Needlepoint - The Record Collector Podcast

Paul Lester & Daryl Easlea
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  • MUSIC COMMENTARY

A monthly take on record collecting, featuring Record Collector Editor Paul Lester and Rare Record Price Guide Editor Daryl Easlea. 

Episodes

  1. 4D AGO

    EP12: Bowie, Prince and the Mod Revival - Plus is Modern Music Swerving Politics?

    Send us a text The Bowie Prince dichotomy - will you love or hate the latest edition of Record Collector Magazine? In this episode of the Needlepoint podcast, hosts Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea discuss their controversial cover graced by two of music's greats.  The evolution of mod culture is under the spotlight and the dynamic duo explore the authenticity of the mod revival; can a New Mod be a True Mod?   The enigmatic hosts discuss political resonance in modern music, and the evolution of metal, reflecting on the contrasting styles of punk and metal. As well as the impact of reggae on punk and new wave music, they look at the rediscovery of classic albums, and the legacy of bands like Squeeze.  As ever, the joy of music underpins this episode of Needlepoint and delves into both new music, and timeless classics.  #NeedlepointPodcast #MusicPodcast #RecordCollector #DavidBowie #Prince  #ModCulture #PunkRock #MetalMusic #ReggaeInfluence #MusicHistory  #AlbumCulture #ClassicAlbums Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    52 min

  2. 12/09/2025

    EP11: It's the Bob Geldof Edition - plus Nick Drake, Gary Numan and the Beatles

    Send us a text Bob Geldof is this month's guest editor of Record Collector Magazine. In this episode of the Needlepoint podcast, hosts Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea spill the beans on the Christmas edition of the magazine with some cheeky revelations. They explore the significance of 1981 in music history, discuss seismic singles from the 70s, and reflect on the impact of record collecting. The conversation also touches on the legacy of St. Etienne, the reissues of Nick Drake, and the evolution of Gary Numan as an artist. The music moguls discuss the importance of local record shops - even popping to one with Bob Geldof himself. Plus there's chat about the ongoing influence of the Beatles in shaping music culture. Don't miss this witty, musical banter.  #musicpodcast #RecordCollector  #BobGeldof #vinyl #1981 #Christmasedition #musichistory #NickDrake #GaryNuman #punkrock #punk #needlepoint Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    57 min

  3. 11/11/2025

    EP10: It's 1980 - My Bloody Valentine, Steve Howe and Elton John Rock the World

    Send us a text In this episode of Needlepoint, Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea delve into the rich tapestry of rock music, focusing on the year 1980 and its significant albums.  The electric guitar is under the spotlight, as Paul and Daryl discuss the influence of iconic artists like My Bloody Valentine and Steve Howe, the resurgence of 80s bands, and the role of nostalgia in music.  The conversation also touches on live performances, the upcoming Christmas issue of Record Collector, and reflections on the evolution of musical tastes. There's a nod to Todd Rundgren too, and Iron Maiden. #rockmusic #1980 #iconicalbums #MyBloodyValentine #Steve Howe #nostalgia #eightiesrock #liveperformances #musichistory #Record Collector #musicpodcast Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    55 min

  4. 10/17/2025

    EP09: Jarvis Cocker's Record Collection Revealed

    Send us a text Jarvis Cocker's record collection and its significance is the focus of this episode of Needlepoint, as hosts Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea delve into the rich tapestry of rock music once again. They explore the evolution of Pulp, the influence of artists like Scott Walker, and the cultural impact of soundtracks. The conversation also touches on the legacy of Todd Rundgren, Terry Reid, and the importance of reader engagement in music journalism. The 1980s, the Beatles' influence on modern music, the impact of Live Aid on music culture and George Benson are all under the spotlight of these music moguls. #NeedlepointPodcast #JarvisCocker #Pulp #Britpop #ScottWalker #ToddRundgren #80sMusic #ClassicRock #Soundtracks #MusicPodcast #RockHistory #MusicLovers Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    50 min

  5. 09/15/2025

    EP08: The 200 Most Collectable Records of All Time

    Send us a text Michael Jackson, Nick Drake, The Sex Pistols and Charli XCX all get a mention in this episode of the Needlepoint podcast - along with some lesser known names who've taken the hosts by fancy.  Music aficionados Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea delve into the world of collectible records, exploring the nuances of rarity, value, and the music industry. They discuss the importance of diverse voices in the record-collecting community, share insights from interviews with music legends, and reflect on personal music discoveries. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI in music publishing and the evolving trends in vinyl collecting, all while maintaining a light-hearted and engaging tone. Find out which music legends will be gracing the pages of the latest edition of Record Collector Magazine.  Coming up:  How rarity, value, and collectibility are distinct yet interconnected in the music world.Hear how diverse perspectives from various collectors enhance the understanding of record values.Interviews with music legends provide valuable insights into the industry.Find out how the impact of influential figures in the music industry shape artists' careers. Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    52 min

