This compilation, originally released in 1966, consists of songs the band recorded in 1964 and 1965. Its impressive collection of hits illustrates the surprisingly short time in the spotlight for such a renowned band.
To start with, a bit of chin-scratching about the recording quality. Purists would probably consider that to re-master The Animals- thus possibly changing their signature sound- would be sacrilegious. However, the harsh reality is that old-time production values means lots of distortion, poor dynamic range, muffled instruments and other areas that are totally humbled by modern recordings. However, the balance between instruments is very good, and the crackly hammond organ sound is wonderous.
It turns out that most of their songs are covers, but their infectious style and great hooks means I'm too busy enjoying the songs to worry about originality. Blues undertones are present in most songs, and come to the foreground in I'm Mad Again. Compared with say The Beatles, the songs are a lot more serious and gritty. They did attempt the sugar-coated pop in Let the Good Times Roll and I've Been Around, but in my opinion they feel clunky and contrived.
It's My Life is one of my favourite songs, to me its use of a simple guitar riff is ahead of its time. And I think there is also untapped potential in the song: I've never heard a cover of it, but I think think it would work well as a modern heavy-rock song, or as a fast-paced punk version.
Speaking of covers, The Animals' simple version of Johnny Lee Hooker's Dimples is also amongst my all-time favourites. It's not the slightest bit unique, but it hits the spot perfectly.
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