Album Review: Turn On Those Lights Please She's Gone by The BlendTones
Released in 1961, Turn On Those Lights Please She's Gone by The BlendTones is a hidden gem from the golden era of American rock and roll. With its roots firmly planted in the vibrant soil of Rock & Roll and Doo Wop, this album might not have set the charts ablaze back in the day, but it carries a charm that still resonates with listeners who stumble upon it today. Issued under Don-El Records and Clifton Records, the record benefits greatly from Bill Massey’s arrangement, which adds a layer of sophistication to the raw energy of the tracks.
The opening track, "She's Gone," grabs your attention right away. It’s one of those songs that feels like a gut punch wrapped in melody. The vocals are heartfelt—almost desperate—with harmonies so tight they could hold water. There’s something about the way the lead singer delivers the line “She’s gone, she won’t be back” that sticks with you long after the needle lifts off the record. You can practically hear the ache in his voice, and honestly? It’s kinda hard not to feel it too. This isn’t just another breakup song; it’s an emotional rollercoaster set to a toe-tapping beat.
Another standout is "(Turn On Those) Lights, Please." If you’re into catchy hooks, this one will reel you in quick. The rhythm has a bounce to it that makes you wanna tap your foot or maybe even bust out some awkward kitchen dancing (no judgment here). What really stands out, though, is how seamlessly the band blends doo-wop harmonies with a driving rock & roll groove. It’s upbeat yet tinged with melancholy—a perfect storm of sound that keeps you coming back for more.
Listening to this album feels like stepping into a time machine, except instead of landing in some flashy sci-fi future, you end up at a sock hop in small-town America circa 1961. Sure, the production values aren’t what we’re used to these days, but there’s a raw authenticity here that modern music often lacks. The BlendTones may not have been household names, but their passion shines through every note.
Here’s the thing: albums like this remind us why music matters. They weren’t trying to reinvent the wheel—they were just telling stories and making people move. And honestly, isn’t that enough? In a world full of overproduced beats and auto-tuned vocals, Turn On Those Lights Please She's Gone serves as a refreshing reminder of simpler times. Plus, let’s be real—it’s got a title quirky enough to make you chuckle every time you say it aloud. Try saying it five times fast. Go ahead, I’ll wait.
