Usually recordings by college stage bands are to be avoided by all but close relatives since the illusion of professionalism heard in the well-rehearsed ensembles is constantly punctured by amateurish solos. However this CD features flugelhornist Clark Terry and
Frank Wess (doubling on flute and tenor) on half of the selections and the orchestra (under the direction of
Bob Lark) is fairly strong. The big band interprets a dozen songs from the
Count Basie repertoire (plus "Winter Wonderland") with solid swing and good musicianship. Still, it is the numbers with Terry and Wess that are of greatest interest and the real reason to acquire this set. ~ Scott Yanow