Personnel includes: Louis Armstrong (vocals, trumpet); Jack Teagarden (vocals, trombone); Jimmie Rodgers (vocal, guitar); Edgar Sampson (alto saxophone, violin); Budd Johnson, Peanuts Hucko (tenor saxophone, clarinet); Bobby Hackett (cornet); Kid Ory, Vic Dickenson (trombone); Barney Bigard (clarinet); Teddy Wilson, Leonard Feather, Charlie Beal (piano); John Trueheart, Allan Reuss (guitar); Mike McKendrick (banjo, dobro); Bill Oldham, Red Callender, Arvell Shaw (bass); Chick Webb, Zutty Singleton, Sid Catlett, Yank Porter (drums).
Esquire All-American 1946 Award Winners: Louis Armstrong (vocals, trumpet); Johnny Hodges (alto saxophone); Don Byas (tenor saxophone); Jimmy Hamilton (clarinet); Charlie Shavers, Neal Hefti (trumpet); Billy Strayhorn, Duke Ellington (piano); Remo Palmieri (guitar); Chubby Jackson (bass); Sonny Greer (drums).
Recorded between 1932 and 1956. Includes liner notes by Dan Morgenstern.
Digitally remastered by Dennis Ferrante (1996, BMG Studios, New York, New York.)
This 4-disc box covers Armstrong's two encounters with RCA/Victor. The first discs date from 1932 and 1933, a time when the trumpeter/singer was probably at the height of his powers. Backed by a 12-piece band, Armstrong gives rousing renditions of "I've Got The World On A String" and a re-recording of his classic "Basin Street Blues," featuring a wonderful scat vocal and a superb trumpet solo. The third and fourth discs cover recording dates in 1946 and 1947. These sessions, a handful of which are taken from live performances, feature some of Louis' best-known sidemen, as well as guest appearances by the likes of Kid Ory, Johnny Hodges and Duke Ellington. There are popular film tunes like "Pennies From Heaven" and Armstrong originals such as "Back O' Town Blues" and the wonderful "Some Day You'll Be Sorry."
Satch's performances are stellar throughout (the awesome tone, range and attack of his horn are as strong here as ever). Collectors will be interested in the rare alternate takes, the lengthy session notes, and hard-to-find treasures like the "comedy" cut "Laughin' Louis." A total of four hours of music, this is one of the definitive Armstrong sets, essential for collectors and a delightful introduction for beginners. minimize