This is one of trumpeter
Harry James's better dates from the 1960s, an indifferent period for his recordings. He performs
Charles Albertine's five-part "Blues Ballet" and five numbers arranged (and four composed) by
Ernie Wilkins. Although the tenors of
Sam Firmature and
Modesto Briseno get to solo on "The Jazz Connoisseur," the emphasis is on the leader's trumpet and the full ensemble of the orchestra. The music swings but is not all that memorable despite
James's temporary success at avoiding playing nostalgia and recreations.