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Product Description
My Way: the Best of Frank Sinatra collects 46 tracks culled from the estimable American singer's vast back-catalogue for a remarkable two-CD set. Sinatra was one of the greatest voices of his--or any--generation, and for the most part, these songs are some of Old Blue Eyes' finest works: among the best are "Come Fly with Me", "Lady Is a Tramp" and "I Get a Kick out of You". But with such an immense and classic back-catalogue of songs to choose from, it's a shame that the compilers felt it necessary to add so much cheese: "Bad, Bad Leroy Brown" and "Mrs Robinson", for example, don't do Sinatra, the songs, or the listener any justice. Still, that's why CD players have "skip" buttons. --Robert Burrow
Customer Reviews
Undoubtedly the best Frank Sinatra compilation available!, 29 Mar 2008
This is an excellent update of the previously released "My Way: The Best pf Frank Sinatra": the record company have added a whole new CD! The single album was already terrific value for money, containing as it did Frank's best loved and most well known songs but the addition of the extra CD has made this an indispensable album for anyone wanting to add some Frank Sinatra to their CD collection - it just beats all the other competition clean out of sight!
If Sinatra fun, gotta have this one!, 20 Jan 2008
Definitely this double album is one of the best compilations of an artist. This double CD contains some of the best song recordings of Frank, and includes all of his best songs, in just the right price. "Something Stupid" sang with his daughter Nancy, was to me a very pleasant surprised, as i never heard this recording before. Seriously, people who are not fun of Sinatra or 60s music of this kind, did not complain listening to both CDs playing one after the other ;)
The best 'best of'.........., 11 Aug 2007
I've had this cd for a while now, it's one I listen to when I want to relax (along with Andrea Bocelli).
I got this purely based on the songs I saw featured & the fact that I reliased my musical taste was changing fast. I played this a lot over Christmas & it really helped me chill out - c'mon girls, you all know what Christmas is like for the lady of the house!!!! *:-D
I'd recommend this album to anyone - especially if it's the only Frank Sinatra cd you plan on buying - it's definately got the 'best of' on this 'best of....' which is unusual (most fo the time it's random & you like a few of the 'best of' tracks!)
Highly recommended CD!
Frank's Way, 14 Jul 2007
My Way: The Best Of Frank Sinatra collects together all of his hits from the Reprise years. But that is not all, most of Frank's best known songs are here as well. Masterpieces such as I've Got You Under My Skin, I Get A Kick Out Of You, Come Fly With Me etc. But these Capitol era classics are all re-recordings from albums such as Sinatra's Sinatra, Sinatra and Swingin' Brass etc. So if your looking for the original Capitol pieces your best bet is the excellent Platinum Collection or all his great albums from that period. However these re-recordings are still pretty good. Nelson Riddle tweaks his arrangement for Under My Skin and Neal Hefti comes up with some briilant arrangements for I Get A Kick Out Of You and Pennies From Heaven matching or prehaps even bettering the orignals. This album is a great intro to Sinatra giving you all his hits on two discs. If your already a fan chances are you already own most of these recordings. If not then this is a great way to get them all. While the re-recordings may not be to everyone's taste it's still a good album. However I do feel that some songs have been missed out, I personally would have liked to have seen more of the Sinatra-Basie albums (represented here by The Best Is Yet To Come and Pennies From Hevean). Prehaps if Reprise had collaborated with Capitol (as they did with the Romance 2 disc cd) then the album would have felt more definitive.
Disappointing, sluggish versions!!!, 04 Jul 2007
When I first looked at the list of songs you get on this double CD album I was really impressed. I didn't think I could go wrong with so many classics included. But..... I have just listened to it (I received it this morning) and I'm afraid I am going to list it on Ebay straight away. I was expecting to get an album with all original recordings but unfortunately it is a collection of half-hearted versions. I was expecting the 'full of life' and 'uplifting' ones you hear, say, on the adverts on telly. Oh no! The versions on this album are far from likely to put a spring in your step. The orchestra seems to drown out Sinatra's voice in almost every track and I was particularly disappointed with 'Mack the Knife' which is my favourite. It usually never fails to make my toe tap away but this time it just made me feel a bit sleepy and bored. Like I said before - nice track list, but they're all a bit lifeless. I am now off to buy his other 'Best of' album from 1997. Wish me luck!?!
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Michael Buble
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Michael Buble;
Wea;
2003-09-29;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days *Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £4.88
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Product Description
Pop's rush to raid the cradle continues with this promising, self-titled debut by 25-year-old Canadian singer Michael Bublé. And while the young vocal star's good looks are smart enough for a boy band, his muse seems to have sprung from a more sassy and compelling musical era. Mentored by Paul Anka (whose 1950s hit "Put Your Head on My Shoulder" is covered in dreamy, cabaret fashion here), Bublé sings in the orbits of Darin and Sinatra, covering swing epoch gems ("Come Fly with Me", "The Way You Look Tonight", "That's All") and rock-era standards (Van Morrison's "Moondance", "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart" by the Brothers Gibb, Queen's "Crazy Little Thing Called Love") with equal aplomb. David Foster's production is typically slick and played to the back row of the bleachers, but it's informed by smart contexts provided by such arrangers as Johnny Mandel, Randy Waldman and Mike Melvoin. If the choices of material are sometimes staid and predictable, they also give the singer a crucial framework for building toward something more challenging; his is a bright future. --Jerry McCulley
Customer Reviews
Undoubtedly the best Frank Sinatra compilation available!, 29 Mar 2008
This is an excellent update of the previously released "My Way: The Best pf Frank Sinatra": the record company have added a whole new CD! The single album was already terrific value for money, containing as it did Frank's best loved and most well known songs but the addition of the extra CD has made this an indispensable album for anyone wanting to add some Frank Sinatra to their CD collection - it just beats all the other competition clean out of sight!
If Sinatra fun, gotta have this one!, 20 Jan 2008
Definitely this double album is one of the best compilations of an artist. This double CD contains some of the best song recordings of Frank, and includes all of his best songs, in just the right price. "Something Stupid" sang with his daughter Nancy, was to me a very pleasant surprised, as i never heard this recording before. Seriously, people who are not fun of Sinatra or 60s music of this kind, did not complain listening to both CDs playing one after the other ;)
The best 'best of'.........., 11 Aug 2007
I've had this cd for a while now, it's one I listen to when I want to relax (along with Andrea Bocelli).
I got this purely based on the songs I saw featured & the fact that I reliased my musical taste was changing fast. I played this a lot over Christmas & it really helped me chill out - c'mon girls, you all know what Christmas is like for the lady of the house!!!! *:-D
I'd recommend this album to anyone - especially if it's the only Frank Sinatra cd you plan on buying - it's definately got the 'best of' on this 'best of....' which is unusual (most fo the time it's random & you like a few of the 'best of' tracks!)
Highly recommended CD!
Frank's Way, 14 Jul 2007
My Way: The Best Of Frank Sinatra collects together all of his hits from the Reprise years. But that is not all, most of Frank's best known songs are here as well. Masterpieces such as I've Got You Under My Skin, I Get A Kick Out Of You, Come Fly With Me etc. But these Capitol era classics are all re-recordings from albums such as Sinatra's Sinatra, Sinatra and Swingin' Brass etc. So if your looking for the original Capitol pieces your best bet is the excellent Platinum Collection or all his great albums from that period. However these re-recordings are still pretty good. Nelson Riddle tweaks his arrangement for Under My Skin and Neal Hefti comes up with some briilant arrangements for I Get A Kick Out Of You and Pennies From Heaven matching or prehaps even bettering the orignals. This album is a great intro to Sinatra giving you all his hits on two discs. If your already a fan chances are you already own most of these recordings. If not then this is a great way to get them all. While the re-recordings may not be to everyone's taste it's still a good album. However I do feel that some songs have been missed out, I personally would have liked to have seen more of the Sinatra-Basie albums (represented here by The Best Is Yet To Come and Pennies From Hevean). Prehaps if Reprise had collaborated with Capitol (as they did with the Romance 2 disc cd) then the album would have felt more definitive.
Disappointing, sluggish versions!!!, 04 Jul 2007
When I first looked at the list of songs you get on this double CD album I was really impressed. I didn't think I could go wrong with so many classics included. But..... I have just listened to it (I received it this morning) and I'm afraid I am going to list it on Ebay straight away. I was expecting to get an album with all original recordings but unfortunately it is a collection of half-hearted versions. I was expecting the 'full of life' and 'uplifting' ones you hear, say, on the adverts on telly. Oh no! The versions on this album are far from likely to put a spring in your step. The orchestra seems to drown out Sinatra's voice in almost every track and I was particularly disappointed with 'Mack the Knife' which is my favourite. It usually never fails to make my toe tap away but this time it just made me feel a bit sleepy and bored. Like I said before - nice track list, but they're all a bit lifeless. I am now off to buy his other 'Best of' album from 1997. Wish me luck!?!
Simply the best and a bargain, 26 Feb 2008
I have owned this CD for more than 3 years and it is still the best Buble has ever done. I saw him sing most of the tracks at Ronnie Scotts and even now my friends accompanying me that night still talk fondly of the occasion. At this bargain price (feb 2008) you cannot afford to be without it. Everyone will ask you who is singing it. It is just wonderful music. All the songs are beautifully arranged and exceptionally well sung. I listen to it again and again without tiring of it.
Bringing jazz and swing to a new generation!, 04 Feb 2008
As an eighteen year old girl from North London it's not very often i hear jazz or swing music, and to be honest i had never even bothered before. When this album was first released i heard it at a dance class i attended and it got me hooked on Michael Buble and jazz and swing as entire genres of music.
