BENNY CARTER AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1937-1939 | The Classics Chronological Series – 552 (1990) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The fourth CD in Classics' complete chronological reissue of Benny Carter's early recordings as a leader finds Carter (on alto, trumpet, clarinet, tenor and even one vocal) leading orchestras in London, Laren, the Hague, Paris and (for the final three selections) New York. Highpoints include "Nagasaki," "I'm in the Mood for Swing," "Blues in My Heart," "I'm Coming Virginia" (from a three-song session that also features Django Reinhardt) and "Melancholy Lullaby." In addition, the great tenor Coleman Hawkins plays a prominent role on four of the performances. Carter is in top form throughout these often formerly rare but very vital swing recordings. His fans should quickly acquire all of these invaluable Classics releases. Scott Yanow     Tracklist + Credits :

JELLY-ROLL MORTON – 1928-1929 | The Chronogical Classics – 627 (1992) FLAC (tracks), lossless

This CD traces Jelly Roll Morton's period in New York, starting with his second record date in the Big Apple. A few of the sessions have Morton joined by an excess of musicians, with the results certainly being spirited, if bordering on getting out of control. "Tank Town Bump" and "Red Hot Pepper Stomp" are the best of these numbers. In addition, Morton is heard on four excellent piano solos (including "Seattle Hunch" and "Freakish"), leading a nucleus taken from the Luis Russell Orchestra on four other songs, and playing as a sideman with vaudevillian clarinetist Wilton Crawley's pickup band, sometimes to hilarious effect. One of the true jazz giants, every recording by Jelly Roll Morton is well worth acquiring in one form or another. Scott Yanow  
Tracklist + Credits :

FATS WALLER – 1942-1943 | The Classics Chronological Series – 1097 (1999) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

These are the last recordings in the Fats Waller legacy. The 22 tracks are drawn from sessions recorded in March and July of 1942 and January and September of 1943. Featuring the last recordings with his rhythm, a version of "That Ain't Right" with Ada Brown on vocals and V-disc recordings made for soldiers overseas during World War II. It is the V-disc material that proved Waller wasn't just a jovial clown, which he makes obvious on his version of "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child" performed on organ. Anyone only familiar with the Waller hits like "Ain't Misbehavin'" (included here in two separate versions) should hear this to gain perspective on his career. Al Campbell
Tracklist + Credits :

RED NORVO AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1944-1945 | The Classics Chronological Series – 1356 (2004) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Anyone who listens through the previous six volumes of Red Norvo on Classics will likely experience a visceral sense of excitement from 1943 onward as Norvo switches from xylophone to vibraphone and adopts a noticeably modern attitude toward the music. Norvo underwent a profound artistic transformation in 1944-1945, his many years of experience enabling him to settle into a new role as established recording artist and bandleader with an open-minded respect for young artists bearing new ideas. Norvo's remarkable skills as an improviser coupled with a willingness to participate in what music critics call the bop revolution often placed him squarely within the eye of the rapidly evolving cultural hurricane of modern music. This seventh album in the Norvo chronology delivers an unprecedented dosage of top-notch jazz, documenting the historical swing-to-bop phenomenon in 16 wonderful tracks. With five Keynote sides, two V-Discs, and an epochal meeting with Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, topped off by Norvo's Nonet/Quintet set at the fabulous 1945 Town Hall Jazz Concert, this is by far the best volume in the Classics chronology of his recorded works, and might very well be the greatest all-purpose Red Norvo album ever released to the public. arwulf arwulf  
Tracklist + Credits :

ART TATUM – 1940-1944 | The Classics Chronological Series – 800 (1995) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

This wonderful compilation -- the third volume in the complete recordings of Art Tatum -- will delight seasoned Tatum lovers and may also serve as the perfect introduction for those who seek initiation. That's because this portion of the Tatum chronology just happens to feature the pianist in his very prime as soloist, accompanist, and bandleader. The first 11 tracks were originally issued on the Decca label. Three excellent piano solos from July 1940 are followed by two sessions' worth of swinging instrumentals and strongly steeped blues sung by Kansas City's Joe Turner. Trumpeter Joe Thomas and clarinetist Edmond Hall were perfect foils for this singer. Hall's sinewy solos enliven "Stompin' at the Savoy" and Tatum's fine piece of boogie, "Battery Bounce." Guitarists John Collins and Oscar Moore each bring a special sense of conviviality to the ensembles. Moving ahead to January 1944, Tatum is heard with Tiny Grimes and Slam Stewart on a series of dazzling trio sides, most of which first appeared on the Brunswick label. These stunning collaborations are prized for their wealth of invention and relaxed intimacy. arwulf arwulf
Tracklist + Credits :

TEDDY WILSON – 1942-1945 | The Classics Chronological Series – 908 (1996) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Pianist Teddy Wilson was the epitome of style in jazz. He stuck to his pristine brand of swing throughout a long career, never really seeming out of place in the process. After working with the likes of Billie Holiday, Roy Eldridge, and Benny Goodman, Wilson formed his own big band in 1939, only to have to fold it in 1940. Thankfully, Wilson returned to combo settings, which seemed to suit him best. This Classics disc features a mix of those small-group dates from the mid-'40s, along with some solo piano sides and a few vocal cuts featuring Helen Ward and Maxine Sullivan. Also on hand to contribute top-notch work are trumpeter Charlie Shavers, clarinetist Edmond Hall, tenor great Ben Webster, and trombonist Benny Morton. An optimal and highly enjoyable disc to start your Wilson collection. Stephen Cook
Tracklist + Credits :

