The
Pete Fountain-inspired clarinetist
Tim Laughlin and multi-reedist Tom Fischer (tripling on clarinet, soprano and alto) from
Banu Gibson's band team up on this exuberant Dixieland set. With fine support from John Royen (an excellent stride pianist), rhythm guitarist Hank Mackie, bassist Al Bernard and drummer Hal Smith (who takes a few decent vocals), the two reeds are in excellent form. The main fault of the disc is the rather clichéd material. Does one really need new versions of "Basin St. Blues," "St. James Infirmary," "Memories of You" and "Sweet Georgia Brown," especially when these interpretations add nothing to each song's legacy? However, overall, the music is enjoyable, if lacking in surprises. ~ Scott Yanow