Johnny Mercer

Johnny Mercer wasn't just one of the finest comic (and otherwise) songwriters in American pop history, he was also one of its finest singers -- and when he wasn't writing or singing, he found the time to produce and arrange for the label he'd founded, Capitol. The DRG compilation Mercer Sings Mercer unites all three (or four) of these pursuits, with a set of 23 songs -- all of them sung, performed, and produced by Mercer (and all but one written by him). Although anyone scanning the track listing might think it a bit disposable for including plenty of hits, it should be noted that most of these are not the hit versions -- they're better than that. These versions are usually looser and more freewheeling than the hit versions, and they include excellent guests, like comedian Phil Silvers for a few lines on "Strip Polka," Wingy Manone on "The Tailgate Ramble," Jack Teagarden on "The Old Music Master," and Jo Stafford for several sides. Solid rarities ("Cindy Lou," "Conversation While Dancing" stand next to twists on his standards ("Strip Polka," "G.I. Jive") and although recording details would have been appreciated, Will Friedwald's lengthy notes explain each song's origins (session-wise and otherwise-wise). The net result is the best single-disc Johnny Mercer compilation, unless you just want a straight reading of his greatest hits (great as they are). ~ John Bush, All Music Guide