Buddy Holly

iTunes Review

Buddy Holly released two albums in his short lifetime. Due to contractual reasons – and dubious marketing ideas – Holly’s first album was credited as a band record with the Crickets whereas this self-titled album inferred a solo project. However, it’s the same ingredients that make this a worthy follow-up to the Crickets’ debut. Again, Holly came through with original songs of clean, clear purpose that succinctly delivered pop hooks, powerful ensemble playing and strong, supportive vocal arrangements. “Peggy Sue” became the album’s runaway hit, but tunes such as “I’m Gonna Love You Too,” “Listen to Me,” “Words of Love,” “Everyday” and “Rave On” established Holly as a serious “album” artist at a time when albums were not the artistic forum they became for future generations. Holly also stood as a great interpreter, covering the contemporary rock n’ roll hits of the era (“Ready Teddy,” “(You’re So Square) Baby I Don’t Care”) with his own austere style. There are clever touches throughout. The multitude of guitar tones on “Peggy Sue,” the roller-rink organ on “Valley of Tears,” the hiccup vocals and piano tinkling of “Mailman, Bring Me No More Blues” define the era.