While European labels (most notably Classics and Masters of Jazz) reissue every
Jimmie Lunceford recording, its domestic counterpart as usual only gives consumers best-of collections. This CD is actually quite good, consisting of highlights from
Lunceford's first year with Decca and serving as a fine introduction to his orchestra's music. Nearly all of the 21 numbers are excellent, and among the more colorful selections are reworkings of three
Duke Ellington tunes, "Miss Otis Regrets," "Dream of You," two versions of the bubbly "Rhythm Is Our Business," and "Sleepy-Time Gal," which has a remarkable sax section chorus. ~ Scott Yanow