1920-1925

The Benson Orchestra of Chicago were a fine early, hot jazz/dance band. During their first couple of years, pianist Roy Bargy was the band's musical director, a post later taken over by Don Bestor. None of the sidemen ultimately became famous except C-melody saxophonist Frankie Trumbauer, who was with the band during part of 1923-1924; His solo on "I Never Miss the Sunshine (I'm So Used to the Rain)" is one of this disc's high points. Although not a "complete" reissue (and not having any liner notes outside of the discographical details), this CD has 24 of the best selections by the band during their five years of existence, including "Ain't We Got Fun," "Wabash Blues," "Tuck Me to Sleep in My Old 'Tucky Home," "Toot, Toot, Tootsie," "Sobbin' Blues," "Wolverine Blues," "Copenhagen," and "Riverboat Shuffle." Early jazz collectors will definitely want this set.