Songs for Lovers
Chet Baker, famed for his clear, melodic trumpet playing, was also an accomplished vocalist in his own right, though these tracks are much less numerous than his instrumental work. Compiling 12 tracks from Chet Baker's early recorded years, 1953-1957, 'Songs for Lovers' features five of Baker's vocal tracks, including three recorded live at the Tiffany Club in Los Angeles in 1954. Mostly featuring recordings with his usual quartet, including pianist Russ Freeman, 'Songs for Lovers' includes a terrific rendition of, 'Come Rain of Come Shine', perfectly showcasing Baker's unique vocal talents. Baker's deceptively simple trumpet playing is prominently displayed throughout, where sparse arrangements add to the quiet, brooding emotion that so suited Baker's subtleties. The wide variety of tracks, and the intriguing glimpse at Baker's early years, makes 'Songs for Lovers' a must own for fans, old and new alike.