DIZZY GILLESPIE AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1949-1950 | The Classics Chronological Series – 1168 (2003) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

This entry in the Classics label Chronological series features the final recordings by Dizzy Gillespie's 1940s big band, a few jump jazz titles geared toward the R&B market, and a session in which Dizzy's trumpet is backed by a string section arranged by Johnny Richards. It is definitely a mixed bag. The big band titles are generally weak ("You Stole My Wife, You Horsethief" would never be considered a classic), as Gillespie tried hard to come up with a hit to save his orchestra. The jump titles are more fun, with "She's Gone Again" being particularly catchy. Richards' string arrangements are not very creative, although Gillespie plays well throughout. This set is not without interest overall, but is mostly for Dizzy completists and is far from essential. Scott Yanow  Tracklist :