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Japanese CD of the day / Robert Palmer Island Years 1974-1985

Rober Palmer / Island Years 1974-1985 Japanese box set
Robert Palmer / Island Years 1974-1985 Japanese box set (click to enlarge)

Robert Palmer’s back catalogue has been shamefully out of print for many years, and only recently have US specialist Culture Factory sought to do something about this, with a few select reissues.

However,  Island Years 1974-1985 is a rather special box set released only in Japan in 2007, with an exclusive (and excellent) remastering that has never been used anywhere else. It includes all Robert Palmer’s albums originally released on the Island label between 1974 and 1985: Sneakin’ Sally Through The Alley (1974), Pressure Drop (1975), Some People Can Do What They Like (1976), Double Fun (1978), Secrets (1979), Clues (1980), Maybe It’s Live (1982 – with original cover), Pride (1983) and Riptide (1985). Each disc is presented in an exquisitely detailed mini LP-style vinyl replica sleeve.

Unfortunately, for the collector, these sets are now horribly expensive on the used market, but should you ever be tempted you will not be disappointed! Check out the prices below to see what I mean, but also read the reviews!

UK Order: Island Years 1974-1985
“Secrets” from the Japanese box. Inner sleeve exactly replicated.

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Jason

I paid roughly $320 for mine a few years ago now. I felt like I was biting the bullet then, but glad I did. It’s a real shame the music of this incredible talent can’t seem to get the proper treatment/respect that it deserves.

[…] and being a Japanese release offers appeal and exclusivity. The Robert Palmer Island Years paper sleeve box from 2007 has some similarities – unique mastering, only available in Japan – and that is now […]

[…] recently mused on the fact that Robert Palmer has been somewhat forgotten by the music industry, it was a pleasant surprise only days later to learn of some new reissues […]

Shaun

Sorry, meant thanks to Tim for that one…

Justin

Would love a good remaster of “Riptide”, with b-sides and 12″ mixes on a second disc released separately. It’s the only one I’m interested in.

Shaun

Thanks for the tip, Justin. Looks like there will also be a set for Ridin’ High/Honey:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Ridin-High-Honey-Robert-Palmer/dp/B009N8SE94/ref=pd_sim_sbs_m_h__1

Tim Lindsay

Huge fan of Robert’s and would have loved to grab this set before it became so rare and pricey.

Excited for this latter-day 2-album reissue with bonuses: http://www.sainsburysentertainment.co.uk/en/Music/CD/Robert-Palmer/Heavy-Nova-Plus-Don-T-Explain-Plus/product.html?product=E11147757

Shaun

Wish I knew about this set when it came out. How do the discs sound? Culture Factory botched their remasters if you ask me. They sound awfully shrill and tinny. The original Island discs still seem to hold their value and are sought after.