The orchesteral arrangements are good but the outstanding quality of Michael Buble's voice is what sold it to me. He has great phrasing, vocal tone and a fantastic, emotional delivery which makes you feel like every word is being sung to you alone. His voice gives me goosebumps and makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
After buying this CD i began listening to the true legends such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and in my opinion Michael Buble matches both of these. I have since bought his other albums and lent them to friends who too have become hooked. I could never grow tired of listening to him sing and all his albums are constantly on repeat in my car. Michael Buble has delivered jazz and swing to a whole new generation!
Hooray for Bublé!, 13 Jun 2007
This is the debut album from Canadian singer Michael Buble.
It lasts 49 minutes in total, and has 13 songs:
1. FEVER.
Buble's cover of Peggy lee's cover of Little Willie John's song {!}
The song begins with a double bass {always a good sign!} then builds into a big band stomper! 10/10.
2. MOONDANCE.
Buble's version of Van Morrisons 70's hit.
Possibly the best song on the album. The music alone is fabulous, Buble's vocals make it even better! 10/10.
3. KISSING A FOOL.
Buble's cover of George Michaels song.
Great use of the piano 9/10.
4. FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE.
Buble's version of Stevie Wonders song. Slower than his version, but equally as good {if not better!} 10/10.
5. HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART.
Buble's cover of The Bee Gees hit - 8/10.
6. SUMMER WIND.
Buble's version of Frank Sinatra's song.
This song reminds me of MACK THE KNIFE, great saxophone solo - 9/10.
7. YOULL NEVER FIND A LOVE LIKE MINE.
Buble's cover of the song first sung by Lou Rawls.
It has an aura of a James Bond song about it! good backing vocals - 9/10.
8. CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE.
Buble's version of the Queen song.
Its fab & totally different to the original - 10/10.
9. PUT YOUR HEAD ON MY SHOULDER.
Buble's cover of Paul Ankas song.
Romantic & tender, a totally relaxing song - 10/10.
10. SWAY.
Buble's version of the Dean Martin song.
Sensational! 10/10.
11. THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT.
Buble's superb cover of the Frank Sinatra song - 10/10.
12. COME FLY WITH ME.
Buble's version of the Frank Sinatra song.
Buble was born to sing this song - 10/10.
13. THATS ALL.
Buble's cover of the Frank Sinatra song.
Sexy! 10/10.
I bought this album after hearing Torvill and Dean dance to Buble's version of MOONDANCE on ITV 1. The song was stuck in my head for days!
If you or someone you know adores the big band sound, or you're just a fan of great music, then this album is for you.
Buble makes all the songs on this album his own, and even people who are'nt fond of the Rat Pack sound will undoubtedly be converted!
A perfect valentines day / anniversary gift,
Utterly fabulous!
relax relax, 08 Nov 2006
this is one cd that you can totally relax and unwind to.there is not one song that is not brilliant.i heard this cd while on holiday in spain in july o6. as soon as i came back i searched the net for it.certainly a cd that all ages can listen to.BRILLIANT.
Most enjoyable singer, 24 Feb 2006
This is my second MB CD - awesome! He is excellent in his phrasing, vocal tone and delivery; he must have been practising hard whilst out at sea fishing, singing his crewmates silly! This boy's got the whole package - wow. Buy it and hear him for yourself!
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Customer Reviews
Undoubtedly the best Frank Sinatra compilation available!, 29 Mar 2008
This is an excellent update of the previously released "My Way: The Best pf Frank Sinatra": the record company have added a whole new CD! The single album was already terrific value for money, containing as it did Frank's best loved and most well known songs but the addition of the extra CD has made this an indispensable album for anyone wanting to add some Frank Sinatra to their CD collection - it just beats all the other competition clean out of sight!
If Sinatra fun, gotta have this one!, 20 Jan 2008
Definitely this double album is one of the best compilations of an artist. This double CD contains some of the best song recordings of Frank, and includes all of his best songs, in just the right price. "Something Stupid" sang with his daughter Nancy, was to me a very pleasant surprised, as i never heard this recording before. Seriously, people who are not fun of Sinatra or 60s music of this kind, did not complain listening to both CDs playing one after the other ;)
The best 'best of'.........., 11 Aug 2007
I've had this cd for a while now, it's one I listen to when I want to relax (along with Andrea Bocelli).
I got this purely based on the songs I saw featured & the fact that I reliased my musical taste was changing fast. I played this a lot over Christmas & it really helped me chill out - c'mon girls, you all know what Christmas is like for the lady of the house!!!! *:-D
I'd recommend this album to anyone - especially if it's the only Frank Sinatra cd you plan on buying - it's definately got the 'best of' on this 'best of....' which is unusual (most fo the time it's random & you like a few of the 'best of' tracks!)
Highly recommended CD!
Frank's Way, 14 Jul 2007
My Way: The Best Of Frank Sinatra collects together all of his hits from the Reprise years. But that is not all, most of Frank's best known songs are here as well. Masterpieces such as I've Got You Under My Skin, I Get A Kick Out Of You, Come Fly With Me etc. But these Capitol era classics are all re-recordings from albums such as Sinatra's Sinatra, Sinatra and Swingin' Brass etc. So if your looking for the original Capitol pieces your best bet is the excellent Platinum Collection or all his great albums from that period. However these re-recordings are still pretty good. Nelson Riddle tweaks his arrangement for Under My Skin and Neal Hefti comes up with some briilant arrangements for I Get A Kick Out Of You and Pennies From Heaven matching or prehaps even bettering the orignals. This album is a great intro to Sinatra giving you all his hits on two discs. If your already a fan chances are you already own most of these recordings. If not then this is a great way to get them all. While the re-recordings may not be to everyone's taste it's still a good album. However I do feel that some songs have been missed out, I personally would have liked to have seen more of the Sinatra-Basie albums (represented here by The Best Is Yet To Come and Pennies From Hevean). Prehaps if Reprise had collaborated with Capitol (as they did with the Romance 2 disc cd) then the album would have felt more definitive.
Disappointing, sluggish versions!!!, 04 Jul 2007
When I first looked at the list of songs you get on this double CD album I was really impressed. I didn't think I could go wrong with so many classics included. But..... I have just listened to it (I received it this morning) and I'm afraid I am going to list it on Ebay straight away. I was expecting to get an album with all original recordings but unfortunately it is a collection of half-hearted versions. I was expecting the 'full of life' and 'uplifting' ones you hear, say, on the adverts on telly. Oh no! The versions on this album are far from likely to put a spring in your step. The orchestra seems to drown out Sinatra's voice in almost every track and I was particularly disappointed with 'Mack the Knife' which is my favourite. It usually never fails to make my toe tap away but this time it just made me feel a bit sleepy and bored. Like I said before - nice track list, but they're all a bit lifeless. I am now off to buy his other 'Best of' album from 1997. Wish me luck!?!
Simply the best and a bargain, 26 Feb 2008
I have owned this CD for more than 3 years and it is still the best Buble has ever done. I saw him sing most of the tracks at Ronnie Scotts and even now my friends accompanying me that night still talk fondly of the occasion. At this bargain price (feb 2008) you cannot afford to be without it. Everyone will ask you who is singing it. It is just wonderful music. All the songs are beautifully arranged and exceptionally well sung. I listen to it again and again without tiring of it.
Bringing jazz and swing to a new generation!, 04 Feb 2008
As an eighteen year old girl from North London it's not very often i hear jazz or swing music, and to be honest i had never even bothered before. When this album was first released i heard it at a dance class i attended and it got me hooked on Michael Buble and jazz and swing as entire genres of music.
The orchesteral arrangements are good but the outstanding quality of Michael Buble's voice is what sold it to me. He has great phrasing, vocal tone and a fantastic, emotional delivery which makes you feel like every word is being sung to you alone. His voice gives me goosebumps and makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
After buying this CD i began listening to the true legends such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and in my opinion Michael Buble matches both of these. I have since bought his other albums and lent them to friends who too have become hooked. I could never grow tired of listening to him sing and all his albums are constantly on repeat in my car. Michael Buble has delivered jazz and swing to a whole new generation!
Hooray for Bublé!, 13 Jun 2007
This is the debut album from Canadian singer Michael Buble.
It lasts 49 minutes in total, and has 13 songs:
1. FEVER.
Buble's cover of Peggy lee's cover of Little Willie John's song {!}
The song begins with a double bass {always a good sign!} then builds into a big band stomper! 10/10.
2. MOONDANCE.
Buble's version of Van Morrisons 70's hit.
Possibly the best song on the album. The music alone is fabulous, Buble's vocals make it even better! 10/10.
3. KISSING A FOOL.
Buble's cover of George Michaels song.
Great use of the piano 9/10.
4. FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE.
Buble's version of Stevie Wonders song. Slower than his version, but equally as good {if not better!} 10/10.
5. HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART.
Buble's cover of The Bee Gees hit - 8/10.
6. SUMMER WIND.
Buble's version of Frank Sinatra's song.
This song reminds me of MACK THE KNIFE, great saxophone solo - 9/10.
7. YOULL NEVER FIND A LOVE LIKE MINE.
Buble's cover of the song first sung by Lou Rawls.
It has an aura of a James Bond song about it! good backing vocals - 9/10.
8. CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE.
Buble's version of the Queen song.
Its fab & totally different to the original - 10/10.
9. PUT YOUR HEAD ON MY SHOULDER.
Buble's cover of Paul Ankas song.
Romantic & tender, a totally relaxing song - 10/10.
10. SWAY.
Buble's version of the Dean Martin song.
Sensational! 10/10.
11. THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT.
Buble's superb cover of the Frank Sinatra song - 10/10.
12. COME FLY WITH ME.
Buble's version of the Frank Sinatra song.
Buble was born to sing this song - 10/10.
13. THATS ALL.
Buble's cover of the Frank Sinatra song.
Sexy! 10/10.
I bought this album after hearing Torvill and Dean dance to Buble's version of MOONDANCE on ITV 1. The song was stuck in my head for days!
If you or someone you know adores the big band sound, or you're just a fan of great music, then this album is for you.
Buble makes all the songs on this album his own, and even people who are'nt fond of the Rat Pack sound will undoubtedly be converted!
A perfect valentines day / anniversary gift,
Utterly fabulous!
relax relax, 08 Nov 2006
this is one cd that you can totally relax and unwind to.there is not one song that is not brilliant.i heard this cd while on holiday in spain in july o6. as soon as i came back i searched the net for it.certainly a cd that all ages can listen to.BRILLIANT.
Most enjoyable singer, 24 Feb 2006
This is my second MB CD - awesome! He is excellent in his phrasing, vocal tone and delivery; he must have been practising hard whilst out at sea fishing, singing his crewmates silly! This boy's got the whole package - wow. Buy it and hear him for yourself!
If you're sick of "Slade" and Wizzard", give this a go!!, 26 Oct 2007
This is my favourite Christmas CD, it has something for everyone! It's the perfect antidote for the tired old tunes that everyone plays at Christmas (if I hear "I wish it could be Christmas every day" one more time I won't be responsible for my actions), the highlights being "Zat you Santa Claus?" by Louis Armstrong and "Silent Night" by Dinah Washington.
Give it a go and you won't be disappointed, especially at this price!!
A nice Christmas collection, 10 Nov 2004
My wife and I enjoy this collection. There is a little traditional, a little modern, some soulful, some fun. A relaxing mix of music to settle down with.
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Songs for Swingin' Lovers
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Frank Sinatra;
Capitol;
1992-11-02;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days *Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £2.77
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Product Description
Sinatra already had one youthful career behind him by the time he made Songs for Swingin' Lovers!. His were no longer the lustrous pipes of the kid crooner from Hoboken--the voice that made bobbysoxers swoon--but from the first notes of the opening track ("You Make Me Feel So Young"), he seems to have discovered a musical fountain of youth that fully justifies the exclamation point in the album title. There is a buoyant new spring in his step, accented by Nelson Riddle's lighter-than-air arrangements, that makes the Columbia records of Sinatra's younger days sound stiff and stodgy in comparison. Even chestnuts like "Old Devil Moon", "Pennies from Heaven", "Makin' Whoopee" and "Anything Goes" are rejuvenated by his vibrant touch. Put this alongside his previous Capitol album, In the Wee Small Hours, and you have the definitive statements by both sides of Sinatra's mature musical personality: the lonely "saloon singer" and the swaggering, sophisticated swinger. Sinatra's carefree confidence achieves its supreme expression in "I've Got You Under My Skin" a performance that builds steadily to an ecstatic climax. Cole Porter may have hated his lyrical embellishments, but by the time the singer jauntily breaks the "fourth wall" on "Anything Goes" ("May I say before this records spins to a close..."), you can't deny that he's taken the title to heart. --Jim Emerson
Customer Reviews
Undoubtedly the best Frank Sinatra compilation available!, 29 Mar 2008
This is an excellent update of the previously released "My Way: The Best pf Frank Sinatra": the record company have added a whole new CD! The single album was already terrific value for money, containing as it did Frank's best loved and most well known songs but the addition of the extra CD has made this an indispensable album for anyone wanting to add some Frank Sinatra to their CD collection - it just beats all the other competition clean out of sight!
If Sinatra fun, gotta have this one!, 20 Jan 2008
Definitely this double album is one of the best compilations of an artist. This double CD contains some of the best song recordings of Frank, and includes all of his best songs, in just the right price. "Something Stupid" sang with his daughter Nancy, was to me a very pleasant surprised, as i never heard this recording before. Seriously, people who are not fun of Sinatra or 60s music of this kind, did not complain listening to both CDs playing one after the other ;)
The best 'best of'.........., 11 Aug 2007
I've had this cd for a while now, it's one I listen to when I want to relax (along with Andrea Bocelli).
I got this purely based on the songs I saw featured & the fact that I reliased my musical taste was changing fast. I played this a lot over Christmas & it really helped me chill out - c'mon girls, you all know what Christmas is like for the lady of the house!!!! *:-D
I'd recommend this album to anyone - especially if it's the only Frank Sinatra cd you plan on buying - it's definately got the 'best of' on this 'best of....' which is unusual (most fo the time it's random & you like a few of the 'best of' tracks!)
Highly recommended CD!
Frank's Way, 14 Jul 2007
My Way: The Best Of Frank Sinatra collects together all of his hits from the Reprise years. But that is not all, most of Frank's best known songs are here as well. Masterpieces such as I've Got You Under My Skin, I Get A Kick Out Of You, Come Fly With Me etc. But these Capitol era classics are all re-recordings from albums such as Sinatra's Sinatra, Sinatra and Swingin' Brass etc. So if your looking for the original Capitol pieces your best bet is the excellent Platinum Collection or all his great albums from that period. However these re-recordings are still pretty good. Nelson Riddle tweaks his arrangement for Under My Skin and Neal Hefti comes up with some briilant arrangements for I Get A Kick Out Of You and Pennies From Heaven matching or prehaps even bettering the orignals. This album is a great intro to Sinatra giving you all his hits on two discs. If your already a fan chances are you already own most of these recordings. If not then this is a great way to get them all. While the re-recordings may not be to everyone's taste it's still a good album. However I do feel that some songs have been missed out, I personally would have liked to have seen more of the Sinatra-Basie albums (represented here by The Best Is Yet To Come and Pennies From Hevean). Prehaps if Reprise had collaborated with Capitol (as they did with the Romance 2 disc cd) then the album would have felt more definitive.
Disappointing, sluggish versions!!!, 04 Jul 2007
When I first looked at the list of songs you get on this double CD album I was really impressed. I didn't think I could go wrong with so many classics included. But..... I have just listened to it (I received it this morning) and I'm afraid I am going to list it on Ebay straight away. I was expecting to get an album with all original recordings but unfortunately it is a collection of half-hearted versions. I was expecting the 'full of life' and 'uplifting' ones you hear, say, on the adverts on telly. Oh no! The versions on this album are far from likely to put a spring in your step. The orchestra seems to drown out Sinatra's voice in almost every track and I was particularly disappointed with 'Mack the Knife' which is my favourite. It usually never fails to make my toe tap away but this time it just made me feel a bit sleepy and bored. Like I said before - nice track list, but they're all a bit lifeless. I am now off to buy his other 'Best of' album from 1997. Wish me luck!?!
Simply the best and a bargain, 26 Feb 2008
I have owned this CD for more than 3 years and it is still the best Buble has ever done. I saw him sing most of the tracks at Ronnie Scotts and even now my friends accompanying me that night still talk fondly of the occasion. At this bargain price (feb 2008) you cannot afford to be without it. Everyone will ask you who is singing it. It is just wonderful music. All the songs are beautifully arranged and exceptionally well sung. I listen to it again and again without tiring of it.
Bringing jazz and swing to a new generation!, 04 Feb 2008
As an eighteen year old girl from North London it's not very often i hear jazz or swing music, and to be honest i had never even bothered before. When this album was first released i heard it at a dance class i attended and it got me hooked on Michael Buble and jazz and swing as entire genres of music.
The orchesteral arrangements are good but the outstanding quality of Michael Buble's voice is what sold it to me. He has great phrasing, vocal tone and a fantastic, emotional delivery which makes you feel like every word is being sung to you alone. His voice gives me goosebumps and makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
After buying this CD i began listening to the true legends such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and in my opinion Michael Buble matches both of these. I have since bought his other albums and lent them to friends who too have become hooked. I could never grow tired of listening to him sing and all his albums are constantly on repeat in my car. Michael Buble has delivered jazz and swing to a whole new generation!
Hooray for Bublé!, 13 Jun 2007
This is the debut album from Canadian singer Michael Buble.
It lasts 49 minutes in total, and has 13 songs:
1. FEVER.
Buble's cover of Peggy lee's cover of Little Willie John's song {!}
The song begins with a double bass {always a good sign!} then builds into a big band stomper! 10/10.
2. MOONDANCE.
Buble's version of Van Morrisons 70's hit.
Possibly the best song on the album. The music alone is fabulous, Buble's vocals make it even better! 10/10.
3. KISSING A FOOL.
Buble's cover of George Michaels song.
Great use of the piano 9/10.
4. FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE.
Buble's version of Stevie Wonders song. Slower than his version, but equally as good {if not better!} 10/10.
5. HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART.
Buble's cover of The Bee Gees hit - 8/10.
6. SUMMER WIND.
Buble's version of Frank Sinatra's song.
This song reminds me of MACK THE KNIFE, great saxophone solo - 9/10.
7. YOULL NEVER FIND A LOVE LIKE MINE.
Buble's cover of the song first sung by Lou Rawls.
It has an aura of a James Bond song about it! good backing vocals - 9/10.
8. CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE.
Buble's version of the Queen song.
Its fab & totally different to the original - 10/10.
9. PUT YOUR HEAD ON MY SHOULDER.
Buble's cover of Paul Ankas song.
Romantic & tender, a totally relaxing song - 10/10.
10. SWAY.
Buble's version of the Dean Martin song.
Sensational! 10/10.
11. THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT.
Buble's superb cover of the Frank Sinatra song - 10/10.
12. COME FLY WITH ME.
Buble's version of the Frank Sinatra song.
Buble was born to sing this song - 10/10.
13. THATS ALL.
Buble's cover of the Frank Sinatra song.
Sexy! 10/10.
I bought this album after hearing Torvill and Dean dance to Buble's version of MOONDANCE on ITV 1. The song was stuck in my head for days!
If you or someone you know adores the big band sound, or you're just a fan of great music, then this album is for you.
Buble makes all the songs on this album his own, and even people who are'nt fond of the Rat Pack sound will undoubtedly be converted!
