Azica
1999
Swingin' The Blues
About This Album
Riding the crest of renewed interest in swing (which Doc Severinsen can take significant credit for) has taken the Tonight Show Band successor into the studios for another swing album, this one honoring the blues. The set kicks off with a brief Stan Kenton-like "Intro a la Indigo" seguing into "C Jam Blues," and after that, the group never looks back. Integral to the success of the album is the drumming by Ed Shaughnessy; suggesting the skills of Gene Krupa, he sustains a steady, relentless beat to drive the band. He solos on "Topsy," recalling the passionate Krupa solo at Carnegie Hall on "Sing, Sing, Sing." Shaughnessy is also featured on "All Blues." He's not all that subtle, but can he swing! Severinsen also provides abundant solo time for other members of the aggregation, as well as allotting some time for himself. He is especially prominent on "West End Blues," an early favorite of Louis Armstrong. After an opening chorus from Severinsen, Bill Perkins comes in, assuming Harry Carney's role on baritone on "In a Sentimental Mood" and getting significant support from Ross Tompkins' piano. Ernie Watts' tenor dominates "C Jam Blues" while Doug Webb's is soulful on "All Blues.
Track List (try tracks 2,4,6,9 and 11)

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