With the group celebrating its fortieth anniversary, it's a
testament to its unwavering dedication that it has come full circle and
re-recorded its greatest hits. Utilizing today's exceptional recording
technologies, it has breathed new life into these classics, making them sound
better than ever.
This dedication to their craft is truly inspiring, and it's no
wonder they continue to attract new audiences. Beginning their fiftieth decade
of recording and touring, these fine musicians have made an indelible mark on
music and our culture. The sounds perfected during the Gold sessions are
outstanding, with each song offering new and interesting twists and turns that
make for a thoroughly entrancing experience.
Nokie Edwards, a key figure in The Ventures' history, returns as
a guest on fourteen tracks. His return is a significant event for the group and
their fans, as he brings back the signature sound that defined The Ventures in
the sixties. Edwards still has what it takes. Those quick fingers go to work,
making melodious twang-filled notes that strike like lightning, stoking the
fire that once burned in the sixties.
Bob Bogel, who plays the bass, steps in on lead guitar on four
tracks: "Walk Don't Run," "Perfidia," "Guitar Boogie
Shuffle," and "Wipe Out." Then Leon Taylor shows why he is Mel's
son. What a nice job he does with that classic song.
Taylor adds some of his style and percussive variation, while
the diverse Bogel cuts loose with some tasteful and well-placed lead guitar
notes. It's not as powerful as "Wipe Out 2000"; nevertheless, it's just
as intriguing as any version I have ever heard. You can tell when Gerry McGee
steps back in on lead guitar, and his sound is distinctive. He plays with more
of an R&B flavor, with fatter chords, whereas Nokie has a more twangy
reverb style. Nokie's trademark sound of instro-surf inspired a new genre in
the sixties.
The late great Mel Taylor does one of his best numbers ever, and
one of my favorites is "Bongo Rock." What an exciting rocker it turns
into, thanks to the lightning-fast hands of one of music's greatest drummers.
We miss him dearly.
After forty years, The Ventures haven't lost a step; they have gained a few on their contemporaries. They are a truly exceptional
group that consistently produces excellent sound. Their music, whether a new
song or a remake, is a testament to their superb talent and dedication. It's a
sound that's truly heavenly to the ears, and we can't help but appreciate their
musical prowess.
Nobody does it like The Ventures. They are like the 'Beatles' of
instrumental rock and pop. They are living legends in every sense of the word,
and their energy and vitality seem to surpass that of groups half their age.
Their performances and recordings testify to their enduring passion and
commitment to their craft.
The Ventures are an original slice of Americana, making history
with every performance and every recording. Yes, this is pure Gold, and it's a thrill with
a chill that will run up your spine, leaving you wanting more.
Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck
June 14, 2000
Tracks:
01. Walk Don't Run
02. Telstar
03. The Cruel Sea
04. Slaughter On 10th Avenue
05. Yellow Jacket
06. Apache
07. Perfidia
08. Diamond Head
09. The House Of The Rising Sun
10. Secret Agent Man
11. Bumble Bee Rock
12. Pipeline
13. Wipe Out
14. Caravan
15. Tall Cool One
16. Red River Rock
17. The James Bond Theme
18. Guitar Boogie Shuffle
19. Bongo Rock
