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It's Been Too Long Time Since We've Heard The Merry Macs

02/16/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Bring back memories of a time long past. Music was never better. The Merry Macs were the first to use this unique style of harmony. Three brothers and a gal blended their sounds and made them number one with "Mairzy Doats". Others, such as, "Pretty Kitty Blue Eyes" and "Sentimental Journey" also landed high on the Hit Parade. Listen for yourself and see if you don't agree....It's been way too long.."

Wonderful harmonies, great listening, presentation just okay

Scott MacGillivray | Massachusetts, USA | 03/09/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"The Merry Macs, one of the very best close-harmony vocal groups, scored hit after hit on the 1940s charts, and a good many of them are included on this CD ("Mairzy Doats," "Cheatin' on the Sandman," etc.). The recordings are darn near "a cappella" -- the singers are accompanied by sparse rhythm backings, keeping the voices out in front. A great performance of "The Hut-Sut Song" sets the tone; if you like this, you'll like the album.It is a tribute to The Merry Macs that they were able to sustain their special sound despite personnel changes. According to the CD notes, there were four different teamings over the years (always three guys and a girl; the McMichael brothers were the nucleus) -- but the notes don't tell us which team recorded what songs. This sloppy documentation doesn't give the personnel its due. Also, two Bing Crosby records are ill-advisedly included here, with the unfortunate effect of turning the CD's focal point into mere backup singers.Anyway, the musicianship far exceeds the production shortcomings, making this an excellent buy for those who enjoy this kind of close harmony. Fidelity is excellent. Highly recommended."