The sound of Philadelphia begins with these recordings. Grand Records was a very important label in the history of R&B harmony. Between 1953 and 1956, the label set the tone for the early doo wop group sound, featuring mournful ballads loaded with great harmonies and soaring tenor leads. This 22-track set brings together jewels from the Marquees (whose kickoff track, "The Rain," is worth the price of admission alone), the Cherokees, the Castelles, the Belltones, the Angels, the Dreamers, the Carter Rays, and the Castroes. Another winner in this great series. ~ Cub Koda, All Music Guide
