"an independent view"
by: Linda Fryer, BMI,CLA ©5/2001

What can be said about the Bellamy Brothers that hasn't already been said a thousand times?? They're talented musicians. They're great performers. They have an uncanny ability to write or choose JUST the right songs to record. They're unpretentious. They're survivors! They're dependable to a fault, and would never, EVER disappoint their fans--old and new! More?? Ok. I can add more, 'cause I've been listening to Volume 1 of two, "The 25 Year Collection" for a week or so now, and my opinion of their work has not waned. If anything, its gotten stronger!

To be honest, (and I always AM) I hadn't really heard much from the Bellamys for awhile. No big surprise, though, with radio the way it is today. But when I did happen to hear one of their songs over the airwaves, I was again reminded of how much I've always enjoyed their music. I mean, if you're really a fan of country music, the Bellamy Brothers are on your list of favorites!

I was delighted to receive this newest CD, and honored to be given the opportunity to review it for all the music fans out there. And what an album it is!! From beginning--"Let Your Love Flow" (Larry Williams)--to end "Redneck Girl" (D. Bellamy), its just nothing but GREAT music! And there's no shortage of it, either! There are 20 tracks to hold your attention and your ear, for over an hour!

And it's a great reminder of just who it was that brought you the unforgettable (and OFTEN quoted) "If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body, Would you hold it against me" (D.Bellamy), which, by the way, was recorded LIVE in Reno on this CD! And remember "Sugar Daddy" (D.Bellamy)? What a smoooth song! And I know you'll want to get up and dance to the more recent hit tune "Cowboy Beat" (D.Bellamy/John Beland). Hmmmmmmmm..now remind me..how many hits have they had?? One, two?.Seven, Ten??.more you say?? Twelve? Fifteen? Okok, let's not try to count them. Let's just say there are more than enough to fill a 2-CD set of "greatest hits". This, "The 25 Year Collection", is being released one at a time. (personally, I think it's just a way to drive us crazy, waiting for the second one!) But I'm sure there's a method to this madness. Besides, I haven't yet gotten tired of
Volume 1, so I guess I can stand the wait, if you can. But, hey guys, don't make us wait TOO long! Bellamy Brothers fans (and there are LOTS of them) are not to be toyed with! And I've already saved a special slot in my collection rack for 2 discs! Don't MAKE me come down there and beg! (yes, I've been known to beg, and it ain't pretty)

Fellow fans of this great team called the Bellamy Brothers ( www.bellamybrothers.com ) , do NOT let this collection get away from you, or you'll be kickin' yourself for eternity! Or, at least for as long as it takes for them to record still another one for us! ..As always, I'm honored to have MY copy.and as always.this has been ....