Jack Teagarden

Jack Teagarden leads a strong octet in this October 1954 studio date, which previously was available as a Jazz Kings LP. Most of the music will be well-known to Teagarden fans, with the trombonist also adding his warm vocals on "After You've Gone" (which showcases solos by nearly everyone) as well as "Stars Fell on Alabama," "St. James Infirmary," and "A Hundred Years From Today." Teagarden's improvised blues "Blue and Esoteric" and a rather long but very brisk take of "Lover" also merit attention. The excellent cast of supporting musicians includes trumpeter Ruby Braff, tenor saxophonist Lucky Thompson, clarinetist Sol Yaged, and a rhythm section with Ken Kersey, Milt Hinton, and Denzil Best, along with the obscure guitarist Sidney Gross. Long out of print until the appearance of this 1997 CD reissue, this release will unfortunately become hard to find once again due to the demise of the Drive label. ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide