“My merry Oldsmobile!” As rare as it is to hear that phrase nowadays, is to find an authentic 21st century jazz orchestra, unitedly perfecting the ethereal sensation of dance band music of the late 1920s and early 30s. It’s not exactly about grasping the mere sound of a ’20s dance orchestra, but a specific dreamy, empyrean touch, though untainted by the manipulation of excess reverb. And if there’s an album that attains this phenomenon, it is Mr. Josh Duffee & His Orchestra’s In My Merry Oldsmobile.
Though I might be eighteen years late in writing these thoughts of audio from 2007 and 2008, a renewed recognition is needed to impart upon the recordings of Mr. Josh Duffee & His Orchestra. I am grateful to have discovered the CD at a festival months ago, and to have pleasantly conversed with Mr. Duffee, who brought his ten-piece Graystone Monarchs then. It’s always special to personally meet individuals who contributed to an album, as anecdotal discussions later bring life into the music. Despite its date of production, the recordings of In My Merry Oldsmobile still capture a refreshing sentiment of recency, as well as its premium audio quality!
The sixteen tracks are a fine choice, decorated with a handful of stunning Coon-Sanders Nighthawks, Jean Goldkette, and Fletcher Henderson numbers along with two Boyd Senter compositions, “Tough Break” and “What a Br
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.