Fine Debut Album.
Morten Vindberg | Denmark | 09/17/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"The Beau Brummmels' 1965 debut-album contains to band two biggest hit-singles "Laugh Laugh" and "Just a Little" both of which are still great listening. Their early music was greatly inspired by the Beatles but also by some of their American contemporaries like the Lovin Spoonful. In fact one of their other 1965 singles "Good Time Music" was written by John Sebastian of the Lovin Spoonful. Great to find this fine song among the bonus-tracks.
The music on the original album was mostly written by guitarist Ron Elliott, and he was obviously a fine songwriter. Besides the two hits, catchy songs like "Stick Like Glue" and "Not Too Long Ago" stand out. Also their cover of "Oh, Lonesome Me" is fine - sounds a little like the Everly Brothers.
Occasionally their vocal harmonies sound a little odd - especially on a couple of the bonus-tracks which are mostly demos or weaker versions of the album-tracks. On the other hand besides "Good Time Music" some of the bonus-tracks are actually quite good. Elliott's "Gentle Wandering Ways" and "I'll Tell You" are fine recordings - also lead-singer Sal Valentino's "It's So Nice" is good.
Nice 8-pages booklet with a fine biography witten by Chris Welch."
Beau Brummels - 'Introducing The.....' (Sundazed)
Mike Reed | USA | 09/28/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"'Introducing...' was the band's first lp as it USUALLY is great to always here a band's(any band's)for that matter very first effort.Originally released in 1965.Two bonus tracks are added on.It's been SO long since I've heard any music from the San Francisco five piece.Beau Brummels had managed to benefit from creating their own brand of harmless good-natured laid back pop.Heck,I think my own parents would even get something out of this reissue.The Brummels have much to offer the listener in the way of employing somewhat rich melodies and soaring harmonies in the making of their music.Key tracks include "Laugh,Laugh","Just A Little","Oh Lonesome Me" and the rocking "That's If You Want Me".Should appeal to fans of the Byrds,Lovin' Spoonful,the Monkees,Grass Roots and the Searchers."