Recent big band releases on CD and DVD AND recommendations, sometimes things pass you by, I try to catch a few ........

Unfortunately today there are few places that collect information about releases and re-releases of big bands on CD. Some , quite rightly, publicise their own bands or bands that perform in their region. 20 plus years buying and selling recordings in the past (I am now retired) has left me with many contacts and fellow collectors who are willing to keep me informed; as you can see in these pages. Sometimes searches are inhibited by not knowing the names of albums and artists AND a genuine recommendation that can be trusted from someone without a commercial interest. I do not sell albums - been there, done that. I can often give pointers here to help you search. In the first instance I have to recommend AMAZON, and CD BABY as first ports of call for bargains; AMAZON's used albums are always worth checking. Sometimes just knowing a name can broaden searches.

THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE BETTER ABLE TO DESCRIBE THE MERITS OF THESE BIG BAND RECORDINGS. I TRY TO BE BRIEF AND TO THE POINT SO YOU CAN MAKE YOUR SELECTIONS WITHOUT PLOUGHING THROUGH YARDS AND YARDS OF TEXT.

PROBABLY TEACHING GRANDMA TO SUCK EGGS BUT YOU DO KNOW THAT WHEREVER YOU ARE, WITH A FEW EXCEPTIONS YOU CAN DEAL WITH ANY FLAVOUR OF AMAZON, USA, UK ETC.?

The postage may differ a little and the delivery time may be a little longer. The other thing to note is that a more expensive purchase, e.g. a camera may attract customs duty if you buy out of your area e.g. in the UK buying from the USA. Check with Customs on the 'net if you are not sure, then you won't get a nasty surprise.

Being mono-lingual, with a few early anglo saxon expressions when annoyed, I enjoy trawling the world for new albums. I used to be frustrated by e.g. Japanese or German sites. A very useful add-on via Google is 'G-Translate'. Go to Firefox/tools/add-ons. That add-on puts a link on Firefox ( and maybe Explorer- which I do not use). As and when you meet a page that is in German, French Japanese even, you will see a 90% accurate translation into your language. Simple instructions are provided on site.

Trouble is.......... they don't know it yet. They get few chances to hear it. Big band music is beyond the comprehension of most broadcasters who think the world first started turning in the 80's. Anything before that is dead and gone. Chances are you, like me, belong to a forgotten generation. Can you remember the first time you heard a big band LIVE ? Shivers down the spine EH! Deep JOY! A nod to Stanley Unwin!

These pages are not sponsored. I have time to give potted reviews so you know enough to consider purchase. They are all recent additions to my collection. I cannot buy everything, so on occasions I may just have enough information for you to do your own research.

Scores of my old vynil albums are collecting dust, and somehow it is a little bit of a bother to play them now. I know.... it shouldn't be.

A very good friend of mine sent me a copy, on CD of an old collectible he had on LP. Sounded like a new CD to me. The presentation impressed me too, loved the printable CD facility he had. Anyhow I bought a Canon Printer (for me the iP4700) and I was now able to print decent CD disks. I also bought the software he had been using to transfer LPs to CD. You can buy a turntable that connects to a PC but the results can be disappointing and the associated software does not inspire, so you cannot enhance to an acceptable level.

I bought MAGIX AUDIO CLEANING LAB and crossed my fingers as I am no computer guru. The Lab comes in 3 versions; 15, 16, 17 and not as expensive as you would expect.

Connect your hi fi to you PC using usual cabling and you can record off your sound card, Or if you have a CD recorder, make a master CD on a special RW 'Music' CDR. Put that in your PC and load it into the program. I prefer the latter.

Though daunting to look at, using the obvious presets you can diminish any clicks or pops, in fact get rid of them if you try harder. You can, again using presets enhance the sound, a bit more presence or a little less bass more treble and so on.

I have now committed most of my collection to very presentable CD sets.

One word of warning however! The original engineers knew what they were doing, so the sound they created was not bad, just a little titivating as above is usually OK. When you get brave and start using the controls, not always the presets, you can amaze yourself. Don't forget, too much fiddling can cause problems, surprising, apart from crackling and popping what you can get away with to get a result.

Check out Amazon for the prices.

One thing about downloading can be frustrating. I suspect some of you put your down onto a regular CDR and scribble artiste and album title onto the disk with a marker pen. It looks scruffy and somehow demeans the value of the disc. In I-tunes create a temporary playlist; see drop-down menu. Drag and drop your download into that temporary playlist. Check that the tracks are in the right order, if necessary click the up/down arrow next to 'NAME' in the right pane, that will reverse the order if necessary. Press print and check print CD Jewel Case. This will print a front cover and a list of tracks. You can also check the theme menu you can see and as well as the cover picture it will give you a background under the track list. Makes the download look good, makes you look clever! All this depends really on whether the download comes with cover art; or if you have put your own CD into I-Tunes, whether or not the CD is in the database. Give it a whirl.... Make sure in the menu that appears when you put details in tines, that you check the box to insert cover art everytime. You are never too late, you can call up any albums in I-Tunes and open the 'Info' page and check the 'cover art' box anytime. If you print your insert on glossy paper, which will extra posh, make sure you select paper type in the drop down print menu. It will still look OK on plain paper but.....

Please check the link on the right to visit my other Hubs. All are jazz related and discuss the careers of some major jazz and big band personalities: BOB FLORENCE, ROB MCONNELL, DON ELLIS, TOM KUBIS, BILL HOLMAN and drummer JEFF HAMILTON. These pieces are not on the internet, so you will not have had the opportunity to read them Hopefully they will encourage you to seek out recordings by them.

I add this one as an indication of my appreciation of arranger Pete Coulman who featured in what I called the classic era of the HUMBER COLLEGE JAZZ ENSEMBLE in Toronto. During this period a number of the students went on to play in the Late Rob McConnel's Boss Brass. If you ever see albums by HUMBER, especially the early ones, buy.... treat yourself! However this is a departure for Pete.

There are countless albums featuring predictable selections of big band era hits. Local bands boost funds by producing commendable recordings which are appreciated by local fans, attendees at concerts and that is great. Unfortunately they can lack that presence that will encourage sales beyond the area. Other times professionals produce uninspired but accurate performances on album. Occasionally someone tries a little hard as does Pete here. He is faithful to the era and the solos are in concept - no year 2000 solos on 1940's material. The musicians who are top guys from Canada have fun on this beautifully recorded CD. Pete, being Pete injects some of his trademark tasty ensemble writing to lift the performances, making this a recording that gives life to this fine music making it very enjoyable. This is available as a download on Amazon or I-Tunes. ALWAYS CHECK I-TUNES by the way.

I know you know this, but someone else may not have your spirit of adventure! Youtube is being used by many independant bands to make their presence felt. It seems few bands do not have a visual presence on the site. Whenever I recommend a band, check it out at Youtube please. In fact, pick any band and you can bet there will be audio or video up there. As an example, I am considered to be reasonably well informed re DON ELLIS - or I thought I was! But I was not alone being shocked to find excellent concert video I did not know existed. All the research I did and made available to the producers of ELECTRIC HEART the DVD documentary concerning Don's career; all the research done by producer John Vizzusi and others, including Tony Agostinelli, did not unearth this film. So bet your life there is something about most of the material I mention on this site. http://jevizzusi.site.aplus.net/electricheart/id1.html , go to this site to find out how to get the DVD which is already winning awards.

Ray Brown late of the Kenton Orchestra has released his latest album is available now via Amazon, CD Universe and so on. There is even a legal download via Amazon. Don forget you can copy the album cover and paste it in any cover/sleeve you may create!. One heck of a band featuring alumni of the great Bob Florence Limited |Edition and many others. The music is what I would call modern swing; that is a broad appeal to those who enjoy a lyrical approach as well as those who get pleasure from quality solos. There is a great review in ALL ABOUT JAZZ (Google it). Having mention Kenton, Ray Brown is no Kenton clone so if the occasional bombast of Kenton bothers you; no worries, no sharp edges here. Great arranging some classic tunes, beautifully performed.

The arrangements are original, no standards, but clever writing makes this modern jazz big band accessible. Not for Glenn Miller fans I would say but jazz fans will appreciate the eloquent arranging and the quality of the soloing.  It can be downloaded at Amazon and there are soiund samples. The actual CD is not cheap at the moment.

I came across the following LPs a long time ago and, by accident. Complete surprise to me as I cannot recall Jazz Journal reviews or them being played on the BBC. This is a shame because Max Greger's German big band was a force then, as many German big bands are today. He released two LPs MAXIMUM and European Jazz Sounds. The former featured Benny Bailey, Rick Keifer, Dick Spencer and Don Menza. The latter a similar personel without Menza and Spencer. Now if you enjoy the music of Woody Herman (useful comparison) then this out and out shouting big band will excite. You cannot buy the original albums unless you have won the lottery but for around £6.00 each you can download them from Amazon.

A student of Hank Levy at Towson State University. Glenn took over the job when sadly that genius Hank Levy passed on. All this big band needs is Bob Florence on Piano! Most of his sidemen are on this swinging modern big band. It is available on CD Baby and CD Universe. Maybe on Amazon soon!

Featuring Ken Peplowski and on the Chandos label, this title is available on I-Tunes. By the way you do not have to have an Ipod to use I-Tunes, just a free account and the I-Tunes download. Then it is on your PC and transferable to CD.

Not quite of the standard of the Coulman album commented on earlier but not bad....

It is available on the label's site and as a download or CD on Amazon.

This is yet another excellent Californian Jazz Big Band of high quality, again, officianados of Herm etc., will hear a lot to enjoy. In fact it would pay to search this guy on the 'net, including Amazon for earlier releases. He is a high quality arranger who gives the personnel encouragement to perform via the finest arrangements.

Check out CD Baby as usual and also Amazon. Available in dowload and CD form.

A Russian Big Band!!! Whatever.........

Actually a very muscular big band in the manner of the great jazz big bands you know. It is a constant surprise to me just how marvellous these bands in the East are. There are two albums by the this band (big band) as far as I know. I have MOSCOW AT 3AM and THE ETERNAL TRIANGLE. The former includes hard core jazz charts by Nick Levinozsky; a NY band leader and music of a similar style featuring Randy Brecker.

Available at CD Baby and Amazon and no doubt via other suppliers.

Using superlatives too freely sometimes leaves you nowhere to go when the exceptional happens. Well, I am in trouble!
As a collector I go to some length to acquire new recordings.

Well I found the HJO, I paid my money and waited, expecting something that was O.K., play it once and file it!
That is not how it happened. I lost a morning's work, I took half an hour off a car journey, playing the CD put 10 miles an hour on my top speed.

The music is taken from a well recorded radio broadcast, it is live. There are sudden cutoffs at the ends of some tracks, they don't intrude on the music, remember this is a demo' CD! Bob Florence once told me that there must be joy in the music.

This CD overdoses on joy, on talent on excitement. The arrangement selection is wonderful.

The staff arranger is Rob Pronk for heaven's sake. Peter Herbolzheimer chips in with SILHOUETTE and a version of CHEROKEE that should have a government health warning. The soloists are breath-taking. I should have been there.
This has to rank with my all time favorite recordings. I know I will play it again and again."

http://www.renelaanen.com/recordings.htm for your contact to buy. I understand that recently supplies have dried up recently. There are opportunities to download elsewhere but
I do not know these sites, perhaps someone would suggest one.

Amazon and CD Baby will supply you with a download or a CD. This is an excellent re-visiting of the music of Gerry Mulligan. Highly recommended and available on the JAZZ SHOWCASE label.I am a fan of G.M. and have no problem with well performed tributes. There are so called tributes elsewhere, they often serve to remind you that G M's sound and facility is a gift that has not visited others; the word is unique I guess. This recording is definately one of the best

Pictures At An Exhibition/Echoes Of Aranguez, the former with Claire and Brent Fischer, the latter arranged and directed by Bill Holman. Two extended works; amazing how this format is acceptable in Europe and not always elsewhere. The HR Big Band  is bristling with the best musicians and soloists to showcase these acceptably intense and beautiful arrangements on these classic themes. This is available as usual at CD Baby and on Amazon. Top German bands give the best of the jazz heirarchy the best showcases anywhere for their work and should always be checked out

South Florida area harbours an ex-student of Robert Morgan at the High School Of Performing And Visual Arts which many years ago, unusually released student albums that displayed maturity beyond the age and maturity of a lot of the students. Hats off to Bob Morgan! Jason Ainsworth. He went to NY and harvested the talents of young NY musicians. Jason displays a great talent for writing accessible and innovative smooth swinging charts that occasionally bite you in the ***. There are guests Claudio Roditi, Jon Irobagon and Michael Deese about whom I am not well informed, but I know what I hear and this is excellent. CD Baby again makes this album available.

Excellent big band recorded on the West Coast by this Texan trumpeter. Oozes quality and just about every arrangement is selected for the soloist to shine on. Hargrove features on many charts displaying a lyrical sensititivy that impresses. If you wanted to hear Roberta Gambini , a vocalist who, in the last few years has found a rightfull place among the great exceptional contemporary vocalists, revered by many particularly from CDs done with the Pratt Brother Big Band. Check this one out at Amazon for a download and CD. The balance of this music is definately angled more to jazz and the soloists, having said that I cannot fault the arrangements. One not to miss.

Featuring the Vibes of Fris Landesbergen and the superlative drumms of Jeff Hamilton. Listening to the big bands you are often reminded of a particular musician. Don't get stuck in a big band rut; like me you may miss out on a gem in another genre. This is a swinging quartet and the vibist is sort of wonderful and the setting for him is just about perfect. Larry Fuller is on piano and Lynn Seaton on bass, the latter you may remember from the John Von Ohlen BLUE WISP big band CDs. Come on for heaven's sake check those out too JEESH!!!! Hamilton manages to be an absolute gentleman as well as a 'good as it gets' drummer. Possibly the most musical on the planet. Highly, highly, highly recommended. Amazon will do it for you. I should start giving out stars! This one ***** plus!

I know this will be good. It is released on the 18th February and can be pre-ordered via Amazon.

http://www.classicsonline.com/catalogue/product.aspx?pid=1132484 this website will give you the tracks. I have everyone of these latest releases and cannot fault any of them......pure class AND with the extraordinary SWR Big Band too. Double Whammy!!! It is available now as a download in the USA but not in the UK. The CD may be ordered anyhow; I have ordered mine!

The other Portland Jazz Orchester (no relative). Straight forward well chosen selection of audience friendly arrangements. Feet tapping, loud applause and topped off by Bob Florence's masterpiece CARMELLO'S BY THE FREEWAY. An arrangement that is easy to play badly and should be left to bands of this calibre.New England's best do justice. Available at CD Baby, check out ALL ABOUT JAZZ for fulsome reviews.

Not to be confused with a similar named band 3000 miles away. A little confusing as listing alphabetically puts them alongside each other in the CD Baby catalogue. They are alike in one way! Thoroughly enjoyable innovative swinging arrangements and great soloists. CD Baby makes another gem available that would not be given the time of day by the majors. Hopefully the local broadcasters give it airplay. It certainly deserves it.

There never has been a more apt title for a big band recording. This is a PHILIPS album that was lost to the archives and irretrievable. I had the original LP and worked hard to get it back to something like the original condition. This was something I did not want to lose. Recorded in 1971 at THE INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL LOOSDRECHT the band was led by Jerry Van Rooyen. Some of the names:Benny Bailey, Rich Keifer,Rolf Ericson,Ack Van Yooyen,Ake Perso, Jiggs Whigham, Herb Geller, Tony Coe, Ferdinand Povel and Tony Inzalaco and more. The arrangements are by Rob Pronk, Jerry Van Rooyen and various other members of the band. The band had been together for four days and these tracks were culled from the last three of those four days. This is the most exciting most riveting performance by any big band ever. Hard core Hermanesque, Jones Lewis style. It is available as a download from Amazon, you can get an LP but you will have to sell your first borne. In spirit this band had been together for a lifetime. A former expensive collector's item.

Pardon the mention but I have an old beaten , unplayable LP of this thing of beauty. I longed to replace it, but Japanese prices precluded that extravagance. I am not normally a fan of the MJQ, I found the music did not connect with me; rather like listening to the group through a window unobserved.Interrupting private moment. Then came Laurinda Almaida on guitar who somehow inspires the emotional content of the group's playing. The Concierto de Aranjuez and Silver are good examples. The whole thing is beautiful, seductive you just wish it was longer. Available on Amazon as a CD.

This trumpeter band leader was for 7 years in the Basie band , got the bug and put this band togther in the South West of the USA. It swings, it's dynamic the flavour is swing, it's latin and it's bebop. A lot of people are trying to keep the big bands going. A swift trawl of the 'net will locate suppliers, althouygh you best chance for this elf produced CD is CD Baby.

Now famous son of a famous father SONNY IGOE. Check out Youtube and get a hint of the power and impact of this band of top NY musicians. Now go to Amazon, and among all the drum tuition videos you will see reference to three recordings you can buy - if you feel brave enough. Assertive, confident, acceptable arrogant displays of razor sharp ensemble, blistering solos and magnificent drumming. These guys have fun and it is infectious. The CD's NEW GROUND -LIVE FROM NEW YORK - and the ultimate pleasure THE DVD YUP the full monty! The tracks on the DVD are,some of them, repeated on the DVD; have both, knock yourself out and stick those cans on and wallow. Just one point, on one track on the DVD is featured a solo by Rolando Morales-Matos. He appears to be soloing on a tuned, upturned Wok. Sounds corny but I guarantee you will watch it again and again for the skill, dexterity, musicality and novelty. I have never seen anything like it. Check out Amazon for these recordings. To be extra clear the tuition videos are just that and the recordings I mention are all performances.

A Fontana CD but not available anymore it seems, except as a download from German Amazon not UK Amazon. I have been getting quite a few CDs etc from this site and no problem has been posed. Elsewhere at the top of this site I have told you about a 'TRANSLATE' add-on. You do not need to use it but it is useful, the site has all the links in the same places. If insecure add and use the TRANSLATE function to translate the Google page. It has a difference word for 'buy' etc. You can just highlight the link to confirm! Be a devil.... try.

Now about the CD. If you like the idea of super stereo recording by an excellent big band; if you like Kenton but prefer his music in a less bombastic mood and swinging, this will do it. Believe me it is worth the effort.

http://www.cosmicsounds-london.com/YU-JAZZ/rtbcocpt.htm . Visit to this site and you will find some CDs that perhaps may intrigue. The scene here is surprisingly vibrant strong sounds, great jazz and some terrific big band sounds that push the envelope so Glenn Miller fans look away now! On occasions with these RTV recordings I am reminded of Don Ellis and even the Clark Boland Big Band. On this occasion maybe the latter. The arrangers manage to create interesting stream of consciousness charts that, although they maybe considered 'cutting edge', somehow do not alienate listeners by producing those sharp edges and beyond logic left turns that can surprise and alarm. Rather like Bill Holman, they do resolve and make sense. The style is not in Holman's style by the way.

I enjoy this CD very much and am constantly amazed by the invention of the soloists; none of which you will know. Beautifully recorded by the way. Many of the recordings from this company are digitised LPs it seems, copied legally by the way, so you may hear an odd click. Still the music has been restored and will now be available. If you want, check the personnel of some of the bands and you will see names like Dusko and Francy hidden there. Serendipidy rules!

Music for this Denver Colorado Big Band is composed ansd arranged by Franz Roehmann. Available from CD Baby - http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/ConcertJazzOrchestra. In the tradition of todays well arranged modern swing style, this album swings its way through standards and originals. We are so fortunate to have regional big bands that realise the listener is important, So often band use music that is technically interesting to the the musicians and any pleasure for the audience incidental. This covers all bases and is recommended. CD Baby oblige with the download. Don't forget what I said, get it into I-tunes and the download your own CD is a piece of cake.

Available from Amazon and Play.com on 'Diving Duck' label. This is a British Big Band is populated using top players from the London scene led by Ed Puddick. Interestingly we have a well recorded tribute to music from GUYS AND DOLLS, but using various styles to express the thoughts. This is not one of those productions that has been cheaply put together to sell to the audience. Puddick has decided the music, the arrangements are good enough certainly the band is good enough to be properly presented and appreciated by a wider audience. Some of the names you may recognise as distant alumni from the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. the MIdland Youth Jazz orchestra, Pete Cater's fabulous band too. This is not a youth Orchestra. In happier times with air exposure from the BBC (my little joke), this band would travel the country.

If only they could learn to mime!

Recorded In Miami in 2009 with a few names and a blast from the past. This is one of the many 'new' big bands that I would have in my old catalogue and expect to do well; please a lot of people. Available from CD Baby. What else do you want to know? Just think of any of the great big bands that you may have collected from me. This is an excellent, dynamic, modern swing big band. No tricks, just straight ahead well orchestrated, mostly original compositions. The label by the way, is Bada Beep!!!

Heavens above, these continental big bands are on the way to ruling the world. Apparently from Germany, the title is a clue. This is a hot big band full of imaginative arrangements. Some latin some ruminative swing, others at full blast. Two vocals, one of the vocals is reprised as the final track sans vocalist. I know some are put off by vocals, please check them out before you decide to avoid them. Amazon has this one.

The cost $20 (New Zealand) which converts to £9.50 with post to be added. I have had over the years, a number of Rodger Fox Big Band LPs which I assume is the same band. Sad to say I was not impressed either with the engineering or the (to me), less than mature sound of the band. My opinion by the way, not necessarily shared by everyone. It may have been down to production costs I don't know. Now I have RUN FOR COVER featuring Bill Cunliffe, Clay Jenkins, Bob Sheppard et al. Arrangements are by Bill Liston, Don Menza, Sammy Nestico Gary McFarland and more. The immediate impact is WOW!! What an excellent band..... a keeper. Modern swing fest'. Not available outside NZ it seems, but if you contact - http://www.jayrem.co.nz/product_info.php?cPath=101&products_id=334 you may get an indication of costs.

We've have waited so long for the this CD after being thrilled by the THRESHOLD recording. Well  you can get it on CD, or via a download from : http://www.artistshare.com/projects/project_experience.aspx?ProjectID=165&artistID=100&salesTypeID=6 (cut and paste into your browser). You will either not be disappointed or wonder why the blazes you don't have THRESHOLD. The CD has an epic quality, the sense of occasion is with you throughout. You know this is something important and special in the big band firmament. One heck of a band too. Pete Erskine on drums and a fair number of Bob Florence alumni. There are some that are not too familiar with cutting and pasting! Just highlight the URL above; and only the URL. Press CTRL C, open your browser, hopefully you have the sense to use FIREFOX (more secure). Put the curser into the search dialoge box and CTRL V and enter.

I must admit I have an affection for the swing era, even more so now I am retired. Glen Gray and Les Brown sort of reminded me of the excellence of the musicians of yesteryear and the quality of the arrangements played. These guys were technically outstanding, in their way every bit as good as they are today. The music is different is all. I always say that as with some music today it is easy to play badly but played by good caring musicians it is a blast. Anyhow via a kind recommendation from someone who spotted these pages I now have via German Amazon a CD that commemorates Benny Goodman's 100th Birthday. He couldn't make it sadly! It is 'LIVE' and bounces along beautifully. The style is very respectful of the era of the Carnegie Hall concert and thankfully every solo is of that era. Too many young musicians today try to fit modern solos into this sort of music. It does not work guys, have respect! Acknowledge the history of the music. The guest clarinetist is from New York - Dan Levinson, great sound and very Benny in style! This lovely set swings and bounces along magnificently, the phrasing is spot on. The drummer knows his Krupa and I would not be too surprised if he had old fashioned cowhide skins, certainly a helluva bass drum. Make the effort if you like swing. It does not get any better than this.

A debut CD and 'Steppin' Out' 10th Anniversary CD.Canada has the habit of of having seemingly well supported regional big bands. Rob McConnel has said that he would be forever grateful for the support he had. So one assumes that the country acknowledges the fact that this culture need to know that the country respects and supports their efforts. Would that the UK had the same approach! Anyhow I would have been delighted to have these CDs in my catalogue. Tight and loose ensemble, articulate soloists who know the audience is the thing. As ever Canada has the arrangers to feed this energy , the result is, on this occasion two CDs that are worth finding. Go to CD Baby for either the download or the CD.

I have two of their CDs 'Toronto Jazz Orchestra' and 'The Path'. There are four available, the former on Amazon, probably your better deal, and the rest on CD Baby, at least one of them is CD album only. I have a soft spot and great trust in any music that radiates from Canada. As with other centres of population, if you trace the provenance of the musicians involved back to where it all started for them, you may find the same mentors cropping up time and time again. This being so, there is a predictable standard of excellence. These two CDs and I expect the others, feature modern swing arrangements with names like Bill Holman, Hank Levy and so on cropping up. Trust me or listen to one or two of the excerpts and you will see what I mean. My reputation is on the line here.

If you ever wondered where the alumni of the Bob Florence Limited Edition were on a certain date; I can tell you now. They were recording this album. It is now a federal offence to make an album without Wayne Bergeron leading the trumpets . Big broad sound, perfect intonation and apparently no effort; a force of nature. A fabulous modern swing big band with the finest West Coast players. Anyone know the arrangers involved? The downside of downloading! I suspect many by George Stone. Anyhow the album will not disappoint.

Of course this is Mary Lou Williams! The band, the excellent Dutch Jazz Orchestra. For some reason I passed this CD over until forced by a very good friend to trust his judgement. Alternate title of this CD is REDISCOVERED MUSIC OF MARY LOU WILLIAMS. The music goes back to Andy Kirk, the most recent writing is 1967. Straight ahead melodic swing complimented by the peerless DJO. Immediate appeal, no tricks or srtifices just quality swing and great soloists complimenting the era beautifully. Amazon will supply you.

A site that does a lot and takes a lot of risks on behalf of fans and musicians in our cause deserves a visit. See their new releases and back catalogue for inspiration. Link below.

All these enthusiastic musicians beavering away producing excellent swinging big band music for their fans! This album features original music and arrangement, all in the modern swing idiom. I cannot tell you a lot about the band except to remind you to support your regional big bands. The 'scene' needs all the help and encouragement that can be musterd. You will enjoy this CD I reckon. CD Baby yet again gives a good independant big band some chance at wider exposure.

Apparently the last appearance of Gerry Neiwood is on this CD which should make it of interest to a few more people. Michael Treni is striving to get away from the strict formula that can interupt soloists in full flight. He aims to find a better balance between ensembles and soloists giving the latter more freedon. Frightening word 'freedom'. Don't be concerned, as in this case it has nothing to do with the avante guard or music that stretches and breaks the concentration of listeners who seek pleasure in their listening. There are musicians who selfishly get into almost an unrelated flight of notes that work well in their heads, but don't get past the footlights and encourage bathroom visits or 'anyone want another drink'. Mr Treni gets it right for me with his thoughtfully written arrangments.

I have found my copy of the other CD I have by the below mentioned big band. All comments below apply. with addition that added to the personnel is the late Bob Florence on piano. Fitting I suppose that in the short while before he passed away he was sampling the thrill of being on the road,in a great band and with so many of his friends; also lapping up applause when he was introduced to audiences. For me very sad in retrospect, but for him a delight. This is available in the same way as the other Mike Vax CD below. Obviously nods to Kenton but fresh music including music that very possibly Kenton would have played.

So many of our heroes are no longer with us. Adding to the long list of the 'late lamented' who drove the swing era, we have relatively recently lost Stan Kenton, Bob Florence, Rob McConnell, Peter Herbolzheimer, Jack Parnell, Don Lusher, Vic Lewis.... the list is too long. Still there are those among us who experienced the swing era. We should think ourselves fortunate.We do, however, have Mike Vax, the indestructible Mike Vax, still an outstanding trumpeter. Mike is doggedly refusing to slow down.The Kenton alumni band is an assembly of top musicians who were associated directly or indirectly with Kenton. His estate did not allow the band to continue after he died.The musicians extant, however, have lost none of their ability to perform at a very high standard, or the desire so to do. So what do we have? We have as good a band as you can get, playing music in the Kenton style, some nods toward's Kenton's library and outstanding examples of the contemporary swinging era that is current, composed and arranged by some of today's giants in the industry. The band is often on tour in the USA, working hard to pursuade young people that the musical experience is second to none, and promoters to understand that the parlous state of the music industry needs the inspiration and faith of a VAX to restore quality to the listening public. I maintain that there are millions of big band fans out there, they just don't know it yet. When they get the chance to hear this timeless music, lights will go on! WOW! WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT WILL BE THE CRY! You can get this and other albums by this band from site below and via Amazon.

