Customer Reviews

1938-39

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This is an excellent compilation of Ziggy Elman's "own" recording sessions. At the time (1938-39) Ziggy was a valuable member of Benny Goodman's brass section, and this CD has Ziggy's headlining his own group -- which features most of the Benny Goodman band! The clarinet-free, strictly instrumental arrangements showcase Ziggy's terrific trumpet, with fine backing from the reeds and rhythm. Many of the tunes are old standards ("Am I Blue," "I'm Through with Love," etc.) but the performances are fresh and original. "Deep Night," once a languid Rudy Vallee chestnut, gets new bounce and spark, for example. Other highlights include "I'll Never Be the Same," "Fralich in Swing" (almost identical to the Goodman version of "And the Angels Sing" except for the coda), and especially "Let's Fall in Love," which deserves a hand for the jump arrangement and the tight saxophone section, with Ziggy Elman's soaring trumpet leading the pack. Fidelity is quite good, although some of these sides are evidently quite rare, so very occasionally the sound quality betrays a slightly shopworn 78-rpm master. But it's great listening for big-band fans. If you like Benny Goodman's band, you ought to check out these Elman sessions.

This is one of the BEST of the Big Band Era. I play it at home and car. It features songs from the 30's.I found it very good listening music and well as background music. I is a great bargain.