The Tormentors – Hanging Round (1967) (2009)

The Tormentors on this LP reissue show a bit of a strange mix of local style influences that were popular around that time, from crooner-like lyrics and songs, 60s pop ballads, use of easy on the ears rhythms and music, garagey pop, early psych and British pop influences (including The Beatles) and some rock’n roll associations on two tracks, this still makes a rewarding band sound and inspirations, and this sometimes in styles which should only just hover a bit above the average. Interesting variety- some east coast folk influences where you can hear just a touch of Phil Ochs, some west coast harmonies too, and then there are complete switches to boss garage cuts that're surprisingly tuff. Nice cover of the Beau Brummels ''Still In Love With You Baby'' but the rest are originals after the only tame intro, the effect of their approach always sounds rather fine, with many small surprises, like the nice psych organ on “Capricious Lolita” one of the elements which breaks the mellowness of the song, or some strange sort of brass arrangements on the love song “It's Not Over”. “Childhood Memories” is a favorite of mine, a ballad with nice flute and nothing but simply jangling guitar. Some other favourites are “She’s Gone”, a nicely swinging American psychpop song, and the garage ballad “Cause You Don't Love Me ” coming after that. by adamus67