A perfect valentines day / anniversary gift,
Utterly fabulous!
relax relax, 08 Nov 2006
this is one cd that you can totally relax and unwind to.there is not one song that is not brilliant.i heard this cd while on holiday in spain in july o6. as soon as i came back i searched the net for it.certainly a cd that all ages can listen to.BRILLIANT.
Most enjoyable singer, 24 Feb 2006
This is my second MB CD - awesome! He is excellent in his phrasing, vocal tone and delivery; he must have been practising hard whilst out at sea fishing, singing his crewmates silly! This boy's got the whole package - wow. Buy it and hear him for yourself!
If you're sick of "Slade" and Wizzard", give this a go!!, 26 Oct 2007
This is my favourite Christmas CD, it has something for everyone! It's the perfect antidote for the tired old tunes that everyone plays at Christmas (if I hear "I wish it could be Christmas every day" one more time I won't be responsible for my actions), the highlights being "Zat you Santa Claus?" by Louis Armstrong and "Silent Night" by Dinah Washington.
Give it a go and you won't be disappointed, especially at this price!!
A nice Christmas collection, 10 Nov 2004
My wife and I enjoy this collection. There is a little traditional, a little modern, some soulful, some fun. A relaxing mix of music to settle down with.
Sinatra at his sparkling best, 02 Nov 2008
This album is simply Sinatra at his very best. If, like me, you starting listening to Sinatra because you liked his classics, like New York New York and My Way, then you are in for a real treat. As good as the above are, this album showcases Sinatra's special talent. Each track is given the treatment, he carries the beat and your feet just cannot stop tapping.
The album is without doubt one of his very best. No Sinatra collection would be complete without it.
Sublime , 16 May 2008
The words "classic album" are frequently used. In some albums it's justified (The Beatles - Revolver, Michael Jackson - Thriller, Iron Maiden - Number Of The Beast, Dusty Springfield - Dusty In Memphis).
In some it's not (Pink Floyd - Dark Side Of The Moon, The Beatles - Sgt Pepper, Radiohead - The Bends, Westside Story Soundtrack).
However, Songs For Swinging Lovers is without doubt, up there with the greats. From start to finish, it is pure perfection. You Make Me Feel So Young, I've Got You Under My Skin, To Marvelous For Words, How About You......
Sinatra is a very understated singer, he doesn't have to try and be athletic; the words just roll off his tongue and his clarity and diction are perfect.
Nelson Riddle is associated with this album almost as much as Sinatra. The arrangements are wondeful and are played by the very best musicians.
Songs For Swinging Lovers is an essential purchase for any music fan.
Sinatra and Riddle record "I've Got You Under My Skin", 08 Oct 2005
If we are talking about essential Frank Sinatra albums for a music collection, the first one would have to be 1954's "In the Wee Small Hours," a superb collection of ballads that helped establish the former bobbysoxer heartthrob as the premier saloon singer of his generation. But the second album on that list would be 1955's "Songs for Swingin' Lovers," in which Sinatra and arranger Nelson Riddle go in the opposite direction, providing a stellar collection of pop standards reinterpreted for the crooner who was becoming a damn fine singer. Several of the songs, such as "Pennies From Heaven" and "I've Got You Under My Skin," actually predated the start of Sinatra's career, but in the case of the latter Sinatra provided what is arguably the definitive version of the Cole Potter classic and the song that in retrospect defined Frank Sinatra as the premier vocalist of the 20th century (sorry for the understatement). The zesty tone for the album is established with the opening track, "You Make Me Feel So Young," while other great tracks if you had to be picky would be "You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me" and "Too Marvelous for Words." All of these songs give you the undeniable sense that Sinatra is just having a great time singing each and every one of them. Riddle's arrangements, done with a core rhythm section and a full orchestra, are the key to unlocking the door to musical greatness and are as fine as anything he ever did for Sinatra or anyone else. Part of the problem is that nobody really remembers what most of these songs sounded like before Riddle and Sinatra reworked them into the songs we know today. I may well change my mind tomorrow, but today I would make the case that "I've Got You Under My Skin" is the greatest Frank Sinatra song.
i'm sorry i only have 5 stars to give, 27 May 2005
First of all, well done the previous reviewer for a perceptive tribute. Sinatra was a gifted actor, too, bringing a wide communicative talent to his singing - as they used to say 'when he sings a song it stays sung'. Love the way he uses his native New Jersey accent artfully, for a common touch effect. As for the album, if you ever cared about music you need this record like you need your next breath.
Superb..., 04 Jun 2003
Unlike some of his contemporaries at the time, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and other celebrated jazz vocalists, Sinatra's art was in the concealment of his technique. Upon first listen, this album sounds like Frank is just serenading his lover, or singing to himself. But the music feels strangely satisfying and euphoric and just makes you want to dance and click your fingers. This is due, to the many subtleties in Sinatra's voice. As opposed to Ella, who's inventive scat lines keep you constantly interested in her delightful voice, or Louis, who's warm character and humour just shines through the speakers, Sinatra possesses, I believe, an equal measure of talent, but in a different way. Sinatra excels in three directions: Rhythm, expression and control. Sometimes, Frank chomps down hard on the beat, fitting into the groove, like on "Anything Goes". Here, the syllables "in-ol-den-days-a-glimpse..." are right on the beat. He then jumps right off the beat, with "stock" in "stocking". This is just one example of Frank's extraordinary understanding of the jazz idiom. Sometimes, his democratic timing spreads the notes equally out. Such as in "I've Got You Under My Skin". Porter writes that the word "skin" ends up at the beginning of the third bar, with a long gap till the next phrase. Sinatra spreads out the phrase, so "skin" ends up halfway through the bar, then, starts the next phrase early. This incredibly romantic style is always appropriately used, and never more so than on this album, which, is all about romanticism. Expression wise, aside from the elongated phrases which just glide over the music, as better illustrated in other albums at this time (Wee Small Hours), Frank possesses a natural gift for dynamics and diction. Even though, at this time, and for the rest of his life, Sinatra spoke in a heavy New Jersey accent, he sings like a poet. His wonderful, conversational expressiveness that made him the pin-up of every teenage girl in the 40's still remains. He can insinuate such complex feelings, such as in "I Thought About You" where he thinks about his loved one, as his train speeds away, and you can hear him smiling as he says the line "I like New York in June", reverting for a moment to a faint New Jersey accent. In a way, Sinatra's wide range of expressiveness on this album shows his understading of the complexities of love. Frank's voice in this era has taken on a lovely colour. While retaining the boyish charisma of his Columbia era, his voice has deepened, acquiring a beautifully deep viola timbre. Although Frank was only a light baritone, his deep timbre implies that, should he choose to do so, he could go much lower. Even on the high notes, his voice resonates with warmth, with no nasal tones. When he wanted, he could even use the shortcomings of his voice to his advantage. Not so much on this album, but on other Capitol albums of the time, he could exploit the area of his voice that was above middle C, which was hard to control. He would sing in this area on ballads or torch songs, and his voice would sound weak or maybe might crack. Just one example of Frank's dark art, as it were. You might wonder what the difference or advantage of these hidden talents are. Whereas any woman who hears Ella or any man who hears Mel Torme, maybe, thinks, I could never do that. Those singers take you out of yourself and in again. Singers like Billie Holiday and Sinatra take you in yourself and out again. A young man hearing Frank on this album thinks, "I can do that", but in fact, Frank sings better than anyone else thinks they can. There are other great components of this album, aside from the marvellous singing. Nelson Riddle's arrangements are simply "Too Marvellous For Words". Unlike some of his contemporaries of the time such as Buddy Bregman, or Paul Weston, Riddle doesn't write standard block Jazz arrangements. Aside from the sheer masterpiece that is "I've Got You Under My Skin", arrangments such as "You Make Me Feel So Young" burst with life and zest. Riddle was imaginative in his use of strings. He uses them like a jazz instrument, like in "It Happened in Monterey" where the strings flutter and twirl with life and colour. Riddle also uses marimbas, bass trombone and flutes for different touches of colour. The production, is maybe the least best element of the album, but it is only contrained by recording limitations: The trombones and trumpets are right at the back, and the sound is often dull and grey. But Voyle Gilmore has stuck Frank right in the middle of the band, right in amongst the musicians, as opposed to someone like Norman Granz, who liked Ella to be on top of the music, seperated from it, aurally. Maybe it's just that Sinatra had a brilliant big band voice, but he sounds like he could be standing in the trombone section. And finally the material. The two Cole Porter songs "Under My Skin" and "Anything Goes" are two of the many high points of the album. Most lyrics, if not the titles, contain the word "you" in them, which is appropriate to the vision of Sinatra crooning to his swingin' lover. The album may have one or two minor discrepencies, such as the flatness in sound that occurs (fiddle with the treble and bass on the stereo, and you will eliminate this problem - the recording will sound crystalline, and you will forget about the sound) and the dated sound that the celesta some times brings to the music, but this is an epitomic album of the peak of Sinatra's entire career. In short, if you are a Frank fan, i can't think of any reason why you haven't bought this album yet, and if you aren't a Frank fan, then this album will blow you away.
