Bill Elliott Swing Orchestra - Swing Fever (1994)

The Bill Elliott Swing Orchestra differs from most swing bands today in that it sounds very much like an orchestra from circa 1940 and yet most of its repertoire consists of originals by its leader-pianist-arranger. In other words, the music and writing are quite creative within the vintage swing style. For its debut recording, the big band performs ten Elliott originals plus four standards. Clarinetist Bob Reitmeier, tenor saxophonist Roger Neumann, and trombonist Andy Martin are among the main "names" in the band, yet many of the lesser-known players also take excellent solos. Amy Weston sings two numbers and the Vocalworks (a fine four-voice ensemble) is a major asset too. Recommended both for retro swing listeners and fans of early swing who are open-minded enough to discover a new big band. ~ Scott Yanow

Personnel: Bill Elliott (piano); Mike Geiger, Amy Weston (vocals); Paul Viapiano (guitar, piano); Mark Linnet (recorder); Bill Liston, Bob Reitmeier (clarinet, alto saxophone); Roger Neumann (clarinet, tenor saxophone); Jay Mason (bass clarinet, alto saxophone, baritone saxophone); Chuck Erdahl (tenor saxophone); Darrel Gardner, Peter Olstad, Wayne Bergeron (trumpet); Alex Iles, Andy Martin , John Grab (trombone); Gordon Peeke (drums).