THE PREMIERS
Farmer John Live! (Collector's Choice)
Reviewed by Alan Wright

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The Premiers were a Chicano garage band from Los Angeles who scored a hit in 1964 with a revved-up version of Don & Dewey's "Farmer John." By "Louie Louie-izing" the tune, and adding cheers and screams courtesy of the all-girl Chevelles Car Club, they created an infectious dance party anthem. Their sole long-player was supposedly cut "live at The Rhythm Room in Fullerton," but was in fact cut live in the studio like the "Farmer John" single, with friends brought in to give it a "party atmosphere." And a party it is! At times, the crowd noise almost overpowers the band, what with all the yelling and clapping along, but it's a whole lot of fun as the hi-energy band storms through R&B and '50s Doo Wop covers like "Don't You Just Know It," "Annie Oakley," Feel Like Dancing," and "Mary Ann." This CD reissue is culled from the original stereo masters, so the sound is really fab, and rock scribe Richie Unterberger penned some detailed liner notes about the band and the recording. Since it's a pretty short play - about half an hour - it's a shame they didn't toss on any of their post LP singles, especially their 1966 garage cruncher "Get On This Plane," produced by Standells member Larry Tamblyn.

© 2004 - Alan Wright