Frank Stallone with the Sammy Nestico Orchestra: In Love in Vain

Let's get the answer to the obvious question out of the way right at the outset. Frank Stallone is the brother of Sylvester Stallone. But this relationship has nothing to do with Stallone's vocal prowess. The man can sing a song. Settling on a play list of classic standards masterly orchestrated by Sammy Nestico, Stallone recalls those great crooners of the past - Sinatra, Haymes and Darin to name a few - - who had their way with tunes by Porter, Berlin, Rodgers and Hart and so on. Stallone even uses some of the Sinatra and Darin mannerisms, like the "hey" to close out an especially strongly delivered line. Former Basie arranger, Nestico, has put together a set of charts recalling those gems Nelson Riddle wrote for Sinatra such as "One for My Baby" and "Like Someone in Love". Recorded in Toronto, Nestico put together a large orchestra, complete with strings, to provide the backing for the vocalist. Unfortunately, none are identified in the liner notes which is rather unfair. The horn ensemble on such cuts as "Beyond the Sea" is quite outstanding.

If Stallone had been born many years ago, he would likely be among those great male singers who captivated audiences with their renditions of items from the Great American Popular Songbook. Regrettably, the market for straight ahead singing of good songs is not what it once was. It's a shame because this is a solid effort from a fine singer at a time when good male singers are hard to come by. Recommended. Visit Frank at www.frankstallone.com.