Search - Wild Bill Davison :: After Hours

Inspired and Hot

John C. Graham | toronto, ontario Canada | 11/14/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This one was recorded live at the Grandview Inn in Columbus Ohio sometime in the early 70's. Wild Bill recorded it on his tape machine for personal use. The tapes were so good that they were eventually released on lp and finally cd.



George Wettling was leading a hot trio with Charlie Queener on piano and Kenny Davern on clarinet when Bill came by to sit in. The engagement was extended for a few weeks because of the popularity of the group. The music that these guys made was relaxed, joyous, and steaming. It was definetely an inspired evening when the tape player was rolling.



Kenny Davern sounds great on clarinet. His strong playing partners well with Bill's cornet lead. The under-recorded Charlie Queener was a fine pianist and a mainstay at Nick's for many years. George Wettling was a brilliant drummer in the Baby Dodds to Cozy Cole mould and a favourite of Eddie Condon. Together, they played Dixie classics in a timeless way. Call it unhurried with heat and in this case it was probably fueled by more than a little scotch or bourbon.



This one is easily worth a listen. It's a real insight into what these guys were still capable of doing on a nightly basis if the mood struck them. Over an hour of choice Wild Bill for your enjoyment. Recommended."