“Stratosphere” – Jimmie Lunceford and his Orchestra (1934)

An early disc from the Jimmie Lunceford band featuring the original composition “Stratosphere”.

Great swingin’ arrangement with a syncopated minimalist head melody. And damn if I don’t hear timpani drums booming in at 1:21! The driving, frenetic bass playing of Moses Allen is also a highlight.

Recorded in New York City on September 4, 1934.
Released as Decca 299.

Credits:
Jimmie Lunceford – director, arranger
Eddie Tompkins, Tommy Stevenson, Sy Oliver – trumpet
Henry Wells, Russell Bowles – trombone
Willie Smith, Earl Carruthers – clarinet, alto sax, baritone sax
Laforet Dent – alto sax
Joe Thomas – clarinet, tenor sax
Edwin Wilcox – piano
Al Norris – guitar
Moses Allen – string bass
Jimmy Crawford – drums, vibes