There were great expectations for this to further cash in on the list topping '45 - "Ballad Of Bonnie And Clyde". It's a bunch of cover versions in the same pop/jazz style, with only one - "St James Infirmary" - reminding of his bluesier past. For some reason the album didn't sell and was his first not to chart at all. Whatever the reason was it sure had nothing to do with the quality. Albeit some of the songs in their original versions may have attracted a teen audience the performance here is very grown-up. Most tracks done in big-band form with Sinatra style arrangements, but also a few tender ballads. Produced by Mike Smith (1935-2011) - infamous for turning down The Beatles at a 1962 Decca audition, but after that responsible for a large number of UK hits including six #1. Backing by some of Britains top studio names - including John McLaughlin and Arthur Greeslade - conducted by jazz guru Harry South (1929-90). All that combined with Fame's personal vocals makes this a fine album. You're in good hands all the way, feeling groovy. Early US issue on Epic (LN 24368/BN 26368) as "The Ballad Of Bonnie And Clyde". Japanese remastered CD 2006 on CBS (MHCP 1254). First UK had structured label as shown here and laminated cover. Also as UK mono (63293). (MÖRS*) (FGÖ*)
Inga kommentarer:
Skicka en kommentar