One of two companion
Everly Brothers
compilations
Bear Family
released in early 2013,
The Ballads of the Everly Brothers
contains exactly what the title promises: 30 ballads from the greatest harmony duo of its time. The 30 songs on this single disc were recorded between 1957 and 1962, meaning it favors their big '50s hits for
Cadence
but also has a smattering of sides for
Warner
, and its lengthy running time means this doesn't just have hits ("All I Have to Do Is Dream," "Maybe Tomorrow," "Devoted to You," "Take a Message to Mary," "Let It Be Me," "So Sad [To Watch Good Love Go Bad]," "Love Hurts," "Ebony Eyes," "Crying in the Rian"), but also digs deep into their catalog, offering beautiful songs written by
Boudleaux
and
Felice Bryant
, originals by
the Everlys
, pop and country standards, and the odd song by an emerging songwriter like
John D. Loudermilk
. This showcases
the Brothers
' range and also their expertise, as each cut here is sweet and gorgeous. It's an excellent way to explore
' dreamy side in depth, while its cousin comp
Rocks
showcases their harder side and is equally worthwhile. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine