Record Reviews

BOX TOPS ~ THE LETTER * NEON RAINBOW / CRY LIKE A BABY / NON STOP / DIMENSIONS BGO 1400 (Barcode: 5017261214003) ~ USA ~ Classic Pop Recorded: 1967 - 1969 Released: 2020 This is a reissue of the four albums by American Pop group The Box TopsFind albums by this artist, fronted by the charismatic deep-throated vocalist Alex ChiltonFind albums by this artist. The group enjoyed an unexpected international success with their single "The Letter" and continued their activity for about a couple of years, releasing for LPs. This remastered reissue includes these four LPs and all known early non-album recordings as bonus tracks, accompanied by a booklet with well written and well researched liner notes. The Box Tops were a typical American blue-eyed soul outfit influenced by the British Invasion. As most Pop groups at the time they performed songs written by their producers, such as Dan PennFind albums by this artist, Spooner OldhamFind albums by this artist and Chips MomanFind albums by this artist, or covers of songs by other artists, but in time Chilton started to write original songs, which were included on the two last albums. Although musically somewhat simplistic, in retrospect these songs are all a classics example of American Pop at the time and sound remarkably fresh today, especially in view of what passes as music these days. Chilton´s contributions remain as some of the most iconic vocal performances of American Pop. For more experienced listeners these albums are a remarkable example of the Memphis Sound, with the typical arrangements and instrumental work that characterized the Memphis studios at the time, which over time produced a massive part of American Pop. Overall this is a wonderful trip back in time, which offers a glance at American Pop at one of its focal periods and a great collection of songs, which is definitely worth revisiting. I definitely had a blast with this album!

Updated: 12/04/2020Posted: 12/04/2020

CD 2 Slipcase Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend