This album received a lot of publicity when it came out in 1984, chiefly because of the title track, a rather obvious attempt to rack up another hit along the lines of “Chicago” and “Theme from New York, New York.” Much better, however, are Sinatra’s renditions of standards such as “How Do You Keep the Music Playing?,” “Mack the Knife,” and “Stormy Weather.” Sinatra’s voice is showing its age, but his masterful phrasing repeatedly saves the day. Unfortunately, the musical backing (by Quincy Jones and his Orchestra, which includes such luminaries as George Benson, Lionel Hampton, and Urbie Green) is nauseatingly slick; there’s very little of the give-and-take between singer and band that marked Sinatra’s finest work. –Dan Epstein
Been having this album for a few years now first on cassette and later on CD the following year. To tell you this so far its the best piece ever done by the late great Frank Sinatra aka Ol' Blue Eyes with the orchestra leading under the direction of the legendary musician turned arranger-composer-producer Mr. Quincy Jones. According to some reviews, this was the last great album ever done like this by Quincy and Frank. Each and every song on there is dynamic and strong as it was before like in the days when Sinatra collaborated with Basie, Ella, or Jobim.
If you love strong music like this I suggest going for Ray Sings, Basie Swings Sinatra & Basie, Sinatra At The Sands, etc.
-- The Best of Everything
I should state that I'm a long-time Sinatra fan. Originally, I had little interest in this CD since it was not arranged by either Nelson Riddle or Billy May. Those two wrote "the groundwork" over which Sinatra did his best work, in my opinion. Also, Sinatra was 68 years old when it was recorded. Excluding the "Duets" pieces, I believe this is the last album Sinatra recorded. However, once I got past the title song, which seems a bit mundane for Sinatra, I grew to really like this CD. Four different arrangers had a part in the album, and it's not really like anything else Sinatra recorded. Perhaps the key element is the band. Quincy Jones put together some incredible players. Listening to the band alone is worth the price of the CD; plus, "Old Blue Eyes," at 68, can still swing. He's better than any of the posers out there that are half that age. Special lyrics were added for several tunes, especially "Mack the Knife." The last cut, "After You've Gone," is amazing. In summary - this CD is great fun. This is "good time" music with class and style. I thoroughly enjoy it, and it's become one of my Sinatra favorites...and I nearly missed it! -- Last but not least
ONE OF THE BEST, SOMEONE START LOOKING FOR THE BETA TAPE OF THE RECORDING SECESSION. I HAVE AN OLD COPY THAT'S FADING WITH TIME. LET'S GET IT TRANSFERED ON TO DVD. IT'S A GASSER MAN!!JUST THE COOLEST !! -- THERE'S A BETA TAPE OF THIS RECORDING SECESSION
Just bought this tremendous album. Get one while you still can (good used is better than nothing). His mature renditions and the fabulous Quincy Jones band really swing. I personally prefer Franks' records when he was in his 50's thru 70's. The huskier tones and the slightly different slant on the arrangements make them all the more enduring & endearing. He was simply THE BEST...there will never be another like him. Also if you can find SOME NICE THINGS I'VE MISSED cd it's one of his most diversified and entertaining ever. Another true gem for your collection.
-- Must Have Album
First purchased a copy of this LP back in the early eighties now scratched to hell, have been searching for a copy on CD for a number of years and now my joy is complete. The title track sounds as good, if not better, than it did all those years ago. L A's answer to
New York New York and my all time favourite version of the 'standard' they call 'Mack the Knife'
The man from Hoboken NJ certainly cuts all the right grooves on this album along with the tightest production & arrangements from the great Quincy Jones. Some would say not as good as his classic years, then who is or was. It doesn't matter coz I LOVE IT!! -- Ole Blue Eyes could still crack it
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