Formed in 1975, the Side Street Ramblers went through an epic journey to winning the SPEBSQSA Quartet Gold in 1983, having to replace their lead singer three times and such hurdles as a case of the flu that turned their bass into a tenor. But Keith Houts, tenor, Brian Beck, lead, Dennis Malone, baritone, and Earl Hagn, bass, were nothing if not focused and persistent, as the many costume changes in the colorful liner notes show. With the trophy in hand, the group went on to perform in 34 states and 12 foreign countries and become one of the best-loved barbershop groups of all time. "Encore" is a 2-CD set, which includes 30 great SSR classics. The guys are equally adept at cracking us up, tugging on our heartstrings or knocking us back in our seats with a ringing barbershop chord. Hard to pick favorites among the 30, as each is a gem, but here goes: "Only Yesterday," "Love to Meet That Old Sweetheart," "My Blue Heaven," "I Wonder What's Become of Sally," "The Way We Were," "Hello Broadway," "Let Me Call You Sweetheart," "Short People," "1927 Kansas City," "Smile Medley," "Proud to Be an American," "Bye Bye, Blackbird" and "All of Me." Now, that's entertainment. Encore! |
