LOUIS ARMSTRONG AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1936-1937 | The Classics Chronological Series – 512 (1990) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Continuing the complete chronological reissue of Louis Armstrong's output for Decca during the swing era, this set finds Satch at his most exhibitionistic (hitting dozens of high notes on "Swing That Music"), fronting Jimmy Dorsey's orchestra, doing a "Pennies from Heaven" medley with Bing Crosby, joining in for two collaborations with The Mills Brothers and, on four selections, even making charming (if weird) music with a group of Hawaiians. Not essential but quite enjoyable. Scott Yanow   Tracklist + Credits :

STUFF SMITH – 1944-1946 | The Classics Chronological Series – 1081 (1999) FLAC (tracks), lossless

Violinist Stuff Smith's third Classics CD (which wraps up his dates as a leader prior to the mid-'50s) starts off with 16 numbers from 1944-1946, many of which are rarities. Smith is heard leading various trios (sidemen include pianists Jimmy Jones and Billy Taylor) on music recorded for the Savoy (with Billy Daniels and Rosalie Young having vocals), Baronet, Selmer, Musicraft, and Town & Country labels; Sarah Vaughan sings on "Time and Again." Best is the Selmer date, which has versions of "Perdido," "Bugle Call Rag," and Smith's "Desert Sands." Also included on this CD are Smith's six recordings with Alphonso Trent's notable territory band during 1928-1930 (including classic versions of "After You've Gone" and "St. James Infirmary"). All three Classics Stuff Smith CDs are easily recommended. Scott Yanow     Tracklist + Credits :