Disc one packs such a wallop, did one guy do all these songs?
Tommy James – 40 Years – The Complete Singles Collection (Collectors Choice) – CD review – This two-disc set marks the first time that Tommy James’ entire career has been summarized in one collection. “40 Years: The Complete Singles Collection” opens with his very first hit, “Hanky Panky” from 1966 and ends with a string of Adult Contemporary hits from 40 years later.
Disc one focuses on Tommy’s hit-making years and the string of shining moments is an impressive one: “I Think We’re Alone Now,” “Mony Mony,” “Crimson & Clover,” “Mirage,” “Sweet Cherry Wine,” and “Crystal Blue Persuasion” are all timeless classics. One thing that sets this anthology a part from other collections is that, for the first time, the original, mono single versions were used. These were the mixes that were played on AM radio at the time and the ones that the kids of the Sixties bought up on record. Even though disc two chronicles Tommy’s decent into cult artist, the quality of the material remains surprisingly strong. — Tony Peters