Vinyl Nostalgia: Uncovering the Retro Charm of Bill St. Clair's 'Let's Be Frank' LP Album

   

Vinyl enthusiasts and thrift hunters gather around as we dive into the world of budget record labels, where hidden gems await in the grooves of forgotten albums. Today, let's talk about a peculiar find that echoes the charm of the iconic Frank Sinatra - "Let's Be Frank" by the velvety-voiced Bill St. Clair.

One can sense the retro allure from the cover art alone as St. Clair sits perched on a stool, smiling, his pose casual yet calculated, reminiscent of Ol' Blue Eyes himself. This album, part of the Promenade Artists Series, suggests a nod to an era where the likes of Sinatra reigned supreme.

On the back, a tale unfolds of hotel room discoveries and a voice that carries both warmth and potential. With tracks like "Witchcraft" and "The Lady is a Tramp," the influence is undeniable. Still, deep cuts like "None But the Lonely Heart" resonate with the soul of a budget collector - a tracklist that promises familiarity with a twist.

Bill St. Clair may not have had the household name recognition of Sinatra, but this is precisely the allure for the budget label lover. It's the thrill of finding someone who could've been a contender, a voice that deserved the spotlight, all nestled in a budget-friendly package.

For those who revel in the crackle and pop of vinyl, "Let's Be Frank" is a statement of musical identity. It's a reminder of the days when record labels took chances on voices that brought comfort to lonely hotel rooms and excitement to the airwaves.

So, to the collectors hunting for the next great spin, remember: sometimes, the true finds aren't just about the music; they're about the stories etched into the vinyl. And Bill St. Clair's album is a story worth discovering. Keep digging, keep playing, and let's be frank - the hunt is half the fun!

Promenade Records was a budget label under the SPC umbrella during the 1950s and 1960s. This album features songs that include tunes made famous by Frank Sinatra, with some public domain favorites to keep production costs down on what was likely an expensive album to produce.

Track List:
Side A:
A1- Witchcraft
A2- Bewitched
A3- Marie
A4- On The Road To Mandalay
A5- Nancy
A6- The Lady Is A Tramp

Side B:

B1- None But The Lonely Heart
B2- Little White Lies
B3- Beautiful Dreamer
B4- Black is the Color Of My True Love's Hair
B5- I'll Never Smile Again