mix of both. The mono box is a great alternate but I have always preferred the US editions of their London/Decca catalog.
Wish some company would redo that Duke Ellington set. I have all the material on the ''Chronogical'' Classics series and a few small RCA sets but would buy the mega-set without hesitation.
I have heard some of the RCA centennial stuff but I actually prefer the Classics Chronological for sound, so much more visceral and alive! You disagree?
What about uber George Harrisson box ?
Wonderful video Mazzy. Agree with the top 3. Actually, I don't have Dylan's big blue, :'( , just the 6-CD set and it's great. Definitely my favorite Dylan period. Overall, I think all of Dylan's official bootlegs on CDs have been amazing and they sound great.
Kinks in mono is also extraordinary. I would love to have the Duke Ellington one, but it's so expensive ...
Some other favorite: Berliner Philharmoniker direct to disc (Brahms and Bruckner), beautiful and wonderful sounding sets. Also Prince deluxe 1999 & Sign O' the times.
On CD: Velvet Underground s/t 45th anniversary, Macca's Ram (deluxe), and I've been enjoying a lot the recent Lee Morgan Complete Lighthouse.
Here Comes the Nice, Small Faces. The sound is great. Great documentation, pics, etc. Just a great band. One take has Steve Marriott's vocal for Wham Bam Thank You Ma'm isolated which is a treat.
The Bee Gees box set "Tales From The Brothers Gibb: A History In Song 1967-1990" still offers some of the best sound quality on CD of all the eras of The Bee Gees, especially the early material which was remixed into new stereo versions by Bill Inglot.
I just bought the Coltrane Mono box on your recommendation.
A local FBM seller was offering a "mint" Beatles in Mono box last year for just $350, but I was afraid it might have been a counterfeit, so I passed on it.
Beautiful sets.. I need those Dead CD sets definitely. No one listens to classical music anymore. Some of the best box Sets ever made are classical sets. 😎😎
I find what you say depressing. A friend who is owns a record store is given big collections of classical music from universities, libraries etc and the go to storage - they won't sell in the store. Since the end of Tower, Hmv etc which had nice classical rooms people just don't know except some kids learning the violin or whatever.
What about George’s Uber set Mazzy?
I do have some of the boxsets that I've mentioned (Nick Cave and Johnny Cash).
My own top ten of my private collection (no order in particular)
»» Caravan - "Who Do You Think We Are?"
»» The Smiths - "Complete"
»» Pink Floyd - "The Early Years 1965-1972"
»» The Go-Betweens - " G Stands For Go-Betweens: The Go-Betweens Anthology - Volume 2"
»» Marc Almond - Trials Of Eyeliner (The Anthology 1979/2016)
»» Gentle Giant - "Unburied Treasure"
»» Gong - Love From The Planet Gong (The Virgin Years 1973-75)
»» Tangerine Dream - In Search Of Hades (The Virgin Recordings 1973-1979)
»» Prince - Sign "O" The Times
»» The Divine Comedy - "Venus, Cupid, Folly And Time - Thirty Years Of The Divine Comedy"
My $0.02 - I am in minority I suppose but I prefer the Stereo box sets of The Beatles - have the vinyl and recently scored the CD set from a record shop. I love them and to me it sounds better than the Mono. I have to assume when I did the vinyl swap mono for stereo the guy kept asking are you sure. I don’t regret it and just love and cherish both sets.
As for two other box sets and look it is impossible to do a Top 10 Box Set list because there are so many:
The Band - A Musical History is just incredible with liner notes and CDs the book itself is incredible
Roxy Music - The Thrill Of It All - it is more a highlights box set and the booklet is phenomenal to me it is the absolute best of glam rock (Sorry Bowie fans)
Crosby, Stills, Nash - CSN - old set that came out in 1990 I have three variants on CD. I have always loved the artwork, the book is solid but the content is tops. Not sure if it is on vinyl but to me I tell people if you want CSN or CSN&Y or whatever variants they had and you wanted the ultimate overview this box set is it
great video, really enjoyed it
The verbiage on the Mono Masters Vinyl hype sticker leads me to believe that they are not cut from analog.
I was not aware that the Mono Box was NOT also from the analog tapes. Bummer, as i was thinking about picking that up. I bought the Stereo Box in 2009 (like everyone else! ha) but never got around to the Mono Box
The white Beatles mono box is all analogue. It was cut from the tapes. There is no digital step anywhere. Sane w the mono masters that came in the box
@@mazzysmusic no no, i know the Vinyl ALBUMS are, i was speaking about the Mono Masters Vinyl 3-LP Set only.
I was asking about the CD Mono Box NOT being from the analog tapes. Is that true?
