Swingin' Easy

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com essential recording
Sarah Vaughan had already mastered the roots of gospel music and the intricacies of bop when her overarching talents led her to be packaged as a pop-singing canary. Fortunately her work with EmArcy allowed for some straight-ahead, unadorned jazz performance, where Vaughan's talent could shine without the frills. On Swingin' Easy, Vaughan is backed by a pair of trios, both featuring the great drummer Roy Haynes, whose supple rhythms give Vaughan's voice the context it deserves. "Shulie a Bop," "Lover Man," "All of Me," "Body and Soul" and "They Can't Take That Away from Me" are masterful performances. --John Swenson

Swingin' Easy, Music, Sarah Vaughan, Ballads, Jazz, Jazz Music, Jazz Vocals, Pop, Standards, Traditional Pop, Vocal Jazz
Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 5: Wild Cool & Swingin
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The club is cookin'; the band is hot and you just walked in--CRAZY !!!
  • LOVE IT!
  • I love the Ultra-Lounge series.
  • Great lounge/cocktail sampler
  • Grab a Gin and Tonic, sit in a booth in the back, and enjoy the show.
 Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 5: Wild Cool & Swingin
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 15: Wild Cool & Swingin' Too
  2. Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 4: Bachelor Pad Royale
  3. Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 14: Bossa Novaville
  4. Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 1: Mondo Exotica
  5. Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 6: Rhapsodesia

ASIN: B000002U1T
Release Date: 1996-02-20

Tracks:

  1. Ain't That A Kick In The Head - Dean Martin
  2. Dig That Crazy Chick - Sam Butera & The Witnesses
  3. More - Bobby Darin
  4. Fever - Peggy Lee
  5. Jump, Jive, An' Wail - Louis Prima
  6. Please Don't Talk About Me When l'm Gone - Sammy Davis, Jr.
  7. Danke Schoen - Wayne Newton
  8. French Poodle - Sam Butera & The Witnesses
  9. What Is This Thing Called Love? - Keely Smith
  10. Sunday In New York - Bobby Darin
  11. Closer To The Bone - Louis Prima
  12. Nobody But Me - Lou Rawls
  13. Little Girl - Vic Damone
  14. L.O.V.E. - Nat King Cole
  15. Volare (Nel Blu Di Pinto Di Blu) - Dean Martin
  16. That Old Black Magic - Louis Prima & Keely Smith
  17. You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To - Julie London
  18. Hello, Dolly! - Bobby Darin

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The club is cookin'; the band is hot and you just walked in--CRAZY !!!.......2007-07-12

Ultra Lounge, Volume 5: Wild Cool & Swingin gives us eighteen swinging tracks to delight your ears and make you dance all through the night! The collection of hits doesn't have a dud in the set; and the diversity of the artists couldn't be broader.

The CD track set begins with Dean Martin's classic interpretation of "Ain't That A Kick In The Head." The Nelson Riddle arrangement relies on the horns and the piano is awesome! Dean's voice is in perfect form--energetic and full of masculine warmth as he sings of his new love. A previously unreleased track of "Dig That Crazy Chick" by Sam Butera & The Witnesses follows; Sam & The Witnesses swing hard. Sam's voice is clear and full of excitement as he describes his new girlfriend. The musicians never miss a beat, either!

Bobby Darin performs "More" with sensitivity and panache; I love that piano arrangement by Richard Wess! Peggy Lee's classic rendition of "Fever" absolutely oozes the feminine desire for a man; the people snapping their fingers along with the beat really add to the number! Peggy's voice is rich and vibrant for "Fever." Excellent!

"Danke Schöen" by Wayne Newton will surpass your expectations if you've never heard this ballad before; Wayne sings this with all his heart. Wayne's interpretation of "Danke Schoen" makes his rendition THE definitive interpretation of "Danke Schöen." Jimmie Haskell's orchestra performs beautifully with a firm emphasis on the horns, percussion and strings.

If you want a more playful number, however, check out "French Poodle" by Sam Butera & The Witnesses. Sam sings this to perfection and the horns sound great on "French Poodle!" "Closer To The Bone" by Louis Prima continues in this vein; I believe that you will enjoy "Closer To The Bone" by Louis Prima.

The CD provides us with still more traditional love ballads. Nat King Cole performs "L-O-V-E" without a superfluous note; love that horn solo in the middle of this number! Moreover, Dean Martin croons "Volare (Nel Blu Di Pinto Di Blu)" with a great musical arrangement; I really like how Dean Martin sings this number in both English and Italian. Great effect!

Julie London delivers "You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To" with all the style of a consummate performer; and the CD track set ends well with Bobby Darin crooning a great "Hello, Dolly!" Darin sings "Hello, Dolly!" with great care and sensitivity. "Hello, Dolly" provides a strong ending to the CD track set.

The liner notes include great artwork; and R. J. Smith contributes an essay about lounge singers and the nightlife of the late 1950s and early 1960s especially on the Vegas strip. The song credits and recording dates are there for you; and there are even two drink recipes! Bob Norberg at Capitol Recording Studios did a great job of remastering these tunes.

The very special, golden age of The Vegas Strip with its superstars of the 1950s and 1960s may be behind us but this album does a great job of recreating those special times. I highly recommend this CD for fans of lounge music; and people who enjoy classic pop vocals will cherish this CD for years to come.

Enjoy!

5 out of 5 stars LOVE IT!.......2007-05-13

Love this kind of music - can't get enough - have most all of the CDs. Excellent New Jersey-based company with excellent foresight and retro-understanding for the best party and jazz combos. Excellent choice for any kind of day or evening, party or relaxation time.

5 out of 5 stars I love the Ultra-Lounge series........2006-12-10

The sound quality of the Ultra-Lounge series is excellent, even though the songs were recorded mostly in the 50's and 60's. Capitol Records packs each CD with carefully chosen tracks consistent with the theme of the particular volume in the series. Many of the selections that appear here aren't available elsewhere, either because the original album on which the song appeared is out of print, or because the song was issued as a single and never collected in an album. A few 'previously unreleased' tracks also appear here. This series is a wonderful introduction to the music of a by-gone era, and each album includes detailed notes on each track (artist, writers, date recorded, how released, etc.). I heartily recommend it to anyone who has an interest in this type of music.

