Dean Martin: This Time I'm Swinging

Martin & Riddle on MFSL: "This Time I'm Swinging" Falls Short of Audiophile Promise

Dean Martin's "This Time I'm Swinging," released on Capitol Records in 1960, marked his first full album collaboration with the legendary conductor/arranger Nelson Riddle. This partnership yielded exactly what fans might expect—an effortlessly cool collection of contemporary and vintage standards delivered with Martin's signature relaxed charm and Riddle's sophisticated orchestrations.

Historical Significance
The album features Martin's first recording of "You're Nobody 'til Somebody Loves You," a song he would revisit four years later with a more contemporary arrangement that became one of his defining hits. Interestingly, of the 13 tracks recorded during these sessions, only "Ain't That a Kick in the Head" was omitted from the original release—a curious decision given the song's eventual iconic status. This oversight is corrected in Mobile Fidelity's 2014 reissue, which restores the track to the album.

The Mobile Fidelity Release
Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs released "This Time I'm Swinging" as part of their GAIN 2™ Ultra Analog Series. These pressings were marketed as "Original Master Recordings," supposedly plated and pressed on 180-gram high-definition vinyl and mastered directly from the original master tapes. However, as extensively documented by both consumers and industry professionals, MFSL incorporated an undisclosed digital step in their production process for most releases since approximately 2012—making the "Ultra Analog" designation technically misleading.

Sonic Assessment
The sonic character of this MFSL pressing clearly reveals its digital-hybrid origins. The natural warmth and dimensional depth typically associated with true all-analog audiophile vinyl pressings—qualities prominently displayed in competing releases like Analogue Productions' Dean Martin offerings—are noticeably absent here.

While the overall sound quality remains decent with adequate detail retrieval, the recording lacks that elusive "wow factor" that defines genuine audiophile pressings. The presentation feels somewhat flattened and less organic than one would expect from a premium reissue at this price point. Instruments and vocals occupy the right spaces within the soundstage, but without the three-dimensional presence and natural decay that characterize the finest analog transfers.

The Vinyl Verdict
Given these limitations, collectors might find more satisfaction in seeking out original pressings. Many of Martin's Reprise Records releases from slightly later in his career feature excellent pressing quality with more natural sound. However, it's worth noting that Martin's Capitol-era recordings were somewhat technically underwhelming even in their original form, which may contribute to the limitations evident in this reissue.

For devoted Dean Martin completists, this MFSL pressing still represents a convenient way to obtain this album with good (if not exceptional) sound quality and the bonus inclusion of "Ain't That a Kick in the Head." However, listeners primarily concerned with obtaining the most authentic sonic representation of Martin's collaboration with Riddle might want to explore alternative options or original pressings.

The album itself remains a delightful showcase for Martin's effortless vocal style and Riddle's impeccable arrangements—a musical partnership that deserves better than this somewhat compromised reissue. 💸

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