Does Gene Krupa rock? Hell yeah!!
Does Gene Krupa rock on this album? Hell
But don't lose all faith people. This happens to be a really great little album with a cool yet modern swing. I can only assume that Granz figured Krupa's name would help to sell the record. If that wasn't the case then I welcome all suggestions of possible scenarios because Krupa is surely not the leader. Actually, little known black licorice player Gail Curtis is most certainly the highlight of the album. As far as Krupa goes, his first solo is at the end of "The Gang That Sang" and no sooner than him grabbing your attention... it's over!! It's as though Granz and the rest of the band cut him out. The thing that's really frustrating, is the promise of the two bars he plays over is so immensely great. After this, we don't really hear from him until "Three Little Words"... track 7!!! Between this and a small closing solo on Indiana, we get nothing more from one of jazz's great stickmen.
Overall the vibe is laid back with a nice feel. As I said earlier, Gail Curtis really gives this album it's melodic voice and we get something similar to a Buddy DeFranco record. Not too bad a similarity. The back cover includes a really nice write up by Nat Hentoff and is of course, included. This album is an American pressed mono copy, and was ripped at 24/44.1 wav , dithered to 16/44.1 FLAC. I would grade the vinyl at only VG. so we do have some fried chicken to contend with but I think it cleaned up really nicely. Enjoy!!!
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Verve MG V-8276
1957Bass – Mort Herbert; Drums – Gene Krupa; Piano – Teddy Napoleon; Clarinet – Gail Curtis.
A1The Gang That Sang Heart Of My Heart
A2Gone With The Wind
A3Pick Yourself Up
A4Fire Place Blues
A5But Not For Me
B1Memories Of You
B2Three Little Words
B3Avalon
B4I Only Have Eyes For You
B5Indiana (Back Home Again In Indiana)
