Search - Everly Brothers :: All They Had to Do Was Dream

A Fascinating Study of the Creative Process

dev1 | Baltimore | 06/10/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"The Beatles, Hollies, Bee Gees, Simon and Garfunkle, Byrds and the Righteous Brothers all closely studied the Everly Brothers, and for good reason. They set the standard for close two-part vocal harmonies, and their influence on popular music (especially country-rock) is unquestionable. I purchased All They Had To Do Was Dream not only because of my love for vocal harmonies, but because of my respect and admiration for Rhino. Rhino searches first-generation master tapes for quality high-fidelity recordings - I've always been pleasantly surprised with the sonic excellence of Rhino's compilations. All They Had To Do Was Dream is not an Everly Brothers Greatest Hits package, but a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the Cadence recordings sessions. The quibbling between Phil, Don and Chet Atkins has been left in. The Everly Brothers combined bluegrass, Appalachian and Negro music (I'd use the term "Rhythm and Blues," but today's definition is so ambiguous) into rock'n'roll. For a fascinating study of the creative process, try All They Had To Do Was Dream."

Great Harmonies

dev1 | 01/16/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Most albums of outtakes clearly show why those versions of the songs were never used. On this cd, these outake versions are as good as the versions eventually released. Mostly just Don and Phil on accoustic guitars with Chet. This is enjoyable all the way through and highly recommended."