Search - Nino Tempo, April Stevens :: Sweet and Lovely: The Best of Nino Tempo & April Stevens

More classy classic pop

Zub | Forks Twp., PA | 01/19/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Brother and sister Nino Tempo and April Stevens had chart successes both together and individually from the 50s into the 70s. This compilation, while focusing on their stint at Atco in the early 60s and later with White Whale Records, also includes April's solo minor hit from '59, "Teach Me Tiger", along with two previously unreleased songs done in the 90s. The Atco recordings include all their charted singles headed up by the chart-topping "Deep Purple". A lesser number of cuts from their White Whale period follow, among which is the Spectorian marvel "All Strung Out". Nino and April's musical talents beyond just performing are made evident here and the variety of styles handled range from schmaltzy and sophisticated pop to country and r'n'b. While much of Nino and April's output is represented here, there are a few omissions such as April's "Wake Up And Love Me" on A&M, that, had they been included, would have made this a five-star collection. Sound quality is generally very good although a few early Atco tracks are noticeably sandy. Tracks are in stereo with the exception of 1,3,4,7 and 11. The eight-page liner notes booklet includes a musical backround on the pair with some pics. Though not totally comprehensive in coverage, this piece offers an excellent overview of this highly talented yet underappreciated duo. More White Whale recordings of Nino and April are available on the Varese Vintage "All Strung Out" CD. In addition, their first two Atco albums are available on a Collectables two-fer. For those seeking a deeper mining of this pair's musical output, these CDs are also worthwhile."

A collection of their absolute best. Classy rockabilly.

Bob Magruder at magruder@USA.com | Dallas, Texas | 09/23/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If Nino & April had come along in 1952, rather than l962, they would have been huge stars. Their rockabilly style with the pop standards of the 40s and 50s was unique and commercial. Nino's musicianship was (is?) superb. But in the 60s, hard rock was taking over record sales. And Nino & April's best stuff was looked upon as "novelty". Although "Deep Purple" and "Whispering" were their big sellers, their "Tea For Two" and "Paradise" may be the best versions I ever heard. Terrific also are the original "Together" and Nino's inspired version of "Begin The Beguine". Trying mainstream rock, the pair had somewhat of a comeback with "All Strung Out" in 1966 and then faded to the nightclub circuit. Also liked Nino's attempt at country and jazz on the last two cuts. I dare you to listen to this album twice and not have Nino and April's unique phrasing pulsing in your head."

Good selection,wonderful vocals,interesting arrangements

Zub | 11/04/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you know classics like "Stardust" etc. from other vintage recordings (Nat Cole,..) you will find a pleasant difference in this arrangements. "Teach me Tiger" is an absolute must for Fans and a real smashing title."