An impressive debut for the just-born folk trio, this album presents songs that became stalwart parts of their stage act for decades, particularly
Lee Hays' "Lonesome Traveler," and the Russian gypsy tune "Gari Gari," and from Mexico, "Malaguena Salerosa." The album is marred by some stilted and obvious overdubbing, but even though some of the performances seem forced, the familiar three-part harmonies of
Glenn, Alex, and Lou are already there. Gottlieb's sense of humor is highlighted on
Uncle Dave Macon's "The Bear Chase," while
Glenn Yarbrough's tenor is featured on "When I First Came to This Land."
The Limeliters was one group that thrived before an audience. The rollicking, freewheeling humor generated mainly through Professor Gottlieb's introductions are not evident on this studio recording. This proved to be
the Limeliters' only album for Elektra before moving on to greater success with RCA Victor. ~ Cary Ginell