Description

The Carpenters were always different. In a world of glitter, glam, prog, rock and myriad styles of music they followed their own musical mantra, one where harmony, love of the old songs and melody reigned supreme. Yet theirs was no bland pop, not formulaic nor predictable, they produced some of the most inventive pop during their 14-year career. The Carpenters recorded 11 albums, released 31 singles, and toured the world with drummer/vocalist Karen beguiling audiences with her beautiful voice and Richard wowing the public with his keyboard skills and arranging abilities.

In 1969 Herb Alpert the A in A & M Records signed the band, attracted by their unique sound. Working in the studio with no real direction the Carpenters produced their debut album, Offering the same year which included their cover of, Ticket to Ride. The Beatles song became a minor hit on the Billboard chart and the album was retitled and reissued as Ticket To Ride in 1970. It is one of the most underrated debut albums by a major artist, in any genre of music, including as it does a great version of Buffalo Springfields Nowadays Clancy Cant Even Sing.