The Box Tops* – The Letter / Neon Rainbow

I have to presume that this is the first Alex Chilton album, as him being a member of The Box Tops. The blue-eyed soul of Chilton's singing plus the aural pleasures supplied by producer and songwriter Dan Penn makes "The Letter/Neon Rainbow" a real delight. I'm intrigued by Penn's production of the album. The orchestration is both understated and there to support Alex's vocals. I don't get the feeling that this is a band at work, but more of a singer with a remarkable writer and arranger. I love "Trains & Boats & Planes" as well as their version of "Whiter Shade of Pale." There is a mellow aspect to the vocals, and yet, it is hard to believe that Alex was a teenager at the time of these recordings. Chilton had that genius aspect in that whatever he touches on, it becomes gold. Penn and Chilton are/were a great working relationship.

I discovered this band through their song "the letter". I then listened to this album on Spotify and had to put it on my vinyl list. I don't really have a detailed, descriptive approach of an eloquent music critic but I know what I like; so all I'll say, is that it's awesome in many ways. I can't believe their lead singer was only 16 when this album came out!!!! I think "The letter" and "A Whiter shade of pale" have become 2 of my most go to songs when I'm driving on my own.