Thursday, July 9, 2009

Live in Australia, 1959

In my iTunes library, Frank Sinatra albums are usually grouped in the "pop" genre, but Live in Australia, 1959, from a tour with the Red Norvo Quintet, is definitely in the "jazz" category. This is due in large part to a genuine collaboration with Red Norvo, one of the preeminent vibraphonists and bandleaders of his day. Sinatra is remarkably free not only with lyrics, but phrasing and timing as well.

This album has been perhaps overhyped: in my not-so-humble opinion, the performances are mostly perfunctory until "I've Got You Under My Skin," when the energy levels shoot way up. From then on out, Sinatra and the band are swinging. It's a classic, and a delight.

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