Theme from 'The Deer Hunter' - The Shadows

The Shadows were formed in the Fifties as a backing band for Cliff Richard, named the Drifters. A very successful career followed, with the personnel of the band frequently changing. One of the Shadows' best known tracks is the 'Theme from 'The Deer Hunter''. It was composed as 'Cavatina' by Stanley Myers. The piece had been recorded by classical guitarist John Williams, long before the film that made it famous.

Following the release of the movie 'The Deer Hunter' in 1979, John Williams' instrumental version of 'Cavatina' became a UK Top 20 hit. Two other versions also made the Top 20 the same year - a vocal version by Iris Williams and another instrumental recording by The Shadows, with an electric guitar played by Hank Marvin. It peaked at number nine in the UK Singles chart.

This 12" single is one of those rare double groove discs. Depending on which groove you choose, the A-side plays either 'Theme from 'The Deer Hunter'', or the Shadows' previous single, 'Don't cry for me Argentina'. A wonderful item, which I'd seen a dozen times before - but never this cheap.

My collection: 12" single no. 489
Found: Kringloop Holland, Den Haag, March 3, 2009
Cost: 1 euro
Tracks: 'Theme from 'The Deer Hunter'', 'Don't cry for me Argentina' / 'Bermuda Triangle'