Introduction
A Simmering Infatuation: Unveiling Elvis Presley’s “Almost In Love”
Elvis Presley’s “Almost In Love” isn’t a heart-wrenching ballad or a foot-stomping rockabilly anthem. Instead, it simmers with a subtle sensuality and a touch of longing, offering a glimpse into a different side of the King. Released in 1970 on the compilation album of the same title, the song’s origins trace back to a sunny Californian recording session a few years prior.
While details are scarce, “Almost In Love” is believed to have been recorded in 1968 during the sessions for the soundtrack of the film “Live a Little, Love a Little.” The film itself explored themes of swinging bachelorhood and newfound freedom, and “Almost In Love” seems to capture a similar sentiment.
The song’s composer, Luiz Bonfá, was a Brazilian musician known for his bossa nova sound. Elvis’s recording retains this influence, evident in the gentle guitar strumming and the laid-back rhythm section. The melody is both sophisticated and catchy, creating a perfect backdrop for Elvis’s smooth vocals.
The lyrics themselves paint a picture of a burgeoning romance, a hesitant dance around the edges of love. Lines like “I’m caught in a dream, a wonderful scheme / But I’m afraid to wake up” hint at a yearning for deeper connection, yet a fear of vulnerability.
“Almost In Love” stands out on the “Almost In Love” compilation album, a collection of previously unreleased tracks and alternate takes. It offers a welcome departure from the more rock-oriented songs on the album, showcasing Elvis’s ability to deliver a sophisticated and soulful performance.
While not a major chart hit, “Almost In Love” has garnered a dedicated following among Elvis fans who appreciate his versatility. It’s a song that captures the intoxicating uncertainty of a new attraction, a feeling of being “almost” but not quite there yet.
So, as you listen to “Almost In Love,” prepare to be swept away by the song’s gentle bossa nova groove and Elvis’s smooth vocals. It’s a song that lingers, leaving you wanting more, perfectly capturing that exhilarating state of being almost, but not quite, in love.