Various 'Unearthed Merseybeat Vol 2 The Golden Age 1961 - 1966' CD-027

Released: Nov 2004, CD-Download

The story of Merseybeat continues, focusing on its golden years from the early to mid 1960's. These were the days when the sound of Merseybeat ruled the world, dominating the charts with hits on both sides of the Atlantic when anyone with a lovable Scouse accent could do no wrong. Some of the bands featured on this album became household names, whilst others completely disappeared - what they all have in common is that they all played an important part in popular music as we know it today. Most were influenced by the Rock 'n' Roll music of the mid to late 1950's America. Many bands here are covering Rock 'n' Roll standards i.e Gerry and The Pacemakers 'Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin', and The Four Just Men 'La Bamba' . Other bands were inspired by Country Music which has always been popular in the North West of England i.e Denny Seyton and The Sabres 'Big River' ( In 1970 John Lennon said ' I heard country and western before I heard rock 'n' roll ). Some musicians took these influences and were inspired to write their own songs ( such as Jimmy Campbell of The Kirkbys and Gerry Marsden ). All these rarities have never been released.Liverpool has always been a City awash with musical talent and we can't underestimate the influences of these Merseybeat pioneers.