Big Swing Face
not only reissues the second recording by
Buddy Rich & His Big Band
but doubles the program with nine previously unissued performances from the same engagement at the
Chez Club
in Hollywood.
Rich
's orchestra was in its early prime, displaying a very impressive ensemble sound, charts by
Bill Holman
,
Shorty Rogers
Bob Florence
Bill Potts
and others, and such soloists as altoist
Ernie Watts
(a newcomer), trumpeter
Bobby Shew
Jay Corre
on tenor and the remarkable drummer/leader. Even with the presence of
"Norwegian Wood"
and
"The Beat Goes On"
(the latter features
's teenage daughter
Cathe
on a vocal), this is very much a swinging set.
has some outstanding solos and lots of drum breaks but does not hog the spotlight; he was justifiably proud of his band. ~ Scott Yanow