If I still owned a record player, this four record set would already be mine…..but rather, in the digital age, I set about reconstructing some of the playlist for your next cool pool or patio party.

I completely enjoyed listening to these sounds and while compiling this post, I started to feel like I just can’t wait  to surprise my guests with this hip retro vibe when I next invite them over for garden libations.

Aloutte by Paul Mauriat — This makes me feel like I have entered some sort of 50’s Disney LSD party (which I think is party perfect).

Mack the Knife by Bobby Darin — Making things just the right amount of dangerously sexy.

More after the break.

La Violetera sung by Sara Montiel — If you do a YouTube search for this song, you will find that Sara Montiel has sung it in about 500 different Spanish language movies (I only slightly exaggerate), a fact I find quite amusing. This was my favorite version; I love how much she seems to hate the guy in the balcony while singing so heavenly.  But for a party, I would need to find a cleaner version without the other actors occasionally talking over the top.

Arrivedero Roma by Nat King Cole – I much prefer Nat King Cole’s butter smooth voice to the combo of Mario Lanza and the Louisa Di Meo from the movie “Seven Hills of Rome”. Louisa is sweet, but a kid’s singing voice would, I think, ruin my party vibe.

Volare by Connie Francis — This version is just so ‘cute’.

Petite Fleur by Sidney Bechet — No words, straight up sexy saxophone vibe, vibe, vibe.

Sorrento by Anna German So cheery and summery!!  (when can I plan a return trip to Italy?)

So Flute by St. Germain Even though I don’t know many ‘flute’ songs, this one is hands down the best I have ever heard.

Moon River by Danny Williams – This might have to be that ‘ok, time to go home everyone’ end of the night que song….its a little slow, but I love it (much more than ‘White on White‘ which is suggested on the album).