Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Those who read Cross Rhythms' recent article on the fondly remembered Selah Jubilee Singers will know that the secular group the Larks were a kind of spinoff of that group and hit big in the early '50s with "My Reverie". You'll find their big hit here and if you like the wistful sound of doowop then this haunting melody (penned by Debusey, no less!), doomy harmonies and delicious, cool lead from Eugene Mumford will definitely hit the spot. The Larks were not a one trick pony though and turned in everything from blues songs ("Eyesight To The Blind" and "I Ain't Fattening Frogs For Snakes" both featuring Alan Bunn who later found a bit of success as Tarheel Slim) and covers of old standards ("Margie") plus the occasional nod back to their gospel roots ("Honey In The Rock"). This particular compilation issued in 1999 is largely concerned with the Larks' up-tempo jump numbers rather than their ballads, but it's still a fascinating look at a bunch of '50s harmonisers who really knew how to deliver.

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