Unlike the earlier editions of the Newport All-Stars, the 1969 group leaned much more heavily toward swing and elements of bop than to dixieland. In addition to pianist
George Wein and cornetist
Ruby Braff, the band heard on this Atlantic Lp includes vibraphonist
Red Norvo, both
Tal Farlow and
Barney Kessel on guitars, bassist Larry Ridley and drummer Don Lamond. Highlights include "In A Little Spanish Town," "Ja-Da," "My Melancholy Baby," "Exactly Like You" and even the pop tune "Sunny";
Braff's passion alone makes this a worthy release. ~ Scott Yanow