Music Reviews

Album Review: Dean Martin – ‘Forever Cool’

By Jeff Swindoll Aug 10, 2007, 23:23 GMT

“And now ladies and gentlemen – the star of our show, straight from the bar – Dean Martin!” 

If I had to pick a favorite Rat Pack member it would have to be Dean Martin (Sammy Davis, Jr. might be a close second).  He’s just one of my favorite singers and it has a lot to do with his sense of humor – not that he didn’t have a great singing voice as well. 

Obviously, I’m not the only one since a roster of stars have contributed to this new album.  Through the magic of technology they get to duet with the ghost of Dean Martin. 

They include Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (“Who’s Got the Action” and “You’re Nobody Till Somebody Loves You”), Robbie Williams (“Please Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone”), Paris Bennett (“Baby O”), Joss Stone (“I Can’t Believer that You’re in Love with Me”), Dave Koz (“Just in Time”), Martina McBride (“Baby It’s Cold Outside”), and even Kevin Spacey (yes, THAT Kevin Spacey, “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head” and “King of the Road”). 

Spacey contributes a little comedy to the proceedings as he has a slight bit of commentary with the crooner who tells Spacey to shut up.  The guest stars wisely let Martin take the lead in the proceedings (how could they not since he’s most associated with the songs) and contribute mainly to the choruses, a little duet, or sing a line or two following Dino. 

A Dino solo track is the previously unreleased acapella version of “Brahm’s Lullaby.”  My favorite works might be the tracks where new music has just been added to Dino’s original.  Those contributors include The Capitol Studios Orchestra (“Who Was that Lady”) and Chris Botti (“I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face”).  Whatever the contributors, it’s grand to hear Martin croon again.  Bada-bing baby!

‘Forever Cool’ is now available at Amazon. Visit the music database for more information.