Jerry Vale

Jerry Vale entered the studio with arranger/conductor Al Capps in November of 1971 to record a tribute album to Nat "King" Cole. Over the course of three days, they cut a number of songs, which were eventually released as the 11-track album Jerry Vale Sings the Great Hits of Nat King Cole. Although Vale was past his prime at the time the record was released in 1972, it remained one of his better album projects. Capps' arrangements may have been a little syrupy, but appealingly so, and Vale remained in good voice. And, of course, there are the songs -- the vocalist, producer and arranger all picked a wonderful set of Cole favorites, like "Nature Boy," "Mona Lisa," "Walkin' My Baby Back Home," "Too Young" and "Ramblin' Rose," all of which are well-crafted standards ideal for Vale's pure, clear light baritone. It's an affectionate tribute to a great musician, and a fine Vale album in its own right. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine, All Music Guide