The Bay City Jazz Band is the 1956 self-titled album by the band of the same name. Originally released on the Good Time Jazz, this was released on CD in 1994 by Original Jazz Classics/Fantasy Jazz and is remastered by Phil De Lancie.
The Bay City Jazz Band at the time of this, their debut recording, were on average between 21 and 25 years of age. Firmly entrenched as standard-bearers of the San Francisco scene started a few years earlier by Lu Watters' Yerba Buene Jazz Band, the BCJB were masters of ensemble playing, blending in a way that few trad Dixieland bands seldom accomplish. The band shines brightly on Louis Armstrong's "My Heart," "Alligator Blues," and "Potato Head Blues." Given equally fine treatment are King Oliver's "Doctor Jazz," and "Snake Rag." Though not a big name, the BCJB nonetheless made some mighty fine music; this is a hidden jazz treasure for traditionally minded fans.
1. Arab Strut
2. Alligator Blues
3. My Heart
4. Yerba Buena Blues
5. How'm I Gonna Do It (If I Don't Know What It Is That You Crave)
6. Potato Head Blues
7. Weather Bird Rag
8. Auntie Soshal's Social
9. West Texas Blues
10. Doctor Jazz
11. Beale Street Blues
12. Snake Rag
Recorded at Jenny Lind Hall in Oakland,
CA, March 12, 14 & 15, 1956
CD digitally remastered in 1994 by Phil De Lancie
(Fantasy Studios, Berkeley)
Sanford Newbauer-trombone, co-leader
Everett Farey-cornet, co-leader
Al Cavallin-trumpet
Walt Yost-tuba
Roy Giomi-clarinet
Don Keeler-piano
Tito Patri-banjo
Lloyd Byassee-drums
