Reviews (1)

"Crazy" to NOT buy this album!
Yesterday, I walked into my local media store and saw this gem without knowing that day was the day Patsy Cline's Definitive Collection hit the stores. Thought it was a wonder that I didn't see this kind of collection (22 songs) for this kind of price (won't name it here but better than any double CD) before. So of course I took it home with me. Got hooked on Patsy when Dad would play her "12 Greatest Hits" CD (back when CD's first came to being in the mid-80s). Loved her ever since. There is no one who can match the country teardrop in her voice, the sassiness she gets on "Walking After Midnight", her wistful song selections from the ballads to the honky-tonkin' twangers. And this collection proves it. Buy it, you will not be disappointed. Unless you hate gool ol' country music, in which you're not reading this review anyways. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

A MOMENT IN TIME
Though I loved the over-bloated movie in its day, it has not held up nearly as well as this soundtrack, which features a wealth of superb songwriters strutting their stuff via Barbra and Kris Kristofferson. Barbra's pseudo rock/pop/diva material is mostly exceptionally well-performed, most of all her lovely simply ballad Evergreen. But in retrospect, it is Kristofferson's melancholy wailing -- remember he was about to hit rock-bottom during the making of this movie -- that has lasting power and angst. I particularly love Crippled Crow and his version of Watch Closely Now. This is a soundtrack worth having as a monumentally well-produced product from the mid-70s.

Blame it on Jon Peters if it helps you sleep at night
Allegedly setting out to do an updated "rock" remake, Barbra bafflingly hired non-rock, mediocre songwriters like Paul Williams and Rupert Holmes. Barbra's voice was at its peak here, and she manages to turn some of these sows' ears into silk purses. This has the disturbing effect of hearing a great artist performing far beneath her capabilities (something akin to John Singer Sargent drawing caricatures at carnivals). Most of the songs fall into the dated 70's me-decade-sexual-revolutionary message category. "Everything" ended up being one of those songs that lots of girls wanted to sing in high school talent contests and beauty pageants and on Starsearch. It's a shame Barbra didn't enlist the help of Richard Perry; her "rock" albums under his tutelage were at least credible. The Oscar-winning Streisand composition "Evergreen" is here, but it may be advisable to opt for one of the several compilations on which it appears. I won't even go into detail about the wretchedness that is Kris Kristofferson. Most CD players have programming capabilities that will alleviate that problem.

Classic Barbra, although a tad cheesy
I'm a huge Barbra fan, which is the only reason why I own this soundtrack, but I must say, even by Barbra's standards, this music has to be the most corniest ever put down on record. Kris Kristofferson's input is hardly worth mentioning, but I expected a lot better from Barbra. Blame it on Rupert Holmes and Paul Williams, the kings of cheese during the 70's, for messing up what could have been a much more solid soundtrack. Barbra's voice is fine as ever, but some of the material she had to sing for this movie are somewhat lame. "I Believe in Love" sounds like a song from a cruise ship lounge act, and "Everything" tries too hard to be deep, with cheesy lyrics like "if there was a flood, i'd give a dam." "Queen Bee" and "Woman in the Moon" are cute, funky women-power anthems, although they're bogged down by second-rate lyrics (who in the world is this woman in the moon anyway?). "With one more look at you/Watch Closely Now" is a strong, live effort by Barbra, although by the end of the song, it gets just a tad bit overblown. The best songs on here are "Evergreen" and "Lost Inside of You," which were actually co-written by Barbra. These two songs shows what a gifted talent Barbra has for writing music (she won an Oscar for "Best Song from a Film" for "Evergreen") and perhaps she should have been more involved in the writing process for the music in this film. All in all, it's hard not to like this album, despite its cheesiness.

Barbra always deserves 'one more look.'
This soundtrack to the film blockbuster (which became the second highest grossing movie of that year) was also an enormous success itself, spending six weeks at #1 and selling over four million copies in the US alone. Though a monster hit, the film was entertaining but uneven and the soundtrack reflects this. A STAR IS BORN is at it's best during Streisand's seven numbers, which feature astonishingly powerful vocals that resonate in the memory even long after the disc has ended.

The Streisand-penned composition "Evergreen" (with lyrics by Paul Williams), with it's haunting melody and classical-style timbre (very typical of her work), is one of the grandest pop records ever recorded. Artistic justice was served when the song also became a huge commercial smash, hitting #1 on both the Pop and Adult Contemporary charts and winning several armfuls of awards. The other song with music composed by Streisand, "Lost Inside Of You" (a surprisingly effective duet with leading man Kris Kristofferson), features a similar classical slant and perhaps could have been a hit as well (that is if it had been released as a single). The remainder of the Streisand tracks were recorded live in front of an audience ("Evergreen" and "Lost Inside Of You" were also recorded live, but in the studio), and these amazing performances will make listeners wish Streisand had given more concerts in the seventies.

Some of this material (especially Rupert Holmes' "Queen Bee") is second-rate and forgettable, but even then Streisand's vocals make them more memorable than they deserve to be. My favorite concert selections are the scorching "Woman In The Moon" and the heart-stopping medley "With One More Look At You/Watch Closely Now." On the downside, the disc has a somewhat disjointed feel (typical of pop-oriented soundtracks) and Kristofferson's three solo numbers are monotonous and sound out of tune. However, Streisand's vocals are fabulous and will make this a must-own for fans.

Are You a Figment of My Imagination...
I bought this album not because of Streisand, like most of the people who have reviewed this album, but because of Kris Kristofferson. He has been one of my favorite singers since I was young, and the songs here don't do him justice. I post this review to let people know that the songs here should in no way reflect Kristofferson's abilities as a singer and a songwriter. The songs here were written by other songwriters for this movie, and his character was a burnt out singer whose career was going down the tubes. Keep this in mind as you listen to his singing here. One need only to listen to any of Kristofferson's albums to know that the scratchy growling voice heard here (almost a deadringer for Tom Waits, which is what makes the songs listenable) sounds nothing like the singer when he makes a valid effort to make music.
As for the soundtrack, the duet with Streisand was good, "Hellacious Acres" is pretty funny, and the opening song (Kristofferson's main hit in the movie) is okay. As for Streisand, I have to admit her voice has a great range and this CD, as well as the movie, is a good showcase of her abilities. That's what the movie was about, and again I stress: don't judge Kristofferson by these songs. ... Read more

Amazon.com

As you may already know from seeing it hawked incessantly on late-night TV by Jerry Vale, Mob Hits is a compilation CD that attempts to capture the ambience of the modern gangster pic by assembling songs heard in key scenes of such films as The Godfather, GoodFellas, Donnie Brasco, and Casino. While licensing restrictions keep the music of Frank Sinatra from being part of this collection (odd, as the address on this package is the address for his long-time label Capitol Records), the selection and sequencing of well-known Italian "hits" by Vale, Dean Martin, Louis Prima, Lou Monte, Al Martino, and Julius LaRosa gets the job done with discretion and honor. And the liner notes even offer a toll-free number for homemade pasta sauce. --Gregg Turkington ... Read more

Reviews (38)

FOGET ABOUT IT! This CD is great.
I am an Italian American. Born in Washington, DC. I went to highschool in Milano, and also lived for a time in Napoli and Bari and am a member of the Italian Cultural Society in Washington, DC. I love the country, and am proud to be an Italian. Although I work for a federal Law enforcement agency I love the mob movies! The Godfather and Goodfellas are two of the greatest movies ever made and host sound tracks to die for (a little joke). The music on these CDs is not only fantastic and not only Italian but in the mob movies as well. Sure Italians are stereotypically portrayed in film, as all being mobsters, but the truth is that they aren't all mobsters, so get over it. And thanks to people like Roberto Beninni that is changing as well. These songs are in the mob movies and are timeless! So sit back, relax, light up a cigar, and enjoy!