  6. 08/19/2025

    EP07: Exploring David Gilmour's Musical Journey

    Send us a text David Gilmour is the face of this episode of Record Collector Magazine and this episode of Needlepoint - bringing you music analysis across the decades. In their inimitable witty manner, music aficionados Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea delve into the latest issue featuring an exclusive interview with the British guitarist and singer/songwriter. They explore the legacy of Pink Floyd, the musical landscape of 1979, and the rise of synth pop. The conversation also touches on underrated artists like Brian Adams and the influence of Bill Haley. The hosts discuss the cult following of The Cardiac and reflect on U2's early days. They conclude with a preview of upcoming features in Record Collector, including a focus on Dexys Midnight Runners and Kevin Rowland's new book. Bryan Adams, Bill Haley and U2 all warrant a mention. #music #DavidGilmour #PinkFloyd #1979 #synth pop  #BryanAdams #BillHaley #U2 #Record Collector #DexysMidnightRunners Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    54 min

  7. 07/19/2025

    EP06: The Legacy of Rock Icons - Reflections on The Impact of Brian Wilson and Sly Stone

    Send us a text In this episode of the Needlepoint podcast, hosts Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea delve into the rich tapestry of rock music, reflecting on the recent deaths of iconic artists Brian Wilson and Sly Stone. They discuss the impact of these losses on the music community and the significance of their legacies. The conversation shifts to the longevity of musical greatness, exploring which artists have sustained excellence over the years. The hosts also touch on the nature of genius in music, the evolving value of records, and the importance of lesser-known bands like Hatfield and the North and The Go-Betweens. They share personal experiences from recent musical events, emphasising the joy of discovering and celebrating music. In a nutshell: Brian Wilson's death marks a significant moment in rock history.The impact of iconic artists can reshape magazine covers and content.The conversation about rock star deaths often leads to reflections on legacy.Musical genius can be a finite resource, but its remnants linger.Record collecting values can shift dramatically after an artist's passing.The Go-Betweens' music remains relevant and impactful today.The importance of lesser-known bands in the music narrative is often overlooked.The market for unofficial recordings continues to thrive.Musical experiences can create lasting memories and connections.The evolution of music genres reflects broader cultural shifts.Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    51 min

  8. 06/18/2025

    EP05 Tribute to Music Legends: Sly Stone and Brian Wilson, Plus the Rise of Punk

    Send us a text In this episode of Needlepoint, hosts Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea explore the rich tapestry of rock music through the lens of the latest issue of Record Collector.  They pay tribute to the recent passing of music legends Sly Stone and Brian Wilson, discussing their profound impact on their respective genres.  The conversation delves into the artistic journeys of both musicians, their influence on the music industry, and the evolution of the Beach Boys' sound and their sometimes overlooked albums. The hosts also discuss the Ramones' role in the punk rock movement, the collectability of vinyl records, and the significance of 1975 in music history.  Listen to the musings of these musical aficionados. #musicpodcast  #BeachBoys #SlyStone #Ramones #punk #vinyl #musichistory  #folkrock  Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    49 min

  9. 06/18/2025

    EP04 Exploring Goth's Enduring Allure, Bauhaus and the 3 Petes...

    Send us a text Goth refuses to die – and thank goodness for that. In this enlightening episode of Needlepoint, Paul Lester and Daryl Easley explore the enduring appeal of goth music and culture through Record Collector's latest issue featuring Bauhaus frontman Peter Murphy. What makes goth so persistently captivating? We trace its evolution from its post-punk origins through to The Cure's chart-topping 2024 album, examining how it became the genre that simply wouldn't fade away. Peter Murphy emerges as the fascinating centerpiece – the "crown prince of camp magniloquence" who took David Bowie's theatrical baton and ran with it in his own distinctive direction. We dive into the rich cultural tapestry that informed goth's development, from late-night BBC horror double bills to vampire mythology. The genre's powerful visual iconography and cross-gender appeal helped create not just a musical movement but a complete aesthetic universe that continues to attract younger generations decades after its inception. As Daryl aptly notes, "Why wouldn't you want to be called goth? Goth is a badge of honour." Beyond our main feature, we explore this month's "triple Pete spectacular" with additional features on Peter Doherty and Peter Tosh, plus our guide to New York's essential 45s from across the five boroughs. The episode wraps with passionate discussions about recent concert experiences and teases next month's 50th anniversary Ramones special. Whether you're a weekend Bauhaus fan or a dedicated follower of all things dark and dramatic, join us for this fascinating exploration of a genre that transformed melancholia into something epic, theatrical, and endlessly appealing. Like the vampires that inspired it, goth music has achieved its own form of immortality. Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    46 min