5 out of 5 stars Great lounge/cocktail sampler.......2005-10-12

The UltraLounge series definately covers the genre throughly, and this one is about the best in the series. Not every song is well-known, but most are very very enjoyable. This is a good place to start if you are introducing yourself to the genre. I thought Bobby Darin's More was the most lush and enjoyable of the tunes. You'll get a chuckle out of Prima's Closer to the Bone, a song not found on the usual Prima samplers. You certainly get a "you are in old Vegas" feel off of these tunes! Check out their UltraLounge website for a good look at the full series. Definately recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Grab a Gin and Tonic, sit in a booth in the back, and enjoy the show........2005-09-29

This is one of my favorite Ultra Lounge discs, as it combines many of the great live acts of the 50s/60s. If you close your eyes while listening to it, you may think you're sitting in the Copa room of the Sands in Las Vegas. A little Louis Prima, some Dean and some Bobby Darin make the night just right.
Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 15: Wild Cool & Swingin' Too
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • LOVE ULTRA-LOUNGE!
  • Great Compilation!
  • I love the Ultra-Lounge series.
  • Wild, Cool & Swingin' Too is #1 in my book
  • Perfect for the midnight swinger in all of us!
 Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 15: Wild Cool & Swingin' Too
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 5: Wild Cool & Swingin
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  5. Ultra-Lounge, Vol. 16: Mondo Hollywood

ASIN: B000002UH8
Release Date: 1997-06-03

Tracks:

  1. Frenesi - Eydie Gorme
  2. Night And Day - Steve Lawrence
  3. Charade - Bobby Darin
  4. A Lot Of Livin' To Do - Nancy Wilson
  5. 5 Months, 2 Weeks, 2 Days - Louis Prima
  6. Wives And Lovers - Vic Damone
  7. The Boy From Ipanema - Peggy Lee
  8. Strangers In The Night - Wayne Newton
  9. With Plenty Of Money And You - Tony Bennett
  10. Call Me Irresponsible - Bobby Darin
  11. Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby - Dinah Washington
  12. Snootie Little Cutie - Bobby Troup
  13. Daddy - Julie London
  14. Just In Time - Dean Martin
  15. Perdido - Sarah Vaughn
  16. Angel Eyes - Jack Jones
  17. Just A Gigolo/I Ain't Got Nobody - Louis Prima
  18. Midnight Swinger - Mel Torme
  19. Destination Moon - Dinah Washington
  20. It Had Better Be Tonight - Lena Horne
  21. Hawaiian War Chant (Ta-Hu-Wa-Hu-Wai) - Ella Fitzgerald

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars LOVE ULTRA-LOUNGE!.......2007-05-13

Love this kind of music - can't get enough - have most all of the CDs. Excellent New Jersey-based company with excellent foresight and retro-understanding for the best party and jazz combos. Excellent choice for any kind of day or evening, party or relaxation time.

5 out of 5 stars Great Compilation!.......2007-03-20

I would recommend this CD as well as the original "Wild Cool & Swingin'".

You'll like them both!

5 out of 5 stars I love the Ultra-Lounge series........2006-12-10

The sound quality of the Ultra-Lounge series is excellent, even though the songs were recorded mostly in the 50's and 60's. Capitol Records packs each CD with carefully chosen tracks consistent with the theme of the particular volume in the series. Many of the selections that appear here aren't available elsewhere, either because the original album on which the song appeared is out of print, or because the song was issued as a single and never collected in an album. A few 'previously unreleased' tracks also appear here. This series is a wonderful introduction to the music of a by-gone era, and each album includes detailed notes on each track (artist, writers, date recorded, how released, etc.). I heartily recommend it to anyone who has an interest in this type of music.

5 out of 5 stars Wild, Cool & Swingin' Too is #1 in my book.......2006-10-10

Don't get me wrong - I've got most of the Ultra-Lounge discs and I love them all - but this one is the best. Each disc focuses on a facet of Lounge music (Bossa Nova, Mambo, Exotica). Most of these are a kick in a "They sure did some crazy music" way, but the two Wild Cool discs focus on the more popular acts of the era.

The disc is hopping starting off with Eydie Gorme in a blistering read of the latin classic "Frenesi". Steve Lawrence follows with a barnstorming take on "Night and Day". I can't even listen to Sinatra's version without falling asleep now. The pace doesn't let up with Bobby Darin's phenomental "Charade" and Nancy Wlson's "A Lot of Livin' To Do".

Dinah Washington contributes the hot jazz classic "Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby" (a.k.a. the song from the Tom & Jerry classic) and the sultry "Destination Moon". Tony Bennet does "Plenty of Money and You" which was featured on the Swingers soundtrack. Mel Torme sings the cheeky and hilarious "Midnight Swinger".

Other standout tracks include everything. No seriously, there isn't a bad track on the disc with one outstanding cut after another. If you want some classic lounge tracks, you've found them. I think this is better than Wild, Cool & Swingin', but it's great, too, so why not buy both of them?

5 out of 5 stars Perfect for the midnight swinger in all of us!.......2006-07-26

This CD is chock full of great songs performed by some of the greatest talents of the 20th century. There is a total of twenty-one (yes, twenty-one) tracks on this CD making it both a lot of fun and a great value. It's also excellent for lounge music lovers and fans of classic pop vocals.

The CD starts off with Eydie Gorme doing a smash "Frenesi." The song is beautifully arranged and Eydie's voice is in excellent form. Her other half, Steve Lawrence, follows up quickly with the beautiful "Night And Day." Awesome!

The songs on this CD are all wonderfully musically arranged and the quality of the sound is excellent. No excess noise here! Bob Norberg at Capitol Recording Studios did an excellent job of digitally remastering these tracks.

I loved Nancy Wilson's electric version of "A Lot Of Livin' To Do;" and Peggy Lee does some hot job of "The Boy From Ipanema." Bobby Darin fans will delight that two of his songs are on this CD: "Charade" and "Call Me Irresponsible." Dinah Washington fans get an equally nice treat; Dinah sings both "Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby" and "Destination Moon" on this album.

Wayne Newton does a particularly good job with "Strangers In The Night" and I also liked the style with which Louis Prima delivers "5 Months, 2 Weeks, 2 Days." One playful number that I really enjoyed was the medley of "Just A Gigolo/I Ain't Got Nobody" by Louis Prima. A chorus accompanies Louis on this number and the result is thrilling!

The liner notes are very, very good. You get song credits and the dates the songs were recorded by the artists. There's an extensive essay by R. J. Smith--and there are even two drink recipes: one for a "blue blazer" and the other for a "millionaire." Not bad, not bad.

