A Must for Anyone Who Enjoys Music
Joe Taravella | 05/28/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"O.C. Smith is one of the most underrated artists of his day. People who know of him often call him a one hit wonder. Well, a one hit wonder is usually someone who has one big top forty hit and then just fades into obscurity. O.C. Smith scored three great top forty hits with "The Son of Hickory Holler's Tramp", "Little Green Apples" (his signature), and the fabulous "Daddy's Little Man".Now about this CD, Taragon has done it again! I have been waiting to hear a lot of these songs with good sound quality for so long, and now I can't stop listening to them! The liner notes are short, but has some great information.I can't go into detail about all 23 tracks, but O.C.'s delivery speaks for itself. He has such a great, silky, and smooth voice. There are a few short words about his version of "Help Me Make It Through the Night" and all I have to say is that O.C.'s version is THE DEFINITIVE version. It just sends me chills anytime I hear it.So here's to a great singer and a great collection of songs that you will enjoy."
Finally gets his due....
Zub | Forks Twp., PA | 04/08/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Though often pegged a one-hit wonder for his signature song "Little Green Apples", O.C. Smith had ten tunes that made the top-100 pop charts during the late 60's and early 70's. While previously, there have appeared budget compilations of his recordings, it has taken this long for a truely comprehensive greatest hits collection to see the light of day and it has come by way of the independent Taragon Records label, known for their high-quality reissues. All ten of his pop-charting songs are here along with other bubbling-under and failed singles filling out the generous 23-count tracks. As has come to be expected from Taragon releases, the production is first-class with all tracks in crystalline stereo. Complementing the audio is an informative, albeit brief liner notes booklet. This underrecognized r'n'b, pop, country and jazz singer finally gets his due recognition with this excellently produced piece."
What a Voice
grooverider | Toluca Lake LA | 07/19/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Yes, this CD has the hits (Little Green Apples, Daddy's Little Man, etc.) but the most eye-opening track is "I've Been There", a collaboration between the unbeatable team of producer Jerry Fuller and arranger Artie Butler. I believe this track had previously only been available on 45rpm. I really don't know what it is about the pairing of Jerry Fuller and Artie Butler, but O. C. Smith really gets into the lyrics (no surprise!) and he is backed by a most beautiful arrangement. There is so much talent here that I am so glad I have this CD. Thank you, O. C. Smith for the great gifts you shared with us all."
Track Listings (23) - Disc #1