The Swinging Blue Jeans - Feelin’ Better: Anthology (1963-1969)

Initially formed as a skiffle band in 1957, The Swinging Blue Jeans went through numerous personnel changes before shifting their sound in 1962 to become a Merseybeat band.  At that point they signed a deal with HMV and over the next few years released several hit singles including the original “It’s Too Late Now” (UK #30) and their takes on “Hippy Hippy Shake” (UK #2, US #24), “Good Golly Miss Molly” (UK #11, US #43) and “You’re No Good” (UK #3, US #97).  In addition to sounding a lot like the early Merseybeat days of The Beatles, the band followed a similar path early on also having a residency at Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club (The Beatles once appeared their as their guests) and playing The Star-Club in Germany.  Feelin’ Better : Anthology (1963-1969) is a great new three CD box set compiling everything the band recorded from 1963 to 1969 and includes a massive 103 tracks.  Along with their only UK album “Blue Jeans A’ Swinging”, which is here in both mono and stereo versions, you will find everything from their Canadian only LP “Don’t Make Me Over”, single and EP tracks, commercial test versions of a few songs and German versions of some of their hits.  Even though they weren’t necessarily breaking any ground, the performances and song selection are top notch (don't miss the cover of Louis Armstrong's "Ol' Man Mose") and the whole collection makes for a really enjoyable listen.  Also included is a great booklet with a new interview with original vocalist and lead guitarist Ray Ennis.  

(Strawberry)