A Recorded Documentary 1933-1941

This hard-to-find double LP from the collectors label Meritt has a great deal of valuable material. Allen and a variety of All-Stars are heard on previously unissued alternate takes by Fletcher Henderson's Orchestra in 1933 (including a version of "King Porter Stomp"), bands led by trombonist Benny Morton, clarinetist Buster Bailey and blues singer Victoria Spivey in 1937 and a few numbers with singers Ruby Smith and Ida Cox. In addition, the complete Red Allen sessions of April 17 and July 22, 1941 (including all alternate takes and breakdowns) wrap up the two-fer with many fine solos from trombonist J.C. Higginbotham, clarinetist Edmond Hall and pianist Ken Kersey. Vintage jazz collectors and Red Allen fans are advised to search for this memorable set of heated swing music.