That's the name of an exceptional big band and Phil Kelly is the composer, arranger and producer of three remarkable compact discs,. The group, radiating from the Pacific Northwest is a carefully selected ensemble that takes advantage of the best West Coast musicians and beautifully written arrangements that explore the phenomenon of contemporary swinging music.Quite a roll call of musicians including Pete Christleib, Andy Martin, Gary Hobbs, Pat Coil, Jay Thomas and many more fugitives from the bands/orchestras of Bill Holman, Bob Florence and more. MY MUSEUM, BALLET OF THE BOUNCING BEAGLES, CONVERGENCE ZONE.... all three CDs are as good as it gets. Phil has a lot more music inside him bursting to be heard by lovers of the big bands. No sharp edges with this group you will be seduced by the energy the music releases, no wonder the soloists excel themselves. Must have CDs available from Amazon and from the label ORIGIN and OA2 Records

It seems that my Hub has sparked some interest and is getting more widely known. In fairness, much of the credit must go to KS the Croydon seer of seers, who has put his collection and his knowledge of the big band scene at my disposal. Many thanks.... much appreciated.

The late Bobby 'Butter' Burgess, a legend among trombonists and perhaps not as well known as he should be. In the 60's and seventies, can you remember fighting for seats at the most prestigious concert venues to see Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, Stan Kenton and so on? Well, maybe we do not have the venues, maybe most of them have left us. We have their recordings of course, but you must be reminded that we still have great musicians who enjoy the music and are programmed to play whenever they get a chance. Excellent regional big bands in the UK and in the USA; a fabulous scene in Germany, Denmark and maybe surprisingly, in places like Prague. Never ever played on the BBC of course. Too good and beyond the understanding of the company except on BBC Radio York and BBC Radio Nottingham. One of these bands is the Bobby Burgess Big Band Explosion. His team of young turks joy in exploring the music. Bobby, otherwise known as 'Butter' due to his smooth vibrant sound was the leader and mentor of the band and his legacy lives on today. An appropriate epithet 'Explosive', high velocity, incendiary dynamics littered his concerts; exactly what you were enjoying in those fondly remembered years. Listen up kids, real musicians......no miming. BUTTER'S IDEA and LIVE AT ROSENGAU are available. Bobby is featured on the former and the latter is his legace post and too early passing. Check out the Amazon sites; you will not be disappointed.

Alex Budsman's album is another from the enlightened Pacific Northwest label . I believe the band is San Francisco based and plays regularly at venue known as 'Jazz At Pearl's'. Another, excellent exploration of contemporary swing arrangements. Don't be anxious over the use of the word 'contemporary'. There are bands that play what is sometimes called 'cutting edge' music where the envelope is pushed and can be disturbing for traditional big band affionados, the ones these pages are directed towards . 'Contemporary' for my purposes means, new arrangements, new composition where a lyrical content is explored and the logic is not hard to follow, just tap your feet. Again obtainable via Amazon and the label as above.

This is a gem you may have missed. Seeing Toshiko live in concert and on video, I find her precise way of a directing her music hypnotic. In charge of every nuance, every phrase one would expect the music to be choppy, but my word it flows and its energy is irresistable if not overwhelming; in a good way. Her approach to ballads, and most are original, is magnificently tender, allowing the emotional content to reach out to you and engage you. Her own orchestra, the stable of top musicians she uses have produced many albums over the years, not one has disappointed. She occasionally acknowledges the music of Japan in a way that will appeal to western ears. Actually for my taste the music presents as out and out BeBop and very difficult to play, but so exciting. Here she collaborates with the German SWR Big Band, one of the finest big bands anywhere, producing a marvellous double CD that no Toshiko fan should be without. Difficult not to over analyse this music, good idea if you ignore my effort to do just that and just go out and buy the thing. Amazon will oblige you, no probs.

Don Ellis gave me a cassette many years ago featuring an octet performance at University Of California Los Angeles. I have been a lover of his big band forever and suspected that this would be special; and it is. There were seven tracks on the cassette. Don wrote the majority of his music in odd time signatures. Most people listen to music with four beats to the bar, (click your fingers on two and four please - the Duke says so) Or perhaps with three beats to the bar. Don's music is often in seven/four, or five/four (think Take Five by Brubeck). The Wounded Bird Label stated issued CD versions of Don's LPs, occasionally with extra tracks. Pieces Of Eight is a release of my UCLA cassette on two CDs with thirteen tracks. For me and any Ellis fan, a must have. There is a version of Milestones on the CD; in 7/4 (count 12,12,123), which reminds everyone what a fine soloist Don was and features a youthful Tom Scott on Sax. I cannot listen to any version of Milestones now without missing the 7/4 time signature, it fits so beautifully. Pete's 7 is an outrageous boogie in 7 which has the audience hooting with laughter.... and it works! Right, collect yours from Amazon I guess, no more pleasurable way of expanding your mind.

http://jevizzusi.site.aplus.net/electricheart/id1.html

This is a DVD documentary concerning the life and career of Don Ellis. Within this DVD are several never before seen or heard performances. This DVD is the result of a extensive research project conducted by producer John Vizzussi. I was glad to provide a little assistance along the way and am proud to be associated with it. It had gathered an award or two along the way and will probably dot the 'is' and cross the 'Ts for you. A must for the Ellis supporters.

Also check out Youtube for a looksee at one or two performances that were found after the film was completed. If you want to buy your first Ellis recording, I would suggest you try 'Shock Treatment' the 'Live At Montreux'. There are quartet albums available by Don, a bit avante garde for some perhaps.

Amazon links are at the bottom of these pages

One of the nicer surprises, all of a sudden there appears to be an explosion of excellent big band CDs involving top LA session musicians e.g. Andy Martin, Bob Summers Bob Sheppard, Joe La Marbera and so on. This one features Marian Petrescu on Piano. The arrangements are by Bill Cunliffe: Kuno Schmid: Claus :Ogerman. The arrangements are appropriate to the Peterson music and the CD swings along fine, and is a worthy addition to anyone's collection. You might like to check the website . They advertise a DVD download, can't see it myself. Alleged to be NTSC (region One). Sometimes, in fact quite often the discs are in fact all region. I do not know what the dvd content is, I suspect an interview with the pianist. Anyhow.... one to get!

UMKC =  University Of Missouri And Kansas City...... etc. THE GATES BARBECUE SUITE apparently a local eatery since 1946 was the inspiration for collection of 7 separate suites. Sufficeth it to say that Bobby Watson has produced a straight ahead jazz big band suite, each section suitable forlistening to separately. Our old friends at CD Baby have it in their catalogue.

Ever even considered these marvellous albums? John Von Ohlen, AKA The Baron is an old school big band drummer. In a previous incarnation with Steve Allee he co-led the John Von Ohlen/Steve Allee Big Band, this group morphed into the BLUE WISP BIG BAND, which is a club in Cincinnatti where the band played regularly. It is amazing that he managed to corral so many great players, from the local area to be in the band. This is a no nonsense mainstream big band with boundless energy to hit you with, in the manner iof the great bands of the 60s and 70's. As an example..... WOODY on his best days when folk like Jake Hannah were in the band. The Blue Wisp band ( and the Allee generation version) have many CDs in their back catalogue. First class arrangements from within the band, everyone memorable. Check out Amazon, pick one, if you survive, pick another you will not be disappointed. These albums are so good they have rarely if ever been on the BBC. Their own label Mopro, owned by a local realtor and his late and lovely wife Helen.

Read his bio at this link. This a big band that thinks it is a small group. Great ensemble supporting muscular solos from the leader, who is likened to Cannon Ball Adderley. This album swings in the old fashioned way, for me reminiscent of latter day NY hard bop. I am assured no-one was hurt during this recording. Strange to relate CDBaby say's if you like Maria Schneider you will love this. Please ignore that, no way is this reminiscent of Ms. Schneider, these arrangements swing mercilessly and are wide open for extemporisation by the soloist. Further away from the esteemed arranger you could not get. This came out of left field to me. I love it.

There is always something about a recording that you don't like, however when there is an exception it often involves Sammy Nestico. Add one of the world's consistently excellent big bands; the German SWR Big Band, and you just know that you are for one helluva ride.  I am in awe of Sammy, a nice guy, with boundless energy that belies his years;  even now he is putting together yet another program for another recording in the near future.  Here he fronts the SWR, sounding relaxed and enthusiastic. Why does this never happen here?  Other people will write more eloquently about this latest album; I will just say that if you have any soul you will love this CD. No nonsense,relentlessly swinging big band that features musicians of international quality in sections or as soloist. Now if you don't mind I will go now to listen to it again. Check out all you favourite suppliers for copies; Amazon will oblige no doubt.

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=30314 .I was completely unaware of this group until one of incendiary CDs popped through my letter box exposing to one of the best big bands around. Powerfully swinging making good use of a superb brass section crowned by a trumpet section that will compete with any, antwhere. Again, modern swing fabulous arrangements. There are three CDs that I have by the band SMILE, WITH FRIENDS LIKE THESE and BLUE HAIRED MOMMA. Atlantic City's finest musicians populate this group. Amazon will supply as will CD Baby. Very much a recommendation.

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=11248  So Many outstanding big bands, so little time. The top big bands in the USA include many  in the military. Members of those bands can be found in some excellent groups on the East Coast including this group, that may just have escaped your notice. Mark Taylor is known as a goto arranger with music being played in many schools and universities and also libraries of other fine big band. As a bonus drop PERFECT MATCH into your PC and it will open up giving you a chance to drop in on a rehearsal, meet the band and so on. I have two CDs by the band, PERFECT MATCH and LIVE AT BLUES ALLEY. Straight ahead, driving big band jazz of the highest order. Usual suppliers, Amazon, CD Universe and so on.

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/review_print.php?id=22841 . A url to visit to get a feel of yet another outstanding big band. Weist, known currently for his  stewardshipo of the University Of North Texas Lab Band One is an outstanding arranger, and with his own band of educators and escapees from some of the best pro' bands about hits us with fine, dynamic contemporary big band arrangements that will tax any musician but still give an audience plenty to chew on and enjoy. A wonderful recording of contemporary big band  jazz at it's best. Available at CD Baby

http://www.stevewaterman.co.uk/pages/about.html Meanwhile here in the UK,  and little closer to the cutting edge,we have the SWJA orchestra, a broader canvas, a more thoughtful listen but for those who like to expand their experience of jazz ensemble listening. Somewhat challenging for 'swing era' listeners but interesting to the jazz intellectual who enjoys new ideas in a large ensemble setting. Amazon have it and others by SWJO available.

http://www.waynenaus.com/ Lovers of Buddy Rich and Woody may wonder where the sideman are. Wayne Naus is one of them. Music with violence, hard hitting swinging jazz, and LIVE too. This is the concert that you leave deaf and exhilerated. A real burner for you. Available from CD Baby and Amazon, the latter, a little more expensive for once.

http://www.srjo.org/................http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=37009Ab . The links will give you all the information you need about this orchestra. Every opportunity is taken by the arrangers to maximise the effects of well written charts on original themes and the libraries of Mingus and Ellington. A more introspective listening experience rather than out and out swing. CD Univrese have copies, as does the original label. At This moment I cannot see it on Amazon UK or CD Baby.

One of the joys of dealing in jazz and big band CDs was being humbled by the genuine gratitude of the musicians when someone showed a practical interest in their projects AND was prepared to market them, send them off to radio stations and so on. I could not get this excellent hard swinging big band. Guest Bill Watrous wails throughout in a style that is almost completely his own. A light embouchure, a slide that is a blur as all the notes escape and saturate the ears of the listener. A total pleasure to have this excellent recording. You can find copies on Amazon and on CD Baby. There is another CD which I know you will enjoy called CAUGHT IN THE WEB. Now a little harder to find but see Amazon has it listed and hopefully may get it in stock again. There is always CD Baby.!!!

A byword for good music in the Columbus Ohio environs. Vaughn's band is notorious for the reading skills of his band. One of the first CDs I had by the band was called SIGHT READING BABY!! I understand that his concerts are notorious for the fact that the band will do concerts which feature new aquisitions and frequently played at first sight. The music comes from many sources, like the Kenton Library, Bill Holman's library and many more. Over the years there have been quite a few albums and each and every one has impressed the heck out of me for that spontaenious feel and the wild audiences. The band includes the best of the local professionals; one source I do know is the OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY,  that under the stewardship of Ladd McIntosh had a music program second to none. I have many of their LPs, each one is a treasured item and many of the players played with Maynard Ferguson and other top bands. Now Vaughn is reticent about producing CDs, but his recordings are available as downloads via  CD Baby.

http://www.westjazzorch.org/  Yet another band that has been gathering awards and excellent review, noticed everywhere but by the BBC!! A knock out, dynamic exhilerating big band. Check out the website above. The CD is available as a download via our old friends CD Baby.

There are two CD in existance by this big band of yesteryear.THE BEST OF TOMMY WATT is on EMI GOLD and WATTS COOKING  is released by Vocalion. Nothing wrong with these musicians of yesteryear and nothing wrong with the sound engineers of the day. The latter is taken from  a number singles, WATTS COOKING an LP and IT MIGHT AS WELL BE SWING. The two CDs overlap a little but between them you will have a fair record of what the band was doing in the 50's or where Ted Heath's personnel were picking up a few pennies. Lots of standards and maybe a few forgotten favourites. danceable or just listenable.... a pleasure.

