A distant six months after the hit single "I Like It Like That", this album's was released in late 1965. Perhaps that's why it seemd like an "afterthought album" to some, and didn't chart that well, but actaully the DC5 had their own success to blame! The movie "Catch Us If You Can" ("Having a Wild Weekend" in the USA), and it's title cut smash hit, came out in August 1965, and served to interrupt the normal commercial flow concerning "I Like It Like That". But tho' delayed, this album was worth the wait. Let me mention another radio phenomenon of late 1965: Many radio stations were trimming their play-lists from the 40-60 song peak of 1964 to 30-40 songs, and then adopting the catch phrase "All-American Radio". In this format, the British Invasion bands new releases weren't being automatically added to playlists as before. The competition was suddenly tougher, but the Dave Clark Five were up to the challenge. Many many more hits would follow. Meanwhile, this album, "I Like It Like That" provided a showcase for the talents of each individual member of the group. The songs:
I LIKE IT LIKE THAT - A raw, leathery rendition of the Chris Kenner standard, Mike Smith rips out more great new vocals in a song that totally rocks. PUMPING - Written by Dave and Dennis, this thumping instrumental has Denny set aside his sax in favor of the harmonica. I NEED LOVE - A "garage band" thriller, (and one of their longest songs ever at 3:40), this song was featured in a shorter form as a "stage performance" in their 1967 British TV Special "Hold On". Mike again shows his vocal versatility with an urgent plea for love - Now!. MAYBE IT'S YOU - Lenny Davidson co-wrote this one, and has some fun on the guitar with a new, harder fuzz-tone effect, with Dave's ever-present beat moving the song urgently along. THAT'S HOW LONG OUR LOVE WILL LAST - My personal favorite for a special reason: I sang this song for the processional in my wedding! The song showcases the harmonic blending of the five: very nice! A LITTLE BIT OF LOVE - Mike and Lenny combine on vocals. This rock-ballad is reminicent of early 60s American pop music, with the "big orchestra" feel at the finish. Flip it over: (unless it's a CD!) -
I'LL BE YOURS MY LOVE - The b-side of the DC5's unique #1 hit "Over And Over", this one showcases the deep emotional side of Mike Smith. PLEASE LOVE ME - Another plea for love, with many tempo changes, but a softer feel than "I Need Love". GOODBYE MY FRIENDS - A growing-up-type-song, perfect for its time with young audiences. Many of us have had to change our circle of friends (perhaps they took us for granted, whatever), and so a nice message-song here. I AM ON MY OWN - The music is presumably all Lenny Davidson, at his rare country best. Not one of my favorites, but a real change of pace, especially at this point in time. SHE'S A LOVING GIRL - A "guy-type" song that Mike Smith obviously has a lot of fun rocking with. Keep your upper lip curled in an Elvis-sneer as you sing along! A refreshing cut. YOU KNOW YOU'RE LYING - Featuring Mike Smith's piano, and his one-of-a-kind great voice. This up-tempo song fits perfectly to close the album.
Overall, "I Like It Like That" is a FUN album to listen to, again and again. The DC5 prove they can rock and roll with the very best of the mid-60s, and still have their music hold its power even today! - Written by Lee Weiss, 7/99. You can e-mail comments to Lee at leej991@home.com .....