JOE MARSALA – 1944-1945 | The Classics Chronological Series – 902 (1996) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

This is the story of a man who got his start with traditionally oriented musicians like Wingy Manone and Eddie Condon, then gradually evolved into a "modern" sounding artist who never completely turned his back on the old-fashioned music that had spawned him. Beginning with a typical Chicago jam formula blowing session, Joe's All-Timers -- essentially the Condon band with Joe as leader -- present the slow blues/fast blues pairing, sandwiched between two standard New Orleans stomps. A striking contrast occurs when we encounter the session of November 29, 1944 as Joe's wife Adele Girard opens several of the tunes with arpeggios from her harp. Sounding a bit like her contemporary Robert Maxwell, she swings a bit but also sends flurries of almost Harpo Marx-like effervescence into the air. This combines strangely with Chuck Wayne's amplified guitar and the mingling of trumpet and clarinet. The melodies themselves demonstrate a very modernized swing, with an unmistakable bop edge, right on the money for the mid-1940s, if not somewhat ahead of their time. The tempi are very quick, hasty enough to have given Eddie Condon a headache if he'd even listen to such stuff. During the dynamic "Joe-Joe Jump" Adele plays virtuosic swing harp, showing off her amazing technique. This must have been a very exciting act in person. On the second half of the date Adele takes a break while Linda Keene sings two interpersonal relationship blues, very slow and sultry, obviously inspired by Billie Holiday. Joe was an exceptionally sensitive bluesman, working in wonderfully understated ways with trumpeter Joe Thomas. Sitting in at the piano behind the singer was Leonard Feather, who also wrote the material for her. Leonard composed topical blues for a lot of musicians, most notably Hot Lips Page. "Don't Let It End" is Joe's own piece of blues, deep and clear, powerfully effective as an instrumental. The Joe Marsala Sextet had Dizzy Gillespie sitting in on January 12,1945. It's interesting to compare these sides with the other recordings Gillespie participated in during that same month (see Classics 888). "Perdido" is a creative delight and "Melancholy Baby" becomes a feisty swing-to-bop outing. Chuck Wayne is very plugged in and Diz enjoys himself, working up wild solos over these familiar melodies, signing his name all over "On the Alamo." Joe of course takes this in stride, sounding as comfortable as ever with the music evolving so rapidly all around him. "Cherokee" inevitably exudes bop juice, running rapid and sailing through frantic changes as Diz rips it up. On May 4, 1945 Adele Girard got feature billing with her husband's septet, integrating her swing harp into the ensemble as if it were the most natural thing in the world to do. "Southern Comfort" is a suave line, as cool as cukes. There's a spry run through Rodgers & Hart's "Lover," a welcome reinterpretation of "Don't Let It End" (sounding really nice with the addition of the harp), and a sassy version of "Gotta Be This or That," with vocal by Marsala himself. "East of the Sun" is all lavender and lace and "Slightly Dizzy" pours on the bop, showcasing the inventive piano of young Gene DiNovi. "I Would Do Anything for You" comes out elegant, sophisticated and calm. A marvelous finale for this fascinating portrait of a remarkable clarinetist and the unique bands that he led at the stylistic crossroads of 1944 and 1945. arwulf arwulf
Tracklist + Credits :

DON BYAS – 1944-1945 | The Classics Chronological Series – 882 (1996) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Don Byas was one of the great tenor saxophonists of the 1940s, a Coleman Hawkins-influenced improviser who developed a complex style of his own. His permanent move to Europe in 1946 cut short any chance he had of fame, but Byas recorded many worthy performances during the two years before his departure. On Classics' first Don Byas CD (which contains his first 21 numbers as a leader), Byas matches wits and power with trumpeter Charlie Shavers on two heated sessions that include pianist Clyde Hart and bassist Slam Stewart. He also plays swing with trumpeter Joe Thomas and pianist Johnny Guarnieri in a 1945 quintet and leads a quartet that, on four of its eight numbers, welcomes the great blues guitarist/singer Big Bill Broonzy. Highlights include "Riffin' and Jivin'," "Don's Idea," the two-part "Savoy Jam Party," "1944 Stomp" (which has been adopted by 1990s saxophonist James Carter), "Pennies From Heaven," "Jamboree Jump," and "Just a Dream." This music was originally put out by Savoy, Jamboree, and Hub. Highly recommended. Scott Yanow  

Tracklist + Credits :

FLETCHER HENDERSON AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1934-1937 | The Classics Chronological Series – 527 (1990) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

