"That Old Feeling" / A Winner All the Way!
04/05/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In 1960, Brook Benton, under contract to Mercury Records, recorded an LP entitled "Songs I Love to Sing," a collection of romantic standards with lush orchestral backing conducted by Glenn Osser. In 1965, under contract to RCA Victor, he recorded another such album, again with Glenn Osser, entitled "That Old Feeling." These are my two favorite Brook Benton albums. I am therefore delighted that his RCA sessions are included on this import compilation. His version of "Moon River" is one of the best that I'll ever hear by a male vocalist. The same can be said for "Hey, There." It was as if I were listening to that song for the first time. As for "Blue Moon" I am simply carried off to another place. He includes an introductory verse to the song that is often omitted by other singers. Never have I heard "Peg o' My Heart" sung as love song in such a wistful manner. The song "Love is a Many Splendored Thing" makes me forget most other versions. Although most of the songs are ballads, the remaining selections are up tempo numbers with the orchestra conducted by Billy May. Brook Benton easily proves that he can belt as well as croon, but I prefer his romantic stylings. The sound is beautifully remastered, and Brook never sounded better. Now, if only Polygram would re-issue his 1960 Mercury LP."
Track Listings (20) - Disc #1