Jammin' At Rudi's CD

A couple of rare jam sessions from 1951 that were organized by writer Rudi Blesh in his apartment and recorded are reissued on this Jazzology CD. The first four numbers, all Dixieland standards, are played by a septet featuring trumpeter Dick Smith, clarinetist Tom Sharpsteen, the young trombonist Conrad Janis, pianist Ralph Sutton, banjoist Danny Barker (who is quite prominent in the ensembles), bassist Pops Foster and drummer Freddy Moore; in addition Bob Wilber was inspired to sit in on soprano during a couple of songs. In general the rhythm section outshines the frontline but these renditions of tunes such as "Panama" and "That's a Plenty" have plenty of spirit. Eubie Blake, then just a mere 68, is heard leading a trio on "Maple Leaf Rag" and a previously unrleeased version of "Maryland, My Maryland." These were his only recordings during the 1934-57 period. The release concludes with a slightly more modern jam session that is more in the vein of Kansas City swing. Trumpeter Hot Lips Page (who sings on "Moaning Dan") heads a group also featuring tenor saxophonist Paul Quinichette, trombonist Tyree Glenn and a rhythm section that includes a prominent Sonny Greer on drums. Although the release overall is not quite essential, the music should easily please dixieland and swing fans. ~ Scott Yanow

informal jam session organized & recorded by Rudi Blesh in 1951; the first session includes Conrad Janis, Tom Sharpsteen, Eubie Blake, Danny Barker, Pops Foster +; the second session includes Paul Quintchette, Hot Lips Page, Ken Kersey, Burney Peacock, T

Recording information: Rudi's, NY (01/07/1951/02/10/1951).

Personnel: Danny Barker (guitar, banjo); Bob Wilber (soprano saxophone); Burney Peacock (alto saxophone); Paul Quinichette (tenor saxophone); R.C.H. Smith (trumpet); Conrad Janis, Tyree Glenn (trombone); Ken Kersey, Dan Burley, Eubie Blake, Ralph Sutton (piano); Sonny Greer (drums).

Liner Note Author: George H. Buck, Jr.