In early 1935, Fletcher Henderson broke up his classic orchestra, but a year later, with the success of so many other big bands, he formed a new ensemble. This Classics CD includes four songs from 1934, Henderson's entire output from 1936, and his first recording of 1937. The main difference between the two units is that the later one boasted the trumpet of Roy Eldridge and tenor solos from Coleman Hawkins's potential successor, Chu Berry. "Christopher Columbus" became a hit, as did the band's new theme song ("Stealin' Apples") but the brief bit of glory would not last. However, Henderson's brand of swing music still sounds fresh today and this CD is easily recommended. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :

BARNEY BIGARD – 1944 | The Classics Chronological Series – 896 (1996) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Barney Bigard is one of the great jazz clarinetists. Although most famous for playing in Duke Ellington's band, Bigard performed with a host of lesser bandleaders, giving a series of distinctive, lyrical performances with each. 1944 collects Bigard's performances with the Capitol International Jazzmen, Zutty Singleton's bands, and his time with Roger Kay. Although not as consistently revelatory as his playing with the Duke, these sessions show Bigard to be a master of his instrument, displaying fabulous technique and great lyricism throughout. The Classics label has done a fine job at remastering, and the excellent liner notes round off a nice package. Thomas Ward
Tracklist + Credits :

BARNEY BIGARD – 1944-1945 | The Classics Chronological Series – 930 (1997) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

1944-1945 collects Bigard's output after the clarinetist left the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Although his brief time with a band fronted by Joe Thomas is not as consistently rewarding as his stint with Ellington (what could be?), it's still historically valuable and enjoyable for fans of the clarinetist. Bigard had certainly lost none of the virtuosity of his earlier years, but the material is patchier. Nevertheless, this release will be appealing to Bigard's fans, and the Classics label has done an admirable job with the remastering and liner notes. Thomas Ward
Tracklist + Credits :

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1930-1934 | The Classics Chronological Series – 501 (1990) FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

The first in Classics' "complete" Jimmie Lunceford series has two titles apiece from 1930 (when the band was based in Tennessee) and 1933 along with its first six sessions for Decca in 1934. Lunceford's band had an immediately recognizable sound by 1934 and, despite the presence of such top soloists as altoist Willie Smith, tenor-saxophonist Joe Thomas and high-note trumpeter Tommy Stevenson, it was its arranged ensembles (particularly those of Sy Oliver) that gave the orchestra its musical identity. Among the better selections on this CD are "Flaming Reeds And Screaming Brass," "White Heat," "Swinging' Uptown," "Rose Room," "Miss Otis Regrets" and the band's fresh interpretations of Duke Ellington's "Black And Tan Fantasy" and "Mood Indigo." Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Jimmie Lunceford And His Chickasaw Syncopators–    In Dat Mornin' 3:21
Speech [Preaching] – Moses Allen
2    Jimmie Lunceford And His Chickasaw Syncopators–    Sweet Rhythm     2:41
3    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Flaming Reeds And Screaming Brass    2:57
4    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    While Love Lasts     3:06
5    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    White Heat 2:29
Arranged By – Will Hudson
6    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Jazznocracy 2:42
Arranged By – Will Hudson
7    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Chillun Get Up 3:19
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Henry Wells
8    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Leavin' Me 3:05
Vocals – Henry Wells
9    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Swingin' Uptown 2:37
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
10    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Breakfast Ball 3:00
Arranged By, Vocals – Sy Oliver
11    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Here Goes (A Fool) 2:45
Vocals – Henry Wells
12    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Remember When 3:20
Vocals – Henry Wells
13    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Sophisticated Lady 3:10
Arranged By – Willie Smith
14    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Mood Indigo 2:58
Arranged By – Willie Smith
15    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Rose Room 3:06
Arranged By – Willie Smith
16    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Black And Tan Fantasy 2:51
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
17    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Stratosphere 2:15
Arranged By – Jimmie Lunceford
18    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Nana 3:10
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Henry Wells
19    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Miss Otis Regrets 2:41
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Sy Oliver
20    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Unsophisticated Sue     3:08
21    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Stardust 3:02
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Henry Wells
22    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Dream Of You 3:09
Arranged By, Vocals – Sy Oliver
23    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Stomp It Off 3:13
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
24    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Call It Anything (It Wasn't Love) 3:18
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Henry Wells
25    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Because You're You 3:23
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Henry Wells
Credits :    
Alto Saxophone – Jimmie Lunceford (tracks: 1 to 12), LaForet Dent (tracks: 13 to 25)
Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone – Earl Carrothers
Alto Saxophone, Clarinet, Baritone Saxophone – Willie Smith
Bass – Moses Allen
Directed By – Jimmie Lunceford
Drums, Vibraphone – Jimmy Crawford
Guitar – Al Norris
Piano, Celesta – Edwin Wilcox
Tenor Saxophone – George Clark (tracks: 1, 2)
Tenor Saxophone, Clarinet – Joe Thomas (tracks: 3 to 25)
Trombone – Henry Wells, Russell Bowles (tracks: 3 to 25)
Trumpet – Eddie Tompkins (tracks: 3 to 25), Sy Oliver (tracks: 1, 2, 5 to 25), Tommy Stevenson (tracks: 3 to 25), William "Sleepy" Tomlin (tracks: 3, 4)