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Christmas With The Rat Pack
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Frank SinatraDean MartinSammy Davis Jr;
EMI;
2002-12-02;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days *Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £7.00
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Product Description
Just as irony is being pronounced dead, along comes the boozy holiday compilation Christmas with the Rat Pack, suggesting that rumours of its demise may be premature. Given the culture's simmering lounge mania, this collection (with its cheesy homage/rip-off Oceans 11 art direction) may be belated--but hey, punctuality was never these swingin' cats' bag, Jack. The novelty of having three of the 20th century's most notorious sinners belt, whoop and sing the praises of sleigh bells, roasting chestnuts and the virgin birth would be enough to recommend this dizzy 21-track delight, but there's actually some rewarding pop archaeology here as well. Two of the best tracks--Sammy Davis's ring-a-ding-ding romp through "Jingle Bells" and Dino's dreamy "Peace on Earth/Silent Night"--hail from a vintage, ultra-rare Reprise sampler. Sammy's typically over-the-top "Christmastime All Over the World" and Nat Cole tribute, "The Christmas Song" also make their CD debut. Dino's holiday TV specials yield more unreleased rarities: Sinatra-Martin duets of the loopy "Marshmallow World" and a touchingly tipsy take on "Auld Lang Syne" that suggests the boys have shared more than one cup of kindness. --Jerry McCulley
Customer Reviews
Undoubtedly the best Frank Sinatra compilation available!, 29 Mar 2008
This is an excellent update of the previously released "My Way: The Best pf Frank Sinatra": the record company have added a whole new CD! The single album was already terrific value for money, containing as it did Frank's best loved and most well known songs but the addition of the extra CD has made this an indispensable album for anyone wanting to add some Frank Sinatra to their CD collection - it just beats all the other competition clean out of sight! If Sinatra fun, gotta have this one!, 20 Jan 2008
Definitely this double album is one of the best compilations of an artist. This double CD contains some of the best song recordings of Frank, and includes all of his best songs, in just the right price. "Something Stupid" sang with his daughter Nancy, was to me a very pleasant surprised, as i never heard this recording before. Seriously, people who are not fun of Sinatra or 60s music of this kind, did not complain listening to both CDs playing one after the other ;)
The best 'best of'.........., 11 Aug 2007
I've had this cd for a while now, it's one I listen to when I want to relax (along with Andrea Bocelli).
I got this purely based on the songs I saw featured & the fact that I reliased my musical taste was changing fast. I played this a lot over Christmas & it really helped me chill out - c'mon girls, you all know what Christmas is like for the lady of the house!!!! *:-D
I'd recommend this album to anyone - especially if it's the only Frank Sinatra cd you plan on buying - it's definately got the 'best of' on this 'best of....' which is unusual (most fo the time it's random & you like a few of the 'best of' tracks!)
Highly recommended CD! Frank's Way, 14 Jul 2007
My Way: The Best Of Frank Sinatra collects together all of his hits from the Reprise years. But that is not all, most of Frank's best known songs are here as well. Masterpieces such as I've Got You Under My Skin, I Get A Kick Out Of You, Come Fly With Me etc. But these Capitol era classics are all re-recordings from albums such as Sinatra's Sinatra, Sinatra and Swingin' Brass etc. So if your looking for the original Capitol pieces your best bet is the excellent Platinum Collection or all his great albums from that period. However these re-recordings are still pretty good. Nelson Riddle tweaks his arrangement for Under My Skin and Neal Hefti comes up with some briilant arrangements for I Get A Kick Out Of You and Pennies From Heaven matching or prehaps even bettering the orignals. This album is a great intro to Sinatra giving you all his hits on two discs. If your already a fan chances are you already own most of these recordings. If not then this is a great way to get them all. While the re-recordings may not be to everyone's taste it's still a good album. However I do feel that some songs have been missed out, I personally would have liked to have seen more of the Sinatra-Basie albums (represented here by The Best Is Yet To Come and Pennies From Hevean). Prehaps if Reprise had collaborated with Capitol (as they did with the Romance 2 disc cd) then the album would have felt more definitive. Disappointing, sluggish versions!!!, 04 Jul 2007
When I first looked at the list of songs you get on this double CD album I was really impressed. I didn't think I could go wrong with so many classics included. But..... I have just listened to it (I received it this morning) and I'm afraid I am going to list it on Ebay straight away. I was expecting to get an album with all original recordings but unfortunately it is a collection of half-hearted versions. I was expecting the 'full of life' and 'uplifting' ones you hear, say, on the adverts on telly. Oh no! The versions on this album are far from likely to put a spring in your step. The orchestra seems to drown out Sinatra's voice in almost every track and I was particularly disappointed with 'Mack the Knife' which is my favourite. It usually never fails to make my toe tap away but this time it just made me feel a bit sleepy and bored. Like I said before - nice track list, but they're all a bit lifeless. I am now off to buy his other 'Best of' album from 1997. Wish me luck!?! Simply the best and a bargain, 26 Feb 2008
I have owned this CD for more than 3 years and it is still the best Buble has ever done. I saw him sing most of the tracks at Ronnie Scotts and even now my friends accompanying me that night still talk fondly of the occasion. At this bargain price (feb 2008) you cannot afford to be without it. Everyone will ask you who is singing it. It is just wonderful music. All the songs are beautifully arranged and exceptionally well sung. I listen to it again and again without tiring of it. Bringing jazz and swing to a new generation!, 04 Feb 2008
As an eighteen year old girl from North London it's not very often i hear jazz or swing music, and to be honest i had never even bothered before. When this album was first released i heard it at a dance class i attended and it got me hooked on Michael Buble and jazz and swing as entire genres of music.
The orchesteral arrangements are good but the outstanding quality of Michael Buble's voice is what sold it to me. He has great phrasing, vocal tone and a fantastic, emotional delivery which makes you feel like every word is being sung to you alone. His voice gives me goosebumps and makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
After buying this CD i began listening to the true legends such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and in my opinion Michael Buble matches both of these. I have since bought his other albums and lent them to friends who too have become hooked. I could never grow tired of listening to him sing and all his albums are constantly on repeat in my car. Michael Buble has delivered jazz and swing to a whole new generation! Hooray for Bublé!, 13 Jun 2007
This is the debut album from Canadian singer Michael Buble.
It lasts 49 minutes in total, and has 13 songs:
1. FEVER.
Buble's cover of Peggy lee's cover of Little Willie John's song {!}
The song begins with a double bass {always a good sign!} then builds into a big band stomper! 10/10.
2. MOONDANCE.
Buble's version of Van Morrisons 70's hit.
Possibly the best song on the album. The music alone is fabulous, Buble's vocals make it even better! 10/10.
3. KISSING A FOOL.
Buble's cover of George Michaels song.
Great use of the piano 9/10.
4. FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE.
Buble's version of Stevie Wonders song. Slower than his version, but equally as good {if not better!} 10/10.
5. HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART.
Buble's cover of The Bee Gees hit - 8/10.
6. SUMMER WIND.
Buble's version of Frank Sinatra's song.
This song reminds me of MACK THE KNIFE, great saxophone solo - 9/10.
7. YOULL NEVER FIND A LOVE LIKE MINE.
Buble's cover of the song first sung by Lou Rawls.
It has an aura of a James Bond song about it! good backing vocals - 9/10.
8. CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE.
Buble's version of the Queen song.
Its fab & totally different to the original - 10/10.
9. PUT YOUR HEAD ON MY SHOULDER.
Buble's cover of Paul Ankas song.
Romantic & tender, a totally relaxing song - 10/10.
10. SWAY.
Buble's version of the Dean Martin song.
Sensational! 10/10.
11. THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT.
Buble's superb cover of the Frank Sinatra song - 10/10.
12. COME FLY WITH ME.
Buble's version of the Frank Sinatra song.
Buble was born to sing this song - 10/10.
13. THATS ALL.
Buble's cover of the Frank Sinatra song.
Sexy! 10/10.
I bought this album after hearing Torvill and Dean dance to Buble's version of MOONDANCE on ITV 1. The song was stuck in my head for days!
If you or someone you know adores the big band sound, or you're just a fan of great music, then this album is for you.
Buble makes all the songs on this album his own, and even people who are'nt fond of the Rat Pack sound will undoubtedly be converted!
A perfect valentines day / anniversary gift,
Utterly fabulous!
relax relax, 08 Nov 2006
this is one cd that you can totally relax and unwind to.there is not one song that is not brilliant.i heard this cd while on holiday in spain in july o6. as soon as i came back i searched the net for it.certainly a cd that all ages can listen to.BRILLIANT. Most enjoyable singer, 24 Feb 2006
This is my second MB CD - awesome! He is excellent in his phrasing, vocal tone and delivery; he must have been practising hard whilst out at sea fishing, singing his crewmates silly! This boy's got the whole package - wow. Buy it and hear him for yourself! If you're sick of "Slade" and Wizzard", give this a go!!, 26 Oct 2007
This is my favourite Christmas CD, it has something for everyone! It's the perfect antidote for the tired old tunes that everyone plays at Christmas (if I hear "I wish it could be Christmas every day" one more time I won't be responsible for my actions), the highlights being "Zat you Santa Claus?" by Louis Armstrong and "Silent Night" by Dinah Washington.
Give it a go and you won't be disappointed, especially at this price!! A nice Christmas collection, 10 Nov 2004
My wife and I enjoy this collection. There is a little traditional, a little modern, some soulful, some fun. A relaxing mix of music to settle down with. Sinatra at his sparkling best, 02 Nov 2008
This album is simply Sinatra at his very best. If, like me, you starting listening to Sinatra because you liked his classics, like New York New York and My Way, then you are in for a real treat. As good as the above are, this album showcases Sinatra's special talent. Each track is given the treatment, he carries the beat and your feet just cannot stop tapping.
The album is without doubt one of his very best. No Sinatra collection would be complete without it. Sublime , 16 May 2008
The words "classic album" are frequently used. In some albums it's justified (The Beatles - Revolver, Michael Jackson - Thriller, Iron Maiden - Number Of The Beast, Dusty Springfield - Dusty In Memphis).
In some it's not (Pink Floyd - Dark Side Of The Moon, The Beatles - Sgt Pepper, Radiohead - The Bends, Westside Story Soundtrack).
However, Songs For Swinging Lovers is without doubt, up there with the greats. From start to finish, it is pure perfection. You Make Me Feel So Young, I've Got You Under My Skin, To Marvelous For Words, How About You......
Sinatra is a very understated singer, he doesn't have to try and be athletic; the words just roll off his tongue and his clarity and diction are perfect.
