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In this episode of Needlepoint, hosts Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea explore the rich tapestry of rock music through the lens of the latest issue of Record Collector.

They pay tribute to the recent passing of music legends Sly Stone and Brian Wilson, discussing their profound impact on their respective genres.

The conversation delves into the artistic journeys of both musicians, their influence on the music industry, and the evolution of the Beach Boys' sound and their sometimes overlooked albums.

The hosts also discuss the Ramones' role in the punk rock movement, the collectability of vinyl records, and the significance of 1975 in music history.

Listen to the musings of these musical aficionados.

#musicpodcast #BeachBoys #SlyStone #Ramones #punk #vinyl #musichistory #folkrock

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Goth refuses to die – and thank goodness for that. In this enlightening episode of Needlepoint, Paul Lester and Daryl Easley explore the enduring appeal of goth music and culture through Record Collector's latest issue featuring Bauhaus frontman Peter Murphy.

What makes goth so persistently captivating? We trace its evolution from its post-punk origins through to The Cure's chart-topping 2024 album, examining how it became the genre that simply wouldn't fade away. Peter Murphy emerges as the fascinating centerpiece – the "crown prince of camp magniloquence" who took David Bowie's theatrical baton and ran with it in his own distinctive direction.

We dive into the rich cultural tapestry that informed goth's development, from late-night BBC horror double bills to vampire mythology. The genre's powerful visual iconography and cross-gender appeal helped create not just a musical movement but a complete aesthetic universe that continues to attract younger generations decades after its inception. As Daryl aptly notes, "Why wouldn't you want to be called goth? Goth is a badge of honour."

Beyond our main feature, we explore this month's "triple Pete spectacular" with additional features on Peter Doherty and Peter Tosh, plus our guide to New York's essential 45s from across the five boroughs. The episode wraps with passionate discussions about recent concert experiences and teases next month's 50th anniversary Ramones special.

Whether you're a weekend Bauhaus fan or a dedicated follower of all things dark and dramatic, join us for this fascinating exploration of a genre that transformed melancholia into something epic, theatrical, and endlessly appealing. Like the vampires that inspired it, goth music has achieved its own form of immortality.

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Step into the passionate world of vinyl collectors and music aficionados with Needlepoint, the fresh voice in music podcasting from Record Collector magazine. Magazine editor Paul Lester and Rare Record Price Guide editor Daryl Easlea invite you to experience rock's rich tapestry through their expert lens, offering insights that only decades of immersion in music culture could provide.

The debut episode centres on Johnny Rotten's surprising record collection, revealing how the punk icon's musical tastes extended far beyond the confines of his public persona. Through an exclusive interview, we discover Lydon finding solace in his vinyl collection following the loss of his beloved wife Nora, presenting a touching human side rarely seen in traditional media coverage. This 14-page feature exemplifies Record Collector's commitment to exploring artists beyond surface-level narratives.

The music of 10cc, Missy Elliott, and The Jam are all under the scrutiny of Lester and Easlea.

For collectors, the podcast delivers invaluable market insights as Easlea shares expert knowledge on valuation fluctuations, revealing how 90s vinyl has surged in value. Anecdotes about attending auctions, discovering records valued at thousands, and the preservation of musical memorabilia (including signed ABBA soap!) provide both practical collecting wisdom and charming glimpses into music's material culture.

Join us monthly for this needle-sharp exploration of music history, collecting culture, and the stories behind your favourite albums. Whether you're a serious collector or simply curious about the tales your records could tell, Needlepoint connects the grooves that bring music's hidden histories to life.