Best Of The Kingston Trio

The first-ever compilation of the Kingston Trio’s work was also one of the better of numerous assemblies of their hits and notable songs that have appeared across the decades. Originally a 12-song LP (but reissued as a ten-song platter in 1980), the content ranges across the group’s history, not in strict chronological order, but encompassing the highlights of both the original trio (Dave Guard/Nick Reynolds/Bob Shane) and the second lineup (with John Stewart replacing Guard). Starting with “Tom Dooley,” the material takes us right up to “Where Have All The Flowers Gone” – which was sort of a reestablishing hit for the group early in 1962 – and even finds room for the group original “Take Her Out of Pity.” What’s here may not be as loud as some of the rock & roll that more people remember from the years 1958-1962, but it tells us just as much about what was on the mind of white, middle-class America in that era. And it’s still great listening and a fine introduction to the group, beautifully understated where it needs to be and boisterous and fun at the right moments.