J.B. and the Playboys Remastered Album Receives Digital Release

December 11, 2020 BY Nettwerk

 

In 1965, J.B. and the Playboys released their self-titled album, the first and only studio album the band ever recorded. On February 19, the remastered album will be digitally available for the first time via Justin Time and Nettwerk Records.

In partnership with Nettwerk, Montreal-based label Justin Time is distributing the eponymously titled album for music lovers of the era, collectors, and newcomers alike. “We are elated to be able to bring these songs to light again,” says Jim West, Justin Time President. “Not only for older fans but for anyone interested in the original sounds coming out of Montreal during the 60’s British Invasion.”

Formed in 1964, J.B. and the Playboys was comprised of Bill Hill on lead guitar, Allan Nicholls on vocals, Andy Kaye on guitar, Lorne Douglas West on drums, and Louis Atkins on bass. The group began playing shows at clubs throughout the summer in the Laurentians and the Eastern Townships of Canada. They perfected their concert-style performances at high schools, community centers, and YMCA dances in and around Montreal and rural Quebec. Concert promoters noticed the dynamic band and eventually invited them to open for The Beach Boys and The Rolling Stones. The Playboys recorded and released one 45 rpm single record every week for three weeks, and their songs turned into hits on radio stations across Quebec and beyond. On the strength of their chart-topping hit singles, the group performed on national television shows, headlined sold-out concerts to French and English audiences and amassed great reviews in both national and international press. The touring continued throughout Canada and the USA, expanding their audience base, which demanded more.

The band’s unique and original sound was captured in their first and only self-titled studio album at the legendary Mutual Street recording studio in Toronto. Fifty-five years later, Justin Time Records decided to revisit this wonderful time in Canada’s musical history. The newly remastered and digitally released music is a tribute to, and a celebration of, the original J.B. and the Playboys’ sound and energy.

Ahead of the album, there will be three two-song digital single releases – the previously released “Tears of Woe” / “Chances,” today’s release of “Poor Anne” / “My Love” and the forthcoming “Love, Happiness & Sweet You” / “Summer Love” double single.

J.B. and the Playboys were my life for most of the ’60s. In the late ’60’s we all moved on to other bands in other genres of music. I will always cherish the original Playboys’ memory with their unique sound and energetic performances as the best part of my music career. Here we are today, 50 plus years later, with the opportunity to revisit the material, remaster and release it digitally, and to get the band back together. Thanks to Jim and Justin Time Records, we have a music life again,” says Nicholls.

“J.B. and the Playboys were a magical band at a magical time in the music business. Since the group’s disbanding, I’ve had a full and rich career in music, but the Playboys, aside from being the launching pad, always held a special place in my heart. I am extremely proud of the records we made and am thrilled that Justin Time Records have remastered these classics and made them available to a whole new generation. I hope people enjoy listening to them as much as we enjoyed making them,” adds Hill.

To learn more about Justin Time, its 37 years of great recordings, and to browse its diverse catalog of jazz, blues, and gospel recordings, visit www.justin-time.com.