I highly recommend this CD for fans of classic pop vocals, lounge music, and the great vocalists of the 20th century such as Tony Bennett, Dinah Washington, Louis Prima, Dean Martin and Bobby Darin. All these performers and many more can be found attacking their songs with all their might here on this CD! Get this CD, turn down the lights and enjoy your favorite drink--and maybe enjoy a little romance while you do!
Look for a Star/A Swingin' Safari
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Time Trip to my Youth.
  • TWO OF BILLY'S BEST
 Look for a Star/A Swingin' Safari
Billy Vaughn
Manufacturer: Collector's Choice
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music
Orchestral PopOrchestral Pop | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music
Traditional PopTraditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music
Traditional Vocal PopTraditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
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  1. Theme from a Summer Place/Theme from the Sundowners
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ASIN: B000F2C8FS
Release Date: 2006-06-27

Tracks:

  1. Look For A Star
  2. Snowfall
  3. Mona Lisa
  4. Paper Roses
  5. Greenfields
  6. Beyond The Sunset
  7. Because They're Young
  8. He'll Have To Go
  9. Theme From The Apartment
  10. La Montana
  11. Just A Closer Walk With Thee
  12. Marta
  13. A Swingin' Safari
  14. (It's No) Sin
  15. Born To Be With You
  16. Alone
  17. Glow Worm March
  18. In The Chapel In The Moonlight
  19. Sunday In Madrid
  20. Love Letters In The Sand
  21. Blue Flame
  22. A Fool Such As I
  23. Throw Another Log On The Fire
  24. When The Saints Go Marching In

Product Description

    Look For A Star
  1. Snowfall
  2. Mona Lisa
  3. Paper Roses
  4. Greenfields
  5. Beyond the Sunset
  6. Because They're Young
  7. He'll Have to Go
  8. Theme from the Apartment
  9. La Montana
  10. Just a Closer Walk with Thee
  11. Marta
  12. Look For A Star
    A Swingin' Safari
  1. (It's No) Sin
  2. Born to Be with You
  3. Alone
  4. Glow Worm March
  5. In the Chapel in the Moonlight
  6. Sunday in Madrid
  7. Love Letters in the Sand
  8. Blue Flame
  9. A Fool Such as I
  10. Throw Another Log on the Fire
  11. When the Saints Go Marching In


Format: CD

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Time Trip to my Youth........2007-05-26

The song "Look for a Star" was on the first record (45 rpm) and record player I ever owned (age 12). I haven't heard this song by Billy Vaughn's Orchestra till this CD. 47+ years... The flip side of the 45 was Bobby Rydell singing "Volare".... the remaining songs were a treat also. It is always exciting to hear a tune or experience a moment from my youth...

5 out of 5 stars TWO OF BILLY'S BEST.......2007-03-30

Two of Billy's best albums, biggest hits and both led by big singles hits. LOOK FOR A STAR has some marvelous strings on some very big hits of the day as well as standard material. SWINGIN SAFARI has songs with strings, a little marching music and Woody Herman's great jazz classic BLUE FLAME which is given its due by the Billy Vaughn crew. These were lps which were played some much they were almost white. Great to finally have them on CD!!
This Time I'm Swingin'!/Pretty Baby
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • What a wonderful pairing of two albums on one CD--DEAN MARTIN IS GOLD !!!
  • A Piece Of Nostalgia
  • THE ABSOLUTE BEST OF DINO!!!!!!!!
  • THE BEST OF THE BEST! 5 STARS ++++++
  • Great Sound! Great Swing!
 This Time I'm Swingin'!/Pretty Baby
Dean Martin
Manufacturer: EMI Gold Imports
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Pop | Styles | Music
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ClassicClassic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
Traditional PopTraditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music
Classic VocalistsClassic Vocalists | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
Traditional Vocal PopTraditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Dream with Dean/Everybody Loves Somebody
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  5. French Style/Dino Latino

ASIN: B0000071YH
Release Date: 1996-12-06

Tracks:

  1. I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me
  2. True Love
  3. You're Nobody 'Til Somebody Loves You
  4. On The Street Where You Live
  5. Imagination
  6. Until The Real Thing Comes Along
  7. Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone
  8. I've Grown Accustomed To Her Face
  9. Someday
  10. Mean To Me
  11. Heaven Can Wait
  12. Just In Time (From The Film 'Bells Are Ringing')
  13. I Can't Give You Anything But Love
  14. Only Forever
  15. Sleepy Time Gal
  16. Maybe
  17. I Don't Know Why (I Just Do)
  18. Pretty Baby
  19. You've Got Me Crying Again
  20. Once In A While
  21. The Object Of My Affection
  22. For You
  23. It's Easy To Remember
  24. Nevertheless (I'm In Love With You)

Album Details

Two Albums Chosen by the Dean Martin Assicoation as the Albums their Mambers Most Want to Hear. Fantastic Ballads and Superb Standads. 25 Digitally Remastered Tracks.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars What a wonderful pairing of two albums on one CD--DEAN MARTIN IS GOLD !!!.......2006-07-18

This CD has a magnificent 24 tracks from two record albums Dean Martin put out when he was still recording with Capitol Records. Yes, I agree somewhat with reviewers who write that the first set of songs (from the album This Time I'm Swingin'!) is stronger than the second set of twelve songs from the album Pretty Baby; but overall this is still a wonderful CD. Dean's voice is in fine form and I liked the way the two different styles of songs are placed here on this single CD. There are the songs from This Time I'm Swingin'! which highlight Dean's voice with the incredible work of Nelson Riddle; while on the other hand the last twelve songs represent what Dean could accomplish with a chorus backing him up and the talents of Gus Levene.

The CD opens strong with the vibrant "I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me;" other BIG highlights from the first twelve songs are "You're Nobody 'Til Somebody Loves You" (my personal favorite) and "On The Street Where You Live." "Until The Real Thing Comes Along" is just as beautifully orchestrated. Wow!

The second set of twelve songs that Dean did with Gus Levene gives a different feel to the second half of the CD. This truly IS more of a "Ray Conniff" type of musical arrangement with Dean squarely in the middle but still not quite as strong because the chorus detracts from his performance just a little. Nevertheless, I loved "I Don't Know Why (I Just Do)" because Dean's voice and the musical arrangement is perfect! Dean does this song flawlessly--as he did all his songs. There's an interesting rendition of "I Can't Give You Anything But Love" and "Pretty Baby" is beautifully written and orchestrated.

The quality of the sound is wonderful. You'd never know these recordings were made so many years ago! The liner notes also include reproductions of the front and the reverse of both record album jackets--tough to find these days! The liner notes include the song credits, too--a nice plus!

