Barry & the Remains were a Boston band from the 1960s that achieved cult status for their exciting live shows, original songs and harmonies. Although the short-lived group (1964-1966) got plenty of regional airplay, national recognition was elusive, even though they opened the Beatles’ last U.S. tour in 1966.
Over the years, foreign labels have released compilations of the Remains’ recordings, and Epic eventually released an expanded version of their original album. Leader Barry Tashian later showed up in Emmylou Harris’ band, after which he and his wife Holly became respected country performers.
Now, more than three decades after the Remains’ breakup, the original members, including Chip Damiani, the original drummer who had quit before the Beatles tour, have gotten back together to release a new rock ‘n’ roll album. Movin’ On is as true to the group’s original sound as can be expected. Thanks to a few guests, including Holly Tashian, the harmonies are better than ever, and the subtle country influences that creep into the arrangements blend well with the Bo Diddley/Chuck Berry/British beat rhythms.
The notes claim the album consists of all new material, though four songs have appeared on previous Barry & Holly Tashian albums. “Trust In Me” and “Ramona” were on the duo’s debut album from 1988, but the arrangements here are quite different.
It’s a challenge for rock bands to get together so long after their heyday and still manage to evoke the unbridled sounds of youth, but this reunion session worked out well.
