Search - Diamonds :: Best of Mercury Years

The Diamonds are the Mecca of vocal harmony groups

07/17/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Diamonds scored 16 hits between 1956 and 1962 - all of which are represented on this album. The album also features a number of tracks which have hitherto been unobtainable - the rare "Oh Carol" which features bass vocalist JOHN FELTEN, and the previously unreleased "Chimes in my Heart", a Bill Medley composition to delight the most discriminating doo-wopper. Lead singer Dave Somerville is a classicly trained singer who joined The Diamonds just prior to the emergence of Rock and Roll. His vocal training is clearly evident throughout the album. The Diamonds are indeed the Mecca of vocal harmony groups. This album is a "must have" for all lovers of good music"

" The Diamonds "

Roland J.D. Boulware | Hayward , California | 11/13/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Diamonds are not just a " group " , but a extermely versatile group . They recorded straight ahead R&B , R&R , &
Pop . Whether it be a latin flavored number or tradition Doo Wop ,street corner standard ; they pulled it off tastfully.
The Groups' Feb. 1957 recording of The Gladiolas , " Little Darlin' " is a perfect example of what Doo Wop should sound like ; cover or not . It's doubtful that any other version of the song would've hit the charts like The Diamonds did . The bassnarrative & the falsetto intro helps make this tune what it is ; an all time ,rock & roll classic. David Somerville's sustained ," Why " on " Why Do Fools Fall In Love " shows his fine vocal abilities , truly unbeatable . Their December 1957 recording of the original , "The Stroll " shows that the group had no problem working with original material ;creating yet another all time classic. Whether it be " Ka Ding Dong " or
" She Say " , cover or original , The Diamonds were fantastic.
My Favorite , though not included on this CD is, " Eternal Lover's " . It features a heavy bass intro , exit & great lead vocals , again by Somerville . " Mercury " made a wise choice
in signing the this fantastic group ! Great CD ,Great music ,
Great talent !-Enjoy! Roland J.D.Boulware"

Best of The Diamonds-A wonderful trip back.

Roland J.D. Boulware | 07/10/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording spans from 1956 thru 1961 and is part of Poloygrams "The Mercury Years" series. Thanks to the distinctive and strong lead voice of David Somerville, this is a good representation of what they were known for. However, bridging the gap of Big Band and the beginnings of rock and roll, this talanted group was capable of much more. With segregation in radio play, they were a "cover" group. Recording the same songs as the black R & B, and Doo-wop groups, which were not played on "white" stations. Being a common practice at that time, but not common knowledge, they and others had very successfuls careers with this format. With the absents of record scratch the quality of this recording sounds great. The pinnacle of the collection is "Little Darlin." This was kept out of the No. 1 spot only by the king of rock and roll himself, Elvis. As you listen, you can hear the change in music style from '56 to '61. Members included, David Somerville-lead. Ted Kowalski, Evan Fisher-tenor. Phil Levitt, Mike Douglas-baritone. Bill Reed, John Felten-bass. This should be a "must have" for Diamonds fans. Also available from the Diamonds, "25 Golden Hits.""