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1934-1935 | The Classics Chronological Series – 505 (1990) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The second of Classics' reissuance of all the master takes of Jimmie Lunceford's recordings finds the orchestra gaining in popularity and in power. Among the highlights (most of the songs were arranged by Sy Oliver or Ed Wilcox) are "Since My Beat Gal Turned Me Down," "Rhythm Is Our Business," "Shake Your Head," "Sleepy-Time Gal," "Four or Five Times" and "Swanee River." The high musicianship and clean ensembles (along with the showmanship) are most impressive and the concise solos (particularly from altoist Willie Smith, tenor saxophonist Joe Thomas and trumpeter Sy Oliver) are enjoyable and fit in logically as part of the arrangements. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Chillum, Get Up 3:03
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Henry Wells, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
Written-By – Parker
2    Solitude 3:10
Vocals – Henry Wells
Written-By – Ellington, DeLange
3    Rain 3:20
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Henry Wells, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
Written-By – Swansstrom, Morgan, Ford
4    Since My Best Gal Turned Me Down 3:30
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Henry Wells, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
Written-By – Quicksell, Ludwig
5    Jealous 3:07
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Henry Wells
Written-By – Finch, Little, Malie
6    Rhythm Is Our Business 3:08
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Chorus – Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra
Vocals – Willie Smith
Written-By – Lunceford, Cahn, Chaplin
7    I'm Walking Through Heaven With You 3:12
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Henry Wells
Written-By – Lunceford
8    Shake Your Head (From Side To Side) 2:52
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Written-By – Gerow, Cahn
9    Sleepy Time Gal 3:08
Alto Saxophone – Jimmie Lunceford
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Written-By – Lorenzo, Alden, Whiting
10    Bird Of Paradise 3:20
Arranged By – Eddie Durham, Edwin Wilcox
Written-By – Ellington
11    Rhapsody Junior 3:23
Arranged By – Eddie Durham, Edwin Wilcox
Written-By – Ellington
12    Runnin' Wild 3:11
Arranged By – Willie Smith
Vocals – Sy Oliver
Written-By – Gibbs, Grey, Wood
13    Four Or Five Times 3:07
Arranged By, Vocals – Sy Oliver
Written-By – Gay, Hellman
14    (If I Had) Rhythm In My Nursery Rhymes 3:01
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Willie Smith
Written-By – Ray, Lunceford, Cahn, Chaplin
15    Babs 3:07
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
Written-By – Ahlert, Young
16    Swanee River 2:45
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Written-By – Foster
17    Thunder 3:04
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
Written-By – Manners, Lewis
18    Oh! Boy 3:10
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
Written-By – Durham, Lunceford
19    (You Take The East, Take The West, Take The North) I'll Take The South 2:40
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
Written-By – Palmer, Klages
20    Avalon 3:05
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
Written-By – Jolson, De Sylva, Rose
21    Charmaine 2:50
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
Written-By – Rapee, Pollack
22    Hittin' The Bottle 3:07
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
Vocals – Sy Oliver
Written-By – Arlen, Koehler
Credits :    
Alto Saxophone – LaForest Dent
Bass – Moses Allen
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone – Dan Grissom (tracks: 10 to 22)
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone – Earl Carruthers, Willie Smith
Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone – Joe Thomas
Drums, Vibraphone – Jimmy Crawford
Guitar – Al Norris
Leader, Arranged By – Jimmie Lunceford
Orchestra – Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra
Piano, Celesta – Edwin Wilcox
Trombone – Elmer Crumbley (tracks: 9 to 22), Henry Wells (tracks: 1 to 8), Russell Bowles
Trombone, Guitar – Eddie Durham (tracks: 9 to 22)
Trumpet – Eddie Tompkins, Paul Webster (tracks: 9 to 22), Sy Oliver, Tommy Stevenson (tracks: 1 to 8)

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1939 | The Classics Chronological Series – 532 (1990) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

