1944-1945

• Artist: Boyd Raeburn
• Rating:
• Release Date: 1994
• Total Time: 57:32
• Type: Compilation (best of)
• Genre: Jazz

Review

The second of two Circle CDs featuring the 1944 Boyd Raeburn Orchestra's transcriptions for Lang-Worth has arrangements by Eddie Finckel, George Williams, Milt Klee, Johnny Mandel and one from George Handy. Raeburn's big band would become much more adventurous later in 1945 but there are some strong moments throughout this set, particularly "Is You Is or Is You Ain't Ma Baby" (which features the vocal of trombonist Trummy Young), "Two Spoos in an Igloo" and two appearances for guest trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie ("Barefoot Boy with Cheek" and a vocal version of "A Night in Tunisia" called "Interlude"). There are also some period vocals by Don Darcy and Marjorie Woods and a few features for the Johnny Hodges-inspired alto of Johnny Bothwell. This is fine late period swing music although not as unique as Raeburn's recordings of the next two years. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi

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