Some say that rock & roll died in 1959 and didn't re-emerge until the British Invasion in 1964. Others contend that the so called death of rock & roll was more hype than reality, and 1962: Still Rockin' works hard to make just such a case. The collection kicks off with the energetic "Do You Love Me" by the Contours and follows with the Ikettes' "I'm Blue," two songs that open a strong argument in favor of rock & roll's continued vitality. Other strong entries include the Miracles' "You've Really Got a Hold on Me" and Mary Wells' "You Beat Me to the Punch." Of course, Dion isn't Elvis, and the Four Seasons aren't the Coasters, but both turn in good performances with "Lovers Who Wander" and "Big Girls Don't Cry." The Everly Brothers turn in the milquetoast "Crying in the Rain," and it would be a stretch to call anything recorded by Neil Sedaka ("Breaking Up Is Hard to Do," in this case) rock & roll. But Bobby Bland's vocal on "Turn on Your Love Light" helps wash away the bad taste, while cuts like "(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance" by Gene Pitney win points for sheer oddity. 1962: Still Rockin' only partially makes its case, but its 22 selections are nonetheless an enjoyable stroll down memory lane. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., All Music Guide