Los Angeles Musicians royalty populate yet another big band. A fair selection of ex-Bob Florence personnel plus a few who form the nucleus of the Bill Holman Big Band. The arrangements come from the pen of the late Herb Phillips, Mike Barone and more. Principal soloits other than Carl are Bobby Shew, Lanny Morgan, Andy Martin and Bob Summers. Carl Saunders has played with just about every one. He is a fine lead trumpet and has an instantly recogniseable soloing style, so fluent it will take your breath away. This album on the Seabreeze label is to be found on Amazon, CD Universe, just about anywhere.

CAN YOU DIG BEING DUG, a LIVE album, this time a quartet. It will give you a fair idea of the epic quality of his playing. I am currently listening to an octet album - THE CARL SAUNDERS EXPLORATION -THE LOST BILL HOLMAN CHARTS.Here he is joined by Pete (Dynamite) Christleib, Andy Martin, Bob Efford and Sam Most.

This was a very expensive collector's set for quite awhile until the FLARE label decided to process it. This gorgeous lady was and probably still is an actress. She is still with us living outside the industry in LA. You may know her as the chanteuse who popped up acting and singing in the American TV series PETER GUNN. usually backed by Shorty Rogers, Shelley Mann, the Candoli brothers and Victor Feldman. Available on Amazon.........if you enjoyed Julie London, Lola's is a tad more seductive. Heny Mancini backs her on Dreamsville.On Lola Wants You, it is Dean Elliott. The albums were recorded in the late 1950's.

The late and legendary drummer, singer and band leader left us a couple of years ago. We have at least these recording, unfortunately his music, rather like Les Brown's was consumed by fire some time ago. In my opinion Jack was one of the best drummers in the country having a loose swinging style typical of the best American players as well as great crooning chops. His band toured the country all those years ago but did not survive the final trip home due to so disquiet in the ranks! Here again we have the creme de la creme of the British jazz heirachy producing some excellent recordings. This album is taken from the TRIP TO MARS LP an EP (remember those) called PARNELL ON PARADE with the addition of 12 singles. Nice trip down memory lane. The BIG BAND SWING CD overlaps with the previous album, but at the price you are assured of a good selection. There is another Parnell CD that includes Parnel With Vic Lewis.... I have just ordered my copy.... there you go it's Christmas and birthday rolled into one.

I will list his available albums here: WIDE RANGE (CONCORD):ON THE TOWN:LIVE AT THE LIGHTHOUSE:YESTERDAY'S GARDENIAS:TOTALLY LIVE AT CATALINA'S JAZZ CLUB. There is one more CD recorded in 1999 at the Mammoth Lakes Jazz Jubilee, unfortunately it was not, as far as I know, released beyond the festival. Phil Norman is a financier who loves jazz, he is also saxophonist.The burr under his saddle was that he wanted to form a tentet that involved his favourite musicians, he also wanted a unique library. He went for the lead players with the Bob Florence Limited Edition Big Band, plus access to a few more top players as and when reserves were needed. As if he had not invested enough already he did commission a library. The principal arrangers were Bob Florence (he also played piano), Kim Richmond, Roger Neuman, Marty Paich,Tom Kubis, Alf Clausen,Med Flory..........you get the picture. I doubt I have heard a modern small big band swing with such authority. The arrangements give an immediate impression that makes you think you are listening to a bigger group ; clever writing indeed. One of the best examples of this point on any of the CDs is an arrangement on CUBAN FIRE which staggers the listener with it's power. Thank you Kim Richmond for that one. Often the band sounds like Bob Florence's band, in fact he re-wrote some of his big band pieces to fit the tentet. I have been lucky enough to see the band in concert and rehearsal and was present for one of the recordings. You can find these SEABREEZE CDs just about anywhere. The Concord you may have work a little harder for and pay a little more. TOTALLY LIVE AT CATALINA is the last recording I know of. Bob Florence's passing tore the heart out of the band, this was a tribute to Bob who I miss terribly. I gather that there have been concerts after he went but it would be hard to not miss this great musician.

Another outstanding album from Southern California! The leader Ladd McIntosh is a composer an arranger and educator having created great things at Ohio State University all those years ago, his day job now is composing film music. Here on his own label L E M Productions he has produced a program of his own arrangments of standard. I have known his work for many years and had become used to quirky titles and surprising and always entertaining adventures in music. This album TEMPTATION is mostly standards. If you have, in the past enjoyed Francy Boland's Band or the Kenton Orchestra or you have a penchant for dynamic swinging big bands then this is definately for you. . Go to CD Baby and have a listen to the excerpts; the title track or I'M GLAD THERE'S YOU and understand that is the standard throughout. I don't think all the tracks are downloadable but the CD appears available. You've got to have it. Here is an excerpt from a review on Ladd's site. go to

If it is the dynamic, pulsating, foot-stompin’, finger-snappin’, danceable sound of a real 18-piece big band for the 21st Century you’re cravin’, this is the CD for you!"

This album is a labour of love for Terry Vosbein who had access to the University Of North Texas archive of Kenton music and also highlighting new music and rarely recorded music.

I placed this CD in my player with some trepidation due to the mention of Bob Graettinger, not so concerned about Pete Rugolo. Very few listeners enjoy every track on any recording. It is a matter of personal taste of course and I have had real problems with the 'Progressive Jazz' period. Having said that I was very pleasantly surprised to discover the music by Graettinger included some elaborately arranged and rather lovely ballads/interludes as well as several chances to snap my fingers. The nicest experience was to listen to Terry Vosbein's music. Bearing in mind the album's concept; being in the spirit of that Kenton era, Terry Vosbein manages to tell the story in a way that will encourage the new listener to bide a while and be rewarded by hearing new music that is enjoyable. Of course Kenton fans will find this album enlightening and enjoyable.

Marc Myers writes daily on jazz legends and legendary jazz recordings. All aspects of jazz are covered and a newsletter sent regularly - you have an opportunity to subscribe. I know that not too many big bands are featured but, be patient. On the right side of his home page you will see a list of biographies. I would recommend that you read some of them., if not all of them. They are fascinating. You can also search the site, put a name or two in it you will be delighted at the hidden gems.

A classical music label in Germany 'HANSSLER' has a habit of providing a home for some splendid big band recordings. The SWR Big Band seems to have cornered the market in prestigious American guests. This time the old Red Snapper himself DON MENZA, whose arrangements are featured in maybe hundreds of libraries throughout the USA and Europe and beyond I guess. Ex Herman trumpet Don rader is there to throw a few coals on the fire too. A pyrotechnical performance ensues. This really is an album to seek out. Album and MP3 downloads on Amazon. My sort of big band!!

Talking about Menza; this muscular soloist and writer of some of the hottest music music played by the good big bands, not to mention paradoxically some of the most gorgeous ballads, is at it again. This time leading an excellent LA big band and LIVE too. I will just read out the trumpet section! Chuck Findley, Bobby Shew, Don Rader, Ron King, Frank Szabo; it does not get any better! 70 minutes of heat..... Again check out Amazon for copies.

• http://www.petemcguinness.com/bio.htm
• http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/musician.php?id=15116

Two URLs to confirm my opinion that it is an excellent big band CD yet again in the modern swinging style. There are two very nice vocals by by the leader, the rest is as I suggested. Regardless, don't try and dance to this music, you will hurt yourself! Check out the MP3 excerpts on Amazon. Download and CD are available.

All the above is short for the SDR Big Band! You may not be familiar with the previous incarnation of the current SWR Big Band. Erwin Lehn is the leader of a big band that is rooted in the swing era. There are 2 CDs I recommend, one can clearly hear that this band is not interested in re-running old favourites, but is happily and successfullly just pushing the envelope a little; finishing as a first class modern-ish swing orchestra. The arrangements are excellent, the quality of the ensemble is as good as it gets. An exciting big band which introduced me to the late Horst Fischer. Now I am not fond of extreme high register trumpet playing and can never quite understand the whooping and hollering when someone sacrifices tone and intonation to approximate a double 'Z'. Now give me Horst Fischer who does the same thing with a tone that blends with the section and genuinely sends a shiver up my spine.During the course of these two CDs (not a double) he majestically salutes CIRIBIRIBIN, JALOUSEY, STORMY WEATHER, CARNIVAL , GOODNIGHT SWEETHEART, ESTRALITA and so on. No wonder the current SWR is so good.Fabulous swing CDs and Amazon has them.

On the Jazz Compass Label and available from CD Baby, Amazon and CD Universe. The leader has supplied music to Buddy Rich, Bill Watrous and many other top big bands. Thoughtfully written music that is demanding and rewarding for the musicians and exhilerating for the listener. Not too surprising when the usual coterie of players from Southern California get involved. We have the modern master of tasteful high register lead trumpet Wayne Bergeron, Kim Richmond, Bud Shank, Bill Cunliffe and more in attendance. These two separate CDs are good value and a must have for the serious collector. If you enjoy the likes of Herman, Watrous and Rich bands there is more than enough for you here.

While on the subject of the SWR Big Band Big Band. The concept suggested by the title is demonstrated with some fine jazz big band performances using the leadership of Frank Foster, his music and that of Thad Jones. As with all SWR project the band is comnfortable in the setting and delivers fine tight and loose big band jazz. Amazon appears to have plenty of these CDs in stock at the moment so - what's keeping you. You will not be disappointed.

The irreverent or at least certifiable Chubby Jackson, bass player with the Woody Herman Big Band ventured into the studio with a full compliment from band he had played with : Don Lamond, Ernie Royal, Bob Brookmeyer, Al Cohn and so on. The music is from the pen of, among others Manny Album, Sy Oliver, Al Cohn to name but a few. The two CDs off the two original and very collectible LPs are well worth having. Strong mainstream, muscular swinging jazz. You can sense the fun the guys are having with every note. Anyhow the two albums available on Amazon are :CHUBBY TAKES OVER and CHUBBY'S BACK.

Eighteen professional musicians from the best jazz bands of the city of Berlin,
including musicians such as Greg Bowen on lead trumpet and Greg Peters
on alto saxophone. Never fear, this is not another hyperactive arm swinging drummer in a little world of his own. Rather a good post swing era big band acknowledging the era with music from the era; not all Krupa material and not the usual selection one gets with tribute CDs.

Remember I told you how to translate web pages at the top of newsletter.I got my copy via Amazon Germany. Very enjoyable!!!

adrian@jazzaction.co.uk : Jazzaction was set up in 1986 as a joint initiative between Yorkshire & Humberside Arts and Northern Arts. It is publicly funded and serves the North East of England. I would suggest an e-mail to arrange purchase. The CD contains the compositions and arrangements of John Warren, about whom I know little, which is my loss I guess. In this case we have a selection of his original charts played by the VOTN jazz orchestra. The music successfully makes very eloquent lyrical statements that sit comfortably within cliche free backgrounds that are challenging for the ensemble and yet, are not brutalised by the need to be seen pursue the contemporary 'cutting edge' cause. In short this can be listened to and enjoyed by most. Comfortable, tempos and syncopation make the whole album very accessible. This is a commendable JAZZ CD. Where is Humphrey L|yttleton when you need him? Just the sort of package he would play, that you would hear, and be impressed.

Did you miss this one? Arrangements by Bill Holman, Billly May, Nelson Riddle, Shorty Rogers and Gene Roland! Available from Amazon and not too many left! Top studio band of the 50s. Conrad Gozzo, Milt Bernhardt and so on. OH!.... and Maynard Ferguson, expect great lead playing by him instead squeezing out hit and miss high notes.

The biography below is not written by me by the way, but worth a read to understand why Pete is known by many as the 'governor'. If you check out Youtube you will see examples of his playing and that of his remarkable big band. The band has two personae: first of all as a contemporary big band parading music by new writers, and composers and arrangers in this genre. This band bites and his concerts are always accessible musically to anyone who loves the big bands of today. There are excellent big bands about in the UK who use particular arrangers popular at the time. Pete is different and avoids the cliches, but still plays music that swings mightily and is bristling with the finest jazz players.

The other persona involves saluting his hero Buddy Rich, his 'Buddy Rich' band travels regularly around the UK performing Rich's music. Again Pete's personality comes through in that he plays music that Buddy did not play at concerts, maybe only on an album. So again his program is cliche free, well perhaps Channel One Suite or Norwegian Wood excepted. The sobriquet 'governor' is used because technically and musically he is world class, so say his peers internationally and nationally. Never miss the chance to see a concert. If you want proof, check out PLAYING WITH FIRE , THE RIGHT TIME and UPSWING; albums that have a deserved international notoriety.

I think this is a French Big Band, the liner notes are in French but no real detail I can find, even on the 'net. All you need to know is that you can amaze your friends by having an excellent, rip roaring, straight ahead big band playing standards you know by French arrangers. I know not why the band is called MAGNETIC! Rest assured this is a regular line-up of expert, assured and dynamic soloists. Copies available on the the Black And Blue Label via Amazon. There is a note that it is digitally re-mastered; off an LP or an old CD, hard to say, but is definately worth buying

First of all, some DVDs are advertised as being region specific. 0. The ones I mention here are playable region 2, that is UK although mentioned elsewhere as region 1 ie North America. So you are safe buying them.

This is an L.A. label that has produced award winning DVDs of every genre including jazz and big band. I have several of them, and they are class personified.

• The Steve Huffsteter Big Band including Bill Perkins, Buddy Childers and more. Recorded in the round, this group plays Steve Huffsteter's original, thoughtful and exciting arrangements that give us a chance to see Bill Perkins at his finest and most exhilerating. Lots of extras, 5.1. sound and so on, as are the DVDs below, beautiful presentations.
• Emil Richards, Joe Porcaro Big Band, again in the round. This band features: Lanny Morgan, Pete Christleib, Chuck Findley playing some wonderful straight ahead big band arrangements including those of Sammy Nestico. Again, lots of extras.
• The Paul Smith Trio feauturing Paul Smith - Piano, Jim DeJulio- Bass and the amazing Dave Tull on drums. Tull is a must see for his consummate display, well known as a fearsome big band drummer his approach to small group playing is a delight. And Paul Smith, in his 80's I guess, but nobody has told him. Lots of standards, lots of surprises, humour and BOY are these guys having fun. It is a pleasure to be there. Pure magic, the pick of this bunch for me.

