Search - Artie Shaw :: Complete Spotlight Band 1945 Broadcasts

Great Band, Great Roy Eldridge

Jeff Lowenthal | Chicago, IL United States | 12/29/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There have been many Artie Shaw collections issued and reissued and this is one of the best!



Some of these versions have been reissued before, but this is the best sound quality I have heard, indicating care in the production, something often missing in such issues.



This was an excellent incarnation of the Shaw orchestra, including Barney Kessel, Dodo Marmarosa, and of course Roy.



Roy shines in every solo appearance, which is enough to earn this CD 5 stars. Herbie Steward (tenor) was popular in the 40's but is mostly forgotten today. These sides remind of of what a nice soloist he was.



Artie, of course, plays with his usual perfection. "Scuttlebutt" by the Gramercy Five is particularly nice. Even the girl vocalist (Imogene Lynne)is inoffensive, something you can't say for many of the vocalists of the 40's.



And again, high marks to Doug Pomeroy, credited with the restoration of these tracks.



If you're an Artie Shaw or Roy Eldridge fan, this set is for you!



"

Super Great!

A. G Provencal | Taunton, MA United States | 08/27/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I never thought that Artie's Complete Victory Parade of Spotlight Bands Shows existed! What a treat to hear these.

Every other record, tape or cd release of Artie Shaw's five VPSB shows were the condensed 15 AFRS versions which elimated half the show.

I wonder where Hep records found the masters?

"