This Sundazed release has twenty-two tracks, including all of the worthwhile songs from their classic 'Breakthrough' album, a non-LP single, and most of their second album, 'Colonization'. Stereo/Mono. 1993.
Summary:Ever Beside Me in My Heart Overall Rating: Comment:When "I Confess" boomed over WLS radio in Chicago, its sound was distinctive from most of the radio. It had a roughness and unpolished feel, but still was addictive with the guitar peeling out of the speakers, launching the local band. The songs on "At the River's Edge" are short, clocking around 2 & 1/2 minutes. Most of the band's first album "Breakthrough" that shares a cover similarity with this release are on this disc, but not all. There is a sweetness about the churning guitar sound on "Don't You Think It's Time You Stopped Your Cryin'" and the chugging rhythms of "Last Nite." "I And You" still has a haunting quality with the weeping organ, "We now are together, never again shall we part, we'll let nothing come between us, you are ever beside me in my heart." "I Lie Awake" has a great build and the classic churning guitars, making such a distinctive sound. "The Time of Year Is Sunset" offers dreamy harmonies that presage some of the Mercury sides the 6 would lay down several albums later. One of my favorite early Colony tracks is the pounding "Cadillac" that sounds part Indian drum chant, part garage rock, "I looked in the trunk but there wasn't no jack; I think I'll take this car right back." "Sunshine" that was the flip side of the 45 r.p.m. record of "Cadillac" wisps with great Colony harmonies. "I Love You So Much" is a great track with its distinctive melody, "Every night I hope & pray your sweet love will come my way, and now you're here, I've felt your touch, I love you so much." "You're Gonna Be Mine" has a distinctive sound that puts a smile on your face while it sets your toe tapping, "I never thought that I'd ever find any girl who'd drive me out of my mind." From their "Colonization" LP, the 6 do a delightful version of the John Sebastian (Lovin' Spoonful) penned tune with great high airy vocals and ripping lead guitar. With 22 tracks, "At the River's Edge" is an excellent release to review the early work of this great 60's Chicago band. Enjoy!
Summary:I CONFESS that this is a great album Overall Rating: Comment:This excellent album is BETTER than the Colonized Greatest Hits album because New Colony Six's early singles were much more consistent than their later song. I definitely recommend this 4 star album.