With the upcoming release of a remake of the 1960 film “Ocean’s 11,” no better time has emerged than this holiday season to also release “Eee-O 11: The Best of The Rat Pack.”
With “The Rat Pack” accumulating more interest than in recent years, Capitol Records decided to compile 18 songs from the three most prominent members: Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and, the leader himself, Frank Sinatra. Sinatra is part of eight songs while Davis, Jr. and Martin are each on six. The album contains two duets.
When the men wanting to be like them and with all the women want to be with them, “The Rat Pack” generated many classic songs and even more attention. Starring in many movies, even musicals, “The Rat Pack” ruled the screen, but more so ruled the radio waves.
Classics such as “Ain’t That A Kick In The Head,” “The Lady Is A Tramp” and “You Make Me Feel So Young” are all part of the new album. After each song, one is reminded more and more of the old big band style of music from the ’50s.
The excellent sounds provided from this album are timeless and can be enjoyed by all ages. Because of the wonderful horns, drums and basslines intertwined with passionate vocals, all who hear will be captivated for at least a moment to absorb the brilliant music.
Capitol Records only added to the brilliance by placing the songs in a continuously flowing order. The opening songs are extremely attention grabbing with “I’m Gonna Live Till I Die” and “Too Close For Comfort,” and eventually roam into arguably the greatest of the greatest hits with “Volare (Nel Blu, Dipinto Di Blu),” “You Make Me Feel So Young” and “Sam’s Song.” Finally the album concludes in a very mellow mood with “Witchcraft” and the title track “Eee-O Eleven.”
Overall, “The Rat Pack” is probably extremely pleased with the most recent release. The suave role models of a generation in the late ’50s have now strolled their way into the next millennium along with years to come.
