James Morrison - Snappy Doo (1990)

This is an impressive outing. James Morrison, who is equally skilled on trumpet and trombone (exhibiting wide ranges, a skill at improvising in a personal bop style, and a witty sense of humor), creates his own big band on six selections, augmenting his main axes by overdubbing on euphonium, alto, tenor, baritone, and piano while joined by guitarist Herb Ellis, bassist Ray Brown, and drummer Jeff Hamilton. In addition, Morrison's arrangement of "Le Belleclarie Blues" shows off his writing talents. The wide variety of music (mixing together standards and originals) makes for a very colorful set, and Morrison displays his own personality on each of his many axes. Working within the tradition, James Morrison is heard finding his own unique niche.