The Crewcuts Go Long Hair

The Crewcuts Go Long Hair- Album Overview

Released in 1964, "The Crewcuts Go Long Hair" represents a significant moment in pop and doo-wop music. The Crew-Cuts, a vocal group known for their tight harmonies and upbeat sound, initially rose to fame in the early 1950s with their hit songs like "Sh-Boom" and "Earth Angel." By the time of this album's release, the group was trying to adapt to the changing musical landscape marked by the British Invasion and the emergence of more complex rock sounds. The album was produced under the Mercury Records label, a key player in the music industry during this era.

The recording sessions for "The Crewcuts Go Long Hair" featured collaborations with various arrangers and instrumentalists, aiming to blend the group's classic doo-wop roots with contemporary influences. The album showcases a mix of original tracks and covers, maintaining the group's signature harmonies while experimenting with new styles. Among the notable singles released from this album were "Ain't She Sweet" and "I Love You," which highlighted the group's ability to adapt and remain relevant. Although the album did not achieve the same level of commercial success as their earlier works, it is significant for its attempt to transition into a new musical era and showcases the group's resilience and willingness to evolve.

Review

The sound of "The Crewcuts Go Long Hair" is an interesting juxtaposition of classic doo-wop harmonies and the burgeoning rock sound of the 1960s. The group's vocals are polished and tight, characteristic of their earlier recordings, but there is a noticeable effort to incorporate heavier instrumentation and more complex arrangements. The lyrical content often reflects themes of love and youthful exuberance, a staple of their earlier work, yet with a slightly more mature perspective. The album's artistic vision seems to be a bridge between the doo-wop era and the more rock-oriented sound that was taking over the charts. While the production values are commendable, the album sometimes feels like it's struggling to find its identity amidst the rapidly changing musical landscape of the time.

Highlights

• The group's signature harmonies shine through on tracks like "Ain't She Sweet."
• Innovative arrangements that blend doo-wop with the emerging rock sound.
• The album showcases the Crew-Cuts' willingness to evolve with the times.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel dated compared to contemporary rock standards.
• Occasional lack of cohesion in the album's overall sound.
• Limited commercial impact compared to their earlier hits.

Overall evaluation

"The Crewcuts Go Long Hair" is a commendable effort from a group attempting to navigate the shifting tides of popular music in the 1960s. While it may not achieve the heights of their earlier work, it remains a testament to their adaptability and enduring appeal.