Search - Zoot Sims :: Swinger

The Sims Brothers - A Rarity

J. E. Billmann | West Bend, Wisconsin | 04/08/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This album will not go down as one of the great jazz albums but it is, nonetheless, a rare opportunity to hear Zoot and brother Ray perform. (Both have passed away.) Trombonist Ray is heard in many big band recordings where he has done solo work, but in this album he gets to solo more extensively with a small group. Ray has often been compared to Bill Harris, but he has never been regarded as a great jazz trombonist. But who cares? He certainly is a respected trombonist and person. He doesn't embarrass himself doing these solo spots.



This is a pleasant listening selection of numbers supported by Jimmie Rowles, piano; John Heard, bass; and Shelley Mann, drums. This a pretty formidable group. Zoot and Ray perform adequately while keeping the selections light and controlled. Nothing wild here. Great album to play if you're holding a dinner party."