BillF

Gavin Strang Patience Strong Everton Weekes

I think this is where our tastes diverge, Richard. Shavers was a powerful and exciting mainstream trumpeter, though I'd prefer Eldridge if I had to make a choice. I listened to Afrique a while ago and thought that Nelson's arrangements didn't suit Basie, who did so well with arrangers like Benny Carter, Quincy, Hefti and Nestico. (Bill Holman was another arranger who wasn't right for Basie IMHO.)

Jack the Dripper The Honey Dripper Roosevelt Sykes

Currently reading this, following recommendations here and, yes, it's good. There are frequent references to Laurie Verchomin's Evans memoir. Has anyone read this? Would you recommend it? Also a mention of Gene Lees's Meet Me at Jim and Andy's: Jazz Musicians and their World, which is described as a book of anecdotes. If it's anything like Bill Crow's Jazz Anecdotes, I'd like to read it. Anyone know it?

Wilson Pickett Slim Pickens Peter Piper

No mention of blues on the cover and no vocals, but 5 of the 6 tracks are blues of the deepest tinge.

Jack Spratt Pratt & Whitney Dick Berk

Chappie D'Amato Chippie Hill Michael Fish

Yes, great stuff! Pleased I was around early enough to catch Spoon, Ben and Mel in person - though not together, of course! And you can't beat this:

Now playing:

Randolph Churchill Randy Brecker Karen Horney