Go to the websitebelow check out the lists of jazz and big band DVDs and contact the company by e-mail. They used to supply me in the UK, no doubt they willing to supply anyone.

This album is available via Amazon. A similar concept to the DVD on AIX above but different West Coast Personnel some you may have noticed in the Florence or Holman bands. Thoughtful, beautifully conceived music arranged by 'The Poet' Steve Huffsteter. Thinking man's jazz ensemble music that swings insistantly and accessible.

The definition of PHAT according to the OED is 'Excellent', or if you are talking about a lady, it is 'sexy,attractive'. The word has it's origin in 1970's black slang. Whatever..... this is an excellent big band. Gordon Goodwin who plays all the saxes, piano and writes some of the most popular arrangements in any catalogue today. Ever since I first new him in his California State University Northridge days in the early 80's, his arrangements were being noticed, and showcased beautifully by the CSUN jazz ensemble. If ever you see their albums advertised, I do recommend them. The personel at that time; just about everyone of them became heavy weights in the Los Angeles music community. Anyhow, over the last few years he has had close connections with Disney, that security gave him a chance to put together his own band. He did have another, very good band prior.

Gordon's new arrangements touched a nerve with many musicians and are now played all over the world, but when played by the Phat Band, there is no contest. It is fun, it is dynamic, it is exciting. For me there is an undercurrent of Jones Lewis lurking within a number of his most popular arrangements. I don't think any band swings so joyfully. Wait until you hear SING SANG SUNG!!!The band has caught on on campus,with many concerts before students at universities up and down the land. Now any one of the musicians in the band would command high fees elsewhere, but still they cling to their PHAT band chair. Mind you the company is good . For example on ACT YOUR AGE you have Eric Marienthal, Wayne Bergeron, Andy Martin, Bob Summers and various fugitives from the Holman and Florence bands. Gordon's altruistic attitude as far as school concerts and clinics underpins what a force he is and deserves to be. The albums are easily available now if you don't have them, don't forget, not everyone has access to the information, due to lack of media coverage, especially in the UK . So excuse me if you have heard all this before. Right, here we go: ACT YOUR AGE, GORDON GOODWIN'S BIG PHAT BAND, THE PHAT PACK and XXL. There is one other, BAH,HUMDUCK that owes its concept to the music in A LOONEY TUNES XMAS. Not really my favourite. So if you have trouble finding it don't get suicidal. The others are better than you deserve!!! Just kidding!

Check out Youtube!

The archives are being emptied. I know it is a sign of an era passing, but I don't have to believe it if I don't want to (I think someone said that when Gershwin died - don't quote me I am not sure)! The good news is that gems like this are coming onto the market. Can you remember the days (some of us can) when you came home with 8 minutes or less of music; two tracks on one brittle shellac disc. Or the luxury of making the same trip with a small fragile EP with 15-20 minutes of music.I have fond recall of bringing home my first LP with anything from 32 to 40 minutes of music - magical.

40 tracks on two CDs, a fair chunk of beautiful 50's big band jazz involving the best musicians of the day in the UK who had every right to believe they were among the best on the planet. I have to recommend this from any one of the usual suspects, I know Amazon will oblige.

Who the blazes is Rob Madna? In the UK, I expect that to be a reasonable question.. Formally a maths teacher and later a high school deputy principal. In 1986 he jumped ship and accepted a position at Hilversum Conservatory teaching piano. He also plays trumpet and is an arranger, who was head hunted by Thad Jones but he politely refused because of the satisfaction he was getting in education.

His inspiration came by way of Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Horace Silver and other jazz luminaries. You just may be thinking already that I am talking of music for musicians, technically demanding and so on. Not so..... He talks of Count Basie, and Thad Jones being two of his many sources. So do not be surprised when I say that this 5 CD set is class all the way, a very strong lyrical content and its other preset is a strong swing predisposition.

There are mostly original compositions that will be very acceptable to any listener. Every second of this CD I had the feeling that I was listening to something very special. I think the Jones/Lewis analogy is very potent especially when you note that the arranger leaves lots of space for these tremendous Dutch soloists to stretch. Anyway the package has 5 CDs. All in all a very satisfying collection. Not cheap, but remember there are 5 CDs so the unit cost ain't so bad. Check out Amazon for supplies.

Another classy example of the quality of another Continental big band; a band that never puts a foot wrong. Here I have a single CD with an unexpected concept. This time the rediscovered music of Gil Evans and Gerry Mulligan, this time from that part of Claude Thornhill's library that was supplied by our cool friends above. SPANISH DANCE, YARDBIRD SUITE LOVER MAN and other from the Evans quill. ROSE OF THE RIO GRAHNDE, MAJOR AND MINOR, JOOST AT THE ROOST and more credited to Mulligan. Listen to it and enjoy it; listen to it, think about it and enjoy it and so on many accessible levels of pleasure and fulfulment. Again an Amazon search will find it.

Some may not know that in the 1960's 'Q' risked all financially to take a band dripping with stars into Europe. Iconic concerts followed; the finances were stretched to a point that it became a 'hand to mouth' existance for the musicians. Over time this may have been the harbinger of American musicians to take root eventually and become part of the Clark/Boland and Francy Boland big bands as well as constant guests in other bands. So many concerts; so many performances recorded; and quite a few appeared on obscure LPs eventually becoming collector's items. Recently one or two have appeared on CDs. This set of 4 discs covers all bases, just about every performance is here. Buy it and you may duplicate some that you have; check the link above for personnel and tracks. Personally I could not resist the thrill of knowing that these great Jazz Big Band recordings were now on my shelf, so what a duplication here and there!

Oh! and re-mastering is effective too.If you want to compare prices, CD Universe has this product, Amazon USA (not UK at the moment) it has copies too.

Two Things: Check out Amazon for DVDs by this era of Quincy Jones' big band recordings. They are excellent fidelity, in black and white and, despite rumours are Region Free. I have checked!

Once upon a time a famous LA jazz vibist was sorting through some clutter when he came upon boxes of tapes that had been long forgotten. Rather as Benny Goodman reacted to finding some live , forgotten recordings of thirties broadcasts, our friend was blown away by the way the tapes had survived. They were played and offered for editing and eventually appeared on a series of LPs on the Contemporary label. Much rejoicing in the jazz community, dancing in the streets and harassing the record company for more recordings. This was a chance to hear the actual late fifties, early sixies big band .The Candolis, Holman, Porcino,Pete Jolly, Mel Lewis, Joe Maini, Bob Enovoldsen; all there and shouting. These live performances in Hollywood are the most exhuberant, dynamic performances of any jazz big band anywhere. One bonus I nearly forgot, the albums were all recorded by the legendary Wally Heider which will ensure fidelity. All the solos are loud and clear due to Wally putting a switch on the floor in front of all the soloists so that when they stood up, they hit the switch and the mike was switched on..... SIMPLE!

1. DREAM BAND
2. SUNDOWN SESSIONS
3. FLYING HOME
4. MAIN STEM
5. THE BIG CAT
6. ONE MORE TIME

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Just to bring it all to life; Terry Gibbs Book GOOD VIBES will go well with the albums. Gibbs has been there, done that, played alongside the best since the forties. So the read will be informative, surprising, candid and laugh out loud funny.

http://www.fatchopsbigband.com/?page_id=11

http://www.matthewford.info/

In the good old days, you switched on BBC Radio Two and you listened to recordings by the finest vocalists in the world, dipping into the Great American Songbook. Oodles of personality and a confident way of phrasing these wonderful songs, so the audience get the maximum effect that comes with learning your craft,.Working small clubs, less than salubrious venues with, often, below average musicians. Now you turn up with your sound engineer and a track that took 3 months to record, and off you go, miming. I know that whenever a vocalist appears locally, I am going to have to be forgiving as they are likely to be, or try to be some well known vocalist. Think how many Sinatra Clones are out there, how their frequent appearances are becoming a little trying. Please go to SPOTIFY or I-Tunes and find Matt Ford and the FATCHOPS BIG BAND - feeling good. Here we have a handsome man (so my wife says) in his smart DJ, prowling the stage, engaging everyone in the audience, singing the songs you want to hear. His personality is overwhelming, his interpretation is faultless and possibly as impactful as the Jack Jones, the Bobby Darins and Tony Bennetts of this world. MATT FORD is no impressionist. He has absorbed the influence of the greats and added an awful lot of MATT FORD to the mix.You can download this CD from I-Tunes and hear it on Spotify. The FATCHOPS BIG BAND is an award winning  JAZZ big band of professional and semi-professional musicians that has been in existance for some years. A band of very high standard that guests joy working with. They are backing Matt on this CD and swinging like crazy. Check Matt's site and if there is one of his many concerts near you, give yourself a treat. As well as doing concerts around the UK he has performed with the JOHN WILSON ORCHESTRA and the BBC Big Band.

I have always been impressed by the work of arranger Alf Clausen. I first heard his work played some of the top University Jazz ensembles in the USA, so glad to have found that he is still about and doing. He seems to have cornered the market with TV music, particularly THE SIMPSONS. Check the link below .This is one of the best examples of modern swing music. Think Bob Florence in the 80's perhaps, in fact most of the musicians are ex-Florence sidemen; and it shows. An absolutely excellent CD which will have you watching for the next release. I love it! This would have been in my catalogue if I were still operating as a distributor, with customers gagging for a copy! Check out Amazon please. Have a Google if there is a supply problem.

Conducted by Pete Rugolo & WillIam Russo. Not a new album but an album that deserved to be better known. Black belt Kenton collectors will have it, others will wonder why they did not know of it. After all it has been floating about in the ether since around 1987. Perhaps it is indicative of its profile that I bought my stock from Paul, on barely lit car park in Pasadena at 1am one morning an eccentric guy. I paid in cash while checking out the police were not watching me!

Paul Cacia has a reputation as a producer and invariably his projects are outstanding. High production values including excellent engineering. On top of that he is known as a trumpeter who can boast an exceptional range and a fabulous sound. Some legendary Kenton alumni pop up to play and to provide commentary in tribute to Kenton. Let's see, who is on the album? Konitz,Sheldo, Fontana, Rogers. Shearer, Cooper, should I go on.... you get the picture. For me there are standout tracks; possibly the best rendition of 23 Degree Nth & 82 Degrees West I have heard, I love the urgent but not hurried tempo (conducted by composer arranger Bill Russo). Lonesome Road featuring Cacia's then wife, the delicious Janine Cameo and Cacia himself in super extreme mode, playing What's new. Copies getting thin on the ground, check out Amazon for copies. As a Kenton fan, you will love this album.

Seattle is an important centre for our kind of jazz. Jim Cutler is a flag bearer of some repute in the area; an outstanding saxophonist and arranger. This album is his first toe in the water as far as big band is concerned. Interesting to note, a member of the band is one Daniel Barry, Danny is co-owner of one of the best sources for sheet music I have experience, a superb varied catalogue that features music from high school level to the most sophisticated professional quality heck their catalogue MARINA MUSIC SERVICE at http://www.marinamusic.com/

Back to the plot! Jim Cutler's band is yet another example of top class modern mainstream swing music. Really, there are so many bands of quality about, it is difficult not to repeat yourself. Trust me these guys are excellent.

Monster personnel on this excellent modern mainstream big band. Most of these guys were playing in the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Big Band and one or two in Mulligans band; so no rubbish there. The guest is Marvin Stamm on trumpet, the arrangements are by Marv' Stamm and Jack Cortner. This is a heavyweight grown up big band for hard swinging jazz aficionados, the music is a mixture of standards and originals. http://www.spotify.com/uk/new-user/  Go to Spotify, and if you don't have an account, set one up and you can preview whole tracks of just about any album. I have recently discovered it and find it very helpful. All legal by the way.

http://www.brusselsjazzorchestra.com/ This double CD is a thing of beauty. I find that when some musicians try to find a new way of expressing themselves as musicians or composer arrangers, they forget the listener and think only of the musician. This results in technically challenging music that purposely avoids, what they would call cliches and often lyrical content for an audience to connect with. Trumpeter Bert Joris manages to satisfy all our needs. The arrangements are beautifully crafted, challenging the musicians to play in that tight and loose way that I love, so I can relax and enjoy. whether it is a ballad or an uptempo adventure. Years ago I would not have given this set the time of day, but now I joy in the quality of writing and playing. Amazon has copies, you can get them from the Joris site below. Reemember that this a double CD, so the price won't seem too bad.

Now available!!

Just in case you were discouraged by what may have been a mis-print; the CD will not cost £19.00 but £9.99 post free..... that's better is it not? Now if you go to Youtube you will see some live Disney video of music from the CD. You may notice lots of young people in the audience which is very welcome. A bit of show biz at the beginning but this razz'm'tazz is indicative of Gordon's imperitive to bring the music to a wider audience. I expect sales of his arrangements will go through the roof; everyone playing them and wondering why they don't sound like the PHAT BAND, just check out the personnel and you will have the answer.See you later, please come back soon.

Just in case some collectors have lost touch with the output of Miller recordings because they don't belong to a club or to a Miller or Swing forum on the net, or they used to rely on Alan Dell or other radio presenters for information, may I offer a suggestion? You may not be aware of two labels that exist to satisfy your needs.

See the Avid Link Below. Some of you will remember those remarkable AEF recordings that amazed you many years ago. Remember WOW - I DID NOT KNOW THOSE RECORDINGS EXISTED!!!!! The LP Fidelity and the eventual CD box fidelity were a joy. Well what was not known then to everyone was that there were many unreleased and archived recordings just waiting to be cleaned up, digitized and put onto CD. Avid obliged; if you go to the Avid catalogue via this link you may be surprised at the selection. I mean it when I say that I did not realise just how these recordings could be, I expected scratchy recordings which may have satisfied the 'black belt must have everything collector. What do I get is remarkablem crystal clear recordings in abundance which demenstarted just how fabulous this band was.

