Very Alive at Ronnie Scott's is the European version of the 1972 U.S. single-LP called
Buddy Rich in London . In England and in the rest of Europe it was released as a double album and that is reflected in this beautifully remastered double-CD by BGO. The 1972 lineup of
Rich's band featured arrangements by no less than
Oliver Nelson and
Herbie Phillips. The main soloist (beside the drummer himself) is saxophonist/flutist
Pat La Barbera, with big contributions from trombonist
Bruce Paulson, pianist
Bob Dogan, and trumpeter
Lin Biviano. Other bandmembers include saxophonists
Joe Calo and
Jimmy Mosher, master conguero
Candido, and guitarist
David Spinozza. "That's Enough" is a lone vocal number for
Kathy Rich and
Michelle and
Carlene Hendricks, and it's a barn burner. Other highlights include "Dancing Men," "Two Bass Hit," "Little Train," "Milestones," and "In a Mellow Tone." This baby is a smoker from start to finish.