Mills Brothers - Swing is the Thing

Mills Brothers
Swing is the Thing
Joy Records 297  
The Mills Brothers were four genuine brothers from Piqua, Ohio. They were born a year apart - John was the eldest and then came Herbert, Harry, and Donald. In those days, the late twenties, barber shops were often renowned for their vocal quartets, and as their father, Jon Mills (Sr) was a barber, it was hardly surprising that the boys started singing in close harmony at quite an early age. At first they worked locally as semi-professionals, just four boys and a guitar, to which they occasionally added kazoos to simulate musical instruments. At one appearance the kazoos were accidentaly left at home, so instead Harry put his hands to his mouth and imitated a trumpet. The audience seemed to like it, so they developed this style, and the rest is history. This compilation features songs from the earliest days of their hit-making career; all from the 30's. Listening to this album, it is hard to fathom that all this music was made with just four boys and a guitar. Essential for lovers of vocal harmony singing.