Rare vinyl record - Odd Songs and a Poem

Cyril Ritchard album from 1955

Illustrated by Edward Gorey

This recording occasionally comes up for sale, though the copy I am selling has a little something extra - the press release for a review copy, typed on Doubleday letterhead paper. Doubleday book publishers decided in 1955 to release a series of long-playing records under the Dolphin label. Odd Songs and a Poem, with a marvellous, classic Edward Gorey illustrated cover, was the first. Gorey was producing cover art for Doubleday books at the time and this album cover is reminiscent of that style - unmistakably Gorey.

Rather splendidly, the letter states that "the design and layout of the record jacket were done by the Doubleday Art Department"!

Odd Songs and a Poem is a collection of eight songs and one poem sung and recited by Cyril Ritchard, an Australian born actor and director. He was the voice of Elrond in the 1977 TV musical production of The Hobbit.

The album covers for this production are by now almost invariably in fairly poor condition, with split seams and some wear and tear. The copy I have for sale is no exception, though it does still look great. The vinyl record is in fair condition with scratches and scuffs. The letter from Doubleday, dated August, 1955, is what makes this item particularly rare.

Expect a starting price of around £20, or $35. Listing on eBay UK approximately August 31st, 2014.