There are very few CD releases that I greet with genuine interest as over the last 10 year all of Doris's studio-recorded work has been released in this format. This CD set however from Zone Records (UK) offers something new. It instead turns the spotlight on another important part of Doris's career which was her time on radio...

It was between 1952-3 that the actress and singer was given her own variety entertainment spot on American radio station CBS (aka The Doris Day Show). Each episode recorded in Hollywood would be full of comedic banter and general chit-chat between Doris and some of her movie and music co-stars (e.g. Kirk Douglas, Ronald Reagan, Howard Keel, Frankie Laine and Guy Mitchell). It would also offer the star a perfect vehicle to perform many of her single releases, tunes from her motion pictures and other songs that she adored but simply did not get to record in the studio.

The first of these shows to receive a digital makeover originate from April and May 1952. Zone Records include in their first volume four consecutive episodes from this period. Each show remains unedited and as it was originally broadcast to audiences some 50 years ago (i.e. with introductions and commercials intact).

As touched on before what is significant about this series and indeed the first volume is there are songs which Doris did not get to record for her record label Columbia. In fact due to contractual reasons Columbia did not allow Doris to cut studio recordings with many of her movie co-stars as they were signed to rival labels. It is therefore a great joy to hear in the first release collaborations with people such as the adorable Gordon MacRae. Other guests who appear in this set include Ray Bolger (April in Paris), songwriters Frank Loesser ("If I Were A Bell" & "Baby It's Cold Outside"), Marais & Miranda ("Ma Says Pa Says") and Donald O'Connor ("Singing In The Rain").

Although the recording techniques of the time do show some flaws this is compensated by the overall time and care that has gone into this project (i.e.  the sumptuous packaging that features rare photographs, detailed song information, liner notes and 2 picture discs).

It truly is a shame that some of the major labels out there can not learn from the standards set by this independent record label. My advice is don't miss out on this nostalgic trip back in time!