This is the first album Don Neely's San Francisco-based Royal Society Jazz Orchestra (founded in November 1975) cut for the Circle label. The play list is filled with gems that were heard during the halcyon days when radio was the major family entertainment. Part of that entertainment was the broadcast of the kinds of music heard on this album, either remotes from hotel ballrooms and restaurants or through regularly sponsored broadcasts. Using arrangements that are the same or similar to those used by the bands of the '20s, ...
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This is the first album Don Neely's San Francisco-based Royal Society Jazz Orchestra (founded in November 1975) cut for the Circle label. The play list is filled with gems that were heard during the halcyon days when radio was the major family entertainment. Part of that entertainment was the broadcast of the kinds of music heard on this album, either remotes from hotel ballrooms and restaurants or through regularly sponsored broadcasts. Using arrangements that are the same or similar to those used by the bands of the '20s, '30s, and '40s, Neely's band has an air of authenticity about it that is unsurpassed by others playing nostalgia music. This album recreates the music of such popular figures of the times as Fletcher Henderson ("Radio Rhythm"), Benny Goodman and Helen Ward ("Throwin' Stones at the Sun"), and Libby Holman ("Moanin' Low"). To his credit, Neely has avoided the temptation to stick with those tunes that have survived and become entries in the Great American Songbook. There are novelty tunes here that have not seen the light of day for quite a while. Listen to Carla Normand do "Swing, Mister Charlie" (made popular by Judy Garland with Bob Crosby & His Orchestra). The band is well-versed in the syncopated rhythms that were popular during those days. Carla Normand does the bulk of the vocalizing with poise and assurance. Leader Neely, in addition to playing all the reeds, chips in with 1930s-style warbling on tunes like "Honolulu Baby." This album is a lot of fun and is recommended. ~ Dave Nathan, Rovi
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Seller's Description:
Good. This item has very light surface scratches that do not affect the use of the disc/s. This is a USED item. Case and cover may or may not have wear or damage. All items unless otherwise noted will include disc, case, and artwork. Codes have been used. Other contents such as booklets may vary, please inquire for details. All items ship Monday-Friday within 2-3 business days.
