The 8th May 2020 marks the 75th Anniversary of VE Day – Victory In Europe Day – when the Allied forces formally accepted the unconditional surrender of the armed forces of Nazi Germany, signalling the end of the war in Europe. It was an emotional and momentous day for the populations of all the countries which had committed their armed forces, often young men who had been conscripted from their civilian life to risk their lives in the cause of what was rightly seen as a crucial fight for freedom. One of things which helped those forces, and their loved ones at home, was the popular music of the time, ranging from rousing patriotic songs to sentimental ballads of longing, which articulated the agony of separation and potential loss.

This set brings together hit recordings from the USA and UK which were part of that soundtrack to the war effort, and most of which were big chart hits in the USA (the UK did not yet have a records sales chart). From emotional classics like Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again” and “White Cliffs Of Dover” through the swing hits of Glen Miller which kept people dancing through the dark times, to the songs of longing and the rousing exhortations of patriotic anthems, it captures the unique spirit of the times. It closes with the announcements of the victory by British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and U.S. President Harry S. Truman. Even for those who were not around at the time it’s an evocative souvenir to commemorate a key moment in modern history.

REVIEWS

“There have been no shortage of these commemorative collections over the years, celebrating various anniversaries, but this is very varied and thoughtful issue, with a helpful track commentary to add to the enjoyment.”  –  Gerry Stonestreet (In Tune Issue 342)