In The Wee Small Hours

This is such a brutally beautiful album, one of the all time under-the-radar gems. Sinatra harkens back to his crooner style with an album full of breakup songs, of love lost or love never had, and fills it with his sense of charm. This is still before the rat pack, before Vegas, before his image became Chairman of the Board, and in a way it suits him perfectly. It runs a little long at times; a little more pruning would serve it wel. But its novelty is also its greatest strength and is deserving to be on the list.

3.5 frank sinatras musik erinnert mich irgendwie voll an weihnachten, ich weiß aber nicht ob er es extra so geschrieben hat, dass es weihnachtlich ist. Oder ob es mich daran erinnert, weil seine musik bei uns immer im wohnzimmer an weihnachten läuft. es ist aber so oder so win ganz gutes album.

One of three albums I'd have expected Frank to have here, it's really good but best enjoyed in the evening with a stiff drink

A classic, no doubt. I grew up with a great deal of music from this era and even before. Being a child of parents who had children uncharacteristically late for their generation has its perks and detractions. While I was not really a fan of the Lawrence Welk Show, I do not begrudge my exposure to Bing Crosby, Benny Goodman, Rosemary Clooney, Gershwin, Doris Day, Nat King Cole and, yes, Frank Sinatra. Now, my parents were rather conservative, so even Sinatra was a bit on the racier side of things. I heard him more passively on my Father's radio stations in the car. Having given this a closer listen (three times through in fact), there is indeed a lot to like here. The latent misogyny (not at all uncommon in that era) and occasionally o'er sentimentality, not so much. But few could quibble with the virtuosity of ol' Frankie's voice and the, ahem, sincere frankness and feeling in the lyrics.

A very pleasant album but it does get a little redundant as it goes on. I feel like you could have cut a few songs and kept this at a crisp 40 minutes. Overall, I enjoyed my time with this album, Sinatra is a great singer. Mid 4.

Superdigg nedpå jazz. Nam

Courtney: good but uninteresting Craig: good but very samey

Incredibly smooth listen. Something I’d listen to while sitting under the dim light of a forest scented candle while smoking a fat cigar.

Aged like a fine wine, this album is smooth and charming listening. Frank Sinatra was one of the best of his time and this album is a great example of this.

80

smooth, early self-pity album of the famous lothario

Good

What a dude. Effortless.

It is Sinatra!

I love love love Frank His voice is just so beautiful His songs make me so nostalgic, they make me wish I was living in an old movie I love his incorporation of various instruments, the harp!!! Minus one point because all the songs start to blur together after a while

A great album to reply to emails too.

8/10 - it's Frank Sinatra, really nice to have in the background

7.8/10 very gorgeous but its making me fall asleep at work lol<3

This is the earliest album in the book and it's an example of Frank Sinatra having a major case of the Sads. Bouncing between beautiful actresses and trying to not cheat on them is quite the difficult endeavor for Frank, so now this is the result. Considering the temp never really picks up, this album may be a little too long. 16 songs and almost 50 minutes is a lot of Sad Sinatra. I find it interesting we start off this whole project with "a different side" of Frank Sinatra. This is a good album, even if you probably can't find any of his big hits on here. Still a little dreary for me and when I reviewed "Songs for Swinging Lovers" for this project, I said I like sad Frank more than swinging Frank and now I'm not sure that's true. How about a happy middle between sad Frank and swinging Frank? I can't deny both sides of Sinatra are compelling and should be hard, so as the first album in this book then this is a worthy addition.

Typical Sinatra, but it's still enjoyable. In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning might be the best.

I have this album and it is more than each individual track, a lovely late night night vibe whilst sipping a single malt.

The songs on this album might not be rated "Sinatra classics," but you have to appreciate Sinatra's impeccable phrasing and timing, as well as his tone. It's as if he is talking to you.

Aged like a fine wine, this album is smooth and charming listening. Frank Sinatra was one of the best of his time and this album is a great example of this.

Perfect album for a snowy afternoon walk. Minus 1 point bc of whitemaninthe50s though

Solid. No big hits, but how can you hate Sinatra?

Very nice

The songs can blend together but this is as smooth as it gets. Nothing else out there like Sinatra, he's instantly recognizable.

хотела поставить 3, потому что весь альбом достаточно одинаковый, но дядька настолько красиво поет, что рука не поднимается. грустно, но очень красиво

I liked this very much.

His voice is like butter. So much sorrow, so much love, so much longing. Good listen, but I don't think I would repeat.

Beautiful voice.

This did feel a little more maudlin and draggy than I was expecting but can't help it I still love it.

A CLASSIC! NO ONe like Frank!

There’s a reason they called Sinatra “the voice” back in the day, his vocals are truly unmatched. However, the song quality on this album is pretty mediocre other than that. The heartbreak theme would be interesting if there was a progression throughout the record of healing and moving on, but as it is, this just feels like the same sad song sung several different ways

All round decent - not usual listening but good background music for chilling

Das ist nicht meine Musik, aber es ist schön. Bin bei 3 1/2 und ich runde einfach mal auf.

Reminds me of pouring rain, sitting inside on a cozy chair with a bottle of scotch

It's Frankie, he did a good job.

3.5-4

He was there when the world needed him the most

orchestra

Smutne, nostalgiczne i takie wieczorne. Ktoś tu napisał, że każdy Sinatra brzmi jak święta i trudno się nie zgodzić. Ale ten brzmi jak samotne święta, bez choinki i z niedopałkami w kominku. 6.5/10 równane w górę.

In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning - Feels like a christmas song? Or maybe lots of christmas songs sound like Sinatra? When Your Lover Has Gone - like a lot, melancholy and cinematic. Feels like rain on pavement. Overall really enjoyed this album. Seems perfect for the holidays or a rainy day.

I can't see this type music being popular with younger generatios, but it sure is nastolgic

It's Sinatra

Within a song or two, I was suddenly sitting alone in the dark, cigarette burning down in one hand, a watered scotch in the other, and tears I couldn’t quite explain streaming down my face. That’s the Sinatra effect: you don’t just listen, you dissolve into it.

