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Steve Allen is known by most as the founder of the talk show; he preceded the incomparable Carson. Many are aware that he was also a composer, a prolific writer of American pop.
And he wrote some really good stuff, some of which is on this CD.
I bought this CD because of the wonderful phrasings and stylizations of George Bugatti. I have been to several of his shows at the Bellagio in Las Vegas, and he reminds of why I still find myself listening to a Sinatra or Bennett CD on occasion; there are moods that, at least for me, only this kind of music fit. (Just as there are other times when only Willie Nelson or Bruce Springsteen or Beethoven will do.) If you are in Vegas for a business convention or just a vacation, do yourself a favor and check this guy out while he's still here. (Too late, he is no longer here.) I have probably sat through at dozens of sets; I have yet to hear two exactly the same so Mr. Bugatti must know an incredible number of songs. Every night, I learn something and quite often hear a song I'd never heard before.
His version of "Singing in the Rain" is particularly noteworthy. As George explains it during his show, Gene Kelly came to see him on Saturday nights while he was playing in Beverly Hills. Long story short, a friendship developed and Mr. Kelly taught George the first verse of the song. It was cut from the film for being "not commercial" and it has never been recorded. If I remember correctly, George plans to include it on his next CD. (He included the song but not the first verse. Why?)
I also feel that I should comment about George's band; the bassist, drummer, and sax player are all outstanding. I've seen a lot of acts, and a lot of sax players can't hit the high notes like this guy.
Impossible
Liked the intro part of the song, a real finger-snapper.
Rainy Weather
George really shines on ballads; this one is short and sweet.
Oh, What a Night for Love
Good song if you're in the right mood . . . you swing dancers out there will love it.
You're Something
I'm not much for lists like this; I found it stilted and pretentious, however much I appreciate George's effort.
I Hate New York
And I love this song. Gotta give Steve Allen his due, when he writes it right, he gets it said and George kills this number. (He's a native New Yorker, so he knows those Broadway lights.)
Mister Moon
Another good finger-snapper, but not particularly memorable.
After You
Another wonderful ballad by Steve Allen, and George Bugatti does an incredible interpretation. If you're carrying a torch, this one will hit you where you live.
Don't Cry, Little Girl
A simple, harmless - but totally forgettable - song.
Playing the Field
Good jazzy number, about a guy trying to convince himself how great the bachelor life is.
Spring is Where You Are
When I first heard this, I didn't like it at all. But it's grown on me like a fungus. No, actually, George does a fine interpretation of this well-written metaphor.
Kiss Me First
I just plain can't stand this one. Sorry.
An Old Piano Plays the Blues
This is my favorite song on the CD. This is familiar ground for piano men, but it's never been explored better. The theme is reminiscent of the Billy Joel/Ray Charles duet, "Baby Grand." It also reminds me of one of favorite pop songs from 1979; I can no longer remember the name of the song or artist, but it contained these unforgettable lines:
"Sometimes late at night,
When there's no one here but me and my piano,
I'd almost give my hands to have her see things my way."
Well, that's my thoughts. As always, I'm open to feedback.
For more info or to order from Amazon, click here
Last updated March 17, 2002. Copyright (c) 2002, Lone Wolf Reviews.
