Martin Denny - Hypnotique (Remaster) (Import) (CD)

The pinnacle of Denny's career, Hypnotique earns a place in history for its achingly beautiful jacket design alone. The same photo shoot also yielded the cover photo for the Denny-produced "Exotic Dreams" by singer Ethel Azama. The music of Hypnotique is just as compelling, producing an effect that certainly must be described as hypnotic, if not occasionally feverish. This can be partially attributed to the help of guests Barbara Smith, John Mechigashari, and Bud Lee on various Japanese instruments. The Jack Halloran Singers also add understated vocal intrigue to two tracks, one of which is Les Baxter's "Voodoo Dreams." Liner notes are by author James Michener. Hypnotique is incredibly strong from start to finish, one of the first records one should pack in that slim, proverbial "desert island" suitcase. ~ Tony Wilds