Around ten years ago I recall Richard telling me about a different version of Big Brother. It's very possible it was the mono version he was talking about but I'm not absolutely certain.
I believe Richard said this alternate version of BB was on one of the compilation CD's Motown released over the years but he's the expert on all things Rare Earth.
At this very moment I'm listening to greatest hits and rare classics. Hadn't heard it in quite some time and it still sounds just as good as it did the first day I bought it.
It's always a pleasure to fill your head with dirt.
There are two different studio versions/edits...both of these are the same basic performance. The biggest difference is how each of these versions start
1. The 45 version, which is in mono, which runs 3:06. The 45 version starts with a snare and crash cymbal. I must admit that it's very unusual for a single to be in mono by 1971. Then again, the 45 mix of Celebrate is in mono too.
2. The stereo version which runs 4:48 and has been on all compilations. This version starts with hi-hat playing.
Everybody who has heard the needledrop project has both versions...they're on the One World disc
There are two different studio versions/edits...both of these are the same basic performance. The biggest difference is how each of these versions start
1. The 45 version, which is in mono, which runs 3:06. The 45 version starts with a snare and crash cymbal. I must admit that it's very unusual for a single to be in mono by 1971. Then again, the 45 mix of Celebrate is in mono too.
2. The stereo version which runs 4:48 and has been on all compilations. This version starts with hi-hat playing.
Everybody who has heard the needledrop project has both versions...they're on the One World disc
I thought the original single version of "Big Brother" was on at least one compilation - The Complete Motown Singles Volume 11B. It's on Spotify right now to check it out.
There are two different studio versions/edits...both of these are the same basic performance. The biggest difference is how each of these versions start
1. The 45 version, which is in mono, which runs 3:06. The 45 version starts with a snare and crash cymbal. I must admit that it's very unusual for a single to be in mono by 1971. Then again, the 45 mix of Celebrate is in mono too.
2. The stereo version which runs 4:48 and has been on all compilations. This version starts with hi-hat playing.
Everybody who has heard the needledrop project has both versions...they're on the One World disc
I thought the original single version of "Big Brother" was on at least one compilation - The Complete Motown Singles Volume 11B. It's on Spotify right now to check it out.
MartyB
Listening to the various versions on Spotify, gotta say the 3:05 mono version does sound like quite a bit more reverb. I also think the Ray's guitar feedback at the beginning sounds more dramatic leading right into the main riff. Fades too quick though.
I thinking I am gonna hafta get a copy of this.
There are about 5 versions of the 4:45 single version from various comps and while the mix sounds the same on them all the mastering on these all are very different. With L and R channels switched on a few, and overall levels varying quite a bit.
