Sinatra’s fans are just as fervent as those of Dylan and the Dead when it comes to trading privately taped concert recordings. Officially released for the first time here are two of the most sought-after.
The Blackpool show came at a crucial juncture in Sinatra’s career. He’d just signed to Capitol, and From Here To Eternity had yet to premiere. His personal stock may have been dangerously low but he still possessed that ability to mesmerise an audience. The orchestral accompaniment may sound as if it’s in another room, but Sinatra confirms his undisputed greatness as he jokes as well as he croons.
The Tokyo show benefits from much better sound quality, with the Bill Miller Sextet miraculously retaining the essence of Sinatra’s studio versions of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” and “I Get A Kick Out Of You”.