Orchestral
ERIC COATES "Sound And Vision" Sound And Vision (ATV March), From the Countryside – Suite, Holborn March, Moresque, Four Ways Suite, Valse from "The Three Bears", The Eighth Army March.Music for Voice and Orchestra The Mill O’Dreams, Song of Summer, Your Name, Green Hills of Somerset, I Heard You Singling, The Fairy Tales of Ireland, Bird Songs at Eventide. BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by John Wilson, with Sir Thomas Allen (baritone) and Richard Edgar-Wilson (tenor). Dutton Epoch CDLX 7198 71:03 mins. Michael Dutton’s wonderful support of British music seems to continue unabated. With the major record companies now largely part of huge international conglomerates, the days when the likes of EMI and Decca could be relied upon to foster British composing talent now seem just a distant memory – with the very occasional odd exception. The demise of Sanctuary, and the apparent reduction of new releases from Chandos and Hyperion could well have added to the gloom, were it not for Dutton’s Epoch label. Almost single-handedly this label is providing us with unexpected treats on a regular basis, and it is to be hoped that readers of this magazine are taking full advantage of what is on offer. John Wilson – in a matter of ten years or so – has become one of Britain’s brightest recording talents, and when he is teamed up with the magnificent BBC Concert Orchestra the results are always superb, and quite frequently astounding. The first twelve tracks in this new CD feature Eric Coates as the familiar master of light orchestral music. Where else could one expect to hear such a varied and delightful collection of 20th century music? The remaining ten tracks remind us that Coates launched his career as a writer of popular ballads, although he never completely abandoned the genre since there are two late examples – from 1938 and 1943. No self-respecting lover of Light Music can possibly fail to add this new release to their CD collection. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service.
CONTINENTAL ENCORES/MANTOVANI MANHATTAN
More Than Ever, La Vie En Rose, Under Paris Skies, O Mein Papa, April in Portugal, Arrivederci Roma, Anema e Core, La Mer, I Only Know I Love You, Autumn Leaves, Answer Me, Poppa Piccolino, Give My Regards to Broadway, Autumn in New York, The Bowery, Harlem Nocturne, Slaughter on Tenth Avenue, Manhattan Serenade, Take the ‘A’ Train, Manhattan Lullaby, Maria, Somewhere, The Belle of New York and Tenement Symphony
Mantovani and his orchestra (Vocalion, CDLK 4370), timing 73:04 mins.
Another fine addition to Vocalion’s increasingly comprehensive series of Mantovani reissues. This release compiles two further albums from the light music’s legend vast Decca discography. "Continental Encores" was the very first stereo album I heard (49 years ago!), and its re-emergence on CD will be welcomed as overdue by many Mantovanians, for whom some of the tracks will be among their all-time favourites. Memories of the 1950s are stirred by Papa, Answer and Poppa – all tunes that are unlikely to be heard today. As one might expect, accordionist Emile Charlier is featured throughout. In addition to its musical merits, Colin Mackenzie describes the album in Monty’s biography (Melrose Books) as "technically an excellent recording, well balanced, well miked, in full stereo with a wide deep soundstage."
The second album, from 1964, is also atmospheric with every track a winner – the standouts for me being Cecil Milner’s arrangements of Rodgers Slaughter, Strayhorn’s Train, and The Bowery, a rousing waltz featuring a lovely jangle piano. Among the splendid Roland Shaw arrangements are the jazz-inspired Nocturne and the big final number conjuring up images of winding fire-escapes and TV antennas. The Lullaby is Monty’s own composition, as are the arrangements of the two "West Side Story" pieces.
Peter Burt All Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
LEROY ANDERSON: ORCHESTRAL MUSIC, VOL.1
Bugler’s Holiday, Blue Tango, The First Day of Spring, Belle of the Ball, Clarinet Candy, Chicken Reel, Fiddle-Faddle, China Doll, and more
BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Leonard Slatkin with Geoffrey Biegel, piano [Naxos 8.559313] 61:54 mins
One of the many musical centenaries marked this year is the birth of Leroy Anderson, the American master of light concert music, and here we have a very welcome addition to his discography. Nicely recorded at the Watford Colosseum in 2006, there is a good mix here with a number of familiar tracks as listed above, a couple probably not so well-known: Arietta and the brooding Balladette, and a quartet completely unknown, to me at least: Governor Bradford March [a first recording], The Golden Years, The Captains and the Kings and the Piano Concerto in C Major. Classical Jukebox is not an Anderson original composition but his amusing arrangement of Music! Music! Music!, which was a million seller for Teresa Brewer in the early ‘50s. Older readers may consider this track with its simulated "stuck groove," of unblessed memory, worth the low price of the CD. But the piece that will probably most encourage Anderson aficionados to buy is the 19-minute long concerto. It was first performed in 1953 but was withdrawn following mixed reviews and Anderson’s own dissatisfaction with the first movement. We are told in Richard Ginell’s detailed liner notes that the composer warmed to the work more in his later years and, after his death in 1975, his widow Eleanor decided to release the work as he left it. It is definitely worth a listen – the second and third tracks are both engaging. With the ever versatile BBC Concert Orchestra and its "big name" conductor, this new disc is strongly recommended, even as a supplement to whatever other Anderson albums you may already have. And if you like this … there is more to come.
Peter Burt
LEROY ANDERSON: ORCHESTRAL MUSIC VOLUME TWO
Woodbury Fanfare, A Harvard Festival, Forgotten Dreams, Whistling Kettle, Horse and Buggy, The Waltzing Cat, Home Stretch, The Girl in Satin, March of the Two Left Feet, Waltz Around the Scales, Lullaby of the Drums, Jazz Legato, Jazz Pizzicato, Song of the Bells, Song of Jupiter and Suite of Carols for String Orchestra
BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Leonard Slatkin with Alistair Young, Piano and David McCallum, trumpet (Naxos, 8.559356) 54:51
So here’s more already – the next instalment of pieces including some the composer did not release and which his family have now made available. There are half-a-dozen items, some with very catchy titles that I looked forward to hearing for the first time. Fanfare features four trumpeters, Festival is a revision of the piece that gave Anderson his entrée to the Boston Pops in 1936 and definitely has a ‘classical’ feel, beginning with some telling celli and finishing on a super tune with added organ;Whistling was a student piece for violins and violas of 1:44 mins duration with a sound that reminds me of bagpipes; Waltz was the composer’s very last original orchestral work; and Lullaby is, perhaps, more a gentle march than a lullaby, and I think my favourite among the new items – but then I’m a sucker for the sound (however fleeting) of French horns. Richard Ginell’s expected exemplary notes refer to March, another piece unknown to me, as a ‘madcap fast polka’. Pizzicati, from 1938, is the earliest example of Anderson’s work extant. With a good mix of new, familiar and not-quite-so-familiar items this is another excellent compilation and one can only look forward to more of the same. At under an hour I suppose some may claim short measure, especially with the longest item, Carols (12:27), unlikely to be played a lot at this time of year, but at the price – I paid £3.99 including p&p online – for such a quality product one really can’t complain.
Peter Burt All Naxos CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
STRINGOPATION
Charles Williams – Girls In Grey, Space Ship, Quebec Concerto, Side Walk Exhilaration, The Beggar’s Theme; Philip Green – Ragamuffin, Pan-American Panorama, Running Off The Rails, Spinning Wheel, Stringopation, Gaelic Fantasia; London Promenade Orchestra – Dancing Dolls; Sidney Torch – Cornflakes, Domino, Elfinette, Fiddlin’ For Fun, All Strings and Fancy Free, Guaracha, Speakeasy; Ray Martin – Gipsy Fiddler, Muriella; Frank Chacksfield – Gin Fizz, Pulling Strings; Louis Levy – Moto Perpetuo; Kingsway Symphony Orch / Camarata – I Love Thee. Vocalion CDVS 1954, 73:49 mins. Twenty years ago we would have given our eye teeth to be able to buy a CD like this. The fact that keen collectors will probably have 90% of these titles in their collections speaks volumes for the way in which Light Music has been re-established as an important part of the musical scene. If only the BBC would wake up to what has happened! This is the second collection of Light Music Classics on offer from Michael Dutton at the bargain price of around £3. OK – you don’t get any booklet notes, but just be grateful that you can get your hands on this superb collection of Light Music for such a small sum. Even if you already have most of these tracks, I still recommend a purchase. Personally I like it when someone else selects music for me to hear; familiar favourites somehow seem fresh and new when played in a different order. This is a priceless ‘snapshot’ of the British Light Music scene in the middle of the last century, at a time when it seemed inconceivable that it would go into such decline by the 1980s. Happily that decline has been arrested, and collections like this can only help to alert new generations as to what they might be missing if they only rely upon the radio for their musical enjoyment. David Ades
SIX NEW GUILD RELEASES REVIEWED
Firstly, I must offer my sincere apologies for the lack of any GUILD reviews in JIM 175; this was entirely due to the pressures of earning a living, but I hope to make amends in the following paragraphs.
GLCD 5140 – MUSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE VOLUME II [full tracklisting in JIM 175, page 62]. Hard on the heels of Vol. I – and bearing the next consecutive number – comes its splendid new companion. The beauty of the KALEIDOSCOPE format is that it enables compositions of so many styles, different orchestras and time-eras to be assembled into a very enjoyable programme without any of the constraints which, perforce, are imposed on a ‘themed’ CD. All of the recordings date from the period 1946-1956, surely THE ‘Golden Age’ of Light Orchestral Music. There is a reasonable mix of Commercial and Publishers’ material, roughly ⅓rd and ⅔rds respectively. The selection begins appropriately enough with another composition entitled Kaleidoscope, (this one being by Dolf van der Linden) and includes a few real gems of a slightly more ‘serious’ nature, e.g. the Overture Down The Solent (Rapley), the Theme from the film The Broken Horseshoe (W. Burns), Sea Reivers andOriental Dances (G. Bantock), Columbine (Leighton Lucas) and three pieces from Edward McDowell’sWoodland Sketches – (but curiously not this composer’s best known tune To A Wild Rose, which is taken from that suite). Worthy of particular mention is Bewitched (Rodgers and Hart) by Felix King, his piano and orchestra; this appears to be a note-for-note replication of the famous Bill Snyder c. 1949 interpretation of the well-known song from the show Pal Joey. Was this a deliberate attempt to produce a British ‘cover version’ of the USA hit recording, bearing in mind that it was then virtually impossible to obtain 78s from the States, due to post WWII import restrictions? On a lighter note, there are some old favourites, like Maurice Grew’s Jay Walker and George Melachrino’s Bobby Sox Bounce. There is a group of ‘shorts’ – pieces which would often be used in film and TV advertising and promotional features, and the disc concludes with four items under the heading Drama, Menace and Excitement. (Any resemblance to RFS meetings is purely coincidental!). These were used in melodramatic and even horrific moments in drama productions – e.g. Trevor Duncan’s Inhumanity, which was the closing music for the first two series of the famous 50s BBC TV serial Quatermass. I am bound to say that this particular format works so well that I hope there will be more similar volumes in due course.
GLCD 5141 – GLOBE TROTTING [tracklisting JIM 175, page 65].
The next release returns to the Themed format and commences with a very typical – and appropriate Trevor Duncan composition, Broad Horizon, which – with its high-register strings and big, heroic, orchestration – beautifully sets the scene for a 77 minute round-the-world trip. This takes in France, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Portugal, then ventures farther afield to Egypt, the Orient, Madagascar, India, then on to Cuba, Mexico and finally Manhattan, before returning to England – via Norway – and closing with Jack Beaver’s Journey’s End. David Ades has managed to combine a good variety of styles, orchestras and conductors, including one or two making their GUILD debut. The booklet notes mention the song Faraway Places With Strange Sounding Names (not included on the CD however). It’s true that when these recordings were made – mostly in the 50s but a few date from earlier – the pieces in this collection were just that; merely names. These days ‘Globetrotting’ has become a favourite pastime for millions! On the face of it, some of the titles might seem to make strange bedfellows e.g. Lovers in Paris (Logist), Flamenco Love (L. Wagner) and Tahiti Tango (Martin) are in distinct contrast to pieces like Ketelby’s In The Mystic Land Of Egypt, Victor Herbert’s Chinese Serenade, and a particular favourite of mine, the Three English Dances by Roger Quilter, but it all works surprisingly well. It’s good to hear Jimmy McHugh’s Cuban Love Song in a different arrangement from the well-known version which was the signature tune of Edmundo Ros, whilst the inclusion of the selection from the show Song Of Norway, based on melodies by Edvard Grieg, is most welcome. This is another carefully-crafted programme which deserves to find many new friends.
GLCD 5142 – The 1950s – Volume 5 SUNNY SIDE UP [JIM 175, page 67]
To quote from the booklet notes, "this selection has been chosen with the aim of recalling the cheerful, bright and breezy style of music that ..... seemed prevalent in the 1950s". Although the decade was not without its downsides, (rationing and shortages at the beginning, the threat of global nuclear war at the end), the compositions – and orchestras – of the period have, as I have remarked before, a glossier, more sophisticated and often more optimistic sound than their predecessors of the 40s; truly children of their respective times. On this CD, the balance is tipped in favour of ‘consumer’ recordings, with 18 of the 30 tracks having originated on British and American commercial labels; the remainder started their careers in the recorded music libraries of Synchro, Chappell, Weinberger, Impress, Paxton and Bosworth. The selection "kicks off" with the eponymous title Sunny Side Up (De Sylva, Brown and Henderson) in that wonderful Farnon arrangement which became famous as the playout tune for many of Kenneth Horne’s shows on the late-lamented BBC Light Programme. Next up is an early, and excellent, piece by the gifted German composer and arranger Bert Kaempfert –Las Vegas – (not to be confused with the Laurie Johnson opus of the same name) – although here Mr K is masquerading under the pseudonym of ‘Bob Parker’. DA’s notes also refer to Kaempfert’s "... easy listening style that .... often relied upon a rhythmic beat described in Germany as ... ‘crackling bass’ ". I would add that I have also seen it referred to as ‘click bass’ and I believe that it was pioneered by virtuoso bass-guitarist Lasli Geisler. The conductors form a truly international lineup:- Dolf van der Linden from the Netherlands, Johnny Gregory (of Italian extraction), Ray Martin, who hailed originally from Vienna, the Odessa-born Monia Liter, the French Franck Pourcel, together with Americans Van Phillips, Mahon Merrick, Bernie Wayne, George Liberace, David Rose – and Frank Sinatra, (in an unlikely but apparently successful role) – all rub shoulders with the home-grown talents of Ron Goodwin, Ambrose, Louis Voss, Elliott Mayes and Geoff Love. This is an imaginatively-assembled and very enjoyable CD, which has all the makings of another GUILD winner.
GLCD 5143 ANIMAL ANTICS [JIM 175, page 70]
As the booklet notes are quick to point out, the title of this collection is misleading; not all the tracks refer to animals, as there are plenty of birds and insects thrown in for good measure! Never mind, the resulting programme is another example of the prolific programming skills of David Ades, aided and abetted by Alan Bunting who, apart from his main task of technical supremo restoring these recordings – (and as has been remarked upon several times before, doesn’t he make a superb job of it?) – has an important second role in collaborating with David to select the contents of each new release. So here we have, in the menagerie department, a Little Pink Horse a Waltzing Cat, Donald Thorne’s ‘take’ on those three well-known sightless rodents, two different frogs and Sidney Torch’s arrangement of Friml’s Donkey Serenade, with a little Sympathy thrown in for good measure. Then we come to a veritable aviary, including a Nightingale, a Flamingo, a Meadow Lark and a Skylark,Gilbert The Goose, a whole Reel of Chickens (!) and some Marching Penguins. The insect world gets a look-in too – David Rose’s My Dog Has Fleas is in good company with Paul Linke’s Glow Worm, Ettore’s Butterfly Fantasy and Whitney’s Mosquitos’ Parade. This list is by no means exhaustive, (see full track listing elsewhere), but it gives more than a flavour of this excellent collection, which concludes with the eponymous track Animal Antics (Colin Wark), in a recording by the London Palladium Orchestra made in 1931 – except that you’d never know, because it sounds so amazingly good.
I often take new CDs for review in the car on long business trips, and these four have kept me more than happy on a recent lengthy journey from North London to South Wales and back again.
GLCD 5144 CHILDHOOD MEMORIES – VOLUME 2 [please see full tracklisting elsewhere in this issue].
There is always a danger with a second volume of a CD on a particular theme that it will suffer from ‘the second cup of tea’ syndrome (i.e. it doesn’t taste as good as the first one!) – but thankfully this never seems to happen with the GUILD series. Volume I of CM is often to be found in my CD player and I have to confess to having badgered DA for many months to create a follow-up! Well, he’s certainly ‘come up trumps’ again with this one, and we are treated to another 27 wonderful tracks, a few of which were suggested by yours truly. Amongst those are Josef Engelman’s Tales From A Fairy Book, a worthy stable-mate to his Children’s Playtime Suite featured on the earlier CD. I have been in contact with musician Guy Rowland – (who knew Engelman’s son Harry, also a composer) - and he has a copy of the original sheet music of this work. He was able to confirm that the title of track 12 – shown as Rumpelstickins is just a tad incorrect. Although the generally accepted form of this fabled character’s name is RUMPELSTILTSKIN, for some unaccountable reason it is shown on the printed music as Rumpelstilkins. When Bosworth issued it on their 78 disc, (BC1009), they then managed to turn a letter ‘l’ into a ‘c’. It, therefore, reads Rumpelstickins on the label; it was also registered with the PRS in this form, and has been faithfully copied into the booklet notes! However, it doesn’t detract from another excellent little opus from this almost forgotten composer. Other particularly notable tracks include José Fontaine’s Dance Of The Pirates, Bob Farnon’s Toyland Tattoo, See-Sawby Douglas Brownsmith, Pirouette by Henry Croudson and Charles Williams’ Drummer Boy. We are treated to three different marionettes:- Gilbert Vinter’s Dance Of The Marionettes; Sleepy Marionette, another Charles Williams’ composition (which I fancy is a re-incarnated Funeral March Of A Marionette by Charles Gounod); and Dolf van der Linden’s Marionette March. I must plead ‘guilty’ to having had more than a little bit to do with the final track; this is Fred Hartley’s Scherzetto For Children, which was the warm-up ‘intro’ music for BBC Children’s Television in the early 50s. DA was very anxious to include this item and AB has magnificently improved my rather sub-standard recording, which was originally made available to me by Andrew Emmerson. Whilst profuse apologies are tendered in the notes for including a recording which is ‘...far from perfect’, these are totally superfluous! Anyone hearing this restoration will wonder what all the fuss is about, so successful is the final result; methinks they protesteth too much!! This CD is a more-than-worthy companion to Vol. 1, and a fine addition to the GUILD series.
GLCD 5145 SCENIC GRANDEUR [tracklisting earlier in this issue]
Here we have another example of a very definite theme, again with an eponymous title – track 3Scenic Grandeur by a certain Mr Farnon! Yet again DA has ‘pulled out all the stops’ and put together an impressive collection of descriptive pieces, which conjure-up images of mountain ranges, seascapes, morning mists and sunsets – or indeed many other manifestations of natural beauty. Light Music composers such as Bob Farnon and Trevor Duncan poured out many such pieces to satisfy the enormous demand for this type of mood music, and many others ‘had a go’ too – Len Stevens, Ernest Tomlinson, Gideon Fagan, Tony Lowry, Peter Yorke, Bruce Campbell, Charles Williams, Clive Richardson, Jack Beaver and Dolf van der Linden are all represented here, and there are more besides, with a total of 23 tracks. It will come as no surprise that the majority of these (15) are taken from publishers’ discs, with the balance being made-up of commercial recordings largely from the USA. Of particular note are another Farnon track, Open Skies, Great Panorama (Perry – actually Ernest Tomlinson), Gideon Fagan’s Pastoral Montage (used for the BBC TV Windmillinterlude), Tony Lowry’s Seascape and Bruce Campbell’s Cloudland. In fact they’re all fine pieces, although because of the very specific nature of the subject matter, there is a markedly similar ‘feel’ to many of the compositions. It may be that listeners would wish to ‘dip-in’ to individual tracks, rather than play the entire CD from start to finish. It’s rather like having a box of posh liqueur chocolates – lovely as they are, you might not want to eat the whole lot in one go! The programme is not unlike the earlier CD Reflections Of Tranquility; it’s certainly in marked contrast to some of the more upbeat offerings in this series, and is another fine addition to the GUILD series. Tony Clayden
All Guild Light Music CDs are available from the RFS – price £8 each [US $17] plus postage.
HOLLYWOOD RHAPSODIES & NIGHT MUSIC
Love theme from ‘The Robe’, Selena’s waltz, Nightfall, Thème romantique, Jubilee trail, The moonlight song, Love theme from ‘The Glenn Miller Story’, Spring madness, Theme for Cynthia, Geraldine, Lost moment, BonSoir / The High and the Mighty, Moonlight and roses, Passion tango, Never say goodbye, Smile, The ‘Rear Window’ theme, The song from ‘The Caine Mutiny’, Magnificent obsession, Glamour waltz, Rendezvous in Tunis, Last night when we were young, Twilight interlude
Victor Young and his Singing Strings [Vocalion CDNJT 5201]
It is good to have this new 2-on-1 of the Chicago born composer, arranger, violinist and conductor recorded in 1954 and 1956, the year of his passing. Victor went to Hollywood in 1935 to form his own orchestra for film work and made many recordings with the orchestra of light music and as backing for singers. He also composed such well-known pieces as Golden Earrings, My Foolish Heart, The call of the faraway hills and Around the World in Eighty Days. Although he wrote many songs and for around 350 films, Young the composer is only represented on this CD by three items – Jubilee trail[from the film of the same name], Geraldine, and Bon Soir [from ‘Perilous Journey’] – but there are tracks from other film music luminaries: Arlen, Korngold, Newman, Mancini, Steiner, Tiomkin, Waxman and the underrated Chaplin. I must admit to not recognizing many of the films for which the music was composed but that has not stopped me enjoying the music. Composer Harry Sukman is the piano soloist on Spring madness [from ‘Belle La Grande’], Theme for Cynthia, Lost moment [from the film of the same name] and Twilight interlude as well as his own Nightfall from ‘Gog’, a 1954 low-budget sci-fi movie. The alto sax of Benny Carter can be heard on Rendezvous in Tunis. Written in 1925, Moonlight and roses has been a favourite tune of mine since I were but a lad. An all-round recommendable release.
Peter Burt
AMBROSE AND HIS ORCHESTRA Arranged and Conducted by LAURIE JOHNSON
"Latin America After Dark" Siboney, Walter Winchell Rhumba, Vuelve, Tenacion de Amor, Cae Cae, Volvere, etc… 12 tracks "Starlit Hour – the Music of Peter DeRose" Deep Purple, Autumn Serenade, Let’s Dream Together, American Waltz, Lilacs In The Rain, Blue September, etc… 12 tracksEP: Slide Rule, Whistlin’ Willie, Marching Through Georgia, Bluebell Polka. Vocalion CDNJT 5202. By the mid-1950s music lovers in Britain were starting to take note of Laurie Johnson. We had several 78s on Polygon, plus a few singles on HMV (some on their International label) then a batch of interesting releases on MGM. It turned out that these latter ones were recorded specially for the American market, and when the two LPs on this CD came out in Britain they were in EMI’s MGM International catalogue. I am very pleased to see that Mike Dutton commissioned booklet notes from Tony Middleton. The Wally Stott collection (CDEA 6127) was issued without any notes at all, and it would have been a crying shame if Laurie Johnson’s massive contribution to these recordings had gone uncredited. Observant collectors will notice that a few of the tracks on this new CD have already appeared in the Guild Golden Age of Light Music series, but I would urge everyone who shares my admiration for Laurie Johnson not to hesitate, but snap this one up as quickly as you can! The arrangements and the playing are simply superb, and to make them sound even better try giving the bass control on your amplifier a slight boost! David Ades All Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS.
‘ORIGINALS’ FRANCK POURCEL
Volume 1 25 tracks from 1952 to 1956 including Limelight, Blue Tango, Moulin Rouge, Wonderful Copenhagen,Grisbi Blues, Mon Coeur est un Violin, April in Paris, Madamoiselle de Paris, etc… EPM [France] 986232
Volume 2 Frou Frou, Una Casa Portuguesa, Johnny Guitar, I Love Paris, Lisbon Antigua, etc… 22 tracks EPM 986402
Volume 3 Port au Prince, Carousel Waltz, Malaguena, Around the World, etc… 21 tracks EPM 986412
Volume 4 Whatever Lola Wants, Clown on the Eiffel Tower, Just a Gigolo and the Les Baxter suite"La Femme" 22 tracks EPM 986422
In recent years some of Franck Pourcel’s reissues have been the subject of litigation in the French courts, but hopefully these four new collections are legitimate. Indeed the brief notes inside each CD state that the recordings have been remastered by his estate, and are therefore the originals (hence the title of the collection). Volume 1 concentrates on Pourcel’s early years; Vol. 2 also harks back to the 1950s, with tracks from 1950 to 1957; Vol. 3 comes from 1957 in the series "Amour, Danse et Violons" and the LP "L’Inimitable"; finally Vol. 4 reflects Franck’s ‘musical journey in America’. Somewhat unusually the promotional copies received were in the form of a single CD for volume 1, whereas vols 2, 3 & 5 were combined in a (flimsy) box with the catalogue number EPM 986392. It appears that these three volumes are not available separately – at least not at the time of writing this review. David Ades These CDs are available to special order from the RFS.
Brass/Military Bands
MILITARY BAND FAVOURITES - BANDSTAND FAVOURITES
Strike Up the Band, The Golden Mile, Calling All Workers, The Westminster Waltz,
Sabre Dance, Anything Goes, Stage Centre, Rhapsody in Blue, La Rejouissance, Skye Boat Song, Czardas, Yankee Doodle Dandy, Scarborough Fair, Greensleeves. Tie a Yellow Ribbon, The Polecat Polka, Bells Across The Meadow, Adagio, Alexander's
Ragtime Band and Nessun Dorma
Various Bands (MusicMasters)
This review departs a little from the usual, in that the CD is not really new (released in January 2007), and your reviewer downloaded it from the Internet which didn't include its catalogue number! However, it is a British release and should be tracked down with ease or it can be downloaded from www.emusic.com for a very reasonable fee. The CD is an interesting and wide variety of music genres, including Farnon's Westminster Waltz and Coates' Calling All Workers - all given the military band treatment; brass and woodwind replacing the strings. The bands used in this selection are all well-known and top class British bands, including The Blues and Royals, Coldstream Guards, HM Royal Marines, Royal British Legion, Life Guards, Royal Yeomanry and the Queen's Lancashire Regiment. It’s quite a musical treat for military/brass band buffs to jump from Sabre Dance to The Polecat Polka! I was delighted to hear Alexander's Ragtime Band played in true ragtime style by the Band of the British Legion. The producers have done a great job getting this material together, they are all recent stereo recordings and I can't say I was disappointed with any of the selections.
Graham Miles
CARMEN SYMPHONY
The Presidents Own United States Marine Band (Naxos, 8.570727) 79:00
Well Naxos keep surpassing themselves in quality and unexpected finds! This is a stunning band record that I have recently purchased. This CD is a real pleasure - just listen to track 22 - it takes your breath away with a live performance of the Stars and Stripes including a flute solo played by Master Sergeant Gail Gillespie. Superlative is the only word that comes to mind - put this track on full volume to start the day!
Malcolm Lewis
SYMPHONIC BRASS
The Black Dyke Mills Band (Naxos, 8.570726)
If anybody ever thought that we didn’t lead the world in this genre, then just listen to this recording made in Morley Town Hall. The sound is exceptional and even more so when you have the conducting and arranging honours by Nicholas Childs and his brother Robert - pure gold. Just listen to the 1812 Overture arranged by Robert and you have a rival for the old classic Mercury recording conducted by Dorati. I would add, in my opinion, that the guns are more realistic.
Malcolm Lewis
"A Dream Realised" The Music of LESLIE STATHAM [Arnold Steck] The Band of the Welsh Guards Specialist Recording Company SRC 112, 71:38 mins.
For some years as a longstanding admirer of the Band of the Welsh Guards I have been agitating for a recording devoted to the music of Leslie Statham, their Director of Music between 1948 and 1962, who wrote many of his compositions under the name of Arnold Steck.
The original dream was that sufficient of his music could be brought together to fill an LP but just as that seemed a possibility we moved into the CD era with its much greater capacity. All seemed lost but gradually more pieces were found and then through the good offices of Mrs Statham we discovered that there were over 80 published items. Major Statham had given me so much pleasure, without ever knowing it, and continued to do so with the legacy of his fine music that it is was my wish to see as much of his music as possible brought together on one CD as a tribute to him and for the public of today and tomorrow to enjoy.One of the major concerns was the commercial viability of such a CD but after careful thought and running through most of the music Major Davd Cresswell rose to the challenge and set up the sessions with Mike Purton of Specialist Recording Company who have already issued a number of single composer CDs by the Band including one of Edward German.Mike is renowned for the care and accuracy of his recordings and this was rapidly confirmed as he picked up details and nuances which were inaudible to most but which will ensure that the finished product is of the highest quality. He has used the chapel at Chelsea Barracks for other recordings and this was again the venue. The first item was a haunting arrangement of Men of Harlech, still as a march but far removed from the usual brash approach. There followed a succession of marches in various styles and descriptive pieces, some well known but others being heard for the first time by all concerned.Although tiring, Monday’s session on 5 February 2007 ran smoothly with some 60 per cent of the intended music "in the can" by the end of the day. This promised an early finish on Tuesday but it was to prove rather more eventful despite starting quite normally. We were warned to expect three parties who wished to view the chapel as part of the sales process for Chelsea Barracks and it was agreed that these would be accommodated in breaks in the recording. What was not expected was a helicopter which seemed to hover, move away only to return followed a little later by a second, both landing on the Parade Square. This held up proceedings for some minutes but having just resumed a 21 gun salute to mark the anniversary of the Queen’s accession started. To add to the interest we had a planned visit by Sian Price who was filming one of a series of TV documentaries for BBC Wales, this one featuring the Band with whom she will be going to Bosnia shortly. She took a number of shots mainly in close up whilst Royal Review was being played; it appeared in the broadcast as the band preparing for an important concert in front of the Prince of Wales! We assumed the afternoon would be quiet – until an over enthusiastic drill sergeant decided that the ideal place to put his squad through their paces was right outside the chapel. The band sergeant-major, resplendent in full practice dress (extremely unmilitary!), despatched himself rapidly and persuaded the culprit of the error of his ways! Some real gems were revealed. Marches such as Birdcage Walk and The Guardsman are well known butFreedom of the City was a real revelation and Heroes Return could have come from Sousa’s pen so well was the style captured. Of the descriptive pieces Broadacres and Skeleton in the Cupboard were outstanding with the Happy Days Suite conveying perfectly the atmosphere of such times. The band produced a splendid sound and purchasers of the CD are in for a treat when they hear it. From time to time there have been calls for recordings devoted to a single military composer other than Sousa or Alford and here we have just a production; it is hugely entertaining in its own right, but if record companies are to produce more of this type they need support from the buying public. All concerned are to be congratulated on their efforts and the hope must be that this CD will open the eyes of a wider public to the quality of the music of Leslie Statham, one of the Army’s most significant composers. Light music of the mid 20th century it unashamedly is, but superbly crafted and beautifully executed; the faithful recording and caring production of Mike Purton and his team should ensure that here is a CD which will find a place in the library of every lover of military band music – as well as those who are already familiar with light music arrangements of Statham’s compositions.
Alan Hardwick
[Reprinted from Band International (IMMS) by kind permission of the Editor and the Author]Editor: orchestral versions of works by Leslie Statham (under his pseudonym Arnold Steck) have appeared on the following Guild CDs:
GLCD5143 Morning Canter
GLCD5132 Riviera Rhapsody
GLCD5147 Royal Review
GLCD5126 Skeleton In The Cupboard
Keyboard
ORGAN-IZED
Pedro the Fisherman, French Café Medley, Cuban Boy, All the Things You Are, Port Au Prince, Film Medley, Autumn Leaves, The Avengers Theme, High Wire, Early Autumn, Sunrise Sunset, Another Day Tomorrow, Can You Feel the Love Tonight and Cinderella Samba
Tony Whittaker
ORGAN-ized is an organ/piano-based easy listening album, this is stated at the top of the front CD inlay card and it certainly lives up to its statement! Tony effortlessly moves from tune to tune with his own musical arrangements making this a CD to sit back and enjoy, with certain tracks that are not usually or rarely heard. The only track I, personally didn’t enjoy was Can You Feel the Love Tonight – the combination of keyboards did not sound up to the standard of the rest of the CD. His own compositions Another Day Tomorrow and Cinderella Samba made delightful additions. The tunes were recorded entirely on Kurzweil and Korg Keyboards.
Gillian Endacott
PURE NOSTALGIA
Jolson medley, Pure Nostalgia medley, South of the Border/Bluesette medley, It's All in the Game, Blue Danube Waltz, Baby Elephant Walk, Phantom of the Opera medley, Days of Wine and Roses, Out of Town/Candy Man medley, Masquerade, Scottish medley, The Skye Boat Song, Moonlight Serenade, Wartime medley, Summertime, Warwick Waltz, They Can't Take That Away from Me, Rosina, As Time Goes By and South Pacific medley
Tony Whittaker playing the Compton 3/11+Melatone at Fentham Hall, Hampton-in-Arden, Solihull
This entertaining CD is Tony’s debut recording on the theatre pipe organ and would make an excellent addition to anyone’s collection of keyboard CDs. His style and interpretation of the varied tunes on this CD make for easy listening and a must for the ipod owner. Again Tony has included two of his own compositions Rosina and Warwick Waltz on this 2007 release.
Gillian Endacott
Both the above albums can be purchased directly from Tony Whittaker - £11.00 per CD including P&P (UK only) Send cheque/PO to: Tony Whittaker Musical Service, 49 Hollystitches Road, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV10 9QA, England.
Vocal
NIGHTINGALE FROM SAVANNAH
Connie Haines (Sepia, 1107) 75:10
It has been a real delight to discover the singing talents of Connie Haines on this excellent release from Sepia Records. Although her recordings with the orchestra of Harry James and Tommy Dorsey have been readily available, few of her much sought after titles as a single artist have seen the light of day – until now! The CD highlights her versatility as it offers 27 numbers from across the musical spectrum ranging from Stormy Weather, The Man I Love and My Man through to Silly No- Silly Yes,Ol’ Man Mose and Pink Shampoo. Recordings date from 1946 to 1953 with accompaniment by such names as Ray Bloch and his orchestra and Bob Crosby and the Bobcats. All in all a great CD to dip into when you are feeling down as Connie, with her subtle southern twang, radiates warmth and sings with great joy. Top marks once more to Sepia for sound quality, informative liner notes and stylish design.
Simon Endacott
SONGS FROM YEARS GONE BY
Swing Low, Steal Away, Deep River, Were You There, Go Down Moses, Nobody Knows The Trouble I See, The Ashgrove, Idle Days In Summertime, Speak To Me My Own Beloved, Ye Banks And Ye Braes, Oh My Love Is Like A Red Red Rose, Barbara Allen, Drink To Me Only, A Brown Bird Singing, The Lark In The Clear Air, The Old House.
Ramon Remedios (Tenor) David Snell (Piano) President Records PRCD 161
Liverpool-born and Guildhall School of Music–trained, Ramon Remedios has sung with the Welsh National and Scottish Opera companies, the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden – and many European Opera Houses. He has made several UK television appearances and a number of CDs – in both cases often in association with Rick Wakeman. This recording takes him in a new direction and is his first collaboration with RFS member David Snell, who has swapped his harp – and conductor’s baton – for the role of arranger and accompanist. The programme combines mostly traditional songs from the British Isles with six spirituals; the latter are unusual, inasmuch as they are rarely – if ever – performed by a Tenor. It’s a novel idea and, helped by David’s sensitive arrangements, the pieces are certainly shown in a different light from the conventional basso profundo renditions with which we are all so familiar. These days, songs such as these are seldom performed or recorded and it’s, therefore, heartening to see two such fine artists reviving a sadly neglected and almost forgotten genre with this very enjoyable selection.
Tony Clayden
THE BLUEST KIND OF BLUES
Denny Dennis (Sepia, 1108) 77:18
A double treat from Sepia as not only do we have 26 tracks showcasing the smooth vocals of Denny Dennis (1913-1993) but six of them are with Robert Farnon and his orchestra dating from March 1948. These tracks may now be sixty years old but they sound timeless. The numbers arranged and conducted by Robert Farnon are After All, Judaline, Every Time I Meet You, Glen Echo, I’d Love To See You Home Tonight and By the Way. Denny is a versatile vocalist and the songs on this CD reflect this highlighting his baritone voice and relaxed vocal style. The recordings date from between 1939-1949 and the other main orchestras featured are those of Stanley Black and Phil Green. Congratulations to all involved on a class production which is stylishly presented.
Simon Endacott
THE MAGIC OF BELIEVING
Jane Russell (Sepia, 1110) 65:41
One of the last surviving Hollywood leading ladies of the ‘Golden Age’ of Hollywood - Jane Russell and it is her vocal talents which are spotlighted in this new release from Sepia Records. The title track is a great opening and is one of twelve tracks from a 1957 album entitled The Magic of Believing that Jane recorded with her good friends Connie Haines and Beryl Davis. All ‘inspirational’ songs ranging from religious ballads to rocking numbers with a message, these sound fresh and lively and are infectiously enjoyable. The three ladies harmonize beautifully and the sound quality is excellent – it could have been recorded yesterday. The remaining thirteen tracks offer a great variety of songs which Jane performs in her attractive and clear vocals – all lyrics can be heard. Excellent sound quality again with catchy arrangements from the likes of Nelson Riddle and George Cates. Particular favourites of mine were One Arabian Night and If You Wanna See Mamie Tonight plus two duets with Johnny Desmond from 1954. As expected from Sepia, there is a well illustrated and informative inlay booklet. Highly recommended.
Simon Endacott
SONGS FROM THE ZIEGFELD FOLLIES
Vivian Blaine (Sepia, 1106) 75:23
Hats off to Sepia Records who added another excellent title to their ever-growing catalogue in the form of a 2 on 1 from Vivian Blaine (1921-1995); the popular star of 20th Century Fox musicals of the 1940s and best known for creating the role of Miss Adelaide in "Guys and Dolls". "Songs from the Ziegfeld Follies" and "Songs from the Great White Way" are to companion albums that were recorded in September/October 1956 for the Mercury Records label with orchestra conducted on both by the talented Glenn Osser. Blaine adds her own unique touch to the 24 show tunes featured bringing warmth to the more intimate numbers whilst not afraid to sing out the more up-tempo songs m- she is aided by some very good orchestrations. As suggested, the first album offers songs featured in the various Ziegfeld Follies shows from 1912-36. A Pretty Girl is Like a Melody is the opening track and contains a charming spoken introduction from Vivian. Other well known numbers include I Can’t Get Started, Shaking the Blues Away and Mandy. I much enjoyed Suddenly (Rose-Harburg-Duke) which was a new tune to me.
The second album showcases a host of well known songs such as People Will Say We’re in Love, But Not for Me and How Are Things in Glocca Morra which are all performed to the same high standard. With the added bonus of three songs plus excellent CD remastering by RFS member Robin Cherry and an extremely well designed and attractive booklet, this release is a real winner and a worthy tribute to the talents of Miss Blaine.
Simon Endacott
IT’S MAGIC
Buttons and Bows, Maybe You’ll Be There, Nature Boy, Dark Moon, Cock-Eyed Optimist and many more
Bing Crosby (DSOY746) 81:30
These tracks, on a double CD and totalling 33 in all, are taken from air checks that Bing made with the John Scott Trotter orchestra whilst the US musicians were on strike in 1948. I expect Cab Smith has this already, but if not, he will be heading for his nearest record store!
Paul Clatworthy
Continental and International
FETE AU VILLAGE SICILIEN ET NAPOLITAIN (OVER MOUNTAINS AND THROUGH VALLEYS)
49 tracks including Terra mia Pupetta inamorata; De Riposto à Mascali, Piccola Monella, Meluccio, Sicilia mia, La Danza Antica. Il Bacio, Scintille Sérénade Napolitaine Tarantella per Fischiett, Marche Florentine, Canzoniero Napolitano, Oride Canzoniero Napolitan; Florentine March
Various artists (Marianne Melodie 061591)
Another winner from Pierre-Marcel Ondher’s collection. Some of the tunes will be familiar to readers; but there are a host of unfamiliar but appealing tracks. There is a very distinct cosmopolitan flavour about this set with delightful ocarina flutes, orchestras, string ensembles and mandolin orchestras playing beautiful melodies. Listening to Florentine March by a mandolin orchestra, make a refreshing change from hearing versions by military bands or orchestras. The compilation focuses on music from South Italy, Naples and Sicily. Many of the tracks feature folk dances with very melodic catchy tunes. There are two rather unusual tracks from an early Decca LP, Il Bacio and Napolitan Nights by the Marimba Serenaders. These were originally issued on Decca LF 1044. This group features several marimbas accompanied by mandolins and various other instruments. Much of this compilation is drawn from continental 78 labels or early LPs such as Odeon, Durion, Fonit etc which would be very hard to find today. There is a short set of notes by Ralph Harvey, the remaining documentation being provided in French. A very attractive period style painting similar to the excellent Guild covers, adorns the front of the booklet. The transfers have been made with great care to a high standard. A bargain, if this kind of continental light music appeals.
Brian Stringer This collection was also previously reviewed in JIM 168, June 2006. Available to special order from the RFS Record Service, or direct from www.mariannemelodie.com or from Marianne Melodie BP 102 – 78372 Plaisir Cedex, France. Tel 00 33 0892.350322 preceded by country code.
FETE AU VILLAGE BAVAROIS (VILLAGE FAIR IN BAVARIA – OVER MOUNTAINS AND THROUGH VALLEYS VOLUME TWO)
44 tracks including Ländler de Hallertau, Schützenliesl Polka, Le Chemin du Coeur, Danse du Berger Munichois, Rheinländer du Coucou, Clarinette-Polka, Les Violettes du Kochelsee, Polka d'Egerland, Hoppla! Hoppla! Troupeau de chamois, Polka de Hacketau, En route vers le Tyrol, Riante Münich, Petite Suzanne, Salut à Oberammergau
Various artists including Rudi Knabl, Alfons Bauer their zithers and orchestras, Max Greger’s Sextet, Orchestre Munichais de Thomas Wendlinger etc. (Marianne Melodie 031 084)
This is yet another set in the series from Pierre-Marcel Ondher’s collection. In the early 1950’s, I remember calling in at my local record store and seeing all the wonderful distinctive orange labeled popular Polydor 78’s and mono LPs (which I couldn’t afford) displayed in the shop window. It is good to have in this collection many of the orchestras and ensembles of that period which have been sadly neglected over the years. Munich based Alfons Bauer and Rudi Knabl, were very competent zither players and recorded with their own excellent orchestras. There are also items by Max Greger’s sextet, presumably an offshoot of his orchestra. There is a generous sprinkling of ‘oompah bands’ and various virtuoso accordion ensembles but little in the way of yodeling, (fortunately!!) the CDs being mainly instrumental. Although you may think that you are not familiar with many of the listed titles it is quite likely when you start to listen you will recall tunes you heard on the radio in the dim and distant past or on a trip to Bavaria. If Tyrolean/Bavarian cum Viennese music is to your taste then this attractive set is a must. It would take a million years to find the recordings assembled here at 78 record bazaars etc. Again the booklet contains a short English summary by Ralph Harvey who had some involvement in the compilation plus a delightful period style painting on the booklet front.
Brian Stringer Available from www.mariannemelodie.com or from Marianne Melodie BP 102 – 78372 Plaisir Cedex, France. Tel 00 33 0892.350322 preceded by country code.
CHITARRA ROMANA
Tango Delle Rosa, The Woodpecker Song, Torna a Surriento, Only Love Me, Arriverderci Roma, Como Prima, Chitarra Romana, Volare, Mattinata, Sicilian Tarantella, Nights of Splendor, Torero, Chitarra Romana, Just Say I Love Her, Mattinata, I Have But One Heart, Tra Veglia E Sonno, You’re My Treasure, Oh Marie, The Woodpecker Song, Tango of the Roses, Gilda, Anema E Core and Luna Rosa
The Guitar Kings directed by Al Caiola (Cumquat Records)
Under the direction of Al Caiola, the guitars and mandolins of the New York Guitar Kings transport us back to sunny Napoli, Here are melodies delighted music lovers through the 1950s. The recording is splendid.
Brian Stringer Available directly from Australia: http://www.cumquatrecords.com.au
SOUTH OF THE BORDER
Besame Mucho, Mambo Jambo, My Shawl, Piel Canela, You Belong to My Heart, Jungle Drums, El Rancho Grande, Poinciana, Magic is the Moonlight, Serenata, Ritual Fire Dance, Yours, Adelita, Sabras Que Te Quiero, Quien Sera, Duerme, Jurame, Amor, Tres Palabras, La Malaguena, Coo Coo Roo Coo Coo Paloma, Jesuita En Chihuahua, Cuatro Vidas and Estrellita
The Guitar Kings directed by Al Caiola (Cumquat Records)
Spanish and Mexican standards performed by a ten piece guitar ensemble. Members may recall the mid 1950’s when Al Caiola’s records were heard on the radio so this CD will bring back happy memories. The mellow sound is far removed from the wailing electronic guitars that we have to suffer today. Very pleasant summertime music attractively arranged. As this CD won’t be around too much longer, if this appeals, don’t delay ordering.
Brian Stringer Available directly from Australia: http://www.cumquatrecords.com.au
Dance Band/Nostalgia
ON THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET
This is Romance, You Oughta Be in Pictures, Fair and Warmer, All I Do is Dream of You and many more
Ray Noble featuring Al Bowlly (DSOY742) 52:22
Yet another dusted off ‘oldie’. Ray started as principal arranger for the BBC Dance Orchestra led by Jack Payne and was later made Director of light music for HMV Records. This CD, containing 18 tracks, focuses on his career as one of the leading Dance Band Orchestras of the 1930s and really is nostalgia with vengeance along with the added vocals of Al Bowlly.
Paul Clatworthy
MUSIC WHILE YOU WORK – Vols. I and II
Issued by Frank Bristow – Victoria, Australia
These CDs have previously been the subject of brief reviews in JIM by Edmund Whitehouse. However, not all details were given. In particular, incomplete information was provided about titles and performers; some of the latter are making their debut on CD, although they all appeared on the programme during its twenty-seven year run.
Volume I
Calling All Workers (Coates)
Band of the Grenadier Guards/Major F J Harris
Toytown Tattoo (Cardewe)/Louis Voss Grand Orchestra
Polly (Zamecnik)/Harold Collins Orchestra
Coon Band Contest (Pryor)/Troise and His Banjoliers
Harry Wood Hits/Primo Scala
Double or Nothing – selection (Johnson, etc.)/Jack Simpson
Samun – Symphonic Foxtrot/Harry Fryer Orchestra
Alpine Festival (Hartley)/Fred Hartley Orchestra
Tessoro Mio (Beccuci)/Ronnie Monro Orchestra
Knuckledust (Blackmore)/Harold Collins Orchestra
Corn On The Cob (Scott-Wood)/George Scott-Wood Band
Those Were The Days/Jack Coles Music Makers
Dance With A Dolly (Shand etc.) )/Al Collins Band
Trolley Song (Martin etc.) George Elrick Band
Boo Hoo (Lombardo etc.) George Elrick Band
A Feather In Her Tyrolean Hat George Elrick Band
Coon Corn Rag (Vecsey)/Troise and his Banjoliers
A Little On The Lonely Side (Robertson) /Oscar Rabin Band
There Goes That Song Again (Styal etc.) Oscar Rabin Band
East Of The Sun (Bowman) /Cecil Norman and Pat Dodd
Careless (Quadling etc.) Cecil Noprman & Pat Dodd
Light And Shade/Harold Collins Orchestra
Leroy Steps Out – Selection (Kreisker/Zalva) Richard Crean Orchestra
Six Hit Medley/Primo Scala
With A Smile And A Song (Churchill etc.) Reg Pursglove Orchestra
Sing Song Medley No. 3/Jimmy Leach Organolions
Gung’l In The Ballroom/W Reynolds Orchestra
Love Dance Intermezzo (Felix etc.) David Java Orchestra
Volume II
Calling All Workers (Coates)/Fred Alexander Players
In The Arena (Groltzsch)/Louis Voss Orchestra
Last Tango (Mulka)/Bernard Monshin Orchestra
Songs Of Old England/Troise Banjoliers
Showboat – Selection (Kern) Jack Leon Orchestra
Kiss In The Dark (Herbert) Ronnie Munro Orchestra
Parade Of The Pirates (Brotton)/R & MW Band
Temptation Rag (Lodge)/George Scott-Wood Band
Wood Nymphs (Coates)/London Coliseum Orchestra
Careless Cuckoo (Bucalossi)/Harry Davidson Orchestra
Linger Awhile – Medley/Roland Peachey Orchestra
How Soon (Lucas etc.) Jack White Band
Memories Of The Early Twenties/Primo Scala Band
Salad Days – Medley (Slade etc.)/Tommy Kinsman Band
Friml In The Ballroom/W Reynolds Orchestra
Marigold (Mayerl) Jimmy Leach Organolions
Teddy Bears’ Picnic (Brotton) Troise Banjoliers
Tick Of The Clock (Perry) Harry Davidson Orchestra
You Are My Sunshine (Davis etc.) /Cecil Norman and Pat Dodd
Dardenella (Bernard etc.) Cecil Norman & Pat Dodd
Singalong Medley/Primo Scala Band
Mad About Music – Film Selection/Coventry Hippodrome Orchestra
Choristers’ Waltz (Phelps)/Harry Davidson Orchestra
Waldmere March (Casey etc.)/Harry Foyer Orchestra
Lonely Troubadour (Miller etc.) /Falkman and His Apache Band
In Caliente (Dixon etc.)
Whilst these two fine releases neatly compliment the two GUILD MWYN discs – (there is no duplication of recordings) – there is one significant difference. i.e. the FB CDs contain material from both commercial recordings and the special DECCA MW series, whereas the GUILD issues contain only recordings in the latter category. I should also mention the booklet notes, which provide comprehensive details about the performers and indeed the BBC programme itself; this was so much a part of the daily lives of so many and is sadly missed to this day by enthusiasts of broadcast radio.Tony Clayden
Frank Bristow’s CDs are ONLY available direct from him at 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria, 3186, Australia. Tel. 03-9528-3167. E-mail: Credit cards and PayPal are accepted, but no cheques – details on request. Please visit Frank’s website for details of other CDs in his catalogue: www.musicfromthepast.com
THE GENIUS OF GEORGE GERSHWIN
Various artists (DSOY741) 120:00
Most, if not all, of the Gershwin music contained in this two CD package have been recorded in many new issues. For me, this compilation is a historical document! Twelve of the tracks are Gershwin himself playing piano solo, the remainder with various orchestras. The groundbreaking orchestral pieces Rhapsody in Blue, Concerto in F and An American in Paris are here along with many of the tunes that Gershwin wrote for stage and screen.
Paul Clatworthy
FRANCES DAY "Golden Girl of the 1930s" featuring recordings with Geraldo, Ray Noble, Carroll Gibbons, Louis Levy, Benjamin Frankel, Jay Wilbur, Al Bowlly, Bud Flanagan, John Mills, etc… 49 tracks, AVID Easy AMSC 926 - 2 CDs 157 mins. This warm tribute to a lady who seemingly had the world at her feet – particularly during the 1930s – has been compiled by Hugh Palmer, who has been responsible for so many enjoyable collections on LP and CD of music from this period. Frances was American, but she came to London in 1924 where she found her fame and fortune in London. These well-filled discs include her commercial recordings, radio broadcasts and film soundtracks. The singers and orchestra leaders with whom she worked read like a ‘who’s who’ of British show business of the mid-20th century, up to 1955 when she attempted to get into the hit parade with Why Did The Chicken Cross The Road accompanied by Frank Cordell. If you remember Frances you’ll love this collection. David Ades
"The real sound of R.& B and Boogie Woogie" (DSOY 737) 21 tracks. 61:28 "More of the real sound of R & B. and Boogie Woogie" (DSOY 739) Also 21 tracks. 60:38. Two albums exploring the sounds of the Forties and Fifties forerunners of the "Rock and Roll" that followed, cursed by many in this Society but nevertheless a good insight into people who later found fame by moving on into more modern sounds such as Lionel Hampton, Woody Herman, Ray McKinley, Benny Goodman, Buddy Collette, Helen Humes and Count Basie. Unless you follow this style of music other names involved have been lost along the way! The first named CD has a track "Down the road apiece" which I doubt Henry Mancini ever heard, but the opening notes are very "Peter Gunn". Helen Humes sings "St Louis blues" with a small jazz group. A bigger band led by Andy Kirk steam through "Hey! lawdy mama" with a vocal by June Richmond. The second collection has not the interest of the first, obviously the compiler’s second choice! "Tempo and swing" is well named, fast and furious! The amusing lyrics of "Vote for Mr Boogie" sound like parts of Labour’s election manifesto. I have not followed this style of music very much but it certainly was unexpected to hear a harp used on "With a twist of the wrist"! Both collections sound as if put together in a hurry as some titles do not match their allotted number and "Down the road again" appears on both! Paul Clatworthy
MARCHES IN SWINGTIME
Ted Heath – Entry of the Gladiators, Blue Skies March, Cossack Patrol; Ray Anthony – National Emblem March, Sound Off; Ralph Flanagan – Stars and Stripes Forever; Tex Beneke – St Louis Blues March; Sauter-Finegan – Doodletown Fifers; The Squadronaires – March of the Movies; Jack Parnell – When the Saints Go Marching In; Phil Green and his Basin Street Band – Anchors Aweigh; etc… 26 tracks. Memoir CDMOIR 594, 72:26 mins. The abridged tracklisting details above will give a clue of what is on this CD, and I must say that the novel idea works very well! This is a fun collection, which not only reminds us of some great swing marches of the past, but also springs a few welcome surprises. John Snell was responsible for the original idea, and Ted Kendall has performed his usual magic with the remastering. As if all that wasn’t enough, there is an informative and entertaining booklet note by Malcolm Laycock, which is a model of what such things should be – but often aren’t! Most enjoyable. David Ades Memoir CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
"Fine and Dandy" BENNY GOODMAN quintet and sextet (DSOY 745) 14 tracks"39:41. I cannot honestly say I was agog with excitement when I received this because I am not a fan! Some tunes are taken at such.a pace they sound like 33 played at 45 also some tracks employ, the dreaded "Squeeze box" making it even more Iess appealing. The only Goodman I really enjoyed was his London date arranged by Wally Stott and Peter Knight. This outing was recorded between 1946 and 1947 all on the transcription service complete with announcements. For followers only! Paul Clatworthy
"Penny serenade" (Rare recordings from the nineteen thirties) (DSOY 738) 20 tracks 66 (Various artists) Singers involved Al Bowlly, Cyril Grantham, Dorothy Carless and Sam Browne. Ten titles feature the Geraldo orchestra which fans may have versions elsewhere. Undemanding pleasant listening for 80 to 90 year olds who probably remember first time around. 70 year old recordings painstakingly restored from acetates or lacquers, was it worth the effort? Ill get back to you on that!Paul Clatworthy
A few late arrivals …
"Bugatti Step" ALEX HASSAN, piano A mixture of syncopated marvels including works by the likes of Harry Engleman, Billy Mayerl, Roy Bargy, Carroll Gibbons and Lennie Hayton. Shellwood SWCD35.
"Fidgety Digits" Digitally restored 78s featuring some of the best pianists of the light music idiom from the 1920s to 1940s. Virtuoso performances from Lothar Perl, Donald Thorne, Billy Mayerl, Raie De Costa, Arthur Sandford, Monia Liter and many more. Shellwood SWCD36.
TOMMY STEELE Some of his hit singles plus LPs "The Tommy Steele Story" and "The Tommy Steele Stage Show". Rex REXX 118.
SKIFFLE AT ITS BEST A particularly British phenomenon of the 1950s featuring Lonnie Donegan, Ken Colyer, Johnnie Duncan and all the rest. Rex REXX 316 [2 CDs].
Finally some recent releases noted by Wilfred Askew
HOW THE WEST WAS WON
Featuring Bing Crosby, Rosemary Clooney and Jimmie Driftwood. Tracks include Shenandoah, Bound for the Promised Land, Green Grow the Lilacs, Billy the Kid, Skip to My Lou, Red River Valley etc (Bear Family, BCD16634) 83:35
CARMEN CAVALLARO — THE EDDY DUCHIN STORY/EDDY DUCHIN REMEMBERED
Two albums from 1956. Tracks include Shine On Harvest Moon, Chopsticks, Dizzy Fingers, La Vie En Rose, I Won’t Dance, Ill Wind, Love Walked In, The Way You Look Tonight etc (Fine and Mellow, FM604) 75:27
MICHEL LEGRAND AND HIS ORCHESTRA – CASTLES IN SPAIN
Original 1956 recording. Tracks include Espana, Jungle Drums, El Gato Montes, Malaguena, El Chocloetc (Cherry Red, ACMEM116) 44:04
LEO REISMAN AND HIS ORCHESTRA – PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ
Featuring vocalists Fred Astaire, Lee Wiley and Sally Singer. Tracks include Lost in a Fog, I’ve Got You On My Mind, Easter Parade, St Louis Blues, The Piccolino, Lucky Seven etc (Flare, ROYCD254) 71:50
DANNY POLO AND HIS SWING STARS – THE COMPLETE SETS
24 tracks which include That’s A-Plenty, Mozeltov, China Boy, Jazz Me Blues, Mr Polo Takes a Solo, If You Were the Only Girl in the World etc (Retrieval, RTR79051) 69:48
URBIE GREEN BIG BAND AND SEXTET – THE COMPLETE PERSUASIVE TROMBONE
Original Command recordings. Tracks include At Last, My Silent Love, I Can’t Get Started, It Could Happen to You, Skylark, No Moon At All, Love Letters etc. (Lonehill Jazz, LHJ10308) 71:47
WAYNE KING AND HIS ORCHESTRA – THE WALTZ KING
Two CD set. Tracks include My Buddy, Moon Love, Lonely Acres, Close, Trees, A Kiss in the Dark, The Blue Skirt Waltz, I Love You Truly, Sleepy Time Gal, Carolina Moon etc. (Jasmine, JASCD467) 134:48
Orchestral ANDRE KOSTELANETZ PLAYS THE MUSIC OF RICHARD RODGERS
You Took Advantage of Me, Waltzes medley, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Little Girl Blue, Over and Over Again, I Could Write a Book, Loneliness of Evening, Oklahoma medley, Mimi, My Funny Valentine, South Pacific medley, With a Song in My Heart etc
Andre Kostelanetz Orchestra (Sounds of Yester Year, DSOY748) 2CD set 84:37
An album that should be played while reading Dick O’Connor’s excellent article ‘The Kostelanetz Arrangers’ in JIM December 2007. Kostelanetz had almost total control of the final recording so trying to pin down any arranger to a particular tune is almost impossible. The remastered recordings on this CD are his complete ‘Columbia Album of Richard Rodgers’ and is a fine sample of both the work of Rodgers and Kostelanetz. Some lesser known Rodgers tunes are included which is a bonus but as far as albums devoted to Rodgers music go, I still think Stanley Black’s album arranged by Roland Shaw takes some beating! Paul Clatworthy
LEROY ANDERSON ORCHESTRAL MUSIC VOLUME THREE
Harvard Sketches, Melody on Two Notes, Mother’s Whistler, The Penny Whistle Song, The Phantom Regiment, Plink, Plank, Plunk, Promenade, Sandpaper Ballet, Sarabande, Serenata, Old MacDonald Had a Farm, Seventy-Six Trombones, Sleigh Ride, Suite of Carols for Brass Choir, Wintergreen for President, The Typewriter, A Trumpeter’s Lullaby and The Syncopated Clock
Leonard Slatkin and the BBC Concert Orchestra (Naxos 8559357) 61:49
This could be reckoned the best yet in the excellent first complete cycle of Anderson’s orchestral music. The four world premiere recordings (the first three listed above and Wintergreen) fill 11½ minutes of the CD. There are some strange non-musical sounds on Mother’s Whistler, unexplained in Richard S Ginell’s otherwise comprehensive booklet notes. Most of the remaining pieces come into the ‘familiar’ category with Sleigh Ride probably being the most familiar of all. All have that imaginative Anderson touch, none more so than The Typewriter. It is interesting, too, to hear his arrangements of other people’s pieces in Old MacDonald - great fun this - and 76 Trombones. TheSuite of Carols comprises nine timeless numbers including In Dulci Jubilo, Lo, How a Rose E’re Blooming, I Saw Three Ships and We Three Kings. It is, again, a pity that the Christmas track was not put at the end of the disc. Slatkin’s conducting and the orchestral playing are as fine as ever. Although not initially intending to collect every volume, I am now hooked. They’re coming so fast now, number four may well be out before you read this! Peter Burt
JOHNNY DOUGLAS AND HIS ORCHESTRA "The Living Strings"
"Where Did The Night Go?"
In The Still of the Night: title track, Deep Purple,Whispers in the Dark, I Wished on the Moon, Unchained Melody, Wonderland by Night, Blue Velvet, Moon Over Miami, Under a Blanket of Blue, Serenade in the Night. Where Did the Night Go title track, Fanny, Anyone would Love You, F.D.R. Jones, Wish You Were Here, Have I Told You Lately, Restless Heart, Who Knows, Once of These Fine Days, I Have to Tell You.
(Dulcima DLCD 121) 69:50.
