Radio Gold, Vol. 5

For the fifth volume in 's series (which collects American and tunes that hit the British charts in the late '50s and early '60s), compiler has focused on lighter material rather than the more rambunctious sides that dominated earlier volumes. There are a few potent rockers on board -- most notably ' -- but the presence of hits from , , and make it clear is aiming for a different focus with this disc, and the -era hits of clearly lean to the less-threatening end of the musical spectrum. But if this collection isn't much on , it's still a fun listen, full of half-remembered hits that made their way across the airwaves many years ago, and there are a few surprises along the way, including ' version of (featuring a young !), 's futile attempt at something resembling teen-friendly ( ), and the brassy swing of The liner notes by are excellent, and the mastering by sounds crisp and snappy throughout. Fine accompaniment for your next trip to the malt shop or Inspiration Point, and it sounds a lot better than your old 45s. ~ Mark Deming