Capitol Collectors Series: Dean Martin

This collection spans the years from 1948 to 1960, compiling 20 of Dean Martin's best cuts from his tenure at Capitol Records. Dino did his best work during this period, so it should come as no surprise to find that this compilation is as solid as a week-old meatball. From "Powder Your Face With Sunshine" and "That's Amore" to "On an Evening in Roma" and "Ain't That a Kick in the Head," it's all primo Dino. His voice is sweet and supple, and his sense of fun is infectious (unlike on many of his Reprise recordings, he really seems to be enjoying himself here). If you're only going to buy one Dean Martin record, this is definitely the one you want. --Dan Epstein