To mark the 100th anniversary of Johnny Mercer's birth in 1909, Turner Classic Movies produced a documentary presenting the life and work of Mercer, one of the finest 20th Century lyricist, through the story-telling eyes of Clint Eastwood. This album features performances from the film plus Mercer favourites performed by such varied artists like Queen Latifah, Jamie Cullum, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, Bono, Barbra Streisand, Ray Charles, Chet Baker, Dr. John and Clint Eastwood’s 13 year old daughter Morgan...

Johnny Mercer is best known for his timeless hits 'That Old Black Magic', 'One For My Baby (And One More For The Road)', 'Moon River', 'Days Of Wine and Roses' and 'The Summer Wind'. Throughout his career, Mercer composed over 1,700 songs, wrote seven Broadway shows, and won four Oscars for songs in films.

I have to admit to not being a fan of modern artists covering classic tracks - especially when they don't actually try and make it their own. Sadly there are a few too many artists included here whose voices aren't a patch on the original recordings.

Audra McDonald murders 'I Had Myself a True Love'. Equally Bono sounds out of place singing 'I Wanna be Around You' with Tony Bennett. And while every father may be proud that their child can sing, did Clint Eastwood really need to embarrass his 13-year-old daughter, Morgan, by including her singing 'This Time the Dream's On Me'? While she's not a truly awful singer, she's also not a particularly good one either.

While Barbra Streisand pulls off an impressive rendition of 'My Shining Hour', the rather insincere speech to the audience during this live performance is rather stomach churning.

Also featured is the previously unreleased Bing Crosby recording of 'Something’s Gotta Give' - which is an interesting addition.

For those that are fans of Mercer's music then this album is an interesting look at some classic as well as new recordings of some of the highlights of his career. To be honest though, I'd probably search out original recordings on a greatest hits album rather than purchase this hit-and-miss collection of tracks.

5

Darren Rea