Jerry Jerome Boca Raton Florida May 19, 1998 CD

Jerry Jerome was best known for his work as a sideman in bands led by Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Lionel Hampton, and others, but he remained active as a musician, though the tenor saxophonist had few recordings released under his leadership until late in his life. This 1998 concert states it was digitally recorded, but it sounds more like an audience tape made from the front of the hall, with very poor pickup of the leader's comments, and audible audience conversations in spots. That said, Jerome and his band, which includes part-time Florida resident Eddie Higgins on piano, trumpeter Davey Jones, trombonist John Allred, bassist Phil Flanigan, and drummer Ed Metz Jr., offer around an hour's worth of terrific swing and traditional jazz classics. Jerome also throws in a few personal anecdotes from his days working with Goodman (who asked Jerome if he could get out of going to his grandfather's funeral in order to make a band rehearsal!). It's a shame that the engineering wasn't better, as the music heard by the enthusiastic audience on that spring evening in Boca Raton is of high caliber. ~ Ken Dryden

15 tracks w. Jerome & his All-Stars, feat Davey Jones, John Allred, Eddie Higgens, Phil Flanigan & Ed Metz Jr.

Recorded live in Boca Raton, Florida on May 19, 1998.

Jerry Jerome & His All Stars: Jerry Jerome (saxophone); Davey Jones (cornet); John Alred (trombone); Eddie Higgins (piano); Phil Flanigan (bass); Ed Metz Jr. (drums).