Nelson Riddle is associated with this album almost as much as Sinatra. The arrangements are wondeful and are played by the very best musicians.
Songs For Swinging Lovers is an essential purchase for any music fan. Sinatra and Riddle record "I've Got You Under My Skin", 08 Oct 2005
If we are talking about essential Frank Sinatra albums for a music collection, the first one would have to be 1954's "In the Wee Small Hours," a superb collection of ballads that helped establish the former bobbysoxer heartthrob as the premier saloon singer of his generation. But the second album on that list would be 1955's "Songs for Swingin' Lovers," in which Sinatra and arranger Nelson Riddle go in the opposite direction, providing a stellar collection of pop standards reinterpreted for the crooner who was becoming a damn fine singer. Several of the songs, such as "Pennies From Heaven" and "I've Got You Under My Skin," actually predated the start of Sinatra's career, but in the case of the latter Sinatra provided what is arguably the definitive version of the Cole Potter classic and the song that in retrospect defined Frank Sinatra as the premier vocalist of the 20th century (sorry for the understatement). The zesty tone for the album is established with the opening track, "You Make Me Feel So Young," while other great tracks if you had to be picky would be "You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me" and "Too Marvelous for Words." All of these songs give you the undeniable sense that Sinatra is just having a great time singing each and every one of them. Riddle's arrangements, done with a core rhythm section and a full orchestra, are the key to unlocking the door to musical greatness and are as fine as anything he ever did for Sinatra or anyone else. Part of the problem is that nobody really remembers what most of these songs sounded like before Riddle and Sinatra reworked them into the songs we know today. I may well change my mind tomorrow, but today I would make the case that "I've Got You Under My Skin" is the greatest Frank Sinatra song. i'm sorry i only have 5 stars to give, 27 May 2005
First of all, well done the previous reviewer for a perceptive tribute. Sinatra was a gifted actor, too, bringing a wide communicative talent to his singing - as they used to say 'when he sings a song it stays sung'. Love the way he uses his native New Jersey accent artfully, for a common touch effect. As for the album, if you ever cared about music you need this record like you need your next breath. Superb..., 04 Jun 2003
Unlike some of his contemporaries at the time, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and other celebrated jazz vocalists, Sinatra's art was in the concealment of his technique. Upon first listen, this album sounds like Frank is just serenading his lover, or singing to himself. But the music feels strangely satisfying and euphoric and just makes you want to dance and click your fingers. This is due, to the many subtleties in Sinatra's voice. As opposed to Ella, who's inventive scat lines keep you constantly interested in her delightful voice, or Louis, who's warm character and humour just shines through the speakers, Sinatra possesses, I believe, an equal measure of talent, but in a different way. Sinatra excels in three directions: Rhythm, expression and control. Sometimes, Frank chomps down hard on the beat, fitting into the groove, like on "Anything Goes". Here, the syllables "in-ol-den-days-a-glimpse..." are right on the beat. He then jumps right off the beat, with "stock" in "stocking". This is just one example of Frank's extraordinary understanding of the jazz idiom. Sometimes, his democratic timing spreads the notes equally out. Such as in "I've Got You Under My Skin". Porter writes that the word "skin" ends up at the beginning of the third bar, with a long gap till the next phrase. Sinatra spreads out the phrase, so "skin" ends up halfway through the bar, then, starts the next phrase early. This incredibly romantic style is always appropriately used, and never more so than on this album, which, is all about romanticism. Expression wise, aside from the elongated phrases which just glide over the music, as better illustrated in other albums at this time (Wee Small Hours), Frank possesses a natural gift for dynamics and diction. Even though, at this time, and for the rest of his life, Sinatra spoke in a heavy New Jersey accent, he sings like a poet. His wonderful, conversational expressiveness that made him the pin-up of every teenage girl in the 40's still remains. He can insinuate such complex feelings, such as in "I Thought About You" where he thinks about his loved one, as his train speeds away, and you can hear him smiling as he says the line "I like New York in June", reverting for a moment to a faint New Jersey accent. In a way, Sinatra's wide range of expressiveness on this album shows his understading of the complexities of love. Frank's voice in this era has taken on a lovely colour. While retaining the boyish charisma of his Columbia era, his voice has deepened, acquiring a beautifully deep viola timbre. Although Frank was only a light baritone, his deep timbre implies that, should he choose to do so, he could go much lower. Even on the high notes, his voice resonates with warmth, with no nasal tones. When he wanted, he could even use the shortcomings of his voice to his advantage. Not so much on this album, but on other Capitol albums of the time, he could exploit the area of his voice that was above middle C, which was hard to control. He would sing in this area on ballads or torch songs, and his voice would sound weak or maybe might crack. Just one example of Frank's dark art, as it were. You might wonder what the difference or advantage of these hidden talents are. Whereas any woman who hears Ella or any man who hears Mel Torme, maybe, thinks, I could never do that. Those singers take you out of yourself and in again. Singers like Billie Holiday and Sinatra take you in yourself and out again. A young man hearing Frank on this album thinks, "I can do that", but in fact, Frank sings better than anyone else thinks they can. There are other great components of this album, aside from the marvellous singing. Nelson Riddle's arrangements are simply "Too Marvellous For Words". Unlike some of his contemporaries of the time such as Buddy Bregman, or Paul Weston, Riddle doesn't write standard block Jazz arrangements. Aside from the sheer masterpiece that is "I've Got You Under My Skin", arrangments such as "You Make Me Feel So Young" burst with life and zest. Riddle was imaginative in his use of strings. He uses them like a jazz instrument, like in "It Happened in Monterey" where the strings flutter and twirl with life and colour. Riddle also uses marimbas, bass trombone and flutes for different touches of colour. The production, is maybe the least best element of the album, but it is only contrained by recording limitations: The trombones and trumpets are right at the back, and the sound is often dull and grey. But Voyle Gilmore has stuck Frank right in the middle of the band, right in amongst the musicians, as opposed to someone like Norman Granz, who liked Ella to be on top of the music, seperated from it, aurally. Maybe it's just that Sinatra had a brilliant big band voice, but he sounds like he could be standing in the trombone section. And finally the material. The two Cole Porter songs "Under My Skin" and "Anything Goes" are two of the many high points of the album. Most lyrics, if not the titles, contain the word "you" in them, which is appropriate to the vision of Sinatra crooning to his swingin' lover. The album may have one or two minor discrepencies, such as the flatness in sound that occurs (fiddle with the treble and bass on the stereo, and you will eliminate this problem - the recording will sound crystalline, and you will forget about the sound) and the dated sound that the celesta some times brings to the music, but this is an epitomic album of the peak of Sinatra's entire career. In short, if you are a Frank fan, i can't think of any reason why you haven't bought this album yet, and if you aren't a Frank fan, then this album will blow you away. Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.
The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.
Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.
If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face! Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy. Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree. Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas." Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.
auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE
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The Hits of the 30's and 40's
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Various Artists;
Prestige;
2004-02-16;
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Usually dispatched within 1-2 business days *Best price found from Amazon Marketplace seller
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*Amazon: £8.45
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Customer Reviews
Undoubtedly the best Frank Sinatra compilation available!, 29 Mar 2008
This is an excellent update of the previously released "My Way: The Best pf Frank Sinatra": the record company have added a whole new CD! The single album was already terrific value for money, containing as it did Frank's best loved and most well known songs but the addition of the extra CD has made this an indispensable album for anyone wanting to add some Frank Sinatra to their CD collection - it just beats all the other competition clean out of sight! If Sinatra fun, gotta have this one!, 20 Jan 2008
Definitely this double album is one of the best compilations of an artist. This double CD contains some of the best song recordings of Frank, and includes all of his best songs, in just the right price. "Something Stupid" sang with his daughter Nancy, was to me a very pleasant surprised, as i never heard this recording before. Seriously, people who are not fun of Sinatra or 60s music of this kind, did not complain listening to both CDs playing one after the other ;)
The best 'best of'.........., 11 Aug 2007
I've had this cd for a while now, it's one I listen to when I want to relax (along with Andrea Bocelli).
I got this purely based on the songs I saw featured & the fact that I reliased my musical taste was changing fast. I played this a lot over Christmas & it really helped me chill out - c'mon girls, you all know what Christmas is like for the lady of the house!!!! *:-D
I'd recommend this album to anyone - especially if it's the only Frank Sinatra cd you plan on buying - it's definately got the 'best of' on this 'best of....' which is unusual (most fo the time it's random & you like a few of the 'best of' tracks!)
