[total-madness] Mad CD

[Adam Fowler]

Hi folks.  I am just writing in to let you know that I've come across the most fantastic Madness bootleg ever.  I know a guy who knows a guy who sells these for a living and he knows I'm a big fan and he picked it up for me.  It's called "First Step Beyond" and I haven't counted the tracklisting but it must be well over 20 tracks.  Whoever originally compiled it must have been mates with the band, or a very clever burglar, as there are quite a few home demoes and rarities that would surely never be released.   Highlights are:- Home demo of 'Time'  Carl saying "Shit, sorry tape recorder" and starting again, then messing up the piano solo, "Donald, Home demo" which I've never heard of, and Woody's Michael Caine demo, with no lyrics.  There must be all the jingles they did for radio on here, (John Peel, Kelly Temple, Steve Wright...) not to mention covers of Listen To Your Father (even though Carl wrote it) and My Mum's Roses (I don't know where that's from.)   Anyway, it's absolutely fantastic and I wouldn't dream of keeping to myself, so if anyone wants it, I'm going to sell it for a tenner (three quid more than usual as I'm seriously in debt) and you can e-mail me off list for details.   A very happy fellow, roll on Velvet Ghost album,   Adam www.peoplesound.com/artist/blanche .   P.S. Does anyone know where I can write to Carl, I'm sure he'd love to hear some of this.   P.P.S.  Er, my band have a mini-album coming soon that will blow your tits off.  Cheerio!