“Portraits on Standards” – Stan Kenton
Compared to his other records, “Portrait on Standards” is a soft, subtle, stripped-back album from Stan Kenton and his big band.
“Satchmo Serenades” – Louis Armstrong
“Satchmo Serenades” is Louis Armstrong’s lover man album: a romantic collection of swinging ballads that features him at his most syrupy.
“Billie Holiday” (1947) – Billie Holiday
This 1947 collection of eight Billie Holiday classics from Commodore Records features the jazz singer at her absolute best.
“Rendezvous With Peggy Lee” Album Review
“Rendezvous With Peggy Lee” is a quintessential collection of the jazz singer’s sultry brand of 1940s swing.
“Ella Sings Gershwin” Album Review
“Ella Sings Gershwin” is a fine, occasionally fantastic album.
Greatest Albums of the 1930s
The popularization of radio and the onset of the Great Depression led to a new era in popular music. Read about the Greatest Albums of the 1930s.
Songs for Swingin’ Lovers!
Frank Sinatra’s most popular album is as timeless now as the day it was released.
Grade: A
The Wildest!
One of the most fun albums ever released.
Grade: A
In the Wee Small Hours – Frank Sinatra
The first, great pop album.
Grade: A+
Frank Sinatra in 1954
Brief reviews of 2 seminal Frank Sinatra LPs from 1954.
“The Astaire Story” – Fred Astaire
At two hours long, “The Astaire Story” is a jazzy career retrospective of Fred Astaire’s most popular songs.
Sarah Vaughan – Sarah Vaughan
A rising star showcases her remarkable abilities.
Grade: B+