The late Johnny Douglas’s own label Dulcima has reissued these two RCS Camden LPs from 1964 and 1963 respectively, and very welcome they are. RCA producer Ethel Gabriel worked on the Melachrino Strings’ 'Moods in Music' series and in the late 1950s developed the Living Strings as a package for RCA’s budget label, Camden, using various orchestras, mainly from Europe. The albums were all centred on a theme: the sea, the West, Broadway, night music. The recordings made by The Living Strings became a mainstay of easy-listening radio and commercial venues. Johnny Douglas, one of England’s masters of string arranging, was the primary arranger and conductor for the series recorded in England. He brought great songs to a new life with his arrangements of a mass of pure velvety strings, mellow brass and superb solos played by the cream of the British musicians of that era. Collectors have waited a long time for these recordings to be made available again, so this new Dulcima CD is especially welcome. David Ades
MALCOLM ARNOLD conducting his own scores
Film music from "Nine Hours To Rama" and "The Lion"
(Vocalion CDLK 4371) 60:22
The earlier of these films, "The Lion" (made in 1962) is set in Africa, while the second "Nine Hours From Rama", covering the day in 1948 when Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated, comes from 1963. Therefore we have examples of Malcolm Arnold’s ideas of African and Indian music – rather different from St. Trinians! Both scores work well when experienced in the cinema, but for purely listening pleasure at home I personally prefer "The Lion", where the full-bodied Arnold sound from his film composing years is far more evident. This is an important addition to the currently available catalogue of film music. David Ades
Brass and Military Band
BANDSTAND IN THE PARK – VOLUME TWO
(See track listing page 65 of JIM 176) (Guild, GLCD 5147)
I eagerly awaited the arrival of this latest addition to the Guild series as older recordings by brass and military bands are as scarce as the proverbial hen's teeth! I wanted to see if volume two achieved the high standard of volume one (as Tony Clayden observed 'the second cup of tea syndrome’). I need not have worried; David Ades has come up trumps again (as usual) with a diverse and interesting collection from days when every town and village boasted its own band. William Lang's cornet playing on Jenny Wren is top class, but that is only to be expected from the Black Dyke Mills Band, magnificent 50 years ago and still going strong! However, the standout for me are the two offerings from the Band of the Royal Netherlands Navy; Royal Review by Leslie Statham under his 'Arnold Steck' guise; and Tony Lowry's rollicking Golden Spurs, tracks which, in their original form, were both sides of a Chappell 78. How good to hear these again. I'm pleased that Sousa's High School Cadets by the Grand Massed Bands is included. Australian collectors will have this on one of Frank Bristow's earlier CDs, but it deserves the wider audience, bringing together memories of Hanwell Silver, Lewisham British Legion, St. Hilda's and St. Pancras Brass under the masterful baton of James Oliver. Kenneth J. Alford is represented with The Great Little Army, and Bob Farnon, Ronnie Binge, Eric Coates and the well known Roger Barsotti all make the list with great bands like Fodens, Grenadier Guards and Central Band of the RAF all there. Borodin's Prince Igor Ballet Dances from the BBC Wireless Military Band brings up the rear with a memorable performance, having earlier featured on the CD with the restful Evensong. Devotees, please buy this in droves, then we can urge David for a volume three in due course. Graham Miles
Vocal
WARM AND SINCERE
Kitty Kallen (Sepia, 1114) 74:10
Another welcome helping of Kitty Kallen from Sepia! This second volumes accompanies the 2003 release ‘Our Lady Kitty Kallen’. There are 27 recordings ranging from 1949-1957. With the usual fine remastering by RFS member Robin Cherry, this compilation features such favourites as In the Chapel in the Moonlight, True Love, East of the Sun and Little Things Mean a Lot along with some titles new to me such as Let’s Make the Most of Tonight, The Second Greatest Sex and Hideaway Heart. Kitty is accompanied by orchestras directed by Sid Feller and Jack Pleis, who both do sterling work. A very nice collection, with a certain resemblance to our very own Joan Regan in her vocals. Even includes a recent photo of the lady herself in the well designed and plush CD booklet. Adam Endacott
MEL TORMÉ MEETS THE BRITISH
Mel Torme with the Orchestras of WALLY STOTT, TED HEATH, ROLAND SHAW and CYRIL STAPLETON. (Sepia 1113) 56:58
Limehouse Blues, A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square, I’ve Got a Lovely Bunch of Coconuts, These Foolish Things, Geordie, My One and Only Highland Fling, White Cliffs of Dover, Danny Boy, Let There Be Love, Greensleeves, Try a Little Tenderness, London Pride – plus bonus tracks: Walkin’ Shoes, Cuckoo In The Clock, Hooray For Love, Shenandoah Valley, Waltz for Young Lovers, I Don’t Want to Walk Without You, Time Was, Ev’ry Which Way. (Sepia 1113) 56:58. Mel Tormé’s British recordings from 1956 and 1957 caused quite a stir in popular music circles at the time, and it’s good to be able to hear ‘the velvet fog’ once again in these fine digital restorations of that landmark Philips album. We may have lost the regular releases of vintage material from Sanctuary Living Era, but happily Sepia can be relied upon to keep coming up with interesting new issues. Furthermore, when they reissue an LP they always seem to add additional tracks so that buyers get value for money. On top of that the CD booklets are generously filled with notes and photos. The only missing element is information about the original catalogue numbers, but that is a minor criticism. This new CD will be warmly welcomed especially for the Wally Stott charts, which range from lush orchestral to exciting big band. David Ades
I had always imagined Mr Tormé’s singing to be a taste I did not wish to acquire but having listened to this CD sent to me for review [now there is a first!] I’m almost a fan. The label, too, was only a name to me and this is the first of their albums I have heard. It is a quality product at the upper end of the budget-priced market and they are to be congratulated. The first dozen tracks listed above are all enhanced by Wally Stott and his Orchestra, as are Time Was and Tormé’s own Ev’ry Which Way. The guitar of Ivor Mairants is featured on Tenderness. Ted Heath and his Music accompany onWalkin’ Shoes and Johnny Mercer’s The Cuckoo in the Clock. Cyril Stapleton and his Orchestra and the Roland Shaw Orchestra share the remaining four tracks. There are informative liner notes by Tony Middleton. And Robin Cherry’s re-mastering brings these tracks up as fresh as the proverbial paint. Peter Burt
ALAN DALE SINGS
Alan Dale (Sepia, 1115) 75:20
A compilation from an unknown vocalist to me, Alan Dale. Once again Sepia has issued a most enjoyable collection and has brought a long forgotten name back into the public domain. With 27 tracks, this CD is great fun with plenty of upbeat numbers and a good mixture of songs from the punchy first track, Waiting for the Robert E Lee, through to Moonlight and Roses and even Robin Hood (although I do prefer Dick James on this one!) Orchestras supporting include Dick Jacobs, Ray Bloch and Percy Faith and recording dates range from 1947-1956. Mentioning Percy Faith, it is I’m Late from the Disney film ‘Alice in Wonderland’ which is the stand out track and Mr Faith is doing his usual excellent job as the accompanying orchestra. An enjoyable crooner and another unique title to add to the Sepia Record range. Adam Endacott
THROUGH THE YEARS Volume One 1950-1951
Autumn Leaves, I’ve Never Been in Love Before, A Perfect Day, May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You, With My Shillelagh Under My Arm, Sentimental Music, Silver Moon, Copacabana, Quizas, Quizas, Quizas [Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps], and more
Bing Crosby [Sepia 1111] 74’43"
It’s a long time since I listened to a Crosby CD and this, as one would expect, is full of good things. In his detailed liner notes Malcolm Macfarlane tells us that in 1950 Bing had eleven records making the hit chart and he came third in the USA movie box office stars poll. 1951 marked the 20thanniversary of his debut as a solo act. Incidentally, it is interesting to read the quotes on the original recordings taken from reviews in The Gramophone magazine – imagine that happening today! Among the 25 tracks, finely re-mastered by Robin Cherry, Axel Stordahl provides an excellent orchestral arrangement on the opening classic, there are four with the Andrews Sisters, including the charming Hawaiian ‘green’ Christmas song Mele Kalikimaka, Frank Loesser’s If I Were a Bell with Patti Andrews, and a delightful Silver Bells [one of five seasonal titles] with Carole Richards, and Tommy Dorsey and his Orchestra accompany on another quartet of tracks. Three titles feature John Scott Trotter and his Orchestra, a name associated with tasteful arrangements for Bing over 15 years. Other orchestras involved are those of Vic Schoen, Sonny Burke, Ken Darby and Matty Matlock. The Bando Da Lua accompany on the last two items. But it is not just the singing and playing that are the quality products here. Well done, Sepia, looking forward to more of the same. Peter Burt
The Sepia Records CD range are available directly from Sepia and cost £7.99 per CD (including P&P – unless otherwise noted). Cheques are welcome, made payable to Sepia Records Limited and Paypal payment only via their website www.sepiarecords.com which also features their entire catalogue. Sepia Records Limited, 96 Tubbs Road, London, NW10 4SB, England. They are also available from the RFS Record Service, price £8.50 each.
LIONEL MONCKTON : SONGS FROM THE SHOWS
Ronald Corp and his Orchestra and Chorus (Hyperion, A67654)
This new CD shows what a great composer and lyricist Lionel Monkton was – he is right up there with Sullivan and Kern! On this recording the two soloists could not be bettered just listen to Two Little Sausages, a patter song to stand the test of time with the best. Catherine Bott has a delightful voice but goes one better with her use of her acting skills with the accents she is able to bring to Try Again Johnnie from ‘A Country Girl’, set in Devon and the Yorkshire of Mary from ‘Our Miss Gibbs’. Add to this the style of Richard Stuart and the back up from Ronald Corp and his chorus and orchestra and you have a winning CD of the year! This CD should be in the Christmas stocking of all lovers of light music - play it after Christmas lunch, a pleasant joy for both old and young. Malcolm Lewis
Dance Band/Nostalgia
BING AND BOB
You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby, Old Folks, My Reverie, Tea for Two, Yes Indeed, Jingle Bells, San Antonia Rose, It Makes No Difference Now, Delores, Pale Moon, Lazy, Let’s Start the New Year Right, I’ve Got |Plenty to Be Thankful For, I’ll Capture Your Heart, When My Dream Boat Comes Home, Walkin’ the Floor Over You, Big Noise from Winnetka, Two Sleepy People, Begin the Beguine, Long Time No See, Your Easy to Dance With, I Can’t Tell a Lie, Stompin’ at the Savoy and Swing Mr Charlie
Bing and Bob Crosby (Sounds of Yester Year DSOY749) 68:20
Compiler John Bennett has put together all the tracks Bing Crosby recorded with his brother Bob and his orchestra plus nine other tracks recorded between 1936 and 1942. Guests featured on five tracks are The Andrews Sisters, Judy Garland, Connee Boswell and Fred Astaire. A chance for nostalgia buffs to turf out well worn records (if so inclined!)
Paul Clatworthy
THE COMPLETE BOB CATS (Volume one of three)
Stumbling, Who’s Sorry Now?, Coquette, Fidgety Feet, You’re Driving Me Crazy, Can’t We Be Friends?, Martha, Home on the Range, Gypsy Love Song, Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life, March of the Bob Cats, Palesteena, Slow Mood, Big Foot Jump, The Big Crash From China, Five Point Blues, Speak to Me of Love, Big Bass Viol, I Hear You Talking, Call Me a Taxi, The Big Noise from Winnetka, Looping the Loop, Beguine, Hindustan and Long Time No See
The Bob Cats (Sounds of Yester Year DSOY750) 71:34
This collection takes in many titles I’ve never heard of! Not being a fan of jazz this old makes it hard to be objective! I can say it’s a very spirited jamboree well played by Yank Lawson, Matty Matlock, Nappy Lamare, Eddie Miller, Billy Butterfield, Bob Haggart and other players of the same calibre. I liked three of the slower tunes, Can’t We Be Friends?, Slow Mood and Five Point Blues but the same pattern that the more frantic numbers dished out left me cold! I will not be seeking the other two volumes!
Paul Clatworthy
Finally some recent releases noted by Wilfred Askew
GUYS AND DOLLS
Featuring Vivian Blaine and Frank Sinatra. Contains all the original music from the 1955 film and other bonus tracks. (Blue Moon, BMCD3507) 79:59
FERRANTE AND TEICHER — THE SOUND OF TOMORROW TODAY!
Two albums from 1956, not for the faint-hearted, more for space age/exotica fans. Tracks includeWhat is This Thing Called Love?, The Breeze and I, African Heroes, Lover, Brazil, Orchids in the Moonlight, Siboney, La Cucaracha etc (Cherry Red, ACMEM124CD) 68:17
THE BRASS RING – LOVE THEME FROM THE FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX/LARA’S THEME
Two albums from 1966. Tracks include My Foolish Heart, Moment to Moment, Moon River, Secret Love, Laura, California Dreamin’, Born Free, Dear John etc (Collectors’ Choice, CCM840) 56:31
CARMEN CAVALLARO – PLAYS ELLINGTON/COCKTAILS WITH
Two albums from 1965 and 1956. Tracks include I’m Beginning to See the Light, Satin Doll, Solitude, I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart, Till, All the Way, Just in Time, I Remember it Well etc (Fine and Mellow, FM603) 72:21
LAWRENCE WELK – INTO THE FIFTIES
Two CD set - tracks include Bubbles in the Wine, The Lingering Song, Devil Lips, Rice, The Game of Love, Namely You, Bells Are Ringing etc (Jasmine, JASCD477) 125:15
LENNY DEE – IN DEEMAND
Two CD set – tracks include My Buddy, Bye Bye Blues, When Day is Done, Where or When, I Get Ideas, High Tide Boogie, Crazy Organ Rag, Them There Eyes etc. (Jasmine, JASCD468) 145:57
JACKIE DAVIS – JUMPING HI-FI HAMMOND
Two CD set. Tracks include Time Was, I Hear a Rhapsody, Where in the World, Darn That Dream, Coffee Time, Long Before I Knew You, All of You, Wish etc. (Jasmine, JASCD472) 136:19
GEORGE MELACHRINO: THE MELACHRINO STRINGS AND ORCHESTRA with SEMPRINI Soft Lights and Sweet Music
Introduction and Song of the orchid from the film "No Orchids for Miss Blandish", Rhondda Rhapsody, Love’s roundabout, Sleigh ride, Ecstasy Tango, The Melba Waltz, Golden violins, Park Avenue Waltz, A Girl called Linda, Vanessa, Meet Mister Callaghan, La Rosita, Waltz of Paree, Padam Padam, The sword and the rose, Shadows / Soft lights and sweet music, The touch of your lips, Theme from ‘The Last Rhapsody’, I’ll see you again, Love’s old sweet song, Beautiful dreamer, Ah! Sweet mystery of life, Theme from the film "The Story of Three Loves", Love walked in, Goodnight sweetheart
Vocalion CDVS 1956 [76:38]
With 26 tracks of classy numbers played by one of the leading light music orchestras of all-time given "the supreme magician of CD re-mastering" Mike Dutton’s treatment and all for only £2.99 in the shops [that’s 11½p per track], this must be a front runner to receive the accolade of "Bargain CD of the Year." The first 16 tracks are singles released between 1946-57 and the second 10 comprise the 1954 LP after which the CD is named. William Hill-Bowen, for many years Melachrino’s right-hand man, wrote Park Avenue Waltz, and is the harpsichordist featured on Vanessa and Meet Mr Callaghan– great to hear that particular piece again. The fondly remembered Albert Semprini ["Old ones, new ones, loved ones, neglected ones"] is the pianist on the themes from ‘The Last Rhapsody’, and the film "The Story of Three Loves" – Rachmaninoff, of course. No liner notes, although that is probably no surprise on such a low-priced album. Peter Burt
50 YEARS OF THE MUSIC OF LAURIE JOHNSON – Volume 2
CD 1 – Music from the TV series "The Professionals"; CD 2 – TV themes from "Jason King", "Top Secret", "Echo Four Two" and "Ren & Stimpy" ("Happy Go Lively" from the KPM mood music library); Early singles "Drum Crazy", "Jamboree", "Lullaby Of The Leaves" and "Winter Wonderland"; Film scores from "The First Men In The Moon Suite" and "Ibsen’s Hedda Suite"; Concerto for Trumpet, Tenor Sax and Orchestra. CD 3 – Royal Military Spectacular "Three Paintings by Lautrec Suite", "Colours for Concert Band Suite" and Concert Hall works "The Battle of Waterloo" and "The Wind In The Willows" (tone poem).
Edsel EDSD 2021 3 CDs (box set) [217:46].
Earlier in this issue you will have read Peter Burt’s praise for the first volume in this series in his "Back Tracks" column. I have been collecting Laurie Johnson’s recordings for over fifty years, so you could say I am also biased! But who can fail to be impressed by the sheer musicianship, and astonishing versatility displayed in these three CDs. And don’t forget that this is just the second volume in an ongoing project, which makes Laurie’s massive contribution to music even more astounding. Perhaps the big selling point for TV addicts will be the music from "The Professionals" stretching over 52 cues. Laurie has worked personally to unearth these from his own private collection, otherwise they would probably have been neglected and, perhaps, lost forever. The famous "Professionals" theme is there, of course, but it is all the other music cues that are so fascinating. The second CD focuses on Laurie’s TV themes, early singles, film scores and concert hall work. The final piece features The London Big Band and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Laurie Johnson, with Guy Barker (trumpet) and Tommy Whittle (tenor saxophone). Malcolm Laycock’s booklet note says it all: "The work received a standing ovation at the concert at the Royal Albert Hall. I think it is one of Laurie’s great achievements, a work of outstanding emotional depth and resonance which connected to everybody in the audience at the concert. It is simply sublime, it soars, it is triumphant, it is inspiring". Laurie had his grounding in military music and it is clearly very important to him. The third CD concentrates on this side of his creativity, and features The London Brass Chorale and The Band of the Coldstream Guards conducted by Laurie Johnson – Three Paintings by Lautrec Suite; RAF Central Band and RAF Squadronaires conducted by Laurie Johnson –Colours For Concert Band Suite and The Battle of Waterloo. The final track is actually orchestral, with Laurie conducting his tone poem The Wind In The Willows. I know that it is Laurie’s wish that his music should be available to those interested at a reasonable price. He is not out to make money from this project, which is obvious when you see that each CD inside the box set has its own booklet, crammed with notes and photographs. Many of us would happily pay £30 for a set like this, but you should be able to find it for a fraction of this price. On behalf of your legion of admirers, all I can really say is a heartfelt and sincere "Thank-you, Laurie – for everything". David Ades This 3-CD set is available from the RFS Record Service price £10.
LEROY ANDERSON Orchestral Music Volume 4
BBC Concert Orchestra / Leonard Slatkin; Kim Criswell [soprano], William Dazeley [baritone]
Irish Suite, To a wild rose, Summer skies, Scottish Suite, Blue Tango, Forgotten dreams, Belle of the ball, Alma mater, A Christmas Festival
Naxos 8559381 [60:26]
Among the highlights of 2008’s albums has been this series by the classically trained composer whose records made the pop charts. The, by now, familiar mix is here with concentration on Anderson’s arrangements, as well as revisions or alternative versions of his own output, includingAlma Mater, a reworking of his 1939 suite Harvard Sketches [recorded on Vol.3 - Naxos 8559357]. The Scottish Suite was written a handful of years after the better known Irish Suite. Three of its four pieces have been heard before but this is a world première recording for the complete suite. It’s good, with some rollicking horns on the ‘new’ piece, Bonnie Dundee. First time on disc, too, are the vocal versions of Anderson’s Tango, Ball and the Robert Wendell arranged Dreams – none of which are much to my liking on a first hearing. The lyricist is Mitchell Parish of Stardust, Deep Purple andSweet Lorraine fame. A fifth world première is Anderson’s orchestration of Edward MacDowell’s Rose. Leonard Slatkin has got the music just right and the BBC musicians excel throughout. For this release Naxos have sensibly put the seasonal music at the end of the disc. Richard S. Ginell’s liner notes are as admirable as ever. Peter Burt
THE MUSIC OF GRANT FOSTER
Novaya Rossia State Orchestra, conducted by Alexander Anissimov; featuring Mira Yevtich [piano], and Maria Safaryanc [violin]
Celebration Overture; Rhapsody for Piano and Orchestra; Ballade for Piano and Violin; Four Voyages for Piano – Buenos Aires, Moscow, Venice, Marrakesh
Bel Air Music BAM 2041 [65:00]
I am indebted to Gramophone critic Andrew Lamb for making me aware of this wonderful music. Andrew began his review stating "This is amazing! Where has Grant Foster been all these years?" A more pertinent question may be why don’t we get the chance to hear and buy more lovely music like this? The answer is probably that it doesn’t suit the musical snobs to admit that anything hinting of melody is worthy of their attention. If some of the noise that invades the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall is anything to go by they must be in their element each summer; fortunately the rest of us don’t have to go along with them. Rant over ... now on to the music! The CD opens with Celebration Overture performed by the Orchestra. This establishes Grant Foster’s credentials as a composer capable of matching any of his contemporaries, especially those working in the movies. But Mr. Foster creates his music far from Hollywood – in Sydney, Australia, where he was born in 1945. In previous years he has lived and worked in Paris and London, but he is now back home where he teaches music and has a small, but enthusiastic following locally; hopefully this release may make the rest of the world sit up and take notice. The Rhapsody for Piano and Orchestra features Mira Yevtich as the soloist, and it is particularly enjoyable watching her perform the work on the accompanying DVD, which must be considered as a kind of bonus (let’s hope the idea spreads!). Her playing is both gentle and dominant, and I suspect that the composer will have been delighted with her interpretation. This work certainly rewards repeated listening, although it is instantly appealing on the first hearing. The rest of the CD is without the orchestra, leaving Mira Yevtich to take centre stage. She is joined by Maria Safaryanc in the Ballade for Piano and Violin, but she is alone in theFour Voyages – reminding us that we are missing so much because we rarely hear solo piano playing of such quality these days. I make no apology for the length of this review – it simply deserves it. In fact I could say a lot more (and there are plenty of interesting facts in the booklet notes), but it is better to let the music speak for itself. If you are looking for something fresh and new to add to your collection – and you are willing to be adventurous – you need look no further. David Ades
[Available from Amazon and other retailers; or from the RFS Record Service for £14.] CD plus DVD of the Rhapsody for Piano and Orchestra
MANTOVANI AND HIS ORCHESTRA Gems Forever/ Mantovani Memories
All the things you are, True love, I could have danced all night, You keep coming back like a song, A woman in love, This nearly was mine, Summertime, Something to remember you by, An affair to remember, Love letters, The nearness of you, Hey, there! / Smoke gets in your eyes, What a wonderful world, The Trolley Song, Sweet Leilani, Try to remember, Sunrise, sunset, The Anniversary Waltz, In the still of the night, Once upon a time, Embraceable you, How are things in Glocca Morra?, You’ll never walk alone
Vocalion CDLK 4374 [76:00]
Mantovanians, especially, are indebted to Mike Dutton as these two immaculate albums on one disc bring the number of the light music luminary’s CDs from Vocalion [mostly comprising two LPs] to 27.‘Gems’, in early stereo from 1959 [it had been issued in mono in 1958 under a different title], pays tribute to American composers and, probably thanks to Stateside fans, was a million seller by the mid ‘60s. The opening melody is, to quote Colin Mackenzie in his liner notes, truly "sumptuous." Other stand-out moments include the fine trumpet of Stan Newsome on the Gershwin classic, the combination of a vibraphone with the high strings on True love, and the bell effect from the strings on the alluring Something to remember.
‘Memories’ originates from a decade later and opens with a typically lush version, arranged by Monty himself, of what is often reckoned to be the greatest popular song ever written. I wonder why In the still of the night was omitted from the original CD? Cecil Milner has included a chorus in his arrangements of Wonderful, Sunrise, and Walk but it complements the orchestral sound. Trolley,Sweet and Try are three of the interesting Roland Shaw arrangements to be found on the album. On the Mantovani Fan Website [www.hallowquest.com], Scott Raeburn rates this as one of Vocalion’s best ever re-issues. If you are not normally in the market for Mantovani CDs, why not give yourself a treat for Christmas? Peter Burt
FILM NOIR
City of Prague Philharmonic arranged and conducted by Carlos Franzetti
Girl talk, Last tango in Paris, The voyage of the damned, I want to live, Still time, A place in the sun, Taxi driver, The bad and the beautiful, Tango Fatal , Alfie
Sunnyside SSC 1180 [45:31]
Superb choice of film music with evocative sympathetic scoring for a fine orchestra; only one flaw, the soloist, sax player Andy Fusco. He blows too hard and often gets lost in a flurry of notes trying to prove how fast his fingers are. Stan Getz is no longer with us but there are many players currently around who could do better justice to the thought put into the arranging. The times when Andy does not try to dominate the orchestra make for a better listen. Paul Clatworthy
NIGEL HESS: CONCERTO FOR PIANO AND ORCHESTRA
Lang Lang [piano], London Chamber Orchestra conducted by Christopher Warren-Green
UCJ 1774850 [23:57]
At last April’s London RFS Meeting Nigel Hess gave advance notice that this CD would appear during the summer, so many readers may already have been on the look-out for it. The work was commissioned by Prince Charles in memory of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth – affectionately known to the nation for five decades as ‘The Queen Mother’. According to the booklet notes Prince Charles wanted something that audiences would enjoy at a first hearing, and there is no doubt that Nigel Hess has succeeded brilliantly. But at the same time there is so much in this beautiful work that becomes more pleasing following repeated listening – it is certainly a work worth getting to know. The Chinese pianist Lang Lang demonstrates that he fully deserves his international reputation, and it is incredible to think that he made his debut as recently as 2003. This is a truly lovely piece of music, whether or not you are familiar with the influences that prompted its creation. Each new work from Nigel Hess further strengthens his claim to be one of England’s foremost contemporary composers, but he is such a modest man that such words would never pass his lips! The short total time of the CD (there are no other works included) is reflected in the price. UK readers should be able to find copies around £6. David Ades
‘DREAMTIME’ – Light Music Classics Volume 3
El relicario [My memoirs] – Morton Gould; Tic-tac-toe, On the Alamo, It had to be you – Hugo Winterhalter; The girl with the Spanish drawl [Wow! Wow! Wow!], Caribbean night – Percy Faith; Belle of the ball – Leroy Anderson; Sicilian tarantella [Fischiettando], Overnight – Victor Young; The call of the faraway hills, The Melba Waltz [Dreamtime] – Victor Young Singing Strings; Fiddlesticks, Rendezvous – Tutti Camarata; High Strung, Sadie Thompson’s song[Blue Pacific blues] – Axel Stordahl; I get a kick out of you – David Rose; ‘Dreamtime – The Strings of Stordahl’: As time goes by, A blues serenade, It’s easy to remember, That old feeling, Imagination, What is there to say?, Love letters, I’m getting sentimental over you – Axel Stordahl
Vocalion CDVS 1957 [71:55]
Another super bargain-priced CD from Vocalion, and all that David Ades wrote about ‘Stringopation’[CDVS1954] in the June JIM applies here. This time the spotlight falls on some great American orchestras recorded between 1950-57, with Axel Stordahl’s delightful 1953 late-night listening LP, after which the release is named, bringing the album to a close. Other highlights for me are the two exuberant Faith tracks, the French horns and pizzicato strings on Tic-tac-toe, the Irish-soundingTarantella, Victor Young’s haunting Faraway Hills, and the lilting Melba Waltz. But every track has something to commend it. Mike Dutton can keep this series going for as long as he likes. I did not expect any liner notes, so was not disappointed. Peter Burt
MUSIC FROM THE MOVIES
Gaumont British Symphony, Louis Levy; Hallé Orchestra, William Walton; London Symphony Orchestra, Muir Mathieson; Music from the Movies Orchestra, Louis Levy; Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Muir Mathieson; Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, John Hollingsworth; Philharmonia Orchestra, Ernest Irving
Music from the movies – march [Levy], Spitfire fugue [Walton] from film "The First of the Few"; Seascape [Parker] "Western Approaches"; Calypso music [Alwyn] "The Rake’s Progress"; The last walk [Williamson] "The Edge of the World"; Waltz into jig [Greenwood] "Hungry Hill"; Incidental music from "The Overlanders"[Ireland]; Prelude from "49th Parallel" [Vaughan Williams]; Theme music from "Cure for Love" [Alwyn]; Romance [Green] "The Magic Bow"; Theme from "Esther Waters"[Jacob]; Derby Day 1886 [Jacob] "Esther Waters"; London scene [Wilkinson] "The Weaker Sex"; Sleeping car train, Waltz from film "Sleeping Car to Trieste" [Frankel]; Dinner at Lady Datchett’s [Williamson] "Woman Hater"; Joanna’s theme, Alec’s theme, Title music from "High Tide at Noon, Title music from "The Spanish Gardener" [Veale]; Theme and incidental music from "Yangtse Incident" [Lucas]; Incidental music from "The Loves of Joanna Godden" [Vaughan Williams]
Vocalion CDEA 6146 [75:13]
All the music on this well-filled CD was heard in British movies [did we call them that in those days?] from 1937 to 1957; the earliest being the familiar first track and the latest being the two watery films, "High Tide at Noon" and "Yangtse Incident." Many of the items appear on CD for the first time. It is good that they should be remembered as there are some fine tunes here – melodic, dramatic, evocative – several by composers best known to classical music buffs, and probably many are more memorable than the films for which they were written. Lewis Foreman’s booklet notes are full of information; I was particularly interested to read about John Veale, a name previously unknown to me. Reginald Leopold, later of BBC Radio’s "Grand Hotel" fame, is the solo violinist on Philip Green’sRomance. Once again a Vocalion release commendable for its choice of material and digital re-mastering. And at budget price especially well worth acquiring. Peter Burt
BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC PREMIERES – VOLUME 5
Royal Ballet Sinfonia, conductor Gavin Sutherland, Barry Wordsworth¹; BBC Concert Orchestra, conductor Roderick Dunk ² Roy Budd – Tricolour Overture; Francis Chagrin – Aquarelles [Portraits of Five Children]; Paul Carr – Concerto for Oboe & String Orchestra, Air for Strings¹; Gavin Sutherland – Clarinet Concerto; Richard Addinsell – Ring Round the Moon Suite²
Dutton Epoch CDLX 7209 [79:37]
Yet again Mike Dutton has demonstrated his admirable dedication to contemporary British music. We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to add music like this to our collections. Each of these works is a most welcome addition to the available catalogue of recorded music, and they all have their own special appeal. To be precise, the Francis Chagrin Aquarelles and Richard Addinsell’s Invitation Waltzare not, strictly speaking, premières, but who can complain at these fine new recordings by the precious BBC Concert Orchestra. I say ‘precious’ deliberately, because this orchestra is so important to Britain’s musical culture, yet you sometimes get the impression that it does not receive the support from the musical establishment that it deserves. If we lost it, that would be a tragedy – hence my word ‘precious’. We must not allow a repeat of the act of cultural barbarism when the BBC axed the BBC Radio Orchestra. To return to the repertoire, who can ever have imagined that we would be offered Richard Addinsell’s full suite Ring Round The Moon. Heartfelt thanks to Philip Lane for reconstructing it. The booklet notes are both informative and revealing, and this entire production is top quality. We must support new releases like this. David Ades Dutton Epoch CDs are available from the RFS Record Service price £10.50.
THE GREAT SOUNDS OF THE PIANO ACCORDIAN BANDS –
Geraldo; Eric Winstone; Roberto (George Scott-Wood); Primo Scala; The London Piano Accordian Band
CD1: The Poor People of Paris (PS); So Tired (LPA) ; Wrap Yourself In Cotton Wool (EW) ; Bluebell Polka (PS); Jingle, Jangle, Jingle (EW); Moonlight Avenue (LPA); Isle Of Capri (PS); I Know Why(EW); Take Me To Your Heart Again (LPA); Jealousy/Romanesca (EW); Old Timer (G); Lullaby Of The Volga (PS); Medley: Flame Of Desire/Sunshine and Roses/Tom Thumb’s Drum/Rhymes (G); Roll Along Covered Wagon (PS); Memories Of Spain (EW); Sleepy Time In Sleepy Hollow (G) … and more
CD2: If Could Paint A Memory (EW); Johnny Ragtime; On Treasure Island (PS); Rose O’Day (EW), All For A Shilling A Day (R); The Rose In Her Hair (PS); When Night Is Through (EW); Alpine Valse (R); Grinzing; A Street In Old Seville (G); Underneath The Arches; Here Comes The Rainbow (PS); Medley: Sweet And Lovely/Put Your Little Arms Around Me/Cuban Love Song/You Forgot Your Gloves(G); Lady, Sing Your Gypsy Song; Hey! Mabel (EW) … and more
Rex REXX 321 [76:08 & 77.19]
In 2004 I drew attention to a two-CD set on the Rex label, ‘Time for Accordion’ (REXX 305), featuring various accordion bands and soloists that saw their heyday during the 1930’s/50’s. That set (still available) was notable for the inclusion of bands which had hitherto not seen the light of day since their original issue on 78’s. I ended my review "More please!!" My wish it seems has now been granted. The current set is a worthy successor, and focuses primarily on the bands listed above. Like Primo Scala and Scott-Wood, the Eric Winstone Accordion Band and his smaller accordion groups broadcast frequently on BBC radio during the 1940’s. It is high time these commercial recordings were reissued since the ensemble has been unjustly neglected. It has a very distinctive sound which sets it apart from standard accordion band fare since it includes strings and flutes, etc. Tracks have vocals by Cyril Grantham and a young Julie Dawn. Other singers on the CDs are Alan Kane, The Keynotes and Phil Phillips. The Geraldo ensemble also has a lighter touch and is a very different set up from the Latin-style Gaucho Tango Band of the 1930’s which also hosted three or four accordionists. Of the Primo Scala tracks one or two are duplicated on other CD issues by the artist. However some transfers from the Embassy label sold exclusively in Woolworths appear on CD for the first time. These represent some of the last recordings made by the band before Harry Bidgood’s untimely death in 1957. A significant proportion of the 50 tracks on this 2-CD set have never been released on LP or CD before and have been well re-mastered from the original shellacs. This is an enterprising issue and a welcome addition to the catalogue at budget price. Brian Stringer
JACK SIMPSON AND HIS SEXTET Jack’s the Boy For Work
Rise and Shine; Only Passing Clouds; Track 3; Once Upon a Winter Time; I Got Rhythm; Oasis; Take it Away; The Boogie Woogie Piggy; Stampede; The First Day of Summer; Chatanooga Choo Choo; I’d Give the World; Oh Lady Be Good; Mirage; Is It Too Late; Sweetheart We’ll Never Grow Old; Watch the Birdie; Time May Change; Stagecoach; Did You Ever Get That Feeling in the Moonlight; I’ve Got You Before My Eyes; I Cried for You; Jack’s the Boy For Work
Sunflower SUN 2176 [68:57]
Jack Simpson’s swing sextet/septet/band used to broadcast on the BBC’s "Music While You Work." He has been unjustly neglected by the music companies who have brought us so many other wonderful restorations in recent years; a CD was issued by Vocalion in 2007 (CDEA 6122), which was very welcome, and since this latest Sunflower release duplicates only a few of the tracks that appear on the Vocalion it is worth acquiring. For a sextet, Jack Simpson provides great diversity of styles. The group sometimes play in swing mood with a style reminiscent of Stephane Grappelli, at other times he reverts to a more romantic mode. Of course Jack is renowned for his dazzling renderings on both xylophone and marimba of which several examples are provided on this CD. He played in many of the outstanding bands of his day such as those of Phil Green, Ambrose and Freddy Gardner. The group comprised well-known musicians such as Reg Leopold, Oscar Grasso on violins, accordionists Scott-Wood or Phil Green plus guitarists such as Ivor Mairants from Geraldo’s band plus a double bass player. At a later stage Stanley Black joined the group on piano as did Aubrey Franks on sax. Betty Kent was one of the group’s regular vocalists, though some tracks on this CD are purely instrumental. The CD is woefully lacking in specific track details, although there are informative sleeve notes by Barry McCanna. The transfers are excellent with clear and full bodied sound. Unfortunately Sunflower CDs are not easy to come by. This one is not on the HMV or Amazon websites. If you require a copy I suggest you try The Great Music Company on 01280 823568 or go to their website at www.greatmusic.co.uk. It should only cost you around £5. Brian Stringer
LEE GIBSON Here’s to Love
Lee Gibson with Andy Panayi [flute and alto sax]; James Pearson [piano]; Sam Burgess [bass]; Chris Dagley [drums]
No moon at all, Easy to love, The nearness of you, Every little thing, Love dance, Joy spring, The shadow of your smile, Not like this, Come back to me, Here’s to life, Just friends
Spotlight SPJ CD 578 [56:06]
Although not really my kind of music [I received this in my new role as pro tempore Keeping Track editor] I can recognize an extremely musical singer when I hear one, whatever the form. Miss Gibson, who is an Associate Professor at the Guildhall School of Music, sings on this album what I would call fairly "straight" jazz, without too much improvisation, at which I understand she is "formidable." She is highly regarded in the jazz world and Sheila Tracy writes in the liner notes: "I have watched her progress from a good singer, which she always was, to a quite exceptional one who is now world class." The backing group sounds, too, are more than acceptable. Dave Gelly writes interestingly about the songs and Robin Cherry is responsible for the CD mastering. If you are not normally into jazz but fancy a representative album in your collection, then you could do a lot worse than to go for this one. I would think that readers of Paul Clatworthy’s column need not hesitate. Peter Burt
MY FAIR LADY Original Broadway Cast 1956
including bonus tracks ‘Lyrics By Lerner, Music by Loewe’: A jug of wine, Almost like being in love, The heather on the hill, There but for you go I, Love of my life
Naxos 8.120876 [72:07]
This is it, the original recording that took the musical theatre world by storm. It has come up as fresh as paint with transfers and production by David Lennick and digital restoration by Graham Newton. We can thrill again at Julie Andrew’s crystal clear singing voice and marvel at her transformation from guttersnipe to lady. We can admire anew the beautiful enunciation of Rex Harrison and Stanley Holloway’s wonderfully comical cockney portrayal of Higgins. Franz Allers conducts Loewe’s scintillating score, and there is a welcome additional item not found on the original LP: The Embassy Waltz played by Percy Faith and his Orchestra. So dim the lights, sit back, relax, and wallow in a joyous experience from beginning to end.
Ray Pavene
ALMA COGAN Ladies and Gentlemen, Miss Alma Cogan! Songs from "Take It from Here" and Other Gems
Intro: Take it from here, Isn’t life wonderful, What a perfect combination, If I had a golden umbrella, Mr Taptoe, The little fir tree, Sittin’ in the sun, A purple cow, Tennessee wig walk, Man, Pride of the Nancy Lee, Flirtation Waltz, and 60 other tracks
Sepia 8003 [2 CDs: 61:20 & 71:57]
Popular music was the poorer for the passing of Alma Cogan at the all too early age of 34 in 1966. A favourite from my late teenage years, Alma made her first record in 1952 and became known as "The girl with a laugh in her voice" from her bright and breezy style with such numbers as I can’t tell a waltz from a tango, The naughty lady from shady lane, Where will the dimple be?, Dreamboat [a 1955 No.1 hit], and Willie can – all may be found here. Alma became the first female vocalist to have her own TV series in Britain, 1959-61. The majority of tracks derive from the popular BBC radio show "Take It From Here" which starred Jimmy Edwards, June Whitfield and Dick Bentley, who duets with her on What a perfect combination. Included are previously never heard before versions of Alma’s more familiar recordings as well as songs making an appearance for the very first time. I was fascinated to hear Cornflake Jones, a vocal version of Sidney Norman’s (Norrie Paramor) novelty piece Cornflakes. Bandleader Billy Ternent [plus his orchestra] joins her on That’s what a rainy day is for and I love the way you say goodnight; and Banjo’s back in town was recorded in February 1956 unaccompanied due to a musicians’ strike! These well-filled CDs remind us that Miss Cogan was one of our greatest popular music divas ever. There is an excellent booklet, including a piece by Alma’s MD Stan Foster, to back up the music. Re-mastering is in the capable hands of Robin Cherry, and there is a modicum of surface noise. Unless you find of the sound of applause irritating, this is a recommendable release. Peter Burt
BING CROSBY AND FRIENDS
30 tracks
Sounds of Yesteryear [DSOY752]
This is culled from Crosby’s radio shows including Bob Hope, Patti Page, Judy Garland, Ethel Merman, Louis Armstrong, Jimmy Durante, Peggy Lee, Danny Kaye and many others. Judging by the audience laughter, some of the entertainment was visual. Many of the songs have now left the play lists but Crosby completists will love this CD. Paul Clatworthy
DEANNA DURBIN Mad About Music: Rarities and Gems
I love to whistle, A serenade to the stars, When I sing, Carmena waltz, The old refrain, Begin the beguine, Pale hands I loved, Say a pray’r for the boys over there, Russian Medley, Nessun Dorma, Always, Gimme a little kiss, will ya, huh? Night and day, Lover … and 9 other titles
Sepia 1117 [78:08]
Canadian born Deanna [Edna Mae at birth] Durbin had a big following in the late ‘30s and early-mid ‘40s and not for nothing was she known at one time as "The Queen of Universal Pictures." She wanted to be an opera star and her voice is a bit too operatic for my liking. Her many fans, however, will not be disappointed by this very well-filled album, all songs from movies. I loved the tango accompaniment on In the spirit of the moment. The glossy CD booklet is well up to Sepia’s high standards with very informative notes and mostly coloured photos/illustrations. Ray Pavene
JANE MORGAN Sings Showstoppers
Give my regards to Broadway/The Yankee Doodle Boy, Dancing in the dark, You’ll never walk alone, Toyland/Moonbeams, I love Paris/C’est magnifique, The Merry Widow Waltz, The surrey with the fringe on top, Hello young lovers, Hey there, A pretty girl is like a melody/Say it with music, So in love, They didn’t believe me … and 15 other titles
Sepia 1119 [76:06]
Before listening to this CD I must admit to knowing next to nothing about Miss Morgan, her earlier album ‘An American Songbird in Paris’ [Sepia 1098] not having come my way. What I know now is that this album gave me unalloyed pleasure from beginning to end. She has a remarkably pleasing lyric soprano voice that one could listen to for hours. Recorded in 1958, the selection of songs could hardly be bettered. The orchestra is directed by Frank Hunter, with some tasteful arrangements, and other musicians heard are The Troubadors [sic] directed by Marty Gold, and the piano duo of Ernest Bragg and Buddy Weed. On You’re just in love, from "Call Me Madam", the duettist is Michael Stewart. Since listening to this release I have discovered that Jane is a product of the Julliard School of Music and had chart success in the late ‘50s with Two different worlds, alongside Roger Williams,Fascination [from 1957 with three million sold by 1965], The day the rains came and With open arms. For me, then, quite a discovery and a release to treasure. Peter Burt
MARK MURPHY Love Is What Stays
Stolen moments, Angel eyes, My foolish heart, So doggone lonesome, What if, The interview, Once upon a summertime, Stolen moments, Love is what stays, Too late now, Blue cell phone, Did I ever live
Verve B0008906-02 [64:13]
The photo on the CD says it all: "I’ve been around but the music keeps me going." Mark’s singing has a sweet and sour contrast bringing a new layer of edginess to each song. The presence of awesome trumpet player Till Bronner, soloing and sometimes arranging, is a real bonus. Special accolades are due for the string arrangements of Nan Schwartyz, arranger for many American T.V. shows, the Boston Pops and many other singers, earning her Grammy nominations. She has obviously heard a few Johnny Mandel charts along the way! Paul Clatworthy
BOB CATS The Complete Bob Cats Volume 2
20 tracks
Sounds of Yesteryear DSOY751 [57:41]
BOB CATS The Complete Bob Cats Volume 3 It’s All Over Now
39 tracks on 2 CDs
Sounds of Yesteryear DSOY753 [56:31 & 50:51]
If my review of Volume 1 [see JIM 177] had already been published, these would probably not have been sent for review. Played back to back the compositions seem to merge into a steady relentless chug with little change in tempo. Your feet may start to twitch but the brain gets numb minute by minute. If you did get Vol.1 and enjoyed it, the music continues. Personnel are much the same; good players all playing their hearts out. Each to his own is all that I can add to my last review. Paul Clatworthy
PINOCCHIO
Sepia 1118 [76:47]
Sepia’s customary high standard booklet notes claim that this is "one of the merriest and most unusual collections" in their catalogue. The first 14 tracks are from ‘Pinocchio’ televised on U.S. NBC Television in October 1957. It is narrated by Mickey Rooney, who starred in the title role, with Fran Allison, Jerry Colonna, Stubby Kaye, Martyn Green and Gordon B Clarke. The music is by Alec Wilder and the lyricist is William Engvick, who wrote the English words for The song from Moulin Rouge [Where is your heart]. ‘Mickey Rooney Sings’ on the next eight tracks includes Yankee doodle boy,Give my regards to Broadway and Top hat, white tie and tails. ‘Fran Allison Sings.’ completes the CD with six tracks, four of which are for the kiddywinks. Certainly a bit different but enjoyable nevertheless. Ray Pavene
JASCHA HEIFETZ VIOLIN VIRTUOSO
Korngold: Violin concerto; Lalo: Symphonie Espagnole; George Gershwin: Prelude Nos. 1-3, Summertime, A woman is a sometime thing, My man’s gone now, It ain’t necessarily so, Tempo di blue, Bess, you is my woman now; Trad.: Deep River; Weill: Moderato assai [from "The Threepenny Opera"]; Benjamin: Jamaican rumba
Regis RRC 1296 [74:07]
The main attraction of this disc for JIM readers will probably be the popular pieces occupying the last 27 minutes and I have found myself repeatedly playing these dozen tracks. Emanuel Bay is the pianist on the Gershwin and Weill [Mack the Knife] items, Milton Kaye on the Benjamin and trad. As the very good 8-page booklet notes by Peter Avis remind us, Erich Wolfgang Korngold provided the scores for some 20 films, two of which were to win him Academy Awards and two more, Academy nominations. In fact, the concerto is based on music contained in four of his film themes – although it is not clear which came first. What is clear is that Heifetz, who died in 1987 aged 86, was a fabulous musician and this disc, available at a giveaway price if you shop around, bears witness to his being truly the ‘King of Violinists’
Peter Burt
WALLERMANIA - Tribute to Fats Waller ALEX HASSAN piano
Wallerama Medley, Palm Garden, Alligator Crawl, Happy Feeling, etc.. Shellwood SWCD 37 [68:13]
Alex Hassan has become one of Shellwood’s ‘regulars’, and this time he turns his attention to the great Fats Waller. Many of his famous hits form part of medleys, of which there are five in this collection, plus Waller’s 1940 "London Suite" with individual tunes honouring Piccadilly, Chelsea, Soho, Bond Street, Limehouse and Whitechapel. Hailing from Northern Virginia, Alex Hassan has immersed himself in popular piano music from the 1920s and 1930s, and the glorious sounds from that far-off era flow effortlessly through his gifted fingers. David Ades
JUST A LITTLE THING CALLED RHYTHM – Rhythmic Piano Rolls 1917-1936 Pianolist: Julian Dyer
Who, It’s De-Lovely, I’m Lonely Without You, Sweet Man, Moonlight on the Ganges, Sunny Side Up. Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man etc… 24 tracks
Shellwood SWCD 38 [75:39]
For the technically minded, Julian Dyer is playing a standard 88-note Aeolian Company ‘Pianola’. Piano rolls were the music industry’s answer to those aspiring pianists who simply weren’t very good! For us today they offer the chance to hear the kind of music that was enjoyed by our grandparents – and their parents – in the original arrangements. If you like syncopated piano this is just for you.David Ades
FRANCK POURCEL Platinum Collection
Chariot (I Will Follow Him), La Vie En Rose, Mon Dieu, The Magnificent Seven, Unforgettable, Blue Tango, Singing In The Rain, Saturday Night Fever, Concorde, Penny Lane, She, I Don’t Know How To Love Him, etc… 60 tracks
EMI France 3-CD box set 5099923570122 [178:44]
This latest offering of Franck Pourcel recordings has been compiled by RFS member Serge Elhaik, and it is taken from various LPs for Capitol USA from the 1960s to the 1980s. The informative booklet is in French, and some familiar numbers are listed only by their French titles, so you will encounter some surprises along the way! During this period Franck was adapting his earlier style to suit the changing music scene. As Ralph Harvey was quoted as writing in our last issue (page 66):
"Throughout the years Franck Pourcel has used imagination without gimmickry. It is true that his most recent recordings have introduced a ‘beat’ element which has disturbed some of his more traditionalist followers in France. Popular music, however, does not and cannot stand still and provided Franck keeps the sense of good taste he has shown over the past twenty-five years he has every reason to move with the times." Franck clearly did succeed in walking what some might call a musical tightrope, as his continuing popularity has confirmed. David Ades
The following new releases were noted just as we went to press. If any reviews are subsequently received, they will appear in a future issue. [Details taken from record company publicity].
DEBBIE WISEMAN – Different Voices
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Conducted by Debbie Wiseman
Naxos 8572022
"How about composing a new Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra?" suggested Ian Maclay, the general manager of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. I’ve always loved composing for full symphony orchestra, so this was a challenge that simply had to be met! I conducted the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the first live performance at London’s Cadogan Hall with Hayley Westenra adding her special touch to the song and Stephen Fry narrating in his own inimitable fashion. The result of that live performance is this CD. It was a truly memorable and exciting experience, and I hope you enjoy listening to different voices as much as I enjoyed composing the piece. – Debbie Wiseman
MIKLOS ROZSA Orchestral Works Volume 1
Three Hungarian Sketches, Hungarian Serenade, Overture to a Symphony Concert, Tripartita.
BBC Philharmonic Conducted by Rumon Gamba
Chandos CHAN 10488
Miklós Rózsa is one of the giants of the film world with scores for Hollywood films such as Ben Hur,Quo Vadis, and El Cid. Once settled in Hollywood, Rózsa was able to negotiate a beneficial contract which allowed him to spend the summer months at his Italian retreat writing his concert music, while during the winter months composing music for films in Hollywood. The conductor Rumon Gamba comments, ‘Having made many discs of film music by composers whose concert works are well known, such as Malcolm Arnold and Vaughan Williams, I thought it would be interesting to turn to a very well-known film music composer and profile his concert works, which have perhaps been overshadowed by his big screen successes’. The film music of Miklós Rózsa is extremely exciting, passionate and intoxicating, and deserves to be better known. Gamba conducts the BBC Philharmonic in four works, all influenced in some way by Rózsa’s Hungarian roots.
BEST OF LONDON
2-CD collection of music associated with London. Light music tracks include: Eric Coates London Suite (excerpts), London Calling, London Again Suite (excerpts); Haydn Wood London Cameos Suite, Horseguards Whitehall; Sidney Torch London Transport Suite; Robert Farnon Westminster Waltz; Philip Lane London Salute -etc.
Naxos 8572098-99
AARON COPLAND: Dance Symphony / Symphony No. 1 / Short Symphony
Bournemouth Symphony, Alsop
Naxos 8.559359
LEROY ANDERSON Orchestral Music Volume 5
Goldilocks; Suite of Carols (version for woodwinds)
BBC Concert Orchestra Conducted by Leonard Slatkin
Naxos 8559382 [52:14]
FREDDY GARDNER The Essential Collection
Avid AVC 947 2-CD set
"He embroiders his improvisations with lyrical phrases and ravishing glissandi"..... so wrote broadcaster and writer Hector Stewart way back in the fifties when men were actually called Hector! Seriously though, we at AVID just think he was a damn fine reedsman! Equally at home on clarinet as he was with the entire saxophone family, our latest Essential inductee is the superb, yet perhaps unheralded saxophonist Mr Freddy Gardner. Freddy was in huge demand as a session musician during his heyday in the thirties, he was indeed the man they all called for. Benny Carter used him to head up his reed session when he was in the UK recording for Vocalion. You can hear the results on a couple of tracks herein. As well as tracks with Benny Carter we also feature Freddy’s contributions alongside Ike Hatch and Valaida as well as six medleys recorded as Freddy Gardner & His Mess Mates. Also featured is work with The Royal Navy Mariners including three rare ENSA broadcast titles. 51 superbly re-mastered tracks in all reveal that Freddy could sure blow Sweet or Hot and we can witness his crowning glory as he takes it home with Peter Yorke & His Concert Orchestra featured on no less than eight magnificent tracks.
EDDIE BARCLAY Meet Mr. Barclay & Paris For Lovers
Vocalion CDNJT 5204
Eddie Barclay, Gallic orchestra leader and founder of Barclay records, is the subject of this Vocalion release, which compiles two of his mid-1950s light music albums. In "Meet Mr Barclay" the focus is, in the main, on music from the movies, and Mr Barclay runs his orchestra through impeccably played, spellbinding renditions of Hernando’s Hideaway (from the ‘The Pajama Game’), Merry-Go-Round (from ‘French Can-Can’), Rififi (from ‘Du Rififi Chez les Hommes’) and Le grisbi (from ‘Touchez pas au Grisbi’) among others. As you would expect, in "Paris for Lovers" the accent is on romantic French melodies, and maestro Barclay does not disappoint in his selection of tunes that include gorgeous arrangements of I Love Paris, Under the Bridges of Paris, Under Paris Skies, Paris Stay the Same, I’ll Be Yours (J’attendrai) and more.
Werner Müller & His Orchestra : Echoes of Italy & Great Strauss Waltzes
Vocalion CDLK 4373
German orchestral maestro Werner Mueller makes his ninth appearance on Vocalion with two further albums drawn from his extensive Teldec catalogue, both of which demonstrate that he was a master of light classical music repertoire in addition to the Latin and big band idioms for which he was best known. "Echoes of Italy" presents several timeless melodies from the land of song, including numbers that found international fame once English lyrics had been written for them: Quando, M’innamoro (A Man without Love), Ti Guarderò Nel Cuore (More), Alla Fine Della Strada (Love Me Tonight). Müller also turns his attention to works by composers such as Toselli (Serenade No.1, Op.6), Rossini (Finale from ‘William Tell’) and Tchaikovsky (Capriccio Italien, Op.45), and these and every selection in the album are treated to typically exquisite Müller orchestrations. "Great Strauss Waltzes" is, as the title suggests, dedicated to the undisputed master of the waltz, Johan Strauss. Classics including the Accelerations Waltz, Tales from the Vienna Woods, Roses from the South, Blue Danube Waltz and many more are given new leases of life under Müller’s expert direction.
Finally some more recent releases noted by Wilfred Askew.
BILL EVANS Piano and Orchestra Theme From "The VIPs"
Theme from "Mr Novak", Theme from "The Caretakers"; More, Walk on the wild side; The days of wine and roses; Theme from "The VIPs", Hollywood, Sweet September, On Green Dolphin Street, The Man with the golden arm, Laura, On Broadway
Verve 176135-7 [31:30]
THE VOICES OF WALTER SCHUMANN The Voices Of Christmas
Sleigh ride, God rest ye merry, gentlemen, The Christmas Song, Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer, What child is this?, Rise up shepherd and foller, The first snowfall, Fum, fum, fum, Christmas tree, Christmas in Killarney, The First Noel, Frosty the snowman, Lully,Lully,Lu … and 6 other titles
Collectors’ Choice CCM-867 [41:02]
SY OLIVER AND HIS ORCHESTRA / BILLY MAY AND HIS ORCHESTRA Arrangements Of Jimmie Lunceford In Hi-Fi [Spanish Import]
[Oliver] Dream of you, Ain’t she sweet, Organ grinder’s swing, My blue heaven, By the river Saint Marie, I’m walking through heaven with you [May] Uptown Blues, Annie Laurie, Charmaine, Coquette, Well all right then, Blues in the night [Oliver and May separately] For dancers only, Margie, Four or five times, ‘taint what you do, Cheatin’ on me, Rhythm is our business
Lone Hill Jazz LHJ 10336 [77:47]
DICK STABILE AND HIS ORCHESTRA Many Faces
Who’s sorry now, Cloudburst, Just you, just me, Tenderly, Many faces, I’ll see you in my dreams, The gypsy in my soul, Dream, Hong Kong Cha Cha, Come back to Sorrento, Don’t blame me, Pavanne, Poor butterfly, We’ll be together again, For you, Do I love you … and 8 other titles
Montpelier MONT CD 046 [62:22]
BUDDY COLE Hammond Organ/ Bösendorfer Piano with Orchestra conducted by Pete King Have Organ Will Swing / Plays Cole Porter
That old black magic, Memories of you, Between the devil and the deep blue sea, Early autumn, I hear music, They can’t take that away from me …and 6 other titles / So in love, What is this thing called love, I get a kick out of you, All through the night, Get out of town …and 7 other titles
Warner Bros albums from 1958.
Collectables COL-CD-7865 [71:26]
THE BILLY COTTON BAND SHOW Saturday Night Sing-A-Long
Stick it on the wall Mrs Riley, I’ve got a lovely bunch of coconuts, The yellow rose of Texas, Friends and neighbours, Poppa Piccolino, A-hunting we will go, I love the sunshine of your smile, London calls, Big head, Domani, If I were a blackbird, Play me hearts and flowers, The petite waltz, Rain, The Dam Busters … etc.
Double CD with the Ember LP of the same name plus 40 bonus tracks.
