John Kirby - 1938-1939 {The Chronological Classics, 750}

The first of three Classics CDs reissuing all of the John Kirby Sextet's recordings during its prime years (1938-1943) has the group's earliest 22 recordings. Although the first five numbers were originally issued under the name "John Kirby & His Onyx Club Boys," the famous personnel were already in place: bassist Kirby, trumpeter Charlie Shavers (then only 21), altoist Russell Procope, clarinetist Buster Bailey, pianist Billy Kyle, and drummer O'Neil Spencer (who took an occasional vocal). The group's unique cool-toned sound, tricky ensembles, and often atmospheric music definitely stood out during an era dominated by loud big bands. There are quite a few classics on this CD, including "Rehearsin' for a Nervous Breakdown," the original version of Shavers' "Undecided," "Dawn on the Desert," "Royal Garden Blues," and "Nocturne." Highly recommended, as are the two other Classics Kirby discs.

Tracks:

01. Rehearsin' For A Nervous Breakdown (2:41)
02. From A Flat To C (2:37)
03. Pastel Blue (3:11)
04. Undecided (3:02)
05. By The Waters Of Minnetonka (3:10)
06. It Feels So Good (2:45)
07. Effervescent Blues (2:50)
08. The Turf (2:53)
09. Dawn On The Desert (2:55)
10. Anitra's Dance (2:48)
11. Sweet Georgia Brown (2:51)
12. Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes (3:00)
13. Minute Wlatz (2:33)
14. Front And Center (2:57)
15. Royal Garden Blues (2:33)
16. Opus 5 (2:49)
17. Fantasy Impromptu (2:39)
18. Blue Skies (2:40)
19. Rose Room (In Sunny Roseland) (2:38)
20. I May Be Wrong (But I Think You're Wonderful) (3:02)
21. Little Brown Jug (2:46)
22. Nocturne (2:44)