Un classique!

Classy. Timeless. Greatest male vocalist of all time. This music moves me.

Beautiful phrasing. Makes me feel small and sad, though, so I give it a four.

The description on Wikipedia says this might be one of the first “concept albums.” And I sort of wrinkled my nose reading that. But listening to it straight through I get it. The themes of the songs are all similar (loss, loneliness, self-reflection) as are the arrangements and instrumentation- this is very mellow, stripped-down Frank. He doesn’t have to project over a massive brass ensemble, giving the music space to breathe and letting his voice take center stage. In fact, the only brass I remember is one trumpet solo towards the end of the album. This is another record that’s perfect to put on just about any time. Not my favorite genre, but I can see what they were attempting here and they absolutely nailed it. FOUR STARS

Lovely loving tunes :))

An early prototype of the concept album. A real good listen too

3.7 // My italian-american is showing. Sad Sinatra

Very enjoyable

Classy, but a bit … sombre?

It's Frankie.

++: In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning, Mood Indigo, I Get Along Without You Very Well, Deep in a Dream, I See Your Face Before Me, Can't We Be Friends?, When Your Lover Has Gone, What Is This Thing Called Love?, Last Night When We Were Young, I'll Be Around, Ill Wind, Dancing on the Ceiling +: Glad to Be Unhappy, It Never Entered My Mind, I'll Never Be the Same, This Love of Mine 8,8/10

An album of angst and melodrama that Sinatra pulled off with unbelievable maturity.

This was a real nice one. Really liked the late night vibe and surprisingly constent for the era. Definitely the best Sinatra on the list so far.

This album is so good. Frank's voice is sooo calming and majestic. I could listen to this album many times. It starts to get repetitive, but it is still so good. Liked Songs: "In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning" , "Glad To Be Unhappy" , "Deep In A Dream" , "I See Your Face Before Me" , "Can't We Be Friends?" , "When Your Lover Has Gone" , "What Is This Thing Called Love" , "I'll Be Around" , "Ill Wind" , "Dancing On The Ceiling"

Damn....Frank is sad.....

Sad. Good for cooking

This album evokes such a clear and vivad image of wandering around the streets alone at night, just introspecting pondering endlessly about heartbreak. I understand the complaint of all the songs all being about the same thing and that there’s little variation. I think my main problem with the album is that it definitely could'ver been shorter. Cut it down by a few songs. Still, the consistency across the songs is less of a problem to me as it enhances its quality as a concept album. Heartbreak is such a engulfing and encapsulating feeling that when you’re experiencing it, it’s all you can think about. I think it works very well for this album in how it reflects that there’s so much longing in his thoughts that he can’t break out of focusing on anything else. A very picturesque album that paints feelings and fixations on sorrow, regret, and melancholy coupled with a walk through the lonely night.

the absolute master. impossible not to listen and fall into the stories and believe every word he sings

Pretty good.

Dope

Not to be confused with Houmous & Chutney’s classic Tenor for Men sponsored album ‘Wee In Small Hours’ Their first and only commercially branded album. 4.0 11/16 I’ll Be Around

lovely late night music the wind hits your face and a slight chill freezes the tear to your cheek but its 1950 some shit and thats okay

Beautiful voice and nice songs that all blur together. Captures a specific vibe but not something I will listen to very much. 3.5/4

There's a reason he stood the test of time. Had a perfect voice to sing Calypso.

First album in the book. It’s good - Sinatra had a wonderful voice and it’s just a good listen. I’m also a sucker for his Christmas songs

Classic. Smooth. Not a fan of him, but quite enjoyed.

My first Sinatra album and hopefully not my last! This is good but there are even better Sinatra albums out there. Songs For Swingin' Lovers and Francis Albert Sinatra and Antonio Carlos Jobim are just two that come to mind. Still it's hard to go too wrong with any of Sinatra's Capitol recordings.

Strong set of songs with beautiful sound.

This rages pretty hard for the 1950s, though Frank sounds smooth amidst all the emotional distress.

Reserved, calm, he begins to sound like a mature adult here.

Like it and it's a classic. Don't love it but like it a lot.

good!

very pleasant listen, could listen to it over and over again i love the sound of frank sinatra

Nice

It’s Frank, and he’s crooning. This is definitely not best experienced while working, and should have been part of a cocktail hour or a few songs saved for Scotch and smokes alone. Either way, I’m giving it the benefit of the doubt because it was good even out of proper context.

vier plus

did not like as much as the other sinatra album but still great

I love his music, he has such an incredible voice

El padre

What can you say about Frank apart from pure class

Goat

Sad Frank is more interesting than My Way Frank. He really sounds lonely. He's not, of course, he has dozens of pals and the company of many lovely women all the time, plus he's fabulously wealthy and connected to powerful political figures, but I'd like to see Bing try to pull off these songs!

So very sad but wow just gorgeous. His voice!

i liked this

A very easy listen while also being quite repetitive. Sinatra's vocals and the instrumentals are of the same quality here that you could expect elsewhere so I can't really say much for them other than that I really enjoyed them. I get it is the focus of the album but I wish it wasn't so bogged in melancholic relationship woes, it really makes a lot of these songs hard to differentiate from one another. I do get a laugh out of the album art though, Frank's giving a real edgy loner 'beat it toots' kinda vibe

woah dude i cant believe they made a whole genre of fallout music!! jokes that should get you shot aside, i've always had a soft spot for sinatra. i've rarely gone out of my way to listen to him, but it's always a treat. i think that generally speaking he already has a somber tone, and at times on this release it can get taxing on this album to listen to an album about being depressed by a depressing sounding man.

Bravo mister Sinatra, you have created a record so soothing I fell asleep on the bus and overshot my stop.

