Vinyl plays nicely (play-graded). Cover looks great; a few creases near edges; light-scuffing, slight discoloration with darker discoloration spots, and surface impressions (front/back). Inner-sleeve is original (generic white); bottom seam partially split. Spine has no text and shows mild-wear; developing split near center. Minor shelf-wear along top/bottom-edge; some wear to corners. Opening is crisp with signs of light use. (Not a cut-out.)
The Thom Bell Sessions is an EP recorded by Elton John in 1977, but was not released until 1979. Up until that time, he had worked almost exclusively with lyricist Bernie Taupin and record producer Gus Dudgeon. Also, Elton's band was not used at these sessions. This project brought John together with legendary R&B songwriter and producer Thom Bell. Although Elton was eager to work with one of the creators of the Philadelphia soul sound, recording sessions did not go smoothly and they ended before an entire album could be finished. Bell produced all the tracks and co-wrote one of the songs with his nephew, LeRoy Bell (of recent X-Factor USA fame), and Casey James. Spinners sang backing vocals on the project. During these sessions, Thom Bell also advised Elton John on vocal skills, including encouraging him to sing in a lower register. Although at least six songs were recorded during the 1977 sessions only 3 completed tracks were made available on a 12 inch EP. The project ended up generating the hit single: Mama Can't Buy You Love (#9 Hot 100, #1 AC).