Keely Smith | That Old Black Magic | Valiant Records | 1965 | LP | Jazz / Vocal Swing

A classic mid-1960s vocal jazz album from Keely Smith, recorded at the height of her solo career. That Old Black Magic blends American Songbook standards with relaxed swing and polished studio arrangements, backed by Ernie Freeman’s orchestra.

The UK Valiant pressing is a solid analogue-era issue, pressed in England and aimed at the British jazz-pop market of the mid-60s. The familiar title track sits alongside interpretations of I’ve Got the World on a String, Autumn Leaves, and Just a Gigolo.

Track Listing

• Side 1: I’ve Got the World on a String / When You’re Smiling / The Sheik of Araby / I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues / Birth of the Blues / Oh, Baby
• Side 2: That Old Black Magic / Just a Gigolo / I Ain’t Got Nobody / Autumn Leaves / Buona Sera / Pennies from Heaven

Condition

Vinyl: Very Good Plus (VG+). Visually clean with a deep gloss, light sleeve-removal marks only and no feelable scratches visible under strong light.
Sleeve: Very Good (VG). Light general handling wear and mild ageing marks to the rear, with no splits or heavy damage.

Labels: Clean Valiant labels with sharp text and no writing or stickers.

Matrix / Runout: VS 113-A / VS 113-B (hand-etched), confirmed from photos.

Playback has not been tested; grading is visual only.

Collector’s Note: While not a first US Reprise pressing, this UK Valiant issue remains a well-regarded analogue cut and an affordable entry point for collectors of classic vocal jazz and American Songbook recordings.

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