By Ken Paulson
Mark Lindsay: The Complete Columbia Singles is a another fine reissue from Real Gone Music.
“Reissue” may be a misnomer here. Although most of the material has been released before, collcting these largely overlooked singles in one place would have been a daunting challenge for any record collector. This is a singular collection in more wys than one.
Lindsey is an underrated rock ‘n roll frontman, and Paul Revere and the Raiders really don’t get their due as one of the most dynamic bands of the ‘60s.
Interestingly, on The Complete Columbia Singles, we hear how effectively Lindsay distanced himself from the rock ‘n’ roll band that made him famous. His solo work focused on ballads and engaging pop, similar in many ways to B.J. Thomas’ best work.
The big hits are here, including “Arizona,” “Silverbird” and the somewhat dated “Miss America.”
The most interesting covers include Neil Diamond’s “The Grass Won’t Pay No Mind” and Bacharach and David’s “Something Good.” Lindsay clearly enjoyed the challenge of more complex arrangements.
The singles collected here hold up well, capturing early ‘70s pop in all its melodic glory
Tag: Neil Diamond
Re-issues: “The Red Bird Girls” in stereo
By Ken Paulson
–The Red Bird Girls Very First Time in True Stereo is a stunning collection of pop songs recorded almost half a century ago on the Red Bird label founded by legendary rock ‘n’ roll songwriters Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.
The title says it all: Girl groups and singers in impeccable stereo, taken from recently discovered masters. It’s historically important and sonically amazing.
Highlights include the Goodies’ “Dum Dum Ditty,” the Jelly Beans’ “The Kind of Boy You Can’t Forget” and Evie Sands’ recording of Chip Taylor’s “I Can’t Let Go,” later a hit for the Hollies.
The real find here is Ellie Greenwich’s never-released recording of “Call Me His,” a very early Neil Diamond composition.
Real Gone Music is an ambitious new re-issue label and The Red Bird Girls is one of their best collections yet. This is classic sixties pop and rock, with energy and attitude to spare.