Album: Fallen Angels

Introduction
"Fallen Angels" is the 37th studio album by famous singer-songwriter and Nobel laureate Bob Dylan, launched on May 20, 2016. The album is a follow-up to his 2015 release "Shadows in the Night" and like its predecessor, mostly consists of Dylan's covers of traditional American pop music from the Great American Songbook. With twelve tracks, the album includes tunes made up by famous songwriters such as Johnny Mercer, Harold Arlen, and Sammy Cahn, showcasing Dylan's deep respect and affection for the golden era of American music.

Background and Production
After receiving critical recognition for his take on Frank Sinatra's songs in "Shadows in the Night", Dylan decided to delve much deeper into the Great American Songbook for his next job. In an interview with AARP, Dylan expressed his appreciation for the requirements, mentioning, "These tunes are some of the most heartrending ever put on record and I wished to do them justice".

"Fallen Angels" was recorded at the historic Capitol Studios in Hollywood, with the same band that accompanied Dylan on "Shadows in the Night". The production was kept very little and most songs were tape-recorded in just a couple of takes, allowing Dylan's raw and intimate vocals to shine through. Especially, the album was produced by Dylan himself, who used the pseudonym Jack Frost.

Tracklist and Song Highlights
1. "Young at Heart" - This timeless Johnny Richards and Carolyn Leigh song highlights Dylan's warm and sentimental delivery, efficiently setting the mood for the album.
2. "Maybe You'll Be There" - In this performance of the Rube Bloom and Sammy Gallop-penned tune, Dylan's scratchy voice communicates a sense of yearning and vulnerability.
3. "Polka Dots and Moonbeams" - With a gentle arrangement and sweet lyrics, this Johnny Burke and Jimmy Van Heusen song showcases Dylan's tender side.
4. "All the Way" - Originally made popular by Frank Sinatra, Dylan's take on this Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen composition displays his distinct ability to provide a fresh viewpoint on traditional tunes.
5. "Skylark" - In this Hoagy Carmichael and Johnny Mercer piece, Dylan's voice takes a mystical and transcendent quality, completely capturing the tune's sense of escapism.
6. "Nevertheless" - Dylan brings his characteristic genuineness to this Bert Kalmar and Harry Ruby tune, offering a heartfelt analysis of a traditional love ballad.
7. "All or Nothing at All" - In one of the standout tracks on the album, Dylan's raw and psychological delivery matches the song's fascinating lyrics.
8. "On a Little Street in Singapore" - This Peter DeRose and Billy Hill composition permits Dylan to transport his inner crooner, transporting listeners back to the prime time of traditional American music.
9. "It Had to Be You" - The Isham Jones and Gus Kahn song showcases Dylan's unpretentious and genuine vocal style, including depth to the straightforward lyrics.
10. "Melancholy Mood" - With moody instrumentals and relatable lyrics, this Walter Schumann and Vick Knight piece highlights Dylan's capability to convey complex feelings through his voice.
11. "That Old Black Magic" - This energetic Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer tune allows Dylan to display his flexibility, taking a step away from the more somber tracks on the album.
12. "Come Rain or Come Shine" - The album closes on a victorious note with this Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer gem that highlights Dylan's capability to inject brand-new life into old requirements.

Reception and Legacy
"Fallen Angels" got blended to positive evaluations from critics, who praised Dylan's distinct analysis of American requirements, while keeping in mind that the album lacked the immediate effect of his original work. Nonetheless, the album stands as a testimony to Dylan's enduring influence and his ability to check out new musical area throughout his profession. By commemorating the ageless songs of a bygone age, Dylan proved once again that he remains a crucial and appropriate artist, even 5 decades into his career.