Tag: Cootie Williams and his Rug Cutters

A sharp lil’ number by the Duke’s men led by lead growler Cootie Williams on trumpet. Vocals are smoothly handled by Scat Powell.

Recorded in New York City on August 2, 1938.
Released as Vocalion v4324.

Credits:
Cootie Williams – trumpet
Johnny Hodges – soprano sax, alto sax
Otto Hardwick – alto sax, bass sax
Barney Bigard – clarinet, tenor sax
Harry Carney – baritone sax
Duke Ellington – piano
Billy Taylor – string bass
Sonny Greer – drums
Scat Powell – vocals

A very clean and enjoyable transfer of a pristine record.

“Jubilesta” was a hot and moody composition by Puerto Rican trombonist Juan Tizol, who had found success the previous year with his composition “Caravan”, which he sold outright to Irving Mills for $25.

The track was recorded with a smaller combination of players from the Duke Ellington band. Ellington himself is credited on the session – though his piano is not audible on this track to my ears.

Excellent solos and a solid rhythm section make this record a real gem.

0:00 Intro and Clarinet solo (Bigard)
0:58 Trombone solo (Tizol)
1:47 Trumpet solo (Williams)

Recorded in New York City on October 26, 1937.
Released as Vocalion 3922.

Cootie Williams – trumpet
Juan Tizol – valve trombone
Otto Hardwick – alto sax
Barney Bigard – clarinet, tenor sax
Harry Carney – baritone sax
Duke Ellington – piano
Billy Taylor – string bass
Sonny Greer – drums