In short, the reviewers are right--you simply can't be without this CD if you want to have a Dean Martin collection. These albums are unfairly getting more difficult to find as the years go by and that's a terrible shame. I also highly recommend this CD for fans of classic pop vocals. Moreover, fans of Nelson Riddle will be delighted because the first twelve songs are orchestrated by Riddle himself. You just can't miss with this one! Great job, Dino! SMILES

5 out of 5 stars A Piece Of Nostalgia.......2005-04-01

Dean Martin's music had been part of our household when I was growing up. He was one of my late parents' favorite singers and they collected a good number of his albums. Influenced by my late parents' music, Mr. Martin had become one of my favorites too and I especially loved his "Pretty Baby" album. My late parents must be beaming with pride up in Heaven knowing that I've been enjoying their kind of music, the music I grew up with and still appreciate to this day.

This compilation CD was taken from two of his best-ever albums, "This Time I'm Swingin'!" and "Pretty Baby." The first twelve tracks were superbly arranged and conducted by the great Nelson Riddle and taken from the album "This Time I'm Swingin'!" and highlights a couple of songs from "My Fair Lady," "I've Grown Accustomed To Her Face" and "On The Street Where You Live." Other highlights are "Just In Time," "Until The Real Thing Comes Along" and "Someday" (You'll Want Me To Want You).

The last twelve tracks were from my all-time favorite album "Pretty Baby" and fabulously orchestrated by Gus Levene. All the songs in this album are so remarkable and Dean Martin's favorite songs that he has often sung and his interpretations with his back-up singers (I love it!) are so splendid. My very favorites are "The Object Of My Affection," "Only Forever," "I Don't Know Why" (I Just Do), "Once In A While," "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," "Sleepy Time Gal," "Nevertheless" (I'm In Love With You) and "It's Easy To Remember."

Listen to this CD and you'll be transported back in time. It's one of the simplest ways to enjoy the music of our parents and reminisce the good old days. It's a piece of nostalgia!

5 out of 5 stars THE ABSOLUTE BEST OF DINO!!!!!!!!.......2003-08-01

This is Dean Martin at his absolute BEST! These two albums are simply the best LPs he ever put out. Every song on both albums is the quintessential Dean Martin. The man and the music that everyone thinks of when you hear the name Dino. They were recorded in '57 and '60 before he changed over to the Reprise label and started recording country ballads that most Dino fans find dissappointing. His years at Capitol are FAR superior to the years he wasted at Reprise (I blame Frank for this). I have a few of the 2-fer cds of his years at reprise and it's not even close. These songs are perfectly arranged and ably conducted by Nelson Riddle and Gus Levene, who are simply the best at complimenting Dean (as if he needs any help!) Dean effortlessly delvers each song with perfection and melifluous cadence you can't find anywhere else. The first album is loose, easy and relaxing even though the title says otherwise. The second album is just as smooth, but most of the songs do feature an unnecessary choral background that only draws attention from Dean (this is the only drawback from a perfect album). "I Can't Give You Anything But Love"(my favorite) "You're Nobody Till Somebody Loves You", "Heaven Can Wait" and "I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me" are simply Dean at his best. Even the artwork is great which features the original album covers. If you own only one Dean Martin album i strongly urge that it be this one. It deserves more than 5 stars and is worth every penny! You will NOT be dissappointed!

5 out of 5 stars THE BEST OF THE BEST! 5 STARS ++++++.......2003-07-21

Deans singing style, personality, and gift of his voice really shines through on this CD. I have to say that each and every song on "This Time Im Swingin!" is perfection. On the Pretty Baby album "Its Easy To Remember" is my personal favorite. If you are interested in starting a Dean Martin collection this is the one to get and you will be hooked!

5 out of 5 stars Great Sound! Great Swing!.......2003-03-05

Wow, is this great! I can't stop listening to it! As a kid in the Seventies, I remember the aging Dean Martin who became a parody of the bad Vegas performer. This, however, is nothing like what I remember. I'm not sure what drew me to buy the CD but I'm glad I did. The crisp sound of the orchestra, the bounce in his voice. It is sooo good!

As far as Pretty Baby, the background singing isn't as bad as some reviews make it out to be. It is somewhat dated but it too is very enjoyable.

Buy the CD! You won't regret it!
Swingin' Easy
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Words just can't describe these lush, beautiful landscapes...
  • Get ready for a "treat" not a "treatment"
  • The most essential Sarah Vaughan album of the 50's
  • Only she could make it look easy.
  • A Sarah Masterpiece
 Swingin' Easy
Sarah Vaughan and Her Trio
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
Traditional Jazz GeneralTraditional Jazz General | Traditional Jazz & Ragtime | Jazz | Styles | Music
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  1. Sarah Vaughan W/ Clifford Brown
  2. After Hours
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ASIN: B0000046MH
Release Date: 1992-11-17

Tracks:

  1. Shulie A Bop
  2. Lover Man
  3. I Cried For You
  4. Polka Dots And Moonbeams
  5. All Of Me
  6. Words Can't Describe
  7. Prelude To A Kiss
  8. You Hit The Spot
  9. Pennies From Heaven
  10. If I Knew Then (What I Know Now)
  11. Body And Soul
  12. They Can't Take That Away From Me
  13. Linger Awhile

Amazon.com essential recording

Sarah Vaughan had already mastered the roots of gospel music and the intricacies of bop when her overarching talents led her to be packaged as a pop-singing canary. Fortunately her work with EmArcy allowed for some straight-ahead, unadorned jazz performance, where Vaughan's talent could shine without the frills. On Swingin' Easy, Vaughan is backed by a pair of trios, both featuring the great drummer Roy Haynes, whose supple rhythms give Vaughan's voice the context it deserves. "Shulie a Bop," "Lover Man," "All of Me," "Body and Soul" and "They Can't Take That Away from Me" are masterful performances. --John Swenson

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Words just can't describe these lush, beautiful landscapes..........2007-03-14

Sarah Vaughn could entertain her audiences so skillfully so that very few artists could ever match her. Wherever she went Sarah enjoyed a very positive rapport with her audiences; and this CD gives us much evidence of her singularly exquisite talents.

The CD also offers a special treat in that Sarah rarely performed in small groups; on this album Sarah performs with only three musicians. This allows us to focus on Sarah's voice as her own musical instrument. Hooray!

The track set opens with "Shulie A Bop;" and wow, how she scats on this number! I like how Sarah introduces the trio: for this particular number John Malachi plays piano; Joe Benjamin plays bass and Roy Haynes is on drums. Excellent!

"Lover Man" gets an especially sensitive rendition that only Sarah could make for it; and "All Of Me" is delivered with great joy by Sarah.

"You Hit The Spot" begins with Sarah crooning so sweetly; she almost recites her lines instead of singing them and this produces a sublime effect. The number then switches gears and as it speeds up you'll feel like jumping up and dancing for joy as Sarah sings of her one true love. "Pennies From Heaven" offers Sarah yet another opportunity to show off her swinging, jazzy and soulful vocal talents as she sings this to perfection. The musical arrangement shines; the trio accompanying Sarah on this number consists of Jimmy Jones on piano; Richard Davis on bass and Roy Haines on drums. Oooh, how sweet!

