Title: HARDLY A BEST BETTE
Review: Bette Midler is trying hard to be the white Ella Fitzgerald --- first a tribute songbook to Rosemary Clooney (an acceptable accomplishment), and now a tribute to the woman with fever. But this is far from a best Bette. It was musical director and guest vocalist Barry Manilow --- his arrangements are marvelous --- who suggested the divine Miss M do this recording; Bette's lack of Lee's depth and accomplishments show. "Fever" is finger-snapping imitation that never hits its mark; "Is That All There Is?" has Midler excessively emoting in a way in which Lee never did; even through Bose speakers, it's so over-the-top it's embarrassing. If Happiness is a Thing Called Joe, then where's Jo Stafford when we need her?
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