There is no questioning that Julie London’s sultry voice lent itself beautifully to these Latin standards. The problems come from Ernie Freeman’s uninspired arrangements, which all carry the trappings of commercial music for an undemanding popular music audience of the time.
Another negative is the constant, unnecessary interpolation of a male chorus, which over 60 years later, proves to be less than music to the ears.
The glamorous persona London became famous for led to her image adorning the front cover of most of her albums, some of which were very good indeed. But even the most charitable London devotees would probably admit to this one’s cover being the best thing about it.
This is clearly not a jazz album, despite its reissue here on Jazz Wax (on 180gm vinyl).
Discography
Frenesí; Be Mine Tonight (Noche De Ronda); Yours (Quiéreme Mucho); Besame Mucho; Adios; Sway (Quién Será); Perfidia; Come Closer To Me (Acércate Más); Amor; Magic Is The Moonlight (Te Quiero, Dijiste); You Belong To My Heart (Solamente Una Vez); Vaya Con Dios (30.31)
London (v) with Ernie Freeman and his orchestra. Los Angeles, 1962.
Jazz Wax 4601LP