This 2LP album on one CD release is available from VOCALION see link below. Now, about Sam Fonteyn! What can I say, do you remember rushing to buy orchestral LPs that showed of your stereo?  Well, Sam Fonteyn obliged with, shall we say easy listening music, cut down big band and simple orchestral arrangements. Well accept that and buy the album to listen to Kenny Clare and Ronnie Stephenson and a superlative star blessed big band to die for featuring most the Heath guys and the er's top session musicians including the arrangements of Stan Tracey. A fabulous big band album which has long been a collector's item. This LP is not wall to wall big band drums, we are talking about two drummers complimenting the music, providing a classy foundation for the band to swing on. Occasional flurries of drums are a delight. Highly recommended in spite of the company the latter music keeps on the CD. But thank you VOCALION for your efforts in  making this gem available again.

A vibrant University scene and a history of musical excellence is what Ohio offers.Not surprisingly this CD, the musicians, the music selection and so on cannot faulted. A toe tapping dynamic performance will please anyone who likes this era's approach to swing music. First rate soloists playing off excellent arrangements and..... the actual recording quality is impressive too; jumps out of the speakers. This is the way to record drums by the way. Well tuned drums have a resonance that adds life to any performance, the excellent drummer on this album must be delighted that his good work is not compromised by a pop loving engineer. CD BABY will oblige if a copy is wanted. I recommend it heartily.

Two people can make or spoil a performance. One is a hyperactive 'show and tell' drummer who rather than support an ensemble sees it as an opportunity to pull the focus of a listener. The other is the whooping and hollerin' of an audience while a would be lead trumpet turns purple going for high notes that have no relation to what the rest of the group is playing, and the sound is thin and, to me, ugly, and avoids blending with section quite successfully.

Wayne Bergeron is the antithesis of this. His sound is big, it is accurate, his range is extraordinary and crowns any trumpet section. Because his technique is faultless no doubt he will sustain this level of performance for many years.

He is just about the first choice lead, and soloist in any band on the West Coast. He has two albums as leader. The musicians involved are the cream of the crop, the arrangers include TOM KUBIS, BILL LISTON, GORDON GOODWIN. Two of the most thrilling albums you could wish for.

We are reminded of his talent as a soloist and, quite frankly lead playing exhilerating. Also check out the late George Graham's Big Band on Amazon if you want more. You will find these albums as downloads and as full presentation CDs on Amazon and probably just about anywhere. By the way, if the ensemble looks familiar, check out the band's of Bob Florence and Bill Holman. WE are talking first division here.

....... in Paris Live, once on the Europa One Label and now on Laserlight. This was released in 2002 on CD. I had a double LP but, I think I was disappointed in the fidelity, I know something bothered me; perhaps I have grown up a little. Anyhow on a hunch I invested in this double CD set the other day. BINGO! The fidelity is excellent or I have better equipment now. I am stunned by the way the pyro-technics of this stunning outfit leap out of the speakers. These CDs are not about in numbers so grab them before they disappear, these are historic jazz big band performances featuring the great and the good playing with abandon, lost in this great charts and communicating with you in exhilerating and spontaenious fashion. There is some confusion about CDs involving the same band at Ronnie Scotts earlier in 1969. I have noted several reviews that can't seem to separate the two concerts. I am talking of the one in Paris. You may just Google the wrong disc! I am not saying the other is not excellent too, but this one jumped off the shelf to me.

http://www.burghausenjazz.com/bbb/bbb.html :Since I was introduced to this German Big Band, I have never been disappointed with what they do, but I must admit this particular CD is their finest hour to date. Sometimes I find that the best way to describe a group without getting into reams of text is to compare it with a band that may be better known, such is the way the way these projects often fail to get the exposure they deserve.Right from the start of BLUE TRUTH I was immeditately moved to check who wrote the arrangements. It was the leader. Imaginative, yet urgent modern swing music. The CDs are available from Amazon as discs or downloads.

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Swing Fans should consider having yet another recording by this chameleon of a big band that decided to become a outstanding swing band for this CD. This is not one of those cold , perfunctory tributes to the era but a spirited demonstration of what swing is and was all about. 22 tracks featuring well known swing favourites from Miller to Brown, from Herman to Dorsey and more. German stellar soloists and leaders in their own right:Paul Kuhn, Max Greger and Deiter Reith all contribute to the pleasure of listeninbg to this album. Available from Amazon UK and Germany, if they run out in the UK.

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A rockin' big band if ever I heard one. Recorded in 1971 I think this album pre-dates the more notorious album 'LIGHTNING'. The first very attractive feature is that is is 'live. Secondly the personnel is mouth watering, including Chuck Findley, Slide Hampton, Don Menza, Herb Geller being the international names and the creme de la creme of European players. The concept of the selections is around and about some of the better popular songs of the era. You know the sort no-one is bothered take trouble over in this musically immemorable time. The good ones last!

Arrangers include Menza and Bill Holman. To obtain it you can go to I-Tunes, Amazon and probably a few other places. The downloads are very reasonable. You can buy the CD however. I have seen two suggested prices; new at £99.00 and previously owned at £50 pounds. I now have a download as the LP has de-materialised somehow. A simple GOOGLE search on the album will give you most of the detail you want.

The second big band album by the late Klaus Weiss, recorded in 1984, The arrangements are by: Bill Holman,Francy Boland, Bora Rokovic, Don Menza, Bob Mintzer and Rob Pronk. The band features Greg Bowe, Don Rader, Don Menza, Jiggs Whigham, Bobby Burgess, Herb Geller and more......While the previous album featured some of the best popular music of the 70's within excellent arrangements; this generation of the band features today's top arrangers providing a showcase for the music of today's top arrangers, love Bill Holman! The price for CDs, previously owned is very , very inexpensive. I reckon once these are gone, you will find prices very silly indeed. Rememebr at the top of my sire are instrcution how to use foreign language site. I buy quite a lot from Germany via the German Amazon site and have never been let down.

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I have been asked how I manage to make the CDs I (legally) download more decorative. I will let you know the software I use, nothing to stop you using other software. I Use Microsoft Publisher which is within the Microsoft Office Suite. I have created a blank template which gives me the facility to design a 4.7" by 10" blank sheet, this when carefully folded will fit nicely inside a slimline single CD case. Usually sold in boxes to 20 or 40, not expensive at all. When you download a CD from I-Tunes, often an image of the cover appears bottom left. Right click and copy. Go to your template and using the add image menu, 'CTRL V' or paste the image to the template. Move the image to the top left of the template and drag the bottom right corner to place it on the left of the template, that is your front cover. You will probaly see an 'add text' menu, use it to create a text box on the right of the template. Now you have choices. You can either type in details, tracks, personnel, whatever you want. Using the 'format' menu at the top of the page you can colour the background, you will see options. OR, you can do what I sometimes do which is find some details on the 'net, copy them CTRL C and paste CTRL V them in the text box. Grab the controls on the text box to make it fit any way you want in the text box. Save it, call it a template and use it every time you want another by blanking the work on the original, or you can create a new one every time. These look good using cheaper glossy photo paper, or you can use plain paper; up to you! If you cannot find an image, design one or take a digital photo of an album cover and copy and paste that. Some images on the 'net are low resolution and pixilate very quickly so try and find higher resolution pics, or ensure your photo is at least 92 dpi. I use White label CDRs and a CANON IP4700 to print images on the disc, very simple to do, again watch your resolution, or you can just put printing on and no pictures. I now treat my efforts with more respect. Scribbling details onto a CDR or a piece of paper does not make me feel I have something to show people. This the CD looks good within my collection; I feel as if I own something now. Hope this helps.

I am trying to concentrate on writing a little about this band but having great problems as it is playing in the background. The trouble with finding so many good bands out there is that sometimes you run out of ways to express your pleasure; and with that sometimes you credibility suffers. So I have to remind you, I buy all these CDs and take advantage of the Croydon Seer, my resident Guru. No free CDs, no sponsorship.

Whatever the TJO plays you are instantly comfortable with it whatever it's mood. Consistantly one of the most exciting and joyous discovery for me and I hope they get their support back home. One can fall into the trap of comparing everything with bands in Southern California, or New York when most of them would be delighted to strike gold at every concert and recording session as the TJO seems to. This is a peerless example of the TJO at it's best an outstanding modern swing big band . AND GET THAT BRASS SECTION....WOW! Available at CD Baby and eventually Amazon I guess.

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How can I describe this? There will be a smile on your face throughout. 18 History makers in one room , having fun, at ease with their talent, loping through some jazz classics and unable to disguise their talenT and pleasure at being together. A double CD that was an RCA release and is now on FRESHSOUNDS.A joyful celebration. Billy Butterfield,Buck Clayton, Rex Stewart,Dicky Wellls, Milt Hilton, Vic Dickenson and more strutting their stuff through big band jazz classics like Swingtime In the Rockies, Blues On Parade,Parade Of the The Milk Bottle Caps, Skyliner, Celerery Stalks At Midnight. Check this gem out you will have fun listening. These guys made history, it won't happen again!

In 1957, a boozy reunion no doubt, under the direction of Rex Stewart.All that applies to the BIG 18 apply to these guys. Many of the same names are involved. Here are SUGARFOOT STOMP, KING PORTER STOMP, HONEYSUCKLE ROSE all in decent fi'. A lovely tribute to Fletcher.

I know that there are many moments, many performances that define the swing era. I have just been reading about this band and felt that perhaps the band should have a larger profile. I have inserted a Youtube video clip below to emphasise my point. The darlings of the collegiate crowds in the thirties, beautifully turned out, but the critics seem worried that not enough stellar jazz players were in the band.

The band spent a lot of time rehearsing so that their perfomances would appear exciting and effortless. Beautifully balanced programs too, alternating swing numbers with well chosen and well performed ballads. I can't find anywhere that they meant to be a jazz band.

The slightest research will reveal there were excellent soloists in the band and they were featured but the band's strong point was it's precision. I must admit that that is part of the reason that I have so much time for the band. Too many bands today concentrate so hard on being precise that somewhere the soul gets lost.

I noticed when I visited the INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF JAZZ EDUCATORS CONFERENCE and the N.A.J.E. years ago, that college band directors could be the worst offenders. Tight and loose should be the name of the game.

Just in case some have forgotten about the band, may I suggest some CDs that are available.There is a two CD Set recorded in 1958/9 that revisit many of the era's old favourites SOUNDS OF THE GREAT BANDS VOL 1 AND VOL 2. on the COLLECTABLES label. MORE SOUNDS OF THE GREAT SWING BANDS 'ORIGINAL HIT ARRANGEMENTS' on the ERIC label. ERIC produced another SWINGING SOUNDS OF THE GREAT BANDS CD featuring original arrangements by everyone from Goodman to Crosby to Barnet and more. Finally GLEN GRAY AND THE SWINGING DECADE on Collectables. Anyhow these are 1960 recordings from the forties, not the usual selections either. Apart from these star laden studio band recordings there are a number discs from the 30's worth a visit. I had to get them all over a period of time..... irresistable. Go a huntin' guys and gals; fun to be had.

Possibly my favourite Goodman CD. A double CD by the way. Bill Savory recorded many of the broadcasts on the air by Goodman in the thirties. The fabled recordings of B.G. at Carnegie Hall created a lot of fuss in the fifties being discovered in a cupbard by one of Goodman's children. I gather Savory took them to Benny who was knocked out by the fidelity and the quality of the band; a revelation. That's why these recordings were put out, and a good thing too. I think engineers have sweetened the applause a little , apart from that, a superb recording. Watch for a version of CARAVAN in Sing Sing Sing mode. This recording is available as a download, or as a double CD. Don't forget to check UK and USA Amazon for copies.

To many she is inseparable from her partner Louis Prima, and known for their cabaret act in Las Vegas. Jump Jive and Wail, the genre, with Keely occasionally coming front and centre and seemingly exploding out of character with some swing song or a heart tugging ballad. A quote from Frank Sinatra after he heard MY WAY on the KEELY SINGS SINATRA CD: "Injun, when did you start singing like that ?" She responded " FRANK I ALWAYS SING LIKE THAT, YOU JUST DON'T LISTEN". Dean Martin and SAMMY DAVIS gave her the sobriquet THE FEMALE FRANK SINATRA.

I am moving into heresy now: 'there are times when I am thinking she is at least his equal! Of course there had to be a Sinatra first, setting a style and standard - I KNOW THAT.

I believe she was around 70 years when she recorded this aforementioned CD. She used familiar arrangements and was backed by an orchestra that would have had Riddle, May et al, purring with delight. Don Menza is credited with the arrangements alongside Dennis Michaels and Billy May.. I find listening to this CD an emotional experience, given her years, there is no way you can expect a performance as perfect and as exciting as it is on this Concord CD. Her phrasing is immaculate, the emotion palpable. All this, and why are we not hearing the music on radio. Granted some may have seen her relatively recent appearance on Letterman, but why OH why do we not hear her on our radios (rhetotical question). It gets worse!!! KEELY SWINGS BASIE STYLE. Heavens here is another gem Similar band, usual suspects, the heavyweight muso's from LA with Menza and company doing their thing. Explosive, tear ducts working overtime these are brilliant albums from whatever standpoint, be it arrangements or vocal prowess. You would be be amazed; I have been at meetings in the company of fans and occasionally musicians who do not know this lady except as a foil for Louis Prima.I humbly suggest that you trawl the 'net, first going to Amazon, and listen to excerpts and buy these albums. If you have any soul you will then buy some of her past recordings BE MY LOVE, THE ESSENTIAL CAPITOL COLLECTION, SWING YOU LOVERS and the two-fer POLITELY and SWINGIN' PRETTY. I suggest you get the Sinatra and Basie Tributes first up!

CLOSE HARMONY that is! Something that we never seem to hear any more. I know there are groups that feature close harmony and sing popular and swing style songs. Today there is a difference FOR ME! Technology is the difference, because they can do it, the engineers dabble, they multi-track, they have two or more layers of the voice tracks to give the sound body, the backing is similarly engineered a section at a time (fear of not being perfect). Put it all together and although you can hear a close harmony group, you must notice it sounds too perfect almost a mechanical efficiency. It probably cannot be genuinly performed LIVE so we are expected to applaud people miming and a recording that was made more than a year ago.

