Elegant Kitsch
chris casey | St. Louis, MO USA | 11/23/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As a fan of standards in vocal jazz (Biiiiilllie!), and contemporary vocally-oriented music (i.e. Zap Mama, Bobby Mc Happy) the Hi-Lo's are a real treat- a singular American listening experience. Yes, there is the unavoidable mid-century kitsch factor, but who doesn't appreciate the pure artistic value of Herb Alpert every now and again? Truthfully, the Hi-Lo's unwaivering voices and sensitive arrangements bubble new breadth into old standards, with all the freshness of a tasty loaf of Wonder Bread. Try to listen to the Hi-Lo's with the same keen sagacity you would John Coltrane (or better yet McCoy Tyner)"
All highs and no lows!
Kevin Watt | Baltimore, MD USA | 01/03/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"If your a fan of close vocal harmonies and great arrangements you'll really enjoy this recording. And if the vocal arranging sounds familiar, it's because Gene Puerling (baritone, I think) did most of the writing for this group. You may be more familiar with his writing for the Singers Unlimited as well as his prevalent influence on the debut recording of the jazz vocal group, Take 6.
Also worth mentioning is the tremendous performance by the members of the Frank Comstock Orchestra. As a trumpet player, I would love to know who was on that session becaause they're all amazing!"
Not as Advertised
Daniel D. Russell | Nashville, TN USA | 09/26/2007
(2 out of 5 stars)
"Half of the songs on this "album" are not by the Hi-Lo's. Interspersed with genuine Hi-Lo's songs are a few College Glee Club numbers. They're not bad, don't know who they are, but they've little to do with the Hi-Lo's. (Amazon needs to check this out again.)"