I would love to discover more albums from artists (preferably but not limited to artists that existed or began in the 40's through 60's) that wouldn't be out of place alongside albums such as Frank Sinatra 'In the Wee Small Hours' or 'Where are You'. Listed here are some examples of albums that I would place in this category:
Thanks for the recommendation. i immediately ordered a CD copy that is a two-for-one release that also includes 'Sophisticated Lady' - i was curious when i saw that 'For the Night People' was released in 1966, afraid for a moment that there would be Beatles covers or another version of 'Little Green Apples' but the song list looks really great. Thanks!
Thanks for this suggestion. I found this on Wikipedia: The initial Billboard review from April 13, 1963 commented that "Here he is in a superb collection of ballad tunes, many of them in a lonesome, blue mood, with standout backing provided by Gordon Jenkins...Great mood wax for buyers and spinners". This sounds like a perfect addition, unfortunately the only cd issue is really expensive now so hopefully I can find a vinyl copy in good shape. [/QUOTE]
This group Bohren & der Club of Gore released their first album in 1994 but have managed to capture the classic dark and rainy street mood and atmosphere of so many noir movies and album covers like Sinatra’s ‘In the Wee Small Hours’ painting. Their albums are all instrumental and usually referred to as ‘dark jazz’. It would be amazing to hear them backing a 40s or 50s type vocalist singing ‘Street of Dreams’ etc.
You'd have thought Dean Martin would have made an album with the same late night lonely theme. So far I can't find one. Not sure if Sammy Davis did either.
Thanks - it’s a little too much of a swingin’ album to fit in exactly for this category but I just found a good copy and ordered it because it sounds great.
Thanks - very interesting suggestion. I had not previously listened to Frankie Laine although I’ve probably heard him in a movie unknowingly.
Yes - that is a great album of course. Also ‘She Shot Me Down’ from 1981 - which I think is probably the best of his later albums.
Thanks - I’m finding more and more Julie London that fits the bill. ‘For the Night People’ was suggested earlier and it’s great. I also am really into her first album ‘Julie is Her Name’ (also vol.2) - the arrangements are strictly guitar and bass which creates a splendidly languid and noir-ish atmosphere coupled with her voice.