Echoes of the Originals: The Sensational Ink Spots on Crown Records

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Crown Records, a name that conjures up images of cheap vinyl and the notorious Bihari brothers, presents us with an album that is as much an echo of a legendary past as it is a symbol of the era's recording industry paradoxes. "More Ink Spots" features the vocal stylings of Charlie Owen's ensemble, dubbed an "Imposter" group for their lack of original Ink Spots members. Yet, their sound is undeniably reminiscent of the classic harmonies that once captivated audiences worldwide.

The album cover for "More Ink Spots" is a vibrant display, with the group, dressed to the nines, frozen mid-performance against a striking red backdrop. Their joyous expressions and dynamic postures leap from the jacket, inviting listeners to experience the music beyond the vinyl. The simplicity of the design, with bold lettering and a clear, striking photograph, reflects the straightforward approach of Crown Records – to deliver music in its most accessible form.

The tracklist, a melange of beloved standards and nostalgic tunes, is brought to life by the distinct timbres of George Bledsoe (baritone vocals), John Dix (bass vocals), Charlie Owens (lead vocals), and Stanley Morgan (2nd tenor). From the ethereal "Stardust" to the comforting strains of "Home On The Range" and the whimsical "Clementine," each song is a thread in the tapestry of American music heritage.

Crown Records, under the Bihari brothers, became a juggernaut in the budget record industry from 1957 to 1972, releasing approximately 740 albums. While often criticized, their business practices reflect a certain cunning emblematic of the music industry's more shadowed corners. These albums, like the one you may serendipitously uncover in a thrift store bin, hold stories of a bygone era, of artists whose voices resonated through less-than-ideal circumstances.

"More Ink Spots" stands as a testament to the complex legacy of Crown Records – a blend of exploitation and exposure. Like many from the Crown catalog, this album might have been sold cheap, but the memories it revokes are rich and enduring.

As you dust off this album and let the needle drop, you're not just listening to a forgotten group trying to capture the magic of the original Ink Spots. You're uncovering a piece of history, one that is intertwined with the struggle, survival, and spirit of the music that defines an era. Listen here, and let the past come alive once more.
Tracklist:

A1 Stardust
A2 Home On The Range
A3 Clementine
A4 East Side West Side
B1 I'll Never Smile Again
B2 Cuddle Up A Little Closer
B3 Honeymoon
B4 My Wild Irish Side