There are countless Carpenters compilations available, both in the U.S. and as imports. In many cases, compilations with the same titles often have minor variations between countries. This particular title, Singles: 1969-1981, is the most recent version of the first Carpenters compilation that covered 1969-1973. Since this one is an SACD hybrid, it is playable in both CD and SACD players. What is there to recommend on this compilation? Remixes. Remixes that you’ve never heard before.

The biggest news here is that Richard Carpenter took the multitracks into Capitol studios to create a surround mix for this SACD release. In the past, there have been many comments about Richard’s constant tweaking, remixing and re-recording of parts of these classic tracks. Many of them showed up on various compilations throughout the years, but a few even made it onto the original album CDs. This was rectified by release of the “Remastered Classics” series which, unfortunately, have been dropping out of print over the past year or so. But that still leaves us the compilations.

This new version of Singles features all new surround mixes by Richard. These are far from the quadraphonic mixes of the 70s, which were sometimes gimmicky in their presentation. Instead, Richard builds up a nice three dimensional soundfield within his mix. Karen Carpenter’s voice is always front and center, but pushed out very slightly into the room for good presence. Most of the time, the strings (if there are any) and the multilayered vocal arrangements are washing over the listener, as they come from all four corners. My favorite remix is “This Masquerade”. You have the basic Carpenters combo in the front, and the strings and other sweetening coming from the rears, which ebb and flow as the song progresses. This is but just one example of the tasteful mixes on this disc.

My only minor beef is with the re-recorded parts. Aside from the artistic angle, I can easily hear in the high-resolution 2-channel version where more modern recordings (circa the mid to late 1980s) are mixed in alongside the original recordings from 1973. Other than that, if you don’t mind the remixed or replaced parts, you’ll enjoy this new recording. The surround mix makes it very worthwhile if you’re SACD-capable. This one’s a keeper!

Pick this one up through our Rudy’s Corner Store.