Mr Sinatra's voice on this is commanding so much so it sometimes detracts from the beautifully composed instrumentals. Relatable lyrics. Loved a bunch of the tracks on here. 8/10

nostalgic and beautiful.

Love the orchestral music

Perfect album for a slow rainy Saturday afternoon/early evening such as the one I listened on. An autumnal, nocturnal, warm embrace of an album, why on earth did we stop making music like this. Full of melodic yet melancholic longing and themes of unrequited love, but it’s never depressing, quite the opposite actually. It has a kind of defiant assuredness that everything will be okay regardless of recent lost loves - and Frank’s confidence that there will be another just around the corner shines through on certain tracks. I wasn’t familiar with many songs, if any, going into this album and now feel like I’ve got a couple of new favourites. 4/5 album. I need to own this. Standout tracks: Deep in a Dream I See Your Face Before Me

It's strange, I hear this album and I think of carefree days of childhood christmas during blue hour, or walking through nature hand in hand with someone you love. Frank's timeless voice and the gentle instrumentals put you at ease. The man certainly paints a picture with words, ifnyou could put music to Norman Rockwell paintings this would be it. I guess my only gripe is how many songs you can sing about the same subject. I guess I've never been in love like this!

An album as cozy as walking through a crisp fall day. Like watching the best kind of Looney Tunes short.

Great jazzy big band pop from the olden days

have i mentioned i am a 90 year old grandma? yea...

Frank at his best

Such a good album. Great to have on anytime, just not sure how often I would specifically seek it out.

Wow, this was better than I expected.

you really yanked it out on this one frank

7/10 about as Sinatra as it gets

I do love some Frank when I am chilling out doing artistic-type things.

Great voice, nice casual listening music. There's a reason the man is a legend.

Very good at creating an atmosphere and mood, and I did like the cover of "I Get Along Without You...", but I'd be hard pressed to name a track that serves as the moment I loved this album.

Could picture listening to this in a smoke filled Vegas lounge in the late 50s

Well, this is a lovely album. But it's also a bit too lovely, it's all going slow, all moody, all bedroom-like songs. You simply want to shout 'hey guys, eat some jalapeños and get going'. A bit more variation in speed, mood, whatever would have spiced things up considerably. I know this was on purpose but still: seventy years on we're in a different mood than Ol' blue eyes was when recording these songs. Also, I really doubt if this is the type of music that suits Sinatra's qualities with his impeccable timing best. Not, I suppose.

Timeless music, great album !

Very pleasant album, perfect for a cozy evening (or indeed as a lullaby).

Pretty good. Nice to throw on in the morning while you’re drinking your coffee. Not as effective at pumping you up to beat up the neighborhood bully who makes you eat white dog shit.

Favorite Song: In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning Least Favorite Song: Mood Indigo

Frank is a smooth as glass in this introspective album of love lost. Great for a rainy day or on the jukebox at your favorite watering hole. You can wistfully meander through these tunes contemplating lost love as the bartender plies you with whiskey.

A peaceful and timeless album to listen to despite its melancholic subject matter. I didn't recognize any of these pieces, which points to their quality, considering I was engaged throughout.

Classic

Respect. Always recognizable.

Too many of these tracks have better versions. Frank could never give “Mood Indigo” the same energy that Nina Simone gave it. Who could do “I Get Along Without You Very Well” better than Chet Baker? Ray Charles or Billie Holiday on “When Your Lover Has Gone” just sounds so much cleaner. I could go on, but you get my point. Obviously, Ol’ Blue Eyes has a wonderful voice and is an incredibly gifted singer. Also, on this project he’s working with one of the best bands of his time. The writing, though it has almost nothing to do with Frank, is awesome. My favorite is “Deep In a Dream”. The sound effect they have after the line, “My cigarette burns me, I wake with a start”. Iconic. BWAHHH!!! There a few real fun parts on this album and the title track is so fucking beautiful from start to finish. Credit to Frank for writing the last track on the album. The first of only seven he ever wrote. This album gets the job done and some people even consider it one of the first concept albums. Not sure about that, but I certainly enjoyed it. 4/5

Not the upbeat Sinatra stuff but I still love it. Can imagine listening to this on a nice summers evening drinking coke out of a glass bottle. Great vibe. Specific rating- 4.4 Fav song - Mood indigo Least fav - I’ll be around

It was great! Based on the song titles, I imagine I may have ended up sobbing if I listened to the lyrics, but still very good either way

Don't think I've ever sat down and listened to a full Frank Sinatra album before, obviously he's pretty amazing at this singing thing even when the songs get a tad too mopey for me. Little shout out to It Never Entered My Mind because not enough people sing about solitaire. Could have been right up there as an album if I still smoked. Favourite: Deep In A Dream Least: When Your Lover Has Gone (but don't hold me to this)

Albumin Bio lupaa melankolista tulkintaa yksinäisyydestä, rakkaudesta ja surusta. Ja sitä myös kuuntelija saa. Vaikkakin viimeset raidat tarjoilevat hieman iloisempaa jazz musisointia. Hieno levy mutta en kyllä useamman kerran jaksaisi kuunnella.

Kid rock. Nuff said.

50's emo

king! hüt sind mer 47 minute allerdings chli zu lang gsi (immerno dütschrap spuck der eis id frässe vibes am regiere), aber es gid durchus diversi szenarie wo ich mir das album 3 mal nachenand chönt ineböllere will aber all mini lieblings sinatra tracks (oder wie ich sie ab jetzt nänne: sinatracks) nöd uf dem album sind chani nöd 5 stärn gäh und muess en wee small abrundig vornäh hoffentli bsuecht eus de franky boy demnächst wieder!

4/5

I clearly enjoy anything with Sinatra singing. So much emotion and big band sound behind each song. Easy to sweep you away.

