Picture Me Gone: Decca Sessions 1966-1974 - Definitive Two CD

In this review of Picture Me Gone: Decca Sessions 1966-1974 the bottom line is clear: this two CD set is essential for fans of British pop and collectors of 1960s-70s singles. Compiling later Decca recordings by the Sheffield singer, it brings together two complete albums plus rare non-album 45s and the smash single 'Mama', making it the most convenient way to hear this period of his career in one place. The release also includes detailed sleeve-notes with fresh quotes, which add context to the music and make the set useful for both listening and reference.

Key Features

• Comprehensive two CD collection: Combines recordings from 1966 to 1974 so listeners get a continuous view of the artist's later Decca work without hunting down scattered releases.
• Includes two full albums: Presents One Dozen Berries and Dave Berry '68 in full, preserving original album sequencing for historical listening.
• Rare non-album 45s: Adds a raft of hard-to-find singles including the singer's final Decca single from 1974, valuable for collectors and completists.
• Features the hit single 'Mama': Includes the smash hit that represents the commercial highlight of this era and anchors the collection for casual listeners.
• Detailed sleeve-notes: New quotes from the artist and contextual notes provide background and enhance appreciation of the recordings.

Who It's For

The set is ideal for long-time followers of the Sheffield singer, Northern Soul enthusiasts, and collectors of British pop who want a focused collection of his Decca-era work. The assembled albums and rare 45s make it especially useful for those who value completeness and historical liner-note detail.

It is less well suited to listeners seeking a career-spanning greatest hits compilation or those who prefer remastered audiophile releases with technical notes; this package is a careful archival compilation rather than a modern high-resolution remaster or a full career anthology.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive selection brings albums and rare singles together, saving time and effort for collectors.
• Inclusion of the hit 'Mama' makes the set accessible to casual fans while still rewarding completists.
• New sleeve-notes with quotes add valuable context and personal perspective from the artist.

Cons

• Not presented as an audiophile remaster, so listeners seeking high-end sound may find it adequate rather than exceptional.

Specifications

Format	Two CD set
Record label	Rpm Records UK
Recording years	1966-1974
Included albums	One Dozen Berries; Dave Berry '68
Notable track	"Mama"
Extras	Rare non-album 45s and detailed sleeve-notes

Our Verdict

This two CD compilation is a well-curated and useful archival release for fans and collectors who want the singer's later Decca material in one place. It pairs complete albums with rare singles and informative sleeve-notes, offering strong historical value even if it is not aimed at audiophile reissues; recommended for those who value completeness and context.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this set include the full albums?
Yes. Both One Dozen Berries and Dave Berry '68 are presented in full across the two CDs.

Are there rare singles included?
Yes. The collection includes a number of non-album 45s, including the artist's final Decca single from 1974.

Who produced the sleeve-notes?
The release features detailed sleeve-notes with new quotes from the artist himself, supplied by the label.