This previously unissued program (released on a 1995 CD by the British Upbeat label) features one of the more famous versions of trumpeter Ken Colyer's Jazzmen in prime form. The recording quality is not flawless, but the spirit of the often ensemble-oriented music certainly shines through.
Colyer teams up with clarinetist
Ian Wheeler, trombonist Mac Duncan, pianist
Ray Foxley, banjoist Johnny Bastable, bassist
Ron Ward and drummer
Colin Bowden for stirring versions of a variety of Dixieland standards -- including "Milenberg Joys," "When You Wore a Tulip" and "Doctor Jazz" -- plus a few lesser-known but familiar-sounding tunes ("Mazie," "Up Jumped the Devil" and "Moose March"). The performances contain plenty of life and joy. ~ Scott Yanow