Penthouse Serenade cover

Penthouse Serenade

Nat King Cole · 1952

51 min · 19 tracks · jazz

A lush collection of romantic ballads featuring smooth melodies and Nat King Cole's velvety vocals.

Why this album works

This album is significant as it marked one of Cole's early ventures into mainstream vocal music, showcasing his ability to blend jazz with pop sensibilities. It includes tracks like 'Unforgettable,' which would later become a staple in American music and earn him lasting acclaim.
Best for
smooth melodies for romantic evenings steady pacing for relaxed listening for intimate gatherings
Context
In 1952, Nat King Cole was transitioning from a successful jazz pianist to a prominent vocalist. 'Penthouse Serenade' arrived shortly after his breakthrough album, 'The Christmas Song,' solidifying his appeal in popular music and paving the way for a series of chart-topping hits throughout the decade.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Penthouse Serenade (When We're Alone) 3:08
  • 2 Somebody Loves Me Standout 3:05
  • 3 Laura 2:45
  • 4 Once in a Blue Moon (Based on Rubenstein's Melody in F) 2:57
  • 5 Polka Dots and Moonbeams Standout 3:05
  • 6 Down by the Old Mill Stream 2:21
  • 7 If I Should Lose You 3:13
  • 8 Rose Room 2:48
  • 9 I Surrender Dear 3:00
  • 10 It Could Happen to You 2:48
  • 11 Don't Blame Me 3:05
  • 12 Little Girl 1:51
  • 13 Surrender Dear (alternate take) 3:03
  • 14 Walkin' My Baby Back Home 2:13
  • 15 Too Marvelous for Words 1:56
  • 16 Too Young 2:35
  • 17 That's My Girl 1:47
  • 18 It's Only a Paper Moon 2:11
  • 19 Unforgettable Standout 3:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata