Kid Ory - Kid Ory's Creole Jazz Band (1991)

Although some Kid Ory fans might disagree, the veteran trombonist led his finest bands (at least the ones that recorded) in the 1950s. The one heard on this CD is really quite definitive, featuring the brilliant ensemble player (and distinctive soloist) Alvin Alcorn on trumpet, the talented clarinetist George Probert, and an excellent rhythm section (pianist Don Ewell, guitarist Bill Newman, bassist Ed Garland, and drummer Minor Hall). Their versions on this set of "That's A-Plenty," "Gettysburg March," "Clarinet Marmalade," and even "When the Saints Go Marching In" are true classics of New Orleans jazz. This joyous and exciting music is essential for all serious jazz collections.