"Body And Soul" receives the ultimate romantic ballad treatment by Sarah and her trio; and "They Can't Take That Away From Me" lets Sarah and her trio perform the most brilliant jazzy, romantic rendition this song ever got!

The CD ends with a brief bonus number that was not released on the original LP recording. "Linger Awhile" opens with a brief jam; and as the band jams further Sarah uses her voice as a musical instrument to jam right along with them. You will enjoy this bonus track as Sarah and the musicians are in perfect synchronicity.

The liner notes include the original covert art and the original liner notes for the record album release; and Benjamin Franklin V contributes a fine essay about Sarah, too. You'll also find a great black and white photo of Sarah in the recording booth.

Sarah Vaughn remains a titan in the history of quality jazz; her voice was such a musical instrument that only a very few artists could ever touch her. I highly recommend this CD for Sarah Vaughn fans; and people who enjoy classic jazz vocals will treasure this CD.

Enjoy!

5 out of 5 stars Get ready for a "treat" not a "treatment".......2006-08-16

Sit back, relax and get ready to hear just what singing is all about. Should be in all Sarah Vaughan fans collections.

5 out of 5 stars The most essential Sarah Vaughan album of the 50's.......2005-04-03

Sarah recorded many fine albums for Emercy, back in the 50's, but "Swingin' Easy" is without a doubt her finest, with her regualr trio, and with a voice like Vaughan's a horn is not missed. The only other albums from that period that come close to this are "Vaughan & Violens" and "Sarah Vaughan & Her Trio Live"(that was 60's). This cd has Sarah doing a difinitive version of the WWII era gem, Polka Dots & Moonbeams, that I'm sure made Sinatra proud(he recorded it w/ Dorsey's swing band). An exellent cd, with the original cover artwork, taht has Sarah in a cool 1950's modern butterfly chair.

5 out of 5 stars Only she could make it look easy........2004-02-03

For me, this session ranks with "Sarah Vaughan/Clifford Brown" and "Live at Mr. Kelly's" as Sarah's most satisfying recorded work. The rhythm section format not only allows her more freedom than do the heavily orchestrated dates from this period but encourages her to conceive of her role as jazz instrumentalist rather than coloratura diva. Moreover, her voice was never better--silky yet vibrant, seamlessly continuous in all registers and devoid of any hint of wobble.

On ballads like "Prelude to a Kiss" and "Polka Dots and Moonbeams" Sarah is the song's best friend, bringing all of its melodic-lyric charms to life and requiring no more than a single pass to do so. Perhaps no further example is needed to demonstrate Sarah's mastery than "They Can't Take That Away from Me," when she not only recites but illustrates the words "off key" through her own playful intonation. And only Sarah could take ephemeral "riff" material like "You Hit the Spot" and make it sound worthy of inclusion in the Great American Songbook. But the sleeper on the program is "Words Can't Describe," an obscure song that, on the basis of Sarah's reading, should be a staple in the American Songbook.

The accompaniment is provided by two highly supportive, empathetic trios. To my ears, the walking bass lines of Joe Benjamin swing more than those provided by Richard Davis. Roy Haynes is the constant on all of the tracks, so the slightly different feel of the rhythm can't be attributed to the drummer.

I see that it's been 12 years since this CD was issued. It would be a pity if a singular session such as this were consigned to more of the "Best Of" or "Greatest Hits" anthologies that have caused us to lose sight of influential artists' most seminal projects.

5 out of 5 stars A Sarah Masterpiece.......2002-11-01

This began as a 10-inch Sarah Vaughan LP on Mercury which, as I remember, was titled "Contrasts." Eight songs. When 12-inch LPs came along, four more songs were recorded and it all became "Swingin' Easy." The original cover was a garish painting, the new cover a very hip photo of a very hip Sarah relaxing in a very hip chair. The album is also very hip. Relaxed, inspired jazz, endlessly listenable, still fresh after nearly a half-century. She never topped "Shulie-a-Bop" but everything on this album is super.
Ultra-Lounge: Wild, Cool & Swingin' - Artist Series Vol 4
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Geriatric"boy singer"
  • Paul Wall
  • Energetic, Yet Wearisome
  • Weird and Wonderful at the same time
  • I could almost hear the ice clinking in the glasses
 Ultra-Lounge: Wild, Cool & Swingin' - Artist Series Vol 4
Wayne Newton
Manufacturer: Capitol
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  4. Ultra-Lounge: Wild, Cool & Swingin' - Artist Series Vol 6
  5. Ultra-Lounge: Wild, Cool & Swingin' - Artist Series Vol 3

ASIN: B00000JCG8
Release Date: 1999-06-29

Tracks:

  1. My Kind Of Girl
  2. L-O-V-E
  3. But Not For Me
  4. Wives And Lovers
  5. Volare (Nel Blu Di Pinto Di Blu)
  6. I Left My Heart In San Fancisco
  7. They Can't Take That Away From Me
  8. More
  9. Ol' Man Mose
  10. Charade
  11. Bye Bye Blackbird
  12. Call Me Irresponsible
  13. I've Got The World On A String
  14. Strangers In The Night
  15. I'll Remember April
  16. Toot, Toot, Tootsie, Goodbye
  17. Michelle
  18. Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime
  19. Shangri-La
  20. Danke Schoen

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars Geriatric"boy singer".......2006-11-17

When Wyane Newton first burst upon the scene some forty years ago,singing"danke Schoen"and"daddy don't you walk so fast" he WAS a boy singer,with a boy's unfinished voice...He still has that same voice today,sounding for all the world like some neutered slouch crooning at the local gaybar...Newton went on to an interesting career as a one-time vegas casino mogul,he played the villian in one of leslie Neilsen's"naked Gun"movies,and currently spends a lot of his time in Branson,Missouri,the poor man's Atlantic City,singing falsetto lounge for retired housewives and other geriatrics...If this is what moderns think "lounge"is all about then they are sadly mistaken...Like Mrs Miller and quite a few other notable goof performers,these acts always were of the"NOVELTY"sort,like Jerry Lewis crooning "Rock a bye your baby with a dixie melody"...Indeed,listening to Lewis ,Newton,and Mrs Miller side by side,I find it hard to tell them apart...

