The Kinks - Apeman

[Holy Zoo]

My wife (a major Kinks fan) and I both hate the stereo mix of Apeman (the vocals are buried!), but adore the actual song. I'm wondering if there's a mono version out there, and if so is the mix any better?

Thanks!

[Uncle Al]

I had the mono mix on a double A side COMMERATIVE issue 45 in the 70's. One side had a mono Lola (with "cherry cola"), the flip was mono Apeman. These were the first copies of either song I OWNED (and therefore became more familiar with).

Every stereo issue I have obtained since, of both songs, sounds anemic to me. Granted - there probably was a considerable amount of compression added to the mono mixes, but there wasn't a hell of alot of dynamics to either song anyway. Of the two - Apeman in mono was the winner. Vocals clearer and more "upfront". None of that "fade in" effect found in the intro to every stereo version I've heard. "Punched in" sound effects louder and clearer.

I no longer have a copy to do a "sound quality" comparison, but my memory will always favor the mono mix. I hear that the single masters are lost. Maybe someone should check WB - USA for the masters. After all - the "classics" series 45 I refer to must have been issued in '76 or '77, and they had a DECENT mono master then.........

[Holy Zoo]

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Uncle Al! You have restored hope... ok, now I'm on the hunt for a mono mix! I promise to let you know if I find one. :D

HZ

[Dugan]

I've seen an import CD called the "Singles Collection" which might have used the mono mixes. I haven't heard it myself but I just checked Amazon and it's only $18.88. Since your wifes a major fan it could be worth it no matter.