Eddie Condon

This two-CD set, as is true of the other very valuable releases in the Eddie Condon Town Hall series (which had never before been reissued complete and in chronological order), features four well-recorded radio shows that logically showcase the individual members of Condon's remarkable all-star groups. These Dixielandish (but never corny or overly predictable) performances are generally exciting and the verbal commentary of Eddie Condon adds to the flavor and wit of the music. And check out this lineup of musicians: trumpeters Billy Butterfield, Bobby Hackett, Max Kaminsky and Muggsy Spanier, trombonist Miff Mole, baritonist Ernie Caceres, clarinetists Edmond Hall and Pee Wee Russell, pianists James P. Johnson, Jess Stacy and Gene Schroeder, bassists Bob Haggart, Sid Weiss and Jack Lesberg, drummers Cozy Cole, Joe Grauso and Gene Krupa and singers Red McKenzie and Lee Wiley. The spontaneous yet well-planned performances find the classic players in peak form and the results are quite memorable. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide