Unobtainable CDs: Why Some Music Lovers Can’t Resist Certain Albums

Have you ever fallen in love with a CD and found yourself saying, “I’d buy it, but the price just isn’t right”?

Browsing through the vast world of music, some albums stand out as treasures that few are lucky enough to own. These are often overlooked gems that, for various reasons—rare release, high demand, or simply high prices—remain elusive to collectors. In this article, we’ll explore three such CDs and why they hold such a special place in the hearts of music enthusiasts.

Zed Yago - Pirates from Hell (2001)

Zed Yago is a 1980s power metal band that experienced a brief resurgence in the 2000s. Their first new album lacked the impact of their earlier work, but their subsequent release in 2001 marked a shift towards a more hard rock sound. This shift is evident in the album's tracks, which showcase a more dynamic and powerful musical direction, much to the delight of die-hard fans. One of the standout features is the presence of Tony Carey, a keyboardist known for his work with Deep Purple and Rainbow, enhancing the album's sound with his mesmerizing keys.

However, despite its quality, the album's limited release and high demand have made it a rare find. Zed Yago released Pirates from Hell via CD for a small run, a move that only added to its scarcity. Current sellers on platforms like Discogs list it at around 150 euros, which is a significant investment for an album that many music enthusiasts are willing to make. While the price point may seem steep, collectors and music connoisseurs often pay three figures for such an elusive gem.

Monkees - ‘Missing Links Volume Three’ (1996)

Another rare find in the world of collectors is ‘Missing Links Volume Three’ by the Monkees. This album contains unreleased songs from the band's early days, making it a highly sought-after item among fans of classic pop music. When Volumes One and Two became available, many collectors eagerly purchased them without a second thought. However, Volume Three remained elusive and, when it finally surfaced, it sold for around 160 euros.

Interestingly, a partial solution to this scarcity was provided by The Definitive Monkees 2001 compilation, which included bonus discs containing some of the songs from Volume Three. While it may not be the complete experience, collectors remain interested in owning the full set. The rarity and uniqueness of these unreleased tracks add to their value and continue to drive the market upward.

The Uglys - The Special Collection

The Uglys is a band that has captivated the hearts of many due to their unique style and the untapped potential of their music. Sadly, only 8 out of 14 songs are available for digital download, and even these are not complete. The remaining 10 songs exist only in CD format, making them scarce and highly coveted among collectors.

Discogs lists the CD at around 60 euros, but eBay offers a higher price of 110 euros, while WOB au World of Books lists it at around 143 US dollars. Due to the intricate $900 rule, collectors must wait at least a hundred days before purchasing again. This system, while frustrating, has also led to occasional surprises. Over the years, prices have fluctuated, and sometimes the album has become available as a digital download, a Christmas present, or even through a discounted deal.

Despite the challenges, the allure of owning an unobtainable CD remains strong for many collectors. The combination of rarity, potential, and historical significance makes these albums treasures that stand the test of time.

Conclusion

Unobtainable CDs are not just items for collectors; they are a testament to the enduring passion for music and the thrill of the chase. Whether it's Zed Yago's power metal or the Monkees's unreleased tracks, or The Uglys's unique collection, these albums represent a slice of music history that few get to experience. With the right patience and persistence, you might just find your own cherished CD among the treasures of these unobtainable collections.