You’ll find everything Lulu recorded for Decca Records UK from 1964-67, which includes all of the firecracker from Glasgow’s singles, first two albums, non-album singles, a rare EP and a German language single.
Her single version of the bouncy and peppy Isley Brothers classic “Shout!” leads the charge, showing what a dynamic singer Lulu was — even at the then-young age of 16. She took Them’s mid-tempo hit, “Here Comes The Night” and rearranged it as a lovely ballad. “Heatwave” was such a popular hit in England that countless mod bands covered it, and Lulu’s version is very faithful to Martha and the Vandellas original hit. “Satisfied” sounds like a direct sequel to “Shout!” to me. Lulu’s version of Bobby Darin’s “Dream Lover” uses that same exact bouncy arrangement.
“Surprise, Surprise” is a fabulous rocker, driven with lead guitar by a young Jimmy Page on this Rolling Stones original. Page is also on the stompin’ “I’ll Come Running Over.” Amongst the strong covers are the Hollies’ “Just One Look,” Marvin Gaye’s “Can I Get a Witness,” and Cole Porter’s “So in Love.” The soulful “Try To Understand” has a strong Dusty Springfield feel to it.
“After You” sounds a bit like a James Bond ballad to these ears, and that was probably good practice for Lulu since she later did the 1974 film thme. Lulu also tackles the Knickerbockers’ rocking hit “Lies,” with much success — making this the absolute best introduction to Lulu’s complete first recordings.
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