A five star set but not quite flawless
From "The Public Enemy" to "The Godfather" to "Casino", Mob movies have always been among my very favorites. So when I heard about this set I was just thrilled. This set has almost all you could want as far as the traditional italian music is concerened. I gave it 5 stars but there are only 2 minor problems. One, this could have fit on one CD instead of two 30-min CDs. That just seemed like more of a reason to get more money. Two, while it's understandable that the licensing for the "Godfather Waltz" from the movie prevented the original from being on the Cd, there is no excuse for the lousy remake at the end of disc one. They should have left it off.

But the Cd is filled with the rich sounds of Dean Martin, Louie Prima, Al Martino, Jerry Vale, and more. Its a great album to listen to in the car or while your having a meal or just whenever you feel like it. It represents the mob movies well and I can't wait for Mob Hits 2.

Mob Hits CD
Great music that's fun to listen to - got us all singing along in the car the other night. Can't go wrong with this CD!!

Eh Cumpari
I love this CD! It's great, I've been listening to it since I was little with my grandfather. And whoever says its racist is has some serious problems! These songs are great and no one cares if you think its racist or not!!! EH CUMPARI!!

Que Bella!
I saw this album advertised one night in the fall and at first I was highly amused by the title. Like many people here who have written reviews, I love mob movies as well. I grew up with them. I saw this in a store and saw that it had many of my favorite artists on it. It wasn't so much that I remember them from the film, but because the music alone was great. I know that some people were offended by the title of the album, but I doubt that the makers had any intention of insulting individuals of Italian descent. it's a tribute to the music, not the images protrayed in the films themselves. And any one with a brain will realize that this does NOT apply to the Italian people. If you love good music, get this CD! ... Read more

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Never mind the project's odd couple, "He's got a girlfriend; so does she" marketing shuck. This is a musical love affair in all its splendor. Produced by the seemingly chameleonic producer T Bone Burnett (who previously revived traditional bluegrass with spectacular success on O Brother, Where Art Thou?), the septuagenarian legend and his unlikely contemporary foil affectionately court a dozen songs from the Louis Armstrong repertoire with the warmth and natural grace that have been a deceptively effortless Bennett trademark for 50-plus years. The pair kick proceedings off with a playful, irony-free "Exactly Like You," then perform a tender vocal waltz across both the ages and the masterful, sympathetic orchestrations of the late Peter Matz, one of Bennett's longtime collaborators. But it's on the more melancholy performances, like "If We Never Meet Again," "I'm Confessin'," and the Armstrong perennials "Wonderful World" and "Lucky Old Sun," that the pair tap into something akin to timeless musical telepathy. Her own talents hardly in need of burnishing, lang invests the project with some gratifying new smokiness and is rewarded with a postgraduate course in saloon singing for the ages. It's an album that begs the best kind of question: When do we get an encore? --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (46)

"You Can Depend On..." This One
Louis Armstrong is my favorite instrumentalist AND vocalist of all time. So, we have Tony Bennett (the best old style jazz singer still kicking) and K.D. Lang...well, what do you say about K.D. Lang? Just the best voice in so-called country and easily one of the top four vocalists in jazz (with Cassandra Wilson, Diane Reeves and Diana Krall). Now we have these premier singers doing Louie songs. How about that cover of "Exactly Like You". Oh man. I listened to that one four times before I went on the rest of the album. Every song is exquisite. "What a Wonderful World" is my numero uno song on the hit parade of all songs ever written. What a great cover. And dig that cover of "Lucky Old Sun". Whoa. I had to go through that one three times before moving on to "If We Never Meet Again".

So on my fifth listening to this CD, I'd say T-Bone hit another one out of the park...

Lazy Sundays and Lounge ...
Tony Bennett shows no sign on slowing down and when you mix k.d. lang's languid vocals, you have a wonderfully lazy album to enjoy while frittering away a Sunday afternoon. "A Kiss to Build a Dream On" and "That Lucky Old Sun" are wonderful and beautifully done. k.d. lang is a fantastic torch singer, giving us an intimate vocal with the barest hint of jazz accompanimentI believe one reviewer mentioned the absence of a trumpet. This is true. In my humble opinion, I think the artists have paid a great tribute to the source material by using the dusky low notes of a sax to complement their voices instead of having someone emulate Louis' trumpet playing ... which should be left alone as stand alone music, if that makes sense. Give this CD a try and you will be hooked after the first listen, I promise!

If only kd ...
.. would have done this on her own I'd have added the fifth star to my review! Maybe I'm a little partial (I'm a big fan of miss kd) but I think that this project would have been managed so much better by kd alone.
Probably she would have choosen a different kind of production, (by T Bone Burnett) that sometimes is a little... anonymous, flat, to much classicaly jazz.

The highlights of the project are "A kiss to build a dream on", "Exactly like you" and mainly "That luky old sun", probably the most touchy standard version of the album.. and kd is alone. In any case, I recommend this album, unless you really can't bear Tony's voice.
You won't be disappointed by kd's talent.

MOSTLY Agree w/Other Reviewers...
Only complaint is the "mood" of the music is breached a few times when Tony "talks" a line or two at the end of a song ... makes an otherwise lovely duet seem schlocky/variety show-ish.

Bennet is class.......
Thanks to another artist (Michael Bublé) I've learned a lot about the making of good music. Mr. Bennett makes beautiful music.
I really enjoyed this cd. I now know why he is so respected..... ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Plucked from the piano bars of New Orleans, Harry Connick Jr. was an unlikely choice to pen the soundtrack for a major Hollywood release. But everyone concerned hit the jackpot. As with the best of Connick's music, When Harry Met Sally resonates with a whimsical yet sophisticated and urbane energy. That smooth, breathy tenor, combined with some inventive arrangements, brought color and setting to the film, playing a plum supporting role for Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. Beyond the film, this collection of reworked standards stands on its own quite well. A lustrous vocal line bookends the hopping instrumental swing in the middle of "Don't Get Around Much Anymore," playing that song's central melancholy up with a Nelson Riddle-esque big-band sweep. Connick's take on "Love Is Here to Stay" puts a gentle cha-cha behind the familiar verses, slowly working in a lazily wandering tenor sax. By the time the record fades out in a hushed, tender rendition of "Where or When," Connick has managed to thoroughly charm us, whether we'd seen the movie or not. --Matthew Cooke ... Read more

Reviews (38)

I totally agree with "The Music Fan" from L.A. on 12/19/99
This is NOT the Soundtrack. If you liked the first two songs in the movie, "Our Love is Here to Stay", and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off", then buy the CD "Ella and Louis Again", (Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong). Those are the versions which were played in the movie. If you like good, traditional jazz, then I suggest you stay away from this CD. Although Harry Connick is popular, his music is too much like Chet Baker, which is not my favorite type of jazz.

