Two albums on one CD
C. Kuschel-Toerber | Frankfurt, Hessen | 11/16/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Allan Clarke, lead singer of The Hollies for 30 years, ventured out on his own with a handful of solo albums in the 1970's. Clarke's always had one of the most recognizable voices in the pop/rock business (remember "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother"?), and this CD also shines with his unique vocals. This release includes two full albums, originally recorded in 1978 and 1979, minus one (inferior) track. Both "I Wasn't Born Yesterday" and "Legendary Heroes" were cut in Los Angeles with some of the finest studio musicians around at the time, serving as a perfect, professional background for Allan Clarke's outstanding vocal abilities.Personally, I've always liked the first album better, as the later release suffered from an overdose of rather awkward, edgy compositions (almost all of the tracks were written by Allan Clarke with Gary Benson). Occasionally HOLLIES fans will miss some of the magic harmonies here, but all in all this 19-track CD will provide for 70 minutes of timeless pop music. Personal favorites are "Hope" and "Shadow in the Street" from "I Wasn't Born..." as well as "Walls" from "Legendary Heroes"."
A must-listen for Hollies fans and Allan Clarke fans
Robert E | US | 03/07/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"It took a couple of listens to fully appreciate this CD, but I find that I really enjoyed it after listening several times. Most of the songs are a departure from his work with The Hollies, and that may at first detract from your enjoyment of the CD, but listen without prejudice and you will find that the lyrics and the music are really good. I hope that anyone who wasn't sure whether or not to buy this CD will go ahead and get it; it will be well worth your while."
Track Listings (19) - Disc #1