A good swing trombonist,
Rex Allen heads an octet for this live session for the German Nagel-Hayer label. Trombonist
Dan Barrett sticks exclusively to trumpet and plays quite effectively; tenorman
Harry Allen is a strong asset;
Jim Rothermel switches between clarinet, alto and soprano; the rhythm section is comprised of guitarist
Bucky Pizzarelli, pianist
Mark Shane, bassist
Frank Tate and drummer Gregor Beck; and Terrie Richards contributes a few worthy vocals. Unlike most of the other releases from this label, many of the ensembles are arranged, but the music overall swings. The repertoire emphasizes 1930s/'40s swing-era songs, including "Back Bay Shuffle," "Opus One," "Stompin' at the Savoy" and a
Duke Ellington medley, with the proceedings concluding with "Flying Home." ~ Scott Yanow