You gotta have it!
It Had to Be You, Love Is Here to Stay, But Not for Me, Don't Get Around Much Anymore, I Could Write a Book, Let's Call the Whole Thing Off and When or When are vocal numbers, others are instrumental. Soundtrack is featuring only covers. Songs are mostly performed by trio Harry Connick, Jr. (piano and vocal), Benjamin Jonah Wolfe (bass) and Jeff 'Tain' Watts (drums), sometimes with Big Band or by Harry alone (Where Or When, Autumn In New York and Winter Wonderland).
Harry Connick Jr.'s interpretation is great.

Harry Connick Jr., Always A Class Act!
I recently purchased this CD and have really enjoyed listening to it. Harry Connick Jr. always lives up to my expectations, and the music from this soundtrack is no exception. Almost single handedly he has managed to create a new fresh awareness to these musical jewels, and even now in 2004 he continues to reacquaint the world to the beautiful songs from the Great American Songbook. His classic interpretations of these timeless songs brings them back to life, and proves once more that these perfectly crafted tunes will last forever. This CD is great for dancing, listening, and especially when you want to be romantic.

If you LOVE listening to GREAT CROONERS and BIG BAND SWING, I would also recommend, Monte Procopio "Swingin' With Style" CD. He is another great crooner that can really SWING and deserves a listen. Buy both these CDs, you can't go wrong!

This one will make your heart sing
This is a heartwarming CD from Harry that is spending a lot of time in my disk spinner. Connick's youthful and delicate, yet rich timbre conveys these romantic songs of love and longing in a way that brings a smile to your face. An then there is his idiosyncratic sense of rhythm and awesome piano playing. Who cares if it is exacly the music from the movie? Get the CD and hear for yourself.

There are four wonderful instrumental tracks Stompin' At The Savoy, Winter Wonderland, Autumn In New York and It Had To Be You, which showcases Harry's amazing piano playing and his signature sense of rhythm and timing.

THIS IS THE ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK!!!
Don't listen to the other reviewers this IS the original soundtrack for the film when Harry Met Sally. Buy it and enjoy it. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Andrew LloydWebber'sadaptation of T.S. Eliot's poems may not have become Broadway's longest-runningmusical without the original cast to begin the raves. Which is why every aficionado ofthis theatrical classic will tell you that this is the one you have to own (although they'llprobably tell you that you need the import Original London Cast album as well,the show having originated on London's West End and all). But this is the one with BettyBuckley singing "Memory"--the song that turned her into a star--and the two discs areappropriate for the musical that helped set off Broadway's "operatic" phase. The show isnow also available--in its entirety--as a home video, but the music still stands on its own,though some cynics have wondered why so much music only produced one hit standard.--Bill Holdship ... Read more

Reviews (87)

THE BEST MUSICAL EVER WRITTEN!!!
CATS is an awesome musical; a lot better than most people realize! It's very upbeat and fun. My favorite songs are The Overture, Prologue: Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats, The Invitation to the Jellicle Ball, The Rum Tum Tugger, Bustopher Jones, Mungojerrie and Rumplteazer, Old Deuteronomy, Skimbleshanks: The Railway Cat, Macavity: The Mystery Cat, Mr. Mistoffelees, Memory, and The Journey to the Heaviside Layer.

A lot of the people who don't like this musical is because they don't understand it (they're looking for a non-existent plot). But the thing is is that to understand CATS you have to let go of all reality for two hours and just enjoy the music and the show. The musical is actually about the naming of Jellicle cats and the choosing of what cat will journey to the Heaviside layer (heaven) and will cone back to a new Jellicle life. I definately recommend this CD!! Enjoy!

It was okay, but I wasn't awed by it!
I bought this CD before I saw the musical, well I still haven't seen the play live but I saw it on tape and I didn't really enjoy it and the cast recording just didn't do any thing for me I had bought it because since I loved the Phantom of the Opera I figured (Wrongly) that I would also love Cats. Cats is Ok but it just didn't thrill me as much as Andrew Lloyd Webber's wonderful The Phanom of The Opera did or as much as the non webber musicals Les Miserables and Miss Saigon did and since I didn't enjoy the Cats cast recording I recently gave it away to a relative who loved Cats and will get better use of the CD's. I'm not saying that people shouldn't go see Cats or listen to the cast recording and that they shouldn't like it I'm just saying that I personally didn't care for it.

Not NEARLY as Good as the London Recording
I am Sorry if you like the Broadway Version, but it sucks. I was raised on the London version, may be that is why I prefer it. The Broadway version doesn't even compare. I heard it and I was like, "This is Broadway?" Community Theater is better than that, and more believeable. They just try too hard, and it just sounds stupid. I guess my main problem with this recording is Growltiger's Last Stand. That is my favorite number, and I just HATE it when the Broadway cast sings it. They just make it REALLY stupid. I mean, they start to SING OPERA for crying out loud, OPERA??? What the heck is up with that? I just can't stomach it. If you are looking to buy CATS, and I sincerely hope that you do, buy the London Cast Recording from 1981. It is much better in every which way.

CATS, N&F
This is the first recording (Not counting the video) of CATS I received (And I owe a 57% on a math test to it:-P), and I love it. I must admit I'm prejudiced to other recordings because of it, although there are a few faults about it (What recording is without?) For one, the music seems . . . lame and unenthusiastic. The voices of the singers drown it all out. Which, being that they are wonderful voices, isn't bad, but it sounds weird being almost-a cappella. So the prologue sounds a bit empty and oldie. But it's not bad.
Timothy Scott is on this recording as Mistoffelees/Quaxo, and does a remarkable job at it. His voice may not be the best, but it's just right for the conjuring cat. Oh, for Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer fans, Misto sings all the lyrics.
Terrence Mann as the Rum Tum Tugger wasn't the absolute best choice, but he really does a good job. He really sounds like he's having a good time, and, if you get the book, you can see just how well he got into his part. Don't be fooled, he's a really great actor.
Betty Buckley as Grizabella really isn't thrilling. Her voice just doesn't hold the sadness and despair and hope and hatred that her character is supposed to have. It's too strong. Period.
Ken Page is here as Old Deuteronomy, and, as far as it goes, he is the best Deuteronomy. His voice is deep and kind and stern and old and perfect for this role.
OoH, let me just say something about the Jellicle Ball. In the middle, when the music goes from a soft chime to the CATS theme music . . . it's the best . . . no weak music there!
Let me say that Growltiger's Last Stand is terrific. Bonnie Simmons is the best Jellylorum I have heard, her voice is beautiful. Growltiger (the actor's name escapes me) seems to me a great actor, although he hasn't the greatest voice.
And Macavity . . . Demeter (Wendy Edmead) just didn't seem right, don't ask me why. Bombalurina (the actress's name escapes me) seemed to be too tame to play the fiery, spirited queen.
In this review I have mentioned the aspects that I figured stood out most. If you want the best recording, this wouldn't be my top choice. The original Australian cast is good . . .
Don't let my review make you think that this recording isn't good . . . it *is*, just not the best. (Hey, it's still my favorite). Believe me, if you buy it, you won't regret it.
~~purzz, Mysta =^_^=

CATS IS AWSOME!!!
I ALWAYS HATED CATS. BUT THIS CD WAS HARD NOT TO LIKE. I GUESS THAT THE MUSIC IN CATS IS OK. BUT THE STORY IS AWFUL!I SAY YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO THIS CD AND NOT SEE THE PLAY. THE PLAY IS STUIPED. IT'S ALL ABOUT FREAKS IN COSTUMES TRYING TO BE CATS.
SURE,IT'S A GOOD LAUGH,BUT WEIRD. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

This Disk Captures the Energy
I was present at Feinstein's at the Regency in New York City for the show that is recorded here.This disk captures the energy that pervaded the room.Keely was in great voice and had a great rapport with the audience.This disk has it all: high energy Louis Prima arrangements tightly played by great New York sidemen (including saxman Jerry Vivino playing the Sam Butera parts and drummer Joe Cocuzzo), luscious sweetly-sung ballads, and nice-as-can-be Keely interacting with the audience. Sitting inches away from Keely and just feet from a band that blew the roof off, this was one of the great musical nights of my life.Amazingly, this disk captures the experience.The only things missing are the delicious lamb chops I ordered that night.

