This recording was not only
Louis Armstrong's finest record of the 1950s but one of the truly classic jazz sets.
Armstrong and his
All-Stars (trombonist
Trummy Young, clarinetist
Barney Bigard, pianist
Billy Kyle, bassist
Arvell Shaw, drummer
Barrett Deems, and singer
Velma Middleton) were clearly inspired by the fresh repertoire, 11 songs written by
W.C. Handy. Their nearly nine-minute version of "St. Louis Blues" -- with witty vocals, roaring
Young trombone, and a couple of long majestic trumpet solos -- is arguably the greatest version of the oft-recorded song. Other highlights include "Loveless Love," "Beale Street Blues," and a romping version of "Ole Miss Blues." Essential music for all serious jazz collections. [Some reissues also include rehearsal versions of three songs,
Louis Armstrong telling a joke, and a brief
George Avakian interview with
W.C. Handy.] ~ Scott Yanow