Best Of The Big Bands

構成数 : 1枚
合計収録時間 : 00:46:32
Cab Calloway's eccentric personality and wild onstage antics often overshadowed his musical contributions, when in fact, as this superb Columbia sampler demonstrates, the two went hand in hand. On all-time classic tracks like "The Jumpin' Jive," "Reefer Man," and the inexhaustible "Minnie the Moocher," the Hi-Di-Ho man's exuberance and vitality as a performer is grounded by his tight bandleading and the outstanding playing of his orchestra (which, over the years, included such greats as Dizzy Gillespie, Eddie Barefield and Chu Berry). Brought to the forefront on tunes like "Pickin' Up the Cabbage" and "Bye Bye Blues," which features outstanding trumpet and vibraphone spots, the ensemble plays in classic Duke Ellington big band swing mode (the Duke is honored here on a cover of "Take the A Train"); but it's Calloway's accomplished, distinctive vocals that deserve real notice here. His fluent scats, his irresistible call and response segments, and the rapid, elastic phrasing on tunes like "Beale Street Mama," prove he's more than a mere showman. This BEST OF THE BIG BANDS installment is an excellent showcase for the talents of this 20th century legend.
録音 : モノラル (Studio)