What a wonderful album
She is still the best. Sorry Louie couldn't be here to sing with her but I'm sure he is wherever he may be.
Keely's voice has never changed.
If you want 54 minutes of pure delight buy this album ... Read more

Amazon.com essential recording

Culled from the Columbia Records reissue packages, variously released under the multivolume Quintessential Billie Holiday umbrella, this package goes straight for the love songs, the heart of Holiday. Ranging from such playful lyrics as "Let's Do It" and "Them There Eyes" to such essential Holiday as "You Go to My Head," "The Very Thought of You," and "Easy Living," this set is guaranteed to keep the home fires burning brightly. Lay this one on your lover next Valentine's Day. As was so frequently the case with Holiday, the ensemble support is impeccable, including many of the swingers from Columbia's Greatest Hits package. The bonus here is Count Basie on piano, leading his swinging big band on "They Can't Take That Away from Me." --Willard Jenkins ... Read more

Reviews (18)

You ain't heard these songs 'til you hear Billie singin' em
It's one of those names that e'ybody's heard, but lotsa people, 'specially my age group (the under-25 category), have yet to truly embrace. But, lemme tell y'all that Lady Day was one of a kind. There's been certain vocalists over the past century that have an alluring quality about them and who's impact has etched them into history, allowing them to constantly be re-discovered by a new generation. It's when music becomes more than music. It's when it becomes a part of our collective conscious and everyday lives. Billie Holiday is an artist that my ol' grandmother used to listen to, and she probably woulda never thought that I would be comin' home from work, sittin' back in my easy chair, and listenin' to these old songs from the 30s and 40s crackle out of my stereo speakers. As with all the great singers, I feel every word she sings. While there are many legendary jazz musicians that are providing her with her backdrop, including Duke Ellington, Ben Webster, Lester Young, and others, Holiday's delivery is the real showcase. She sang straight from her gut. Her voice is smooth and rough, rich and gritty, raw and lovely, all at the same time. These are all sweet, romantic and cherishable love songs that are absolutely timeless in appeal. The story of her life is certainly a tragic one, but hearing her sing these wistful and almost-innocent numbers you'd never know it. If you've never listened to Ms. Holiday, don't deprive yourself of such great music any longer. This is a great place to get started. Chances are, once you hear this, you'll want to hear more. As for me, I think I'm gonna go crack a few brews, sit in my easy chair, put my feet up, and put this in my stereo. Ahhh, yeah, it doesn't get much better than this.

Excellent Billie Holiday primer w/best sound possible
This compilation collects the very love songs from what is probably Billie's best records, the early Columbia (Brunswick/Vocalion) records. Those records do not equal her later records in terms of recording quality nor does it match the nuanced phrasing of her Verve records. What they have going is a young and fresh sounding Billie fronting unbeatable arrangements and performances. They also have some great upbeat material that would become increasingly absent towards the end of Billie's recording career, showing just how much she could do (as her voice faded, she became less capable of handling such material convincingly).

All the Columbia material was collected on the 9 volume "Quintessential" set, but unfortunately, while half of the stuff is pure gold, there's also a lot of dreck. Furthermore, all 9 volumes have poor, compressed sound, and some great stuff comes off limp and lifeless. "Love Songs" rectifies this, and it's just amazing how much better everything is once it's been put through Sony's 20-bit fairy dust. Now if they would only go back and re-do it all in a tightly packaged 6 CD set...

Some of the finest from Billie Holiday 1935-1941
"Love Songs" is, along with "Lady Day Swings", the best compilation of Billie Holiday's recordings. This is one of those definate essential CDs that everyone must have. These recordings date from 1935-1941.

The best songs on this disc for me are: "The Very Thought of You", which is one of the all time great Billie Holiday recordings, "All of Me", "Me, Myself And I", "Them There Eyes", "The Way You Look Tonight". The songs on this album, are absolutely the best, and it does not include a single bad one here. This is absolutely classic Billie Holiday.

Then just look at the great musicians that are here to accompany her on these recordings. Leslie Johnakins, Eddie Barefield, Hymie Schertzer (alto saxophone), Lester Young (tenor saxophone, clarinet), Ben Webster, Chu Berry, Babe Russin, Vido Musso (tenor saxophone), Roy Eldridge, Buck Clayton, Harry "Sweets" Edison, Jonah Jones, Charlie Shavers, Shad Collins, Emmet Berry (trumpet), George Hunt, Benny Morton (trombone), Buster Bailey, Jimmy Hamilton, Prince Robinson (clarinet), Count Basie, Teddy Wilson, Claude Thornhill, Eddie Heywood, Margaret Johnson (piano), Freddie Green, John Collins, Al Casey, Allan Reuss (guitar), Walter Page, Milt Hinton, John Kirby, Ted Sturgis, John Williams (bass), Jo Jones, Gene Krupa, Cozy Cole, Kenny Clarke, J.C. Heard (drums).

The recordings have been digitally remastered by Mark Wilder, and he has done such an excellent job at it. These recordings sound brilliant. There are also good liner notes by Delfeayo Marsalis. I always think a CD should come with liner notes. Billie Holiday beats all of the other jazz singers by far, and this CD is a great choice to add to the collection. This is one of my most listened to CDs. Its a must own. Very highly recommended.

Billie is Wonderful BY DARA TILLERY
BILLIE WAS AN INSPIRATIONAL AND CONTREVERSIAL SINGER.Her singing is beautiful when she sings she touches others heart. this c.d is most definetely beautiful.

My favorite single album.
When my boyfriend bought this for me I was so happy and I remember I would play this music and sing for him in the car on cool dark, starry nights and I would be mesmerized not only by the intensity of those nights, but by the music she sang and how she deeply, richly portrayed those songs. She really knew how to set the mood for any lover or lonely lover as well. I totally recommend this CD to start if you have not heard much of her music...SHe truly is addicting once you hear these songs...These songs will definetly put you in an enchanting and romantic journey. ... Read more

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This is one of the three all-ballad albums that John Coltrane recorded in late 1962 and early 1963. Johnny Hartman was apparently Coltrane's suggestion, and his deep, dark voice meshes perfectly here with Coltrane's tenor. The material is well-chosen, including definitive readings of "My One and Only Love" and "Lush Life." McCoy Tyner fills out the chords, augmenting the harmonies and keeping the tone of these ballads respectful but not overly sentimental. All the players get to the deep structure of the songs and are not afraid to play in the most essential and elegant manner. This is beautiful jazz. --Michael Monhart ... Read more

Reviews (101)

Hartman and Coltrane:Masters in Concert
Of all the CDs in my jazz collection, this is one of those I treasure most. John Coltrane's tender and sensitive accompaniments are a refreshing contrast to the "sheets of sound" reputation for which he is better known. However, for all of Coltrane's greatness, make no mistake:Johnny Hartman is THE star of this recording. His warm baritone is enthralling and irresistible throughout. The highlight of this outing is Lush Life, and Hartman gives THE definitive version of that timeless standard. It is absolute perfection. Hartman's version never has been, and never will be surpassed. We can only speculate why Hartman did not enjoy greater acclaim while he lived. I only know that since I first heard him on the radio in 1993, my life has been richer as a result. As an aspiring singer myself, this CD is a must for anyone who wants to hear it done at the highest, most intimate level.

Arrestingly Gorgeous
As so many of these excellent reviews have said, this disc is an incredible experience. The warmth & tenderness of these songs convey the experiences of romantic love so well that it's pointless for me to try describing it with mere words. All of the emotions that make up romantic love: tenderness, passion, perhaps some tinges of sadness and regret, along with tremendous longing are present in these songs in ways both subtle and provacative.

I agree completely with one of the excellent reviewers who stated that it is incorrect to consider John Coltrane as a "sideman" to Johnny Hartman. This is truly an artistic collaboration that entailed one of the musical giants of the twentieth-century working with a woefully underated vocalist. With the wonderfully understated piano of McCoy Tyner, whispering bass by Jimmy Garrison and immaculate jazz drumming by Elvin Jones, this is sublime music.

The best ever? Well, here's an argument for that....
Many jazzophiles opine that this is the best vocal jazz album ever made. I don't know that I'd necessarily agree; but I wouldn't argue vociferously for another alternative. And, I would agree that it's one of the most remarkable ones ever made.

Normally, an album with nothing but slow, romantic ballads gets 4 stars from me, no matter what else. I make an exception here, for these reasons:

First, I know that the three principal musicians--Mr. Coltrane, Mr. Hartman and Mr. Tyner--had humongous voices, and when they wanted to, could cause a volcano to begin erupting. But here, each trades off volume for musicianship. Every note is caressed and burnished with beauty. By each musician. Every note, I tell you. No voice breaks, no squeaks, no dissonant chords. Everything in this album is just gorgeous.

Second, they did this in one day. Yes, Trane went in later and added some overdubbing; but the fact that Johnny Hartman could knock out what he knocked out in one day is just mind-boggling.

Third, this album just now is getting its due. When you think of Trane, you think of more spectacular efforts ("Favorite Things", "Giant Steps", "Love Supreme" and "Ascension"); but his playing was never more beautiful and controlled than here. And when you think of a big-voiced bass-baritone who could take his instrument anywhere in his range without straining, pinching, or losing pitch, you think of Billy Eckstine or Earl Coleman. Here, Johnny Hartman was every bit their equal.

This album should be in every wedding d.j.'s "Playlist" in the country. Though "You Are Too Beautiful" is my personal favorite, any one of the 6 would do. This is one of the very few albums I can remember that brought a tear to my eye, the very first time I heard it.

A love sublime
I love "A love supreme", but I can understand how some people find that one and even perhaps "My Favourite Things" kinda hard to get and artsy-fartsy. This one here, on the other hand, serves it straight and smooth. Standards, great playing, great vocals. That's that.

What have you been missing?
OK, what have you missed if you haven't heard this album? The first time I ever played this cd, my wife came in and started slow dancing with me. This is easily one of the most romantic cds ever recorded. John Coltrane is inspired beyond belief, not in a fiery Blue Train way, but in a I am touching the romantic muse where she lives kind of way. The supporting players all contribute so heavily> I am sitting here listening lush life, written by a 19 year old Billy Strayhorn(who at 19 knows more about love and loss than most men will know at their retirement).
And the words are, "you are still burning inside my brain". This easily is the way I feel about the voice of Johnny Hartman. I could listen to this guy sing Barry Manilow. He has a voice that cuts through all sadness to create a sadness all its own. Your emotions disappear, and you are left adrift in the phenomenal voice of a master interpreter. I guess he found a resurgence because of "The Bridges of Madison County", but this stuff is beyond Iowa sentimentality. This, to me, is beyond hearts, flowers, lust, heartbreak, walks in a park at sunset, the seven wonders of the world. It is music that leaves you thinking,"Where has this been all my life".

and the answer is "It's been here> Floating in the ehads of all of us who have ever walked on this planet, in love, heartbroken, or both.
Check it out. ... Read more

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Pop this on, close your eyes, and you'll be instantly transported back to the Vegas of 1966. The Sands Hotel was still the "class joint" where Sinatra and his Rat Pack buddies partied, held court, and occasionally even performed. This priceless document (Sinatra's first official live album) captures the Chairman of the Board in performance mode, ably supported by conductor-arranger Quincy Jones and Count Basie and his Orchestra. The set list comprises 16 Sinatra classics--including "Come Fly with Me," "One for My Baby (And One More for the Road)," "It Was a Very Good Year," and "Angel Eyes"--along with two Basie instrumentals and some seriously un-P.C. stage banter. Essential. --Dan Epstein ... Read more

Reviews (84)

'Frank' and 'Splank' Live!
"Sinatra at the Sands" (originally released in mid 1966) was actually the first commercial issue of a live Sinatra performance.

The "Sands" album was recorded over a 10 day series of performances at the Sand's famous Copa Room and features Sinatra in his primed backed by the Basie band with most arrangements written by Quincy Jones.

However, not all of Sinatra's material and arrangements are successfully "Basie-ized"

"It Was A Very Good Year" and "September of My Years," for example, still need the lush string arrangements of the original recordings; Billy May's chart on "Luck Be A Lady" with the tempo rushed seems awkward as performed here ("Luck", by the way, was not released on the original LP), and even Frank and Basie can't save "Get Me To The Church On Time".

But enough carping.

"Sinatra At The Sands" is Frank in the mid 60's, backed by the great Basie band, performing in Vegas before it was turned into a family-themed amusement park.

What more need be said?

Get This On "DVD-Audio" If You Can Find It! Amazing Sound!
I couldn't find a specific Amazon webpage for the "DVD-Audio" version of this fabulous Frank Sinatra album, so I'm putting this review in here for the "Audio CD" version.

But, if you can locate a copy of the DVD-Audio edition of "Sinatra At The Sands", I'd highly recommend going with that alternative. Because the Surround Sound is terrific and full on the DVD-Audio. You are literally smothered in sound via this excellent disc, as Old Blue Eyes belts out more than a dozen top tunes, as only he can do.

From "Come Fly With Me" to "My Kind Of Town" (and a whole bunch more in between), Frank gives the "Sands" audience (and us) a top-notch musical experience, which comes complete with that tremendous-sounding Count Basie Orchestra. There are also two "Monologue" tracks presented on the DVD, with Frank keeping his Las Vegas audience in stitches with many memorable quips. Plus, we also get three separate "Count Basie Instrumentals" during the concert.

This "Sinatra At The Sands" disc (which has a total running time of 76 minutes) was actually recorded over a period of several nights, culling many different Sinatra performances from his appearances at "The Sands Hotel" in late January and February 1, 1966. This was just shortly after Frank's 50th birthday (which he celebrated on December 12, 1965).

I play this DVD-Audio disc on a "standard" DVD-Video Player, which means if you've got a "DVD-Audio Player" this disc will sound even *better* (with two "Advanced Resolution" soundtracks being offered). But, on regular DVD-Video Players, you can still get tremendous sound via the TWO separate Dolby Digital Tracks that are included (a 5.1 Surround track and one with 2.0 Stereo).