I certainly would have included the 13th Floor Elevators box - Music of the Spheres
Hello from Portugal ... can i ask you ... if you had to advise one friend about only one Bob Dylan book (cofee table style) that both ... looks beautiful and could tell his story ... what book would you advise ?
thanks so much
Greetings from Portugal
Stay Safe & Keep Rockin
This is good for a basic overview of his songs. Beautifully designed with lots of photos. Fits the coffee table style you are looking for.
Bob Dylan All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track Expanded Edition
awesome matey
Nice to see a man in the US have a love for Nick. I once sat down next to a girl..I said hi, she said hi, I’m Deanna 😊 Glad to see these listed. Thanks again
Wondering if you have any of the CCR box sets and how are they?
Yes I have the Analogue Productions CCR box. Great set
@@mazzysmusicthanks! love to see you review some CCR some time.
Seeing the Dead box made me want one….sold out! Doh! 😀
I have vast collection of Box sets.
BEATLES MONO BOX both Vinyl
And Cd right up there.
KING CRIMSON BOXES are beautiful.
Quality design and the Volume of music.
YES STEVE WILSON MIXES .
CASH AMERICAN RECORDINGS.
ROXY MUSIC STUDIO ALBUMS .
MILES DAVIS SEVEN STEPS TO HEAVEN.
MILES DAVIS GIL EVANS.
BOB MARLEY STUDIO ALBUMS BOX.
BOWIE 5 YEARS VINYL BOX
LOU REED VINYL BOX.
BRIAN ENO WORKING BACKWARDS.
KATE BUSH VINYL BOXES.
ROLLING STONES MONO BOX VINYL.
GREATFUL DEAD LIVE EUROPE 72 VINYL BOX.
Some of the good ones.
Speaking of Nick Cave, I’ve preordered the vinyl box set of B Sides and Rarities. Such is his quality control that’s going to be a great set too.
Me too 🌟
“Zombie Heaven” is a great box set. Foreword by Tom Petty, postscript by Lenny Kaye. Everything/most of what the Zombies recorded.
Okay answer me this question my friend... What was the biggest disappointment as far as a box set that you've ever purchased for whatever reason? Thank you I appreciate you answering and this was a great video as always. 🤟✌️
Good question!! 👍
A friend says (I've never heard it) that the Derek and Dominoes Layla box set actually detracts from the record. I personally tend to believe that the expanded Basement Tapes detracts from the 1974 version, but I understand them from the collector stand point.
Of the sets I have, the biggest letdown is the Buffalo Springfield box that Neil Young assembled while trying to pretend that Last Time Around (the third and final album) didn't exist. It also didn't include the extended version of "Bluebird" that had already been released on LP, and the fourth disc is just a 2-fer of first two albums, some of which had appeared already on the first three discs. It was also a pricey box when it came out. What a wasted opportunity.
Second runner up is The Byrds first box set where Jim McGuinn seriously downplayed Gene Clark's early contributions, and the Sweetheart/Graham Parsons songs are split between two CDs.
Johnny Cash Box set is my FAV!!!
My own COMPILATION SETS of best ever to fit and fill up one 80 MIn (CD OR DOUBLE ALBUMS ) TOP TEN + 2....most listenable alll way through.. would be the BUFFALO SPRINGFIELD./and young stills furay solo.....2 of HENDRIX..(AXIS EXP")..and LADYLAND GYPSY RAINBOW...2 of DYLAN ACOUSTIC / ELECTRIC.... JOE WALSH AND JAMES GANG ....CSNY and STEPHEN STILLS MANASSAS BE-ATLAS SOLO ALBUMS "IMAGINE FOREVER" ... .DEREK CLAPTON AND CREAM.... STEVIE WONDER & MARVIN GAYE...... PINK FLOYD AND KING CRIMSON...... ALLMAN "JOYS".... and AIRPLANE STARSHIP.... maybe not for vinyl purists but I like to make these CD's which hold the great best tracks, alternates and live together partially because no one puts them out exactly on vinyl cd or cassette, while they hold the best play lists I can imagine.....best for the computer files or car drives....solrocker blogspot HEY PANEAGLESONG
1. The Beatles(White Album) Super Deluxe Edition-The Beatles
2. The Bootleg Serie Vol. 1-3 Rare and Unreleased 1961-1991-Bob Dylan
3. Face the Music- Nils Lofgren
4. Tracks- Bruce Springsteen
5. Neil Young Archives Vol. 1 1963-1972
6. Dead Man's Pop- The Replacememts
7. The Complete Studio Recordings-Roxy Music
8. Sex,,America, Cheap Trick-Cheap Trick
9. Clash on Broadway-The Clash
10. Actung Baby Super Deluxe Edition- U2
That mono stones box is also digitally cut. But still very nice
Here are my top 10 box sets of all time Number 10 it is going to be Chicago bonus the bonus box that this is one of my favorite bands I absolutely love and it has a lot of great singles and songs from their very first album up into the present it has some really good studio stuff on there a five CD set it’s a fantastic box set which has great songs like hard to say I’m sorry, look away if you leave me now baby what a big surprise and marvelous package as well. The ninth box set is going to be one called good rocking tonight 75th anniversary which had to do with his birthday at the time this is a wonderful wonderful box set for those that want to get into Elvis Presley this is the one box set that I highly recommend along with Elvis 30 number one hits it’s a great starter for those that really want to get into his music, you get all of the essential tracks in this wonderful for CD set, including a live version of unchained melody and his career is greatly represented and it’s a real fantastic box set all the way through The next box Seth it’s going to be one called from the top by the carpenters what a marvelous for CDs that really is and I love the fact that it has 20 unreleased songs that weren’t available up until this awesome box that came out I love how the box setGoes from the carpenters career Raiden Richard carpenters living room from 1965 up until the last recorded song which was now before Karen Carpenters tragic untimely death and there are some great stuff on there some album cuts and