Search - Bing Crosby :: Jazzin Bing Crosby (1927-1940)

File Under Jazz

Barry McCanna | Normandy, France | 08/09/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"That's what it says on the jewel case, as if you wouldn't! Eddie Lang's guitar introduces the first track and Bix Beiderbecke is featured on all twelve of the Whiteman sides, plus one by Trumbauer. Add in three by Sam Lanin's Famous Players, three by the Dorsey Brothers Orchestra, and one by Gus Arnheim & his Cocoanut Grove Orchestra, and you'll get some idea of what's on offer here. And that's just the first disc! The second includes The Mills Brothers, Duke Ellington, Don Redman, Isham Jones, Lennie Hayton, Irving Aaronson, Jimmy Dorsey, Bob Crosby, Joe Venuti, and Bing's brother Bob.



Throughout, whether singing with Harry Barris and Al Rinker (as The Rhythm Boys) or solo, Bing shows himself light years ahead of the contemporary competition (and most of what's come after). Every track is a delight, and several are considerable rarities in their original 78 form. The set is topped off by a booklet with background and discographical information. An indispensable acquisition for Crosby and/or jazz fans.

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