Hi-Fi Highlights--March 2008

Chet Atkins and Les Paul Chester & Lester (RCA Nashville/Legacy) 1976/2007      Something magical always seems to occur when musical masters sit down and jam. Back in 1975, that's exactly what happened when Atkins and Paul spent a few days together in Nashville, and this disc, freshly reissued with four previously unheard cuts added to the 10 original tracks, presents myriad captivating guitar-picking moments.      The duo's interpretation of "It Had To Be You" is thoroughly dreamy, with Atkins' delicate introduction setting the tone before Paul ­ who first played the song with his trio decades earlier ­ carries the melody with near flawless finger work. Two different takes of the classic "Caravan" are also offered: a traditional arrangement based on Atkins' 1954 recording and a more loosely executed rehearsal rendition. Both are impressive. Throughout the album Atkins' country style and Paul's pioneering proto-pop sound blend perfectly, ensuring that these nostalgic standards, along with the men performing them, remain truly timeless. -- Jeff Berkwits

Various Artists Did You Know These Stars Also Sang?  (Jasmine) 2007      Everyone knows performers like Lauren Bacall, Joan Crawford, and Marlon Brando are fine actors, but as the title of this unusual package asks, who knew they could sing? The two CDs that comprise the collection address that question, spanning over 20 years of Hollywood history and showcasing the singing talents of more than two dozen Tinseltown legends.      Despite consistently poor audio quality (many of the 55 mono numbers are lifted directly from movie prints), the recording reveals an ear-opening selection of overlooked vocal gems. Gracie Allen offers fun flapper frivolity on the title track to the 1939 film Honolulu, while Jack Lemmon (with June Allyson) provides some enormously inviting melodic moments on "Temporarily" from the 1956 romantic comedy You Can't Run Away From It. Other notable readings include hard-hitting Humphrey Bogart's not-so-tough "twinkie deedle dum, twinkie deedle dee" refrain on "The Bold Fisherman" (from a 1952 radio show), Susan Hayward's emotional take on the title tune to the 1955 movie I'll Cry Tomorrow, and the sweet longing of Ann Sheridan's "In Waikiki" from the 1941 comedy Navy Blues.       Unlike Rhino Records' infamous Golden Throats albums, which spotlight dreadful celebrity performances, most of the cuts here are genuinely enjoyable. Some efforts are weaker than others – there's little question that, after hearing her three contributions, few folks will ever sing the praises of Barbara Stanwyck's voice – and the ambient noises (laughter, vocal digressions, etc.) can at times be distracting, but overall this is a worthwhile collection for folks who enjoy discovering hidden Hollywood gems. -- Jeff Berkwits

Tiba Jukebox Baby  (Fynsworth Alley) 2007      Imagine growing up in a home filled with old-fashioned furnishings, where the kitchen refrigerator was an antique Coke machine and pop standards spewed from seven separate jukeboxes. That environment wholly informs the music of Tiba, a charming chanteuse whose appreciation of vintage melodies is clearly shaped by her unique childhood surroundings.       The spare instrumentation of the leadoff cut, "Sway," showcases a sultry voice brimming with vibrato and verve, a beguiling approach that imparts subsequent numbers like "I'll Be Seeing You" and "Can't Help Falling In Love" with similar passion and pizzazz. Another standout effort is "Love Is So Terrific," which Tiba imbues with a fun Betty Boop bounce. "Earth Angel" is somewhat less successful, with a world-weary mid-song aside diminishing the composition's inherent innocence. Fortunately, that's the only significant misstep in an otherwise distinguished 13-track set of luxurious lounge fare. -- Jeff Berkwits

 
 

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