Search - Springfields :: Very Best of

Dusty began singing folk and old-time country

Peter Durward Harris | Leicester England | 04/15/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Before Dusty started her solo career which we will all remember her for, she was lead singer of the Springfields, which also included her brother Tom. After Dusty went solo, Tom became record producer for the Seekers.So this collection of some of their music has more in common with folk groups like the Weavers and old time country groups like the Carter family than it does with Dusty's pop/R+B music. Indeed, the only thing the Springfields shares with Dusty's later music is Dusty's great voice. Apart from great covers of old folk and country classics, they also covered old (especially 1940's) pop classics such as Dear hearts and gentle people - but done in a more folky style.Of their own songs, Americans will remember them (if at all) for Silver threads and golden needles, while Brits will remember them (if at all) for Island of Dreams, a UK top five hit later covered by the Seekers on their Come the day LP. Because their cover has been released on various Seekers compilations, it is generally easier to find than the Springfields version. Their other UK top five hit, Say I won't be there, is an adaptation of the French children's song, Au Clair de la Lune.This is a great collection for those who like old-time folk and country music (or folk-pop like the Seekers), demonstrating that Dusty, like all truly great singers, could sing just about any type of song - brilliantly. However, if you are really interested in their music, I'd recommend the double CD, Over the hills and far away, which is far more comprehensive (although it does not include Star of hope or the German version of Silver threads and golden needles) - if you can find it."