16 Golden Classics is interesting enough for the excellent Top 20 hit "Hushabye" and early guest appearances by Paul Simon and Jay Traynor of Jay & the Americans, but this undeservedly obscure vocal quintet had a consistently enchanting sound and several very good songs. The tinkling xylophone and soft harmonies make the Mystics a real find, and the group's ability to put their stamp on well-worn material redeems even the most obvious covers ("A Sunday Kind of Love," "White Cliffs of Dover"). The Mystics' rockers aren't as ...
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16 Golden Classics is interesting enough for the excellent Top 20 hit "Hushabye" and early guest appearances by Paul Simon and Jay Traynor of Jay & the Americans, but this undeservedly obscure vocal quintet had a consistently enchanting sound and several very good songs. The tinkling xylophone and soft harmonies make the Mystics a real find, and the group's ability to put their stamp on well-worn material redeems even the most obvious covers ("A Sunday Kind of Love," "White Cliffs of Dover"). The Mystics' rockers aren't as strong, but they are few in number, and bonus points are awarded for "Star Crossed Lovers," the group's entry into the teen tragedy sweeps. 16 Golden Classics compiles practically everything the group recorded for Laurie Records from 1959-1961 and is a rewarding anthology for serious enthusiasts of white doo wop. ~ Greg Adams, Rovi
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