The
Hollies made their recording debut in 1963, playing energetic but well-scrubbed versions of American R&B classics, but within a few years they would make an international impression with their glorious three-part harmonies, jangling guitars, and clever, catchy pop tunes. Once
the Hollies hit their stride with "Look Through Any Window" and "Bus Stop" in 1966, they enjoyed a string of hits that lasted well into the '70s, and if their profile faded in the United States, they still had a loyal following in the United Kingdom, and continued performing and releasing new material well into the 21st century.
50 at Fifty is a career-spanning three-disc set that spans the entirety of
the Hollies' career as the group celebrates its golden anniversary. Containing 50 tracks, the set opens with R&B chestnuts like "(Ain't That) Just Like Me" and "Searchin'," includes major hits like "Carrie Anne," "On a Carousel," and "Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress)," and concludes with rare live performances and a new song, "Skylarks," recorded specially for this set. While it contains most of
the Hollies' best remembered songs,
50 at Fifty is not just another "greatest-hits" album, but a concise yet thorough overview of the band's long and remarkable journey. ~ Mark Deming