Renaissance -A rebirth of a band
TOM FALK | fairfield, ohio United States | 02/08/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I bought Renaissance by the Association when it was first released in the mid 60's, and contunue to play it often as it is one of my favorite all-time albums.
The only commercial hit from this set was a ballad sung by Jim Yester called No Fair At All, and it's about the lamest song on the album.It hit the charts for about 15 seconds. Avant garde cuts like Pandoras Golden Heebie Jeebies shows the masterful talent of Gary (Jules) Alexander. The jazzy riffs and musical surprises' with the bonus of the haunting vocals of Terry Kirkman on Angeline, and Russ' trip through Alice in wonderland on Looking Glass, give this album it's roller coaster appeal.
I've always felt that The Association was a very mis-understood and under-rated band because their management sold them out to top 40 AM radio. Their top 40 songs were only keys to let them record their REAL music that unfortunately never hit the airwaves.
If you like The Association, this album is a must !have for your collection. Rating: 5 Marys UP!!"
Etheral proto psych-folk; wonderful.
09/18/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This rare album is amazing. The only reason I give it four stars instead of five is that all the songs aren't written by Gary (Jules) Alexander. I wish they were. Every single song he ever wrote is pure, raw genius. Where or where is his solo effort?!
Anyway, these songs are simple and yet also quite other-wordly. They are unique. The arrangements are masterful. When most people think of the Association they think of "Cherish" or "Windy" which are cheesey, poppy, gooey, pieces of musical sentimental doo-doo. This album conatins a more raw, honest sentiment. And is even radical in places. Buy it immediately."
Better than the debut...
David Goodwin | Westchester, NY United States | 05/31/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I know the above isn't a popular sentiment by any means, but heck...I know both albums pretty well, and I think this blows away most of "And Then...Along Comes..." The good songs on that were great, as are the good songs on this, but there's less general filler, in my opinion (although No Fair At All *is* pretty lame). The import price--and lack of bonus tracks--could mean that one should wait until some domestic label inevitably reissues these albums, but if you're interested in the Association, this album, self-titled, and Birthday are the ones to get...get Along Comes Mary and Windy on a Greatest Hits disc."
Track Listings (14) - Disc #1