Highly recommended CD! Frank's Way, 14 Jul 2007
My Way: The Best Of Frank Sinatra collects together all of his hits from the Reprise years. But that is not all, most of Frank's best known songs are here as well. Masterpieces such as I've Got You Under My Skin, I Get A Kick Out Of You, Come Fly With Me etc. But these Capitol era classics are all re-recordings from albums such as Sinatra's Sinatra, Sinatra and Swingin' Brass etc. So if your looking for the original Capitol pieces your best bet is the excellent Platinum Collection or all his great albums from that period. However these re-recordings are still pretty good. Nelson Riddle tweaks his arrangement for Under My Skin and Neal Hefti comes up with some briilant arrangements for I Get A Kick Out Of You and Pennies From Heaven matching or prehaps even bettering the orignals. This album is a great intro to Sinatra giving you all his hits on two discs. If your already a fan chances are you already own most of these recordings. If not then this is a great way to get them all. While the re-recordings may not be to everyone's taste it's still a good album. However I do feel that some songs have been missed out, I personally would have liked to have seen more of the Sinatra-Basie albums (represented here by The Best Is Yet To Come and Pennies From Hevean). Prehaps if Reprise had collaborated with Capitol (as they did with the Romance 2 disc cd) then the album would have felt more definitive. Disappointing, sluggish versions!!!, 04 Jul 2007
When I first looked at the list of songs you get on this double CD album I was really impressed. I didn't think I could go wrong with so many classics included. But..... I have just listened to it (I received it this morning) and I'm afraid I am going to list it on Ebay straight away. I was expecting to get an album with all original recordings but unfortunately it is a collection of half-hearted versions. I was expecting the 'full of life' and 'uplifting' ones you hear, say, on the adverts on telly. Oh no! The versions on this album are far from likely to put a spring in your step. The orchestra seems to drown out Sinatra's voice in almost every track and I was particularly disappointed with 'Mack the Knife' which is my favourite. It usually never fails to make my toe tap away but this time it just made me feel a bit sleepy and bored. Like I said before - nice track list, but they're all a bit lifeless. I am now off to buy his other 'Best of' album from 1997. Wish me luck!?! Simply the best and a bargain, 26 Feb 2008
I have owned this CD for more than 3 years and it is still the best Buble has ever done. I saw him sing most of the tracks at Ronnie Scotts and even now my friends accompanying me that night still talk fondly of the occasion. At this bargain price (feb 2008) you cannot afford to be without it. Everyone will ask you who is singing it. It is just wonderful music. All the songs are beautifully arranged and exceptionally well sung. I listen to it again and again without tiring of it. Bringing jazz and swing to a new generation!, 04 Feb 2008
As an eighteen year old girl from North London it's not very often i hear jazz or swing music, and to be honest i had never even bothered before. When this album was first released i heard it at a dance class i attended and it got me hooked on Michael Buble and jazz and swing as entire genres of music.
The orchesteral arrangements are good but the outstanding quality of Michael Buble's voice is what sold it to me. He has great phrasing, vocal tone and a fantastic, emotional delivery which makes you feel like every word is being sung to you alone. His voice gives me goosebumps and makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.
After buying this CD i began listening to the true legends such as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and in my opinion Michael Buble matches both of these. I have since bought his other albums and lent them to friends who too have become hooked. I could never grow tired of listening to him sing and all his albums are constantly on repeat in my car. Michael Buble has delivered jazz and swing to a whole new generation! Hooray for Bublé!, 13 Jun 2007
This is the debut album from Canadian singer Michael Buble.
It lasts 49 minutes in total, and has 13 songs:
1. FEVER.
Buble's cover of Peggy lee's cover of Little Willie John's song {!}
The song begins with a double bass {always a good sign!} then builds into a big band stomper! 10/10.
2. MOONDANCE.
Buble's version of Van Morrisons 70's hit.
Possibly the best song on the album. The music alone is fabulous, Buble's vocals make it even better! 10/10.
3. KISSING A FOOL.
Buble's cover of George Michaels song.
Great use of the piano 9/10.
4. FOR ONCE IN MY LIFE.
Buble's version of Stevie Wonders song. Slower than his version, but equally as good {if not better!} 10/10.
5. HOW CAN YOU MEND A BROKEN HEART.
Buble's cover of The Bee Gees hit - 8/10.
6. SUMMER WIND.
Buble's version of Frank Sinatra's song.
This song reminds me of MACK THE KNIFE, great saxophone solo - 9/10.
7. YOULL NEVER FIND A LOVE LIKE MINE.
Buble's cover of the song first sung by Lou Rawls.
It has an aura of a James Bond song about it! good backing vocals - 9/10.
8. CRAZY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE.
Buble's version of the Queen song.
Its fab & totally different to the original - 10/10.
9. PUT YOUR HEAD ON MY SHOULDER.
Buble's cover of Paul Ankas song.
Romantic & tender, a totally relaxing song - 10/10.
10. SWAY.
Buble's version of the Dean Martin song.
Sensational! 10/10.
11. THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT.
Buble's superb cover of the Frank Sinatra song - 10/10.
12. COME FLY WITH ME.
Buble's version of the Frank Sinatra song.
Buble was born to sing this song - 10/10.
13. THATS ALL.
Buble's cover of the Frank Sinatra song.
Sexy! 10/10.
I bought this album after hearing Torvill and Dean dance to Buble's version of MOONDANCE on ITV 1. The song was stuck in my head for days!
If you or someone you know adores the big band sound, or you're just a fan of great music, then this album is for you.
Buble makes all the songs on this album his own, and even people who are'nt fond of the Rat Pack sound will undoubtedly be converted!
A perfect valentines day / anniversary gift,
Utterly fabulous!
relax relax, 08 Nov 2006
this is one cd that you can totally relax and unwind to.there is not one song that is not brilliant.i heard this cd while on holiday in spain in july o6. as soon as i came back i searched the net for it.certainly a cd that all ages can listen to.BRILLIANT. Most enjoyable singer, 24 Feb 2006
This is my second MB CD - awesome! He is excellent in his phrasing, vocal tone and delivery; he must have been practising hard whilst out at sea fishing, singing his crewmates silly! This boy's got the whole package - wow. Buy it and hear him for yourself! If you're sick of "Slade" and Wizzard", give this a go!!, 26 Oct 2007
This is my favourite Christmas CD, it has something for everyone! It's the perfect antidote for the tired old tunes that everyone plays at Christmas (if I hear "I wish it could be Christmas every day" one more time I won't be responsible for my actions), the highlights being "Zat you Santa Claus?" by Louis Armstrong and "Silent Night" by Dinah Washington.
Give it a go and you won't be disappointed, especially at this price!! A nice Christmas collection, 10 Nov 2004
My wife and I enjoy this collection. There is a little traditional, a little modern, some soulful, some fun. A relaxing mix of music to settle down with. Sinatra at his sparkling best, 02 Nov 2008
This album is simply Sinatra at his very best. If, like me, you starting listening to Sinatra because you liked his classics, like New York New York and My Way, then you are in for a real treat. As good as the above are, this album showcases Sinatra's special talent. Each track is given the treatment, he carries the beat and your feet just cannot stop tapping.
The album is without doubt one of his very best. No Sinatra collection would be complete without it. Sublime , 16 May 2008
The words "classic album" are frequently used. In some albums it's justified (The Beatles - Revolver, Michael Jackson - Thriller, Iron Maiden - Number Of The Beast, Dusty Springfield - Dusty In Memphis).
In some it's not (Pink Floyd - Dark Side Of The Moon, The Beatles - Sgt Pepper, Radiohead - The Bends, Westside Story Soundtrack).
However, Songs For Swinging Lovers is without doubt, up there with the greats. From start to finish, it is pure perfection. You Make Me Feel So Young, I've Got You Under My Skin, To Marvelous For Words, How About You......
Sinatra is a very understated singer, he doesn't have to try and be athletic; the words just roll off his tongue and his clarity and diction are perfect.
Nelson Riddle is associated with this album almost as much as Sinatra. The arrangements are wondeful and are played by the very best musicians.
Songs For Swinging Lovers is an essential purchase for any music fan. Sinatra and Riddle record "I've Got You Under My Skin", 08 Oct 2005
If we are talking about essential Frank Sinatra albums for a music collection, the first one would have to be 1954's "In the Wee Small Hours," a superb collection of ballads that helped establish the former bobbysoxer heartthrob as the premier saloon singer of his generation. But the second album on that list would be 1955's "Songs for Swingin' Lovers," in which Sinatra and arranger Nelson Riddle go in the opposite direction, providing a stellar collection of pop standards reinterpreted for the crooner who was becoming a damn fine singer. Several of the songs, such as "Pennies From Heaven" and "I've Got You Under My Skin," actually predated the start of Sinatra's career, but in the case of the latter Sinatra provided what is arguably the definitive version of the Cole Potter classic and the song that in retrospect defined Frank Sinatra as the premier vocalist of the 20th century (sorry for the understatement). The zesty tone for the album is established with the opening track, "You Make Me Feel So Young," while other great tracks if you had to be picky would be "You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me" and "Too Marvelous for Words." All of these songs give you the undeniable sense that Sinatra is just having a great time singing each and every one of them. Riddle's arrangements, done with a core rhythm section and a full orchestra, are the key to unlocking the door to musical greatness and are as fine as anything he ever did for Sinatra or anyone else. Part of the problem is that nobody really remembers what most of these songs sounded like before Riddle and Sinatra reworked them into the songs we know today. I may well change my mind tomorrow, but today I would make the case that "I've Got You Under My Skin" is the greatest Frank Sinatra song. i'm sorry i only have 5 stars to give, 27 May 2005
First of all, well done the previous reviewer for a perceptive tribute. Sinatra was a gifted actor, too, bringing a wide communicative talent to his singing - as they used to say 'when he sings a song it stays sung'. Love the way he uses his native New Jersey accent artfully, for a common touch effect. As for the album, if you ever cared about music you need this record like you need your next breath. Superb..., 04 Jun 2003
