Johnny Maestro and The Crests were a groundbreaking Doo-wop outfit, far ahead of their time. With their effortless harmonies, and the beautiful tone of Maestro’s voice, the group enjoyed chart success in the1950s.

One of the very first racially mixed vocal groups, their struggles to reach audiences across America signalled the sign of the times. Still racially divided, American audiences, particularly in the Southern states, found it difficult to take them to their hearts, not least of all because the conservative media organisations would not feature them on television programmes.

But talent will always find a way, and the group’s loyal fans ensured that they would not remain a footnote in the annals of popular music.

This fine collection of the group’s early to mid-fifties singles demonstrates why aficionados of Doo-wop hold them in such high regard to this day.

TRACKS

Side A
1    Sweetest One
2    My Juanita
3    Pretty Little Angel
4    Sixteen Candles
5    Beside You
6    Six Nights A Week
7    Flower Of Love
8    The Angels Listened In
9    A Year Ago Tonight

Side B
1    Step By Step
2    Trouble In Paradise
3    Journey Of Love
4    Isn't It Amazing
5    I'll Remember (In The Still Of The Night)
6    Say It Isn't So
7    Model Girl
8    What A Surprise
9    Little Miracles