Calender Girl / Your Number [Import] [Original recording remastered]

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
1997 EMI release, a two-on-one for two excellent '50s albumsby the vocalist/ actress: 1956's top 20 'Calendar Girl' features her singing a tune about each month of the year; 1959's 'Your Number Please' is a tribute to male stars via covers of pop standards like 'Makin' Whoopee', 'When I Fall In Love', 'One For My Baby' & 'A Stranger In Town'. Andre Previn arranged & conducted all of the tracks on it as well.25 tracks total, all digitally remastered.

Customer Reviews:

Two very different LPs on one CD.......2001-12-13

There is another listing on Amazon for this "two-fer CD" - an import from the UK - that is more readily available that this one. Whichever one you buy, you've got a treat in store.

The first LP represented, "Calendar Girl", is a nice mixture of easy swinging numbers and ballads. Julie's vocal chops were in top form, and the phrasing impeccible. Phil King, the arranger, provides worthy backing without trying to steal the spotlight. The backing chorous gets a little obnoxious, but it's typical 50's. Of the two LPs, "Calendar" is more immediately likeable. (note: this one is monaural, but the next one is stereo.)

Andre Previn, the arranger on the second LP "Your Number Please", heavily weighs the program in favor of ballads ("Makin' Whoopee" is a delightful exception) with lush string backing which would overwhelm a lesser singer. Julie's voice is huskier, but just as strong and if anything her phrasing is even better. Producer/husband Bobby Troup (same producer for both LPs) bathes her voice in reverb throughout the program which, for me, ruins it - at least at first. Because the mood is so perfect, though, it grows on you after a few listenings.

The choice of songs, and Julie's intention, are first-rate throughout both programs. It's great that these are available once again.

Music:

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