some great unreleased songs, like I’ll be yours you love me and the wonderful version of Caravan featuring Karen Carpenter playing that awesome drum solo along with a song called ice tea which is great. that would be number eight. The seventh box set it’s going to be one called times three and that is by journey one of the greatest rock bands ever and it’s a really nice three CD box set this awesome set has not only some studio work before Steve Perry join to the band when they were originally called the Golden Gate rhythm machine but it has some Great studio recordings not just in the studio but I also live performances as well I had never heard of Journey live before up until I got this box that, and boy they are a really great live band and it’s great because you get to hear some songs from the 70s live in a couple songs from the 80s at the end of this awesome three CD box set.r this is a great package with a great track listing including, live versions of love and touch and squeeze in I’ll be all right without you songs like be good to your self only the Young all the great hits are here. The next box that on my list number six is going to be Connie Francis 19 albums this is a fantastic box set what a wonderful voice she has with wonderful songs like everybody’s somebody’s fool a cover of Elvis Presley heartbreak Hotel and a wonderful live album down at the coca cabana which is a fantastic album old man Melis is dead that’s a great song and there are some great bonus tracks as well One double CDs that I highly recommend is Connie Francis gold that’s where you get to hear all of the heads and I love the fact, that not only does she sing English but she sings Jewish songs Italian and Spanish songs as well. that is a fantastic box set The next album on my list is the 35th anniversary by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles what an awesome box said that really is I love how that this box set goes from the range first recordings of Smokey bargain center miracles up to one of his biggest hits one heartbeat it’s a fantastic for CD set with 97 songs such a great record company Motown records who put out some great stuff classics that will never die.I love every song on this for CD set including tears of a clown, one heartbeat and that you have stuff is great you with the first track being a job and answer to the silhouettes song called get a job actually I think the song by Smokey Robinson is called got a job which is a fantastic song by the way The next album on my list is going to be Fleetwood Mac 25 years the chain what a fantastic box set this is having wonderful music from the early Fleetwood Mac happened to the wonderful lineup at Stevie Nicks Christine McPhee and Lindsay Buckingham such great track listings one song I wish was on there but it’s not it’s called as long as you follow it always has been one of my favorite songs ever. I first heard it on Fleetwood Mac‘s greatest hits which is still a really good album of all the classic hits. I am a huge fan of exhausted box sets The more music and stuff and memorabilia I get to have the better being a big music collector than I am. The next box sat on my list it is going to be the fantastic box setBy Marty Robbins and the name of it is called under western skies, you get to hear all of Marty Robbins western recordings with songs like the Masters call Elpaso Elpaso city along with so many great songs from one of my favorite record companies called bear family recordsI love bear family records😊f because they have a wonderful sound quality and all of their box sets are fantastic when it comes to not only studio recordings but I’ll text as well and that would be number four and number three it is going to be one of the greatest jazz pianist ever and it’s by another record company which I love called verve records and the name of this great and awesome box set it’s called the complete verve recordings by the Teddy Wilson trio what a great piano player he was not only with his trio, but also with Billie Holiday and he played with the Benny Goodman Trio and quartet which featured Lionel Hampton on the vibraphone and this awesome box that is a fantastic five CD set has wonderful songs like air Mail special and decided it’s only a paper Moon I got rhythm by George Gershwin and approves that Josh can really swing and have fun at the same time. The second box set is another one from bear family records The name of it is called deep in the heart of twangs Ville from 1960 to 1962 by one of my favorite guitar players of all time named Dwayne Eddie I love his music I am a huge fan and he has such a great songs like the peppermint twist I am walking listen to the guitar man dance to the guitar man😊h rebel rouser one of the greatest songs ever recorded and I love the fact that you got to here and I’ll take a wild with flour which is one of my favorite songs.And my number one favorite box sets these are two box sets I think any Beatles fan these two box sets are essential if you want to listen to the Beatles music there are some great differences in the stereo and mono box sets everything is fantastic the packaging especially in a mono box set where they recreated the Beatles inner sleeves and album covers and I can’t say enough about these two awesome box sets and I love the fact that they didn’t go for the jeweled cases but they went with the cardboard ditty packs and I love the fact that you get kind of that nice Rice crispyPaper sleeves which protects the CDs together which is fantastic just like it was in the US Beatles albums box set
Those are my top 10 box sets of all time and all of the ones that I think you would really enjoy Norman if you haven’t heard all of them already. I know I think you have the Beatles about stereo and mono box sets but all the others I’ve just mentioned I think you would love.