Overall: 7/10 This album is all about the mood, and the album cover is a perfect representation of the kind of moody, melancholic sound that dominates. While there's lots of romance, Frank sounds sad as hell all throughout. It's impressive to me how well the music paints a picture of a lonely man in a bar, drinking a scotch and rethinking life choices at 3am. The problem is that every song has a similar feeling and they all sort of blend together. Some variety would have been nice, but I can't imagine any other type of song fitting with these ones so I'll give it a pass. Good work there, Franky boy. Fav Song: In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning Least Fav Song: Deep in a Dream

This album is sad as shit. I love it

Melancholy

My absolutely favorite album of his, after ONLY THE LONELY

A melancholic yet beautiful album, which impact as an idea of the art form has to be admired. Most of all the motive in "What is this thing called love" is one of a devistating mystique you rarely get today.

Frank Sinatra has a beautiful, soothing voice. The album is mostly lovelorn, string-accompanied ballads. I wasn’t familiar with the songs but Sinatra is an absolute pleasure to listen to on them. I love this painted album cover too.

Not my favourite Sinatra, but still very good. I quite like sad Sinatra, and this record is predominantly slower / sadder / more retrospective. Will be back

Album of sad crooners from Frank. As with previous Sinatra albums I really like the sound and general atmosphere of this era of music but I preferred the last one, nice to have some variety that was lacking here. I understand that they were going for a sad slow album but it's a bit one note. All the songs in isolation were great but overall a 4.

Classic Frank. Have to love this album

Frank Sinatra crafted the perfect lonely late night album. Lyrically, this is a concept album about loneliness, sadness, & "feelin' blue". At it's best, In The We Small Hours, is incredibly relatable and, on its face, a very human record. The gentle string compositions and Sinatra's voice are incredible and play to great emotional effect; "I Get Along Without You Very Well" and "When Your Lover Has Gone" had me tearing up. Such charming and moving album. I was not expecting to like it as much as I do! Absolutely essential!

Classic Sinatra Album. Has some of his great songs, and nice lyrics. Decent but not personally my style.

I don't think this man has one bad album.

A great concept album.

I like it, and it’s an important album. I’m sorry I’m too lazy to write something better

Love some rat pack

Soothing to have in the background—at times I felt like I was supporting cast in a 50s movie, pondering some late-night challenge in a smoky back room somewhere.

Very enjoyable, but found I got through a lot of the songs in the background, without being captivated by any.

very slow music for dark mood days,but I like it

too slow for me in the morning

4.5/5. I'm gonna fucking kill you driving crooner!

moody love songs

I kind of loved this. I didn't ever expect to enjoy listening to Frank Sinatra but this had an old-timey charm and a depth of feeling. Like an old musical or something, which kind of makes sense as Wikipedia describes it as "the first concept album!"

How many recordings has this artist made? Phrasing is awesome

It's not for me, too sad and laid back, but this is an important album as a concept album and vocal pop album. Vocal performance is fantastic.

Beautiful. Soothing. Instantly recognisable voice and the instruments are great. Highlights: In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning Deep In A Dream I See Your Face Before Me

Pretty good. I am not a big fan but understand his impact

its frank sinatra i mean

This album broke my heart a little but healed my soul a little too. Frank Sinatra eats and leaves no crumbs on this one. Maybe not for everyday but I created a new playlist to accomodate this sort of sound for occasional listening for when the modern world gets me down 🥲

Great old tunes

4.5

Lo escuché en el taco de navidad... Wonderful

This album does a very fine job of filling a niche mood. Frank’s voice is soothing like a massage. I imagine being at an upscale club where everyone is dressed to the 9s. It could be a supper club or maybe people are playing baccarat. I don’t know, but cigarettes are being smoked with a vintage holders and whiskey from the finest crystal.

Easy listening, can see why they lasted

Repantigado, noche de luna, Frank es LA VOZ que nunca te cansa. Buena voz, y swing.

It’s interesting that this album popped up today - Tom Waits has said that this is one of his favourite albums, and the themes of loneliness and introspection on this are certainly familiar ones. The cover sets the noir mood and song titles like “Glad to be Unhappy” and “I Get Along Without You Very Well” you know that you are in for some soul searching. Nobody does this better than Frank and this is much better than the cheery Songs for Swingin’ Lovers.

Ah, The Sultan of Swoon! Great mellow crooning. There are some bangers for grandma on here. I definitely have days where I like to vibe this music. He is one of the greats. I like What Is This Thing Called Love, but I prefer Billie Holliday's version. I'll give this a 4.

Late night rainy walk was the perfect fit for this

Felt more like one continuous song rather than an album. A consistent nostalgic/regretful/romantic feeling throughout that pairs very well with Sinatra’s voice.

Music i love listening during the winter! As one of the first "Concept" Album we gotta credit that and pushing the now beloved 12" Vinyls too makes this work much more important for the future. Yeah 50minutes about heartbreak is long if you just sit down and listen to the music. You dont gain much more but for atmosphere while havin dinner, drinks, a walk in the snow etc. its powerful!

Love me some sinatra, brings me back to when I was a teenager.

It's very good and Frank sounds incredible as always, but maybe a little ballad heavy for my taste. Not quite my thing, but I appreciate it. 4 stars.

Kind of biting after a while. But I was listening in the morning. This record is meant to be listened to at night after you're supposed to be asleep.

Thoroughly enjoyed this album. Brought me back to my grandma’s house as a kid. Very slow and melancholy, but beautiful nonetheless. His voice does it for me every time.

proto jschlatt

Even Frank’s worst is still great. I like this one, but it’s a bit sleepy for my taste.

Finally an album that actually deserves to be listened to before you die. That being said while Sinatra can do no wrong, this album was so….melancholy, that I came out of it mildly depressed. For that reason, I can’t give it a 5. 4/5

Sad stories told by the Chairman of the Board. Got a little old by the end of it.

Jag har lore om det här albumet! Jättebra skiva!

