Very Best of (CD)

Far from being a "one hit wonder" group, the Kingsmen had more than their share of hit records and charting albums to go with it. This 18-track collection brings together all the tunes that enhance and extend their reputation as one of the all-time great party bands. Of course, "Louie Louie" is here, but so is its demonic flip, "Haunted Castle" along with "Jolly Green Giant," "Money," "Long Green," "Little Latin Lupe Lu" and "The Climb," chart entries all. Also along for the ride are album tracks like "Shake a Tail Feather," "Do You Love Me?," "Shout," "Twist and Shout" and "Killer Joe," making a strong case for the group as the ultimate in early to mid-'60s dance floor mania. Though other greatest hit packages exist on the band (and the original albums as well), this one does the best job of giving the full picture of what they really did and the transfers sound absolutely wonderful. Start your collection with this one. ~ All Music Guide, All Music Guide