Various Artists - John Peel’s Dandelion: The Complete Dandelion Records Singles Collection 1969-1972

Peel the poacher turned gamekeeper as label boss

Since his death, there have been all manner of Peelings, from biographies to CD releases. Pulling together all of the singles released between 1969-72 on Peel’s own Dandelion label is one of the most fascinating. For Peel, it was a labour of love, as he signed artists that he personally liked, and who had no record deals. Indeed, he even served as producer on some of the sessions. Musically the canvas is daubed in wide-ranging colours, from the folk of Bridget St John, to a lame-sounding Gene Vincent, via Lol Coxhill’s free jazz. Very little troubled the charts, though Bill Oddie’s On Ilkla Moor Baht’at is a goodie, especially the amusing B-side, Hare Krishna. With acts like Medicine Head, Stackwaddy and Supersister, Dandelion never achieved any real commercial success, though Clifford T Ward’s Coathanger sounds very pleasing today. Ironically, it was Peel’s partner in this venture, Clive Selwood, who signed him. Though just as collectable as Island, Neon, Vertigo and Harvest, the roster was never as strong. Still, with a picture-strewn 48-page booklet detailing the label’s history (well written by Peel biographer and RC scribe Michael Heatley) this is a comprehensive collection for Peel lovers.

3 stars 3 stars 3 stars

Cherry Red | CRCD BOX 1

Reviewed by Ian Shirley
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