A very good, if slightly short overview of
the Beau Brummels career, this record covers all sides of this fine band's career; many of them misunderstood and unrecognized. The majority of the album focus on the group's fine pioneering folk-rock sides for
Autumn Records such as
"Laugh, Laugh," "Just a Little," and the underrated
"Don't Talk to Strangers." But it's the final few tracks that command the most attention. After moving to
Warner Bros. in 1966, the group explored a more intense, mildly psychedelic approach with stunning success -- at least artistically.
"Magic Hollow," with exquisite harpsichord accompaniment by
Van Dyke Parks, may be the band's greatest moment. Ditto for tracks from
Bradley's Barn, such as
"Deep Water" and
"Turn Around," both of which were easily three years ahead of their time in 1968. Highly recommended as an overview. ~ Matthew Greenwald