5 out of 5 stars Paul Wall.......2005-03-28

Wayne Newtons album was of the heasy pho sheasy. This man tore it up from track to track...I couldnt get way from his phlow. My custom tens were pounding in the back of my street sweeper while I was ridin on my pho pho's. Wayne's voice was deeper than usual, but still, his flow set off the show fo shizzle. Last weekend I busted into the club and Newt was on and I was like "HHHHHHHEEEEEEAAAAYYYYY, Newt in the house". He really got the club bumpin. Wayne wasnt frontin, he wasnt slumpin, he was keepin it real well into the '05.

4 out of 5 stars Energetic, Yet Wearisome.......2004-03-19

I like to come home after a hard days work at the munitions plant, get a cold drink from the 'fridge, sit in my favorite chair, and listen to Wayne Newton until my microwave dinner is ready. "Toot, Toot, Tootsie, Goodbye" has got to be the best version ever recorded. "Strangers in the Night" puts the listener into a melancholy mood that Frank Sinatra's version fails to achieve. Newton is one of the most expressive male vocalists I have ever heard, but he occasionally sounds more feminine than Barbara Streisand. Hey Wayne, "Danke Schoen".

5 out of 5 stars Weird and Wonderful at the same time.......2003-03-24

After watching the movie Man on the Moon, I fell in love with the song Volare. (even though the guy wasn't serious when he sang it) I looked all over the internet trying to find a version of that song. I heard a clip and fell in love with this version. When I saw that it was Wayne Newton, I kept saying, "No way! this is a woman singing" I couldn't get over it so I bought the CD. Lo and Behold, it really was Wayne Newton. My husband and I love this CD. We are secret listeners because no one would believe that we like this kind of music. Buy the CD, you will be swing dancing in no time. You won't be able to help yourself! It is great

5 out of 5 stars I could almost hear the ice clinking in the glasses.......2002-03-10

Sip it slowly. This cd is near perfect. Relax, and turn the lights low. Because you are about to be entertained like no other swingin cat can entertain!! This cd also is the perfect cocktail music. You'll feel the lush surrounding, you'll smell the smoke, and you'll hear the ice clinking in the glasses. Frank may be the ultimate cat, but let me tell you, if you like good music from an era gone by, then this cd by wayne should be in your top 10. Enjoy. I need to refill my martini.
It's All Over but the Swingin'
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • two for the price of one
  • LET THE SWINGIN' COMMENCE!
 It's All Over but the Swingin'
Jr. Sammy Davis
Manufacturer: Mca Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00000I2OS
Release Date: 1998-11-16

Tracks:

  1. I Guess I'll Hang My Tears out to Dry
  2. But Not for Me
  3. Where's That Rainbow?
  4. I Cover the Waterfront
  5. Don't Blame Me
  6. Better Luck Next Time
  7. Can't Help Lovin' Dat Gal
  8. It Never Entered My Mind
  9. Someone to Watch over Me
  10. I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face
  11. Spring Is Here
  12. I Can't Get Started
  13. Lady Is a Tramp
  14. I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues
  15. Get on the Right Track, Baby
  16. Do Nothin' Till You Hear from Me
  17. I Got a Woman
  18. There Is No Greater Love
  19. Gee Baby, Ain't I Good to You
  20. This Little Girl of Mine
  21. Till Then
  22. Face to Face
  23. Mess Around

Album Description

Digitally remastered reissue featuring two of the late vocalist's Decca LPs together on one CD, 1957's 'It's All Over But The Swingin'' & 1960's 'I Gotta Right To Swing'. Contains the original cover art of each & all of the numbersfrom each record, including 'I Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out To Dry' & 'The Lady Is A Tramp'. 23 tracks total. 1998 MCA release.

Album Details

MCA Twofer Series. The Great Sammy Davis Jr. Swings.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars two for the price of one.......2004-12-02

two of Sammy's best Decca years' output. Particularly the second CD, "I Gotta Right To Sing", which features the Basie Band, minus The Count . Interesting contrast is this CD with the Reprise release, "Our Shining Hour", Sammy Davis-Count Basie, which is another great release. The only reason this first CD does not get five stars is because there are three tracks where Sammy sings Ray Charles songs, which are, truthfully, a bit weak (can't stand hearing him sing "rock and roll", anyway). Almost as bad as hearing him sing the theme from My Mother The Car (from the "That's All" CD), but otherwise really great.

5 out of 5 stars LET THE SWINGIN' COMMENCE!.......2002-08-03

Sammy Davis Jr. was far and away the greatest entertainer in the business...even if you went pound for pound, this little guy had it all...acting, singing, dancing, playing instruments, you name it. Here from Sammy's humble beginnings come two fantastic albums, backed by a handful of Basie alumnists (although contractual restrictions could not name them at the time for credit on either albums' liner notes) and swingin' arrangements that will leave you floored. Those of you who are fans of Sammy's more well known Reprise works will find this album a breath of fresh air and show you how he got that good (as his I've Gotta be Me or What Kind Of Fool Am I days.) Sammy handles this bundle of standards with flair and precision. There are some lesser known tunes here that come to life with Sammy's interpretations, the crafty BETTER LUCK NEXT TIME and the sly swinger FACE TO FACE. Some of the standards include a rip-roaring run through one of Sam's pallies songs THE LADY IS A TRAMP, complete with a Basie-esque tag on the ending. Ol Blue Eyes OR "Pal Joey" never knew what hit him here!
The classic Ellington theme DO NOTHIN' TILL YOU HEAR FROM ME is a lights-out, no-holds-barred swingfest. And the vocals Sammy puts across on otherwise melancholy evergreens like I COVER THE WATERFRONT and the classic Jerome Kern CANT HELP LOVIN' 'DAT GAL (man) are second to none. He is greatly helped by the swinging charts behind him on these two more than anywhere else in this collection. I can never decide which one is better when I listen to this CD, the vocals or the arrangements, but it sure is a pleasure being confused in this case! An absolutely great import, showcasing some of Sammy's earlier moments in the studio with a top notch orchestra backing him. The Candy Man was never sweeter...or swing-ier! Get this one now!
Things Are Swingin'/Jump for Joy
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Things ARE swingin' with this grand CD !!!
  • Peggy Lee ~ Things Are Swingin' / Jump For Joy [IMPORT]
  • Joyful swingin'
  • ULTIMATE NATURAL HIGH MUSIC
  • ULTIMATE NATURAL HIGH MUSIC
 Things Are Swingin'/Jump for Joy
Peggy Lee
Manufacturer: EMI Gold Imports
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000071JP
Release Date: 1996-12-06

Tracks:

