Search - Various Artists :: Hit Parade 1948

A strong collection--it doesn't get any better than this !!!

Matthew G. Sherwin | last seen screaming at Amazon customer service | 11/25/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Hit Parade 1948 is a budget priced CD that still gives us plenty of great tunes from 1948! The sound quality is generally quite good and the artwork is nicely done.



There are quite a few wonderful songs on this disc so I guess I'll stick to the very biggest highlights. The CD starts with a charming rendition of "It's Magic" sung by the great Doris Day; her voice is wonderfully full and she hits all those notes with great skill. When they say servicemen used to listen to her sing, I believe it! "It's Magic" makes for a strong start to this album. In addition, I also like Dick Haymes crooning his very best on "Little White Lies;" this is a timeless number that you can still enjoy today if you like such artists as Harry Connick, Jr. and others. Dick's tenor voice is excellent. Now if only they told us who accompanies Dick on "Little White Lies!"



"Buttons And Bows" is another cute number by Dinah Shore; and I especially enjoy "Serenade Of The Bells." "Mañana" is a tune by Peggy Lee that initially caused a stir in the Spanish community until she and husband David Balfour explained that they were jealous of the casual, relaxed attitude many Spanish people take on life--this was a far cry from the Hollywood grind Peggy Lee and David Balfour had to endure!



"On A Slow Boat To China" has an excellent arrangement that makes good use of the brass; Harry Babbitt and Gloria Wood complement each other's vocals perfectly for "On A Slow Boat To China." Perry Como sings his heart out on "Because;" and there's a great gem in "I'll Dance At Your Wedding" performed by Ray Noble with Buddy Clark and an uncredited lady vocalizing flawlessly. Pee Wee Hunt's "Twelfth Street Rag" is also thrown in for some shock effect as this tune sounds a number from an earlier time--but it works so nicely it doesn't do any harm.



Art Mooney and his chorus do an outstanding job on two classic melodies: "Baby Face" and "I'm Looking Over A Four Leaf Clover." I love it!



The Pied Pipers sing "My Happiness;" and the CD ends sweetly with Francis Craig and Bob Lamm performing "Beg Your Pardon." "Beg Your Pardon" starts with a strong piano solo that captures your attention and it never lets go--you'll be left wanting more after you play this CD!



I highly recommend this album for people who love classic pop vocals. The year 1948 saw many great tunes--and this selection is certainly the cream of the crop.

"

There;s Nothing Like the 40's

Lance S. Edwards | 04/29/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"If you're into the pace and style of the era then this is one for your collection. Great tunes by the original artists. It doesn't get any better."

Hit Parade of 1948

Jere N. Moore | 07/12/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I bought it as an anniversary gift for a couple married in 1948 and they loved it.

Jere Moore"