This mystery band has been the object of much debate over the last century. Pirate reissues on the Tempo and Biltmore labels have billed the band as one led by none other than King Oliver himself, though this is now regarded as a specious claim.
Andy Sanella was interviewed two weeks before his death in 1962 and said that it was himself and Mike Mosiello on this record – recording with the Grey Gull studio band.
More recently, it has been suggested that this is a hitherto unidentified band led by Porter Grainger, who is listed as the composer on all four songs recorded during this session.
While confirmation on personnel may never be a settled matter, what is clear is that this is a great record! The subdued yet bouncy piano, muted trumpet, alto sax, and beseeching clarinet all work to give this composition a unique sound of its own.
Recorded in New York City in November, 1929.
Released as Van Dyke 71804.
Also released as Grey Gull 1804, Radiex 1804, and Supreme 1804 (as the Memphis Jazzers).
Credits:
Porter Grainger (?) – piano, leader (?)
Unknown Artists – trumpet, clarinet, alto sax
An excellent summary of the attempts to identify personnel written by Laurens Hetrzdahl for Vintage Jazz Mart can be found at:
https://www.vjm.biz/newpage4.htm