  10. 06/13/2025

    EP01 From Johnny Rotten to 10cc: The Secret Lives of Records

    Send us a text Step into the passionate world of vinyl collectors and music aficionados with Needlepoint, the fresh voice in music podcasting from Record Collector magazine. Magazine editor Paul Lester and Rare Record Price Guide editor Daryl Easlea invite you to experience rock's rich tapestry through their expert lens, offering insights that only decades of immersion in music culture could provide. The debut episode centres on Johnny Rotten's surprising record collection, revealing how the punk icon's musical tastes extended far beyond the confines of his public persona. Through an exclusive interview, we discover Lydon finding solace in his vinyl collection following the loss of his beloved wife Nora, presenting a touching human side rarely seen in traditional media coverage. This 14-page feature exemplifies Record Collector's commitment to exploring artists beyond surface-level narratives. The music of 10cc,  Missy Elliott, and The Jam are all under the scrutiny of Lester and Easlea. For collectors, the podcast delivers invaluable market insights as Easlea shares expert knowledge on valuation fluctuations, revealing how 90s vinyl has surged in value. Anecdotes about attending auctions, discovering records valued at thousands, and the preservation of musical memorabilia (including signed ABBA soap!) provide both practical collecting wisdom and charming glimpses into music's material culture. Join us monthly for this needle-sharp exploration of music history, collecting culture, and the stories behind your favourite albums. Whether you're a serious collector or simply curious about the tales your records could tell, Needlepoint connects the grooves that bring music's hidden histories to life. Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    40 min

  11. 06/06/2025

    Ep02 When Bob Dylan Shook the World: The Pivotal Year of 1965

    Send us a text Step into the fascinating world of musical transformation with Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea as they unpack Bob Dylan's revolutionary year of 1965 – the perfect companion to the recent Hollywood biopic capturing this pivotal moment in music history. This episode of Needlepoint takes you deep into Dylan's seismic shift from folk hero to rock revolutionary, examining not just the explosion of 1965 but the tremors that preceded it. Paul and Daryl offer insights that both casual fans and serious collectors will treasure. But the musical journey doesn't stop there. The hosts explore Dionne Warwick's remarkable career trajectory, describing her as an "iceberg artist" whose most celebrated Bacharach-David collaborations represent only the tip of her artistic achievement. Their passionate advocacy for her 1970s work with producer Tom Bell reveals hidden gems that deserve rediscovery. Paul and Daryl make a compelling case against the dismissal of modern music, sharing their recent discoveries and arguing that "the best record ever made has yet to be made." Whether you're building a vinyl collection, seeking overlooked treasures from familiar artists, or simply want to experience music history through the eyes of true enthusiasts, this episode delivers knowledge, passion, and a refreshing perspective that connects music's rich past with its vibrant present. Subscribe to Needlepoint for more deep dives into the stories behind the records that shaped our world – and the new releases continuing that tradition today. Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    51 min

  12. 06/06/2025

    Ep03 Vinyl Visionaries: Inside Pub Rock's Untold Legacy

    Send us a text When was the last time you saw Dr. Feelgood on the cover of a mainstream rock magazine? The answer might be never - until now. In this episode of Needlepoint, Paul Lester and Daryl Easlea unpack Record Collector's groundbreaking cover story on the pub rock movement, exploring why this influential genre has been surprisingly overlooked in rock's documented history. The duo delves deep into what exactly constituted "pub rock" in the early-to-mid 1970s  in London's pubs. We discover how Dr. Feelgood and their contemporaries created something genuinely revolutionary. More fascinating still is tracing pub rock's DNA through generations of music that followed - from The Clash to Gang of Four, and even across the Atlantic to Talking Heads. The conversation takes fascinating detours into the musical transformations of the 1970s, examining how artists like Lou Reed, Todd Rundgren, and Stevie Wonder made extraordinary evolutionary leaps in their sound within remarkably short timeframes. We're treated to Daryl's adventures at the world's largest record fair in Den Bosch, where paper sleeves sell for thousands while personal holy grails remain elusive. Paul shares his recent experiences seeing both John Lodge of the Moody Blues and experimental post-punk outfit Geordie Greep, highlighting the wonderful diversity of today's music landscape. Whether you're seeking insights on the current issue of Record Collector (featuring not just the Dr. Feelgood cover story but also interviews with Smokey Robinson and features on musical hotspots), or simply want to spend time with two passionate music experts celebrating rock's rich tapestry, this episode delivers a masterclass in music appreciation. Subscribe now and join the conversation about the sounds, scenes and stories that shaped our musical world. Find out more: Watch the podcast on YouTube Read the magazine: www.recordcollectormag.com Check out the rare record database: www.rarerecordpriceguide.com #musicexperts #musicanalysis #music #rockstars #recordcollecting #Needlepointpodcast #musicalgenius #musichistory #soulmusic #punk #mowtown #records #musiccharts #musictrends

    51 min
  • 12 Episodes

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A monthly take on record collecting, featuring Record Collector Editor Paul Lester and Rare Record Price Guide Editor Daryl Easlea. 

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