No ATMP? 🤔
Not in the top ten 🌟
You already have two thumbs down. You aren't part of the VC unless you get a thumbs down.
I am still looking for the Beatles in mono on vinyl I do have the CD version of it I only will do whatever it takes to get the mono box and I’m hoping the Apple well re-print more of the Beatles in mono box set to on vinyl I wanna make sure that the Beatles in mono from 2014 the final box that is real I’m not a fake one.
The Pretty Things drove The Mamas and Papas insane
I love the Tom petty box sets as well
I was never blessed to make good money in my working career, so I could never budget for even one of these boxed sets you have. But............. I feel richly blessed, because, in the 1970's, as a teen and into my mid 20's, I was able to see, in concert, IN THEIR PRIME, artists such as: Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, ELP, Alice Cooper, Grand Funk Railroad, ZZ Top, The Who, Jethro Tull, Aerosmith, Ted Nugent, CSNY, & Chicago. I also saw Bob Dylan, Van Halen, Cheap Trick, and Gordon Lightfoot in the 70's.
So, I ask you Norman, who did you get to see in their prime???
I think I could do this. I might have ten box sets.
Four are Grateful Dead concerts.
Dead PNW is sold out ( right after I started chasing their live stuff - bought the 3cd highlights). I love both of those Cash American series boxes - the second outtakes one slipped under most people’s radar.
I bought a second hand Beatles mono box last year for $1100CAD (900usd). It's a lot of money but couldn't pass it up considering what they are going for now
Thank goodness I don't like The Dead, otherwise I would have a lot less money - they really do make lovely sets for the fans. Very nice Pretty Things set - I'm a fan, with Parachute being my favorite.
I don't know. I kind of draw a line in the sand on box sets. $100 is it. And I have never bought a $100 set. The closest I came was the Dylan sacd box set. But as Max Smart says: Missed it by that much. Sometimes I'll find a good used box set like Playback or Sinatra Reprise, or Beach Boys Good Vibrations, for pennies, but dang this stuff can get pricey. Ultimately, I am a casual fan of all these groups and artists. I still have to have some money to spend on birds, you know. Even at my age.
Where are the great Byrds box-sets ???
Love the Byrds and they have a couple of CD boxes. Love the music but the boxes themselves don’t have the cool design factor. They need a full catalog vinyl set.
How does one actually listen to a box set like the Dylan one? Does anyone but a researcher writing a book ever really listen to 10 different versions of the same song to see how it came to be? I do like the vinyl singles, though. They provide a different way to experience the music.
This guy must be rich, I'm jealous! Some great picks but why no classical?
Not rich. I just work and music us my main interest for half a century. I have classical records and CDs too just not here
Elvis' box set greatest of all!
I’m not sure if the Pretty Things are a purely cult band in the UK. They just never broke in America or were delayed in doing so a la the Kinks. They definitely rated with the UK pop cognoscenti, strongly influencing such people as Townshend and Bowie. SF Sorrow was recorded at Abbey Road at the same time as Sgt. Pepper and the Piper at the Gates of Dawn, using same engineer and even some of the same instruments. I thought it was funny you compared them to the Yardbirds and John Mayall but not the Stones, because their Guitarist, Dick Taylor, Keef’s school chum, actually left the Stones to form the Pretties. Plus Phil May was a outrageous as Jagger, especially in the hair and bisexuality department. Albeit the Stones were a bit more polished, music wise. The Pretties first album is closer to the Downliners Sect, sans the deerstalker hats.
U can only have (1) favorite Stone's album. So is it "Aftermath" or "Beggar's Banquet" - U mentioned both.
Beggar's Banquet
Beggars is my number one but Aftermath is my fave earlier period. Silly really since it’s only two years earlier but seems like eons apart 🤷🏻♂️
Let It Bleed is my fave in spite of the minimal contribution from Brian Jones. If only he could have gotten his shit together, this album would have been STELLAR!!!
The looney tunes triple lp probably isnt a box set but it was a fine 3 lp set.