Album: Frank Sinatra - Only The Lonely (1958)
Track: “Only The Lonely”

Only The Lonely is easily Frank Sinatra’s saddest album, and probably my favorite. From the opening title-track, the mood is down-trodden and somber. Images of New York City on a rainy fall night, walking alone, head down are evoked when Sinatra’s whiskey soaked voice croons “Each place I go/Only the lonely know.” One of the striking things about this album are the simple lines that seem to be sung with the weight of the world behind them.

“What’s New” is about a chance meeting with one’s former love. “What’s new? How did that romance come through? We haven’t met since then. Gee, but it’s nice to see you again.” Then Sinatra soars - a juxtaposition of sorts: “What’s new? Probably I’m boring you.” His confident voice against his beaten heart and self-deprecation.

The album cover depicts Sinatra as the “sad clown,” no better exemplified than in the song “Angel Eyes.” Again, simple lyrics that somehow grasp the depth to which a broken heart can penetrate. “Hey drink up all you people. Order anything you see. Have fun you happy people. The drinks and the laughs are on me.”

This album was on constant rotation for me during a few periods in high school. I wouldn’t say it helped to get me over the two girls (they probably don’t read this, but I won’t say names anyways) as much as provide some level of heartbroken companionship when I was driving or in my room (I think I bought the CD off of eBay). And it has a distinct “fall” vibe to it, part of why I’m putting it up at this time.

It’s a sad affair, but Sinatra does a masterful job conveying what certain emotional events can feel like and the orchestration that accompanies is top-notch.

Tracklist:

01. Only the Lonely
02. Angel Eyes
03. What’s New?
04. It’s a Lonesome Old Town
05. Willow Weep for Me
06. Goodbye
07. Blues in the Night
08. Guess I’ll Hang My Tears Out to Dry
09. Ebb Tide
10. Spring is Here
11. Gone with the Wind
12. One for My Baby (and One More for the Road)
13. Sleep Warm
14. Where or When