The Goofus Five were a small combo offshoot of the California Ramblers who recorded for Okeh Records from 1924-29. They originally were five performers, with Adrian Rollini playing the goofus – their slang term for the couesnophone – which looks like a tiny toy saxophone and sounds like a harmonica or accordion.
Over time, their numbers grew and Rollini would often double on the bass sax – which he was well known for. On this record the Goofus “Five” are really the Goofus Seven.
This pleasant toe tapper is full of endearing melodies which seem to spontaneously blossom as the tune progresses. It’s hard not to listen and feel your heart lighten a bit.
While Brian Rust lists Chelsea Quealey on trumpet in his Jazz Records discography, viewer @lindyhoppers has argued that the trumpet on this session is actually Roy Johnston.
Recorded in New York City on October 28, 1925.
Released as Okeh 40500.
Roy Johnston (?) or Chelsea Quealey (?) – trumpet
Bobby Davis – clarinet, soprano sax, alto sax
Sam Ruby – tenor sax
Adrian Rollini – bass sax
Irving Brodsky – piano
Tommy Felline – banjo
Stan King – drums