Mel Torme: An Evening With Mel Torme

In essence, the soundtrack for an A&E TV special, even without the visual element, there is much to enjoy in the music alone. Beginning with a bright “Just One Of Those Things” and its interpolation of “On Green Dolphin Street,” Mel continues with “You Make Me Feel So Young,” “A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square,” “Pick Yourself Up,” “Love For Sale,” and “Since I Fell For You,” and peaks with a swinging tribute to Benny Goodman, a medley of movie tunes, two numbers dedicated to Ella, and a closing “Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye.”Backed by his regular trio of pianist Mike Renzi, bassist John Leitham, and drummer Donny Osborne, Mel sings flawlessly throughout the entire hour, even unto his scatting on the Goodman Sextet versions of “Three Little Words,” “Slipped Disc,” “A Smooth One,” and “Rachel’s Dream” and Ella’s “Oh, Lady Be Good!.” As a matter of fact, Mel only goofed once, and that was when, probably in confusion with Budd Johnson, he referred to pianist Buddy Johnson, the bandleading composer of “Since I Fell For You,” as a tenor sax player.

Originally Published March 1, 1997