Frank Sinatra Watertown LP

Released in 1970, Watertown is a lost masterpiece and turning point for Frank Sinatra: a concept album written by Bob Gaudio and Jake Holmes. It has gone through a re-evaluation in recent years and is now considered one of Sinatra's finest recordings. All tracks are newly mixed from the original session tapes. LP edition features original 10-track sequence, a package with all original lyrics, a printed sleeve with new liner notes, track-by-track breakdown from Mr. Gaudio, and a 12" X 24" poster.

Producer Charles Calello arranged musical backdrops that conveyed the despair of the lyrics. Weaving together prominent electric guitars, keyboards, drum kits, and light strings, Calello uses pop/rock instrumentation and production techniques, but that doesn't prevent Sinatra from warming to the material. In fact, he turns in a wonderful performance, drawing out every emotion from the lyrics, giving the album's character depth.

When it was released in 1970, Watertown tanked, but its stature has only grown since as collectors recognized the Jimmy Webb-like grandeur of the music and the depth of Sinatra's vocal work. All credit is due to Capitol and UMe for committing the resources to remixing and remastering this cult favorite and reissuing it in this lovely vinyl edition. Original copies of Watertown aren't that hard to find, but they won't sound as good as this.