This is a wonderful LP from the great French Italian singer Caterina Valente.
A talented vocalist and guitarist - this album arranges standards from Cole Porter and Henry Mancini amongst others , and heads towards a sunny bossanova influence.
She also covers the Brazilian greats Luis Bonfa and of course Antonio Carlos Jobim.
Its been reported that Valente spoke six languages fluently and sang in thirteen.
Indeed some tunes on the album have her singing in two different languages on a single track!
Her syncopation is a refreshing take on “Moon River” - you think you’ve heard what the song should be… until we hear Valente’s interpretation.
Sometimes singing in English when you are not a native English speaker imparts a charm and uniqueness in diction - and that’s what we have here.
Think also of Swedens Abba a decade later - and the charm and appeal of their singing.
She was a success in the US as well as Europe and beyond- and appeared with Dean Martin on his show, as well as Ed Sullivan.
Indeed, it was a You Tube Dean Martin appearance in 1967 that brought her to my attention - and this album is an excellent representation of her work at this time.
Over the years she also worked with legends such as Chet Baker , Count Basie , Bing Crosby and Edmondo Ros - amongst others.
She even made numerous films in the 50’s and 60’s.
This is a wonderful LP from this supremely talented ,multilingual and multi-faceted songstress - more info here: