At 80, still a popular performer and recording artist, Bennett continues to explore new ideas in his art. Rather than write a traditional biography, interviewer Sullivan (Remembering Sinatra
) decided to focus on presenting the Bennett perspective on life, framed by over 200 of Bennett's paintings and sketches. When Bennett recalls Cary Grant advising him not to go into acting, his elegant painting of Grant emphasizes their mutual admiration. A discussion of aboriginal art's similarities to music is illustrated by Bennett's painting of James Moody with an “aborigine-type background.” His portrait sketches alone form a kind of visual history of American jazz and the people who influenced it. A CD of Bennett “pop” classics is also tucked in, including “But Beautiful,” “The Very Thought of You” and four other hits. Readers needing a fuller account of Bennett's life may prefer his autobiography, The Good Life
, but to get a feeling for his visual styles, music and totally upbeat attitude to life, this volume is perfect. 200 color illus. not seen by PW
. (Oct.)
