Dean Martin, the iconic crooner whose velvet voice charmed audiences worldwide, remains a symbol of suave sophistication and effortless charisma. His song “Volare – An Evening in Roma,” is a standout piece of music that encapsulates the charm of his repertoire and offers a romantic escape to the streets of Rome. This captivating track is part of the album This Time I’m Swingin’! released in 1960, a collection that blends jazz, swing, and easy listening in a way that showcases Martin’s versatility as an artist. In this review, we’ll delve into the artistry of this piece, the instrumental brilliance that defines it, and its enduring appeal.
Introduction to the Album: “This Time I’m Swingin’!”
“This Time I’m Swingin’!” marked an important milestone in Dean Martin’s career. Known primarily as a singer of romantic ballads and pop standards, this album presented Martin as a master of swing. Collaborating with the legendary Nelson Riddle and his orchestra, Martin stepped into a new realm of sophisticated arrangements and rich instrumental textures. The album was released during the height of the Rat Pack era, a time when Martin, alongside Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., dominated the entertainment world.
“Volare – An Evening in Roma” is one of the standout tracks on this album. While “Volare” was originally an Italian song by Domenico Modugno that gained international acclaim, Dean Martin’s rendition blends his signature laid-back style with Nelson Riddle’s lush arrangements. “An Evening in Roma,” another Italian classic, captures the magic of a romantic night in Rome. Pairing these two songs in a medley showcases Martin’s ability to transport listeners to a world of old-world charm and elegance.
The Instruments and Sounds of “Volare – An Evening in Roma”
The instrumentation of “Volare – An Evening in Roma” is a testament to Nelson Riddle’s genius as an arranger and Dean Martin’s skill as a performer. The track features a combination of traditional Italian folk-inspired sounds and classic jazz influences, making it a delightful blend of cultures and musical styles.
The Guitar: A Lyrical Foundation
One of the most prominent instruments in the song is the guitar. The acoustic guitar provides a soft yet rhythmic foundation, evoking the essence of a serenade. Its gentle strumming mimics the sounds of a street musician playing under the moonlight in Rome, perfectly complementing Martin’s vocal delivery. The guitar’s warm tones add an intimate feel to the piece of music, inviting the listener to imagine strolling along cobblestone streets with the faint sounds of strings filling the air.
The Piano: Adding Elegance and Sophistication
The piano plays a significant role in the track, subtly enhancing the melody with its rich and elegant chords. In the opening bars, the piano introduces a sense of sophistication, weaving seamlessly with the orchestral elements. The instrument is not overpowering but instead serves to elevate the song’s romantic and nostalgic ambiance. Its interplay with the guitar creates a harmonious blend that defines the song’s unique character.
Orchestral Strings: A Romantic Backdrop
No Dean Martin song would be complete without a lush orchestral arrangement, and “Volare – An Evening in Roma” is no exception. The strings add depth and drama, swelling during key moments to emphasize the song’s emotional peaks. The violins, in particular, lend an air of grandeur, echoing the timeless beauty of Italian love songs. The orchestral strings act as a bridge between the song’s jazz influences and its traditional Italian roots.
Brass Section: A Swinging Energy
Nelson Riddle’s brass arrangements bring a touch of swing to the track. The muted trumpets and smooth trombones add a layer of sophistication, while the occasional bursts of brass energy inject a playful vibe. These elements are subtle but effective, ensuring that the song maintains its easy-going charm without losing its dynamic edge.
Percussion: A Gentle Rhythmic Pulse
The percussion in “Volare – An Evening in Roma” is understated but essential. The use of light brushes on the drums creates a gentle rhythmic pulse that keeps the song moving without overwhelming the other instruments. This restrained approach allows the vocals and melody to take center stage while providing a steady backdrop.
Dean Martin’s Vocal Performance
Dean Martin’s voice is the heart and soul of “Volare – An Evening in Roma.” His effortless delivery, characterized by a smooth baritone and impeccable phrasing, makes the song a joy to listen to. Martin’s ability to convey emotion with subtle nuances is on full display here. Whether crooning the soaring notes of “Volare” or playfully narrating the charm of Rome in “An Evening in Roma,” he captures the essence of each piece with remarkable ease.
One of the defining aspects of Martin’s performance is his ability to make the listener feel as though he is singing directly to them. His voice exudes warmth and intimacy, drawing the listener into the world he creates with his music. This quality is particularly evident in “Volare – An Evening in Roma,” where his vocals serve as the perfect conduit for the song’s romantic and nostalgic themes.
Thematic Appeal: A Love Letter to Italy
The themes of “Volare – An Evening in Roma” are deeply rooted in Italian culture and romance. The song celebrates the beauty of Italy, from its picturesque landscapes to its enchanting cities. “Volare,” with its soaring melody and optimistic lyrics, conveys a sense of freedom and joy, while “An Evening in Roma” paints a vivid picture of a moonlit night filled with love and magic.
These themes resonate with listeners because they evoke a sense of nostalgia and wanderlust. The song invites the audience to escape the mundane and immerse themselves in the romance of Italy, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate new generations.
Similar Songs for a Perfect Listening Experience
For those who love “Volare – An Evening in Roma,” here are a few similar songs that capture the same spirit of romance and charm:
- “That’s Amore” by Dean Martin
Another Dean Martin classic, “That’s Amore” is a joyful celebration of love and Italian culture. Its catchy melody and playful lyrics make it a perfect companion to “Volare – An Evening in Roma.” - “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
This timeless standard, performed by Martin’s Rat Pack compatriot Frank Sinatra, shares the same romantic allure and sophisticated arrangement. - “O Sole Mio” by Luciano Pavarotti
For those who enjoy the operatic side of Italian music, Pavarotti’s rendition of this classic Italian song is a must-listen. - “Come Fly With Me” by Frank Sinatra
This upbeat track captures the spirit of adventure and romance, much like “Volare – An Evening in Roma.” - “Bésame Mucho” by Andrea Bocelli
Though in Spanish, this song shares the same lush instrumentation and romantic themes that make “Volare – An Evening in Roma” so enchanting.
Conclusion
“Volare – An Evening in Roma” is more than just a song; it is an experience. Dean Martin’s masterful performance, combined with Nelson Riddle’s exquisite arrangements, creates a piece of music that transcends time and space. From the gentle strumming of the guitar to the elegant chords of the piano and the sweeping orchestral strings, every element of the song contributes to its timeless charm. As part of the album This Time I’m Swingin’!, this track stands as a testament to Martin’s artistry and enduring appeal.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Dean Martin or discovering his music for the first time, “Volare – An Evening in Roma” is a song that will transport you to the heart of Italy and leave you longing for more. So pour yourself a glass of Chianti, dim the lights, and let Dean Martin serenade you with this unforgettable classic.
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Lyrics
Volare, oh oh oh ohE cantare, oh oh oh ohNo wonder my happy heart singsYour love has given me wingsPenso che un sogno cosi non ritorni mai piuMi dipingevo le mani e la faccia di bluPoi d’improvviso venivo dal vento rapitoE incominciavo a volare nel cielo infinito.Down each avenue or via, street or strataYou can see’em disappearing two by twoOn an evening in RomaDo they take’em for espressoYeah, I guess soOn each lover’s arm a girl I wish I knewOn an evening in RomaThough there’s grining and mandolining in sunny ItalyThe beginning has just begun when the sun goes downSo please meet me in the plaza near your casaI am only one and one is much too few.On an evening in RomaDon’t know what the country’s coming toBut in Rome do as the Romans doWill you on an evening in RomaOn an evening in RomaSott’er celo de RomaOn an evening in Roma.