This spirited set features
Sammy Rimington's band being joined by guest bassist
Arvell Shaw and the great trumpeter
Doc Cheatham.
Rimington switches between clarinet (with some traces of his earlier
George Lewis influence), alto, and tenor, sounding pretty effective in the New Orleans style. However
Cheatham (who takes three vocals) is the main star, taking plenty of dramatic trumpet solos (his perfect placing of notes recalls
Louis Armstrong although he displays a different sound) and largely stealing the show. With assistance from trombonist
Jerry Zigmont, pianist
Jon Marks, and drummer John Russell, the results are quite enjoyable. Highlights include "Clarinet Marmalade," "My Buddy," "Sweethearts on Parade," and "Struttin' with Some Barbecue."