I can’t remember why I bought this album. I guess with a lot of 60s artists, as it was a time before the LP had really become the in-thing, it makes a bit more sense to go for compilations over (usually) hastily assembled studio albums (which in most cases are simple compilations of singles and B-sides anyway).
I used to work with a guy in Oldham who was obsessed with The Mamas & The Papas. I never really saw the attraction really - although there are some very nice harmonies on here. I guess they’re a bit like a prototype Abba really, five or so years before that group hit the big time. Although if you were to go the whole way and change the name of the band to the band members’ initials, they actually sound more like a hip-hop group: DJMC.
Hit: California Dreamin’
Hidden Gem: Creeque Alley
Papa John Phillips at least is seen as a major figure in the San Fransisco psychedilic scene, but I've never understood why. I assume that he was just a face. Got there early, knew everyone. I like the Mama and the Papas in places, but they're a bit too sweet for my liking. Not a million miles away from the Carpenters even. But next to the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane and so on, this isn't remotely phychedilic. Everyone like Dedicated to the One I Love though, don't they?
ReplyDelete