Acrobat FADCD 2017 [148:15]NINA ROTA "La Strada" and "Le Notti Di Cabiria" Film Sountracks
Cherry Red ACMEM 123 CD [74:40]ELMER BERNSTEIN "Sweet Smell Of Success" Film Sountrack
Cherry Red ACMEM 132 [70:15]HENRY MANCINI "A Touch Of Evil" Film Soundtrack
Cherry Red ACMEM 134 CD [50:57]
ERIC COATES CONDUCTS ERIC COATES For Your Delight For Your Delight, Calling All Workers, Wood Nymphs, Summer Days – Suite, By The Tamarisk, The Three Bears, By The Sleepy Lagoon, Cinderella, A Song By The Way, London – Suite, Saxo-Rhapsody, Footlights, Sound And Vision, London Again – Suite, Springtime – Suite, The Jester At The Wedding – 2 movements, Last Love, The Three Elizabeths – Suite, Four Centuries – Suite, The Dam Busters Eric Coates conducting various symphony and concert orchestras Sanctuary Living Era Classics, 2CD set, AJD2013 total timing 156:49 mins. In 1994 Conifer released an excellent 2CD collection of recordings of Eric Coates’ music, compiled by Hugh Palmer and digitally remastered by Ted Kendall. Two years later the same team produced a second 2CD set and, once again, Coates’ own recordings were augmented by versions conducted by leading musicians such as Clarence Raybould, Basil Cameron, Emanuel Starkey and Charles Williams. These two releases provided a wonderful selection that demonstrated the wide range of Eric Coates’ composing talent, and they deserved to remain in the catalogue for many years since they represented such an important part of Britain’s musical heritage. But shortly afterwards BMG bought Conifer Records, and virtually the entire catalogue was deleted with indecent haste. A few years later Naxos released several CDs of Coates’ music (possibly trying to fill the gap left by the Conifer deletions) but the sound quality on some of the tracks was barely acceptable. Happily the situation has now improved dramatically, thanks to this new 2CD collection from Living Era Classics. Although it is obviously impossible to match the wide scope of the earlier Conifers (this new release is two CDs, not four), this is a superb selection of many of Coates’ greatest compositions, and it is obviously a great bonus to have the composer’s own interpretations. No worries about indifferent sound quality this time … Alan Bunting has expertly treated each and every track with the gentle care and love they all deserve – not always easy when you consider that the earliest 78 dates from 1933 with the most recent in 1955, just two years before Coates died from a stroke on 21 December 1957. It is not possible to discuss all the titles in detail, but it should be mentioned that the recording of By The Sleepy Lagoon comes from a 12" Columbia 78 recorded on 4 March 1935 with a larger orchestra, rather than the usual 1940 version on the reverse side of Calling All Workers. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Eric Coates’ passing, and it is to be hoped that his importance will be recognised by the BBC and other broadcasting organisations. Whatever you do, don’t miss this new release. It should have pride of place in every light music admirer’s collection, and these days you can never be sure how long CDs will remain in the catalogue. Remember what happened to Conifer … buy this CD now! David Ades
"Don’t look back" WARREN VACHE and The Scottish Ensemble. It was written in the stars, My Mistress’ eyes, Spring, My love and I, Molly on the shore, April in my heart, Valse Prismatique, I fall in love too easily, Love is for the very young, On the street where you live, Don’t look back. 58:45. Arbors Records ARCD19318). Some while ago I read a news snippet in "Crescendo" written by Duncan Lamont saying that Warren had managed to coax Bill Finegan out of retirement to write some string charts for an album. Excited by the news I intended to write to Duncan for further details but dallied longer than intended! Discussing the project with fellow member Malcolm Fraser he hit me with the surprise news that he had the CD! On first playing I wished the dozen strings had been augmented to a lusher sound but after repeat listening I realised the orchestra used perfectly suited Warren’s intimate style of cornet playing. As listed above you can see Warren knows a good tune! Two by David Raksin, "Love is for the very young" arranged by Warren and "My love and I" originally commissioned to Robert Farnon but with his sad passing (see ‘Jumping Bean’ in this issue) handed to Alan Barnes who grasps the opportunity with both hands! Bill Finegan arranged "It was written in the stars", "April in my heart" and "Don’t look back". Bill had not put pen to chart for ten years but it certainly does not show, especially on Johnny Mandel’s eloquent composition "Don’t look back". Yet another bonus contained here, a lost chart by John Carisi "Spring" which was left off of Charlie Parker’s string backed outing. Warren’s creditably emotional interpretation of good ballads clearly show; he likes a strong melody. CDs of this calibre always welcome in my player! Paul Clatworthy
LIGHT MUSIC WHILE YOU WORK – Various artists. Guild GLCD 5128 full tracklisting in JIM170. Those who are aware of my interest in the radio programme Music While You Work will not be surprised that I’ve been rather looking forward to this the 28th recording in Guild’s splendid series. They will also expect me to listen to it with a critical ear. Fear not, apart from one or two reservations I think it is really very good. The radio programme Music While You Work came about when the BBC was asked to provide programmes of morale boosting tuneful music to Britain’s wartime workers. During the programme’s 27 year run and subsequent revivals, hundreds of dance bands, light orchestras and groups were heard. To supplement the broadcasts in the factories, Decca instituted its own Music While You Work series of records, and it is primarily from this series that the tracks on this CD have been drawn – with the emphasis on light orchestral music – in line with the general theme of these Guild recordings. There is the added bonus of a couple of tracks which were probably earmarked for the Decca series but never issued. Included in this compilation are the orchestras of Richard Crean, Reginald Pursglove, Harry Davidson, Philip Green, Ronnie Munro and Mantovani with the Harry Fryer Orchestra taking the lion’s share with no less than ten items. Whenever I have suggested a CD of Harry Fryer I have been told he is not sufficiently well-known. Well, it’s true that many will be unfamiliar with his name, and even I am too young to remember his broadcasts, but a study of wartime editions of Radio Times shows that he was a big name in radio right up until his untimely death at the age of 50, often broadcasting three times a week, so this CD is partly a tribute to him, particularly as its release date of November 2006 coincides almost to the day of the 60thanniversary of his death! Another radio stalwart of many years standing was Richard Crean whose orchestra’s final broadcast, conducted by Reginald Kilbey, was actually a few days after the maestro’s death in 1955. His four contributions to this disc include a short but delightful version of theHaunted Ballroom which serves as an antidote to the dreadful rendering of this piece by a contemporary orchestra a few years ago. As most items on this CD are played by orchestras of similar instrumentation, i.e. theatre orchestras, the illusion of an actual MWYW broadcast is created, topped and tailed with an exhilarating version of Calling All Workers. I have to say that I felt it a mistake to use the whole piece at the end of the recording. On radio this signature tune always commenced at the trio section (letter c on the music). Perhaps it was decided that as this version by the Tivoli Concert Hall Orchestra has never appeared on CD it should be reproduced in full, but for me it really jarred, spoiling the authenticity of the recording. Nevertheless I applaud the use of this record as opposed to the hackneyed Phil Green Victory Band version so often used whenever a MWYW compilation has been produced. During radio’s golden years the BBC attached great importance to programme building and so do I – even on a CD where technology enables you to build your own programme. On radio an orchestra leader who included two consecutive waltzes in a broadcast, apart from in a medley, could expect a reprimand from the BBC. Four items out of five in waltz time, such as occur towards the end of this CD, would have seen the orchestra taken off the air! Surely a couple of them could have been used to break up the block of five marches / paso dobles in the middle of this recording? Apart from these minor quibbles I think that this is an excellent CD. Once again, Alan Bunting has worked his magic and produced recordings which sound as if they were performed yesterday. David Ades has again produced comprehensive and informative notes and I appreciate his comment to the effect that my recent book on MWYW was helpful in their preparation. Having said that, I hope he won’t think me churlish in pointing out one or two small discrepancies. The first – probably a typographical error – states that Harry Davidson appeared on MWYW 109 times in the first year of the programme. It was actually the number of programmes which Harry played in the series from 1940-46. Also, following his retirement, the programme Those Were The Days was conducted by Sidney Davey for ten and a half years, not twelve. Finally, Reg Pursglove’s Albany Strings were previously known as the Muted Strings, not the Albany Players, which was a larger and much earlier orchestra. Overall this is a super CD which will appeal to all lovers of traditional light music. Some will say, why were Wynford Reynolds, David Java, Harold Collins and Reginald Burston’s Coliseum Orchestra not represented on this disc? They all recorded on the Decca MWYW label. Well, perhaps they have been earmarked for Volume Two. There has surely got to be one! Brian Reynolds
DIANA KRALL – From This Moment On. It Could Happen To You; Isn’t This A Lovely Day; How Insensitive Plus 8 Other Selections 51:36 mins. Verve B0007323-02. This CD is a most welcome return from the controversial album of songs co-written with her husband Elvis Costello. The mood is, if anything, deeper and richer. This is aided by steamy, hazy arrangements by John Clayton who uses clusters of sound with remarkable Gil Evans-like textures. The opening cut "It Could Happen To You" shows this sound perfectly with sustained brass chords throughout while "Come Dance With Me" is more appropriately Basie / Hefti-like with soft brass and sax with a solid swinging beat. We hear more from Krall as a pianist on this CD than previously on songs such as "Exactly Like You" with a marvellous solo by this singer matching the ebulliently rhythmic vocal line she establishes. And what about the title track "From This Moment On"? The almost passionate arrangement brings practically steals the show! This is a very special CD for it shows off to splendid effect the very best that Diana Krall is capable of providing! Richard Jessen
XAVIER CUGAT – Cugat’s Favourite Rhumbas. Say "si si" (Para vigo me voy) (Lubon; Lecuona); Begin the beguine (Porter); Green eyes (Aquellos ojos verdes); (Utrera; Menendez); Estrallita (My little star) (Ponce); Rumba rumba (Valencia; Parfumy); La golondrina (The swallow) (Serradell); Besamé mucho (Kiss me much) (Velazquez); La paloma (The dove) (Yradier); Cielito lindo (Blue skies); No can do (Tobias; Simon); Bambarito (Rosell); You forgotcha guitar (McCarthy; Monaco); Cugat’s nugats from "Luxury Liner" (Cugat; Angulo); The wedding samba (Ellstein; Small; Liebowitz); Cha-cha-cha (Rizo; Morgan); Zing-a zing-a zing boom (Black-Out-Ze Maria; Moore); Mambo no.8 (Prado); I am a bum (Castro); Night must fall (Shaw; Cugat); Cariberia (Seri); Si si si Senor (Angulo); Para que? (Garcia; Silva); Un poquito de tu amor (Gutierrez); You can in Yucatan (Capullito de alell); (Drake; Shirl; Hernandez); Rio la yagua (Miranda). Vocalion CDVS 1948. This is most certainly my kind of music and my period too but quite a lot of tracks, when reading the titles, do not mean anything to me and it is quite unusual not to see that old standard Brazil listed – perhaps it is not the right rhythm. Outstanding for me are tracks Rhumba Rhumba, Zing-a zing-a zing boom, andUn poquito de tu amor – all titles which I seem to recall from those 40s days of my youth. A lot of these numbers I seem to recall he played when he was fronting his orchestra when appearing in those wonderful MGM musicals. A pity that none of the vocals seem to have the wonderful Lina Romay doing her stuff – a very sexy person was she! I just wonder how long it will be before some more excellent titles in the Latin vein come out. Vocalion certainly seem to have the monopoly in this field these days. Thank you Vocalion for two good CDs for me to end 2006 on. Alec Hellyer
MANTOVANI – Mantovani Today & Musical Moments With Mantovani Midnight Cowboy, Up, up, and away, I’ll never fall in love again, Blowin’ in the wind, Deserted shore, Without love [There is nothing], Everybody’s talkin’, Lemon tree, Good morning starshine, Leaving on a jet plane, Wand’ring star, Love is all / And I love you so, Eye-level, Le Chanson de Maria, For all we know, Tie a yellow ribbon round the ole oak tree, It’s diff’rent now, Say, has anyone seen my sweet Gypsy Rose?, Our last affair, Elizabethan Serenade, Fool, Dear father [70:44] Vocalion CDLK 4315. Another attractive 2-on-1 from the two maestros of music and remastering. The first album saw the light of day in the US in 1970 [there was a UK release of the same name with a slightly different track selection]; the second, recorded in Paris, appeared in the UK four years later on a Decca SKL vinyl. This is the first CD incarnation for both albums. The then newly written Deserted shore, and Our last affair are both Mantovani compositions. Up, up, and away is given a very up-tempo treatment by Roland Shaw. Bacharach’s I’ll never fall oozes class. In his indispensable biography of Mantovani, Colin Mackenzie remarks how in some pieces on the ‘Today’ album the woodwind play a more important role than before. On the second album Monty’s old associate Ronald Binge’s Elizabethan Serenade really is a choice composition. It is good, too, to be reminded of Eye Level, the signature tune for the excellent Dutch-based detective series ‘Van Der Valk’, a version of which by the Simon Park Orchestra topped the British singles chart in 1973. But my favourite track is the arrangement given Neil Diamond’sDear father that closes the programme. If not among his absolute best – using mainly modern pop songs rather than from the classic songbooks precluded that – these albums are two more fine examples of a consummate musician’s legacy to the world of light music. Please keep them coming, Mr Dutton. [NB The CD’s digital information is slightly awry in that there are only 22 tracks shown instead of 23, but it may have been corrected by the time you read this]. Peter Burt
THE MAGNIFICENT MARINES – The Band of HM Royal Marines School of Music / Lt-Col. Vivian Dunn; Frederick Harvey (baritone). Finale from 'Carillon', The Preobrajensky March, Famous Songs of the British Isles, Shenandoah, Up from Somerset, Trade Winds, Glorious Devon, Fleet Air Arm March, Sarie Marais, Lilliburlero, Barcelona, La Ritirata Italiana – Drescher, Marche des Parachutistes Belges, Ponderoso. The Alfalfa Club, The United States Marine Corps Hymn, Theme from 'The Great War', Theme and March Glorious, March of the Victors, The Finest Hours, Here Comes the Band, No Hiding Place, 1812 Overture. Eastney Collection RM HSE CO14. This latest release from the Eastney Collection concludes the series of the many distinguished recordings which Vivian Dunn made with the Royal Marines Band for EMI. They have again been subject to digital remastering by Brian Culverhouse, former EMI record producer, who was responsible for supervising the original sessions. Despite the fact that this compilation embraces tracks ranging between 1954-68, all are in stereo with consistently high quality. An excellent selection of marches includes a resplendent Preobrajensky March adapted as the regimental slow march of the R.M. during the corps’ tercentenary year and which was originally the march of the Preobrajensky Guards, of which a great uncle of Mountbatten was one of the last colonels. Subsequently Mountbatten received the score from King Alfonso XIII of Spain in 1934. Pierre Leemans’ Marche des Parachutistes Belges is a gloriously ear-tickling patrol march and a great personal favourite, whilst the lively Fleet Air Arm Marchemanated not from a professional musician but from Freddie Stovin-Bradford who wrote the march in 1963 whilst chief of staff to Flag Officer Air at Lee-on-Solent. He subsequently sent a copy of the manuscript to Vivian Dunn with a request that it be scored for military band, which was duly done. This disc is particularly valuable in incorporating three more tracks which the well-regarded and much admired English baritone Frederick Harvey made with this band – he has already featured on several other earlier discs in this series. Here he contributes songs which were immensely popular in the first half of the latter century – Up From Somerset, Trade Wins (words by Peter Masefield) and who better qualified than Frederick Harvey, a Devon man born and bred in Plymouth, to intone Edward German’s stirring Glorious Devon. His crystal clear articulation is impressive and surely an object lesson for many a contemporary singer. Any other compelling reasons for acquiring this disc? Well... there is a rarely heard piece here by a certain Robert Farnon whose title and music is quite unfamiliar to me. Mention is made in the CD booklet that the Guv’nor was a long-standing friend of Vivian Dunn and when Farnon settled in Guernsey he was a frequent visitor to the R.M. School of Music at Deal. Here Comes the Band is described as being, appropriately enough, in cheerful light-hearted style, but I wonder whether a kindly member of our society can provide any further information on this particular score? One or two TV theme tunes included here are notably Wilfrid Joseph’s music for The Great War which chillingly and vividly conveys the utter desolation and bleakness of the Flanders battle fields, and on a contrasting lighter note Laurie Johnson’s dramatic score for No Hiding Place, which conveys visual images to those of us of a certain age – of black liveried police cars hurtling at speed, accompanied by screeching tyres from the portals of New Scotland Yard. The disc is brought to a satisfactorily resounding conclusion by the final section of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture in which the Royds join the Bournemouth S.O. under Constantin Silvestri in a performance recorded at the resort’s Winter Gardens in 1966. An excellent indispensable addition to the ever-growing Eastney collection, well up to the production standards of its predecessors and recommended with all possible enthusiasm. Roger Hyslop
EARLY RECORDED MOVIE MUSIC LIBRARIES For tracklisting please refer to page 76 of JIM 170 – December 2006. This is a special CD, exclusively for members of the Robert Farnon Society, which has been compiled by Graham Newton to accompany his series of articles in Journal Into Melody. There are so many fascinating areas of recorded music during the 20th century, but surely this CD is truly unique. In every respect it is an historical document, and but for the dedicated research and enthusiasm of Graham Newton (one of the world’s leading sound restorers) it is likely that much of this music would have been lost to future generations. It is certainly a labour of love, and something which Graham felt needed to be done to illustrate the wealth of superb music that was written to accompany the early motion pictures. The sound quality of some of the cues is absolutely outstanding considering when the original recordings were made. As a good example compare The Conspirators on track 8 (from "Marked Money") with the same cue from the Victor Pict-Ur library found on track 37. These recordings were made by expert musicians, who were clearly incredibly good at their craft, in one take with no editing possible! Some tracks last only a few seconds, but others are full length. Clearly this music was not written in the expectation that people would listen to it in their homes, so it may not be something you will place regularly in your CD player. But, on the other hand, you are unlikely to find anything like this elsewhere, and anyone with an interest in the history of film music should have this in their collection. David Ades For details of how to order, please see page 37 of this issue.
SHERRIE MARICLE and the DIVA JAZZ ORCHESTRA present TNT: A Tommy Newsom Tribute. Titter Pipes; Pensativa; Three Shades Of Blue; Moonlight Plus 6 More Selections (1:04:13) . Lightyear 54698-2. There’s no more better tribute to one of the mainstays of The Tonight Show Orchestra than this CD release. Sherrie Maricle is the heartbeat of this CD and is one of the few drummers who truly understands the art of both driving a band without overwhelming everyone. Of all of the selections, "Titter Pipes" is the oldest number, dating from the Newsom’s Skitch Henderson days with the Tonight Show of the 1960s. "Pensativa" and "Three Shades Of Blue" represent the flowing eloquence of Newsom’s style with great solos Karolina Strassmeyer on flute on the former and playing soprano sax in a highly individual lyrical manner on the latter. Newsom’s wit comes through on the Nat King Cole medley with a vocal trio drawn from the orchestra singing "Straighten Up And Fly Right" while the entire ensemble makes "Nature Boy" sound more interesting than most would think. The Zoot Sims - Gerry Mulligan composition"Red Door" end everything on a solidly flowing groove with swinging solos by Anat Cohen on tenor sax and Barbara Laronga on trumpet. If ever there is both an enlivening and instructive CD, this is the one to own and cherish for years ahead. Bravos to both Sherrie Maricle and her superb band and for the arranger/composer Tommy Newsom. Richard Jessen
THE MUSIC OF THE ROYAL ENGINEERS – The Band of the Corps of Royal Engineers / Maj. E.H. Keeley. Sesqui-Centennial Celebration March; Imperial March / Mazurka Militaire (Flux); Public Duties (Pryce); On the Countermarch (Keeley); Royal Standard (Brigham); The Acrobat (Greenwood); Amazing Grace (Newton)... Specialist Recording Company SRC136. This disc represents some fine music associated with the Corps of Royal Engineers – popularly known as the Sappers, which may be largely unfamiliar to the general listener. It is nonetheless well worth his time and pocket to purchase this disc when he will be well-rewarded with an unhackneyed and refreshing collection of military music. The disc is timely as it celebrates 150 years of Royal Engineers music, the original band having been formed in 1856, and because it was one of Major Keeley’s last recordings with the band before he retired in August 2006. He has however not been lost to world of military music since he has subsequently taken up the post as D.O.M. of the Honourable Artillery Company (T.A.) band. Following the R.E. Corps Fanfare the first track is the R.E.’s Sesqui-Centennial Celebration March – rather unwieldy title this – composed by Peter Graham, Professor of Composition at Salford University, and proving convincingly that a modern march can be both contemporary and tuneful. Neville Flux became Bandmaster Royal Engineers in January 1905 on the personal recommendation of Sir Alexander McKenzie, Principal of the Royal Academy of Music, and since he was a civilian, caused a lot of adverse comments from both the military and musical press of the day. Two of his pieces are featured here and are testimony to the fact that he was a highly accomplished composer – an imposing Imperial March and a catchy Mazurka Militaire. Quite properly there are also two of Maj. Keeley’s own compositions – On The Countermarch and Spongs Leap, a distinctly unusual title inspired by a McSpong who lost control of his horse, careered through the arch to Brompton Barracks and horse and rider cleared a 6-foot iron fence and disappeared down a drop of 42 feet! Amazingly neither were seriously hurt and were able to continue on their way. There is even a plaque commemorating this bizarre incident at the R.E. HQ Officers’ Mess! One of the highlights on this CD is an outstanding slow march, Royal Standard, by Earl Brigham, a pseudonym of Maj. A.L.F. Young, D.O.M. of the band 1944-58. The piece has been used by the band as its unofficial slow march and for a while was also used as the Kneller Hall slow march, and deservedly so. John A. Greenwood’sThe Acrobat is one of those infernally irritating pieces you seem to have known forever but never discovered the title. The booklet notes remind us that it was Percy Thrower’s theme tune in his BBC radio gardening series back in the 1960s and it is delivered here flawlessly played on the trombone by L.Cpl. M.P. Lawday. The familiar strains of Amazing Grace come complete with piper in the person of staff Sgt. Kenny Kerr, a past Pipe Major of the Royal Highland Fusiliers. The vivid recording was made in an interesting and unusual location, the Royal Dockyard Church, Chatham. The band are on top form throughout, and the CD comes with usual high standard of artwork and excellent notes – so this production is something of which the recording company and the band can feel justly proud. A noteworthy and fascinating release; one not to be missed. Roger Hyslop
A SONG FOR CHRISTMAS Deck the Halls with Boughs of Holly, Once in Royal David’s City, Jingle Bells, etc. 12 tracks Mantovani and his Orchestra 40:45 mins Vocalion CDLF 8122. Promised at our November 2004 meeting, this was announced too late for mention in the last JIM which was a pity because good sales might encourage Mike Dutton to release the earlier and even better million-plus selling ‘An Album of Christmas Music’. Monty is accompanied by the Mike Sammes Chorus & Singers on the first two tracks listed above as well as on The Holly and the Ivy, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear, The Twelve Days of Christmas, Mary’s Boy Child and I Saw Three Ships. All the tracks are a delight, especially so Monty’s own trademarked Christmas Bells and Charles Chaplin’s Toy Waltz, prompting thoughts again of what an underrated tunesmith he was. The standout track for me is Cecil Milner’s 4.42 minute arrangement of the Handelian O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings from ‘Messiah’. The unacknowledged organist for the recording, made in Holborn’s Kingsway Hall in August 1963, was Harold Smart. If the selection appeals, buy now for around a fiver – it will soon be Christmas! Peter Burt
STANLEY BLACK Conducting the London Festival Orchestra Film Spectacular Vol. 5Casablanca, A Man and a Woman, Intermezzo, Blood and Sand, La Strada, Love Story, Gone With The Wind Film Spectacular Vol. 6 Spitfire Prelude and Fugue, Bridge on the River Kwai, The Guns of Navarone, Victopry at Sea, 633 Squadron, The Longest Day, Western Approached (Seascape), The Great Escape, Mrs Miniver Suite. Vocalion CDLK 4328. These two LPs (now occupying two CDs for the price of one from Vocalion) were, in my humble opinion, highlights in Stanley Black’s career as a conductor (and on some tracks arranger) and I am delighted to see that they are available once more. Decca sound engineers were world leaders in 1975 (when both LPs were recorded) and it certainly shows. Superb music – and spectacular sound! David Ades
MULLIGAN MEETS MONK. ‘Round Midnight; Rhythm-a-ning; Sweet And Lovely; Decidedly Plus 4 More Selections (59:31). Riverside OJCCD-301-2. On paper, this looks like a definite clash of ideas. Yet it’s just the opposite. Gerry Mulligan, baritone sax virtuoso, was actually good friends with pianist / composer / arranger Thelonious Monk which resulted in this remarkably fine album. "‘Round Midnight" is appropriately stark whereas Rhythm-a-ning" is a delightfully crazy romp with a catchy theme as is Mulligan’s own "Decidedly." "Sweet And Lovely" is about as rough as this duo gets with Monk’s pungent chords and runs on the keyboard contrasting with Mulligan’s appealing lyricism. "Straight, No Chaser" refers not only to a drink but also to this relaxed swinger with plenty of room given to not only Mulligan but bassist Wilbur Ware. Everything winds up in everybody’s pocket with "I Mean You" by Monk, a swinging number showing off Monk’s striding pianistic skills while both Thelonious and Gerry accompany Wilbur Ware. Shadow Wilson provides the rock solid rhythm pattern for this session which was originally to be recorded in stereo with an expanding group of musicians. Such isn’t the case as all four men were playing so well that it was decided to keep things just the way they turned out. For 1957, the stereo effect by Riverside engineers is flawless with a good deal of presence and air surrounding the musicians. A truly remarkable recording for all music enthusiasts. Richard Jessen
MANTOVANI and his Orchestra play Strauss Waltzes Blue Danube, Roses From The South, Vienna Blood, Voices Of Spring, Artist’s Life, Tales From The Vienna Woods, Emperor Waltz, Morning Papers, Accelerations, You And You, Wine, Women And Song, Village Swallows, Gypsy Love Waltz, Tell Me You Love Me, Le Chaland Qui Passe [46:25] Goldies GLD 63237. Of Portuguese provenance and not the easiest to find [I obtained my copy online for a few pence under £4.50], this CD consists of ten tracks taken from one of Monty’s earliest and most popular LPs, recorded and issued in 1952, reckoned by some Mantovanians to be better than the subsequent stereo re-make. Although probably not for the purist, these wonderful flowing melodies are given the full Milner/ Mantovani treatment. The second "Bonus Track" is of great historic interest: Tell Me You Love Me being an adaptation of Puccini’s On With The Motley and the very first example of Ronald Binge’s "New Sound" for Monty from 1951 making its first album appearance. Despite rather veiled sonics this is definitely worth seeking out. Peter Burt Editor: to avoid correspondence, may I mention that "Tell Me You Love Me" has already appeared on a Guild CD – Mantovani By Special Request Vol. 2 GLCD 5113.
The Symphony Sessions – THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER. City of Prague Symphony Orchestra / Cory Allen. Route 66, Candy, Embraceable You, That’s the Way it Goes, A Nightingale Sang, Because you are all heart, To You, Vibrate, Clouds, The Quietude, The Offbeat of Avenues, Birdland. (56:49). Rhino 8122-74740-2), available Compact Disc Club. Six of the tracks are arranged by Cory Allen and he provides backgrounds of fine stimulation and subtlety – Embraceable You in particular, vocals arranged by Gene Puerling. Route 66 and Candy are arranged by Billy Byers, the first title with echoes of Nelson Riddle, and Vibrate is arranged by Gil Goldstein. This is group vocalising at its best! Vocals also arranged by Dick Reynolds, Al Capps and group members. Paul Clatworthy
VIKKI CARR: The Ultimate Collection. It Must Be Him (Sung In English, Spanish and Italian) Plus 78 tracks on 3 CDs. EMI Gold 0946 3 68615 2 4. The title explains itself more than adequately. What we get are 3 CDs full of songs exploring every facet by the well loved and honored lady of song, Miss Vikki Carr. And what a collection! Most of these song titles have not been available for more than 40 years which is a shame for they explore every style and genre of song this lady can sing with an overwhelmingly magnetic power. Her big international hit "It Must Be Him" is the thread on all 3 CDs and she sings it with conviction in three different languages (English, Spanish and Italian). The styles covered include the great American Songbook (Where Are You), Broadway (The Surrey With The Fringe On The Top), big band swing (Time After Time), jazz (Moanin’), Latin (Mas Que Nada), current pop standards (Can’t Take My Eyes Off You) and country (Make It Rain). This is not your usual Vikki Carr compilation. Instead, what you get is a collection of songs new and fresh interpreted with vibrancy by one of the truly great artists who is still very much around and performing at the same level of these recordings. No greater tribute need be added except that this record set is consistently beating out all others. The program notes are written with mastery by Randy Cordova and Vito Cifaldi with plenty of thank yous and a special note written by Vikki Carr. And as she so truthfully says, "the best is yet to come." Let’s hope there is a fresh release by EMI of this great artist!Richard Jessen
EDMUNDO ROS and his Orchestra – New Sounds on Broadway / Broadway Sing Along. New Sounds On Broadway (Decca LP PS 352 (1963) Stereo) The Cutty Wren from the show "Chips With Everything" (Farrell); High Is Better Than Low "Jennie" (Dietz; Schwartz); Gonna Be Another Hot Day "110 In The Shade" (Schmidt; Jones); Waitin’ For The Evening Train "Jennie" (Dietz; Schwartz); My Wish "Here’s Love" (Willson); Here And Now "The Girl Who Came To Supper" (Coward); That Man Over There "Here’s Love" (Willson); I’ll Remember Her "The Girl Who Came To Supper" (Coward); Is It Really Me "110 In The Shade" (Schmidt; Jones); London (Is A Little Bit Of All Right) "The Girl Who Came To Supper" (Coward); You Don’t Know "Here’s Love" (Willson); Where You Are "Jennie" (Dietz; Schwartz). Broadway Sing-Along (Decca LP SKL 4123 (1961) Stereo). (There’s No Business Like) Show Business from the show "Annie Get Your Gun" (Berlin); People Will Say We Are In Love "Oklahoma" (Rodgers; Hammerstein); Get Me To The Church On Time "My Fair Lady" (Loewe; Lerner); There Is Nothing Like A Dame "South Pacific" (Rodgers; Hammerstein); I Love Paris "Can Can" (Porter); Hey There "The Pajama Game" (Adler; Ross) Heart "Damn Yankees" (Adler; Ross); I Could Have Danced All Night "My Fair Lady" (Loewe; Lerner); They Say It’s Wonderful "Annie Get Your Gun" (Berlin); On The Street Where You Live "My Fair Lady" (Loewe; Lerner); Standing On The Corner "The Most Happy Fella" (Loesser) Almost Like Being In Love "Brigadoon" (Loewe; Lerner).CDLK 4330. What a terrific collection this is, especially New Sounds On Broadway. And it is nice to get 12 tracks of rarely if ever played numbers - and I for one would not expect many people to know many of them. For myself, I am lucky in that I have original cast recordings of them all, and just to see the titles like High Is Better Than Low, Waitin’ For The Evening Train and Where You Are fromJennie brings to mind Mary Martin in the show. Then there are numbers from 110 In The Shade,Here’s Love and The Girl Who Came To Supper - and in fact the only number on this collection I had not heard before is the first track The Cutty Wren from the show "Chips With Everything"; perhaps it is because I did not see the play or the film. When it comes to Broadway Singalong, I thought when I saw the list of numbers, oh no not again, but then get them dressed up as merengue and cha-cha-chas you can’t go wrong – they come out very well with this treatment. What a shame that the dances on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing don’t dance to these rhythms as the rhythms they dance to are unrecognisable. As usual the Ros rhythms are superb and I am glad to have this album at last. A must for all Ros fans. 24 tracks in all. Alec Hellyer
THE WORLD’S GREAT MARCHES – The Band of HM Royal Marines / Lt-Col. Vivian Dunn.Grand March from 'Tannhauser', Soldiers Chorus from 'Faust', Entrance and March of the Peers from 'Iolanthe', March Militaire from 'Suite Algerienne', All Marcia from 'Karelia Suite', The British Grenadiers, The Dashing White Serjeant, A Southerly Wind and a Cloudy Sky, Braganza, Espana, Le Pere de la Victoire, Belphegor, Under the Banner of Victory, Old Comrades, The Gladiators' Farewell, Under The Double Eagle, The Champion, National Emblem, On The Square, Blue Devils, Namur, Army and Marine, Glorious Victory, March from 'Little Suite' (Arnold). Eastney Collection RM HSE CO13. Eastney continue their trawl through the rich legacy of recordings which Sir Vivian Dunn and the Royal Marines Band made for EMI, concentrating on this new release on the years 1960-67. Like others in this series, Brian Culverhouse, who supervised the original recordings made at Abbey Road, has been responsible for the digital remastering of these valuable tapes. The first tracks are taken from the concert hall and opera house, thus the Grand March from Tannhauser, the Soldier’s Chorus from Faust and the Alla Marcia from Karelia. Particularly valuable, however, is the inclusion of Saint-Saens’ splendid march from his Suite Algerienne, of which there are not exactly a plethora of alternative recordings, and fascinating to listen to Chabrier’s Espana, cleverly transformed into an effective quick march. The remainder of the disc is a compilation of familiar parade marches with the exception of the concluding item, the march from Malcolm Arnold’s Little Suite. Despite the familiarity of such pieces as Old Comrades, Under The Double Eagle, National Emblem and On The Square, you will never hear them better played than here; they positively sparkle under the inspired baton of Sir Vivian. Look out especially for Charles Williams’ Blue Devils, composed early in his career and a great favourite with military bands. The Blue Devils of the title was the nickname given to a T.A. unit called the Kensington Rifles that had served in South Africa during the Boer War. Eastney’s claim that this disc features really stunning foot-tapping stuff is certainly borne out and if you want only one representative military band CD on your shelves – shame on you! – this quality production could be it. As with all this series of re-releases; strongly recommended. Roger Hyslop
PRODUCED BY GEORGE MARTIN Highlights from 50 years in recording including George Martin and his Orchestra – Theme One, The Pepperland Suite, Friends and Lovers; Ron Goodwin – Elizabethan Serenade; Tommy Reilly – Melody on the Move; plus various pop stars and comedy records EMI 375 4862. Five years ago EMI issued a 6CD box set of recordings produced by George Martin, from which the tracks on this CD have been extracted. As one would expect, the Beatles are included, together with Cilla Black, Gerry and the Pacemakers and Billy J. Kramer. A bit more up-market are Shirley Bassey and Matt Monro, and to provide variety we have Peter Sellers, Spike Milligan and Flanders & Swann. It is particularly nice to have Tommy Reilly’s 1952 recording of Clive Richardson’s Melody on the Move which, according to the booklet note, showed George Martin’s "position at the front of new recording technology with the first use of tape echo". Tommy’s widow Ena has told us that Tommy returned home from this particular Abbey Road session on the back of George Martin’s motorcycle! Full marks for the CD booklet – and the CD label which reproduces a familiar Parlophone 45. Even without his work as the Beatles’ recording manager, Sir George Martin has secured his place of honour in the British recording industry, and he fully deserved to be inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame on 14 November last year. David Ades
FRANK CHACKSFIELD AND HIS ORCHESTRA "KING OF KINGS" : King of Kings, Song of Delilah, The Robe, Quo Vadis, The Green Leaves of Summer (from 'The Alamo'), Exodus, Parade of the Charioteers and Love Theme from 'Ben Hur', The High and the Mighty,The Prodigal, The Sundowners. FILM FESTIVAL : The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, Elvira Madigan, Doctor Zhivago, The Mercenaries, A Countess from Hong Kong, Zorba's Dance, Alfie, The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, Irina (from 'Shalako'), James Bond Theme, Rose of Saigon (from 'Tell Me Lies'), A Man and a Woman. Vocalion CDLK 4322 71:45 mins. For some years now the Vocalion label has been responsible for the very commendable reissue of several Frank Chacksfield albums from the 1950s and 1960s, and this particular disc, released in 2005 but not previously reviewed in this magazine, should also command your attention, as it encompasses this orchestra's excellent interpretations of selected film themes from the era in question. Included are several items not available elsewhere, thus adding to the attractions of this mid-price reissue. Of the LPs under consideration, the first to be issued originally was 'King of Kings', and this is by far the rarer - it appeared originally, in mono only, on the Ace of Clubs Label in 1962, with only ten tracks. Here we have an expanded version in stereo, available for the first time in Britain. As the title track suggests, we have Frank Chacksfield's lavish and tasteful recordings of music which dates from a time when 'road show' spectaculars were designed to lure people away from the ever-encroaching challenge of TV in the home. Many will be familiar with the two selections on offer from 'Ben Hur', of course, but the rest of the LP included several rarities such as 'The Prodigal' and 'Francis of Assisi', the latter being a particularly beautiful piece. Even the extract from 'Quo Vadis' contains music not normally found on any other soundtrack album for this film. Amongst the other highlights are a stirring rendition of Ernest Gold's magnificent theme from 'Exodus' (so much a part of the film music 'scene' in the early 1960s) and a beautiful realisation of Alfred Newman's theme from 'The Robe'. The sound has come up very well indeed, and Mike Dutton's usual wizardry has ensured that the best possible stereo spectrum has been derived from the original tapes, with particularly enticing string tone, as befits much of the scoring for these pieces. The second LP here reissued (actually placed first on the CD) dates from 1968, and the difference in mood is immediately apparent - epic lushness has been replaced by shorter, more varied melodies reflecting the change in cinematic tastes of this period. Frank Chacksfield's ability to alter his interpretations to 'suit the occasion' is immediately obvious, and we have an extremely colourful selection of items in arrangements by Roland Shaw. Robert Farnon enthusiasts will be delighted to have his 'Irina' (from 'Shalako') included - aptly described by Nicholas Briggs in his liner notes as 'a slow, swaying theme of deceptive simplicity'. Two other rarities are the themes from 'The Mercenaries' - a highly rhythmic yet memorable track - and the alluring 'Rose of Saigon' from the somewhat obscure feature 'Tell Me Lies'. Even the James Bond theme here sounds freshly minted, and the familiar main theme from 'Doctor Zhivago' is given a very effective 'piano concerto' treatment. The original LP was in the Decca Phase 4 format, and again the remastering has resulted in sound which is both clear yet comfortably full, with a wide stereo 'spread'. It is good to see that much time and effort has gone into providing extremely informative notes, as the original LPs were notably deficient in this regard; both the films and their music are placed in the correct historical context. This is therefore a significant release, which should be high on your list of priorities. Lawrence Preston
"LONDON TOWN" Film soundtrack: Overture, You Can’t Keep a Good Dreamer Down, Daffodil Hill – ballet music. My Heart Goes Crazy, If Spring Were Only Here to Stay, So Would I, The ‘Ampstead Way, Sid Field Plays Golf featuring Sid Field, Beryl Davis, Ann Sullivan, Scotty McHarg with Salvador Camarata and the London Town Orchestra plus 13 ‘bonus tracks’ featuring the film’s stars plus the Film Songs Selection by Peter Yorke and his Concert Orchestra on Columbia.SEPIA 1076, 79:26 mins. For many years I had noticed the 78s from "London Town" in the Decca catalogue but none of them ever seemed to come my way. So I was pleased to discover this recent release from Sepia Records, a small British independent producer that has built up an impressive catalogue since it was launched in 2002. They believe in giving full value for money, because the remaining time available is fully utilised with 78s from the same period by some of the stars who appeared in the film. Foremost among these (from a light music viewpoint) is the fine Peter Yorke non-vocal selection. Although J. Arthur Rank is reported to have spent £1 million on the film in 1946 (compared with around £50,000 for "Spring in Park Lane" which was a massive hit) it was a financial disaster, and is remembered today mainly because both public and critics panned it. It should have succeeded: it was in glorious Technicolour, and Rank hired top American talents Camarata (music director), Wesley Ruggles (director) and Jimmy Van Heusen and Johnny Burke (music and lyrics). Sadly Van Heusen and Burke failed to come up with a hit song – only So Would I being vaguely memorable. The ballet sequence Daffodil Hill composed by Camarata is similarly disappointing; a certain Robert Farnon would have been a much better choice! And as for Sid Field’s golfing sketch … words almost fail me. Over the years we have been told that Field was greatly admired within the profession, but maybe the big screen couldn’t capture the magic of his stage act. I’m pleased that Sepia has made this available, and the extra tracks are certainly entertaining (for example there is Beryl Davis with Stephane Grappelly and George Shearing in 1944). The booklet is excellent for a medium priced release, but it would have been nice to have included the original catalogue numbers of the records. David Ades
GORDON JENKINS – A Musical Prodigy Manhattan Tower, You Have Taken My Heart, Blue Prelude, When A Woman Loves A Man, With You So Far Away, Homesick That’s All, P.S. I Love You, Blue Evening, Goodbye, Alone Again, Marietta’s Waltz, The Lady And The Cellist, Mood At Midnight, California – a Musical Narrative, Maybe You’ll Be There, I Don’t See Me In Your Eyes Any More, Again, Don’t Cry Joe, My Foolish Heart, Bewitched, Seven Dreams – a Musical Fantasy Gordon Jenkins and his Orchestra plus soloists Jasmine JASCD 660, 2-CD set, 138:55 mins. In Britain many of us are probably unaware that Gordon Jenkins made a lot of 78rpm recordings featuring singers, because his name in later years was mainly associated with his orchestral albums plus, of course, his superb arrangements for the likes of Nat ‘King’ Cole and Frank Sinatra. The big exception is his ‘Musical Narrative’ Manhattan Tower which launches this collection. It was warmly received in the USA, where it was recorded more than once, and resulted in another similar tribute a few years later in praise of California. The other fascinating work in this collection is Seven Dreams which I have to confess is new to me. It is similar in style to Manhattan Tower and California but I do wonder how often people would wish to hear it since the narrative is something you’ll either love or hate. If you want an interesting collection of Gordon’s popular recordings from the 1940s and 1950s then don’t hesitate to add this to your collection, but if you prefer his purely orchestral offerings you’ll have to look at what is currently on offer in the Guild Light Music series. David Ades
FRANK SINATRA Romance – Songs from the Heart’ I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Time After Time, Day By Day, All The Way, Too Marvellous For Words, My Funny Valentine, Love Is Here To Stay, I’ve Got A Crush On You, Cheek To Cheek, Try A Little Tenderness, I Wish I Were In Love Again, Angel Eyes, Nice ‘N’ Easy (previously unreleased version), If You Are But A Dream (CD debut)etc 21 tracks EMI 363 3772. Released in February in time for Valentine’s Day, this collection is taken from Frank’s time at Capitol (1953-1960). Sinatra fans will already have most of these on various CDs or LPs, but EMI state that the tracks have all been remastered from the original tapes so you may find that the sound quality is better than your existing copies. As we went to press we had only received a promotional CD and list of titles, so we cannot comment on the booklet. David Ades
MIKLOS ROZSA : Selections from QUO VADIS and BEN HUR. Quo Vadis: Prelude, Marcus and Lygia, Fertility Hymn, The Burning of Rome, Petronius' Banquet, Ave Caesar, Chariot Race, Assyrian Dance,, Aftermath/Hail Galba, Finale, Epilogue. Ben Hur : Fanfare, Friendship, The Burning Desert, Arrius' Party, Rowing of the Galley Slaves, Parade of the Charioteers, The Mother's Love, Return to Judea, Ring for Freedom, Lepers' Search, Procession to Calvary, Miracle and Finale. Royal Philharmonic / National Philharmonic Orchestras and Chorus, conducted by Miklos Rozsa.Recording dates : 1977 / 1978. Vocalion CDLK 4332 (Two-disc set). During the late 1970s, the Decca Record Company invited Miklos Rozsa to London to record selections from two of his finest scores, using the cream of the capital's best musicians. The two resulting LPs originally appeared on Decca's Phase 4 label, but disappeared quite quickly when Decca was subsumed into the Universal group. Both titles did appear, apparently, in the very early days of CD, but were again quickly deleted and soon commanded the inevitable (and regrettable) inflated prices for interested collectors. This Vocalion reissue, therefore, represents quite outstanding value for money and should be eagerly snapped up by all those who appreciate some of the finest film music ever written in Hollywood's 'Golden Age'. The two LPs here reissued far surpassed in terms of sound quality and orchestral playing all previous selections of this material, and did much to cement the renewal of interest in classic film scores which had been growing throughout the 1970s, when several record companies spared no expense in releasing newly-recorded selections of vintage material which one could only vaguely appreciate when viewing the films in question. It is difficult to decide which is the finer of the two scores. 'Ben Hur' has always been regarded as Rozsa's 'magnum opus' - the composer, fully conscious of the fact that the future of MGM rested on this epic, certainly regarded this score as the apex of his career, and several of the themes (particularly the Parade of the Charioteers) became very well-known in the late 50s/early 60s. The score for 'Quo Vadis' was much less familiar, partly because much of the music was buried under the dialogue in the film, which certainly disappointed the composer at the time. The CD in question here revealed for the first time the extremely varied nature of Rozsa's score : not for him the writing of two or three main themes with endless reprises ( a fault of many modern scores) - the selection from 'Quo Vadis' on this CD is, if anything, more varied musically than its companion, but it was always difficult to choose ideal extracts from such an interwoven score as Ben Hur to make an ideally balanced LP. Rozsa's own selection for Decca was about the best that could be achieved for this purpose. Mike Dutton has worked his usual magic in re-mastering the two LPs. The sound quality on both discs was, and remains, extremely good, with none of the excesses of balance which sometimes marred earlier 'Phase 4' issues. We have here two of the best examples of orchestral sound in the late analogue era - resplendent brass, rich string tone and a wide stereo spread. Probably 'Quo Vadis' has the slightly finer quality in terms of clarity and presence. My own LP of the 'Ben Hur' selection was cut at such a high level that there was a tendency to overload, but this has been rectified for this CD reissue. The two-disc set is released at the cost of a single mid-price CD. As if all this were not enough, we also have five pages of exemplary notes by Alan Hamer of the Miklos Rozsa Society. It is almost certain that these two LPs will not be re-released again in such a convenient form, and Vocalion is to be congratulated for its enterprise in offering such high-quality material for such a reasonable outlay. Nicholas Briggs
ANTHONY COLLINS - Orchestral works. Festival Royal – Overture, Vanity Fair, The Song of Erin, Victoria the Great – suite, The Saga of Odette - Valse Lente, The Lady with a Lamp - Prelude & Valse Variation, Eire – suite, Santa Cecilia, Louis XV Silhouettes, Symphony for Strings. BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by John Wilson. Dutton 'Epoch' CDLX 7162. 73:52 mins. For most readers, the name of Anthony Collins (1893 - 1963) will be synonymous with either his much-praised set of the Sibelius symphonies recorded for Decca in the early 1950s (recently reissued on the Beulah label, incidentally) or else his own best-remembered composition 'Vanity Fair', which has indeed been recorded several times in the past. That 'bonne bouche' is, of course, included on this new CD under review, but a glance at the remaining titles will show that there was very much more to the man than this short calling-card. As the excellent notes by Lewis Foreman make clear, Anthony Collins pursued an extremely varied career within both the UK and the USA, which allowed him to make full use of his manifold talents as composer as well as conductor. A great deal of time and effort has gone into producing this most enterprising CD, as much of the music was difficult to source - indeed, were it not for the tenacity of all concerned, it is doubtful if several of the pieces on the disc would have surfaced at all, let alone have been recorded. Specifically, Collins was able to fuse a generous melodic gift with great clarity of orchestration, and the disc in question portrays an excellently-balanced programme in which the level of inspiration remains consistently high. The opening 'Festival Royal' overture has a magnificent central theme for strings (almost a cross between Elgar and Walton) framed by passages of brassy splendour, into which Collins subtly interweaves references to 'God Save the Queen' and the Westminster chimes - a marvellous start to the disc. My own favourite piece, however, is the short 'Song of Erin', which employs a haunting, wistful melody initially given to cor anglais and harp. The composer was also responsible for the scores of several well-known films of the period, the best remembered of which is probably the waltz from 'The Saga of Odette'. In all these pieces one notes again the subtle variety of mood and texture, underpinned by sharply memorable themes. Moving to the suite 'Eire', this is one instance where Collins does use existing melodies but is able to imprint his own characteristic arrangements on the material, resulting in another delightful short work. I also particularly enjoyed the 'Louis XV Silhouettes', which comprise a series of pastiche dance numbers - light music at its very best. I was rather reminded of the composer Gretry, whose often obscure pieces Sir Thomas Beecham used to dig out (and sometimes record) on his periodic visits to France later in his career - he would surely have approved of Anthony Collins's short work, which was published in 1939. The final item on the disc, 'Symphony for Strings', instantly belies its rather severe title by offering three short movements of immediate melodic appeal, of which the highlight for me was the wistful central 'adagio'. The recording quality, as one would expect from this source, is in the finest traditions of the house : it has a very wide dynamic range, great clarity of detail and broad stereo information, all set within a sympathetic acoustic - just right for appreciating the composer's flair for a colourful orchestral patina. In his notes, Lewis Foreman reveals that many of Collins's works are either missing or definitely lost, which is a pity, as the quality of what is on offer here would certainly justify a second CD. In the meantime, the combination of unhackneyed yet memorable material, excellent performances and recording quality, together with superb liner notes, leads me to conclude that this was one of the most significant new releases of 2006, which should be investigated urgently by all those who are looking for something quite special. Nicholas Briggs
... And with thanks to Wilfred Askew for news of the following releases
MIKLOS ROZSA – Three Choral Suites. Cincinnati Pops Orchestra / Kunzel; Morman Tabernacle Choir. Ben-Hur; Quo Vadis; King of Kings. Telarc CD-80631
NELSON RIDDLE and his Orchestra – Sing a Song with Riddle (1959) / Hey Diddle Diddle (1959, released 2005-6). Little White Lies Darn That Dream Near You; Day In-Day Out; The More I See You; My Baby Just Cares For Me; Everywhere You Go; I Had The Craziest Dream; Fools Rush In; You Make Me Feel So Young; It’s A Sin To Tell A Lie; You’re Driving Me Crazy! (What Did I Do?); The Farmer In The Dell; Little Jack Horner; Oh Dear What Can The Matter Be; Jack And Jill; Little Bo Peep; London Bridge; Tom, Tom, The Piper’s Son; Polly Put The Kettle On; Three Blind Mice; Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star; Hickory Dickory Dock; The Muffin Man. DRG Records DRGCD 19097
HORST JANKOWSKI – A Walk in the Black Forest (1967-69). Chitty Chitty Bang Bang; A Walk In The Black Forest; My Gerti; Moon River; By The Time I Get To Phoenix; Turkischer Marsch; Tiflis Melody; Our Beach Affair; Games Of Memories; This Guy's In Love With You; I Will Wait For You; Slick; Man & A Woman; Yesterday; Days Of Wine & Roses; Fly Me To The Moon; Lover's Concerto; Mcarthur Park; Violinkonzert D Dur; And We Got Love. Universal 983 776-2
GEORGE SHEARING – Swinging in a Latin Mood (1974). Lullaby Of Birdland; Continental; Do You Know The Way To San Jose; East Of The Sun And West Of The Moon; Thine Alone; Aquarius; We'll Be Together Again; I'll Be Around; Alone Again (Naturally); Nearness Of You; Hands Of Time; To A Wild Rose; Superstar; Eleanor Rigby; When Your Lover Has Gone; Roses Of Picardy; You Are The Sunshine Of My Life; Killing Me Softly With His Song; Someone To Watch Over Me; Way We Were.Universal 985 857-4
THE MARIACHI BRASS – A Taste of Tequila (1966) / Hats Off (1966). Featuring Chet Baker, Arrangements by Jack Nitzshe and George Tipton. Flowers On The Wall; Tequila; Mexico; Love Me With All Your Heart (Cuando Calienta El Sol); Hot Toddy; Twenty Four Hours From Tulsa; .Speedy Gonzales ; Come A Little Bit Closer ; El Paso ; La Bamba ; Happiness Is ;.Sure Gonna Miss Her; Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down) ; The Phoenix Love Theme (Senza Fine) ; These Boots Are Made For Walking ; On The Street Where You Live ;.Armen's Theme ; Spanish Harlem ; Chiquita Banana ; When The Day Is All Done ; You Baby ; It's Too Late ; Colonel Bogey March (Bonus Track). Ace CD BGPD 178
LENNY DEE – Double Dee-Light: Hi-Fi Organ solos with a beat (1954-56). 2 CD compilation.Plantation Boogie ; Laura ;Yes Sir That's My Baby ; Birth Of The Blues ; Little Brown Jug ; September Song ; Ballin' The Jack ; Exactly Like You ; Siboney ; Sweet Georgia Brown ; World Is ; Waiting For The Sunrise ; Donkey Serenade ; Coquette ; I'm Beginning To See The Light ; Chinatown; Charmaine ;Five Foot Two Eyes Of Blue ; Out Of Nowhere ; Caravan ; That's My Weakness Now ; This Ole House ; Five O'Clock Whistle ; Twelth Street Rag ; Good Night Sweetheart ; Delicious ; Stompin' At The Savoy ; Diane ; Honky Tonk Train Blues ; Alabamy Bound ; Tarragona ; At Sundown ; Jersey Bounce ; Hawaiian War Chant (Ta Hu Wa Hu Wai) ; What Is This Thing Called Love ; Toot ; Toot Tootsie Goodbye ; Jumpin' On The Organ ; Avalon ; Somebody Stole My Gal ; Hot Foot Boogie ; Josephine ; Way Down Yonder In New Orleans ; Oh You Beautiful Doll ; Indian Love Call ; Ain't She Sweet ; Yodelin' Organ ; Let Me Call You Sweetheart ; China Boy. Jasmine JASCD 427
CARMEN CAVALLARO – Stairway to the Stars (1941-55). 2 CD compilation. You're Mine, you; Dancing In The Dark ; I'm Always Chasing Rainbows ; Oh, Marie ; I Love You ; Medley of hits from 1932 - In A Shanty In Old Shanty Town/Speak To Me Of Love/Play Fiddle Play/Paradise; Medley of hits from 1932 - Forty Second Street/Of Thee I Sing/Shuffle Off To Buffalo; Someone To Watch Over Me ; Tonight We Love ; If I Had You ; Medley of hits from 1921 - Peggy O'Neil/When Francis Dances With Me/Song Of Love ; Medley of hits from 1932 Louisiana Hayride/You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me/Alone Together ; Come Back To Sorrento ; A Bushel And A Peck ; I've Never Been In Love Before ; I'll Know ; Fugue For Tinhorns ; My Time Of Day ; Medley of hits from 1932 - April In Paris/I've Told Every Little Star/The Song Is You ; I'll Follow My Secret Heart ; My Reverie ; Moon Love ; Body And Soul ; Our Love ; It's All Right With Me ; Medley of hits from 1932 - Soft Lights And Sweet Music/Night And Day/Underneath The Harlem Moon ; Medley of hits from 1932 - Brother Can You Spare A Dime/Just An Echo In The Valley/Let's Put Out The Lights ; Dream Of Love ; Lover ; Medley of hits from 1921 - Say It With Music/Tuck Me To Sleep In My Old Kentucky Home/My Mammy ; Guys And Dolls ; More I Cannot Wish You ; Luck Be A Lady ; If I Were A Bell ; Sue Me/Sit Down You're Rocking The Boat ; Medley of hits from 1921 - Ma, He's Making Eyes At Me/Yoo-Hoo/I'm Just Wild About Harry ; Medley of hits from 1921 - Sweet Lady/Make Believe/April Showers ; All Through The Night ; I Concentrate On You ; Falling In Love With Love ; Stairway To The Stars ; Ain't Misbehavin' ; Will You Remember? ; So In Love ; Love, Your Magic Spell Is ; Everywhere ; P.S. I Love You ; Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea ; September Song ; Tenderly. Jasmine JASCD 430
DANNY KAYE In Selections From The Soundtrack Of MERRY ANDREW Arranged And Conducted By NELSON RIDDLE (1958) / Music Of The BIG TOP CIRCUS BAND Conducted By Nelson Riddle (1950). The Pipes Of Pan ; Chin Up, Stout Fella ; Everything Is Ticketty Boo ; You Can’t Always Have What You Want ;. The Square Of The Hypotenuse ;. Salud (Buona Fortuna) ;. Medley: Thunder And Blazes / Billboard March ; Hippopotamus Rag ; Circus Waltz ; Lassus Trombone ; Minor March ; Bozo’s Song (March). DRG Records DRGCD 19082
BING CROSBY – A Musical Autobiography. 4 CDs. AVID AMBX147. Includes the complete 1954 5-LP set with between-track chat by Bing, accompanied by Buddy Cole and his Trio, followed by recordings with co-stars Mary Martin, Bob Hope, Andrews Sisters, Judy Garland, Al Johnson, Louis Armstrong and Jane Wyman. Selections from Paris Honeymoon and The Star Maker complete CD3. The 4th CD has 20 tracks of film soundtracks and publicity discs.
Classic Rey – ALVINO REY and his Orchestra with the Four King Sisters. Original recordings from 1940-44. Tiger Rag ; Not a Star in Sight ; Rose Room [Instrumental] ; Cielito Lindo (Beautiful Sky) ; Oh! For Heaven's Sake ; Dearly Beloved ; Drowsy Old Riff [Instrumental] ; Lover's Lullaby ; He Wears a Pair of Silver Wings ; Strip Polka ; How Green Was My Valley ; Gobs of Love ; William Tell [Instrumental] ; Daybreak ; Woodland Sympathy [Instrumental] ; I'm Old Fashioned ; Army Air Corps Song ; Sand in My Shoes ; Liebestraum (A Dream of Love) [Instrumental] ; Yo Te Amo, Oh! Baby ; Ferris Wheel ; Having a Lonely Time ; My Buddy ; San Fernando Valley. Flare ROYCCD 242
LENA HORNE with ROBERT FARNON AND HIS ORCHESTRA and featuring PHIL WOODS saxophone: "Lena – A New Album" I’ve Grown Accusomed to His Face, Someone To Watch Over Me, My Funny Valentine, Someday My Prince Will Come, I’ve Got The World On A String, Softly As I Leave You, I Have Dreamed, A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing, I’ve Got To Have You, My Ship Vocalion CDLK 4342, 43:03 mins. Last February Mike Dutton asked me to pen some notes for this reissue of an album which – I must confess – I hadn’t listened to carefully for several years. To say it was a magical experience is something of an understatement. Around that time, in the mid-1970s, we were in the happy situation of receiving a steady supply of new Farnon albums, each one containing some priceless gems. To coin a familiar phrase, it was like being let loose in a sweet shop; there were so many treats all around that you didn’t always realise how wonderful some of them really were. I am facing the same situation today when I make selections for the Guild Light Music CDs. I often include individual tracks from Bob’s early Decca LPs (now out of copyright) and in many cases they stand out from the rest. In their original settings, among twelve or so of similar works all receiving his masterly touch, the orchestrations still sounded wonderful – but not as wonderful as they seem today when placed in the spotlight on their own. After several years of negligence I have now returned to the Lena Horne project, and it has been a true revelation. At times I struggled to find the words to express my overwhelming feelings of admiration for the way in which Bob treated each number – the only exception being A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing which Lena’s husband Lennie Hayton arranged. When three unique talents met at London’s Olympic Studios in April 1976, the result was bound to be something rather special. Lena Horne had already been at the top of her profession for almost forty years, beginning with her international fame in great musicals such as "Stormy Weather " and "Cabin In The Sky" (both in 1943), leading to her many concert appearances at the finest venues. She felt equally at home at the plushest nightspots in London, Paris, Monte Carlo, Stockholm, Chicago and New York, and the talented little girl who grew up in Brooklyn never short-changed her legions of doting admirers. By the time she was 16 she appeared at the famous Cotton Club, and this tended to set the tone for her life in show business. Lena was in her element entertaining the diners in nightclubs, yet to the millions who adored her around the world it was her films and recordings that were so magical. Her taste in choosing her material was undoubtedly helped by her marriage to Lennie Hayton, from 1940 to 1953 one of the leading musical directors at M-G-M. The third ingredient in the magical mix of unique talents was Phil Woods, a bebop-influenced alto-saxophonist whose impressive credits included working with Benny Goodman, Quincy Jones, Gene Krupa and Thelonious Monk – to pick just four at random. He honed his craft during four years at the Julliard in New York where he majored in clarinet. Critics and readers of Downbeat praised him with awards, and he received two Grammys around the time that he went into the studios with Lena Horne and Robert Farnon. The bonus of an album such as this is that it allows those involved to express the music in a way that may be completely different from the version that has already become familiar. Divorced from "My Fair Lady", I’ve Grown Accustomed to his Face takes on an almost doleful feel, bringing out the full meanings in Alan Jay Lerner’s lyrics which cleverly convey the realisation that familiarity has moved on to a new, higher plane. Composers must get frustrated when their carefully crafted verses get omitted by singers, but happily Lena Horne does not disappoint in Someone to Watch Over Me. This track marks the first appearance of Phil Woods, far removed from his bebop roots, but his saxophone provides the perfect foil to Lena’s complete grasp of the meanings in the lyrics. My Funny Valentine reveals the Robert Farnon strings in all their glory, with an almost religious feel encompassing the singer who clearly worships her lover. The earlier comment about familiar versions of well known tunes certainly applies to Someday My Prince Will Come. For a while after the release of Walt Disney’s 1937 masterpiece "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs", Adriana Caselotti’s high soprano frightened off anyone else but by 1976 a new generation had emerged largely untouched by the original, and receptive to a new interpretation. Robert Farnon always knew when simplicity was best, and Lena begins with the intimate sound of Gordon Beck on piano, with the strings gently ushering in Phil Woods as the chorus ends. This is late night music par excellence. The simple theme is maintained in I’ve Got the World on a String with Phil Woods and Gordon Beck supported by Chris Laurence on bass, before the strings eventually shimmer in and alert us to the fact that the lady is about to sing – preceded by a suitable fanfare from the brass. Softly As I Leave You gets the tender treatment it deserves, with the strings providing a heart-rending backdrop before the piano provides just the right touch of perception.I Have Dreamed recreates the jazzy sound of saxophone, keyboard and bass, but the rich orchestral colours are never too distant. Lena’s husband Lennie Hayton provides the lovely string setting for A Flower is a Lovesome Thing, then I’ve Got to Have You is the one track that acknowledges that popular songwriters were still around in the 1970s, although styles had changed quite dramatically. Personally I feel that this is the one number that was out of place in this collection. Kurt Weill composed My Ship for the 1941 show "Lady in the Dark" and it now seems incredible that some bands at the time treated it as an up-tempo number (which you can find on a future Guild CD!), especially when you hear the magnificent setting created for Lena Horne and Phil Woods. Farnon always filled his orchestras with the top session players: his regular Concertmaster, and first violinist, was Raymond Cohen (for whom Farnon composed his "Rhapsody for Violin and Orchestra") and the usual choice of harpist was David Snell, today a leading composer and conductor for films. Each and every performer involved in this album was at their peak when this recording was created in 1976, and the sheer quality shines through in every track. I urge every reader to add it to their collection while they can. If you need an extra incentive, in the booklet there is a colour photo of Bob with Lena relaxing during a break in the sessions. David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [$20].
VINTAGE TV & RADIO CLASSICSSea Songs (Vaughan Williams), Marigold (Billy Mayerl), Waltzing with Sullivan (Gilbert Vinter), Sound & Vision (ATV March) (Eric Coates), Radio 4 Theme Tune (Fritz Spiegl), Holiday Spirit (Clive Richardson), Imperial Echoes (Arnold Sarfroni), Top Dog (Ivor Slaney),A Thousand Kisses (Archibald Joyce), Parisian Mode (Woolf Phillips), Willow Waltz (Cyril Watters),Non Stop (John Malcolm), Winter Sunshine (George Melachrino), Paris Promenade & Paris Metro(William Hill-Bowen), Out of the Blue (Hubert Bath), Barnacle Bill (Ashworth Hope), Galop (Alan Langford), Three Dance Revels (Montague Phillips), Widespread World (London Rediffusion Call Sign)(Johnny Dankworth). Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Paul Murphy and Gavin Sutherland Naxos 8.570332. These are all new recordings of old favourites and jolly good they are too. Try listening to them without first reading the liner notes and see if you can identify the programmes they introduced. Need a few clues? Oh all right then: try Billy Bunter, The Men from the Ministry, Children’s Newsreel and What’s My Line – but that’s only for starters. Edmund Whitehouse
While nothing can really match the original broadcast version of a famous signature tune, we have here a good varied collection of themes played by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. In particular, Vaughan Williams’ Sea Songs, the Radio 4 UK theme, Barnacle Bill and ATV’s Sound And Vision by Eric Coates are given rousing performances and, despite that ‘something’ which is nearly always lacking in the sound quality from Naxos, the whole package is very good value. The crowning glory is the quite outstanding reconstruction by Gavin Sutherland of Sir John Dankworth’s Rediffusion marchWidespread World. You can almost hear the voice of ITV’s Redvers Kyle introducing the TV station after the opening fanfare – great stuff! – well done the RPO (and Naxos).
Bill Watts
Of special interest here for many will be Fritz Spiegl’s Radio 4 UK Theme for early wakers over which there was such a hoo-ha last year when it was axed by the BBC. Some of the other 21 pieces on this disc have not been heard since the shellac years – three even had to be reconstructed – and here they are all freshly minted and played by one of our leading symphony orchestras. It is refreshing to find, among others, well-loved pieces by Billy Mayerl, Clive Richardson, Ivor Slaney, Archibald Joyce, Hubert Bath, and Montague Phillips given such a sparkling modern treatment. Among the memories evoked are those of ‘Radio Newsreel’ by the Arnold Safroni [real name, A.S. Middleton] march,Imperial Echoes, and there are reminders of two defunct TV stations in Eric Coates’ Sound and Vision ATV March and John Dankworth’s Widespread World, the original call sign music for Rediffusion London. And who of a certain age has ever forgotten Ashworth Hope’s Barnacle Bill, long-time signature tune for ‘Blue Peter?’ A warm welcome and **** from me for a collection that will give much pleasure.
Peter Burt This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £6 [$12].
FLORILÈGE DE MUSIQUES PITTORESQUES ("Bouquet of Picturesque Music") 4CD set - CD 1 features later recordings of old favourites Post Horn Galop (Orchestre Champetre), Teddy Bears’ Picnic (Teddy Petersen Orchestra), Doll Dance (Robert Maxwell, harp), Hot Canary (Florian Zabach), Fairy On The Clock (Reginald Foort, organ), In A Clock Store (JanCorduwener Orchestra), Tritsch Tratsch Polka (Johnny Nelson, whistler), Nola (Sidney Torch Orchestra), Toy Trumpet (Tommy Reilly, harmonica), Whistler And His Dog (Florian Zabach) 26 tracks; CD 2 includes separate sections with light music from Denmark , The Netherlands, France, Italy, Germany and the USA (Fiddle Derby – Percy Faith, Bugler’s Holiday – Leroy Anderson, On A Little Country Road In Switzerland – David Rose, Oriental Polka – Mitch Miller, Sandpaper Ballet – Leroy Anderson & Rainfall – Percy Faith) 26 tracks; CD 3 is a tribute to Britain’s contribution to Light Music from the late 1940s onwardsCoronation Scot (Sidney Torch), Messenger Boy (Ron Goodwin), Alpine Festival (Fred Hartley), Henpecking & Dancing Bells (Ray Martin), Comic Cuts & Song Of The ‘Maggie’ (Sidney Torch), Tic-Toc Tango (Ray Martin), Cornflakes (Sidney Torch), Jumping Bean (Robert Farnon), Waltzing Bugle Boy (Frank Chacksfield), Stringopation & Running Off The Rails (Philip Green), Flying Colours (Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra conducted by Robert Farnon), Strings On Parade (Ray Martin), Little Jumping Jack (Camarata – the one non-British conductor who crept in to this CD!), Tickled Pink (Ray Martin), Runaway Rocking Horse (Orchestre Raymonde), New Baby & Rip Van Twinkle (Norrie Paramor), Pied Piper (Frank Chacksfield), Elephant’s Tango (Cyril Stapleton), Ballet Of The Bells (Jackie Brown), Woodpecker’s Waltz (Ray Martin), Copenhagen Polka (George Melachrino), Little Laplander (Ron Goodwin) and Back Track (Stanley Black) 28 tracks; CD 4 focuses on virtuoso soloists Holiday For Strings (David Rose), Callahan’s Monkey (Norrie Paramor), Peanut Polka (Busketeers – Harmonica Group), Plink Plank Plunk (Florian Zabach), Galloping Comedians (Hotcha Harmonica Trio), Red Wings (Florian Zabach), Laughing Violin (Noucha Doina), Pizzicato Waltz (Helmut Zacharias), High Horse (Tommy Reilly), Fiddle Faddle (Wagn Sorensen, xylo-marimba), Fiddlin’ For Fun (David Rose) 23 tracks. (France) Marianne Melodie 071901 4 CDs not available separately. This incredible compilation is the brainchild of veteran French broadcaster Pierre-Marcel Ondher, and in the English section of the booklet Ralph Harvey accurately describes it as a ‘mini-anthology’. These four CDs contain a wide cross-section of so many music forms which PMO feels come within the umbrella of ‘light music’ in its widest sense. The emphasis is on what he calls ‘the juniors’, meaning the orchestras and soloists who carried the banner for light music following the second world war. PMO rightly believes that he has covered the earlier period (the 1920s and 1930s) comprehensively in his previous compilations such as ‘The Wonderful Music That Tells A Story’, and readers who have purchased his previous collections (following reviews in this magazine) will know that his immense knowledge of his subject is beyond doubt. He manages to find records that many of us simply didn’t know existed – for example, were you aware that a harmonica group called ‘Busketeers’ has recorded Robert Farnon’s Peanut Polka on the Tell Record label? It’s amusing to see Bob’s famous works listed as ‘Le Haricot Sauteur’ and ‘Cacahuète-Polka’ – alias Jumping Bean and Peanut Polka! Although there are some notes in English, the bulk of the highly informative booklet is in French. PMO has generously listed many of his friends in Light Music, including our own magazine. This collection – to put it simply – is a joyful celebration of the fun side of light music. It does not pretend to offer the more serious works in the genre that are widely available elsewhere, but the kind of bright pieces that make you smile when you hear them. The digital sound restoration appropriately provides clear, bright and crisp results that seem just right for this repertoire. Obviously the abridged tracklisting at the head of this review will alert you to the fact that you probably have many of these titles already in your collection. But at least one third – probably more like half – of the tracks are sufficiently rare to have eluded even the most assiduous collector over the years. A great deal of sheer hard work has gone into these four CDs, and everyone involved should be very proud of the finished product.David Ades This 4CD set is available to special order from the RFS Record Service – see page 96.
