Many believe that all starts from a certain hit record by one of America’s pioneering and premiere ‘garage’ bands. Yes, it all kicked off with the raucous sound of ‘Louie Louie’ by The Kingsmen, a smash hit back in 1963. A combination of teenage angst and an insidious ‘hook line’ ensured the number would become a classic and inspiration to future generations of rockers. The Kingsmen came from Portland, Oregon and were headed by singer Jack Ely and guitarist Mike Mitchell. ‘Louie Louie’ was their debut single, written by Richard Berry and recorded by him way back in 1957. The Kingsmen’s version got to Number 2 in the US chart and proved a Top 30 hit in the UK in 1964. Although the group was the subject of internal dissent after their first big hit, they went on to enjoy more chart success with such songs as ‘Money’ and ‘The Jolly Green Giant’, both included on this 20 track compilation.
Big Apple-based Scepter Records was among the handful of independent labels to have survived the British Invasion of the 1960s. Their longevity was rooted in a solid roster with something for every taste, ranging from the intricate harmonies of R&B vocal girl groups to loose raucous frat rock with practically everything in between. Remarkably, Scepter was not helmed by a business-savvy entrepreneur or a veteran music industry renegade. In fact, a middle-aged suburban housewife and mother was actually behind the scenes calling the shots. At the insistence of her daughter Mary Jane, Florence Greenberg was introduced to four of Mary Jane's mates who had performed in their school's talent show.
This great series just keeps on getting better and better – as the hillbillies rise from hell, and take their message into the musical mainstream! Previous volumes have dealt with themes of sin and redemption in country music – and this time around, the scope seems pushed even farther – partly because the music extends into the 70s, but also because the stylistic blend is even more amazing – as bigger-name singers mix with obscure artists, and major productions mingle with rare tracks from the indie world. The album's overflowing with great work – along with the great notes of other volumes too.
Compilers Ady Croasdell & Dean Rudland’s third CD collection spotlighting the sort of R&B and club soul the original 60s mods could have been danced to – if only they’d had the chance.