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The word 'underrated' gets bandied about in music journal-
ism almost as much as something being the work of 'genius.'
Quite frequently neither tag is correctly applied to the art at
hand. Still, with everyone vying for attention (or sympathy),
hyperbole wins out every time. So, it is with heavy heart and
cap in hand that I share with you a little history on a band
called Herman’s Hermits, who I think may be the most un-
derrated pop combo of the 1960s.
While many of their similarly chartbusting and culturally un-
cool contemporaries have received a retroactive critical
reappraisal, this Manchester mob have never truly “had their
day.” This collection is perhaps the most comprehensive
study of the Hermits’ recorded work and is but a glimpse at
the sheer volume of great tracks they made during six very
hectic years. It is undoubtedly a testament to their unique
chemistry with producer Mickie Most that they created so
many great and refreshingly unpretentious discs.
HERMAN’S HERMITS
PAGE
6
50th ANNIVERSARY ANTHOLOGY
A Spot of
‘Ermits ‘Istory
PREVIEW