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An obscure vocal jazz gem from the LA scene of the 50s – recorded for Atlantic, but done in a style that's a fair bit like the best work for Bethlehem or Mode at the time! Betty Bennett sings here with backings from Shorty Rogers on one side, and Andre Previn on the other – often in a mode that's slightly dark, and subdued – gently moving forth with a nice sense of restraint. Betty's vocals burst out nicely at times – showing a nicely illustrative style, especially on some of the more story-based tunes – and there's a nice choice of material here that's a refreshing change from some of the overdone standards on other vocal albums. Tracks include "Sidewalks Of Cuba", "Island In The West Indies", "Tomorrow Mountain", "This Is The Moment", and "Treat Me Rough". CD

Lots of rare gems from the headiest days of the Texas scene – tracks by The Bards, The Briks, The Trackers, The Moving Sidewalks, Tommy Jett, The Exotics, Bobby Mabe & The Outcast, The Cynics, The Fantastics, The Lavender Hour, The Fanatics, Electric Love, Buccaneers, The Wanderers, Kit & The Outlaws, The 5 Canadians, and Larry & The Blue Notes. LP, Vinyl record album