There are two unusual aspects to this trad jazz set: the instrumentation and the repertoire. There are not that many clarinet-trombone-guitar-drums quartets in New Orleans jazz but this combination works. Guitarist
Ron Simpson not only fulfills the role of a rhythm guitar but also that of a bass, showing that his instrument really can be a rhythm section by itself. With leader-drummer
Barry Martyn keeping a quiet but steady rhythm, clarinetist
Chris Burke often functions as the lead voice although trombonist
Wendell Eugene is also quite capable of playing the melody when required. As for the repertoire, few Dixieland dates include such songs as "Tico Tico," "Pennsylvania Polka," "September Song," "Blue Hawaii" and "Something Stupid." But it has always been true that nearly any song can fit into this freewheeling setting and once the CD begins, listeners will not hear any tunes that sound out of place. The end result is an enjoyable set of hot jazz, one that is a consistent and joyful success.