The World of Nat King Cole (CD - 2005)

Personnel: Nat King Cole (vocals, piano); Irving Ashby, Oscar Moore, John Collins (guitar); Johnny Miller, Joe Comfort, Charlie Harris (bass instrument).

Liner Note Author: Natalie Cole.

If there are radio stations in the afterlife, one thing is certain--at least one channel is eternally playing Nat "King" Cole. With his butter-rich baritone and the intimate warmth of his delivery, Cole cuts straight to the soul and through the ages. Longtime fans will likely own the songs featured here on original studio albums or previously released compilations, but THE WORLD OF NAT KING COLE skims the cream from Cole's pop career, making it an excellent place for beginners or those seeking an economical best-of set.

Some of the finest cuts here are from Cole's early-1960s work with his trio. Spare, mellow, and flawlessly executed, treatments of "It's Only a Paper Moon" and "(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons," among others, are enough to melt the heart on first listen. (These tunes also showcase Cole's deft touch on piano.) The remaining tracks feature Cole performing with orchestras led by luminaries Nelson Riddle, Billy May, Les Baxter, and Stan Kenton, along with other highly memorable sides, including "Mona Lisa" and two versions of "Unforgettable" (the original and the posthumous duet with daughter Natalie). Concise and well selected, this is an outstanding collection focusing on the key songs of a truly legendary singer. minimize