This release is an excellent compilation of
Krupa's solo work in the mid-'50s, mostly with small ensembles -- so don't look for a version of "Sing, Sing, Sing" here. There are many notable guest appearances. "Drummin' Man" and "Let Me Off Uptown" were arranged by
Quincy Jones and feature
Anita O'Day on vocals and
Roy Eldridge on trumpet. Pianist
Teddy Wilson,
Krupa's old pal from days with
Benny Goodman's band, appears on several tracks. Fellow
Goodman alum
Lionel Hampton plays vibes on "Just You, Just Me," while tenor saxophonist
Ben Webster plays on "Imagination" and "Swedish Schnapps." Trumpeter
Charlie Shavers plays on several songs and provides arrangements for "Swedish Schnapps" and "Who's Rhythm," while
Gerry Mulligan contributes arrangements on "Disc Jockey Jump" and the appropriately titled "Mulligan Stew." Of course, there are plenty of
Krupa drum solos, especially on "Drummin' Man," "Gene's Solo Flight," and the self-penned "Gene's Blues." All this makes this a great choice as an introduction to this all-time drum master. ~ Steven Jacobetz