Kenny Davern has since at least the late '60s been one of jazz's finest trad/swing clarinetists. This particular date teams him with bassist
Bob Haggart, guitarist
Howard Alden, drummer
Bobby Rosengarden, and up to 11 strings.
Haggart provided the arrangements and two of his songs ("My Inspiration" and "Dogtown Blues") to a relaxed set that often borders on easy listening. With the exception of a couple faster pieces, the tempos tend to be at best medium-slow with
Davern playing melodically and the strings added for sweetening. Although the music is quite pleasing, nothing unexpected occurs and the results often border on the forgettable despite some fine clarinet solos. ~ Scott Yanow