Rhino Records is gearing up for Record Store Day 2026, offering a treasure trove of limited-edition releases that will delight music enthusiasts. Among the highlights is the release of two highly anticipated CDs: Todd Rundgren's 'Runt Live: The Necessary Cosmic Frenzy' and John Prine's 'BBC Sessions'. These releases are not just about the music; they're about celebrating the legacy of these iconic artists and offering fans a unique listening experience.
Todd Rundgren's Runt Live: The Necessary Cosmic Frenzy
This CD captures a live performance from 1971, showcasing Rundgren's early days as a solo artist. The concert features a mix of his own songs and covers, including a playful take on The Beatles' 'Hold Me Tight' and a soulful rendition of Smokey Robinson and The Miracles' 'Ooh Baby Baby'. What makes this release particularly intriguing is the absence of some of Rundgren's more familiar tracks, such as 'It Wouldn't Have Made Any Difference' and 'Be Nice to Me'. Instead, we get a raw and energetic performance that showcases Rundgren's early musical experimentation.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this release is the inclusion of 'Lady on the Terrace' in two different mixes. This highlights Rundgren's attention to detail and his willingness to experiment with different sounds. The CD also features a rare track, 'Broke Down and Busted', which was the first tune on Side One of Rundgren's 1970 debut, 'Runt'. This release is a must-have for fans of Rundgren's early work, offering a unique and intimate look into his creative process.
John Prine's BBC Sessions
Prine's 'BBC Sessions' is a collection of nine tracks recorded for the British Broadcasting Corporation in the 1970s. The CD offers a glimpse into Prine's early career, with songs from his self-titled debut on Atlantic Records. The highlight of this release is the sidelong set from 'In Concert', which was bookended by performances by Joni Mitchell and Johnny Mercer. This showcases Prine's ability to hold his own alongside some of the era's biggest names.
The CD also features some of Prine's most beloved songs, including 'Illegal Smile', 'Sam Stone', and 'Hello in There'. These tracks were later covered by Bette Midler on her debut album, 'The Divine Miss M'. The release is a testament to Prine's enduring legacy and his impact on the music industry. The vinyl edition, limited to 7,100 copies, is pressed on 140-gram black vinyl, ensuring a high-quality listening experience.
A Celebration of Musical Heritage
Rhino's decision to release these CDs on Record Store Day is a celebration of musical heritage and a testament to the enduring appeal of these artists. By offering fans a chance to own these rare and intimate performances, Rhino is providing a unique listening experience that can't be replicated. These releases are a must-have for any music enthusiast, offering a glimpse into the early days of two iconic artists and their impact on the music industry.
In my opinion, these releases are a testament to the power of music to transcend time and space. They offer a unique perspective on the creative process and the evolution of these artists. As an expert in the music industry, I can't help but be excited about these releases and the impact they will have on fans around the world.
