The title of this 1960 album says it all: The Velvet Fog sings jazz interpretations of songs from the heart of Manhattan’s theatrical district. Tormé's instantly recognizable voice is at ease with these Broadway tunes written between 1943 and 1959. Interacting with the agile and responsive Marty Paich Orchestra, he offers a smooth take on “A Sleepin’ Bee” and a suave interpretation of “Just in Time.” With his gravitas, Oklahoma's “Surrey with the Fringe on Top” sounds surprisingly sophisticated, while his refined instrument resembles a wailing alto saxophone during On the Town's “Lonely Town.” An energetic version of “On the Street Where You Live” (with the band hiply quoting both “I’m Beginning to See the Light” and “Old Man River”) is highly recommended.