A sizeable "Photo Gallery" is provided as a bonus "video" feature on the DVD-Audio edition of this album, with many behind-the-scenes and on-stage images, displayed in super-clear resolution. A great Gallery!

A 16-page booklet comes in this package, with a track listing and extensive liner notes, including a surplus of behind-the-scenes information regarding Mr. Sinatra and his appearances at "The Sands".

If you have an intense desire to be "Surrounded" by one of the greatest entertainers in history (specifically a fellow by the name of Frank), then I'd recommend running out and securing a DVD-Audio copy of this very enjoyable concert. Your ears will thank you. (At the very least, get the CD version.)

A Compelling Live Performance That Only Sinatra Can Provide
By 1966, Frank Sinatra had already established himself as a worldclass superstar. He was also an amazing showman. So imagine how great it was that his magnificent stage show was captured on tape and released to the public in 1966. The record was "Sinatra At The Sands", recorded at the famous Las Vegas showroom with the Count Basie orchestra.

On this cd, Sinatra swings through 16 of his classics, including lively versions of "Come Fly With Me", "Fly Me To The Moon", "I've Got You Under My Skin" (best veresion of the song, studio or live), "Get Me To The Church On Time", "Luck Be A Lady", "Where Or When" and "My Kind Of Town". Some of the best moments, however, are the mellow balads he does, including exceptional versions of "It Was A Very Good Year" and the haunting "September Of My Years". Also, there's some of his hilarious yet eyebrow - raising stage banter that would have raised controversy today.

Count Basie and his fabulous orchestra shine on their two solo spots, "One O'Clock Jump" and a delightful "Makin' Woopee". They also provide scorching backup for a Sinatra's performance. Just listen to the intro to "Come Fly With Me" and how Basie gently attackss the piano keys on "Fly Me To The Moon". This is what a live show should be. I reco,mmen this cd annd only wish live shows could be more like this today.

Simply one of the very best albums I own from any era
I've been a Sinatra fan since my early 20's (about fifteen years now) and I've searched far and wide for an album that compares to this one. I haven't found one yet. Whether you are a big Frank Sintra fan or you just want to have a collection that includes The Chairman (everyone should own at least one Frank CD) this album is a must. While I don't love every song on this, there are many songs that are just breathtakingly splendid to make this an 5 Star CD. Sinatra, who was 50 when this was recorded was at the top of his game. Songs like "Come fly with me" and "In other words" are simply incredible. Every time I listen to this it puts me in a good mood.

This album takes you back and gives you an idea just how special it must have been to be in the audience back in 1966. I shouldn't forget Count Basie and his band as a part of this album. They, and Quincy Jones make it great just as Sinatra does. I would say this album is a must for almost anybody's collection. You will love it.

Francis always shines as always.
This is a great Frank Live album. I don't know where to begin. Not only does he sound great singing these wonderful songs such as The Shadow of Your Smile, The September of My Years, One For My Baby (And One More For The Road),You Make Me Feel So Young, Don't Worry 'bout Me, Luck Be A Lady, which are my favourite on the album. He puts 100% his heart and soul into the entire album. Also, it doesn't hurt, to hear his voice which I love. The man is so charming. You can tell Frank really enjoyed his time with the audience. His cracking up jokes, and being the cool and charming man he always is. Ol' Blue eyes fans you won't be disappointed with this purchase. It's one of my favourite Live albums of his. ... Read more

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After the guest-star extravaganza Playin' with My Friends and the k.d. lang duets album What a Wonderful World, Tony Bennett goes his own way, settling into a mellow groove with The Art of Romance. Slow- and midtempo from top to bottom, Romance partakes mostly of deep-dish orchestral takes of classics (three by Johnny Mandel; two by Johnny Mercer). The end-of-the-affair "Where Do You Start" is the disc's quiet heart-stopper, while memories of happier days are conjured by Mercer’s "Time to Smile" and the wry Mandel/Dave Frishberg "Little Did I Dream." Perfect fall listening, alone or with a partner, this proves one of the richest albums of the singer’s late-career renaissance. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

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Curb Records has long specialized in low-budget repackagings of previously released material, and they certainly haven't gone out of their way with this 12-song Dean Martin compilation. Culled from his Capitol years, this does indeed feature some great moments--"That's Amore," "Volare," "Inamorata" and "Come Back to Sorrento" are all present and accounted for--and if you need a little Dino to spruce up a mix tape, this'll certainly do ya. However, Collectors Series offers much more bang for your buck, even if it costs a few extra dollars. --Dan Epstein ... Read more

Reviews (10)

All Time Favorites
This is a good disc to grab up most of Dino's biggest Capitol recordings. Seven of the twelve tracks are Italian numbers which is not unusual, this is Dino we're talking about. The swinger on the disc is "You're Nobody Till Somebody Loves You", and in my opinion the best ballad on the disc is "Innamorata". There really are no filler tracks here, each song is pure Dino.

Totally Dino!!! We love him as always!
Steubenville, you must be proud of the man. Every song makes you feel good, and Dean's smooth delivery is as fresh as the day he decided to give up being a blackjack dealer. Buy this and play it til Somebody Loves You!!! Then you must compare it to his live stuff as well, as he is now featured in the Ratpack Uncensored. the studio quality of this CD is much higher than the live performance, but the comparison is well worth it, to get a flavor for his sense of humor.

It's Dino
Hard to go wrong with this. Some of Dino's better known work! The sound quality isn't bad, making this is a great selection to drive to, or just kick back and unwind with!

Velvety with Satin Overtones
Not one recording in this collection leaves the listener flat. Indeed, each stands on its own in substance and depth. My favorite is "That's Amore" because it has a special private meaning. Continuing, though, one wonders how an Italian velvety smooth voice can create a vision of twilight in the South Pacific when singing "Return to Me." While it may not take place on an island beach, the softness and satin-like coolness of this recording brings forth such a vision--how utterly refreshing. The warmth of Mr. Martin's voice has been a gift to us all.

memories
I have had the tape for years,but I wanted the CD. I have loved listening to his voice and still miss is TV show. I wish they would rerun the show ... Read more

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Although his commercial triumphs rivaled Frank Sinatra's during his late 1950s breakthrough, Johnny Mathis the pop singer could seem both overshadowed and confined by that early success in the years since. But this rich, often warmly surprising entry into the contemporary Pop Standard Reinterpretation Sweepstakes finds a singer more artistically focused than he's been in years, employing a voice that remains one for the ages. His definition of "standard" here is variously classic (the majestic title track and "Love is Here to Stay"), loose (a take on Jobim's lilting "Dindi" that's the perfect showcase for every delicate nook of the singer's vibrato-rich tenor) and left-field (Herman's Hermits' brit-invasion hit "A Kind of Hush" perfectly recast as prime Mathis ballad), but his performances flow with a deceptively effortless grace that's a tribute to his nearly half-century as a recording artist. Producer/arranger Jorge Callandrelli frames Mathis in spare orchestral backdrops that allow him ample space to soar, then nudge him gently into swing mode on "This Can't Be Love" and "Day By Day." The album closes with an evocative, de facto medley pairing a magically innocent, if unlikely cover of The Muppets' "Rainbow Connection" with Mathis' duet with Ray Charles on "Over the Raindbow," culled from the r&b legend's final album. --Jerry McCulley ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Isn't it the Best?
This cd is one of Johnny Mathis' best! His voice is as smooth as ever and like fine wine he gets better and better with age.

