My Funny Valentine

Trumpeter-vocalist Chet Baker was at his peak of popularity during the years (1953-56) he recorded these sides. At his best, he could be strangely affecting-as on ”Let’s Get Lost,” the CD’s poignant high point. But most of this all-ballads compilation, My Funny Valentine, falls far short of that classic’s emotional impact. And the lack of variety in tempos, coupled with his limited vocal range, gives too many of the cuts a wearying sameness. B-