Formed on May 5, 1945, just a few days before the official end of WWII, the Dutch Swing College Band is still playing all these years later. Given this longevity, along with extensive touring, there cannot be too many followers of Dixieland jazz who have not heard of them, especially in the U.K. or European countries. Of course, the band has undergone many changes of personnel over the years, but their “sound” has not changed drastically, as one can hear from the selections on this disc.
The tracks come from several occasions, and there are inevitable changes in ambience, recording techniques, and personnel. Volume levels vary somewhat from track to track, so adjusting becomes necessary on occasion. Regrettably, no information is given as to where the recordings took place or who was on them, but one can hear a variety of reeds—sometimes the line-up containing more than one reed.
Ever since its inception the band has always been well rehearsed and blessed with excellent musicians, not to mention good arrangers. The result is polished performances like those of some other bands of this genre, such as the Dukes of Dixieland or the Chris Barber Big Band. One can come to the album knowing what to expect once one is familiar with the band, and this recording will not disappoint.
The Dutch Swing College band has always enjoyed immense popularity. It is by no means a New Orlea
