Frank Sinatra
Seduction: Sinatra Sings of Love
Reprise
You can never have too much Sinatra. This fine collection happens to coincide with the new Twyla Tharp production Come Fly With Me, which opens this month at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre.
The album features a cross-section of impeccable Sinatra standards built around the theme of wooing women, something he knew a little about.
With this selection of songs, it’s hard to pick out the highlights – they all are. Among 22 exceptional tracks, you’ve got Cole Porter’s “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” the Gershwins’ “They Can’t Take That Away From Me,” Rogers and Hammerstein’s “Some Enchanted Evening” and an alternate version of Rogers and Hart’s “My Funny Valentine.”
The title of the record refers to the first time Sinatra got arrested, in 1938, on a charge of “seduction.” (The next time he got busted was for “adultery.” At least the guy was consistent). His defiant mug shot is included here for good measure, as are some very amusing liner notes by Bill Zehme, who a few years ago wrote the excellent book The Way You Wear Your Hat: Frank Sinatra and the Lost Art of Livin’.
As for Tharp, the renowned choreographer is quite a Frank fan – this is the fourth time she has celebrated his work with a production of her own. Tharp also has the advantage of having known Sinatra personally. She received his blessing and observed first-hand his respect and admiration for dancers and their work. This latest creation stays at the Alliance until October 11 and will tour nationally in 2010.
