Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days of Summer

AMG Review of Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days of Summer

William Ruhlmann
All Music Guide

The Top Ten success of Nat King Cole's spring 1963 single "Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days of Summer" sent him into the studio to record a complementary LP of songs that either dated back to the turn of the century or sounded like they did. Working with a big chorus and an orchestra that included such old-fashioned instruments as the banjo, arranger/conductor Ralph Carmichael accompanied Cole on period songs like "After the Ball Is Over" and "In the Good Old Summertime." In addition to its nostalgic appeal, of course, the music had much of the flavor of one of Mitch Miller's singalong records. It wasn't one of Cole's more inspired efforts, but he took to the concept with enthusiasm and produced a disc full of catchy, lighthearted performances in the same mood as the hit single.