Around Midnight

Julie London was at the peak of both her popularity and her abilities in 1960, the year AROUND MIDNIGHT was released. Some listeners might find the string-laden arrangements and backing vocalists to be a bit dated, and there is indeed an unmistakable early-'60s lounge feel to the proceedings, but it all works perfectly in service of the album. This is thanks mostly to London's sultry delivery and masterfully understated phrasing, which glides like a caress. Her "cool" treatment of chestnuts like "Black Coffee" and "Misty" make AROUND MIDNIGHT a must for fans. Those interested in getting away from London compilations and investigating her studio efforts would also do well to start here.

• Format: Vinyl
• Released: 02/16/2018