The music of the bossa nova was first introduced to America in the 1959 film “Black Orpheus” with music composed by Brazilian guitarist Luis Bonfa. "A Day In The Life Of A Fool" was known only as an instrumental before Carl Sigman wrote the lyrics. Vic Damone successfully brings out the drama of the lyrics which are about a forlorn man trying hard to hang to his love yet knowing he must let go
In 1966, Vic Damone recorded one of his best albums for RCA Victor, “Stay With Me.” Joining him on this album was arranger Ernie Freeman, a familiar name to many as arranger for other artists like Vikki Carr and Andre Kostelanetz. The approach to the bossa nova as seen by Freeman is halfway between the pop music world and the Brazilian originals. Damone shows just in this first cut from this a
One can not believe that a beautiful song such as this came from a 1966 film called “The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming!” Yet that is where this Johnny Mandel song comes from. Damone’s styling is perfect for this kind of song. It’s softly subtle and gently phrased, perfect for a quiet evening.
This particular performance could be judged as politically incorrect today and maybe even a bit sexist. Yet there is no denying that Damone brings a passionate rendition that brings out the psychological aspects of seeing a mighty attractive woman in a bikini strolling along the beach.
Another fine one by the Damone/Freeman team as well as proving that this record had the unusual distinction of being fabulous from the first to the last. Frank Sinatra had said of Damone that he, Sinatra, wished that he had Damone’s pipes. Damone’s approach shows off his remarkably flexible voice and superb technique.