Search - Bix Beiderbecke :: Bix Restored Volume 2: 1927-1928

Bix revealed!

R. Dixon | Arkansas USA | 01/05/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The restoration of this material, mostly from Bix's early time with the Paul Whiteman Orchestra, is phenomenal. With John R.T. Davies' outstanding restoration, I find myself forgetting this stuff was recorded 80 years ago. I have never heard Bix's "Whiteman" material in such good sound quality. Because the restoration is so good, you not only get to hear Bix's incredible improvisation on the Cornet, but you also hear the incredible Steve Brown's driving string bass on many of the selections. Bix was at his technical and musical peak when these recording were made, so this volume is definitely not to be missed. Plus, many of these recordings were successful popular hits. You'll also get to hear popular artists like Bing Crosby and the vocal group The Rhythm Boys. About 2/3 of the set is the Paul Whiteman material, but 1/3 of the set consists of various small group recordings, most of them under the direction of C Melody Saxophone innovator Frank Trumbauer (Prez, Lester Young often cited Trumbauer as a major musical influence on him). For anyone interested in early jazz and 20's pop music this set is a treasure trove."