When Harry Met Sally

Performer: Original Soundtrack/Harry Connick, Jr.
Engineer: Dennis Ferrante; Tim Geelan
Producer: Harry Connick, Jr.; Marc Shaiman
Distributor: Sony Music Distribution (

Notes: Eleven songs are performed by Harry Connick Jr. Includes liner notes by Rob Reiner. Personnel: Harry Connick, Jr. (vocals, piano); Jay Berliner (guitar, acoustic guitar); Frank Wess (saxophone, tenor saxophone); Marc Shaiman (piano); Jeff "Tain" Watts (drums). Audio Mixers: Harry Connick, Jr.; Marc Shaiman ; Tim Geelan. Recording information: RCA Studio B, New York, NY (06/06/1989-06/19/1989). Editors: Harry Connick, Jr.; Marc Shaiman . Photographer: David Gahr. Arranger: Marc Shaiman . Harry Connick, Jr.'s contributions to Rob Reiner's film WHEN HARRY MET SALLY were the deciding factor in the young New Orleanian's commercial breakthrough. Both the film and the soundtrack were hits, and Connick's popularity was off and running. The fare, here, is strictly American songbook, with renditions of "It Had To Be You," "Love Is Here To Stay," and "Autumn in New York" perfectly complementing Reiner's romantic comedy. Connick also brings a youthful warmth to these old chestnuts that's difficult to resist. Whether singing in front of a big band, or providing some of his impressive solo piano work, Connick is the embodiment of the young traditionalist, a role that would continue to hold him in good stead for the next several years. Of the Harry Connick, Jr., albums featuring his vocals, this remains one of the best. Harry Connick, Jr.'s vocals perfectly fit the moods throughout the 1989 Billy Crystal film When Harry Met Sally. This soundtrack album (which stands apart from the movie) was a big hit and a major step forward for the young pianist-vocalist, although it appears to have been the high point of his career. Connick warmly sings such numbers as "It Had to Be You," "Our Love Is Here to Stay," "But Not for Me," and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," while usually accompanied by bassist Benjamin Wolfe, drummer Jeff "Tain" Watts, and a big band. Frank Wess' warm tenor makes a brief appearance on "Our Love Is Here to Stay." In addition, there are a few melodic instrumentals, including some solo Connick piano on "Winter Wonderland" and "Autumn in New York." Highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow

Rolling Stone - 3.5 Stars - Very Good

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