For this Classics CD, most of the Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra's earlier Vocalion recordings (owned by Columbia) are reissued. The loss of Sy Oliver in August 1939 (he was lured away by Tommy Dorsey) would soon hurt the band but they were still using Oliver's arrangemetns in the last session. "Baby, Won't You Please Come Home," "What Is This Thing Called Swing," a classic rendition of "Ain't She Sweet," "Well, All Right Then" and "Belgium Stomp" are among the more memorable selections on this CD which also has a few typically inferior Dan Grissom ballad vocals. Swing fans will want all of these CDs even if they do not include Lunceford's alternate takes. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Baby Won't You Please Come Home? 2:50
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Joe Thomas
2    You're Just A Dream 2:51
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
3    The Lonesome Road 2:31
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Trummy Young
4    You Set Me On Fire 2:38
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
5    I've Only Myself To Blame 2:45
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
6    What Is This Thing Called Swing? 2:26
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Joe Thomas
7    Mixup 2:18
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
8    Shoemaker's Holiday 2:50
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
9    Blue Blazes 2:50
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
10    Mandy 2:52
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
11    Easter Parade 2:40
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Trummy Young
12    Ain't She Sweet? 2:27
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Trummy Young
13    White Heat 2:20
Arranged By – Will Hudson
14    Oh Why, Oh Why 2:49
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
15    Well, All Right Then 2:42
Vocals – Orchestra
16    You Let Me Down 2:52
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
17    I Love You 2:46
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
18    Who Did You Meet Last Night? 2:35
Arranged By – Will Beines
Vocals – Dan Grissom
19    You Let Me Down 2:46
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
20    Sassin' The Boss 2:43
Arranged By – Jesse Stone
Vocals – Willie Smith
21    I Want The Waiter (With The Water) 2:43
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Orchestra, Trummy Young
22    I Used To Love You (But It's All Over Now) 2:45
Arranged By – Milton Hill
Vocals – Joe Thomas
23    Belgium Stomp 2:29
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
24    You Can Fool Some Of The People (Some Of TheTime) 2:21
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Trummy Young
25    Think Of Me, Little Daddy 2:42
Arranged By – Edward Inge
Vocals – Trummy Young
26    Liza (All The Clouds'll Roll Away) 2:37
Arranged By – Edward Inge
Flute – Jimmie Lunceford, Joe Thomas, Ted Buckner
Credits :    
Alto Saxophone – Dan Grissom, Ted Buckner
Bass – Moses Allen
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone – Earl Carruthers, Willie Smith
Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone – Joe Thomas
Directed By – Jimmie Lunceford
Drums, Vibraphone – Jimmy Crawford
Guitar – Al Norris
Piano, Celesta – Edwin Wilcox
Trombone – Elmer Crumbley, Russell Bowles, James "Trummy" Young
Trumpet – Eddie Tompkins, Gerald Wilson (tracks: 18 to 26), Paul Webster, Sy Oliver (tracks: 1 to 17)

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1935-1937 | The Classics Chronological Series – 510 (1990) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Although there have been a few GRP/Decca samplers released domestically, the best way for serious collectors to acquire the recordings of Jimmie Lunceford are by getting the reissue CDs put out by the European labels. On Classics' third Lunceford set, the personnel stays the same (except for one minor change) during the 15-month period that is covered. The well-rehearsed unit continued to grow and develop during this time. Among the highpoints of the CD are "My Blue Heaven," "Organ Grinder's Swing," "Harlem Shout" and "Slumming on Park Avenue." Although one can do without the occasional Dan Grissom vocals, the concise solos, tricky charts and hip singing of Sy Oliver make this music well worth investigating by fans of the swing era. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    My Blue Heaven 3:10
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Violin – Al Norris
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
2    I'm Nuts About Screwy Music 3:03
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Willie Smith
3    The Best Things In Life Are Free 3:20
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
4    The Melody Man 3:06
Arranged By, Vocals – Sy Oliver
5    Organ Grinder's Swing 2:37
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
6    On The Beach At Bali-Bali 2:57
Arranged By, Vocals – Sy Oliver
7    Me And The Moon 3:02
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
8    Living From Day To Day 3:04
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
9    'Tain't Good (Like A Nickle Made Of Wood) 3:11
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
10    Muddy Water (A Mississippi Moan) 2:55
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
11    I Can't Escape From You 3:00
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
12    Harlem Shout 3:01
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
13    (This Is) My Last Affair 2:48
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
14    Running A Temperature 3:00
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
Vocals – Sy Oliver
15    Count Me Out 3:12
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
Vocals – Dan Grissom
16    I'll Sell You In My Dreams 2:46
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
17    He Ain't Got Rhythm 2:43
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Joe Thomas
18    Linger Awhile 2:32
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
19    Honest And Truly 2:59
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
20    Slumming On Park Avenue 3:01
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Sy Oliver, Willie Smith
21    Coquette 3:10
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Dan Grissom
22    The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down 2:50
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Sy Oliver
23    Ragging The Scale 3:09
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Credits :    
Alto Saxophone – Ed Brown (tracks: 21 to 23), LaForet Dent (tracks: 1 to 20)
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone – Dan Grissom
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone – Earl Carruthers, Willie Smith
Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone – Joe Thomas
Directed By – Jimmie Lunceford
Drums, Vibraphone – Jimmy Crawford
Guitar – Al Norris
Piano, Celesta – Edwin Wilcox
Trombone – Elmer Crumbley, Russell Bowles
Trombone, Guitar – Eddie Durham
Trumpet – Eddie Tompkins, Paul Webster, Sy Oliver

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1937-1939 | The Classics Chronological Series – 520 (1990) FLAC (tracks), lossless

