Frank Sinatra’s “In The Wee Small Hours” is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time. Released in 1955, it marked a turning point in Sinatra’s career, as he transitioned from his earlier swing-style recordings to a more mature and introspective sound. The album features Sinatra’s trademark crooning vocals, accompanied by lush orchestral arrangements and a sophisticated, jazz-influenced sound. Here is a track listing and review of the album:
In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning: The album’s opening track sets the tone for the entire record. Sinatra’s vocals are hauntingly beautiful, backed by a sparse piano and strings arrangement that perfectly captures the melancholy mood of the lyrics.
Mood Indigo: A classic Duke Ellington tune, Sinatra’s rendition is a masterful interpretation that showcases his ability to infuse a song with his own unique style while remaining true to the original.
Glad To Be Unhappy: This is one of the standout tracks on the album. Sinatra’s delivery is both soulful and restrained, and the arrangement features a gorgeous string section that perfectly complements his vocals.
I Get Along Without You Very Well: Another poignant ballad that showcases Sinatra’s emotional depth and sensitivity as a singer. The arrangement is understated, allowing the lyrics and vocals to take center stage.
Deep In A Dream: Sinatra’s rendition of this classic standard is one of the album’s most hauntingly beautiful moments. The combination of his soaring vocals and the lush orchestration creates a truly magical listening experience.
I See Your Face Before Me: Sinatra’s delivery on this track is both tender and soulful, and the arrangement features some of the album’s most beautiful string work.
Can’t We Be Friends?: This is one of the more upbeat tracks on the album, featuring a swinging jazz-infused arrangement that showcases Sinatra’s versatility as a vocalist.
When Your Lover Has Gone: Sinatra’s rendition of this classic ballad is heart-wrenching and emotional, showcasing his ability to infuse a song with raw emotion.
What Is This Thing Called Love?: Another upbeat track, featuring a swinging arrangement and Sinatra’s trademark crooning vocals.
Last Night When We Were Young: This track is another standout moment on the album. Sinatra’s vocals are absolutely gorgeous, and the arrangement features some of the most beautiful string work on the entire record.
I’ll Be Around: This is another poignant ballad that showcases Sinatra’s emotional depth as a singer. The arrangement is understated, allowing the lyrics and vocals to take center stage.
Ill Wind: The album’s closing track is a beautiful and melancholic ballad that perfectly captures the overall mood of the record.
Overall, “In The Wee Small Hours” is a masterpiece of introspective balladry, showcasing Sinatra’s unparalleled ability to convey raw emotion through his vocals. The album’s lush orchestral arrangements and sophisticated jazz-influenced sound make it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.
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