Search - Tony Bennett :: Good Life

Some Good Numbers For A Budget Reissue

Mike King | Taunton, MA United States | 07/20/2003

(4 out of 5 stars)

"You've got to like a low priced collection that starts off with the singer's signature song."I Left My Heart In San Francisco" only reached number 19 in 1962, but it is the one song most closely associated with Tony Bennett. It has stood the test of time very well, featuring a powerful vocal performance of a great song."In The Middle Of An Island" went all the way to number 9 in 1957. With its ukulele and steel guitar backing, it verges on being a novelty song. Maybe that's why, despite its high chart showing, it was not included on Tony Bennett's boxed set. "Just In Time" is a great standard, with a musical arrangement very reminiscent of Nelson Riddle's arrangements for Frank Sinatra."Young And Warm And Wonderful" is a slow ballad with a syrupy string backing. Tony's vocals lift this song above mediocrity."Come Rain Or Come Shine" is a bluesy tune with a tasty musical backing. Just listen to Tony flawlessly sustaining that last note! "You'll Never Get Away From Me" features a strong vocal performance effortlessly overpowering a brassy musical backing."The Good Life" is a mid-tempo ballad that peaked at number 18 in 1963. It's another moving performance of a great tune."Taking A Chance On Love" is performed in an up-tempo style, much faster than the standard versions of this song. If this song doesn't get your fingers snapping and your toes tapping, call your doctor immediately!"Fly Me To The Moon" starts off with its little known introduction, making the arrival of the familiar melody and lyrics sound all the more dramatic. Ignore the intrusive background singers, and concentrate on the great piano and saxophone backing. "My Funny Valentine" features one of Tony's most subtle vocal performances. The tasty backing includes a standup bass, piano and drums. This version sounds like the last number at an after hours jazz club, and is the perfect ending for this collection."

The good life indeed

Jake | USA | 06/28/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This was a CD I picked up at Target because it was cheap and I was trying to broaden my musical horizons. I was quite surprised with the sound quality and the wonderful songs that appeared on the CD. Everyone knows that Tony has a wonderful voice, unless they aren't familiar with him, in which case I'd have to say, I'm sorry for you. He brings a certain something a song that only a few others can do. Frank Sinatra or possibly Dean Martin can do the same thing, it just goes to show that Tony is in that upper class of singers that anyone can listen to. Amazon has a good price, so pick it up if you are interested in Tony's work."

Short but brilliant

Westley | Stuck in my head | 01/17/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I didn't know much about Tony Bennett's work until I picked up this CD. It only runs for a little over 27 minutes, but I am stunned by how much I enjoy it every time. For the casual Tony Bennett fan, this CD serves as a good intro to his work. It definitely made me more interested in him and I have bought several CD by him and similar artists since."