Clancy Hayes, a fine banjoist who originally came to fame with
Lu Watters' Yerba Buena Jazz Band in the 1940s, was a rarity. Unlike most Dixieland-oriented musicians who choose to sing,
Hayes' likable voice was quite strong; he always swung and his winning personality made his singing a high point whenever he appeared. He recorded frequently with
Bob Scobey in the 1950s and led five albums of his own during 1960-1966. This CD reissue from 1964 matches
Hayes with
the Salty Dogs, a hot septet that features cornetist Lew Green, trombonist
Jim Snyder, clarinetist
Kim Cusack, and
Jim Dapogny (best known as a pianist) on second cornet and valve trombone.
Hayes' nine vocal numbers (which all have heated ensembles and plenty of colorful solos by his sidemen) are joined by three instrumentals plus six new alternate takes. Among the happier performances are "Oh! By Jingo," "Rose of Washington Square," "Beale Street Blues," "Cakewalking Babies," and "My Little Bimbo." The consistently strong musicianship, the enthusiastic playing and singing, the excellent material, and
Clancy Hayes' memorable voice make this a set that trad jazz collectors will want to go out of their way to pick up.