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By Charleston Hepston
 
Wayne Newton – Mr. Las Vegas!
2005 Capitol Records
SQ Issue:  Winter 2005/6, Volume 16, Issue 1

The Band:  Not listed

“Regardless of how one might feel about Wayne Newton’s talent or somewhat unique voice, one thing is certain:  after seeing him perform live, no one feels short-changed.”   --- Liner notes. 

Okay, this CD caught me by surprise.  I was digging through the piles of CDs at the local Goodwill and pulled this one out.  The price was right, $3.99, and the song titles were all popular swing tunes, so I thought, okay, I’m buyin’ it.

You pop in the CD and are hit with Newton’s signature song, Danke Schoën.  [A brief sidebar:   An interesting factoid, Bobby Darin was so impressed with the young Newton that he signed him to a contract and helped him get a deal with Columbia Records.  Not only that but Darin selflessly gave this song to Newton to help kick start his career, which not only did but it became his signature song.] 

Immediately you have to adjust to the uniqueness of his voice.  It actually took me a little bit to do just that.  It is a voice that can grow on you, much like a fine scotch or bourbon.  To make the adjustment much easier is a dynamite band.  The band, not recognized in the liner notes, really gets some of these songs swingin’ like nobody’s business.

You are gonna recognize a bunch of songs.  The best of the crop include Strangers in the Night, They Can’t Take that Away from Me, Call Me Irresponsible, More, Hello Dolly, I’ve Got the World on a String,
L-0-V-E, Bye Bye Blackbird, Mack the Knife and others [Can you see the Bobby Darin influence?].  Like I said, it is packed with popular swing tunes.

The swingability ranges from fantastic (Mack the Knife) to not very well (These Boots are Made for Walking).  But the entertainment value is pretty high.  This is a fun CD that yes, you can dance to, but they might not be your favorite versions.  However, it I found it a great buy at $3.99.  I don’t know that I would spend over $10 for it, though.

One other comment, as much as Newton is known for his live shows, these tracks were all laid down in a studio with the exception of two songs.  You’re Nobody ‘til Somebody Loves You and Mack the Knife are two bonus tracks added that were recorded live in Hollywood back in 1964.   It gives you a fun glimpse into his live shows.  These two songs by the way, have some of the best energy on the CD.

Bottom Line:  To buy or not to buy….. BUY, Eventually!  Here’s how: