Frank Sinatra Classic Sinatra CD

Digitally remastered using 24-bit technology by Bob Norberg (Capitol Mastering).

Sinatra's years on the Capitol label (1953-60) were great years. His voice had matured into a powerful and poignant instrument; his sense of swing was infallible; and he was blessed with an innovative and sophisticated arranger, Nelson Riddle, whose charts fit Sinatra like a beautiful suit.

This one-disc compilation of 20 songs includes many classics: "I've Got You Under My Skin," "You Make Me Feel So Young," "The Lady Is a Tramp," In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning," and "One For My Baby (And One More For the Road)." The packaging is attractive (with some great photos of Sinatra) and the digital re-mastering was done right.

Also included are updated versions of songs Sinatra sang in his earlier years ("Oh! Look At Me Now," and "Night and Day"). While this CD is not all-inclusive--some of the more melancholy songs of these years are omitted--it's a collection that can be listened to again and again.

Recorded between 1953 and 1960. Includes liner notes by Bruce Springsteen and Pete Hamill.

Personnel includes: Frank Sinatra (vocals); Nelson Riddle, Billy May (arranger, conductor).

Q (9/00, p.128) - 4 stars out of 5 - "...The casual fan and the newcomer to the Sinatra canon will be well served here....bringing to mind not just music or a man but an era of classic American songwriting."