BOX OF DELIGHTS (British Light Musical Gems) London Fields- Springtime at Kew, Maze at Hampton Court, St. James Park, Hampstead Heath (Phyllis Tate), Three Waltzes (Samuel Coleridge-Taylor), Russian Scenes - At the Fair, Mazurka, Polka, Valse, Cossack Dance (Granville Bantock),Fancy Dress Suite - Hurly Burly, Dance of the Mummers, Dusk, Pageantry (Cecil Armstrong Gibbs),En Voyage - Golden Arrow, Channel Crossing, Yvette, Paris Soir (Elisabeth Lutyens). London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Barry Wordsworth and Simon Joly. Lyrita SRCD 214. 15 years is a long time to wait for a CD but gosh, it was worth waiting for. This is one of the Lyrita discs shelved in the early 1990s but now, happily, resurrected. The recordings are outstanding and the music superb. Phyllis Tate’s marvellous London Fields was composed for the 1958 BBC Light Music Festival, and is a shining example of what Light Music is all about. Joie de vivre pulsates through every movement with daffodils wafting gentry in the breeze at Kew and the xylophone running amok in the Hampton Court Maze. Meanwhile, swans glide along the pond at St. James Park and bank holiday makers go ape on the Hampstead Heath funfair during the exciting finale, subtitledRondo for Roundabouts. Samuel Coleridge-Taylor composed much wonderful light music during his short life, including the three rare waltzes heard here. Sir Granville Bantock is often regarded as austere but his Russian Scenes are real foot tapping eye openers. Armstrong Gibbs’ complete Fancy Dress Suite is rarely heard but this will hopefully now be redressed. Elisabeth Lutyens later eschewed her tuneful works, one of which is the rare En Voyage, a journey from London to Paris by boat and train. This "Box of Delights" really is a collection of "British Light Musical Gems"! Edmund Whitehouse
MATT MONRO From Matt Monro With Love When I Fall In Love, On Days Like These, From Russia With Love, Days Of Wine And Roses, Till Then My Love, Walk Away, Portrait Of My Love, etc 23 tracks EMI 3845212. This CD was released just in time for Valentine’s Day but beautiful music such as this deserves to be heard at any time of the year. He was one of the finest singers of his generation, and when you listen to his songs it makes you realise that today’s entertainment business seems to be lacking the kind of quality that Matt always exemplified. His daughter Michele has penned an excellent booklet note, but I would have liked to see his fine backing orchestras and arrangers given some credit in the tracklisting. David Ades
OLIVER CROMWELL Rutland Boughton 1st Symphony (Oliver Cromwell), Edgar Bainton 3rd Symphony. BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Vernon Handley. Dutton Epoch CDLX 7185. Recognise the orchestra and conductor? Then you will realise straight away that this must be tuneful music. Oliver Cromwell was composed as long ago as 1905 when British music was undergoing a renaissance, with Elgar a prominent figure championing his contemporaries. Bainton, a much underrated composer, was also active but was unfortunately interred during the First World war after being stranded during a European tour. He eventually emigrated to Australia as Director of the Sydney State Conservatory. This is a fine and timely CD premiering two forgotten works, made possible by generous separate donations from the Bainton, Boughton, and Oliver Cromwell Societies.Edmund Whitehouse All Dutton Epoch CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [$20].
THE MELODY LINGERS ON – 100 Unforgettable Memories on 4 CDs. Original Recordings, Original Artists. V2TV1031392. This is a stellar selection of songs largely from the early 1950s. Obviously not all the tracks can be listed here but from Nat ‘King’ Cole’s Pretend to Blue Tango by Ray Martin & His Concert Orchestra, from The Harry Lime Theme by Anton Karas to The Weavers’Goodnight Irene, from Judy Garland’s Over The Rainbow to Glenn Miller’s In The Mood, from It Might As Well Be Spring by Dick Haymes to Sinatra’s One For My Baby, this is a wonderful nostalgia inducing box-set. Most of the artists are from the U.S. but as well as the likes of Astaire, Clooney, Crosby, Day, Fitzgerald, The Ink Spots, Kelly [Gene], Lanza, and Waller there are contributions from, Calvert, Chacksfield, Mantovani, Josef Locke and Whitfield – not forgetting Chevalier, Piaf, and Trenet. If you shop around online the set can be found for less than £12.
Peter Burt
THE FILM MUSIC OF JOHN ADDISON Themes from I was Monty’s Double; Centennial; Swashbuckler; A Bridge Too Far; The Maggie; Reach for the Sky; Strange Invaders; The Man Between; Tom Jones; Charge of the Light Brigade; Brandy for the Parson; Torn Curtain; Touch and Go; Sleuth; Carleton-Browne of the F.O.; Murder She Wrote. BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Rumon Gamba. Chandos CHAN 10418 Another fine film music CD from the enterprising Chandos label. You are sure to recognise many of the tunes on offer, especially from Reach for the Sky but probably also the jaunty melody called The Maggie based on a Scottish puffer boat adventure. The rest varies from sheer suspense and drama such as Strange Invaders, The Charge of the Light Brigade and I was Monty’s Double to the comedy of Carleton-Browne of the Foreign Office. Watch out for five other premiere recordings amongst this great offering. Edmund Whitehouse
I have always enjoyed John Addison’s scores; for me they always included that certain ‘something’ which was lacking from many other film composers. I was disappointed that commercial recordings were not always available, especially of catchy themes such as I Was Monty’s Double. Happily soundtrack albums started to become more commonplace as his career developed, and his music made Torn Curtain far more enjoyable, even though I always felt that Julie Andrews was badly mis-cast – despite that memorable scene with the two buses – what suspense! I have to admit to some disappointment with the Sidney Torch version of Reach For The Sky; I heard a different arrangement played by the BBC Concert Orchestra on radio about thirty years ago, and other themes were introduced which I felt gave it a better balance. For many people it will be the theme for TV’s Murder She Wrote which is now Addison’s most familiar work, although that memorable march from A Bridge Too Far (a film which made me despair of the ability of high ranking officers of all nations to make the right decisions in wartime) surely runs it a close second. John Addison was a superb composer of film (and TV) music, and this collection is long overdue. Bravo Chandos! David Ades This CD is available from the RFS Record Service price £12.50 [$25]. SIR EDWARD ELGAR Wand of Youth Suite No. 1 (Overture, Serenade, Minuet, Sun Dance, Fairy Pipers, Slumber Scene, Fairies & Giants); Wand of Youth Suite No. 2 (March, Little Bells, Moths & Butterflies, Fountain Dance, Tame Bear, Wild Bears); Nursery Suite (Aubade, Serious Doll, Busyness, Sad Doll, Wagon Passes; Merry Doll, Dreaming); Dream Children. Ulster Orchestra conducted by Bryden Thomson and Bournemouth Sinfonietta conducted by Norman del Mar. Chandos CHAN 10422 X. Unmistakably Elgar but unmistakably light music of a very high quality. Both the charming Wand of Youth Suites date back to Elgar’s early years when children playing make believe fascinated him as a young man while The Nursery Suite was a late work dedicated to the young Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret. Meanwhile Dream Children provided a perfect introduction to an E. Nesbitt children’s television series. This release of a previous LP (now at budget price) is very welcome indeed. Edmund Whitehouse
STANLEY BLACK & The London Festival Orchestra – France & Russia. France -
Original Decca LP PFS 4110 (1967) Stereo: I Love Paris (Porter) ; What now my Love (Becaud; Delanoe) ;Hi-Lili, Hi-Lo (Kaper; Deutsch) ; At Last! At Last! (Miles; Trenet) ;Gigi medley (Loewe; Lerner) ; Gigi medley - The night they invented Champagne; Thank heavens for little girls ; La Normandie – Can Can (Offenbach arr Black) ;Mademoiselle de Paris (Durand; Maschwitz; Contet) ;La Mer (Trenet; Mair; Lawrence; Lasry) ; Plaisir d’Amour (Martini arr Black) ; French Soldiers medley (arr Black) - Can Can (Offenbach); Aupres de ma blonde; Vive la Compagnie; Alouette; La Marseillaise. Russia - Original Decca LP PFS 4084 (1966) Stereo: Meadowlands (Trad arr Black) ;Two Guitars (Trad arr Black) ; Under Moscow Skies (Trad arr Black) ; At the Balalaika (Posford; Maschwitz) ; Sabre Dance (Khachaturian) ; Dark Eyes (Trad arr Black) ; Trepak (Tchaikovsky) ; Song of the Volga Boatmen (Trad arr Black) ;Baba Yaga’s Hut – The Great Gate of Kiev (Mussorgsky orch Ravel). Vocalion CDLK 4336 2 LPS on 1 CD. Some very familiar titles here, but given the Black treatment this a superb disc – especially his rendering of the Cole Porters. I Love Paris is pure joy, enhanced by its stereo effects. Alec Hellyer All Dutton Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £10 [$20].
Orchestral Sweets 4 – Emerald Concert Orchestra / Christopher Ball.
Eric Coates – Merrymakers Overture ; Dance In The Twilight ; Knightsbridge March ; Charles Williams – Rhythm On Rails ; The Old Clockmaker ; Devil’s Galop ; David Rose – The Tiny Ballerina ; Holiday For Strings ; Ernest Tomlinson – Dick’s Maggot ; Little Serenade ; Peter Hope – Jaunting Car ; Playful Scherzo ; Trevor Duncan – The Girl From Corsica ; High Heels ; March From A Little Suite ; Victor Herbert – March Of The Toys ; Wally Stott – Rotten Row ; Pink Champagne ; Ron Goodwin – The Headless Horseman ; Anthony Collins – Vanity Fair ; George Gershwin – Walking The Dog ; Ronald Binge – The Watermill ; Vivian Ellis – Coronation Scott ; Peter Yorke – Sapphires And Sables. Dimore Records DRD108. Orchestral Sweets 5 – Emerald Concert Orchestra / Christopher Ball.Robert Farnon – Portrait Of A Flirt ; Westminster Waltz ; Little Miss Molly ; Jumping Bean ; How Beautiful Is Night ; Peanut Polka ; Manhattan Playboy ; Leroy Anderson – Serenata ; Trumpeter’s Lullaby ; The Waltzing Cat ; Sandpaper Ballet ; Fiddle Faddle ; Sarabande ; Jazz Legato ; Jazz Pizzicato ; Chicken Reel ; Horse And Buggy ; Promenade ; Plink Plank Plunk ; Pennywhistle Song ; The Typewriter ; The Syncopated Clock ; Forgotten Dreams ; Bugler’s Holiday ; Sleighride ; Holiday For Trombones ; Belle Of The Ball. Dinmore Records DRD109. The above two discs are available from Dinmore Records, 11 Romsley Hill Grange, Romsley, Worcs. B62 0LN. Tel/Fax 01562 710 801.www.dinmore-records.co.uk Email: . £5 per disc inc p+p, cheques only. A glance at the titles at the head of this review will tell you that the essence of this pair of discs is primarily popular light music classics which exist already in a number of alternative versions available in various compilations, many of them boasting modern stereo recordings. Before you dismiss these new releases as non-essential additions to your collection and turn the page, may I suggest that they have a number of positive features going for them which might make you wish to reconsider? They of course have the advantage of modern recording technology resulting in very good sound and furthermore Dinmore display a decent sized professional concert orchestra with an adequate number of strings, so vital in this type of repertoire – and you certainly get all the appropriate special effects, notably in the Leroy Anderson pieces on the second disc. All the music portrayed here is played with satisfying elan and style and obvious affection – and when all these virtues are coupled with maximum playing time and a super budget price they do make an exciting proposition. Indeed some of the titles on these discs receive better and more attractive performances than rival accounts. I cite, for example, Anthony Collins’ Vanity Fair which receives a less distant and fragile interpretation than John Wilson’s version on his all-Collins disc – Dutton Epoch CDLX7162 – whilst Vivian Ellis’ famed Coronation Scott definitely has noticeably more impetus than Ernest Tomlinson’s somewhat under-powered performance on Marco Polo 8.223522. As an added inducement there are several novelties included here – disc 1 includes Peter Hope’s Playful Scherzoand The Tiny Ballerina by David Rose, whilst a rare Leroy Anderson piece, Holiday For Trombones, appears on the second disc, all of which were new to me. There are no booklet notes with these discs but it would be churlish to make too much of this in view of their exceptional value, although it would have been interesting to have at least some background information about the orchestra and conductor and where the recording sessions took place. All light music aficionados should support this imaginative and welcome venture, and let us hope that Christopher Ball and the Emerald Concert Orchestra may be emboldened and encouraged to go on to record more of our sort of music. Roger Hyslop
Songs of STEPHEN FOSTER – Ashokan Farewell / Beautiful Dreamer. Jay Unger, Molly Mason [guitar], Thomas Hampson [baritone], David Alpher [piano]. Ashoken Farewell, Bound for Another Harvest Home, Prairie Spring, Haymaker’s Hoedown, Solstice Hymn, Thanksgiving Waltz, Le Chanson de Mardi Gras, Boneparte’s Retreat/Hoedown, Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair, Hard times, come again no more, The Voice of Bygone Days, Foster Favourites Medley, Beautiful Dreamer, etc. 20 tracks EMI Classics for Pleasure 09463 382225 2 1 [77:21] What wonderful releases it has been my privilege to review recently and this is one of the very best. The title track, another version of which is much requested on a certain radio station, is almost worth the cost of this budget priced re-issue alone. It was written by Jay Unger who also plays fiddle and violin, as well as arranging and being musical director throughout the disc. The Nashville Chamber Orchestra under Paul Gambill accompanies on a couple of tracks. The first eight tracks [listed above] celebrate farming and the seasons: half of them are Jay Ungar compositions, one is by Mrs Ungar [aka Molly Mason] and three are traditional. If you can listen to Haymaker’s Hoedown without tapping your feet, I’ll be surprised. On La Chanson de Mardi Gras you’ll find an interesting line-up of instruments including Cajun accordion, horse clops and triangle. The classical composer Aaron Copland used the melody of Boneparte’s Retreat as the primary theme for the ‘Hoedown’ in his ballet ‘Rodeo’. There are a dozen Stephen Foster tracks, most of them being graced by the sensitive singing of the superb Thomas Hampson. Although Beautiful Dreamer, described by David Foil in his very full liner notes as "the consummate Foster love song", sets the standard every track has its merits. I can’t imagine anyone who appreciates heart lifting music of any genre will regret adding this CD to their collection.
Peter Burt
EDMUNDO ROS and his Orchestra - Dancing With Edmundo & Heading South Of The Border. Dancing With Edmundo, Original Decca LP SKL 4100 (1960) Stereo: Cuban Love Song (Stothart; McHugh; Fields) Rumba ; Toku (Lecuona) Rumba ; Brasil (Barroso) Samba ;Lua do Brasil (Rios) Samba ; Spanish Gipsy Dance (Marquina) Paso Doble ; Te Quiero Y Ole (Laredo) Paso Doble ; Tony’s Cha Cha Cha (Osborne) Cha Cha Cha ; Pao Pao Cha Cha Cha (Monchito) Cha Cha Cha ; Te Quiero Dijiste (Grever) Rumba ; Divina Mujer (Moral) Rumba ; Copacabana (Ribeiro; De Barro) Samba ; Rio Brasil (Carvalinho; Monteiro) Samba ;La Morena de mi Copla (Catellanos; Villegas) Paso Doble ; Que me Estas Queriendo (Guijarro) Paso Doble ; Puerto Rican Peddler (Brandon) Cha Cha Cha ; Fanfare Cha Cha Cha (White) Cha Cha Cha. Heading South Of The Border, Original Decca LP PFS 4193 (1970) Stereo: Heading South (Rios) ; Mrs Robinson (Simon) ; Light My Fire (Morrison; Manzarek; Krieger; Densmore) ; What Now My Love (Becaud; Sigman; Delanoe) ; Forbidden Games (Yepes; Stellman) ; United We Stand (Hiller; Simons) ; Up, Up and Away (Webb) ; My Cherie Amour (Wonder; Moy; Cosby) ; I Was Kaiser Bill’s Batman ; (Greenaway; Cook) ; The Skaters’ Waltz (Waldteufel arr Ros; Hanmer) ; I’ll Never Fall in Love Again (Bacharach; David) ; Hey Jude (Lennon; McCartney). Vocalion CDLK 4334 - 2 LPS on 1 CD. There are some unfamiliar titles here among the familiar ones, all given the excellent Ros treatment. Alec Hellyer
ERIC COATES conducts ERIC COATES – For Your Delight. For Your Delight ; Calling All Workers ; Wood Nymphs ; Summer Days suite ; By The Tamarisk’ ; The Three Bears ; By The Sleepy Lagoon ; Cinderella ; A Song By The Way ; London suite ; Saxo-Rhapsody ; Footlights ; Sound And Vision ; London Again suite ; Springtime suite ; The Jester At The Wedding ballet concert suite ; Last Love ; The Three Elizabeths suite ; Four Centuries suite ; The Dam Busters. Sanctuary Living Era AJD 2013 – Double CD. This is another excellent collection which has received the magic touch of Alan Bunting. The sound quality is superb throughout. It is great to see five of Coates’ suites appearing complete in one package, including the infrequent Three Elizabeths and Four Centuries. Another gem from Living Era. Bill Watts This 2CD set is available from the RFS Record Service for £11 [$22].
THE DAY THE TV STOOD STILL – Winchester Hospital Radio WHRCD701. A double CD of melodic tunes compiled by Steven Wills, so you know the quality is going to be good. Here we have over 60 tracks from a wide range of composers, orchestras and bands. John Cacavas, Roger Webb, Angela Morley, Roger Roger, Syd Dale, Steve Race, Peter Yorke to name a few. But I’m sure of particular interest to Robert Farnon fans will be the tracks included here from the great man himself, namelyPleasure Drive, A Lonely Affair, Blue Moment, and Drum Dramatics No.13. This CD brings a host of lovely instrumentals together tunefully from those carefree "interlude" days when the TV stood still!Malcolm Batchelor
The advertisement on page 59 of this issue give you an idea of the contents of this 2CD collection, which mainly comes from original recordings in the Chappell Recorded Music Library from the late 1950s onwards, with the emphasis firmly in the 1960s. Thus the repertoire is mainly from a later period than that which is currently being covered in the Guild Light Music CDs, and the 61 tracks will provide many pieces which readers will not have had the opportunity to purchase previously. If you like this kind of repertoire, don’t hesitate to buy while this set is still available! David Ades Please refer to page 59 for details of how to purchase this collection. It is not available from the RFS Record Service.
ANDRẾ PREVIN Plays My Fair Lady & a dozen great standards – André Previn [Piano], Shelly Manne [Drums] and Leroy Vinnegar [Bass] 20 tracks including: I Got It Bad And That Ain’t Good, Take The "A" Train, This Can’t Be Love, Should I?, Hallelujah!, Just One Of Those Things, September In The Rain, Lullaby Of Broadway, Black And Blue, I’ve Got A Feeling I’m Falling, Honeysuckle Rose, Who’s Sorry Now? Sanctuary Living Era CD AJA 5656 [75’42"]. What a delight to find yet another fondly remembered recording resurrected on compact disc, with terrific tunes and immaculate instrumentalists. ‘Shelly Manne & His Friends: My Fair Lady’ was a hit LP recorded in August 1956, originally issued on the Contemporary Record label, that eventually became a classic of its genre. It also started the vogue for jazz treatments of Broadway scores. The ‘dozen great standards’ are all performed by the multi-talented Previn with either his Trio, Quartet or, in the case of the last track, Quartet plus Strings. The first six tracks listed above are from 1946-47, the rest from the ‘50s. If, like me, you are not in the habit of buying jazz CDs, then I urge you to make an exception for this one – it should be available online at £5.99. Sanctuary: I salute you for making an old[ish] man very happy.
Peter Burt Sanctuary Living Era single CDs are available from the RFS Record Service for £8 [$16].
GORDON JENKINS – A Musical Prodigy. Jasmine JASCD 660. Double CD. In his review of these recordings in JIM 171, David Ades rather damned with faint praise what arguably might be regarded as Jenkins' finest work, The Seven Dreams. I believe this is the first full version since the original LP on Decca DL9011, back in the early 50s (?) and, in my opinion, far outshines the earlier, more widely known and acclaimed Manhattan Tower, which here is a fair way short of the complete work. The Seven Dreams was wider in range and larger in scenario than he had previously attempted, with some memorable and beautiful melodies. There is indeed much narration, witty and highly original.The Blessing which ends The Pink Houseboat is gloriously uplifting. The whole theme of The Girl on the Rock is hauntingly enchanting. Even if you are not particularly a Jenkins' fan, this is well worth getting for The Seven Dreams alone. Ray Greaves This CD is available from the RFS Record Service for £12 [$24].
FRANK CHACKSFIELD – Frank Chacksfield in the Limelight Limelight theme & incidental music, Flirtation Waltz, Prelude to a Memory, Pulling Strings, Meet Mister Callaghan, Gin Fizz, Little Red Monkey, Golden Violins, Golden Tango, Dancing Princess, Pied Piper, Song of Canterbury, Misty Valley, Mademoiselle de Paris, Black Velvet, Someday I’ll Find You, Dance Little Lady, Twentieth Century Blues, Smile, Sur Le Pave de Paris, A Kid for Two Farthings, Cockleshell Heroes, Song of the Trees, Love is a Many Splendoured Thing, In Old Lisbon, The Donkey Cart, Memories of You, Waltzing Bugle Boy, Ebb Tide Sanctuary Living Era CD AJA 5655 [77:14]. If you have the 2001 Vocalion‘Presenting Frank Chacksfield’/’Dinner At Eight-Thirty’ [no longer in their back catalogue] there are over a dozen duplications here but if you are without a CD of early Chacksfield or no other copy of his mini-hit novelty number Little Red Monkey or The Donkey Cart – both UK chart entries – or the catchy Meet My Callaghan, which like Monkey features the clavioline, you will be interested in this. Many of the 30 mono tracks represent the late-flowering maestro [he achieved fame with Limelightand Ebb Tide in his 40th year] at his best. The aforementioned million sellers top and tail the collection. The lovely Song of Canterbury is from the pen of Ronald Binge, and Waltzing Bugle Boy is reckoned to be marginally superior to composer Ray Martin’s own version. Chaplin’s Smile is also included together with three Noel Coward numbers, two of Chacksfield’s own compositions, Georges Auric’s atmospheric Sur Le Pave De Paris, and a trio of 1955 movie themes. There are voices on four tracks which I would have preferred not to be there. The audio was in the hands of the masterly Alan Bunting and the informative liner notes are by David Ades, who gives due credit to arranger Leon Young – so what further recommendation to buy do we need?
Peter Burt
JOHN PHILIP SOUSA - Music for Wind Band Volume 6. Royal Artillery Band / Keith Brion.Easter Monday on the White House Lawn; The Golden Star; The Dauntless Battalion; Sextet from The Bride Elect; The Federal March; Three Quotations (Suite for Band ; The Liberty Bell; The Gridiron Club; La Reine de la Mer; The Chariot Race; The Gladiator; New Mexico March; The Picador March. Naxos American Classics 8559132. Quite a time has elapsed since the appearance of volume 5 in this Sousa series, reviewed as far back as the December 2004 issue of JIM (p.85) – but with the arrival of this latest splendid addition we have I think been amply rewarded. By far the best known piece in this new release for the general collector is Liberty Bell which came even more to resonate in the public memory by its adoption as the signature tune for BBC television’s popular comedy seriesMonty Python’s Flying Circus. The disc gets off to a lively enough start with a piece composed in ragtime and bearing the extraordinary title of Easter Monday On The Whitehouse Lawn, replacing the stately Coronation March as the concluding movement of Tales Of A Traveller suite. Thereafter comes an abrupt change of mood as the succeeding march The Golden Star, dating from 1919 and dedicated to Mrs Theodore Roosevelt, is cast in the form of a solemn and poignant funeral march written in honour of members of the American military who fell in the first world war and displaying a less familiar and more serious side of Sousa. Track 3 restores a more light-hearted genial mood withThe Dauntless Battalion, a fine march dating from 1922 to honour cadets of Pennsylvania Military Academy. Keith Brion has recorded the enigmatically titled three quotations previously on a Marco Polo disc carrying the appellation volume 3 on Wings of Lightning with the Bratislava-based Razamovski Symphony Orchestra, (catalogue number 8.223874). The quotations seem to have a fairly obscure origin, two coming from the 16th century, and whilst the music is entertaining enough, the individual movements labour under some bizarre titles such as The King Of France (with twenty-thousand men marched up the hill and then marched down again) and I Too Was Born In Arcadie. Interestingly enough Keith Brion takes more than a minute longer over the former movement with the Royal Artillery Band than he does with the Razamovski Symphony Orchestra. Track 11 on this CD amply demonstrates the ease with which Sousa moves from 4/4 to 3/4 when the occasion demands with a lovely lilting Waldteufian waltz which appropriately bears a French title La Reine De La Mer. The lady Sousa had in mind, alas, was the rather prosaic figure of the wife of the secretary to the US navy! The chariot race is a vivid descriptive piece which could easily have lent itself as suitable background music to many an action sequence in a feature film down the years, whilst theNew Mexico March with its Spanish inflections is a product of his later years. All the marches in this collection are played as usual with superb panache and swagger and the recording sessions, based at Woolwich town hall dating as far back as January 2002, incidentally were produced and edited by Mike Purton of the Specialist Recording Company and the resultant sound can be best described in one word – magnificent! If you haven’t already embarked on this outstanding series I do urge you to give it a try, particularly as the super budget price of these discs won’t exactly break the bank, and let us hope that Naxos doesn’t keep us waiting quite so long for the next one!
Roger Hyslop Naxos CDs are available from the RFS Record Service price £6 [$12].
MANTOVANI – Waltz Encores & American Waltzes Charmaine, Wyoming, Love Makes The World Go ‘Round [La Ronde De L’Amour], Love, Here Is My Heart, Lovely Lady, The Moulin Rouge Theme, Greensleeves, Lonely Ballerina, The Kiss In Your Eyes, Dear Love, My Love, I Live for You, Dream, Dream, Dream/The Waltz You Saved For Me, Beautiful Ohio, When The Moon Comes Over The Mountain, The Sidewalks Of New York, Marcheta, The Whiffenpoof Song, Let Me Call You Sweetheart, Missouri Waltz, The Sweetheart Of Sigma Chi, Meet Me In St Louis, Louis, Clementine, Alice Blue Gown [74:45 ] Vocalion CDLK 4341. With this release "CD" could well stand for "cracker of a disc" – Mantovani and waltzes were made for each other. Neither album has been issued in the UK before or on CD in the States. ‘Waltz Encores’, recorded in 1958, features stereo recordings of old favourites [several from Monty’s very first album and including five million sellers] with the stereo intensifying the tingle down the spine feeling those early cascading strings still give. The second album, from 1962, includes tracks which I imagine have never been heard before by many of Monty’s admirers. For those who appreciate voices with their orchestra, the female Sammes Chorus provide support on five of the songs. There is a delicious jangle piano on Sidewalks and Meet Me. Mantovani guru Colin Mackenzie tells me of something that only came to light after he had written his extensive liner notes: that when London [Decca] issued the Let Me Call You Sweetheart track on LP they chopped all 19 seconds off the lovely intro to the tune. The mistake was subsequently repeated on the Japanese CD. Mike Dutton discovered the abandoned intro at the end of the tape supplied to him by Universal and has restored it to where it belongs. Monty never made a less than good album but this 2-on-1 brings us two that bear comparison with his finest. An obvious "must have" for all Mantovanians, I would like to think that anyone who is aiming to build a representative collection of the best in light music will also consider giving it a spin.
Peter Burt
ERIC COATES – London Philharmonic Orchestra / Barry Wordsworth. The Three Men suite; Dancing Nights ; I Pitch my Lonely Caravan ; Birdsongs at Eventide / I Heard You Singing ; Summer Afternoon ; The Enchanted Garden ; Footlights ; Rhythm (from Four Centuries suite) ; London Bridge.Lyrita SRCD213. Lyrita has been busily engaged in recent months re-issuing much of their distinguished back catalogue, but this Coates compilation they have kept up their sleeves since this would appear to be its first appearance in any format. Further they have been somewhat coy regarding the details of this recording – no dates are given for the recording sessions or any indication where they took place. I would guess that they probably originate from the late 1980s or early 90s but Lyrita’s sense of timing is certainly impeccable since this year of course marks the 50thanniversary of the composer’s death. Centrepiece on this new disc is a splendid account of Coates’ longest single movement based upon a story suggested by his wife and briefly all about a princess menaced by the spirits of darkness and protected by the birds and animals in the garden until her prince returns – in the nick of time! The scenario of The Enchanted Garden is easy enough to follow through the genius of Coates’ vividly descriptive music and Barry Wordsworth’s beautifully structured and characterised interpretation which completely holds the attention from first bar to last. Also included is a complete The Three Men suite, the final movement of which – The Man From The Sea – finally resolves into a fugue in which Johnny Come Down To Hilo and Three Blind Mice are cleverly interleaved and two of Coates’ elegant and graceful waltzes Footlights and Dancing Nights, the latter sounding suitably and stylishly svelte. Alas, there is only room for the concluding movement of theFour Centuries suite with its emphasis on the dance rhythms of the 20th century, but Wordsworth compensates by bringing out the rich heady art-deco feel to this music. This disc is brought to a resounding conclusion by one of Coates’ inimitable marches, the stirring London Bridge, dating from 1934, and if memory hasn’t failed me completely, this was deployed as the signature tune of a daily BBC radio soap which predated Mrs Dale and I think might have been called The Robinson Family. This Lyrita release comes at premium price £15 although by shopping around a little you may find a cheaper copy – but nonetheless this is unmistakably a Rolls Royce product and you will be amply compensated by superb accounts of Eric Coates’ music, excellently recorded and with generous playing time. Unmissable!
Roger Hyslop
NEW YEAR’S CONCERT IN VIENNA 1987 – Wiener Philharmoniker / Herbert von KarajanDie Fledermaus: Overture, Music of the Spheres, Anna Polka, Delirium, Pleasure-train, Pizzicat-Polka, Beloved Anna Polka, Thunder and Lightning, Voices of Spring, Without a Care!, The Blue Danube, Radetzky March. Emperor Waltz [80:29] DG Grand Prix 477 6336. Those for whom Mantovani’s‘Strauss Waltzes’ [reviewed in our last issue] would not have been to their liking, this is the "real" thing. Originally released in the year of recording it is now reissued at mid-price with an added "bonus" track of the glorious Kaiser-Walzer. The orchestra was, and still is, arguably the best in the world ─ certainly in this repertoire. Karajan was one of the greatest conductors ever and this live foray into the lighter end of the classical genre is still regarded as foremost in a long line of such recordings. The soprano Kathleen Battle is a charming soloist in Voices. I find the music of Johann Strauss the elder and his two sons Johann and Josef irresistible, and this release is highly recommended.
Peter Burt
HALLÉ ORCHESTRA Conducted by MARK ELDER Claude Debussy (1862-1918) La Mer, Preludes Sanctuary/Hallé CD HLL 7513, 67:24 mins. Debussy completed the orchestration of La Meron the south coast of England at Eastbourne in 1905. This magnificent work is now regarded as a fine piece of classical music, and it has probably encouraged many listeners to explore further the riches on offer in similar vein. Yet the critics were less than favourable at its premiere – such is the way in which fashions change over time. I grew up listening to this work on a Decca 10" Medium Play LP (remember those?) by Ernest Ansermet and L’Orchestre de la Suisse Romande. In one’s youth there is a temptation to believe that the first, familiar version of a particular work becomes regarded as the definitive one. Later, when exposed to other conductors’ interpretations subtle changes in tempi and emphasis can add to the understanding of what the composer may have had in mind. Mark Elder’s reading of La Mer seems, to me, to be fairly similar to my familiar Ansermet, apart from a noticeable slowing of the tempo towards the climax which, in my humble opinion, adds to the majesty and grandeur of the work. The composer’s Preludes were written for piano, and in 2001 Mark Elder commissioned Colin Matthews to orchestrate them for the Hallé. The CD booklet explains that "…far from writing note-for-note transcriptions, Matthews has discovered the secret of each piece and in most cases translated it faithfully, which does not mean literally, into orchestral terms." London born Colin Matthews is Associate Composer with the Hallé, and he studied music at the Universities of Nottingham and Sussex, where he also taught, and subsequently worked with Benjamin Britten and Imogen Holst. Apart from the final movement, The Girl With The Flaxen Hair (now in a sumptuous string setting by Matthews) I have to show my ignorance by admitting that I am not familiar with these works; all I can say is that the orchestrations sound faithful to the style of Debussy. If any readers have not yet added La Mer to their collection, I have no hesitation in recommending this version. David Ades
WERNER MÜLLER and his Orchestra – Spectacular Tangos & Gypsy! La Cumparsita, Blue Tango, Jalousie, Tango Bolero, Carminito, Czardas, Hungarian Dance No.5, Zorba’s Dance, Gypsy Love, At the Balalaika, etc. 24 tracks [77:38] Vocalion CDLK 4318. Those of you who, like me, are pushovers for both tango and gypsy music will delight in this 2-on-I as much as I have. The tune selection is fairly predictable but there are some interesting arrangements and the playing is of a high standard. Even the inclusion of a wordless chorus on some of the first album’s tracks does not raise my usual hackles. [I wonder why four of the tracks from the original LP have been replaced.] It’s a pity that Vocalion is no longer giving us the total playing time and, in consideration of those new to Herr Müller’s music, the complete absence of liner notes is also to be regretted. Both the albums were originally issued in Decca’s famed Phase 4 format and have been spectacularly remastered. Enjoy!
Peter Burt
With thanks to Wilfred Askew for bringing the following releases to our attention:
BING CROSBY – Good and Rare (recorded 1949-55). The Yodel Blues ; So In Love ; Someplace On Anywhere Road ; So Tall A Tree ; This Is The Time ; And You'll Be Home ; Milady - (with Dorothy Kirsten) ; The Best Thing For You ; Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo ; Silver Moon ; Don't Ever Be Afraid To Go Home ; On The 10.10 From Ten-Ten-Tennessee - (with Ben Lessey) ; Ohio ; Cela M'est Egal ; What A Little Moonlight Can Do - (with Gary Crosby) ; My Love, My Love ; Mon Coeur Est Un Violon ; La Vie En Rose ; Embrasse-Moi Bien ; Liebchen ; The River ; It's Mine, It's Yours ; The Search Is Through ; The Land Around Us ; Let's Harmonize ; Jim, Johnny And Jonas ; Farewell. Sepia 1071
CATERINA VALENTE – The Hi-Fi Nightingale (recorded 1954-55), original Polydor recordings.Just you, just me ; Istanbul ; Oho Aha ; Casanova ; El mosquito ; Ganz Paris ; I love Paris ; Gespensterblues ; The Breeze And I ; If hearts could talk ; Temptation ; This ecstasy ; Jalousie ; Fiesta cubana ; Malaguena ; The way you love me ; My Lonely Lover ; Begin the beguine ; Siboney ; This must be wrong. Cherry Red ACMEN87CD.
BILLY COTTON and his Band – Wakey Wakey! Featuring Alan Breeze and Doreen Stephens. I've Got A Lovely Bunch Of Coconuts ; Poppa Piccolino ; The Dam Busters March ; When You're Home With The Ones You Love ; Someone Else I'd Like To Be ; He's A Real Tough Guy ; Bring Your Smile Along ; Play Me Hearts And Flowers ; Yellow Rose Of Texas ; Hang On The Bell, Nellie ; When You Hear Big Ben ; The Petite Waltz ; Somebody Goofed ; I Only Saw Him Once ; The Ring Fell Under The Sofa ; Crazy Mixed Up Song ; This 'Ole House ; A Present For Bob ; The Whistling Song ; Where Did The Chicken Lay The Eggie? ; Big Head (Big 'Ead) ; Friends And Neighbours ; Domani ; I Miss My Darling ; Rain ; Two On A Tandem ; Can I Canoe You Up The River ; Oh Little Fish ; I Love The Sunshine Of Your Smile ; Dandelion Clock ; Have You Made The Day Worthwhile ; Longing For You ; Stick It On The Wall, Mrs. Riley ; Daddy's Little Girl ; If I Were A Blackbird ; The Flying Saucer ; London Calls ; The Night The Floor Fell In ; Star Of Hope ; A-Hunting We Will Go. Pulse PDSCD 645 – Double CD.
PAUL MAURIAT and his Orchestra – Blooming Hits. Somethin' Stupid; Penny Lane ; This Is My Song ; Alone In The World ; Inch Allah ; There's A Kind Of Hush (All Over The World) ; Puppet On A String ; L'Amour Est Bleu (Love Is Blue) ; Adieu To The Night ; Mama. Collectors’ Choice CCM-0710-2
MICHEL LEGRAND and his Orchestra – Paris, Rome Vienna. I Love Paris ; Mademoiselle de Paris ; Paris ; Autumn Leaves ; Under the Bridges of Paris ; Seine ; Paris in the Spring ; Paris Canaille ; April in Paris ; Paris ; Vie en Rose ; Under Paris Skies ; Paris, Je T'Aime ; Song from Moulin Rouge ; Last Time I Saw Paris ; I Love Paris (Reprise) ; Vieni Vieni ; Fiorin Fiorello ; Dicitencello Vuie! ; Neapolitan Nights ; Aveva un Bavero ; Munasterio 'E Santa Chiara ; Vola Columba ; Luna Lunera ; Funiculi Funicula ; ; Addormentarmi Cosi ; Torna a Surriento (Copme Back to Sorrento) ; Vilia ; 'Third Man' Theme ; Cafe Mozart Waltz.Cherry Red ACMEM73CD.
VICTOR SILVESTER and his Ballroom Orchestra – Strictly Ballroom Dancing.
Summer Sweetheart ; Rosalie ; Apple Blossom Time ; White Sails ; A Mist Is Over The Moon; Fragrant Flowers; Tears On My Pillow; Love Bells; Green Eyes ; Deep Purple ; Maria, My Own; So Deep Is The Night; I'll Write A Love Song; When You Wish Upon A Star ; Shy ; Begin The Beguine; Once In A While; Faith Forever; My Secret Love Affair; Cuban Lady ; The Lady Is A Tramp ; Mexicali Rose ; Give A Little Whistle. Sunflower SUN2170.
THE SQUADRONAIRES – Wolf on the Prowl. Ring Dem Bells ; Five Minutes More ; Reflections On The Water ; High Society ; Picnic In The Snow ; Somebody Stole My Rose Coloured Glasses ; Winter Wonderland ;Hobo's Prayer ; More Than Ever Before ; Jeeper's Creepers ; The Champ ; Slow And Easy ; Mudhopper ; Wine, Women And Song ; Wolf On The Prowl ; Set Me Free ; Hesitation ; Coach Call Boogie ; Lies ; Donegal Cradle Song ; Eventide ; The Last Waltz. Sunflower SUN2166.
CARROLL GIBBONS and the Savoy Hotel Orpheans – Sweet as a Song. On The Air ; My Romance ; You're A Sweetheart ; A Foggy Day ; My Love For You ; One Song ; Nice Work If You Can Get It ; Tears In My Heart ; Can I Forget You ; Francesca ; The Masquerade Is Over ; In The Still Of The Night ; Sweet As A Song ; With A Smile And A Song ; Over Wyoming ; Rosalie ; The Moon Got In My Eyes ; Please Be Kind ; Silver Wedding Waltz Sentimental Fool ; Goodnight My Love ; Wandering Along. Sunflower SUN2168
Mike Dutton continues to please critics and buyers alike with his interesting mix of new releases. In May it was the turn of his budget labels, and the following details are taken from the press release.
CDBP 9772 focuses on the 1940s Decca recordings of violinist Ida Haendel performing works by Mendelssohn and Stravinsky, as well as those of Szymanowski, De Falla and Albéniz. Malcolm Sargent conducting the National Symphony Orcehstra accompanies Haendel in a performance of Mendelssohn’s Concerto in E minor for Violin and Orchestra, while in contrast Stravinsky’s La Baiser de la Fée: Divertimento for Violin and Piano (arranged by violinist Samuel Dushkin and based on Stravinsky’s ballet music ‘The Fairy’s Kiss’) shows off Haendel in an intimate chamber setting. Among the other works on this disc are Szymanowski’s Tarantella and Albéniz’s Malagueña – the latter in an arrangement by Kreisler.
The legendary Busch Quartet are the subject of CDBP 9773, which contains two of their 1930s HMV recordings of Beethoven’s string quartets. Led by Adolf Busch and acclaimed as perhaps the finest interpreters of the composer’s work in that idiom, their recordings of the Quartet in C major No.3 ‘Rasumovsky’ and the Quartet in C sharp minor No.14 leave the listener in no doubt as to why they enjoy such exalted status among chamber music groups of their era. Also available: Dutton CDBP 9743 The Busch Quartet and Pro Arte Play Schubert and CDBP 9765 Busch Quartet Play Beethoven Vol.1
Several of the finest 1940s and ’50s recordings of Marian Anderson are contained in CDBP 9774, which is one of two discs in Dutton’s May 2007 batch of releases to feature singers. Subtitled Oratorio and Lieder, this release contains superlative examples of her recordings in those styles. Anderson is accompanied by pianist Franz Rupp in Schubert’s Ave Maria and by pianist Kosti Vehanen in Der Tod und Das Mädchen, and by Robert Shaw conducting the RCA Chamber Orchestra in an excerpt from Bach’s Christmas Oratorio and Zum Reinen Wasser from Cantata No.112, among other items.
CDBP 9775 concentrates on the voice of Helge Roswanege, known as ‘The Dane with the High D’. Recorded during the 1930s and ’40s, these remarkable performances show off his unique voice to telling effect in repertoire ranging from Puccini’s Madama Butterfly and Bizet’s Carmen to the works of lesser known but equally engaging composers such as Kattnigg (Balkanliebe) and Wille (Küss die hand, schöne frau). Also available: Dutton CDBP 9728 Helge Roswaenge - The Dane with the High D
CDBP 9776 sees the continuation of Dutton’s commitment to the music of Sir Edward Elgar, in a glorious programme of this giant of British music’s late 1920s and ’30s HMV recordings. Including works such as Falstaff: Symphonic Study in C minor, the charming Nursery Suite (the version presented here recorded in the presence of royalty) and the Cello Concerto in E minor, with Beatrice Harrison as soloist, we are reminded why Elgar was such a force to be reckoned with in 20thcentury music. On this disc the composer conducts the London Symphony and New Symphony Orchestras. Other Dutton Elgar discs include CDLX 7172 The Spirit of England and CDLX 7148Elgar/Walker Piano Concerto
CDBP 9777 is a particularly remarkable release, as it comprises recordings made in the pre-electric ‘acoustic’ era. Titled British Composers Conduct on Acoustic, it features recordings dating back as far as 1916 of charming orchestral works such as Sir Frederic Cowen’s The Butterfly’s Ball, Elgar’s Fringes of the Fleet recorded for HMV in 1917 and Holst’s Beni Mora – Oriental Suiterecorded in 1924. Music aside, it is quite astonishing to hear how incredibly clear these vintage recordings sound in the 21st century, owing to Michael J. Dutton’s exquisite remastering.
CDBP 9778 is the latest chapter in Dutton’s ongoing series featuring composers performing their own works, and in this instance the focus is on three very important names in 20th century music. Bartok plays piano in his fascinating Contrasts for Violin, Clarinet and Piano, which is also notable for featuring clarinettist Benny Goodman. Manuel de Falla is the harpsichordist in hisConcerto for Harpsichord featuring flautist Marcel Moyse, while Poulenc’s pianistic talents are on display in his Aubade concerto scored for eighteen instruments. Rounding off this programme is Jean Françaix’s Concerto for Piano and Orchestra conducted by Nadia Boulanger, andConcertino for Piano and Orchestra conducted by Leo Borchard - both with the composer as pianist.
Several important HMV recordings by conductor Sir Eugene Goossens, spanning the 1920s to the 1950s, are compiled on CDBP 9779. In the main they focus on Goossens’s recordings of Bax’s works – a composer he championed – including Tintagel composed between 1917-19, and his Symphony No.2 in E Minor & C composed between 1924-26. The latter work was broadcast by the BBC in November 1956 as part of their memorial cycle of Bax’s symphonies, and is the recorded version presented here. Also included on this disc are Goossens’s recordings of Australian composer John Antill’s remarkable Corroboree ballet suite, which incorporated Aboriginal musical influences, and Goossens’s own work Tam O’Shanter, inspired by Robert Burns’s familiar poem.
Kenneth McKellar makes his fourth appearance on the Vocalion label with CDLF 8131, which is the first ever CD reissue of his 1965 Decca stereo album Songs of the British Isles. Here the famous Scottish tenor is heard giving unique and beautiful interpretations of traditional songs – in arrangements by Bob Sharples – including Cockles and Mussels, Greensleeves and Island Moonamong many others.
Orchestral
BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC PREMIERES VOLUME 4 Ernest Tomlinson:Aladdin (1974) -Jewel Dances, Aladdin’s Dance of Joy, Young Man in Love; John Fox: A Surrey Rhapsody (2006); Jim Cooke: Concert Jig (2004); Phillip Lord: Nautical Overture (1965); Richard Valery: The Magic Carpet (1940); Lionel Sainsbury: Cuban Dance No.2 (1991); Adam Saunders: Overture - Pirates Ahoy! (2006); Carey Blyton: The Golden Road to Samarkand (1991); Peter Flinn: Cinema Suite (2006). Royal Ballet Sinfonia conducted by Gavin Sutherland and Paul Murphy (Dutton Epoch CDLX7190).
The advance publicity for this new release states: This is the latest instalment in Dutton Epoch’s prestigious series of light music CDs and, as with the previous volumes, features Gavin Sutherland conducting the Birmingham Royal Ballet Sinfonia through sparkling recordings of charming light music scores by some of the finest British composers working in the genre. Ernest Tomlinson’sAladdin opens the disc and bears the hallmarks of grace, elegance and melodic invention for which this figurehead of British light music is so well-known. Among the many other delights on offer include Surrey-born composer John Fox’s orchestral ode to his home county A Surrey Rhapsody, and Carey Blyton’s enchanting The Golden Road to Samarkand orchestral suite. As ever, Gavin Sutherland’s inspired conducting and the Royal Ballet Sinfonia’s impeccable and sensitive playing combine to bring this colourful, beautiful music to life in spectacular fashion. A review of this important new release will appear in our next issue.
NEW GUILD "GOLDEN AGE OF LIGHT MUSIC" CDs
5129 "Beyond The Blue Horizon" full tracklisting in JIM 170, page 15
5130 "Cornflakes" full tracklisting in JIM 171, page 80
5131 "Light Music On The Move" full tracklisting in JIM 171, page 82
Readers who remember the late pianist and composer Albert Semprini may recall how he introduced his regular BBC Radio programmes with what we would today term a ‘mission statement’ – ‘Old ones – New ones – Loved ones – Neglected ones’. This formula could well apply to the entire GUILD series and to these three CDs in particular. [The ‘new’ ones are not actually new, of course - just unfamiliar!]
Beyond The Blue Horizon is a collection of Light Music which presents ‘…a mix of likeable melodies featuring different colours.’ Not surprisingly, Blue definitely predominates here, as it seems many composers have a ‘thing’ about that colour, and it’s featured in 14 of the 27 tracks. Many of these originate from commercial 78s, although there are some interesting library pieces, including Out Of The Blue (Robert Busby) and Blue Mink (Peter Yorke), both of which I well remember were used in BBC tv demonstration transmissions during the early ’50s. Also included is, I believe, another first for GUILD – a rare BBC Transcription recording (The White Scarf by Edgar Bainton). There’s a wonderful Robert Farnon arrangement of Irving Berlin’s Blue Skies, which features the great Dave Goldberg on guitar, and an equally superb Angela Morley treatment of Deep Purple (Parish, De Rose). The highly enjoyable programme is rounded off with another rarity – George Melachrino’s Fantasy Ballet, based on the traditional Little Brown Jug. This is taken from a 1947 recording for the EMI library, which Melachrino was instrumental in setting-up in association with the record company in the early years after WWII.
Cornflakes was not necessarily designed to accompany your breakfast – although it would perform that duty admirably – but, like a number of other GUILD CDs, takes its name from the title of one of its tracks, in this case a Norrie Paramor composition. There are many familiar numbers featuring some leading ’50s musical directors, including Frank Cordell, the aforementioned George Melachrino, Werner Müller, Cyril Stapleton, Mantovani and Malcolm Lockyer. Almost half of the items are grouped together under the title The Polygon Legacy and included in this section are most of the latter company’s tracks which have not already appeared on other GUILD releases. There are some very informative liner notes detailing Polygon’s history and its subsequent demise, when it was subsumed into PYE Records in the mid ’50s. One unfortunate omission, however, is apparent in Song Of The Pearl Fishers’ Tango by the Laurie Johnson Orchestra, which is credited to ‘Heno Gaze – (arr Johnson)’. Whatever became of the actual composer of the tune in question – one Georges Bizet?!
Light Music On The Move is a compilation of mainly upbeat pieces depicting movement in many forms on Land, Sea and Air. Transport features prominently and besides several trains (inevitably!), we are treated to such delights as a Cycling Chimp (Pagan), a few horses and a donkey, a couple of fairground roundabouts and John Malcolm’s famous Non Stop, which must have earned him a penny or two as it was used for many years as the signature tune for Independent Television News on British TV [see also my comments towards the end of this feature]. In contrast you’ll find anAmsterdam Sleepwalker (Steggerda), a space journey, and if you hanker after a more relaxed form of movement, try Drifting On A Cloud (D’Artega - Syracuse ). As with all of these new offerings, LMOTM is a clever assemblage of excellent tracks with Alan Bunting’s digital transfers being of his usual superlative quality. Tony Clayden
BEST OF BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC 2CD compilation
CD 1 includes CURZON: Robin Hood Suite: March of the Bowmen; HEDGES: Overture: Heigham Sound; TOYE: Concert Waltz: The Haunted Ballroom; FARNON: Melody Fair; WOOD: Serenade to Youth; COLLINS: Vanity Fair; TOMLINSON: A Little Serenade; QUILTER: A Children’s Overture; WORLAND: Millennium — A Celebration March; KETELBEY: In a Persian Market; GRAINGER: Country Gardens; ADDINSELL: Goodbye Mr Chips: Theme; GOODWIN: Theme from 633 Squadron"
CD 2 includes BENNETT: Theme and Waltz from ‘Murder on the Orient Express’; WHITE: Puffin’ Billy; TORCH: ALL Strings and Fancy Free; MAYERL: Marigold; DUNCAN: High Heels; ELLIS: Coronation Scot; FARNON: Colditz March; KETELBEY: In a Monastery Garden; BINGE: Elizabethan Serenade; COATES: By the Sleepy Lagoon; COLERIDGE-TAYLOR: Hiawatha Overture; GERMAN: Tom Jones, Act III: For Tonight (Sophia’s Waltz-Song); COATES: Dam Busters’ March Various Orchestras Naxos 8570575-76 (2 CDs). Naxos decided to make this compilation ‘CD Of The Month’ for August, which demonstrates their faith in Light Music. The tracks are taken from previous Naxos and Marco Polo CDs, and represent some of the finest composers of the last century.
MUSIC FROM MOTION PICTURES
Exodus, Cimarron, King of Kings, Ben-Hur, The Bible, Butterfield 8, Colonel Bogey/River Kwai March, The Robe, Lygia, Julie, Romeo and Juliet, Spellbound, Spartacus and more
David Rose and his orchestra (Frank Bristow, FBCD161)
MUSIC FROM STAGE AND SCREEN
Humoresque, Great Pretender, Fascination, Love is a Many Splendoured Thing, Bewitched, Just a Memory, Take My Love, Serenade, What’s New Pussycat, Forbidden Planet, La Strada, I’ll Take Romance, And I Love Her, Pigeon and more
David Rose and his orchestra (Frank Bristow, FBCD162)
A DAVID ROSE COLLECTION
Intermezzo, Beautiful Ohio, Diane, Was It a Dream?, Remember, Satisfaction, King of the Road, Estudiantina, Every Time We Say Goodbye, Downtown, Are You Sincere? and more
David Rose and his orchestra (Frank Bristow, FBCD163)
Our Australian friend, Frank Bristow, has already issued a dozen or so David Rose CDs but he has found another 85 ex-MGM tracks to issue over the span of three CDs (all available separately) with a total playing time of nearly four hours! Without checking each individual track, I can’t say offhand whether there is any duplication with previously issued material, but I’d be inclined to say not. Taking the discs in numerical order, the first one is the best with works by the elite composers of Hollywood embracing works by Steiner, Rota, Tiomkin, Rozsa, Newman et al. It has such best sellers as The Green Leaves of Summer, Laura, Around the World, Summertime in Venice and Tara’s Theme. In fact there isn’t one dud track among them (well, you wouldn’t expect one, would you?)
"Stage and Screen" has more of the same (including the only Rose composition in the whole set, something called Pigeon) plus semi classical pieces, a Beatles hit and other songs of the late 50’s and early 60’s. There are also ten songs from the Moose Charlap and Norman Gimbel’s 1948 Broadway flop "Whoop Up" which, as far as I could hear from the selection, deserved better.
"The Rose Collection" is a hybrid (you could say a motley) melange ranging from Strauss and Romberg to Bob Dylan and the Rolling Stones. Eleven tracks are devoted to jazzed-up versions of Tchaikovsky, Brahms and Grieg which (to be quite frank) are neither one thing nor the other!
Arthur Jackson
Frank Bristow CD’s are ONLY available directly from him at 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria 3186, Australia. Tel. 03-9528-3167. Email: Credit cards and Paypal are accepted, but no cheques — details on request. Please visit his website for further details on CDs in his catalogue www.musicfromthepast.com
SONGS TO REMEMBER/THE INCOMPARABLE MANTOVANI
With These Hands, Faraway Places, A Very Precious Love, Jamaica Farewell, Tenderly, Blue Star, Gigi, When I Fall In Love, No Other Love, Vaya Con Dios, Two Different Worlds, Tonight/I Wonder Who’s Kissing Her Now, As Time Goes By, Catch A Falling Star, Where Are You, (I Left My Heart) In San Francisco, I’ll Be Seeing You, Yesterdays, Fly Me To The Moon, I’ll Get By, September In The Rain, Long Ago, More
Mantovani and his orchestra (Vocalion CDLK 4347) 78.07
These albums were both originally issued in 1960 — neither have been issued on CD in Europe or America before — and the first includes some of the best songs of the previous decade in which Mantovani had become world famous. Monty-meister Colin Mackenzie tells me that it is in his top five of favourite albums. The well remembered Edward Rubach is the pianist on Blue Star, which was the theme for the US TV series ‘Medic’; Monty himself plays piano on the lovely When I Fall In Love. My favourite track is Jamaica Farewell with an arrangement by Roland Shaw which I have treasured in my mind for years but for some long forgotten reason did not buy on LP at the time! Richard Rodgers’ No Other Love is delicately played, the big Les Paul and Mary Ford hit Vaya Con Dios(meaning go with God in Spanish) has a nice touch of accordion, and the Bernstein piece is given a powerful rendition. In the June issue of JIM, I was highly enthusiastic about the last Vocalion reissue from Mantovani — my enthusiasm is maintained for this album. The second selection is also attractive with Monty’s trademark swoop of strings very strikingly used on Catch A Falling Star(catchy being the word to describe the Cecil Milner arrangement!), a couple of beautifully arranged Jerome Kern classics, and I Wonder with its effective use of Ivor Mairant’s electric guitar. Incidentally, I was surprised to learn from Colin’s comprehensive liner notes that the song dates from as far back as 1909! We all, including those readers who still resist the Venice born maestro, should be thankful to Mike Dutton for not only enabling Mantovanians to obtain well-loved recordings in a CD format, as well as filling a few gaps in our collections, but also for giving new light music enthusiasts an opportunity to hear someone who really was incomparable.
Peter Burt
LOST ENGLAND
George Butterworth: 2 English Idylls, The Banks of Green Willow
Walter Leigh: Squadron 992, Overture — Jolly Roger, Harpsichord Concertino, The Fairy of the Phone
Kent Sinfonia/Malcolm Riley with Marion Whitehead (harpsichord)
‘Lost’ because both George Butterworth and Walter Leigh were killed in combat during the world wars. The Butterworth pieces have been recorded previously, and possibly better, but these thoughtful performances are worth having. The discs principle interest comes with the Water Leigh items as his music is little heard. Before his premature death, he composed chamber music (issued fairly recently on a Dutton CD), two operettas and some twenty film scores. Here we have the overture to one of the operettas, which is cheerfully nautical, the Harpsichord Concertino is light in touch, but with a hint of his study with Hindemith and two film scores lovingly reconstructed by Malcolm Riley. The Fairy of the Phone was written for a GPO film unit release on how to use the telephone; it is for six vocalists and ten instrumentalists (six of them woodwind) in an engaging ‘1930s popular’ idiom. Squadron 992 comes from a 1940 documentary on the move of an RAF balloon unit and recalls the music of Vaughan Williams and Sir William Walton. All told, a valuable issue well played by Kent Sinfonia whose fresh sound I like, and recorded with commendable clarity if less full toned than many modern releases. Strongly recommended.
Philip L Scowcroft
This CD is only available from Kent Sinfonia, 5 Pine Grove, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 2AJ () £11 incl. P&P
TOWARDS AN UNKNOWN LAND
Quay and Departure, Towards an Unknown Land, Stars My Compass, Song to the Sea, Dream in the Sun, Lifetime Ago, Eastern Waltz, Loch, Out in the Cold, Sirens
Michael Buck (Prestige, CDSGP9041) 54:40
Close your eyes and listen to the music and you are sure to be transported away on a unique musical journey. What has been achieved in the past with a full orchestra is created here by one man and his imagination. The composer of all ten tracks plays high quality samples that ‘live’ in his computer and are controlled by him from a digital piano (Yamaha P90). Michael also uses several virtual synthesizers (Spectrasonics Atmosphere Synthesizer and East West Symphonic Choirs) to get some of the lovely textured backgrounds. The entire album was produced and recorded in Michael’s own studio which is set-up in his home. Michael would love one day to record with a full real orchestra, but this is currently beyond his reach, but he is nevertheless very happy with this, his first album. Listening to the tracks is like watching a film in your mind, by simply sitting back, relaxing and hearing this musical story. This is a CD to dip in and out of, as listened to in full, readers may find this repetitive and the tracks merge into one. The title track is a highlight along with A Lifetime Ago which are both very reflective. There is certainly some influence from John Barry and Ennio Morricone in some of these tracks. So if you want something new to try, then you won’t be disappointed with this CD release.
Adam Endacott
SPIRIT OF VIENNA Overture "Reiche Madchen" (Strauss II), music from Operetta "Katz und Maus" (Strauss III), Traumverloren Waltz (Siegfried Translateur), march and waltz from Operetta "Casanova" (Paul Lincke), also works by Alfons Czibulka, Edmund Eysler, Richard Eilenburg and Joseph Hellmesberger Die Flotten Geister, Czech Republic Conducted by Christian PollackThe press release from The Johann Strauss Society of Great Britain describes this as a scintillating new recording of rare operetta & Viennese dance music which has been co-issued by the Johann Strauss Societies of Great Britain and the Czech Republic. This album features the renowned European orchestra ‘Die Flotten Geister’ and Viennese supremo Christian Pollack conducting. Warning — this is no ordinary Strauss & Co album — for a start there’s no ‘Blue Danube’ or ‘Radetzky March’! The music featured on this disc comprises worthwhile compositions which have until now escaped the recording studio, making it a premiere recording in every respect. Johann Strauss II (the Waltz King) is represented with two virtually unknown operetta overtures Reiche Mädchen and Fanny Elssler. The waltz is by no means forgotten and the transfix of three/four time is represented by the respective pens of nephew Johann Strauss, Siegfried Translateur, Edmund Eysler, Paul Lincke, and Joseph Hellmesberger. There are marches, polkas, and gavottes by Paul Lincke, Alfons Czibulka and Richard Eilenberg to fill up this jam packed disc which runs for a truly melodic 79 minutes. The recording was produced in the Czech Republic.
"Spirit of Vienna" is available online from:
The Johann Strauss Society of Great Britain www.johann-strauss.org.uk
or through Discovery Records Limited, Nursted Road, Devizes, Wilts. SNIO 3DY. www.discovery-records.com
Price £12.99 UK inc. P&P
CASINO DANCES
Hiawatha, Fox Intermezzo, Marusja*, Yearning (Just for You), Musette, Da Capo,Londonderry Air*, Hello Ma Baby, Donkey Serenade, Serenata, Pizzicato Violins, Casino Dances, Sparrow Concerto, Monna Vanna*, Zigeuner Boogie, By the Waters of Minnetonka,Von der Puszta
Aspidistra Drawing Room Orchestra with Elizabeth Menezes* (soprano).
This CD seeks to recreate the sound of the once popular saloon orchestra with its seven players and follows their previous two CDs in the series. This is indeed a foot-tapping confection, mainly of less familiar material from the light music genre. The Londonderry Air is heard in a less usual version, by the composer Geoffrey O’Connor-Morris. Of the rest I particularly enjoyed Helmut Zacharias’ two gypsy-based titles and it is good to hear a Jacob Gade tango which is not Jealousy. Performances by the orchestra, which includes flute and oboe to add colour, are splendid and well recorded. Highly recommendable.
Philip L Scowcroft
This CD can only be purchased directly from the Aspidistra Drawing Room Orchestra; please see www.aspidistra.org for further details or send a cheque made payable to ‘Aspidistra Drawing Room Orchestra’ for £11 (incl. P&P) to 49 Bankside, London, SE1 9JE, England.
THE BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC COLLECTION Volume 1 2CD set Royal Ballet Sinfonia Conducted by Gavin Sutherland Sanctuary CD RSB 205. This is a reissue of two ASV White Line collections: the first was originally released on CD WHL 2113 as "Brian Kay’s British Light Music Discoveries" in 1998; the second CD first appeared in 2000 as "British Light Music Discoveries 2" on CD WHL 2126. The composers include Sir Malcolm Arnold (The Roots of Heaven and Little Suite No. 4), William Alwyn (Suite of Scottish Dances), Clifton Parker (The Glass Slipper – Overture), Sir Richard Rodney Bennett (Little Suite); David Lyon (Joie de Vivre), Paul Lewis (English Overture) and Philip Lane (Suite of Cotswold Folk Dances). These works (and there are more on these CDs) should be in every serious light music collection, so if you missed these the first time round this is your opportunity to remedy the omission. The booklet says there are two more similar volumes of reissues to follow – hopefully the purchase of Sanctuary by Universal will not disrupt these plans. David Ades
CALYPSO/CALYPSO MAN
Saturday Night, All Night Tonight, Sll the Pussy, Papa Says, Margie, Limbo Bar, High Cheek Bones, Run for the Doctor, Melodie d’amour and many more
Edmundo Ros and his orchestra (Vocalion CDLK 4348). How pleasant it is to be able to hear every word on this album (unlike the music of today) especially so as every song tells a story, again unlike today’s music. This is Edmundo Ros at his very best and I highly recommend this release to add to your Latin American collections.
Alec Hellyer
HIGH IN SIERRA
Tap Tap, Sururu, Chica Boa, Jamaica Way, To Be or Not To Be, High in Sierra, Off Shore, Wonderful, Latin Lady, When You’re in Love, So Deep My Love and many more
Roberto Inglez and his orchestra (Vocalion CDEA 6131) 75:39 This disc is great stuff and is the third CD that Vocalion have issued of Roberto Inglez — it is always a pleasure to listen to his orchestra. With 27 tracks this is certainly great value. With the so called summer weather we are having at the moment, it is nice to get this CD to bring some sunshine into the room.