For this entry in Classics' complete reissuance of Jimmie Lunceford's recordings, the biggest news for the band was the addition of trombonist Trummy Young who, in addition to being a major soloist, had vocal hits in "Margie" and "'Tain't What You Do (It's The Way That You Do It)." Other highlights of this well-rounded CD include "Annie Laurie," "Sweet Sue" and "By the River Saint-Marie." Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1     Hell's Bells 3:10
Art Kassel
2     For Dancers Only 2:43
Sy Oliver / Don Raye / Vic Schoen
3     Posin' 3:00
Sammy Cahn / Saul Chaplin
4     The First Time I Saw You 2:47
Nathaniel Shilkret / Allie Wrubel
5     Honey, Keep Your Mind on Me 3:10
Jimmie Lunceford / Allan Roberts / Porter Roberts
6     Put on Your Old Grey Bonnet 2:49
Stanley Murphy / Percy Wenrich
7     Pigeon Walk 2:41
Sam M. Lewis / James V. Monaco
8     Like a Ship at Sea 2:47
Jimmie Lunceford
9     Teasin' Tessie Brown 2:56
Jimmie Lunceford / Andy Razaf
10     Annie Laurie 3:12
Traditional
11     Frisco Fog 3:12
Leon Carr / Bill Smith
12     Margie 3:09
Con Conrad / Benny Davis / J. Russel Robinson
13     The Love Nest 3:04
Otto Harbach / Walter Hirsch
14     I'm Laughing Up My Sleeve (Ha-Ha-Ha-Ha-Ha) 2:53
Jack Lawrence / Peter Tinturin
15     Down by the Old Mill Stream 3:00
Tell Taylor
16     My Melancholy Baby 3:06
Ernie Burnett / George Norton
17     Sweet Sue, Just You 2:49
Will J. Harris / Victor Young
18     By the River Sainte Marie 3:15
Edgar Leslie / Harry Warren
19     Rainin' 2:59
Sy Oliver
20     'Tain't What You Do (It's the Way That You Do It) 3:05
Sy Oliver / Trummy Young
21     Cheatin' on Me 2:47
Lew Pollack / Jack Yellen
22     Le Jazz Hot 2:43
Hal Mooney / Sy Oliver
23     Time's A-Wastin' 2:33
Jimmie Lunceford

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1939-1940 | The Classics Chronological Series – 565 (1991) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The Jimmie Lunceford Orchestra was at the height of its power and fame during the period covered by this Classics CD. Arranger-trumpeter Sy Oliver's defection to Tommy Dorsey hurt but his charts were still in the books and his replacement Snooky Young proved to be a superior first trumpeter and soloist. With altoist Willie Smith, Joe Thomas on tenor and trombonist Trummy Young still around as stars, the band was in top form on such numbers as "Uptown Blues," "Lunceford Special," "Bugs Parade," "What's Your Story, Mornin' Glory" and "Swingin' On C." All of the releases in this series are well worth picking up by swing collectors. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Put It Away 2:41
Arranged By – Will Beines
Vocals – Orchestra, Willie Smith
2    I'm Alone With You 2:37
Arranged By – B. Estes
3    Rock It For Me 2:38
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Joe Thomas
4    I'm In An Awful Mood 2:46
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Trummy Young
5    Wham (Re Bop Boom Bam) 2:53
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
Vocals – Orchestra, Willie Smith
6    Pretty Eyes 2:40
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Dan Grissom
7    Uptown Blues    2:53
8    Lunceford Special 2:49
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
9    Bugs Parade 2:29
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
10    Blues In The Groove 2:33
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
11    I Wanta Hear Swing Songs 2:54
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr., Sy Oliver
Vocals – Trummy Young
12    It's Time To Jump And Shout 2:53
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
13    What's Your Story, Mornin' Glory? 3:09
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
14    Dinah (Part I) 2:14
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
15    Dinah (Part II) 2:12
Arranged By – Sy Oliver
Vocals – Joe Thomas
16    Sonata By L. Van Beethoven ("Pathetique" Op. 13) 3:16
Arranged By – Chappie Willett
17    I Got It 2:55
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Trummy Young
18    Chopin's Prelude N°7 2:49
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr., Jimmie Lunceford
19    Swingin' On C 2:22
Arranged By – Eddie Durham
20    Let's Try Again 3:03
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Dan Grissom
21    Monotony In Four Flats 2:53
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
22    Barefoot Blues 2:43
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Willie Smith
23    Minnie The Moocher Is Dead 2:28
Arranged By – Roger Segure
24    I Ain't Gonna Study War No More 2:55
Arranged By – Roger Segure
25    Pavanne 2:48
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Credits :    
Bass – Moses Allen
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone – Dan Grissom
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone – Earl Carruthers, Willie Smith
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Flute – Ted Buckner
Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone, Flute – Joe Thomas
Drums, Vibraphone – Jimmy Crawford
Guitar – Al Norris
Piano, Celesta – Edwin Wilcox
Trombone – Elmer Crumbley, Russell Bowles, James "Trummy" Young
Trumpet – Gerald Wilson (tracks: 9 to 25), Paul Webster, Eugene "Snooky" Young, Sy Oliver (tracks: 1 to 8)
Vocals – The Dandridge Sisters (tracks: 22 to 25)

