Gene Krupa - Complete Sextet Studio Sessions (2016)

After breaking up his big band in 1950, the world-famous drummer Gene Krupa toured with Jazz at the Philharmonic and led a trio. During 1953-1954 he recorded one septet and two sextet dates for Norman Granz's Clef label, all of which are reissued on this single CD. While Krupa has his solo breaks, the main star throughout is the exciting trumpeter Charlie Shavers, who not only takes witty and chance-taking solos but provided the arrangements and a dozen swing-based originals. Another constant is pianist Teddy Wilson, who is in typically flawless form. The first four selections team Shavers with altoist Willie Smith, the next eight titles have trombonist Bill Harris and tenor saxophonist Ben Webster, and the final six numbers have Harris and the tough tenor of Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis. These formerly rare performances feature all of the all-stars in prime form and clearly inspired by each others' presence, so it is easily recommended to fans of classic small-group swing.