

Mel Tormé's famed charisma extended beyond his biggest hits. The aptly nicknamed Velvet Fog could make even his outliers crackle with personality, whether slipping into the roller-coaster jazz of “On Green Dolphin Street” or softly crooning for the string-kissed pop of “The Folk Who Live on the Hill.” And just listen to his assured yet sensitive phrasing on “Cross Your Heart,” which oozes articulation and tenderness alike.