Under the Boardwalk

Although The Drifters’ ever-changing lineup mirrored their name, the band’s 1964 incarnation was vital in the development of their gospel-infused take on soul here. These songs’ slice-of-life immediacy holds a mirror to the contemporary American experience. The downcast “On Broadway”; the idyllic, silky beach getaway "Under the Boardwalk"; and the cutting social satire “Rat Race” diverge wildly in lyrical tone, but the exquisite orchestral R&B arrangements and haunting lead vocals of Rudy Lewis and Johnny Moore hold them all together.