Frank Sinatra - Ultimate Sinatra (2LP)

When one thinks of the golden age of American crooners, one name invariably stands above the rest: Frank Sinatra. Known for his impeccable phrasing, deep emotional resonance, and a voice that's both powerful and tender, Sinatra left an indelible mark on music. "Ultimate Sinatra," released in 2015, is a comprehensive collection that spans his illustrious career, capturing the essence of why Sinatra is often dubbed "The Voice.".

With over two dozen tracks, "Ultimate Sinatra" offers both the classics and lesser-known gems. Tracks like "I've Got You Under My Skin" and "Fly Me To The Moon" epitomize Sinatra's unique ability to convey deep emotion with just a few notes. His masterful control over dynamics, transitioning from soft, intimate whispers to powerful belts, is on full display..

But Sinatra wasn't just a master of the ballad. Upbeat tracks like "The Way You Look Tonight" and "Luck Be A Lady" showcase his versatility, offering a playful, jazz-infused energy that can make anyone tap their feet..

One of the standout features of this collection is its chronological arrangement. Starting with early tracks like "All or Nothing At All," listeners can trace Sinatra's evolution as an artist. It's fascinating to observe the maturation of his voice, the slight changes in timbre, and the ever-present charisma that made him a standout..

The compilation also underscores Sinatra's collaborations with various arrangers and orchestras over the years. Whether it's the lush strings of Nelson Riddle's arrangements or the brassy punch of Count Basie's band, each collaboration brought out different facets of Sinatra's artistry..

"Ultimate Sinatra" also delves into Sinatra's more introspective tracks. Songs like "In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning" and "One For My Baby (And One More For The Road)" offer a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the depths of his soul, revealing a vulnerability that added depth to his larger-than-life persona..

The album concludes with "Theme from New York, New York," a fitting finale that captures the spirit of Sinatra – timeless, iconic, and inextricably linked to the tapestry of American music..

In conclusion, "Ultimate Sinatra" is more than just a compilation; it's a journey through the career of one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Whether you're a longtime Sinatra aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore his discography, this collection offers a definitive look at the man, the legend, and the voice that continues to inspire generations..

What is "Ultimate Sinatra" and how does it stand out in Frank Sinatra's discography?.

"Ultimate Sinatra" is a comprehensive compilation album that celebrates Frank Sinatra's 100th birthday. Spanning his immense career, this collection gathers songs from his early years with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra to his later hits on Reprise Records. While Sinatra has had numerous compilations over the years, "Ultimate Sinatra" is distinctive due to its wide-ranging tracklist and the remastered versions of classic tunes, making it a prime introduction to Sinatra's expansive body of work..

Are there any previously unreleased tracks on this album?.

Yes, "Ultimate Sinatra" features a previously unreleased rehearsal recording of "The Surrey With The Fringe On Top" from 1979. This inclusion is a treat for Sinatra aficionados, offering a glimpse into his recording process and the meticulous care he took with each song..

How were the tracks selected for "Ultimate Sinatra"?.

The tracks on "Ultimate Sinatra" were carefully curated to showcase the breadth and depth of Sinatra's artistry. From iconic hits like "My Way" and "Fly Me To The Moon" to lesser-known gems, this compilation endeavors to present a holistic view of Sinatra's illustrious career, capturing different eras, moods, and stylistic evolutions..

How did critics and fans receive "Ultimate Sinatra"?.

The compilation was generally well-received, especially by those looking for an encompassing overview of Sinatra's work. Critics praised the remastered tracks for their clarity, bringing a fresh vibrancy to old classics. However, some hardcore Sinatra fans felt that no single compilation could truly capture the essence of Sinatra's expansive career and preferred specific album experiences or other curated collections..

Why is Frank Sinatra still considered influential, and how does this compilation underscore his legacy?.

Frank Sinatra is hailed as one of the greatest vocalists of the 20th century, setting the standard for phrasing, timing, and emotional delivery. His ability to convey deep emotion made each song uniquely resonant. Furthermore, his collaborations with celebrated arrangers and composers brought a new level of sophistication to popular music. "Ultimate Sinatra" underscores this legacy by presenting a cross-section of his best works, reminding listeners of his unparalleled contribution to music and the timeless nature of his artistry.