Review
Bobby Darin's 1959 album, "That's All," is a vibrant showcase of his transition from teen idol to a sophisticated artist with a flair for the dramatic. Arranged by the talented Richard Wess, the album is a meticulous tapestry of ballads and lively tunes that highlight Darin's impressive range. The sound is a bold fusion of classic big band elements with a rock 'n' roll edge, a style that Darin made distinctively his own. Tracks like "Mack the Knife," with its electrifying key changes and crescendos of tension, and the jaunty, romantic "Beyond the Sea," are prime examples of Darin's ability to infuse old standards with new vitality.
Darin's vocal prowess is undeniable throughout "That's All." His delivery is less polished and more passionate than that of his contemporaries, with a rock-infused rawness that gives his interpretation of the lyrics a unique, personal touch. This is particularly evident in his rendition of "Some of These Days," where he breathes new life into a century-old song, culminating in a performance that's both bluesy and bold. The album's sequencing mirrors a live set, with a careful balance of tempos that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish, building up to the exhilarating title track that often punctuated Darin's live shows. "That's All" wasn't just a commercial triumph, lingering on the Billboard charts for a year and earning Darin a Grammy for Record of the Year, it was a defining moment in his career, cementing his status as a musical chameleon and a star with the power to bridge generations. - Danielle
