In The Wee Small Hours - Frank Sinatra

In the Wee Small Hours is the ninth album released by Frank Sinatra. Featuring arrangements by Nelson Riddle, it was released in April 1955—the same year that Elvis Presley experienced his first concert riot, Chuck Berry recorded his debut single, and Etta James released her debut album.

At the time, Sinatra was entering his 40s, and his fan base had begun to dwindle. The second season of The Frank Sinatra Show flopped, leading to its cancellation. Sinatra was entering a dark period in his life. While recording this album, his marriage to his first wife, Nancy Barbato, ended, and his tumultuous relationship and eventual marriage to Ava Gardner suffered, with both struggling with jealousy over extramarital affairs. Sinatra referred to this work as "The Ava Album" because its themes centered on loss and hope amidst a crumbling relationship.

Sinatra envisioned In the Wee Small Hours as a cohesive album rather than a collection of singles, which was the norm at the time. Drawing from the Great American Songbook, he felt the content deeply, which contributed to the emotionally powerful and poignant vocals on the record. He often recorded late at night, adding to the authenticity of the album’s title.

This album also marked the first time Sinatra felt comfortable rhythmically improvising, thanks to Riddle's arrangements, which brought a more mature and sophisticated tone to Sinatra’s voice. Riddle had a unique ability to bring out the best in Sinatra, as demonstrated by their collaboration on both Songs for Swingin’ Lovers! (1956) and In the Wee Small Hours, which are widely considered some of Sinatra’s finest work.

Although Sinatra took multiple takes in pursuit of perfection, some minor technical imperfections in his voice can be heard. However, many believe these contribute to the somber and haunting emotional quality of the album.

This album is often credited with helping to redefine masculinity, liberating men from being seen as weak for expressing emotions. If In the Wee Small Hours doesn't move you, you must be made of stone. 

     

The album starts off strong with "In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning", the only original track on the album. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man who can't sleep as he reflects on his unrequited love. The swelling strings, paired with Sinatra's melancholy yet smooth vocal performance, create a track that became an instant classic, perfectly encapsulating the longing for the person who holds your heart to also be held in your arms.

Next is a cover of Duke Ellington's jazz standard, "Mood Indigo". This song mirrors Sinatra's personal life at the time, expressing despair after being abandoned by a lover. This sentiment is captured through lyrics like, "When I get that mood indigo, I could lay me down and die." The track opens with brass instruments, setting an emotional tone that is carried throughout by strings, a charming, fairy tale-like harp, and a piano that contrasts with lighthearted, cheerful notes.

The third track, "Glad to Be Unhappy", is especially notable for Sinatra's innovative use of rhythm. This song highlights his newfound confidence in experimenting with vocal placement, with a simple accompaniment that allows his polished yet playful vocals to shine.

"I Get Along Without You Very Well" is a masterclass in delivering polished yet emotionally resonant music. You can feel Sinatra's sense of loss without the vocals becoming muddled or losing their phrasing—raw emotion without raw sound. The same can be said for "Deep in a Dream."

"Can't We Be Friends" is one of the standout tracks that makes this album as great as it is. It's expressive, timeless, and skillfully performed by Sinatra and his pianist, Bill Miller, along with the rest of the band. The simplicity of this track does nothing to detract from its impact.

Another highlight is "Ill Wind," one of the more unique tracks on the album, with many moving parts. It features interjecting woodwind instruments and sees Sinatra experimenting with rhythm more than on any other track. This underrated gem is often overlooked because it's not as upbeat as some of his other hits like "Fly Me to the Moon" or "That's Life."

For me, I do feel that the first half of the album is stronger than the second. However, this album comes to mind in my loneliest moments, wrapping me in the warm blanket of Sinatra's voice. His sorrowful demeanor and yearning for what he's lost lull me to sleep, reminding me that tomorrow is a new day and to hold onto hope that things will work out. 

This album is the perfect soundtrack for those days when you're seeking serenity amid the chaos. Though lugubrious, it is an easy, relaxing listen. Sinatra maintained a sense of optimism throughout, despite the personal pain he was enduring, which is what makes this one of his finest works. In the Wee Small Hours is a must-listen for anyone going through heartache or any jazz fan.

RATING: Easy 8