Gene Krupa & Harry James - Complete Capitol Recordings of Gene Krupa & Harry James (1999)

Big bands were on their way out by the late '40s, which left bandleaders and musicians who had played swing in a quandary: embrace bebop or become a nostalgia act. Certain wise musicians like Gene Krupa and Harry James, however, found a middle course by modernizing swing with new arrangements and selling it to ballroom dancers. The Complete Capitol Recordings of Gene Krupa and Harry James collects a multitude of splendid performances from both players as they transitioned from one era to the next. The four Krupa discs were recorded in 1946-1947 during the drummer/leader's successful comeback following a drug conviction. His band averaged around 17 pieces during these sessions, and occasionally featured vocalists Caroline Grey and Buddy Stewart. The band covers everything from bouncy straight-ahead swing like "Indiana" to tender ballads like "How Deep Is the Ocean." Of special interest are a number of stripped-down tracks, including "Body and Soul" and "Limehouse Blues," that feature Krupa, saxophonist Charlie Ventura, and pianist Teddy Napoleon. The three James discs were recorded between 1955 and 1958 and find the semi-reclusive trumpeter returning to the limelight. Married to Betty Grable and living in California, he had been perfectly content to perform locally. In the mid-'50s, however, his contract with Columbia ran out, giving him a chance to make another start. The first dozen cuts feature a large band with strings, providing James' horn with a plush background to play against. Guest vocalists Helen Forrest and Bob Marlo also help out here, offering fine renditions of "I've Heard That Song Before" and "My Silent Love." James's favorite drummer, Buddy Rich, also makes several appearances. Overall, The Complete Capitol Recordings of Gene Krupa and Harry James is an excellent collection that will please fans of both players and that will be a special joy to anyone who appreciates good swing.