A deep depression cut from the Mills Blue Rhythm Band – a band so named for manager Irving Mills, who also famously managed Duke Ellington’s orchestra from 1926 – 1939. The Blue Rhythm Band recorded under a host of pseudonyms and here bandleader Baron Lee gets the credit.
Listening to this uber-hot track, it’s hard to understand how this band did not break out to a larger degree like Ellington and Calloway’s orchestras, who also performed at the Cotton Club with the Mills Blue Rhythm Band. Some blame Mills, who is said to have seen this band as a sort of relief band for his headliner acts. Others say the lack of a consistent leader hurt their image.
Notwithstanding – this track jumps to life quickly and swings hard throughout. Highlights for me are Hayes Alvis’ slapped bass solo at 1:47 and again at 2:08, Edgar Hayes’ hot piano break at 2:02, and the many excellent horn and reed section solos and breaks. Full of aural excitement and a spasm of rhythm that don’t quit, this surely was a popular number with the more energetic dancers when played live.
Recorded in New York City on May 12, 1932.
Released in the UK as Brunswick 1401.
Originally issued in the US as Melotone M-12418, Perfect 15629, and Romeo 1874.
Credits:
Baron Lee – director
Wardell Jones, Shelton Hemphill, Ed Anderson – trumpet
Harry White – trombone, arranger
Henry Hicks – trombone
Charlie Holmes – clarinet, alto sax
Crawford Washington – alto sax, baritone sax
Joe Garland – clarinet, tenor sax, baritone sax
Edgar Hayes – piano
Benny James – banjo, guitar
Hayes Alvis – string bass
O’Neil Spencer – drums
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