Customer Reviews

Wayne Fontana & the Mindbenders

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This CD release will be of interest to fans of British 60's beat
music. The first album contained here (released as 'The Game of Love' in the US), has long been out of print here in the States and never been reissued on CD. I have the original mono record, which I haven't listened to in years. Music Hounds' Rock Album Guide (1998) rates this album as 'worth searching for' and I agree. The versatility of Wayne's Fontana vocals is apparent, especially on 'Jaguar and Thunderbird' and 'Cops and Robbers'. It's easy to see why he left to pursue a solo career - he's an excellent vocalist. A lot of energy on this album - I highly recommend it.

Note: the U.S. release is nearly identical with the UK release,
but with 'Where Have You Been?' replaced by 'The Game of Love'
and Side Two of the UK release becoming Side One of the US
release and vice versa.

The bonus track on this album, 'Um, Um, Um, Um, Um', is I think
a fine beat group cover of the classic Major Lance song.

The second album on this CD 'It's Wayne Fontana & the Mindbenders' was never released here in the States, so it may
be of more interest to collectors. However, it's not as
energetic/good as their debut (maybe that's why it never came out
in the States!). Highlights include 'It's Just A Little Bit Too Late', 'I Remember Love' (written by Van McCoy), and the Mindbender's original 'Long Time Comin''. Two of the
Mindbenders contribute vocals, including Eric Stewart's vocal debut - 'I'm Your Hoochie Coochie Man'. I prefer the Hollies'
version of 'Honey and Wine' ('Best of the Hollies EP's') over
the one found here.

The bonus track on this album, 'The Game of Love' is of course,
the standout track (and a classic).

For those who like the Wayne Fontana greatest hits compilations,
you may want to give this one a try.