  1. It's A Wonderful World
  2. Things Are Swingin'
  3. Alright, Okay, You Win
  4. Ridin' High
  5. It's Been A Long Long Time
  6. Lullaby In Rhythm
  7. Alone Together
  8. I'm Beginning To See The Light
  9. It's A Good, Good Night
  10. You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me
  11. You're Mine, You
  12. Life Is For Livin'
  13. Jump For Joy
  14. Back In Your Own Backyard
  15. When My Sugar Walks Down The Street
  16. I Hear Music
  17. Just In Time
  18. Old Devil Moon
  19. What A Little Moonlight Can Do
  20. Four Or Five Times
  21. Music! Music! Music!
  22. Cheek To Cheek
  23. The Glory Of Love
  24. Ain't We Got Fun

Album Details

Two Albums from 1958 featuring Peggy in a Swinging Mood with Orchestral Arrangements from Jack Marshall and Nelson Riddle. Digitally Remastered.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Things ARE swingin' with this grand CD !!!.......2007-03-03

Peggy Lee doesn't miss a beat on this marvelous CD. The CD contains all the tracks from two of Peggy's 1958 record albums entitled Things Are Swingin' and Jump For Joy. Peggy Lee turns out flawless numbers one by one with the help of Jack Marshall, Nelson Riddle and their Orchestras. Peggy's voice is in great form, too!

The track set contains the happiest 24 songs ever packed together on one album. The first twelve tracks are from the LP Things Are Swingin'; and they start off strong and happy with "It's A Wonderful World." The piano intro and the musical arrangement complement Peggy's singing to perfection. "Things Are Swingin'" follows with a great 1950s swing beat; and Peggy sings this with all her heart. Love those horns! Indeed, all of the songs on this CD allow Peggy to express the joys of life and love; and this chanteuse does it all as easily as if it were breathing.

One of Peggy's bigger hits follows: "Alright, Okay, You Win" sparkles with Peggy and the orchestra in total synchronicity. "Alright, Okay, You Win" is an excellent number with a certain sassy accent to the beat that makes you remember it from the very first time you hear it. Great!

Other great songs in the first twelve tracks include the romantic "It's Been A Long Long Time;" "I'm Beginning To See The Light" and "You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me." Sure, many people have heard these songs before; but when Peggy sings them she makes them fresh and new again using her natural talent and charm.

The second twelve tracks on this CD are from the record album "Jump For Joy." The title track kicks off the set. "Jump For Joy" is not only euphoric; it also has an arrangement that somewhat resembles a spiritual song you might hear in a church. "When My Sugar Walks Down The Street" gets the slow tempo treatment and Peggy makes it sweet, romantic and potent.

"I Hear Music" has a great xylophone intro; and "Just In Time" glows as Peggy performs this with great sensitivity to make it as sensual as possible. "Music! Music! Music!" also receives a slower than usual rendition that enhances the romantic lyrics; and the horns add a magnificent brilliance to the arrangement. "Cheek To Cheek" is like watching Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dance their very best on the big screen; Peggy sings this smoothly with an elegant arrangement by Nelson Riddle.

The CD ends with "The Glory Of Love" and "Ain't We Got Fun." "The Glory Of Love" has a big band style arrangement that combined with Peggy's singing makes for an instantly memorable number; and "Ain't We Got Fun" again accentuates the relentless, unrestrained happiness that Peggy explores in all the songs on this CD. Wow!

The liner notes have the original front and back cover art for the record album jackets; and you get the song credits, too.

Peggy Lee possessed the ability to lead her adoring audiences wherever she wanted them to go using her natural charm, warmth and sensitive renditions of great songs and ballads. This CD shows Peggy singing at her best with all the joy in the world coming straight from her heart. I highly recommend this CD for Peggy Lee fans; and people who love classic pop vocals will also want to get this CD.

1 out of 5 stars Peggy Lee ~ Things Are Swingin' / Jump For Joy [IMPORT].......2004-05-11

I am a huge fan of Miss Lee...but, save your money on this CD twofer as they are remastered in MONO. I have enjoyed the vinyl record of "Things Are Swingin'" for years in beautiful, full, rich STEREO. Believe me it was more then disappointing to hear it flattened out in MONO (boring!). EMI/Capitol...what a waste of time & energy, when you could have done it right...in STEREO.

5 out of 5 stars Joyful swingin'.......2004-04-25

These two LPs were remastered in mono by error. Both are now going to come out in stereo with added tracks. Still, this two-for-one set is worth getting because the mono versions of the albums were recorded at the same time but on different microphones and a different tape console from the stereo versions. So the mono and stereo versions are different in feeling. These albums came at the start of Peg's long sojourn with Capitol after "The Man I Love," a Peggy Lee album conducted by and brought to Capitol by Frank Sinatra. The sales were terrific and Peggy was back on her old label, which she'd left for Decca for several years. These early albums reflect Capitol's thinking about putting Peg in a contemporary, finger-snapping, up-tempo swinger mode. Slim and cropped she's very much the hip lady. That image would then morph into a glamour-puss for a time and that image would morph into an earth mother. Peggy outdid Madonna in her talent for reinvention! These albums are very slight in ambition and very joyful in execution. Peggy is clearly enjoying every moment swinging with the greatest studio musicians on the West Coast, singing songs she selected with her usual eye on and ear for the off-beat and forgotten. Both albums breeze by, percolating and bouyant, with the singer in perfect form, but then wasn't she always. Don't miss the next album in line, the engaging "I Like Men!" which forms the third part of a trilogy. After that the albums got much more ambitious and playtime was over except for the two Latin-beated albums, which are a story in themselves.

5 out of 5 stars ULTIMATE NATURAL HIGH MUSIC.......2003-06-19

As a fairly recent Peggy convert, I am constantly amazed at the range and quality of her recordings. There simply isn't a genre she didn't successfully conquer, while never losing her individuality and the outstanding musicianship of her albums. This combination of "Things Are Swingin'" and "Jump for Joy" has become a personal favorite simply because it is so infectiously upbeat and charming. When the opening chords of "It's A Wonderful World" kick off the CD, you can literally feel your spirits lifting. Other classic cuts include "Alright, Okay...", "It's Been A Long, Long Time", and "Back in Your Own Backyard". While many of these sides are available on the "Miss Peggy Lee" box set and the "Singles Collection", her individual albums are still worth springing for as they usually follow a theme and work as cohesive units rather than jump cuts. This 2 for 1 set is a great value; the sound remastering is excellent and fully recalls that wonderful 50's studio sound that Capitol/EMI is famous for. These albums are truly a great gift from a great musician.

