Third Man Records Announces Italy Records Reissues
By: Caryn Robbins Nov. 10, 2017
Third Man Records is proud to reissue seven records from Italy Records, a Detroit-based independent record label founded by current Third Man Records Cass Corridor employee and longtime friend of Jack White and midwestern garage rockers at large, Mr. Dave Buick. Italy Records, which White recently credited as the model for Third Man's DIY ethos, celebrates two decades since its first release (Rocket 455's "Ain't Right Girl" 7") with these reissues, which were previously sold on limited edition pink vinyl at Third Man's Devil's Night / Italy Records 20th Anniversary Party last month. All seven releases are available now on black vinyl onlineand worldwide at your favorite local, independent record retailers.
Rocket 455 - "Ain't Right Girl" b/w "That's All You Get"Italy Records was founded to release this single by these knuckleheads before the release of their debut LP on respected German label Crypt Records. For one reason or another, this Dirtys 7" actually ended up being Italy's second release. Regardless, it's as punk as it gets and demands your full time and attention.The Fells - "Close Your Eyes" b/w "Never Be Your Man"The backstory of this recording is one totally reliant on chance, and almost didn't happen. The Fells' van broke down while on tour from Tucson and they were stranded at The Hentchmen's house, aptly called the Hentch House. With time to kill, the group toted their gear over to their buddy Jack White's house and recorded these two killer songs for later release on Italy Records. It notably features special guest Johnny Hentch of The Hentchmen on piano.As key players in a scene of like-minded minimalist garage groups, vocalist, guitarist and master of harmonica Johnny Walker and drummer/future Third Man Records co-founder Ben Swank, were playing shows in Detroit so often, it eventually just made sense for Ben to pay Jack rent and become his roommate. This single features Jack playing a metal snow shovel on the B-side, "Johnny's Death Letter".Whirlwind Heat - Glaxefusion
Grand Rapids' finest Whirlwind Heat is notable as Italy Records' first foray into anything that could possibly be considered art-rock. Listening to their jams, you'd quickly get the feeling DEVO and Brainiac were spinning heavily on their turntables.
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