MATHIS- Greatest Album since 1960s- BUY, BUY, BUY,
MATHIS ALBUM BEST SINCE 1960s---
Johnny Mathis has done the best recordings since 1960 on this album "Isnt It Romantic" its gone straight in to my top 10 favourite Mathis albums.(I have 100 plus)
The mans voice is astounding, so rich smooth and as usual effortles. The orchestra is just out of this world and the pace of each recording brings a new quality to the lyrics of the Great writers of these classic songs.
I love the song "Dindi" my favourite here, I wish Mathis would record a full album of latin songs like this one, this recording just blows me away. "The Rainbow Connection" is a heart-melter from The Muppets. "A Kind of Hush" tenderly sung and then swings to the orchestrations. Mathis and Ray Charles duet " Over the Rainbow is included here what can be said that already hasnt,a deserved Grammy Winner for being original and so unique.
This album shows that Johnny Mathis is the best singer in the business and I would say Tony Bennett is a close 2nd.
I cant fault this album in any way. The younger stars of today like Bubble and Feinstein 2 other great artists,would struggle to match the quality of this singer. You can hear the difference in Johnny Mathis from yesteryear, naturally, he is nearly 70 but he just doesnt sound it at all.
The voice is not worn or tired in any way. Its richer,deeper, softer,less highly pitched, more baritone- just beautiful.
The Producer and arranger here has to be mentioned "Jorge Calandrelli" whom Ive never heard of before now ,"where have you been all the years Johnny Mathis has been recording?" Please do another album with him soon you have the ultimate compliment together.
To any real collector or appreciation of a Great Voice for jazz or easy listening then this is an absolutley MUST HAVE cd. (Iam going to buy another just for back up) hehe. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do................... AAAAA+++++ 5-STARS

Someone once said that if Frank Sinatra is Chairman
of the Board, then, Johnny Mathis is the CEO.CD's like this one prove that point.Simply put, no one is better than Johnny Mathis.

Mathis at his best
They don't call Johnny Mathis the King of Romance for nothing, and with "Isn't it Romantic" he proves once again why he deserves that title. There are songs that seem to be made for Johnny Mathis, and this collection of songs include some of them. Johnny's rendition of "Day by Day" and "Dindi" are brillantly orchestrated and sung. Its a well known fact that Johhny Mathis loves to record with a live orchestra as he does here. His voice shines through on each and every song effortlessly. Even in a rare instance, when you catch a word in a lyric where he may not have caught it just right and it went just a tiny bit flat, as in "This Can't be Love", its ok, thats the best part of knowing your getting the true unretouched voice, and not the magic of technology. Which as you know if it wanted to, can make even Kermit the frog sound good, on every word and every syllable in that word, but you would miss the true essence of a master singer at work. None of that fix it up technological magic is needed here, give me the natural performance any day, it's the best, as is Johnny Mathis. Also included in this collection, is "There's a Kind of Hush" this rendition reminds me of Natalie Merchants version of "One Fine Day", maybe the slower pace is all these songs needed to make them go from good to great. With the Nat King Cole classic "This Can't Be Love" you will also find "Almost Like Being In Love" these are two examples of how Johnny Mathis can take well known songs and find a way to make them his own, by giving it that Mathis touch. The only negative, if any, is the inclusion of "Over The Rainbow", not that it is bad by any means, its great, but it is on the final Ray Charles CD, "Genius Loves Company". I would have liked it instead if Johnny could have included a song like "Pure Imagination" as one of the selections on this CD. I recently saw Johnny Mathis in concert, and he performed this song, and he performed it beautifully. All in all this is a must buy CD. For those Johnny Mathis fans it's another CD to add to your already large collection. For those few who are not yet Johnny Mathis fans, this and other Johhny Mathis CDs will make you ask yourself one question....Why am I not a Johnny Mathis fan? He is simply the best there is bar none.

"Romantic" Sets The Standard for Mathis Again
Prime Cuts:There's A Kind of Hush, Cottage for Sale, The Rainbow Connection

As he has done all through his career, Mathis has once again grace us with a grand swath of standards from composers including Richard Rodgers, George Gershwin, Harold Arlen and Alan Jay Lerner.So, what makes this CD indispensable?What keeps this album from being tautological?Regardless of the innumerable permutations of these classics, this veteran of romantic musical excavates has a way of approaching each song with a stunning balance of emotional commitment and seasoned command.Though Mathis has had tackled most of the chestnuts from the American songbook, it's hard to imagine he's had not covered "Love Is Here to Stay" until now.Nevertheless, it's better late than never as Mathis shows us one again how he can take a classic love ballad and sing it as if he owned the song."The Rainbow Connection," often associated with the Jim Hensons' the Muppet Show, is another highlight.Given a grandiose production backed by some lush sounding orchestra, this is track which will linger with affectionate aftertaste.

Of a more unlikely cover is the Brit Invasion hit (also associated with the Carpenters) "There's A Kind of Hush."Performed at a languid, but chimerical pace, Mathis' much toned down version of this understated love ballad is stellar.Even when romance has lost its luster, Frank Sinatra's more obscure "Cottage for Sale," has never sounded more lonesome as Mathis plaintively croons:"A little dream castle/With every dream gone/Is lonely and silent/The shades are all drawn/And my heart is heavy/As I gaze upon/A cottage for sale."Loneliness has never shutter with such starkness and embitterment.Picking up the tempo, though not the emotional disposition, "Almost like Being in Love" has a swinging feel with a waltzing tilt.

With no disrespect to the late Ray Charles, this jazz legend was not at his best when dueting with Mathis on "Over the Rainbow."In fact, not only does Charles sound a haggard, but a little off beat.Incidentally, "Over the Rainbow" is also found on Charles' final duets CD "Genius Loves Company."Technically, this means that there are only 9 newly recorded tracks here. In this day and age where most CDs contain an average of 10-12 songs, this is quite a fleece.Nevertheless, despite these minor quibbles, the meritorious quality of "Isn't It Romantic" once again acquits this 60-something crooner with honors. ... Read more

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The Sinatra who could more than convincingly offer that he had a crush on you is represented by this sweetly packaged 22-track collection. Culled mostly from the early Reprise years (with a four-cut sample of Capitol performances), Greatest Love Songs makes an airtight case for his work during the period. Often tender, occasionally enthusiastic, these selections skirt the bombast and self-parody the Chairman sometimes fell into on his own label. Popular classics like "Fly Me to the Moon" and "The Way You Look Tonight" are more than matched by keepers like the dramatically slowed Sinatra & Strings version of "Night and Day," the swinging dare of "Let's Fall in Love," and the elegiac 1961 take of "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You." Save for the thud of a studio-engineered posthumous duet with Celine Dion--an insult both to Sinatra and one of the most delicate of his signature songs, "All the Way"--this is an exemplar of the Valentine-themed album. --Rickey Wright ... Read more

Reviews (18)

