Dear Mr. Cole
John Pizzarelli · 1994
62 min · 18 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of classic jazz standards infused with Pizzarelli's smooth guitar and charismatic vocals.
Top tracks — play these first
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Style Is Coming Back in Style Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Sweet Georgia Brown — Pizzarelli's rendition of this classic showcases his virtuosic guitar skills and playful vocal phrasing, embodying the album's joyful spirit.
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It's Only a Paper Moon — This track highlights Pizzarelli's ability to infuse nostalgia into his performance, creating an enchanting atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
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Route 66 — The upbeat arrangement combined with Pizzarelli's charming delivery makes this version a standout celebration of Americana within the jazz genre.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Pizzarelli's blend of vocals and guitar creates a lively yet familiar jazz atmosphere, appealing to both traditionalists and modern listeners.
What we noticed
- Several tracks include extended solos, allowing for improvisation that showcases Pizzarelli's technical skill.
- The arrangements maintain a consistent swing feel, with rhythmic variations that keep the listener engaged throughout.
- Composition 25% of the score
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6/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with charm
- warm vocals for cozy evenings
- dynamic flow keeps engagement
- for intimate gatherings
- nostalgic tunes for reflection
Maybe skip if you
- prefer high-energy listening
- want instant gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album helped establish Pizzarelli's reputation in contemporary jazz.
- Career context
- When 'Dear Mr. Cole' was released in 1994, John Pizzarelli was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene following his earlier albums that showcased his distinctive guitar work and vocal style. This release came after his breakthrough album 'New Standards' and marked a continued exploration of jazz standards while paying tribute to Nat King Cole's legacy.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bucky Pizzarelli· Joe Pass· Pat Metheny
Tracklist
- 1 Style Is Coming Back in Style Start here 2:44
- 2 (What Can I Say) After I Say I'm Sorry? 2:25
- 3 Little Girl 2:54
- 4 You Must Be Blind 3:41
- 5 Sweet Georgia Brown 5:48
- 6 It's Only a Paper Moon 2:35
- 7 September Song 3:31
- 8 On the Sunny Side of the Street 2:56
- 9 Nature Boy 3:44
- 10 This Way Out 4:50
- 11 Too Marvelous for Words 2:06
- 12 Route 66 6:44
- 13 Sweet Lorraine 3:32
- 14 Straighten Up and Fly Right 5:09
- 15 Honeysuckle Rose 2:56
- 16 L-O-V-E 2:20
- 17 Unforgettable 1:59
- 18 Portrait of Jenny 2:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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