One of the first albums ever cut as a leader by trombonist Frank Rosolino – a hip set issued under the
Stan Kenton Presents banner for Capitol in the mid 50s – but done in a smaller combo mode than you'd hear with
Stan! The setting provides a great showcase for the emerging solo talents of Rosolino on trombone – a player with a soulful swing that get way past his goofy image on the cover – and which is set up here in the company of some great collaborators who include Charlie Mariano on alto sax – playing so strongly, the album might well include him as a co-leader – plus piano from either Claude Williamson or Pete Jolly, trumpet from Sam Noto, bass from Max Bennett or Curtis Counce, and drums from Mel Lewis or
Stan Levey. There's not only a lot of
Kenton influence in the players, but a lot of Bethlehem Records styles as well – a reference that definitely shapes the sound of this set, and makes it a strong one for any fan of 50s work on that label – or Mode Records as well. Titles are a mix of
standards and originals – and include "Ragamuffin", "Linda", "Carioca", "Besame Mucho", "Yo Yo", and "Freckles".
(Early 80s UK Affinity pressing. Cover has light wear and a small yellowed sticker spot.)