The Studio Albums 1967-1968
As any diehard Bee Gees fan knows--and really, who else is going to splurge for this lavish reissue of the group's first three internationally released albums?--the brothers Gibb had a long and relatively prosperous career as singer-songwriters before 1975'sMain Courseexposed them as blue-eyed, falsetto-singing soulmen withSaturday Night Feverdancefloor aspirations. This sumptuous six-disc box kicks off an extensive reissue program of the band's previously neglected back catalog in commanding fashion. In addition to the original tunes in both stereo and mono, a treasure trove of rarities is unearthed on the second CD devoted to each album. The Bee Gees' often innovative use of orchestration, introduced onBee Gees 1st's opening "Turn of the Century" and "Holiday," continues through 1968'sHorizontalandIdea. The remastering of the nearly 40-year-old tapes is astonishing; every chime, tambourine slap, violin pluck, and, especially, vocal harmony is distinct, uncovering the astounding beauty and detail of this meticulously constructed pop. Special note should be taken of brother Maurice's innovative McCartneyesque bass lines--most prominent in "I've Gotta Get a Message to You". Most impressive is the quality of the abundant alternate takes, B-sides, Christmas songs, non-album singles (such as the exquisite "Words"), and even soft drink commercials that have been painstakingly researched and dusted off. Add rare photos along with detailed liner notes that include interviews with Barry and Robin for a definitive representation of the Bee Gees' early days. To paraphrase an oldNew York Timesslogan, you may not listen to it all, but it's nice to know it's all there.--Hal Horowitz