Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Dion: The Gift That Keeps On Giving



I just discovered what has become my favorite album of the week, the 1967 reunion of Dion & The Belmonts. I had no idea this record existed before last week. It's far from perfect, but what's good is insanely good and very little is bad.

One rocker, a Dion original called "Jump Back Baby" is an absolute kick-ass joy. Think "Heat Wave" by Martha & The Vandellas. Actually, it IS "Heat Wave," but I imagine since this record was a flop, no one bothered taking Dion to court. There is a jangly take on Dylan's "Mama, You've Been On Mind," that feels just great. A couple of tracks, "Loserville" and "Movin' Man," both have that psych/folk feel of Dion's solo gem, "Wonder Where I'm Bound." And the track above, which blew my mind, a Dion original called, "My Girl The Month Of May."

If I am late to the party on this one, forgive me.

(h/t Tony S.)




7 comments:

buzzbabyjesus said...

In the '80's I bought box set, "50 Greatest Hits" by Dion and The Belmonts. Bargain label. They swing. He sings.
I'm later to this party than you. "Wonder Where I'm Bound" is a favorite, and this sounds pretty similar.

Dave said...

You are late, but the only penalty is the postponement of joy. Dion is still a pleasure to see live. He talks almost as much as he plays and sing.

Dave F

YankeeBoy said...

Not to mention "My Girl The Month of May".

Sal Nunziato said...

YANKEE BOY, I both mentioned it and posted a video.

Robin said...

I didn't know about it either, can't wait to check it out. Dion is one of my favorites. Thank you!

Chris Collins said...

I'm hoping to go see him and Ronnie Spector. I'm kicking myself for missing the show in Brooklyn.

Anonymous said...

Dion is the best, and I loved his autobiography, too!