Lyric Records
1917-1921

The Lyraphone Company of America (Newark, NJ) formed and launched their "Lyric Record" in 1917 to take advantage of the expired patent on vertical recording and to position itself for the inevitable opening of the lateral cut to come. In the meantime, vertical's 150 lines-per-inch allowed for up to five minutes of recording time for a ten-inch side and seven for twelve-inchers. The label art was quite impressive when even compared to industry giants. Other technical aspects left much to be desired though. Originally touted as playable on a Diamond Disc Phonograph, the shellac was far too soft for acceptable wear. Steel needles weren't much kinder. "Never Scratches" as noted on later labels wasn't truth in advertising. A&R didn't hardly offer anything new or revolutionary beyond the common traveling performers and songs. Laterally-recorded records were introduced in 1919 but the company's fortunes didn't improve. The company went into receivership and ended production in 1921, disappearing the following year.

Encoded Speed: 192 Kbps

Vertical Recordings


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Havanola Bob
Lyric Dance Orchestra Lyric Dance Orchestra
Lyric 4102 Lyric 4102
Matrix# 6039 Matrix# 6062-1-
1917 1917
New York, New York New York, New York


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Some Jazz Blues Valse Boston
Lyric Dance Band Lyric Dance Orchestra
Lyric 4140-A Lyric 4140-B
Matrix# 9106A (1127-T) Matrix# J-07156
ca. March 1918 ca. March 1918
New York, New York New York, New York

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