Shades of Hades

Larry Clinton was best known as a swing-era arranger and bandleader, although he also played trumpet, trombone, and clarinet in the ensembles of his orchestra. After leading two sessions with studio musicians who became surprisingly popular, a reluctant Clinton was persuaded to start a big band of his own, one that lasted for four years (1937-1941). He had a first-class dance band, one capable of playing surprisingly effective jazz while often featuring the clear-toned vocals of Bea Wain. This first of three Clinton CDs for the Hep label has all of the music from the arranger's two sessions with studio players plus the first three with his new band. Among the stronger jazz numbers are "Midnight in the Madhouse," "Abba Dabba," "The Campbells Are Swingin'," a catchy arrangement of "Oh Lady Be Good," and "Wolverine Blues." All three Hep releases are well worth acquiring by swing fans.