5 out of 5 stars ULTIMATE NATURAL HIGH MUSIC.......2003-06-19

As a fairly recent Peggy convert, I am constantly amazed at the range and quality of her recordings. There simply isn't a genre she didn't successfully conquer, while never losing her individuality and the outstanding musicianship of her albums. This combination of "Things Are Swingin'" and "Jump for Joy" has become a personal favorite simply because it is so infectiously upbeat and charming. When the opening chords of "It's A Wonderful World" kick off the CD, you can literally feel your spirits lifting. Other classic cuts include "Alright, Okay...", "It's Been A Long, Long Time", and "Back in Your Own Backyard". While many of these sides are available on the "Miss Peggy Lee" box set and the "Singles Collection", her individual albums are still worth springing for as they usually follow a theme and work as cohesive units rather than jump cuts. This 2 for 1 set is a great value; the sound remastering is excellent and fully recalls that wonderful 50's studio sound that Capitol/EMI is famous for. These albums are truly a great gift from a great musician.
The Girls and Boys on Broadway/The Sweetest Swingin' Sounds of "No Strings"
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • THE ONE AND ONLY BILLY MAY
  • Broadway Big Band Style and without Strings
  • Superior arrangements & performance. Billy May at his best!
 The Girls and Boys on Broadway/The Sweetest Swingin' Sounds of "No Strings"
Billy May
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000006TJU
Release Date: 1999-12-28

Tracks:

  1. Girls Against the Boys
  2. My Darling
  3. If I Were a Bell
  4. Where Did We Go? Out
  5. Guys and Dolls
  6. Rich Butterfly
  7. Heart
  8. Old Fashioned Girl
  9. Till There Was You
  10. Girls and Boys
  11. I've Never Been in Love
  12. I Gotta Have You
  13. No Strings
  14. Sweetest Sounds
  15. Love Makes the World Go
  16. Nobody Told Me
  17. Loads of Love
  18. Maine
  19. Eager Beaver
  20. Look No Further
  21. Orthodox Fool
  22. La La La
  23. Man Who Has Everything
  24. Be My Host

Album Details

Two Albums on One CD from Billy May, a Man Responsible for Some of the Most Successful and Influential Arrangements in Popular Music.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars THE ONE AND ONLY BILLY MAY.......2002-10-26

The irascible Billy May, premire arranger and conductor for so many of the greats, and on his own, is presented here with two of his albums for Capitol on one great CD. May's popularity rose for his dance albums, and that got him on board at Capitol to do some arranging and conducting. A favorite of the likes of Nat King Cole and Frank Sinatra, needless to say those guys were no fools when it came to working with the best! His trademark lazy sax music and sharp brash arrangements for brass are probably the most recognizable of the era. But Billy wasn't all about swingin'; he could write a heartwarming slow ballad chart with equal ease (but somehow always found a way to get a brass blast in there somewhere!) The lusty undertones of WHERE DID WE GO? OUT! is one of the lesser known standouts on the GIRLS AND BOYS ON BROADWAY sides, which is worth the price of this CD just for the album cover (Billy May parading as a vendor selling chestnuts to the "cast kids"!) but there are other greats here, like Billy and the orchestra's reading of Frank Loesser's masterpiece GUYS AND DOLLS and the lovely TILL THERE WAS YOU from The Music Man, a tune Billy would later arrange for the great multi-octaved singer, John Gary with a similar chart.
While the NO STRINGS sides are, as my fellow reviewer mentions, not as exciting, they are still Billy May...and that means original and inventive, if nothing else! I love what is done with the charming LOOK NO FURTHER. The mood is perfectly captured and the slightest essence of swing is there (complete with the aforementioned "brass blast" on the bridge!) and the smart version of THE MAN WHO HAS EVERYTHING is also not to be missed. MAINE and LOVE MAKES THE WORLD GO are two more of Richard Rodgers' fine songs that make the NO STRINGS sides valuable. Great "two-fer" to have in your collection!

3 out of 5 stars Broadway Big Band Style and without Strings.......2001-04-24

Billy May meets Broadway in this Big Band send-off of some of the Great White Way's classic selections. The first album on this CD twofer finds May conducting a rich brass section that raises the volume on Till There Was You and Heart. The second album, The Sweetest Swingin Sounds of 'No Strings,' is May's take on the Richard Rodgers 1962 musical "No Strings," in which Rodgers composed all tunes with only brass, reeds and percussions. On the downside, the show tunes tend to be overly arranged and May's blaring brass section seems to overwhelm most selections.

5 out of 5 stars Superior arrangements & performance. Billy May at his best!.......1999-04-29

I purchased the 12" LP when it first appeared in the late fifties...the sound is brass that bites along with Billy's slurping sax sounds. The stereo set-up has brass right reeds left and rhythm center. Capitol knew some stuff about recording big bands...and it shows. Absolutly superp! The second album from NO STRINGS does not come off as well, but buy for GIRLS & BOYS. The first 12 tracks are a workout for your stereo system.
Hello Young Lovers: Swingin Down the Lane
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		Hello Young Lovers: Swingin Down the Lane
    Richard Maltby
    Manufacturer: Collectables
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    GeneralGeneral | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music
    Easy ListeningEasy Listening | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music
    Similar Items:
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    2. Road Band
    3. Swinging Sounds of the Great Bands

    ASIN: B00006LETV
    Release Date: 2002-11-19

    Tracks:

    1. Swingin' Down The Lane
    2. Cheek To Cheek
    3. Spring Will Be A Little Late This Year
    4. East Of The Sun (And West Of The Moon)
    5. Love Is Here To Stay
    6. Spring Is Here
    7. So In Love
    8. I Married An Angel
    9. A Foggy Day
    10. Isn't It Romantic
    11. When I Fall In Love
    12. All The Things You Are
    13. There Will Never Be Another You
    14. You And The Night And The Music
    15. Fools Rush In (Where Angels Fear To Tread)
    16. The Touch Of Your Lips
    17. It's A Pity To Say Goodnight
    18. A Lovely Way To Spend An Evening
    19. The Night Is Young And You're So Beautiful
    20. You Are My Lucky Star
    21. I'll Get By
    22. Stay As Sweet As You Are
    23. Morgen (One More Sunrise)
    24. Theme From "The Fbi Story" (What Do I Care)
    25. At The Hop
    26. Quiet Cha Cha
    27. The Ballad Of Al Capone
    28. Don't Go Home
    29. Ain't She Sweet
    30. Come Prima

    Album Description

    Richard Maltby worked as an arranger for Paul Whiteman in the late 1930s before working for Benny Goodman - and writing his hit, "Six Flats Unfurnished." He formed his own band in the 1950s, and recorded several LPs, including these two he did for Columbia. During this time, he recorded for many different labels, and directed backings for Peggy Lee, Sarah Vaughan, Johnnie Ray, Vic Damone and Ethel Merman. Maltby later became Lawrence Welk's arranger and conductor.

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    Music

    Music