Adrian Rollini and the Golden Gate Orchestra 1924-1927 - Their Hottest Titles Recorded for the Pathe and Plaza Labels

During the 1920s, a Midwestern, New York-based hot dance band commonly known as the California Ramblers made more records than any other jazzed-up ensemble, using an amazing assortment of aliases while hopping from label to label. In 2006, Timeless released a 26-track sampling of this group's best work from the years 1924-1927, ostensibly focusing on the anchoring presence of virtuoso bass saxophonist Adrian Rollini using material originally issued under the name of the Golden Gate Orchestra. While this excellent stash of vintage entertainments (subtitled "Their Hottest Titles Recorded for the Pathe and Plaza Labels") rates highly in both the Rollini and Ramblers discographies, it certainly does not contain all of their hottest Pathe and Plaza sides, as several choice cuts are not included. There are also numerous recordings which appeared on other labels such as Perfect, Oriole, Domino, and Banner. Unlike Jazz Oracle's almost completely vocal Rollini edition of 2006, this collection has predominately instrumental tracks. The nine exceptions have vocals by John Ryan, Ernest Hare (one half of the Happiness Boys), and the orchestra's manager Ed Kirkeby. Instrumentalists of note include the Dorsey Brothers, Red Nichols, and trombonist Abe Lincoln. Peppered with authentic jazz tunes like "Delirium," "Farewell Blues," "Tiger Rag," "Lots O' Mama," and the "Jelly Roll Blues," this spunky little album is highly recommended as a solid collection of early 20th century vocal pop and instrumental dance music.