Five stars for Frank-- but a big 'but'
It seems the labels like to "celebrate" Valentine's Day by releasing various compilations of Sinatra's music. That's understandable, considering his is one of the most romantic voices for that most romantic occasion. Even so, before you buy this, I have a suggestion: try one of his original albums, like "Sinatra & Strings" or "Nice 'N' Easy." Those albums were designed for such moments, because all the songs have a similar sound or quality, with beautiful orchestration, lovely lyrics, and Sinatra's incomparable vocals. This compilation ranges from 1953 ("My Funny Valentine") to 1966 ("Strangers In The Night"), unless you include-- and you should NOT include-- Celine Dion's song. No offense to her, but if she didn't sing it with Sinatra, it doesn't belong on the CD. But, in addition to the range of years , we have a range of tempos, from very slow in "Like Someone In Love" to swinging like crazy in "Fly Me To The Moon." I can't imagine that would be very good on a date. Maybe one "side" for fast songs to play in the car, and slow songs to play at home. Otherwise, the back-and-forth jolt of "The Very Thought Of You" with sweet strings to "The Way You Look Tonight" with snapping Nelson Riddle brass is just too much! As far as the non-Celine songs, they are all good, but all available in other formats. "You Brought A New Kind Of Love To Me" was recorded specifically for the opening credits of the Paul Newman movie of the same title. "In The Blue Of The Evening" was recorded for the "I Remember Tommy" tribute to Sinatra's former "boss" Tommy Dorsey, but dropped from the original album. "Don't Take Your Love From Me" was also dropped from "Sinatra & Strings." But luckily both are on the CD releases, so these are hardly rarities. Actually, at this time, you'll have a hard time finding one of Sinatra's best albums, the cutely titled "Moonlight Sinatra" with Nelson Riddle. And from that album we have the best song, Sinatra's take on the Glenn Miller theme song "Moonlight Serenade" that ranks as one of my all time favorite Frank songs. So-- there is a lot of great stuff on this set, but it does seem like an almost tasteless attempt by the labels to make a buck. And the CD cover, while nicely done, is a bit odd: I believe the woman Sinatra is dancing with is his third wife, Mia Farrow. Considering how that turned out, not the best photo for a CD of Frank's greatest love songs!

The Master of the Romantic Ballad
When Sinatra began his career with Reprise--which makes up the bulk of this collection--in 1960, he still continued to work with long-time arranger Nelson Riddle on such classics as "Moonlight Serenade" and "The Way You Look Tonight" from 1965 and 1964 respectively. Some of Sinatra's earliest sides for Reprise ("Let's Fall in Love," "You'd Be So Easy to Love") were arranged by former Count Basie trombonist Johnny Mandel, who lends a jazz influence to the proceedings. On the standard "Fly Me to the Moon" Sinatra works with Count Basie and his Orchestra along with arranger Quincy Jones. Listening to the twenty-two tracks collected hear, it makes a compelling case that Sinatra was the finest singer of the Twentieth Century. If you're looking for the perfect Valentine album, check out Sinatra's work with arranger Nelson Riddle on Songs for Swingin' Lovers or its follow-up Songs for Young Lovers--both from 1955, arguably Sinatra's classic period on Capitol. ["My Funny Valentine" and "Like Someone in Love" are both from Songs for Young Lovers.] With that said, Great Love Songs makes for wonderful romantic background music and will serve as a suitable introduction to the genius of Frank Sinatra. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Excellent for all
People who truly listen to lyrics of artists will find this album to be an excellent addition to any collection. I like Sinatra's work, in general, as he is able to tell a story so well with words through song.

A solid collection of Frank Sinatra love songs
"Greatest Love Songs" was released early in 2002 to be available for Valentine's Day, and while my preference is for the great thematic albums that Frank Sinatra put out in the 1950s and 1960s, this is a solid collection of 22 tracks (even when you dismiss the faux duet with Celin Dion on "All the Way"). While the album relies mainly on songs Sinatra recorded with Reprise in the 1960s, Warner was also able to pull several songs from the earlier days with Capitol. This collection includes a good share of hits, from "My Funny Valentine," "I've Got a Crush on You," and "Fly Me to the Moon" to "The Way You Look Tonight," "Night and Day," and his last #1 hit, "Strangers in the Night." The nice thing is that in picking these songs they paid attention to the songs and not just the titles. Granted, if you have an extensive collection of Sinatra albums in your music library then you probably have all of these tracks already, but instead of putting together a love song collection like this yourself you can just pick up this one. If you have discovered an affinity for Sinatra love songs, then that would be another good reason to pick up "Greatest Love Songs." You could also check out the collection "Songs for Swinging Lovers" as well as a suitable companion album to listen to what Sinatra and arranger Nelson Riddle could do when they wanted to put together an album of love songs all by themselves.

The Chairman rocks!
In my opinion, Sinatra has no bad songs ... just some that are better than others. This compilation has some totally excellent tunes on it -- although I find the title somewhat ironic, because many of these songs deal with unrequited longing and with the always-predictable romantic angst and ambivalence. But, I also find those are some of my favorites: "Let's Fall in Love," "You'd be So Easy to Love" come to mind. Toward the end of this CD there are songs that are slow/boring, but overall it's a great collection for lovers of Ol' Blue Eyes. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

"It's Impossible" to pass up Very Best of Como....
RCA's The Very Best of Perry Como is a wonderful 21-song set which covers nearly 30 years of this barber-turned-crooner's career. I purchased this album one year after its release in July of 2000, and although I do love Como's voice and smooth delivery of such songs as "Papa Loves Mambo" (a Billboard Top 10 hit in 1954), I am fond of this record for sentimental reasons. When I was a girl growing up in Florida, my stepfather and I would either watch one of Como's TV specials or listen to his recordings on a record player. When I listen to "Some Enchanted Evening" from Rodgers and Hammerstein's "South Pacific," I remember watching Como perform this classic ballad on our black-and-white TV, my stepdad (a Navy veteran who served in the Pacific in World War II) at my side.
As I said earlier, this CD is a retrospective of Como's long and successful career, starting with the 1940s Swing Era hit "(A Hubba-Hubba-Hubba) Dig You Later" to his sweet, romantic "And I Love You So" from the 1970s. Some of my favorite tracks include Slim Willet's "Don't Let the Stars Get in Your Eyes," "Because," and an English language cover of Armando Manzaneros "Somos Novios," better known as "It's Impossible."
If you like Perry Como or want an album of easy listening music with one of the great talents of the genre, The Very Best of Perry Como belongs in your music library. I heartily recommend it.
Betty June Moore

Love it and I am 35!
I am 35 and my husband and I love Perry Como. Our 7 year old daughter who LOVES Pappa Loves Mambo and the ABC song too! We push the repeat button and she could listen to this one for hours. I love Perry Como's songs. Thanks to my grandma who I loved to hang out with she and I shared it, especially during the holidays. He was a great guy and singer. We like listening to this on our weekend drives we always take. It really sets the mood. A total family outing! Just wish I had the car from that era! I have to say every song on this is great! I highly recommend this to anyone my age!

Hey, I'm 16 years old and I LOVE it!!
Perry Como is awesome. For those who like retro and are tired of the ratpack and Brian Setzer, try Como. This cd is so totally cool. I love Catch A Falling Star, and Papa Loves Mambo(the one from the commercial). I've turned half of my high school onto this cd, kids at my school are now making out to Perry Como. I'd recomend this to any teeneger, it sure beats Britney Spears and The Back Street Boys.

Yo, this is like my Great Grandparents music, but it's jiggy
I'm jiggy with' dis. It all cool baby. Perry Como is so out, he's in. I especially like the novelty songs, he badder than Snoop Dog. Even if you think ya Grampa's music sucks, this music is cool, maybe Gramps had good taste in music afterall, yo yo it all cool babydoll... Dis' music rocks, it da bomb, it's phat, it's da sh*t!!!

and i love her so
it describes how much i love my wife and 2 little girls more then i ever could!!! ... Read more