Overview by Paul Gambaccini (short)
It is terribly ironic that the British acts who tried to imitate late-fifties rock-and-roll failed in America, but several artists who made more subtle duplications of sound succeeded.
“I Honestly Love You” was the third major hit for Olivia Newton-John, whom US buyers sincerely believe is a progressive country artist. “Beach Baby” by First Class skilfully nicked elements of the early Beach Boys hits as did, indeed, “Wombling Summer Party,” the only Wombles track to make any impact at all in Brian Wilson’s homeland.