Now & Then - THE CARPENTERS***

Sing/This Masquerade/Heather/Jambalaya/I Can't Make Music/Yesterday Once More/Fun Fun Fun - The End Of The World-Da Doo Ron Ron-Deadman's Curve-Johnny Angel-The Night Has A Thousand Eyes-Our Day Will Come-One Fine Day (Medley)/Yesterday Once More (Reprise)

At the time of release of Now & Then The Carpenters were at the peak of their popularity. However, this album cannot be recommended as a large chunk consists of sixties covers. Nevertheless it features two fine top three singles, Yesterday Once More and Sing. (US:2 UK:2)

“The Carpenters appear to be experts at taking out all the energy from these old classics. Take a listen to the original Da Doo Ron Ron by The Crystals or One Fine Day by The Chiffons, then listen to this; in both cases, it will be obvious what a dirge these covers are.”

“The Carpenters and their impeccable musical talent were truly underrated and much ignored by snobbish fans during the 1970s. However, their music has stood the test of time and this LP is the perfect example of their pop perfection. The musical arrangements provided by Richard are mind blowing and the vocal styling of Karen is timeless, honest and has become classic.”

“Richard's instinct for what makes a hit song was right on with Sing, a song originally written for the children's programme Sesame Street. The other tracks that make up side one show not only how varied Richard and Karen's taste in music was, but also how versatile they were as artists. What comes through is that every song feels right. Karen's voice just glides from one genre to the next, all the while carried by Richard's arrangements which are perfect for each song. However, whilst I love Yesterday Once More, which is, regrettably the only Carpenter penned tune on this set, the rest of side two has always been a disappointment.”

“It is basically a collection of 60s covers performed by The Carpenters, all linked together by some wacky west coast DJ. It is fun and Karen's voice suits the tunes they take on. Throw in a few originals and you have a great pop album.”

“It shows off the talents of The Carpenters superbly. There are so many great songs and the musical arrangements are so tasteful. The suite of pieces originally put together for the second side, beginning and ending with Yesterday Once More, includes some of the best interpretations of 60s songs you are likely to hear.”