Lush Life
LUSH LIFE is one out of the three Ronstadt forays into the world of jazz standards and WWII-era pop numbers. Like its companions WHAT'S NEW and FOR SENTIMENTAL REASONS, it captures the multi-faceted soprano buoyed by Nelson Riddle's big band stylings. Riddle, the former Frank Sinatra arranger, employs such luminaries as Louie Bellson, Peter Asher and Don Grolnick to aid Ronstadt along the journey. Ronstadt's interpretations range from the delightful and playful to sassy and romantic. At times the orchestration can get a little too sweet, but Ronstadt sings such faves as "When I Fall In Love," "Skylark," "Sophisticated Lady," "Falling In Love Again," "Lush Life" and "You Took Advantage Of Me" with enough charm and grace to overshadow some of Riddle's overly ambitious arrangements. Live Recording Recorded at The Complex, Los Angeles between August 24 and October 5, 1984. Personnel includes: Linda Ronstadt (vocals); Bob Mann (guitar); David Frisina (violin); Tommy Morgan (harmonica); Plas Johnson (tenor saxophone); Oscar Brashear, Tony Terran (trumpet); Chauncey Welsch (trombone); Don Grolnick (piano); Bob Mangnussen (bass); Louis Bellson, John Guerin (drums).