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1940-1941 | The Classics Chronological Series – 622 (1992) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The European Classics label's Jimmie Lunceford series has thus far stopped with this release, one CD short of completing its task. With the loss of arranger-trumpet-vocalist Sy Oliver, Lunceford's band was still pretty strong although it was no longer developing as quickly as it had previously. During the year and a half covered by this CD, such numbers as "Whatcha Know, Joe," "Siesta at the Fiesta," "Yard Dog Mazurka" and the two-part "Blues in the Night" were recorded along with lesser material (including some dreary vocal features for Dan Grissom). Although not essential, this CD is recommended to Lunceford completists. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Whatcha Know Joe? 2:36
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Vocals – Orchestra, Trummy Young
2    Red Wagon 2:30
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Vocals – The Dandridge Sisters
3    You Ain't Nowhere 2:52
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Vocals – Orchestra, The Dandridge Sisters
4    Please Say The Word 2:37
Arranged By – Lonnie Wilfong
Vocals – Dan Grissom
5    Okay For Baby 3:06
Arranged By – Lonnie Wilfong
6    Flight Of The Jitterbug 2:27
Arranged By – Don Redman
7    Blue Afterglow 3:09
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Vocals – Dan Grissom
8    Blue Prelude 2:56
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Vocals – Dan Grissom
9    Twenty-Four Robbers 3:08
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Vocals – Orchestra, Trummy Young
10    I Had A Premonition 2:54
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
Vocals – Dan Grissom
11    Battle Axe 2:44
Arranged By – Billy Moore, Jr.
12    Peace And Love For All (Prayer For Moderns) 3:11
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Violin – Al Norris
Vocals – Dan Grissom
13    Chocolate 2:53
Arranged By – Roger Segure
14    I'm Walking Through Heaven With You 3:08
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
15    You're Always In My Dreams 2:41
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
16    Flamingo 3:00
Arranged By – Roger Segure
Vocals – Dan Grissom
17    Siesta At The Fiesta    2:56
18    Gone 3:04
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
19    Hi Spook 2:53
Arranged By – Gerald Wilson
20    Yard Dog Mazurka 3:11
Arranged By – Gerald Wilson, Roger Segure
21    Impromptu 2:49
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
22    Blues In The Night - Part 1 2:36
Vocals – Orchestra, Willie Smith
23    Blues In The Night - Part 2 2:45
Vocals – Orchestra, Willie Smith
Credits :    
Bass – Moses Allen
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone – Dan Grissom, Ted Buckner
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone – Earl Carruthers, Willie Smith
Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone – Joe Thomas
Directed By – Jimmie Lunceford
Drums, Vibraphone – Jimmy Crawford
Guitar – Al Norris
Piano, Celesta – Edwin Wilcox
Trombone – Elmer Crumbley, Russell Bowles, James "Trummy" Young
Trumpet – Gerald Wilson, Paul Webster, Eugene "Snooky" Young

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1941-1945 | The Classics Chronological Series – 862 (1996) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Jimmie Lunceford's Orchestra was starting to decline during the period covered by this 1996 CD from the European Classics label. There are nine numbers (including a two-part "I'm Gonna Move to the Outskirts of Town") that feature the 1941-42 orchestra, which still included trombonist Trummy Young (who has three vocals, including "Easy Street"), altoist Willie Smith, and tenorman Joe Thomas; unfortunately, Dan Grissom takes three dull vocals, and there is only one instrumental, the accurately titled "Strictly Instrumental." The second half of the set is from 1944-45, and although there are a couple worthwhile tracks (most memorably the two-part "Back Door Stuff" and "Jeep Rhythm"), Joe Thomas was the only major soloist remaining. The music overall is historic, but not as essential as Jimmie Lunceford's earlier performances. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    I'm Losing My Mind (Because Of You) 3:18
Vocals – Dan Grissom
2    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Life Is Fine 2:39
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Orchestra, Trummy Young
3    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    It Had To Be You 3:07
Arranged By – Tadd Dameron
Vocals – Dan Grissom, Joe Thomas, Trummy Young, Willie Smith
4    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    I'm Gonna Move To The Outskirts Of Town - Part 1 3:09
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
5    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    I'm Gonna Move To The Outskirts Of Town - Part 2 2:56
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Dan Grissom
6    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Strictly Instrumental 2:36
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
7    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Knock Me A Kiss 3:00
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Willie Smith
8    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Keep Smilin', Keep Laughin', Be Happy 2:20
Arranged By – Harry "Pee Wee" Jackson
Vocals – Joe Thomas
9    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    I Dream A Lot About You 3:07
Arranged By – Tadd Dameron
Vocals – Dan Grissom
10    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Easy Street 2:58
Arranged By – Edwin Wilcox
Vocals – Trummy Young
11    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Back Door Stuff - Part 1 3:08
Arranged By – Roger Segure
12    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Back Door Stuff - Part 2 2:46
Arranged By – Roger Segure
13    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Jeep Rhythm 2:54
Arranged By – Horace Henderson
14    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    I'm Gonna See My Baby 2:57
Vocals – Orchestra
15    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    That Someone Must Be You 2:52
Vocals – Claude Trenier
16    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    I'm In A Jam With Baby 3:03
Vocals – Bill Darnell
17    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    Buzz-Buzz-Buzz 2:25
Vocals – Claude Trenier
18    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra–    This Is My Confession To You    3:02
19    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra And Delta Rhythm Boys–    Baby, Are You Kiddin'? 3:00
Vocals – The Delta Rhythm Boys
20    Jimmie Lunceford And His Orchestra And Delta Rhythm Boys–    The Honeydripper 2:44
Vocals – The Delta Rhythm Boys
Credits :    
Alto Saxophone – Chauncey Jarrett (tracks: 11 to 13), Kirkland Bradford (tracks: 14 to 20)
Bass – Moses Allen (tracks: 1 to 5), Charles "Truck" Parham (tracks: 6 to 20)
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone – Dan Grissom (tracks: 1 to 10), Omer Simeon (tracks: 11 to 20), Ted Buckner (tracks: 1 to 5)
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone – Earl Carruthers, Willie Smith (tracks: 1 to 10)
Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone – Joe Thomas
Directed By – Jimmie Lunceford
Drums – Joe Marshall (tracks: 11 to 20)
Drums, Vibraphone – Jimmy Crawford (tracks: 1 to 10)
Guitar – Al Norris (tracks: 1 to 13), John Mitchell (tracks: 14 to 20)
Piano, Celesta – Edwin Wilcox
Tenor Saxophone – Benny Waters (tracks: 6 to 10), Ernest Purce (tracks: 11 to 20)
Trombone – Earl Hardy (tracks: 11 to 20), Elmer Crumbley (tracks: 1 to 5), Fernando Arbello (tracks: 6 to 20), James Williams (tracks: 19, 20), John "Streamline" Ewing (tracks: 11 to 20), Russell Bowles (tracks: 1 to 13), James "Trummy" Young (tracks: 1 to 10)
Trumpet – Bob Mitchell (tracks: 6 to 13, 19 to 20), Charles "Chuck" Stewart (tracks: 19, 20), Freddy Webster (tracks: 6 to 10), Gerald Wilson (tracks: 1 to 5), Harry "Pee Wee" Jackson (tracks: 6 to 10), Melvin Moore (tracks: 11 to 18), Paul Webster (tracks: 1 to 10), Ralph Griffin (tracks: 14 to 18), Russell Green (tracks: 11 to 20), Eugene "Snooky" Young (tracks: 1 to 5), William "Chiefie" Scott (tracks: 11 to 20)

