The Hollies

For Certain Because (EMI ’66) Rating: A-
Most people remember The Hollies as a very successful singles band from the British Invasion (and for being the first band of Graham Nash), but as is often the case with so-called "singles artists," The Hollies had some albums that are well worth getting. For Certain Because certainly falls into that category, as its 12 songs are uncommonly strong, with only a single weak link ("Crusader"). Though known as a simple pop band, The Hollies' clever songwriting smarts are readily apparent throughout, as they add more than enough twists to their formula to keep things sounding fresh and interesting. For example, the stellar first ("What's Wrong With The Way I Live") and last ("Stop Stop Stop," a considerable hit) songs are boosted by creative banjo playing, mysterious Spanish guitar lines lift the wonderfully melodic and exotic "Tell Me To My Face," and a carnival-esque intro and outro provides a playful contrast to the somber psychedelia of the rest of "Clown." A carnival-esque atmosphere also enhances "High Class" (about a rich girl slumming it, 30 years before "Common People"!), "What Went Wrong" has an almost symphonic ambiance, and jaunty harmonica hooks help make "It's You" and "Don't Even Think About Changing" enjoyably jaunty rockers. Elsewhere, chiming guitars and the band's brilliantly high-pitched harmonies are the main attraction of songs such as "Pay You Back With Interest" (love those affectations in the vocals), "Suspicious Look In Your Eyes," and "Peculiar Situation," while quotable lyrics like "what's wrong with the way I live, the way I use my time, people should live their lives, leaving me to mine" and "ain't this a peculiar situation, we're lovers but we don't make love" not only hold up, but they belie the band's "slight" or "lightweight" reputation. Really, any complaints I have about this album are relatively minor, such as the fact that some of the songs sound a little similar, the album doesn't do anything The Beatles weren't doing much better at around the same time (but you could say that about almost every other band), and it ends all too abruptly. Still, it wouldn't be wrong to call this album a "lost gem," and it's certainly recommended along with one of their essential "greatest hits" packages and maybe another original album or two (I hear Butterfly is really good). Still not convinced? Then go to Freddie's Home Page and listen for yourself (for free!).

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