“The Hit Makers!” – Les Paul & Mary Ford

Album: The Hit Makers!

Artist: Les Paul & Mary Ford

Year: 1953

Genre: Country

Grade: A-

The duo’s arrangement of “How High the Moon” may be their finest recorded moment ever, while the rest of the LP is Paul & Ford as usual: beyond-perfect vocal melodies backed by unbelievable guitar. An early benefactor of multitrack recording, Ford’s extensive use of doubling gives her singing a dreamy clarity, while hubby Les is able to conjure a miniature jazz band from his guitar layering. For fans of early rock ‘n’ roll who want to find where the genre started, Paul & Ford’s The Hit Makers! is an essential piece of music history; well worth a listen.