Album Information Section
Album Title: As Time Goes By… The Great American Songbook, Volume II
Artist: Rod Stewart
Original Release Date: October 14, 2003
Label: J Records
Genres: Jazz, Traditional Pop, Vocal Jazz
Track Listing:
- 1. Time After Time (2:59)
- 2. I’m in the Mood for Love (3:08)
- 3. Don’t Get Around Much Anymore (2:49)
- 4. Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered (4:14)
- 5. ’Till There Was You (2:52)
- 6. Until the Real Thing Comes Along (3:39)
- 7. Where or When (3:11)
- 8. Smile (3:13)
- 9. My Heart Stood Still (3:04)
- 10. Someone to Watch Over Me (3:31)
- 11. As Time Goes By (3:50)
- 12. I Only Have Eyes for You (3:08)
- 13. Crazy She Calls Me (3:29)
- 14. Our Love Is Here to Stay (2:57)
Recording Information
As Time Goes By… The Great American Songbook, Volume II was recorded at the renowned Ocean Way Recording studio located in Hollywood, California. The sessions took place primarily in 2003, coinciding with the album’s release date in October of the same year. The album was produced by the talented team of Rod Stewart himself, alongside legendary producer and musician, Richard Perry, known for his work with various artists throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
The engineering for the album was handled by the skilled team at Ocean Way, utilizing vintage recording techniques that brought a classic feel to the production. Notable equipment included analog tape machines and high-end microphones that captured Stewart’s distinctive vocal style with warmth and clarity. One interesting production note is that Stewart aimed to recreate the authentic sound of the Great American Songbook, drawing inspiration from classic jazz and pop standards, which is evident in both the arrangements and the overall vibe of the album.
Band Context
At the time of the album’s release, Rod Stewart was enjoying a resurgence in popularity, following the success of his previous installment in the Great American Songbook series. This album, a follow-up to the first volume released in 2002, solidified his position as a celebrated interpreter of classic American standards. Stewart, known for his raspy voice and charismatic stage presence, was transitioning from his rock roots to embrace a more sophisticated musical style.
The lineup during this recording primarily featured Rod Stewart as the lead vocalist, supported by a talented group of musicians that included prominent instrumentalists in the jazz and pop genres. The period leading up to this album saw Stewart actively engaging with the American Songbook, which not only showcased his versatility but also attracted a new audience to his music.
Significant events prior to this release included a series of successful tours and the continued influence of his earlier rock hits, which had established his legacy. His commitment to reviving these classic songs reflected a broader trend in the early 2000s, where many artists were exploring the rich history of American music.
Track Commentary
This album comprises fourteen tracks, each carefully selected to represent the timeless essence of American songwriting. The opener, “Time After Time,” sets a reflective tone with its smooth jazz arrangement, while “I’m in the Mood for Love” captures a romantic ambiance that is quintessentially Stewart.
Tracks such as “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” and “Bewitched, Bothered & Bewildered” showcase the artist’s ability to convey deep emotional narratives through his vocal delivery. The inclusion of standards like “Someone to Watch Over Me” and “As Time Goes By” further highlights Stewart’s knack for interpreting songs that have stood the test of time.
Notably, “Our Love Is Here to Stay” serves as a poignant closing track, encapsulating the album’s themes of love and nostalgia. The critical reception of the album was largely positive, with many reviews praising Stewart’s vocal performances and the lush arrangements that paid homage to the original works while adding his unique flair.
Overall, “As Time Goes By… The Great American Songbook, Volume II” stands as a testament to Rod Stewart’s enduring artistry and his successful exploration of classic American music, reinforcing his legacy as one of the premier vocalists of his generation.
