Feeling Like a Dream

By the time Larry Clinton & His Orchestra had recorded the 24 selections on this CD, their star singer, Bea Wain, had left to start her own solo career, but Peggy Mann proved to be a fine replacement. Butch Stone (who would soon become associated with Les Brown's band) was an asset (more as a good-humored singer than as a baritonist) and the quality of Clinton's obscure sidemen remained quite high. This third Clinton Hep CD has many of his best recordings from 1940-1941, including "Feeling Like a Dream," Buster Harding's "Jump Joe," "Arab Dance," and "Jazz Me Blues." The sidemen may not have become famous, but they sound fine taking concise solos, and Clinton's arrangements keep the music swinging. This is an underrated swing band well worth checking out.