Gosh, it sure sounds like this contrafact of Gershwin’s “I Got Rhythm” is foreshadowing the bebop sensibility! I feel Hamp often gets overlooked in jazz history – he really was a force of nature!
His career took off in 1936 after becoming part of Benny Goodman’s small combo with Gene Krupa and Teddy Wilson – and in 1937 he was invited by Victor to record under his own name. This tune is from his third session for Victor in 1937.
Hamp and an incredible lineup of jazz talent drives this tune home – fueled by the rhythm section of Cozy Cole, John Kirby, and Allan Reuss. Buster Bailey and Johnny Hodges dance around one another for a bit leading into a line of extended solos.
0:00 Intro (Bailey and Hodges)
0:33 Piano (Jess Stacy)
0:49 Guitar (Allan Reuss)
1:07 Clarinet (Buster Bailey)
1:42 Vibes (Hamp)
2:40 Ensemble
Recorded in New York City on April 26, 1937.
Released as Victor 25586.
Credits:
Lionel Hampton – vibes, director
Buster Bailey – clarinet
Johnny Hodges – alto sax
Jess Stacy – piano
Allan Reuss – guitar
John Kirby – string bass
Cozy Cole – drums
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