New Ray Anthony Show

Recorded live at the Sahara in Las Vegas, Ray Anthony's "New Show" is squarely in labelmate Louis Prima's territory. Unfortunately, Anthony is no Louis Prima. His female accompaniment, however, seems to have at least much of the appeal, if not exactly the singing ability, of Keely Smith. Hamming it up on such tunes as "Mack the Knife" and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," Anthony or Anthony and pals make convincing lounge acts. Less interesting are the instrumentals. Despite brief passes at crime themes, never once does the band hit anything as hip as on the Like Wild album. Fans of Ray Anthony or lounge acts may appreciate it, but most others will readily forget it. ~ Tony Wilds