Jack Maheu

A fine clarinetist whose playing on this CD sometimes recalls Pete Fountain's, Jack Maheu is heard in top form throughout the continually intriguing set. Some of the selections use an expanded New Orleans jazz group with the size of the band differing from track to track, ranging from a quartet on "Emaline" to a ten-piece ensemble on "Running Wild." Trumpeter Kevin Clark's colorful arrangements give the program is own personality and make this project a standout. Among the other key sidemen are cornetist Charles Fardella, pianist Tom McDermott and a variety of lesser-known players; Big Al Carson has goodtime vocals on three numbers. The highlights include "Cakewalkin' Babies from Home," a romping version of "Clarinet Marmalade," "Do You Ever Think of Me" and "Choppin' Sticks" which is a dixiefied version of "Chopsticks." Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide