Features

Monty Python - And now for something completely different.

Bill Cummings 22/08/2006

The 4th September sees the release of new versions of eight Monty Python albums originally recorded for the Charisma label. The kings of surrealist humour on TV in the 1970s the collective went on to make various feature films and release recordings that are now being re-mastered and buffed up for your enjoyment.

Over the past two years original Python producer Andre Jaquemin has digitally remastered the recordings and scoured the archives for previously released and unheard material which are added to these releases as bonus tracks, along with interviews with Michael Palin, Terry Jones and Graham Chapman*.

Here's the lowdown on the albums: "All the artwork has been overseen by Terry Gilliam, who opened his private archive to allow access to previously unseen images, many of which are included here in the CD booklets. Not only that, but each CD contains special free gifts donated by each of the Python team - a bit like a Happy Meal, but even more nasty. Eric Idle kindly donated some ear wax; Michael Palin generously gave some ticket stubs from 'My Life As A Woman: The John Prescott Story'; Terry Jones provided ladies' underwear from his own private collection; Terry Gilliam willingly gave us the clap; and Lord Cleese smiled graciously and proffered some excellent advice on how to live a long, prosperous, happy and healthy life (sadly it was all in Mandarin Chinese and we couldn't be bothered to translate it, but it has been faithfully re-printed in full)."

Remastered at Abbey Road and Redwood Studios, the albums will coincide with the UK theatre debut of Eric Idles 'Spamalot' at the Palace Theatre, London, on the 2nd October 2006. 'Spamalot' has been a major hit on Broadway being the only musical to open there and immediately sell-out for eighteen months.

*Mr Chapman's interview was recorded before his death in 1989. Probably.

"Makes Ben Hur look like an epic." Monty Python and The Holy Grail

As a special Python treat, we have some lovely audio streams for your listening pleasure. All these streams are bonus tracks from the albums and as such have never been released before.


Matching Tie & Handkerchief-'Psychopath'

The Meaning Of Life-'Radio Ad- Philosophers' Corner'


Contractual Obligation-Obligation Ad

Another Monty Python CD-'Courtroom Sketch'

Holy Grail-Documentary

Life Of Brian-Radio Ad- Twice As Good


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