JIMMIE LUNCEFORD AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1945-1947 | The Classics Chronological Series – 1082 (1999) FLAC (tracks), lossless

After a lengthy run of carefully laid-out chronological Lunceford, the folks at Classics gathered up material that wasn't included in the previous volumes and laid it out as a prelude to the very last of the records made by this excellent big band under Lunceford's leadership. Whatever the reasons were for the inconsistent chronology, this bag of remnants forms an interesting encapsulation of Lunceford's last years. The core sample opens with five previously unissued Decca recordings, the first dating from December of 1944. This pre-dates the range of years as stated in the CD's title, but who's counting. The serious problem involves Sy Oliver's departure from the band in 1939 and Lunceford's quest for stylistic stability from that point onwards. One tactic involved sentimental vocalists, some of them much less hip than singing tenor man Joe Thomas. Speaking of saxophones, this band had a wicked reed section and a justifiably famous load of brass on top. Four V-Disc sides show off all of the ensemble's best qualities. Finally we come to the Lunceford band's Majestic recordings, which are a gas. Slim Gaillard's "Cement Mixer" is nearly as delightful as the original. There is a similarly spiffed group vocal on "Sit Back and Ree-Lax (With Your Battle Ax)." In addition to several remakes of earlier Lunceford hits, this disc contains no less than three different versions of Eddie Wilcox's "I Need a Lift." By the time you get to the Majestic take, you'll be able to sing along with the band. Trummy Young practically whispers his way across a thoroughly cool portrait of "Margie," and Joe Thomas handles three more topical treats, including a funny, rocking theatrical take on "Call the Police," a song most commonly associated with the King Cole Trio. Lunceford's version has shouts from the band and more than a few blasts on a police whistle. Thomas also contributed "Shut-Out," a hard-boiled bit of swing with a particularly strong rhythm component. "Water Faucet" is a stupid, shameless imitation of "Cement Mixer" burdened by a lot of slapstick dialogue with all the dignity of a Fatty Arbuckle skit. A volcanic "One O'Clock Jump" (with a fade-out!) finishes off this grab bag of uncommon Lunceford, pointing the way to the next part of the story. This consists of recordings made after Jimmie Lunceford's death, with the orchestra under the direction of Ed Wilcox and Joe Thomas. arwulf arwulf  
Tracklist :
1    Oh Gee, Oh Gosh 2:38
2    I Passed Through Memphis Last Night 2:55
3    I Need A Lift 2:51
4    Where's The Melody 2:32
5    I've Got The Carolina Blues 2:57
6    The Jimmies 3:30
7    I Need A Lift 2:30
8    For Dancers Only 2:28
9    What To Do 3:06
10    Cement Mixer 2:44
11    Just Once Too Often 3:05
12    Jay Gee 2:44
13    Sit Back And Ree-Lax 2:37
14    The "Jimmies" 2:59
15    I Need A Lift 2:33
16    Them Who Has Gets 2:55
17    Margie 3:05
18    Four Or Five Times 3:16
19    Shut-Out (Close Out) 2:39
20    Call The Police 3:01
21    Water Faucet 2:39
22    One O'Clock Jump 3:11