Anthology

by

Tommy James and Tommy James & The Shondells

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Any sixties collection requires this compilation, which next to one import is the best there is for Tommy James and the Shondells, and priced better than many single greatest hits discs ("essentials" for example).

This Michigan band started when he recorded "Hanky Panky" back in 1963 and released on the "Snap" label. At the time he was only 15-16 years old and was a local hit. It was finally picked up for national distribution in 1966 and his first release was also his first number one, ( a great summer for music).

All the big hits are here, (Crystal Blue Persuasion, Crimson and Clover, I Think We're Alone Now, and of course Mony Mony), but the nice thing is that it also includes great top 40(not top ten) hits like Doe Something To Me, Out Of The Blue, and Say I Am, and B sides . Even the great underrated album "Cellophane Symphony" is represented with "Loved One" and the classic "Sweet Cherry Wine".

"Crimson and Clover" is the single mix, as opposed to the longer version , (which was really spliced together and at two different tape speeds), but represents what we remember on the radio.

Their affect on todays music is shown by the artists who have covered their tunes, (Billy Idol-Mony Mony, Clique-Sugar On Sunday, Tiffany-I Thing We're Alone Now, Joan Jett-Crimson and Clover, Dragging the Line-R.E.M.). They still perform today and are well worth the ticket. (They play LOUD).

Also included are some solo hits, (Dragging the Line), which is also available on his Solo Greatest Hits Package which is a good addition to this if you like the music.

If you like the sixties, a collector, or an Oldies DJ, this Rhino Collection is a must have. The quality of the CD is good, and the price is right Definitely some party tunes here!

Good Listening!