The music world is buzzing with excitement as “The Impossibles,” a lesser-known but beloved soul group, see their iconic album Delphis UMC brought back to life through a highly anticipated reissue. For decades, this rare gem has been a dream find for many crate-diggers and soul enthusiasts, and now it’s finally accessible to both seasoned collectors and new fans alike.
Whether you’ve been a lifelong admirer of The Impossibles or have only recently heard of their elusive Delphis UMC, this blog will take you through the album’s history, its remarkable reissue process, and tips for collectors seeking authentic copies.
The Legacy of “The Impossibles” and Delphis UMC
Back in the 1970s, The Impossibles (no relation to the later ska band of the same name) emerged as a soulful powerhouse with their magnetic rhythms, poignant lyrics, and distinct vocal harmony. Their album, Delphis UMC, was released under a small independent label, Delphis Records, and quickly became a hidden treasure within soul music circles.
Despite its brilliance, Delphis UMC was overshadowed by bigger-budget albums at the time and received little commercial attention. Over the years, it has gained cult status, largely for its compelling storytelling and rich production. The scarcity of the original vinyl—many were produced in extremely limited runs—further elevated its status among music collectors. Owning a copy of the original album became a badge of honor in the music-collecting community.
Why the Reissue of Delphis UMC Matters
Fast forward to today, when reissues have become a way of breathing new life into overlooked or underappreciated albums. For The Impossibles, the rediscovery and reissue of Delphis UMC allows their music to reach a new generation of listeners while offering longtime fans an opportunity to hear the record in pristine quality.
It’s not only about accessibility—it’s about celebrating The Impossibles’ artistry and preserving a slice of music history that could otherwise be lost to time. Reissues ensure that timeless records, even those released by small, independent labels, are never forgotten.
The Reissue Process and Challenges
Reissuing an album as rare and significant as Delphis UMC is no small feat. The first step in the process involved tracking down the original master tapes—a task that required significant detective work. Many recordings from small labels of the 1970s weren’t properly archived, often leading to poorly managed or lost tapes over the years.
Fortunately, the individuals behind the reissue were meticulous. They uncovered the master tapes in surprisingly good condition after collaborating closely with those connected to Delphis Records and The Impossibles.
Beyond recovering the tapes, the reissue team worked to remaster the material. This required a delicate balance of maintaining the album’s original soulful essence while enhancing the sound for modern playback equipment. A team of sound engineers, including prominent mastering expert Andy Southfield, was brought on board to ensure that the final product upheld the highest audio fidelity.
What’s New in the Reissue?
For anyone who has heard (or read about) the original release of Delphis UMC, you’ll want to know what sets this reissue apart. Here’s the breakdown:
Higher Sound Quality
The original release was constrained by the limitations of vinyl and budget production methods. The reissue amplified the overall clarity and richness of the sound without stripping away the authenticity of the 1970s vibe.
Additional Tracks
The reissue also includes bonus material—previously unreleased tracks from The Impossibles’ archives. These songs give listeners a deeper glimpse into the band’s creative process and evolution.
Limited-Edition Packaging
The reissue features meticulously recreated album artwork alongside newly written liner notes detailing the significance of the album and stories about the band. Many collectors will appreciate the hand-numbered copies of this limited-edition release.
The Music Collector Community’s Response
Music collectors worldwide have embraced the Delphis UMC reissue with open arms. It serves as both a celebration of soul music and a testament to the value of reviving lost albums.
For seasoned collectors, the reissue is a chance to compare the new version to its scarce original counterpart. For newer collectors, it’s an affordable gateway into owning a piece of soul music history. On social media platforms and collector forums, discussions about the quality of the remaster and the excitement of owning the reissue have created a sense of community around this release.
Spotting Authentic Reissues
For collectors, distinguishing genuine reissues from counterfeits is of utmost importance. Here are some tips to ensure you’re investing in the real deal when it comes to The Impossibles’ Delphis UMC:
- Pay attention to the label – The official reissue has been released by a well-known reissue company with authorization from the original rights holder.
- Check serial numbers – Limited-edition reissues are often numbered. Make sure your copy includes this unique identifier on the packaging.
- Examine the artwork – Authentic reissues are precise in recreating original album details but may have distinguishing marks like updated liner notes or additional branding.
- Purchase from reputable sellers – When buying online, make sure you only purchase from verified sellers or major music retailers.
Why Reissues Are More Than Just Nostalgia
Albums like The Impossibles’ Delphis UMC exist as cultural artifacts, reflecting the trends, struggles, and creativity of their time. Reissues are not merely nostalgic products—they’re crucial tools for keeping music history alive and relevant.
By making these timeless pieces accessible once more, reissues ensure that the music continues to inspire both seasoned fans and a new generation of listeners. For collectors, they are an opportunity to balance admiration for the past with the excitement of modern rediscovery.
Your Next Step in Music Collecting
If you’re a fan of rare soul records, the reissue of The Impossibles’ Delphis UMC deserves a prominent spot in your collection. Experience the pristine remaster, explore the bonus tracks and liner notes, and immerse yourself in the timeless rhythms that made The Impossibles legendary.
Curious about where to pick up your copy? Explore authorized retailers or limited online sales to secure this masterpiece before it sells out.
Reissues like this remind us all of why we fell in love with collecting music in the first place. Make sure you don’t miss your chance to own this incredible reissue—because some albums are worth rediscovering.
