Three major New Orleans-style clarinetists are featured on this CD during performances from the 1950s.
Albert Nicholas is heard in France on five selections with the orchestra of André Réwéliotty.
Nicholas is in prime form and it is a pity that the other musicians are unidentified for they are excellent.
Edmond Hall is quite explosive on seven selections with a quartet that features the brilliant stride pianist
Ralph Sutton broadcasting from San Francisco's Hangover Club. Those are the most familiar performances on this CD but well worth hearing again for this was one of
Hall's finest showcases. The final six selections have
George Lewis teamed with cornetist P.T. Stanton, banjoist Dick Oxtot, and bassist Leias Sharpton. The music occasionally slips slightly out of tune but the charm and creative ensembles win one over; singer
Barbara Dane is a strong asset on two numbers. Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow