MILLS BLUE RHYTHM BAND – 1933-1934 | The Classics Chronological Series – 686 (1993) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

By 1933, the Mills Blue Rhythm Band was entering its prime period. On the third of Classics' five "complete" CDs by the orchestra, the music is excellent, except for four okay vocals by Chuck Richards. Trumpeter Ed Anderson emerged as a strong soloist during the period; trombonist J.C. Higginbottham joined the band for the final 11 of these 23 selections; the great trumpeter Henry "Red" Allen signed up in time for the last nine numbers; tenor saxophonist Joe Garland was featured on some good spots; and the rhythm section proves that it could hold its own with most others of the time. In addition, guest singer Adelaide Hall is heard on two previously unreleased numbers that were previously unreleased. Such charts as "Ridin' In Rhythm," "Harlem After Midnight" (heard in two versions), "The Stuff Is Here (And It's Mellow)," "The Growl" and "Swingin' In E Flat" are quite enjoyable. Recommended. Scott Yanow
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MILLS BLUE RHYTHM BAND – 1934-1936 | The Classics Chronological Series – 710 (1993) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The fourth of the European Classics label's five CDs containing the complete output of the Mills Blue Rhythm Band captures the underrated orchestra at the peak of their powers. Formerly a no-name outfit, trumpeter Henry "Red" Allen, trombonist J.C. Higginbotham, clarinetist Buster Bailey, and tenor saxophonist Joe Garland were the group's star soloists by this time. In addition, by the last eight numbers on this highly recommended program, altoist Tab Smith was also part of the band. The CD starts off with three numbers on which singer Chuck Richards is backed by a sextet including Allen, Bailey, and trombonist Benny Morton. Otherwise the program features the full orchestra (directed by Lucky Millinder by this time). There are many exciting tracks along with a few ballad vocal features for Richards, with the more memorable performances including "Spitfire," "Ride Red Ride," "Congo Caravan," "There's Rhythm in Harlem" (which hints at the then-unwritten "In the Mood"), "Truckin'," and "E Flat Stride." This is the best of the five Classics Blue Rhythm releases. Scott Yanow  
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