Right Now! cover

Released 60 years ago

Right Now!

Mel Tormé · 1966

59 min · 22 tracks · traditional pop

A vibrant collection of pop standards infused with Tormé's smooth vocals and jazz-inflected arrangements.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Strangers in the Night — This track highlights Tormé's ability to reinterpret a classic hit, infusing it with his signature style that balances both warmth and sophistication.
  • →
    Comin' Home Baby Start here — Tormé's lively rendition showcases his playful vocal delivery alongside an infectious rhythm, making it a stand-out moment on the album.
  • →
    If I Had a Hammer — The song's social commentary is complemented by Tormé's rich timbre, transforming it into a poignant yet uplifting listening experience.
  • →
    Better Use Your Head — This track captures Tormé's knack for storytelling through music, blending smooth melodies with clever lyrics that resonate with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases Tormé's smooth vocals over varied pop standards but lacks strong cohesion and distinctiveness.

What we noticed

  • Tormé's vocal delivery is consistently smooth, often employing jazz-inflected phrasing that enhances the pop standards.
  • Several tracks incorporate orchestral arrangements, adding depth to the overall sound without overshadowing the vocals.
  • The sequencing includes a notable cover of 'Strangers in the Night' placed centrally, which serves as a highlight amid other covers.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • steady mid-tempo flow throughout
  • vibrant sing-along moments
  • for casual gatherings
  • smooth vocals for relaxed listening
  • nostalgic melodies with charm

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer high-energy tracks
  • seeking experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album showcased Tormé's versatility and included notable covers, enhancing his recognition.
Themes
smooth jazz arrangements· playful vocal delivery
Career context
By 1966, Mel Tormé was a seasoned artist known for his contributions to traditional pop and jazz. 'Right Now!' followed his successful albums in the early 1960s, showcasing his versatility as he navigated between genres and reaffirmed his place in the music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Nat King Cole· Frank Sinatra· Tony Bennett

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • If I Had a Hammer

    The verses directly address social justice themes, urging action against inequality and oppression.

    The direct appeal to societal issues contrasts with the upbeat musical backdrop, creating a compelling tension that emphasizes the song's message.

Tracklist

  • 1 Comin' Home Baby Start here 3:24
  • 2 Homeward Bound 2:36
  • 3 My Little Red Book 2:42
  • 4 Walk on By 2:58
  • 5 If I Had a Hammer 3:07
  • 6 Strangers in the Night 2:44
  • 7 Better Use Your Head 2:54
  • 8 Time 3:43
  • 9 Secret Agent Man 2:37
  • 10 Pretty Flamingo 2:30
  • 11 Red Rubber Ball 2:38
  • 12 All That Jazz 2:13
  • 13 You Don't Have to Say You Love Me 2:35
  • 14 Dominique's Discotheque 3:00
  • 15 The Power of Love 2:32
  • 16 Lover's Roulette 2:36
  • 17 Ciao Baby 2:07
  • 18 Molly Marlene 2:16
  • 19 The King 2:01
  • 20 Lima Lady 2:27
  • 21 Wait Until Dark 2:43
  • 22 Only When I'm Lonely 2:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata