Complete Sidney Bechet 1 & 2
Sidney Bechet was one of the greatest early jazz players, a true original whose technique and invention on clarinet and soprano saxophone were unparalleled. He was able to play both with dazzling virtuosity and deep blues feeling. This set opens with classic 1932 recordings by the New Orleans Feetwarmers, a band he co-led with trumpeter Tommy Ladnier. "Sweetie Dear" is an irresistible dance number; "Maple Leaf Rag" is staggeringly hot. On "Indian Summer" and "One O'Clock Jump," from 1940, Bechet cuts a swath as the featured soloist in a quartet with drummer Kenny Clarke. "Blues in Thirds" and "Blues for You, Johnny" are terrific sides with pianist Earl Hines, Rex Stewart on cornet, Johnny Lindsay on bass, and Baby Dodds on drums. "Coal Black Shine," from 1941, features Red Allen on trumpet and J.C. Higgenbottom on trombone.--John Swenson