BENNY GOODMAN AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1936-1937 | The Classics Chronological Series – 858 (1995) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The addition of Harry James to Benny Goodman & His Orchestra in January 1937 gave Benny Goodman one of the greatest trumpet sections ever with James, Ziggy Elman, and Chris Griffin all able to play both solos and lead. Gene Krupa's drumming became increasingly assertive during this period, adding excitement to the band even if Goodman was not sure that he enjoyed the change in the group's sound. Helen Ward's decision to retire at the end of 1936 was unfortunate (she would never regain the fame that she had at that moment) and it would take Goodman much of 1937 before finding the right vocalist. But with that trumpet section, Jess Stacy, Krupa, and the Benny Goodman Trio and quartet, not to mention the leader's clarinet, this was a classic band -- the most popular in the music world. Among the many highlights on this CD are the Benny Goodman Trio's version of "Tiger Rag," the Benny Goodman Quartet on "Stompin' at the Savoy," Ella Fitzgerald guesting on "Goodnight My Love," "Peckin'," and the original studio version of "Sing, Sing, Sing." Scott Yanow
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