This import two-fer collects the Dot albums Sugar Shack (1963) and Buddy's Buddy (1965) on one CD. Sugar Shack includes the title track, a giant hit for Gilmer, and mostly covers of others' hits, rendered as slightly more rock-oriented teen idol pop. Buddy Holly's "Lonesome Tears" was recorded for both albums, but the earlier version on Sugar Shack is easily the better of the two. And speaking of Buddy Holly, Buddy's Buddy is Gilmer's tribute to his departed Norman Petty Studio mate and features 12 songs written and/or recorded by Holly. Gilmer stays close to the pop side of Holly, displaying none of the rockabilly fire that Holly sometimes exhibited. Most listeners will be more adequately served by a best-of collection, but for those whose interest in Gilmer (or Holly) runs deeper, there is much here to like. ~ Greg Adams