I really liked the richness of the sound of this Never really listened to Sinatra outside the big songs but this is gorgeous

Even when he's sad it's mostly bangers

I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. However, it really felt like music to have on while doing something else rather than music to sit down and actively listen to. I'll keep listening to it, as a change from my usual Eno and Aphex Twin albums, when I want some background music that doesn't distract me from what I want to concentrate on.

undeniably iconic, but does blend together at times highlights: in the wee small hours of the morning, mood indigo, ill wind (apr 25 2026)

Another album that’s very evocative of another time that was nice for a morning but probably never again

It may be due to timing, but I found this album rather melancholy and sad. His voice is so comforting it hides just how longing his lyrics can be sometimes. Sinatra is def unique and wonderful, with nostalgia baked right in.

This was a great pick to show up on a Sunday morning. Sinatra’s crooning always fits two scenarios for me. I am either relaxing in the morning (like today) with coffee while cuddling up to the dog, or late at night with my feet up on the ottoman and a drink in hand, also cuddling the dog.

Classy

I wanted to love this more than I did. It’s still fantasy, Ol’ Blue Eyes was one of the greatest singers ever, even in the pre auto-tune era he was a standout. I also appreciate the concept album aspect of it. But it did eventually start to wear on me. Just one song that was a little more uptempo would’ve been a nice change of pace. But the music is so solid throughout that’s it’s hard to ding it at all. I really want to give it 5/5, but I just didn’t enjoy it enough. Sorry Frank, maybe if you have another album on this list.

I mean...he is the GOAT crooner. Although I never thought of him as much as an album artist and more of just a classic singer. He did surround himself with great songwriters and producers. Very gentle playing and the album cover fits the mood perfectly. It's not as bombastic as his later and more famous hits but I think this is a good easy listen.

He sad

3.8 - I did like this and felt like I was in the right space for it. But I found that after the first 4 songs, they just blended into background music for me. He's got a great voice, but it's more style over substance

Would you look at that? It's the oldest album on the list! You know, if I had decided to listen to these albums going in release order while still starting the day I did, I would've listened to this all the way back in October! Anyway, how does this album hold up? Well, I think it holds up decently well. I really liked this album! I think it goes without saying that Frank Sinatra was an incredible singer. His voice is very smooth and pleasant to listen to. The sound of his music is quite cozy. I like it. It's soft but engaging. The writing, and to an extent the sound, is somewhat repetitive. But I don't think it's that big of a deal when it's as good as it is. These songs are all about heartbreak. In a way, this is one of the first concept albums ever released. The songs are all written by different people, but they work well together in this package. For being released in 1955, this is a surprisingly heartfelt and mature album. The theme is handled in a respectable way. I saw a review on this site comparing how Sinatra wrote to how artists like the Everly Brothers by highlighting the absence of bitterness in Sinatra's writing while the Everlys wrote like incels (their words, not mine). As someone who proudly gave A Date with the Everly Brothers a 1/5, I have to agree. The maturity in how the topics of heartbreak and failed romance are handled makes this album a breath of fresh air in comparison to other music of the time. While this album isn't perfect, it manages to be a very important release in music history that's aged pretty well while also having that 50s charm. 4/5.

4/5. A sad and moody album, one of the first concept albums. It doesn't have songs that overstay their welcome and are not cringe or uncomfortable. These feel more like internal thoughts that one might have after a breakup. His voice is calming and the instrumentation is simple and powerful, following his voice like jazz. There is such a sadness here but one that is so important to history of music. The only unfortunate part is that the first side is much better than the second side so it goes down a point. Best Song: In The Wee Small Hours Of The Morning, Deep In A Dream, Glad To Be Unhappy

I was pleasantly surprised by this! I like Frank Sinatra, but I don't think I've ever sat down and just listened to a full album by him (beyond like maybe a "Greatest Hits" my mom has). This was surprisingly cohesive, and each of the songs flowed really nicely into the next to create the full album experience. I would absolutely listen to this one again.

Album 501 of 1001 Frank Sinatra - In The Wee Small Hours Rating : 4 / 5 The first album on the list of 1001. I like a lot of Frank's stuff and his "I Remember Tommy" album is near the top of my all time favorite. While I like this one, it just doesn't rank up there with others. Very low key and melancholy, as I kind of prefer the upbeat Frank. Still, this is a very good album. A nice example of what was popular before Elvis & the Beatles took over.

Che voce di velluto

I’d be depressed too if Ava Gardner broke up with me. Truly a great album that still holds up after all this time. It has some flawless peaks and is pretty consistent throughout, but the B-side does have a couple snags. Maybe they’re just the weaker tracks on a long track list, maybe the style just gets exhausting after that runtime, maybe that style *is* a bit outdated, but there’s just one too many songs on here that are only “okay,” and they keep this from being a full-on masterpiece. Despite that, it’s still a towering achievement. There might be a few albums that came before In The Wee Small Hours that deserve to be on the list, but if you’re going to start off with a bang, this is probably the right place to start. Will 100% stick with me, especially on a late winter night with a glass of scotch on the rocks.

You've heard it said, "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts." Well in this case the whole is *less* than the sum of its parts. Each song is a small glittering jewel, finely cut, with Frank at the height of his power. He makes each note and phrase expressive and rich with emotion. He doesn't miss anything. Each song is excellently written. The band puts just the proper bit of polish on it all. All of it is a finely tailored tuxedo, worn to the the best restaurant, with exquisite food. But the table is set for one, and the only courses they serve is the aperitif. By the end you are drunk, saf and hungry for something else. The single emotional note of the album is, I'm sure, intentional. Reflecting a certain melancholy for those who went through the war, perhaps, or anyone who has loved and lost. But by the end I just wanted the couple to finally get back together. That's how these show tunes are supposed to work, aren't they?

местами прям неприятный вокал, но артистизм и художественный замысел мастерские

yeah it's good but this challenge is starting to bore me

I'm on board with this. First concept album? yeah it definitely belongs on here. not exactly what I would listen to, but it's better than I thought it would be. Gets a little long, but it's good background music when you are feeling sad.

In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning When Your Lover Has Gone

Great voice

Delightful session. The title track is one of my favorites.

