After over five decades of creating iconic music, Bob Dylan released his 36th album, “Shadows in the Night” comprised of tracks made famous by Frank Sinatra, creating yet another diverse album for Dylan.
Although this album doesn’t sound anything like his more widely known tracks we’ve all come to love, such as “Like a Rolling Stone” or “Blowing in the Wind,” it is still noteworthy. The original Frank Sinatra versions are melodic, whereas Dylan’s versions have more of a raw feel, as most of his music does.
Upon hearing the first track, “I’m a Fool To Want You,” I couldn’t help but recognize an unedited live feel. According to The Atlantic, the album “was recorded live, with all the musicians in the same room at the same time.”
With Dylan, now 73, his voice is more raspy than his youthful days of which he produced classic records such as “The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan,” but it gives the album a unique vintage feel. Each track feels as if it could lull you to sleep after a long day, or make a romantic setting for you to sway with a loved one out on a dance floor reminiscent of a 1960’s ball.
(Photo courtesy of Columbia)Every song on the record sounds similar to the one that precedes it, making the album not the most exciting of sorts. However, that didn’t seem to be Dylan’s goal. After producing numerous albums, he’s covered numerous genres, and this was yet another way for him to display a different aspect of his musical talent.
"Why Try to Change Me Now,” is less raw and Dylan adopts a more angelic voice reminiscent of Sinatra, making the track my personal favorite. Dylan does a brilliant job adding his only folk-like flair to each cover, with instruments such as a steel guitar present.
Although each track is decent, it seems to have received rave reviews because it is by none other than Bob Dylan. At this point in his career, he could write whatever he chooses, and his name would save the entire track. After producing songs that chronicle important issues such as war and civil rights, and dipping into different genres, it is apparent Dylan has the chops to take on whatever he feels, including Sinatra covers.
Dylan’s emotional side shines through each track, making the entire album worth a listen. It was quite enjoyable to see these classic tracks made new again with Dylan’s own personal flair.
After all these years he can still produce commendable music, making Dylan a true testament of an infamous artist. He has divulged into many different styles, with us enjoying the results of each one of his feats.
Have a favorite track on "Shadows in The Night"? Let the reporter know at dpharias@asu.edu or follow @dpharias on Twitter.
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