The prototype for what has developed into a twenty-five year career that continues to grow in popularity, this initial 1971 recording hints at the dominion the King's Singers have over an astonishing variety of material. Four tracks are a cappella, the rest accompanied by the Gordon Langford Trio (Langford also arranged five of the songs). Traditionals, such as 'Shenandoah, 'Cherry Ripe' and 'Scarborough Fair' are side-by-side with Gershwin's 'Summertime' and Bacharach's 'Wives and Lovers.' Stylistically, the King's Singers combine formal classical knowledge with the immaculate blend of a barbershop chorus and the personality of English music hall performers appearing on the 'Old Grey Whistle Test.' No wonder they've stood the test of time!