Save your money, go home and listen to the CD. Now listen to THE CLARK SISTERS and their DOT CD: SING SING SING. You bet they did this live and on many occasions all those years ago. The CD sounds real, warm and the harmonies natural and as precise and as dynamic as real people can be after lots of rehearsal. AND THEY SWING. On this CD they re-visit swing standards and vocalise wordlessly as well as using the lyrics.

There is joy in the music. Of course they are not the only close harmony group. They all have the same basic quality in choice of repertoire and the sheer superb surefooted way they work the lyrics, key changes, dynamics. There are many good things escaping from dusty archives now, all deserve to be heard. We have the CLARKE SISTERS and THE KING SISTERS and many more. You can go further back to the 30's and enjoy THE BOSWELL SISTERS they have very primitive technology at their disposal and still produce perfectly balanced, in tune performances that will make you smile. No way are those you hear about today who are technically adjusted to produce, for them, perfect performances and that means perfect intonation, in short not reproducable live. All the strutting and posing, legs akimbo is constructed as a diversionary tactic.

I have only mentioned a couple of close harmony groups, and females at that. All the old time male groups worked just as hard with reproduceable performances: THE FRESHMEN, FOUR ACES, THE HI LOS and so on. I know that latter used multi-tracking but somehow they did not lose the warmth of a genuine reproduceable performance. For all the above reasons I love the entertainment of the Andrews Sisters too..... sorry girls I got carried away.

I have to get this off my chest, Buddy Rich used to say when a request is shouted from the audience. "It's my band, I decide what I am going to play". Well, this is my blog and I decide....! I belong to discussion forums that are involved with every jazz genre. Within these forums you will see endless discussion over some less than trivial detail concerning long deceased personalities. Many of the contributors are influential people who have an opportunity, and an audience that should be informed about the many releases of CDs and DVDs produced by hard working musicians at considerable cost, that demonstrate that big bands are alive and well, and they are working their butts of to keep the genre cooking. I have no problem with lauding the pioneers, without them where would we be? But a balance should be struck and every opportunity should be taken to remind collectors that good music is happening out there today despite the z-list celebrity preoccupation in the media. Jazz isn't music just played by dead people.

It is as if the band was poised at the top of a very steep incline and were pushed; starting to roll down gathering pace, energy, dynamics and intensity. I am so impressed with this JAZZ big band from Philadelphia. I am reminded of of N.Y. days when Rudy Van Gelder was recording all those Blue Note albums, many iconic moments spoken of the cogniscenti. The sometime relentlessly swinging 'hard bop' approach of the band and in the second half of the CD, the cutting edge style of the band is to the fore. You would have to think of the Mingus aggregation if you are looking for a comparison or perhaps fairly recent Brookmeyer or McNeeley. Check the band out on Youtube. Summary: contemporary big band that is sometimes mind expanding in it's free-er sections; serious stuff but fascinating. Check out Youtube.

Thought some of you swing fans might appreciate a reminder concerning one of my favourite big bands, one that was dedicated to presenting the public with good music, beautifully arranged with enough fine swinging section work,and jazz solos to keep folk happy.

See a few reviews above this where I have posted a Youtube excerpt which reminds one of, or introduces some to a band that seems to have been lost in the shuffle. These tracks where recorded with an all star band in 1957. NO NAME JIVE is there with other Gray favourites. Within the band are favourite performers fr4om the 40's and some top West Coast Session players. Conrad Gozzo, Ted Nash, Gus Biconal, Mannie Klein, Shorty Sherock, Babe Russin all conspire to creat a very worthy, very enjoyable LP now CD. Roll the carpet back or sit back and enjoy. I may have said before, lots of archives are being plundered to make room for what passes for music nowadays. Albums like this will not be about forever. Amazon have copies.

An album on Carmel records which is getting very hard to find and will appeal to those who like to kick back and have an in-tempo dream, wallowing in those great sounds of yesteryear. What attracted my interest was the two arrangers in this Washington based big band. Pianist Dave Wolpe who has been providing quality listenable and danceable arrangements to many big bands on both sides of the pond for years; good jazz chops too! his catalogue includes many excellent jazz charts too. Mike Crotty ex-arranger and saxist with the legendary AIRMEN OF NOTE can be quite elusive but suddenly appears providing arrangements for this band that includes musicians from the various service big bands that are in that area. So we get outstanding musicianship, excellent arrangements that are very acceptable to dancers and those who like easy listening music. Lots of standards and new arangements.. 16 tracks including four vocals by Barbara Strang. NOT a jazz album but a very worth easy listening D. Worth seeking, I have only found copies with Amazon USA at the moment.

http://www.clintashlock.com/ The album title and maybe the name of the band may just have some people not bothering to listen. There must be some who, because nothing strikes them as familiar or safe may overlook what could be a great listening experience. Don't ignore the CLINT SHLOCK BIG BAND please. This is an excellent contemporary swinging jazz big band, using Clint Ashlock's arrangements. Amazon will save you a few pennies by offering downloads, CD Baby will sell you the CD. Don't forget my advice above about making decent presentaions of your downloads

Now these are jazz albums on the DAZZLE label. What can I say? On HOLD Hess seduces the listener with music could be happening involving an all star big band in New York in the 50s, so involved with the listener be that he will 'go with flow' finding himself listening to music more adventurous than he would normally go. A magnificently recorded program of modern jazz arrangments that suggest the edge of reason, but they are only kidding. Each soloist seems to have the imagination and creativity of the jazz history makers, so assured and BOY those arrangements. This superb Pennysylvanian tenor player displays a different persona on INTO THE OPEN. The music is a tad more experimental , this time the small group modern jazz heart of the band is a little more assertive. Somehow Hess does not lose my interest, hanging on is a worthwhile experience for me, shades and only shades of later Brookmeyer or McNeeley are there, but never displaying those sharp edges than can occur. For the more thoughtful listener this is rewarding experience. Amazon will help you as will CD Baby.

At last I have my copy, luckily I have seen and known Gordon for sometime having seen his playing with California State Universy Northridge Jazz Ensemble, under the directorship of Joel Leach, with his own first band during a modest earthquake in Westwood LA, with the Louie Bellson Bellson Big Band.

CSUN had a reputation for the high quality of students leaving and making names for themselves in the industry. Within all his obvious talent, he was that of being a marvellous arranger and I would advice any band director who does not have any of his earlier charts, to check them out now. Hard to play, but infinately enjoyable for an audience; the band always has a smile on its face.

Recently he has been releasing regular albums with his own BIG PHAT BAND. Definition of 'PHAT' is cool.'Bout right!!! His latest offering, just released, is THAT'S HOW WE ROLL. The usual suspects are present, Bergeron, Martin, Summers and so on . The music is fun, it is funky and the soloists brilliant. No doubt the arrangements will be appearing in band libraries at universities in short order.

I have a couple of personal comments about the programming. I wonder how much further the 'WABBITS' theme can go. Most collectors will know that for the last few CDs he has produced quite joyful arrangements inspired by the Bug Bunny Cartoons, very very popular and damned hard to play. The current tribute HUNTIN' WABBITS (GET OFF MY LAWN) is a relentless 'two beat' opus (count one: two, one two). I am not a musician so excuse me if my description is not technically correct. This beat devolves to equally insistant swing sections. Clever writing and an immaculate performance. TAKE SIX , a close harmony vocal group are on one track. Difficult to say what the standout tracks are, but nostalgia directs me towards RHAPSODY IN BLUE as a closer. Now available via AMAZON.

Guest vocalists Helen Ward and Helen Forrest. All you swing fans will remember the mannered swing arrangements created by Larry Clinton which graced the libraries of Glenn Miller, the Dorseys and more. FLARE RECORDS are making it their business to make availablevocalists and bands that peaked in the late thirties and early forties. You remember THE DIPSY DOODLE of course and the way he created credible swing music from the popular classic. This particular album was recorded in 1950 and 1957, so the fidelity is good and the music, well, timeless. A lovely piece of nostalgia. Have a look at the website and cast your mind back to that glorious era.

I have recently bought one or two CDs from this Japanese website, see below. The service has always been commendable and the catalogue very interesting indeed. The speciality of the house is out of print classics in jazz and indigenous japanese albums including Nobou Hara And The Sharps And Flats. A fair proportion of the albums are very reasonably priced. There are a few that with postage may cost £20 and over. The one I can recommend that I have bought in the last few weeks: TOSHIKO AKIYOSHI IN SHANGHAI recorded around 2003 according to the personnel details. Featuring Lew Tabackin this is the US big band.

http://www.woundedbird.com/

Commendably this label is legally reproducing important albums of all genres, on CD. This particular concert, recorded live in Shanghai around 2003, is not a re-issue but the only available recording of this concert. I suppose the label is on a tight budget and by selling direct they can maintain reasonable margins and continue doing what they do. This is probaly the reason why the company will nor, or cannot sell outside the USA. I am sure the black belt connector in the USA or in the EU will find a way through friends etc. Well worth the nother, typical Akiyoshi fare.Outstanding bebop oriented arrangements exposed by yet another collection of the finest players and yet not the usual suspects. You ought to consider getting this and having a peep at the rest of the catalogue.

Shorty Rogers directing Al Porcino, Pete Candoli, Conte Candoli, Ray Triscari and Ollie Mitchell (trumpets); Harry Betts, Dick Nash, Kenny Shroyer and Bob Enevoldsen (trombones); Bill Holman, Bud Shank, Richie Kamuca, Chuck Gentry and Paul Horn (reeds); Pete Jolly (piano), Mel Lewis (drums) and Red Norvo or Gene Estes (vibes). Don Fagerquist (trumpet) and either Barney Kessel or Howard Roberts (guitar) are featured in a small group ("The Giants"). Using my I-Tunes to scope some of the jazz on internet radio, I chanced upon this album among the enjoyable music featured. I rushed to my collection and realised this was one Rogers I did not have. Fortunately, as the CD versions of the album can command high prices there were a couple of chances on Amazon to download. I think mine was around £3.50. Now it is esconsed within my Ipod treasure chest car listening. Big band fans will note the the band's configuration. This is a regular big band line-up and the personnel is the stuff of legends. Usually with Shorty, one expects the lighter swinging touch and many solos from the 'Giants' within. There are those who MUST have a big band and except nothing less than 16 men a-swinging. Relax guys this is a superb swinging big band in the Basie style with fulsome arrangements supporting some fine soloing. Bill Holman is there. Do you realise he is 84 years old as I write! Life without Willis is un-imaginable.

Either I am particularly lax in keeping up with new and interesting releases of this has just slipped under the radar. These two albums did just that. They are probaly doing well in Washington where this initiative seems to hail from. Please think Gene Krupa Sextet, remember thos excellent sides on Columbia Clef in the 50's? The 'FLYING' CD actually features the music, not slavishly copied, but new complimentary excursionS. Arrangements by Charlie Shavers and so on; 19 tracks no less. Four vocal tracks that have that era all over them . The vocalist is Brooks Tegler, who happens to be an exception swing style drummer too. Don't get me wrong this is not a drummer showcase. A couple of all to brief solos indicate the Krupa influence although Tegler's chops have the advantage of the way drums and kits generally have developed over the years. The second CD is very similar in line-up and the choice of music, I must admit may not be off the CLEF recording but the mood and quality is identical. If you want a rest from the bombast of your big band CDs, this is an excellent substitute. Fast becoming a firm favourites with me I will have no problem in recommending them to one and all. Copies at Amazon and CD Baby .

The demon barber SWEENY TODD begat a musical: FLEET STREET. Terry Vosbein heard the music and his creative juices started to flow. His KNOXVILLE JAZZ ORCHESTRA has similar instrumentation to the Kenton Innovations Orchestra and one must say that it shows. This is not a slavish homage to Kenton; doors were opened by SK, and Vosbein appears to have recognised in the music, the possibility of creating his own Kenton inspired take. The 'wall of sound' approach is hinted at but to me, the music is not overly strident or bombastic, it does swing however; T.V. never loses the swing and lyrical imperative. The orchestra swaggers through some awesome charts that really test the orchestra, but there is no tension, they appear to be playing well within their ability . Really a must for Kenton fans, but also attractive to those who appreciate contempory extravagances. Check out CD Baby and Amazon for downloads.

Conducted by MARKUS GEISELHART and featuring ED PARTYKA about whom, for my sins I am bereft of knowledge. A happy accidental find! I was searching for any new sounds or video to do with the DON ELLIS who happened to be a friend all those years ago. I found something new to me and was knocked sideways by the quality and exhuberance of this, to me, amazing orchestra in Germany. Apparently they have done tributes to Don and unfortunately, apart from the videos of a couple of his tunes, that is all there is.

My word, in the USA they have tried to re-produce the Ellis band but for me have never ever come close to finding anyone who has successfully filled the void left by Don's passing. Anyhow that is by the by!

Here we have yet another tribute to Kenton. Not too many have done it successfully and sustainably. No apologies to Mike Vax as his band succeeds regularly; check reviews above.

The Continental big bands, and especially those from Germany can be relied upon to not allow big band appreciation to suffer due to lack of exposure and encouragement or media exposure. 14 tracks exploring the jazz side of the Kenton catalogue in a live performance, well recorded; atmospheric . No doubt the black belt Kenton fans will not approve, but you love good music; otherwise - get off my list! Check out some sound bites on CD Baby and Amazon. These excellent musicians are not in awe of the music, they enjoy it and stay in the zone throughout, very exciting; a thrilling CD. I will keep my eyes and ears open for their next adventure.

Do not ever dismiss any album that is the work of any school of music, college, university, whatever. The quality of performance equates very well with professional groups. Big bands or jazz ensembles particularly, come to life under the stewardship of a good director. Try Googling the terms "university", "College", "jazz ensemble". Trying attacking Youtube and see some of them performing. These groups contain the type of musician who you may find populating the best bands in time. Buddy Rich and Stan Kenton, who with others often visited top universities and came away with 'oven ready' jazz musicians who read well and performed at a high standard. Musicians who responded to the discipline of being part of a professional team.

