Miff Mole's Molers 1928/30

Other than two titles from July 6, 1928, this LP from the Australian Swaggie label has all of the selections led by top studio trombonist Miff Mole during 1928-30. One of the first trombonists to liberate his instrument from a background percussive role, Mole was a virtuoso with a colorful, if odd style that was soon overshadowed by Jack Teagarden. The 17 selections on this album (which includes five alternate takes) feature such top players as trumpeter Phil Napoleon (cornetist Red Nichols is on the first two numbers), Jimmy Dorsey or Fud Livingston on reeds, pianist Arthur Schutt and sometimes bass saxophonist Adrian Rollini, among others. The arrangements are tricky and unpredictable, adding to the excitement of the intriguing music. Among the better tracks are "Crazy Rhythm," two versions of "That's A Plenty," "After You've Gone" and three renditions of "Navy Blues."