The New York Twelve

The first double-CD set in an eventual four-volume series featuring all regular weekly issues of these cardboard records that were the best-selling records during the Depression, along with several advertising and uncommonly scarce promotional records from the Durium Company. The biggest names in 1930s music are here: Ben Pollack, Phil Spitalney, Vincent Lopez, and Duke Ellington, playing as "The Harlem Hot Chocolates." Top vocalists include Smith Ballew, Irving Kaufman, and Scrappy Lambert. More than two hours of music and a very informative 24-page booklet with notes by Doug Benson and Hit of the Week expert Hans Koert. Read more
List price: $31.99

The Complete Hit of the Week Recordings, Volume 2 includes 48 tracks, spanning 1930 through 1931, by standout bands led by Vincent Lopez, Ted Fiorito, Harry Reser, Sam Lanin, and Don Voorhees. Plenty of rare gems are here too, including all five A-series Durium Juniors (featuring Eva Taylor, Frank Luther, and Carson Robison), an experimental 5-minute Hit of the Week, and a live Durium recording of pianist Leola Felton playing "The St. Louis Blues."  Read more
List price: $31.99