Alec Hellyer
SERENATA
Love is Blue, Hungarian Dance No. 5, Penelope, Sabre Dance, A Frenchman in Dublin, Paris Musette, Angelic Demon, Rio Forever, Le Piano Sur La Vague, A Whole New World, Great Brilliant Waltz Op 18, Entr’act of L’Arlesienne, Intermezzo from Carmen, Invitation to the Dance
Paul Mauriat and his orchestra (GLD GK38359)
MOVIE THEMES
Unchained Melody, Lara’s Theme, Calling You (from ‘Baghdad Café’), Beauty and the Beast, I Will Always Love You, Charade, Chariots of Fire, Colours of the Wind, Schindler’s List, Conquest of Paradise
Paul Mauriat and his orchestra (GLD GK38361)
SAYONARA CONCERT
Space Race, My Heart Will Go On, Invitation to the Dance, Etude in a New Form, Piano Concerto No. 21 Andante, Caravan, Thais Meditation, Czardas, Dolls and Dreams, Serenade a Coline, Begin the Beguine, Toccata, Penelope, Love is Blue/El Bimbo, Hungarian Dance No. 5
Paul Mauriat and his orchestra (GLD GK38360)
These three CD’s, released only in Argentina, contain a compilation of songs recorded by Paul Mauriat during the nineties. The ‘Serenata’ CD contains great hits of the sixties and seventies such asLove is Blue, Penelope and Le Piano Sur La Vague whereas the ‘Movie Themes’ CD has a repertoire of film songs of the nineties plus some remembered themes like Lara’s Theme from ‘Doctor Zhivago’ and Charade. The third CD is a live concert released in Osaka, Japan and dated 29 November 1998. Mauriat offers us an interesting selection of his best hits, world-known melodies and some classics. This is a collection of CD’s for every Mauriat fan and collector of his recordings.
Mario Luis Kocian Rossi
GRANDES EXITOS
Que C’est Triste Venice, A Man Without Love, Lamento Borincano, My Sweet Lord, Mariachi, All of Me, Sunny, Aranjuez, Sentimental Paris, Brigitte, Mona Lisa, Unforgettable, Ecology, A Man and a Woman
Franck Pourcel and his orchestra (EMI 72434997278)
This is an interesting compilation released by EMI in Argentina with a total of fourteen tracks including great Pourcel hits. The songs are digitally remastered and the sound quality is excellent.
Mario Luis Kocian Rossi
GRANDES MELODIAS
Strangers in the Night*, My Sweet Lord^, Bridge Over Troubled Water~, Only You, Somewhere My Love*, The Most Beautiful Girl^, Last Tango in Paris~, Singing in the Rain, Melodie D’Amour*, Michelle^, Love Story~, Moon River
Ray Conniff*, Percy Faith^, Andre Kostelanetz~ and Caravelli (Columbia 2-470045)
A reissue product containing songs digitally remastered on CD by Columbia Argentina. This is a good release for lovers of good compilations.
Mario Luis Kocian Rossi
SLEEPY SHORES
Sleepy Shores, Live and Let Die, Aranjuez Concerto, Killing Me Softly, The Morning is Broken, Brother Sun Sister Moon, Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree, Summer of 42, If, You’re a Lady, The Green Leaves of Summer, People, Sing, Zarathustra
Johnny Pearson and his orchestra (Carmusic 0203-02)
This rare recording of the composer of the remembered Sleepy Shores contains an interesting repertoire of songs from films of the seventies and great hits like Tie a Yellow Ribbon, Killing Me Softly and Green Leaves of Summer. Now available on CD in Argentina and also available (like the other Argentine releases) for members and collectors.
Mario Luis Kocian Rossi
RFS members who are interested in buying any of the CDs from Argentina reviewed above are invited to write to: Mario Luis Kocian Rossi, Sucre 2815, C 1428, DVY, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
THE COMPLETE MANHATTAN TOWER
Magical City, Happiness Cocktail, I’m Learnin’ My Latin, Once Upon a Dream, Never Leave Me, This Close to the Dawn, Repeat After Me, The Magic Fire, Married I Can Always Get, The Statue of Liberty, The Party, New York’s My Home and bonus tracks
Gordon Jenkins (Sepia Records, 1087) 76:00
Although I am not a fan of the work of Gordon Jenkins, I listened to this CD with a fresh mind and to reappraise his work. The Manhattan Tower work has quite a following and it is released here in its entirety, recorded back in July 1956. The music is well orchestrated and a very polished performance is given by the Gordon Jenkins orchestra but the linking narrative becomes dull and irritating for me. The highlight for me was Never Leave Me which is a very dramatic piece with Elliott Lewis and the Ralph Brewster singers. The bonus tracks are a range of vocal and instrumental pieces from 1953-55 with Gordon at the piano for Angel’s Lullaby. Remastered by RFS member Robin Cherry, the sound quality is excellent and accompanying CD booklet is very detailed and includes all recording dates and personnel. This is certainly for those who remember the Manhattan Tower with affection and for those not accustomed to the work of Gordon Jenkins.
Adam Endacott
ROMANTIC EUROPE Love in Madrid, Under the bridges of Paris, In old Lisbon, Swedish Rhapsody, London by night, Tulips from Amsterdam, Vienna, city of my dreams, Summertime in Venice, Wonderful Copenhagen, Stars over Crete, La Belle Suisse, Wonderland by night
GLAMOROUS HOLIDAY Evening in Paris, Ca c’est Paris, J’attendrai, Mademoiselle de Paris, Clopin-clopant, Parlez-moi d’amour, La vie en rose, Can can, Evening in Rome, Santa Lucia, Anema e core, Mattinata, Catari, Catari, The echo told me a lie, Mama, Come back to Sorrento Frank Chacksfield and his Orchestra (Vocalion CDLK 4345) 73:45. Another collectable 2-on-1 from one of Britain’s most popular ever orchestra leaders who, as another reviewer once wrote, "rarely, if ever, puts a foot wrong." The first album was originally issued on a Decca Eclipse album in 1972. In the complete absence of any booklet notes, I am left wondering if like some earlier Ace of Clubs budget issues it was aimed at the North American market. Among the highlights for me is the evocative French horn on London by night and Stars over Crete with its shimmering strings. La Paloma is not as overblown as it sometimes is, and it is interesting to hear Chacksfield’s take on items more associated with Riddle, Faith, Mantovani and Kaempfert. In old Lisbon is different from Frank’s 78 rpm version.
The second album was an early stereo issue in 1958. The titles had already appeared on the 1954/55 mono LPs ‘Evening in Paris’ and ’Evening in Rome’, the CD of which was recently deleted by Vocalion [CDLK 4167]. This has been a disc I have often returned to, and for anyone who missed it here is a chance to get half of the 28 tracks in twin-channelled sound. Chacksfield had a way with Italian melodies throughout his celebrated career. As far as I could tell from the limited time I had to compare them, the arrangements here are not exact copies of the earlier albums. The arrangements throughout the disc [only Leon Young is credited on two tracks] are always interesting and keep the listener involved. The use of accordion, guitar and mandolin is well-judged. The sound is enhanced by Mike Dutton’s customary fine remastering. Peter Burt
GUILD "GOLDEN AGE OF LIGHT MUSIC" CDs
5132 "Continental Flavour" full tracklisting in JIM 172, page 72
5133 "Amor Amor" full tracklisting in JIM 172, page 73
Continuing their successful policy of developing different themes for the series, David Ades and Alan Bunting have come up with one or two new ideas. New to GUILD, that is – both CDs are very much in a similar vein to many albums which made their appearance in the heyday of the LP, although naturally there is a wider variety of performing styles represented here than would normally be the case on a one- orchestra disc.
Continental Flavour provides a mix of European, British and American orchestras; a good number of pieces are by Continental composers, with some British notables (and a sole American) making up the balance. As usual, the familiar ‘rubs shoulders’ with the ‘rarely-if-ever-heard-of’ variety, but there are some most welcome surprises. Listening to this selection a few times, it struck me that there is often a marked difference between the ‘sound’ of British composers and their French, Italian, German and Spanish counterparts. It has a lot to do with the orchestration and sometimes the instrumental lineup employed.
The team is to be congratulated in putting together another very imaginative and thoroughly enjoyable collection, which I’m sure will win many new friends.
Amor Amor – Music For Romance again takes its title from an eponymous track, in this instance by the Frank Cordell Orchestra. The original plan was to call it Cocktails For Two after the opening number, a marvellous arrangement of the Johnson-Coslow composition (originally written to celebrate the end of prohibition in the USA); this could only have been created by Robert Farnon and is faultlessly executed under his baton. The full roll call of orchestras is impressive and includes those of Ron Goodwin, David Rose, Stanley Black, Werner Müller, Philip Green and Gordon Jenkins – several other equals share the honours, with a total of 24 tracks of the highest quality – they don’t come any better than this. The mood is very relaxed and the whole CD would undoubtedly make a perfect accompaniment to an intimate candlelit dinner for two; the only things missing are a suitably exotic meal and some appropriately fine wine - but regrettably, these items are not included in the price!
These two latest releases, together with the previous three reviewed at the top of this feature, were excellent company on a recent lengthy drive from my home in North London to the North West of England and back. They are all extremely worthy additions to the GUILD catalogue, which has now topped well over the 30-mark, but stand by for some more newcomers which I hope to review in the near future.
Tony Clayden
AT THE MOVIES
Over the Rainbow, Moon River, As Time Goes By, Somewhere (from ‘West Side Story’), The Shadow of your Smile, The Pink Panther, The Way We Were, The Summer Knows, It Might be You, Cinema Paradiso Suite, A Whole New World, Schindler’s List Dave Koz, saxophone (Capitol 383 6582). It’s always nice when something turns out to be so much better than you expect. When this CD arrived from EMI I took a quick glance though the booklet (with my magnifying glass!) and read the publicity blurb. Until I actually played the CD I had no idea that the talented jazz musicians were going to be supported by a lush-sounding concert orchestra performing some very pleasant arrangements. Dave Koz is obviously a talented player who solos on soprano, alto and tenor sax (at times supported by trumpeter Chris Botti), with guest singers on most of the tracks – among them Barry Manilow, Anita Baker, Johnny Mathis and Donna Summer. The opening track features an excerpt from Judy Garland singing her most famous song, while there are some spoken words from Ingrid Bergman to introduceAs Time Goes By. Rob Mounsey, Rob Mathes, Randy Waldman and Victor Vanacore share the arranging and conducting credits, and at times it seems that the great arrangers of the past half-century are looking over their shoulders. Two numbers – It Might be You and The Shadow of your Smile are reprised at the end in instrumental-only versions. A lot of money has been spent on this recording and the quality is obvious. If you enjoy popular music that is melodious and slightly jazzy, without being too abrasive, then you would do well to sample this. Of course, it isn’t light music in any sense, but I certainly like it and I suspect that many readers of this magazine might also welcome it into their collections as a fine example of today’s younger musicians. David Ades
Classical
BBC LEGENDS: SILVESTRI — ELGAR SYMPHONY NO.1 ETC
Cockaigne Overture, Symphony No. 1 (Sir Edward Elgar), Beckus the Dandipratt (Sir Malcolm Arnold), Symphony No. 2 (Tchaikovsky), Jeux (Debussy), Four Sea Interludes (Sir Benjamin Britten), Romanian Rhapsody No. 1 (Enescu)
Constantin Silvestri and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BBC Legends, BBCL 4182-2). I always tell people if they want to hear a piece of music done the right way, then listen to the old ones — such is the case with this breath taking two CD set! The heart of this release is the greatest single recording ever of Elgar’s First Symphony — it can be made to sound shapeless and formless in less caring hands. Here, Silvestri keeps everything in check with great attention paid to each individual strand and the result is a sharply focused performance with every player knowing their parts and executing them with confidence and assuredness. The same qualities are heard in another troublesome score that of Debussy’s Jeux which is very clear cut. The Tchaikovsky Second Symphony also benefits from Silvestri’s inspired leadership, matching many points brought out by this work’s greatest advocate, composer Igor Stravinsky. The Britten Sea Interludes come from an entirely different concept than Previn’s rather hasty, sloppy performance. Silvestri’s penetrating insight into the gnarled textures of this work result in one of the most satisfying readings available to the general public. The crowning glory was always a great favourite of Silvestri’s, Enescu’s fabulously colourful Roumanian Rhapsody No.1 in which images of a true Roumanian band are more vividly caught than in any other reading. Even if classical music is not your ‘bag’, buy this immensely rewarding set. It will become one of the jewels in your treasure box of favourites!
Richard Jessen
SONG OF THE BIRDS – ENGLISH CELLO MUSIC (Sanctuary White Line CD WHL 2153).
At JIM we do our best to make available details of interesting CDs as soon as they are released; unfortunately, this is one that got away! Published way back in 2004, it seems to have escaped the notice of our stalwart band of reviewers, and might still be in a state of limbo were it not for a chance remark made to me recently by Marjorie Cullerne, on the telephone from Canada, when I was preparing for the unveiling of the commemoration plaque to her great uncle, Haydn Wood (see more details on page ????). The strange thing is, I was aware of plans for a recording of Wood’sPhilharmonic Variations For Cello And Orchestra; it was being spoken about by Ray Crick, of Sanctuary Records, a good eight or nine years ago and forms part of this splendid collection. Although the CD box bears the label British Light Music, the four compositions are really at the ‘serious’ end of the genre. They were all published between 1936 and 1951, with the exception of the Rubra work. Herbert Murill (1909-1952) had become organ scholar at Worcester College, Oxford, by the age of 19 and after studying (and later teaching) composition at the RAM, became Assistant Head of Music and then Director of Music at the BBC, an appointment abruptly curtailed by his death at the age of only 43. Written for the composer’s cellist wife, Vera Canning, the Cello Concerto is dedicated ‘…in respect and affection…’ to the great Pablo Casals and features a Catalan folk melody Song Of The Birds which permeates the entire concerto and from which the CD takes its name. Sir George Dyson (1883-1964) was the son of a Halifax, Yorkshire, blacksmith and having gained his FRCO at 16, won an open scholarship to the RCM where he studied under Sir Charles Villiers Stanford. ThePrelude, Fantasy and Chaconne was written in 1936 for his daughter Alice who was a cello student at the time, and in effect is a miniature three-movement concerto. Edmund Rubra (1901-1986) hailed from Northampton and although originally a railway booking clerk eventually studied with Gustav Holst at Reading University and later went on to the RCM. His career as a pianist and composer flourished during the 1930s; the Soliloquy was written during WWII, when the composer was the pianist for the Army Classical Music Group. This is no miniature, but a full-blown symphonic movement scored for strings, two horns and timpani. And so to the jewel in the crown; Haydn Wood (1882-1959) also studied with Stanford at the RCM, and has been recounted before, produced a large canon of compositions in both ‘light’ and ‘serious’ genres. In the latter category are Piano and Violin concertos and these Philharmonic Variations, which were given for the first time in 1939 by the BBC Symphony Orchestra under the composer’s baton. After an introductory solo passage, which seems to allude to the Elgar Cello Concerto, the main theme is stated, followed by seven variations and an extended finale with an elaborate cadenza. The whole work has echoes of Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations; it lay forgotten for half a century until revived for a concert performance in 1990 at Eton College. This piece is further proof, if such were needed, of the undoubted composing talents of Haydn Wood, who is only now receiving the recognition which he so richly deserves. The performances are in the highly capable hands of cellist Rafael Wallfisch and the BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted this time by the greatly underrated Vernon Hanley, whilst recording engineer Paul Waton has worked the same magic with the acoustic at BBC’s Maida Vale studios that he would repeat some seven months later for the first Montague Phillips (Vocalion) CD.
Tony Clayden
Keyboard
SO WHAT’S NEW?
Calling All Workers, Estrellita, Waltz from Masquerade, Eternally, Temptation Rag, The Rose, Medley: Downtown/YMCA/Avenues and Alleyways, Serenade, Medley: The Girl from Ipanema/Moving South/Eso Beso, Medley: Almost Like Being in Love/May I Have the Next Dream with You/I've Heard That Song Before, Medley: Ragtime/And All That Jazz, The Whistler and His Dog, The Trolley Song, Medley: Under the Sea/You've Got a Friend in Me, Medley: Ciribiribin/Oh Maria Marie/Autumn in Rome/On an Evening in Roma, The Harry Lime Theme, Medley: I Wish You Love/If You Love Me, Medley: So What's New?/Jeepers Creepers/Everything's in Rhythm With My Heart
Phil Kelsall (Grasmere, GRCD127) 71:56
You can always rely on Phil Kelsall to release a CD with a variety of tunes and tempos and ‘So What’s New?’ will not disappoint with just over an hour of Wurlitzer at its best with all the stops pulled out. Tim Wills co-wrote Moving South and Eso Beso (although not credited after the tunes) and also produced this CD. Old favourites such as Calling All Workers, Waltz from Masquerade and The Harry Lime Theme mingle with lesser heard tunes. The Rose has an enjoyable church organ section. Covering three decades Downtown, YMCA and Avenues and Alleyways start the foot tapping and the medley of Italian related songs have you thinking of warm nights and holidays. Disney is not forgotten with Under the Sea and You’ve Got a Friend in Me. This CD was recorded in January 2007 on the Wurlitzer Organ at the Tower Ballroom, Blackpool.
Gillian Endacott
ALFRED HOLLINS — ORGAN WORKS
Concert Overture in C major , Benediction Nuptiale, A Trumpet Minuet, Allegretto grazioso, Concert Overture in C minor, Evening Rest, Concert Overture in F minor, Andante in D, A Song of Sunshine, Maytime Gavotte, Theme with Variations and Fugue
Timothy Byram-Wigfield (Delphian DCD34044) 80:00 www.delphianrecords.co.uk
The composer, Alfred Hollins, born in Hull in 1865 had the very considerable handicap of being totally blind, but he enjoyed a high reputation as both a virtuoso concert pianist and organist. His compositions for the latter instrument despite the vagaries of musical fashion have always continued to feature in the repertoire of many organists. It is in this latter regard that a review of this new Delphian disc seems appropriate since Hollins was often dubbed ‘the Eric Coates of the organ loft’. He wrote a number of delightful, often delicate light miniatures, for the ‘king’ of instruments of which several are included here. There’s a radiant A Song of Sunrise, a charming Maytime Gavotte and a resplendent A Trumpet Minuet, Handelian in character and with highly effective use being made of the trumpet stop. As for the more overtly serious works such as the three Concert Overtures and the substantial Theme with Variations and Fugue, these are all highly accessible and attractive pieces in which good robust memorable themes are never far from the surface.
The attractions of this release are further enhanced by virtue of the fact that Timothy Byram-Wigfield plays on the three manual organ designed by Alfred Hollins himself which was installed in the Caird Hall, Dundee opened in 1923 . The recording and performances are superlative, unlike so much organ music on CD’s where much of the detail can be clouded by excessive reverberation — everything here is crystal clear with every detail telling. Timothy Byram-Wigfield incidentally holds the post of Master of Music at St Georges, Windsor. An outstanding recital of rewarding and essentially tuneful organ music and I do urge you to give Alfred Hollins a try. Roger Hyslop
Military and Brass Bands
THE MUSIC OF THE BLUES AND ROYALS
Overture — My Old Stable Jacket, The Windsorian, The Tangier Horse, Le Cheval Royal, Men of Kent, March of the Royal Horse Guards, Music for the Queen’s Birthday Parade and more
The Band of the Blues and Royals (Specialist Recording Company SRC133) 76:00
The SRC series featuring music associated with specific regiments of the British army continues with the Blues and Royals. There are no less than 39 tracks on this CD, principally trumpet calls and a selection of fast and slow marches and it is impossible to include comment on all of them, so I hope these highlights will give a sufficient flavour to persuade some readers to put it on their shopping list! Particularly noteworthy is Cavalry Brigade, a stately and imposing slow march officially attributed as anonymous but thought likely to be the work of G J Miller whilst by way of contrast, Thornburrow’sThe Windsorian has a distinctly jaunty air. Strauss makes something of a surprise appearance in this compilation with his March of the Royal Horse Guards — a refreshing change from his ubiquitous and much played Radetzky March! The Tangier Horse is a splendid march which flowed from the pen of a former DOM, Lieutenant Colonel G E Evans. A J North’s With Wings as Eagles is an impressive salute to the memory of all members of the Household Cavalry who have been killed whilst on operations. In complete contrast to the trumpet calls and marches comes Bach’s Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring and a popular piece of film music — the haunting strains of Gabriels Oboe by Ennio Morricone from ‘The Mission’ which is beautifully and sensitively played by Staff Corporal Mark Redman. The recordings were made in The Chapel, Chelsea Barracks and are fully up to SRC’s usual high standard and the CD booklet comes with detailed notes. There are many rarely recorded items in this compilation so that even the most avid collector of military band CD’s will duplicate very little in their collection and will find a great deal of interest. A notable and fascinating release which can be strongly recommended. Roger Hyslop CDs issued by Specialist Recording Company are available from: Discurio, Unit 3, Faraday Way, St Mary Cray, Kent, BR5 3QW, England tel/fax 01689 879101. You can also order via their website: www.tillystips.com/dis/
ONCE A MARINE
A Life On The Ocean Wave, Plymouth Hoe, The Captain General, The Padstow Lifeboat, Peter Rabbit and Tales of Beatrix Potter, HM Jollies, Adagio for Trumpet, Cockleshell Heroes, Slaughter on Tenth Avenue, On the Quarterdeck, The Shanghai Sailor, Sarie Marais, Kalinka, Comrades in Arms, The Hounds of Spring, Once a Marine
The Royal Marines Association Concert Band (Clovelly CLCD15507) 66:00
The Royal Marines Association Concert Band is an entirely new ensemble formed in June 2006 in response to demand from retired members of the band service. This is their first CD and their versatility and accomplishment is amply demonstrated by the diverse range in style and mood of music included in this compilation, which they tackle with consistent commitment and whole hearted enthusiasm. There’s a fine selection of marches including several by Kenneth J Alford with On the Quarter Deck and HM Jollies and Sir Vivian Dunn with The Captain General and possibly his most popular and arguably one of his finest scores Cockleshell Heroes. Dunn’s march has a lively catchy first section followed by an appropriately poignant trio tune which suitably reflects the growingly somber mood in the latter part of the film. There is also a fine new march Comrades in Arms which has flowed from the pen of the band’s DOM Captain Whealing whilst Ray Woodfield’s Once a Marinewas written especially for the Royal Marines Association and makes clever use of two tunes intimately associated with the Corps namely A Life on the Ocean Wave and Sarais Marais. A good deal more music is featured here other than marches including two well chosen overtures. Alfred Reeds’ The Hounds of Spring is an easily likable piece, new to me, whilst the more familiar strains of the nautical overture by John Ansell, Plymouth Hoe, is a wonderfully invigorating piece based on several traditional tunes — the listener envisions a wonderful whiff of salt laden sea breezes which never fails to raise one’s spirits. A welcome item on this disc is the excerpt from Tales of Beatrix Potter and Slaughter on Tenth Avenue which gives the band a chance to demonstrate their big band credentials. Finally, and by no means least, there are two solo spots featuring members of the band. Jon Yates, principal trumpet, plays his own composition Adagio for Trumpet, an attractively lyrical and heartfelt piece whilst Steve Tanner takes centre stage with Donald Bridgers’ The Shanghai Sailor. This is an impressive debut disc with fine and consistently good wind playing throughout which, given the pedigree of this group of musicians, is hardly surprising. The recording sessions were held at the Clovelly St Edmund’s Studios, Dover and the resultant sound, if a trifle dryish, is very good. Roger Hyslop
For information on how to purchase this CD visit Clovelly at www.clovellyrecordings.com or telephone: 01304239356. This CD is also available from the RMA Concert Band c/o RMA Central Office, Whale Island, Portsmouth, PO2 8ER. The CD costs £12 incl P&P and cheques should be made payable to The RMA Band Fund.
A RIFLES BANDSTAND
Royal Windsor, Orpheus in the Underworld Overture, The Westminster Waltz, The Lines of Torres Vedra, The Watermill, Cornish Through and Through, Light Serenade, Lucy Long, Shepherd’s Hey, Scottish Dances, Mountain Song, Robbin’ Harry, High on a Hill, Rifles Review, Evening Hymn and Sunset, Mechanized Infantry
The Bands and the Bugles of the Rifles (Specialist Recording Company, SRC126) 78:00. The Band of the Rifles was formed in February 2007 and this release is particularly noteworthy as it is the band’s debut CD. The programme has plenty of contrast and interest, particularly for readers of this journal, with a selection which has certainly not ignored the area of British light music. There are two classics of this genre Westminster Waltz, sounding surprisingly effective in a wind band transcription and The Watermill beautifully played as an oboe solo. Two further solo spots on this disc are worthy of comment, a very accomplished bassoonist with Lucy Long and a xylophone impressively propelsRobbin’ Harry at a breathtaking speed. The concert opens with plenty of pomp and splendour with Frederic Bayco’s march Royal Windsor whilst the familiar Offenbach overture which follows combines sensitivity and exhilaration to satisfying effect. The two bugle marches included are calculated to both raise your rafters and annoy the neighbours if played at too high a volume! The recordings were made in Romsey Abbey, Hampshire and the resulting sound quality fully measures up to SRC’s consistently high standard. I recommend this to all admirers of fine wind band playing with confidence.
Roger Hyslop
Soundtracks
"SUMMER SONG"
Overture, Just Around the Corner, My Darling Karolka, Once a Year is Not Enough, Cotton Tail, No-one Told Me, Murphy’s Pig, One Boy Sends You a Rose, Deep Blue Evening, I’ll Be Remembering and more
Original London Cast (Sepia Records, 1086) 78:00
This musical, from 1956, was penned by Anton Dvorak with lyrics supplied by Eric Maschwitz. Described as ‘a story of the new world’ this recording features a very appealing vocal performance by British actress and singer Sally Ann Howes and the male lead is taken by David Hughes. Orchestrations are by Ronald Hanmer and the orchestra is under the direction of Alexander Faris. The highlight of this CD is the Summer Song Selection which is performed by the Melachrino orchestra conducted by George Melachrino and recorded in April 1956 and lasts for over seven minutes — a real delight! Wally Stott also features in the bonus tracks as backing to three tracks from David Hughes, dating also from 1956, There But for the Grace of God Go I, Love is a Many Splendoured Thing and Two Different Worlds. The sound quality and remastering (by RFS member Robin Cherry) is of the highest quality, as expected by Sepia Records who are one of the lead CD labels in issuing rare and sought after material from the back catalogue. This is very nostalgic and takes you right back to the world of post war musical theatre.
Adam Endacott
"AS LONG AS THEY’RE HAPPY" & "AN ALLIGATOR NAMED DAISY"
You Started Something, Be My Guest, Hokey-Pokey Polka, In Love for the Very First Time, Midnight Madness and bonus tracks including A Kiss and a Cuddle, I Feel so Mmm, Close Your Eyes, What More Can I Do and many more
Original film soundtracks (Sepia Records 1092) 76:00
Two classic British film soundtracks are given new life on this very likable and enterprising CD. The main artistes are Jeannie Carson, Jack Buchanan, Jerry Wayne and Diana Dors who all give polished performances in these fun and romantic songs. For both films the musical score and direction is by Stanley Black with the Pinewood Studio Orchestra and his usual excellence shines through with lush orchestral links and arrangements which comes into its own in the reprise of I Don’t Know Whether to Laugh or to Cry Over You with Jack Buchanan. A sensational Diana Dors single (A Kiss and a Cuddle/I Feel So Mmm) from 1953 is included in the bonus tracks with the orchestra conducted by Frank Cordell. Other orchestras featured in the bonus tracks with Jeannie Carson are Reg Owen and Geoff Love. Wally Stott makes an appearance with Jerry Wayne for Lassoo and What More Can I dorecorded in 1953. I thoroughly recommend this CD which is a joy from start to finish. Remastering is again by Robin Cherry and of excellent quality.
Adam Endacott
Vocal
MOMENTO
Momento, Bring Back the Love, Close to You, Os Novos Yorkinos, Azul, Cacado, Night and Day, Tranquillo, Um Segundo, Cade Voce, Words
Bebel Gilberto (V2, VVR1044522) 42:37
The sweet summer sounds of her previous albums are still there but there are a few moments that do not gel! If the vibe of the first tracks had been maintained, then this outing could have topped her earlier recordings. Close to You is Bebel’s own composition (not the one made famous by The Carpenters). An intriguing rhythm is employed rivalling the beat of Bring Back the Love which uses a couple of instruments that I have never heard before — Repique and Gongue — intoxicating sounds! In fact, most tracks employ instruments new to me creating music that is decidedly different. I am not sure what Cole Porter would have thought of this version of his classic song Night and Day! The sax player has a stab at emulating Stan Getz but Bebel’s vocalising seems to lose the way! Tranquillois a live track and sounds like just a filler.
Paul Clatworthy
BEVERLY SILLS: PLAISIR D’AMOUR. Plaisir d’amour; Parlez-moi d’amour; Les filles de Cadiz; Plus 6 Other Songs in French and 3 Songs In Spanish. 48.26 Beverly Sills with Andre Kostelanetz and his Orchestra Sony Classical SMK 60576. For those who never heard her sing even on records, Beverly Sills was a most remarkable artist. Along with her technical mastery of her craft was a deep humanity and a heart breaking poignancy to her way of performing, no doubt coming from her triumphing over personal tragedies. The body of this CD comes from a pair of 1975 sessions when Sills began working with Andre Kostelanetz who provided all of these arrangements himself. Kostelanetz’s earlier experience as a vocal coach at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City pays off wonderfully with great understanding of his vocalist. With such a charming and soothing set of songs, it’s difficult to find favorites. A personal favorite is "La filles des cadix" which is the original chart written Lily Pons, Andre’s former wife. The programme is rounded off with three songs sung in Spanish and never before released in any format. Of particular interest in this group is a stellar performance of "Estrellita" which is sung very movingly by Sills. The orchestra performing behind Beverly Sills is the New York Philharmonic which adds to the high polish of the accompanying orchestra. This is without a doubt a worthwhile release spotlighting one of the most beloved of all opera stars, Beverly Sills who artistry is being rediscovered anew thanks to many releases of her great performances. Richard Jessen
JESSIE MATTHEWS (1907-1981): A Centenary Celebration 2CD compilation from 78s, film soundtracks and private tapes AVID AMSC 907. This enjoyable collection is the brainchild of veteran LP and CD compiler Hugh Palmer, and he has certainly assembled some rare and fascinating tracks in this well-deserved tribute to a great star of the 1930s. Over 50 of the best-known songs associated with Jessie Matthews are included, so it is highly unlikely that you will not discover your own personal favourites such as Over My Shoulder, Dancing on the Ceiling, When You’ve Got a Little Springtime in your Heart etc. From 1926, through to some private recordings from the late 1970s, we can enjoy her performances of popular songs plus selections from films such as "Out Of The Blue", "One Dam Thing After Another", "The Good Companions", "Evergreen", "It’s Love Again", "Gangway" and others. Among the musicians accompanying Jessie are Leslie Hutchinson (‘Hutch’), Carroll Gibbons, Louis Levy, Jay Wilbur, Fred Hartley, Peter Yorke, Debroy Somers, Bob Busby and Harold Geller. It would be silly to deny that this style of music now seems dated, but surely that is part of its charm. For those who remember how great Jessie Matthews was, and would like a lovingly-compiled souvenir of her career, this is the perfect answer. David Ades
Compilations
COMIC CUTS
Various artistes (Sounds of Yesteryear, DSOY732) 105:00. Grandad is seething in the corner, muttering under his breath, rubbish! It is his birthday party and the youngsters are playing the like of the Arctic Monkeys. Time to put a smile to his face by digging out this novel double CD — 36 tracks by bands of the 1930s. Billy Cotton, Carroll Gibbons, Jack Payne, Jack Hylton, Ambrose, Henry Hall and many others feature and all tracks concentrate on the humorous. I am a Grandad but only knew a few of the titles, three of which I did not know, The Pig Got Up and Slowly Walked Away, Airman! Airman! and What Can You Give a Nudist for Their Birthday, giving you some idea of the content. You also get the well known Laughing Policeman, I Like Bananas, Chinese Laundry Blues and many others well aired in the past on the Billy Cotton Band Show and Family Favourites. A fun collection for all the family, especially if those listening are well oiled!
Paul Clatworthy
CD round-up: some new releases noted by Wilfred Askew
HURRAH FOR MALCOLM ARNOLD
The Belles of St Trinian’s Prelude (Conducted by Muir Mathieson), The Sound Barrier —A Rhapsody For Orchestra Op 38 (conducted by the composer), The Captain’s Paradise: Postcard From the Med (MM), Trapeze: Prelude, Lola’s Theme, Juke Box, Mike and Lola’s Love Theme (MM), Hobson’s Choice Overture (MM), Beckus the Dandipratt — Overture for Orchestra Op 5, English Dances Op 27 & Op 33 (Conducted by Sir Adrian Boult), A Grand Grand Overture for Orchestra (conducted by the composer)
(Cherry Red ACMEM95) 54:12
ROY BUDD — BLUE BUDD
Original 1967-70 Pye recordings. Tracks include: Pick Yourself Up, Girl Talk, I’ll Remember April, On a Clear Day, Pavanne, Call Me, Bye Bye Blues etc
(Cherry Red ACMEM96) 63:52
SPIRAL/SOMETIMES — THE HARRY ROCHE CONSTELLATION
Two original 1973 Pye recordings. Tracks include: Rhapsody in Blue, Pinball Wizard, You Are the Sunshine of My Life, Watch What Happens, You’ve Got Possibilities, Carnaby Chick, My Romance, That’s Living etc
(Cherry Red ACMEM100) 79:54
PORTS OF PARADISE
Original Capitol recording from 1960 of instruments and voices by Alfred Newman and Ken Darby. Tracks include The Enchanted Sea, Whispering Wind, Forever More etc
(EMI Special Markets (US) 3670162) 39:03
CRIME SCENE USA: CLASSIC FILM NOIR THEMES
Music by Elmer Bernstein, Adolph Deutsch, Frank DeVol, David Raksin, Miklos Rozsa, Max Steiner, Franz Waxman and more. Tracks include: Street Scene, The Letter, High Sierra, Double Indemnity, Key Largo, The Big Heat, Strangers on a Train, Born to Kill etc.
(Giant Steps GSCR019) 63:47
HORACE HEIDT AND HIS MUSICAL KNIGHTS
Double CD. Tracks include: I’ll Love You in My Dreams, Clarinet Polka, I’ll Get By, South of the Border, Piggy Wiggy Woo, It’s a Blue World, The Singing Hills, Toy Piano Jump, Where or When, Because of You, The Hut Sut Song etc.
(Jasmine JASCD455) 139:32
DVD’s
ALMA COGAN — HER FABULOUS STORY
(Odeon, ODNM 009) 107:00 (Region 0)
The Alma Cogan story has been told in many different ways over the years and the main part of this DVD contains an excellent testimony in a documentary format about her all too short opportunity to entertain in her own unique way. It is very well produced and contains many personal contributions from those fortunate to have experienced the charm of knowing and working closely with her. Like most well thought out material available in DVD format there are some important extras. Very important in this case, for the producers have sought out two quite revealing Hammer cinema film shorts by the Eric Winstone band of the mid 1950’s, on which Alma is the main guest artist. The use of shorts by a great variety of performers were by no means new of course, but perhaps by the 1950’s peoples expectations were higher. A few enterprising film companies made up for this by producing what was in effect a completely self contained film version of the kind of show one may have still expected to find on the bigger variety stages of the time. Enter Hammer films who probably produced the best example of this craft in a series of band shows ranging from performers such as Cyril Stapleton, Johnny Dankworth, Edmundo Ros and, as found here, Eric Winstone. Our 21stcentury sophisticated eye will spot the fact that this is a canned series of ‘takes’ rather than a continuously live performance, but to the cinema audiences of the mid 1950’s it was often thrilling to be able to experience on the large screen (and in colour) performances of radio, television and record stars of the time. The first of the two shorts is "The Eric Winstone Bandshow" which is immediately interesting; in that Eric’s theme tune Stagecoach is performed over the opening credits using strings. The continuity in this film is created by the old film trick of captioned book page turning and the first number is Fanfare Boogie with all its customary excitement as an opener. Trumpeter Kenny Baker makes a centre stage appearance next on What Could Be More Beautiful followed by a sumptuous credited Wally Stott arrangement of These Foolish Things sung by Alma. Brian Fahey’s arrangement of Skyliner comes next followed by an intriguing Latin American medley performed by the George Mitchell singers and extras. Alma then returns for another Stott arrangement; this time it’s the ‘poppy’ Got’n Idea including some amusing 1950’s role playing by Mr Winstone. Opus one Mambo (another Stott arrangement) is up next featuring four uncredited percussionists and this first show finishes with another showcase including a string section — namely the Winstone arr. Stott titleHeartbreak. The second film short "Eric Winstone’s Stagecoach" is all linked ‘in vision’ by Eric himself and after the theme he welcomes us and incorrectly announces the first Brian Fahey number Curtain Call as Curtain Up! Alma puts in her first appearance this time round with another ‘poppy’ number,The Sycamore Tree and next is the Ray Ellington quartet being as ‘tongue in cheeky’ as ever on The Three Bears assisted by the lovely Marion Ryan, who takes us through a great typical piece of 1950’s band and stage action, one part of which is rather awkwardly mis-cast using Winstone as the fall guy but Marion saves the day though! Reg Owen’s gorgeous Slow Train Blues comes next and as during most of these two film shorts, the camera work accurately follows solos. (She Wore) A Little Jacket of Blue may not be a number which one may expect Alma to tackle, but here she is again doing just that with great aplomb followed by something that I feel could have been better thought out — an Irish sketch. This is all done in an ‘Irish cor blimey’ type of style that seems corny and wooden by any standards; maybe better performed live on stage but doesn’t do it for me here! To close this short there is something for everyone. Firstly, At the Woodchoppers Ball with some lovely section, unison and as always good camera work, then the entire cast rousingly sees us out with Riding on a Rainbow followed by a reprise of the same by the band. I’ve checked quite closely and it’s interesting to note that several of the titles mentioned above have also been recorded commercially by the Winstone band on Polygon or Pye-Nixa. Only one, Opus One Mambo, appears to use a dub of that issue. So, a brilliant DVD in my opinion; sound quality lets things down a bit in parts where I suspect over processing of film and noise removal at the expense of music quality. However, you’ll probably forget all that as you get wrapped up in the overall presentation. On the one hand this is a piece of pure 1950’s visual kitsch exotica; on the other, a wonderful historical document of just one very small part of popular music history showing how it used to be. Go, buy and enjoy!
Philip Farlow
Postscripts to previous reviews
British Light Music Miniatures – Vintage TV & Radio Classics (Naxos 8.570332 - JIM172)
Those who, like me, have become ‘hooked’ on the music of Montague Phillips will be pleased to learn that that this CD contains probably the first ever recordings of the three Dance Revels; these were not included on either of the Vocalion CDs, probably due to lack of space. It’s worth the asking price for these alone! Do I detect definite echoes of Haydn Wood’s Joyousness in number three? This CD also contains Non Stop by John Malcolm; I have seen a review in another publication which claims that this piece was used as a signature tune for ITV’s News At Ten. This is not the case – the piece was used for many years by ITN well before the advent of News At Ten, which used for its signature tune part of Johnny Pearson’s lengthy composition The Awakening; this is still employed in an amended form to this day.
Box Of Delights (Lyrita SRCD214 - JIM172)
Edmund Whitehouse mentioned the ‘…rarely heard complete Fancy Dress Suite of Cecil Armstrong Gibbs’, but once again I’m pretty certain that this is the first time that the whole work (not just Dusk) has appeared on any sort of recording. It is interesting to hear this composer’s most famous tune in the context of the whole suite, and the other movements are worth getting to know too!
English String Miniatures – Volume 5 (Naxos 8557752 –JIM 169)
This CD of new recordings contains another great favourite of mine, the Folk Song And Fiddle Danceby Percy Fletcher. Although this work has been recorded a couple of times before, it’s the first time that the Folk Song has appeared in full. This piece consists of a theme, followed by a number of variations, but on previous occasions one of the latter (a jig variation in the major) has been left out, presumably because there was insufficient space on a 78 rpm disc. Philip Lane has now remedied this situation, and it’s good to hear the whole piece as its composer intended. Tony Clayden
Finally some more new CDs
A listing here does not preclude the possibility of a full review in a future issue
TED HEATH: Big Band Themes Remembered Volumes 1 & 2 Vocalion CDLK 4345
EDMUNDO ROS: Calypso & Calypso Man Vocalion CDLK 4348
MAREK WEBER AND HIS ORCHESTRA: Musicale Vocalion CDEA 6130
ROBERTO INGLEZ: From the Savoy Hotel, London Volume 3 Vocalion CDEA 6131
THE STEPHEN FOSTER COLLECTION 2CD set which includes six tracks from the Decca LP by theRobert Farnon Octet (the complete LP is included on the Vocalion CD "Songs of Britain" CDLK 4174). Other featured artists include Bing Crosby, Sammy Kaye, Al Jolson, Frank Luther and the Andre Kostelanetz Orchestra. Jasmine JASCD 454
FRANKIE CARLE: Silver and Gold 2CD set Jasmine JASCD 462
DENNIS DAY: Serenade 2CD set Jasmine JASCD 662
SALUTING THE STARS 2CD collection featuring American stars of the 1940s and 1950s, such as Perry Como,Nat King Cole, Eddie Fisher, Andrews Sisters, Henri Rene, Sauter-Finegan Orchestra, Dinah Shore and many more. Jasmine JASCD 665
RICHARD ARNELL Symphonies 4 & 5 Royal Scottish National Orchestra conducted by Martin Yates. Dutton Epoch CDLX7194.
SID PHILLIPS BAND ‘Any Old Iron’ Bargain CD to celebrate his centenary year. Dutton CDVS1949.
JACK HYLTON BAND Volume 6 ‘Boomps-a-Daisy’ Vocalion CDEA6128.
PAUL WHITEMAN ORCHESTRA ‘If I Had a Talking Picture of You’ Vocalion CDEA6129.
An apology
In the last issue of JIM (172), the Bing Crosby CD ‘Good and Rare’ was featured. This was incorrectly credited to Sunflower Records. This CD and its sequel, ‘Good and Rare Volume Two’ have been produced by Sepia Records and both CDs feature recording from the 1940s and 50s, which have not been released on CD before. Combined, there are a total of 53 tracks ranging from The Big Movie Sky in the Show to What a Little Moonlight Can Do. The correct catalogue numbers for these discs are ‘Good and Rare’ (Sepia 1071) and volume two (Sepia 1091) Full details on these CDs, and more, can be found on Sepia Records website, www.sepiarecords.com
Orchestral
FOUR DECADES OF LIGHT MUSIC – VOLUMES ONE AND TWO
Various artists (GUILD, GLCD 5134 and GLCD 5135) Full tracklistings of all Guild Light Music CDs can be accessed via the link on our home page, or by visiting Guild Music [this company and many other record labels can be found on our links page]. You can also visit the Light Music CDs page on this website.
These two new releases contain a wealth of different styles and sounds, and it becomes increasingly clear just how far compositions, arrangements and orchestras evolved during those four decades. The first volume contains the earliest tracks to appear on any Guild issue, dating from 1926. This is a sub-genre which has not been particularly prominent as far as the RFS is concerned, although of course, it was the core interest of the erstwhile Vintage Light Music Society. Whilst some of the tracks are well known such as Parade of the Tin Soldiers (Jessel), Teddy Bears’ Picnic (Bratton) andEstudiantina (Waldteufel), I believe there are quite a number making their CD debut. There’s a wonderful Percy Fletcher piece entitled Pearl O’Mine – Lyrical Melody and Charles Orth’s In a Clock Store; this is a superb novelty number with all sorts of effects which must have kept several percussionists busy! Following the success of Eduard Kűnneke’s Overture to his Dance Suite (GLCD 5106), this time another movement – Blues – has been included. From a 1937 Bosworth library recording, Frog King’s Parade (Kronberger; Marriott) makes a surprising, though welcome, second appearance on Guild, but this is very different from the arrangement to be found on the "Bandstand in the Park" CD. Pieces like Flapperette (Greer) and Lustspiel – Overture (Keler-Bela) have a wonderful ‘period’ feel to them, as does The Selfish Giant of Eric Coates, an early composition which was heavily influenced by the syncopated style of contemporary popular music of the time. I would also single out for special mention In A Merry Mood (Harringer), Raindrops – Pizzicati for Strings (T de la Riviera) and Montague Ewing’s Dancing Clock – timepieces were obviously an inspiration to light music composers! The whole programme is well assembled and highly enjoyable, more so with each listening. It’s from an era about which I am personally very keen to learn more, and I hope that there is further material available which could be incorporated into future releases.
Like the song What a Difference a Day Made, it’s extraordinary what a difference a few years made as far as our kind of music is concerned! Volume two covers the 1940s and 1950s and there is often a markedly different character to the compositions and indeed the orchestral performances. As with many other areas of creative activity, light music post-WWII seems to reflect a new order, with pieces like March For Americans (Grofé) and World Of Tomorrow (Beaver) embracing this. A rather surprising inclusion is the more-than-ubiquitous Charles Williams composition The Old Clockmaker. It’s good to hear Charles Shadwell’s signature tune Down with the Curtain again. As a child, I was taken on several occasions to Tom Arnold’s Circus at Harringay, in North London, where CS and his orchestra were the ‘resident band’ - and this piece always introduced the proceedings. Considering that, for many, the 1940s are the definitive era of light music; it’s a tad disappointing that we are offered a mere ten tracks, compared with seventeen for the 1950s selection. This may be because there is a great deal of 1940s material already available on previous Guild issues, whilst advantage can now be taken to include more recordings from the middle, and late, 1950s, as we approach 2008. I have remarked before that the music of this latter era (particularly from about 1953/54 onwards) is rather more ‘glossy’, more sophisticated, than its predecessors, and this is very evident in the programme presented here. Although several of the titles will be familiar, they are to be heard in wonderful arrangements of the highest quality; particularly worthy of mention are Song Of India(Rimsky-Korsakov) given the Laurie Johnson treatment, Wally Stott’s reading of the Theme from Spellbound (Rozsa) and Werner Műller with Forty Second Street (Warren) . With the orchestras of Geraldo, Farnon, Chacksfield, Stanley Black, Ray Martin, David Carroll, Roger Roger and more, this CD is yet another worthy addition to the Guild series.
Tony Clayden
LIGHT MUSIC FOR ALL SEASONS
Various artists (GUILD, GLCD 5138)
The seasons have provided inspiration for many light music composers over the years and I’m sure that there are dozens more season-related pieces than the 24 represented here. The programme is arranged chronologically (from a Northern Hemisphere perspective) starting with April in Paris(Vernon Duke) and continuing with several spring compositions. May, June and summer themes follow, through Autumn, September, (and even November) and so on, finishing up with George Melachrino’s A Christmas Fantasy. Most of the tracks are taken from commercial recordings, although there are some from the libraries of Paxton, Bosworth, Chappell and Boosey and Hawkes. The performing orchestras include those of Michel Legrand, Gordon Jenkins, Sidney Torch, Dolf van der Linden and his Metropole Orchestra, Ron Goodwin and Richard Hayman. There’s a very characteristic Robert Farnon arrangement of One Morning in May (Schertzinger) and a similarly distinctive version of Indian Summer (Victor Herbert) by George Melachrino and played by his strings. A slight departure from the usual is Ethel Smith’s version of Sleigh Ride (Leroy Anderson), played on the Hammond organ as only she could, and accompanied by a small ensemble. This is a very thoughtfully assembled and extremely enjoyable programme. It’s a definite ‘must-have’ for all those who love the kind of music which was the very backbone of the BBC Light Programme and BBC Radio 2 in its early days.
Tony Clayden
MUSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE – VOLUME 1
Various artists (GUILD, GLCD 5139)
In distinct contrast to the various ‘themed’ CDs in the Guild series, this new compilation brings together a wonderful array of pieces which do not necessarily fit into neat categories, but sets out to ‘offer a wide variety of styles and ensembles and hopefully spring a few surprises along the way’. The recordings span a period of nearly 25 years, from a Reginald King track of 1932- Roses At Dawning (Kahn, Moret), to three 1956 recordings, including the eponymous Kaleidoscope(Schreckenberger) from a FD&H library disc. As is so often the case, several of the items evoke a reaction of ‘I haven’t heard that for years’ – accompanied by a real ‘buzz ’! To single out just a few, I would mention Ballet of Madeira (Gregori, Freitas), Fiesta (Jack Coles), Policeman’s Holiday (Ewing) and Sailor’s Holiday (Martell). There are some lovely ‘vintage’ pieces like Cockney Girl (Melachrino),In Happy Mood (Mackey), Legend (Crowdson) and Keep Moving (Charrosin). A section entitled Seven Famous BBC Orchestras includes the two alternate versions of Oranges and Lemons, which were used to open the Light Programme every morning, and the selection closes appropriately with Billy Cotton’s ‘playout’ music – Legion Patrol (Simpson). I have played this CD so many times already that had it been a record, it would probably be beginning to wear out! Hugely enjoyable and highly recommended. With the next release the Guild series will reach the ‘Big Four-O’ – an amazing and unparalleled achievement on the part of David Ades, Alan Bunting, and the enterprising company behind the whole project – Guild GmbH of Switzerland.
Tony Clayden
BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC PREMIERES Volume 4
Ernest Tomlinson – music from "Aladdin"; John Fox – A Surrey Rhapsody; Jim Cooke – Concert Jig; Phillip Lord – Nautical Overture; Richard Valery – The Magic Carpet; Lionel Sainsbury – Cuban Dance No. 2; Adam Saunders - Overture: Pirates Ahoy!; Carey Blyton – Suite: The Golden Road to Samarkand; Peter Flinn – Cinema Suite.
Royal Ballet Sinfonia Conducted by Gavin Sutherland and Paul Murphy (Dutton Epoch CDLX 7190) 77:06 mins.
The music in this collection covers a wide range of styles, with the earliest piece dating from 1940 and the latest 2006. Ernest Tomlinson was certainly on form back in 1974 when he composed "Aladdin", and it is good to have three Jewel Dances plus Aladdin’s Dance of Joy and Young Man In Love. John Fox loves the county of Surrey – and especially the area around Banstead – where he has lived for many years, and his beautiful Surrey Rhapsody is his vision of a wonderful part of the world. From the dawn chorus at the opening, to the excitement of Epsom racecourse (and even a traffic jam on the M 25) we are transported musically around one of the loveliest parts of southern England. John is a master of melody and orchestration, and this work is an important addition to the light music repertoire of the 21st century. If John represents the older school of composers (we celebrated his 80th birthday with him at an RFS London meeting in 2004), then Adam Saunders is certainly an up-and-coming writer who promises to keep the fine traditions going in future years. His contribution is a lively piece Pirates Ahoy! which should appeal to concert promoters as a lively opener. The other varied works on this CD offer an interesting collection which will possibly make their composers better-known. Now that the Sanctuary White Line series has disappeared, we are fortunate that Michael Dutton is willing to continue supporting new light music on his Epoch label, and he deserves the support of us all. David Ades
LIGHT MUSIC WHILE YOU WORK VOLUME TWO
Various artists (GUILD, GLCD 5137)
It is encouraging to note that the success of ‘Light Music While You Work Volume One’ has prompted another selection of delights which, far from being a pale imitation of the first album, is even better! When reviewing the previous CD, I suggested that the London Coliseum Orchestra and the orchestra of Harold Collins, Wynford Reynolds and David Java should be included next time – and sure enough they are all here, together with old friends like Ronnie Munro, Richard Crean, Harry Fryer and Harry Davidson. Perhaps I should point out that Wynford Reynolds (no relation!) was appointed Music While You Work organiser late in 1941, over a year after the radio programme’s inception and contrary to suggestions in the booklet notes, he did not conceive the original idea for the programme. The show came about as a result of a directive from the War Office, who felt that a programme of uninterrupted and tuneful music would boost morale in industry. Although this CD is primarily of light music, the dance music aspect of the series is represented by several Phil Green recordings and one by Reg Pursglove – although Raymond Scott’s excellent Toy Trumpet was often heard played by light orchestras and military bands. Indeed I heard it on a park bandstand quite recently! I am told that when it comes to reviews, I have a reputation for being somewhat ‘picky’. Well, if that is the case, I offer no apologies as I think that a reviewer should give a truthful opinion. It is true that with volume one, I expressed some reservations relating to programme building, but on this occasion there is absolutely nothing to criticise. The programme has been built with great care and is full of contrast – a lovely mixture of marches, waltzes, selections and novelties. I like the way that Calling All Workers(this time it’s the Eric Coates version) has been tailored in such a way that the recording sounds almost like an extended MWYW broadcast. Indeed the opening signature tune has been effectively ‘clipped’ at the end so as to create a natural segue into Marche Lorraine. I think that my favourite item on the disc is Castles in Spain, a super piece which has probably not been performed in decades. It is customary, when reviewing Guild Records, to pay tribute to Alan Bunting for his fine restoration work, but as this goes without saying, I won’t mention it!
Brian Reynolds
MARCHING AND WALTZING
Various artists (GUILD, GLCD 5136)
‘Marching and Waltzing’ was another famous radio programme from the golden years of radio. It started during the war, continuing intermittently until 1984. It soon developed into a studio production featuring an orchestra to play the waltzes – for many years Wynford Reynolds’ Raeburn Orchestra, alternating with a brass or military band to play the marches. I think that it should be stated at the outset that whilst this CD is inspired by the radio series, it is not intended to replicate it. There are no bands – everything is played orchestrally by some of the finest including Ron Goodwin, Sidney Torch, Cyril Stapleton and a certain Robert Farnon. One surprise inclusion is dance band leader Lou Preager, but on this recording fronting a large concert orchestra. I found this recording quite delightful and in some ways more interesting than the radio series with its broader range of music, particularly amongst the marches. However there is one point in the accompanying notes which is inaccurate. ‘Marching and Waltzing’ was actually probably the only radio series to use two signature tunes and shortened versions of King Cotton and Vienna Blood opened and closed every programme. This is an excellent selection of tunes, with the original recordings as always beautifully restored by Alan Bunting. It has to be one of Guild’s best yet!
Brian Reynolds
MUSIC WHILE YOU WORK VOLUME 2
Calling All Workers, In the Arena, The Last Tango, Songs of Old England, Show Boat, A Kiss in the Dark, Parade of the Pirates, Temptation Rag, Wood Nymphs, Careless Cuckoo, Linger Awhile, Memories of the Early Twenties, Salad Days, Friml in the Ballroom, Marigold, Teddy Bears Picnic, Tick of the Clock, You Are My Sunshine, Sing-along Medley, Mad About Music, Choristers Waltz, Waldmere March, Lonely Troubadour
Various artists (Frank Bristow, FBCD 166)
This delightful new slice of nostalgia comes superbly remastered and therefore very highly recommended, as one would expect with Brian Reynolds, Brian Stringer and Alan Bunting behind it. You will recognise much of the music but some of it may be unfamiliar which is a good thing. Well done chaps!
Edmund Whitehouse
Frank Bristow CD’s are ONLY available directly from him at 2 Cross Street, Brighton, Victoria 3186, Australia. Tel. 03-9528-3167. Email: Credit cards and Paypal are accepted, but no cheques — details on request. Please visit his website for further details on CDs in his catalogue www.musicfromthepast.com
ANY OLD IRON
Original Dixieland one-step, By Heck, Stumbling, Steppin’ in Society, Is it True What They Say About Dixie?, Johnson Rag and 22 other tracks
Sid Phillips and his band (Vocalion, CDVS1949) 77:14
This CD arrived on a lovely summery morning in August and seemed an ideal accompaniment to match the mood of the day. At only £2.99 (Yes, £2.99!), and to celebrate the 100th anniversary of this most accomplished musician’s birth, it will also make an excellent Christmas stocking filler! I have always had a soft spot for Dixieland music and ‘England’s King of the Clarinet’ was a master of the genre. He recorded more than 200 sides for HMV throughout the 1940s and 1950s, and we have here a selection of tracks made during the years 1951-1956. As well as the likes of The Birth of the Blues, Stardust, Tiger Rag, When the Red Red Robin, Alexander’s Ragtime Band, Wabash Blues and the title tune, there are Sid’s own compositions: The Clarinet Cadenza, Stratton Street Strut, High Jinks and The Jolly Jazzers. As a classical music enthusiast, I was fascinated to read in Oliver Lomax’s very informative booklet notes that in 1946 Sid composed a symphony entitled Symphony Russe, premiered and broadcast afterwards by Sir Adrian Boult.
Peter Burt
Editor: Unless CDs are purchased direct from record shops, please note that postage may be charged on top of the prices quoted in reviews when buying by mail order or the internet.
SULLIVAN
Pineapple Poll, Irish Symphony
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by David Lloyd-Jones (Naxos, 8.570351) 78:26
This is Sullivan, without W.S. Gilbert, which is the way I prefer it. Here we have a marvellous melange of Sullivan’s melodies fashioned into a ballet score by the distinguished Australian conductor Sir Charles Mackerras back in 1951. Rightly does he write in his comprehensive liner notes of "eminently danceable tunes." Sir Arthur was of partly Irish descent and the 35-minute symphony originated from a holiday in Northern Ireland when he was 21. It, too, is very tuneful and approachable. I would think that the whole disc will appeal to quite a number of light music enthusiasts.
Peter Burt
1929-1947 PERFORMANCES
The New Friends of Rhythm (HPCD1086) 76:19
27 intriguing titles, brilliantly remastered, gathering together almost all the groups recordings both commercial and transcription. The group’s cellist and arranger Alan Schulman first started arranging for dance bands coming to the attention of NBC radio, where his group made their debut in 1939. Clever writing and very humorous retitling such as The Barbers Hitch (based on The Marriage of Figaro), Shoot the Schubert to Me Hubert, The Droschky Drag, Coo Dinny Coo are just a few samples. The group consisted of three violins, a viola, cello, bass, guitar, clarinet and a harpist way ahead of her time, Laura Newell. Schulman said "She put in fills I could never have thought of". One critic said "The group is recommended to those who are not adverse to highly arranged parodies of formal music". By 1940, the group had sold 20,000 records and got the title "Toscanini’s Hep Cats". During wartime service, Schulman met Nelson Riddle. Nelson’s later arrangements for Sinatra, Cole and Fitzgerald reflect Schulman’s influence. Schulman’s copyist named him "The classical guy on the jazz bus". Until the CD arrived, I admit that I had never heard of them but the groundbreaking group deserves your attention – you can then enjoy the music that has been circulating in various formats by those who were in the know! Executive Producer, Alastair Robertson deserves plaudits for putting all this delightful music in one package.
Paul Clatworthy
THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS AND OTHER SEASONAL MUSIC FOR ORCHESTRA
Classic Sleighride, A Christmas Overture, The Last Sleep of the Virgin, Overture on French Carols, The Night Before Christmas, Christmas Tree Suite, On the Twelfth Day
BBC Concert Orchestra conducted by Barry Wordsworth (Naxos, 8.570331)
A truly original and magical Christmas record avoiding the predictable and would make an excellent stocking filler. The familiar name of Philip Lane features large, so enjoyment is guaranteed especially the Overture on French Carols. It is Philip’s piece in the style of ‘Peter and the Wolf’ which gives the disc its title with excellent narration from Stephen Fry. The longest piece on this well filled disc is On the Twelfth Day where the orchestra is joined by the BBC singers and written by film composer Doreen Carwithen. The only work with which I was familiar is The Last Sleep of the Virgin which receives a fine performance from soloist Matthew Lee on cello. All in all a thoroughly fresh and entertaining disc featuring stylish and idiomatic playing you would expect from this orchestra under the baton of Barry Wordsworth with excellent sound from the Watford Coliseum.
David Daniels
GRIEG AND GOLDMARK
Grieg: Symphony in C Minor, Goldmark: Symphony No 1 in Eb Major (Rustic Wedding) Op26
Bergen Symphony Orchestra conducted by Karsten Andersen/Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Jesus Lopez-Cobos (Decca Eloquence, 4768743) 80:00
Reviews of recordings of symphonies don’t often appear in the columns of Keeping Track but this release of material emanating from the early 1980s is particularly valuable in featuring the first ever commercial recording of Grieg’s youthful Symphony in C Minor, composed mainly at the promptings of the Danish composer Niels W Gade and completed in 1864. The piece received several performances before Grieg subsequently set aside the score with the injunction that it ‘must never be performed’. After his death, it was lodged in the Bergen Public Library and it wasn’t until 1981 that this institution agreed to release the orchestral score and Decca subsequently recorded the symphony with Grieg’s own orchestra. Grieg’s critical judgement of the works worth seems to be have been unduly harsh since it undoubtedly possesses genuine stature and breath and memorable themes all attractively orchestrated and well worth more than an occasional airing.
What makes this disc an even more desirable acquisition is the inclusion of Goldmark’s adorableRustic Wedding Symphony simply brimming over with heart warming melodies. The structure is perhaps more closely related to a suite rather than a symphony with descriptive titles to individual movements such as Bridal Song, Serenade and the rapturous In the Garden; this could easily come within the compass of ‘quality light music’. Both symphonies receive exemplary performances and the recording retails for £5. Well worth investigating – you will be amply rewarded!
Roger Hyslop
Solo instrumentalists
THE SWINGIN’ BASSOON
I’m Getting Sentimental Over You, Well You Needn’t, Hay Burner, Scrapple from the Apple, Mood Indigo, Summer Samba, Out of Nowhere, St Thomas, I Remember You, Home At Last, A Night in Tunisia
Daniel Smith (Zah, ZZCD9824)
When this arrived for review, I was hoping to find Bob Farnon’s last work Romancing the Phoenix on the disc, but alas it is not there but evidently still awaiting its premiere! Well chosen jazz vehicles, but I am afraid the only part that really swings is the rhythm section which is very little to please jazz enthusiasts! Daniel’s technical ability is wonderful but even his powerful lungs cannot make the bassoon a suitable jazz solo instrument! The slightly mournful sound is far better used as colouring in a bank of woodwind and brass scored by the likes of Farnon and Gil Evans, where it comes into context. A brave but misguided recording which will inspire other bassoon players to match the playing but still sitting into the novelty category.
Paul Clatworthy
THE ESSENTIAL COLLECTION 1954-55
Out of This World, There’s a Small Hotel, You Are Too Beautiful, When Your Lover Has Gone, Low Life, With the Wind and Rain in Your Hair etc
Bob Brookmeyer (AVC887)
Right from the opening track, 9:20 Special, Bob’s flowing solo shows he was a total master of the trombone even this early in his distinguished career. By track nine, on this double CD, the limitations of a small group start to become obvious to me as a big band fan. The playing is excellent by the varied line ups but each number seems to merge. Johnny Green’s Body and Soul changes the pattern but is a little too mournful for me. Bob switches to piano on his own Under the Lilacs and Berlin’sThey Say It’s Wonderful. Seven tracks include a small string section which I believe originally came out under Bud Shank’s name. Players involved include Red Mitchell, John Williams, Jimmy Rowles, Mel Lewis, Bud Shank, Conte Candoli, Zoot Sims and Stan Levy. 34 tracks essential for small group fans but for me Bob’s writing and playing in larger groups is far more rewarding.
