If you didn't know better, these 18 infectious tracks would have you thinking that
the Chanters were one of the late-'50s/early-'60s' top groups. Despite an abundance of skills, however, nothing clicked for the Queens, NY, natives. They never sold many records and only enjoyed a small following. Kiddie tenor
Larry Pendergrass was a virtual clone of
Frankie Lymon; a more mature tenor did the honors on "Angel Darling," a quality slow doo wop, but
Pendergrass handled most leads. Crack arrangements by
Bud Johnson elevated their recordings (style-wise) above those of their contemporaries, and you'll love all of these charming, contagious romps and ballads (except possibly "On the Alamo," an odd, campy tune with dumb lyrics). Prime movers include "No, No, No," "Five Little Kisses," "Row Your Boat," "At My Door," "My, My Darling," and the strong MOR updates "Over the Rainbow" and "For Sentimental Reasons."