Review by Michael Macomber

Release Date: 9/14/2004
Format: CD (1 Disc) / DVD (1 Disc)
Label: Hyena
Download the MP3 album
Get the CD at: Deep Discount - Amazon

"Aces Back to Back" is not a Bobby Darin hits collection, but something much better. Producers Joel Dorn and Jimmy Scalia have put together a wonderful set of previously uncollected live recordings, alternate takes, and clips from Darin’s TV variety show. There is also footage of Darin working on a new song in the studio, playing with his son Dodd, slamming away on the drums, and talking about his fears, feelings, and goals. The demo version of "Dream Lover" alone would make this a must-have for any Darin fan. But this is only one of many gems on the CD part of the set: A gentle, unique and intimate rendition of "All the Way," a heartwarming and tender reading of "Moon River," a jaunty and kickin’ take on "Blue Skies," an absolutely electrifying performance of "Quarter to Nine" — "Aces Back to Back" is a bottomless treasure chest of Darin goodies.

Tracks:

CD:
1. This Could Be The Start Of Something Big.
2. Can't Take My Eyes Off You.
3. Song Sung Blue.
4. All I Have To Do Is Dream - (with Petula Clark).
5. A Quarter To Nine.
6. Alone Again Naturally.
7. Beyond The Sea.
8. I'll Be Your Baby Tonight.
9. If I Were A Carpenter.
10. Simple Song Of Freedom.
11. Up A Lazy River.
12. Jive.
13. Rainin'.
14. Long Time Movin'.
15. Dream Lover.
16. Blue Skies.
17. Moon River.
18. All The Way.
19. Mack The Knife.
20. The Curtain Falls

DVD:
1. This Could Be The Start Of Something Big.
2. Can't Take My Eyes Off You.
3. Song Sung Blue.
4. All I Have To Do Is Dream - (with Petula Clark).
5. A Quarter To Nine.
6. Alone Again Naturally.
7. Beyond The Sea.
8. Mack the Knife

Lost Documentary Footage:
1. Weeping Willow
2. One of Those Songs
3. You're Nobody 'Til Somebody Loves You