While some might see this skimpy 12-track set as ludicrous, newcomers looking for a budget entrée to Mancini's work will be thrilled. Taking in his prime late-'50s and early-'60s TV and film work, the collection samples such stellar soundtracks as Peter Gunn, Breakfast at Tiffany's ("Moon River"), and Charade. From noirish crime jazz to supreme lounge-jazz statements, Mancini is heard in top form throughout -- none of those later pops orchestra treatments here. Yes, crucial sides like "The Pink Panther Theme" are missing, but that classic and many other gems will be waiting for listeners who inevitably will next pick up such essential and extensive roundups as RCA's The Days of Wine and Roses.
“Lujon” is a hypnotic spell binder. Once one hears it with strings and a slow rhythm, it stays with the mind for a long time. The melodic line is seductively steamy with a mellow trombone playing in the distance followed by a Johnny Hodges type alto sax joining in for good measure. An acoustic guitar adds to the romance of this classic piece. A good measure of this work’s durability is that
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One of truly funniest moments in this show’s history was the time Gunn had to babysit a seal named Timothy who had a locket containing secret information. The swinging gate of Timothy is vividly projected by piccolos and a propulsive rhythm on brushed drums.
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| Title | Lyrics | Buy |
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| 1 Peter Gunn |
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| 2 Timothy |
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| 3 Lujon |
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| 4 March of the Cue Balls |
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| 5 Fallout! |
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| 6 Mr. Lucky |
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| 7 Moon River |
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| 8 Experiment in Terror |
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| 9 Baby Elephant Walk |
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| 10 Days of Wine and Roses |
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| 11 Theme from "Hatari!" |
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| 12 Charade |
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Click to purchase…
© 2006-2009 Mog Inc. All Rights Reserved
 "The Best of Mancini")