I was very lukewarm on the last Sinatra we had to listen to, but this one is great! I guess he was depressed and it led to some brilliant work.

In the Wee Small Hours is the ninth studio album by Frank Sinatra, originally released in 1955. Imagine getting broken up with in 1955 and Frank Sinatra drops this. This is some certified sad boi shit right here. A full album of straight-up heartbreakers. It's important to note that up until this point, 10" records were still the main seller. Sinatra dropped this on a double 10" alongside a 12", which was unheard of in pop music at the time. This pretty much propelled the 12" format as a norm in the pop music scene. I just thought that was pretty cool. As for the content, it's pretty much what you'd expect from a Frank Sinatra album. Smooth vocals and lush arrangements. Only this one has a bit of a dark undertone compared to some of his other works. It's just so damn depressing. Do not listen to this if you're going through some shit. Or do, it may help.

Is it a requirement for white guys to adore Frank Sinatra's voice? Perhaps, unfortunately, because I really adore this. It is a bit long for the repetition found in the lyrics and tone, but God, as a pioneer of the concept album, and LPs that aren't just a collection of singles in general, this album truly captures the feeling of theatrical heartbreak. Those strings are destructively sorrowful, and that harp that chimes in is dreamy and wistful in the perfect manner. All of this on top of Sinatra's powerful, booming voice that may not work when trying to do quiet tracks like I Get Along Without You Very Well, but nearly every song benefits from his contributions, and if he did truly help write some of these songs then man is the sorrow pouring out of this man's voice 100% believable and heartbreaking. I think it could just benefit from some song cuts, and I can completely see why one would find this too hammy to be trustworthy and required listening, but I think this is a great pick when it comes to important albums, and seeing that I am a white guy, I truly was smitten with this record nearly for the whole run.

So soothing. Want a big Italian dinner and a gallon of wine without the headache.

Everything about this album is technically perfect. The singing, the music, the lyrics... but my god is it a *sad* listen. Nearly a full hour of heartbreak. I don't think I've ever said "this guy needs a wife" about anyone more.

Beautiful album. I didn't recognize any of the songs from this one but I have always enjoyed the Frank Sinatra songs I've heard. His voice really is so smooth and a joy to listen to. These songs were no exception. Even though I am not sure how many individual songs I can pick out as favorites I just really enjoyed listening overall.

For my own tastes, it's a two-star album. It wins back one star for being damn near flawless. It wins back another star for being undeniably influential.

A true legend. However, after so long, all the songs tend to blend together.

I love Sinatra and the songs are good but this is just too much melancholy gloom for one listen so it gets to be a drag after a while. 3 + Extra star for Nelson Riddle arrangements

Definite classic, and important in musical history as an early concept album, driving forward the idea of the album as a cohesive, singular work.

One of the first concept albums, you say? Nice! (That prompted me to look up concept albums more broadly, and the generally accepted first one was Woody Guthrie's "Dust Bowl Ballads" - which would surely deserve a place on the list if Dimery wasn't such a hack!) Anyway, I quite dig a whole album of Frank in sad boi mode. People complaining that it's samey have attention span problems and a lack of appreciation for consistency of tone! Fave tracks - "Deep in a Dream" and "Ill Wind" caught my ear, but really it's about the atmosphere of the whole album...

Classic songs

I have a soft spot for melancholy Christmas music.

While no song stands out as an all time ballad, all are gorgeous and masterfully played.

Forse (spero di no) unpopular opinion, ma io ho amato alla follia questo album. Cioè è così chill, così delicato e così potente allo stesso tempo. Forse lo apprezzo di più perché ultimamente provo un po’ di rock fatigue? Forse!

che voce di velluto

Altijd nice, wel erg chill dit keer

Frank was real sad with this one.

Scoobie scoobie do…cuckoo doobie…. Chairman of the bored…the cat's a legend.

Somber but enjoyable. Such a smooth beautiful voice

No one compares to Frank. When you need some buttery smooth vibes for a casual party or chill Sunday afternoon, Franks slaps consistently. Having said that, while my mother is a big Frank fan, I never really have been. I enjoy his music but dont seek it out. Was thrilled that this popped up during this journey and enjoyed the album.

Niceee

4.4 - Though a full album of these melancholic reflections on love gets tiresome, the technical sound production on this record is as perfect as I’ve ever heard. The instrumental arrangements sound luscious. And Sinatra…well, he’s Frank Fucking Sinatra.

5am grindesque... tässä pidetään tunnelma kasassa. zoomer tiktok musiikia. vaikka kuulostaa hyvin samalta, samat teemat ja lyriikat, jokaisessa biisissä pieniä asioita...intricacies... details.. ei tarvitse torpata alas sen takia... dreamlike...melancholy.. mitä teen tällä elämällä mitä VITTUA on ideana mikä idea - mahdollisia kysymyksiä albumin kuuntelemisen jälkeen... ei ole vääriä vastauksia... kaikki vastaa ainakin yhden asian... luokka... näin sitä johdetaan luokkaa... miettii nyt vittu vähän että miltei 70 saatanan vuotta tästäkin albumista.. futuristic af i see your face before me

Frank's singing wields a tapestry of emotions

This was great, very nostalgic sound that reminded me of my grandpa.

Recorded after losing Ava Gardner, “In the Wee Small Hours” is aching swing that is a joy to listen to.

I think the first half is just about a perfect 5-star album, but personally, the second half kinda loses me. None of the songs are bad, per se, but in my opinion, it just doesn’t maintain the strength of the first 7-8 songs. Still, a hell of an accomplishment for its time, and for a genre of music I’m not absolutely in love with, Frank sure does make me love it for at least half the album. 4/5

It was a decent album although I am not sure I recognized any of the songs. It was a pleasant listen. I will round up.

Whilst I like the crooning tones of Sinatra, this album I found quite tedious. Fine in a late night cocktail bar or chilled out club venue as the album title would suggest , but not to listen to at home through earphones with the TV on. It's obviously classic so worthy of 4 stars. It was my poor listening timing I feel.

