Jess Stacy - Tribute to Benny Goodman (CD)

All Music Guide

This album was one of pianist Jess Stacy's last (he would soon drift into semi-retirement), even though he was only 50 at the time and lived until 1994. Stacy leads a reunion of swing veterans (most of whom had formerly been with Benny Goodman) in a nonet including trumpeter Ziggy Elman (on one of his last significant sessions) and either Vido Musso or Babe Russin on tenor. In addition, Stacy is showcased on four trio numbers. With few exceptions ("Gee Baby Ain't I Good to You" and "Blues for Otis Ferguson"), the music is all taken from the repertoire of Benny Goodman's swing band, including "King Porter Stomp," "When Buddha Smiles," "Roll 'Em," "Don't Be That Way," and a brief "Sing, Sing, Sing." Easily recommended to swing collectors.

- Scott Yanow, All Music Guide