#282 Frank Sinatra, 'In the Wee Small Hours' (1955)

Previously #101

Astoundingly in the early 1950s, the world had lost interest in Frank Sinatra. He was in his late 30s, past his prime, supposedly. ‘The Frank Sinatra Show’s’ second season received poor ratings and his label, Columbia decided to drop him. Around the same time, he and his wife, Nancy Barbato had separated, soon to be divorced. 10 days later he would marry Ava Gardner. Things started looking up in 1953, however, when he was signed to a 7-year-deal with Capitol. He gave an Academy Award-winning and Golden Globe-winning performance in ‘From Here To Eternity.’ Two months later, however, Gardner left him sending him into a deep depression. All of this failure and heartache laid the foundation for what would ultimately become arguably the first concept record, ‘In The Wee Small Hours.’  

The album deals with themes of loneliness, lost love, depression and night life. All subjects that Sinatra was qualified to sing. This album would have been cathartic for Sinatra, a way to deal with all the emotions of the past few years. It’s one of the saddest yet most beautiful albums ever. His voice like honey. This is one of my favourite late night albums.

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