Harry James

This third installment in the Classics Harry James chronology opens with nine solid sides recorded in Los Angeles during November of 1939. Seven of these are fine examples of big-band swing created expressly for dancing purposes. The lively and dramatic "Concerto for Trumpet" is a masterpiece in miniature. "Flash" and "Avalon" were based on arrangements written by the great Andy Gibson. One player deserving of wider recognition is pianist Jack Gardner, an able technician who rocks like a fiend during "Back Beat Boogie." Although the public certainly enjoyed these records, the men who ran Columbia, having expected quicker sales and larger profits, chose to eliminate Harry James from their roster shortly after the session of November 30th…

Harry James was one of the most outstanding instrumentalists of the swing era, employing a bravura playing style that made his trumpet work instantly identifiable. He was also one of the most popular bandleaders of the first half of the 1940s, and he continued to lead his band until just before his death, 40 years later.

This CD features the Harry James Orchestra during an era when it was often overshadowed by the modernists. Ironically James' big band was rarely as advanced than during this period, when it was somewhat influenced by bebop. Other than two vocals, the performances put the emphasis on James's trumpet, the skills of his sidemen (including altoist Willie Smith and tenor saxophonist Corky Corcoran) and the full ensemble.

Recorded July 29th & 30th, 1976 in Wylie Chapel and March 26th-30th, 1979 in Wylie Chapel.
Harry James was one of the most outstanding instrumentalists of the swing era, employing a bravura playing style that made his trumpet work instantly identifiable. He was also one of the most popular bandleaders of the first half of the 1940s, and he continued to lead his band until just before his death, 40 years later.

If you are a fan of Harry James, this is likely a recording you'll want to find unless you own them already. Still, having all four of these original recordings – One Night Stand, Harry James in Hi-Fi, Jazz Session, and More Harry James in Hi-Fi all together – is a treat. Though well beyond his initial foray into big-band swing jazz, but not past his prime, James is here on two CDs that document live concert dates at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago in October of 1952, in Hollywood during the winter of 1954 and 1955, and in July of 1955…