Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days of Summer

 Original released on LP Capitol ST 1932

(US, July 1963)

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. (William Ruhlmann in AllMusic)

Capitol was moving Nat further and further away from his jazz roots, and this bothered his hard core fans. But to the general public, they loved everything he did. This is a case in point. It's just an album of happy sing-a-longs. The title song is not the one that became the big hit, but the beautiful tender ballad, "That Sunday, That Summer." Performed with with a full chorus, and orchestra by Ralph Carmichael, this song tells the story of a man's reflection of his favorite moment with his girlfriend. It's sentimentally sweet and Nat delivers perfectly. The great arrangement by Carmichael opens and closes with just the chorus wich lends a certain sweet fondness to the story told in the song. Capitol's recorded sound is splendid. Natural and open with Nat's voice up front and full. Good for just happy summer listening! (in RateYourMusic)