Search - Louis Prima, Keely Smith :: On Stage

That old time music

10/26/1998

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Another one of Dot Records released on to CD by Jasmine Records, this recording was made at Wilbur Clark's Desert Hotel Inn. Surprisingly, it features Prima's trumpet playing more than anything. Much to my dismay, there were no duets between Louis and Keely during this particular performance, and we only hear two short songs from Keely. Lou Sino does his best displaying his ability to double and triple tongue on "12th Street Rag," while Sam struts his stuff on "Crazy Little Bee." These songs are nice, but seem to lack the swing of the previous Capitol live LP's "The Wildest Show at Tahoe" and "Las Vegas Prima Style." Louis outdoes himself on his own composition "The Chief's Special," a song titled to reference his nickname within the band. We hear very little (as usual) from Morgan Thomas, who shadows Lou Sino on alto valve trombone. Keely's vocals are deep and mournful on Sinatra's "This Love of Mine," but Louis manages to keep spirit alive with his quips and comedy. The big surprise comes in the ending (I won't ruin the surprise), which is pre-empted by an amazing power-house arrangement of "It Happened in Monterrey." Though it lacks some of the original drive, for both collectors and fans this CD is still one that is top-notch."

Great CD fair sound

Edward Brydalski | Buffalo New York | 12/04/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I've been playing this record since I've been three. Im not lying.

I love Louis scatting and Sam Butera's truly amazing horn playing.

My dads original vinyl is worn. I replaced it with a pre-recorded reel to reel tape. This sounded much better(Bel Canto). When I saw the CD was available, I assumed that Jasmine would use the master tape or at least a safety. Hell, even my personal reel is better than this CD.

I believe they used a record and then applied CEDAR noise reduction to clean it up.

They should state that its not from a master on the box ya think?

At least it's out there but it does not do the record justice.

Also the quality varies and changes right during songs. Its amazing.

Jasmine should get new mastering techs or listen closer to their product."