In December 1950,
Russell nearly died from the effects of years of excessive drinking and limited eating. By the time of the Boston engagement that resulted in this double LP, he was 90 percent recovered. Leading a strong sextet that boasted fine solos from trombonist
Eph Resnick and the great young trumpeter
Ruby Braff,
Russell performs mostly veteran, Dixieland standards during these extended workouts, avoiding clichés and playing his typically unique ideas with spirit and enthusiasm.