Michelle De Ann by The Newbeats: A Hidden Gem That Still Kicks
Let’s cut to the chase—1968 wasn’t just about Woodstock prep and bell-bottoms; it was also the year The Newbeats dropped their groovy little nugget, Michelle De Ann. Released under Hickory Records with Wesley Rose pulling producer strings, this album is a delightful mix of Pop Rock and Garage Rock vibes. It’s like someone took a bubblegum machine, shook it up, and out popped tunes that stick in your brain like gum on a hot sidewalk.
Now, I gotta say, this record doesn’t reinvent rock ‘n’ roll—but does it need to? Tracks like “I’ve Been A Long Time Loving You” hit you with that sweet spot between earnestness and swagger. It’s got hooks sharp enough to snag your attention but loose enough to let you sway along. Imagine cruising down some dusty Midwestern highway with the windows down—this song would blast outta the radio, making even the cornfields feel alive.
Then there’s the title track, “Michelle De Ann.” Oh man, this one sticks for all the right reasons. It’s not trying too hard, just rolling along with its jangly guitars and heartfelt lyrics. You can almost picture Wesley Rose nodding approvingly in the studio while these guys laid it down. Something about the melody feels nostalgic, like an old Polaroid photo you didn’t know you’d cherish until years later. Plus, who wouldn’t want a tune named after them? Michelle De Ann—if she exists—is probably living her best life somewhere because how could she not?
Sure, the production has that lo-fi charm typical of late-'60s US rock—it’s raw, unpolished, and kinda endearing. But don’t get me wrong; it ain’t perfect. Some parts sound like they were recorded in someone’s garage (oh wait…). Yet somehow, that adds to the magic. It’s real. No fancy autotune or overproduced nonsense here—just good ol’ American grit wrapped in catchy riffs.
Reflecting on this album now, it makes me wonder: where are all the bands like The Newbeats today? Like, seriously. We’ve got algorithms spitting out playlists, but nothing beats stumbling across a hidden gem like this. And hey, if nothing else, listening to Michelle De Ann reminds you that sometimes simplicity wins. Or maybe it just reminds you to Google whether Michelle De Ann is a real person. Either way, worth it.
So grab a copy if you ever find one at a thrift store—it’ll pair nicely with your vinyl collection and your questionable taste in music.
