Adrian Rollini - Original 1938-1940 Recordings

All Music Guide

A masterful bass saxophonist, Adrian Rollini had switched by 1938 full-time to the vibraphone. He recorded 21 selections during the period covered by this LP, which has 16 of the numbers. The first eight songs find Rollini (doubling occasionally on xylophone) leading a quintet also including cornetist Bobby Hackett, guitarist Frank Victor, bassist Harry Clark, and (somewhat out of place) the young drummer Buddy Rich. Unfortunately, either Sonny Schuyler or the three-voice Tune Twisters have vocals on each of the pieces; however, Hackett's playing largely compensates. The second half of the album showcases the Rollini-Victor-Clark trio. Although Adrian Rollini was not on the level of Lionel Hampton, he was fluid on the vibes, and his easy listening improvising is enjoyable. Highlights overall include "You're a Sweetheart," "Diga Diga Doo," "Honky Tonk Train Blues," and "Martha -- Ah So Pure." With the exception of an obscure LP in the early '50s, these were Rollini's final recordings. -... Scott Yanow, All Music Guide Read more Less