Paul Clatworthy
GRIEG ALBUM
Arietta, Norwegian Dance No. 2, Solveig’s Song, Anitra’s Dance, I Love Thee, etc. 27 tracks
Sigmund Groven, harmonica with Norwegian Radio Orchestra and soloists (Grappa GRCD4264) 64:56 mins.
RFS members have had the pleasure of meeting Sigmund at our London meetings, and he is especially remembered from the occasions when he came to the Bonnington Hotel with Tommy Reilly. Sigmund is now regarded as one of the finest exponents of the harmonica, and it is hardly surprising that he should choose the music of his famous fellow countryman for his latest CD. Somehow the often melancholic music of Grieg seems well suited to the harmonica, although it is equally suited to the brighter numbers, such as the perky Anitra’s Dance from ‘Peer Gynt’. Lovers of the harmonica will want to add this to their collection. David Ades
This CD can be purchased direct from Sigmund Groven,PO Box 5167, Majorstua, N0302, Oslo, Norway – email
Keyboard
DIZZY FINGERS
Dizzy Fingers, Where’s That Rainbow?, Sahara, Waltz of the Gypsies, It All Depends On You, Swingin’ Down the Lane, A New Kind of Man with a New Kind of Love for Me, Lucky Day, Jerome Kern medley, Blue Skies, Indian Love Call and more
Piano Rolls selected and played by Philip Legg (Shellwood Productions, SWCD33) 71:24
The Pianola, the forerunner to the modern computerised electronic organ, where an individual can sit and play music like Sparky and His Magic Piano! I recall that a visit to my Aunt and Uncle’s meant I could play their Pianola and one of the secrets of playing this instrument is to be able to pedal your feet at the current speed to keep the music playing at the correct tempo.
Philip Legg on this CD has played all the piano rolls, which he also selected, to perfection. There is a varied selection of tunes to suit all tastes and having been originally played for the rolls to be made by different pianists’ results in varied piano styles. This CD comes with a comprehensive set of notes in the foldout booklet describing all the tunes. If you are looking for a CD purely of piano and no backing – this is the one for you with over an hour of entertainment.
Gillian Endacott
SPORT MODEL ENCORE
Sport Model Encore, On a Spring Note, Colour Scheme, Maple Leaf Hora, Pixie Parade, Black Tulip, Chopins Charleston Dream, Ray Noble medley, Cottontail Rag, Goulash, Joy Jumping, Magia De Ritmi, Foxtrot, Chanuka medley
Alex Hassan (Shellwood Productions, SWCD34) 59:19
This fourteen track CD played by Alex Hassan, an American, takes on the syncopated style similar to Scott Joplin and a complete contrast to the Pianola playing as reviewed previously. Again this is a piano CD without any added backing and Alex has arranged and embellished quite a few of the tunes, with pieces ranging from 1928-1959.
An enjoyable CD to listen to if you champion this style of playing but to anyone who enjoys a relaxing piano CD with contrasting beats and rhythms, then this is not for you. On a Spring Notelooses its appeal through this version for my liking.
Gillian Endacott
Soundtracks
AUTHOR! AUTHOR!
Original film soundtrack (Varese Sarabande, VCL03071062)
I am encroaching on Jeff Hall’s excellent pastures but I could not let this one pass without a mention, as regular readers will know that I am a dedicated fan of Johnny Mandel’s writing! The final score used was written by Dave Grusin, but record producer Nick Redman whilst delving in the vaults, was amazed to find two scores for this film! The second unused score was by Johnny Mandel! This is no reflection however on the quality of the writing as evidently the film’s producers had decided that they had a bit of a ‘Dodo’ and thought a more pop orientated score would increase the audience. I never saw the film or know if it ever saw light of day, all I know is I am more than a little pleased to get both scores! Grusin’s is good but for me Mandel makes the better of the two, intuitively he ushers melody into the soundtrack, sometimes with a tinge of jazz. Every track is a winner focused yet expansive lyricism, distinguished by quality composition. Another surprise for me was that I had heard some of the tantalising music before! A few years ago, Vic Lewis had visited Johnny Mandel in California whilst he was composing the score and had given Vic a taster of the music which he let me hear. I have no doubt Johnny got paid for his work but the thought that this could have languished in a 20th Century Fox music library does not bear thinking about!
Paul Clatworthy
Vocal
SINCERELY YOURS
Disc one: The Coral Years, Disc two: The ABC and Paramount Years
Eydie Gorme (Jasmine, JASCD450) 65:01 and 57:12
Excellent playing time with CD one as very pop orientated and CD two really bringing home the bacon starting on track ten where Eydie’s material is classic vocalising, rivalling the best ballad singers of the era. Backed by the wonderful Don Costa Orchestra on tracks such as I’ll Take Romance, Fine and Dandy, Too Close for Comfort, The Gentleman is a Dope, Be Careful It’s My Heart, Saturday Night is the Loneliest Night of the Week and the tear-jerking Guess Who I Saw Todayand ballads of similar quality Eydie really shows where she belongs – classic tracks! Other backing by Monty Kelly, Dick Jacobs, Neal Hefti, George Gates and Sid Feller make the pop tracks an enjoyable contrast even if some of the lyrics are slightly cringe making! There are enough excellent performances included here to entice new fans to seek out the many other outings she made solo and with her husband Steve Lawrence, many of them arranged by Don Costa (what a team!)
Paul Clatworthy
JUMP, JIVE AN’ WAIL: THE ESSENTIAL
Tracks include: That Old Black Magic, Pennies from Heaven, Sing Sing Sing, Just One of Those Things, Hello Dolly!, Cabaret, Civilization and more
Louis Prima (EMI, 3952662)
Another new hits collection featuring the best solo and collaborative work of the big band and swing musician. Most famously known as the voice of King Louie in Disney’s ‘The Jungle Book’ which is featured here for the first time on a Prima compilation. Not my cup of tea, but if you are a fan of Prima and or would like to add his work to your collection then this may be the one for you.
Adam Endacott
GREATEST HITS
Tracks include: I Am a Cider Drinker, Morning Glory, Combine Harvester and more
The Wurzels (EMI GOLD, 3939022)
What can you say about this release? Certainly not ‘our kind of music’ but if you are a fan of novelty records, then this will add nicely to your collection.
Adam Endacott
THE CAVERN: THE MOST FAMOUS CLUB IN THE WORLD
Tracks include: Apache, Anyone Who Had a Heart, Stand By Me, I Think of You, It’s All Over Now, Go Now and more
Various artistes (EMI)
This three CD set celebrates The Cavern’s 50th anniversary with 50 tracks from artists who have all appeared at the club over the years and can be described as a who’ who of British pop music ranging from The Beatles to Georgie Fame to Arctic Monkeys. Well mastered recordings some of which still sound as fresh today as they did fifty years ago.
Adam Endacott
Compilations
COMIC CUTS
Various artistes (Sounds of Yesteryear, DSOY732) 105:00. Grandad is seething in the corner, muttering under his breath, rubbish! It is his birthday party and the youngsters are playing the like of the Arctic Monkeys. Time to put a smile to his face by digging out this novel double CD — 36 tracks by bands of the 1930s. Billy Cotton, Carroll Gibbons, Jack Payne, Jack Hylton, Ambrose, Henry Hall and many others feature and all tracks concentrate on the humorous. I am a Grandad but only knew a few of the titles, three of which I did not know, The Pig Got Up and Slowly Walked Away, Airman! Airman! and What Can You Give a Nudist for Their Birthday, giving you some idea of the content. You also get the well known Laughing Policeman, I Like Bananas, Chinese Laundry Blues and many others well aired in the past on the Billy Cotton Band Show and Family Favourites. A fun collection for all the family, especially if those listening are well oiled!
Paul Clatworthy
CD round-up by Wilfred Askew
WE LOVE NELSON RIDDLE – NELSON RIDDLE AND HIS ORCHESTRA
Recorded between 1954 and 1956 for Capitol Records. Tracks include: Shadow Waltz, Robin Hood, Could You, All or Nothing At All, Body and Soul, Farmer’s Tango, Port Au Prince, The Deep Blue Seaetc
(Cherry Red ACMEM118) 73:58
LAURIE JOHNSON — YOU’RE NEEDED
Original Pye recordings. Tracks include: Bali Hai, My Favourite Things, It’s a Raggy Waltz, The Donkey Serenade, Lock Up Your Daughters, By Myself, South of the Border etc
(Cherry Red ACMEM112) 58:46
MAESTRO SOPHISTICATE — LEO REISMAN AND HIS ORCHESTRA
Tracks include: You Do Something to Me, Time On My Hands, Night and Day, Poor Butterfly, My Sister and I, Mimi, Love Walked etc. With vocalists such as Lee Wiley, Fred and Adele Astaire, Jack Kitty and Frank Luther – original recordings from 1929-1941.
(Flare, ROYCD244) 76:00
RAY STARITA AND HIS AMBASSADORS BAND – VOLUMES 1 AND 2
Original recordings from 1928-32. Tracks include Spread A Little Happiness, It’s a Habit of Mine, I Call You Sugar, My Love Affair, Just a Crazy Song, Get Happy etc
(Mellotone Mello 012 and 013)
GORDON MACRAE – NEVER TILL NOW
Original Capitol recordings on two CDs. Tracks include: One Misty Morning, How Green Was My Valley, Stranger in Paradise, Last Night, Love’s Old Sweet Song, My Love etc.
(Jasmine, JASCD453) 156:19
MONTAGUE PHILLIPS volume 2 – BBC Concert Orchestra / Gavin Sutherland Festival Overture (‘In Praise of my Country’) op.71, Hillside Melody op.40, Hampton Court op.76*, Phantasy for violin & orchestra op.16, Charles II Overture op.60, In Old Verona: a serenade for strings, In May Time op.38, Empire March op.68). World premiere recordings, except* recorded at The Colosseum, Town Hall, Watford, 3-4 August 2005, Epoch CDLX 7158. Around twelve months ago, Dutton Laboratories released what we must now call ‘Volume 1’ of compositions by Montague Phillips (JIM 159). At a stroke, some shamefully neglected music was rescued from oblivion, and Phillips’ rightful place was firmly established on the British musical ‘map’. That first CD has been widely acclaimed, and its success has prompted Mike Dutton to record this second volume. It was known at the time that there was ‘another suitcase-full’ of works patiently awaiting their turn; that wait has been well worth it! Those familiar with the original volume will have no difficulty in recognising the composer’s ‘musical fingerprints’ e.g. his characteristic melodic ideas, and distinctive use of ascending and descending chromatic ‘runs’. Looking back at my earlier review, I have to say that most of the comments apply equally well here. In common with his close contemporaries Haydn Wood and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Montague Phillips had aspirations to be a ‘serious’ composer, and much of the material falls into that category. In several of the pieces, especially the marches, the spirit of Sir Edward Elgar is never far away, and there are occasional suggestions of Frederick Delius and even Edvard Grieg – (was the allusion to the opening bar of the latter’s Piano Concerto in the middle of the Charles II Overture deliberate or unconscious I wonder?). Phillips was a superb orchestrator, and the manner in which he handles his forces has the assured confidence of a true master craftsman, at times reminiscent of Walton. It is inexplicable that music of such high quality has never before (with one exception) been available to the record-buying public. Playing the CD to a professional musician friend, we both felt that it would be almost impossible to better the superb performances by the BBC Concert Orchestra under Gavin Sutherland. The recording venue has changed, this time being Watford Town Hall, from whence engineer Simon Hancock has achieved a very satisfying sound. The informative sleeve notes are once again by Lewis Foreman and credit is due to Fiona Shelmerdine and Michael Ponder for producing what surely deserves to be another winner – and, once again, to Mike Dutton for his initiative in promoting this fine composer. I believe that there may be yet more to come…! This is a definite ‘must-have’ and gets my personal vote of ‘CD of the year’ for 2005. Tony Clayden
...The most ambitious work here is the 12 minute Phantasy for Violin and Orchestra dating from 1912, revised by the composer in 1947, beautifully and movingly played by Matthew Trusler. A particular highlight for me however is the haunting Hillside Melody in which the composer magically recreates the English countryside complete with bird-calls. The 1924 In May Time suite conveys all the freshness and charm of a perfect spring day. The splendid Empire March resulted from a 1942 BBC Proms commission; its noble and poignant trio returns near the end, emphatically crowned by magnificent full organ. Roger Hyslop Editor: to avoid possible correspondence, "Hillside Melody" is not, strictly speaking, a premiere performance, since the Chappell version is included on the Guild CD "Charles Williams and the Queen’s Hall Light Orchestra" – GLCD5107.
RON GOODWIN & HIS ORCHESTRA – In Concert THE MUSIC OF RICHARD RODGERS: The Carousel Waltz, Some Enchanted Evening, Oklahoma; The Theme from "Love Story"; The Theme from "The Big Country"; The Girl With the Misty Eyes; The Stripper; The Magnificent Seven; The Fool on the Hill; Lancelot and Guinevere; Bridge Over Troubled Water; A TRIBUTE TO HENRY MANCINI: Baby Elephant Walk, Days of Wine and Roses, Charade, Moon River PLAY BACHARACH: Do You Know the Way to San Jose?; Alfie; Wives and Lovers; I’ll Never Fall in Love Again; One Less Bell to Answer; Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head; This Guy’s in Love With You; What the World Needs Now is Love; The Look of Love; I Say a Little Prayer; Walk on By; [They long to be] Close to You (73:19) Vocalion CDLK 4302. Let’s celebrate that Vocalion has begun to reissue material from the much missed Ron Goodwin. The first album on this twofer is a good example of the high quality fare we came to expect from a very nice man who was in the top flight of his profession. It is particularly pleasing to have a modern recording of The Stripper – albeit given a novel arrangement in the style of Holiday for Strings. Another winning track is the shortest: Lennon and McCartney’s Fool, here given expression by rhythmic Latin American strings. Girl and Lancelot are both Goodwin originals. But it is with the second album that Mike Dutton has really scored again, bringing back into circulation another of those "I didn’t ever expect that on CD" releases. All 12 tracks offer something of interest and I immensely enjoyed hearing again Nat Peck’s trombone in the opening number, the French horn of Alan Civil on the haunting One Less Bell, The Look of Love featuring Stan Roderick’s solo flugelhorn, and I Say a Little Prayer with its delectable mix of string pizzicato, flutes and celli. Both albums were recorded in the early 1970s in Columbia’s Studio series – EMI’s answer to Decca’s Phase 4. This disc should be snapped up by Ron’s many admirers in the hope of more to come.Peter Burt
BBC Concert Orchestra / John Wilson. EDWARD GERMAN Symphony No.1 in E minor; Overture – The Tempter; Prelude – Romeo and Juliet; Hamlet – Symphonic Poem; The Willow Song. Recorded at The Colosseum, Town Hall, Watford, 24-25 May 2005, (77:19) Dutton Epoch CDLX 7156. Edward German was one of the premier English composers of his generation, and it is only right that his work should continue to be represented in new recordings. John Wilson is once again conducting the BBC Concert Orchestra in fine performances that should please German’s fans, and also gain the composer some new admirers. David Ades
JOHNNY DOUGLAS – The Railway Children (music from the film). Johnny Douglas and His Orchestra, Lionel Jeffries (narrator) Dulcima DLCD 120 (2 CDs) www.dulcimarecords.com Tel. 01737 812922. The 1970 film of E. Nesbit’s The Railway Children is acknowledged as being one of the finest children’s films ever made. Although it paid remarkable attention to period detail, shot entirely on location, its score by Douglas was deliberately contemporary; consistently tuneful, atmospheric 1970s light orchestral music. The film was noted for its romantic style without wallowing in sentiment, and the music is such. This two-disc set is a well-produced reissue of two EMI LPs, both in stereo; one a selection of music from the film, the other taken directly from the soundtrack with additional narration by director Lionel Jeffries. Peter Edwards
Guild Light Music: BANDSTAND IN THE PARK (GLCD5117) and BURIED TREASURES (GLCD5118) For full tracklistings please see JIM 166 pages 47 & 49. I’ve always enjoyed brass and military band music. A Salvation Army band regularly used to play in the middle of our North London street in those post WWII traffic-free days, and if our local park was hosting a band I would remain rooted to the spot and my parents would have the greatest difficulty in dragging me away! Of course, bands also made frequent appearances on the old Light Programme and amazingly still feature in the schedules of Radio 2. Fittingly, therefore, BANDSTAND IN THE PARK opens with the signature tune ofListen To The Band, although sadly this Lionel Monckton composition is no longer employed in its rightful role. (What kind of muddle-headed thinking within the BBC decreed several years ago that all sig. tunes were a no-no?) It will come as a surprise to many to learn that the BBC had an in-house Military Band from the earliest days of 2LO – the Corporation even employed its own staff arranger – and this operated until 1943. Although Brass and Military bands are very different breeds, the two types sit well together on this hugely enjoyable CD. There is a good mixture of marches, Light-Classical and Light Music pieces in recordings spanning the years 1929-1954 and this is another worthy addition to the GUILD series which should appeal to all band enthusiasts. I must particularly mention David Ades’ very comprehensive sleeve notes, on both the above CD and BURIED TREASURES. The ‘mission statement’ of the latter is twofold; firstly to reveal long-forgotten musical gems, and secondly to make available previously unknown compositions by leading writers. Unlike many of the recent GUILD releases which have a very definite ‘theme’ running through their programmes, this new release is, perforce, a rather more random collection of pieces. It is particularly good to hear again Valse Serenade – yet another sig. tune. I was often allowed to stay up late to listen to Tuesday Serenade on BBC Radio, where Stanford Robinson was a ‘household name’ in the early post-war years. Target For Tonight was a prestigious documentary film made during WWII with music specially written by Leighton Lucas. Strangely, it was subsequently recorded for inclusion in the EMI Mood Music library, where it must have found further employment because it seems very familiar to me, although I am sure that I have never seen the film. Was the composer’s allusion to Prelude To Act III of Lohengrin (Richard Wagner) deliberate, bearing in mind that this was a film about the conflict with the Germans? Unusually, the quality of Alan Bunting’s digital transfers is at times a bit variable; I felt that two or three tracks needed a bit of ‘taming’ with the treble control, but this is hardly a major problem. All-in all, this is an interesting collection, which will particularly please those who enjoy something a bit ‘out of the ordinary’. Tony Clayden
RICHARD TAUBER – Intermezzo Vienna city of my dreams, Let me awaken your heart, My heart and I, Serenade from The Student Prince, Roses of Picardy, Can I forget you, The English Rose, One day when we were young, I’m in love with Vienna, Don’t be cross, Only a rose, One alone, My hero, Come back my love, Intermezzo, Ideale, Long ago and far away, We’ll gather lilacs, Au revoir (J'attendrai), Pedro the fisherman, Love lost for evermore, My curly headed baby (in German), The song is done (in German), Good-bye (in German) Recorded in the 1930s and ’40s (75:28) CDVS 1910. Today’s youngsters may find it surprising that Richard Tauber was so popular in his day (the same can be said about many entertainers from that era). This generous (in time and price) souvenir of his unique talents will be warmly received by those who can remember him. David Ades
MATTHEW CURTIS – Orchestral works volume 3. Royal Ballet Sinfonia / Gavin Sutherland.On The Move, Flute Concerto, Five Dances For String Orchestra, Divertimento Concertante, At Twilight, Partita. (72:27) Campion Cameo 2055. Although considerably younger than competition in this field, Curtis has mastered the genre and is a force to be reckoned with. I am no expert at reviewing orchestral music such as this so I played it to conductor Vic Lewis. In particular, he thought the Flute Concerto showed great promise and was very well played. Paul Clatworthy
... Curtis writes music of a consistently high standard; his orchestral scoring is rich and colourful, and his mastery of form is very satisfying. Peter Edwards
Matthew Curtis possesses that rare and precious facility for these times of being able to communicate readily and effectively with his listeners, even in his more serious works. Never is this better exemplified than in the engaging three movement Flute Concerto, flawlessly realised by Jennifer Stinton who excels movingly in the beautifully wrought Adagio Cantabile whose principal theme the composer subsequently incorporated into his Later Paths to Urbino suite. This work is surely a valuable, significant and attractive addition to the repertoire of Flute Concertos, and one fervently hopes it will be taken up by other flautists in the concert hall. There is much more on this disc to beguile and enchant the ear; the music of Matthew Curtis is a joy and pleasure to hear, with a quality of melodic invention which never flags or risks straying into an unattractive, unmemorable aridity.Roger Hyslop
MART SANDER and his Swing Swindlers – Five-Fifteen: A Tribute to the BBC Dance Orchestra Five-Fifteen BBC, It’s D’Lovely, Rise ‘n’ Shine, Love is the Sweetest Thing, Jeepers Creepers, By the Sleepy Lagoon, Radio Times, Yours and Mine, I’m getting Sentimental over You, One night of Love, Happy Ending... Divine Art 25034 www.divine-art.com Tel. 01609 882062. This is a sensitively performed, beautifully recorded tribute to Henry Hall’s BBC Dance Orchestra. Hall was the orchestra’s leader during it’s golden age, 1935-37, when the band had adopted an unprecedented lush approach to arranging; that very British sound we love so much, with more strings and less brass. Hearing these songs in digital recording one hears so much fine detail for the first time, though perhaps without some of the natural contemporary drive of the original recordings. Marc Sander’s Swing Swindler’s seem to have captured the original style very well. This kind of music is certainly jazzy but I associate it melodically and harmonically with light orchestral music. It appears that the featured vocalists do not speak English as their first language and this is noticeable although their tone is smooth and diction perfect. Peter Edwards
MANTOVANI – All-American Showcase THE BEST OF SIGMUND ROMBERG Lover Come Back to Me, When I Grow Too Old to Dream, Softly as in a Morning Sunrise, The Desert Song, Will You Remember [Sweetheart], Serenade from "The Student Prince" THE BEST OF VICTOR HERBERT Ah! Sweet Mystery of Life, A Kiss in the Dark, Sweethearts, I’m Falling in Love with Someone, Indian Summer, Kiss Me Again THE BEST OF IRVING BERLIN WALTZES The Girl that I Marry, Marie, [You Forgot to] Remember, Always, For the Very First Time, What’ll I Do THE BEST OF RUDOLF FRIML Love Everlasting, Rose Marie, Only a Rose, The Donkey Serenade, Sympathy, Indian Love Call (76:28) Vocalion CDLK 4317. What a joy, at last, to have these lovely melodies on CD in stereo; the 1959 double-LP never having been issued in this country. As Scott Raeburn points out in his admirable liner notes, all the composers were actually immigrants although, presumably, their music was composed in America. I have loved Romberg’s music ever since seeing Colchester Operatic Society perform his "New Moon", "Desert Song" and "Student Prince" when I was a young man. And When I Grow Too Old is one of my all-time favourite songs. Good as they are here, I will probably still turn to Percy Faith for the best of Victor Herbert interpretations, but Monty’s string laden versions of the wonderful Irving Berlin’s waltzes are second to none. The programme is completed with the greatest hits of another who, like Romberg, made his name in the now somewhat neglected world of operetta: the Prague born Rudolf Friml. Arguably his best-known piece, The Donkey Serenade, provides another example of Monty’s musical sense of humour. This disc will give much pleasure to anyone buying it – I encourage you to be one of them. Peter Burt
MANTOVANI – More Mantovani Magic Till, Trees, Theme for a Western, "Fiddler on the Roof" – suite: Fiddler on the Roof, If I Were a Rich Man, Sunrise, Sunset, "The Onedin Line" – theme, Spanish Eyes, Snow Frolic, This Way Mary, A Scottish Rhapsody An Evening With Mantovani A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening, Speak Softly Love, The Candy Man, The Summer Knows, The Good Life, With You Gone from "The Great Waltz", Cabaret, Love Theme from "The Valachi Papers", Upstairs, Downstairs, The Me I Never Knew, Amazing Grace [71.02] Vocalion CDLK 4320. Both these albums were recorded in France with French musicians in the early Seventies, two and three years before the close of Monty’s illustrious career when he had become more sparing in the use of his trademark string sound. So they should appeal to most RFS members. ‘An Evening With’ was one original LP that passed me by. The opening number in particular is most beautifully played, yet for all the album’s merits I do not feel it has quite the personality of earlier issues. ‘More Magic’ has always been one of my favourite albums, climaxing with Ronnie Binge’s 7-minute tone poem. Other standout tracks are Trees, an emotional early Twenties piece for which I’ve always had a soft spot; Monty’s own ‘Theme For A Western’, with a nod towards The Magnificent Seven; the three fine tunes from‘Fiddler’ ; Khachaturian’s evocative theme used in a well-remembered BBC TV series; and John Barry’s jewel from the 1972 movie "Mary Queen of Scots". This is the first time on compact disc for both albums and as a reminder of the maestro’s later style is well worth acquiring. Peter Burt
MATTHEW FORD – The Mood I’m in The Mood I’m In, On Days Like These, Always, C’est Magnifique, Call Me, Autumn Leaves, Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me, For Once In My Life, I Will Say Goodbye, Nature Boy, A Certain Smile, Oblivion, I’ve Grown Accustomed To Her Face, You Are So Beautiful, The Impossible Dream, I Get Along With You Very Well. (55:24) Diving Duck Recordings DDRCD004. Singer Matthew Ford toured with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra for five years before launching his solo career. Here he is joined by a ten-piece band with a small string section. Arrangements are by Colin Skinner and James Pearson. I cannot say Matthew has a voice that sets him apart; it is left to his backings to raise the music to a higher level. Half the album is up-tempo, occasionally inappropriately. However, guest guitar soloist Jim Mullen makes for good listening, and Malcolm Laycock has heaped praise on the album calling it ‘stunningly original’. Maybe I am missing something! Paul Clatworthy
Orchestral Jewels – The Composers Conduct. WOLF-FERRARI The Jewels of the Madonna: Act III Intermezzo, The Secret of Suzanne: Overture The Four Peasants: Act II Intermezzo, The Curious Women: Minuet and Furlana Recorded in 1947 Zürich Tonhalle Orchestra conducted by Ermanno Wolf-Ferrari; STRAUSS From Strauss to Straus: Selection, The Waltz Dream: Overture, The Chocolate Soldier Recorded in 1947 The New Symphony Orchestra cond. Oscar Straus; SCOTT-WOOD Serenade to Evening, London Caprice featuring Arthur Dulay (piano), Recorded 1949 The New Promenade Orchestra cond. George Scott-Wood; WILDMAN Vienna Concerto Jacqueline Blanchard (piano) Recorded 1949 L’Orchestre de la Suisse Romande cond. Charles Wildman (55:05). Dutton CDBP 9760. There are no booklet notes accompanying this CD in Mike Dutton’s ‘Super-budget’ series, but the works by Wolf-Ferrari and Oscar Straus will be familiar to many. Possibly less well-known are the Charles Wildman Vienna Concerto (a pleasant surprise), and the two works by George Scott-Wood. These are fascinating instances of those occasions when musicians associated with the more popular side of the music business feel the urge to venture into the realms of light music. Both are very pleasing numbers, with Serenade to Evening sounding as though it could have existed happily in the Chappell Recorded Music Library alongside pieces by Charles Williams or Sidney Torch.London Caprice is more in the style of the ‘Denham Concertos’ – those numbers who flowed from so many composers’ pens following the success of Warsaw Concerto and the kind of enthusiastic reception enjoyed by Clive Richardson’s London Fantasia. It is worth getting the CD for these two tracks alone, although the other music is very welcome as well. David Ades
CHRIS BOTTI (trumpet) with the London Session Orchestra – When I fall in Love When I Fall In Love, No Ordinary Love, My Romance, Let’s Fall In Love, Cinema Paradiso, Someone To Watch Over Me, La Belle Dame Sans Regrets, Nearness Of You, How Love Should Be, Make Someone Happy, One For My Baby, Time To Say Goodbye. (58:50) Columbia 518841-2. Backed by 28 strings Botti turns in his finest album so far. Four tracks have delectable arrangements by Jeremy Lubbock, the other arrangers coming close second – among them Gil Goldstein, Billy Childs, Bobby Colomby, Jeff Lorber and Brian Bromberg. Childs deserves a special mention for his brass writing on Let’s Fall in Love, the first sweep of strings arranged by Lubbock raises the hairs on the back of your neck, and Bromberg’s bass playing is really something else! Four tracks have vocals, including one by Sting (Botti is part of Sting’s touring band). All thirteen tracks make a wonderful backdrop for a quiet evening in of your choice. Paul Clatworthy
EDMUNDO ROS and His Orchestra – Ros Remembers Vocalion CDLK 4310 The Cuban Love Song, Happy Anniversary, Colonel Bogey, Could It Be, El Rancho Grande, I Yi Yi Yi, Y Viva Espana, Sunshine And Ole, Jungle Fantasy, I Talk To The Trees, Frenesi, South America Take It Away, Pao-Pao, Yellow Bird, Luna Do Brasil, Tango Of Romance, Dolores, The Wedding Samba, Cuanto Le Gusta, Chiu Chiu, Poinciana, Maria From Bahia, Show Me The Way To Go Home. Many of these tracks have been previously issued, but in every new album there are a few delightful surprises. The sleeve notes are by the maestro himself who is still going strong at the age of 95. Alec Hellyer
Music While You Work Music While You Work (Grenadier Guards); Toytown Tattoo (Phil Cardew); Polly (Harold Collins); Coon Band Contest (Troise); Harry Woods Hits (Primo Scala); Double Or Nothing (Jack Simpson); Samum (Harry Fryer); Alpine Festival (Fred Hartley); Tesoro Mio (Ronnie Munro); Knuckledust (Harold Collins); Corn on the Cob (George Scott-Wood); Those Were The Days (Jack Coles); Dance with a Dolly/Trolley Song (Al Collins); Boo Hoo/A Feather In Her Tyrolean Hat (George Elrick); Coon Band Rag (Troise); A Little On The Lonely Side/There Goes That Song Again (Oscar Rabin); East Of The Sun/Careless (Cecil Norman); Light and Shade (Harold Collins); King Steps Out (Richard Crean); Six Hit Medley (Primo Scala); With A Smile and a Song (Reginald Pursglove); Paper Doll/Bye Bye Blackbird/MacNamara’s Band (Jimmy Leach); Gung’l In the Ballroom (Wynford Reynolds); Love Dance Intermezzo (David Java). FBCD 141. Available from Frank Bristow, 2 Cross Street, Brighton 3186, Victoria, Australia. Tel. 03-9528-3167 Credit card / Paypal accepted - no cheques please - details on request. Forget any earlier spurious CDs trying to cash in on this long-running radio programme; this one is the real McCoy. All 24 recordings are taken from the eponymous Decca label which operated between 1943-1949. If you like lively light music – who doesn’t? – then you are bound to enjoy the following vintage tracks which neatly complement the definitive new book on "Music While You Work" by Brian Reynolds. Well done to everyone involved in this major project. Edmund Whitehouse
The Art of CONSTANT LAMBERT – A Centenary Tribute Bliss - Miracle in the Gorbals - 1946 Royal Opera House Orchestra / Constant Lambert; Gordon - The Rake’s Progress 1945 - The British Ballet Orchestra / Constant Lambert; Lambert - Music for Orchestra 1948 - Philharmonia Orchestra / Constant Lambert; Walton Façade excerpts 1929 - Edith Sitwell (spoken voice) Constant Lambert Ensemble / William Walton (71:13) CDBP 9761. This mixture of EMI Columbia, Decca and BBC Transcription recordings provides a worthwhile snapshot of an important figure in British musical life during the first half of the 20th century. His association with William Walton’s Façade will probably prove to be his most lasting tribute. The excerpts on this CD come from the premiére recording in 1929. David Ades
DAISY CHUTE – Simply Jazz. I Just Found Out About Love, Lazy Afternoon, Dindi, You Go To My Head, Girl Talk, Blackberry Writer, Too Young To Go Steady, If I Were A Bell, Little Girl Blue, Waltz For Debbie, Detour Ahead, Bill, I Like It Here. (46:28) TLCD 001 www.daisychute.com A debut CD for young singer Daisy Chute, supported in sensitive arrangements by the David Patrick trio. Chute makes her mark here and she should go far. Paul Clatworthy
SEMPRINI Serenades Rustle of Spring, Grieg’s Piano Concerto (first movement), Maria Dolores, Revolutionary Study (Chopin), Mansell Concerto (Kenneth Leslie-Smith), Come Back To Sorrento, Mediterranean Concerto (Semprini), Autumn Rhapsody, Malaguena, The Last Rhapsody (Wreford), etc. 25 tracks Sanctuary Living Era CD AJA 5511, 77:27 mins. The pianist Semprini was one of Britain’s most popular broadcasters in the post-war years, and this collection is a fine testament to the kind of repertoire that endeared him to millions. The recordings date from 1951 to 1954, and from the titles above it will be noted that this is a typical mix of Semprini favourites – to quote his own familiar introduction to his radio programmes: "Old ones, new ones, loved ones and neglected ones". Alan Bunting has worked his usual magic on the restorations, and this is a welcome addition to the growing list of CDs reflecting an era that now seems so very long ago. Don’t miss it. David Ades
London, a Vintage Portrait Disc 1: Big Ben chimes, Sing a Song of London (Ambrose), Old Father Thames (Peter Dawson), London Pride (Noel Coward), London Suite – Covent Garden, Westminster, Knightsbridge (Eric Coates), Burlington Bertie (Ella Shields), Barrers in the Walworth Road (Norman Long), Bank Holiday, 'Appy 'Ampstead (Albert Ketelbey), ‘Ampstead Way (Tessie O’Shea), If it wasn’t for the ‘ouses in between (Gus Elen), Underneath the Arches (Flanagan & Allen), Cockneys at heart(Gert & Daisy/Elsie & Doris Waters), Changing of the Guard (Malcolm McEachern), Changing of the Guard (Roy Fox), Changing Guard at Buckingham Palace (Ann Stephens), Horse Guards, Whitehall(Haydn Wood), Life begins at Oxford Circus (Jack Hylton), There’s a lovely lake in London (Gracie Fields), Round about Regent Street (Jay Wilbur), Carry on, London (Jack Payne), London Rhythm(Mills Brothers), Hyde Park (Duke Ellington), London on a rainy night (Harry Roy), A foggy day in London town (Ray Noble). Disc 2: A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square (Hutch), Lambeth Walk (Eddie Peabody), The trees Grosvenor Square (Lou Preager), Down the Mall (Philip Green), The London I love (Vera Lynn), Piccadilly (Ambrose), Piccadilly (Fats Waller) Chelsea (Ted Heath), London Conga (Don Marino Barreto), Bayswater Bustle (Paul Fenoulhet), That autumn in London Town (Joe Loss), Voice of London (Charles Williams), Maybe it’s because I’m a Londoner (Hubert Gregg), Leicester Square Rag (Harry Roy), Bow Bells (Donald Peers), Wellington Barracks (Haydn Wood), London Melody (Robert Farnon), Forty fahsend fevvers on a frush (Billy Cotton), On the steps of old St. Paul’s (Billy Cotton), Blues in Mayfair (Harry Roy), Midnight in Mayfair (George Melachrino),Give me the moon over London ((Carroll Gibbons), London by night (Frank Sinatra), When you hear Big Ben, you’re home again (Vera Lynn), Sing a song of London (Peter Dawson), When London is saying goodnight (Billy Thorburn). Living Era CD AJS 2004 (2 CDs)
London Pride Bow Bells (A 10 peal change specially recorded for the BBC in 1926 and used as radio interlude music for 40 years) London Pride (Graham Payn), In Town Tonight (flower seller introduction to BBC Radio Home Service) Knightsbridge March (Eric Coates), Life Begins at Oxford Circus (Jack Hylton), I live in Trafalgar Square (Stanley Holloway), Down at the Old Bull and Bush(Florrie Forde), Changing Guard at Buckingham Palace (Ann Stephens), The Queen’s Horses (Billy Cotton), London Underground train, Round the Marble Arch (Ambrose), London on a Rainy Night(Teddy Joyce), Limehouse Blues (Jack Hylton), The London I Love (Vera Lynn), Lambeth Walk (Sam Costa), Old Father Thames (Peter Dawson), Carry On London (Billy Cotton), Bond Street (Fats Waller), A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square (Anne Lenner), St Martin-in-the-Fields Church Bells/Oranges and Lemons (Owen Branagan), Bow Bells (Donald Peers), A Foggy Day in London Town (Carroll Gibbons), Maybe It’s Because I’m a Londoner (Alan Breeze), Big Ben is Saying Goodnight (Sam Browne), Chimes of Big Ben. Evergreen C99.
London CDs listed above Following the appalling events in the Metropolis last July, both Living Era and Evergreen have brought out their own tributes to our capital city. Living Era’s is a double CD while Evergreen’s is an ordinary single. Both are highly recommended; if you like light music, dance band music or ballads then there is something for everyone among the many and varied tracks, only a few of which are duplicated. Edmund Whitehouse
ILONA KNOPFLER – Live the Life I’m Going To Live The Life I Sing About In My Song, Comment Allez-Vous, But For Now, Ask Me Now, Throw It Away, Dansez Sur Moi (Girl Talk), Le Jazz Et La Java, This Is Always,, Paree Que, Alone Together, Les Moulins De Mon Coeur, No Tomorrow. (56:27) Mac Avenue Records MAC1021. www.mackavenue.com Knopfler was born in Paris and this album was produced by Grammy award-winning Jay Ashby- it’s decidedly tasty! The arrangers have perfectly highlighted her excellent. Throw it Away has a languid samba tempo made all the more exotic by use of an instrument called the Oud. Girl talk is sung in French with some Brubeck-inspired piano by Claude Nougaro. On the title track Knopfler’s is backed by some excellent choral work, and Comment Allez Vous is effectively revisited with a big band setting. I will be on the look-out for more recordings by this lady! Paul Clatworthy
LANCE ELLINGTON with John Wilson And His Orchestra – Lessons In Love Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Almost Like Being in Love, I Just Found Out About Love, Nature Boy, A Certain Smile, You Make Me Feel So Young, I Get a Kick Out of You, The Most Beautiful Girl in the World, Day In Day Out, How Do You Keep the Music Playing, Then I’ll Be Tired of You, Love Me or Leave Me, A House Is Not a Home, Lover Come Back to Me, What Kind of Fool am I. (48:22) Vocalion Digital CDSA6813. Those of us with ‘snow on the roof’ remember Lance’s father, Ray Ellington, who made a great contribution towards the success of ‘The Goon Show’. Robert Farnon fans remember Ray also for that rare LP ‘I Wish You Love’ he recorded with Bob’s orchestra way back in 1979. British TV viewers will have heard (and briefly seen) Lance as one of the singers with Laurie Holloway’s orchestra in ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ last year. Happily Lance is firmly in the spotlight on his own in this great collection of numbers by some of the finest songwriters of the past century. He sounds completely at ease in the company of John Wilson and his superb musicians, and surely this album must ensure that his career really takes off from now on. The role call of arrangers is impressive: alongside Angela Morley, Billy May, Nelson Riddle and Neal Hefti are the ‘newer boys’ – Colin Skinner, Mark Nightingale, Andrew Cottee and maestro John Wilson. Most numbers are up-tempo swingers, but there are oases of tranquillity – just listen to Andrew Cottee’s beautiful settings ofNature Boy and A Certain Smile; Andrew’s score for the finale What Kind of Fool am I also deserves special praise. On one track Lance is joined by Jodie Brooke Wilson whom he first met when doing session work backing other singers, and they clearly make a fine team. It’s hard to believe that this is Lance’s first solo CD, because it is such a high quality production in every respect. And once again it is good to find everyone in the orchestra is listed in the booklet. A critic is supposed to criticise, but I cannot honestly say that anything about this CD disappointed me. If you like good songs, excellently arranged and performed, you need look no further. David Ades
PERCY FAITH - The Columbia Singles volume 3 – 1959 to 1967 Theme from "Advise & Consent", Theme from "Lawrence Of Arabia", Melody from "Mahagonny", Love Me Now, Our Language Of Love, Bimini Goombay [Le Marchand De Bonheur], Tia Juana, Hawaiian Lullaby, Bilbao Song, Lover’s Prelude, Theme from "The Last Time I Saw Archie", The Brass Ring, Out Of This World, I Concentrate On You, Music Until Midnight [Lullaby For Adults Only], Jacqueline’s Journey, The Elephant And The Chimp, Perpetual Notion, The Sound Of Surf, La Bamba, Who’s Afraid?, Strangers In The Night, There Was A Time Collectables (67:34) COL-CD-7692. This is the one all Faith-o-philes had been waiting for -- our own Alan Bunting declaring it the greatest issue yet. Your reviewer gave the first two volumes a qualified welcome, so what about this one? Well worth the wait, I’d say, and a great voyage of discovery for those of us who are not too au fait with Faith 45s. There are several singles previously only issued in mono and, better still, five tracks never been released before in any form. There are also four tracks which, due to lack of space, were omitted from the albums‘Bouquet’/’Bouquet Of Love’ [COL-CD-6056] and ‘Tara’s Theme/’Jealousy’ [COL-5843]. The first four items are still in mono as, regrettably, the multi-track masters could not be located and are now presumed lost for ever. The Kurt Weill theme is Faith without strings; but they sing out in the second Weill number, Bilbao Song, and reach the heights on Bimini Goombay, a rather attractive little cha-cha. La Bamba, heard here for the first time, is always welcome. The lovely tune from "Irma La Douce" certainly benefits from stereo; as does The Elephant and the Chimp, originally written for the CBS Television show "A Look at Monaco" [ COL-CD-7611], featuring a tremendous tuba. This is one of nine tracks with the music penned by the great Percy. Other Faith favourites of mine are the gently rock-tinged The Brass Ring, syncopated piano, sawing strings and seductive saxophone combining in Perpetual Notion, and the final item with its classy trumpet that not even the female singers can spoil. Virtually every track is a winner so, unless it’s for the absence of any liner notes [sure Mr Bunting would have obliged], I find it hard to imagine anyone buying this album being disappointed. Peter Burt
London Festival Orchestra & Chorus / STANLEY BLACK – Broadway Blockbusters / Broadway Spectacular (74:43) Vocalion CDLK 4323. Most of the tracks on this CD have been done to death by other arrangers – yet another Oklahoma medley, for instance – but with Stanley Black you are always in for a treat. There are also some less well-known songs from popular shows – Big Dfrom The Most Happy Fella and Lawd I’m on My Way from Porgy and Bess. Brilliant sound quality too; hard to believe these albums are forty years old. Alec Hellyer
LEONARD BERNSTEIN conducts BERNSTEIN Facsimile A Choreographic Essay - RCA Victor Orchestra; On the Town Ballet Music - "On the Town" Orchestra; Jeremiah Symphony Nan Merriman (mezzo-soprano) - St Louis Symphony Orchestra; Ravel Concerto for Piano & Orchestra - Philharmonia Orchestra, Leonard Bernstein (piano). Recorded in the 1940s. (75:50) Dutton CDBP 9758. Leonard Bernstein has received a great deal of well-deserved praise for his illustrious career, so it is hardly necessary to go into great detail about his achievements. This inspired compilation features familiar and less well-known works, all from the 1940s. "On The Town" inspired the film of the same name, although little of Bernstein’s stage music transferred into the screen version. The Ravel Concerto for Piano and Orchestra was recorded in London with Bernstein conducting from the piano. David Ades
FRANCK POURCEL The Importance of Your Love The Lark, Rain and Tears, Congratulations, A Man Without Love, etc. Thinking of You If You Could Read My Mind, Friends, Adelaide, She’s a Lady, It’s Impossible, etc. 26 tracks Vocaliob CDLK4300, 74:14 mins. Franck Pourcel is now enjoying something of a welcome revival, and his many admirers will be glad to see that these two EMI LPs are available once again. David Ades
PEPE JARAMILLO ...meets Manuel High Noon, To Be The Obe You Love, Look Around, Madrid, etc.Moonlight in Mexico Nicola, Quiet Nights of Quiet Stars, Get Out of Town, Sunrise Sunset, The Sweetest Sounds, etc. 26 tracks Vocalion CDLK4306, 79:21. When he left his native Mexico and came to England back in the 1960s Pepe Jaramillo’s career really took off, and he made many LPs for EMI. In the first of them on this CD he is teamed with Manuel – in other words the talented Geoff Love who, as ‘Manuel and his Music of the Mountains’, also became a household name with his records being steady sellers for many years. It is good to be reminded of this tuneful era when pianists seemed to be far more popular than they are today. David Ades
A note about... Must Close Saturday Records
Some time ago we mentioned the activities of Adrian Wright of Must Close Saturday Records, who specialises in releasing rare recordings of predominantly post-war British musicals. His latest batch includes some real gems which will have enthusiasts reaching for their cheque books. The following basic list shows just how dedicated Adrian is to the cause of musical theatre and all six CDs come highly recommended: Late Joys MCSR 3026 - Victorian Music Hall from the Players Theatre featuring Hattie Jacques, Bill Owen and Clive Dunn; Streamline and Jill Darling MCSR 3021 - original London cast recordings featuring Florence Desmond, John Mills and Frances Day; Harry Parr Davies MCSR 3029 – a centenary recital of his most famous songs; Stop the World, I Want to Get Off MCSR 3028 – original London cast including Anthony Newley and Anna Quayle; Virtue in Danger MCSR 3027 – Patricia Routledge and friends in 1963, (long before she became Hyacinth Bucket); Noel Coward MCSR 3030 – last British recordings etc. For a catalogue and further information contact Must Close Saturday Records, 56 The Street, Poringland, Norwich, NR14 7JT. Tel. 01508-494371 Fax 01508-494471 e-mail enquiries@must-close-saturday-records or websitewww.must-close-saturday-records.co.uk Edmund Whitehouse
MARTIN DENNY The Best of… Exotica, Coronation, Quiet Village, Forbidden Island, Flamingo, Misirlou, Caravan, Jungle Drums, Taboo, etc. 19 tracks EMI 343 3732 54:39 mins. It is said that Martin Denny owes at least part of his international success to the sounds of nearby wildlife while they were performing in the open air at the resort of Oahu in Hawaii. Quite why record companies should assume that people want to listen to music at home interrupted by jungle sounds escapes me, apart from the fact that some musicians need gimmicks to mask their inadequate or non-existent talents. To be fair, such criticisms cannot be levelled at Martin Denny, and the tracks without the extraneous noises are quite enjoyable. It would be nice if modern technology could offer listeners the option to eliminate such annoying ‘extras’ but for the time being we have to put up with them. If you are already a Martin Denny fan you may want to know that only two tracks are new to CD, but the finale is an interview with Mr. Denny recorded in the 1950s and previously unreleased. He died on 2 March 2005 aged 93, and an obituary can be seen on page 67 of JIM 164. David Ades
Brief details of the following... from Wilfred Askew
MITCH MILLER and The Gang – 50 All-American Favourites 2CDs. Original US Columbia Recordings. Collector’s Choice CCM-0516-2. Including You Are My Sunshine, Goodnight Ladies, In The Shade Of The Old Apple Tree, Ain’t We Got Fun, Sweet Georgia Brown, Somebody Stole My Gal, Tea For Two, Till We Meet Again... (71:18 + 68:58)
JOE HARNELL, His Piano and Orchestra – Fly me to the Moon / The Bossa Nova Pops Original Kapp recording. Collector’s Choice CCM-0567-2. Including Senza Five, Cry Me A River, Midnight Sun, One Note Samba... (32:01)
MARTIN DENNY – Original Liberty recordings. CDs distributed by Pinnacle. Exotica volume 1CR REV 101; Exotica volume 2 CR REV 102; Exotica volume 3 CR REV 105; Primitiva CR REV 103; Forbidden Island CR REV 104; Hypnotique CR REV 106; Quiet Village CR REV 107; Afro-Desia CR REV 108.
BILLY VAUGHN and His Orchestra – 19 Classic Tracks. Original Dot recordings. Music Club MCCD 466. Including Blue Hawaii, Wheels, Look For A Star, Moonlight And Roses, Red Sails In The Sunset. (49:04)
THE RAY CHARLES SINGERS – Something Special for Young Lovers. Original Command recordings. Collector’s Choice CCM-0538-2. Including More, This Is All I Ask, Hello Dolly, Charade, Sweet Little Mountain Bird... (31:26)
THE RAY CHARLES SINGERS – Al-Di-La and Other Extra Special Songs for Young Lovers.Original Command recordings. Collector’s Choice CCM-0537-2. Including The Girl From Ipanema, Real Live Girl, Satin Doll, Till The End Of Time, You Are Never Far Away From Me... (32:25)
The GUILD series has undoubtedly been an unprecedented success – and still they keep coming, thick and fast!! These five releases cover a very wide timescale and a huge range of different musical styles.
SAY IT WITH MUSIC is the subtitle – taken from the name of the first track – of VOLUME III OF THE 1950s, and spans the years 1952-1955 [GLCD5119]. It follows the established format of combining the well-known with the less-familiar, and features mainly commercial recordings, interspersed with just a few from publishers’ libraries. In addition to works by some of the Great American Songbook composers such as Berlin, Kern, Rodgers and Schwartz, we encounter a number of British, European and American writers, who achieved fame (and hopefully fortune) with their purely orchestral compositions included here. Although some of the titles may not immediately spring to mind, many of the tracks would have been regularly heard on radio broadcasts, certainly those of the BBC. As I have remarked before, there is a definite difference in style and character between Light Music of the mid- to late-’40s on the one hand, and the early-’50s on the other; although this may not have been very obvious at the time, it becomes much more so with the benefit of hindsight, particularly when listening to this very enjoyable new collection.
The next CD marks a significant change in direction for the GUILD series [GLCD5120]. THE HALL OF FAME – VOLUME I – on its own admission – is aimed at newcomers to the World of Light Music, whilst still intending to appeal to established collectors, who are promised some surprises amongst the familiar items. Although a number of the titles may have already appeared elsewhere on CDs, the opportunity has been taken to carry out completely new digital restorations from the original 78s; this is claimed to offer improvements over releases from the late 1990s, due to the more advanced processing technology now available. There is a wide range of musical styles, resulting in a very varied programme – Percy Fletcher’s My Love To You in a 1930s performance by the Reginald King Orchestra, and Nöel Coward’s Mad About The Boy in an André Kostelanetz arrangement from 1955, represent the two extreme time-points. An innovation is the Featured Composer, in this case Clive Richardson, who takes pride of place with three of his popular pieces in recordings dating from 1945-47. Although David Ades’ biographical notes state that Richardson ‘first trained as a doctor’, this is not strictly true; in an exact parallel with Charles Shadwell, he started studying medicine, but soon gave it up in favour of a musical career and certainly never qualified as a physician. All-in-all, a well thought-out programme which happily ‘kept me company’ during a recent long car journey!
For many years, Haydn Wood has been much overshadowed by his contemporary (and rival?), Eric Coates. This is more than a little unfair; Wood was a highly inventive and versatile composer, and his works encompassed a wider range of genres and styles than those of Coates, who tended to keep to a very few well-trodden paths. Whilst most of the items on JOYOUSNESS – THE MUSIC OF HAYDN WOOD [GLCD5121] will not only be familiar but are likely to be in many collections, this is undoubtedly a very worthwhile addition to the GUILD series. It was inspirational to include the Peter Yorke/ Freddy Gardner recording of Roses Of Picardy, together with Wood’s orchestration of Charles Marshall’s I Hear You Calling Me; other highlights are Seville, Bird Of Love Divine, and the Homage March. It is pleasing that Haydn Wood’s music is now getting its due recognition, and the appearance of this new CD can only assist in that regard.
BRITISH CINEMA AND THEATRE ORCHESTRAS – VOLUME II [GLCD5122] covers the years 1927-39; once again, we are presented with a mixture of the very familiar and the almost unknown – but immediately enjoyable! Amongst the conductors, the names of (Arthur) Anton with organist Al Bonnington, Richard Crean, Joseph Muscant and Frank Tours are prominently featured; judging by the number of recordings that they made (some of which have appeared on previous GUILD CDs) they must have achieved great popularity in their day.The programme opens with what is probably the fastest-ever recorded performance of Buccalossi’s Grasshoppers Dance - I am tempted to wonder just what sort of ‘grass’ these particular hoppers were ‘on’!! Although the composer of theEspaña Waltz is credited as Emmanuel Chabrier, the piece here is really a slightly abridged arrangement of Emil Waldteufel’s famous version of the original Chabrier work Rhapsody – España. There seems to be an increasing interest in music of this type (no doubt helped by Volume I -GUILD 5108) and this new CD will certainly appeal to all those who enjoy Light Music of the pre-WWII era.
And so to the final new arrival – GREAT LIGHT ORCHESTRAS SALUTE THE MUSIC OF RICHARD RODGERS [GLCD5123]. This is another departure from the usual GUILD format and the booklet notes state that it is the first such SALUTE, the implication being that there will be more to follow. Although the works of Rodgers and his collaborators have been much-recorded, this must surely be the first time that such a diverse collection has appeared on CD in purely orchestral guise, performed by so many different ensembles and conductors. This composer wrote little else but Theatre and Film music, and every track is taken from a show, with the recordings dating from 1949-55. By that time Rodgers (in partnership with Oscar Hammerstein) was arguably at the height of his popularity, although the Rodgers and Hart compositions actually date from much earlier. Considering that most of these pieces were originally conceived as songs with lyrics, they have been very successfully transformed into their new format. In this connection, it is good to report that the names of arrangers are included in the booklet notes where appropriate; too often they are the unsung heroes, without whose talents performances like these could never have happened! This is another enjoyable addition to the series and it would be interesting to know which other composers are destined to appear in future SALUTES – as always, watch this space. Tony Clayden
If any readers would like to know the full contents of these Guild CDs, they were listed in our last issue, starting on page 62. All Guild CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
THE BBC RADIO 4 UK THEME – Royal Ballet Sinfonia / Gavin Sutherland. The moment it was announced that the medley of British folk tunes which has started the day on Radio 4 for the past 33 years was to be scrapped, producer Herbie Flowers arranged for the music to be recorded and released as a single, the ‘B’ side of which is Ronald Binge’s Sailing By. The disc is available for £1.99 in the shops, or 78p per track to download from the internet; proceeds are going to the Light Music Society. The performance here is fresh and solidly assured - quite superior to the original recording broadcast on the radio! Isn’t it fascinating how we don’t tend to appreciate something until we’ve lost it? Perhaps a small but significant event like this will help raise the profile of light orchestral music. The Radio 4 Theme single has no catalogue number - but is available in the UK from Asda, HMV, Tesco, Virgin and Woolworths or at the web address www.savetheradio4theme.co.uk Peter Edwards
IN THE LOUNGE WITH GARY WILLIAMS & HIS MUSICIANS Music to Watch Girls By (Velona; Ramin); Sweet Lorraine (Parish; Burwell); I Thought About You (Mercer; Van Heusen); A Swingin’ Affair (Myers; Cass); I Can’t Give You Anything But Love (Fields; McHugh); I’ve Got the Sun in the Morning (Berlin); Lover Come Back to Me (Hammerstein; Romberg); Fly Me to the Moon (Howard); I’m Glad There Is You (Madeira; Dorsey); Baubles, Bangles and Beads (Wright; Forrest); Call Me (Otis; Hendricks); All That Jazz (Carter; Stillman); Change Partners (Berlin); Let’s Get Lost (Loesser); Let There Be Love (Grant; Rand); Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries (De Sylva; Brown; Henderson); As Long as I’m Singing (Darin) Arrangements by Andrew Cottee and Richard Rodney Bennett Recorded at Abbey Road Studio No.3, London, February 2006 Vocalion CDSA 6814. One could describe this collection as ‘cocktail’ or ‘late night’ music, but that would imply that it should be enjoyed while doing something else – possibly more interesting. But that is not the case! Gary’s approach to his lyrics, and his empathy with his musicians demand your full attention, and his choice of numbers confirms what a wonderful period in history the last century was for high quality popular songs. Being the supreme professional that he is, Gary occasionally surprises by slipping in a verse that others have not treated us to previously. The general tone of the album is up-tempo, and the fine musicians performing the great arrangements created specially for Gary include Graham Harvey (piano), Dave Chamberlain (bass), Matt Skelton (drums), Martin Kershaw (guitar), Andrew Cottee (vibes) and Luke Annesley on reeds and flute. If I have one minor criticism it concerns the almost unreadable printing in part of the booklet – but that is the fault of the printers, not the musicians! Gary Williams simply gets better all the time – a great CD. David Ades All Dutton Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
LONDON LIGHTS – Streamline (Palace Theatre 1934) New Mayfair Orchestra / Ray Noble; Going Greek (Gaiety 1937) Debroy Somers; Stop Press (Adelphi 1935) New Mayfair Orchestra / Percival Mackey; Seeing Stars (Gaiety 1935) Debroy Somers; The Little Dog Laughed (Palladium 1939) London Palladium Orchestra / Clifford Greenwood; Operette (His Majesty’s 1938) His Majesty’s Theatre Orchestra / Ben Frankel; Slipping round the corner (from The Good Companions, His Majesty’s 1931) Debroy Somers; On the outside looking in (from The Little Dog Laughed, Palladium 1939) George Scott Wood and his Six Swingers; I’m on a see-saw (from Jill Darling, Saville 1934) Billy Cotton; You’re the top (from Anything Goes, Palace 1935) Jack Hylton;Mad about the boy (from Words & Music, Adelphi 1932) Savoy Hotel Orpheans; After you, who?(from The Gay Divorce, Palace 1933) Henry Hall; Sitting beside ‘o you / What are you going to do?(from Yes Madam? London Hippodrome 1934) George Scott Wood. Evergreen Melodies CL07. Available from: Evergreen Melodies, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – tel. 01242 515156 or online at Credit cards accepted. Price £9.95. Most of the 2,000 musicals which have graced the West End stage since Gilbert and Sullivan have been forgotten so this CD of original orchestras playing the original lively music – complementing the book "London Lights" - is a welcome addition to the Evergreen Melodies catalogue which now boasts almost 150 titles. The first six tracks are tuneful compilations of the complete musical and have never before been released on CD. The other seven tracks are melodic foot tapping singles, all adding up to a delightful light music CD with a swing in the step. Edmund Whitehouse
TEST CARD MUSIC Volume 10 Organ Grinder (Frederick Less), Hora (Ilja Genic), Girline (Less), Scaramuccia (Paul Rolke), Nikolashka (Rudolf Maluck), Pizzi Pizzi (L. Rey), Goodnight Madamoiselle ((Armand Bernard), Countrywise (James Turner), Lonely Journey (Alan Perry – real name Ernest Tomlinson), Welcome Waikiki (Laiser & Laube), Honolulu (Reipsch & Ackerman), Minute for String Orchestra (Capuzzi), Hot Line (William Gardner), Bossa Nova in the Moonlight ((Geo Voumard), Polka on the Rocks (Heinz Hőtter), Five to Play (Hőtter), Shake it Down (Hans Gluck), Bavarian Ramble (Gardner), Rainbow Room (Marino & Rollefson), West One (Gardner), Goo Goo Eyes (Frank Chacksfield) and Filigree (H. Lehmann). Apollo Sound APSCD236, 56:59 minutes. Fans of this enterprising series have been waiting some while for this latest release, but their patience has finally been rewarded. And ‘rewarded’ is the right word, because Test Card Music enthusiasts will find much to delight them in this latest collection – as usual the brainchild of our good friends Heinz Herschmann and Chris Churcher. With the exception of the two Heinz Hőtter numbers from Bosworth & Co., all the tracks are from Mozart Edition GB Ltd. The Orchestra Raphaele is featured on no less than eight tracks, and it is good to hear the fine Cologne Studio Orchestra. There are plenty of pleasant, relaxed light orchestral sounds among the more up-tempo numbers, and I personally think that this is one of the best selections among Apollo Sounds’ recent releases. You can’t help but feel happy when you listen to this CD! David Ades All Apollo Sound CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
PAUL MAURIAT "Le Couturier Musical" 3-CD collection featuring the famous French conductor, composer and arranger in his best-known works. Paul Mauriat plays his International Hits Love is Blue, Sabre Dance, Those Were The Days, New York New York, I Say a Little Prayer, Lara’s Theme, A Man and a Woman, Ebb Tide etc. [22 tracks] Paul Mauriat – Composer I Will Follow Him, Piano Star, Last Summer, Voila Voila, You, Baby [22 tracks, including vocals by Petula Clark, Caterina Valente etc.] Paul Mauriat – Arranger featuring various singers and four tracks under Mauriat’s pseudonym ‘Nico Papadopoulos’ [20 tracks] France Mercury Universal 983 230-5. This superb tribute is the creation of RFS member Serge Elhaik, and it is a beautifully produced box set which will make Mauriat’s fans very happy indeed! A glossy booklet featuring numerous photographs is bound into the box itself, and anyone with basic schoolboy French should not find it too difficult to understand most of the text. This is a high-quality product in all respects, and we send our sincere congratulations to Serge for his splendid work. David Ades This collection is available to special order through the RFS Record Service.