Great voice. Don't think the remastered brings anything new

A bit dour, but that’s by design. The songs definitely bleed together, but it’s a vibe.

Great voice and super easy listening.

Wel gewoon lekker, maar erg veel van hetzelfde

Just under an hour of Sinatra's swanky crooning, with plenty of graceful piano and sweeping strings. While this isn't my favorite style of music, I think you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who actively hates it. Something about it all makes me think of snowy deserted city streets. And oddly enough there is some sense of nostalgia -- not my own per se, but a nostalgia for a simpler, more refined time. Not sure how to ultimately land here. I feel like on likeliness of replayability this is low for me, but I liked the album. For that I'm going with a soft 4.

Great album. Just makes me think of old times, music our grandparents probably loved and makes me thing of something like Christmas. Super easy listening and classy Sinatra feel. Would definitely listen again and throw this on at a dinner party when I pop open some nice Pinot Noir

One of the smoothest voices of all time. Easy to listen to, but made me a bit sleepy. Didn't like this quite as much as Swingin' Lovers, but still got the job done.

Starts off with 3 of NWA’s classics. Gangsta rap at its finest. Parental Discretion rules. You can suck a wingdingdingaling! Thank you for that Eazy. This album has a bunch of classics and the others end up being consistent enough to warrant a 4 from me. Classic gangsta rap with insanely good production. Ice Cube rules.

line em up joe

This collection of last call ballads is an achingly beautiful triptych through the depressing realization that, once you finish that last drink, you can only go to a dark and empty house, alone, because she left your maudlin ass. Those that know, know.

Sweetly sentimental. Slightly uniform, but all good song.

Understanding the history of this album, you realize it’s on the list not just as “Sinatra for Frank’s sake”. This truly melds. An album of cohesion before almost any others. Not my favorite version of the Man but definitely a solid underline of the concept of a concept album. 4/5

This album was amazing. Frank knocks it out of the park with the vocals. The songs albeit a little gloomy are still a great listen all the way through. I look forward to hearing more of his discography. 4.06

What a legend. Sinatra's voice is luscious, filled with emotion, and really draws you in. It also has a Christmassy vibe similar to Bing Crosby. The strings are fantastic - the best I've encountered on this list so far. The songs are not very distinct from one another, but still perfectly good as heartfelt love songs. I really enjoyed this album. It gives you a warm, fuzzy, almost nostalgic feel.

What a voice. Beautiful. The musicians backing him up deserve as much credit as he gets.

Great songs, great voice.

This was great music for sipping tea & working, and equally perfect for a post-work walk in the rain. Did not expect to enjoy the majority of this as much as I did.

Frank Sinatra's "In the Wee Small Hours," released in 1955, is a masterclass in melancholy and introspection. Sinatra's voice, often described as having a timeless and emotive quality, transports listeners to a bygone era of classic Hollywood charm. His vocal delivery, reminiscent of the golden age of cinema, brings a unique depth to the album. The title track, "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning," encapsulates the essence of the entire record, showcasing Sinatra's ability to convey heartache and longing. Each note seems to echo the sentiment of a classic Disney movie soundtrack, evoking a sense of nostalgia and emotion. The album, a collection of ballads and torch songs, unfolds like a cinematic journey through the quiet hours of the night. Sinatra's voice, smooth as velvet, navigates the emotional landscape of love and loss with unmatched elegance. Whether crooning about heartbreak in "I Get Along Without You Very Well" or embracing the hope of new love in "Can't We Be Friends?," Sinatra's vocal prowess elevates each track. "In The Wee Small Hours" stands as a testament to Sinatra's enduring influence and remains a timeless portrayal of the emotional nuances embedded in the human experience.

it made me feel like an heartbroken 20y/o in the 50s and, being an heartbroken 19y/o myself, i fell in love with this record as soon as i hit play

Intimate to the point of, "Alright, Frank." But the melodies are great, and the arrangements are top-tier. Lush and sometimes funny. It may have given some straight guys in 1955 not just a homosexual experience but an immersive view of what it's like to be in a relationship with a difficult, emotional man. It's not about being Frank. It's about Frank being two inches away from your ear telling you he's lonely. I didn't always want that feeling, listening to this. It's maybe too much for headphones. Should be played on a sound system in one of those crazy early 60's bachelor pads while sitting with a drink. The Apple spacial localization technology makes the intimacy even more unnerving. I put my phone in my right pocket while riding on the subway, and suddenly a guy was crooning directly into my right ear...

I feel arguing against a Frank Sinatra album would be really criminal of me. It does have some really good tracks on it, instant classics. Do I think it is the greatest album of this genre? Most definitely not. It's a relaxed listening session.

I don’t think I’ve ever listened to a full album by ol blue eyes before! His voice is amazing and it was a very pleasant, if repetitive, experience.

Enjoyable as any Frank album.

Taman za novu godinu

I enjoy Frank Sinatra's voice and the instrumentation. While the music is very pleasant, I think that It does sound a bit homogenous. This style is an important development in popular music and for that reason alone it deserves praise. However, this is recognizably an album with a story tell. The themes deal with loneliness and dejection and create a whole instead of a mere collection of songs.

4.5

Classic Standards from the master himself. Standout: In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning 4/5

his vocal delivery is phenomenal

That’s how you do sad & lonely man songs, not with whiny voices and mopey lyrics but with heart and soul. Pretty sure the first songs about an early morning wank though.

svak 4'er. Veldig behagelig stemme, liker musikken, men kan bli ensformig.

4.5

Not a huge Sinatra fan, I think he has a completely average voice that is wildly overrated (even when compared to other artists of that time). That being said, the album was pleasant to listen to, and I love the music from this time period.

Very pleasant and soothing. This is how you make a soulful and interesting album that is slow, methodical, and interesting.

