Jazz And Swing On Screen is the fifth release on the Upbeat label for the London Swing Orchestra. It was preceded by The Roaring Twenties, The Swinging Thirties, The Birth Of Swing, and The Rise Of The Crooner. Unlike the previous sets, this one covers a pretty wide period of time, from the 1920s “Charleston” and “The Mooche” to the Bobby Darren hits “Mack The Knife” and “Beyond The Sea.”
While all 20 selections were used in movies somewhere along the way, many of the films cited were actually made a long time after the songs debuted. For a few examples, one does not necessarily associate “It Had To Be You” (which is performed twice with different arrangements) with the 1974 version of The Great Gatsby, “Jeepers Creepers” with the 2001 film of the same name, or “In The Mood” with Woody Allen’s 1987 film Radio Days.
No matter, this project serves as a good excuse for the London Swing Orchestra to revive a variety of fine songs. The 15-piece 9-horn group is directed by Graham Dalby who takes many vocals along the way. Unfortunately no solo credits or (in most cases) mention of the arrangers are included, and there are times when one wishes that the band had more of an opportunity to stretch out,. Seven performances are under three minutes and only two slightly exceed the four-minute mark. On the bright side, the musicians are quite flexible and display th
You've read three articles this month! That makes you one of a rare breed, the true jazz fan!
The Syncopated Times is a monthly publication covering traditional jazz, ragtime and swing. We have the best historic content anywhere, and are the only American publication covering artists and bands currently playing Hot Jazz, Vintage Swing, or Ragtime. Our writers are legends themselves, paid to bring you the best coverage possible. Advertising will never be enough to keep these stories coming, we need your SUBSCRIPTION. Get unlimited access for $30 a year or $50 for two.
Not ready to pay for jazz yet? Register a Free Account for two weeks of unlimited access without nags or pop ups.
Already Registered? Log In
If you shouldn't be seeing this because you already logged in try refreshing the page.