Search - Nat King Cole :: Ballads of the Day

Excellent Easy Listening Music!

AbeStreet | Mayfield Heights, OH United States | 08/27/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Having a father that is 45 years my senior had it's drawbacks while growing up. I never got to listen to what I wanted to when he was around. I was forced to listen to his music dating back to the 40's and 50's. As a result over time I grew to like the big band era music and jazz of that era. One of the most popular singers of that age was Nat "King" Cole and I became a big fan. Recently my father gave me his album collection and I have been copying some of the albums to cd. One of the first albums to get transferred was NAT "KING" COLE SINGS BALLADS OF THE DAY.This is a really good album. It does not have his two most recognizable songs "Mona Lisa" or "Unforgettable" on it but it does have many other gems. The album starts off with "A Blossom Fell" which sets the tone for the album. Most of the songs follow in the same romantic mood. Songs such as "Unbelievable" and "Smile". The albums ending song "The Sand and the Sea" is a favorite of mine. The only song I do not really care for is Angel Eyes. With it's slightly louder arrangement it breaks the mood, at least for me.The album cover, at least for the 1956 original album, really hints at what this album is about. There is a close up of Nat walking through a moon lit park with the city in the back ground. Over his shoulder is a couple walking past Nat with their arms around eachother. When listening to the music and looking at the cover one could imagine Nat is serenading the couple. This is what album art is about.Lastly, the orchestra was conducted by Nelson Riddle. I would suggest listening to this album with the volume up. Not blaring but not just at the background music setting either. The orchestra really complements Nat "King" Cole and the listener will appreaciate all the instrumental detail that is present. Hopefully the cd will be released again for other fans of Nat and Nelson to enjoy.Songs:A Blossom Fell
Unbelievable
Blue Gardenia
Angel Eyes
It Happens to Be Me
Smile
Darling, Je Vous Aime Beauscoup
Alone Too Long
My One Sin
Return to Paradise
If Love is Good To Me
The Sand and the Sea"