BARRETT DEEMS BIG BAND

 

Barrett Deems, 81 at the time of this recording, will always be best known for his stint with the Louis Armstrong All-Stars in the 1950s. After settling in Chicago, the drummer became the leader of a top-notch jazz orchestra which made its recording debut on this Delmark release. Deems, whose musical role model is Buddy Rich, is in top form throughout the set, which is a bit surprising considering his shaky health at the time. The performances (mostly veteran standards) are usually hard-driving and always swing. The many concise solos are unfortunately unidentified; trumpeter Brad Goode is the only one of the sidemen really known outside of Chicago, although vibraphonist Duane Thamm is clearly a strong asset to the 18-piece band. Few surprises occur during this conventional date, but the music is very enjoyable and makes one aware of some of the many musical talents that reside in Chicago

Bailey
Trumpet  John Bailey
Trumpet
Lorin Binford
Trombone
Rich Corpolongo
Flute, Sax (Alto)
Robert Curtis
Guitar
Barrett Deems
Drums, Primary Artist
Barrett Deems Big Band
Primary Artist
Peter Elliman
Trumpet
Brad Goode
Trumpet
Jane Johnson
Flute, Producer, Sax (Alto), Supervisor
Craig Kaucher
Arranger, Trombone (Bass)
Mike Levin
Clarinet, Flute, Multi Instruments, Sax (Tenor)
Peewee Mckindra
Bass
Michael McLaughlin
Trumpet
Mike McLaughlin
Trumpet
Tim McNamara
Clarinet, Flute, Multi Instruments, Sax (Tenor)
Audrey Morrison
Trombone
Chuck Parrish
Trumpet
Scott Roberts
Trombone
Duane Thamm
Vibraphone