Like many people, I grew up believing that all I needed to know about Bobby Darin was ‘Splish Splash’. Even after I’d been a Frank Sinatra fan for many years I still had no idea of the quality of Bobby Darin’s big band work. It took some serious prodding by a good friend to finally get me to listen to a Darin CD. And when I did, I have to admit that I was simply blown away by his talent. His appeal was obvious and instant and I’ve been hooked ever since.

So when a new Darin CD or DVD is released I get a little excited. Such is the case with this new DVD, Seeing Is Believing a  compilation of 20 Darin’s television appearances over the years.

Though the production value of this DVD is somewhat spartan (no liner notes or dates of appearance), the quality of the performances cannot be denied. Most appear to be from the late 1960’s or early 1970’s, which was somewhat late in the game for Darin, as he died in 1973 and had long suffered from a weak heart. At least a portion of this DVD doesn’t show Bobby at his best, but his undeniable talent manages to shine through on several memorable cuts, including Artificial Flowers, Come Rain or Come Shine, Cry Me A River and Caravan.

While I still wish someone would release some early-60’s video of Darin (when he was at his peak), this disc is going to have to do for now.