I almost only gave this collection 4 stars, because, as is true of so many bands, the early cuts are brilliant, and the songs become more pedestrian toward the end. But I shouldn't gripe about the generous runnng time of this CD. The Left Banke's first LP, included here in its entirety, is 5 star calibre.

I don't normally review CDs that are out of print, but this collection was really special, as was this group in the short time it was firing on all cylinders. Whoever owns the rights to these songs needs to get them back on the market. It's a shame that no one can discover the timeless beauty of Desiree, Pretty Balerina and, of course Walk Away Renee.

This is a rare CD i've been waiting for in the last few years. It includes the left Banke's most well known songs Such as: Walk away Renee, Pretty Ballerina, Desiree, Myrah. It is unique, and once you listen to it, you can't stop. You will want to listen to it again and again. The cd includes many songs that we never heard on the radio,(She may call you up tonight, I've got something on my mind, Evening Gown, but are all extremely good. Also, there is a good biography in the cover.I definitly recommand this music, it is an excellent investment, but unfortunatly, it is a rare cd to be found. I hope it will be re-edited soon. Enjoy it!...

Isabelle Theoret, Longueuil, Quebec
A 60's fan music

There have been several compilations of TLB but this one is by far the best. Some try to get into later projects such as the Stories who sound nothing like TLB. This band along with very few others came very close to the brilliance of the Fab Four without trying to sound like them. Very unique and well written songs and one of the first to explore classical music tied in with Rock. Just the right amount of Baroque with out going overboard. Strongly recommended for one's Sixties catalog.

This album is a refreshing look back at music in the early 60's...
The two highlight songs are "Walk Away,Rene", the original version, and
"Pretty Ballerina", another great song.. all the songs are worth listening to... one thing I would like to add.. don't get ripped off for $60+ dollars.. this album is available for download for $10.66.. after which you can burn it to a cd..

As a genuine baby boomer who heard The Left Banke's 1st album in 1967, I'm pleased as punch that their music has stood the test of time. I could wax nostalgic forever here, but, instead I'll point you younger folks to the original "emo" band, if there ever was one. I still love "Pretty Ballerina" after all these years.

Back in '67, there were no websites, of course, only fan clubs and albums. So, while you listened to great music, you had no idea that the band behind it was self-destructing because of drugs, alcohol, egos, and just plain weirdness.

Bass player Tom Finn introduced each of the members of the Banke in the beginning, and off they went, recording in Mike Brown's father's studio, what would be "Pretty Ballerina", "Walk Away Renee" and other songs from the 1st album in 1965-66. Michael's infatuation with Renee, a friend of the band, led to his composing the two hits, plus "She May Call You Up Tonight". The harpsichord, strings and Baroque arrangements became the band's musical trademark, but unfortunately, musical trends can only last so long.

After Michael left the band, having "pulled a Brian Wilson", (in his words), he went through a few band changes, only to find they did not fit his musical style, until he came to Montage. Only then, was he able to continue in the style of the Left Banke (well, think of Montage as the "second" Left Banke).

Meanwhile, the other original members of the Banke tried to oontinue, with "Left Banke, Too". This album pointed the way to bands such as Yes, and ELP, but they were more influenced by the Kinks ("Bryant Hotel", "Goodbye, Holly").

So, both Michael and the original band, left without each other, floundered, occasionally getting back together for experiments like "Desiree".

There's more that you can find out about this group, if you search the web. I've found a great site which has EVERYTHING you could want about them, you'll find it, I'm sure.

I'm so glad that Amazon has decided to make mp3's of their music available. The prices of the used CDs (and I already own "And Finally..") are shocking.