The above is the case with this group. They perform a genuine catalogue of Tito's music with flair, exhuberance at a standard that Tito would not be ashamed of. The music can be heard on Youtube and bought at CD Baby, and the Amazons. When I discovered his music many years ago I was amazed at the jazz content, the ensemble writing and playing; being a big baner I was very comfortable with the product and would commend this project highly.

Some years ago when I was in the business of importing and distributing mostly big band material I was sent a copy of this album by the label for review; and to encourage me to stock it. No problem there except, that all access to it was curtailed. I do not know what went wrong, but delays and withdrawals can often be down to licensing/copyright problems. I gave up only to have a copy sent to me again. I find that it is available in small quantities via Amazon (USA) and more expensively through Amazon UK. I have an idea it will not be available too long.The Chicago Jazz Orchestra, already a superb big band in it's own right is a 'knock 'em down, drag 'em out ' jazz big band, that you should seek out; it is worth it. Terry is possibly known by some not for high notes or extreme dynamics, but for his lyrical interpretations, his sensitivity with that delicate sound. Here he pushes his own boundaries without and sacrifice to taste and always with respect for the mood of the Porgy and Bess music. A lovely album; don't expect it to suddenly hit you with powerful swing interludes. You are aware of the big band within but mostly I suppost the subtle nuances of the orchestra, strings and so on. Sit back and enjoy the artistry of the great Clark Terry.

Directed by Lenny King, this long established big band has been impressing collectors for many years with it's no nonsense lively approach to the most exciting music available.A penchant for the music of STAN KENTON has always been apparent as dipping into the bags of Don Menza, Woody herman and so on. There are two albums available LABOR OF LOVE and LIVE AND SCREAMING.They are available via AMAZON and CD BABY, the latter releases downloads at a decent price too.

Actually, this is one of the greater surprises for me. This iconic bass player I associate with small group classic of some time ago. I have always found that instrumentists of this calibre tend to prefer to play in small groups most of the time, but are pursuaded every now and then, not too often to play with a big band rather than form their own. It This is an exception, recorded in New York in 2010 with a lot of folk seen in the Village Vanguard band and so on, including LEWIS NASH, JERRY DODGION, SCOTT ROBINSON, GREG GISBERT, MULGREW MILLER and so on. A stomping modern jazz big band is revealed revelling in straight ahead big band jazz. Hard to find this one. It can be found on Amazon (US) or on the link above. I have bought from them and everything has been fine, a great selection anyhow and the prices are not cheap but again less than I would normally be asked for Japaese production.

The leaders are HOWARD HOOD and DAVE HANSON ; H" got it? An excellent production on JAZZED MEDIA. Denver, Colorado is the home of this band and the inspirational guests on this CD include BOBBY SHEW, and a few other 'out of towners. Recorded over 2 days would you believe!!! I need say no more than listen to the first track BLUE BREWS that willl suck you in to listen to it all. The music is from the GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK and a few originals. A great selection that swings from the top, straight ahead joyful swing. highly recommended by those who have heard. See them on Youtube, buy from CD Universe and Amazon. Downloads available, Check out the H" Bog Band website too.

A hidden treasure, recorded in 1961in Cologne as a sequel to the Blue Note album THE GOLDEN EIGHT. It has finally emerged and it is difficult to understand why there was a delay BUT we should be grateful.DUSKO GOJKOVIC, DEREK HUMBLE, KARL DREVO, JIMMY WOODE AND KENNY CLARKE are in the Octet of swinging standard, oozing the class one associates with one of the world's finest arrangers and big band leaders : FRANCY BOLAND on piano. A fabulous et that any serious listener would love to have I am sure. Off to AMAZON you go for your copy.

We all know the part that Barnet took in the 'swing era', the band always, for me , had a joyful exhuberance that we know somewhat mirrored the man's personality. What I missed out on was the fact that recordings he made around about the 60's made another point. It was that these incarnations made a case for his band being considered among the best of the post swing era bands. now with tremendous 'jazz' credentials.

Two reasons for this you may consider to be, the plethora of arrangers now being used that we now associate with the bands of Woody Herman and great studio bands that existed in the 50's and 60's.

To list a few: Byers, Holman. Wilkins.The musicians: Clark Terry, Snooky Young, Randy Brecker, Jimmy Cleveland Dick Meldonian, Richie Kamuca, Nat Pierce!!Does it get any better? Well actually YES!If you have not already gathered these CD collections, try LIVE AT BASIN STREET EAST '66 (HEP JAZZ). at the same time consider CHARLIE BARNEY BIG BAND 1967 + MORE. (LONEHILL JAZZ LABEL) The 'MORE' includes excerpts from DANCE BASH AND DANCING PARTY. The most thrilling content is, of course BIG BAND '67. Billy Byers, Don Rader, Hannah, Andy Gibson, Cohn, Roland and Bill Holman. The fidelity of these CDs is excellent My all time favourite big band drummer Jack Sperling and would you believe Don Lamond appearproviding swinging dynamic backgrounds for the likes of Candoli, Porcino, Tack, Willie Maiden, Bob Fitzpatrick, Severinson, Shavers.

CHARLIE BARNET - LONELY STREET again on the LONEHILL Label features the original LONELY STREET LP tracks and Dancing Party LP . The musicians , by the way , include Maynard Ferguson, Doc SeverinsenSi Zentner Barney Kessel, Alvin Stoller and so on.

The CDs can all be found within the AMAZON catalogue. As I have mentioned the fidelity is outstanding and the music a joy for fans of big band jazz, shall we say in classic Herman mould of the 60s

Music for the band recorded between 1948 and 1950 on the Capitol label. Nice money recordings including many Barnet classics. Funny,but sampling those later releases made me curious to listen to the earlier band. I found again, not only a stellar cast list but some old favourites I stopped listening to a long time again. So fresh, so stimulating to hear early SHANK, SEVERINSON, FERGUSON, MANNY ALBAM, EDDIE SAFRANSKI and BILL HOLMAN. Check out AMAZON again. Maybe your last chance as the vaults are cleared.

First of all I am talking about a concert recorded live at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 2009, broadcast to the nation which caused a rumour to spread throughout the country and feverish efforts to find someone who had recorded the program. I understand the rumour spread to the USA. I missed the broadcast but managed to hear an online repeat.

To say that this concert was sensational is a poor attempt to try and describe the performance adequately. As you may or not know the majority of the music that featured in those great musicals was unfortunately stored in a massive archive. Developers decided they needed the real estate for some money making scheme. Rather than find another archive the music was destroyed and/or buried under some land which is now a car park! Can you imagine the stupidity of these people? Those were good times in music , never to be repeated and but increasingly now, people do want those good old music days back. Except for old scraps of scores and a few manuscripts retained by the arrangers that was not going to happen because of myopic developers and bankers.

Up to the plate steps John Wilson, a lover of orchestra music, a jazz and big band fan and a saviour for the music. He was able to accurately recreate the music from the scraps and the soundtracks that are extant. Using the finest musicians and vocalists he finally was able to perform the music and he toured the UK with the orchestra and produced beautiful performances that thrilled audiences and created a increased awareness of our love of good music.

The original concert is now on DVD and available at Amazon and other places. Lovers of the classic musicals with be excited and enchanted by the music. The orchestra by the way is wrapped around a superb big band. The elements combine to produce heart-stopping performances ; occasionally the big band bursts free and and creates interludes that have the audience standing, shouting, and cheering . I'VE GOT RHYTHM is one you will play over and over. The sense of occasion created by the delicious Kim Griswell and the the orchestra, crowned by a bid band segment which will take your breath away is unbelievable . You will feel emotions that suggest you are in the presence of greatness, maybe a surreptitious dab of the eyes!!!

Of course you may want something to play in the car ; now there is a CD available as of the 1st September 2011. You can throw away your attempt to create your own from the soundtrack. This was done in the studio with the same orchestra plus most of the original vocalists and it is fabulous, headphones on and eyes closed. I bet you will be seeking to watch the films again.

Featuring Sherry Maricle and the DIVA Jazz Orchestras LIVE!!!Mr Mandel created the arrangements for this concert including 10 of his own compositions. You may not be aware of the DIVA Jazz Orchestra and for some strange reason those who came across the group may have passed it by for whatever reason. Bad move guys, you missed one of the few extant recording big bands that tours, gathering fans everywhere. This is a great assertive, dynamic big band of the finest female musicians in the USA. I cannot oversell the quality of the performance of these fabulous performers. Sherry Maricle, the leader and drummer has shades of the finestb old time swing drummers as well as an ability to compliment modern scenarios. Anyhow this is a swinging bit of nostalgia that will WOW swing/jazz fans. Go to MAZON under Johnny Mandel for copies.

Obviously inspired by Herbie Hancock's iconic suit. The second CD by a remarkable big band ( see the links below). I note that the arrangements feature a remarkable arranger I first came across some time ago in New York. He found a way of introducing me to a form of 'cutting edge' that I found very acceptable due to its lyrical sensitivity and propensity to make original statements while still showing the tendency to swing attractively rather than meander as does the music of Marie Schneider for me. Available from CD Baby and provided you enjoy modern swinging big band jazz this will be for you.

On the SOUNDS OF YESTERYEAR label this is a concert recorded on the 7 th November 1969 and VERY 'live'. An excellent band no doubt. The only members of the Kenton aggregation are Kenton himself on piano and Jiggs Whigham. This is a predictable collection of titles from the Kenton book and the performs admirably as you would expect from a German Big Band. The fidelity is acceptable to most Kenton fans but I suspect that this concert was not meant to be on album. One remarkable thing about the event is the booing of an element in the audience which I understand was minimised by engineers. Obviously this was disquieting for Kenton. I would like to hear this band properly recorded using it's usual library. Available from Amazon.

Years ago I learned never to dismiss a jazz ensemble/big band album produced by a University. Had I dismissed them in the past I would never have discovered the work of Hank Levy (KIenton and Don Ellis composer/arranger; the University Of North Texas, Eastman Scoool Of Music and many more . Quite often the musical directors hail from some of the great bands and many of the students are eventually able to add working with Buddy Rich, Woody Herman, Stan Kenton and Don Ellis to their curriculum vitae.

So this tribute to the work of Thad Jones caught my attention via my Seer in Croydon. Thad's music is very easy to play badly, but with attention to detail and rehearsal it sounds superb. There is always a thumbprint missing because it is not Thad, but particularly when the leader, in this Case Terell Stafford, are on the case the result is laudable.

Available via CD Baby this project is worth a look see.

Every now and then an album appears that shouts quality. The SKELTON/SKINNER big band features some of the finest musicians in the Home Counties area of the U.K. (London-ish to those outside the UK). In my opinion, this group will stand alongside the best anywhere and much better than some.

Matt Skelton is a battle scarred young veteran drummer who has earned is status playing in the top big bands and has recently gathered some kudos for sparking the outstanding big band within the John Wilson orchestra.Colin Skinner is a saxist who just cannot leave the big bands alone and has recently been leading another band called the SKIN DEEP Big Band; I am not aware of recordings but you can guess the concept. Worthy of a mention that Matt Skelton purposely avoided a cliched drum featured performance preferring to drive the band with his foot firmly on the gas. The concept!!! Well would you accept a tribute to Terry Gibbs' swinging jazz band. See above re the albums by the Terry Gibbs Big Band. Gibbs music has been faithfully recreated, which of course includes arrangements by Bill Holman, Lennie Neihaus and Manny Albam.. Included within the band are Andy Wood (Trom), Gordon Campbell (Trom) Mike Lovatt ( the best lead in the land) and so many more.

This gem is available from Amazon and has on just been released, you can get it in Album or download form.

The late Peter Herbolzheimer was leader of Germany's National Youth Jazz Orchestra, the Bundes Jazz Orchester (BuJazzo) until his health failed him and he passed away in 2010. P.H. was a valve trombonist/ arranger and leader of the acclaimed RHYTHM COMBINATION AND BRASS aggregation , a smaller big band that grew into a generously staffed big band. You will soon become addicted to the luxurious dynamic sounds; every big band fan's dream!

His arrangements are now treasured possessions of many European big bands as well as quite a few bands in Britain and the U.S.A. Those who know him will willingly put him among a select group of arrangers considered to be the best anywhere.

For impact and dynamic qualities one can perhaps compare the R.C.& B. with late Woody Herman. It swings cruelly and never fails to excite. Many albums have been issued and I beseech you to plunder Amazon's archives and gather as many as possible because, not only are they important releases but you will revisit them often.

I am not sure you can say that the BUJAZZO is a feeder band for his main band but certainly many star players have escaped from this orchestra into major bands all over the globe, certainly certain names will be recognised.

BUJAZZO also produced high quality releases on CD, again Google away; none will disappoint. This is the latest and the last under the stewardship of Peter Herbolzheimer. Like everything else it is available via Amazon and other places including I-Tunes.

A new release on Planet Arts (link below).

As I write there is only one way of getting this DBL CD, that is by contacting Planet Arts. They give a price in US Dollars not '£'s; so not a bad deal. It may take a week or so but believe me it is worth it. Lovers of That Jones Mel Lewis recordings will live to regret missing this I guarantee!

13 tracks; mostly extended tracks, so full value. What can one say? This band performs these arrangements faultlessly, with style and character . A beautifully recorded at time powerfully dynamic concert well appreciated by a lucky, well appreciated audience. There were a nhumber of concerts with the same folk going to every one it seems. This forced the band not to do too many repeats, I believe they went through 38 or charts, keeping the band on it's toes. Exhilarating prospect HUH?

What else can I say? You love Thad and Mel' you cannot fail to love this. By the way the personnel; all the usual suspects, not just key players and local subs. Other dealers are aware of the CD but no-one else has supplies at this time.

Statistics tell me that I have gathered over 2,500 followers for this HUB and the rest of my HUBS, Please note that I am always pleased to respond to comments about the usefulness of my site. I am always open to any suggestions regarding commendable BIG Band Jazz releases or re-releases. Top right is a box for you to consider using, if you want to flag yourself as a follower of these pages. Keeps my ego from flagging and encourages me to trawl the internet new or forgotten recordings that still may be available. Hopefully I have been able to help a few with my service.