This came out in 2004 – or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
There are really only two types of tribute CDs: The ones that let artists have it their way, and the ones that force them to rein in their egos and play nice.
De-Lovely, a star-studded salute to songwriter Cole Porter (and the soundtrack to a new biopic), takes the latter road. Thus we are treated to hearing popsters like Robbie Williams, Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morissette and Elvis Costello turn in swellegant jazz-era versions of Let’s Do It, Begin the Beguine and Let’s Misbehave. Sadly, we also have to listen to Kevin Kline, who plays Porter in the period-piece pic. But a vintage slice of old king Cole singing You’re The Top is almost enough to make you forgive and forget. Overall, this may not be the most adventurous tribute. But it surely is one of the most respectful. And for Porter fans, it’s doubtlessly De-Lovely.
