Released by Voiceprint in May 1999 this is a real gem providing an insight into the making of One World featuring alternate takes, instrumentals and session music. At the time of release advertising literature stated there was a limited edition of 1,000 copies with a bonus disc. I have yet to see a copy without the bonus disc!

In the summer of 1977, Chris Blackwell asked producer Phil Brown to work with John on his new album One World. The Island Mobile was set up on Saturday the 16 July 1977 and the album was recorded for three weeks in the courtyard of a house in Theale, Berkshire.

The house was in the middle of a lake and equipment was set up on each side of the lake so that it picked up the sound of water lapping, and a distant ‘strangled’ sound on the guitar which was perfect for lead solos. Most recording was carried out between 3am and 6am and these quiet hours before dawn created the most magical atmosphere for recording, resulting in two of John’s most popular songs One World and Small Hours.

1. Dancing
2. Dealer
3. Certain Surprise
4. Smiling Stranger
5. One World
6. Couldn’t Love You More
7. Small Hours
8. Big Muff
9. Black Man At Your Shoulder
10. Dancing (drum machine)
11. The Dealer (kit)
12. The Dealer (drum machine)
13. Certain Surprise
14. Smiling Stranger (instrumental)
15. Big Muff (drum machine)

Catalogue Number: OW108CD One World

Special Thanks to Phil Brown for his help in retrieving these recordings
Sleeve Notes – Phill Brown and Danny Thompson