Ace Records CDCHD 822
Ace Records in the UK have come up with another of their expert delves into the history of a reasonably obscure US record label, and this is well up to their usual standard of informative liner notes, photos of the performers, pics of record labels etc.
Unfortunately, the music isn't that good. Cincinnati’s Fraternity label had its moments in the 50s and 60s, but few of them are on this CD. If you like wannabe Elvis style rockabilly there are a few half decent tracks, and the early work of country star Bobby Bare highlights his impressive voice.
Worth it for the money alone, though, is track 6, a lovely, full and resounding take of Jackie Shannon and the Cajuns powering through Just another lie. Great sound, great song, and the recording quality is so good that Jackie is there in the room with you. Liner note writer Rob Finnis dubs Jackie "fiercely ambitious from an early age" and wrongly says that her first record came out under the name of Sharon Myers - well, you can't expect a liner note writer to get everything correct, can you? But all is atoned with a great pic of dark-haired Jackie wearing tight shiny trousers. Fans of the early Jackie will want this in their collection. Buy from Bim-Bam Records, at www.bim-bam.com and from Collector’s Choice Music, at www.collectorschoicemusic.com. ~Peter Lerner
