Biography
Among musical ensembles the quintet has long held an established place, which explains the existence of the Five Barons amid the many other groupings that number five. Collectors devoted to doo wop and vocal harmony may encounter the name only after prolonged searches through stacks of used discs, an effort comparable to archaeological digging. The Beacon imprint alone can spark recognition, much like scattered mosaic pieces. The reverse of the single, however, carries no additional track, rendering it a true one-sider. When the title reads “Fine as Wine,” the disc in question is the scarce Five Barons release, specifically catalog number 9144.
This performance constitutes the group’s sole known recording and appears to have been made chiefly to showcase the composition rather than the performers. Philadelphia promoter and songwriter Charles Roisman supported both ventures. A 1952 agreement he signed with Beacon manager, publisher, and producer Joe Davis obligated the Five Barons to commit “Fine as Wine”—one of six songs sharing that title—to tape. The fact that additional versions do not exist seems surprising, given how readily the lyric satisfies two enduring songwriting conventions by rhyming and referencing alcohol. Armed with at least a serviceable rendition, Roisman and Davis could then pitch the number to other acts, among them the vocal group the Crickets. Roisman is believed to have exercised some managerial or promotional role with the Five Barons themselves. Guitarist Sam Alexander directed the ensemble, which also included vocalist Ernest Ambristeri.
This performance constitutes the group’s sole known recording and appears to have been made chiefly to showcase the composition rather than the performers. Philadelphia promoter and songwriter Charles Roisman supported both ventures. A 1952 agreement he signed with Beacon manager, publisher, and producer Joe Davis obligated the Five Barons to commit “Fine as Wine”—one of six songs sharing that title—to tape. The fact that additional versions do not exist seems surprising, given how readily the lyric satisfies two enduring songwriting conventions by rhyming and referencing alcohol. Armed with at least a serviceable rendition, Roisman and Davis could then pitch the number to other acts, among them the vocal group the Crickets. Roisman is believed to have exercised some managerial or promotional role with the Five Barons themselves. Guitarist Sam Alexander directed the ensemble, which also included vocalist Ernest Ambristeri.