Unlike some of his contemporaries at the time, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and other celebrated jazz vocalists, Sinatra's art was in the concealment of his technique. Upon first listen, this album sounds like Frank is just serenading his lover, or singing to himself. But the music feels strangely satisfying and euphoric and just makes you want to dance and click your fingers. This is due, to the many subtleties in Sinatra's voice. As opposed to Ella, who's inventive scat lines keep you constantly interested in her delightful voice, or Louis, who's warm character and humour just shines through the speakers, Sinatra possesses, I believe, an equal measure of talent, but in a different way. Sinatra excels in three directions: Rhythm, expression and control. Sometimes, Frank chomps down hard on the beat, fitting into the groove, like on "Anything Goes". Here, the syllables "in-ol-den-days-a-glimpse..." are right on the beat. He then jumps right off the beat, with "stock" in "stocking". This is just one example of Frank's extraordinary understanding of the jazz idiom. Sometimes, his democratic timing spreads the notes equally out. Such as in "I've Got You Under My Skin". Porter writes that the word "skin" ends up at the beginning of the third bar, with a long gap till the next phrase. Sinatra spreads out the phrase, so "skin" ends up halfway through the bar, then, starts the next phrase early. This incredibly romantic style is always appropriately used, and never more so than on this album, which, is all about romanticism. Expression wise, aside from the elongated phrases which just glide over the music, as better illustrated in other albums at this time (Wee Small Hours), Frank possesses a natural gift for dynamics and diction. Even though, at this time, and for the rest of his life, Sinatra spoke in a heavy New Jersey accent, he sings like a poet. His wonderful, conversational expressiveness that made him the pin-up of every teenage girl in the 40's still remains. He can insinuate such complex feelings, such as in "I Thought About You" where he thinks about his loved one, as his train speeds away, and you can hear him smiling as he says the line "I like New York in June", reverting for a moment to a faint New Jersey accent. In a way, Sinatra's wide range of expressiveness on this album shows his understading of the complexities of love. Frank's voice in this era has taken on a lovely colour. While retaining the boyish charisma of his Columbia era, his voice has deepened, acquiring a beautifully deep viola timbre. Although Frank was only a light baritone, his deep timbre implies that, should he choose to do so, he could go much lower. Even on the high notes, his voice resonates with warmth, with no nasal tones. When he wanted, he could even use the shortcomings of his voice to his advantage. Not so much on this album, but on other Capitol albums of the time, he could exploit the area of his voice that was above middle C, which was hard to control. He would sing in this area on ballads or torch songs, and his voice would sound weak or maybe might crack. Just one example of Frank's dark art, as it were. You might wonder what the difference or advantage of these hidden talents are. Whereas any woman who hears Ella or any man who hears Mel Torme, maybe, thinks, I could never do that. Those singers take you out of yourself and in again. Singers like Billie Holiday and Sinatra take you in yourself and out again. A young man hearing Frank on this album thinks, "I can do that", but in fact, Frank sings better than anyone else thinks they can. There are other great components of this album, aside from the marvellous singing. Nelson Riddle's arrangements are simply "Too Marvellous For Words". Unlike some of his contemporaries of the time such as Buddy Bregman, or Paul Weston, Riddle doesn't write standard block Jazz arrangements. Aside from the sheer masterpiece that is "I've Got You Under My Skin", arrangments such as "You Make Me Feel So Young" burst with life and zest. Riddle was imaginative in his use of strings. He uses them like a jazz instrument, like in "It Happened in Monterey" where the strings flutter and twirl with life and colour. Riddle also uses marimbas, bass trombone and flutes for different touches of colour. The production, is maybe the least best element of the album, but it is only contrained by recording limitations: The trombones and trumpets are right at the back, and the sound is often dull and grey. But Voyle Gilmore has stuck Frank right in the middle of the band, right in amongst the musicians, as opposed to someone like Norman Granz, who liked Ella to be on top of the music, seperated from it, aurally. Maybe it's just that Sinatra had a brilliant big band voice, but he sounds like he could be standing in the trombone section. And finally the material. The two Cole Porter songs "Under My Skin" and "Anything Goes" are two of the many high points of the album. Most lyrics, if not the titles, contain the word "you" in them, which is appropriate to the vision of Sinatra crooning to his swingin' lover. The album may have one or two minor discrepencies, such as the flatness in sound that occurs (fiddle with the treble and bass on the stereo, and you will eliminate this problem - the recording will sound crystalline, and you will forget about the sound) and the dated sound that the celesta some times brings to the music, but this is an epitomic album of the peak of Sinatra's entire career. In short, if you are a Frank fan, i can't think of any reason why you haven't bought this album yet, and if you aren't a Frank fan, then this album will blow you away. Smooth Christmas, 24 Oct 2008
In a vote for the best Christmas album, it's a toss up for me between this and Phil Spector's.
The voices of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin are perfect for Christmas songs. They sound all warm and homely, and you can almost imagine them standing in front of a log fire singing these.
Plus, the banter between Frank, Dean and Sammy is pretty entertaining and makes the songs stand out from the usual Christmas standards.
If you get it, you'll bring it out every year and it will put a smile on your face! Superb Christmas Album, 08 Jan 2006
If you like these 3 superb performers and if you like Christmas music, you will absolutely love this album. I have been listening to this CD in my car for the last two months and I love it. Final verdict: You will not regret buying this great CD. Enjoy. Frank is great, Dean is pretty good, but we need more Sammy, 04 Dec 2004
Do not worry that you are going to be subjected to the sound of Peter Lawford singing Christmas songs, because "Christmas with the Rat Pack" leaves the singing to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis, Jr. The Chairman of the Board and Dino get eight tracks each, with Sammy only getting three, and then the trio sing the last two songs together and live. As you would expect, this is a Christmas album for those who are looking for something a bit stronger than eggnog when they are trimming the tree. Martin gets to cover the hip seasonal songs, like "I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!" while Frank does more of the religious songs, such as "The First Noel" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." All Sammy gets to sing is "Christmas Time All Over the World," "The Christmas Song," and "Jingle Bells." Martin gets to cover "Silver Bells," "White Christmas," and "Winter Wonderland," so he makes a strong showing on this album. Sinatra, as you would expect, shines most on songs that show his finely honed vocalization skills, such as "The Christmas Waltz," "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," and "I'll Be Home for Christmas." Obviously it would be nice if Sammy was thrown a few more crumbs, and you can argue the album would hang together better if they cut the couple of songs Martin sings that really sound like he is holding a martini in one hand. Fans will probably not care, but there are a few tracks that seem to run a bit more against the grain than some of the others, even though Martin milks them for all they are worth. The cover is an "Ocean's 11" inspired image that had the "11" with a couple of candy stripes and then a shot of the three kings of holiday singing.
auld lang syne, 09 Dec 2003
christmas AS IT SHOULD BE SUNG. YOUNG OR OLD IT MUST APPEAL TO EVERYONE ALL THE CLASSICS THAT SEEM TO HAVE BEEN AROUND AS LONG AS CHRISTMAS ITS SELF BUT STILL FEEL FRESH AND WARMING. SHERRY OR ALCOPOP THIS IS TOP OF THE CROP. GO ON, HAVE ANOTHER MINCE PIE
Pure nostalgia!, 28 May 2008
This is the epitome of easy listening, as it evokes a time when everything was so less complicated. Some would say it tends towards the cheesy, but...bring it on.The songs remind me so much of when I was small and the radio was always on, and everyone sang along. so different from sitting glued to the TV today. This is a brilliant collection at a remarkable price.Some of the titles I was unfamiliar with, but all in all, a most welcome and enjoyable addition to my collection.
Wow - what can I say, 21 Jul 2002
All my favourites in one pack - some songs I had previously heard only in films, and didn't know where to get them as audio tracks. Very enjoyable indeed. Even friends not into this sort of music take notice of the songs - simply great, and a very comprehensive compilation of music of the era, to give one a real feel of what lifestyles and musical taste were like back then. Gives you an insight into what your grandmother listened to, and got up to! Good value for money too!!!
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Product Description
A perfect martini-and-mistletoe combo, Christmas Cocktails will gaily seduce you with its bevy of nostalgic and occasionally campy holiday fare. Vocal vixens Peggy Lee, Julie London (her "I'd Like You for Christmas" will melt the ice cubes in your fridge), Kay Starr and Nancy Wilson join forces with perennial crooners such as Lou Rawls, Dean Martin and the immortal Nat "King" Cole, along with a handful of instrumental big-band numbers and odd, at times cheese-ball-shaped jazz organ pieces from Jimmy McGriff and the flammable Eddie Dundstedter, among others. But the essential item that makes plunking down your pelts for this very chi-chi set is none other than Billy May's lovably kitschy workout called "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer Mambo"--it's a scream. The package comes complete with its own cocktail minimanual and the recipes for Hot Toddys and Hot Tom and Jerrys. Garishly retro and naughtily nostalgic, this kind of slinky Christmas gift should probably be illegal in many prudish countries. --Martin Keller
Customer Reviews
Undoubtedly the best Frank Sinatra compilation available!, 29 Mar 2008
This is an excellent update of the previously released "My Way: The Best pf Frank Sinatra": the record company have added a whole new CD! The single album was already terrific value for money, containing as it did Frank's best loved and most well known songs but the addition of the extra CD has made this an indispensable album for anyone wanting to add some Frank Sinatra to their CD collection - it just beats all the other competition clean out of sight!
If Sinatra fun, gotta have this one!, 20 Jan 2008
Definitely this double album is one of the best compilations of an artist. This double CD contains some of the best song recordings of Frank, and includes all of his best songs, in just the right price. "Something Stupid" sang with his daughter Nancy, was to me a very pleasant surprised, as i never heard this recording before. Seriously, people who are not fun of Sinatra or 60s music of this kind, did not complain listening to both CDs playing one after the other ;)
The best 'best of'.........., 11 Aug 2007
I've had this cd for a while now, it's one I listen to when I want to relax (along with Andrea Bocelli).
I got this purely based on the songs I saw featured & the fact that I reliased my musical taste was changing fast. I played this a lot over Christmas & it really helped me chill out - c'mon girls, you all know what Christmas is like for the lady of the house!!!! *:-D
I'd recommend this album to anyone - especially if it's the only Frank Sinatra cd you plan on buying - it's definately got the 'best of' on this 'best of....' which is unusual (most fo the time it's random & you like a few of the 'best of' tracks!)
Highly recommended CD!
Frank's Way, 14 Jul 2007
My Way: The Best Of Frank Sinatra collects together all of his hits from the Reprise years. But that is not all, most of Frank's best known songs are here as well. Masterpieces such as I've Got You Under My Skin, I Get A Kick Out Of You, Come Fly With Me etc. But these Capitol era classics are all re-recordings from albums such as Sinatra's Sinatra, Sinatra and Swingin' Brass etc. So if your looking for the original Capitol pieces your best bet is the excellent Platinum Collection or all his grea | | |