Ray Bauduc

The cover of this LP depicts stereotyped beatniks from the late '50s and is quite humorous. But do not look for flutes, bongos, or even Charlie Parker-type bebop on the album. In fact, the music, fairly standard Dixieland, was not a style that beatniks even bothered with. However, the music, co-led by ex-Bob Crosby sidemen Ray Bauduc (on drums) and guitarist/singer Nappy LaMare, is pretty good overall. Key soloists include trumpeter Mannie Klein, Jackie Coon on mellophone, clarinetist Gene Bolen, trombonist Rolly Furnas, and tenor saxophonist Eddie Miller. Other than the original "Coffee House Rag," the tunes are all standards, including "Papa's Gone, Goodbye," "Baby, Won't You Please Come Home," "Savoy Blues," and "Love Is Just Around the Corner." This obscure album, which is well-worth getting for the album jacket alone, has not yet been reissued on CD. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide