The Bell Notes, "That's Right" c/w "Betty Dear," Time 1013 (rel. 7/1959)

The Bell Notes created an all-time classic with their crude, powerful rocker “I’ve Had It.” This 1958 Time Records single continues to receive cover versions. Its message of teen frustration reaches across the decades; its killer guitar riff and “la la la la” refrain make it one of the freshest-sounding ‘oldies’ of the era.

Since Time Records wrote a brief biography of the group for the back of their 1959 EP release, I’ll let them do the talking here:

Today we’ll hear their third Time single—a direct sequel to “I’ve Had It” that shows a creative way to do a follow-up without it being a carbon copy of the hit. Ray Ceroni’s unique guitar style kicks things off with a rollicking series of chords. I love his approach to his instrument; it’s tough, hard-hitting and effective.

“That’s Right” may have been inspired by the early Elvis record “You’re Right, I’m Left, She’s Gone,” but it uses the sound of urban rock ‘n’ roll—a hard-edged take on The Everly Brothers’ harmony style—to relate its story of a skeptical guy who wards off a girl at first but is won over by record’s end.

This recording has only what it needs to succeed, and its big, simple sound is mighty appealing to these ears.

Get with it!

“Betty Dear” suggests a slushy ballad. Not from this lot! It’s a tad less frantic but still rocks well. This is a more Everly Brothers-sounding song but with the Lawn Guyland touch. Tinkly piano and group sax man Carl Bonuci are to the fore on this side. Carl’s solo meanders and flirts with failure but just misses doin’ a big faceplant. Bonus points for a great finale, with Ray Ceroni's guitar and the group's drummer Larry Gianbalvo in sync; they hit the brakes to great effect at record's end.

The Bell Notes record I still hope to find underpriced in some seller’s bin is “Real Wild Child,” a Madison Records release that has five blazing guitar breaks on one of THEE wildest rockers ever committed to wax. Fingers crossed I’ll blunder upon a playable copy in this lifetime.

Tomorrow: a 1964 UK pop hit that inspired an award-winning 1992 movie drama; the B-side was covered by The Sex Pistols. What, oh what could this record be? Tune in tomorrow to find out!