This package finds the orchestra poised for greatness just prior to switching to RCA. Bassist
Jimmy Blanton was now in the band, tenor saxophonist
Ben Webster was aboard by the second half of this set, and such longtime stars as trumpeter
Cootie Williams, cornetist
Rex Stewart, trombonists Tricky Sam Nanton and Lawrence Brown, clarinetist
Barney Bigard and altoist
Johnny Hodges were very much in their prime. Tracks with
Cab Calloway are also included. ~ Scott Yanow