This two-disc collection features 50 classic R&B and doo wop tracks released between 1953 and 1962 on the Herald record label. The tracks were then licensed for distribution in the U.K. by Jeffrey Kruger and released there on the Ember imprint. Most of these cuts will be unfamiliar to the casual listener, although the huge hits "Stay" by
Maurice Williams & the Zodiacs and "Get a Job" by
the Silhouettes will certainly ring bells. There are a lot of rare and wonderful treasures here, including
the Zodiacs doing a near-cousin to "Stay," the similarly arranged (but exactly opposite in theme) "Come Along." The elaborate vocal arrangement on "Paradise Hill" by
the Embers is a delight, as is the proto-beach soul of "Sister Sookey" by the Turbans. The previously unreleased "Wedding Bells" by the Loungers is another highlight. Lovingly assembled, this set is recommended for all fans of street-corner doo wop and early vocal group R&B. ~ Steve Leggett