Do You Believe in Magic: The Music of John Sebastian & The Lovin' Spoonful

Even though the Lovin' Spoonful eventually made it into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a case could be made that they are still one of the most underrated American groups of the 1960s; indeed, singer-songwriter John Sebastian is probably better known for his tie-dyed suit at Woodstock and his theme song for the 1970s sitcom Welcome Back, Kotter than for his work with the Spoonful. With their mixture of folk, blues, rock, country, and jug band influences (conveniently but not inaccurately labeled "good time music"), this band was nigh on irresistible, and Sebastian and his mates (drummer Joe Butler, bassist-pianist Steve Boone, and guitarist Zal Yanovsky) enjoyed an impressive run of hits from '65 to '67. Most are featured in this short-but-sweet compilation of color and black-and-white clips, hosted by Sebastian (who provides solid background and commentary) and presented in Dolby Digital stereo, from "Do You Believe in Magic" (their first hit, and still the template for the Spoonful sound) to "Summer in the City" (their most accomplished studio effort) and the sublime "Darling Be Home Soon" (performed here by Sebastian and a post-Spoonful band). Several are lip-synced, but a surprising number are live, including "Did You Ever Have to Make Up Your Mind," "Nashville Cats," and "She Is Still a Mystery" (with Jerry Yester having replaced Yanovsky). Recommended. Aud: P. (S. Graham)