MILFORD GRAVES “BABI” LP - IPS (ST 004)

One of the true holy grails of free jazz. This LP is utterly impossible to find, and almost equally impossible to believe that it hasn’t yet been reissued. For those who haven’t heard it, this is one of the loudest and rawest free jazz records ever. The band consists of Hugh Glover on reeds, Arthur Doyle on reeds and voice, and Milford Graves on drums, and they all sound totally crazed for the duration of the LP. A real highwater mark for the whole genre, and possibly Arthur Doyle’s finest hour.

This was once a radio station copy, but don’t let that scare you!

Record – VG+(+)

A couple very light hairline scratches and paper scuffing on both sides. Plays beautifully. Side A label has “WCUW” stamped on it (see photo), otherwise both labels clean.

Cover – VG

“WCUW” stamped on front and back (see photos), “11/20/78” written in blue pen on back (small), 2” seam split in lower-right, somewhat significant cracking in spine, very small cut corner in upper-right, some air pockets on back (see photo), discoloration in one spot on spine and all along bottom seam. Too bad this belonged to a radio station (especially considering they probably didn’t even play it!). This may sound like it’s trashed, but this is not the case. It really doesn’t look too bad, certainly for a radio copy.

Mint – Unplayed. I reserve this grade only for sealed records.

NM – Looks perfect, but has likely been played at least once. Covers don’t really exceed this grade.

EX – Very nice, save for one or two small defects such as a hairline scratch or paper scuff that doesn’t affect play. Record may have a pressing flaw such as a bubble or two that can be heard if listened to closely. Cover may show the very beginnings of ring-wear, have light staining or a very small corner bump.

VG+ - Still nice, but has definitely been played a bit by someone who takes good care of things. Record may have a few light scratches that are audible but do not detract much from the music, or a very slight warp that does not affect play.  Cover may be ring-worn a bit, have a small corner bump or two, a small seam-split or a light crease.

VG – Record has some very noticeable defects, such as a few scratches that are easily heard but do not cause skips. Record plays through fine and the music is still enjoyable, but there may be background noise throughout. Cover might have moderate ring wear, creasing or significant seam-splitting (3+”). In other words a decent playing and perfectly collectible copy until a nicer one comes along.

(+) and (-) next to grade indicate that the record or cover is either a hair above [(+)] or below [(-)] that grade.

I will not likely list anything deserving of a grade below VG.

NO PERSONAL CHECKS. Paypal, money order or well-concealed cash only.

Priority shipping in US is $6, or $3 for Media Rate. 

Airmail to Canada: $6.

Airmail to Japan, Europe, Australia and South America: $12. 

Contact me for rates to any other destination not listed above.

Insurance is optional, however it is highly recommended. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR UNINSURED ITEMS DAMAGED/LOST IN TRANSIT.

Shipping charges include the price of a professional record mailer and flat cushion by Bags Unlimited.

LP’s are shipped with the record outside the sleeve to prevent ring-wear and seam-splitting.