Ken Peplowski International Allstars Play Benny Goodman Vol. 1. CD - Import

This Nagel-Heyer release captures a live performance in October of 1995. "International" is an appropriate description for this group. The countries represented on the bandstand that night in Hamburg, Germany, were the United States, Sweden, England, and Italy. Nonetheless, they captured the excitement and vitality of jazz music that transcends all borders. While this session was set up to honor Goodman's small-group performances, there was no attempt to imitate the King of Swing's style or even all the arrangements he used.

The main protagonist on this set is reedman Ken Peplowski. His "Did I Remember" is done in the typical virtuoso, yet relaxed, manner that characterizes his clarinet playing. He's joined by longtime Concord Jazz soul-mate, underappreciated guitarist Howard Alden. "You" features the "use-all-the-piano" hands of Mark Shane and the scintillating vibes of Lars Erstrand, which are constantly in evidence throughout the CD as part of the ensemble and in solo. This very good album is highlighted by the guest appearances of clarinetists Allan Vaché and Antti Sarpila on a medley of tunes especially associated with Goodman: "Memories of You," "Poor Butterfly," "Moonglow," and the last cut "After You've Gone." The appearance of three clarinet players on the same stage together is a sight rarely seen during the days of sax domination. The way these three fed off one another on "After You've Gone" brought down the house, judging from the shouts and huzzahs coming from the audience. Although featured most prominently on clarinet, Peplowski unpacks his tenor for the lengthy, lovely "You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me."

Able backing is provided by a top-flight rhythm section that is equal to the reeds on this session. In addition to Shane and Alden, Joe Ascione (who has emerged as one of the most sought-after drummers on the scene and is a leader in his own right) drives the group as well as Gene Krupa ever did for Goodman. He is aided and abetted by fellow rhythm section player Len Skeat on bass. In the Goodman tradition, this album is 62 minutes of hot, pulsating swing music, mixed with a couple of ballads. Recommended. ~ Dave Nathan

Handel's immortal oratorio is featured in an excellent live performance with the world famous Choir of King's College, Cambridge and featured soloists Lynne Dawson, Hillary Summers, John Mark Ainsley and Alastair Miles. Stephen Cleobury conducts the Brandenburg Consort.

& The International Allstars.

Recorded live at The Amerika Haus, Hamburg, Germany.

Full Title: The International Allstars Play Benny Goodman Vol. 1.

Personnel: Ken Peplowski (tenor saxophone, clarinet); Antti Saarpila, Allan Vache (clarinet); Lars Estrand (vibraphone); Howard Alden (guitar); Len Skeat (bass); Joe Ascione (drums).