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This collection of Perry Como songs differs from many that have been produced of late. On this collection you will find none of the big hits of Mr. C's. Our aim in this set is to highlight some of the overlooked gems and those rare tracks that have eluded other sets. Many of these tracks also appear in stereo for the first time. In the days of 45rpm vinyl the artist always gave at least two songs. The "b" side could sometimes be a throw away and sometimes turn out to be as good as the "a" side. On this set we have several "b" sides to million selling records. "Long Life, Lot's of Happiness" was the flip side to "It's Impossible" and "Love Looks So Good On You" the flip side to "And I Love You So". Both these tracks appear here for the first time since their original release. Another song that only got it's release as the "b" side of a 45rpm was "Beats There a Heart So True". This 1958 track has two claims to fame. Firstly, it is one of the most sought after collectors' items, and secondly, it was the first single ever to be released only on 45rpm. Until that time singles were released on both 78 and 45rpm formats but the latter began to gain dominance in the market. The "a" side to this title was the best selling "Moon Talk". Two songs have associations with two of our finest British entertainers. The title song "World of Dreams" was written by Des O'Connor, and Max Bygraves' son Anthony penned the beautiful "There'll Never Be Another Night Like This". Perry's version of the Des O'Connor tune was released as a single in 1975 and, although it gained a good deal of airtime, did not make the impact it should have had. This track was also one of the last that Perry recorded in Nashville with the legendary Chet Atkins producing. Other tracks on this collection are from various albums Perry made in the 70s and 80s. Perry recorded two very fine studio albums in the 80s with Mike Berniker. The songs were contemporary and the arrangements some of the finest Perry had had in his career. Who else but Perry could make such a sentimental song, "Jason", sound so sincere? We also have two tracks from the eloquent "Lightly Latin" album so requested among fans. Also included here, and yet another "b" side, is Don McLean's "Wonderful Baby". Don and Perry have a very good relationship for it was Don who penned the million selling "And I Love You So". This track also appears for the first time since it's original single release. However, the pièce de résistance must surely be the oldest, yet newest track. Originally recorded in 1956 but not released until 1993, and here making it's UK debut, the beautiful "Unchained Melody". Listen to the faultless breath control and underplaying of the lyric. In my "World of Dreams" I see this set as Volume One . . . let's hope you like it and want more! — Michael Dunnington, April 1995
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