The Medallions Feat. Vernon Green - Speedin' (1996)

The Medallions are usually remembered for inspiring the phrase "pompatous of love," which Steve Miller misheard in the recitation from their hit "The Letter." The flip of that single, "Buick '59," was a "Rocket 69" rip-off with irregular meter and a lot of horsing around that became their other well-remembered hit. The success of "Buick '59" inspired the Medallions to follow up with a slew of car songs like "Volvo '59," "Speedin'," and "Push Button Automobile," most of which feature the group's humorous sound effects and other dramatic flourishes. Lead singer Vernon Green was also a fine balladeer, as heard on his excellent composition "Magic Mountain." Speedin' collects all 12 of the Medallions' Dootone and Dooto singles plus the previously unreleased "Ticket to Love." The lore surrounding "The Letter" will continue to draw curious listeners, but it's arguably the car songs that make Speedin' such a fun and consistent listening experience. ~ Greg Adams