Verve, 1960
Swings Shubert Alley, released in 1960 on Verve Records, showcases vocalist Mel Tormé at the height of his powers, interpreting Broadway standards with impeccable phrasing and swing, backed The Marty Paich Orchestra. Known as “The Velvet Fog,” Tormé here demonstrates both his jazz sensibility and his mastery of the Great American Songbook, in a program drawn entirely from shows that were then lighting up New York’s Shubert Alley theater district. Produced by Russell Garcia, who also arranged and conducted, the album features a brassy ensemble, including Art Pepper on alto sax, Bill Perkins on tenor sax, and Frank Rosolinoon trombone, with a rhythm section anchored by pianist and arranger Marty Paich, bassist Joe Mondragon, and drummer Mel Lewis. The repertoire includes “A Sleepin’ Bee,” “All I Need is a Girl,” and “The Surrey with the Fringe On Top,” among other highlights — all delivered with Tormé’s effortless diction and deep charisma. Swings Shubert Alley situates Tormé in a high echelon of jazz singers while demonstrating his individuality as a reader of standards. Today, it remains one of his most celebrated studio efforts, bridging the worlds of Broadway and jazz with style and conviction.
Tracklist
Side A
Side B
The Verve Vault series is always mastered from analog tapes and pressed on 180g vinyl at Optimal.
