The complete overview...
Stefan Huber | Bischofstetten Austria | 09/11/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"First of all, let me mention, that this disk set does not contain any new material, means that you don't have to buy it, if you already own all other Sinatra-Capitol-records. If you are new to the subject, this is definitely the one to start with.
While the original 3 CD boxed set "The Capitol Years" contained selections from each album Sinatra cut for Capitol and listed them chronologically, this one contains only the best! (there seem to have been no intentions while compiling this album, just capturing the highlights of Sinatra's most creative period) Beside the big hit singles like "Love and Marriage", "Young at Heart", and "From here to Eternity", this collection brings together several of Frank's outstanding renditions of American songbook standards (perhaps in the most complete form ever!). This one has all of them, from the revolutionary "I've got you under my Skin" with its famous heartbeat, to Billy May's striking arrangement of "On the sunny Side of the Street". Of course, this collection also does not fail to represent Frank's talent for saloon songs ("In the wee small Hours of the Morning", "One for my Baby",...).
In addition to the extended liner notes and a comprehensive track listing (containing arranger- and conductor-information, as well as recording dates), copyright-years for the remasters are given (therefore making it possible to find out from which one of the several editions of the albums the selections have been taken). Several selections, however, have been taken from the "Entertainer of the Century" series, which fortunately omits album reverb of several older editions of the mono albums, but does not take full advantage of the stereo effect of the period (which is especially noticeable on the selections from "Come swing with me").
This is surely the best way to start collecting Sinatra records. Although I had heard some of these selections a thousand times before, I really had to concentrate on my fingers and feet, when I first got to hear this album in a shop, to avoid finding myself swingin'."
A Great Collection Of A Forgotten Era
Steven Stewart | Liverpool | 08/09/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The name Frank Sinatra is synonymous with with Jazz, Swing and Orchestral sound of music. He had an unmatched vocal talent and his music will always be viewed as legendary. It's hard to believe it's just over 10 years since we unfortunately lost this musical great. The Platinum collection compiles all of his classic greats that anyone and everyone would recognise instantly. His music wasn't made in the same way as todays standards. It wasn't released album by album, and you didn't need crazy looking music videos in order to get people to pay attention. It was music created solely to be performed in front of small audiences at such places like the legendary Copacabana night club. It wasn't music created with cheap gimmicks or a fancy look, it was music. Music from the heart and soul. This is what makes Sinatra the greatest vocalist in history.
Since the days of Sinatra and the Rat Pack, music has slowly gone down hill in regards to vocal ability. With the odd exceptions of course. We needn't fret though, as the Platinum collection gives us the opportunity to relive the Sinatra sound whenever we need to relax.
This is the definitive collection with the classics like "Come Fly With Me" "Love and Marriage" "You Make Me Feel So Young" and "Witchcraft." There's no denying the talent of Sinatra and there's no way you can dismiss this album. If you have even an ounce of respect for Sinatra or that generation of music you will all buy it."
A Great Overview
mistermaxxx@yahoo.com | usa | 12/09/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Frank Sinatra is a Musical statement by just saying His name.His Phrasing&tone are timeless. this is a collection that is a strong Introduction to His Greatness. great Arrangements that Compliment His Trademark Voice. standard songs&a great overview.this is a Great start to your Sinatra Collection."
Track Listings (48) - Disc #1