The Radio Years 1940-1945 Review

07/13/2005 7:08 AM, AMG


This CD, available through Jazz Unlimited's parent company Storyville, consists of a pair of radio broadcasts by Cab Calloway's Orchestra. Of particular interest is the earlier date, for in 1940, the young Dizzy Gillespie was Calloway's regular trumpet soloist. Dizzy has short spots on several of the numbers, and one can hear him constantly stretching himself harmonically, probably to Calloway's consternation. Other soloists include the great swing tenor Chu Berry and trombonist Keg Johnson; highlights include "Limehouse Blues," "Fifteen Minute Intermission," and "King Porter Stomp." The 1945 aircheck also has its moments, thanks to Calloway, trumpeter Jonah Jones, and tenorman Ike Quebec; the repertoire includes "Russian Lullaby," "St. Louis Blues," and "9:20 Special." Both broadcasts are well recorded for the era. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide