Many New Orleans jazz groups from the 1960s and '70s were erratic and often out of tune, using the advanced ages of their musicians as an excuse. This LP is an exception, for all of the veterans (clarinetist Louis Cottrell, trumpeter
Alvin Alcorn, trombonist Waldren "Frog" Joseph, pianist Walter Lewis, bassist Placide Adams and drummer Louis Barbarin) are heard in fine form on Dixieland standards, bringing fresh life even to the warhorses such as "Bill Bailey" and "Muskrat Ramble," playing colorful solos and heated ensembles. Blanche Thomas helps out with two vocals. Recommended to Dixieland and New Orleans jazz fans. ~ Scott Yanow