Critic's Review
Scott Yanow, All Music Guide
This LP (imported from Sweden) has the earliest documentation of Andy Kirk and His Clouds of Joy performing live, taken from radio broadcasts. Cut at the Trianon Ballroom during a nine-day period, Kirk's band is heard playing their typical repertoire from the period. Fortunately the jazz pieces are emphasized (there is not much of Pha Terrell's popular but dated vocalizing) and the solo stars include pianist Mary Lou Williams (the band's chief arranger), tenor-saxophonist Dick Wilson and many lesser-known players. Highlights include "Swingtime in the Rockies," "Froggy Bottom," "Moten Swing" and "All the Jive Is Gone." Solid swing.
