Shout 'Em! in Bloomington, MN

Trombonist
Roy Rubenstein's
Chicago Hot 6, which has been in existence in the Chicago area since 1979, is an excellent pianoless trad sextet. The repertoire on their Delmark debut includes a few standards, but actually emphasizes little-known numbers -- including
"Saratoga Swing,"
Duke Ellington
's "Shout 'Em Aunt Tillie," "S'il Vous Plait" and "Blessed Quietness" -- with plenty of passionate, yet relaxed ensembles (nothing over a medium tempo). Each of the soloists, who include cornetist
Bob Nabors
and clarinetist
Norrie Cox
, are excellent within the boundaries of traditional jazz, and
Katherine Davis
(whose warm voice sometimes recalls
Jeannie Cheatham
) contributes occasional vocals that fit into the spirit of the joyful style. The music is not flawless -- there are a few hesitant moments, and
Cox
occasionally slips out of tune -- but overall, this is an enjoyable set. ~ Scott Yanow