THE SPLENDOUR OF THE MARCH PART 1 - In Concert. The Band of HM Royal Marines School of Music / Lieutenant Colonel F. Vivian Dunn CVO OBE FRAM RM with Frederick Harvey (Baritone). Neville - Silver Bugles; Alford - Old Panama; Hall - The New Colonial; O’Reilly-Sanderson - Drake Goes West; Dodgson-Phillips - The Fishermen of England; Anderson - Bugler’s Holiday; Dunn - The Admiral’s Regiment; Farnon - Derby Day; Sousa - Manhattan Beach, Hands Across the Sea, The Invincible Eagle, The Black Horse Troop, The Pride of the Wolverines; Work - Marching Thro’ Georgia. THE SPLENDOUR OF THE MARCH PART 2 - The 1968 Royal Tournament. The Massed Bands, Corps of Drums and Fanfare Trumpets of HM Royal Marines conducted by Lieutenant Colonel F. Vivian Dunn CVO OBE FRAM RM. Display by the Royal Marines Corps Of Drums and Fanfare Trumpets; The Royal Marines Massed Bands - Marching Display & Finale/Salute and March Off. (59:00) Eastney Collection RMHSEC012. Available from: Eastney Collection, 60 Mayford Road, London SW12 8SN, telephone 0208 673 6157.www.eastneycollection.com The latest arrival from the Eastney Collection features more of Sir Vivian Dunn’s renowned recordings with the Royal Marines Band Service, while he was serving as their Principal Director of Music. The disc divides into two distinct sessions, the first and longer section is based on studio recordings with the Royal Marines School of Music Band, whilst the remainder of the disc emanates from live recordings made at the 1968 Royal Tournament featuring The Massed Bands, Corps of Drums and Fanfare Trumpets of HM Royal Marines. Considering all the obvious difficulties inherent in producing a live recording in such a vast echoing area as Earls Court, the engineers have achieved wonders and the results give the listener a compelling sense of being caught up in a great, historic and thrilling occasion. This was Sir Vivian’s last appearance at a Royal Tournament as PDM of the Royal Marines – he was subsequently to retire a few months later, and amongst the music featured in this sequence is a Kenneth Alford Medley, Cavalry of the Steppes and a stunning Sunset, played by no less than eighty buglers! The studio recordings referred to earlier consist mainly of marches and were made in the famous EMI Abbey Road Studio. Included is one of Vivian Dunn’s own superb essays in the genre, The Admiral’s Regiment, written specially for the 1964 Royal Marines Tercentenary and a quintet of marches by the American March King, John Phillip Sousa; of which The Black Horse Troop, with its simulated hoofbeats is particularly engaging. Sir Vivian was a stalwart champion throughout his life of quality light music and two fine examples of the genre are included in this compilation. Leroy Anderson’s ebullient Bugler’s Holiday, is brilliantly played by three expert Royal Marine musicians, whilst Robert Farnon’s lively Derby Day, is crisply and stylishly delivered. There is incidentally in the booklet notes, a photograph of Robert Farnon and Vivian Dunn discussing the score of A La Claire Fontaine at Deal, which the latter went on to record with the Light Music Society Orchestra and is currently available on a Vocalion CD – CDLK4182. One further strong inducement (if more were needed) to acquire this highly desirable disc is the presence on two of the tracks – Drake Goes West and The Fisherman of England, of the fine baritone voice of Frederick Harvey with its enviable clear articulation. The Eastney Collection is to be congratulated on restoring such valuable and distinguished recordings back to circulation and Brian Culverhouse, an EMI Recording Producer 1952-1972 who supervised the original recording sessions has expertly processed the digital re-mastering of these musical treasures to excellent effect. Roger Hyslop
MARCH MONTAGE – The Band and Bugles of The Light Division featuring the Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guards Association (Manchester Branch) / Major Calum Gray BA (Hons.) ARCM psm Fucik - Entry of the Gladiators; Meyerbeer/Godfrey - Les Huguenots; Mc Bain -Mechanized Infantry; Williams - Midway March; Mendelssohn – Wedding March; Texidor - Amparito Roca; Greig - Funeral March; Ganne – Marche Lorraine; Ord-Hume - The BB and CF; Alford - The Vanished Army; Sousa - The Stars and Stripes Forever; Jessell arr. Gould - The Parade of theWooden Soldiers (73:00) CHEVRON CHVCD 23. If you are somewhat daunted at the prospect of sitting through 70 minutes or so of non-stop marches, perhaps I might allay such fears by quoting the comments of the Director of Music of the Band of the Light Division, Major Calum C. Gray in the introductory notes to this CD thus – "It would be perfectly understandable, if on picking up a band recording featuring marches, your mind immediately conjures up images of a parade square replete with band, marching troops and a terrifying RSM barking out his orders. Yet as this recording wil demonstrate, the musical genre entitled ‘The March’ is incredibly diverse, capable of stirring up emotions ranging from pride and joy to tragedy and despair". This claim is amply borne out on this new release from Chevron, with a splendidly wide ranging selection representing marches from the Parade Ground, Silver Screen, Stage & Concert Platform and extending in mood from the flamboyant joyous character of the Spanish March Amparito Roca – the provenance of which now seems to be in some doubt – to the solemn heart rending strains of Grieg’s Funeral March, written as a tribute to the composer’s great friend and composer of the Norwegian National Anthem, Rikard Nordraak. Other highlights are the music from Meyerbeer’s opera Les Huguenots, heard each year at the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Horse Guards and Leon Jessell’s popular Parade of the Wooden [Tin?] Soldiers - famous for its use many years ago for BBC Radio Children’s Hour ‘Toytown’ Series, in Morton Guild’s somewhat quirky arrangement. Kenneth Alford’s poignant march The Vanished Army, dates from 1918, and it is dedicated to the first 100,000 who ‘gave their all’ during the First World War. Further contrast is provided by three appearances by the Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guards Association, playing medleys of traditional Scottish marching tunes arranged by Major Gray. The sound is excellent, full vivid and detailed and the sessions took place in the Regimental Chapel of Sir John Moore Barracks, Winchester. Interestingly, they were recorded, engineered, produced and mastered by the Royal Marines Band Service. A first class product! Roger Hyslop
EMI have recently released a further batch of ‘2 on ones’…
JULIE LONDON "Julie / Love on the Rocks" EMI 3530262.
The release of these two albums has been heavily influenced by requests from the many Julie great standards such as "Somebody Loves Me", and "Bye Bye Blackbird". "Love On The Rocks" is an album which contains outstanding tracks which include "Willow Weep For Me", "A Cottage For Sale", and "Love On The Rocks".
KAY STARR "Just Plain Country/Tears and Heartaches" EMI 3529302.
On "Just Plain Country" Kay Starr proves that even country music isn't beyond her vocal talents, zipping through the classics like "Crazy", "Walk On By", and "Singing The Blues". "Tears And Heartaches Old Records" also contains a few classic country tunes; "Make the World Go Away" and "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" to name but two.
AL MARTINO "We Could / Think I'll Go Somewhere And Cry Myself to Sleep" EMI 3530152. Two great Al Martino albums making their debut on CD. "We Could" is an album of ballads sung with Al Marline's unique rich Latin voice. "Think I'll Go Somewhere and Cry Myself to Sleep" contains the title track as well as "Wiedersehn", "Husbands and Wives", and "You Hurt Me".
JUNE CHRISTY "The Cool School/Do Re Mi" EMI 3510172.
"The Cool School" is an album featuring familiar tunes like "When You Wish Upon A Star", and "Swinging On A Star". In contrast "Do Re Mi" is an album of songs from the Broadway show of the same name. "Cry Like The Wind", "Make Someone Happy" and "Fireworks" are the highlight tracks but the whole album swings in great style.
NANCY WILSON "From Broadway with Love/Tender Loving Care" EMI 3512832.
"From Broadway with Love" contains a dozen great classics from the Broadway show stage. This album features orchestrations which fall into three distinctive styles and as usual Nancy Wilson gives all of these songs her very own treatment. "Tender Loving Care" is an album of love songs but not all sung or orchestrated in the form of slushy ballads. Some are pure romance and love but others really swing. Billy May arranges and conducts on this album.
The Essential NANCY SINATRA Bang Bang, Sugar Town, Somethin’ Stupid, Kind of a Woman, Let Me Kiss You, You Only Live Twice, etc. (26 tracks) EMI 356 2332. If your Dad is someone like Frank Sinatra it could be said that you have a head start in life, but somehow one gets the feeling that Nancy would have made a success of her career whoever her parents had been. Her big hits are here including duets with the likes of Dad (naturally) and Lee Hazlewood. Nancy has penned her own sleeve notes, and fans will certainly want this compilation. David Ades
WIENER MUSIK – Robert Stolz conducting the Berlin and Vienna Symphony Orchestras 12-CD Box Set Sony/BMG 82876678902. In his liner notes for Guild’s ‘Buried Treasures’ album [GLCD 5118], David Ades reminds us that Robert Stolz, who lived to the grand old age of 95, was an acclaimed Austrian composer, extremely popular in his homeland, [who] went to Hollywood to escape the Nazis where he enjoyed success writing music for films such as ‘Spring Parade’ and ‘It Happened Tomorrow’. He returned to the country of his birth in 1946, and as well as being one of the major composers of the last century – he was often described as "the king of the silver operetta" – he was also a fine conductor of 19th century Viennese dance music. At the age of nineteen he had actually met Johann Strauss Jr. – another "king": of the waltz. We have here 155 of the best tunes not only from the Strauss Family but also from Joseph Lanner, Joseph Libitzky, Joseph Gungl, Philipp Fahrbach, Franz von Suppé, Bélá Kéler, Karl Komzàk Sr, Juventino Roses, Carl Michael Ziehrer, Richard Heuberger, Franz Lehar, Julius Fučik, Leo Fall, Siegfried Translateur, Karl Komzŕk Jr, Emmerich Kálmán and Robert Stolz himself. This really is a super collection, working out at around £2.50 a disc. If, like me, you are captivated by the annual New Year’s Day Concert from the Austrian capital, or if you are just looking for a life enhancing listen, then these dozen discs [the shortest is over an hour, the longest just under 75 minutes] of this most graceful, captivating music – beautifully played and recorded – will enchant you all the year through. Peter Burt
THE TERRY CAVENDISH ORCHESTRA "All In An Afternoon’s Work" Leagueliner, Delicado, Blue Lou, Colonel Bogey, Moonglow, These Foolish Things, Tuxedo Junction, Big Noise from Winnetka, Fools Rush In, Organ Grinder’s Swing, Stay With It, When the Sun Comes Out, I’ll Be Around, 9.20 Special, Time for Change, Agotado, Monomania, Issmak, Crash Pad, Joyride, Hadrian’s Wall Vocalion CDSML 8419. These recordings first appeared in the Boosey & Hawkes Cavendish Music library, from which you will quickly realise that ‘Terry Cavendish’ is simply a made-up name! The real brain behind this fine group of British session musicians is Ray Davies who provided the arrangements and five of the compositions. The first 14 tracks come from CAV LP 9 made in 1973, featuring updated versions of well-known swing classics published by companies in the B&H group – the only exception being the first track composed by Ray. This album was subsequently released commercially by Pye. The final seven tracks are from other Cavendish albums of the same period. The top players include Alan Hawkshaw, Herbie Flowers, Denis Lopez, Alan Parker and Alf Bigden. Oliver Lomax deserves a special mention for his very interesting and informative booklet notes. David Ades
LES BAXTER AND HIS ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS Unchained Melodies Unchained Melody, Because of You, Blue Tango, April in Portugal, Tropicana, Ruby, I Love Paris, Gigi, Cornflakes, The High and the Mighty, etc plus tracks from the suites ‘Music Out of the Moon’, ‘Perfume Set to Music’ and ‘Le Sacred u Sauvage’ Sanctuary Living Era CD AJA 5572, 75:40 mins. The music of Les Baxter seems to be enjoying something of a revival (another CD can be found later in this feature) and he is also featured in Guild’s second ‘Hall of Fame’. He made some nice orchestral arrangements alongside his more commercial recordings with voices, and as more of his 1950s items fall out of copyright they are likely to be made available once again. David Ades All Sanctuary Living Era CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
DANIEL SMITH (bassoon), with Martin Bejerano (piano), John Sullivan (bass), Ludwig Afonso (drums) – Bebop Bassoon. Killer Joe (Golson), Anthropology (Parker/Gillespie), Blue Monk (Monk), Sister Sadie (Silver), In a Sentimental Mood (Ellington), All Blues (Davis), Doxy (Rollins), Up Against the Wall (Coltrane), Birk’s Works (Gillespie), Sticky Wicket (Gordon) (45:11). Guild Zah Zah ZZCD9820. Daniel Smith has steadily built up a reputation as ambassador of the contemporary bassoon. He continues to amaze us by his portrayal of the instrument, making it do things we never thought bassoons were meant to do. His latest disc is original in conception and immaculate in execution. The bassoon, whilst being the novelty instrument, is one of four equal voices in the quartet; it is not over-exposed, nor are the microphones unequally balanced as can sometimes be the case with such recordings. Smith gives the bassoon a new voice, bringing out the silky smooth middle and upper register of the instrument in preference to the lower, stereotypically clownish qualities more associated with orchestral solos. The bassoon thrives in this register, perhaps putting itself into the territory of the tenor or alto saxophone; but its tone quality is quite individual. A double reed in jazz is rather special and has to be heard to be believed. Peter Edwards This Guild CD is available from the RFS Record Service.
NIGHTS OF GLADNESS In the Palm Courts of the Thirties Nights Of Gladness - Charles Ancliffe & His Orchestra, Loin Du Bal – Bijou Orchestra, Stephane Gavotte - Ferdy Kaufman & His Orchestra, Clock And The Dresden Figures - Albert Ketelbey & His Concert Orchestra, Serenade Notturno D'Amore - Rendezvous Orchestra, Sizilietta - Charles Prentice Drury Lane Theatre Orchestra, Wedding Of The Rose (Der Rose Hochzeit) - Jack Hylton & His Orchestra, Hearts And Flowers - J.H. Squire & His Celeste Octet, Monsieur Tricotin (A Sketch Of Montmarte) - Mantovani & His Tipica Orchestra, Entr'Acte Gavotte - Marek Weber & His Orchestra, Musette - Fred Hartley & His Quintet, Occhi Di Zingara - Alfredo & His Orchestra, Pierrette - Leslie Bridgewater & His Quintet, Fairies In The Moon - Joseph Nuscant & The Troxy Broadcasting Orchestra, Cuban Serenade - Albert Sandler Orchestra, Poupee Valsante (Waltzing Doll) - Orchestre Raymonde, Nola (A Silhouette) - Serge Krish & His Sextet, Poeme - Edith Lorand & Her Orchestra, Teddy Bears Picnic - Alfredo Campoli & His Salon Orchestra, Jealousy (Jalousie) - Emil Roos, & His Orchestra, Serenade Number 1 - Barnabas Von Geczy & His Orchestra, Cuckoo Waltz - New Mayfair Orchestra, Shy Serenade - New Mayfair Orchestra, Grasshopper's Dance - Troise & His Mandoliers Sanctuary Living Era CD AJA 5601, 74:42 mins. Happily there do not seem to be many duplications with some other recent CDs in a similar vein, and with a generous helping of 24 tracks admirers of this kind of genteel light music should not hesitate to add this latest offering to their collection. Peter Dempsey has made an interesting selection, and his informative booklet notes add to the enjoyment. David Ades
LIGHT FANTASTIC! – The Radio Light Orchestra / Lieutenant Colonel John Ware Alford - On the Quarter Deck; Anderson - Blue Tango; Lewis - Autumn Love/Great Western Railway; Farnon -Westminster Waltz; Lai - A Man and a Woman; Vintner – Screwball; Jenkins - Happy Times/Trumpet Concertino (moderato); Richardson - Beachcomber; Hope - Jaunting Car (The Ring of Kerry Suite); Buttall - Autumn Embers/The Lone Ar-ranger Goes Orchestral! Duncan - Tomboy; Sullivan -Selection: The Pirates of Penzance (53:00) CLOVELLY CLCD13805. Available from: Clovelly Recordings Ltd., 1The Old Cannery, Hengist Road, Deal, Kent CT14 6WY Tel/Fax 01304 239356.www.clovellyrecordings.com The Radio Light Orchestra was established in 1999 in the West Country by ex Royal Marines musicians who make up approxiamately half of the players on this new Clovelly release. Despite the fact that the BBC are apparently so ill informed or out of touch with the current music scene that they continue to peddle the line that there is very little demand for light music, this newly established Light Orchestra has been compelled to move to ever larger venues as their fame spreads and demand grows. It’s most recent appearances have been at Plymouth Guildhall attracting audiences of over 600 people! The Orchestra numbers some 38 members - roughly the size I would guess of the old BBC West of England Light Orchestra, and their conductor is a former Principal Director of Music of the Royal Marines.The programme is nicely varied and whilst some of the titles will be very familiar to readers of JIM, there are one or two surprises which makes this disc a valuable new addition to Light Music discography. Paul Lewis is represented by two items: Autumn Love, the theme from a TV sitcom which starred Jimmy Jewel and his Great Western Railway,inspired by all those picturesque West Country branch lines which conveyed happy holidaymakers to their seaside resorts. Gilbert Vintner’s piece Screwball was conceived as a virtuosi xylophone solo and it is played with great dexterity by Kathryn Northcott, whilst particularly valuable is the inclusion of Trevor Duncan’s Tomboy, which is not otherwise available as far as I’m aware in an equivalent modern recording. Clive Jenkins, a Devon composer who has written many works for solo instrument and orchestra is featured by a cameo piece Happy Times, and by the second movement of hisTrumpet Concertino, which makes a positive impression - particularly when it is as well played as it is here by Andy Stark. Philip Buttell, another Devon composer arranged a rapidly moving ‘quickfire skit on a number of well known tunes as his The Lone Ar-ranger Goes Orchestral, somewhat reminiscent of Kenneth Alford’s Musical Switches. A nice touch and a refreshingly change is a good old fashioned extended selection rather than the far more usual Overture from The Pirates of Penzance, and rest assured that the strings of the RLO cope well enough with Blue Tango and ‘The Guvnor’s‘Westminster Waltz. This is a promising and impressive CD debut from this recently formed ensembe, and its not exactly everyday that a new Light Concert Orchestra appears ‘on the block’, so despite somewhat modest running time they should be given every encouragement from all who support the cause of Light Music. The well detailed, spacious recording was made at Alford Hall, Torpoint, Cornwall. More, gentlemen, please! Roger Hyslop
THE VERY BEST OF REGINALD DIXON 2-CD collection featuring many medleys and selections, plus individual numbers such as Tiger Rag, Twelfth Street Rag, Canadian Capers, Espana Waltz, La Paloma and Czardas. EMI Gold 094635599725. It seems incredible that Reginald Dixon died over 20 years ago, so this fine tribute is perhaps long overdue. Tim Wills has made a good choice from Reg’s EMI LPs from the era of the 1950s to 1970s when music at the English seaside resort of Blackpool simply meant Reg Dixon. "Mr. Blackpool" became a legend in his own lifetime, and the CD booklet contains many nostalgic photos. David Ades
THESE FOOLISH THINGS – The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. Includes songs by Mack Gordon, Al Hoffman, Buddy DeSylva, Cole Porter, Brooke Bowman, Harry Warren, Rod Thomas and Jack Strachey, incidental music by Ian Lynn. Vocals by Brian Lawrance, Jack Evetts, Anne Lenner, Cathi Ogden, Pete Zorn, Clare Teal, Judith Owen. (57.00) Sony BMG 82876803782. This disc is a selection of music from the film, which mixes original dance band recordings with newly composed incidental music. The vintage recordings are great, but Ian Lynn’s underscore is trashy and makes no attempt to be in keeping with the period. The final track, Strachey’s beautiful song These Foolish Things is heard in a most unattractive arrangement in which the original harmonies have been simplified and ruined. Peter Edwards
FÈTE AU VILLAGE SICILIEN ET NAPOLITAIN France Marianne Melodie 061591 – 49 tracks.This latest 2-CD compilation from Pierre-Marcel Ondher, the foremost authority on vintage light music in France, explores the fascinating repertoire from southern Italy and Sicily. The majority of the recordings come from the first half of the 1950s, but there are generous helpings also from the 1930s and 1940s. There are tarantellas, mazurkas, polkas and waltzes galore, and all tracks have detailed information regarding the recordings. PMO has written the comprehensive booklet notes in French, but English-only readers will be glad to know that Ralph Harvey has contributed some paragraphs in English. Many RFS members have purchased previous collections from this team, and they can be confident that the usual blend of the tuneful, and unexpected, is here in plenty. David Ades This 2-CD set is available to special order from the RFS record Service.
SALONORCHESTER SCHWANEN Conducted by GEORG HUBER Salon Orchestra Favourites Vol. 4 GERMAN HIT SONGS OF THE 1930s, featuring music by Gerhard Winkler, Peter Kreuder and Werner Richard Heymann. The fact that this series has now reached volume 4 is ample proof that there is a healthy demand for this kind of music. Vocals are provided by Annette Postel (in German, of course!) although a few items are purely orchestral. The orchestra performs with obvious enthusiasm, and those of you who purchased the first three volumes are sure to want this one as well. David Ades All Naxos and Marco Polo CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
Recent re-releases of classic LP recordings, compiled by Wilfred Askew…
ANDRE KOSTELANETZ (Original Columbia recordings)
Murder on the Orient Express (1975) + Never Can Say Goodbye (1975) Including: Root Beer Rag, Tenderly, Love’s Theme, Stardust, My Own Best Friend, Violets & Silverbells, Maiysha, It’s a Paper Moon. (64:38) Collectable COL-CD-7811.
Wonderland of Sound: Broadway’s Greatest Hits (1962) + Plays Hits of Funny, Finian’s Rainbow & Star! (1969) Including: I believe in You, Tonight, Till there was You, The Rain in Spain, My Favourite Things, My Ship, Funny Girl, My Man. (57:04) Collectables COL-CD-7813.
The Lure of France (1957) + The Lure of Paradise (1959) Including: Mimi, April in Paris, Pizzicato Polka, Reverie, Kalua, Sweet Leilani, Lotus Land, We Kiss in a Shadow. (75:29). Collectables COL-CD-7814
LES BAXTER – The Fruits of Dreams: Ports of Pleasure (1957) + The Sacred Idol (1960) (Original Capitol recordings) Including: City of Veils, Monkey Dance of Bali, Pearls of Ceylon, The Gates of Annam, Fruit of Dreams, Aquaducts, Temple of Gold, Pyramid of the Sun. (70:49) Cherry Red ACMEM57CD.
THE JOHNNY MAN SINGERS – Sixties Man (Original Liberty recordings) Including: The Girl from Ipanema, Snow, Call Me, Cherish, Mrs Robinson, Daydream, Goldfinger, A Taste of Honey. (60:01) Cherry Red ACMEM53CD.
SAMMY KAYE – Midnight Serenade (1959) + Ballroom Date (1960) (Original Columbia recordings) Including: I’ll See You in My Dreams, It Had to be You, I’ll Get By, The Very Thought of You, Baby Face, Blue Prelude, Temptation, Tea for Two. (63:22) Collectables COL-CD-7698.
THE FRANK CHACKSFIELD ORCHESTRA – I Could Have Danced All Night. Including: Wouldn’t it be Lovely, Carousel Waltz, Shall We Dance, On the Street Where You Live, Hello Young Lovers, Stranger in Paradise, Ascot Gavotte, Moon River. (49:23) Start Entertainment Parade PAR 2088
PERCY FAITH – The Oscar: Soundtrack music. Collectables COL-CD-7815
LAWRENCE WELK & HIS CHAMPAGNE MUSIC – Bubbling Over (original mono recordings 1938-1954. Including: Bubbles in the Wine, Two Sleepy People, Maria Elena, Sweethearts or Strangers, Shenandoah Waltz, Moonlight Bay, Ivory Rag, Oh Happy Day. (77:19) Sanctuary Living Era CDAJA 5552.
Finally we have a batch of late April releases from Mike Dutton’s Vocalion label…..
WERNER MÜLLER "ON THE MOVE & THE LATIN SPLENDOUR OF..." ON THE MOVE PFS 4029 (1964) STEREO Istanbul (Kennedy; Simon); American patrol (Meacham arr. Forster); In Hamburg sind die Nächste lang (Bette); Brazil (Barroso; James; Pepper); Arrivederci Roma (Rascel); Mustapha (Assam; Barclay); South of the border (Kennedy; Carr); Vaya con Dios (Russell; James; Pepper); Calcutta (Gaze); A foggy day in London Town (G & I Gershwin); April in Portugal (Kennedy; Ferrao); I love Paris (Porter); Sayonara (Yoshida; Morgan arr. Forster); España (Chabrier; arr. Flor) THE LATIN SPLENDOR OF… PFS 4199 (1970) STEREO Delicado (Azevedo; Lawrence); Perfidia (Dominguez); Pepito (Truscott; Taylor); Yours (Gamse; Sherr; Roig; Rodriguez); Eso es el amor (Iglesias; Elgos; Skylar); Mambo jambo (Prado; Karl; Towne); Frenesie (Dominguez; Charles; Russell); El Cumbanchero (Hernandez); Solamente una vez (You belong to my heart) (Lara); Cumana (Allen; Spina; Hillman); Amor, amor (Ruiz; Mendez; Skylar); A Banda (De Hollanda) TELDEC ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4303.
EDMUNDO ROS "ARRIBA! & BONGOS FROM THE SOUTH" ARRIBA! PFS 4092 (1966) STEREO In a little Spanish town (Wayne; Lewis; Young); Siboney (Lecuona; Morse); The laughing samba (Rizzo; Johnson; Meroff; Spear); Get me to the church on time (Loewe; Lerner); Hello, Dolly! (Herman); Oye negra (Morales; Camacho); Holiday for strings (Rose); Corcovado (Dunn; Rixner); Heartaches (Hoffman; Klenner); From Russia with love (Bart); Al di la (Donida; Mogol; Drake); If you love me (Monnot) BONGOS FROM THE SOUTH PFS 34010 (1962) STEREO Deep in the heart of Texas (Hershey; Swander); Lisbon Antigua (Portela; Galhardo; da Vale); Lady of Spain (Evans; Reaves; Damerell); La comparsa (Lecuona); My old Kentucky home (Foster arr. Ros; Hanmer); Brasil (Russell; Barroso); When the saints go marching in (Trad arr. Ros; Hanmer); Moon over Miami (Burke; Leslie); Roses from the South (Strauss arr. Ros; Hanmer); Taboo (Lecuona; Stillman); In a little Spanish town (Wayne; Lewis; Young); El Cumbanchero (Hernandez) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4313.
MANTOVANI "THE GREATEST GIFT IS LOVE & STOP THE WORLD... & OLIVER!" THE GREATEST GIFT IS LOVE SKL 5216 (1975) STEREO The greatest gift (Mancini; David); The old fashioned way (Garvarentz; Aznavour; Kasha; Hirshorn); Si (Go before you break my heart) (Pilat; Panzeri; Conti; Pace; Newell); Solitude (De Lange; Mills; Ellington); Sing (Raposo); Cool summer evening (Mantovani); What are you doing the rest of your life? (A & M Bergman; Legrand); The day of the locust (Barry); The entertainer (Joplin; arr. Shaw); Send in the clowns (Sondheim); Love song ‘The Freak’ (Chaplin); She (Aznavour; Kretzmer) STOP THE WORLD I WANT TO GET OFF & OLIVER! PS 270 (1962) STEREO OLIVER! (Bart) I’d do anything; You’ve got to pick a pocket or two; Consider yourself; Where is love?; Oom-pah-pah; Reviewing the situation; Oliver; Who will buy?; As long as he needs me STOP THE WORLD (Bricusse; Newley) Lumbered; Someone nice like you; Meilinki Meilchick; Once in a lifetime; Gonna build a mountain; I wanna be rich; What kind of fool am I?DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4324.
FRANK CHACKSFIELD "VINTAGE ’52 & GREAT COUNTRY AND WESTERN HITS" VINTAGE ’52 PFS 4413 (1977) STEREO Cry (Kohlman; Churchill); (I wonder why) You’re just in love (Berlin); (Ah, the apple tree) When the world was young (Gerard; Vannier; Mercer; Colpet); Lullaby of Birdland (Shearing; Forster); Kiss of fire (Villoldo; Allen; Hill); Wheel of fortune (Benjamin; Weiss) with Kenny Baker (solo trumpet); High noon (Do not forsake me) (Tiomkin; Washington); No two people (Loesser); Under Paris skies (Giraud; Gannon; Drejac); Aufwiederseh’n Sweatheart (Storch; Sexton; Turner) GREAT COUNTRY AND WESTERN HITS PFS 4080 (1966) STEREO with chorus I walk the line (Cash); I can’t stop loving you (Gibson); Sixteen tons (Travis); Anytime (Williams; Jordan); Lovesick blues (Mills; Friend); Don’t let the stars get in your eyes (Willet); El Paso (Robbins); Cold, cold heart (Williams); Jambalaya (Williams; Feltz); Your cheatin’ heart (Williams); Half as much (Williams); Walking the floor over you (Tubb) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4325.
RONNIE ALDRICH "LOVE STORY & THE WAY WE WERE" LOVE STORY PFS 4222 (1971) STEREO It’s Impossible (Manzanero); (I Never Promised You) A Rose Garden (South); My Sweet Lord (Harrison); Mr Bojangles (Walker); Woodstock (Mitchell); I Think I Love You (Romeo); Amazing Grace (Trad arr. Aldrich); What Is Life (Harrison); Theme from "Love Story" (Lai; Sigman); Candida (Wine; Levine); El Condor Pasa (Robles arr. Milchberg); Togetherness (Aldrich) THE WAY WE WERE PFS 4300 (1974) STEREO Love’s Theme (White); The Way We Were (Hamlisch; Bergman); Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress) (Laurie); I’ll Have To Say I Love You In A Song (Croce); Top Of The World (Bettis; Carpentier); Have You Heard (Pinder); Last Time I Saw Him (Masser; Sawyer); What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life? (Bergman; Legrand); Vado Via (Riccardi; Albertelli); Wave (Jobim); Happiness Is Me And You (O’Sullivan); Dark Lady (Durrill) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4331.
GUY LOMBARDO "LOMBARDO GOES LATIN & BELLS ARE RINGING" LOMBARDO GOES LATIN ST 1191 (1960) STEREO Cha Cha Cacciatore (Bergman); Ti-Pi-Tin (Grever; Leveen); Besame Mucho (Velasquez); Venezuela (Coleman; Corenzo); Glow Worm (Lincke; Larry arr Owens); Frenesi (Dominguez; Whitcup); Perfidia (Dominguez; Leeds); Cecilia (Dreyer; Herman); The Breeze And I (Lecuona; Stillman); Dinah (Akst; Lewis; Young); A Una Ola (Grever; Dole); Green Eyes (Menendez; Rivera; Utrera; Woods) BELLS ARE RINGING ST 1453 (1961) STEREO Just In Time (Comden; Styne; Green); Do It Yourself (Comden; Styne; Green); It’s A Perfect Relationship (Comden; Styne; Green); Drop That Name (Comden; Styne; Green); I Met A Girl (Comden; Styne; Green); Mu-Cha-Cha (Comden; Styne; Green); Better Than A Dream (Comden; Styne; Green); The Midas Touch (Comden; Styne; Green); Bells Are Ringing (Comden; Styne; Green); The Party’s Over (Comden; Styne; Green); I’m Going Back (Comden; Styne; Green) CAPITOL ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4333.
CARROLL GIBBONS & HIS BOYFRIENDS VOLUME 3 "Life of the party": Introducing; Life of the party; Roses in December; Damsel in distress: Nice work if you can get it; A foggy day; Things are looking up; Double or nothing: Introducing; It’s the natural thing to do; Moon got in my eyes; Smarty; Mr Dodd takes the air: Introducing; Am I in love; Remember me; Carroll Gibbons looks back - Part 1: Introducing; Margie; Whispering; Some of these days; Carroll Gibbons looks back – Part 2: Introducing; Chinatown; My sweetie went away; I ain’t got nobody; Remember? - Part 1: Introducing; You forgot to remember; My heart stood still; I’ll see you again; Remember? - Part 2: Introducing; My blue heaven; Can’t help lovin’ that man; This year’s kisses; That certain age: Introducing; You’re as pretty as a picture; My own; Be a good scout; The gay imposters: Introducing; I wanna go back to Bali; Day dreaming; The Latin quarter; East side of heaven - Part 1: Introducing; Sing a song of sunbeams; That sly old gentleman; East side of heaven - Part 2: East side of heaven; Hang your heart on a hickory limb; What have we got to lose (Heigh ho, lack-a-day); Shuffle off to Buffalo; Stars fell on Alabama; Judy; Let me give my happiness to you; Three wishes; Sleepytime down South; Life is just a bowl of cherries; Black coffee; With thee I swing; If it’s the last thing I do; You can’t have everything - film selection: Introducing; The loveliness of you; Afraid to dream; Please pardon us, we’re in love. Vocalion CDEA 6113.
JACK HYLTON VOLUME 5 • THE DECCA YEARS • "THE LAST ROUND-UP" Nevertheless (I’m in love with you); You’re my decline and fall; Me; I don’t know why; Just once for all time; When the music is playing; Today, I feel so happy; Just friends; Ever since I kissed her on the Volga; Dream sweetheart; You’re taking a chance with me; The flies crawled up the window; I want to cling to Ivy; A bungalow, a piccolo and you; Underneath the arches; Wrap your arms around me; Masquerade; St Louis Blues; Hylton stomp; Love is the sweetest thing; Shadow waltz; We’re in the money; After you; It’s the talk of the town; The last round-up; T’ain’t Vocalists: Pat O’Malley, Eric Breeze, Billy Munn. Vocalion CDEA 6115.
KEN MACKINTOSH, HIS SAXOPHONE & HIS ORCHESTRA "OFF-SHORE" Kiss me again; The man I love; I’ll be around; Plink, plank, plonk; Harlem nocturne; It ain’t necessarily so; Stop! Sit down! Relax! Think!; Strange music; The haunted ballroom; The glow worm; Crew cut; Plymouth sound; The creep; Istanbul; Theme from film ‘Front Page Story’; Off shore; Edwardian; The monster; Air express; Riot in cell block 11; Black velvet; Shifting sands; The very thought of you; Oh my papa; Creeping Tom; Lovers in the dark; That Old Feeling Vocalists: The Mackpies, The Peter Knight Singers. Vocalion CDEA 6116.
KATHY KIRBY "MORE RARITIES & LIPGLOSS!" DECCA SINGLES 1962-66 Big man (Westlake); Who Knows** (Scott; Martin); Playboy (Westlake; Gregory); Too bad for Johnny* (Shuman; Carr); Someone to watch over me (G & I Gershwin); I’ll get by (Ahlert; Turk); Can’t help lovin’ that man (Kern; Hammerstein; Wodehouse); The man I love (G & I Gershwin); I can’t give you anything but love (Mchugh; Fields); Who’s sorry now (Snyder; Kalmar; Ruby); Acapulco 1922 (Allan; Talmy); No regrets (Dumont; Vaucaire; David); Shangri – la (Malneck; Maxwell; Sigman); You’re the answer to everything (Glanzberg); Reach out for me (Bacharach; David); That old feeling (Brown; Fain); Things I want to hear** (unknown); The way of love (Dieval; Stillman); Where in the world (Dunstall); Body and Soul (Green; Sour; Heyman; Eyton); Get Happy (Arlen; Koehler); My Man (Yvain; Charles; Pollock; Willemetz); Till the end of time (Kaye; Mossman); Spanish Flea (Wechter; Stellman)**Unreleased tracks *US release only DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4292.
CATERINA VALENTE WITH SILVIO FRANCESCO DEUTSCHE EVERGREENS SLK 16189-P (1961) STEREO Sing mit mir (Grothe; Dehmel); Kuß mich, bitte, bitte, kuß mich (Carste; Richter); Es war einmal eine Liebe (Jack; Balz); Fur eine Nacht voller Seligkeit (Kreuder; Schwenn); Die kleine Stadt will schlafen gehn (Bochmann; Bergner); Wer ist hier jung, wer hat hier Schwung? (Bochmann; Schulz; Gellen); Ich weiß, es wird einmal ein Wunder geschehn (Jary; Balz); Ganz leise kommt die Nacht (Grothe; Dehmel); Haben Sie schon mal im Dunkeln geküßt? (Jary; Beckmann; v. Pinelli); Kauf dir einen bunten Lutfballoon (v. Pinelli); Musik! Musik! Musik! (Kreuder; Beckman); Sag beim Abschied leise "Servus" (Kreuder; Lengsfelder; Hilm) WENN ES NACHT WIRD IN DEN STÄDTEN ND 625 (1965) STEREO Wenn es Nacht wird in den Städten (Peeters); Wer war der Mann neben dir (Peeters); Paris – C’est très chique (Peeters); San Francisco – Sailor’s Nightclub in Golden Frisco (Scharfenberger); Wien – Charly, zünd die Kerzen an (Galatis); London – In allen Kneipen von Soho (Phillips); Der Abend wird schön (Scharfenberger); New York – Blauer Asphalt (Scharfenberger); Berlin – Julius, ach Julius (Galatis); Rom – Schöne schwarze Rose (Scharfenberger); Mexico City – Mexikanischer Wein (Peeters); Wenn es Nacht wird in den Städten – Finale (Peeters) TELDEC ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4305.
JESS CONRAD "JESS FOR YOU & DECCA SINGLES COMPILATION" JESS FOR YOU LK 4390 1961 Walk away (Kaufman; Anthony); Why am I living (Slavin; Gail); That’s my weakness now (Greene; Stept); You too (Crompton; Sutherland); Rag doll (Pomus; Shuman); Cherry pie (Josea; Taub); (I Wanna) love my life away (Pitney); Little ship (Pomus; Shuman); An angel cries (Davis; Edwards); It tears me all to pieces (Pomus; Shuman; Sair); Out of luck (Gluck Jnr.); Mystery girl (Peacock) PLUS DECCA SINGLES COMPILATION DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4326.
ANTHONY NEWLEY "TONY & NEWLEY DELIVERED" TONY LK 4406 (1961) STEREO Yes! We have no bananas (Silver; Cohn); You’re free (Landesman; Wilder); I was never kissed before (Ellis); Drink to me only with thine eyes (arr. Hackney); All or nothing at all (Lawrence; Altman); Pack up your troubles in your old kit-bag (Powell; Asaf); Pop goes the weasel (arr. Hackney); Who can say (Salvador); Bye bye blackbird (Dixon; Henderson); I should care (Cahn; Stordahl; Weston); Basin Street blues (Williams; Plante); By myself (Dietz; Schwartz) NEWLEY DELIVERED LK 4654 (1965) What kind of fool am I (Bricusse; Newley); I saw her standing there (Lennon; Mc- Cartney); You made me love you (Monaco; Mc Carthy); I guess it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy (Anthony; Mann); Young only yesterday (Perper); Pop goes the weasel (arr. Hackney); And the heavens cried (Elias; Reid); Girls were made to love and kiss (Léhar; Herbert); Addio addio (Modugno; Migliacci; Sigman); Deep river (Trad. arr. Keating; Newley); There’s no such thing as love (Fraser; Hackney); Letters to my love (Moutet; Newley); Strawberry Fair (Sharp; Baring-Gould; adapt. Clapton); You are too beautiful (Rodgers; Hart); What now my love (Becaud; Sigman); I don’t want to set the world on fire (Marcus; Benjeman; Durham; Seiler) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4327.
GORDON MACRAE VOLUME 2 • "STRANGER IN PARADISE" Two-faced heart; Oh! Oh! Oh! Ophelia; This is heaven to me; River of smoke; I’m yours to command; I’ll buy you a star; Ol’ Man River; On a Sunday at Coney Island; Cuban love song; Last night when we were young; Down the old ox road; Cuddle up a little closer; Baby Doll; Be my guest; Laughing at love; These things shall pass; Gentle hands; Blame it on my youth; There’s a lull in my life; How do you speak to an angel; Congratulations to someone; C’est magnifique; Homin’ time; Stranger in Paradise; Never in a million years; I don’t want to walk without you; High on a windy hill; Soothe my lonely heart Orchestras: Paul Weston’s Dixie Eight, Orchestra conducted by Carmen Dragon, Orchestra conducted by Carlyle Hall, Orchestra conducted by Van Alexander, Orchestra conducted by Frank De Vol, Orchestra conducted by Axel Stordahl Vocalion CDUS 3035.
LIGHT MUSIC CLASSICS "FINGER BUSTIN’" SIDNEY TORCH, CHARLES WILLIAMS, ROBERT FARNON, CAMARATA, PETER YORKE, ERIC COATES, AMBROSE Charmaine; The Horse Guards - Whitehall (signature tune of radio show "Down Your Way"); Coronation Scot (signature tune of radio detective series "Paul Temple"); Dance of an ostracised imp; Shooting star (signature tune of TV arts feature "Kaleidoscope"); Ring around the moon; Shopping centre; Jumping bean; Portrait of a flirt; The runaway rocking horse; Jazz legato; Jazz pizzicato; Fingerbustin’ Rhapsody for saxophone; London suite; London suite again Vocalion CDVS 1946. This is a budget release which, hopefully, will serve to introduce some people to the pleasures of Light Music and encourage them to investigate the available repertoire more fully. RFS members probably have all these pieces in their collections, although they may welcome the opportunity to hear some of these pieces again in new digital restorations.
LES BROWN "SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY" Leap frog; Out of nowhere; Daybreak serenade; I’ve got my love to keep me warm; I’m a-telling you, Sam; High on a windy trumpet; Lover’s leap; Doctor, lawyer, Indian chief; Day by Day; Jumpy Stumpy; Sentimental Rhapsody; Dardanella; Triskaidekaphobia (Tris-ky-dec-a-fobia); There’s good blues tonight; A foggy day (in London town); Drifting and dreaming; Beware my heart; Floatin’; I bring you Spring; Blue moon; Green eyes; Deep purple; Sentimental journey; Taking a chance on love Vocalists: "Stumpy" Brown, Butch Stone, Doris Day, Eileen Wilson, Jack Haskell Vocalion CDVS 1947.
KEEPING TRACK
Dateline June 2006
The GUILD series has undoubtedly been an unprecedented success – and still they keep coming, thick and fast!! These five releases cover a very wide timescale and a huge range of different musical styles.
SAY IT WITH MUSIC is the subtitle – taken from the name of the first track – of VOLUME III OF THE 1950s, and spans the years 1952-1955 [GLCD5119]. It follows the established format of combining the well-known with the less-familiar, and features mainly commercial recordings, interspersed with just a few from publishers’ libraries. In addition to works by some of the Great American Songbook composers such as Berlin, Kern, Rodgers and Schwartz, we encounter a number of British, European and American writers, who achieved fame (and hopefully fortune) with their purely orchestral compositions included here. Although some of the titles may not immediately spring to mind, many of the tracks would have been regularly heard on radio broadcasts, certainly those of the BBC. As I have remarked before, there is a definite difference in style and character between Light Music of the mid- to late-’40s on the one hand, and the early-’50s on the other; although this may not have been very obvious at the time, it becomes much more so with the benefit of hindsight, particularly when listening to this very enjoyable new collection.
The next CD marks a significant change in direction for the GUILD series [GLCD5120]. THE HALL OF FAME – VOLUME I – on its own admission – is aimed at newcomers to the World of Light Music, whilst still intending to appeal to established collectors, who are promised some surprises amongst the familiar items. Although a number of the titles may have already appeared elsewhere on CDs, the opportunity has been taken to carry out completely new digital restorations from the original 78s; this is claimed to offer improvements over releases from the late 1990s, due to the more advanced processing technology now available. There is a wide range of musical styles, resulting in a very varied programme – Percy Fletcher’s My Love To You in a 1930s performance by the Reginald King Orchestra, and Nöel Coward’s Mad About The Boy in an André Kostelanetz arrangement from 1955, represent the two extreme time-points. An innovation is the Featured Composer, in this case Clive Richardson, who takes pride of place with three of his popular pieces in recordings dating from 1945-47. Although David Ades’ biographical notes state that Richardson ‘first trained as a doctor’, this is not strictly true; in an exact parallel with Charles Shadwell, he started studying medicine, but soon gave it up in favour of a musical career and certainly never qualified as a physician. All-in-all, a well thought-out programme which happily ‘kept me company’ during a recent long car journey!
For many years, Haydn Wood has been much overshadowed by his contemporary (and rival?), Eric Coates. This is more than a little unfair; Wood was a highly inventive and versatile composer, and his works encompassed a wider range of genres and styles than those of Coates, who tended to keep to a very few well-trodden paths. Whilst most of the items on JOYOUSNESS – THE MUSIC OF HAYDN WOOD [GLCD5121] will not only be familiar but are likely to be in many collections, this is undoubtedly a very worthwhile addition to the GUILD series. It was inspirational to include the Peter Yorke/ Freddy Gardner recording of Roses Of Picardy, together with Wood’s orchestration of Charles Marshall’s I Hear You Calling Me; other highlights are Seville, Bird Of Love Divine, and the Homage March. It is pleasing that Haydn Wood’s music is now getting its due recognition, and the appearance of this new CD can only assist in that regard.
BRITISH CINEMA AND THEATRE ORCHESTRAS – VOLUME II [GLCD5122] covers the years 1927-39; once again, we are presented with a mixture of the very familiar and the almost unknown – but immediately enjoyable! Amongst the conductors, the names of (Arthur) Anton with organist Al Bonnington, Richard Crean, Joseph Muscant and Frank Tours are prominently featured; judging by the number of recordings that they made (some of which have appeared on previous GUILD CDs) they must have achieved great popularity in their day.The programme opens with what is probably the fastest-ever recorded performance of Buccalossi’s Grasshoppers Dance - I am tempted to wonder just what sort of ‘grass’ these particular hoppers were ‘on’!! Although the composer of theEspaña Waltz is credited as Emmanuel Chabrier, the piece here is really a slightly abridged arrangement of Emil Waldteufel’s famous version of the original Chabrier work Rhapsody – España. There seems to be an increasing interest in music of this type (no doubt helped by Volume I -GUILD 5108) and this new CD will certainly appeal to all those who enjoy Light Music of the pre-WWII era.
And so to the final new arrival – GREAT LIGHT ORCHESTRAS SALUTE THE MUSIC OF RICHARD RODGERS [GLCD5123]. This is another departure from the usual GUILD format and the booklet notes state that it is the first such SALUTE, the implication being that there will be more to follow. Although the works of Rodgers and his collaborators have been much-recorded, this must surely be the first time that such a diverse collection has appeared on CD in purely orchestral guise, performed by so many different ensembles and conductors. This composer wrote little else but Theatre and Film music, and every track is taken from a show, with the recordings dating from 1949-55. By that time Rodgers (in partnership with Oscar Hammerstein) was arguably at the height of his popularity, although the Rodgers and Hart compositions actually date from much earlier. Considering that most of these pieces were originally conceived as songs with lyrics, they have been very successfully transformed into their new format. In this connection, it is good to report that the names of arrangers are included in the booklet notes where appropriate; too often they are the unsung heroes, without whose talents performances like these could never have happened! This is another enjoyable addition to the series and it would be interesting to know which other composers are destined to appear in future SALUTES – as always, watch this space. Tony Clayden
If any readers would like to know the full contents of these Guild CDs, they were listed in our last issue, starting on page 62. All Guild CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
THE BBC RADIO 4 UK THEME – Royal Ballet Sinfonia / Gavin Sutherland. The moment it was announced that the medley of British folk tunes which has started the day on Radio 4 for the past 33 years was to be scrapped, producer Herbie Flowers arranged for the music to be recorded and released as a single, the ‘B’ side of which is Ronald Binge’s Sailing By. The disc is available for £1.99 in the shops, or 78p per track to download from the internet; proceeds are going to the Light Music Society. The performance here is fresh and solidly assured - quite superior to the original recording broadcast on the radio! Isn’t it fascinating how we don’t tend to appreciate something until we’ve lost it? Perhaps a small but significant event like this will help raise the profile of light orchestral music. The Radio 4 Theme single has no catalogue number - but is available in the UK from Asda, HMV, Tesco, Virgin and Woolworths or at the web address www.savetheradio4theme.co.uk Peter Edwards
IN THE LOUNGE WITH GARY WILLIAMS & HIS MUSICIANS Music to Watch Girls By (Velona; Ramin); Sweet Lorraine (Parish; Burwell); I Thought About You (Mercer; Van Heusen); A Swingin’ Affair (Myers; Cass); I Can’t Give You Anything But Love (Fields; McHugh); I’ve Got the Sun in the Morning (Berlin); Lover Come Back to Me (Hammerstein; Romberg); Fly Me to the Moon (Howard); I’m Glad There Is You (Madeira; Dorsey); Baubles, Bangles and Beads (Wright; Forrest); Call Me (Otis; Hendricks); All That Jazz (Carter; Stillman); Change Partners (Berlin); Let’s Get Lost (Loesser); Let There Be Love (Grant; Rand); Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries (De Sylva; Brown; Henderson); As Long as I’m Singing (Darin) Arrangements by Andrew Cottee and Richard Rodney Bennett Recorded at Abbey Road Studio No.3, London, February 2006 Vocalion CDSA 6814. One could describe this collection as ‘cocktail’ or ‘late night’ music, but that would imply that it should be enjoyed while doing something else – possibly more interesting. But that is not the case! Gary’s approach to his lyrics, and his empathy with his musicians demand your full attention, and his choice of numbers confirms what a wonderful period in history the last century was for high quality popular songs. Being the supreme professional that he is, Gary occasionally surprises by slipping in a verse that others have not treated us to previously. The general tone of the album is up-tempo, and the fine musicians performing the great arrangements created specially for Gary include Graham Harvey (piano), Dave Chamberlain (bass), Matt Skelton (drums), Martin Kershaw (guitar), Andrew Cottee (vibes) and Luke Annesley on reeds and flute. If I have one minor criticism it concerns the almost unreadable printing in part of the booklet – but that is the fault of the printers, not the musicians! Gary Williams simply gets better all the time – a great CD. David Ades All Dutton Vocalion CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
LONDON LIGHTS – Streamline (Palace Theatre 1934) New Mayfair Orchestra / Ray Noble; Going Greek (Gaiety 1937) Debroy Somers; Stop Press (Adelphi 1935) New Mayfair Orchestra / Percival Mackey; Seeing Stars (Gaiety 1935) Debroy Somers; The Little Dog Laughed (Palladium 1939) London Palladium Orchestra / Clifford Greenwood; Operette (His Majesty’s 1938) His Majesty’s Theatre Orchestra / Ben Frankel; Slipping round the corner (from The Good Companions, His Majesty’s 1931) Debroy Somers; On the outside looking in (from The Little Dog Laughed, Palladium 1939) George Scott Wood and his Six Swingers; I’m on a see-saw (from Jill Darling, Saville 1934) Billy Cotton; You’re the top (from Anything Goes, Palace 1935) Jack Hylton;Mad about the boy (from Words & Music, Adelphi 1932) Savoy Hotel Orpheans; After you, who?(from The Gay Divorce, Palace 1933) Henry Hall; Sitting beside ‘o you / What are you going to do?(from Yes Madam? London Hippodrome 1934) George Scott Wood. Evergreen Melodies CL07. Available from: Evergreen Melodies, PO Box 52, Cheltenham, GL50 1YQ, England – tel. 01242 515156 or online at Credit cards accepted. Price £9.95. Most of the 2,000 musicals which have graced the West End stage since Gilbert and Sullivan have been forgotten so this CD of original orchestras playing the original lively music – complementing the book "London Lights" - is a welcome addition to the Evergreen Melodies catalogue which now boasts almost 150 titles. The first six tracks are tuneful compilations of the complete musical and have never before been released on CD. The other seven tracks are melodic foot tapping singles, all adding up to a delightful light music CD with a swing in the step. Edmund Whitehouse
TEST CARD MUSIC Volume 10 Organ Grinder (Frederick Less), Hora (Ilja Genic), Girline (Less), Scaramuccia (Paul Rolke), Nikolashka (Rudolf Maluck), Pizzi Pizzi (L. Rey), Goodnight Madamoiselle ((Armand Bernard), Countrywise (James Turner), Lonely Journey (Alan Perry – real name Ernest Tomlinson), Welcome Waikiki (Laiser & Laube), Honolulu (Reipsch & Ackerman), Minute for String Orchestra (Capuzzi), Hot Line (William Gardner), Bossa Nova in the Moonlight ((Geo Voumard), Polka on the Rocks (Heinz Hőtter), Five to Play (Hőtter), Shake it Down (Hans Gluck), Bavarian Ramble (Gardner), Rainbow Room (Marino & Rollefson), West One (Gardner), Goo Goo Eyes (Frank Chacksfield) and Filigree (H. Lehmann). Apollo Sound APSCD236, 56:59 minutes. Fans of this enterprising series have been waiting some while for this latest release, but their patience has finally been rewarded. And ‘rewarded’ is the right word, because Test Card Music enthusiasts will find much to delight them in this latest collection – as usual the brainchild of our good friends Heinz Herschmann and Chris Churcher. With the exception of the two Heinz Hőtter numbers from Bosworth & Co., all the tracks are from Mozart Edition GB Ltd. The Orchestra Raphaele is featured on no less than eight tracks, and it is good to hear the fine Cologne Studio Orchestra. There are plenty of pleasant, relaxed light orchestral sounds among the more up-tempo numbers, and I personally think that this is one of the best selections among Apollo Sounds’ recent releases. You can’t help but feel happy when you listen to this CD! David Ades All Apollo Sound CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
PAUL MAURIAT "Le Couturier Musical" 3-CD collection featuring the famous French conductor, composer and arranger in his best-known works. Paul Mauriat plays his International Hits Love is Blue, Sabre Dance, Those Were The Days, New York New York, I Say a Little Prayer, Lara’s Theme, A Man and a Woman, Ebb Tide etc. [22 tracks] Paul Mauriat – Composer I Will Follow Him, Piano Star, Last Summer, Voila Voila, You, Baby [22 tracks, including vocals by Petula Clark, Caterina Valente etc.] Paul Mauriat – Arranger featuring various singers and four tracks under Mauriat’s pseudonym ‘Nico Papadopoulos’ [20 tracks] France Mercury Universal 983 230-5. This superb tribute is the creation of RFS member Serge Elhaik, and it is a beautifully produced box set which will make Mauriat’s fans very happy indeed! A glossy booklet featuring numerous photographs is bound into the box itself, and anyone with basic schoolboy French should not find it too difficult to understand most of the text. This is a high-quality product in all respects, and we send our sincere congratulations to Serge for his splendid work. David Ades This collection is available to special order through the RFS Record Service.
THE SPLENDOUR OF THE MARCH PART 1 - In Concert. The Band of HM Royal Marines School of Music / Lieutenant Colonel F. Vivian Dunn CVO OBE FRAM RM with Frederick Harvey (Baritone). Neville - Silver Bugles; Alford - Old Panama; Hall - The New Colonial; O’Reilly-Sanderson - Drake Goes West; Dodgson-Phillips - The Fishermen of England; Anderson - Bugler’s Holiday; Dunn - The Admiral’s Regiment; Farnon - Derby Day; Sousa - Manhattan Beach, Hands Across the Sea, The Invincible Eagle, The Black Horse Troop, The Pride of the Wolverines; Work - Marching Thro’ Georgia. THE SPLENDOUR OF THE MARCH PART 2 - The 1968 Royal Tournament. The Massed Bands, Corps of Drums and Fanfare Trumpets of HM Royal Marines conducted by Lieutenant Colonel F. Vivian Dunn CVO OBE FRAM RM. Display by the Royal Marines Corps Of Drums and Fanfare Trumpets; The Royal Marines Massed Bands - Marching Display & Finale/Salute and March Off. (59:00) Eastney Collection RMHSEC012. Available from: Eastney Collection, 60 Mayford Road, London SW12 8SN, telephone 0208 673 6157.www.eastneycollection.com The latest arrival from the Eastney Collection features more of Sir Vivian Dunn’s renowned recordings with the Royal Marines Band Service, while he was serving as their Principal Director of Music. The disc divides into two distinct sessions, the first and longer section is based on studio recordings with the Royal Marines School of Music Band, whilst the remainder of the disc emanates from live recordings made at the 1968 Royal Tournament featuring The Massed Bands, Corps of Drums and Fanfare Trumpets of HM Royal Marines. Considering all the obvious difficulties inherent in producing a live recording in such a vast echoing area as Earls Court, the engineers have achieved wonders and the results give the listener a compelling sense of being caught up in a great, historic and thrilling occasion. This was Sir Vivian’s last appearance at a Royal Tournament as PDM of the Royal Marines – he was subsequently to retire a few months later, and amongst the music featured in this sequence is a Kenneth Alford Medley, Cavalry of the Steppes and a stunning Sunset, played by no less than eighty buglers! The studio recordings referred to earlier consist mainly of marches and were made in the famous EMI Abbey Road Studio. Included is one of Vivian Dunn’s own superb essays in the genre, The Admiral’s Regiment, written specially for the 1964 Royal Marines Tercentenary and a quintet of marches by the American March King, John Phillip Sousa; of which The Black Horse Troop, with its simulated hoofbeats is particularly engaging. Sir Vivian was a stalwart champion throughout his life of quality light music and two fine examples of the genre are included in this compilation. Leroy Anderson’s ebullient Bugler’s Holiday, is brilliantly played by three expert Royal Marine musicians, whilst Robert Farnon’s lively Derby Day, is crisply and stylishly delivered. There is incidentally in the booklet notes, a photograph of Robert Farnon and Vivian Dunn discussing the score of A La Claire Fontaine at Deal, which the latter went on to record with the Light Music Society Orchestra and is currently available on a Vocalion CD – CDLK4182. One further strong inducement (if more were needed) to acquire this highly desirable disc is the presence on two of the tracks – Drake Goes West and The Fisherman of England, of the fine baritone voice of Frederick Harvey with its enviable clear articulation. The Eastney Collection is to be congratulated on restoring such valuable and distinguished recordings back to circulation and Brian Culverhouse, an EMI Recording Producer 1952-1972 who supervised the original recording sessions has expertly processed the digital re-mastering of these musical treasures to excellent effect. Roger Hyslop
MARCH MONTAGE – The Band and Bugles of The Light Division featuring the Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guards Association (Manchester Branch) / Major Calum Gray BA (Hons.) ARCM psm Fucik - Entry of the Gladiators; Meyerbeer/Godfrey - Les Huguenots; Mc Bain -Mechanized Infantry; Williams - Midway March; Mendelssohn – Wedding March; Texidor - Amparito Roca; Greig - Funeral March; Ganne – Marche Lorraine; Ord-Hume - The BB and CF; Alford - The Vanished Army; Sousa - The Stars and Stripes Forever; Jessell arr. Gould - The Parade of theWooden Soldiers (73:00) CHEVRON CHVCD 23. If you are somewhat daunted at the prospect of sitting through 70 minutes or so of non-stop marches, perhaps I might allay such fears by quoting the comments of the Director of Music of the Band of the Light Division, Major Calum C. Gray in the introductory notes to this CD thus – "It would be perfectly understandable, if on picking up a band recording featuring marches, your mind immediately conjures up images of a parade square replete with band, marching troops and a terrifying RSM barking out his orders. Yet as this recording wil demonstrate, the musical genre entitled ‘The March’ is incredibly diverse, capable of stirring up emotions ranging from pride and joy to tragedy and despair". This claim is amply borne out on this new release from Chevron, with a splendidly wide ranging selection representing marches from the Parade Ground, Silver Screen, Stage & Concert Platform and extending in mood from the flamboyant joyous character of the Spanish March Amparito Roca – the provenance of which now seems to be in some doubt – to the solemn heart rending strains of Grieg’s Funeral March, written as a tribute to the composer’s great friend and composer of the Norwegian National Anthem, Rikard Nordraak. Other highlights are the music from Meyerbeer’s opera Les Huguenots, heard each year at the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Horse Guards and Leon Jessell’s popular Parade of the Wooden [Tin?] Soldiers - famous for its use many years ago for BBC Radio Children’s Hour ‘Toytown’ Series, in Morton Guild’s somewhat quirky arrangement. Kenneth Alford’s poignant march The Vanished Army, dates from 1918, and it is dedicated to the first 100,000 who ‘gave their all’ during the First World War. Further contrast is provided by three appearances by the Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guards Association, playing medleys of traditional Scottish marching tunes arranged by Major Gray. The sound is excellent, full vivid and detailed and the sessions took place in the Regimental Chapel of Sir John Moore Barracks, Winchester. Interestingly, they were recorded, engineered, produced and mastered by the Royal Marines Band Service. A first class product! Roger Hyslop
EMI have recently released a further batch of ‘2 on ones’…
JULIE LONDON "Julie / Love on the Rocks" EMI 3530262.
The release of these two albums has been heavily influenced by requests from the many Julie great standards such as "Somebody Loves Me", and "Bye Bye Blackbird". "Love On The Rocks" is an album which contains outstanding tracks which include "Willow Weep For Me", "A Cottage For Sale", and "Love On The Rocks".
KAY STARR "Just Plain Country/Tears and Heartaches" EMI 3529302.
On "Just Plain Country" Kay Starr proves that even country music isn't beyond her vocal talents, zipping through the classics like "Crazy", "Walk On By", and "Singing The Blues". "Tears And Heartaches Old Records" also contains a few classic country tunes; "Make the World Go Away" and "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" to name but two.
AL MARTINO "We Could / Think I'll Go Somewhere And Cry Myself to Sleep" EMI 3530152. Two great Al Martino albums making their debut on CD. "We Could" is an album of ballads sung with Al Marline's unique rich Latin voice. "Think I'll Go Somewhere and Cry Myself to Sleep" contains the title track as well as "Wiedersehn", "Husbands and Wives", and "You Hurt Me".
JUNE CHRISTY "The Cool School/Do Re Mi" EMI 3510172.
"The Cool School" is an album featuring familiar tunes like "When You Wish Upon A Star", and "Swinging On A Star". In contrast "Do Re Mi" is an album of songs from the Broadway show of the same name. "Cry Like The Wind", "Make Someone Happy" and "Fireworks" are the highlight tracks but the whole album swings in great style.
NANCY WILSON "From Broadway with Love/Tender Loving Care" EMI 3512832.
"From Broadway with Love" contains a dozen great classics from the Broadway show stage. This album features orchestrations which fall into three distinctive styles and as usual Nancy Wilson gives all of these songs her very own treatment. "Tender Loving Care" is an album of love songs but not all sung or orchestrated in the form of slushy ballads. Some are pure romance and love but others really swing. Billy May arranges and conducts on this album.
The Essential NANCY SINATRA Bang Bang, Sugar Town, Somethin’ Stupid, Kind of a Woman, Let Me Kiss You, You Only Live Twice, etc. (26 tracks) EMI 356 2332. If your Dad is someone like Frank Sinatra it could be said that you have a head start in life, but somehow one gets the feeling that Nancy would have made a success of her career whoever her parents had been. Her big hits are here including duets with the likes of Dad (naturally) and Lee Hazlewood. Nancy has penned her own sleeve notes, and fans will certainly want this compilation. David Ades
WIENER MUSIK – Robert Stolz conducting the Berlin and Vienna Symphony Orchestras 12-CD Box Set Sony/BMG 82876678902. In his liner notes for Guild’s ‘Buried Treasures’ album [GLCD 5118], David Ades reminds us that Robert Stolz, who lived to the grand old age of 95, was an acclaimed Austrian composer, extremely popular in his homeland, [who] went to Hollywood to escape the Nazis where he enjoyed success writing music for films such as ‘Spring Parade’ and ‘It Happened Tomorrow’. He returned to the country of his birth in 1946, and as well as being one of the major composers of the last century – he was often described as "the king of the silver operetta" – he was also a fine conductor of 19th century Viennese dance music. At the age of nineteen he had actually met Johann Strauss Jr. – another "king": of the waltz. We have here 155 of the best tunes not only from the Strauss Family but also from Joseph Lanner, Joseph Libitzky, Joseph Gungl, Philipp Fahrbach, Franz von Suppé, Bélá Kéler, Karl Komzàk Sr, Juventino Roses, Carl Michael Ziehrer, Richard Heuberger, Franz Lehar, Julius Fučik, Leo Fall, Siegfried Translateur, Karl Komzŕk Jr, Emmerich Kálmán and Robert Stolz himself. This really is a super collection, working out at around £2.50 a disc. If, like me, you are captivated by the annual New Year’s Day Concert from the Austrian capital, or if you are just looking for a life enhancing listen, then these dozen discs [the shortest is over an hour, the longest just under 75 minutes] of this most graceful, captivating music – beautifully played and recorded – will enchant you all the year through. Peter Burt
THE TERRY CAVENDISH ORCHESTRA "All In An Afternoon’s Work" Leagueliner, Delicado, Blue Lou, Colonel Bogey, Moonglow, These Foolish Things, Tuxedo Junction, Big Noise from Winnetka, Fools Rush In, Organ Grinder’s Swing, Stay With It, When the Sun Comes Out, I’ll Be Around, 9.20 Special, Time for Change, Agotado, Monomania, Issmak, Crash Pad, Joyride, Hadrian’s Wall Vocalion CDSML 8419. These recordings first appeared in the Boosey & Hawkes Cavendish Music library, from which you will quickly realise that ‘Terry Cavendish’ is simply a made-up name! The real brain behind this fine group of British session musicians is Ray Davies who provided the arrangements and five of the compositions. The first 14 tracks come from CAV LP 9 made in 1973, featuring updated versions of well-known swing classics published by companies in the B&H group – the only exception being the first track composed by Ray. This album was subsequently released commercially by Pye. The final seven tracks are from other Cavendish albums of the same period. The top players include Alan Hawkshaw, Herbie Flowers, Denis Lopez, Alan Parker and Alf Bigden. Oliver Lomax deserves a special mention for his very interesting and informative booklet notes. David Ades
LES BAXTER AND HIS ORCHESTRA AND CHORUS Unchained Melodies Unchained Melody, Because of You, Blue Tango, April in Portugal, Tropicana, Ruby, I Love Paris, Gigi, Cornflakes, The High and the Mighty, etc plus tracks from the suites ‘Music Out of the Moon’, ‘Perfume Set to Music’ and ‘Le Sacred u Sauvage’ Sanctuary Living Era CD AJA 5572, 75:40 mins. The music of Les Baxter seems to be enjoying something of a revival (another CD can be found later in this feature) and he is also featured in Guild’s second ‘Hall of Fame’. He made some nice orchestral arrangements alongside his more commercial recordings with voices, and as more of his 1950s items fall out of copyright they are likely to be made available once again. David Ades All Sanctuary Living Era CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
DANIEL SMITH (bassoon), with Martin Bejerano (piano), John Sullivan (bass), Ludwig Afonso (drums) – Bebop Bassoon. Killer Joe (Golson), Anthropology (Parker/Gillespie), Blue Monk (Monk), Sister Sadie (Silver), In a Sentimental Mood (Ellington), All Blues (Davis), Doxy (Rollins), Up Against the Wall (Coltrane), Birk’s Works (Gillespie), Sticky Wicket (Gordon) (45:11). Guild Zah Zah ZZCD9820. Daniel Smith has steadily built up a reputation as ambassador of the contemporary bassoon. He continues to amaze us by his portrayal of the instrument, making it do things we never thought bassoons were meant to do. His latest disc is original in conception and immaculate in execution. The bassoon, whilst being the novelty instrument, is one of four equal voices in the quartet; it is not over-exposed, nor are the microphones unequally balanced as can sometimes be the case with such recordings. Smith gives the bassoon a new voice, bringing out the silky smooth middle and upper register of the instrument in preference to the lower, stereotypically clownish qualities more associated with orchestral solos. The bassoon thrives in this register, perhaps putting itself into the territory of the tenor or alto saxophone; but its tone quality is quite individual. A double reed in jazz is rather special and has to be heard to be believed. Peter Edwards This Guild CD is available from the RFS Record Service.
