This 1990 CD has previously unreleased performances from two versions of the Bob Crosby Orchestra in the 1950's. Although not "the most popular orchestra of the 1950s" (as claimed on its back cover), the
Crosby ensemble was still pretty strong, although no longer a full-time big band. The 16 performances often sound as if the applause was added later on. The leader has four OK vocals;
Polly Bergen guests on a slow rendition of "Let's Fall in Love," and
June Christy sings "Love Is Just Around the Corner" and "Willow Weep for Me." More important, though, are the many soloists, who include tenor saxophonist
Eddie Miller, clarinetist
Matty Matlock (who may be responsible for some of the arrangements), trumpeters
Charlie Teagarden and Dick Catchart, and (on the earlier dates) trombonist
Jack Teagarden, who has "Lover" as his showcase. Among the other selections recorded by the spirited Dixieland-oriented big band are "Ostrich Walk," "Over the Waves," "Wolverine Blues" and "Skater's Waltz." A rarity that
Bob Crosby fans will want.