Customer Reviews

VGBG - By: , 13 Sep 2003
Just after WWII many big bands were, for a number of reasons, unable to carry on.

The first fourteen selections here reflect that trend & find the awesomely talented & former child prodigy Goodmanin the company of pianists Teddy Wilson & Jimmy Rowles to fine effectin 1947.

He seems as at home here as he sounds leading his tremendous big band. He & Wilson are evidently enjoying each others' company on the medium-tempo selections 'Shoe Shine Boy' & 'I'll Never Be The Same', & the collaborations with Rowles are highlighted by a lovely soft version of 'When You're Smiling'. It is a joy to hear Goodman explore what his instrument can doin the hands of a master. Just allow yourself to be amazed by the wonderful & breakneck takes of 'All I Do Is Dream Of You'.

There are six tunes recorded some years later (in 1954). Pianist Mel Powell here again provides appropriately adroit accompaniment which is a wonder to hear. They work extremely well together. 'There'll Be Some Changes Made' is great trio fun.

Another side of the great big-band giant, & well worth having!