Louis Armstrong: The Complete RCA Victor Recordings
Louis Armstrong recorded for RCA Victor for two relatively brief periods in his long career, in the early days of his big band (1932 to '33) and in the period when he broke up the orchestra and returned to a New Orleans-style smaller ensemble (1946 to '47). This four-CD set is evenly divided between the two periods. The early big bands--first drummerChick Webb's and then the trumpeter's own--provide a comfortable setting for Armstrong, who simply reigned supreme among jazz soloists of the period, with peerless invention and a stunning flexibility. He was defining the jazz singer's art as well, his subtle phrasing transforming even casual songs as convincingly as his flamboyant horn. Purists have often mourned Armstrong's shift to large groups, but these are fine bands, driven along by potent drummers like Webb and Big Sid Carlett and manned by distinguished players like saxophonistsLouis JordanandBudd Johnsonand pianistTeddy Wilson. The later recordings find Armstrong leading superb groups, with old associates like trombonistKid Ory, clarinetistBarney Bigard, and drummer Zutty Singleton and classic repertoire likeFats Waller's "Ain't Misbehavin'" andHoagy Carmichael's "Rockin' Chair."The Town Hallrecordings from 1947, with Armstrong trading vocals and solos with trombonistJack Teagarden, are among Louis's greatest work. The set also includes meetings with other musical icons. Armstrong provides bluesy trumpet accompaniment to country singerJimmie Rodgerson a rendition of "Blue Yodel No. 9" and meetsDuke Ellingtonon record for the first time on "Long, Long Journey."--Stuart Broomer