The Island Book of Records Volume II: 1969-70

The second volume in this highly collectable series, The Island Book of Records Volume II, delves into the pivotal years of 1969-70, a period that saw Island Records strategically building upon their earlier success with the Spencer Davis Group by actively seeking out the freshest British rock talent. By the close of this dynamic era, Island was firmly establishing itself as a major force in the UK music scene, boasting an impressive roster that included releases from the likes of Jethro Tull, the enigmatic Nick Drake, the groundbreaking King Crimson, the folk-tinged magic of John and Beverley Martyn, the quintessential English folk-rock of Fairport Convention, and the burgeoning stardom of Cat Stevens.

Drawing upon insights from recent interviews alongside material gleaned from media interviews of the time, The Island Book of Records Volume II offers a rich and detailed account of this crucial period in the label's history. Complementing this narrative is a comprehensive discography of the label's 45 singles released during these years, making it an invaluable resource for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Furthermore, the book is lavishly illustrated with a treasure trove of ephemera that will undoubtedly fuel any collector's dreams. These visuals include a wealth of gig advertisements, many for venues that sadly no longer exist, evocative concert tickets, eye-catching flyers, fascinating international LP variants, detailed record labels, and compelling LP and 45 advertisements.

The Island Book of Records Volume II serves as a captivating snapshot of a vital era in British music and the pivotal role Island Records played in shaping its landscape. It's a meticulously researched and beautifully presented volume that will appeal to anyone interested in the history of British rock and the evolution of one of its most influential independent labels. This is more than just a discography; it's a vibrant visual and textual journey back to a time of immense musical creativity.