Where would 1960s British music have been without the Shadows? More than simply Cliff Richard's backing group, they defined the classic guitar group line-up of twin guitars and bass. This album is the best introduction to the group for those whose knowledge does not extend past Apache. 

The album was released in 1977 and reissued on CD in 1997. Availability is patchy today although there is a 50 Golden Greats CD available that contains all the tracks as well as more recent tracks. 

Although it wasn't their first "solo" single, Apache was the track that broke through. It was written by Jerry Lordan and its development is covered extensively in 17 Watts a history of the British Rock Guitar. Apache showcased Hank Marvin's lead Fender guitar and this led them to focusing on guitar instrumentals for their own hits. 

Wonderful Land was another chart topper although drummer Tony Meehan and Bass player Jet Harris left at this point, later teaming up with each other to crack the charts themselves. The Shadows themselves produced a string of hits through the 1960s such as Kon Tiki, Dance On and Foot Tapper as well as their work with Cliff Richard. All of these tracks reached the UK number one position. 

The Shadows also starred alongside Richard in films such as Wonderful Land and even on stage at the London Palladium in Aladdin and His Wonderful Lamp from which came the track Genie with the Light Brown Lamp. 

Despite copying the classic Shadows guitar line-up, it was the Merseybeat groups that effectively ended the Shadows' chart domination. The Beatles even made their own comment in the early instrumental Cry for a Shadow. In addition, they band had moved away from their trademark instrumentals, having a couple of minor hits with vocal tracks, neither of which are included on this album. Nevertheless, the tracks still sound fresh today and the band's unique sound gives them a place in rock history as one the groups that defined an era. 

Essential Tracks:

• Apache
• Wonderful Land
• Dance On

Track Listing:

1. Apache
2. Man of Mystery
3. The Frightened City
4. Guitar Tango
5. Kon Tiki
6. Foot Tapper
7. Genie With The Light Brown Lamp
8. Warlord
9. Place in the Sun
10. Atlantis
11. Wonderful Land
12. FBI
13. Savage
14. Geronimo
15. Shindig
16. Stingray
17. Theme for Young Lovers
18. Rise & Fall of Flingel Bunt
19. Maroc 7
20. Dance On