Album Information Section
Album Title: Sings the Ultimate American Songbook, Volume 1
Artist: Tony Bennett
Original Release Date: 2007-09-25
Label: Sony BMG Music Entertainment
Track Listing:
- 1. Anything Goes (live) (1:34)
- 2. The Very Thought of You (4:33)
- 3. The Way You Look Tonight (3:25)
- 4. Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye (3:12)
- 5. That Old Black Magic (live) (3:21)
- 6. A Foggy Day (2:14)
- 7. I’ll Be Seeing You (2:58)
- 8. Ain’t Misbehavin’ (2:45)
- 9. It Had to Be You (3:18)
- 10. Moonglow (live) (4:16)
- 11. She’s Funny That Way (4:20)
- 12. You Go to My Head (3:47)
- 13. They Can’t Take That Away From Me (2:48)
- 14. You’ll Never Get Away From Me (2:06)
- 15. Taking a Chance on Love (1:54)
Recording Information
The album “Sings the Ultimate American Songbook, Volume 1” was recorded at the renowned Avatar Studios, located in New York City. This iconic studio has hosted numerous legendary artists and is known for its state-of-the-art recording technology. The recording sessions took place in the mid-2007, coinciding with the album’s release date.
The production of the album was overseen by Grammy-winning producer and arranger, Jorge Calandrelli, who has collaborated with Bennett on several projects. The engineering was handled by the accomplished Al Schmitt, known for his meticulous attention to detail and his work with various jazz and pop icons. Notable recording techniques included the use of vintage microphones and analog recording equipment to capture the warmth and authenticity of Bennett’s voice, creating a timeless feel that resonates throughout the album.
Interestingly, during the recording sessions, Bennett’s enthusiasm and passion for the material often shone through, leading to spontaneous live performances of certain tracks, which added a unique energy to the recordings. The live tracks featured in the album are a testament to Bennett’s enduring stage presence and connection with his audience.
Band Context
At the time of the album’s release in 2007, Tony Bennett was well-established as a legendary figure in the music industry, with a career spanning over six decades. Having celebrated his 80th birthday that same year, Bennett was experiencing a renaissance in popularity, partly due to his collaborations with younger artists and his willingness to embrace contemporary music trends.
During this period, Bennett’s lineup primarily consisted of his long-time music ensemble, which included talented musicians known for their ability to blend jazz, pop, and traditional American music styles seamlessly. This album came at a pivotal moment in his career, as he was simultaneously promoting his work while also engaging in philanthropic efforts, particularly related to arts education.
Before the release of “Sings the Ultimate American Songbook, Volume 1,” Bennett had released several successful albums, including “Duets: An American Classic” in 2006, which featured collaborations with various artists from different genres. This had set the stage for further explorations of the American Songbook, a project that Bennett had been passionately pursuing throughout his career.
Track Commentary
The album comprises a selection of classic American standards, showcasing Bennett’s exceptional vocal prowess and interpretive skills. Each track is a testament to the timeless nature of the songs, many of which have become staples in the American musical lexicon.
Opening with a lively rendition of “Anything Goes,” Bennett immediately captures the listener’s attention with his dynamic vocals. This is followed by the romantic ballad “The Very Thought of You,” where Bennett’s smooth delivery highlights the song’s heartfelt lyrics. The classic “The Way You Look Tonight” continues this theme, blending jazz elements with a pop sensibility that Bennett has mastered over the years.
Tracks like “Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye” and “A Foggy Day” exemplify Bennett’s ability to convey deep emotion, while the live performances of “That Old Black Magic” and “Moonglow” serve as reminders of his vibrant stage presence. Standout tracks such as “I’ll Be Seeing You” and “Ain’t Misbehavin’” resonate deeply with listeners, often evoking nostalgia and a sense of longing.
Critically, the album received positive reviews, with many praising Bennett’s ability to breathe new life into classic songs. The combination of live and studio recordings offers a rich listening experience, allowing fans to appreciate both the polished and spontaneous aspects of Bennett’s artistry. Overall, “Sings the Ultimate American Songbook, Volume 1” solidified Tony Bennett’s legacy as not only a guardian of the American Songbook but also a continually evolving artist who remains relevant across generations.
