Sy Oliver

During the 1950s and '60s, arranger Sy Oliver's groups reflected their leader's loyalty to the swing era and lack of interest in newer jazz styles. This audiophile CD from Mobile Fidelity reissues two rare Oliver albums that were originally recorded as radio transcriptions. The 24 concise performances range from folk melodies -- such as "Oh, Them Golden Slippers," "l'm a Little Teapot," and "Arkansas Traveler" -- to swing compositions. Trumpeter Charlie Shavers is the star of the earlier set, while the tenor of Budd Johnson takes honors on the second session. Overall the music is a bit lightweight but enjoyable enough. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi