BENNY GOODMAN AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1944-1945 | The Classics Chronological Series – 1345 (2004) FLAC (tracks), lossless

This segment of the Benny Goodman chronology documents the recordings he made with his trio, quartet, quintet, sextet, and "All Star Band" for V-Disc and Columbia from the end of June 1944 through the first week of February 1945. The disc opens with a magnificent instrumental version of "After You've Gone" played by a 16-piece ensemble featuring trumpeters Roy Eldridge, Charlie Shavers, and Yank Lawson; baritone saxophonist Ernesto "Ernie" Caceres; Teddy Wilson at the piano; and Gordon "Specs" Powell behind the drums. As if to preface the recording industry's postwar infatuation with star vocalists, Goodman waxed a side with ex-Ted Weems crooner Perry Como and two additional titles with vocalist Mildred Bailey. Backed only by his rhythm section, Goodman concluded the day's work by frying up one of the hottest versions of Vincent Youmans' "Hallelujah" ever captured on record. The rest of this compilation is devoted to a wonderful series of small-group V-Disc and Columbia sessions, most of which feature Mildred Bailey's ex-husband Red Norvo on the vibraphone. Interspersed with occasional sweet vocals by Jane Harvey and Peggy Mann, the instrumental numbers are small-band swing of the highest order. The Goodman sextet in particular was greatly enhanced by the presence of bassist Slam Stewart. arwulf arwulf  
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