Search - Dick Bartley :: Dick Bartley Presents: On The Radio, Vol. 3

A.M. tunes without the static

Zub | Forks Twp., PA | 04/08/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Here in volume three of Dick Bartley's "On The Radio" series are 16 more tunes from the golden age of top-40 a.m. presented, to the extent possible, in their original as-heard-on-radio form. Some of the tracks included here exhibit only minor differences from versions found elsewhere but several are dramatically different from what we are used to finding on CD reissues. The stereo mix of "Chapel Of Love" here has backround vocals and horns missing on some other versions that have showed up on compilation CD's. The bright stereo remix of "More Today Than Yesterday" replaces the dull original stereo version usually heard. Dobie Gray's "The In Crowd" is presented in true stereo from a pristine vinyl source as the original stereo master has been lost. A few of the versions here are original mono mixes that have heretofore been supplanted by radically different stereo mixes that are all that have been available up to now - "Creeque Alley" by the Mamas and Papas and B.J. Thomas' "Hooked On A Feeling" as examples. Complementing the music is an eight-page liner notes booklet with interesting notes on what we're hearing (and in some cases, not hearing) on these tracks. For those fans who appreciate hearing the versions of these tunes as they were way back when and often with the benefit of stereo soundstage, this is worthwhile collection to add to your CD library."

Almost a perfect compilation

Zub | 12/19/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

""The Name Game," loathed by another reviewer, was among my least favorites as well (nice R&B groove behind Ms. Ellis, though). But the one track I can live without is "Desiderata." The best that can be said about that fluff piece is that it inspired a caustic but funny response called "Deteriorata." Otherwise, this is a VERY good compliation. "Never My Love," "The 'In' Crowd," "Chapel Of Love," "Double Shot," "Hold Your Head Up," and especially the propulsive "Bend Me, Shape Me" are so stunning that any other CD versions pale by comparison. Not only does this CD contain the versions I remember listening to on Top 40 radio (and in some cases, still have as well-worn 45s), it offers a true variety of artists and styles. Recommended listening to those "boomers" out there who want to make their floor speakers or headphones happy again."