Search - Various Artists, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman :: The Fabulous Forties

Brings back memories...

04/08/2000

(3 out of 5 stars)

"of your scratchy 78's and static on the RCA receiver. Thefidelity of many of the cuts is something to be desired. I amdisappointed, and feel that I've been misled by the packaging wording; that some "super-duper" software was used to eliminate all the snap, crackle and pops of the individual tunes; when in reality -- it seems that this software "enchances" the disturbing noises. (Or maybe they forgot to turn on their computer when they cleaned up the cuts). When you finally break open the shrink wrap and read the real story -- you find these tunes are NOT the POLISHED, well REHEARSED versions that you would expect in a compilation such as this. Many are live performances and/or radio air checks (versions recorded during a broadcast via a distant radio). Therefore, many of the cuts are not the best of the artists'. Some of the supposedly "upbeat swing tunes" are dull, ponderous, and uninspiring.Now, to be FAIR -- There are many tunes here that you normally would NOT expect on a 40's big band album. Where else can you hear the melodious King Cole Trio performing "Straighten Up and Fly Right", and Nat's velvity version of "It's Only a Paper Moon"? (The most pleasing version I've heard to date). Or, hearing Frank Sinatra and the Pied Pipers doing " Let's Get Away From It All"? It reminds you of the time when music was FUN to listen to; and any gentleman and lady could enjoy dancing as a SOCIAL ACTIVITY.Well, if you want an album with raw tunes as a historical perspective of our past pop culture -- then this compilation is a TREASURE. If you're looking for high fidelity and clean recordings -- then look somewhere else. I just wish the producers were more HONEST in their shrink-wrapped promotion. END"