Weihnachten-Feels sind angekommen. Dazu Homeoffice und Schnee draußen: herrlich:)

In the Wee Small Hours is the ninth album by American vocalist Frank Sinatra. This vocal jazz album deals with themes of depression/sadness, introspection, loneliness, failed relationships (reminiscent of his own), and night life - all displayed in the cover art. Because of this, this album has been considered one of the first concept albums. Commercially successful and critically acclaimed, it is regarded as one of Sinatra's best albums along with one of the best vocal jazz albums, and has been certified gold in the US. This album also marked the transition of Sinatra from his young, tough guy image into a mature, emotional man. In the Wee Small Hours is the musical embodiment of loneliness. It sets the mood perfectly for a late night alone with your thoughts especially for one dealing with heartbreak. Although emotional, the album is still great to listen to as Sinatra is extremely talented. I was hanging onto his every word as the song soothed me through my workday. This is an important album in music history and is recommended to everyone to give a listen.

Little bit somber, but can't deny the arrangements and that voice...mamma mia

I imagine this is one that would grow on me with more listens. I mean, it’s Frank so the voice is matchless but it all got a bit samey. Probably not best listened to on the bus home from work

Sounds like Christmas

It’s all very film noir. The romantic tough guy. The lyrics are strikingly prosaic and domestic. There are a few poetic descriptions of rain falling and whatnot, but mostly it’s easy chairs, empty beds and toothpaste around the mouth.

Smooth. Like being bummed in the gob with premium butter.

Great

The crooniest of crooners. I've been looking forward to reviewing this album; not only is it chronologically first on the list, but I've never really listened to any music from the Rat Pack or similar artists, but I know they're all incredibly talented. This album was really pleasant to listen to. Frank Sinatra's voice is just fantastic, and the orchestra's playing was great as well. Sinatra's crooning was perfect for these melancholy love songs, and while the this may not be the most lyrically diverse album, I still found each song enjoyable. This is definitely an album that I'll be revisiting.

Classic. 3.8

Classic Blue eyes, but the songs do run together

oh, sure, that old mob singer with that voice

C'mon it's Frank! Very melancholy though

It was nice listening to this on a cloudy Friday morning. So nice I completely stopped working. There's something about his earlier recordings that somehow makes them superior in my mind.

Classic & enjoyable

Very relaxing and smooth album; excellent performance from Sinatra.

There's only one song on here that I'd heard before, but between the overall vibe of the songs, the songwriting and structure itself and this album cover, I'm giving this a strong 4.

Never really been my thing. But it's influential. And ridiculously horny

This whole album feels like a beautiful and sad movie. I can picture it all very well

I think I like emo Sinatra more than club Sinatra. A great, melancholy, personal album that unfortunately doesn't musically stray far from its first few tracks, but absolutely strikes a chord.

This was entrancing. I didn't expect to like this and usually don't enjoy these sorts of sparse arrangements, but something about the combination of delicate jazz backing Sinatra's voice really worked for me.

pretty great, but on a casual listen it’s all style, i don’t feel the heart, perhaps there isn’t any?

Odd to listen to this at 2 in the afternoon. Great songs and a great feel.

Very nice

I can definitively testify that this is perfect music to listen to when you’re poorly. The music is soothing and gentle on the ear. Although here, it can be repetitive and is very much a second player to the lyrics – it’s also quite soporific, but sometimes you need that in music. It doesn’t always have to be challenging or uplifting. Different vibes for different moods. The lyrics are the star here. They are poems with a score. Frank’s tricksy phrasing is ever-present. But I don’t think it’s always necessary. For instance, “I get along without you very well” is a beautiful song but I don’t think Frank’s version is the best. Listen to the Lew Stone band version which is a little more simplistic, a traditional 1940s band version, but somehow it makes the lyrics even more bittersweet. I will say that I was so glad for this album today because anything more upbeat or raucous would have tipped me over the edge. This is perfect recovery music, so thank you for that, Frank. In my mind, this is 3.5, clever poetry but not so interesting melodically. Production values are great though.

I owned this album back when i had CDs and went through a massive Sinatra phase, but until today I had never listened to the whole thing. It is definitely a lot to go through. Frank's torch songs have never been my favorite. But I don't know, today it hit differently and I was swept away by the incredible arrangements and his fantastic singing. He really does make singing sound easy, but these are tough songs to sing well. I was also struck by how hard these must have been to play, with seldom any instruments providing a pulse. To think these were all recorded live is quite something. Anyway, this is a great album, though it will never be a 5 for me in terms of listening to the whole thing. Also, it could have been two songs shorter. (P.S. Mamas and Papas do a great cover of "Glad to Be Unhappy")

This man’s frank is too god damn horny. Having said that I really like the sound of the album. Pretty easy 4. Would like this on vinyl tbh

BL: have listened to this album before. Last time I listened I thought it was a solid 4/5, very good mood music. AL: nothing has changed since the last listen. Excellent mood music, nothing necessarily stands out as an amazing track besides the opener but as mood music it is the exact thing I could picture sipping whisky to outside at night romanticising my despair. FT: “in the wee small hours of the morning” 4/5

the only appropriate time to listen to this album is between the hours of 3-6am with either alcohol or cannabis (or both) in your system. preferably price on a desolate road near a park with lots of trees and a stream. anyway this album is very slow snd melancholic. which definitely isn’t a bad thing but honestly it overstays its welcome. i think ten songs would’ve been perfect….16 especially for this kind of vibe is just ridiculous. however it is incredible in every other way. the vibraphone (i think that’s what it is) the guitars, vocals, everything is lush and elegant. absolutely perfect for when you’re in a shitty mood and you can’t sleep, so you go for a stroll with a scotch and let frankie boy make sweet love to your ears.

The oldest album on the entire list, and one of the very first concept albums, centered on the thoughts that plague us late at night: our failures, our loneliness, our wistful hopes. Beautifully sung and arranged.

🎺🎹

Title of almost every song was the same as the first lines of the song :)

Quintessential Sinatra, very nice

Just a really pleasant jazz album

Gotta love Frank