Frank Sinatra - Love Songs

It's hard to imagine now, but Frank Sinatra was one of pop's original teen heartthrobs (not that the "talents" in the Backstreet Boys or 'N Sync should hold their breath!), a slender young crooner with a sweet delivery and a demeanor that hadn't yet been toughened by hard knocks, a broken heart, and helping close a few too many saloons. This album not only collects 15 of the romantic ballads that helped build Frankie's legend, it's a virtual valentine card to both Sinatra novices and collectors alike. Cut between 1943 and 1952, these songs reveal a singer whose pure, warm tones may surprise those who only know him from his swingin', gin-slingin' Rat Pack persona. There are indeed musical precursors to that era (Gershwin's "Embraceable You" and the future Dino theme "Everybody Loves Somebody"), but they're performed with a gentle sincerity more akin to Bing Crosby. Seasoned Sinatraphiles should also be pleased; nearly half the cuts here are previously unreleased alternate takes that give further insight into the roots and evolution of his remarkable gift for phrasing. --Jerry McCulley