Search - Oak Ridge Boys :: Fancy Free

"Elvira" not the only reason to buy!!!

Kyle | 04/28/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In 1981, the entire country was singing "oom papa mow mow" to a catchy tune entitled "Elvira." While this song has become the Oaks' signature hit, it is NOT the only reason to purchase "Fancy Free," the album "Elvira" ORIGINALLY appeared on.This album was unique from the beginning in my opinion. "Elvira" was recorded at the end of 1980, the first cut for the album (in fact, the album had not even completed production when the single was released, thus no album credits were given on the original 45). The album was released just as the song began crossing over from the country to the pop charts, which gave it nearly instant platinum status. You would think that the title of the album would be "Elvira." WRONG. The Boys, knowing that people would already know the album for "Elvira," cleverly titled it by their SECOND single release, "I'm Settin' Fancy Free." This gave the follow-up more attention upon release.As far as songs go, this album has it all. From the landmark crossover smash to the genuinely-country "Dream of Me," to the tear-jerking ballad "When Love Calls You," there's something here for everyone. There's even a high-energy gospel song included at the end (reinterating the fact that now matter how big they may become, the Oaks will always be rooted in Gospel music).Today, you can almost literally pick up any country compilation CD and find "Elvira" on it. This album is reason enough to go beyond the "oom papa mow mow"s and see what the Oaks are really about."

The best lead vocals from Richard Sterban

Santoro | U.S.A. | 06/03/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Buy this album and listen to the song When I'm With You, sung by Richard Sterban. That is the best lead on any Oak Ridge Boys song ever!"