Songs From Stage And Screen Review

07/13/2005 7:39 AM, AMG


As an introduction to their new "Songbook Series," Capitol has reeled together a sampling of one of the greatest interpreters of the Great American Songbook. On this CD (one of two in the Cole-ection), Cole takes listeners on a musical trip through WWII era celluloid history. From the crisp phrasing of "I'm Shooting High" and the lyrical recitation of "Love Letters" to the string-fed themes of "An Affair to Remember" and the reluctant romance of "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face," this collection demonstrates Cole's command of both music and mood. Lerner and Lowe's "Almost Like Being in Love" swings at a peppy pace while Waller's "Ain't Misbehavin'" floats along on Cole's warm vocal breezes. Though the movies may not all be that memorable (anyone have Hello Frisco Hello on DVD?), the voice is unmistakable and can now be conveniently preserved for future generations of music lovers to treasure. ~ Matthew Robinson, All Music Guide