SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT-RICHARDS EAR LING

Richard Searling is revered by most who went to the legendary Station Road venue as the most consistently innovative and inspirational of all the DJs there. His book, Setting The Record Straight, comes with not one, but two subtitles, namely Music and Memories from Wigan Casino 1973-1981, and The Soundtrack to my Life as a DJ at Wigan Casino. It is an eight-year or so snapshot, with the main subject matter covering 160 records he first introduced to the scene, many of which are popular oldies nearly 40 years after they were released, and complete with label scans, snippets about the artist and Richard’s anecdotes. Many of these iconic tracks when first played were not revealed, as in the artist and/or title having been changed. This two-fold practice was taken from a Jamaican sound system to confound bootleggers and ensure the DJ retained exclusivity of a particular sound. During the golden years of the Northern Soul scene, once a record was bootlegged, or for that matter legally re-issued, often due to demand, top DJs would drop what had been a popular spin like a hot potato. In addition to the records included, Richard sets the record straight from his own viewpoint. Let's say there are more than a few long-held urban myths from the Wigan Casino days which, although intrinsically linked, have been turned on their heads by Richard’s revelations. This is a captivating read, and packed with interesting information about records, how some of them were sourced, soul clubs of the era, and much more besides. It will appeal not only to those who were around during those heady times,but also for anyone with a passing interest in Northern Soul, British subcultures and 20th century UK urban history. An essential book, it will prove to be an invaluable source for all Northern Soul connoisseurs.

Note: As Scootering went to press it was announced that the print run of hardback editions had sold out. Paperback editions are available via mail order from www.raresoulvinyl.co.uk