In many ways,
Sinatra at the Sands is the definitive portrait of
Frank Sinatra in the '60s. Recorded in April of 1966,
At the Sands is the first commercially released live
Frank Sinatra album, recorded at a relaxed Las Vegas club show. For these dates at the Sands,
Sinatra worked with
Count Basie and his orchestra, which was conducted by
Quincy Jones. Like any of his concerts, the material was fairly predictable, with his standard show numbers punctuated by some nice surprises. Throughout the show,
Sinatra is in fine voice, turning in a particularly affecting version of "Angel Eyes." He is also in fine humor, constantly joking with the audience and the band, as well as delivering an entertaining, if rambling, monologue halfway through the album. Some of the humor has dated poorly, appearing insensitive, but that sentiment cannot be applied to the music.
Basie and the orchestra are swinging and dynamic, inspiring a textured, dramatic, and thoroughly enjoyable performance from
Sinatra.