One Dozen Berrys

Description

"One Dozen Berrys" by Chuck Berry, originally released in 1958. With the exception of five songs, all tracks had already been released as 45 RPM singles. It includes the hit singles "Sweet Little Sixteen" and "Rock & Roll Music." The slow instrumental "Blue Feeling" reflects the blues sound Berry had at the time, while "How You've Changed" features him in a slow ballad, singing in a style closer to Nat "King" Cole than any rock & roller of the era; and "La Jaunda" showcases his love for Latin music. "Rocking at the Philharmonic" is a swirling guitar and piano workout, a collection of the sounds behind those hit singles, and a killer showcase not only for Berry but also for Lafayette Leake on the ivories, and a decent showcase for Willie Dixon's bass playing. "Oh Baby Doll" is a return to the rhythm of "Maybellene," this time with more sensual (in a bluesy sense) lyrics than joyful, although they stand out amid the hammered rhythm and Berry's crunchy, angular guitar solo. On this LP, there are two bonus tracks: "The Downbound Train" and "You Can't Catch Me."