The Arbors - The Very Best Of The Arbors (1998)

This is an astonishing collection of material, detailing the evolution of one of the more undeservedly overlooked vocal groups of the 1960s. Starting with their first single of consequence ("A Symphony for Susan") and ending with their covers of the Doors' "Touch Me," Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone," and Bobbie Gentry's "Okalona River Bottom Band," it's a phantasmagoric journey through the changes that overtook pop music in the 1960s. The early sides (apart from "Symphony for Susan," which is unique) are almost '50s throwbacks, whereas the final numbers are played by rock musicians and sung with a robust abandon that the group in early years might have rejected. The group's undeservedly ignored "Valley of the Dolls" and such rarities as the Gentry number and the exquisite ballad "Julie I Tried" are included along with their chart successes, making this a good CD for collectors as well as those who simply appreciate great singing and dazzling harmonies.