Gently Down Your Stream

Originally released in 1973, this set of both strong and weak numbers gets a rebirth on CD. The title comes from a line in "Row Your Boat," their most popular recording, a would-be hit that was loved everywhere it got played; but this complex, gentle floater with the breathtaking hook never got the saturated amount of play needed for serious chart action. "You're My Desire" is a harmony workout and Northern soul favorite. The good stuff includes two compositions by Dana Middleton and Jeffrey Smith -- "Why Did I Go" and "Do You Really Love Me" -- as well as Erwin Cochran's "Can't Get Strung Out." ~ Andrew Hamilton