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The Ventures - Play The Greatest Instrumental Hits Of All Time
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The Ventures are the greatest instrumental band in the history of recorded music. I say that with absolutely no reservation at all. What better choice could there possibly be to re-record the greatest instrumental hits of all time? That is exactly what they do on “The Ventures Play The Greatest Instrumental Hits Of All Time.” It is no coincidence that this great group popularized several of the songs on this CD in the 60’s. This band got together when I was born in 1958, man! They only seem to get better like fine wine.
With today’s new recording techniques the old becomes the new again. They did something similar over the last few years when a series of CD’s were released called the “VGold” collection, which this CD is actually culled from, this is a best of from all of those releases. By covering a portion of their catalog with newer versions of their songs, a new audience then becomes available to listen. It does not come as a surprise that it all sounds wonderful.
Stand out tracks include the funky all-time classic “Green Onions,” which instantly transports me to the sixties when I was a little boy watching “I Dream of Jeannie.” The “James Bond Theme,” which sounds more powerful than ever with a stronger bass and stinging guitar lines, and “Sleep Walk” always sounds good, especially when the granddaddies of instro rock perform it. I think if you were to mention the greatest instrumental hits of all time “Sleep Walk” or “Classical Gas” (which I am actually surprised was not included on this set) would be those that were discussed the most. I love “Bongo Rock,” there is something about that primal beat that seems to fit in with this kind of music. It works with almost any genre actually…jazz uses the bongos effectively and so does world music, it is a very versatile percussive instrument.
Sixteen tracks is an abbreviated version of the greatest instrumentals, it has to be, there are just so many great songs, you could easily lose track. The Ventures have recorded over 100 albums (the figure will differ depending on who you talk to) over the years so I think it is safe to say that they are the best choice to record this type of album.
Every time they re-record a song, it sounds better. It does not always turn out this like this mind you, but this band is exceptional. This album is a credit to their remarkable and every growing talent as a group, not to mention their incredible resourcefulness and miraculous longevity.
© Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck |
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