NIGHTS OF GLADNESS In the Palm Courts of the Thirties Nights Of Gladness - Charles Ancliffe & His Orchestra, Loin Du Bal – Bijou Orchestra, Stephane Gavotte - Ferdy Kaufman & His Orchestra, Clock And The Dresden Figures - Albert Ketelbey & His Concert Orchestra, Serenade Notturno D'Amore - Rendezvous Orchestra, Sizilietta - Charles Prentice Drury Lane Theatre Orchestra, Wedding Of The Rose (Der Rose Hochzeit) - Jack Hylton & His Orchestra, Hearts And Flowers - J.H. Squire & His Celeste Octet, Monsieur Tricotin (A Sketch Of Montmarte) - Mantovani & His Tipica Orchestra, Entr'Acte Gavotte - Marek Weber & His Orchestra, Musette - Fred Hartley & His Quintet, Occhi Di Zingara - Alfredo & His Orchestra, Pierrette - Leslie Bridgewater & His Quintet, Fairies In The Moon - Joseph Nuscant & The Troxy Broadcasting Orchestra, Cuban Serenade - Albert Sandler Orchestra, Poupee Valsante (Waltzing Doll) - Orchestre Raymonde, Nola (A Silhouette) - Serge Krish & His Sextet, Poeme - Edith Lorand & Her Orchestra, Teddy Bears Picnic - Alfredo Campoli & His Salon Orchestra, Jealousy (Jalousie) - Emil Roos, & His Orchestra, Serenade Number 1 - Barnabas Von Geczy & His Orchestra, Cuckoo Waltz - New Mayfair Orchestra, Shy Serenade - New Mayfair Orchestra, Grasshopper's Dance - Troise & His Mandoliers Sanctuary Living Era CD AJA 5601, 74:42 mins. Happily there do not seem to be many duplications with some other recent CDs in a similar vein, and with a generous helping of 24 tracks admirers of this kind of genteel light music should not hesitate to add this latest offering to their collection. Peter Dempsey has made an interesting selection, and his informative booklet notes add to the enjoyment. David Ades
LIGHT FANTASTIC! – The Radio Light Orchestra / Lieutenant Colonel John Ware Alford - On the Quarter Deck; Anderson - Blue Tango; Lewis - Autumn Love/Great Western Railway; Farnon -Westminster Waltz; Lai - A Man and a Woman; Vintner – Screwball; Jenkins - Happy Times/Trumpet Concertino (moderato); Richardson - Beachcomber; Hope - Jaunting Car (The Ring of Kerry Suite); Buttall - Autumn Embers/The Lone Ar-ranger Goes Orchestral! Duncan - Tomboy; Sullivan -Selection: The Pirates of Penzance (53:00) CLOVELLY CLCD13805. Available from: Clovelly Recordings Ltd., 1The Old Cannery, Hengist Road, Deal, Kent CT14 6WY Tel/Fax 01304 239356.www.clovellyrecordings.com The Radio Light Orchestra was established in 1999 in the West Country by ex Royal Marines musicians who make up approxiamately half of the players on this new Clovelly release. Despite the fact that the BBC are apparently so ill informed or out of touch with the current music scene that they continue to peddle the line that there is very little demand for light music, this newly established Light Orchestra has been compelled to move to ever larger venues as their fame spreads and demand grows. It’s most recent appearances have been at Plymouth Guildhall attracting audiences of over 600 people! The Orchestra numbers some 38 members - roughly the size I would guess of the old BBC West of England Light Orchestra, and their conductor is a former Principal Director of Music of the Royal Marines.The programme is nicely varied and whilst some of the titles will be very familiar to readers of JIM, there are one or two surprises which makes this disc a valuable new addition to Light Music discography. Paul Lewis is represented by two items: Autumn Love, the theme from a TV sitcom which starred Jimmy Jewel and his Great Western Railway,inspired by all those picturesque West Country branch lines which conveyed happy holidaymakers to their seaside resorts. Gilbert Vintner’s piece Screwball was conceived as a virtuosi xylophone solo and it is played with great dexterity by Kathryn Northcott, whilst particularly valuable is the inclusion of Trevor Duncan’s Tomboy, which is not otherwise available as far as I’m aware in an equivalent modern recording. Clive Jenkins, a Devon composer who has written many works for solo instrument and orchestra is featured by a cameo piece Happy Times, and by the second movement of hisTrumpet Concertino, which makes a positive impression - particularly when it is as well played as it is here by Andy Stark. Philip Buttell, another Devon composer arranged a rapidly moving ‘quickfire skit on a number of well known tunes as his The Lone Ar-ranger Goes Orchestral, somewhat reminiscent of Kenneth Alford’s Musical Switches. A nice touch and a refreshingly change is a good old fashioned extended selection rather than the far more usual Overture from The Pirates of Penzance, and rest assured that the strings of the RLO cope well enough with Blue Tango and ‘The Guvnor’s‘Westminster Waltz. This is a promising and impressive CD debut from this recently formed ensembe, and its not exactly everyday that a new Light Concert Orchestra appears ‘on the block’, so despite somewhat modest running time they should be given every encouragement from all who support the cause of Light Music. The well detailed, spacious recording was made at Alford Hall, Torpoint, Cornwall. More, gentlemen, please! Roger Hyslop
THE VERY BEST OF REGINALD DIXON 2-CD collection featuring many medleys and selections, plus individual numbers such as Tiger Rag, Twelfth Street Rag, Canadian Capers, Espana Waltz, La Paloma and Czardas. EMI Gold 094635599725. It seems incredible that Reginald Dixon died over 20 years ago, so this fine tribute is perhaps long overdue. Tim Wills has made a good choice from Reg’s EMI LPs from the era of the 1950s to 1970s when music at the English seaside resort of Blackpool simply meant Reg Dixon. "Mr. Blackpool" became a legend in his own lifetime, and the CD booklet contains many nostalgic photos. David Ades
THESE FOOLISH THINGS – The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack. Includes songs by Mack Gordon, Al Hoffman, Buddy DeSylva, Cole Porter, Brooke Bowman, Harry Warren, Rod Thomas and Jack Strachey, incidental music by Ian Lynn. Vocals by Brian Lawrance, Jack Evetts, Anne Lenner, Cathi Ogden, Pete Zorn, Clare Teal, Judith Owen. (57.00) Sony BMG 82876803782. This disc is a selection of music from the film, which mixes original dance band recordings with newly composed incidental music. The vintage recordings are great, but Ian Lynn’s underscore is trashy and makes no attempt to be in keeping with the period. The final track, Strachey’s beautiful song These Foolish Things is heard in a most unattractive arrangement in which the original harmonies have been simplified and ruined. Peter Edwards
FÈTE AU VILLAGE SICILIEN ET NAPOLITAIN France Marianne Melodie 061591 – 49 tracks.This latest 2-CD compilation from Pierre-Marcel Ondher, the foremost authority on vintage light music in France, explores the fascinating repertoire from southern Italy and Sicily. The majority of the recordings come from the first half of the 1950s, but there are generous helpings also from the 1930s and 1940s. There are tarantellas, mazurkas, polkas and waltzes galore, and all tracks have detailed information regarding the recordings. PMO has written the comprehensive booklet notes in French, but English-only readers will be glad to know that Ralph Harvey has contributed some paragraphs in English. Many RFS members have purchased previous collections from this team, and they can be confident that the usual blend of the tuneful, and unexpected, is here in plenty. David Ades This 2-CD set is available to special order from the RFS record Service.
SALONORCHESTER SCHWANEN Conducted by GEORG HUBER Salon Orchestra Favourites Vol. 4 GERMAN HIT SONGS OF THE 1930s, featuring music by Gerhard Winkler, Peter Kreuder and Werner Richard Heymann. The fact that this series has now reached volume 4 is ample proof that there is a healthy demand for this kind of music. Vocals are provided by Annette Postel (in German, of course!) although a few items are purely orchestral. The orchestra performs with obvious enthusiasm, and those of you who purchased the first three volumes are sure to want this one as well. David Ades All Naxos and Marco Polo CDs are available from the RFS Record Service.
Recent re-releases of classic LP recordings, compiled by Wilfred Askew…
ANDRE KOSTELANETZ (Original Columbia recordings)
Murder on the Orient Express (1975) + Never Can Say Goodbye (1975) Including: Root Beer Rag, Tenderly, Love’s Theme, Stardust, My Own Best Friend, Violets & Silverbells, Maiysha, It’s a Paper Moon. (64:38) Collectable COL-CD-7811.
Wonderland of Sound: Broadway’s Greatest Hits (1962) + Plays Hits of Funny, Finian’s Rainbow & Star! (1969) Including: I believe in You, Tonight, Till there was You, The Rain in Spain, My Favourite Things, My Ship, Funny Girl, My Man. (57:04) Collectables COL-CD-7813.
The Lure of France (1957) + The Lure of Paradise (1959) Including: Mimi, April in Paris, Pizzicato Polka, Reverie, Kalua, Sweet Leilani, Lotus Land, We Kiss in a Shadow. (75:29). Collectables COL-CD-7814
LES BAXTER – The Fruits of Dreams: Ports of Pleasure (1957) + The Sacred Idol (1960) (Original Capitol recordings) Including: City of Veils, Monkey Dance of Bali, Pearls of Ceylon, The Gates of Annam, Fruit of Dreams, Aquaducts, Temple of Gold, Pyramid of the Sun. (70:49) Cherry Red ACMEM57CD.
THE JOHNNY MAN SINGERS – Sixties Man (Original Liberty recordings) Including: The Girl from Ipanema, Snow, Call Me, Cherish, Mrs Robinson, Daydream, Goldfinger, A Taste of Honey. (60:01) Cherry Red ACMEM53CD.
SAMMY KAYE – Midnight Serenade (1959) + Ballroom Date (1960) (Original Columbia recordings) Including: I’ll See You in My Dreams, It Had to be You, I’ll Get By, The Very Thought of You, Baby Face, Blue Prelude, Temptation, Tea for Two. (63:22) Collectables COL-CD-7698.
THE FRANK CHACKSFIELD ORCHESTRA – I Could Have Danced All Night. Including: Wouldn’t it be Lovely, Carousel Waltz, Shall We Dance, On the Street Where You Live, Hello Young Lovers, Stranger in Paradise, Ascot Gavotte, Moon River. (49:23) Start Entertainment Parade PAR 2088
PERCY FAITH – The Oscar: Soundtrack music. Collectables COL-CD-7815
LAWRENCE WELK & HIS CHAMPAGNE MUSIC – Bubbling Over (original mono recordings 1938-1954. Including: Bubbles in the Wine, Two Sleepy People, Maria Elena, Sweethearts or Strangers, Shenandoah Waltz, Moonlight Bay, Ivory Rag, Oh Happy Day. (77:19) Sanctuary Living Era CDAJA 5552.
Finally we have a batch of late April releases from Mike Dutton’s Vocalion label…..
WERNER MÜLLER "ON THE MOVE & THE LATIN SPLENDOUR OF..." ON THE MOVE PFS 4029 (1964) STEREO Istanbul (Kennedy; Simon); American patrol (Meacham arr. Forster); In Hamburg sind die Nächste lang (Bette); Brazil (Barroso; James; Pepper); Arrivederci Roma (Rascel); Mustapha (Assam; Barclay); South of the border (Kennedy; Carr); Vaya con Dios (Russell; James; Pepper); Calcutta (Gaze); A foggy day in London Town (G & I Gershwin); April in Portugal (Kennedy; Ferrao); I love Paris (Porter); Sayonara (Yoshida; Morgan arr. Forster); España (Chabrier; arr. Flor) THE LATIN SPLENDOR OF… PFS 4199 (1970) STEREO Delicado (Azevedo; Lawrence); Perfidia (Dominguez); Pepito (Truscott; Taylor); Yours (Gamse; Sherr; Roig; Rodriguez); Eso es el amor (Iglesias; Elgos; Skylar); Mambo jambo (Prado; Karl; Towne); Frenesie (Dominguez; Charles; Russell); El Cumbanchero (Hernandez); Solamente una vez (You belong to my heart) (Lara); Cumana (Allen; Spina; Hillman); Amor, amor (Ruiz; Mendez; Skylar); A Banda (De Hollanda) TELDEC ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4303.
EDMUNDO ROS "ARRIBA! & BONGOS FROM THE SOUTH" ARRIBA! PFS 4092 (1966) STEREO In a little Spanish town (Wayne; Lewis; Young); Siboney (Lecuona; Morse); The laughing samba (Rizzo; Johnson; Meroff; Spear); Get me to the church on time (Loewe; Lerner); Hello, Dolly! (Herman); Oye negra (Morales; Camacho); Holiday for strings (Rose); Corcovado (Dunn; Rixner); Heartaches (Hoffman; Klenner); From Russia with love (Bart); Al di la (Donida; Mogol; Drake); If you love me (Monnot) BONGOS FROM THE SOUTH PFS 34010 (1962) STEREO Deep in the heart of Texas (Hershey; Swander); Lisbon Antigua (Portela; Galhardo; da Vale); Lady of Spain (Evans; Reaves; Damerell); La comparsa (Lecuona); My old Kentucky home (Foster arr. Ros; Hanmer); Brasil (Russell; Barroso); When the saints go marching in (Trad arr. Ros; Hanmer); Moon over Miami (Burke; Leslie); Roses from the South (Strauss arr. Ros; Hanmer); Taboo (Lecuona; Stillman); In a little Spanish town (Wayne; Lewis; Young); El Cumbanchero (Hernandez) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4313.
MANTOVANI "THE GREATEST GIFT IS LOVE & STOP THE WORLD... & OLIVER!" THE GREATEST GIFT IS LOVE SKL 5216 (1975) STEREO The greatest gift (Mancini; David); The old fashioned way (Garvarentz; Aznavour; Kasha; Hirshorn); Si (Go before you break my heart) (Pilat; Panzeri; Conti; Pace; Newell); Solitude (De Lange; Mills; Ellington); Sing (Raposo); Cool summer evening (Mantovani); What are you doing the rest of your life? (A & M Bergman; Legrand); The day of the locust (Barry); The entertainer (Joplin; arr. Shaw); Send in the clowns (Sondheim); Love song ‘The Freak’ (Chaplin); She (Aznavour; Kretzmer) STOP THE WORLD I WANT TO GET OFF & OLIVER! PS 270 (1962) STEREO OLIVER! (Bart) I’d do anything; You’ve got to pick a pocket or two; Consider yourself; Where is love?; Oom-pah-pah; Reviewing the situation; Oliver; Who will buy?; As long as he needs me STOP THE WORLD (Bricusse; Newley) Lumbered; Someone nice like you; Meilinki Meilchick; Once in a lifetime; Gonna build a mountain; I wanna be rich; What kind of fool am I?DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4324.
FRANK CHACKSFIELD "VINTAGE ’52 & GREAT COUNTRY AND WESTERN HITS" VINTAGE ’52 PFS 4413 (1977) STEREO Cry (Kohlman; Churchill); (I wonder why) You’re just in love (Berlin); (Ah, the apple tree) When the world was young (Gerard; Vannier; Mercer; Colpet); Lullaby of Birdland (Shearing; Forster); Kiss of fire (Villoldo; Allen; Hill); Wheel of fortune (Benjamin; Weiss) with Kenny Baker (solo trumpet); High noon (Do not forsake me) (Tiomkin; Washington); No two people (Loesser); Under Paris skies (Giraud; Gannon; Drejac); Aufwiederseh’n Sweatheart (Storch; Sexton; Turner) GREAT COUNTRY AND WESTERN HITS PFS 4080 (1966) STEREO with chorus I walk the line (Cash); I can’t stop loving you (Gibson); Sixteen tons (Travis); Anytime (Williams; Jordan); Lovesick blues (Mills; Friend); Don’t let the stars get in your eyes (Willet); El Paso (Robbins); Cold, cold heart (Williams); Jambalaya (Williams; Feltz); Your cheatin’ heart (Williams); Half as much (Williams); Walking the floor over you (Tubb) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4325.
RONNIE ALDRICH "LOVE STORY & THE WAY WE WERE" LOVE STORY PFS 4222 (1971) STEREO It’s Impossible (Manzanero); (I Never Promised You) A Rose Garden (South); My Sweet Lord (Harrison); Mr Bojangles (Walker); Woodstock (Mitchell); I Think I Love You (Romeo); Amazing Grace (Trad arr. Aldrich); What Is Life (Harrison); Theme from "Love Story" (Lai; Sigman); Candida (Wine; Levine); El Condor Pasa (Robles arr. Milchberg); Togetherness (Aldrich) THE WAY WE WERE PFS 4300 (1974) STEREO Love’s Theme (White); The Way We Were (Hamlisch; Bergman); Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress) (Laurie); I’ll Have To Say I Love You In A Song (Croce); Top Of The World (Bettis; Carpentier); Have You Heard (Pinder); Last Time I Saw Him (Masser; Sawyer); What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life? (Bergman; Legrand); Vado Via (Riccardi; Albertelli); Wave (Jobim); Happiness Is Me And You (O’Sullivan); Dark Lady (Durrill) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4331.
GUY LOMBARDO "LOMBARDO GOES LATIN & BELLS ARE RINGING" LOMBARDO GOES LATIN ST 1191 (1960) STEREO Cha Cha Cacciatore (Bergman); Ti-Pi-Tin (Grever; Leveen); Besame Mucho (Velasquez); Venezuela (Coleman; Corenzo); Glow Worm (Lincke; Larry arr Owens); Frenesi (Dominguez; Whitcup); Perfidia (Dominguez; Leeds); Cecilia (Dreyer; Herman); The Breeze And I (Lecuona; Stillman); Dinah (Akst; Lewis; Young); A Una Ola (Grever; Dole); Green Eyes (Menendez; Rivera; Utrera; Woods) BELLS ARE RINGING ST 1453 (1961) STEREO Just In Time (Comden; Styne; Green); Do It Yourself (Comden; Styne; Green); It’s A Perfect Relationship (Comden; Styne; Green); Drop That Name (Comden; Styne; Green); I Met A Girl (Comden; Styne; Green); Mu-Cha-Cha (Comden; Styne; Green); Better Than A Dream (Comden; Styne; Green); The Midas Touch (Comden; Styne; Green); Bells Are Ringing (Comden; Styne; Green); The Party’s Over (Comden; Styne; Green); I’m Going Back (Comden; Styne; Green) CAPITOL ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4333.
CARROLL GIBBONS & HIS BOYFRIENDS VOLUME 3 "Life of the party": Introducing; Life of the party; Roses in December; Damsel in distress: Nice work if you can get it; A foggy day; Things are looking up; Double or nothing: Introducing; It’s the natural thing to do; Moon got in my eyes; Smarty; Mr Dodd takes the air: Introducing; Am I in love; Remember me; Carroll Gibbons looks back - Part 1: Introducing; Margie; Whispering; Some of these days; Carroll Gibbons looks back – Part 2: Introducing; Chinatown; My sweetie went away; I ain’t got nobody; Remember? - Part 1: Introducing; You forgot to remember; My heart stood still; I’ll see you again; Remember? - Part 2: Introducing; My blue heaven; Can’t help lovin’ that man; This year’s kisses; That certain age: Introducing; You’re as pretty as a picture; My own; Be a good scout; The gay imposters: Introducing; I wanna go back to Bali; Day dreaming; The Latin quarter; East side of heaven - Part 1: Introducing; Sing a song of sunbeams; That sly old gentleman; East side of heaven - Part 2: East side of heaven; Hang your heart on a hickory limb; What have we got to lose (Heigh ho, lack-a-day); Shuffle off to Buffalo; Stars fell on Alabama; Judy; Let me give my happiness to you; Three wishes; Sleepytime down South; Life is just a bowl of cherries; Black coffee; With thee I swing; If it’s the last thing I do; You can’t have everything - film selection: Introducing; The loveliness of you; Afraid to dream; Please pardon us, we’re in love. Vocalion CDEA 6113.
JACK HYLTON VOLUME 5 • THE DECCA YEARS • "THE LAST ROUND-UP" Nevertheless (I’m in love with you); You’re my decline and fall; Me; I don’t know why; Just once for all time; When the music is playing; Today, I feel so happy; Just friends; Ever since I kissed her on the Volga; Dream sweetheart; You’re taking a chance with me; The flies crawled up the window; I want to cling to Ivy; A bungalow, a piccolo and you; Underneath the arches; Wrap your arms around me; Masquerade; St Louis Blues; Hylton stomp; Love is the sweetest thing; Shadow waltz; We’re in the money; After you; It’s the talk of the town; The last round-up; T’ain’t Vocalists: Pat O’Malley, Eric Breeze, Billy Munn. Vocalion CDEA 6115.
KEN MACKINTOSH, HIS SAXOPHONE & HIS ORCHESTRA "OFF-SHORE" Kiss me again; The man I love; I’ll be around; Plink, plank, plonk; Harlem nocturne; It ain’t necessarily so; Stop! Sit down! Relax! Think!; Strange music; The haunted ballroom; The glow worm; Crew cut; Plymouth sound; The creep; Istanbul; Theme from film ‘Front Page Story’; Off shore; Edwardian; The monster; Air express; Riot in cell block 11; Black velvet; Shifting sands; The very thought of you; Oh my papa; Creeping Tom; Lovers in the dark; That Old Feeling Vocalists: The Mackpies, The Peter Knight Singers. Vocalion CDEA 6116.
KATHY KIRBY "MORE RARITIES & LIPGLOSS!" DECCA SINGLES 1962-66 Big man (Westlake); Who Knows** (Scott; Martin); Playboy (Westlake; Gregory); Too bad for Johnny* (Shuman; Carr); Someone to watch over me (G & I Gershwin); I’ll get by (Ahlert; Turk); Can’t help lovin’ that man (Kern; Hammerstein; Wodehouse); The man I love (G & I Gershwin); I can’t give you anything but love (Mchugh; Fields); Who’s sorry now (Snyder; Kalmar; Ruby); Acapulco 1922 (Allan; Talmy); No regrets (Dumont; Vaucaire; David); Shangri – la (Malneck; Maxwell; Sigman); You’re the answer to everything (Glanzberg); Reach out for me (Bacharach; David); That old feeling (Brown; Fain); Things I want to hear** (unknown); The way of love (Dieval; Stillman); Where in the world (Dunstall); Body and Soul (Green; Sour; Heyman; Eyton); Get Happy (Arlen; Koehler); My Man (Yvain; Charles; Pollock; Willemetz); Till the end of time (Kaye; Mossman); Spanish Flea (Wechter; Stellman)**Unreleased tracks *US release only DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4292.
CATERINA VALENTE WITH SILVIO FRANCESCO DEUTSCHE EVERGREENS SLK 16189-P (1961) STEREO Sing mit mir (Grothe; Dehmel); Kuß mich, bitte, bitte, kuß mich (Carste; Richter); Es war einmal eine Liebe (Jack; Balz); Fur eine Nacht voller Seligkeit (Kreuder; Schwenn); Die kleine Stadt will schlafen gehn (Bochmann; Bergner); Wer ist hier jung, wer hat hier Schwung? (Bochmann; Schulz; Gellen); Ich weiß, es wird einmal ein Wunder geschehn (Jary; Balz); Ganz leise kommt die Nacht (Grothe; Dehmel); Haben Sie schon mal im Dunkeln geküßt? (Jary; Beckmann; v. Pinelli); Kauf dir einen bunten Lutfballoon (v. Pinelli); Musik! Musik! Musik! (Kreuder; Beckman); Sag beim Abschied leise "Servus" (Kreuder; Lengsfelder; Hilm) WENN ES NACHT WIRD IN DEN STÄDTEN ND 625 (1965) STEREO Wenn es Nacht wird in den Städten (Peeters); Wer war der Mann neben dir (Peeters); Paris – C’est très chique (Peeters); San Francisco – Sailor’s Nightclub in Golden Frisco (Scharfenberger); Wien – Charly, zünd die Kerzen an (Galatis); London – In allen Kneipen von Soho (Phillips); Der Abend wird schön (Scharfenberger); New York – Blauer Asphalt (Scharfenberger); Berlin – Julius, ach Julius (Galatis); Rom – Schöne schwarze Rose (Scharfenberger); Mexico City – Mexikanischer Wein (Peeters); Wenn es Nacht wird in den Städten – Finale (Peeters) TELDEC ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4305.
JESS CONRAD "JESS FOR YOU & DECCA SINGLES COMPILATION" JESS FOR YOU LK 4390 1961 Walk away (Kaufman; Anthony); Why am I living (Slavin; Gail); That’s my weakness now (Greene; Stept); You too (Crompton; Sutherland); Rag doll (Pomus; Shuman); Cherry pie (Josea; Taub); (I Wanna) love my life away (Pitney); Little ship (Pomus; Shuman); An angel cries (Davis; Edwards); It tears me all to pieces (Pomus; Shuman; Sair); Out of luck (Gluck Jnr.); Mystery girl (Peacock) PLUS DECCA SINGLES COMPILATION DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4326.
ANTHONY NEWLEY "TONY & NEWLEY DELIVERED" TONY LK 4406 (1961) STEREO Yes! We have no bananas (Silver; Cohn); You’re free (Landesman; Wilder); I was never kissed before (Ellis); Drink to me only with thine eyes (arr. Hackney); All or nothing at all (Lawrence; Altman); Pack up your troubles in your old kit-bag (Powell; Asaf); Pop goes the weasel (arr. Hackney); Who can say (Salvador); Bye bye blackbird (Dixon; Henderson); I should care (Cahn; Stordahl; Weston); Basin Street blues (Williams; Plante); By myself (Dietz; Schwartz) NEWLEY DELIVERED LK 4654 (1965) What kind of fool am I (Bricusse; Newley); I saw her standing there (Lennon; Mc- Cartney); You made me love you (Monaco; Mc Carthy); I guess it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy (Anthony; Mann); Young only yesterday (Perper); Pop goes the weasel (arr. Hackney); And the heavens cried (Elias; Reid); Girls were made to love and kiss (Léhar; Herbert); Addio addio (Modugno; Migliacci; Sigman); Deep river (Trad. arr. Keating; Newley); There’s no such thing as love (Fraser; Hackney); Letters to my love (Moutet; Newley); Strawberry Fair (Sharp; Baring-Gould; adapt. Clapton); You are too beautiful (Rodgers; Hart); What now my love (Becaud; Sigman); I don’t want to set the world on fire (Marcus; Benjeman; Durham; Seiler) DECCA ARCHIVES • Vocalion CDLK 4327.
GORDON MACRAE VOLUME 2 • "STRANGER IN PARADISE" Two-faced heart; Oh! Oh! Oh! Ophelia; This is heaven to me; River of smoke; I’m yours to command; I’ll buy you a star; Ol’ Man River; On a Sunday at Coney Island; Cuban love song; Last night when we were young; Down the old ox road; Cuddle up a little closer; Baby Doll; Be my guest; Laughing at love; These things shall pass; Gentle hands; Blame it on my youth; There’s a lull in my life; How do you speak to an angel; Congratulations to someone; C’est magnifique; Homin’ time; Stranger in Paradise; Never in a million years; I don’t want to walk without you; High on a windy hill; Soothe my lonely heart Orchestras: Paul Weston’s Dixie Eight, Orchestra conducted by Carmen Dragon, Orchestra conducted by Carlyle Hall, Orchestra conducted by Van Alexander, Orchestra conducted by Frank De Vol, Orchestra conducted by Axel Stordahl Vocalion CDUS 3035.
LIGHT MUSIC CLASSICS "FINGER BUSTIN’" SIDNEY TORCH, CHARLES WILLIAMS, ROBERT FARNON, CAMARATA, PETER YORKE, ERIC COATES, AMBROSE Charmaine; The Horse Guards - Whitehall (signature tune of radio show "Down Your Way"); Coronation Scot (signature tune of radio detective series "Paul Temple"); Dance of an ostracised imp; Shooting star (signature tune of TV arts feature "Kaleidoscope"); Ring around the moon; Shopping centre; Jumping bean; Portrait of a flirt; The runaway rocking horse; Jazz legato; Jazz pizzicato; Fingerbustin’ Rhapsody for saxophone; London suite; London suite again Vocalion CDVS 1946. This is a budget release which, hopefully, will serve to introduce some people to the pleasures of Light Music and encourage them to investigate the available repertoire more fully. RFS members probably have all these pieces in their collections, although they may welcome the opportunity to hear some of these pieces again in new digital restorations.
LES BROWN "SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY" Leap frog; Out of nowhere; Daybreak serenade; I’ve got my love to keep me warm; I’m a-telling you, Sam; High on a windy trumpet; Lover’s leap; Doctor, lawyer, Indian chief; Day by Day; Jumpy Stumpy; Sentimental Rhapsody; Dardanella; Triskaidekaphobia (Tris-ky-dec-a-fobia); There’s good blues tonight; A foggy day (in London town); Drifting and dreaming; Beware my heart; Floatin’; I bring you Spring; Blue moon; Green eyes; Deep purple; Sentimental journey; Taking a chance on love Vocalists: "Stumpy" Brown, Butch Stone, Doris Day, Eileen Wilson, Jack Haskell Vocalion CDVS 1947.
THE GREATEST GIFT IS LOVE - Mantovani and his Orchestra The Greatest Gift, Solitude, Sing, Cool Summer Evening, The Day Of The Locust, The Entertainer, Send In The Clowns, Love Song "The Freak", She, selections from Oliver!, Once In A Lifetime, Gonna Build A Mountain, I Wanna Be Rich, What Kind Of Fool Am I?... (77.15) Vocalion CDLK 4324. The first album, well thought of sonically by Mike Dutton, was Monty’s last original LP – recorded in Paris with French musicians during May and June 1975. In his brilliant biography of Mantovani [Melrose Books], Colin Mackenzie tells us that Monty showed signs of being unwell during the recordings and had help from Roland Shaw to finalise the album which, as well as being theologically correct, includes some beautiful sounds and is indeed a fitting climax to a lifetime in music. The Aznavour and Legrand tunes inevitably conjure up images of the French capital; Locust is one of John Barry’s many film themes; Cool was Monty’s final composition, and among his best; Charlie Chaplin’s Love Song from his proposed film The Freak proves again that his music is underrated. And what an enchantingly evocative melody Sondheim’sClowns is. The second album is a 1962 release recorded for American ears only. Again, Mr Mackenzie tells us that a third medley, from Irma La Douce, recorded at the same time was not released. Pity, because I much enjoyed what we have here: two seamless suites from David Merrick produced British musicals of the day. The Bart score has remained a firm favourite down the years, and it makes a nice change [especially if you have young grandchildren] to hear the music divorced from the film. Both selections demonstrate once again that Monty was not just about strings alone as all sections of his accomplished orchestra are involved, with a special mention for the trumpeter onGonna Build A Mountain. Peter Burt
A GREENWICH BANDSTAND - Royal Artillery Band/Lt. Col. Malcolm Torrent March: Trafalgar(Zehle), Greensleeves (Trad/arr Reed), Folk Festival from the film The Gadfly (Shostakovich/Hunsberger), The Love of My Life (McPherson/G Bragg), Shepherd’s Song (Trad/Goff Richards), Marche Militaire (Marche la Ronde) (Gounod/Trevor Sharpe), The Joyful Skeleton (W G Lemon/W Duthoit), March: Prodana Nevesta (The Bartered Bride) (Smetana/Zavertal)... (76:01) Specialist Recording Company SRC124.The latest in the excellent ‘Bandstand’ series from the Specialist Recording Company visits Greenwich with its rich, naval heritage and thus it’s hardly surprising that the contents reflects something of this nautical dimension. Particularly welcome is the inclusion of John Ansell’s ‘other’ maritime overture The Windjammer receiving a rare stereo recording in which the composer makes effective use of the famous traditional sea shantyShenadoah. Philip Sparke is a much respected and admired figure in wind and brass band circles having written a considerable corpus of works for these ensembles. On this disc we can sample both an exhilarating ride on the Orient Express accompanied by suitable train noises and be transported north of the border for the opening movement Andross Castle from the Hymn of the Highlands suite which is based on the haunting atmospheric and well known melody Highland Cathedral. Jazz enthusiasts amongst us will be well served with a flawless and stylish account of Artie Shaw’sConcerto for Clarinet which, as Lt Col Malcolm Torrent mentions in the CD booklet, was featured in the 1940 film ‘Second Chorus’ starring Fred Astaire. The soloist is Sergeant Ben Woodgate and his proficiency on the clarinet is surely ample testament to the high standards achieved by our military musicians these days. Of the remaining items on this imaginatively planned anthology it is refreshing to have such pieces as the Folk Festival from the film The Gadfly (rather than the somewhat over played Romance) and the stirring Fantasy of British Sea Songs by former Royal Artillery bandsman Gordon Langford. Langford made his first broadcast with the band as solo pianist in 1951. It would be extremely amiss of me to conclude this review without a reference to Robert Farnon’s State Occasionwhich is always a popular march with military bands and it receives here a truly resplendent performance — one of the best I’ve ever heard. With SRC’s usual vivid and well detailed recording, made in Woolwich Town Hall, there is plenty of contrast in the style and mood of the music on this disc, with predictably fine and outstanding playing throughout by the band. This CD makes for a very satisfying and absorbing aural experience — I thoroughly recommended to all with enthusiasm.Roger Hyslop
ENGLISH STRING MINIATURES Volume 5 - Royal Ballet Sinfonia/Gavin Sutherland Suite for Timothy (Pamela Harrison), Renaissance Suite (Francis Chagrin), Folksong and Fiddle Dance (Percy Fletcher), Suite Navarraise (Paul Lewis), Giocoso (Albert Cazabon), Three Pieces arr. Humphrey Searle (Thomas Roseingrave), Downland Suite arr. Geoffrey Bush (John Ireland). Naxos 8.557752. By now we know what to expect from the Philip Lane/Gavin Sutherland partnership and this CD is no exception - delightfully tuneful light music from lesser-known composers who, in some cases were better-known for other musical genres or, in other cases not known at all. Only one way to find out about their music. Buy it! Edmund Whitehouse
GREAT FILM FANTASIES - Cincinnati Pops Orchestra/Erich Kunzel Including music from Star Wars, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings... (61:48) Telarc CD-80664. Jeff Hall territory, really, but you can’t have too much of a good thing – and this is good. There are ten tracks from John Williams’ Star Wars, three from his Harry Potter and three from Howard Shore’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. If not exactly classical music [Classic FM, please note] it is classic film music and is certainly big on sound. The Main Theme from ‘Star Wars – A New Hope’ is still the star track in my opinion, although the jollyCantina Band from the same episode is one of those pieces one constantly replays. The booklet notes tell us that Erich Kunzel is the most successful Billboard classical crossover recording artist in history; this is his 82nd album with the Pops orchestra. The Telarc sonics are, as ever, almost worth buying the CD for. Peter Burt
BALLAD ESSENTIALS - Gene Harris Concord Jazz CCD-2170-2. (67:00). Made up of carefully chosen selections, this collection from the Concord catalogue of the 1989-1997 era provides a very welcome introduction to the great Gene Harris, a vastly underrated jazz pianist. His style is an engaging mix of funk with charismatic class. Sweet And Lovely explains this reasoning with a solid bass line by Ray Brown while Harris plays an elegantly modern styling of this classic song. Others in this quietly lyrical album include a misty This Masquerade with a great solo by guitarist Ron Eschete and a heart rending playing of That’s All which is another fine example of how hypnotic Gene Harris could be when he sat down at the piano. Ron Eschete is again finely lyrical as spun silk on this number. Together they lead the group in a swinging finale that defies words. Amidst these fine performers, there are some guests like Scott Hamilton on tenor in a gorgeous rendition of At Lastwith just Harris on piano. The late Jack McDuff is here on his Hammond B-3 organ, contributing an interesting contrast with Harris’ piano as they trade phrases back and forth. Although a great album for letter writing, this is also a much deeper album full of great feeling which were a highlight of Gene Harris’ artistry. Richard Jessen
ARRIBA/BONGOS FROM THE SOUTH - Edmundo Ros and his orchestra Vocalion. CDLK 4313. Another excellent release, 24 tracks all excellent and all standards; those that stand out are Siboney, Holiday for Strings and of course Brazil, great stuff but what is interesting is that there are two recordings of In a Little Spanish Town, one of which is 2:02 and the other 2:45 but I for one cannot tell the difference. I was hoping for some new releases of orchestras like Stanley Black but will have to be patient. At around £10 Vocalion recordings are exceptional value for money. Alec Hellyer
SINGS HER WONDERFUL SONGS - Rosemary Clooney 20 original recordings for under £3! (55.51) Disky SI 903626. Come On-A My House, Botch-A-Me, Hey There, Mambo Italiano, Wish I Wuz, Tenderly are all here. This Ole House should be but, although listed, has somehow been replaced by If I Loved You Half As Much. Guy Mitchell duets on You’re Just In Love and Rosie is joined on Too Old To Cut The Mustard by the great Marlene Dietrich. Another great, Percy Faith is credited on two tracks, Who Kissed Me Last Night and Mixed Emotions, that would have benefited from Alan Bunting’s audio attention. None the less something of a super bargain. Peter Burt
THE DIRECTOR’S CHOICE - Band of the Blues and Royals (Royal Horse Guards and 1st Dragoons)/Major D. D. Robertson The Watch Tower (Herze), Action Front (Blankenburg),Glorious Victory (Kendall), Machine Gun Guards (Marechal, The Standard of St George (Alford),: Wellington (Zehle)... (77:00) Specialist Recording Company SRC 151. This impressive assemblage of parade marches with a satisfying blend of the familiar and less familiar promises to be the first volume in a new series by the Specialist Recording Company, whereby a band’s Director of Music is tasked with making his own personal selection of marches. On this new release they vary in mood from the ebullient General Mitchell to the rather more sombre strains of The Vanished Army. Of the Alford pieces, Eagle Squadron was the last march to flow from the pen of this talented man, appearing in 1942 and saluting the American pilots who joined the RAF in 1940, a year before the USA entered the Second World War. Interestingly and coincidentally, also in 1942 a feature film was released in the UK bearing the same title as Alford’s march, depicting American flyers who join the RAF, based on a story by the well-known Hornblower novelist C. S. Forester. Other attractions on this new disc include a bracing On the Square by the ‘March King’ of Pittsburg, Frank Panella, whilst Hermann Starke provides an irrepressible, foot-tapping example of the Parade March. The strains of Thomas Bidgood’s The British Legion will be instantly familiar to any of us who watch the annual televised Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance from the Royal Albert Hall, as this piece is invariably played during the muster of Standards at the beginning of this moving and poignant ceremony. The composer Lloyd Thomas appears to have been a somewhat shadowy figure and Major Robertson in the informative booklet notes comments that little information appears to exist about Thomas other than the fact that he frequently recorded for the Regal Zonophone label in the 1930s, playing on the mighty Wurlitzer organ in the Granada Cinema, Tooting. I wonder whether any of our readers can supply further information on this composer/performer? In sum, those with a zest for exhilarating, tuneful and stirring music splendidly realised by the Blues and Royals, and with vivid, well-balanced recording, produced at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, will be well rewarded here. If the excellence of this first in the series is anything to go by this promises to be an exciting, outstanding, and landmark contribution to the art of military music discography. Roger Hyslop
WEST COAST VIBES - Roy Ayers Sound And Sense, Days Of Wine And Roses, Reggie Of Chester, It Could Happen To You, Donna Lee, Ricardo’s Dilemma... (51:01) EMI MQP1107. Being a fan of big bands means small group jazz does not often feature on my wants list! Roy is an exception! I like to think I have most of his recordings. He has gained most fame as a purveyor of quality soul music but his early career was in jazz, influenced by his father (trombone) and mother (piano). At a very early age he was given a set of vibes by Lionel Hampton who was very impressed with his talent. In the early 1960s he joined Curtis Amy’s group. This recording was the first under his own name, backed by a three-piece rhythm section and supported by his mentor Curtis Amy on tenor and soprano sax. Two titles self-written, others by Benny Golsen, Charlie Parker, Leonard Feather, Theolonious Monk and pianist Jack Wilson. Roy has a rare feel for ballads, well displayed here. The group do not add much to the jazz regulars but unless you have the original issue this is well worth investigating. Two tracks have been added recorded the previous year when Roy was a member of the Vi Redd group.Paul Clatworthy
UPTOWN ELEGANCE - Joe Negri Featuring arrangements by Dr. John Wilson Including Sweet And Lovely; It’s A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood; The Best Thing For You... (52:11). MCDJ-1015. This CD is definitely one which comes under the heading of a nourishing meal and a half! With scores evenly divided between a big band and small group, Joe Negri has another fabulous CD with great charts by Dr. John Wilson. Starting off with a big band swinger Sweet And Lovely, Negri displays the quietly hard driving swinging style which is his alone. The big band backing him is hot and really cooking. Making unorthodox charts for How My Heart Sings and A Weaver Of Dreams, trombones provide a dark cushion for Negri’s gently flowing performance, full of light and sunshine. And it’s always a wonderful day when we hear Negri’s spirited playing of the famous Fred Roger’s song It’s a Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood. The two Duke Ellington offerings (Solitude and Caravan) are worth mentioning for the fresh treatment each gets, especially Solitude which in Negri’s hands becomes a beautifully swaying bossa nova. Nina’s Smile spotlights Negri’s lyrical abilities in this tenderly reflective work. And after this handsome feast we get a desert: jazz clarinettist extraordinaire Buddy DeFranco and vibist Terry Gibbs come on board for a rousing conclusion with the small group for Blues For Brody. Both DeFranco and Gibbs are in excellent form as is Negri who plays magnificently throughout. The big band charts remind one of the Alvino Rey big band of the middle 1940's. Which is enough incentive to buy this sparkling recording. Richard Jessen
THE LATIN SPLENDOUR OF…/ON THE MOVE - Werner Muller and his Orchestra Vocalion CDLK 4303. 26 tracks of which 12 are standards which have been recorded many times and none of which are new to me. But when it comes to the second 13 that is different as several are new to me and while I like the sound it is not as big as I expected. The version of my all-time favourite Brazil is some 6 seconds shorter than the Edmundo Ros version on his new album. While I would most certainly buy another Muller album it is not a must for me, which is certainly not the case with Edmundo Ros. Alec Hellyer
KOGA MELODIES/RYOICHI HATTORI MELODIES - Percy Faith and his Orchestra 24 tracks(69:21) Taragon TARCD-1106. These must be two of the rarest LPs ever to make it onto CD. Not only have they not been on CD before, they have never been issued in any format either in the US or UK. They were recorded in the 1970s especially for the Japanese market. Masao Koga [1904-1978] was Japan’s most popular song composer and Ryoichi Hattori [1907- 1993] was also highly regarded in his native land for, among other things, his film music. Maestro Faith has taken a dozen each of their compositions and arranged them in his customary immaculate style. Alan Bunting, who has compiled the CD, was a prime mover behind its release and relates in his liner notes how Hattori was stunned at the complexity and richness that Percy brought to his work. The re-mastered sound is of the high quality for which the American company Taragon is renowned. This is a beautiful disc which, given its provenance, should be a prime purchase for every Faith aficionado. Peter Burt
MARCHES AND CEREMONIAL Authentic sound recordings from the last century CARLIN CAS 029. This recent 2-CD set from Carlin Production Music offers an astonishing array of marches of all kinds. Just a few are familiar (such as American anthems) but the rest are seemingly from a variety of sources and cultures which enthusiasts of this kind of music should find intriguing. It’s fun to sample in small batches, and the catalogue number will alert collectors to the fact that this archive series from Carlin has now built up to an impressive body of repertoire spanning many different moods. David Ades Carlin CDs are only available from the RFS Record Service.
TO LOVE AGAIN - Chris Botti with the London Sessions Orchestra Various singers including: Sting (Embraceable You), Paula Cole (My One And Only Love), Michael Buble (Let There Be Love), Gladys Knight (Lover Man), Paul Buchanan (Are You Lonesome Tonight?)... (59:45) Columbia 826 7677 5052. As with his previous CD Chris employs top class arrangers and musicians. An amalgam of lyricism and stirring exploration, all the musicians impress individually and as a unit, again a cross of jazz and soul music, very hard to categorise. Jeremy Lubbock’s string writing is spellbinding, only one track let down by a weak vocal. Chris’s pianist Billy Child’s writes the Gill Evans ‘Chug’ intoPennies from Heaven. Greg Phillingans arrangement and Fender Rhodes playing on Good Morning Heartache provides real competition. Chris and his eloquent trumpet soloing has set a winning formula. I hope he keeps them coming! Paul Clatworthy
AFTERNOON IN RIO Joe Negri with Kim Nazarian, Duduka Dafonseca, Marty Ashby, Dwayne Dolphin, Jay Ashby O Grande Amor, Modinha, Red On Red, Lush Life... (40:55) Jazz MCG-1004. If difficulties arise in purchasing this CD, write to: Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild, 1815 Metropolitan Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233 or visit ww.mcgjazz.org. For those of you who may already know, Joe Negri was known to millions of children as Handyman Negri, working alongside Fred Rogers on the popular PBS show Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. What many haven’t known until recently that he is also a great jazz artist of the first rank. Starting off with Jobim’s O Grande Amor showcases Negri’s lyrical bent with this time honoured bossa nova classic. Kim Nazarian’s clear, vibrant voice comes over beautifully in her duet with trombonist Jay Ashby’s husky vocals. Above it all, Negri rides a high octane flying solo that’s so full of pulsing life. Nazarian is heard to excellent advantage onModinha with Negri’s deeply felt playing on his solo. Jay Ashby plays a great trombone solo during "Red On Red," interacting with Negri as well having more than enough room to stretch as a performer. Negri plays with a quietly driving energy that keeps everyone moving. And just in case you were wondering, Billy Strayhorn’s Lush Life does work as a bossa nova, with a long introduction by Negri alone before settling into the beat with strong yet light support by Duduka DaFonseca on drums. This is simply a magnificent set, short though it may be. It proves that Joe Negri is one great artist. Richard Jessen
ON THE HOLLYWOOD SOUND STAGE - Johnny Green and the MGM Studio Orchestra High society overture, Lili excerpts, Heather On The Hill, Silk Stockings, Glass Slipper, Barretts Of Wimpole Street... (77:48) Frank Bristow FBCD145. A wonderful selection comprising MGM soundtracks and studio recordings from the early 1950s, some of which I haven’t heard for years. One of these isSunday Jumps which I had on a 78 (backed with Fred Astaire’s Every Night at Seven which recalls Fred’s dance with a hat rack and gymnasium equipment...). Another is Serenade for a New Babywhich Marge & Gower Champion did in Everything I have is Yours, and which I remember because it came along at exactly the same time as our new baby. Other soundtracks of the musicals are self-evident, but what might not be so obvious are the dramatic scores by such as Bronislau Kaper (though his Invitation is a latter-day classic), Miklos Rozsa, Herbert Stothart and, of course, Green himself. But I don’t think that at this stage we need another An American in Paris as heavily re-edited by Green and Saul Chaplin to fit the screen action. This is a valuable contribution by the estimable Frank Bristow to the ever-growing library of orchestral music. Arthur Jackson
STRIKE UP THE BAND! - Band of the Royal Swedish Air Force/Jerker Johansson Wind Band Classics Series - Including Florentine March, Entry Of The Gladiators (Fucik), March Of The Toys(Alford), Anchors Aweigh (Zimmerman), Under The Double Eagle (J.F.Wagner), Military March No.1(Schubert)... (77:00) Naxos 8.557545. this latest new arrival from Naxos, described as ‘marches from around the world’, is a generously filled disc mainly of popular parade marches but with several less predictable choices. Thus included here are such famous and renowned personages as The Dambusters, whose outer sections are rather too briskly done, Old Comrades and the redoubtableColonel Bogey. The more unexpected items come in the form of Johann Schrammel’s Vienna will always be Vienna, reminiscent of the style of Johann Strauss, whilst Kurt Noaks’ Brownies’ Guard Parade, apparently his one big hit, is a real charmer. Semyon Tchernevsky is not widely known but in his own country is regarded as the Russian Sousa; his march Salute to Moscow is one of his most popular, and it begins with a quotation from Moscow Radio’s interval signal. Gounod’s engagingFuneral March of a Marionette, made famous by Alfred Hitchcock, is beautifully done, and who could not respond to Johannes Hansson’s infectuously tuneful Valdres March, described by composer Ole Olsen as the finest march he had ever heard? This thoroughly exhilarating and enthralling disc is rounded off to splendid effect with Paul Lincke’s exultant and joyous march The Air in Berlin (Berliner Luft ) which originally featured in the composer’s musical Frau Luna and was so successful that he used it again in a 1906 musical which was itself named Berliner Luft. The band of the Royal Swedish Air Force had some unlikely roots when in 1905 some employees of the Gothenburg Tramways Company started a brass sextet which gradually developed to become a fully fledged band owned by the company which, not unreasonably, expected the musicians to serve as tram drivers! From 1992 the name was changed to Goteborgs Musiken and since then has become a fully professional ensemble. Five years on it was commissioned to perform as required at ceremonial events as the Band of the Royal Swedish Air Force. Certainly on the evidence of this new disc there is more than ample evidence of their technical prowess producing a full sound with consistently spot-on intonation. As this impressive new release ticks all the right boxes – generous playing time, super-budget price, superb sound and high technical accomplishment, it earns an automatic recommendation. Rest assured you do not have to be a military band ‘junkie’ to obtain considerable pleasure and satisfaction from this thrilling disc! Roger Hyslop
TOUCHDOWN! - Percy Faith and his Orchestra Mr Touchdown, U.S.A., On, Brave Old Army Team!, Anchors Aweigh, Far Above Cayuga’s Waters, Fight On, Pennsylvania, The Olive And the Blue... 19 tracks. Taragon TARCD-1105. This is a fun and immensely enjoyable CD. It comprises American football songs of the ‘50s performed by Percy’s brass players and a male chorus. I am not surprised to learn that the originals were extensively used by many radio stations for intros to shows about or broadcasts of football games. I don’t suppose it will sell in great numbers outside the US – and even there 32 minutes might be considered short measure. But if like some Faith fans you buy everything he recorded, then you won’t be disappointed by this. Peter Burt
JAZZ/CONCORD/SEVEN COME ELEVEN - Herb Ellis with Joe Pass, Ray Brown, Jake HannaLook for the Silver Lining, Happiness is the Concord Jazz Festival, In a Mellow Tone, Seven Come Eleven... (78:58) Concord Jazz CCD2-2168-2. This CD set contains the very first performances recorded by Concord Records in 1973 and 1974 respectively. And what performers! When one has Herb Ellis and Joe Pass on guitars with Ray Brown on bass and Jake Hanna on drums, the experience is one which few people will ever want to leave out of their jazz collections. With an exquisite beginning played by Joe Pass, Look for the Silver Lining leads off the first CD Jazz/Concord with an eloquence seldom heard either live or recorded. Stuffy shows off the group’s cohesiveness whileGeorgia brilliantly displays the different characteristics of Pass and Ellis: the former with his bright, cleanly articulated playing while Ellis is a softer edged yet edgy attitude to his playing. The second disc Seven Come Eleven is a live 1974 performance at the Concord Summer Festival which Carl Jefferson, the Festivals’ president and general manager, sets the tone with a terse, "Have a good time and listen to some fine guitar interplay." An understatement if there ever is one! The first three tracks alone demonstrate what great performances come out of the Ellis-Pass Duo. There is some fine gelling between these two gentlemen on In a Mellow Tone with a delicious solo played by the world’s finest bass player, Ray Brown. But mellow, it’s not, with a fine driving beat. The title track,Seven Come Eleven is literally fireworks on the frets with Ellis, Pass, and Ray Brown burning it up with fiery solos and tight group work. Jake Hanna spurs everyone on with a quietly driving force. This essential classic is available in various formats. However, this two disc set is the best as the sound is clear with a fine sense of stage presence. Don’t miss it! Richard Jessen
HALL OF FAME Volume 2 - Various Artists Hard on the heels of Vol 1 of The Hall of Fame (GUILD GLCD5120 – JIM 168) comes its new companion – Vol II (GUILD GLCD5124). Once again we are presented with a compilation which, on its own admission, "mixes the familiar with – occasionally – the unknown". The disc opens with a version of Zes Confrey’s Dizzy Fingers by Percy Faith, which makes use of a small choir (billed as ‘The Magic Voices’), using a vocalese style which also became popular with other British and American orchestras during the ’50s. Another notable inclusion isPossession (from Harry Revel’s Perfume Set To Music) by the Les Baxter Orchestra, which features the electronic music instrument known as the "Theremin"; this track was discovered by our US-based RFS member Enrique Renard. Also worthy of special mention is the amazing Angela Morley arrangement of Victor Herbert’s March Of The Toys, performed by the Geraldo Tip Top Tunes Orchestra, which dates from 1949 – you’ve never heard it like this before! Whilst the majority of tracks are taken from commercial (USA and UK) sources, some publishers’ recordings have been included, providing an interesting contrast to the former. The featured composer this time is none other than the late lamented Leonard Charles Trebilco. Writing under the name of Steve Bretton as well as his usual pseudonym of Trevor Duncan he is accorded the honour of four tracks, including of course High Heels and Grand Vista (the famous Pearl and Dean theme). This is a carefully chosen programme which, aided by a particularly satisfying sound quality, will give a great deal of pleasure.Tony Clayden
CHILDHOOD MEMORIES - Various Artists The second new Guild Music offering brings the current total in the series to twenty-five – a quite remarkable achievement on the part of all concerned – and for me is a real winner. Although the title "Childhood Memories" (GLCD 5125) is a reference to the names of the various compositions which all have children’s connotations, a number of the pieces themselves evoke powerful memories of my own childhood. As described in Peter Luck’s excellent article on BBC Television Newsreel (also in JIM 168), the Corporation introduced a spinoff – BBC Children’s Television Newsreel – in 1950. I watched this regularly from the beginning; we had acquired our first TV during 1948. At least three of the tracks were often used behind the newsreel stories – Playbox (F. Charrosin), Toy Town Parade (A. Ferraris) and a piece I have waited more than fifty years to hear once again – one of the movements (Marbles) from Joseph Engleman’s delightfulChildren’s Playtime Suite. Unfortunately, the correct order of the four movements has not been followed on the CD (Ring O’Roses should be placed first, not last; the other three are as the composer intended), and I am grateful to RFS member David Mardon for providing this information. A probable fourth contender is Angela Morley’s Tinkerbell, which I am pretty certain appeared from time to time on Children’s Newsreel. UK readers of a certain age may also remember the series of "Whitehall Farces" staring Brian Rix, starting with the famous Dry Rot. These were screened during the ’50s and early ’60s directly from London’s Whitehall Theatre, and the intro music was always Roger Roger’s Clowneries, whilst another favourite of mine, Clockwork Clown (Edward White) was featured for a time around 1953/4 on the daily BBC demonstration film broadcast for the benefit of the Radio and Television trade. There are many other hugely enjoyable pieces on this absolute gem of a CD. Alan Bunting has worked his usual magic and these vintage tracks have never sounded so good. ‘Childhood Memories’ is highly recommended, especially to those who were amongst the first generation of "TV kids" in the pioneering days of post-war British television. For a full track listing for both of these new releases see JIM 168. Tony Clayden
With thanks to Wilfred Askew for the following details of recent releases...
THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT - Various Artists A 6-CD set celebrating the golden age of MGM musicals, 1929-58. 135 remastered soundtrack recordings from: Singin’ In The Rain, An American In Paris, High Society, Annie Get Your Gun, Show Boat, Kiss Me Kate, Seven Brides For Seven Brothers, Meet Me In St Louis, The Wizard Of Oz... With performances by Fred Astaire, Bing Crosby, Doris Day, Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne. Includes one disc of 25 newly discovered tracks, and a 108 page booklet. (7 hours 50 mins) Rhino 8122 73192-2.
JAZZ ACCORDION - Jo Basile and his Orchestra Original Audio Fidelity recording, includingLullaby Of Birdland, Don’t Blame Me, A Fine Romance, Pennies From Heaven, Taking A Chance On Love, On The Sunny Side Of The Street... (31:02) Blue Moon BMCD 1623, Distributor: Discovery.
LISTEN - The Hi-Los with Orchestra conducted by Frank Comstock Original 1955 Starlite recording, including June In January, I Don’t Want To Cry Anymore, Whatever Lola Wants, Fools Rush In, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Where Are You?... (27:56) Cherry Red ACMEM67CD
MAH-NA-MAH-NA - The Dave Pell singers Original 1969 Liberty release, including Oh, Calcutta!, Sugar Sugar, Keem-O-Sabe, Laughing, Get Together, Sweet Caroline... (34:17) Cherry Red ACMEM77CD
NAT: AN ORCHESTRAL PORTRAIT OF NAT KING COLE - Nelson Riddle and his OrchestraOriginal 1965 Reprise recording, including Straighten Up And Fly Right, It’s Only A Paper Moon, Mona Lisa, Pretend, Ballerina, Ramblin’ Rose... (34:21) Collectables COL-CD-6736
WHITE ON WHITE AND OTHER HITS OF 1964 - Nelson Riddle and his Orchestra Original 1964 Reprise recording, including Shangri-La, The Shelter Of Your Love, Java, Beautiful Obsession, I Wish You Love, My Heart Cries For You... (28:28) Collectables COL-CD-6737
PARIS WHEN IT SIZZLES/INTERPRETS GREAT MUSIC, GREAT FILMS, GREAT SOUNDS - Nelson Riddle and his Orchestra Original 1963 and 1964 Reprise recordings, including Gabrielle, Brandy Glow, That Face, Valse De Paris, Bastille Cha-Cha, Touch Of Tenderness, Charade, Saw Dust And Spangles And Dreams, Little Girl Blue, Over And Over Again, My Romance, This Can’t Be Love...(65:42) Collectables COL-CD-7493
THE SAVAGE AND THE SENSUOUS - The Don Ralke Oorchestra Original 1960 Warner Bros release, including Safradesia, Ju-Ju Man, Zulu Magic, Head Hunter, Poison Dart, Sacrifice Of The Maidens, Session Grande... (48:04) Harkit HRKCD 8207, Distributor: Pinnacle
THROUGH THE YEARS - Hugo Winterhalter and his Orchestra 2 CDs, 49 tracks. Original RCA recordings, including Blue Tango, I Understand, Blue Christmas, Smilin’ Through, Memory Lane, These Foolish Things, Mama, Land Of Dreams, Vanessa, Stairway To The Stars, My Destiny, Unsuspecting Heart, Always, Leave It To Your Heart, On The Trail... (155:22) Jasmine JASCD 436.
BRITISH LIGHT MUSIC PREMIERES Volume 3 - Royal Ballet Sinfonia/Gavin Sutherland, Paul Murphy Rhythmic Overture: Highway to the Sun (Ernest Tomlinson); Overture to a Pantomine(Victor Hely-Hutchinson); Elizabethan Express (Clifton Parker); Three Court Dances (Phillip Lord);Ballet Suite (James Langley).... Dutton Epoch CDLX 7170
MAYNARD FERGUSON HORN 2/THE BALLAD STYLE OF MAYNARD FERGUSON - Maynard Ferguson "Maynard Ferguson Horn 2" CBS 65027 (1972) Give it One (Downey; Ferguson arr Alan Downey); Country Road (Taylor arr Keith Mansfield); Theme from Shaft (Hayes arr Keith Mansfield);The Summer Knows (Legrand; Bergman arr Kenny Wheeler); Mother (Lennon arr Keith Mansfield);Spinning Wheel (Clayton-Thomas arr Adrian Drover)... "The Balland Style of Maynard Ferguson" CBS 63514 (1969) with the Keith Mansfield Orchestra. Born Free (Barry; Black); Girl Talk (Hefti; Troup);If He Walked Into My Life (Herman); The Fool on the Hill (Lennon; McCartney); The Impossible Dream (Leigh; Darion); Somewhere (Bernstein; Sondheim)...Vocalion CDSML 8421.
THE MOMENT OF TRUTH/EVERYBODY’S TALKIN’ ABOUT… Salena Jones "The Moment of Truth" CBS 63613 (1969) with the Keith Mansfield Orchestra. For Once in My Life (Miller; Murden); Alone Together (Schwartz; Dietz); For Me (Unknown); This Girl’s in Love (Bacharach; David); Just a Couple of Losers (Unknown); The Moment Of Truth (Satterwhite; Scott)... "Everybody’s Talkin’ About…" CBS 63901 (1970) Am I the Same Girl (Soulful Strut) (Record; Saunders); Everybody’s Talkin’ (Neil);Without Him (Nilsson); My Way (Anka; Thibaut; Revaux; Francois); The More I See You (Gordon; Warren); Morning Dew (Rose; Dobson)... Vocalion CDSML 8422
TERMINATOR - Nick Ingman Original 1976 recording. Brass Knuckles (Ingman); Come Together(Lennon; McCartney); That’s Fine (Ingman); Tricky Nicky (Ingman); American Pie (McLean); An Octave Faster (Ingman)... Vocalion CDSML 8423
THE RIGHT TIME - The Pete Cater Big Band You Don’t Know What Love Is (Raye; DePaul arr Kevin Wedrychowski); Getting There (Matt Wates arr Wates); Holland Park (Frank Griffith arr Griffith); Firm Roots (Cedar Walton arr Adrian Fry); Teach Me Tonight (Cahn; DePaul arr Frank Griffith); Yes and No (Wayne Shorter arr Adrian Fry)... Vocalion CDSA 6815
